Bridal Weight Loss Woes - Why Do Brides Find it Hard to Lose Weight?

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One of the times in which women desperately want to look their best is before a wedding. But brides find it very hard to lose weight. In fact, it's one of the worst times to start a diet plan.

But why is bridal weight loss so hard to achieve?

The first culprit are the brides themselves. Most women remember to begin to watch their weight too late, when the wedding is right around the corner leaving them too little time to really get any real results.

The second reason is that the period before a wedding is one of the most busy and stressful times in any woman's life. It's really hard to find the time and inclination to workout and diet properly.

However, not all is lost. If you're a soon-to-be bride, know that there's a lot you can do to lose weight fast for your wedding even if you just have a week or two before your big day.

There are a number of weight loss plans which can work wonders in a short time. One of them, the Wedding Day Diet, is especially made for brides to be.

Realize that although you can lose weight in a short time, it is better to start as soon as possible because the longer you have the more you can lose. If you want to be the most beautiful bride you can be, realize that this will take some work and determination on your part.

You're going to be in the spotlight and you need to look your best. So make sure you get to your wedding as fit and lean as possible.

To read more about losing weight for an event, click here: Wedding Day Diet

Eric Simkind writes on multiple subjects of interest including health and fitness. To read more about how to lose weight fast, click here: http://WorldofDiets.com

Mother of the Bride Gifts - Mother of the Groom Gifts

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Your wedding is one of the most memorable and meaningful days in your life. You have been dreaming of it for a lifetime. But, remember, so has your mom. As a mom, we look forward to the day our children get married. We want their wedding day to be a wonderful event. Remember to not forget to take time to not only thank your parents for the monetary contributions to your wedding but, more importantly, take time to thank them for helping you become the person you are today.

Your wedding day is certainly about you and your groom. But, it is also the appropriate time to thank those who have walked beside you your entire life. Whether it be your parents, your siblings, your grandparents or close friends, honor them at this time, with a special and meaningful, keepsake gift. Giving a gift to the mother of the bride or mother of the groom does not have to break the bank. It should be a gift from the heart. Below are just a few ideas of inexpensive ways to say thank you.

Keepsake Wedding Hankies

There are a number of different styles available. Some can be embroidered with a name or date. Others come with a special poem card. They are available for mother of the bride, mother of the groom, grandmother, and grandfather.

Keepsake Frames

Keepsake frames are great gifts to give to parents of the bride and groom. Find a frame that can be engraved or personalized with your names and wedding date. Insert a special photo of you and your mom or let her know she can insert a wedding photo in the frame. Some frames are available with engraved poems and they allow you to include a short message as well.

Mother Daughter Jewelry

Special keepsake jewelry is available that includes a heart-felt message. Some styles come in a set so that both you and your mom have a bracelet while others are just for mom. Mother Daughter jewelry items are available in many different price points so you are sure to find one that fits your budget.

Thank you Note

Write a thank you note to your mom or dad. Sometimes it is easier to write things down than to say them aloud. Why not give them a true gift from the heart and tell them in words just what their love really means to you. It is truly a gift that will be kept in a very special place, and treasured for years to come. Seeing a child get married is a very important day in the life of a parent. Be sure to honor your parents with a gift from the heart.

Visit http://www.abernook.com for unique gift ideas including keepsake wedding gifts.

Wedding Days Are Full of Emotional Brides and Grooms

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Wedding days are one of those special days that stay with you forever. Emotional brides and grooms are a part of any wedding day. Feelings overflow as the happy couple heads for the church altar.

Emotional brides and grooms often feel scared about the prospect of marriage and feel nervous about standing in the church saying their vows knowing all their family and friends are looking on.

The feelings start long before the actual ceremony. You can find emotional brides and grooms who get teary-eyed whenever a tuxedo commercial comes on or they see an ad for David's Bridal boutique.

For some of the emotional brides and grooms, the feelings they have can ruin the day because it can be too overwhelming. Some even suffer panic attacks at the thought of saying, "I do" in a crowded room.

Although you want to keep the happiness flowing and make it a day to remember, you have to know how to control those emotions that can pull you down when you least expect it.

If you feel anxiety or nervous on your big day, remember to take time to collect your thoughts and take deep breaths - something many emotional brides and grooms forget to do.

Controlling yourself can be difficult, but if you take the time to compose yourself in those moments when your heart skips a beat for reasons of fear instead of passion, you can truly make your wedding into the special day that you dreamed of.

You may be scared, you may feel anxious, but when you say, "I do" it will all go away as your love flows deep in your heart. And don't worry if the tears accompany your feelings - guests expect to see emotional brides and grooms at a wedding service.

Take the memories of your special day away with you and cherish them always, because this is a day of celebration of the love you have for your partner.

Visit http://www.totally-weddings.com/ for tips, resources, gift ideas, shopping and more to help you plan your wedding day. Also find out how to Cheat Proof Your Marriage with our top selling Ebook.
http://www.totally-weddings.com/Cheat-Proof-Your-Marriage/

Types of Wedding Cake

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The wedding cake has always been an important part of the reception, but these days it has taken on even greater significance. Brides are actually planning their entire weddings around the design of the cake. These are the types of cake and frosting that you are likely to find:

White cake: The most traditional wedding cake flavor; for more oomph, add a flavored filling between the layers, like raspberry buttercream or apricot preserves.

Chocolate cake: A crowd pleaser! Brides are getting more brave about serving chocolate cake. It can either be concealed under white frosting for a traditional appearance, or frosted in chocolate for a decadent treat. Chocolate is very popular for grooms' cakes.

Marble cake: Can't decide between white cake and chocolate cake? Then a marble cake is the answer.

Lemon cake: Tart and refreshing; try a lemon cake for a summer wedding. From personal observation, I should mention that women seem to like lemon flavored deserts much more than men, so make sure that your groom is okay with lemon before finalizing your order with the baker.

Carrot cake: A nice option for an autumn wedding. If you are hoping for the cream cheese frosting usually found on carrot cake, be aware that it is likely to be more cream colored than pure white.

Buttercream Frosting: The most popular frosting, buttercream is both light and rich at the same time. It requires refrigeration, however, so it is not a good choice for an outdoor wedding reception.

Fondant: This frosting is the one that you will often find on elaborate couture style cakes. Fondant is rolled into a sheet and then laid over the cake for a very smooth finish. It makes an excellent base for decorations, and holds up well in heat. Fondant is chosen more for looks than flavor; you might want another layer of more delicious frosting underneath it.

Royal Icing and Gum Paste: These are used to create the decorations on the cake. Royal icing is good for delicate decorations, like a monogram, and pliable gum paste is ideal for making exquisite frosting flowers.

Once you and your baker have determined the right type of cake for your wedding, it will be time to decide on decorations. Fresh flowers are always a beautiful option, and they are very affordable. You may need to coordinate the baker and the florist for the blooms. Another pretty idea is wide ribbons around the base of each tier. Satin or grosgrain ribbon works very well, or you can have the baker create frosting "ribbons".

From there, the designs get more and more elaborate. A very hot trend is to coordinate the cake to the bride's gown and wedding jewelry. You might see lace or embroidery replicated in frosting to mimic the pattern on the bridal gown. Another popular idea is to decorate the cake with crystals or faux pearls to tie in with the wedding jewelry. The fun thing about this type of design is that is is very personal, and will be a completely original design.

Prices of wedding cakes can run from the hundreds to the thousands. If you want a showpiece cake but have a limited budget, order a smaller tiered cake for display, and then have a sheet cake in the same flavor that can be sliced in the kitchen and served to your guests. No one will be the wiser.

Selecting your wedding cake will be easy once you know the basics about cakes. Of course, you will want to have an extensive cake tasting anyway, just because it is fun. For a sweet surprise, ask the baker if she will be able to create a tiny replica of your cake for your first anniversary. A great cake is too delicious to enjoy just once!

Laura helps brides with their wedding plans by offering advice on selecting bridesmaids gifts, reception ideas and other aspects of planning a wedding. Wedding jewelry can be as affordable as it is beautiful.

Runaway Brides, Jilting Grooms and Wedding Dresses

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Cold feet - these are two simple words that can mean plenty of things beyond their dictionary meanings. For a podiatrist, cold feet are cold sensations to the feet owing to poor circulation, nervous system disorders and low thyroid condition. For engaged couples, cold feet is trouble brewing on the horizon of marital bliss even before you can enter the wedded state. In short order, brides can say goodbye to their wedding dresses. Sad but true.

Just imagine being the runaway bride leaving your groom at the altar, waiting for nothing while the guests are left to wonder and wander. On the other side of the wedding jitters fence, imagine being the jilted bride waiting for your groom to come to his own wedding. ("Where could he have gone to this time?" you ask. You should have known that when he missed his final rehearsal dinner by becoming dead drunk, he probably will not attend your wedding. But that is digressing)

If you have been on both sides of the fence or you know many people who have been there and done that, here are perfectly logical suggestions to dispose of those dresses, maybe even make a few bucks along the way.

Sell On Auction Sites

Just as there are many jilted and jilting brides, there are also enchanted brides. You can sell wedding dresses through online auction sites like eBay, UBid Online Auctions, Amazon and Yahoo! Auctions where you can be as honest as you want or you can be as sly as you need to be. If you cannot let the whole world know of your dirty deed, you can always go to the thrift stores and sell your wedding dress for a discount.

Of course, you cannot expect to sell your wedding dress for its original value! Still, it certainly beats having it inside your closet and reminding you of your brush with disaster and of your tragedy, whatever is the case.

Donate to Charities

You might not make a buck but you can change somebody else's luck with your donation of wedding frock. (Not yours only, of course. You can include your friends' bridesmaid and bridal ensembles, too. That is, if they want to.)

For example, you can give your wedding dress to the Brides Against Breast Cancer/Making Memories Foundation. You will be contributing to a worthy cause from an unworthy affair, which is a good way as any to dispose of your wedding dress.

Recycle It into Something Else

If you are into arts and crafts, then you can always recycle, re-sew and reincarnate wedding dresses. After all, each and every part of your bridal ensemble can be put to good use from the cloth to the embroidery. You can turn it into pillowcases, doll dresses, handkerchiefs, photo album cover, small handbags, tablecloths and napkins, and even a shawl. Indeed, why give away a perfectly good piece of expensive cloth when you can use it yourself sans the fanfare?

Now, supposing you go the route of Maggie Carpenter (the title character of the movie "Runaway Bride"), you know what to do with all your wedding dresses to make it worth your while. Of course, you can always stomp on them, tear them to shreds, burn them to hell and throw them down a cliff never to be seen again, but then what good would that be?

For the perfect wedding favor and wedding invitations your guests and fiance cannot refuse, go to BestForBride.com today! And don't forget the wedding dresses that no groom will ever snub!

Etiquette For Brides Before the Wedding

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Etiquette is a guide for behavior, not a law. Use bridal etiquette as guide, do not adhere the rules blindly, as each family and situation is unique and apply your common sense whenever required.

Etiquette to register
Registries are a great way to let people know what sort of things you would like as wedding gifts. But gifts are not mandatory for the guests to bring. Never demand or ask any guests to give you a specific thing.

The maid of honor (bridesmaid) usually throws the bridal shower, which also includes the bridal shower themes. She can be the bride's relative or friend. If there is more than one bridal shower, each shower would have a different hostess.

Bridesmaid's etiquette dictates that the maid of honor has some important duties to perform such as-

1. Hosting a bridal shower
2. Attending all prenuptial parties
3. Helping the bride in the weeks of planning before the ceremony
4. Helping the bride to pack her luggage
5. Giving the bride moral support
6. Assisting the bride wherever she needs
7. Witness and sign the marriage certificate after ceremony.

The bridal shower guest list
Bridal etiquette says all those invited to the shower should be on the wedding guest list. It is a poor etiquette to invite someone to the shower and exclude her from the big day itself. The guest list should include-

1. Mother of the bride and groom
2. Grandmothers or great grandmothers of either side
3. Cousins, aunts
4. Bridesmaids
5. Friends of the bride and their family
6. Female colleagues of the bride

Etiquette to send an invitation
Each person invited should be sent with a separate invitation and it should be done about a month before the party. The invitation card should include-

# Bride's name
# Date and time of the bridal shower
# Address/venue
# Phone number of the hostess
# Map or direction to the exact location

You must take proper care regarding the invitation wordings.

Etiquette to play games
Playing games help guests to interact with each other. In fact, bridal shower games are great ways to let your guests get to know each other and know more about the bride and groom. It is usual to give small gifts for the winners of the games played at the party.

Etiquette to write a thank you card

A thank you card should always be handwritten.
Thank your friends for the parties and the showers that they have arranged for you.
Thank your guests for the gifts that you have received.
Write your new address on the thank you cards.

This thank you notes should be sent within one week of the ceremony. This is the only way of telling someone who has given you a gift of how much you appreciate it.

Finally, bridal etiquette means being sure to include the wedding party and the mothers of both bride and groom in shower in some way. Ask each person to take some responsibility to make the occasion a memorable one.

Lyn Adams is the publisher of the wedding resource magazine Orange County Brides. She has launched the online resource for Orange County Weddings that contain a list of all orange county wedding resources.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

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Weddings are without a doubt some of the most glamorous and memorable occasions. It is therefore not surprising to see brides go into a frenzy trying to get a beautiful and unique dress to wear on their wedding day. Most brides prefer to buy ready-made wedding dresses. However, there are those who want their wedding dresses to have a personal touch. Such brides often opt to make their own dresses. It is easier today for brides to design their own wedding dress as they are under no obligation to follow most rules regarding the color, design and trains. You can then choose to design your own wedding dress and then hand it over to a tailor to make or design it and make it yourself.

Design Your Wedding Dress Online -- The Style and Color
The first step a bride should take when designing her own wedding dress is to consider the style she wants be it elegant, traditional, modern, sexy or classy. The bride should then turn to the smaller details. She should pick the desired color and ensure that he colour goes well with her skin colour and hair. A bride can create the perfect wedding dress by getting different ideas from already existing ones. Brides can do this by visiting bridal shops and trying on different designs, colors and lengths to see which one would fit them best. It will also be an opportunity for them to find out the newest available trends.

Design Your Wedding Dress -- The Fabric & Stitching
After looking at the available designs and picking out details to incorporate into the dress, the brides should then go out to fabric stores or to the internet to get the fabric they will use to make their wedding dress. If one does not like natural fabrics that easily wrinkle, they should opt for synthetic fabrics.

Once you design your own wedding dress and the desired fabric has been picked, the work of stitching can now begin. It is a great idea to make a sample before embarking on the real dress to practice on making the dress. However, it is advisable that an experienced tailor be sort for the job to avoid any mishaps. To enhance the dress, one may use crystals, embroidery, lace, beads and so on.

Wedding Dress Design -- Dress Shape
When designing the dress, one should make sure that the dress complements their body shape. Mermaid shaped dresses are normally tight at the top but flare down at the bottom. A-line shaped dresses are usually narrower at the top, work well with most figures and disguise the bottom heavy ones. Sheath dresses hug the body and have defined waists. They usually look good on people who are well toned. A ball gown, which comes with a full skirt and a fitted bodice, is good for hiding the less flattering places in one's figure.

Weddings represent a significant occasion in the life of any human being. Being able to design your own wedding dress is the best way to add that personal touch to one of the most memorable events of your life. For most brides, this opportunity to express them creates a sense of satisfaction and allows them to explore their creativity.

Learn more about designing your wedding dress by clicking on the following link: http://www.designweddingdressonline.com/Design-My-Wedding-Dress-Online.html

For additional related topics covering wedding dresses and wedding dress design, please visit http://www.designweddingdressonline.com

Diana Lives for Brides

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A July 1 concert in London to honor what would have been Princess Diana's 46th
birthday was highlighted by her sons William and Harry and a good friend, Elton John.
A reported 63 thousands attended. Though gone almost 10 years, the beautiful Princess of
Wales has not been forgotten. Girls who were 8 when Diana had her car accident in 1997
and who were too young to understand her popularity are now at wedding age.

One would think the name Diana for baby girls would be popular. But the 100 top baby
names taken from the US Social Security Administration files does not list Diana. The top
name is Emily. The name Diana does not appear in iVillage's list of famous names.

She married on July 29, 1981. The royal wedding to Prince Charles of England was
billed as the wedding of the century. It was one of the first fully televised events and millions
of people around the world watched the carriage ride from Buckingham Palace to Westminster
Abby. Every girl wanted a Princess Diana dress and a Princess Diana wedding.

A North Carolina minister says sadly she did not do her wedding in the will of God. She
suffered unhappiness, misfortune, unfaithfulness and divorce. Then she lost her life in the car
accident in Paris. But, she lives on for Brides in her story that is now helping brides-to-be
to marry in the will of God and try to avoid unhappiness, misfortune, unfaithfulness and divorce.

They can click on a website and get information.

All persons connected with a wedding are invited to the website. It may take a family to get
that excited young woman married in the will of God. But it's most important she does. That
family may include the bride-to-be herself, her fiance', mother of the bride, mother of the
groom, grandparents and all her friends who want the marriage to turn out for the best. The
word can be passed on to the bride-to-be or the information given as a shower gift. Getting
married in the will of God seems today to be a family affair.

The author, Rev. Edmond Locklear, Jr., is the author of a number of self-help books, two novels and teacher aids. The website for brides-to-be and family and friends is http://www.doyourweddingright.com

Fashion For Mother of Bride

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A wedding is a very happy and happening occasion for everyone in the house. While the bride gets finicky about every detail from her dress to the dining table cloth, she mostly gets everyone's attention. So while the other members are helping out with the wedding, the mother and the father of the bride are mostly given secondary importance only to realise it on the wedding day.

While the father of the bride can don a suit or a sherwani he can plan his attire quite fast. But it is not that simple for the mother, as she has to get her fittings and the finesse. Don't worry you will not out-do your daughter, so get that fright out of your mind. Flip though some books from your stylist or get them off the shelf. You don't have to get the exact design. But you should be able to gauge what you want. A dress, skirt and blouse, trousers, suit or a gown.

A-line cut always flatter any figure. If you are on the heavy side then use bias cuts. This will cut your flaws and accentuate your assets. Use thick silk or sheath, or even brocades. Stay away from georgettes or skimpy materials that need lining.

If you are taller then avoid umbrella cuts and use deeper cuts to accentuate your height. Getting the skirt or the neck of the top emblazoned with sequins, studs and embroidery brings in class and beauty. And do all this you need to give the seamstress some time. So plan well in advance so that you get your dress easily and there is no haste about your dress.

Also the choice of colour is very important. That you are the lady of the house and the mother of the bride do not go in for bright dark colours. Like red, yellow, orange and other bright gaudy colours. Choose subtle shades; if you are dark then go for pista green, lemon yellow, gold, reddish pink or any other soft shade. If you are fair then you can try dark shades with shimmer and glitter. If you are in-between then do not go for too soft or too dark shades and mix it well with another colour.

Do not forget your accessories, they are very important. Right from what you put in your hair to the nail paint on your toe. So collect your stuff well in advance to look your best for one of the most important days in your life.

You can check out for latest fashionable dresses for mother of bride on smocked dresses and mother of bride dresses.

Mother of the Bride Gifts

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The mother of the bride is a very special part of a wedding. After all, she is the woman who raised a little girl and helped her to become a grown woman on the brink of starting a new life with her husband. The bride's mother is usually the one person who will be there throughout the whole wedding planning process, helping with decisions, suggestions, and chances are, with money. Thank your mom for all that she has done with a very special mother of the bride gift.

It is a very thoughtful gesture for the bride and groom to arrange for a bottle of fine Champagne to be chilling in the hotel rooms of their parents when they check in. That is a festive way to kick off the wedding weekend, and no doubt will be appreciated by both sets of parents. As wonderful as Champagne is though, you will probably still want to pick another, more personal gift for the mother of the bride.

One of the most personal gifts is jewelry. It would be very sweet of the bride to give her mother beautiful wedding jewelry as a thank you. The bride's mother will be delighted to receive a lovely new necklace or pair of earrings to wear as wedding jewelry. Pearls are always a timeless choice. For a fantastic twist on an old favorite, give your mom a stunning strand of black or multi colored pearls. If you think that your mother's outfit could use a little more pizazz, then give her the gift of handcrafted Swarovksi crystal jewelry.

Monogrammed items also make a great gift for moms. A handsome piece of luggage with her initials could be a good choice. Also consider sterling silver items, such as picture frames, that can be personalized. A frame is a great idea if you fill it with a great picture of the two of you together.

Mothers often cherish time spent with their daughters more than anything else in the world. Take a break from your hectic wedding planning to devote an afternoon or an evening to your mother. The bride could take her mom to a spa for some pre-wedding pampering, like a pedicure or a hot stone massage. Another nice idea would be to go to tea together in a fancy restaurant, or to take your mother someplace elegant for dinner, just the two of you.

A mother-daughter activity is the perfect time to give your mother of the bride gift. Be sure to include a sappy note about how much her love and support has meant to you over the years. If appropriate, the bride could also mention what wonderful role models her parents have been for how to have a good marriage. A sentimental note will mean a lot to your mother.

Being the mother of the bride is a special time. It is not always easy, as emotions can run high and money can run tight, but it is a time in the mother-daughter relationship unlike any other. Planning a wedding together can bring the pair closer together (assuming they are still speaking by the end!). Plan on showing your mother how much you appreciate her with a very special mother of the bride gift.

Finding the whole process of weddings and all the planning that goes into planning one, Laura writes about many of the considerations that brides have to deal with. Mother of the Bride gifts should be beautiful and personal.

Major Oversights Most Brides Make When Choosing Flowers

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When one thinks of weddings, one usually envisions a beautiful bride walking down the aisle with a lovely bouquet of carnations in her hand. Yes, flowers are as much a part of a wedding as the bride and groom themselves. Wedding flowers are expressions of love and have long been considered traditional symbols of holy matrimony. No wedding is complete without flowers and choosing the right kind for your wedding is a task upon itself. However, in the frantic, pre-wedding preparations rush, brides often end up choosing flowers for their wedding in a hurry; and the result is: blooms that clash violently with the wedding ambience.

The first trick is to remember that matching your wedding gown with your bouquet (or the overall look of your wedding) is a good idea as long as you don't carry the idea of coordination too far. A beautiful red gown with an exquisite bouquet of red French Tulips might just not be the right idea. Make sure that the wedding flowers you choose are in contrast to your gown, and don't take the limelight away from you. Allow your wedding flowers to actually compliment your wedding day radiance. For example, if your wedding gown is intricately embroidered or sequined then make sure that you carry simple flowers to enhance the effect of your overall appearance.

The second trick - and something that most brides forget to take into consideration - is making sure that the flowers you choose for your wedding suit the formality of the occasion. A beach wedding would demand flowers suited to the fun ambience, such as exotic orchids, whereas the elegant white Lily of the Valley may be suitable for a traditional church wedding.

The flowers you choose can speak volumes of your feelings and suitably deliver the message you want to give to your beloved. Each and every wedding flower symbolizes a certain emotion; what better way to light up the occasion then to do up your wedding with flowers that hold a special meaning for you? You can ask your wedding planner or check the internet for the special meaning each type of flower holds.
And before everyone - including that annoying aunt who just flew in - convinces you that forget-me-nots are just perfect and make your blue eyes light up and twinkle, please remember that it's your wedding and it's a good idea to choose your wedding flowers that appeal to you the most. Make this special wedding day the most memorable day of your life by choosing flowers that speak of your individual tastes and not what trends or traditions dictate.

Tidys Flowers wants to help you to fulfill your wedding dreams. It offers wedding flowers and bridal bouquets because this day should reflect you and your love for each other.

How to Pose a Bride and Groom

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Of all the pictures taken at a wedding, the one most important is the portrait of the bride and groom. Some wedding couples depend on a relative or a friend to take a few good photos for their album and others reserve a professional photographer to do the honors. This article is for both the real and wanna-be photographers at the wedding.

A good time to photograph the bride and groom is after the ceremony and before the reception. Ideal is an open lawn away from any building. Other photogenic locations are at the edge of a treed area, under an arcade or
at home in the backyard. Important is to choose an evenly lit background: one that does not contain light and dark areas. Place the couple in the shade at least thirty feet away from any background objects with their faces toward the main source of light.

Turn the bride thirty degrees away from the camera and fluff the train behind her so that only half of the train is visible from the camera position. Never pull the train around to the front of the bride since this is most unnatural and would never occur in real life. Pose the groom slightly facing the bride and have him offer his arm for her to pass her through. Make sure her ring is visible. The groom's outside hand can be in his pocket or touching the bride's hand. The bride should shift most of her weight to the foot furthest from the camera and the groom should have his weight evenly distributed on slightly spread feet. Never let his hand drop straight down at his side. The bride may hold her bouquet in her outside hand at a level below her waist with some daylight or background showing between her elbow and her waist. An alternate place for the bouquet is on the ground next to the groom's feet. Turn their faces toward the camera but not fully straight on, but at a slight angle toward each other. Their expressions should show their happiness, but not laughing.

Angles other than the view straight on without changing their positions often present another good composition for a portrait. Consider also a view from behind the couple, requesting them to turn their heads directly toward each other, giving the photographer a profile of their faces. A variety of shots are possible with this pose. A medium shot (at the knees) with their faces closer together and an even closer pose with the cheeks almost touching make wonderful portraits. Try having them look into each other's eyes with his arms around her. Natural light from the side is the most beautiful source as long as the reflector of some sort balances the light. Watch your cropping in the viewfinder carefully and leave some space over their heads. Pay attention to the position of the feet (no soles showing) and be sure only the sides of the bride's hands are presented to the camera. The groom's coat collar should fit snug to the neck.

A beautiful portrait of the bride and groom can be their most treasured reminder of the most important day in their lives. You can make it happen.

Comments Welcome.

Russian Mail Order Brides

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The collapse of the Soviet Union and the spread of the Internet have led to a plethora of Internet marriage agencies springing up. Some of these agencies specialize in providing a service -- Russian mail order brides. Though arranged marriages are an age-old concept, mail order brides come with an element of risk. The bride is isolated in a new foreign country, usually unable to speak the native language, and is often more vulnerable to abuse. The groom also faces the risk that his new foreign wife is just using him for acquiring a much sought after permanent residency status and money.

In the last decade, mail order brides have become a part of the American lexicon. Western men contact Russian women on the Internet and after selecting a prospective bride, either get married by proxy or marry immediately upon the bride's arrival in her new home.

The process of finding a Russian mail-order bride is relatively simple but not necessarily inexpensive. It is believed that there are over 600 agencies on the Internet that provide "introduction services" or matchmaking with Russian women.

A few mail-order agencies claim that they have a certain criteria for selecting women. The women are screened for any criminal background. Most importantly, they must be at least 18 years old. Once an agency has been selected, the prospective groom has several options depending on the agency. Some agencies post photographs of the ladies. The groom is charged for the address of the ladies and for additional services such as letter translations. Prices for providing addresses of prospective brides range from $10 to $15. Many agencies provide a catalog for a fee of $120. It is estimated that 50,000 to 60,000 catalogs are sold annually Grooms are then allowed to correspond or call the ladies of their choice in order to learn more about them.

The next step of the process is for the groom to meet prospective brides. A majority of agencies offer special tours of Russia for around $3000 -$5000. This could include a round-trip fare and a fortnight?s stay at a hotel along with interviews with the prospective brides.

As simple as it sounds, it is a daunting task for both the bride and groom. Cultural differences alone can be frustrating. Many Russian women find it very difficult to communicate in English. Some of them may also have children from previous marriages. The advantage for a groom is that he is blessed with a family but on the other hand, he has to deal with a bride that has been uprooted from her country.

Such marriages are becoming increasingly common in the US. Many social organizations are conducting a study on the developments post marriage. It is imperative to study these cross-cultural marriages to evaluate the success of the concept.

Russian Brides [http://www.i-RussianBrides.com] provides detailed information on Russian Brides, Russian Mail Order Brides, Online Russian Brides, Free Russian Brides and more. Russian Brides is affiliated with Latin Mail Order Brides.

Plus Size Bride Dresses

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Any woman big or small wants to look her best on the most important day of her life, her wedding day. This is the day when all women want to look perfect! And picking out that dress is the first step.

Being a plus size bride does not mean that you can't have that perfect gown. With a little advise on how to disguise the bad bits, whether it be chunky thighs, wobbly tum or your big butt, it can be done with a little thought. Your wedding, plus size or not, is the one day when all eyes will be on you and you want to feel confident about what you wear and how you look. There is a plus gown out there for all of us, and now with the internet the choice is so much better.

So which styles will suit you?

First you need to take a good long look at yourself in the mirror - dressed or undressed it's up to you as long as you can see your body shape. Pick out the parts of your body you hate and want to hide, be honest and no you can't hide it all! Have a little confidence now, and pick out the good bits as well. You may have a bit of a wobbly tum, but have great long legs or a nice bust either of which can draw attention away from your tummy if shown off in the right way. Once you know the positives and negatives, you can start to decide what style of dress will suit.

Plus size bride dresses come many different shapes and styles, just like their smaller counterparts.

If you have a Big Bust

The plus gown for you is a dress that draws attention away from the bust. Detailing such as a wider scoop neckline, halter neck style with a deep v or even strapless or off the shoulder styles will show off the shoulders and draw the eye away from your bosom. Styles to avoid are dresses which have high necklines. You think by covering your bust up will hide it, but by doing this you are just covering it with fabric and padding it out more so it looks bigger.

Don't forget that if you have a bigger bust then you are going to require to wear a bra or other undergarment. This is not a problem as good fitting strapless bras and corsets are available for the more voluptuous woman.

If you have Big Arms

This is one area that, unless you are extra-confident, most bigger women want to hide. This is not a problem. It does not mean that you have to wear long thick sleeves to hide them. What about a strapless or strappy dress with a bolero or shrug type top over it. There are some gorgeous lace jackets, long and short, that can be worn over simple plus size gowns. Or the other option is a simple wrap draped over the tops of the arms and hanging just below the shoulders. This has the effect of covering those wobbly upper arms whilst still staying uncovered and sexy around the shoulders. Especially good if you are planning to get married during the summer or somewhere warm.

If you have a Big Tummy

Empire cut or Princess line dresses will disguise a tummy by falling from directly under the bust. This cinches in the body at its narrowest point. Ensure you have the correct neckline however, otherwise it can draw attention to chest making it appear larger.

If you have a Big Butt and, or Thighs

Avoid any dresses that are bias cut as this will cling to every bump and lump especially around the backside and thigh area. A dress with a halter neck, strapless or spaghetti strap will draw attention up away from your butt area. If choosing a straighter shaped dress, then a dress with a split will slice up the lower body, slimming and lengthening it. It's a bit like the vertical stripe that draws the eye up and down rather than crosswise.

These are just a few points to think about before selecting the perfect plus size bride dresses. Don't forget to think about underwear, shoes and accessories.

Sue McKenzie writes a variety of articles on fashion issues concerning plus size women. For more information take a look at Bride Dresses Plus Size

Fall Weddings - Autumn Theme Wedding Ideas For Brides and Grooms - Revised

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Autumn, what a romantic, wonderful time to get married! Whether you want your autumn wedding to be very formal, most casual or somewhere in between, you have an enormous variety of possibilities. It is harvest time. The summer heat is gone. Yet the days are still warm and sunny. The leaves are turning into an incredible array of colors and as they fall off the trees, create a soft, lush colorful carpet. Halloween and Thanksgiving are here and can serve as wedding themes or be incorporated for a most unique personalized fall theme wedding. Can you see the possibilities? So, put on your thinking cap and get creative.

Following are ideas to help you plan a fall wedding.

WEDDING LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Following are traditional and not so traditional locations that will enhance your autumn wedding and make it unique and special. Picture your wedding at a:

Park

Bed and Breakfast

Country Inn

Winery

Ranch or on a farm,

Barn

Gazebo

Open Field

Orchard

Nature Preserve

Botanical Garden or in a private Garden

Wooded area

Riverbank or Lakeside

Or anywhere where nature presents its glorious backdrop.

ATTIRE

Bride and her attendants

Fall weather is unpredictable. It may get chilly so, consider heavier fabrics and at least some sleeve for the gown and dresses or top them with matching boleros, stoles or shawls that can, but do not have to be worn. The wedding gown can be white, ivory, champagne or gold. The gown and or veil may show embroidered leaf motif or dainty gold embroidery.

Bridesmaids may wear either the same color or to really represent the autumn theme, have each bridesmaid represent a different fall color. See Fall Colors List. The bride may wish to wear a fall theme garter and carry a matching hankie.
Bridesmaids and flower girl will look great adorning garlands of fall flowers and leaves.

The groom and his attendants

To reflect the season, the men and boys could wear tan, beige and brown attire instead of the white, black or dark blue. Their ties should be of fall colors matching the bridesmaids dresses and their boutonnière should be a fall flower.

FALL COLORS

white, ivory, champagne, muted gold, tan, beige, various browns, hunter green, burnt orange, rust red, deep red, burgundy, cranberry, wine, navy blue, sky blue, eggplant purple, pewter, silver, pale yellow, pumpkin and orange.

INVITATIONS AND STATIONERY

Accent your invitations and wedding stationery with your chosen fall color. If you print your own, you may add fall graphics such as leaves, acorns, fall flowers, seasonal fruit, or a horn of plenty. If you purchase fall theme print your own invitations, fall theme is available. Cut the place cards to look like a fall theme item leaves, pumpkin, turkey siluettes etc...

FLOWERS

Chrysanthemums, roses, daisies, dahlias, lilies, yarrow, orchids, hydrangeas, sunflowers, baby breath, fall leaves, tallow berries, natural or dried wheat.

CEREMONY

Decorate the ceremony site with fall flowers.

Instead of aisle runners spread fall color real or fake leaves, in the center aisle. If your ceremony location does not allow spreading petals or leaves directly on the floor, glue leaves on aisle runners. This is a great activity for kids as the love to glue and can be creative. So, if you can engage kids, whether they are yours or not, they will be proud to help with your wedding.

Instead of rose petals, fill the flower basket with colorful fall leaves.

Make pew bows from ribbons in your wedding colors and embellish them with fall silk flowers, leaves, fruit, wheat, Indian corn etc...

RECEPTION

General

Use mini pumpkins, gourds, berrirs, Indian corn, apples, grapes, wheat , bales of hay and leaves foe centerpieces, favors and decorations.

Tables

Instead of numbering your tables, name them. For example:
Fall, Autumn, Acorn, Horn of plenty, Cornucopia, Maple, Oak, Apple, Pear, Pumpkin, Cranberry etc...

To add more interest and make it easier to remember give your table addresses. Just add Circle or Square depending on the shape of your tables and you send your guests to Fall Circle or Autumn Square etc...

Use fall color linens.

Ideas for Centerpieces

Before placing a centerpiece, you may strew fall leaves and or wheat on the reception tables and on the cake tale.

Place A Horn of plenty, a basket or a hollowed pumpkin lined with fall leaves or popcorn and filled with fall fruit, berries, nuts, gourds, mini-pumpkins and-or acorns as your centerpiece.

Pumpkin Ice Sculpture

Carve out the inside of pumpkins and place candles in them. If you plan a buffet, you may line hollowed pumpkins with foil and using them as serving dishes.

Fall floral arrangements in a straw basket or hollowed pumpkin.

Place 3 or 4 fall color candles of various sizes in hurricane lamps. The candles may be cinnamon, cranberry, spice or apple scented.

Place leaf or pumpkin shaped floating candles in a bowl, set it on a layer of fall leaves or straw.

Paint or spray mini pumpkins and gourds and group them together.

A real plant with real blooming flowers makes a great gift for guests. Chrysanthemums of many colors are pretty, very reasonably prices and you can get them everywhere; Wal Mart, Home Depot, Lowes, etc...

Display b bales of hay

If you have children, let them participate. Ask them to string cranberries, candies and popcorn and add them to your table decorations.

Display balloons in fall colors

Large chocolate or ice sculpture Turkeys

Favors

Fruit shaped candles

Favor boxes or bags filled with candy corn

Caramel Apples

The Perfect Pear items

Garden in a bag or box

Fall theme cookies

Fall theme chocolates

Fall theme lollypops

Maple candies

Reception Decorations

Fall theme ribbons and bows, garlands, paper lanterns or luminaries with amber light bulbs, balloons, chains of stringed popcorn, cranberries, candies, paper chains, bales of hay, ivy, garlands etc...

Accent the doorways and tables with tulle and ribbons in your wedding colors. Adhere leaves and silk flowers for inexpensive, elegant displays.

Cake

Decorate your cake with leaves, fall flowers, mini pumpkins, mini apples, marzipan fruit etc...

Flavors: Spice cake, pumpkin cake, dark chocolate cake, nut cake.

Food items you may wish to consider

Nuts

DRINKS: Apple cider, Sparkling cider, you may add: for adults, port or brandy to the cider and for the kids cinnamon sticks. Wine is very popular for fall weddings both as beverage and as part of a centerpiece..

MAIN DISHES especially if close to Thanksgiving: Turkey, stuffing, corn, potatoes, cranberry sauce etc...

DESSERTS: Pumpkin pie, Apple pie, Pecan pie

HALLOWEEN WEDDINGS

Wedding colors white black and orange

Treat or trick bag for bridal purse and or as guest favors

Costumes or masks

Jack O'lantern ice sculpture or actual pumpkin as centerpiece

Jack O'lantern favors

DO NOT display ghosts at your wedding. You do not want to start your life together with "ghosts in your closet".

FUN IDEAS

Hay rides, Horse and Buggy rides, blowing soap bubbles, Harvest the rewards of your Autumn Theme Wedding planning and have a super event.

Nily Glaser, the CEO of A-wedding Day at: http://www.a-weddingday.com She writes important articles, and has presented workshops for wedding professionals all over the USA.
To read more of her articles CLICK HERE. Her web site is very popular for its discount wedding gifts, bridal accessories, print your own invitations, favors and the very unique items offered including the exclusive line of wedding Accessories By Nily.

Indian Brides or Grooms - New Trend for Searching

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Are these online matrimonial websites useful? What the answer come in your mind? Useful or not! In my eye these are useful because we don't have to go here and there. Just sign up on these matrimony websites and find your life partner. There are lots of reasons why we use these websites.

Firstly, without going any where we can access a heavy database of brides and grooms.
Secondly, we don't need to go to marriage agent. Marriage agents in small city and some metropolitan cities play a very important role in marriage. They take commission from both sides and take both the parties close. Not these two only there are lots of reasons we can avoid by using these websites like:

1. No need to go to marriage bureaus.

2. We can save money which we spend for advertising in local newspaper.

3. Save money which we spend in local society like GEETA BHAVAN in many cities. Etc.

This is not the end we can take more much benefits of online matrimony websites to find indian brides or grooms or any where in world. It has tremendously expanded the reach of every marriageable individual by exposing him/her to the millions of eligible Indians who visit these sites. Increasingly, many individuals and families spend their valuable time online searching for the perfect partner for themselves or their loved ones.

It is interesting to see that these sites are visited by conservative parents, relatives; who believe in the sanctity of arranged marriages and also by those for whom falling in love is the way to go. There are many wedding and wedding related sites on the net which understand the focus of the new age matrimonial net surfers and offer them several attractive services.

These kinds of sites have made it possible to find a partner, match the horoscopes, book a marriage hall and then do all the wedding shopping online. Then why we are taking so much tension for our children's marriage. Just go to bed and take a nap.

To know more about punjabi matrimonials and buddhist matrimonials visit shubhbarat.com

Bridal Bouquets for Creative Brides

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Your wedding should reflect your personality. Are you always the center of attention? Do people give you strange looks because you are one of those creative types? If that is the case, your wedding should be different too!

Every article, every book, even every piece of advice from Aunt Mary or mom is for the traditional bride; but what about the rest of you? Are you an actress who treats your wedding as a performance? Or, are you the artist with a baby- not a human one, but your work of art? The puppeteer who includes her puppets on the guest list? (Ok, I'm kidding about the last one- you need a doctor) Read on, this is for you.

As all brides know, it is all about the dress. It is all about one other tiny thing, too. What other detail besides your beautiful face and dress show up in your photographs forever?
The bridal bouquet!

Here are a few bridal bouquet ideas to make your wedding unique:

The Hollywood Starlet bridal bouquet

Who doesn't love anything embellished with Swarovski crystals! Attach these beautiful crystals to the petals of your flowers for a snazzy look. This alternative is most affective with a simple bridal gown with very little detail.

Starlight Star bright first star I see tonight... bridal bouquet

If you are having an evening candlelight ceremony: Arrange a string of lights in your bridal bouquet. (And you thought you could only use your Christmas lights once a year?) Adding the lights will pull together the whole candlelight theme and attract more attention to you!

One in a Million bridal bouquet

Let your guests know you are his "one in a million" with this special bouquet. This bouquet consists of one single red rose amidst all white roses. Share the message of your love story. White roses represent purity, and red roses stand for love. Convey how "true love waits".

Pick one of these bouquets and you will give guests something to talk about... at your baby shower! Oh, and the best part? Knowing how much this will aggravate your frazzled Aunt Sally, who is always telling your mom you need a normal job!

Krissy Lanni is a freelance writer who also designs unique handbags for "Brides to be".

Wedding Reception Food Ideas That Stretch Your Budget : How To Self-Cater Fancy Appetizers

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Wedding reception foods do not have to be expensive. The ideas for stretching a small wedding budget are as unlimited as the imagination!

Any bride can have fancy appetizers at her wedding reception.

So what is the secret?

How can a bride with a tiny budget have fancy appetizers? The secret to having fancy appetizers on a small budget can be found in the freezer of a smart, budget-conscious bride months before her wedding day.

By starting months in advance and devoting one morning, afternoon, or evening a week to baking freezable appetizers, the budget-conscious bride can amass a delicious collection of appetizers for her wedding reception.

Delicious savory spanokopita, tiropita, miniature quiches, bruschetta, baby crab cakes, tea breads, mexican wedding cakes... the list is unlimited!

Yes, you truly can have the food you want at your wedding reception! If you are willing to think outside the box, tie an apron on yourself once a week in the months preceeding your wedding day, and ask for some help from family and friends you will be able to have the food you want at your wedding reception.

Having the dream wedding foods you want at your wedding reception is not something that is only available to some brides! Every bride can indeed have a wedding menu that delights the taste buds.

Maybe you are thinking "I want lobster or surf and turf." And you are thinking there is no way that you can afford lobster and filet mignon.

I ran into this situation hundreds and hundreds of times as a caterer. I can tell you that every single time I was able to come up with a creative and affordable solution that fit the bride's budget.

Even though the wedding reception budget did not allow for lobster tails for each guest, it did allow for a delicious lobster sauce to be served with a more economical, yet delicious dish. While the wedding reception budget did not allow for 8 oz. of filet mignon for each guest, perhaps it allowed for a delightful appetizer that incorporated a tender beef morsel into a flaky phyllo pastry. Again, I want to reiterate that the creative solutions for your wedding reception are truly unlimited. If you are willing to think outside the box, tie on an apron once a week, and ask for help - the solutions will be provided to you.

© 2006 Kathi Dameron, Kathi Dameron and Associates

Note To Publishers: You are invited to share this article through your ezine, website or print publication provided you publish this article in its entirety and include the copyright statement, bio information, active website links and contact information for Kathi Dameron and Associates as provided in the resource section at the bottom of the article.

Abundant Blessings!

Kathi Dameron

Wedding Reception Teleseminars For Brides

Learn How To Self-Cater or Semi-Cater Your Own Wedding Reception

http://www.kathidameron.com 850-422-3599

Kathi Dameron teaches brides-to-be how to create beautiful and affordable wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons and other festive soirees that pop with personality and panache.

Today, Kathi shares her wedding reception expertise that she gained during her tenure as the owner, chef, and event designer of Canopy Rose Catering, a high end catering and special event company that was located in Tallahassee, Florida. Brides and other interested individuals who want to learn the secrets to creating a dream wedding on any budget can attend Kathi's Wedding Reception Teleseminars.

Brides can learn more about attending these teleseminars from the comfort of their own home by visiting http://www.kathidameron.com or contacting Kathi Dameron at 850-422-3599

Bridesmaid Dresses for a Beach Wedding

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The perfect wedding is all about the perfect dress or gowns, looking good and sexy are every woman's dream especially on her ''wedding day''. Bridal gowns are available in different colors and sizes to compliment your personality. . The bridal gown you select for your wedding will probably be the most significant style decision you will have to make in your life.

Beach weddings are enormously beautiful but nature does give an element of insecurity. It's no surprise that beach weddings are becoming more and more popular. Beach Weddings also offers a beautiful ceremony for renewing your vows. When a wedding takes place on the beach, it is likely that the weather will be warm and dry. Brides with beach weddings in the past have worn anything from a white bathing suit and sarong to a full-blown princess style wedding gown with all the bridal trimmings. Most of the bridesmaid dresses out there were too formal and just too much for the beach.

When purchasing a wedding gown for the beach, there are a few things to keep in mind. Like any wedding, you get what is within your budget. This is when it would be a good idea to choose a wedding gown that is above the ankles. Also, if the weather is going to be very warm you may want to get a wedding gown that is made of light, thin material. Of course there are people who decide to have very traditional looking dresses even when the wedding is on the beach. The classic beach wedding dress is cool, casual, and relaxed, yet sexy and beautiful.

Beach wedding dresses tend to be much simpler and no-frills affairs given the surroundings, that is why some brides prefer not to spend too much on designer dresses. Beach wedding dresses have to lightweight, comfortable (no air conditioning out there) and accentuate your beach wedding theme. Beach wedding dresses should be relatively informal, but they can still look like real wedding dresses. But finding the perfect beach wedding dress can pose some challenge

Florida's beaches are the best exotic weddings locations on earth. A Florida beach wedding is a stress-free and romantic way to kick off your new life with the person of your dreams. The unique setting of a Florida beach wedding opens up possibilities when it comes to the clothing worn by the bride and the rest of the wedding party. . A dress made from a light material that covers your shoulders is a good choice, keeping you cool while protecting you from sun exposure during your Florida beach wedding. Choosing the Right Bridal Party Attire for your Florida Beach Wedding is same standards for choosing a bridal gown for a Florida beach wedding apply for bridesmaids' dresses as well.

Are you looking for bridesmaid dresses for a beach wedding? Order your bridal dress and gowns now at very affordable prices from a wide range of collection in different style and cut in www.FashionGalleryLive.com All these bridal dresses are elegant, sexy and stylish made for today's bride who loves to look good and sexy.

M. Ali Shodiqin, ST, M.MT is environmental observer and professional in the field of industrial management and ecommerce.

Wedding Charms For the Brides to Be - Ruby Pendants

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"I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels." ~ Bible quotes

Ruby as a corundum is very fiery and passionate gemstone. Cherished since centuries, this real king-like gemstone is actually favored by all. Especially brides'-to-be, feel greatly about this precious gemstone. This much coveted ruddy gemstone is one of the accessories which newlyweds too, find appealing. Ruby pendants as solitaire or teamed with diamonds, make a perfect choice to follow as a trend.

Weddings become incomplete if most important person of the event looks incomplete or not decked up impressively. Making it much simpler, the bride has to appear most distinguished amidst guests.

Bride is the center of attraction till the wedding is complete. She is being showered with every kind of gifts and offerings from her friends and relatives. Nevertheless, the top slot is filled with jewelry, especially crimson shaded ruby pendants.

This birthstone for July born, ruby, as a hot sensuous gemstone is something which exactly she would want. Angara has the same exquisite collection of lovely and regal ruby pedants to cater to customers.

Exclusive ruby pendants in mesmerizing cuts allure. Round brilliant cut in modern times is the choicest one. Since this cut exudes much light reflection through the top of the stone.

Solitaire pendants in white gold with ruby, give interesting and admiring impressions on the mind that uplifts mood. This results with happy pouts most of the time. Believably, various cultures around the world say so, that ruby is trusted to generate flawlessness into a person's character and heal wounds faster than medicines.

Trust this stone as a charmer which would look elegant and captivating around her neck. In addition, other fancier cuts like heart, oval, pear, trillion, and emerald are available too as great options to try and choose.

All these cut ruby are assorted into delightful designs like heart ruby and diamond dangling pendant in white gold, round ruby and diamond butterfly pendant in yellow gold or, ruby and diamond lower pendant in white gold. These are some versatile style statements which suit all occasions.

Bring home the blushing extravaganza for would-be brides' by buying such comfortable and aristocratic precious ruby pendants.

Ruby Pendants, Ruby Earring and Ruby Ring

Bride's Attire Checklist

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Here's a Checklist of items to make sure you have ready to wear on your Wedding Day.

Wedding Gown- This will be what everyone ooh's and ahh's over, and the centerpiece of your outfit. Everything else will complement the dress. Decide whether you want formal or more casual, traditional white or ivory, or something modern with a bit of color.

Veil- There are many styles to choose from. Find a length and style that matches your dress style. If your dress has a splash of color, you can find a veil with a matching color trim.

Blusher- This is the part of the veil that covers your face as you walk up the aisle. Not everybody uses these now, but it's a great traditional look. This might be part of the veil, or it might be a second veil that's placed in your hair in front of the longer one.

Headpiece- This is your chance to wear a tiara. Find one you love.

Hair Pins (if needed)- Fancy hairpins can add a lot to your look. Find some with pearls, or ones that match your dress or just your personality. If everyone knows how much you love butterflies, why not have a few small silver butterflies worked into your hairdo.

Jewelry- Your groom may give you a gift of jewelry, so keep that in mind. Tell him ahead of time what you are planning on wearing. Pearls are a classic choice, but go as fancy or as simple as you like.

Gloves- If you choose to wear them, elbow-length white gloves are very classy.

Shoes- Make sure you can walk in your shoes. I've seen brides in white flip flops- I think that's a great idea. Make sure you wear your shoes at your dress fitting. They're going to be mostly covered by your dress, so don't stress too much about these. You're going to be standing a lot on the big day, dancing, walking around. You don't want terrible blisters for your honeymoon.

Wrap or Coat for winter months- A white velvet cape would be lovely, or a white faux fur wrap.

Small Handbag- Keep your essentials in here, such as lipstick, breath mints. You probably won't carry this for most of the day, but it is nice to have.

Petticoat/Slip- This is going to vary with the type of dress you have, but you will want something to go under the dress. The petticoat can add a lot of fullness to the skirt.

Bra/Lingerie- This is another thing to make sure you have with you for your dress fittings. Something supportive that doesn't peek out of the dress, that doesn't slip or fall, and that you can breathe in.

Hosiery- Don't forget to get some nice quality hose.

Garter- Don't forget to buy a garter if you wish to do a garter toss at the reception.

This is a good general checklist. Your needs may vary, but these are the basics of bridal attire.

-Minnie

Minnie is a Wedding Advice guru specializing in advice for the Modern Bride. Her articles can be read daily at Modern Wedding Advice- http://navillus99.blogspot.com Modern Wedding Advice is now available at http://www.modernweddingadvice.com

Plus Size Mother of the Bride and Groom Dresses

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In my years of experience dealing with customers who browse online, their dilemma is finding a lovely mother of the bride dress to wear on their full figures. They lament that the dresses out there are either too flamboyant and revealing, or too matronly looking and make them look older than they feel.

Here are some guidelines for the plus size mother of the bride or groom to look becoming on their daughter or son's wedding, yet not sacrificing good taste and comfort while wearing their chosen dress.

Helpful suggestions:

1. Have an idea about fabrics, their textures, and quality. Every good clothing website will state the type of fabric used on the description summary of the dress. Mother of the bride dresses are usually made of synthetic fabrics nowadays, due to lower costs and their ability to be wrinkle-free. Remember that special occasion dresses are tailored, have lining, and are generally not stretchy like casual wear.

2. Every woman must have an idea of which colors looks good on them. Pinks may look great on the catalog models but do absolutely nothing for you. Discuss with the bride on the colors of the wedding and decide on the color variation that becomes you.

3. A mother of the bride who is well-proportioned or of an hourglass figure, can wear a more fitted style. Just remember to put on that body shaper or corset as this can work wonders for any figure whether it is slim or fuller.

4. If you are NOT of an hourglass figure, know whether you are bustier or more hippy. It is always best to find a dress that will fit the widest part of your body and then get the rest professionally tailored down to fit you. Remember--even skinny models have dresses tailored to fit their bodies for the photography session.

5. Browse online stores for a myriad of plus size mother of the bride gowns. They carry the latest styles and if they do not have your size in stock, they can surely special order one for you. Remember that every manufacturer size their dresses differently, especially special occasion dresses. So, it is helpful if you know what your body measurements are before you shop and then purchase online.

6. Know your figure type. If you are hip heavy, the A-line styles are definitely for you. If you are busty, stay away from clingy fabrics and low bodices that accentuate your fullness. Jackets whether long or the shorter bolero styles, always manage to hide a flaws like heavier arms. Or have thought about a snazzy shawl to wear over your shoulders?

7. Do not allow your daughter or daughter in-law to dictate which style she wants you wear. This could be potentially upsetting for you. Only you will know which styles and colors flatter you. Negotiation and compromise are best for both parties, achieving a better outcome, and no hurt feelings.

7. Golden word--TAILORING! Do not wear dresses that are too large for you as they make you look heavier and this is not what you want. You will look slimmer if a dress is customized for you. Invest in professional tailoring.

8. Give ample time--at least 4 months--before the wedding to find a plus size mother's dress. Do not make the common mistake of trying to lose those few extra pounds before the wedding and holding off buying your dress until then. You will be surprised that there are not too many physical shops out there that carry the style you want in a plus size. You may have to shop online and if so, need to allow time for alterations and exchanges, if any.

Author: Author: Audrey Cheong is the owner of an online bridal store specializing in mother of the bride dresses in petite, missy, and plus sizes. Please visit her website http://www.audreysmotherofthebride.com for great selections and reasonable prices. Specializing in plus sizes.

DIY Wedding Makeup For Brides

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If you are looking for a way to cut costs, doing your own makeup can be a great way to can save you lots of money. Here are some tips for achieving a professional look on your own.

Go get a makeup consultation.

Most department stores have trained makeup artists who will give you a makeup lesson with a product purchase. This kills two birds with one stone. You can get the makeup you need and a professional demonstration of the product.

Here are some more tips on achieving a perfect look on your wedding day.

Start with clean, moisturized skin.

· Be sure your moisturizer and foundation have an SPF of at least 15 to protect you in the sun.

Use concealer and foundation to create flawless skin.

· Start with concealer (cream works best). Apply it under your eyes and to any red or dark spots to even your skin tone.

· Use a foundation that matches your skin tone exactly. Apply sparingly. Too much foundation can highlight skin imperfections. Apply to your forehead, cheeks, nose and chin, and then blend upward and outward.

Have perfectly groomed brows.

· Don't pluck or wax the day of your wedding. Do this a few days to a week before the wedding to avoid irritation and redness.

· Use a pencil the same shade as your brows to fill in gaps and to create a defined look. Use small, light strokes when applying brow liner.

· Tame wild brows with clear mascara.

Define your eyes

· Line your eyes along the lash line with a dark-colored liner. Black or charcoal smudged along the top lashes is a great look. Turn the point of your liner up at the corners to really open them up.

· For shadow, use three shades in coordinating colors: light, medium and deep. Use the light color on your brow bone and the inside corner of your eye. Put the medium color in the crease and along the lid. Use the darker color on the outside third of your lid to make eyes really pop.

· Use a thickening or lengthening mascara in a waterproof formula to really define lashes. Add fake lashes for real drama. Be sure to practice before your wedding day.

Create a soft glow.

· Gain that blushing bride look with a large blush brush. Smile a big, goofy smile to define the apples of your cheeks. Sweep blush upward into your hairline.

· Sweep a soft layer of bronzer across the spots where the sun naturally hits you: cheeks, forehead, bridge of your nose, and chin.

Create soft, luscious lips.

· Use a stay-put formula with a gloss for long-lasting lips.

· First define lips with a pencil that matches your lipstick shade exactly.

· Top with the lip color. Let set for time specified.

· Add gloss.

· For real staying power, purchase a lipstick sealant. This will make your lipstick last much longer.

· Don't go too extreme in color. Define your lips with a natural color like berry or nude that complements your skin tone.

Finish it off.

· Add some translucent powder to your entire face (excluding your lips and lashes) to lock in the look.

Touch up tips:

· Keep some shine control papers handy. Press them on your face to remove excess oil. Don't pile on powder. It will cake.

· Touch up gloss periodically through your reception to keep lips moist and pretty for pictures.

Ashley Rader is the owner of Moments of Elegance, an online wedding boutique specializing in wedding party favors and a huge collection of bridal jewelry that will truly make your event unforgettable. Event planners can receive 10% off their order with coupon code: saveonfavors10.

Wedding Planning For the "Anti-Bride"

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There is a stereotype that every woman has been waiting her whole life to get engaged and become a bride. Sure, this is the fantasy of many young girls, but it is also true that not every woman is into the whole "bride" thing. But just because you are an "anti-bride" does not mean that you will not want to have a great wedding.

So what is an anti-bride? She is the one who does not flip through bridal magazines at the newsstand, could not care less about the subtle distinctions between ecru and eggshell, and is not about to promise to "obey" anyone. Above all, the anti-bride cannot imagine wearing a big poufy dress, cathedral length veil, and sparkly crown. In other words, she is not into the "princess for a day" fantasy.

If you become engaged and come to realize as Carrie Bradshaw once said in Sex and the City that you are "missing the bride gene", you may indeed be an anti-bride. Although you may feel that you are surrounded by people pushing you into a nightmare of tulle, ice sculptures shaped like swans, and other things that make you hyperventilate, do not panic: you are not alone. There are, in fact, plenty of other women out there just like you, anti-brides who want to have a great wedding, but on their own terms.

The key to being a happy anti-bride is to be true to yourself. So if your mother tries to push you into the wedding of her dreams, or your co-workers just don't understand why you would wear a red wedding gown, be prepared to stand your gown. Chances are that you have been doing this most of your adult life, anyway.

I once knew a bride who lived a completely "off the grid" lifestyle. She and her fiance lived in a cabin in the woods without electricity (by choice) and grew much of their own food. For her wedding, a big satin ball gown would have felt absolutely ridiculous, and so she selected a charming cotton lace vintage gown from the turn of the century. Her mother was the sort of person who was constantly giving her things like irons and electric carving knives (for a vegetarian with no electricity, remember!) and just could not understand why the bride wasn't planning a bridal registry that would have filled her tiny cabin with bone china and imported crystal.

There came a point when the bride looked her mother in the eye and said, "Remember me, I'm your daughter Susan!". In other words, I am not you and I am not my sister who lives in Long Island and drives a Hummer. Her mother never understood, but they did at least come to a truce for the rest of the wedding planning.

If you are an anti-bride, your good friends can also lend you a lot of support as you plan your ideal wedding. They will be the ones who back your decision to wear the wedding gown of your choosing, no matter what anyone else thinks of it. They will also be the ones who will keep your spirits high even on those days when the whole wedding thing is driving you nuts.

Be sure to acknowledge them with special bridesmaid gifts. Something unique that suits their individual personalities is ideal. If you are an anti-bride, the chances are that you will only be having a couple of your closest friends as attendants (instead of a platoon of girls dressed identically in aqua chiffon), so it gives you the freedom to customize your bridesmaid gifts for each of your friends.

The good news for anti-brides is that weddings are all about personal expression these days. There are tons of organic caterers, creative seamstresses, and others out there to help you plan a wedding that truly reflects who you are. Bride or anti-bride, that is really all that most women want from their wedding in the end (other than the groom, of course!).

Look to Bridget for advice on planning your wedding. Check out how we can help with your bridesmaids jewelry at SilverlandJewelry.com. Bridesmaid gifts are a wonderful way for the bride to show her appreciation for her friends.

The Father Of The Bride Speech - Time To Sing Your Daughter's Praise

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The day when you give your daughter away in marriage is big one in any father's life, and it may seem a little unfair that you have to combine all the responsibilities that go with it with an experience in public speaking as well! Giving a speech as the father of the bride is one of the highlights of the wedding party, and with everyone eager to hear what you have to say, you'll find that this is a great opportunity for you to honor your daughter and her choice of a life partner.

Start by introducing yourself and thank everyone for showing up. This is a good way to make everyone comfortable and to let them know where you're speaking from. Don't worry about needing to be funny or about entertaining people, and don't worry about making your speech too long. A speech that is only a few minutes long is ideal.

When looking for good material for the body of your speech, think about your daughter. Reflect on where she is in her life at this moment, and talk about the steps she has taken to get there. This is a great time to share some stories about her youth, or about the relationship that the two of you have shared. Let everyone know how proud you are of her. Remember that you shouldn't embarrass her, this is still her day and you want her to enjoy it.

Also speak about her romantic choice. Talk about how she first introduced the two of you and what your first impression of her partner was. Relate your hopes for them and make sure that it is obvious that this is a union that you support. In many ways, your relationship with your daughter will be on display, so make sure that everyone knows how proud you are of her choice and of her decisions.

You may also want to give the newlyweds a few words of advice at this point. This is definitely a part of the speech that can go on too long, so make sure that you keep it short. Talk a little bit about the decisions you made, and what you wish you had known when you were their age. Be sincere; this is something that your daughter and her partner will remember for the rest of their lives, so make it count.

It might be a little difficult to know how to end a speech; this can be awkward even for experienced speech givers, but you'll find that as the father of the bride, you have an easy out. All you need to do is present the bride and the groom to the audience. Something like, "Ladies and gentlemen, I now give you..." will end in applause and a great opportunity for you to bow out.

The father of the bride speech has been the subject of a lot of jokes and parodies, and whether you want to deliver one that will bring the house down or just to get through it without stumbling too much, remember that there some good things to remember. Once you have your speech memorized, you'll find that it all goes very easily, and it'll be over before you know it! If you liked this article you might like to read more about wedding speeches at http://www.simplyweddingspeeches.com

How to Spot Mail Order Bride Scams

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If you're looking for a mail order bride, there are generally two different scams you should be aware of. One is usually conducted by the dating or agency site and the other one involves scams originating from the women themselves.

Dating Site Scams

When a scam is being pulled by the website, generally the women who have signed up on the website are clueless that anything shady is going on.

But some sites post pictures without the woman's approval, or use women who only pretend to be foreign or have no intention of marrying. Some really unscrupulous sites make up women who don't even exist.

The best way to keep from being a victim of one of these sites is do adequate research on a site before ever signing up, and certainly before pulling out your credit card.

Search for reviews and look for others who may have already had problems with the site, including previous members.

Other things you can do as precautions:

• Make sure the site requires submission of a photograph. Don't settle for a list of names. 


• Be cautious of pictures of women in provocative poses or those wearing revealing clothes. They're much more likely to be after your attention for reasons other than a romantic encounter.  


• Choose medium size sites with a membership between 2,000 and 4,000 women. That's plenty of women to find a good match for you. It's a good idea to avoid sites that have less than 500 hopeful brides or those with tens of thousands. 


• Know before you sign up exactly what your charges will be, including the fees charged for extra services. Even better is a site that charges a flat monthly fee for all services rendered.  


• Be very leery of a site that shows pictures of women who all look like professional models. Browse the profiles to determine if real women are included, in casual pictures, rather than looking like they were lifted from a model's portfolio.

Mail Order Bride Scams

Another scam type you could possibly encounter is one from the woman herself. Sadly, you're more likely to become a victim of one of these scams than you are from a disreputable website scam.

It's more likely to happen on super large international dating sites because the scammer is able to cloak herself among the thousands of other women on the site. They also prefer the larger sites because it gives them a larger number of men they can try to scam.

It's important to realize that most of the women you'll find on mail order bride sites are honest, sincere women who are truly hoping to find love and ultimately, marriage. But to keep yourself from becoming a victim, you need to be able to recognize the warning signs that indicate a woman is trying to scam you.

When you know the signs, it's easier to tell when a woman is really interested in you, or when she's more interested in your credit card limit. Oftentimes, these women will play their hand quite early in the correspondence, but some of these scammers have the patience of Job, and will wait many months before tipping her hand. They live with the misguided belief that American men are all rich, and they're just after the ones who are naïve enough to send them money.

Sending $100 to a woman who's captured your heart may not seem like much to you, but to a Russian mail order bride, for instance, whose average income is $640 a month, she only needs to scam 7 men to generate a full time income.

The best way to protect yourself from becoming a victim of one of these scams is to never send her money.

They can be quite creative in the ways they come up with to make you feel sorry for them, and their ultimate goal is to get you to turn that sympathy into cash.

Here are some of the reasons you might hear:

1.She wants to see you, but doesn't have the funds for traveling, including tickets, money for a visa and other travel related expenses. This one is a classic and has fooled unknown numbers of well-meaning men.

2.You may get an email explaining that she needs translation services to read your letters and doesn't have the money to pay for it.

3.Once she's convinced you to buy an airline ticket for her, you may discover the travel agent she recommended is a fake.

4.She may lie about having had an accident, and ask you for help paying her hospital bill, or getting her car fixed, or even providing living expenses because she can't go back to work right away.

5.She may seek your sympathy by telling you a sad story about losing a job, having to quit school for financial reasons, a mother who's sick and can't afford her medicine...anything to get you to take out your credit card. The stories can be quite creative and extremely persuasive.

The takeaway from this is, in order to keep from becoming a victim, and being relieved of several hundred, or even several thousand dollars, thoroughly check out the dating site you're considering and once you've found one, don't be conned into sending any money to a potential bride.

For a site you can trust, visit Rosebrides.com. With a generous selection of Polish brides, Latvian brides, Russian brides and many other beautiful marriage minded women from countries all over the world, you're sure to find the one who's right for you.

Friend of the Bride Wedding Speech

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A wedding is a ceremony where a man and a woman come together to exchange wedding vows. Some guests are asked to give wedding speeches. One of them could be a friend of the bride wedding speech. This is normally the best friend of the bride. The friend of the bride usually gives a short wedding speech at the wedding and is mainly about the bride. This is to provide information about her to the guests.

The friend of the bride wedding speech can be in two forms. She can do this by writing the information on cue cards and referring to them as she talks or she can decide to speak from her memories of the bride. People listening to wedding ceremony speeches expect only the best man to be humorous, but the friend of the bride can decide to use comedy in her friend of the bride wedding speech as well. This is especially useful if the friend of the bride has been friends with the bride from childhood.

There are useful tips on helping one write their friend of the bride wedding speech. One is formulating a plan. This helps analyzing and outlining the point that will comprise the speech. In addition, decisions on whether the speech should be humorous or serious can be decided. Secondly, a short wedding speech should have a story line that flows. This will help in sentence flow and will act as a guide in connecting ideas from the beginning to the end. A wedding ceremony speech should start by welcoming the guests. The main part of the friend of the bride wedding speech should be about the bride. The conclusion should comprise of a vote of thanks and encouragements. One should carry out research on what to talk about. It is wise to avoid long speeches. Short wedding speeches are ideal, because they prevent guests from getting bored. These speeches usually last not more than ten minutes.

One of the ways a person can start the friend of the bride wedding speech is to tell the guests how they met with the bride. The friend of the bride can also talk about the groom. When talking about the groom, however, is advisable to be discreet and non-judgmental. The friend of the bride wedding speech should mainly be about the bride. However, if the friend of the bride is married she can give advice on marriage. She may include poetry as part of the speech or quote a love quote.

An example of a friend of the bride wedding speech could be like the following extract:

... "when Julie told me she had found someone to get married to, I thought I had lost a very good friend. I also felt jealous because Mike had got my best friend to settle down. We always competed regarding who would get married first. Clearly, I have lost that battle. In all the years we've been friends, Julie has never looked so happy. Congratulations to both you and Mike. May your lives be filled with joy and happiness."

When the friend of the bride finds it difficult to write a speech, she may use wedding sample to help her create a presentable friend of the bride wedding speech. This speech should be both entertaining as well as advisory.

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Wedding Table Ideas - The Centrepiece

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One of the most important wedding table ideas is the centrepiece.

Believe it or not guests do not just come to look and admire the bride and groom. Although the couple are centre of attention guests also come to admire the wedding decoration, this is because they define the mood and atmosphere of the setting.

There are many different types of centrepieces, this article will take a look into a select few of them as well as other wedding table ideas.

Candles Candles can create a really romantic mood for a wedding, there are hundreds of quality and thoughtfully presented candle designs to help you create the perfect theme for your wedding reception.

A display consisting of bowls of personalised floating candles make a very pretty presentation, and have the added benefit of being extremely easy to assemble.

Adding coloured petals to the water would also add a soft finish and using the correct colours would tie in with your colour scheme.

Sculpted or simple taper candles are also a wonderful addition to any wedding table. Taper candles can be accessorised if you wish to fit your theme and are drip free.

They add sophistication and elegance; they really are one of the best wedding table ideas.

Floral Centrepieces Flowers play a huge role when it comes to a wedding and what better way to dress up you wedding table with a beautiful floral centrepiece.

Whether your wedding table is long, short, large or small flowers can be custom made to fit around your whole theme including the size of the tables they will be placed on.

Floral wedding table ideas do not necessarily need to be made from fresh flowers, they can look just as effective when made by handmade paper or silk.

Artificial designs can also be kept by the guests to remember the day.

Flowers in vases are always a favourite, simple, and elegant. They play heavily into the mood of a ceremony so you need to think about the feeling you want to create for the whole day.

Flowers are extremely traditional for weddings and really should be added to your wedding table ideas list.

Chocolate Chocolate is one of the more fun wedding table ideas.

Why not have a chocolate fountain or bowls of little heart shaped hearts?

Did you know you can even have a moulded chocolate bride and groom centrepiece!

With chocolate the different ideas are endless, you could have a tower piled high with little bags of chocolate favours for your guests to nibble on throughout the evening or to take away as a reminder.

Other wedding table ideas There are many other wedding table ideas that you can use to decorate your wedding table, confetti being one of the most common

Confetti can be personalised, made from various materials and comes I all shapes and sizes.

Other ideas include

· Personalised coasters that provide a tasteful way of catching the attention of your guests.

· Place card holders to match the theme of your wedding

· Wedding cameras, providing each table with a throw away camera to capture the day

· Personalised rose petals sprinkled all around the tables

The list just goes on, all you have to remember that the best wedding table ideas and centrepieces are the one that are personal to your wedding theme.

Vicki Churchill is the owner of http://www.perfectweddingtableideas.com, a site that specializes in wedding table ideas and other special occasions