Best Wedding Destination

Cheap Groomsmen Gifts

February 18, 2013 by unzueta

Having the wedding you have always dreamed of is going to cost you. Sorry. You will soon discover that when vendors hear that you’re getting married, they usually tack on 10 percent to their normal costs. BUT, it is your wedding and you will want to everything to be perfect despite the cost. Shoes, rings, wedding photographer, reception that your friends will be envious of. Unless you suddenly hit the lottery, you will most likely be working off of a wedding budget.

It’s not easy cutback on your expenses. Like most marrying couples, you will want the latest and greatest in wedding trends. And it’s so hard too when there are hit shows, displaying what your wedding should look like. Yes, it is your wedding, and you’ve probably been thinking about this forever. However, it is just one day. You don’t want to spoil your wedding budget in one shot. Do you really want to start off your marriage in debt?

Cutting Expenses
If you’re watching those reality wedding shows, you will see that those brides are completely unreasonable. You do not have to be that person. Look at what is most important to you? Is it having your dream wedding dress? A particular wedding venue? Whatever it is, cut back on minor things in order to have what you truly do want.

Cheap Groomsmen Gifts
This is one area you can easily cut back on. Men are easier to please than you think. Not only that but these are a handful of close friends and family. They will not be picky in what you give them. In fact, you might be surprised in finding that they don’t expect much at all. Cheap groomsmen gifts does not mean something from the 99 cent store. You can easily find something tasteful and elegant. Think simple, not elaborate.

Around $50
Pistol Shaped Cigarette Lighter
Fun cufflinks
Engraved Wallet

Under $50
Engraved Brushed Flask and Zippo Lighter Gift Set

Star Wars Triology Movie Set
Titanium Money Clip
John Wayne Classic Movies
Audio-Technica ATH-M30 Professional Studio Monitor Closed-back Dynamic Stereo Headphones
iPhone speakers
Cool gadget watch
Personalized Soft-Sided Cooler
Gift certificate to a local steak house
Wine tasting for two
A nice bottle of their favorite liquor

Under $20
Casio Men’s MRW200H-1BV Sport Analog Dive Watch
Season Television Series Set

Board Game
Cross Classic Century, Lustrous Chrome, Ballpoint Pen (3502)
Six Pack from the Local Brewing Company’s Special Brew
Cigar—you might be able to purchase these online for a good price
Personalized Beer Mug
Camping Set—with compass, knife, flashlight
Beverage Cooler

There are so many other cheap groomsmen gifts not mentioned here. At least, this will get your wheels turning. If you have something specific in mind, check out eBay and Amazon. They always have great “lot” sections. You might be surprised what you find.

1 Comment / Tags: Wedding Budget, wedding party / Posted in Wedding Party

Tips on Reducing Wedding Stress

February 12, 2013 by unzueta

Two families coming together can cause a great deal of tension. You are literally throwing strangers together in a situation that may be completely foreign to them. You might also be fostering a clash of styles and taste. To top it all off, you and your loved one might be smack in the middle of it. It is a situation twisted with disaster, debt, and possibly danger. Luckily for you, there are ways to defeat these evil wedding monsters and create the wedding of your dreams.

Here are some tips to help you relieve some of the wedding stress:

1. Organization. Even if you are the least organized person in the world, if you want to relieve some of the wedding stress, you must get organized. Write everything down. Keep forms with caterers, wedding dress designers, guests, tasks, shopping expeditions, and so forth in a tidy binder. There are plenty of wedding planning books on the market to help you achieve this organizational goal.

2. Go for a walk. The trick here is to use up stressful energy. Consider taking phone calls outside for a short walk. Walking also helps keep you in shape and get toned up for your big day.

3. Drink more water. Limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and other sugary drinks. These kind of drinks can make you fidgety, nervous, and anxious. Who wants that before their wedding?

4. Meditation. Take a few minutes a day to stop your thoughts by doing deep breathing exercises. By breathing deeply, you relax your mind and nervous system. Adrenaline slows down, making you feel good. Meditation is an excellent way to reduce wedding stress.

5. Laugh hard. Laughter is the best medicine. You can watch a funny movie or add a joke app to your phone. It helps will help you forget that the wedding invitations are late and put you in a good mood.

6. Take a warm bath. Dim the lights and put on soft music. By taking the moment to finally read that book on your dusty shelf, you will instantly be soothed to a better place where wedding stress does not exist.

7. Vino. One glass of wine is great. It will make you relax, but too much of a good thing is not good for you.

8. Chamomile tea or warm milk. These drinks naturally help you reduce the wedding stress and relax without the caffeine.

Do not underestimate the power of organization. When you get yourself organized, you feel like you’re in control again. You know exactly what is going on, and what you haven’t forgotten. Think of how embarrassing it will be when you forget a crucial part of the wedding on the day of the ceremony.

Check out more of our other wedding planning tool suggestions: CLICK HERE

No Comments / Tags: Wedding Planner / Posted in Wedding Planner

Sweeten It Up With A Wedding Candy Buffet

February 6, 2013 by unzueta

Nowadays, it’s all about creating an experience. There is no one-size-fits-all wedding reception. If you want to get married on horseback out in the country, you can easily do that. Anything goes when it comes to wedding planning because it is all about you. What most couples go for more than anything is to let their personality shine in the wedding planning process.

For many couple, this translates into a spectacular and fabulous wedding candy buffet. This takes the place of the more traditional wedding desserts and favors. Guests can indulge in a little sweet celebration of the marriage.

If you are considering having a wedding candy buffet, there are so many options out there. It’s also not as expensive as you may think. In many cases, it’s even cheaper than your standard wedding cupcakes and desserts. Why? Because buying bulk can be your wallet’s friend. Look for candy that matches your wedding color scheme and wedding theme. Also offer something everyone will love. Like chocolate! Yum. However, there are those who have serious food allergies, and you don’t want an ambulance arriving on your special day. If you have something peanut-related, put a small sign warning your guests.

With such a wide variety of candies and confectioneries out there, you surely won’t feel limited. If you search for “chocolate confectionery,” “sugar confectionery,” or “flour confectionery,” you will see the assortment available. It might be overwhelming, but focus on the fun of putting the candy buffet together.

Also, think out of the box with the candy containers. Sure, there are the traditional candy jars, but again, have fun. Think of over-sized margarita glasses or different sized flowerpots.

For a garden reception, you may consider butterflies and lollipops for a little playful effect. You can also add a few lollipops shaped like flowers- roses, tulips, daisies. Milk chocolate roses are always a big hit.

For a beachfront wedding reception, there is plenty of bulk candy products shaped like sea creatures. Golden foiled chocolates shaped like seashells. Or hard candy shells. For fun, you can add a few bright colored umbrellas usually reserved for adult beverages.

Caramels mixed with chocolate. Fudge and nut candies. Candy corn and butterscotch hard candy. There are endless candy combinations you can create for your wedding candy buffet. Don’t forget to give out takeaway containers so your guests can carry home some of their favorite sweet treats. Get creative with the containers too. If it’s a beach theme wedding, you can give out a small pail and bucket. This also serves as wedding favors, saving you time and money. Gotta love that!

There are no restrictions on how to plan a wedding candy buffet. Play with it. It’s all for fun, after all. It is a chance to feel like a kid again for you and for your guests. Like big kids in a candy store.

No Comments / Tags: decorations, Favors / Posted in Wedding Favors, Wedding Guests

Wedding Decorations

January 30, 2013 by unzueta

Planning a wedding is no small task. There are several details to consider- table decorations, choosing a photographer, wedding favors, and a slew more. Brides spend endless hours preparing for their special day. Wedding parties and wedding receptions take up most of the time in planning the wedding. If given proper attention and with enough resources, the wedding of your dreams can be pulled off effortlessly and beautifully.

Do not overthink the wedding decorations. It is definitely a big concern for most brides as they want it to be absolutely perfect. There are plenty of elaborate table decorations that will cost you a pretty penny, but luckily, you do not have to spend too much time or money for the wedding decorations to look amazing. You can combine table decorations with wedding favors to make the table decorations look appealing. Popular wedding favors like potted plants, fish in bowls, baskets of goods, picture frames, and so on make tables look that much more beautiful. To cut down on cost, you can make your own wedding favors. Another saving money tip is to find favors that will serve as both wedding decorations and wedding favors.

Even those with steep pockets have to think about money when planning their wedding. The beauty of planning a wedding well in advance is that you have time to shop for good deals. Wedding party supply stores provide discounts for items purchased in bulk. Let’s not forget eBay and Amazon that also offer lot items at a fraction of the cost. If you are looking at buying decorations that do not cost much but are already made, look at Etsy.com. You should also consider some fun wedding favors like sparklers, bubbles, confetti. Weddings are celebrations, after all. These types of favors can be bought in bulk and are enjoyed by all.

If you are lucky enough to have a bigger budget, you can choose more expensive, more elaborate wedding decorations. If you really want to customize your wedding without the price, there are plenty of decorations you can make. If you mix up the homemade decorations with those store bought, your guests will most likely not know the difference. Also, knowing that you made the decorations makes them that much more special. If you are not the crafty type, someone in your wedding party or attending your wedding is. Don’t be afraid to ask either. People love to be part of the wedding.
Together, the bride and groom should decide what wedding reception decorations is suitable for the tables. In the long run, it is their special day, and what matters most is that they are happy.

For More Wedding Decoration Resources:
The Knot Wedding Decorations
Party Cheap Decorations
Exclusive Wedding Decorations
Factory Direct Craft
Save on Crafts by the Bridal Shop

1 Comment / Tags: decorations, Favors / Posted in Wedding Favors

Getting Wedding Insurance

January 26, 2013 by unzueta

Surely some of you have never heard of wedding insurance. Although you may scoff at the idea of insuring your wedding, it has some serious perks. If you purchase a short-term wedding insurance plan, you may save yourself a lot of grief if something goes wrong. And let’s face it, something will undoubtedly go wrong.

Types of Wedding Insurance
There are two types of wedding insurance. 1- Wedding Cancellation Insurance and 2- Wedding Liability Insurance.
Wedding Cancellation Insurance covers your wedding if it has to be cancelled because of bad weather, the officiant doesn’t show up, etc. Your deposit, wedding attire, photographer, and more will be covered under this plan.
Wedding Liability Insurance covers your wedding in case of injury or property damage. This is the more common type of wedding insurance when venues ask for an insurance requirement.

When To Purchase The Insurance?
If you are interested in purchasing wedding insurance, you should do so as soon as you start shopping for dresses and venues. There are some companies that will not allow you to buy a policy until 24 months before the wedding. Others will allow you to purchase the insurance policy up to 15 days prior to the wedding date. Just like any other insurance policy, shop around until you find one that best fits your price and your needs. Similar to most insurance policies, you can even purchase a policy online.

What Do Policies Usually Cover?
Not all policies are the same. Read over the policy before signing it to make sure the items you need covered are included.

Here are the most common items:
• Weather
• Illness/Injury
• Missing Officiant
• Missing Vendors
• Location

Other riders:
• Military Service
• Gowns and Tuxedos
• Gifts
• Liability
• Honeymoon

Usually not covered:
• Cancellation due to cold feet
• Cancellation due to something you knew prior to taking out the policy

Destination Weddings
Wedding insurance is highly recommended to those having destination weddings. Although most people trust their travel’s insurance will cover the cost, you can’t completely rely on this especially when weddings are so costly. If you are unfamiliar with the country and the vendors, wedding insurance might help you breathe a little easier.

To Purchase or Not Purchase
Most couples will find it laughable to take out a wedding insurance. Often times, couples are under tight financial wedding budgets. They do not want to make the extra expense. Considering that weddings cost thousands of dollars, their money would otherwise not be recovered if something unthinkable happens. You might find that it is a great peace of mind to have a security blanket that you will not be out thousands of dollars should a tragedy occur.

1 Comment / Tags: Wedding Budget, Wedding Planner / Posted in Wedding Planner

Monogram Wedding Cake Toppers

January 21, 2013 by unzueta

Monograms customize the look and feel of any item. In an office setting, an embroidered monogram on clothing gives it that extra special touch. Monogram stationery shows your unique flare to those who receive your letters. They are not just for clothes and paper either. Monograms are great to add elegance to an atmosphere. In particular, it adds sophistication to a wedding. If you are planning a wedding, you should think about using a monogram design for your wedding cake toppers.

There are so many wedding cake toppers out there. Many brides try to match their wedding cake topper to their wedding theme. For example, a beach wedding will have a bride and a groom in hula outfits and straw hats. Or for winter weddings, the wedding toppers can be Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. At the very least, you are free to choose something different and fun to personalize your wedding cake.

Creating a custom monogram wedding cake topper is relatively easy. Almost every wedding store offers a preset design for you to choose from. There are plenty of stylish and classy letterings to pick from. You can also decide from certain materials.

Consider the size and design of your wedding cake. Another important factor to consider is the right color of your monogram wedding cake topper. The options are almost limitless. For something that stands out, try going with something like ruby red or topaz blue. If this is not your taste, gold and silver are the more traditional color choices. Think of using solid brushed metal of gold acrylic mirror.

There are so many different types of monogram wedding cake toppers too.

Crystal covered single letter monogram. It adds a touch of beauty.

Silver finished monograms. If you would like the classic look of crystal minus the expense, this is a good option.

Ceramic monogram. It yields two very different effects.

Rhinestone monogram. It creates the flashy look so popular in today’s weddings.

There are plenty of resources to find these items. A wedding supplies and accessories store will provide good places to search. If you are looking for something in specific, look around. You can always ask friends and family of good but lesser known wedding shops.

Monogram wedding cake toppers that are difficult to find or highly unique might be costly. Sometimes, you will pay for the number of letters, the size, or how elaborate the decoration is. Don’t be afraid to make this expense. We are talking about the wedding cake after all. It is a huge part of the wedding, and hosting a wedding in itself is a rare event.

There are plenty of online sources that offer monogram wedding cake toppers.
http://www.weddingcuts.com/
http://www.weddingcollectibles.com/Monogram-Cake-Toppers.html
http://www.advantagebridal.com/wedding-cake-toppers.html

Here are Some of Our Favorites from http://Etsy.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/AprilHilerDesigns?ref=seller_info
http://www.etsy.com/shop/NDetailDesign?ref=seller_info
http://www.etsy.com/shop/betteroffwed?ref=seller_info

No Comments / Tags: cake / Posted in Cake

Get Married in Romantic Italy

January 14, 2013 by unzueta

There is no more romantic place than Italy to celebrate your wedding and bless your new life with your partner. Its incredible, ancient history, amazing city art, moving scenery, vibrant culture and lifestyle make this the best destination to say your wedding vows. Italy is full of magical places, including ancient chapels, beautiful mansions and romantic getaways. Along with its friendly environment, this is definitely the most romantic country to celebrate the most important day of your life.

Florence

Florence is maybe the most charming city for planning a wedding, with its excellent rentals and wonderful, relaxing environment. Situated within the region of Tuscany, Florence was the chair of the Italian Renaissance. It has several famous museums, and it’s the place where you can see the most important Italian art such as Michelangelo’s David. Furthermore, because of local regulations, people from other countries may find it easier to have a wedding here than in other parts of Tuscany. This popular Italian destination may be one of the most romantic places to consider for your Italian wedding. Strolling through the city of Florence, one will continue to be surprised by the range of historical structures, moving flatlands and the warm, welcoming lifestyle. Florence’s delightful Tuscan delicacies are sure to pleasure your wedding reception guests as they enjoy the romantic environment with the places, waterways, and boat trips that completely catch the miracle of this significant event. The landscape all around Florence is graced with spectacular structure surrounded by vibrant plants, making your day absolutely memorable.

Rome

Whether you choose a civil or spiritual wedding, there is no other town like Rome, where you will find such a wonderful mix of beauty and energy. You can select between different types of places to celebrate a religious wedding according to your beliefs (Catholic, Protestant, Judaism, etc.). Getting married in the capital means having a wedding in a wonderful perspective, and it is possible to use the opportunity to plan a few days of vacation to see stunning locations. Go back over the Roman trail: Colosseum, Vatican, Sistine Cathedral, Castel Sant’Angelo, Campidoglio, Quirinale, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and much more on. For your wedding you can select from different locations: a high-class resort in the town center, enclosed lawn rentals, farmhouses in the historical countryside towns, etc. You can also opt for the wonderful Bracciano Lake, made popular by Tom Cruise’s wedding in summer 2007. The capital has long been one of the most traditionally well-known locations to have a spiritual wedding. The ancient, spiritual characteristics of the nation goes without saying and is in addition to a series of historical mansions, castles and chapels where other marriages from hundreds of years ago took place. How amazing! The cathedrals, rentals and even floral landscapes provide an awesome structural background. The structure of these historical structures alone is something that your visitors will not be able to take enough images of.

Venice

With a multitude of pathways and waterfronts, Venice is the most ideal location for not only weddings, but loving wedding pictures. Say your marriage vows in a regional cathedral and then capture your pleasure permanently with images at the Ponte di Rialto or Ponte delle Guglie. You can also connect “love locks” to the Ponte Milvio or Ponte dell’Accademia, promising your commitment with a key. Venice’s regional solitude first kept it distant and secure, and now keeps it the same and magical. Even though most guests have information about Venice from films and pictures, the truth is surprising and requires seeing the sights first-hand. Dreamlike, amazing Venice seduces an incredible number of guests every year! Venice is a tourist’s paradise. A loving marriage and honeymoon vacation here will be memorable. The resorts along the “strip” provide the best views of the spectacular lagoon. Couples might also be enthusiastic about discussing a hug under the Ponte dei Sospiri, because according to tale, fans who hug under the Bridge of Sighs while driving a gondola at sundown are permanently endowed.
Note that in the Veneto region, there are other essential areas such as Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet.

The Author

Cristiano Brizzi is an Italian wedding photographer appreciated by his international customers for the innovative and romantic style of his pictures. He and his team of wedding photographers are dedicated to catching all the feelings of that memorable day, just the way the couple wants to remember it. See your style for yourself and peruse his romantic pictures at his website www.photographertuscany.com and his blog www.photographertuscany.com/wedding/

No Comments / Tags: Pictures / Posted in Pictures

Used Wedding Dresses

January 1, 2013 by unzueta

You’ve found your soul mate, and you are now planning your dream wedding. If because of bad luck you can’t afford to buy a new wedding dress, consider buying a used wedding dress. There are so many beautiful used wedding dresses available nowadays. It is not difficult to find a great bargain to fit your budget. Many brides choose to sell their wedding dress than to store it in a box. Believe it or not, you can even find wedding dresses in charity shops, dress agencies, online auctions, and not to mention the several online bridal stores.

The month of June is a great month to go wedding dress shopping. Many stores go on sale during this month. Also, some of these used dresses are not necessarily “used.” They include dresses worn by the mannequins and displayed on the windows. This does not include the dresses that were not saleable or forgotten to be picked up.

If you go online, you will find many used wedding dress options. Use keywords like wedding dress discount, used wedding dresses, used wedding gowns, wedding dress bargain. SEE LIST BELOW FOR MORE INFO. Craigslist is an excellent source. You never know what you will find on Craigslist.

Do your homework. Know your measurements and preferred dress styles. This will make buying a used wedding dress easier to choose according to your needs. Check for any damages or stains before you make the purchase. If they cannot be removed, try to put beadings or other embellishments to hide it. Additionally, send it to the cleaners before your big day to make it look as good as new.

The veil is just as important as the wedding dress itself. It is not as expensive, and you can get a brand new one for relative cheap.

A study recently showed that Americans spend on average $10,000 to $14,000 on their wedding. This is a substantial amount. It might make you feel better to pay as little as $200 for a used wedding dress. It is not traditionally what you planned for. However, if it makes you feel beautiful and sophisticated, it is a small price to pay.

Although you may think you have the perfect dress, make sure that your used wedding dress fits well. Ask the owner of the store if there were any alternations. This would change things quite a bit on a dress even when the tag says size 14.

Another popular alternative is to rent a used wedding dress. Is it wrong when a guy rents his tuxedo? It shouldn’t be wrong when a woman rents her wedding dress either. Talk about a savings! There are several locations to choose from in your local area.

Unless you tell your guests, no one will know that you’re wearing a used wedding dress. Most people will assume that you purchased your dress new or had it made. If you carry yourself with style and grace, no one will know the difference.

Save Money On Your Wedding: Click Here!

Here’s a GREAT List of Online Sources:
http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/
http://www.oncewed.com/used-wedding-dresses/
http://www.recycledbride.com/
http://www.usedweddingdresses.com/
http://woreitonce.com/
http://www.smartbrideboutique.com/

Happy Shopping!

No Comments / Tags: Wedding Dress / Posted in Wedding Dresses

Wedding Favors for Winter Weddings

November 13, 2012 by unzueta

Although the height of the wedding season is in the summer, winter weddings can be beautiful and just as romantic. A couple planning a winter wedding can incorporate many of the wonderful season themes. They can give their guests wedding favors related to the cold season or holiday time, depending on the preference of the couple. Let’s look at a few wedding favor ideas.

Ornament Fun
Christmastime is a great time to get married. Just think of all the options for wedding favors. One popular idea is to give each guest an ornament with the names of the bride and groom and the wedding date. If you purchase these after the holiday season the year before, the marrying couple can save a substantial amount of money. A personalized wedding favor like this will help guests remember the lovely wedding day during such a festive time of the year.

Oh Christmas Tree!
Another great idea is to give everyone small, artificial Christmas trees. The marrying couple can adorn them with wedding bell ornaments, or they can be given away as is. This would allow the guests to decorate them as they please. Giving away seeds a popular wedding favor idea. The wedding couple can give away seeds for Christmas trees or poinsettias.

Let It Snow
Snow globes are fun and a very appropriate winter wedding favor idea. The snow globe can have a special scene like a lovely mountain or ice skaters with a couple in the center. This is a very uncommon wedding favor and very much appreciated since it is not a typical gift during the summer. What a fun wedding favor for those snow globe collectors.

Bring the Outdoors In
Another winter season wedding favor is a miniature sled with the names of the bride and the groom and the date of the wedding painted on the sled. This is a rather cute decoration which can be displayed as a knick knack or used as an ornament on a Christmas tree.

Feed ‘Em
Everyone loves edible wedding favors. Warm, comforting drinks go perfectly in the cold season. Think of giving away yummy hot chocolate, exotic coffee, and herbal tea for a winter wedding favor. Add the drink package to a personalized, seasonal mug. Or, it can be given as is. There are many wedding favor distributors who can personalize the packages with names and dates, making them more festive as a wedding favor.

There are so many great favor options in having a winter wedding. The bride and groom might find more options for wedding favors than in summer months. Winter weddings can be just as beautiful and just as magical.

No Comments / Tags: Favors, winter weddings / Posted in Wedding Favors

Always the Bridesmaid, Never the Bride

November 9, 2012 by unzueta

After a long summer, wedding season, I found myself asking, “Why am I not getting married?” Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Oddly enough, I found myself looking for answer from an intuitive named Shawna.

Shawna, the Intuitive
I know, I know what you are all going to say. An intuitive? In a nutshell, Shawna’s method is channeling. Over the phone, she gave me a world of information without knowing anything about me. This was so different from the look into a crystal ball we are so familiar with. She started by telling me of the colors around me. She accurately described the color of my business card and my business website. Lucky guess, I suppose. Then she said I had a lot of sand around me. I live on an island. She mentioned my new career and the work I had been doing with meditation. She noted the successes and momentum that was building in these aspects of my life. All of which was great, but what about my love life and my endless walk down the aisle as a bridesmaid.

I’m Not Ready
She said it in very simple words: I wasn’t ready. Oddly enough, it was rather freeing to hear her say that. I felt pressured by myself, my life circumstances, and especially by others, to be married. Most recently, I clung firmly to a wonderful man. With him, I thought I would finally stop being the eternal bridesmaid. He was handsome, kind, and safe. Ah, there’s the word. It was safe to be with him because I trusted him. He was always busy because of his profession which made things nice for me. Neither of us could get too close even though we both played the game of tug-a-war. There was such a pull to be together because we had an incredible connection unlike one I had ever felt before.

Shawna said that I had just opened the door to what could be. I wouldn’t want to be with someone like him anyways, she said, because I’m evolving. I would be bored and unfulfilled. He would never be able to give me the type of depth I want from a relationship. He gave the perception that he could, but I would always be “hungry” for more. Boy did she nail that one! Even when we were at the height of our relationship, I always felt like there was something missing. Still, she assured me not to be too upset about that relationship because he was the perfect man for me at that time. Somehow, her words gave me the courage to let go of him. From that minute onward, I released him. It felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.

My friends would say things like, “Oh, he’s just not that into you.” “He should make more time for you.” Blah, blah blah. Really, it was never about him. It was always about me. I simply was not ready for more. I have so much to be grateful for. He taught me ME; he led me to the door of awakening. Thank you, thank you.

Change is necessary
Shawna said, “It’s ok to change. Change is necessary for more to come.” Then she gave me something that was wonderful. She said that I would find that connection and depth even deeper than I have ever felt before. When she said this, I felt such a wonderful sense of sureness, security, and knowing. He is coming, and he will be here when I am ready. In the meantime, I’m getting ready to be ready.

Enjoy
Shawna reminded me that I should dance more at weddings. It’s ok to be a bridesmaid. If I were getting married, I wouldn’t want my friends jealous or envious of me. I would want them to be happy for me. You may think I could have come to these conclusions on my own, but really, it doesn’t matter how to get to the finish line as long as we actually get there. Right? Yes, I would go back to Shawna because she gave me that release and peace I was seeking. I absolutely loved the experience. I loved knowing that he is waiting for me to be ready. He can wait a little bit longer. I’m busy enjoying…

Talk to Shawna:
Phone: 1-800-KNOWING
Or check out her website: http://www.divineknowing.com/

1 Comment / Tags: bridesmaid / Posted in Wedding Dresses

Maternity Wedding Dress Options

November 7, 2012 by unzueta

Times have changed. People are getting married later in life. Several states are now allowing same sex marriages. What was frowned upon just a few years ago is now becoming more common. This includes getting married while being pregnant.

Growing Belly
Being pregnant has its own challenges. Pregnancy is an important time in a woman’s life. No doubt. That is one reason why it is twice as important when you are getting married while being pregnant.
A maternity wedding dress with a growing belly is different from others. Although there is extra space in the belly area, it does not mean that style has to suffer. There are plenty of dresses for a pregnant bride-to-be to choose from. Designers are catering to pregnant brides and adding maternity wedding dresses to their collection.

The Right Time
The wedding can take place when the tummy has not expanded, and the bride-to-be is showing only slightly. There is nothing wrong in having a wedding for a late term pregnancy either. It is what is right for you and your family. Another determining factor for timing is the . Although the couple may opt to have a quick civil service, it is very common to see women walking down the aisle in the gown of her choice, in the color of her choice.

No More Reason to Hide
Back in the old days, it was deplorable to conceive a child before marriage. Today, it’s becoming more acceptable and quite the norm. There are other reasons to ruin this special day than trying to hide a pregnancy. A white gown is not off the table whereas before it would have been a different situation.

Finding The Right Fit
A pregnant bride might think it will be difficult to find the perfect dress, but the task is easier than it’s made out to be. An appropriate gown can be found to fit the special bulge growing. There will be plenty of options available. Start by looking through bridal magazines. See what styles are flattering. Go online and look over the dresses. Do this all before making an appointment to the bridal dress store and especially before having a gown made.

The most essential thing here is for the dress to fit well. The tummy will grow as the days and months go by. No one can predict how big the tummy will be, but a good seamstress will plan for a bigger mid area. It is easier to hem than to add to a dress. The bride-to-be needs to be in constant and open communication with the gown designer as the adjustments are made.

The Right Choice
Other things to consider: comfort. The wedding day is long and has its challenges. Consider wearing comfortable shoes and proper support.
One can also opt for a more , maternity wedding dress that is stylish and pretty but less traditional. This, of course, depends on her personality and wedding theme. An airy and more simple wedding dress would go well with a beach wedding theme. There are more options in choosing a beautiful dress to fit the occasion to make a pregnant bride radiate.

No Comments / Tags: Wedding Dress / Posted in Wedding Dresses

Great Wedding Gift Ideas at Wholesale

November 1, 2012 by unzueta

Wedding gift registries are extending to the size of a short novel these days. The most popular wedding gifts are undoubtedly for the kitchen. Dressing a fully functional and modern kitchen can get very expensive. Asking for friends and family to help furnish this essential part of the house almost seems to be a rite of passage for engaged couples. If spending big bucks on a wedding gift does not appeal to you, consider buying a wholesale alternative. Flatware, small appliances, kitchen gadgets are usually some of the most popular wedding gifts requested, and often times, they can be found at the best wholesale outlet stores.

Flatware
Most bride and groom have a mixture of hodge-podge silverware, cheaply made by forks and knives from their college days. You might even find an occasional “souvenir” from a college dining hall. Wholesale outlet store offer dramatic discounts on flatware to suit any budget. It is common practice by retail stores to pull older styles off the shelves for new but not necessarily improved models. Choose a common brand name like Hampton Forge.

Knives
A good set of knives are a must! Just ask any Iron Chef. Ha! However, retail prices on knife sets can go for a pretty penny. As a bonus, most wholesale knife sets include other kitchen gadgets. You might be able to find wholesale sets that include serving spoons, peelers, spatulas, and measuring cups. Also look at overstock specialty knives like paring knives and cheese knives which are nice additions to any kitchen.

TV Gadgets
Have you been up at midnight, watching the “for only $19.95” infomercials? Like any good retailer, TV gadgets have overstock and fast liquidation needs. You can easily snatch up As-Seen-On-TV gadgets for cheap. Know that simply because they are sold on TV does not mean they are made of inferior quality. This also accommodates those guests who are looking for unique wedding gift ideas that are most likely not on the master registry.

Small Appliances
The greatest savings offered in wholesale stores are small kitchen appliances. There is usually a wide selection of small appliances thanks to customer returns and factory refurbished units. Also, manufacturers like to produce the same product or similar products in different colors and configurations. This supplies wholesale outlet stores with a good source of shelf-pulls that are in perfectly functional condition. Blenders, coffee-makers, toaster ovens all by top brand names like Cuisnart. What a great opportunity! The married couple will never know that it was purchased at wholesale.

Probably the most appealing part of a wholesale kitchen wedding gift is its shelf life. Even if a coffee maker sits in the storage room for over a year, it is still fully functional. Also, know that a customer return does not make it defective. On the contrary, most returns are because it was an unneeded gift or it did not match the existing items. These types of returns will still be in their original packaging. Buying a wedding gift at a wholesale outlet store never sounded better.

1 Comment / Tags: Gifts / Posted in Gift Ideas

Tips on Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer

October 16, 2012 by unzueta

We all know that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. There is an enormous emotional significance. It represents months and months of planning and preparing. Not to mention the major financial cost. Friends, family, loved ones will all be there to take part in your special day. You will most likely be nervous, excited, and maybe even forgetful. You often hear that brides have a vague memory of the wedding in the flurry of activities and well-wishes from guests. The marrying couple often counts on their wedding photographer to snap the day’s most important moments. It doesn’t matter if you are hiring a New York photographer or someone in Georgia, it is crucial to make the right choice. Here are some good tips to ensure you choose a wedding photographer who will make your special day extra special.

Got Experience?
One of the most important elements in choosing a wedding photographer is ensuring that he or she has extensive experience. A good photographer will have a good portfolio that you can and should review. When looking through the portfolio, make sure all the standard compositions are present. By that, look for the bride prior to the wedding, ceremony photos, and family member photos, and any creative photos. Look for any unique lighting and settings, anything that makes them stand out as a photographer. Does the wedding photographer capture the brides’ and grooms’ personalities? You want your pictures to stand out. He or she should understand your needs. You don’t want to have the same pictures as everyone else. Take this into serious consideration especially if the wedding photographer came to you as a referral.

Do You Have the Right Chemistry?
The view you have for your wedding should be similar to that of your photographer. There will be plenty to do on your special day. You should be able to trust your wedding photographer to do his/her job. Discuss ahead of time the shots you have in mind. They should be open to your interpretations of the photos you want. You will need to tell them ahead of time that your Uncle Edward is one of the most important people in your life and to snap several pictures of him. Simply put, you will need to trust your wedding photographer. In addition, you will need to be able to believe in his or her artistic view and follow their suggestions.

What’s The Price?
You get what you pay for, right? It’s no different with a wedding photographer. You need to stay within your budget and still feel comfortable that the wedding photographer will get all the treasures photos you want from the wedding. Most photographers have a variety of packages and prices. If none of these fit your wedding budget, talk openly with the wedding photographer and tell him what you are open to paying. You might be surprised at the response.

Get Their Input
A good wedding photographer has been around the block a few times. They might give you insight on how to do your rehearsal photos, engagement photos, hair, even makeup. Remember that you are hiring an expert in weddings who will give you good advice. You are paying for their guidance to make you shine.

Your goal is find a wedding photographer that will make your day last a lifetime. An experienced photographer whom you connect with is worth the price. You will have a wedding professional on your side who will let you enjoy your special day forever.

1 Comment / Tags: wedding photographer / Posted in Pictures

The Proper Attire for Wedding Guests

October 5, 2012 by unzueta

When we’re invited to a wedding, we try to look our best. Most of us will buy a new dress, get our hair done, nails painted, etc. After all, these pictures will live on forever. Wedding guests don’t have a hard time choosing the right attire for a wedding either, but with more and more unconventional weddings taking place, we must look for clues on the invitation.

When you receive the wedding invitation, look at the design. If it is embossed and engraved, you are more than likely going to a formal wedding event. You will be expected to wear an elegant dress or your best suit. However, if the invitation reads with informal language and is presented casually, it means the wedding is a more casual affair. You might be attending something very intimate where only the closest friends and family of the bride and groom were invited.

Another clue to help you decide on your wedding attire is the venue of the wedding. Is it a church wedding with a reception at a classy restaurant? This always calls for more formal wedding attire. If you are attending a destination wedding or a beach wedding, you can wear something more casual like a nice summer dress or a pair of khaki pants.

Next, look at the time of day or evening that the wedding is taking place. There is a huge difference if the wedding is held at night or during the day.

For daytime weddings, formal wedding attire depends on the formality of the wedding. Wedding guests might be able to get away with light colors or a stylish pastel dress. You can also wear a skirt and a blouse that accentuates your best features. Always, always go for light-colored clothes for daytime weddings. Although black is slimming, try to stay away from black. If it is a daylong event, you can plan your outfit out in layers. Remember that a photographer might be lurking by, ready to capture candid photos of wedding guests.

Evening weddings tend to more dressy. Formal wedding attire is almost always expected for evening weddings. If you are attending an event that is black-tie optional, wedding guests are expected to wear a sleek dark suit or a cocktail dress.

If the event is strictly black tie, the appropriate wedding attire is a formal ball gown. This is your golden opportunity to show off a floor-length evening dress that makes you look radiant. Is there a fancy evening wrap, shawl, or formal jewelry you only wear on special occasions? You can also get away with wearing your makeup a little more on the heavy, dramatic side. Although this is a formal event, make sure that your wedding attire is something that fits you well and is comfortable. As in all weddings, there will undoubtedly be a lot of dancing.

What NOT to Wear
The good news is that there are limitless dresses and suits to choose from. However, regardless of how pretty a dress is, or how slick a suit is, you should NOT buy it if:
• White. It should only be worn by the bride, not the guests. Daytime wedding or not, do not wear white.
• Denim. Regardless of the location, this is a huge no-no. Unless specifically stated on the invitation that you are allowed to wear denim, don’t wear it.
• Modest or subdued. The star of the wedding is the bride. It shows little respect if wedding guests show up in wedding attire that is flashier than the bride’s wedding gown. Although it is acceptable in some cases, cover up your shoulders with a wrap or a jacket if your dress is sleeveless or strapless.

Your goal should be to look your best in the proper wedding attire at a wedding.

No Comments / Tags: Wedding Guests / Posted in Wedding Guests

Why Hire A Wedding Planner?

August 11, 2012 by unzueta

With so many chores to do when planning a wedding, it is tempting to hire a professional wedding planner. After all, this is your wedding, and you want it to be the most amazing day of your life. This isn’t an easy experience. Why not solicit the help of someone who does this for a living to alleviate the pressure? Hiring a professional wedding planner will come with a price. Before you run to the nearest professional wedding planner, take a good look at the collection of duties needed in order to pull off a successful, beautiful wedding.

Church weddings entail several elements. You will be required to provide baptism certificates, choose between confetti and biodegradable rice. Then you must think about sitting your guests- ushers, bridesmaids, best men, music, hairstyles, flower girls, wardrobe, and rings. Don’t forget the wedding vows, and all the rehearsals. If you are having a non-traditional wedding setting, there are other factors to consider.

For the reception, you must find the right venue and the right caterer. You must also plan the menu, the bar, the service, flowers, favors, and the wedding reception activities. All the while, you hope that everything comes out smoothly. Don’t forget the wedding cake and arranging delivery.

There are so many wedding photographers and videographers to choose from. Also think of transportation for the marrying couple and those visiting. You will also need to choose wedding invitations and figure out how to properly word them. Who are you going to invite? Where are the people from out of town going to stay?

Take a deep breath. Are you getting stressed out yet? And this is only the tip of the iceberg. It is no wonder why people choose destination weddings as they are easier to plan and much, much cheaper. They are so appealing for many couples, desiring a less stressful and less traditional location.

The only thing that might be holding you back in hiring a wedding planner is your wedding budget. Take a good look at your budget and see if there is any room for adjustments. Consider that a professional wedding planner knows where to get the best deals. Look on wedding boards and ask newlywed brides what type of savings they were able to get via their wedding planner. Without a person like this, things can get overwhelming very fast. You don’t want to create a nightmare situation on your special day. A wedding planner will hold your hand through thick and thin during these stressful times. If you opt to do it yourself, you can delegate responsibilities to your friends. This is supposed to be the most memorable day of your life. Relax and enjoy the best day of your life!