2009 August

Candle Favors Come In Many Design Themes

August 30, 2009 By Ingrid 1 Comment

One of the most popular wedding favors during any season or in any country are candles. These are vastly popular as they are easily accessible, widely varied in design, style and color, suit all four seasons of the year and visually appealing. The increased interest in aromatherapy, and alternative relaxation techniques have also contributed to the popularity of candle keepsakes, especially scented ones. They are also considered romantic gifts during weddings.

- Religious themes. Keepsakes with a theme that is religious often carry crosses on them. Other equally religious signs like the upside down cross or spellings of religious words or name like “Allah” or “Jesus” can also be endeavored.

- Romantic themes. Some candles are designed with romance in mind. These would carry heart shapes on them which are either carved into their waxy surface or imprinted on them. Other romantic designs are candles that are shaped into wedding gowns or have the word “L-O-V-E” spelt out on them. They are also often white, ivory or silver in color or in any one solid color as candles with only one color are deemed more romantic than those that are not.

- Humorous themes. Other candles are meant to put a smile on your face and lighten the occasion. These are normally more brightly colored and the color chosen would be less somber ones like neon green, bright red or multicolored. They would also be made into humorous shapes like the frog prince, ice-cream sundae, coffee cup, teapot or even Cupid.

- Royalty themes. These are candle wedding favors that are shaped to look like carriages, crowns or tiaras. Often, candle favors like these are silver, ivory or richly colored with gold or silver flecks on them to look equally luxurious.

- Zodiac or personality themes. Candle tokens that carry the zodiac or personality themes are often color-coded to showcase the difference between each time of personality or zodiac. A more tranquil and airy personality like Aries, for instance, would most probably be candle favors that are lavender in color and scent. Other ways of color coding your candles to each personality would be to follow the color of each zodiac’s birthstone. Capricorn birthstone – turquoise – for instance, could be the color for the candle favor. These often come as tea light candles which have an appropriate scent.

Candle wedding favors also come in various holders which match their designs:

- Votives are extremely popular as candle favor casings as they match their designs perfectly in both color and design. Votives also help to cut down on the cost of actually ordering your candles in a specific shape – ordering heart-shaped candles, for example, may cost more than having normal round candles in a votive with a heart shape design on its outside. Votives can be made of ceramic or glass (clear or frosted). Frosted glass seems to be more popular as they give the illusion of being more expensive than they really are. For added beauty, these votives can be decorated with colored rhinestones or crystals with some glitter for some shimmer effect.

- Gift box sets are also popular for candle keepsakes that need to be given out in pairs. These box sets can be made into shapes that fit the wedding theme like coffee cups, soap holders, lanterns, bamboo huts or cake stands (with the candle as the cake). Just like the votive, these also cut down on your need to order specially designed candle wedding favors while allowing your guests to keep their box sets for their own candle of preference.

- Conventional candle holders are another way of encasing the candle favors. To enhance their look, the holders can be made of glass or high quality plastic. To fit your wedding theme, you can have these holders molded to specific shapes like teapots, sea shells, sailboats, heart shapes, beach pails, toasting flute or any other object that fits.

The size of candle wedding favors varies from event to event. How big or small the candle table gift is should be determined by its design and intended use. Is it supposed to be a tea light candle or a centerpiece candle? Tea light candles are naturally small and light while centerpiece candles are larger and short. Do remember as well that candle wedding favors, particularly scented ones, also tend to be more decorative than practical items – most are used as air fresheners in bathrooms and wardrobes and almost never lit.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections, Wedding Favors Tagged With: candle favors

5 Tips To Sell Your Wedding Dress Quickly And Profitably

August 24, 2009 By Angela 1 Comment

sellingdress Whether you are a bride who wants to clear out some room in the closet, or you are a retail outlet needing to unload outdated inventory, selling a wedding dress is something that can easily be done in a way that can put a little green in your pocket. All you need is some know-how in regards to where and how to sell.

Online re-sale sites such as eBay are a great resource when it comes to selling any personal item you no longer use. However, buyers are still hesitant to hop on board without much consideration. This will be especially true when the buyer is looking for a dress for her own special day. For this reason, it is important that you know every detail of the wedding dress you are selling.

Description is key; so you should give as much description as possible. List all of the special features of the dress; where it is fitted and where it drapes; what the fabric is and what it feels like; buttons, zippers, hems, and so on. If this is a wedding dress that features lace, you need to adequately describe what kind of lace it is. Lace comes in many types: chantilly, alencon, venise and battenburg are a few. While showing an image of the lace on your wedding dress can be helpful, getting the most money for the dress will occur when you can describe its value through details such as this. If you are not sure what kind of lace is on your dress, you might try to look it up on the internet or visit the bridal shop where you purchased your dress and ask them.

Be honest about the condition of the dress. Nothing is more upsetting to a buyer than to feel they have been lied to. If there are any spots or tears on the wedding dress you are selling, you need to disclose it in your listing or advertisement. It doesn’t matter how big or small the imperfection is; be honest about it and address it up front. Show a picture of it, even. You also must disclose if the dress has been worn.

Take pictures of the wedding dress you wish to sell. If possible, do so on a mannequin or a model, so the buyer can get a good idea of how the dress looks when it is on. This will allow her to envision how it may look on her. While a buyer wants to see the dress on a body, she may not want to see all of you. It is best to take pictures that show only the body, not the face. Also, your pictures will be on the internet where everyone can see, so you may not want your face to be shown.

List all measurements of the dress clearly and accurately. If you have taken measurements while the garment lies flat, state that. If you have measured the wedding dress all the way around, state the measurements that way. For instance, you can state waist as being “15 across, flat”, or “30 waist”.

When it comes to pricing the wedding dress you are selling, know that you will not get back the full price that you paid. Although it was only once, the dress has been worn and therefore is considered used; it’s that simple. A good rule of thumb when it comes to pricing a wedding dress to sell is to ask for half of what you paid for it. This is closest to the wholesale price of the dress. Remember, if you sell a wedding dress online, you will have to pay for shipping, which can range from $10-$25. Instead of trying to calculate shipping, when you don’t even know where you may ship to, it is simpler to just add about $20 to the price of the dress and offer free shipping.

Selling a wedding dress can be an experience that benefits you as well as a bride-to-be. Following these tips, you should be able to see a quick and profitable sale of your wedding dress.

Filed Under: Ideas & Tips, Wedding Dresses Tagged With: tips to sell wedding dress

How To Discover Wedding Invitations That Match Your Theme

August 24, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

A wedding has always been a joyous occasion in which friends and families come together to celebrate the joining of two lives into one. For ages, the wedding itself was the event. All weddings followed the same path, for the most part: white dress, church, the throwing of rice, etc., but recent years have brought loads of change. Today, the “traditional” church wedding is no longer the norm.

Theme weddings are taking place every weekend of the year all throughout the world. A wedding without a theme is like a bride without something blue…wait, does that belong in a theme wedding that isn’t the “Traditional” theme? In addition to going traditional, happy couples can now plan theme weddings around a favorite destination, flower, or even their pet! Theme weddings can whisk you back into a historical period of time, or into the presence of the gods themselves. It doesn’t seem to matter what interests you, a wedding theme can be created around it.

If you have chosen a theme for your wedding, it means that every part of the celebration should branch out from the tree that is your theme. There is a branch for decorations, a branch for apparel, and a branch for invitations. Finding invitations for your unique theme wedding is one of the first tasks you will tackle once your theme has been decided upon.

Where do you turn when looking for wedding invitations for your theme wedding? Most brides hit the net first. With just a few taps of the fingers, multiple companies that specialize in theme wedding invitations will appear before your eyes. Because you have chosen a theme wedding, you want unique wedding invitations. For example, if your wedding will be a beach theme, you don’t simply want to choose wedding invitations that feature a shell on them. No, you want the invitation itself to BE a shell, or at least the shape of one.

While you can find ideas on the internet for theme wedding invitations, it is also a good idea to visit a local print shop that prints invitations. You may just be surprised to find something there that suits your theme and your budget. Even if you don’t, what it will do for you is give you and idea of the types of paper used to print theme wedding invitations. Because these are invitations that you want to stand out, making sure that high quality paper is used will serve you well.

In addition to just wanting the paper to show off the true vibe of your wedding, knowing what printing techniques can be used on certain types of paper is important. You are going through the details of planning the perfect theme wedding for your friends and family to enjoy. The invitations you send out start the whole process. Take the time to look online, but also know the types of questions to ask and you will be thrilled when you view the first proof of your unique theme wedding invitations!

Filed Under: Invitations, Themes & Collections Tagged With: themed wedding invitations

12 Ideas of Hairstyles for the Elegant Bride

August 23, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

bridal updos The bride is always the most beautiful woman in any wedding event. She is the focal point of the ceremony, which is why she needs to be able to choose a hairstyle that is both beautiful and elegant at the same time.

If you are a bride, you probably know that finding a wedding hairstyle is not that easy as there are so many factors to consider. Some of these factors include shape of the face, wedding gown, theme of wedding, wedding jewelry, and the bride’s personal style. All these things affect the bride’s decision on what kind of hairstyle to don on her wedding day.

There are many variations and possibilities on wedding hairstyles that even those with short hair have many styles they can choose from. Here are 12 elegant ideas for wedding hairstyles that you can consider.

1. Classic Bun Updo

In this classic hairstyle, the hair is pulled into a neat and compact bun at the back part of the head without any hair sticking out. It can be low on the neck, on the middle part, or high on the crown of the head. This gives the traditional look that can make any bride look stunning.

2. Sophisticated French Twist

The hair is swept to the back part of the head and twisted and secured with hairpins. This type of hairstyle speaks of beauty, elegance and timelessness, making this one of the most popular choices on wedding hairstyles.

3. Playful Braids

French braids, twisted braids, or large braids—whatever type of braids you choose and whether you form it into a bun or hang it loosely from your head, the end result is the same. You will get an elegant and yet playful look that many brides want to go for.

4. Side Swept Hair

In this type of wedding hairstyle, the hair is neatly swept to one side to form a roll or bun.

5. Curly Long Locks

Long hair curled and hung loosely on the shoulders of the bride look elegant and sexy.

6. Bun with Accessories

Pulling the hair into a perfect bun and topping the crown with a tiara or securing the bun with a flower is another great hairstyle idea to consider.

7. Combed Short Hair

Who said, brides could only sport long hair? Short hair neatly combed can look just as elegant and beautiful. It is also practical and easy to fix.

8. Sexy Loose Large Waves

Loose large waves look stunning and sexy. Brides with this type of hairstyle appear confident and eye-catching.

9. Half Updo

Classy and elegant, the half updo has half of the hair pulled up into a bun at the back of the head while the lower half is curled or hung loosely on the shoulders.

10. Ballet Bun with Curly Side Strands

A compact bun with curly strands on the side of the face is both elegant and exciting.

11. Simple Ponytail

For simple brides who do not like the fussiness of elaborate hairstyles can go for simple but sophisticated ponytails.

12. Bun or Ponytail with Wispy Bangs

Modern but at the same time elegant, a bun or ponytail with wispy bangs in the perfect choice for trendy and chic brides.

With the right choice on wedding hairstyle, the bride can truly exude sophistication and exquisiteness that will amaze the guests and wow the groom.

Filed Under: Bridal Hair, Fashion, Hairstyles, Ideas & Tips

How to Become a Bridezilla

August 23, 2009 By Ingrid Leave a Comment

bridalstress When faced with the love of a lifetime on bended knee before her, every woman is at her sweetest, most sincere self. But very soon, as the planning get under way, the time comes when a bride-to-be has the choice to remain calm and serene or to become frantic and demanding. Think this couldn’t happen? Were it not something that is actually commonplace, we would not be treated to the entertainment of the hit TV series “Bridezilla”.

Just what does it mean to be a Bridezilla? According to Wikepedia, it is simply a generic term for a difficult bride. If you have never seen the show Bridezillas, you may have a difficult time imagining just how difficult a blushing bride can be. Most of us couldn’t see ourselves doing some of the horrific things brides featured on Bridezillas do, but there may just as many who think filling the shoes of a Bridezilla may be exciting and exhilarating. So let’s look at how you can become a Bridezilla and put your friends and family through an experience they will certainly never forget.

• Make the entire wedding all about you. YOU are the bride, after all, and therefore entitled to special treatment from the day of your engagement to the day you say “I Do”. So why should anyone, including the groom, the bridesmaid, even your mother, have any input whatsoever? Do not allow opinions from the groom regarding the wedding cake, the honeymoon, or the tux he will wear. Nobody will notice him anyway.

• Master the tantrum. If you do not have the ability to rival a two year old with your own tantrum, then you are not ready to be a Bridezilla. Tantrum throwing is the way a Bridezilla gets what she wants. Be louder than everyone else in the room and you will be heard. Waive your hands around at the same time and you’re sure to be the center of attention – a true Bridezilla treat.

• Spend time each and every day, sometimes multiple time a day, checking your registry to see what has been purchased. And when you see the high dollar items hanging around the list too long, consider sending out an email to all of your friends and family reminding them that you are entitled to receive everything you have registered for. Perhaps telling them that any gift MUST be purchased off the registry will qualify you as a Bridezilla.

• Dictate to everyone involved in the wedding precisely how you want things done. This includes demanding specific grooming from your bridal party as well as specifying to the professionals you have hired to handle your special day exactly how to do their jobs. I mean, just because they are professionals who do this all the time doesn’t mean they really know what they are doing any better than you do, right?

In the end, a Bridezilla can lurk behind the bright eyes of any bride-to-be. The types of behaviors that put you into Bridezilla category are far too numerous to list in one short article, but could make up a book the size of an Encyclopedia. If you really want to seek Bridezilla status, it isn’t very difficult. Just keep in mind that the wedding you ruin will be your own.

Filed Under: Ideas & Tips Tagged With: bridezillas

The Lazy Groom’s Survival Guide

August 23, 2009 By Lisa Leave a Comment

So you have found your dream woman and asked for her hand in marriage. While the two of you are no doubt floating in the clouds; as you step over stacks of bridal magazines strategically placed in every room, you may be wondering what in the world you have gotten yourself into in regards to planning. All the details of the wedding itself are small beans to most grooms, especially the lazy groom.

Does this mean that you don’t care about your wedding, or about your bride? Absolutely not. It simply means that you have the ability to go with the flow and enjoy the day for what it represents, not who it impresses. There are ways that a lazy groom can make it to the alter unscathed, and with a happy bride at his side. We will look at just how you can do that here.

Luckily, bridal magazines, books and the internet seem to pay great attention to the wedding duties of just about everyone but the groom himself. It’s as if the groom, an integral part of this party, is merely along for the ride. He shows up, looking dapper, on wedding day and they live happily ever after. It just doesn’t get any easier than this!

However, there can be a glitch when the bride, or one of her trusted bridesmaids, comes up with the idea that the groom would like to miss the big game to go shopping for invitations or taste cake. One could wonder if women really think men want to do these things, or if they only ask their groom out of guilt for leaving him at home while she handles all of the preparations with her girlfriends.

Here is the one big way the lazy groom can ensure that his time is not eaten up with mundane tasks during the wedding planning stage. Continue to woo your bride-to-be. That’s right. When she feels loved and pampered, you will find you are easily released from many duties that you may otherwise get roped into.

The bride has much on her plate, and she does need to know that you care. Turn off the TV long enough to listen to your beloved after a long day of shopping, talking and planning. Support her every decision, and do all that you can to make sure she is not getting stressed out; otherwise, you may wind up with a Bridezilla on your hands.

The one thing you need to remember is to be interested. While you may not desire to walk the entire wedding district of your town, you can show interest by listening to your bride. Don’t say “just tell me when and where to show up’. Don’t EVER say “I don’t care” when asked what you think of an idea or plan. Find constructive ways to give some amount of input and make your bride feel supported. Keep her happy, and you’ll make it through. Comedian Jeff Allen has it right: “Happy Wife, Happy Life!”

Filed Under: Ideas & Tips Tagged With: grooms wedding planning guide

A Beginner’s Guide to Caribbean Destination Weddings

August 22, 2009 By Nina 1 Comment

wedding location Many a happy couple dream of tying the knot in a far-away Caribbean destination; hence the reason for the term “Caribbean destination wedding” in the first place. Just a decade or so ago, the practice of transporting an entire wedding to a location other than the local church was unheard of; but in today’s society of bigger and better, you can’t go wrong with such an exotic wedding day.

Planning any wedding can be a monumental task, let alone planning a wedding on a Caribbean island. However, with a little research and a lot of organizing, the bride and groom can choose from a multitude of locations where the sand will be warm under their feet and the ocean breeze will caress their first kiss as husband and wife.

One of the first things to know about Caribbean destination weddings is that there are multiple locations to choose from. The Caribbean consists of over a dozen islands surrounding the Caribbean Sea. Choices for wedding locations abound with these numbers. There is the island of Jamaica, which is a popular choice. There is also the Bahamas, Puerto Rico and The Cayman Islands.

With so many choices, what might you want to consider when planning a Caribbean destination wedding?

Work with professionals. Especially because your destination is far from home, working with a professional coordinator is an essential part of your wedding going off without a hitch. Many Caribbean destination weddings are planned through knowledgeable coordinators associated with major resorts. It takes only a bit of homework to find one you trust.

Send invites early. Because of the travel involved, guests will need to take some time away from work, home and family responsibilities to attend your nuptials. In order to ensure you’ve given enough time for your guests to plan, sending out a save the date card is recommended. Typical invitations go out 4 to 6 weeks before the event; therefore, save the dates should go out well before then.

Consider the climate. If you are planning a Caribbean destination wedding, it is wise to know the climate during the time of year, and time of day, you plan to wed. In some areas, the sun can beat down quite hot; you wouldn’t want to be stuck without some shade for you and your guests if you plan a daytime wedding.

Decide what you will pay for. Oftentimes, guests of a Caribbean destination wedding will cover their own travel fares. However, it is a nice gesture on your part to make arrangements in terms of accommodations and flights to the extent of finding good packages. Work with a hotel in your Caribbean location to set aside special rates for your guests, and include that information in your invitations. Guests will appreciate it.

Make sure you know the marriage laws of the island you will be married on. This is very important, as you don’t want to go through all that planning just to find out our marriage isn’t legal. Working through a coordinator, you will likely be guided through the process well, but knowing that all islands do not have the same marriage laws will prompt you to be aware and to ask questions on this topic.

A Caribbean destination wedding can be an affair you will remember forever. Getting through red tape is a cinch when you are prepared with the right questions and carry the right tools. Enjoy!

Source: Nina Lampe is a blogger for MyBeachFavors.com and she loves all things weddings, blogging, article writing, talking with brides and helping them prepare their wedding.

Filed Under: Destination Weddings, Ideas & Tips Tagged With: Caribbean Beaches, Destination Weddings

Why You Need Wedding Reception Favors

August 19, 2009 By Ingrid Leave a Comment

Wedding reception favors are tokens given by the bride and groom to their guests to express gratitude. Your guests look forward to receiving these presents to remember your special day.

With so many details to consider, couples planning a wedding often wonder why they need to get gifts for their guests. For centuries, wedding reception favors have been distributed to guests to thank them for sharing this special day. Since the sixteenth century, couples have given tthem to express their appreciation. Your guests will expect these little tokens when they arrive. If your guests did not receive favors, you are likely to be the talk of the town – and not in a good way.

Four centuries ago, wedding reception favors were expensive gifts given by wealthy European brides and grooms. Within a few decades, everyday people were giving affordable or homemade presents. This tradition continues today with many more options to be available.

Modern couples have a variety of options including:

- personalized reception favors with customized details such as names, the wedding dates and special sentiments;

- candle favors to bring light and love home with your guests when the reception ends;

- unique favors for couples who dare to be different and aren’t afraid to show it;

- place card holders that do double duty as place card holders to guide guests to their seats and attractive wedding favors to take home after the party;

- themed gifts to match the theme of your big day such as seasonal or cultural; and

- favor boxes and bags so any small tokens can be used and dressed up.

Personalized tokens are customized so your guests never forget where they received them. These gifts may be personalized with names, dates or monograms. Show off your new monogram with a monogrammed votive candle in its own sheer organza bag. Give gourmet goodies to your guests with the perfect blend elegant personalized coffee kits that include a heart shaped scoop. Make shot glass favors using personalized shot glass votive holders, tea lights, Jordan almonds, tulle and ribbons. Order personalized ribbons to customize every aspect of your wedding day for just pennies.

Combine personalized favors with candles when you give your guests personalized travel candles as a keepsake of your special day. Guests will find a sweet treats glass sundae candle in an ice cream parlor gift box absolutely irresistible. Set sail frosted sailboat tea light candle holders are perfect for nautical nuptials. A snowflake gel candle is the ideal reception gift at a winter wedding. Your guests will love receiving a double happiness keepsake candle at an Oriental themed wedding.

Be unique when you choose these presents. If you feel lucky in love, don’t be afraid to show it with translucent playing card bottle stoppers. Your guests will talk for weeks about margarita gel glass candles in their own tropical tiki hut gift boxes. Whimsical mister and misses swizzle sticks add a fun-loving touch to your tables.

Place card holders guide guests to their seats and become treasured keepsakes after the event. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised by sweet surprise cupcake tea lights and place card holders with matching place cards. A place in my heart bud vase and place card holder looks lovely on your reception tables and on your guests’ tables at home.

Themed wedding reception favors match the chosen theme of your day. Love is blooming wildflower seed favors are wonderful gifts for outdoor garden weddings or spring ceremonies. Celebrate fall weddings with perfect pair pear candles. Your guests bring the beach home after a waterfront wedding with flip flop luggage tags in their own beach themed gift box. Winter weddings are memorialized forever with snowflake place card holder ornaments. No matter what your chosen theme, there are delightful themed wedding reception favors to match.

Create your own affordable little table gifts with candies, Jordan almonds and decorative packaging such as palm tree favor boxes at a beach wedding. Be creative and thoughtful when you choose tokens of appreciation because they express gratitude to your guests and become ongoing remembrances of your special day.

Source: This article was submitted by TheBridalCoach.ca, the leading online membership site for wedding planning, specializing in wedding budget and wedding locations.

Filed Under: Wedding Favors Tagged With: wedding reception favors

Wedding Day Jewelry For The Bride And Groom

August 9, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Wedding day jewelry is now for the bride and groom. Wearing attractive wedding day jewelry makes both of you feel more attractive and looks elegant in all your photos and videos.

Your wedding rings are essential wedding day jewelry. During the wedding ceremony, both of you exchange rings when you vow to share your lives together. The exchange of rings is a dramatic, emotional moment. Beautiful wedding rings presented on a luxurious ring pillow add to this wonderful experience.

Wedding rings may include a variety of precious or semi-precious stones but diamonds and cubic zirconia are the most popular choices. Men are opting for wedding rings with diamonds more recently because they can wear them with business suits or when they go out to dinner with their new wife. Durable, handsome choices for men who work with their hands are titanium wedding bands. Other metals used to create wedding rings include gold, gold-plated, platinum and sterling silver.

Brides may choose wedding rings to match the groom or their engagement ring. Wedding rings should suit the size and style of the bride herself. Some brides want a huge, glittering diamond while others prefer a dainty ring with smaller stones. Either way, the wedding ring should be the bride’s preference because she will wear it everywhere.

Grooms may decide to wear other sparkling wedding day jewelry to offset their suit or tuxedo. An eye-catching tie clip and bold cuff links bring a touch of class to the groom’s outfit. Add a gold watch or a pocket watch for a completely dapper groom.

The bride is the center of attention so her jewelry should match her gown, shoes, hairstyle and personal style. You will feel most comfortable wearing wedding day jewelry that reflects your personal preferences. You shop carefully for your dress, shoes, purse and accessories. Jewelry is the ultimate accessory to polish off your look and create a feeling of glamor all around you.

Bridal jewelry often features pearls and diamonds to match the traditional white, ivory or cream-colored dress. Modern brides are adding color to their wedding gown and wedding day jewelry with bold accents including red ruby, blue sapphire and black onyx. Simulated stones are an excellent way to add luxury to your wedding day without breaking your budget. You may even decide to exchange wedding day jewelry as your keepsake gifts to each other.

The bride’s wedding day jewelry may also be a dowry from her family, depending on her culture and background. Families pass down certain wedding day jewelry from generation to generations including elegant necklaces, bracelets, earrings, toe rings and nose rings. A tiara is a luxurious finishing touch to the bride’s jewelry collection. From dramatic to simple, a tiara shows off that you are a classy bride.

Wedding day jewelry is not just for the bride and groom. Your wedding party will appreciate jewelry as a gift. The groom can give his attendants cuff links, tie clips or watches. A bride can choose a variety of different jewelry pieces to thank her maid of honor and bridesmaids.

When blended families are brought together, often special ceremonies are performed within the wedding ceremony to celebrate the union. Children like to feel reassured they are part of a new family unit after the wedding. A family pin represents a new branch to the family tree that will grow in love.

The wedding officiant formally addresses the children as his presents them with this special jewelry. The leaves of the family pin represent the father, mother and children. All the people are necessary for the family tree to grow and flourish, making it a sign of love and hope for everyone.

The perfect wedding day jewelry makes the occasion magnificently memorable.

Filed Under: Jewelry Tagged With: Bridal Jewelry

For The Smaller Items On Your Wedding Day

August 9, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Satin clutches are the perfect choice for you and your wedding attendants to carry down the aisle or to the wedding reception. They are usually available in a wide range of colors to match all of your bridesmaids’ dresses and will look elegant rather than distracting.

Choose sating clutches with snap openings to make them easier to access. This is particularly useful if you are planning to wear gloves because a zipper pull may be difficult to hold onto or tear at your gloves.

Simple evening bags are another great choice for your bridal purses. These elegant bags of simple design will keep all your little items close at hand, such as lipstick, compact, brush, glasses, or even your cell phone. These are particularly nice for the mother of the bride to carry because of their sophisticated look and feel.

Small handled bags are also appropriate for you and your wedding party because they are easy to carry. Stick with smaller sized bags that are made of fabric and not of distracting colors. You might even want to choose some vintage style handbags that will add to the romantic feel of the day or night.

Drawstring bags make great bridal purses because they are small, hold many small items securely inside, and can even be attached to your dress with the looped drawstrings if you choose. These also double as money collection bags during the bride’s dance where male guests place money in the bag in exchange for a spin on the dance floor.

All of these bridal purses are ideal for your wedding no matter what style of wedding you are going to have. They also make the perfect bridesmaid and mother-in-law gifts because they will not only come in handy on the wedding day, they will also be a useful item for a fun evening out or other formal affairs.

Filed Under: Bridal Accessories, Purses Tagged With: bridal purses

Bridal veils … the finishing touch to a bridal ensemble

August 9, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Bridal veils can be worn on top of the head towards your face or either behind the head over a bun or under a bun. A veil can be adorned with Swarovski crystals, pearls, beading or lace.

The veils come in different shades like white, diamond white or ivory, sparkle white, sparkle ivory, sparkle diamond white, glimmer, silver, pink, beige and gold. A white veil goes well with the traditional wedding gown. Diamond white which is also called Silk White or Candlelight veils goes well with natural silk gowns. Ivory also called cream would go beautifully with an ivory bridal gown.

The edging or trimming could have a simple raw edge or sleek piping for a contemporary look. It can also boast of elegant beading, classic satin edging, romantic ribbon accents or lace details. So, it should accentuate and be proportional to the dress and not take away from its details.

Veils take on a shape of their own from oval to square with different types and length of veils. The ideal veil should be cut just above or below any focal point on your dress. A standard cut is where the corners are cut off, so the edges of a standard cut start up by your face.

An Angel cut is so that the sides start higher on the side of the veil, “cascading” down. A circular cut is just a big circle. It will become a 2 tier veil when it is folded in half. It is gathered at the fold and sewn to a comb. Drop cut, is just like a circular cut, but without any gather and is attached to the hair with a hat pin or a small comb. An Oval cut is usually a one tier veil with the comb sewn at one end of the veil with or without gather and this is the shape of a mantilla veil. A Bubble cut is where the tip of the veil (behind the comb “is puffier”) which makes the bottom of the veil comes in towards the body a little more.

A blusher comes in lengths that land below the lips. They are often square, while short or elbow length veils are typically oval. It is usually combined with other lengths of veil and can be used for formal and semi-formal weddings. It shouldn’t be longer than 34 inches for they will get entangled with your flowers and will be difficult to lift it during the wedding ceremony.

A birdcage veil lands below the eyes in a tighter look, perfect for the bride who desires to keep the veil on all night. The Bandeau style is a very elegant French tulle veil. Made of French netting, sit close to the face, it will attach at the sides of the head with two different pressure clips or combs. You can play around with this little veil by having the rose on either ear, set at an angle.

Elbow length usually ranges from 25″ to 36″, with 25″being the most common length, will compliment shorter gowns which will be perfect to show off any detailing at the waist of the gown. It compliments best a dress with a full skirt with the veil falling just below a low back but above the start of the skirt. Fingertip length, as the name implies, falls right at the fingertips of the bride and can be worn for formal and semi-formal weddings. This type typically ranges from 36″ to 50″, depending on your height, build, etc. the length will vary. It is normally worn with any gown longer than knee length.

If you want to show off lavish details on the back of your wedding gown then this is the right length. Knee length is usually 45″ long. Waltz length is usually 54″ to 60″ and is also sometimes called a Ballerina or Walking veil, where the bottom should land somewhere between your calves and just above the ankles. The Chapel length ranges from 60″ to 90″ where it must just touches the floor. Cathedral length are exclusively worn for cathedral length gowns and it’s very much back in style.

It is for formal weddings where the veil is dramatic, as it will extend right onto the floor trailing after the bride with at least a few inches past the train. Common lengths are 108″ or 120″ long. The Regal lengths are the longest of all veils. It can be as long as 144″ or longer. When choosing a veil, make sure that the veil ends right at the waistline if you have a sharply defined waistline. Attaching a Velcro or snaps to the tiara makes it easy to remove the veil during reception. Lastly, to put the finishing touch of a bridal veil would be a tiara or any suitable headpiece.

Filed Under: Bridal Accessories, Veils Tagged With: bridal veils

Make It A Day To Remember With A Vegas Theme

August 7, 2009 By Lisa Leave a Comment

One way to throw a party everyone will remember is to capture the allure, flash and ridiculous of a Vegas Theme Wedding. Ideally, you can do it by actually going to “Sin City,” but since most of us cannot, bringing Vegas Theme Weddings to you is the next best thing. While you do not want your wedding to mirror the theme “What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas” you do want to make your wedding “A Night to Remember” and luckily, with Vegas, that is easy.

Your options for a Vegas theme are limitless and up to your own preferences and boldness. You can literally go for the whole enchilada replete with an Elvis impersonator to take the bride down the aisle and a reception set up like a casino with games of chance throughout or you can make it more subtle by incorporating parts of each event to commemorate Vegas. This can be accomplished by breaking up your events between traditional and Vegas themes.

For instance, one way you can commemorate a Vegas theme is to print your invitations on paper poker chips that announce the date and the theme. You also can give guests “Jackpot” Mini Stickers or give gifts Lucky in Love party favors that ask guests to “try your luck in love.” Another suggestion is to give younger guests (and older guests with a sweet tooth) a Mini Slot Machine that dispenses gumballs. One more option is to give each guest a packet of Heart Shaped Playing Cards.

Your ceremony can also take on a Vegas theme, but not set the bar for friendly tackiness. To accomplish this, you can ask guest speakers to incorporate a “jackpot” topic theme play some of Elvis’ music at some point in the ceremony. Of course, you also can go all the way and hire a JP to marry you (they do more than just City Hall or shotgun weddings) or really get into it and have the King give the Bride away (even if the King is just Dad in a wig.) Vegas is so diverse that the options are limitless and up to your imagination as to how much of a Vegas theme wedding you want to incorporate.

The colors you choose for your wedding party, decorations and collections can create a Vegas feel. Incorporating a Flower of Love in Romantic Red Collection exudes the combination of Vegas flash and passion. You also can incorporate colors that exude Vegas, such as chrome highlights, black edging and silver and gold wedding accessories.

If you do have a cocktail hour, handing out playing card drink vouchers (if your bar is not “open”) is a great way to get your guests in the mood as well as emphasize your theme. At the reception, setting up “stations” that feature popular casino games is also a well received idea. If you are worried about the reception devolving into “poker night” or “casino night” manage the stations so that they are only open during particular time periods. You also can force guests to mingle by having time periods for play where guests then shift to another game or station.

Other suggestions to make your Vegas Theme Wedding a success is to hire a DJ that is familiar with Vegas music. This will make sure you have a good mix of Vegas-style music with more “wedding traditional” fare. You also can provide all guests with a Bride and Groom Stir Stick or Pick with every beverage they order. Giving your wedding party Card Suit Key Chains to commemorate the day is a great way to remind those closest to you of your day and the big event.

The key is to capture the essence of Vegas, but not have the theme obscure the magic of the day. How you plan your Vegas Theme Wedding is completely up to your own preferences and how much of the Vegas feel you want to incorporate. With some people, a full on Vegas spectacle is the only way to go. If, however, you are not so bold as to have Elvis officiate the ceremony, there are virtually limitless options to make sure that your theme sticks in the mind of every guest.

If you haven’t seen our huge selection of favors, click on Las Vegas themed wedding favors and it will bring you there.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections Tagged With: Las Vegas wedding theme

The Meaning Of Butterflies And The Theme

August 7, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Butterfly wedding themes show everyone how proud you both are to be on the wings of love. From the flower girl basket to the garter set, you can include beautiful butterflies in every aspect of your wedding day for a fantasy come to life. Add elegance to your special day by using silver butterflies with tiny crystals on all your wedding accessories.

The Meaning of Butterflies

Butterflies stand for love and romance in many areas of the world. For this reason, couples all over the globe choose butterfly wedding themes. In China, butterflies represent long life or a young man in love. Many Japanese families feature butterflies in their family crest design because they represent young maidens and marital happiness. Greek mythology links butterflies to the souls of humans.

This spiritual belief is shared by one of the Russian dialects. An old Irish saying refers to butterflies being souls. In a small town in Mexico, people view Monarch butterfly migration as the souls of the deceased returning and have a holiday to celebrate it. Butterflies also represent the wonder of metamorphosis and everlasting wisdom.

Releasing Butterflies

Some couples release birds or doves at their wedding. Others decide to release butterflies after they exchange their vows. Many couples feel their butterfly wedding themes are not complete without live butterflies. If you intend to release butterflies, it must be done during the sunlight, as they do not fly in the dark. It should be at least 55 degrees and sunny to ensure your butterflies capture the spirit of the day. For this reason, couples often combine a garden wedding with butterfly themes.

One of the focal points during a butterfly themed wedding with garden influences is the flower girl. The fabulous flower girl holds flowers for the bride, adding an adorable touch to the wedding ceremony. Everyone will be watching the flower girl and a flower girl basket with crystallized butterflies adds to the theme of the day. Whether your wedding is blue, green, pink or lavender, you can combine fancy butterflies with your favorite color for a fun, eye-catching flower girl basket.

Whether a ring bearer or the best man holds the rings, they are an essential part of the wedding ceremony. A square ring pillow featuring your butterfly theme is a lasting keepsake of the moment you exchanged rings and said, “I do”. Celebrate your eternal love by using a ring pillow with a fancy butterfly design. When you watch the videos of your wedding, a butterfly ring pillow make your rings stand out before you even put them on one another’s fingers.

No wedding is complete without guest books. All the guests have an opportunity to sign the book and make a spontaneous, personalized statement to the bride and groom. After the wedding, the bride and groom can read the guest book several times to laugh over the sentiments everyone shared. A guest book is also a key element to successfully writing all your thank-you notes for the wedding gifts. Add to the elegance of your butterfly wedding themes by using a satin wrapped pen set and traditional guest book to capture your guests’ statements.

Whom Will Get Married Next?

Several traditional ceremonies are included in almost every wedding. Everyone looks forward to the introduction of the bride and groom, the cake cutting ceremony and the throwing the garter and flowers. During the garter throw, all the single men gather to catch the bride’s garter. Seductive or funny music is played and the groom slides the garter down the bride’s leg then throws it out to all the single men.

The single man who catches the garter is believed to be the next man to get married. Using a garter set with sparkling butterflies captures the spirit of your special day. The photos of the bride wearing a butterfly garter are a perfect touch to the butterfly wedding themes of the day.

Butterfly wedding themes express the beauty of eternal love and commitment. Adding crystal butterflies to all your wedding accessories reflects the wisdom of your decision to share your lives together forever.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections Tagged With: butterfly wedding theme

A Day Fit for a Princess Bride & Prince Charming

August 7, 2009 By Jen 1 Comment

Every little girl, from the time she is old enough to talk, walk and get into her mother’s lipstick wants a fairy wedding theme – a fairytale marriage to Prince Charming, and a day that is fit for a princess bride. Fairy wedding themes and Cinderella theme weddings are still as popular today as they were in the 1950`s. The world may now move at breakneck speed, and we may be a society of cell phones, PDA’s and laptop computers… but when it comes to getting married, modern girls are still old fashioned at heart.

A fairy wedding theme is a wonderful way to relive your childhood or play dress up princess one last time before becoming a married woman, settling down into the real world and making a life with her new husband. It is an unabashed opportunity to be completely girly for an entire day and have everyone cheering you on! Deep down inside, don’t we all want a fairy wedding theme.

Inside, don’t we all have a young heart that dreams of Cinderella theme weddings, complete with glass slippers, mice ushers and a pumpkin chariot. OK, so you don’t have mouse friends who can be transformed into handsome wedding groomsmen by our fairy godmother. And no, chances are pretty good that you will not be driven to the church in a golden chariot that was once a pumpkin! However, with the right planning you can put together the perfect fairy wedding theme.

For the bride, it begins with a Cinderella style silk or satin wedding gown in pure white color. To achieve the princess look, consider white satin opera length gloves, or a sparkling tiara headpiece. Bridal jewelry can also go a long way to achieve the perfect Cinderella bride look. The fairy tale part comes from the starry look in the bride’s eyes as she is walking down the aisle… and that is something you just cannot buy!

At your wedding ceremony, pure white satin fairy tale dreams can come true, and they begin with wedding décor and accessories such as a flower girl basket, bride garter, ring bearer pillow, and a happily ever after personalized unity candle. Lots of snowy white tulle lining the procession aisle, big oversized pew bows also in white and twinkling fairy light garlands all help to achieve Cinderella theme weddings.

Carry the fairy wedding theme over to your wedding reception with a fairy princess castle cake topper, a Cinderella style guest book and pen set, and a dreamy crystal cake serving set. Cinderella slipper key rings or wedding carriage candles would make ideal favor gifts for your wedding guests.

What goes well with the purity of white that is necessary to pull off your fairy wedding theme. You can use an accent color such as garnet red, sage green, pale pink or blue, or a mellow yellow. Patterns generally are not suitable for this style of wedding theme so stay clear of floral chintz patterns or bright colors. When you are shopping, if the color doesn’t immediately say soft, dreamy or elegant to you – put it back.

Brash, dark and brassy have no place in a fairy theme wedding. Look for place card holders that are made of silver or white metal; candlesticks and centerpieces that are made of cut crystal, gleaming diamonds and blown glass. Keep all of the lighting white (no color) and use many small votive candles in demure low lying candle holders. If you are having your wedding or reception outdoors, wedding luminaries are perfectly suited to Cinderella theme weddings.

Flowers ideal for a fairy theme wedding include white calla lilies, tulips, and roses. Stay away from more casual flowers such as Shasta or Gerbera daisies – these are not really appropriate for a fairy wedding. Your floral arrangements can be all white in color which is totally stunning or you can use this opportunity to include your wedding accent color we talked about earlier.

In most cases, a fairy theme wedding is more formal than casual and tends to rely on the stunning elegance of white rather than infusing too much color into the ceremony décor or reception accessories. However, if you find you need some color, use it on your gift and cake serving tables. This way the color you want is included without overpowering any Cinderella wedding theme you may be trying hard to accomplish.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections Tagged With: cinderella wedding theme, fairytale wedding theme

A Country Theme Wedding To Escape The Drum Beat Of City Life

August 7, 2009 By Ingrid Leave a Comment

A country theme wedding allows people to express their interests and perceptions in a relaxed setting. What “country” means exactly, is as diverse as the people who have opinions. For most people, however, at the very least, “the country” means a simpler life that appreciates nature, natural beauty and a quiet tranquility not found often in big cities or even towns.

It is true that country means different things to different people. To some, country is a way to escape the drum beat of city life and shed the grit and dirt of urbanity. To others the country is where quaint locals sell local wares to unsuspecting tourists and everyone is friendly and accommodating. Still to others, “country” means lazy summer days around a swimming hole, fishing and an catching lightening bugs. To a select few, country is a way of life and all other forms of living seem foreign.

This is true of geography as well. What New York City residents consider the country is very different than what people from Memphis consider the country and that is very different than what people in the American West consider country. Depending on where you live or were raised, country can mean different things almost to a person.

New Yorkers, for instance, might consider the Adirondacks to be “country,” while southerners or westerners might consider the Adirondacks to be crowded. Westerners might consider rodeo and open ranges indispensable to the country, while in southerners, country might evoke cotton fields and catfish fries. Country is what people consider it and that makes a country theme wedding fun and challenging.

If your idea of country is winding dirt roads, isolated farms and pasture land rife with dairy cows, then you might want to consider miniature metal watering pails as a decoration or favor container. Tin sunflowers in yellow enhance any decoration, favor or centerpiece. Miniature metal country milking pails with can be filled with candies or flowers to suit your style.

If a Western theme is more your idea of country, then the romantic vintage western traditional guest book will set the stage for your guests. A “Sweet Western Embrace” Cake Topper will set the theme for your wedding cake and reception. The romantic vintage western collection merges suede with gold and silver horseshoes that speak of country and good luck.

Flowers might be the way you associate with country and in doing so, you might want to incorporate butterfly dreams flower girl baskets or glass flower holders to appoint your reception tables. Adding fresh flowers and ferns is one way to evoke a country setting and they can be used throughout your events. Felt Flowers with diamonette centers allow you to inject your gifts with decorations that commemorate your version of what makes country.

Country food is also popular in country theme weddings and the selections are multiple, depending on the overall formality of the get together. Barbeque is always popular as is corn on the cob and both speak country, but they might not be appropriate for formal receptions as they are messy. Other country foods such as fruit pies, garden salads, steak and fish are also popular and if done right, can speak to country as well as any other food.

Outdoor weddings and/or receptions are ideal settings for a country theme. Canopies and tents give a sense of country as well as protect guest from the elements. No country wedding theme in the summer is complete without at least the threat of rain or a thunderstorm and these allow guests to take refuge should the weather turn temporarily problematic. Make sure if you hold your wedding or reception outdoors to allow for ample seating and shade, especially if the day is hot. A good idea is to have chilled water available throughout the day to ward off over-heating or dehydration.

Country theme Weddings can take on just about any form and fit. They also can be thrown in any setting, including more urban or suburban settings. The idea of a country theme wedding is to give guests a sense of peace and country tranquility, while celebrating what you envision the country is all about.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections Tagged With: country wedding theme

All Cake Toppers Are Not Created Equal

August 7, 2009 By Ingrid Leave a Comment

Choosing the perfect wedding cake topper is something that should represent who you really are as a couple. It should express both of your personalities and set the tone for the reception. This might mean choosing between traditional, funny, or unique tops, so consider some of the following before you just buy the first one that you find.

Traditional cake toppers are usually romantic and formal in style. The bride will be in her traditional white wedding gown and the groom will be in his best black suit or tuxedo. The figures are usually posed in a loving embrace, preparing to kiss, or taking their first spin on the dance floor.

These decorations are appropriate for any type of wedding, from large and small to formal and relaxed, but they express a romantic feel and elegance that are as old as the tradition of wedding ceremonies themselves.

For the couple with a sense of humor, funny cake toppers might be just what you’re looking for to add a lighthearted touch and sense of humor to the start of your long and happy life together.

The funny ones are very popular today because they remind you that marriage should be fun, unpredictable, and filled with laughter. Your true personalities can come out when you choose a funny topper and there are many different kinds to choose from that can express your true personalities.

Probably the most popular style of comical cake toppers is the reluctant groom theme. Grooms are notorious for dragging their feet to the altar and this can be expressed in a comical and lighthearted manner on the top of your wedding cake. Most of these toppers show the bride dragging her reluctant groom to the altar in a variety of poses.

Another humorous theme is the personality style. Bride cake toppers can be shown talking on their cell phones or shopping while the groom toppers can be shown playing golf, hockey, soccer, or doing any number of other activities. You might even want to surprise your groom with one of these humorous personality trait cake tops.

Of course, you may not want to go with the typical one and might be drawn towards a symbol of your undying love instead. Fortunately there are many different kinds of unique and non-traditional bride and groom cake toppers to choose from. For an Asian theme, you might want to go with one that has a traditional symbol for love or happiness.

These cake toppers are both elegant and beautiful and definitely not what you might expect to see on top of the traditional wedding cake. For an Irish wedding, you can choose a traditional Celtic knot or Claddaugh ring for your cake instead. These symbols beautifully express the traditional Irish wedding blessing of wishing you friendship and love in your long life together as a married couple.

For the ultimate expression of a fairytale princess bride wedding, you will definitely want to go with a beautiful white castle wedding cake topper. As everyone knows, it’s all about the bride on her wedding day and what better way to embrace this fairytale ending than with a giant enchanted castle on top of your cake? On the other hand, you might be more drawn to a minimalist style topper with a beautiful and unique look.

This can be created with two simple monogrammed initials sitting on top of your wedding cake. Placing the first letter of each of your names expresses the union of your two souls in a beautiful and simple way. You might also want to consider placing the first letter of your newly acquired last name as a symbol of your unity.

Filed Under: Themes & Collections Tagged With: Wedding Cake Toppers

Celebrate Your Special Day On A Cruise Ship

August 4, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

There are two different ways to make your wedding memorable via a cruise ship wedding theme. The first is to have a wedding that utilizes cruise ship oriented favors, collections, decorations and colors. The second is to actually hold your wedding on a cruise ship and give your guests, family and friends the opportunity to enjoy your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in one. This article covers both options.

Not everyone wants to or can afford to book a cruise for the entire occasion. Additionally, not every guest can afford to or would even want to spend the money to travel on a cruise ship, essentially taking a vacation as the new Bride and Groom spend their first few days of married life. To pay for the entire guest list out-of-pocket can also be very pricey. For those in this situation, giving your wedding a cruise ship wedding theme is one way to capture the flavor and fun of a cruise without breaking the bank or potentially having desired guests opt out of the event.

A cruise ship theme can be replicated in a variety of ways. One is to incorporate a nautical theme for decorations, favors and any events. You can have Metal Boats offering mints to guests on tables that evoke a nautical or “sea” like feel or you can give your guests Boat Flag Stickers, Miniature Folding Beach Chairs or Boat Wheel Favor / Place Cards. The goal of this is to create the feel of the sea or sea going excursions, even if you are landlocked or dockside.

Another option, if you live near a larger lake, river or the ocean is to book a boat cruise for your day that specializes in day cruises or is even moored to a dock, but still captures the feeling and allure of boats and the sea. In some cases, larger boats offer day and casino cruises that offer plenty for guests to do to entertain themselves during the time surrounding the wedding, cocktail hour or reception. These typically will run in four to six hour increments or overnight.

Since the main goal is to utilize the fun and tranquility of a cruise ship wedding theme, the key is to make sure that all decorations are light, airy and resemble the sea. A Seaside Allure Collection will give your events the look and feel of an ocean related wedding and by using other associated articles, you can create that cruise ship feel without actually having to set foot on a cruise ship. Your guests will appreciate the theme and effort, but do not have to invest a lot of time and money to enjoy your day, but will still experience a wonderful theme.

Actually holding your wedding on a cruse ship is another increasingly popular option. Luxury cruise ships are fun and exciting and give your guests the option of spending just the ceremony and reception or your entire honeymoon with you in pre-determined ports of call. Weddings and receptions are held in the “home port” and couples have the option of holding the ceremony onboard the ship or on land.

After the ceremony, you can invite your guests onboard for a cocktail hour and reception or they could join you for your entire honeymoon, depending on your preferences. Because they have the option of picking the amount of time they want to spend, you do not have to worry about excluding someone because they cannot afford an extended stay or have other obligations that prevent them from doing so. If you opt for an entire cruise ship wedding theme trip for you entire wedding party and guests, you also have the option of getting married in one of hundreds of ports of call.

Packages are pre-determined and usually a wedding planning company is associated with the cruise line to help you plan the details. A cruise ship wedding theme also obviates the need for costly and often stressful transportation arrangements after the festivities; you are essentially at your honeymoon destination, the moment you set foot in port. Regardless of what options you choose, a cruise ship will provide a day that you and your guests will remember for a lifetime.

Filed Under: Destinations, Themes & Collections Tagged With: cruise ship wedding theme

Wedding Ideas According To Different Seasons

August 4, 2009 By Lisa 1 Comment

There is a variety of exciting wedding ideas to appeal to every type of couple. Gone are the days of a traditional wedding being the only choice because eclectic ideas are becoming the “new” tradition. As couples seek to express themselves, unusual ideas show off unique personalities and preferences.

Of course, traditional, elegant wedding ideas are still very popular. A Cinderella bride may choose to arrive at the ceremony in a horse-drawn carriage. The theme will have a fantasy feeling from yards of tulle transformed into creative bows and embellishments. Often country clubs with rolling lawns or a luxurious restaurant are venues chosen for a princess wedding. A fairy tale castle cake topper sits regally atop the multi-tiered wedding cake, waiting for the bride and groom to cut it with an elegant cake serving set.

Many celebrities are choosing destination weddings in exotic tropical locations. More couples are planning information, intimate weddings in the Caribbean, Hawaii and other famous warm weather beach areas. The gathering is smaller and the couple can be informal and relaxed, exchanging vows with the sun overhead and the sand between their toes. Wedding ideas for destination marriages include starfish and seashells on all the accessories to bring the beach to every aspect of the day. Give out goodies in mini beach bags as favors for the all the guests.

Wedding ideas are also based on the different seasons. Each season has its own beauty, which is captured by using similarly themed decorations and accessories. Autumn is a lovely tie to have a wedding with a backdrop of colorful leaves. The weather is still pleasant and often couples can get great deals on fall weddings. Autumn splendor accents featuring fall leaves express the essence of the season.

Spring weddings celebrate your new love during the season of new life. The flowers, warmer weather and possibility of summer have everyone in a happy mood. Your spring wedding can include a butterfly release after you exchange your vows. Live butterflies are released into the spring afternoon. Have a garden reception with butterfly decorations and accents. From your toasting set to your cake topper, butterflies should embellish all the decorative elements of your wedding day for a uniform theme.

Winter weddings have a magic all their own with the icy weather, possibility of snowfall and holiday season. Create a winter wonderland with snowflake accessories. Hang snowflakes from the ceiling at the reception. Using a toasting set with snowflakes for a wintry mood. Have the reception at a ski lodge or manor house where guests can look out the window at the snowy ground. Create a comforting ambiance with luminaries at the reception tables and a fireplace with a real fire burning.

Flowers are part of most wedding ideas. Calla lilies are traditional blooms used in weddings along with roses and orchids. Use silk flowers to create lasting centerpieces and bouquets without any fragrance to irritate sensitive people.

Other ideas include your favorite styles and music. A western wedding is a fun way to bring guests of all ages together. Give out cowboy hats to everyone to get them in the spirit of a country wedding. Have a square dance caller to get the crowd moving. Fill glass cylinders shaped like Western boots with candies, nuts and mints on all the reception tables. Use a western themed guest book with a fancy pen for your guests to sign.

Ethnic wedding ideas express heritage or simply décor you and your groom appreciate. A Celtic wedding brings the joy of this lively heritage to any reception. Include Celtic themed accessories for an upbeat feeling. An Oriental theme is both exotic and romantic. Give fans out to your guests and display place cards in silver plated fortune cookies to create an Asian atmosphere.

There are literally hundreds of different ideas to choose from. Discuss your thoughts with your groom, family, maid of honor and friends to see which ones sound the best. Review websites and read magazines to get new wedding ideas. Create fresh ideas of your own for a very original day based on your own unique theme.

Filed Under: Ideas & Tips Tagged With: wedding ideas

Wedding Favors That Are Uniquely Creative

August 4, 2009 By Ingrid Leave a Comment

With online resources, it is easy to find gifts that are a product of true creativity. Review online retailers and forums to check out the latest ideas for creative wedding items. It is more difficult to find creative supplies at local retailers because many of your guests may have already seen them or even used them for their own celebrations. Shopping online gives you unlimited place to find the most unique keepsakes for your guests.

Your guests will appreciate the effort you make to find creative wedding favors. Instead of receiving the same favors they got at the last wedding, your token of appreciation will stand out as special. Your guests will feel your gratitude when you give out special, novelty, and creative favors to remember the day.

Favors should match your wedding theme in a unique way. Your wedding favors may be useful, elegant, and whimsical or personalized depending on your preferences.

These keepsakes will continually remind guests of your big day. Imagine how excited your guests will be to receive “A-Peel to My Heart” stainless steel peelers as wedding favors. Whenever they peel potatoes or vegetables in the kitchen, they will think of you. Another unusual, practical item is a “Have a Ball” stainless steel melon baller. As guests prepare for their own future parties by making melon balls, they will remember your wedding party like it was yesterday. Your guests will be able to time their meals perfectly with “Love is Brewing” teapot timers in classic retro gift boxes.

Besides kitchen tools, there are other creative wedding favors that fit in perfectly at your guests’ homes after the reception. Your guests will proudly display and use “Apple of My Eye” ceramic salt and pepper shakers on their dining or kitchen tables. “Spread the Love” signature spreaders make serving wine and cheese easy. Palm-tree cookies cutters in beach themed gift boxes are perfect for waterfront weddings and make adorable cookies when you guests get home.

Think unique when you choose favors for a beach ceremony. Your guests will smile when they see margarita glass gel candles in their own tropical tiki hut gift boxes near each place setting. Flip flop photo frames with flower accents add a bit of humor to your gifts celebrating nautical nuptials.

Your guests enjoy receiving wedding favors they can use right away. “The Cosmopolitan” monogrammed 5-piece manicure set is personalized and comes in handy to take care of broken nails on the go. Guests can take notes and exchange their latest contact information when you give out “Love Notes” sticky notes in their own nostalgic dispenser gift boxes with dainty heart charms. Add a touch of tradition with “Write from the Heart” calla lily pens in gift boxes.

Candles can be creative favors when you choose unusual shapes and designs. Imagine how delighted your guests will be to receive “Sweet Treats” glass sundae candles in ice cream parlor gift boxes at a warm summer wedding. Capture the cake cutting ceremony at your reception forever with “Buttercream Dreams” cake candles on porcelain pedestal cake plates. Express the sentiment of your special day simply with “L-O-V-E” engraved and scented votive candles.

You can also make your own affordable favors creatively by using decorative bags and boxes. Give your guests treats such as hard candies, nuts or chocolate in themed wedding favor boxes and bags. “Enchanted Carriage” favor boxes are fabulous for a Cinderella princess wedding theme. For Vegas weddings, “Lucky In Love” dice favor boxes with imprinted ribbons turn the tiniest treasures into a jackpot for your guests. Let your guests know how you feel about their attendance with “Welcome To Our Wedding” personalized wedding bags with white satin ribbons handles.

Creative wedding favors make your big day more fun and memorable for everyone.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Gifts, Wedding Favors Tagged With: beach themed wedding favors

Beach themed kitchen accessories are cute wedding favors.

August 4, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Beach wedding favors give your guests a seaside treasure to take home and remember your special celebration. Remind everyone of your nautical nuptials and express appreciation to your guests with these beautiful tokens of appreciation.

Many couples are choosing carefree beach weddings over traditional marriage ceremonies. Instead of tying the knot in a house of worship and having a reception at a separation location such as a country club, couples are exchanging their vows outdoors with nature all around them.

Surrounded by sandy beach, crystal seas and warm sun, couples proclaim their eternal love. After the ceremony, guests attend a seafaring reception and receive their beach wedding favors to remember the moment.

Beach weddings are less formal so couples can wear whatever they prefer. Often brides opt for gauzy dresses in white or ivory with beading, sequins, embroidery or shells. The bride may decide to wear a short veil or a halo of flowers on top of her head as opposed to a long, formal headdress.

Many brides go barefoot, wear just married flip flops or slide into dressy, strappy sandals. Grooms can wear casual dress slacks and a neat button up shirt with no shoes or huaraches.

At a beach wedding, you can invite as few or as many guests based on your budget and the size of the beach. Some beach weddings are intimate gatherings with immediate family and a few friends while others are elaborate events with hundreds of guests.

Whether you have a large or small beach wedding, find out the rules for the area you use. Follow all regulations to ensure your wedding is a complete success.

You would not want to be faced with legal penalties in the middle of your wedding ceremony or reception. After all, your guests may never receive their beach wedding favors if a problem with the venue arises!

A beach wedding can be held locally or at an exotic location. When you travel to your destination, it is referred to as a destination wedding. If you don’t live near a beach or have the budget for a destination wedding, you can create a beach environment wherever you are with seafaring decorations, seashells accents and simulated waterfalls or ponds.

No matter how big or small your beach wedding is, all your guests will look for beach favors when they arrive at your reception. Do double duty and put out decorative place card holders that double as favors. Your guests will be amazed at the detailed features on beach memories miniature Adirondack chair place card holders and photo frames.

This adorable little Adirondack chairs will guides guests to their seats and become lasting keepsakes to display your wedding photo when it arrives in a thank-you card. If your beach wedding is on a boat, shining sails silver place card holders are the perfect way to show your guests to their places.

Match your place card holders and beach themed favors. Guide your guests to their seats with beachcombers flip flop place card holders so place cards don’t blow away with the first gusty sea breeze. Give your guests flip flips genuine leather key chains as a token of your appreciation.

After the wedding, everyone will want to look at the photos they took of all the festivities. A thoughtful gift is a beach memories guest photo album. These useful beach favors will be proudly displayed in many of your guests’ homes so they can keep looking at the pictures of your special day.

Candles are popular favors because most people use them. Your guests will love a whimsical margarita glass gel candle in a tropical tiki hut gift box as a lasting keepsake of your nautical nuptials.

Set sail frosted sailboat tea light holders are elegant beach wedding favors for your guests. Everyone can bring the beach home with seashells gel candles in clear gift boxes with raffia ties and thank you tags or darling seaside tea light candle sets.

Beach themed kitchen accessories are useful, thoughtful favors. Everyone will love a palm tree cookie cutter in a beach-themed gift box or a chrome seashell bottle stopper. These practical gifts will continually remind your guests of the wonderful time they had sharing your big day.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Themes & Collections, Wedding Favors Tagged With: beach themed wedding favors

Do Whatever Makes You Happy When Decorating

August 4, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

Depending on where you are getting married, ceremony decorations may be a very important part of your planning. If you are getting married in a church, you may be able to get away with just a few ceremony decorations. However, if you are getting married in your backyard, on the beachfront at your family cottage, or at a local reception hall, you may need to plan and budget for a significant amount of wedding ceremony decorations.

Use your wedding location as a launching point to find decorating ideas. Keep in mind that flowers, aisle runners, chairs, alter décor and more will all vary depending upon where you are exchanging nuptials. If your wedding dress is elaborate and you are getting married in a large cathedral church, you certainly do not want beach themed or comical wedding ceremony decorations.

In such a case, you want to stick with taffeta and tulle bows to decorate the church pews, fancy aisle runners for your flower girl to adorn with fresh or silk rose petals, and large spectacular floral arrangements to showcase the marriage alter. However, only about 1 in 50 brides actually has a full-blown cathedral wedding anymore. If you are in the majority and will be tying the knot somewhere unique, fun or unusual, we have assembled some enjoyable decorating ideas for you.

Fun and Unique Wedding Ceremony Decorating Ideas

No matter what you can imagine, you can make it come true on your wedding day. There are no rules written in stone about how your wedding must look or how you should or should not decorate for your ceremony. If you are mad for the colour magenta, use it… everywhere! If you have always wanted to have an oceanfront wedding where everyone comes in bare feet and beachwear, have it!

If you own an Italian restaurant, what is wrong with wanting guests to throw colored macaroni pasta instead of rice? How fun! Perhaps you work as a marine biologist or a trainer a Sea World – why not have your bridesmaids decked out in mermaid style dresses with starfish jewelry? Maybe Casablanca is your all time favorite movie. Feel free to plan a wonderful, black and white, old style wedding with a candlelight ceremony. A modern way to do this is to use luminaries down either side of the aisle for a soft, wonderful ambiance.

If your dream wedding is on the beach and you live in the middle of Idaho, you can still have a beach themed wedding. Plan your big day in the summer, find a large park, ballpark or vacant lot that you can rent or use and call a company to dump a few tons of beach sand on it. Decorate with lots of brightly coloured flowers like hibiscus, geranium, birds of paradise, and angel trumpets.

Have everyone come casually dressed and sit on beach mats for the ceremony. Add a starfish or tropical breeze wedding cake topper to your pineapple tropics wedding cake, use beach chair shaped place cards if you have arranged seating for the ceremony, and use beach or nautical signs to point everyone from the parking area to the ceremony location. Lovely beach themed paper and stationary would be ideal for casual wedding invitations or for your ceremony program.

Flowers, birds and butterflies also make lovely wedding ceremony themes. You can never go wrong with garlands of roses, an alter arbor overflowing with wisteria, a butterfly embroidered ring bearer pillow and toss garter, or a wonderful cake topper with stylized birds wrapped around the bride and groom. Dress up the church pew bows with large oriental lily blooms for a splash of fresh colour or perhaps choose silk flowers that you can keep forever.

If you are your partner are sports fans, have fun with it. Get married on a golf course with your wedding party dressed up as caddies, exchange vows on the pitcher’s mound at your favourite baseball field or centerfield on the soccer field where you met your spouse to be, or order all of your wedding ceremony decorations in the colours of your beloved basketball team.

Whatever the couple wants should be when it comes to the ceremony décor. Your wedding party should be there to help, offer advice and run errands – but not dictate or decide wedding ceremony decorations. Your parents or in-laws had their own wedding day, and this is yours! Do whatever will make you happy and give you a warm feeling of happiness when you think about your wedding day 25 years from now.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Ceremony Tagged With: wedding ceremony decoration

Seaside Ambiance for Thank You Gifts

August 4, 2009 By Lisa Leave a Comment

The beach is always a popular motif for weddings because it is so versatile and almost everyone has at least one good memory associated with the beach along an ocean, lake, pond, or cottage life. As a society, we spend countless hours on the beach playing as children, sunning as teenagers and adults, taking long walks on the beach to find shells and enjoying the rising and setting of the sun from a well-appointed perch or during a morning or evening stroll.

The beach means different things to different people, but there are some common themes. Beaches represent tranquility and consistency. They also are very busy places where people recreate, birds scour for food and water-creatures and fauna live just feet away. Beaches represent cleanliness and a new beginning; with each incoming tide, beaches are swept clean, leaving an interesting deposit of shells and wildlife each morning.

Beaches are also beautiful to look at. The colors that encompass even the most mundane beach are spectacular as are the wildlife. Sea grasses, the color of the water, the sky and the sand all provide an interesting cornucopia of colors that can be incorporated into any beach theme because they merge so great together and match just about any other color scheme.

Beaches also represent life. Even an inland pond beach is bustling with activity. Dragon flies flit from perch to perch, ducks swim offshore, fish jump and frogs, lizards and other wildlife use the beach as a highway, food source and refuge. Ocean beaches can be astounding in the amount of wildlife they support besides humans. Clams burrow into the sand as to some crabs, fish swim offshore sea gulls scavenge and tidal pools support hundreds if not thousands of different life forms.

Incorporating the beach into your wedding is easy and almost always a good match. Beach theme wedding favors are no exception. Because the beach is so diverse, you have an array off article and color options that will fit almost any wedding perfectly.

In terms of the favors themselves, you have a lot of options. The beach is rife with wildlife, shells, sand and rocks and each specimen is likely included in a beach theme wedding favor somewhere.

Ready for purchase are starfish wine stoppers, wooden deck chair candle holders, beach theme wooden trinket boxes and so much more. Miniature folding beach chairs dress up any table and evoke a sense of carefree bliss as do flip flop shaped notepads celebrating the day and the Bride and Groom. Mini Lanterns with Hangers evoke damp, fog-laden nights and foghorns bellowing in the background.

Miniature metal pails remind people of blissful days spent building sand castles. In addition, to set a lighter mood you can select Starfish Shaped Stickers, Beach Towel Stickers or Boat Flag Stickers. Each of these remind people of how fun the beach is and how fun your wedding is because of your good taste in themes.

Like the beach theme wedding favors you choose, you also have lots to pick from in terms of color. Aqua blue is by far the favorite because it is airy and light, but it is by no means your only option. Sea green is very popular as is sea-grass greens and sand. Other popular colors are derived from deep blue skies, the colors of wildlife and the pastels that people paint houses, boardwalks and piers. Since so many colors make up your average beach scene, your choices of colors run the gamut.

Beach theme party favors are a great way to celebrate something almost everyone enjoys in one way, shape or form. Even people who do not like spending a lot of time on the beach usually at least enjoy the wildlife, colors and landscape and just about everyone appreciates the views of the ocean, tranquility of a pond, picturesque beauty of a lake or the power of a river. Beach theme wedding favors can add a light, fun and lively flavor your event and come in so many different shapes, sizes and forms that finding the perfect set of favors is easy.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Themes & Collections, Wedding Favors Tagged With: beach themed wedding favors

Barefoot On the Beach With Tropical Wedding Cake Toppers

August 4, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

Tropical wedding cake toppers are the perfect way to top off your exotic destination wedding. Whether you exchange vows at a local beach or in a tropical paradise, beach themed wedding cake toppers add to the seafaring spirit of the day. Celebrate your unique waterfront wedding with these cake toppers; lasting keepsakes of your big moment.

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

Many couples feel compelled to plan a conventional wedding to please their friends and family without consider their own personal preferences. A private destination wedding can keep your guest list small and exclusive while making your wedding dreams come true.

After you say, “I do”, you can dive right into your reception and honeymoon for a non-stop party. Destination weddings also have celebrity status with couples such as Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon choosing to get married in the Caribbean. Popular destination wedding locations include Hawaii, Jamaica and the Bahamas.

Capture the exotic spirit of the day with an elegant tropical breeze cake topper. All your guests gather around the wedding cake during the reception. A couple embracing under heart-shaped palm trees expresses the essence of your unforgettable destination wedding.

Barefoot On the Beach

Couples living near a beautiful beach can stay close to home and still have a fantasy waterfront wedding. Imagine being barefoot in a flowing white gauze gown with flowers in your hair while the groom wears khakis with his toes in the sand. Bring this feeling to all your guests with a beach bride and groom on your wedding cake. Everyone gathers around the cake during the reception and it is the focal point during the cake cutting ceremony.

A couple that catches the spirit of your barefoot on the beach wedding is an eye-catching detail in photos and videos of that once in a lifetime moment. When the party is over, a charming beach bride and groom cake topper is a treasured keepsake of your nautical nuptials.

Gone Fishing

Do you and your partner love to get away from it all and go fishing together? While some couples consider a day at the beach a tropical getaway filled with sunbathing and romance, others get up early to try to catch the big one together. Invite all the fish to share in the joy of your eternal love with a beach wedding. Big game fisher folk choose Caribbean destination weddings to try for their second largest catch.

The first largest catch is your other half, humorously communicated with gone fishing cake toppers showing a bride reeling in the groom by the seat of his pants. Local beaches by a lake or bay are also romantic places for a beach wedding. Dare to be different. Get married by your favorite fishing hole and make it a special place for more than one reason.

Personalize Your Wedding Day

Mix brushed silver monogram cake toppers with your favorite tropical wedding cake toppers to personalize your day. Use your initials or spell out unique statements including “I Do”, “Love”, “Beach” and “Fish” based on the beach themed wedding cake toppers you choose. Add additional monogram cake toppers near buffet tables and guest book tables for a uniform look throughout your reception.

If you want to add a bit of bling to you beach wedding, use a few jeweled monogram cake toppers for a touch of sparkle. Your personalized statements can be as unique as your destination wedding when you combine monogram cake toppers with beach cake toppers.

Add a touch of nature with a contemporary lovebirds cake topper along with your beach cake toppers. Put the finishing touch on an Irish wedding by the sea with a traditional Claddaugh cake top. Put a touch of modern art on your cake with a love link stylized heart cake topper. Use several beach wedding cake toppers to create your own unique design.

It’s your big day and tropical cake tops express it your way. An outdoor wedding is an unforgettable event for everyone. Have a lasting memory of your waterfront wedding with keepsake beach cake toppers.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Ceremony, Wedding Cake Toppers Tagged With: tropical wedding cake toppers

Creating Your Own Centerpieces Personalizes Your Big Day

August 4, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

Wedding table centerpieces make your special seating area more eye-catching while reflecting the theme of your day. Everyone will be watching the bride and groom so the best ideas are attractive but not overwhelming. After all, the bride and groom are the stars of the day and should be seen without being hidden by an oversized centerpiece.

First, consider the theme of your wedding. Is it elegant, casual, whimsical or child-friendly? This will help you determine the best centerpiece for your bride and groom table so you can match it to your theme. For example, at a sophisticated adult wedding you can use a variety of glass holder with candles in different sizes and mirrors to reflect their glow. At a wedding with children, you can incorporate color and humor into your wedding table centerpieces with a large bowl filled with candies and prizes that is sure to attract your younger guests.

Remember the wedding table will be a place where guests come to talk to the bride and groom and spend some time. It is also a focal point during the toast to the bride and groom so all eyes will be watching your table. Your ideas should suit your type of wedding for a professional, uniform appearance in all the photographs and videos of the event.

Next, determine the size of the table to figure out how many centerpieces you need. The number of items is determined by the amount of people seated with the bride and groom. A long table may need three or four centerpieces for balance, while a smaller table is perfect with just one. Once you know the theme and the number of centerpieces you need, you can choose the most appropriate ideas.

For the bride and groom’s table, a white centerpiece with gold and silver accents suits all types of weddings. If you have a luxury adult wedding, use a variety of candles in different sizes places on mirrors because you don’t have to worry about little hands being attracted to all the flickering light. You can also have a small fountain in the middle of your table for a romantic, calming touch.

At wedding with or without children, flowers make classic wedding table centerpieces. Make sure the flowers are not so tall that they hide the faces of the bride and groom. Choose unique vases and stones to customize your centerpieces. You can even make them yourself with a bit of creativity, using your choice of dried or fresh flowers. At a country theme wedding, you can fill western boot glasses with stones and flowers. For a sophisticated look, fill beautiful glass vases with colorful stones, mystic crystals or even water activated diamond lights for a glow beneath your bouquets. Add glitter on the branches for sparkling appeal.

The flowers you choose depend on the season and the colors worn by the wedding party. Match the flowers to your theme for a uniform appearance throughout your wedding ceremony and reception. Make sure the flowers are not too tall or wide for your wedding table. Also, avoid fragrant flowers that may upset members of the wedding party with allergies or sensitive stomachs during the excitement of your big day.

A fun way to decorate your wedding table is with a heart-shaped fondue set. The bride, groom and wedding party will have a great time gathering around a chocolate fondue and dipping strawberries. The fondue makes a fantastic centerpiece you can take home after the wedding to relive romantic moments with your own private fondue.

Another attractive accent for the wedding table that won’t interfere with viewing the bride and groom are plates spelling “L-O-V-E” filled with goodies such as nuts, mints, candies and fruits. The bride, groom and wedding party can pick on the goodies and the plates are lovely keepsakes after the reception is over.

While you can have a professional make your centerpieces, these ideas can all be easily put together yourself to save money. Creating your own centerpieces also personalizes your big day.

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Wedding Table Centerpieces Tagged With: Wedding Table Centerpieces

Give The Beauty Of Nature With Island Wedding Favors

August 4, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

Radiant sunshine, windy atmosphere, soft whispering waves and some warm soil. It’s perfect for a tropical getaway! What’s more exciting is planning out not just a day of relaxation or vacation, but one of the most special days of your life- the wedding day!

Tropical-inspired nuptials are mostly preferred by adventurous couples or those who would want a casual feel of their wedding. No heavy, sweaty feeling under those ball gowns, no over-decorated halls, no much artificial arrangements, just simple and natural look of the environment, flimsy white dresses and khakis, and outdoor ambience which will surely lighten up this very memorable event.

Apart from the given art of nature which would mostly keep your day in a tropical atmosphere, it’s a must that you incorporate the accessories and the stuff to the theme. The venue mostly chosen for this is in an island setting or some beach side areas. Adorn your setting with brightly colored umbrellas, balls and large pieces of cloths all over. You may want to include a summery dress code for your guests. Some Hawaiian-look is best picked! Also, you can ask your invitees to wear some floral clothes if not whites or khakis.

Of course, the party after the matrimonial rites should be as colorful or as island-y as possible! A lot of island wedding favor ideas are sure to make them keep these items as island treasures!

Take for example the feel of the sunshine. Bring the vibrant sunny day atmosphere with tiny felt bags. Better if you get them in different pastel or candy colors, but the brighter is more recommended! Accentuate it with little flower felt pieces, some ribbons or ornamental butterflies or pieces of artificial flowers (don’t forget to put the stems out!). Aside from bags, you can also make some small throw pillows or toy pillows. Decorate it the same way with the bags.

If you want to take more of the seas, beach accessories are nice suggestions. Purchase some miniatures of those benches or chairs you use during sunbathing. Aside from having it as a souvenir item, you can also use it as place card holders during the reception and it could also serve as a mobile phone holders to your guests! Another beachside item could be some sands and little shells that you can place inside a shot glass. Pour in melted candle gels, when it hardens, it will look like a mini beach diorama…plus, it’s a candle! You can add scents if you want.

For some Aloha! Island escapade, why not welcome your guests with handmade artificial flower-arranged lays or some flowery bracelets and crowns. You might also want to give out some sun visors matching your motif and with printed couple’s name inside the brim. These will not only be a keepsake for those invitees, it will also help the event feel and look more Hawaiian, all the more, your guests will have some free accessories, just in case they fell short of the dress code!

Since the reception is casual, might as well pick up a flip flop design for your favor. You can either get some flip flop slipper keychains or convert it into a mini frame by placing a photo sticker of the two of you in the middle portion of the item, or a little copy of your photos with the corners tacked with very small crafted thumbtacks.

Another island wedding favor you can easily do-it-yourself is a thank you note. Simple as it might seem, it can still take you back to the islands. Roll up your personalized thank you notes and place it inside clear long-necked bottles. Cap it off with bottle stoppers with some decorations and present it as floating decors on artificial or man-made pond!

Sea shells are nice accessories you can share with your guests. Also, some cute little colored artificial gemstones can add up to the beauty and luster of a treasure chest or box. Put that island treasure into life with a mini treasure boxes. Fill them up with small shells and gemstones. Customize the container with engravings of the couple’s names, the date and venue of your wedding day. Or, you can put some candies, potpourri, or some beads and pearl-like objects inside the chests. Pick your own object, it will surely be more pleasing and appreciated when they reflect you on it!

Filed Under: Beach Decoration, Wedding Favors Tagged With: island wedding favors

There Is A Perfect Tiara For Every Bride

August 4, 2009 By Lisa Leave a Comment

Are bridal tiaras important to the bride’s overall polished and put together look on her wedding day? Let’s look at it this way… when a woman buys a new suit or dress for work or pleasure, that outfit is not an ensemble without the perfect pair of shoes and a matching handbag – that is just the unwritten law of wardrobe accessorizing.

Bridal attire is certainly no different. You may have found the perfect dream wedding dress but it cannot be complete without a crowning glory to set off your perfect up-do hairstyle on your wedding day.

Bridal tiaras are most certainly a personal choice and selecting a tiara style will be unique to each bride. Some are halo style and sit close to the head, some are crown style and sit high up off the head and others are headband style and sit delicately across the forehead and adorn the face as well as the hair.

A tiara is generally not chosen until after the wedding gown, veil and jewelry are purchased so that the headpiece complements the bride’s dress and jewels, rather than competes with them. Once a dress is purchased, the bride will know whether she wants a tiara with rhinestones, pearls or colored beads.

The bride can also determine whether she wants a headpiece that is plain and possibly a single row of stones, or a fancier tiara that has polished floral embellishments such as French petals or glittering daisy flowers. Any details on the tiara such as pearls and crystals should match any decoration on the veil and both should co-ordinate with your dress.

If you are wearing a veil on your wedding day, and you still want to wear a tiara, it is best to pin the veil at the back of the head behind the tiara. If you are wearing your hair long, a crown style tiara is the best choice as it shows off the headpiece and showcases long, beautiful hair.

If you have chosen to wear your hair in a stylish up-do on your wedding day, a halo style tiara will look amazing, as will a low profile crown style tiara that complements your hairstyle but doesn’t overpower it. For brides that wear the front of the hair back and leave the back long and loose, many bridal tiaras will be appropriate and you are free to choose the tiara that you love best of all. Just remember that whatever tiara you choose, make sure that the details match your veil and coordinate with your wedding gown.

Depending on your preference, many accessories are available in gold or silver wire. Therefore, whether you wear white or yellow gold jewelry, you can purchase a tiara that matches your other jewels. In most cases, a wedding tiara is secured to your head with small plastic or metal hair combs. It is often recommended that you take your crown with you to your hairdresser’s on your wedding day and have it professionally fitted when your hair is being coiffed and styled to nuptial perfection. This will also ensure that the tiara is installed securely, which reduces the chances of it coming loose or falling off during the wedding ceremony or reception.

One of the most beneficial aspects of choosing a bridal tiara instead of baby’s breath, ribbons or lace for your hair embellishment is that it is a true heirloom keepsake that can be cherished for many years and then passed down to children or grandchildren in the future. They are an affordable way to add the perfect finishing touch to your wedding ensemble. No matter the elaborate fashion of your bridal gown, your personal style, or the length of your hair, there is a perfect one for every blushing bride.

Filed Under: Tiaras Tagged With: Tiaras

Bridal Accessories That Are Elegant And Yet Affordable

August 4, 2009 By Lisa Leave a Comment

Unless you happen to be Steve Martin’s daughter in the movie Father of the Bride, and you have Martin Short to over-organize every aspect of your wedding right down to the wedding supplies, you are probably doing the wedding planning yourself, with the help of your mother, maid of honor and close friends.

Most couples want personalized items and wedding supplies that are tasteful and yet affordable. Plan ahead, compare offering and prices and finding affordable wedding items that match your wedding theme and are of high quality are easy to find.

Of course, there are wedding supply necessities that you need to add to your shopping list. These include a ring bearer pillow and flower girl basket for the little ones in your wedding party. Finding a matching pillow and basket set is a good idea if the two children will be walking down the aisle together or be standing side by side at the alter.

Nowadays, you can find ring bearer pillows and flower girl baskets in a wide variety of themes from funky camouflage and seaside allure to romantic western and traditional white satin. You might also want a tuxedo façade or fancy wedding bow for the pet in your family! Ceremony wedding supplies can always be personalized to your taste or with your choice of sentiment.

Speaking of personalization, remember to order your reception napkins, place cards, favor tags, and gift ribbons early. Personalized ribbons have become a very popular choice and a very small keepsake that family members can take home. You can wrap the wedding favor in your personalized ribbon or maybe roll up your wedding program and tie it with your special ribbon.

Another smart idea is to punch a small hole in the corner of the table place card and attach a personalized ribbon, tied in a sweet bow. It really dresses up the place card and allows each guest at your wedding the opportunity to not only take home something that is personalized, but with their name on it also!

Wedding favors are also a must have wedding supply that can be made fun by using color or theme, or can be personalized. Everyone that attends a wedding loves to take home a little something that is personalized with the bride and groom name and date of wedding on it.

Traditionally, it used to be a pack of matches or a slice of fruitcake wrapped in a personalized mini doily. However, matches are no longer considered socially acceptable and fruitcake has increasingly fallen out of favor over the years.

Heart shaped mints in a cute little container are popular, wedding playing cards are a great favor gift, as are paper photo frames that are personalized. Essentially, use your imagination… depending upon how many guests you are having, you should be spending no more than $3 a person on wedding favor supplies.

The exception to this rule is if you are having a very small, intimate wedding affair with just a handful of guest and you want to make sure each person gets a very special gift to take home.

Unity candles and the newer sand unity sets are very popular in the modern wedding ceremony. These sets can be traditional and elegant, or more contemporary to match your wedding ambiance. The importance of a unity ceremony is to signify the joining of two families and has become a very popular North American tradition, especially for second weddings where children from a previous marriage are being included in the ceremony.

Unity candles are almost always white and can be personalized with your names, vows or special sentiment. Unity sand sets come in colors and in a mini set for families who are all participating in the ceremony.

Of course, depending on your choice of wedding ceremony and reception venues, your list of wedding supplies could be the same or different as those mentioned in this article.

Some brides have relatively short shopping lists, while other brides have endless lists of wedding accessories they must source out and purchase before the big day.

Almost anything you can imagine is attainable, and most anything can be personalized or customized for your big day. Wedding supplies do not have to blow your budget. If you shop early, be discerning and know what you are looking for, you should be able to keep your wedding items budget in check.

Filed Under: Accessories, Ideas & Tips Tagged With: Beach Wedding Supplies

Engraved Toasting Flutes As Permanent Reminder Of Your Special Day

August 4, 2009 By admin Leave a Comment

Unique toasting flutes for your wedding party add a professional, uniform look to this special moment during your reception for unforgettable photos. You and your wedding party will treasure personally engraved ones as a lasting memory of the day.

When everyone raises their glasses to their lips, engraved toasting flutes look so elegant. Your guests will appreciate your attention to detail when you have these flutes to celebrate your new lives together. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes including goblets and long stemmed glasses. The bride and groom can express their own unique sentiments on them. The glasses are custom engraved or printed based on the glass style chosen.

Names, dates, a logo, a monogram or a special message can be engraved on your wedding toasting flutes. Have a special set of engraved flutes just for the bride and groom. A good way to offset the bride and groom flutes is to display them in a matching holder. A silver plated love stem champagne holder and glass flutes keeps both glasses together with a linking heart until the toasting moment. Silver plated interlocking heart stems with glass flutes express joining together in one heart.

The matron of honor, best man, bridesmaids and groomsmen all receive their own unique engraved flute sets. The bride and groom can use this opportunity to express heartfelt sentiments to each of the people who helped make their wedding day possible. Include your names and date with a line or two of text to tell everyone how you feel. These specially engraved toasting flutes are also lasting keepsakes of your wedding day for the party to proudly display in their homes. Personalized flutes for your entire wedding party also look fabulous in all the photos and videos of your marriage toast.

Select ones for a formal wedding. Interlocking diamond stem champagne flutes add a glamorous touch to your head table. Silver plated open heart and jewel drop stem champagne flutes add sparkle and heart to your toast.

Hearts are a timeless, traditional way to show your eternal love. Love burst toasting flutes feature a bursting heart, much like the way newlyweds feel about each other. Silver plated heart stem glass flutes look opulent for the bride, groom and wedding party. For truly unique ones, silver plated stacked hearts glass flutes will make your guests stop to admire them. A classic double heart toasting set shows two hearts are coming together for one marriage. Capture the very essence of marriage itself with engraved diamond ring champagne flutes.

Wedding themes express themselves in many aspects of your special day. A decorative flower basket makes the ceremony even more wonderful. An eye-catching, themed cake topper brings your ideas right to the top of your wedding cake. Themed, engraved toasting flutes capture this special moment and become keepsakes you use to celebrate your anniversary every year. For a winter wedding, winter wonder sets bring snowflakes to your head table. Fall weddings are complete when you use an autumn splendor set with unusual oak leaf embellishments.

Flowers are an integral part of many wedding themes. Match your sets to the flowers displayed at your wedding ceremony and reception. A flower of love in romantic red toasting set matches red roses perfectly. A bridal beauty calla lily toasting set matches the beauty of the calla lilies in the bridal bouquet. Ribbons and roses bring a timeless floral touch to these items.

From wedding white to irresistible chocolate and strawberries, your sets reflect the colors and themes of your one-of-a-kind wedding day. Add your own personal sentiments and these engraved wedding flutes will permanently remind everyone of your incredible day.

Filed Under: Reception, Toasting Flutes Tagged With: toasting flutes

Some Great Guest Book Ideas For Your Beach Wedding

August 4, 2009 By Jen Leave a Comment

Wedding guest book ideas are found in bridal magazines, retail stores and through online resources. The best wedding ideas compliment the theme of your big day. Shopping around for cool ideas online is convenient because you can do it anytime, anywhere.

Your guest book is one of the most important accessories. During the wedding reception, all your guests look for this book to sign their names, addresses and make a personal statement. From funny one-liners to touching paragraphs, everyone will have something unique to say to the happy couple. After the reception, the guest book is a handy resource for writing thank you notes. Once your thank you notes are in the mail, your guest book becomes the first marital phone book so you know how to get in touch with everyone.

Usually it is displayed on its own table at the reception so guests can easily locate it. The table is decorated to match the wedding theme and a fancy pen to match the guest book is provided so guests can write their sentiments. With the hectic pace of a wedding, often the bride and groom do not get to exchange many words with their guests. A wedding guest book gives you a chance to read all the thoughts your guests had during your reception to relive the moment again and again.

Often great ideas come right from the theme of the wedding. One of the first choices you make as you plan for your big day is the theme. Once you choose a theme, you can select your invitations, decorations and accessories so everything matches. A uniform appearance throughout your wedding ceremony and reception looks professional in all your wedding photos and videos.

Calla lilies are a timeless, traditional theme. The gentle beauty of these flowers is associated with marriage and love. A bridal beauty calla lily traditional guest book matches the flowers in your wedding bouquets. If you prefer red roses, a flower of love in romantic red guest book is simply perfect.

Chocolate and strawberries are a decadent delight often associated with romance. If you and your groom appreciate the sensual pleasure of chocolate and strawberries, you will both love chocolate and strawberry cream accessories, including a traditional guest book. Chocolate colored ribbons with crystals on a pale pink background is a tasty way to gather your guests’ names.

Love and faith go hand in hand for many couples. Marriage often involves a ceremony of faith based on the couples’ background and religion. Express your faith with an expression of faith traditional guest book. Your guests will all appreciate the love and faith you share, which will surely be reflected in the comments they write.

Consider the décor in the marital home when you consider ideas. Your guest book should match your theme and fit nicely into your new home together. Classic guest book designs match any wedding theme and look fabulous displayed in your marital home.

A bronze elegance traditional guest book adds opulence to your wedding reception and your home. A thymeless traditional one combines rich color and texture, adding a luxurious touch to your wedding reception and new home. A scattered pearls and crystals traditional book in white captures the very essence of your wedding day. If you prefer total elegance, choose a platinum by design traditional guest book with sparkling crystals. These beautiful guest books will attract attention anywhere you display them. Solid, classic designs look lovely for many years to come as you reminisce about your wedding day or write holiday cards.

No matter what your wedding theme or location, hearts fit in anywhere because they are the universal symbol of love. A classic double heart traditional guest book shows the joining of two hearts in marriage. A love tree in natural white is a unique way to display hearts on it.

With so many ideas, you can find the perfect choice to match your wedding reception and your new marital home together.

Filed Under: Ceremony, Guest Books, Reception, Themes & Collections Tagged With: Guest Books