Author: bridalpartytees

BRIDEZILLA! 20 Proven Ways to Make your Bride Unhappy

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Wedding days are really the bride’s day. It’s the event she’s been dreaming of since she was a little girl, the one she’s been building up in her mind her entire life. Grooms must put aside their childish whims and be on their best behavior. Despite it being a day for both to celebrate, grooms must really be on their best behavior – even the most minor offense will not be tolerated. So that being the case here are a few other things a groom should definitely not do on your wedding day, lest he want to be publicly ditched at the altar.

  1. Show Up Hungover: While it’s inevitable that the groom and all of his rowdy friends will want to celebrate and/or mourn his loss of bachelor status the night before the wedding, a groom who shows up reeking of Wild Turkey, urine, and cigarettes is not going to win any brownie points with his intended. If your man has a penchant for booze, make sure he’s stocked with the necessary hangover elixirs the next day. Especially if you sense he has cold feet – the more frightened he is, the more likely he is to go on a bender in the days leading up to the event.
  2. Show Up Drunk: The only thing worse than showing up hungover is showing up fully drunk (though one could argue that arriving at your wedding after consuming a large amount of psychedelics might rank a little higher on this scale.) However, few things would put you more on edge than a groom who is spontaneously “wooing” and cheering, slurring his vows, laughing and snorting through the ceremony, basically falling over at the altar, or worst of all, carrying a beer down the aisle. Consider the story about the woman in India whose husband-to-be showed up so drunk to his own wedding that his bride married his brother instead. Do you have a back-up plan in place?
  3. Rhyming Vows: Exchanging vows is one of the most special moments of a wedding ceremony, so it’s certain to say a bride would be less than amused by a groom who decided to “lighten” the moment with his comedic or musical debut. Rhyming or rapping his vows is both embarrassing for the bride and ridiculously cheesy. What bride wants to hear her husband declare his love by saying, “Hickory dickory dock, our hearts will soon be locked. I tried to run, you wouldn’t go away, and that’s what brings us here today!”
  4. Invite an Ex: Remember when your groom asked you if he could invite his skanky ex-girlfriend who likes to call the house and hang up to the wedding? Remember when you said no? That should have been the end of it, right? Well, apparently not, because as you are walking down the aisle concentrating on looking misty-eyed and gorgeous there the harlot is in the fourth row on the groom’s side. It may take all the inner strength you possess to keep yourself from hurling your bouquet in the groom’s face and kneeing him in the groin. Inviting an ex behind the bride’s back is the ultimate no-no.
  5. Get a Facial Tattoo: Can you even fathom the feeling of horror you might experience if you showed up to the church to find your groom had fulfilled his longtime fantasy of tattooing his entire face before the wedding? Marking his face with tribal art the day before your wedding is definite grounds for immediate deportation to Papua New Guinea or northern New Zealand. Getting a tattoo to commemorate the big day is one thing, but it has to be discreet. Writing your name across his forehead in permanent ink is neither endearing nor attractive. This is the kind of faux pas that just might get some grooms left standing solo at the altar.
  6. Book His Favorite Styx Cover Band: You argued over the music for weeks. You wanted traditional DJ fare, maybe a sweet little string quartet during the ceremony and reception. He argued – quite passionately – for his favorite 80’s glam metal cover band, the kind who come complete with leather pants and eyeliner. You said no; he seemingly obliged. But then behind your back he canceled the viola player and booked the band. You show up to your reception to find a troupe of Alice Cooper look-alikes screaming racy lyrics to your horrified grandmother.
  7. Ditch His Pants: The Ralph Lauren tuxedo the two of you picked out for the wedding was so very nice. You knew your groom wanted a more casual feel, but you’d been dreaming about having a traditional, formal wedding all your life. You appreciated the fact that your man seemed so willing to sacrifice his wishes for yours. Until you hooked your arm in your father’s and looked to see your intended waiting for you at the end of the aisle in his tuxedo jacket, bow tie, and pair of plaid shorts. Hopefully, he at least wouldn’t have his groomsmen follow his lead, but, then again, maybe it would help him blend a little better. And let’s hope also that he at least had the good sense to switch from his black knee socks and lace ups to a more appropriate pair of flip flops.
  8. Keg Stands: Frat party staples like Jager bombs and keg stands should not be brought into your wedding reception, especially when it’s your groom demanding the action. A groom encouraging and pressuring your skirt-wearing Aunt Millie to hoist her legs over her head and drink beer straight from the tap while your groom and his friends lead a chorus of “Chug, chug, chugs” is not a man mature enough to handle the institution of marriage.
  9. Criticizing the Bride’s Appearance: This one is something of a no-brainer, but you would be surprised at the level of insensitivity some men possess. Despite what a bride chooses to wear or how she has cut or styled her hair, grooms should never be heard or seen making gagging noises, pretending to vomit, or blatantly asking the bride, “Geez, did you go drinking before hitting the bridal salon?” or “How did you get the ax?” Some things are better left unsaid.
  10. Dirty Dancing : If your groom really appreciates his cheesy dance moves you might want to cut him off from the reception early before he tries to wage some freaky-deaky dance warfare on your grandmother. The “running man” you can tolerate – heck, you’d even stand for a few “sprinklers” and a “Roger Rabbit” or two. But let your groom know beforehand that grinding on the guests is strictly prohibited. I mean seriously can you really imagine or would you even want to imagine Granny grinding up on Grandpa to the tune of some new Kayne West track? Classy right?
  11. Guitar Solo: If your groom has recently taken up guitar, or if he’s been at it for awhile but really just sucks, then you would likely not be too psyched if he decided to demonstrate his musical chops for your entire guest list. Avoid unwanted guitar solos or off-key serenades by opting to not hire a band and go with a DJ instead. Keep instruments far away from your husband-to-be and eliminate the risk that your man will follow through on his flamboyant urge to imitate David Lee Roth.
  12. Having his Groomsmen Wear Matching Oakley Blades: Warning: If your husband-to-be was a Phi Delt in the 80s or is just hopelessly stuck in the era, constantly reminiscing about water skiing outings made in neon pink swimming trunks, then you could be in danger of him pulling a stunt like this – asking his groomsmen to all wear matching iridescent Oakley Razor Blade sunglasses throughout the ceremony. Not only is this trend hugely unattractive and about as “with the times” as a wooly mammoth, but it’s just a sign that he can’t be trusted and will never leave the past behind. If any artifact of that decade should be left behind and forgotten, it’s this one.
  13. Moonwalk to the Altar: Your wedding day is the one day of the year – possibly of your life – that you get the hands-down right to make as grand of an entrance as possible. That’s why you have every reason to be mad as hell if your groom tries to upstage you with a grand entrance of his own. If he does anything beyond calmly and deliberately walking to his post at the altar, turn on your heels and hightail it out of there. Any moonwalking down the aisle or entrance that involves a Rush song playing in the background and special effects like smoke and lights is fair grounds to call the whole thing off.
  14. Reveals a BIG secret: Hopefully, by the time you and your intended are actually tying the knot, you will know just about everything about each other. Which is why it would be deeply disturbing if your groom decides to use the occasion as an opportunity to reveal something personal and awkward about himself. Sure, having all of your family and friends gathered together in one place makes it easy for him to get the admission off his chest in one swoop, since everyone who is important to him will be present. But having your groom steal the spotlight by confessing he’s bisexual, revealing a former drug habit, or introducing the crowd to his illegitimate, secret 10-year-old son will certainly ruin your entire day – especially if it’s news to you, too.
  15. Switch Out First Dance Song: The ceremony is over and you are gathered before your friends and family, standing in the spotlight on the dance floor, ready for your first dance with your new husband. You smile demurely, waiting for the DJ to kick on the song to which you both agreed was the perfect mood-setter for your first twirl as man and wife – “A Whole New World” by Peabo Bryson. The lights dim and the DJ hits the switch. Before you know what’s happening, your groom is grinning like a maniac, jumping around the room, and doing the chicken dance. The jerk switched out your wedding song without telling you. Horrified, you have two choices: either walk off the floor or tuck your wrists under your armpits and start clucking.
  16. Wearing Heelys: If your groom decided to forgo his tux-issued shoes for a pair of brand new Heely sneakers – the shoes with wheels in the heel – then you can take it as a sure-fire sign that your groom is one of the most immature people on the planet. Remind him that the law states a person must be over the age of 18 to get married without parental consent and then roll him out of the picture. Lets be honest if this is really something you need to explain to your groom ladies…you two are probably not going to be a match made in heaven for long. Five years from now I can see your future now and I have two words for you DIVORCE SETTLEMENT!
  17. Shave Your Name into His Head: Romantic gestures from the groom on your wedding day are very nice. One standard act of love would be sending the bride a gift – maybe some roses or some jewelry. It would even be kind of nice for him to hire a small prop plane to write your name in the sky. But shaving it into his head the morning of the wedding is not included on this list of sweet and acceptable gestures. If this happens, just hope you can catch him before your debut at the altar so you can find him a hat or shave the rest of his hair off. If your man comes to the wedding with this going on kindly send him back down the aisle with his 4th grade text book and tell him to call you in 10 years!
  18. Crying Uncontrollably: Again, sentimental gestures from the groom are nice, and tearing up a little when he sees you walking down the aisle is completely fine – even a little desirable one would think. But the man must show a little self-control. Body-wracking sobs are not the look and feel you are going for here. If your groom is crying so loud that you can’t hear your cue to say “I Do” then elbow him in the side and try to get the situation under control. If that doesn’t work, you may want to join him.
  19. Objecting, Jokingly: You know that part in the ceremony where the preacher asks that if anyone knows any reason why the bride and groom should not be married that they should speak now or forever hold their peace? It’s a moment where the crowd, and by all means the bride and groom, are really expected to remain silent. Anyone who would actually pick that moment to express their disapproval with your relationship is not a friend you want to keep. But it would be wholly worse if the person to “speak up” during the ceremony was the man you were marrying. No matter how sarcastic or joke-prone your husband is pretending to object to your own wedding is not even remotely funny.
  20. Getting Beat Up : If your groom has a nasty temper, then one thing you might be wary of is the likelihood of him showing up in suit and tie with a black eye and broken nose. That photographer is expensive for Pete’s sake and nothing is going to ruin your lifelong memories more than photos of your groom smiling broadly with missing teeth. Don’t let your groom get beat up before the wedding. Make sure any raucous behavior he engages in prior to the ceremony is far away from the town dive bar.

Penny Pinchers:50 Tips to Help You Pay for Your Own Wedding

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Some of us aren’t endowed with trust funds or uber-rich parents. If that’s the case, it means preparing for your wedding can be something of a stressful chore. With the average cost of weddings these days topping $20,000, it certainly can cause some worry. But don’t fret – there are many ways to cut costs and still have a fabulous wedding. Here are some tips on how throw a classy wedding on a dime.

Loans

You will clearly need to save, save, save if you’re going to foot the bill for your wedding, but the good news is that some of the costs can be financed. In the unfortunate addition to racking up some credit card debt, you can rack up some old-fashioned bank-loan debt, as well. It may sound somewhat formal and heavy for such a happy occasion, but it’s pretty common to take out a loan to help cover your expenses. And lots of banks have plans to suit your financial needs. But a warning to the wise – while it’s easy to get a loan, it’s also easy to fall into a money-sucking trap. Try to go for loans that allow for a short payback term to reduce the amount you’re spending on interest and stay on top of your payments!!! Don’t let the most joyous day of your life lead you to financial ruin. Loans can get great if used properly, but its advisable to pay with saving for the wedding… be responsible!

  1. Bridal Loans.com: Bridal Loans is a California-based company that offers loans between the amount of $1,500 and $25,000. They also offer payment plans that extend from 12 to 48 months, so you can pay the loan off as fast as you want. With an interest rate at 12.9 percent, it’s better to pay these loans off quickly. But, if you’re in a bind, this company can definitely help you meet your needs.
  2. Bank of America: This mega-bank offers loans of up to $50,000, which can be spent on flowers, cakes, dresses, or food. You won’t have to put up any collateral to qualify and you’ll pay no annual fee. While interest rates fluctuate, they do go as low as 8.99 percent.
  3. American Unsecured: This company makes it easy to get a loan for any amount up to $50,000. You can pay the borrowed amount off over 24 to 84 months. The long loan term relieves the pressure, and the application is easy to fill out. Interest rates here can rival those at Bank of America, going as low as 8.99 percent.
  4. Citibank: Citibank, like many banks, has what it calls a Flex Line of Cash, which works just like a home equity loan. Offered at an interest rate of 9.99 percent, you can take out a loan to spend on whatever your heart desires. The loan term is automatically set at 60 months, but you can change that to make it shorter.
  5. Loan Back: This easy-to-use service offers low interest rates and super-detailed plans. Simply enter the amount you’re borrowing and the reason for the loan and the online tool will calculate your monthly payments immediately and let you know the total amount of interest you’ll pay over the term. Convenient, reasonable, and hassle-free.
  6. Capital One: Capital One provides very flexible personal loans that can be used for whatever you want. Payment terms are flexible and the application can be completed online. The interest rate of 6.99 percent is also pretty low in comparison to other lenders and you’ll be guaranteed to pay the same fixed amount each month.
  7. E Loan: This company provides consumers a variety of personal loans up to $25,000 without homeownership required. The detailed and helpful website allows you to do most of the math online and also fill out the application. No annual fees are required, either.
  8. America First: America First offers flexible personal loans that can be payed off over many different lengths of time. Clearly, the longer you stretch it out, the lower the interest rate. And like most lenders, rates will increase depending on your credit history. But it’s a credible credit union with a plethora of options for the consumer.
  9. Wells Fargo: Wells Fargo is another national bank with a solid reputation for providing flexible personal loans. And if you pay off the loan directly from your Wells Fargo account, you’ll pay even more. Definitely worth some research here to see if it’s the bank for you.
  10. Bank Rate: If you’re still not convinced that any of these options are up your alley, try this website that allows you to see what’s available. Compare interest rates and graph the rate trends all within a few minutes. By using an objective comparison site like this one, you’ll be confident in your choice.

How to Save Money

So now you know that if push comes to shove you will be able to get some financial assistance for your wedding in the form of a loan. But you may want to save that for a last resort. The very first thing you need to do when planning a wedding on your own dime is start saving! You many not think that you’re a spendaholic, but you would be surprised at how many extra costs you can cut out if you just put your mind to it. Here are a few ways to start fattening up your bank account.

  1. Track Your Spending: All debt gurus will tell you that you can’t start being smart about your money until you understand why you are so bad with it in the first place. For one entire week, write down everything that you spend money on. You can use a simple piece of paper or go more formal with software like Excel or Quicken. At the end of the week, study your habits and make notes about where you can cut out the extra dollars.
  2. Cut Out Extras: Now it’s time to tighten the belt a little. Stop going out to eat so much and start cooking at home, rent movies instead of hitting up the theater, make coffee in the morning instead of stopping at Starbucks. While you don’t have to totally deprive yourself, if you are spending money on entertainment or unnecessary items every day you can save a fortune by taking a more frugal route.
  3. Conserve Energy: Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that energy costs these days are through the roof. There are so many things you can do to shrink your utility costs. Make sure all of your lights and fans are turned off when not in use, turn the heat and air conditioning down, and unplug appliances when they’re not in use. Making small changes like this will impact both your billfold and your carbon footprint.
  4. Bike: Another way to save bukus of money is by changing your transportation habits. Park that old gas-guzzling clunker in the garage and hop on the bus. Or take your bike instead and get some exercise while helping the environment.
  5. Be Responsible: A lackadaisical outlook toward your existing debt can wreak havoc on your finances in the form of astronomical late fees. Examine your credit cards and other financial accounts and see what the late fees and interest rates are for not being on top of your payments. They will add up fast and can easily sneak by you if you are not vigilant.
  6. Go Vintage: Forgo shopping trips to Neiman Marcus and Saks. If you need some new garments, check out the local second hand thrift stores and vintage shops in your area. You’ll spend less on clothes and amass a fashionable and unique wardrobe at the same time.
  7. Hide Your Credit Cards: You may not want to go totally without credit cards, but you may definitely want to think about at least hiding them or not keeping them on your person. Credit cards encourage indiscriminate spending and will only help you wrack up more debt. Spend money you actually have and you’ll stay above the water, financially speaking.
  8. Get a Roommate: If you have a little extra space in your home, consider taking on a boarder to generate some extra income. Or if you live in an apartment or home that is way too big and expensive, move into a more humble abode until after your wedding. Living with other people will cut all of your current expenses in half.
  9. Have a Garage Sale: Make some money on the stuff that’s cluttering up your house by holding a garage or yard sale. And don’t fall into the trap of under pricing everything – if an item is special, people will be willing to spend. Plus, haggling is a common occurrence at yard sales, so make sure you start on the high end.
  10. Ebay: In the same vein as holding a garage sale, you can also make money by hocking your wares on the internet. Place some high dollar items that you don’t need anymore on Ebay and hold out for the highest bidder. Lots of people make their entire living doing this. Just think what an entire annual salary could do for your wedding budget.

D.I.Y.

Doing it yourself could not be more hip these days. And honestly there are so many things you actually can do yourself. While it may sound daunting at first, armed with a few simple guidebooks and instructions, you can essentially make anything that you would possibly need for your wedding even if you aren’t the craftiest bride. Making things yourself will help you cut costs, while also earning you the admiration of all your guests.

  1. Bouquet: Making a wedding bouquet is one of the easiest things to tackle on your wedding accessory list. You may have to wake up extra early on your wedding day, but assembling and wrapping up some flowers is not difficult and actually might be very therapeutic. Stick to flowers that are in season or cheap by nature, like daisies, sunflowers, freesia and Sweet William, to keep costs down even more.
  2. Veil: Do you have any idea how expensive veils are these days? If you don’t, you may not want to risk a heart attack by looking into the matter. If you do, enough said. The good thing for you is that veils are extremely inexpensive and pretty darn simple to make, and there are dozens of resource guides to be found online and in fabric stores.
  3. Programs and Placecards: If you are planning to have paper items like programs and place cards at your wedding, you don’t have to spend a ton on some fancy graphic designer. These items are just as easy to design and print yourself if you have even the most basic color printer. If you’re artistic abilities are really bad, look for templates online and plug in your personal information!
  4. Hair Accessories : So you want some nice beaded accents or ribbon-laced barrettes for you and your bridesmaids? No sweat. Make them yourself by buying the raw materials and a glue gun. Just look for photos of examples and copy it. If you’re having trouble, enroll in a weekend craft workshop and ask the instructor for help.
  5. Seat Covers: This one may be a bit adventurous for some and you will definitely need a sewing machine, but it is possible to make your own seat covers and avoid rental fees. However, it may be less hassle to find the basic covers for cheap and then tie on your own ribbons or decorations. Some rental companies loan sheaths for as low as $2 a pop! Do some research and find what’s right for you.
  6. Invitations: Just like your programs or other paper products, it’s very easy to make your own wedding invitations. If you are dealing with a large quantity, you may want to outsource the printing, but designing the concept can be done for free. Bring your costs down by using recycled paper.
  7. Jewelry: If there’s anything we’ve learned from the plethora of bead stores around, it’s that anyone can make their own jewelry. The same goes for wedding jewelry. As long as your not looking to be covered in diamonds – and given your budget, we’re assuming you’re not – then you can follow any pattern of your choice to make your own earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. This could also be a fun activity for your bachelorette party – everyone makes the jewelry they plan to wear!
  8. Bridesmaids Gifts: You’ve got to get them something, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Plus, a homemade gift is always more special than something store bought. Now that you know how to make jewelry, you could make them earrings, hand paint or decorate some nice picture frames, or make a personalized scrapbook for each friends with details you’re your friendship.
  9. Dresses : This money-saving option is not for the meek. Making your own dress requires a lot of time, patience and skill. But if you have those it can be done.
  10. Make Your Own Accessories: All you need is a needle and thread to make your own pillow for your ring bearer. Brainstorm about other non-complicated accessories you can cobble together yourself and get a bit crafty.

General Tips to Keep Your Costs Down

Cutting back on the amount of hired help at your wedding is one solid way you can keep costs down. Here are some general rules to employ so you can pull off a great wedding without working too much overtime.

  1. Money Tree: Let your guests help pay for the celebration. Instead of registering for gifts, register a money tree. Have your guests give you money instead of unnecessary pearl-encrusted picture frames. The money tree makes gift giving easy for your guests and beneficial for you.
  2. Keep the Guest List Small: This may be easier said than done for some of you, but one way to do this is to limit the affair to close friends and immediate family. Don’t worry about offending your great Aunt Pearl – it’s your day! One way to get around hurt feelings is to hold a very simple reception at your home after the wedding for those who couldn’t come to the ceremony. And if you do have a big list, don’t let friends bring random dates. Cut corners any way you can by eliminating the people who don’t really matter.
  3. Be Your Own DJ: With all of the music technology out there today, you really, really don’t need to hire a DJ for your reception. Make a few playlists appropriate for the different settings you will have at your ceremony, have someone press play, and don’t give it another thought. Why pay someone for something you can get for free?
  4. Bake Your Own Cake: While catering your own wedding may be asking a bit much, one thing you could easily do is bake your own cake. How hard is it to mix up some batter? You may need some assistance or lessons on how to do the icing skillfully, but there’s lots of resources available online and in bookstores for you to be your own teacher.
  5. Get a Cheap Dress: There are plenty of dress merchants who specialize in cheap, affordable gowns that look like they just fell off a designer’s frame. When it comes down to it, you can even find a great, stylish, white dress in your local mall. Keep it simple and no one will even think twice about who you’re wearing on your wedding day. Have a seamstress in the family? Ask them to copy the dress of your dreams for a fraction of the price or in lieu of a wedding gift.
  6. Stay Home: Cut out those monstrous event location rental fees by holding your wedding in your living room or your backyard. If you live in a nasty apartment building, consider your parents’ house or the home of a friend or relative. If you can’t think of anyone, hold your wedding at a local state park or other outdoor location that won’t charge you a fee.
  7. Make Your Own Favors: Don’t spend a dime on fancy favors – take the chance to make your own! Maybe you’re a knitter and can cobble together some cool coasters or beer koozies? Or maybe you’re just an Average Joe with no real creative abilities. In that case, make a mix CD of the songs that mean the most to you and your hubby.
  8. Save on Photography: Ask a friend or remote acquaintance who’s handy with a camera to shoot your wedding and save bundles on expensive photographers. Don’t know anyone off hand? Try inquiring at local photojournalism programs about seniors or grad students who have impressive portfolios. Chances are they’re still looking to add more work to their resume, so you can often get a student to do it for completely free.
  9. Compare Prices: If you’re trying to have a cheap wedding, you cannot be lazy. Be super vigilant about comparing the prices of every vendor in town and in surrounding towns. Hit up internet chat boards and ask other budgeted brides what they ended up paying for various services so you’ll know exactly when you’re being scammed or overcharged.
  10. Cancel the Wedding Planner: While having a wedding planner may reduce your stress and stand to reassure you that you’re not missing anything important, they’re really not necessary unless you have little-to-no time to do any planning. If you do, however, check out any number of wedding websites. Most offer free online workbook tools and checklists that you can use and follow as a reference for free. Having everything documented will calm you and ensure everything is on track.
  11. Online Invites: Save money on design, printing, and postage by sending online invitations to your guests. There are so many web services that make this process easy and that offer fun designs. Also, using online invites saves you a lot of work, because the site will keep a running tally of who is coming to your wedding, who is not, and why. You can also link your invite to your registries, send reminders, directions, all of which make it easy on your guests as well.
  12. Do Your Own Hair: Forget the expensive stylists – you’re not Angelina Jolie. But you can still look fabulous for free if you do your own hair. Many hairstyle websites have step-by-step instructions for different styles or you can go chic and simple by wearing your hair down and natural. Even ponytails are now popular options for wedding dos, so don’t sweat the small stuff.
  13. Do your Own Makeup: You do your own makeup every day, and chances are you don’t look hideous. What special magic is a makeup artist really going to pull beyond making you look like someone you’re not. Study up on some techniques and do your makeup yourself. If you’re really struggling, enlist the help of your mom or another friend.
  14. Have a Brunch: Eggs are so inexpensive they’re almost free. In general, breakfast foods cost a fraction of the cost of hearty, gourmet dinner foods. By hosting a morning wedding, you’ll not only get to take advantage of cheaper rental rates, but you’ll save a bundle on your food bill, as well. And you’ll also fare well on your alcohol bill since people are less likely to drink in the morning.
  15. Cheap Flowers: When ordering flowers, remember a couple of things: stay in season and stay common. Exotic flowers will cost you a pretty penny. But you can also cut costs by ordering from wholesale distributors rather than local florists. Try to avoid extra fees if you can.
  16. Embrace the Odd Hour: One way to avoid the issue of food all together is to hold your ceremony and reception at an odd hour. Try 2 p.m. or late at night. That way most people will have already eaten and likely not be concerned about food. All you have to worry about are the beverages.
  17. Cash Bar: Cash bars at weddings are often thought to be no-nos, but frankly, liquor, wine and beer will end up comprising about 25 percent of your total bill if you pay for an open bar. It’s totally acceptable to make people pay for their own alcohol. To make this less of an issue, have an afternoon ceremony so people won’t be focused on drinking as much. Another option is to offer a cheap wine and beer for free but charge for the hard stuff.

Summer Wedding Tips:100 Resources to Simplify Your Wedding

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If you’re getting married in the summer, you have a whole host of things you need to consider to make sure your wedding is comfortable. While spring and fall brides can just bask in the cool and moderate temperatures, summer brides are often going up against melting heats, seasonal rains, and the discomfort of itchy fabrics. When planning your summer wedding, take the following 100 tips and resources into consideration.
Location

If you have any control over the location of your wedding, try to steer clear of the desert and the south, unless you’re near water. And even then, you need to think about the region’s average temperatures and how to best work with them. For example, if you must get married in Phoenix or Atlanta in July, please consider only indoor venues. If you have some flexibility, however, think about having a destination wedding at some of these extremely pleasant summer locales.

  1. San Francisco: Are you going to San Francisco? Yes. Especially if you are getting married in the summer. The city is gorgeous, with sandblasted-white buildings and a gorgeous backdrop of grassy foothills. Plus, the region is overflowing with a number of good wineries and amazing chefs. Look into picturesque locations in Napa and Sonoma valleys north of the city, check out the beautiful coastal spots south at Half Moon Bay, or get comfortable at one of the luxurious hotels downtown.
  2. Montana: Going north in the summer is a good call, especially when that northern location has the beauty of the mountains of Montana. Montana has many lake resorts and isolated vistas that will take your breath away. If you’re a bride with a country spirit, Montana is definitely worth a look.
  3. Nova Scotia: If you’re an East Coast type of bride think about Nova Scotia. With average July temperatures hovering between 68 and 77 degrees the weather couldn’t be more perfect. Plus, you can easily pick from many seaside resorts. Just think about the wedding photo of you and your hubby in front of one of the country’s iconic lighthouses.
  4. Vancouver Island: OK, so you’re a West Coast kind of bride. Check out Vancouver Island, off the coast from the city of Vancouver in British Columbia. Not only does the island have an active and photogenic city, but it is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and mountains in the distance. A very beautiful locale accompanied by perfect summer temperatures.
  5. Ruidoso, New Mexico: Ruidoso is located in the mountains of New Mexico and unlike the other parts of this desert state it offers cool summer temperatures, beautiful mountain views, and plenty of rivers and lakes. Ruidoso also has a very cute downtown area that caters to tourists – a perfect place for your guests to mill about during their free time.
  6. Alaska: We’ve all heard about the monstrous mosquitoes that plague Alaska each summer, but have you heard about the beautiful weather, snowcapped mountains, and glorious pine trees? Most people dream of going to Alaska, so why not take them there in the summer? You can choose to get married on the coast, on a lake or in the Yukon.
  7. Hawaii: Yes, it gets hot in Hawaii in the summer, but it’s a bearable heat. Let’s face it, Hawaii is pretty much a good option for a wedding no matter what the time of year, despite the rainy season in the winter months. But summer temps in Hawaii are moderate and breezy with a constant ocean wind. And the island culture makes for a festive locale.
  8. Lake Erie, Ontario: Right across the border from Buffalo, New York is a quieter, more isolated area of Lake Erie. Another excellent Canadian destination, consider crossing the border just slightly and checking out such quaint locations like the Buffalo Canoe Club.
  9. Colorado: Mountains galore is what you’ll find in Colorado and you can pretty much guarantee beautiful scenery in any mountain town, whether it be Crested Butte, Teluride, Durango, Breckenridge, or Estes Park. Just warn your guests about the altitude change!
  10. Oregon: Whether you are looking for a beach wedding, a city wedding, or a mountain wedding, look no further than Oregon, a state that has all of this plus gorgeous summer temperatures to boot. Check out Portland, Mount Hood, Eugene, and Astoria, to name a few.

Bridal Dresses

The key to summer bridal dresses is cool, cool, cool – and of course stylish! And more than any other seasonal bride, those of you marrying in the summer need to think about comfort and breathable fabrics. No one wants a sweaty bride. Even if you get married in a temperate climate you will still be dealing with some sun. Look for fabrics like chiffon, organza, cotton eyelet, crepe, and definitely go minimal with the sleeves and the skirts. Here are a few excellent dress styles to consider.

  1. Alfred Angelo: This strappy, simple dress is a perfect example of a summer wedding gown. It’s fitted, but not too tight; airy, but not too causal. And the lightweight lace and gentle beaded accents make for a radiant look that isn’t overdone.
  2. Platinum by Priscilla Short Crepe: This dress is a terrific consideration for a modern, highly sophisticated bride that wants to retain an elegant style while also meshing with the season. This mini-dress is highly movable, falling slightly above the knee and featuring a lovely tulle overlay that lends the dress a sheer, light quality.
  3. Amsale Summer 2008: If you’re looking for a long dress and don’t want to stick to a feminine, princess theme, check out these dresses from Amsale’s new summer line. Most all gowns are floor length and are constructed to be light while still looking full. All the gowns are strapless, accenting the collar bone, and there are a variety of summery looks to choose from, whether you want satin, lace or both!
  4. Paula Varsalona: This dress is an incredible combination of the elegant and casual and would be a great pick for a beach or outdoor wedding. The sheath-style silk and chiffon gown is loose while still looking fitted, and the architectural V-neck gives it class and technical points. This summer bride will look picture-perfect no matter where she weds.
  5. Melissa Sweet Short Lace: A short, A-line gown that screams garden wedding, this dress is simple and stylish; light and cool. The designer didn’t overdo the details and therefore gets great style points for summer wedding dress design. The lace will conceal any perspiration a bride might have and the gentle lavender bow beneath the waist is a great color accent for the season.
  6. Amsale Short: You’ve seen most of Amsale’s long gowns for this season, so now you have to check out one of their shorter numbers. This knee-length bead dress looks so comfy you almost want to sleep in it. Yet it’s also very glamorous and trendy. The beaded V-line straps also add a unique design element to this very light, summery dress.
  7. David’s Bridal Chiffon A-Line: A great dress for summer, this one is made with all the right materials, namely a very sheer chiffon, that falls gracefully to the floor without weighing down the bride. The pleated bodice adds beauty and style to a simple A-line cut and you can practically see the gown moving with a gentle breeze. An excellent, stylish choice for a no-frills bride or an outdoor wedding.
  8. Essence of Australia: A clingy gown that doesn’t accentuate unflattering areas, this floor-length gown is also made of chiffon and is a light option for a bride that still wants a layered look. A strapless gown that’s both sexy and beach casual.
  9. Angel Sanchez: A great look for a funkier bride, this gown by Angel Sanchez is short and sassy. The cut is such that the gown keeps its distance from the bride’s skin, allowing for a little air conditioning. And the gathered neckline and skirt ruffle is very cute and unique. This gown will keep you cool and stylish.
  10. Adele Weschler: Canadian designer Adele Weschler is a master of summer-ready dress designs. So many of her styles incorporate light, flowy fabrics and floral details. She’s a designer that really runs the gamut from simple to ornate and keeps romance and femininity in mind at all times. Check out her latest looks for some inspiration!

Bridesmaids Dresses

Your bridesmaids dresses are almost as important to setting the look and feel of your wedding as your own dress is. Summer is a great time to take advantage of fun and flirty styles and colors for your closest friends. For those of you seeking a casual wedding, think hard about the kinds of dresses your maids could wear again. No one likes to spend lots of money on a dress they’re just going to wear once and give away. Here are a few looks to consider.

  1. Eden Maids: This little number comes in about any color imaginable and is made of a free flowing chiffon material that is stylish and simple. Your bridesmaids will appreciate your departure from the staid tried and true looks and the pleated bust and delicate ribbon add a valued element of style.
  2. Go Gray: This gray number by Laundry is flirty, fun and neutral – just think how well a bouquet of bright pink red or orange flowers would stand out against this stylish backdrop. Plus, this is a dress that your bridesmaids will thank you for – it’s multi-faceted and could be worn to a cocktail party or a club.
  3. Navy Patterned J.Crew: Have fun with some bold patterns! Check out this sassy number from J. Crew. It’s strapless, comfortable, and super-stylish and can definitely be worn again in a variety of situations. Love the bold floral patter on the skirt, as well – definitely different from your typical bridesmaids dress.
  4. BCBG Satin: This dress is a gorgeous shade of blue and features a very attractive and cute design of satin tiered pleating followed by a tulle hem. It’s fun and dressy and versatile all at once and a great shade for summer.
  5. Nicole Miller Fuschia: An excellent, excellent choice for your bridesmaids, this short Nicole Miller dress has a simple cut, but a lot of style. The color is bold and feminine, the draping is expertly done, and the fabric is very breathable. Your friends will thank you for giving the gift of fashion and comfort.
  6. Vera Wang Goddess Gown: How romantic is this dress? The light sky-blue fabric hangs beautifully, creating interesting lines. The material, color, and style couldn’t be more summery if it tried and again even though this is a floor-length dress it’s something that can definitely be re-worn.
  7. Vera Wang Short: Cute and ladylike, this cream colored gown is accented by a black waistband and presents another perfect outfit for a summer bridesmaid. The bubble skirt is very in right now and the sweetheart bodice gives the otherwise simple dress a little texture.
  8. Bebe Slip Dress: Go easy on your bridesmaids’ wallet and give them a little sex appeal with this tight black number from Bebe. Clearly a reusable dress, black is a very popular wedding color – especially appropriate for night weddings. This dress is both sexy and classy.
  9. La Femme Bubble Dress: This spunky, funky strapless dress is a great shade of cherry red. The gathered skirt and well-cut bodice are fashionable and would fit many a body type. A very flirtatious style, indeed.
  10. Betsey Johnson Sea Foam: This cute, ballerina-like dress from Betsey Johnson is a great color and style for summer. Baby blue with a broad pink sash and tulle edging, this dress will stand out and make your bridesmaids look gorgeous!

Hairstyles

The style for summer weddings is light and breezy, so when you’re thinking about how to do your hair steer clear of tight buns and harsh updos. Summer styles are all about flowing locks and tousled curls. Here are a few examples of some looks you’ll definitely want to consider for summer.

  1. Simple Waves: A classic look for any bride, if you’ve got long, luxurious locks, show ‘em off. Go for big easy waves cascading down your back and gently framing your face.
  2. Windswept Updo: This wavy, messy-yet-controlled updo is modern and sophisticated. Get your hair out of your face while still making it a main focal point of your look.
  3. Floral Accent: A loose and layered updo elegantly accented with one strong floral hairpin. A gorgeous look that is definitely in line with the spirit of the season.
  4. Wavy Headband: This look is so cute and mod – it’s perfect for the bride with an impeccable sense of style and a flirtatious nature. It can be worn with a preppy or a funky dress. And it’s unique – you rarely see a bride wearing a headband.
  5. Retro Short: A retro style for a bride with a hip sense of style and short hair. Pin some small calla lilies into a tousle of pin curls.
  6. Natural Updo: The brilliance behind this style is that it’s so natural and simple it looks like the bride did it herself moments before walking down the aisle. A wonderful style that would really suit a casual outdoor wedding.
  7. Long, Soft Curls: A beautiful look, pulling a few strands of hair away from the front of your face is a romantic and classic style.
  8. Long Curly Headband: If you’re going to play around with hair accessories like headbands, try positioning them in between the front and back locks to create a little depth. Also, try out different accessory styles. This headband’s silver, jeweled look adds a fancy touch.
  9. Curly Ponytail: This pulled back bunch of curls is well-accented by flowers. The bangs give the look more layers and the bride achieves the goal of looking both beautiful and carefree at the same time.
  10. Bright Flower: Get bold with your accents, like this bride who used a well-placed, poppy-colored anemone over her right ear. Summer is a colorful and bold season, so your style and accessories should be, too. Be brave and stand out! This look can work for long or short hair, too.

Flowers

Summer weddings are ideal for flower arrangements, since many beautiful species are in bloom during these months. Still, while several varietals are available during the summer keep in mind the temperatures and weather conditions of your chosen location. Obviously, some flowers do better than others in strong heats, winds, or cooler temperatures. Here are some options for your floral arrangements and how they will stack up against your conditions.

  1. Dahlias: These round little pinwheels come in all sorts of colors and different varieties. They’re sturdy and bold while still being feminine and cute. They make a great addition to a centerpiece or can be carried on their own. Check out the Dahlia Aurora Kiss for a truly mesmerizing bud or the Aspen range for a more delicate, dreamy look.
  2. Calla Lilies: The Calla Lily is a very common and standard choice for a wedding, and the reason is because it’s a flower that can stand on it’s own. Its independence and complete elegance is testament to why. Consider a bunch tied together with a delicate ribbon or have your bridesmaids carry one long stem each. They also make an excellent and strong centerpiece for a table arrangement.
  3. Daisy: A classic flower that is both beautiful, cute, and simple. The daisy is a great choice for those brides seeking a casual wedding experience. They signify the innocence of childhood and the playfulness of love. Not a high-tech flower, but a very communicative one, indeed.
  4. Sunflowers: Sunflowers, always iconic, are a terrific choice for summer weddings, mostly because the summer months are when they peak. Plus, if you’re getting married outside – maybe on a mountain top or in a garden – sunflowers are an even better choice because they are a signature wildflower. Consider pairing them with a colorful purple flower like an iris or some gentle lavender.
  5. Zinnias: They come in purple, yellow, pink, orange and green to name a few colors and like Dahlias the Zinnia flower resembles a delicate, fun pinwheel. Play with the colors, insert them into a diverse bouquet, or let them stand alone in huge bunches. The Zinnia is a gorgeous summer flower that will fit in well with any wedding theme or style.
  6. Gerber Daisies: While gerber daisies are available throughout most of the year, they have a playful, fun look that makes them very appropriate for summer weddings. Plus, they’re colorful, so you can pick and choose the shade that best matches your theme.
  7. Hydrangeas: Looking for a bold flower that defines less is more? Then look no further than the hydrangea plant. One clipping is enough for an entire centerpiece or bouquet. This full flower is powerful and establishes a strong presence. It’s available in all sorts of colors and also peaks during the summer. Watch out, though, for high winds or extremely hot conditions, because the hydrangea is as bold as it is frail and tends to wilt quickly in harsh weather.
  8. Hyancinth: This playful, star-shaped flower comes in many colors and seems to exemplify the literal expression of one heart giving itself to another. The sturdy petals will hold up to many summer weather conditions, while retaining a delicate and feminine look.
  9. Cosmos: The Cosmos is a humble flower that is the embodiment of warm wishes and sentimentality. Perfect for a garden wedding or an outside wedding the Cosmos is cute and happy, and while it comes in only a few colors — pinks, white and chocolate brown – the colors are blendable with many wedding themes and styles. They aren’t available though until mid-spring, so you June brides may have to look elsewhere.
  10. Gladiolus: The strength of the Gladiolus is quite formidable and while you may want to mix other flowers in with this varietal to make it a little more feminine and delicate, it’s a flower that is sure to make a bold accent to any arrangement. And considering all the colors available it will be easy to match to any color scheme.

Summer Wedding Themes

Summer is a great time to play with color and flowers and go big with them both! Whether you are getting married at the beach or in your backyard, there are so many creative and exciting things one can do to liven up an outdoor space. Here a re just a few style points and trends to use as a guide.

  1. Nautical: If you’re getting married lakeside or seaside, consider a nautical theme. Navy, yellow, and gold are the colors to look to for this preppy style. Use decorative ropes throughout your reception area and sailboat-shaped place cards.
  2. Garden: Garden weddings are the ultimate style trend for summer and you can go with this theme in just about any location. The key to carrying it off is lots and lots of cascading flowers, pastels, and ribbons. Go with neutral, natural colors, hang lights from trees, and use chair covers with wide sashes.
  3. Environmentally Conscious: The absolute biggest and brightest trend for wedding themes this year is going green. And what better time to defy global warming than during the warmest months of all? Make everything about your wedding eco-friendly and take the color of the movement literally – green is an excellent color scheme for a summer wedding!
  4. Starlight: Make your wedding sparkle with diamond accents and some creative lighting! Hold your reception at night and use twinkling spotlights and candles to make it feel like you’re dancing under the stars. Go for a color theme of silver, diamond white, navy and plum.
  5. In Bloom: Flowers, flowers everywhere is a great theme for summer wedding. Pick a refined, yet happy flower, like the cherry blossom, to pull of this theme in a more casual way. Or if you’re going the fancy route, douse your reception with orchids or calla lilies and breath in the fragrances.
  6. Color Coded: Pick a color and stick with it. Monotone weddings are all the rage these days, especially if you choose in colors like off-white, lavender, and green. Once you choose your color, accent your décor by going a shade lighter or darker in different areas. This will create a layered look and make your space look bigger.
  7. Down Home: For those brides who are most down-to-earth, you might be comfortable having a down home country wedding in the comfort of your own backyard. Decorate with gingham table clothes and napkins, lay out your spread on a picnic table, and ask your guests to dress casual. Or look into hosting your ceremony and reception at a local ranch or winery in the country.
  8. Citrus Grove: The trendy colors for 2008 are yellows, oranges, and greens, so take one, two or all of them and combine them together for a citrus-themed wedding. Dress your bridesmaids in yellows, serve cocktails made with orange juice, and use the theme of a citrus tree for your centerpieces. There are so many ways to have fun with these vibrant and crisp colors.
  9. Floral Lanterns: Flowers are big during summer weddings, but if you don’t want to go overboard on the real thing, incorporate them into your look through different fabrics. Tie a floral-print sash around your chairs, use printed table cloths, and hang flowery tea lamps around your reception area. Accent the heavy prints with delicate-looking flowers, like baby’s breath and iris.
  10. Trendy Lounge: Find a great outdoor space for your reception and decorate it with large cushions and brightly-colored throw pillows. Hang some paper lanterns or tea lights around the area and soak in the chill vibe. This trend can be enhanced with some ambient music.

Staying Cool in Hot Weather

Keeping your guests cool is a must if you want your wedding to be pleasant and if you want to avoid having someone pass out from heat exhaustion during your vows. There are many ways you can work around your surroundings to provide comfort to your adoring guests. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  1. Air Conditioning: Air conditioning is an obvious way to make sure your guests stay cool. Look at venues that offer air conditioning if you’re planning a long ceremony or raucous reception. If you’re getting married in a particularly hot climate, this is a must. Outdoor venues aren’t appropriate if it’s 100 degrees out.
  2. Cool Tents: If you must have an outdoor wedding, however, consider stationing a few cooling tents around the ceremony and reception area. Erect tents tall enough for people to stand upright and install some portable air conditioners. That way guests can duck in and out to cool down as they need to.
  3. Electric Fans: If air conditioning is not an option – and even if it is – you may still want to test the air circulation in your chosen venue. If it’s poor or stifling, get some electric fans to keep things ventilated. Look into quieter more energy efficient models to use during the ceremony.
  4. Paper Fans: Aside from being a great decoration for your table settings, paper fans are helpful in helping people keep cool. Place one on each chair at your ceremony and reception so that guests have them handy when they need a little breeze.
  5. Positioning: Think strongly about where you’re positioning your tables and chairs before setting up. What time is your ceremony? Where will the sun be then? Can you seat your guests under a tree so they can enjoy some shade? Figuring out how nature will spread itself across your venue beforehand will give you some handy ideas on where and how to conduct your wedding.
  6. Morning and Night: If temperatures in your area get frighteningly high during the daytime, why not consider holding your wedding early in the morning or late at night? While a little unconventional, a morning or night wedding will create a memorable experience for everyone while providing some natural relief. Serve brunch and mimosas for a morning wedding; get creative with some spotlights at night and create a whole new feel.
  7. Popsicles: Have items on hand that will help cool off your guests, like popsicles. Ask your caterer if he or she can make their own or just go to the store for some tried and true frozen treats. You can have your servers hand them out before and after the ceremony and as they’re walking into the reception, and keep a supply handy behind the bar.
  8. Parasoles:Invest in some bright and colorful parasols that your guests can use at their leisure during your ceremony and reception. If you’re feeling generous, you might consider allowing them to take them home as a favor; if not, see if there’s a local business that might rent you a supply for the day.
  9. Canopies: If trees and indoor spaces aren’t at your immediate disposal, create your own artificial shields with some well-placed canopies. You can find huge reception tents or smaller coverings through a variety of dealers across the country.
  10. Koozies: What? Koozies are tacky, you say? No way! Think about keeping your guests’ drinks sweat free and look into ordering some personalized drink koozies for your big day. It’s a cute and original wedding favor that everyone will notice and use for years to come!

Drinks

One sure fire way to keep yourself and your guests calm, cool, and collected at your wedding is through some fun, festive and refreshing summer drinks. The common thread among all of these options is that they’re cold, cold, cold! Think frozen margaritas, slushy punches, and lots of ice. Here are some great cocktails to stock behind your reception bar and the good news is that many of them can be made without alcohol!

  1. Viognier: No wedding would be complete without wine, and during the summer you’re going to want to look to white wines since they can be served cold. Look for a light, crisp wine like a viognier, a rare variety that is both sweet and complex. Make sure your bartender is serving small pours so the wine stays cold throughout. If you’re unfamiliar with viogniers, try the one made by Becker Vineyards – it’s delicious and affordable.
  2. Cider: A beer drink that both men and women can enjoy alike, ciders are so very refreshing on a hot, summer day, they’re light so they won’t weigh your guests down, and many are gluten free – a plus if some of your guests suffer from celiac disease. Spice up your cider offerings and consider a mixed drink, like the Devon Gin, a mixture of cider, gin, and triple sec.
  3. Cucumber Martini: It may sound strange, but cucumber martinis are delicious and very refreshing in hot conditions. Sometimes super-sweet drinks have a tendency to taste heavy in the heat. Subtle drinks like this one made with cucumber, vodka and lime juice, will cool off your guests and allow them to walk away with a new idea for their own party.
  4. Avocado Margarita: It may sound strange, much like the above drink, but avocado margaritas are a must-try. Cool and smooth they go down easy and leave you feeling less full than regular margaritas. It’s a nice consideration for guests trying not to carbo load and another unique item that will make your reception stand out.
  5. Electric Lemonade: This is a festive-looking drink that is a terrific alternative to lemonade. Made with lemons, Sprite, and blue Curacao, your guests will be feeling the cool breezes in no time. For a non-alcoholic option, serve regular lemonade with a citrus garnish.
  6. Slush Punch: Nothing tastes better than a slightly-frozen slush punch when it’s hot outside. Consider this yummy recipe made with strawberry and lemonade flavors. Take a party-pleasing approach — make two batches and spike one with vodka.
  7. Aguas Frescas: Aguas Frescas is a Mexican drink made from fruit, sugar and water. Traditionally non-alcoholic, these juices are light, refreshing, and can be made in a variety of flavors. Plus, they’re typically contained in large, clear jars – a colorful and interesting design element for your wedding! Serve the juice in frozen mugs or glasses to increase its coldness.
  8. Champagne Cocktails: Champagne is a wedding staple, for sure. But why not have fun with it? Add some peach puree and make some Bellinis, add some chilled orange juice for a mimosa, or throw some champagne together with vodka and pineapple juice for a delicious Flirtini!
  9. Frozen Mojito: Though traditionally served over ice, mojitos are refreshing, minty drinks that can be served frozen as well. Combine lime sherbet with rum, mint leaves, and ice and press blend.
  10. Hibiscus Iced Tea: Iced tea is a staple summer drink, but try serving your guests a different version of the old-faithful. Hibiscus tea is made from dried flower petals and tastes cool, clean and refreshing. There’s also no caffeine in hibiscus tea, so it’s even more hydrating. Garnish the drink with colorful flowers.

Food

Everyone loves a wedding for the romance and the free food! Your menu, whether you’re going sit-down or buffet style, is one of your most important considerations when planning your wedding. What you serve will say a lot about your tastes, but also consider the tastes of your guests. Summer weddings are all about light fare. Here are some tasty options for your menu.

  1. Spinach and Strawberry salad: Adding fruit to traditional salads is a great idea for a summer meal. Strawberries are one such fruit that go very well with leaves, nuts, and seasonal cheeses. Check out a variety of recipes for the one that sounds most delicious to you.
  2. Cold Tortellini Salad: Cold pasta salads are also wildly popular when it’s warm out – just think about every barbeque you’ve attended! For your wedding, you can make this offering a little classier by using cheese-filled tortellinis and elegant looking vegetables like thinly sliced zucchini, green beans, and yellow peppers.
  3. Gazpacho: Gazpacho, a traditional Spanish soup that is served chilled, is an excellent idea for a summer wedding. It’s light, cold, and packed with nutrients from the tomatoes, onions, and veggies used. A wonderful option for an appetizer or first course.
  4. Tomato and Mozzarella: Tomatoes, basil and mozzarella go together fabulously. You can serve the combination on its own as a salad, drizzled with some balsamic vinaigrette or throw the ingredients together on a baguette for a tasty, light finger food.
  5. Salmon with Sweet Corn and Avocado: It’s a smart idea to serve a couple of choices for a main course, one type of meat and one type of fish. Grilled salmon accompanied by a sweet corn, tomato and avocado relish is a great fish option for summer months – filling and light all at once.
  6. Crab Cakes and Aioli: Crab cakes are a favorite served either as an appetizer or a main course. A standard crowd-pleaser, consult with your caterer on different ways to serve the dish – with a garlic aioli or other kind of complimentary dipping sauce.
  7. Spinach and Feta Phyllos: Another yummy and light finger food is a phyllo dough purse stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, and onion. A delicious appetizer or side that can be eaten easily.
  8. Roasted Dijon Chicken: Chicken is another great light summer meat. Spice yours up by roasting it in lemon and Dijon flavors. Add some garlic and paprika to give it a little pizzazz, or talk with your chef about their own chicken recipes.
  9. Steak: The key to serving steak in the summer is to do it in manageable portions. Go with a skirt steak and offer a horseradish garnish on the side. Light and flavorful, your guests will love the minimalist approach.
  10. Lobster: If you’ve got the dough, lobster is a luxury that should definitely be reserved for the special occasion of a wedding. Look into a crab-stuffed lobster recipe or serve it with a pea sauce and vegetable risotto.

Cakes

Like the food you serve for dinner, you also need to think about what kind of cake you want. Don’t go overboard with icings or heavy creams in the summer and probably steer clear of heavy chocolate cakes. Check out this list for some ideas on summery cake tastes and styles.

  1. Fresh Orange Wedding Cake: A simple, light cake graced with fruity flavors. Though this cake does use buttercream frosting, the apricot mousse filling will undercut its heaviness.
  2. Three Tiered Calla Lily: This three-tiered white cake with calla lily and lemon accents is a perfect summer look. Ask your baker to go for a simple white cake underneath with a light filling.
  3. Berry Cake: Garnish your cake with a lightly colored frosting and an overflowing of seasonal summer berries. The berries are both decorative and healthy and will give your cake a light tartness it needs in the summer months.
  4. Cupcake Wedding Cake: Build your cake out of lots of mini-cupcakes! Cupcake wedding cakes are cute and stylish and very easy on your guests. The best part is that your cake is already divided up into small, manageable portions. Consider making an assortment of different cupcake flavors to suit everyone’s tastebuds.
  5. Mini Cakes: Another alternative similar to the cupcake cake is the mini-cake – small, pre-made cakes for each individual guest. This example shows the mini cakes made to look like presents – very fun and festive!
  6. Striped Cake: This funky cake is colorful and bold and is a great cake for a summer wedding. The striping done with the frosting is very unique and you can pick whatever colors you wish to match your theme. A bright idea for a bright season, this cake is also perfect for the more casual bride.
  7. Apricot Cake: Summer is all about light fruits, and it’s a thought you should try to incorporate into whatever kind of cake you pick. Apricot is a quintessential summer fruit with a strong flavor and a festive color.
  8. Cherry Blossom Cake: Cherries are another great summery fruit. Think about a tiered cake with sugar covered cherries resting on each layer or check out this floral cake decorated to resemble a cherry blossom tree. Truly beautiful and great for summer or spring.
  9. Polka Dot Cake: A cute, stylish cake perfect for hipper brides. The polka dot icing is playful and fitting with the season, as are the colors used in this particular example. The upward swooping of the dots conjures images of champagne as well!
  10. Orchid Cake: This simple white cake is adorned with light blue orchids, a rare and special flower. A very light, feminine, and classy cake design.

Top 15 Wedding Dresses to Wear this Spring

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Spring brings with it glorious weather, sunshine, flowers, and an air of renewal. And if you’re a spring bride, you should carry these themes through in the dress you choose. Several trends that are hot for spring wedding dresses this year, include light cotton, organza, and chiffon materials, eyelet patterns, floral accents and lace. Being a spring bride, you also get a little freedom to play with length. Spring is a playful time, a time for us all to celebrate our release from winter hibernation and go forth into the great outdoors. Go short or mid-length if you dare, pick a babydoll style or go long with a natural and casual material. Here are some of the top picks for spring wedding dresses this season.

 

  1. Floral and Strapless: While the material on this dress is a little more formal, the light, pastel floral accents and sparkly beaded detail on the skirt make this dress a perfect pick for spring, allowing a bride to play on the theme of the season without losing the formality and princess-like quality many brides seek in a dress. Outside of wedding fashion, colors and bold prints are hot this spring on the runways and in the department stores. While this dress doesn’t quite fit that mold, it does add a splash of color and some bold accents. The back of the dress, with its light, wavy fabric accents, pastel bow, and ruffled skirt gather even further enforce this dress’s qualifications for a spring bride. This dress is unique and any lady who chooses to wear it on her big day will undoubtedly be the center of attention. The floral dress really makes you look like the pedals of a flower and is definitely an eye catcher. With this dress you can be both elegant
    and playful at the same time and it will
    certainly be one that people will talk about.
  2. Maggie London Eyelet Halter: Eyelet fabric is all the rage for the casual girl this spring, and if you’re looking for a casual, light wedding dress, look no further than this number from Maggie London. The halter cut and empire waist makes it flattering for almost all body types, and the not-quite-floor length allows a long, leg-concealing dress to appear fun and flirty. The fabric is extremely breathable and the style embodies the spirit of a social butterfly – this dress is great for any girl, whether you’re preppy, sporty, fashion-forward, extremely simple, or artsy. Perfect also for those of you planning an outdoor wedding.
  3. Platinum for Priscilla: If you’re going to go short, by all means check out this amazing new dress from the Platinum for Priscilla Spring 2008 collection. It’s cute, flirty and sophisticated all at the same time, and it completely evokes the character of Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City.” The organza dress features well-executed bands that add texture and depth to the dress; the satin belt accents the waist nicely and adds a floral element that screams, “Spring!” The bouncy skirt is spunky and chic. This dress is the perfect short, spring dress that could certainly accommodate many different personality types. Alright alright so platinum isn’t exactly the color you were thinking of for your wedding. This dress might not come in the wedding white that you would see normally on a bride on her big day. But this isn’t just any normal day. This is your day and with the Platinum for Priscilla dress you will definately be the the center of attention and it will be a dress that goes remembered for a long time. Do you like to take a step on the wild side and have some fun? If you do then try this dress on for size it will not disappoint.
  4. Henry Roth Chiffon Halter: The light, flowing chiffon material used for this dress is easy, understated, yet so very elegant. The dress hangs simply, gathering in a pool of airy ripples at the bottom. The Swarovski crystals used to accent below the bust bring a bright and fun element to an otherwise simple, yet beautiful dress. This style is perfect for spring because of its light, flowing nature. There are almost no complications to its design, meaning architects all over the world will appreciate its form, function and innate beauty. A bride in this dress would be comfortable walking down a church aisle or skipping across a field of flowers to reach her intended. Definitely a must-see for a no-nonsense bride.
  5. Lela Rose Two Tiered: A fun and stylish dress, this one really has it all for spring. First off, the two-tiered design lends an air of playfulness and is a nice diversion from the traditional ball gown or A-line cut. Second, the chiffon material used drapes very nicely and it’s frothy and spring-like in its weight and measure. Third, the floral accent used on the bodice is nicely done. It’s big, bold and simple, and it’s a terrific alternative to minute, beaded floral accents. And who can really argue with the sheer beauty of the delicate, wide straps and detailed pleating on the bodice? This dress is a trend setter for the season and really one of a kind.
  6. Vera Wang Swagged Ball Gown: The runways this spring all have one thing in common – color and bold patterns. So, if you’re the adventurous type, consider ditching the white and going for something a little stronger. Just take this gorgeous, draped, iridescent golden ball gown from wedding-dress master Vera Wang. It’s a full and classic shape with a shimmering fabric that sparkles and commands attention. The pinkish hue of the material also makes it a perfect tone for spring. But the crowning jewel of this gown is the attention-commanding, deep burgundy rose accent that curves around the waist, making a big splash. This gown is sophisticated and avant-garde and is a great option for the bride who turns her nose at all things pastel and pink.
  7. Mori Lee Chantilly Lace: Stylish and dainty, this strapless, floor-length gown by designer Mori Lee is a great option for this year’s spring bride for many reasons. First of all, the A-line cut is simple and flattering to most body types. Second, the intricate lace overlay gives the dress a light, airy feeling, while maintaining a strong sense of femininity. Lace is definitely in this season, as are empire waists. And the subtle crystal Swarovski beads you’ll find on this wide empire waist band add a sense of elegance, formality and sheen. For brides so inclined, this dress comes with the option of ordering an accompanying shawl, which is available in three lengths. And don’t neglect the gentle scalloping that ruffles out around the train. And beautiful detail for the bride that appreciates beauty!
  8. Jim Hjelm Short & Satin: Another terrific option for brides interested in short dresses, this sassy number from Jim Hjlem’s Spring 2008 collection has many of the simplest elements that are defining spring style. First of all, the shimmering satin fabric is fresh and comfortable and the above-knee length is fun and flirty. The feature that really makes this dress one with the times is the careful and waist-enhancing diagonal pleating that starts midway down the bodice, narrows to a point underneath the crystal-beaded sash and then spreads back out through the voluminous and lively skirt. The blush tint of the satin further qualifies this dress for a spring wedding by lending a warmness and lightheartedness to the look. Again, this is another dress that is a great option for both the cosmopolitan and the spunky bride.
  9. Judd Wadell Cap Sleeve: Most spring dresses this season are strapless or feature dainty, lacey straps. That’s why this dress is a great addition to what’s available in the spring collections. The cap sleeves are very flattering to the arms and add a level of class and sophistication lacking in some of the shorter skirt or strappy varietals. This style will suit brides looking for something more classic, yet still modern. Made of Peau de Soie, a drapeable, matte fabric that has satin woven into the fibers, the dress’s medium weight and dull finish makes it flattering to most figures since it hides imperfections instead of highlighting them like some shinier materials. The empire waist is doubly flattering to most body types. A simple dress without being too plain, the bodice features a shimmering satin that extends just below the bust and is intricately woven. The floor-length dress also has a chapel-length train. A gorgeous dress for the romantic bride.
  10. Monique Lhuillier Floral Strapless: Floral accents are in, in, in this season and no one does them better than Monique Lhuillier, who is known for her elegant and romantic dress designs. This beige dress is one of the best pieces out of Lhuillier’s 2008 collection, which was dubbed “The Enchanted Forest” in her runway show. Lhuillier steered clear of polished fabrics this season and is using lots of the other hot trends, like chiffon, organza and tulle. This loud and experimental dress is definitely made for the adventurous bride. But for those of you wanting to take an artsy risk, you’ll find no better tailor than Lhuillier. The four-tiered skirt is encrusted with beautiful light blue floral accents, mimicking leaves falling to the earth and conjuring images of, literally, an enchanted forest. The beige color is soft and would especially favor brides with warmer skin tones, and the top of the dress is constructed beautifully, with the organza material and blue floral accents tying up gently across a shoulder. If this dress isn’t for you, check out some of Lhuillier’s other pieces from her collection – one is sure to suit your style.
  11. Kirstie Kelly Couture: If you want to keep some semblance of a traditional wedding gown yet still incorporate some in-style elements, this gown from Kirstie Kelly Couture might just be the one for you. It shows its spring 2008 status through the lace V-neckline and the pinkish hue of the eggshell-finish fabric. The cream satin sash is also a telltale sign of its vintage – so many designers are incorporating this look into a variety of gown styles. But the ball gown classification will allow the fairy tale bride to stay in sync with the dreams of her girlhood while also wow her guests with the sleek style of modern times and the girly accents that are so in style this spring season. This dress is definately a very beautifully elegant dress. It is cute and fun and really anything that you need it to be. This dress will not disappoint the bride that chooses it.
  12. Christos Lace: Bring on more lace! Lace is so very beautiful and so very in this spring season. And this wonderful Alencon lace covered gown from Christos uses the material just right. The tiered organza gown is covered in a beautiful light lace that extends from just below the bodice to the floor. The subtle way it’s incorporated into the gown set this lace number apart from other dresses that are constructed to make it the obvious focal point rather than a demure and discreet detail. A truly romantic dress that would flatter many body types.
  13. Reem Acra Sheath: Fans of the Star Wars remake movies will love this gauzy new dress from Reem Acra that incorporates all the elements of hot spring style into a unique, avant-garde look that calls forth the image of a much-chicer Queen Amidala. Over the top of a simple, strapless, floor-length sheath drapes a gauzy, see-through material that wraps all the way around the bride. Worked into the shoulder and left forearm are floral accents that add softness and beauty to the look. And gauzy banding wrapped around the arms further adds texture and style. This dress is perfect for the artsy and adventurous bride – it’s modern while still maintaining a graceful quality.
  14. Romona Keveza: Another short and spunky number, this great dress by Romona Keveza is really a quintessential look for the spring bride looking for a fun and romantic mini-dress. Made from a moveable light-pink fabric, the strapless dress accents the chest and shoulder areas nicely, coming up around the bust in a heart-shape. The bubble hem moves well with the bride, and the folds and draping in the bodice are expertly done. Another major spring element is the large rose accent to the left of the midriff, from which a wide bow hangs. Another fun and flirty dress for a fun and flirty season, complete with breathable fabrics, pastel hues and floral elements.
  15. Reem Acra Fitted: Enough with all this bounce and sway, you say? If you’re looking for something a little more form-fitting, check out this gorgeous floor-length dress from Reem Acra. The body of the gown hangs fairly tight to the frame, and the subtle tiers give a soft texture. The silk satin-faced chiffon is ideal for a spring bride and the ivory color – just slightly off white – is very flattering to most skin tones. But let’s not forget the other spring-perfect details expertly worked into this gown. The V-neck bodice features some very tastefully-done bead work and the narrow satin sash at the waist gives the dress much class. The back of the dress flows to the ground in ripples of satin that move beautifully. You really can’t go wrong in any way by choosing this dress.

Top 25 Most Extravegant Celebrity Weddings

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The average cost of a wedding in the US is currently about $30,000, according to CNN. But for a celebrity wedding that amount will hardly cover the dress. Check out these extravagant celebrity weddings that are some of the priciest on record.

  1. Ryan and Trista : One of the only reality-TV romances to ever work out, Trista and Ryan met on the set of The Bachelorette and got engaged soon after the show ended. ABC executives quickly proposed the idea of televising the wedding and agreed to pay for what some are saying was a $4 million ceremony and reception held at Lodge Rancho Mirage in California. The entire place was covered in pink flowers – some say over 30,000 were used to decorate the room! Trista was outfitted in a Badgley Mishcka dress and diamond encrusted shoes from Stuart Weitzman. Food was flown in from 14 countries and guests went through over 180 bottles of champagne, 600 bottles of wine, and 1,500 pounds of chocolate.
  2. Liza Minelli and David Gest: This strange couple was married in a $3.5 million ceremony in 2002. They were introduced to each other by Michael Jackson, a longtime friend of Gest’s, who also served as the best man in the wedding. It was a star-studded affair, with music legends like Gloria Gaynor, Al Green and Dionne Warwick in attendance. Liz Taylor was also part of the wedding party, standing as Minelli’s matron of honor. Gest and Minelli divorced little more than a year later, and Gest sued her for $10 million, claiming she was an abusive alcoholic. A dramatic end to what started out as a fairy tale romance.
  3. Paul McCartney and Heather Mills: Though this couple is now going through a messy divorce, their 2002 wedding was a lavish affair, costing $3 million. Held at Castle Leslie in Ireland, the guest list included Elton John, Bill Clinton, and Eric Clapton. While McCartney tried to keep details of the wedding secret, it is known that guests were treated to an all-vegetarian Indian buffet and a spectacular fireworks display after the ceremony. Unfortunately this didn’t make it the long haul the two recently divorced and the settlement topped the charts as the most expensive divorce in British History. The Beatles were right in saying ,”Can’t buy me love.”
  4. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes : Scientologist Tom Cruise and former Dawson’s Creek star Katie Holmes had quite a public courtship, with Cruise loudly declaring his love for her on Oprah and at several press events. So it’s no surprise that their wedding ceremony was a major event. Traveling to Italy, the couple tied the knot at the Odescalchi Castle in Lake Bracciano. The affair cost $2 million. Both Cruise and Holmes wore Armani and exchanged white gold and diamond Cartier wedding bands. In attendance were some of the couple’s closest Hollywood friends, such as David and Victoria Beckham, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett, and Brooke Shields. These two are still happily married with one child together and rumors buzzing that there could be a second on the way.
  5. Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman: This pop star married music executive Bratman in a 2005 ceremony at the Staglin Family Vineyard in Napa Valley. Though the guest list was relatively small – with only 130 guests – the couple still managed to spend $2 million on their nuptials. Aguilera wore a Christian LaCroix gown and the couple exchanged wedding bands designed by Steven Webster of London. This couple met when Jordan was working for Christina’s management company Azoff Music Management. Christina’s manager Irving Azoff introduced the couple. They had a son on January 12, 2008 his name is Max. The new mama Christina spends the majority of her time now raising her baby boy Max and says her career will be on hold for awhile.
  6. Liz Taylor and Larry Fortensky: Not surprisingly, Taylor’s seventh marriage to construction worker Larry Fortensky – a man 20 years younger than her – didn’t work out. The two met while going through treatment for alcoholism at the Betty Ford Clinic and married in 1991 at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch. The ceremony cost $2 million. It was outdoors and a complete media circus. If it was any indication of the control issues to come, Taylor’s hairdresser served as Fortensky’s best man.
  7. Liz Hurley and Arun Nayar: The $2 million nuptials between Hurley and Indian businessman Nayar was an intercontinental event, with ceremonies in both England and India. The festivities began with a ceremony at a 15th century castle in England and ended after five days of traditional Indian rites in Mumbai and Rajasthan. Guests included Elton John, Kate Moss and Hugh Grant. During the wedding a fight broke out between security gaurds and reporters. It started when the reporters wouldn’t let the couple’s car gain access to the drive to the Indian festivity. Then escalated when reporters worked past the guards and moved into the wedding before being forcibly removed.
  8. Elton John and David Furnish: John and Furnish made formal their 12 year partnership with a civil ceremony in 2005. Their reception costs totaled $1.75 million, as 700 guests were invited to the champagne-fueled party held on the grounds of John’s mansion in Windsor, after the couple’s legal ceremony at Guidhall, the same location where Prince Charles married his soul mate, Camilla Parker Bowles. The couple met when a friend introduced them at a dinner party at Elton’s mansion. Elton said that David was the reason that he was able to overcome his addictions to both drugs and alcohol.
  9. Tiger Woods and Elin Nordegren: Not betraying the game that has brought Woods’ fortune, the golf supernova and his Swedish-model bride married in 2004 at the Sandy Lane Golf Resort in Barbados. Partially due to the fact that the couple rented out the entire hotel and resort, the wedding cost almost $2 million. There were 150 guests, including Oprah Winfrey and Michael Jordan. Elin wore a simple gown and flew in her personal hairstylists from London. At the reception, champagne and caviar were served, and the banquet room was decorated with over 10,000 red and black roses. Music was provided by Hootie and the Blowfish. No surprise that the world’s best golfer would also have the world’s best wedding. This couple is still together today and Tiger is a daddy as the couple has one daughter to share his love of golf with.
  10. Lady Diana and Prince Charles: The royal wedding of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer will go down in history as the most-watched wedding ever. Broadcast on TV, an estimated 750 million viewers tuned in, along with 3,500 invited guests and 600,000 spectators who crowded the side of the roads hoping to glimpse the royal couple. Diana’s Emmanuel gown, with its famous 25-foot-long train that trailed dramatically along the red carpet of St. Paul’s cathedral, was all the buzz and has been dubbed the most signature wedding dress of all time. It’s now shown in museums all over the world. Was this a match made in heaven? Unfortunately not as these two divorced in 1996. Just a year later the dear and loved Diana passed away in a tragic and sometimes controversial car accident.
  11. Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones: Douglas and Zeta-Jones wed in a $1.5 million ceremony at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Douglas, famed for his expensive divorce from first wife Diandra Douglas, is also newsworthy for hosting one of the priciest celebrity weddings on record. Like Brosnan, Douglas negotiated the rights to the wedding story and photos to OK! Magazine, so guests were forced to keep mum prior to the event. Zeta-Jones’ Welsh heritage was displayed proudly in the décor and the menu, as guests were treated to Welsh lamb. Douglas’ son Cameron from his first marriage was the best man, and attendees included stars like Sean Connery, Sharon Stone and Christopher Reeves.
  12. Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith: This former James Bond married his bride Smith in a 2001 ceremony at an Irish castle. It was a highly private and very spendy affair, with Brosnan dropping $1.5 million on the ceremony. Both the bride and groom were whisked to and from the ceremony in Rolls Royces and Hello! Magazine bought the exclusive rights to the wedding photos. The couple’s six-tier wedding cake was said to cost almost $14,000. It comes as no surprise that the then James Bond’s wedding would be a very dramatic and beautiful event. The 120 people in attendance were the only people to set eyes on the wedding couple.
  13. Eddie Murphy and Nicole Mitchell : After five years of courtship, this couple wed in 1993 in a luxurious $1.5 million ceremony at The Plaza Hotel in New York City. There were 500 guests, including Bruce Willis, Quincy Jones and Russell Simmons. The entire grand ballroom was covered in tulips, gardenias, and orchids, all of which were immediately delivered to patients in a Harlem hospital following the wedding. Cristal champagne and lobster were served at the sit down dinner.
  14. Tori Spelling and Charlie Shanian : The short-lived wedding between Spelling, formerly of Beverly Hills 90210 fame, and Shanian, a producer, was not an understated affair, costing over $1 million. The ceremony was held at Spelling’s father’s estate in front of 400 guests. Spelling wore a flapper-style Badgley Mishcka bead-encrusted wedding gown and 2.5 carat diamond earrings. Wolfgang Puck designed the wedding menu, and all guests left with a silver bottle of champagne with the couple’s names engraved in the side. Just 15 months later, however, Shanian and Spelling split for good. Spelling is now married to actor Dean McDermott.
  15. Madonna and Guy Ritchie: Star guests at the New Year’s Eve wedding of Madonna and movie director Guy Ritchie included Gwenyth Paltrow, Sting, and Stella McCartney, who designed Madonna’s vintage-style dress. The ceremony was held at a castle in Scotland, where Ritchie grew up. He wore a traditional Scottish kilt; Madonna accented her dress with a 78-carat diamond tiara. The bill? $1.5 million. Madonna is 10 years Guy’s senior, this happily married couple has had three children together. One daughter and two sons. The daughter being the oldest coming in 1996 and the sons both coming in the new millennium one in 2000 and the other in 2005.
  16. Donald Trump and Melania Knauss: Declaring their love with a lavish $1 million ceremony, Trump and Knauss exchanged vows in front of over 500 guests, including Oprah Winfrey, Clint Eastwood and Elton John. Knauss’ $200,000 John Galliano gown, with its 13-foot train and crystal accents, was the centerpiece of the ceremony – she even modeled it for a Vogue cover shoot before the wedding. The wedding reception for Trump, who is 28 years his bride’s senior, was held at Trump’s luxurious Mal-a-Lago hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. Mr. Trump finally opened his mouth to say words other than “you’re fired” and said “I do” in this lavish and luxurious ceremony of matrimony.
  17. Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston : This understated couple’s $1 million wedding in 2000 was held at the Mailbu estate of TV producer Marcy Carsey. There were 200 guests in attendance, four bands and another celebratory fireworks display. Pitt personally designed their matching white-gold wedding bands; Aniston wore a Lawrence Steele dress and Manolo Blahnik sandals. Guests included the entire cast of Friends, Cameron Diaz, and Melissa Ethridge.
  18. David and Victoria Beckham : Posh Spice married soccer star David Beckham in 1999 in a small ceremony at an Irish castle before 29 guests, all of whom were instructed to wear white and black. Victoria donned a champagne-colored Vera Wang gown and Becks a white suit. Their 4-month-old son Brooklyn lay in a crib beside the altar and acted as the ring bearer. After the ceremony, the couple released white doves into the air and celebrated with a gigantic fireworks display and reception for hundreds of guests. Total costs were said to be around $800,000.
  19. Ashley Judd and Dario Franchitti: Another Scottish wedding, Judd and Scottish race car driver Franchitti were married in the same castle as Madonna and Ritchie. The couple’s $750,000 ceremony was attended by 100 guests, including Salma Hayek and Ed Norton. Judd wore a sleek Armani gown; Franchitti a traditional Scottish kilt. The couple met at a friends wedding reception. The friend told Judd that there would be a cute race car driver in attendance. While Judd is a huge Kentucky Basketball fan and not much of a racing fan she found enough space in her heart for this race car driver.
  20. Eva Longoria and Tony Parker : The Desperate Housewives star and San Antonio Spurs married on the coveted 7/7/07 wedding date in a 17th century castle in France – Parker’s native home. While some of the reports were dismissed, it was said that the wedding cake was going to be made in California and flown in first class for the ceremony, resulting in a possible price tag of $40,000. But their wedding was the highlight of the summer – who didn’t see the paparazzi pics of Longoria arriving at Paris City Hall in her pink Chanel jumper? This couple is still very happily married as they both continue on in their own career paths.
  21. Mariah Carey and Tommy Mottola: It’s said that Carey modeled her 1993 wedding to music producer Tommy Mottola after Princess Diana’s marriage to Prince Charles. In the $500,000 ceremony, Carey wore a $25,000 Vera Wang gown designed after Princess Di’s with a 27-foot-long train. She also wore a custom-made tiara designed to look like one of Princess Diana’s. Fifty flower girls were present at the ceremony, and Carey and Mottola ordered a six-tier cake for the guests. This marriage was not a long one however as the couple separated in 1997. They parted ways and Mariah Carey’s career continued to blossom in the years to come.
  22. Marc Antony and Dayanara Torres : Though he is now married to Jennifer Lopez, Anthony’s 2002 marriage to Miss Universe Dayanara Torres was one for the history books. The $500,000 ceremony was held in San Juan, Puerto Rico in a 500-year-old cathedral. Over 200 guests gathered to watch Torres and Anthony renew their vows (they were originally married in a quick ceremony in Las Vegas in 2000.) At the lavish affair, Torres wore a $30,000 Reem Acra Bucheese gown and the couple exchanged rings worth $20,000.
  23. Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban: The Oscar-winning actress and country music star wed in their hometown of Sydney, Australia in a ceremony that cost more than $250,000. Kidman wore a floor-length Balenciaga gown, and arrived at the cliff-top church in a limo with her father. There were 250 invitees in attendance, including fellow-Aussies like Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, and Naomi Watts. Throngs of fans lined the streets as guests were arriving at the ceremony, and while many details were kept private and out of the photographer’s reach, Kidman and Urban did leave a case of Victoria Bitter beer for the paparazzi. This couple has two children that Kidman adopted with Tom Cruise and they have not had any of their own.
  24. Barbara Streisand and James Brolin: This couple wed in a traditional Jewish ceremony in the living room of her Malibu mansion. And while they didn’t drop a lot of money on the location or entertainment (Streisand sang at the reception), the flower bill alone must have been staggering. Streisand had florists transform her home into an indoor garden of sorts using tens of thousands of flowers. Streisand wore a crystal-encrusted Donna Karan wedding gown and diamond choker; guests were treated to soft-shell crab and porcine ravioli. When the couple met on a blind date James had just cut off all of his hair and the first thing Barbara said to him was “Geeze what happened to your hair!” From that moment on they were happily married as James said he enjoyed how truthful Barbara was.
  25. Celine Dion and Rene Angelil : The French-Canadian singer married her longtime manager in Montreal on December 17, 1994. She wore an extravagant pearl-encrusted gown that took 1,000 hours to make and a seven pound crystal tiara. The reception at the Hotel Westin Mont-Royal featured artificial snowflakes falling on the 530 guests dancing to a 21-piece orchestra. This couple seems to be a true example of how to make a marriage work as they hit their toughest point when Rene was diagnosed with cancer. Celine has stayed by his side and continues to love him through the entire thing. Good luck you two.

Wedding Weight Loss: 101 Resources to Help you Get in Shape for Your Wedding

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Your big day is rapidly approaching and you have a limited amount of time to get yourself in shape for that form-fitting dress you love. The last thing you want is to look at your wedding photos and cringe at your figure a few years down the line, so you’ll need to step up your health and fitness routine ASAP. While getting fit for your wedding can be stressful, seeing as though you’re under the gun to meet a deadline, it can also be easy in the sense that this is one time that you’ll feel consistently motivated to make the necessary adjustments to your routine. Use this list of tips and resources to help you lose weight healthfully and fast.

Weight Loss Plans

You may not have time to audition for “The Biggest Loser,” but you do have time to get on a successful diet. Try one of the counseling services below or go it your own with a custom weight loss plan to keep you focused on eating the right foods and dropping inches. Many of these plans have online reporting components to help you stay on track.

  1. Weight Watchers: One of the most well-known weight loss systems, Weight Watchers says it’s successful because it’s not a diet. This is a program run on formulating healthy, balanced meals and keeping daily caloric intake within a certain range – no matter what foods you’re eating.
  2. Jenny Craig: Kirstie Alley, Valerie Bertinelli and Queen Latifah are the celebrity spokespeople for this weight loss system that offers custom-made meals and one-on-one counseling.
  3. NutriSystem: Like Jenny Craig, this system provides the dieter with ready-made foods. NutriSystem’s plan is to keep its clients’ blood sugar low by offering foods without complex carbohydrates.
  4. L.A. Weight Loss: This plan also offers one-on-one counseling and custom, personalized menus. Like Weight Watchers, L.A. Weight Loss refutes the diet label, dubbing itself a lifestyle-plan.
  5. Atkins: Though controversial for its complete ban on carbohydrates, many people praise the Atkins Diet’s high-protein system for helping to drop pounds fast. Consult your doctor before considering this plan.
  6. South Beach Diet: A doctor-designed diet, South Beach takes dieters through three stages to first eliminate sugar cravings, then speed up weight loss, and finally to make sustainable lifestyle changes.
  7. The Zone Diet: Jennifer Anniston swears by this diet that prescribes that each meal should contain 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent protein, and 30 percent fat.
  8. The Best Life Diet: Developed by Oprah’s nutritionist and friend Bob Greene, this plan is all about choosing the right foods and portion control.
  9. Mediterranean Diet: Endorsed by the Mayo Clinic, this diet was developed by examining the eating behaviors of people hailing from the Mediterranean region. It, to the delight of many, prescribes heart-healthy foods like olives and red wine.
  10. Slim Fast: You can buy Slim Fast shakes at your local grocery and drug stores, and the plan is easy – drink one shake each for breakfast and lunch and then eat a sensible dinner.
  11. Perricone Diet: A two-for-one plan, Dr. Nicholas Perricone claims his plan will both stimulate weight loss and reverse the signs of aging because it avoids foods that cause inflammation.
  12. Deliciously Yours: This home-delivered meal plan allows you to view sample menus and pick the foods you like best.
  13. Eating for Life: Nutrition guru Bill Phillips has sold millions of books about his Eating for Life plan that focuses on a healthy, sustainable combination of nutrition and exercise.
  14. Fall’s Best Diet Plan: Perfect for those who are handy in the kitchen, this plan focuses on reducing blood sugar levels by eating fresh produce and lean protein.
  15. Glycemic Index Diet: Almost identical to the South Beach Diet, this plan works well for people with strong sugar and sweets cravings by conditioning the body not to want junk food.
  16. Medifast: Medifast swears by the small meal plan touted by many celebrities who have to slim down for movie roles. The 5-and-1 plan is six small meals a day – five of which are provided by Medifast and one healthy meal you make on your own.
  17. Biggest Loser Club: OK, I said you don’t have time to audition for the biggest loser, but you do have time to follow diet and fitness program used on the show online through this site.
  18. Sonoma Diet: Calling itself the “most flavorful weight loss plan under the sun,” the Sonoma Diet is a beefed-up version of the Mediterranean Diet, with an influx of Californian foods.
  19. Diet to Go: An easy plan to follow – just pick up your pre-made meals and eat.
  20. Duke Diet: Developed at Duke University, this plan has been around since the 1960s helping people lose weight with personalized diets, fitness routines, and medical advice.
  21. Jillian Michaels: Do you want buff arms? Check out this plan from Jillian Michaels, the trainer on “The Biggest Loser” who has coached many people into dropping hundreds of pounds.
  22. Flat Belly Diet: Maybe you feel pretty good about your body, but just want to lose some flub around the middle? Try this diet that focuses on eating mono-saturated fats found in foods like avocados, almonds and chocolate.
  23. Denise Austin: This peppy aerobics queen will cheer you right into that pair of size 4 jeans with her “Eat Right!” diet philosophy, complete with meal plans and daily tips.
  24. Dr. Oz: It seems Oprah has the market cornered on diet-guru friends. Dr. Memhet Oz, author of the bestselling book “You on a Diet”, is frequently on her show speaking about the physiological reasons we gain weight and how we can change the way our bodies react through dietary choices.
  25. 5 Factor Diet: Trainer Harley Pasternak designed this diet for the sole purpose of helping Hollywood celebrities lose weight fast. His plan consists of small meals and brief, frequent workouts. He’s helped beauties like Alicia Keyes and Eva Mendes get in shape for the red carpet.
  26. Ultimate Tea Diet: Authors of this book claim tea will help you lose weight by decreasing your appetite and boosting metabolism. Drink your favorite tea all day, combined with a healthy diet, and watch the pounds melt off.

Exercise

Unless you’ve been living under a rock all your life or are blessed with an over-zealous metabolism, you know you can’t lose weight without exercising. Sorry all you couch potatoes, but you’re going to have to get up. Here are some basic and unique forms of exercise that will help you blast off calories.

  1. Walking: Stand up, put one foot in front of the other, repeat. Walking is a great form of exercise that you can easily fit into free gaps during your day.
  2. Running: Like walking, but faster, running is one of the best ways to burn calories quickly and tone your whole body. Beginners should ease themselves into it by checking out tips through resources like the Runner’s World website.
  3. Hiking: Get outside and smell the clean air! Hiking is an excellent form of exercise that also boosts your mental spirits. The trick is in the incline – find a local hill or mountain and climb it!
  4. Biking: Put your car in the garage and lock the key. Biking as a form of transportation is an environmentally-friendly and healthy way to get around town. If your commute won’t allow it, try squeezing in a spin around the neighborhood a few times a week.
  5. Tennis: We’re not talking about batting the ball around here, but a vigorous tennis game with a friend is a social and fun interval workout. One hour of an energetic tennis match can burn between 480 and 670 calories, depending on your weight.
  6. Swimming: Swimming is often claimed to be one of the best calorie burners, since a person engages most of their body’s muscles while swimming. It’s also easy on the joints.
  7. Aerobics: Break out your legwarmers and get yourself to a class. Aerobics, while very Jane Fonda-esque, are a fun way to boost your heart rate. If you can’t make it to a fitness center, get one of the many hundreds of aerobic DVDs on the market.
  8. Kickboxing: If aerobics are to foo-foo for your refined sensibilities, then try kickboxing. A blending of martial arts and calisthenics, kickboxing is a high-energy workout that will leave you feeling empowered.
  9. Hip Hop Dancing: Release your inner J. Lo! Hip hop dancing is a great way to improve your coordination and lose weight.
  10. Rock Climbing: Rock climbing burns 700 calories an hour on average, which is more than excuse enough to buy that first pair of crampons.
  11. Bellydancing: No joke, bellydancing is the latest and greatest workout craze. It’s low-impact for sure, but worth a try on days when you’re searching for something with less intensity.
  12. Strip Tease: If you want to look like Carmen Electra, check out her strip tease aerobic video – all you need for your workout is a pillow and a bed! Very risqué.
  13. Power Plate: If you have between $2,500 and $10,000 to spend on an exercise machine, you might get the best bang for your buck with the Power Plate, an exercise machine that works your whole body by making you keep your balance while it gyrates. This method is popular with fitness-obsessed celebrities like Madonna.
  14. Pilates: This ballet-inspired form of exercise lengthens and strengthens muscles, giving you a lean and tone figure.
  15. Power Yoga: Get sweatier than you could imagine with a power vinyasa yoga routine popularized by Baron Baptiste. It’s both physically and mentally challenging.
  16. Gyrotonics: This machine has a similar, if not more pronounced, effect as Pilates, lengthening muscles and increasing flexibility.
  17. Nia: Nia is a member of the yoga and Pilates family, but differs by focusing on continued movement that combines dance, martial arts, and yoga.
  18. Cy-Yo: Yoga meets spinning in this new exercise trend that begins with yoga, moves to a rigorous cycling portion that focuses on holistic breathing techniques, and ends, again, with yoga.
  19. Stroller Strides: If you already have young children, like to babysit, or have a toddler niece or nephew, check out Stroller Strides, workouts you can do while pushing your tot around the cul-de-sac.
  20. Budokon: A combination of yoga and martial arts, Budokon founders claim it’s the ultimate mind-body workout.
  21. Jump Rope: Jumping rope is no longer relegated to school playgrounds. One fast hour of this elementary pastime will burn well over 700 calories.
  22. Weight Lifting: You have to combine strength training with your metabolic routine to get the best results. Try to squeeze in at least three weight sessions each week.
  23. Squash: No longer the sport of middle-aged, Englishmen, squash is an excellent way to burn lots of calories fast. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter.
  24. Basketball: If team sports are your thing, try joining a basketball league. The constant running up and down the court will have you in Scottie Pippen-shape in no time.

Gadgets and Calculators

To make sure you’re burning calories correctly and getting in the mileage you need, try out some of these technologies that will help you keep a leg-up on the numbers game of weight loss.

  1. Calorie Calculator: Use this handy tool to determine how many calories you need to consume each day to reach your maximum weight loss.
  2. Mileage Burn: Try this calculator out to find out how many calories you burned on your run.
  3. Distance Calculator: Type in your pace and the duration of your walk and find out how far you went.
  4. BMI Calculator: BMI is your Body Mass Index and it tells you your percentage of body fat. Use this to determine your goal.
  5. 40-30-30 Calculator: If you’re on The Zone Diet, or a Glycemic Index Diet, use this to find out how many grams of carbohydrates, protein and fat you need each day.
  6. Ideal Weight Calculator: Use this tool to set goals by figuring out your ideal weight.
  7. Activity Calculator: No matter what your exercise, find out how many calories you burned during your workout.
  8. Pedometer: Wearing a pedometer will help you count steps and calculate distance and calorie burn.
  9. Daily Calorie Burn: This calculator tells you how many calories you have to burn each day in order to lose your target amount by your intended date.
  10. Time to Weight Loss: This tool is an essential for brides-to-be – it calculates how long it will take you to reach your target weight. The power in having this knowledge is that you can make adjustments to your program by accelerating it if it looks like you won’t be on track to your goal.
  11. Nutrition Data: This helpful website gives you in depth information about calories and nutrients in all foods and even analyzes recipes.
  12. Diet Facts: Another food analysis site, it even includes nutritional information about menu items at popular restaurants.
  13. Calorie King: Count calories and determine portion sizes on this site.

Journaling and Networking

Keeping a journal of your weight loss activities and connecting with other people who are in the same boat are great ways to keep yourself motivated and on schedule. It’s also helpful to see in advance any adjustments you have to make after you cheat.

  1. Self: Self.com is a great website to use if you’re really trying to push yourself. Sign up for one of their fitness challenges and keep yourself in line.
  2. Fit Day: Downloadable software that lets you track every aspect of your weight loss journey.
  3. NutriDiary: An online diary that even makes charts of your progress.
  4. Peer Trainer: Their motto is “Buddy up. Slim down.” Find like-minded dieters to give you inspiration.
  5. Spark People: Spark People gives you free diet plans and counseling from experts.
  6. My Fitness Pal: Count calories and blog on this site.
  7. The Daily Plate: This site has it all – diet and meal suggestions, chat forums, and exercise recommendations.
  8. My Food Diary: My Food Diary is an online community for people interested in healthy living and has been endorsed by the Wall Street Journal and Martha Stewart’s Blueprint magazine.
  9. Diet Diaries: Keep your own personal online diary, read the diaries of other dieters, and share your entries and inspirations on this simple site.
  10. Weight Loss Buddy: In the same spirit as PeerTrainer.com, WeightLossBuddy.com is a website that helps you find motivational partners in your quest for fitness.

Behavioral Changes

To truly be successful in losing your goal amount before your wedding day, you are likely going to have to engage in some pretty serious behavioral changes. Here are some general habits you should look at adopting.

  1. Get 8 hours of sleep: Doctors have found that sleep helps maintain a healthy metabolism. When you’re not getting enough sleep, you produce toxic chemicals that make it more difficult for you shed pounds.
  2. Drink Milk: Studies indicate that calcium aids in the body’s fat-burning process. The more calcium you get, the more fat you’ll burn.
  3. Read Labels: Know what you’re putting in your body and start making it a habit that you read the labels of every food you buy. Make sure you make calculations on serving size – the information on labels can be misleading if taken out of context.
  4. Caffeine: There are conflicting debates over the benefit of caffeine on weight loss, but one thing’s for sure – caffeine can boost your metabolism and suppress your appetite, while over-consumption can lead to energy crashes. And cut out the high-fat coffee drinks – stick to plain coffee or non-fat lattes.
  5. Drink Water: You’ve heard it a million times, and for good reason. Water helps you lose weight by regulating body temperature and flushing out toxins. Drink up!
  6. Ditch Diet Soda: No diet soda?!?! But it has no calories, which is good, right? Actually, no. Scientists have linked the chemicals in diet soda with Metabolic Syndrome, which causes weight gain. Turns out there’s nothing diet about these drinks.
  7. Set Reasonable Goals: Having goals is extremely important to the weight loss process, but make sure that you think things through beforehand. Know what’s possible and what isn’t – don’t set yourself up for failure with outrageous expectations.
  8. Vitamins: Make sure you’re getting proper nutrition with vitamin supplements. This will keep your body functioning at tip-top shape. The most important vitamins for weight loss are B vitamins, which help your body’s energy level.
  9. Eat Out Less: Unfortunately, eating out is not good for the waistline, if you’re doing it frequently. You’ll be able to fix far healthier foods at home, so limit your meals out to once or twice a week. And when you are out, make good choices by sticking to salads and lean proteins, like fish and chicken.
  10. Weigh Yourself Regularly: It doesn’t have to be every day, but you will want to step on the scale at a chosen and consistent time. Once a week is fine to chart your weight loss.
  11. Eat Slow: One of the best tips for weight loss is learning to eat slow. When you eat fast, your body doesn’t have the chance to realize when it’s full. Slow down your intake and eat less.
  12. Eat Early: The jury is out over whether eating before bedtime will make it more difficult for you to lose weight, but why risk it? Make sure you eat dinner at least a couple of hours before you hit the sack so you digest your food at a higher metabolic rate.
  13. Eat Breakfast: It’s common knowledge at this point that people who skip breakfast tend to be more obese. Getting a healthy first meal gets your body’s metabolism going for the day.
  14. Cut out Junk Food: This sounds obvious, but seriously – fast food and junk foods really must go if you want to lose weight. Trans-fats, high-fructose corn syrup, and other chemicals found in these foods are detrimental to your body’s quest to lose weight.
  15. Fiber: Fiber is probably one of the most important things you can eat when trying to lose weight. It helps keep you regular and eliminates toxins and carcinogens.
  16. No Refined Foods: Good-bye white sugar, so long white bread. Get refined foods out of your diet. The human body does not respond well to processed foods, as they are hard to break down. Eating processed foods means you’ll increase your body’s propensity for storing complex carbohydrates, or sugars, which will be converted into fat if not expended. Keep it natural, and you’ll see results.
  17. So Long, Saccharine: Artificial sweeteners are not only bad for you health-wise, they can hinder your weight loss efforts.

Outfit Yourself and Your Home

Working out and staying healthy will be easier if you have the resources you need handy. Get yourself some cute workout clothes and make sure you have certain tools in your home.

  1. Lululemon: Getting into yoga is a great way to tone up and lose weight faster, and now you can look great doing it with these amazing yoga outfits.
  2. Binka: Binka makes working out hip with its trendy tops and pants.
  3. Couture Active Wear: Great, original designs make up this line of workout gear.
  4. Pure Lime: This Scandinavian line of workout clothes is geared more toward yoga enthusiasts, but is definitely versatile.
  5. Margarita Sportswear: A sassy active wear line that is loud and bold.
  6. Workout Videos: Check out this article about the best fitness DVDs for burning calories and sculpting muscles in the comfort of your living room.
  7. Resistance Bands: Invest in some resistance bands for longer, leaner muscles.
  8. Jump Ropes: Jumping rope is a great cardio workout and improves coordination. Definitely a must have for the home.
  9. Exercise Balls: Exercise balls are an essential tool – they’re especially good for strengthening your core muscles.
  10. Yoga Mat: You’ll need one of these for yoga, Pilates, or any floor exercises.
  11. Free Weights: Free weights are great for general strengthening or bring them on your walk or run to increase your calorie burn and muscle mass.
  12. Medicine Balls: Weighted medicine balls can be used in lieu of weights or to increase the intensity of moves like lunges and sit ups.

Now that you’re armed with all of this weight loss knowledge, you have everything you need to get on the path to being a gorgeous, fit bride. Remember, the principles of weight loss are simple – burn more energy than you take in and choose natural, healthy foods. Good luck!

Top Secret Destination Weddings in North America

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Unless you’re planning to have hundreds of guests, there are so many reasons to have a destination wedding. You’ll never have a better excuse to check out a new and beautiful locale, and getting away from your hometown makes the occasion feel even more special. Because destination weddings tend to be smaller, they’re more intimate and you’ll be certain that everyone in attendance is there for you and not the free booze. By picking a destination that is a little less popular, you’ll have a better chance at keeping your budget under control and coordinating services on shorter notice. This is a list of 25 wedding locations that are a little further off the beaten track.

  1. Summit County, Colorado: Summit County sums up all there is to love about Colorado. Home to dozens of ski resorts, mountain villages, and expansive views, couples looking for anything from seclusion, beauty or resort-style amenities will be able to find something to suit their needs within the county’s 608 square miles. Breckenridge, home to one of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts, is the county seat, and one of the most fun resort-party towns in the state. You’ll find no shortage of lodging here, and lots of catering options. But if you’re looking for something a little less touristy, try one of the smaller towns, like Dillon or Keystone, or look into renting a secluded ranch site located off one of the county roads. There are several located up toward the tiny town of Kremmling, north of Silverthorne. Whatever your preference, you’ll end up with a slew of gorgeous photos from a wedding in this priceless region.

  2. Oaxaca, Mexico: You won’t find any beaches here – located in the middle of Mexico is the historical and culturally-rich city of Oaxaca. Complete with ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and to-die-for cuisine, Oaxaca has been named one of the most underrated vacation spots in Northern America. There are plenty of mountain crests to get hitched atop of or look into one of the upscale resorts and spas, like the Hotel Hacienda Los Laureles.

  3. Peak’s Island, Maine Just a short ferry ride from Portland is Peak’s Island, a maritime getaway full of lively, territorial locals and magnificent views. In the summer, the influx of mainlanders drives the island’s lobster industry and in the winter the population flips on its axis to become almost desolate. But for a New England coastal wedding, you won’t find a more picturesque locale. Check out The Inn on Peak’s Island a quaint old Inn with gorgeous accommodations, a great restaurant, and ocean vistas. Lobster, of course, will be a must on your wedding menu.

  4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Depending on where you’re from, a wedding in the Appalachian mountains might not sound like your cup of tea. Put your images of coal mines aside, Gatlinburg, located on the North Carolina border, is one of the most gorgeous spots in the Smoky Mountains. Not to mention, it’s the home of Dolly Parton! Tell me what’s more classy than a Dollywood wedding reception? Hey, if you’re into kitsch, then that might be your ticket. It’s located in Pigeon Forge, just a few miles north of Gatlinburg. If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, check out The Gatlinburg Chapel at the Park. The morning fog and mystery inherent in the Smoky Mountains is a guaranteed perfect backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

  5. Peter Island Resort, BVI: If you want an island wedding and your guests have some dough to spend on airfare and lodging, look no further than the Peter Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands. One of the less talked-about Islands in the Caribbean, Peter Island is not lacking in scenery and beauty. One glance at the resort’s photo gallery and you’ll be on the phone to your travel agent in no time.

  6. Ruidoso, New Mexico: If you’re a skier, outdoor enthusiast, or lover of the old west, then check out Ruidoso, New Mexico, located a four-hour drive southeast of Albuquerque. It’s a mountain oasis in the middle of a desert state and its quaint village center has all the amenities one needs to put together a top-of-the-line wedding. One of the town’s biggest attractions, aside from the Apache Ski Resort, is the Inn of the Mountain Gods, a luxurious casino that offers lodging, reception sites, and gorgeous views.

  7. Big SurBig Sur is hands down one of the most gorgeous places on California’s Pacific Coast Highway, with dramatic cliffs that rival those found along southern Australia’s Great Ocean Drive. While the location is a popular one among tourists, it’s also located smack dab in between California’s most populous cities and isn’t a densely populated region. You’ll have to plan ahead if you want to book a resort, like the Ventana Inn, a gorgeous hotel located on 240 coastal acres of land. But if you’re looking for something a little more low key, just pop out to the beach for your ceremony or check out the Big Sur botanical garden. There’s plenty of options. And your guests will thank you for giving them an excuse to check out this must-see landscape.

  8. Red Fish Lake, Idaho: Dirty Dancing fans, eat your heart out. OK, so that movie takes place in upstate New York, but there is something about the Redfish Lake Lodge that is reminiscent of the holiday camp featured in the movie. The Idaho Sawtooth Mountains aren’t as vast as the Rockies, but their jagged, rough peaks are just as breathtaking. And there’s plenty of recreational activities to choose from with lodging and food on site.

  9. Sanibel Island, Florida: This seashell-rich island, located off the Gulf coast near Ft. Myers, offers all of Florida’s good qualities, and none of the bad. Well, OK, there are some pink stucco buildings to be found, but it is Florida after all. But the good news is there’s no neon! It’s just beachy nature everywhere. Sanibel offers everything you could want in the way of accommodations and food and it’s white-sand beaches fill up daily with pink shells from the sea. If you want a secluded ceremony, check out the nearby island of Captiva, which is an uninhabited wonder of nature.

  10. Villa Hijos del Sol, Mexico: Just an hour north of Acapulco on the Mexican Riviera is Zihuatanejo-Ixtapa , a less crowded, more pristine beach area with lots of resorts, spas and amenities. There are many options for wedding locations, including the Villa Hijos del Sol, a seaside hotel with magnificent beaches and a stunning pool area for your reception.

  11. Cannon Beach, Oregon: If you’ve seen the Goonies, then you might recognize < http://www.el.com/to/cannonbeach/ >Cannon Beach’s magnificent jutting rock formation, Haystack Rock. This is one of Oregon’s most stunning beach vistas, with miles and miles of stretching, public beach land available for the wedding of your dreams. Hit up one of the nearby hotels for lodging and catering services – check out this online guide for resources.

  12. West Virginia : West Virginia might possibly be the most undervalued state. This is unfortunate, because in reality West Virginia is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The entire state is covered in dense, green, forest-covered mountains, beautiful rivers, and rolling hills. It’s a refuge for hikers, mountain bikers, and campers. And since it’s not densely populated there are plenty of serene wedding spots to be found. Nestled within the mountains are several resorts perfectly suited for your impending nuptials! Look at the Greenbrier Resort & Spa, a luxurious, old colonial hotel, or the massive Stonewall Resort.

  13. Big Bend, Texas: The Big Bend area is about as remote as it gets. Located on the Mexican border, about four hours from the closest airport in El Paso, your guests will have to work a little to get there, but they will thank you once they do. The park itself is one of the more unique National Parks in the U.S., giving your wedding party lots to do before or after the ceremony. The surrounding area also offers a diverse array of wedding locations to choose from. If you are looking for something outside the park’s borders, check out Marfa, a desert town that is quickly becoming a popular tourist location due to its thriving art scene. Or if art isn’t your thing, Ft. Davis offers gorgeous mountain backdrops and a few lodge-type hotels to choose from. If you’re planning a really small wedding, look at the Gage Hotel in Marathon. It’s about the only thing in town, but its comfortable rooms, cozy bar and restaurant, and picturesque pool area are most definitely worth forgoing traditional amenities. The hotel’s courtyard was built for a reception. All towns are located about 70 or so miles north of Big Bend’s entrance.

  14. Rancho Cicada Retreat, California: The Rancho Cicada Retreat, located about 50 miles east of Sacramento, offers all of the beauty of expensive winery weddings at a fraction of the cost. Plus, the site has the babbling Cosumnes River running right through it. And wedding parties get the added benefit of access to the two modern and spacious cabins and all of the more basic cabins and tent sites on the property. If your guests aren’t into roughing it so much, nearby Plymouth offers adequate lodgings. Several wineries are also located in the town, so your guests can tour the countryside during their downtime!

  15. St. Simons Island, Georgia: The Georgia Golden Isles have all the Southern allure of a Mark Twain novel, with dazzling charm, as well. St. Simons Island, where Eugenia Price wrote all of her novels, has a great lighthouse (lighthouses for sale) and many resources available for planning a wedding. Your guests can tour the marshes, see dolphins, and visit the nearby ecological haven of Cumberland Island, also a worthy candidate for a wedding location. Once you kick back with a mint julep, you’ll succumb to the easy pace of the region.

  16. Rainbow Ranch, Montana: Rainbow Ranch is located in the heart of Big Sky Country, Montana. Nestled in a pine valley with a river flowing through, the Rainbow Ranch is both luxurious and causal at the same time. Weddings are their specialty, so don’t worry about outsourcing the food or amenities. Lodging is on site and you and your guests can spend the day taking horseback rides through gorgeous mountain meadows, fishing in the nearby river, golfing or rafting. Plus, there’s an outdoor hot tub! Need I go on?

  17. Big Pine Key & Lower Florida Keys: The Florida Keys are a known tourist destination and can often be overcrowded, which is why the Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys are a perfect choice for a wedding. Get rid of the background noise by checking into one of these less-densely populated islands, chock-full of nature and water. To relax before your wedding, take a peaceful bike or boat ride.

  18. Quebec City, Canada: Quebec City might as well call itself “Little Europe.” The Château Frontenac, a historical hotel, dominates the skyline like a gigantic French castle. The picturesque city becomes even more so in the winter when it is covered in snow. Host your wedding there, at the breathtaking Montmorency Falls, or alongside the vast St. Lawrence River. You will feel like a princess, guaranteed.

  19. Sawmill Creek Resort, Ohio: If you’re a Midwesterner at heart, but want the feeling of a beach wedding, try the immense backdrop of Lake Erie for your ceremony. The Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron, Ohio has everything a quintessential wedding location needs. March down the aisle over the resort’s charming Gazebo Bridge, spanning a narrow waterway. The Resort offers full wedding-planning services, accommodations, and recreations like on-site golfing and charter fishing.

  20. White Hall Vineyards: White Hall Vineyards, located near Charlottesville, Virginia, is the perfect spot for a stylish country wedding. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, White Hall is an old-farm-turned-vineyard with great wines, reasonable rental rates, and terrific scenery.

  21. Mendocino, California: InMendocino everything is fantastic. The food, the wine, the scenic Pacific views, the accommodations. Choose adventure or choose quaint chapel, whatever your style Mendocino has something for you.

  22. Rancho De La Osa, Arizona: This Dude Ranch has been featured in many tourism and architectural publications, and in 2006 it was listed as one of Arizona’s most romantic getaways. The tasteful yet hip, modern interior design contrasts beautifully with the Old West theme of a Dude Ranch. The remote location, on the Mexican border, south of Tucson, offers much seclusion, and the ranch itself offers many activities like horseback riding, swimming, hiking, and spa services – it also has a great wine restaurant on site. There are a couple of catches – the entire ranch can only sleep 50 people, so it’s definitely for small weddings only, and if you’re thinking about a summer wedding, steer clear of the 100-degree-plus heats.

  23. Badlands: So, you’ve surely heard of the South Dakota Badlands, but it’s most likely that you’ve never considered a wedding there. Well, think again! The Badlands and Black Hills have supremely unique landscapes, with wild bison roaming freely. Rent out an old ranch, like The Circle View Gathering, or head up to the legendary, historic town of Deadwood for an outlaw-themed reception.

  24. Harvest Moon Guest House: Eloping? Even if you’re taking along a few friends, you might consider The Harvest Moon Guest House, a super-secluded, surrounded-by-nature retreat on the Similkameen River in British Columbia. It sleeps only eight, but there are other amenities nearby. It features cute, log-cabin amenities, a hot tub, and nature activities galore!

Easy Centerpiece Idea

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a flicker of an idea

Here is an easy centerpiece idea that is sure to light up any wedding. With the help of these candle and flower centerpieces, the whole table will shine. For each one, use candle wax to attach a small floral frog to the center of a shallow bowl. Push a taper into the floral frog to secure. Pour water into the bowl. Clip amaryllis blooms (or other large flowers) from their stems, and arrange them in the bowl around the candle. Source

 

Travel by Horse Drawn Carriage

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horse and carriage

If you are having a Christmas or winter themed wedding them why not make a dashing entrance and/or exit? You may be traveling from the wedding site to the reception or simply leaving to the wedding site, but why not do it with pizzazz. Invoke the spirit of the Christmas season and travel by horse drawn carriage. The harness can be decorated with Christmas foliage and lots of chiming bells or left as is. Either way it is a romantic and unforgettable way to travel!

Where to Have a Winter Wedding

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snow

Look for an inn with a fireplace for an intimate winter wedding. For a larger affair, you may be able to use a historic mansion or private club that will still have intimate warmth. Unless you’re getting married in a state that will have guaranteed snow during your wedding date, avoid a room that has a large picture window. You may imagine drifts of beautiful snow, and end up with a grey rainy day. Be sure to ask what seasonal decorations they use – you’ll save money as many sites are already heavily decorated. Also, check to make sure your site will be adequately heated during the winter months; old churches can be especially drafty. Source