Wedding Invitations and Ideas For a Hot and Cool August Wedding

 August can be a beautiful time of year to get married. The hubbub of the June and July brides has passed and you can enjoy a nice quiet ceremony and reception. August is also getting closer to fall so you can take advantage of the summer weather and some of the influences of fall as well.
Invitations
While summer colors are bold and bright, your August invitations can also hint at some rich fall tones. Pick jewel tones with an earthy brown for an elegant look. You might want to pick designs in florals and leaf patterns for your August wedding. Your wedding invitations will be delivered to your guests in June and July, skip the summer look and opt for something different to make your invitations stand out.
There are no major holidays in the month of August, so you don't have to worry about planning around a holiday. However, many families plan vacations for the month of August, while the kids are still on summer vacation. Get your save the dates and wedding invitations in the mail early before your guests make other plans.
Ceremony and reception
August is still a great time for an outdoor ceremony and reception. Just keep in mind that the mid-day sun can be a little too warm for some guests. Have umbrellas and stands handy for shade. And some indoor space is never wasted as some will want to get out of the elements all together. Make sure you take advantage of the warm weather that lasts well past sundown. Your August reception can last well into the evening as the nights can stay warm well into the later part of the month. Don't forget to note your outdoor plans in your wedding invitation so guests can come prepared.
Your August wedding can include elements from summer and from fall. Add poached pears to the salad for a warm autumn feeling. Choose one chilled entrée and one hot to satisfy both summer and fall palates. Your caterer will know what is fresh and seasonal for your wedding date.
Keep your bar stocked with both red and white wines and plenty of water. For your signature cocktail look to fall fruits for inspiration - a cranberry martini or apple martini can be a perfect compliment to your late summer menu.
Flowers
Since it is still summer, you have many choices when it comes to flowers for your bouquet, centerpieces and ceremony and reception décor. Specific flowers in bloom in August include many colorful choices like Daisy Mums, Gerbera Daisies, Roses and Calla Lilies. Pick your favorite looks and colors to make your flowers like you've dreamed of. There may be some flowers that are more readily available in your area. You can save yourself some money by choosing local blooms. Check with your florist for the best advice.
Make the most of your August wedding with the freshest seasonal foods, blooms and colors. August is the prefect time to combine the best of summer and of autumn and make your ceremony and reception unique.

Consider a Long Island wedding.

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

Choosing a perfect wedding venue is the main issue that preoccupies the minds of the bride and the bridegroom. A perfect wedding venue will definitely make your wedding a dream wedding and an unforgettable experience for the guests.
Couples usually look for magical and grand venues, something that can sweep them off their feet, just like their love and emotions for one another. But, a wedding venue is actually a lot more than simply breathtaking ambience. It should be a complete package of catering, decoration, services, space, seating arrangement for the guests, parking facilities, separate space for the civil ceremony and reception.
When you are looking for a wedding venue, finalize your wedding guest list because seating arrangement for the guests should be adequate and enough for all the guests. It is customary for people to book wedding venues online, but you must pay a personal visit so that you can have a look at the venue yourself.
Parking facilities or valet parking is also essential for a hassle free wedding-venue. Some of your guests might be using public transport or flying from other cities to attend your wedding. Therefore, the location of the wedding venue is also critical as it should be accessible by everyone.
The decoration of the wedding-venue is of prime importance, even if you are going for a small wedding. The flowers and the table arrangement would be chosen by you. The wedding-venue that you are considering might have an in-house wedding planner. If you can afford him, discuss all the matters with him regarding the flower arrangement and the overall decoration. You can stay in-budget if you are selective in the choice of flowers.
Each wedding-venue has a digital album of different kinds of arrangements and decorations, which they have done in the past. So, ask the person who is dealing with you to show you the album or sample pictures, so that you can have an idea of the standard of the wedding services that they provide.
Catering is the most important aspect of wedding. Whatever menu you have chosen should be delicious and something which is liked by all the guests. A perfect wedding-venue should have an all-inclusive services including catering. But, it is imperative that you taste the food yourself to assess the quality and taste of the food. If you really like it, immediately sign the contract with the wedding-venue.
In some cases, even the perfect wedding-venues lack one thing or the other. You should weigh the pros and cons, and set your own priorities, because if one wedding-venue is deemed perfect by one person, it is not necessarily perfect for you. If your priority is a practical wedding with excellent services and average decoration and ambience, go for it. But, if you are looking for a splendid and grand evening then you shall have to inspect the cutlery, crockery, napkins, flowers, candles, furniture etc. yourself.

Professional Long Island Wedding Photography

"Long Island offers a wide variety of wedding venues, from Oheka Castle, the Hamptons, countless catering halls and more. All have their own unique beauty, which is why they make so many long island weddings memorable for newlyweds year after year. From indoors to out, every moment will be captured by Mark Kauffman a Long Island Wedding Photographer.

One of the most important people at the wedding is the photographer, aside from the bride and groom. The photographer is responsible for capturing and documenting the special moments you'll be having throughout the entire day. Video and pictures you'll look back on for lifelong memories of your long island wedding.

Since 1989 Mark Kauffman has been a long island wedding photographer. Mark believes that truly successful wedding photography combines quick spontaneous posing for formal portraits and continuous candids for a more alive recording. He artfully blends both traditional and journalistic coverage to create an exciting record of the wedding day, individually personalized for your marriages.

A second photographer is always provided for complete candid coverage. Averaging 800-1200 photos per wedding, multiple cameras, lenses, and yes, even films are still used, in addition to digital. Every photography package is customized to suit your needs and all services can be provided a la carte. Prepare for your wedding day with a pre wedding practice session to meet with the photographer. Custom printing of all proofs (5x6!) and many album styles and size choices are available to fit any budget."
By: Leonard Davidson

Planning a Beautiful Connecticut Wedding

 Long Island Wedding Venues

Despite being one of the smallest states, Connecticut is a state filled with variations in its landscape and cultures. Connecticut is a scenic state with mountains, forests, open farming lands, rivers, and a scenic coastline. The towns and cities range from quaint rural towns to large industrial cities along the coast. This variety offers many wedding backdrops and venues but none more steeped in American history and legend that provides unique Connecticut wedding venues than the Town of Mystic.
Mystic is located on the shores of Mystic River on the nationally renowned New England seashore that is located on the Long Island Sound. The town founded in 1654 is steeped in New England charm, with a downtown filled with quaint shops and restaurants.  This small unassuming sea town had been in the national spotlight having been featured in movies and commercials.
For a Connecticut wedding experience for guests, Mystic is the home of two world class museums, the Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration. For guests that enjoy the arts, guests can enjoy the Mystic Art Center exhibiting arts from the region. Mystic is also close to beautiful award winning vineyards and wineries, cider mills and many more area attractions.
Mystic has many different hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. Accommodations include hotels from national chains to quaint historic inns. The inns supply the guests and couple with views from sheltered coves and the fresh salty air of the Atlantic Ocean. Restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisine, which includes fresh seafood brought in daily from the Mystic Harbor for a tasty Connecticut wedding.
Mystic is known for romance ever since Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall honeymooned there in 1945. Venues include the beautiful and elegant Inn at Mystic, which offers spectacular views of the Harbor. The Mystic Aquarium can also host a beautiful Connecticut wedding.  Imagine exchanging vows in the light of the sea-blue underwater tanks. Among other perfect Mystic wedding venues is the Seamen's Inn. This Inn located on the grounds of the Mystic Seaport can host a wedding on the banks of the beautiful Mystic River.
Another advantage of being a seaport Mystic is home to various ship charters. Chartering a ship provides a perfect Connecticut wedding. The Tall Ship Mystic is 170 feet long and can accommodate up to 150 guests. The ship offers on-deck dining and lounge and even has cabins for overnight stays.  For a smaller wedding the Schooner ARGIA offers days sails in the salt air. The 81-foot schooner can host a wedding party of up to 49 guests.
Mystic offers all the services required for a perfect Connecticut wedding. From photographers who are familiar with all the picturesque sites that Mystic has to offer, to the florists who have experience proving the floral accents needed to make a spectacular wedding.  The local catering companies are serviced by great chefs who make the most of the local seafood and cuisine.
Mystic is shrouded in romance and the locals know it. The town has established itself as premier Connecticut wedding destination. Mystic wedding planners that can make any style wedding special by putting together a team that guarantees a memorable event.   Mystic is also home to one the 150 hottest wedding bands according to Modern Bride.

Elegant Catering Halls on Long Island

 Looking for an exquisite Long Island Wedding Venue?

At Lombardi's on the Sound at the Port Jefferson Country Club, is totally renovated and wonderful. Take pleasure in the magnificent panoramic views of the Long Island Sound at your next event. Five-hour open bar, top shelf liquors and wines. White glove service. Can you say swanky?
 
Marconi Manor, 333 Moffitt Blvd., Islip, New York.  We've entertained at Sweet 16 parties at Marconi Manor and we've always had fun. The staff enjoys catering and it shows. A very comfortable room. If you love Italian food, you'll fall in love with this place. Great prices too.
 
Mediterranean Manor Caterers, 303 East Main Street, Patchogue, New York. The Mediterranean Manor features all-inclusive wedding packages. Instead of shopping around for a limo and a DJ, the Mediterranean can offer you their hand-picked professionals that they know can do a great job for you. No nasty surprises here, just lots of fun.
 
The Metropolitan, 3 Glen Cove Road, Glen Cove, NY. We recently provided walk-around magic for a bar mitzvah at The Metropolitan. It's a beautiful catering hall. The architecture is unique. So many catering halls look the same, but The Metropolitan breaks new ground. The food was fantastic and the staff was so helpful. The kids really enjoyed this place. We also did some walk-around magic at an evening wedding last year. Very elegant.
 
The North Ritz Club, 7150 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, New York.  Lovely grounds and amenities including a natural pond, gazebo and majestic gardens. We've entertained at Sweet 16 parties and Bar / Bat Mitzvahs at The North Ritz Club. All we can say is "wow." You can't go wrong choosing this elegant club for your next event.
 
The de Seversky Center is located on 100 acres of beautiful grounds in Old Westbury. It's part of New York Institute of Technology's properties. It's a wonderful mansion. The food and service are really great. This is an unforgettable party venue, perfect for a big event.
 
Oheka Castle. 135 West Gate Drive, Cold Spring Hills, Huntington NY. The legendary Otto Kahn estate is available for truly special events. We did a Christmas party here and have to say this is one of the most impressive event venues we've ever seen. This place has history and charm that you can't recreate. I'd imagine you'd need a big budget to rent out a North Shore castle. If you can swing it, do it!

Choosing a Wedding Venue Wisely

While you are hunting for perfect wedding ceremony venues you need to decide wisely. It may happen that you finalize a venue and then come across another which is far better than the one you booked. There are various things that you should keep in mind before deciding a wedding venue, some of which include:
The first and foremost thing to look out for is the requirement. A person should always finalize a venue according to the requirement. Keep a record of the number of people you have invited for the ceremony. After you are finished counting the guests, check the amount of money you want to spend on the occasion. After thinking about all these things you can now make a choice if the venue is suitable enough.
The most important step which should be chosen very carefully is the facilities that the venue provides. Mot venues provide an onsite event planner that will assist you in taking care of the wedding arrangements. But you can also make arrangements on your own if you wish to. Assessing each and every amenity available to you is very important and you should check them before finalizing a venue.
Another thing which needs to be considered is whether the venue provides accommodation facility or not. If you are planning to accommodate your family members then you should make sure that the venue has enough space for all and also if you are provided with a facility of furniture or not.
Decoration is an important aspect and it totally depends on the budget. If you are opting for outdoor wedding venues then you will have to spend lot of money on the decorations. Otherwise, the venue would look pretty ordinary. You would come across various venues which would not allow you to put open flames and to avoid this problem you should have a discussion about the topic prior to the ceremony.
The most important thing is catering and there are various factors which are related to it. Most venues have an in-house catering department and they would not allow outside caterers to operate. But there are some people who want to book a certain caterer for their wedding; in such cases one should decide the venue according to the situation.
All the above mentioned points can help you find the best wedding venue in your area. While choosing a venue, have a budget in your hand so that you can define clearly as to what you are looking for. There are various websites that offer all sorts of information about wedding venues and you can easily find them through a search engine.

Best Wedding Dance Songs For 2010

When planning your wedding, you'll invest a lot of time and money to make everything as perfect as possible, including the wedding music. As a helpful resource, we've put together a list of great wedding dance songs for 2010. This selection of wedding dance songs feature both modern wedding dance songs and old favoritesthere's something here for everyone. Because it's 2010, you may choose to mix it up and go with wedding dance songs that are more current, unique, and creative. Your parents may have danced it up to the Bee Gees at their wedding, but you and your fiance can go with the tunes you both love. Of course, keep some classics in the mix for the older crowd, but everything doesn't have to be solely traditional.
Here's a list of wedding dance songs we feel covers a wide variety of music genres and has a little something for everybody, 'the chicken dance' not included. This selection of wedding dance songs feature both modern wedding dance songs and old favorites everything from Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga.

Classics:These wedding dance songs never get old.

'Endless Love' (Diana Ross and Lionel Richie)
'Can't Help Falling In Love' (Elvis Presley)
'Love Me Tender' (Elvis Presley)
'It Had To Be You' (Harry Connick, Jr.)
'From This Moment On' (Shania Twain)
'I Just Called to Say I Love You' (Stevie Wonder)
'Power Of Love' (Celine Dion)
'At Last' (Etta James)
'A New Day Has Come' (Celine Dion)
'No Ordinary Love' (Sade)
'The Way You look Tonight'(Frank Sinatra)
'When A Man Loves A Woman' (Percy Sledge or Michael Bolton)
'Nothing Compares To You' (Sinead O'Connor)

Here are some non-traditional wedding songs:

"Alison" (Elvis Costello)(
"All I Want Is You" (U2)(
"Crash" (Dave Matthews Band)(
"Everything I Do" (Brandy)(
'Beautiful' by Akon
"Forever in My Life" (Prince)(
"Heroes" (David Bowie)(
'Viva La Vida' (Coldplay)
'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing' (Aerosmith)
"Ice Cream" (Sarah MacLachlan)(
"Iris" (Goo Goo Dolls)(
'Crazy Little Thing Called Love' (Queen)
"It Must Be Love" (Madness)(
'Single Ladies (Put a Ring 1000 on It)' by Beyonce
"Kiss Me" (Sixpence None The Richer)(
"Love Song" (The Cure)(
'Sweet Child O'Mine' (Guns N' Roses)
"Waste" (Phish)(
"Wild Is The Wind" (David Bowie)(
"You're Just Too Good To Be True" (Lauryn Hill)(
'Just Dance' by Lady GaGa
'Like Someone In Love" (Bjork)(
"Luna" (Smashing Pumpkins)(
"Night & Day" (U2)(
"Stay By Me" (Annie Lennox)(
"Tonight, Tonight" (Smashing Pumpkins)(

Be sure to discuss song preferences with your band leader at least six weeks in advance. Don't worry if you have other songs in mind as most of the higher level dance bands and wedding bands will learn special wedding song requests, including your first dance song and parent dance songs. You do need to allow time for
them to prepare and rehearse, though.
Take time when selecting your wedding dance songs as they set the mood and create unforgettable moments at your wedding. Music makes memories that last a lifetime, so ask your Wedding Dance band to help you put together the best list of wedding dance songs. It takes a lot of hard work to make your day successful, but with some smart preparation, you'll put together a great set list of music and have an unforgettable wedding night.

By: E. Ronchetti

Unconventional Wedding Venues

A wedding is a ceremony in every family and people want to celebrate it in a grand manner. Weddings are usually planned meticulously. They are really a testing task for the organizer and it also reflects the stature of the family in the public. If a wedding is successful it reflects on the family. This is the reason everyone leaves no stone unturned when they are organizing a marriage. Since it is hard for one person to manage the entire affairs of the marriage, there has been an increase in the use of event managers in the recent times.
The job of the event manager is to oversee the total work and try to provide good suggestions to the hosts. The event managers try to make things as creative as possible so that the atmosphere is very nice.
Recently these event managers have started to come up with ideas for Unconventional Wedding Venues. These Unconventional Wedding Venues are the ones that are out of the box and are really a new place where no one ever organized such a wedding. It is usual for a wedding to take place in a hotel, but Unconventional Wedding Venues such as resorts, river banks, Village farms, etc. make the wedding look interesting and also they provide a particular ambiance to the area.
Unconventional Wedding Venues are starting to gain popularity and people also like the plans. This makes the job of the event manager tough. To select Unconventional Wedding Venues the event manager or the host must first of all try to make the location accessible to one and all. Then he must take care of all the facilities so that the guests aren't ignored. The event manager is hired to make things easy for the host. So the manager must be doubly sure that all is in control.
Unconventional wedding venues make the marriage look adventurous. This packs a punch if properly organized. This is because weddings are the most spoken about in gatherings and you must make sure that your wedding gets good attention so that you may feel satisfied. Unconventional wedding venues also are cheaper than the conventional ones because people rarely organize a wedding in an unconventional manner. Speaking frankly, people say "...winners don't do different things, they do things differently..." this is very much applicable here.
You don't need to spend a bomb to make a wedding look drop dead gorgeous. All you need to do is, to make it stand out in the pack. For this you need not organise it in a five star hotel. You can organise the wedding on a boat, or near a waterfall to provide it with a touch of unconventionality.
Believe me, these methods really work and they are sure to catch the eye of people. The only thing you need to make sure is that you don't fumble in the planning. So hire a good event manager and leave the rest to him after you have instructed him accordingly. Remember, the more you try to make things better, the better they will become.

The Top Honeymoon Destinations of the World

The Honeymoon is the most treasured and awaited occasions of one's life. Most of the couples want that it should be a memorable moment that is ever lasting. When they plan to go for a honeymoon they are really confused as to where to go and where not to go.
So let me tell you about the top honeymoon destinations where all the couples would love to go.
1. Honeymoon In South Africa
The best attractions to be explored by the couples is the exotic beaches, beautiful sunset, amazing natural beauty, majestic islands and a perfect blend of unique cultures make it the best destination for honeymoon. It is just apt for the newly married couples.
2. Honeymoon In Morocco
Morocco is also a famous honeymoon destination offering number of activities and events like water sports, marvelous architecture and desert festivals. Couples who are adventurous can enjoy some of the best sports here.
3. Honeymoon In Canada
Though Canada is a beautiful country but it is most famous for the Fairmont Chateau Lake. It is an amazing experience to enjoy the lake side views wit your beloved. The couples can also come across many other popular spots like the Victoria, Quebec City etc.
4. Honeymoon In Russia
Russia is well known for the charming beauty of the nature. The pleasant atmosphere with rich culture and traditions make it the most visited places by couples. You will find some delicious food and accommodation facilities.
5. Honeymoon In Malaysia
Most of the couples choose Malaysia as their honeymoon destination because here you can spend some romantic moments with your beloved and also explore a few great attractions. Sarawak is a famous place spotted by most of the honeymooners. It is renowned for the longest river and also the cave of the world.
6. Honeymoon In Turkey
Turkey is just the perfect honeymoon destination as it has an ideal blend of ancient and modern culture and heritage. Here you can get a variety of dishes which are delicious and mouth watering.
7. Honeymoon In Switzerland
Switzerland is very popular among all honeymoon destinations. The couples can tour the small villages which is the home for a variety of chocolates. The beautiful trees spread in huge area are the eye catching feature.
8. Honeymoon In France
It is the most romantic place with stunning beaches, well built cities, popular wine drinks, finest architectural piece and many amazing countryside views. It is best suited for a honeymoon drive.
So what are you waiting for just make a splendid trip to one of the destinations with your beloved? Hope you will have lots of memorable moments to cherish.

Save On Your Wedding Cake: Five Tips

Wedding cakes nowadays are growing more and more intricate. Several layers of cake, elegant cake toppers, and mounds of decorative icing can cause your cake costs to add up quickly.

Not long ago, I was browsing around a specialist cake bakery shop that also sold cake-making supplies. I asked about the cost of special-made wedding cakes and was shocked at the starting price. The lowest priced made-to-order cake was 300, and I wasn't even in London!

You can save your money when it comes to a wedding cake, though. Here are my top five ways to save money on a cake.

1. Get a sponge cake instead of a fruit cake

Even though fruit cakes are traditionally used as wedding cakes, more of today's brides choose sponge cakes instead. For the most part, sponge cakes are simpler than fruit cake because they don't involve soaking fruit or feeding the cake after it is baked. Therefore, sponge cakes save time and money.

If the thought of having all sponge cake doesn't appeal to you, you can actually add a little more elegance by creating a cake that has different flavours in each layer. My sister-in-law had two layers, one of which was an expensive passion cake and the other was a cheaper but still delicious chocolate sponge cake. The layers worked together beautifully and cut costs.

2. Do-it-yourself decorations

Unless you’re a wonderful baker, you probably don't want to ice your wedding cake on your own, but you can save yourself a lot of cash by doing the decor yourself. Fresh fruit, petals and flowers can be matched to your wedding bouquet and sprinkled over the cake for a beautiful effect.

3. Do-it-yourself cake

A great way to save lots of money is to bake your own wedding cake. If you’re not a fantastic cook or baker, you can ask a friend or family member who is good in that area to make the cake as a gift for you. They're sure to jump at the chance to help you out.

If you do want to create your own wedding cake, be sure to do a trial run, and stick with an easy recipe. The hardest part of turning out a beautiful cake is icing it correctly, so you may want to hire someone to do this part, or just choose to keep the decorating simple with fresh fruit and flowers.

4. Create a multi-cake extravaganza

Why not have a cake made of lots of mini fairy cakes? Create an interesting design by piling them up on top of one another or by using a traditional cake stand to create the illusion of a layer cake. You can use many flavours of cake and colours of icing, and you won't have any problems deciding how to cut the cake.

To make this approach work, bake the little cakes a couple of days ahead of time. If you have too much else to do, ask some friends to help you out by baking a dozen fairy cakes each. Each friend could also ice the cakes in different colours and use different flavours.

5. Try the supermarkets

If you need a beautiful wedding cake that is really cheaply priced, then check out your local supermarkets. Often, they'll carry many different cakes at very affordable prices. Marks and Spencer actually has a lot of cake styles and flavours; they look great, and the price is great, too.

Honeymoon Planning Tips

Planning a wedding can be stressful, so you want to make sure that your honeymoon is perfect. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when honeymoon planning.

• Shop around. Check the rates booking with the resort directly, versus booking through a travel agency. Sometimes travel agents have deals worked out with the hotels where you would receive complimentary upgrades or amenities, while paying the same price or less as booking direct with the hotel.
• Don't leave anything to chance. Research the property reviews online, or discuss your options with a travel consultant, to make sure there are no unwelcome surprises, such as hotel remolding, that would affect your honeymoon stay.
• If you can, try to upgrade some part of your trip: consider flying first-class, upgrade your room to a suite, or consider hotels that focus on honeymoon couples which are all-inclusive so. This is a special trip you will want to remember, so try to splurge if you can. All inclusive resorts allow for avoiding money problems upon your return from your honeymoon, particularly if you are on a budget, as everything has been paid for in advance.
• Research travel requirements for your destination of choice. Passports are needed for all international travel, so allow enough time for your passport to process prior to your trip. And brides, if your passport is issued in your maiden name, make sure that information on your air and hotel reservations matches your passport and any other required travel documentation. Airlines have gotten strict, and even want your middle names on the record if they are on your passport. Don't risk disappointment - make sure names match.
• It is not recommended that you fly out on the day of your wedding. Chances are you will arrive late to the resort and be paying for a room to just sleep. You will also be exhausted from the wedding. Try to fly out the next day - not too early if you can avoid it, and plan on arriving to your destination around 2 or 3 p.m. Keep in mind you cannot check into the resort until 4 p.m. anyway, so there is no need to rush and arrive early unless there are no other flights.
• Be patient! Something may go wrong, such as a flight delay or long lines at airport security...don't take it out on one another. Make sure each of you has a book, IPod or something to pass the time.
• Try to pick a destination that has activities that both of you will enjoy, or are willing to try for the first time, such as horse back riding, scuba diving or perhaps swimming with the dolphins. Talk about your expectations in advance. Do you both want to stay in a place that has lots of activities and dining options, or do you prefer a secluded villa somewhere with a private pool where you can order room service and not leave your room?
• Bring a copy of your marriage certificate if you are receiving gifts or amenities for being a honeymoon couple. Many hotels will want proof you are in fact married in order to give you these added benefits.
• Don't forget your camera, charger and plenty of memory to capture some of the special moments on your honeymoon.
• Remember: once you arrive at your honeymoon destination, enjoy yourselves. Relax, rejuvenate, and make the most of your time together.

Honeymoon Accessories That Will Make Life A Little

Packing for your honeymoon and being prepared sometimes is not an easy task. So you must plan. If planning means purchasing some accessories that will help your honeymoon be a little easier and more convenient then it is well worth it. So below I have listed a few different honeymoon accessories that you can purchase online for your honeymoon.
The Weekender Personalized Tote Bag
For all you gals on the go! This weekend tote is large enough for all your travel necessities. Tote bag features one exterior pocket and one interior zippered pocket. This is the perfect tote for weekend trips or vacations. Tote bag available in Natural/Black cotton canvas. This bag comes with a embroidered diamond monogram.

Personalized Toiletry Bag

A perfect gift for all your beauty needs. This soft suede finish bag comes complete with a removable mirror, individual inside compartments, carry handle and easy clean lining. This bag will make quick touch ups a breeze.

Just Married Tote Bag

Let everyone know that you just tied the knot!! Darling pink flip flop design embellishes the words Just Married. Fashioned in a natural canvas color and trimmed in black canvas. This bag features a single pocket on the outside.

Terrycloth Spa Robe

Slip into something a little more comfortable? This luxurious terrycloth spa robe makes a great gift for any occasion. This cozy bathrobe has a rolled collar and hits right above the knee so it's perfect for the spa, home or at the hotel on your honeymoon.

Bride Spa Robe

Let everyone at the spa know that you just got married. This is a very luxurious terrycloth spa robe that will make your honeymoon a little more fun when your at the spa.
These are just a few of the many different types of accessories that you can purchase online that will make your honeymoon a little easier and more fun.

Exquisite Wedding Honeymoon Destination

How to Choose the Best Honeymoon Destinations
Weddings and honeymoons are the two kinds of celebrations that people look forward to, plan for, and anticipate the most. You can further say from these experiences that ones memories will last the longest for years to come. All the more reason to pick one of the best honeymoon destinations for your special trip.
With as many kinds of people, so is the extent for selecting your honeymoon. Clearly as no two couples are the same, or comparable, no two honeymoons need be the same either. It is ideal to plan your honeymoon before your wedding really takes place so that you focus your time and energy on the occasion. Initiating a decision on the best honeymoon destinations should not be taken flippantly. Most likely, this is something you will have lifelong memories of, so exert some extra thought and attention into planning the excursion.
Even if you choose all inclusive honeymoons or simply just go there and decide what you want to do, a la carte, preparing in advance will take away a lot of the worries and headaches that you would be glad to avert during this once in a lifetime experience. Take into account where you want to go, and what you would like to do on your visit. The honeymoon is an exceptionally enchanting time, one to really bring two people closer together than another time. Naturally romance will not be all you will be doing during this time. Activities that both can enjoy together, can add a whole new dimension to the marriage. Think of what your expectations will be in terms of location and activities, in addition to those of your partner before planning on a list of best honeymoon locations.
If you take pleasure in the sun, surf and sand, and water sports, pick out all inclusive honeymoons that are at a beach resort, then feature such things to do in the package. However if you are the type that enjoys a more peaceful location that caters to full relaxation you can choose more remote destinations which avoid over commercialization. For you nature lovers, pick your destination that offers great hiking, biking or nature activities. People, who are interested in culture and in discovering various local customs and traditions, should pick places like South American locations, such as Rio, during the Carnival, or any of the Asian destinations.
There is an almost endless choice to pick from when looking for the best destinations from around the world today. Whether it is a luxury honeymoon destination where you can truly indulge yourself, and be pampered, or a rough and tough adventure honeymoon, think, plan, and do your research, to find the best place for your trip. Make your honeymoon truly memorable.

Beach Wedding Gowns

One of the most important thing that any lady is looking forward to when she tie the knot with her love one is the dress or gown she will wear on the much awaited important event of her life. Every woman from teenage years up to the time she is ready to be wed dreamed of a very unique special gown that will match her personality and life style. One such gown that these women dream of are the beach wedding gowns of the modern era.

Choosing one's wedding gown depends on the financial capabilities of the bride and groom and the place where the wedding will take place. If the event will be held in the church, traditional and formal wedding gowns from a very simple to a very expensive and elegant attires are expected of the bride, but if it is a beach wedding wearing traditional formal long gowns with so many trimmings and decorations may not be so appropriate, but if the bride so desire by all means the traditional and formal gown is still very much acceptable. Accessories and expensive jewelries go well with beach wedding gowns whether it is a church or beach wedding. Brides must also consider that beautiful and elegant shoes are also part of the gown she will wear on the most memorable day of her life.

Attires that connote love of the sea and its surroundings like dress with Hawaiian motif will surely match beach weddings with these beach wedding gowns. Trimmings and expensive decorations may not be considered on this gown but it could be very colorful and interesting to wear as it goes well with jewelries and accessories that could also be found on the sea from the genuine pearls to merely decorative pieces made of shells. Footwear could be a very simple flipflops or sandals also decorated with pearls or simply no shoes at all.

As in any event hiring a professional coordinator that will take charge of all the details of the affair is a must for the bride and groom so as to be free of all the hassles and problems that entail the preparations.

5 Alternative Wedding Venues

Nowadays you can get married almost anywhere, as long as you have the budget you'll be able to find a location. Now you no longer have to have a church or registry office followed by a reception in your local village hall or social club. Many venues now offer complete packages providing the venue for the wedding, meal and reception all in one so why settle for the traditional standard on your big day when you can have something special and unique. Here are a few ideas of the alternatives available to you.
Castles
There are many old castles still standing in the UK today and people have started to realise they can make excellent wedding venues. Just imagine an ancient medieval castle that may have once been used in a Hollywood blockbuster or was once an important part of British history. You could have a candle-light ceremony with all your family and friends and many castles offer the option of having a medieval themed wedding too. The beautiful grounds of many castles will offer ideal opportunities for your wedding photographs.
Golf Clubs
Golf clubs have become popular venues for weddings lately. This is because many provide not only areas for the wedding ceremony and reception but many also offer accommodation and facilities such as swimming pools. Being golf clubs most are set in lovely locations with well maintained gardens which would be perfect for photographs and if you have any golf mad relatives then there is always the opportunity for them to play a quick 9 holes.
Beach
Many couples are now choosing to have their big day abroad on a sun drenched tropical island and who can blame them? Couples are choosing to remove the risk of bad weather on their big day by going abroad where there is almost a guaranteed chance of good weather so they can have an intimate beach wedding surrounded by beautiful scenery, loved ones and palm trees. It also provides the newlyweds with the option to move straight on with their honeymoon and relax in the sunshine.
Football Stadium
Are you a footy mad couple? Then why not get married at your favourite teams football stadium. This may not be every ones cup of tea but many professional football clubs offer to have wedding ceremonies in many different areas of the stadium from the directors box to the home teams changing room. Most clubs have a variety of conference rooms available for hire and will often provide drink and food services as well.
Zoo
Chester Zoo is weirdly a common place for couples to tie the knot. Apparently many people have enjoyed their big day surrounded by a variety of wild animals. They provide full reception and ceremony facilities and I'm sure it will be a memorable day.

Top 10 Sure-Fire Ways to Stay Calm on Your Wedding Day

 

Wedding Day Health and Fitness Tips

It's nearing the big day. The planning, organizing and scheduling has been completed and now all that's left is the walk down the aisle. If you're like most brides, though, it's likely that while the details have been taken care of, you're still stressed out. So how to be calm and at ease as you make your way towards the alter? Easy if you follow Chatterberries' top 10 calming tips:

1. Hire a day-of-coordinator.

2. A day or two before the event, make a list of each garment and accessory you will need for your wedding day.

3. On the morning of, take a long soak in a hot bubble bath.  

4. "Let your vendors do their jobs," says Donnie Brown, celebrity wedding planner on the Style network and author of Donnie Brown Weddings from the Couture to the Cake.

5. Make sure you schedule your wedding day prepping so there's plenty of extra time for all that needs to be accomplished - it's better to have a few spare minutes in between hair, makeup, dressing, transporting to the church or synagogue, than to be harried, rushing from one activity to the next.

6. Set up a telephone call time in advance with your fiance, so on the day-of you can affirm your love for each other in private. Keep it brief, but intimate and soothing.

7. On a dietary note, Brown suggests that you eat protein on the morning of the wedding. "Yes, you are worried about looking perfect in your gown, but it might be hours before you get to eat, if you eat at all.

8. Keep your expectations in check. Seeking perfection in every single detail will strain your nerves.

9. Make sure everything is paid in advance of the wedding day, says Donnie Brown. "The last thing you want is to have to deal with payments on your big day.

10. If you feel really frazzled as you wait for the ceremony to begin, a few deep-breathing exercises will help calm your nerves, but so will laughing-a few days before the wedding, ask your bridal party (presumably your best pals), to jot down some funny stories you've shared in the past. On the day-of, while you're all together, read them out loud.

Latest Trends in Wedding Photography

Secondhand Isn’t Always Second-Best

When it comes to sticking to a wedding day budget, you'd probably assume that means giving up on your fantasy of walking down the aisle in a couture or designer gown. After all, the average designer dress starts at $3,000. But with the growing number of brides choosing to put their gowns up for sale instead of preserving them, there are plenty of designer duds just waiting to be snatched up at consignment and vintage shops, thrift stores, and online sites such as Ebay, Craig's List, PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com, SellMyWeddingDress.com and RecycledBride.com. The best part: you can save as much as 50 percent off the original price tag! Here are some tips for shopping secondhand:
Give yourself time. Since you won't be going to the typical bridal salon that has dozens of dresses on display, you'll want to start your gown search as soon as possible. It might take you a bit longer than usual to find the perfect gown-and this isn't a purchase you want to make in a rush.

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Secondhand Isn’t Always Second-Best

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When it comes to sticking to a wedding day budget, you'd probably assume that means giving up on your fantasy of walking down the aisle in a couture or designer gown. After all, the average designer dress starts at $3,000. But with the growing number of brides choosing to put their gowns up for sale instead of preserving them, there are plenty of designer duds just waiting to be snatched up at consignment and vintage shops, thrift stores, and online sites such as Ebay, Craig's List, PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com, SellMyWeddingDress.com and RecycledBride.com. The best part: you can save as much as 50 percent off the original price tag! Here are some tips for shopping secondhand:
Give yourself time. Since you won't be going to the typical bridal salon that has dozens of dresses on display, you'll want to start your gown search as soon as possible. It might take you a bit longer than usual to find the perfect gown-and this isn't a purchase you want to make in a rush.
See the dress in person. If you can, go to stores in your area that sell pre-owned dresses so you can look at the gown. "It's important not only to see what kind of condition the dress is in, but also to feel the fabric and see how the dress looks on you," says Dolly Savage, owner of Consigned Couture in Greenwich, Connecticut. If you're buying online, be sure to ask the seller to send plenty of photos of the dress from various angles so you can assess any damage.
Ask questions. When making an online purchase, you want to make sure the dress that arrives at your house is the one you were expecting. Some important questions to ask include: How much/long the dress was worn, what kind of alternations were done, and did it get damaged on the day. Be sure to keep a record of this correspondence in case you need to make a return.
Be prepared to clean. Keep in mind that most stains can easily be removed or minimized by a dependable dry cleaner. But anything that's yellowed can be tough-and there's no guarantee they'll be able to get it out at all. To save time, you might want to limit your search to high-end secondhand shops, which often only accept dresses in tip-top shape. "The gowns in my store are in near-perfect condition," says Savage.

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The Essence of Couture

In a world where design is often sacrificed on the altar of mass-market production, Charles W. Bunstine II is heretical. The CEO and head designer of the esteemed bridal house Anna Maier - Ulla-Maija prides himself on upholding the true meaning of couture in an age of irreverent usage. Having a dress made to match your measurements, proportions and body lines, well, that, according to Bunstine, is couture. And couture is the very heart of Bunstine's business.
A native of Columbus, Ohio, Bunstine began his meteoric rise to the apex of the fashion world during his college years. Taking a second job at The Limited to help pay bills, Bunstine's accidental fall into fashion soon turned into more than just a part-time gig. The future business mogul and couturier spent ten years at The Limited, getting to know all areas of the business, from product development and design to European sourcing. Having honed both his business acumen and creative juices at Limited, Inc., Bunstine moved on to lead, direct or advise several of the nation's most prominent retail and fashion companies. From becoming the President of Barney's New York, to writing the business plan for Vera Wang's ready-to-wear business, Bunstine's resume, prior to arriving at Ulla-Maija, was littered with career milestones the likes of which most of us mortals can only fabricate.

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2010 Runway Report: The Embellished Neckline

The embellished neckline is the important runway news in bridal wear right now, as seen in the spring 2010 and fall 2010 collections. Designers are taking advantage of elaborate details to trim the bodice of simple sheaths and draped silhouettes, billowing skirts and even ball gowns. Creatively used trims include hand embroidery, rhinestones, crystals and pearls. These and other effects like ruffles, pleats, rosettes and lace represent a refreshing update.
Uncharacteristically, the shapes of classic necklines have undergone a bit of revamping too...halters, v-necks, scoops and sweethearts are plunging, the one shoulder and off-the-shoulder are even more alluring, and even the demure and sophisticated high collars and bateaus have more sex appeal. There are so many reasons to choose a particular dress, and the neckline is a consideration. Here, a rundown on popular wedding gown necklines, plus the coveted looks to consider.

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Say Yes To Your Dress

Randy Fenoli has been designing and sewing gowns since he was a nine-year-old living in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. A fierce passion for design and fashion led Randy to design his own bridal line for many years - he's since developed a fine and perfected eye for embroideries, laces, beading and bustles. And it's his impeccable fashion sense that enables Randy to honestly advise brides when they're making their wedding gown decisions. He says that a bride's wedding gown is the most important dress she will ever wear. Now a star in his own right, Randy can be frequently seen on the hit TLC show, "Say Yes to the Dress," airing Fridays at 9 pm. Here, Randy's tips for finding the perfect wedding dress.

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Wedding Dresses

Say Yes To Your Dress
Randy Fenoli has been designing and sewing gowns since he was a nine-year-old living in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. A fierce passion for design and fashion led Randy to design his own bridal line for many years - he's since developed a fine and perfected eye for embroideries, laces, beading and bustles. And it's his impeccable fashion sense that enables Randy to honestly advise brides when they're making their wedding gown decisions. He says that a bride's wedding gown is the most important dress she will ever wear. Now a star in his own right, Randy can be frequently seen on the hit TLC show, "Say Yes to the Dress," airing Fridays at 9 pm. Here, Randy's tips for finding the perfect wedding dress.
                               
                                 Wedding Dresses

A Wedding Planner is a Must

Wedding planning is an important step in organizing your wedding ceremony. A well plan and executed wedding plan will ensure a smooth running wedding ceremony throughout the entire process.
A wedding planning is necessary because there is a lot of stuff and details need to be handling on that particular day or throughout the entire wedding process. From the day you propose until the day both of you walking into the church and fly into a honeymoon trip, everything single little thing need planning.
The planning process can be done by your own if you have the extra time and effort and can bear with the headache problem you will be facing later on. Or you can hire a wedding planner which is very popular nowadays to take care of your wedding party.
From the selection of wedding flowers, venue to the song for your wedding party, a well professional planner will have you in no hassle and you can enjoy your very own party with pleasure. These professional planners will require information, ideas and theme from you before they execute the plan or idea so that you can have your dream wedding in order.
Of course you can always take this thing into your own hands if you do not feel like to let other people to organize this important party for you. But most of the people will leave this details to the expert and skip the hassle of trouble organising because they want to enjoy their very big day instead of working hard to it.

Planning a Cost-Friendly Bridal Shower

Every part of the long journey to the altar should be memorable and fun, but it doesn't have to break the bank.
Take, for instance, the bridal shower. With gas prices the way they are, just getting friends and family to drive to the location is an expensive proposition. If you've been charged with arranging the shower, it is easier than you might think to have a grand time without a grand budget. As with everything, a little elbow grease and creativity will go a long way to helping you organize a special event with a minimum of cost.
Alicia on "Togetherness":
This is, at its heart, a more intimate version of the bride's reception, with only her closest friends and family invited. You will celebrate her upcoming union with stories, laughter and presents. That embrace of friendship is really important, not the presents. So, if you know that some of your friends are doing better than others, set a price limit on gifts or skip store-bought gifts altogether and ask your friends to make something, whether baked goods, a photo album or poem.
Sarah on "Time is on Your Side":
The trade-off is always the same: The more you do yourself, the less it will cost. But for most of us, free time is not abundant. So, lean on others for a little help. Include your friends and/or family members in the party-planning process. They can be particularly helpful when it comes to gathering multiple bids from vendors such as florists or restaurants, comparing different costs and availabilities and making important trade-offs. Don't be shy. Everyone will enjoy the shower more knowing they played a part in making it a success.

Here are a few tips to help you plan a fabulous and cost-friendly shower.

#1:There's No Place Like Home:

Restaurants, arboretums and hotel banquet rooms are not the only places to hold a shower. In fact, they generally pale in comparison to the warmth of someone's living room or kitchen. So host it at home - inside or, if weather permits, outside. If you really want to create an intimate celebration, ask each person to bring a dessert. Then the entire event is really just about the people who have gathered. If you're not comfortable hosting it at someone's home, try getting space at a tea room. You can get a lovely assortment of sandwiches and baked goods without needing a platinum card.

#2: Fun and Fancy Free:
Play games that are more about fun than finances. One classic is to break the group into teams and have each team create a wedding dress out of toilet paper. The guests get to be active participants as well as creative. The prize can be that the winner gets to pick the next game or perhaps gets to choose a cleanup duty. And at the end of the day, how many smiles were out determines the success of the shower, not how much was spent.

#3: A Little Hard Work:
Think more about the help the bride-to-be will need over the coming months than about gifts. Since the bride will likely receive all the useful items she will need at the wedding, create a "Little Help-her" bowl. Write down chores she might need help with over the coming months and put them in a fish bowl - things such as help with the invitations; picking up wedding guests at the airport; and pet-sitting during the honeymoon. When someone wins a game, the winner gets to draw from the bowl.