Fashion

Wedding Theme Ideas

2008-03-23T03:58:00.000-07:00

One popular idea for planning weddings these days is to come up with some kind of wedding theme, and to center your whole wedding around that theme. While some brides choose to go all out with a wedding theme that is pretty extensive and really makes a statement, other brides choose a wedding theme that is simple and elegant, which could go unnoticed. Sometimes it can be hard coming up with a wedding theme that will fit both of your tastes and preferences in a wedding, as well as the workload that you are wanting to put into your wedding theme. So, if you’ve just started your wedding planning and are looking for some great wedding theme ideas to help you out, then here are some of the most popular categories for wedding themes that you can use to help you get started.

Wedding Theme Ideas - Colors

Perhaps one of the most popular wedding themes is centered around a color that the bride wants in her wedding. For me, it was peach. My bridesmaids wore peach colored dresses with small peach and white bouquets, and I had lots of other little peach accents that helped to tie everything together. This kind of wedding theme is pretty easy to pull off, as all it requires are items of a particular color placed here and there to bring out your theme. Your wedding theme ideas around color could include any color that you want. This is the easiest kind of wedding theme that you can use, as it really doesn’t require a whole lot of searching and planning to pull it off. For more wedding theme ideas with colors, check out Pink Wedding Reception, and Pink and Brown Weddings.

Wedding Theme Ideas - Seasons

Another popular idea for wedding themes is to use a nearby season for your inspiration. Getting married in February? Have a Valentines wedding with lots of pink and red and those little conversation hearts. Christmas and winter wonderland weddings are pretty popular, as are fall weddings. Springtime garden weddings can also be a beautiful theme for your wedding. The great thing about winter theme ideas that are centered around a season is that you should have no problem finding everything you need. From Christmas lights to fake fall foilage, wedding themes around seasons are a great wedding theme to go with. For more wedding theme ideas with seasons, check out Winter Wedding Ideas for Church Decorations, Wedding Planning at Christmas, Christmas Wedding Centerpieces, and Decorating for a Fall Wedding.

Wedding Theme Ideas - Ultra Creative!

This wedding theme typically involves everything else. From cowboy western themed weddings to beach weddings and everything in between, this wedding theme can be a whole lot of fun - and a whole lot of work. Depending on where you live and what is available to you, these weddings may require a bunch of planning and searching to find just what you’ll need to make your wedding just what you’ve always dreamed it would be. Other popular wedding themes in this category can include mideval weddings, fairy tale weddings, and much more. The great thing about these kinds of wedding themes is that although they may require a bunch of work, the finished result is exceptional. For more great wedding theme ideas that are ultra creative, check out Cowboy Wedding Ideas.

Your wedding theme should reflect both of your tastes when it comes to planning a wedding. There are many other articles in the Wedding Planning Category that can help you if are really looking for a wedding theme and wedding theme ideas to help make your wedding something else. I’ll be doing a lot of articles on finding a wedding theme, and different ideas on decorating with a wedding theme, so be sure to keep checking back to see whats new, else sign up for my RSS feed and get the articles sent directly to you!

White Wedding Shoes

2008-03-23T03:57:00.000-07:00

I’ve been doing a lot of articles lately on wedding shoes. Partly because I understand just how important finding the right pair of wedding shoes can be for a bride, but also because I feel that there really isn’t a lot of information out there about wedding shoes. I remember when I was getting married, I wanted a pair of white wedding shoes that were most importantly, comfortable. First of all, my feel are shaped kind of funny, and so it takes me a while to break in a new pair of shoes. Also, I’m not real comfortable with wearing heels when I know that I’m going to be on my feet all day. That really goes for a pair of white wedding shoes that I haven’t been able to break in yet. So I knew that I wanted my white wedding shoes to be a comfortable pair of shoes that I could wear all day without my feet hurting. So when I was shopping for the perfect pair of white wedding shoes, I had some idea of what I was looking for, but didn’t really know where to start looking. So, if you are looking for the perfect pair of white wedding shoes to complete your wedding day look, then here are some great places to start.

White Wedding Shoes from a Bridal Boutique

Perhaps the best place to find a great pair of white wedding shoes is at your local bridal boutique. They typically have some very elegant pairs of white wedding shoes to wear with your dress in a variety of styles to choose from. Be careful with buying your wedding shoes from one of those boutiques though, they are not really known for having excellent prices. But, if you fall in love with a particular pair they have, then wait for a sale to be able to save some money later.

White Wedding Shoes from a Shoe Store

You can find a cheaper pair of white wedding shoes if you go and look in a discount shoe store. The only problem with this is that it can be really hard to find a pair of all white wedding shoes that you will be able to use for your wedding. I found my wedding shoes from a shoe store (Payless to be exact), and was lucky that it was spring time so that there were a few pairs of all white shoes that I could use for my white wedding shoes. Another idea that you can use to find some white wedding shoes are to use a pair of all white tennis shoes, which I talk more about in a previous article, Wedding Tennis Shoes

White Wedding Shoes from the Internet

Another idea for finding a pair of white wedding shoes is to look on the Internet. If you have pretty normal feet (unlike me, my feet are so narrow!), then this will probably work for you. You can find lots of white wedding shoes from different sites off of the Internet, such as wedding ballet slippers, or other wedding shoes that you can’t find near you. Whatever you do though, find a great deal on a pair of white wedding shoes.

It’s really not too difficult to find a great pair of white wedding shoes that you can wear with your wedding dress. Determine what kinds of shoes you feel most comfortable wearing, and then find a great pair of shoes that you can wear that will fit the bill. For any other help, check out my other articles on wedding shoes, which can be found in the wedding shoes category to your right.

Comfortable Wedding Shoes

2008-03-23T03:43:00.000-07:00

One of the most important things when shopping for your wedding shoes is that you need to purchase comfortable wedding shoes. Now, that doesn’t mean that I’m telling every bride out there that wedding flip flops or wedding tennis shoes are the only routes you can take when looking for comfortable wedding shoes. That isn’t the case at all. Different brides feel comfortable wearing different kinds of shoes, and some girls feel more comfortable wearing a pair of classy wedding shoes with a heel or other kind of elegant wedding shoes. So, if you’ve been looking around for a great pair of comfortable wedding shoes, and all you’ve been seeing are articles about how wedding tennis shoes are the only comfortable wedding shoes, that isn’t necessarily true. Here are some great ways to find a pair of comfortable wedding shoes that are still elegant and classy for your big day.

Trying on Your Wedding Shoes

One of the best ways to find a pair of comfortable wedding shoes is to try them on in the store, and be serious about trying them on. Try on both of the shoes, and walk around for a few minutes to see if there is any pinching, spots that rub particularly painfully, or any other factor that would make the shoes uncomfortable. If the shoes start hurting after a few minutes, chances are you won’t last in them all day at your wedding comfortably. So be serious when trying on shoes at the store, and take your time with each pair - you’ll be glad that you did.

Breaking in Your Wedding Shoes

If you find a pair of wedding shoes that you fall in love with, but they pinch a little and you think they just need to be broken in a little bit, be careful. You can try to break in your pair of wedding shoes by wearing them around the house or on short trips outside. (be careful not to get them dirty!) The only problem with this is that it can take a long time to break in a pair of shoes, and you’ll need to consider that carefully. If wearing the shoes give you blisters, you’ll probably get blisters from breaking in the shoes, and you want to give your feet time to heal for the big day. Also, you need to wear your wedding shoes with your dress while getting the dress altered, and if you decide later that the shoes you’ve chosen will be too uncomfortable - it could mess up the length of your dress. So be very careful when trying to break in a pair of shoes.

There are some good brands of wedding shoes that you can go with in the stores that are made to be comfortable wedding shoes for your big day. Just be careful when trying them on, and honest with yourself about how comfortable you’ll be in the wedding shoes you pick out. Trust me - you’ll be on your feet all day on your wedding day, and comfortable wedding shoes are a must!

Design Your Own Engagement Ring

2008-03-23T03:42:00.000-07:00

Guys, perhaps you are thinking about popping the question, or maybe you’ve already popped the question, and now you and your fiance are shopping for engagement rings. If you are having problems finding an engagement ring that you love, one option open to you that many couples are choosing to do today is to design your own engagement ring. Being able to design your own engagement ring helps to create an engagement ring that is truly unique, just like your true love is totally unique. Perhaps her tastes in rings don’t match up with the engagement rings you see in jewelry stores today, or the thought of being able to design your own engagement ring just seems more romantic. Whatever the case, you can’t go wrong when you design your own engagement ring. There are several methods you can use to design your own engagement ring, and you’ll have to investigate each one to find the method right for you.

Design Your Own Engagement Ring on the Internet

With the technology available today it is surprisingly easy to design your own engagement ring. There are several websites which sell engagement rings that have a section which will enable you to design your own engagement ring. Simply click on the section, and following the simple directions and steps given to create the engagement ring of your dreams. Many of the websites have an excellent interactive tool to help you choose the shape and size of the diamond, and create the perfect ring setting. Any site that is worth anything will tell you the tips in How to Choose a Great Diamond.

Design Your Own Engagement Ring Through a Diamond Broker

This is how my husband was able to design my engagement ring. He worked through a friend who knew an upstanding, trustworthy, and most importantly, certified diamond broker. (A side note here, diamond brokers sell diamonds at a much lower cost because of less overhead so you can get a bigger and better diamond for the cost you’d buy an OK smaller diamond for in a retail store) He worked with this diamond broker and purchased a loose stone, and then chose a setting for the diamond to go into. It worked out really well for us, and if you are wanting to design your own engagement ring, I would recommend this route to anyone.

Design Your Own Engagement Ring Through a Jeweler

This one could be a bit more difficult as most jewelers do not allow each customer to be able to design their own engagement rings. If you can find one though, it is always advisable to purchase the diamond separately and then look at settings.

Engagement ring designs are easily the most sought after type of jewelry, and the choice is yours to design your own engagement ring. Taking the time to design your own engagement ring shows how much you love her, and with all of the different options available to you in being able to design your own engagement ring, you’re sure to design an engagement ring that is truly unique.

Princess Cut Engagement Ring

2008-03-23T03:41:00.000-07:00

Lots of guys out there who are fixing to pop the question, and you know what question I mean, are faced with multiple decisions and questions. How should I do it? Should I have the ring first, or should we pick it out together later? What kind of engagement ring should I get? And of course, the nagging question on some men’s mind, Will she say yes? I know that my husband went through the same questions and thoughts while he was planning on proposing. One of the questions he worked through really well though, was which kind of engagement ring to get, and that was a princess cut engagement ring. I loved my engagement ring, it was what I had always dreamed of, and impressingly enough, he found out the answer himself. So, here is how my husband found out that a princess cut engagement ring was right for me, and maybe his methods will work for other guys out there looking to pop the question.

Look at Her Current Jewelry

What really helped my husband choose a princess cut engagement ring for me, was just his observation of some of the rings and jewelry that I already had before we got engaged. I already had a nice princess cut stone ring, in a light aqua color that my parents had bought me at graduation, and while we were dating, my husband would look at the ring and ask questions about it. From that, he knew that I preferred princess cut stones with white gold bands, and would love a princess cut engagement ring. While he was looking for the perfect princess cut engagement ring, he took one of my other rings from my jewelry box and had it sized to find out what size ring I was. So, that worked out really well too.

Talk to Her Friends and Family

First of all, before talking to her friends and family, be sure that you talk to someone you can really trust to keep your secret, so that it will stay a suprise. Once you find someone that you trust, then ask them what kind of rings you think that your girlfriend would prefer, and take their opinions seriously. Be sure to ask about what cut of diamond you think she prefers, as well if she wants a yellow or white gold band. After all, not every girl out there wants a princess cut engagement ring.

The princess cut engagement ring is a pretty new cut of diamond that has taken hold and gotten popular in the last decade or so. But remember that a princess cut engagement ring may not be right for every girl out there, some prefer older fashioned rings, or even engagement rings with other stones besides diamonds, or a yellow gold band. My identical twin sister preferred a round cut diamond instead of a princess cut engagment ring, so don’t make any assumptions when it comes to the ring. So, like I said, the princess cut engagement ring that my husband picked out was perfect, and the ring that you pick out for your girlfriend should be something that you know she will love and cherish for the years to come. Happy hunting!

Diamonds: The Latest in Bridal Fashion

2008-03-23T03:40:00.000-07:00

Diamonds have always been fashionable for the bride to wear on her finger for her wedding, but another traditional bridal jewelry are pearls, and they have been for quite some time as well.Â However, diamonds are quickly taking the place that pearls used to hold in traditional wedding jewelry style.

As you well know, when you’re doing your wedding planning, there is a lot of shopping that you are going to have to do.Â One of your shopping stops will be looking for wedding bands. If you’re like most brides out there these days, you’re going to be quickly attracted to the diamond bridal sets that are available, more than the pearls or other precious stones.Â If your fiancÃ© purchased your diamond engagement ring alone and as a solitaire then you may want to consider purchasing a diamond wedding band to complement it. My wedding band is a ring guard that has extra diamonds set into it, and the effect is beautiful and unique.Â Men, you can also find a wedding band to compliment your jewelry as well.

It is also traditional to purchase gifts for your bridesmaids and maid of honor as a thank you for all the time, work, and money that they are putting into your wedding.Â If you want them to match you precisely in your wedding, or at least get close, then you may consider purchasing them diamonds for their wedding jewelry and as a gift for being a part of your wedding party.Â It doesn’t have to be anything huge and extravagant, but hey, diamonds are a girls best friend, right?

Obviously, you’re going to want some pretty fashionable wedding jewelry your wedding as well.Â Diamonds have become a very popular choice and there are a variety of styles available that will complement the gown that you have chosen.Â You can purchase several different styles of wedding jewelry including matching sets of earrings and necklaces.Â You can even find matching bracelets with diamonds. Whenever you purchase diamonds for your wedding jewelry, you’re going to be a bride with great taste and high fashion.

Tiffany Engagement Rings - Worth the Price?

2008-03-23T03:24:00.000-07:00

Tiffany and Co. has been around since the 1800’s, and there is no doubt, they make a truly fabulous line of jewelry. In fact, while many women out there dream of their perfect Tiffany engagement rings, other women out there are just waiting for their boyfriends to propose, and any kind of engagement ring will do. So what makes a Tiffany engagement ring so special for some women out there, and not a big deal for others? Is it simply a difference in taste, a finance problem in affording the ring, or perhaps something else? No matter what the reason is for so many women out there craving a beautiful Tiffany engagement ring, one thing is for certain, Tiffany and Co. is well known for their quality in jewelry, and they’re not going out of style anytime soon. So if you are looking at Tiffany engagement rings, and wondering if they are worth the cost, then here are some great pros and cons of spending the extra money for a Tiffany Engagement Ring, and some alternatives to buying an original Tiffany engagement ring.

Why Tiffany Engagement Rings are so Beautiful

Like I said before, Tiffany and Co. has been around since 1800, and they know what they’re doing when it comes to crafting a beautiful piece of jewelry. Many grooms go in for a Tiffany engagement ring to impress their brides, while others know that their brides would really love any kind of Tiffany engagement ring. Tiffany engagement rings have a simple and classic setting that continues to be popular among brides. Tiffany engagement rings are known for their glowing diamond rings having bases in platinum or gold with a six prong arrangement that elevates the stone to get more exposure of light, which really makes the diamond sparkle. Not only that, but everyone knows that the Tiffany engagement ring that comes in a little blue box with a silver ribbon is made of the highest quality.

Tiffany Engagement Rings - Other Options

Tiffany has certainly set itself up to cater to the upper and the upper-middle social class. Some of their engagement rings can be obtained for a little over a grand, and they are willing to work with their customers to find the perfect Tiffany engagement ring to fit nearly any budget. But maybe a Tiffany engagement ring isn’t for you. There are many diamonds that are still very beautiful that do not require you to pay for the name brand. If you are really wanting a Tiffany engagement ring without the high costs, then nearly every jeweler out there can create a custom Tiffany setting for your engagement ring, and even custom make an engagement ring for you for less than the cost of buying a Tiffany engagement ring over the counter at one of their many locations.

Tiffany engagement rings are very beautiful, and diamonds really are a girl’s best friend. If you are wanting an original Tiffany engagement ring, then I’d suggest either waiting for a sale, or to start saving your money now, as an original Tiffany engagement ring can easily run you over $5 grand. Find a ring that fits into her tastes as your budget (if possible), and remember that the engagement isn’t just about the ring, though it is a great place to start.

Wedding Necklaces

2008-03-23T03:21:00.000-07:00

So you have your wedding dress all picked out and sized, you’ve chosen your wedding shoes and even have some kind of an idea on what kind of wedding hairstyle you’d like to wear on your big day. What else do you need to complete your wedding look? Simple, you will want to look for some kind of wedding jewelry to wear with your wedding dress that will help to complete your look. Wedding necklaces are a great place to start. There are many different kinds of wedding necklaces that you can buy to help accent your wedding dress. I’ve seen simple wedding necklaces with perhaps only a single pearl that adds a touch of elegance, and I’ve also seen more ornate wedding necklaces that are very glamorous. Wedding necklaces really do come in all shapes and sizes, and you want to make sure to buy a wedding necklace that goes the best with your wedding dress. Here are a few tips to use when looking for the perfect wedding necklace to complete your wedding day look.

Wedding Necklaces to Go with Your Wedding Dress

The first thing you will need to consider when looking at wedding necklaces is what kind of neckline your wedding dress has. Knowing this will help you to choose a wedding necklace that is the correct length for your dress. If you have a simple wedding necklace with just a single pearl and your dress has a high neckline, then the pearl could wind up sitting on the top of your wedding dress, and the effect will be gone. My wedding dress had a V-neck and I was able to look at all sorts of wedding necklaces since length wasn’t very much of an issue with my dress. Also, when shopping for wedding necklaces, make sure that the style of necklace you buy will compliment the beading on your wedding dress as well. My dress was beaded with lots of tiny pearls, so a pearl wedding necklace worked the best for me. You could also look at wedding necklaces that will add a little bit of color. One wedding I went to, the bride wore a white strapless dress, and then a very heavy wedding necklace of many different stands of white and bronze colored pearls. The effect turned out really beautifully. So feel free to be creative.

Wedding Necklaces with Special Meaning

Perhaps the best idea for finding wedding necklaces is to use one that already has special meaning for you. Maybe borrow a necklace from a mother or sister that will complete your wedding look as well as serving as your ’something borrowed’. Or maybe you already have a special wedding necklace you want to use. On the day of my sister’s wedding, her husband sent over a bag from Zales shortly before the ceremony with a beautiful heart and diamond necklace inside. It was such a sweet surprise, and gave her the perfect wedding necklace to wear with her wedding dress.

There is no tradition or rules set in stone as of to what kind of wedding necklaces you should wear with your wedding dress. Just be sure that when you are shopping for wedding necklaces, you get one that you really love. Of course, it is always an added benefit when you get to wear your wedding necklaces again for special occasions. If you have any great ideas for wedding necklaces you’d like to share, please write in and let me know.

Can I Register for All New Stuff?

2008-03-23T03:19:00.000-07:00

In the past, couples got married earlier, usually moving straight out of their parent’s home to a new home in married life, and didn’t have a lot of their own stuff for starting a new home. But now, people are waiting longer, often having their own homes before marriage, and once they decide to get married, both the husband and wife may find themselves with the dilemma of having two of everything. Maybe everything you have is hand-me-down, you want or you just want all new stuff. But now you’re wondering, can my wedding registry ask for all new stuff?

The answer is, of course, yes. It is your wedding, you can register for as much, or as little as you want. So, give all of your old stuff away, have a garage sale after the wedding, do whatever you want. You have every right to make your new home show off the tastes of both you and your finance. If you are more sentimental, think about it this way, your new home is a new beginning, the start of a new life together. Instead of getting together and thinking this is mine, this is his, everything from a wedding registry can become, this is ours.

The best way to handle such a large wedding registry is to make a list of everything that you will need and want. Be realistic though, if you don’t cook and hate baking, then registering for an assortment of baking pans might not be the best idea. Go through each room of your new home, choose a color theme for each room, and plan what you will need to make the new look work. These days, you can register for just about anything you want. From household goods to decorating accessories, the sky is the limit.

My husband and I faced the same problem when we got married. Each of us had our own homes established before marriage, and we chose to keep some of the things we had before the marriage. We went through everything that we had, and then decided what we needed for the new house, what we wanted to keep, and what we wanted a replacement of in the house. It was a great way to keep our wedding registry simple with some of the basics we needed. It ended up working out great for us. We had an online wedding registry since our family is totally spread out, it was easy for friends and family to buy us a gift and have it shipped. To be honest, I would do it the same way again.

Wedding Gift Ideas

2008-03-23T03:17:00.000-07:00

It seems as though people are constantly asking for some great wedding gift ideas for their friends or family. They want to get their loved ones something special for their big day, something to show the bride and groom how much they love them and are celebrating with them. I totally understand. You want your gift to mean something, and be memorable for the couple for years to come. My dad was in the same boat when it came to our wedding, but also wanted some special gift ideas for something that he could do. We talked about it, and my husband has a bad back, and the beds that he had been sleeping on in the past provided no support for him, leaving him in pain throughout the day. So we went bed shopping, and my dad also bought us a great set of new mattresses that would support his back and help him feel better throughout the day. And my husband has never had fewer back problems since I’ve known him (and I’ve known him for over 10 years now). If you are looking for some special wedding gift ideas, and are wondering what to do, then here are some great hints to help you get started.

Wedding Gift Ideas off their Wedding Registry

I know this one sounds silly, but think about it. The bride and groom have specifically chosen each item on their wedding registry as something that they want for their new home. So their wish list should provide you with some great wedding gift ideas. If you want to do something special for them, then one option is to get your wedding gift ideas from their registry. Look at what they have registered for, and choose one of the nicer items, or one you really know they want and may not get themselves if no one buys it for them. It will really mean something that you buy them something so thoughtful like that.

Wedding Gift Ideas - Look for a Need

Another idea for finding some great wedding gift ideas is to look for a need. For example, my dad buying us the bed to help my husband feel better was greatly appreciated, and something that we couldn’t buy for ourselves. Otherwise, if the couple is having money problems, then more great wedding ideas can come from this too. Some great wedding gift ideas are to donate towards the honeymoon, or offer to pay for something in the wedding, the couple is sure to appreciate it.

Be Careful with Your Wedding Gift Ideas

If you are looking for some wedding gift ideas that are a little more personal than something off of their wedding registry, then tread carefully. If the bride and groom really wanted something, then chances are it is on their wedding registry. But if you know the couple very well and know that one of them has always wanted a particular item then go ahead. You don’t want to be remembered as the guest who bought you this gigantic horrible painting of a kitten when what they really wanted was a vacuum cleaner.

Be sure to base your wedding gift ideas off the tastes and preferences of the bride and groom. Not sure what those are? Then just check out their bridal registry and look and see what kinds of things they like. I can totally understand wanting to look for special wedding gift ideas for that best friend or family member getting married. It’s not always fun to go to your best friends wedding, or your sister or brother wedding and only have bought them measuring cups and a utensil holder. I totally understand. But just read me here, if you are looking for special wedding gift ideas not on their registry, make sure it is something that they will enjoy for years to come.

More Wedding Reception Decorations

2008-03-23T03:16:00.000-07:00

I understand that when you are doing your wedding planning, one of the hardest decisions you will have to make (and you’ll have to make a lot of hard decisions) is what kind of wedding reception decorations you are going to use to create the wedding reception of your dreams. If you’ve been to any number of weddings, then I’m sure you’ve seen a lot of the same small flower arrangement on each table, or candles. Those are two of the most popular wedding reception decorations that you can use without really breaking the bank. But what if you aren’t having a themed wedding per se, and you still want your wedding reception decorations to pop? I’ve been looking around on the Internet, and seeing what other people have done, and have been thinking about it myself to try and come up with some more totally unique wedding reception decorations, and I’ve got a few that I really think are great.

Wedding Reception Decorations Celebrating Couples

One thing a friend of mine is working on for her wedding reception decorations is to celebrate love through the use of pictures. She is requesting that her married guests send in a wedding picture of themselves that they are going to blow up and hang around their reception hall. Pictures of the bride and groom will of course be hanging up as well. This is a great set of wedding reception decorations that are fun to look at, remember, guess who each couple is, or laugh at the styles during that time period. Print off the pictures in black in white so that they will all “match” somewhat, and pair it off with some flowers to help set the room off. Trust me though, not many people will be looking away from the pictures.

Wedding Reception Decorations with Fabric

One great wedding reception decoration that you can use that won’t really break the bank is colored fabric. I’ve seen some beautiful creations of different colored fabric draped from the ceiling, or draped and looped around the room that really adds a lot of color and depth to the room. Any colors will work, perhaps the colors of your wedding, or just a plain white can really look elegant as well. Depending on the height of your reception hall, you may need ladders and lots of people to help to make it really give off the look you want. So play around with it until you find the look you are going for.

Your wedding reception decorations should help you to create the look you have always dreamed of for your wedding. If you are going for simple and classic, or elaborate and elegant, there are plenty of ideas for every kind of look you want to go for. For more wedding reception ideas and advice, check out my previous article on the subject, called Wedding Reception Decorations. And, if always, if you have any other questions or need any other help, then be sure to write in and ask. Also, if you have some ideas of something that you have seen and loved and want to share, please write in and let us know. Until then, happy wedding planning. Don’t get too stressed out.

Cowboy Wedding Ideas

2008-03-23T03:14:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular wedding themes here down in the south are cowboy weddings. I know personally two or three in my family, and plenty among family and friends. Not only for rednecks, cowboy themed weddings can be charming, and a more casual wedding choice for everyone involved. If you’ve decided that you want to have a cowboy themed wedding, here are some great ideas to help you incorporate cowboy wedding ideas into your wedding.

Cowboy Wedding Invitation Ideas

If you are having a cowboy themed wedding, you’ll want to let people know in your wedding invitations. Include something like, “wear your jeans and boots”, or “wear your best cowboy duds” to let people know that it will be a casual cowboy wedding and they won’t come dressed up and feel out of place. There are lots of wedding invitation themes out there, and plenty of them are cowboy themed, so that shouldn’t be a problem for you. If you like, with the casual wedding theme, you could always print something off of your computer. It would be a little cheaper for you, and with a casual wedding, anything goes.

Cowboy Wedding Ceremony Ideas

If you have access to an outside area for a wedding, such as a field, barn, or ranch house, this works the best with cowboy weddings. If you are getting married outside, rent some benches and decorate modestly. Fill a small washtub with your wedding programs and/or wedding favors. You can still have your wedding dress and groom’s tux if you like, (there are more Texan looking tuxes out there as well if you like). For a more cowboy looking wedding party, have the groomsmen dress in cowboy shirts with pearl snap buttons, blue jeans and boots, and a hat or bandana if you like. For flowers, really anything works. Daisys are great, but roses are still classy.

Cowboy Wedding Reception Ideas

Inside a barn or other large room is the best place for a cowboy wedding. Decorate with hay bales that people can sit on. If you want to have tables for a dinner, use red gingham and see my article on Themed Table Centerpieces for more ideas on Western centerpieces. If you have dancing, consider square dancing lessons for at least part of the dance part of the reception, if not all. If you are having a wedding DJ, have him play only country music. If you like, you can try to hire a nearby rancher or someone to teach people how to lasso.

Cowboy Wedding Favor Ideas

Definitely use your imagination with this one. You can fix up a great “cowboy snack” such as trail mix, beef jerky, or some other treat, and wrap them all in bandanas. The possibilities are endless.

Cowboy weddings make for a great casual wedding, and people really do have a lot of fun at them. You won’t typically find any of your guests uncomfortable at the wedding, and they’ll definitely remember them more than the hundred weddings they go to where everything is the same.Â As always, if you have any cowboy wedding ideas you’d like to share, please comment and let me know!

Pink Wedding Reception

2008-03-23T03:13:00.000-07:00

At one point or another while growing up, most every girl out there has loved pink, and everything pink. Personally, up until about high school, my room was predominately pink, and I really only changed it because I wanted some more grown up colors, I didn’t fall out of love with the color pink. Pink can be bright and cheery or soft and romantic. In fact, pink is a great feminine color, and not just for babies or little girls anymore. Over the past few years, pink has regained its popularity with adult women, thus it should be no surprise that many young women out there choose to have pink predominately in their wedding. Pink wedding receptions are also popular, and many women out there are looking for ways to decorate their pink wedding receptions without using the same old thing that everyone else is using. So, here are some great ideas for incorporating the color pink into your wedding reception.

Pink Table Linens

Depending on the shade of pink that you choose, table linens may be a good idea for you to consider to decorate your wedding reception with pink. If you have an extremely bright or louder shade of pink, then you may want to have white tablecloths with pink runners, as well as tables with pink tablecloths and white table runners to help set the room off and not overwhelm the room with pink. If you have a lighter shade of pink, then use a lighter pink tablecloth on every table along with white runners, or another color if you have chosen more than one color to use.

Pink Centerpieces

As always, you can certainly use flowers as a great pink centerpiece. Most flowers come in various shades of pink, even some inexpensive flowers you can use. If you don’t want to use flowers, there are plenty of other ideas you can use. Use large pink candles with some greenery around the bottom for a classy look. You may want to check with the codes of the building before using candles though. You could also get some mirrors and sprinkle pink rose petals, or small rose buds around the tables. It’s a great way to add some romance and color to your tables.

Pink Wedding Cake

I don’t usually write much about wedding cakes, there are so many possibilities to choose from. I have seen some beautiful white wedding cakes with bright pink roses which was absolutely charming. You could also have a white wedding cake with pink icing swirls. My advice for this is to search on the internet for some pink wedding cakes and then talk to your florist to see what they can create like it.

Pink Wedding Favors

Candles are the easiest choice for this wedding favor. You can either buy small pink and white or swirled candles on the internet, and wrap them attractively for everyone. Another popular idea that I’ve seen, but not very much, is for you to provide every guest with a small pink flower of your choosing, as well as a pin, so that everyone can wear pink and get into the spirit of the occasion. Then they can take the flowers home with them as a reminder of your special evening. You can also look at my article on Pink and Brown Weddings for more ideas.

Also, if your husband to be doesn’t mind wearing pink, you can also give them pink flowers to wear in their lapels, pink ties and/or vests. They can be very beautiful. As always, if you have any other great ideas to throw a pink wedding reception, then please leave a comment and let me know!

Planning a Wedding Checklist

2008-03-23T03:12:00.001-07:00

One of the best things you can do when you are working on your wedding planning is to either create or purchase a wedding checklist to keep for yourself to make sure that you don’t forget anything. Trust me, once you start thinking about all of the things you need to plan and keep track of for the wedding, you’re going to want to have some kind of an organizer or planning a wedding checklist to keep yourself from forgetting anything. There were times during my own wedding planning when someone would ask me something like, “Well, what are you going to do about your ___? (insert wedding photographer, wedding programs, music, I was asked them all)”, and I would realize that I hadn’t even thought about doing that particular part of my wedding planning. Stink. So I started searching on the Internet where I could find a free planning a wedding checklist that I could use, and I found a bunch. But none of them really had everything that I needed, or they had items that I wasn’t planning on using, such as a DJ, and packages for out of town guests. But planning a wedding checklists are great, and overall they can really help you out a lot. Here are some great benefits for using a wedding checklist.

Find out How Early to Plan Each Thing

One great thing I loved about wedding checklists is that it let me know how early out I needed to start working on things, such as when to send out my wedding invitations, as well as when to have other things either picked out, places reserved, and much more to help me maximize my time. That way I could do my wedding planning in an order that made sense to me, since I had never planned a wedding before. Plus, it kept me from making my wedding favors when I should have been spending time picking out a wedding dress, or putting money down on a reception hall.

Remembering Where You’ve Been

I make a lot of lists in my day to day life. Not only because I have a ton of stuff to do and remember each day, but also because if I don’t have a list then I know something will be forgotten. Perhaps the best thing about a wedding checklist, or any checklist for that matter, is the satisfaction of being able to cross something off the list, and seeing your list get shorter as time goes by. For me, being able to cross stuff off of that planning a wedding checklist really helped with my stress level.

There is a link in my sidebar to one of my favorite sites called, Wedding Budget. This link will take you to a great site that has all kinds of documents and spreadsheets for helping you find ways to save money while doing your wedding planning, and it has at least 5 or 6 great bonuses that come with it. One of those bonuses is a wedding checklist. The whole set of documents and spreadsheets costs under $30, and with all the great bonuses you get with it, makes the money totally worth it. I found it really helpful, and I think you will too.

Wedding Planning at Christmas

2008-03-23T03:10:00.000-07:00

With all of the things to remember while doing your wedding planning, you can quickly and easily get stressed out and exhausted. It’s no fun being stressed out, and when you’re stressed out, sometimes it can be hard to sit back, relax and enjoy the little things in life, or to take a break and have a little bit of fun, but this is so important. When you are doing your wedding planning, many people try to use every spare moment to work on their wedding planning, and that’s really not a bad thing, it is called good time management. But a balance between good time management and being able to take a break and have fun is important as well. I know that when I get stressed out, not only can I not sit back and relax, but I also am short with people, and impatient over things that don’t matter all that much, especially with those closest to me. That is no fun way to live, for you or for those around you. So this Christmas season, I would like to give a little piece of advice for those planning a wedding. It’s not rocket science, but it is important, and can really make a difference. Have I built up enough suspense?

This Christmas season, take a break from your wedding planning. I know, I know, there are still so many things to do and decide, create and to plan, but just for a few days over the Christmas holidays, set those things aside and spend some real quality time with your friends, family, and of course your spouse to be. My uncle died in an accident two weeks before Christmas a few years ago, and I know that now his family would give anything for just one more Christmas, one more day even. Treasure those around you while you still have them with you. Sit back, relax, and let yourself enjoy the Christmas season. Make some happy memories with those around you that can be treasured forever.

Save Money on Your Wedding Photography

2008-03-23T03:08:00.000-07:00

Finding a photographer for our wedding was perhaps the most difficult part of my wedding planning. I went and interviewed with countless photographers, and I just couldn’t find one that felt right. Some charged by the hour, some charged by the hour and received costs for wedding packages, and some just charged for packages, and I really had no idea which way to turn. Also, it appeared that my wedding photography would be the most costly part of the wedding, more than serving a dinner for 175+ people. I just couldn’t accept that, and tried to find any alternative I could. As you know by now, I don’t agree with vendors charging more than they normally would simply because they are suppling for a wedding instead of a family. So, if you are looking for some way to cut your photography budget without losing quality photographs, here are some great things I found out to help you save money and still get great quality photographs.

1. Check your Local Colleges

Most colleges have a photography department full of competent, talented photographers. Not only that, but these students have a creativity and eagerness that you find lacking in some photographers who have been in the business a long time. Call the photography department and speak to one of the professors, and ask for a meeting with one or several of their top students. They’ll know who will do the best job. Ask the student to name you a price and let you know what is available with the equipment they have. Our wedding photographer had an advanced digital camera, and was able to burn all images to a CD for us to keep and make our own prints at home, as well as doing some larger prints and mattes, and albums. Not only that, but she had a website where all her pictures were posted, so family and friends could visit and purchase pictures from her website as well.

2.Talk to your Family and Friends

You’d be surprised who your family and friends really know. A friend of theirs who does photography on the side, or out of their home for the pure enjoyment of it? No doubt there is someone they work with who isn’t listed in the phone book, doesn’t have a professional studio, but who can still produce quality wedding photographs at a fraction of the cost of a studio.

3. Don’t be Afraid to Negotiate the Deal

I don’t know why, but most people today are afraid to negotiate costs. If your photographer only charges by the packages they provide, and not the hours, then don’t be afraid to ask for different packages if none of them attract your attention. If you don’t see yourself needing six 8×10 photographs, then ask instead for the number you need, and ask what difference that would have on your package cost. Also, see if you can get a discount on your engagement or bridal portraits if you hire them to do your wedding photography. Remember, it never hurts to ask, and all they can do is say no.

For me, my wedding photography was the most important part of the day. I wanted to be able to remember the day for years to come with quality pictures. I ended up hiring someone who had majored in photography, but worked another job, and did photography for families and couples on the weekends for extra money. I was extremely pleased with the way the pictures turned out. Remember that just because you are hiring a photographer for a wedding does not mean you need to pay out the nose for it.

Wedding Thank You Cards

2008-03-23T03:07:00.000-07:00

Your wedding thank you cards can really be anything that you like. Many companies offer wedding thank you cards that match your wedding invitations, and they’re really not all that expensive if you choose to go that way. Or, if you prefer, you can purchase different kinds of wedding thank you cards separately off of the Internet. However, if you are crafty, you could also make them yourself, which is the route I chose to take. I won’t go into much detail about it right now, but you can check out my other article about it, Making Your Own Thank You Cards. I loved my wedding thank you cards, and the time and effort that I put into making each one really helped make each one of them special. I still see them on people’s refrigerators when I visit friends and family.

Wedding etiquette mandates that wedding thank you cards should really be sent out within a few weeks to a month after you get back from your honeymoon. This means that you need to dedicate some time to getting them finished once you get back from the honeymoon. To help them go by quicker, enlist your husband to help, perhaps writing some of the wedding thank you cards for his family and friends. This will make it go by faster. People do expect a wedding thank you card, and even if it is later than a month after the wedding, your guests will still appreciate the thought to send them a card.

Make sure they are handwritten, pre-printed wedding thank you cards are lazy, and most people would rather not receive a card at all than to receive one of those wedding thank you cards. For your wedding thank you cards, you should also remember those who helped you plan showers, run errands, and those others who really helped you get ready for the big day. Thank them for their time and thoughtfulness in being there to help you out.

Take the time to tell your guests how much you appreciate them being there for you, taking the time out of their lives, and be genuine and sincere. Everyone knows that you are busy with wedding plans, but your friends and family will still be there for you after the wedding, so treat them well.

Square Wedding Invitations?

2008-03-23T03:06:00.000-07:00

Square wedding invitations are perhaps the most popular type of wedding invitation that brides purchase today for their weddings. They show off a newer style, more hip and trendy than the standard rectangular wedding invitation of times past. Square cards and wedding invitations have been around for quite a while, and it doesn’t appear that they are going anywhere soon. Personally, I really like them a lot. When I went shopping for our wedding invitations, I didn’t go specifically looking for square wedding invitations, but in the end that is what I ended up with. In my opinion, the square wedding invitations just have a newer and yet still elegant style that I liked. As much as I loved my square wedding invitations, I had to admit that there were some downsides that I had to deal with. So, before you go and choose your wedding invitations, here are some things to consider before choosing square wedding invitations.

Square Wedding Invitations Cost More to Send

This is something that I knew in the back of my mind, but never thought about when I was shopping for my wedding invitations. Since the square wedding invitations have a different shape than the typical rectangular wedding invitation, the post office will charge you nearly double to send them. Ouch!! Luckily, I got out of this one without any problems. When I received my square wedding invitations, they came with rectangular shaped envelopes with a slotted area for the square invitations. While it looked a bit odd (many said they never noticed though), I saved a bunch of money on postage.Â So, when you are shopping for your square wedding invitations, make sure to ask the company if they will come with square wedding invitations or rectangular. My sister wasn’t as lucky with her wedding invitations, and she had to double stamp both her wedding invitations and her response cards….so it pays to ask!!

Square Wedding Invitations Have Less Room

This typically isn’t such a big deal for most people, as they only need a few lines to give the necessary information. Due to my family situation though, I chose to do something different with my wedding invitations. I did not list our parent’s names, but instead had a short verse at the top of our wedding invitation which took up several lines, and in the end left me trying to reword everything on the invitation so that it would fit the square wedding invitation that I had picked out. In the end it worked out great, and I was really pleased with it.

Even though I was only listing the downsides of square wedding invitations, they are still undeniably my favorite kind of wedding invitation. If you have any experiences about your square wedding invitations you’d like to share, please comment and let everybody know!

Cheap Wedding Invitations

2008-03-23T03:05:00.000-07:00

Your wedding invitations are another important detail you will need to consider while doing your wedding planning. Once many people start noticing how much everything costs for a wedding, they will start looking for some ways to cut corners and save a little bit of money, after all, not everyone can afford the best of the best in every aspect of their wedding. Cheap wedding invitations are not hard to find, they are pretty much everywhere if you just have the time to look around a little bit. I know I know, who has a lot of extra time to look for cheap wedding invitations when they are doing their wedding planning?? Not a whole lot of people!! I know I was running full speed every chance I got with appointments with the caterer, florist, checking out places for the reception, and much much more! So, just to help you out, here are some great places to start finding cheap wedding invitations.

Print Your Own Cheap Wedding Invitations

If you have a home printer, or even a friend who has one, then you’re in luck. Many office supply stores and stores with card departments sell kits for making your own cheap wedding invitations. They typically come with the materials to make 55-75 wedding invitations per box, with everything you need. If you want to go this route, just pick out the design of cardstock that you like, and purchase as many kits as you need to complete your wedding invitations. Each box comes with the computer software you need to get everything to line up correctly and the margins looking good. Then, just print and stuff, and you’re finished. Whats great about these cheap wedding invitations is that if they are done right, they don’t look cheap.

Get a Discount for Cheap Wedding Favors

You’ll find as you start dealing with a lot of wedding vendors that many will offer you discounts off of your wedding invitations if you use them. For example, the florist that I used for my wedding also sold wedding invitations. Since I ordered my flowers through her, she also gave me a 20% discount on my wedding invitations. Not too bad considering what the cost could have been.

Other Cheap Wedding Invitations

There are many places to find cheap wedding invitations. Many paper supply wholesalers also sell cheap wedding invitations. If you can find a store near you, they typically offer their prices at about 25-40% less than what you would pay otherwise. Another idea for finding discount wedding invitations is to look for deals on the Internet. As you know, you can always find wedding stuff on the Internet, but just remember that you get what you pay for. I didn’t go this route because I wanted to personally see the wedding invitation before I bought it, not look at pictures which could look different when I got them back. Who knows, maybe I’m just still nervous about doing too much business on the Internet.

Cheap wedding invitations are not difficult to find, in fact, you may find that more people sell wedding invitations than you thought. My only advice is that each vendor has different styles and colors of wedding invitations, so be sure to look through lots of books until you find one that you really love, even if you have to look through several books to find it. Trust me, if you love your wedding invitations, it will be worth it to you.

Finding Discount Wedding Invitations

2008-03-23T03:04:00.001-07:00

You don’t want to spend a lot of money on your wedding invitations. You really don’t.Â Sure, they are a part of your wedding, and the first part of your wedding theme and colors that your guests will see. But when your guests get to your wedding, your invitations went out a good month or two ago, and they are now focused on enjoying your wedding, and seeing what you’ve done to create your wedding. You’ll want to spend the majority of your wedding budget on wedding vendors and details of your actual wedding day. So, finding some great discount wedding invitations is advisable. This doesn’t mean going to a card shop and finding some invitations that you think are discount wedding invitations, but really they are just the cheapest in the book provided. There are some much better ideas for finding discount wedding invitations that you can use to get a much better deal, and save some of those bucks for something more important on your wedding day. Here are some great places to look to find discount wedding invitations.

Find Discount Wedding Invitations at Paper Shops

Cut out the middle man. Most card shops and other vendors who offer discount wedding invitations are really only buying them from a local paper shop and adding a percentage onto the top for some profit for them.

They are making extra bucks off of you, so why not find the paper shop yourself and get some real discount wedding invitations. Do some searching in the phone book and make some calls to find the locations of some nearby paper shops where you can get some discount wedding invitations. You’ll be glad that you did.

Discount Wedding Invitations You Print Yourself

I’ve brought these discount wedding invitations up before, in a previous article about cheap wedding invitations, but I really love the idea. You can go to any office supply store, or even a place that offers greeting cards, and you’ll find that there are discount wedding invitations that you can buy packages of wedding invitations that you can print yourself on your computer. You can buy a package of fifty to a hundred of these discount wedding invitations for thirty to fifty dollars. The package comes with the invitation paper, the sending envelopes and return envelopes, as well as the software for your computer so that you can make sure the invitations look professional. It’s a great idea if you can find some discount wedding wedding invitations that will go with your wedding theme and colors.

Discount wedding invitations are really the only way to go when you are shopping for your wedding invitations. Like I said before, your wedding invitations are a part of your wedding, but they don’t really a part of your wedding day, so don’t spend a lot of unnecessary money on your wedding invitations. In most cases, discount wedding invitations can look just as good as wedding invitations that you spent twice as much on. But my advice - stick with the discount wedding invitations, your guests probably won’t notice the difference.

Wedding Insurance

2008-03-23T03:03:00.001-07:00

Wedding Liability Insurance is quickly becoming a must for many brides, and with the ever growing costs of weddings these days, who can blame them? The average American wedding today costs around $25,000. Wedding insurance will cover anything from weather conditions which can postpone the big day, to missing vendors, botched wedding photos, and in some cases, even cold feet. It’s a great thing, and when compared to the costs of having to postpone or cancel the whole ceremony in case of an incident, rather inexpensive, typically only $150 - $500 depending on the level of coverage you want. Here are some things to consider when deciding if you want to purchase wedding liability insurance.

Weather - If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, or planning a winter wedding in an area prone to blizzards or ice then wedding insurance would be a good idea in case something happens on your wedding day. If your ceremony is postponed due to weather, the right wedding insurance policy would pay for all costs associated with a whole new wedding.

Missing Vendor/Officiant - If your florist, caterer, or worse, officiant doesn’t show up on the big day, then the right wedding insurance policy will help you recover those fees of finding new vendors quickly, or in some cases the costs of a whole new wedding.

Other Unforseen - If a close family member falls sick and the ceremony needs to be postponed, your wedding photographs are lost or destroyed by the photographer, wedding location burns down, any number of things are covered by your wedding insurance policy.

Possible Riders - There are many riders you can purchase for your policy, and add extra specialized damage. A dress/tuxedo rider will cover you if your wedding dress is somehow destroyed, the location renting your tuxedos burns down, any number of things. A military rider will cover postponement fees if either the bride or groom is called to war before the ceremony. If you are having the wedding in your home, wedding liability insurance is necessary in case someone gets hurt. A gift rider will cover if the wedding gifts are destroyed or stolen, and a honeymoon rider will cover expenses lost if something terrible happens on the honeymoon. This can include lost luggage, missed flights, or even postponement if one of you falls ill.

When choosing a company to purchase your wedding insurance policy, read the fine print to ensure you are purchasing what you intend to purchase. Would you want to spend that kind of money for one day without some kind of wedding insurance policy in case something goes wrong? Or are you the risky type who hopes for the best, and if something happens will be stuck with some huge bills to pay? You will quickly find that wedding liability insurance is worth the cost.

Do I Need Wedding Insurance?

2008-03-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

With any major purchase such as a house or car, we are used to buying insurance to cover it in case something should happen. The same should apply with weddings. With costs of weddings constantly on the rise, now typically more than most people make in a year, it only makes sense to purchase wedding insurance it to keep from driving yourself into unnecessary expenses or more debt. Today the decision to purchase wedding liability insurance is yours, and depending on the type of wedding you are throwing, it may not be for you. Here are some things to consider when making the decision on whether or not to purchase a wedding insurance policy.

Your wedding day is supposed to be the happiest day of your life, however, but even with months of careful planning things could still go wrong. While wedding insurance can’t always prevent things going wrong, it can cover your financial loss. Many couples take out wedding insurance in case of loss of rings or wedding dress, having to postpone the event for any reason, vendors going out of business or not showing up, just to name a few. If you are spending a large amount of money on your wedding, and it is detailed and heavily dependent on your vendors, you should really consider looking into a wedding insurance policy. It could just save you a lot of money.

I did not purchase wedding insurance for my wedding, but then again I didn’t know much about it at that time. Our wedding was done relatively inexpensively for a wedding, and much of the work was done by friends and family. The reception was dependent of course on the caterer and other such vendors, but I had never considered the fact that there was a chance they wouldn’t show up. I called each of them the day before to verify drop off and arrival times and had a schedule made on their responses. However, if anything had gone wrong, the money that I had paid to vendors would have been lost, and the stress involved with those kinds of last minute situations wouldn’t be fun either. A wedding insurance policy is there for those “just in case situations”. Luckily for me, everyone showed up as promised, and everything went relatively smoothly.

If you choose to purchase a wedding insurance policy, you should purchase wedding insurance as soon as you start putting down deposits on your wedding dress, reserving your reception location, etc. because at this point you become financially responsible. Be sure to get more than one quote in the same way you would if you were taking out an insurance policies on anything else, in order to get the best deal.

Wedding Cake Toppers 4

2008-03-22T15:34:00.002-07:00

Seaside Jewels Cake Top
Realistic seashells and white sparkling sand cover one side of this light blue, heart-shaped resin cake top। Measures 6" tall.

Infinity Rings Cake Pick
This stunning cake pick draws attention to your wedding and anniversary celebrations। The contemporary double ring design is perfect for cake toppers, floral arrangements, bouquets and centerpieces. Beautifully appointed with rhinestones and crafted of painted resin. Measures 5-1/4" high overall.

Double Heart and Rose Cake Topper
This double heart cake topper features satin ruffles with satin and chiffon roses। Faux pearl accents and a satin bow add the finishing touches. Measures 6" tall. Pictured in white, also available in ivory.

Bride and Groom Floral Cake Top
This beautiful floral cake top on a pearl accented base includes an African-American, Caucasian, or Hispanic bride and groom figurine। Measures 10" tall.

Pearl Base Cake Top with Bride and Groom Figurine
This elegant pearl cake top base is available with an African-American or Caucasian bride and groom figurine (the Hispanic figurine is no longer available)। Base and figurine measures 6" tall.

Double Heart and Rose Cake Topper
This double heart cake topper features satin ruffles with satin and chiffon roses। Faux pearl accents and a satin bow add the finishing touches. Measures 6" tall. Pictured in white, also available in ivory.

Roses Cake Topper
A beautiful glass heart accented with white roses and lush green leaves makes a romantic cake top. Measures 6-1/4" tall.

Wedding Cake Toppers 3

2008-03-22T15:34:00.001-07:00

Double Heart Wedding Cake Top
This elegant porcelain wedding cake topper features two beautifully sculpted hearts, one suspended within the other। Measures 6" tall.

Scroll Double Hearts Cake Top
This elegant scroll double hearts cake topper measures 7" tall।

My Love Cake Top
Adorn your cake with this charming, ceramic cake top featuring an artistic heart design। Measures 3-1/4" x 4-1/4".

Love Link Sculpture
The artistic beauty of this decoration features a linked heart design, representing everlasting love। This ceramic sculpture also makes a meaningful gift or centerpiece. Measures 7" x 7-3/4".

Graceful Lilies Cake Top
This elegant resin cake top features delicate white calla lilies accented by iridescent glitter and a touch of yellow। Measures 6" tall.

Wedding Cake Toppers 2

2008-03-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

Personalized Acrylic Heart Cake Topper
A touch of whimsy! This personalized acrylic heart adds a modern hint to an old tradition. Measures 4" x 4".
This cake topper can be engraved with a bubble heart design with the bride and groom's first names and wedding date (example: John & Amy May 7, 2008) or a script monogram for no additional charge

Personalized Acrylic Square Cake Topper
A touch of class! This topper is the perfect finishing touch for your wedding cake. Measures 4" x 4".
This cake topper can be engraved with a double heart design with the bride and groom's first names and wedding date (example: John & Amy May 7, 2008) or a single block initial or a script monogram for no additional charge

Personalized Acrylic Circle Cake Topper
A circle of love! Show that your love will last with this circular acrylic cake topper। Measures 4" x 4".

Porcelain Doves Wedding Cake Top
This beautiful porcelain wedding cake topper features two doves elegantly perched atop a sculpted heart। Measures 8" tall.

Doves Cake Top
This elegant wedding cake top features a pair of porcelain doves captured in a romantic pose। Measures 4" tall.

Bridal Shower Theme Ideas

2008-03-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

A new bride typically only has a few wedding showers before the actual wedding ceremony, and it should be fun for everyone involved. A themed bridal shower is a great idea, and many people have started finding fun theme ideas to make the shower more memorable, and helpful to the bride. The wedding shower is typically thrown by the maid or matron of honor or some other family member. The location is any place that works with your theme. If you are planning a bridal shower, and are anything like me, totally lacking in imagination, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve done some research and talked to friends and listed my favorite ideas for a themed bridal shower below.

The Entertainment Theme:

Have all the guests bring gifts pertaining to entertaining the couple in times to come. This includes buying CDs, DVDs, games, puzzles, video games, and anything else you can come up with, get creative. This could also include televisions or DVD players or other game machines. For food bring boxes of candy, microwave popcorn, hot dogs, or even nachos such as you would get at a movie theatre. Make the bridal shower invitations look like an oversized movie ticket. A great idea for a couple that is just starting out.

Around the Clock Theme:

In this scenario, each guest or pair of guests is assigned a certain time of day, such as lunch time, bath time, or an actual time of day, like 8 am. Each guest should bring gifts that will be used during the time they are assigned. For example, with a morning time assigned, coffee mugs or specialty coffees would be a great gift. An afternoon time like around lunch time could be his and her lunchboxes complete with matching thermos. Finger foods are a great snack to be served, and a great bridal shower invitation for this theme would be clocks with each guest’s time on it.

Gift Certificate Theme:

With all of those mounting bills from the wedding, most couples would love to have a gift certificate themed bridal shower. In this theme, each guest is asked to bring the bride a gift certificate of their choice. This can include gift certificates to grocery stores, restaurants, spa treatments, clothing stores, movie theatres, and furniture stores. The possibilities are endless, and they are sure to enjoy it! Snack ideas are limitless, as are your bridal shower invitations.

Garden/Tea Party Theme:

This works great with a spring wedding. If you have a friend with a nice garden or yard with beautiful scenery, ask to borrow the space for an afternoon. Gift ideas are limitless, and finger foods desserts and sandwiches make a great snack to serve. Decorate with fresh flowers in the color of the wedding, and the bridal shower invitations look great with flower pressed paper which can be found in any craft store and printed on your computer.

Recipe Theme:

Also great for the bride and groom starting a new home together. Have each guest bring their favorite dinner recipe, favorite dessert recipe, and a miscellaneous recipe, along with the ingredients for each (dry goods only) as a gift. This will give them lots of dinner ideas, as well as being able to stock their pantry a bit before the wedding. Food for the bridal shower can be anything you like, and bridal shower invitations on blank recipe cards are a great idea! Be sure to include several blank recipe cards with each invitation as well.

Wedding Table Decorations

2008-03-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Even if you are not planning on having a dinner reception, you will need something to decorate the tables in your reception. Buffet tables, snack tables and dinner tables alike at any reception will need some kind of wedding table decorations to liven things up. These can be as ornate or simple as you like depending on your budget. Your wedding reception’s decorations can be virtually anything you can think of to spruce up your reception and make it totally you.Â Here are some great ideas for a table centerpiece that you can easily do yourself for quite a statement!

1. Candle Table Centerpiece - Whether in the afternoon or evening, a candle centerpiece will cast a romantic glow on your reception. This can be done several ways. You can get some large glass bowls and float candles at the top, while filling the bottom with either fruit slices, flower petals, goldfish (see my other post, Goldfish Bowl Table Centerpieces), anything colorful that could compliment your wedding colors. If you don’t like floating candles, buy large vases and fill bottom with coffee beans or colorful rocks and place larger candles inside the vases so that they last longer. Just be sure what you choose to accompany the candles is non-flammable or you will definately have an unforgettable ceremony.

2. Wedding Flower Centerpiece - This is probably the most popular as as well as the most varied. In this category, a simple arrangement can be just as charming and ornate as large ornate flower arrangements. In my opinion, there is nothing more beautiful than simple roses in a crystal vase in water with a clear stones at the bottom. I’ve seen it done many times, and each time as elegant as the next. For my own wedding reception I had a small arrangement of flowers attached to a tall silver vase. You can also use certain types of flower buds as decorations as well.

3.Other Reception Table Decorations - If you are having a themed wedding, look for a reception centerpiece that will go along with your theme. If you are having a beach wedding, I’ve seen centerpieces with sand, shells and candles done very elegantly. Cowboy hats and bandannas are great for a western table centerpiece, perhaps along with some vintage spurs or cowboy boots. I’ve also seen miniature wedding cakes at the middle of each table. It is a beautiful decoration, and one that your guests can eat.

There are plenty of inexpensive table centerpieces to choose from, all that is required is an imagination and willingness to experiment until you find something is just right for your wedding.

Romantic Wedding Vows

2008-03-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

If traditional wedding vows aren’t your thing, and you would rather write something that can express the love that you have for your future spouse, sometimes the task can be daunting. An eternal love, and one worth celebrating is worth the extra work if you want to put it in. Romantic wedding vows are quickly becoming more popular as couples choose different ways from the norm to pledge eternal love before family and friends. If you have a mental block, or just need some ideas to help get you started, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve put some work in and come out with my list of favorite romantic wedding vows.

I love you, ___. You are my best friend and today I give myself to you in marriage. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you, and to comfort you in times of sorrow. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, when life is easy and when it seems hard. I promise to cherish you, and to always hold you in highest regard. These things I give to you today, and all the days of our life.

_______, I love you. You are my best friend and will be forever. Today I give myself to you in marriage to be your husband/wife. I promise to encourage you, to laugh with you and to comfort you in times of sorrow. I promise to love you in good times and bad. I promise to cherish and respect you. I vow to be faithful and true for as long as we both shall live. Because of you, I laugh, I smile, and I dare to dream again. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you, caring, loving and being there for you in all life has for us. I will always be the person that you can trust, talk to and the person that will always understand. I will make my home in your heart. These promises I give you today and all of the days of our lives. Our love has given us wings and our journey begins today.

_____, today I become your (husband/wife) and you become my (wife/husband). I will strive to give you the best of myself, while accepting you the way you are. I promise to respect you as a whole person with your own interests and needs, and to realize that those are sometimes different, but no less important than my own. I promise to grow along with you, to be willing to face change as we both change, keeping our relationship alive and exciting. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, with all I have to give and all that I am, in the only way I know how — completely and forever

____, All that I am and all that I have, I offer to you in love and in joy. From this day forward I will love and comfort you, hold you close, and prize you above all others. I will remain faithful and true to you all the days of our lives
There are so many ways to tell your lover what they mean to you, and finding words to say may be difficult. Think of your soon to be husband or wife and the things you love about them, and the words will come. Romantic wedding vows are something they are going to remember forever and carry in their hearts

Make Your Own Wedding Favors

2008-03-22T13:51:00.002-07:00

Wedding favors are a great way to show your guests that you appreciate them being there for you on your special day! You can always find cheap wedding favors on the internet which will take practically no time to put together, but homemade wedding favors are much more charming and more likely not to be thrown away immeadiately after the wedding. Most people complain that they just don’t have enough time or don’t like crafts but whatever the argument, there are wedding favors which can be made in just a few minutes which can really show your guests that you care.

1. Candle Wedding Favors

Candles are not that hard to make, you can find directions in any craft store. Melt the beeswax (it takes like a minute in the microwave), add a wick and pour into the container or mold of your choice. You can even add coloring and scents to make it a more personalized wedding favor. If your theme is a beach wedding, pour the beeswax into empty shells, its a great effect. If thats a little too crafty for you, buy some candles already made in a color that matches your wedding and a scent that you like, wrap them up with some tulle tied with a ribbon.

2. Chocolate Wedding Favors

Who doesn’t like chocolate? Find yourself a recipe for chocolate or melt chocolate if you’re not a cook, then pour into a cute mold (also available at craft stores), freeze for a few minutes and you have your own homemade chocolate wedding favors to fit your wedding theme. You can also buy lollipop sticks and make chocolate lollipops which look great wrapped in cellaphane and ribbon. If you’re really crafty, use different colors in the mold to make your treat stand out! If you’re not so crafty or are running short on time, buy giant candy bars, take off the outside wrapper, and print up your own on the computer as a place card or write a romantic quote, your names and wedding date, whatever you want.

3. Flower Seed Wedding Favors

Seed packets are starting to be a very popular wedding favor. Visit your local gardening store and see what you can find. Most seeds can be bought in bulk relatively cheaply. Choose something that is native to the area where you are getting married so that people can actually plant them. Wildflowers or forget-me-nots are popular, but you can also go with others like hot pepper seeds, carrot, watermelon, strawberry, lavender, mint, basil or sage. It all depends on your theme! They can be wrapped up anyway you choose, though they look great through small glass jars. Be sure to make a tag with these favors telling the guest what kinds of seeds they are and care tips.

4. Potpourri Satchets

Believe it or not, potpourri can be bought in bulk on the internet, scented or unscented, and it makes a great wedding favor. Choose a scent and color that you like, and it looks (and smells) great in a drawstring bag or small lace satchet. If you’re crafty sew up some little bags by sewing three sides, adding the potpourri, then sewing the fourth side. Attach a silk or plastic flower and you’ve got something someone will want to hang on to for a while. If you’re not very crafty then just wrap them in cellaphane, which is still pretty, or in a drawstring bag, add a flower or tag and you’re done!

There are plenty of ideas for wedding favors out there. If you’re looking for a unique wedding favor, think about the theme and colors of your wedding and use your imagination. The sky is the limit!

Find a Wedding Dress for your Body Type

2008-03-22T13:51:00.001-07:00

Perhaps the most important decision for any bride is the wedding dress. From a young age, most girls fantasize about their perfect wedding, the groom, the flowers, the cake, and most importantly, the dress. It is the most important dress we as women will ever buy, and yet will only be worn for only a few hours. Yet in those few hours she is the center of attention, and memories and photographs are made that will last a lifetime. So now you are out looking for the perfect dress, but don’t know what to look for? Here are some guides to help you find the perfect dress that compliments your body type for you to feel and look your best on your special day!

The Hour-Glass Figure:

The most flattering wedding dress types for you would be an A-line or dress with a dropped waistline.

There is some argument about a ball gown dress and a corseted dress, and it your own taste will need to play a part in this as well. Make sure that you have a gown that accentuates your curves, and not draw one that draws the eye to an unflattering line. Make sure you are emphasizing all the right curves!

The Pear-Shaped Figure:

With this body type the goal should be to find a wedding dress that brings balance to the top half and bottom half. The A-line and Ball gown would work best to disguise fuller hips, and paired with either a Strapless, V-Neck, Off-the-Shoulder, or Scoop neckline will draw attention to your upper half and work to bring proportion and balance out your figure.

The Petite Figure:

Being thin, whether tall or short, nearly every silhouette will flatter your figure. Watch out for big elaborate gowns if you are short, as they could overwhelm your small frame. The empire or princess gown will tend to lengthen your figure and add some height. Small straps or strapless gowns can be very flattering. If you are tall, you may want to stay away from empire dresses as they will draw more attention to your height.

It would be best to try on some of the gowns that you like, and just see what works for you. A dress off the rack, or in a magazine may not look the same on the model as they do on you. Be sure to try on a number of wedding dresses and necklines to determine what works best with your body type and tastes. Remember that, while your weight may fluctuate between the time you buy your gown and the day of your wedding, your body type will not change. So, even if you’re planning on losing weight before your big day, choose a wedding dress that suits you today.

More Wedding Reception Decorations

2008-03-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Cheap Wedding Shoes

2008-03-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

I know I know, when it comes to picking out what you’re going to wear on your wedding day, it’s typically only about the wedding dress. I totally understand. However, when you are deciding what to wear on your big day, the wedding dress isn’t the only thing that you will be wearing. You’ll need to look at special underclothes for your dress if you need it, hoisery, and of course, wedding shoes. Wedding shoes are not typically the top of every bride’s shopping list. In fact, it’s typically only about the wedding dress, and in most instances, the wedding dress will completely cover the wedding shoes anyway. So, many brides go on the hunt for cheap wedding shoes, making them fun and comfortable for their big day. So, if you are looking for some cheap wedding shoes and need some help coming up with ideas, here are some great hints to help you get started.

Cheap Wedding Shoes - ON SALE!!

Everyone loves a sale, especially brides. Many bridal shops and stores have annual or semi-annual sales on their wedding shoes to get rid of some old inventory to make room for the new styles that are coming out. Check with your local bridal shops occasionally to find out when those sales will occur, or sign up for their mailing list to find out the dates, and hit up those stores then. Or, if you are having trouble finding cheap wedding shoes this way, then many online shops sell cheap wedding shoes that you can easily purchase.

Cheap Wedding Shoes - Ballet Slippers

Many brides looking for cheap wedding shoes tend to go more towards the ballet slippers in white. They are still lovely and feminine, and totally comfortable for your big day. And trust me, comfort is important, especially on your wedding day. You will be standing most of the day, so it is important to have comfortable wedding shoes. Ballet slippers can be purchased off of the Internet or other location near you. Do a search, you’re sure to find plenty of possibilities.

Cheap Wedding Shoes - Flip Flops

I’ve seen many brides go with these kinds of cheap wedding shoes. Typically, the dress covers the feet anyway, so the shoes are not really visable unless she lifts up her dress. Many brides choosing to go with these cheap wedding shoes will buy white flip flops and then decorate them with tulle or rosettes or something like that.

Cheap Wedding Shoes - Tennis Shoes or Boots

Another popular kind of cheap wedding shoes that many brides choose to use are tennis shoes. Make sure they are completely white, and then lace tulle through the shoelace holes to make them more festive. If you’re thinking of using tennis shoes, then check out my article called Wedding Tennis Shoes. This is also done typically when the wedding dress will cover the shoes anyway. Another popular choice, especially here in Texas is to wear boots with your wedding dress.

Cheap wedding shoes are not difficult to find if you know where and when to look, and if you have some idea of what kind of shoe you’d like to be wearing on your big day anyway. The brides in the bridal magazines always wear some pretty fancy wedding shoes, and that may be what you are looking for as well. If this is the case, then look for sales on the Internet or in your local bridal shops to help you get the cheap wedding shoes you need to help completele your bridal look. (Personally, I purchased my cheap wedding shoes at Payless - white slippers with ribbon, and they turned out really cute.)

Wedding Hairstyles

2008-03-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

There are so many different ways for brides to wear their hair today, that the choices really are limitless. Worried your hair is too short? Not need to worry, different colored hair extensions can easily be purchased and attached so that you can have any wedding hairstyles that fit your fancy. And there really are a lot to choose from. Up? Down? Halfway? Flowers? Combs? There are so many different wedding hairstyles today as well as wedding hair accessories that choosing a flattering wedding hairstyle for your face shape and type of dress can be daunting. Wedding hairstyles may be something you want to put off until the last minute, but if you are smart, you’ll spend some time looking at all of the different wedding hairstyles that are available to you. Here are some helpful hints to get you started.

Look at Pictures

One way to get some great ideas is to scour the Internet and different bridal magazines you can purchase at any grocery store. Look at the different wedding hairstyles, cut out pictures of the different wedding hairstyles that you like, and look at them occasionally. Eventually, you will develop favorites, and throw away some that you don’t like a few weeks later. That is a great way to narrow down your options.

Consider the Wedding Dress Style

When I was looking at wedding hairstyles, it worked better for me to have my hair up completely. My wedding dress had a V-neckline with short sleeves, and having my long hair down would have detracted from the intricate beading and decoration on the dress. While it may be a small factor in your wedding hairstyles decision, it could still be an important aspect to your decision.

Spend Time with your Hairdresser

My hairdresser was able to help me considerably when it came to choosing from the different wedding hairstyles. I scheduled an appointment with her, told her that I had a short crystal headband/tiara that I was wanting to wear (see my article on Bridal Tiaras), and we went from there. We tried lots of different wedding hairstyles until we found one that I really loved. She took pictures, wrote some notes in my file, and we were set.

Wedding hairstyles are an important part of your wedding day look. The right hairstyle can really set off the rest of your dress, so it’s important to choose one that is flattering to you. Wedding hairstyles can really be anything your imagination is able to create, and help make your wedding day appearance totally your personality. Don’t be afraid to keep searching until you find something that you like. It took me and my hairdresser several hours of trying different wedding hairstyles, until I found one that worked perfectly for me, and you can find one that is perfect for you too.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

2008-03-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

Many brides today want to look unique, different from any other bride out there. It’s hard to do that when most brides typically shop at the same stores you are looking at for your wedding dress. There are only so many dresses, and in my opinion, I’ve seen enough brides in strapless dresses to last me a lifetime. Trust me, not every body type out there looks good in a strapless wedding dress. If you’re unsure, check out my article, Find a Wedding Dress for Your Body Type and What Neckline Works Best with my Body Type? Many brides now are looking for ways to design their own wedding dresses, and its a good thing. Your wedding dress should reflect you and your personality, which is different and unique from everyone else out there. If you are wondering how you can design your won wedding dress, then here some great pointers to get you started.

Find out what you like

A wedding dress is different from any other dress that you will ever wear. They’re bigger, heavier and fancier than any dress I own, and I own a lot of dresses. So if you don’t already know what kind of wedding dresses you like, then go into a bridal shop and try on as many dresses as it takes. Look at the different necklines, waistlines, and beading, and patterns to help you decide which you like. Bring a camera and take pictures of what you like and a notebook to help you remember later.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

You don’t have to have any special software or skills to do design your own wedding dress, just pictures of what you like. If you have a friend or family member who is a seamstress, go and talk to them about making your dress, and if not, then go to fabric stores and start asking around. Most fabric stores will have business cards of ladies who can make wedding dresses for you. Set up a meeting with your seamstress and take your pictures and notebook of ideas. A good seamstress can look at your pictures and be able to copy the different ideas that you have into one dress. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Learn to Love Fittings!

A lot of brides I know complain about having to go to fittings. I don’t understand it. Especially when you design your own wedding dress. You want to make sure during the dress making process that you are happy with the way the dress is coming out and making sure that it fits. Don’t be afraid to let your seamstress know if you don’t like something about the dress so that it can be changed early.

An Added Benefit

When you design your own wedding dress, the cost of the dress does decrease considerably. You will typically pay your seamstress a flat amount, along with the cost of materials (which is suprisingly inexpensive - the satin for my dress was only $7 a yard, and I only needed 7 yards). So, for less money you get a dress that you absolutely love, totally unique, for less money. Can’t beat it!!

Another Added Benefit

Let’s face it, wedding dresses are expensive. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could easily spend three times what you were planning on spending on a wedding dress without even realizing it. If you don’t want to design your own wedding dress, but want the benefit of saving money and time on wedding attire, then click here for an all inclusive guide to getting the best wedding attire at a fraction of the cost.

If you’re still unsure if you want to create your own wedding dress, then check out my article, Custom Made Wedding Dresses. Find out why I chose to design my own wedding dress, and why I recommend it to everyone I know getting married. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me!

Pink and Brown Weddings

2008-03-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular sets of colors for weddings this year is pink and brown, or rather, anything with brown. I’ve seen teal and brown, and even a kind of tan and brown, which is also very beautiful. As I mentioned before in previous articles, my sister is getting married soon and will also be having a pink and brown wedding, and the colors are just beautiful together. If you have decided you want to have a pink and brown wedding as well, but are lost when it comes to decorating for your reception, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are some great ideas for ways to incorporate pink and brown into your wedding decor.

1. Ceremony Decorations

This is something that I didn’t think about until just a few weeks before the wedding. It seems I spent so much time on the reception, the dress, the photographer, and all the other details that keep popping up that I just didn’t think of this one. You can do some great decorating at your ceremony location. If you are getting married outside, then place pink ribbons on some of the trees (if they will let you do it - ask beforehand!!). If you are getting married in a church, then pink ribbons on the brown wooden edges of the pews will be great. The brown in the bouquets and the bridesmaid dresses will help to add enough of the brown color to your wedding ceremony decorations.

2. Bridesmaid Dresses

This is one of the easier tasks, as most everyone looks great in pink and/or brown. A pink dress in the shade of your choosing paired with a brown sash, or vise versa with the brown dress and pink sash is a popular choice for brides today. Or, if you prefer, you could make the dresses either solid pink or brown, and give each bridesmaid a bouquet with pink and brown flowers. Believe it or not, there are many flowers which will come in a dark, almost brown color (and not the dead ones!) Check with your florist to see what is available. You can also make it a hand tied bouquet with a wide pink and brown ribbons for another touch of added color.

3. Centerpieces/Flowers

Think cherry blossom branches. When most people stick to roses and other more common flowers at their weddings, this is a great way to make a statement, not only that but they are absoultely beautiful. The brown branch along with the small delicate pinkish flowers make a simple and yet classy centerpiece for the tables at your reception, or even as larger arrangements to decorate any area. Talk to your florist for pricing. Stick taller branches in a vase with water, or you can get some shorter vases and cherry blossom branches and submerge them completely in the water for a shorter centerpiece, whichever is your preference but both are absolutely beautiful. Another one of my favorites for pink and brown wedding centerpieces is to use coffee beans. Check out my article on Using Coffee Beans as Wedding Decorations for more ideas on using coffee beans.

4. Wedding Linens

Your table linens are an easy way to add a touch of color to your wedding reception. Choosing a light brown table cloth with a light pink runner is a beautiful choice, and will really set the romantic glow at your table. To help vary things among the tables, you can do half the tables that way, and the other half with a light pink tablecloth and light brown table runner. A cute idea for using this is to have the brides family sit at the pink tablecloth section, and the groom’s family at the brown tablecloth section to help make it easier with sitting.

5. Wedding Favors

Your choices for this are unlimited. Search on the Internet for some cute pink and brown boxes and put one at each place setting. Anything can be inside the boxes, doesn’t have to be pink or brown. One idea that many use is chocolate with pink ribbons or paper covering. It only takes a few minutes, and most everyone loves chocolate. You can also use coffee beans, just grab beans of your favorite brew, wrap them up and tie it off with a pink ribbon, and you’ve got another great wedding favor.

Pink and brown weddings are quickly becoming more popular, and like I said before, it’s a great color combination. Use your imagination when doing your decorating, and if you have any other great ideas for using pink and brown in your wedding, then be sure to leave a comment and let me know!

Bouquet Accessories

2008-03-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

Â With brides making their weddings more and more personalized, it’s not surprise that more and more aspects of the wedding are becoming more personalized as well. Thats why many brides are looking into bouquet accessories to make their wedding bouquet more their own style. You’ll see it in celebrity and everyday weddings alike. Bouquet accessories can include any number of things, the sky really is the limit. I myself carried a vintage scarf which belonged to one of my aunts wrapped around the stem. Below are some great ideas of the most popular bouquet accessories that you can use. Some of them you can make yourself if you want to, or else use something that is meaningful to you on your wedding day.

Crystals

Crystals are an idea most usually used by celebrities. Luckily, if you like this idea, it’s one that you can easily copy and make yourself. There are two ways to do this. First, you can create crystal ’sprigs’ if you will, which will be placed between the flowers of your bouquet. Your florist can easily add them in, you’ll just have to remember to get them to the florist beforehand. Another idea I’ve seen is to create an entire bouquet completely out of crystals. You can buy small clear stones at craft stores, along with wire and a set of pliers and make them yourself. Its very sparkly and pretty. For our wedding, the groomsmen had crystal boutineers which I bought in Mexico on one of our mission trips, and they worked great, and were something everyone could hang onto after the wedding.

Charms/Pictures

If you have a special someone not able to attend the wedding due to death or illness, one thing you can do is have a small picture of them placed into your bouquet somewhere. Again, you’ll have to work with your florist for the best place to put it. Or, if you have a charm or other trinket that has special value to you, see if your florist has any ideas for adding it in.

Cloth

I carried a vintage white handkerchief of my aunt’s which was bought overseas wrapped around the stems of my bouquet, and it meant something to the both of us when I carried it down the aisle. Other ideas for this is to cut a length from your mother’s wedding dress and use it to wrap around the stem of the bouquet. It’s a beautiful addition and one packed with memories

There are lots of ideas for different bouquet accessories, the choices really are endless. I’ve known some people to forgo the bouquet completely and instead carry down their family bible. If you choose to use bouquet accessories then you will have a bouquet that is all your own, total you.

The Wedding Day Diet

2008-03-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

After doing some research a few weeks ago, I came across a product I was really interested in called the Wedding Day Diet. Like I said before, I had lost quite a bit of weight before the ceremony from eating right and running, but in the end I still didn’t get to my goal weight. It wasn’t a real big deal, my dress still fit and I was happy with the way I looked, I just didn’t reach the goal that I had initially set for myself. That isn’t typically the case.

A lot of women out there are in a different boat. Either they bought their dress too early and then gained some weight with the stress of the wedding, or they are trying to fit into a gown that is an heirloom and didn’t want to alter it, or they just wanted some extra motivation to lose weight and bought their dress a few sizes too small (not a good idea by the way).

Anyway, I found this diet plan a few weeks ago, and had really wished that I had seen it before the wedding. It even has a diet plan for a few weeks out from the wedding, so I thought that it really wouldn’t hurt for me to try it out after the wedding and see if his ideas have any merit. So, with the permission of my husband, I bought his e-book, and started looking through the ideas that he had listed, and there was some stuff in there that I had never heard of before, things I never would have thought of myself.

In his e-book, he gives an exercise plan for brides, and for areas that will be most on display during the wedding ceremony. Such as toning your back and arms with special exercises for those wearing strapless wedding dresses and halter wedding dresses, which I thought was a really great idea.

So, to make a long story short, I will be trying the diet myself over the next few weeks, and will keep everyone updated on the progress and just how well it works. Keep checking back for updates on this, I’m really interested to see if his ideas will work.

Make Your Own Spring Wedding Favors

2008-03-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

For most people, there is no time of the year like spring. The first bit of sunshine and flowers following a long hard and sometimes depressing winter has a way of putting everyone into a great mood. Not suprisingly, this makes spring one of the most popular times of the year for weddings. I’m not sure of the statistics on this one, but it seems as if every year there are many many weddings on each and every weekend from March to May. Many brides with spring weddings incorporate everything about spring into their weddings. From spring colors, flowers, outdoor ceremonies, and in many cases, spring wedding favors to help their guests celebrate spring as well. So, if you’re racking your brain for new and unique ideas for spring wedding favors, then you’ve come to the right place! Here are some great ideas for spring wedding favors.

1. Flower Seed Packets

This is starting to become more and more popular each year. You can either buy your favorite flower seeds or even fruit and vegetable seeds relatively cheaply from any nursery. Either buy the individual packs, or buy the seeds in bulk and make cute containers for them yourself, such as baby food jars or other homemade envelopes. If you are buying in bulk, be sure to include a tag on the wedding favor letting your guests know what their seeds are, and any caring instructions they need to know. One cute idea I’ve seen is to buy many different flower, fruit and even vegetable packs, and give each table a different type of seed. Then, for each table, name the table the name of the seed they will receive. It worked out really well.

2. Flower Bulbs

Another great idea, though perhaps could be a bit expensive for larger weddings, is to purchase flower or other plant bulbs, and wrap cellophane around the bottom of each bulb. Then, place a bulb at each table setting, or back table if you’re not having a dinner. Then, just like the wedding favor above, create a tag for each bulb with the name of the plant, care instructions, and even a cute saying such as, “Watching our love grow”, or “Our love is blooming”. Cute idea, and those of us without a green thumb have more of a chance of growing the flowers.

3. Spring/Summer Packs

Another great idea for creating spring wedding favors is to give each guest a small pack with everything they’ll need for the spring and summer season. If you are crafty you can make your own bags, or buy special gift bags off of the internet. Then, you can fill it up with anything that you like, such as pairs of flip flops, sunglasses, beach towels, sunscreen, any number of things. Use your imagination, and be sure to vary some of the bags from table to table.

Personally spring is my favorite time of year, my husband and I were even married in the spring. I love the spring and everything about it. If you need more ideas for spring wedding favors, keep checking back for more information. Or, if you have a favorite spring wedding favor you’d like to share, please comment and keep us all updated!

Cowboy Wedding Favor Ideas

2008-03-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

One popular wedding theme couples use are a lot today is cowboy weddings. Not only popular here in Texas, cowboy weddings are springing up all over the country. Cowboy apparel, western decorations, cowboy wedding vows, cowboy western music, and cowboy wedding favors are all regularly seen with cowboy western wedding themes. Wedding favors are typically one of the more difficult decisions to make in any wedding, cowboy themed or not. If you are planning a cowboy wedding and need some ideas for cowboy wedding favors, then you’ve come the the right place, here are some great ideas you can use for your cowboy wedding.

Trail Mix Wedding Favor

Trail mix is something you can either buy in bulk and separate out into individual portions, or make yourself. You’ll have to price it out, and depending on how what kinds of nuts, berries and candies you want in your trail mix, making it yourself could be much cheaper. Bandannas make for excellent containers for your trail mix. Tie them off with twine and add a tag with Love’s Happy Trails or other cute verse, and you’ve got a great cowboy wedding favor.

Beef Jerky Wedding Favor

Beef jerky is another popular choice for a cowboy wedding favor. Buying these from a store or meat market could prove rather expensive, but you can make beef jerky yourself pretty easily at home. There are lots of recipes for it on the Internet, and try a few out until you get a favorite. You can either wrap these in bandannas as well, or use zip lock baggies and then wrap in the bandannas to help keep the jerky fresh.

Cowboy Hat Wedding Favors

Look for deals on buying bulk cowboy hats. They can be straw hats, or even cowboy hats in different colors. Place one at each place setting if you are having tables, and place a card in each hat inviting each guest to wear their new hat to help you celebrate your wedding. If you are not having a dinner, then place them on a central table so that every guest will see that they are meant to take a hat for their own. This makes for some cute pictures!

Cowboy wedding themes are fun for the guests and everyone involved. They’re different, unique and your guests will remember the event for years to come. If you need extra help planning your cowboy wedding, then check out Cowboy Wedding Ideas for more ideas. Happy planning, and if you need more help choosing your cowboy wedding favors then just comment and let me know! Happy wedding planning!

Bookmark Wedding Favors

2008-03-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for that perfect wedding favor for your guests that wont break the budget, then you might also want to consider bookmark wedding favors. Bookmark wedding favors are a great inexpensive wedding favor that you can make yourself, and it’s something that your guests will use for years to come. Not many wedding favors offer that! Many people today believe that wedding favors are unnecessary and a thing of the past In my opinion, making your guests feel welcome and finding a way to thank them for their time and presence will never go out of style. So, if you are looking for help on how to make this great inexpensive wedding favor, then you’ve come to the right place.

Design a Layout

The design most couples use for their bookmark wedding favors is to have their names and wedding date on one side of the book mark, and on the other side either a picture of them, Bible verse, or poem that means something to them. Then, if you have a logo or some other design which relates to your wedding, be sure to add that as well. For example, if you are having a cowboy wedding then add cowboy hats to your bookmark design. Be creative, and have it match your wedding theme.

Print your Bookmarks

Once you have your bookmarks designed, then you will need to print them up. You should be able to fit four bookmarks per page. Then, go to any office supply store and buy heavy duty card stock. You can buy some colored card stock to match the colors in your wedding, or just go with plain white. Plain white still turns out pretty, especially if you want to use a picture on one side. If you are not using a picture then I would suggest getting colored card stock, as it makes your book mark look less plain. You can either print them on a home computer, or take them by any printing shop to have them printed. Once they are printed, you can cut them yourself with scissors, but I recommend buying or borrowing a paper cutter to make them all uniform.

The Finishing Touches

Once you have all of your bookmarks printed up, then they will need to be laminated. You can either take them by a teacher supply store and pay per foot to have them laminated (it’s really not very much), or you can laminate them yourself with those self-stick laminating pages. Cut them out, and put a hole punch near the top of your bookmark. Then, buy some colored ribbon from any fabric store, and tie it off in the punched hole.

Everyone will love these bookmark wedding favors. It is a wedding favor that your guests will use for years to come. You’ll be surprised when you spot family and friends with your bookmark wedding favors in the future. These bookmark wedding favors are a great cheap wedding favor, they take almost no time to complete, you just can’t go wrong with these wedding favors.

Fall Wedding Favors

2008-03-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

As I’ve stated in previous articles, fall is one of my favorite times of the year. Only in fall will you see beautiful foliage, and the many other things that go along with the fall season. While most people choose the warmer spring and summer seasons for their weddings, some people still choose to have fall weddings, celebrating the fall colors and more temperate temperatures. Fall has some of the most beautiful colors, dark oranges, greens and browns. If are planning a fall wedding, you may have everything you need from colors to foods and everything in between, but wedding favors are always another matter. You’ll need to have wedding favors which go along with your fall wedding, and here are some great ideas.

The Smells of Fall

One of the great things about the fall season are are the many smells and scenes of fall. You can easily bring these smells into your wedding reception, as well as incorporate them into your wedding favors. Visit any candle shop and pick out your favorite fall scent. Mine happens to be pumpkin spice, to me, it just isn’t fall without that scent. Pick up enough small candles for each guest, tie ribbons around each candle or place each one in an organza bag, and place one at each place setting. If you like, you can also buy small candle holders for each guest as well and forgo wrapping each candle individually, the choice is yours.

Using Gourds

Another aspect of fall that makes the season stand out so, are pumpkins and other gourds. While many are great just as decorations, pumpkins can be used for both. Another great idea for an original wedding favor is to purchase miniature pumpkins and place one at each place setting so that each of your guests can decorate their homes with a little bit of fall as well.

Famous Fall Treats

A favorite treat in the fall season are candied apples, and it is also something that you can make easily in your home. Buy bags of apples and caramel, and make a party out of it. Invite some friends over to help, and be sure to bring plenty of other goodies to put on the apples, such as nuts or chocolate sauce. Then you can all make them together and decorate each one differently. Wrap them each individually and they will last for some time.

If you need more help planning your fall wedding, then check out my other articles, Decorating for a Fall Wedding, and Choosing Your Wedding Colors for more ideas. And as always, if you ever have any questions or would like something covered that isn’t covered in this article, then please just comment and let me know!

Unique Wedding Favors

2008-03-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

One aspect of bride’s wedding planning which can be a problem is finding unique wedding favors. There are so many ideas, some of which you see done at every wedding, and others that just seem to be a flop and everyone leaves them on the tables rather than take them home. While you don’t want to kill your budget and a huge amount of money on your wedding favors, you also don’t want to rule them out completely. With all the research I’ve been doing on weddings lately, I’ve come across some pretty cool ideas for unique wedding favors. I feel like I’ve seen enough of them to write about that I can do a whole series. So if you are looking for some new and unique wedding favors that you just don’t see around very much, then here are some great ideas to help you get started.

Give them a Treat

One unique wedding favor that I saw, really loved and wished that I had done, was to give my wedding guests a real treat like this unique wedding favor. Here in Texas, Dr. Pepper rules when it comes to soda. Created in Waco, Texas, Dr. Pepper sodas are a favorite among the old and young alike. To go even a step further, the Dr. Pepper factor and bottling company also offers glass bottled Dr. Peppers made with the original imperial sugar cane instead of the syrups. It’s a wonderful thing. They are a little pricier than the cans, but the taste is totally worth it. You can either put them out on the tables, or on one central table for everyone to take one as they are leaving and enjoy at a later day. Trust me, you won’t have any leftovers of this unique wedding favor!!

Give them a “Sause”

No, I did not spell sauce wrong. I’m talking about a particular bar-b-que sauce that is popular here in Texas. There is a great BBQ place here in Texas called Rudy’s. Their restaurants are always located in gas stations, and have some of the best meats and sides that you’ll find anywhere. I had them cater our wedding, and it was excellent. One thing that they are known for is the BBQ “Sause”. Their original sauce is like any other - a little peppery, while their ‘Sissy Sause” is a little lighter on the pepper and still just as popular. A unique wedding favor that I thought of, but because of budget reasons was unable to do was to give a small bottle of sauce to each guest.

Unique wedding favors are everywhere if you can just open your eyes and use a little bit of creativity. There are so many different possibilites for unique wedding favors that going through all of them would just be impossible. These unique wedding favors are Texas favorites, and may not work for your wedding and what you have planned. But I wrote them in with the hopes that my description would jog your memory a little and make you think of something that is a favorite in your particular area.

The Strapless Wedding Dress

2008-03-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

Personally, I hate the strapless wedding dress. And yet, they seem to be all of the rage these days. In my college and now post college days, I have seen more brides in a white strapless dress then any other kind of wedding dress that I can recall. Just look in the marriage announcement section of your newspaper, and you’re sure to see over half if not all of the brides pictured to be wearing a strapless wedding dress. Whatever happened to variety? There are so many elegant necklines available, why does it seem like every bride out there is getting married in a strapless wedding dress? But I digress. When I was doing my wedding planning, the last kind of wedding dress that I wanted was a strapless wedding dress. Yet when I went to bridal shops, it seemed only strapless wedding dresses were offered, with the occasional long sleeved monstrosity or halter. So, in my opinion, here are three reasons why the strapless wedding dress should be avoided.

The Strapless Wedding Dress is Not for Every Body Type

Every woman is created differently, and that includes the shape of her body.

Just how not every girl looks the same in every dress, some women just don’t have the body type to pull off the strapless wedding dress. Don’t decide to go with a strapless wedding dress just because it is the latest style and the model wearing the strapless wedding dress looks great in the pictures. Just as not every dress looks great on every girl, the strapless wedding dress is not made for every body type, and you deserve to look the very best on your wedding day. So when trying on wedding dresses, be sure to try on different types of wedding dresses and necklines to find one that you are most comfortable with and look great in.

The Strapless Wedding Dress is Immodest

Many churches have some sort of dress code when it comes to wedding dresses. This is because a wedding ceremony is a serious and solemn occasion. Don’t get me wrong, weddings are a time to celebrate as well, but the vow they are making to each other before God is very serious. Therefore, many churches have some sort of dress code to help keep respect unto God when you come to the altar. Not only that, but the very seriousness of the occasion, the couple vowing to stay together and support each other throughout their entire lives is a momentous thing. So the custom many churches ask for is that the bride look decorous and dignified, though also beautiful and elegant. It’s hard to be decorous and dignified with three inches of cleavage coming out from the top of your dress and your shoulders uncovered. Don’t get mad at me, it’s just my opinion.

The Strapless Wedding Dress is Overdone

Like I said in the introduction to this article, it seems as though every bride that I’ve seen in the past few years has worn a strapless wedding dress. It’s hard to look unique and different as a bride if you are wearing the same dress as every other bride out there. Oh sure, the strapless wedding dress comes in different lengths with different trains or beading, but the look is essentially the same. Why not find a wedding dress that is totally you? There are so many different beautiful necklines that come on wedding dresses that will flatter and enchant.

My basic point in writing this article is not only to declare my disdain for the strapless wedding dress. While I do hate the strapless wedding dress, I also want to encourage brides this year to choose a different kind of wedding dress. As a bride, you deserve to be beautiful and comfortable on your wedding day. I’ve seen too many brides poured into a strapless wedding dress that is too tight, shows too much cleavage, and leaves their shoulders exposed to last a lifetime. They just look uncomfortable, and it shouldn’t have to be that way.

Wedding Dress Preservation

2008-03-22T13:17:00.000-07:00

One thing you’ll want to look into once you get back from your honeymoon is your wedding dress preservation. Wedding dress preservation is a cleaning process typically done by some dry cleaners that is meant to thoroughly clean your wedding dress and get it ready for storage so that you can keep your wedding dress in prime condition for many years to come. Wedding dress preservation typically isn’t very expensive, and if you want to keep your wedding dress around for many years to come, either to use it later for a daughter or just as a souvenir of your wedding day. Wedding dress preservation will help to keep your wedding dress to be just as beautiful as it was on the day that you wore it. Here are some frequently asked questions about wedding dress preservation and some great storage tips for keeping your wedding dress in top condition.

How Long Does Wedding Dress Preservation Take?

Wedding dress preservation typically takes a couple of weeks to complete. This may seem like a long time, but when you see the finished result of your wedding dress, you’ll understand just why it took so long.

With the intricate beading and many layers of your wedding dress, there is a lot of material and beading to go through to clean and prepare for storage. Despite how long it takes, you’ll have a beautiful cleaned and sealed wedding dress that will be preserved for generations.

How Much Does Wedding Dress Preservation Cost?

I’ve done some research in my area, and have found that for the dry cleaners around here, the cost of wedding dress preservation is typically anywhere from $75-$150. The costs may be different in your area, so be sure to check around to find a quality dry cleaner to take care of your dress. You want to go to a quality dry cleaner for your wedding dress preservation to ensure that they will take very good care of your dress.

How Should I Store My Wedding Dress?

Once your wedding dress preservation is done, it will need to be packed for storage. You can ask the dry cleaner to do it for you, or you can do it yourself if you like. Here are some helpful hints for packing your wedding dress so that it will stay in excellent condition for generations to come. Be sure to store your dress in a cool and dry place, without any metal pins or clips. Wet conditions with metal pins can cause the pins to rust, staining your wedding dress. Also, be sure to use acid free tissue paper and box to prevent any discolorations on your wedding dress as well.

If you want to keep your wedding dress around for any time at all, then it is very important to look into wedding dress preservation. Without it, your dress can get discolored and suffer other damage throughout the years. You should look into wedding dress preservation as quickly as you can after you get back from your honeymoon. This will ensure that you don’t put it off, and to help keep it in great condition for as long as possible.

Wedding Dress Alterations

2008-03-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

Chances are, if you are purchasing your wedding dress from a retailer, then it will not fit the first time you try it on. I know when I was trying on wedding dresses, I had to have someone grab the extra fabric and pull it tighter so that I could see what it would look like after the wedding dress alterations were completed. While I was shopping, I was already shocked by just how much a wedding dress would cost me, and then I saw a chart of how much they charged for wedding dress alterations. It was going to be several hundred dollars just to do a few wedding dress alterations. Now don’t get me wrong, I understand that wedding dresses have a lot of beading and detail to deal with and lots of layers of fabric, but thats a lot of money when you’re also purchasing a wedding dress for close to or over a thousand dollars. Remember that just because you are getting married, it doesn’t give vendors the right to charge you ten times more than what something is worth. So, here are some handy alternatives for having some wedding dress alterations done that won’t break the bank.

Wedding Dress Alterations from a Trusted Tailor

If you only have a few wedding dress alterations that need to be done, such as maybe a hemline or other small change to be made, then you could take it by a trusted tailor for the necessary wedding dress alterations. Before you leave your dress, make sure that they have some kind of experience doing wedding dress alterations, or you could be in a pickle when you come back for your dress. If it is something simple like a hem though, your trusted alteration shop or tailor should work just fine.

Wedding Dress Alterations from a Seamstress

Another great idea to get your wedding dress alterations done is to find a seamstress who specializes in wedding dresses. For example, I chose to design my own wedding dress with a trusted seamstress who can create beautiful wedding dresses. Not only that, but she also can do wedding alterations for ladies who purchase their wedding dress from a shop, and the result is perfection. The best way to find an independent seamstress who can do wedding dress alterations is by word of mouth, but you can also ask around at some sewing or fabric shops. They’re sure to have some business cards of seamstresses who use their shop that they can hand out.

Most people advise that you only use the in-house wedding dress alterations because any other seamstress or tailor will not do a good job and destroy your dress. My opinion, if you have a trusted tailor or seamstress who you know that can sew, talk to them seriously and see if they have any experience with wedding dress alterations. It could save you a lot of money in the end. I know I saved a ton. And I didn’t have my wedding dress alterations done by an in house seamstress.

The Wedding Sundress

2008-03-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

Many brides this year are looking for a casual wedding sundress that they can wear for perhaps a beach or other kind of outdoor wedding of their choosing. A wedding sundress is the perfect kind of wedding dress for a causal wedding that may or may not have a lower budget to work with. It’s a simple fact that not all people out there want the same kind of gigantic traditional wedding, and would rather host a smaller more casual wedding and forgo spending potentially thousands of dollars on a wedding dress, and instead of a simple wedding sundress in which to get married. Finding the perfect wedding sundress can be difficult, I googled it earlier and didn’t find much that could be of use. So if you are planning a casual outdoor wedding and are looking for the perfect wedding sundress to wear, then here are some great places to look.

Look for a Wedding Sundress at a Department Store

Once the spring and summer season start to roll around, many department stores and other clothing stores will start to bring out their spring and summer lines.

Spring and summer clothing lines will typically host many different variety of sundresses of every color under the sun, some of them being all white that you can use for your wedding sundress. The only problem with finding your wedding sundress in a department store is that it could be like looking for a needle in a haystack, and if you do find an all white sundress to use, you may hate the style. But it never hurts to look, so maybe call for a girl’s shopping day with some of your bridesmaids and have them each scour a certain department store looking for white sundresses. This is much more time effective.

Make Your Own Wedding Sundress

If you or any family members have any skill with a needle, and can follow a pattern, then you may want to consider making your wedding sundress by yourself, or with the help of an experienced seamstress. Scour fabric stores and the Internet for a style of a pattern that you like, and the material shouldn’t cost much at all. With an experienced seamstress, you should also be able to make any little changes to the pattern you like, such as maybe a longer skirt or different sleeves. You’ll find that when you make your own wedding dress, you could save up to fifty times as much money as someone who purchases their wedding dress from a popular bridal boutique.

Other Wedding Sundress Tips

There are a few important things to consider when planning an outdoor wedding with a wedding sundress. First of all, if you are creating an all white cotton wedding sundress to wear, be sure to consider the lighting. A long slip would definitely be in order. Also, be sure to consider the time of day you will be married. If you are planning a beach wedding at sunset, and are wearing a wedding sundress, be sure to consider that those winds coming in could cause a chill, making you uncomfortable.

With more and more couples choosing to have a causal wedding and save some dough for after the wedding, the wedding sundress is definitely in this year for casual weddings. Consider your options carefully on if you want to try and find your wedding sundress in a department store, thrift store, or other clothing boutique, or if you want to create your wedding sundress by yourself.

Traditional Wedding Dresses - Past and Present

2008-03-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Ask any little girl in school or at play, and she can tell you all about traditional wedding dresses. That’s not only because little girls are dreaming of their dream weddings so early, and trust me, they are. It’s because from the time we women are just little girls, we have an idea of our dream wedding dresses, or at least what traditional wedding dresses should look like. Maybe it’s because of weddings we attend where we see the beautiful white flowing gown the bride is wearing, or maybe it’s just a part of our daily play routine to dress up in white pillow cases playing make believe that we were wearing the many beautiful traditional wedding dresses that we have available to us today. No matter where the idea of traditional wedding dresses came from, there are traditional wedding dresses that every woman can describe. But believe it or not, traditional wedding dresses used to look much different. Here are some great facts about traditional wedding dresses, where they came from and more.

Traditional Wedding Dresses - Looking Into the Past

Wearing white traditional wedding dresses is still relatively knew, it started back in the Victorian era. Before that, brides wore all different colors and materials which varied due to their social standing and their own view of traditional wedding dresses.

In the more ancient days, brides chose to wear bright colored wedding dresses to symbolize their happiness and joy at the wedding. Medieval brides had to dress in a manner that set her family in a favorable light, for she was representing her family on her wedding day. Thus, traditional wedding dresses for medieval brides in well to do society consisted of wearing layers of velvet, silk, and even furs, while those brides of a lower social standing wore more simple fabrics. Wearing white did not signify purity as it did today, blue did. In those days, blue was the color of traditional wedding dresses, and the height of wedding dress fashion. Then, in 1840 Queen Victoria got married wearing a beautiful white wedding dress, and the trend soon caught on.

Traditional Wedding Dresses - Present Day

These days, traditional wedding dresses are white. In fact, these days the vision of white creating the most traditional wedding dresses is so ingrained in our culture that it is very rare for brides to get married in any other color. While many brides may choose to add a splash of color or other type of design to their wedding dress, a majority of brides see traditional wedding dresses as being all white, floor-length bridal gowns. Many shades of white have also become acceptable wedding dress colors for traditional wedding dresses, from ivory to off white, and various shades of cream. It is considered bad luck and often frowned upon to get married in any other color besides the typical white traditional wedding dresses.

Today many traditional wedding dresses are starting to get a new look. While many brides choose to stay with the traditional wedding dresses being white only, other brides are experimenting with the look of adding a bit of color to their wedding dresses to help make them stand out from the crowd. Will our society ever go back to the blues, greens and pink wedding dresses that made up our history so long ago? Hard to tell, but brides most certainly still consider an all white color to be the most traditional wedding dresses.

10 Wedding Day Disasters - and How to Avoid Them

2008-03-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

It’s every bride’s worst fear, the one thing that keeps her up at night worrying. Will something go wrong at the wedding ceremony, and is there anything that she can do to keep everything from happening? Here are some of the worst fears brides face Â and how to avoid them. And here they are, in no particular order, the top worst wedding day fears and how to make sure they don’t happen to you!

1. What if My Wedding Dress Doesn’t Fit?

This is a huge nightmare for brides, especially if they are trying to lose weight before the wedding day. Make sure the dress is fit to your measurements, and try it on every time after you have something new done to it. Even something as simple as a new zipper or having it taken in could alter how the dress fits, or if the zipper will get stuck.

2. What if the Caterer Doesn’t Show Up?

This was definitely a concern for me, as our whole wedding reception was a dinner, and the caterer was coming in from out of town. The best way to get over this is to be in communication with whoever you have to cater your reception. Call them the day before to confirm, fax them directions and a map to your location, and let them know which doors they can use, what time to show up, and where to set up.

3. What if I Fall Down on My Face?

Walking down the aisle in front of hundreds of people, it’s got to cross your mind at one point or another, especially if you have to go up and down any stairs. Choose some wedding shoes that are comfortable and that you can easily walk in, and break them in before your wedding day. Walk carefully!

4. What if Something Happens to the Wedding Cake?

We’ve all seen the movies where a beautiful tiered wedding cake falls onto someone’s or collapses, or someone falls into the top of it. What a nightmare that would be, right? Make sure the wedding cake table is away from all areas of heavy activity, like a dance floor.

5. Distractions During the Wedding Ceremony?

If you are having small children in your wedding ceremony such as flower girls or ring bearers, expect the unexpected. Choose a child that is old enough for the responsibility and not afraid of large groups of people, and have their parents explain to them what they can and can not do. Bring activity bags for them for use during down times so they aren’t bored. Luckily, most children are so charming and cute and much can be forgiven in this area.

6. Tux Problems?

It is usually the job of the best man to pick up the tuxes, but be sure to designate who will actually pick them up. Ideally, they should all be picked up at the same location to keep things from getting complicated. Have the groom try on his tux immeadiately after picking it up to make sure everything fits and that he has everything he needs. There is nothing like picking up a tux, and on the morning of the wedding figuring out you only have two left shoes or some other problem.

7. What About the DJ?

If you choose to hire a DJ for the wedding, they are typically experienced in working weddings. Get them a list of songs you want them to play for dancing, such as the first dance, the parents dance, etc. Also, be sure to give them a list of songs that you do NOT want them to play so there aren’t any embarrassing moments.

8. What if I Mess Up While Talking?

Theres nothing like sticking your foot in your mouth, and you definitely don’t want to do it during your wedding ceremony. Everyone has seen the Friends episode where Ross called his bride the wrong name by mistake. Calm down, speak slowly and focus on you and your spouse and your wedding day!

9. What if Nobody Shows Up?

Another wedding day nightmare that crosses every bride’s mind at one point or another. The best you can do to solve this one is send out RSVP cards in plenty of time and make a list. Not everyone who RSVP’s will make the wedding, just like people will come who did not RSVP. Rest assured that those closest to you will come, and your groom will come, and that is really all you need.

10. There is Going to be Alcohol, What if Something Happens?

If you choose to have alcohol at your wedding, then this thought surely has crossed your mind. There is always the drunk uncle somewhere who makes a scene, says or does something that could potentially be embarrassing. You can either not have alcohol and use punch instead, or you can limit the amount of alcohol at your wedding. This can be done by only having a few types of alcohol there, such as champagne or wine, or some other signiture drink, and make sure only 21 and up are drinking!

Remember though, just because you plan and plan doesn’t mean that you can eliminate all possibility of something going wrong on your wedding day. Just remember to keep a light heart, it is your wedding day, and no matter what happens, you will still be marrying your best friend. Trust me, even wedding day disasters are something that you can laugh at later, and make your wedding day memorable to all involved.

Make an Emergency Wedding Day Kit

2008-03-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

Even though nothing will probably happen on your wedding day, it’s always best to be prepared for the worst. It’s a good idea to create an emergency wedding day kit just in case something happens which no one is prepared for. You’ll never know when something might happen, and instead of freaking out and running around adding extra stress, wouldn’t it be so much nicer to just go to your Emergency Wedding Day Kit, pull out what you need, and then go on with your day? So, here is a compiled list of everything you should consider packing in your emergency wedding day kit, look through it, not all of it will be necessary depending on your situation, but then again, it’s always best to be prepared.

Hair Products - If you are going somewhere to get your hair done before the ceremony, then you will want to pack an assortment of hairspray, hair gel, as well as extra bobby pins and a brush just in case something comes loose during the day. I was able to bypass this part of my emergency wedding day kit since I had someone come to the church and do my hair and make-up, and they stayed there until a few minutes before the ceremony began, which was a total blessing!

Make-Up Products - Be sure to bring a small make up kit with eye-liner, lipstick that could wear off during the day if you don’t have the permenant kind, powder to keep the shine away, and mascara. You will want to freshen up before the ceremony to look great for all of those pictures. If you have had your nails done, you may also want to bring along some nail polish and a file in case you chip one of them during the day.

Medications - To ward off headaches, stomach aches, and everything else that accompanies stress, bring some Tylenol, or other preferred pain releavers. You may also want to bring some eye drops, saline in case you lose a contact, smelling salts if you are prone to fainting, and band-aids just in case.

Sewing Kit/Dress Repair - It is always a good idea to bring along an extra pair of nylons in case you put a run in yours, hem tape in case something comes loose, and a small sewing kit including scissors, thread, buttons, and some safety pins just in case. Some suggest bringing shout wipes, or some other kind of stain remover in case you spill something on your dress, but you might want to test beforehand to make sure it won’t leave a mark on your dress. White chalk is also good to pack in your emergency wedding day kit in case you put a scuff on your pretty white shoes. It will cover up the mark, but does wear off, so be sure to re-apply.

Snacks - Be sure to bring some healthy snacks in case you get hungry before the wedding, and make sure its something that isn’t going to be too messy. Bring straws for your drinks so that you have less chance of spilling on your dress.

Miscellaneous - With so many women around, you might want to pack some sanitary products just in case in your emergency wedding day kit, along with extra corsage pins, toothbrush and toothpaste or breathmints to help freshen up before the ceremony, extra tissue or hankys, and some money just in case you need it.

If you have a wedding planner, they should either have an emergency wedding day kit made up for you, or will be able to help you assemble your own. If you are having an outdoor wedding, you will need other items in your emergency wedding day kit than what is listed below. My advice if you don’t have a wedding planner helping you, get a medium sized rubbermaid box and pack it early, and store it up at your ceremony location a day or more before the ceremony, if possible. You don’t need the stress of forgetting your emergency wedding day kit in the case of an emergency.

My Bridal Hair and Make-up Story

2008-03-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not real great at doing my own hair. To tell the truth, all I can really do is a pony tail, or maybe on a good day I can do this little french twist thing with a couple off bobby pins. For some reason curling irons never do what I want them to do, and my flat iron just doesn’t work with me either. Lucky for me my husband likes my hair down and straight, and that is easy enough for me to handle. And while we are being truthful here, I don’t really even like wearing make-up all that much. I’ll put some base and eyeliner on for a special occasion, but anything else I’m pretty lost on. So I knew that for my wedding I would have to either enlist a friend with those talents, or hire an expert to help me out. After some minor research I found an expert in both hair and make-up nearby who could help me out.

This lady I found would come out to my wedding site and do my hair and make-up. She would also stay right up until the wedding started in case something went wrong or some pins came loose. Not only that, but she was also there on site and available to work with my bridesmaids and get their hair and make-up done as well if they needed it. This saved both me and my bridesmaids a lot of time and stress having to make appointments at a salon and then be back in time for pictures. Not only that, I didn’t have to worry about getting from the salon to the church while keeping my hair in place. This method worked out the best for me since not only was I unable to do the work myself, I was also able to not have something else to worry about. This may not be the best route for everyone though.

Some women can do their make-up well, and don’t need someone to come in and help them with that. If you can do your own make-up, and own all the make up you need to get the look you want for your wedding, then do it yourself and save the money. I just knew the extent of my talent at make-up, and knew that I needed some help. Also, if you have a friend who can do hair well, and is willing to take the time to do your hair for the wedding, then show her pictures of what you’d like and have her try and do it for you. A couple of practice sessions may be in order. With all the expenses of your wedding, I know how brides need to save money where they can, and this is one of those areas. If you can do your own make-up, and get someone to do your hair for you, then I say go for it. Unfortunately this was something I had to spend the money on because I knew that there was no way I could do it myself.

Get Free Wedding Tips Automatically!

2008-03-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

One great resource that I can offer my readers is the ability to sign up for an RSS feed from my site. In fact, if you’ve spent any time on my site, you notice that big square orange button in my side bar that allows people to sign up for my feed. Not sure what this means? Don’t worry, a lot of people out there don’t know either. And since they don’t know, they miss the opportunity to save some precious time! With an RSS feed, you can easily take advantage of signing up for your favorite blog’s RSS feeds, which can be a huge advantage for you. If you are wondering what an RSS feed is, then let me explain it real quick, and why it can be so beneficial for you to take advantage of.

What is an RSS Feed?

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication (really!). Syndication for the web, defined by Wikipedia, is web feeds which make a portion of the website available to other sites and subscribers. This means, when you sign up for my RSS feed, you are basically signing up to be on my automated update list. This means that whenever I post an article to my site, you will receive a copy of it in your favorite feed reader so that you won’t miss anything.

What is a Feed Reader?

A feed reader is software that you can use to track multiple RSS feeds at one time, in one place. One popular feed reader is bloglines.com. You can sign up for a free account with them, and then you’ll have the ability to track several feeds from your favorite websites and blogs that offer RSS, and you can see all your site’s favorite articles from a single page. Nice huh? Some good news is that you have several different choices with regard to feed readers you can use. Notice next to my RSS feed button in the sidebar that you’ll see an icon for Bloglines, Add to Google, My Yahoo, Newsgator, and My AOL. If you click on one of these icons, it will take you to a screen that will allow you to easily add my feed to your choice. So, for example, since I use Yahoo for my email, I would want to click the My Yahoo button so that I can read my email and see the feeds from my favorite websites all on one page. They won’t show up as messages in your email, instead, they will be located under the Feed called “Wedding Help”, so that you can view them when you want to. If you want the messages to show up as email in your box, then simply click on the big orange button, and on the next screen, choose “Get Wedding Help delivered by email”, enter your email address and verification, and you’re off and running.

Why RSS is so Cool!

First of all, RSS feeds are totally free! Also, RSS feeds are so great because they allow you view lots of different feeds quickly and easily, without having to remember a bunch of different web addresses, and time spent surfing the Internet. Wedding Help offers an RSS feed for those who don’t always have time to come and check out the most recent articles. I know how busy planning a wedding can be, but you don’t want to miss out on some great articles that could potentially save you a bunch of money, or solve a big problem for you. This is a great resource to take advantage of to keep you abreast of everything going on. Sign up for it today, if you have any problems or have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to write in and let me know!

What are Some Alternatives for the Unity Candle?

2008-03-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

The unity candle is used in wedding ceremonies as a symbol of two becoming one, two individual people and personalities now being formed into one. Your unity candle can be as ornate or as simple as you like. They come with large ornate candle holders, personalized candles, or decorated in any way that you like, and the choices really are endless. Many today however are choosing not to use a unity candle at all, but instead choosing different ways to symbolize their new unity in marriage. It may be because of some churches having rules about lighting candles that make it tricky or impossible, or even just the bride and groom’s personal preference. If you are looking for some unity candle alternatives, here are some other alternatives you can use to help make your wedding ceremony all your own!

Sand Ceremony

In this type of ceremony, the bride and groom both pour different colors of sand into a container which is sealed after the ceremony, and can be kept as a great decoration and
centerpiece for years to come. I attended a wedding not too long ago where the bride and groom poured orange and blue sand into the container, and it turned out absolutely beautiful. After the unity candle, the sand ceremony is perhaps the most popular. They are also very popular in beach themed weddings, or other Outdoor Weddings, see my other article, Outdoor Wedding Ideas - Part 1.

Water Ceremony

With a water ceremony, the bride and groom both pour a different color of water into a glass, which then creates a new color in the glass. This is again, the symbol of two people becoming one, and creating a whole new ‘person’ or family. The water is typically discarded after the ceremony.

Rose Ceremony

I’ve heard of this being done in several different ways, and you can take any of these methods and twist them to fit your own preferences. In one method, the bride and groom each have a rose of a different color that they put into a vase. The roses are dried after the ceremony and placed back into the vase. Then, on every anniversary afterwards, the bride and groom place another rose into the vase while repeating their wedding vows to each other. Another method for a rose ceremony includes the exchanging of roses between the bride and groom. Another variation of this ceremony is to have the bride and groom exchange roses with their families, have the bride and groom exchange the roses, and then present their mothers with the roses.

There are plenty of choices you can look at when choosing which type of unity ceremony you want in your wedding. There are also plenty of ceremonies from other cultures that you can look into, if you want something totally new and different from everyone else’s wedding ceremony.

Wedding Aisle Runners

2008-03-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

I’ve said it before in previous articles, but when I was doing my wedding planning, the last thing I really thought about for our wedding was the church decorations.Â So the week before the wedding I was hurriedly making pew bows and choosing how I wanted to decorate the altar with columns and flower arrangements.Â Needless to say, I wouldn’t recommend that option to most brides out there, as last minute arrangements like that can get a little stressful. One of the debates going on in my mind during that week was whether or not I needed or wanted wedding aisle runners for the church, when to lay them out, and other issues involving the wedding aisle runners logistics. So if you’re wondering if you should use wedding aisle runners, and are looking for some advice then you’ve come to the right place.

Personally, I’m glad that I chose to use wedding aisle runners. It really added a lot to the way the church looked, and honestly if the wedding aisle runner hadn’t of been there, the church would have looked a little empty. I looked around, and found a local party store that carried wedding aisle runners, and they were all around $10. Not a huge price to pay for the elegance and beauty that they can add to your wedding ceremony.Â Now for the logistics piece of it.

You can really work your wedding aisle runners any way you’d like to. I chose to have two of our ushers extend the wedding aisle runner to the front after the last bridesmaid had taken her place at the front. Now, I placed the aisle runner roll at the back, and had them run it to the front, but you can do it the other way too if you’d like, it’s all a matter of preference. But the wedding aisle runner was in place before my Dad and I stepped into the church.

Like I said before, I can’t tell you how much the wedding aisle runner added to the church.Â Wedding aisle runners can be used in outdoor weddings, indoor weddings, in any place the bride and groom will be walking. If you’re wondering if wedding aisle runners are right for you, only you can answer that.Â But they really made a difference in our wedding, and I’d highly suggest them.

Wedding Ceremony Songs

2008-03-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

I believe one of the last things I did while I was doing my wedding planning was to come up with a list of wedding ceremony songs that I wanted to use. This isn’t because it wasn’t very important to me, or that I had forgotten about it until the last minute, I just didn’t know much about the songs typically played in weddings, and I was sure which songs I wanted to have sung as specials during the wedding either. I believe I literally met with the pianist and the couple doing the specials probably about two days before the wedding to go over the wedding ceremony songs that I wanted. If you are working on picking out your wedding ceremony songs and need some help, then here are the main times in your wedding ceremony that you’ll need to have wedding ceremony songs picked out for, and what I did for each area.

Wedding Ceremony Songs for the Guest’s Entrance

About half an hour before the wedding ceremony was to begin, we asked the pianist to play wedding ceremony songs that were classic love songs, such as “You are so Beautiful”, and “The Way You Look Tonight”. I didn’t go through with her to pick out every one of those wedding ceremony songs because if you think about it, there are a lot of songs that fit into a thirty minute time frame. So I gave her some of my favorites, and she played those plus others that were well liked as well.

Wedding Ceremony Songs for the Seating of the Parents and Grandparents

After all the guests are seated and it is time for the wedding ceremony to begin, you’ll want to have a noticeable silence, and then head into the wedding ceremony song you have chosen for the seating of the parents and the grandparents. The reason for the silence, and then the song is to let the guests know that the wedding ceremony has begun. There are lots of great wedding ceremony songs for this, and I chose to use “On Wings of Song” by Felix Mendelssohn. It’s beautiful. This song was also re-played while my husband and I lit the unity candle and prayed together on a prayer bench we had set up.

Wedding Ceremony Songs for the Processional

Once the parents and grandparents are seated, then you will want to have a wedding ceremony song chosen for the entrance of the groom and his groomsmen, and the bridesmaids. Perhaps the most popular wedding ceremony song for a processional is the “Canon in D” by Johann Pacuelbel, which is what we used as well. It’s a classic.

Wedding Ceremony Songs for the Entrance of the Bride

Now, typically most brides want to enter in to the Bridal Chorus, which is the traditional music brides walk down the aisle to. There are many couples I know though, who prefer to walk the aisle to another song, such as “Someday my Prince will Come”, or other such songs, and there is nothing wrong with it. The same goes for the recessional. You can go with the traditional “Wedding March” like I did, or choose your own song.

Wedding Ceremony Songs for Specials

One thing I really wanted to have in our wedding ceremony were specials sung by friends of mine in the church. They sing beautifully together, and they had a CD written and performed by friends of theirs that were Christian love songs, beautiful and one of a kind. I listened to the CD, and then asked them to perform my favorite songs. So we had two specials in our wedding ceremony, to the songs of “I Delighted in the Lord (and He gave me you)”, and “With all my Heart”.

Going through the list of wedding ceremony songs to use for your wedding can be daunting, because there are a lot of them out there. Luckily, I had a pianist who was excellent and knowledgeable about what kinds of songs are typically used in weddings, and she could play all of them, and friends who also knew a lot about music, and had the patience to go through and play all of the different wedding ceremony songs for me. Your wedding ceremony songs really help to set the mood for your wedding ceremony, and I was so thankful to have such great help with that.

Themed Table Centerpieces

2008-03-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most difficult part of wedding planning that I had to deal with was what to use to as the main centerpiece on my tables for the reception. The flowers I was finding were too expensive for all the tables, and I couldn’t use candles with the strict codes the building enforced, and that really didn’t leave me too much to work with. I kept thinking that if I had been planning a themed wedding ceremony and reception, then I would have more options to choose from. After talking to family and friends though, I found out that even a themed wedding can be difficult to decorate. So, after much research and attending weddings and looking at ideas, here is a great list of possible wedding centerpieces for themed weddings.

1. The Western Theme

I must admit, being a Texan girl, this theme is my favorite, and I’ve seen it done all kinds of ways. The favorite one I’ve seen, by far was boots. Go shopping in some thrift stores and see if you can find cowboy boots, any size will work, the more beat up the better. Add small bales of hay, with either one or a pair of boots decorated around it or on top of it gives off that great rustic feeling you are looking for. Tie a bandana around one of the boots, or add a cowboy hat at some tables for some variety. You can also make many of the tables different, with old rustic washboards, spurs, lengths of coiled rope, antique looking lanterns, use your imagination. Another great idea is some rustic looking metal tins filled with peanuts, or some other western snack.

2. The Beach Theme

Beach weddings are perhaps the most popular theme for weddings today, mainly because people want that tropical feeling without having to go to the beach. Centerpieces for a beach themed wedding can be really beautiful. Pour a small amount of sand on each table, accompanied by shells or starfish from any craft store is a great simple centerpiece, or you can add small white tea lights to the mixture as well, for a more romantic glow. For a touch of fun, add one of those hula girls you can stick on your dashboard, and you could also use plastic lei’s bought at any party store. A friend of mine added tiki torches at some of the chairs from each table, and that was a great effect, really beautiful.

3. A Christmas Wedding

Christmas weddings are getting more and more popular, and they should be really easy to decorate as well since Christmas decorations can be purchased inexpensively practically anywhere. If you’re short on time, then try and borrow decorations from friends and family. Some great table centerpieces for a Christmas wedding can include miniature Christmas tress with tree skirts, large Christmas wrapped boxes, fake snow, and much more! Also, plastic cranberries can be added to candle holders or spread around on the table, they are really beautiful and add a great touch of color as well.

4. The Casual Wedding

Many couples choose to go with a casual wedding meaning that the wedding is a “come your jeans and sneakers and let’s have a bar-b-que in the backyard” kind of wedding. It’s simple, not concerned with dressing up or trying to impress, just having family and friends together and comfortable while celebrating the wedding. Flower baskets on each table is a great, simple yet beautiful centerpiece with can be easily maintained and will last for time to come! Or, flower pots with some natural flowers growing, such as tulips, gerber daisys, or ferns are beautiful and will add some color. For the more practical, you can also add iced tea and water pitchers in bright colors for guests to help themselves to the refreshments.

5. The Mideval Wedding

Amazingly enough, another popular wedding theme. I’ve had two friends just in the past month get married with a mideval themed wedding, and it was certainly like nothing I had ever been to before. A great table centerpiece for a mideval wedding can include a large silver candleabra with tall drippy candles, or oil lantern inside a wreath of flowers, very classy.

When choosing your wedding centerpiece, choose something that is moderately easy to set up if you and your family are setting up everything yourself. This will save a lot of hassle for everyone involved. Use your imagination, get creative, and you will have a beautiful table to go along with your beautiful wedding. If the wedding you are planning isn’t listed above, and you’d like some help, write and let me know.

Pink and Brown Centerpieces

2008-03-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

Pink and brown are perhaps the most popular wedding colors of the year, and if it keeps going as it is, then pink and brown will be the top wedding colors for next year as well. Every day I get hundreds of people coming to my site looking for new ideas for pink and brown wedding decorations, and pink and brown centerpieces. Personally, I think that is because brides think that their options are limited to finding brown wedding decorations. Here are some great ideas from some of my other articles on decorating for your pink and brown wedding, Pink Wedding Receptions, Pink and Brown Weddings, and Using Coffee Beans as Wedding Decorations. Here are some great ideas for pink and brown centerpieces.

1. Cherry Blossoms

As I mentioned in my Pink and Brown Weddings article, I love the idea of using cherry blossoms as wedding centerpieces. If you don’t know what they look like, then there is a picture of them in that article as well. This pink and brown centerpiece can be done several ways. One way is to acquire long branches of cherry blossoms and place a handful of them in a tall vase at each table. They are graceful and will add a lot of color and depth to your room. Another idea is to get smaller branches and submerge them completely in a vase of water. I’ve seen it done before, and it is a very classy and simple centerpiece.

2. Pink and Brown Flowers

Believe it or not, there are some flowers that do come in a brownish color, and still look nice and alive. There is a shade of calla lily you can get that does have a brownish tint to it, as well as a Hydrangea. Talk to your florist for more information, but you do always have the option have having small pink and brown bouquets at each table.

3. Coffee Beans

Coffee beans can be bought relatively cheaply in bulk, and they make a great wedding table centerpiece. You can purchase or rent large hurricane vases and fill them to about a third full, and then place pink candles into the beans. Light the candles and you have a soft romantic glow over your wedding reception.

4. Candles

Another spin on the above idea is to purchase large brownish colored candles and place them on a large mirror or other base. Then, to add a splash of pink, either tie a pink ribbon around the candle, or sprinkle pink rose petals around the candle and table as well. Rose petals can also be bought in bulk rather cheaply, and make a great addition to your tables.

5. Potted Plants

Another great idea that I have seen is to buy some terra cotta pots and plant pink flowers yourself in them. If you have a green thumb this one should be great for you. If you don’t want the grow them yourself and are worried that they will die before the wedding, then just buy some already grown potted plants and transfer them into a terra cotta pot, or some other brownish color if you can find it. Then, tie some ribbons around the pot or cover the pot completely with a pink and brown fabric. This one is great if you are creative.

There are plenty of ideas out there for pink and brown centerpieces if you’ll use your imagination. You are not limited because of your wedding colors, but by how much you are willing to work and find something totally unique to you and your wedding! If you have any other ideas you’d like to share, please comment and let us know!

Wedding Cake Topper

2008-03-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

Remember the old fashioned wedding cake topper that consisted of a little plastic miniature of a bride and groom on top of an all white cake? The little bride and groom may have been under a little arch or just standing by themselves. Personally, I don’t think I’ve ever seen this kind of wedding cake topper actually used in a wedding, but then again, that could just be me. Brides today are going for different, unique and something different than what their parents and grandparents have done for years. Wedding cake toppers are a great way to add some extra style and grace to your wedding cake. There are many different kinds of wedding cake toppers you can choose from, and here are some great ideas of some popular choices today.

Fresh Flowers

Flowers are always a popular choice for wedding cakes. They add grace and beauty to your wedding cake as well as having the added benefit of giving off a bit of color to match your other wedding colors. Fresh flowers are something you can work out with your florist to handle. You can have flowers on top of your cake as well as cascading down the side, or placed on each layer of your wedding cake. The choices are endless, and if you want to go this way, talk to your florist and bakery, and they will have plenty of ideas of what you can do, and what they have done in the past.

Your New Monogram

This is something that my husband and I used on our wedding cake. I visited several sites on the Internet and ordered letters to create our new families monogram. Then, it was very simple to just push it down into the cake, and the effects were beautiful. The only thing you need to consider here is how wide the letters are, and the circumference of the top layer of your cake. If you look at the picture above, that is a picture of our wedding cake, and what the monogram looks like on the cake.

Miscellaneous

One thing that brides love to do today is to make everything unique to them. I’ve seen firefighter brides stick small fire engines on their wedding cake, and I’ve even seen fruit used as wedding cake toppers as well. Colored leaves for fall, plastic cranberries and pine cones for a Christmas wedding, and even a small cowboy hat for a cowboy wedding.

Wedding cake toppers are beautiful, and they really add a lot to your wedding cake. Many people today are also choosing not to have a wedding cake topper at all. Depending on the kind of wedding cake that you choose, you may not need a wedding cake topper. See my article on Wedding Cake Designs for other ways you can decorate your wedding cake. Consider your wedding cake, your tastes, and what you love before making your decision. As always, if you need more information or advice, feel free to comment and let me know!

White Wedding Cake?

2008-03-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

But I Don’t Like White Wedding Cake!

We really had a dilemma when it came to wedding cakes. First and foremost, I love chocolate more than just about any other flavor out there with a close second being strawberry, and so when I was planning my wedding, the last thing that I wanted was a white wedding cake with white frosting. In my mind, if that was going to be the case, then I would just resign myself to enjoy the groom’s cake (which was chocolate on chocolate, with chocolate covered strawberries) and only have a bite of my beautiful but still vanilla wedding cake. Oddly enough, my husband hates chocolate, and getting him a chocolate groom’s cake didn’t seem to make too much sense either. So that made me start to wonder, does the bride have to have a white/vanilla wedding cake?

Now, I’m really big into tradition, and I wanted a white wedding cake….but just not the vanilla flavoring and bland white cake. No thank you. I sat down and had a talk with the lady who would be baking our wedding cakes, and we had a long discussion about it, and I absolutely love what we came up with. The icing on the brides cake was of course still white, but she was able to add tiny sugar flowers to the outside to help spice it up, and it matched my wedding colors. Then, each layer of my wedding cake was a different flavor. Fun huh? For example, I had a strawberry layer of wedding cake, a chocolate layer, and yes even a vanilla layer. The cake was delicious, and everyone got to have the kind of wedding cake that was their favorite, even me!

While I still believe the bride’s cake should be predominately white, there are so many ways you can dress up a white cake, such as with ribbons, fresh flowers, sugar flowers, other colored icing swirls or polka dots, the sky is really the limit on this one to make your wedding cake completely you. Check out my article on Wedding Cake Designs for some ideas. In the end, I think that you should be able to distinguish which cake is the brides and which is the grooms, but with all the different possibilities out there, it shouldn’t be that difficult. Wedding cakes have really become a work of art in and of themselves, if you do any research and look at pictures of wedding cakes you’ll agree with me. The best thing is, I can honestly say that I loved my wedding cake!

Wedding Cake Designs

2008-03-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

You’ve got to admit it, cake designers are getting pretty creative these days. Wedding cake designs are not just limited to plain white wedding cakes with white icing flowers and a plain old wedding cake topper on top anymore. No way, wedding cake designs you’ll notice now are showing wedding cakes in all sorts of shapes, designs, colors, and accessories. If you can dream up your ideal wedding cake design, then chances are that some bakery or baker will be able to make it up to your specifications. But, there can be a downside. With so many choices in wedding cake designs, what happens when you just can’t choose the one you want for your wedding, or find that perfect wedding cake design picture that goes along with your dream wedding cake? Here are some basics of wedding cake designs that you’ll need to decide, and other accessories you can use.

Wedding Cake Designs - The Tiers

One of the first things you’ll need to be deciding when talking to your bakery about wedding cake designs in what kind of tiers you want on your wedding cake, how big (in diameter) the tiers should be, and how many tiers you’ll need. The number of guests you are expecting for your wedding is a great indicator on how many tiers and how large each tier should be. Your bakery should be able to tell you approximately how many servings you’ll have with the different number of tiers and the sizes of each tier. Now for what kind of tiers. The two basic kind of tiers you choose from are round tiers or square tiers. Then, if you choose square tiers, you’ll need to decide if you want them all straight, or to have each tier turned for a more funky look. To help you choose your wedding cake designs in this area, your bakery should be able to show you what each wedding cake design would look like.

Wedding Cake Designs - Colors and Flavors

Next, when choosing from the different wedding cake designs, you’ll need to decide what flavor of cake you want, if you want any kind of filling, and what flavor and color you’d like the icing to be. These cake flavors, depending on your bakery of course, can be any flavor that you choose. See my article on White Wedding Cakes to see what I did, and how you can have fun with your wedding cake flavors.

Wedding Cake Designs - Decorations

This is really where bakeries get creative for their wedding cake designs. There are so many different ways to decorate wedding cakes, that I don’t even know if I can cover them all, but I’ll try. You can choose a wedding cake design that is done purely of icing or fondant. Basket weave is a popular decoration for cakes, as well as polka dots or stripes. Also, my bakery used sugar flowers of different colors poked into the icing (see the picture in my Wedding Cake Topper article for a picture of my cake). Or, you can use fresh flowers, ribbon, crystals, or even fake pearls lining each tier. The number of wedding cake designs is limited only to your imagination, so plan away.

There are lots of wedding cake designs to choose from, and it took me long time to find the one I wanted. In fact, I even changed my order a few weeks before the wedding when I found a picture of a wedding cake design that I liked better than the one I had. So take your time, find a wedding cake design that you really love, and enjoy !

Wedding Planning to Cut Costs Part 1

2008-03-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

When I was doing my wedding planning, it always amazed me just how expensive everything was. It seemed that if it had a wedding or bridal label on it, than it would cost twice the amount of everything else. Now, in all reality maybe it was just stress from wedding planning that made everything seem so expensive, but if you’ve done any kind of wedding planning, then you know what I’m talking about. The fact is, vendors realize that because they are in the wedding business and that brides will pay more for their products because it is for a special occasion. So, to keep from getting taken by all of those wedding vendors out there to make a buck, here are some great tips to saving money to use on something more important, like…the honeymoon!

1. Invitations - Most craft stores will sell sets of wedding invitations that you can print off from your computer. Get a hole punch, add some ribbon to tie off into a bow, and no one will know the difference. Another idea, create a free wedding website that guests can RSVP to, and you will save money in return stamped envelopes.

2. Flowers - This is one thing I should have done, but didn’t. I spent far too much money with my florist, and wasn’t real thrilled with what I got. On top of that, with the cost of my florist, I didn’t get as many flowers as I had wanted. There are many wholesale flower shops around, do some research in your area, you can purchase for a fraction of the cost as a florist. Create some hand tied bouquets the night before and refrigerate overnight, and place the others in vases for decorations. Also, boutineers and corsages are not difficult to make, check it out on the Internet or craft book. Another idea is to use artificial flowers as well as natural flowers for decoration. They can be made long in advance, and when done right can look just as beautiful.

3. Wedding Dress - I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, custom made wedding dresses are the only way to go! I had my dress made, and it was made to fit me, so there were no alteration costs, only the cost of the material and a flat fee to the seamstress. I was very pleased, and no one could tell. For other articles about a custom made wedding dress, check out The Custom Made Wedding Dress. If you don’t want to go that route, check out sales from wedding boutiques and shops, or look on the internet. You can find a great deal if you look hard enough.

4. Food - To save money, most brides make a dessert and coffee or a snack and punch reception. This is fine, there is nothing wrong with it at all. Just be sure you’re not feeding your guests crackers and cheese when the wedding is at a time when they would normally be eating a larger meal. Example, a friend of mine was married a while ago, and served a dessert and coffee reception, but the ceremony started at 6:30 pm and went late. Most of the guests were starving by the time the ceremony was finished, and the thought of only eating cake and coffee made them skip the reception and run out to a restaurant. Just be considerate of your guests. If you are set on a dinner, look for a nearby restaurant that will cater. They will typcially provide plates, napkins, cups and silverware, though they may be plastic. A caterer may set a fancier table, but you will pay dearly.

5. Wedding Favors - Most brides cut out the wedding favors to save money, but you don’t need to do that. You also don’t need to buy each of your wedding guests a silver frame or some other such extravagance. You can shop around on the internet or party stores near you and find a deal on containers, then fill them with candy, smelly stuff, or whatever you like, check out my articles with unique wedding favor ideas.

There are plenty of places to save money in weddings. These are the ones that stick out the most to me because they can easily be done yourself and cut down the costs of having a wedding. If you have any other ideas or tricks for saving money on your wedding, post a comment and let me know! I welcome ideas!

Wedding Planning to Cut Costs Part 2

2008-03-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

As I was writing the last article I realized that there are lots of places where you can cut costs in your wedding planning, and that there was much more to write about on the subject. You can read the previous article here, “Wedding Planning to Cut Costs Part 1“. True, it is my belief that most local wedding vendors overprice their goods for weddings, and do I believe there are things you can do to counteract that. Some of it I learned by doing myself, and some of it I realized in hindsight. There are plenty of options out there to implement which can help you cut costs on the ever rising cost of weddings.

1. The Guest List - Most people will tell you that one of the first things to do when budgeting your wedding is to cut your wedding guest list down until you have reached a number with which you are comfortable. There is no need to invite old friends from elementary school whom you haven’t seen in over 10 years, or anything of the like, or every person you have ever worked with. When you do the math for the cost per person, including invitations, favors, food, drinks, thank you cards, etc you will find the cost per person does get very high.

2. Location - The location of your wedding ceremony and reception does not have to cost a fortune. If you go to church, many churches will allow you to use their facilities free of charge if you are a member. Or if you or a friend have a beautiful home, backyard or even garden, its another great place to get married. Rent some chairs and an arch, and you have a gorgeous wedding location at no cost. Another great thing to look into is a destination wedding, which you can read another article on the subject, Planning a Destination Wedding.

3. Skip the DJ - Instead of hiring a dj or a band to liven up your wedding reception, a great idea is to make an MP3 cd with all of your favorite songs and have it played during your reception. Set up some speakers or other contraption, and you’ll save several hundred dollars from hiring an actual band. If you must have someone to lead, ask a friend or family member to emcee the event.

4. Wedding Cakes - Many colleges and schools offer classes in cake decorating, meaning that you do not need to hire a professional and pay dearly for it. Many have the training and experience, but do not own professional bakeries, but instead make cakes in their free time as a hobby, and can make cakes just as beautiful as any professional, for less than half the cost. You can find them in local wedding guides, internet, or the internet.

5. The Honeymoon - If you are short on funds, and still want a great honeymoon, there are plenty of ideas you can use that won’t break the bank. You can either shop locations and all inclusive honeymoon deals on the internet, in an off season for a better deal, then purchase the vacation insurance so that when costs go down,Â you’ll be able to recoup some of those costs. A honeymoon cruise is also less costly, and you’ll still get to go to some great locations. Also, don’t know a honeymoon in the states, there are plenty of great locations in the US that will make a beautiful and romantic honeymoon.

There are tons of ideas on how to cut costs for your wedding day. When doing your wedding planning, just ask yourself if you really want to spend $27,000 (average cost of weddings in the United States today), for an event that will only last for one day. Not that I’m saying that weddings aren’t worth it. Your wedding should be the best day of your life and everything you want it to be, just ask yourself if anyone will be able to tell the difference between the most expensive wedding vendor out there and a less expensive version that is just as beautiful.

Wedding Budget

2008-03-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

If you are like most people out there, then when you are planning your wedding, you need to stay within some sort of wedding budget. Not everyone has an extra $15 grand (or more!) laying around that can be used just to plan the perfect wedding, with the best of everything, and everything just how you want it. The reality of it all is, that nearly every couple planning a wedding is having to stay very conscious of their wedding budget to make sure they don’t wind up with debt problems after the wedding. Each couples wedding budget is different, and some have larger wedding budgets than others, but just because you have a lower wedding budget doesn’t mean that your wedding has to look cheap. Perhaps your wedding budget is a sum your parents are going to help you out with, and then a certain amount of money that you and your fiance are going to use towards the wedding, or perhaps your wedding budget is being funded completely by you. Whatever the case, you’ll need to learn how to show smart, and bargain, so that you can have the wedding of your dreams and still stay within your wedding budget.

Keeping Track of your Wedding Budget

I can’t stress the importance of keeping close tabs on your wedding budget. As I girl, I know how fast expenses can add up while you’re shopping, you go out for a few items and end up spending much more than you had planned. Hence why my husband tags along when I go grocery shopping. But, back to the subject, it’s important to special attention to what you’ve spent, what you still have left to buy, and about how much money you have to spend for each thing. Perhaps the best way to do this is to start a wedding book, and include receipts, coupons, vendor names and phone numbers, and much more. Also, if you have knowledge of Excel spreadsheets, you may want to create some spreadsheets with guest lists, gift lists from showers, and other useful information. Using this method to keep track to your expenses in regard to your wedding budget can require a lot of organization and computer knowledge.

Get Help with Your Wedding Budget

If you have a friend or family who is good with organization and keeping track of money, then you could enlist their help on getting yourself set up. But this may not be available to every couple. In that case, you may want to look for some kind of wedding book or wedding software which can help you keep track of everything having to do with your wedding and your wedding budget. Check out card stores for different planners that you can buy and use, or look on the Internet for other help with your wedding budget. There is one great tool that I found on the Internet, I purchased it and it really does have a lot of great information. It is called The Wedding Planning Budget Guide. It is an ebook with lots of money saving ideas for weddings, and it comes with a bunch of great freebies that come in handy for planning a wedding, such as spreadsheets and other programs. It’s under $30, and a pretty great buy for brides looking for a place to start saving money on their wedding budget.

I can’t tell you the importance of keeping close tabs on your wedding budget. The last thing you want when starting your new marriage is to have money problems and extra unexpected debt from the wedding. Not only that, but if you run out of money in your wedding budget while you are still buying things for the wedding, you could run into lots of different problems, creating unneeded stress on you!

Get an Online Loan Education

2008-03-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

If you’re like most couples out there, you don’t have all of the cash available to pay for your wedding right now. Chances are, if your parents are helping you out, they may not have funds readily available to help you out either. Or perhaps you have some cash available to you, but you know that it isn’t going to be enough to plan your wedding, much less make it the wedding day that you’ve always dreamed of. With the average cost of weddings being over $28 grand, the numbers you’ll see when talking with wedding vendors can be staggering - trust me, I’ve been there. I remember lots of conversations where I said, “You want how much for this? Are you serious!?” So what can you do?
Before you begin planning your wedding, you’ll need to determine your wedding budget, what funds you have available to pay for your wedding. Then, make a rough estimate from talking to vendors and venues to find out how much you’ll need total to pay for your wedding. If there is a difference, you’ll need to figure out a way to meet it. You could max out your credit cards and start your new married life with a ton of credit card debt…and credit card interest rates can be a killer. Not fun. Another thing that you can look at is getting an online loan at a low interest rate to help pay for those wedding bills. To find out if an online loan is right for you, then you may want to get an online loan education.

Probably the best way to learn about what kinds of monies are available to you is to get an online loan education. With an online loan education, you can learn a lot about how to save your pennies for the big day and make the cost of your wedding a whole lot easier on your checkbook, wallet or credit card. An online loan education will help you determine if loans are even necessary for you to get, or if you will be able to absorb the cost of the length of time it takes for you to plan. It will let you know what options are available for you, whether it be an online loan, a payday loan, or any other loans that could be useful to you.

I remember what it’s like to plan a wedding, it can be pretty stressful. If you have to worry about money and how you’re going to pay for your wedding, it’s even worse. The best piece of advice I can offer is to get an online loan education, find out if they can take any of the stress off of you when it comes to paying for your wedding. It never hurts to see what is out there for you to take advantage of.

Beach Wedding Shoes

2008-03-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Many couples this year living on the coast, or choosing to have a destination wedding will be having a beach wedding. Beach weddings are another kind of outdoor weddings that can turn out really beautiful and charming if planned correctly. Planning a beach wedding is very different from planning any other kind of wedding, not only in that it is a wedding planned outdoors, but also in that beach weddings can present some new situations that you don’t need to consider when planning traditional indoor weddings. Beach weddings typically require some kind of non-traditional wedding dress and shoes to keep a nice and fancy dress from getting destroyed or dirty. Not only that, but if you are planning on having a beach wedding, you are also going to need some special beach wedding shoes to help you to stay comfortable and moderately pain-free throughout your wedding. As I’ve said before in previous articles, wedding shoes are typically overlooked because so many brides spend most of their time searching for the perfect wedding dress, but they are important. So if you are planning a beach wedding, then here are some different kinds of beach wedding shoes to consider to help make your wedding day go as smoothly as possible.

Your Beach Wedding Shoes Should be Comfortable

There is always something to be said for a pair of comfortable shoes. I’m sure we’ve all been in the predicament of having shoes that pinch or cramp-it can totally ruin an evening if you’re cringing with every step. That goes for every bride no matter what kind of wedding she is planning. But if you are planning a beach wedding, then your beach wedding shoes need to be comfortable for you to walk on in the sand and gravel. I had the misfortune during our honeymoon to be wearing a pair of heels to dinner, only to have a moonlight walk on the beach afterward. Don’t get me wrong, it was totally romantic, but very hard to walk in. So, the best piece of advice I have for finding a comfortable pair of beach wedding shoes that you can walk on the sand in, try it out for yourself. Try walking through the sand where your wedding will be, and see if you are able to walk around comfortably. That will give you a good idea on finding beach wedding shoes that you’ll be able to walk in.

Beach Wedding Shoes Should be Sand-Friendly

It should go without saying, but your beach wedding shoes need to be able to work with the sand. You don’t want to be forever stopping to empty the sand out of your wedding shoes so that you can walk normally. My advice, stay away from close toed shoes or other kinds of pumps that will not allow sand to exit the shoe on it’s own. Flip flops are always a popular choice for beach wedding shoes, since they are both informal and sand-friendly. If you can’t see yourself using flip flops as your beach wedding shoes, then maybe look for some flat strappy sandals that you can still walk in comfortable, and will not require you to be dumping sand out of your shoes so much.

Many brides choose to go for a more informal look when they are planning a beach wedding. Many brides find a wedding dress that is not floor length, or perhaps a wedding sun dress that will be more comfortable and yet still beautiful and elegant on her wedding day. So, if you are planning a beach wedding, don’t forget to find the perfect pair of beach wedding shoes so that you are able to enjoy your wedding day as much as possible.

The Wedding Sundress

2008-03-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

Planning Beach Weddings

2008-03-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

While some girls dream of a big fancy wedding in a church, other little girls have always dreamed of beach weddings with just a few of their family and friends. Theres not really anything wrong with that. I wanted to get married in our church because our church means a lot to me, and I wanted to take our vows there before God and have a traditional church wedding. But not all couples are like that. Beach weddings are a popular choice for outdoor weddings. Not only because they provide an excellent view and romantic location, but also because there is nothing quite as intimate or elegant as beach weddings. So if beach weddings have been on your mind since you were a little girl, and now that you’re engaged you can’t imagine any other kind of wedding to have, then here are some planning tips for starting to plan your dream beach wedding.

Beach Weddings Require Permissions

While beaches are mostly public areas, you will still need to get written permission to have beach weddings on the shore.

Contact the beach authorities in the area you are wanting to get married in, and find out what couples planning beach weddings need to do in order to have their weddings on the sea shore. They’ll be able to issue any permits, as well as tell you what rules couples planning beach weddings need to follow in order to have their dream beach weddings.

Beach Weddings can Present Logistical Problems

Couples planning beach weddings need to be prepared to work through the potential logistical problems that comes with beach weddings. For example, you’ll want to have your ceremony location and time of ceremony to be at a time when the number of sunbathers and swimmers are as few as possible. The last thing you need in your beach wedding is a bunch of kids splashing and playing just a few feet away. Kind of ruins the intimacy beach weddings are known for. Also, you’ll need to plan what kind of wedding reception to have, and where to have it. Beaches may allow you to have your ceremony on the beach, but may also draw the line at your erecting a huge tent for your wedding reception. So if beach weddings are your thing, you’ll need to figure out how to get around all of these potential pitfalls.

There is no doubt about it, beach weddings are beautiful. Maybe it’s the sun setting on the water and the gentle salty breeze that makes beach weddings so special. Maybe it’s just part of the magic of nature and the intimacy of exchanging vows, who knows? But when beach weddings are done correctly, they can be one of the most beautiful and romantic kinds of weddings that a couple can plan. So if beach weddings have always been in your dreams, and you’re willing to put in some of the extra work and planning required for beach weddings, then you’re sure to have a beautiful beach wedding people will be talking about for years.

The Perfect Wedding Dress For The Bride

2008-03-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

Many brides begin dreaming about the perfect wedding dress long before they are even engaged. Choosing the perfect wedding dress is critical because it is the one day that all eyes will be on you. A dress that is beautiful without being too ostentatious and is also flattering to your figure will ensure that you are looking your best on your wedding day. With so many style, color and fabric options available, choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a difficult task but fortunately most brides simply know when they have found the perfect wedding dress. From the moment they put on the dress, their gut instinct tells them that this is the perfect wedding dress for them.

The most important piece of advice for shopping for the perfect wedding dress is to begin shopping for your dress at least six months before your wedding date. Finding the perfect dress can take quite a bit of time and once you find the dress, it may take up to four months for the dress to be ordered and shipped to the store. Then once the dress arrives in the store you may require several fittings to ensure that the dress fits you perfectly. You will want to take your time and enjoy shopping for your wedding dress so it is important to begin the process early so that you avoid feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

Another worthwhile piece of advice for finding the perfect wedding dress is to try on many different styles of dresses. Even though you may be convinced that you want a particular style you may find that the style that looks so appealing in magazines does not suit your body type. You may also find that a style that you would have never chosen can be flattering to your figure. For this reason it is important to try on a wide variety of styles before ruling out any particular style. The old saying, “you won’t know unless you try it,” holds true for wedding dresses. There have been countless brides who have found that their perfect wedding dress turned out to be significantly different from the one that they had pictured in their mind.

Although it may sound counterintuitive, the color of the wedding dress is an important consideration in choosing the perfect wedding dress. Many people think that the only acceptable color for a wedding dress is a pure white but if you are open to other options, you may find yourself in a wedding dress that is far more flattering to your skin tone than a pure white dress. Wedding dresses come in a multitude of colors including ivory, cream and even subtle beiges. If you are willing to consider these options it is important to try on dresses in these colors to see how they work with your complexion.

Choosing the perfect wedding dress sometimes requires reinforcements. Having a few trusted friends or family members come dress shopping with you can help you find the dress of your dreams. They can offer opinions on each dress that you try on and can also scour the countless racks of dresses available and choose dresses for you to try on. Many brides instantly know that they have chosen the perfect wedding dress the moment they put on the dress but having trusted friends and family members along can confirm this feeling. The moment you step out of the dressing room and reveal the dress you are wearing you may see instant confirmation that this is the perfect dress. The reactions of your assistants will indicate that you have found the perfect dress.

When you have found the perfect wedding dress, you will know it so now is also the time to buy the dress. Nothing is more important than your gut feeling and the reactions of your shopping partners so if you know you have the perfect dress in your hands, don’t risk losing the dress by opting to think about it for a few days before you make your purchase. There is always the chance that the last available dress will be sold or that the company will discontinue the dress so do not allow yourself to miss out on buying the perfect wedding dress by not buying it the moment you realize it is the dress for you.

The wedding dress is a critical element in a wedding. It is what makes a bride truly stand out and it is important for the bride to ensure that she has chosen the perfect wedding dress. The minute a future bride steps into a wedding dress she will know instantly whether or not it is the perfect dress. It’s important to trust this gut reaction and act accordingly in choosing the perfect wedding dress

The Perfect Wedding Gown

2008-03-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

Choosing the perfect gown is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your wedding. It is an experience to remember for a lifetime.

Some brides consider choosing the dress to be a tiresome and difficult experience. But it does not have to be. With the right thought and preparation, shopping for the perfect wedding gown can be a fun and exciting experience.

Use the top ten tips listed below to help you find that perfect wedding gown.

1) Start Early

Start your search as early as possible. Special orders can take several months to arrive.
Alterations can take more time.

2) Do Your Research

Look through bridal magazines to find styles that you are interested in. Bring photos
of the styles you like with you when you shop.

3) Consider the Type of Ceremony

Choose a dress that is appropriate for your ceremony. For a formal wedding, a long
gown with a train makes a beautiful choice. A two piece suit or short dress is
appropriate for a less formal ceremony or a visit to the Justice of the Peace.

4) Consider the Season

Remember to choose lighter fabrics for the warm months of summer. Choose heavier
fabrics for the winter.

5) Follow Your Style

Choose a dress that fits your style, personality, and figure. Just because the dress looks
good in a magazine or on a hanger does not mean it will work for you.

6) Bring a Friend Along

Take someone along with you to shop- your mom, your sister, a bridesmaid-someone
who will offer an honest second opinion when needed. Wedding gown shopping can
leave you unsure and confused. Taking along someone with your best interests at heart
can really save you from making the wrong choice.

7) Select a Budget

Choose your budget and stick with it. Wedding gowns can start at one hundred dollars
and go into the thousands of dollars. Decide how much you want to spend and donâ€™t
spend more. You are sure to find a dress to fit your style as well as your budget.

8) Comfort

Once you find a gown you like that is within your budget, make sure that it is
comfortable. Since you will be spending several hours in it-standing during the
ceremony, taking photographs, dancing the night away-youâ€™ll want to be pleased.
make sure you can bend, sit, lift your arms and hug your guest freely without
needing to adjust your dress. Comfort is important on your big day.

9) Buy It

Once you find the dress of your dreams, buy it. Stop looking. If you wait to shop
around more, your perfect dress may be gone when you return.

10) Have Fun

Choosing a wedding dress is an exciting experience. Donâ€™t get stressed over it.
Just remember to relax, have fun and enjoy

Selecting The Right Wedding Dress

2008-03-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

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 is not much leeway to practice or make mistakes. So to make the entrance of the bride 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 overall theme. So if the gown that catches the fancy of the bride 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. Do not 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 not make a decision? That sort of scenario will prove to be a terrible headache and 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 do not want your gown falling apart on you during the ceremonies.

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Dress

2008-03-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Wedding Dresses

2008-03-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re getting married for the first time or the second time you’ll want to have the perfect wedding dress for your big day. This means a lot of planning as you shop ahead of time, looking at as many wedding dresses as you can before finding the right one.

If you can afford it you’ll want to buy something original and new. But for most people an original wedding dress is far from reality. There are many wedding shops where you live that will offer you great wedding dresses at prices that you can afford. Many times, however, all these dresses will look one like the other without much originality.

If you want a designer wedding dress but don’t think that you can fit it into your budget you might want to think again. There is a great place online where you can buy a designer dress at a price that fits into your wedding budget. That place is eBay.

EBay is a great place to find wedding dresses for sale that haven’t been worn or that have been worn for that one time. You’ll be able to pick up a Caroline Castigliano dress for less than half price. A dress that costs over $2000 new can be found at eBay for under $200. This is because sellers want to get rid of the product that they’ve been holding on to since their wedding and are now selling at a great price.

There are some people who make their living by buying designer wedding dresses and reselling them on eBay for you to profit from. Keep in mind that you most likely won’t be able to return the dress that you buy on eBay so be absolutely certain of your size and measurements so that you don’t make any mistakes. Buying a dress for your wedding doesn’t have to be boring!

Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dress - Helpful Tips

2008-03-22T12:28:00.002-07:00

Picking out a wedding dress is most often a wonderful dream that most women have from a very young age. But when the time comes to actually do this, the task can get rather daunting, to say the least. Below you will find some very helpful tips to keep in mind when you go to pick out your wedding dress - the dress of your dreams!

First of all, every woman is different in shape and size. No two women are the same. This is why it is important that you know what type of dress best flatters your shape and size. Remember: It is not just about the dress; rather, it is about how you look in the dress. Wearing a pencil thin strapless gown when you are overweight will not compliment your figure. Neither will wearing a large puffy dress if you are on the shorter side. There are countless styles of dresses available on the market today. The best way to determine what style dress looks best on you is to try on a variety of styles. After carefully examining what type of dress accents your best features and covers your flaws, you will have a better idea of what style to purchase.

Another thing you should consider when picking out a wedding dress is the color of the dress. Although this seems like a ridiculous thing to consider - because most brides wear white - this is something that should also be carefully assessed. Keep in mind that even white has many tones and shades. Some women will look wonderful wearing pure white. But for other women, an off-white, champagne, or ivory color may look much more flattering. It all depends on the type of skin tone and hair color you have, as well as the style of dress you are choosing. Sometimes, women with dark hair and olive skin will look amazing in an ivory or champagne colored dress - especially if it has intricate beading on it.

However, if the dress is plainer in style and more modern looking, the same woman may look good in pure white. Remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What you think looks superb may look less than attractive to someone else. This is why it is typically best to take at least one other person to pick out the dress with you.

And that brings us to a third point: taking someone with you to pick out the dress. If your mother (or mother figure) is alive and you have a good relationship with her, it is common that you would ask her to come along to choose a dress. And if you are keeping with tradition, you would also ask your future mother-in-law to come along as well. Any bridesmaids, best friends, or trusted confidantes are also usually chosen to go. However, some women prefer to go alone - it is all up to the bride and is usually based on the type of wedding that will take place. No matter what you choose to do, just remember that the final say about what dress to choose is up to you. It is your wedding day, and no one else's!

Choosing A Wedding Dress

2008-03-22T12:28:00.001-07:00

Asides from having a baby, getting married is surely the biggest and most significant moment of a woman's life. Every woman dreams of the moment she meets Mr. Right, how her life with Mr. Right will be and also her wedding day. There are many, many factors involved with weddings. From the time of the year to get married, to registry offices, churches, traditional or custom ceremonies, reception do's, catering services, guest invitations, travel arrangements, cake decoration, the all important rings, and finally and perhaps most important for the bride to be, the wedding dress.

Every girl has dreamed of how she may look in a wedding dress, and may not wish to deviate too far from her dream wedding dress, although sometimes finding the exact sort of dress can be a nightmare. For instance, many off the shelf wedding dresses may not be in the correct size or be fully alterable to the correct specifications, and wedding dresses which are custom made can be astronomical in cost.

Wedding dresses come in many forms. The truth be told, some are outright ghastly, some are big and fancy, whilst some are more conservative and sleek. If one thing is for certain, there are wedding dresses for everybody.

While planning a wedding, whilst the 'dream wedding' and 'dream dress' and so forth may be engrained in the mind of the bride to be, in reality there must be room for compromise and change - it is highly unlikely a wedding can be planned with unwavering and uncompromising ideals. Some people are lucky and find the ideal wedding dress they have always wanted, whilst others may struggle to find a wedding dress which suits them or they feel is right for them. It is absolutely essential to try wedding dresses on so you know exactly how you will look, so it is advisable not to buy from catalogues but from shops.

A good and highly recommended starting point however is to buy a few wedding magazines or brochures which specialise in dresses. This way you can flick through, find which dresses you like and cut out the pictures and take them along to many of the wedding dress shops to see if there is anything similar or the same you may be able to try on.

Shop around. Don't be afraid of trying every single wedding dress shop in your city and beyond, but don't be too uncompromising if possible, and planning your wedding and the hunt for your wedding dress will be much less of a stress.

An Informal Gown For Your Wedding

2008-03-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

You will need a gorgeous wedding gown on your big day so that you will draw the attention of every guest. As a result no one will argue that the gown is one of the most essential items in your wedding. You may think that a traditional white color wedding dress will be perfect for your wedding.

A formal wedding gown can be perfect in most cases. Since wedding is one of the things that connects with etiquette heavily. You will certainly choose a formal gown if you are a person who cares about etiquette. In fact a classic white color wedding dress is always an elegant one. On the contrary, some brides may think that all classic gowns are the same and they would like to choose something different. In this case an informal gown will be a perfect choice.

Comfort is the main reason for brides to choose informal wedding dresses. It is true that a wedding dress will not be a good one if it will make you feel uncomfortable, no matter how beautiful it is. For some girls, a classic formal gown can be too heavy for them and make them feel uncomfortable, both physically and psychologically. An informal wedding dress may be a better choice in this case.

Sometimes a bride can be overwhelmed by a classic wedding dress. This may be due to the reason that a formal wedding dress is sometimes too powerful, in terms of design. You have to bear in mind that the gown should be enhancing your beauty on your big day. You should never choose a gown which fails to do so. For example, if black color is the best color for you to put on, there may not be such choice of color for a classic wedding gown. You may then consider a black informal wedding dress.

As mentioned above, you may have a feeling that all classic gowns look the same. If this is what you believe, you should opt to the choice of informal gown. It can make you more unique when you walk down the aisle because there is no fixed style for an informal wedding dress. The color of the dress mentioned above is certainly one of the examples.

An informal wedding dress is even more perfect if you are going to hold an informal wedding. Nowadays many couples will choose to hold beach weddings. You can certainly choose a beautiful swimming suit as your wedding dress if you want. Or if you do not want to go that far, you can take the idea of swimming suit as a design concept to make your wedding dress. With the notion of informal gown, we can really say that the sky is the limit.

You should always bear in mind that the number one consideration when choosing your wedding dress is comfort. This is a golden rule, no matter you are planning to choose a formal or an informal wedding dress. If you think a formal gown is more comfortable for your, you should go with the formal dress. If you are thinking the other way round, however, you may opt to buy an informal wedding dress. It is your wedding and you should make your decision and choice based on your own preference and feeling.

Affordable Wedding Dresses

2008-03-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

There is no way to avoid it: weddings are expensive. The average cost of a wedding in the United States is a jaw dropping $30,000! As part of this figure, brides across America are paying on average between $800 to $1,500 for their wedding dresses. I know your wedding is a very special day, but no matter how you look at it, that is a lot of money for something you will likely wear once. Fortunately, with a bit of work, you can bring this price down to a more realistic number. One way you can do this is by finding affordable wedding dresses.

Buying a custom made wedding dress is often portrayed as being essential if you want to look your best. However, unless you have a very unusual body shape, this will almost always be unnecessary. Just buy a dress off the rack and take it to a good tailor for alterations to have it fitted to your body shape. And because you are buying the dress off the rack, you have immediately increased the number of places were you could actually hope to find an affordable wedding dress. Visit bridal outlet stores without worrying that the dress will fit you like a paper bag.

No matter where you buy your wedding dress, the number one area to save on when buying a wedding dress is in the fabric. You will, of course, only be wearing the dress once, so you do not need to worry about the long term viability of the dress. You can also assume that no one will pull you aside as you walk down the aisle to check your tag! However, this is not to say that you should be getting a polyester gown! Even using a lower quality satin instead of the standard high quality satin can cut the cost of the dress up two thirds. And frankly, the difference will not be noticeable to anyone in attendance, let alone in the wedding photos. Most designers will offer their wedding dresses in different fabrics; if they are not up front about advertising the fact, go ahead and ask.

You are not going to be able to avoid paying a lot for your wedding, but you can take steps to find affordable wedding dresses. And most importantly, you can do it in a way that will not make you any less beautiful on your big day.

Wedding Dress Trends for the Modern Bride

2008-03-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

When it comes to choosing a memorable wedding dress modern brides are breaking away from the tradition styles and trying hip new gowns that reflect their personally and vision. These days there are many types of wedding dress to choose from, so finding a style that suits your personality should not be hard. Whether that means wearing a colorful wedding dress, trouser suit or sundress, go with it! Even traditional options are available, such as satin ball gowns, and vintage style gowns, which have been updated with modern beading and other small touches that make it modern.

Current Wedding Dress Trends

Add A Little Color
Whether this means purchasing a wedding dress with colorful beading, hints of color fabric, or wearing colorful accessories such as jewelry or shoes. Color will make any bride 'Pop'. Popular shades are light blue, pale pink, cappuccino brown and champagne red. Just avoid going overboard with color, a little goes a long way. Unless going for a rainbow look, one to two dominate colors will be fine.

Add Lace
Lace was often used in making vintage gowns and currently it is making a comeback on modern gowns as well. Lace gives a wedding dress a sense of elegance, beauty, and glamour.

Hand Embroidery
Today, there are just as many wedding gowns available with hand embroidery as there are ones without. Hand embroidery makes a plain dress look spectacular There are so many embroidery designs available that choosing one you like should be easy. Designs can be plain and simple, colorful and detailed, and even have beads added in.

Go Ultra-Feminine
The runway has really brought back feminine styles. Styles that incorporate ribbons, ruffles, flower designs and bows. These designs can be found on current designer wedding dresses.

If you are considering wearing your mothers or grandmothers traditional wedding dress, update the style by using some modern touches mentioned. You can even use accessories ideas from the leading fashion designers and top fashion magazines. But remember to keep your wedding style fashion forward, not over trendy, and avoid fashions that will date quickly.

Custom Made Wedding Dresses

2008-03-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been searching for a wedding dress without success, don’t give up and settle for one out of frustration! Your wedding day is too important to have a dress that you don’t absolutely love! One thing that many are choosing to do now is to have a dress custom made. Not only will it ensure that you have a dress you absolutely love, it will also save you on the many hidden costs of buying your dress retail. Many people though are wary of the idea, and below are some frequently asked questions about it with answers.

How does it work?

If you’ve been to several shops and found three or four dresses or aspects of wedding dresses that you really like, print up some pictures and make a list of what you like and dislike. You could also look for dress patterns on the internet and in most fabric stores for something that suits more. However, most quality, experienced dress makers can create a quality dress with just pictures and the necessary measurements.

How can I find someone near me?

If you don’t know of anyone yourself, start talking to family and friends. Someone is bound to have heard of someone who makes wedding dresses nearby, or know of another family or friend who has had a dress custom made. If that doesn’t work, put some calls into local fabric stores. Most fabric stores have regulars, and will be more familiar with who has the ability, who gets the most work, as well as their reputation for quality work.

How will it save me money?

Instead of paying a costly retail price for a dress, and then working with the seamstresses in the bridal shop to have the necessary alterations made to your gown (which are usually steep due to the many layers of fabric in wedding dresses), you will usually pay a flat fee to the dress maker, and then pay for all the material as well. There should be no need for alterations as the gown is custom made to your measurements in the first place.

Will people be able to tell my dress is custom made?

Not if you have a quality dress maker. With the lace and beads that are also available at most fabric stores, you should have all the resources needed to make the perfect wedding dress. Ask to see work that the seamstress has done on other wedding dresses. As you come in for fittings during the process, be honest with your dressmaker about any questions you may have as well as how you feel the dress is coming and any changes you would like to have made. Remember that this is your wedding gown, and it should be just what you want it to be.

Those who have had their wedding gown custom made swear by it, and encourage others to do it as well. Being able to design your own wedding dress is fun, exciting, and aÂ great way to get a dress that is 100% you: your tastes, your style, and one that will flatter you most. Be completely comfortable and love what you are wearing. Learn how to find a wedding dress for your body type and which neckline works best for you as well. Another great benefit, a custom made dress is a great heirloom to pass on through the generations.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

2008-03-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

Find out what you like

A wedding dress is different from any other dress that you will ever wear. They’re bigger, heavier and fancier than any dress I own, and I own a lot of dresses. So if you don’t already know what kind of wedding dresses you like, then go into a bridal shop and try on as many dresses as it takes. Look at the different necklines, waistlines, and beading, and patterns to help you decide which you like. Bring a camera and take pictures of what you like and a notebook to help you remember later.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

You don’t have to have any special software or skills to do design your own wedding dress, just pictures of what you like. If you have a friend or family member who is a seamstress, go and talk to them about making your dress, and if not, then go to fabric stores and start asking around. Most fabric stores will have business cards of ladies who can make wedding dresses for you. Set up a meeting with your seamstress and take your pictures and notebook of ideas. A good seamstress can look at your pictures and be able to copy the different ideas that you have into one dress. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Learn to Love Fittings!

A lot of brides I know complain about having to go to fittings. I don’t understand it. Especially when you design your own wedding dress. You want to make sure during the dress making process that you are happy with the way the dress is coming out and making sure that it fits. Don’t be afraid to let your seamstress know if you don’t like something about the dress so that it can be changed early.

An Added Benefit

When you design your own wedding dress, the cost of the dress does decrease considerably. You will typically pay your seamstress a flat amount, along with the cost of materials (which is suprisingly inexpensive - the satin for my dress was only $7 a yard, and I only needed 7 yards). So, for less money you get a dress that you absolutely love, totally unique, for less money. Can’t beat it!!

Another Added Benefit

Let’s face it, wedding dresses are expensive. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could easily spend three times what you were planning on spending on a wedding dress without even realizing it. If you don’t want to design your own wedding dress, but want the benefit of saving money and time on wedding attire, then click here for an all inclusive guide to getting the best wedding attire at a fraction of the cost.

If you’re still unsure if you want to create your own wedding dress, then check out my article, Custom Made Wedding Dresses. Find out why I chose to design my own wedding dress, and why I recommend it to everyone I know getting married. If you h

ave any questions, feel free to contact me!

Wedding Rose club 12

2008-03-16T10:37:00.002-07:00

Sequin Bag with Roses by Jane Packer

Description

The moment she walks into the room your heart skips a beat. She’s unique, stylish and one-of-a-kind. For the woman who has stolen your heart completely, give an equally extraordinary gift! Expert floral designer Jane Packer, winner of the prestigious Prince Philip Medal, has created an exquisite arrangement with a dash of panache – a hand-tied bouquet of the most vibrant Romantic Red ‘Grand Prix’ roses nested in an eye-catching ruby red sequin handbag or an elegant bouquet of Wondrous White ‘Avalanche’ roses in a chic white sequin handbag. An utterly magnificent gift for your once-in-a-lifetime love. Bag measures 11”H x 5”W.

Love`s First Bloom™ in Lenox® Crystal Vase

Description

Win them over in a heartbeat with this dazzling presentation!One dozen multicolored roses arrive in a stunning Lenox® crystal vase with an etched ribbon motifOur expert florists select the freshest long-stem roses in at least three different bright colors and arrange them with ‘millionstar’ gypsophila and salalOur florists select only the freshest flowers available, so colors and varieties may varyVase measures 9.5”HNature’s most spectacular flowers and crystal from the masters at Lenox® make for a combination they will never forget!What’s The Story?Since 1889, Lenox® has created gifts, tableware, and collectibles for U.S. presidents, dignitaries, and families across America. In fact, Lenox® was the first American china to be used in the White House.

® Elegant Wishes™

Description

Our stunning fresh bouquet marks their special day with an expression of pure elegance! Roses, 'Stargazer' lilies, snapdragons, Fuji mums, alstroemeria and fresh greens, beautifully arranged by our select floristsClassic 11"H glass vaseLarge arrangement measures approximately 26”H x 19”DMedium arrangement measures approximately 24"H x 18"DSmall arrangement measures approximately 22"H x 18"DIt's a sensational way to say what's in your heart no matter what the occasion! Components may vary.What's The Story?One of the most popular lilies in North America, the 'Stargazer' is a hybrid Oriental lily, created in 1978 by California lily breeder Leslie Woodriff. He christened it 'Stargazer' because the blooms faced the sky.

Two Dozen Long Stem Multicolored Roses

Description

Give that unforgettable someone a magnificent bouquet of two dozen long-stem multicolored roses. Two dozen long-stem multicolored roses Picked at the peak of perfection from our select floral farmsShipped overnight to ensure freshnessThis gathering of 24 fresh and beautiful roses is a spectacular gift at a sensational value you’ll treasure!Send just the bouquet or make their gift even more breathtaking and add:A gorgeous silver and red glass vase with a heart on the front for an additional $19.99; measures 8.75"H x 4.5"DA classic glass vase for an additional $10.What’s The Story?The number of roses you send to a loved one often has a rich, symbolic meaning. Twenty-four roses stand for the twenty-four hours of the day, signifying that your love and devotion is as constant and reliable as time itself.You May Also Like: Two Dozen Red Roses

Wedding Rose club 11

2008-03-16T10:37:00.001-07:00

® Fields of Ecuador

Description

Every year, our dedicated floral team logs thousands of frequent flyer miles to visit the select farms in Ecuador where many of our magnificent rose varieties are grown. For our Fields of Ecuador bouquet, we've cultivated a bloom as magical as its native land—the 'Classic Cezanne' rose. This gorgeous gathering of two dozen pink roses with dark pink edges is a breathtaking representation of Ecuador's diverse beauty. Shipped overnight to ensure freshness. Make their gift more extraordinary and add a striking 9"H rose-colored "Jordan" glass vase as the perfect accent to this stunning Bouquet

® Elegant Romance™ Arrangement

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Send the epitome of elegance with our stylish and sophisticated bouquet of fresh white lilies, roses and Gerbera daisies, gathered with waxflower, eucalyptus and button poms. Artistically designed by our select florists in a gorgeous white ceramic pedestal vase, this stunning gift creates a look that's as timeless as your love. Our florists select the freshest flowers available so colors and varieties may vary. Vase measures 10”H. Arrangement measures approximately 20”H x 14”D.What's The Story?In romance, the lily is a symbol of purity and modesty. The white lily symbolizes innocence and sweetness.

® Garden of Grandeur™

Description

Make a lasting and luxurious impression with our fresh arrangement of spectacular Spring flowers!Roses, Gerbera daisies, snapdragons, carnations, lilies and more Striking olive green glass hurricane vase; measures 8”H. Large arrangement measures approximately 26"H x 20"DMedium arrangement measures approximately 24"H x 18"DSmall arrangement measures approximately 22"H x 16"DExquisitely designed by our select florists, it's a gift of gorgeous grandeur they'll never forget. Components may vary.What's The Story?The gorgeous Gerbera daisy, native to South America, Africa, Madagascar, and tropical Asia, is the fifth most popular cut flower in the world.

® Victorian Splendor™

Description

Inspired by the grand style of the Victorian era, our select florists have created a timeless bouquet of roses, lisianthus, stock, ‘Stargazer’ lilies, chrysanthemums and heather, and artistically presented these fresh blooms in a striking pink vase. It's a classic gift of elegance that's perfect for any celebration! Components may vary. Vase measures 11”H. Arrangement measures approximately 26"H x 20"D.What's The Story?The United Kingdom's Victorian era ranged from 1837 to 1901 during the period of Queen Victoria's reign, the longest in British history to date. It witnessed such events as the Industrial Revolution, the invention of photography, the rise of science and a design sensibility centered on orderliness and ornamentation.

Wedding Rose club 10

2008-03-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

® Ruby Mosaic™

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Our magnificent bouquet of the freshest roses, tulips and more reflects the love in your heart!Fresh roses, tulips, Asiatic lilies and waxflower gathered into a stunning bouquetDesigned by our florists in a keepsake red mosaic glass vase; measures 7"HArrangement measures approximately 14"H x 11”DOur florists select the freshest flowers available so floral colors and varieties may varyIt's a stunning reminder of your love and admiration! What's The Story?Dating back to the 4th century B.C., the art of mosaic is both an ancient and contemporary practice which used individual pieces of material placed together to create one unified whole.

® Rose Elegance™ in Lenox® Crystal

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Capture their heart with this stunning arrangement!One dozen fresh long-stem roses, artistically designed by our select florists in an exquisite crystal ribbon vase from the masters at Lenox®Choose from red, pink, peach, yellow or white roses; if color selected is not available, red roses will be deliveredComponents may varyVase measures 9.5”HArrangement measures approximately 22”H x 15”DIt’s an unforgettable gift that will make their heart pound with excitement! What’s The Story?In 1918, Lenox® became the first American china used in the White House, and in 2001, the first official gift to President George W. Bush was a Lenox® crystal bowl.

Elegant Wishes™ in Lenox® Crystal Vase

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Here’s a breathtaking gift for that special someone!Roses, Stargazer lilies, snapdragons, fuji mums, alstroemeria, solidago, caspia and salalDisplayed in a dazzling Lenox® crystal vase with an etched ribbon motif; vase measures 9.5"HOur florists select only the freshest flowers available, so colors and varieties may varyArrangement measures approximately 26"H x 18"DIt's a memorable keepsake that makes any celebration extraordinary!What’s The Story?In 1676, an Englishman named George Ravenscroft discovered that by adding lead oxide to glass, a far more brilliant, sparkling glass could be produced, and lead crystal was born.

® Mini Margarita Bouquet™

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Don’t let its size fool you—this magnificent mini margarita creates a huge celebration anytime! Our unique arrangement of white cushion poms inside a reusable acrylic margarita glass is topped off with a yellow rose, faux lime slices and straws। Our florists select the freshest flowers available so colors and varieties may vary. Glass measures 6.5”H. Arrangement measures approximately 11"H x 8"D.Buy more, save more! Also available in a special 2-pack of bouquets (save $4.99) and a 4-pack of bouquets (save $19.97).

Bountiful Fruit & Gourmet Basket

Description

You just can’t beat the taste of orchard-fresh fruit and gourmet treats! Whether you send it to friends, family or business associates, our fabulous wicker gift basket is a welcome present for every occasion! Brimming with crisp pears, crunchy apples and citrus sweet oranges, it’s complemented by mixed nuts, cheese and crackers and more, including truffle-mints and chocolate cherries from 10/1-4/30 and pineapple hard candies and grapefruit chews from 5/1-9/30. Deluxe basket (shown) measures 15.5"H x 12.5"W x 16.25"L and includes over 10 lbs. of fruit, as well as extra snacks! Large basket measures 15.5"H x 12.5"W x 16.25"L and includes over 8 lbs of fruit. Medium basket measures 12"H x 10.5"W x 12.25"L and includes over 4 lbs. of fruit.From April to October, this great gift basket will substitute chocolate components with equally delicious sweet treats, in order to avoid excessive melting.

Wedding Rose Club 9

2008-03-16T10:31:00.006-07:00

Dozen Rose Presentation Bouquet

Description

"And the award for outstanding achievement goes to…" our fan shaped, stunning bouquet that is perfect for special presentations at a ballet recital, awards ceremony, or milestone anniversary celebrations. Designed to be held gracefully over one arm, our professional florists arrange one dozen fresh, long-stemmed roses into a bouquet wrapped with special care for an impressive presentation. This gorgeous bouquet comes with water tubes on each rose stem to ensure the roses stay fresh for several hours until they can be arranged in a vase. If first choice color is unavailable, second choice will always be our elegant and classic red roses. Measures approximately 30”L.

® Jewel of My Heart™

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Grab their attention with this spectacular arrangement that will make their senses sparkle! Red roses, stock, Gerbera daisies, Monte Cassino and salal Beautifully arranged by our select florists in a stunning lavender glass vase Accented by a decorative heart charm sparkling with amethyst-like jewels Vase measures 9.25”HArrangement measures approximately 22”H x 15”DShow your special someone they're the jewel of your heart! Our florists select the freshest flowers available so colors and varieties may vary.What's The Story?The lovely amethyst is a traditional symbol of heavenly understanding.This gift is available in participating areas only.

® Love Cubed™

Description

Think outside of the box and romance them in style!Gorgeous arrangement of red roses, white carnations and white stock, designed by our select floristsStriking black cube vase provides the perfect accent for the fresh bouquet; vase measures 5"H x 5"WArrangement measures approximately 10"H x 10”W x 10"L. No matter what the occasion, it's a sensational surprise that shows them your love knows no boundaries. Components may vary. What's The Story?Stock, or matthiola, is a cool season annual known for its colorful flowers and sweet fragrance. The genus is named after 16th century Italian naturalist Pietro Andra Mattioli.

Roses and Lilies in Lenox® Crystal Vase

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Send an extraordinary gift to an extraordinary someone! Breathtaking bouquet of the freshest long-stem roses and Stargazer liliesArtistically arranged by our select florists in a spectacular Lenox® crystal vase; vase measures 9.5"HOur florists select the freshest flowers available, so colors and varieties may varyArrangement measures approximately 23"H x 20"DPerfect for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or just because!What’s The Story?Hand-crafted with more than 100 years of Lenox® artistry and excellence, this stunning keepsake vase will become an instant highlight in their home

Wedding Rose Club 8

2008-03-16T10:31:00.005-07:00

Rose Votive Trio by Jane Packer

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Not just one surprise, but three times the excitement arrives for that unforgettable woman in your life with Jane Packer’s rose votive trio. Three exquisite mini hand-tied bouquets of hot pink ‘Ravel’ roses are arranged to sit atop a trio of votive holders delicately wrapped in monstera leaves and tied in hot pink wire. For a fun touch of whimsy, Jane rests a beautiful butterfly pick on one of the votives. Candles are not included. Votives can be reused and measure 3.5”H x 3.25”D each.

® Basket of Spring™

Description

Spring bursts on the scene with our striking basket arrangement!Fresh roses, mini carnations, daisy poms, Matsumoto asters and more, artistically designed by our expert floristsGorgeous keepsake handled basket adds fresh seasonal style; measures 11"LArrangement measures approximately 14”H x 12”W x 12”LComponents may varyThis beautiful basket of blooms is just right for an Easter centerpiece or any home or office. What's The Story?Spring is a time of growth, renewal and new life, a feeling brought to life by one look at our stunning basket arrangement of the season's most beautiful blooms!

It`s Your Lucky Day Bouquet™

Description

Our stunning fresh green and white bouquet makes any day the luckiest of the year!The freshest carnations, Gerbera daisies, Asiatic lilies, daisy poms, button poms and more, all in gorgeous shades of green and white and arranged by our select floristsClear glass gathering vase accented with raffia; measures 8"HArrangement measures approximately 18”H x 14”DA terrific way to wish them luck and bring them peace for their Birthday, St. Patrick's Day or any special occasion! Components may vary. What's The Story?The representative color of nature, green is a traditional symbol of growth, harmony, freshness and fertility.

® Rose Elegance™ Premium Dozen Roses

Description

For the one you can trust, the one you can turn to, the one who loves you above all else and knows your heart inside out. Give the ultimate expression of romance— our stunning Rose Elegance™ arrangement of one dozen ruby red roses! Our floral designers will select 12 of the freshest long stem roses and artistically arrange them just for her in a classic glass vase to create a gift of love they’ll always remember—and so will you. Choose from red, pink, peach, yellow, and white. If your first color choice is not available, the second choice will be multicolored roses. Arrangement measures approximately 22"H x 15"D

Wedding Rose Club 7

2008-03-16T10:31:00.004-07:00

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries Gift Box

Description

Give a surprise of sweet treasures! A stunning gift box holds a selection of our luscious, gourmet chocolate-covered strawberries. These unique strawberries are dipped in either dark, milk or white chocolate, then sprinkled with almonds, coconut, mini-chocolate chips and double-dipped or decorated with two types of chocolate. It’s an exquisite surprise for birthdays, anniversaries or just because you care enough to give a gift that will not be forgotten. A full variety will be shipped. Choose from 2 dozen, 1 dozen or ½ dozen.

Amethyst by Preston Bailey

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Transport your Valentine to faraway lands with Preston's majestic bouquet!Hand-tied bouquet of fuchsia Phalaenopsis orchids Accompanied by an amethyst-colored glass and metal vaseVase measures 6"H x 2.75"DShipped overnight to ensure freshnessWhat's The Story?In his signature style, Preston Bailey has chosen exuberant and harmonious color palettes for this dramatic Valentine. The exquisite Phalaenopsis orchids in a stunning fuchsia tone blend perfectly with the amethyst vase selected by Preston for its resemblance to the craftsmanship found in exotic Morocco.

Captured My Heart by Jane Packer

Description

EXCLUSIVE! One look at Jane’s gorgeous floral creation and you’ve captured their heart forever! Hand-tied bouquet of six bright red ‘Grand Prix’ rosesDesigned to sit inside the accompanying amethyst heart-shaped glass vase Vase measures 5.75”H x 3.75”W x 6.13”LShipped overnight to ensure freshnessWhat’s The Story?Jane has designed her bouquet to sit perfectly inside the accompanying vase, choosing the 'Grand Prix' rose for its dramatic, oversized blooms in a rich velvety red. Once the celebration is over, the vase can be displayed as a constant reminder of your love.

® Sentimental Surprise™

Description

Surprise someone special with our sensational sentimental arrangement of fresh, pastel roses, Asiatic lilies, carnations and daisy poms, artistically designed by our select florists in a beautiful pink frosted vase. For the perfect finishing touch, we’ve added a removable pewter picture frame on a pick as a lasting reminder of your love. Components may vary. Vase measures 9"H. Large arrangement measures approximately 18”H x 16”D. Small measures approximately 16"H x 14"D

Wedding Rose Club 6

2008-03-16T10:31:00.003-07:00

Rose & Mini Calla Lily Bride`s Bouquet

Description

Love is in blooms with this rose and mini calla lily bouquet that shows your sophisticated side. Three yards of satin ribbon are gathered around 18 stems of gorgeous roses and 6 stems of white miniature calla lilies, for a magnificent show of beauty.

® Orchid Embrace™

Description

Send your special someone to the tropics with our exotic bouquet of fresh Dendrobium orchids!White and purple Dendrobium orchids and decorative curly willow, artistically designed by our select floristsBasil green glass gathering vase; measures 8"HArrangement measures approximately 24"H x 24"DA terrific Valentine for the home or office. Components may vary.What's The Story?A true tropical treasure, Dendrobiums are sometimes called "Singapore" orchids for their native Southeast Asia habitat.

® Margarita Bouquet®

Description

What a way to toast that special occasion! They'll love our unique Lime Margarita happy hour bouquet, mixed with its yellow roses, white cushion pom, faux lime and more, arranged in an oversized margarita glass. It's an unforgettable gift that will keep the party going. Once the flowers have faded, they can reuse the oversized glass and always be reminded of you! Measures 14"H X 10"D. Components may vary. This gift is available in participating areas only.

Lenox® Rings and Roses™

Description

As a romantic surprise for that special someone who has won your heart, or as a birthday, anniversary or gift to congratulate the happy couple, this unforgettable bouquet of roses, lilies, orchids, and more arranged in our exclusive Lenox® vase will cause a stir! Available only at 1-800-FLOWERS.COM®, this fine ivory vase is an exceptional value. Adorned with a rose bouquet decoration and accented with intertwined 24 karat gold bands, it truly shines with our stunning bouquet. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Floral content may vary. Arrangement measures approximately 23"H X 20"D.This gift is available in participating areas only.

Wedding Rose Club 5

2008-03-16T10:31:00.002-07:00

Lace Votive by Preston Bailey

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Preston Bailey, the world's premiere event designer, lends his incomparable talents to this stunning glass votive to create a gift of beauty. Preston's striking lace design is delicately positioned on 100% Italian glass, hand-printed and silk-screened using 980/1000 silver. Once they receive this gorgeous gift, they can place a votive candle inside to light up a room or add it to their décor for all to admire. Measures 2"H x 5"D. Candle not included.

® Love`s First Bloom™

Description

Speak the universal language of love to the one who makes your heart soar with our exquisite bouquet of one dozen multicolored roses. Our florists select twelve of the finest, long-stemmed roses in a ravishing rainbow of colors and beautifully arrange them with delicate florals in a classic glass vase. Colors and varieties may vary. Arrangement measures approximately 22"H x 15"D.

Golden Anniversary Arrangement

Description

Mark a milestone with our Golden Anniversary Arrangement. This gorgeous design is packed full of rich toned flowers such as snapdragons, alstromeria, orchids, and others arranged in a gleaming basket fit to mark that 50th anniversary celebration. Our florists will chose the freshest flowers to make the occasion truly memorable, even if you can't be there to celebrate. A golden way to wish them a happy 50th Wedding Anniversary! To ensure the freshest quality, components may vary. Arrangement measures approximately 15"H x 12"W x 16"L.

Expressions of Pink™

Description

Send this exquisite arrangement of carnations, lilies and more to express your feelings loud and clear for that special someone!Carnations, Asiatic lilies, daisy poms, waxflower and salal, beautifully designed by our select floristsArranged in a charming pink glass vase; measures 6.5"HComponents may varyArrangement measures approximately 15"H x 12"DA terrific gift for any occasion, at a fantastic value you'll love!What's The Story?One of the hardiest of all flowers, the carnation is a lasting symbol of love, fascination and distinction.

Wedding Rose Club 4

2008-03-16T10:31:00.001-07:00

® It`s Your Day Bouquet®

Description

A new job. Your niece's first car. Your best friend's birthday. Celebrate their special occasion with our colorful It's Your Day Bouquet®, and let them know you think they deserves a day that's all about them! Our select florists combine bright, fresh flowers such as carnations and alstroemeria in an attractive glass vase that will WOW them and let them know any day is a great day to celebrate how wonderful they are! Components may vary. Arrangement measures approximately:Large: 18"H x 14"D Medium (shown): 18"H x 13"DSmall: 17"H x 12"D

Rose & Spray Rose Attendant Bouquet

Description

An abundant array of fresh roses and spray roses are gathered together to create this gorgeous bridesmaid bouquet. Eighteen white roses and seven spray roses are presented in an elegant gathering and complemented by a coordinating satin ribbon.

® Pink Perfection™

Description

Create a touch of pink perfection anywhere with this stunning fresh bouquet!Lilies, Gerbera daisies, assorted poms, monte casino, daisies, and lemon leavesClassic glass vase; measures 9"H x 4"DPicked at the peak of perfection from select floral farms Shipped overnight to ensure freshnessWhat’s The Story?Lilies were mentioned in history for the first time on a tablet that was inscribed in Sumeria nearly 5,000 years ago.

® Kudos Bouquet® Deluxe

Description

Our Kudos Bouquet™ Deluxe takes center stage as you celebrate their crowning achievement, prom or milestone event! Our florists create a presentation bouquet that's in the spotlight with roses, snapdragons, gerbera daisies, fragrant stock, breathtaking dendrobium orchids and more! And because you want to give them the royal treatment, our bouquet is adorned with a beautiful satin ribbon. Good show! Bouquet measures approximately 30"L. To ensure the finest quality, components may vary.

Wedding Rose Club 3

2008-03-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

Daisy Corsage & Boutonniere

Description

Sending a corsage and boutonniere is the perfect way to say, "You are special today!" Our florists will hand craft a fresh boutonniere and a corsage to be worn on the wrist or pinned on to the special celebrant! A combination of crisp daisies, monte casino and delicate greens will arrive from the florist gift-boxed and ready to wear for their special occasion. To ensure the freshest quality, components may vary. Measures approximately 4"W x 7"L.

Waterford® Crystal Lismore Tall Goblet Pair

Description

Lismore takes its name from an ancient village that dates back to the early 7th century, but there's nothing ancient about this stunning pair of goblets. The sophisticated tapered bowl is mouth blown – according to Waterford®'s tradition for over two centuries – and the intricate cross cuts are hand cut. The tapered pedestal stem is beveled to make any table setting an elegant affair! Set of two. Each measures 9.9"H.

Rose Corsage & Calla Boutonniere Package

Description

Celebrate that special day with this unique and sophisticated calla lily and rose corsage and boutonniere package. Gorgeous roses, a miniature calla lily and Italian Ruscus create a stunning and stylish look that adds just the right touch to their prom, wedding or any memorable event! Available in red, pink or white.

® Kudos Bouquet® For Celebrations

Description

Celebrate their turn to take a bow with our Kudos Bouquet™ for Celebrations. Whether it's for a music recital, dance, play prom, or other or special event, our florists create a presentation bouquet that takes center stage with bright roses, alstroemeria, delphinium and more, adorned with a satin ribbon -- the perfect gift to applaud their achievement. Bravo! Bouquet measures approximately 18"L. To ensure the finest quality, components may vary.

Wedding Rose Club 2

2008-03-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Wedding Centerpiece in Glass Bubble Bowl

Description

Create visual impact at your reception with this 8"H bubble bowl overflowing with gorgeous flowers! Twenty-five roses, white hydrangea, 'Millionstar' gypsophilia or white waxflower and curly willow make an elegant accent for every table.

Champagne Wishes™

Description

EXCLUSIVE! Celebrate the occasion in a big, big, BIG way—with almost 36 inches of elegant bubbly beauty! Artistically designed by our select florists inside a keepsake oversized champagne flute, this gorgeous gathering of fresh white blooms such as miniature calla lilies, roses, lilies, carnations, and cushion poms will have them raising a glass to your thoughtfulness! This colossal cocktail makes a terrific surprise for a wedding couple, anniversary, or any special celebration! Once the flowers have faded, the glass becomes a wonderful vase, conversation piece or a home décor item. Our florists select the freshest flowers available so colors and varieties may vary. Flute vase measures 23.5”H. Arrangement measures approximately 32”H x 16”D.This gift is available in participating areas only.

Rose Bride`s Bouquet

Description

Romance is in bloom with this classic and elegant bridal bouquet। Twenty-four gorgeous roses are gathered together with a stylish satin ribbon, for a coordinated look that is unforgettable.

Carnation Corsage & Boutonniere Package

Description

Traditionally, carnations represent love, fascination and distinction—and this beautiful corsage and boutonniere set is a fabulous way to convey your fascination with that special someone who means so much! Add extra flair to prom night or any night on the town। Corsage can be pinned on or worn on thewrist.

Bubble Bowl Bouquet

Description

This lavish arrangement of one and a half dozen roses makes an elegant accent for special occasions. It’s perfectly sized for a dining table, arranged in a glass bubble bowl and accented with delicate florals. Send it to transform a joyful celebration into a cherished memory. Measures approximately 12"H x 8"D.

Wedding Rose club 1

2008-03-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

® Kudos Bouquet® Petite

Description

Kudos to this presentation bouquet – the perfect tribute to a special achievement, prom or any milestone event! Pretty spray roses are artfully arranged by our florists with alstroemeria and mini carnations and more, adorned with a satin ribbon to make this a visual showpiece! Brava! Bouquet measures approximately 15"L. To ensure the finest quality, components may vary.

Waterford® Crystal 6" Lismore Bowl

Description

Make it a crystal occasion with a sweeping, sophisticated bowl so beautiful, it can stand alone! Tapered to be geometrically stunning, it shines with mouth-blown clarity, a hallmark of Waterford® for over two centuries. The popular Lismore pattern has deep hand cuts to reflect even the softest candlelight. It's a bowl they'll always want to display—an elegant look for any table. Measures 6"W.

Miniature Calla Lily Bride`s Bouquet

Description

The velvety texture and graceful form of these stunning miniature calla lilies makes them the perfect choice for your bridal bouquet of ultimate elegance. Twenty-five stems of white miniature calla lilies are tied with three yards of silky white satin ribbon, creating a look that's simply irresistible.

White Rose Boutonniere

Description

Your special guy deserves to stand out in the crowd too, and when he wears this double white rose boutonniere with ruscus, he will! Order additional boutonnieres, each with a single white rose and ruscus, for the groom's special friends, father, grandfathers or uncles।

Rose Corsage & Boutonniere Package

Description

Shout out how special your prom date is with this beautiful rose corsage and boutonniere set! Classic roses and Italian ruscus create a smart and stylish look. The corsage can be pinned or worn on the wrist. The dashing boutonniere makes that special guy stand out in the crowd!

Wedding Rose Club

2008-03-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

Mini Wedding Rose Cube

Description

Gorgeous blooms and unmatched fragrance make this collection of 8 fresh roses, white stock, white waxflower or ‘Millionstar’ gypsophila and curly willow in a 4”x 4” glass cube a statement of endless elegance!

Orchid Corsage & Rose Boutonniere Package

Description

Exotic and exciting, our striking cymbidium orchids and rose corsage with Italian ruscus creates a look that is just right for your prom, wedding or any special day. Corsage can be pinned or worn on the wrist. And the guy of your dreams will look as handsome as you imagined with a classic rose boutonniere pinned to his lapel.

Wedding Nosegay

Description

This handheld bouquet of classic romance is a lovely and charming way to complement the beautiful bride. Half a dozen roses and two types of eucalyptus create a fragrant bouquet of unparalleled beauty that is also a suitable bouquet for an attendant or Flower Girl.

Classic Wedding Centerpiece

Description

Timeless and romantic, this striking centerpiece of roses, miniature carnations, white daisy poms, 'Millionstar' gypsophila and leather leaf creates a mood of elegance that will delight your guests.

Wedding Centerpiece in Glass Cube

Description

Your unique style and personality is clear to your guest with this gorgeous wedding centerpiece. Inside a 6"x 6" glass cube is an assortment of 25 roses, white hydrangea, 'Millionstar' gypsophilia or white waxflower and curly willow that create a stunning and elegant look for every table at your celebration.

Wedding Ceremony Arrangement

Description

Decorate the altar with this striking wedding ceremony arrangement of roses, white snapdragon, waxflower, Italian ruscus and curly willow. It!s the perfect design to make an elegant statement on your special day.

Flower Cake for Wedding

Description

Toasting the bride and groom becomes a sensation with this scene-stealing wedding cake made of fresh, crisp flowers! Our Flower Cake is dressed in heavenly bridal garb – complete with pure white mums, white mini carnations and fairytale wedding trim topped with snow-white roses. Whether you’re the bride or the maid of honor, this cake brings a sweet slice of floral fun to engagements, bridal showers or the big day to make saying “I do” a piece of cake! Measures 10”H x 8”D.

Wedding Pew Arrangement

Description

Grace the end of each pew at your wedding celebration with this glorious gathering of flowers! One dozen roses, white lisianthus and white stock combine with white waxflower or "Millionstar' gypsophila and Italian ruscus for a dramatic and unforgettable floral creation.

Wedding Cake Toppers 1

2008-03-07T09:34:00.004-08:00

Glass Castle Wedding Cake Topper
This gold-accented glass cake top features stunning artisanship atop luxurious ruffles of lace and flowing ribbons। Measures 8" tall.

Mini Glass Castle Wedding Cake Topper
This detailed, hand-blown glass cake top features an enchanting, gold-accented castle on a reflective base। Measures 3-1/2" tall. (Flowers not included.)

Lighted Castle Figurine
The rich, sculptured crafting of this romantic design is perfect for a wedding keepsake. Lights from within using 2 D batteries (not included). Made of resin. Measures 7-1/2" tall with a 4-1/2" base.
PLEASE NOTE: This figurine is fairly heavy and requires proper support if used as a cake topper.

White Flower Picks Cake Topper
What's in for wedding cakes today? New shapes, fantasy themes, and designs that mirror other elements of your wedding day! This floral cake topper follows today's trend of decorating the cake with something spectacular! Includes 9 floral picks with pearl painted finish, and sparkling rhinestones। Measures 6" high.

Beautiful Dreamer Crown Cake Topper
What's in for wedding cakes today? New shapes, fantasy themes, and designs that mirror other elements of your wedding day! This floral cake topper follows today's trend of decorating the cake with something spectacular! Appointed with faux pearls and punched detailing, Beautiful Dreamer crowns your wedding cake in whimsical glory। Measures 3-1/4" high and 4-1/2" diameter.

Wedding Cake Toppers

2008-03-07T09:34:00.003-08:00

Jim Shore Bride and Groom Cake Topper
This charming traditional cake topper features a heartwarming, folk-art inspired design, intricate quilt-like patterns and warm country colors to create a unique addition to your wedding cake। Measures 10" high.

Precious Moments Disney Cake Topper
Title: Magically Ever After...
Weddings are wondrous, especially with the help of everyone's favorite mouse. With Disney magic at the heart of the celebration, the newly betrothed couple is sure to live happily ever after.

Precious Moments Wedding Cake Topper
Title: Have Your Cake and Eat it Too
This charming couple is just about to celebrate their first taste of life together as husband and wife. Will they gently taste each other's cake or will it be a face full of sweet surprises? The couple who receives this delightful figurine will have years of sweet memories of the delectable moment!
This Precious Moments figurine is made of porcelain bisque, measures 5-1/2" tall and weighs approx. 13 oz.

Precious Moments Wedding Couple
Title: To Have and To Hold
Bluebirds accompany this newlywed couple as they "cross the threshold." Bisque porcelain figurine. Measures 5 1/4".

Glass Horse and Carriage Cake Topper
Straight from a fairy-tale kingdom, this hand-blown glass coachman, pumpkin carriage and noble steed will grace a wedding cake with elegance। The 3-1/2" tall, gold accented cake top has a reflective base and measures 6-1/4" in diameter.