Bed & breakfast or inns in chester, new jersey

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

Chester, New Jersey, was founded in the early 1700s as the town of Black River. Despite the ominous original name of the location, the Chester of today is a quaint, historic town approximately 50 miles from energetic New York City. Travelers looking for a quiet change of pace from the frenetic sights and sounds of nearby tourist areas can book a stay at one of the many bed and breakfasts or inns located near Chester.

1. Neighbour House

   • The Neighbour House Bed and Breakfast is a little more than five miles from Chester. Built in 1830, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was turned into the current bed and breakfast in 1992, according to the establishment's website. Four rooms are available for guests, all on the second floor of the building. Rooms are named for their color schemes and feature cable television, telephones, air conditioner and wireless Internet. A laptop computer is available for guests to use on the premises. The moderate rates include a country breakfast of in-season fruits, homemade bread, eggs, cereal and beverages.

     The Neighbour House Bed & Breakfast

     143 W. Mill Road

     Long Valley, New Jersey 07853

     908-876-3519

     neighbourhouse.com

   Whistling Swan Inn

   • The Whistling Swan Inn is in Stanhope, New Jersey, a mere nine and a half miles from the heart of Chester. The Whistling Swan Inn website lists the establishment as a bed and breakfast. Nine guestrooms are available on the second and third floors of the Victorian-era building. Built in 1905 and turned into a bed and breakfast in 1985, the Whistling Swan Inn is decorated with antiques and reproductions from the era of its construction. Luxury-priced rooms boast pillow- or feather-topped beds, Egyptian cotton linens and queen- or king-sized beds. Rooms come equipped with TVs, VCRs, DVD players, wireless DSL Internet connections and private bathrooms. Guests enjoy a complimentary country buffet breakfast and a 24-hour hospitality bar. The Whistling Swan Inn has central heating and cooling for comfort and a complimentary computer, printer, fax machine and copier for business travelers.

     Whistling Swan Inn Bed & Breakfast

     110 Main St.

     Stanhope, New Jersey 07874

     888-507-2337

     whistlingswaninn.com

   Crossed Keys Inn

   • The Crossed Keys Inn bed and breakfast is in Andover, New Jersey, nearly 18 miles from Chester. The building was erected in 1790 and is outfitted with antique furnishings and 18th-century dé-cor. Five rooms are available for guests at a luxury price, with a minimum stay of two days required on weekends and holidays. The establishment's website touts the inn as a wonderful venue for weddings, boasting five fireplaces, two which are in guest bedrooms. Crossed Keys is also equipped with a library, sun porch, deck and garden.

     Crossed Keys Bed and Breakfast Inn

     289 Pequest Road

     Andover, New Jersey 07821

     973-786-6661

     crossedkeys.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Whistling Swan, Crossed Keys, miles from, available guests, Neighbour House, Andover Jersey, breakfast inns

How to preserve coral reefs

preserve coral reefs

It's interesting:
"'I used your site to create my wedding speech. ... 'Chaps, just got to say a huge thanks for the help your site gave me preparing for my brother's wedding. As best ..."

Coral reefs are threatened by climate change, as well as by damage caused by boats, divers, hurricanes and oil spills. The key to preserving coral reefs is to mitigate the threats so corals have time to recover. Conservationists have established coral nurseries in the Florida Keys and U.S. Virgin Islands to grow and transplant coral seedlings as part of the effort to preserve and expand existing colonies. Their efforts to restore and expand existing coral colonies help to preserve the genetic diversity necessary for each species of coral to interbreed.

Things You'll Need

• Concrete blocks
• Rebar
• Zip ties
• Wire cutters
• All-fix brand epoxy
• Plaster
• Dixie cups (for plaster molds)
• Toothbrushes
• Boat
• Scuba-diving gear

Instructions

1. Individual Actions

   • 1

     Visit coral reefs responsibly. Do not touch a coral reef or anchor your boat to it while diving or snorkeling. Dispose of your trash properly, being careful not to leave fishing lines or nets on the beach or in the water.

   • 2

     Volunteer for a coral reef cleanup. Patronize and support businesses near the coral reef that participate in coral reef ecosystem management efforts.

   • 3

     Reduce your own carbon emissions. Use only organic fertilizers so they don't end up polluting the water system and damaging coral reefs. Conserve water to prevent excess wastewater from ending up in the oceans. A temperature change of less than two degrees bleaches and almost kills coral as it expels its algae fuel sources. During the 1900s, bleaching became more widespread and more frequent as the average surface temperature of the planet's oceans increased by half a degree.

   • 4

     Call on your elected representatives to take action to protect coral reefs. Share tips with your friends and encourage them to get involved as well. As greater concentrations of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolve into the oceans, seawater becomes more acidic. Corals have less of the carbonate they need to build their skeletons. Research shows that when carbon dioxide reaches atmospheric concentrations of 550 ppm, reefs begin to dissolve. At current rates, we will reach this concentration by the year 2050. Support restoration efforts such as coral nurseries.

   Coral Nurseries

   • 5

     Anchor concrete blocks to the ocean floor. Pound rebar into the ocean floor and use zip ties to secure the rebar. Pour plaster into Dixie cups or a similar size and shape mold to make pedestals for coral seedlings.

   • 6

     Clip a small fragment from a healthy coral specimen. The fragment should be about one to two inches long. Use epoxy to glue the coral fragment to the pedestal. Affix the pedestal to the concrete block.

   • 7

     Monitor the growth of the coral fragments several times per year. Brush off algae with a toothbrush so it does not smother and overtake the young coral. Re-attach zip ties or rebar that have come loose.

   • 8

     When the coral stem has grown in size and branched out, transplant it to a reef outside the nursery. Leave the coral attached to the pedestal and fasten to the surface below with epoxy.

Tips &- Warnings

• Whatever your beliefs are about global warming or its causes, corals are threatened by temperature increases, especially when exacerbated by other threats. We can all take steps to reduce carbon emissions.

• When coral colonies grow large enough, they spawn. This natural process generates much more coral much more quickly than the piece-by-piece human transplanting methods. Human efforts help preserve coral to the point where it can thrive on its own.

• Coral nurseries are tended by conservationists who have the credentials and permits required to work on endangered species. While the tools are simple, this is not an activity every individual can undertake.

• In 2010, the Nature Conservancy and its partners received $3.3 million in federal job stimulus funds to reseed coral reefs and build more nurseries. All these funds go directly to fund the preservation and restoration efforts, but funds may not be available in future years.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: coral reefs, coral reef, preserve coral, carbon dioxide, carbon emissions, coral colonies

Hotels within walking distance of the san diego convention center

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?"

From industry trade shows to high school homecoming dances, the San Diego Convention Center plays host to a variety of community events. When you've traveled great distances to attend these events, finding lodging close by is paramount. The convention center's prime location on the coast gives you plenty of hotel options within walking distance. All of them are near a thriving shopping district.

1. San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina

   • The Marriott is right next door to the Convention Center. The location is noted for its views of the city coastline and its proximity to a 446-slip marina. Guests can use this marina for a variety of water sports or boat rentals. Though guest reviews have lauded the hotel for its cleanliness and spacious rooms, the noise levels from the nearby train station and foot traffic on the street can be particularly troublesome. In addition, free parking is scarce in the vicinity.

     San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina

     333 W. Harbor Drive

     San Diego, CA 92101

     619-234-1500

     marriott.com

   Embassy Suites San Diego Bay

   • Approximately one block from the Convention Center, this Embassy Suites is perhaps lauded most by guests for its access to free parking, a rarity among hotels in the area. The hotel boasts expansive state rooms and, according to several guests' reviews on the Trip Advisor website, a delicious breakfast. However, because of the hotel's generally lower prices than surrounding options have, guests have complained of noise issues from families with young children and young people partying.

     Embassy Suites San Diego Bay

     601 Pacific Highway

     San Diego, CA 92101

     619-239-2400

     embassysuites.com

   Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotel

   • This Hilton is about two blocks from the Convention Center. It's in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, renowned for its music festivals and thriving arts and business communities. Guests have praised its service and dining options, and modern, boutique-style decor. Some guests, however, have complained of plumbing and leak issues in the state rooms, as well as noisiness from the train station next door and parking prices at upwards of $35 a day.

     Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotel

     401 K St.

     San Diego, CA 92101

     619-231-4040

     hilton.com

   Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

   • The Hard Rock is about 1 1/2 blocks from the main entrance of the Convention Center. Guests described the decor and design as chic and sophisticated. The hotel has bars and restaurants on the premises, and it's geared primarily to adults looking for nightlife and a party atmosphere. Drawbacks include its lack of family-friendly amenities for people with children and noise from partying guests.

     Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

     207 5th Ave.

     San Diego, CA 92101

     619-702-3000

     hardrockhotelsd.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Diego 92101, Convention Center, Embassy Suites, Gaslamp Quarter, Hard Rock, Hotel Diego, walking distance

Wedding locations in florida

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

With the number of weddings that occur in the United States, it would probably not be too much of a stretch to guess that one is held every day. When couples are planning their special day, it is not unreasonable that they would want the surroundings to be beautiful. One way to have a better chance of favorable weather on your happy day is to plan a wedding in sunny Florida--it is known, after all, as "the Sunshine State."

1. Orlando

   • Over the years, Disney World in Orlando has evolved from simply being a getaway for families to becoming a romantic haven for people who want to start their new life together with a bit more flair. Disney World offers three different wedding packages. The Escape package is designed to be more of an intimate affair, only allowing 20 guests. The Wishes package includes a reception that can either have a buffet style meal or a plate-specific menu. As of 2011, the Couture package pairs you with celebrity wedding planner David Tutera. The two of you will design every aspect and detail of your wedding to make a truly unique and memorable experience.

   Fort Walton Beach

   • Fort Walton Beach is a well-known beachfront spot for weddings. There are multiple beach wedding coordinators in the area, including Barefoot Weddings and Forever I Do Weddings. Both companies offer a wide variety of packages of different values that range from Forever I Do's "A Touch of the Sea" package, which includes a three-hour cruise and a photographer, to Barefoot's "Intimate Island," a simple ceremony that includes only the minister and a photographer.

   Jacksonville

   • The weather in Jacksonville plays a big part in its popularity as host to many weddings. The temperature usually ranges from no lower than 45 degrees in the coldest part of the year to 90 degrees in the warmest part. Companies like First Coast Weddings and Events will help relieve the stress of planning your big day. They can offer you unlimited access to their staff while planning your wedding, and they will assist you with budgeting everything from the ceremony to the reception.

   Miami

   • The Miami area offers its own eclectic mix of wedding options that can be put together by any number of planners including David's Bridal or Alegria's Brides. Another option that you will not find everywhere is Sun Dream Yacht Charters. Sun Dream Yacht's crews are trained to serve wedding parties ranging from a few people to a few hundred. Their boat sizes range from 39 feet to 137 feet. A wedding on one of Sun Dream's boats can carry a special convenience. As soon as you have finished saying "I do," your wedding reception can simply begin right there on the boat.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, Disney World, Dream Yacht, Fort Walton, Fort Walton Beach, locations florida

Us honeymoon destinations

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

Couples planning their honeymoon can find an exciting, relaxing, luxurious or simple honeymoon spot without getting out their passports. Destinations throughout the United States have special honeymoon packages, but with a little detective work, newlyweds who want to plan their own honeymoon can find a romantic location that will make their trip one to remember. Each couple can find the honeymoon spot that's perfect for them, whether they stay in a tent or in a five-star hotel.

1. Mackinac Island

   • Relax in a Victorian atmosphere on Mackinac Island, a picturesque island located in Lake Huron between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The island does not allow motorized vehicles, so visitors can explore the island leisurely by bike, horse-drawn carriage or by walking. Honeymooning couples may stay at the island's Grand Hotel, a landmark inn of old-time elegance and comfort, or may find accommodations at any of the island's other inns, hotels or guest houses. In addition to exploring the island's scenery, honeymooners may wander around the island to see historic sites including Fort Mackinac and the Stewart House Museum. Honeymooners will find accommodations and activities on the island throughout the year.

   New England

   • Spend time in New England on your honeymoon. Honeymoon destinations in Maine, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire include small towns or large cities for sight-seeing, hiking or taking it easy after the excitement of the wedding has died down. You can spend time in Boston, touring historical sites such as Bunker Hill, the Old North Church and the Paul Revere House, and then head out to some of the smaller towns in New England. Stay in Bar Harbor and wander through the trails of Acadia National Park in Maine, find lodgings in Bennington, Vermont and explore the Green Mountain National Forest, or find a hotel at any of the towns along the Atlantic seaboard.

   Portland

   • Head to Portland, Oregon for a romantic honeymoon that gives you plenty of opportunity to marvel at Oregon's beauty while exploring Portland. View Portland's art scene at the Portland Saturday Market, walk the trails of Forest Park, see the botany exhibits at the Portland Rose Garden and relax at the local Mt. Tabor and Tom McCall Waterfront parks. Day tours from Portland can include a ride up to the Oregon coast, a trip to the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River, or a tour of the Willamette Valley Wine Country. Spas, resorts and hotels abound in Portland for perfect honeymoon accommodations.

   New York City

   • Newlyweds who want to visit a vibrant, exciting city can spend their honeymoon in New York City. The city offers plenty of nightlife, bus tours, museums, theater productions, historical sites and other cultural venues and activities, along with almost every type of eatery imaginable. Choose from boutique hotels, spas, small guest rooms or even, if you're on a budget, clean and pleasant hostels where you can book your own room.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: their honeymoon, find accommodations, historical sites, honeymoon find, honeymoon spot

How to buy jewish wedding gifts

buy jewish wedding gifts

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."

When buying gifts for a Jewish couple on their wedding day, you will want to consider beautiful, practical items as well as presents which reflect their Jewish heritage. You can find appropriate Jewish wedding gifts in the mall as well as in specialty Judaica stores. It is worth seeking out artisans who produce unique creations which the couple will cherish for many years.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Find out if the couple is registered in a particular store and if they want gifts specifically from the registry. If you have your heart set on giving a unique craft, consult with someone close to the couple about whether buying something not listed on the registry is appropriate or not.

   • 2

     Look for something unique if the couple is not registered. You will at least know they will not end up with duplicates. Try some artwork or a quilt, which is always a needed item. Items connected with Jewish rituals, such as challah covers (to cover bread loaves), leather-bound prayer books and candlesticks are good choices.

   • 3

     Wrap the gift yourself if you are skilled at this or have the gift wrapped at the store. It usually doesn't cost very much, and a professional wrapper does a perfect job. Put your address on the tag to make thank-you note writing easier.

   • 4

     Ask if there is going to be a gift table at the wedding, and if so, bring your gift to the wedding. If not, you can have the gift sent to the couple.

   • 5

     Keep in mind that giving money is appropriate, and it is the gift of choice for some couples. It is a Jewish tradition to give money in units of 18, because the number 18 symbolizes "life." Give the money in cash directly to the bride or groom the day of the wedding or to a member of their family.

   • 6

     Check with the store concerning their return policy. Most stores with a registry will exchange a gift without the couple needing to produce a receipt.

   • 7

     Think big. You might want to join with other friends of the bride and groom and make one large purchase that the couple lacks, such as a dining room table, rather than individual smaller purchases. A kosher cruise is also an excellent choice.

Tips &- Warnings

• Consider gifts connected with Jewish rituals if the couple is newly observant, since they are unlikely to have these items in their homes.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding gifts, bride groom, connected with, connected with Jewish, couple registered

Wording for wedding announcements & invitations

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

Choosing invitations and wording them appropriately is an important part of wedding planning. Wedding invitations should give your guests all of the information they need to attend the wedding celebration. The way the invitation is worded also indicates the formality of your wedding. To clearly communicate with your wedding guests, use the correct wording on your invitations and announcements.

1. Formal Wedding

   • To communicate the formality of your wedding, use formal wording. Use such phrases as "request the pleasure of your company." Spell out numbers in dates and times instead of using numerals. Use Mr. and Mrs. when writing the names of parents. Write full names instead of simply first and last. Write "R.S.V.P." to request a response from guests.

   Casual Wedding

   • Casual weddings are often chose by couples who prefer a smaller celebration and a more relaxed dress code. Casual invitations indicate that a party is casual simply by their wording. By using casual phrases and writing numbers in digits instead of spelling them out, you indicate a more casual theme.

   Traditional Wedding

   • Traditional wedding ceremonies are often quite formal, so the invitations should have a formal tone. In addition to including all the necessary information, traditional invitations use traditional wording, such as "the honor of your presence is requested."

   Alternative Wedding

   • Couples with unusual lifestyles or interests that they want to express in their wedding celebration often plan weddings that reflect their individuality. People that enjoy horseback riding sometimes get married on horses. People who like scuba diving sometimes get married at the beach in diving apparel. Invitations for alternative weddings must clearly state what guests should wear and let them know what to expect at the wedding and reception to ensure that all guests are prepared and comfortable.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, announcements invitations, formality your, formality your wedding, invitations should, sometimes married

Wording for golden oldies birthday party invitations

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?"

A Golden Oldies birthday party typically focuses on 1950s rock n' roll music. This birthday party is suitable for people of any age, as long as the guest of honor loves the music of the era. Establish the party theme ahead of time and build anticipation for it by making it evident in your invitations with creative design and wording.

Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. • 1

     Design the cover of your Golden Oldies party invitations. Once you know what the invitations will look like, the imagery will help you choose the best wording for the theme. For example, if your invitation is in the shape of a record, your cover wording can read like a record jacket.

   • 2

     Choose a writing style for the inside of the invitations. For example, if your invitation looks like a 50s diner menu, write the party details as if they were menu items, with a title line and a description line for each point. Writing styles for invitations can be formal and just stick to the basics like time, date and location or you can use a creative writing style by wording the invitation like poetry or song lyrics.

   • 3

     Write potential wording ideas on scrap paper or "dummy" invitation templates before writing on the actual invitations. It may take several tries before you come up with the perfect wording and layout.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: birthday party, party invitations, birthday party invitations, example your, example your invitation, golden oldies

Wording for a traditional wedding announcement

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 …"

Send wedding announcements to friends and family after your wedding day if you had a small wedding, eloped or had a destination wedding. The wording for a wedding announcement differs slightly from the wording for an invitation. Announcements are usually mailed on the day of the wedding or the next postal service day, but they can be sent up to one year following the wedding. Print the announcement on wedding invitation stock. Hand address the announcements. The exact wording depends on who paid for the wedding because announcements, like invitations, usually come from those persons.

Instructions

1. • 1

     List the hosts for the wedding on line one of the announcement. For example, Mr. and Mrs. Jason Wagner, Dr. and Mrs. Michael Plummer or Rev. and Mrs. Richard French. Traditionally, the parents of the bride hosted the wedding.

   • 2

     Announce the event on lines two and three. Line two should read "have the honour to announce." "Honour" is the traditional spelling on formal announcements, but "honor" is now being accepted as as well. Line three should read "the wedding of their daughter."

   • 3

     List the bride's complete first and middle names on line four. Do not abbreviate or use nicknames on a traditional announcement. Use Elizabeth, not Beth, Suzanne or Suzy.

   • 4

     Put "to" on line five by itself. List the groom's title, his full first name and his last name on line six.

   • 5

     Spell out the month and day of the ceremony on line seven. Use this format for the month and day: "on Saturday, the tenth of July". The year goes on line eight. The year is also spelled out: "Two thousand and ten".

   • 6

     Name the facility where the wedding took place on line nine. For instance write "Singing Hills Church" or "Lakewood Country Club". On line ten, list the city and state, but not the physical address. Again spell out each word since abbreviations are not used on traditional announcements. For example, write "Syracuse, New York", not "Syracuse, NY".

Tips &- Warnings

• Address the wedding announcements one or two weeks before the wedding.

• Mail wedding announcements after the wedding. That way, recipients will not misunderstand and think they are invited to the wedding because it will have already already taken place.

• Mail announcements to business associates to inform them of a change in name.

• Do not send announcements to anyone who received an invitation, even if they declined.

• Recipients of wedding announcements are not obliged to send a wedding gift.

• Do not use the term "happily" to describe the announcement, as people presume those involved are happy.

• Wedding announcements and Save the Date cards are not the same things. Send Save the Date notices months before the wedding.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding announcements, wedding announcement, before wedding, friends family, Save Date, should read

Do it yourself bridal shower games

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 ..."

Unless you're paying for a party planner --- and really, there's no need --- most bridal shower games are do-it-yourself. You want to have games that keep everyone talking and interacting. Activities where you have to write are fun, but only use one or two. Spread the games out throughout the party to keep everything moving smoothly. Games can be a good way to bring people back together after breaks for snacks or after the bride has opened gifts.

1. Wedding-Movie Crashers

   • Create a little game of charades with wedding movies. Put names of wedding movies on small note cards before the shower. Then split everyone into two teams. Players have to act out the movie and get their teammates to guess within two minutes. Movies include: "The Wedding Planner," "Runaway Bride," "My Best Friend's Wedding," "27 Dresses," and more. This can be a great game to play after a food break, since guests can finish eating while they play.

   Bits of Advice

   • Make do-it-yourself even easier by turning the task to the guests. As each guest arrives at the party, hand them a note card and ask them to write a few words of wisdom on the card for the bride-to-be. Remind guests that funny notes are completely acceptable, too. Then, while everyone is enjoying cake later on, have the bride read the cards aloud. You're guaranteed to bring out a few laughs and tears. Plus it keeps the flow of the party going even while eating. Buy cute cards and a nice box so the future bride has a beautiful keepsake.

   Bride's Apron

   • Turn your gift to the bride into a game. If you know the bride could use a few kitchen supplies, stock her up with gadgets and tools. Tie or clip each kitchen tool to an apron and have the bride parade it around the room, pausing for a few seconds in front of each guest. Tell the guests to memorize as much as possible on the apron. Then have the bride leave the room. Each guest has two to three minutes to remember as many items as possible. Give a prize to the guest who remembered the most items, and then let the bride-to-be know that she gets to keep the apron and all the gadgets attached.

   Name Game

   • Break the ice between guests by playing the name game, but with a twist --- use couples instead. The name game means that every guest has a label stuck on her back when they walk in with a name on it. She must ask yes or no questions to decipher who she is. Once they have found out who they are, instruct guests to find their perfect match. You can pick romantic couples, such as Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy, Bonnie and Clyde, Buffy and Angel, or mix up the pairings with more varied choices, like Fox and Hound or peanut butter and jelly. Give prizes to the first one to three couples to find each other.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bridal shower, bridal shower games, have bride, shower games, yourself bridal shower, each guest

What is a wedding sand ceremony?

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

A wedding sand ceremony is known as the unity sand ceremony. It is an old tradition, used by Hawaiians and some Native American tribes. The wedding sand ceremony is becoming a widely used in weddings to replace the traditional candle ceremony in Christian marriages.

1. Origins

   • There is speculation that the wedding sand ceremony came from Hawaiians or Native Americans. The speculation comes from the thought that these cultural groups married on beaches instead of churches.

   Process

   • The unity sand ceremony is a quick and simple process that involves the groom and the bride pouring sand into a vase. As the bride and groom pour each vial of sand into the vase, wedding vows are spoken to each other.

   Symbols

   • The wedding sand ceremony symbolizes the unity of 2 lives joining together. Some couples choose to keep a little sand in the vials to represent the fact that they are still individuals.

   Variations

   • There are different variations to the wedding sand ceremony. You can choose to incorporate your parents and friends. You may even want to include your children.

   Sand

   • The sand may be a variety of colors for each person. Each person will have his own color of sand to add to the bride and groom's sand in the vase.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: sand ceremony, wedding sand, wedding sand ceremony, bride groom, into vase

Wording etiquette for wedding seating place cards

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."

Organizing a seating chart and all the details that go along with it can be one of the most tedious parts of wedding planning. However, if you're having a formal sit-down reception, it's a must. One of the details that goes along with seating guests is the place cards. Sometimes confused with escort cards, which direct guests to their assigned tables, place cards are typically set on the tables at each guest's designated place setting. There can be some variation in wording etiquette, but it's important to keep it consistent, whatever you choose.

1. Traditional Wording

   • The most formal and traditional way to word the guests' names on place cards is to list title, first name and last name. For example, Mr. John Doe might be sitting at table 12 next to Mrs. Jane Doe. It is also considered proper to list only title and last name, such as Mr. Doe, if there will only be one person by that name at the table.

   Alternative Wording

   • Some couples might plan a large but informal wedding that necessitates seating place cards for practicality. However, a more laid-back reception doesn't necessitate formal wording like a black-tie event does. In such a situations, it is appropriate to simply list first and last names on the place cards. John Doe can be listed next to Jane Doe.

     Perhaps less common and even more informal, first names alone may be used when only one guest by that name is sitting at the table. This type of wording is acceptable but is obviously not practical in every situation, such as when there happen to be multiple Johns assigned to sit at table 12.

   The "and Guests"

   • If you've given single guests the option of bringing a date to the wedding, it is important to find out the names of their dates, as correct etiquette is to provide an individual place card for each person in attendance. If the name of someone's date isn't listed on the reply card, you should contact the single guest to find out.

   Name Placement

   • Place cards can be handwritten with calligraphy or even printed on a computer. If you're using an artistic font, make sure that it is readable for guests. Tent-fold cards are often used, and it is important to remember that the guest's name should be written or printed on both sides of the card so that it can be easily spotted.

     Other couples choose something other than traditional cards to indicate guests' seats. For example, if your guests have a choice of entré-e, necessitating the need for menus, you can opt to provide personalized, individual menus for each guest. Guests' names are printed at the tops of the menus and placed at the appropriate place settings. You can be creative with what you use as a place card as long as you remain consistent with how you word the names.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: place cards, seating place, seating place cards, along with, details that

Wording etiquette for wedding placecards

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."

Planning the wedding reception means doing your best to make sure all your guests have a great time. This also means following a few rules of etiquette in the wording on your place cards so your guests will feel as comfortable as possible at the celebration.

1. Escort Card Wording

   • The escort cards for your wedding reception inform each guest of their table assignment. For a formal wedding, the escort card should read "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith." Escort cards for an informal reception can use the first names of the couple (e.g. John and Mary Smith). If a friend or family member brings a date to the wedding, you can have the date's name on the same escort card as your friend, or print a separate card for the date. If you print the name of your guest and date on one card, the woman's name should be first.

   Place Card

   • The term "place card" refers to the escort cards, place cards, and name cards visible during the reception. The place card should be on the table, facing the chair where the assigned guest will sit. On these cards, print the formal prefix and last name of each guest. If there are two guests with the same last name at the same table, use the first names or initials of these guests as well. For example, if there are two Mr. Jones at a table, place cards for the two guests can either read Mr. R. Jones and Mr. M. Jones, or Mr. Richard Jones and Mr. Michael Jones.

   Menu Card

   • Use a personalized menu card if you're not using place cards. If you allow your guest to choose their entree at the reception, the menu card is the best choice. The menu that is set as a place card should have the guest's name at the top. If you choose not to personalize the menu, placing three or four menus at the center of the table for guests to review, or put nameless menus at each place setting.

   Name Cards

   • Name cards simply include the guest's name, in formal or informal fashion, but should only be for friends and loved ones. It is best not to use name cards as a substitute for an escort card or place card. Some couples hosting large receptions may have guests use the name cards at the table or wear them to identify everyone at the celebration. You can also attach name cards to any gifts given at the reception.

   Additional Information

   • Escort cards placed on the table should be in alphabetical order. If a married couple has different names, the woman's name would come first in this case as well. Even if using place cards and escort cards for the reception, it may also be a good idea to frame a copy of the seating chart and place it at the front of the reception hall. This way, guests will easily find their tables.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: place cards, card should, name cards, cards your, each guest

Congressional salaries & retirement benefits

It's interesting:
"It seems that just a couple of days before the wedding, he chose a tall, striking blonde behind his fiances back. He voted for Boris Johnson on Thursday…"

Article I of the Constitution of the United States establishes the basic parameters governing the manner in which U.S. representatives and senators receive compensation for their services. Building on these constitutional provisions, members of both houses of Congress enjoy salary, health insurance and retirement benefits and expense accounts of different types.

1. Salary

   • The salary for members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate not in major leadership positions is $174,000. The salary of the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader of the Senate is $223,500. Other leaders of the House and Senate (Minority Leaders in both chambers, for example) $193,400. These are the base salary figures in place as of 2009. The salaries of representatives and senators are subject to annual cost of living (COLA) increases.

   Establishing Salary

   • Representatives and senators set their own salaries. There is one major caveat associated with increasing salaries. The U.S. Constitution prohibits a salary increase from taking effect (except for a COLA) until after the next general election. In other words, current members of each chamber cannot vote themselves an immediate pay increase.

   Retirement Benefits

   • After serving in Congress for 5 years, a member of the House or Senate is entitled to full retirement benefits. These benefits include health insurance coverage as well as pension benefits paid through the Federal Employee's Retirement System (for members initially elected after 1984). Senators and representatives initially elected in 1984 or earlier receive pension benefits paid through the Civil Service Retirement System.

   Retirement Plan Contributions

   • The amount of money contributed into an individual senator's or representative's retirement account varies by years of service. Additionally, beyond the amount contributed by the government on behalf of a member, a senator or representative can add pretax dollars from her own salary to her retirement account consistent with the rules governing 401(k) plans generally. Rules governing 401(k) plans are available through the Internal Revenue Service.

   Social Security

   • Prior to 1984, members of Congress did not receive Social Security benefits for their time in the House or Senate. Representatives and senators did not pay into the Social Security system while in office. Since 1984, members of Congress pay into the Social Security system as do most American workers.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: retirement benefits, Social Security, House Senate, 1984 members, 1984 members Congress, benefits paid

Lovran, croatia hotels

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."

Lovran is both a town and a tourist resort on the south-eastern coast of Istria. The lush evergreen vegetation and temperate climate have made Lovran a vacation destination since the 1890s. Lovran features two large public beaches and many small hotel beaches. Lounge around your beachside hotel or participate in water sports or recreation activities throughout the town.

1. Hotel Lovran

   • The Hotel Lovran consists of two villas by the sea containing 46 double rooms, seven single rooms and three apartments. Its amenities include a hotel restaurant, tennis courts, spa and wellness center, congress halls and Internet access. The Hotel Lovran organizes "active holidays" such as boat excursions, fishing, diving, rafting, hang gliding, mountain biking, mountain climbing or walking the historical Promenade.

     Hotel Lovran

     &Scaron-etali&scaron-te M.Tita 19/2

     Lovran 51415

     Croatia

     385-51-291-222

     hotel-lovran.hr/

   Pansion Stanger

   • The Pansion Stanger is a beachside hotel with 21 guestrooms. Options include single, double and triple rooms all with their own telephones, bathrooms, satellite televisions and refrigerators. The hotel restaurant serves international cuisine as well as local Croatian favorites or grab a bite from the pizzeria and cafe near the beach. As of 2010, children up to 3 years old stay free, children 3 to 12 receive a 50 percent discount and children 13 to 18 receive a 40 percent discount.

     Pansion Stanger

     M. Tita 128

     51415 Lovran

     Croatia

     385-51-291-154

     pansion-stanger.hr/

   Hotel Excelsior

   • Renovated in 2006, the 178-room Hotel Excelsior now boasts an indoor and an outdoor pool, spa services, dental services, a restaurant, a tavern, a cafe and two bars. All rooms include a television, hairdryer, mini-bar and telephone. Although the website provides prices in Euros, payment must be made in Croatian kuna.

     Hotel Excelsior

     &Scaron-et. M. Tita 15

     Lovran 51415

     Croatia

     385-51-272-222

   Hotel Park Lovran

   • Hotel Park Lovran opened in 2005 and sits right below Ucka Mountain. It consists of three single rooms, 42 double rooms, two triple rooms and three suites, all of which include hair dryers, bathrooms, mini-bars, safes and DSL connections- nearly all have a mountain view. Large conference and meeting rooms can handle both business and wedding receptions. The hotel also features a coffee shop, restaurant with international and Croatian cuisine, aperitif bar and wellness center.

     Hotel Park Lovran

     M. Tita 60

     51415 Lovran

     Croatia

     385-51-706-200

     hotelparklovran.hr/

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Hotel Lovran, Hotel Excelsior, Hotel Park, Hotel Park Lovran, Pansion Stanger, Park Lovran, 51415 Croatia

Origins of the sand pouring ceremony

It's interesting:
"There are those who accuse Paul of being unromantic. Well, all I can say, Linda, is that he'll prove them wrong on February 14 when he celebrates Valentine's ..."

A new tradition is quickly taking the place of a unity candle in wedding ceremonies. The origin of the sand ceremony may be disputed, but several backgrounds add to the usage of the symbolic ritual.

1. Hawaiian Origins

   • How the tradition of the sand ceremony started in Hawaii is rather vague, but Laura Lane of Sacred Unions suggests that couples started it themselves. Lane said couples were likely married barefoot on the beach with couples kneeling at a certain point of the ceremony to scoop sand into a container.

   Native American Origins

   • The Native American start of the sand ceremony is just as unclear as those of the Hawaiians. It is believed that it started in the Southwest United States in much the same way as the Hawaiian theory.

   Trista and Ryan

   • Many Americans first learned of the unity sand ceremony during the wedding of Trista (Rehn) and Ryan Sutter of "The Bachelorette" fame. The couple took part in a sand ceremony at the conclusion of a televised wedding series.

   Couples with Differing Origins

   • The sand ceremony has also been used historically to unite couples (and their families) who hail from different countries. In this variation, the bride and groom each use a vial of sand from his or her homeland.

   Uniting Families

   • As blended families became more common, the unity sand ceremony became more prevalent, pushing this use into contention as the origin of the ritual. In this variation, each member of the new family (mother, father and each child) use their own color of sand to combine into a large container.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: sand ceremony, Origins sand, became more, Native American, Origins sand pouring, pouring ceremony

Diy succulent wedding centerpieces

It's interesting:
"Today, I think we have all learned that there are few things more marvellous than an Autumn wedding, and nothing more beautiful than a Fall bride. It is wonderful occasions like this that provide us all with great memories that we will never, ever forget, and I am incredibly honoured to have been of part of this special day. Also, I want to thank you for getting married at this time of the year, because now, whenever I see the leaves turning colour and falling off the trees, I’ll be reminded that it’s time to buy your anniversary gift."

Floral centerpieces may be the most popular choice to adorn the reception tables at weddings, but non-floral centerpieces are gaining in popularity as well. Not only are succulent wedding centerpieces easy to make at home, they also help the bride and groom save money. While some food-inspired centerpieces are not meant to be eaten, others can double as guest wedding favors or even the reception’-s dessert. These interesting centerpieces can follow a wedding theme or coordinate with the wedding colors. For example, tropical fruits can be displayed at a beach wedding or oranges and chocolate can complement an orange and brown wedding.

Things You'll Need

• Miniature cakes or cupcakes
• Tiered cupcake holder
• Large glass jars
• Candies
• Metal scoops
• Goodie bags
• Small glasses
• Fruits and vegetables
• Large white candles
• Colored ribbon
• Pumpkins
• Gourds
• Faux leaves
• Food baskets
• Paint
• White flowers

Instructions

1. • 1

     Replace a large, over-the-top wedding cake with miniature cakes displayed at each table. Alternatively, put several cupcakes or miniature cupcakes in a tiered cupcake holder as the centerpiece. Making all these cakes at home may be a larger project than expected- it’-s best to order the cakes and cupcakes from a baker.

   • 2

     Split up a large candy buffet by putting three large, glass jars in the center of every table and filling them with bite-sized candies. Make sure to include a metal scoop in each jar so guests can easily reach the candy, and don’-t choose candies that will melt throughout the evening, like exposed chocolate. This centerpiece can double as guest favors by placing a small cellophane goodie bag at each place setting and directing guests to fill up before leaving the reception.

   • 3

     Fill small glasses with lemons and limes and put several white candles around them in the center of the table. Citrus fruits, as well as kiwi, star fruit and pineapple, can even be cut in half and displayed as a centerpiece, since their exposed fruit is colorful.

   • 4

     Stand stalks of asparagus straight up against large white candles and secure with colored ribbon. Choose ribbon that matches the wedding colors. Place three candles with asparagus in the center of each table.

   • 5

     Create a seasonal centerpiece by gathering pumpkins and gourds of different shapes, sizes and colors in the center of the table. Add to the Autumn theme by scattering fake leaves around the base of the centerpiece.

   • 6

     Place a food basket in the center of each table. Food baskets can be made up of several kinds of treats, from wine and cheese to chocolate and even coffee. These centerpieces can double as guest favors.

   • 7

     Paint fruit to create a colorful, whimsical centerpiece, and display in large glass bowls. For example, paint apples and pears in shimmery gold and silver. Place in a large bowl along with white flowers.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: double guest, each table, succulent wedding, succulent wedding centerpieces, wedding centerpieces, white candles, cakes cupcakes

How to prepare a family budget excel spreadsheet

prepare a family budget excel spreadsheet

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 ..."

Raising a family is expensive and requires financial planning. Figuring out where all your money goes throughout the month and making plans for next month’-s budget is crucial, but many people don’-t know how. Creating a family budget is easy when you use an electronic spreadsheet application -- such as Microsoft Excel -- that tracks your family’-s finances in one place. These budget spreadsheets feature built-in formulas that do all the math required, so anyone can prepare a family budget fairly quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Financial records

Instructions

1. • 1

     Gather financial records for your entire family. Separate income and expense records into two piles.

   • 2

     Open Microsoft Excel. Click on the “-Office Button”- or “-File”- on older versions. Select “-New.”- Scroll down the template list and click on “-Budgets.”- Select “-Home Budgets.”-

   • 3

     Narrow your search by disregarding templates not created specifically for families or households, such as templates titled “-Personal,”- “-Wedding”- and “-College.”- Find a budget template that best fits your family’-s needs. Click “-Download”- or “-Open.”-

   • 4

     Check the spreadsheet layout to ensure there are categories that cover your family’-s incomes and expenses.

   • 5

     Highlight the category name and type in your new name to rename it. Right-click on a row’-s number and select “-Insert”- to add new categories or select “-Delete”- to remove categories as needed. Keep all new categories added above the total section. This ensures the new category is included in the total formula.

   • 6

     Use your family’-s financial records to fill in the budget spreadsheet’-s cells for both income and expenses. Use your mouse or the “-Tab”- key to move from cell to cell and the “-Undo”- arrow to make corrections. Replace any figures previously on the templates with your figures and leave any unused categories blank.

   • 7

     Notice the total amounts throughout the spreadsheet changing as you type in your family’-s income and expenses. Determine what modifications, if any, are needed for your family’-s budget for the next month. Plan what to do with excessive income, such as setting up a savings account. Decide what expenses your family can do without if your monthly total is negative.

   • 8

     Click the “-Office Button”- or “-File”- on older versions. Select “-Save,”- name the file and click “-Save”- again.

Tips &- Warnings

• Always round up when estimating your monthly family budget

• Get your excel spreadsheet completed first and list as many as you can think of under miscellaneous before writing your own expenses in.

• Divide your family budget spreadsheets in 2 if paid bi-weekly or 4 if every week to help determine your monthly payment schedules

• Always include an excel category under miscellaneous expenses for emergencies and decide how much your family can free up each week to add to this fund

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your family, family 8217-s, family budget, your family 8217-s, excel spreadsheet

Hawaii kono hotels

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

Three volcanoes divide the main island of Hawaii into two sides: the Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai. The west side of these volcanoes is Kona, meaning leeward. The volcanoes provide a great windbreak for the Kona side of the island, and provide the better sport fishing and water sports on the main island. Kona gets practically no rain and has approximately 300 days of sunshine that make it an outdoor person's paradise. Kona offers plenty to do to keep you busy during the day, and these hotels give plenty of options for a place to rest after a full day of play on the beach.

1. Seaside Hotels Hawaii

   • The Kona division of the Seaside Hotels in Hawaii boasts a garden atmosphere surrounded in native plants on a sun deck that looks out over an ocean view. There are two pools, and anyone looking for beach action can get plenty here with para-sailing, volcano hikes, and dinner cruises. Other local attractions include Kealakekua Bay, local coffee farms, submarine dives, and a monument to Captain Cook. The hotel offers laundry, Internet, air conditioned rooms, refrigerator, balcony or lanai, restaurants and shopping.

     Kona Seaside Hotel

     75 5646 Palani Road

     Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740

     800-560-5558

     info@konaseasidehotel.com

     http://seasidehotelshawaii.com/HotelKona.aspx

   King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

   • The King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel boasts recently renovated rooms, decorated in a style that is reminiscent of the foundation of the islands. Lava flows, coffee leaves and the colors of the rain forest. Green ferns combine with the bright fiery orange of a magma flow. Heavy wood furnishings give each room a rich and elegant appearance. Enjoy a flat screen TV, Kona coffee in a room coffee maker, wireless Internet, and a summertime Lu'au on Kailua Bay beach, the edge of the kingdom of Kamehameha. The Lu'au is a feast and celebration that offers great food, and lots of fun things to do, including learning about island survival aspects such as open a coconut, hula, or you can get a Polynesian tattoo.

     King Kamehameha Hotel

     75-5660 Palani Road

     Kailu-Kona, Hawaii 96740

     808-329-2911

     http://www.konabeachhotel.com/

   Uncle Billy's

   • Fish for the sporty Blue Marlin, see the area coffee farms, take a hike on volcano roads, beachfront paths or rainforest trails. Uncle Billy's provides a luxury accommodation, comfortable rooms with cable TV, refrigerator, alarm clock, lanais, air conditioning, telephone, a swimming pool, Internet kiosk, shopping and a coin laundry on site.

     Uncle Billy's Hawaiian Family Hotels

     75-5739 Alii Drive

     Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740

     800-367-5102

     reservations@unclebilly.com

     http://www.unclebilly.com/

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Hawaii 96740, King Kamehameha, Uncle Billy, Beach Hotel, coffee farms, Hawaii kono, Hawaii kono hotels

The etiquette on addressing envelopes for a wedding reception

It's interesting:
"I would like to say that I have a lot of admiration for Linda. She met Paul during his ‘colt’ years, and has dealt with most of his flaws. She’s a beautiful lady, and an even more gorgeous bride. I hope Paul realizes just how lucky he is. But I still don’t know how he got her to say yes because all she seems to say now is “No! Paul, no!”"

Addressing wedding reception invitations is not as simple as scribbling down the names and addresses of your guests on the envelopes. Etiquette dictates everything from the order of names to the spelling of street addresses. Following etiquette lets your guests know exactly who is and isn't invited to your ceremony and reception, while ensuring you don't offend any etiquette experts on your list.

1. Font

   • The outer envelope is traditionally addressed by hand with a black pen in either print or cursive. The bride may address her own invitations or hire a calligrapher. Hand-addressed envelopes are the only way to go for a formal wedding, according to Brides.com. For an informal affair, the bride may print from a computer, granted the font matches her invitations.

   Location

   • The guest's information and only the guest's information goes on the front of the outer envelope. The envelope is addressed in four lines on the center of the invitation in the following order: name of guest(s), street address, city and state, and ZIP code. Return address information is located on the back flap of the envelope via an address stamp or label. The type of street such as lane or boulevard and the state are spelled out in full.

   Titles

   • Formal titles are used before the guest's name- for example, General for a male military officer, Captain for a female military officer, Reverend for a member of the clergy and The Honorable for a judge. The title of Doctor indicates a medical doctor while Dr. indicates a non-medical Ph.D. Otherwise, Mr., Mrs. or Ms. precedes the guest's name. Mrs. indicates any married woman, even if she uses her maiden name. Miss and Ms. may be used interchangeably for an unmarried woman over age 18.

   Order

   • Addressing an envelope to a couple can be complicated. The husband's name comes before the wife's name unless the wife holds a formal title and the husband does not, such as Dr. Jane Smith and Mr. John Smith. The names of unmarried couples who live together and same-gender couples are listed in alphabetical order. Other adults living at the same residence such as a child over 18 receive their own invitation. Minor children are not included on the outer envelope.

   Inner Envelopes

   • Always addressed by hand, inner envelopes omit the first names of the guests listed on the outer envelope. Mr. John and Mrs. Jane Smith becomes Mr. and Mrs. Smith, for example. Invited children are listed on the inner envelope by first name only from oldest to youngest. Adding "and guest" after an unmarried guest's names indicates he may bring a guest. When the guest is involved in a relationship of at least six months, her partner should be listed by name on the inner envelope.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: outer envelope, wedding reception, addressed hand, addressing envelopes, addressing envelopes wedding, envelopes wedding, envelopes wedding reception

How to have a disney world wedding

have a disney world wedding

It's interesting:
"You may never see a wedding like this one again … not now that they've banned ... 26-Mar-201As an extra special wedding present, I've organized a ..."

If you've always dreamed of having a fairy tale wedding, consider exchanging your vows in Disney World's magical setting.

Things You'll Need

• Wedding Invitations
• Wedding Gowns
• Champagne
• Wedding Cakes
• Wedding Bands
• Disney Fast Passes
• Airline Tickets

Instructions

1. • 1

     Decide whether you will have an intimate wedding or a gala including 250 guests.

   • 2

     Visit Disney World at least once prior to the wedding to check out your options. Visit the new Wedding Pavilion, the theme park (you can hold weddings there during the off-season, when the park closes early), Treasure Island, restaurants, hotels and other locations on the property to get some ideas of where you would like your wedding to be held.

   • 3

     Meet with a Disney wedding coordinator to find out about existing wedding packages.

   • 4

     Understand that the price for an intimate Disney wedding for two begins at $3,000 and includes resort accommodations, a ceremony and admission to the attractions. Destination weddings for up to 20 guests begin at $8,000, and customized weddings that include as many guests as you would like average $19,000 to $25,000.

   • 5

     Discuss details with the wedding coordinator. Make decisions about flowers, menu, music, officiant, photographer and decorations.

   • 6

     Allow time during your wedding weekend to take advantage of the activities available at the Disney Magic Kingdom Park, MGM Studios and Epcot.

   • 7

     Choose a Disney theme for your reception. For instance, for a Cinderella wedding, the bride arrives in Cinderella's glass carriage drawn by white ponies, and dessert is served in a white chocolate glass slipper. Other possible themes include Beauty and the Beast or Aladdin. The price is about $395 to have one character attend your wedding, and goes up from there, with additional charges for each extra detail you add.

   • 8

     Realize that you may have to make a second trip to Disney World before the wedding to make last-minute arrangements for a large wedding.

Tips &- Warnings

• Plan your wedding for the off-season, when rates are down and the theme park will be less crowded. Late spring or fall are good times.

• Consider foregoing the coordinator if you are having a small wedding and plan to manage the details on your own. Realize that this can be challenging to handle from out of state, but could save you a lot of money.

• Book your Disney reservations online (see Related Sites). You can also call Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings department at (407) 828-3400.

• Keep in mind that there is no waiting period or blood test required for a marriage license in Florida.

• Disney can also arrange a bachelor party or other special event related to your wedding.

• Avoid selecting a holiday weekend for your wedding, since these are always extremely busy.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your wedding, Disney wedding, Disney World, disney world wedding, have disney, have disney world, off-season when

What are the victorian wedding colors?

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."

When you think of the Victorian Era, you may think of elegance, lace, tea, high society and, of course, Queen Victoria -- who just happens to be the first woman to popularize wearing a white wedding dress. When it comes to a Victorian-themed wedding, Victorian colors all tend to be subtle, simple and light.

1. Shades of White and Cream

   • Decorating your Victorian wedding in shades of white and cream is perfect for a winter or spring wedding. Keep the chair covers, linens, flowers and vases simple and in a soft white or ecru. To add a touch of color, incorporate cream or a very light gold to your table runner, napkins, ribbon around the covered chairs and a few flowers in the table centerpieces. If you'd like to add just a bit of color, set the tables with light floral patterned china plates and tea cups. Keep in mind the plates and tea cups all do not have to match perfectly. For true Victorian style, use lace tables runners in antique white.

   Light Pinks and Greens

   • Many women wore light pastel colors during the Victorian Era. For a spring wedding, incorporate light pinks and light greens into your Victorian wedding. You want to choose one dominant color -- for example, keep the table cloths, chair covers and vases in a soft green. Then add little hints of light pink in the floral centerpieces or in pink floral dinnerware. You may also want to choose to keep everything antique white and pull the greens and pinks in with flowers decorating the entire reception hall.

   Light Blues and Purples

   • Light blues and soft purples are other favorite colors from the Victorian Era. Delphiniums and hydrangeas, are both light blue and lavender flowers that are also very romantic-looking. You can also get Queen's Anne Lace and have it spray painted in your wedding colors. You may want to incorporate your wedding colors through subtle details like the china dinnerware, your bridesmaid dresses and the groomsmen tuxedo vests. To keep with the Victorian Era theme, consider placing oil lamps on every table instead of a floral centerpiece, ensuring the oil lamp shades are in your wedding colors.

   Pastel Yellow and Off White

   • Light yellow and off white are the perfect colors for spring, summer and even fall Victorian weddings. You may want to mix and match the yellow and white colors for your table clothes, chair covers and china dinnerware. For a more elegant feel, keep everything off white, but have hundreds of yellow roses decorating the entire hall. For a fall wedding, you may want to incorporate orange or gold to give your wedding a more autumn feel.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding colors, your wedding, chair covers, your wedding colors, antique white, china dinnerware, decorating entire

How to decorate a united methodist church for a wedding

decorate a united methodist church for a wedding

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 ..."

Couples getting married in a United Methodist Church are often able to decorate the church before their wedding, in order to add a personal touch to their ceremony. Although they probably don't have as much freedom as couples getting married in a hotel, they should still be able to dress the church for the occasion. The rules at each church differ, so couples should check with the church staff ahead of time, to see what is allowed.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Book a time to get into the church to decorate. If you are not able to decorate until your wedding day, ask friends and family members not in the wedding party to help out. You will have enough things to worry about, without having to make time to decorate the church.

   • 2

     Use pew bows in your wedding colors to add a personal touch. Some churches will provide pew hangers to drape the bows from. If your church does not have these, use floral tape, masking tape, elastic bands or ribbons to attach the bows -- so you do not damage the pews.

   • 3

     Display flower arrangements throughout the church. You can put bouquets on the alter, at the entry and in the chapel area. If there aren't enough flat surfaces to place vases on, use pedestals.

   • 4

     Use candles to decorate the church. The church may have candelabras that you can borrow- but if not, you can rent them. It's a good idea to use drip-less candles or metal candles with wax inserts, so that candle drips don't get all over the floor.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: decorate church, able decorate, church wedding, decorate united, decorate united methodist

Alternatives to the candle ceremony in a wedding

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

Many couples use a unity candle during their wedding ceremony, but this tradition is expected and common. Several alternatives allow you to have a more singular and memorable exchange. These include using other items to symbolize unity and drawing upon ethnic traditions. Choose the candle ceremony alternative that best suits you and your future spouse.

1. Sand Ceremony

   • In this tradition, the bride and groom each have a vial of different-colored sand. The bride pours a portion of her sand into a large container. Then the groom pours a portion of his sand into the container, making a distinct layer of his own color. Finally, the bride and groom pour the remainder of their sand into the container at the same time. This tradition represents their individuality as well as their unity. Children from previous relationships can also participate by having their own vials of sand that they deposit similarly to the bride and groom. The children's participation is a way to infuse family unity into the ceremony.

   Rose Ceremony

   • A sweet touch that you can add to your ceremony is the exchange of roses. The bride and groom exchange a single rose when they first meet at the altar. The rose symbolizes the couple's first gift to one another and that the couple will be able to endure hard times throughout their marriage while staying together.

   Wine Ceremony

   • In this tradition, the bride and groom each have a glass that contains a different flavor of wine. They each pour a portion of the wine into an empty glass. This tradition symbolizes how the individuals are now mixed together into a new unit.

   Jumping the Broom

   • Commonly considered an African tradition, jumping the broom symbolizes taking a leap of faith by entering into a marriage. Complete this ceremony immediately before the recessional.

   Breaking Glass

   • A common Jewish tradition, breaking a glass symbolizes reverence for Jewish history and religion. It also represents the longevity of a marriage. This tradition is completed at the end of the wedding ceremony.

   Handfasting

   • The bride and groom face each other with their hands overlapping. An elected person places a cord on top of the couple's hands while a blessing is made. Then he wraps a cord around the couple's wrists, binding their hands together. This tradition represents the commitment to always stay together and how a couple is bound by marriage vows.

   Wedding Bouquets

   • The mothers of the couple place a separate bouquet in a vase close to the altar. The bouquet represents each family. Later in the ceremony the bride picks a stem from her family bouquet while the groom picks a stem from his family bouquet. The bride and groom exchange the stems, symbolizing the uniting of the two families.

   Truce Bell

   • This Irish tradition involves a small bell that the minister blesses. The bride shakes the bell to make it ring and the groom repeats. The bell is then taken to the couple's home where it serves as a reminder of the wedding vows. If there is turmoil in the relationship, the bride or groom should ring the bell to remind the other of their vows.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, candle ceremony, sand into, Alternatives candle, Alternatives candle ceremony, bride groom each, bride groom exchange

List of items to purchase for a wedding

It's interesting:
"Generally speaking, a good wedding speech should sound as if it has been prepared and rehearsed over a long period before the event but the seemingly ..."

In order for your wedding day to run smoothly, it's a good idea to write a checklist of everything that needs to happen before the day arrives. One of the most important lists is an itemized sheet of everything that needs to be purchased for that day. These items can be broken into different categories, with the main ones being decorations, food, clothing and lastly, any miscellaneous items that don't necessarily fall under the other categories.

1. Decorations

   • The decorations are among the most important details of a wedding. Of course, food and the dress and tux are important, but if the venue doesn't look the way you want it to, it may be harder for you to enjoy the reception. On your decorations list, include tabletop items such as flowers, centerpieces and candles. You may also have other floral arrangements for the floor, as well as streamers and perhaps balloons for the reception area.

   Food

   • Food is an integral part of the wedding reception, and you have many choices when deciding what to serve. Considerations include the heaviness of a meal, its messiness and the overall cost. Once you've decided on the theme of your event, you can create your list comprised of as many courses as you deem necessary. You can have an appetizer, entree and dessert- the dessert role will probably be filled by the wedding cake. Then, consider your drink options. With the food portion of a wedding being so complicated, stressful and time consuming, many brides opt for catering with an open bar, thus eliminating the need for a specific drinks list. If you do opt for a specific beverage menu, keep a checklist of these items, as well.

   Clothing

   • In order to make sure everybody in the wedding party has the right dresses and tuxedos, make a list of each person who's going to be in the party and each item that needs to be purchased. For the bride, this could be as simple as just the dress, or it could include jewelry, shoes and other accessories. Don't forget the garter belt, and bring extras of certain items, like pantyhose.

   Miscellaneous

   • You may be purchasing a number of stationery items for the wedding, for instance invitations, programs, banners, signs, stamps, personalized napkins, thank you notes, envelopes and wrapping paper. If you're buying gifts for the wedding party or favors for the guests, add these to the list, as well. Finally, consider giving guests disposable cameras to make their own memories.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: that needs, everything that, everything that needs, items purchase, items purchase wedding

Mocktail party theme ideas

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

The mocktail, or nonalcoholic cocktail ("mock cocktail"), began its popularity with the Shirley Temple, which was invented back in the 1930s to celebrate the cheery child actress. Today, such drinks are served to many different people, not just children who want a cocktail but aren't of age, pregnant women, recovering alcoholics or simply partiers who are looking for a delicious drink but don't want the consequences of alcohol can all enjoy these drinks. Theming a party around mocktails can be a great way of bringing a touch of glamour to a gathering, particularly for teenagers, who aren't yet allowed to drink.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. Shirley Temple

   • In honor of the child actress for whom the first mocktail was named, theme your mocktail party around Shirley Temple. Decorate with pictures of the dimpled actress, lollipops (in celebration of her famous recording "On the Good Ship Lollipop") and ribbons in memory of the bows that decorated her famous curls. For drinks, serve Shirley Temples: two parts ginger ale or Sprite, one part orange juice and a splash of grenadine, with a cherry and an orange slice on top. For a classy touch, mix the drinks in a martini shaker and serve them in real glass cocktail glasses.

   Roy Rogers

   • Named after the television star who played a cowboy on "The Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Show," the Roy Rogers mocktail is similar to a Shirley Temple but leads to an entirely different party theme. Decorate Western-style, with bales of hay, horseshoes, small potted cacti and horse figurines, while screening famous westerns or DVDs of Rogers' television show. The drink itself is simply cola (Coca-Cola works well, as does Pepsi) with a splash of grenadine and a maraschino cherry garnish.

   Tropics

   • A tropical-themed mocktail party can warm up your guests even in the heart of winter. Decorate the house like a beach, with sand, beach umbrellas, sunscreen and seashells. Music like the Beach Boys works gives the party an even more tropical flavor. As far as mocktails go, the sky's the limit. Any traditionally tropical cocktail can be turned into a mocktail simply by eliminating the alcohol: eliminate the rum in a pina colada or a mojito, or the tequila in a margarita, and the perfect mocktail is yours.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Shirley Temple, party theme, child actress, Mocktail party, Mocktail party theme

How do wedding processionals work?

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 ..."

The wedding processional is the formal entry of the wedding party at the ceremony. Wedding processionals generally follow a precise order, but alternatives are utilized as circumstances require. There are differences in processionals based on religion. For non-religious ceremonies, the processional is entirely in the hands of the wedding couple.

1. Members

   • The members of a wedding processional include the bride, groom, best man, maid and/or matron of honor, ushers or groomsmen, bridesmaids, grandparents of the bride and groom, parents of the bride and groom, ring bearer and flower bearer. Smaller weddings may not have all of these members. Larger weddings go beyond this list to include junior ushers or junior groomsmen and bridesmaids.

   Religious Differences

   • There are differences between Christian and Jewish wedding processionals. For example, in a Jewish ceremony, the groomsmen walk down the aisle in pairs, whereas at a Christian ceremony, they walk in from the side at the start of the processional, or they accompany the bridesmaids down the aisle. At a Christian ceremony, the best man and groom enter with the officiant after the guests are seated, while at a Jewish ceremony, the groom may come in with the rabbi or with his parents. At Jewish ceremonies, both parents accompany the bride down the aisle, while it is usually only the father who accompanies his daughter during a Christian ceremony.

   General Order

   • Most wedding processionals follow a particular order, with some exceptions based on religion and others based on circumstance. The grandparents of the bride and groom are escorted to their seats by the ushers or groomsmen, followed by the parents. Next, the ushers or groomsmen walk down the aisle, followed by, or accompanying, the bridesmaids. Some processionals have the ring and flower bearers go first, while others have them after the maid or matron of honor. Depending on the preferred tradition, the groom may enter next, accompanied by his parents, followed by the bride and her parents, or the father of the bride may accompany the bride alone if the groom is at the front already.

   Music

   • The music for a wedding processional typically starts after the parents of the bride have been seated. Common selections for processionals include Beethoven's "-Moonlight Sonata,"- Schubert's "-Ave Maria"- and Gershwin's "-Rhapsody in Blue."- The processional music typically changes or increases in volume right before the entry of the bride.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, down aisle, Christian ceremony, ushers groomsmen, wedding processional, accompany bride, based religion

How to dry a wedding bouquet

dry a wedding bouquet

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

The wedding bouquet is probably the most memorable bouquet of flowers that one will ever have. That's why so many brides want to dry their wedding bouquet so that they can enjoy it for years to come. Use the following to learn dry a wedding bouquet that will be a keepsake for you to cherish.

Things You'll Need

• Floral protective spray
• Silica gel
• Containers in a variety of sizes

Instructions

1. The Easiest Way to Dry a Wedding Bouquet

   • 1

     Remove any dangling stems or leaves that wilted during all the wedding festivities.

   • 2

     Find a location to hang your wedding bouquet that will be dark and dry. A closet is a great location as long as there's enough room to hang the bouquet where it will not be touching anything else. Another good location to hang your wedding bouquet is a bathroom as long as it's an extra room not being used. Hang the bouquet upside down with a sturdy ribbon or cord so that the bouquet can dry out without lights or sunlight to wash out the colors of the flowers.

   • 3

     Leave the bouquet in the dark and dry area for at least 4 or 5 days. If you can just continue to let it hang there for a couple of weeks is even better.

   • 4

     Spray the dried wedding bouquet lightly with a floral spray for dried flowers. This will seal and protect the dried flowers. Purchase the floral spray at a hobby or craft store in their floral department. Use unscented hairspray if you are not able to find or purchase the floral spray. Let this dry thoroughly.

   • 5

     Place your dried wedding bouquet on a stand, under a dome or in a keepsake display box. The dried flowers in the bouquet are fragile, so you will need to handle the bouquet with care.

   The More Complex Way to Dry a Wedding Bouquet

   • 6

     Snip the stems from the wedding bouquet that wilted or became too mushy to try to keep.

   • 7

     Take the wedding bouquet apart very carefully so that you do not damage any of the flowers. Unwrap or untie any sashes or ribbons holding the bouquet together. Take photos of the bouquet prior to taking it apart to remember how the flowers in the bouquet looked. You might want to take some notes while you are taking the bouquet apart.

   • 8

     Place each flower separately in a variety of containers, shallow bowls or tins that are half-filled with silica gel. The purpose of the silica gel is to take the moisture out of the flower while it preserves the shape and color. The silica gel is not a gel, but rather a sandy looking substance or a granular substance. Put the containers with the flowers out of any light or moisture for at least a week.

   • 9

     Remove the flowers from the silica gel and carefully lay them out on a counter surface. Arrange the flowers back into the wedding bouquet. This may be a bit difficult to do, so refer to your photos and notes to help you reassemble the dried wedding bouquet.

   • 10

     Spray the dried wedding bouquet with a floral spray for dried flowers. Use unscented hairspray if you do not have the floral spray.

   • 11

     Display or store your dried wedding bouquet how you wish.

Tips &- Warnings

• The colors of the flowers may fade some when dried as the moisture is removed from the flower.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding bouquet, dried wedding, dried wedding bouquet, floral spray, bouquet that, dried flowers, wedding bouquet that