One of the biggest questions prior to Marriage is: "How am I going to get along with my in-laws?" This has been a dilemma since the beginning of time and with a few simple hints will be a non-issue in your Wedding planning process.
Courtesy is Key- Remember all those times your mother told you to mind you manners? This is one of the reasons why. Always say please and thank you to your future in-laws. It is simple but effective. This is the first and best way to show the parents of your love that you respect them.
Treat your fiancee/fiance with Respect- This should be a no-brainer, but it does need reminding. Most parents will freely give a blessing to someone who treats their child with respect. Always consult your love and treat her/him with dignity. This includes not grabbing at them in front of their parents.
Care about their issues- Not pretend to care; actually care about the goings on of their family life. Take interest in your fiance/fiancee's brothers and sisters. Show up for concerts and important parties. Remember their names and conversations you have had. Invite them to parties you're having. Take time to get to know these people who will be important to your lives.
Their Ideas Matter- Now that doesn't mean you have to always use their ideas in your wedding but every now and then, when you don't care about the topic of wedding planning, use their ideas. You also should weigh their ideas with your own. Remember it is an important day in your life but it is also an important day in theirs. What the Bride and Groom want should matter most, but you shouldn't dismiss their ideas just because you didn't think of them.
Now these aren't fool-proof methods, but if you honestly try, your future in-laws will see this and make an effort also. Family is important and yours is getting bigger. Take the time to acknowledge this and appreciate it. I was lucky enough to like my in-laws from day one, but they have always been great to me. If things don't start off on the right foot between you and the family, (as I was fortunate enough to have) then work at it, this is an important part of your life now and worth the effort. I now consider that I have Two sets of parents and an extra brother, I don't even make the distinction between in-laws and blood any longer and I am very happy with that.
--Mickey
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Mar 8, 2008
Making In-Laws Part of the Family
Children Wedding Activities
Inviting or not inviting children to your Wedding Ceremony and/or Reception is a decision that is truly up to the Bride and Groom. This article is for couples who choose to have children at the Reception.
Children are unpredictable; this is one of their biggest Charms, but also one of the hazards of inviting them. It's lovely to include all of the special people from your life in your Wedding, even if they are some of the smallest people you know. It will be a great way to let them know how special to you they are, and give them a sense of what a big, fancy, grown-up special event is like. It may end up being too much for them to handle though, so consider that they may need a time-out from the festivities as well.
Some ideas for keeping the children occupied during your Reception:
Have a separate room (or at least a separate area) for the kids- Arrange for a baby-sitter to keep a close eye on the kiddos. You don't want them disrupting the more formal moments, but more importantly, you don't want them to find a way to hurt themselves or others (playing with a steak knife or tripping a waitress carrying a heavy tray would put a damper on things.) The kids don't have to be sequestered to this area all night, just be sure each child does have some form of adult supervision at all times.
Have activities for the children- Look for a Wedding-themed coloring and activity book, or use any general activity book. Provide crayons, paper, perhaps paper placemats, for the children. This will help keep them entertained during meal time, and especially during toasts which might not be able to capture their interest.
Have a tea party- If you are able to have a separate room for the children and a sitter or two, have a tea party theme for them. They're already all dressed up, and with juice and cookies this can be a more relaxed but still special event they can participate in. You could also have it themed like the Mad Hatter and March Hare's tea party from Alice in Wonderland to make it extra fun.
Hire a magician- If you can afford it, hire a magician to come and do some simple tricks or make balloon animals for the kids for an hour or two.
Special Bridal Visit- Make sure during your rounds the Bride and Groom take a minute or two to spend in the kids room. This will both show these little guys that they valued guest and also give you a break from the formality of the event- a nice little breather, and perhaps a chance to sneak a kiss in the hallway.
Keep story books on hand- Make sure there are some books a sitter or parent can read quietly to a group of children.
Goody bags for the kids- Give the kids a bag when they arrive that has treats and little activities to keep them happy. Stay away from anything noisy or potentially destructive- you don't want a yo-yo destroying your wedding cake!
Teddy Bear Toss- If you're doing a bouquet and garter toss for the adults, and you'll have a lot of children, you might want to consider doing something for them. Toss a soft white teddy bear, or some other plushy (A Webkinz would be quite popular), for the kids to catch. They'll have fun and be awfully cute to watch.
Kid's Dance- Get all the kids onto the dance floor with the Bridal Couple or the whole Bridal Party. What great pictures you'll have!
Things to keep in mind-
Not all parents will be comfortable leaving their children with a baby-sitter they don't know. Not everyone might think children are as cute as you (or their parents) think they are. Including or not including children is a big decision that brings up a lot of emotion for many people. Make the decision for yourself and stick to it, because you aren't going to be able to please everybody.
--Minnie
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Ideas on Marriage Proposals
Well, if you are reading this article you have come to the conclus
ion it is time to propose marriage. You have decided to take the great plunge. You have finally found what you were looking for and you think if you ask right, she will say yes. If you're anywhere near as nervous as I was prior to proposing, you are now looking for a great idea to make sure this girl knows how much you really love her. I am going to give you a few ideas on ways to propose to guarantee she will be able to gush on about how romantic her fiance is. In case you aren't already aware of this, I'm letting you know that for at least 3 months after saying yes, she will be telling the engagement story to everyone she meets. Here are some ideas that will help your gal have the sweetest story around.
First Date revamped- A sure fire way to appear to be the caring man you surely are is to take her back to the scene of your first romantic date. That first dinner where she started thinking about you in a long term way. If you play this right, you will get points for the idea and for the proposal. Say something like wanting to go back to the place where you started to fall in love. Once there spend a nice quiet night with your love. Before the dessert, say you need to use the restroom. Then Stand up take a step towards her. Kiss her. Bend your knee and say things about "not wanting to spend another minute without her." Make sure you tell her you love her and ASK her to do you the honor of marrying you. This will illicit giggle-cries every time.
Make a Day of it- Plan out a nice quiet walk on the beach or at a local park. Bring a picnic basket and blankets. Spend a quiet afternoon together. At some point when the sun is starting to set, ask your question and be stunned by how happy you make her.
Top of the Ferris Wheel- Is it possible to be more alone with someone? Simply pay the conductor a small gratuity and ride to the top with your sweetie. When the ride suddenly stops at the top, pop your question. Keep in mind if your girl is afraid of heights this is not the right one for you.
At the Game- Now this is not the perfect proposal idea for everyone. You need to really know your girl. If she is a die-hard fan this is perfect for you. Just make sure you are with her when the proposal goes up and that you pay for it far in advance so there are no glitches when you get to the game.
Back to the Scene of the Crime- This is my personal favorite (and the way I proposed). You need to be sneaky for this one to work. Take a ride with your sweetie. Have some other agenda. On the way home, make sure you pass the sight of your first kiss, or the place where you asked her on your first date. Take a walk (if you had a reason to be nervous. I had just asked her father's blessing, it works better) to clear your head. Pretend to just realize where you are and remind her. Say something like "Well in that case (down on one knee) I better do this now" Ask your question and be prepared for tears.
Some things to keep in mind:
After you propose she is going to want to call everyone, so don't do it right before your Broadway tickets, ask her after the show.
Have a phone handy, so she can call her nearest and dearest.
Plan on being up late into the night and don't hesitate to wake the town to tell people of your engagement. They will want to know.
Have tissues ready at the car or in your pocket. She will cry and cry and cry.
--Mickey
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Mar 7, 2008
The 9 Most Important Parts of Your Wedding
Not a huge post- more of a reminder to paste to the front of your Wedding Planning Book!
9 Flowers
8 Food
7 Decor (theme)
6 Guest List
5 Wedding Gown
4 Ceremony Site
3 Bridal Party
2 Marriage License
1 Bridal Couple
Celebrity Weddings
When Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes married, the papers were filled with marriage announcements, gossip, and untruths. Why? Because they didn't invite the Public. Because they are capable of having the Wedding of anyone dreams and we wanted to know what that was like. More likely it is the simple fact that most papers believe they will have a 20% increase in sales when the word Wedding is in the title.
Why does the marriage of Celebrities draw so much attention? Is it the idea of people we believe we "know" are being married? Perhaps it is the fact that It is the act of something so private, that these public figures would not want to share it with the public. We all want to have the perfect Wedding, but these few can actually afford any and every detail for their Wedding.
When David and Victoria Beckham married they were paid over 1 million british pounds for the exclusive rights to their Wedding pictures. These pictures were printed in OK! and helped push their circulation past the 600,000+ mark. With more and more Celebrity having Secret Marriages we probably won't get to see another Prince Charles and Princess Diane celebration. But with the newspapers and magazines paying this kind of money we will at least be able to see the pictures. And what we secretly want most is the ability to recreate this decadent affairs, so the pictures are truly all we need.
--Mickey
Perfect Wedding Centerpiece Ideas
So you have picked your reception location, hired a DJ, booked your photographer and now with all your free time you are looking at Wedding Centerpiece Ideas. Well I am going to help you out. Here are some great ideas for Floral Wedding Centerpieces.
Flowers to consider
Roses, gerbers, hydrangeas, callas
Black magic Roses. Orchids
Flowers plus interwoven bear grass
Hypercium berries
Flowered branches, curly twigs
Green ranunculous, brown or green roses,
Green mums, gomphrenia, proteas
Small citrus fruits wrapped in contrasting ribbons
Ferns
Large variegated leaves, curled into clear cylinders
Wheat grass
Tall curly willow or flowered branches pushing vertically above floral arrangements
Traditional white blooms dye to match wedding colors
Carved Pumpkins (around Halloween)
Use Watering pails and add sunflowers or daisies
Fire and Ice Roses
Thinking about not using flowers you can look at Modern Wedding Advice's Non-Floral Wedding Centerpieces.
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A Traditional Hindu Wedding
Most elaborate ceremonies are traditionally conducted at least partially in Sanskrit, the language in which most holy Hindu ceremonies are conducted. They are many rituals that have evolved since traditional times and differ from the modern western wedding ceremony and also among the different regions, families, and castes such as Rajput weddings and Iyer weddings. The Hindus attach a lot of importance to marriages and the ceremonies are very colorful and extend for several days.
In India, where most Hindus live, the laws relating to marriage differ by religion. By the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 passed by the Union Parliament of India, for all legal purposes, all Hindus of any caste, creed or sect, Sikh, Budhhists and Jains are considered as Hindus for the sake of the Hindu marriage Act — and can hence intermarry. By the Special Marriage Act, 1954, a Hindu can marry a non-Hindu employing any ceremony provided certain legal conditions are fulfilled.
The pre-wedding ceremonies include engagement (involving vagdana or oral agreement and lagna-patra written declaration), and arrival of the groom's party at the bride's residence, often in the form of a formal procession. The post-wedding ceremonies involve welcoming the bride to her new home.
Just as Hinduism is hard to grasp and contrast against the newer, book-defined, structured religions such as Christianity and Islam, India's prevalent wedding traditions are also hard to categorize purely on a religious basis. They have a closer similarity to ancient cultures such as Greek, roman, Egyptian and Chinese.
An important thing to note is that despite the fact that the modern Hinduism is largely based on the puja form of the worship of devas as enshrined in the Puranas, a Hindu wedding ceremony at its core is essentially a Vedic yajña (a fire-sacrifice), in which the Aryan deities are invoked in the Indo-Aryan style. It has a deep origin in the ancient ceremony of cementing the bonds of friendship/alliance (even among people of the same sex or people of different species in mythological contexts), although today, it only survives in the context of weddings. The primary witness of a Hindu marriage is the fire-deity (or the Sacred Fire) Agni, and by law and tradition, no Hindu marriage is deemed complete unless in the presence of the Sacred Fire, seven encirclements have been made around it by the bride and the groom together.
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Non-Floral Centerpiece Ideas
Well, maybe your allergic, maybe you don't have the money. Or perhaps you just want to be a little different from other Couples. Well here is a great list of non-floral wedding centerpiece ideas. The best part of not using fresh flowers is you can have these centerpieces created months prior to your Wedding day and not have to be running around or depending on a vendor to show up promptly on your wedding day.
White Ostrich feathers (typically in Eiffel vases)
Medium gauge copper wire, curled and spiraled
Sandcastles (perfect for a beach wedding theme)
Glass ornaments or Candy in Glass Bowls (Works well during Christmas)
Silk Flowers (if simply allergic)
Votive candles on a mirrored platter
Live Goldfish in Goldfish Bowl(Good as long as the goldfish stay alive)
Colored Sand and Sea rocks in Goldfish Bowl
Paper Lantern (works well with asian theme)
Books (You know if this sounds good)
Clear Vases with Colored Water and possibly Sand
Snow Flakes and smooth rocks
And don't forget the unique concept of not having a centerpiece, nothing says you have to, but feel free to use our suggestions if you decide you want one.
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Groom isn't a Four Letter Word
Brides love their Grooms. So why is it that Grooms get no respect in the Wedding Planning Process? There is a stigma in most Wedding magazines and websites that grooms want nothing to do with the wedding planning process. Whether this perception is fair or is unjustified is a question worth asking.
Most brides initially try to have their grooms involved in the wedding planning process. This is only natural, for you two are not just planning a party, you are in fact planning a lifetime together. So when exactly is it that grooms take the wrong fork in the road? Could it be when they start reading the wedding planning books or magazines and pick up on all the innuendo (sometimes not so hidden), or is it when the wedding planner doesn't even remember the groom's name? There are many things a groom has to deal with during the planning process that the bride isn't even aware of. Even your friends and family will be disturbed if you mention what the groom wants if it contradicts something they figured you wanted.
At some point in the process every groom (some sooner then others) will decide that if his opinion isn't going to be considered it is probably just easier to let his bride plan the whole thing. Sometimes you hear a groom not caring about what flowers are at the wedding and think "Typical man"- maybe that isn't exactly fair- and if it is then shame on your groom.
A wedding should be planned by two people. There are compromises to be made and sometimes the groom won't get it his way, but sometimes the bride should cede to the groom as well . The forums today had a question from a bride about whether it would be okay for her to have a small wedding because the groom had a medical condition (fear of large crowds)- she was actually asking if it would be okay not to have the wedding size she wanted so he could also enjoy the day. I know most brides would never ask this question as the answer seems obvious to us, but after reading what most magazine say about the groom and his disinterest with your wedding, I can understand why she questioned even this decision.
The real reason for this article is to say the we here at Modern Wedding Advice will do our best to consider both Bride and Groom in all wedding advice. This is officially a groom safe area, where you can feel comfortable listening to Wedding Advice that is geared towards both of you having a fabulous wedding day. We will not bash grooms nor will we assume they don't care or matter. We like your groom as much as you do. We won't demand you include your groom in the planning process, we just won't show you how not to, either.
One last note to the grooms reading this: It is your wedding too, so if you don't care now, it's time to start. Your opinion matters, whether you believe it or not. If you think you don't have to help, shame on you. Grooms matter and your Bride will include you if you show interest. Most Grooms already do, but for you few who don't, help us get back on board the Wedding train, please.
--Mickey (and Minnie)
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Mar 6, 2008
Nine Fun Cheap Date Ideas
Planning a wedding is a lot of fun, but it is also stressful and expensive. Hopefully you and your fiancé are enjoying this process together. Try not to let planning your wedding get in the way of your relationship. Here are some ideas to help you spend time together and relax, like when you first started dating. These are all free or really cheap, so they won’t eat into your wedding budget.
Light a fire- Light up a fire in the fireplace, and relax. Drink some wine or some hot chocolate, spread blankets and pillows on the floor, and just talk. Don’t talk about the wedding unless you both really want to.
Do a jigsaw puzzle- Pick a puzzle as complicated or as easy as you wish. Set aside a table space for the puzzle, and work on it together. You can set aside a time each night, say the half hour after dinner, turn off the phone, and just enjoy this project together. You’ll have a nice feeling of satisfaction when you complete it, and some nice quiet quality time while you get there. (Don’t fight over who gets to put in the last piece.)
Go to a zoo or aquarium- Most libraries have arrangements with local museums and zoos that allow you to get passes for free or reduced admission. This is a great way to get out of the house and do something out of the ordinary. If you’re planning on having children, you may enjoy seeing all the young families out and about. If kids aren’t your thing, plan your outing around peak kid-times- school vacations and weekends are going to be crowded.
Play Monopoly- Play Monopoly or some other board game that takes up a decent amount of time. Enjoy a little bit of competitiveness. Relax and have fun.
Bake cookies- Bake cookies from scratch. Again, a nice way to spend some time together, and you’ll have something yummy to share at the end.
Take a stroll around the neighborhood- Maybe you don’t always notice the little things about the area you live in because you’re always driving or in a rush. Leave your cell phones at home and head outdoors. Hold hands, chat, and enjoy getting to know your neighborhood in a different way from every day.
Go miniature golfing- This might have been a ton of fun when you were a kid, and nothing says that it can’t be now that you’re adults. This is a great low-key and inexpensive date.
Take a class- Find a class offered at a community center or adult education center in an area you both might be interested in. It could be dancing, cooking, a foreign language, or any number of subjects. It’ll get you out of the house together once a week or so, and you’ll learn something new together.
Plan a surprise date- Tell your partner when, but don’t tell them anything else until you get there. (OK, it is also nice to tell them approximately how they should dress.) You could take them to a concert, for a picnic in the park, to the restaurant you went to when you first started dating, or be even more creative. The fact that you put the thought into it and wanted to do something extra nice fr them will thrill your partner.
Enjoy all the craziness of this time, but do try to stay connected with each other. Getting into this habit now will also serve you well well into your married life.
--Minnie
French Wedding Music
French is one of the most romantic languages spoken in the world. So it goes to reason that the most romantic French Love Songs would be perfect melodies to play at your Wedding. Here are some suggest First Dance Wedding Songs and Last Dance Wedding Songs.
"Hymne à l'amour" Edith Piaf
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Pour que tu m'aime Encore" Celine Dion
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Les mots bleus" Christophe
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Dans 150 ans" Raphael
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"J'envoie valser" Zazie
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"C'est écrit" Francis Cabrel
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"D'Amour ou d'Amitié" Celine Dion
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Gentilhomme Italien" Roberto Sironi
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Autre Chanson" Toto Cutugno
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Sentimentalment Je T'Aime" Andy Canelle
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Ecole d'Amour" Amanda Lear
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
"Vie en Rose" DF Girls
Listen to French Wedding Music Here
These French Love songs are perfect for any First Wedding Dance or Last Wedding Dance. This Wedding Music will keep your friends thinking of love for many years to come.
More Wedding Music
Variations of Christmas Weddings
When start looking at the Theme to you Christmas Wedding celebration, remember nothing is set in stone. You are completely able to choose a more specific theme to your Christmas Wedding.
Here are some Variations that might be fun to play with.
-Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" theme took place during the Romantic period in English history and was filled with such beauty. You can research the dress and times of this historic work and incorporate them into your theme. Old English Garb, Men in Dickens' era dress and the Ladies can certainly easily find Dresses that work with this theme.
-A Disney Christmas Wedding is certainly my favorite idea. You can wear a Disney Princess Gown and dress your Bridesmaids in other princess dresses. Use More brilliant "cartoony" colors for your wedding them. Watch "Beauty and the Beast" again and tell me you don't want to wear Belle's Ball Gown to your Wedding.
-A White Christmas Wedding. White is the friend of any Wedding. Use this concept to go one step further not only using the 1950's Ski resort idea. You can have a light blue and white theme. Have the guest throw snow flakes or bubbles to accentuate the decor. Flowergirl fairies can drop snowflakes too.
Well those are just some ideas to get you started. I know there are a million ideas on any Wedding. Oh and how about you Summer Brides. You know people celebrate the Christmas in July tradition...So why not a Christmas Wedding in July.
--Mickey
More Christmas Weddings Articles
Miami Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Rev. Fr. Christopher J. Repp, S.T.L.
Miami, FL
305-801-9932
Rev Charles Gilbride
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-563-4060
A Story Book Wedding,inc.
Miami Beach, FL
800-692-3568
Just Char
Miami, FL
305-608-5646
Rev Ethel Ponder
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-309-7388
Rev. Arlene Goldman
Pompano Beach, FL
954-946-6656
Weddings by Dorie
Dania, FL
954-929-9677
Sacred Light Temple
Pompano Beach, FL
954-973-0903
Florida Wedding Ceremonies
Hollywood, FL
754-224-7585
Faithfully Yours
Hollywood, FL
954-985-8620
Berton M Pike
Jupiter, FL
561-747-7640
Unity of All Faiths
West Palm Beach, FL
561-655-1927
What Now Community Development Center, Inc
Fort Lauderdale, FL
754-245-4093
River Oak Church
Hollywood, FL
954-966-8978
A One Notary Service
Lake Worth, FL
561-254-4048
Sacred Light Temple
Pompano Beach, FL
954-973-0903
Weddings in Florida
Hollywood, FL
954-593-7674
Mvictoria Services, Inc
Homestead, FL
305-298-4394
River Oak Church
Hollywood, FL
954-966-8978
Rev. Arlene Goldman
Pompano Beach, FL
954-946-6656
Unity of All Faiths
West Palm Beach, FL
561-655-1927
Esqiure Notary Svc
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-739-7966
To Love and to Cherish
Lake Worth, FL
561-654-4277
More Officiant Listings
Missouri Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Sharon Connors
Lees Summit, MO
816-935-9420
Officiant minister
Lees Summit, MO
816-820-6647
Joseph Wolpert Ministries
Lees Summit, MO
816-525-9519
Wedding Services
Saint Louis, MO
314-406-1328
All Couples Married
Saint Louis, MO
800-872-6221
Pastor Jason Terpack
Kansas City, MO
816-337-9181
St Louis Wedding Clergy Network
Saint Louis, MO
314-591-4532
Seeds of Love Outreach Ministry
Kansas City, MO
816-392-0046
With This Ring
Ballwin, MO
314-954-3279
Honor Your Voice
Springfield, MO
417-833-2633
Your Ceremony, Your Way!
Saint Louis, MO
314-443-8654
Your Way Wedding Services
Independence, MO
816-797-8973
The Marrying Man Network
Saint Louis, MO
314-779-0262
Rev. Lawrence A. Schneider
Saint Louis, MO
314-544-4256
Sharon Connors
Lees Summit, MO
816-935-9420
Two Women and a Vow
Kansas City, MO
816-813-1838
Reverend Jeremiah Klemish
Republic, MO
417-225-2364
Your Ceremony, Your Way!
Saint Louis, MO
314-443-8654
Your Way Wedding Services
Independence, MO
816-797-8973
Soul-Esteem Center II
Cape Girardeau, MO
573-264-4260
Rev Rose Budd
Kansas City, MO
816-868-0635
Pastor Karryl Patrick
Winfield, MO
636-668-8214
Rev Yvette Ojeda
Saint Peters, MO
314-306-9430
Rev. Dr. Marlene Bricker
Chesterfield, MO
636-391-1400
Angie Morgan-Wedding Officiant
Saint Louis, MO
618-343-3053
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Tennessee Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Mid South Mobile DJ's
Murfreesboro, TN
615-242-9634
Cherised Memories Weddings
Murfreesboro, TN
615-848-0103
Heart2heart
Old Hickory, TN
615-847-0606
Ceremonies Made Simple
McMinnville, TN
931-607-3675
Minister Officiant Services
Greeneville, TN
423-636-1003
Gatlinburg Weddings
Gatlinburg, TN
865-428-8317
Dr. David M. Wilson, D.D.,ph.D.
Murfreesboro, TN
615-349-5433
Beautiful Weddings
Chattanooga, TN
423-504-7304
Helping Hand Mission - Interfaith Minister
Memphis, TN
901-315-8478
Wedding Chaplain
Cedar Hill, TN
615-389-8502
Spiritessence
Knoxville, TN
865-691-8329
The Officiant
Strawberry Plains, TN
865-256-8593
Dr.L.A. Larson
Madison, TN
615-885-0931
Rev. Elizabeth - Wedding Minister
Goodlettsville, TN
615-594-3008
Rev. Daniel R. Deck
Knoxville, TN
865-771-1226
Free Spirit Fellowship
La Vergne, TN
615-280-1378
Spiritessence
Knoxville, TN
865-691-8329
Dr. David M. Wilson, D.D.,ph.D.
Murfreesboro, TN
615-349-5433
Rev. Elizabeth - Wedding Minister
Goodlettsville, TN
615-594-3008
The Officiant
Strawberry Plains, TN
865-256-8593
Wedding Chaplain
Cedar Hill, TN
615-389-8502
Smoky Mountain Cabin Weddings
Sevierville, TN
865-453-9117
Customized Wedding Ceremonies
Jasper, TN
423-653-3558
Beautiful Weddings
Hixson, TN
423-842-9839
Three Lilies Ministries
Atoka, TN
901-840-2648
Divine Weddings II
Cookeville, TN
931-284-4362
More Officiant Listings
Texas Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Cristo Rey Ministries
El Paso, TX
915-252-9840
Pastor Gary Young
San Antonio, TX
210-659-2746
Honor and Cherish Wedding Services
Round Rock, TX
512-483-4528
The Preacher Man
Mesquite, TX
214-288-2976
Rev Charlotte L Holloway-Simmons
Missouri City, TX
281-782-9640
Glen Barbier
Pflugerville, TX
512-924-4933
Weddings For All
Corpus Christi, TX
361-779-0647
Kingdom Relationship Ministries
Katy, TX
281-236-2411
The Wedding Officiant
Cedar Park, TX
512-335-2236
Honor and Cherish Wedding Services
Round Rock, TX
512-779-8128
Weddings by Bill, Non Denominational
San Antonio, TX
210-650-4895
A Family Affair Wedding Officiantminister
Garland, TX
214-206-1855
Ann Webb Ministries
Rosenberg, TX
281-341-7332
I Thee Wed Place
Pflugerville, TX
866-709-0817
Lovenotes
Richardson, TX
972-647-9580
Lavender Nuptuals
San Antonio, TX
210-614-4367
Reverend Geffen
Corpus Christi, TX
361-813-2929
A Wedding Just For You
Sugar Land, TX
281-748-9248
Dream Catcher Wedding
Canyon Lake, TX
830-899-6994
Rev. Charles M. Decuir
Cedar Hill, TX
972-979-7400
Houston Weddings Unlimited
Houston, TX
281-448-4329
Certain Wedding's
Plano, TX
469-671-6078
Alternative Wedding Services
Dallas, TX
469-667-9570
Weddings to Go -Rev. Session
Dripping Springs, TX
512-585-6017
ReverenDJosh
Frisco, TX
972-489-2662
Weddings to Go
Austin, TX
512-698-7161
Hope Center
San Antonio, TX
210-745-0837
Marilee Murphy
Elgin, TX
512-285-3495
Exclusive Weddings Limited
Spring, TX
281-353-5380
Reverend Geffen
Corpus Christi, TX
361-813-2929
Houston Minister's Service
Rosharon, TX
281-331-3615
Certain Wedding's
Plano, TX
469-671-6078
Weddings to Go
Austin, TX
512-698-7161
Rev. Bonnie Connor
Austin, TX
512-301-2205
Weddings For All
Corpus Christi, TX
361-779-0647
Early Bird Weddings
San Antonio, TX
210-908-3726
Agape Weddings
Fort Worth, TX
817-773-5064
Dream Catcher Wedding
Canyon Lake, TX
830-899-6994
Honor and Cherish Wedding Services
Round Rock, TX
512-779-8128
Lovenotes
Richardson, TX
972-647-9580
Pastor Jerry Calcott
San Antonio, TX
210-313-0412
Pastor Gary Young
San Antonio, TX
210-659-2746
Wedding Ministry by Design
New Braunfels, TX
830-743-7282
Pastor Christopher Calk
Houston, TX
281-481-2749
Island Minister
Galveston, TX
409-256-9511
John Swatsell Ministries
League City, TX
281-636-1994
Harvest Wedding Chapel
Houston, TX
832-573-8947
Pastor & Licensed Counselor Kevin Martin, M.A.
Humble, TX
281-852-7609
The Preacher Man
Mesquite, TX
214-288-2976
Lovenotes
Richardson, TX
972-647-9580
Sacred Ties
Garland, TX
972-222-5443
Custom Wedding Ceremonies
McKinney, TX
214-213-2103
Rev. D. Byrne
New Braunfels, TX
210-639-7183
Alternative Custom Weddings
Houston, TX
713-208-2025
Personalized Ceremonies
New Braunfels, TX
830-907-4030
Pastor & Licensed Counselor Kevin Martin, M.A.
Humble, TX
281-852-7609
Rev Jd Harris
North Richland Hills, TX
817-235-3437
The Wedding Officiant
Cedar Park, TX
512-335-2236
Rev Critter
Dallas, TX
214-536-6186
Weddings from The Heart
San Antonio, TX
210-694-4434
Marilee Murphy
Elgin, TX
512-285-3495
Kingdom Relationship Ministries
Katy, TX
281-236-2411
Pastor Christopher Calk
Houston, TX
281-481-2749
Rev. Charles M. Decuir
Cedar Hill, TX
972-979-7400
Hope Center
San Antonio, TX
210-745-0837
Alternative Wedding Services
Dallas, TX
469-667-9570
Weddings to Go -Rev. Session
Dripping Springs, TX
512-585-6017
Honor and Cherish Wedding Services
Round Rock, TX
512-779-8128
Country Side Wedding Consultant & Ministries
Austin, TX
512-731-5232
More Officiant Listings
Utah Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Rev. Sharon Lewis
Ogden, UT
801-334-8799
I Do Weddings
Sandy, UT
801-572-4926
Harvest Chapel Christian Fellowship
Layton, UT
801-668-7857
Celestial Ceremonies
Salt Lake City, UT
801-259-9645
More Officiant Listings
Vermont Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Vt Justice of The Peace
North Concord, VT
802-695-2280
Coming Together
Northfield Falls, VT
802-225-8986
Wedding Minister
Burlington, VT
802-652-1141
More Officiant Listings
Virginia Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Mobile Ministers
Virginia Beach, VA
757-477-3954
Christian Weddings For You
Chesapeake, VA
757-615-0264
I Do Wedding Services
Norfolk, VA
757-486-3294
Rev. Phyllis Ann Min
Richmond, VA
804-353-9127
Julian Bermudez
Woodbridge, VA
703-492-4535
Serenity's Edge Weddings & Romantic Cottages
Thaxton, VA
540-947-2468
New Beginnings
Lynchburg, VA
434-528-3091
Salem Wedding Chapel
Salem, VA
540-387-0836
Virginia Beach Weddings
Virginia Beach, VA
757-222-7693
Trillium Celebrants
Hampton, VA
757-880-4054
Rev. D. R. Ampey
Midlothian, VA
804-519-9966
Clergyman For Your Wedding
Springfield, VA
703-323-5412
Rev. Tom Costa
Alexandria, VA
703-921-5018
Elegant-Weddings
Harrisonburg, VA
540-908-2144
Rev. Phyllis Ann Min
Richmond, VA
804-353-9127
Salem Wedding Chapel
Salem, VA
540-387-0836
Clergyman For Your Wedding
Springfield, VA
703-323-5412
Rev. Tom Costa
Alexandria, VA
703-921-5018
Ministerial Services
Springfield, VA
703-866-3577
Serenity's Edge Weddings & Romantic Cottages
Thaxton, VA
540-947-2468
Trillium Celebrants
Hampton, VA
757-880-4054
Rev. D. R. Ampey
Midlothian, VA
804-519-9966
Mobile Ministers
Virginia Beach, VA
757-477-3954
Beautiful Weddings, Etc.
Virginia Beach, VA
757-589-2337
St. Patrick Abbey-Va, Md, & Dc
Basye, VA
540-856-3223
Sacred Celebrations
Winchester, VA
540-678-1313
Reverend Elisheva C. Clegg
Palmyra, VA
434-589-4864
More Officiant Listings
Washington Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
The Marriage Mate
Blaine, WA
360-332-9439
Rev. Don Cook
Oak Harbor, WA
360-632-1426
Uniquely Yours
Olympia, WA
360-359-2035
Zen Weddings
Oak Harbor, WA
360-672-1048
Appassionata Weddings
Seattle, WA
206-783-4595
Ceremonial Bliss
Spokane, WA
509-701-6305
Chelan Wedding Service
Chelan, WA
509-682-9381
Faithful Ceremonies
Seattle, WA
206-660-5849
The Wedding Officiates
Bothell, WA
360-471-0856
Evaline K Chan Personal Svc
Granite Falls, WA
360-691-4201
From This Moment...
Port Orchard, WA
360-874-7769
Pastor Pat's Weddings
Mineral, WA
360-438-6882
Reverend Waunda Briggs
Snohomish, WA
425-971-1544
Pastor Pat's Weddings
Mineral, WA
360-438-6882
Uniquely Yours
Olympia, WA
360-359-2035
Create a Memory: Uniquely Yours
University Place, WA
253-761-0575
Reverend Betsy Raye
Camano Island, WA
206-604-2292
Pastors Paul & Anna Brown
Rochester, WA
360-273-0790
Camelot Shore Weddings
Vancouver, WA
360-314-7916
The Reverend Curtis a Rhodes- Celebrant
Seattle, WA
206-782-3681
Rev. Don Cook
Oak Harbor, WA
360-632-1426
Weddings by The Reverend Suzen
Seattle, WA
206-301-9164
Ceremonial Bliss
Spokane, WA
509-701-6305
Best Choice Weddings
Bothell, WA
206-778-3896
Yakima Wedding Officiant
Yakima, WA
509-966-6446
Love Bound
Renton, WA
425-687-2598
We Be Weddings
Seattle, WA
206-242-7117
Puget Sound Religious Services
Renton, WA
206-571-3315
From This Moment...
Port Orchard, WA
360-874-7769
A Ceremony from The Heart
Seattle, WA
206-608-4033
A Time Like This
Olympia, WA
206-313-3980
Spokane Wedding Officiant
Spokane, WA
509-638-1145
Rev. DJ Kenneth
Renton, WA
425-502-2353
Destiny Weddings
Kennewick, WA
509-539-2111
The Reverend Curtis a Rhodes- Celebrant
Seattle, WA
206-782-3681
Spokane Wedding Officiant
Spokane, WA
509-638-1145
We Be Weddings
Seattle, WA
206-242-7117
Uniquely Yours
Olympia, WA
360-359-2035
A Ceremony from The Heart
Seattle, WA
206-608-4033
Create a Memory: Uniquely Yours
University Place, WA
253-761-0575
Puget Sound Religious Services
Renton, WA
206-571-3315
Camelot Shore Weddings
Vancouver, WA
360-314-7916
Qspecial Moments Weddings & Romantic B&B Suites
Washougal, WA
360-837-3711
Evaline K Chan Personal Svc
Granite Falls, WA
360-691-4201
Zen Weddings
Oak Harbor, WA
360-672-1048
We Do I Do's
Bothell, WA
425-275-6115
Delight in The Details
Seattle, WA
425-829-2731
Rev. Joan M. Mccabe
Vashon, WA
206-463-3285
Danette Therkildsen, Officiant
Hobart, WA
206-999-5525
Chaplain Dale
Monroe, WA
206-724-2037
Interfaith Ministers of Washington
Seattle, WA
206-388-8150
Julie Myers
Bremerton, WA
360-373-1463
More Officiant Listings
West Virginia Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Custom Ceremonies
Falling Waters, WV
304-274-0395
Willow Tree Weddings
Huntington, WV
304-382-3671
Anmarie Wedding Chapel
Hurricane, WV
304-562-3846
More Officiant Listings
Wisconsin Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Amazing Grace Chapel
Milwaukee, WI
414-807-3948
Martrimonial Ministry
Eagle, WI
262-594-2458
Shepherd by The Lake Ministries,llc
Algoma, WI
920-487-2318
Let's Get Married!
Madison, WI
608-219-6188
Ceremonies of The Spirit
Cudahy, WI
414-482-0744
Reverend Terri Wiersma
Colby, WI
715-613-8467
A Wedding Minister at Your Service
Waukesha, WI
262-548-0611
Rev. Marti Garrison
Racine, WI
319-331-9703
Sky's The Limit Weddings
Waterloo, WI
608-206-3677
Companions Church Ceremonies
Milwaukee, WI
414-289-8661
Your Special Ceremony
Milwaukee, WI
414-510-7266
Weddings to Go
Cudahy, WI
414-841-9699
Weddings
Slinger, WI
262-305-2972
Milwaukee Wedding Ministers Llc
Milwaukee, WI
414-737-5845
A Civil Ceremony
Franklin, WI
414-429-8835
Milwaukee Wedding Ministers Llc
Milwaukee, WI
414-737-5845
Carolyn's Custom Ceremonies
Milwaukee, WI
414-745-4397
Ceremonies of The Spirit
Cudahy, WI
414-482-0744
A Wedding Minister at Your Service
Waukesha, WI
262-548-0611
The Door County Wedding Officiate
Sturgeon Bay, WI
920-559-3811
A Beautiful Ceremony, A Chapel by The Courthouse
Brookfield, WI
262-373-0325
Judith Kubish
Milwaukee, WI
414-731-6340
Promises of The Heart
Cudahy, WI
414-803-3443
More Officiant Listings
Wyoming Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Rev. Catherine Black-Ward
Laramie, WY
307-460-3136
More Officiant Listings
Alaska Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Blessed Beginnings
Anchorage, AK
907-868-4787
Alaska Wedding Ministry
Palmer, AK
907-232-8237
Ralph Miller
Anchorage, AK
907-349-4823
Castle Ministries
Anchorage, AK
907-841-0630
Free Methodist Church
Anchorage, AK
907-333-6085
More Officiant Listings
Alabama Officiant Listings
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Truth Church
Eva, AL
256-482-8195
Ame Church Ninth Episcopal
Birmingham, AL
205-791-1908
Victoria Ministries
Birmingham, AL
205-410-5968
Terri Mandell-Campfield
Fairhope, AL
251-928-4783
Always & Forever
Bay Minette, AL
251-581-2704
Angel's Nest Wedding Chapel
Bay Minette, AL
251-689-9805
Hartselle Wedding Chapel
Hartselle, AL
256-318-3288
Archangel Essence Spiritual Wellness Center
Huntsville, AL
256-536-4455
I Do Declare
Harvest, AL
256-337-9166
Susan Berent, Pastor
Daphne, AL
251-391-6960
Gulf Shores Weddings
Mobile, AL
251-753-2065
Clifford Wilson
Arab, AL
256-586-6147
Eldridge Criscoe
Union Grove, AL
256-498-2413
Kenneth Tyler
Union Grove, AL
256-498-3174
Robert Ehr
Union Grove, AL
256-498-0714
Don Ware
Union Grove, AL
256-498-5301
Robert Ehr
Union Grove, AL
256-498-0714
A Q Stracener
Union Grove, AL
256-498-2533
Larry Narrell
Arab, AL
256-586-3919
Robert E Duncan
Arab, AL
256-586-3021
Herbert Childers
Union Grove, AL
256-498-2111
Duane R Spanogle
Laceys Spring, AL
256-498-2566
Randy Rathmann
Arab, AL
256-586-2599
Nathan Horton
Union Grove, AL
256-498-3916
Clifford Wilson
Arab, AL
256-586-6147
Terry C Gregory
New Hope, AL
256-723-4334
Jim E Usher
Union Grove, AL
256-586-6953
Tim Brooks
Union Grove, AL
256-753-6323
Kenneth Tyler
Union Grove, AL
256-498-3174
Rick Douglas
Union Grove, AL
256-753-2152
Thomas P Drew
Union Grove, AL
256-753-2996
More Officiant Listings
State Officiant Directory
Your Wedding Officiant is perhaps the most important part of your wedding day. For if someone isn't there who can legally marry you, then you will not be getting married. Search through our listing by state and call a few close by.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Bakersfield
Bay Area
Fresno
Inland Empire
Los Angeles
Mendocino
Northern California
Oakland
Orange County
Sacramento
San Diego
San Fernando Valley
Santa Barbara
Silicon Valley
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Broward
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Myers
Jacksonville
Miami
Orlando
Palm Beach
Panama City
Pensacola
Tampa
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Chicago
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Baltimore
Massachusetts
Boston
Michigan
Detroit
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
Las Vegas
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Atlantic City
New Mexico
New York
Buffalo
New York City
Rochester
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Cincinnati
Cleveland
Columbus
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Pittsburgh
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Arlington
Austin
Corpus Christi
Dallas
Houston
San Antonio
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Seattle
Washington DC
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Mar 5, 2008
A Wedding in 10 Days
Most people have the luxury of spending months or even years planning their wedding. For any number of reasons having a Wedding in a few short days is an option people need to exercise. Whether troop deployment or a family illness, Weddings sometimes need to happen quicker than anticipated. Here is a simple guide to help you get to to the altar in a couple of weeks and make sure you still have a Wedding you can always remember.
Make Your invitations- With such a short time period, ordering invitations are off the list, so why not make your own. You can head down to your local office supply store. Buy some high quality paper and a cd-rom with templates to add to your computer. Simply find the template that you like the best, fill in your data and print them out. If you don't have a high-quality printer you can save the invitation to a CD and bring it back to your office supply store and have them print the invitations for you. Address the envelopes, stamp and mail.
Wedding Gown- You don't have to settle for an unconventional wedding dress either. I would start by talking to your friends and family and see if anyone would let you borrow theirs for your special day. If this doesn't work or the dress don't fit, head to the local consignment shops and search around. Someone is always trying to sell their Wedding dress, maybe you can find one that is right for you. If you real lucky their might even be a Running of the Brides the weekend before your Wedding
Ceremony Venue- Wherever you choose to have the wedding ceremony -- a church, temple, non-denominational justice of the peace chambers -- make sure you book the date and time you want/need for the wedding. If you need any special equipment, like a chupah (ceremonial canopy) for a Jewish wedding, make certain that it will be available. Ask about prices and see if you can cut a deal considering the short notice. Consider unconventional times, even if their is another wedding planned, see if you can piggy-back it at a later hour.
Book a House- Maybe all the reception venues are booked, especially if it is in the midst of Wedding season. Have it at a relative's house. Chances are that you are getting married in one of your hometowns (if you don't share the same one) or current place of residence. What better way to save money on a banquet hall than by having the reception at the home of someone you know?
Wholesale Florist- search your yellow pages for a local wholesale florist. The two benefits of going wholesale are; they employ large amounts of people which make it possible to arrange large orders in short times, and second they buy everything wholesale so you get huge discounts.
What to serve- Think party planning. Order deli trays, fruit platters, veggie trays and have someone pick them up. You can even arrange them yourself at the reception house. Buy soda and bags of ice, use paper plates, You can even get fancier plates to serve food on. This will make clean-up a great deal easier for whoever gets stuck giving you this gift.
A little help from your friends- Still need music, pictures, and a cake? Ask your friends! Even if none of your friends is a DJ/KJ, photographer, or baker, chances are they know some people who can cut you a deal. If you can't afford a photographer, you probably have a friend who takes awesome pictures. Have them make the memories of your wedding. If there are family photos and such that you want, make sure you let them know. Get someone whom you know is famous for their goodies to make the cake. It may not be the five-tier cake that you dreamed about when you were ten, but it will be special just the same. If you are lucky, you have a friend who specializes in cake decorating who can build your five-tier dream. Use a small boom box for music at the ceremony and just have someone push the buttons. Make CD mixes of the songs you want in the order you want them. Supply the person with a list of what to play when and leave it to them. Have the same person bring the boom box to the reception house so that you can have your wedding party intros, first dance, etc.
Anyways I know it isn't every Bride's dream to be married and plan a wedding in a couple of weeks, but at least with these suggestions you can have a Wedding worth remembering in that short period of time.
--Mickey
More Wedding Planning Articles
More Bride's Guide Articles
Start Your Honeymoon Right
When you start the planning process for your Honeymoon, keep in mind the new tradition of the mini-vacation. The idea is simple, on your way to or back from your actual honeymoon plan a weekend or few days in one of these major cities and enjoy the local splendor offered. Chances are if you on you way to europe, asia or Hawaii you will have a layover in one of these tourist sites. Take advantage and turn a two hour layover into a two day extravaganza.
London- If you want history and culture we've got it, but we can also show you how to have a good time. If you want to laze around London's pubs and restaurants, see a show at a West End theatre, take in a concert of one of London's five symphony orchestras, visit the opera or see the next Smiths, Oasis or Rolling Stones appearing in a pub venue we have the details. We offer a mixture of fact and opinion designed to enable you to make the most of your visit, without getting ripped off - we can even show you how to get it all for free. For more information on London. www.visitlondon.com/
Boston has been known as the Hub (short for the Hub of the Universe) for hundreds of years. It is famous for everything from the Red Sox and Paul Revere to Cheers and clam "chowdah," Boston is a popular destination for so many reasons. Part history lesson, part modern metropolis, the Hub offers attractions to suit every taste and interest. Plus, it's incredibly easy to get around, either on foot or by the user-friendly public transportation system, called the T. Hop on the Freedom Trail, a well-preserved pedestrian path that weaves in and out of historic neighborhoods, from the lively Boston Common and Public Garden to the gold-domed State House and Fenway Park. Between landmarks, you can shop the fabulous stores on Newbury Street, have a delicious authentic Italian meal in the North End or browse the antique shops and distinctive red-brick buildings of Beacon Hill. The more culturally inclined will not want to miss the city's world-class museums, theater and music venues. Family friendly to the core, Boston also boasts a renowned aquarium, children's museum and science museum, making it a great getaway for all. For more information of Boston.
New York City's magnificence has captivated millions of visitors over the years for being one of the most exciting cities in the world. Whether it's your first visit or your 50th, New York City is a great destination for a weekend trip. See the landmark sights, catch a Broadway show or explore small, off-the-beaten-path museums like the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Just as it has activities to suit every interest, New York City has hotel options to suit every pocketbook. Whether you're looking for a hip new hotel, an old standard or a budget inn, you'll have plenty of options. For more information on New York City.
Los Angeles- The first-time visitor may well find Los Angeles thrilling and threatening in equal proportions; it's a place that picks you up and sweeps you along whether you want it to or not. While it has its fine-art museums, California cuisine and a few old-fashioned urban plazas, what people really come here for is to experience the city that has come to epitomize the American Dream – the fantasy worlds of Disneyland and Hollywood, as well as the gilded opulence of Beverly Hills and Malibu. For more information on LA.
Dubai- It has spectacular beaches but is not Australia; it is one of the world’s most secure destinations but is not Singapore; it has opulent city hotels and superb beachside resorts but is neither Jakarta nor Bali. It has world class shopping but is not Hong Kong.Welcome to Dubai, city of merchants, cultural crossroads, second largest of the seven United Arab Emirates. A country where the dust of the desert is clearing to reveal the potential for one of the most significant international cities of the 21st century. For more information on Dubai.
Hong Kong- Enjoy the quintessential Hong Kong experiences of endless shopping, big-city nightlife and delicious dim sum, but save time for other activities. Ride a double-decker tram past neon signs in English and Cantonese. Board a harbor cruise or head up to Victoria Peak to see vistas of lush green mountains and skyscrapers lining the coast. Spend the day on Lantau Island or at Hong Kong Disneyland or Ocean Park. Relax on the beach. And don't forget to take in Hong Kong's spectacular night views. For more information on Hong Kong.
Toronto- As the largest city in Canada, Toronto, or known as just "T.O.", attracts millions of visitors each year. Known for its clean and friendly atmosphere, Toronto is renowned for playing host to the travellers of the world. Whether you are looking for excellent shopping, beautiful golf courses, fine dining or just seeing the sights, Toronto will impress every visitor. For more information on Toronto.
So take a small pre-honeymoon trip and extend the celebration as long as you can.
--Mickey
Mar 4, 2008
How to Have a Hawaiian Wedding
If you wish to have a Hawaiian themed Wedding you will be able to by following some of these Wedding Traditions of the Hawaiian people.
Weddings in Hawaii are typically an outdoor beach wedding, a tropical garden or perhaps on a boat sailing around the majestic Isles. It is customary for a Japanese-American bride to fold 1,001 paper cranes prior to her wedding to create good luck and a long happy life. This is a departure from standard Japanese Tradition where the brides make 1,000, the Hawaiian population has added one for "good luck."
It is the customary practice of the Hawaiian Weddings, especially at Filipino Weddings, for the bride and groom to have a "money dance" called the pandango. During the dance, the guests show their good wishes for the newlyweds with money gifts.
The Charles E. King tune "Hawaiian Wedding Song," made famous by Elvis Presley is usually sung during a Hawaiian Wedding Ceremony. Elvis actually sand this song to his own bride, during their Wedding Ceremony.
Your Wedding feast could include some of the regional favorites: sweet and sour pineapple county ribs, creamy portuguese grits with sauted shrimp, hirame sashimi with ponzu sauce, crabmeat stuffed hirame, moi pokem poached or fried moi with shoyu sauce, vegetable tofu, chicken salad, shrimp, crab cakes, lobster and salmon. Fresh fruits might include pineapple, mangos, coconuts, kiwi, oranges and star anise. Most Hawaiian beaches do not allow alcoholic beverages so usually that will wait to the Honeymoon.
The bride wears a "holoku"- a white formal version of the muumuu. Instead of a veil, a woven garland of island flowers or "haku lei" is worn around her head. White orchis sprays are typical in the bride's bouquet. The groom will wear a long sleeve white shirt and white pants. A long rend, or colored sash, is worn wrapped around the his waist. A lei of maile and ilima flowers adorns his neck.
Hawaiian Wedding bands bearing the couple's name in Hawaiian are often exchanged during the ceremony. A favorite choice for the bride is "kuuipo" or sweetheart.
So now with these customs in place it would be easy to have a Hawaiian themed Wedding at your local Beach. Or you could do what thousands of americans a year do and have a Destination Wedding: Hawaii.
--Mickey
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Traditional Turkish Wedding
A traditional Turkish wedding consists of several different parts such as going to bride’s house, the engagement, the henna night and the wedding ceremony. There may be some differences from region to region (for example in the eastern region the wedding lasts 40 days and 40 nights or in another region the henna night takes more than one night ). The Turkish wedding ceremony also has some similarities with the Christian wedding such as the bride and the groom being introduced to each others’ families.
When a man and a woman decide to get married, the very first thing they have to do is to arrange for the families to meet. It is a custom for the groom’s family to go to the bride’s house to ask for the girl’s hand in marriage for their son. Before visiting the bride’s house, they buy a large box of chocolates and a well arranged bouquet of flowers. The meaning of the chocolates is “let’s eat sweet and then talk sweet”. The two families start a polite conversation in order to get to know about each other, and while they are chatting the bride offers Turkish coffee to the members of each family. She then presents the chocolates brought by the groom’s family, and the polite conversation is carried on to the climax of the ultimate intention of the visit. It is also acceptable for the members of the bride’s family to ask personal questions about his education, where he works and what his intentions are for the future.
After this, the eldest member, if not a grandparent then the groom’s father, opens the subject by saying that the young people have met and have decided to be united, and as tradition states, they officially want the girl’s hand in marriage with the permission of her family. In reply, an elder member of the bride’s family speaks, nowadays usually stating that the young couple has agreed amongst themselves and it is now only natural that the family agrees. The bride and groom-to-be kiss the hands of the eldest members of each family, and they begin to talk about the engagement, henna night and the wedding date. When they have decided on the date, they begin to talk about the arrangements like how and where they will get engaged, when the henna night will take place and then, of course, details about the wedding ceremony. It is also a custom for the groom’s family to ask what is required by the bride’s family regarding jewelry or endowment money.
The engagement itself is usually carried out by the bride’s family. On the engagement day the members of each family go to the arranged place of the engagement. The groom’s family are responsible for buying the gold band which will be placed on the ring finger of the right hand and also either a solitaire or a three, five or seven stone diamond ring, a gold or diamond set (comprising of necklace, earrings, and bracelet), and close relatives such as aunts and uncles will also give a gold bracelet or some other types of jewelry. An appointed elder member of the family will make a short speech as each gold band is placed on the fingers of the couple. The rings are connected by a red ribbon, and when the rings are placed the red ribbon is cut, making the engagement official. The newly engaged couple then kisses the eldest members of each family, and the younger members of each family bring the engagement cake to the room. It is also traditional that if the engagement takes place at the bride’s home, the younger members of each family go out with the couple for the evening.
The most important part of the Turkish traditional wedding is the “Kına Gecesi”, or Henna Night. This night belongs to the bride, so only the women come to the bride’s house that night. The bride-to-be is sat on a chair with a veil over her head (usually red) to hide the bride’s tears. Next, young girls with candles set in henna-filled dishes in their hands walk around the bride and sing traditional songs. When the songs end, the prayers start. After the prayers are completed a female member of the family prepares the henna and puts some of it into each palm of the bride. The bride closes her hand and doesn’t open it until the mother-in-law places a gold coin in her palm. This represents wealth or luck or sometimes both. Afterwards both hands are covered and tied with a red cloth-glove and the celebrations begin. Everyone eats the home-made meals, and afterward all dance together and have fun. This is the last night of that bride will stay with her family and enjoy her single life.
It is also traditional for the groom to have a stag night with his friends in order to say goodbye to bachelorhood. The groom usually gets together with his friends and goes out to a place with entertainment where they usually get the groom quite drunk and stay out until the early hours of the morning.
The wedding day itself, is usually quite chaotic. The bride is off to the hairdresser where she will be prepared and pampered while the groom is collected by his friends and the wedding car is sent to the car wash and florist. The groom is taken to the barber, and the same treatment of being prepared and pampered is carried out on him. Once ready, the groom and the driver go off to the bride’s home and collect her from her father’s house. Then they are off to the location of the wedding ceremony. The wedding registry is carried out by the marriage official. Once the ceremony is over the bride and groom go to the family elders first, where they are congratulated as the elders present them with “takı”, this being the normal gift of gold or diamonds as is deemed suitable.
The service of the meal begins and entertainment is followed until late. The official dancing is started off by the bride and groom with a slow dance and then other family members join in. Gradually the floor is filled by the other guests at the wedding. Traditional dances continue throughout the evening. The wedding cake arrives later in style. It is normal for the bride and groom to stay until a majority of the guests have left.
Although the times have changed and some customs are not as strict as they were in the past, there are still a lot of traditional ways that continue, such as the family meeting, the engagement and the henna night.
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Mar 3, 2008
Setting Up Your Personal Wedding Website
You might ask why you need a Personal Wedding website. The answer is simple- to show off to the world the important events going on in your life right now. Another practical answer is that it can inform your guest of certain specifics about your wedding that will make everyone's lives a little easier. You can include information that will help your guests do things like look up directions to your ceremony and reception sites, plan things to do during their stay if they are coming from out of town, and simply to share in the excitement of the wedding to come.
First things first, there is really no need to pay for your own wedding website. Nearly every Wedding Site listed on the right of this page will offer a free personal Wedding Page. Let me quickly take you through starting your wedding website.
Sign up for a free account on Theknot.com, which will also give you plenty of other great features. Simply fill out the form and start reaping the benefits.
Now to setup your own webpage: click here
Click the Start Now button of the offer on the left
Go through each section of the page and fill in the blanks. Don't forget to add a picture of you (usually an engagement Picture!)
You can add any Gift Registries you have already set up, or add them later once you do. This way your guests can use the link directly from your site to buy a wedding gifts.
Hit Publish, and the site is finished.
If you are worried about your details and information being out in the world, you can add a guest password, which you can include on your invitations or announcements so only the people you choose will be able to access your site.
Simply include the unique address on your Invitations and any Wedding related emails that you send, and your guests will be able to quickly see all the details about your special day. They can also RSVP on the site itself. I wouldn't suggest using this as the only means of RSVP's but it can be helpful to your event planning if some people do use it.
If you found this article helpful please add a link to our site from your webpage. On Theknot.com you can add the following to the additional details section.
For all your Wedding Advice needs visit Modern Wedding Advice
Just copy and paste.
--Mickey
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At Last Lyrics
"At Last" by Etta James
At last
my love has come along
my lonely days over
and life is like a song
Ooh, yeah, yeah
At last
the skies above are blue
My heart was wrapped up in clover
the night I looked at you
I found a dream
that I could speak to
A dream that I
can call my own
I found a thrill
to press my cheek to
A thrill that I have never known
Ohh, yeah, yeah
You smile
you smile
Ooh and then the spell was cast
And here we are in heaven
for you are mine at last
Listen to This Wedding First Dance Song Here
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