How to make welcome gift baskets

make welcome gift baskets

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

Traveling to an out of town event can be stressful. It is easy to forget small supplies that would make the journey less taxing, especially when traveling with children. As families and networks of friends become geographically more distant, it is increasingly common for wedding guests to travel to ceremonies far away from their homes. As a token of appreciation, the bride and groom often assemble welcome baskets to greet out of town guests.

Things You'll Need

• Baskets
• Cardstock
• Hole punch
• Decorative ribbon
• Tissue paper
• Maps of the area
• Itineraries of events
• Menus from local restaurants
• Snacks
• Bottled Water
• Aspirin
• Coloring books
• Crayons

Instructions

1. • 1

     Select a basket large enough to accommodate all of your gifts. Purchase enough baskets for each out of town guest.

   • 2

     Write a welcome letter to attach to each of your welcome baskets. You can choose to write an individual letter for each guest, or a single, more encompassing note--this will largely depend on how many out of town guests you are receiving, and how much time you have put aside for this project. In your note, thank the visitors for making the long trek to celebrate your nuptials and let them know you are looking forward to seeing them on your big day. Print the letter on sturdy cardstock.

   • 3

     Punch a hole in the top of the letter. Loop a piece of ribbon through the hole, and tie the note to the top of your basket's handle. Tie extra decorative ribbons strips to the basket handle, curling them by pulling them taut while gently scraping them with a pair of opened scissors.

   • 4

     Line the basket with decorative tissue paper, ensuring that you use enough paper to extend over the sides.

   • 5

     Fill the basket with the gifts you have selected for your guests, arranging them attractively. Include a map of the area, which you can print from the Internet or collect from the local courthouse, to help your guests find their way around. Also include an itinerary of events for the weekend (including directions to and from the wedding venue), a collection of menus from local restaurants, enough snacks for everyone staying in the room, bottled water and aspirin. For guests traveling with little ones, include a coloring book and crayons for each child--Mom and Dad will appreciate the gesture. If you have only a few out of town guests, consider adding a small personalized gift to each basket, like a bottle of merlot from a local winery for wine enthusiasts.

   • 6

     Deliver your welcome baskets to the hotel where your guests will be staying, no later than two days before they are due to arrive. This will ensure that the staff has enough time to deliver each basket before any visitors show up.

   • 7

     Call the hotel the day before guests arrive to confirm that the welcome baskets will be waiting in the appropriate rooms.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: from local, welcome baskets, town guests, your guests, your welcome baskets, basket handle

How to attend a traditional jewish wedding

attend a traditional jewish wedding

It's interesting:
"I think you'll all agree that it's been a wonderful wedding so far. ... But I never received a formal invitation to the wedding, so I just hope I haven't eaten a meal ..."

Even outside of solely Orthodox circles, many young Jewish couples choose to have at least moderately traditional weddings, perhaps to make these occasions further ritualized or to demonstrate their commitment to a Jewish lifestyle. As a guest, it is important to understand the fundamental aspects of these events so that you may both fully appreciate them and act appropriately.

Things You'll Need

• Appropriate attire
• Props (if appropriate)

Instructions

1. • 1

     Wear appropriate attire. Depending on the couple's customs and level of observance, modest dress may be required (this particularly applies to women, who at the very least are expected to cover their knees and shoulders). A note about dress may be included on the invitation, or you may be able to ask someone familiar with the bride and groom. If you really don't know what is expected, air on the side of caution, noting that very religious communities expect women's elbows to be covered as well.

   • 2

     Don't automatically assume you are sitting next to your date. In religious communities, men and women sit and pray separately. Again, depending on the bride and groom's level of observance, the ceremony and/or the meal may be segregated by gender. If this is not the case, the bride and groom may still separate before the ceremony for dual customs called the Tish (for men) and the Bedeken (for women) respectively. These gatherings allow the bride and groom to be surrounded by celebratory (usually single-sex) groups before the official ceremony begins.

   • 3

     Ask questions. Both before and during the ceremony, you will likely encounter customs with which you are unfamiliar. While most brides and grooms provide explanations of these for their guests, you may still have questions. Ask them (in a respectful way and at an appropriate time, of course).

   • 4

     Break out the funny hats. According to traditional Jewish custom, the guests at a wedding are supposed to entertain the bride and groom. In some circles, guests even bring props like funny hats to fulfill this obligation. While you probably shouldn't bring your own props unless somebody specifically tells you this would be welcomed, get ready to let out your silly side (and don a hat yourself, should they be available).

   • 5

     Dance your socks off. According to Jewish tradition, it is required to celebrate with the bride and groom. Whether this means dancing to the Hora or to a Beatles cover band (not all traditional Jewish weddings feature solely Jewish music), arrive with the intention to celebrate.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, attend traditional, attend traditional jewish, funny hats, jewish wedding

How to print place cards from spreadsheets

print place cards from spreadsheets

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 ..."

Whether you need to assign seats for guests at a wedding, or participants at a business conference, people will appreciate knowing where to sit. Printed place cards will not only help people find their places easily but they also lend an air of professionalism to your event. With a little work, you can print place cards from a spreadsheet, even if you have a long list.

Things You'll Need

• Card stock or paper

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open or create your list of names in your spreadsheet program. For this example, we will use Excel 2007. Make sure each column is labeled- the column name will be used for a mail merge. For example, if your first column contains the names, you might give that column the name "Name" in cell A1. If your second column contains a table number for each person, that column might be labeled "Table_Number" in cell B1.

   • 2

     Save and close your spreadsheet.

   • 3

     Open a new sheet in your word processing program. For this example, we will use Word 2007 but other programs have similar instructions.

   • 4

     Click "Start Mail Merge" under the "Mailings" tab. Select "Labels." Select the brand of place cards from the "Label vendors" drop-down box and its corresponding product number. For example, "Avery US Letter" and product number "5302" select a 4-inch tent card. If there is no appropriate label vendor or if you want to create place cards from scratch, click the "New Label" button. Enter the dimensions of the cards in the "Label Details" popup window. Click "OK" when you are done. You will now see a blank sheet in Word with outlines for your place cards.

   • 5

     Click "Select Recipients" from the "Start Mail Merge" group. Click "Use Existing List." Find the spreadsheet name in your list of documents and click "Open." Your spreadsheet should now be linked to your empty mail merge document.

   • 6

     Insert the merge fields into the first empty place card. Click "Insert Merge Field" from "Write & Insert Fields." Select the fields you want to appear in your card -- for example, "Name" and "Table_Number." Apply any formatting to the fields that you want, such as bold, centering or different fonts. For example, you may want to hit "Enter" a couple of times to get to the center of the card before inserting the "Name" field.

   • 7

     Click "Update Labels" from the "Write & Insert Fields" group to populate all the cards with the fields.

   • 8

     Click "Preview Results" to see what your cards will look like when they are printed. If you are satisfied with the results, you are ready to print.

   • 9

     Load the correct card stock or paper into your printer, according to your printer's instructions. Press "Print."

Tips &- Warnings

• Don't use spaces in the column names in your spreadsheet- instead, use an underscore or create column names without spaces.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: place cards, cards from, place cards from, print place, print place cards, cards from spreadsheets

How to calculate a wedding budget

calculate a wedding budget

It's interesting:
"During my research - and yes, believe it or not, this was researched - I looked into the three key elements of a wedding day: first, the aisle, the longest walk ..."

Planning a wedding can be a lesson in compromise. You don't want to begin your new life overwhelmed by debt, but you do want to mark one of the most important occasions of your life in style. This is where a wedding budget can help. You can decide ahead of time where to splurge and where to save, making intelligent decisions about how and where to spend. It can also prevent hindsight sticker shock when the bills start arriving.

Instructions

1. List and Calculate Your Wedding Expenses

   • 1

     Divide the wedding into broad categories, such as venue, food, bride and bridesmaids, groom and groomsmen, transportation and entertainment.

   • 2

     Brainstorm by creating a mind map. On a large sheet of paper, write "Wedding" in the center, and add expense branches from this word. For instance, one branch will be "ceremony" and another will be "reception." From these branches, create more branches.

   • 3

     Ask married friends to help you create your budget or look it over once you are done. Only those who have gone through the process will be able to spot gaping holes in planning and know the true price of swans carved from ice.

   Use a Template to Create and Calculate Your Wedding Budget

   • 4

     Access an online wedding budget template at TheKnot.com or Elegala.com (see Resources below).

   • 5

     Enter all of the information (number of bridesmaids, total overall budget) into the template to the best of your current knowledge, and the program will calculate a budget for you. If things change, you can always go back and enter new information. The template will recalculate to include the changed expenses.

   • 6

     Keep in mind that the template is just a guideline. You may want to allocate more of your budget for the dress and less for food or vice versa.

Tips &- Warnings

• No matter how meticulously you plan in the beginning, your wedding budget will expand as long-forgotten relatives and overlooked expenses pop out of the woodwork. Aim low in the beginning, and give yourself a little bit of breathing room.

• Using a pre-made online template can save time, keep you organized and bring to mind things you would have overlooked. However, your wedding may incorporate non-traditional details, such as souvenir DVDs of the wedding or a Hawaiian-luau wedding breakfast the day after the celebration. Keep a page of your own add-ons.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding budget, calculate wedding, calculate wedding budget, Calculate Your, Calculate Your Wedding, wedding budget, your budget

How to tell if your coupons are counterfeit

tell if your coupons are counterfeit

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 ..."

Coupons are no longer in the Sunday paper exclusively, but also online, requiring you to print them. Printed coupons have no predetermined appearance or format, making them easier to counterfeit. However, there are some common characteristics of coupons manufacturers usually use as security measures that can help you determine whether your coupon is legitimate.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Determine whether there is a limit to how many times you can print your coupon. A site that allows unlimited printing may not be offering a legitimate manufacturers coupon.

   • 2

     Check for a barcode, and see if the coupon is available on the manufacturers website.

   • 3

     Inspect the expiration date. It should expire within the next six months with a background covered in dots.

   • 4

     Look for serial numbers and bar codes -- an absence of both characteristics raises the likelihood that it's counterfeit.

   • 5

     Identify any fuzzy or misspelled words, especially in important parts, such as the limitations and liabilities fine print or the product description.

Tips &- Warnings

• The coupons mailers that arrive in your Sunday paper are always legitimate coupons.

• Visit and print coupons from reputable online sites. Fabulesslyfrugal.com has a list of recommended coupon printing sites least likely to disseminate counterfeits.

• Avoid coupons that state the item is free. Manufacturers rarely release coupons for free merchandise. It is possible to find a "buy one, get one free" coupon, but a coupon for a free product is rarely legitimate.

• Coupons should also never arrive via a .pdf file or be emailed to you. Coupon manufacturers release the coupons to selected internet sites that offer restricted printing.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: coupons counterfeit, release coupons, Sunday paper, tell your, tell your coupons, your coupon, your coupons

Lds wedding reception ideas

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 ..."

Latter-Day Saint (LDS) receptions can range in formality and location just like weddings for other faiths. Receptions can be held at outdoor venues such as a beach or park, at a formal hall or ballroom or at the temple in which you are planning to get married. The reception need not be extravagant, but it can be if you have the funds to make it so.

1. Formal Receptions

   • A formal LDS reception can include anything from live music to catered four-course meals. You can hold a formal reception at any location you deem necessary, but off church grounds may make non-LDS guests feel more comfortable, especially if you are having a temple marriage in which non-LDS members cannot attend. A ballroom or a public venue such as a library is a beautiful area to hold a reception and will make the bride, groom and guests feel comfortable and at ease. With any formal event the invitation should request formal (but modest) attire to keep in line with LDS traditions.

   Informal Receptions

   • LDS receptions do not have to be formal and can be held at outdoor venues. Outdoor venues can be particularly useful for large LDS weddings. An open venue also offers a great space for the long receiving line that is common for a Mormon reception. Consider a park, beach or pavilion that is close to the temple or chapel. The traditional cake and refreshments can be easily transported. However, if you are hoping for a catered affair consider going buffet or bringing the reception indoors. Most will not expect more than snacks and refreshments at an informal event.

   Afternoon Receptions

   • An afternoon reception can be held right after the wedding ceremony and many LDS temples offer reception areas within the building. Take advantage of the temple you are using for the ceremony and hold the reception there as well, immediately following. A DJ or pre-recorded music can be used for the event and buffet style dining works well for an afternoon reception. Business casual or modest casual dress would be a perfectly acceptable for an afternoon reception.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: afternoon reception, formal reception, guests feel, held outdoor, held outdoor venues, hold reception, outdoor venues

Bride or groom checklist for wedding

It's interesting:
"A wedding is a time for joy and fun, with friends and family gathered to see the happy couple off as they start their new life. But it is a time, too, when our ..."

Now that the excitement of your engagement has subsided, it's time to start planning the wedding. Don't get overwhelmed, though- organization is key. Follow these checklists to ensure that all aspects of your dream day have been addressed.

1. Six Months or More Before the Wedding

   • Establish your budget. Before you can choose anything for your wedding, you must first decide how much money you will allot. At this time, you should also start to decide who will pay for what.

     Choose your wedding party. Choose bridesmaids and groomsmen, as well as your maid or matron of honor and best man.

     Send engagement announcements to your local newspaper and newspapers from your hometowns, if applicable. At this time you should also choose your invitations.

     Meet with your clergy to discuss the ceremony.

     Order the bridal gown, groom's tuxedo, bridesmaids' dresses and groomsmen's tuxedos. Schedule the fittings.

     Shop around for locations. Look for locations that suit your style and number of guests for the ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner.

     Interview essential participants, such as the caterer, baker, photographer, florists, limo service and band or DJ.

   Three to Six Months Before the Wedding

   • Compile addresses for friends and family members on your guest list. Start an Excel spreadsheet and include a "Gift" column so you can thank guests specifically if they give you a gift. It is also a good idea to start writing thank-you notes as gifts arrive, so that when you return from your honeymoon, you'll just drop them in the mail.

     Attend your first dress fittings.

     Finalize the location for the ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner. At this time, you should also finalize the music selection for both the wedding and the reception.

     Give final approval for the transportation arrangements, as well as the menu for the rehearsal dinner.

     Choose wedding rings.

     Book your honeymoon plans. Ensure your passports are up to date, if applicable.

     Begin selecting your flower arrangements.

   Two to Three Months Before the Wedding

   • Finalize your guest list and mail invitations.

     Reserve hotel rooms on the same floor or floors for guests.

     Finalize appointments with your hair dresser, makeup artist and nail technician. Also make appointments for your bridesmaids and maid of honor.

   Three to Eight Weeks Before the Wedding

   • Choose a guest book and ask a friend to be in charge of it.

     Formally invite your wedding party to the rehearsal dinner. Choose and order wedding-party gifts.

     Attend your final fittings.

     Plan your bridesmaids' party. Confirm the location.

     Acquire formal name-change paperwork for your driver's license, Social Security card and insurance information.

     Send your local and hometown newspaper your wedding announcements.

     Confirm finalized plans with everyone, including all locations, every professional and your honeymoon travel agent.

     Pick up your wedding rings.

   One Week Before the Wedding

   • Call guests who have yet to RSVP. Get a firm response from everyone and plan seating arrangements for your reception. Prepare the place cards as well. Review the ceremony seating with the best man.

     Plan your speech if you intend to make one at the rehearsal dinner or the ceremony.

     Locate the ring pillow, cake knife, toasting glasses, guest favors and whatever you chose for guests to throw following the wedding ceremony.

     Pack your honeymoon suitcases.

   The Day Before the Wedding

   • Pick up all rented outfits.

     Attend the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner.

     Rest up for your big day.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Before Wedding, rehearsal dinner, your wedding, your honeymoon, should also

Wedding getaways in branson, mo

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

Located in the scenic Ozark Mountains, Branson Missouri has plenty of wedding getaway options. Whether the bride and groom are looking to have an intimate wedding ceremony on their own, or want family and friends to join them at a getaway from home celebration, the choices are limited only by their imaginations and available budget. Getaway packages often include the ceremony, a photographer and sometimes even champagne and a cake, as well as honeymoon accommodations.

1. Preparation

   • To ensure that the wedding ceremony can be performed at the time and venue of choice in Branson, it is important that the couple first secures the marriage license. Both parties must visit either Taney County Courthouse or Stone County Courthouse and show current photographic identification such as a driver's license or passport. The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and may be used anywhere within the state of Missouri, including Branson. It must be presented to the wedding officiant, before he can conduct the ceremony. The cost as of January, 2011, is $51.

     State regulations do not allow blood relatives, down to and including first cousins, to be married. To marry without parental consent, both parties must be at least 18 years old. In-person parental consent is required for a marriage license to be issued to parties aged 15 to 17.

   Venues

   • Plenty of venues are available in Branson for your ceremony. There are churches and chapels catering to most religious denominations, as well as hotels and attractions that will host weddings:

     Silver Dollar City is a pioneer-themed amusement park, which offers ceremonies in its Wilderness Chapel and reception facilities and catering services to accommodate up to 55 guests. As at 2011, the cost for a ceremony for the bride and groom only is $400. A ceremony and buffet meal for 55 guests costs $2,200.

     Titanic Branson is a museum attraction shaped like the historic Titanic and built to half-scale of the actual steamship. Wedding ceremonies, conducted by the ship's captain, are held at the waterfall at the bow or on the sumptuous Grand Staircase. Ceremonies and receptions for up to 400 guests can be accommodated.

     Those seeking a more intimate venue for up to 12 guests may prefer their ceremony at the Log Chapel of the Ozarks. The simple cedar log chapel is available for Christian ceremonies for as little as $200, as of 2011.

   Honeymoons

   • From the AAA Four-Diamond Chateau on the Lake Resort and Spa to golf resorts, smaller hotels, houseboats, cabins and bed and breakfast inns, Branson has accommodations to suit honeymooners' budgets large and small. Contact the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau for accommodation listings.

     Chateau on the Lake offers a Romantic Rendezvous one-night getaway, including champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries served in a spacious lakefront, king-size room with sitting area.

     Committed to protecting the environment, Big Cedar Lodge offers two-night Romance Getaways and a Honeymoon Package that includes a horse-drawn carriage ride around the grounds.

     The Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing offers a Romance Package including a room-upgrade, red roses, early check-in and an in-room breakfast.

   Shows

   • There are plenty of exciting shows in Branson- take advantage of your getaway to visit some of them.

     Presley's Country Jubilee is a family country and gospel music and comedy show, which has its roots in performances in the caverns of the Ozarks back in the 1800s.

     The Acrobats of China at the New Shanghai Circus perform in their purpose-built New Shanghai Theatre, complete with waterfalls and Chinese decoration.

     George Harrison's sister has produced what is billed as "the ultimate Beatles experience" in Liverpool Legends, a show featuring the band's work and music from their individual solo careers.

     Branson is synonymous with the legendary Andy Williams who performs at his own Moon River Theater. Guests for his 2011 season include Ann Margret and Glenn Campbell.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: marriage license, bride groom, Chateau Lake, County Courthouse, getaways branson, parental consent

How to paper piece log cabins

paper piece log cabins

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."

Teaching early American history can sometimes be dry and uninteresting. Luckily, you can make learning history more enjoyable by supplementing your curriculum with an educational hands-on craft, such as making a rolled-paper log cabin. Even little children can successfully create a cabin. Everything required to make a rolled paper log cabin can be purchased at an office-supply or craft store.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard, 12 inches by 12 inches
• Brown construction paper cut into 22 pieces, 3 inches by 2 inches
• Tape
• Scissors
• Craft glue

Instructions

1. • 1

     Tape the papers after you've rolled them into "logs."

     Roll a 3-inch-by-2-inch piece of construction paper lengthwise, and tape the side to hold it in place. Repeat this process until you have 20 rolls of construction paper. Place one of the rolls about in the middle of the 12-by-12 piece of cardboard, and glue it into place with craft glue. Place another roll so that the end of it is flush with the inside of the first roll, and glue it onto place. Repeat this process until you have created a square frame on the cardboard base.

   • 2

     Stack the rolls.

     Place a construction paper roll on one of the rolls on the frame and glue it down. Continue around the frame, adding the rolled pieces until your next row is complete. Repeat this entire process until you have glued down a total of 20 rolled paper logs, and build up all four walls of the paper piece log cabin.

   • 3

     Two flat pieces of brown paper form the roof.

     Squeeze a line of glue along one side of another piece of construction paper. Place the last piece of construction paper on top of it, and allow the glue to dry completely. Opened out, these two pieces will form the cabin's roof. Squeeze a line of glue along the bottom edge of each piece of paper, and place the edges on two opposing walls of your cabin. Use your fingers to press and hold the paper in place until the glue is dry enough to hold them there independently. Your paper piece log home is now complete.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: construction paper, paper piece, piece construction, piece construction paper, process until

Correct way to wear wedding bands

It's interesting:
"Even world class comics know what it's like to die on stage, and a wedding ... Nobody wants the soundtrack of their wedding night to be a chorus of loud groans."

Although some nervous brides have offered the wrong hand and some nervous grooms have placed their bride's wedding band on the wrong finger during their wedding ceremony, most people know that the wedding ring is worn on the "ring" finger--the finger next to the pinkie, on the left hand. Tradition dictates that the wedding bands be worn a certain way- however, the correct way is the arrangement the bride chooses for herself.

1. Traditional

   • Slipping the wedding band on first and the engagement ring atop the wedding band is the traditional way to wear your wedding ring set. Wearing your marriage band "closest to your heart" and "protected" by your engagement ring is a common reason given for this arrangement. In addition, during the marriage vows, the groom usually places the wedding band on the empty ring finger, so naturally the engagement ring is placed on last. Most ring sets from jewelers are designed to be worn in this fashion.

   Comfortable

   • Wear your wedding bands in the way you feel most comfortable with if you do not like the "traditional" way. Place your marriage band atop your engagement ring if that better suits your ring set- this arrangement can represent your journey from engagement to marriage. Alternatively, you do not have to wear your engagement ring on your left hand or at all. You may choose to wear only your wedding band for a simpler look or because your engagement ring and wedding band do not go together. Some brides only wear their engagement ring for special or formal occasions, other brides wear their engagement ring on their right hand and some brides store their engagement ring in a jewelry box for safe keeping.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: engagement ring, wedding band, wedding bands, your engagement, your engagement ring

How to get a copy of a marriage certificate in wyoming

get a copy of a marriage certificate in wyoming

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."

In the state of Wyoming, only the husband or wife, or a legal representative of either, can obtain a copy of a marriage certificate. Marriage certificates are not considered public records and are not available to the general public. If you request a certificate that you do not have a legal right to receive, you will not receive the record. You will not receive a refund for the payment you sent for the marriage certificate, however.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Download an application from the Wyoming Department of Health website (see link in the References section).

   • 2

     Complete the application with the full name of husband and wife, including the wife's maiden name, the date on which they married, the city or county in which they married and the address to which you would like the marriage certificate mailed.

   • 3

     Make a copy of your driver's license, state-issued identification card, passport or other official form of identification. Enlarge to copy to make sure the ID is easy to read.

   • 4

     Make out a check or money order to the Wyoming Department of Health for $13 (the fee as of March 2011- check the Wyoming Department of Health of health website to make sure fees have not increased before sending your payment).

   • 5

     Mail your completed application, copy of your identification and payment to: Vital Statistics Services, Hathaway Building, Cheyenne, WY 82002. Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope to receive the copy of your marriage certificate.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: marriage certificate, copy marriage, copy marriage certificate, copy your, Department Health, Wyoming Department

Romantic wedding vow ideas

It's interesting:
"Linda is beautiful. She’s intelligent. She’s funny. She can cook like Nigella Lawson and she’s got the patience of a saint. Paul, I can say with my hand on my heart that you’re one of the luckiest men alive. And she writes a cracking Best Man speech as well."

You've dreamed about your wedding your whole life, but when it's time to write the vows you're stumped. Your wedding is a celebration of your relationship with your partner, and deserves vows that express the uniqueness of your lives together. Throw away the script, meditate on your love for your partner, and then write your own wedding vows.

1. Search Your Feelings

   • When did you know that you'd found "the one"? What do you look forward to in your life together? How does your partner inspire and encourage you to grow? What do you miss when he or she is gone? Answering questions like these can generate emotional material that you can pick from and revise into vows.

   Your Relationship Trademark

   • What defines or runs throughout your relationship? Maybe it is full of laughter. Maybe you explore the outdoors together. It could be a love of cooking or animals. Besides "love, honor and cherish," pinpoint those other things you plan to do together forever and promise you'll be there for them as well.

   Look to the Poets

   • As soon as there was poetry there was love poetry. Read classic and contemporary love poems for quotes and inspiration. If you both find a poem that says exactly what you feel, abandon traditional vows altogether and simply read the poem instead. The Academy of American Poets has a search feature on its website that allows users to find poems fitting such themes as "weddings," "love" and "romance." Another resource is "A Book of Love Poetry," an anthology of classic and modern love poems, with sections for "Declarations" and "Celebrations."

   Vow Wording Wizard

   • If you're really stuck, The Knot, an online wedding resource, has a Vow Wording Wizard. You can choose from a drop-down menu of ceremony types -- ranging from civil and nonreligious unions to most religious denominations -- and choose the type of vows appropriate to your wedding. The Wizard then offers fill-in-the-blank suggestions. While not the most romantic method, the Vow Wizard might give you a nudge in the right direction.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your partner, your wedding, love poems, Romantic wedding, Romantic wedding ideas

How to write a wedding ceremony program

write a wedding ceremony program

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

A wedding program helps your guests to follow along with your program. For guests familiar with the traditions you will be following it is comforting to be able to identify the people, music, and specific customs you have included in your ceremony. For those who are not familiar with your traditions or if you have chosen a less traditional route, it can be a way to help your guests engage in the event.

Instructions

1. • 1

     No matter what your budget is for your wedding I suggest researching samples of wedding programs. Having a small budget does not eliminate the possibility of having nice programs. However, you need to identify what you like about the more expensive options in order to create a more budget friendly alternative that accomplishes the same task.

   • 2

     Do look at samples on-line, at stationary stores, or other venues. Look at the collections you may have acquired form attending other weddings. What do you find attractive in these invitations that you will either order yourself or seek to recreate?

   • 3

     Know your options. There are companies that will create the whole program, just do the duplication process, some that just sell the pretty covers to add to your basic program design, and some that offer templates for you to do your own. These templates range in price. Some are free and others go up in price as the designs and options widen.

   • 4

     The type of wedding you are having will determine some of the design of your program. Religious weddings often have specific templates to accommodate the worship aspects of the wedding ceremony. For instance many Catholic programs list the order of the mass, the readings, and the version of the Mass Parts the couple has chosen to be sung at the wedding. If you are having a religious ceremony, do ask the Church if there are any specific requirements or preferences. They sometimes do have samples for you to use as a model.

   • 5

     If you are going to include the actual music in your program, check with your music director regarding copy write issues. They can best advise you what the rules are regarding reprinting materials.

   • 6

     Most wedding programs, religious or secular, do include certain basic information. They identify the bride and groom by name, the date and location of the ceremony. Attendants are generally named along with the parents of the bride and groom. Find a way to be comfortable with any family issues and make it work for you. Do not be concerned with what others think of how you have addressed your parental issues. Start as you mean to move forward in your married life.

   • 7

     You will also want to identify the celebrant and the musicians who performed at the service. List the title, author, and if there are solists, the individual performing the piece. If you are having people do readings or provide other services during the ceremony, those people should also be credited in the program.

   • 8

     Some couples choose to add a thank you to guests at the end of the program along with a personal message regarding deceased family or members who were not able to be with them for a variety of reasons. Some samples include poems and other personal touches.

   • 9

     As you are planning on how much to include and how long your program should be do consider reproduction costs. This is where prioritizing comes to importance. If you want to use higher quality paper to print your programs on you may want to consider limiting the pages that need to be reproduced. Another option is to use high quality paper for the cover and lesser paper for the inside pages, allowing you to include more. There are many options but cost should be a factor. Even if you are not on a strict budget, there is always something more interesting you could spend money on then wedding programs.

   • 10

     As I said before you have a number of options for producing your wedding programs. A simple method is to create the program youself using a free template. I would suggest taking it to a copy shop and having them make the copies and paying the extra to have them folded. You can choose the quality and style of paper you wish to reproduce them. Some people buy wedding program covers and have the insides produced on less expensive paper. There are a variety of options. Know your budget and decide on the option that suits you financially first and then your time. Wedding planning can be busy and stressful. This should not be a time consuming activity. This is a time to enjoy yourselves.

Tips &- Warnings

• Do consider price and budget issues when planning your wedding program

• If having a religious wedding, consult with the site to determine if there are any preferences for what should be included.

• Do ask for samples at the venue you are using. These can prove helpful.

• Do not let others create stress over this issue.

• Do deal with family issues in a positive way that works for you. Do not worry about how others will judge.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding programs, your program, along with, wedding ceremony, wedding program, with your

Top things to remember for the wedding day

It's interesting:
"A wedding is a time for joy and fun, with friends and family gathered to see the happy couple off as they start their new life. But it is a time, too, when our ..."

A whirlwind of wedding preparations often makes for a forgetful bride and groom on the big day. There are a few essentials to remember on your wedding day that will help your plans run smoothly and give you piece of mind when it comes to covering last minute inconveniences just before your walk down the aisle.

1. Thank Your Guests

   • Remember to thank your partner for committing to a future together.

     You're likely to be nervous and overwhelmed with guests and friends congratulating you on your wedding day. It's not uncommon to draw a blank when it comes to putting names with faces, especially at larger weddings. If you forget someone's name and can't quite find the words to communicate, fill in the blank with a heartfelt "thank you" for your guest's support and attendance. Sincere gratitude and eye contact with your guests go a long way in reassuring them that your nervousness hasn't clouded your ability to be a thankful host.

   Lip Balm

   • Keep a small tube or container of clear lip balm handy just before your walk down the aisle. Nervousness often causes dry lips and makes speaking difficult. A last minute application of moisturizing lip balm helps prepare you for saying your vows without having to lick your lips between "I do" and "You may kiss the bride."

   Scuffed Shoe Bottoms

   • Make sure your shoes are comfortable.

     If you're wearing new shoes on your wedding day, remember to scuff the bottoms of them to keep yourself from accidentally slipping during your walk down the aisle. Simply wearing your shoes from the parking lot to the altar may not create enough friction on the soles to prevent embarrassing slips. Wipe your feet on concrete five times on each shoe to ensure you'll float down the aisle instead of tripping your way to the doctor's office for a broken ankle.

   The Rings

   • Keep both rings in a small box or jewelry bag that won't get misplaced.

     Make sure you give your wedding rings to a reliable family member or friend who can have them at the ready just before you say your vows. While your wedding rings may seem like the last thing you'd forget on your wedding day, they are easily overlooked in the last minute rush before the bride and groom meet to say their vows.

   Sewing Kit

   • Wedding dress embellishments are notoriously delicate.

     Bring a sewing kit for unexpected snags or wedding dress mishaps. Wedding dresses and veils often present last minute problems that are difficult to repair without a thread and needle. For example, if you lose a button from your dress, a thread and needle can save the day.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, down aisle, last minute, before your, just before, just before your, walk down

Christian guide to marriage counseling

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."

Even couples who start their marriages with the best of intentions can run into trouble when the stresses of life set in. Most commonly, married couples engage in conflict over money, children and sex- however, countless other issues can get a foothold in the sanctity of a union. Couples who opt for counseling may choose Christian-based or standard counseling.

1. Who Should Consult A Christian Counselor?

   • Christian and non-Christian marriage counselors want to help couples define their problems and open the lines of communication to solve them. Christian counseling provides the added resource of faith to motivate and teach.

     Many couples make vows to each other and before God when they get married. For this reason, it is a natural progression to consult God when those vows threaten to come apart. A couple can undergo Christian marriage counseling if husband and wife are not of the same faith. Christian marriage counseling is even possible if one or both of you are not Christian- however, faith makes it easier to understand and abide by the teachings of Christianity regarding marriage.

   Choosing a Counselor

   • Many licensed public counselors offer Christian counseling. These counselors have the same training and education as a secular counselor, but offer their advice from a biblical perspective.

     Another option is to select a pastor or priest. These church leaders often take psychology and counseling classes and have much counseling experience, including working with couples. Ask your pastor or priest if he is available for marriage counseling- a large church with several pastors may have one or two whose ministry is counseling. It's OK to ask about background and experience, as you would with a licensed counselor.

   Impact of Christianity on Counseling

   • Christian counseling sessions rely on different techniques to help couples solve their problems. Christianity provides a baseline for moral and immoral behavior, and all advice from a Christian counselor stems from this baseline. Couples unused to a biblical philosophy may be uncomfortable with this kind of behavior assessment.

     A Christian counselor may ask the husband and the wife to humble themselves before the Lord and look at ways that becoming a better Christian can help problems within their marriage. The husband and wife will be called to forgive as Jesus taught forgiveness. A Christian counselor will use a biblical world view to guide couples on every area of the marriage, including finances, careers, and having and raising children.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: marriage counseling, Christian counseling, Christian counselor, husband wife, advice from

How to make a heartshaped cake

make a heart-shaped cake

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 ..."

Don't have a heart-shaped cake pan? Not to worry. Follow the steps below and you'll have a perfect heart-shaped cake for Valentine's Day.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

• Aluminum Foil
• Cake Decorations
• Lace Doilies
• Cake Mix For Two-layer Cake
• Frostings For Two-layer Cake
• 1 Round Cakes Pan
• 1 Square Cake Pans
• Cake Platters Or Cardboard Base
• Cooking Racks

Instructions

1. • 1

     Prepare your favorite cake mix or batter, making sure you have enough for a two-layer cake.

   • 2

     Put half of the batter in the square cake pan and half of the batter in the round cake pan. Bake as directed and let cool.

   • 3

     Prepare a platter, cookie sheet or cardboard base for the cake. It should measure about 15 by 15 inches. Cover with aluminum foil or paper doilies as desired.

   • 4

     Place the square layer on the platter so that one corner faces down at the bottom of the platter, forming a diamond shape.

   • 5

     Cut the round layer in half, then place the cut side of each half of the round layer against one upper side of the square layer to form a one-layer heart.

   • 6

     Frost the cake, using frosting to cover the seams.

   • 7

     Decorate the cake as desired. Consider using colored decorating sugar, candy conversation hearts, red hots or other decorating candies.

Tips &- Warnings

• Make sure the sides of the square cake pan are the same size as the diameter of the round cake pan, so the edges line up correctly.

• Spread the batter evenly in both pans so that the square and round layers are equal in size. This will avoid a major height difference at the seams.

• Heart-shaped cake pans are also available.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: cake half, cake half batter, half batter, heart-shaped cake, round cake, round layer

Rustic cabins in shawnee, illinois

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."

Shawnee Township, in the southeastern-most tip of the state of Illinois near the Kentucky border. It is conveniently located near the Shawnee National Forest wilderness area, a popular destination and recreation area for outdoor enthusiasts. For those looking to experience a taste of wilderness, numerous rustic cabins in the area offer quaint yet charming accommodations.

1. Cave-in-Rock State Park Lodge and Restaurant

   • The Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge and Restaurant is located just south of the Shawnee area in Illinois, at the outermost rim of the Shawnee National Forest and along the Ohio River. The cabins overlook the river, and feature a kitchenette, private balconies and private bathrooms. Other cabin amenities include in-room appliances, such as a microwave and coffee maker, satellite television and thermostat. A family-style restaurant serves three meals daily. Nonsmoking cabins are available, as are senior rental rates.

     Cave-in-Rock State Park Restaurant & Lodge

     P.O. Box 125

     Cave-in-Rock, IL 62919

     618-289-4545

     caveinrockkaylors.com

   Rim Rock's Dogwood Cabins

   • Located right in the adjacent Shawnee National Forest, Rim Rock's Dogwood Cabins offer rustic, affordable cabins with amenities, such as furnished kitchenettes, air conditioning, satellite television, screened porches and fireplaces (wood provided). The largest cabin sleeps 9, while the smallest cabins sleep 4. Facility amenities include catered meals, an available massage therapist and a newly created trail, debuting in 2010, that spans the facility's 77 acres. Games, popcorn and DVDs can all be provided in a family-friendly atmosphere.

     Rim Rock's Dogwood Cabins

     3900 Pounds Hollow Blacktop

     Elizabethtown, IL 62931

     618-264-6036

     rimrocksdogwoodcabins.com

   Harmonie State Park

   • Harmonie State Park, located in nearby New Harmony, offers family cabins with rustic appeal. The cabins come equipped with private bathrooms and kitchen areas, and can sleep from 4 to 8 comfortably. Certain cabins are seasonal, while others are available to rent year-round. Park amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, biking and hiking trails, and picnic areas. The peak season for cabin rentals runs from early July through mid-August.

     Harmonie State Park

     Route 1 Box 5A

     New Harmony, IN 47631

     812-682-4821

     stateparks.in.gov

   Olde Squat Inn Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast

   • West of Shawnee Township, in Marion, Illinois, sits the Olde Squat Inn Log Cabin Bed and Breakfast. The venue offers cabin rentals, including daily and weekly rentals, as well as special packages, such as boar hunting or off-roading activities. The cabins are pet friendly, and come equipped with a kitchenette area and private bathrooms, while some include a wood stove, air conditioning, and wrap-around porch. In all, six cabins are available, each dating back to the 19th century. Facility amenities include a fire pit, grill and a country-style, complimentary breakfast served in the main lodge.

     Olde Squat Inn Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast

     14160 Liberty School Road

     Marion, IL 62959

     618-982-2916

     oldesquatinn.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: State Park, amenities include, Cabin Breakfast, Dogwood Cabins, Harmonie State, Harmonie State Park, National Forest

Cabins near oklahoma city, oklahoma

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."

Oklahoma City, the capital of Oklahoma, offers a peek into the history of the American West and Native Americans. The city provides urban excitement with its numerous museums, shopping and fine dining, while just outside town visitors can enjoy the Oklahoma countryside through recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, off-roading, boating and horseback riding.

1. Oklahoma City East KOA

   • The Oklahoma City East KOA Kampground offers cabins and lodges, as well as camping for tents and recreational vehicles. Located 16 miles from Oklahoma City, the shaded cabins, called "Kamping Kabins" at KOA, are smoke-free, sleep three or four people, have heat and air conditioning, and are near the restrooms and swimming pool. Guests need to bring their own linens. For families with up to six members, the lodges, known as "Kamping Lodges," offer private bathrooms, a kitchen equipped with dishes, bedrooms with linens, cable television, free Wi-Fi, central air conditioning and heating. Activities at the campground include outdoor swimming pool, bicycle rentals and walking trail, as well as volleyball and badminton. Fishing and boating is available on nearby area lakes, and there are golf courses, as well as off-roading for ATVs and motorcycles at Lake Stanley Draper.

     Oklahoma City East KOA
     

     6200 South Choctaw Rd.
     

     Choctaw, OK 73020
     

     800-562-5076
     

     koa.com

   Lost Creek Bed & Breakfast

   • Located in Chandler, Oklahoma, Lost Creek Bed and Breakfast offers a romantic retreat for couples. Themed cabins, such as The Trappers Cabin or Miss Kitty's Fancy Parlor, have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and private porches, as well as movies, music, mini-fridges and microwaves. Other options include massages and romance packages. The Howlin' Coyote Saloon located on site offers chuck wagon cookouts. Western-themed weddings, performed by the resort's own minister, Mayor Larry, includes many extras such as a wedding cake and a bouquet. Lost Creek, a non-smoking, adults-only facility, is located 46 miles from Oklahoma City in Oklahoma's wine country, with seven vineyards and wineries. Nearby Bell Cow Lake has 1,000 acres for water skiing, swimming and boating. The lake recreation area also has horseback riding trails, volleyball and hiking trails. Local fishing nets largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish or catfish.

     Lost Creek Bed and Breakfast
     

     P.O. Box 82
     

     Chandler, OK 74834
     

     405-258-0166
     

     lostcreektown.com

   Lake Thunderbird State Park

   • Lake Thunderbird State Park is located 13 miles east of Norman, Oklahoma and 28 miles from Oklahoma City. The park offers eight unfurnished one-room cabins or huts on the lake, as well as sites for recreational vehicles and tent camping. Park amenities include restroom facilities with showers, Wi-Fi and picnic tables. The facility provides a playground, on-site naturalist, concessions and children's programs, plus a swimming beach and two marinas with nine boat ramps on 6,000-acre Lake Thunderbird. Activities at the park include horseback riding, hiking, waterskiing and fishing, as well as archery and canoeing. Rentals include canoes, horses, paddleboats and tubes. The park is open all year and offers seasonal bow hunting for deer and shotgun hunting for waterfowl.

     Lake Thunderbird State Park
     

     13101 Alameda Dr.
     

     Norman, OK 73026
     

     405-360-3572
     

     travelok.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Oklahoma City, Lake Thunderbird, Lost Creek, City East, Creek Breakfast, from Oklahoma

How to buy a teddy bear

buy a teddy bear

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."

Velveteen rabbits are adorable and dolls are sweet, but the teddy bear is still the acknowledged king of the forest.

Things You'll Need

• Teddy Bear Patterns
• North American Bear Co. Bears
• Paddington Bears
• Steiff Bears
• Vermont Teddy Bears
• Winnie The Pooh
• Teddy Bears

Instructions

1. • 1

     Find out what kind of bear your child wants. Is she set on a panda or a Pooh or a Paddington? Ask her teacher or her siblings if you need ideas, or try subtly showing her some pictures.

   • 2

     Do a little research on current fads. Is there a particular brand she feels she must have? Kids' fads are sometimes impossible for parents to understand, but if her heart is set on a particular bear, it may have to be that or nothing.

   • 3

     Decide on a budget. Bears come in many shapes and sizes, and some bears can break the bank.

   • 4

     Decide on a size. Does she want a bear to carry in her backpack or to sit on the couch next to her while she reads? If she's set on an expensive brand, getting a small one may be a way to compromise.

   • 5

     Shop around, locally or online. Prices vary widely, especially for collectibles.

Tips &- Warnings

• If your child is allergic - or young - the most important thing is to choose a bear that can be washed.

• Expensive collectible bears can be gorgeous, but they're not necessarily the best choices for kids.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: teddy bear, Teddy Bears, your child

Types of contemporary christian weddings

It's interesting:
"I remember the last wedding I went to. It was in the function room of the Tate Gallery. The groom got plastered and ended up with red wine, gravy ..."

Weddings are an important phase in the relationship between a couple and the god they believe in. If they wish to put their own twist on a wedding, then they may choose to dispense with the elements they consider to be non-essential, such as a large number of guests or being married in a church. The core of a Christian wedding is the exchange of rings and vows in the presence of a clergyman. Traditional Christian weddings take place in church. All that take place in other locations are contemporary on some level.

1. Church Weddings

   • Although many contemporary weddings do not follow the tradition exactly, getting married in a church is still a common type of contemporary Christian wedding. Elements such as writing your own vows, and having modern, engraved wedding rings all give a traditional church wedding a more contemporary twist.

   Outdoor Weddings

   • Weddings can be hosted outside, arranged in a garden or on an ornamental lawn. These are still officiated by clergy and can follow traditional Christian rites, although are located in a non-religious setting. This is often the case when a family wishes to host a wedding, or when a particular area has certain sentimental meaning to the couple getting married.

   Beach Weddings

   • As with outdoor weddings, many Christian couples are choosing to get married on beaches, in weddings officiated by clergy. Weddings such as these can take place either on a beach near home, or abroad. In many tourist destinations, such as the Caribbean, the Maldives or the Seychelles, couples can get married on the beach owned by the hotel, with hotel-provided clergy.

   Small Weddings

   • Weddings do not have to be large, with many extended family members. Many Christian couples are forsaking this in favor of a more intimate wedding with close family only. A small wedding is also a less expensive option if you are working on a budget.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: take place, Christian couples, Christian wedding, christian weddings, contemporary christian, contemporary christian weddings, getting married

Romantic restaurants in louisiana

It's interesting:
"A wedding is a time for joy and fun, with friends and family gathered to see the happy couple off as they start their new life. But it is a time, too, when our ..."

The cuisine is Louisiana lends itself to romance. The fresh, succulent seafood, the traditional southern cooking and the spicy Cajun flair are a perfect recipe for an unforgettable romantic meal. Several Louisiana cities play host to romantic eateries, with views, atmosphere and, most importantly, food that make for a memorable date night or special occasion with the one you love.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. La Provence

   • La Provence is a romantic and quaint restaurant in Lacombe, Louisiana. This french bistro has a Provencal style and flavor, complete with an on-site kitchen garden and antique furnishings from Provence. A wide selection of wines and other drinks can be enjoyed on the patio or the sitting room, before being seated in the dining room to enjoy a romantic dinner of seafood, risotto, lamb or duck.

     La Provence

     25020 Highway 190

     Lacombe, LA 70445

     985-626-7662

     laprovencerestaurant.com

   The Grill Room

   • The Grill Room, in New Orleans, is located inside the Windsor Court Hotel. This romantic spot is the 2010 recipient of Forbes' Four Star Dining Award and the AAA Four Diamond Dining Award. Food that is "modern American" in its style is presented in a menu that changes with the availability of the freshest seafood, vegetables and meats. After dinner, couples can relax with a drink in the Polo Club Lounge, listening to live jazz.

     The Grill Room

     Windsor Court Hotel

     300 Gravier St.

     New Orleans, LA 70130

     504-523-6000

     grillroomneworleans.com

   Portobello's

   • Portobello's, in Baton Rouge, is a traditional grill featuring classic dishes like steaks, chops and seafood. Their self described "polished casual" style lends itself to a romantic date night, complete with candles and attention to detail, without being pretentious. Guests can enjoy their meal in the dining room, or patio seating is also available. Portobello's has two Baton Rouge locations.

     Portobello's (Jones Creek)

     15440 George O'Neal Rd.

     Baton Rouge, LA 70817

     225-756-2220

     portobellos.net

     And

     Portobello's (Bocage)

     7622 Old Hammond Highway

     Baton Rouge, LA 70806

     225-923-3222

     portobellos.net

   Bella Figura

   • Bella Figura is an Italian eatery in Lafayette, Louisiana. This romantic spot is colorful and cozy, with paintings of the landscapes of Italy on the walls, as well as patio seating and smaller "friends and family" seating rooms. The owners of Bella Figura have toured Italy and brought the tastes of their favorite regions home to Louisiana. The menu features fresh pastas, salads, gourmet pizzas and entrees. The restaurant hosts events like "wine dinners," which feature meals built around certain wine selections.

     Bella Figura

     2207-I Kaliste Saloom Rd.

     Lafayette, LA 70508

     337-216-6660

     bellafigura.net

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Baton Rouge, Bella Figura, Grill Room, complete with, Court Hotel, date night, Dining Award

How to choose catholic funeral music

choose catholic funeral music

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 ..."

Catholic funeral music is an integral part of any Catholic liturgy, and a Catholic funeral mass (or liturgy outside of mass) is no exception. Music for a Catholic funeral must conform to liturgical norms and be suitable for use in the Christian assembly. There are opportunities for creativity, since there are no hard and fast rules about musical styles or specific hymns. But care must be taken to stay within the spirit of the liturgy. Catholic funeral music includes the entrance song, responsorial psalm, gospel acclamation, and the song of farewell, at a minimum. Below are some suggestions for liturgically appropriate Catholic funeral music.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Choose Catholic funeral music to express they mystery of the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is at the heart of Catholic belief. Catholics believe that our own lives - and our hope - is rooted in following in Christ's footsteps. Like Christ, believers may live eternally in Heaven with God the Father. This is why pop music, show tunes, or other songs with a secular focus aren't appropriate for a funeral liturgy. While this kind of music can be moving and appropriate for other settings, it should be shared outside of the funeral liturgy.

   • 2

     A cantor or choir should lead the assembly in congregational singing. While a special musical tribute or piece may be appropriate at certain points during the liturgy, it's important to remember that Catholic funeral music belongs to a public liturgical celebration. In particular, the responsorial psalm, gospel acclamation, the acclamations of the Eucharistic prayer, the Agnus Dei ("-Lamb of God"-), and the song of farewell should not be performed by a soloist or choir alone- these should be sung by the entire assembly.

   • 3

     Test each musical piece against the three-pronged rule found in Music for Catholic Worship, the USCCB guide to music in the liturgy. First, does it conform to the solemnity of the liturgy? Second, is it of suitable quality for use in the liturgy? Third, will it assist the assembly in prayer? While these are somewhat subjective considerations, it can help to keep these in mind when determining whether a certain musical piece is appropriate for Catholic funeral music.

   • 4

     Examples of appropriate gathering songs include I Know that My Redeemer Lives, The Strife Is O'er, Lord of All Hopefulness, and I am the Bread of Life, among many others. Any song appropriate for communion in a non-funeral liturgy may be also used in a funeral liturgy, and there is much latitude in choosing a responsorial psalm. For the farewell song, some popular choices include Lord Bid Your Servant Go In Peace and On Eagle's Wings. See the Resources section below for a link to a complete list of recommended songs. Do be aware that this is not an exhaustive list. Any song - from classical hymns to contemporary original compositions - that meet the guidelines for liturgical music can be used in a Catholic funeral.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: funeral music, Catholic funeral, Catholic funeral music, funeral liturgy, responsorial psalm

Romantic key west vacations

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

Couples wishing to celebrate a honeymoon or anniversary, or just enjoy a vacation together, can find romance in Key West, Florida. This island community's charm and scenery includes a variety of activities, dining options and places for relaxation. Full-scale resorts can take care of all of the details so guests can focus on having a worry-free vacation.

1. Couples Activities

   • See historic homes in Key West, Florida.

     For a romantic afternoon, the Key West Lighthouse can be a beautiful backdrop. Climb the 88-step stairway in the 150-year-old building for ocean views. The lighthouse and adjacent keepers' quarters have been fully renovated and now also house a museum as well. The Key West Lighthouse is located at 938 Whitehead Street.

     For couples wishing to take in the town and all that it is has to offer, Duval Street is a great place to start. Locals and guests converge to take in the sites here, such as great people-watching, art galleries featuring artists Wyland and Thomas Kinkade, and hotels. Food options are plentiful, ranging from pizza to sushi, and shopping comes in the form of name brands like Express and Banana Republic to souvenir shops.

     For a relaxing day at the beach, Smathers Beach offers two miles of sand. Set on the southern shore of Key West, Smathers has sand imported from the Bahamas, chairs, snacks, volleyball and beach craft rentals. Couples can take a leisurely stroll along the water and picnic under the palm trees. Smathers Beach is on South Roosevelt Boulevard.

   Romantic Dining Options

   • Wine flows at Nine One Five bistro's upstairs wine lounge.

     For a couples vacation in Key West, the Grand Cafe Key West can provide a romantic meal. Housed in a Victorian mansion, this family-owned establishment features lunch and dinner. Meals are served in the house, the garden or on the wraparound porch. Shrimp, blackened mahi, snapper and veal are served, along with wine and martinis. The Grand Cafe Key West is at 314 Duval Street.

     Nine One Five Bistro is set in a 1906 Victorian home. This restaurant has a sophisticated feel and couples can dine on Florida lobster, Vietnamese chicken rolls, baked vegetarian crepe, creme brulee and chocolate truffle cake. Upstairs is Point 5, Nine One Five's wine lounge. Visit Nine One Five and Point 5 at 915 Duval Street.

   Where to Stay

   • Couples can enjoy spa services at local resorts.

     The Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa offers a bar and grill, seafood restaurant, and room service. The hotel staff can help guests set up romantic outings such as a sunset sail or a spa package. For an added touch, the Amour package gives couples breakfast, rose petals, truffles, candles, beverages and also includes a late checkout. The Hyatt is located at 601 Front Street.

     At the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel guests can enjoy views of their private beach, seven acres of land and a pool on the waterfront. They offer a tavern, restaurants and poolside dining. Staff at the Marriott can reserve scuba adventures, sailing, kayaking, hiking tours, and a free shuttle to downtown. With the Romance Honeymoon Package those celebrating their honeymoon or even a couples retreat can enjoy rooms facing the Gulf, chocolate-covered strawberries, champagne and a couple's massage. Rooms include spa tubs, gourmet kitchens and balconies. The Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel is located at 3841 North Roosevelt Boulevard.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Nine Five, Duval Street, Beachside Hotel, Cafe West, Grand Cafe, Grand Cafe West

Snowflake ideas for winter weddings

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

Getting married in the winter season can conjure up ideas of an all-white affair and may make it easy to pick a wedding theme. Crisp, white scenery and cool weather can make the excitement of a wedding even greater. Snowflakes, a symbol of winter, are each unique in their own special way, just like brides. Incorporating snowflakes into your wedding can make it a standout event.

1. Cake Decor

   • The cake is one of the focal points of the a wedding reception and can have guests talking and eagerly anticipating cake-cutting time. For a winter wedding, an all-white cake decorated in snowflakes can be the perfect addition to your winter nuptials. Ask your bakery to experiment with the cake, garnishing it with edible snowflakes on a few tiers or, perhaps, use a larger snowflake as the cake topper.

   Save the Dates and Invitations

   • If you are using a snowflake theme theme to represent your winter wonderland affair, start right away with save-the-dates cards and invitations. Use a snowflake stamp for the back of invitation envelopes, and use a picture taken of you and your groom-to-be during winter season set to a snowflake background found online for your save-the-date cards. Online vendors can help you create inventive themed date savers and invitations.

   Lights and Hanging Decor

   • If your wedding takes place during winter months when snow isn't falling and the weather is bearable, consider a rooftop reception or indoor/outdoor space where snowflake-shaped lights and decor can be hung. String lights in snowflake shapes can add whimsy and wonder and be a perfect all-white backdrop for your winter wedding.

   Centerpieces

   • At a seated affair guests will spend a lot of time in front of the centerpiece. It has be something interesting and eye-catching, and with a snowflake theme this can be achieved easily. Get creative with snowflake holiday ornaments by placing them in a tall, clear vase. Also use snowflake place cards, chargers or pillars embellished with a snowflake design.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: with snowflake, your winter, during winter, ideas winter, ideas winter weddings

Romantic honolulu restaurants

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

Couples often choose Honolulu, Hawaii as a destination for weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries or a romantic getaway. With its island culture, beaches, as well as vibrant city life, Honolulu offers unlimited activities for tourists and residents alike such as sunset walks on the beach, swimming with dolphins and surfing. Along with a multitude of activities to choose from romantic restaurants abound in Honolulu.

1. Michel's at The Colony Surf

   • Voted "Best Restaurant for Romance" by Honolulu Magazine, Michel's at The Colony Surf, with its ocean views, has been serving French cuisine since 1962. Michel's is open for dinner and features live music most nights. Start dinner with Michel's lobster bisque, made with fresh Maine lobster flamed in cognac at the table, or the escargot served in herb garlic butter. For dinner try the prime filet, lobster and crab, half a Maine lobster stuffed with Kona crab and filet mignon served with asparagus, mushrooms topped with a wild mushroom sauce and vin blanc. Finish off the meal with a chocolate souffle or cherries jubilee. Special menus are available for private parties.

   Soul de Cuba Café-

   • Open since 2006, owner Jesus Puerto developed Soul de Cuba Cafe with the intention of promoting Afro-Cuban cuisine, music and decor. Earth-toned walls adorned with religious Cuban art surrounds diners while salsa and bolero music plays in the background. Appetizers include shrimp and scallop ceviche with tomato, red onion, mango and cilantro and papa rellena--lightly fried mashed potato croquette stuffed with seasoned ground beef and topped with tomato aioli. The menu features salads and sandwiches as well as chicken, beef, pork and seafood entrees. End dinner with a mojito cheesecake or a traditional Spanish flan. Soul de Cuba Cafe is open for lunch and dinner and catering is available for special events.

   Chef Mavro

   • Owner and chef George Mavrothalassitis is a winner of the James Beard Foundation award, one of the most prestigious culinary awards in the United States. Chef Mavro serves an Asian/French cuisine made from fresh and local ingredients. The dining room is decorated with island art and crisp white tablecloths. The prix fixe menu changes four times a year and offers three-, four- and six-course meals complete with wine pairings for each course. Seasonal dishes include a marinated ahi with an olive tapenade and quail egg sauce as well as wagyu beef served with celery root puree and pancetta brussels sprouts in a pinot noir sauce.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Soul Cuba, Chef Mavro, Colony Surf, Cuba Cafe, dinner with

Decorating a beach wedding with mason jars

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

While the Mason jar is typically associated with canning, drinking apple juice and storing dried goods, this simple glass jar is also beginning to make an appearance as a popular wedding decoration. The jars are easily dressed up and converted into theme-friendly decorations. A beach-themed wedding provides a mixture of elegance and simplicity- therefore, decorating your beach wedding with Mason jars will support your theme. Mason jars can be used as vases, candle holders or favors to decorate a beach wedding. Mason jars are also cost effective, as a set of 12 jars costs approximately $20.

Things You'll Need

• Set of Mason jars
• Twine
• Orchids
• Wire
• Hot glue gun
• Sand or coarse salt
• Votive candles

Instructions

1. Decorative Flower Vases

   • 1

     Purchase a set of Mason jars large enough to serve as flower vases. Decide if these decorative vases will serve as table centerpieces or hang as aisle decorators from the chairs at the ceremony. Fill the jars with flowers and place them at the center of each table if you are using Mason jars as centerpieces.

   • 2

     Cut a length of twine long enough to wrap around the underside of the lip of the Mason jar when using jars as aisle decorators. Before securing the length of twine around the jar, cut another length of twine to act as the handle from which the jar will hang.

   • 3

     Tie a piece of twine that you use as a handle to the twine to wrap around the under lip of the Mason jar. Tie the twine with its attached handle to the under lip of the jar making a secure knot. Use a dab of hot glue to secure the twine in place so it will not slip off. Repeat these steps until all the Mason jars have handles.

   • 4

     Fill each Mason jar with orchids or other beach-themed flowers, such as anthuriums, gardenias or birds of paradise. Hang your flower vase mason jar from the side of each chair that sits on the aisle.

   Candle Holders

   • 5

     Use pint or half-pint sized Mason jars to serve as candle holders. These jars can adorn tables, sit on the aisle at the ceremony or be placed strategically around the reception area at your beach-themed wedding. The light from the candles create a soft and classy romantic atmosphere.

   • 6

     Fill each Mason jar one-third full with sand or coarse-grained salt. Choosing sand or salt will change the color and look of these candle holders.

   • 7

     Place votive candles, also known as tea lights, atop the salt or sand in each jar. If you're concerned with fire safety at your wedding, you can substitute candles for safer LED lights.

Tips &- Warnings

• You can find Mason jars at craft stores, garage and yard sales. Mason jars are also a decorative take-home favor for your guests. Decorate your jars with seashells and ribbon, filling them with individually wrapped saltwater taffy or shell-shaped chocolates.

• Remember that Mason jars are made of glass, so be mindful of their placement, as people are likely to go barefoot at a beach wedding. Check each jar for cracks and chips prior to using them as decorations.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Mason jars, beach wedding, beach wedding with, length twine, wedding with, aisle decorators

Romantic honeymoon places in texas

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

Texas may not be the first place that you think of when you think of romantic honeymoons. However, there are many beautiful and often overlooked spots in the Lone Star State that make for romantic, fun-filled--and usually affordable--options for your first newlywed trip. Whether you're looking for a short post-wedding weekend to relax before a long honeymoon later, or your budget just allows for a quickie trip, consider Texas as a honeymoon destination.

1. Texas Gulf Coast

   • Along the Texas Gulf Coast there are three larger cities with many little beaches in between. On the upper coast is Galveston--the Gateway to the Gulf, so to speak--which is a larger city with many resorts and hotels. Check in to the Mermaid & Dolphin Inn for a cozy B&B stay, or the Galvestonian for a condo-style stay right on the beach.

     In the middle of the coast is Corpus Christi, another nice beach town with fishing and good seafood restaurants. However, with a local university, you may have to contend with rowdy college kids.

     Near Corpus Christi is Port Aransas, a smaller beach if you're looking for something more secluded, with some of the clearest water on the Gulf. You can also deep-sea fish, parasail, rent bikes and kayak. Try the Best Western Ocean Villa for a good value near the beach.

     At the west end of the Gulf Coast near the Mexican border is South Padre Island, sometimes synonymous with college spring breakers. But if you visit at the right time of year, late winter or early summer, you should avoid the party people. Book a coastal-view room at the Sheraton Resort Hotel and enjoy its swim-up bar and beachfront location.

   Big Cities

   • Honeymoons don't have to be tropical or near the beach. Texas' big cities such as Houston and Dallas offer swanky hotels, lively nightlife and first-class restaurants.

     In Houston, do it up first-class: book a stay at the St. Regis or the chic Hotel ZaZa, dine at Tony's for a sumptuous Continental meal or at La Colombe d'Or in a romantic converted mansion, then toast your marriage at Skybar with rooftop drinks. Spend the day at the Museum of Fine Arts or at the Space Center, or just hang out poolside at your hotel.

     In Dallas, check into the over-the-top luxurious Mansion on Turtle Creek---and if you want, never leave. Its restaurant consistently makes the nation's best lists. You can book in-room massages and drink on either the terrace or at the bar. If you must leave the grounds, stroll through the Nasher Sculpture Center or the Dallas Arboretum.

   Austin, San Antonio and Hill Country

   • Austin, San Antonio and the surrounding Hill Country offer either a cool urban honeymoon in the heart of the city, or a bucolic, rolling hills and country-life kind of trip in the surrounding Hill Country.

     Austin offers a bustling music scene, plus historic and romantic hotels such as the Driskill and the Mansion at Judge's Hill.

     San Antonio's River Walk makes for a scenic honeymoon spot. Book a stay at La Mansion del Rio Hotel, with River Walk views, 24-hour room service and spa treatments available in your room.

     If you and your hubby are the outdoorsy types, you'll fall in love with the hiking, bicycling, kayaking and sheer beauty found in Hill Country spots such as Boerne, Canyon Lake and Kerrville. Get cozy in a rented cottage such as the Bird's Nest Guest Cottages on the Guadalupe River near Kerrville, or check in to the Spa House at the Paniolo Ranch B&B in Boerne for a stunning view.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Hill Country, Gulf Coast, Austin Antonio, Corpus Christi, Country Austin, Hill Country Austin, honeymoon places

Styles of wedding veils

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."

Whether it is made of tulle, lace, mesh or a combination of the three, a wedding veil should complement the bride's dress and give her outfit a finished look. Most veil lengths can be either be worn with a form-fitting cap, a tiara or a headpiece, or attached directly to the bride's hair with combs. A traditional veil is white or ivory, but now that colored wedding dresses are a popular trend many veils are dyed or trimmed to match the rest of the bride's outfit. There are several styles of wedding veils- generally speaking, the more formal the wedding, the longer the veil.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Blusher

   • The blusher veil is usually worn in tandem with another veil. It is a shoulder-length veil that hangs over the face during the wedding ceremony and is lifted by the groom when it is time for him to kiss his bride.

   Birdcage

   • A birdcage veil is very short, usually just covering the eyes. It is often made of coarse diamond-shaped mesh and is worn attached to a hat or a hair ornament.

   Mantilla

   • A mantilla, or Spanish veil, is worn draped over the head like a scarf. It is usually made of lace and is fastened to the hair with combs or bobby pins.

   Shoulder Length

   • A flyaway veil is shoulder-length and is usually made up of many different layers. A fountain veil is also shoulder-length, but it is worn gathered at the top of the head for fullness and a "cascade" effect.

   Fingertip

   • As the name implies, this veil hangs down to the bride's fingertips. It can be made of one layer or several layers and trimmed with lace or ribbons.

   Three-Quarter Length

   • This veil is also called the waltz or ballerina veil because it falls somewhere between the bride's knees and her ankles. It may be made of plain tulle or lined with satin.

   Cathedral

   • A cathedral-length veil is the most formal of wedding veils- it trails down the bride's back and onto the floor behind her. Cathedral-length veils are usually worn with cathedral-length dresses, which have trains.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: down bride, formal wedding, hair with, hair with combs, Styles wedding veils, usually made