Etiquette for place card settings at weddings

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."

Place cards designate the table that a guest is assigned to sit at, but guests are typically able to choose their own seats at the table. Creating place cards is a popular idea for weddings, as it makes it much easier for guests to decide where to sit. Take the time to put thought into your seating arrangements, so that everyone is happy and has a good time.

1. Seat Card Placement

   • Put place cards on a table either in the hallway leading to the reception room or at the entrance to the room, so guests can find them easily. Put the name of the guest and the table number that he is seated at on the place card. Have a couple copies of the seating chart on the table for guests to use to find their table. This way they won't have to do laps around the room looking for it.

   Wedding Guests' Dates

   • If you do not know the names of some of the dates of your wedding guests, you must find them out prior to making the place cards. Get in touch with the guests bringing dates who you have not met and ask for the name of their dates. Make sure to check the spelling too, so that you don't accidentally misspell the person's name. Although this person is a stranger to you, she is still a guest at your wedding and should be treated the same as the others.

   Table Placement

   • It is proper etiquette to sit pregnant and elderly guests near an exit so that they have a quick and clear path to the restroom. Also, if an elderly guest is hard of hearing, you will want to put them at a table near the front of the room where most of the action is. This way those guests can hear what is going on.

   Choosing Table Assignments

   • Put young children at a table with their parents. Children who are old enough to sit and behave during the festivities can be put at a children's table, if there are enough of them to warrant a designated one. If you have guests who don't care for one another, avoid seating them at the same table. Seat groups such as college friends, co-workers and the bride and groom's side of the family together, when possible. Instead of creating a miscellaneous table for single guests and those who don't know anyone else at the wedding, mix them in with your other friends and family members.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: place card, place cards, card settings, card settings weddings, children table, Etiquette place

Etiquette for late wedding presents

It's interesting:
"Now, I appreciate that you're all missing the Wimbledon final to be here today, but let this wedding be a reminder that there's more to life than single events ..."

According to Amy Vanderbilt, "Only a great fool or a great genius is likely to flout all social grace with impunity, and neither one, doing so, makes the most comfortable companion." Following the rules of etiquette is a way of ensuring that others are always comfortable in your presence. If you are knowledgeable about appropriate gift-giving and wedding etiquette, it is much easier to avoid misunderstandings, stress and offense.

1. Gift-giving

   • Etiquette dictates that wedding presents are optional expressions of affection. The scale and cost of the happy couple's nuptials have no bearing on whether a gift should be given or on the amount a gift should cost. Assuming that the bride and groom follow the conventions of etiquette, you will never be asked why you did not give a present or whether your present is late, as that is the ultimate in rudeness.

   One-Year Argument

   • The traditionally held belief is that a wedding gift can be given up to a year after the event. While this may be a rule that many follow, it is considered bad form to wait so long.

   Three-Month Argument

   • According to the Emily Post Institute, "Guests do not have a year in which to send a gift. The gift should be sent within three months of the wedding, at the outside."

   Advance Notice

   • If you know in advance that your present will be late for a valid reason, such as financial hardship, it never hurts to explain the situation to the bride or groom. That way the couple will know you are thinking of them and will be even more appreciative of your gift when it does arrive.

   Give Late

   • Although it is preferable to give in a timely manner, "It's never too late to send a gift," according to GiftStasher.com. Indeed, a belated present is usually a pleasant surprise for the recipient. However, as Miss Manners reminds us, "People do not like to hear that someone was too busy or too forgetful to think of them." Skip the lengthy apology and focus on finding the couple a memorable gift.

     Many registries remain open for a year after the wedding, providing guidance to the belated giver. Remember to ask the couple if their registry is up-to-date prior to purchasing, to avoid buying a duplicate item.

     If more than a year has passed since the wedding and you still wish to give a gift, consider sending the not-so-newlyweds with an anniversary present instead.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: gift should, wedding presents, bride groom, Etiquette late, Etiquette late wedding, late wedding, late wedding presents

Games for the wedding cake cutting

It's interesting:
"The bride and groom have asked me to make special mention of the bridesmaids who have done so much to help the day run so smoothly. They were charming and decorative and I know gave Linda all the support she needed. In fact you could say they added the finishing touch to a fairy tale wedding."

The cake cutting is a traditional part of the wedding. In some weddings, the bride and groom push the cake into each other's faces to have fun and laugh at each other. Other weddings are less wild and keep the cake cutting orderly. Dummies.com states that the wedding cake cutting and sharing is a symbol for the first meal a couple has as a husband and wife. It is possible to make cutting the cake fun for the couple and their guests.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Music and Dancing

   • During the cake cutting, play some bright, cheerful and fun music. Music and dancing are a part of the reception and the bride and groom can use music as a way to signal the guests about the cake cutting and make the cake cutting interesting. The bride and groom can dance their way to the table to the tunes of "I Got You Babe," "Love and Marriage," or "Chapel of Love."

   Charm Game

   • Wedding cakes can have charms added to them as a special prize and favor. The charms are added in the pieces of cake given to guests, placed at random and located under the piece of cake. Tell the guests that some pieces of cake have a charm in them and if they find a charm, they not only get to keep the charm, but also get another prize. The prize can vary such as certain prizes for different charms or it can be the same, like a gift certificate.

   Cupcake Activity

   • A bride and groom can opt to have cupcakes instead of having the caters cut the full cake, letting only a small cake act as the actual wedding cake for cutting by the bride and groom. This not only saves money, but it allows for games. Put charms in the cake which can turn into jewelry pieces or put little instruction papers in the cupcake paper. The guests who find the charms can put them on the bride or groom while those who find an activity paper can make the bride or groom perform the activity. For example, someone might get a paper saying "chicken dance" and then they can designate the bride, groom or even another guest to perform the dance.

   Trivia Game

   • During the cake cutting and eating of cake or cupcakes, the guests can play a trivia game with the bride and groom. The guests might have trivia questions in papers under the cake or to the side of each piece of cake. The questions should have answers as well. The guests ask the questions and the bride or groom must answer. If the answer is wrong, the bride or groom must perform some action dictated by the guest.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, cake cutting, wedding cake, wedding cake cutting, bride groom have, bride groom must, cake cutting interesting

Natural hairstyles for brides

It's interesting:
"August is the month when many folk festivals take place, where the audience stares at a bloke with a microphone and one finger stuck in his ear. In contrast ..."

Although some brides dream of a formal, elaborate hairstyle that requires hours at the bridal salon, others prefer a more low-key wedding look. Whether it's a casual wedding or a more formal affair, brides with a more natural style often prefer to skip high-maintenance, overly styled wedding hair. Relaxed and casual wedding hairdos, accessorized with flowers or natural jewels, allow a bride’-s natural style to shine through, while still adding romance and glamour to her wedding coiffure.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Casual Waves

   • Brides planning on an informal wedding ceremony at a beach or another venue might choose a soft wavy hairstyle that matches the style of the venue. This casual hairstyle works well with short, medium or long locks. Accentuate naturally curly locks by spraying them with a sea salt mist and then allowing hair to air dry. Purchase this product or make your own by mixing 2 tbsp. of sea salt with 1 cup of water. Apply volumizing tonic to straight hair and use a curling iron or hot rollers to achieve a wavy, tousled look. Crown beachy locks with a seashell headband or tiara.

   Loose Bun or Braids

   • Start this style with curly hair, using a curling iron/hot rollers on your locks if your hair isn't naturally curly. Braid it into a long, loose style. Skip the hairspray and allow tendrils and large portions of hair to remain loose. Keep the style soft and unstructured. A romantic, soft bun can emphasize a natural style. Push wavy hair into a ponytail, wrap it around the elastic to form a messy bun and secure it with a few pins. Use a bit of styling gel or hairspray for hold and texture, but avoid overusing styling products. It should look like it could tumble loose at any moment. Tuck flowers into the braid or bun to accentuate a natural look. This is an appropriate hairstyle for destination brides or for those planning an outdoor, garden wedding, but it also works well in more formal settings.

   Ponytail

   • A sleek, simple ponytail is one hair option for modern brides, according to Glamour magazine. Apply volumizing tonic and blow dry hair into a super-smooth style. Fasten it tightly so it sits slightly below the middle center of the back of your head. Smooth shine serum onto the ponytail for maximum gloss. Accessorize the ponytail by wrapping a strand of your own hair around the elastic band and pinning it under. Consider wrapping the ponytail with some fabric from your dress or flowers from your bouquet.

   Short and Sweet

   • Short locks require little styling and can be an attractive choice for a natural bride. Make your hairstyle wedding ready by adding nature-inspired accessories. Tuck a large flower behind one ear for a romantic, jazz-inspired style. Tousle your hair and tuck jeweled hairpins throughout it for a slightly messy, but still glamorous, hairstyle. Avoid accessories made of rhinestone and plastic. Instead, wear headbands and barrettes made with sustainable jewels, such as farmed pearls, for a low-key, natural look.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: natural style, your hair, Apply volumizing, Apply volumizing tonic, around elastic

Ring tattoo facts

It's interesting:
"Click on a category below. Links to your chosen speeches will appear in the viewer on the right. Speech 6 in the category 'Childhood friend' under the heading ..."

Tattoos are a permanent testament to remember a time in one's life, profess love for a family member or significant other or for beauty and adornment purposes. Choosing placement for the tattoo is a collaborative effort between the client and tattoo artist. The size and detail of the tattoo determines the placement. If the client refuses to compromise the size and detail of the tattoo, the tattoo may be placed on a different body part than the client initially envisioned to ensure the quality of the tattoo.

1. Significance

   • A ring tattoo signifies marriage, commitment or honoring the memory of a loved one. In some occupations, such as the military or factory work, a spouse may not be able to wear a wedding ring for safety reasons. Tattooing matching rings around the ring finger marks a permanent wedding band for the wearer. Not all ring tattoos signify marriage or a commitment. A ring of hearts or a family member's favorite flowers placed on the finger symbolizes the love for a deceased family member.

   Types

   • The individual receiving the tattoo determines the type of tattoo ring. Designs for ring tattoos range from a word such as "love" or "hope," initials, Celtic artwork, stars, flowers or solid bands of color. Less detail in the design enhances the outcome of the tiny tattoo on the finger. Tattoo lines will blur and expand over time if the design is extremely detailed.

   Size

   • The size of every ring tattoo will differ depending on the size of the client's finger. The design wraps around the finger. On small fingers, the ring tattoo is as small as a half inch in width, while on a large or wide finger, the tattoo measures out to 2 1/2 inches. The ring tattoo usually does not pass the bottom knuckle of the finger.

   Time Frame

   • A ring tattoo's healing period is two weeks for a healthy client who correctly follows aftercare. Because the fingers are in constant motion and are constantly exposed to the sun, the ring tattoo may need a touch up immediately after the two-week healing period. The constant motion of the fingers results in scabs from the tattoo falling or ripping off before healing, leaving the tattoo with missing color. Professional tattoo artists discuss with the client before tattooing the possibility of touch-ups for ring tattoos.

   Considerations

   • The finger is a part of the body that is constantly exposed and that is not concealed by clothing. This makes the ring tattoo highly visible, and potentially the wearer could be judged by others in the workplace or in social situations. Most professional tattoo artists refuse to perform ring tattoos if the client is not already heavily tattooed, meaning full sleeves or leg and neck tattoos. A ring tattoo's first touch-up may be free from a tattoo artist, but the client may pay for each additional touch-up. Depending on the client's skin, touch-ups may be necessary every six months, and this be expensive. Without touch-ups, the ring tattoo may completely disappear, and some clients will find this to be a waste of money.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: ring tattoo, ring tattoos, family member, ring tattoo, constant motion, constantly exposed

Military waikiki hotels

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."

Waikiki is located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Waikiki Beach is a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a plethora of activities, including surfing competitions and outdoor performances. Waikiki is also home to the Fort deRussy Military Reservation and has a variety of comfortable hotels that cater to military personnel and their families.

1. Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa

   • The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa offers discounts to military personnel and their families. Personnel are required to show a military ID card when checking in. The Hilton is on Waikiki's largest beach area and features a 24-hour business center, more than 90 retail shops, a variety of swimming pools and a concierge service. Rooms come with refrigerators, flat-screen televisions, tea/coffee-making facilities and high-speed wireless Internet access. The Hilton's dining opportunities include steak and seafood dishes.

     Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa
     

     2005 Kalia Rd.
     

     Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
     

     808-949-4321
     

     Hiltonhawaiianvillage.com

   Castle Hokele Suites Waikiki

   • The Castle Hokele Suites is minutes from Waikiki Beach and offers military personnel up to 45 percent off their room rates. Personnel are required to present their military ID cards to receive the discount. The hotel is close to a variety of beach activities, including surfing, swimming and nighttime entertainment. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, guest laundry facilities and high-speed Internet access. The hotel has one- and two-bedroom suites equipped with cable television service, a balcony and a kitchen. Surrounding the hotel are restaurants that offer a variety of tropical/seafood and American cuisines.

     Castle Hokele Suites Waikiki
     

     412 Lewers St.
     

     Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
     

     808-923-8882
     

     Castleresorts.com

   Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki

   • The Ocean Resort Hotel is only three minutes from Waikiki Beach and offers military personnel and their families up to 45 percent off room rates. The hotel is split into two towers and has more than 450 rooms to chose from. Each room is equipped with refrigerators, balconies and a choice of a queen bed or twin beds. Comfortable amenities are found throughout the premises, including a bar and restaurant, a gift shop, two swimming pools and a sun deck.

     Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki
     

     175 Paoakalani Ave.
     

     Honolulu, HI 96815
     

     808-922-3861
     

     Castleresorts.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: military personnel, Beach Resort, Castle Hokele, Castle Hokele Suites, Hawaiian Village

Motorcycle bars in richmond, va

It's interesting:
"There's something special about a church wedding, but most of us here have to admit that we rarely set foot inside a church these days. In fact ..."

Motorcycle bars, commonly known as "biker bars," are frequented mostly by bikers, individuals who enjoy motorcycling. Motorcycle bars appear all over the United States and are laid-back places for motorcycle enthusiasts to meet and socialize. For bikers who plan on visiting Richmond, Va., there are several motorcycle bar options.

1. SJ's Lakeside Tavern

   • SJ's Lakeside Tavern is a relaxed motorcycle bar on Lakeside Avenue in Richmond's Washington Park neighborhood. SJ's Lakeside Tavern has several pool tables, and it also offers a weekly karaoke night. The bar serves standard homestyle American bar food, such as chicken fingers, at affordable prices. On weekends, live music acts commonly perform. Both lunch and dinner are served.

     SJ's Lakeside Tavern
     

     5406 Lakeside Ave.
     

     Richmond, VA 23228
     

     804-264-3288
     

     (no website)

   Richmond's Dog House

   • Richmond's Dog House is a laid-back motorcycle bar that has a friendly and helpful staff. Richmond's Dog House is one of the most popular motorcycle bars in Richmond, with its biker motif, including hanging motorcycles. The bar has no dress code. An affordable menu of Italian dishes, pizza and sandwiches is available. It has a bustling and oftentimes crowded atmosphere. The bar has a pinball machine and two dartboards.

     Richmond's Dog House
     

     1719 E. Main St.
     

     Richmond, VA 23223
     

     804-644-3004
     

     (no website)

   Sportsman Restaurant

   • Sportsman Restaurant is on Williamsburg Road in Richmond. Sportsman Restaurant is home to a well-known biker bar that offers live music, pool tables, video games and dartboards. The biker-friendly bar has ample seating and tables and a relaxed staff. The restaurant serves standard home-cooked American dishes (such as fried pork chops, macaroni and cheese, green beans and french fries) with abundant portions. The meal prices are reasonable, and the service at both the bar and restaurant is quick.

     Sportsman Restaurant
     

     3306 Williamsburg Road
     

     Richmond, VA 23231
     

     804-222-9622
     

     (no website)

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Lakeside Tavern, Richmond House, Sportsman Restaurant, Motorcycle bars, bars richmond, live music

How to plan an irish wedding

plan an irish wedding

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, ..."

Weddings in Ireland are an important time for renewal and continuity for the bride and groom. The couple often takes this time to connect with their roots in an effort to find a sense of tradition and identity to bring to their new family.

Things You'll Need

• Wedding Gowns
• Bridal Bouquets
• Flowers
• Horseshoes Of Satin
• Irish Wedding Cakes
• Claddagh Rings

Instructions

1. • 1

     Select a date for the wedding. The last day of the year is considered an especially lucky time for an Irish marriage.

   • 2

     Choose claddagh rings for your wedding bands. These traditional Irish rings, when worn on the ring finger of the left hand with the heart facing in, tell the world your heart is taken forever.

   • 3

     Hire a piper to play at your ceremony. Contact your local St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee for help in finding one.

   • 4

     Ask a child to present a satin horseshoe to the bride at the conclusion of the ceremony. This represents good luck. Insert the horseshoe open end up (so the luck won't run out) into the bridal bouquet.

   • 5

     Honor the person who introduced you to each other with a special toast at the wedding. This tradition stems from the days when a matchmaker had that role.

   • 6

     Serve a traditional Irish wedding cake, which is a fruit cake filled with almonds, raisins, cherries and spice, and laced with brandy or bourbon. You can order this or make it yourself.

   • 7

     Sign up for ceilidh (dance) lessons for the bride and bridal party prior to the wedding to learn some Irish dances to perform at the ceremony.

   • 8

     Hire a band that can play popular Irish songs, such as "The Irish Wedding Song," "Oh Danny Boy," "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," and "My Favorite Irish Rose."

   • 9

     Include a song or dance that reflects your family's specific heritage.

   • 10

     Tie harvest knots out of straw and decorate them with small flowers or bells to give to guests as favors. Attach a scroll explaining the significance, which is that young Irish men traditionally gave these to their girls to show their devotion.

   • 11

     Suggest your florist weave tiny harvest knots into your bouquet.

Tips &- Warnings

• Save the horseshoe from the wedding as a family heirloom to pass on to your children.

• Remember the Irish tradition that a sunny day is lucky, and a rainy one is not. Hope for sun on your wedding day!

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: harvest knots, Irish Wedding, plan irish, plan irish wedding, traditional Irish, your wedding

North american wedding traditions

It's interesting:
"On behalf of the bride and groom, I'd like to thank everyone for coming here today. Some of you have travelled considerable distances in order to be here and celebrate Paul and Linda’s happy day. Africa, Continental Europe, the Americas and Asia are not actually places where anyone has travelled from, but I hear that Uncle Jim and Auntie Morag had a 5 hour drive down from Glasgow."

The United States is comprised of many different ethnicities and cultural influences, which span the globe, influencing the traditions of wedding ceremonies. Traditions unique to cultural and religious backgrounds might be observed in a North American wedding. However, American influences have carried over and dominate older customs and superstitions around the wedding event. Weddings are considered by many to be the most important day in a person's life. Extreme care and detail is put into planning to insure a perfect day.

1. Types

   • North American weddings take place in various types of venues, including places of worship, resorts and hotels. The church is the most popular venue for North American weddings, often reflecting the backgrounds of the couple. Wedding chapels are also trendy venues, and the most renowned in the U.S. are located in Las Vegas, Nevada. They appeal to couples looking to wed and honeymoon in the same location and for a cheap price. Gardens and beaches are other types of venues that create a backdrop for a memorable North American wedding.

   Features

   • Order of service, religious customs, gifts, wedding party etiquette and ceremonial rituals vary depending on the background of the couple and their families. Common aspects of North American weddings are an intricately decorated wedding cake, a symbol of the couple's love (rings) and a wedding party of bridesmaids and groomsmen. North American weddings are not prearranged, as a bride and groom have the option of choosing their mate on the basis of love. The ceremony is either religious or civil. The father of the bride gives her away to the groom at the start of the wedding ceremony.

   History of White Wedding Dress

   • The history of the white wedding dress began with the British wedding of Queen Victoria to Albert Saxe-Coburg in 1840. Then the white wedding dress was a symbol of wealth and affluence because it could only be worn once due to the difficulty in cleaning it. North American brides adopted the trend and chose a white wedding dress to exude style and classiness as well as show off their wealth in order to imitate the wealth of the monarch. With the introduction of the television and the emergence of Hollywood stars, the white wedding dress has become a staple in North American weddings.

   Considerations

   • There is a traditional time line of events that take place around a couple getting married. The man traditionally proposes to the women. The couple gets engaged. Announcements go out announcing the engaged couple and an upcoming wedding date. A wedding takes place followed by a wedding reception. The reception features food and drinks for the attendees. Usually, the couple leaves the reception and goes directly to a destination to celebrate their honeymoon.

   Bouquet Significance

   • North American brides carry a bouquet of flowers. The flowers symbolize the bride's emotions toward the marriage. Intricate floral designs will include cascading arrangements or pomander balls wrapped in delicate fabric. Throwing the bouquet after the ceremony symbolizes the bride giving her good luck of love to the person who catches the bouquet.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: American weddings, North American weddings, North American, white wedding, white wedding dress, North American, wedding dress

How to find designer replica lingerie

find designer replica lingerie

It's interesting:
"This wedding takes place during a week when the web is all astir over ... 4-Feb-201There's nothing like a wedding around Valentine's Day."

Authentic designer lingerie can reach some pretty high prices, but designer replica pieces look just as good without emptying your wallet. You get the same great look and save money in the process. You can find these pieces in a variety of places, including neighborhood stores and from online sellers.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Check the fit of the lingerie before you buy it. Designers use different sizing measurements so a 34B in one bra may not be the same as another.

   • 2

     Pick lingerie based on what you like. You can find everything from panties and bras to corsets and nightgowns.

   • 3

     Check with stores that offer replica bathing suits, since many sellers may also carry replica lingerie. You can also look at your favorite clothing stores, as many are beginning to offer lingerie that looks designer without the high cost. Finally, you can check out any outlet malls in your area, where you may find replicas as well as the real thing mixed in.

   • 4

     Keep your eyes peeled the next time you're flipping through the channels on your television and stop at one of the shop from home channels. They often have great pieces at discounted prices that look just like the originals.

   • 5

     Look at the Lingerie Diva website (see Resources). This is one of the largest online lingerie stores and it features a wide variety of choices, including some that look like designer originals. Hustler Hollywood has both an online store and brick and mortar retail shops (see Resources). You'll find a large number of lingerie pieces there that look designer, but are actually much cheaper.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: designer replica, replica lingerie, that look, designer replica lingerie, find designer, find designer replica

How to organize a wedding checklist

organize a wedding checklist

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 ..."

Planning a wedding can be hectic, as there are many things to organize and remember. The easiest way to keep track of everything is to create a checklist--whether hand-written or on the computer--that includes everything that needs to be done so you can check each item off the list as it is completed. Organizing your checklist into something manageable is crucial to a successful wedding, as a disorganized checklist is likely to be tossed aside and forgotten.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Write out every major part of your wedding. Use headings such as "reception," "ceremony," "stationery," "rehearsal" and "flowers." Make a separate checklist for each major section if it makes it easier for you to manage.

   • 2

     List all the details that correspond with each section under the appropriate heading. For example, the "ceremony" category would include things such as "marriage license," "officiant" and "vows."

   • 3

     Note when you should address each detail. For example, choose your bridal party, wedding date and venues as soon as you get engaged or at least nine months before the wedding. Include the month when the task should be completed.

   • 4

     Leave a column open to write in details, such as the name of your officiant, the type of flowers you're using, the name and contact information for your vendors or anything that you need access to. Another column can be added for you to jot down ideas as you think of them and sort it out later.

Tips &- Warnings

• Sort your wedding checklist according to the time frame, then the heading and details if it makes it easier for you. Or, write out two separate checklists, a general guideline according to the time frame and a detailed checklist according to each section or event of the wedding.

• Make a wedding folder with your checklists, swatches of fabric, pictures of centerpieces and any other random thoughts or ideas you have for your wedding. Keeping everything together will help you stay organized.

• Keep a list of your vendors and their contact information.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding checklist, your wedding, according time, according time frame, checklist according

Miranda lambert costume ideas

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 ..."

Originally from Lindale, Texas, Miranda Lambert picked up her first guitar at age 17- this sparked the beginnings of her journey toward becoming a country music entertainer. Ten years later, Miranda is one of country music's top entertainers. In November, 2010 she received nine nominations in the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, the most nominations in one single awards show in the history of that show. Whether you wish to emulate her casual or formal style, here are ideas for your next Halloween or costume party.

1. Glamour/Photo Shoots

   • Miranda's style will vary, depending on whether she is posing for photos to include in her own album packaging or the cover of a magazine. However, photographers are sure to showcase her down-home country girl charm mixed with her I'm-always-gonna-tell-it-like-it-is demeanor.

   On Stage

   • Miranda wastes no time in working the entire space of any stage she steps on. Generally, this means donning a statement T-shirt or wife-beater paired with jeans and cowboy boots. Don't forget to bring along a pink guitar! Catch Miranda near a stage, and you'll notice that her pink guitar is usually not far behind her.

   Red Carpet

   • No matter what color gown she chooses, Miranda's red carpet look is polished and elegant. Her golden locks are pulled back in a simple ponytail or pinned back with a barrette. Both makeup and jewelry make a prominent presence but do not overshadow her dress.

   Redhead Named Bernice

   • The inspiration for Bernice is Miranda's song, "White Liar," on her Revolution album. Bernice makes an onscreen appearance in Miranda's "Only Prettier" video (see resources for link to official video). Bernice has a rockabilly chick look with her teased high auburn tresses, black leather jacket and oversized bright jewelry (think Michelle Pfeiffer in Grease 2 with an auburn wig). You can accentuate the look by adding bright red lipstick and smoky eye makeup.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: costume ideas, country music, lambert costume, lambert costume ideas, Miranda lambert costume

Hotels for wedding receptions in annapolis, md

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 wedding day is one of the most important events of life together as a couple. It is important to choose the perfect wedding reception location to celebrate. Hotels for wedding receptions in Annapolis, Maryland vary in location, amenities, cost and accommodations, so couples should do their research before settling on one.

1. Historic Inns of Annapolis

   • Historic Inns of Annapolis is a string of boutique hotels. According to the hotel website, the venue specializes in flawless weddings and receptions. There are many benefits to having a wedding reception here including deluxe accommodations for the bride and groom, access to colonial gardens for pictures, complimentary linens, candles and hurricane globes with candles.

     Historic Inns of Annapolis
     

     58 State Circle
     

     Annapolis, MD 21401
     

     410-263-2641
     

     historicinnsofannapolis.com

   O'Callaghan Hotel of Annapolis

   • The O'Callaghan Annapolis Hotel claims that it offers a true taste of Ireland and a unique style. This hotel gives couples exclusivity by only booking one wedding or reception per day. The venue can accommodate up to 110 guests and has all-inclusive packaging. The hotel can also offer a complimentary dance floor, cake cutting and sound system.

     O'Callaghan Annapolis Hotel
     

     174 West Street
     

     Annapolis, MD 21401
     

     410-263-7700
     

     ocallaghanhotels-us.com

   Loews Annapolis Hotel

   • Loews Annapolis Hotel promises personal attention and exceptional service. The space is able to accommodate from 50 to 500 guests for a wedding reception and has 14 rooms that are flexible. The staff is available to help clients with every detail of planning their wedding and reception.

     Loews Annapolis Hotel
     

     126 West Street
     

     Annapolis, Maryland 21401
     

     410-263-7777
     

     loewshotels.com

   Annapolis Marriott Waterfront

   • The Annapolis Marriott Waterfront is in a picturesque location sitting directly on the Chesapeake Bay. It is able to accommodate wedding receptions for 30 guests or 300. Weddings at the Annapolis Marriott Waterfront have even been featured on television shows, such as Platinum Weddings on the WE channel. There are many rooms to host a wedding reception and amenities, such as special room rates, are available for guests.

     Annapolis Marriott Waterfront
     

     80 Compromise Street
     

     Annapolis, MD 21401
     

     1-888-773-0786
     

     annapolismarriott.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding reception, Annapolis Hotel, Annapolis Marriott, Annapolis Marriott Waterfront, Marriott Waterfront, wedding receptions, Annapolis 21401

How to feed 25 people on less than 50

feed 25 people on less than $50

It's interesting:
"'It was two days before the wedding and I finally sat down to write my toast. Low and ... Everyone at the wedding said it was the best toast they had ever heard.' ..."

Learn put together a winning dining event from A to Z and spend less than $50 in the process.

Throughout the year many of us entertain. We entertain family and friends during the summer. We entertain during holidays. We entertain colleagues to commemorate project milestones. The one constant at these events is food. Victuals become family and social staples. They help solidify traditions we cherish. Even with the rising costs of groceries, there is a way to feed as many as 25 people on as little as $50.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Coupons
• Telephone

Instructions

1. • 1

     Create Your Invitations:
     

     Include options for three main dishes on the invitations. Ask those who respond that they'll be attending to check off one main dish they prefer and to note whether they would like to be a member of the event preparation team. Give yourself 3 to 4 weeks before the event to get a solid headcount. In addition, tally up the top two main dish selections. For online invitation sources, see:
     

     •- Evite (www.evite.com)
     

     •- Easy RSVP (www.easyrsvp.com)
     

     You can also set up your own email distribution list and send and collect RSVPs on your own.

   • 2

     Create Your Menu:
     

     Write down each food item, including spices and garnishments, you will need for the two main courses. This will be your grocery list (more about getting the most out of your trip to the grocery store appears later in this article). You can find free printable grocery lists at www.easyfreeprintables.com (see sample).

     Check with your local grocer for specials. You can search grocery stores in your area online to find deals. Most major grocers have an online presence. Just click on the link for your local grocer, type in your ZIP code and you're on your way. Grocers regularly display weekly ad details. Below are links to a few major grocers:
     

     •- Acme -- www.acmemarkets.com
     

     •- Kroger -- www.kroger.com
     

     •- Safeway -- www.safeway.com
     

     •- ShopRite -- www.shoprite.com
     

     •- Super Fresh -- www.superfreshfood.com
     

     •- Winn Dixie -- www.winn-dixie.com

   • 3

     Identify Your Event Preparation Team (include cooks, decorators and hosts):
     

     Get ready to have fun. If you ever thought about operating your own restaurant, here's your chance to step into that role. At least 2 weeks before the event, set up a day and time to meet with everyone who RSVP'd that they want to be a member of the event preparation team. This should be a simple get-together and should take no more than a half-hour to an hour.

   • 4

     Let each person pick one dish to prepare.
     

     As a tip, allow the "cook" to select the dish she'd like to bring. She's probably familiar with the dish and knows prepare it off the top of her head. Or she might have recently learned about the dish and wants to take a stab at cooking it for the first time. The more interested each cook is in the dish you assign him to, the greater the likelihood that the dish will be a mouth-watering treat. Make sure all menu items are covered.

     To ensure that you have enough cooks, assign each person to prepare a dish large enough to feed 10 people but no more. Keep it fun- prevent preparations from becoming burdensome. Before this first meeting ends, select two to three team members to accompany you to the warehouse grocery store when you make your bulk purchases. According to CBN.com, bulk food purchases at warehouse stores on average result in a 31 percent savings versus purchasing items in smaller quantities.

     For clear money savings, each team member collects a minimum of $20 of coupon and discount food store savings on the food items you will serve at the event. One to two Sunday newspaper coupon clippings should do it. Four team members equals a minimum of $80 in food savings. Five team members results in a minimum of $100 in food savings.

     Additionally, each team member is responsible for their own cooking pans, which they will bring with the dish they prepare. If you use six large aluminum foil baking pans, this is a savings of more than $30. Throughout the year cooks spend $8 to 10 per event for large aluminum foil baking pans. If you host five events a year and purchase four pans per event, this is easily a savings of well over $100. Sturdier aluminum foil pans can cost as much as $30 a piece, which would be a wider savings.

   • 5

     Create a Memorable Theme:
     

     During this first meeting with your team, brainstorm and create a theme for the event. For example, if you are cooking for a family reunion, for a theme consider "My Heart Belongs to My Family" or "Family Fun in the Sun."

   • 6

     Important Tips on Saving at the Grocery Store:
     

     Rather than focusing on the costs of food, focus on how much money can be found in a thick stack of coupons. As soon as you identify your team, start searching for coupon savings for the food items you will prepare. Browse your local Sunday newspaper. Daily community newspapers also carry valuable coupons. Newspapers are packed with loads of coupon savings. Brand-name food producers, such as Kellogg's, Nabisco and Kraft, provide coupons regularly at their websites. Keep in mind that each team member is to collect a minimum of $20 in savings from a combination of coupon and bulk food membership discounts. Don't think you can save hundreds of dollars at the grocery store? Check out the following sites:
     

     •- Cool Savings: www.coolsavings.com
     

     •- Free Coupons: www.freecoupons.com
     

     •- My Savings: www.mysavings.com
     

     •- Coupon Cabin: www.couponcabin.com

     Remember to buy in bulk. Are Sam's Club, Costco or another warehouse bulk food store running a special on the items you'll need for your menu? How about a discount grocer? Are any of the items on your menu being discontinued? Buying in bulk at warehouse stores may entitle you to receive a free gift card to use later. Check out www.bulkfoods.com for savings you can enjoy when buying in bulk.

     Stick to your menu items. It can be tempting to buy everything you see on sale or everything you see a great coupon for. An excellent way to avoid doing this is to shop separately for the event instead of shopping for the items at the same time you do your regular grocery shopping. Stay focused to realize greater savings.

   • 7

     Have Fun and Give Credit Where Credit Is Due:
     

     You and your team didn't do all that work for nothing. On the day of the event comes the real reward. Enjoy being with your guests. Share experiences you had building up to the event. Recognize and applaud each team member for what they did to make the event a success.

   • 8

     Do It Again:
     

     Build a team each time you host a large event. In time, you will become a pro at food costs savings, large event preparations and wrapping up a sizable get-togethers. You might learn more cost saving tips or become a much-requested event planner.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: each team, each team member, team member, aluminum foil, bulk food, feed people, grocery store

How to dress like carrie bradshaw

dress like carrie bradshaw

It's interesting:
"It was a stipulation for the wedding that the groomsmen weren't allowed to look better than the Best Man today and I'm pleased to say they have accomplished ..."

Dressing like "Sex and the City's" Carrie Bradshaw doesn't have to cost you a fortune, but it can still allow you to make a statement. Carrie's style is whimsical and very fashion forward. The clothing she wears exemplify her personality. She is not afraid of color, bold patterns or doing something different on the fashion front in the name of high style. If you enjoy layering clothing, adding accessories and pairing unique combinations of clothing together, you will enjoy dressing like Carrie Bradshaw.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• A variety of clothing
• Flower pins
• Stiletto heels
• Designer bags

Instructions

1. Dress Like Carrie Bradshaw

   • 1

     Watch several episodes of "Sex and the City" to get a feel for the way Carrie Bradshaw dresses. Take note of any outfits you really like or think you can easily recreate. Pay attention to details and take note of what it is you like about the particular outfit (color, style, accessories, etc.).

   • 2

     Look in your closet and find pieces of clothing that fit the type of outfit you are trying to build. Generally, Carrie Bradshaw wears very eclectic outfits. You can pretty much pair anything together and create an outfit you would see Carrie wearing in "Sex and the City." Keep in mind she is very fashion forward and, though vintage wear enters her wardrobe, she wouldn't be seen in anything frumpy or outdated.

   • 3

     Visit a second-hand store to locate other pieces that can be tied in with the ones you already own. You may need some pieces you can layer, handbags, sunglasses, shoes, and other accessories. Scarves and various types of see-through tops can be layered with other solid fabrics to create a very flowing Carrie-type outfit.

   • 4

     Choose a pair of stilettos that go with the outfit. Regardless of what outfit she wears, you very rarely see Carrie Bradshaw wearing anything on her feet other than high heels. She wears them with dresses, jeans, shorts and even swimsuits. Be sure to choose a pair that match the outfit, and also make sure you can walk easily in the stilettos.

   • 5

     Accessorize! Add details to the outfit in terms of accessories. Carrie Bradshaw is famous for her giant flower pins worn over the breast on shirts, jackets and dresses. She is also famous for wearing her engagement ring on a necklace, a horseshoe necklace (or two), a necklace that spells out her name and earrings that say "Carrie" in them. All these pieces can be custom-made online or found at jewelry stores.

Tips &- Warnings

• The more layers and the more outrageous the outfit, the more "Carrie Bradshaw" the outfit will be. Sarah Jessica Parker's character on "Sex and the City" is known for her over-the-top looks.

• Always accessorize. Carrie Bradshaw is known for her shoes, purses, belts, sunglasses, and of course, her flower pins. Don't be afraid to tack something out of the ordinary onto an outfit to make it unique.

• Avoid the Carrie Bradshaw look if you are going to the office or other professional event. Her clothing style (even when working at the Vogue office) wasn't always 100% professional.

• Be careful wearing tall heels. If you can't walk properly in them, it's best to trade the stilettos for a pair of flats to avoid injury.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Carrie Bradshaw, Carrie Bradshaw, dress like, fashion forward, flower pins, very fashion

Etiquette for renewing wedding vows

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 ..."

A vow renewal ceremony celebrates and reinvigorates a marriage. From small intimate gatherings to elaborately planned productions, wedding vow renewal ceremonies cater to the taste of the host couple. Like weddings, vow renewal ceremonies also have rules of etiquette.

1. Finances

   • The husband and wife typically pay for the vow renewal ceremony. According to theknot.com, the children of the couple of honor sometimes host the ceremony.

   Considerations

   • Vow renewal ceremonies do not have gift registries. Weddings have gift registries as a way for the guests to help the newlyweds build their combined household. Married couples already live together and do not need a gift registry.

   Significance

   • The single days of the husband and wife are long gone by the time a vow renewal ceremony is planned. Bachelor and bachelorette parties are not appropriate.

   Misconceptions

   • The wife should either walk down the aisle with her husband or with her children. According to idotaketwo.com, the father of the "bride" does not walk her down the aisle for a vow renewal ceremony because the father's approval or public show of support of the marriage is not necessary.

   Features

   • Vow renewal ceremonies do not have bridal attendants or wedding parties, only guests.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: renewal ceremonies, renewal ceremony, ceremonies have, down aisle, Etiquette renewing, Etiquette renewing wedding

How to book a band for a wedding

book a band for a wedding

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."

The music at your wedding reception is one of the most important aspects, keeping your guests occupied and content. If you want your reception to last past the cutting of the cake, hire a talented and classy band. Keep the tone of your wedding in mind before booking a band. If you are having a very elegant wedding, book a classy jazz band. If your wedding reception will have a more upbeat and laid back atmosphere, book a fun oldies band or a cover band that plays a mixture of hits.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Budget appropriately for your wedding band. Wedding bands are generally more expensive than DJs, as they play live music as opposed to recordings. A wedding band can also set the entire tone of your wedding reception, so decide what kind of band you are looking for with that in mind. Most bands have style specialties that they are known for playing, such as country or rock music.

   • 2

     Research wedding bands in your area. Contact friends or acquaintances who may have recently married, as they may have an idea of what kinds of bands are available. Use the Internet for additional research. Many websites, such as GigMasters, list wedding bands by city along with references, which should make your decision easier. Consult your wedding planner, who will also be knowledgeable on the subject.

   • 3

     Interview potential wedding bands. It's important to ask about price and to sample the style of the band. Just because a band advertises a certain style doesn't mean it is what you are actually looking for. Ask the band to play a song or two or you may find yourself unpleasantly surprised on your big day. If you don't like the wedding band, be polite about turning away their business. You don't need to offend anyone during the search.

   • 4

     Pay a deposit once you find a band that you would like to book. You may even be required to pay the entire amount to hold the band. If the band requires this, make sure you ask for references. This helps to ensure that you aren't being scammed. Professional wedding bands will have no problem providing a series of references.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, wedding bands, wedding band, wedding reception, your wedding reception, band that, book band

Envelope etiquette for invitations

It's interesting:
"And for those of you who don't know, this special day in the lives of Dave and Sarah also happens to be Chinese New Year! Or, as they call it in China."

It's easy to think that invitations are complete once they've been printed with the event information. However, if you care about proper envelope etiquette, there's more work to be done. Before dropping the invitations in the mail, make sure they are correctly placed in the envelopes and that the envelopes are appropriately stamped and addressed.

1. Placement

   • Place the invitation in the envelope with the printed side up. This ensures the recipient will be able to see the wording of the invitation as soon as the envelope is opened. Tissue paper is optional. If it is used, place one sheet of tissue paper over the printed text of the invitation.

   Postage

   • Calculate postage correctly. This will avoid the embarrassment of having your guests receive invitations with postage due. Take one complete invitation in the envelope to the post office. Have a postal employee weigh your envelope and tell you how much it will cost to mail. You can then purchase the proper amount of postage for your invitations. Keep in mind that if you are sending any envelopes to countries other than the United States, different rates will apply.

   Addressing

   • Handwrite the names and addresses on the envelope. Use a pen with blue, black or blue/black ink. Acceptable title abbreviations include Mr., Ms., Mrs., Jr. and Dr. The addressee's formal name should be used. For example, write "Mr. Michael Jones," not "Mr. Mike Jones."

   Families

   • Write each child's first name on the envelope if the invitation is meant for the whole family. Do not use "And Family." This rule applies if all members of the family live at the same address and the children are under 18 years of age. Proper envelope etiquette dictates that the addressees should be on two separate lines of the envelope. For example, the first line should read, "Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jones." The second line should state only the first names of the invited children, "John and Mary."

     A different rule applies if the invited children are adults who still live in the same home as their parents. In this case, the parents receive one invitation and each child older than 18 receives his own invitation.

   Unmarried Guests

   • According to the wedding planning website The Knot, unmarried guests who live together at the same address should both be listed on the invitation envelope. Each full name should be on a separate line. List names alphabetically.

     Never write "And Guest," even if the couple does not live together. As with unmarried guests who live together, both names of the couple that live apart should be on one envelope. Another option would be to send each member of the couple her own invitation at her own address.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: invitation envelope, live together, blue black, each child, Envelope etiquette invitations, envelope with

Engraving ideas for wedding rings

It's interesting:
"This wedding takes place during a week when the web is all astir over ... 4-Feb-201There's nothing like a wedding around Valentine's Day."

To express the importance of your marriage, it is a tradition to exchange wedding rings. Many people choose to have their wedding bands engraved. This adds a personal touch and a reminder of your love for each other that you can carry with you always.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Simple Engraving

   • If you are unsure what to engrave on your wedding rings, consider keeping it simple. Sometimes the most simple of phrases really do say it all. Consider engraving each other's names and the date that you got married. You can also put a simple phrase like "I love you," "Forever yours" or simply "Forever."

   Symbolic Meaning

   • If you are sentimental and wish to express a little bit of your relationship on your wedding rings, choose something that holds meaning for you as a couple. Think of a song that has a significant meaning to both of you and pick out the phrase that sums it up to engrave on your wedding rings. Consider songs that you heard on your first date or a song that was playing in the background when you first said "I love you" or had your first kiss.

     Another idea to help you symbolize your love for each other on your wedding rings is to choose a line from your favorite poem or a quote from a book or movie that has significance to you as a couple. You can also choose something that only you two know the meaning of. Perhaps you have a phrase that you say to each other or pet names that you call one another- these would make special, intimate engravings for your wedding rings.

   Wedding Vows

   • You can engrave a few key words from your wedding vows onto your rings. Some people like this idea because you are literally carrying around your promise to each other every day. Because wedding vows are generally too long to put on rings in their entirety, choose the part that means the most to you and your promise to each other.

   Monogram Engraving

   • Monogram engraving is the practice of taking the bride and groom's initials and intertwining them to create one image that is often ornate and artistic- mongrams represent two lives joined in marriage. Typically for this, the initial of the groom's last name is in the middle flanked by the initial of the bride's first name and then the initial of the groom's first name.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding rings, each other, your wedding, your wedding rings, choose something

How to host movie themed halloween parties

host movie themed halloween parties

It's interesting:
"The best man at my own wedding told me that one and it worked - for 15 years anyway, before she left me for someone short, fat and balding, who happened to ..."

Halloween is the perfect holiday for parties, allowing guests to let loose and play around creatively with costumes and characters. A movie-themed event gives guests inspiration for their wardrobe, and helps the host create a fun and exciting atmosphere that all party goers can participate in. Guests get to show their own interpretations of the characters and share favorite scenes, quotes and trivia. When you host movie-themed Halloween parties, you can create memorable events your friends will look forward to every year.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Character costume
• Scene-inspired decorations
• Movie memorabilia
• Movie-themed accessories
• Refreshments
• Movie DVD and CDs
• Movie-era music
• Screen capture software
• Printer paper
• Picture frames
• Trivia games
• Prizes
• Movie postcards (optional)

Instructions

1. • 1

     Consider the age and interests of your guests. Try to select a movie that you know most of your friends have seen and enjoyed. If there will be children present, choose a movie that's age appropriate and doesn't require racy costumes. Fantasy epic themes can be elaborate and fun, but remember your guests' budgets. Make sure they'll be able to create an affordable costume.

   • 2

     Select a film with plenty of characters. Epics, high school and war films are good choices because guests can dress up as the leads or as one of the many unscripted background characters. Movies with a definable style, like the black leather outfits and sunglasses of "The Matrix," make easy costume choices. Films with sequels work well, offering three films worth of characters to choose from.

   • 3

     Consider a movie that strongly depicts a certain era. Victorian period pieces or '70s disco films give guests the option of dressing the part without having to perfectly emulate one of the main characters.

   • 4

     Buy the DVD and soundtrack to the film. Playing the music to the movie during your party will help guests get into the mood. Run the movie at full volume, or display on mute to provide background images without distracting the guests. Play CDs from the era of the film to add to the official soundtrack.

   • 5

     Add some decoration to the outside of the house to entice your guests as they arrive. Fill the front yard with hay and cornstalks to indicate the Kansas farm for "The Wizard of Oz," and place a pair of fake legs with ruby slippers under the front porch. Set up a mock cemetery for a horror film theme, or rent an exotic car to park in the driveway for your James Bond movie party.

   • 6

     Set the stage inside with elements from the whole movie or a particular scene. Tack up streamers and hand-painted signs for a prom scene, or set up long tables with white cloths and elegant place settings for a wedding. Scary films like "The Others" can be easily recreated by draping white sheets over all of the furniture, drawing the curtains and keeping the lights dim.

   • 7

     Use movie memorabilia to add to the ambiance and as topics of conversation. Hang up movie posters and screen stills. Display any character figurines or props that you have. Use your computer to collect screen captures of memorable scenes from the DVD, and print them out. Frame these screen caps, and hang them on the walls or place on top of the tables.

   • 8

     Make movie-inspired food choices. Serve lamb, baclava, and other Greek food choices for a "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" movie party. Have an entire table of chocolate desserts for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Even small touches will add to the movie theme, like offering martinis for a James Bond party, or putting out bowls of red and blue M&Ms to symbolize the red pill vs. blue pill choice in "The Matrix."

   • 9

     Accessorize with fun movie-inspired pieces. Add some dead flowers with the blooms cut off for an "Addams Family" party. Put an umbrella stand at the front door to hold light sabers for your "Star Wars" event. Hang a disco ball in the den for your "Saturday Night Fever" dance party.

   • 10

     Play movie trivia games and offer prizes. Easily create your own game by asking every guest to bring a trivia question about the film. Provide the guests with paper, and have them write down their answers as you read all the collected questions. The guest with the most correct answers wins the prize. If you choose a mainstream film, you may find a ready-made Trivial Pursuit or Scene It! game for your party. Give away inexpensive plastic movie figures or key chains as prizes, or stretch your budget by giving away movie soundtracks, posters or other memorabilia.

Tips &- Warnings

• Movie postcards make great invitations to a movie-themed party. You can send snail mail cards or e-cards online.

• As the host, you should do your best to create a memorable costume. Showing dedication to your own party theme will entertain the guests as well as inspire them to participate more fully the next year. If you don't wear a costume or only make a feeble attempt, it can ruin the fun and atmosphere. Guests will feel foolish for spending time and money on their own costumes and will be less likely to join in for the next party.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: movie that, your guests, your party, create memorable, food choices

Different types of cadences in music

It's interesting:
"Ladies and gentlemen, I shall try to be brief. I do have a habit of rambling with my speeches, so you might feel like you've walked into the Oscar ceremony by ..."

Cadence is to musical composition what a punctuation mark is to a sentence. It can end a chord progression like a period, create a pause like a comma or add mystery like a question mark. A piece of music is incomplete, bland or confusing without the proper cadence. Four types of cadences--perfect, plagal, imperfect and deceptive--help shape and guide music to its natural conclusion. The examples of cadences will use the chords of C Major, music's most basic key.

1. Perfect Cadence

   • Due to its simplicity, the full or authentic cadence is the most commonly used progression to end a piece. The dominant or V chord returns to the tonic or I chord. In short, the music goes home. In musical notation it is written as V-I. In C Major, the chord progression is G-C. A masculine or strong finish is the major benefit of a perfect cadence.

   Plagal Cadence

   • A weaker--but still effective--cadence is the plagal. It sounds as if it is taking a nap. The progression is from the subdominant back to the tonic or IV-I. In C Major, the chords are F-C. The plagal cadence is often used to end a hymn (the "Amen" cadence) or in the middle of a piece because it lacks the power of the big ending. The main benefit is a more relaxed finish.

   Imperfect Cadence

   • Half or close also describe the imperfect cadence. It creates a musical pause and sounds incomplete. Instead of ending on the tonic, the imperfect cadence ends on the dominant, I-V. In C Major, the chords are C-G. The music can begin on any chord in the key as long as it ends on the V or dominant chord. It adds a sense of unresolved tension to a composition.

   Deceptive Cadence

   • This is the equivalent of a musical slight of hand--for where it ends, no one knows. The setup begins with the dominant chord that leads the listener to expect the tonic as the ending. The shock comes when the piece ends on any other chord except the tonic, such as V-IV or chords G-F. Other C Major chord examples include V-vi (G-Am), V-ii (G-Dm), and V-V7 (G-G7). The surprise ending effect is its purpose.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: dominant chord, cadences music, chord progression, Different types, Different types cadences, ends dominant, Major chord

Bridal shower centerpiece ideas with a mason jar

It's interesting:
"There's something special about a church wedding, but most of us here have to admit that we rarely set foot inside a church these days. In fact ..."

Mason jars, which are typically used for canning, can make simple yet creative bridal shower table centerpieces. Mason jar table decor is ideal for casual country- or garden-inspired showers. The jars make inexpensive as well as versatile decorative items. Mason jar decor ideas are limitless, so think outside of the vase or candle holder.

1. Floating Candle Jars

   • Centerpieces made with floating candles look eclectic and will cast a soft glow across the celebration table. Place decorative glass stones featuring hues such as green and pink that reflect the shower's color scheme in the bottom of the jars. Fill the jars three-fourths of the way with water and place a floating candle on top. Finish the look by tying a satin ribbon or piece of raffia around the rim if you desire.

   Picture Jars

   • A creative and fresh way to display sentimental photos is by placing them into Mason jars. Shower guests will enjoy looking at the images throughout dinner, and they'll give the table a personal touch. Simply place favorite photos, such as the couple's engagement pictures or black and white images of family members' weddings, into the glass Mason jars. Arrange the jars in the center of the dinner table as conversation pieces.

   Lacy Luminarias

   • Put vintage lace doilies to work as bridal shower table decor. To make the charming and romantic-looking jars, spray the doilies with adhesive spray and press them onto the outsides of the jars. You can jazz up the jars further by tying satin or velvet ribbons featuring the shower colors around the rims. Place small candles, such as tea lights, into the jars to complete the simple-yet-stunning table centerpieces.

   Flower Vase

   • Mason jars make country-inspired alternatives to traditional vases. To make the centerpiece, fill the jar with water. Create a bouquet out of the bride-to-be's favorite flowers, such as pink roses, yellow and orange daisies or purple hydrangeas. You can use a handful of wildflowers, which include black-eyed Susans and snapdragons, for a charming, summery display.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Mason jars, bridal shower, Bridal shower centerpiece, bridal shower table, centerpiece ideas

Outdoor wedding spots in kansas city

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 are interested in an outdoor wedding in Kansas City, Missouri, there are many beautiful spots to choose from. Either in downtown Kansas City or the surrounding areas, the types of venues range from gardens to rooftops. The optimal time to have an outdoor wedding in the Kansas City area is from April to October when the high temperature fluctuates between 60 degrees to 90 degrees.

1. Kansas City Public Library Rooftop Terrace

   • If you are a bibliophile or simply love downtown views, the Kansas City Public Library has a rooftop deck that is available for weddings and receptions. The rooftop can accommodate 200 guests. The space is decorated with plants and grasses and decorative lights at night. The library does not allow loud bands or DJs due to noise restrictions, but a low-key band is fine. You will need to provide your own catering and bar.

   Lone Summit Ranch

   • Located in Lee's Summit, Kansas, about 35 minutes from Kansas City, is the Lone Summit Ranch and Estate. Built in the early 1930's, Lone Summit is a working farm with over 650 acres of farmland and meadows as well as ten ponds and small lakes. If you choose Lone Summit, your outdoor ceremony will be under a large gazebo overlooking a lake. For the reception, your guests will move into a nearby hall, which is large enough for many hundred guests. Lone Summit provides the catering and bar services as well as an in-house DJ and on-site wedding coordinator.

   Terrace On Grand

   • Terrace On Grand is an indoor/outdoor event space in downtown Kansas City. The space is about 5,000 square feet and can accommodate a wedding on the rooftop deck with the reception either on the roof, or in the levels below. A nighttime wedding or reception would really highlight the sparkling views of the surrounding skyscrapers. There is a bridal suite set aside for the bride and her bridesmaids to get ready for the ceremony. Terrace on Grand does not provide catering, so an outside caterer is necessary to handle the food and bar. The space has room for 250 seated dinner guests.

   Meadowview Gardens

   • Located about 30 miles East of Kansas City in Bates City, Missouri in a quiet rural setting is Meadowview Gardens. The facility provides a gazebo surrounded by green meadows for the wedding ceremony. The on-site hall can accommodate up to 300 guests. Meadowview Gardens is an all-inclusive wedding venue. From tux rental, to flowers and the wedding cake, every aspect of the wedding ceremony and reception is handled in-house.

   Helen Cuddy Memorial Rose

   • Named after an avid gardener who lived to 103 years, the Helen Cuddy Memorial Garden is located at the Memorial Arboretum inside Antioch Park. Antioch Park is located in Shawnee, Kansas and is approximately 14 miles from Kansas City. The garden is available for weddings by reservation only. The roses bloom in June and July, so this is the best time to book the space. The garden can only be used for weddings, so your reception will need to be at another location.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Kansas City, Lone Summit, Meadowview Gardens, Terrace Grand, accommodate guests, Antioch Park, available weddings

Ideas for rustic wedding receptions

It's interesting:
"There's something special about a church wedding, but most of us here have to admit that we rarely set foot inside a church these days. In fact ..."

Rustic wedding themes are about using earthy colors, natural elements and the natural environment. Rustic receptions can be casual and warm or elegant and classy. When planning a rustic reception, the setting is the most important, followed by small touches like hanging lanterns for romantic lighting and twigs or branches included in centerpieces. Rustic ideas can come from primitive or Americana crafts as well, such as ivy and distressed wood decor.

1. Rustic Colors and Favors

   • Rustic or country colors are deep reds, burnt orange, yellow, browns, beige and greens. Include wedding theme colors in the reception decorations and even wedding favors. Wrap gingham ribbon in orange and yellow or red and beige around clear cube favor boxes filled with candy, or around cardboard boxes filled with flavored popcorn.

   Reception Setting Ideas

   • A rustic reception should be at places that have the old, country atmosphere. Some of these places can be old boat houses, fishing or hunting lodges, ski resort lodges, rustic barns, horse ranches or vineyards. TheLittleNell.com in Aspen, Colorado, features breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, at an elevation of 11,212 feet. After the ceremony, you can host a rustic wedding reception at the Aspen Mountain Club, where pine wood paneling, warm stone fireplaces, antique Austrian tables and hand-woven needlepoint rugs provide a country and cozy setting.

   Wedding Cake Ideas

   • A rustic wedding cake can feature country details such as maple leaves instead of flowers. The wedding cake can be the traditional butter cream filling and fondant icing, but the leaves can be in red, green, and orange in fall colors to mimic falling maple leaves. Add tan and red berry details on the bottom and throughout the cake, inspired by primitive country home decor. For a cake topper, use a dark red, primitive star instead of a monogram. The cake topper can be edible or a distressed metal piece.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Ideas rustic, Ideas rustic wedding, rustic wedding, boxes filled, boxes filled with, cake topper

How to estimate wine for a wedding

estimate wine for a wedding

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 ..."

Wine adds a touch of class to a wedding reception. Pairing wine effectively with the courses of the meal creates an enjoyable experience for your guests. Estimate the amount of wine you'll need for your wedding based on your menu, the number of guests and the amount of time you'll be serving the wine. Take into account whether the bar will be open serving beer or mixed drinks at the same time as wine. Plan on having too much wine rather than too little so that you have plenty for the celebration. Lower your costs by purchasing bottled wine by the case.

Things You'll Need

• Guest list
• Menu
• Calculator

Instructions

1. • 1

     Eliminate children, teenagers and non-drinkers from your guest list to narrow down your count of wine drinkers. Only eliminate people you know have a medical or social reason to not drink alcohol. Leave people on the list who may not normally drink or you've never seen drinking. Some people drink wine at festive occasions but otherwise do not indulge.

   • 2

     Plan on pouring four glasses of wine out of each standard 750-milliliter bottle of wine, and about 4.5 poured flutes out of each standard 750-milliliter bottle of sparkling wine.

   • 3

     Estimate one flute of champagne per remaining guest on the list for toasting. Count the number of flutes of champagne needed, and divide that number by 4.5, giving you the number of bottles needed. Round up to the nearest whole number, then add two bottles per 20. Have at least two extra bottles per 20 purchased available in case of an accidental spill or bad bottle. For instance, for 100 drinking guests, divided by 4.5, you would need 22.2 bottles. Round that up to 23, then add two, and purchase 25 bottles.

   • 4

     Estimate one glass of wine per guest per course. Add one additional glass of wine per person if you are not serving cocktails before or during dinner.

   • 5

     Divide the total number of glasses per course by four to get the total number of bottles needed. Round up to the next whole number, then add two bottles per 20 bottles needed. For instance, if you have 100 drinking guests, you would need 25 bottles for the salad course, so purchase 27 bottles of the wine you plan to serve with salad. If your meal consists of three courses, purchase 27 bottles for each of the three courses. Eliminate dessert if you are serving a champagne toast with cake, and calculate sparkling wine with the formula listed in Step 3. For a wedding serving 100 people with a salad and then a main course, no cocktail hour, and a champagne toast with cake for dessert, purchase a total of 81 bottles of wine and 23 bottles of champagne.

Tips &- Warnings

• If you are purchasing the wine on your own instead of through an in-house caterer, save money by purchasing wine and champagne by the case. Divide your total number of bottles needed by the number of bottles in a case (usually 12), and round up to the next whole case number. Leave unneeded wine corked and take it home to give as gifts or serve in your home throughout the year.

• Encourage responsible alcohol intake. Do not serve minors. Stop serving for an hour or more before the reception ends, and serve coffee and soft drinks. Have non-alcoholic choices available for designated drivers and non-drinkers. Reserve nearby hotel rooms for guests who are not able to drive home after drinking.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bottles needed, number bottles, number bottles needed, purchase bottles, total number

How to address the inside envelope of wedding invitations

address the inside envelope of wedding invitations

It's interesting:
"Wasn't the wedding ceremony beautiful? The highlight, of course, was Linda floating magically down the aisle. I'm sure we were all thinking exactly the same ..."

Etiquette and tradition dictate the proper way to address wedding invitation envelopes. Most invitations include both an outside and inside envelope. When addressing the inner envelope of a wedding invitation, you need only include the titles and last names of guests, with the use of first names reserved for the outer envelopes. Because there are so many titles available depending on the circumstances, take care to address the envelopes properly so as not to offend anyone.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Write the titles and last names of guests on the inside envelope . Do not Include first names or the street address on the inner envelope. Write the names neatly and centered on the envelope.

   • 2

     Address the inside envelope for married couples as &ldquo-Mr. and Mrs. Smith.&rdquo- When the wife uses her maiden name, write &ldquo-Mr. Smith and Mrs. Davis.&rdquo-

   • 3

     Include a guest when inviting a single friend. On the inside envelope write, &ldquo-Mr. Smith and Guest&rdquo- to avoid any confusion as to whether a guest is welcome.

   • 4

     For same-gender couples, write names alphabetically by last name. Write &ldquo-Ms. Robinson and Ms. Zirkle&rdquo- on the envelope. If the couple is married and share the last name, address the envelope as "Mr. Jake Jackson and Mr. Ron Jackson," so that the names still remain alphabetical.

   • 5

     Include the first names of children under 18 years of age on their parents' invitation. If children are over 18, then etiquette suggests that you mail them their own invitation. Write &ldquo-Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Sam and Jessica."

   • 6

     Write the names of unmarried couples who live together alphabetically. Write &ldquo-Ms. Arnold and Mr. Davidson.&rdquo-

   • 7

     Address the inner envelopes properly for divorced guests. Determine whether your female guest still uses her married name or if she uses her maiden name. Write "Mrs. Franklin and Guest" if she uses her married name, and write "Ms. Smith and Guest " if she has chosen to keep or revert back her maiden name.

   • 8

     Include medical degrees on the invitation. If the wife is a doctor, write &ldquo-Dr. Davis and Mr. Smith.&rdquo- If both husband and wife are doctors, write &ldquo-The Doctors Smith.&rdquo-

   • 9

     Write military ranks on the envelope. When including the husband&rsquo-s rank, write &ldquo-Colonel and Mrs. Smith.&rdquo- When including a woman officer, write &ldquo-Lieutenant Adams and Mr. Adams.&rdquo-

   • 10

     Address the envelope properly for a clergy member. Write &ldquo-The Reverend Goodman&rdquo- on the envelope or &ldquo-The Reverend Goodman and Mrs. Goodman&rdquo- for a married couple.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: inside envelope, ldquo-Mr Smith, Smith rdquo-, envelope wedding, first names

Western-style wedding ideas

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."

Host a Western-style wedding. Cowboys, boots, hats and denim are perfect for this event. The wedding of your dreams can be created with a few simple steps. Choose a location, purchase invitations, decorate and offer a hearty meal. Everyone will rave about it for years to come.

1. Location

   • Choosing a location for a Western-style wedding should be easy and fun. Sites such as a barn, field, church or backyard will suffice. A barn with hay bales and horses would be quite the setting for this event. Mountains or national and state parks offer trails for everyone to explore. Wouldn't a gazebo or location by a stream be a splendid idea?

   Invitations

   • Search online for Western-themed invitations. Many options are available such as images of cowboy boots or Western scenes. If the event is informal, use on-line invites. This will save money on postage and time. Guests can also RSVP or decline the invitation, which assists with planning.

   Dé-cor

   • Tables would look festive with a cowboy boot vase. Search online for one of these vases. Add some wildflowers for a beautiful arrangement. A "field wedding" would be great in spring or fall. Autumn would be even better. Pumpkins and hay bales could be used throughout for dé-cor. Benches could be used for rustic seating outdoors.

     If the dinner requires special seating, be sure to look for cowboy boot place card holders. Guests will surely love the authentic appeal. Tables would also look great covered with a bandana table cloth.

   Food

   • Set up a buffet-style pig-picking. Beverages could consist of tea, soda or alcoholic beverages such as beer or wine. Sides could include salad, corn on the cob, potato salad and baked beans. Check out a local warehouse club to purchase bulk items for the rehearsal dinner/reception.

   Wedding Attire

   • Denim wedding dresses are stylish and affordable. Pair one with a great hairstyle, boots and a beautiful bouquet. The bridal party could wear boots, denim skirts and Western-style shirts and carry a simple arrangement. Men could wear jeans, Western-style shirts and boots. They could accessorize with cowboy hats, vests and Western-style belts.

   Gifts for the Wedding Party

   • Buy horseshoe key chains and beer mugs for the wedding party.

   Entertainment

   • Of course, what would a Western-style reception be without "square dancing"? Hire musicians or get a few friends to play fiddles, banjos and other instruments. Play old time dance tunes and have a caller.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Western-style wedding, could used, could wear, cowboy boot, Search online, Tables would

Elegant traditional wedding gowns

It's interesting:
"The best man at my own wedding told me that one and it worked - for 15 years anyway, before she left me for someone short, fat and balding, who happened to ..."

Trendy wedding gowns may catch your eye, but if you want a look that will stand the test of time, an elegant, traditional gown is your best bet. These are white or ivory in color, made from a traditional fabric like lace or satin, and have one of several classic wedding gown silhouettes.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Ball Gown

   • Ball gowns have full skirts for dramatic style.

     The ball gown silhouette is also sometimes known at bridal boutiques as a "princess silhouette." The silhouette features a fitted bodice with a full, dramatic skirt and has the overall feel of a "fairytale wedding" dress. Ball gowns may be strapless or have spaghetti straps or sleeves. The silhouette can support such diverse bridal fabrics as satin, chiffon, organza, taffeta and tulle. It can be embellished with beading and lace. This dress is most appropriate for a large, formal wedding.

   Sheath

   • Sheath wedding dresses are simple and sleek.

     The sheath silhouette also is sometimes known as a column. The sheath dress has a sleek, narrow shape for a simple look that shows off the bride's figure. This silhouette looks good with a variety of necklines---such as the scoop-neck, V-neck, or strapless---and flowing materials like lightweight silk and satin. Because of its simple design, the versatile sheath dress is appropriate for everything from a beach wedding to a traditional church ceremony.

   A-Line

   • A-line wedding gowns are shaped like the letter "A."

     A-line dresses resemble ball gowns but feature a narrower skirt. Like the ball gown, the A-line features a fitted bodice and a skirt that flows from the waist, lending the dress a shape that's similar to the capital letter "A". The A-line silhouette is simple and classic, but it can be made more elaborate with lace overlays, beadwork or layers of organza. Like the sheath, the A-line is versatile and appropriate for a wide variety of wedding ceremonies.

   Mermaid

   • Mermaid dresses have flared skirts.

     The mermaid silhouette has a sleek, fitted shape like the sheath, but the material flares out at the bottom like a mermaid tail. Mermaid dresses are traditional bridal gowns with contemporary flair, often featuring strapless sweetheart necklines and embellishments like beading and tiers of organza. This chic, sophisticated style is most appropriate for formal and metropolitan weddings.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding gowns, also sometimes, also sometimes known, ball gown, Ball gowns