Honeymoon Tips

Perhaps the most exciting part of the wedding planning process is choosing the honeymoon destination and making the necessary arrangements. When it comes to dream weddings, the honeymoon plays an important role in topping off the event with the perfect getaway. If you’re hoping to savor your first few weeks as newly married couples and your first real vacation as man and wife, you may want to consider a few of these tips:

1- The first step is to decide if you want to take your honeymoon directly after the wedding and receptions, or if you’d rather wait a few months until things settle down and you are ready for a romantic getaway. Some couples feel that a wedding isn’t a wedding unless it ends with unwinding after the big day by going on an exotic honeymoon; while others prefer to get settled into life for a few months and save up before splurging on a trip together. Whatever you decide, be sure to consult together so you can both be happy about your arrangements.

2- Next, choose a destination. Although this can be one of the most fun parts of the planning process, it can also be overwhelming, as there are literally innumerable places you can go. Before you pick your destination, consider your vacation style. Do you both like to stay busy, using every minute of the day to its fullest, or do you prefer to spend the time relaxing without following a rigorous schedule. Maybe you like to alternate between both options. You and your spouse might have different vacation styles, making it necessary to compromise so both of you enjoy the trip.

3- Decide on a budget and stick to it. Compare costs associated with everything you plan to do, including transportation of all kinds, snacks, meals, entertainment, passes, tickets, gifts, and more. Research romantic getaway places and discuss what your vacation priorities are. Sometimes travel agents are worth the extra money you might pay because they save you time, hassle, and stress, taking care of all your travel needs—even those you may not have thought of.


4- Don’t skimp on your accommodations. Maybe on future trips, but not on your honeymoon. Be sure the place you choose to stay is ambient and special, as most couples choose to spend a lot of time in their accommodations. This could be the single most important aspect of your honeymoon trip, so do it right.

5- Surprise your new love by presenting him/her with a honeymoon gift. This could be something as simple as a love letter or some time spent doing something special for your new spouse. Remember, this is your first time for many experiences together as man and wife, so do what you can to make it memorable and special.

Wherever or whenever you decide to go, be sure to take lots of pictures so you and your posterity can enjoy looking back on your first trip together as a married couple. Since few trips will hold the uniqueness and excitement of your honeymoon, be sure to make the time and effort to plan a trip neither one of you will ever forget!

A Winning Combination

It’s your wedding day, and you want to look perfect. Flawless skin, lush lashes, and a radiant smile are a must for every bride hoping to turn heads, especially the groom’s. So, how can you achieve this winning combination? Here are a few ideas.

Flawless Skin:
It’s vital to cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize properly on a regular basis for months leading up to the big day. Avoid intense skin treatments, such as chemical peels or photo-facials eight weeks prior to your wedding to ensure your skin has had enough time to heal. Because facials deeply cleanse the skin and often bring out impurities, be sure to get one at least four weeks before the wedding. Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen. Be sure to apply some with an SPF of 15 or higher to provide adequate protection from sun damage.

Lush Lashes:
For eyes that look wider and more awake, begin by using an eyelash curler. Then apply mascara by placing the brush at the base of the lash line and wiggling it from side to side to blur the line between the lid and the lashes, making them appear fuller. Be sure to apply the second coat before the first one dries to prevent clumps. If clumping occurs anyway, try using a comb with metal prongs to separate lashes. Waterproof mascara is a bride’s best friend—it makes tears of joy nothing to fear. Remember, the average shelf life of a tube of mascara is about three months. After that, throw it out to prevent bacteria buildup that can cause infection. And don’t pump. Pumping the wand forces air into the tube and dries the mascara out more quickly. Take a minute after applying mascara to examine eyes closely to be sure there is no black dots or smearing on your eyelids. Then face the day with confidence—you’ll be saying “Eye Do” with each blink.

Radiant Smile:
To look your very best on your wedding day, see your dentist six months out to take care of any potential problems, and then again at three months out for another cleaning. If you plan to have your teeth whitened professionally, schedule that one month out. To ensure adequate brushing, try an electric toothbrush that brushes the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, and be sure to brush for at least two minutes each time so that you do the best job possible. For beautiful teeth, eat more crunchy fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in fiber, acting like tiny toothbrushes scrubbing away at your teeth as you eat.

Now that your skin is glowing, your lashes are dark and lush, and your pearly whites are gleaming, don’t forget to smile! This is your wedding day, and you look picture perfect!

Your Own Unique Wedding

Want to add your own unique flare to your wedding? Although following trends has always been . . .well, a trend, your wedding should definitely be an event that reflects the real you, and although you may wish to follow tradition for some of your wedding plans, here are a few ideas of simple ways you can personalize your day.

1- Hang a series of framed photos of each of you as children around the reception so guests can peruse and catch a glimpse of your lives while growing up.

2-If you're not a big fan of sweets, serve a grand "cheesecake" built entirely of your favorite types of cheese: goat cheese, Roquefort, and more.

3- Order custom labels for bottled water to be served.

4- Make a toasat (can use grape juice) to the woman who has had the greatest impact on your life, then offer her your bouqet as a special tribute.

5- Have your florist design your bouquet in the same style as your mother's.

6- Personalize the bridesmade's flowers by selecting blooms that pair with each girl's birth month. You may want to stick to one color to look more unified; for example, pink rose, pink tulip, pink piony, and so on.

7-Forget the traditional guest book that just gets tossed aside after the wedding. Choose a coffee-table book you love and will want to display at home, and let guests write on the photos or in the margins.

8- Attach a ribbon embelished with your birthstone to your bouquet.

9-Create one large floral cednterpiece out of 10 mini vases and invite guests to take one on their way out.

10-Offer cookies baked from family recipes and provide recipe cards for guests to take home.

Whatever you decide for your special day, be sure to make it your own. Don't be afraid to try something new. After all, this wedding is about YOU and your new spouse, so don't hesitate to add your own special touch.

Marriage--Good For Your Health?

Want to improve your overall health? Experts say to choose your marriage partner wisely then. That’s right, deciding who to spend forever with is even more important than you may have thought. Not only do you want to choose someone you are compatible with, who shares your same values and belief system, and who will be your complete companion so you can be ultimately happy, but research shows that when you are married to someone who truly makes you happy, your mental and physical health increase.

Greater resistance to infection, fewer infections, as well as reduced likelihood of dying from cancer, heart disease and all major killers are just a few of the physical health benefits of a healthy marital relationship. Longevity is another one. So, if you are hoping to live a long life, choose wisely.

There are also many mental benefits to good, satisfying marital relationships. Less depression, less anxiety disorders, less psychosis, less posttraumatic stress disorders, and fewer phobias are included. A happily married person also has fewer injuries due to accidents.

On the other hand, marital stress can double a person’s risk of developing diabetes and some studies show women in marital distress have a three times greater risk of a second heart attack. In fact, studies across the board have traced marital stress to cardiovascular health. Blood pressure was found to be directly related to marital cohesion, an encouraging reason for couples to spend time with each other and share positive experiences together.

All in all, a happy, positive marriage relationship can do wonders for a person—mentally and physically. So, when choosing your marriage partner, remember you are choosing someone, not only to share your life with and create a family with, but also someone who could drastically change your overall health—for better or worse—so be sure to pick someone who makes you happy.

A Piece of Cake

With all your other wedding preparations and deadlines, you may think the cake is no big deal. Think again. Choosing a cake is one of the most creative, fun—and delicious—parts of the planning process. It’s the “icing on the cake,” so to speak, of your decorating and refreshment plans, the final touch that says you’ve got it all together.

When choosing a cake, there are many things to consider, from size and shape, to flavor, color, size and topper. A wedding cake should reflect the personality of the married couple and match the theme, color and mood of the wedding. It may be a good idea to choose the cake once the other decorations are decided to ensure the cake fits in well and compliments your plans.

If you plan to have a professional bakery make your cake, try to set up an appointment about three months before the wedding. Be prepared with ideas including pictures, color samples, and more. Also, be open to suggestions and ideas from the baker; after all, he is a professional and will have much experience in wedding cakes.

Although many brides still choose to follow tradition and display a round, white cake, keep in mind you are not limited to do the same. Cakes today can be made of cheesecake, pound cake, or you can even decide on a cupcake tree. Another option is to have a simple groom’s cake. Whatever you choose, be sure to budget $600-$1,000 for this step. If your budget will not allow you to spend that much, there are ways to cut costs. One idea is to buy a smaller cake for artistic display, using sheet cakes to accompany it. You can also have most of the cake be frosted molds, rather than real cake, which makes it less expensive. If you want to add sentimental value to your cake and you are creative, you may want to make it yourself. That way, you can design it any way you want. Just be sure to practice first—you wouldn’t want your first cooking experience as a married woman to be a disaster!

Whatever you decide, be sure to enjoy this step of the wedding planning process. After all, it is one of the least expensive and most creative parts.

Bridal Gowns--What They're Made Of

Although looking fabulous is a must on your wedding day, nothing is more important than feeling fabulous. When shopping for a wedding gown, keep in mind you have to wear it, dance in it and mingle in it for many hours, so you'll want to choose a fabric that feels and moves as freely and beautifully as you do.

No bride wants to show up at her wedding in a gown that looks similar to a cheap Halloween costume. Textures and fibers play a vital role in the wedding gown's appearance, so be sure to take the time to inspect gowns as you try them on to see what they are made of. Popular wedding fabrics include silk, duchesse satin, and blends of silk and rayon. The dress should shimmer with the luster and gloss and should be heavy enough that it doesn't go flying around every time a breeze drifts by, but light enough that it is comfortable. Consequently, what you're wearing underneath your dress is just as significant. Ideally, you should purchase only the softest and finest fauzes, such as chiffon, organza and tulle, which are also practical choices since they are known for their buoyant properties.

When choosing a gown, you should also consider after-wedding preparations. If you are hoping to pack up your dress and preserve it, keep in mind that cheaper materials won't survive as gracefully through the years as the more high-end fabrics. If you want to hang on to your dress for a lifetime, it may be worth it to invest in a dress made of more resilient materials. If you can't afford the more superior textiles, don't worry. You can still obtain a similar look and feel without going over your wedding budget by using a good rayon instead of silk, or choosing a material, such as satin, that has polyester woven into it.

All in all, what matters is that you look and feel your best. Following these simple guidelines will help you choose the perfect dress for you, from the way it sparkles and moves, to the way it feels and hangs. Then, you can enjoy your wedding day without fussing over your apparel.

Springtime Array of Blooms

If your wedding happens to fall in the spring or summer months, you can enjoy the array of flower options that add life and flavor to your wedding ensemble. From delicate blossoms to bold flashes of color, the flowers you choose are a vital part of the look and feel of your wedding, adding just the right splash of color and scent to shape the mood of your entire day.
Here are some favorites.

The Rose:
A wedding classic, a rose is always in good taste. Roses come in an assortment of colors, so forget thinking you have to choose red. In fact, bi-color and garden varieties are becoming more and more popular, so don’t be afraid to choose an assortment of colors. Circus roses and carousel varieties are also increasing in popularity. One great aspect of roses is that they are affordable and widely available.

The Gerbera Daisy:
For a lighter, fresher look, consider gerbera daisies. Because pink is such a popular wedding color, these bright, fun flowers are a great choice, ranging in tones from light blush to vibrant fuchsia, providing you with many color options. Gerbera Daisies are an especially great option for outdoor affairs.

The Tulip:
Tulips are a great choice if your wedding happens to be in early spring, as their optimal growing season is January through May; however, many tulips are now available year round as well, so don’t dismiss this option if your wedding is in late summer, and you have your heart set on this beautiful, slender blossom. Tulips are considered the perfect spring flower and, depending on whether you choose field tulips or French tulips, can stand up to 24 inches tall.

The Peruvian Lilly:
Looking for the perfect addition to your bridal bouquet? Try this long-lasting bloom that comes in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, white, purple, red or orange alstroemeria. This unique flower is also an excellent option for topiary centerpieces.

The Asiatic Lilly:
Another option for lilies is the beautiful, exotic Asiatic lily. If you are hoping for a modern or sleek wedding look, Asiatic lilies are a perfect choice with their clean lines and variety of vibrant colors. Lilies of all varieties, including calla and oriental are some of the most elegant of all wedding flowers, but keep in mind that Oriental lilies give off a great deal of aroma, so if you or someone in your wedding party are sensitive to scent, you may wish to choose a less fragrant flower.

Stock:
Stock is a flower you may not have thought to use as it is newer to the wedding flower world, but it is a great option if you are hoping for a fragrant blossom that comes in a variety of soft wedding colors, including lavender, butter yellow, white and even fuchsia. This flower includes a small collection of tiny flowers making up a delicate whole.

While shopping for flowers, keep in mind there are endless options, so if you don’t find what you’re looking for immediately, don’t get discouraged. You are bound to find just the right shade, look, and size you are hoping for if you keep at it. Whatever you choose, enjoy the rich, beautiful freshness blossoms can add to your perfect day!

Bridal Gown Shopping--Book Your Appointment

Hoping to maximize your time and experience at a bridal shop? While many shops do not require you make an appointment, it is wise to do so. If you leave it to chance, you may arrive at the shop while store clerks are busy with other customers and your experience may end up being unsatisfactory, even though the shop may have everything you’re looking for.

Booking an appointment beforehand will assure the salespeople will be dedicated to helping you! Most shops will set aside at least one hour, sometimes two, to focus on meeting your specific needs. To use your time most efficiently, try to have an idea of what you’re looking for before you come to your appointment. You may even want to mention these details to the salesperson who books your appointment, so they can already have some dresses set aside for you to try on before you even enter through the front doors.

Some questions the clerks may ask you are:
1-What kind of dresses do you prefer: ball gown, mermaid, etc.?
2-Are you interested in couture bridal gowns, current trends, or older styles?
3-Is there anything you are specifically looking for in a wedding dress?
4-What is your ideal price range?
5-Are there other needs we can take care of for you while you’re here?

If the salesperson doesn’t ask for all of this information, don’t hesitate to offer it to them. The more they know, the better they will be able to assist you and the better your buying experience will be.

Kathleen’s Bridal Shop welcomes walk-ins, happy to do what they can to help whoever walks through their doors; however, they also accept appointments, so if you can plan ahead, call for an appointment first to assure there will be a salesperson waiting specifically for you. That way, your buying experience will be optimal. And don’t stress out if you run out of time--a friendly assistant will schedule a time for you to return to finish filling your important shopping needs if you don’t get it all done in one day.

The Veil

Although you may not realize it, picking out the right veil is just as important as making the best dress choice. Because veils vary in length as well as simplicity, it can be a difficult chore to decide on the right one. Experts say it is important for your veil to enhance your overall appearance, complementing both you and your gown.

So, how do you go about it? Here are a few things to consider.

Proportion: A short veil will appear too informal with a long gown. Also, if you are hoping to add height to your appearance, keep in mind that a long veil—or one with multiple tiers--tends to overwhelm a short bride, having the opposite effect.

Fabric: Today, most brides choose a veil made of nylon tulle. If you are hoping for the more traditional silk tulle, remember it tends to get limp when it is damp, whereas nylon retains its stiffness. Rhinestones are not a good idea for a veil, as they will often appear as tiny black dots in wedding photos. When it comes to veils, you may wish to steer clear of embellishments, as even pearls and tiny satin bows can look spotty in photographs.

Veils can be made in various styles, so you’re sure to find one that completes your wedding ensemble perfectly. There is really no end to veil options and combinations. Here are a few types to consider:

Types:

The Blusher: A short, single-layered veil that falls right below the top of the bride’s shoulders. It can also be paired with longer veils that cascade down the back for a more ceremonial appearance. Can be both a formal or casual look.


The Fly-Away: A tad shorter than the Blusher, falling right at the neckline. It also can be paired with a wedding dress that has a distinctive back. A better pick for an informal look.



The Fingertip: The most diverse wedding veil. Cascades around back of bride, falling at hand-length. It can be paired with a shorter veil. Looks best with formal wedding dresses. Great also for a day-time wedding.




The Cathedral: It looks best when paired with a cathedral train. Can also be paired with a blusher veil so the front of the wedding gown is fully exposed.




Although these are four of the most popular styles, there are other types of veils to consider as well. So . . . just because you've finally decided on that gown that makes you look stunning, remember, your work isn't finished yet. You' ve still got to choose the veil that will accent you and your gown perfectly. Be sure to try the bridal shop where you bought your wedding dress first; that way, you already have your gown there and won't have to drag it back when deciding on a veil. Either way, hope you like shopping!

Frosting--Choosing the Right Jewels

Once you’ve chosen the perfect gown for your special day, it’s time to accessorize! Selecting jewelry is one of the most important elements of a bride’s ensemble. You want to embellish your look without going over the top. Deciding what jewelry is best depends upon your bridal gown. Most bridal shops carry a pretty extensive selection of bridal jewelry, so be sure to check there first since you will already have your dress with you and can easily see what will work and what won’t.

The good news is you don’t have to fork out a lot of cash to have great-looking jewelry. There are hundreds of on-line companies who sell faux pearl chokers and diamond-studded earrings for affordable prices. Nobody is going to be examining your jewelry to be sure it’s the real deal--just try to choose pieces that appear to be authentic.

Sometimes selecting the right jewelry can be more difficult than finding the gown you love. Above all else, it is important to obtain a look that is classy, which may mean toning down the brilliant rhinestones and opting for something a bit more subtle, like pearls. Pearl bridal jewelry is always a popular alternative because it can add dimension and beauty without detracting from other aspects of your bridal ensemble. Plus, pearls are always in style, while other, more obvious jewelry pieces may come and go. Keep in mind that, depending on the neckline of your gown, certain pieces will flatter you while others may be too much. A simple deviation in necklace style could alter your entire look, so it is important to choose carefully.

When choosing jewelry, it is also important to keep in mind that more does not necessarily mean better. It is a rare occurrence to find an earring, necklace, bracelet, and ring combination that looks good. So, if you are a person who prefers to adorn every exposed body part, make sure you select items that are delicate and elegant—nobody wants to look like their gaudy Aunt Josephine on their wedding day! If you are going for the supreme romantic look, consider losing the necklace, and go for drop earrings and maybe a few hair accents instead.

To avoid looking like a Christmas tree, experts suggest not pairing long dangle earrings with a necklace. If you really want to wear both, select simple diamond studs.

If it’s possible to pull your hair back into a “mock” do before trying on your jewelry, it may help you choose the accessories that will look best for your wedding day. Make the occasion a friend and family affair, taking trusted girlfriends with you to give you helpful advice.

Above all, have fun! Choosing the right jewelry can and should be just as fun as picking out the perfect gown. Good luck!

Cleaning Your Wedding Dress—Before and After The Big Day

Most people make the effort to properly care for and preserve their wedding dresses once the wedding is over, but seldom do they think about having it cleaned before the big day. You may wonder why this would be necessary, but chances are more than ten other bodies were in that gown at some point in time. Due to repetitive try-ons, your gown could have faint deodorant marks, lipstick stains, or discolorations from oily hands and faces. These flaws could be subtle enough to be unnoticed at first glance, but under the sun and spotlight they could become very obvious.

Fortunately, some dress shops offer cleaning and pressing services for your convenience. Kathleen’s Bridal is one of these shops! Depending on how dirty your dress may be, Kathleen’s offers top-notch cleaning for only $85-$125. Because many gowns include delicate intricacies, buying your dress from a shop like Kathleen’s can be a great advantage because they can care for your garment from top to bottom, including beadwork and hard-to-clean areas. You can feel assured your gown is in great care and will be ready for your big day.

If you do not have the option of having your dress tailored and cleaned directly through the bridal shop where you bought it, do your research and only take your gown to a professional cleaner that specializes specifically in bridal gowns. It is important to make sure they can properly handle the trims and bead work that may be on the dress, and don’t leave without asking them for additional tips on how to keep the garment clean up until the day of the wedding.

Once the dress is cleaned and pressed, hang it up using the intended hangar hoops (yes, those annoying hoops do have a purpose other than trying to escape and be seen at inopportune times). While a plastic bag may guard the dress from moths and dust, sometimes the plastic wrap has a way of yellowing the dress over time, not to mention the plastic has a higher chance of accumulating moisture with can cause your dress to mildew, so keep that in mind if your wedding date is a ways off.

Remember, experts say it may be important to clean the dress before and after the wedding. Even if you’re not planning on having the gown professionally preserved, you should have it cleaned as soon as possible after your wedding to prevent stains that were accrued during the reception to have time to set in.


There’s no better feeling than that of freshness and confidence, especially on your wedding day. Taking care to have your gown cleaned before the wedding can provide you with the assurance you look your very best. And making the effort to clean it afterwards will be well worth it as your gown can provide wonderful memories for years to come.

Wedding Gown Necklines—Which Is Right For You?

“I love this gown!” you might say as you stare at your image in the bridal shop mirror. But, does it love you back? Just because you are fond of a certain type of dress or style doesn’t mean it’s best suited for your body type and figure. This is even true where your neckline is concerned. Whether you are well endowed or have a small cup size, whether you have broad shoulders or narrow ones, even your height will determine what neckline flatters you most. Here are some basic guidelines to use when you go dress shopping for modest wedding gowns.


Jewel: This neckline is round and flows along the base of the neck. It is ideal for women who want the wedding gown to enhance the chest area.

Bateau: This wide wedding gown neckline flows with the curve of the collarbone. Use this neckline when the chest area needs enhanced.

Queen Anne: This neckline features a high collar at the back and sides of the neck, slowly curving down into a low, open heart shaped neckline. It’s suitable for almost every body type.

Square: This neckline is shaped like a half square. It is best for women who are well endowed, as it cuts low without being too revealing, but it is suitable and flattering for almost every body type.

V-Neck: The v-shaped gown neckline flatters many body types as well. The depth of the “V” will depend on the design of the wedding gown. It is best for women with a size “B” or “C” cup. It also flatters women who are full figured or hour-glass shaped.

Scoop: The scoop features a u-shaped neckline, flattering for just about any bride who plans to wear a wedding gown on her wedding day.

Sweetheart: This neckline, forming a heart shape at the bustline, is flattering on most brides.

Here’s a simple key to refer to:

Nice Collarbones : Bateau, Scoop

Well-Endowed: Square, Jewel, Scoop, Sweetheart

Accentuating an Average-Size Chest: Jewel, Scoop

Full Arms: Portrait, Scoop

Shorter Than Average Body Type: Queen Anne, Scoop

Hour Glass Figure: V-Neck

Chest Cup Size B or C: V-Neck

Remember, these are not hard and fast rules to live by when selecting your neckline—just guidelines to help you look your best. The ultimate decision is up to you—good luck!

Bridesmaids

Choosing your bridesmaids is just one important task on your wedding list. Having trouble narrowing down your options? Wonder exactly how to ask, who to ask, and when to ask? Here are a few tips to help you answer your bridesmaid questions.

Choose friends who understand you.

If you have been blessed with a lot of good friends and you are wondering how to narrow down your options, think about the roles you would like your bridesmaids to play, like party planner or supportive listener, and choose those who will best fit these roles. Inviting close family members to participate can be meaningful as well, but if there are too many to choose from, consider asking friends or family members with whom you're in touch regularly, who live close by, and who you've had the closest relationship with. Bridesmaids play an important role, so don't take this step too lightly.

More isn't merrier.

It is recommended that you choose six or fewer bridesmaids. While it's appropriate to invite your future sisters-in-law, inviting other in-lawas or extended-family members is up to you. Although it's tempting, don't feel obligated to "repay" friends who asked you to be in their weddings, especially if your relationship is not that close anymore. Keep in mind that the more bridesmaids you invite to participate, the greater the expense.

Invite with style.

Be sure to ask each bridesmaid individually, rather than as a group, so that if one of them is unable to attend, she can say no without feeling conspicuous. Remember that you are asking (not telling), so be prepared for someone to decline your offer if they need to. Some ideas for asking include sending a note with a special photo or token of your friendship, giving a t-shirt that says "Bridesmaid," or, if you already know your wedding colors, send and accessory (like a necklace or hairpiece) that matches. Take prospective bridesmaids that live nearby to a favorite lunch spot, and invite long-distance friends over the phone, rather than by e-mail. When it comes to bridesmaids, the more personal, the better!

Be upfront with close friends you don't invite to be bridesmaids.

It's important to always inform your friends in person that you are not inviting them to be a bridesmaid, rather than allowing them to hear it secondhand. Be polite but honest. You may wish to tell her you would like to have invited her but you just can't expand your number. Find another important way for her to participate if possible, so she doesn't feel left out or uncared for.

Say Thankyou.

Be sure to express your gratitude for your bridesmaids' time, money, and support. Acknowledge their efforts, but remember it is not necessary to flatter them with lavish gifts or over-the-top ensambles. Treat them to a festive brunch or give each a thoughtful gift when the wedding comes around.

Can I Have This Dance?

If you and your fiancé are dreaming about dazzling guests with a “first dance” at your reception, you may want to schedule some time for lessons, just to assure no one’s toes get stepped on. Some couples want lessons for parents as well, so the mother-son and the father-daughter dances can be choreographed, too. Besides the obvious traditional wedding dances, there are some other fun wedding reception dances that get everyone in attendance involved and create great memories for all who are present. Here are a few ideas to get started.

The Dollar Dance or Money Dance
A staple of wedding receptions for ages, the appropriateness of the Dollar Dance at weddings has been questioned in recent years. The original premise of the dance was to give the newlyweds a few extra bucks to spend on their honeymoon.

Although there are a number of variations of the Dollar Dance, here is a basic description:

During a predetermined song, the bride and her Maid/Matron of honor and the Groom and his Best Man take places on the dance floor. Male guests line up for an opportunity to dance one-on-one with the bride, and female guests line up for a personal dance with the groom. Each dance lasts around 30 seconds. The Maid/Matron of Honor and Best Man collect the dollars from each guest.

The Dollar Dance has the advantage of giving the bride and groom a few seconds of personal time to spend with each guest. It also can be used as the first dance of the evening in place of a receiving line.

The Wish Dance
Recently, the "Wish Dance" has been suggested as a replacement for the Dollar Dance. The bride and groom take the dance floor and start dancing. Guests then cut in for a 15 - 30 second personal dance with the bride or groom without any money changing hands. A fun addition to this dance is for each guest who cuts in to dance to offer the new bride or groom a personal “wish” for their marriage.

Here are some song suggestions for the Dollar / Money Dance:

“If I Had A Million Dollars” - Barenaked Ladies

“For The Love Of Money” - The O'Jays

“Baby Mine” - Bette Midler

“Money,Money, Money” - Abba

The Snowball Dance
The Snowball Dance is a great way to get wedding guests moving to the dance floor. An up-tempo song is played as the the wedding party is called to the dance floor. The bridal party begins dancing. When the music stops, the female members of the bridal party go to the seated guests and bring back another male partner. The males of the bridal party do the same and bring back a female partner. The fun continues until every able body dancer is on the dance floor!

You can also start the Snowball Dance by calling one couple from each table to the dance floor to join the bridal party.

The Anniversary Wedding Dance
The Anniversary Dance starts with all married couples at the wedding on the dance floor. The MC then asks everyone who has been married less than 12 hours to sit down (obviously the bride & groom). Then you move on to 1 year, 5 years, 10 years, etc… until only one couple remains on the dance floor (the longest married couple).

The bride and groom usually give the couple a special flower bouquet. Sometimes another song is played and the two couples dance together.

Wedding Special Dance Summary
It's also a great idea to have the wedding songs of people close to the bride and groom played during the reception. This gives an opportunity to recognize these special people at the wedding.
For wedding dances, the foxtrot and waltz are still popular. Following are some music ideas that have made for magical dancing memories over the years.

Foxtrot
“You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To”
“Side by Side”
“Just One of Those Things”
“Cheek to Cheek”
“Dancing in the Dark”
“I Love Paris”

Waltz
“True Love”
“Sunrise, Sunset”
“Moon River”
“Fascination”
“Fly Me to the Moon”
“Hello, Young Lovers”

Whatever songs you choose, and whatever combination of dances you decide on, music and dancing can definitely add just the right touch of romance, intimacy and flavor to your reception, creating the perfect ending to a perfect day!

Let's Talk

With all there is to plan before the wedding day—flowers, guests, food, etc.—it might seem there is little time left over to talk about what’s really important. Depending on how long you’ve dated and how well you know each other, there may be some important topics that have never really been discussed. Here are a few you might want to consider before tying the knot.

1- Money. This is a topic that can’t be ignored. In addition to discussing financial responsibilities, joint checking accounts, a budget, and saving plans, it’s critical for couples to talk about spending habits and expectations. It’s also important to disclose to each other any debt or credit-card problems in order to avoid any devastating surprises after you’re married.

2- The In-laws. This may not be your favorite topic, but as they say, “When you marry someone, you marry their family also,” so it’s a good idea to discuss your relationship with each other’s parents before they become in-laws. Bring up issues such as frequency and duration of visits, expectations in regards to relationships with each other’s in-laws, and any other touch matters you may be concerned about.

3- Holidays. Along with discussing expectations concerning each other’s families, it’s a good idea to decide things like which family you will visit for Thanks giving and Christmas before the festivities begin. You may also want to discuss how much to spend on gifts and who to invite for special occasions, such as birthdays.

4- Household Responsibilities. This one may have never crossed your mind, but it’s a good topic to decide on before you are married and realize you are not meeting your spouse’s expectations where household chores are concerned. Are you going to fairly divide up the cooking, cleaning, and laundry, or will a different system work better? Each of you may be coming into the marriage from very different family and social backgrounds, so to avoid misunderstandings, take some time to talk this one over.

5- Baby Talk. This topic is perhaps the most important one of all to discuss. You may both want children, but discussing how many, when to have them, and how you’ll handle child-rearing is vital. Few things are more devastating than finding out you assumed your spouse thinks and feels the same way as you about starting and raising a family, and then finding out you were wrong, so take the appropriate time to plan and discuss this topic thoroughly.

These are just a few ideas. There may be other topics you or your future spouse find necessary to discuss before the big day, such as intimacy, religious practices, and more. So, forget about the stress of planning for a while, and take some time to talk. You’ll be glad you did!

Budget Ideas to Keep You From Breaking the Bank

Newlyweds have months and even years of adjustments to make once the honeymoon is over and real life begins. Setting up a budget together is one of the most important tasks to complete; it can also be one of the most difficult. Here are a few tips from women who have just gone through the transition. Hopefully you’ll find some advice that will help you as you begin this new journey with your sweetheart.

1-Track all of your expenses, using whatever computer program you are most comfortable with. It’s vital you watch where your money is spent, and then sit down together to talk through your finances and decide where you want your money to go. This clears up any confusion or misconceptions and gives you the opportunity to find out where you’re overspending and make a plan to spend less.

2-Pay down wedding debt as quickly as possible. One way to accomplish this is to review your expenses and eliminate anything non-essential. Take brown bag lunches to work instead of eating out—save dining out for special occasions, take stock of your TV, Internet and phone services and cut back if possible, and make your grocery-store dollars go farther with printable online coupons (try coupons.com). Put any extra cash toward your credit cards until they are paid off, and then put the same amount into savings until you have a three month’s salary saved for emergencies. At that time, you can reevaluate your situation and reward yourselves for a job well done.

3- Determine how you want to handle your banking and whether you want to open a joint account. Every couple has to find and agree on a system that works for them. Be sure you are both on board and feel comfortable with your system. Reevaluate after a few months to make sure things are going well, making any adjustments that may be necessary.

4-Organize all important legal and financial documents and keep them in a protected place in case of emergency.

5-Inform employers of your new status and make changes to benefit plans if necessary.

6-Reconsider you insurance needs—you may qualify for discounted rates by merging all policies with a single provider.

7- Change your name and address as necessary on important documents including your social security card, driver’s license, and credit cards.

Wedding Q's&A's

Your wedding is one of the biggest days of your life, and you want to get it right. As you've probably realized, there are literally hundreds of minute details to consider, and since you've probably never planned a wedding before, lots of questions come up. Here are some answers to a few of them.

Q: How much time do we have to send out thank-you notes for our wedding gifts?

A: You may have heard you have up to a year after your wedding to send out thank-you's, but that is not true. Proper etiquette requires you send them out within three months. To relieve some of the pressure, be sure to acknowledge immediately any gifts you receive before the wedding day; also, don't hesitate to share this responsibility with your new husband. That way, you can get them done twice as fast!

Q: I've been invited to a friend's bridal shower, but I'm unable to attend. Do I still need to send a gift, and how much should I spend?

A: Yes, you should still send a gift. In fact, although many people gift a shower gift and a wedding gift, the wedding gift is not required--the bridal shower one is. And, deciding what to spend depends on your budget. There is not set rule of thumb for the amount you spend, and no one should feel obligated to spend more than they can. A good alternative to purchasing your own gift is to go to the bride's registry. That way you can browse through the items she's picked out and choose one that's affordable.

Q: How can I get my lip gloss to shine throughout my wedding day?

A: It can definitely be a pain for a busy bride to constantly be worrying about her lips. You may be lucky enough to find a creamy lipstick that also glimmers like a gloss (Have you ever tried Bobbi Brown's creamy lip color or Cosmoholic's liquid lipsticks?). Another option is to layer lip gloss over a matching lipstick. The lipstick serves as a colored primer, making your gloss last much longer.

Q: I'm flat-chested. What can I do to still look great in my gown without making it obvious I have enhanced things?

A: It depends on the style and types of fabrics you are wearing. If your gown is made of heavy fabric and has a corset-style or form-fitting bodice, that may be enough to give you a little lift and fullness up top. Another suggestion is to have your seamstress sew thin, bra pads into the lining of your gown. That way, you can add some shape without disturbing your sleek look. The most important thing is to go with an option you feel most comfortable with so that you are not feeling self-conscious on your wedding day.

Q: I'm not good at chitchat, but I don't want to appear stuck-up or rude. How do I master small talk throughout my wedding day?

A: Try opening with questions like: "What's new with your family?" or "What's been keeping you busy lately?" These starters demand full-sentence answers, so you will mostly have to listen. Since you want to acknowledge as many people as possible, keep in mind you do not need to chat with a person for very long. Saying "Thank you for coming" is always an appropriate and simple way to approach people, especially those you don't know well. As long as you show interest and appreciation to those you mingle with, no one will judge you as being rude or stuck-up.