tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21357830760692833992023-11-16T05:21:09.229-08:00Weddings DivaFind insider tips, tricks, and secrets to planning a wedding from a former wedding plannerKristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-27743542051195678272011-02-21T15:54:00.000-08:002011-02-21T15:55:24.219-08:00Free Information on Easy Bridal Shower GamesInject some fun and a change of pace into the bridal shower you are planning with some easy bridal shower games. Coming up with the games may be your challenge. Fortunately, you can turn to a variety of free resources to draw inspiration on some easy bridal shower games that you can put on the agenda for the party. Turn to one or more resources to put together a few games you can use to break up the time of the bridal shower and allow your guests to have enjoy themselves and maybe win some prizes too.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">People You Know</span><br /><br />No matter how young or old you are, you know people who have hosted or attended a bridal shower. Talk with your friends, family members and co-workers about the games they have played at bridal shower games. Shoot out an email, pick up the phone or tell them in person that you are looking for games to play at a bridal shower. You should have a pen and paper handy so you can write down the details of each game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Draw from Experience</span><br /><br />You too have attended bridal showers and other types of parties where you have played games. Think back to the bridal showers you have attended and remember the games that you played. Do not just limit yourself to bridal showers either. Think of baby showers, birthday parties or other types of party games too. You can always put a wedding slant on a popular party game. For example, if you decide to play charades, then all of the charades can revolve around weddings.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Books</span><br /><br />Party planning books are in abundance at book stores and even your local library. Spend some time at both locations looking through these books. In addition to books, both of these venues offer magazines that also touch on party, event and wedding planning. Even when the games are intended for bachelorette parties or another girls night in party, you can use the game as is or give it a bridal theme.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Websites</span><br /><br />The Internet is also a primary source for easy bridal shower games. Numerous wedding planning and party planning website devote sections and pages to games. Some sites even provide you with template downloads or instructions you can print in order to put your bridal shower games together. Martha Stewart Weddings, Party 411 and The Knot are but three of the websites that provide you with free and easy bridal shower game ideas.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-18243217988668427482010-09-01T06:27:00.000-07:002010-09-01T07:04:10.054-07:00Activities in Boston for Your Wedding Guests<a href="http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/boston.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 420px; height: 310px;" src="http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/boston.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />It is common for guests to travel some distance by land or air to attend a wedding. If your wedding is taking place in the Boston area, there are many attractions that your guests may wish to visit before or after your ceremony. From historical landmarks to popular museums, Boston has something for all ages. <br /><br /><strong>For Children</strong><br />For your guests with children, there are a variety of museums that will entertain and amuse. The Boston Children’s Museum is perfect for children aged 0-10 and their families. It is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (9PM on Fridays). The Museum of Science is another great choice, with IMAX, a planetarium, 3-D Digital Cinema, and various exhibits. It is open daily from 9 AM-7 PM, with films and shows at various times. The New England Aquarium is also a tremendous attraction with more than 7,000 fish and aquatic mammals. It is open daily from 9 AM-5 PM (6 PM on weekends). <br /><br /><strong>History</strong><br /><br />Boston is an epicenter for historical monuments, landmarks, and other attractions. Boston Common is the oldest park in the nation. Famous people throughout history have given speeches and concerts here. It has been declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark and features an ice-skating pond and Brewer Fountain, a 22-foot tall bronze fountain. The oldest building in downtown Boston, the Paul Revere House, served as the home of the legendary silversmith. The historical site is open from April 15 – October 31, 9:30 AM- 5:15 PM. The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship that is still floating in the world. Guided tours of the famous vessel begin every half hour from 10 AM to 5:30 PM daily. <br /><br /><strong>Arts, Parades, Feasts & Festivals</strong><br /><br />Although all events in this category are not available every day throughout the year, it is quite likely that one or more events are happening on the week of your wedding. The Mayor’s Office of Arts, Tourism, & special Events presents many events, as does the Strand Theatre. For more information and a schedule of events during your wedding, visit the City of Boston website. <br /><br /><strong>Nature</strong><br /><br />On a particularly temperate wedding weekend, the guest that is also a nature lover will appreciate the Arnold Arboretum on the campus of Harvard University. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset and features family activities, events, plant highlights, and 185 species of birds. An adventurous guest will appreciate the world famous Boston Duck Tours, which takes people on a journey over land and sea on a Duck Tours vehicle. <br /><br /><strong>City</strong><br />For magnificent views of downtown Boston, your guests can visit the Prudential Tower, which boasts a sky high view on the 50th floor. The tower is part of the Prudential Center which features 28 acres of hotels, restaurants, shops, plazas, and covered walkways. Downtown Crossing is a neighborhood full of restaurants, shopping, night-life, and culture in the heart of downtown Boston. The neighborhood also hosts a variety of special events for residents and visitors alike.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-23280122847419370812010-07-27T12:47:00.000-07:002010-07-27T12:53:12.275-07:00Get Married Hits the NewsstandThe fall issue of Get Married magazine hits the newsstand TODAY! <br /><br />Join in the fun, and whether you're a bride or a wedding vendor, you have a chance to win some prizes!<br /><br />SHOP: Pick up your fall issue of Get Married (available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Target, CVS, Kroger, A&P, Waldenbooks, Book World, Hasting, Books-A-Million and more). You can pick up an issue for FREE if you register online at www.getmarried.com.<br /><br />SNAP: Take the most creative, fun or outlandish shot of the Get Married magazine cover you can dream up!<br /><br />SHARE: Tweet your favorite picture to @GetMarried (you MUST include #getmarriedcontest AND @GetMarried in your tweet), or post your pic on The Get Married Facebook wall (become a fan of Get Married @ http://www.facebook.com/GetMarriedMedia)<br /><br />WIN: Vendors can win a FREE listing in Get Married magazine; Brides can win a one-year subscription to Get Married magazine.<br /><br />GET INSPIRED + GET PLANNING: The fall issue features: <br /><br /> * Bridal trends and this season’s hottest colors to fit every bridal style<br /><br /> * Real wedding stories<br /><br /> * Sultry Beach Getaways: (with a chance to win a honeymoon!)<br /><br /> * Celebrity spotlight: Television personality, Bethenny Frankel and former Miss America Katie Stam<br /><br />Pick up your fall issue of Get Married and Get Creative because the contest ends on Monday, August 30th.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-82729679691428042122010-06-30T07:41:00.000-07:002010-06-30T07:49:41.778-07:00Get Married: Catch the End of Season 3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0Z_q85NT9WU5DHEftYeMwnIHR6cSwlAaBJpSqzXcn35TNSYwADlkF2J_vBZ67scQ8UyH-l4AMcTJJMiVxCfcr0NFrAh8b-iF7-dSg_sdCfp3grPWm8Drp_KScjY3HoYbq1dNM-2PrnS7/s1600/getmarriedlogo.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 109px; height: 50px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0Z_q85NT9WU5DHEftYeMwnIHR6cSwlAaBJpSqzXcn35TNSYwADlkF2J_vBZ67scQ8UyH-l4AMcTJJMiVxCfcr0NFrAh8b-iF7-dSg_sdCfp3grPWm8Drp_KScjY3HoYbq1dNM-2PrnS7/s200/getmarriedlogo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488578705107450690" /></a><br />Get Married Season 3 hits the TV with seven new episodes starting on Saturday, July 3rd at 9:30am EST. You can watch these new episodes by tuning into WE TV. The final of the seven episodes airs on Saturday, August 14th. Get Married features real brides facing fun challenges with the show founder and host Stacie Francombe. Stacie guides the brides on the show through wedding planning experiences as they interact with wedding professionals and experts. <br /><br />Tune in to discover some of the hottest wedding trends and surprising happenings, including a customized father-daughter dance song by Edwin McCain.<br /><br />It's only three days away! Check out the promo for <a href="http://2gm.us/3t">Get Married’s newest episodes</a>.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-82188043788307917122010-06-24T05:44:00.000-07:002010-06-24T05:44:18.016-07:00Freelance writer at ZSB (Las Vegas, NV)<a href="http://www.freelancejobopenings.com/job/freelance-writer-las-vegas-nv-zsb-ebc54ffc2f/?d=1&amp;source=share">Freelance writer at ZSB (Las Vegas, NV)</a><br />This company hires writers and then does not pay them for completed work. DO NOT do business with them and expect to get paid! They have owed me $400 for months and keep promising to pay me, but never do.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-935604527334831352010-05-30T07:30:00.000-07:002010-05-30T07:30:00.555-07:00Luxury Wedding EtiquetteIt is important for all weddings to follow certain rules of etiquette and protocol. This is no different for a luxurious, formal event. Most rules of etiquette are similar regardless of the extravagance of the affair. However, the overall luxury of the occasion heightens the formality of etiquette and protocol. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Payment Due</span><br />Traditionally the responsibility for paying for a wedding belongs to the bride’s parents. This includes everything from the bridal wear to the wedding cake. The groom and/or his family are responsible for his clothing, the marriage license and clergy fee, as well as the wedding ring and groomsmen’s gifts. He is also financially responsible for the rehearsal dinner. A formal wedding usually follows the traditional protocol for finances, but often the bride and groom work together to present the elaborate event.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gift Registry</span><br />Registries are created for the convenience of the guests; however it is most acceptable to advertise your registry by word of mouth instead of including cards in invitations. Regardless of the extravagance of the actual wedding, gifts from all price points should be included on the registry. If a guest is unable to attend the wedding, a gift should be sent to the couple before the wedding or within three months of the wedding. Likewise, a thank-you note should be sent within three months. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Invitations</span><br />Invitations for a luxurious wedding should also be luxurious. The most formal invitations are usually printed on white, ivory, or ecru paper with black script. A gold or silver border or other simple accents denote formality. They include an outer and an inner envelope, often with a sheet of tissue paper to protect the ink. On a formal invitation, names are written out fully, with no nicknames or shortened names. All of the words in the address, date, time, and year are spelled out fully (i.e. “Avenue” instead of “Ave.” and “Two Thousand Eleven” for “2011”). <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Attire</span><br />For a luxurious wedding, the bride, groom, and wedding party should wear the most formal clothing. Dresses should reach the floor and tuxedos should include bow ties and vests. For guests attending such a wedding, ladies should wear a formal dress (usually floor length) with formal jewelry and a fancy purse. If it is a religious wedding, shoulders should be covered with a wrap. Avoid wearing white and anything that is too revealing. Gentlemen should wear a well-fitted tuxedo with a bow tie to a formal wedding. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reception</span><br />Typically, a luxurious wedding occurs in the evening and denotes a formal sit-down dinner. The reception will usually begin with a cocktail hour that the guests enjoy while the bride and groom are taking photographs. There is usually a receiving line at most formal receptions. The meal should consist of at least three courses, with full silver service and wait staff. At the most formal occasion, full bar service is provided along with dancing and live orchestral music.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-54477245193561502262010-05-29T07:23:00.000-07:002010-05-29T07:29:14.665-07:00Catholic Wedding Sand CeremonyThe Sand Ceremony is often compared to the Unity Candle Ceremony. Both are two physical displays of the unifying power of marriage. The unity candle ceremony is quite new to wedding traditions (it originated in Protestant churches about 40 years ago); later in the century, couples searched for ways to complete a unifying act without the use of candles. A sand ceremony can easily replace a unity candle ceremony in a Catholic wedding. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />The Facts</span><br />In a Sand Ceremony, the bride and the groom each hold a small glass vase full of sand. At a specified time, each takes a turn pouring some of their sand into a larger glass vase. Then they pour in the remaining sand at the same time. The ceremony symbolizes the Biblical concept of two individuals becoming one. A third small vase is often used by the officiant who pours in sand representing God and His omnipresence in the life of the new couple. A sand ceremony can be used in any kind of ceremony, religious or not, but a Catholic sand ceremony will include text spoken by the priest during the pouring. Usually the two (or three) small vases contain different colors of sand, so the resulting larger vase is a beautiful blend of colors. The large vase is kept as a treasured memento of the union. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">History</span><br />Although it is somewhat difficult to determine from where the sand ceremony originates, it is often thought to have begun in Hawaii, where the bride and groom scoop sand from the beach at their feet into their vases for the ceremony. Some argue that this type of ceremony originated with Native Americans thousands of years ago. Regardless, the sand ceremony is gaining in popularity and received a well-televised boost when it was featured on a wedding spin-off of The Bachelorette in 2003. The sand ceremony holds little or no history in the Catholic Church. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Types</span><br />The most commonly known sand ceremony involves sand in two or three smaller vases being poured simultaneously into one larger vase to signify two becoming one. Another option is when couples only use the two small vases and together pour the sand into the wind. In this case the ceremony must be outdoors and the couple should take care to throw it with the wind and not against it. If children are involved in the ceremony, they can pour in a vase of sand also. All of these variations would be religiously acceptable in a Catholic wedding.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Significance</span><br />The overall significance of the sand ceremony is the visual imagery of the union of marriage. Often the groom pours part of his sand first, symbolizing the foundation of the marriage. The bride then adds her sand to symbolize her support. When they both pour the remainder of their sand together, the colors mix in harmony and equality. Some couples choose to leave a small amount of sand in their individual vases to signify their individuality. The Catholic wedding ceremony stresses the unity and commitment of marriage; a sand ceremony certainly supports this belief and further symbolizes that the two that have become one can never again be separated. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Considerations</span><br />The Sand Ceremony is not a Catholic tradition and therefore is not present in the Catholic Rite of Marriage. Your officiant may decline to include it for this reason. Regulations on the inclusion of procedures not present in the Rite of Marriage differ from parish to parish. Some say that this celebration of unity is somewhat repetitious as the Catholic ceremony already celebrates unity through liturgy, prayer, and the administration of a sacrament.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-42398051714831820482010-05-12T12:10:00.000-07:002010-05-12T12:12:34.016-07:00Wedding Trends: Alternatives to Wedding Cakes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1180/1022829441_7d83cda174.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 357px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1180/1022829441_7d83cda174.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /> <br />You may have noticed that wedding cakes tend to take center stage as it is a symbol that is prominently displayed at wedding receptions. What you may not have noticed is that many wedding guests do not like wedding cake and so the slices of sugary decadence often end up in the trash. If you’re looking for a couple of ideas to replace or in addition to the wedding cake, here are few to get you started.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />The Cupcake Makes a Comeback (with a Twist)</span><br /><br />In Miami, one thing I’ve noticed is that couture cupcake bakeries are popping up in all of the different areas of town. These are not your standard Betty Crocker cupcakes either because they come in flavors and designs that almost look and seem too gorgeous to eat (but are as delicious as they look). Cupcakes can also be displayed to simulate cake layers, placed at each place setting or designed into a cupcake buffet table, where guests can choose the flavor they wish. You can just as easily create your own cupcakes (for you DIYers out there) and put them on display. It may be nostalgia of days gone by or something different, but those cupcakes will disappear faster than any slice of wedding cake ever will.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Dessert Buffets</span><br /><br />Another option is a wedding buffet or dessert table. Similar to a buffet restaurant, several different dessert options are put on display. Guests can either serve themselves or you can have the wait staff visit guest tables and ask which dessert they prefer. Pies, tarts, cakes, ice cream, cookies and more are but some of the options you may display. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cookie or Candy Table</span><br /><br />You can also pile a table high with platters of cookies or a myriad of dishes filled with different candies. Guests can fill up on the sweet treats after the meal and you can even provide favor boxes or bags for guests to carry out the treats for later.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-53048725847512682722010-05-11T13:43:00.000-07:002010-05-11T13:45:43.369-07:00The Role of a BridesmaidThe bridesmaids you choose for your wedding ate typically close family members and friends. The primary role of the bridesmaids is to support the bride in her wedding planning efforts. Tasks may include helping to plan the wedding shower, maintaining a gift list for the bride to write shower thank you notes, assembling wedding invitations, or other tasks the bride requests. In essence, being a bridesmaid is the same as being a good friend!Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-74677774527772377412010-04-29T14:24:00.000-07:002010-04-29T14:24:00.618-07:00How to Start a Wedding HallA wedding reception hall can be a fun and lucrative business venture when you carry out the proper amount of planning to start and operate it. Putting some thought into how you’ll run the venue and rent out its space can be the primary determinant in whether or not your reception hall is booked regularly or empty weekend after weekend.<br /><br />Supplies Needed:<br />Facility with commercial kitchen<br />Tables and Chairs<br />Curtains and wall décor<br />Brochures<br /><br />Step One:<br />Create an atmosphere that is conducive to the elegant and celebratory nature of weddings. Because your facility will be focused on wedding receptions, you should decorate the center in neutral colors with graceful artwork and finishing touches. This center should be functional, but it should also attract the eye of the bride looking for a beautiful venue.<br /><br />Step Two:<br />Build relationships with vendors. Find vendors you can outsource to for the details you don’t want to handle yourself. Some vendors include linen companies, party rental companies for tables and chairs, caterers, wait staff, flowers, bridal shops, party stores, etc. In order to build these relationships, make personal visits to the companies to leave information about your wedding reception business. Ask for any brochures or other information they can give you and pledge to pass it along to the brides and grooms with which you come in contact.<br /><br />Step Three:<br />Create your rental packages. Put together different reception packages your clients can choose from. You may wish to offer a low, mid and high-level price point package as well as a la carte items customers can choose to add to their packages. Creating packages helps you to showcase what you can offer customers, and it can also help you stay focused on your offering. In a wedding reception center business, you may offer a basic package with just the hall, tables, chairs, and the use of the kitchen. A more all-inclusive package option might be one that includes catering services, linen rentals, an event coordinator, and other party details.<br /><br />Step Four:<br />Apply for licensing and operating permits. Contact your city hall to inquire of the necessary permits. These will be unique from state to state and will cover requirements for the facility, food, liquor, and operations. This process may require inspections. <br /><br />Step Five:<br />Hire staff. Generally, a wedding reception hall requires a manager, an event planner and one or two sales people. Higher volume reception halls may require more staff than ones with smaller volumes. Decide on what staff members you need to help you run the center effectively and hire them.<br /><br />Step Six:<br />Have an open house. Since you have the party space and some of the other details for throwing a party, a great way to showcase your reception hall is to throw an open house party. Invite potential customers and potential referral sources to an open house party where they can preview the wedding reception hall and enjoy some refreshments, dancing and more. Advertise your open house through local newspapers, online city events calendars, and through the vendors with whom you have already spoken. Make sure your reception center is well-furnished and looks impeccable for the big day.<br /><br />Step Seven:<br />Advertise. Contact bridal magazines and websites to ask about advertising space. Research local bridal shows and plan to host a booths at the events. Print full-color brochures with pictures of your reception hall to give to vendors, prospective clients, churches, bridal shops, and rental centers. Contact your local newspaper and ask for an interview about your newly opening hall. <br /><br />Tips:<br />During the wedding off season (January, February, and March are the least popular wedding months), you may consider reaching out to other rental clients in order to fill your calendar. Corporate events, reunions, or other large gatherings will bring in cash while you build excitement for the coming wedding season.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-2552188318694291522010-04-28T07:37:00.000-07:002010-04-28T07:40:02.109-07:00Brazil Marriage License Requirements: Getting Hitched Out of Country<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.younewstv.com/images/320*240/2004_0814Image0179.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://media.younewstv.com/images/320*240/2004_0814Image0179.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Weddings in Brazil reflect a mix of ancient traditions and current legal requirements. Brazil’s national history is a blend of mingling nations, including the influences of the indigenous peoples, the different African cultures, and the European colonists. As a result, Brazilian weddings are rich in customs and rituals. At the same time, the weddings must follow certain rules in order to be considered legal and official. These rules are not difficult, however, and preparing all of the right documents within the required time frame can ensure a pleasant wedding in Brazil.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Documents</span><br /><br />Non-residents of Brazil who plan to get married in Brazil need to be sure to bring with them some important documents: birth certificate (original with the raised seal, or a notarized copy), proof of being single (evidence of legal search among marriage records or proof of divorce finalization), passport and visa and copies of each, records search to find out if bride or groom has been convicted of crimes, and application to marry. All of these documents must be filed before the marriage license approval process can begin.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Time</span><br /><br />Acquiring a marriage license in Brazil does require a certain time commitment. Unlike in some countries, where a marriage license only has to be approved a couple of days before the ceremony, marriage licenses in Brazil can take up to thirty days for full approval. Once the license is approved, however, couples in Brazil have as long as three months to be officially married in a wedding ceremony. (If the couple is not married within those three months, they will need to apply for a new license.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Registration</span><br /><br />Registering a marriage in Brazil can also take some time, but once the license has been approved the registration process can be the most enjoyable. In Brazil, couples must be married within the state of their residency (which would be filed on the application documents). An official at the Civil Registry Office performs the ceremony and completes all of the required paperwork. Bear in mind that religious ceremonies in Brazil are optional and have no legal authority. (Couples may have a religious ceremony in addition to the civil ceremony, but they cannot substitute a religious ceremony for a civil ceremony.) Couples getting married in Brazil should be sure to find out if the Civil Registry Office limits marriages to certain days; in Minas Gerias, for instance, civil ceremonies are typically performed on Fridays but not on any other day.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-68464336308783376892010-04-15T06:57:00.000-07:002010-04-15T06:57:00.626-07:00DIY Wedding Invitations with Computer SoftwareDesigning your own wedding invitations can be a great option for personalizing a wedding. There is a range of excellent invitation software currently available that makes creating wedding invitations well within the reach of virtually every budget and design preference. For those who prefer to make invitations with a personal touch–or to save money by avoiding the cost of pre-printed invitations–DIY wedding invitation software is an excellent way to go. With a little time and a few supplies, you will be on your way to creating the perfect invitations for the wedding of your dreams.<br /><br />Step 1<br /><br />Select the brand of software that you would like to use for the wedding invitations. Several invitation software companies offer packages that include wedding invitation software. The packages offer templates that are appropriate for wedding (and even wedding shower) invitations. Additionally, there are wedding invitation templates available through free online software, so if you are looking to save money, the free templates can be a great option.<br /><br />Step 2<br /><br />Choose a template for the wedding invitation, or design your own from scratch. Any software that you select will provide a range of templates, from romantic and traditional to playful and unconventional. The template for the wedding invitation should suit the couple or the overall theme of the wedding.<br /><br />Step 3<br /><br />Purchase the paper that you plan to use for the invitations. Wedding invitation paper can range from basic card paper to the costlier vellum paper. The style of the invitation will help you choose the most appropriate paper. Bear in mind that a more traditional invitation will require a finer paper, such as vellum, while a more contemporary invitation might only need a simple card paper.<br /><br />Step 4<br /><br />Purchase any accessories that will go with the invitations. Standard invitation accessories include ribbon, raffia, and transparent overlay paper. Some wedding invitations have no accessories, of course. The accessories will depend largely on the template that is used and on the style of the invitation.<br /><br />Step 5<br /><br />Design the invitations, and print them out. A laser printer is usually the best option because there is less danger of the ink smudging, but a standard printer will do as long as you give the invitations time to dry. Print off a few trial-run invitations before printing the full number. The samples will give you the opportunity to make sure the invitations look the way you want and have no errors in them.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tips</span><br /><br />Wedding invitations are typically white or ivory, but you are not limited to these shades. The invitation should reflect the couple and the event, so feel free to create an invitation in any color that is most appropriate. Just bear in mind that darker colors do not lend themselves to clear print, so consider a lighter overlay to ensure that guests can read the invitation details clearly.<br /><br />Don’t forget the envelopes. Envelopes are usually included with pre-printed invitation packages, but if you are printing your own, be sure to purchase the envelopes and to calculate them into the overall cost.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-82465908216712425072010-04-14T07:45:00.000-07:002010-04-14T07:45:00.349-07:00Free Wedding Song DownloadSinger, Edwin McCain is sharing his latest song exclusively with Get Married! Edwin is no stranger to weddings. Dubbed the modern day "wedding singer" Edwin is best known for crowd favorites "I'll Be" (voted the best wedding song ever written) and "I Could Not Ask For More."<br /><br /> <br /><br />Don't miss your opportunity for a TWO WEEK FREE DOWNLOAD of McCain's latest masterpiece, "Walk With You," a moving melody written for fathers and daughters. From now until April 21, you can find McCain's free download exclusively on GetMarried.com. http://www.getmarried.com/edwin-mccain-download/Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-58856616640100848272010-04-13T06:49:00.000-07:002010-05-02T15:04:31.093-07:00Wedding Venues or Honeymoon Accommodations: The Best Hotel Chains<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRye01q7Ru6h3yxWBK-P0H1molQs8kcoGJd78-cgqKLAWQtQoLQ7Y7iu-72BpQS7IqNoMr5UOVSgntbnFvS-8UxRVCRFzh8e-oiCFnKw4JCxuN_yGVz79j8GBZpKoOvRWrGK1YWwuaev9W/s1600/hotel.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRye01q7Ru6h3yxWBK-P0H1molQs8kcoGJd78-cgqKLAWQtQoLQ7Y7iu-72BpQS7IqNoMr5UOVSgntbnFvS-8UxRVCRFzh8e-oiCFnKw4JCxuN_yGVz79j8GBZpKoOvRWrGK1YWwuaev9W/s200/hotel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457207543575422018" /></a><br />For planning a wedding ceremony or reception or choosing a honeymoon destination, a chain hotel can be an excellent option. Granted, a chain might not offer quite the same local touch of a small boutique hotel, but the chains do represent brand consistency that can be appealing in unfamiliar locations. And hotel chains understand this, so they strive to provide guests exactly what they expect to find in the recognized hotel name. With the gradual expansion of chain hotels around the world, you are sure to find a name that you trust. So, whether you plan to visit Dallas or Dublin, Boston or Budapest, check out the hotel chains that are available for you there.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts</span><br /><br />The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts owns more than fifty hotel properties that span twenty-two different countries, and the chain is constantly expanding in the U.S. and around the world. Additionally, the various Four Seasons hotels have been the recipient of numerous hotel awards, and the Las Vegas location was most recently a recipient of TripAdvisor’s 2010 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Beyond this, the Four Seasons location in San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Palm Beach, Kailua-Kona (Big Island, Hawaii), Maui, Chicago, Boston, New York, and Jackson Hole (Wyoming), among others, have all received the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond ranking for 2010. The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts boasts more consistent AAA Five-Diamond rankings than any other hotel chain worldwide.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Marriott Family of Hotels</span><br /><br />Marriott has more or less cornered every part of the hotel and resort market with its extensive family of hotels. The company offers its flagship Marriott (or sometimes J.W. Marriott) hotels for travelers who need luxury, but it also owns such familiar hotel chains as the Fairfield Inn & Suites, the Residence Inn & Suites, the Courtyard Hotel. What is more, the various segments of the Marriott company have received numerous awards for overall quality and customer service. In March of 2010, Marriott was a recipient of TripAdvisor’s 2010 Reader’s Choice Awards, and in January of 2010, Marriott was recognized as one of only thirteen companies to receive an “All Star” rating from Fortune magazine. Marriott has also received honors as one of the “Greenest” companies in the U.S. and has been awarded Elite Marketing Awards from the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Hampton Inn & Suites</span><br /><br />Hampton Inn & Suites is officially a division of Hilton Hotels and features almost 1800 locations in all fifty states, as well as Puerto Rico, all of the Canadian provinces, and parts the U.K. The Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards named Hampton Inn & Suites “the best mid-priced hotel” for five years running (and most recently in January of 2010), and the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International awarded Hampton Inn with a Gold, Silver, and Bronze Adrian Awards in February of 2010. Within the Hampton chain, the top 5% of Hampton Inn & Suites locations have received the Lighthouse Award for quality and guest satisfaction, and numerous locations have received the Hilton family of hotels Connie Award, given to locations that represent “the best of the best” for Hilton.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-37828300458147580112010-04-08T06:46:00.000-07:002010-04-08T06:46:00.441-07:00Decorations Ideas for a South Indian Wedding<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSO88g7uWix8GAvMPJ-MQVnzw1kBR1qWEX7qQi_weiXxX_hsJa_B9e7T-65dFREqqDVIwy6BUzDgSEiofEWq508j1x00tA68ZmbeT8bEeUgZL4mcnETluOyT6yD4g6SmVaLefVX3FvaG3/s1600/Indian-Wedding.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSO88g7uWix8GAvMPJ-MQVnzw1kBR1qWEX7qQi_weiXxX_hsJa_B9e7T-65dFREqqDVIwy6BUzDgSEiofEWq508j1x00tA68ZmbeT8bEeUgZL4mcnETluOyT6yD4g6SmVaLefVX3FvaG3/s200/Indian-Wedding.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457206344706657474" /></a><br />If a bride or groom has South Indian roots, they may want this reflected in their wedding, whether it takes place in India or elsewhere. Traditional Indian decor is bold in color and design, with richness and elegance. If you’re throwing a South Indian wedding, you may be looking for ideas from which to draw inspiration.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Mandap</span><br /><br />Traditionally, Indian ceremonies take place at a mandap, which is an important symbolic element you'll want to incorporate into a traditional South Indian ritual. Find deep gold and red fabric colors for more of a traditional look or coordinate fabric colors to match your overall wedding theme. Real or artificial flowers can adorn the canopy. Marigolds, roses, and jasmine are commonly used for this purpose. The pillars can be wrapped with floral garlands or silk drapes in coordinating colors. Usually there is a brightly colored carpet at the floor of the mandap, and strings of lights, lanterns or candles can be used for illumination. The mandap can also include wall hangings and decorative artifacts. Don't forget the ornate chairs that often resemble thrones for you and your groom to sit on under the mandap.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kalash and Thali</span><br /><br />Kalash and Thali are symbols of shagun, or luck. Kalash is a pot usually made of brass, but may be found in silver as well. The pot contains a coconut surrounded by fresh mango leaves. Painting is done in beautiful ethnic designs on the exterior of the pot; stickers with Indian designs can be used for the same purpose. A Thali is a plate made of silver or brass. Banana leaves cover the plate, with a diya (clay lamp) in the center. The diya is then surrounded with colorful flowers. Both the Kalash and the Thali can make gorgeous ethnic centerpieces.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Car</span><br /><br />Like in America, the vehicle that will take the new couple away is often decorated for the Indian wedding. However, the decorations used for this purpose are much different. Typically flowers are using to adorn the car. Fresh, bright flowers are placed on the hood and artificial garlands drape over the car. Other accessories used to decorate the car can include: mirrors, bows, threads, artifacts, tissues and bandhani (dyed cotton or silk fabric).Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-58309389563624224182010-04-07T06:33:00.000-07:002010-04-07T06:33:00.515-07:00Chicago Wedding Cruise Ideas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxiVTZdskbTdMjYDn6mlJqatkS1D8f5kgv8ulS3PBQooVXnU3fjLHjz-uCES2BBE-9u6UTYHWRcqvLLcde_oBpzkmhPio5xYfNh0JMnywZSOg3rvwYLwOQpTVy1njdrsxXevQlNMb1IVU/s1600/purple_chicago_skylineresized2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxiVTZdskbTdMjYDn6mlJqatkS1D8f5kgv8ulS3PBQooVXnU3fjLHjz-uCES2BBE-9u6UTYHWRcqvLLcde_oBpzkmhPio5xYfNh0JMnywZSOg3rvwYLwOQpTVy1njdrsxXevQlNMb1IVU/s200/purple_chicago_skylineresized2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457203411383133506" /></a><br />Chicago, Illinois borders the southwestern edge of Lake Michigan and includes the Chicago River and Calumet River. Known for the Great Fire of 1871, the starting point of Historic Route 66 and for its gangster bad guys such as Al Capone, Chicago is a multicultural and diverse city with a rich history. A variety of dinner cruises are available to enjoy the sights of the city while dining on board a yacht or boat and make great options for rehearsal dinner parties, wedding receptions or simply a wedding activity for fun.<br /><br />Odyssey Chicago<br /><br />The Odyssey Chicago dinner cruise was rated "the best skyline in America" by Travel and Leisure magazine. Dinner cruise guests are invited on board, loading at the Navy Pier, and are served appetizers, entrees and desserts that are prepared fresh daily by the on-board chef. Diners can view the skyline of Chicago while dining at their tables, dancing to the live music aboard the ship or sitting and relaxing on the outside deck. The boat cruises along the Chicago lakefront and offers guests views of the Museum Campus and Evanston. Individual and group tickets are sold, so you can dine aboard to celebrate a special occasion or just because. The boat holds up to 600 passengers.<br /><br />Odyssey Chicago<br />Navy Pier<br />600 East Grand Avenue<br />Chicago, IL 60611<br />866-305-2469<br />odysseycruises.com<br /><br />Spirit of Chicago<br /><br />Spirit of Chicago offers guests a buffet dinner aboard one of their ships. Guests can enjoy the downtown Chicago skyline as the boat skirts the lakefront area. Cabaret-style seating promotes mixing and mingling with the other guests aboard the ship. Individual tickets and group tickets are available. Along with appetizers, a grand buffet dinner, and beverages, guests are entertained with some of the top DJs in the greater Chicago area.<br /><br />Spirit of Chicago<br />Navy Pier<br />Chicago, IL 60611<br />866-273-2469<br />spiritofchicago.com<br /><br />Mystic Blue Full Moon Dinner Cruise<br /><br />Private tables are assigned as guests board the Mystic Blue Full Moon Dinner Cruise. The cruise offers a full dinner buffet and live music entertainment as it sets sail. The cruise takes the guests along the lakefront for views of the Chicago city skyline and at time sets sail as far north as Evanston. The boat holds up to 500 passengers.<br /><br />Mystic Blue Full Moon Dinner Cruise<br />Navy Pier<br />600 East Grand Avenue<br />Chicago, IL 60611<br />312-321-7600<br />mysticbluecruises.com/ChicagoKristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-60142471905400614012010-04-06T18:29:00.000-07:002010-04-06T18:32:57.686-07:00Etiquette for a Rehearsal Dinner at a Destination Wedding<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGj_jF9RH5-K0Ir4Yc5Uma1lTJScq2GPbgC-fMjyTxFKLsfjcZixt3NH597L0Mhij_yJHh8N8RBro_243wckswek25fiisYtrTLqPi0Gdxy4wwJhgpbYOnbIjCX2OJ_5f9zHIBoDGOwfbq/s1600/cohen-rehearsal-dinner.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGj_jF9RH5-K0Ir4Yc5Uma1lTJScq2GPbgC-fMjyTxFKLsfjcZixt3NH597L0Mhij_yJHh8N8RBro_243wckswek25fiisYtrTLqPi0Gdxy4wwJhgpbYOnbIjCX2OJ_5f9zHIBoDGOwfbq/s200/cohen-rehearsal-dinner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457202469893264386" /></a><br />A rehearsal dinner is an intimate meal for the immediate family members of the bride and groom and for members of the wedding party. A destination wedding, however, can add a layer of etiquette complexity. Usually small and relaxing, you may have to settle for a bigger-than-normal dining experience—to make guests who fly in, possibly from very long distances, feel welcome. Applying etiquette rules to a rehearsal dinner for a destination wedding requires thoughtful consideration of everyone involved.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Facts</span><br /><br />Traditional wedding etiquette makes the groom’s family responsible for the rehearsal dinner. Additionally, traditional wedding etiquette includes only the immediate family and the members of the wedding party. This means that the bride and her family should not add people outside of this group to this special dinner without first consulting the groom’s family. At the same time, the groom’s family should remember that a distant great-aunt of the bride who took the time to come to the wedding probably deserves a seat at the rehearsal dinner.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Geography</span><br /><br />Geography plays an important part in rehearsal dinner etiquette for a destination wedding. If the destination for the wedding is outside the United States, or even in Hawaii, the bride and groom should “go the extra mile” for their guests. So, the groom’s family should consider including extra guests at the rehearsal dinner to make them feel welcome.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Size</span><br /><br />Destination weddings tend to be smaller, for the simple reason that fewer people can travel to the location. If the wedding does not have more than 40 or 50 people attending, it might be possible to include everyone in the rehearsal dinner. In fact, for destination weddings, the rehearsal dinner can easily be a relaxing experience, a “night before” party, so that everyone is ready for the wedding the next day. No, the rehearsal dinner may not be traditional, but as the wedding itself is not necessarily traditional, there is no reason not to bend the rules a little.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Considerations</span><br /><br />Because destination weddings are more challenging for everyone—from the bride and the groom to the guests that attend—the rules for the rehearsal dinner sometimes change. For instance, the bride and the groom might offer to host the dinner instead of the groom’s parents, as a way to thank everyone for coming to the wedding. At the same time, the bride and the groom should not assume this responsibility without first discussing it with the groom’s family to avoid unintentionally insulting anyone.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Expert Insights</span><br /><br />Whatever the decision is about the rehearsal dinner, the primary focus should be on relaxation and on making everyone feel welcome. Traveling to a distant location for the wedding is already difficult; add to this challenge that guests might feel awkward not knowing what to do while they wait for the wedding (particularly if the wedding is outside the U.S.), and hospitality is the key. The best decision might be for the groom’s family to arrange a small pre-wedding party or invite every guest to the rehearsal dinner.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-37020560644041871192010-03-02T13:23:00.000-08:002010-03-02T13:27:11.289-08:00How to Start a Wedding Consultant Business<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bDtigo1LCxkAAF6jzbkF/SIG=12rtnjv59/EXP=1267651554/**http%3a//www.grandoccasions-inc.com/Amber___Colin_s_Wedding__C_C__076.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 400px;" src="http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bDtigo1LCxkAAF6jzbkF/SIG=12rtnjv59/EXP=1267651554/**http%3a//www.grandoccasions-inc.com/Amber___Colin_s_Wedding__C_C__076.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />If you love planning magnificent events and enjoy the romance and flair of a wedding, becoming a bridal consultant may be a perfect career choice. A bridal consultant sees to the needs of a bride from the beginning of the planning process until the married couple rides off into the sunset. In order to start your own bridal consultant business, there are many things to learn. <br /><br />Step One:<br />Become an expert. Many Bridal Consultants worked within the wedding industry (bridal shop, flowers, and reception venues) before becoming a consultant, so they already have first-hand knowledge. Whether you are seasoned in the wedding world or you are new to it, it is important to know all of the quality vendors in your area. Build relationships with them by visiting their businesses and asking questions. Establish a network of your most trusted suppliers. The more business you send to your favorite vendors, the better service (and prices) they are likely to provide. Develop a database full of all wedding-related providers so that you can offer multiple suggestions to your bridal clients. <br /><br />Step Two:<br />Study up on wedding trends, etiquette, and creative ideas. Read magazines and websites and attend bridal shows to remain up-to-date on your advice. Attend other weddings to add to your file of ideas and record any mistakes or problems that you can avoid or overcome in your own business.<br /><br />Step Three:<br />Develop your people skills. Bridal Consultants must deal with hundreds of details and thousands of emotions to carry off an impeccable wedding celebration. Therefore, they must be skilled in dealing with people, offering solutions to problems, and navigating potential pitfalls. Overall they must work well under pressure. <br /><br />Step Four:<br />Become an adept money manager. With an average wedding costing $20,000 or more, it is highly important for a new businessperson to be skilled at managing, and stretching, the bride’s budget. Using your newfound people skills, you will negotiate for the best prices and make a low-budget wedding look like that of an heiress. As a business owner, the bridal consultant must also be able to manage one’s own business finances. <br /><br />Step Five:<br />Set your rates and plan your income. Most wedding coordinators make 10 to 15 percent of the wedding budget, but some operate on an hourly rate. An average wedding would take about 35 hours of coordinating. The wedding business is seasonal, so your main income will be earned from May through October. Many bridal consultants offer other party-planning services during the slow wedding months.<br /><br />Step Six:<br />Build your portfolio with clients from successful weddings. Add letters of reference, pictures, and include all of the vendors used and decisions made. This will aid you in developing future events, but it will also prove your abilities to future clients.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-8932633620965955502010-02-16T06:44:00.000-08:002010-02-16T06:44:01.017-08:00Romantic Honeymoons in the Bahamas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.atpm.com/5.11/bahamas/images/bahamas01.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 1024px; height: 768px;" src="http://www.atpm.com/5.11/bahamas/images/bahamas01.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Few places can be quite as romantic as the Bahamas, and particularly for newlyweds enjoying their honeymoon. What is more, there is no shortage of hotel and resort options for romantic couples to choose from. The Bahamas teams not only with natural beauty but also with a range of accommodations spread out across its 29 islands and 661 cays. Choosing the right romantic honeymoon getaway is only a matter of deciding where to stay and what type of hotel or resort to enjoy. With a little research, you and your new spouse will be on your way to enjoying a honeymoon in a place that might just have been made for romantic getaways.<br /><br />Kamalame Cay<br /><br />An all-inclusive resort on a private island just off the island of Andros, Kamalame Cay is set on 96 acres and offers visitors three miles of Bahamas beaches to enjoy. The resort offers guests a range of room options, from cottage suites to a four-bedroom private villa. Each villa and suite is also privately set on the island and within easy distance of the beach. The resort staff will also book guests on one or more of the many activities, including snorkeling, fishing, and diving. Guests can also request a private tour or an eco tour of the island. Romantic couples may arrange for a dinner for two, located right on the beach and with a private chef.<br /><br />Kamalame Cay<br />Staniard Creek, Andros<br />The Bahamas<br />876-632-3213<br />www.kamalame.co.uk<br /><br />One & Only Ocean Club<br /><br />Located on 35 acres, the One & Only Club was once the destination of world-famous jet-setters. The resort style has a West Indian influence, and the hotel includes more than 100 guestrooms. Guests may choose from traditional rooms, as well as beachfront suites, and all guestrooms provide a private terrace or balcony. The resort amenities include a restaurant with Bahamanian influences on the menu and a spa where guests may indulge in holistic treatments. There is a beachfront golf course on site for guests who are also golf enthusiasts. The One & Only Ocean Club also provides a free shuttle to Atlantis for those guests who would like to enjoy the marina, spa, or casino there.<br /><br />One & Only Ocean Club<br />P.O. Box N 477<br />Paradise Island<br />The Bahamas<br />242-363-2501<br />www.oneandonlyresorts.com<br /><br />Green Turtle Club<br /><br />The Green Turtle Club claims to offer guests unparalleled beach access on an island that is only about 3 miles long. What is more, this particular resort is situated to provide guests with beach access on both sides of the island – the Atlantic, as well as the Caribbean. The resort was constructed in 1964, and it retains a style that features a British Colonial influence. Accommodations include standard rooms, as well as villas. The resort will also arrange weddings for guests who would like to be married on site. The Green Turtle Club is located near a town that dates back to the 18th century, so guests may hop on one of the resort golf carts and drive into town to explore the local shops.<br /><br />Green Turtle Club<br />Green Turtle Cay, Abaco<br />The Bahamas Out Islands<br />242-365-4271<br />www.greenturtleclub.comKristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-35826694639832657862010-02-12T06:41:00.000-08:002010-02-12T06:41:00.574-08:00How to Create an Orchid Wedding Bouquet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://whitepoppy.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/hr_orchid_bouquet1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 333px; height: 500px;" src="http://whitepoppy.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/hr_orchid_bouquet1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The delicate and graceful orchid can be a perfect flower for a wedding bouquet. What is more, because the orchid is such a noticeable and beautiful flower, you do not need a large arrangement of them for the bouquet to stand out. When assembling an orchid wedding bouquet, simplicity is best, and the more you feature the flowers, the lovelier the bouquet will be. Adding one other type of flower can set off the orchids even more beautifully, and a few small accessories can create a memorable bouquet that matches your wedding theme. With a few simple steps, you will be on your way to holding the perfect orchid wedding bouquet.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Supplies Needed</span><br /><br />Orchids, in one color or a couple of colors<br />Other flower of your choice (white or colored roses, crocosmia, etc.)<br />Floral wire<br />Floral tape<br />Jewel accessories (small pearls or colored gems)<br />Hot glue gun with glue sticks<br />Ribbon<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Instructions</span><br /><br />Step 1: Gather together the orchids and any other flowers that you plan to use for the bouquet. Check all of the flowers for wilted petals, and remove any petals and leaves that are spent. Clean off anywhere from eight to ten inches of the stem to remove any small leaves or extra stem pieces. The lower portion of the stem is what you will hold, so try out the space to make sure you have enough stem.<br /><br />Step 2: Begin arranging the orchids and any other flowers as you want them to appear in the bouquet. Alternate orchids and other flowers, or just place each orchid in the right spot so that the bouquet is rounded in shape and looks exactly like you want.<br /><br />Step 3: Attach any jewel accessories to the floral wire by hot gluing them down. Be sure the floral wire is about the same length as the flower stems, or even a little shorter, so that it does not stick out below the stems. Depending on the size of the bouquet and the number of flowers that you use, you may have anywhere from three to ten jewel accessories in the bouquet.<br /><br />Step 4: Insert the wired jewels into the bouquet, placing them so that they are visible in the arrangement but do not overwhelm the flowers. The jewel accessories should highlight the beauty of the orchids and other flowers without taking over the bouquet.<br /><br />Step 5: Gather the arrangement together, and wrap the stems with floral wire to secure it. The floral wire will function as a type of “collar” to hold the flowers together, but be sure that you do not place the wire too close to the base of the flower itself. Instead, add the wire about an inch below the flower heads to give the flowers a little room to bend just slightly.<br /><br />Step 6: Wrap the floral wire with floral tape to secure the entire arrangement, and then cover the floral tape with ribbon. Gently hot glue the ribbon down as you secure it around the stems. If you like, hot glue one or more small jewels to the stem for an added touch.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tips and Warnings</span><br /><br />One option for securing any wedding bouquet is also to use a tussy mussy. A tussy mussy can be purchased at most craft supply stores and will provide a ready-made holder for the flowers. Some will even provide an extra stand so that you can display the bouquet during the reception.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-47905092990919398002010-02-11T06:37:00.000-08:002010-02-11T06:41:09.049-08:00Keeping Track of Wedding Vendor Contact Information<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.kwweddingring.ca/vendor_images/rp-09-church.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 298px;" src="http://www.kwweddingring.ca/vendor_images/rp-09-church.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Is your list of wedding vendor information getting out of hand? When you’re planning a wedding you always need to keep the contact information readily available. Luckily for the modern bride, the days of keeping track of vendor information in large books are over. The advent of the spreadsheet and even planning and organizational programs has made it possible to input the necessary data and then update it with little trouble. Keeping track of your vendor contact information is now just a matter of finding the right software and making sure all of your vendors make it into the system.<br /><br />Step 1: Gather the list of vendor information and decide what you need to maintain within the spreadsheet program or vendor organization software. Some businesses will only need to keep track of the basic contact details, such as company name, address, and so forth. Other businesses will need to include extra information that will be useful when it comes time to contact the company. Take the time to think about what you need to include in the program.<br /><br />Step 2: Select the program that you want to use. Basic spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel allow you to build your contact information from scratch and include as many or as few details as you need. A purchasable vendor organization program will already include a variety of options, from the basics of contact details to a variety of vendor-related specifics that might be necessary to know when working with a vendor. Fortunately, the purchasable software will also allow you to select among the available options so that the categories you do not need can be hidden or deactivated.<br /><br />Step 3: Begin adding the contact information that you want to include. As you add the information, check to make sure that you understand how to find records in the event that you need to update them or access them.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Tips and Warnings</span><br /><br />For those familiar with its features, Microsoft Excel can be an excellent program that enables a business to keep track of exactly what it need in terms of vendor contact information. For those who have never worked with the program before, however, it can be somewhat confusing and not always user-friendly. If you are unfamiliar with Excel, the ready-made software might be a better choice.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-16430146197805001122010-02-09T12:41:00.000-08:002010-02-09T12:41:00.256-08:00New Ways to Repurpose Old Engagement Rings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.ritani.com/productimages/1237584835_1RZ1301EERP.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.ritani.com/productimages/1237584835_1RZ1301EERP.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Because an engagement ring has such significant emotional value, it can be difficult to determine what to do with one that you are no longer using. In some cases, a former fiancé will ask for the ring back, but if the ex-fiancé is willing to leave the ring in your possession, you are left with a piece of jewelry that you will likely not want to wear. <br /><br />For those who have old engagement rings from marriages that ended in divorce or death, the rings can be difficult to get rid of, because they might have sentimental value for widows or for the children. Fortunately, there are several options for giving old engagement rings a new purpose, and those who do not wish to wear the rings – whatever the reason – can still find something to do with them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Selling Old Rings</span><br /><br />Obviously, the easiest way to remove an unused engagement ring from your possession is to look into selling it. Unfortunately, engagement rings can be a bit like cars when it comes to resale: they begin losing value the moment they leave the jewelry store. In some cases, a jeweler will take a ring back with a receipt, but this is only if it was purchased fairly recently (and if the ring does not have an inscription). If the ring was purchased some time back, your only real choice for selling the ring is to find a jeweler who is willing to make you an offer for it. Call around to local jewelry stores and explain your situation. Inquire about whether or not, they will give you an estimate on buying the ring. Bear in mind that few grooms-to-be will want to purchase a used ring, so the jeweler will likely have to sell the ring for a reduced price or reset and repurpose it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Resetting Old Rings</span><br /><br />Another option for using an old engagement ring is simply recycling it. If the ring has a stone on it that you do not mind keeping, consider taking the ring to a jeweler and find out if the stone (or stones) can be removed and placed in a necklace or bracelet. This is a good option for those who have an engagement ring from a previous marriage but are now wearing a ring from a current marriage. For instance, a widow can honor her late spouse by resetting the diamond from the previous engagement ring while still wearing the current engagement-wedding ring combination on her hand.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Donating Old Rings</span><br /><br />Donating an old engagement ring to charity might sound like a waste of perfectly good money, but if the ring no longer has sentimental value to you – and it is just sitting in a drawer or safe somewhere – you can still use the value of the ring as a tax write-off and provide someone else with the chance to put the ring to good use. Before donating an old engagement ring, be sure to contact the charitable organization that you would like to give it to, since many of them have policies on items that they will and will not take. Once you have confirmed that they will accept the ring, drop it off and be sure to get a donation receipt for it.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-25798038638007460752010-02-04T14:10:00.000-08:002010-02-04T14:11:54.777-08:00Managing the Children in the Wedding Party<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bI_wRWtL7GUAXOOjzbkF/SIG=12iko47l4/EXP=1265407856/**http%3a//www.foreverwed1.com/articles/children/childrenindex.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 420px; height: 402px;" src="http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9G_bI_wRWtL7GUAXOOjzbkF/SIG=12iko47l4/EXP=1265407856/**http%3a//www.foreverwed1.com/articles/children/childrenindex.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Nothing may be more precious or more meaningful than having adorable flower girls and ring bearers in your wedding. Children, however, present some challenges of their own that you may want to keep in mind for your wedding day event.<br /><br />• Try to stick with children between the ages of five and seven because they’re a bit easier to manage, keep quiet and keep still during the ceremony. They’re also less likely to be afraid of the guest crowd and break into tears<br />• The parents of the children in the wedding typically pay for the child’s attire<br />• The bride pays for and provides the flower girl basket and flowers and the ring pillow<br />• After the children walk down the aisle, have their parents take them to their seat (generally best to sit the parents of the kids near the front)Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-12733714660138618672010-02-02T17:41:00.000-08:002010-02-02T17:43:12.684-08:00Choosing Members of the Wedding PartyFor some weddings, the meaning of choosing attendants is lost. When you choose the groomsmen and the bridesmaids, it should be about choosing special people that you want to stand as witnesses for your very special day. It’s not about making all of the cousins on your mother’s side of the family part of the wedding just because that’s the way it is.<br /><br />Remember, the more people you have in the wedding party, the more people you have to worry about for gifts and on the day of the wedding. It’s not to say that you should have a small wedding party either. You should choose to have the size wedding party you want to have – be it big or small – because you’ve chosen wisely. <br /><br />One more thing, the modern bride doesn’t even have to choose the same number of bridesmaids as her groom chooses groomsmen either. It’s perfectly acceptable to have a disproportionate number. The only rule in choosing your wedding party is that there aren’t any rules at all.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135783076069283399.post-47958477339350538762010-02-01T05:02:00.000-08:002010-02-01T05:05:21.447-08:00How to Get Your Wedding Bands Engraved<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.silverbonsai.com/WB_Pt_005-Engraved-Wedding-.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://www.silverbonsai.com/WB_Pt_005-Engraved-Wedding-.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Many couples choose to have an inscription engraved on the inside of their wedding bands as a memento of the special occasion. One of the items you can engrave is your names. Most couples also add the date of the wedding, if it fits. If you have decided to engrave names in your wedding bands, here are the steps you need to take to get it done.<br /><br />Decide how the inscription will read. You may choose to engrave your own name on your own wedding band and your husband’s name on his wedding band. You may choose to engrave his name on your band and vice versa. Your other option is to engrave both of your name. however you decide, figure out precisely how you want to names to read.<br /><br />Find a jeweler or engraving company. Ask the jeweler where you’re buying your wedding bands if they offer an engraving service or ask if they can refer you to an engraving service. Once you find a company to engrave the rings, schedule an appointment to discuss the details such as cost, possible problems, etc. <br />Discuss options with the engraver. While most professional engravers can easily engrave your rings, things can go wrong. When you schedule a meeting with the engraver, be sure to ask all of the questions you have such as what happens if the ring is damaged during the engraving process or if the engraver makes a mistake? <br /><br />Show and ask for samples. Bring engraving samples you like to the meeting with your engraver to show them how you want your engravings to look. Also, ask them for samples of their engraving work so you can judge the quality of their work with your own eyes. <br />Choose hand or machine engraving. If your rings have very intricate design features, you may have to opt for hand engraving over machine engraving. Otherwise, you should be able to have the names engraved by a machine, which tends to be less time intensive and cost less money. <br /><br />Inspect the engraving. Ask for the engraver to provide a proof of what the engraving will look like before they start working on your rings. Once you approve the proof and go to pick your rings up from the engraver, make sure you carefully review the engravings to make sure that your names are spelled correctly and that it looks the same or similar to the proof you approved.Kristie Lorettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570207391380640134noreply@blogger.com0