Wedding Cake Designs

The phrase wedding cake conjures up an image of a three-layered white cake with plastic figurines of the bride and groom perched on top. But that is now passé. Wedding cakes are going through a fashion makeover and new styles and designs are in vogue. With the help of a talented cake designer, there is no limit to how unique wedding cakes can be.

These days, flowers intertwined with a delicate icing are very popular. If you have a favorite flower, it can be used as the main focus of the cake’s design. You may want the flowers of your bridesmaids duplicated on the cake or the flowers in your bridal bouquet. Any talented cake designer should be able to create a beautiful cake with this design in mind. Just make sure you bring along samples of your flowers when you meet with the baker.

The color scheme of your wedding can also be incorporated into a wedding cake. You can even request that a designer try to emulate the design and style of your wedding gown into your cake. Depending on the season, your cake designer can whip up fabulous wedding cakes with snowflakes and icicles for winter, chrysanthemums, and autumn colored leaves for fall, daisies and raindrops for spring and tulips and roses for summer. Thinking in terms of fun and creativity will help achieve unique and wonderful results.

Whatever type of cake you desire, discuss your thoughts with several cake designers to ensure that what you want is what you get. If you’re not sure, let the designer give you ideas. Guaranteed they will have many wonderful suggestions.

Cake provides detailed information on Baby Shower Cake, Birthday Cake, Cake, Cake Decorating and more. Cake is affiliated with Birthday Cards.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Gluckman

All About Wedding Cakes

Buying wedding cakes will require several strategic decisions. The first thing that you will need to decide on is what type of cake you want to use. There are dozens of cake choices that you can select from. Traditionally wedding cake has been a delicately flavored cake, however, in recent years chocolate wedding cakes have become more popular. In addition to chocolate and vanilla wedding cake, you can also select from gourmet flavors like raspberry cream or mocha cream.

After selecting the type of cake that you want to use, your next decision will be what cake shape you want. Wedding cakes come in just about any shape that you can imagine. The two most commonly used wedding cake shapes are round wedding cakes and square wedding cakes. If you aren’t sure what wedding cake shape you want you may want to visit a bakery that offers wedding cakes and look through their portfolio of wedding cake designs.

After you have decided on a wedding cake shape your next step will be to select how many tiers you want your wedding cake to have. The size of your cake and the number of tiers that it will have will need to reflect how many people the cake needs to serve, as well as your budget. In addition to deciding on the number of tiers that your wedding cake will have you will also need to decide if the tiers will be stacked directly on top of one another, or if you want to use wedding cake stands. Again refer to photographs of wedding cakes that utilize both of these stacking options to help you make a decision on which method you would like to use.

Next you will want to select a wedding cake topper. Wedding cake toppers come in a variety of sizes and designs. Your wedding cake topper shouldn’t overpower your wedding cake, and it should also not be overpowered by your wedding cake. To find a cake topper that best fits your wedding cake look for one that has the design features that best reflects your wedding’s theme and design, as well as the one that best fits the overall design of your cake.

Your final decision regarding your wedding cake will be what wedding cake serving set you want to use. You have several options for cake serving sets. You can register for a wedding cake serving set along with your wedding china, you can buy a silver engraved wedding cake serving set, or you can buy a novelty wedding cake serving set that has a handle theme that matches the theme of your wedding.

Planning a wedding, bridal shower or reception? Visit the bridal resource center for tips of wedding decorations, bridal gowns and accessories, shower favors, bridal lingerie and honeymoon planning.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Freeland

Popular Bridal Accessories

You are just recently engaged and you would like to start planning your wedding. You have spoken with several vendors and have hired several of them. Although you just can not seem to find some really nice bridal accessories. Well below I have listed some really nice and unique bridal accessories that will make a perfect fit for your wedding.

Bridal Purses

Most bridal purses you can get personalized to add that little extra special touch to your wedding day. Bridal purses also make a nice unique and fun bridesmaid gift for your wedding party. Most bridal purses come with wedding day emergency kits that will most likely come in handy on your wedding day.'

Wedding garters

Most retailers carry a vast array of wedding garters to choose from. They can come theme related, personalized and many other ways that you would like. Most come with free tossing garters so you can keep your precious keepsake garter for yourself.

Handkerchiefs

Not all brides' head down the aisle with one, but if you choose to, it is considered to be a good omen. Early farmers thought a bride's wedding-day tears were lucky and brought rain for their crops. Later, it was believed that a bride who cried at her wedding would never shed another tear about her marriage. Today, handkerchiefs make great keepsake gifts that can be cherished for years to come.

Something Blue

Something old.. Something new.. Something borrowed.. Something Blue! Don't forget this tradition for your big day. Many retailers offer a great selection of something blue items to add the perfect touch to your wedding look. You can choose handkerchiefs, wedding garters, tee shirts, hats and many more items that retailers carry.

These are just a few of the many bridal accessories that will add a special touch to your wedding day. So just browse around the many retailers and we are sure that you will find the perfect bridal accessories for your wedding.

Yolanda is the owner of Yolandas wedding favors and wedding planner. She enjoys seeing all the different table decorations and wedding party favors that go along with the reception. Her online store sells many different bridesmaid gifts such as personalized tote bags, photo locket key chains, cosmetic bags and many more bridesmaid gifts. She carries a wide variety of wedding favors such as silver wedding favors, beach wedding favors, candle favors and many more wedding party favors for your wedding.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yolanda_Nash

Spring Wedding Dresses And Accessories

Spring is a glorious time of year and ideal for weddings, but how do you make sure you’re wearing the right wedding dress, are keeping your bridesmaids happy and have the right wedding accessories?

Don’t make a mess of your big day. Read on for the definitive guide to choosing wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and the all-important wedding accessories.

Choose a lightweight material

Heavier, long-sleeved winter wedding dresses are definitely out for this season. No bride wants to be sweating their way down the isle. Spring is all about lighter, airier wedding dresses, floaty and flouncy fabric giving freedom to flaunt a bit of flesh.

Pair your dress with a wrap if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Traditional or modern wedding dresses?

Opting for a lighter weight dress doesn’t mean turning your back on more traditional styles of wedding dresses. Long floating skirts or gothic gowns can combine tradition with seasonal practicality.

For a breakaway from tradition, why not go for something slim-fit? Shorter wedding dresses can also really accentuate your figure. You also don’t have to go for the traditional white. Many spring brides are choosing wedding dresses in peach, pink, baby blue and ivory.

Wedding accessories for spring

After choosing the perfect spring wedding dress, you’ll have to think about wedding accessories to match. Subtle jewellery works best for the time of year, and don’t forget seasonal flowers.

Other wedding accessories to consider are shoes. Any self-respecting bride will regard these as the most-important of wedding accessories. Some will even place shoes as more important than wedding dresses! Avoid satin, however, in case of rain.

Spring bridesmaid dresses

The same rule applies to bridesmaid dresses as applies to wedding dresses – go for light and airy and team it with a wrap. Some brides allow their bridesmaids to choose the style and colour of their own dresses.

If you want to organise this yourself, at least consult them on your decision. A perfect bridesmaid gift could be a wedding accessory they could wear on the day, such as a bracelet or necklace.

This article was written by Tony Head on behalf of BeFlirty Dresses – the UK’s number 1 online provider of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and wedding accessories.

Visit www.beflirtydresses.com to see the range of evening and formal dresses, shoes and jewellery for any occasion.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Head

Designer Wedding Dresses - Affordable Alternatives

With the average wedding in the UK costing around the £17,000 mark, it might seem that designer wedding dresses are well and truly out of reach for most brides. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still look fabulous on the most important day of your life.

So how can you balance your dream of a designer wedding dress and opulent ceremony with the reality of limited funds and modest finances?

First of all, you can still buy beautiful wedding dresses at a fraction of the cost of designer wedding dresses.

Look on the Internet. You can buy affordable designer-esque wedding dresses from reputable dress retailers, giving you more money to spend on the rest of your wedding.

Many online dress shops have discount wedding dresses and special deals on all year round. So, you could end up saving even more money and guests will still think you’re wearing something by a top designer.

Cheap wedding accessories
So once you’ve bought your dress that’s a dead-ringer for a designer wedding dress, you’ll want to save money on accessories too. Fear not, many online dress retailers will also stock cheap wedding accessories, so you can get everything in the one place.

Cheap wedding accessories don’t necessarily mean poorer quality. Jewellery, shoes, tiaras and hair pins can all be bought online for less.

So, by foregoing a designer wedding dress for an affordable (but just as attractive) alternative, and opting for cheaper wedding accessories, you can still have a gorgeous wedding on a budget.

This article was written by Tony Head on behalf of BeFlirty Dresses - the UK’s number 1 online provider of affordable alternatives to designer wedding dresses and cheap wedding accessories.

Visit www.beflirtydresses.com to see the range of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, shoes and jewellery for your big day.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Head

History of wedding invitations

The middle ages and before

Prior to the invention of the Printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in 1447, weddings in England were typically announced by means of a Town crier; a gentleman who would walk through the streets announcing in a loud voice the news of the day. Traditionally, anyone within earshot became part of the celebration.

In the Middle Ages, illiteracy was widespread and, as such, the practice of sending written wedding invitations first emerged amongst the nobility. Families of means would commission monks, skilled in the art of Calligraphy, to hand-craft their notice.

Such documents often carried the Coat of arms, or personal crest, of the individual and were sealed with wax. Even today, the addition of a crest or seal is popular in society wedding invitations and adds a touch of class.

From 1600 onwards

Despite the emergence of the printing press, the ordinary printing techniques of the time (where ink was simply stamped onto the paper using lead types) produced too poor a result for sylish invitations. However, the tradition of announcing weddings in the newspaper did become established at this time.

In 1642, the invention of metal-plate Engraving (or Mezzotint) by Ludwig von Siegen, brought high quality wedding invitations within the reach of the emerging middle classes. Engraving, as the name implies, requires an artisan to "hand write" in reverse onto a metal plate using a carving tool. The resulting engraved invitations were protected from smudging by a sheet of tissue paper placed on top; a tradition which remains to this day.

At this time, the wording of wedding invitations was more elaborate than is the case today; typically the name of each guest was individually printed on the invitation.

The Industrial Revolution

Following the invention of Lithography by Alois Senefelder in 1798, it became possible to produce very sharp and distinctive inking without the need for engraving. This paved the way for the emergence of a genuine mass-market in wedding invitations.

Wedding invitations were still delivered by hand and on horseback, however, due to the unreliability of the nascent postal system. A ‘double envelope’ was used to protect the invitation from damage en route to its recipient. This tradition remains today, despite advances in postal reliability.

Modern Times

The origins of commercially printed 'fine wedding stationery' can be traced to the period immediately following World War II, where a combination of democracy and rapid industrial growth gave the common man the ability to mimic the life-styles and materialism of society's elite. About this time, prominent society figures, such as Amy Vanderbilt and Emily Post, emerged to advise the ordinary man and woman on appropriate etiquette.

Growth in the use of wedding stationery was also underpinned by the development of thermography. Although it lacks the fineness and distinctiveness of engraving, thermography is a less expensive method of achieving raised type. This technique, often called poor man's engraving, produces shiny, raised lettering without impressing the surface of the paper (in the way traditional engraving does). As such, wedding invitations - either printed or engraved - finally became affordable for all.

Article Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_wedding_invitations

Wedding invitation

A wedding invitation is a letter asking the recipient to attend a wedding. It is typically mailed four to six weeks before the wedding date. Wedding invitations may be printed using one of the following methods: engraving, lithography, thermography, letterpress printing and sometimes blind embossing. They can also be ordered from an artist specializing in handmade cards and invitations, or for the artistically inclined can be handmade. Making handmade wedding invitations has become increasingly popular due to the rise in popularity to the cardmaking and scrapbooking craft hobbies.

Most of the time, wedding invitations are mailed in double envelopes. The inner envelope may be lined, is not gummed, and fits into the outer envelope. The outer envelope is gummed for sealing and addressing. Traditionally, the mother of the bride addresses the wedding invitations. However, if she chooses not to, the mother of the bride may outsource this responsibility to a professional calligrapher or a friend with good penmanship.

Along with the wedding invitation, the ensemble may also include a response card and envelope. The response card is traditionally used for gathering totals for the caterer and getting a general number of guests attending. The recipient is asked to mail back the response card roughly two weeks before the wedding or by the date indicated. The envelope is pre-addressed and pre-stamped by the wedding party for ease.

Other pieces often included in the ensemble are the reception card or folder, map or direction card, and accommodation information. The reception card simply lists the addresses and times of any post-wedding events, such as a cocktail hour, dinner or dance. Map or direction cards provide details about the location of the wedding and reception. The accommodation information gives helpful tips about airfare, transportation or hotel arrangements for out-of-town guests. Local attractions may be featured as well. Often the accommodation information is sent in advance with the save the dates.

A save the date is similar to an invitation and is mailed up to one year before the wedding date. Save the dates simply announce that the wedding date has been set and encourages recipients to plan for the event. It is not used as a substitute for the wedding invitation and typically mentions that an invitation will follow. The save the date can also allow you to let guests know what area of the country the wedding will be held.

In countries that issue them, the envelope may be franked with love stamps. The United States postal service issues a love stamp each year specifically denominated to cover the double weight of the invitation and reply (a rate slightly less than the cost of two regular stamps).

Article Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedding_invitation

Unique Wedding Cake Traditions

There are several wedding cake traditions that you may like to incorporate in your wedding. Every culture seems to have its own cake tradition that can be incorporated into just about any wedding cake. Here are a few for you to consider when planning your big day.

Cake Pull

The cake pull is a tradition of Southern United States weddings. Here the cake has several ribbons with charms baked throughout the cake. The charms can be both good and bad luck, although you may want to stick with good luck charms to keep the wedding party happy. The bridesmaids gather around the cake at the wedding reception and choose the end of a ribbon. They then pull the ribbon out of the cake to receive their good luck charm. The charms may represent children, travel, marriage, etc.

Stack Cake

The stack cake is the traditional wedding cake from the Appalachian Mountain region. Friends and family each bring a layer of cake and then the bride’s family will spread, apple preserves, dried apples and apple butter between each layer. The stack cake essentially appears to be a stack of pancakes. The more layers you have, the more popular the couple is considered. Other layers may be cookie dough layers to sponge cake layers. The tradition is believed to have begun in the Beaumont Inn of Harrodsburg, Kentucky.

Irish Wedding Cake Tradition

The top tier of the traditional Irish wedding cake is an Irish Whiskey Cake. This type of cake will last frozen for several months until the cake is to be used for a christening of the first child or for the first wedding anniversary.

Korean Wedding Tradition

Instead of a wedding cake, the couple may share three spoonfuls of rice. The rice represents the meals they will share for the rest of their married lives; much like the traditional wedding cake is a symbol of sharing. They then pour a Korean liquor made from rice, such as Sake, into two cups, which symbolizes the union of their souls.

Polish Tradition

At a Polish wedding, bread, wine and salt are important symbols. The bread represents the couple never being hungry. The salt is a reminder that times may be difficult, but that they will be able to cope with whatever comes along and the wine represents good health and spirits.

Russian Tradition

In a Russian wedding, the couple bites into a loaf of bread that symbolizes health, long life and prosperity. Whoever takes the biggest bite of bread is considered the one who “wears the pants” in the family!

Jamaican Wedding Cake Traditions

A traditional Jamaican wedding cake is a dark cake that has been soaked in rum for a about a year so the fruits and bread will be flavoured and moist.

Norway Wedding Cake Traditions

The Brudlaupskling is a wedding cake from Norway that dates back to the days when it was hard to find white flour on Norwegian farms. The bread is covered in a mixture of cheese, cream and syrup and then folded over and cut into squares.

Peruvian Cake Pull

This cake pull is similar to the one practiced in the Southern United States, however, at the end of one of these ribbons will be a ring which represents the puller as the next one to be married.

Ukrainian Tradition

In Ukraine, couples share korovai instead of a cake. The korovai is bread that is decorated with symbolic motifs, which present eternity and joining of the families.

Article Source : http://www.cakeswedding.co.uk/world-cake-traditions.shtml

Wedding Ceremony Music

Wedding Ceremony Music: Selecting Ceremony Musicians

On your most special day, your wedding ceremony music, at it’s very best, will enhance your cherished moments and help to create beautiful memories. Your families and wedding guests will compliment you on the music if it was beautifully and exquisitely performed. Memories of your wedding day will be greatly enhanced because of an exceptional quality performance by your solo violinist, string quartet or harpist. If your wedding is being video graphed, your wedding ceremony music needs to be of the highest quality.

Why Should You Hire Professionals for Your Wedding Ceremony Music
Articles in some recent wedding magazines have extolled the virtues of booking student performers for wedding ceremony music as cost-efficient. I would like to caution anyone planning a wedding against heeding this advise, for the following reasons:

1. Inexperienced students or semi-professional performers generally do not offer a contract for their services.
2. They are unlikely to have references to verify their reliability or punctuality.
3. They are not familiar with cues and when to stop playing.
4. They are not experienced wedding ceremony musicians - your wedding may be a learning ground for them.

What to Ask a Wedding Ceremony Music Professional
For each ensemble you are interviewing, you should ask the following of their music director, music office or representative:

1. Request a CD or tape of their music.
2. Ask for printed references from former brides or accredited entertainment industry professional agencies. You may also ask to see programs of or critical reviews from live concerts or a professional resume. These items will help to verify their professionalism and experience at past weddings, events or performances.
3. Inquire as to whether they may be performing somewhere where you can hear and meet them in person.
4. If it is a high quality ensemble which has captured your interest and their fee is a bit of a stretch for your budget, ask them of they are offering any current discounts or promotions. If they are not, you may consider reserving 1 or 2 musicians less than you had planned to have originally. If they are experienced and you like their sound this will be well worthwhile!
5. Try to get a feeling or “vibe” from their representative as to how they will treat you and all of your questions and concerns. Your impression of someone’s willingness to work with you is a very important factor. If you prefer to meet with all of your wedding vendors, be sure to ask if this is possible before the wedding.
6. Inquire about their policy on contracts, deposits and overtime fees. Find out how “locked-into” their services you will be upon a mutually signed agreement. What happens if a musician has to be replaced at the last minute due to illness? If the ensemble you are interested in hesitates when you inquire about these particular concerns, I advise you to move on. However, if you are obtaining ceremony musicians through a band or a reputable music office, whom you already trust, then knowing exactly who will be performing your wedding ceremony music need not be an issue.

By Natalie Kriegler, Music Director, The Capriccio Ensemble

Article Source : http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/selecting_musicians.asp

Traditional Wedding Invitations

White Filigree Pattern

Description:
The delicate filigree border of this bright white invitation is soft yet elegant. The rich patterned design sets the proper tone for your special day. This item is printed on a beautiful Bright White card stock. The paper type and pearl coloring cannot be changed. Easily customize this invitation with our sheer wraps or self-adhesive bows. You can choose your favorite while ordering your invitation. Lined inner invitation envelopes are also an inexpensive way to make your invitation ensemble look elegant. Available colors are displayed when filling out your order. This item is printed on a beautiful Bright White card stock. The paper type cannot be changed.

Lined inner invitation envelopes are an inexpensive way to make your invitation ensemble look elegant. Available colors are displayed when filling out your order.

Paper Type: Bright White



Pearl Embossed Roses

Description:
Flowers bloom and petals unfold with this beautiful arrangement of pearl embossed roses that surround your names on the front of this bright white invitation. Your guests will then open the invitation to hear of your good news. The pearl coloring on this invitation design is pre-printed and cannot be changed. This item is printed on a beautiful Bright White card stock. The paper type cannot be changed.

Lined inner invitation envelopes are an inexpensive way to make your invitation ensemble look elegant. Available colors are displayed when filling out your order.

Paper Type: Bright White

Article Source : http://www.1st-class-wedding-invitations.com/traditional-wedding-invitations.aspx

Beautiful Wedding Memories and Keepsakes

Your wedding is a beautiful and sacred ceremony. It is a public expression of commitment and love for another person. During the wedding ceremony, the wedding couple will make a public commitment before God, family and friends, of the beginning of a new relationship and wonderful life together as a married couple. Enjoy and cherish this time when your loved ones and friends will come together to share in this beautiful occasion.

The marriage ceremony is a very special and meaningful expression of love that will bring cherished memories for a lifetime. There is nothing more romantic and meaningful than to make a vow of commitment to another person that you love. The wedding will be full of loving, sweet, gentle and tender moments that will create lasting memories not only for the wedding couple but for the wedding guests. A wedding creates unique and wonderful moments that are important to remember through the years.

Starting a new family relationship is a major life change for a wedding couple and their family and friends. By recognizing those in the wedding party and the wedding guests, they will feel included and not like they are losing a fond relationship with the bridal couple but gaining an exciting new relationship. This is a sentimental time that everyone at the wedding will want to remember forever. It is important to create wonderful and lasting memories through photographs, video, flowers, gifts, personalized candles and keepsakes.

Bridesmaid, groomsmen, flower girl and ring bearer gifts will honor those closest to the bridal couple, especially those who have provided you both with support and love over the years. Wedding gifts for your wedding party and family can range from jewelry to personalized candles, woven tapestries and engraved gifts. Be careful to give your wedding party something that will show your appreciation and will make them remember and cherish this time in making your wedding a once in a lifetime experience. It is very thoughtful and kind to think of your guests and give them a keepsake of this wonderful occasion. There is an exciting variety of wedding favors for any wedding theme or tradition.

Personalized wedding favors and candles are keepsakes that can be used as table decorations, centerpieces or placed at each guest’s place setting. You can purchase inexpensive, personalized and unique wedding favors, or you can make your own. It is important to plan your wedding in as much detail as possible and to say thank you to the people that will witness the beginning of your new married life.

Pam Trenchard is owner of Weddings Are Fun. She specializes in Bridal Accessories, Personalized Wedding Favors, Candles and Gifts.

Article Source:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Beautiful-Wedding-Memories-and-Keepsakes&id=590555

Decorating your wedding

When it comes to decorating your wedding
ceremony or reception . . . Color Is Back

White weddings no more? This year will be the "Year Of Color" according to many wedding resources. The trend appears to be that more couples planning weddings are adding pizazz to the look of their wedding, and reception with bold, daring colors, patterns, floral arrangements, exotic cakes, and more.

It appears that the desire to wow guests is a major goal of many bride's and grooms. With wedding budgets being tossed out the window, these new high end weddings are quickly becoming a wedding fashion statement.

Weddings don't have to cost a fortune to be beautiful and fashionable. With careful budgeting, prioritizing, and perhaps the help of a consultant, you can have one of these new high fashion weddings. The celebrity wedding is really what these every day couples are striving to compete with. The media bombards us with so and sos wedding, and all the details of how expensive, and elaborate the wedding was. It's no wonder couples feel the need to "keep up with the Jones" so to speak. Don't feel bad if this is you, be proud that you have the opportunity to display your own sense of unique style.

Ways To Create Color For Your Wedding!
1. Use a colorful table runner to jazz up your guest tables
(tables perhaps already covered with rented white table cloths)
If you cannot afford a table runner for every guest table, try doing this for every other guest table in a pattern fashion. This will make sense if done in pattern.

2. Make the most of money saving greenery for part of your centerpieces. Add a dash of bold color with a few brightly colored daisies here and there. A few will go along way. If you cannot afford flowers for every guest table, then consider the every other guest table approach, while still using some greenery alone on the guest tables without flowers.

3. If flowers are not a huge part of your budget, consider the every other table approach mentioned above, or consider purchasing plain clay flower pots at a local store. Next, purchase some brightly colored spray paints (perhaps 2 or 3 different colors) and spray paint the flower pots individually with one of the colors. Perhaps some of them for example with yellow paint, some of them with the bright green paint, and some with orange. When the paint is dry, play with the pots by filling them with different colorful materials to see what you can come up with that will add some pizazz to your guest tables with the pots as your centerpiece. Things to consider filling these pots with are: unpeeled oranges, lemons, grapefruits, even bananas. This will also turn out to be centerpieces that smell great, and your guests can reach out, grab a piece, peel and eat it!

4. Use wallpaper to add color and pattern. Perhaps you can look at your local wallpaper store, or home decor store, and ask if they have wallpaper borders on clearance. If not, look anyway. Ways to use wallpaper to add pizazz! Instead of using a table runner, use a long strip of colorful, patterned wall paper, or a wall paper border to drape across the table cloth covering your guest tables. What about the isle runner for the wedding ceremony? Who needs white? Use a 3 to 4 ft. wide strip of your favorite wall paper measured to reach the full length of the ceremony isle. This is a great alternative to flower petals that don't stay in place. Your guests will not forget this one!

5. Chair covers always add a touch of class, and often come in many colors with bowes to accent them. Check with your local wedding consultant about what is available.

6. Wrap things in colorful cloth ribbon or tule. Ribbon and tule can add a lot of color, they can also hide ugly. If there's something you don't want guests to see, or you just want to jazz it up, then wrap it up!

These are just a few of the many ways to add wonderful, happy color to your special wedding day. The trend this year, is color. So, don't be afraid of bold colors, and patterns. Choose a list of complimentary colors, and stick with them for your theme.

http://www.bestweddingsites.com/Articles/0506_WeddingColors.html

Wedding Decoration

Wedding Decoration Ideas

A beautiful idea can make a world of difference to a wedding. An idea has the ability to add a dream-like quality to a wedding if required, it adds style to a wedding and makes it look different.
A wedding is a couple’s big day so every effort should be made to make it the most memorable time of their lives. There can be an idea for each aspect of the wedding starting from the theme to what the bride or groom want to wear or how they want the feel of their wedding to be.
Once the theme of a wedding is decided, everything can be color coordinated with the theme. Necklaces, glow lights, and bracelets can be used to decorate the centerpieces. There are many other ways to decorate the centerpieces. Centerpieces can be made of anything, though bowls of flowers and floating candles are very popular right now. Floating fruit candles would give the whole atmosphere a feeling of spring. Butterfly shaped floating candles can be made to swim in water and the sheer beauty of the sight can be enjoyed. Floating candlesticks can be used to give the look of a precious goblet of light.
Apart from the centerpiece ideas, some unique ideas can be used to change the mood of the wedding. Some popular ideas for weddings include: asking the guests to share a story or a moment about the couple which would either make people laugh or brush away tears, or, to create a true fairy tale effect, real butterflies or doves can be released once the couple steps outside the wedding venue. A piece of history or an age-old tradition can be incorporated in the wedding bouquet. For example, orange blossoms, which are the most traditional flowers, can be included in the bridal bouquet.
It is true that a beautiful idea can change lives and a wedding is probably one of the biggest occasions in anybody’s life. Thinking of the right ideas can certainly make the wedding truly memorable.
Wedding Decorations provides detailed information on Wedding Decorations, Wedding Reception Decorations, Wedding Decoration Ideas, Inexpensive Wedding Decorations and Supplies and more. Wedding Decorations is affiliated with Wedding Cake Designs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Morgan

Wedding accesories

Rhinestone Rondell Bead and Crystal Bracelet

Wedding Accesories - Featuring 10 rondell rhinestone beads and a beautiful crystal accented clasp and drop, the Rhinestone Rondell Bead and Crystal Bracelet is the most beautiful thing you can put on your wrist for your wedding. Elegantly designed and stunningly executed, each bracelet is handmade at the time of order.

Each bracelet is handmade at the time of order

Made of sterling silver with set rhinestones, a rhinestone rondell bead & crystal drop at closure

Measures 7 inches

Available Colors: Silver.

Cubic Zirconia Vine Drop Bracelet

Adorn your wrist with this Cubic Zirconia Vine Drop Bracelet. With its subtle jewels, this bracelet won't detract from the intricacies of your dress or brilliance of your new ring. Add the related matching earrings and necklace for a complete set, or give the entire collection as a beautiful bridesmaid's gift.

Bracelet is made of genuine cubic zirconia and rhodium

Measures 7" in length

See related items for matching necklace and bracelet

Bangle Cubic Zirconia Bracelet

This sparkling Bangle Cubic Zirconia Bracelet is the perfect accent to your wrist. Slip it on with ease to add a classic style to your wedding dress. Its simple yet elegant design will have you wearing it again and again, long after your special day.

Made of cubic zirconia and rhodium

Measures 2.5"D

Clasp is snap and release

www.bridalpeople.com

Wedding decorations - Candles

Floating Hydrangea Candles

Wedding decorations - Add that touch of romance to your spring wedding and decorate each table with these Floating Hydrangea Candles. You will love the glow they give off and how each candle fits with the theme of your special day. This is just what you need for that simple elegance you have been craving.

Set of 5 (one of each color - white, blue, pink, yellow and green)

Burn time approx. 4.5 hours each

Made of wax

Measures 1.5"h x 3"dia. each

Pair of Blue Heart Candles in Favor Bag

Pair of Blue Heart Candles that come tucked inside a sheer organza bag with a ribbon draw string and light blue heart accent. A unique wedding favor idea for any celebration.

Bag Measures 3 1/2" x 4 1/2"

Water Candles

This unique set of floating water candles create the illusion of invisible floating candles. These will make a great wedding reception table decoration resting inside a dinner glass or flower vase. Including 5 floating discs per box with 800 plus hours of burning time. Oil must be supplied separately.

www.bridalpeople.com

Wedding decorations

blown glass salt and pepper shakers
as seen in InStyle Magazine

Wedding decoration - a lovely pair ~ Just like the bride and groom, these mini salt and pepper shakers make a lovely pair. Each shaker is crafted by hand using a technique called lampworking. The artist works the glass over a small flame of intense heat, adding luxuriant colors, blowing and shaping the piece to the desired form. These shakers are truly art-inspired gifts that will be treasured by your loved ones for many years to come. They are popular as holiday gifts, bridal party gifts or as guest favors at bridal showers and wedding receptions.

Each shaker stands approximately 1.75 inches tall and comes with a non-corrosive chrome top, turning the bottle into a functional piece of art. Present each pair in a mini rectangular embossed favor box (sold separately) for a lovely gift. You can also purchase mini presentation trays to display these beautiful shakers at each guest's place setting. For a slightly larger size, check out our junior sized salt and pepper shakers. Pick a combination that matches your wedding colors or give each guest a different combination for a colorful presentation. These adorable shakers will surely become a conversation piece.

Wedding accesories - Personalized rose petals

Personalized rose petals

Wedding accesories - Turn ordinary roses into extraordinary memories. These personalized petals with a presence are for every bride that has dreamed of walking down an aisle of roses. Unique process allows you to "print" or emboss almost any message or image on your choice of four colors - red for passion/romance, yellow for friendship/happiness, pink for appreciation/caring or white for loyalty/integrity. Please note that white, pink and yellow rose petals are embossed with copper color ink and the red rose petals are embossed with gold color ink. Petals are available in either fresh or silk petals, your guests will be amazed at this stunning presentation. For added elegance, try sprinkling them over your reception or sign-in table. Rose petals measure approximately 2" x 1 1/2". We offer the petals in two box options: box of 200 petals with 200 embossed petals or box 200 petals with 100 embossed petals.

From Traditional to Renaissance Style Weddings

Ever dream of being married in a castle? Does your future husband treat you like a princess? Whether your wedding ceremony takes place in a garden gazebo, festival tent or village castle, your wedding is sure to be a beautiful and memorable event with the proper planning.

Does the task of planning and coordinating your wedding seem overwheliming? A professional bridal consultant will work with you on every detail from invitations and seating, flowers and music, to a feast fit for a King and Queen! Be sure to visit our Vendors Service Directory to find the help you need.

Victorian Theme
Locations: Historic Site, Museum, Garden, Country Inn
Colors: Ivory, White, Pink, Rose, Pastels
Flowers: Rose, Potpourri, Stephanotis, Baby's Breath
Attire: Antique Lace, Cameos, Pearls, Fans
Special Touches: Horse-drawn Carriage, Candlelight, Violins, Harp Music

Western Theme
Locations: Ranch, Barn, Home
Colors: Red, White, Blue, Black, Silver, Turquoise
Flowers: Wildflowers, Daisy, Black-eyed Susan, Sunflowers
Attire: Gingham, Denim, Bandanas, Boots, Hats, String Ties
Special Touches: Buckboard Wagon, BBQ, Square Dancing, Fiddlers, Guitars

Art Deco Theme
Locations: Restaurant, Hall, Ballroom, Hotel, Art Museum
Colors: Silver, Black, White, Gold
Flowers: Calla Lily, Stephanotis, Fern
Attire: Sheath Styles, Baguettes, Beads, Sequins
Special Touches: Vintage Cars, Champagne, Fountains, Jazz Quartet

English Garden Theme
Locations: Garden, Home, Historic Site, Country Inn
Colors: Pink, Green, Lavender, Blue, Yellow, White
Flowers: Ivy, Lily of the Valley, Lilac, Rose, Iris, Hyacinth, Tulip
Attire: Organza, Floral Arrangements, Wreath, Basket Bouquets
Special Touches: Trellises, Arches, Gazebo, White Chairs, Tent Reception, String Quartet, Statues

Black & White Theme
Locations: Church, Hall, Ballroom, Country Club, Museum
Colors: Black, White
Flowers: Calla Lily, Gardenia, Orchids, Stephanotis
Attire: Ruffles, Off-the-Shoulder, Backless, Dinner Jackets
Special Touches: Cocktail Reception, Metallic Confetti, Black Rice Bags, Silver Toasting Glasses, Orchestra, Harp Music

Christmas Theme
Locations: Church, Home
Colors: Red, Green, Gold, Silver, White, Burgundy, Hunter Green
Flowers: Poinsettia, Evergreen, Holly, Baby's Breath
Attire: Taffeta, Plaid, Velvet Bows
Special Touches: Christmas Tree, Wreaths, Candlelight, Christmas Music

Country Theme
Locations: Home, Church, Garden, Historic Site, Country Inn
Colors: Blue, Mauve, Green, Brick Red
Flowers: Grapevine, Sweet Pea, Cornflower Wreaths, Tulip, Daisy, Baby's Breath
Attire: Handkerchief Hemlines, Flower Basket, Bouquets, Nostalgic
Special Touches: Grapevine Wreaths, Quilts, Baskets, Potted Plants, Horse-drawn Carriage

Princess Theme
Locations: Cathedral, Museum, Ballroom
Colors: Pale Pink, Ivory, White
Flowers: Rose, Orchid, Stephanotis, Gardenia, Camellia
Attire: Opulent Silks & Satins, Pearls, Iridescence
Special Touches: Fine Crystal, Silverware, Elaborate Floral Arrangements, Full Orchestra, Ballroom Dancing, Valet Parking

Nautical Theme
Locations: Yacht Club, Lakeside, Beach, Resort
Colors: Red, White, Navy Blue
Flowers: Lily, Carnation, Violet
Attire: Sailor Collars, Stripes, Linen, Cotton
Special Touches: Balloons, Streamers, Confetti, American Flag, Tent, Fireworks

www.weddingdetails.com

Wedding preparation

Wedding-Day Grooming for the Groom

Wedding preparation - Conventional wisdom holds that all eyes will be on the bride, and for the most part, they will be. But the groom will certainly have his share of the spotlight and should look his best.

Arrange to have a haircut two weeks before the wedding to give the cut time to fill in. Consider having a facial a week before the wedding and a manicure the day before. Many fine men's salons offer such services. Above all, you should have a good, close shave two hours before the wedding. You can have it done by a barber, but the closest shaves are those you give yourself. Fine shaving accoutrements - pre and aftershave lotions, shaving soap or cream, a badger-hair brush, and a well-balanced razor - provide an excellent shave.

Take a hot shower before you shave to open your pores and soften your whiskers. Apply pre-shave lotion to tone your skin and lift the whiskers away from your face. Apply a layer of shaving soap or cream to your still-wet face, and lather. Shave with the grain to reduce irritation. For stubborn patches, shave from the side. If you still need to get closer, apply a second layer of shaving soap or cream, and shave again, at a right angle to the beard. Rinse and apply an aftershave or moisturizer. Treat any nicks or cuts with a styptic pencil and let dry before you put on your shirt.

wedding channel.com

Wedding plan

Wedding - It doesn't quite seem fair: Planning the most romantic event of your life begins with the least romantic detail - establishing the budget. Before you sample a single hors d'oeuvre, figure out just how much you can spend. Traditionally, the bride's family should almost all of the financial responsibility, but today the groom's family and the couple themselves often make significant contributions.

The only way to finalize the numbers is to sit down and talk about them. Have frank, diplomatic discussions with both sets of parents about what they can comfortably contribute and, just as important, when. If you'll be paying for a portion of the event yourselves, tal about how much money each of you can put toward the wedding.

Finding the Money
If the amount of money you have from your own savings and your parent's contributions is not enough to create the wedding you want, you'll need to save ore. Discuss how much of your paychecks you'll each be able to set aside. At the same time, look for ways to cut back, such as spending less on dining out or travel.

Try to avoid making up the difference by using credit cards or taking out a loan; if you borrow to pay for your wedding, you may have to delay other important plans, such as buying a house or having children. Despite your best efforts, your budget may not accommodate a lobster dinner and an eighteen-piece orchestra, so take the time to think about what's most important to you. By compromising in some areas, you can splurge on the things you truly value. And remember, your guests will never know what you decided not to include.

What Costs What
Whatever your wedding style, expect to spend about half of your budget on the reception, which includes the cost of the site, food, beverages, rentals and cake. In addition, allot about 10 percent of your budget to each of four major categories: attire, flowers, music and photography. The final 10 percent goes to miscellaneous costs, such as invitations, favors, gifts, and any unexpected expenses that may arise. Adjust your budget along the way; when you spend more on certain items, make up the difference by spending less somewhere else. If a gourmet dinner is your first priority, for example, you may have to choose simpler floral arrangements.

Still looking for ways to save? Your network of family and friends can be a tremendous resource. If a relative is skilled at baking and volunteers to make your wedding cake, you can spend a little more on your gown; if your reception is held at a friend's spacious home that may free up money for a more lavish menu.

Ways to Save

• Get married during the winter (but avoid the holidays) and on any day other than Saturday.
• Look for a bargain location. Some of the loveliest places - parks, public gardens, museums, universities, historical sites - are also the most affordable.
• Wear your mother's or grandmothers' gown. Or look for a dress at consignment shops and vintage-clothing stores. The cost of cleaning and alterations can be far less expensive than the cost of buying a new wedding dress.
• Order a small, exquisite cake to use for the ceremonial cutting, then, serve a sheet cake of the same type to your guests.
• Instead of a full bar, limit offerings to champagne, wine, beer, mineral water, and soft drinks. Provide your own liquor and beverages, if possible, to avoid the caterers' markup.
  A cash bar is never acceptable.
• Don't underestimate the appeal of handmade favors, place cards, and other decorations; ask friends and family for help assembling them.
• Choose flowers that are in season at the time of your wedding.

wdding channel.com

Contemplating Wedding Catering

Eight Tips to Help You Cater for the Masses

1. Don’t Self-Cater

Although some couples opt to self-cater their wedding for economical reasons, what you'll save moneywise you'll lose timewise, as you won’t have the freedom to relax and enjoy your day. You want to let your hair down not tear your hair out worrying about the logistics of the food and wine. Not when there are expert services like Quintessance Foods

2. Offer a Basic Drinks Package

The drinks should flow at a wedding but you don't want to end up with a dribbling mess of drunks at the end of the wedding reception. Avoid this by supplying your guests with a basic drinks package of water, soft drinks, wine and beer.

3. Consider the Dietary Restrictions of Your Guests

Ensure that your menu is sensitive to various cultural and religious food restrictions of your guests and ensure that vegetarians, allergy sufferers, children and those watching their weight are catered for.

4. Themes are Fun

If you’re having a themed wedding, make sure that you co-ordinate your food accordingly. After all, what would a medieval wedding be without a banquet of roasted meats, hunks of bread and pints of ale? Why not have an exciting ethnic buffet at your reception? Flying Woks Caterers will cook up a storm in their massive iron woks and provide an oriental feast for your eyes as well as your stomach.

5. Easy-To-Eat Finger Food

If you’re having a cocktail reception with finger food, ensure that it comes in bite-sized portions. Nobody wants to get messy or to look inelegant when they’re eating. For chic canapés and stylish snacks, visit Gourmet Palette .

6. Use Quality Produce

Some caterers cut costs by compromising on the quality of their ingredients. Make sure the produce, especially seafood, is fresh and not frozen or canned. BlueRock Catering prides itself on maintaining the highest industry standards and are ideal for the discerning host.

7. Check the Caterer’s Tableware

Always view the tableware, glassware and silverware to ensure that it matches the style of your wedding. There's no point in featuring the caterer’s fine Wedgwood collection if you’re having a contemporary event.

8. Sample the Menu

Reputable caterers will organise a tasting for prospective clients. This should give you a good indication of the quality and presentation of the food.

www.brideonline.com.au

Wedding catering

Wedding catering - Let's get started on planning your wedding catering, and browse our complete catering planning guide.

Food and beverage, often eating up more than half of your wedding budget, is a big decision. A number of details must come together to treat your guests to something extraordinary. There is a lot to know before you start your quest…

Relax… breathe… now get going! To help you along the way, we have simplified the process. All you need to do is find the right caterer, determine your catering style, and then use your browse through our favorite catering tips and trends to create an unforgettable culinary experience. If this sounds easier said than done, browse our catering planning articles for practical advice and ideas to get those creative juices flowing.

For a complete catering planning guide that you can take with you, download our things to remember worksheet. Before you dive in, a few words of advice preliminary advice:

Set the Tone
The style of food and service that you decide on will serve as a foundation for the ambiance of the wedding reception. A general rule of thumb is to make sure that the reception menu corresponds with the formality of every other memorable aspect of your special day.

Consider your Guests
Before building the catering menu of your dreams and tastebuds, remember your guests. Don't forget about Aunt Martha's peanut allergies or the fact that most of your girlfriends from college are vegetarians. Even if you and your fiance are adventurous when it comes to exotic food and drink, not everyone will go for extra spicy thai food. Even in an attempt to be original, try to include some standards on the menu that will satisfy all palates.

Be Original
That said, don't be afraid to break out of the 5-course beef-or-chicken mold. Planning your wedding catering should be fun! Try to take your guests on a culinary journey. All the while, think quality, not quantity. Concentrate on variety and presentation over an elaborate abundance of food.

Make it Tasty
In all this thoughtful planning, don't forget the obvious. Make food as appetizing as it is memorable; look for variation in flavor as well as presentation

Mind Your Budget
You should count on spending as much as 50% of your total wedding budget on catering, more than any other element for your big day. So be sure to be sensible and meticulous during your selection process. If you aren't willing to sacrifice veal for meatloaf, cut down on the number of courses you serve so you won't break the bank.

www.elegala.com