Lakeside wedding reception ideas

It's interesting:
"Humorous wedding observations ... Traditional outfits * Scottish dress * Marquee * Wedding venue (golf club, castle, barn, posh) * Wedding location ..."

A lakeside reception can by idyllic and dreamy, but there are certain challenges to keep in mind. If your lakeside spot isn't part of a public park or another area that is clearly marked, be sure to place large signs that lead from the main road down to your reception site so guests won't get lost. Be sure to rent a tent or have a backup location in case of rain so you can enjoy your day without worrying about the weather.

1. Arrive by Boat

   • Make your grand entrance and exit by boat. Hire a boat or ask a friend who owns one to be your chauffeur. Have the limo drop you off at a dock on the other side of the lake from the reception where the boat is waiting, then drive up to the reception while all the guests are gathered on the shore. Decorate the dock in advance with flower petals or candles to make your first entrance as a married couple even more special. At the end of the reception, the guests can wave sparklers as you leave by boat and head back to the dock where the limo waits. Invite the bridal party to ride in the boat with you or ask them to take a car to the reception if you and your spouse want to arrive alone.

   Blanket Favors

   • Since it can get cool and windy next to a lake, especially in the evening, "The Knot" suggests giving blankets as favors to your guests. Buy blankets in bulk that match your wedding colors if possible. Place the blankets on the guests' chairs so they can use them during the evening if they get chilly.

   Twinkle Lights

   • Use twinkle lights to make the reception feel romantic and to light the area after dark. Hang strands of white or yellow twinkle lights in the bushes and inside the tent. Wrap them around tree trunks and arrange them in the tree branches. If there's a dock, string the lights along the edge. Stick stakes in the ground at the edge of the lake and string the lights in between them. This will provide light for any guests who want to walk by the lake and will be a beautiful backdrop for photos.

   Provide Flip-Flops

   • Some guests are bound to come to the reception wearing heels, which will make walking in the grass or sand difficult. Buy several dozen pairs of cheap flip-flops in a variety of sizes and place them in a basket near where guests will enter the reception. Guests who don't want to go barefoot can change into flip-flops so they won't have to miss out on dancing or walking in the grass or sand.

   Games

   • An outdoor lakeside wedding will make guests feel like they're celebrating a long weekend in summer, and having some games will add to that vibe. It's also a good way to entertain any children who are attending your ceremony. Avoid any games that involve running or are noisy and opt instead for a bean bag toss, table tennis or shuffleboard. Set everything up just off to the side of your reception area so the games are easily accessible without being disruptive to other guests.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: grass sand, Lakeside wedding reception, reception ideas, string lights, walking grass, walking grass sand, wedding reception

Etiquette for a wedding day program

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."

According to Martha Stewart Weddings, because a wedding program is not a requirement, it doesn't have to adhere to strict etiquette rules. This allows the couple to be creative, express themselves and highlight what they consider to be important about the wedding ceremony. Although there are no set rules for the contents of a wedding program, there are many elements that are considered standard. These elements can serve as a basis for creating a wedding program.

1. The Title

   • Begin the program with the names of the bride and groom along with the wedding date. This can be on the front cover or serve as the heading if using a single-page program. Whether you choose to use first names only and an abbreviated date or have the full names and dates written out will depend on how formal the ceremony is.

   Participants

   • List the names everyone who will be walking down the aisle, in order of the procession. Identify their relationships to the couple or their roles in the wedding party. You may also list honored guests ("Aunt Emma is celebrating her 85th birthday today!"), mention special persons who could not attend ("We wish you could be here, Jack. Our thoughts are with you as you serve our country overseas.") or remember a deceased relative. Providing the names of the celebrant and musicians is optional.

   The Ceremony

   • List the events that will occur during the ceremony. Include the words to readings, prayers, poems, hymns or songs for guests who want to read or sing along during the ceremony. You may also include a note about the significance of certain elements. The vows can be added so that guests won't miss a single word. A description of the meaning of any ceremonial rituals with which some guests may not be familiar is another option for the wedding program.

   Extras

   • The story of how the bride and groom met, why they chose this location or the lyrics to their wedding song are examples of extras that may not be part of the ceremony but add a personal touch.

   The End

   • Although etiquette doesn't dictate how a program should end, a thank you is always appropriate. The wedding program should contain an expression of gratitude to guests for attending as well as mention of anyone who deserves special recognition. The program can end on this note, or the thanks can be followed with a line from the bride and groom ("We look forward to seeing you at the reception."), directions to the reception or more traditionally, a verse or quote about love and marriage.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding program, bride groom, during ceremony, Etiquette wedding, Etiquette wedding program, program should

Wedding surprise gifts

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

Instead of giving the usual toaster oven or blender as a congratulatory present, give the bride and groom a surprise wedding gift they will love and remember. Choose to arrange a special surprise that will treat the newlyweds on their honeymoon, arrange for the couple to be serenaded or, if they are animal lovers, consider giving a gift certificate to adopt a furry friend.

1. Honeymoon Flowers and Massage

   • If you know where the bride and groom are vacationing for their honeymoon, you can surprise them by calling ahead and arranging a large bouquet of flowers to be placed in their hotel suite. You can even ask for a bottle of champagne to be placed next to the flowers, so the newlyweds can have a celebratory toast together. You can surprise the couple with a scheduled private massage. To organize this surprise gift, ask the bride and groom where they will be staying, then contact the concierge of the hotel to make arrangements.

   A Serenade

   • You don't have to pay a lot of money when it comes to wedding gifts, so surprise the bride and groom with a serenaded song during the reception. A member of the wedding party can sing or you can hire a local cover artist to belt out a romantic ballad from the likes of Frank Sinatra or Michael Buble. If the bride or groom are up to it, they can even do the serenading themselves for their new spouse, backed up by a solo classical guitar or even a mariachi band.

   A New Pet

   • If you know the married couple has been considering getting a new pet, surprise them with an adoption gift certificate at the wedding. The ASPCA provides Gift-A-Pet Certificates that you can give as presents, which covers all the costs of adopting a cat or kitten. Local pet stores may also sell gift certificates to use for adopting pets. One of the advantages of the certificates is that the married couple can wait for the perfect time to welcome a new furry friend into their home.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, furry friend, gift certificate, married couple, surprise gifts, surprise them, their honeymoon

The best places to stay in california wine country

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

There are many different kinds of lodgings available in the Napa-Sonoma wine country: high-end spas, smaller hotels and modest smaller properties that provide good value. This article covers only the very best places to stay in Napa and Sonoma in the opinion of experienced travel writers writing for major magazines and newspapers. Unsurprisingly, these are quite expensive. Added to the list are two unique, smaller and less expensive properties that offer unusual value and that have consistently received high-ratings from similar travel sources.

1. High-End Properties: Carneros Inn

   • Zagat's highest-rated Napa lodging, and certainly one of the most expensive, the Carneros Inn sits beautifully in the midst of 27 carefully tended acres. Accommodations are luxurious and contemporary. Separate cottages provide privacy and calming views of the vineyards. There are two separate pool areas, one for adults only, the other for families, as well as three full-service restaurants, spa treatments and room service. As of early 2010, cottages are $600/night and upward.

     Carneros Inn
     

     4048 Sonoma Highway
     

     Napa, CA 94559
     

     (707) 299-4900
     

     thecarnerosinn.com/thecarnerosinn/

   High End Properties: Calistoga Ranch

   • Another beautiful and astronomically expensive Napa Valley resort, Calistoga Ranch is tucked into a deep canyon overlooking the valley. Forty-six cottages are scattered over 157 mountain acres. Individual fireplaces are the central feature of each cottage, decorated in what the owners describe as "rural chic." Celebrity spottings are not uncommon and the dining room is for resort guests only, so privacy is both necessary and assured. Amenities include hiking, biking, swimming and spa treatments. Calistoga Ranch is rated in the top 10 US resorts by Travel and Leisure Magazine. Rates start at $1,000/night.

     Calistoga Ranch
     

     580 Lommel Road
     

     Calistoga, CA 94515
     

     (707) 264-2800
     

     calistogaranch.com/

   Unique Experiences: Auberge du Soleil

   • Auberge du Soleil ("Inn of the Sun" and pronounced Oh-berj d' So-lay) was Napa's first high-end resort, and is beautifully maintained and situated, overlooking the Silverado Trail and the vineyards beyond. Food has been a particular virtue of the Auberge experience, and remains so today. The less-expensive (and still pricey) rooms in the main lodge are slightly smaller than the newer and even more expensive individual lodges, but there is a beautiful view, a large pool, a variety of spa treatments and an efficient and experienced staff. As of early 2010, rates range from $575 for rooms in the main house to $3500 for a "private maison."

     Auberge du Soleil
     

     180 Rutherford Hill Road
     

     Rutherford, CA 94573
     

     (707) 963-1211
     

     aubergedusoleil.com/

   Unique Experiences: Poetry Inn

   • Best described as either an extremely luxurious bed and breakfast or a small and stylish inn, Poetry Inn has only four rooms plus a suite located in a single attractive building. A pool and spa are available. The atmosphere is more that of a European private villa than of a commercial lodging. Breakfast is served, and wine and cheese are available, but there is no dining room. Yountville, with a dazzling number of fine restaurants for a small village, is only about eight minutes away. As of early 2010, rooms start at a little over $500/night. For a surprising number of affluent travelers, this charming small inn remains their wine country favorite.

     Poetry Inn
     

     6380 Silverado Trail
     

     Napa, CA 94558
     

     (707) 944-0646
     

     poetryinn.com/

   Some Less Expensive and Unique Lodgings

   • Napa River Inn is a converted granary in downtown Napa- it is charming, contemporary, and priced at less than $200/night.

     Napa River Inn
     

     500 Main St
     

     Napa, CA 94559
     

     (707)251-8504
     

     napariverinn.com/

     Just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma, Les Petite Maisons (the little houses) are four beautifully-maintained individual cottages surrounding a common garden. It is "One of the Most Romantic Getaways in the US," according to Sunset Magazine, February 2007. As of February 2010, cottages are $130 to $155/night, and about a third more in the high season.

     Les Petite Maisons
     

     1190 E. Napa St.
     

     Sonoma, CA 95476
     

     (800) 933-0340
     

     lespetitesmaisons.com/

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Calistoga Ranch, wine country, Auberge Soleil, best places, best places stay

How to plan a timeline for my wedding day

plan a timeline for my wedding day

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."

Planning out the wedding day itself can be challenging--coordinating schedules and booking venues are just the tip of the iceberg. Predicting how long the wedding party will be stuck in traffic, when Uncle So-and-so will actually sit down after making his toast, and when you and your spouse finally will have had enough of the festivities seems practically impossible, yet this is the task at hand. Successfully preparing a wedding day timeline requires foresight and flexibility.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper

Instructions

1. • 1

     Decide what venues and wedding professionals are must-haves for your big day. If you are determined to be married at The Plaza Hotel, and you just have to have Renaldo style your hair, you might have to work around others' schedules. Find out what scheduling needs are out of your control so that you can block out those times accordingly.

   • 2

     Determine what you most want to accomplish and the driving logistics between events. If you really want to take downtown pictures in the morning, factor in whether you actually will be able to make it back to the countryside by brunch. When analyzing travel time, consider weather and road conditions, hedging your assumptions to leave room for unforeseeable delays.

   • 3

     Identify the difference between what you want to participate in versus what you have the energy to do. Even if an extra event could be squeezed in, determine whether the added activity is too demanding given the stress and excitement of the day. Many wedding-related rituals can take place the week before the ceremony, freeing up your schedule on the big day.

   • 4

     Combine all the relevant information you have, setting tentative times for getting ready, eating, driving to events, celebrating at events and ending the festivities. When possible, maintain normal meal times to help you and your intended stay healthy, positive and vibrant.

Tips &- Warnings

• When planning a timeline for your wedding day, the need to compromise is inevitable. Decide what matters most and what matters least, making concessions as appropriate.

• You cannot please everyone, regardless of how thoughtful and conscientious your wedding day schedule is. Focus on what works best for you and your fiance, recognizing that others can choose whether they want to work around your big plans.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Decide what, plan timeline, plan timeline wedding, timeline wedding, what matters, work around

Kids party rooms in staten island

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

For many parents, planning a child's birthday party can be a difficult task, particularly when accommodating the child's classmates. To accommodate large birthday parties, families in Staten Island, New York have the option of renting kids party rooms. For a per child fee, kids party rooms in Staten Island offer a variety of experiences for a birthday child, from immersive jungle gyms to pottery making.

1. RollerJam USA

   • Located on Richmond Valley Road, RollerJam USA offers private parties the option of exclusive use of either a roller skating rink or a bounce castle. Private parties at RollerJam USA are also given exclusive use of a private room, one slice of pizza per guest, refreshments, paper goods, balloons and invitations. For guests renting the roller skating rink, skate rental, live music and a light show are also included. Guests are permitted to purchase trays of food for an additional cost. As of 2011, RollerJam USA offers a two-hour party package for 15 children for $369 on weekends and $269 on weekdays, with an additional cost of $19.95 per additional child and $4.95 for an additional adult.

   Chelsea Playground

   • Chelsea Playground, located on Chelsea Road, offers private parties the opportunity to play on a large playground complete with three levels of tunnels and tubes, a rock climbing wall and a kids village. Private parties are given a dedicated party host, one hour of playtime and one hour of use of a private room. For private parties, Chelsea Playground provides unlimited pizza, beverages and popcorn, as well as invitations, party goods and a cake. Private parties also have the option of adding custom items, such as balloons, a piñ-ata, catering and extended playtime. As of 2011, the basic party package offered by Chelsea Playground costs $275 on weekdays or $325 on weekends for 10 children, with an additional cost of $21.99 on weekdays or $24.99 on weekends for additional children.

   Created By You

   • Created By You, located on New Dorp Lane, offers a variety of pottery and craft creation options for private parties. Private birthday parties at Created By You have the option of painting cupcakes, cupcake plates, bowls, mugs or ceramic pieces, or making invisible ink, slime, play-doh or a disco necklace. Private parties include paper goods, invitations, pizza, refreshments, personal instruction for party-goers, setup and cleanup. The cost of a private party at Created By You depends on the craft activity, but ranges between $209 to $309 for 12 children, and between $12 and $20 for an additional child.

   The Party Jungle

   • Located on Sharrotts Road, The Party Jungle offers two private rooms for birthday parties. The Monkey Room, which holds up to 75 people, offers the use of a three-story jungle gym for $389 on weekends or $299 on weekdays. The Giraffe Room, which holds up to 60 people, offers a two-story jungle gym for $315 on weekends or $239 on weekdays. All private parties at The Party Jungle provide pizza, unlimited refreshments and popcorn, face painting and tattoos, free video games, paper goods and invitations. The Party Jungle also offers extras for private parties for purchase, including balloons, cotton candy, piñ-atas and water bottle favors.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: private parties, Chelsea Playground, Party Jungle, party rooms, additional cost, birthday parties

Kids birthday party ideas in redmond, washington

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

Redmond, located 16 miles east of Seattle, is a family-friendly community that is also home to the Microsoft Corporation. Parks and recreational opportunities abound in the greater Redmond area for parents and children as well as indoor venues for activities on rainy days. Parents planning a memorable birthday party for their child have several venues to consider in Redmond.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Marymoor Park

   • Reserve one of several sheltered picnic areas at Redmond's 640-acre Marymoor Park for an outdoor children's birthday party with plenty of space to play. Many shelters include barbecues, electricity and sinks for preparing party treats on site. In between feasting on snacks and birthday cake, kids can play party games on grassy areas, watch cyclists at the 400-meter Velodrome track or play on the playground. A bicycle trail is available for party guests to ride together and athletic fields may be used for a game of kickball for older party members.

     Marymoor Park

     King County Parks and Recreation

     6046 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE

     Redmond, WA 98052

     206-205-3661

     kingcounty.gov

   Brat Pack Salon

   • For a girl's birthday to remember in Redmond, schedule a spa party at Brat Pack Salon for up to six friends. Once they arrive, party attendees may select a bathrobe and hair accessories and settle down for a relaxing foot soak. Music plays and sparkling beverages are served on a silver platter while guests arrive and then the glamorous fun begins. Hair is twisted and braided, fingernails are painted and temporary tattoos are applied according to guests' selections. The Royal birthday package also includes a group photo and disposable cameras to capture the party as well as indulge in cupcakes from home. Parties are available on weekends at Brat Pack Salon and parents are encouraged to drop off guests, as space allows only two parents to remain in the party area. Brat Pack Salon is located near downtown Redmond at the intersection of Northeast 87th Street and 161st Avenue.

     Brat Pack Salon

     16116 NE 87th Street

     Redmond WA 98052

     425-883-1006

     bratpacksalon.com&lrm-

   Tumblebus

   • To liven up a party in Redmond, consider booking the Tumblebus to travel to your home and park a gym on wheels right out front. Created from a reconditioned 35-foot school bus, the Tumblebus provides party attendees with one hour of tumbling fun and games led by two instructors. Parents may view the action from the front of the bus or escort a shy child to the back if necessary. Tumblebus offers guidelines to parents regarding the number of children to invite to the party based on age and allows larger groups to enter the bus in phases. Tumblebus has a bus stop in Bellevue that hosts parties or the bus will travel to homes in Redmond and the greater Eastside area.

     Dizzy's Tumblebus

     3205 148th Ave. SE, Ste E.

     Bellevue, WA 98007

     425-564-8287

     dizzybus.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Brat Pack, Brat Pack Salon, Pack Salon, birthday party, Marymoor Park, 87th Street

Engagement ring engravement ideas

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 ..."

Finding the right words to engrave on an engagement ring changes it from a piece of jewelry to an eternal sentiment. The offering of an engagement ring typically comes with a proposal of marriage. The acceptance of the ring is an agreement to the marriage by the recipient. On the small space available, the engraving should reflect this moment in time to be shared for years to come.

1. The Question

   • Considering the small space available for engraving on an engagement ring, a full declaration of love is not possible. "Will you marry me Cindy?" is a doubtful fit. Shortening the phrase to "marry me" makes the sentiment viable. You can convey the same feeling in a variety of short but clear messages. "Always" or "forever" are two words reflecting the intention of the marriage question, as is "eternal". A thicker band may hold "Be my wife."

   Names

   • Marriage begins as two people deciding to live their lives together. The engagement ring is a symbol to all of this decision. Engraving names on the ring further symbolizes this commitment. If the names of the couple are short, such as "Tim" and "May," both names will most likely fit. For longer names, consider placing the bride-to-be's name only. The name addition might include a very short phrase. For example "My Trisha" will typically fit on the band. For ladies or gentlemen with long names, consider using a nickname or pet name.

   Dates

   • With all the talk of marriage and setting a wedding date, the date of the engagement can get lost in the shuffle. Forever remember the date she accepted the ring by engraving it. Months with short names, such as May or June, may be engraved as words. Longer names, including December and September, might be turned into representative numbers.

   Symbols

   • Engraving symbols onto an engagement ring can eliminate the space issue. A single heart, the universal symbol of love, engraved in the center of the ring is a simplistic way to express the emotion. Similarly, a band engraved with as many hearts as will fit might represent an abundance of love. The symbols "xoxo" represent "kisses and hugs" in the signature line of a love letter. These same symbols on an engagement ring may show an intention of affection. The endless Celtic knot is sometimes used as a symbol of eternity. For the astrological believer, birth signs can be an option. Many birth signs have simplistic representations you can engrave onto an engagement ring as a pair.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: engagement ring, available engraving, birth signs, engagement ring, engagement ring, Engagement ring engravement

Tourist attractions in tampa, florida

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 ..."

Tampa Bay is a city in Florida that allows outdoor enthusiasts a chance to enjoy year-round activities outdoors because of its climate. Activities in Tampa include playing golf at the Pebble Creek Golf Course, catching fish on the Gone Fishing Charters and canoeing at the Canoe Escape. Tourists and visitors come to Tampa to experience many of its attractions.

1. Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo

   • The Lowry Park Zoo was ranked the Number One zoo in the United States by Parents magazine 2009 and Child magazine 2004, according to the Lowry Park Zoo's website. The outdoor exhibits showcase more than 2,000 animals. The zoo features hands-on interactive exhibits, shows and rides. The zoo also has a River Odyssey Eco-Cruise, which takes visitors on a boat on the Hillsborough River to see manatees, hawks, herons and river turtles (extra fee applies). For children the park has a video arcade, water play area and children's playground.

     Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo

     1101 W. Sligh Ave.

     Tampa, FL 33604

     813-935-8552

     lowryparkzoo.com

   Busch Gardens

   • Busch Gardens is located in Tampa and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal to animals, go on a safari ride, ride roller coasters, view shows and live entertainment. The park also offers a children's park called Sesame Street Safari of Fun, which has kid-size rides, water fun and a tree house. Some of the shows include the Critter Castaways, KaTonga, Let's Dance, Sesame Street 4-D and Rock a Doo Wop. The park features a variety of restaurants, snack shops and gift shops. Animal attractions are the Bird Gardens, Edge of Africa, Jambo Junction, Rhino Rally, Lory Landing, Jungala, Myombe Reserve and Serengeti Plain.

     Busch Gardens

     10165 N. McKinley Drive

     Tampa, FL 33612

     888-800-5447

     buschgardens.com

   The Florida Aquarium

   • The Florida Aquarium is another tourist attraction located in Tampa. The aquarium has exhibits which consist of the Wetlands, Bays & Beaches, Coral Reef and Ocean Commotion. The Wetlands exhibit features birds, alligators and river otters. The Bays & Beaches exhibit displays more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals that live along the Florida shores. The Coral Reef offers two interactive programs. The Swim with the Fishes program is for children (six and older) and adults and is a 30-minute experience of scuba diving with tropical fish (no previous training or experience is required). The other program is called Dive with the Sharks and visitors must be a certified SCUBA diver and at least 15 years old to do this program. Divers will get a chance to become face-to-face with sharks in a 93,000-gallon saltwater exhibit.

     The Florida Aquarium

     701 Channelside Drive

     Tampa, FL 33602

     813-273-4000

     flaquarium.org

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Lowry Park, Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, attractions tampa, attractions tampa florida

Keepsake gifts for a 25th wedding anniversary

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 ..."

If you've reached your 25th wedding anniversary, this is a major milestone to be celebrated and honored. The quarter-century anniversary is called the silver anniversary, and gifts for this occasion often center on a silver theme. If you keep your loved one's desires in mind and be creative, you should find a gift that will be a reminder of the last 25 years, as you look forward to the next 25.

1. Gifts For Her

   • Jewelry is always a good anniversary gift.

     While it may seem an obvious choice, silver jewelry can be a meaningful and special gift. After all these years, chances are you know your spouse's favorite jewelry shop. Talk to the jeweler about something special for the occasion. It's also a great occasion for upgrading her engagement ring or adding another ring to her wedding finger. If she's a great cook, think about a new set of fancy stainless steel cookware- while it's not actually silver, it makes the same statement.

   Gifts for Him

   • Cuff links are also a good anniversary gift idea.

     Silver jewelry is also an option for the men, too. Items like cuff links, a watch, simple bracelets or a new ring may suit your man's style. Other silver options include money clips, belt buckles and key chains. Adding personalized engraving, such as your wedding date, a favorite quote or saying or your monogram, makes for a nice personal touch. Theme your gift around a hobby, like golf or fishing, by choosing a related item such as a silver golf ball paperweight.

   Gifts for Both

   • A picture frame with a meaning picture could be the perfect idea.

     Photographs are always an appreciated gift, so consider putting together an album of memories. A silver-plated scrapbook album full of ticket stubs, photos, plane tickets--any kind of memento from the last 25 years--will make for a treasured keepsake. Many online retailers offer slick photo books that look like professional coffee table books once complete, so if you're not crafty, consider that option. A framed photo of your honeymoon or wedding in a sterling silver picture frame with engraving is another gift idea.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: 25th wedding, 25th wedding anniversary, wedding anniversary, anniversary gift, frame with

June wedding colors

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 ..."

June is a month that is very popular for weddings due to its warm weather and beautiful foliage. Many settings are suitable for a June wedding, especially for individuals who desire an outdoor ceremony or reception. Choosing a color scheme is an important step in the wedding planning process as it establishes the atmosphere as well as dictates the decor and bridal attire.

1. Modern Colors

   • June is a time of warmth that predicts the months of sunshine and heat to come. Many summer wedding palettes can be created from the bright, energized contemporary colors that are currently popular. Choose from a range of colors that include vibrant greens, oranges, purples, pinks, yellows and blues, such as fuchsia, turquoise and chartreuse. Consider the implications of certain shades- emerald green is the color of grass, bright yellows are reminiscent of the sun and pink is symbolic of love and marriage. Extend these contemporary color themes to areas of your wedding such as food with signature desserts or cocktails such as apple or watermelon cosmopolitans.

   Traditional Colors

   • You can also choose to decorate your June wedding with more traditional summer colors. Forego the flashy contemporary colors that are currently popular in favor of softer shades. Since June is a month that falls between spring and the height of summer, try lighter, pastel variations of your favorite greens, pinks and purples. Traditional shades of purple for June include lavender and orchid. Other colors that are popular for late spring and early summer weddings include pale shades of blue, yellow and coral. Another more traditional option for your June wedding is light, shimmery metallics such as champagne.

   Color Pairs

   • A broad variety of color combinations can be created from the modern and traditional colors associated with June weddings. Contemporary palettes include dynamic pairings such as orange and fuchsia, pink, or aqua blue, with brown and hot pink and green. Another popular wedding color trend is mixing black, a color traditionally avoided for weddings, with white or any bright color. For those who want a modern spin for their wedding while only using one color, monochromatic color schemes incorporate several shades of the same base color. More traditional color pairings for June weddings are pastel purple and green, pale pink and yellow, white and pink and light blue with ivory.

   Themes

   • Establishing a theme for your wedding is a great way to inspire an appropriate color palette. June offers many opportunities for themes, many of which are outdoors. Consider ideas such as a garden, beach, rustic country or western, Hawaiian luau, butterfly or poolside wedding. A matching color palette will often arise easily from these themes, such as aqua blue as the main color for a beach wedding or shades of green for a garden wedding. You can also look to color wheels for inspiration.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: June wedding, colors that, aqua blue, blue with, color palette, colors that currently

Checklist for hosting a bridal shower

It's interesting:
"That said, nobody wants the wedding party to go straight from the reception to the divorce courts, so your humour will need to be pitched just right. You want ..."

A bridal shower is a special event to celebrate the bride's transition from the single life to married bliss. If you are planning a bridal shower for your friend or sibling, use a planning checklist to help ensure everything is taken care of. A detailed list will help any bridesmaid or maid of honor plan a fun-filled and stress-free bridal shower.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Select Date and Create Guest List

   • Meet with the mother of the bride and the bridesmaids to determine the guest list and date of the event. According to "Emily Post's Etiquette," the wedding shower is held a minimum of two weeks before the wedding date, but for the sake of sanity, try to plan it for earlier than this. Before finalizing the guest list, check with the bride to determine the list of people she would like to have attend the party.

   Choose Theme and Location

   • If possible, hold the bridal shower at your home or a bridesmaid's apartment. Choose a space large enough to accommodate the bridal party, family friends and the bride's work colleagues. Select a bridal shower theme such as Lingerie, Nautical, Tea Party or a Wine Party for the event. Ensure that the theme reflects the bride's style, taste and food preferences, and that the theme is appropriate for the guest list. If you want something more intimate, you may want to have a few close friends over to someone's house or apartment.

   Menu Planning and Invitations

   • If a caterer is required for the event, plan the menu a minimum of three months before the shower, especially if the wedding is held in the height of wedding season. If you are catering the event yourself, plan the menu four to six weeks before the shower date. Once the theme and date are set, send invitations to the guest list. Purchase the invitations at a stationery or paper store eight weeks before the event. If you are printing the invitations yourself, buy stamps, ink for your printer and a pre-made invitation kit that includes the envelopes and card stock for the invitations. Purchase these items eight weeks before the event. Send the invitations four to six weeks before the event's date, after you finalize the guest list.

   Games and Activities

   • Games and activities are almost as customary as throwing the bouquet at the wedding, and there are plenty of games to choose from. Some bridal shower games include: The Purse Scavenger Hunt, Who Knows the Bride Best? or A Wedding Word Scramble. To create the best bridal shower experience, have a variety of activities suitable for party participants of all ages.

   Purchase Gifts &- Notebook to Record Gifts

   • Purchase small gifts for each winner of the bridal shower games. For the tea party theme, wrap homemade cookies in cellophane tied with a bow. Or buy an inexpensive tea and saucer set for each individual winner. Write down the name of the gift giver in a notebook to help the bride write the customary bridal shower thank-you notes later.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bridal shower, weeks before, guest list, before event, weeks before event, before shower

Curly short wedding hairstyles

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."

Short hair can still look glamorous on your wedding day. Opt for soft waves or romantic curls or add special headpieces to extremely short hair. Consider hair extensions if you want long hair on your wedding day, or try hair pieces to help create more volume for tousled updos. Short-haired brides can also experiment with bedazzled hair accessories.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Soft Waves

   • Use rag rollers to create soft waves reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. This style works especially well on those who have naturally wavy hair. Blow dry the hair smooth until only slightly damp, using a paddle brush if necessary. Wind the damp hair into small sections around strips of fabric or other soft cloth material. Knot rags at your scalp to secure. Allow hair to set overnight if possible for optimal results, or sit under a hood dryer if you have less time to prepare your hair. Jumbo rollers can be used in place of rag rollers. Remove the rollers and spray your hair with a light mist of hair spray to keep it in place. Add jeweled barrettes if desired.

   Romantic Curls

   • As a short-haired bride, you can still have romantic curls on your wedding day. Even hair that is cut boy-short can have spirals and tendrils by using faux hair pieces. With your real hair or hair pieces, blow dry the hair smooth with a paddle brush first, as this will help the curls look more defined and sleek. Use a medium-barrel curling iron to create 1 to 1.5-inch curls all over your head. Set with hairspray after the creation of each curl to prevent the curls from falling before the hairstyle is completed. Pin back bangs (or would-be bangs if you have none) and secure with jeweled bobby pins. Push this hair toward your face with your fingers to create a bump. Tease hair beforehand if necessary for added lift. Add other hair decorations as desired.

   Short Hair With Headpiece

   • Brides with very short hair that is tapered at the sides can still look elegant on their wedding day. First, add a texturizing spray to towel-dried hair and blow dry. Use your fingers to lift the hair from the root, paying special attentionto the crown. Use some light hair wax to define a wide side part. Use a floral headpiece/headband to accentuate this type of hairstyle. Place the headpiece above the forehead but just below the crown so enough hair is parted in the front to compliment the back. Adjust the headpiece back slightly if necessary instead of forward toward the forehead.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: hair pieces, your wedding, Curly short, Curly short wedding, hair smooth, hair that

Ideas for jewel centerpieces for a wedding

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

The centerpieces at your wedding reception use the theme colors to create an elegant dé-cor on each table. Gemstones and crystals create sparkle on the tables when paired with candles, water, mirrors and flowers. Use crystals and colored stones for table dé-cor that stands out. You can make crystal and gemstone centerpieces to save on the cost of your wedding.

1. Gemstone-Filled Vase

   • A cylinder vase filled with acrylic jewels or gemstones, river rocks and water creates a simple and elegant centerpiece for your wedding reception. Choose gemstones to coordinate with your wedding colors. Top the cylinders with a candle to give the room a romantic appearance. You can also add flowers to the vase filled with water and gemstones. Use silk petals in the water or you can add long-stemmed flowers in a tall cylinder vase.

   Gemstones and Candles

   • Varying size candles set on mirrors creates the illusion of multiple candles on the table. Scatter gemstones around the candles to catch the flicker of light from the candle flames. Use crystal gemstones for an intense sparkle. You can also use colored gemstones to coordinate with your wedding colors. Fix the gemstones directly into the sides of the candles for additional color.

   Floral Arrangements with Gemstones

   • Use gemstones and crystals to decorate a vase filled with flowers for the center of your wedding tables. Dried flowers in a country basket are a casual but beautiful centerpiece for a less formal wedding reception. Attach the gemstones to the sides of the basket to add a little sparkle to your tables. Rhinestone-encrusted fabric or ribbon can create sparkly bows for the baskets.

   Swarovski Crystal Bouquets

   • Many people use the bouquets from the wedding to decorate the tables at the reception. A Swarovski bouquet is an amazing choice for the centerpieces at your wedding. Use the bouquets in your wedding ceremony and reception to save on the costs. You can place the bouquets in small vases for the centers of the tables and purchase additional bouquets for extra tables.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, filled with, vase filled, vase filled with, wedding reception

How to have a pagan wedding

have a pagan wedding

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 ..."

Do you want to get married but avoid the church? Do you consider yourself spiritual but not religious? Are you pagan, or marrying someone from a different religious tradition than your own? These days there are many reasons to design a new kind of wedding ceremony, one which expresses the love of the couple in a unique way.

Things You'll Need

• marriage license
• interesting readings
• friends and family
• party supplies

Instructions

1. • 1

     First you will probably want to work out the legal aspects of your marriage. In a traditional religious wedding this is generally handled by the clergy person. For a pagan wedding, you may need to deal with it yourself. Contact your local courthouse to apply for your marriage license and find out who is allowed to perform marriages in your area. Your options may include using an open minded traditional celebrant, marrying yourselves, having a friend legally ordained online or going to a justice of the peace for a quick legal marriage before or after your wedding ceremony.

   • 2

     Write your vows. Designing your own ceremony gives you a unique opportunity to express your love on your own terms, so be creative. If you have trouble with this step, try not to get stressed about it--the most important thing is just to tell your partner how you feel, and to make any promises that you think are important.

   • 3

     Flesh out your ceremony. You could look to a variety of traditions for ideas, but some common elements include inspirational readings, prayers or meditation, music and of course kissing! Keep it simple and not too long, so that guests can stay focused.

   • 4

     Find a location. Many people who want pagan weddings prefer outdoor settings, but you should have plenty of options. One thing you might want to consider is picking a place where you can have the ceremony and the reception together, an option that is often not practical for church weddings.

   • 5

     After your wedding, make sure to follow up on the legal aspects of your marriage. Don't forget to sign and mail in the certificate that comes with your license, and consider calling the court house a few weeks later to make sure that the marriage has been legally registered. Congratulations!

Tips &- Warnings

• If you are having a wedding ceremony without a legal marriage, consider whether you would like to incorporate any of the legal aspects generally associated with marriage, such as property rights, and talk to a lawyer about making these arrangements.

• A common concern about pagan weddings is negative reactions from family members. If you are likely to deal with this, consider toning down the religious aspects completely and having a more or less secular ceremony. On the other hand, it is your wedding. If you feel strongly about certain aspects of the ceremony you may have to choose between the financial support of your family and the type of service you prefer.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: legal aspects, pagan wedding, wedding ceremony, your marriage, your wedding

Ideas for a 40th birthday in the detroit area

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

Turning 40 is not just a cause for celebration- it's a reason to spend the day doing something you enjoy. Detroit, the largest city in Michigan, offers a large variety of venues and activities for men and women to celebrate a milestone birthday. Whether you want to sit back and enjoy a concert, watch your favorite sport, or join in activities, a venue to celebrate your 40th birthday can be found in the Detroit area.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Ideas for Anglers and Boaters

   • Detroit lies on the Detroit River, making it a great place to celebrate for 40-year-olds who enjoy fishing or boating. Fish for walleye, perch, bass, steelhead, muskies, trout, salmon or pan fish. If you don't have a boat, you can rent one, fish from shore, or book with one of the companies that provide seasonal charter-fishing services. Fishing piers are available at Belle Isle Park and at the Peter Stroh Memorial in William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor. After fishing, get dressed up and book a dinner cruise on the Detroit Princess or rent the boat for a private party.

   Ideas for Sports Fans

   • Take your 40-year-old sports lover to a professional game to celebrate their birthday. Detroit has sports venues that are active during all seasons. Those who enjoy baseball can watch the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park, a combination baseball museum, ball park and theme park. Football fans can celebrate their 40th at Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions. The Palace of Auburn Hills houses the National Basketball Association's Detroit Pistons. Hockey fans with Red Wing Fever can visit the Joe Louis Arena.

   Ideas for Active Fun

   • Many 40-year-olds are very active and would prefer to play rather than watch on their birthdays. Many Detroit establishments offer places designed for them. Joe Dumars' Fieldhouse has basketball courts, roller hockey and indoor or outdoor volleyball and the attached Bayou Adventure arcade has air hockey, skee-ball and a basketball shoot-out game. Bayou Adventure's interactive entertainment facility provides a bungee trampoline, 26-foot climbing wall, ropes course, slot-car raceway, laser tag, miniature golf course and bowling on mini-lanes. A birthday party can be booked and catered at the Majestic, which houses America's oldest active bowling center. The Magic Stick on the second floor hosts live bands and provides billiard tables and a dance floor.

   Ideas for Music Lovers

   • Buy the best tickets available and take your 40-year-old to a concert featuring a favorite musician. Detroit has venues for all kinds of music. The Palace of Auburn Hills has a variety of international acts throughout the year. DTE Energy Music Theatre, formerly known as Pine Knob, is an outdoor venue featuring famous acts during warm weather months from the end of May through early September.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: 40th birthday, 40th birthday detroit, Auburn Hills, Bayou Adventure, birthday detroit, birthday detroit area

Wildlife conservation society jobs

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

The Wildlife Conservation Society, which has headquarters at the Bronx Zoo in New York City, seeks candidates for four basic job types: full time, seasonal, field work and internships/volunteers. Jobs may be based at the N.Y. headquarters or at one of the organization's 64 locations worldwide. Herman D. Smith, vice president of human resources, says he has hundreds of positions to fill for the summer of 2011. He also is looking for expert fundraisers.

1. Full-Time Employees

   • Full-time employees of the Wildlife Conservation Society hold positions in such areas as animal care, education, curatorial science, information technology and human resources. The organization's mission is to save wildlife and wild places through education, global conservation, science and management of the planet's largest system of urban wildlife parks.

     Employees are housed at the Center for Global Conservation on the C.V. Starr Campus at the Bronx Zoo. There are more than 100 WCS researchers, conservationists and support staff at this location. Employment benefits include health insurance, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, pension plan, 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, and tuition reimbursement.

   Seasonal Employees

   • Each year from March through October, WCS hires hundreds of seasonal employees to assist and inform guests at the New York City zoos and aquariums. WCS seeks seasonal employees who can work full- or part-time schedules, and are dependable, ready to help customers, able to work weekends, holidays and in a variety of outdoor weather conditions, and who possess a positive attitude.

     Positions in this category include park operations, sales, animal care, food service and maintenance of the grounds. As of 2011, pay begins at $7.25 and varies according to the position available. WCS also provides incentives and promotional opportunities for seasonal employees.

   Field Employees

   • WCS has operations in more than 64 countries and several field sites. The organization's global conservation program spans North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia and marine areas. Field employees may be stationed at any one of the international locations or the N.Y. headquarters. Field positions include jobs in financial administration, program management, conservation diplomacy and field research. Many of these positions require technical and/or scientific expertise. Field employees are given a diverse benefits package that is based on the nature of their position and field location.

   Interns & Volunteers

   • If you're passionate about saving wildlife or conservation programs, a job as an intern or volunteer with WCS may be the perfect fit for you. Volunteers and interns in New York City work in one of the four zoos or the aquarium. Internships and volunteer work are provided in such areas as administration, public affairs, animal care, education and guest services. Internship positions may be paid or unpaid.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: animal care, York City, animal care education, care education, conservation society

How to write a jewish wedding program

write a jewish wedding program

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

Many couples choose to give out a program at their wedding that explains the Jewish customs and laws it will follow. This is particularly important if many guests are not practicing Jews, or if the wedding is atypically traditional. The following are some tips for creating this program.

Things You'll Need

• Resources about Jewish Weddings
• Printing materials

Instructions

1. Writing a Jewish Wedding Program

   • 1

     Find information about the elements of a Jewish wedding. Your rabbi may be able to provide materials for you or you can use a pre-written document (see resources below). Make sure you ascribe credit to the authors and be mindful of copyright issues (Aish, for one, encourages visitors to copy its materials).

   • 2

     Be personal, but not too personal. The program is also a good place to include acknowledgments, such as thanks to parents for planning and paying for the wedding, recognition of those who have passed away, etc. It is not a good place for campy "How we met" stories, inside jokes shared by your wedding party, etc. Save casual comments for your website and other forums.

   • 3

     If you are using a pre-written program, consider modifying it so it's appropriate to your ceremony and your audience. If you have chosen not to include a tish or bedeken, for example, it may be confusing if you include explanations of these customs in your program, or you may have to change the language of a section that takes certain prior-knowledge for granted. You might also want to explain the significance of any personal touches (for example, that the bride is wearing her grandmother's veil).

   • 4

     Proofread. If you have made any changes to your program or written it yourself, make sure at least three thoughtful people have read it over for errors. The last thing you want is to print and distribute a document that contains typos and spelling mistakes.

   • 5

     Make it attractive. Like other written elements of your wedding, your program should look professional and attractive. Depending on your aesthetic sensibility and budget, you may consider using special paper, including your monogram or other elements from your ketubah or invitations, or a number of other options.

Tips &- Warnings

• Anita Diamant's The New Jewish Wedding (see below) is an excellent resource.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your program, good place, jewish wedding, Jewish Wedding, wedding program, write jewish, write jewish wedding

Beliefs of the modern episcopal church

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."

Also known as Anglican, the Episcopalian church began as the Church of England under King Henry VIII. The modern Episcopal church is now a blending of the Protestant and Catholic religions. Although their beliefs are primarily Protestant, Episcopalians perform Catholic rituals, such as confession- they use incense to honor church members and the altar- and their clergymen are elaborately dressed.

1. Beliefs About God

   • Members strongly believe that everything in the world come from God. This includes people, things, animals, talents and financial resources. These are considered gifts, and it is up to men to use the gifts appropriately and responsibly. Also, because people were created in God's image, it is important to treat them with love and respect. Baptism is an important ritual for the Episcopalians, as it makes the person worthy of inheriting God's kingdom.

   Beliefs About Jesus

   • Episcopalians believe that God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, sent His son Jesus to live in the world and die for the sins of man. Members believe that you can experience God's love only through Jesus. Communion, the drinking of wine and eating of bread symbolizing Jesus Christ's blood and body, is essential. Through Communion, sins are forgiven, and the bond between the person and Jesus is strengthened.

   Beliefs About the Bible

   • Episcopalians believe that the Old Testament and the New Testament are the word of God. Passages from the Bible are read during Sunday services. The Episcopals use "The Book of Common Prayer" in which most of the material is taken from the Bible. The book contains prayers and explains how worship services are conducted.

   Beliefs of Modern Conflicts

   • The Episcopalian Church is one of few Christian organizations to allow homosexuals to be ordained as priests. Liberal Episcopalians view homosexuality as natural and homophobia as a sin. Conservative members disagree strongly and view homosexuality as a sin.

     Members believe that abortion should not be used except in severe circumstances, such as to safeguard the health of the mother.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: believe that, Beliefs About, Beliefs modern, Beliefs modern episcopal, episcopal church, Episcopalians believe, Episcopalians believe that

Diy rsvp cards for wedding

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.' ..."

RSVP cards tell couples how many guests will attend their wedding. Send an RSVP card with wedding invitations, and guests will return the card stating they will or will not attend the wedding. RSVP cards also help couples provide caterers with a final count for wedding receptions. Consider keeping a spreadsheet to document returned RSVP cards. Contact guests who don't respond by the stated deadline to finalize your wedding count.

1. Select Paper

   • Choose paper for your RSVP wedding cards. An invitation kit provides users with RSVP cards and envelopes to match their wedding invitations. Visit printing stores and craft stores to find a wide variety of paper options. Select a color that matches your wedding theme. White or cream are traditional colors for invitations and RSVP cards. Pick a weighted paper such as card stock so the RSVP card is sturdy. Consider vellum with a card stock backing. It's possible to print on vellum, but the key is letting the ink dry completely before proceeding with assembly. Think about using postcards as your RSVP card. These are pre-cut to size and require less postage.

   Wording and Printing

   • Look at examples of RSVP cards for samples of wording and designs. Check bridal books, magazines and the Internet for examples. RSVP cards should be simple with the basic information such as guests name, will or will not attend and a response date. Some couples provide menu options for guests. After the wording is selected, open a Word document and go to file, page setup, paper and enter the dimensions for your RSVP card. Click OK to save the size. Type the selected wording onto the document and select an easy to read font. Double-check for spelling mistakes and print a copy to check the margins and page setup. Correct any mistakes and print the RSVP cards.

   Before Mailing

   • Prepare your RSVP cards for mailing. Address the return RSVP card envelope to your address or the parents in charge of keeping track of the guest list. Add a stamp to the envelope. This makes it convenient for guests, and there is no confusion over where to send the RSVP card. Assign each guest a number on the back of their RSVP card in light pencil. Keep a master list of the numbers. This will help you if guests forget to include their names on the RSVP cards.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: RSVP cards, RSVP card, your RSVP, will attend, card stock

German restaurants near andover, new jersey

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 ..."

Visitors to Andover, New Jersey have several dining options for authentic German cuisine. According to City Data, nearly 20 percent Andover's population is of German heritage. The German culture is well represented with several nearby German restaurants that offer traditional favorites, such as spaetzles with gravy and Black Forest Cake.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Black Forest Inn

   • Located just five miles outside of Andover's city limits is the village of Stanhope, New Jersey. Stanhope is the home of The Black Forest Inn, a well established dining establishment that specializes in German continental cuisine. The Black Forest Inn offers lunch and dinner menus that feature such German favorites as Veal Schnitzelette Gruyere, Wiener Schnitzel and desserts such as Apple Strudel and decadent Black Forest Cake. The Black Forest Inn also offers a broad beer selection and a full list of European and French wines. As of May 2010, most entrees were priced under $20.

     The Black Forest Inn
     

     249 U.S. Hwy. 206
     

     Stanhope, NJ 07874
     

     973-347-3344
     

     blackforestinn.com

   Germania Park

   • Established in 1895, Germania Park is a unique establishment that celebrates the German culture and heritage of the greater Andover area. Located just 13 miles outside of Andover in the village of Dover, Germania Park has a long-standing tradition of promoting German food, song and history within the community. Germania Park features authentic German cuisine and holds a community dance twice monthly that includes traditional German music and dancing. The menu offered at Germania Park includes German favorites such as spaetzles and gravy and rich desserts such as strudel. Germania Park also offers guests access to a full service bar. Dinner is served nightly from 6:30.

     Germania Park
     

     Conger Street
     

     Dover, NJ 07802
     

     973-328-9693
     

     germaniapark.com

   The Top Notch

   • Located 30 miles from Andover's city limits is the Top Notch Restaurant in the village of Montclair. The Top Notch features various German favorites, including poultry dishes such as gansebraten and beef delights such as sauerbraten. The Top Notch also offers treats for the sweet tooth, including butterkuchen (butter cake) and gugelhupf (a German Bunt cake).

     Top Notch Restaurant‎-
     

     700 Bloomfield Ave.
     

     Montclair, NJ 07042
     

     973- 746-5699‎-

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Black Forest, Germania Park, also offers, German favorites, German restaurants, Andover city

Wedding picture checklist

It's interesting:
"I'd like to talk about Paul's greatest achievement, which happened today, and that was keeping his suit jacket on throughout the ceremony and resisting what must have been an intense desire to turn up in shorts today. But despite the heat and discomfort, it’s been well worth the effort, for amongst other things, the wet patch down the length of his left leg can be passed off as sweat."

Wedding photographers often charge by the hour or limit the number of pictures that are included in their standard packages. With a good plan, even couples on a budget can ensure all their most important memories are captured by their photographer.

Creating a checklist of pictures for the photographer and wedding planner are the first step to achieving perfect wedding pictures. Your photographer can coordinate a time frame to ensure the photographs you want are captured. Try to resist the urge to choreograph each and every moment. Create a comprehensive wedding album with a good mixture of planned and candid photographs.

1. Family Photos

   • Weddings provide a great opportunity to get group pictures of your whole combined family. Shots you do not want your photographer to miss include arrangements of both sides of your family, together and separate, and should include generational groupings, gender groupings, shots of each of you with both sides of the family, and several shots of the wedding party.

   Ceremony Shots

   • For the ceremony, request individual shots of each bridal party pairing coming down the aisle, as well as photographs of any members waiting at the ceremony location. Request photographs of any special observances or readings that are part of the ceremony. Don't forget a photograph of the kiss.

   Reception Photo Ops

   • During the reception, request photographs of the first dance, dances with fathers, mothers or siblings, important toasts, the cake being cut, the bouquet and garter being tossed, and during the final exit. You may also want to request photographs of each table, either while everyone is seated or as you visit each group. This is a great chance to snag photographs with people not included in formal family pictures.

   Backdrop

   • Weddings seem to go by in a flash, especially for the happy couple. Request photographs of the dé-cor, centerpieces, guest book, cake, food and special decorations. These photographs will be a great way to remember the big day, and enjoy any details you were too busy to appreciate at the wedding.

   Pre-Wedding Pictures

   • The pre-wedding period is ideal for getting candid photographs of the bride and groom getting ready and spending time with their closest friends. Consider this the time to get candid photographs and close-up pictures of the flowers and accessories. Photographers may coordinate to be on location at the venue or bridal suite early to take these pictures.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: candid photographs, both sides, picture checklist, shots each, Wedding picture, Wedding picture checklist

How to choose readings for your wedding ceremony

choose readings for your wedding ceremony

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 ..."

You should choose readings for your wedding ceremony no later than four months from the ceremony. Readings lend a traditional as well as a personal touch to the ceremony, letting you use someone else's words or your own to communicate the deep, symbolic sentiments of your union. Choose readings for your wedding ceremony with care.

Things You'll Need

• Book of common prayer
• Bible (or other religious text)
• Accurate source for other texts
• Readings

Instructions

1. • 1

     Consider your values. There are certain readings that are conventional according to religions or family tradition. But you may also want to consider your own personal experience and feelings leading up to your wedding ceremony.

   • 2

     Browse popular selections. Check out some of the selections from the resources section for some very wedding appropriate readings. Reading these can give you ideas for your own original touches as well.

   • 3

     Consult with your officiate. Some priests or reverends have a selection of readings that they prefer you would pick from. Others are more flexible, but run your choices by them anyway.

   • 4

     Analyze your text. Make sure you understand the layers of meaning in your reading. Ask a librarian or an academic for help or suggestions.

   • 5

     Finalize your choice and choose a reader. Once you are confident about your selection, choose someone to read and have them practice in the upcoming months.

Tips &- Warnings

• Choose a significant text to read from. If you are Christian, the Bible- Jewish, the Torah- Muslim, the Quran.

• Rules on readings and other rites are more flexible with civil ceremonies.

• Coordinate your vows with the readings. If the readings call for one partner to uphold a certain value, the vows should answer to that and affirm it.

• Ask your parents what they read at their wedding. It might be nice to follow in their footsteps.

• If you decide to choose something unique or self-crafted, be sure it is appropriate. Read it to some friend's or family beforehand to make sure it's proper.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding ceremony, wedding ceremony, your wedding, readings your, readings your wedding, choose readings

Diy wedding bell favors

It's interesting:
"It is said that a Fall wedding is a very special one, because at a time when so much of the life around us is changing colors and dying, we gather together for a celebration of life and a brand new beginning. Indeed, today we are very privileged to welcome a new married couple into the world. I hope that every time you celebrate your anniversary, you will always think back to this wonderful Autumn day and remember all the love and warmth that you feel in this room right now."

Rather than purchasing already-assembled wedding bell favors, you can make your own. Assembling favors on your own will help keep wedding expenses from exceeding your budget and it will make the favors even more meaningful to guests. DIY wedding bell favors are easy to put together, and you each one only takes a few minutes to create, making them an ideal project for brides who need to budget their time as well as their money.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer
• Card stock
• Paper cutter
• Hole punch
• Scissors
• Metallic cord
• 2-inch-tall liberty bells
• 1 1/2-inch wide satin ribbon

Instructions

1. • 1

     Design personalized hang tags with your names and wedding date. You can use graphic design software to create your hang tags, but you don't need it- tags are easy to create in word processing programs such as Microsoft Word. Decide what size you want the tags to be and insert a table with cells of that size. Type the text into the first cell, positioning it exactly where you want it to appear on the tags, and then copy and paste the content into the rest of the table's cells. You can use just text or you can add a small image to the design. Make sure you keep the cell borders visible, as they will serve as a cutting guide.

   • 2

     Print the tags onto sheets of card stock and cut them out with a paper cutter. Make your cuts just inside the border lines. When you've finished cutting out the tags, use a hole punch to make a hole in each tag's upper left-hand corner.

   • 3

     Cut a six-inch long piece of metallic cord, thread it through a hang tag and the loop at the top of a liberty bell (a church bell-shaped craft bell) and tie the ends of the cord together to secure the hang tag to the bell. Repeat until you've attached tags to every bell.

   • 4

     Cut an eight-inch long piece of satin ribbon in a color that corresponds with your wedding theme and thread it through the bell's loop. Tie the ribbon into a bow and trim the ends so they don't extend past the bow loops.

   • 5

     Apply a bead of liquid seam sealant (such as fray check or fray block) to the ribbon's raw edges to keep it from fraying.

Tips &- Warnings

• Have guests ring their wedding bell favors at the reception when they want the bride and groom to share a kiss.

• You can find liberty bells at most craft and hobby supply stores.

• If you want to make a tag that looks a little more handmade, have a custom rubber stamp made and stamp the design onto pre-cut card stock gift tags. Use metallic inks to give your tag a luxe look.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bell favors, wedding bell, wedding bell favors, card stock, hang tags

Italian restaurants in wilmington, delaware

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 ..."

Drive south from Philadelphia on I-95, and run right into the city of Wilmington, Delaware. This small city has a Little Italy with quality restaurants that give South Philly a run for its money. Spend the day shopping tax-free at outlet stores on Riverfront Wilmington, or stroll along the six block pedestrian concourse of Market Street Mall with its small retail shops and the Grand Opera House.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

1. Cafe Mezzanotte

   • Cafe Mezzanotte invites you to come in for classically prepared authentic Pan-Mediterranean food paired with exceptional service. The owner of this Italian restaurant in Wilmington, Delaware, happens to be the chef. Anticipate a warm and intimate atmosphere ideal for a romantic meal. A large variety of steaks, seafood and chicken share the menu with more than 15 creative pasta dishes. Begin with the stuffed oysters or scallops in a balsamic reduction followed by gnocchi blue cheese, filet mignon on polenta with porcini mushrooms or blackened tuna and risotto. Walk here from Hotel du Pont, the Sheraton Suites or the downtown Courtyard hotel.

     Cafe Mezzanotte

     1007 N. Orange St.

     WIlmington, DE 19801

     302-658-7050

     cafemezzanotte.net

   Luigi Vitrone's Pastabilities Restaurant

   • Located in the Little Italy section of Wilmington, this family-owned restaurant wants you to come in and, "Savor the authentic and uncompromising regional Italian cuisine that chef/proprietor Luigi Vitrone has made famous and affordable to all." Anticipate delicious food in an intimate, 40 seat, "hole in the wall" dining area. No shortcuts here, everything is made from scratch down to the homemade soup stock. Choose an appetizer for two like the Italian hot antipasto, followed by a bowl of daily homemade soup. For your second course try a signature selection such as shrimp Evelina or grandpa's homemade Italian sausage. St. Francis Hospital and Clayton Park are within walking distance.

     Luigi Vitrone's Pastabilities Restaurant

     415 N. Lincoln St.

     Wilmington, DE 19805

     302-656-9822

     ljv-pastabilities.com

   Madeline's Italian Restaurant

   • Madeline's, a third generation Italian restaurant, sits in its original location opened by Madeline Sparco. It wants you to know, "The Delaware News Journal has voted Madeline's the #1 Italian Restaurant in Delaware." This short and sweet menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas and feature entrees. A three course meal at Madeline's Italian Restaurant could start with Italian wedding soup and a trip to the salad bar, followed by a crab cake sandwich, lobster ravioli Alfredo or pork chops. Walk here from Father Tucker Memorial Park and Bernie's Original Italian Ice.

     Madeline's Italian Restaurant

     531 N. Dupont St.

     Wilmington, DE 19805

     302-656-4505

     madelinesitalianrestaurant.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Madeline Italian, Madeline Italian Restaurant, Cafe Mezzanotte, Italian Restaurant, Luigi Vitrone, Delaware This

Most popular wedding themes

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

Wedding themes vary according to a couple's imagination and resources. Creating a theme is a way a couple can put their individual creative stamp on the celebration of their love. Themes can relate to favorite movies, holidays, colors, or even a favorite animal or flower. Popular wedding themes are those that represent classic or timeless traditions, or simply those in favor among marrying couples in a particular year.

1. Popular Spring Themes

   • Spring continues to be one of the most popular times to get married. Perhaps it's because spring is a time of birth, renewal, and new growth in nature, when flowers start popping up and everything rings with new life. Spring flowers are a preferred theme for many couples getting married during this season. It's easy to choose costumes for the wedding party in spring floral colors. Centerpieces can be created with this flora, and favors can include seed packets of spring flowers, or flower bulbs. In terms of popular themes, however, Your Wedding Company suggests that one such popular wedding theme for 2011, based on hundreds of North American and European trends, is "garden." Garden is particularly appropriate for a spring wedding, and the most popular colors that fall into the spring categories include turquoise, yellow, coral, and chartreuse. Other theme ideas suggested by multiple wedding sites include birds, trees, and simply the color green.

   Popular Summer Themes

   • Beach and tropical wedding themes continue to be extremely popular for summer weddings. Deep red, purple, and fuchsia are great summer colors that are currently trendy, in addition to the colors appropriate for a spring wedding. Eco-friendly and green weddings, in which all materials, gifts, and activities are environmentally sound, are also on the rise, and Your Wedding Company suggests another 2011 theme of "Tiffany Blue (aqua)" or "Woodland/Rustic" as perfect for the summer months. Other themes include "Dolphin," in which mermaid-style dresses and seashells adorn the wedding party, and "Butterfly," in which butterfly embroidery and decorated cakes are featured.

   Popular Autumn Themes

   • Autumn is the time when nature is adorned in the richest colors. Your Wedding Company suggests the most popular wedding colors in 2011 that have that autumnal feel are coral, deep red, and latte. Harvest is a natural theme for this time of year, as reported by several wedding companies, featuring centerpieces made of gourds and cornucopia, and rich autumn flowers decorating every bouquet. Apples are another exciting theme featuring bright colors. Other creative options include Halloween, in which couple dress in costume and encourage the wedding party and guests to do the same.

   Popular Winter Themes

   • "Winter Wonderland," "Vintage Glamour" and "Sparkling Diamonds" are all popular 2011 trends according to Your Wedding Company that are perfect for the winter wedding. White, turquoise, slate gray, purple, and black are all popular, currently trendy colors that go with those snowy winter months. Decorations might include crystal palace wall decor and ice sculptures adorned with twinkling or glittery bare branches. Other ideas include "Candlelight," "Celestial/Moon & Stars," "Christmas," "Cinderella" and "Victorian," according to the website Today's Weddings.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Your Wedding Company, Wedding Company, wedding themes, Your Wedding, colors that, Company suggests, popular wedding

Mexican catholic wedding traditions

It's interesting:
"I can’t imagine a happier way to start married life than in this wonderful venue with all their family and friends around them. Ok, so I can – but it would have to be an exceptionally big Jacuzzi."

Mexican wedding traditions date back to ancient Aztec times of the 14th and 15th centuries. Many of the Catholic customs were introduced when the Spanish came to Mexico and conquered the Aztec Empire in 1521. Several of these traditions have been passed down through generations of Mexican families for centuries.

1. Marriage Preparation

   • Mexican Catholic couples usually participate in a pre-marriage preparation course, given at their local church, to make sure they are prepared for their married life together. The course is generally completed within a few hours, and consists mostly of talking through issues with your church's priest, such as when they want to have their first child together, the stresses involved with marriage and raising a family, and the role of faith within a marriage. Depending on your church or situation, your priest may require additional counseling before the wedding takes place. The course also attempts to provide the couple with a realistic vision of what married life will be like.

   El Padrino y La Madrina (Godparents)

   • Traditionally, the couple chooses their godparents, who will advise and guide them throughout their engagement, wedding ceremony, and all throughout their lives. It is considered a great honor to be chosen as a "padrino" or "madrina." The padrinos and madrinas are sponsors for the wedding- at the very least, they provide the couple with a Bible and rosary as a way to bless the marriage. They also have a special place near the bride and groom during the ceremony.

     There is also another kind of madrina: "La Madrina de Ramo," a young female child who brings a special bouquet of flowers to be given to the Virgin Mary during the ceremony.

   The Bride's Prayer Before the Ceremony

   • At a traditional Mexican Catholic wedding, the mother of the bride or both her parents say a prayer to bless the bride and her husband-to-be with a prosperous new life together. The bride sometimes takes part in saying the prayer as well. It is the mother's (or parents') way of blessing the wedding and honoring her daughter formally.

   Thirteen Gold Coins

   • One of the most popular Mexican Catholic wedding traditions is the 13 gold coins or arras. In this tradition, the groom presents the bride with 13 gold coins that are blessed by the priest during the ceremony. The coins represent the groom's certitude and indisputable trust. It is also considered a declaration of the groom's possessions. When the bride accepts the grooms' coins, she commits to honor his certitude and trust. Often the coins have been in the family for generations and are passed down at each wedding.

   The Kneeling Pillow and El Lazo (The Lasso)

   • The kneeling pillow is a special pillow for the couple provided by a designated bridesmaid. The couple spends most of the ceremony kneeling on the pillow at a traditional Catholic mass.

     The lasso is a large rosary or white ribbon. It is placed in a figure-eight shape around the bride and grooms' necks or around their wrists during the ceremony. This symbolizes the couples' union and unbreakable bond of their love and trust.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: during ceremony, wedding traditions, married life, Catholic wedding, catholic wedding

Ideas for a baby in a wedding ceremony

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

Having your baby be a part of your wedding ceremony will give you a special memory to share with her for years to come. Coming up with ideas on include your baby in the ceremony can be difficult because babies can be so unpredictable. Wedding Channel, an online resource, suggests that you will need to delegate a caregiver for the baby on your wedding day. This way you will be able to take your time getting ready and not have to worry about diaper changes or feeding times. Also try to find a quiet place at the venue to take the baby if things get to be a little too much for her.

1. Wagon Ride

   • Have an older child wheel the baby down the aisle in a decorated wagon. This can be done at the same time that the flower girl and ring bearer walk down. Decorate the wagon with tulle, fabrics and flowers. If your baby isn't big enough to sit up, be sure to put her in something that is secure so that she will not fall out.

   Include in the Vows

   • Beautiful Videos, a wedding videographer, suggests incorporating your baby into the ceremony. While the couple speaks the vows, allow the baby to be a part of it. Present the baby with a trinket, such as a small piece of jewelry, to formally show that the baby is as much a part of this new union as the couple.

   Sand Ceremony

   • Let your baby help with the sand ceremony. Since a baby cannot hold and pour the sand, designate a special vase just for him. While the mother or father holds the baby, have the wedding officiant announce that the vase represents him as part of the family. Then the mother or father can pour the sand in the vase for the baby. Save a bit of the sand from that day and keep it in an enclosed vase to display in his room, up high on a shelf, as a keepsake for him to treasure for years to come.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your baby, wedding ceremony, baby part, baby wedding, baby wedding ceremony, Ideas baby, Ideas baby wedding