Wedding shower decor ideas for a cruise theme

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 ..."

A cruise ship themed wedding shower is ideal for the bride who is going off on a honeymoon cruise. Even if she is not, a bride who enjoys travel will appreciate this creative theme. From the invitations to the the room decor to the buffet table, incorporating cruise ship elements will create and impressive party space that won't soon be forgotten.

1. Invitation Decor

   • Create invitations with a cruise ship theme. For example, the front of the invitation should have a picture of a cruise ship, or the sun deck on the ship in the background. If you don't want a whole ship, you could go for a more simple graphic such as an anchor or ship's wheel. Use cruise-related wording in the invitation as well, such as, "-Set Sail for Lisa's Wedding Shower!"- or "-Cruise on over to the Lisa and Mike's wedding shower!"-

   Room Decor

   • Turn the party space into the sun deck of a cruise ship. Set up a wooden plank for the guests to walk on to get into the room. Place stacks of suitcases in different corners of the room and line up some lounge chairs along a wall. Hang life jackets or ship wheels on walls as well. Create a backdrop with a picture of a cruise ship on one wall or use it as a backdrop for photos. Set up classic cruise ship games in other areas of the room such as shuffleboard.

   Table Decor

   • Use tablecloths in shades of blue to represent the ocean, and crisp white plates or those lined with blue trim. For centerpieces, you can fill a class bowl with sand and seashells, ideal if the bride will be going on a tropical cruise for her honeymoon. Another idea is to place bright yellow flowers in vases to represent sunshine on the sundeck. Tie white bows around the backs of the chairs to contrast with the blue tablecloths.

   Buffet Table Decor

   • Serve a variety of international foods as they do on most cruise ships. If the bride will be cruising to a specific destination on her honeymoon, you could serve food from that particular country, or if there are multiple destinations, place the flags of the country next to the appropriate food. You could also serve a lot of seafood, as the cruise is on the ocean. Place miniature boats, and toy life floats around the food. For the shower cake, have one created with a ship on the water, and the words, "-Bon Voyage!"- written on it, or have the cake made in the shape of a cruise ship.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: cruise ship, bride will, cruise theme, decor ideas, decor ideas cruise, ideal bride

Weddings in teal and orange colors

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 large part of wedding planning is choosing the wedding colors. The colors will be reflected in the table lines, bridal party clothing and floral arrangements. If the bride and groom wish, they can also incorporate the colors into other decor, like the centerpieces and wedding favors, and even into the cocktails that are served -- and the bridal gown. Many brides opt for a combination of teal and orange, especially for summertime or outdoor weddings.

1. Stationary

   • Search for save-the-dates and wedding invitations that reflect teal and orange. Since this is a summer color combination, you can also find stationary with tropical images or warm-weather images. Consider having an image of a wave or beach, palm trees or butterfly on the stationary. The same image and colors can also be included on the program and menu.

   Bridal Party

   • Select bridal party dresses in either teal or orange and have them hold bouquets made of the opposite color. For example, if the bridesmaids wear teal dresses, they can hold orange flowers. Teal flowers aren't easy to come by - if the bride wants teal flowers, they may have to be artificially dyed. The groomsmen can also reflect the color scheme by wearing socks and a tie or vest of the same color as the bridesmaids' dresses.

   Food and Drink

   • Design a wedding cake with either teal or orange detail. Both colors together on the wedding cake may not look too chic, but one of the colors can look great. A ribbon in teal or orange can be placed on the bottom of each cake layer and thin designs in the color of choice can be drawn with icing on the cake. Ask the bartender to create colorful cocktails. They may be able to whip up delicious martinis in both teal and orange. The couple can often ask for a sample of the drinks during wedding planning to make sure they like the taste.

   Bridal Accessories

   • Shop for bridal accessories in either teal or orange. The bridal shoes, garter and jewelry can all be found in this color scheme. Even the dress can incorporate one of the two colors - a sash tied around the waist, beading or the tulle underneath the dress can be made in teal or orange.

   Reception Tables

   • Accent the reception tables with your color scheme. Table linens, including the table cloth and napkins, plus napkin holders and even the dishes can be teal and orange. The couple may need to purchase these items on their own, if the reception hall doesn't carry linens and table accents in these colors.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: teal orange, color scheme, either teal, either teal orange, bridal party, incorporate colors

About circus circus hotel

It's interesting:
"'I used your site to create my wedding speech. I dropped in lots of clever one- liners and it was a great success. This site gave me everything I needed and more.' ..."

A good part of the fun when traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada is deciding where to stay. The Circus Circus Hotel, located on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, has been a favorite destination for families and individuals for years. Since its grand opening in 1968, Circus Circus has been featured on the big screen in such films as Diamonds Are Forever, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

1. Casino Floor

   • The casino floor inside Circus Circus is quite aptly described as a circus. Live circus acts including clowns, jugglers, acrobats and trapeze artists entertain daily from 11:00 a.m. until midnight. A carnival also provides activities and games for all ages. Try your had at poker, spin the roulette wheel, take a pull on the slot machines, or try your luck at over 80 table games.

   Rooms

   • The hotel claims to offer one of the best values on the Las Vegas Strip. All rooms include cable TV and pay channels. Also included are hair dryers, an iron and ironing board, and wireless Internet. The Tower Rooms are handsomely decorated and spacious. The Manor Rooms are very comfortable and include refrigerators, self parking and a swimming pool.

   Entertainment

   • Circus Circus has in indoor adventure park, an array of shopping boutiques, world class circus acts and three Walter's Golf courses.

   Dining

   • Circus Circus operates several restaurants from The Steak House to the Circus Buffet. A Casino Cafe, a Westside Deli and Coffee House are also available.

   Weddings, Birthdays, Bachelor Parties

   • Circus Circus has its own Las Vegas wedding chapel. It has packages for weddings, birthday parties and receptions. A full service salon is located on site.

   Fact

   • Circus Circus covers so much acreage and has so many guest rooms that it offers an aerial shuttle and minibuses for its guests.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Circus Circus, About circus, About circus circus, circus acts, Circus Circus, Circus Circus

Garden wedding locations near houston, texas

It's interesting:
"Learn connect what's happing in the news to the theme of weddings or marriage, the stereotypical characteristics of a groom, the duties of a best man, ..."

Nothing is more romantic than a garden wedding during the spring, summer or fall months. In the spring or in the fall, garden weddings combine with the beauty of nature and the loving relationship between the wedding couple to provide a picturesque backdrop for an ideal wedding. Houston, Texas, is a diverse city with a number of garden wedding settings for couples to choose from.

1. Downtown Houston

   • With the 10th largest population in America, Houston is a large city that offers many choices when it comes to selecting a venue for a garden wedding ceremony or reception. Ashton Gardens in downtown Houston is set within a private forest that offers a secluded site for couples to exchange their vows and host their wedding receptions. Courtyards feature fountains, and the grounds are landscaped. An on-site wedding coordinator and culinary team help couples plan every detail of their day. Couples can marry in early morning or sunset ceremonies in wooded surroundings, or opt to use their indoor chapel. Ballrooms are available for receptions.

     Another downtown Houston garden wedding site is the Courtyard on St. James Place. Located just minutes from the Galleria area in Houston, the Courtyard features ivy-covered walls, hanging plants and trees. Couples can host an outdoor patio wedding ceremony in the Courtyard and have an indoor wedding reception for larger parties. The establishment features wrought-iron gateways and sculpted arches.

   North and West Houston

   • Hidden in north Houston, Shirley Acres offers 13 acres of secluded woodland. Couples can hold their wedding ceremony on their outdoor lawns surrounded by large fern trees, tropical flowers and wooded glens. Or, their indoor chapels with many windows offer views of the surrounding gardens for couples who want an indoor ceremony with the garden in the background. An on-site wedding coordinator helps couples plan ceremony and reception details.

     In the western portion of the city, the Gardens of Bammel Lane is located between the Westheimer and West Alabama neighborhoods in the River Oaks area of Houston. Private grounds feature a few quaint English cottages and an English conservatory that you can reserve for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Their grounds are accented with Victorian lamps and wrought-iron gates. The conservatory was imported from London and features an "Ogee" or "S"-shaped roof. Gazebos, flower beds and walkways fill the grounds.

   Baytown

   • Located on the eastern edge of the greater Houston metropolitan area, Baytown is close to the Gulf of Mexico and provides a waterfront setting for a garden wedding. Enchanted Gardens accommodates outdoor and tented garden wedding ceremonies and receptions. The property can accommodate parties of up to 200 guests and provides touches like a rose petal-covered walkway, chair covers and bows, flower arrangements and a release of doves.

   Sugar Land

   • Southwest of Houston proper, Sugar Land is also considered a part of the greater Houston metropolitan area. The Great Oaks Manor specializes in weddings for parties of less than 200 and can facilitate indoor and outdoor garden weddings. The property is a Southern plantation home with two acres of lawns and gardens, an antique white gazebo and a garden room for indoor or outdoor receptions.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: garden wedding, wedding ceremony, area Houston, ceremonies receptions, ceremony reception, couples plan, garden wedding

How to have a harrison ford movie marathon

have a harrison ford movie marathon

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 ..."

Born in Chicago in 1942, Harrison Ford almost gave up on acting for a career in professional carpentry. Luckily for Hollywood, he soon scored the role of Han Solo in the popular "Star Wars" movies and the rest is history.

Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. • 1

     Watch the 1973 teen comedy-drama "American Graffiti." Harrison Ford played minor character Bob Falfa alongside major stars Richard Dreyfuss and Ron Howard, and this role got him recognized and considered for outstanding roles to come.

   • 2

     Watch the original three "Star Wars" movies: "Star Wars" (1977), "Star Wars: Episode V--The Empire Strikes Back" (1980) and "Star Wars: Episode VI--Return of the Jedi" (1983). Ford co-stars as the well-known Han Solo, who teams up with Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), R2D2, C3PO and Chewbacca as they go on their quest to defeat Darth Vader and his evil empire. These films gained a huge cult following and are still iconic in the film industry today.

   • 3

     Watch Ford star as Indiana Jones in all four installments that detail the adventures of this archaeologist: "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981), "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" (1984), "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" (1989) and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (2008). The original three films in the '80s further launched Ford's career that was kickstarted by the "Star Wars" films, making him an action/adventure film icon through today when the recent installment in 2008 was released.

   • 4

     Watch the 1993 action crime-drama "The Fugitive." Ford stars as Dr. Richard Kimble, a man unjustly accused of killing his wife so he sets out to find the real killer. Co-stars include Tommy Lee Jones and Julianne Moore.

   • 5

     Watch the action movies "Patriot Games" (1992) and "Clear and Present Danger" (1994). Ford stars as CIA analyst Jack Ryan, who first interferes with an IRA assassination, then finds himself involved in an illegal war fought by the U.S. government against a Colombian drug cartel in the sequel.

   • 6

     Watch the 1995 romantic comedy "Sabrina," in which Ford stars as the handsome and dashing Linus Larabee who finds himself unexpectedly distracted by the ugly duckling turned beautiful swan Sabrina (Julia Ormond).

   • 7

     Watch the 1997 action drama "The Devil's Own." Ford portrays Tom O'Meara, a cop who is unaware that his house guest Rory Devaney (Brad Pitt) is actually a top Northern Ireland IRA terrorist.

   • 8

     Watch the 1997 action thriller "Air Force One." Ford plays the president of the United States, who is aboard Air Force One with his family when hijackers seize the plane and he must work to defeat them.

   • 9

     Watch the 1998 adventure romance "Six Days Seven Nights." New York magazine editor Robin Monroe (Anne Heche) and gruff pilot Quinn Harris (Ford) must put aside their mutual dislike for each other when they find themselves crash-landing on a deserted island and must work together to survive.

   • 10

     Watch the 2002 action adventure "K-19: The Widowmaker." Aboard the K-19 submarine during the Cold War are Captain Alexei Vostrikov (Ford) and executive officer Mikhail Polenin (Liam Neeson), two men who are constantly butting heads regarding their mission. When the submarine begins to leak, they must work together with their crew before they sink.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Ford stars, must work, 1997 action, action adventure

How to make a wedding chuppah

make a wedding chuppah

It's interesting:
"This wedding really couldn't come at a better time for anyone. Gary will probably be bald by this time next year. And Annabelle's just found out that ..."

Before renting a wedding chuppah, consider making one yourself using common materials found around your home or at your local department store. A chuppah is traditional to Jewish weddings and symbolizes the new home that the couple will make once they are married. The wedding chuppah has four open sides that close friends or family members hold during the wedding ceremony- however, it is becoming popular to have the chuppah standing on its own and ready to go for the wedding.

Things You'll Need

• 4 large flowerpots
• 4 2-foot-long PVC pipes 2 inches in diameter
• Cement
• Masking tape
• 4 1 1/2 inches wide by 7- to 8-foot-long wooden dowel rods
• Soil
• Flowers or plants
• Large sheet of fabric

Instructions

1. • 1

     Patch any holes in the bottom of the flowerpot with masking tape. Place the PVC pipes in the center of each flowerpot.

   • 2

     Hold each PVC pipe firmly in place. Pour in the cement to fill one-third of the flowerpot with cement. Allow the cement to dry overnight.

   • 3

     Insert the wooden dowel rods into the PVC pipes. Ensure that the dowel rods are standing straight. Add more cement if there is too much weight on the PVC pipes.

   • 4

     Fill each flowerpot with soil. Add flowers or plants to the soil to hide the PVC pipe and the cement.

   • 5

     Measure the large sheet of white fabric. The length of the fabric depends on how far apart you will place the flowerpots.

   • 6

     Make two rows of flowerpots, placing two pots in each row. Measure the pots to ensure that you place them at an equal distance so that the wedding chuppah is not off balance.

   • 7

     Attach the wood dowel rods to the fabric. Use a washer and screw on top of each dowel rod, and puncture the corners of the fabric to attach it to the rods. You can also sew loops onto the fabric canopy, or glue foam to the end of the dowel rods and secure each corner of the canopy with a zip tie.

   • 8

     Decorate the flowerpots and dowel rods. You can stain the dowel rods a different color, add ribbon to the flowerpots or drape tulle around the flowerpots and dowel rods.

Tips &- Warnings

• Ask friends and family members to decorate a square piece of fabric for your wedding. Have the fabric squares turned into a quilt for your wedding chuppah.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: dowel rods, wedding chuppah, flowerpot with, each flowerpot, family members, flowerpots dowel

Greek goddess style wedding gowns

It's interesting:
"At a time of the year when so much of the life around us is being born and renewed, how appropriate it is that we have gathered on this day to witness Paul and Linda begin their new journey as husband and wife. Spring truly is the season of hope and love, and a great symbol of new beginnings...and I could not imagine a better time to plan such a very special event. For the rest of our lives, I don't believe anyone here could ever think of Spring time without having great memories of today and thinking wonderful and loving thoughts about the two of you."

Grecian style wedding dresses became popular in the United States from 1810 to 1820, according to Elizabeth Shimer’-s “-The Wedding Gown Book.”- During that time “-stays,”- also known as corsets, were less-worn in bridal fashion, as women opted for the more flowing gowns. The dress is still popular in bridal couture, often cut in layers of lightweight fabric, such as chiffon or crepe-de-chine. This fabric is gathered together at the waist and shoulders to create various toga-inspired silhouettes.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. The Column Dress

   • One of the simplest Grecian goddess wedding gowns is the column dress, which has been featured in the couture collections of New York-based Heidi Weisel. The minimalistic gown has a similar cut to the sack dress, except the fullness is gathered along the shoulders, creating a soft fold or cowl around the neckline. In some designs, there is a rhinestone clasp along the shoulder, which help secure the gathers. The wedding dress is cinched at the waist -- which creates vertical folds along the flounce -- and it can be embellished with a rope-like belt or sash.

   Asymmetrical Gowns

   • In asymmetrical Greek goddess dresses, the soft folds are often gathered along one shoulder, instead of two. Featured in past bridal collections, such as New York’-s Vera Wang, asymmetrical gowns often feature a bodice that has heavy pleating on an angle, rather than vertically. These folds can be accented with a sash, which in some cases, zigzags around the waist, helping to keep the skirt's many folds in place. A rhinestone clasp can be placed along one shoulder to add a bit of glitz to the wedding attire.

   The Empire Waist

   • The empire waistline is another silhouette featured in Grecian-style wedding dresses. Instead of the natural waistline, the dress is cinched right under the bosom. The shorter bodice is often constructed with tight broomstick pleating, which can be accentuated with an embellished belt. The flounce is longer in this style of wedding gown —- which can allow for a full or straight flounce. This captivating wedding gown has been included in the past collections of New York's Nicole Miller.

   Tea-Length Dress

   • Not every Grecian goddess gown is ground-grazing length, some dresses fall between the knee and mid-calf. The tea-length dress is an abridged Grecian gown, which has been included in the past collections of Los Angeles-based designer Monique Lhuillier. Like many Greek-inspired dresses, this shorter version features a pleated bodice and layers of flowing fabric which are gathered together at the waistline. Tea-length wedding dresses can be finished simple or ornate accents, including a beaded belt or rhinestone clasping.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: style wedding, along shoulder, Greek goddess, wedding dresses, wedding gowns

February wedding colors

It's interesting:
"Kick things off with a topical wedding-themed icebreaker, as this will show everybody that you've been thinking about the speech right up to the last minute."

In many parts of the country, February is a downright dreary month. Choosing the right colors for your wedding can make your guests feel as though they've left the bleak weather behind and entered a joyful sanctuary. Bright colors will make everyone feel cheerful, but primary colors can look juvenile, so use these shades sparingly.

1. Red or Pink

   • Since February is the month of love, thanks to Valentine's Day, shades of red are appropriate for a wedding held this month. Although red or pink will put all your guests in a festive mood, using these colors together can make your reception look more like an elementary school Valentine's Day party. Shades like magenta or dusty rose look more modern and adult. Choose one or the other as the main color and then use the other as an accent.

   Amethyst

   • Amethyst is the birthstone for anyone born in February. Whether either of you have a February birthday or not, this deep shade of purple is beautiful without being too feminine to alienate any male guests. Choose a neutral accent color like gold, silver or brown to soften the color palette. Amethyst is flattering to most skin tones, so bridesmaids can wear dresses in this shade. For the reception decor, fill vases with amethyst marbles to create centerpieces or use deep purple napkins at each place.

   Silver and Blue

   • Since February falls in the heart of winter, celebrate the season by using silver and shades of blue. Silver complements every shade, from baby blue to deep navy. Pale shades of blue will create an icy, wintry feeling, while darker shades are more cozy and romantic. Since silver is a light color, these two shades can be used throughout the wedding without competing with each other. Cover each table with a blue tablecloth and use silver vases and champagne flutes on the tables. Hang glittery snowflakes from doorways and buy an ice sculpture with your monogram. When guests walk into the reception, they'll feel as though they're entering a winter wonderland.

   Purple, Green and Gold

   • Set the stage for a party by using the colors of Mardi Gras. The date changes every year, but this holiday is always celebrated in either February or March. Use the traditional purple, green and gold sparingly, since these colors are so bright they could be overwhelming. Carry a bouquet of purple flowers tied with gold ribbon and choose purple or green bridesmaids' dresses. Use white or gold table settings at the reception and create centerpieces with purple and green flowers.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: create centerpieces, February wedding, February wedding colors, feel though, feel though they, look more

Traditional italian wedding ceremonies

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."

Italian wedding ceremonies traditionally take place in churches, known as "sposarsi in chiesa." Most couples follow certain traditions and folklore, one of which is the tying of a large bowed ribbon on the doorway of the church on the day of the wedding to let passersby know that a marriage is to take place. The couple also ties the same kind of ribbon on the doors of all the houses from the bride's home to the church to signify the "tying of the knot."

1. The Way to the Church

   • On the morning of an Italian wedding, the groom fetches the bride from her house and walks her to church, but he cannot see her until she stands beside him at the altar. This is where the veil serves to hide the bride from her groom as well as protect her from evil spirits. Another tradition is for the groom to wait in front of the church and present his intended with a bouquet of fragrant herbs when she comes, again to ward off evil spirits.

   Path Obstacles

   • When the bride and groom walk together to the church, their neighbors place obstacles in their path to find out how they react to certain domestic situations. If they throw a broom by the bride's path and she picks it up, she will be a good housekeeper. If they put a child in their way, the couple should both stop and help the child to signify that they will be good parents.

   The Ceremony

   • The "sposalizio," or church service, usually includes a Catholic mass and the marriage rite. During the ceremony, the bride stands to the left of the groom, so that the man's right hand is free to defend with a sword, should a rival come to take her away. Ancient Roman law required 10 witnesses at the wedding, so they enlist bridesmaids and groomsmen who are in almost similar attire as the bride and groom to confuse jealous evil spirits.

   Timing

   • Most weddings take place on Sunday because Italians consider it the luckiest day for the sacrament of matrimony. Weddings occur throughout the year except during Lent and Advent, as well as the month of May, since it is especially set aside for the veneration of the Virgin Mary. Marrying in the month of August is also unpopular because Italians believe that this month invites sickness and bad luck.

   Wishes of Luck

   • At the end of Italian weddings, the newlyweds commonly break a vase or wine glass. They count the broken pieces to supposedly foretell the number of years the couple will be happily married. As they exit the church, guests throw rice or paper confetti at the newlyweds to wish them good fortune. Afterward, the newlyweds release a pair of doves into the air to represent love, peace and happiness.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: evil spirits, take place, wedding ceremonies, because Italians, bride from, bride groom

Traditional hindu wedding gifts

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."

Hindu weddings are traditionally lavish affairs, and it may be difficult for someone outside that culture to know what to buy for the bride and groom. If you will be attending a Hindu wedding, keep in mind that most gifts that would be appropriate for a Western wedding are also appropriate for a Hindu one. As long as you avoid cultural taboos, like products made with leather, your gift will be appreciated.

1. Money

   • Money is a traditional gift in Hindu culture, whereas it may be seen as tacky at many Western weddings. Choose a dollar amount that suits your budget and also ends in a 1, like $51 or $101, since numbers ending in 1 are auspicious in Hindu culture. Because money is frequently given as a wedding gift, many Indian shops and websites sell envelopes specifically designed with this gift in mind.

   Silver

   • Silver is inherently valuable, and gifts in silver can be functional as well. Silver is also considered symbolic of future success, in Hindu culture. Silver jewelry is appropriate if you wish to give a gift to either the bride or the groom, although gifts with both partners in mind may be more significant to the union. Silver household utensils, such as cutlery or serving ware, salt and pepper grinders or barware are all suitable gifts for the Hindu couple. A set of his and hers wristwatches is a nice way to give jewelry for both parties.

   Household Goods

   • Just as in Western weddings, newlyweds in Hindu weddings will need things to help them set up their new home together. Help the couple get their home decorated and functional, and always consider the style and taste of the couple when making your selections. If the couple loves to cook, consider helping them with a kitchen appliance such as a nice food processor, electric mixer or a set of baking dishes. If the couple is fond of hosting guests for lunch or dinner, a tea or coffee service makes a lovely gift that will be useful with company. Rugs, floor cushions, candle holders and wall hangings are also all acceptable gifts, although they may require a more intimate knowledge of the couple's taste than a small household appliance would.

   Gifts That Pamper

   • You might prefer to buy the couple an experience that they may use after they return from their honeymoon. Consider getting the couple a voucher for a spa day or luxury hotel for them to use after the wedding. Vouchers for a favorite restaurant are nice, as well. The couple will appreciate being able to pamper or splurge on themselves without doing so out-of-pocket when first starting out their life together.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Hindu culture, bride groom, hindu wedding, hindu wedding gifts, Hindu weddings, much more, their home

How to make a doublelayer cake

make a double-layer cake

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."

Any special occasion will give you the chance to show off your baking skills and save money by making a double-layer cake on your own. If you have limited space in your kitchen, you might think you don't have enough elbow room for creating such desserts, but it really is as easy as making a regular cake with a just few added steps.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

• 2 8-inch cake pans
• Serrated knife
• Cake mix and ingredients
• Parchment paper
• Flour
• 1 stick of butter
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Sharp knife
• Cake frosting and filling
• 2 plates

Instructions

1. • 1

     Trace the shape of each baking pan onto your parchment paper with the pencil. Cut out the shapes with your scissors. Parchment paper is the most important tool in creating a smooth surface to easily apply frosting to the double-layer cake.

   • 2

     Rub a stick of butter on the bottom of the pan and on the sides. Toss in a pinch of flour. Tilt your pan toward you, so that the flour slides to the edge of your pan. Lightly tap the sides of your pan as you turn the pan in a circular motion. Repeat until the bottom and sides of your baking pan are completely covered by flour.

   • 3

     Place the parchment paper cutouts in the pans. Prepare your cake batter according to the recipe or to the directions on the package. Pour half of the batter into each pan, then put them in the oven at the heat setting and for the time period recommended by the recipe or instructions.

   • 4

     Remove the pans from the oven as soon the time is up, and let the cakes cool for 15 minutes. Run a knife along the edge of the pans, and flip them over onto a plate. Lift the pan, then remove the parchment paper from the bottom of each cake layer, and carefully turn the cakes over.

   • 5

     Cut off the rounded tops of the cakes using a serrated knife. This should create a flat surface. Let cakes cool for another 45 minutes, then spread cake filling on the top of one the cakes.

   • 6

     Place the other cake on top of the first layer bottom side up. Spread frosting over the second layer and on the sides of both layers. Put the frosted double-layer cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: double-layer cake, bottom sides, cakes cool, knife Cake, parchment paper, sides your

How to take a race shop tour

take a race shop tour

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 ..."

Visiting North Carolina is an exciting adventure- visiting North Carolina as a race fan is something completely different. This state is home to nearly every major race shop in the NASCAR world including the most popular teams. Almost all of the shops are open to the general public, meaning that you can tour all of the shops and see what goes on in a real NASCAR race shop. As long as you have a few days to spare, a dependable car and a good map, you’-ll be ready to go.

Things You'll Need

• Map
• Car
• Highlighter

Instructions

1. • 1

     Grab a map of the race shops in the state. You can buy a map from the Race Shops website or you can get a map of your own for free from the Carrabus County Visitor’-s Center in Kannapolis, North Carolina.

   • 2

     Plot your route using a highlighter. Run your highlighter along the roads so you can see exactly where you’-re going and the major roads you’-ll take to get there. This will help you avoid sitting in the car trying to figure out where to go next.

   • 3

     Plan on spending an entire day in Mooresville, North Carolina where the majority of the race shops were once located. You can find Penske Racing, JR Motorsports, Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, Kurt Busch Inc., Kasey Kahne’-s race shop and several more within a twenty minute drive.

   • 4

     Take your trip to the northern part of the state to get a feel for the race shops up there. Kevin Harvick Inc., Richard Childress Racing and Bill Davis Racing are all located in the High Point, Kernersville and Welcome area. You’-ll even have time left to see the Petty Museum and the Richard Childress Vineyard.

   • 5

     Spend a day in the area around Charlotte. Concord is home to Hendrick Motorsports, Roush Racing and Chip Ganassi Racing while Statesville is where you’-ll find Evernham. The three race shops in Concord are less than ten minutes away from each other.

Tips &- Warnings

• A helpful tip is to buy a map of the Charlotte, Concord and Mooresville area. You’-ll be spending a lot of time in this area and the smaller roads aren’-t listed on the maps of the race shops. You can easily find your way around town and avoid traffic if you have a local map.

• If you’-d prefer to let someone else do the driving you can pay to take a race shop tour. The Race Shop Tours website has several tour packages available that cover most of the main shops in North Carolina.

• Don’-t plan your trip thinking you’-ll see drivers at every stop. The drivers rarely venture into the race shop and you’-re more likely to see workers than drivers.

• Avoid race week if you want to have some time to yourself. During event weeks the race shops are crowded with tourists and race fans.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: race shop, North Carolina, race shops, race shop tour, shop tour, take race

About the mother of the groom

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."

The parents of the groom may feel a bit left out at a wedding that gives so much more acknowledgment to the bride's side of the family. The mother of the groom may feel especially excluded. However, her role is not clearly defined by tradition, textbook or wedding planners' goings-on. The upside to that is that mothers of the groom can define that role for modern times and create traditions all their own.

1. History

   • The first toast is often given by the mother of the groom. Although there are no rules about such things, a mother of the groom often is given this special recognition. She often gives a toast that praises her son, especially his choice in a mate. She may tell funny stories about the groom's childhood that will embarrass him in a good-natured way. If technology permits, she may even choose to show a slide or pictures of the baby boy she raised.

   Significance

   • A groom should dance with his mother after the first dance between father of the bride and the bride herself. Attention and recognition should be given to the mother of the groom, the first woman in his life. The mother of the groom is typically seated in the front row on the groom's side alongside his father. If there is a divorce in the family, alternate arrangements are sometimes made.

   Considerations

   • The mother of the groom typically wears a mature, classic and elegant dress that is very formal. The colors for her attire are usually light and sometimes neutral. White or black is never considered proper for the mother of the groom. It's always a good idea to get the bride's feedback to see if she has any preference for attire for those not in her immediate wedding party. She may want to go shopping for her big day with her future mother-in-law, and that's a good way to get the relationship started off on the right foot.

   Effects

   • Advice should be given to the bride by the groom's mother only if the bride seeks such advice. Part of the tradition of "something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue" is sometimes taken care of by the groom's mother. The bride should traditionally obtain all of these objects and keep them on her for the wedding. Sometimes the mother of the groom educates the bride about some traditions of the world and personal traditions in her own family. If the bride and her future mother-in-law are on extremely good terms, the formal wedding rules need not apply. There have been some unconventional situations where the bride will ask her future mother-in-law to be a part of her own bridal party. That's rare, but it's fun when that occurs. Some of the best weddings have thrown tradition to the wind and went for what mattered to the couple as people.

   Warning

   • Any tensions or misgivings the mother of the groom may have about her son's choice in a bride should be stifled on his special day. While she may wish for a daughter-in-law that is nothing like the bride walking down the aisle, it is not the choice of the mother of the groom. Any second thoughts or misgivings should be handled well in advance of the special day. On the wedding day itself, the mother of the groom traditionally shown nothing but goodwill towards the bride. Affection for the son is known to now be seen as affection for the two as husband and wife.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: mother groom, future mother-in-law, About mother, About mother groom, bride should, given mother, given mother groom

How to assemble a tiered wedding cake

assemble a tiered wedding cake

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 ..."

One of the first things a wedding planner thinks of when planning a wedding is the cake. Wedding cakes add personality and style to a wedding's decor. This is particularly the case when it comes to tiered wedding cakes. Though you can have your tiered wedding cake professionally constructed, this can be very expensive. You can avoid this cost by constructing your own tiered wedding cake. With the help of a few items that can be found around your kitchen, this project can be completed in a relatively short amount of time.

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Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Frosting
• Scissors
• Wax paper
• 8 Cake dowels
• 3 Frosted cake tiers
• 2 Cardboard cake plates

Instructions

1. • 1

     Place the second-tier cake on top of the wax paper. Use the pencil to make a square outline of the cake onto the wax paper. Remove the cake from the wax paper and place the tier onto the cardboard cake plate.

   • 2

     Use the scissors to cut the square from the wax paper.

   • 3

     Place the wax paper onto the top of the base cake. Use the plastic knife to mark the four corners. Remove the wax paper from the tier.

   • 4

     Insert four of the dowels into the base cake at the marked corners. Use the pencil to mark the dowels slightly above the level of the cake's surface. Remove each of the dowels, and cut at the marks with the scissors.

   • 5

     Insert the four dowels into the marks on the top of the base cake to form the four corners of a square.

   • 6

     Place the first-tier cake on top of the wax paper. Use the pencil to make a triangle outline of the cake onto the wax paper. Remove the cake from the wax paper and place the tier onto the cardboard cake plate.

   • 7

     Use the scissors to cut the triangle out of the wax paper.

   • 8

     Place the wax paper onto the top of the second-tier cake. Use the plastic knife to mark the three corners. Remove the wax paper from the tier.

   • 9

     Insert three dowels into the second-tier cake at the marked corners. Use the pencil to mark the dowels slightly above the level of the cake's surface. Remove each of the dowels, and cut at the marks with the scissors.

   • 10

     Insert the three dowels into the marks on the top of the second-tier cake to form the triangle corners of a square.

   • 11

     Insert a dowel into the middle of the top layer of the wedding cake. Push the dowel all the way through to the base of the three cake tiers. Use the pencil to make a mark on the dowel. Make sure the mark is slightly above the level of the cake's surface. Remove the dowel, and use the scissors to cut at the pencil mark.

   • 12

     Insert the dowel into the middle of the top layer of the wedding cake for stability. Push the dowel through until it touches the bottom cake base. Cover the end of the dowel with the frosting.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding cake, tiered wedding, dowels into, second-tier cake, tiered wedding cake, above level, above level cake

How to remove the garter at a wedding

remove the garter at a wedding

It's interesting:
"At the wedding rehearsal yesterday evening, I had the pleasure of talking with Linda’s close friends. They talked about how she’s the friend they turn to when they need to vent over a foolish boyfriend or for advice on land the job of their dreams. They also said she has some pretty sweet moves on the dance floor. So let’s see them!"

The removal of the garter is one of the oldest standing wedding traditions. Modern brides can be thankful that the garter is now just fabric and elastic to make removal easier. They can be even more grateful that the tradition no longer mandates that the male wedding guests rush the bride to remove the garter forcefully, hence resulting in many a ruined dress and, one would garner, a ruined wedding. Today, removing the garter has evolved into a much more couth practice that brings little more than a blush and good-natured ribbing.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Couples should discuss the removal of the wedding garter several weeks before the wedding. If you are exchanging vows in a religious ceremony and celebrating the reception in a house of worship, this custom may be frowned upon. Check with the clergy to make sure it is permissible.

   • 2

     If the removal of the wedding garter will take place, decide at what point during the reception it will occur and, more specifically, where. It is customary for a special seat of honor to be given to the bride in the center of the room for this occasion. It normally takes place after the meal, cutting of the cake and most of the evening's festivities have passed.

   • 3

     The garter is usually placed on the left thigh. If the bride isn't comfortable with exposing this much flesh during the reception, or if there are elderly guests who may find this offensive, she can lower the garter to just above her knee.

   • 4

     The groom should kneel on one knee at the feet of the bride, gently taking her calf in his hand while she raises her dress, ever so slightly, to tease him. This will generally draw some cat calls from the men in the audience. The groom then slips his hand up the bride's dress until he locates the garter, which he then slowly removes, making sure not to raise her leg too high or to show undo impropriety.

   • 5

     Once the groom has removed the garter, the bride is to remain seated. The groom may tease the guys with the garter by twirling it in his hand for all to see his trophy. He then slings the garter toward all of bachelors who hope to catch the garter, a symbol of good luck and fertility.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: remove garter, during reception, garter just, garter wedding, removal wedding, removal wedding garter, remove garter wedding

Where can i find plus-size wedding dresses?

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

Shopping for a plus-size wedding gown is not easy, especially when bridal shops tend to stock wedding dresses that fit women in the size 8 range. This does not mean that plus-size women are left out. There are places where a plus-size woman can find that perfect plus-size wedding dress. Remember that many wedding dresses run small, and you may need to go up a size or two when trying on and ordering your wedding gown.

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1. The Bridal Shop

   • Bridal shops do carry plus-size wedding dresses, but they may not be the dress of your dreams. Remember, bridal shops have to carry dresses that will fit the majority of women. This does not mean you cannot order a dress in a larger size. It may be difficult to get an idea of what the dress would look like on a plus-size woman, but it might just be worth it to get that perfect dress. Call the bridal shop before you go and make sure they carry sample dresses that are in your size.

   eBay

   • eBay is one of the best places to look for plus-size wedding dresses. New items are added every single day, so you have the ability to look for a dress every day. Make sure that you check the seller's return policy in case the dress is not what it seems when you get it home and try it on. eBay is hit or miss, but you can bet that there will be plus-size wedding dresses there to bid on.

   Designer Websites

   • There are specific designers who cater to plus-size women and who create plus-size wedding gowns, among them Alfred Angelo (see Resources). Visit these websites, look for the perfect gown, and you may be able to order directly from their website. If they do not do direct ordering, then they will likely have a section of the website that lists locations where their dresses may be found.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: plus-size wedding, wedding dresses, plus-size wedding dresses, dresses that, bridal shops, does mean, plus-size woman

How to plan a winter wonderland theme wedding

plan a winter wonderland theme wedding

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 ..."

It is true that not all women want to be the traditional June bride. Deciding plan a winter wonderland themed wedding just means you have chosen a non-traditional day to exchange your vows. Some choose to celebrate their lifelong love in the steamy months of summer. Others, like you, want to start their married life in the glistening snow-covered part of the year. Here are a few simple steps to help make your ice princess fantasies come true.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Pick a date. You probably already have a significant day in mind. It could be the same day that you first met your fiance or the first day had your first kiss. The first step in planning any marriage ceremony is to pick the day on which you wish to be married.

   • 2

     Choose your location. Though the cold months are not exactly traditional for weddings, venues may still be booked by other seasonal festivities, such as holiday parties. If you have a specific place in mind, in may be best to call many months in advance to ensure the date that you want.

   • 3

     Choose your colors. The obvious colors when thinking about plan a Christmas wedding, for example, would be the seasonal red and/or green. Beautiful seasonal plants and decorations can be bought at almost any store if you decide to go this route. Almost any hue can be tailored to fit within these themed guidelines.

   • 4

     Find your bridal gown and bridesmaid dresses. After you have decided on a color palette, the next logical step would be to go and find your perfect ice princess dress. Of course, white would have to be the main focus for your dress and for a true contrast, have some colored ribbon or rosettes made in the complimentary color you have chosen. Choose the bridal party's dress in the color(s) choices with some white satin ribbon around the waist or cuffs to keep the look all tied in together.

   • 5

     Find decorations that fit your exact themed day. If you want a more fun marriage ceremony and reception, you can go total holiday season with streamers, Christmas ornaments and yuletide candles. If you are looking for a more elegant fanciful day- think ice sculptures and ivy plants. Your imagination is truly the limit when it comes to plan a winter wonderland-themed wedding.

Tips &- Warnings

• For a true ice princess wedding, think of a covered carriage pulled behind two white horses and plenty of ice sculptures in the shape of swans, doves, hearts or other symbols of love.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: plan winter, plan winter wonderland, winter wonderland, Choose your, first your, have chosen, marriage ceremony

Curled hairstyles for a wedding

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.' ..."

Adding curls to your wedding hairstyle is a great way to change your look from everyday to extra special. Curly formal styles are very versatile and can withstand a full day of movement without becoming limp or lifeless. There is a curly wedding style for every type of hair—-long or short hair, curly or straight. You don’-t have to have naturally curly hair to wear a curly hairstyle. There are ways to achieve no matter what type of hair you have.

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1. Half Updo

   • A half updo is a great style for brides who don’-t like to wear their hair in a full updo, but want to do something different for their wedding day. Curl hair using a curling iron or hot rollers for full, bouncy curls. If you want more natural curls, ask the hairdresser to give you pin curls instead. To do this, separate your hair into small sections while it is wet, and roll it into tiny twisted buns, securing each with bobby pins. Allow the hair to dry completely, and then remove the pins. The hair will come out in curls that look completely natural. Pull just the sides back in twists or braids, and pin the hair at the back of your head. Tease the crown of your hair to give it a little body, or skip the teasing for a more natural look.

   Down

   • Just because it’-s your wedding day doesn’-t mean you have to have to wear your hair in a formal updo. If you tend to wear your hair down more often in your everyday life, your husband will like to see your hair down and looking natural on your wedding day as well. Like the half-updo style, you can curl your hair with a curling iron or hot rollers or use the pin curling method. Allow your hair to hang loose around your shoulders. You can add a decorative pin, comb or headband, or just leave you hair as it is. Be sure to use a lot of hairspray, as your hair will most likely get touched a lot during the day as people hug you.

   Rolled Curl Updo

   • This updo style is ideal for brides with straight hair that doesn’-t hold curl well. For this style, pull all of the hair into a French twist or some other formal updo style. Roll each piece of hair, and pin it into a large rolled pin curl. Sweep the front of the hair to the side, and pin it behind your ear or pull it straight back.

   Messy Updo

   • In a messy updo, curl the hair into tight curls using a curling iron, hot rollers or the pin-curl method. After the curls are set, sweep the hair up on top of your head, and pin it in place so that the curls are loose and slightly messy. Actress Eva Longoria made this look popular on the red carpet in 2010.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your hair, hair into, curling iron, curling iron rollers, iron rollers, your wedding, Curled hairstyles

Garden club program ideas

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

Whether you enjoy digging and planting or just creating arrangements from cut flowers, the delicate petals and fragrant aromas of flowers may bring beauty to your day. When you&rsquo-re brainstorming ideas for your next garden club program or event, consider flower power as your inspiration. No matter if your garden club meets once per week or only a few times a year, you can come up with fresh, blooming ideas for members of the club to enjoy.

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1. State Pride

   • Let the focus of your next event be on your state&rsquo-s officially designated flower. Many options are available when you make your state&rsquo-s flower the centerpiece. Residents of an Ohio garden club, for example, have the scarlet carnation as their state flower. If scarlet carnations aren&rsquo-t available, a few drops of red food coloring may be mixed with water and sprayed onto the flowers with a mister. After they dry, the garden club can offer these state-specific flowers at its next sale. Another idea is to feature the flower in other ways. Vermont, for example, lists the red clover as its state flower. Crafty and creative members of your club can produce handmade items for your next sale, such as hand-knit clovers, watercolor red clovers and even stationery and hand-lettered envelopes with red clovers.

   Eco Conscious

   • The next time your garden club is called upon to make a presentation or conduct a program, consider providing information on how residents can not only keep their gardens green with plants, but environmentally-friendly green as well. Offer information about composting (suggest that members of the club who live close to each other go in on a composter together), stress the importance of not plucking wild flowers or plants, and demonstrate and discuss the different &ldquo-green&rdquo- chemicals available. Members of the club can weigh in on the different products they use in their gardens, such as bug sprays, sod, plant food and peat moss, explaining how each affects the environment.

   Road Trip

   • Gardens around the country may serve as inspiration for your members&rsquo- own gardens when you take a road trip to visit other flowering areas. Whether you drive just a couple of minutes to a garden in your town or offer a road trip package to your club to view renowned gardens states away, your next garden club program will have you learning the history and culture of flowers, as well as admiring them. Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, for example, offers 1,500 acres of plants and flowers, with 20 indoor and outdoor gardens each, plus fountains, a conservatory, outdoor concerts and special events such as a touch and taste of lavender celebration.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: club program, garden club, your next, club program ideas, flowers with

What are good fall wedding colors?

It's interesting:
"Learn connect what's happing in the news to the theme of weddings or marriage, the stereotypical characteristics of a groom, the duties of a best man, ..."

There are many beautiful colors and color combinations that are perfect for a fall wedding. Because fall runs from late September to just before Christmas, you can use almost any color for a wedding. The best places to use color are in the flowers, the invitations, the bridesmaids' dresses, the church and reception decorations and cake. Even the men's tuxedoes can be a darker shade of one of your colors.

1. Typical Fall Colors

   • If you want to reflect the colors of nature during early to late fall, you will find that shades of orange, sunflower and gold will be perfect. Combine the bright orange of a fresh tangerine with the royal blue-purple of just-harvested Concord grapes against a background of warm ivory.

     Use a color like orange or one of its many different shades, such as cool salmon and peach or warm brick or coral. You might try pairing salmon in the dresses with a dark shade of warm olive in the invitations and the tuxes. Try coral roses in the bridal bouquet and cake with a cool Caribbean blue in the dresses and reception decorations.

   Enjoy the Harvest

   • Some of the best color combinations for a fall wedding come straight from the garden, such as demonstrated by the eggplant: a deep purple on the outside and a pale green on the inside. The purple would look beautiful as the accent color in the flowers decorating the tiers of a pale green cake. Those colors could also be echoed in the bridesmaids' dresses, table covers, invitations and flower bouquets.

     The fall garden will also reveal the golden brown of corn silk and the bright yellow of the corn kernels. The men's tuxes would look great in the darker shade of the golden brown. Then the flowers and hair decorations in the bright yellow would pop against the bridesmaids' dresses in a lighter shade of golden brown.

   Fall Salute

   • In the fall, the branches of the military change back to their winter colors: deep navy, royal blue and army green. Try combining navy and burgundy, or red with a shimmering silver, which works well for a Navy or Marine wedding. An Air Force wedding of royal blue and white with accents of pale rose is a creative way to enjoy a more spring-like shade of pink even in the fall. Combine dress-uniform green, chocolate and gold for an Army wedding.

   Holiday Weddings

   • From mid-November through New Year's Day, there are a number of color combinations you can use for a late fall wedding. Cranberry red and snowy white with accents of holly green are perfect for this time of year. You might also like sapphire, platinum and sparkling diamond, or ivory and gold with just a hint of purple.

   Go Monochromatic

   • A wedding in different shades of a single color makes a dramatic statement in the fall. Go sophisticated with shades of charcoal and platinum gray in the tuxes, pale silver in the wedding dress and bright ruby red roses in the bridal bouquet. Another take on the monochromatic theme would be a combination of dark chocolate, mocha, café- au lait and ivory, with a touch of lemon yellow.

   Be Yourself

   • The most important thing to remember when trying to decide on colors for your fall wedding: It's your wedding. You are the one paying for it. You are the one who is going to look at your wedding photos. You need to select colors that will make you happy. If you love spring pastels, have an "April in November" wedding with all the soft pinks, daffodil yellows, lilacs and other spring colors that you love.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: fall wedding, bridesmaids dresses, color combinations, golden brown, bridal bouquet, bright yellow, color flowers

Fun shower games

It's interesting:
"I hope you like these wedding suits. To make sure I would be able to fit into mine I 've been watching my weight. As you can see I've had it right out in front of me ..."

Showers are often a celebration of a joyous event before it occurs. The two common showers are baby showers and wedding showers, which celebrate either the coming of a new baby or the wedding before the event. Both showers are a type of party and require fun party games to get the guests involved.

1. Don't Say Wedding, Bride or Baby

   • Whether the shower is for a baby or a wedding, the "Don't Say" game can bring out laughs. Each person is given an item, such as a safety pin, miniature wedding veil or bracelet, upon entering and are told once that the word is taboo. For example, they are told that they cannot say "bride" or "wedding" at a wedding shower or "baby" at a baby shower. When they hear someone else say the word, they ask for the item given at the beginning. As the game progresses, guests steal the items from each other until a set time, when the game is up. The guest with the most of an item receives a prize.

   Guess the Spice

   • For a bridal shower, prepare around ten different spices labeled with a number or letter, but hiding the spice name. The guests look at the spices and write down the spices by the numbers or letters on the spice on a piece of paper with their name. After all of the guests have guessed, the papers are graded as a group and the guest with the most correct answers wins a prize.

   Baby Bingo

   • The baby shower bingo game is a self-made game that uses baby items instead of the classic bingo numbers. For example, a list of 100 baby items is used and there are cards made with one free space and 24 items in the remaining boxes. There are five rows across and five down for the card. The mother-to-be pulls the listed items out of a hat and calls them out. Players mark any items on their card. The first to get five in a row wins the game.

   Toilet Paper Wedding Dress

   • The toilet paper wedding dress game divides the guests and bride into groups of three. Each group is given four rolls of toilet paper and then told to design a wedding dress. One person is designated as the bride and then the other two on the team wrap her up in a toilet paper dress. The brides show off their toilet paper fashions and the guests vote on the best dress. The team receives a prize.

   Baby Stroller Olympics

   • For an outdoor baby shower, an obstacle course is set up for the game. The guests are given a single baby doll and stroller. Toys and other items are strewn throughout the yard for the course. The guest must take the baby doll, place it into the stroller, run around the obstacle course without hitting any of the obstacles and make it to the finish line. Each obstacle hit is an added second to the time and if the doll falls out, the player is disqualified. The fastest time wins the game.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: toilet paper, baby shower, baby doll, baby items, baby wedding

Pet friendly hotels in mission, bc

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

Mission is a district municipality located in the province of British Columbia, Canada- it lies on the north bank of the Fraser River. Mission's hotels that offer pet-friendly rooms are all located near a variety of recreational activities. Boating, skiing and mountain biking are very popular throughout the area.

1. Best Western Mission City Lodge

   • The Best Western Mission City Lodge is located just minutes from the border of the United States and the city of Sumas, Washington. The hotel offers guests pet-friendly accommodations- however, it requires pet owners to pay a non-refundable deposit per night. The hotel features comfortable amenities that include a fitness center, high-speed wireless Internet access, an indoor swimming pool and a spa. Each of the rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, coffee/tea-making facilities and private bathrooms.

     Best Western Mission City Lodge

     32281 Lougheed Highway

     Mission, British Columbia V2V 1A3

     Canada

     604-820-5500

     bestwesternbc.com

   Mission Travel Inn

   • The Mission Travel Inn offers guests pet-friendly accommodations- however, pet owners must pay a small, nightly fee. Hotel management requests that any guests traveling with pets should contact the inn prior to their arrival to determine room availability. The inn features large guestrooms- each guestroom contains a small kitchenette, a refrigerator, a microwave and high-speed wireless Internet access. The inn also offers complimentary parking facilities, air-conditioning, and reasonable weekly and monthly rates.

     Mission Travel Inn

     34551 Lougheed Highway

     Mission, British Columbia V2V 6N7

     Canada

     604-826-2023

     missiontraveliin.ca

   Above and Beyond - Swan Lake Retreat

   • Swan Lake Retreat is located on the premises of Above and Beyond Vacation Rentals. Swan Lake Retreat is a luxurious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located right on the shoreline of Mission's Haztic Lake. The home offers pet-friendly accommodations for mature dogs only- it asks pet-owners to call ahead to determine if their pet will be appropriate. Swan Lake Retreat has both upper and lower floor bedrooms, with a balcony located in the upstairs master bedroom. The house is decorated in an eclectic lodge style- it features slate fireplaces, leather couches and breathtaking views of the mountains. The kitchen is fully-equipped with a double oven, microwave, refrigerator and large freezers.

     Above and Beyond --Swan Lake Retreat

     10675 Stave Lake Street

     Mission, British Columbia V2V 4J1

     Canada

     604-552-5760

     missionvacationrentals.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Lake Retreat, British Columbia, Swan Lake, Swan Lake Retreat, Above Beyond, Best Western

Hosting a baby shower at home

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 ..."

Hosting a baby shower at home can save money on rental space and create a more intimate atmosphere. You might choose to have a baby shower at home because your group is small or there isn't rental space available in your area. With a few tips and tricks, you can transform your home into a baby shower wonderland that will impress family, friends and the mother-to-be. A shower at home can be just as much fun as one held anywhere else.

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Things You'll Need

• Invitations
• Cake
• Streamers
• Rubber ducks
• Cotton balls
• Toilet paper
• Disposable cameras
• Door prize gifts
• Finger foods of choice

Instructions

1. Before the Shower

   • 1

     Send invitations at least two weeks in advance of the baby shower. The invitations should list a telephone number that guests can call to R.S.V.P. and clear directions to the home where the shower is being held.

   • 2

     Order the cake two to four weeks before the shower. If you plan to make the cake yourself, you'll need to complete it the day before as you'll be very busy the day of the shower. Unless the mom-to-be already knows the sex of the baby because of an ultrasound, it is best to stick with neutral colors like yellow and green for the icing or to use both blue and pink.

   • 3

     Decorate your home with pink and blue or green and yellow streamers. Place rubber ducks around the buffet table and use different sized ducks as a centerpiece.

   • 4

     Prepare snacks. Finger foods are popular, but it is also okay to think outside the box. Start by deciding if the pregnant woman you are holding the show for would like a casual or elegant baby shower. That will help you determine the menu.

     Do you make the best beef barbecue in three counties? Go ahead and fill up a crock pot full of it for the party accompanied by chips and other sides. If you are not good at cooking, you can also pick up prepared trays from places like Subway, Chik-fil-A or order pizza from your local pizza parlor.

   • 5

     Tie balloons on your mailbox or front porch so that guests who have never been to your home can easily find it. If you live in an area that is hard to locate, you may want to create additional signs out of poster board, stakes and balloons and stake them out on the various street corners leading to your home. Draw a big arrow pointing the way and put the words "Melissa's Baby Shower," substituting the name "Melissa" with the name of the mother-to-be.

   During the Shower

   • 6

     Give the guest of honor a comfortable seat in the center of the action. If Mom is more than eight months pregnant, she'll likely need to remain seated and resting at least some of the time.

   • 7

     Play games like the Cotton Ball Game and use toilet paper to measure Mom's belly.

     For the Cotton Ball Game, blindfold the player. Place an empty bowl on top of the person's head (you may need to help them hold it in place.) Place a bowl filled with cotton balls on their lap. The blindfolded person then takes a spoon and tries to get as many cotton balls as possible from the bottom bowl to the top bowl in one minute. The player cannot touch the cotton balls with her fingers. To play the toilet paper game, allow each guest to tear off the number of squares of toilet paper she thinks it will take to go around the expectant mother's tummy. Once everyone has ripped off their squares, measure the mother's stomach using the lengths of toilet paper and see who guessed closest. You can also download trivia games for baby showers at sites like Plan the Perfect Baby Shower and Party Game Ideas (links to these sites are provided in the Resources section of this article.) Award prizes to the winners.

   • 8

     Bring the presents to the mother-to-be and have her open each one and show it to the guests. A friend or family member should take notes on who gave which gifts to the expectant mom, so that she will have a list to send thank you letters later.

   • 9

     Make sure the expectant woman has food to eat and plenty of water to drink. You should also check back with her a few times throughout the party to see if she needs anything. She may need a stool to prop her feet up, for example.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: baby shower, shower home, baby shower home, your home, Hosting baby

Headboard photo ideas

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

A creative twist on displaying photos is to attach them to your bed's headboard. Attaching favorite photos to your headboard is a way for you to enjoy them in an intimate, original way and saves you from investing a lot of money on frames. There are a variety of themes and colors that can create a cohesive, appealing headboard display.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Family Fun Headboard

   • A nostalgic idea is to cover your headboard in family photos. In order for the look to be cohesive instead of overwhelming, print your selected photos in black and white. Enlarge some photos and shrink others to create areas of interest on the headboard and give it a unique look. For a calmer look, paint the headboard white. If you prefer something bolder, choose a soft green or even a bright red as the background. Placing black and white photos over the colorful background will temper the brightness.

   Favorite Things Headboard

   • If you like the idea of photos on your headboard but would rather not use pictures of people, use photos of your favorite things. If you love flowers, for example, spend a week snapping shots of flowers and print them out to create a warm headboard background. For a child's headboard, take pictures of his favorites sports, activities, and things. Instead of using magazine photos of athletes, you can go to the baseball field and take pictures of uniforms, balls, mitts, caps and bats. A seasoned traveler can use pictures of favorite travel spots. For instance, place pictures of the Eiffel Tower next to the Grand Canyon or the pyramids of Egypt.

   Young Couple Headboard

   • If you're a newlywed, try adding wedding photos to your headboard. Choose your favorite wedding pictures or other pictures of your romance. Intersperse photos of the two of you with artsy pictures of your wedding rings or your feet overlapping, for instance, or place pictures of your invitation next to close-ups of your eyes or your fingers interlocking. This idea provides a creative outlet for newlyweds who have hundreds of pictures from their wedding and not enough places to show them off.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your headboard, photos your, photos your headboard, pictures your, black white, Headboard photo, Headboard photo ideas

Wedding reception places in minnesota

It's interesting:
"I know they have both put a tremendous amount of effort in to the planning of this wedding, and can only hope that, apart from this speech, everything has ..."

The name Minnesota means "water that reflects the sky" and is fitting as the state is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." This scenic state is comprised of grasslands and prairies, coniferous and hardwood forests, lakes and rivers. There are many wedding reception places in Minnesota to host the party of a lifetime to celebrate your wedding.

1. Hotel or Bed and Breakfast

   • Water Street Inn located in Stillwater is a quaint place to hold your wedding reception. You can choose from five areas, which can accommodate up to 300 guests under their 12-foot-high ceilings. This venue employs event coordinators to help you design your reception. Water Street Inn also has a list of recommended vendors for you to book for the reception including DJs and provides complete catering including beverages for your event.

     The Inn on Lake Superior, located in Duluth, is equipped to accommodate up to 200 guests for your wedding reception. The Inn is adjacent to Lake Superior and Duluth's Canal Park lakefront area of shops and restaurants. A chic hors d'oeuvres reception, formal dinner reception or buffet reception with diverse menus are among your choices for your reception. Cocktail service and wine selection are included with the full-service catering provided by the Inn's preferred caterer. The hotel is equipped with audio and visual equipment you can use for your celebration.

   Museum

   • You can include your passion for art by hosting your wedding reception at the Walker Art Center located in Minneapolis. Indoor spaces available for your event include rooms filled with contemporary art and massive windows that offer impressive views of the city's skyline. Three terraces are available for outdoor receptions. This venue can accommodate up to 450 guests for your wedding reception. Renowned chef Wolfgang Puck exclusively caters receptions at this venue. A professional event coordinator is on staff to assist you with all of your wedding reception plans.

     South St. Paul is home to the Minnesota Wing Commemorative Air Force museum. This space is just the place for an aviation buff's wedding reception. It's located inside an actual airport hangar. Guests can view vintage planes and browse through the large compilation of World War II images and artifacts during your reception. The high, arched ceiling provides fantastic acoustics for your live or DJ entertainment. The venue has a list of recommended caterers and vendors with experience hosting events at this location.

   Historical Place

   • Originally constructed in 1905, the Como Lakeside Pavilion is located in the city of St. Paul and is currently owned and operated by Black Bear Crossings on the Lake. The Black Bear Banquet Room is located on the third floor of the pavilion, with large windows that offer a view of Como Lake, and can accommodate up to 200 guests. The Outdoor Promenade is available for outdoor receptions and can seat up to 400 people comfortably. The intimate mezzanine located on the second floor of the pavilion accommodates up to 75 of your guests. The chef on staff provides all the catering for your casual or formal style of wedding reception.

     The Landing, part of Three Rivers Park District in Shakopee, sits on 88 acres consisting of scenic trails and 19th century historic buildings overlooking the Minnesota River. The Pavilion is equipped for 200 guests and the Minnesota River Overlook can accommodate up to 250 guests. The Town Hall has the capacity for small receptions for up to 60 people. The park has a recommended and approved list of caterers for you to use for your wedding reception.

   Restaurant

   • Pracna on Main is located in Minneapolis and overlooks the Mississippi River. The old-world charm of the architecture and cobblestone sidewalks provides an interesting site for your wedding reception. This restaurant is able to accommodate 150 guests for a buffet dinner and 250 guests for a sit-down meal. There is room for you to dance the night away as a live band performs. The restaurant offers special appetizer and dinner menus for you to choose from- the group event planner will work with you to plan your wedding reception.

     A reception with a golf course view is what you will have at The Grands at Mulligans, located in St. Cloud. Choices of wedding receptions include hors d'oeuvres gathering, formal sit-down dinner and buffet. The restaurant's executive chef is able to provide the catering for up to 350 of your wedding guests and will work with you to design a special menu for your event.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, your wedding reception, accommodate guests, wedding reception, wedding reception

Diy expense keeping spreadsheets

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

Building an expense keeping spreadsheet is a skill many adults do not understand. There are no high school classes to provide students with the everyday budgeting skills they need to keep their finances on track as they grow into adulthood. Create an expense keeping spreadsheet by choosing your spreadsheet software, adding your dynamic and static expenses, adding in your monthly income and figuring your total disposable income.

1. Choose Your Spreadsheet Software

   • A majority of spreadsheets are created in Microsoft Office Excel, although Microsoft Office Excel can be expensive. Download free spreadsheet software from OpenOffice.Com, or download any number of free spreadsheet programs found on the Web.

   Create Monthly Dynamic and Static Expenses

   • Dynamic expenses are expenses that vary from month to month such as dining out, movies, books or computer games. Dynamic expenses are expenses you can quickly eliminate or reduce. For instance, to reduce your dining-out expense, simply eat grocery-purchased whole foods. Static expenses are expenses that remain roughly the same from month to month such as your mortgage, car payment and car insurance.

     Open your spreadsheet software and list all of your dynamic and static expenses down the left-most column of cells (leaving the first row of the spreadsheet empty). In the first row--across the top of the spreadsheet--add in the next few months of the year. Fill in all of your expenses for this month based on bank records, credit card records or receipts you have saved. Using a spreadsheet sum formula "=sum(b2:b8)" or manual calculation, total all of your monthly expenses.

   Add in Monthly Income

   • At the bottom of your spreadsheet (under your total monthly expenses), type in your regular monthly income and fill in that number to the right until every month has a regular monthly income entry. If you have extra monthly income such as a hobby that generates income, fill that in just below the regular monthly income entries and then--below extra monthy income--use a formula "=SUM(B11:B12)" or manual calculation to get a total monthly income.

   Total Your Monthly Disposable Income

   • Your monthly disposable income is the amount of money you have left over after all of your bills are paid. Type "Monthly Disposable Income" beneath your total monthly income entry. Use a formula "=B13-B9" or manually subtract your total monthly expenses from your total monthly income to ring up your monthly disposable income.

     You want your monthly disposable income to be a positive number. If your monthly disposable income is a negative number, make reductions on your dynamic expenses for the next month by not dining out as much or skipping movies, for example.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: monthly income, total monthly, your total, your total monthly, expense keeping, monthly disposable

Do-it-yourself save the date items

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

You can make simple Save the Date cards or postcards, which are a good option if most of your guests will be receiving your announcement by mail. If you can hand-deliver your items, make some sweet treats to pass around, or craft reminders that resemble scrapbook or calendar pages. If you're having an outdoor summer wedding, stamp your announcement on small, inexpensive folding paper fans.

1. Printed Items

   • Using a software program such as Microsoft Publisher, create sheets of business cards printed with a picture or clip art, your names and wedding date and your "Save the Date" message. You'll be able to choose the layout, font, borders, colors and, of course, the picture or clip art. You can buy packages of blank business-card sheets at office-supply stores. If you mail your cards, be sure to use envelopes that are at least 3 1/4 inches high by 5 inches long to avoid a postage surcharge for non-standard size envelopes.

     Print postcards using Publisher. You'll be able to print four postcards per page. You can use glossy photo paper or card stock in your choice of color. Or design your postcards at the Postal Service website and have them mailed for you. This service allows you to upload addresses from your email address book or from an Excel file.

     Make your own Save the Date magnets. Buy sheets or rolls of magnet stock and print them as you would postcards or business cards. Die-cut the magnets into wedding-cake or other shapes appropriate for a wedding.

   Edible Items

   • Make heart-shaped sugar cookies and write your message on them with a decorator tube fitted with a writing tip. Make simple flowers by using a star tip, or add thinned icing around the border and sprinkle it with tiny cookie decorations.

     If you enjoy a little whimsy, package dates in plastic treat bags and add a label with your names, wedding date and Save the Date message. Use stuffed dates to make them more visually appealing.

     Make homemade fudge and package each piece in a little box. Write a "sweet" message on the top of the box.

   Crafted Items

   • Use cookie cutters to mark shapes such as wedding bells, wedding cakes or hearts on sheets of self-adhesive foam and finish cutting them out with scissors. You can also use wedding-themed scrapbook items. Make mini-scrapbook pages by cutting sheets of card stock into quarters. Glue the foam shapes or scrapbook decorations around the borders of the card stock. Write your Save the Date information by hand, or use software to create a page that you can cut and glue to the card stock. Add a small picture of the couple (a picture taken on the day they became engaged would be ideal). Make or buy tiny bows and glue one to the top of each page.

     On a calendar page, circle your wedding date, add a wedding sticker and write your names. Reduce the page to allow you to make two or three smaller copies per sheet, and copy your calendar page. Punch two holes on one side of each page using a paper punch, run a ribbon through the holes and tie a bow.

     Buy undecorated white wedding-favor boxes or take-home wedding cake boxes from a bakery box supplier. Add a wedding sticker to each box, tie a narrow ribbon around it and attach a tag to the ribbon reading, "If you don't save the date, you won't get any cake to put in this box." Add your names and wedding date to the tag. You can unfold the boxes to slip them into envelopes for mailing.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: card stock, wedding date, your names, names wedding, names wedding date