CWD WedBlog

Hosting a Fabulous Wedding Reception in a Struggling Economy

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:23:00 +0000

For the affluent couple planning a lavish six-figure wedding, the declining economy will have little effect on their wedding spending, but for the rest of us budget-minded folk, our failing economy and the uncertainty of a stable financial future can mean drastic cut-backs in wedding spending. Planning a wedding on a shoestring budget, however, doesn't have to skipping the day of your dreams altogether. Here are some tips on how to save a few dollars, but still have a wedding to impress.

Achieve the Right Mindset

First of all, you need to always keep in mind that the actual wedding ceremony is what's really important. Joining hands with the one you love and pledging your undying love, faith, and devotion is what this day is really all about. The rest of it - the party - is a celebration of your union, and it should be a bit more lavish than a back yard kegger, but it really is just that - a party - and sinking yourselves into debt for years to come for one night's party is simply irresponsible. Attack your wedding plans, and budget, always with the mindset that the actual ceremony is what is important and the rest of it is icing on the wedding cake.

Get Brass Tacks About the Money

Before looking into any of the individual details of planning your wedding, the two of you need to sit down together and get real about the money. Who is paying for it? How much can each of you realistically afford to spend... that's realistically, not skipping a car payment so you can spend an extra $300 on your dress! If your parents are helping out financially, what will they be paying for and how much do they plan to spend? If others are involved in paying for your wedding, then get those persons involved in the budgeting decisions from the start. Your budgeting motto should be "frugal now, financially sound later," not "party now, pay later."

Allocate Your Funds

After figuring out exactly how much you have to spend overall, begin allocating your monies to the various items and services you'll need. First, use the internet and other wedding publications to research the average costs for particular areas of planning; then, allocate your available funds.

Each of you should make a list of the five items or services that are most important to you and discuss them. The bride might decide that a ceremony in her church, ceremony vocalist, wedding dress, banquet hall, and photographer are most important for her; her groom might decide that the banquet hall, reception food, reception music, photographer, and limo service are his most important items. Begin allocating your funds with what you agree on and work your way out from there. Never, ever, attend a bridal show or begin making appointments or talking with vendors until you have a clear understanding of your the top dollar you are willing to spend in each area of planning.

The Guest List

After you've made your first (and I stress first) list of possible guests and found out your "per person" cost for your banquet hall or reception facility, begin narrowing your list. You may want to include everyone you work with, every buddy you had in college, all 25 children born to your 12 cousins, and every member of your golf league, but when it comes down to it, your reception facility will eat up a large chunk of your budget. The fewer guests you have the more your can afford to spend per person on food, liquor, and accessories. If you can, aim to cut your list of every potential guest in half. Use guidelines like "no one we haven't seen in the last five years" and "only children of immediate families" if you must, but get it done.

Learn Where to Cut Back and Where to Spend

Who doesn't want the fantasy dream wedding complete with your grand entrance on perfectly groomed white horses, adorned in a lavish $10,000 wedding gown, dripping in diamonds and sipping champagne from flowing fountains... chocolate dipped strawberries and brie for everyone! But let's get realistic. The budget-minded bride can do with just a bit less and still have a fabulous wedding. Here are a few places you can save....

Reception Costs ~ Wedding guests always rate the wedding reception based on two things... the food and the entertainment. Nothing ruins a wedding reception faster than bad food and a worse band or DJ. Consider cutting back on things like champagne fountains, sweet tables, and top-shelf booze and put that extra money into the food and the music. And take the time to interview bands/DJs before selecting one. A good DJ or band leader will not only know how to keep your guests happily entertained with music, but will also be a proficient host, emceeing the introductions and various reception events with confidence and fluidity.

The Flowers ~ Think about the last three weddings you attended. Did you attend both the ceremony and the reception, or just the reception? Do you remember the floral arrangements from the ceremony and the reception, or just the bride's and bridesmaids' bouquets and your own table centerpiece? You can save a good deal of money on your wedding flowers by putting the bulk of your floral budget into your bouquets and planning to use your large arrangements at both the ceremony and reception. Talk to your florist about how to use pew bows/adornments as table centerpieces and alter arrangements as pieces for the head table, and other essential tables.

Calligraphy or Hand-Lettering ~ Rather than paying for these services, consider doing your own hand-lettering. If you have enough time, you can even teach yourself one or two styles of calligraphy by taking a class or ordering books on the subject and simply practicing. Alternatively, it is now perfectly acceptable, IF you are detail-oriented in the task, to use your computer and printer to address envelopes and print inserts (ie: maps, registry notes, etc...). Be sure to select a font and color that coordinate with the style of your invitations.

The Gown ~ You can save a great deal of money on your wedding gown by choosing a non-traditional off-the-rack gown and having a seamstress alter it for you. Or, for the less sentimental bride, consider consignment shops, internet auction sites, or friends and family for a previously worn gown. Many large chain bridal shops offer "cheap" gowns in up-to-date styles by making them with lower cost fabrics, like polyester. You could even rent your wedding gown.

These tips can easily save a few dollars for any wedding couple, but how much you save really depends on your own initiative and will power. Try this tip.... Write yourself a sticky note, "The REAL purpose of my wedding is to marry the man [woman] I love. Do we REALLY need this purchase?" Place that sticky note right in your checkbook, on the next check to be written, and just before you're about to sign the next contract or make your next wedding purchase, force yourself to think about that purchase with this idea in mind. This might be the best way of all to save on your wedding spending!

Summer Wedding Favors

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 15:03:00 +0000

Popular Summer Wedding Favors 2008

by RS

Summer weddings in 2008 have a whole new take on trends for wedding favors. Color, bold color will be key here. Eco friendly wedding favors are the main focus no matter what month you get married in, but bold colors are where it is at this summer. Wedding favors are also playing double duty during the wedding and as a useful gift to take home.

Read more... including 3 great ideas for bold and colorful summer favors for 2008.

Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors

by papergirl

It is important to give your wedding guests a small gift or favor to show your appreciation for their support in attending your wedding. In addition to showing your appreciation to your wedding guests, why not show how much you care about ecology and our planet by giving wedding favors that eco-friendly. Here are a few ideas:

Read more... including six great favors that incorporate plants, seeds, candles, and more.

Ideas for Wedding Favors

by Susie Lee

Wedding favors are a great way to thank your guests for coming and sharing this special event with you. However, it can be hard to decide what the perfect favor should be. You will want to pick something that reflects your personalities and interests. Choosing something that goes with the theme of your wedding is also a good idea. As a wedding photographer I have attended countless weddings and have noticed some of the more outstanding wedding favors. I have listed some of them below. I hope you will find something that will inspire you to pick the perfect favor for your guests to take home....

Read more... including ideas for food favors, spa treats, practical gifts and more.

Choosing Your Wedding Cake & Pastries

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 02:02:00 +0000

Many couples choose a wedding cake designer or bakery based upon the recommendation of family or friends or are lucky enough to have that one local wedding cake designer or bakery that everyone talks about and you simply must have for your wedding. If you're not lucky enough to be in either of these positions, we suggest you ask your caterer or banquet facility manager for recommendations, rely upon the advice of a wedding planner, or focus some attention on local bakers at one or more of the Chicago bridal shows you're sure to attend.

Before meeting with a few select cake designers and/or bakeries, you should first have a style or type of cake in mind based upon the colors or theme of your wedding. If you've seen pictures of cakes that you like in magazines, by all means, plan to bring them with you. If you'll be using a cake top, purchase it in advance and plan to bring it with you, as well. Lastly, you should have a firm budget that accommodates not only your cake and any desserts you plan to order, but all additional delivery and/or set-up fees that will be charged.

When you do meet with a designer or baker, don't be afraid to ask questions. He or she will not be offended if you ask what ingredients will be used to make your cake or if it will be made fresh before your event or pre-made and frozen. You'll also want to know if your cake's decorations will be edible and what options are available for flavors and fillings for each style you like. Ask to see pictures of cakes from recent weddings, for recommendations from other couples for whom they provided services, and to taste samples of various cakes. Reputable cake designers and bakeries specializing in wedding cakes and wedding desserts will happily arrange a cake tasting for you and your fiancé based upon your likes and dislikes.

Finally, after choosing a wedding cake designer or bakery for your special event, before signing that contract on the dotted line, sit down with your designer or baker and go over every item in detail. Make sure your contract specifies an exact date, time and location for delivery and see that all delivery and set-up fees have been included. Discuss payment terms, including your deposit and when the final payment is expected. Also ensure that your contract specifies what will happen if either party does not follow through on their part of the contract; this will protect you as well as your cake designer or baker if something goes wrong.

In essence, when choosing a wedding cake designer or bakery, look for reputable a reputable professional who can offer you pictures of their work, recommendations from past customers, and samples for you to taste. Don't let your wedding cake and desserts break the budget and ensure that your final contract reflects all services and fees that are to be included. And above all, choose a cake that you will be proud and excited to share with your guests. Bon appétit!

Stupid Is As Stupid Does...Wedding Planning Mistakes You NEED to Avoid

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 14:42:00 +0000

Even the the most educated, organized, well-intentioned couples can make some of the biggest mistakes when it comes to planning their own weddings. Here are some whoppers that, with a little forethought and planning, you can avoid.

1. Spending Without a Budget
Absolutely the first thing you should do when it comes to the actual event planning is to decide together what style of wedding you want, which vendors are the most important to the both of you, how much money you can afford to spend on your event, and how to allocate those funds. Spend a little time researching general vendor costs so that you will know what to expect and then outline a budget and put it on paper. As you begin spending your money, stick to your budget. If you find you need more money than budgeted for a particular vendor, reallocate those funds from another vendor rather than over-spending altogether. Be realistic... sure, this is your wedding and you want it to be perfect, but keep these two things in mind. First, the real purpose of your wedding is to join the two of you together as husband and wife. As long as is happens, the real goal of your wedding day is achieved. Second, your wedding day really is just one day out of a lifetime of days with your partner. Do you really want to be in debt for years to come because of one party? It's nice to dream, but a lavish wedding on a shoestring budget can easily turn into financial nightmare - and a source of recurring arguments - once the party is over.

2. Not Researching Legal and/or Religious Requirements Early
Find out where and when you must obtain your marriage license. In Illinois, you must obtain your marriage licence at the County Clerk's Office in the county in which you will be married, regardless of your home address. No blood tests are required for Illinois marriages; however, even if you are a resident of Illinois, blood tests may be required if you plan to marry in another state or country. Equally important are the requirements imposed by your religious affiliation and/or the church in which you will marry. You wouldn't want to pay for flower petals to be dropped by the flower girl and then find out that your church doesn't allow it. Or show up for the ceremony in your $10,000 strapless gown and find out your church doesn't allow bare shoulders. Many churches also require pre-marital classes, as well as approval for your music selections, readings, vows, and more.

3. Choosing Bridesmaids' Attire Not Flattering for All Bridesmaids
Before you even go out on your first gown shopping trip, you should have a discussion with each and every bridesmaid as to each bridesmaid's likes and dislikes. Likely, your wedding party will be composed of bridesmaids of varying body types. Several of your bridesmaids may also feel self-conscious about a particular part of their body. Yes... you are the bride and it is your day; however, you've asked the closest of your family and friends to stand up with you and support your union. At the very least, you should want each and every one of them to feel your love and support for them as well. If you're not able to shop for dresses as a group, make sure to bring the one or two women who will best keep in mind the desires and needs of other members of the party and not simply their own.

4. Poor Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Planning
How many times have we seen blooper videos of grooms passing out during the wedding ceremony, or falling face first into the wedding cake? Getting completely trashed the night before your wedding makes for a miserable wedding day, complete with hundreds to thousands of dollars of you looking sick, faint, or simply hungover in wedding photos and videos. Momentos that were meant to remind you for a lifetime of the love you shared for one another on that special day can quickly turn into constant reminders of your insensitivity, thoughtlessness, and lack of consideration for both your spouse and guests. Make it clear - very clear - to your family and friends long before your wedding date arrives that, under no circumstance, will you attend any bachelor or bachelorette party on the night before your nuptials. Equally important is to make wise choices for your rehearsal dinner; it is just that, a rehearsal dinner, not an excuse to throw down pitchers of beer with your bridal party the night before your wedding! If you can't take seriously the ceremony - the one day - that binds you together as husband and wife for the rest of your lives, how seriously can you possibly be taking your marriage vows?

5. Asking Friends/Family to Act as Wedding Professionals
While it may be true that Uncle George takes some beautiful pictures, it is still NOT okay to ask him to act as your wedding photographer! Why, you ask? First of all, real wedding vendors are trained specifically for providing services specific to weddings. Wedding photographers, as opposed to Uncle George, know exactly which pictures to take and when to take them, as well as the etiquette involved in providing those services. Secondly, you contract with wedding professionals to provide particular services; with Uncle George, you have to hope for the best and end up doing much of the detail work (ie: photo editing, cropping, printing, etc...) yourself. With wedding professionals, you have recourse if you don't receive what you've paid for; with Uncle George, you have only hurt feelings and regret. And lastly, Uncle George is a relative and a "guest" of your special day. Shouldn't he be able to enjoy your event without the pressure of providing you with perfect wedding photos? Now, do we really need to get into why Aunt Betty shouldn't bake your wedding cake?

6. Choosing Wedding Professionals Based Solely on Price
Ever heard the phrase, "you get what you pay for?" There's probably a reason why Videographer X is only half the price of Videographer Z. Just ask to see samples of their work and you'll probably see why. When it comes to the "big" vendors (ie: reception venues, photographers, florists, bakeries, etc...), interview several in varying price ranges and compare not only samples of their work, but years of experience, references, and training/education. Also, when talking to each vendor, try to assess whether you would be comfortable working with this vendor and how well their "style" melds with your vision of your wedding day; this is especially important for vendors who will provide services throughout your wedding day (ie: photographers, videographers, djs, etc...). Your make up artist may be top of the line, but if she makes you feel ugly and self-conscious about your nose size right before your wedding pictures, who needs her!

7. Giving in to "Last Minute Beauty Panic"
No matter how "pasty" you feel the day before your wedding, do not hit the beach or tanning salon! There's nothing worse than a sun burnt bride with bad tan lines in the wedding photos. No matter how fat you feel 10 days before your wedding, do NOT go on an all-cabbage crash diet! You're dress won't fit right and you'll be weak, tired and cranky on your wedding day...and no matter how much thinner you look, who really finds beauty in a bitchy bride? No matter how large your pores look or how many fine lines you find, do NOT get an emergency microdermabrasion, chemical peel, or laser facial treatment in the week before your wedding, especially if you've never before experienced any major facial resurfacing. Scarring and pigmentary changes (light and dark patches) are common side effects of many skin rejuvenation techniques, such as laser resurfacing, dermal abrasion and chemical peels. In fact, don't even try any new facial soaps, scrubs, lotions or acne treatments in the days before your wedding. Who wants to deal with red, inflamed, irritated skin on their wedding day! Stick to what your skin knows and loves, despite the fines lines and pores, and you'll be a much happier bride. And lastly, no matter how flat your hair feels, do NOT surprise your hair dresser on the morning of your wedding with a new home perm or hair streaks. If you truly feel the need for a new look for your wedding day, discuss this with your hair dresser during your pre-wedding hair appointment and have her make any major changes needed at that time.

No matter how thoroughly you plan, some mistakes are likely to occur. Remember the real purpose of your wedding day, to marry your soul mate, As long as that happens, does anything else truly matter? If you focus on the mistakes, that's all you will remember and talk about in the coming years. Resolve to enjoy the day with the one that you love, surrounded by family and friends, no matter what small things may go wrong, and you'll look back on a wonderful day filled with love and happiness for years to come.

Colorful Summer Wedding Showers

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Fri, 25 May 2007 19:59:00 +0000

A summer wedding shower presents the imaginative host with a vast array of opportunities to create a fun and breezy afternoon event with a splash of color and excitement. If possible, host the shower outdoors and keep your palette simple with fresh foods, natural arrangements, and eco-friendly favors and decor. Think colorful, fresh, simple, and tasty and you can't go wrong.

Centerpieces ~ Mix and match a variety of bold, colorful flowers with fruits, either whole or cut, to create appealing, fragrant centerpieces. Drop berries or lemon slices in vase water, use whole lemons or perfect tangelos or minneolas in place of water, or really go the distance and create "floral" arrangements entirely out of fruits and vegetables. Feeling really adventuresome... skip the fruits and flowers altogether and bring "good chi" to your guests with gorgeous Lucky Bamboo or Money Tree centerpieces.

Favors ~ When it comes to favors, think natural, think "eco-friendly." Skip the plastic shoes, pastel mesh, and dinner mints and give your guests a gift they can truly treasure for the entire season, or even years to come. Consider wildflower seed packets, handmade paper plantables, seed cards, flower bulbs, or tree saplings. Tree saplings can be purchased rather inexpensively from the Arbor Day Foundation, www.arborday.org. Other natural options include hand-carved soaps, tea leaf infusers, soy candles, and essential oils, or continue your guests' good chi with petite Lucky Bamboo favors.

Food ~ Fresh, tasty, and light are perfect for your afternoon brunch or tea. Offer a variety of light foods, including fresh fruits and breads; a cold fruit, avocado, or cucumber soup; chicken salad or veggie/cream cheese wraps; a crisp salad sprinkled with edible flower petals, fresh berries, and a light vinaigrette dressing; and an array of scones, mini tarts, and fresh fruit sorbets. Keep it fresh, flavorful, and light for the perfect wedding shower brunch or tea.

Drinks ~ Mimosas or fruit Bellinis with fresh fruits and berries are a refreshing and colorful compliment to your fresh and tasty food selections. For late afternoon or evening events, add a Cosmopolitan or Sangria Martini to the drink menu. For a non-alcoholic option, offer a refreshing lemonade or raspberry iced tea infused with lemon ice cubes and fresh fruits and berries.

Decor ~ Simple white linens and tableware are the perfect backdrop to make your colorful palatte really pop. Keep it natural and simple. For evening/dusk showers, add soft, natural lighting to your decor; try floating candles in clear glass bowls to accent your tablescapes and chinese lanterns or candle lanterns to illuminate pathways.

Even a Computer Novice Should Get a Wedding Website

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 00:36:00 +0000

So you just got engaged. You have read in many places that a wedding website is something cool your guests will really appreciate, but you're not a computer expert. You know how to surf the web and get your email but you're definitely not ready to build a website - or so you may think.

The truth is if you can surf the web, you can create an incredible website in literally 30 seconds on www.weddings.myevent.com. It really is that easy - YOU ARE JUST FILLING IN FORMS ! Today's software makes it so easy that you don't need to know anything about programming whatsoever. You don't need to download any software either. Just go to www.weddings.myevent.com and fill in your information and click a few submit buttons and presto, your website is live on the Internet. Gathering your information, and filling in the forms will vary with how much stuff you want to put on your website. But the actual creation of the site will take less than a minute, and then you just add details and pictures whenever you want.

Don't be afraid about uploading pictures either. If you have digital pictures, it's a matter of a couple of clicks and the pictures automatically get uploaded onto your website. If you have actual photos, you can scan them onto your computer or get them scanned at any print shop.

If you have not heard why wedding websites are as essential as an invitation, you can take your pick from any of the top 10 reasons below. www.weddings.myevent.com has professional designs that cost under $100. You may just find that it's the best money you spent on your big day. There is 7 day a free trial so you can try it for free before having to pay for it. What more could you ask for ?

Make the details and maps accessible 24/7 from all over the world.

Introduce the new couple to all your guests with photos and stories.

Allow your guests to RSVP online.

Link directly to your registries online.

Provide Info for guests from out of town.

Share the big event with friends worldwide who couldn't make it.

Entertain your guests with polls and quizzes.

Reduce your stress level, by making everything available online.

Plan and track everything with great planning tools.

Enjoy the Guestbook entries that your guests will leave for you.

Thank your vendors or your parents for all their help.

To learn more, visit weddings.myevent.com

It's Not Just About the Bride ~ How to Treat Your Guests Like Royalty

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 20:04:00 +0000

So much of wedding planning is focused on the bride, the groom, and the details of the ceremony and reception that, often times, little focus is actually placed on the wedding guests. True, your wedding is a celebration you, but you're asking your family and friends to set aside their time to attend, not only your wedding, but engagement parties and showers; to spend time and money shopping for shower and wedding gifts; to arrange for travel, babysitting, etc... so that they may attend your events. Your guests are an integral part of your wedding day and deserve your time and consideration when planning your event.

Treating your guests like royalty is easy when you incorporate them into the planning process from the beginning, rather than throwing a few favors their way as an afterthought. When creating a wedding budget, one of the first things you'll need to assess is the number of guests. The cost of your reception, invitations, cake, and so many other items will depend on this number. But don't forget to budget in a little expense solely for them. Here are some very simple ways to make your guests feel as special and important as they really are and to include them in your celebration.

Prior to mailing your wedding invitations, be sure to reserve a block of rooms, both smoking and non-smoking, at one or two hotels near your wedding reception facility for your out-of-town guests. As a way of thanking your out-of-town guests for making the trip, leave a small gift box of truffles or candies in their room with a handwritten, personalized thank you note.

If you're interested in an "adult only" wedding reception, rather than excluding children from your event altogether, you might consider providing a child care alternative in a nearby room or facility. Services that specialize in special event/wedding child care offer both fun options for children, including craft workshops and tea parties, as well as peace of mind for parents. Even if children will be welcome at your reception, you might consider this option, or perhaps a "nanny" who can direct child-oriented crafts or activities on the sidelines at your event.

Your guests' favors are a direct reflection of the care and consideration you put into including them in your wedding preparations, so put some care and consideration into choosing them! A plastic shoe filled with dinner mints just doesn't say we're so thankful for you. At the same time, going above and beyond doesn't necessarily mean you need to spend a fortune on favors. Giving something unique, beautiful, creative, handmade, etc... is the key. There are any multitude of online wedding favor vendors and do-it-yourself websites just clammoring to help you find that perfect something. Here are a few that we found fun and unique:
- Wedding Guest Book Puzzles by MGCPuzzles.com
- Live Tree Seedlings from BridesandBlossoms.com
- Plantable Seed Wedding Favors from Botanical PaperWorks, Inc.
- Chocolate Treasure Chests or Vanilla Bean Wedding Cookies by Chicago's own Sarah's Pastries & Candies
- From heart-shaped truffle to chocolate bars, your edible picture printed in chocolate by Images on Confections
And don't forget your littlest guests... how about coloring books and crayons, or Matchbox Cars for boys and play makeup or jewelry for girls?

How many times have you attended a special event and have later remarked, "I was designated driver, so I got stuck drinking soda all night." Let's face it... food and drink are the staples of a wedding reception, but not all of your guests will want, or be able, to drink alcohol during the reception. Instead of leaving those guests sipping on soda, why not feature at least one non-alcoholic beer and one or two fun virgin cocktail choices, like the Pina Colada or a tasty Melon Daiquiri (or other flavoring suited for wedding theme), so that all guests may imbibe in the fun.

Be sure to personally talk with each of your guests. Greeting your guests in a reception line is nice, but not quite personal enough to make a lasting impression. During the dessert course, the bride and groom should visit each table to personally thank each guest for attending. A few minutes spent with your guests at that point will go that extra mile toward making your guests feel welcomed and will free you up later for dancing and more casual socializing with friends and family.

Because it is generally considered in poor taste for guests to take pictures during the ceremony, most of your guests will go away from your event without so much as a single picture to remember it by. Think back... how many weddings have you attended and how many photographs from those weddings do you have, let alone have you even seen? As a final touch, let your guests know how much they're appreciated by including a photograph or two from your wedding ceremony with each thank you note.

These are but a few suggestions. Depending on your own wedding budget and theme, there are likely a whole host of ways in which to honor your guests, but one of the easiest and most personal ways is a warm embrace and a heartfelt "thank you, we're so honored that you could come."

Choosing Your 2007 Wedding Date

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 19:10:00 +0000

Choosing the "right" date for your wedding can be a daunting task. Not only do the two of you need to coordinate your own schedules, but your parents' and other key people you wish to involve in your wedding may also have one or two dates that are simply out of the question for them. Add to that a variety of "holiday" dates that will keep many of your wedding guests away, or at the best, only begrudgingly present at your special event, and you're going to need a pencil with a big eraser to choose that date!

We can't coordinate the schedules of your families and friends, but we can offer a quick look at some of 2007's best and worst dates to marry to get you started.

Sunday, February 4th: Superbowl Sunday. Need we say more?

Wednesday, February 14th: Although a week day, you'll probably pay through the nose for wedding vendors and wedding night accommodations on Valentine's Day, long considered to be the most romantic day of the year.

Saturday, March 31 & Monday, April 2nd: Will the Florida Gators repeat as NCAA champions? Or will Duke, Memphis, Connecticut or Villanova take the prize? Not sure? Neither are we! But we do know that unless you want half the men at your wedding reception (and your new husband) looking for the nearest bar with a TV, this weekend, host to the 3rd most important sporting event of the year, is definitely out.

Saturday, July 7th: This one's your call. Where June 6, 2006 was considered bad luck (the dreaded 666), July 7, 2007 is considered a "good luck" date for marrying couples. As such, it is in high demand and even if you manage to book an officiant and hall for July 7th, you might need to use up all the rest of that good luck just finding a DJ, photographer, baker, etc... who isn't already booked. Might be a good idea, certainly less stressful, to avoid this date altogether and put your faith in the love you have for one another to fuel a good marriage, rather than luck!

Sunday, May 13th: Mother's Day. Your guests will probably come, but not many mother's will be thrilled with this choice of date.

Saturday, May 26th & Sunday May 27th: Memorial Day weekend. Many families will want to vacation during this typical school break/spring break time, so a few of your guests will probably decline for this reason, but other out-of-town family and friends may enjoy having such a wonderful occasion as an excuse to get away.

Sunday, June 17th: Father's Day. No less important than Mother's Day.

Wednesday, July 4th: Independence Day. Would you really want your yearly anniversary so closely intertwined with the 4th of July? Might sound like fun having all those fireworks go off during your wedding reception, but do you really want to share your wedding anniversary every year with what is arguably this country's most important holiday? If you're simply dying to have your wedding on a Wednesday, there are 51 others to choose from.

Saturday, September 1st - Monday, September 3rd: Labor Day weekend. Apart from the obvious long weekend holiday, this is also "back-to-school" for many... back-to-school shopping, packing up college kids and getting them off to school, getting younger kids back into the school-year routine, and for many, one last opportunity for a family get-away before the school year begins.

Thursday, November 22nd - Sunday, November 25th: Thanksgiving weekend. As one of the biggest travel weekends of the year, many of your guests will already have alternate plans.

Saturday, December 22nd - Monday, December 25th: Unless your heart is set on a Christmas wedding and your guest list is limited to just a few family members and friends, better to let your guests enjoy the holiday without the added stress of another holiday engagement.

Saturday, December 29th - Tuesday, January 1st: Hmm... which to choose... New Year's Eve drunkenness or New Year's Day hang overs and Bowl Game competition. How about neither! Better to let your guests ring in the new year without you.

With that said, other dates to consider taboo include your own and your betrothed's birthdays. Your wedding anniversary will become more and more special with each passing year and should be the focus of that special day. Your parents' birthdays and even your closest friends' birthdays should also be avoided, if possible. Even though your best friend might say she doesn't mind, her birthday will be just a bit less significant to you, her best friend, if your wedding anniversary takes precedent. Avoid years of hurt feelings and simply find another date that works well for all of you.

Winter Wedding (brain)Storm

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 15:40:00 +0000

So you want a crisp, brilliant, sparkling winter wedding. Sounds romantic, festive, fun... but how do you turn that idea into a reality? You really can have a winter wonderland wedding reality; it just takes a little imagination and a bit of the holiday spirit.

What to wear...
Consider a long sleeve if you'll spend any time outdoors or pair your short-sleeve, or sleeveless gown with a white fur (or faux fur) wrap or shrug. Top off your winter sparkle with a little "ice" ... diamond jewelry should complete your look. Go with an "easy-to-bustle" dress to keep your hem free of winter slush if you'll be spending any time outdoors. White is certainly crisp and beautiful, but for a more daring, vibrant look, try holiday and winter colors; reds, blues and greens can really make a stunning splash!

What to serve...
A winter feast of course! Think warm, winter comfort foods. Replace that salad course with a creamy pumpkin or squash soup or, if you simply must serve salad, top with toasted almonds or pecans and serve with a cinnamon sprinkled, cabernet poached pear and serve with warm bread and butter. Main course ideas... try a roasted chicken breast served with warm bread pudding, a grilled veal chop with winter squash and cranberry risotto, or a petit filet with giant shrimp and cilantro-lime sauce. Offer your guests warm cider, hot chocolate, or even eggnog to cap off your warm, festive occasion.

How to decorate...
Festive...festive...festive! Take advantage of the mood and joy of the holiday season and incorporate this into your occasion with the sparkling whites, silvers, reds and greens of the holiday season. String white light strands; snow spray windows and mirrors; top your cake table with a softly rumpled white cloth and sprinkle with glittery snow confetti; use pine branches, holly berries and white pillar candles for gorgeous table centerpieces; and place decorative cinnamon or pine scented candles on your gift, placecard, and guestbook tables. For those extra special touches, consider an ice sculpture, creamy mint chocolate fountain, or glass or crystal snowflake ornaments to adorn each guests placesetting. Who needs a glass shoe filled with dinner mints anyway!

In hosting a winter wedding, you can really take advantage of the good-natured, joyful atmosphere of the season. It takes only a little vision, a little imagination, and a lot of love. Cheers!

Wedding Registry Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 20:37:00 +0000

Registering for wedding gifts has become somewhat the "norm" and most wedding guests expect that the bride and grooms are registered at, at least, one store. Most large chain department stores and many smaller brick-and-mortar and online stores offer gift registry as a standard service. But even with this familiarity with the gift registry process, there are still some very important rules of etiquette that should be followed. In general, here are the basics....

Guests of your wedding and/or your wedding shower are never expected to purchase a gift for you. The gesture of giving you a gift should be warmly received by you, but it is the honor of their presence at your celebration that you are requesting with your invitation, not a gift. It is always in poor taste to expect a gift from a guest and/or to discuss what and how much was given you by any particular guest.

It is perfectly acceptible to include gift registry information inside your wedding shower invitations, however, registry information should never be included in your wedding invitations. If you won't have a wedding shower, you might want to consider, instead, creating a wedding website that includes links to your wedding registry (if purchases may be made online) or information about where you are registered. Let your guests know about your wedding website and they will find your registry information there. Those that aren't computer savvy will learn of your registry by word-of-mouth if they choose to purchase a gift for you from a registry.

It is inappropriate and in poor taste to mention to your guests that you prefer cash gifts. Some weddings guests will always give a cash gift and some will never give cash and will opt to purchase a gift for you. Both should be received with equal warmth and gratitude.

Just as it is inappropriate to request cash gifts, it equally inappropriate to tell your guests that you do not want a gift. Your guests are your family and friends...people who love you...and they want to give you a gift. If you honestly do not want wedding gifts, you might consider some alternative registry options, such as "charity registry" where your guests can make a donation to a charity that is close to your heart, or a "honeymoon registry" where your guests can make a donation toward your honeymoon or various outings available at your honeymoon destination, or the "romantic getaways registry" where guests can make gifts toward various romantic outings that you and your spouse would like to have, for example, a horse-drawn carriage ride or dinner cruise.

When creating your gift registries, be sure to include a multitude of items in the lower price ranges, say $10 - $25 items. Registering for only higher cost items is equavilent to telling your guests that you expect them to spend a good deal of money on you. Most guests will already have a price range in mind and will spend accordingly, whether it's on one higher priced item or several lower cost items bundled together in one nice little package.

If your wedding is cancelled or postponed, you should cancel or update this information on your wedding registries immediately. If your wedding invitations have already been sent, you must also notify your guests of your changed plans immediately, first notifying those who live far away and were requred to make travel arrangements to attend. Etiquette demands that all such notifications be made personally, usually with a brief note of explanation. Also worth mentioning here, if your wedding is rescheduled, you will need to start over with your wedding invitations; merely sending a note with the new date information will never pass etiquette.

Regardless your registry choices, keep in mind that it is your guests' presence at your celebration that you are requesting with your wedding invitation, not a gift. In an odd little twist, wedding etiquette already demands of the invitee, whether they are able to attend or not, that a gift be given; however, it also demands of the wedding couple that no gift be expected. And despite common practices, there is no hard and fast rule for determining the amount of money that should be spent on your wedding gift. Some guests will give more, some will give less, all will love you regardless what they give and will be happy and honored to share your joy with you.

Wedding Makeup 101

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Thu, 29 Jun 2006 17:06:00 +0000

You've imagined it a million times... you and your new husband, arm in arm, faces glowing with excitement, flash bulbs flashing, hands clapping... your wedding day. You've spent so much time (and money) selecting the perfect wedding gown, the perfect bridesmaids' gowns, the perfect hair-do and veil, but have you given any thought to your wedding makeup? You'll want to be the most photogenic you've ever been in your life on your wedding day. Here are a few tips to help you get there.

First and foremost, don't spend the day before your wedding playing volleyball at the beach! Tan lines, sunburn, and peeling are a bride's worst nightmare! If you're feeling just a bit pasty, try a light self-tanner and, for your face, a tinted moisturizer to keep your skin looking fresh with a bronzing powder to warm your skin tone. When choosing a moisturizer and foundation, keep in mind that yellow undertones work best with flash photography.

Always keep that flashbulb in mind for every makeup choice you make! Avoid makeups, powders and colors designed for a shimmering, highlighing, or glittery effect. These items, as well as light-refractive foundations, can turn your beautiful face into a shiny mess on film! Matte finishs photograph better because they don't reflect the camera's flash. To set in your look, a light brush dusting with loose powder is the perfect touch; don't use pressed powder, sponges or pads as these may over powder or smear your face and can make you look chalky.

Keep your look fresh and natural....

For eyes... Avoid the "trendy" and choose natural contouring and highlighting colors with black, brown or navy eyeliner to give you a timeless look that will endure in your wedding photos for years to come. Smudge and blend your eyeliner for a softer, more natural look.

For lashes... First use an eyelash curler to lengthen and sweep those lashes up, then one or two coats of a lash-extending, waterproof mascara. Keep your lashes clump-free by making sure your first coat of mascara dries fully before applying a second and be sure to separate any lashes that stick together. Avoid too much mascara as this tends to make your eyes look smaller and can cast shadows over your cheeks.

For brows... Fill in gaps or "over-plucked" brows lightly with a good quality eyebrow pencil and apply a brow gel or powder to finish the look. DO try using the side of the eyebrow pencil and sweeping up to create a "feathered" look for fill-ins. DON'T use a heavy eye pencil or eye shadow to define your brows; these items are simply not designed for brows and can give you a heavy or unnatural look.

For cheeks... Pink, peach and rose tones are an excellent choice. Again, avoid highlighting or shimmering powders or creams as they may make your face look shiny in photos. DON'T forget to lightly dust your forehead, nose, chin and chest for that finished look. Powder blushes are great for oily to normal skin while cream blushes work well for drier skin types.

For lips... Choose a liner just a shade darker than your lip color. Always apply your lip liner along your lip's natural lip line. Make lips fuller with your color choice as opposed to extending your lip line beyond it's natural line; "surrounding" your lips with liner only gives you clown mouth! Avoid colors that are too neutral or frosted as they can leave you looking washed out in your photos.

And lastly, keep your face looking fresh throughout the day with a little touch-up here and there, especially before a major photo session. And don't be afraid to ask your photographer for a quick face-check prior to taking any major photos. There's nothing worse than a smear of mascara in the after-ceremony photos!

A clean, natural, "matte" look will create a wedding portrait that will bring you joy for many years to come.

With This Ring, I Thee Wed

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 13:04:00 +0000

The first recorded evidence of a diamond engagement ring was that which was given to Mary of Burgundy, the daughter of Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy from 1467 to 1477, by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria, afterward the Emperor Maximilian I. It is said that Maximilian, fearful that his proposal would be declined by Mary, who had many suitors from which to choose, was advised to present Mary with a diamond upon his proposal. He did and they were married at Ghent on August 18, 1477.

Originating with the Ancient Egyptians, the "wedding ring" was used to signify ownership; upon marriage, the woman became the property of her husband for "eternity," as represented by the symbol or the circle. Traditionally, although not true for all cultures, the wedding ring is placed upon the 3rd finger of the left hand because it was believed that the vein running through that finger was directly connected to the heart, a belief also originating in ancient Egypt. King Edward VI of England designated the third finger of the left hand as the "ring finger" and in 1549 the Book of Common Prayer designated the left hand as the marriage hand.

The first wedding rings were not the expensive showpieces they are today. Today, most recommendations for the base cost of an engagement ring, typically worn with the wedding band as a set or moved to the right hand after the wedding band is placed on the left, is two to three months the groom's salary. In Ancient Egypt, however, the wedding ring was made of braided grass or hemp, leather, bone, or ivory and needed to be replaced frequently due to wear. Eventually metal was used and the wedding ring began to take on more of the role of expressing one's wealth. The first metal rings were crudely made and, perhaps to offset their clumsy, awkward construction, jewels were placed in them. Early Romans used iron to symbolize the "strength" of a man's love. Later, gold or silver were used to indicate that a man "trusted" his betrothed with his valuable belongings; the "key" shape also became fashionable to further this symbolism. Gemstones were eventually added and silver became fashionable for a brief period in the seventeenth century, but gold has long since become the mainstay.

Today, yellow gold is the most popular option for wedding rings, 24k being the purest and softest; for this reason, 14k or 18k are frequently used. Platinum is also popular for it's silver color, purity (as it is not mixed with lesser metals as is gold), and durability. Platinum, however, is much more expensive than gold and, for this reason, white gold is commonly used for those seeking the silver color as an alternative to platinum.

Diamonds, registering a 10 on the "Mohs Scale" (a scale measuring a stone's ability to resist abrasion), are the most common gemstones used to adorn the engagement ring and, less frequently, the wedding band. Rubies and sapphires are also wonderful alternatives because of their beauty and durability, both registering a 9 on the Mohs Scale. Other alternatives include emerald, topaz and some aquamarine; these stones register an 8 on the Mohs Scale. Stones of lesser strength, such as amethyst, garnet, and opal...those registering a 7 or less...are not recommended as an engagement or wedding ring is subject to daily wear.

Trendier options for wedding rings include titanium, a light-weight metal especially sought-after for men's wedding bands due to it's gunmetal gray, masculine appearance and durability, and tatooing for the statement of permanance that it embodies. Whatever your choice, long after memories of the reception fade and dust settles on your wedding album, your wedding rings will be the most lasting symbol of your marriage.

Selecting Your Flowers and Working with Your Florist

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Tue, 09 May 2006 06:39:00 +0000

While the hard and fast rules for using the right flower types and colors have long gone by the wayside, flower selection is still key in creating the right atmosphere for a wedding. Couples are encouraged to choose flowers and foliage for their meaningfulness, rather than sticking to rules or tradition. By incorporating your favorite flowers, favorite colors, flowers and foliage that remind you of a special place or time spent together, and even the meanings of various flowers, you add something very personal and special to your wedding day. That being said, there are some varieties of flowers and foliage that create beautiful, seasonal bouquets and arrangements.

Summer offers a wide variety of whites and eye-popping, vibrant colors. Consider hyacinth, sunflowers, geraniums, calla lilies, orchids, dahlias, daisies, carnations, foxglove, chrysanthemum, bachelor buttons, and baby's breath, as well as roses, in a variety of colors. Clematis and climbing roses create dramatic archways.

Autumn gives way to an exciting palette of rich, earthy tones and textures. Consider wrapping flowers and berries in rich shades of orange, rust, maroon, blue, and amber with a variety of branches, leaves and grasses in a contrasting mix of textures.

Winter weddings can include many of the same traditional wedding flowers found throughout the seasons...roses, lilies, chrysanthemums, hydrangea, freesia, gardenias, snowball, etc...at not much higher a cost. Christmas weddings provide the perfect opportunity to exploit the rich reds and greens of the season in a selection of berries, evergreens, poinsettias, and holly branches, as well as holiday ribbons and ornaments for accent. For non-holiday weddings, a variety of cool blues, silvers, whites and greens accented with eucalyptus, pine cones, ivy, fir branches, and wheat stalks truly speak the winter season.

Spring rings anew with soft, gentle pastels. Consider shades of pink, baby blues, peaches, soft yellows and greens. Springtime favorites include roses, tulips, hyacinth, lilac, jonquils, wisteria, sweet pea, daffodils, Gerber daisies, day lilies, and multi-colored calla lilies, as well as sprigs from Dogwood, Crabapple, and other flowering trees nestled in soft to deep shades of green.

Lighting also plays a key role in flower selection and is a detail frequently overlooked by busy brides and grooms. An atmosphere filled with soft lighting or candlelight will set off warm, pastel shades...pinks, lilacs, whites, golds...while a bright, lively atmosphere will only be enhanced by richer, more vibrant pinks, golds, oranges, blues, and reds.

Above all... choose a florist with whom you feel comfortable working, a florist who will work with you in bringing your vision to light. If you tell your florist that you imagine bouquets of hand-tied wildflowers and he presents you with a nosegay of roses and carnations, then find another florist! At the same time, listen to what your florist has to say. A good florist will have a multitude of ideas for flower selection, bouquet arrangements, and display accents, as well as what is in...both in style and in season...and will work with you to give you the most that your budget will allow. She may very well also know what the rules and regulations of your particular church or chapel may be; many churches will require only fresh-cut flowers be placed on the alter, if they are allowed at all.

Begin interviewing florists at least three months prior to your wedding, longer if your wedding will take place during a peak season or holiday. When interviewing florists, be sure to bring pictures of your dress and bridesmaids' dresses, as well as swatches of fabric from both. Don't be afraid to bring clippings from magazines, a list of the flowers you like, and any requirements you may have for individual needs. If orchids make your mother-in-law sneeze, you won't (or shouldn't) want to pin one her shoulder! You may also want to ask your florist about aisle runners, flower girl baskets, unity candles, etc..., as well as fees for transportation, delivery, set-up, etc.... Don't be afraid to ask questions! And always get a written quote, including detailed instructions for payment terms and all associated fees.

Selecting the Best Wedding Gown Style for Your Figure

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Sun, 16 Apr 2006 19:13:00 +0000

You definitely want to find a wedding gown with the perfect fit and style to enhance your figure. First, let's take a quick look at the basic gown silhouettes.

Princess or A-Line
The Princess or A-Line silhouette has seams starting at the bust or shoulders and flowing down to a flared skirt. The top of the dress gracefully blends into the skirt.

Sheath
This silhouette closely follows the line of the body.

Ball Gown
The Ball Gown silhouette is similar to the A-Line, only it has a much fuller skirt and typically features a full bodice that is distinctly separate from the skirt.

Empire
The Empire silhouette has a high waist look, often with a seam under the bust line and typically a slimmer skirt.

Here are some general guidelines for which silhouettes work best on each body type. You should, however, try on all silhouettes to see which styles look best on you.

Hour-Glass Figure ~ Small Waist with Larger Hips & Chest
Try: An A-Line gown paired with a v-neck or scoop neck to fully flatter your figure. A ball-gown, if the skirt isn't overly full, can also be a good choice.
Avoid: The Empire silhouette, which may hide your figure or make it look disproportioned.

Short Waisted and Petite Figures
Try: An A-Line gown which can elongate your waist and make you appear taller. Since the top of the dress gently blends into the flared skirt, it often provides a long and lean silhouette.
Avoid: A large ball gown that can make you appear smaller.

Tall and Thin
Try: A ball gown or a Sheath silhouette.
Avoid: The A-Line or Sheath silhouettes only if you want to appear less tall or thin. Overall, you can wear any silhouette.

Pear Shaped
Try: Selecting a gown that will draw attention to the upper half of your body. The Silhouette isn't quite as important as the neckline you select. Flatter your shoulders and chest while drawing focus away from hips.
Avoid: The Sheath silhouette, as it draws attention to the hips.

Full Figure and Plus Size
Try: An A-Line which will flatter practically any figure.
Avoid: Sheaths, thin straps, and sleeveless gowns. Consider a scoop or v-neck to flatter your chest and neck.

Thanks to Dream Dresses for Less for this helpful and informative article.

Planning an Outdoor Wedding?

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Fri, 07 Apr 2006 17:31:00 +0000

Summer is fast approaching and our lush midwestern surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a beautifully scenic outdoor wedding. Places to consider for your outdoor wedding can range from upscale public venues such as the Morton Arboretum, the Chicago Botanic Garden, or the Notebaert Nature Museum, to your local forest preserve or even your own backyard. Our climate, however, can be unpredictable and it is important to choose a venue that can accommodate your guests should the weather be less than desirable.

Aside from weather concerns, depending on the outdoor venue you select, a variety of factors may come into play. Does the venue you've chosen require that you obtain a permit? What limitations are imposed, if any, on food and alcohol service? Will sound or "noise" levels pose a concern for your officiant, DJ, or band? Don't be afraid to ask questions... and feel free to consult with other wedding professionals when choosing a venue. Caterers, DJs, officiants, photographers, and others who have performed at a variety of outdoor facilities may be your best resource when choosing the facility that is right for you; they will certainly know which facilities offer the best ammenities for their area of expertise.

While you've been doing the dreaming, we've been focusing on the practical. Here is our very practical, nuts-and-bolts checklist of items to consider if you are planning an outdoor wedding.

Tent ~ Obviously, if your venue doesn't offer indoor accommodations for inclement weather you will need one or more tents for protection from rain, but don't forget about the sun. Many guests, especially the elderly, will need protection from the heat and direct sun. And don't be caught unprepared on the big day...practice setting up your tent, if it is not set up for you by the rental company, prior to your wedding day.

Dance Floor ~ If your celebration will include a good deal of dancing, you may want to consider renting a dance floor.

Restrooms ~ If appropriate accommodations are not available, you may need to rent port-a-potties.

Valet Service ~ Depending on the venue, parking may become an issue. You don't want your guests to have to park and walk long distances to attent your wedding. A valet service can make all the difference, especially for your elderly guests.

Generator ~ Your DJ, band, caterer, etc... will need electricity. Ask if they will furnish or if you will need to rent.

Pest Control ~ And we're not talking about your brother-in-law! Many outdoor venues are also the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitos. You may want to spray for mosquitos, gnats, and other pests prior to the event.

Invitations ~ When having your invitations printed, be sure to include a note to let your guests know that your event will be outdoors so they may dress and prepare accordingly.

Decor ~ That bare tent will need decorating, and so will dance areas, walkways, and other paths that will be used by your visitors. Walkways and paths may also need additional lighting via tiki torches or other luminaries. Citronella candles and other up

Microphones ~ You've spent so much time writing the perfect wedding vows, it would be a shame if no on heard them!

Wedding Professionals ~ Be sure the wedding professionals you hire have experience working in outdoor conditions, especially your caterers, photographers, and videographers.

When all factors are taken into consideration, an outdoor wedding can be one of the most beautiful, delightful, and memorable occasions for both you and your wedding guests. Do you know of a beautiful outdoor location that you want to share with others? Post it here....

Here Comes the...Echo Boomer

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Sun, 02 Apr 2006 13:29:00 +0000

According to The Wedding Report 2006, in Cook County alone, an estimated 34,970 weddings will take place this year at an average cost of $31,000. DuPage County adds another 5,160 weddings. Will County increases that number by an additional 2,240 weddings and Lake County adds 4,540 more. Stretching the "Chicagoland" area even further, we see another 2,860 in Kane County, 1,260 in McHenry, 2,080 in Lake County, Indiana and 970 in Kenosha County, Wisconsin?

Based on Cook County alone, 2006 wedding consumers "will spend an average...

$2,130 on Wedding attire,

$2,703.00 on their Wedding Ceremony,

$1,277.00 on Wedding Favors & Gifts,

$1,314.00 on Wedding Flowers,

$2,012.00 on Wedding Jewelry,

$1,066.00 on Wedding Music,

$3,075.00 on Wedding Photography & Video,

$15,838.00 on their Wedding Reception,

$936.00 on Wedding Stationery, and

$651.00 on Wedding Transportation."

The Wedding Report 2006 indicates that "77% of couples will use the Internet to help plan their wedding." That's more than 3/4 of all marrying couples! And here come the Echo Boomers, the technically savvy children of the Baby Boomer generation! And, according to Gourmet Retailer Magazine, this generation has "more money to spend than any previous generations at their age -- and this group is now approaching the 'marrying age' of 27 years old."

Echo Boomers are also changing the face of the long-practiced wedding registry. In a survey conducted by Gourmet Retailer Magazine, it was learned that 92% of couples registering for wedding gifts will register at a minimum of two stores, 58% at three or more stores, and 20% at four or more stores. And where will they register? Seventy percent will choose at "a specialty home store as a top registry location, followed by 62% who list a department store, and 53% who list a mass-market retailer. Online registry continues to play an important role in where couples choose to register -- 58% register online."

Are you an Echo Boomer? How do you compare with these trends? Where will you register for wedding gifts?

The best laid plans of mice and men...

noreply@blogger.com (CWD) — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 23:31:00 +0000

One of the most difficult things for newly engaged couples to assess is when to tackle the various aspects of the wedding planning. From sharing your engagement with family and friends, to booking the reception hall, to making honeymoon arrangements...each wedding planning task has its own timeframe, and deciphering that timeframe can easily become its own task. Excited brides often try to tackle everything at once but, in doing so, are likely to forget about the small but essential details and, along the opposite vein, may turn small details into overwhelming, drawn-out complications.

If your wedding date is at least six months after your engagement, you can plan even the most elaborate wedding with a calm and collected ease. You need only follow a few simple guidelines and approach the planning process with a little organization. Visit our Planning Tools & Articles section for our own "18 Month Planning Calendar" and other helpful wedding planning articles, information, and worksheets.

The most important thing to remember is that no matter how hectic things may seem to get, you're marrying the person you love, and nothing is as important at that. The best laid plans of mice and men....