Friday, July 29, 2011

Waterfront restaurants in pinellas county florida

Waterfront restaurants in pinellas county, florida

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 ..."

Pinellas County, Florida, is home to over 900,000 individuals and includes over 20 cities, the largest of which is St. Petersburg. The county is surrounded on both sides by waterways, including the Gulf of Mexico, and offers many waterfront restaurants for tourists and locals to enjoy. These restaurants offer a variety of selections and cuisines.

Dave's Dockside Grill
- Dave's Dockside Grill offers locally caught seafood in many of its menu items. The restaurant serves breakfast, and its grouper entree was voted the best in the south by "Southern Living Magazine." Menu items include peel-and-eat jumbo shrimp, fresh mushrooms fried or sauteed, seafood-filled omelets, eggs Benedict with crab meat, fried calamari and smoked amberjack fish spread. The restaurant has two locations: on Madeira Beach and on St. Pete Beach. The schedule for the St. Pete Beach location is Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 12 noon to 10 p.m. The Madeira Beach location is open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover as well as cash.
  Dave's Dockside Grill
  1470 Gulf Boulevard
  Madeira Beach, FL 33708
  727-392-9399
  7141 Gulf Boulevard
  St. Pete, FL 33706
  727-360-4200
  davesdocksidegrill.com
Caddy's on the Beach
- Caddy's on the Beach offers live bands, breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as cocktails. The restaurant is located directly on Sunset Beach and it's open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Breakfast menu items include morning drinks such as bloody marys, corned beef omelets, huevos benito Benedict, and son of a beach burrito, which features scrambled eggs, sausage, ham, bacon, cheddar cheese, salsa and home fries wrapped in a flour tortilla and drenched with a roasted poblano pepper hollandaise. Lunch and dinner menu include smoked fish spread, grilled and blackened shrimp and pink cadillac seafood chowder.
  Caddy's on the Beach
  9000 West Gulf Boulevard
  Sunset Beach, FL 33706
  727-360-4493
  caddysotb.com
Woody's Waterfront Cafe and Beach Bar
- Woody's Waterfront Cafe and Beach Bar offers freshly caught seafood and live entertainment nightly from Wednesday through Sunday, as of 2010. The restaurant offers views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Blind Pass. The restaurant has a waterfront deck from which patrons watch the bay and Gulf creatures at play. Menu items include hellfire hot crawfish spread, stuffed mahi, blackened mahi-mahi steak and clam confusion. Woody's also offers party trays of buffalo wings, fish spread, clam strips, peel-and-eat shrimp, fried shrimp and seafood nuggets.
  Woody's Waterfront
  7308 Sunset Way
  St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
  727-360-9165
  woodyswaterfront.com

Tags: Caddy Beach, Dave Dockside, Dave Dockside Grill, Dockside Grill, fish spread, Gulf Boulevard

Western style wedding dresses on a budget

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."

Planning a wedding is a big expense, and one of the biggest expenses is the dress. But it doesn't have to be. With a little planning and some research, a wedding dress can be found for a lot less than you think. Here are strategies for finding a perfect wedding dress on a budget.

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Sales
- Most bridal stores have clearance sales once yearly to make room for newer fashions. Although the atmosphere can almost resemble a feeding frenzy from "Jaws" when brides-on-a-budget descend on these stores, it can also be a good place to find the wedding dress of your dreams. Typically stores list sales in newspaper circulars, fliers, store banners or classified ads in advance. Some brides-to-be line up outside the shop early to be first through the door. Some stores allow only a few shoppers at a time. Brides have been known to bring friends to hold potential dresses and wear bathing suits so they can try on a gown right there on the showroom floor. A designer dress at one of these sales may be had for as little as $100.
Online Auctions
- Wedding dresses at online auction houses range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. These dresses may be vintage, used or never worn. A few dresses may have damage, from dirt to tears. It's considered good etiquette for the seller to list any damage to the dress and provide photos so that the bidder can judge for themselves. However, many auction houses such as eBay rely on the honor system. Should your dress not arrive as described, you can attempt to return the dress. Your other courses of action may include leaving negative feedback with the seller and requesting that the auction house mediate a dispute. However, most online auction houses are limited to banning the seller from their website. The bottom line on buying a dress at an auction house: Let the buyer beware.
Something Borrowed
- Another alternative for your wedding day is to borrow a dress from a friend or family member. Often, wearing your grandmother's or mother's (or your groom's mother's) dress can add feelings of nostalgia that make the dress even more special. If you have a friend who is willing to loan you a wedding dress, this may also be an option. Finally, you may consider renting a dress or purchasing one from a consignment shop. Consignment shops have a high standard for the quality of clothing that they will accept. Often a consignment shop in an upscale neighborhood will carry clothing with designer labels.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding dress, auction houses, auction house, consignment shop, dresses budget, online auction

Pinatas mexican traditions

Pinatas & mexican traditions

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 ..."

Pinatas are often seen as a symbol of Mexican celebrations and fiestas. They are brightly decorated shapes and figures, filled with candy. The pinata provides a fun game for children of all ages. They are a staple at multiple Mexican holidays, and they have a long history both in Mexico and worldwide.

History of Pinatas
- According to Mexconnect, the history of pinatas actually starts in China. The Chinese used a primitive version of the current pinata to welcome in the New Year. They would fill it with seed for the new year's harvest instead of treats. This Chinese tradition spread into Europe where many countries started using pinatas to welcome in the start of Lent. The first Sunday of Lent became known as "Pinata Sunday."
  When the tradition of "Pinata Sunday" came to Spain, they made it into a celebration, which they called the the "Dance of the Pinata." When Spanish Missionaries settled in current day Mexico, they saw that the native people had a similar tradition of breaking a decorated clay pot to offer gifts to the god of war. So the missionaries used pinatas to try to attract the natives to religious ceremonies.
  The missionaries created a pinata they called a "cantero." It was beautifully decorated and said to represent Satan who would disguise himself to attract humans. The "cantero" had seven decorated points with streamers attached to each point to represent the seven deadly sins.
  As time went on, the pinatas were no longer used during religious ceremonies and lost their religious meaning. Now they are a game used primarily to celebrate birthdays and festivals and Las Posadas, which are processions to bring in the Christmas season.
Las Posadas
- Las Posadas are nightly celebrations to bring in the Christmas season. They start on December 16th and run through December 24th. Each night the celebration is at a different person's house. All the guests line up outside the house holding candles and sing traditional songs while a young girl and boy dressed as Mary and Joseph process into the home. The rest of the night, the guests celebrate by breaking pinatas, singing Christmas carols and eating.
  Las Posadas was created by Catholic missionaries who tried to combine Catholic celebrations with celebrations of the native people living in the region to attract them to Catholicism. The end result were these new ways to celebrate religious holidays, which are now considered traditional Mexican celebrations.
Birthday Parties
- A typical child's birthday party in Mexico isn't just a child-themed party. It involves friends and family. There is always plenty of food, drink and music. The pinata is an important part of the activities. The birthday child gets to go first and try to break the pinata while an adult will pull the rope the pinata hangs from to raise and lower the pinata while the child is swinging. This way all the kids get a chance to try to break the pinata before it is actually broken open.
  The pinata is a mainstay at birthday parties until the child reaches the age of maturity, which is typically the child's fifteenth birthday according to Mexconnect.
Pinatas
- Traditionally, pinatas were made by decorating clay pots. However, according to Rivergirl, most of the pinatas she saw while living in Mexico were made out of paper mache or layers of cardboard. Pinatas are also now made using paper mache over inflated balloons.
  Although the traditional pinata with seven points, which started out to represent the seven deadly sins, is still commonly found at Mexican fiestas, pinatas can now be found in all shapes and sizes. They are often very elaborate and colorful.
Breaking the pinata
- During celebrations, pinatas are hung from a tree branch. The participants take turns being blindfolded. They are then spun around and have to try to hit the pinata by swinging a stick. When the pinata is hit hard enough, it will break open and the candy inside will spill to the ground.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: break pinata, bring Christmas, bring Christmas season, Christmas season, deadly sins

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Tropical flowers to go on wedding cakes

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 ..."

Planning a wedding is no small task and, just as the dress is the eye-catcher of the wedding, the cake is the focus of the reception. Tropical flowers can make your cake stand out in a decorative and colorful way. There are many options on style and a color palette that will make your cake pop.

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Choosing the Cake Style
- The more area to cover with flowers, the more expensive it will be
  Wedding cake styles can vary widely. Anything from a large, flat sheet cake to towering tiered cakes are available. Choosing which one works for you depends on your vision and how your want to use your tropical flowers. Another thing to think about when choosing a cake style is to consider your budget. The tropical flowers you choose to decorate your cake with will increase the cost. The larger and more intricately the cake is decorated, the higher the cost.
Tropical Flower Choices
- Flowers come in many varieties and colors
  Tropical flowers come in a variety of colors and shapes. Your biggest challenge may be deciding which to use. Consider if your wedding colors are part of that selection and choose from that color scheme. Plumeria blossoms are popular as are anthuriums, orchids, and Blue Dawn flowers. Ask your florist what is available in your area, and look at photos of the various flowers. Consider the hardiness of the flower you choose. Flowers that are known to easily wilt may not be an attractive choice for a cake that must sit out for any length of time.
Tropical Flowers for a Sheet Cake
- Use colorful tropical flowers on a sheet cake
  Focus your visual wow factor on the outer portion of the cake. Using tropical flowers to decorate the cake will give you options both in color and design. For a large sheet cake, consider either a flower arrangement or one large bloom. Tropical roses or plumeria blossoms would work, or consider a lava plant, which could stand upright either in a corner or the middle of the cake.
Tropical Flowers on a Tiered Cake
- Tiered cakes offer a variety of options for tropical flower use.
  Tiered wedding cakes offer the designer a plethora of options. Flowers can be strung and draped down the cake, or individual flowers can be used on each tier in single or varying colors. If you choose, tropical flowers can also be draped along the trays instead of on the cake itself. Consider using large single blossoms between the tiers. You can also mix green leaves on the top of each tier or the sides of the cake to add interest.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: tropical flowers, wedding cakes, your cake, cakes offer, each tier, flowers wedding, flowers wedding cakes

How to tour coronado island

tour coronado island

Touring Coronado Island, actually a peninsula in the Pacific Ocean off San Diego, is possible by car, but also by bicycle or on foot, since the town of Coronado isn't large, and the southern California climate is usually favorable for outdoor excursions. The main areas of interest to visitors are concentrated in certain parts of town, such as the Orange Avenue shopping district, the magnificent Hotel del Coronado or the town's beaches.

Things You'll Need

Automobile or bicycle

Walking shoes

Instructions

- 1
  For drivers, two roads connect San Diego with Coronado: the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge, which is a straight shot from downtown to 4th Street in Coronado, or the long way around via California Route 75, also known as Silver Strand Blvd.
- 2
  Metered parking is available on the main shopping street of Coronado Island, Orange Avenue, and along some side streets. There's no fee for parking at the Coronado Ferry Landing, provided visitors patronize nearby shops. Parking is also free (with no strings attached) along Ocean Blvd. near the beach, but spaces aren't always available.
- 3
  Hourly ferry service runs between the Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego and the Coronado Ferry Landing, a mode of travel suitable for both walkers and bicyclists, since bicycles can be taken aboard the ferry. Separately, the San Diego Water Taxi also offers service between the city and Coronado.
- 4
  There are a number of establishments that will rent bicycles to visitors, at strategically located spots on the island: Bikes and Beyond (at the ferry landing)- Holland's Bicycles on Orange Ave.- and Wheel Fun Rentals at the Coronado Island Marriott. The island is flat and easy to navigate by bike, and is only about a mile across from the ferry landing to the Hotel del Coronado.
- 5
  For a nominal fee, the MTS Route 904 Coronado Shuttle will take visitors across the island along Orange Ave. Running every hour, the shuttle connects the ferry landing and Marriott on one side of the island with the Hotel del Coronado on the other.

Tips &- Warnings

The town's streets are on a grid, with letter streets (A,B,C) running in one direction and numbered streets (1st, 2nd, 3rd) in the other direction.
Even if you aren't staying there, spend time at the Hotel del Coronado, a national treasure.
The town has two golf courses, the Coronado on the ocean and Sea N Air near the North Island Naval Air Station.

As in any American city, lock your car and do not flash large amounts of cash.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Hotel Coronado, Coronado Island, ferry landing, Coronado Ferry, Coronado Ferry Landing

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Riverboat cruises

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 history of riverboats in the United States dates back to the 19th century, when cruising down a river was one of the most expedient methods of transportation and trade. Although highway transportation has replaced riverboats in that sense, tourists flock to riverfront cities, such as New Orleans or Chattanooga, Tennessee, to take a leisurely ride on the water. Most riverboat cruises offer on-board dining and the chance to see to historic landmarks.

Southern Belle: Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Chattanooga, Tennessee, provides chances for riverboat cruises on the Tennessee River, via the Southern Belle. The Southern Belle departs from the port in downtown Chattanooga, and provides lunch and dinner cruises. Cruising on the Tennessee River affords opportunities to see the Great Smoky Mountains and the downtown Chattanooga skyline. The riverboat also hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions. The boat hosts parties and cruises from February through December, with January being the only month it does not operate.
New Orleans Mississippi River Cruises
- New Orleans, on the Mississippi River, is a highly sought-after destination for tourists who want a riverboat cruise. New Orleans riverboats include the Creole Queen paddle-wheel boat, which accommodates up to 1,000 people -- and the 600-seat Cajun Queen. The ports-of-call for these boats are the Aquarium of Americas and the Riverwalk entertainment complex. Tourists hop on board these boats for nighttime dinner cruises or to see historic sites, including Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, where the Battle of New Orleans was fought in 1815. Visitors can also ride the Steamboat Natchez, which offers live jazz music and dinner cruises.
Riverboat Discovery: Fairbanks, Alaska
- Riverboat Discovery tours embark from Fairbanks, Alaska, and meander down the Chena River and Tanana River. This authentic steamboat was built in the early 20th century. The tours include a lunchtime meal. Stopping points on the tour include the Chena Indian Village, where tourists can see Native American memorabilia and fur pelts, and the Athabascan Fish Camp, which offers chances to see how the Athabascan Native Americans prepare their fish. The cruises are offered during the warm summer months.
BB Riverboats: Cincinnati, Ohio
- The BB Riverboats company in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers day and dinner cruises on the Ohio River. The cruise company has three vessels: the paddle wheel boats, Belle of Cincinnati and River Queen, and the smaller riverboat, Newport Landing. The two paddle wheel boats are used for dinner cruises and sightseeing tours, while Newport Landing's more intimate setting is for receptions and private parties. The riverboats have regular embarkation times during the summer, but cease operations in the winter.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: dinner cruises, Chattanooga Tennessee, Southern Belle, Cincinnati Ohio, downtown Chattanooga, Fairbanks Alaska

Blacktie wedding reception etiquette

Black-tie wedding reception etiquette

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

If you're not up on your wedding etiquette, you may not know the difference between a formal black-tie event, black-tie optional and casual chic wedding. Whether you're getting ready to host a black-tie wedding reception or have been invited to one, there are some rules of etiquette to know before heading out to the party.

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Significance
- Black tie is a type of evening wear for special events and occasions such as wedding receptions. The significance of black-tie attire originated in Victorian times when the black-tie attire symbolized leaving the dirt and smell acquired by riding to events on horseback behind you. As automobiles came into existence, black-tie attire transitioned into a type of attire reserved for social purposes that represented being clean, neat and attractive.
History
- Before World War II, black-tie wedding reception attire was associated with a dress that symbolized what "polite society" wore to these special occasions. Black-tie attire during this time meant a dinner jacket and tailcoat. During the interwar period, the tuxedo became the black-tie attire reserved for men. After the war, black-tie attire became a bit more relaxed and casual so a black-tie wedding reception would warrant a business suit, known at the time as a sack or lounge suit. During the 1940s and '50s, the tuxedo made a comeback as the preferred black-tie attire. As the '80s began, social standards began setting the standard for what was considered a black-tie wedding reception, so you would see diverse interpretations of black-tie attire depending on whether you were on the East, West or Gulf Coast of the U.S.
Time Frame
- Etiquette rules state that black-tie attire is reserved for wedding ceremonies and receptions that take place after 6 p.m. Britain has continued this tradition, where black-tie formal wear is reserved for evening weddings and adorns what the British term morning dress for weddings that take place before sundown. Americans, however, are more commonly known to wear the tuxedo and tailcoat as black-tie attire no matter what time of the day the wedding reception is held.
Size
- Etiquette also states that black-tie wear is reserved for adults. The Encyclopedia of Etiquette says, "As a general rule, boys do not wear dinner jackets much before they are 15, or tailcoats before they are about 18." Since the book was originally written in 1967, interpretations of this etiquette have waned so you often see young ring bearers or other wedding reception guests wearing black-tie formal wear at a younger age. In some instances, the long pants are substituted for tuxedo shorts, which are more age-appropriate. The general rule of thumb is that if a boy is too young to tie a formal bow tie, he is too young to wear it.
Identification
- When you receive a wedding reception invitation that doesn't indicate what the attire requirements are, even if the event is after 6 p.m., you may be in a quandary as to what you should wear. In modern times, almost all black-tie wedding receptions are explicitly stated as so on the invitation so that there is no misinterpretation or confusion as to what to wear to the wedding. Emily Post's Etiquette says that dress attire should be included on a formal wedding invitation to let the guests know that the attire is "black-tie."

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding reception, black-tie attire, attire reserved, black-tie attire, black-tie wedding

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

How to write a wedding ceremony

write a wedding ceremony

Organizing your own wedding ceremony gives you the ability to incorporate your favorite elements into your special day. Along with creating your wedding vows, designing the entire ceremony ensures a day that all the guests will remember.

Keep in mind that you can plan the wedding in any manner you choose but there are some guidelines to help you formulate a ceremony that flows smoothly from one event into the next.

Instructions

- 1
  Consult the wedding officiator, especially if the ceremony will take place in a church. Some denominations require a set order of events so it's imperative to know how much leeway you have in writing the ceremony.
- 2
  Determine the desired length of your ceremony and arrange the elements to suit that time frame. A 30-minute ceremony is average but you're free to make yours shorter or longer.
  Be aware that ceremonies that last over an hour may result in some guests becoming restless. In addition, small children have a hard time sitting quietly, so plan the length of your ceremony accordingly.
- 3
  Decide where you want the guests to sit, who will usher them in and whether you will seat the parents' of the bride and groom as a part of the ceremony, itself. Traditionally, the bride's family sits on the left and the groom's family and friends on the right but you may change this if you wish. It is important, however, to reserve the best seating for family.
- 4
  Plan the processional to highlight the bride's entrance. While a bride normally enters on the arm of an older male, often her father, who then "gives her away," this traditional rule is regularly broken. A female may accompany the bride or she may enter alone. If you prefer, the bride and groom may even enter together.
- 5
  Hire an accompanist to play soft music during times you feel it will highlight the events. Typical musical interludes occur during the lighting of candles, after the officiator's announcement and during the presentation of the married couple to the audience. If you don't have a specific song you want to share, you can eliminate a musical number from the ceremony.
- 6
  Arrange the elements of the wedding ceremony to culminate with the bride and groom's vows. Although some couples choose to have a final song, candle lighting or prayer after the vows, these events are anti-climatic for the guests who are ready to congratulate the newlyweds.
- 7
  Write the ceremony to center around the vows. While all the additional elements add style and a special touch to your day, the vows are the part of the ceremony that everyone in attendance wants to hear.
  Consider both the bride and the groom's speaking abilities. Complex vows that are hard to remember can make this portion of the ceremony awkward. Give the officiator a copy of your vows so he can prompt you if you forget.
- 8
  Add creative elements when writing the wedding ceremony that you feel will heighten the pleasure of everyone present. Be creative. For instance, in an outdoor wedding, releasing helium balloons or doves adds drama. Indoors, having a couple of family members or friends do readings will lend a personal touch.

Tips &- Warnings

Eliminate elements that take up too much time and don't add substantially to the ceremony. Long musical arrangements that interrupt the ceremony will make the guests fidget as will waiting for young children to light dozens of candles. Keep the ceremony moving to keep everyone's attention.

Avoid writing tedious speeches for others to deliver. This includes the wedding vows. Grooms are notorious for forgetting memorized vows so keep it simple and meaningful.

Tags: wedding ceremony, bride groom, ceremony that, ceremony will, feel will, guests will

How to choose country dance music

choose country dance music

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 ..."

Whether you are hosting a country-dance party or participating in a honky-tonk, you must have the right dance music for the occasion. Take a look at these easy steps for choosing the right country dance music and then strap on your boots for a little fun. Yee haw.

Instructions

- 1
  Know your audience and its taste in dance music. If you have a group of older folks who consider the legendary country stars to be the only tried and true faces in the country music industry, then those folks will not be too impressed with the latest country hits. If you will have a largely uneven gender balance, slow dancing music might not work very well. If you are not sure about the audience's taste, consider including a number of selections to create a dance mix for some variety.
- 2
  Select music that fits with your setting. Whether you are in a club, a barn or enjoying the great outdoors, your music should reflect the surroundings. From line dancing to country pop to slow dancing, there are many choices for each type of music.
- 3
  Consider the amount of dance space you have before choosing your music. If you have a large space such as a dance floor available, you will be able to accommodate more lively music for livelier dancing.
- 4
  Ask around for advice on selecting country music. If you are familiar with a particular sound or a few certain artists, having a second opinion from someone who knows a bit about country music will help you make the right decision.

Tips &- Warnings

Be sure to select enough songs to avoid repetition during your event.

Tags: dance music, country dance, country dance music, country music, audience taste, choose country

Monday, July 25, 2011

Information on pink sapphires

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

The mineral corundum is the hardest mineral other than the diamond. It is mined in many parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Africa and the United States. Corundum comes in many shades, from the blue sapphire to the red ruby to the pink and orange shades of fancy sapphires.

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Rubies
- Three shades of sapphires
  Only one color of sapphire has its own discreet classification: the red sapphire known as the ruby. In general, the closer a pink sapphire approaches tones of red, the more valuable it becomes.
Pink Sapphires
- A favorite among buyers of fancy sapphires, the pink sapphire is second only to the padparadscha (a pink-orange or orange-pink fancy sapphire) in value. The pink sapphire can range in color from pastel pink to hot pink.
Clarity Issues
- Clear pastel stone
  Because flaws known as inclusions are more visible in light pink stones, in order to match the value of deeper colored stones of the same size, light pink sapphires must be both clearer and more perfectly cut.
Uses in Jewelery Design
- Multicolored sapphire butterfly
  Pink sapphires are often used as accent gems in settings that include other colored stones or diamonds.
Famous Pink Sapphires
- During the Nixon administration, First Lady Patricia Nixon, was presented with a yellow gold and pink sapphire necklace from General Sisowath Sirik Matak, Minister of National Defense of the Khmer Republic. The elaborate piece is now on display at the Nixon Library.

Tags: pink sapphire, colored stones, fancy sapphires, Information pink, Information pink sapphires

How to make a free wedding program

make a free wedding program

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

As the costs add up for all of the elements of your wedding celebration, you may be looking for a way to save money. If you have a bit of time and a word processing program, you can create your own wedding program absolutely free. When it is exactly as you like it, you will only need to provide paper and ink for printing the necessary quantity. For the purposes of clarity, these steps reflect the use of Microsoft Word, although most up-to-date word processing programs are capable of creating a wedding program.

Things You'll Need

Computer with word processing program

Printer

High-quality paper

Instructions

- 1
  Gather the information that you would like to see on your program. You will need the names of everyone involved, the order of the ceremony, the names of songs and/or scripture readings and any additional quotes or verses.
- 2
  Open Microsoft Word and begin formatting your page. If you would like a folded style program, go to the "Page Layout" tab and click "Page Setup." Leave the margins alone for now, and progress to the "Orientation" section. Click the image for "Landscape." This will make your page display lengthwise. Beneath the heading "Multiple Pages," select "Book Fold" from the drop-down box. The next box will display "Sheets per Booklet." Here you will select "Auto."
- 3
  Enter your program information, just as you would type in any Word document. The way the document will print is a bit confusing: page one is the outside back cover, page two is the outside front cover, page three is the inside left, and page four is the inside right. To enter information from front to back, you'll start at the front cover (page 2). On the cover, you will enter the bride's and groom's names, the wedding date and the location. Optional additions may be meaningful quotes or verses. You can also add an image from your computer through clip art, an online source or photo source. To do this, you will click on the "Insert" tab and then click on what you'd like to insert (such as a photo or piece of clip art). The program will lead you to possible sources from which you will gather your image, where you can browse to locate the image you will use. To make things simple, you may wish to save the image on your desktop before you begin creating your program so that you can find it quickly and easily.
- 4
  Continue entering program information on the inside left page (page 3). Here you will need the names of all involved in the ceremony, including the bridesmaids and groomsmen, parents of the couple, officiant, performers, candle lighters, ushers and anyone else involved.
- 5
  Enter the order of your ceremony on the inside right page. You should include each section of the ceremony, with the names of songs and references for scripture readings. At the bottom of this page, you may want to give instructions to the reception.
- 6
  Finish creating your program by scrolling back to page 1 and entering information for the back page. Here you may write a thank you or another personal note from the bride and groom as well as any additional information you would like to communicate. A photo or image could be inserted here as well.
- 7
  Edit! In this last step to creating your program, you need to make the program look correct and professional. Review fonts and choose a readable yet elegant font. Center the text and change the margins, if you would like. (Margin settings are found in the "Page Layout" tab.) Once everything is to your liking, print on nice, high-quality paper.

Tips &- Warnings

Double-check everything before print to catch any final mistakes.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your program, wedding program, would like, cover page, creating your, creating your program, word processing

How to be a wedding planner in maryland

be a wedding planner in maryland

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."

A career as a wedding planner can be a rewarding one, as wedding planners help couples create the perfect wedding day. A successful wedding planner needs to establish relationships with brides-to-be, families and vendors to build her business. If you want to become a wedding planner in Maryland, familiarize yourself with the venues and vendors in the area, and network with other wedding professionals to help your business grow.

Instructions

- 1
  Join the Maryland Wedding Professionals Association. This organization includes wedding professionals across the state who meet minimum requirements and adhere to a code of ethics. Membership indicates you follow ethical business practices and demonstrate professionalism, which can impress potential clients. Membership will also allow you to meet other wedding planners in the state.
- 2
  Build relationships with vendors in your area. A well-connected wedding planner can help guide couples to the right vendors and negotiate the best price for them. Before you take on a client, get to know florists, photographers, videographers, DJs and bands in Maryland. You can find a list of vendors in Annapolis/Eastern Shore, Baltimore and Suburban Maryland on The Knot (see Resources).
- 3
  Familiarize yourself with local venues. Check out an array of ceremony and reception sites so that you can suggest the right venue for your client. For example, in the Baltimore area, brides can choose from hotel venues like the Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa to more unique spots like Pintail Yachts.
- 4
  Attend local bridal shows. Bridal shows give you the opportunity to network with local vendors and meet potential clients all at once. Bridal shows generally occur quarterly, so keep an eye out for upcoming shows. For example, the Baltimore Bridal Show occurs in August of each year.
- 5
  Establish an online presence. Many brides conduct wedding planning online, so it's important to build a presence for your business online. You can create a business website and tie it to social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter and Linked In. Network with other Maryland wedding professionals online as well. For example, you can join the Maryland Wedding Planners group on Linked In.

Tips &- Warnings

Consider taking wedding planning courses---you can take many of them online from the comfort of your own home. These classes help build your wedding-planning skills, which will improve your business' success.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding planner, wedding professionals, your business, Bridal shows, example Baltimore

Friday, July 22, 2011

How to throw a formal party

throw a formal party

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."

Throw a formal party for a special occassion, fundraiser or just for an excuse to get together with friends and show off your skills. Take your time planning this event. Unlike a casual get-together, a formal party requires more attention to details- from the guest list to the decor and meal. Expectations are higher when you declare a party to be formal. Set the stage for your party with elegant party invitations. Make your own by printing the party details on an off-white piece of cardstock with a black ribbon bow tied through a hole punched at the top.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

Invitations

Music

Flowers and vases

Lights and candles

Place settings

Food

Wine

Instructions

- 1
  Carefully plan your guest list. Invite people who get along, if there is a known problem between individuals your party can become awkward quickly. Although a formal party is a chance to include new people into your circle though. Ask your close friends to invite one of their acquaintances. The unpredictability can inject a level of excitement in a formal gathering.
- 2
  Play soft music in the background. Choose jazz, Michael Buble or classical music. Have a variety of music to change throughout the evening. Program your computer, rent a stack of CD's from the library or use your iPod and speakers.
- 3
  Create a comfortable place for guests to mingle. Set out appetizers throughout the party area, and have drinks on hand. You can hire a bartender to prepare drinks for your guests. Alternately, you can designate a single signature cocktail for the party.
- 4
  Dim the lights and add candles, small lamps and strings of mini Christmas lights for an elegant atmosphere. If you are hosting the party outdoors, you can add lamps on shepherd hooks, or hang votive candles from tree branches with wire hangers.
- 5
  Flowers can be used sparingly for a formal party. A single flower looks elegant in a bud vase. Place one at every place setting. Float flowers in a glass bowl for the centerpiece. Set a formal table with a table cloth, coordinating cloth napkins and matching place settings. Use a charger to hold the place for the dinner plate and have water goblets filled with ice water. Use a glass pitcher of ice water to keep the guests glasses full throughout the meal.
- 6
  Formal dinner parties involve several courses. In general there should be two to three appetizers that can be eaten while mingling. Choose dishes that are simple to prepare and then embellish elaborately. The presentation is important at a formal party. Serve a salad, soup and then the main course. Prepare individual plates with embellishments before serving to your seated guests. After dinner, have dessert and coffee.
- 7
  If you are planning on serving wine, visit a wine shop before the party to discover the best possible choices to pair with your meal. Let the staff know exactly what you are serving and they can come up with wine that will match perfectly. You can also pick up a dessert wine to serve at the end of the meal or a bottle of champagne.

Tips &- Warnings

Decide where you want your guests to sit around the table. Use place cards to designate the seating arrangement. Planning this detail can help keep everyone engaged in the party.For example, place introverts next to yourself, or between charming people who can keep the conversation going.

Enjoy your own party. Enlist the help of friends to bring plates out to the fellow guests or hire a couple of teenagers to help serve and clear dishes.

Tags: formal party, your party, guest list, your guests

Wedding gift thankyou messages

Wedding gift thank-you messages

It's interesting:
"Henry told me he's had a little upgrade in time for his wedding night. ... Gillian Simon's wedding has been better attended than this year's Liberal ..."

After your wedding, you need to write thank-you notes for all the gifts you received. The task can seem daunting, especially if you had a large wedding or didn't know all your guests very well. Stick with a few formula messages, remember that there are two of you to complete the task and you'll get those notes written in no time.

For a Gift From Your Registry
- Thank the person specifically for the gift, such as, "Thank you for the lovely linen tablecloth." Also thank her for coming to your wedding. If it's someone you don't know well, add that it was nice to meet her or see her again at the wedding. Add a sentence about how you'll use the gift, such as, "We can't wait to use it on the table." You can add a personal sentence if you are writing to close friends, such as, "We'll have to have you over for dinner soon so you can see the tablecloth in action."
For Cash
- It's gauche to thank the giver for the exact amount of money you received. For example, don't write, "Thank you for the gift of $100." Instead write, "Thank you for the thoughtful gift." Go on to say what you plan on using the cash gift for, such as saving for a house or investing in improvements on your current home. Thank him for attending your wedding and say that you hope to see him soon.
If You Get a Gift You Don't Like
- You still need to write a thank-you card, even if it's something you plan on returning or something that will languish in the basement for years. Thank the person for the specific gift and say that you appreciate their care and thought. While you shouldn't lie and say that you'll use it, do connect the gift to the giver in some way. You can write, "Looking at the crystal bowl reminds me of you."
What to Include in Thank-You Notes
- Start the note with "Dear." Address the gift giver by the name you usually use, such as Aunt Jill or Uncle Bob. If the person isn't someone you know well, such as a friend of your spouse's parent, use Mr., Mrs. or Ms. to address them. Also speak of yourself and your spouse as a unit, use "we" instead of "myself and my spouse." If you wrote the card, sign with only your name. The same is true if your partner writes the notes.

Tags: gift such, your wedding, gift giver, know well, need write, need write thank-you

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Hot air balloon rides near sevierville tennessee

Hot air balloon rides near sevierville, tennessee

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 ..."

A hot air balloon ride provides a great way to see scenery unlike any other form of transportation. Floating above the treetops, you are able to view a panorama view of the landscape around you. Sevierville, located near the Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee, provides an ideal backdrop for a hot air balloon ride. Several hot air balloon companies provide rides within 30 miles of Sevierville.

Smokey Mountain Balloon Adventures
- Smokey Mountain Balloon Adventures provides private flights as well as discounted safari flights with departures just outside of Sevierville. A safari flight allows you to share your experience with another group or individual and you both receive a discounted price. Another unique feature is the wedding package, which gives you the option of either being married in the air or flying away right after you say your vows on the ground. They are available seven days a week for flights, depending on the weather. Smokey Mountain Balloon Adventures also offers lodging packages that include a private balloon ride.
  Smokey Mountain Balloon Adventures
  Dandridge, TN 37725
  865-484-0330
  smokymtnballoons.com
Balloon Rides Across America
- Balloon Rides Across America has private balloon flights departing from Sevierville. They provide both a.m. and p.m. take off times, which gives you a chance to experience an early morning sunrise or a late afternoon sunset. At its apex, the balloon reaches close to 3,000 feet, allowing you to view the Cherokee Lake to the north and the Douglas Lake to the south. The Great Smokey Mountains are also always visible throughout your fight, which is why they encourage you to bring a camera.
  Balloon Rides Across America
  800-592-1525
  balloonridesacrossamerica.com
Knoxville Hot Air Balloons
- Knoxville Hot Air Balloons has balloon departures less than 30 minutes from Sevierville. Your ride experience begins with an invitation to help inflate the balloon before lift off. Rides usually last around an hour, allowing you to soak up the scenery. After landing, the ride is celebrated by a toast with you and the pilot. The company also provides a chase car that will take you back to the departure spot once you land.
  Knoxville Hot Air Balloons
  Knoxville, TN 37901
  1-800-791-5867
  1800skyride.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Balloon Adventures, Mountain Balloon, Mountain Balloon Adventures, Smokey Mountain, Smokey Mountain Balloon, Across America

How to choose a hairstyle for your bridesmaids hairstyles

choose a hairstyle for your bridesmaids' hairstyles

It's interesting:
"I know it's Catherine and Stuart's wedding day, but all week I've only been thinking about what might have been … We were this close to a British ..."

While you (the bride) may have a good idea as to style your own hair for the wedding, you will also need to choose a hairstyle for your bridesmaids' hairstyles. These steps will help you easily decide this detail of your special day.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

Stylist

Bridesmaids

Bridesmaid dress style

Magazines

Newspaper

Internet

Instructions

- 1
  Consider the current length and style of your bridesmaids' hair. Some bridesmaids might not have the hair for an elaborate updo.
- 2
  Choose your bridesmaids' dresses before considering hairstyles. Pick something flattering for all that you want to see in your wedding.
- 3
  Determine whether or not they will wear anything in their hair and choose these decorations early. Order tiaras, crowns or flowers early so styles can be attempted and decided upon.
- 4
  Cut out pictures from magazines or newspapers that you like. Keep them together to compare and contrast.
- 5
  Consult your bridesmaids. Listen to any ideas they have with an open mind, you never know when a great idea will come out.
- 6
  Discuss options with a hair stylist. This can be the stylist you plan to use or any random stylist. Gather ideas from them by writing them down or even using sketches.
- 7
  Consult the Internet. Find Web sites that show pictures from many angles so you can see what the entire style looks like.
- 8
  Attend a local bridal fair if possible. Ask different vendors or stylists questions and possibly see an example.

Tips &- Warnings

Keep expenses in mind. These lovely girls are already spending money to buy a dress and shoes, and presumably a gift and maybe even hotel and travel accommodations. Make the hairstyle a lower priority if the bridesmaids' expenses are high.

Consider letting the bridesmaids choose their style. You can put basic parameters out (for example: "-Please wear it all up somehow."- or "-Leave it down in back and pull it off your face"-) and leave the rest to them. With this option they can determine what looks best on them and decide whether or not they will pay for it.

Don't forget to practice! Be sure the style is practiced on the bridesmaids if you really need to know what it will look like before the big day.

Be aware that not everyone may like your choice. Even after consulting your bridesmaids, some may not really care for your choice.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your bridesmaids, bridesmaids hairstyles, choose hairstyle, choose hairstyle your, hairstyle your

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

How to tell if vans are real

tell if vans are real

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 ..."

Vans shoes are popular skate and extreme sport footwear favored by many youths and adults worldwide. Vans is most famous for its low cut, rubber bottomed classic skate shoe. Because Vans is a brand of shoes that are highly sought after, counterfeiters have been known to produce and sell knock-off versions that still carry the Vans name and design. In order to protect yourself from purchasing a fake pair of Vans shoes, there are some simple things to be aware of if you are unsure whether or not a pair of Vans shoes is real.

Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

- 1
  Attempt to bend the toe of the shoe. Vans shoes are known for their unique rubber backing on their soles that can bend quite easily. Knock-off versions of Vans shoes typically use cheap stiff rubber that will have not have the same pliable characteristic of real Vans soles.
- 2
  Look for Vans logos on the shoes. Classic low cut Vans style shoes always have a box with the Vans logo at the heel of the shoe. A fabric tag on the side of the shoe, just below the laces, is also common on Vans shoes. Higher top skate and BMX shoes may not have the classic Vans logos on them- however they should have some form of tag or inscription on them unique to Vans.
- 3
  Compare the price that the shoes are being sold for to the price they are listed as on the official Vans website. While some stores will on occasion have shoes on sale for discounted price, Vans shoes typically carry a high price compared to generic brand shoes. Common sense is a practicable guide when it comes to price. If you feel that the price of a Vans shoe is too good to be true, it just might be.
- 4
  Compare pictures of a certain shoe you are thinking about purchasing to their entry on the official Vans website. Most stores will be able to tell you the name of each shoe, making looking up the matching shoe online easy.
- 5
  Look at the stitching, the design and the colors that each design of shoe are available in. If any of those characteristics don't match up, it's quite possible the shoe is a fake.

Tips &- Warnings

Never buy shoes from a suspicious venue, such as out of the back of someone's car, or in an unmarked warehouse. They will almost always be knock-offs.

Tags: Vans shoes, brand shoes, official Vans, official Vans website, pair Vans

Things for a dj to do at a 50th birthday party

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 ..."

Disc Jockeys are often hired to keep the party moving with dance song selections that are appropriate for the age group. The DJ should play relevant music during the 50th birthday party, organize any formal birthday party events, and initiate entertaining games and activities for guests to play. Create a tribute to the birthday person to draw attention to his life while congratulating him on the celebration of his birth. The entertainer should use caution when integrating silly games as not all games are appropriate for all personalities. Discuss any intentions with the party planner before the date of the event.

Does this Spark an idea?

Music Selection
- When planning musical selections for a 50th birthday party, oftentimes the DJ would play a wide variety of music from all genres due to the family-type nature of the guest list. If the party consists of a cocktail and dinner hour, playing timeless smooth jazz standards such as Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin while integrating some more recent jazz artists like Michael Buble, Diana Krall and Norah Jones would appeal to all age groups. During the dancing portion of the evening, it is imperative to reach all guests by plaing interactive dances such as "The Chicken Dance," "The Electric Slide" and the "YMCA." Due to the age of many guests, a number of slower tempo songs are most appropriate and save the recent pop tunes for the end of the evening when older guests have gone home.
Games and Activities
- Work with the party planner to discuss games and activities to be conducted during the celebration as some guests have varied preferences and tastes and might feel that some games are inappropriate. Guests might participate in a wet adult diaper toss, an elder cane relay race or a costume contest displaying various fashions often worn by older people. Offer prizes such as denture cream, "Help, I've Fallen and I Can't Get Up" badges and a pack of adult diapers.
Birthday Tribute
- Pay tribute to the birthday person by combining efforts with the party planner to play a game of "This is Your Life." Ask five or 10 guests to complete a questionnaire, in secret, about the birthday honoree and the DJ can read the responses aloud over the microphone. The birthday person attempts to guess the person who completed the questionnaire by his responses. Sample questions might include topics such as her favorite memory, pastime and craziest action performed with the guest of honor.
The Formalities
- A formal cake cutting ceremony can be presented by the birthday person while guests collectively sing the traditional "Happy Birthday to You" song or a version of the song might be played by the DJ. One option is to have the birthday person and his spouse cut the birthday cake in a similar manner to that of a wedding cake cutting ceremony and share a piece of cake with one another. The couple might share in a celebratory dance on the dance floor accompanied by a slower tempo song from the year in which he was born. When an alternate form of entertainment is contracted in addition to the DJ, the entertainer might be presented to the guests by the DJ and invited to use the microphone. Other forms of entertainment can include a comedian, magician or a barbershop quartet to sing "Happy Birthday."

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: birthday party, birthday person, 50th birthday, 50th birthday party, party planner, with party, with party planner

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Gay clubs in richmond va

Gay clubs in richmond, va

Several clubs in Richmond, Virginia, offer friendly and accepting meeting places for Richmond&rsquo-s gay community. People interested in dining, dancing and live music will find their needs met. Some clubs also offer activities such as karaoke, pool, TV trivia and drag shows. From a quiet night out to lively and raucous, Richmond's gay clubs have something for everyone.

Barcode
- The Barcode club and restaurant has been providing a friendly and comfortable atmosphere for Richmond&rsquo-s gay community since its opening in November 2001. Barcode attributes its success to the original owners' exceptional business sense and his emphasis on hiring a loyal and professional staff. Barcode is open every day of the week with no cover charge. After 9 p.m., the club only serves people 21 and older. Barcode offers entertaining weekly events such as karaoke on Sundays, taco nights on Tuesdays, live jukebox nights on Wednesdays and martini madness on Thursdays. Barcode&rsquo-s lunch and dinner menus feature burgers, sandwiches, salads and steak.
  Barcode
  6 East Grace Street
  Richmond, VA 23219
  804-648-2040
  barcodeva.org
Godfreys
- Located in downtown Richmond, Godfreys Restaurant and Nightclub offers a personal atmosphere where everyone from the bartenders to the managers engages with the customers. Patrons (over 18) are personally welcomed and invited to dance, eat and enjoy the weekly events. Godfreys famous drag queens take the floor every night to perform drag shows. Godfreys has fully stocked bars for people 21 and older. Brunch, dinner and late-night snacks are served. On Sundays, customers can enjoy the Sunday Drag Brunch where an excellent meal of French toast, eggs Benedict, fruit, salad, salmon, and quesadillas is served, accompanied by performances by Godfreys drag queens. Brunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and reservations are required. The Dinner Show, which runs the first and third Saturdays of each month, features gourmet meals and wine in addition to the drag show.
  Godfreys
  308 East Grace Street
  Richmond, VA 23219
  804-648-3957
  godfreysva.com
Nations
- Nations gay club strives to create a memorable experience and build relationships among people of all races, religions and sexual orientations. According to Nations myspace page, the club strives to offer an upscale experience, with live music and weekly events. Nations is a restaurant by day serving brunch and dinner, and a nightclub after the sun goes down. On Monday nights, patrons can enjoy free pool. Tuesday nights feature pizza. On Wednesdays, clubgoers can play Deal or No Deal, with the chance to win $200. Thursdays, Nations offers karaoke. Dancing is the attraction every Friday and Saturday night. The cover at Nations is $5 and you must be 21 years old to enter. Nations also hosts parties, company events and special occasions.
  Nations
  2729 West Broad Street
  Richmond, VA 23219
  804-257-9891
  myspace.com/nationsofrichmond
Artist Underground Café-
- A unique club, the Artist Underground is part restaurant, part art gallery and part college hangout. Located in the basement of the Stuart Court Apartments, the club features a menu of homemade deserts, pizza, burgers, and salads with special food discounts for students. The Artist Underground Café- has occasional poetry readings in addition to live music, a full bar, karaoke, drag shows, poker nights, and art galleries. Students in Richmond also appreciate the free wireless Internet.
  Artist Underground Café-
  1600 Monument Avenue
  Richmond, VA 23220
  804-213-0185
  sites.google.com/site/artistundergroundcafe/

Tags: Artist Underground, Artist Underground eacute-, drag shows, live music, Richmond 23219, Street Richmond, Street Richmond 23219

How to plan a catholic wedding ceremony

plan a catholic wedding ceremony

It's interesting:
"Now, I think you'll agree, after seeing the amount of free booze available at this wedding, that it's a good job it's a Bank Holiday this weekend. And if you do ..."

A wedding ceremony is a sacred event that a couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. For many couples, it's also a very religious experience. If that is the case for you and your spouse, you may be planning a Catholic wedding ceremony. There are some things you must remember if planning such a ceremony. You will also have to make some decisions based on your wishes for the event. Here is plan a Catholic wedding ceremony.

Instructions

- 1
  Choose the right priest and church to perform your Catholic wedding ceremony. Many people are actually surprised to learn that a Catholic wedding ceremony must be performed in a church. You cannot, in other words, have a “-destination wedding”- for a Catholic wedding ceremony.
- 2
  Decide whether you're going to have a wedding ceremony performed during a Catholic Mass or outside of Catholic Mass. If both you and your future spouse are baptized Catholics, you'll most likely choose to have the ceremony as part of a Catholic Mass. It isn't necessary, though. What you choose will be dependent on you and your significant other.
- 3
  Select the right scripture reading, responsorial psalm or gospel reading. Most priests will even allow you to have a say in the prayers and blessings. Remember that a Catholic wedding ceremony isn't entirely different than a normal Mass, so remember all the parts of the Mass when planning these things. They'll be at least two blessings (one at the beginning and one at the end) which you should have a say in.
- 4
  Choose the appropriate music for your Catholic wedding ceremony. For a less formal wedding ceremony, some people will select their favorite secular music. When planning a Catholic wedding ceremony, though, you will need to pick out traditional church music for walking to and from the aisle and for communion. Your priest or somebody at the church will give you a list of appropriate songs to choose from.
- 5
  Don't be afraid to write your own vows. Some who plan a Catholic wedding ceremony believe that they're not allowed to personalize their wedding vows. That isn't the case. Your vows are something special between you and your spouse. It's the part of your wedding ceremony where you and your partner have complete control.

Tags: wedding ceremony, Catholic wedding, Catholic wedding ceremony, Catholic wedding ceremony, Catholic Mass, Catholic wedding

Monday, July 18, 2011

How to make italian vegetable soup with sausage

make italian vegetable soup with sausage

It's interesting:
"For those of you who are attending their first Jewish wedding, there may be some customs you're unfamiliar with. Like when Paul stepped on the glass at the end ..."

Soup may just be the perfect food for all tastes--ideal as a side dish with a sandwich for a light lunch- or as a hearty meal for the hungriest of appetites. Browned sausage gives a tangy twist on a traditional vegetable soup. Sprinkle a little parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

1 lb. sweet sausage (without casing)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cups water

3-4 basil leaves

1 medium zucchini, cubed

2 medium carrots, diced

1 stalk celery, diced

1 can (15 oz.) chick beans, drained

1 can (16 oz.) whole tomatoes

1 can (15 oz.) chicken or beef broth

1/4 up grated parmesan cheese

Salt, pepper to taste

Instructions

Make Italian Vegetable with Sausage
- 1
  Crumble and cook sausage and onion in a three quart. pot until the sausage is light brown- drain if too greasy.
- 2
  Stir in the remaining ingredients except the cheese. Break up tomatoes with a fork.
- 3
  Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
- 4
  Add cheese. Keep covered until ready to serve.

Tips &- Warnings

To enhance the flavor, make sure the sausage is well-browned before adding other ingredients.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: vegetable soup, italian vegetable soup, make italian, parmesan cheese, soup with, soup with sausage, vegetable soup with

How to word informal wedding programs

word informal wedding programs

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 ..."

The purpose of a wedding program is to honor the people who are important to the couple, such as listing the bridal party and the couple's parents, and to explain any special ceremonies or traditions. Wedding programs usually make nice keepsakes for your guests and give those who can't make it a little insight into the wedding as well. If you want to include a program for your informal wedding, avoid using formal wording so the program doesn't seem out of place.

Instructions

- 1
  Include your names, the date and time the wedding is to take place and the location where you will be getting married. Add a picture of you and your fiance if you desire. Use your whole names or a nickname since it's not a formal wedding. For example,
  "The marriage celebration
  of
  Jenny Michaels and Robbie Jones
  4-2-11
  Beverly Hills, CA"
  Full names and spelled out dates and times are only necessary for formal weddings, although you can use them if you want.
- 2
  List the order of events to take place during your ceremony. For example, spell out the names of any readings, poems or scriptures that will be read and who will read them. Note the titles of any songs and who will perform them. Write the entire lyrics of a song if it holds special meaning to you. For example,
  "Processional--(name of song/performer)
  Opening prayer
  Scripture--(name who will read)
  Exchange of vows
  Ring Exchange
  Sand ceremony--(explain it or include a related poem if you want)
  Blessing
  Presentation of the couple
  Recessional--(song/performer)"
  You don't have to include this information if your ceremony will be short or if it seems too formal.
- 3
  Note all of the members of your bridal party and their relation, as well as any notable family members. Use only their names, omitting any titles, and possibly a nickname if it seems more fitting. For example,
  "Bride's parents--Jim and Melony Michaels
  Groom's parents--Bob and Sandy Jones
  Maid of Honor--Sally Mae Stevens (bride's sister)
  Best Man--Jimmy Franklin (groom's best friend)
  Bridesmaids--Sarah Thornton, Rachel Dean and Talia Milton
  Groomsmen--Carson Fields, Pete Adams and Carl Rhodes
  Officiant--Reverend Daniel Everrette"
  It's okay to list grandparents and other people who are special to the couple. Note the musicians if applicable.
- 4
  Tribute any family or friends who have passed on if you feel the need. This could include grandparents, parents, siblings, best friends or anyone else you will really miss on your wedding day.
- 5
  End the program by thanking your guests and leaving them with a poem, quote or personal note. The wording should be informal and reflect you, your fiance and the tone of your wedding.

Tips &- Warnings

Inject your personality into the program. There is no right or wrong way to word the program, particularly since your wedding will not be formal. Include special wording that plays off your theme. For example, if you and your fiance are huge baseball fans, use baseball wording, such as "The Michaels and Jones teams are merging!" Write the program using "first inning" to list the timeline of events and assign each member of your bridal party a position. For example, your parents could be the coaches or managers, and each of your bridesmaids and groomsmen could be allocated as the first-baseman, right-fielder, and so on.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bridal party, informal wedding, will read, your fiance, your wedding

The best red wedding table decorations

Red is the color of romance and passion, so it is a fitting color for a wedding. With so many shades of red, a wedding planner or bridal party do not have a shortage of choices for mixing colors to create wedding centerpieces. For wedding tables, shades of red should be lavish and the decorations should reflect the bride and groom's personalities and wedding theme.

Fresh Flowers
- Red roses symbolize romance.
  For a red theme, decorating a wedding table with red flowers creates a romantic ambiance. In addition to roses, begonias, carnations, hibiscus, tulips, poinsettias, hollyhocks and petunias are suitable choices for decorating a red wedding table. To make the flowers pop, use a red tablecloth with a white tulle overlay cloth, then sprinkle the flower petals of your chosen flower over the top. In the center of the table, use large, clear glass vases with your favorite red flower arrangements spilling out in a large-format bouquet. Float red roses in water in small glass vases in a line on the center of the table. Along with the flowers, use red plates and silk napkins.
Candles
- Small votive candles intermingled with the pillar and taper candles can help finish off a look.
  Craft and home decor stores offer red pillar and taper candles in bulk. Gold candelabras draped with red and gold beads and topped with the red beaded or red wax pillar or tapered candles help create a "Phantom of the Opera" look. Using large candelabras measuring 2 to 3 feet tall creates a dramatic look, especially if the bases of the candelabras are draped with red panne velvet and gold organza accents. For the table, use a red-accented tablecloth with a gold table runner to make the red candles pop.
Balloons
- Balloon bouquets are less expensive than fresh flowers.
  Red pearlescent latex balloons can be used to create balloon bouquets on a wedding table. To make a balloon bouquet, use a helium machine, balloons and ribbons. If you have a secondary color for your theme, use this color in conjunction with the red pearlescent balloons if you want. The bouquets can be as large or as small as you want, but make sure each balloon is the same size- this can be determined with a balloon sizer. Tie all the balloons together with red ribbon around the balloon necks and secure to small sandbag wrapped with shiny red paper to finish the look. Place these bouquets on the center of the table and give them away as wedding favors to children who attend your wedding.
Ostrich Feathers
- Ostrich drab feathers are less expensive than femina ostrich feathers, so these are a money-saving option for brides.
  Ostrich feathers add a touch of elegance and glamor to a wedding table, especially if the wedding has an old Hollywood feel. Centerpieces can be completed with 15 to 40 large, red-dyed ostrich feathers in a large vase with red fish rock or glass marbles filling the vases almost completely to the top. The filler will help keep the feathers in place during the ceremony. With the ostrich feathers, you can place a large centerpiece that measures 2 to 3 feet in height in the center, with smaller centerpieces measuring 1 to 2 feet high about 2 feet away on either side of the large centerpiece to create an elegant look. To add contrast, use some white ostrich feathers.

Tags: wedding table, center table, ostrich feathers, best wedding, best wedding table

Friday, July 15, 2011

Wedgwood patterns of the 1880s

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 ..."

Tags: Columbia Edge, Asiatic Pheasants, edge line, floral motifs, pattern featured

Traditional irish wedding ideas

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."

Many of the traditions associated with a classic Irish wedding differ greatly from those with which Americans are familiar. If you and your spouse hold Ireland dear, consider integrating some of these decidedly-Irish traditions into your nuptials to reflect this mutually held admiration and give your wedding a touch of classic-Irish class.

Blue-Dressed Bride
- While white is the standard color of choice for bridal gowns in most cultures, such is not the case in classic Irish tradition. Although some modern Irish brides go with white today, traditionally Irish brides have selected blue dresses, as this color was representative of purity in decades past. If you want to look like a bonny bride on your special day, consider a colored wedding gown.
Virility-Enhancing Beverage
- Perhaps it comes as no surprise that the famous-for-drinking Irish have alcohol-related wedding traditions. At classic Irish weddings, brides and grooms would share some Bunratty Meade, a honey wine. This wine was touted as virility enhancing, and was generally believed to increase the likelihood that honeymoon romantic interludes would result in a baby. Sip away at some of this Irish drink at your wedding reception to make your alcohol choice a bit more reflective of Ireland.
Stroll to the Church
- While American brides and grooms generally avoid seeing each other before that fated walk down the aisle, classic Irish couples made their first meeting a bit earlier. Traditionally, Irish brides and grooms talk together to the church at which they will exchange their vows. If you and your groom are close enough to your church of choice to make this walk, do so- if not, consider meeting up several blocks away from the venue and walking the last couple hundred yards hand and hand.
Keepsake Handkerchief
- As you prepare for your walk down the aisle, arm yourself with a handkerchief that can serve as a class Irish wedding keepsake. Traditionally, Irish brides carry a lightly embroidered handkerchief down the aisle, then later transform this fabric piece into a bonnet to grace the head of a first-born baby. Regardless of whether you decide to craft this meaningful bonnet, having a handkerchief that you carried on your special day can serve as a wonderful memento of your special day.
Wedding Day Braid
- As you plan your wedding-day hair, consider adopting an Irish-inspired braid. Irish brides traditionally wear their hair in braids, as a braid is reflective of feminine power and luck. Weave your hair into a simple braid on your special day, or ask your hairstylist to create a braid-containing up-do to reflect this Irish tradition.

Tags: Irish brides, classic Irish, your special, brides grooms, down aisle

Thursday, July 14, 2011

How to word wedding invitations with stepparents

word wedding invitations with stepparents

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 ..."

Wording wedding invitations can be tricky. Adding divorced and remarried parents to the mix makes it an even more delicate task. Etiquette and respect for your parents dictate that you must find a way to acknowledge all the parents involved while making it known who is hosting (or paying for) for the wedding. If a parent has remarried but that parent is not paying for the wedding, the stepparent does not need to be included on the invitation.

Instructions

- 1
  Construct the request line. This is the line of the invitation that states who is requesting the presence of the guest, or who is doing the inviting. Traditionally this is the parent who is paying for the bulk of the wedding. If, for example, the father of the bride is remarried, his wife should be acknowledged with him, because her finances are included in his: "Mr. and Mrs. John P. Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of his daughter, Jane P. Smith."
- 2
  Address the bride by her first and last name. Traditionally the bride is referred to by her first name only, because her parents already have been named in the request line of the invitation. But in the case of divorce and remarriage, it is not as simple. There are many forms of a modern family that might cause the recipient of the invitation to be confused if the bride's last name is not included.
- 3
  Include the second parent after the introduction of the bride. This can be done by adding, "daughter of," after the bride's name. If this parent is remarried but not hosting (paying for) the wedding, it is not appropriate to include the spouse on the invitation.
- 4
  Include the groom's parents following the same rules. If they are divorced, their spouses are included on the invitation only if they are contributing to the wedding financially.

Tips &- Warnings

If both sets of remarried parents are contributing to the wedding financially, it is important to list all four people in the request line. An easy way to word this is, "John and Kelly Smith together with Sally and Jeff Jones, request...".

Tags: paying wedding, request line, wedding invitations, contributing wedding, contributing wedding financially, hosting paying, hosting paying wedding

How to word response cards for formal wedding invitations

word response cards for formal wedding invitations

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 ..."

Response cards tucked inside a wedding invitation envelope allow guests to conveniently notify the hosts of their acceptance or regrets. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, "Once upon a time, guests replied on their own stationery. If you long for the manners and grace of the past, put R.S.V.P. in the lower left corner." However, since the tradition of a written response is old-fashioned rather than merely formal, invitees to contemporary weddings may not respond in long-hand, or possibly not respond at all. Instead of prodding guests, response cards keep head-counts efficient if worded clearly.

Instructions

- 1
  Begin the response card with a blank line, preceded by a capital letter "M." This prompts the guest to fill in his name beginning with his formal title. Examples of titles are "Mr." or "Miss."
- 2
  Include response choices for the guest to check off. "Accepts" and "regrets" are formal choices. "Not Attending" and "Attending" suffice as an alternative choice.
- 3
  Give guests a deadline. Choose formal language with traditional spellings such as, "The favour of your reply is requested," followed by the date.
- 4
  Leave the reverse side of the card blank, and do not clutter the front with additional verbiage. This allows guests to hand-write a brief congratulatory note to the couple or host if they desire to.
- 5
  Slip a stamped, pre-addressed envelope into the invitation to make it easy for guests to respond. Address the envelope to the wedding host or to the bride and groom.

Tips &- Warnings

Do not include a line asking for the number of people. According to Peggy Post, "Recipients may confuse this to mean that other members of the family are indeed invited to attend, resulting in a wedding that overflows with too many guests."

Tags: cards formal, cards formal wedding, formal wedding, formal wedding invitations, response cards, response cards formal, wedding invitations

How to structure a wedding program

structure a wedding program

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 ..."

Wedding programs come in all shapes, sizes, and designs. You can order them custom made from a printer, or design and print your own from the privacy of your home. Either way that you choose to do your programs for your wedding, you need to make sure that you include the information that will let your guests know who, what, where, and when the event occurred.

Things You'll Need

Paper

Names of those participating

Order of the ceremony

Readings included in the ceremony

Songs used for ceremony

Instructions

- 1
  Record everything on paper before you begin. Whether you will be taking the information to the printer or making the programs at home, you need to have a rough draft of your program on paper. This will make it less likely for you to forget someone. Don't even consider entering your info into a word processor or project creator until you have gotten everything down on paper.
- 2
  Start the program with "The wedding of" or the names of the bride and groom followed by "... welcome you to celebrate their marriage". When formatting this first section, use the full names of both the bride (bride first) and groom. Also include the venue, time, and date of the ceremony. Many people keep these programs for scrapbooks.
- 3
  Use the left hand side of the page (if using one full page), or the portion of the page left of the fold (if using a folded page), for the bridal party. Use the right side of the page, or the portion right of the fold, for the ceremony information.
- 4
  Divide the left side of the page, or the portion left of the fold, into two columns. One side of this column will be for the bride and her family and attendants while the other column will be for the groom and his party. Always start with the names of the parents of the bride and groom. List the parents as Mr. and Mrs. or Ms,, depending on their marital status. For extra formality, include the middle initial of the parents.
- 5
  Follow the parents' names with the grandparents of the bride and groom, if living. Grandparents should also be listed with formal names.
- 6
  Follow the grandparents' names with the names of the bridal party and the groomsmen. List the maid/matron of honor and best man first followed by additional attendants. Use the first and last names of the attendant. If room allows, include the relationship of the attendants to the bride and groom. Under the bride's side, list the flower girl while listing the ring bearer under the groom.
- 7
  List the name of the person escorting the bride down the aisle. Not all brides are escorted by their fathers. Some situations require a brother, uncle, or even their mother to escort them down the aisle. Be sure to include the bridal escort's name in the program.
- 8
  Complete the left side of the page with a listing of other participants including the officiant, organist, guest book attendant, and program attendant. It might seem silly to include all these people but you don't want your guests asking "Who is that guy?" in the middle of the ceremony.
- 9
  Start the right side of the page, or right of the fold, with a listing of the songs that will be played while guests are being seated. Include the name of the song as well as the composer. If you have a soloist planned, include her name as well.
- 10
  List any readings that will be included in the ceremony. There is no need to include the text of the reading just include the information so that the guests can find it in their bibles. In a Catholic wedding you will have more readings than in other weddings so remember to include them all.
- 11
  Follow the readings with an outline of the remainder of the wedding including the exchange of vows, exchange of rings, and the lighting of the unity candle. If songs are played during these portions of the wedding, list them as well.
- 12
  Complete the program with a thank you from the new bride and groom to their parents, and guests.

Tips &- Warnings

Play around with the design, especially if you are printing your own programs. Change fonts and type face to allow for more room. Just don't make it so small that grandpa will need his magnifying glass to read it.

Use a quality paper. You can pick up quality paper at an office supply store. Heavy weight paper will make the programs seem more formal.

Make sure you spell everyones names right. Proofread the program several times and have someone else proofread it as well.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, side page, page portion, that will, bridal party, column will, down aisle

Friday, July 29, 2011

Waterfront restaurants in pinellas county, florida

Dave's Dockside Grill

Caddy's on the Beach

Woody's Waterfront Cafe and Beach Bar

Western style wedding dresses on a budget

Sales

Online Auctions

Something Borrowed

Pinatas & mexican traditions

History of Pinatas

Las Posadas

Birthday Parties

Pinatas

Breaking the pinata

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Tropical flowers to go on wedding cakes

Choosing the Cake Style

Tropical Flower Choices

Tropical Flowers for a Sheet Cake

Tropical Flowers on a Tiered Cake

tour coronado island

Things You'll Need

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Riverboat cruises

Southern Belle: Chattanooga, Tennessee

New Orleans Mississippi River Cruises

Riverboat Discovery: Fairbanks, Alaska

BB Riverboats: Cincinnati, Ohio

Black-tie wedding reception etiquette

Significance

History

Time Frame

Size

Identification

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

write a wedding ceremony

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

choose country dance music

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

Monday, July 25, 2011

Information on pink sapphires

Rubies

Pink Sapphires

Clarity Issues

Uses in Jewelery Design

Famous Pink Sapphires

make a free wedding program

Things You'll Need

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

be a wedding planner in maryland

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

Friday, July 22, 2011

throw a formal party

Things You'll Need

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

Wedding gift thank-you messages

For a Gift From Your Registry

For Cash

If You Get a Gift You Don't Like

What to Include in Thank-You Notes

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Hot air balloon rides near sevierville, tennessee

Smokey Mountain Balloon Adventures

Balloon Rides Across America

Knoxville Hot Air Balloons

choose a hairstyle for your bridesmaids' hairstyles

Things You'll Need

Instructions

Tips &- Warnings

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

tell if vans are real

Instructions