Bachelorette party ideas in tampa, florida

It's interesting:
"Paul is caring, he's generous, he's sensitive… in fact I don't even know him anymore. Linda has changed my best friend. Actually, I should thank you Linda. You've done in 18 months what I couldn't do in 18 years."

Before the biggest day of her life, a bride needs to have the biggest night of her life. Tampa, Florida, has some wonderful ways for a bachelorette to spend her last night out with the girls as a free woman. So whether you're planning for your own event, or helping your friends end their single life with a bang, you have relaxing to wild opportunities in Tampa.

1. Adult Themes

   • No list of bachelorette party ideas would be complete without something a little risque. However, you don't have to do anything risky or sexually explicit. You might decide to hire an exotic entertainer for the evening, or you could just rent a hotel room and play cute, sexy games.

     If you choose to hire an entertainer, you need to supply the room, the audience, tip money and a party attitude. Tampa Hard Bodies supply entertainers, both male and female, to make your evening unforgettable. They'll even perform at a local venue if you get the appropriate approval from the owners.

   Spa Weekend

   • A trip to the spa for you and your girlfriends might be just what you need before tying the knot. In the Tampa area, a lot of fine establishments offer spa services and packages. Clearwater Hotels in Safety Harbor is approximately 30 minutes away from Tampa and offers a "Spirit of the Spring," Spa and Fitness" and a "Safety Harbor Tennis" package where you and your bridal party can unwind.

     From facials and massages to Pilates and unlimited tennis, a spa weekend makes for a memorable bachelorette party.

   Night Clubbing

   • Before jumping the broom, consider having one last night of partying. You and your bridal party, or even a co-ed group of friends, can rent a limousine to take you from dinner to dancing to the hottest after-party spots in and around Tampa.

     Taking the time to hire a car service prevents you from having to call one at the end of the night and it keeps you and your party safe. A1 Tampa Limo has a wide selection of vehicles, from party buses to stretched pink Hummers that are claimed to be perfect for bachelorette outings. If you like the company's service, consider reserving a limo for your wedding day.

     In Tampa, you have an eclectic selection of hot spots from which to choose. Club Prana on Seventh Avenue in Ybor City is built on five levels. Each level has its' own aesthetic style and music genre.

   Games

   • No matter where you hold your bachelorette party, you can spice up the event with a selection of games. Widely available at party stores and on the Internet, bachelorette party games range from mild to wild, with wedding-themed charades and pin the tail on the donkey with an adult twist.

     Todd Couples Superstore in Tampa makes shopping for bachelorette party games easy and fun. The store also has a range of costumes, accessories, novelties and party supplies geared toward providing a rowdy night on the town.

     Some games for your last night out involve completing dares, such as the "Bachelorette Shirt" seen on "Sex in the City" and showcased on the Bachelorette Party Fun website.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bachelorette party, last night, party ideas, bachelorette party games, Bachelorette party ideas

Wedding invitation etiquette: return address on envelopes

It's interesting:
"All the material you need to win laughs and touch hearts. Our interactive page will guide you step-by-step as you create an extraordinary speech that uniquely ..."

The wedding invitation is the first impression guests will have of your wedding, signaling the degree of formality of the occasion. If you will be sending formal wedding invitations, some knowledge of correspondence etiquette is required. Understand the details and importance of the return address on your formal wedding invitation for a polite and proper invitation to your upcoming marriage.

1. History

   • Wedding invitations were traditionally hand delivered and given to the footman, who removed the inner envelope containing the invitation from its mailing envelope to present it to the recipients. This tradition continues today, though invitations are now sent by mail. Formal wedding invitations still contain two envelopes, an invitation and any additional stationary, such as RSVP cards.

   Function

   • The return address for the invitations should be of the people who are issuing the wedding invitation. In most cases, this would be the bride's parents, though it is becoming more common for the couple themselves to issue the invitation. In addition, gifts are frequently sent to the return address on the wedding invitation. If you would like for the gifts to be sent to your home, it may be wise to use your home address rather than your parents' as the return address on the invitation.

   Format

   • Choose the format you prefer for your return address. The most common, and most formal, option is to leave off names and print only the address. If you wish, you can add names as well. In any case, write out all words in full, without abbreviations. For example, the address should read "Street" instead of "St." and "Apartment" rather than "Apt."

   Location

   • Write or engrave the return address on the back flap of the mailing envelope. Do not write the return address on the top lefthand corner of the front side of the envelope, as is customary with informal correspondence.

   Style

   • Calligraphy is a common choice for addressing wedding invitations, but if your handwriting is beautiful and legible, this is also acceptable. Embossing or engraving is another option, especially if you will be sending out a large quantity of invitations. Never use adhesive labels for return addresses on formal correspondence, as this is in poor taste and extremely informal and impersonal.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: return address, wedding invitation, address envelopes, etiquette return, etiquette return address, formal wedding

How to make a wedding cake with tiers

make a wedding cake with tiers

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 ..."

Whether you've been baking for years, or have limited experience in the kitchen, creating a tiered wedding cake at home can be overwhelming. But with the right tools, you can create tiered or even pillared cakes for any occasion. These techniques focus on support and can be used on round or square-tiered cakes.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 inch wooden dowel rods
• Pair of shears
• Cardboard cake rounds
• Frosting
• Plastic cake pillars and separator plates for pillared cakes (optional)

Instructions

1. • 1

     Begin with your bottom layer and frost with your choice of frosting. Use a cardboard cake separator the same size as the tier to be stacked on top of this cake. Gently place it on top of your bottom layer. Make sure the separator is centered as this will be your guide in the placement of support dowels. Remove the separator for the next step.

   • 2

     Take one of your wooden dowels and push it completely into your bottom layer. Be sure to have the dowels situated within the area of the cardboard separator you used to mark the top of this cake layer. Carefully make a mark on the dowel where it is flush with your cake and remove the dowel.

   • 3

     Cut the marked dowel with your shears and use this dowel as a guide for cutting the rest of your support dowels. Cut six to eight dowels total, depending on how large an area your bottom layer is.

   • 4

     Place your first dowel into your cake and repeat it with the remaining cut dowels making sure they are an equal distance apart in a circular pattern right under where the cake separator will be. Be sure to push the dowels completely into the cake until they are touching your cake board or plate underneath.

   • 5

     Use the same technique for placing rods into your second layer as with the first. But this second layer will be resting on a cardboard cake separator the same size as you used as a guide for the dowels on the bottom layer. You can use fewer rods for this second layer as it's a smaller area. Set this second layer on top of your bottom layer directly over the wooden support dowels.

   • 6

     Set your third and smallest tier on a cake separator. This third layer of your cake will not need dowels placed in it as it will not be supporting anything. You will have a small cake separator between it and the middle layer for added support. Place this top layer gently on your cake. Frost and decorate as usual.

   • 7

     Realize that making a pillared tier cake with space between layers rather than a stacked tier cake changes the procedure slightly. Use wooden dowels on the bottom layer and add the second layer as usual for a stacked tier cake.

   • 8

     Place a plastic pillar separator between the second and third tiers. These can be purchased anywhere cake decorating or wedding supplies are sold and have attachable pillar legs and two pre-made plastic cake separators. Add your top layer and decorate as usual.

Tips &- Warnings

• Make sure you have a solid base under your cake that can handle the weight of extra layers.

• Be sure that each cake layer is level before construction.

• When transporting large or pillared cakes, move them in sections to avoid accidents.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bottom layer, your cake, cake separator, second layer, your bottom, your bottom layer

Inexpensive places to get married in eastern pennsylvania

It's interesting:
"Since meeting Linda, I've seen terrific changes in Paul. He seems much more confident these days. He's surer of what he wants. He's happier, and he's much more willing to bend these days, too. Although he’s still adamant that Arsenal will win the next seasons Champions League."

Footing the bill for any wedding may be overwhelming. According to "Real Simple" magazine, in 2011, a ceremony and reception in Pennsylvania typically costs between $14,200 to $23,400. The average price for a reception location alone ranges from $1,887 to $3,104. Fortunately for cash-strapped brides and grooms in eastern Pennsylvania, there are several affordable places to hold a wedding. Holding the ceremony and reception in the same location will significantly trim the price tag. Though you may need to venture outside Center City, eastern Pennsylvania has hidden bargains for your dream (and inexpensive) wedding.

1. Ukrainian Education and Cultural Center (Jenkintown)

   • Located just outside of Philadelphia in Jenkintown, the Ukrainian Education and Cultural Center has three rooms to host small-, medium- and large-sized weddings. Each room is equipped with an extravagant golden chandelier and a dance floor staged in the middle of the dining area. For a wedding of approximately 175 guests, the cost of a wedding at the UECC is $825 for six hours. A three-hour event is priced at $525.

   A Touch of Class Catering at the Palace (Wilkes-Barre)

   • Formerly known as the Golden Palace, A Touch of Class offers a deal of $39.95 per person that includes cocktails, wedding cake, dinner, drinks and decor. This northeastern Pennsylvanian venue offers a chef and banquet coordinator who will assist the bride and groom in their ceremony by customizing the dinner options to suit your party.

   Knights of Columbus' Council Home Hall (Bangor)

   • Wherever you are located in eastern Pennsylvania, local fraternal organizations serve as cheap venues for wedding receptions. In the Lehigh Valley, the Bangor Knights of Columbus' Council Home Hall is a cost-effective venue for a ceremony. Though decorations, catering and alcohol are not included, this venue comes at a low price of $350 and has potential to be an inexpensive wedding with frugal planning.

   Cliveden of the National Trust (Germantown)

   • The historic site, where the Battle of Germantown was held in 1777, host weddings in the Germantown neighborhood in northwest Philadelphia. Outdoor ceremonies and weddings of eight hours are modestly priced at $1,750. Although tents are needed for parties over 100, this 5.5 acre estate -- now owned by the National Trust -- offers scenic views and contains colonial and African-American historical significance.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: ceremony reception, Columbus Council, Columbus Council Home, Council Home, Council Home Hall, Cultural Center

Suggestions for wedding ceremony music

It's interesting:
"Just as the happy couple wanted, this is a lovely, small, intimate gathering of close friends and family – so could someone please tell me why I’m here. Oh, that’s right, to make a speech, so here goes …"

While most brides think first of the music that will be played at the reception, the music you choose for your ceremony is also important. It tells your guests who you are as a couple. You may want a special music choice to be played or sung during the ceremony. For your walk down the aisle, you can keep it predictable with Pachelbel's Canon or mix things up with a choice that reflects the two of you. Remember to consider prelude, processional, ceremony and recessional music choices.

1. Classical

   • Classical doesn't actually have to be boring. Step away from Pachelbel's Canon, and you'll still find many wonderful choices, such as Monteverdi's beautiful harmonies, Johann Sebastian Bach or Vivaldi. Choosing a classical piece also means a higher likelihood you'll be able to find live musicians for the ceremony. You can choose to have a simple piano solo or have an ensemble create a masterpiece.

   Country and Bluegrass

   • Country and bluegrass may not initially sound like a fit for a romantic wedding ceremony, but you can actually find some beautiful songs, particularly in bluegrass. Look for artists like Alison Krauss or Emmylou Harris, both of whom create delightful bluegrass. Alison Krauss's "When You Say Nothing At All" is a great romantic choice, as are any number of covers by Emmylou Harris, such as "Save the Last Dance For Me." The "O Brother, Where Art Thou" soundtrack also has a number of bluegrass artists, perfect to get you started. "You are My Sunshine" from the soundtrack is a nice, upbeat song choice.

   Swing

   • Put a little swing in that step with east coast or west coast swing. East coast is a bit more relaxed than west coast but both are fun. Look for songs from Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Glenn Miller and Fats Waller, to give you a little inspiration. You could try "Isn't it Romantic" by Ella Fitzgerald or "My Man" by Billie Holiday. Another beautiful choice is Fats Waller's "I've got a Feeling, I'm Falling," which also happens to have been sung by Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald.

   Caribbean

   • If you're having an outdoor summer wedding, getting married on the beach or just want to add a livelier touch to the music, consider using calypso or reggae beats. Take a little time before the wedding to listen to some different styles. While some reggae is better suited to a reception, there are quite a few songs with a gentler tempo, perfect for a walk down the aisle.

   Lyrical

   • If you have a favorite song, consider using it for the processional. Many songs can help create the mood. You could do a fun song and encourage the bridal party to dance down the aisle, as has been proven popular by many recent wedding videos. You could also try a more romantic touch, such as having the doors open to the bride as Etta James "At Last" begins.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: down aisle, Ella Fitzgerald, wedding ceremony, Alison Krauss, Billie Holiday

Hotels near centre island, new york

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."

Centre Island, part of Long Island in New York, is a 605-acre peninsula with four miles of coastline. Centre Island is bordered by Long Island Sound, Cold Spring Harbor and Oyster Bay Harbor. With just over 200 households, the village of Centre Island is the second smallest of Naussau County's 64 villages. There are no hotels in Centre Island, but there are a number of hotels within 10 miles.

1. Tides Motor Inn

   • The Tides Motor Inn, located in Locust Valley, NY, is about 3.3 miles west of Centre Island. The inn has an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a playground, and is close to restaurants, Adventure Park and Ransom Beach. The inn's rooms come with heat and air conditioning, color cable televisions and kitchenettes are available. Popular area activities include fishing, kayaking, boating and canoeing. Pets are not allowed at Tides Motor Inn.

   East Norwich Inn

   • The East Norwich Inn, about 4.2 miles south of Centre Island, is located in East Norwich, NY. The East Norwich Inn has a fitness room, sauna, business center and conference room. Rooms amenities include heat lamps in the bathrooms and cable televisions with HBO. Single rooms, suites and personal apartments are available. The East Norwich Inn is located near the Muttontown Preserve.

   Glen Cove Mansion Hotel and Conference Center

   • Just 5.8 miles from Centre Island, in the town of Glen Cove, is the Glen Cove Mansion Hotel and Conference Center. The 187 room hotel, formerly known as "The Manor," was built in 1910 and sits on 55 acres. Room amenities include Crabtree & Evelyn bath products and high speed Internet access. Hotel amenities include a business center, in-room dining, tennis, an indoor and outdoor pool and in-room massages and spa services, like body scrubs and wraps. Weddings, parties and meetings can be held at the hotel.

   Oheka Castle

   • Oheka Castle, located just 6.3 miles south of Centre Island in Huntington, NY, is a luxurious 32-room hotel located on 23 acres. Guests can take advantage of the high-end Frette bed linens, in-room spa services, an 18-hole golf course and tennis. Oheka Castle was featured in such films as 1941's "Citizen Kane" and 2008's "What Happens in Vegas." Oheka Castle was also the site of Kevin Jonas' 2009 wedding to Danielle Deleasa.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Centre Island, East Norwich, Oheka Castle, amenities include, Centre Island, Glen Cove

Cocktail party dress ideas

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. ..."

A cocktail party dress should make you feel attractive and confident. A cocktail party is a time to mix and mingle, so you will want to look your best. Whether you prefer a classic black dress or something with more color and sparkle, select attire that suits your coloring and figure. A party dress should be appropriate for the occasion. A business cocktail party might call for something a little more conservative than a cocktail party with long-time personal friends.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Little Black Sheath Dress

   • The little black dress is a style staple for cocktail parties and special events. A sheath dress flatters a multitude of figures from the plus-size woman with curves to the woman with an athletic figure. While a black dress is slimming, a refined sheath worn at the knee creates a continuous line from the shoulder to the knees. If you want a cocktail dress that works for all seasons, choose a dress in light-weight wool.

   Strapless Dress with Necklaces

   • If you have a full bust or a hourglass figure, a strapless dress with an A-line skirt will minimize a large bosom while balancing a curvy frame. For the trend-setting woman, accessorize your strapless cocktail dress with edgy plastic necklaces. If you prefer an elegant, classic look, personalize your cocktail dress with three or four strands of pearls. If a lot of shimmer is in order, choose colorful rhinestones or a chunky bib necklace set with large stones and sequins.

   Wrap Cocktail Dress

   • The wrap dress is a waist-whittling wonder that accentuates the curves of a pear-shaped body type by creating the illusion of a small waist. The V-neck of a wrap dress also helps to elongate a curvy body and enhances a small bust. The best fabrics for a wrap dress for cocktail hour include jersey and cotton/rayon blends. Avoid shiny or bulky fabrics that may draw attention to wide hips or a rounder tummy. To create drama, accessorize your wrap dress with shoulder-duster earrings or large rhinestone hoop earrings.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: party dress, wrap dress, black dress, cocktail dress, dress with, accessorize your

Places to hold weddings in lake tahoe, nevada

It's interesting:
"All the material you need to win laughs and touch hearts. Our interactive page will guide you step-by-step as you create an extraordinary speech that uniquely ..."

Weddings in Lake Tahoe offer scenic lakefront and mountain views from an array of ceremony and reception venues. South Tahoe rests near the state line where California and Nevada meet, meaning wedding sites may have California mailing addresses and Nevada locations based on proximity to the state line. A bride and groom may opt to have an outdoor garden or beach wedding during the warm months and a resort, lodge or inn wedding during the winter. Couples may consider incorporating Tahoe activities such as boating and skiing into their wedding plans.

1. Bleu Wave Cruise

   • Bleu Wave provides weddings that tour Lake Tahoe on a 70-foot yacht with luxury features such as a fireplace, party bow, stocked bar and private lounge. Minister services are provided for the wedding ceremony through Dockside Packages. Boat cruise ceremonies and receptions for approximately 50 guests are available year-round through specials such as the Emerald or Ultimate Wedding Packages. Pricing is based on the package chosen, and additional options, such as increased amount of cruise time, menu selections and amenities such as flowers, cake and a wedding coordinator, increase the rate.

     Bleu Wave Cruises
     

     325 Hwy 50
     

     Zephyr Cove, NV 89448
     

     (775) 588-3055
     

     (866) 413-0985
     

     tahoebleuwave.com

   Heavenly Resort

   • Lakeview Lodge, located 2,000 feet above Lake Tahoe at Heavenly Resort in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, provides views and a rustic, wooded atmosphere. Ceremonies and on-site receptions are available for brides and grooms during the summer- Lakeview Lodge operates as a ski lodge throughout the remainder of the year. The venue offers an outdoor ceremony site that overlooks the lake and aerial tram transport to the lodge. Heavenly wedding packages include options of renting the entire facility or using one of the reception areas such as the Observation Deck, Vista Room or Cabin Room. Heavenly Catering provides food and beverage services for Lakeview Lodge receptions, offering menu choices including buffet-style dining, culinary stations or plate dinners. Food pricing varies based on selection, amount of services and chefs required and additional planning provided by the resort.

     Heavenly Mountain Resort
     

     PO Box 2180
     

     Stateline, NV 89449
     

     (800) 842-8062
     

     skiheavenly.com

   Inn by the Lake

   • Inn by the Lake hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions and offers access to El Dorado Beach, outdoor gardens for summer ceremonies and the Event Center for indoor weddings. Inn by the Lake offers a choice of packages and rates. Inn by the Lake provides a list of preferred catering services and on-site lodging options.

     Inn by the Lake
     

     3300 Lake Tahoe Boulevard
     

     South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
     

     (800) 877-1466
     

     innbythelake.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Bleu Wave, Lake Tahoe, Lakeview Lodge, ceremonies receptions, Heavenly Resort

Types of bridal veils

It's interesting:
"There are those who accuse Paul of being unromantic. Well, all I can say, Linda, is that he'll prove them wrong on February 14 when he celebrates Valentine's ..."

Veils are commonly worn by women on their wedding day and hold a sentimental meaning to many women. Originally worn to keep the groom from seeing her face before they were married, veils continue to be a noticeable feature in many weddings. Some women choose to wear a veil simply for fashion purposes. Veils come in a variety of styles, shapes and lengths. If you are thinking about wearing a veil on your wedding day, the style you wear is highly dependent on the style and formality of your gown.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Blusher Veil

   • Blusher veils are very short in length and made with only one layer of material. This style of veil is used to cover the face prior to the ceremony, and falls just below the chin. It can be worn with virtually any style of dress.

   Chapel Veil

   • The chapel style is considered a formal type of veil and is made from two layers of material. The first layer extends 2 1/2 yards from the headpiece and is used to cover the face during the ceremony. The second layer extends to the floor and is worn behind the head at all times. The chapel veil is appropriate to wear with a formal gown that is floor-length.

   Cathedral Veil

   • Similar to the chapel veil, the cathedral veil is made up of two layers of material in two different lengths. The first layer is used to cover the face, and falls 3 1/2 yards from the head piece. The second layer of the cathedral veil extends to the floor. The cathedral veil is most appropriate if your gown is very formal and has a long train.

   Elbow Veil

   • An elbow veil can be made from one or two layers of material, and extends to the bride's elbows. This style is appropriate with any dress longer than knee length.

   Fingertip Veil

   • Like the elbow veil, a fingertip veil can be made from one or two layers of material. It extends to the bride's fingertips, and looks best with formal, floor-length gowns.

   Waltz Veil

   • The waltz is another style of formal veil, and its length varies. The shortest a waltz veil should fall is the knees, and the longest is the floor. This veil is made from a single layer of material.

   Flyaway Veil

   • The flyaway veil is less formal than cathedral, waltz and chapel veils, and is made from several layers of material. The veil is short and falls to the shoulder blades. The flyaway veil should be worn with simple gowns, floor-length or shorter with no train.

   Mantilla Veil

   • Mantilla veils are circular-shaped and rest on top of the head. The outside edges of the veil are covered with lace that frames the face. This style can be worn with any gown ankle-length or longer.

   Russian/ Fishnet Veil

   • The Russian veil, sometimes called the fishnet veil, is a short veil usually attached to a decorative hairpiece. The veil falls asymmetrically across the face and is made from a single layer of material. The material usually has larger holes than traditional taffeta veils, and is sometimes made of fishnet material. Russian veils look best with short dresses, but can be worn with longer lengths up to floor-length.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: made from, layers material, veil made, veil made from, worn with, cover face

Rustic wedding ideas & arrangements

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."

Rustic decor incorporates worn, weathered design concepts and pieces. It is the opposite of refined and modern decor. Warm, rustic decor is popular for weddings because it gives the wedding a timeless look and is a laid-back alternative to a formal wedding. Whether held indoors or outdoors, a rustic wedding features natural and organic elements.

1. Rustic Centerpieces

   • Create a classic rustic centerpiece by gathering some rustic buckets (old, used metal buckets, usually 1- or 2-gallon sizes), sunflowers, lady's mantle, yellow spray roses and oranges. Arrange all of the items in the bucket to create the centerpiece. The arrangement is up to you, though generally the sunflowers should be in the middle, shorter flowers on the outside, and oranges or other small items next to the buckets.

     Other centerpiece arrangements that complement a rustic wedding include dahlias, roses, wildflowers, orange poppies and gardenias. Incorporate twigs, berries and even pine cones into the decor, as well as other elements such as jars, fruits, vegetables, candles and wood. Again, the arrangement is informal. You can design a unique centerpiece using different elements for every table, or design identical pieces for each table. The key is to keep it simple- a few flowers, twigs in a bucket with pine cones scattered around the center of the table is plenty for each centerpiece.

   Rustic Lifestyle Inspirations

   • Pull out the cowboy boots and the metal buckets filled with jugs of milk, because it's not truly a rustic wedding without a little twist of country and farm life. Even if your wedding will not be taking place in a barn, look to the elements found in a barn for inspiration. Barrels and metals found in rustic farm tools create the perfect ambiance for a rustic wedding and reception- scatter these elements throughout the room or wedding venue. For example, use an old barrel as your guest book table. Hang several different-sized lanterns or incorporate them into a centerpiece. Watering cans also make for great vases- the older the can, the better.

   Rustic Colors

   • To obtain a rustic color scheme, pair together a soft gray or blue with greens and creams and add a touch of chocolate. Fall colors, like oranges, yellows and deep reds, are also appropriate. If you want to incorporate rustic elements instead of having full-blown rustic decor, use birch vases and other birch or wood accents throughout the venue (on the tables, the bar or hanging on the walls). Also, use rustic colors on your wedding invitations and bridesmaid dresses to complement the rustic reception decor. Give each groomsman a rustic-colored boutonniere that matches your color scheme.

   Rustic Cuisine

   • At the reception, serve a rustic meal that includes barbecued beef, pork or chicken. Fall vegetables like squash, zucchini and broccoli are great side dishes for a rustic meal, as is corn on the cob and potatoes. Macaroni and cheese is also an appropriate side dish or entree. After dinner, give guests a rustic, budget-friendly dessert treat: a build-your-own s'mores bar. Fill and label small metal buckets with all the essentials needed for a s'more: chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers and any other fun ingredient to add spice or other flavors to the traditional dessert. Guests will enjoy the rustic treat and the fun that comes with building it themselves.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: metal buckets, also appropriate, color scheme, complement rustic, ideas arrangements

About non traditional wedding shoes

It's interesting:
"What about the bride then, ladies and gentlemen? How wonderful she looks today. And Paul has scrubbed up quite nicely too – it’s amazing what a flannel and a bar of soap can do. But it’s a bit rude of him to have copied my outfit eh!"

Non-traditional wedding shoes make a fashion forward statement. Brides and grooms choose to wear shoes that showcase their style and personality over traditional attire.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Personality

   • Experts agree that wedding shoes can show personality.

     Charlotte Dellal, a fashion footwear designer, agrees that wedding shoes do not need to follow tradition. "I think it's definitely something to have fun with and show your personality," she tells Elle blog. Charlotte reported that she planned to wear leopard print shoes on her big day.

   Grooms

   • Even grooms can opt for something less traditional.

     "Few men actually like to wear dress shoes," notes the Bridella website. Grooms can feel relaxed and even a bit stylish in cowboy boots, sneakers, flip-flops -- even athletic cleats. "If they're a little dirty and worn, that's part of their charm," Bridella says of the latter.

   Atmosphere

   • The right shoe can create an atmosphere to make everyone feel comfortable.

     Shoes can set the tone at a wedding. Seeing the bride in something fun and playful, like bridal flip-flops, will create a more spontaneous atmosphere, suggests the writer at Unique Wedding Ideas.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding shoes, About traditional, About traditional wedding, that wedding, that wedding shoes, traditional wedding, traditional wedding shoes

Manufactured home parks in mesa, az

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 ..."

Mesa, Arizona, is a residential area just outside of both Phoenix and Tempe. There are a number of manufactured home communities within Mesa, many that cater specifically to residents 55 years of age and older. Availability and application process differ by each location, and it is strongly recommended that you contact the community at least four to six months in advance of an intended move.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Sunrise Village Mobile Home Park&lrm-

   • Sunrise Village Mobile Home Park is an upscale resort community for seniors 55 and over, available for extended rental throughout the year. Sunrise Village has more than 60 homes in the park in several different sizes and models, all with at least two bedrooms and two baths. Features at the park include a pool and jacuzzi, club house with a billiard and card room, as well as a library and reading room. The many special planned weekly activities including bingo nights, tropical night and taco night by the pool. There are also monthly trips to area casinos, sporting events, and museums.

     Sunrise Village Mobile Home Park

     5402 E. McKellips Road

     Mesa, AZ 85215-2664

     480-985-0548

     sunrise-village.com

   Citrus Gardens Mobile Park&lrm-

   • Citrus Gardens Mobile Park is an expansive manufactured home community in west Mesa with more than100 homes available for rent and lease. All homes have full kitchens, two bedrooms and two baths, a covered carport and a front and back yard. There is are two recreation halls, one at the front of the park and one at the rear, with a television room, meeting, room, reading library, and party and dining facilities. Citrus Gardens also has multiple shuffleboard courts, pool and sauna area, and a fitness center. The community is within a brief walking and driving distance from a number of restaurants and shopping centers.

     Citrus Gardens Mobile Park

     4065 E. University Drive

     Mesa, AZ 85205-7157

     480-832-0240

     citrusgardens.org

   Coronado Mobile Home Park&lrm-

   • The Coronado Mobile Home Park is an over-55 community in central Mesa with more than 100 homes available for rent and lease throughout the year. The park has a large clubhouse with two pool tables, a card room and television room, as well as coin-operated laundry facilities. The park has a full-time activities director on staff and regularly plans parties, dinners, golfing and bowling excursions. The park does not allow pets or motorcycles and strictly forbids subletting.

     Coronado Mobile Home Park&lrm-

     2700 E.Allred Ave.

     Mesa, AZ 85204

     480-969-8874

     coronadomobilepark.com&lrm-

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Home Park, Mobile Home, Mobile Home Park, Citrus Gardens, Park lrm-, Sunrise Village

Nautical wedding idea

It's interesting:
"Sometimes people get upset when their friend gets married, especially if they don’t know the bride too well. Well, the way I see it – today I’m not losing one friend to marriage, but gaining one instead. And, if you look over at our college friends sitting at table 9, it’ll highlight how nice it will be for us to gain a new member of the crew, a new best friend, especially one who clearly bathes regularly."

A nautical wedding theme combines the fun and relaxing vibe of the beach with the beauty of the ocean. Brides and grooms planning a nautical wedding have many options available for locations, colors, decorations, menus and centerpieces.

1. Colors

   • The wedding colors for a nautical wedding are straightforward. Typical nautical colors are navy blue, white and gold, with the occasional red or yellow accent. Bridesmaids' dresses can be navy blue, white or a combination of both colors. The groom and groomsmen have many options as well, from all navy to a typical nautical outfit of white trousers and navy blazers.

   Locations

   • Several locations would work well for a nautical themed wedding ceremony and reception. Locations near or on the water are ideal such as a beach, seaside resorts or clubs, docks, maritime museums, lighthouses or hired yachts. Couples not able to hold the services near the water can bring the nautical theme to the event venue by using ships' lanterns to light the ceremony and a ship’-s wheel as a podium.

   Decorations

   • Nautical wedding ceremony and reception decorations can include shells placed around the room or on the table, and navigational tide maps hung on the wall. Use lightweight mesh fishing nets as a component of tablecloths, and strategically place coiled rope, ships bells, signal flags, Adirondack chairs and old wooden boat parts around the room. Combine these nautical themed decorations with more traditional decorations such as miniature lights, candles, flowers, streamers and balloons for a beautifully decorated wedding.

   Menu

   • A light seafood menu is ideal for a nautical themed wedding. Formal receptions can center the meal around a lobster dinner, while a more casual reception can feature a clambake as the main course. Use various dishes and appetizers that contain all types of seafood such as crab, shrimp and scallops. Include one of two dishes for non-seafood eating guests. Keep the beverage menu simple with coordinating wines, fruit juices, spritzers and champagne.

   Centerpieces

   • Create a simple seascape centerpiece by filling a low, wide glass bowl with sand and adding candles and seashells. Place a ship in a bottle on a bed of sand and surrounded with flowers and shells. Other centerpiece ideas include miniature wooden lighthouses, brass lanterns, hurricane lamps or white, yellow and red floral arrangements.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: nautical themed, around room, blue white, ceremony reception, have many

Black, teal & silver wedding colors

It's interesting:
"You may never see a wedding like this one again … not now that they've banned ... 26-Mar-201As an extra special wedding present, I've organized a ..."

Black, teal and silver create an interesting wedding color combination. The teal, which is a bluish-green color, adds warmth to the cool tones of the silver and neutral black. As there are few natural flowers in these colors, rather than dye live flowers, consider the use of feathers or artificial flowers in table decorations instead.

1. Chic

   • Dress the bride with teal accessories, such as a small peacock feather in an updo, while the groom wears a teal feather pinned to his lapel or a teal tie and cummerbund. Table linens in black satin drape floor length as teal peacock feathers act as place mats for black plates holding teal fan-folded napkins. Silver ribbons fall diagonally across black chair covers and are tied into silver bows accented with a teal feather slipped inside. A silver footed urn filled with black and teal peacock feathers serves as the centerpiece.

   Elegant

   • Adorn the bride with a silver crystal tiara and silver scepter bouquet of black and teal roses. Dress the groom in a silver-colored vest and a black top hat with a teal tie pin for his silver and black striped tie. Silver mirrored place mats cover a black silk tablecloth swagged to the sides and layered over a teal table linen. Weaved teal ribbon slip through open black chair backs tied with silver cords accented with a crystal pin. Sprinkle crystals around a black vase filled with a silver spray painted tree branch dripping strands of crystal beads for a centerpiece.

   Romantic

   • Accent the bridal gown with sprigs of teal roses in the brides' hair or as a wrist corsage, while the groom wears a teal rose on his lapel. Silver table linens cover the table and chair backs. Black plates rest on the table with silver napkins folded over a peek-a-boo teal rose. A silver-toned Eiffel tower flower arrangement floats in the center of the table with a layer of black silk roses surrounding a center of teal silk orchids.

   Classic

   • Slip a wedding gown accented with silver beading and crystals on the bride. Line the walkway to the alter with candles to give a shimmery fairy tale appearance to the bride as she meets her groom. Dress the tables with teal and black candles set in silver candelabras and small crystal table chandeliers for candles. Set the display on a tonal silver table linen and use silver chargers and napkins. Add a silver bow to the backs of the chairs.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: with silver, teal silver, with teal, accented with, Black teal silver

Historical houses in sarasota, florida

It's interesting:
"Ellen told Keith that by their wedding day she wanted him to have the body of an Olympic swimmer. She was thinking of Michael Phelps, but from ..."

The city of Sarasota is located in Sarasota County on the southwest coast of Florida. Sarasota is known for its wide variety of historic homes, from small tin roof clapboard cottages to mansions, and even has a style of architecture named after the city.

1. Sarasota School of Architecture

   • The widely known "Sarasota School of Architecture," also called "Sarasota Modern," is a regional style of post-World War 1 architecture originating in Florida's central west coast. Exemplified in most of the city's historical houses, its key inspirations come from the city's climate and terrain. The style incorporates the use of large sunshades, oversized sliding glass doors, floating staircases, innovative ventilation systems and walls of jalousie windows.

   Major Contributors to the Style

   • Architect Ralph Twitchell is credited as the "grandfather" of the Sarasota School of Architecture. He also partnered on projects with Paul Rudolph, who later established his own firm and subsequently became the Dean of the Shool of Architecture at Yale University.

     John Ringling, one of the five brothers who started the Ringling Brothers Circus in 1884, and his wife, Mable, were key partners in the establishment of the city's Ringling College of Art and Design, and they founded the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

   Famous Sarasota Homes

   • Many of the luxurious residences built along Sarasota Bay's northern shore during the 1920s boom period have survived even into 2010.

     Cà- d'Zan Mansion, the 1925 Sarasota residence of John and Mable Ringling, is a palatial building featuring 56 rooms filled with art and original furnishings. The mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

     The Ella Dulla Westermann Tenant House near historic Burns Court area is a bungalow painted in rustic green with a lighter green and orange trim, with a tin roof and a red brick chimney.

     The Harvey House is a prominent landmark in the Sarasota neighborhood of Sapphire Shores. The materials used were limited to hollow tile or cement (concrete) block.

     Twitchell's house, built in 1942, exhibits an open plan, a flat roof and broad overhangs with large expanses of glass and stacked Ocala Block walls.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Sarasota School, Sarasota School Architecture, School Architecture, Architecture also, city Sarasota

Reception place card etiquette

It's interesting:
"There are those who accuse Paul of being unromantic. Well, all I can say, Linda, is that he'll prove them wrong on February 14 when he celebrates Valentine's ..."

Wedding receptions typically host a variety of guests, and seating arrangements may offer the bride and groom an opportunity to arrange their reception in a way that promotes comfort, enjoyment and coordination for all who are celebrating. Among each table, place cards may help to ensure that specific people may sit together, while also distilling potential conflict or awkwardness.

1. Function

   • A place card is typically used in conjunction with an escort card and table number. The escort card is displayed near the front entrance and tells the guest what table she is sitting at. This can be designated by either a table number or a personalized option such as places traveled or childhood pet names. Once the guest arrives at her assigned table, a place card assigns her a specific seat.

   Tradition

   • Place cards are most often used at the head table. This is a position of honor intended for the bride, the groom and their attendants. Customarily, the bride and groom sit together and are flanked by their maid of honor and best man, respectively. Bridesmaids would sit next to the maid of honor in a designated order, as would groomsmen after the best man. Taking into account any potential speeches or need for exit access, may also help to decide the seating arrangement.

   Considerations

   • The names of a couple may share one place card, but if so, should be placed between their designated table settings. For clarity, it may be helpful to write each individual's name on his own place card and set it directly in front of his seat. This is especially true if they are not assigned to sit directly next to each other. It is still acceptable for a couple to share an escort card that will direct them to the correct table. A single guest should always have his own escort and place card.

   Types

   • Using place cards for every person at the wedding is considered a very formal option. A slightly less black-tie, but still traditionally proper, choice is to provide place cards for the wedding party at the head table, and at the bride's parents' table, while assigning only table numbers for the rest of the guests. Buffets are considered to be more casual and allow for either assigned or open tables. Cocktail formats encourage milling about and often do not provide enough seating for every guest, so an open seating arrangement is necessary.

   Benefits

   • The place card's job is to let the guests know where to sit, but that doesn't mean it can't represent individuality, the theme of the wedding or be multipurpose. Place cards can be a decorative accent to the table as part of a small flower bouquet or customized napkin setup. They may also combine function and a heartfelt keepsake by doubling as a favor for guests to take with them.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: place card, bride groom, escort card, place cards, card etiquette, couple share

What kind of resume does a photographer need?

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 ..."

A good resume is key to selling yourself for any type of job. But if you are a photographer, you have an extra, visual element to consider as you create your resume. Your potential employer or client will most certainly want to review your recent work before hiring you, so you need to figure out include a portfolio element to your resume.

1. Print Resume

   • You should always be ready to adapt your resume format, and certain situations, for instance studio based jobs, may require a traditional print resume. Include your key qualifications at the top of your resume, including your technical accomplishments and most prestigious jobs or exhibitions. Be prepared to rewrite your resume for each job you apply for. Include a website link where your portfolio can be viewed.

   Website Resume

   • This is one of the most practical ways for photographers to showcase their skills to prospective clients and employers. It is distinct from any photography website that you may also maintain, in that it focuses on your employable skills as well as displaying your best work. It contains all of the usual resume information, but also embeds your portfolio. You can distribute this type of resume by sending a link in an email.

   Website

   • If you are a freelancer looking for individual clients, your professional website can function as your resume. In this type of website, your work takes center stage, but you include a page with your bio, your work experience and your accomplishments. Remember that your contact information should be clearly visible on every page –- don’-t make it hard to find.

   Visuals

   • For most jobs, a resume should look only neat and professional. Expressing your creativity in your resume is not usually advisable for many conventional positions. Not so with photography. Find ways to incorporate your visual flair and style into your resume, whether it’-s print or digital. The content should always be top priority and easy to read, but it’-s permissible to incorporate color, design elements and of course, pictures.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your resume, does photographer, does photographer need, kind resume, kind resume does, photographer need, resume does

Skyline view restaurants in new york city

It's interesting:
"My first impression of Linda was that she was such a beautiful, witty, charming, clever, friendly and thoughtful person. And when she agreed to marry Paul, it totally proved to me that old adage – opposites really do attract."

As author E.B. White said, "It is a miracle that New York works at all. The whole thing is implausible." At ground level, the city looks like a maze of glass, steel, bricks and stone with skyscrapers blocking the sun and taxicabs blocking the streets. Locals know that to truly appreciate the city, you must find the nearest rooftop restaurant, relax over a good meal, shake off your week and enjoy the beauty of Manhattan's skyline.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. The View

   • The View, located on the 47th floor of New York's Marriott Marquis hotel, holds the distinction of being the only revolving rooftop restaurant in the city. Its quietly elegant setting with glass outer walls sets the stage for the dramatic views of the city as the restaurant revolves a full 360 degrees once every hour. The View Lounge is located on the 48th floor and serves cocktails, a light dinner buffet as well as a dessert buffet featuring gourmet sweets, artisan cheeses and a chocolate fountain. Children are not permitted in the lounge after 9 p.m. The three-course prix fixe dinner menu offers diners a choice of appetizers, entrees, desserts and a signature cocktail. Sides are available at an additional charge. Popular dishes include the Maine lobster tail, sauteed scallops with butternut squash and roasted rack of lamb.

     The View
     

     1535 Broadway
     

     New York, NY 10036
     

     (212) 704-8900
     

     theviewnyc.com

   230 Fifth

   • Occupying the 20th floor and rooftop of the New York Market Center building, 230 Fifth offers 22,000 square feet of space to gaze at panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. The Rooftop Garden features private cabanas and plenty of greenery giving it a tropical feel. The fully enclosed Penthouse Lounge offers 1940s retro decor with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing skyline views. The menu features an assortment of pub-style appetizers with a modern twist. Guests enjoy their cocktails while noshing on Romli sliders a la Kuala Lumpur served with chili sauce, aioli and pickled cucumbers, crispy pastries stuffed with curried chicken and chicken wings with a Malaysian oyster barbecue sauce. Dinner entrees include sea bass poached in coconut broth, short rib of beef Rendang and an oyster omelet with cilantro, chili vinegar and bean sprouts.

     230 Fifth
     

     230 Fifth Ave.
     

     New York, NY 10001
     

     (212) 481-1999
     

     rarebarandgrill.com

   Salon de Ning

   • Salon de Ning occupies the rooftop of the 23-story Peninsula Hotel. Two terraces are available with views of Fifth Avenue and the Hudson River. Modern Chinese-inspired decor hints at 1930s Shanghai, while bonsai trees, heat lamps for chilly weather and daybeds afford a relaxing evening overlooking the Manhattan skyline. The Asian-influenced menu offers a selection of plates to share such as the smoked tea-dusted shrimp with tamarind dipping sauce or the crab and avocado maki roll with smoked red pepper aioli.

     Salon de Ning
     

     700 Fifth Ave.
     

     New York, NY 10019
     

     (212) 903-3097
     

     peninsula.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Manhattan skyline, Salon Ning, Fifth York, menu offers, restaurants york, restaurants york city, rooftop restaurant

Ranch style wedding ideas

It's interesting:
"The best way to get a wedding reception crowd on side is too say something nice about the bride ... You could also add that it's been a wonderful wedding so far."

Ranch style weddings can be elegant, memorable and relatively simple to plan and carry out. Ranch style wedding ideas should begin with the invitations and be carried throughout the process, all the way from the wedding party's attire, to the location of the ceremony, to the wedding cake.

1. Set the Tone

   • Invitations will set the tone for the wedding day, so take special care to have the ranch style theme begin here. Whether the invitations are professionally printed or made at home, give them a western look with interlocking horseshoes, a rustic reproduction of a fence line, or his and hers cowboy boots. The invitations also should make it clear whether the ceremony is formal or a more casual affair- don't confuse your guests about what they should wear to the wedding

   Location

   • While ranch style weddings can certainly be held in a church, think about less traditional locations for the ceremony. If you wish to take a chance on the weather, consider holding the wedding outdoors with the setting sun as a backdrop. If a family member or friend has a barn that would be suitable for the ceremony, having bales of hay and maybe even some horses nearby would lend a strong sense of ranch style.

   Attire

   • The wedding party should look the part for a ranch style ceremony. The groom, best man and other groomsmen can wear western-style tuxedos, topped off with matching cowboy hats, boots and bolo ties. The bride can certainly wear traditional white, but she may wish to select a gown that's made from soft linen and lace instead of ivory satin. A traditional western wedding dress will also have a high neck and longer sleeves than many modern gowns.

   Reception

   • Carry the ranch theme through to the wedding reception with the proper decorations and food. An authentic western meal will feature a barbecue with lots of side dishes and homemade desserts. Gingham tablecloths and wildflowers will give the tables the appropriate look. Place the guestbook on a saddle that's sitting atop one or two bales of hay. The wedding cake also must have a ranch theme- try to find a plastic bride and groom sitting on horseback.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: ranch style, Ranch style, Ranch style wedding, style wedding, style wedding ideas, wedding ideas, have ranch

How to get a letter from the president

get a letter from the president

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."

Everyone likes to receive mail, as long as it's not bills. One letter that you don't see often is a letter from the President of the United States. Although the President stays busy, getting a letter from the President is a real possibility if you follow these steps.

Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. • 1

     Figure out if you belong to a special group. Your chance of receiving a letter from the President increases if you are a student or someone experiencing a milestone event, like a birthday or anniversary.

   • 2

     Arrange for someone to receive a special Presidential greeting letter if he is at least 80 years old or for a couple celebrating a 50th or higher anniversary.

   • 3

     Include key information in a greetings request. You will need to provide the name and address of person to receive mail from the White House. Include the preferred form of address (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Miss). Supply information about the occasion, including the exact date of the commemoration and the birthday age or wedding anniversary years. You'll need to give your own name and contact information as the person making the request.

   • 4

     Submit the greetings request to the White House at least six weeks in advance by email or fax to (202) 395-1232. You can also mail a request to: The White House, Attn: Greetings Office, Washington, D.C. 20502-0039.

   • 5

     Write a letter to the President if you are a student. Include information about yourself like how old you are and what your concerns are. Mail single letters to: President (Name), The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500.

   • 6

     Send classroom letters together in a manila envelope. The White Houses recommends using a cover letter with the teacher's name, class grade of the students and a mailing address for the school for a speedy response.

   • 7

     Fax a letter through the Presidential Student Correspondence Fax Number at (202) 456-7705.

Tips &- Warnings

• The White House only sends birthday or anniversary greetings to United States citizens.

• The President often includes an autographed photo with letters to students.

• The White House requests that people not send packages or valuable items through the mail. They can be damaged by the security screening process.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: White House, letter from, from President, letter from President, birthday anniversary, greetings request, Include information

How to decorate a bedroom in a vineyard theme

decorate a bedroom in a vineyard theme

It's interesting:
"Wedding days are meant to be unforgettable occasions, and this one certainly will be. The weather held out, the ceremony went without a hitch, and now a ..."

While most of the time you spend in the bedroom, your eyes are closed, you still want your bedroom to be inviting. It should be a sanctuary where you can unwind from busy days. Decorating with a vineyard theme is one way to make your bedroom a place of rest and relaxation. You can get creative in your decorating, from the paint to the accessories. You may even be able to use things you have in your own backyard to help create a vineyard-style bedroom.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• Fence
• Faux grapevines and grapes
• Plastic twist ties
• Grape vines

Instructions

1. • 1

     Paint the walls of your bedroom a pale green or purple. Paint the trim a complimentary color, such as cream to go with the purple walls or a light tan to go with green walls. Choose other colors, if desired, to go along with your vineyard theme.

   • 2

     Buy a length of fence to use as a headboard for your bed. Choose a fence that would typically be strong enough to hold up grape vines. Use wood screws to attach the fencing to your bed frame.

   • 3

     Drape some faux grape vines around the upper rail of the fence. Purchase some faux grapes that you can attach to the fencing and allow to dangle from the grape vines. Use plastic twist ties to firmly hold the grapes in place.

   • 4

     Find or make bedding and curtains that have the vineyard theme running through them, whether it is actual grape vines or bottles of wine. Choose fabrics that match the color of the paint.

   • 5

     Create an arbor as a decoration for your vineyard bedroom. Purchase long grape vines and twist the vines around each other to form a trellis. Hang these around dresser mirrors, doorways or window casings.

   • 6

     Find decorative wine bottles at flea markets or antique stores. Arrange these on a shelf for display in your vineyard bedroom.

Tips &- Warnings

• If you are unsure of what colors you should paint the walls of your bedroom to get that vineyard feel, purchase fabric for the bedding and curtains first. Use the colors in the fabric to help you choose paint colors for your walls.

• Save money on your vineyard bedroom makeover. Use woody vines that you may already have growing in your back yard. Cut 6-foot lengths and trim off any leaves. Lay the vines out in your yard to dry for a day before twisting into a grape arbor.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: vineyard theme, your bedroom, your vineyard, grape vines, vineyard bedroom

Blue & brown wedding cake ideas

It's interesting:
"After all, this wedding has given me the opportunity to meet many of Paul's ... And I hope, when they look back years from now on this, their wedding day, they ..."

Wedding cakes offer the opportunity to put the final personal touch on your wedding reception. Although the cake itself is steeped in tradition, the modern bride and groom are not limited to any one style, flavor or color. A wedding cake is truly a piece of edible art. Wedding cakes decorated in a blue and brown color palette is an elegant and sophisticated choice for any wedding.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Consider the Color Options

   • You know you want a blue and brown cake, but now you need to decide if you want a brown cake with blue accents, a blue cake with brown highlights, or a cake in which blue and brown have equal billing. You need to also decide which shade of brown and which shade of blue to use- it may be helpful to look at paint chips (available at hardware stores) to identity the best match. Look at the world around you for additional inspiration- the brown of a tree branch set against a blue summer sky, for example, or a blue robin's egg nestled safely in its nest.

   Using Two Colors on One Cake

   • In addition to choosing shades and proportion of blue to brown (or brown to blue), you can also experiment with using color in different ways in different parts of the cake. If you have a tiered cake, for example, you could choose to alternate the primary color of each tier. A blue tier with brown accents on the bottom tier, a brown tier with blue accents on the middle tier, and a blue tier with brown on the top can be quite striking.

   Decorative Themes

   • Certain themes or motifs lend themselves better to a brown and blue color scheme than others. A brown toile pattern on a blue background looks stunning. So do simple polka dots, bands (sometimes made of edible fondant, other times real ribbon) circling each cake tier. Another option would be to choose an all-blue cake accented with the couple's initials or monogram in brown. In general this color scheme is a sophisticated look, and tends to look best with simple, elegant motifs. Don't be afraid to break the "rules," though--discuss your ideas with your wedding cake designer, check out magazines and books for ideas, and maintain the confidence to choose what you think looks best. This is, after all, your wedding, and you get to make the style rules.

Source: www.ehow.com
Tags: wedding cake, tier with, with brown, your wedding, blue accents, blue brown

What are the requirements for a black tie wedding?

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 ..."

Dress codes for weddings can range from the semi-casual to the highly formal, and the black tie suggestion is one of the most formal on the spectrum. Black tie is more than just a suggestion of formal wear, and you should attempt to follow its requirements as closely as possible if you’-re attending such an event. Some wedding invites will specify black tie optional instead, which offers a more relaxed but still formal choice of what to wear.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Men’-s Jacket and Tie

   • The basis of the man’-s black tie outfit is the tuxedo, and this can be bought or rented. There are a few varieties of tuxedo jacket available. These include both single- and double-breasted jackets, as well as black and midnight blue colors. According to the Black Tie Guide website, things to avoid on a tuxedo jacket include flaps on the pocket, while notched lapels are acceptable but are not truly traditional. The jacket should be combined with a black bow tie, which should be self-tied, not clip-on, if possible.

   Shirt and Trousers

   • A man should wear a pleated or pique front shirt in white underneath his jacket. This shirt ideally has double cuffs, adorned with cuff links, as well as a turn-down collar, according to the Black Tie Guide website. The trousers of the outfit should be black and made from the same material as the jacket.

   For Women

   • If you’-re a woman, you have a little more choice when it comes to black tie. The general guidance is to wear a long evening gown or else a stylish cocktail dress. In terms of color, go for dark colors such as black and browns, as noted by the MSN Lifestyle website. You can wear jewelry if you desire. Feel free to wear glamorous makeup, too.

   Footwear

   • If you’-re a guy, you’-ll want black shoes, and ensure your footwear is well-polished, too. Common shoe styles for tuxedos include leather pumps and oxfords. Wear black socks with your shoes. Ladies should go for high heels or shoes of corresponding elegance.

   Variants

   • Sometimes the wedding invites will suggest a black tie dress code as optional. In these situations, you have a choice of whether to wear a tuxedo or not for men. If you don’-t wear one, you should still wear a suit, in a dark color if the wedding is at night, accompanied by a tie. Women attending weddings with such a dress code can still wear a long dress or don a cocktail-length dress instead.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Black Guide, Black Guide website, black wedding, dress code, Guide website, invites will

How to plan a mexican american wedding

plan a mexican american wedding

It's interesting:
"Linda’s been the driving factor when it came to planning this wedding, and Linda, it was perfect! All your hard work paid off, and I must say I’m honoured to be part of the only 5 minutes that you didn’t get to plan!"

Carrying out a Mexican American wedding is as much about blending two cultures as it is about making the wedding what the bride and groom envision their special day to be. Choose a few things from each culture and make this day special. Keep in mind cultural differences of the guests and enjoy.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Plan the food. Offering rice and beans may be a common Mexican dish, but many Americans don't care for refried beans. Mix traditional American food with the Mexican food. Offer carne asada for making your own burritos with several topping choices so the guests can make a salad instead.

   • 2

     Hire a mariachi band. This is a typical Mexican staple at any wedding, so add it to stay true to Mexican roots. Have the mariachi band circulate during the introduction and eating time and then have a contemporary DJ for the dancing. Blend both cultures at the ceremony and reception to please both sides of the couple's heritage.

   • 3

     Decorate with Mexican colors in an "American" way. Choose white table cloths. Add red and green flower arrangements for the center of each table. Add colorful lighting in an outside setting along with decorative pinatas. Have room for people to move outside to enjoy the more festive Mexican atmosphere while keeping the inside area romantically subtle and elegant.

   • 4

     Buy a traditional cake and a Mexican cake for dessert time. The traditional cake is for looks and display. At the dessert time, have the wedding cake and the Mexican cake served side-by-side in two smaller portions. A tres leche cake, or a fruit cake soaked in rum, are common Mexican cakes. Buy the damp heavier cake from any Mexican bakery and serve it alongside the common yellow cake with fruit filling and butter cream ice cream, for example.

   • 5

     Blend American and Mexican traditions in the actual ceremony. Tie a white rosary around the couple's necks. Have the bride carry the family rosary to the alter. Both the American side and the Mexican side will respect a wedding held in a church. Carry out the wedding in a way that pleases the bride and groom above all else. Throw in some family traditions and mix and match the pieces of each culture that you like. It is your wedding.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: american wedding, bride groom, cake Mexican, cake Mexican cake, common Mexican, dessert time, each culture

Traditional russian toasts

It's interesting:
"Normally, an outdoor spring wedding is a risk. Will there be snow? Will it be cold? Will it be hot? Will it rain? Thankfully, today the risk paid off with no precipitation, perfect weather, and a beautiful backdrop to see the union of Paul and Linda."

As with most cultures, Russians have toasts for many occasions. Of course, there are simple, everyday toasts- however, Russians have a rich tradition for toasting special occasions such as birthdays, weddings and welcoming the New Year. There are also toasts for friendship and to health. A Russian adage asserts: "Only problem drinkers don't toast before drinking."

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1. Russian Toasting Etiquette

   • Russians believe the first toast is the most important and no should drink until it is made.

     Among all Russians, there must be a first toast before anyone drinks. It is a kind of sacrament. At a wake, the first toast must be for the dead person. When friends gather, the first toast is usually "Let's be healthy!" The first birthday toast is for the health of person celebrating and the second toast to the person's parents. The second toast should follow quickly in keeping with the Cossack maxim: "Between the first and second toasts, a bullet should not pass." Among Russian soldiers, the third toast is to the dead of war and the fourth is a toast that none of them present will ever drink the third toast for another present. Among the soldiers, the next 10 toasts are reserved for women.

   Russian Wedding Toasts

   • Russian wedding toasts are especially festive.

     Weddings are cause for great celebration among Russians and they have many traditional toasts for the event. There are standard toasts such as "To the newlyweds!" or "To the bride and groom!" and, of course, "To the beautiful bride." However, there are other traditional wedding toasts: "May the happy star that brought you together shine on you for many, many years. Let us raise our glasses to the newlyweds and their happy future!" and "Dear bride and groom, today you celebrate your first wedding. May it be your last one!" At a wedding celebration, the toast "Let's drink to love! Gorka!" is often followed by someone shouting out the Russian word for "bitter" to which the bride and groom respond by kissing. Another wedding toast says: "May your children have happy and rich parents!"

   Russian Friendship Toasts

   • Toasts to friendships often come as stories.

     Toasting friendship is another strong Russian tradition and often the toast takes the form of a story. For example, two old friends are strolling down a street, when one stops and takes the other man's arm. "Let's get out of here! Quick!" he says. "What's the matter?" his friend asks. "Look at the other side of the street--my wife is talking with my mistress." His friend looks across the street and says: "Don't worry, this is my wife talking with my mistress. Cheers to real friends!"

   New Year Toasts

   • Russians believe the success of the New Year's Eve party will reflect the New Year.

     Toasting the New Year, Russians believe that if the New Year's Eve party is good, the coming year also will be good, thus the toast: "May this year be as happy as this party!" There is also this toast: "May this year bring us as many nice surprises as there are lights in all Christmas trees of the city!" Another New Year's toast: "Let us raise our glasses to Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and his granddaughter Snegurotchka! They never get old or sick and always have enough money for presents! May we be like them!"

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: first toast, bride groom, Russians believe, raise glasses, russian toasts

How is the leadership of christianity organized?

It's interesting:
"Our members' speeches are wedding-day highlights, so whether you're planning ... We have the largest collection of original, never-canned wedding speech ..."

The three main branches of Christianity in the modern world are the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Catholic Church, and Protestantism. Of these three, the Catholic Church is the most monolithic and hierarchical. The Eastern Orthodox Church split with the Catholic Church in 1054, in what is known as the "Great Schism." Protestantism emerged out of Christianity as a result of the teachings of Martin Luther and the Reformation in the sixteenth century.

1. Eastern Orthodoxy

   • The Eastern Orthodox Church considers Jesus Christ to be its leader. Beneath Him are bishops, each of whom is the leader of a geographic area. Eastern Orthodox bishops are organized into groups called synods. Each synod is self-regulating and autonomous. While the Pope in Rome was part of this group prior to 1054, since the "Great Schism", Eastern Orthodoxy no longer recognizes the Pope.

   Catholicism

   • The Pope is the leader of Catholicism. The Catholic Church reckons Jesus Christ's disciple Peter to be the first Pope, since Christ conferred authority on him to continue the church after His death. The current Pope is believed by Catholics to be the last in an unbroken line of Popes that began with Peter. Beneath the Pope are cardinals, and beneath them are nearly 3,000 bishops, each of whom oversees a diocese. Beneath the bishops are priests, each of whom is responsible for a parish. Priests are sometimes assisted by deacons.

   Protestantism

   • Following the Reformation, Protestantism did not assume the same monolithic form as Catholicism. Protestantism consists of a large number of sects, including Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Lutherans and Episcopalians. The Anglican Church is also a Protestant church, but is much more closely associated with Catholicism than other forms of Protestantism. These groups represent a wide variety of interpretations of Christian doctrine, their differences often being the catalysts that split them into different organizations at some point in the past. In general, Protestant churches are distinguished from Catholicism by their belief that Communion is symbolic and doesn't involve true transsubstantiation (the transformation of Communion wafers and wine into the body and blood of Christ), and by de-emphasizing the Virgin Mary in Christian worship.

   Other Sects

   • Mormons, Anabaptists, Seventh Day Adventists, Quakers, Mennonites, Doukhobors and many smaller and lesser known sects are associated with Christianity to greater or lesser degrees. In addition, the lessening of the church's social influence throughout the twentieth century has resulted in a growing number of people who identify themselves as Christians, but aren't members of any church. These people represent the decline of "sacerdotalism," the belief that priests and other authority figures are necessary intermediaries between God and laypeople.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox, each whom, Eastern Orthodox Church, Orthodox Church, associated with, belief that

How to freeze dry a wedding bouquet

freeze dry a wedding bouquet

It's interesting:
"In researching this speech, I’ve tried to find some dirt on Linda, but neither her brother nor her best friends could give me anything. As I'm sure you noticed it wasn’t a problem that I had with Paul. Linda is well liked by everyone, and I have never met anyone who has had anything but good things to say about her – which is wonderful for Paul, but a bit inconvenient for me at this precise moment. It means that I have to continue to shower her with platitudes. But seriously, Linda, you have had a huge positive impact on Paul, and we now speak of Paul ‘BL’ and ‘WL’ - ‘before Linda’ and ‘with Linda’."

Don't throw your bouquet away after the wedding, freeze dry the flowers and preserve the memory. This is not a DIY project where you put your flowers into the freezer, which will not freeze dry them, but one that requires thehelp of a professional. The freeze dry process occurs inside a machine that freezes the flowers and removes moisture simultaneously. Freeze drying takes from 21 to 40 days, depending on the amount of flowers in your bouquet. Naturally, some flowers work better than other in this process, although all flowers can be freeze dried.

Things You'll Need

• Box
• Ice chest
• Packaged liquid ice
• 3 to 4 towels

Instructions

1. • 1

     Ask your florists for freeze dry specialist recommendations when you order the bridal bouquets. Emphasize that you are specifically looking for a freeze dry specialist and not a flower preservationist, which use a different method to preserve flowers. Request three different recommendations.

   • 2

     Contact the three recommendations. Inquire about the total cost and whether there are any package deals available, such as the boutonniere included in the price of the bouquet. Ask about the process and learn if any damaged flowers are replaced or touched up. Find out which flowers are not conducive to the process, and what steps you are required to follow to begin the process. Write down all the information.

   • 3

     Prepare the box and pre-pay shipping arrangements ahead of time. Designate a trusted friend or the florist to handle the bouquet transfer arrangements. Explain the steps he needs to follow and give him written instructions. Have the transfer box brought to the reception.

   • 4

     Enjoy your wedding. Allow the photographer to pose you with your bridal bouquet and showcase your rings. Secure all the pictures you want with the bridal bouquet before heading to the reception.

   • 5

     Lay the bridal bouquet on several towels inside a small cooler chest filled with three packages of liquid ice. Place the transfer box, with another set of written instructions, on the top of the closed lid. Show him where the flowers are located. Call and confirm the flowers have been transported.

   • 6

     Contact the freeze dry company and confirm receipt of your flowers. Call them 30 days later for a progress update on the process.

Tips &- Warnings

• Mist the flowers with water before inserting into the ice chest and the box.

• Chrysanthemums, daisies and dahlias do not freeze dry well and may need to be reconstructed after the freeze dry process.

• Do not put flowers into the freezer as that will start the freezing process and cause flower to decompose during transport.

• Flowers may be put into the vegetable section of the refrigerator for cooling.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bridal bouquet, flowers into freezer, freeze process, freeze specialist, freeze wedding

Duties of a wedding planner

It's interesting:
"Ellen told Keith that by their wedding day she wanted him to have the body of an Olympic swimmer. She was thinking of Michael Phelps, but from ..."

Wedding planners can save couples time and stress. Wedding planners assist from planning the beginning details to coordinating on the big day. They can save money and hassle by negotiating with vendors to lower their prices for you. Wedding planners make weddings as stress-free as possible for the couple.

1. Wedding Details

   • A wedding planner brainstorms with you to create the perfect wedding. She will help you plan your wedding around your color scheme, the formality of the event and your budget.

   Timeline

   • Wedding planners help you write a checklist of your wedding tasks, and they help you prioritize them in order of importance.

   Budget

   • Wedding planners help create a budget spreadsheet so you can understand how much each vendor costs and not go over budget.

   Vendors

   • Wedding planners have professional relationships with different wedding vendors, such as florists, photographers and bakers, which will help your wedding be a success. They often try to negotiate deals with them on your behalf.

   Day of Coordinating

   • The wedding planner shows up early to double check all the details of the wedding, making sure all your centerpieces have arrived and are displayed just right. He will often help the photographer in placing the bridal party for photos to lessen the stress of the day.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Wedding planners, wedding planner, your wedding, Duties wedding, Duties wedding planner

Diy centerpieces with branches & lights

It's interesting:
"Paul is caring, he's generous, he's sensitive… in fact I don't even know him anymore. Linda has changed my best friend. Actually, I should thank you Linda. You've done in 18 months what I couldn't do in 18 years."

Elegant centerpieces made with tree branches and lights bring a warm, romantic flair to your dining or living room. They're also an ideal choice for wedding table centerpieces in the fall and winter, or focal pieces on an office end table. Create your own centerpiece and enjoy its luxurious appeal while being frugal. Once you learn how easy it is to make one, create more for every season, plus holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

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Things You'll Need

• Garden scissors
• Lopping shears
• Gardening gloves
• Latex gloves
• Battery-operated string of clear lights
• Vase
• Boa with faux feathers
• Tree branches
• White or silver spray paint
• Block of Styrofoam

Instructions

1. • 1

     Visit a craft store to purchase a white boa with faux feathers and a 1-foot tall, 1-foot wide vase. Insert the boa into the vase, separating and fluffing the boa feathers. Set the vase aside.

   • 2

     Put on your gardening gloves and head outdoors. Find tree branches that allow you to cut 3 feet of branch off while still leaving a generous stump behind. Using your lopping shears, cut branches that have multiple branches at the end to bring more dimension to your centerpiece. If you don't have a tree, ask your neighbors if they'd mind you trimming some branches off their trees. Cut three branches for your centerpiece.

   • 3

     Replace the gardening gloves with the latex gloves. Use you garden scissors to remove any short stumpy branches or debris. Spray the branches with white or silver spray paint until they're fully covered. Let them dry for 30 minutes and repeat.

   • 4

     Place the Styrofoam block in the center of the vase. Push each branch through the block so that the end hits the bottom of the vase and is secure. Begin hanging the string of clear lights starting from the upper branches working your way down. Make sure the battery pack is at the end. Put the battery pack in the center of the vase, on top of the Styrofoam block. Separate the boa feathers to the outer walls of the vase so the branch bottoms, Styrofoam block and battery pack are all covered.

Tips &- Warnings

• Switch up the theme of your centerpiece by using different spray paint colors for the branches or colored lights instead of clear- clear lights evoke an elegant feel.

• Hang ornaments on the branches during Christmas time, or decorated eggs around Easter.

• Make sure you test the lights and batteries before you string them through the branches.

• When leaving the room for the night, always turn the lights off.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your centerpiece, battery pack, branches lights, clear lights, spray paint, Styrofoam block, branches that