Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Bridesmaid Advice


A bridesmaid is first and foremost someone who the bride wants to be a part of her wedding. Perhaps she is a sister, or a very close friend; her friendship and support of the marriage is meaningful. 

More than that, a bridesmaid and/or maid-of-honor serves a practical purpose. During the hectic time of planning a wedding, she is a confidant, advice giver, doer of menial tasks, errand runner and more. A bride should have at least one bridesmaid (preferably the maid-of-honor) who is reliable, cheerfully helpful, organized, and who lives close to the bride. 

A bridesmaid's duties might include:

  • helping the bride shop for her dress and bridesmaids’ dresses
  • when asked, giving advice on decorations, favors, music, and more
  • helping the maid of honor to plan a bridal shower, and, if appropriate, chipping in for the costs of food, decorations, or venue
  • helping to plan a bachelorette party (this the bridesmaids may pay for or split the cost with the other attendees)
  • helping the bride dress (and stay calm) before the ceremony
  • providing moral support at all times
  • telling others where the couple is registered and other details, such as when they will return from their honeymoon, where to send gifts, and any name changes.
  • being useful at the wedding reception. The couple may ask you to help direct guests to the guestbook, assist with a special moment, make sure that vendors have arrived, or do crisis management. You might also want to stick around after the reception and make sure things are cleaned up and wedding presents secured.
  • being social. Be sure to talk to as many guests as you can, making them feel warmly welcomed. If there's a dance floor, help get the party going!
  • consider throwing (or helping to pitch in for) a day-after brunch. These events are great to help the couple catch up with out-of-town guests, and have a more relaxed environment to socialize in.

A good bridesmaid also makes sure she is helpful rather than a hindrance. This means being where she needs to be, on time, ordering her bridesmaid dress at the right time, and not badmouthing the bride behind her back. 



http://weddings.about.com/cs/weddingparty/a/bridesmaid.htm
By Nina Callaway,

Will the Hurricane Cause More Weddings?



Obviously, natural disasters like hurricanes have very few bright spots. But in the midst of destruction and chaos, they do tend to bring people together, and remind all of us about what's really important.  When Hurricane Katrina struck, after days of reading horror stories, it was amazing to hear some news of folks finding love in the wreckage. But even when a storm isn't as deadly as Katrina, it often leads to love thanks to all that time being cooped up together.  You can use this time to have a romantic night at home with an indoor picnic, a spa night, or practicing for your wedding night. And of course a hurricane marriage proposal will always be a fun story to tell. Do your disaster preparedness plans include preparing for romance?



By Nina Callaway
http://weddings.about.com/b/2012/10/29/will-the-hurricane-cause-more-weddings.htm

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Modern wedding etiquette



Who foots the bill? Should I invite children? Keep relationships intact with these solutions to the most pressing etiquette dilemmas.

1. Uninvited guests 
While most of us would consider showing up to a formal event uninvited the ultimate social faux pas, there are others who are not so fazed. The intention is usually harmless enough – a friend assuming they can bring a date, or an extended family member who assumes their invite got lost it the mail (it does happen). Thankfully, though, there are some easy steps you can take to avoid an awkward situation on your big day without offending your loved ones. The best way to make your intentions clear is on the RSVP card: include each guest’s full name, with an ‘attending’ or ‘not attending’ option they can tick. Don’t allow guests to write in their own names – often something as simple as providing a dotted line for people to write on can lead to additional guests. If all else fails and you receive a pre-wedding phone call from a friend enquiring about your guest list, politely inform them that you have already confirmed and paid for the final number of guests and the venue is unable to provide additional seating and meals on short notice. If they still don’t take the hint, the ‘we’re on a tight budget’ and ‘we really wanted a very small gathering’ lines never fail to give over-eager wannabe-guests the friendly boot out the door. 

2. Footing the bill 
The days when a couple’s wedding day marked their first day of cohabitation are long gone. The number of couples living together before marriage is on the rise and, unsurprisingly, so are those paying for their own weddings. Nowadays we’re much more likely to move in with our squeeze before marriage and to have already been coughing up the cash for our own living expenses, so it’s really a natural progression to pay for our own wedding day, too. That said, there are still plenty of people who follow tradition. The bride’s parents may pay for the day or you may find it’s a combined effort between both sets of parents. With this approach it’s worth bearing in mind that the degree of control you have over the day is usually reflective of your financial contribution. This is particularly important if you’re not willing to compromise aspects of your day. Basically if you pay, you can have your way! 
3. Smother-in-Law 
It’s every bride’s worst nightmare: having your wedding day hijacked by another woman. But it’s not the saucy receptionist at your fiancĂ©’s office that you need to be looking out for – it’s your prospective mother-in-law. The best way to put an interfering mother-in-law back in her place without causing unnecessary tension between the two of you or affecting your relationship with your husband-to-be, is to allocate her jobs. Providing her with specific tasks during the planning of your wedding will allow her to feel involved without having the room to take over everything. If she starts trying to control other elements of your day, politely tell her that while you value and appreciate her input, you already have that part of the day under control and hopefully she’ll get the hint without being overly offended. It’s also important to acknowledge her interest and input if she shows it so that you have her on-side. That way, she’ll be more likely to respect your wishes when you politely turn down her offer to make pink taffeta dresses for the bridesmaids! 

4. Happy bridesmaids 
A wedding is a day of love and celebration, but it can also be a day when your closest friends are fantasising about using the unflattering outfit you made them squeeze into as your murder weapon. It may be even worse if you also made them cough up the cash for that frock. It’s always a tricky situation, navigating who pays for what when it comes to your bridal party expenses. While some brides might pay for their bridesmaid dresses and hair and have them wear their own shoes, others may ask that they pay for the lot. But if you don’t want to put your closest friends off-side in the process of planning one of the happiest days of your life, try employing a bit of compromise. If your budget is tight and you can’t afford to pay for their dresses, don’t ask them to buy something that is extravagant and unlikely to be worn again. Also, have them involved in the decision process as much as possible and agree on something they can get more than one wear out of, like a cocktail-style dress. Show them your thanks by buying their accessories, which can also function as bridal party gifts on the day. 

5. Gift registry & wishing-well 
Whether you’ve chosen a registry or a wishing well, the key to success is subtlety. Be discreet. Rather than including your full gift registry list with the invite, try a business-size card with a link to the list on the relevant website or the store details. And, when choosing gifts, ensure you select items in a wide price range – while some guests might want to spoil you with something lavish, keep in mind that others will be on a budget. As a general rule, select items around the $50 mark, then move up in $50 increments to a price that you think is affordable for your guests (some might buy a gift together). Having more items on the list than you have guests will ensure everyone has several options. If you’ve decided on a wishing well, include a small card letting guests know you’ll be having one and make sure you word it so they know they don’t have to give cash if they don’t want to. A cute and popular poem to use is: ‘Most things we need we’ve already got and in our house we can’t fit a lot, so a donation to our wishing-well would be great, but only if you want to participate!’ 

6. Speech frenzy 
If given the choice, most of us would rather take our chances out in the woods with a wild bear than take to the mic in front of a crowd. So it’s not surprising most wedding speech line-ups include boozy speakers, inappropriate jokes and boring drone. If you want to avoid having to employ an oversized hook to yank your dad off the stage, you’ll need to be prepared. Ensure all of your speakers have a minimum of a month’s notice to prepare and respectfully accept anyone’s decision to decline to speak – forcing people to speak when they are uncomfortable will most often end in an awkward situation at the reception and at least one very unhappy and embarrassed wedding guest. If you have concerns about speakers using their toast to spill their life story, put a time limit in place – one minute is usually enough time to say a few meaningful words and make a toast. Also, try to avoid having more than four people speak in a row or you may start to notice a few eyes glaze over. 

7. The guest list
Deciding who makes the cut can make you feel a little like you’re on the judging panel of a reality TV show – it requires a certain degree of ruthlessness and the ability to balance firmness with fairness. It can be even trickier once the invitations have gone out and two of your co-workers realise they’re the only ones in the office not invited. However, there are some simple things you can do to prevent hurt feelings and awkward moments when it comes to deciding who makes your list. Be discreet with the invitations – definitely don’t hand out invites in person if you want to avoid red faces, and mention to your work invitees that not everyone in the office is invited due to number restrictions, so you’d rather avoid discussing it at work. The same goes for friends – while you shouldn’t be deceptive and hide your wedding, you probably shouldn’t brag about how great it’s going to be either. Instead, briefly mention you’re getting married and leave it at that. Keep lively discussions about your big day for the company of those who are invited and won’t feel left out. Don’t feel bad for not being able to invite everyone – you have to draw the line somewhere. Just be clear about where that is and stick to it. If you’ve decided not to invite dates and only long-term partners, then try not to make exceptions or you could confuse some guests 

8. Never work with children or animals 
Crying babies and noisy tots aren’t for everyone and if you’ve decided to make your day an adults-only affair, you need to make it clear to your guests. Some people prefer to include a brief note at the bottom of the invitation while others like to chat to guests with kids to let them know they’ll have to make alternative arrangements for the little ones. Providing you are polite, most guests will be accepting of your wishes. Include details of a few local babysitters on the accommodation card with your invite as a subtle way of letting guests know you’re having a child-free event. Do be prepared though, that despite your best efforts, some guests may still show up with children on the day. It is impolite and inconvenient, but minor in the big scheme of things. With any luck, they’ll be the first ones to leave your reception when the kids become tired! 

9. Musical chairs 
Just thinking about a reception seating plan is enough to give most couples a headache, especially when you have family feuds, divorced couples and warring friends to deal with. But before you reach for the Aspirin, remember that the majority of your guests will respect your special day and act appropriately no matter where you seat them. If you want to try your best to get it right, simply talking to a few of your invitees during the planning process can be a great way of sussing out who is getting along with who. A never-fail approach to seating plans is to group people according to demographic – in other words, seat younger people with other younger people and singles with other singles – the more people have in common, the more likely they are to hit it off. If the thought of all of this is still making your head spin, take relief in knowing you don’t absolutely have to have a seating plan. An increasing number of couples are opting for cocktail party receptions with relaxed seating. Think bar stools, cocktail tables, lounges and guests mingling with who they want and sitting where they like. Now there’s a solution everyone will be happy with! 

10. Saying thank you 
Never let a wedding gift go unappreciated – a bride should never truly underestimate the importance of a thankyou card. Take the time to write something thoughtful and send your cards by snail-mail. Don’t think it’s ok to just say thanks on the day or shoot off an email – guests expect a formal thank you and it goes a long way to showing them their gift was really appreciated (even if it was a bright orange toaster you’ve already stashed away in the back of the cupboard). Get your thankyou cards out in a timely manner, within three months after your wedding is acceptable, although within a month is ideal. Handwritten thankyou cards are a lovely personal touch but if your guest list was huge, then a generic card with a personal signature from both of you is sufficient. Take the time to put together a generic message that you can have printed on the cards – a good thankyou message should acknowledge how much everyone’s contribution meant to you. A picture of you and your guests at the wedding is also a great way to personalise the cards if you don’t have the time to handwrite them – many relatives will also appreciate a wedding photo.


Money mistakes couples make


 Here are some of the big mistakes couples can make:

Poor communication. 
It's important to talk about money early and often with a significant other. Talking early and often about spending concerns and progress toward your goals is important for any relationship.

Keeping secrets. 
Many spouses hide purchases from each other. Some are small, some are big, but any of them can be an unpleasant surprise on the bank statement. For some couples this means separate bank accounts, or setting limits on what each can spend without asking the other. 


No budget. 
It's hard enough keeping track of our own spending without a budget, but virtually impossible when there's another spender whose actions you don't know about. A budget has advantages beyond pinpointing where we overspend. It keeps both parties on the same page, can be used to start and maintain discussions about money, and provides a reality-based foundation for those talks where emotions (and accusations) can otherwise run rampant.

Ignoring differences. 
As the saying goes, opposites attract. This can be true with spending styles too. Some people are successful savers while others rack up debt and don't worry about the consequences until it's too late. Some are terrified of investments, while others are willing to take big risks for potentially big rewards. The easiest thing to do is simply let your partner spend the way he or she wants, but it's not the smartest.

Bottom line? There's no one right way to approach money and marriage. But there's definitely a wrong one: not talking about it.


Marriage makes people richer.


Not all marriages, of course, and "richer" is relative. But overall, people who get married and stay married build significantly more wealth than single folks:

The median net worth of married-couple households in a 2002 Census Bureau wealth study was $101,975. For single men, median wealth was $23,700. For single women, $20,217.


A 15-year study of 9,000 people found that, during that time, people who married and stayed married built up nearly twice the net worth of people who stayed single. Even when all other factors are held constant -- stuff like income and education -- just the fact that they were married contributed to a 4% annual rise in these couples' wealth.

Wealth declines typically started four years before a divorce was final, and the breakup ultimately reduced the typical person's net worth by 77% of that of the average single person.


How couples split their finances:



  • 33%: Maintain separate bank accounts and/or credit cards
  • 34%: Keep either a bank account or credit card separate to their partner’s
  • 36%: Share both a bank account and/or credit card with their other half
  • 32%: Have independent spending money but a joint account for household expenses
Source: PayPal survey 2010

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Elegance is what sets us apart…


Beautiful… (pic)


How to Compromise



Compromise – no matter how difficult – is a necessary part of any successful, enduring marriage. For two people to work together as a team, each member must give and take once in a while. But many of us have no idea how to compromise. You’re probably used to making decisions that satisfy you and you alone. Once you commit to marriage, you must consider the needs, wants, and happiness of your husband or wife. That means being willing to compromise. Here is a step-by-step guide to the art of compromise:

1. Communicate your needs and wants.
Use "I" statements to communicate to your spouse exactly what you need or want in the relationship. For example, you might say, "I want to live in the city because it's closer to my work, which will cut down on my commute, and I like the excitement of it, whereas I'm bored here in the suburbs." Or you could say, "I feel ready to start trying to have kids because we're married, financially stable, and my biological clock is ticking." What's important here is to speak for yourself only without making assumptions about your spouse's needs or wants and to express what you want and why. Also, you must refrain from attacking your spouse with demands. You have to realize you might not get everything for which you ask.

2. Listen to your husband or wife.

After you’ve expressed your desires and offered an explanation of why this is important to you, then you have to give your spouse a chance to respond. You must not interrupt and allow him or her to speak. Really pay attention to what he or she is saying. After he or she finishes responding, then you should repeat what you heard to make sure you’re understanding him or her. You might say, “So, you’re saying that you would rather live in the suburbs close to the city because your work is here and the city is too loud and chaotic for you, right?” You must do this without sarcasm and with a steady tone. This is a discussion and not an argument. You want to show your spouse that you appreciate and value his or her needs and wants, too.


3. Carefully weigh your options.

Consider all your options. You could live in the city. You could live in the suburbs. Or you could live in a suburb closer to the city that has high-rise apartments and enough public transportation to allow you to have the best of both worlds. In this case, before drawing these conclusions, you could look at your budget and the cost of living in both the city and suburbs. Consider your options both as individuals and a couple. Remember, in the end, you have to think about the decision as though you are part of a pair and not just for yourself. If you were single and wanted to live in the city, of course, you could just do that. But you’re married and there’s another person involved in this decision.


4. Put yourself in your spouse’s shoes.

Truly understanding your spouse is difficult, especially when your own wants and needs cloud your judgment. That’s why it is all the more important for you to step out of your own mind for a moment, and consider your spouse’s opinions and feelings. How would your husband or wife be affected if he or she just gave in to you? What would be the positives and negatives for him or her? Why do you think he or she holds a different opinion? What kind of sacrifices would your husband or wife be making if he or she went along with your ideas? Let your spouse know what responses you come up with to these questions. Show them some empathy.


5. Consider fairness.

For compromise in a marriage to work, one person cannot always be the doormat. In other words, you can’t always get your way, and your spouse can’t always give into you and your needs. Also, you have to consider the fairness of each decision. If you move to the city, you might have an easier commute and be happier in the fast-paced lifestyle. But will your spouse’s commute double? Will he or she be put out by the frenetic life? Is that fair to him or her?


6. Make a decision – and stick with it.

After you have weighed your options and considered your spouse’s feelings and the fairness of the situation, you must make a decision together and stick with it. If you have been completely honest while undertaking all the other steps, you should come to a resolution that works for both of you. And there should be no wishy washiness about the decision for either party.


7. Check in with each other.

When there’s give and take in a relationship, one or both of you is likely making a sacrifice or giving up something he or she wanted or needed. If this happens often, you or your spouse could start to feel taken for granted or ignored. This can cause resentment to build, which can break down a marriage. Check in with one another to make sure there is no resentment or hurt feelings. Make sure when you agree to a compromise that you will not hold this sacrifice over your spouse’s head, doubt your decision, or stew about it. You have to make the decision, stick with it, and move forward in a positive light.


http://newlyweds.about.com/od/gettingalong/tp/How-To-Compromise.htm

Guests: what not to wear to a wedding



Our top five things to remember when dressing for a wedding.

We all know that the bride-to-be will have spent hours working out what she is going to wear to her big day, so it’s best that your attire doesn’t attract the wrong kind of attention.
We get asked all the time if there are any rules for what guests can and can’t wear to a wedding. Sometimes there are and sometime there aren’t. It all depends on the wedding. So here we have narrowed it down to the top 5 things to remember.

1.    Avoid wearing white
Unless specified on the invitation, do not wear white. There is only one person at a wedding that should be wearing a white dress and that is the bride. Obviously if you know the bride well and she says it’s fine, then it is. However unless you are specifically told it is OK, we suggest avoiding white.

2.    Read the invitation
You’d be surprised how many people don’t take notice of any dress codes specified on the invite. If the bride and groom have taken the time to offer a dress code, then it’s obviously for a reason. Make sure you read and take note. If you’re unsure what ‘smart casual’ or ‘cocktail’ entails, ask your friends, anyone else you know attending and Google it! Don’t be shy, it’s better to ask than turn up in inappropriate attire, or be only guest not wearing a hat (remember the uproar when British Prime Minister, David Cameron's, wife didn't wear a hat to the royal wedding).

3.    Wear appropriate shoes
There is nothing more unattractive than a guest who can’t walk in their shoes. Therefore, nothing too high (unless you’re a natural), and nothing too uncomfortable. Make sure you have taken note of the wedding location. If it is a beach wedding, we strongly suggest flats or an appropriate wedge. Stilettos and sand do not mix! Similarly if it is a garden wedding, bear in mind you will be spending a lot of time on grass and soil. And don’t forget you need to be prepared for any kind of weather.

4.    Avoid anything too short or too low cut
This is generally never a good look, so it definitely isn’t one at a wedding. And this may be stating the obvious but under no circumstances should you go for short and low cut at the same time! Short dresses can definitely be appropriate but by short we mean above the knee or mid-thigh and if choosing the latter ensure the event does not state black tie or full length gowns.

5.    Dress appropriately for religious buildings and places of worship
Either your connection with the bride and groom, or the wedding invitation, should give you a clear idea as to whether the event will be held in a religious building. If so, make note of the religion and any associated dress codes. Chances are if this is the case, a dress code will be stated on the invite, however if it’s not, make sure you double check or look it up online. Certain places of worship have strict rules and guidelines as to what can be worn inside, such as covered shoulders.

Do you want to win a free photo shoot?


The 5 Surprising Skin Culprits Sabotaging Your Wedding Day Glow




If you have a wedding coming up, you've probably spent the past few months doing everything to get your skin in tiptop shape for the big day. You've washed, you've moisturized, you've slept a full eight hours, you've even splurged on expensive facial treatments involving bizarre ingredients. So, come time to walk down the aisle, why does your complexion appear drab and dull, not radiant and glowing like you had envisioned? Or even worse, why is there a cluster of fresh new pimples staring back at you in the mirror? The possible culprit to your skincare blues (or reds) may come as a surprise. And we're not talking about the usual suspects (i.e. dirty makeup brushes, stress, and hair products). 

Here are the five surprising "skinemies" possibly responsible for your lack of wedding day luster:

1. Water.
It may seem shocking, but the water you use to wash your skin may be responsible for your broken-out or less-than-vibrant skin. Unfiltered water is full of metals and other organic materials that can react poorly with skin, causing it to breakout. Additionally, "hard water" (the stuff that leaves the white residue on your shower door) may be creating dulling and pore-clogging buildup on your face! Try washing with distilled or purified water instead and see how soft and smooth your skin feels.

2. Accessories. 
Our cell phones, sunglasses, and even our jewelry can act as a carrier for acne-causing bacteria. Dead skin cells, dirt, and oils build up on these items over time, so it is so important to frequently wipe them clean. Pay attention to where your breakouts are located; they can point you to the likely culprit (i.e. pimples at the bridge of your nose = sunglasses).

3. Exfoliation
You are probably scratching your head, saying, "Hey, I thought exfoliation was a good thing." Well, you'd be right. Exfoliation, when done properly (one to two times a week), can keep skin smooth, soft, and luminescent. However, wrong exfoliation or overdone exfoliation can irritate complexions or strip skin of its natural oils. Steer clear of harsh scrubs, made from ingredients like apricot kernels, which can create microscopic nicks in the skin and actually roughen your complexion over time. Instead, look for a scrub made from seeds or beads, or when in doubt, just opt for a naturally exfoliating fruit enzyme like pumpkin (you'll see the results immediately).

4. Foaming wash. 
Instinctually we are drawn to that super sudsy wash we associate with clean. However, be mindful of what is creating those suds in your cleanser because it just may be breaking you out. Foaming ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and its sisters have been reported as being highly irritating and even acne-causing for many individuals. Just because it is foaming, doesn't mean it is working. Always check the label and research the ingredients inside.

5. Oil-free. 
Despite common thought, saying "no" to oils is not always the wisest choice. Sure, some oils will clog pores and those we definitely want to keep away from. However, "essential oils" are, well, essential. In fact, these essential oils can treat a wide array of skin ailments from acne to pigmentation to scarring, not to mention make your skin glow like never before. Look for lavender oil for acne-prone skin, lemon oil for pigmented skin, and chamomile oil for irritated skin. There is an essential oil for nearly every skin issue. The best part: They are safer to use than chemical ingredients, and they are extra-nourishing.

Being aware of these possible stealth skin saboteurs will get you one step closer to your dream wedding, glowing skin and all.


Monday, October 22, 2012

Look what we do…(pic)


Wedding Ring Ceremony Vows


It is traditional for a couple to exchange wedding rings after they say their vows. Since these rings are symbols of the marriage, the words said during a ring exchange should reflect the couple's hopes for their marriage. These words may be simply incorporated into the wedding vows, or treated as a separate ritual. Here is some example wording to use during your ring exchange or ring ceremony: 

Secular/Non Denominational Vows for the Ring Exchange

  • I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness. As I place it on your finger, I commit my heart and soul to you. I ask you to wear this ring as a reminder of the vows we have spoken today, our wedding day.

  • This ring is a token of my love. I marry you with this ring, with all that I have and all that I am Response: I will forever wear this ring as a sign of my commitment and the desire of my heart

  • I give you this ring to wear with love and joy. As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you. I choose you to be my (wife / husband) this day and forevermore.
  • This ring I give to you as a token of my love and devotion to you. I pledge to you all that I am and all that I will ever be as your (husband/wife). With this ring, I gladly marry you and join my life to yours.

  • I give this ring as my gift to you. Wear it and think of me and know that I love you.

  • I give you this ring in God's name, as a symbol of all that we have promised and all that we shall share.
  • I give you this ring as a visible and constant symbol of my promise to be with you as long as I live.

  • I give you this ring as a symbol of my love for you. Let it be a reminder that I am always by your side and that I will always be a faithful partner to you. 
  • I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, my faith in our strength together, and my covenant to learn and grow with you

  • Let this ring be a symbol of my promises to you and a reminder of my devotion to you. I am honored to call you my (wife/husband).

  • With this ring, I thee wed, and with it, I bestow upon thee all the treasures of my mind, heart, and hands. 

  • (Name), I give you this ring as a symbol of my love. As it encircles your finger, may it remind you always that you are surrounded by my enduring love. Response: I will wear it gladly. Whenever I look at it, I will remember this joyous day and the vows we've made. 

  • I have for you a golden ring. The most precious metal symbolizes that your love is the most precious element in my life. The ring has no beginning and no ending, which symbolizes that the love between us will never cease. I place it on your finger as a visible sign of the vows which have made us husband and wife. 
  • Because this ring is perfectly symmetrical, it signifies the perfection of true love. As I place it on your finger, I give you all that I am and ever hope to be. Response: Because this ring has no end or beginning, it signifies the continuation of true love. As I place it on your finger, I give you all that I am and ever hope to be.


Top 5 Wedding Gift Ideas



1. Money – 
Yes it's true; while it may seem impersonal or uncreative, money is my number one recommended wedding gift. Most young couples are saving for something big – a house, a car, a piece of furniture, or are still paying back their student loans. Money may also help them have an extra-special honeymoon or let them order that extra photo for their album. While it's rude for a couple to ask for money, it is never rude to give cash. If you still want to give a personal wedding gift, combine the two: attach a check to a beautiful picture frame, a kitchen gadget, or a long letter detailing your wishes and advice for their marriage. 

2. An expensive item off of their registry – 
Often the more-expensive items on a couple's registry are dream wedding gifts that they don't think they're actually going to get. Whether you're wealthy enough to buy such a wedding gift on your own, or you organize other guests to all chip in, you'll be making dreams come true. 

3. A luxurious hotel room for their first night as a married couple – 
Start their marriage off right by giving them a night to remember before they take off for their honeymoon. Check with the bride's mother or the maid-of-honor to ensure reservations have not already been made, and give your gift early so that they'll be able to include it in their plans. If you know the couple well, be cheeky by printing out my top tips for wedding night success. 

4. A wedding gift to stand the test of time – 
Whether it's a bottle of scotch or fine wine with instructions to open on their tenth anniversary, a gorgeous vase, or piece of art, give a gift on which the couple will be able to look fondly and say "Our friend John gave us that for our wedding." Other ideas include the couple's wedding invitation in a beautiful frame, a handmade quilt or tablecloth, or an antique piece of furniture. 

5. Make their honeymoon extra sweet - 
If you've ever been to the place where the couple is honeymooning, use that knowledge to get them a gift certificate for your favorite restaurant or resort activity. You could also upgrade their plane tickets to first class, give them a camera to help them take great pictures, or give them some spending money tucked inside a guidebook of the area.




Monday, October 15, 2012

We are your best choice!


Designer Wedding Dresses from the Runway: Find Your Perfect Gown Now!

200 Designer Wedding Dresses from the Runway: Find Your Perfect Gown Now! Oscar de la Renta Oscar de la Renta Oscar de la Renta Oscar de la Renta Oscar de la Renta Oscar de la Renta Vera Wang Rosa ClaraRosa Clara

http://www.ivillage.com/200-best-designer-wedding-dresses-2012/5-b-316093

Look the Mistakes Newlyweds Make


Rushing into having children
Some couples don’t give themselves enough time to be married to each other. If you can wait to have children, you should consider it because you’ll never have this time alone again. Once children arrive, they will have to be the focus of your attention. Your heart certainly has room for children and a spouse, but you should spoil one another while you can.

Going into debt
Starting off your marriage with bills you can’t afford is a terrible beginning. It’s an additional strain on your relationship that you can't afford. If you are already in debt, make a plan for getting rid of it. Stay on budget, get your finances in order, and you’ll probably fight less. If nothing else, you’ll sleep better at night.

Having unrealistic expectations about marriage
If you think marriage is always a walk in the park, you have another thing coming. There will be hard times. It takes a while to get the hang of living with this other person and making the relationship work. Don’t think that the problems you had before you walked down the aisle are simply going to disappear because you’re married. They won’t. Some problems never will go away. It’s how you deal with them that counts.

Letting resentment build
Never let things fester. If something is really bothering you, say so. If you find you’re the only one doing things around the house and that upsets you, don’t do it anymore. The worst thing you can do is allow resentment for your spouse to build inside you. It tears apart your love.

Being insensitive to your spouse’s feelings
We’re all different. We all react differently to various situations. In time, you will learn to anticipate some of your spouse’s reactions. Don’t make light of them. Don’t judge them. Simply accept them and do what you can to comfort your spouse in the way that he or she needs to be comforted.

Making decisions without consulting your spouse
There are two people in your relationship. When you were single you might have made decisions about where to go after work, what vacations to take, how to spend your money, without discussing it with anyone. Now, however, your decisions have an impact on your spouse, too. He or she has a right to have input in these decisions.

Being intolerant of your spouse’s quirks or differences
When you marry someone, you are accepting him or her warts and all. It’s not fair – nor is it worth the time and energy – to get angry about things like your spouse’s slight lisp or his Republican leanings.

Taking your partner for granted
Remembering all the reasons you love your spouse and appreciating the little things he or she does for you and your family takes some work. But it’s an integral part of building a strong marriage. Once you start to forget or simply expect your spouse to do certain things for you, he or she may feel unappreciated and you could start having problems.

Abandoning your sex life
Marriage does not have to mean the end to good sex. It is part of your job as married people to maintain your sexual health, keep things interesting, and make sure you and your spouse are satisfied. When problems do arise, you should address them and do what you can to improve the situation.


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Friday, October 12, 2012

Anne Hathaway's Wedding Dress: Get the Look


Picture of Anne Hathaway's wedding dress
When it was announced that Valentino would design Anne Hathaway's wedding dress, all we could do was wait impatiently on the edge of our seats for the big-day reveal. And the knowledge that Valentino came out of retirement—he stopped designing for his fashion house in 2008—to pay tribute to his muse ("She's like my daughter!" he has said) only made the wait more unbearable.

On September 29th, Anne Hathaway wed Adam Shulman in a sunset ceremony in California's scenic Big Sur. From what we can tell from the fuzzy, albeit stunning, photos—leave it to Anne Hathaway to look this gorgeous even out of focus—the gown features a gauzy, tulle overskirt and an elegant off-the-shoulder-neckline fashioned from the same fabric. Here, 5 similar wedding dress styles.

Open-Back Wedding Dresses from Spring 2013


The recessional is just as dramatic of a moment on your wedding day as the grand entrance. Make every angle count with a dress that's both flattering from the front and behind—if not more so. Lace-trimmed keyholes, for one, felt fresh this season as an updated outlook on showing off a little skin.


      





HONEYMOON IN ISTANBUL !


Calling all culture vultures: If you want a city honeymoon that's a little unexpected, consider traveling to Istanbul. This exotic hotspot at the crossroads of Asia and Europe has fabulous, over-the-top hotels, and enough sights and sounds to keep newlyweds busy for at least a week. Here, five things to do:

Stay in a former prison! 

Fun location alert: The 65-room, three-story Four Seasons Sultanhamet (above) was actually once a jail. A hundred years on, it's a posh hotel with soaring arches and dramatic stairways, and rooms that overlook a quiet courtyard or the world-famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia (more on those to come). Grab two glasses of champagne in the glass-enclosed courtyard after sightseeing. Doubles from $519.


Have a spa day at a hammam. 
The ritual of a thorough scrub, massage, and soak in healing waters at a hamman (Turkish bathhouse) is an ancient, local tradition. Commissioned by royalty in 1556, the popular Ayasofya Baths (above) were top to bottom renovated in 2008 to the tune of $9.5 million. Think 14,000 square feet of marble, gold-covered fixtures, and hot and cold plunge pools literally fit for a sultan. Be prepared to spend at least three hours here to get the full experience of a scrub/exfoliation, massage, and tea.

Explore the historic Sultanhamet area, where you can see the Hagia Sophia. Built in 537, it's famous for its massive, 18-story-high dome, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Nearby is the 17th-century Blue Mosque, which has six soaring minarets, and a large dome, recognizable for its intricate, heart-stoppingly gorgeous mosaics and striking blue tiles.

Shop at the Covered Bazaar. 
Also known as The Grand Bazaar, this major shopping mecca is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, a maze of 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops, selling jewelry, slippers, colorful carpets, spices and hand-painted ceramics. Bargain away with vendors—you can snap up everything from cheap-but-chic leather sandals to expensive gold earrings. It's insanely big and packed with people (which is part of the fun), but consider hiring a guide to show you around.

Take a boat tour along the Bosphorus River. 
You'll Instagram the beautiful buildings that line both the Asian and European shores—everything from waterfront palaces of sultans to villas of pashas. Zoe Yacht Bosphorus Cruises offers private lunch, sunset, and dinner sails, where you can enjoy mezzahs (appetizers/shared plates) like eggplant salad topped with yoghurt and octopus salad with sundried tomatoes, in total luxury.

How to get there: Top-rated Turkish Airlines flies non-stop from New York (JFK), Chicago, Los Angeles (LAX) and Washington D.C. to Istanbul.

—Jacqueline Gifford

What Do Your Wedding Colors Say About You?



How important is the role of color when planning a wedding? What dynamic do the colors used in table linens and decor create for the success of the big day? As an event planner, not only is it necessary to stay on top of the current color trends, but one of the first questions I ask any bride and groom is what function they want their colors to play when it comes to their wedding.

Color can dramatically affect moods and emotions as well as influence certain physiological reactions. Often, brides will choose their favorite colors for their wedding day, but you can also consider cultural traditions and life experiences when discussing color-scapes. Think about who you are as a couple, the type of wedding you want to have, and who your guests are. And not only are colors important for table designs, decor and lighting, but they should play a role in your flower and menu choices too. Below, a quick guide to each color's personality.

The Psychology of Colors:

White: Pure, clean, innocent in western cultures; mourning in eastern cultures; creates a sense of space so consider draping a small or dark room in white.

Black: Sophistication, power, elegance; in some cultures it represents death or mourning but in others it can mean life or rebirth; appropriate color for high-end, black tie events.

Red: Excitement, passion, intensity; creates very strong emotions and attention-grabbing; causes blood pressure and heart rate to rise; great color for themed events where guests are encouraged to move throughout the venue.

Orange: Vibrancy, energy, excitement; creates a playful environment for your guests.

Yellow: Cheery, warm, alert; this color can also create frustration and anger and is fatiguing to the eye; probably best to use with another color or as an accent and not as a major backdrop, for example, or focal point in a large room; increases the metabolism so a good choice for a breakfast or brunch event.

Green: Natural, healthy, tranquil; creates a calming effect, relieves stress and helps heal; hence, the symbolism behind the term "green room" as a place to relax prior to going on stage to perform.
Blue: Peace, trust, loyalty; a popular and neutral color on a global level; lowers pulse rate and body temperature and creates productivity.

Purple: Royalty, wisdom, wealth; an exotic color that is associated with luxury and extravagance but also a spiritual connection; can be used in creating special effects with lighting, for example, when designing a lounge area.

Color is a fabulous way to evoke emotions and to set the tone for the mood of your wedding day. Think outside of the box when it comes to the design process and choosing the color palette for table linens and overall decor. It will set you apart and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

—Nancy Stoltz, Huffington Post Weddings

A New York City Honeymoon!





Not for newlyweds who want to spend their days lazing by a pool, Manhattan makes for a very different kind of island honeymoon. New York City is a nonstop adventure— not going to lie, you'll have to dodge a few taxicabs—but it's also a mecca for fine dining, art, culture, and even relaxation. (The decadent spas are in a class all their own.) There is so much to do even native New Yorkers can't hit all the hotspots, so we've assembled a can't-miss list to get your city honeymoon rolling.




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