A printable simple wedding checklist

It's interesting:
"I think you'll all agree that it's been a wonderful wedding so far. ... But I never received a formal invitation to the wedding, so I just hope I haven't eaten a meal ..."

Since wedding planning can be overwhelming, time consuming and expensive, it's best to have a clear, succinct list of everything you'll need to do to get ready for the big day. You can print out a ready-made list with typical wedding day planning ideas. Remember, if you're attempting to plan a wedding in six months or less, you'll have to prioritize and check off the largest items first.

1. Checklists by Months

   • Todays-Weddings.com offers a printable checklist for twelve months of wedding planning. It breaks tasks into time periods, starting with what you'll want to get in order one year or more before your wedding date. Tasks include having the bride's and groom's families meet, setting a wedding date and booking a wedding planner. When you're nine to 11 months away from your wedding, the checklist has to-do items such as searching for wedding vendors and preparing an initial guest list. When you're six to eight months from your date, Todays-Weddings.com suggest that you start your gift registry, purchase the wedding gown and send Save the Date cards. It then breaks up tasks that have to be done four to five months prior to the wedding and then month-by-month for the last three months of planning. The two weeks before the date are broken down as well, as is the day before the wedding and the actual wedding day. LittleWeddingGuide.com has a similar printable checklist as well.

   Work Sheets

   • RealSimple.com offers wedding worksheets so that you can sort out all of your wedding details clearly. The wedding budget worksheet helps you to manage your money and details how much money you have budgeted, the estimates your vendors will give you and how much you ended up spending in the end. The wedding vendor contact list lets your organize contact information for your baker, florist, venue, caterer, band or DJ, officiant, videographer and photographer, dress shop and wedding planner.

   Wedding Party and Guests

   • Aside from a wedding "To Do" checklist, you'll want to print out a list of both your wedding party and guests. For the members of your wedding party, include their phone numbers, e-mail addresses and mailing address - this way, you'll have their information at your fingertips so that you can get in touch with them when you need. Write a guest list as well and include the correct spelling of their first and last names, their mailing addresses and whether or not they're attending the wedding. This will come in useful when you have to give the final head count to your caterer and when you write thank you notes after the wedding.

   Tips

   • If you're planning a wedding in a short amount of time, such as six months or less, you'll still have to get most of the tasks done as you would if you had more time to plan. LDSWeddings.com offers a condensed checklist for a wedding that needs to be planned in six months. Organize all of your planning, ideas, lists, receipts and order forms in one wedding binder. You'll want to do this from the very beginning of your wedding planning.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, wedding checklist, wedding planning, breaks tasks, from your, guest list

Plumeria wedding packages in hawaii

It's interesting:
"Linda is beautiful. She’s intelligent. She’s funny. She can cook like Nigella Lawson and she’s got the patience of a saint. Paul, I can say with my hand on my heart that you’re one of the luckiest men alive. And she writes a cracking Best Man speech as well."

You finally have the ring, and now it's time to start planning for your big day. If you live in Hawaii, or have dreams of going there for a destination wedding, look for ceremony and reception packages offered by hotels. A wedding package gives you an inclusive array of services, such as food and linens, so that you can enjoy some peace of mind in the months leading up to your wedding. For brides who envision being surrounded by flowers during their wedding, look specifically for Plumeria wedding packages in Hawaii.

1. Four Seasons Resort

   • At the Four Seasons Resort in Maui, brides and grooms have the choice between three wedding packages. The plumeria wedding package includes a wedding coordinator from the resort, non-denominational officiant, a bridal bouquet, floral petals scattered down the aisle, white garden chairs for the ceremony, solo musician for the ceremony and two hours of photography. Plumerias are used to decorate the outdoor garden where the ceremony takes place.

   Paradise Maui

   • Paradise Maui is a professional organization that performs weddings on the beaches of Maui. The company offers brides and grooms a selection of packages to make their ceremony extra special. The plumeria wedding package must be reserved with a $300 deposit, and includes your choice of a Maui beach for the ceremony, assistance getting the marriage license, a plumeria lei for the bride, a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage for toasting and photographer. You also have the option of upgrading the package to include limousine transportation and a professionally edited wedding video.

   Precious Maui Weddings

   • Precious Maui Weddings is a wedding company that performs marriages on Maui beaches. The plumeria wedding package that they offer is the most basic of packages, costing couples $345 plus tax. The wedding package includes a licensed minister, romantic beach setting, two wedding leis and a wedding certificate. Precious Maui Weddings is available to work with couples to achieve their dream wedding, so changes to the packages can be made upon discussion.

   Merry Maui Weddings

   • At Merry Maui Weddings, the plumeria wedding package is a multi-media package that is ideal for the couple who wants to have wedding pictures and a professional video to remember their special day. The package costs $1,695.00 plus tax, with a $500 deposit to confirm. The package includes a romantic beach location of the bride and groom's choice, bridal bouquet, floral leis, traditional conch shell blowing ceremony, witness, sparkling cider toast, personal champagne flutes etched with the couple's names and their wedding date and a CD of music that is selected by the couple. The media portion of the package gives couples 80-120 digital photography images on a CD and an edited DVD video to keep.

   Hawaiian Island Weddings

   • If you go through Hawaiian Island Weddings, you can select their plumeria wedding package and be married in the Maui Tropical Plantation surrounded by tropical plants, flowers and fruits. The wedding package is $1,425 and includes a minister of your choice, marriage license arrangements, witnesses, non-alcoholic toast, Hawaiian leis, cascading bridal bouquet, professional photography and 28 images to keep on a CD.

   Fairmont

   • The Fairmont hotel and resort in Maui offers brides and grooms romantic and luxurious wedding packages. The plumeria wedding package is $3,200 and is ideal for the couple who wants to elope. The package offers couples a non-denominational officiant, wedding certificate, bridal bouquet or lei and a two-hour photography session after the ceremony. You have the option of adding enhancements to your special day, such as a butterfly release, conch shell blower or hula dancer.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding package, plumeria wedding package, Maui Weddings, wedding packages, bridal bouquet, package includes, plumeria wedding

How to celebrate a 60th wedding anniversary

celebrate a 60th wedding anniversary

It's interesting:
"Congratulatory remarks about the wedding ... Wasn't the wedding ceremony beautiful? That row of handsome men and a parade of gorgeous attendants. And ..."

Sixty years together is not only something to be proud of, but something to commemorate with a celebration. Deciding celebrate it is important. You want the occasion to fit your lifestyle, budget and personality. Keep all of these things in mind, along with your desire to have fun, and your 60th anniversary is sure to the best so far.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Decide how much you can afford to spend. The 60th anniversary is often times referred to as the "Diamond" anniversary, but just because it's called that doesn't mean you can afford it.

     If money is no option, consider purchasing each other diamonds. That is a gift that is not only beautiful, but also very meaningful, especially on your 60th anniversary.

   • 2

     Assess your style. Are you an active couple? While many people spend their anniversaries jet-setting to the Bahamas, it may not fit your lifestyle. However, a short drive to a cottage in a nearby forest or a day trip to an ocean side city might fit the way you live better.

   • 3

     Figure out how much reminiscing you want to do. Anniversaries are often spent thinking about the past and rehashing old memories. Is that something you want? If so, there are many options for you.

     For one, you can renew your vows. Sixty years is a long time, and perhaps you might have different things to say this time around. Renewing your vows and reliving that tradition can make you feel as giddy and as lighthearted as the first special moment. Many people also decide to write their own vows the second time around.

     Renewing your vows can also mean a second honeymoon. Going on a vacation can be a great way to relax and spend time with your loved one, and a most excellent way to commemorate the anniversary.

     You can also retrace your first date. Most of the details may not be the same, but remembering the first time your eyes met can remind you of what in your partner you fell in love with.

   • 4

     Decide how big of a deal you want your 60th anniversary celebration to be. Some people go all out, but you can make this event as big or as little of a production as you'd like. Some people throw entire weddings, while others renew the vows in private or with just a few select family members. This is your moment, so organize it in any way you feel comfortable.

     If you're more low-key, think about doing something as simple as spending time with your family. Some people decide to celebrate their anniversary with the people who mean the most to them--children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and other loved ones. A simple dinner at home could be the perfect homage to a life spent together.

Tips &- Warnings

• If you are planning the anniversary for a couple, include them in the planning process to ensure they will get exactly what they want.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: 60th anniversary, Some people, with your, your 60th, your 60th anniversary

Mystic seaport facts

It's interesting:
"Your opportunity to wow the audience and create a moment at the wedding people will be ... The Internet's largest collection of original wedding speech material, ..."

The name Mystic Seaport sounds like the name of a town, but in reality it is the name of a museum dedicated to ships, sea and history. Nestled in the Mystic, Connecticut, the museum is a mind and body experience with hands-on activities for the outdoor enthusiast to appreciate.

1. Planetarium

   • Dedicated to the stars and seaman style of navigation, the Treworgy Planetarium features a star projector, daily programs and an exhibit on 19th century sea navigation. The sea navigation exhibit walks each visitor through the process of figuring out location using the 19th century techniques.

   Dining

   • Several options exist for dining in Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic. The Gallery Restaurant serves hamburgers, fries, wraps, sandwiches and seafood. It has something for nearly everyone, which makes it popular with museum guests.

   Boating

   • Mystic Seaport museum brings everything together with rides on a water taxi, rowboat, sailboat, catboat, or 100-year old steamboat. With the exception of the water shuttle, which transports guests from one side of the museum to the other, all boat rides cost an additional fee.

   Garden

   • With history of horticulture and humans, the museum planted shrubs, trees and flowers on 19 acres of land. Two of the nine gardens recreate 19th century gardens.

   Village

   • The museum created a 19th century village with real buildings. The 27 buildings transported to the village include a school, post office, houses and several shops.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: 19th century, Mystic seaport facts, seaport facts

How do zoos help endangered animals?

It's interesting:
"I have been for months trying to write a wedding speech, I wish I'd found this site sooner. It's going to ... You can find speech material to suit any style of wedding."

The days when zoos were simply collections of caged animals maintained for public curiosity and entertainment are long past. Modern zoos play an important role in environmental protection, conservation and awareness. Zoos help endangered animals through breeding programs, education, professional training, habitat protection and scientific research. Through organizations like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, as well as the United Nations Environment Program and the European Endangered Species Program, zoos are able to work cooperatively to help endangered animals.

1. Breeding Programs

   • Zoos help endangered animals through breeding programs that create and sustain genetically viable numbers of particular species. Describing their zoo's participation in cooperative European breeding programs, scientists at the Edinburgh Zoo explain that genetic diversity enables animal populations to hold onto the qualities that help them adapt and survive in the wild.

     Around the world, zoos that exchange breeding animals and sperm develop specialist knowledge of particular species. In the UK, for example, Woburn Safari Park supports breeding programs for Eastern Mountain bongos. The National Zoo in Washington has successfully bred Sumatran tiger cubs, helping to boost a population that was once only about 700 in the world.

   Research

   • Endangered Humboldt's penguins are being bred at Colchester Zoo.

     Zoos are now major scientific establishments, helping endangered species through research into every aspect of their life cycle, vulnerabilities, behaviors, diets and habitats. The San Diego Zoo's Institute for Conservation Research studies methods of African elephant conservation. The Wildlife Conservation Society's (WCS) Bronx Zoo monitors 350 species using high tech tools, population surveys and research cooperation with international partners, resulting in a continual flow of discoveries. Longleat Safari Park in England supports mountain gorilla and elephant conservation and monitoring in the wild.

   Habitat Protection

   • Pressure on natural habitats is a key factor in endangering species.

     Animal species that are otherwise successful can become endangered through the disappearance of their natural habitat. Although some endangered animals face a future only in captivity, zoo breeding programs aim to release animals back into the wild wherever possible. Because of this, a number of zoos work actively to conserve natural habitats and support ecologically viable landscapes and seascapes. The WCS has helped create more than 100 protected areas around the world. These range from Mongolian grasslands to coral reefs.

   Public Education

   • Engaging otters capture children's interest in zoo education programs.

     Zoos help endangered animals by educating the public about wild life protection and animal conservation. All the world's major zoos have education programs that teach children about animal behavior and protection. The Bronx Zoo has an award-winning education department with programs to teach young children, teens, families and adults about wildlife and wild habitats. The WCS that operates the Bronx Zoo also runs an active program in New York's Central Park Zoo. There, the zoo&rsquo-s Wildlife Theater Players use drama, puppetry, games and songs to inspire young audiences to protect the natural world.

   Professional Training

   • Young people can intern at zoos to learn about careers with endangered animals.

     The next generation of ecologists, conservationists and animal behaviorists--those who will help zoos protect endangered animals in the future--are getting their training in zoos right now. In January 2010, the National Zoo launched the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, dedicated to global conservation and the training of conservationists. The Zoological Society of London, which operates the London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, offers work experience programs for young people who want to work in conservation. In San Diego, Zoo InternQuest interns explore careers at the San Diego Zoo and the zoo's Institute for Conservation Research.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: endangered animals, help endangered, help endangered animals, breeding programs, Zoos help endangered, animals through

How do i donate a wedding gown in st. louis?

It's interesting:
"To both sets of parents * To the bride groom * For being chosen as best man. Congratulatory remarks about the wedding. Beautiful bride * Wonderful occasion ..."

After your wedding gown has served its purpose on your big day, mission-minded non-profit organizations may give you a reason not to store the dress in a dark closet for years to come. If you feel like donating your dress to a good cause in St. Louis, you have several options for paying it forward.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Jewish Federation of St. Louis

   • The Jewish Federation of St. Louis operates G'mach, a "free-loan society" for wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom dresses at a central location in St. Louis. If you wish to donate to G'mach, call (314) 862-7537 or email at ernewman1@aol.com.

   Metro St. Louis Cinderella Project

   • Sponsored by the St. Charles County Community Council, the Metro St. Louis Cinderella Project accepts donations of prom dresses and other special event gowns. Women who are referred to the Cinderella Project by guidance counselors or other agencies are able to use the dresses. You can find out more about the Cinderella Project by calling (636) 978-2277 or emailing info@communitycouncilstc.org.

   Brides Against Breast Cancer

   • Brides Against Breast Cancer is a national traveling roadshow of donated wedding gowns, the proceeds from which benefit patients with metastatic breast cancer. Donations can be sent to:

     Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation

     4252 SE International Way Suite J

     Milwaukie, OR 97222

     503-491-8091

     bridesagainstbreastcancer.org

     However, Brides Against Breast Cancer only accepts dresses that are less than five years old. For other national organizations that will accept your wedding gown donation, see the Resource link to DonateMyDress.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Breast Cancer, Cinderella Project, wedding gown, Against Breast, Against Breast Cancer, Brides Against, Brides Against Breast

How to set up for a dj at a wedding

set up for a dj at a wedding

It's interesting:
"Best man speech writing put this challenge into sharp relief: You are not a professional comedian (at least we don't think you are), but everyone at that wedding ..."

A DJ is an important entertainer at the wedding reception. Help make the DJ experience an enjoyable one for the bridal couple, the wedding reception guests and the DJ by setting up for the DJ before he arrives. Setting up for a DJ requires solid and direct communication with both the reception hall and the DJ. Be clear about about what the DJ needs to make your wedding reception entertainment memorable.

Things You'll Need

• Reception venue
• DJ with professional equipment
• Playlist and "Do Not" playlist
• Schedule of wedding reception events

Instructions

1. • 1

     Ask the DJ how much equipment she will be bringing and how many outlets and plugs she will need. Find out how much room the DJ will need to set up the equipment. Remember to ask the DJ if she needs a table, any lights or any other equipment that the reception hall may be able to provide.

   • 2

     Visit the venue ahead of time to determine where the DJ will be set up for the wedding reception. If possible, have the reception hall set up a table and an area for the DJ. Plan ahead with the reception hall to have the DJ admitted to the hall one hour in advance to give the DJ time to set up before the bridal couple and the guests arrive.

   • 3

     Create a schedule of wedding reception events when you set up for the DJ. The exact order of the events will depend on how long you have the reception hall and your personal preferences. Start the wedding reception with an entrance song for the bride and groom. This song should be determined ahead of time and included in the set-up instructions for the DJ. Include other traditional reception events on the set up schedule for the Dj, including a blessing, cake cutting, toasting time, first dance, the father-and-daughter dance, tossing of the bouquet or a singles' dance.

   • 4

     Write out a complete playlist of songs in addition to the songs played during scheduled events. The playlist should be given to the DJ as a list of songs that must be played at the wedding reception. Set up for the DJ at a wedding reception should also include a list of songs that should not be played.

   • 5

     Communicate with the DJ about the type of attire you require at the wedding reception. Part of the set up could include providing the DJ with any theme attire and decorating the DJ area and table accordingly.

Tips &- Warnings

• Communicate all of your wedding reception needs to the DJ.

• Act as the liaison between the DJ and the wedding reception venue.

• Do not assume that the DJ knows what you want. Put it in writing.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding reception, reception hall, reception events, your wedding reception, ahead time

Wedding inscription ideas to son from mother

It's interesting:
"It gives me enormous pleasure and pride to be here today, although I am slightly unprepared for this heat; when Paul told me the wedding was to be held in his ..."

Personalizing a gift with an inscription turns an ordinary item into a keepsake. As a mother, telling your son you wish him the best is a delicate matter that requires understanding both your son and his bride. Avoid statements that maintain the status quo: "I'll be there when you need me," or "You're always welcome back home." Ensure your sentiment acknowledges the wedding as a celebration of a new household and a new life for your child.

1. Old, New, Borrowed and Blue

   • An old English rhyme describes items the bring the couple luck on their wedding day. Use this poem to inspire an engraving on a new desk set, blue picture frame or old personal possession, e.g., baby booties, rattle, hat or wooden toy. Use the opportunity to give your son a bit of motherly advice. Inscribe "Remember your Roots" on a family portrait, "Remember to Have Fun" on a favorite toy or "Never Go to Bed Angry" on a pillow.

   Watch

   • Watches are great gifts because they can be custom built from the gears up. Select a base design with features that reflects your son's lifestyle: sleek metal for formal wear, an interchangeable leather strap for casual events or a fully-featured diver's chronometer. Inscribe the watch band or the face, e.g., "Watch Over Her," or "Treasure This Time."

   Decanter Set

   • A gentleman's study is not complete without a stylish decanter set. Have the decanter and glasses inscribed with your son's initials or family crest. For a fee you can have each piece of the set inscribed with a unique word, e.g., "faith," "hope," "patience" and "charity" on the glasses, with "love" on the decanter. Instead of inscribing the decanter set components, consider purchasing a separate tray and having the wood engraved.

   Hobby Equipment

   • If your son is an avid hobbyist, consider purchasing a tool or accessory related to his favorite past-time. Although not traditionally given as a gift, recreational equipment is not as uncommon item on wedding registries. Inscribe a tent tarp with the couple's initials. Purchase a baseball bat with an engraving of your son's name. If the gift itself cannot be engraved consider engraving an accessory such as a paracord bracelet or dog tag. Inscribe the token gift with a short saying "What a Catch" for a fisherman or "Persevere" for a rock-climber.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: consider purchasing, from mother, gift with, ideas from, ideas from mother, inscribed with, inscription ideas

Invitation wording for a wedding reception in las vegas

It's interesting:
"Charles Dickens said a measure of a woman’s love for her man was the lengths to which she was prepared to go to make him happy. If this holds true, then Linda, you have reached that goal, for Paul is the happiest I have ever seen him."

A wedding invitation sets the tone for the wedding. The invitation should give guests an idea of what to expect at the wedding by using traditional or informal wording. When the invitation is for the wedding reception only, the language must make it clear that the guest is not invited to the wedding without making the guest feel slighted for not having been invited. Once you decide on the wording, a stationery company can print the invitations and deliver them to you for mailing.

Things You'll Need

• Wedding invitations

Instructions

1. • 1

     Write the invitation wording in a way that explains that the wedding will already have taken place by the time the reception occurs. Use the word "reception" so there can be no doubt. Use a formal or informal tone, depending on the kind of wedding reception you are planning.

   • 2

     Use a traditional tone and format if your wedding reception will be a traditional event:

     Mr. and Mrs. BridesParents request the pleasure of your company at a reception celebrating the wedding of their daughter, Miss Bride, to Mr. Bridegroom on Saturday, the 12th of June, this year, 7:00 p.m., at Lucky Couple Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

   • 3

     Use an informal tone for a less formal reception. If the bride and groom are hosting their own Las Vegas wedding reception, this informal invitation wording is appropriate:

     We are pleased to announce our wedding on Saturday, the 12th of June, this year. Please celebrate with us at a reception immediately following the ceremony at 7:00 p.m., Lucky Couple Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

   • 4

     Explain the reason the guest was not invited to the wedding, if it is appropriate:

     Mr. and Mrs. Bridesparents are pleased to announce the wedding of their daughter, Miss Bride, to Mr. Bridegroom at a private family wedding in Tahiti. Mr. and Mrs. Bridesparents and Mr. and Mrs. Bridegroom request the pleasure of your company at a reception celebrating the wedding on Saturday, the 12th of June, this year, at 7:00 p.m., Lucky Couple Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Tips &- Warnings

• Publish a web page for the wedding reception, with a map to the venue and links to nearby hotels and attractions. Be careful who you share these details with, for security purposes while you are away from home.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding reception, 12th June, 12th June this, Casino Vegas, Casino Vegas Nevada, Couple Casino, Couple Casino Vegas

How to visit main street chatham ma

visit main street chatham, ma

It's interesting:
"The happy couple have picked a beautiful sunny day to get married. It’s perhaps a little too hot for me in this suit though, but at least I now know how Chewbacca felt filming those desert scenes."

Cape Cod towns each has a unique "feel" and historical place within seaside New England culture. Chatham, MA, on the Cape, sits at the "elbow" of Massachusetts. It is surrounded by bays that lead to the Atlantic. Main Street features quaint shops, plenty of great places to eat and many art galleries.

Instructions

1. • 1

     If driving, park near the rotary on Main Street, which is also Rte 28. It's easier to walk up and down the street than drive. Parking is available on the street (especially during off season) or many public, free lots. Start your visit by walking on the right side on the way "up" (east) Main Street and come back down on the opposite side. This way you won't miss any shops.

   • 2

     Stop at Ben Franklin store, an old-fashioned general store that sells everything from water shoes to fabric to salad bowls. This is a great store if you're renting a cottage and forgot to bring dish towels. Prices can be steep, but kids will love browsing the aisles of games and beach toys. Next stop at the information booth to pick up pamphlets about Chatham and the Cape. You can also pick up a list of shops. Stop by Yankee Ingenuity, a unique gift shop that features handmade jewelry, collector items and garden decor. Prices are reasonable, the stock rotates on a regular basis and your purchase supports local artists.

   • 3

     Further up Main Street is a small enclave of shops and the Blue Coral restaurant, tucked in the back under trees lit up year round. A few steps in the same direction takes you to Yellow Umbrella books, a new and used bookstore crammed with books on New England, Cape Cod and used paperbacks. Next to Yellow Umbrella is Chatham Squire, a local favorite that offers a full bar, authentic New England cuisine and a loud and lively gathering of Chathamites. Last stop on this side of the street is Monomy Coffee, in a Cape Cod house with picnic tables out front.

   • 4

     Cross Main Street and head back in the opposite direction. First stop is Chatham Candy Manor, a must stop for homemade fudge, taffy and hand dipped truffles. Galleries, jewelry and gift shops fill the next block before you get to Marley's Restaurant, next to Wayside Inn. Sit by the fire and enjoy lobster, steak and other fine seafood. You'll walk past a kitchen supply store and a wine store before getting to Chatham Hardware, in which you can find anything you need for your house or cottage.

   • 5

     Keep walking back to your starting point and stop by Captain's Table for seafood served on the patio or inside in a casual dining room. Next door is the Life Is Good clothing store which is a great place to buy shirts, pj's or mugs with uplifting sayings. Back toward the bottom of Main Street, near the rotary where you started, be sure to stop into Chatham Penny Candy to fill a bag with gummy bears, tootsie rolls and taffy. Hand dipped ice cream is not to be missed either.

Tips &- Warnings

• If you visit off season (before mid June and after Labor Day) you won't have to fight the crowds but some stores may not be open year round.

• Be sure to walk off the beaten path a bit. Walk down the side streets next to United Church of Christ and you'll see some of the oldest and most beautiful New England homes tucked away behind gardens and white picket fences. This Church also offers wonderful clambakes on Friday's during the summer and free concerts.

• There are more unique clothing and gift stores along Main Street that sell anything but sea shell mirrors and Cape Cod keyrings. You'll find hand dyed shirts, hand made jewelry, one of a kind handbags and pillows, quilts and chair throws that echo the muted tones of the sea and sand and reflect New England sensibility.

• Do not park any place designated as "no parking." Chathamites are protective of their privacy and parking is enforced to protect year round residents.

• During peak season, strolling up or down Main Street can be like walking along Madison Avenue during Christmas rush. It gets crowded and can be difficult to get into restaurants. Chatham is beautiful anytime of year so take advantage of spring and fall visits.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Main Street, year round, Chatham Cape, main street chatham, near rotary

Places to get married in bloomington, indiana

It's interesting:
"I would like to congratulate Paul on his impeccable taste in choosing such a beautiful wife. And Linda, well done on saying “I do” to my mate Paul, because, let’s face it - that must have been hard."

Many special events happen in Bloomington, Indiana, each year. Your own special event, your wedding, may take place in Bloomington, where you can choose from indoor and outdoor venues. Whether you want landscaped views of Lake Monroe as your backdrop or prefer an elegant, indoor setting, Bloomington will have the perfect place for your wedding.

1. Four Winds Resort and Marina

   • Located on a 70-acre wooded property with views of Lake Monroe, Four Winds Resort and Marina features a ballroom, which can accommodate up to 200 guests, and the landscaped grounds, which can accommodate up to 400 guests. Your wedding ceremony and reception can take place here, where you can choose food from the hors d'oeuvre and dinner menus. Four Winds Resort and Marina offers a complimentary lakeside room for the wedding couple with a minimum room block of 10 rooms for two nights, group room rates for overnight guests, referrals to wedding service providers, choice of available tablecloth and napkin colors and lakeside locations for photographs.

   Indiana University Auditorium

   • Wedding ceremonies and receptions in Indiana University Auditorium take place in the Hall of Murals. This elegant wedding venue features a 35-foot-high ceiling, staircases on north and south ends, marble walls and banisters and priceless, restored murals from the American painter, Thomas Hart Benton. On your wedding day there will be a coat check, plants, four-, six- and eight-foot tables, 32-inch round tables, portable bars and adjustable lighting. The 2,028-square-foot space can accommodate up to 350 guests for a wedding reception. Alcohol is permitted, but subject to rules and regulations. A list of preferred caterers is available, but you can choose your own. A piano, audio visual equipment, lecterns, choral risers and a dance floor may be requested.

   Deer Park Manor

   • Deer Park Manor is a gated nature preserve that is home to wildlife, such as deer and red fox, and has a central fountain in the courtyard. This venue offers a preparation room for the bride and groom. Wedding ceremonies and receptions may take place outdoors, but Deer Park Manor has a hall with cathedral ceilings that can accommodate up to 200 guests for the ceremony. The hall accommodates 140 guests for the reception, but doors leading to terraces may be opened to create more space. A list of preferred caterers is available or you can choose your own. Alcohol is permitted as long as it is served by licensed servers. Florists, event coordinators and a PA system with microphones are available. You'll find a five-disc CD player and mp3 capabilities with speakers throughout Deer Park Manor, or you may hire a DJ or other performers.

   The Fields

   • Wedding ceremonies and receptions can take place in The Clubhouse, an elegantly renovated 1940s barn located at The Fields, which is a 58-acre residential area. The Clubhouse is a 10,000-square-foot venue with a 24-foot-high cathedral ceiling, hardwood floors and a large granite, floor-to-ceiling, double-sided fireplace. It can accommodate up to 250 guests in a 2,700-square-foot room. Your wedding may be catered from the Clubhouse's fully equipped kitchen or you can choose your own caterer. Tables and chairs are included, and the room may be set up the day before the wedding. Rates vary on the day of the week of your wedding, whether it's during the day or at night and whether it's for 125 or 250 guests.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: accommodate guests, take place, Deer Park, Deer Park Manor, Park Manor, ceremonies receptions

Beach wedding in maryland

It's interesting:
"I want to welcome each of you to the wedding today. It is a true testament to the bride and groom that you have taken time from your busy schedule to come and witness their marriage. I have never seen a more beautiful bride than Linda, and Paul looks just plain proud, doesn’t he?"

Whether it's on the Atlantic Ocean or Chesapeake Bay, many of Maryland's waterfront hotels and beach clubs offer opportunities for beach-side weddings. Maryland's beach-front offers venues for ceremonies and, often, a reception. Most Maryland beach weddings occur in the spring and summer since the temperatures decrease in the fall and winter. Some of Maryland's beach-front venues offer chair setup and catering services.

1. Chesapeake Bay Beach Club

   • The Chesapeake Bay Beach Club (baybeachclub.com) in Stevensville is less than 20 minutes from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The Beach Club hosts bay-front ceremonies on the Chesapeake Bay and has several venues for receptions. Chesapeake Bay Beach Club's largest venue is the Beach House Ballroom, which seats approximately 180 guests. Parties with more than 180 guests may use the Beach House Ballroom and Tavern Bayside venues- both venues offer views of the bay.

   Princess Bayside Beach Hotel

   • Located in Ocean City, the Princess Bayside Beach Hotel (princessbayside.com) hosts wedding ceremonies overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Princess Bayside's beach-side venue accommodates 10 to 175 guests for beach weddings. Wedding amenities from Princess Bayside include a wedding arch, sound system and seating. After the ceremony, wedding parties may use the hotel's Pebble Beach Ballroom or Augusta Ballroom- the ballrooms seat 75 and 175 guests, respectively.

   Kurtz's Beach

   • Kurtz's Beach (kurtzsbeach.com) is a beach-side club in Pasadena, Maryland, and facilitates waterfront weddings on the Chesapeake Bay. Waterfront ceremonies at Kurtz's occur at the facility's gazebo area. This venue seats 120 guests. The Bay Room Ballroom is available for wedding receptions- the ballroom's patio area offers seating and sweeping views of the bay. Kurtz's Beach requires wedding parties to use their catering service for on-site receptions.

   Sandaway -- Waterfront Lodging

   • Waterfront wedding facilities are available at Sandaway Lodge (sandaway.com), located on the Chesapeake Bay in Oxford. Sandaway's has a sandy beach on the bay for weddings- this venue seats 100 guests for ceremonies and receptions. The lodge provides discounted rates for wedding guests in its bed-and-breakfast style rooms- Sandaway has 18 rooms. For off-site receptions, Sandaway is able to arrange receptions at the historic Robert Morris Inn, less a block from the lodge.

   Castle in the Sand Hotel

   • The Castle in the Sand Hotel (castleinthesand.com) in Ocean City hosts intimate elopements and weddings parties of 50 to 75 guests. This hotel has three blocks of oceanfront beach property for couples to have their ceremony. Castle in the Sand also offers event coordination services with its wedding packages. After the wedding, the newlyweds may stay in a one-bedroom suite within the hotel. The hotel's suites provide scenic views of the ocean.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Beach Club, Princess Bayside, Castle Sand, Chesapeake Beach, Chesapeake Beach Club, Kurtz Beach

How to create a wedding program

create a wedding program

It's interesting:
"Even world class comics know what it's like to die on stage, and a wedding ... Nobody wants the soundtrack of their wedding night to be a chorus of loud groans."

The wedding program allows your guests to follow the order of the marriage ceremony. They are particularly helpful if the service is complex, the congregation is expected to participate in the proceedings, or many of your guests are unfamiliar with the service you are having. Professional printing costs add up, so creating your own wedding program gives you control over its contents and your budget. Once you have the vital information set, personalize and stylize the program as much as you wish. Like every aspect of your wedding, programs can reflect your personalities.

Things You'll Need

• Fine quality paper
• High-volume printer

Instructions

1. Information and Wording

   • 1

     Create the front cover. A phrase pronouncing the celebration of marriage appears on the cover. "The Celebration and Blessing of the Marriage of [Bride's name] and [Groom's name]" is an example. The date and time follow, usually in the formal format: "Saturday March 22, 2012 at 6 o'clock in the evening." Finally, the name of the church or ceremony location and the city and state appear at the bottom.

   • 2

     List the wedding party on the first inside page. The maid of honor and bridesmaids are listed first, followed by the best man and groomsmen. The flower girl and ring bearer come next.

   • 3

     Outline the marriage ceremony on the second inside page. The contents of the ceremony will vary by religion and denomination. Your officiant will provide you with a copy. It is also wise to have him or her proofread the final copy before printing. This is your guests' guide, so it should be accurate.

   • 4

     Continue the ceremony on the fourth inside page if the ceremony is long or complex. Here, you would list the Scripture readings, homily, prayers, blessing of the marriage and recessional. It is not necessary to include the text of the readings and prayers, but a page number or chapter and verse indicator allows guests to follow along if they wish.

   • 5

     The final inside page should list the parents of the bride and groom and other participants in the ceremony, including the officiant, lay readers, singers and organist.

   • 6

     The back cover can be left blank, or it can include information about the reception. The place, time and directions may be included.

   Formatting and Printing

   • 7

     Load paper of the appropriate size, color and weight. Set your printer settings in the word processor or design tool to the dimensions of the paper.

   • 8

     Create the program using a template in desktop publishing software. Bi-folds, tri-folds and saddle-bound programs are popular options.

   • 9

     Insert your information and print according to the software's instructions. You may have to print on both sides of the paper. Do a test run to preserve paper and ink. Verify that the printed program appears the way you wanted it.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: inside page, wedding program, your guests, create wedding, create wedding program

How to persuade an atheist to become christian

persuade an atheist to become christian

It's interesting:
"Sorry if the speeches drag on. Wedding receptions can be a bit like an X Factor results show. You just want to skip through the talky bits to find out ..."

If you want to persuade an atheist to open up and listen to your Christian beliefs, you need to arm yourself with evidence, examples and a good testimony of what you led you to the Christian faith to begin with. Atheists often remain steadfast in the denial of a supreme being because they expect concrete proof that God truly exists. While no one can gather that type of evidence, you can use other resources to help convince them of your faith.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Focus on the emotional conversion to Christianity. Atheists tend to focus on the rational things of life, things they can test and touch. You cannot test and touch emotion, but you certainly can feel it. Try relating to the atheist on this emotional level by recounting the story of how you found Christ and why you decided to turn to Christianity. Retelling your story of the emotional journey you took to get to the level of faith you have now may peak the interest of an atheist.

   • 2

     Ask the atheist what they believe caused the universe to be formed. Explain that a universe so complex and vast simply cannot come from nothing- a supreme being, often called in arguments an intelligent designer, must exist. Acknowledge that the existence of a supreme being does not necessarily negate the existence of scientifically proven data, such as evolution. In fact, science and religion can work hand in hand if one is willing to listen. An atheist need not give up his knowledge of science and the origins of the Earth to accept that a supreme being exists.

   • 3

     Raise the question of morality with the atheist. Inquire of him where he feels he got his moral values and sense of right and wrong. Argue that morals are something many are innately born with. While our Creator has given us free will, he has also provided us with a sense of right and wrong and the choice to do right or wrong. Most of us experience that inner feeling of guilt and shame we get when we do something wrong. Acknowledge that the society and type of home our parents choose to raise us in greatly affects our moral values as functioning adults but it is difficult to deny the innate awareness we have of what is right and what is wrong.

   • 4

     Present the stories of the Bible to the atheist and show Jesus Christ's words in the New Testament of forgiveness and love. An atheist may think of the Bible as little more than a storybook but show the atheist your strong belief and faith in the Bible as the true word of God anyway. Persuade the atheist to come with you to a non-denominational church service that is open and informative so he can learn more.

Tips &- Warnings

• Don't present the evidence for your case in a threatening or accusatory way. Telling an atheist he may reside in hell one day for rejecting Christianity won't persuade him at all to your beliefs. In fact, he may reject them completely. Explain your faith in a gentle and non-threatening way that shows him you truly care about his soul and not that you're passing judgment or just trying to win an argument.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: supreme being, persuade atheist, right wrong, Acknowledge that, atheist become, atheist become christian, become christian

Ball gown styles of the 1790s

It's interesting:
"Oh. Is there a wedding going on? .... You may never see a wedding like this one again … not now that they've banned multi-buys on supermarket booze. ..."

The second half of the 18th century began with fashion trends that were fantastically extravagant. Ball gowns boasted massive, multi-layered skirts. Humongous panniers, up to 15 feet in circumference, made the skirt jut straight out over the lady's hips. Nearly every inch of fabric was decorated with frills and ribbons. By the time the 18th century drew to a close, women were exhausted by these ridiculously impractical dresses and were turning toward simplicity.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. End of the 1780s

   • A fichu is a folded scarf worn to accentuate the breasts.

     By the end of the 1780s, women had discarded the unwieldy panniers, that created so unnatural a silhouette, and replaced them with bustles to accentuating their rear ends, and fichus to draw attention to their bosoms. Ornamentation was not as lavish as it had been a decade ago, but women still laced themselves tightly into whalebone corsets and wore ball gowns with fitted bodices and full skirts. Marie Antoinette loved to wear white, and this drove gaudy colors out of style in favor of white and pale pastels.

   Early 1790s

   • Throughout the 18th century, America based its fashion on European styles, and Europe took its fashion cues from France. During the first several years of the 1790s, France was embroiled in a revolution that brought fashion development to a standstill. Ball gowns remained the same as at the end of the 1780s.

   Middle 1790s

   • Beginning in 1794, ball gowns received a complete makeover. Tight bodices were replaced with empire waists and breezy, flowing skirts. Ball gowns were floor-length and often included a short train, sometimes of a contrasting color. Women no longer wore contraptions to alter the shape of their skirts, but gowns were designed with only a few gathers in the front and many gathers in the back. This made the fabric flow down straight in the front and puff out behind. White was still the most popular color. Ribbons, lace, fake flowers and dainty embroidery were used for ornamentation.

   Turn of the Century

   • Empire waists became as high as possible. Women began to show off more skin, so ball gowns had short, puffy sleeves and low-cut decolletages, sometimes heart-shaped. Ladies pushed up their breasts with corsets to reveal as much cleavage as possible. This style continued into the Regency era and is elegantly portrayed in many movie adaptations of Jane Austen novels.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: 18th century, ball gowns, Ball gowns, Ball gown, Ball gown styles

Hotels in waialee, hawaii

It's interesting:
"I think you'll all agree that it's been a wonderful wedding so far. ... But I never received a formal invitation to the wedding, so I just hope I haven't eaten a meal ..."

Waialee, Hawaii, is on the North Shore of Oahu. The area is home to miles of white sand beaches. Although there are no hotels in Waialee itself, many hotels are available in the area. Activities in the Waialee area include golfing at Kulima Golf Course. Local beaches include Sunset Beach and Kawela Bay Park. The University of Hawaii Agricultural Department is in Waialee on the coast of Oahu.

1. Turtle Bay Resort

   • The Turtle Bay Resort in Sunset Beach is five miles from Waialee. It offers 442 guestrooms on six floors. Every guestroom has a direct ocean view. The resort also offers the option of a private, oceanfront cottage complete with butler services. The resort has six onsite restaurants including Palm Terrace, which offers five-course meals, and 21 Degrees North, with a full menu for families. The resort has 12 miles of hiking trails. Activities include kayaking and surfing. Helicopter tours are available.

   Tiki Moon Villas

   • Tiki Moon Villas, located a few miles west of Waialee, are on the coast of Oahu. The hotel is next to the Kulima Golf Course. Room prices start at $165, as of early 2011. Four room types are available and can accommodate up to seven. Each room has a full kitchen.

   Hanalei Bay Resort

   • Hanalei Bay Resort is a 20-minute drive from Waialee along the shore in Princeville. Situated on more than 20 acres, it is a 10 minutes walk from the resort to the white sand beaches. Rooms start at $350 a night, as of January 2011. Hanalei Bay Resort offers a lagoon pool, golf discounts, The Happy Talk Lounge and eight tennis courts. The resort is a five-minute walk from the Princeville shopping center.

   Mahaka Resort and Golf Club

   • The Mahaka Resort and Golf Club, 20 miles from Waialee, is located on the Leeward coast of Oahu in the Mahaka Valley. The resort is spread out over 300 acres. Each air-conditioned room or suite features views of the golf course, mountains or ocean. Rooms have a private lanai, coffee maker, television and bathroom. Adjoining rooms, smoking rooms and suites are available. The resort is able to handle receptions of up to 2,200 guests. The Mahaka Resort also features a sports court for racquetball, volleyball, basketball and badminton. The hotel is near attractions such as Paradise Cove and Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: coast Oahu, from Waialee, Hanalei Resort, Mahaka Resort, Golf Club, Golf Course, Hotels waialee

The etiquette for addressing wedding invitations

It's interesting:
"But fortunately Giles recovered from his stag do and made it to the wedding today … + Add to clipboard. 11-Feb-201It's been a great week for the groom."

Although traditional etiquette has evolved over time, there are still certain guidelines that apply to addressing guests in wedding invitations. Addressing people properly will give the impression that you have taken the time to regard your guests with common courtesy and that your behaviors are kind and respectable.

1. Single Guests

   • Address unmarried women with "Miss." "Mrs." applies to married women who have taken their husband's last name. "Ms." is used in the case where the marital status of the individual is unknown. For a divorced woman who uses her maiden name, address her as "Miss" or "Ms." For a divorced woman who uses her married name, address her as "Mrs." If you expect the invitation to include one other guest, include "and guest" after the proper style of address.

   Children

   • Address children under the age of 18 in the invitation card only by their first name, in the order of the oldest to the youngest. You do not have to address them on the outer envelop because children under 18 would be accompanied by other adults in the family. If the children are over the age of 18, send them separate invitations and address them as "Mr." or "Miss," even if they are still living with their parents.

   Couples

   • For married couples, address them as "Mr." and "Mrs." with his last name. If the couple is married and the wife retains her maiden name, address them also as "Mr." and "Mrs." Address the wife with her maiden name instead of his last name. To address an unmarried couple living separately, address him as "Mr." and her as "Miss" or "Ms." For an unmarried couple living together, address her as "Miss" or "Ms." and him as "Mr." Arrange the name order alphabetically by their last name. For a same gender couple, address them as "Mr." separately. If the same gender couple is female, address them as "Miss" or "Ms." with their individual last name.

   Judge and Doctors

   • When addressing a judge, use "The Honorable" on the envelop and "Judge" in the invitation card. Address a medical doctor as "Doctor" and a Ph.D. recipient as "Dr." When both invitees are doctors, use "Doctors" before their name. When only the female is a doctor, address her as "Doctor" and him as "Mr."

   Military Officers

   • When addressing a male officer, whether he is active or retired, use his title. For instance, address the Admiral and his wife as "Admiral and Mrs. Thad Allen." If addressing a female officer, use her title and then address him separately. An example would be "Colonel Oveta Culp Hobby and Mr. William Hobby."

     Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations. Initials are acceptable if you do not know a guest's given name. Write out the address in full. This applies to the street numbers, the cities and the states.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: address them, last name, name address, address Miss, maiden name, wedding invitations

How to camp near delavan wisconsin

camp near delavan, wisconsin

It's interesting:
"Tom looks great on his wedding day doesn't he? I won't say it's funny to see ... Congratulations to Tom and Susan on their wedding. And since it's election week ..."

Delavan, Wisconsin -- a small town in the southeastern portion of the state -- is located southwest of Milwaukee and northwest of Chicago. Nearby camping options include several Wisconsin State Parks such as Kettle Moraine and Bong Recreation Area. Swimming on Lake Delavan is available as is RV and tent camping at Snug Harbor inside the city limits. Southeastern Wisconsin is not a remote area so campers can choose the type of camping experience they want. You can relax inside a campground, add adventure with a canoe, hiking, or fishing outing, or just swim in one of the area's lakes.

Things You'll Need

• Tent
• RV
• Car
• Swimming trunks
• Flashlights
• Camping Stove
• Matches
• Grill
• Camp chairs
• Sleeping bags
• Computer
• Mosquito spray
• Knife
• Skillet

Instructions

1. • 1

     Decide which campground near Delavan is best for you. The only campground in the town is called Snug Harbor. It is an RV park with some tent sites situated on a lake. Since kids typically love to swim and fish, a lake and a beach is all they need to keep them occupied. This campground may bore others who want more adventure, however. South Kettle Moraine State Forest and Bong Recreation are both close by and have more outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and bird-watching. If relaxing on a beach at a campground is what you are looking for then Snug Harbor may be all you need. If you want to explore a little more, however, then consider other options.

   • 2

     Define the meaning of "near." If you want to camp near Delavan -- and near to you is within 15 minutes -- then Snug Harbor will be your only option. If near to you means a three hour drive then this opens up a number of possibilities. South Kettle Moraine State Forest and Bong Recreation areas are within a half hour of Delavan. Devil's Lake State Park north of Madison has been rated one of the best family campgrounds in the country and is only two hours away. There is also North Kettle Moraine State Forest north of Milwaukee and Lake Kegonsa south of Madison, all within an hour's drive.

   • 3

     Enjoy the outdoors and do as much as possible. Activities that go hand in hand with camping abound near Delavan, Wisconsin. The 1,100 mile Ice Age Trail passes very close to Delavan and goes through South Kettle Moraine. Take advantage of swimming and fishing opportunities at local lakes like Lake Delavan, Lake Geneva, Lake Kegonsa, Devil's Lake and Whitewater Lake. You can also canoe on the Sugar, Wisconsin and Pecatonica Rivers. Get out the binoculars and spot Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons and many other birds at the lakes, rivers and forests in the area.

Tips &- Warnings

• To make the most of your experience, camp out in a tent and cook meals over an open fire or with a camp stove as opposed to eating out.

• Make a reservation when you decide where you want to camp. If you are going over a weekday then there is probably no need to call for reservations. If you want to camp over a busy holiday weekend like the Fourth of July, however, call ahead for a reservation as soon as possible.

• Be sure to bring mosquito spray as the bug situation near Delavan can be problematic, especially in the summer.

• Make sure young kids wear PDFs when swimming and make sure they are properly supervised. Most Wisconsin State Parks do not have lifeguards.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Kettle Moraine, Snug Harbor, Bong Recreation, camp near, Kettle Moraine State, Moraine State

How to get to know german wedding traditions

get to know german wedding traditions

It's interesting:
"It was 48 hours before the wedding and I had zero best man speech made. 2 hours after I found your site I had logged off with an excellent speech.' Luke Betts ..."

The German culture is rich in history and tradition. The German people generally have tight family ties and deep roots. Nowhere is this devotion to German heritage more evident than in the custom of German wedding traditions. Follow these tips to find easy ways to learn about German wedding traditions.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Organize your search. Wedding traditions, as a whole, is a rather broad topic- narrowing down your area of interest will help you find material that is pertinent to what you want to know. If you are looking for historical or medieval traditions that are no longer practiced or current traditions that you want to try to recreate in your own ceremony, focus on these key areas when looking for information to save you time and energy in your search.

   • 2

     Ask around. If you have relatives or acquaintances of German heritage, use these people as a source of knowledge. Ask them if you can discuss wedding traditions in their native country. Also, it may add to the quality of your research to find an individual that has actually participated in some of these marriage rituals and get their perspective on how German traditions differ from those of American weddings.

   • 3

     Use the Internet. Take advantage of Web sites from around the world that will offer you different perspectives on German wedding traditions and also allow you to compare these traditions to other wedding ceremonies from all corners of the globe. It may be helpful to you to search for Web sites that originate in Germany that have been translated into English. Sites like these can be found by specifying that you want German pages when typing information into online search engines or looking for Web sites whose addresses end in, "-.eu"- or "-.ge-"- these Web sites will have originated in Europe or Germany.

   • 4

     Remember the "-old school"- resources. In an age of information when we can find just about everything we want to know online at our fingertips, it's easy to forget that libraries and schools can be great sources of knowledge. With a historical topic like German wedding traditions, there are likely to be many older publications that will contain information that will prove relevant to your search that may not have made it to online publication yet. Most librarians will be happy to help you focus your search and find exactly what you're seeking.

   • 5

     Go back to school. All colleges and universities have language departments with very knowledgeable professors. If you live near one of these institutions, contact the faculty office to find out contact information and inquire about interviewing them. Most language instructors at this level will either be natives of the country they are teaching about or will have at least spent a significant amount of time in the country. Interviewing one of these individuals who has personal knowledge of Germany as either a native or a temporary resident will give your research a firsthand account of German wedding traditions and the religious aspects of the country.

   • 6

     Experience it for yourself. Realistically, not everyone who is interested in learning about cultures of other countries has the time or resources to be able to actually visit the country itself to experience the culture firsthand. But if at all possible, international culture should be experienced. If you have any opportunity to see Germany for yourself and experience their wedding traditions in addition to the rest of their rich and vibrant culture, go!

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding traditions, German wedding, German wedding traditions, your search, quot- quot-, that will

Popular bridesmaid hairstyles

It's interesting:
"Linda and I first met about 18 months ago, when it quickly became clear to me that here was a woman of many attributes - beauty, brains, wisdom and, fortunately for Paul, a disarming love for dumb animals."

A bride may allow her bridesmaids to pick a popular hairstyle to sport on the wedding day, or she may select specific looks for each bridesmaid. Some brides prefer to get the same hairstyle as the bridesmaids, while others wish to stand out. If allowed to pick between any of the popular hairstyles available, a bridesmaid should take into consideration her dress style, face shape and the wedding theme. The perfect wedding hairstyle complements all of these.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Down

   • Allow the hair to hang down without any pinning or excessive styling. Hair can be straight or curled with a curling iron or hot rollers. Naturally curly hair or permed hair can be gelled or treated with a product that prevents frizz. Long hair looks best for this hairstyle, but bridesmaids with short hair can easily achieve this look, since an updo is not an option. This choice for bridesmaids is inexpensive to style, as it can be done by the bridesmaid instead of a professional. The bride may prefer that each bridesmaid keep her hair down, so that the bride can get a fancy updo to further stand out.

   Bun

   • A bun is a popular look among bridesmaid hairstyles. The bun should be placed low on the back of the head. The hair can be styled loose or tightly pinned. Either option creates a simple, timeless look. The simplicity of this style helps keep the attention on the bride who may have a more elaborate hairstyle. A bun works well with any face shape or bridesmaid dress style. If the wedding is during a warm season or takes place outside, this hairdo is preferred, as it keeps the hair off of the neck and out of the face.

   Ponytail

   • The classic ponytail remains popular for styling a bridesmaid's hair for a wedding. It does not have to look like the bridesmaid just woke up and threw in a ponytail. The ponytail can be styled with curls or straightened. For a soft, yet sleek look, creams can be used. For a more shapely look, bobby pins can be added to the ponytail. The hair at the base of the scalp can be parted, slicked back or teased prior to putting the ponytail into place. Tie the ponytail with a plain or decorative hair tie. If you use a plain hair tie, try to match it to the hair color. Decorative hair ties can be embellished with beads, crystals, pearls, flowers, lace or feathers.

   Updo

   • An updo is very popular among bridesmaids and brides when it comes to selecting a wedding hairstyle. For this style, all of half of the hair can be pinned up. Either way, it is pulled away from the face, keeping bridesmaids cool and free of having to fix the hair. This style cannot be achieved by those with very short hair, but a medium or long-length of hair is ideal. There are many options when it comes to updos. Additions to an updo include a French twist, curls, braids, twists and even knots. It is best to have a specific updo style in mind and bring a photo of it to the stylist.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bridesmaid hairstyles, dress style, each bridesmaid, face shape, hairstyle bridesmaids

Wedding planning: colors

It's interesting:
"You know, I’ve been to lots of great weddings, but today may have been the best. The small, ornate chapel – the beautiful music – the sincere words that Paul and Linda wrote themselves. Ladies and gentlemen, we all witnessed something very special."

When couples choose their color combinations, they often consider the season, their reception location and their bridesmaids' skin tones before making a final decision. Couples use the colors predominantly with the bridesmaid dresses and the flowers but may sprinkle dashes of color throughout the wedding day.

1. Choosing Wedding Colors

   • Choose a neutral reception site with a main color of gold or beige that can be complemented with several other colors. Although certain seasons such as autumn suggest colors including gold, orange and red--and spring leans toward hues such as pinks, lavenders and baby blues--couples can make their favorite combination work in any season. If a couple love the color red and have dreamed of a summer wedding, they can consider pairing it with white for a softer approach--and they will have endless possibilities for flowers. If they need assistance selecting an exact shade of red, the Knot suggests looking at a color wheel or fabric swatches of a bridal designer to choose whether they want cherry red, wine red, or claret. Couples should also consider their bridesmaids' skin tone when selecting colors. If their friends are cool-toned with olive skin, reds, dark pinks, and navy blues will flatter them. If they have darker or ivory skin, oranges, browns, and peaches will look stunning on them.

   Using Wedding Colors: Attire and Ceremony

   • Highlight wedding colors throughout the attire, especially the bridesmaid dresses- however some brides are selecting gowns with colored sashes, bodices or trains. The groomsmen's vests should also incorporate the wedding colors and match the bridesmaid dresses as close as possible.
     

     When selecting wedding party flowers, the bride should select blooms that complement her dress and her bridesmaids' dresses. If she selects a red and white combination, she may combine red and white roses and white lilies for the bouquets, as they are all in-season flowers and accent the colors beautifully. If the men are in black tuxes, a simple rose boutonniè-re looks elegant and complements the look. If the wedding is outdoors, the couple may use the flowers in the garden to add to the beauty. However, if it is a church wedding, have the florist prepare a few altar arrangements with roses, lilies and sprigs of greenery.

   Using Wedding Colors: Reception

   • Utilize color options at reception sites. Most of them provide the couple with linens and choice of colored napkins, so the couple may accent in their preferred color. For chair covers, have the staff tie a colored organza bow around each one.
     

     When selecting the centerpieces for each table, couples should choose blooms that highlight their colors and complement the elegance of their wedding. Simple arrangements with roses, greenery and lilies in tall Eiffel tower vases are nice.
     

     If the florist and the cake maker work together, the wedding cake can be a beautiful masterpiece. Couples can have it decorated in their wedding colors and have real flower petals placed on it as a finishing touch.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding colors, Wedding Colors, arrangements with, arrangements with roses, blooms that

Hawaiian wedding soup

It's interesting:
"I remember the last wedding I went to. It was in the function room of the Tate Gallery. The groom got plastered and ended up with red wine, gravy ..."

The census bureau in 2007 reported the largest ethnic group living in Hawaii, 39.9 percent, are of Asian decent. For centuries, shark fin soup has been a traditional delicacy influenced by Asian culture. Residents and visitors to Hawaii, in the past have celebrated the ancient tradition of serving shark fin soup at weddings. Shark fin soup is now being banned in Hawaii due to questions of humane treatment of sharks for human consumption. As of July 1, 2010, shark fin soup, or "Wedding Soup" was no longer served in public restaurants, sold by retailers or offered by caterers in Hawaii.

1. Significance

   • Endangered sharks are threatened.

     Activists, such as WildAid, have insisted that shark fin soup promotes cruelty to animals. Over 70 million sharks are harvested annually. Because of slow maturity rates of sharks, small birth numbers and overfishing, this wedding tradition could cause some species of sharks to become extinct. Without sharks, the entire ecosystem will suffer.

   Tradition

   • The history of shark fin soup began during the Ming Dynasty in China. Shark fin soup was considered a "good luck" delicacy to be shared during special events, such as weddings. Shark fins are said to have aphrodisiac powers, and because shark fin soup is expensive and a rarity, serving this soup at a wedding was considered a symbol of wealth, prosperity and virility. The opposite is true. Shark fin soup is loaded with salt, and the shark fins may contain unsafe amounts of mercury as well as cause impotency.

   What is "Finning"?

   • "Finning" takes place when the dorsal and pectoral fins are removed from a live shark. The rest of the shark is then removed from the boat and thrown back into the water. Pectoral fins keep the shark from sinking, while dorsal fins provide stability. In some species, the dorsal fin is attached to the spine. The shark is left to die a slow and inhumane death.

   Alternatives

   • With the ban in place, couples marrying in Hawaii may choose to serve a seafood-based soup with ingredients such as sea cucumber or scallops, instead of shark fin. According to the Honolulu Advisor, David Chui, manager of Legends Seafood Restaurant in Honolulu, suggested substituting shark fin soup "with winter melon soup and chicken with white fungus soup."

   Synthetic Shark Fin

   • Synthetic shark fin meat may also be utilized, although the flavor may not be exactly the same as the real thing. The flavor is determined by the other ingredients in the thick soup. Other ingredients may include: chicken broth, mushrooms and bean starch vermicelli, commonly known as "cellophane noodles."

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: shark soup, Hawaiian wedding, Hawaiian wedding soup, removed from, shark soup, some species

How to schedule events at a wedding

schedule events at a wedding

It's interesting:
"Linda is an extraordinary woman. Resilient and fun-loving. If anyone had told me Paul would find a woman who loves gourmet cooking, travelling to exotic places and debating the merits of the Arsenal back four as much as him, I wouldn't have believed them. Yet here she is. You two are going to have quite a life together. "

You are engaged -- congratulations! Now comes the fun, although difficult, part of planning the wedding and all the events that go with it. Regardless of the size of the wedding, scheduling the wedding events can be a challenge to ensure that the needs of your guests and your own needs are met. Making a definitive decision about which events you want to plan as well as your preferences related to these events will help to keep the event organized and reduce the stress you may feel about your big day.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Schedule the time and duration of your wedding first. All other events must center around the wedding ceremony itself because it is the main event. Determine what time of day you prefer to have your wedding -- afternoon or evening is customary -- and make the necessary arrangements.

   • 2

     Identify the type of reception you want to have and schedule it 30 minutes to 1 hour after the conclusion of the ceremony. This allows time for travel if the wedding and reception are in two different locations. It also provides time for photos or any necessary setup time the event staff may need. For example, if your wedding ceremony is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. and conclude at 6:00 p.m., schedule your reception for 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.

   • 3

     Plan for dinner or your intended meal to start approximately 30 minutes after the scheduled start of the reception. You will need a slight delay in the start of the meal to allow your guests time to find their seats. The event or catering staff may also need this time to finish last minute details and complete their preparations for meal service.

   • 4

     Coordinate your rehearsal dinner for the day or evening prior to the wedding. Depending on the size of your party, you may need to reserve a private or semi-private room for your dinner. However, depending on the size of the restaurant, it may only require a reservation to seat you in the main dining area.

   • 5

     Determine the best date for your bachelor or bachelorette parties. Some people like to schedule them the night before the wedding. However, to ensure that all wedding party guests arrive on time and have recovered from the party's festivities, consider scheduling these parties one to two months in advance of the wedding.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, ensure that, events wedding, schedule events, schedule events wedding, wedding ceremony, wedding events

How to make your own wedding topper

make your own wedding topper

It's interesting:
"They say that a wedding is a sapling that grows into a mighty tree called marriage . Well ... In a way, the jubilation of today's wedding reminds me of the recent ...""

Making your own cake topper not only saves money, but allows you to create a meaningful keepsake from your wedding. It also is a great way to get your groom, bridesmaids or flower girl involved in your big day. Making your own cake topper means your cake can be as personal and unique as you want it to be.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• Crystals
• Craft glue
• Paint
• Wooden figurines
• Birds and birds nests

Instructions

1. • 1

     Order monogrammed letters, your first initial and your groom's first initial, from the Wedding Cuts website. You also can print out enlarged letters from your computer, cutting them out with an X-Acto knife and tracing them onto cardboard. Order crystals in your wedding colors and apply them to the cardboard letters using craft glue.

   • 2

     Order a DIY wooden bride and groom cake topper kit. The kits usually come with a wooden bride and groom, paint kit, paintbrushes and varnish. Paint the bride and groom with appropriate hair colors and clothing colors and then coat them with varnish. You also can buy your own paint set and wooden figurines at a local craft store.

   • 3

     Use edible flowers to create a floral masterpiece on top of your cake. You can use What's Cooking America as a resource on which flowers are edible. While you can use nonedible flowers on your cake, make sure pesticides or chemicals have not been used at any point in the growing process. Also make sure not to serve the flowers to your guests with the cake.

   • 4

     Purchase a tiny bird's nest and two Styrofoam birds from your local craft store. You also can purchase small flowers. Using craft glue or a glue gun, glue the birds and flowers into the nest to create a "Lovebirds" cake topper.

   • 5

     Use mementos that mean a lot to you and your groom. For example, small framed childhood photos could make a simple but unique cake topper. If you love to play golf together, use golf tees and gold balls as a cake topper. Or, top your cake with a favorite book, a set of paintbrushes if you love art or a set of teacups if you love having coffee or tea together.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: cake topper, your cake, your wedding, bride groom, from your, your groom

Seasonal wedding colors

It's interesting:
"It's a shame, given this is a winter wedding, that the minister wouldn't let Paul and Linda have the pantomime theme wedding they originally wanted. Looking at Paul, I think ‘Puss in Boots’ would have been very appropriate."

The smallest touches of spring dew, sun-kissed crests of beach waves, the smell of pumpkin pie cooling in the window sill and the crisp cool air over a snow-covered meadow can bring ideas of color schemes for any nuptial celebration. Climates that cooperate lend such suggestions to appropriate seasonal wedding colors. When you are planning the wedding of a lifetime, choose shades that compliment the signs of nature that contribute to the day's beauty.

1. Spring Wedding Colors

   • Pastels are common color choices for spring weddings, although if the marital theme contains a more modern, bold feel, consider using a sassy shade of purple with a light hue of green. Bouquets and centerpieces accented with bold pink tulips and white lilies pay tribute to the spring season, while baby blue and olive green shades acknowledge the budding season, bringing forth a more casual feel.

   Summer Wedding Colors

   • Many brides think of the beach when planning a summer wedding, thus creating a color scheme of beige, blue and white. Summer flowers such as daisies, calla lilies and asters can contribute to a wedding through shades of white and off-white, purple and yellow. Green is a color readily seen during the summer months and can be easily incorporated into the wedding decor.

   Autumn Wedding Colors

   • During the months of October and November, the colors of autumn surround many areas of the nation. Fall wedding color schemes often include a shade of brown paired with peach, red, ivory and yellow hues. Consider bringing the color in from outside by including nature's gifts in the guest table centerpieces, such as a pumpkin and apple basket or a floral arrangement containing bare branches adorned with transparent colored beads and colorful leaves.

   Winter Wedding Colors

   • The winter holiday can also be celebrated along with the gift of vows. Vibrant red and deep forest green are obvious choices for wedding colors, but those not so apparent may include ice blue and white, ivory and frosty brown. Perhaps choosing a silver, black and white color scheme for an elegant touch to the decor is your preferred style. When sticking with pale color choices, include a pop of color such as a poinsettia centerpiece to liven the wedding mood.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: blue white, color choices, color scheme, color schemes, Seasonal wedding, Seasonal wedding colors

Places to have a 1-year-old's birthday party in la grange, illinois

It's interesting:
"It was 48 hours before the wedding and I had zero best man speech made. 2 hours ... You can find speech material to suit any style of wedding. It blends the ..."

Your baby's first birthday is a special occasion for both parent and child. Many parents celebrate the big day with a party and invite family and friends. One-year-old children are not exactly party animals though, so plan your party appropriately. There are many venues for residents of La Grange, Illinois, to host their baby's first birthday.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Denning Park

   • For children with birthdays in the warmer months, consider a party in a park. A park offers plenty of room for parents and children to relax and play. Denning Park is part of the La Grange Park District. It is located on South Gilbert, just west of La Grange Country Club. The park features a covered picnic shelter, playground, barbeque grills and its own parking lot. Reservations are required for the picnic shelter and rental fees will apply. As of 2010, the rental fee is $10 per hour for Park District residents and $20 per hour for nonresidents.

     Park District of La Grange

     536 East Ave.

     La Grange, IL 60525

     708-352-1762

     pdlg.org

   Blueberry Hill Restaurant

   • Hosting a breakfast or brunch party at a restaurant is a practical choice for your child's first birthday, especially if the celebration will be small and include mostly adults. Grandparents and close friends can share a meal and conversation at a restaurant get together. Blueberry Hill Restaurant is a pancake house serving breakfast, brunch and lunch. Celebrating your baby's birthday early in the day will avoid stress and discomfort from missed naps or meal times. Menu items include pancakes, crepes, omelets, soups and sandwiches, all served in a family atmosphere.

     Blueberry Hill Breakfast Cafe

     49 S. LaGrange Rd.

     LaGrange, Illinois

     708-352-4900

     blueberrybreakfastcafe.com

   Brookfield Zoo

   • The Brookfield Zoo is just two miles from La Grange, in Brookfield, Illinois. A birthday party at the zoo provides its own entertainment. Both kids and adults will enjoy spending the day with the animals. Brookfield Zoo offers party packages for a minimum of twenty guests. The package includes admission tickets, free parking, a buffet lunch and party favors. The zoo is open seven days a week, year round, with hours that vary by the season.

     Brookfield Zoo

     Chicago Zoological Society

     3300 Golf Rd.

     Brookfield , IL 60513

     800-201-0784

     czs.org

   The Little Gym

   • Babies and toddlers love to be active. A birthday party at a gym will give the little ones a chance to burn off excess energy and exercise their growing muscles. The Little Gym is located ten miles from La Grange in Evergreen Park, Illinois. At a Little Gym party, guests will have sole use of the facility. A qualified staff member will lead the little party goers in age appropriate games and activities. Dates fill up fast, so book your party well in advance.

     The Little Gym of Evergreen Park

     2851-57 West 95th St.

     Evergreen Park, IL 60805

     708-576-8675

     thelittlegym.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: birthday party, Blueberry Hill, Evergreen Park, first birthday, Park District, baby first, baby first birthday

How to make your wedding guests feel welcome

make your wedding guests feel welcome

It's interesting:
"Extended anecdotes at a wedding are like a porn star's professional pride and joy; long, hard and difficult to swallow. There are, of course, exceptions; tales so ..."

Your wedding is a day that you and your spouse will remember for the rest of your lives. While the day is all about you two, you should not forget about your guests. Some of your guests likely traveled a great distance to congratulate you on your special day. Make them feel welcome at your event from beginning to end.

Things You'll Need

• Folders
• Letter
• Information
• Gift baskets
• Seating
• Favors

Instructions

1. • 1

     Make welcome packets for your guests, if you have many who will be coming from out of town. You likely reserved a block of rooms at a hotel so your guests could stay in the same vicinity for a reduced rate, so arrange with the hotel management to give your guests the packets when they arrive. Include a welcoming letter from you and your intended, a map of the area, a list of wedding activities, times and information, and a list of things to do in the area. Add menus from your favorite local restaurants.

   • 2

     Create welcoming gift baskets for your guests to receive when they arrive at the hotel. Use baskets or canvas bags for the gifts, and include all of the information you would put in a welcoming packet. Add bottles of water, wine and snacks. Include something significant to the area in which you are getting married. For example, if you are getting married in New Orleans, add a bottle of hot sauce.

   • 3

     Rent enough chairs. This might seem obvious, especially if you are having a seated dinner reception, but giving them a place to rest will show your guests that you thought about them when you planned the event. If you are throwing a cocktail reception where your guests will likely be moving around, make sure that you have seats for at least 75 percent of them.

   • 4

     Speak to each of your guests at least once at the wedding reception. Some brides and grooms opt to do this through a receiving line, while others prefer to simply walk around the space and visit with the people sitting at each table or in each area. Your guests have made an effort to come to your wedding, so acknowledging them personally is important.

   • 5

     Give your guests favors they can take home. Choose personalized drink holders with your names and the wedding date on them, or something edible, such as a frosted sugar cookie.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your guests, your guests, feel welcome, from your, getting married, guests feel