Mail Order Bride FAQ

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Mail order brides are a recent phenomenon and a lot of people may be unaware of the intricacies involved in this system. It is essential that all details related to mail order brides be obtained before registering with a mail order bride agency. For this purpose, many of the mail order bride agencies provide dedicated Web pages that serve as mail order bride FAQs. This enables people to understand the concept better and even be aware of issues that they may have never thought of earlier. The Web page answers all questions relating to laws, visas, and other common concerns. In other words, they provide all the required information that men need to know before they go in search of the perfect overseas woman. People have viewed the concept of mail order bride differently. Some prospective grooms may think the concept is a practical option while some others may not have such a positive view.

For different people, questions pertaining to the service may vary. Many web sites provide general information regarding their services and costs. However, for those people who want complete information, these companies arrange meetings wherein all queries can be answered. On a more practical note, for some people, questions concerning the mail order bride system may be of importance whereas for others, it would be about first meetings with their prospective brides. There are still others for whom FAQs regarding immigration issues, monetary commitments and linguistic barriers may be important. Interested individuals may enroll when they are satisfied that they have received all the information they wanted.

It is equally essential to have all the information about other terms and conditions that pertain to the mail order bride system. Different agencies may have different rules. Particulars regarding divorce also need to be obtained to avoid any additional monetary commitments that could arise at a later date. Another important query that generally arises is the mode of contact between the bride and the groom. Some agencies arrange for a telephonic conversation while others suggest a face-to-face conversation. It is extremely important that people interested in mail order brides, get in touch with the right people to obtain all the necessary details. They should have all their doubts cleared before venturing into it to avoid any problems in the future.

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

Filipino Mail Order Bride - A Scene Straight Out of The 1950's

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If you want to know what a Filipino mail order bride is like, just know that a Filipina is not your typical mail order bride, that is, they're not submissive and doormats - a typical misconception that is INSULTING to both the Filipina woman and the Western man who married her.

Filipina women generally still hold traditional family values and expect their men to act like a man and treat them like a lady. So, while the typical Filipina wife would be forgiving about her husband's imperfections (it's common to see aging Western men with younger Filipina woman), she expects a lot from her man in terms of leadership and being the head of the family.

The most typical questions that Filipino parents ask their married daughters are these: "Does he treat you well?" and "Is he a good provider?"

This "old fashioned" family values is really built on respect and is something that many Western men prefer this over egalitarian model that liberated women from the West demand.

Also, majority of Filipino women marry for life, except in cases of abuse, lack of financial support and chronic infidelity by the husband. To any man who has been through the pains of divorce, this "marrying for life" mindset is a welcome relief - and it shows in Fil-Am marriage high success rate.

If you're looking for a Filipino mail order bride (technically an illegal misnomer since the Philippine government banned mail order bride activities in the 1990's), just know that Filipino women will treat you like a king as long as you treat them like a lady.

But of course, this isn't to say that there are no bag eggs among the many Filipina woman who seek would-be husbands online. There are scammers out there, and it's really not that easy to make an online long-distance relationship work - sometimes you have to experience one heart break or two before you can find the one.

Hands down, the best place to meet a Filipina mail order bride online is CherryBlossoms Dating Site. While it is NOT a mail order bride service, it is teeming with Filipina women who want to find husbands among foreign men. Visit http://cherryblossomsdating.info/ for some tips on how you can successfully find a mate at CherryBlossoms.

Wedding Toasts - Tips For the Bride, Groom and Best Man

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Raise a glass - now's the time to toast to the happy couple! Wedding toasts and speeches can sometimes cause anxiety - but don't let them. Enjoy your moment in the limelight, and make the most of these situations with some prep work.

Your best man, maid of honor and other special guests may inquire about appropriate speaking times - so it's good to have an idea beforehand. You and your fiance may also want to prepare some expressions of gratitude for your parents, your guests or each other. Every wedding is different; discuss and layout a general "toasting timeline" before the celebrations begin.

Who Toasts?
Traditionally the best man, maid-of-honor and parents of the bride and groom will say something over the course of events. However, close friends, the bride and groom themselves or anyone who has something to say is welcome to make a toast.

When to Toast?
When to toast all depends on the nature of your wedding. If yours will be a cocktail or buffet-style reception, your guests may not ever be gathered at the same place and time to listen to toasts. Another option is to hold the formal wedding toasts, such as the best man's speech, during the rehearsal dinner instead. At a seated dinner, the father of the bride traditionally toasts to commence the meal. Your caterer can arrange an official champagne toast, passing glasses of champagne to each guest prior to the best man speech or the father of the bride. Toasts can really occur at any time during the reception - between courses, after the meal, during the cake cutting etc. Try to give your event coordinator an estimated timeframe beforehand, so he or she can round up your guests to listen.

How to Respond
Everyone should rise for toasts to the new couple except the bride and groom, who remain seated (unless they already happen to be standing). When someone toasts the bride and groom, they should smile and say thank you. They should not clap or drink to themselves. If a toast addresses the bride only, the groom should rise. If a toast is directed towards the parents or any other guest, both the bride and groom should rise.

When the Newlyweds Toast
This is a wonderful opportunity to publicly recognize your family and friends for their love and support. If the bride and groom make a toast, they should not speak in unison (this sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised. They should instead stand together while one speaks or take turns speaking.

What to Say
Wedding toasts should be light, fun and G-rated. Avoid saying anything you wouldn't say to the bride's grandmother's face. Be succinct. There is nothing more awkward than a rambling, bumbling best man speech - under two minutes is perfect. All speakers should begin by introducing themselves. While toasts should include memories or funny anecdotes, avoid too many inside jokes that exclude the majority of guests. Your jokes will be met with silence if only a few listeners understand! Finally, wedding toasts should mention both the bride and the groom, even if the speaker only knows one or the other. And if the spotlight is on you and you're suddenly at a loss for words, try the old standby, "I'm so happy for you two. Cheers!" It never goes out of style.

How to Say It
It's smart to prepare beforehand, but always try to speak from the heart. Reading from a card seems insincere and awkward.

Looking for more advice on making a wedding toast? This complete guide to wedding toasts and speeches will walk you through it.

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.

Unique Bridal Shower Gifts - Seven Ideas to Celebrate the Bride-to-Be

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There was a time when a bridal shower was held in order to help the new bride get all the things she would need to start married life. All you had to do was visit the housewares section, or choose something off the registry list, and you were finished. But, these days, many brides have already been living on their own before their wedding.

Instead of getting a bride's home ready for becoming a wife, the focus shifts to helping the bride herself. Bridal showers have become a time for women to get together and pamper the bride-to-be as well as to prepare her for married life. And that leaves a doorway for all kinds of unique gifts. Here are seven tips and ideas to make sure you give a memorable gift for your next bridal shower.

1. In this modern era, many engaged brides and grooms are paying for their own wedding and their own honeymoons. What would your bride love to have - but wouldn't buy for herself during this time in her life? Make some notes and, if necessary, get together with friends to purchase something that the bride will really enjoy. Another idea is to chip in to purchase something for the honeymoon - a romantic daylong getaway, for example, that the couple may not think they can afford on their own.

2. Some of the most popular bridal gifts are those that will help the bride-to-be remember the good times you have shared together. Create a collage or visit a photo processing website and create an album. Or simply frame your favorite photograph of yourself with the bride and include a sentimental message on the back.

3. Create a personalized gift basket for the bride. Fill the basket with her favorite pampering treats, including crèmes and lotions or her favorite fragrance, which she can wear on her wedding day. For a really memorable gift, include a gift certificate to her favorite spa so she can enjoy a little pampering a day or two before the big day - especially during the hectic days before the wedding.

4. Another very popular bridal shower gift is lingerie. Try to coordinate the lingerie with the theme of the couple's honeymoon destination.

5. Give her a wedding day survival kit. You can purchase one of these already assembled from various online retailers, or you can make your own. Include anything that she might need just before the big day: hair spray, hair clips, her favorite bath gel, mints, deodorant, double-sided tape, and so on. Place all the essentials you can think of in a train case or other nice carrying case with a sentimental note.

6. Make something. Add a personal touch (and keep the costs down) by making something just for the bride-to-be. If you are handy with a needle and thread, see if there is something the bride would like you to make: a bridal veil, for example. Or perhaps you could help with the flowers or the centerpieces. Offer to create some favors or decorations, or, if you are a scrapbooker or a photographer, take some photographs of the days and weeks leading up to the wedding and create a keepsake album.

7. Think back to your own bridal shower - or any shower in recent memory. What bridal shower gifts drew the most ooh's and aah's from the other guests? Paying attention to things like this (and noting them at the time) will make you a great gift giver, in bridal showers, birthdays, and every other occasion, as well.

The key when trying to figure out a perfect bridal shower gift is to keep your focus on the bride and your personal relationship. Anything that celebrates the bride, or your relationship with her, as well as those items that contribute to her wedding day or honeymoon, will be perfect.

Jamie Jefferson writes for Momscape.com and Susies-Coupons.com, where she shares coupons and promotions for SpaFinder Gift Certificates and ideas for personalized bridal shower favors

Mother of the Bride Outfits - Picking Out the Right One

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The wedding day is approaching and the bride has her dress. A new question is where to find a mother of the bride outfit? The mother of the bride will require outfits for the wedding of course but also the rehearsal dinner or reception. She will require an outfit for the bridal shower. There are many festivities as there are many different events within the main event, the wedding, and so there are just as many different options for the mother of bride in regards to outfits that can be worn.

To begin the search, the mother should speak to her daughter as to what outfits are needed. A list of events should be created such as bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, any receptions and the wedding. When compiling this list, add a note to the side of the type of dress that is expected. You can put dressy or casual attire.

The next step is to decide to go shopping. This action needs to occur ahead of time and it does not need to occur in one day. The mother of the bride should take her daughter with her. With both of them shopping it will help in deciding on an appropriate look for the mother. Stay away from the bridal shops. They are typically more expensive than other shops. Look around and buy something that can be worn again.

If the affair is not going to be very dressy, go for the more casual approach. Leave the sequins at the door and opt for a designer mother of the bride outfits that could possibly get more wear. A pant suit by your favorite designer could be an option for the bridal shower. Remember you can look for plus size mother of the bride outfits.

A growing trend for weddings is to match the mother of the brides dress for the wedding with the colors that the bride has chosen. This is a complementary way to celebrate the day. Another popular trend is to choose a color for the mother of the bride that does not resemble the wedding colors at all. The mother of the bride stands out. Either way a dress can be found at numerous places. The bride and her mother need to work together to come to a decision which way they would like to proceed.

Remember when planning a dress for the mother of the bride; do not choose white, cream or any type of white. The bride is supposed to be the only one who wears white. This is the day for the bride to shine and the mother should not be in the spotlight.

Do not forget there is another mother. The mother of the groom will need a dress too. It is a good idea to coordinate the two mothers. Both families do not want the mothers to show up with clashing outfits. There are plenty of the mother of the groom outfits to choose from.

Weddings are an exciting occasion for any family. Picking out the mother of the bride outfit does not need to be stressful. Take your time and pick something beautiful. There are many options to choose from. Have the bride involved in the decision. Remember two minds are better than one.

mother of the bride outfits should look perfect for the occasion. In her informational site, Lynne Moreno will help you choose accordingly and also give you tips and ideas on choosing plus size mother of the bride outfits.

Jewelry For an Indian Bride

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Weddings in all parts of the world are celebrated with great joy and ceremonies. However, an important part of an Indian wedding is jewelry. The wedding is the most imperative part of any individual, and most importantly for the bride. One of the customs of Indian wedding relates to dressing up of bride with ornate and auspicious jewels. Weddings are considered holy so great significance is given to the ornaments worn by the bride. As it is considered to signify and strengthen the bond between bride and the groom.

Wedding jewelry is selected with much care as it should be according to the dress of the bridal. Although the latest trends are considered, but still more importance is given to the religious and cultural beliefs. This holds true not only for the bridal dress but also for the jewels that she wears. Gold is the preferred metal for preparing accessories of Indian bride. This is because gold is considered the most sacred for Indian weddings. Ornaments made from different metals such as silver, diamond, white gold or platinum can also b used for the bride. Precious stones such as pearl, ruby and emerald are used in jewelry as a complement for the bridal dress.

Although there are cultural differences among people in India, still jewels worn by Indian brides are similar. One of the most common accessories is the Mangtika or Shringar Patti. It is worn on the hair parting and may come down to ears through the hairline. Earrings and necklaces are common in all regions. Brides usually prefer wearing heavy weight earrings and necklaces matching with their bridal outfit. Precious and colorful stones are used in necklaces and earrings as this jewelry has to be accompanied with the bridal dress.

A nose ring is worn on the nose and may have a long chain attached to it. The other end of the chain is attached with the hair. However, nose piercing has become a trend these days and girls wear small nose rings o0n their nose. Bangles are an accessory that is common in each and every culture and every Indian woman wears it. Apart from bangles, rings, bracelets and armlets are used to beautify the arms and hands of the Indian bride. This ornament is also made up of gold along with the usage of precious stones.

Other jewels that are worn by the bride are the waist bands, toe rings and anklets. Different designs and styles are available for anklets and toe rings. Toe rings are worn by married women also and it is worn in the fingers of both the feet. The waist band is generally made from silver, but can be of gold too.

Since the culture is the most influencing for Indian brides. So, a large variety of designs may be seen. Brides from east go for beads, while brides from western parts like stones and mirror styles. Northern brides like carvings in their ornamental designs and southern brides like temple designs.

Keep yourself up with latest fashion with trendy clothing range and magnificent jewelry designs. Visit http://www.AccessoriesMagicKingdom.com, if looking for latest designs at surprisingly low price.

Bride, Groom - You Can't Afford to be Average!

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More than 1/3 of couples getting married in the United States pay for their own weddings. Even more couples in the U.S. pay for at least a portion of their wedding expenses.

If you are a bride or groom reading this article, then you are probably one of the couples who are paying for or at least helping to pay for their own wedding.

Even as more couples get involved in planning for and paying for their dream weddings, the wedding price tag continues to grow more forboding. In the year 2007, according to CostOfWedding.com, the average U.S. wedding cost was $28,800. This figure is expected to steadily rise in years to come.

Today's bride and groom have become so desensitized to the incredible expense of planning a wedding that they hardly stop to think about how much money that really is. Let's take a moment to put that $28,800 price tag in perspective and look at a couple ways to make your wedding more affordable.

First, let's consider that $28,800 is more than most brides or grooms bring home from work in a year.

Now, suppose a couple wants to save up for their wedding so they don't go into debt. If they are saving for a $28,800 wedding, they should consider how much they should feed their wedding savings piggy bank each month. If they can only afford to save, say, $300 per month, they should plan on saving for a full 8 years ($300 x 96 months [that's 8 years]=$28,800). What engaged couple is willing to wait 8 years to get married?

We haven't even considered that it takes considerable discipline to save $300 each month. Some might need to wait longer as they can only save $150 a month or even less.

Most couples choose to get married within a year or two of their engagement. If they are paying for their own wedding as more than 1/3 of couples do, they often plan their expensive wedding courtesy Visa or Mastercard. That saves them the trouble of budgeting and saving for all those years before marriage. Instead of saving before marriage for their wedding day, they spend those delicate first years of marriage after the wedding day struggling with debt and living uncomfortably frugal lives together. Their credit card company keeps them under its thumb for years as interest piles up on interest and the poor couple barely scrapes by.

We wish that we were exaggerating here but all too often this is the scenario in which young couples find themselves. All so they could glory in one splendid day marking the beginning of their marriage. Hoping that somehow the perfection of the wedding day would somehow rub off on each succeeding day of marriage, the couple had poured a year's salary into that big day. The reality is that the expense of that wedding day is paid for day after day of their married lives and they realize all too late that financial stress is the number one killer of marriages.

Americans with their individualistic attitudes tend to believe that they are special and that the rules do not apply to them. Likewise, couples planning their weddings tend to think that they will be the exception. That they will somehow spend less than most spend or that they will somehow be able to pay their credit cards off later without much problem.

Well, if you are not careful, you will soon discover that you are not exempt from the norms and that you are all too average. You will discover yourself in a quagmire of financial stress and marital disharmony day after day for years all for the sake of a wedding that was bought at a much too high of a price - we regret to say that it could even cost you your marriage.

What should you do? Stop being average. Stop planning your wedding the way most young brides and grooms plan their weddings.

Set a realistic spending allowance for your wedding - a spending allowance that you and your lover can live with. Go into your wedding planning with your eyes wide open.

You really can have a wonderful wedding day on whatever price you are able to pay - whether that be $5,000 or just $500. You would be amazed at how far that money can go when you are committed to planning your dream wedding on your chosen budget.

We were personally willing to spend no more than $2,000 for our wedding. We worked out a strategy that allowed us to stay under budget while planning a very memorable and special wedding day that is on par with any other wedding we have attended.

We have written a wedding planner to guide you in your wedding planning. In the wedding planner, we guide you in creating a reasonable wedding budget and show you step by step just what you need to do to see your dream wedding come true while staying under budget.

You can't afford to be average. Instead, be amazing!

Wedding Planning on a Budget is available as an instant download which can be read on your computer or printed at your convenience. To get your copy of this powerful wedding planning guide visit the Wedding Planner Download Page (see resource box).

We wish you the best and hope that you have an amazing wedding and a wonderful marriage together for the rest of your lives.

Show Your Budget Who Is In Charge!

Download Tim and Lisa's wedding planner, subscribe to their blog for daily advice, and see how they planned the wedding of their dreams for just $2,000! Visit Today... http://www.weddingplanningonabudget.com

The Sad But Momentous Day for the Father of the Bride!

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For the father of the bride, the wedding day is typically a day of mixed emotions. On one hand, there is pride and joy at the fact that his beloved daughter is getting married to someone she loves. At the same time, it is mixed with the sadness that comes with the realization that his daughter has grown up and is no longer daddy's little girl.

One of the most important things that the father of the bride does on the wedding day is to give away the bride. As per custom, once the congregation has been seated, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her father while the groom waits for them at the altar. This tradition is rich with emotional undertones. The father who has looked after his daughter is now symbolically handing over the care of his daughter to the new man in her life.

Of course, there are many who feel that this custom is no longer relevant today when most women have a career and are no longer under the care of their parents and are unlikely to be under the care of their husbands. On the flip side, the sight of the father of the bride escorting his daughter down the aisle to the uplifting notes of "Here comes the Bride" still resonates with many of us and captures the transition into marriage beautifully. Ultimately, whether this custom is included in the ceremony or not must be decided by the father of the bride and the bride herself.

Once the wedding ceremony is over, the father and mother of the bride leave for the reception venue. Since they are the hosts of the reception, it is important that they arrive there ahead of the guests so that they can welcome the guests as they come in. During the reception the father of the bride will be called on by the Best Man to make a speech and propose a toast. Once the reception is over, the father of the bride is expected to stay until the end of the party to help with any final bills or to make last-minute arrangements.

The level of involvement of the father of the bride in the wedding planning and preparation depends on the decision of the bride and groom and their parents. Sometimes the wedding is held in the house of the bride's parents - at such times, it is natural that the father of the bride ends up deeply involved in almost every step of the wedding preparation.

At other times, and especially if the wedding is being held far away from the bride's parental home, the involvement of the father of the bride in the wedding preparations may be minimal. However, keep in mind that most fathers would love to be involved in their daughter's weddings in some way or the other so do ask them for their help whenever it is needed.

Traditionally, the father of the bride also shoulders the cost of the reception. However, this trend is changing, partly due to the fact that both the bride and the groom are earning members and partly because of the rising costs of a reception party. The accepted practice nowadays is for the cost of the wedding and the reception to be jointly borne by the parents of the bride, the parents of the groom and the couple themselves. However, if the father of the bride offers to foot the bill, the gracious thing to do would be to accept the offer.

Whatever you as the couple choose regarding the costs of the whole event, remember the day is for celebration and significant day for the father of the bride. It is a day where he relinquishes his daughter to a another man and where the groom resumes the responsibility of caring for her. The father of the bride will be sad on one side but will know that his daughter will always be daddy's little girl no matter what.

Shirley Tan is currently the owner of My Groomsmen Gifts, known for having unique and specialty groomsmen gifts at inexpensive prices. At http://www.MyGroomsmenGifts.com, you will find many stylish and distinctive gifts for the groomsmen in your wedding.

If you have any questions regarding any of the products seen online, please email us at info@MyGroomsmenGifts.com or call them at (888)381-8869.

A Checklist for Mothers of the Bride

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The mother of the bride is one of the busiest members of the wedding party prior to, as well as on, the big day. There is so much to think about and so much to do that she needs to put together a checklist for herself in order to make sure everything is covered. No doubt, she'll attend at least one bridal shower for her daughter, and she needs to dress with sophistication in spite of the fact that it is probably a casual affair. Item one on her checklist-as far as clothing goes-is to choose an appropriate outfit for this fun party.

Something simple and fresh is a 3/4 Brocade Jacket and Chiffon Pant Set in heather and black. The soft heather of the brocade jacket is complemented by black buttons and a black ribbon at the waist. The chiffon pants have wide legs for added comfort as she joins in the party games. Everyone will remember the mother of the bride as a woman who is not only friendly and fun but also possesses a great sense of style.

Item two on the checklist is to select something appropriate to wear for the all-important meeting of the groom's parents. The mother of the bride will want to look sophisticated, but friendly when she meets her daughter's new in-laws.

She'll manage to pull off that look in a Short Sleeve Portrait Collar Dress. The fabric is shantung and the style is classic. A portrait color frames her face, and short sleeves give this dress just a hint of casualness-always a friendly touch. Available in softened versions of lime or aqua, this dress offers a semi-pleated skirt that will make Mom's legs look great, and the tie at her waist will give her a slim silhouette.

If the bride's parents wish, they can host a reception for the happy couple in their home. Item three on Mom's checklist is to select a lovely dress for this semi-formal event: something comfortable but just a bit sexy. A Portrait Collar Knit Dress with Lace Skirt is just the thing. This is a very feminine dress from the portrait collar that extends off the shoulders, down the slimming waist to the knee-skimming black lace skirt. Beads adorn the slim skirt, giving her just enough shimmer to catch the eye-and hold it.

When it's time to head for the church to rehearse the ceremony, Mom will want to dress appropriately. Item four on her check list will be to find just the right outfit for this important event.

A Three Quarter Sleeve Shantung Short Jacket Dress in blue or light mocha will do the trick. This is a two-piece outfit with a sleeveless tank dress under a bolero jacket that has three-quarter length sleeves. The mandarin collar of the jacket is accented with beads, as is the waist of the dress. The hemline of this lovely outfit skims just above her knees.

A dress for the rehearsal dinner is item five on the checklist, and it should be something elegant and flattering. A little black dress is always appropriate for this type of event. Mom might like a Tea-Length Dress with Ruffle Collar and Bow Detail. This dress is made of taffeta, so it's lightweight. Ruffles adorn the neckline, spilling across and down the bodice to a lovely bow at the waist. The skirt is slightly full-enough to rustle gently as she rises to toast her daughter and her husband-to-be.

The sixth and final item on the mother of the bride's checklist is the dress she'll wear to the ceremony. This must be a garment that tells the world who she is. Of course, the style of this important dress will depend on the nature of the ceremony. Is it formal or casual? Is it an evening ceremony or mid-afternoon?

An afternoon wedding might call for a Two Piece Floral Jacquard Suit with Rosette Detail. This lovely outfit features a jacket with a portrait collar, a single rosette detail on the button, and three-quarter length sleeves. The skirt is slender and falls to the knees. The fabric is silver jacquard with a lovely floral print that shimmers in the sunlight of this glorious day. When she wears this suit, Mom will shimmer, too.

For a formal evening wedding, the mother of the bride might choose a One-Shoulder Sueded Charmeuse Side Drape Dress. This is a dramatic look in a subtle shade of gold. The dress is made of sueded charmeuse fabric, draping from one shoulder in an elegant shimmering fall of gold. It's a slim dress, with just a slight flare below the knees.

Mom will look sophisticated and elegant as she escorted down the aisle to take her place at the front of the church. Until her daughter enters, every eye will be on the beautiful woman in the front row. And that is as it should be.

Grant Vera is a freelance writer who writes about weddings and specific products such as mother of the bride dresses.

Gift Ideas to Honor the Parents of the Bride and Groom

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Preparing wedding gifts is a traditional way for blissful couples to thank and appreciate people who have done a great job in supporting them and helping during their big day. One of the most special and meaningful gifts they'll be looking for are gifts for their parents. The truth is, their parents contribute both financial and emotional support to the wedded couple, plus the fact that their presence is extremely important during the wedding ceremony itself. Therefore they truly deserve a special gift. As with the blissful couple, they want to give meaningful gifts to show not only their love but also their deep gratitude for everything that their parents have done for them throughout their lives.

One popular option to give are personalized gifts. These are gifts formed from simple items that have been made personalized by means of scripting initials or personal messages. Literally, there are tons of personalized gift ideas to choose from, and whether they are expensive or not, and no matter what the occasion may be, an item that has been made personalized turns an ordinary gift into a very special present. Personalized items provide a special memento of love and history for the family.

Such personalized items you may consider are picture frames, photo albums, jewelry and the like. Engraved frames and photo albums with a heartfelt message and unforgettable photos will likely be treasured for years to come. Jewelry like lockets with engraved wedding dates are great options too. Also, plaque, trophy and other miniature desk accessories are wonderful inspirational mementos to honor the parents' presence and support. Other selection includes jewelry boxes, cufflinks, flask, pocket watches, wine gifts, mugs and crystal glasses and other personalized gift boxes that are truly memorable and unique.

Also, classic gift ideas are perfect and suited for mom's and dad's personality. You may find items made from precious materials that can give an elegant and very classy look. Happy couples may consider to give a memorable and timeless gift of crystal, like a crystal clock perhaps, or vase and other antique items.

These are great gift options to give for mom and dad that they will not only enjoy, but also something that could give them a sense of relaxation and pampering after a series of stressful wedding preparation. Many couples would like to treat their parents to a day in the spa and massage parlor, bed and breakfast weekend getaway or other recreational activities where they could enjoy, have some fun and unwind.

And lastly, happy couples may wish to prepare special presents by creating their handmade wedding gifts for their mom and dad. Creative and imaginative artwork will do, it could be a scrapbook with pictures reminiscing history of the family, or perhaps a multi media presentation with memorable family events compilation. Also, consider buying unique and creative items like personalized cooler chairs or engraved cufflinks for the couple's dads, pink flask and engraved compact mirror for the couple's moms. Other unique gift ideas for parents are found at nearest specialty stores. Always remember, the key to have special and memorable gifts for parents are deep within you, you already know how to make mom and dad happy, all you have to do is to add a little spice for extra accent. After all, the smile of your happy parents are part of making your momentous day a success!

Janet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics including weddings. If you're looking for gifts for parents, visit the website Americanbridal.com and browse their collection. Find unique father of the bride cufflinks to make your dad feel special!

The Elegance of Mother of the Bride Dresses

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Watching your daughter get married is one of the best moments in your life and you need to look honored as you are giving away your daughter. Just because you are the mother of the bride doesn't mean that you have to look like an old women. There are fabulous mother of the bride dresses available at online that would make you look elegant and gorgeous. Hold you head high and dress yourself in the best gown as you witness the most special day in your daughter's life.

It is a time honored tradition to select the best mother of the bride dress. You have a wide range of patterns, fits and styles to match your tastes. But always remember to set up a budget before you begin your shopping spree. Going in debt over a dress would be the last thing you wanted this time. Once the budget is set, you can choose where to shop and what style you need to purchase.

Are you getting ready for a summer wedding? There are unlimited choices of gowns for this season. You need to choose a light weight fabric but make sure that it doesn't appear drab and dull. The attire should not be too tight or too loose. Go for a pastel shade like beige or cream for the evening ceremony and a brighter shade like deep purple or deep red for morning ceremony. Since it is a summer wedding you can pick some strappy, sleeveless or short sleeves gowns. Check out the Terani couture short sleeve chiffon dress and Victoria royal off shoulder beaded shealth long dress at online stores.

A full length gown would be the best option for the winter wedding ceremony. It would make you look classy and also would keep you warm. You can team up the mother of the bride dresses with some cool jackets too. Silk gowns with lovely crystal or bead work on them would look fantastic on you. There are also some exciting collections in vintage inspired dresses too. Keep medium length sleeves or full sleeves in net fabric or the same fabric as the gown if you are not opting for a jacket. Slip on a pair of elegant gloves for completing the classic look.

If it is a spring season wedding put in all your efforts to get a colorful and pretty mother of the bride dresses. Pull it off with a dark red or even an orange gown in light chiffon. Also you can try some multi colored gown in combinations like black and red, white and blue etc. you don't have to worry if plus size gown is what you need. There are many stores offering plus size dress that would compliment your figure.

The author is expert for evening dresses. For information visit our site party dresses.

To The Bride And Groom - A Special Wedding Toast

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You can deliver a very memorable wedding toast by being confident, funny, heartfelt, and poised. Writing a wedding speech could be very difficult, and who wants to be embarrassed in front of a crowd? I have done some research on wedding speeches and came up with a simple guideline that anyone can follow.

Do:

Leave out the sibling rivalries, tell about something your sibling has taught you, and if it's a lie then who really cares?

Write out your speech, if it's longer than two pages then it's too long.

Introduce yourself to the wedding guests, everyone may not know who you are. Do you work with them, are you their sibling, did you attend college together, etc.

Say something positive about the wedding ceremony.

Tell a funny joke at the bride/groom's expense, but remember to keep it clean.

Tell an anecdote about the couple. Where you there when they met? Did they bring out qualities in each other?

If you are the Maid of Honor don't forget the groom (and vice versa). Say something nice about him/her.

Provide an insight into the couple's relationship.

Pay tribute to the bride and/or the groom.

End your toast on a high note- wish the couple a happy future.

Then don't forget to propose the toast and have guests join you and lift their glasses. Complete the toast with "Cheers", "Salute", etc.

Don't:

Don't give out any embarrassing moments, like the time you and the groom were trying to score women in Cancun.

If you went to the bachelor party don't give the details.

Don't end your toast with "Now let's party!" or "BooYah!".

Please never put this in a wedding toast: "You guys are totally awesome!"

Never, ever give a wedding speech while you are drunk, or had to much to drink.

A special touch for your speech would be to have it printed out and framed and presented to the bride and groom so they can always remember, because weddings are meant to be remembered. And always remember to speak from the heart... Hey Now let's get this party started!

Michelle Dudley runs http://www.gotdudley.com where she is always looking for unique Food and Drink articles, feel free to contact her if you have an article on the subject at shelly656@gotdudley.com
If you are still stuck on on writing a wedding speech please visit http://gotdudley.blogspot.com

Walking Down the Wedding Aisle: Who Walks Who, Anyway?

Another dilemma that often comes up when planning a wedding is who will walk the bride down the aisle. Although traditionally it's the father that does this, the plethora of step-families has made it a more difficult decision. This is especially true when the step parents have been in the children's lives for a long time.

Breaking tradition

A bride that has both a step father and a biological father may opt still to have her biological father walk her down the aisle. This can be a way to show her family bond as well as stick with tradition. In the case of a bride that hasn't been close to her father, she may opt to have her step father walk her down the aisle. This is a newly emerging sight at weddings, and quite touching.

Of course, if the bride loves both of the men and wants to include them, there's nothing wrong with having both walk her down the aisle. It honors her relationship with both men and lets them have the chance to hold her arm.

This also holds true for the groom. He can choose to escort both a step mother and his biological mother down the aisle at the beginning is she should choose to. Or the best man can do so, as is tradition.

If the father has passed on, the bride may opt to have an older brother or an uncle walk her down the aisle. Likewise, if the mother of the groom has passed, then a sister or an aunt may want to walk with him.

Dealing with difficulties

While this all seems like a loving and simple solution to include everyone in the wedding, some parents may still have issues with their ex-spouses. And this can lead to bitter feelings about your choice in who walks who down the aisle.

Should you fight for what you want? That's entirely up to you. If walking with both fathers makes you happy, then you should do that--even if the opposite wives are not pleased for whatever reason.

If you feel that it may cause more trouble than it is worth, then you may opt to stick with tradition. Just be sure to include your step father in some other part of the wedding so he doesn't feel left out because of biological status.

In the end, remember that it's your day and your decision.

Amy Spade is an expert on planning weddings, and she has written an amazing totally free minicourse on how to make sure that you have the day of your dreams, and avoid wedding day disaster!

Get the free course "Your Special Day from Start to Finish" now at at http://www.weddingdata.com

Wedding Speeches - The Bride's Wedding Speech

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"Your Special day has finally arrived, you're about to get married to the man of your dreams. You have decided you want say a few words at your wedding, you want to let everyone know how happy you are to be marrying your man and to thank everyone for helping make your day perfect."

The days of the bride's wedding speech being simply a list of names to read out as thank-you's are gone, brides now want to have something to say on their special day. Whilst the bride's wedding speech does still need to include a "thank you" list of people who helped contribute to your life and your day, it can include that much more.

You want to convey to everyone your heartfelt thanks for helping you on this day, you want to let your new husband and everyone else present know just how delighted you are to be his wife. You need to thank mum and dad, for all their efforts in raising you, you want to keep it light, sprinkle a few laughs in amongst the emotion.

Writing the bride's wedding speech can be an anxiety filled, nerve wracking experience, You want to make sure you say just the right thing without over doing it, you want to convey the right amount of emotion as well as humor.

Not all of us are bestowed with the ability to get across exactly what we mean when making a speech. In the link below you will find professionally written speech writing guides that will take the time and pain out of writing your bride's wedding speech. You can literally have it up and written in 30 minutes, allowing you to get on with planning and enjoying the million other things you need to have in place for the day. Best of all the guides are available for direct download so even if it's the night before the big day you will be able to successfully get your speech written.

To construct the perfect speech for your big day take a look at the following link The Bride's Wedding Speech

Wishing you luck on your Big day!

Gloria Bond is a wedding planner and holds writing seminars to help people create the perfect speech for all occasions and overcome the fear of public speaking. Gloria is the editor of ceremonyspeech.com where can read more about giving the perfect wedding speeches.

Exploring Mother-of-the-Bride Responsibilities

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Parents play an important role when it comes to the planning and execution of a wedding and for some brides, a little too much. Over the years, the mother-of-the-bride held very different responsibilities from the duties of today, as more and more couples are becoming independent from their parents. Depending on the economic and living situation of the married-couple-to-be, a mother-of-the-bride could face extreme involvement or have very few things to worry about.

Financial Obligations?

Tradition has significantly changed, where the cost of the wedding and reception is no longer attached to the parents of the bride. Throughout time, the modern bride has reached a level of financial security where she no longer needs the help of her parents to pay for a wedding. The cost of a wedding may also be split between the engaged couple or both sets of parents.

Support

As mother-of-the-bride, she should provide her daughter with unlimited mental and emotional support. Weddings are quite stressful and many unexpected problems could arise, whether the caterer is being difficult or the dressmaker has made a blunder on the bridesmaids' dresses. This is also a common time where arguments arise at the most random times because the upcoming event often breeds tension (for even the most put-together and organized weddings). A mother-of-the-bride should make this moment in time memorable and may have to often remind her daughter how special this time in her life is.

Post Engagement

When preparations are in the beginning stages, it is important to set up a meeting between the engaged couple and the groom's family. This is the time to get acquainted with the rest of the family (if it already hasn't happened), as well as discuss the particulars, such as future plans and who is paying for what. A tentative budget should be set up. Some mother-of-the-brides will host and finance an engagement party for the engaged couple.

Before the Wedding

Choosing suitable attire for the wedding day should be completed and sometimes even coordinated with the mother of the groom. Custom usually states that the mother-of-the-bride should select her dress first, and that the groom's mother should choose a different, yet complimentary style and color. The mother-of-the-bride may contact the local newspaper and place a formal engagement announcement. When the time comes for her daughter to select a bridal gown and accessories, the mother often accompanies her on this special day.

She may also assist in the selection of the bridesmaids' dresses; help establish a guest list; select and order invitations; and choose thank-you cards. Once the invitations arrive, she might help with the addressing and sending out. When the RSVPs start to arrive, the mother-of-the-bride may keep track of acceptances and refusals. The seating plan may also fall under the responsibilities of the mother-of-the-bride. When it comes to the bridal shower, she may host and pay for bridal shower.

Ceremony Preparations

The mother-of-the-bride should dress early so she may offer help to the bride and her bridesmaids. This is especially helpful if any last minute emergencies should arise. Her daughter may start to show signs of anxiousness, nervousness and doubts. Her mother should offer moral support and calm her fears, while helping to get her dressed for the walk down the aisle. In her purse, the mother-of-the-bride should carry tissues, makeup, dental flow, hairpins, and any other knick-knack accessories that a bride may need at the last minute.

Since the excitement of a wedding day may have the bride's mind elsewhere, the mother-of-the-bride should think ahead of time and gather keepsakes she may forget to save after the exchange of vows. This may include bringing home candles, flowers, and extra programs.

Reception

Sometimes, a mother-of-the-bride will act as a host when the reception kicks off. She is also usually the last to leave. As the guests begin to shuffle home, she may collect the gifts, deal with leftovers and other random items, as well as salvage the cake topper.

Yolanda is the owner of Yolandas Wedding Favors. She sells many different types of wedding gifts such as personalized cosmetic bags, spa slippers, glass mugs and many more wedding gifts. So if you are looking for wedding guest books [http://www.yolandasweddingfavors.com/weddingguestbooks.html], unity candles, toasting flutes, personalized bridesmaid gifts then visit Yolandas Wedding Favors.

Fun Things For Brides

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Being a bride is one of the most fun times in a young woman's life. Besides the best part (marrying the man your love!), there are so many other things that make this time a blast. Go ahead and indulge yourself with some of these fun things for brides.

When you start looking at bridal magazines and websites, you will probably notice things that you had no idea even existed. There are many products, often personalized, to help you get into the spirit of being a bride. It would be fun to treat yourself to a few of these little novelties that you can only have while you are a bride.

One popular idea is to get a t-shirt that has the word "Bride" emblazoned on it in crystals. Now this may sound a little silly to some, but you have to admit that it is kind of cute for a bachelorette night on the town. By the way, there are usually matching undies available - get them in blue to wear under your wedding gown for "something blue".

What many brides will do is to get the coordinating shirts for their attendants that say "Bridesmaid" or "Maid of Honor". It makes for fun gifts to give each bridesmaid. Something that has such limited use should not be your main bridesmaid gifts, but it could be part of a bigger gift, perhaps tucked into a monogrammed tote bag that they can use again.

Along this same theme are customized things that you can order with your future name on it. Imagine a bikini for your honeymoon with "Mrs. Smith" on the tush in crystals. Also popular are hoodies that say "The future Mrs. Smith" on the back. To get the groom into the act, you can also get shirts or hats that say "Just married" on them.

Don't forget about the children in your wedding. What little girl wouldn't love a pink t-shirt proclaiming her status as a "Flower girl"? For the little boys in your bridal party, you can find shirts declaring them to be "Official Keeper of the Ring".

A more subtle thing that a bride can get is personalized footwear. There are some shoe designers who will put your initials and wedding date in crystals on the sole of your high heeled bridal shoes. Other couples will get the flip flops that say "Just married" on the soles to leave an impression in the sand - perfect for that beach honeymoon.

Speaking of things that you can have customized, did you know that you can actually get postage with a picture on it? How great would it be to put your engagement photo on your invitations or save-the-date cards? You could even get one of your wedding pictures made into postage to use on your thank you notes. Now that would be sure to impress!

Being a bride is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are so many fun little trinkets that you can pick up to make the whole thing even more fun. Don't worry about being silly - this is your chance to indulge in a few things that make you smile. Besides, you know that you secretly want those "Bride" undies!

Ask Bridget for advice in areas of jewelry or weddings. She writes numerous articles providing information for the customers of Silverland Jewelry.com. Bridesmaid gifts should be something that you know your attendants will enjoy for many years, such as jewelry.

Planning an Outdoor Wedding? Make Sure to Have Bride & Groom Sunglasses

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An outdoor wedding may not be so uncommon these days, but it is still one that takes a lot of planning and preparation. Weather conditions are sometimes unpredictable, and there's no telling if on a pleasantly cloudy day, the sun would suddenly burst out of the clouds and bombard the contingency! To be safe, have protective gear ready, especially for the newlyweds. Keep bride & groom sunglasses handy, for example.

Sunglasses are staple protective wear for people who plan to spend a long time outdoors. And wedding ceremonies may take long even if they're held in open locations, such as natural forests and private beaches. Wide open locations may be especially troublesome to the eyes, producing glare that would cause significant discomfort, not to mention potential health problems you would NOT want to deal with during a happy event. Bride & groom sunglasses would be your first line of defence in keeping the most important people in the ceremony happy and safe!

If you have the budget and the time, invest on sunglasses for all the guests. Cheap sunglasses may be good enough, if your primary objective is to shield their eyes from the sun's harmful rays, so you would not have to spend too much on this particular accessory. You won't have to worry since many sunglasses fit different face types, as long as all the faces you have to take into consideration are adult ones. But since it's a wedding, you could expect children to make an appearance, so have a stock of protective eyewear for children handy.

What are other accessories and equipment that you should have handy for outdoor weddings? Well, keeping a canopy tent would be a good idea. If the wedding will be held in a location where the weather is particularly unpredictable, you may find that your entire guest list needs a roof over its head all of a sudden - perhaps due to the bright sunlight, or of the rainfall. Arches and gazebos may be more common than tents in weddings, but having a tent handy would not be too bad. You can avoid purchasing or renting eyesore tents by getting something like a canopy tent, which has removable canvas walls.

The bride and groom may express some fear that having their guests sunglasses will ruin family photos, candid shots and the like. If this is the case, they may opt to buy more stylish sunglasses, so that photos aren't ruined by clunky eyewear obscuring half of their guests' faces! And of course, if we're going to talk style, the bride & groom sunglasses have to be the most elegant and attention-catching ones in the room. Even if they won't get to wear them, you must make sure that the ones that are handy are not at all cheap and awkward-looking! Designer sunglasses would make for an excellent gift. A matching set of limited edition sunglasses could be a wedding memorabilia that a loving couple could treasure for a lifetime.

Sunglassology.com gives you the latest in sun glasses, like bride & groom sunglasses and much more. Come take a look at http://www.sunglassology.com

Maid of Honor Speech - A Bride's Best Friend's Speech

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The history of Maid of Honor Speech

In every marriage we all would have seen a girl accompanying the bride and this girl is called the maid of honor. The girl is usually the bride's best friend. This concept of maid of honor has a history attached to it. They were first seen in England and were basically junior attendants to Queens. The maid of honor is usually a girl of 16 years or above. This tradition has spread to USA from England. The maid of honor usually gives a speech at the time of wedding and it generally contains wishing good luck to the couples who are to be married.

Duties That a Maid of Honor Must Perform.

The first thing to do would be to select the dresses for the bride (especially wedding gown) and for the maid of honor herself. The next thing would be to help address invitations, decorate ceremony and reception locations. The next thing could be to help the bride to get dressed in a neat and a beautiful way. Then the maid of honor could hold the bride's bouquet at the ceremony. The next thing that a maid of honor should do is to keep the bride's ring till the ring exchange is over. The most important thing that a maid of honor does is signing the marriage certificate as a witness. Then she could help the best man to bring the gifts to the bride. Then she could dance with the best man. The last thing that she could do is to help cleaning the reception area.

Guidelines for a Maid of Honor Speech:

A Maid of Honor Speech could contain the following things.

First maid of honor should address the gathering. Then she could introduce herself to the people present in wedding ceremony and then congratulate the couple. Then she could thank the couple for asking her to be a part of the marriage ceremony. She could speak about the time period for which she has known the couple. She could speak about the bride alone or she could talk about both the bride as well as the bridegroom. Then she could speak about the love between the couples, how it started, how it blossomed and things of that kind.

She could reveal the place where the couple met for the first time. She could speak how she felt when they both had expressed their love for each other. Then she could speak about her various experiences with the couple. She could talk about the various good qualities of both the bride and the bridegroom. She could describe the love that the bride has for the bridegroom. If the couple had any understanding then she could mention it in a line and then describe how they overcame their misunderstandings. Then she could give some kind of an advice for the couple to have a happy married life. Then she could finish her speech in a poetic way.

There are some dos and don'ts while giving the maid of honor speech and they are as follows. People who are nervous of speaking before a crowd could use some kind of notes as babbling would spoil the occasion. The speech shouldn't have any negative aspect to it.

For more tips, techniques and general advice on how to do a great Maid of Honor Speech, go to the Maid of Honor Speech site.

Classical Wedding Ceremony Music For You To Walk Down The Aisle

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The music played before and during your wedding ceremony tends to be much softer than the music that will be played at your reception. After all, no-one will be dancing during your ceremony. Classical wedding songs and ballads are typically played while the guests are waiting.

When the Music Plays

Proper wedding etiquette states you should choose at least five songs to be played when the guests are being seated as a prelude. There should be a special song for when the bride and groom's mothers are seated. During the processional, there is a song played when the bridesmaids begin their walk down the aisle and the more dramatic song is used when the bride makes her appearance to begin her journey down the aisle to meet her dashing groom who awaits her.

You can also choose special songs that can be played at different points during the ceremony. You may have a favorite hymn, or want to remember a loved one with a heartfelt song. You can also have music specially chosen by the bride and groom to be played when the rings and the vows are exchanged, a unity candle is lit or during any other religious rituals.

The most joyous music is saved for when the ceremony is completed and the bride and groom are ready to make their way back up the aisle as they are warmly congratulated by their guests. The church or venue where you have chosen to have the ceremony may have standard music they play, but you can ask that other selections be played instead.

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Music

Some of the songs played during the prelude can be A Wedding Thank You. This is a lovely and gentle tune that will be appreciated by your guests as they wait for the big moment to arrive. Another beautiful song that is typically played while the guest awaits the appearance of the bride is To Our Family and Friends. It expresses the bride and groom's appreciation to the guests for coming to witness such a joyous event in their lives.

Processional in D is the perfect song to play when your bridesmaids begin their walk down the aisle, or it can be played during the prelude. The Gift Without A Bow is a beautiful and romantic song that will fit right in for the prelude. Heaven Knows is a lovely song from a groom to his lovely bride and will be an ideal addition to your classical wedding ceremony music.

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A Groom's Gift to his Bride

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One of the loveliest wedding traditions involves the special gifts that the bride and groom exchange before the wedding. The wedding gifts are usually presented either the night before the wedding in person, or by sending it to where the bride or groom is getting ready right before the ceremony. The latter is particularly common in the case of the groom's gift to his bride. Of course the options are endless, but the right gift should be personal, romantic, and timeless. That is why the most popular gift for the bride is jewelry; not only is it all three of those things, but the perfect piece will also take her breath away.

Choosing wedding jewelry to present as a gift can be difficult. It is important that the groom understands that the bride may not wear the piece he has given her during the marriage ceremony. Gentlemen, please do not be offended by this! What men often do not realize is that most brides will already have their wedding jewelry planned by this point. Whether she will be wearing a family heirloom or new bridal jewelry that she has carefully selected to coordinate with her gown, it is likely that the bride has already purchased or borrowed all of her accessories.

This is not to say that a groom should not give his bride-to-be a fabulous piece of jewelry as a wedding gift. Not at all - women love to receive jewelry! It always makes them feel cherished and more beautiful. The sentimental nature of jewelry is another reason why it is an unbeatable choice. If you would be very disappointed not to see that special necklace or pair of earrings adorning your bride as she walks down the aisle, there are some things that you can do. Drop hints to your fiancee that she is not to purchase any wedding jewelry. You may think that this will ruin the surprise, but believe me, your bride will love the anticipation of waiting to receive your very special gift. Then, enlist her mother or a bridesmaid to help you select the wedding jewelry. That way, you can be sure that the necklace, earrings, or bracelet will be perfect with the bride's gown.

If you prefer to keep the wedding gift a complete surprise, there are a couple of other ways that you can present it to your bride. A wonderful option is to give it to her the afternoon before the wedding. As she is getting dressed for the rehearsal dinner, take a moment to give her that tiny little box (this is why we say that good things come in small packages!), and to say a couple of romantic words. That way she can wear your gift to the rehearsal dinner even if it does not work for the day of the wedding. Another fabulous idea would be to have the gift sent to her right before the ceremony with a note saying how excited you are to see her wear the jewelry on your honeymoon.

The wedding gifts that a bride and groom give one another will always be remembered. It is a great way for the groom to show the bride how much he looks forward to starting their life together. A piece of wedding jewelry is something that the bride will love for years after the wedding, as it will always remind her of the romance of that very special day

Bridget Mora writes about jewelry,weddings and fashion for http://www.silverlandjewelry.com

Select from custom handcrafted Swarovski crystal necklaces and a wide selection of pearl bridal jewelry at SilverlandJewelry Pearl earrings are a favorite choice for bridesmaid gifts.

Mothers of the Bride: How to Find the Perfect Look for the Big Event

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These days, weddings are some of the most fashionable affairs anywhere. The bride is breathtaking, the bridesmaids are stunning, and the groom and his groomsmen are handsome and polished.

But let's not forget about the mother-of-the bride.

The proud matriarch deserves to look her best at this monumental event, as well. So here are some gorgeous choices for the mother-of-the bride.

Two-Piece Stretch Taffeta Outfit

This sapphire-colored taffeta ensemble is both modern and elegant. The ruffled neckline is the most distinguishing characteristic of this short-sleeve top with jeweled buttons. The other piece is a flattering stretch trumpet skirt which is simple and comfortable.

One-Shoulder Sueded Charmeuse Side Drape Dress

For the mother who wants to look almost as stunning as her daughter, the dramatic one-shoulder neckline features a side drape that creates a slimming silhouette. The dress is made of soft-sueded gold charmeuse, which accentuates all the right curves.

3/4 Brocade Jacket & Chiffon Pant Set

This is ideal for the mother of the bride who prefers something other than an opulent dress. The three-quarter length heather-colored brocade jacket with three-button front is accented beautifully with a black ribbon at the waist. The black pants are constructed of comfy and versatile chiffon.

Shantung Short Bolero Jacket Dress

This outfit has more wear-again appeal than most mother-of-the-bride dresses available today. The slimming shantung above-the-knee dress has a tank silhouette and a ruched waist and comes in eggplant or silver. It can be worn with or without the bolero jacket and its uniquely ruffled neckline.

Portrait Collar Knit Dress with Lace Skirt

This outfit reveals the perfect blend of sophistication and edginess. The black knit bodice features an attractive portrait collar which extends off the shoulders. It contrasts nicely with the slim lace skirt, which is artfully beaded.

Two Piece Floral Jacquard Suit with Rosette Detail

This two-piece selection is for the woman who is seeking a more traditional look. The entire outfit is made of stylish silver jacquard fabric with a radiant floral print. The three-quarter length jacket features a rosette detail on the singular button along with a portrait collar, while the knee-length skirt is flattering and slimming.

Side-Draped Tank Jersey Dress with 3/4 Jacket

For the lady who desires comfort without sacrificing appearance, this dress's relaxing jersey fabric in gorgeous eggplant is carefully fashioned with a tank bodice and a goddess-like side drape. Rhinestones trim the three-quarter length jacket to give the outfit a dash of dazzle.

Satin Twill Bolero and Mock Two-Piece Dress with Beaded Detail

This almond-colored ensemble provides a classic and sophisticated look. The three-quarter sleeve bolero is made of satin twill and is adorned with beaded detail. It covers a spaghetti strap chiffon dress with ruched detail on the top, and the modern skirt will flatter any woman's body.

Chiffon Tier One-Shoulder Dress with Scarf

Sometimes, the mother-of-the-bride wants to turn a few heads as well. This purple, ankle-length chiffon tiered dress with a divine one-shoulder design will accomplish that. The scarf can be carried, worn, or converted into a flattering cover up.

Long Chiffon Beaded Waist Dress

Its ivory color and its classic lines evoke images of stately Greek goddesses. The beautifully-beaded bodice accentuates the waistline and nicely complements the flattering A-line dress. It has dainty double spaghetti straps which can be easily adjusted to fit any body size, and the outfit is topped off with a charming scarf.

Three Quarter Sleeve Shantung Short Jacket Dress

This is ideal for the mother-of-the-bride who prides herself on keeping up with the most modern trends. The most distinctive feature is the majestic mandarin collar with beaded accents on the three-quarter sleeve bolero jacket. The knee-length shantung sleeveless tank dress, which is available in blue or light mocha, is gracefully embellished at the waist.

One Piece Metallic Chiffon Halter Dress with Scarf

It's perfect for a wedding that is full of glamour and opulence. This pewter-silver halter dress showcases the shoulders, and the metallic chiffon is lovely and comfortable. A beaded buckle accents the ruched waistband to help slim the figure, and the scarf can be added to create a unique look.

Taffeta Mock Two-Piece with 3/4 Sleeve

The fabric of this pleasing dress is a polyester/nylon/spandex blend and is available in sapphire, pewter, and magenta. The side-ruched top features a joyful portrait collar and three-quarter length sleeves. A long flowing skirt and brooch and jeweled pin detail at the waist complete the look.

Two-Piece Short Shantung Tank Dress with Jacket

This rose-colored outfit cleverly combines a short dress with a long jacket. The long-sleeve jacket drops to the knees and features a flower on the lapel. The sleeveless shantung dress falls to just above the knee.

In the past, many mother-of-the bride dresses have been frumpy, gaudy, or uncomfortable. But today, the devoted mother has plenty of ways to make a fashion statement as well. And that's important - because all eyes will be on her when she is escorted down the aisle ahead of her daughter.

Chris Morrison is a freelance writer who writes about weddings and specific products such as mother of the bride dresses.

Comfortable Wedding Shoes - Jimmy Choo Shoes For the Bride

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Jimmy Choo bridal shoes make one understand the qualities required to become a part of a girl's dreams. The comments on Choo shoes never seem to stop. The cause for curiosity could be the comfort, for which it's designed, starts with a big and capital C. All apprehensions about wearing heels would vanish once the pair from Jimmy Choo appears. Other cause for curiosity could be the class and charm the pair from Choo carries are apparently captivating. Choo bridal shoes are not only comfortable and fit the wearer like a T, it also has the power to make a statement of luxury and high fashion.

All Jimmy Choo bridal shoes have few distinctive similar attributes. The first striking similarity can be observed in 3inches of heels each of them has, since one is expected to look tall and slim. The bridal collection shoes are normally available in the shades of white or ivory. The designed Jimmy Choo bridal shoes have varying styles. The said collection could be peep toe slingbacks, sandals, elegant looking ankle in shoes and traditional classic pumps. Elegance is noticeable in straps which are skimpy. The common binding factor of Choo shoes is their sleek, ladylike appearance.

Jimmy Choo has mad an exception to make a pair of pink strappy shoe with pink diamante for the venturesome variety of the clientele. The shoes could exhibit a spectrum of colors from the reflection of the light falling on the diamante. The bridal walk's effect must be effective enough to make the bride look like a princess and hence feel like one.

Jimmy Choo shoes do not come cheap - the starting range of 500 US dollars can end at a rate of above 1000 US dollars. The style factor and the details on the pair have the most influence on the price. The varieties of the offered details include the said diamante and Swarovski crystals. The material for the bridal shoes may be made of leather with silk and satin.

There are any numbers of brides who only dream of wearing Jimmy Choo shoes for their wedding as they cannot afford it. Here is an opportunity for such dreamers to make their dreams a reality by getting Choo shoes at price they can afford. We are not trying to sell them with a fake one - they will receive the original but not a brand new pair. At times, a newlywed wants to dispose her once worn designer bridal pair at a cheaper price. Such offers are available on auction sites online.

Yet, there are many who would not like to go for a used pair for a special occasion like their wedding and are reluctant to go for the new one considering it to be a luxury. To help such prospective brides to make a positive decision, they should see their wedding as really a big and special occasion worthy of such luxury. After all, apart from comfort and class the pair offers, it would be the prized possession for many years. Visualizing walking down the aisle with feet secured in Jimmy Choo designer bridal shoes on the wedding day might help one to make the decision.

For more information on Vera Wang wedding shoes as well as why wedding shoes are very important to you visit http://www.bridalweddingshoe.com, the top resource portal by the bridal expert.

Mother of the Bride Dress Colors for Spring 2008

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The special occasion dress manufacturers will be introducing their spring/summer lines from January through April. The spring and summer season are when mothers of the bride and groom begin to look for a special gown to wear to their daughter or son's wedding. They are in a "panic" mode as in the hustle and bustle of the wedding preparation, they tend to overlook searching for their own formal gowns.

Mother of the bride gowns this spring 2008 will still feature rich fabrics with names like shantique, hammered shimmer, brocade, hi twist crepe, satin, etc. Lace is still available but mostly as accents or forming one part of the gown for interest. Beads, rhinestones, and embroidery are always a must for formal gowns as these add the sparkle and uniqueness to the outfit, separating a regular dress from a special occasion one. These fabrics are made of polyester blends which will retain its shape and are generally wrinkle-free. Mothers of the bride and groom surely do not want their dresses to pull and crinkle while performing their individual duties.

For spring of 2008, the mother of the bride and gown manufacturers are introducing interesting colors like glacier, aqua, sea breeze, and cinnamon. Sage and dust rose are always popular from one year to the next and these are the staple colors for this spring as well. Tried and true colors of champagne, burgundy, silver, gold, navy, and black, are still very much in style as these are the basic colors that will look good not only for the wedding but can be worn to any other social occasion.

Mother of the bride dresses are very competitively priced with the traditional bridal stores and many gowns are priced for very much less. Additionally for online bridal stores, you can shop for the color that you wish to wear by typing in the color or its variation, in the "search box" of the website. Every good website should have this feature which shows a blank box for you to type in the keyword you desire. Online stores usually carry the current season's styles as they have the real-time capability to post the latest mother of the bride dress styles and delete the ones that are no longer in stock or sold out.

This spring 2008, mother of the bride and groom dresses are offered in "youthful" styles. Long gone is the dowdy looking mother of the bride. Check out the 2008 styles by Karen Miller, Scala, Cachet, and Ursula as they pave the way for trendier and upbeat styles.

Audrey's Mother of the Bride (website: http://www.audreysmotherofthebride.com) offer these styles in affordable prices and with wide size selections. They cater especially to the plus size or full figure mother of the bride and groom. Petite sizes are also available.

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

The Most Flattering Mother-Of-The-Bride Dresses

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1. The mock two-piece dress with A-line skirt.

This is the most flattering form of the mother of the bride dress. The dress has a bodice which attaches to the skirt, giving the illusion that you are wearing two-pieces but you are not. The skirt is a flattering "A" and covers any lumps and bumps and wide hips beautifully. The bodice usually has an overlay that will hide the stomach area. These two features of the mock-two-piece dress should be the top choice for a mother of the bride outfit.

2. The dress with a jacket - jacket can be long or short.

Jackets are not only great for a colder day but it hides unflattering arms that are not quite toned. The sides of the jacket also camouflages wider hips and waistlines and the result is a sleeker look, while making the mother of the bride gown look more formal and dressy. Plus size mothers will benefit from a longer and boxy design to hide hips, while thinner one will want to try the shorter bolero styles that are more fitted and youthful.

3. The cocktail or knee-length dress.

The cocktail dress is great as it is a no fuss look for the garden or informal wedding. No need to worry about dragging that dress and ruining it lifting the hemline up while you take that walk across the hallway or soiled path. Better yet, the cocktail dress has another life to another great party where a special occasion dress is needed.

4. The "black dress."

This is a no brainer and no longer taboo. Which color is so universally appealing and flattering at the same time? It camouflages the parts no one wants you to see while slenderizing you till whoever looks back at you in the mirror is really you, but better. Black goes with everything, be it the turquoise jewelry, the orange shoes, or even the tablecloth.

5. The pantsuit with palazzo pants.

Pantsuits are the rave now. Mother of the brides are no longer tied to a pretty and charming dressy dress. Pantsuits are now so allowed at weddings, like they are allowed at a job. A three-piece ensemble of a jacket, blouse, and loose fitting pants, reflects class, style and uniqueness at the same time. The mother of the bride can perform her numerous duties without worrying about how her dress falls and whether it could possibly drag on the floor.

6. The halter neck gown.

Say no more. The youngish mother with the beautiful shoulders and toned arms can now show them off with a halter neck mother's gown. If the neck is not too plunging and the back not too low and bare, I say why not wear a halter neck gown? No other outfit makes a mother feel young, attractive and desirable like wearing this style.

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

Bride's Father Speech - Important Tips on Giving the Bride's Father Speech

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Apart from the groom's speech and the best man's speech, the most important speech of the evening is the bride's father speech. Aside from wishing everyone "health and happiness, especially the bride and groom," this is the moment for the father to shine, to wax humorous, reminiscent and in particular, sentimental. It's okay, father of the bride, to shed a tear or too as you gain a son.

The humor should be kept clean, out of respect for younger and older guests. Remember, dad, that you are not at the dinner table tonight, and your bride's father speech might end up on video. But, a little lighthearted humor will be welcomed by most. If you find you can't do the opening remarks to your bride's father speech and do it justice (in other words, if you just aren't funny, no matter how hard you try), then go ahead and turn the crowd warming up to either the best man, or a professional. The pressure relief you feel from hiring a professional should to much to counteract the lightening of your wallet to have him there for you.

Then, when you feel comfortable at taking over the reigns and carrying on with the bride's father speech yourself, then before you get to the blessing of the lovely couple, you want to hand out a few welcoming comments to the parents of the groom, all the relatives, and the guests along the fringe of familial ties. Then, don't forget the highlight of your bride's father speech: talking about your daughter herself. Reminisce with her, bringing everyone up to speed from her birth to her wedding in as brief a time as possible. Let everyone know the ties that bind the two of you together are eternal. Finally, bless her and show her new husband your appreciation as you turn her care over to him.

So, dad, how do you get through that event without any longlasting trauma? You'll want to be well prepared, obviously. Do that by writing your notes for your bride's father speech down at least a week to ten days before the wedding day. Rehearse the speech up to seven days before, so you won't have to use the notes fully as a crutch. During your bride's father speech, it is utterly important not to forget to acknowledge the groom's parents for their contributions, be it time, gifts, arrangements, whatever.

Of course, you'll want to be relaxed about the whole affair, no matter how it seems impossible. During the speech, you want to leave the audience with just a taste, so that they will want more. This will make your speech a memorable success. Don't give it all away. Keep some memories of the bride sacred, but give a hint as to her greatness, and her specialness to you. This is, after all, the highlight of any bride's father speech.

Keep the speech short, subtle, honest and fair. You want to include everyone in the room, individually or in groups, when you hand out the compliments. Make everyone there feel special to you, because they are. Your reward is when you count all the smiles in return.

How long should your bride's father speech take to give? You could go by one of two rules. Stop when either the audience is drooling and snoring in their sleep, or at around five minutes, whichever comes first. At the most minor hint of a yawn from anyone, start wrapping things up.

Everything else about the wedding is paid for ... the flowers, the service, the limousines, the dinner, the wedding dress and so on. Why leave one of the most important parts of the entire wedding celebrations in the hands of an inexperienced speech writer.

Giving a speech is hard enough, but having to write it as well is sometimes just too much of to ask from a bride's father. That is why we recommend that you purchase a professionally written bride's father speech and then make some minor changes to personalize it.

If you do feel like you need some professional assistance then you should definitely check out the professionally written bride's father speeches available at http://www.Need-A-Speech.com.

Use Jokes to Make Your Father of the Bride Speech More Absorbing

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You will be amazed to discover how father of the bride speech jokes or simply father of the bride jokes could help you present a really outstanding wedding speech at your daughter's wedding reception.

It's not always easy to squeeze out time to get ready for your wedding speech if you are the father of the bride at a wedding. But as the bride's father it is customary that you give a speech. It's a ritual that you can hardly avoid by giving an excuse. In fact it's the father of the bride who presents the inaugural wedding speech. You will then be followed by the groom, the best man, the maid of honors and others who would then stand up and deliver their respective wedding speeches one by one.

Now, let's see how you can use father of the bride jokes to make your speech stand out. Generally, a bride's father's speech is heartfelt and sentimental. It's typically somber in nature. But since humor rarely fails you can consider using a few suitable father of the bride speech jokes to make it more interesting. The audience is going to love it. A short speech where you thank the guests, welcome the groom to your family, praise your daughter and then blend it up with some father of the bride jokes. I think you have got the idea.

You can search the internet for wedding and marriage jokes that you can use in your speech. There is no scarcity of them on the internet. All you need to do is choose the ones you think perfect and use them wisely.

Below are a few examples of father of the bride speech jokes that I like most. Hopefully you are going to like them too and use them in your father of the bride speech.

- Getting married is very much like going to a restaurant with friends. You order what you want, then when you see what the other fellow has, you wish you had ordered that. But, that doesn't apply to Julia.

- Ron, every man should remember that a happy marriage is a matter of give and take; the husband gives and the wife takes. Don't say that I didn't warn you.

- A perfect wife is one who helps the husband with the dishes. Ron, it's my pleasure to hand over a perfect wife to you.

- Ron here's an advice for you. It's from an experienced husband and a father of a daughter. If you ever discover that your credit card was stolen think before you decided to report it ... may be the thief is spending less than your wife.

While using father of the bride jokes in your speech make sure you customize it to fit in the situation you are in. All the four father of the bride jokes are not very common and you could find them in more than one place if you browse through the internet. But you should edit it in such a way so that it sounds as if they are originally yours.

Adam Rogers is a Web content writer who writes mainly on relationship issues including marriages and weddings. To learn more about father of the bride jokes and other related articles on father of the bride speeches, you can visit the Web site.

Mother of Bride Wedding Speech Guidelines - What Brilliant Wedding Speeches Are Composed Of!

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Have you ever thought about what a really brilliant mother of bride wedding speech should be made up of? You can't escape the fact that you will be speaking for your daughter's wedding. Your daughter is posed to start out a different chapter of her life, a chapter where she has to responsibly and dutifully experience. You know that you will be invited to talk during the wedding program, to mention some things about a mother's contributions to the bride's younger days, definitive moments and well-rounded growth.

The feeling that you have shared yourself, that feeling of being blissful and pride for your beloved daughter - this is what can motivate you to write and present your own great wedding speech!

Why do you suppose you are giving time and energy to be able to come up with a mother of bride wedding speech which is substantive and also entertaining?

You are aware for sure that this is no contest within which you'll be expecting a reward as the best wedding speaker. All the same, you still want to present a motherly message which will become unforgettable for the audience, as an expression of how you treasure people special to you! We share the same sentiments about this matter. And for that reason, I'm sure you'll see that the points I am sharing in this article will help you in different ways to compose your mother of bride speech and toast:

Guidelines to Composing Brilliant Mother of Bride Wedding Speeches

• We have a saying that goes, "Great things start from small steps." Develop several drafts of your speech. And then, you'll have some things to polish up to become your final message.


• When you write your drafts, always think about three parts of your message - the introduction, the body, and ending part. This way, you will know if you are on the right track, and easily determine what you may miss out on.


• It is also very crucial that you set all these components of your message under one single theme. Because you are using a theme, you do not have to worry much about linking details of your speech to one another.


• It is not that difficult to have an entertaining speech. To throw in some humor, try recalling a funny story involving your daughter, or what you've known about your daughter's groom or about both of them. However, if you suppose it may embarrass the new couple, I immediately conclude that you are correct - and don't ever tell such story anymore.


• Now let's go to putting in some feelings. For mothers of brides-to-be, this may be the easy part. Just say what you mean. You don't have to pay much attention to putting emotions for your true intention is to convey a message. All the emotions will carry through in manners you may not even expect.


• A carefully chosen love quotation will surely help you in keeping your speech meaningful. The quotation should be something which sums up the relationship or experiences of the newly-weds. Or, this may closely be related to what you intend them to learn about marital life, about what they can expect when they start making a family of their own.

Now, maybe you are thinking, "How am I supposed to write a mother of bride wedding speech such as this?"

A sure fire way to write the best wedding speech for your daughter's grand event is to review quality mother of bride speech and toast samples from http://www.bestmotherofthebridespeeches.com. The site prides itself with carefully selected and professionally written wedding speech samples created exclusively for the bride's mother. No need to worry about developing messages with the proper mix of content, wit and feelings, for the wedding speech pack all have these! These samples only require name change and they're ready to go. Access your exclusive mother of bride wedding speech and toast samples right now.