Fourteen Tips for Saving Money on Your Wedding Flowers

As an experienced wedding and special event florist, I'm often asked for floral advice. One of the most frequent questions I'm asked is, "How can I save money on my wedding flowers?" Over the years I've given a number of money-saving tips to brides, their mothers, their wedding planners, and anyone else involved in the budgeting and planning of their weddings. I've compiled a few of the most common ways to cut wedding floral costs and listed them below.

Money Saving Tip #1 - Keep the number of bridesmaids and other attendants to a minimum.
I'm always amazed by the number of brides who say they have a very tight floral budget yet they have a very large number of bridesmaids participating in their weddings. One of the most effective ways to immediately reduce floral expenses is to keep the number of attendants, particularly bridesmaids, to a minimum.

For an example of how the number of attendants can quickly inflate or reduce your wedding floral costs, take a look this comparison. A bride who selects an average $65 bouquet style for her 8 bridesmaids will spend $520 in bridesmaid bouquets alone, whereas, a bride who selects the same $65 bouquet for her 3 bridesmaids will spend only $195. That's a savings of $325!

2010 Wedding Trends

What Will Be the Hottest, Hippest, and Cutest 2010 Wedding Trends?

When predicting 2010 Wedding Trends, it seems almost too obvious to talk about the economy's impact. But before you jump to conclusions about how drab and cheap weddings are becoming, know that money is certainly not the only influence on style, fashion, or tradition. In fact, couples are getting more creative and feel more freedom to make unique choices.

Here's what I think will be hot next year:

Backyard Weddings at Home

While getting married at home isn't necessarily cheaper, it feels more personal, allows you to have a more intimate affair, and doesn't feel ostentatious. The economy means not only that people want to spend less money, but also that they feel guilty when they do spend money. A backyard event not only helps to put your guests at ease, but also allows you to make more casual, less expensive choices elsewhere. For example, a barbeque picnic feels more appropriate at home than it would at a country club.

Honeymoon on a Budget

15 simple ways to save money on your honeymoon

No one wants to skimp on their honeymoon. Posh accommodations, intimate meals, and soothing massages rank high on the wish list of virtually every newlywed, but most people don't have an unlimited expense account. No need to take the backpack-and-hostel route -- just focus on these five areas to cut down your costs.
The Planning

A little legwork early in your engagement goes a long way toward balancing your budget.

1. Consider a travel agent
It's easy to find a flight and book a hotel over the Internet, so the idea of working with a travel agent might seem antiquated. While it's not for everyone, Tim Leffel, author of Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune, observes that a travel agent can save money for those who don't have a specific destination in mind. "If you just want to go to a nice Caribbean island and stay in a hotel on the beach, agents can often find deals that you might not run across yourself." So if your heart's set on the Four Seasons in Nevis, use the Web. If you're open to any number of islands and resorts, see what a travel agent has to offer.

Jamaica Wedding Destination Guide

Just about every Caribbean island offers the natural lure of sun-filled days on white-sand beaches gently lapped by an azure sea. But for travellers in search of a rich cultural experience in a setting of extraordinary beauty, Jamaica presents a fascinating diversity of options.
Much of Jamaica's land rises more than 1,000 feet above sea level. The celebrated Blue Mountains, famed for their fine coffee, are actually made up of two ranges, the Central Range, in the northern section, and the Port Royal Mountains that rise above the Liguanea Plain, just north of Kingston. Forests are rich in flora and fauna, and a remarkable number of imaginatively landscaped gardens offer colourful relaxation spots for a restful break.

Water sports run the gamut from sailing and yachting to deep-sea fishing. The island's reefs are home to several sunken ships which have become home to huge families of tropical fish and favourite locations for scuba divers. Coral caves, tunnels and steep canyons overlook waters rich in all variety of tropical fish. The land is punctuated by cascading waterways and fast-flowing rivers, with several mineral springs of therapeutic value. River rafting is especially good on the Martha Brae and the Rio Grande. At Dolphin Cove, visitors can swim with a family of bottle-nose dolphins or visit with rays, eels and sharks.

Why Roses?

Roses are-plain and simple-the quintessential wedding flower. A universal symbol of love and beauty, they are at once classic and contemporary, omnipresent yet never overdone, ever current yet steeped in history. There were 20,000 cream-color roses at the wedding of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas. More recently, brides are finding Carmen Electra's luscious deep red rose bouquet to die for. Why? Roses are synonymous with romance. More elegant than daisies, less pretentious than French tulips, and more affordable than orchids...

Roses are Symbolic...

Open any romance novel, look at any romantic painting, and it's clear that throughout the ages writers, poets, artists, and others have used the rose as a metaphor for undying love, beauty, and passion. But why? It has been cited that Chloris -- the Greek Goddess of Flowers -- created the rose out of a lifeless nymph. In the creation, Chloris called upon Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, to bless the nymph with beauty; Dionysus, the God of Wine, to give her a sweet scent; and the three Graces to bestow charm, brightness, and joy upon her. Then Zephyr, the West Wind, blew away clouds so that Apollo, the Sun God, could make the flower bloom. Voila! A rose and symbol of beauty was born.

Interfaith Weddings: 8 Planning Tips

Planning an interfaith ceremony can be tricky. You'll likely face three major challenges: finding an officiant; combining two sets of traditions without upsetting your families too much; and creating a ceremony that reflects your commitment and your common values. If you have two different religions, these issues can take on the complexity of an international summit. How can you prevent a religious roadblock?

1. Have a Long Engagement

Take an entire year (or longer) to identify and work on reconciling issues likely to arise during your marriage. The issue of religion -- its role in your wedding, marriage, and future family -- should be examined very closely. Discuss the religious practices you would like to continue observing, especially when you have children. Nothing need be set in stone, but it's important to be open about your expectations for the future.

2. Gather Information
Take courses in each other's religions. Even if you don't intend to practice either religion at home, the study will give you a greater understanding of each other's beliefs and assumptions.

3. Go for Counseling
Consult clergy from each of your religions, preferably someone with training in family counseling, to help you two discuss the issues you face. You could also contact a family planning organization or therapist for objective pre-wedding counseling.

4. Be Patient With Parents
If the folks are having a hard time dealing with the religious differences, try to understand that they are mourning for their own unfulfilled expectations.
Give them time to adjust to the idea, and try not to get defensive.

5. Visit Each Other's Family
Visit early, visit often. Interfaith marriage necessitates a partial "moving in" to another faith or culture. Spending time with each other's parents can be a good introductory course in what to expect.

6. Find the Right Officiant(s)
Choose an officiant (or two) who makes both of you feel comfortable and who believes in your union. Ask around -- chances are that other interfaith couples in your area have already searched for (and found) local officiants willing to perform interfaith marriages.

7. Include Both Faiths -- And Both Families
Early in the process, listen to both families' views and expectations for your wedding day. You and your sweetie should then decide how to proceed -- and lovingly (or at least nicely) discuss your choices with your families. Be open and honest with everyone from the start, so they know what you're planning and why. Many couples create a wedding program that includes explanations and transliterations of specific religious customs, so family and friends can understand and participate in unfamiliar traditions.

8. Personalize Your Ceremony
Take great care in planning the ceremony. Some interfaith couples choose to follow tradition closely, while others stray from convention. Your officiant(s) can help you design a ceremony that works for you. Work together to select readings and rituals that are significant to both of you. This tough-but-worthwhile process will do much more than solidify wedding-day plans -- you'll get a head start learning to compromise, the golden rule of marriage.

-- The Knot

source by : www.wedding.theknot.com

41 Ways to Personalize Your Ceremony

Significant and emotional, saying I do is the most important part of your wedding day. So shouldn't your ceremony be just as unique as the party? We went right to the experts for the most inspiring ceremonial touches around: that's right, real couples like you! These brides and grooms turn the standard ceremony into something spectacular.






1. Lemonade Stand
Paige and Marc, who wed on a ranch, chose a lemon theme to ensure a cheery celebration. Just before the ceremony, the couple served lemonade in big glass jars to quench guests' thirst under the hot summer sun.

2. Unity Sand
At their destination beach wedding, Lisa and Mike, who both spent many summers under the boardwalk, extinguished the unity candle idea and instead chose to combine symbolic cups of sand from their respective hometowns.

3. Breezy Read
Summer brides, take note: Jennifer and David's fan-shaped wedding programs did double duty listing the wedding party and ceremony details-and cooling off guests.

4. Hung out to Dry
Guests crossing a bridge to Becky and Aaron's ceremony had a good chuckle at the couple's childhood photos strung along a clothesline.

5. Shoeless Suitor
When Suzanne and Tripp's Jewish ceremony concluded, the "boot boy" presented a barefoot Tripp with yes, a boot, so the groom could smash the glass at their ceremony. Mazel tov!

6. Irish Blessing
Pamela and Tom's ceremony ended with the blessing of a Celtic cross, brought back from a family trip, which now hangs in their home.

7. Lucky Lady
When it was time for Elisa and David to exchange their self-written vows, the best man flipped a coin to see who would go first (it was the groom!).

8. Bribing the Bearer
Cristina and Mike's two-year-old ring bearer was a little aisle shy. So the groom did what anyone would-bribed him with candy. From the altar, Mike flashed a bag of jellybeans to coax the young boy down the aisle. Naturally, it worked.

9. Send & Deliver
Blakely and Chris' gorgeous hand-sewn programs not only included details about the wedding party (including a lengthy children's procession) and Greek Orthodox traditions, it listed their new contact information for guests to keep in touch!

10. Ceremony Cheers
Take the toast up a notch with a champagne cocktail. At Elaine and Kevin's wedding, guests were given glasses of bubbly garnished with strawberries as they entered the ceremony space.

11. Exceptional Pets
Who says weddings aren't for the dogs? Animal lovers Clayton and Andrew asked the bride's mom to escort two four-legged friends, outfitted with flowers, down the aisle.

12. Homemade Huppah
From the handcrafted woodworking of Meet the Parents fame to treasured heirloom quilts, our brides get pretty crafty with the traditional Jewish huppah. Our favorite sentimental touch? Joanna and Scott sewed together old handkerchiefs from all eight of their grandparents to create their wedding canopy.

13. Baker's Duo
Andrea and John gave rise to a new tradition: Several days before their Catholic ceremony, the couple got busy in the kitchen and baked the communion bread themselves.

14. Welcome Committee
In lieu of a receiving line, Maribeth and Erik threw tradition out the door and greeted guests arriving at the church. Even though many were surprised to see the bride before the ceremony, it helped calm Maribeth's down-the-aisle stage fright.

15. Personal Petals
Elizabeth honored her deceased father, a huge University of Tennessee fan, with a bouquet of bright orange roses-the school's signature color.

16. Holiday Spirit
Ebenezer Scrooge definitely didn't make the cut on this guest list. Before the start to Amy and Shawn's Christmas celebration, guests were welcomed into the barn where the ceremony was held with hot cocoa, holiday cookies, and Christmas carols.

17. Fountain of Youth
Emily and Sean stocked a child's red wagon with monogrammed water bottles and tied a glass to every seat at their outdoor ceremony.

18. Not-So Empty Nest
For their intimate garden-theme wedding, Joiye and Gino's rings were nestled in a delicate bird's nest woven with pale peach roses and green ribbons.

19. Bug Off
Rachel and Chris made sure guests were well equipped for the outdoor ceremony with a welcome basket filled with bug spray.

20. Exit with a Pop
Following a performance by a quartet of professional singers, actors Kendra and Eric exited the church in a shower of rather fitting theater popcorn. At Lauren and Scott's ceremony, guests were handed personalized kazoos and party horns to blow on the steps of the church.

21. Floating Flowers

Gerbera daisies given to guests at Julie and James' ceremony were later released into the nearby river. Throughout the outdoor celebration, the bobbing blooms meandered down the lazy river.

22. Paper Magic

To adorn the ceremony space, Ko's mother (despite arthritis problems) folded 1,001 white paper cranes-a traditional Japanese gift symbolizing her special wishes for the couple-over the course of his and Pamela's two-year engagement.

23. Heirloom Detail

Elizabeth asked her mother, a renowned florist, to delicately weave the bride's deceased grandmother's handkerchief into the wrap around the stems of her bouquet.

24. Seasonal Sprinkle

Be sure to greet the season. Perfect for Lourie and Carlos' October wedding, the flower girl scattered dried oak leaves to pave the way for the bridal party.

25. Streaky Cheeks

Kristine and Andrew prepared for emotional wedding tears and provided guests with tissue packages wrapped in vellum that was printed with inspirational quotations.

26. Tandem Takeoff

After exchanging vows, creative couple Erin and Peter circled loved ones on an old red Schwinn tandem bike decorated with roses-before riding off to the reception two miles away!

27. Signature Sounds

Who says you have to stick with classical ceremony music? Kristyn and Joshua walked down the aisle to the opening song from Edward Scissorhands. At Irene and Matthew's wedding, the bride's grandmother played "Amazing Grace" on the saw.

28. Recycle the Aisle

Savvy budgeters Ava and Sean reused their ceremony aisle markers-bright bouquets of peonies, blue hydrangeas, and Anna roses in moss cones-for reception centerpieces.

29. Crowd Pleaser

After their ceremony, Lee and Jeff asked all the guests to linger for a group photo that was later used as the cover for the couple's thank-you cards.

30. Wise Words

Mandy and Chris borrowed something pretty big for their wedding-they recited the same personalized vows that her parents had exchanged 40 years before.

31. Relay Race

And here's the handoff...along the winding ceremony path, Shyra's three brothers and her father stood at various intervals, waiting to escort her to the gazebo altar one by one.

32. Shady Ending

At the end of Sandra and Kevin's seaside service, all the women were given ivory Japanese parasols to shade them from the sun. Sandra carried a square-shape version, hand-painted with cherry blossoms.

33. All Aboard!

Suzanne and her bridal party set sail for the lakeside ceremony with the groom's mother at the helm. Once they docked, the women rang a cowbell to signal their arrival and waited for the groomsmen to ring back that they were ready for the procession to begin.

34. Artsy Aisle

Alyson knew she was at the right church as she walked down the aisle on a runner, beautifully hand-painted with flower vines-as well as her and Michael's names.

35. Sentimental Stones

Each guest picked up a small stone before the ceremony that Piper and JJ hand-selected from meaningful places-where they met, where they live now, and where they married-and held it during the service to make a special wish. The couple later collected the stones in a large glass vase to display in their home.

36. Home Grown

Megan and Lance, who exchanged vows under a big maple tree at her childhood home, lined the grassy aisle with flowers collected from her grandparents' garden.

37. Cool Cultures

In a nod to Sarah and Mark's diverse backgrounds, the groom carried a grain of wheat in his pocket (representing good luck and wealth in Germany) and wore a traditional lei in honor of their Hawaiian heritage.

38. Blazing Saddles

Forget the white limo! Emily's father and friends arrived at the ceremony grove on horseback, followed by the bride and her mother in a more gown-friendly horse and carriage.

39. Refrigerator Art

Jenny and Scott's ceremony programs honored a treasured attic find-they featured a picture that Scott had drawn when he was five of the mountains that coincidentally overlooked their outdoor wedding site.

40. Up In Arms

With only one parent (the bride's mother) between them still living, Michelle and Leland thought it would be great to start and end the ceremony arm-in-arm-the couple walked together over the vast lawns of the ceremony site and down the aisle of the tiny chapel.

41. Surprise Kiss

When it was time for James to kiss his bride Zoe, her sister pulled a popgun out of her knee-high stockings and shot a burst of confetti at the newlyweds just before a release of butterflies marked the end of the ceremony.

-- Kathleen Murray

source by : www.wedding.theknot.com

Bellagio Hotel and Casino – Las Vegas

What to expect at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino

When Steve Wynn created the Bellagio his intention was to create the most luxurious hotel on the planet. He did not fall far from his mark, from the marble floors to the huge skylights and the extensive gardens you forget you’re in Las Vegas. If you include the world class dining experiences and the Cirque du Soliel “O” show you realize you might not care about the rooms. Actually, they are incredible. Bellagio is about opulence and the rooms are roomy, tasteful and a little slice of heaven. All at a price, the Bellagio is one of the most expensive hotels in Las Vegas.

Get more details on the Bellagio Hotel

What you might like at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino:

Probably in the top three when it comes to rooms in Las Vegas, they are everything you would expect for top dollar. The very best restaurants on the strip can be found at Bellagio including Le Cirque, Fix, Jasmine and my favorite Olives. The restaurants at Bellagio have no comparison elsewhere on the strip. The pool area is huge and noticeably absent are the large group of teenagers that you see at other resorts.

Read Reviews of Las Vegas Hotels

What you might not like at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino:

The cost, everything at Bellagio comes at a price, room rates are high and restaurants are extremely expensive. I hate to admit that it’s worth it, but it might be. The resort as a whole might come off as a bit pretentious and that is possibly because they aim to please those with a lot more money.

Have you stayed in a Las Vegas hotel? What is your opinion? Review this hotel here.

My suggestion:

One of my favorite things to do is have lunch at Olives, on the patio, and watch the Bellagio fountains. The food at Olives is an experience in itself and you cannot find a more romantic place in all of Las Vegas.

Location: Bellagio Hotel and Casino
3600 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas
NV 89109
See a map of the Las Vegas Strip

Contact: 1-888-987-6667 , See their website

Rooms at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino:3000+ rooms and they make most others in Las Vegas look like cardboard boxes. The restrooms have huge tubs that invite long relaxing baths. The marble floors tingle your feet and the soft pillows massage your head. Put on a Bellagio robe and look out the huge windows overlooking the fountains. It is an experience. Price almost always hover over $150 per night.

Check Room Rates

Pictures: Take a photo tour of the Bellagio, Hotel Pictures

Restaurants at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino:., Restaurants, Michael Mina, Cafe Bellagio, Sensi, Circo, Le Cirque, Jasmine, Noodles, Olives, Fix, Picasso, Prime, Yellowtail and The Buffet.

Entertainment: "O" from Cirque du Soleil

Nightclubs, Lounges and Bars: Bankt, Petrossian, Caramel, Fontana Lounge, the bar at Fix
Check out the nightclubs of Las Vegas

Wedding Chapel: Yes. Wedding Chapel

Shopping:,Shopping Resources Via Bellagio, high end specialty shops

Casino/Sports Book: Yes, Poker room is spacious and very elegant. It spreads a ton of high limit games and some decent mid-range games. Daily $500 tournament as well

source by: Zeke Quazada

Honeymoon in Vegas

So you get married and you figure, "Why leave Las Vegas?" Have your very own Honeymoon in Las Vegas and think about one of these hotels for your romantic stay.

Need a Deal to Vegas? Compare Prices on Las Vegas Hotels with Kayak.com, Expedia.com or Southwest Airlines. They should give you a good idea of what you can expect to spend on a Las Vegas vacation.

Bellagio Hotel and Casino for Your Honeymoon in Las Vegas

I know predictable, I pick the hotel that is known for being very luxurious and extremely high end. Well, it's just so nice and so luxurious I would be fooling myself if I did not list the Bellagio as the one place where almost everyone would have the Honeymoon of their dreams. Order some room service, pop the champagne and fill the tub with bubble bath. Need I say more? Sure, it would cost a hefty price but realistically you should have the mindset of the couple who says this is a once in a lifetime experience. Marriage is forever, right? Read review

A Honeymoon at Binion's Hotel and Casino

You want old school when it comes to your honeymoon in Las Vegas, I can appreciate that. Just you and your partner and a few days of the Las Vegas magic the way it was intended to be enjoyed. I got it, I'm all over it. I completely understand what you're saying. Binion's is what Las Vegas was once like and it still holds a special place in the hearts of plenty of Las Vegas veterans. Grab a bucket of ice and couple of beers and sit at the roof top pool and enjoy the view. Old school honeymoon after a shotgun wedding!

THEhotel at Mandalay Bay for an Unforgetable Honeymoon in Las Vegas

If you think you need space for the recreational activities that you may take part in while on your honeymoon might I suggest THEhotel at Mandalay Bay. It is very nice, as upscale as you will need and set just right for a perfect Honeymoon in Las Vegas. You might enjoy the very large restrooms with spacious showers and a small flat screen television.

Go to Paris Las Vegas for Your Honeymoon

If romance is defined by having great meals or taking in the incredible views of the strips Paris Las Vegas is the perfect spot for you and your partner. Spend an evening at the Eiffel Tower restaurant with a view of the Bellagio fountains and fine bottle of red and you'll fall even more in love.
(source by:Zeke Quazada)

Anguilla Wedding Destination Guide

Country Overview

Anguilla, British West Indies - the island that is 'tranquility, wrapped in blue' - chosen by visionaries as the destination of choice for luxurious, five-star resorts; and by all visitors for the pervasive quality found in each level of accommodations.

Anguilla's couples seeking a special, romantic getaway find a small island, gifted with 33 of the best beaches in the Caribbean - some say the world! Tying the knot on Anguilla is as easy, relaxed and romantic as the island itself. You can marry on a cay, on a boat, at sunset, in a church, on a beach, in a restaurant or on the grounds of a luxurious resort, your own private villa, or a picturesque Caribbean hideaway hotel.{Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board}

Entry Requirements
Passports required by all nationals. Return ticket necessary.
Visas are required for certain countries. Immigration office - (264) 497-2451. Return or onward ticket necessary.

Tourism Offices
The Tourism Offices can often help provide specific details about wedding planning in Anguilla.

Anguilla Tourist Board Coronation Avenue Anguilla
Tel: 264 497 2759 Fax: 264 497 2710
Email: atbtour@anguillanet.com Web: www.anguilla-vacation.com

Anguilla Marriage Requirements

The information below outlines the marriage requirements for getting married in Anguilla.Visitors from America, Europe and any country that are allowed entry without special permission are invited to come to Anguilla for their wedding and only need be in the country for two working days before the ceremony.

Documents required for a "special" marriage license are:

• proof of citizenship such as a valid passport or birth certificate and driver's license with photo.proof of divorce or death certificate is required.

If one partner resides in Anguilla for at least fifteen days before the date of marriage, the cost of the license is US$40. If the stay is shorter, then the cost of the license is $284 stamp duty. Two witnesses are required.

Registrars Offices

The registrar's office should be contacted for specific rules regarding planning your destination or beach wedding in Anguilla. They will also provide information regarding marriage licenses and marriage certificates.

Registrar of Births, Deaths, and Marriages, Judicial Department, The Valley, Anguilla,
Tel. 264 497-2377

Anguilla Destination Wedding Quick Facts

The information below gives you those essential facts and figures that can make or break your dream trip. Don't forget to pack your travel adaptors!

General Information:
National Flag :

Anguilla Flag

Capital City:The Valley
Population: 11,147
Language:English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar. US Dollar
Electricity:110 volts
Gratuity : 10% Gratuity, 10% Gov't Tax
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time: GMT - 4 hours

Travel & Transportation:
Airports: Wallblake Airport
Ferries:
To St Martin; leaves Anguilla every 30 minutes from 7:30am.
To St Barts: leaves Anguilla 3 times per day.

Departure Taxes:
At airport: US$10.00.
At ferry: US$2.00

Anguilla Wedding Destination Maps
Location and Country Maps

The map below shows the location of Anguilla within the Caribbean.


source by: islanbrides.com

Wedding Reception Planning: Finding a Location

What should you look for in your reception site, aside from that sense of rightness you know you'll have the moment you see the perfect spot? Shopping for a site is a lot like finding a mate, a test you've obviously aced. You should be looking for the same sorts of things -- charm, personality, depth, more than just a pretty face (although looks do count!). Take along this list of what to look for -- in your head or on paper -- when you're ready to go scouting.

Roomy Fit
First, make sure the room is large enough to accommodate the number of people on your guest list. The space may look enormous when it's empty, but wedding essentials -- tables, chairs, a buffet, a bar, the band or DJ setup, the dance floor -- can take up a lot of space. Not to mention your guests, who'll need some elbow room. Even if you choose an outdoor site, you'll need ample room on the lawn, in the arboretum, or poolside. The best way to assess the size of a site? Ask to check out the place when another wedding is being set up. Of course, if you decide you must have your wedding at your favorite bar (the one with one bathroom, two booths, and three feet of floor space), you can always work backward and tailor your guest list to match.

Eating, Drinking & Partying Areas
There should be logical places within the space where guests can eat, drink, talk, and dance. See if you can envision where each activity would happen (especially if your ceremony will be there, too). If a room is too small to separate into sections accordingly, you may feel cramped. If it's shaped like an S or some other oddball figure, that could compromise your party's flow, as well. Also, note the locations of columns or other obstructions in the room -- will they block people's views?

Privacy, Please!
Privacy varies widely from place to place, as does the importance couples place on it. If you're having a daytime event in a public spot, such as a park or botanical garden, be prepared for strangers to trek past your party. They may even smile, wave, and come by to offer their good wishes. If this is okay with you (the more the merrier!), go for the park. If not, opt for a lovely lawn on a private estate. Or hold the reception at a restaurant or gallery that will post a CLOSED FOR PRIVATE PARTY sign. Be sure to inquire about available security at your site to keep gate-crashers at bay.

In addition, don't think that just because you're indoors, you're safe from uninvited guests. Banquet halls and hotels often hold more than one affair at a time. If there'll be other events going on simultaneously in rooms close to yours, you may hear karaoke-loving guests singing their hearts out to the sounds of Madonna through the walls or meet them over the hot-air dryers in the bathroom. If this bothers you, try to schedule your wedding when there won't be another one next door. If this is impossible, visit the site on a dual-party night and see how the sound carries and whether there really are any major people problems -- before you make a decision.

The site doesn't have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but it shouldn't clash or conflict with your party's mood or theme.

Seeing the Light
Light can make -- or break -- the mood. If you're marrying during the day, make sure your hall has plenty of windows. Who wants to spend six hours in a dark room when the sun is shining? If it's an evening affair, make sure the room's not too dim -- or that the lighting can be controlled for the big entrance, dinner, and dancing. If you're marrying outdoors, say, at dusk, will you be able to set up candles if necessary?

Try to visit the site at the same time of day that you've chosen for your wedding. Even if the space looks swell by candlelight, you may be surprised by the sight of that 20-year-old carpet during the day. You'll also miss a chance to see how sunlight streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows completely transforms the room, if you check it out only in the evening.

A Great View
What will your guests look at (when they're not gazing at you or smiling for the videographer)? Whether it's your city skyline, a stunning vista of rolling mountains beyond the windows, or the crashing sea on the sand behind you, exceptional locations are always a feast for the eyes. If there's no view per se, look to a place's decor or architectural details: Picasso prints on the walls, fine Persian rugs on the floors, period furniture in the corners, or an amazing crystal chandelier as the room's centerpiece all give your reception site that something extra.

The Right Color
If you're considering a certain theme and color palette for your party -- say, a Victorian tea done in pink, green, and gold -- that brown shag carpet is really going to wreck the effect. The site doesn't have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but the walls, carpets, chairs, and curtains shouldn't clash or conflict with your party's mood or theme. If you want a spring wedding brunch, look for a space that's done in light (perhaps pastel) colors or florals; black walls and red leather booths just don't say "spring." But they'll look great if you're going medieval (or 1980s, for that matter). For classic elegance, consider a room done in neutrals or black and white.

Ample Outlets
Be sure to take a thorough cruise around the room to see if it has lots of places to plug things in -- especially if you're partying in a place that's not a regular spot for hosting weddings. Your main user of outlets will be the entertainment crew. Take note of where the outlets are; if their location will force your DJ to spin records in the bathroom, make sure she or he has plenty of extension cords.

Good Vibrations
If the place is too echoey, it could give some weird reverb to the band, not to mention make it difficult for guests to hear one another talking. A tile or wood floor, for example, will amplify sounds, while a thick carpet will tend to muffle them. Check out the room's sound quality during an event. And tailor your music to the acoustic conditions. A jazz combo will sound better at an intimate art gallery than a 14-piece orchestra would (not to mention the fact that it takes up less floor space).

A Place to Park
Make sure the site is near a good parking lot, garage, or big, empty (safe) street where it's legal to park. If parking is a problem, look for other ways to get everyone to the party. Can a shuttle bus or vans take guests from the ceremony to the reception? Inadequate parking isn't necessarily a deal breaker, but it may mean spending more time and money to figure out a viable vehicular alternative.

source by : www.wedding.theknot.com

antique-unique (receptions)

Sweetheart Doves Votive Holder Centerpiece
This beautiful centerpiece features a votive candle holder which is suspended between two panels of beveled glass.

Cathys Concepts Hearts Desire Toasting Flutes
It's your wedding day: Love is in the air...
hearts are bursting...
and every detail evokes the joy of your union.
Toast to that joy with these clear glass flutes.

Crystal Knife

Contemporary Couple Cake Topper

Not impressed with the standard bride-and-groom-standing-stiffly cake topper?

Show your moves with this glass topper featuring a dancing couple.

Antique Pewter Place Card Frame

Antiqued pewter frames display your place cards in style



source by : www.todays-weddings.com

BORIS BECKER’S and “Sharlely”Lilly” wedding in St Moritz

Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker continues to strengthen ties with Switzerland, as he holds his wedding ceremony in St Moritz on Friday. The 41-year old is to marry 32-year-old Dutch model Sharlely “Lilly” Kerssenberg. Becker is resident in Zug where he runs a sports management and marketing business. His charity foundation, based at the same address, will also hold a sporting event for kids in Zurich in July.

Boris has two biracial sons, Noah and Elias, with his first wife Barbara Feltus, whom he divorced in 2001. Feltus made out like a bandit with a $14.4 million alimony settlement, a luxury seaside condo and full custody of their two sons.

Former tennis star Boris Becker is to marry his Dutch girlfriend Lilly Kerssenberg in the luxury Swiss resort of St Moritz later this week. On June 12, the three-time Wimbledon champion is set to go to the altar for his second wedding.

“Sharlely”Lilly” take a bit of a risk when it comes to choosing her wedding day attire.
Lilly Kerssenberg tied the knot with beau Boris Becker today, she turned her back on a designer wedding gown and instead wore a chic white pants suit with jacket, vest top and trousers.

Her groom, wearing a similar ensemble - but in black pinstripe - admitted he was nervous before the pair said their vows at the Segantini Museum in St Moritz, Switzerland.

The 40-year-old tennis player's sons, Noah and Elias, were in attendance for the I do's, as were well-known figures such as the Prince Albert of Monaco.


But Becker and Kerssenberg - a Dutch model - had been involved in the past, and the tennis star explained on German television that he realized he was meant to be with his ex.

Becker seems more than willing to bring his private life into the public sphere these days. In fact, the groom proposed to his girlfriend on live TV as well, while their wedding day will be broadcast on commercial network RTL.

BORIS BECKER’S WEDDING PICTURES: A FAMILY AFFAIR

German Tennis player Boris Becker, left, and his new bride Sharlely ‘Lilly’ Kerssenberg
are pictured after their marriage ceremony in Switzerland on June 12 2009


Elias the younger son of German tennis legend Boris Becker,
third left, is pictured with some family members and friends.


Actors Boris Kojoe and Nicole Ari Parker-Kodjoe were in attendance and took a picture with Becker’s mom.

source: onewed.com and blackcelebritykids.com

Wedding Vows & Readings: 20 Tips for Writing Your Own Wedding Vows

So you thought it'd be great to write your own vows, but now a healthy dose of writer's block (not to mention fear of embarrassing yourself) has hit you squarely on the h

ead. Don't know how to transform your heavy, life-altering, feelings into a string of coherent words? You're not alone -- but don't worry, your goal is within reach: Just take it one word at a time

. Here's the homework you need to do (and the questions you should ask) to make your wedding words letter-perfect.

Prep Step A: Get clearance

Make sure your officiant will accept personalized vows. Catholic and Episcopal congregations, for instance, may require you to recite all or part of the traditional vows, though in most cases that's left to the officiant's discretion. Remember: Even the most accommodating officiant will want to review your words in advance.

Prep Step B: Make a plan

You need to tackle the logistics to make sure you and your fiance are both on the same page: Are you each going to write your own, or will you write them together? Will you show them to each other before the ceremony?

Knot Note: If you're feeling shy, opt to write your vows together and even recite the exact same promises. If there's more you wish to say, privately, say it in the cards you exchange on the day of your wedding or on your honeymoon.

Prep Step C: Create your outline

An outline can help to establish a structure that you both stick to. For example, plan to first talk about how great your fiance is, then about how great you are as a couple, then about what you're vowing to each other.

Prep Step D: Find your voice

What overall tone do you want: Humorous and touching? Poetic and mushy? It's your call -- the most important thing is that your vows ring true and sound like they're from your heart.

Prep Step E: Cut it down

Finally, pick a length and stick to it by keeping the mantra pithy and to the point in mind -- anything longer than a minute or so, and no matter how gorgeous your prose, the audience will start to squirm.

Ready to Write!

What exactly do you say? To help you think of sentiments to include, take turns answering this list of questions. When you're done, look through your answers for the phrases that best capture your intended message and incorporate them into the structure of your vows.

What did you think when you first saw him/her? Start from the beginning -- you didn't want to go out and now you're grateful your friends dragged you out? How to use: When we met at __________, I knew __________.

When did you realize you were in love? The more specific you are able to be, the more touching the story. Was it when he helped you bring your sick puppy to the vet? How to use: I knew I was in love when ____________. Don't underestimate the power of humor. Throw in at least one more playful sentiment (When she recited Don Mattingly's RBI record...).

What do you have now that you didn't have before you met? Focus on the heart and head, not material possessions. Has she taught you to appreciate beauty differently? Has he helped you learn to savor creating a home-cooked meal? How to use: Before I met you, I ___________. Now I ___________.

How has your worldview changed? Life has likely gotten better since the two of you joined forces, so tell everyone about it. How to use: Because of you, I see the world __________. Having trouble? Think about the new things you've tried with your mate -- what have you experienced together that you never would have on your own?

What do you miss most when you're apart? This will probably be something mundane but powerful -- what about his smile first thing in the morning, or the way she puts out your lucky mug for your morning coffee? How to use: You are such a part of me that when you're gone, I __________.

Where do you see yourselves in 10 years? 20 years? 40 years? Go deeper than Happily married in a big house. What are your long-term hopes, dreams, and goals? How to use: I look forward to __________, laughing and __________ as we __________.

Is there a line from a movie, song, or poem that says it all? It's okay to borrow, as long as it's not too much of a cliche (we're sorry, but You complete me is suffering from overuse). Instead modify something familiar to personalize. How to use: Subtly. I watch you ________, and I think to myself, what a wonderful world.

Do parts of the traditional vows resonate with you? Maybe you're not so sure about the obey part, but can you really go wrong with love, cherish, and...? How to use: Try I promise to cherish and honor you ____________, but add a time frame and funny reference for levity: ...all the days of my life, especially when curled up on the couch with takeout.

Can you think of a funny or touching experience that put your partner in a new light? The way he played with your little cousin or helped your grandmother up the stairs showed you that under his macho exterior is a wittle, bitty bunny wabbit and you love him for it. How to use: When you ____________, I saw you for the _____________ person you are. And that made me want to ____________.

Is there a harrowing experience that strengthened your bond? This one rides tandem with #9. How to use: See #9.

What goals and values do you both have? Stating your common bond may just expose your inner Wordsworth. These ties -- whether your shared faith or your mutual love of wine -- will also help demonstrate why you're a perfect pair. How to use: We share ___________, so together we can ___________.

What about him/her inspires you? What is it about your fiance that you'd like to improve in yourself? What do you most respect about your partner? How to use: Your ___________ has shown me how to be___________.

What promise can you make to codify your devotion? Here's an opportunity to personalize your vows -- many couples pledge their endless love, but how many promise to take the dog out in the morning, even in the snow? How to use: I promise to always ___________.

How will you change together? You know what your goals are -- think about the steps the two of you will need to take together to reach them. How to use: I look forward to ___________ as we __________.

What metaphor (or simile) would capture your love? Think of something that describes or defines your love: Is it strong like a castle? Peaceful like a mountain stream? How to use: Our love is like a ___________ because it ___________.

Why are you entering the bond of marriage? Think about why marrying your fiance is so special. You may be surprised how the answer leads you to the perfect words. How to use: To me, marriage is ___________. With you, it's ___________.

What will keep your marriage strong? Find the bedrock of your relationship. What makes your relationship tick? Is it your resilience? Your shared sense of humor? How to use: Even when ___________, we will have ___________.

What are you most looking forward to about married life? The wedding is just the beginning. How to use: I look forward to ___________ as we embark on ___________.

What do you expect out of married life? Defining your expectations will help you make and keep promises. Think about your dreams, and what you'll have to vow to do to make them come true. How to use: I know our marriage will ___________ and I vow to ___________.

What words do you associate with love? Make a list of romantic terms so you can avoid overusing love -- too many repetitions dilute its power. How to use: My devotion/adoration/ passion is ___________.

be succes

source by : www. wedding.theknot.com

Claremont Wedding Cake

Modern Stacked Wedding Cakes, Combination of fruit and plain, lemon or chocolate sponge or carrot cake.

Diamante's round each tier, bow and bead top piece.

2 Tiers from only £200

3 Tiers from only £275

4 Tiers from only £350

5 Tiers from only £425

Elegantly decorated wedding cake, Uk wide personal delivery service available, contact for details, top piece included for this wedding cake but may vary.

Wedding Cake History

The Wedding Cake

In Earlier times the wedding guests would supply the cakes by bringing a small bread or cake with them to the wedding.
These were stacked, as a sign of prosperity, so the bride and groom could kiss over them for good luck.
The bride and groom today cut the first slice of wedding cake as a symbol of unity.

Traditionally the top tier of the wedding cake is kept for their first anniversary or as a christening cake for their first child.

In roman times the tradition was to throw small wheat cakes at the bride, as a symbol of fertility.
This changed to breaking the wheat cakes over the bride’s head and the bride and groom would eat the crumbs.

Guests then scrambled for the pieces of Cake in hope to secure good luck for themselves
The European tradition in Wedding cakes is mostly white, as a symbol of purity.
Wedding cakes in other cultures are often more colourful.

The Grooms Cake

This cake has been around from the Middle Ages, usually dark, solid and much smaller than the Wedding Cake. It is traditional served at the reception besides the white-tiered Wedding Cake, making a beautiful contrast of colour, taste, texture and design.

A Grooms Cake is also packed into slices ahead of time for guests to take home and for others who could not attend, so they may celebrate the couple’s good fortune.
It is also said that if a single guest puts a piece of Grooms Cake under their pillow, they will dream of their future marriage partner.

Now wedding cakes come in a wide choice of shapes and colours, they are far removed from the traditional bread and cakes of long ago.

Wedding cakes can be designed in square, round, heart, oblong, diamond, rectangle shapes or even different combinations of shapes.

For a long time the traditional wedding cake was made from a rich fruit cake covered in marzipan and icing, more and more couples are opting for less traditional wedding cakes, having sponge tiers incorporated instead of fruit.

More and more couples are having a main themed cake with one or even two cutting tiers instead of the traditional tiered wedding cakes.

source by : www.cakesbyann.co.uk/

Wedding Traditions in Indonesia

Customary Engagement Etiquette in Indonesia

An Indonesian engagement could easily last for many years. During this time, ceremonial gift giving takes place between the bride and groom's families to strengthen their familiarity.


Indonesian Wedding Ceremony

An Indonesian wedding program is a very important event. Everyone that is even slightly acquainted with the bride and groom may be invited, and this could mean thousands of guests.

The majority of invited guests do not attend the actual ceremony, but it is considered rude to be invited to the wedding reception, to share in the joy of the newlyweds, and to not attend.

Wedding Reception Celebration
There is often an elaborate processional into the reception site, which consists of a long chain of flowers. Professional dancers perform traditional Indonesian dances, while family and guests await the arrival of the newlyweds.


It is customary for the traditional Indonesian bride and groom to greet each guest in a long receiving line, before the reception festivities can begin.

by: worldweddingtraditions.com

Wedding Tradisions in Indonesia :
Sundanese Wedding Ceremony
Karo Batak Wedding Ceremonies