Wedding Seating Charts 101

Planning who will sit where at your wedding can be a huge headache. With that said, here are some tips to help make creating your seating chart a little easier to deal with:

• Take your time. Don't think you'll be able to complete this task the night before your wedding; it could take a while. Taking your time to make sure all guests are in the right spot will create a more pleasant reception for all.
• Categorize. Are you keeping a master guest list? If so, group each guest in of the following categories: wedding party, groom's family, bride's family, coupled/married friends, single friends, guests with kids and people with known, lasting conflicts.
• Create a plan. Take out a sheet of paper, and plan how the tables will be arranged, and include the bride or head table (or you can find a template online). If you'll be determining where each table will be placed, put yourself in a position where all guests can see you, leave enough space for dancing, and consider foot traffic.
• Begin with you. The first thing you need to do is decide who will be joining you and your new spouse at the head table. Some couples include the entire bridal party, some sit with their parents and others sit by themselves. It's completely up to you and depends on your venue as well. If you choose to have the wedding party sit separately, consider putting them all at one or two tables with their significant others.

For more tips on creating your seating chart, check out Seating Charts 101 - Putting Everyone in Their Place.

5 Ways to Find Wedding Vendors

By S. Cohen


When planning your wedding, every single detail really counts. At the end of the day, the final outcome of the celebration really lies in the hands of the vendors you choose. A bride can have the most thought out suggestions and plans, but if your vendors are not capable of carrying out those expressed ideas, they mean nothing.

We have come up with some of the greatest ways to find wedding vendors in your area. Remember that each suggestion in itself is not meant to stand alone. A bride should really take advantage of all of the resources that exists in finding the right florist, photographer, caterer, etc.

1. Friends and Family. Your friends and family are an extremely valuable planning resource. They extend your reach of wedding knowledge more than you know. Each has attended or planned a wedding more recently than you think. So even if they only have a few bits of information, it all adds up to more than you had before. They can provide you with numbers, names and references before ever having to speak with a vendor. Ask, ask, ask!

2. Wedding Websites. Many wedding websites allow you to search by wedding location to find recommended vendors. Many offer packages of choices for you to sift through -- some with pictures and websites to look at. Please keep in mind, however, that many of these spots are purchased ads. Therefore, while a great place to get vendor leads, make sure to use your own research. You can also find sites that allow brides to give honest reviews of vendors they have used, visited with or seen at another wedding, which will give you honest (and not paid) reviews.

3. Wedding Discussion Boards and Blogs. The Internet has become an amazing place to look for wedding vendors. Many wedding websites have bridal blogs and discussion boards that allow brides to chat about their experiences and share details about the vendors they have spoken to or used. Don't be shy to ask questions!

4. Wedding Magazines. There are many magazines that are created for specific geographic locations. Many feature local weddings, therefore if you flip through and find centerpieces you really like for instance, look in the picture credits. You might find that the florist featured is around the block.

5. Wedding Reception Location. Your wedding location should be the first thing that you choose when planning a wedding. This is probably your largest expense and will really set the tone for what you have left to spend on the rest of your vendors. This will also allow you to use your location as a resource. Ask your hotel, hall, etc. if they have a list of preferred vendors.
         Most places will have this. These vendors all have established relationships with your chosen location, which is very important. For example, a preferred photographer will be lighting-prepared and know the best shots to take in a specific location. Please keep in mind, however, that this should only be one component of your choice. Often, there can be other contributing factors (politics) as to why they have been added to this list. But, all in all, this is a good list to have and use.

While the above suggestions help in the direction of finding vendors, it is once you actually sit down with each that you will realy get a true opinion of them. Look at their pictures, hear demo tapes and call references, and remember, no bride is ever bothered to speak about her wedding!

5 Tips on Registering for Wedding Gifts

Register early. This should be one of the first tasks you undertake after getting engaged. Often, loved ones will want to begin purchasing wedding gifts as soon as you say, "Yes." So, take the guesswork out of buying gifts by being sure that they know what you want. You don't need to have it completed immediately, but you should have a selection for guests to look through.

Do it as a couple. Visiting the stores together is essential -- the gifts are for you both. So, to determine what you need, take inventory of what you have, and figure out where you have gaps. Discuss what home style you want, and divide the final say to make it fair. For example, maybe you'll choose the electronics, and he decides on the kitchen items.

Register for what you want. Don't feel like you absolutely should register for flatware and china. Feel free to add whatever things will make your new house a home, whether they are appliances, electronics or even exercise equipment.

Also, think about how you live. Try not to add things you know you won't use. For instance, if you aren't formal party type of people, you probably don't need a crystal punch bowl. Additionally, be really sure before registering for anything that's monogrammed. Once you have your name on it, you likely won't be able to return it.

Determine the store's return policies. It's always smart to ask about a store's exchange/return policies. A great thing about many wedding registry retailers: They have awesome customer service to assist to-be-weds. So, knowing the store's return and exchange time frames will help you better prepare and manage your registry.

Need more tips? Check out 10 Tips on Registering for Wedding Gifts.

Simple Ways to Prevent Wedding Insanity

Let's face it: Wedding planning is a lot of work. And with all the responsibilities and choices you have to make, you can see how some brides and grooms get consumed in the little details. So, how can you regain focus on what matters? By taking a step back from the planning process. Check out these tips that will help you restore your sanity:

Proclaim a wedding-free weekend. For a whole 48 hour time-period, act like you're the two people you were before getting engaged (and while you're at it, remind yourselves of why you actually wanted to get married to each other initially). Also, there can be no wedding planning and no fighting. Just hang out, have some fun, laugh and flirt.

Have a night out with friends. With all the togetherness that comes with being future bide and groom, you need to remind yourselves that you're individuals. So, head out for a night of fun with your respective same-sex crew (with no wedding talk). Take advantage of your future spouse not being around by doing things he or she doesn't like to do, like watching chick flicks, getting a manicure or hitting the arcade. Then the next day, entertain each other with stories of what happened.

Go on a fancy date. More than likely, you've been saving every extra nickel for 'The Budget.' If you've been doing well so far, treat yourselves by spending a little cash. Reserve a table at the fanciest restaurant in town, and go all out. Later, head out to a jazz club or lounge.

Go for a drive. Choose a weekend afternoon, and "head for the open road." A few ideas: Visit that spot a few towns over that you've been meaning to go to; play road games like, Who Can Spot the Most Out-of-State License Plates"; buy a souvenir at a highway truck stop.

For four more tips, check out Stress: 8 Easy Ways to Prevent Wedding Insanity.


[Photo Credit]

Wedding Theme Ideas

Need a theme for your wedding but don't have a clue where to start? Here are a few to consider:

• If you want a really romantic event, think about having your wedding on Valentine's Day or having a Valentine's Day theme.
• Want a wedding fit for a queen (and king)? Try a formal wedding.
• Are you, as a couple, really laid back and want a family vibe? Have a casual wedding.
• If you want to feel like glamorous celebrities, consider a Hollywood Glamour Theme.
• If you love nature and the outdoors, think about having a nature-inspired, eco-friendly theme.
  

For more ideas and tips, check out Wedding Themes and Styles.

Photo Credit

Cake Cutting Songs

One of the most romantic times during the wedding is the cake-cutting. It's the first task the couple handles as husband and wife! Lots of brides and grooms want certain songs played during this ceremony.

The music establishes the tone for the scene, and it will create a lifelong memory with both the couple and their guests. Check out some of the most common cake cutting songs: Most Popular Cake Cutting Songs.

Photo Credit

Tips for Bridal Lingerie

While your wedding gown is the most important thing you'll be wearing on your wedding day (besides the ring, of course), you don't need to forget about what you're wearing underneath. Here are some tips to make sure you look absolutely fabulous at all times:

• Choose a bra with great support. On your big day, your lingerie needs to be like a great friend-- supportive. The primary role of your lingerie? To give support so that you're comfortable and confident at all times. Your bra needs to be able to handle posing for photos, hugging and dancing.
• Know your size. The key to discovering the ideal fit that will support you from the ceremony to the reception is wearing the right-sized bra. If you're not sure what size you wear, visit a local lingerie shop or a store like Victoria's Secret to get a bra fitting.
• Don't forfeit style. You don't have to give up comfort for beauty. Your lingerie needs to reflect your individual style and make you feel confident.
• Prepare for the honeymoon. Don't forget about the lingerie you'll likely need for other occasions, such as your rehearsal dinner and the honeymoon.

Source

Wedding Budget Do's and Don'ts

Whatever your wedding budget is, there are certain things you should and shouldn't do. Read on for tips on saving money the right way:

Do hire a caterer who'll allow you to supply your own alcoholic beverages.

Don't have a cash bar.

Do cut your guest list in a sensible way.

Don't "accidentally" forget to invite your annoying cousin.

Do negotiate with your vendors.

Don't demand discounts from vendors.

Do book a photographer for her time minimum to shoot the ceremony and family shots. Also, ask friends to take party photos.

Don't ask your 17-year-old niece to be in charge of photographs.

Do connect an iPod to speakers. Create fabulous playlists, rent a good sound system, and bring an extra iPod.

Don't hire your brother's garage band to get the party going.

Do avoid unncessary details such as elaborate favors and napkin rings.

Don't hold back on food and drinks. Hungry and thirsty guests aren't happy ones.

Source- Brides Magazine, January 2011; Photo Credit

Incorporate Your Background Into Your Wedding

If you want to honor your background and heritage at your wedding, there are several ways to do so:

Pay tribute to your ancestors. One way to do this is find out what your parents, grandparents and great-grandparents did at their weddings. Then, select an element from each of them to replicate at your own. For instance, your centerpieces can mirror the ones your parents had. This can also be a chance for you to find out about hubby-to-be's family and to include relatives from both sides in the planning process.

Have diverse treats. Create a "goody station" with desserts from all the countries that are a part of your heritage. Place small flags or description cards so guests will know which treats came from where. You can also let guests take some goodies home with them.

Establish your own traditions. Another option is to begin a continuing tradition that only you and your spouse do starting on your wedding day. For instance, you could slip a cute love note to one another right before the ceremony begins, and do it each anniversary.

Source; Photo Credit

How to keep your sanity when wedding planning

Planning a wedding can be a very stressful and hectic time for the bride-to-be. In an article on GetMarried.com, Elizabeth Frumin, a therapist and minister with over 25 years of experience, shares advice on how brides can keep their sanity during the planning process in four steps:

1. Breathe and relax
2. Intention
3. Gratitude
4. Love
   

Read the entire article to see how: The Bride's Guide to Keeping Her Sanity.

What You Should Know About Escort Cards

1. Escort cards are sometimes confused with place cards; they designate guests' table assignments. Place cards tell guests exactly where to sit.
2. They are sometimes referred to as "table-assignment cards" or "seating cards." Whichever term you use is fine.
3. Place escort cards in alphabetical order according to guests' last names. Put them near the entrance to the cocktail-hour location (not by the door) or in the middle of the venue, so guests can come from all sides.
4. One escort card will work for a couple since they'll sit at the same table. Otherwise, write out a card for each guest.
5. Use titles like "Mr. John Doe" or "Dr. Jane Doe" at formal weddings. If the wedding is casual, use first and last names only like "John Doe."
   

Source: Brides magazine, June 2010; Photo Credit

Choosing your honeymoon destination

Deciding where to go for your honeymoon can really be a difficult choice. There are so many options to choose from! Here's how to choose one that you and your spouse-to-be will love:

Ask yourself what kind of honeymoon experience you want. Do you want relaxation, culture or an adventure? Whichever you choose, you should also consider the distance and how long you plan to stay; these aspects might affect your final decision. If you and your partner are having a hard time agreeing on the perfect place to go, try to compromise.

Create a budget. And be realistic. Many couples want a little luxury when it comes to their honeymoons. However, if an entire vacation at a five-star resort or hotel is too expensive, consider staying only a few days, and then move to a less expensive location. Additionally, you can register for a honeymoon; this will allow your loved ones to give toward your vacation. One other tip: Pass up pre-packaged honeymoon deals-- they're usually not as flexible and aren't customized to fit your choices.

Consider using a travel agent. They are skilled time-savers that can assist you in simplifying this process. Get recommendations from family and friends, or look for agents who are bonded and members of the American Society of Travel Agents.

Make sure the names on your passports are the same as the ones on your plane tickets. Also, get immunization shots or any needed medication ahead of time, and remember, you may experience jet lag. If you aren't accustomed to traveling, don't plan a day of sight-seeing immediately after getting to your destination. Finally, don't overplan; give yourself enough time to rest and explore.

Source; Photo Credit

Wedding reception seating

With some tact and common sense, you can make a seating plan that will make nearly everyone happy.

You may feel that if you supply enough seats, everybody can determine where to sit on their own. But, if you take the time to create a plan, you'll ease your guests' anxiety of attempting to find a seat, and it ensures that couples who want to sit together can. If you have under 50 people attending your wedding, a detailed plan may not be necessary. Additionally, you could choose to just identify the bridal table with place cards and let other guests seat themselves; some couples choose to have a cocktail party or buffet with few tables, hoping the guests will "alternate" sitting and eating. If you choose to do this, be sure that elderly guests have somewhere to sit-- you could even designate an individual table for them.

So, who sits where?

The bridal table: The newlyweds might sit at a long, rectangluar head table, at a round table in the center or have their own "sweetheart" table. On the other hand, some couples don't have a table at all and leave some empty seats at each table so they can interact during the reception. Typically, the bridal table is set apart from the others by the type of decoration.

Family tables. Usually, the parents of the couple sit opposite of one another at a big family table with grandparents, the officiant and other close friends. Another option: The couple's parents "host" their own tables with their family members and close friends. And when it comes to divorced parents, each parent might host his or her own table which would help prevent discomfort.

Mix or match. When it comes to everyone else, you may be wondering if you should put friends together or put them with people they may not know. You should do a little of both. Yes, it's a good idea to throw in a few new places at every table, but people are more at ease when they know some of the people they're dining with.

Singles vs. Couples. Perhaps you've really been wanting to set your college roomate up with your fiance's best friend. It's okay to discreetly seat them next to one another. One thing you don't want to do is make a separate "singles" table; this may embarrass guests. Additionally, be careful not to place an unmarried friend at a table with a bunch of giddy newlyweds.

Children. If several children are at your reception, seat them together at a separate kids' table. If, however, only the flowergirl and ringbearer are there, they can sit with their parents.

Once you've figured out where everyone will go, you have to choose how you're going to guide them to their seats:

Place cards: These are tented cards, and they can be used by themselves or with escort cards. They are displayed close to the reception entrance in alphabetical order and typically include the guest's name and table number. When they reach the table, guests generally choose where to sit.

Escort cards: These are used in the most formal seating arrangments. They usually have the guest's name on the outer envelope and the table number on the card inside. The place cards on each table indicate where each guest sits.

The seating chart: These are generally displayed alphabetically in a nice frame close to the reception entrance and are lists of the guests' names with their tables. Additional place cards can be used at each table to signify assigned seats.

Do not, under any circumstance, use nametags. Your guests can make any introductions you haven't made beforehand.

Prior to making your seating arrangements, you should get the floor plan and make some copies. By doing this, you can try out different arrangements before you make the final choice. If you have any doubts, trust you instincts. And remember, it doesn't matter how perfect your final plan seems, someone will probably ask you to alter something to make a guest happy. You should try to be accommodating, but don't let it drive you crazy.

Source; Photo Credit

How to handle a rainy wedding day

You've got everything ready for the big day, and everything is going smoothly. Then, oh no! It starts to rain! Of course, they say a rainy wedding day brings good luck, but who wants to deal with that kind of weather?

Here are some tips to help you have a fabulous wedding, even if it rains:

• Having an outdoor ceremony? Be sure there is a tent set up and some umbrellas available for guests.
• Have a trusted bridesmaid, friend or relative carry a "rainy day kit." Include bobby pins, hairspray, makeup and any other necessities that will help you refresh your look if you get rained on.
• If the weather is really bad, think about getting dressed at the ceremony venue rather than at home or in your hotel room. It will be easier for you to maintain your look.
• If you're taking your dress anywhere, be sure to use double plastic covers to protect it.
• Wait until the absolute last minute to put on your shoes. You don't want them to get muddy. Another option: If you're having an outdoor ceremony, you could walk down the aisle in colorful, cute rain boots.
• Contact your vendors, and be sure they are ready for potential rain.
• Have a few ushers escort guests who might not have umbrellas. They will appreciate it.
• If you're getting married at a country club or a similar venue, ask if you can use an indoor banquet room instead of a patio. If the weather doesn't look too good, some venues might be very willing to accommodate you.
• Wear waterproof makeup.
• Keep this French saying in mind: "Mariage pluvieux, mariage heureux," a wet wedding means a happy marriage!

Source; Photo Credit

Winter Wedding Ideas

Planning a winter wedding? Here are five ideas you may not have considered:

1. Colors. Think about using a less-is-more approach when it comes to your color palette. For instance, silver and white with crystal accents can add glamour to your winter wedding. Some ideas for the ceremony: Use a white velvet aisle runner trimmed with white satin ribbon or adorn the altar with a crystal curtain backdrop decorated with hanging strands of elegant white phalaenopsis orchids. If you're getting married oudoors, you can create the ambiece by handing out clear umbrellas to guests as they arrive.


2. Flowers. Yes, red roses and calla lilies are obvious winter wedding flowers, but there are several other options for winter blooms. For example, think about white hydrangeas and soft ranunculses. Additionally, white boutonnieres can look great with a simple white ribbon, and you can add sparkle to your bouquet by wrapping the stems in ribbon and adorned with crystals.


3. Invitations. Winter weddings are typically held indoors, and more formal invitations are often used. Use heavy cardstock and a navy blue, chocolate brown or eggplant font with hand calligraphy to convey a black-tie event. Want a fresh way to create a formal feel for your wedding? Use thick, frosted Plexiglas invitations in white scripted ink. Send them to your guests in silver envelope liners.


4. Centerpieces. To increase the drama, bring the icy outdoors in with ice-carved vases on your reception tables. One idea: Fill vases with tall, winter-white branches and hanging crystals to reflect the light from the tables. Place votive candles around the centerpieces and top your tables with white dupioni table linens and frosted glass china.


5. Escort cards. Make the entire table sparkle! Hand-calligraphy the cards in silver ink and connect them to invidual crystals with a ribbon. Hang each of them from a large crystal candelabra centerpiece for a fresh take on the common escort card tree.

For five more ideas, check out our source.

Photo Credit: Brides.com

Beauty rules all brides should follow

Here are some beauty commandments from TheKnot.com to be sure you look "ridiculously good" on your big day:

1. I will not over-accessorize. Select one memorable piece (like a birdcage veil or heirloom earrings) instead of piling it on. Work simple accessories around it for a balanced look. And remember, your veil, bouquet and the embellishment of your gown are accessories as well.
2. I will play up my best features. You are aware of your best feature, so maximize it! If you have glowing skin, accentuate it with light-reflecting lotion. Open up your beautiful eyes with a few, loose false lashes. Another tip from The Knot: Even if you never wear makeup in real life, think of your wedding day as an exception. A little of bit of mascara, blush and gloss goes a long way in making your features pop in your photos.
3. I will wear metals that match. The accessories you decide to wear should depend on your wedding dress hue. So if you're wearing a bright white gown, don't wear gold (which could clash); wear platinum and/or pearl. For a diamond (slightly off-white) gown, gold and silver works best. And if you're wearing an ivory wedding dress, try gold and warmer metals. One exception: Don't get rid of your engagment ring if it doesn't match.
4. I won't slouch at the ceremony altar. All eyes will be on you at the wedding ceremony so be sure to pull your shoulders back and stand up straight. You want to make sure you look beautiful and confident, not uncomfortable.
5. I will not crash diet. Yes, you may shed a couple of pounds in the weeks before the wedding because of all you have to do and jitters, but think of that as a bonus. Don't try to lose any more than that at the last minute. Crash dieting will wear you out; no number on the scale is worth not being able to handle wedding day demands and enjoying the excitement.

For five more tips, check out our source.

Tips for planning your wedding on a budget

Want to plan a fabulous wedding but don't want to break the bank? Check out the following tips for ways to plan your wedding on a budget:

• Get married in off-season months: January, February, March and November.
• Get married on any day but Saturday.
• If you can't afford a designer gown, think about renting one instead.
• Most big bridal shops have big sales each year. Be sure to take advantage of this.
• Using silk flowers can save you lots of cash, and best of all, they're already preserved. The bride can use fresh flowers, but no one else really needs to.
• You can use silk flowers to decorate the ceremony and reception venues as well.
• Check out dollar stores when shopping for candles and candleholders. Additionally, dollar stores and places like Wal-Mart have many items you can use to decorate.
• Try to choose one person who can do both hair and makeup.
• Hire a caterer that provides everything you'll need such as glassware, plates, tablecloths, etc.
• Try to find a venue that will let you bring your own alcohol.
• Wedding coordinators can save you money; they are aware of additional ways to save money, they know what to say and ask your vendors, and they have connections in the industry.

For more tips, check out General Tips on How to Plan a Wedding, but not go broke!!

DIY Wedding Favors

Want to do some of the wedding crafts for your big day? Consider making your own wedding favors! Not only are they a great way to show your guests how much you appreciate them, they are easy and inexpensive to make.

Your wedding favors can be a momento your guests take home, one your guests can eat before the wedding dinner or something that will help them join in on the celebration like noisemakers.

Some ideas for DIY wedding favors include:

• Candy buffet
• Cookie buffet
• Homemade soap
• Personalized matchboxes
• Homemade activity books (for the kids)
• Scented bath scrub
• Personalized CD
  

For more tips and ideas, visit our source.

4 diet "I don'ts"

Before their big day, many brides want to shed a couple of pounds or lose a few inches, and some will do it by any means necessary. However, that's not such a good idea. Here are four things you should not do when it comes to losing weight for your wedding (or any other time for that matter):

1. Don't skip meals. Skipping one meal frequently leads to overeating at the next one. Instead, eat four to five times per day: maybe three meals and two snacks. Try to include foods that are rich in protein and fiber (such as an apple or a handful of nuts) every time you eat to keep your hunger under control.
2. Don't dramatically cut calories. If you don't get enough calories, you could lose energy, and you don't need that to happen. Trim calories by taking fewer bites at meals, eating a whole-wheat English muffin instead of a bagel or using only one slice of cheese on a sandwich instead of two.
3. Don't over exercise. You can really burn out if you overdo it at the gym. Instead, pump up your regular work out routine a few months before your big day.
4. Don't avoid carbs. Your body needs them for energy so be sure to include them in sensible portions daily. Select whole grains like oats and whole wheat bread. Additionally, be sure to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.

From Bridal Guide Magazine, written by Susan Schneider

Photo from: madbrewlabs.com

3 things to consider when choosing a wedding venue

Deciding on a wedding venue yourself can be a little difficult. But here are three things you should consider before choosing the one:

1. How many guests do you want, and how mobile are they?

Do you want a small or huge wedding? The answer might determine your location; yes, the day is about you, but it's about your guests, too. For instance, if you have several older relatives, can they make it to your beach wedding safely? Keep in mind that you can't please everyone, but you should think about making one or two compromises if it means the ones you love will be there.

2. Do you desire to have a religious ceremony?

In 2007, 53 percent of couples wed in a church. Some things to think about include:

• If you're having a traditional religious ceremony, you might have to have it in a place of worship; make sure you ask up front. If you do, reserve the date at your place of worship before booking your reception location. Additionally, some religious institutions disapprove of intricate decorations or flowers and skin-baring dresses. Be sure to get info about these details.
• If you and your groom-to-be have different religious beliefs, think about having the ceremony at a neutral place such as a reception hall. Speak with both of your families early on about your choice.
• If organized religion isn't a factor in your lives but you want to include spiritual aspects, consider having the ceremony in a natural setting like at a beach or park (make sure to ask about any permits).

3. How much work will you or do you want to undertake?

Depending on the settings, you might have to do some heavy lifting. Before committing to this, consider the pros and cons of these locations:

• Unique location:If you're trying to have your big day in a 'picturesque barn,' for instance, you have to think about who's going to clear out the hay, bring in tables, move the cows to the pasture, etc. You also have to think about Mother Nature. If you plan to have an outdoor ceremony or reception, you need a backup plan for inclement weather which make twice as much work.
• Reception hall: The location generally has a 'one-size-fits-all feel,' but the staff is more than likely prepared to handle the dirty work for you- this may include post-party cleanup.

For more tips on finding the perfect venue, check out our source.

Photo from: weddingchaos.co.uk