Daring Colored Wedding Dresses That Shout "I Do" -- Celebrate Your Wedding Day in Color

It isn't every day that I find an article worth republishing, but this one piqued my interest, since the person writing it clearly has some knowledge of industry trends. Really, it turned out to be a juicy little article with a bit of insider info (or at least opinion) on where wedding gown color is going ... we all know it's going somewhere, with those gorgeous red ballgowns (wish I dared!) or Maggie Sottero selling larger numbers of lovely dresses in "Midnight," aka lavender.

Plus, it's especially fun to learn a bit about what brides in the south are wearing, versus we yanks. K, that's all! Enjoy! - C&C

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By Kim Diaz

Guess which favorite wedding dress color made another strong showing on the runway this year? That's right, red. For many cultures --  especially seen in traditional Indian bridal attire and lehenga -- red's the bridal color of choice. And the always popular black-and-white gowns are the trademark of a chic and trendy bride.

More conservative markets that haven't been successful retailing red or black-and-white gowns may fare better with lavender-hued bridal wear. When asked about the inspiration for summer/spring 2009 wedding dresses and her own bridal collection, world-renowned bridal designer Reem Acra said, "Color, a lot of color. A lot of blues, greens and lavender - the link for it all was really the color. I have always believed in color."

Color can be easily infused in any bridal design, whether as a bold splash of color in the train, waist or bodice, or whether the bride's signature color is merely hinted at in the form of embroidery on a classic ivory or white canvas. Lavender's a subtle yet classic color we saw showcased on many runways across the world. As for European brides, they favor blue, or the ever-dramatic scarlet dress. Also, a popular color for the encore bride or the more couture-oriented bride is platinum silver or antique gold.

Color Trends Across the US

Since color is such a personal choice, many retailers steer clear of stocking colored wedding dresses: it's increasingly tough to estimate demand, as sought-after colors vary from year to year. Demand for colored wedding gowns also varies considerably depending on where you're located.

For example, the southern bride is typically more conservative, and doesn't readily embrace colored dresses -- not even the subtler, trendy hues like ice blue and blush pink. It's still the classic bridal styles and shades that sell best in that market.

On the other hand, the northeastern bride is seeking more runway-inspired wedding dresses and couture-influenced bridal fashions in bolder colors and designs.

Then, there are the weddings with strong multicultural influences. Other countries and cultures have long celebrated brightly-colored bridal attire, and continue to make offer bold selections along with more muted western wedding attire.

Sourcing a Hard-to-Find Color
Not to worry, though, no matter where you happen to be -- any bride can obtain her wedding dress in the color of her choice, even if the availability of colored wedding dresses is limited in her area. One option: to commission a custom made wedding dress. It's simple to add colored accents to any bridal style. This is an especially nice option, since most mass merchants like David's Bridal don't offer these specialty services.

Another option is to buy your dress online. Just because a color, size or style isn't available in your area doesn't mean you can't easily buy it in another. Marketplaces like eBay, Amazon and other great online bridal shops make it easier than ever to find just the wedding gown you're looking for.

Empress of Aisle Style

Fall Wedding Flowers on a Bare-Bones Budget

Autumn brides have always been a curious bunch, and especially interested in the types of flowers that should grace their bouquets (since ultra-traditional choices, like roses in white, pink or red, don't seem quite right).

That easy-going, nature-loving feel is popular in fall wedding bouquets. Historically that's meant seasonally-appropriate, casual blooms like zinnias, Gerbers, astilbe - often accompanied by non-floral touches like berries, twigs and maple leaves.

But what's happening now is that fall brides (and a larger proportion of all brides) are starting to wonder something else, too: not just what to put on their bouquets, but how to cut back on their costs. Here's why.

A Royal Event ... Means a Buckingham-Style Budget

The cost of fresh flowers at a wedding can be staggering. Newly-minted brides are often surprised to find that even a simple order of personal flowers only (wedding party bouquets and boutonnières) is going to run about $600 plus, not including arrangements for the ceremony or reception. That's a big step up from prom!

Now, it's that very cost that makes fresh flowers so alluring at a wedding. After all, even the comfortably-off among us don't usually live our lives surrounded by fragrant, artful florals. Flowers are beautiful, costly and rare -- just perfect for that once-in-a-lifetime event.

But with economic uncertainty hanging around like that kitchen smell after you pan-fry a salmon, brides are cutting back on flowers. They just can't justify the expense for something so short-lived.

Black-Belt Tactics for Cheaper Autumn Flowers

So if you're a fall bride who balks at $600 for personal flowers and another grand or three for the tables, what to do? Must you ask your maid of honor to grab you a sneezy clump of goldenrod ten minutes before the ceremony? Happily, no.

#1) Be Your Own Pro

Know thyself if you go this route: it's hard enough chiseling out the extra 250 hours it takes to plan a wedding without going postal. But major craft stores are always offering basic floral design classes for cheap. This is a great way to gain some confidence and practice, and get to know the quirks of several specific blooms.

#2) Go Alternative

If you emerge from one of these design classes a dab hand in whipping up boutonnières and posies, online floral wholesalers could be your ticket to lush arrangements a lower cost. Another option: try farmer's markets. Inexpensive and locally-sourced, the flowers also have the advantage of being eco-friendly. Look for mini-sunflowers and dahlias, chrysanthemums and Gerber daisies. Tip: while you're chatting with the farmers, see if they can't provide you with delectable fall wedding favors like fresh jam, maple syrup or honey in mini-jars.

But one caution: don't go this route unless you have a dedicated team of proven assistants who can save the day at the last second (thanks, Mom!). Also, this isn't for you unless you have someplace cool and dark to store your blooms until showtime.

#3) Feeling Fine In Aisle Nine

Here's a hybrid option sure to suit many autumn brides: skip the fancy table florals, and go with more bulletproof centerpieces such as pillar candles and hurricane lamps, or bare-branch arrangements. You can always ring these with heaps of rose petals or silk autumn leaves for a luxurious, fuss-free touch.

Then, for personal flowers, check out your local ... grocery store! Here, we've got a semi-legendary chain that produces amazing bouquets in several branches. The quality's top-notch -- you'd never think "grocery store bouquet" -- but the cost is wonderfully low.

And if you want to go even lower (and be even braver), Real Simple has an illustrated guide on whipping together bouquets with single stems from any grocer's floral aisle: "How to Create Beautiful Bouquets from Supermarket Flowers."

Tips For a Hollywood-Themed Sweet 16 That Won't Break the Bank

So, there's a recession on. But it's hard to marshal that bit of info when your teen comes to you with her puppy-dog eyes and a reminder that her Sweet 16's nearly here.

She wants to go Hollywood, she says -- an extremely popular party theme. (Never mind those world-weary types who sniff that it's been done. Hollywood theme sweet 16s will be over when the world gets tired of watching goddesses sashay down the red carpet on Oscar night in couture and borrowed jewels, which is to say, never.)

So, if you say yes, does this automatically mean you need to tap the 401(k) or downsize the BMW to a '94 hatchback? Absolutely not. You can pull off a party that thrills the diva near to your heart and never once have to turn to Top Ramen for dinner that month. Here's how. 

Food: Self-Cater, But Go Mini.

Parents worry that the Hollywood theme calls for uber-swanky food (should you break out the caviar?). But the truth is, it's all in the presentation: stay small. If you can hire just one or two people for a few hours -- or even coerce siblings -- into passing hors d'oeuvres and drinks from trays, your guests will be tickled pink.

But go easy on yourself: hit up a wholesale club. Stock up on pizza and sausage rolls, mini quiche, meatballs -- things you just heat up on trays. Also load up on tortillas, cream cheese and lunch meat: roll together, slice into rounds and secure with toothpicks, and you have a big crowd pleaser. (Don't bother with too much raw broccoli.) Pour something sparkly and sweet into plastic champagne or martini glasses served from trays, and you've got happy teens. 

Decorations: Bargain-Hunt Online.

The ace in the hole with these popular themes? You've got tons of props to choose from, and the price is right. Prom sites sell spectacular cardboard Hollywood sets for really reasonable prices. And once you've got a focal point, it doesn't take much to fill out the edges. Gold and black balloons are brilliant for this theme: just get latex so they'll last throughout the night. They'll fill up the corners of your room, or make impressive centerpieces when tied into "bouquets."

Then, when you shop around, everything from megaphones and clapboards to film reels and kitsch plastic Ocars can be found for under $6 each. That's a pretty cheap way to dress up tables. 

Scale: Don't Pad the List.

An exclusive guest list not only cuts down on food and beverage costs, it allows you to style a more intimate party that's easier on the bank account. Ask a hundred guys and gals, and you'll pretty much need a dance hall ... and a $100-an-hour DJ with a four-hour minimum.

But if it's mainly her BFFs, you can fill the evening with a screening of 16 Candles and fun party games that will fuel the giggles for hours, and be every bit as memorable as the mega-party -- if not more. 

Fashion: Get Your Guests in on the Act.

Your party will automatically hit higher heights if your guests show up dressing the part. They'll get to flaunt their coolest frocks and shoes; all you need to do is hand out inexpensive feather boas and oversized sunglasses to conjure up a VIP lounge. Be sure to have your digital camera charged and ready, and a photo printer if you've got one. Then, provide some clapboard-style photo frames for keepsakes. Your best-dressed guests can slide in their favorite head shots, and go home knowing their stylist hit the mark.

Want more concrete suggestions on planning a Hollywood Sweet 16, from decor to food to games? Check out our « Hollywood Theme Sweet 16 » lens for specific, sanity-saving tips.

How to Have a Candyland Sweet 16 For (Way) Less

Can we blame it all on MTV's My Super Sweet 16, like writers like to do? Not really, but the truth is that this formerly modest party has morphed into something bigger.

Maybe you're like me and can hardly remember your 16th -- mine sure wasn't a big deal -- but look around today and it's not out of the question to spend thousands on this event, not even counting the Mary-Kate & Ashley ideal of the car in a big, bright bow.

You may think the pricey event I'm describing is over-the-top, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Many parents are amping up their daughter's sweet 16 with an event rental, a DJ, and a couture-style cake. Once you splash out for all these, you need a photographer to capture them. And you can't have a ballroom party without linens ... or florals. And on and on.

If this $10,000 specter doesn't match up with your current economic reality, but your daughter wants a memorable Candyland Sweet 16, not to worry -- you can still have a cute one at home, for much, much less. Here's how to get in scads of sugary sweetness for very little cash.

The Personalized Invitations.

Pricey: A high-style Candyland invite starts with something sweet -- and personalized -- in a box. Have these made, and you're looking at $5 or $6 minimum each, mailed.

Cheap: If you do it yourself, you can order personalized wrappers off eBay, wrap chocolate bars yourself, and package in cute little boxes or bags from Papermart. (Have the wrappers pre-printed with all the party info.)

Or, hand out Whirlypops personalized with handsome card stock rounds. Make these yourself on a printer, and cut into perfect discs with a $12 craft-store circle cutter. Save even more by handing these out to friends, skipping the post office. Savings: $4 an invite.

The Super-Sweet Decor.

Pricey: Hire a venue and a four-hour DJ. Rent linens with candy-colored sashes and overlays. The tables need a focal point, so hire a florist to dye roses in bright candy colors and arrange in high-flying trumpet vases (no, I am not making this up).

Cheap: Turn your home and entryway into a virtual Candyland with clever decorations that play with scale. Your secret weapons: foam board, cellophane, balloons and paper lanterns. Even the craft-impaired, like me, can make great garlands out of giant "candies": two paper plates glued together and covered with a cellophane wrapper.

Check the web for more inflatable candy, and eBay for candy-themed balloons (they're legion). With foam board and dowels, you can easily pull together a great lollipop forest to spiff up the lawn. Amazing "cotton candy" centerpieces are simple to craft. Savings: $6000 and up.



The Main Meal. 

Pricey: Catered. It's not like you can serve your guests veggie trays in a ballroom -- you've got to at least give them passed hors d'oeuvres.

Cheap: Pizza. Believe it or not, your guests will eventually get a little sugared-out. Recharge their taste buds with lots of salty, fatty, tomato-y pizza. Savings: $20 per person and up, plus, get it delivered and save yourself the hassle.

The Dazzling Dessert.

Pricey: A three-tier Candyland dream cake with brightly fondant icing.

Cheap: Cupcakes are hot! And they don't call for a degree in structural engineering, unlike the cakes. Make them yourself with super-bright frosting in different colors (use gel coloring). For that high-end look, just pipe on the frosting with a large star tip. Then prop a pretty piece of stick candy (lollipop, swizzle stick, rock candy) into each completed creation.

Done? Now place all your lovely cuppies on a tiered pastry stand. If you don't have a stand, make one with thrifted plates you've glued together with sturdy wine glasses or candleholders in between (use Plumber's Goop to cement). Savings: $300 and up.

The Proof of  a Great Time Had By All. 

Pricey: A professional photographer to capture the Queen of the Day, and a photo booth to amuse her minions.

Cheap: Maybe you really do want a photographer to memorialize your lovely daughter. Scan Craig's List for talented snappers who want to pad their portfolio, and who'll shoot some pics ahead of time for cheap. As for your guests, create a simple backdrop (sheets), provide some props (boas, pink wigs and giant lollis), get out your digital camera and go to town. A photo printer and some gift frames to display the goods will thrill your girls. Savings: $1000 and up.

Want more tips and specific shopping spots for a visually exciting but survivable Sweet 16? Check out our « Candyland Theme Sweet 16 lens » that'll free up some planning time and leave you financially whole.

2009's Boldest, Most Beautiful Wedding Gown Trends

Finally! 2009's gowns bring brides some real choices, after several years of strapless uniformity. (Thank you, Vera Wang!) If you're the type of bride who wants a couture (or couture-inspired) gown to match the finer shades of your personality and wedding style, 2009 is the year with your name on it! Here are a few of the hottest trends going:

Crumb-Catcher Bodices.

This regal, old-world design twist came from that same lust for luxe that brought us Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette, and its subsequent style explosion in the bridal world.

Greek Goddess Columns.

The ultimate look backward, the style takes us back to the lovely goddesses (and early supermodels) of Greece's Golden Age. With plenty of glorious examples to be seen from bridal magazines to the red carpet, this style's not going away soon. Happily, it lends itself to arm bling and the half up-half down style that's still so alluring to brides. Also note: bridesmaids look amazing in goddess gowns when the bride's wearing something more structured.

Asymmetrical / One-Shouldered Styles.

These gowns are sexy attention-getters. Another hot commodity on the red carpet, the asymmetrical top adds up to an exciting departure from same-old strapless, while exuding plenty of come-hither vibes.

Subued Color Plays.

Color's no longer the domain of a bold -- or even distracting -- burst of contrast in the train or cuffed bodice of an otherwise stark-white gown. Instead, next year's color inspiration flows from Vera Wang's gowns in warm toasts and charcoals, St. Pucchi's fabulous champagne and platinum combos, or gowns that ripple with multicolored gardens of embroidery (Claire Pettibone).

The Mini.

No longer the oddball in an otherwise full-length portfolio, minis have become serious business, with layers and ruches and ruffles aplenty. Increasing number of brides find them a brilliant choice for tent weddings on the beach or in the vineyard. And let's not forget those brides who want a gorgeous but mobile second gown to get down and boogie the night away.

Five Seriously Hot Wedding Colors With a Guy-Pleasing Masculine Edge

Your fiancé has made it clear: he doesn't like pink, and won't be caught wearing it. Or lavender, or any other Easter chick color. As for you, you're not wild about the camo pattern overlays he half-jokingly proposed in response. So what to do?

For some couples, the answer is a color scheme with a distinctly non-frilly feel. Sometimes, it's masculine ... and sometimes, a really modern vibe that's satisfyingly androgynous. Here's a sampler of popular palettes that will definitely look fresh in the year ahead, and won't afflict your fiancé with sugar shock.

Navy.

It's been sadly neglected until now, partly because it so often goes nautical. But navy is making a big resurgence, and no wonder --- it's elegant and adult, and a fresh change from black. Pair navy with yellow or Kelly green in 2009, or combine with warm metallics like copper or gold.

Black & White.

Black and white continues to be huge, but 2009 will bring a greater variation in patterns. Moving on from simple black-and-white damask, we'll see more romantic toiles, modernized florals, and trendy Moroccan or henna designs -- even zebra print, in moderation. Black-and-white is so crisp and clean, you can pair it with almost any color and still stay mod. Add a broad range of purples (from eggplant to royal) for an up-to-the-minute look, or electric cobalt blue.

Chocolate Brown and Red.

Brides magazine popularized the combo this fall, and brides everywhere swooned. Here's a rich, weighty scheme with a cool-season feel that doesn't lean on the familiar fall harvest palette, and won't call for pumpkins. For small far East twist, go with burgundy and copper, and add some shiny textiles and tassels.
 

Green, Brown and White.

This classic California trio continues to thrill couples who want a natural, unfussy feel. The crisp white base avoids the woodland fantasy look, and light Asian elements like parasols and sandalwood fans bring in hints of sophistication. The green is a restful olive, not a pop-culture lime. Contemporary florals, branches and succulents plus unbleached papers and earthy textured fabrics round out the look.

Black, Platinum and Yellow.

Here's an ultimate urban palette that lends itself to all kinds of sophisticated stationery and signage. Go for a wedding logo instead of a monogram, and choose simple, repetitive centerpieces. Put the bridesmaids in black, pin yellow billy ball boutonnières on the groomsmen, and carry structural flowers like white Callas, yellow tulips and daffodils.

Wedding Planning: Clear Communication with Your Wedding Guests

By Jennifer Benson

Effective communication between you and your wedding guests is essential in the months leading up to your wedding. But in this stressful time, how can you maintain healthy relationships with your family and friends when you're flooded with questions and feeling in over your head?

You know your wedding guests ask for details because they care about you. They want to feel involved and informed during this exciting time in your life. And admit it, it's nice to have all the attention focused on you and your Big Day! Yet it can often be a bit overwhelming to answer the same questions over and over again. Or maybe you're concerned that important wedding details will be forgotten or misinterpreted.

In just a few simple steps, you can create easy and accessible sources of information specifically for and about your wedding. When your wedding guests feel informed, confusion will be minimized for them and for you. Everyone wins!

Sources of Information:

1) Both Sets of Parents - Of course, your parents will probably know all about even the most minute detail of your wedding, but remember to go over the basics to ensure that they will share accurate, up-to-date information. Chances are, your parents will receive inquiries when you're not around, so be sure to advise them of any details you wish to have passed along.

2) Bridal Party - This involves everyone from your bridesmaids and groomsmen, to your ushers and guest book attendants. Your wedding guests will definitely direct questions at these individuals, and they'll want to be ready to offer assistance.

3) Bridal Consultant or Wedding Planner - Obviously, this individual will be in tune with your wedding itinerary and details, but ensure that he or she has a quick reference to any and all questions that may be presented.

4) Personal Wedding Website or Wedding Webpage - Post all essential wedding details online so accurate information can be displayed 24/7! Send the web address of your personal wedding website to everyone on your email list. Also include the web address of your wedding website with your wedding invitations so your guests can come back often to view any new details you choose to post.

Important Details to Communicate:

1) Schedule of Events - Include expected starting dates and times for the wedding ceremony and reception, along with the appropriate addresses and phone numbers. Relay maps or driving directions and if necessary, any parking specifications or restrictions for each venue.

2) Wedding Gift Registry - Tactfully and effectively share what your wedding guests really want to know: what you need and where they can go to get it!

3) Contact Info - List the "go to" person you've delegated for any further details.

4) Allergy Alerts - A must-have if your meal selections contain ingredients that trigger well-known allergies.

5) Dress Code Guidelines - If certain dress codes are in effect, it is essential for your guests to be aware of this ahead of time.

6) Special Requests - Special care needs to be given to potentially delicate information such as "adult only" requests or "invited guests only due to limited space". These issues should be presented kindly and firmly, but in a sensitive manner.

7) Travel and Lodging Info - Share special rates you've negotiated or related accommodation details such as blocks of hotel rooms reserved under your names. You may need to supply a unique code for your wedding guests to provide at the time of booking.

8) Weather Restrictions - If any part of your wedding celebration is being held outdoors, convey all back-up arrangements should the weather not cooperate.

9) "RSVP By" Date - Have a deadline by which all RSVPs must be sent in. Set your "RSVP By" date far enough in advance that you can deliver an accurate guest count to your caterer and organize proper seating arrangements for your tables.

10) Currently Unknown Details - Your input is needed, even if you do not yet have a definite opinion or a decision made regarding a certain aspect of your wedding. Sometimes it's helpful when your wedding guests can realize that you have not yet finalized a certain element of your wedding, but will be sure to share more once you have reached a decision. This can ease the pressure put on you and your decision-making process. A personal wedding website is especially effective in these instances, since you may post a "More info coming soon!" page on your wedding website.

Your wedding guests will be thankful for the lines of communication you've established for their benefit. With this in place, you can get back to enjoying your family and friends, rather than feeling overwhelmed by their questions. Clear communication is critical to effectively plan a stress-free wedding. After all, informed guests are happy guests...and happy guests are ready to celebrate your amazing, unforgettable wedding day!

Jennifer Benson is Vice President and cofounder of WedQuarters.com Wedding Websites, a leading online wedding service provider. WedQuarters offers complete personal wedding websites, enhanced with online and toll free wedding RSVP services.

New & Hot - Your Garden Wedding

Jam-packed with ideas for your garden-theme wedding. Check it out now.

Wedding Arch Decoration Ideas -- and More

Thinking of using a wedding arch? Wedding arches are a way of emphasizing the ceremonial space, often -- though not always -- in an outdoor wedding. Many brides find them essential for a backyard, park or destination wedding.

Find a Wedding Arch

But where do you get your hands on one? Sometimes brides aren't sure where to go.

You can buy a relatively simple white, metal wedding arch at major craft stores for between $20 and $40. If you want something more elaborate -- or wooden, more like a chuppah -- you'll want to either rent from a rental shop or have your family build one for you. Most wedding arches are quick to build for someone with a little wood shop experience.

White Decorative Arch, 8 foot high, with 200 lights

White Tubular Wedding Arch, 72 inches high


If you're having a destination wedding, be sure to check out the wedding arch fees. Sometimes packages merely say, "wedding arch extra," leaving the bride to have a coronary when she finds that renting the arch costs $400 to $500 ... or (gak!) even more. If your guest list contains some handy family members, skip the exorbitant rental fees and ask them to make you a wedding arch. It's relatively easy, even on site.

An alternative to the classic arch is a balloon arch. Balloon arches can be surprisingly elegant, with understated balloons that look like pearls and a soft tulle base. Check into local balloon artists.

Or if your wedding's in the islands, try making a quick easy chuppah out of bamboo poles. Ask around at hardware or lumber stores for a local supplier. Or instead of a chuppah, simply set each post in the sand and attach ribbons organza to the top, to blow romantically in the wind.

Once your wedding arch (or structure) is ready to go, make sure it's secured properly. A gust of wind can blow your arch right over unless it's dug deeply into the soil or sand. Post hole diggers are what you want for all but the most windless days -- especially for the beach, where strong, sudden gusts are the norm.

Decorating a Wedding Arch

You buy your arch. You set it up. Your heart sinks as you wonder, "What do I do with this hard, white THING?" Not to worry. Adding a touch of magic to your wedding arch is simpler than it looks.

The Classic Arch: Many brides want to soften the hard lines of the arch. An effective way to accomplish this is to drape the arch in gauzy material base (tulle, organza) or ivy (grape vines).

Now for the fun: accents can be as simple as a large bow, a pomander ball (a.k.a., "kissing ball"), or a traditional flower arrangement at the top.

Or for a little more complexity, punctuate the arch with more floral arrangements: one for the top, and at least one at each base. Use organza to soften the "bones" of the arch and trail ivy over the organza.

The Gothic Arch: Use a simple, dark arch that comes to a dramatic point; leave the lines clean and unadorned. Hang an enormous floral kissing ball from the apex.

The Floral Arch: Covered from top to toe, the floral arch is a living sculpture that screams, "Occasion." The greens and blooms and on this arch seem to be floating in air, with the flowers appearing immensely heavy and the arch insubstantial. The floral arch is a job for the pro -- grand and expensive.

The Woodsy Arch: Add a more unexpected texture by strapping branches to the sides of your arch. Or instead of a fabric or ivy base, attach garlands of ferns.

The Beachy Arch: Beach wedding arches are often decorated in the classic style, but a beautiful alternative for your beach wedding is to attach organza in simple, free-flowing swags, and dangle large seashells and starfish from the arch (the larger, the better).

The Tropical Arch: Made entirely of palm tree fronds, the tropical arch creates a sharp, dramatic and slightly masculine silhouette.

18 Great Song Options for Your Cake-Cutting

1. Cuts Like A Knife - Bryan Adams
2. Eat It - Weird Al Yankovic
3. How Sweet It Is - James Taylor
4. I've Had The Time Of My Life - (Dirty Dancing)
5. Knock Me a Kiss - Ella Fitzgerald
6. Let Me Call You Sweetheart - Mitch Miller
7. Let's Do It - Alanis Morisette
8. Love & Marriage - Frank Sinatra
9. Pour Some Sugar on Me - Def Leppard
10. Recipe for Love - Harry Connick Jr
11. Sugar, Sugar - The Archies
12. Sweet Emotion - Aerosmith
13. Sweetest Thing - U2
14. Theme from JAWS - John Williams
15. Time of Your Life - Green Day
16. Unforgettable - Nat Cole / Natalie Cole
17. You Can Leave Your Hat On - Tom Jones
18. When I'm 64 - The Beatles

Ask the Janitor: Nurse/Police Weddings

Ask the Janitor Question from 8/8/2005:

> Hello,
> I am planning a wedding for next september 2006 and I was wondering if you had any ideas for creative favors, our wedding theme is policeman/nurse. I am a nurse and he is a policeman, we have found a cake topper, balloons, ect but we are unable to think of creative favors or center pieces. Any suggestions??
>
> - K

Find our answer to this question here:
Ideas for a Nurse or Police Theme Wedding

Save on Wedding Costs and Have That Chocolate Fountain

With chocolate fountain rental costs running neck-and-neck with the wedding cake, it's no wonder that brides set on the fountain are looking for a better way.

Chocolate fountains, once a rarity at weddings, are becoming more common -- but no less beloved. Still, they pose a budget crunch for many brides, coming in at only slightly under the cost of the wedding cake -- and that's for a one-day rental!

If you're like us, there's something that just burns our little Yankee hearts about spending over $400 to rent a machine that granted, costs a little over ten times that, but gets rented out many times. And yet if you're like us, you really want a way to fit that chocolate fountain in.

We're both in luck, because higher-end chocolate fountains are coming to the home market and becoming more accessible ... even to skinflints!

What We Didn't Buy -- And Why

You've seen the early entrants, maybe on eBay -- inexpensive chocolate fountains made by lesser-known brands selling for about eighty bucks. You've probably thought of trying one out, just because the price difference between that and a rental machine was so astronomical.

We did too, but as we read about the small, cheap versions, we ran into a lot of complaints. One of the most worrisome was that the cheap fountains made such a loud grinding noise, you couldn't have a conversation standing next to one -- which was not the ambiance we wanted for our party.

Further, we weren't sure if we wanted to keep the fountain over the long term. We wanted to buy something with good resale value so we could recapture our money if needed.

Fortunately, as our deadline approached, Sephra -- the standard in high-end rental fountains -- began offering pre-orders on their first home market fountains. We snapped one up for about $250, an attractive fountain that holds five pounds of chocolate. The fountains were so new, we had to switch our order from the lovely cherry red we'd wanted to a stainless steel in order to get it in time. But we got it.

Showtime ... And Some Helpful Hints

Once acquired, it was time to test it out in live conditions! The first party we unveiled it at was on the small side, with about 25 people. Set-up was simple. The experience did, however, teach us some tips:

Try out and get comfortable with your chocolate fountain before a really big affair. You won't really understand the logic behind the instruction book until you try it. For example:

1) The chocolate fountain really does need to be balanced to work properly. Sephra models offer adjustable feet to accomplish this. When we first set up our fountain, we were so busy we didn't level it, and it didn't flow well until an left brained type in shining armor fixed it for us. Then things worked 100% better.

2) When melting large quantities of chocolate, don't even bother with a double burner. You need a glass bowl and a large microwave, which your venue hopefully provides. Heat gently, as advised -- no higher than 50% power.

3) Also, Sephra provides you with a little tool for telling whether your chocolate's melted enough to flow well. Err on the side of "too melted" rather than "not enough." Especially given the minute or so it takes to transport it, the chocolate can easily get too thick for easy flowing.

With 25 very interested people, we nearly (but not quite) ran through our first five pounds of chocolate. So you can guesstimate needing a pound of chocolate per five invitees. Just be sure to have extra on hand.

We worried whether it would be difficult to refill the fountain -- for example, whether we would have to lug the whole thing back into the kitchen, disassemble, refill -- but it turned out to be dead simple. You just pour melted chocolate into the bottommost bowl.

Our Chocolatey Conclusions

Sephra is bringing larger versions of their fountain to the home market. For a large wedding or a party of several hundred, we would probably go with a larger version.

Yet you can also do very well with the five pound model. After all, it's hard to melt, carry and otherwise handle more than five pounds of chocolate at once (you wouldn't believe how many "chocolate chips" that is). All you need is someone willing to watch and refill periodically, which isn't hard. Pick someone who can get slightly messy without a problem -- not a bridesmaid in shiny taffeta.

If we'd had more time and a larger party, we'd probably get the largest fountain we could buy, care for it well, and resell it when the hoopla died down. That would save a huge chunk of change over the $400-500 one day rental, and bring the chocolate fountain within reach of a lot more brides (and happy guests).

And if you happen to fall in love with it and the day for selling it never comes?

Well, it happens. Just ask us.

About the Author

Blake Kritzberg is editor at "FavorIdeas.com." Stop by for a huge selection of wedding favors, Bridezilla's weekly adventures, and free resources for brides: save-the-date eCards, screensaver, wallpaper and web site templates.

For more on home market chocolate fountains, see:
http://www.favorideas.com/chocolate.htm

Keep Your Cool With Hot Bridal Accessories

By Terrie Needham

So many brides I meet and speak with each day are frustrated, some even freaking out as their wedding day draws near.

Sound familiar?

Here's what's usually going on behind the scenes: You've found the dress of your dreams, but you can't decide on how to accessorize it. Everyone has an opinion-and everyone is willing to share. Such well-intentioned advice can drive you crazy! No one teaches courses in "Bridal Accessories 101," so it's hard to rely on Mom's or your best friend's judgments -- especially when no one agrees. No wonder the months leading up to the big day are turning you into a chain-smoking, nail-biting wreck! It's the most important day of your life -- the day all eyes will be trained on you as you walk down the aisle -- and you're afraid to trust your instincts and inner voice.

That's where I come in -- and it's a role I adore. I watch trends and work as part counselor, part stylist to help each bride-to-be find just the right look. My goal? To make sure your inner glow shines through.

Here are some tips to help you stay sane and accessorize with flair.

Set the Stage
Think of your gown as a stage, and all of the accessories you select are the actors and scenery that create a smash hit. You chose your gown because it called out your name and represents who you are. Regardless of whether its style is vintage, traditional, modern or eclectic, it serves as the backdrop for the jewelry and accessories you buy.

Rule Number One
Follow your gown's motif. If, for example, your dress is adorned with radiant crystals, select jewelry with matching accents. The same goes for gowns with beading or pearls.

Color is also critical.

With taupe and gold embroidery a popular feature on this season's gowns, opt for necklaces and earrings set in glittering gold.

Shine the Spotlight
Jewelry adds sparkle and pizzazz -- the much-needed "wow" factor. You'll use it to draw attention to your best features: eyes, cheekbones, decolletage, neck, hair. You know which features your fiancé swoons over. Accent your gown by playing up these areas with the right jewels.

Before deciding on earrings, talk to your hairstylist about how you'll wear your hair. Bring your dress to the salon several months before the wedding so the two of you can come up with a plan. This will give you time to grow out your layers or bangs, if necessary.

Once your hair plan is in place, it's time to shop. If you're wearing a traditional updo--a chignon, French twist, Juliet knot or similar style--drop earrings add drama. For short hair, chic pearl or cubic zirconia studs or buttons are extremely popular. And if your long, loose-flowing tresses will be accompanied by drop-dead-gorgeous chandelier earrings, don't overpower them with a necklace. Less is definitely more! If your dress is backless, a lariat necklace that cascades down your spine is a breathtaking accessory, and earrings should be subtle.

Make sure your headpiece matches your jewelry. A tiara composed of solid rhinestones will overpower delicate pearl jewels. And if you've chosen modern jewelry dripping with cubic zirconia, a pearl headband will be too coy and traditional.

Most Importantly
Most importantly, remember that you wear your jewelry and headpiece -- they don't wear you. Choose pieces that are perfectly suited to your gown and personality. If you've never been a fan of pearls, your wedding day isn't the time to flaunt them. You're creating a pleasing package, so make sure everything works together.

About the Author

Terrie Needham owns Anna Bellagio, a leader in the bridal jewelry and accessories industry for 17 years. She loves attending fashion shows and checking out new designers so she can offer sensational, yet affordable, selections to her ever-growing customer base.

Bridal Shop Owner Reveals Insider Secrets Every Bride Should Know

By Susan Cook

Your wedding is nine months away and you decide to start searching for your perfect gown. You walk into a bridal store and start talking to one of the salespeople. They ask you for your wedding date and you tell them. They immediately tell you that you will need nine months in order to special order your wedding gown.

Is this true? In most cases, this is not true. The bridal shop is telling you that just so you will panic and place your order that day. This also helps them in stopping you from looking at other bridal shops. Don't ever be bullied into buying your wedding dress on any given day. You might have found the dress of your dreams -- but give yourself a little time to think about it. You are making a big purchase for a special day and you need to make sure that this is the dress. Even if it is just for one day, make sure you really think about it.

I have suggested to some girls to go eat some lunch, discuss it with family or friends and then come back to make your purchase. Once you buy your gown, that is it. Most shops do not allow returns or money back especially on special orders. Once you put money down on a special order, the dress is yours.

The majority of manufacturers require 8-12 weeks for a special order unless you are making drastic changes to a dress. Did you even know you could change designs on a dress? Most manufacturers will allow you to lengthen a train, shorten a train, take off some beads, or add beads. If there is something you would love to add/change to your dress, just ask the salesperson. Not all manufacturers allow this but some do. It never hurts to ask. If a bridal shop gives you a delivery date of 6 months or more, then I would be very careful.

You have decided on your perfect wedding dress and now it is time to order it. First of all I would pay one one-half of the deposit. If the shop asks for more than that then walk out. You do not want to put more then half down on something you do not yet have in your hands. Also, if the wedding is cancelled, you have lost only one-half the cost of the dress because remember --deposits on special order dresses are not refundable.

Being in the bridal business, I understand why stores ask for more then half. Weddings sometimes get cancelled or the bride decides she does not want the dress. Also, I suggest you put your deposit down with a credit card. This way if anything happens -- like the store closes down or never places your order -- then you have a way of getting your deposit back.

After you place your order and put your half deposit down, make sure you get a receipt. Also make sure that they write down the style number, color, and size down on your copy as well as the store's copy. This way you have proof of what was supposed to be ordered. When I was a bride, I picked out my bridesmaids dresses from this particular store near me. I searched for hours in bridal magazines until I finally found the perfect bridesmaids' dresses. Believe it or not, once the dresses came in, I realized the store ordered the wrong dress. This was only one month before my wedding day. Luckily we caught it in time and the store corrected the problem. It does happen, so make sure you get everything in writing.

In the next couple of days after you place your order, call the store and get an estimated delivery date. This way you can be sure they ordered it. These are estimated dates not actual dates. No one can give you an actual date. This is the real world and things do happen. When a bride places an order with us, we always call them the next day or so and give them the delivery date. Make sure you right this date down on your receipt along with the day and person you spoke with.

One hint: If you have plenty of time then I suggest you move your wedding date up one month. This will help to reassure you that the dress will come in plenty of time before your wedding. This is a trick I use myself. When I order a dress from the manufacturer, I move the wedding date up a couple of weeks just to make sure we have plenty of time to get the dress in. The manufacturer thinks they have the actual wedding date and base their delivery date on it. This gives me a couple of extra weeks to correct a problem if something does go wrong. If your wedding date is 4 months or less away, then you cannot do this because you will incur rush charges.

How to make sure your dress is new: You've found your perfect dress and although the store has the exact size and color in stock, you decide you want to order your dress new from the manufacturer instead of the store's sample. You make your down payment, the dress is ordered and you have an estimated delivery date. The bridal shop calls you to tell you your dress has arrived and you go in to try it on. Before you even try it on you notice makeup stains inside the bodice of your dress and the underskirt looks as though it has been dragged across a dirty floor.

Guess what? It's a sure bet that your dress was never ordered and they are passing off the floor sample as a new dress. At this point you should point out the problems to the shop. Refuse to take the dress and demand they order you a new dress. Never take the dress out of the store and expect to come back later to show them the problems. Once you take a dress out of the store, the dress is yours no matter what.

Sometimes when a dress comes into the shop and we unpack it, we will find dirt or stains in the dress. We notify the manufacturer immediately and they provide us with a new dress at no extra charge. If your dress came in from the manufacturer stained or dirty, you should have no problem requesting a new one. If, in fact, the store never ordered you a new dress and are trying to pass the floor sample on to you, you have every right to demand your money back or if it would satisfy you, to have the store clean it at their expense.

Always make sure you go into the store as soon as you can when your special order dress comes in. This includes bridesmaids' dresses as well. If you go in immediately then you can still get the manufacturer to replace the dress if anything is wrong. Usually most manufacturers give the shop one to two weeks to notify them if something is wrong. After the certain time frame there is nothing you or the bridal shop can do to request a new dress if something is wrong.

This is another reason to plan your wedding a year in advance. When situations do arise and things do happen then you have plenty of time to correct the problem. When dresses are ordered just 8-12 weeks prior to the wedding, if something does go wrong, it is very difficult to correct the problem.

Susan Cook is the author of "Bridal Shop Owner Reveals Insider Secrects Every Bride Should Know". For more useful tips and advice visit http://www.bridalinfo123.com. This article is a clip from her book "Bridal Shop Owner Reveals Insider Secrects Every Bride Should Know."

Planning A Wedding? Tips On How To Attend A Bridal Show

By Charity Plaster

If you're getting married, a Bridal Show is a great place to get started. Since 1996, I have attended or participated in over 150 Bridal Shows, and I thought I would pass on some tips to you, to make your trip a little easier. You can find local Bridal Shows being held anywhere from malls to hotels, convention centers and wedding facilities. You can expect to see anywhere from 10 to over 100 wedding vendors, and every single one of them is competing for your business. What to do? How to start? What to bring?

If possible, find out which vendors will be participating in the show before you attend. This will help you map out your plan of attack. Knowing who will be there in advance, as well as maybe having a layout of the show itself, you can seek out the vendors you really want to talk to, and those that aren't so important to you.

Wear comfortable shoes and leave your coat in the car. Many shows do not offer coat check and it can become quite a burden to lug your coat, your purse, your brochures, and everything else around! This is why you need to ... see next item!

Bring someone with you! Bring your Mother, a Bridesmaid, and yes, your fiancé may even enjoy himself! They can help you with collecting information and would be happy you included them in the planning process! As for your fiancé? Just tell him that he can win free stuff and eat free cake!

Other than some cake samples, and possibly appetizers, most Bridal Shows will not have food or drink available to purchase. Make sure you eat before you go, and bring a beverage.

Don't take too many people with you. They'll wander off and you'll spend all your time trying to keep everyone together instead of focusing on your goals for the day.

Bring address labels. I recommend printing out labels on your home computer with your name, address, phone number, email address and wedding date. I also recommend opening a free email account that is designated strictly for all the wedding info you will receive and then cancel them email account after you have booked all of your vendors! You can also rent a P.O. Box to handle all the wedding brochures and mailings you will receive, and then cancel the PO Box when you no longer want the mailings. However, just remember, these vendors will use the information you provide for them -- if you don't want sales pitch phone calls or mailings, simply do not give out your phone number or address! You may miss a great deal though!

Bring the following items: pen, notebook, date book, checkbook, credit card and a large tote bag to carry everything in. Many vendors offer special pricing if you book with them and leave a deposit with them the day of the show. Still not sure if this vendor is truly the one you want? Ask if they would be willing to extend the special price to you for any length of time after the show. Most vendors won't have a problem working with you. If they say no, it makes you wonder why you need to do it RIGHT THERE AND THEN! Say thank you, and pass on by. Maybe it wasn't meant to be.

Before you place that deposit, be 100% sure that you have read and agree to all the details on their contract concerning the description of what it is you are signing up for and their policies. What sounds like a great deal won't be so great if you later find out the DJ takes an hour break and your cake doesn't come with a stand!

If you plan on attending the Fashion show portion of the day, make sure you arrive at least an hour early. Seating is often first come, first serve, and if you've brought all 12 of your Bridesmaids along, you want to guarantee good seats for everyone!

If attending the Fashion Show isn't so important to you, then use that time to visit with the vendors. Since the majority of brides will be watching the show, you will have a better chance to actually talk to a vendor and it will be a much quieter atmosphere.

If you are provided with a "Bride" sticker, don't be embarrassed to wear it! It can become confusing for vendors to identify everyone that attends, and if they know you are the bride, you are more likely to get special treatment!

When filling out any contest entries or door prize drawing slips, print clearly! Who would want to miss out on winning a free limo for their wedding because no one could read your phone number?

The best place to take notes is on the actual brochure handed out by each vendor. That way you connect a face to your notes, to your brochure, and it will be easier to remember when you make your follow up calls.

Most shows will charge a nominal fee for attendance. Make sure you pre-register if the option is available, and don't be too embarrassed to call the company hosting the show to see if they offer any discounts on admission.

Enjoy yourself! It's just a bridal show! Nothing HAS to be set in stone that day. Many of the bigger shows will be crowded and noisy -- don't let this deter you! Use this time to gather information and enjoy any of the special offers extended to you. You are the Bride; you make the rules when dealing with vendors. It's YOUR day, not theirs!

About the Author

Charity Plaster is the Owner of A Charmed Event, a wedding and event planning company. She is a Certified Wedding Coordinator, Creator of a local Wedding Workshop and licensed Officiant who has helped hundreds of couples bring their dream weddings to life.