wedding reception flowers

Which color blue flowers look best for a wedding?

2011-11-18T20:19:00.000-08:00

my best friend don't have yet the date for the wedding, but she has the colors choosen (aqua blue, brown with lilac and green and gold as accents for details) she is hoping for a fall wedding but i am clueless for flowers that will work under those colors, specially blue and i am trying to help her with this detail...

her wedding gown will be on the ivory golden color, and so far will be an outdoor ceremony with an indoors reception...as a note she lives in Puerto Rico, so living in the Caribbean is also important when choosing flowers...

Thank you ya'll for any suggestions...

Which color blue flowers look best for a wedding?
Here are some blue flowers.... Also there are some flowers that are white %26amp; you can get them dyed any color you want by a florist. I hope this helps :)
Reply:We were thinking of the same colours, but it was easy to get very frustrated so we had to give up in the end. However, there are possibilities - the important thing is that you should try to avoid getting flowers for all of those colours - at least one of them should be reserved as ribbons to complement the flowers. There are many colours in there and they are very easy to clash.

With green and gold assumed as accents via ribbons, the best option here is irises - very bright, large, stylish, easy to accessorise and hard to go past. Delphiniums also look great and are perfect for "garnishing". Offset these with some pale orchids and baby's breath to bring out their brightness.

Beyond this, I'm afraid you really need to get the date for the wedding first, then speak to a florist from her region to find out what's actually available at the time - otherwise, you're likely to be building some fairly expensive castles in the air.

However, if she decides to use blue as the ribbon, then your choices open up radically: brown basic sticks look amazing against purple Singapore orchids, yellow roses and evergreen, and put the lot against a white tablecloth with a pale blue runner and it'll really work.
Reply:sky or baby blue.
Reply:blue ones
Reply:I don't know much about tropical flowers but hydrangeas are really pretty in blue.
Reply:sapphire colored flowers are really pretty!!!

How much should I spend on a wedding gift for my cousin?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.007-08:00

She is also one of my best friends, and we have always been close.

We live 6 hours away, and my daughter will be her flower girl. I was asked to be a bridesmaid but declined because of the distance issue (and her potential to be a Bridezilla).

So we'll be buying the flower girl dress and traveling and staying in a hotel for 3 days.

This is her first wedding, but she has been living with her fiance for about 5 years. They don't own a home, but are saving for one. My husband has volunteered to edit their wedding video (but not shoot the footage) as part of their gift from us.

Taking all that into consideration, how much money should we give them as a wedding gift? There are three of us attending the wedding and reception.

Any advice would be appreciated. :) Thanks in advance!

How much should I spend on a wedding gift for my cousin?
All Points Bulletin for anyone wondering what to give anyone for a wedding gift: give what you can afford and are comfortable with. It isn't about a dollar amount of money, as that is different based on geographical location and income level.

You are doing a heck of a lot for your cousin. That in itself is a gift. Do what you feel good about.
Reply:If you want to buy a reasonable price of dress to your cousin, you can find the gift on eBay. The price always so cleap to bid. Just for reference. Thanks! Report It

Reply:Considering your expenses, unless you are independently wealthy . That's quite a bit of change. My opinion. No more than $100.00 hundred.
Reply:Whatever amount you will feel comfortable with and fits in your budget. Do they have a gift registry? Do you know her special likes and dislikes or taste in decorating? Perhaps a nice set of his and her large bath sheets? If she is into antiques, look for something unique at an antique or thrift shop. Are you at all creative with a needle or calligraphy? One of my favorite gifts years ago was a pillow with the verse: "A wedding is an event. A marriage is an achievement." embroidered on it. You could also do this in calligraphy or print it out and have it framed. There is a nice verse called The Art of Marriage that is also lovely in calligraphy and framed.

http://www.poeticexpressions.co.uk/POEMS...

You could add their names and wedding date to personalize it.
Reply:$100 is an acceptable amount, because you are family and you daughter is in the wedding party.

Good luck
Reply:I think like 50 bucks should be enough considering you doing all these things for her, and three people are coming to the wedding. Also take into consideration how you are doing financially. If you can't give her more than 50 bucks than I think it's plenty. Or like 100 dollars. It's up to you and you look at it from all angles and make a good decision. Well good luck at the wedding.
Reply:ok...honestly you're doing alot to help her, with the wedding video editing, etc etc. But if they're saving for a home i think any little would help, about USD200 or £100 would be much appreciated and rememebred. It all depends on how much u can afforcd though!
Reply:Give her the same amount she gave you for your wedding.
Reply:If your really close with your cousin you spend up-wards of $80. Wedding gifts tend to be really pricey and that is why weddings are ussually close family and friends so you should probably spend over $100. But if your cousin has a registry just get whatever they listed and they should be happy. .

Something Unique (Centerpieces) that doesn't consist of flowers or candles!?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.006-08:00

I need some good centerpiece ideas for my wedding reception. I'm willing to go with easy flower centerpieces or floating candles in fishbowls with the pretty rocks at the bottom or whatever, but I would much prefer having unique centerpieces. Personal and unique would be perfect. Candles and flowers are gorgeous but everyone uses them. My wedding is going to be very traditional, but this is something I want to be a little different. Ideas??

Something Unique (Centerpieces) that doesn't consist of flowers or candles!?
I have included several websites with really fun or unique centerpiece ideas for you! Wont take much time to look at these either for some great ideas! Mnay center pieces can also be given to the guests to take home! They usually steal them anyway! HA HA

Do you have a computer? I like to have photos as center pieces. You can easily make copies of your own at a copy store or your own computer. You can get several different sized frames in different colors at dollar stores, thrift stores or yard sales! Your bridesmaids can help you with this! Collect frames and use as is, or paint them with your wedding colors! Fill them with photos of you and hubby either together or while you were growing up! Spread them out on your tables and accent with candles, and long strips of lace or decorative wide ribbon which could be wedding colors also! Your guests can take them home. But there are tons of ideas on the net- check them out! I went to one wedding that had tired cupcake holders with mini wedding cakes on them- enough for each person at each table! These could even be fancy cupcakes to match your cake! Best Wishes! Happy Hunting!
Reply:Here's what I'm doing...

I have the garden bowls

http://www.craftsetc.com/store/item.aspx...

And I am wrapping a decorative black rope around the edges of the bowls and hot gluing it there. (Got it at Walmart .54 a yard)

In the bowls I am putting water gel crystals.

http://www.surroundings.com/order.cgi?ca...

(last one on the page. these you can buy in color or you can dye them with food coloring.)

I'm probably going to mix a bit of glitter in there to make it sparkle.

And I bought tealight and votive candles off of ebay for cheap (was going to use floaters, but these are cheaper) to match my colors (black and dark red)

I'll put the candles into the gel stuff.

And I bought some sheer dark red fabric from Walmart which I am going to cut with pinking shears and use as table runners just to spice up the room a little bit.

I don't think my idea is really original but I'm kinda on a budget so I had to go with something that would be less costly but sophisticated at the same time.

Surroundings.com has a lot of pretty centerpieces, you might check there.

Good luck and I hope I gave you some ideas!
Reply:I am actually doing a feather centerpiece for a few weddings I have next year. It is so much fun and easy to do!! You can definitely put these together yourself. A website for the picture is as follows: http://www.smileyme.com/ostrich_feather_...

Make sure you do a lot of searching and looking for the items you'll need (feathers, vases, bouquet holders) because some places are more than others. Good luck!!
Reply:*Diffusers are neat - they smell good, look pretty and elegant. Also, a ensemble of chocolate all wrapped up and made to look fancy. What about pretty bird houses? Maybe just glass vases with fresh long stem flowers - spend more time on the vases and keep the flowers simple. I went to a wedding and they had the glass bowls with rocks and a beta fish inside. I won it and still have the fish a year later. How about a basket with two wine glasses, a bottle of wine, some wafer crackers, a knife, some grapes. Anyone would love to get that. Good luck whatever you choose.
Reply:Any hobbies? Passions? What about

-little ceramic figures

-Little potted plants

-siamese (betta) fish in a rose bowl

-candy dishes with yummy treats

-disposible cameras

-small dish with little packs of gourmet coffee for each guest the table (instead of favors)

-an arrangement of seashells and in the centre a pic of either you or the groom with some of the guests at that table or just different pics of you and the groom

-for the train enthusiast, a little battery operated train on a circular track with something cool in the centre

-a little scene with animals, cars etc enacting a memorable time for you and the groom

I hope that gives you some ideas
Reply:Do you have a theme or a look you want. The last reception I went to had a beach theme going on and they had sand and shells in large brandy snifter shaped glass bowls. Then they had blue and white jelly beans in little plastic clam shells for favors.
Reply:I love the thought of wreaths for center pieces. You can put candles in the center of them if you choose, but it's not necessary. Especially if you are having an autumn-themed wedding, autumn wreaths look beautiful on tables and what's great about them is, everyone at the table can see each other as sometimes people choose huge centerpieces that block views.
Reply:my best friend is gettin married soon, and as her centerpieces, along with vases of flowers, she has been buying black picture frames, in all different sizes and shapes, and making copies of wedding pictures, and engagement pictures of her %26amp; her fiance, her mom and dad, his mom and dad, his grand parents and so on. it's a really cute and ellegant idea. it also adds a bit of personalization to each table.

i love hte idea of black and white photos, and depending on your colors for the wedding, you can spray paint the frames to match, or gold foil them, something along those lines.

my best friend bought all of her frames while they were on sale, spending no more than $4.00 for each frame. don't be afraid to put more than one pciture on each table, it's fun, and people can go around and look at the different pictures.

another idea, my aunt and uncle had a sea themed wedding, and as their center pieces, they build sand castles out of brown sugar and i belive white glue. they mixed the brown sugar with a little bit of white glue and put them into sand castle molds/ buckets. they just cut the buckets off, and the centerpieces looked gorgeous. added a few votive candles around the center, and placed the castle on a mirrored plate. they were so pretty, and people couldn't really believe that they were made out of brown sugar.

good luck, i hope this helps a little bit! have fun planning the wedding!
Reply:Hi and congratulations! My idea is the same as others have posted. I think it would be really different to have picture frames and then insert wedding pictures of different couples: your parents; groom parents; siblings; aunts/uncles; grandparents, etc. That way it gives people something to look at. You could still put out a few votives or tealights too.

Another idea is favors and centerpieces all in one. Check out: www.wanderfuls.com

Some people do individual cakes on each table. I hear it is a cost savings too. Have the cake be the centerpiece and your done!

Good luck!
Reply:At my wedding we used a medium sized vase filled with customized m%26amp;m's. They said congrats and bob loves kathy. The m%26amp;m's were two colors and matched the vests and dresses of the bridal party. You accent it at the bottom with a star or square mirror and boom... something different.
Reply:I think it would be cute if you put your favorite pictures of you and your new husband as the centerpieces. Put ivy or something down with them so that they don't look plain. Turn them opposite directions so guests on both sides of the table can see them. *you can find really cheap frames-or nice ones*

This way people can walk around and look at the pictures of you two together and you don't have to worry about making a slide show (I know some people are over slideshows-so if you're one of them that fixes that problem). You can always add a candle (or flower) here or there to help dress it up a bit.

*GOOD LUCK!--Hope this helps...at least a little!
Reply:An excellent way for budget brides to do double duty in a lovely way. By piling boxed or wrapped favors in the center, you create a focal point for the tables, without having to spend additional money on flowers.

Fruit

A very chic way to bring color to the table without breaking the budget. Citrus fruits are popular for beach brides or brides who love color and want a fresh, modern feeling, while apples and other harvest fruits can be perfect for a summer or fall wedding. Grapes can be a wonderful, edible centerpiece and are perfect for a winery setting. Don’t forget about your veggies either! Squash, pumpkins, even ears of corn can be lovely for an autumn setting. Use your imagination, and have your guests marveling at your creativity!

Potted Plants

Don’t like the idea of killing innocent flowers just for your wedding? Or maybe you just realized how much cheaper a potted plant is than a cut bloom? Whether you want to grow your own centerpieces or just like the look of living plants, potted plants come in many shapes and varieties. You can have potted mini-roses, forced tulip or amaryllis bulbs, herbs or even wheatgrass and they will all look beautiful. If you have a green thumb, certain potted plants can easily become a DIY project and can cost fractions of what a florist might charge for them. And the best part? After the wedding, you can plant them in your own garden to remind you of your happy day, or you can give them to guests and have the joy and memory of your wedding day living on in the homes of your loved ones.

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Whats the best way to save money for my wedding?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.005-08:00

i found a wedding package in lake arrowhead that i am very interested in, it's pretty much everything you need for the wedding, flower decor, food reception, photographer, dj, the list goes on, the dress and suit are pretty much the only thing thats not included, but i will need like 15,000 for,everything (the wedding package, dresses, honeymoon) i have until september of 2009, any advice? i make about 1200 a month. not counting my fiance's pay. our parents dont make enough money to help.

Whats the best way to save money for my wedding?
get a part time job.

at my part time job there are 3 girls who have full time day jobs but work from like 5-9 every night and make about 500 extra dollars for their wedding every month
Reply:Here are a few, u might not agree with some but I'm just offering some suggestions

Have your wedding on a weeknight or a Sunday. There is less demand for these dates, so vendors will often be willing to give you a better rate

choose flowers that are in season and grown locally

or buy from a flower wholesaler

avoid having wedding around a holiday b/c flowers are more expensive

choose a simple buffet instead of having a sit down dinner

find a reasonable photographer and book well in advance of the wedding

visit bridal shows and preview all the photographers , get cards and then make your decision

use a wedding dj rather than a live band

buy your invitations through a mail order catalog, prices are hard to beat and u have a variety to choose from
Reply:oh my gosh! think this one through... 15,000 on a wedding?? honestly the best way to save would be doing everything your self :( AND you have plenty of time to find great deals! i am getting married in november and am in the same boat with the parents. im going to jamaica to an all-inclusive resort to get married, then having a reception when i return home. im serving o-hordurves, cake, %26amp; open bar for 100 people. my total is 6,000.

go with a restuarant rather than a venue, they barely have a room charge %26amp; you can do catering, linens, and clean up through them,

make your invitations!!! i compared mine to some online and i saved $250 ny making them. (i got my supplies at paperandmore.com )

o-hordurves is a cheaper alternitive to serving a meal

add balloons instead of going with all flowers

make wedding favors candy instead of frames or pens, ect.. im using m%26amp;m's in my wedding colors

i bought my dress at davids bridal when they were having there $99 sale.

by doing your own dirty work- you will save!
Reply:you need to put away $937.50 a month in order to pay for this wedding. Try picking up a second job, maybe bartending? Or even being a shotgirl. You don't need to know drinks to be a shotgirl, plus you make rediculous amounts of cash!
Reply:That's about average, but it's still a lot of money!

Keep shopping around for other package deals, even a trip to Vegas would probably be cheaper. I think my friends paid $8000 at a nice hotel downtown, which included dj, food and flowers.

Forget the photographer. That is a HUGE expense. Just get friends to take photos. I used disposable cameras and had my guests take them. My mom took lots of photos with her camera and they turned out so nice! We edited them ourselves on our pc.

Good luck! Think about this...would you rather save that money for a wedding, or a down payment on a home you will keep forever?
Reply:With the money you are saving have it directly deposited into a savings account. The thing is too come this September the wedding will only be a year away. If this place is popular and you do not have enough money for a deposit for them to hold your date you might end up losing it. So I do agree with the first writer and I would think of getting a second job of some sort so you don't have to be completely broke trying to save. Congrats and good luck!
Reply:You couldn't have asked at a better time. This week's issue of Time Magazine has an article about saving money on a wedding!

The link is below because the entire article is online. Check it out.

A few things they mention are smaller guest lists, smaller wedding parties, and less expensive food at the reception, ways to make less costly favors, and picking a time other than a Saturday evening.
Reply:We're paying for our wedding too. And since neither of us can take a second job b/c of our first this is how we're doing it.

Take your total cost and divide it by how many weeks you have. this will let you know how much a week you need to save.

Cut out any unneccesary services, such as a land line if you both have cell phones. In our case it was premium cable(my fiance wouldn't go without it completely). I unplug anything not in use and cut our electric bill in half! Switch to CF lightbulbs as well. They save you some serious money. Carpool, shop with a list. Only buy gas in the middle of the week(prices go up at 10am on Friday in most areas). We dont go out to eat and bring sack lunches to work. I pick up every penny I find, I pick up as much overtime at work as I can. We don't buy bottled water like we used to. We bought each of us a reusable container and keep washing and refilling it. We only run full dishwasher loads to cut down on water bills and let them air dry or towel dry them instead of the electric wasted on heated drying.

If you really want to do this you have to get tough on yourself. Get very frivoulous and you'll find the money.
Reply:you and your fiance need to sit down and figure out a more tightened budget than the one you are on now.

can you cut back anywhere?

for example:

-both of you take lunches to work instead of eating out (put any money you'd be using for this towards the wedding).

-stop going out to eat,to movies,etc on weekends. start staying home more?

-can either one of you pick up overtime at your job?

-open a special banking account or have a special jar/jug inside your house and label it wedding money. make it a requirement that you put at least 300 dollars into the jug each month (try to do more). also put ANY change you accumulate into the jar.

-have a garage sale to get rid of some of the things in your home you dont need anymore-put all money earned from this towards the wedding.

-go w/out cable or specialized features on your cell phone plan from now until your planned wedding date. use the money saved towards the wedding.

there are a ton of things you can do to help save money. but the first thing you need to do is sit down together and find out exactly how much money you need to cover you bare necessities. anything above those is extra and can be cut out for now

good luck!!
Reply:Put away a certain amount of money into savings from each paycheck. Also cut back on unnecessary daily living expenses. For example, if you can, take your lunch rather than buying it everyday. Don't go out to eat every opportunity you get. Fix coffee at home (you can get flavored creamers and chocolate syrup and whatnot at the grocery) and take it to work with you. Rent movies and books from the library which are free rather than going out all the time. Carpool with a coworker. Little things do add up after awhile so decide what you can cut back on in your everyday life and go from there.

How should I decorate my outdoor reception site to look good in daylight AND at night?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.004-08:00

My wedding ceremony and reception are both at the same location - the outdoor area of a bed %26amp; breakfast. My ceremony starts at 5pm with the reception to follow. I want to decorate the space to look FABULOUS both in the daylight and at night. BUT if I use candles too often, they won't be lit during the day and that will look stupid. What should I line 'the aisle' with? I don't have a huge budget and an excessive amount of flowers is just not an option for me. Help!

How should I decorate my outdoor reception site to look good in daylight AND at night?
I have seen chandeliers or long chains with glass beads hung from trees that look good both times of the day. Tiki torches look nice and at 5, you really could start burning them to keep away bugs too! Let me know your theme and I will give you more ideas!
Reply:okay so here's my suggestion for what to put down the aisle on a budget: at any place from michaels to the 99 cent store, you can find long strands of fake flowers, such as ivy or lavender. Look for the cheapest one. put a little bit of glue on the tip of each leaf/petal and sprinkle a touch of glitter. (I prefer white, but you can use silver, as well)

Now... for the day/night thing... look at your color scheme and for the day, use the pastel version of your colors... for the night, use the bright version of your colors. As for the decor (such as candles, etc.) for the daytime, use flowers (fresh or fake, depending on your budget) in light or bright colors and for the night, use candles.

I hope this helps :] I would love to help if you have any other questions.
Reply:Fill clear vases with ( food coloring) tinted water so it is visible in the day and use LED lights so as it gets darker you have your fake candle light, plus they last like 12 hours so have them turn on and dropped in the water or just use lead lights in bowls with those clear bead rocks from the dollar store. turn on the lights before the ceremony as it gets darker they will be more noticeable. The water can be any color as long as it matches your color scheme. A friend had the same problem i took tall vases and put rocks at the bottom dropped an LED light and filled the vase with water added a few drops of blue food dye.
Reply:see if you can run some twinkle lights in some of the bushes or other natural areas....they can be turned on as it becomes dark!
Reply:white table cloths,waterbowl on each table with rose petals in it and a floating candle for nighttime.white sm. light strings with flowers wraped around the cords for daytime and the lights for nighttime.For the isle use veil material to make large bows and put a flower in the middle.
Reply:oh you don't need to mess with a bunch of flowers. use something that will catch the light, like crystals, glass and such. line the aisle with tulle wrapped around mini lights. they can be turned on at night and look great. candles might not hold up unless they are in a hurricane style vase. lots of sparkly things and mini lights would be wonderful.

How much do you think an average wedding should cost?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.003-08:00

Just the reception, flowers, food, bar, favors, decorations, etc.

I'm not including the dresses, tuxes, or ceremony site. Just the stuff that is traditionally paid for by the parents.

How much do you think an average wedding should cost?
How many people?

It should probably be no more than a couple of thousand. Anything more is just showing off unless you have hundreds of guests.
Reply:You have neglected a few necessary items, such as the Photographer, the videographer, the band, the wait staff, ushers and valets. These are normally paid for by the Bridal parents. The wedding site is traditionally covered by her parents as well, so is, at least, the one dress - the Bridal Gown. It is not out of the ordinary for the parents to purchase or to help with the purchase of the bride's maids gowns...I understand in some smaller weddings, the bride's maids actually cover this cost themselves, though. Tuxedos, being primarily a rental item, not unlike many of the decorations, are not generally covered in the cost of the wedding, and are born out by the groomsmen.

Assuming that you are both of the average family (wont need security to prevent the Paparazzi ) I wouldn't go over $100,000 - 125 tops.
Reply:about $5,000 am guessing!!!
Reply:A good

15, 000 $

...depending on how Fancy ..would vary the Price...
Reply:About $20K... But you can probably skimp on a few things and get away with $15K.

Any tips for wedding planning from far away?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.002-08:00

My fiance and I live in Alaska and we are getting married next fall in North Dakota. We don't have a lot of money to make frequent trips back to plan things so we will be doing most of the planning through phone, mail, email, etc. We want to have a nice wedding without having to spend a ton. Any suggestions on not getting ripped off since we may have to book certain things like reception hall/ dj / flowers etc without the benefit of sitting down face to face with the respective business owners????

Also, any tips on centerpieces/decorations??? We don't want a bunch of stuff that we will have to find storage for or have to try to bring back on the plane with us.

Any tips for wedding planning from far away?
#1 the internet

#2- call! never book anything without SPEAKING to someone first. a great website doesn't mean great product.

#3 Ask for actual references. then actually call these former clients for their opinion and thoughts.

#4 centerpieces can be done through the florist. you can also do rentals through most florist which means you can rent centerpieces as well. no storage. no fuss. (we rented candle lanterns surrounded by flowers in our wedding colors).

#5 hopefully you have someone in the area in case of emergency. a good friend you can call to go look at something or meet w/ someone on your behalf. also- this will help to be able to ship things to his/her address instead. you don't want to cart boxes of favors w/ you on the plane.

#6 get there early. save up now and get to the location about 2 weeks ahead of time. this can prevent disasters. you can clean up any last minute messes and do all the other things like tie ribbon around favors and perfect your seating chart out there.

Good Luck!!!
Reply:I have to ask, what is in North Dakota? Because if it's your family or his family, then you should try to enlist their help. You can do almost all the research online, finding vendors and talking price and everything. But if you trust the judgement of someone who lives there, it will be invaluable to have them able to go look at more pictures or whatnot.

It helps to study up on certain terms. The easiest example is before you book a photographer, be sure you know what photojournalist style is versus traditional versus candids. That kind of thing will help both you and the vendor be clear on the phone.

Also, if you do get to make trips back, I would schedule a ton in one day. I was only about an hour away from my wedding site but I didn't like making the trip - so we'd have really long days when we were there, but it was totally worth it.

As for centerpieces and decorations, you could always do flowers, which generally the florist keeps the containers and disposes of the flowers themselves. You could also do your own centerpieces and give them as gifts to certain people afterwards. One of my friends once had really nice candle centerpieces that she gave to the bridesmaids as gifts after the wedding.

Good luck!
Reply:Here are a few wedding planning websites that you may want to check out:

http://www.weddingsoft.com/download.asp

http://www.theknot.com/pl_main.html

http://www.weddingplanningwiz.com/0chapt...

Also, I am a Personal Bridal Buyer and an authorized rep for various companies. This means that I am able to offer discounts off of the suggested retail prices for numerous items such as invitations, gowns, accessories, gifts, etc. Feel free to visit my site for more information on my available services.

Good luck!
Reply:Hire a wedding planner. They usually save you more money that their fee is just by getting you what you want and not the run around. You can contact a destination wedding professional. There are only a handful that will travel but it will save you tons in the long run.

Good luck and blessings on your marriage.
Reply:The best thing to do is try to research EVERYTHING on the internet. If the business owners don't have a web site then ask them to mail or e-mail you pictures of the location and a price sheet. If you feel like someone is trying to rip you off then get a friend to call and act like they actually live where you are having your wedding.... If you find flaws, report them to the Better Business Bureau. I live in Alabama and I am getting married in Tennessee. I did everything online and I also hired a wedding coordinator. GOOD LUCK!
Reply:Las Vegas- Little White Wedding Chapel - Save the money for your honeymoon and house. Think about it.
Reply:Hey!!

I live in Washington and I got married last year in Southern California. I went through the exact same thing so here are some tips on how to do it online: EVERYTHING CAN BE DONE ONLINE!

I never once flew back to CA to prepare for the wedding until my a few days before my actual wedding day!

When you are contacting a wedding vendor, let them know that you live in a different state and thus will not be able to meet them. Most vendors will be undertanding and they will be willing to conduct business by e-mails and phone calls. So as not to get ripped off ask them to send you pictures of their services (besides what they have online on their website). For example...the manager at my reception site (a kayaking club) took some digital photos of the room where I was holding the reception. I wanted to see what the room looked like in the "raw" and without special lighting nad decorations. Also...involve some family members or friends who live back home to help you out. Even though I chose my wedding cake bakery online, I wanted to make sure her cakes tasted good so I asked my father-in-law to go try out her cakes. He was only to happy to eat cakes and he helped me narrow down the choices (my cake ended up being delicious!!!). Also....stay away from websites such as the Knot and wedding channel. They are great to give you ideas and help you give visuals of things you don't and don't want...but they are a rip off!!!! You can find much cheaper wedding products such as favors in other less known websites. For example...I purchased my wedding favors at:

www.99centfavors.com.

Many vendors will send you cut outs of fabric materials that they use for table cloth rentals...or rose petals to show you the color of the flowers that they will make your arrangements.

I am not sure what the theme or color scheme of your wedding will be, but I had a very affordable and DISPOSABLE idea for centerpieces which worked out great! My color scheme was ivory and gold. I had gold table cloths on my reception tables, so I used rose petals (ivory) and candles to illuminate and decorate them. I bought bags of rose petals online that were delivered two days before my wedding day (you can keep them in the refrigerator for a few days and htey will look great) and I purchased votive candles online as well. The candles and roses costs me less than $10.00 to set up per table and they looked amazing!!! When the reception was done, we just threw them out!

If you have any questions...feel free to e-mail me! I had such fun planning my ewdding...now I want to plan everybody else's too!
Reply:hire a wedding planner in ND...have the planner email pictures to you of choices for venue, decorations, food,etc.

the pictures you see online at websites may be just like those pictures on tv of food from McDonald's...looks good when they want it to look good

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Flowers for a beach wedding?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.001-08:00

I am getting married on the beach in california in may...my wedding colors are cobalt and aqua blue...what flowers would look good. the wedding is semi casual. oh the only flowers Im having are for the bridal aprty...not the chuppah or the reception

Flowers for a beach wedding?
What if you did something like these bouquets? Gives it a little bit more color, but it is still subtle. Hope this helps! :)

http://www.flowersbyanne.com/cgi-bin/lis...

http://www.flowersbyanne.com/cgi-bin/lis...

http://www.weddingsbyamy.com/blog/images...

http://images.theknot.com/ImageStage/Obj...

Adding just a slight hint of peach and yellow make it look very nice...good luck
Reply:What about Hawaiian lays
Reply:Tiger lillies!

Exotic,but simple and they come in white which goes with everything! I think against a beach they'd look stunning. I wish we had beaches here in Utah!

Sounds wonderful have fun.
Reply:have a wide array of bright, colorful tropical blooms.....it will look amazing!
Reply:hydrangea and irises
Reply:calla lillies or orchids... the florist can die them to match your colors as well
Reply:White lillies are pretty and would look nice with blue ribbons.
Reply:I am having mine on the beach in cali too in June. My colors are turquoise and cobalt too, all the colors of the sea glass. I went with orange stargazers with a couple of fushia stargazers in there....it looks amazing..very tropical. and my girls have just the orange stargazers in a smaller version.Their dress are deep turquoise and the orange flowers really pop...good luck.

Need help decorating for our wedding reception!?

2011-11-18T20:18:00.000-08:00

Our colors are black and fuschia and will be getting married in June this year! We are both stuck on how to decorate. We have already bought ivy bowls, votive candles and holders and glass stones to put on the tables. We are stuck with centerpieces. He wants balloons since the hall has huge ceilings. I want flowers, but can handle balloons if we find the right picture. What do you think?

In this link below, we are doing something similar to this but more elegant then what it is shown. Do you think we need balloons on the tables if we already have this?

http://www.rentandevent.com/images/Heliu...

Need help decorating for our wedding reception!?
Honestly I am not a fan of balloons at weddings.

I would rather see a room filled to the brim with candles and 1 exotic flower on each table.

The worst thing you can do is over decorate a wedding venue...in my opinion.
Reply:I would find tall glass square vases, and fill them with fuschia or pink glass stones (look like pebbles) that can be found at a craft store. And do a black table cloth, i think fuschia table cloths might be a little bright in the room.

Maybe find some little votive holders to go around the vase.
Reply:Balloons on the table would be overkill. You should opt for something simple with a fuschia punch of color for your tables...like a glass bowl with fuschia orchids heads floating in water (any flower that color) added to the candles and glass stones would be gorgeous. Congrats!
Reply:use glass bowls or vases with some of the stones in the bottom and water and put floating candles in, dont use balloons in as it will look cheap
Reply:Don't worry about the balloons just get rid of the posters on the walls!
Reply:No balloons

What do you think of this wedding reception table centerpiece idea?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.008-08:00

Ok, unique blown glass vases in pretty greens and transparent colors. They would have red dirt from Alabama (my home state) layered with sands from Nevada (his home state) filled to the top, then there would be some curly willow stuck in with jewelry wire twisted around all the branches with pretty beads in the colors of the wedding stringed onto the wire. There would also be sagebrush stuck in the dirt/sand inside the vase. The vase itself would be sitting inside a shallow, wide bowl (but not too big for the table) with a few floating candles, flower petals, and silver glitter tossed in. Around that there would be magnolia leaves pinned under the shallow bowl to sort of frame it out.

What do you think??? Could I do it myself with my bridesmaid's help?

What do you think of this wedding reception table centerpiece idea?
I like the idea. The only thing I would add is a little card on the table describing the symbolism with the dirt and sand!
Reply:i think you should make a trial one and see if you can actually do it and what it looks like in real life....then go from there....or if you want you could hire someone to do a trial for you and see what it looks like and have them make it for you....all the details sounds really nice...centerpieces in ball room setting set the whole scene and if they are put together and very extarvagant and elegant it will be a showstopper (besides you)..lol
Reply:Either that, or you could weave a candleholder from toilet paper and broom straws.

Seriosly, it sound perfectly nice but trust me - nobody is going to notice the centerpieces or their symbolism. You'll save time %26amp; effort if you get some appropriately-sized table ornaments at Kmart, and nobody will notice the difference. People are at the receptiion to enjoy the company, not to evaluate the decor.
Reply:I think it's a cute idea. I think you should be able to do it with help from your bridesmaids. I like the fact that you have dirt from your homestate and his, it makes it feel like you two are joining together. very cute idea
Reply:That sounds brilliant! And yes, as long as you know what you are doing and try it in advance, you and your bridesmais should be able to do it.
Reply:Love the idea. I think its very creative to have sand/dirt form your home states. I never would have thought of something like that. Very creative
Reply:I think you should make a prototype first, it sounds like there is a LOT going on in that centerpiece.
Reply:I was sold with just the glass-blown vases and the sand/willow branches.

It sounds like something you and your bridesmaids could make, provided you don't have to make *too* many of them. I would be sure to make a mock-up well in advance of the wedding so that you can be sure of what it's going to look like. I guess the vases are pretty small if you're setting them in the middle of bowls with candles and stuff? It sounds like it might be getting a little overdone once it gets to that point if the vases are not very small, so the mock-up would help you decide for sure whether or not you want to go that extra mile. I personally think that a large-enough vase with the sand, willow and sagebrush would be enough. =)

You sound like you're much more creative than the common bride!!

Do you buy flowers for a church wedding?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.007-08:00

MY CUSINE IS GETTING MARRIED TODAY AT CATHOLIC CHURCH SHOULD I BUY FOLWERS FOR THE BRIDE OR IS THE GIFT/MONEY THE ONLY THING TO BRING. THE WEDDING IS FOR MORE THEN 300 PEOPLE. I WILL NOT BE ATTENDING THE RECEPTION FOR PERSONAL REASON. PLEASE HELP!!!

Do you buy flowers for a church wedding?
No flowers...the bride will have her own, etc.

As far as your gift, my brother always says, "Cash is King"!

Have fun!
Reply:I would go for money or giftcard. There will probably be a lot of flowers for the wedding already and you can't go wrong with cash!!
Reply:If you don't go to the reception then you don't have to give a gift = maybe a card with a gift certificate inside for wherever they're registered
Reply:this night is only one in life please pay all its expenses .more over you have to pay church too ..

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Wedding Centerpieces...?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.006-08:00

I'm looking for examples of centerpiece without flowers for my wedding reception. The colors are red and white, and we're trying to stick with mostly hearts for a theme. I'm getting married in August! Any ideas? Where can I find some ideas?

Wedding Centerpieces...?
-Floating heart candles in a bowl of water would be good. You could do red hearts with white pepples on the bottom of the bowl or vice versa

-For my wedding I had some candle holders that looked like little wine glasses (got them at walmart for 97 cents each) with a votive candle in it. Around the base I wrapped some fake ivy (also from walmart) and I sprinkled rose petals around the table. Instead of petals you could do confetti in red and white hearts. I had two colors of candle in the holder, alternating each table.

- I have also seen tall candle holders ( tall skinny ones with the cup at the top) with either votive or tealight candles in your colors with mirror as a base. Sit a few holders on the mirror, then use ivy or confetti on the mirror or leave it plain.

- Some companies that do wedding supplies make these suckers on really long sticks that look like different shapes (hearts, roses, stars). You could put a bundle of those in a vase on the table and let guests have them after the wedding. They could be your favors, you could put a little tag on them saying tank you or something. You can get them in a lot of colors.

-A few large pillar candles in red and white on a mirror (or something like that) would look good. They could be different heights and you could spread confetti around it on the table.

- My cousin had fish in bowls as her center pieces. You could find some red or white fish that didn't need an oxygenated tank and put them in a cheap bowl (doesn't have to be a normal fish bowl) with red and white pebbles in the bottom or heart shaped rocks in red and white on the bottom. The fish wouldn't have to be red or white. Betas would also work, or goldfish, both are relatively cheap. Confetti around the fishbowls is always good. After the wedding your wedding party could take the fish home or you could let whoever wanted one take them home.

That is all I can think of for now. If I think of something else I will add it on. Hope these help or aat least give you ideas.

I put my entire wedding together myself, so I know what you are going through.

By the way, I will be celebrating 1 Year tomorrow!!!!
Reply:We did ours in red and white. We had open red/white roses, and floating candles in glasses that we bought at garage sales, etc. The glasses were all unmatched. We put a red ribbon across the table and a white thinner ribbon on top of it. We sprinkled red and white silk rose petals down the ribbon. We also used glass flat red/white and clear marbles. At the end of the evening we encouraged all the guests to take the glassware home. They took ALL of them.

The entire floral bill for the wedding was under $700.
Reply:Maybe do a small dish with those glass beady things in it with a beautiful candle
Reply:Why don't you try finding some cute little dishes and put some red and white heart shaped candies in them? Not only will they be cute and inexpensive, your guests will love nibbling on them! Another thing that I love to see is floating candles in some sort of candel holder. Those really create a nice ambiance, too. Hope this helps!
Reply:I think candles always look classy. Maybe floating heart candles in a glass heart shaped bowl? Or even heart shaped pillar candles. I've seen them on a lot of websites.
Reply:I like the idea of candelabras!

I also like the idea of a picture of the wedding couple on every table surrounded by Hershey's kisses and hugs candies

These links have some great choices

http://www.usabride.com/centerpieces/ind...

http://weddingshop.theknot.com/weddingwa...

http://www.partypop.com/Categories/Cente...

and look at these feather centerpieces! I've never seen anything like them before

http://www.partypop.com/Vendors/4114208....

http://www.orientaltrading.com/applicati...

http://wedding-planning.suite101.com/art...

Congratulations!
Reply:ttp://www.tiradophotography.com/wordpres...

http://www.foxchasegolf.com/foodservice/...

candle with lace on the holder.

http://www.weddingflowersandmore.com/ima...

http://sheashells.home.att.net/amethyst-...

i hope these help.
Reply:Lady,I will suggest to put the center piece beside the entrance door with a gift table beside on it is Ice Carving=Two love birds on top of the heart= the heart have writen your name and your husband to be. then behind the icecarving is red ligth on to sparkel to your clean and shinning icecarving,it will take 5 hours to melt the whole shape of ice carving. congratulation and good luck to you
Reply:How about heart candles floating in a dish w/ water?
Reply:There are new companies popping up all over the country called Edible Arrangements, they make these beautiful flower arrangements out of carved fruit, so your guests can nibble on them during the reception party. They're a hit. check them out. They have chocolate dipped berries and melon ball centers.
Reply:I've seen a lot of taking vases and filling them with fruit or using fake presents / picture collages...

A church wedding then a reception at a lake or a lake wedding???

2011-11-18T20:17:00.005-08:00

i thought that it would be romantic getting married by the lake on a sunset then lighting up at least 200 tealights which lasts for 15 hours,, half of the tealights in circular glass balls are hanging on a big tree then my wedding colours would be cream, chocolate brown and peachy pink... while my flowers are cream roses brown calla lilies and peach pink roses...

A church wedding then a reception at a lake or a lake wedding???
that sounds really nice. If a church wedding isn't important to you or your faith then go for having the entire thing at the lake. It can be annoying for guests to travel from the ceremony to the reception when they're in different places, plus if its at a lake after being at a church it may be harder to find if people don't already know where it is.
Reply:I got married in the mountians. The outdoor chaple was in the woods with the lake in the background. I don't have a single regret, it was exactly what we wanted. You'll probably have to find yourself a nondenominational minster to perform the ceremony though, because most religions are stuck on that stupid belief that God is only in a church. Its total BS. God is everywhere, after all, didn't he create nature? I say go for the lake. Your ideas sound amazing and romantic!!!
Reply:lake
Reply:One benefit of having the ceremony in a church is seating. For an outdoor ceremony you have to rent additional chairs and aisle runner. Stuff the church already has.

Also, sunset weddings are beautiful, but can be torture on your photography. If the light isn't just right they can turn out quite dark. This happened to a friend of mine.

Is this a private lakefront property? Or are you renting the site? Make sure you look into the owner's opinions on lighting all that flammable material on their property.

It sounds beautiful, whichever way you decide to go.
Reply:Depending on your religion, some churches will not marry you outdoors. So, if having a religious ceremony is important to you, please consult with your pastor before making plans. The lake sounds wonderfully romantic. Good luck with whatever you choose.

Wedding reception questions...?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.004-08:00

what flower matches white gerbera daisies the most if my settings are mostly going to be chocolate brown???

i changed my plans,, i'm not going to have a beach wedding anymore,, well instead, in a church... i want a simple but very elegant gown,,, what kind of neck lne do you think is the best? what silhouette?? what kind of material??? are beads ok???

Wedding reception questions...?
Turquoise or Pink flowers will look stunning with chocolate brown and white. Check out the website below. It will help you coordinate colors!
Reply:pink pink pink!
Reply:You sound very confused. ....White gerber daises would also look nice with orange and yellow.

Most wedding dresses at the moment are sleeveless so if you need to cover up you will need a little bolero...the style obviously has to suit your figure and you havent said what that is...no bust waist or hip sizes but if you are on the bg side the simpler the style the better. Silk is obviously beautiful but very expensive in England so a thickish white material with white and crystal beading would look fabulous.

Unless we see a photo of you its terribly difficult to tell you what will suit you but anyway...whatever you wear I am sure you will look really radiant so have the best day of your life....and dont get nervous!!!!
Reply:First the flowers- I think any pink or blue flower will go well with brown and white. Plus it will give a wow factor. I put a link below for a blue flower that will make your flowers stand out.

The dress- a strapless fitted gown would look elegant but is kept simple. One in mind is from Davids Bridal. link is also below.

Good luck!
Reply:I think that a satin gown with a cathedral train would be best. The neckline is dependent on how conservative the church is. I wouldn't go with a low cut or strapless. Maybe some cap sleeves. An A line gown is most flattering on all types.

Good luck and Congrats!!
Reply:That sounds so lovely. I am a big fan of elegant weddings. Here are some dresses to look at, they are all elegant I think. My dress is one of these. It's J924s. They will give you some ideas at least.

http://www.bridesofmanuka.com.au/gallery...

Good luck!

How much did the flowers for your wedding cost?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.003-08:00

i was looking online, and some that i saw were over 100 dollars!!! to me that seems a bit ridiculous for one bouquet... i won't even mention how much the center pieces and reception decorations were!! i just want an average prices people paid for theirs.. thanks !=^-^=

How much did the flowers for your wedding cost?
When I first got my quote it was for $1,000, which is wayyy more than I wanted to spend. My florist was great, and helped with the following ideas:

If you don't need to keep your bouquet, us it as your toss bouquet, too.

If you do get a toss bouquet, use it as decoration on the guest book table or cake table until you need it.

Don't have an arrangement made for the head table... have your bouquet and your bridesmaids bouquets placed at the front of the table... you can even by small vases for them to be placed in.
Reply:Im not married yet
Reply:I had very simple centerpieces - tall round vases approx 4" across, with 6 tulips wound around inside and a couple sticking out the top along with those stick things florists use (they were very elegant)... and a dozen tulips for the maid-of-honor (I only had the one attendant) and my bouquet, roses, tulips, lizianthis, and some greenery and the head table flowers were a mix of other flowers and greenery with a few roses, tulips and lizianthis. My flowers cost $250 just for the flowers and vases. I was lucky, one of my best friends made all my flowers arrangements for me as our wedding present and didn't charge me labor.
Reply:Where I am having my reception at does the centerpieces so I only had to get flowers for the acutal ceremony. I got a tip from my photgrapher about a local grocery store. They do great work and are very affordable. My flowers only came to about 800
Reply:If you must have real vs, silk; check with your large-chain grocery stores. Sounds frightful but you can save a bundle on flowers %26amp; cakes.
Reply:Flowers are expensive...even more when you have a big wedding. Roses are usually the cheapest (except during Vday). The bride's bouquet usually costs about $100-$300 depending on the flowers in it. For my wedding I plan on having 16 in bridal party (including the children) also my reception will have about 50 tables with the centerpieces being a square vase filled with about 10 roses. The quote my florist gave my was $2000
Reply:my sister ended up getting fake flowers at a local craft store and had them dyed to match her wedding colors and scented them for wedding. this ended up the best thing for her because then she was able to make 2 different bouquets... one that she could throw and then one to keep for a keepsake. they turned out beautiful and i was very impressed and so were all of her guests. good luck and congrats
Reply:I had a very cheap flower (daisy) and I also had a friend doing my flowers. He gave us a HUGE discount but all of my flowers (wedding, reception, rehearsal dinner, bouquets, decorating my cake, etc) was $1000 and he said it normally would have cost about $2500. Flowers are normally a big portion of your budget.
Reply:mine were probably around 2000-2500...not really sure but they were sure worth it...they were beautiful. Spend what you like...just make sure they are beautiful and nothing else will matter. Flowers make your ceremony. Mine sound expensive but it was for everybody in wedding party...church decorations and reception.

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Ok.. now that we have decided to do the very small wedding and cake and punch reception, what now??

2011-11-18T20:17:00.002-08:00

Is it still ok to have 3 bridesmaids and grooms men if we are doing a outside semi-informal wedding? I would still like to wear a pretty dress maybe not a huge ballroom gown, but if I an find $100 or less destination type dress, is it ok for me to wear it? I have only been to big weddings and receptions where things are the norm. so I don't know what is ok to still do, since we are going the cheap simple route? I would still like to have the flower girl and ring bearer (these are our kids) just everything not as formal as the usual wedding.

What are all of your thoughts about this? It's really hard to find pictures of small 15-50 ppl weddings, so any help you can give I appreciate!

Ok.. now that we have decided to do the very small wedding and cake and punch reception, what now??
I had a small, destination wedding. There was 30 people in attendance (not including the wedding party). We had a traditional wedding party.

I think people are moving away from the huge church wedding, and doing things that suit the bride and groom, more. This is, after all, your wedding day, and the ceremony (location and all) should represent YOU and your husband-to-be.

Make it your own. If you want to wear a huge ball gown, wear one, if you'd rather wear something simple, do that too. It's all about you!

With everybody doing the things they that want, we're moving away from the traditional.

my husband and I did what fit us. We had a destination wedding (at the beach), we made it our own. And everybody who attended said how beautiful it was (and people are still talking about how we had the "happiest wedding they had ever attended").
Reply:Yes, it is OK to have as many brides maids, and grooms men as you like. This is your Wedding, and as long as you and your mate are happy, that is really all that matters. I personally prefer a small modest wedding with friends and family, that way we have more money for the important things.....Honeymoon!
Reply:That sounds about like mine. I have 75 total on the invited list but expect about 40. This includes my fiance and I and our 6 combined children. And the photographer. The wedding is outside in the afternoon. All the kids are in the party at age appropriate stations. I have a MOH, another bridesmaid, and my fiance has a BM. He's wearing his dress blues (army), I'm wearing a silver Vera Wang. I'm having a fancy cake, we're doing all the dancing and centerpieces and the rest of the goofiness that is expected at the reception. So what if there aren't that many people. It's the only wedding you're going to have (knock on wood). Do everything you want and nothing you don't. It's your wedding and there is nothing that is not okay.
Reply:If you would like to have 3 maids %26amp; 3 men. Do it. It will be fine. My friend found a very pretty white dress during prom season. It was only like $89.00. If it's feasible look around that time. Definitely have your children be in the wedding. Calm down, you seem like your over thinking everything. Everything will be fine.
Reply:I've been to two such events. In one, they had four bridesmaids and four groomsmen, a flower girl, a ring bearer, rose petals, a band, a bar, and someone to carry the bride's train.

In another, they had no ring bearer, no flower girl, no bridesmaids, no groomsmen, and one man on a bagpipe for music.

I liked the first one better. Without the flower girl, and at least one maid/groomsman, there is no real indication of when the bride will be going down the aisle.

Whatever you do though, it's YOUR wedding, so do what YOU want. The groom will be plenty glad enough so long as there's a honeymoon. The family will be satisfied as long as there really is a certificate, and they get to see. Don't let them ruin your big day with their ideas. So long as there's money for it, you have the final say.
Reply:No, perhaps only 1 attendant each - %26amp; maybe just the kids - I think the informal dress is the perfect way to go. A suit for him, rather than tuxes - think more casual! You can do it %26amp; still make it special %26amp; memorable. I had 50 people %26amp; only had one attendant - downsize that wedding party!
Reply:Yes ma'am - all of the above is more than okay. I think the children as flower girl %26amp; ring bearer is great, you can have as many attendants as you wish %26amp; the choice of gown would be lovely. Since you are going with small %26amp; less formal, you don't have to have the guys in tuxes %26amp; the girls dont' have to be in evening gowns. Put the guys in dark slacks %26amp; white polo shirts or dress shirts. Let the girls choose the style of dress that suits their figures best, but have them all in the same color. You can have a simple bouquet instead of a huge thing; that way it won't detract from the beauty of your dress. I have to be completely honest with you - if you don't listen to anything else, please listen to this - DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY. Men get married - women have weddings. Does that make sense to you? The nice touches, flowers, music, dresses - all of that makes the ceremony %26amp; it's what you will look back on %26amp; remember. Also, get a professional photographer to do your pictures %26amp; make sure you get every single pose you want. You only get one shot at this so make it what you want %26amp; make it good. Just because it's 15-50 ppl doesn't mean it has to be "cheap" or poorly done. You can have as elegant a wedding as someone with 500 guests - more so because the initmacy of your situation will make the ceremony so much more beautiful. What you said "just everything not as formal" is exactly right - ya'll can kick back %26amp; relax %26amp; enjoy your day. If you want something, go for it. Good luck, best wishes %26amp; I hope you have the happiest wedding day ever!!!!!

EDIT: Not sure why folks are directing you to mother of the bride type dresses; you can find any number of lovely dresses that are for the bride, not her mother. Also, check places like craigslist.org %26amp; e-bay for dresses - they usually have tons for sale %26amp; prices are great......
Reply:Think about it this way.

If you are having 15 in attendance, 6 of those being your wedding party... that would leave only 9 in attendance.

Get yoru kids involved, that's cute and appropiate.

If I was you, I would just have a maid of honor and a best man. No need for more.

Good luck
Reply:I think you can still wear the dress you want and have BM.
Reply:It is your wedding, you can do whatever you want. It is nice to not have such a commericalized wedding. Put personal touches in it. Whatever you feel pretty in, however many people you want in it. I would have more fun at a casual wedding than @ some fufu affair where you are afraid to hug the bride and don't know what the food your eating is. You can show picture slides of you guys, getting together, having kids, blah, blah,,You can still have a great time. Flowers, candles, get creative. The hard part is already over..You found your soulmate!!!
Reply:you can still have a bridal party: just keep the whole thing simple. if you are going to have a gown on, keep the girls in some tealength dresses and the gentlemen in slacks and a casual dress shirt. you can have a beautiful wedding no matter how many people are there.
Reply:Hi and congratulations on your decision!

Here are my thoughts:

If you have already asked your 3 bridesmaids/groomsmen to participate in your wedding and they have agreed, then certainly don't change it. If you have NOT asked them, I would go with just a maid of honor and a best man since you are having an outdoor semi-informal ceremony. And, YES, have your two children as ringbearer and flower girl!!

~ You most certainly should have a pretty dress. You are already going in the right direction by looking at "destination" type gowns. Also look at the ones labeled "informal gown". Both have many choices.

~ At the bottom of my message is a link to some outdoor weddings photos that I found. They, of course, are not going to be exactly what you are having, but it may give you some ideas. You will want to rent some chairs for your guests. I like the white folding ones that you see in outdoor photos.

~ Another idea would be to get a white arch (sold at Michael's Craft Store or Walmart) and decorate it with tulle, flowers, ivy -- whatever YOU like and then stand under it during the ceremony! Very pretty. (See the last photo on the right - it has the folding white chairs and the arch).

Here is the link to the photos:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en%26amp;q=out...

(Click at the top where it says Image Results for Outdoor Wedding Photos.)
Reply:have the ceremony - the three girls and the ring bearer/flower girl. just get a dress that isn't huge. davids bridal has options for "mother of the bride" dresses that are lovely. I wore this one for my wedding (that was small and somewhat informal) http://www.davidsbridal.com/mother_of_br...

of course mine was ivory... i dressed it up with a veil and jewelry.. look at their other "mother of the bride options like this link.... http://www.davidsbridal.com/mother_of_br...

both of these dresses are pretty inexpensive.
Reply:It's your wedding so it should be anything you want. There were 57 people at my wedding not including the wedding party, and it was semi-formal. I made all the flowers, and boutonnieres. There were 3 bridesmaids, a Jr. bridesmaids, an honorary flower girl, a flower girl, 3 groomsmen and one usher. I found my dress at a bridal shop for $200.00, and it was beautiful!! Would be glad to show you some pics.
Reply:Having bridesmades, groomsmen, flower girl, and ring bearer are still ok. You can let the attendants wear clothes they already have (white shirt %26amp; black slacks, sundresses, etc.) or you can request special attire. You can go shopping with the maids and they can all pick out the same dress to wear on the wedding day, and it can be something that they can wear again as well.
Reply:If you're having a very small guest list, you might want to consider having only one attendant each to make sure you still have an audience. And even though your reception is going to be smaller, you can still have all the elements of a traditional wedding in your ceremony. I would definitely still buy a wedding gown that's within your budget and style. Have your kids be involved. Do whatever things you really want to have in your wedding. After all, this only happens once.

Also, remember that if you're not going to feed your guests dinner, you shouldn't have your reception at a traditional dinnertime. An evening or mid-afternoon wedding might be more appropriate. And make sure your guests aren't expecting a full meal. Put something like "Cake, punch and celebration to follow at XYZ location." That way guests know to eat before they come.

Best wishes!
Reply:If you are having a semi formal wedding, you should scale down a bit. I would have bridal party, but have bridesmaids and MOH in short dresses. Groomsmen should be in casual suits or dress pants with a long sleeve dress shirt with tie with a vest. If you want to involve your children, I see no problem with them being flower girl and ring bearer, but they also should be dressed semi formal. As far as yourself and your groom, I would go with a simple wedding gown, with maybe a fresh floral wreath around your hair, and a small wedding bouquet. For gowns try alfredangelo.com, dessy.com, brides.com and for information, I would go to theknot.com. Very informative houseofbrides.com website is a good site too and topweddingquestions.com too.
Reply:Having three bridesmaids and three groomsmen is a bit too much for your semi-formal wedding. You should really cut it back to a Maid (or Matron) of Honor and a Best Man and the children.

Your dress/gown should be either floor length or tea length or right below the knee (in other words, no train). The color of your dress should be cream not WHITE, and you should not wear a veil in front of your face. The dress should be simple in design with very little ornamentation. Your jewelry should either be pearls or rhinestones (earrings, bracelet, and possibly a neckace depending on the neckline of the dress).

Since you are using the term "semi-formal" then you need to go in this direction. The Groom should wear a suit (not a tuxedo). . and your flowers and decorations should be simple. And your wedding invitations should be simple (very little ornamentation or decorative flowers or pictures).

A punch and wedding cake reception should only be held after lunch (2PM or 3PM) or after dinner (7PM or 730PM), you should not schedule this type of reception when guests are expecting lunch or dinner. You also need to put "Punch and wedding cake reception" on your wedding invitation so your guests will know that lunch or dinner is NOT being served and to eat a meal before then come to the ceremony.

You also need to keep in mind that there are many people in this world who equate what is being served at the wedding reception (lunch or dinner) with the type of wedding gift they will give the Bride and Groom.

You should never use the word CHEAP to describe your wedding, you are degrading its importance.

Answered by: A Certified wedding specialist / A Professional bridal consultant / A Wedding ceremony officiant
Reply:Just because your wedding is small does not mean you can not put some heart into it. You can do anything you want its your wedding,stop wondering what people are going to think and look at what is going make you remember this day.

Sometimes the most simplest wedding are the most prettiest.

Don't be shy in expressing yourself, remember its your day to shine. Best wishes to you.
Reply:Do it your way and enjoy your day.
Reply:Oh yeah. You can totally have a smaller, intimate, less formal wedding! It's your wedding, so you call the shots!

Just look up destination dresses, find one to try on and tell the maids they can get their dresses at a dept store.

If you are having an outdoor wedding, the scenery will already provide much of the decor!
Reply:You can do anything you like, it's your wedding! Just because it's not formal does not mean you can't have 3 bridesmaids. If that's what you want then have 3. It will be lovely. I'm having a formal wedding and I am only having 1 bridesmaid and best man for my bridal party. And of course you can still wear a gorgeous dress. Not all big dresses are beautiful and many simpler, straighter dresses are just gorgeous. Especially slim satin dresses! And as for the flower girl and ring bearer, go for it! If you want it informal, just have simpler attire. The brida; party can look great in a simpler not as fancy dress. Just look at some bridal/wedding magazines for ideas. By the sounds of your ideas, your weding will be lovely, just do it your way to reflect your and your fiance's own style and personality. Good luck!!
Reply:I sent out 45 invitations to my wedding. I think there were around 90-100 people there, including my husband and me and the wedding party. I had 3 maids, he had 2 men. We had a flower girl and a ring bearer. My dad walked me down the aisle, we lit a unity candle, they pronounced us husband and wife. We walked back down the aisle together, snapped a few pictures (my uncle took them, and my dad's a professional photographer) and went back into the room, where we had our buffet-style dinner. Our guests were seated at their tables the entire time and no, we didn't have reserved seating. We had one candle on each table as a centerpiece, in a big glass hurricane-type votive. The 'aisle' curved through the center of the room, between all the tables. Oh did I mention, we got married in a cafe'! Basically, you can do whatever you want! It's your wedding, your day. We planned the wedding in 9 weeks and it was every bit as 'formal' as a formal wedding, just more casual and laid back. It is ok for you to wear whatever type dress you want. I don't know what size woman you are, but there are some beautiful plus-size gowns (simple, affordable ones) at www.lanebryant.com. I would suggest even having one made. Or try Ebay. If it's going to be a semi-informal outdoor wedding, I think it would be cute if your dress and the maids and flower girl's dresses were all tea-length.(to the knee) Just find a dress that you love, that fits you great, then go from there on the girls' dresses. The guys would look great just in khaki's, shirt and long ties. Maybe your groom could be in a linen suit, depending on both of your taste's. You can look at my myspace it's www.myspace.com/minlew I have some pictures posted of my wedding. Good luck and I wish you both the best~!

Does anyone have any $ saving tips on how to throw a cheap wedding reception? I need to find a place fast!?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.001-08:00

I already have and paid for the dress, the cake is being taken care of as well ( mother in law ) I found a church to do it for $150 flat but where I am having a problem is where the heck am I going to have my reception. We are using our economic stimulus. checks to get married. Our budget is $1,200. the church and marriage license fee's have to come out of that money as well. I found flowers @ walmart and we are doing all of our own flowers. My boss is going to work out a deal with me for food because I work for a restaurant that he owns. I need a location is what I need and for cheap. I need some tips on like where to call I live in Bradenton Florida but just like suggestions of places that you might try that you know wouldn't cost much. ANY leads will be helpful I am running out of time. Thank you in advance and if you have any other questions I will make sure and keep up on this to answer you ASAP if I left anything out. THANK YOU SOO MUCH if you help and please help if you can =)

Does anyone have any $ saving tips on how to throw a cheap wedding reception? I need to find a place fast!?
Hey girl, I'm in B'ton too! The rates around here suck don't they? Since you didn't say what day of the week it'll be or how many people, I threw together a bunch of places I thought might be the least expensive, but yet still pretty. I'd try all the bed %26amp; breakfast inns, and lodges/resorts on Annamaria. If all else fails, there is that Moose Lodge on Annamaria on Gulf drive by the Beach House. These all look pretty expensive, and most places only allow specific caterers. Another idea is to look up/google as many caterers as you can in our area, and see where they cater. That will give you an idea as to where you can look for facilities that won't make you order food through them. I hope something in here triggers something for you! Good Luck girl! Keep in touch, Let me know what you end up with! If I think of anything else I'll email you!

Lake Manatee State Park

http://www.floridastateparks.org/lakeman...

Myakka State Park

http://www.floridastateparks.org/myakkar...

Chelsea Center

http://www.chelseacenter.com/

Harrington House http://www.harringtonhouse.com/weddings....

Palma Sola Botanical Park

http://www.palmasolabp.com/facility.asp

Sarasota Garden Club

http://www.sarasotagardenclub.org/rental...

Selby Botanical Gardens

http://www.selby.org/index.php?submenu=R...

Tropical Breeze Resort

http://tropicalbreezeinn.rtrk.com/?scid=...
Reply:Does the church you are marrying at have a fellowship hall or something similar? Many people have their reception at the church where they will be married and it doesn't cost any extra, or if it does, not much.
Reply:if the church has a fellowship hall or gym, you could make that work. the hard part is that most likely the cheaper the place, the more you have to do- which might even end up in renting tables etc.
Reply:http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=wedding... you will have to call to get prices.
Reply:Rent a meeting room at a Knights or Lions hall, they're usually cheaper than the hall itself and sometimes they'll work with you.
Reply:Have you tried the fellowship hall at the church? Or someone's backyard? Maybe a park?
Reply:Instead of having a wedding reception, why not just go to Home Depot and buy a ladder, then maybe stop by Walmart and pick up some cheap luggage.

In case you're thinking "Huh?" Here's how it works:

You and your fiance' split up the luggage between you two. Both of you pack up your things a few days in advance. Then, he sneaks over to your place late at night, leans the ladder against your bedroom window, you toss down your luggage to him, he puts it in the trunk along with his luggage. Then you climb down the ladder and into his arms. Then the two of you then drive off to Las Vegas or Wendover and get married discretely. This method is way cheaper and less stressful!.

I don't really have any ideas for you off hand, I just thought you could use a few laughs.

I see nothing wrong with having a nice, but practical wedding without having to take out a mortgage just to pay for it. You don't have to go all out. You're doing it the smart way. More couples who are about to get married should take a lesson. The money you save by being conservative with the wedding and reception could be better spent on a down payment for a home or something.

Best Wishes
Reply:You said your boss owns a restaurant, what about seeing if you could do it there. Of course, it depends on the size and time of your wedding. It would save you and him transportation costs and the whole setting up.

Like everyone else suggested, check and see if they have a fellowship hall or rec room in the church.

IF you really want to cut costs, you could scrap flowers all together, or use some from friends and families gardens.
Reply:I'd look for a community hall or a VFW or Elk's or LIon's Club or something like that. Check with Park's %26amp; Rec Dept - sometimes they have rooms to rent for fairly cheap too
Reply:Well, check with the church and see if they have a fellowship hall....they are usually small but that will save you money on transportation and decoration really bc you can recycle the decorations you used in the ceremony. and also the room may just be small enough to put a (not being smug or mean) stereo verses a dj and then you'll save there too.
Reply:Wow, I just want to say I will be watching for the answers you get. My fiance and I are spending $1200.00 on our wedding as well and having it in the park. That budget doesn't include alcohol. Even though we can't serve alcohol in the park, I'm still interested in knowing how you fit it into your budget...maybe I could upgrade something else if I found a fabulous way to save!

Good luck!
Reply:I guess the best way to save on costs is to do everything yourself and shop around looking for the best deals.

Compare prices and look for specials and deals.

There are plenty of website that offer free tips and advice such as http://www.my-wedding-reception.com
Reply:Hi Sarah and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Good for you for wanting to have a wedding on a budget! I love trying to help brides with a "budget" wedding. These are my favorite types of questions to answer. As I always say to the others, a "budget" wedding doesn't have to be a "cheap" wedding...there is a difference!!

With that said, I see others have given you the idea of utilizing the fellowship hall at the church. My other suggestion would be to have it at the restaurant where you work. Is there a private room there?

I see your addendum regarding the alcohol. OK.....so here is my "two cents" worth:

~ When helping brides on a budget, my first thought is to have a SMALL wedding. I am talking maybe 50-75 guests (MAX!)

~ Also....I really don't see how you are going to serve food, alcohol, and rent a place for a reception. That is going to be way over your budget.

~ Make SURE that the church fee of $150 is secure. Does that include the minister's fee as well? Double check that. Also....will you be wanting to utilize the organist or pianist for music? How much is that going to be?

~ So....let's say the $150 includes the minister....so that leaves you with $1,050 (minus the marriage license).....just as an example, let's say your marriage license is $50....so that leaves you with $1,000 for everything else.

~ What is the groom wearing? Do you also need to rent a tux? Are you having bridesmaids and groomsmen? If so, you will need to get them a gift. Again, what about the minister's fee? Then.....what about a rehearsal dinner? The rehearsal dinner can be something very easy (possibly at the church in the hall)....like pizza and soda. However, you will still need to figure that amount in to your budget.

~ Again, I love to help brides on a budget, but yours is difficult given what you WANT to have -- food and alcohol.

~ You certainly CAN have a very elegant wedding and then serve "finger foods" along with cake, punch and coffee in the church fellowship hall.

~ To be honest, I think you are going to have to scale back your idea of what you want for your reception. There are many, many alternatives to the "typical" reception of food and alcohol.

~ Some ideas would be to serve "finger foods", cake, punch and coffee (which would need to be at a non-meal time, like 2-5 p.m.).

~ Another alternative would be to have it at a park or in someone's backyard and do a "potluck" or have a BBQ.

~ Another very elegant option would be to have a late night wedding....say 7:30 or

8 p.m. and then have a "dessert reception" (again AT the church) and serve a variety of desserts..of course, cake, and maybe some brownies, cookies, etc. Then you could do a "coffee bar" of different coffees, etc. Serve some fruit and nuts also.

~ OR....possibly you CAN do it at a hotel. However, as someone who has hosted two receptions at a hotel, I know for a fact that you will not be able to bring in your own food. You will have to utilize their catering and also their alcohol and bartenders. This is usually very costly.

~If you still want to do the food and alcohol, check into halls like VFW halls, Lions Clubs, Elks Clubs, etc.

One other idea. You could certainly have an elegant small wedding with close family and friends and then simply go out to dinner at a nice restaurant after. This would be a very nice option too!!

Well....that is all my two-cents worth. Good luck with everything and I hope you have a beautiufl day!

I need wedding reception ideas for a late June wedding (in 2008) with an American color scheme.?

2011-11-18T20:17:00.000-08:00

Off-hand I am thinking of table decorations, favor ideas that revolve around sparklers and flower arrangement ideas off the top of my head.. Plus anything and everything else you guys can think of to make my day special, unique and one of a kind!!!!

I need wedding reception ideas for a late June wedding (in 2008) with an American color scheme.?
you could do a centerpieces of clear glass bowles have blue or red stones at the bottom and a white candle (floating). On the tables you could have different color table clothes One red with blue napkins a blue one with red napkinsandthen have the wedding party table white with red and blue napkins.Here are a cople of ideals for favors a candy or candle . Check the links below

Do check out your local craft store thay might be able to come up with more ideals to.

Good luck.
Reply:Red, white and blue
Reply:Be really delicate in how you include red white and blue. It's a great combo. Pick one of those colors and make that your MAIN color. For instance:

Red as the main color: bridesmaids in red, red roses/flowers for decorations, primarily red invites, chocolate favors in red boxes with a white ribbon with your name written in blue.

Use blue and white for hints of color. For instance, your invites can have a red front. Go with a postcard style invite. Put your writing in blue on the back. A photo of you in black and white on the front. Carry red and white flowers down the aisle and have your bouquet tied with blue ribbon. Same goes for your bridesmaides.

Surround your table centerpiece with silver gilttery stars.

Use or red white table lines. If you use red table linens, get white chair covers and use a blue bow tie for them!

Maybe have blue candles coming out of your central display (floral or other). Or, if you prefer have your sparklers protruding out of your central display.

If you really like spraklers, it'd be neat to have the hotel (or wherever your getting married) put off a hold bunch as you and your new husband go through the doors/entrance to your reception.

Just ideas. Hope they help!
Reply:There are several sites that may help.

charminglychocolate.com they have patriotic favors. Table decorations awesomeevent.com as well as apictureperfectwedding.com

stevensglasschalet.com

Consider doing fireworks. I went to a wedding that featured that and quite cool! Go also to 4th of july wedding on Google even though that is not when your wedding is it still offeres alot of ideas such as above mentioned and floral. Much it fun and different! Best of everything!
Reply:Friends of mine got married 4th of July weekend a few years ago. For the reception they had a B-B-Q theme with checkered table clothes and just simple vases with red, white, and blue carnations with silver spirals. The reception was very tasteful. The wedding itself was very elegent with red white and blue flowers. The brides maids wore red dresses. The ring bearer wore a navy blue tux that had shorts. The flower girls wore blue and white dresses. Instead of baskets they carried metal pails with white and red rose petals.
Reply:It all really depends on your location. (Outdoors? Indoors? A large grassy area or a church reception hall?)

For starters, let's start with the basics: a theme. You could do the glitzy end of July 4th, with lots of sparkle and kitsch. That's fun... if it's not overdone. You have to watch out to walk that line for yourself and your guests.

When you say "American" color scheme, the first thing that pops into my head is Americana, like East Coast/Pennsylvania style. Not "country" but more shabby chic. For this, you'll want to consider a deeper crimson red and a navy blue with antiqued country white for colors. Think simple.

For table decorations, consider putting antiqued white wooden elements together with your greenery. A charming wooden birdhouse can be bought cheap at most arts %26amp; crafts stores (Michael's; Hobby Lobby; Garden Ridge... sometimes even Wal-Mart) and spray-painted to look antique. Tie an accent colored cranberry ribbon around it for a simple and cost-effective accessory. Sometimes these stores also have church-shaped cut-outs pre-formed for painting.

Alternatively, heart-shaped wooden cut-outs could be spray-antiqued and laid among greenery (I'm thinking trails of ivy and other green succulents and simple red roses and/or daisies interwoven) either along serving tables or made into circles for wreaths at tables (assuming you do one of the ever-popular hurricane candle table centerpieces). In lieu of the hurricane, though, you should look around your local craft stores and thrift markets for old (or old-looking!) lanterns. They would lend charm and character to any reception table, plus they add the benefit of securing a candle's flame.

For centerpieces at dining tables you don't want something too tall, or else your guests can't see each other to converse when seated at the table. (the aforementioned lantern idea would be a good height to stay under.) You can have a few tall pieces scattered throughout your event space, though (e.g., on the cake tables and Bride's table). For those taller centerpieces, it's a lovely idea (and one I used in a similar manner at my own English Garden-themed wedding) to take a tall garden bucket (tall enough to hold long-stemmed roses - about 16 to 20 inches height) and fill it with roses. The bucket can retain its natural metal color or be antiqued. For interest, tie ribbons of two varying colors and widths into bows on the handles and let the ribbon ends trail down about 8 inches down the bucket.

I would suggest finding a few Americana-inspired fabrics that you like and using them to layer over your table linens. Making simple squares of fabric to lay under your centerpiece can add depth and convey a theme very effectively, and they're very simple to sew (like sewing a napkin - all you have to do is hem). You can dress the edges up with grosgrain ribbon or beads, and it adds a lot of depth.

Another floral option is to take cranberry, ivory, and navy florals and arrange them in stripes (of varying widths) around a styrofoam ball (12 inches or so in diameter would be most dramatic). Then place the ball on the diagonal in the middle of the table and let coordinating ribbons radiate out from it on the table. You could do multiple sizes and group them on a table for a very chic look.

Finally, you could have your departure through a tunnel of fireworks sparklers.... a friend of mine did that, and it was very elegant and made a wonderful picture. Hand out the sparklers and have everyone do a mock-military sword salute tunnel while holding the sparklers up for you and your husband to run under. Don't worry, unless you have LOTS of guests, the sparklers probably won't hurt your wedding dress.

Best of luck!
Reply:How about red and white striped tableclothes and some blue, star-shaped glitter strewn around? You could name the tables (if there's pre-arranged seating) after national monuments of major historical figures. Serve the sort of food you'd have at a Fourth of July picnic, like potato salad, and grilled chicken.

Whatever you choose, have fun with your theme, but don't go too overboard. A few touches will amuse and delight your guests. A few too many will make them wonder if you're really taking things seriously.

Wedding flowers?!?!?!?!?!?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.007-08:00

Ok I need to find some pictures of tall calla or asian lilly centerpieces for my reception. Where can I find pics like that? I have to have them to show the decorators an idea of what I want. Please help, I have looked everywhere. They have to be pretty tall though.

Thanks

Wedding flowers?!?!?!?!?!?
http://www.acclaimimages.com/search_term...

http://www.acclaimimages.com/search_term...
Reply:http://www.flickr.com/photos/savoirevent...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cagedheat3/...

http://www.bridalhood.com/vendor_list.ph...

Go down to the 4th vendor Elite Design, this is a small picture but the one I like the most. Good luck.
Reply:I saw the coolest flowers by a Japanese designer they were just baby's breath in a huge arrangement total unusual and inexpensive
Reply:google or getty image, search for high resolution/ large pic size if u plan to print those pics :)
Reply:http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

hope these help
Reply:Here's one with a candle: http://www.japaneseweddingfavors.com/ima... (Very minimalist, japanese typ)

Here's another with more flowers: http://www.iflorist.com/en/images/items/...

And here's some with pink lilies and tall white candles:

http://www.yourweddingcompany.com/images...
Reply:http://www.njsdesign.on.ca/images/center...

http://www.blossomsweddingflowers.com/P9...

http://images.snapfish.com/33::396323232...
Reply:http://www.tgisflowers.com/reception_flo... this has one picture with calla lilly pieces with butterflies on the tables.
Reply:I did calla lillies for my wedding and I loved them! All I did was type in Calla Lillies on my search engine and it bought me to all kind of pages with them. Or maybe you can ask your florist if she has a book with pictures of Calla Lillies in them. Good Luck!!

mobile

Rustic/Country Wedding Reception venue in Hamilton/Burlington Ont Area.. Also any other Ideas would be helpful

2011-11-18T20:16:00.006-08:00

I am getting married early-mid october 2009, I have my mind set on borwn and yellow for colours and sunflowers/dasies/brown eyed susans for flowers. I can't seem to find a place with the perfect rustic/country setting or a Barn... I have many ideas, but would like some outsiders input and anything from anyone who has already done this type of themed wedding. I like the masonry jars with stones and sunflowers for centre peices and I may mix with masonry jars with candles... I have not decided on which colour the bridesmaids will wear yellow or brown (this will need to be a deep yellow, if not brown) any ideas will be greatly appreciated. and I am all about DIY...

Rustic/Country Wedding Reception venue in Hamilton/Burlington Ont Area.. Also any other Ideas would be helpful
Here are a few places that you may want to look into. Also, check into your local parks and recreations department.

http://www.conservationhamilton.ca/Asset...

http://www.westfieldheritage.ca/weddings...

You can check out this place as well. I don't know if they would allow you to do a private event there, but if you like it then it's worth looking into...

http://countrygardener.blogspot.com/2006...

Here are a few pictures of weddings that have used the sunflower/yellow and brown theme.

http://www.maisiefantaisie.co.uk/cakepop...

http://content.costco.com/Images/Content...

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1080/8551...

http://images.theknot.com/ImageStage/Obj...

http://bp3.blogger.com/_oZuFDni50Qs/RzIP...

http://bp0.blogger.com/_oZuFDni50Qs/Rt3F...

For the bridesmaid dresses I think they would look beautiful in a nice brown dress, then have them carry yellow sunflowers.
Reply:What about some of the wineries - you might be able to find something there.

Good luck, and Congratulations.
Reply:I'm actually looking to plan a country/rustic wedding as well. I really like the idea of a winery. Another idea that I'm looking into is small towns and rural areas around me. Alot of them have the older building, churches and halls. Good luck!

Beach themed wedding reception/anniversary party?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.005-08:00

My husband and I eloped last June and were married on Cocoa Beach, FL. Our family was very excited for us but wanted to be able to attend a family gathering. So, for one-year anniversary, my dad is throwing us a party at a local banquet hall. I've sent out the invitations and found a cute centerpiece idea that I'd like to make:

http://www.crafts-for-all-seasons.com/se...

However, I hadn't originally planned on having a beach theme. Our colors will be green and white, and I'm not sure how to incorporate this in our centerpieces. It seems to me that the obvious color choice for a beach wedding would be blue, but since the invitations have already been sent out (with green ribbon), I don't know how I should merge the color with the beach theme.

Also, while the banquet hall has an outdoor bar that we will be using, the room itself isn't very "beachy" and has silk flowers around the windows. How can I make everything fit together?

Beach themed wedding reception/anniversary party?
I think green is a beachy colour - why change it? Use palms for greenery around the place. It doesn't have to be a 'traditional' beach theme does it?! I think green would work wonderfully.
Reply:That room is pretty blue, so I think the best way to work with what you have to go use blue and white as your two colors, and add green accents here and there. You mentioned green on the invitation ribbons ... add green ribbon to your centerpieces (which are beautiful, by the way - I LOVE beach themes!). Just tie a ribbon around the top or bottom of the vase you're using in the same green, and it will fit right in.

For our wedding, our main colors are a jewel-toned navy blue and cream, with accents of chocolate brown. I was dead set on having brown somewhere in the wedding because it's one of my favorite colors, and I've found that adding that extra accent color really makes everything tie together nicely, as opposed to two colors, which can almost look TOO planned out.

I would use the centerpiece you just posted and add some votive or tealight candles around it to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. As far as adding other "beachy" decor items, is it in your budget to have palm tree replicas brought in? You can rent almost everything these days, including plants and trees. That would be really cute.

Just make sure that your blue and green tones match ... as in either soft or bold, not one or the other. An example would be sage green with sky blue.
Reply:Hi and congratulations on your marriage!

Although I like the centerpieces that you have chosen....they are cute, I think they will be dwarfed on the tables. By the way....the reception site looks beautiful! Very nice.

My suggestion would be to totally forgo the beach theme even though you were married on a beach. Just go with the elegance of the room. There are a number of things you can do......

(1) Get a large glass bowl like this:

http://www.save-on-crafts.com/candlebowl...

Fill it with some green "vase gems" like these:

http://www.save-on-crafts.com/glassvaseg...

Fill about 2/3 with water.....and then float some candles in it:

http://www.save-on-crafts.com/floatcan.h...

Place it all on a large 12" round mirror tile. This looks so nice and elegant.

(2) I love this look:

http://www.save-on-crafts.com/carcylvas1...

Get various sizes of glass pillars. Put it rose petals, flowers, etc. Then float a candle in them. Get ones that are of various heights - maybe 3 to a table. Again, place them on a mirror tile...and add some rose petals around it. Very nice.

(3) I don't know if you are going for dark green or lighter, but I just love this centerpiece idea using fresh cut limes. You could always replace the pink flowers in the picture with some white ones if you wanted. Or...add in some pink! So cute for a summer reception.

http://www.favorideas.com/com_images/126...

Have fun and congrats!
Reply:The simple answer to add green would be to put green palm fronds underneath the center pieces. That would bring in your green and you already have your white. I would also sprinkle some of the shells on the fronds out side of the jar to tie them together. Also, if you really feel the need to add in the blue, try blue table clothes overlaying the white table clothes. The blue with the white will remind you of waves in the water. I can't tell what color the flowers on the windows are, but you might find a overlay to match. Good luck and hope this helps!

I want to give my parents a party for their 40th wedding anniversary, any suggestions?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.004-08:00

When they got married, they had a very small wedding and no reception. Not sure if I should give them the reception they did not have or something more like a luau. Anniversary is in May. I have asked them and they said that they will leave that up to me. Also need suggestions on what type of flowers to use.

I want to give my parents a party for their 40th wedding anniversary, any suggestions?
Have a videographer (or do a Power Point presentation) of photos from when your parents werebabies...children...teens, and gradually when they were dating...married...held the babies for first time. It's like a look back at the history. A luau is a nice idea for May. Go to Oriental Trading for great prices and supplies of party favors and decorations for any type of theme
Reply:U got face a same problem like my setuation, may be 5 years ago i want that for my parents. and then I invite them to move the longest beach in World "Cox's Bazar Beach of Bay of Bangol" in Bangladesh. and take a 5days holyday. And they seemed very hapy to gave them the happy time on 25th Anneversary.....

thanks

wish u best luck. If u wish u can try to do to go any where in short holyday where ever thay didn't go.

Bony

+8801711455223
Reply:I'd rent out a nice place or set up a party at their house. Nice elegant and simple decorations. I don't think I'd do a theme. If so, I'd do a theme that was focused on them. Something like "Fourty Years of Bliss" with them as the focal point. Dinner with friends and family. I'd use white roses because of what they represent...or a nice summer floral boquet for the time of year.
Reply:hibiscus flowers,poppy, lily, orchids,etc.

you could take them to a nice resturant
Reply:that is real nice of you.i have one suggestion include balloons, gold and white
Reply:The traditional "gift" for 40th wedding anniversary is Rubies. So think RED. If red roses get too expensive, use red carnations or a red and white mixture of flowers.

I don't know where you live to be able to say if a luau would be a really good idea or if a BBQ picnic at a park's pavilion might be better or if you need to be concerned at the temperature!

For my parents' 50th wedding (golden) anniversary, I got yellow sweetheart roses and lots of daisies...Yellow was close to gold as well as my father's favorite colored rose and daisies are my mother's favorite. I put 13 daisies and 2 roses in each vase. I had one vase per table and then let some of the people take them home afterwards...I made sure I kept one vase for each family members' household and gave dear friends of my parents the others.

My father passed away after 61 1/2 years of marriage, but my mother is still hanging in!

I'm glad you want to do something special for your parents' 40th wedding anniversary.

What kind of a buget should I set aside for FLOWERS for a summer wedding?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.003-08:00

The ceremony will be at an outdoor parish

and the reception will take place indoors with a max of 200 guests...

What kind of a buget should I set aside for FLOWERS for a summer wedding?
That all depends where you live my flowers are personally costing $3000 but I am using red roses and white pom pom daisys. You just have to have a udget set up when you go talk to your florist they can usally help you pick out a beutiful batch of flowers that will fit your budget. Sometimes they will even move prices to make things work. Also think about getting some peices that can be taked from ceremony deco. to Recepyion deco that will save you some money as well.
Reply:As fr as your budget could take you. Good luck!
Reply:try using greenery it will save you big bucks! it looks great too...the amount you spend on flowers is all up to you and also depends on how big you want center pieces and other flowers. I knew someone who used asparagus in the arangement and it was great!!!
Reply:A LOT OF MONEY DEPENDS ON WERE YOU LIVE IN THE WORLD thanks ,,,,ps may be have a go doing your own for half the price
Reply:a HUGE one. Flowers are flipping expensive! I about croacked when we went to the flower shop for our wedding. If you know someone crafty and don't mind silk flowers have someone do some arrangements for you. Or do at least partial silk flowers. But it all depends on how many flowers and such you plan to have. Sounds like a big wedding. Just bouquets for u bridesmaids and mothers will cost you a good $300 I would say for a bigger wedding everything would be about $1,000 or more. And depends on type of flowers as well
Reply:At least $5,000 and that is a conservative estimate. I am talking about bouquets, corsages, boutineers, decorating the church with flowers, and on each table a floral arrangement on the tables. For 200 people, you would need at least 20 tables of ten and that is 20 floral pieces for the table. It adds up

platform flip flops

June Wedding Flowers?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.002-08:00

Our reception and ceremony will be held at the same location(reception inside and ceremony outside.) The inside decor is done in reds, burnt orange, brown etc, and I thought about using a combination of sunflowers, gerber daisies, and lillies as our flowers. Suggestions????

The Venue's Site:

http://www.deercreeklodge.net/gallery/ac...

June Wedding Flowers?
From the pictures I see, the venue is fairly simple in decor and will look great with dynamic arrangements to punch up the color.

Sunflowers, Gerbers and Lillies are all "big" flowers. I love them all, but they might be too much all together, at least for bouquets.

Check out the link for a wedding that has a "wildflowery" look but a great splash of color and uses a lot of sunflowers for the reception decor %26amp; cake.

They barely show the bridesmaid's dresses, but they are the same color as the ribbons used for her bouquet and in the flower girl's hair which are a dark pinkish red. The "blackberry" color on David's bridal website would be a great BM dress color.
Reply:Think about calla lillies
Reply:These flowers sound great for an outside wedding. My daughter chose gerber daiseys because her wedding colors were pinks, purple and peach. Make sure that the flowers coordinate with the bridesmaid dresses etc. You can even use them as cake decoration.

Should i be upset that my inlaws are throwing a wedding party for their daughter, but did not for me & my hubs

2011-11-18T20:16:00.001-08:00

my sister in law is engaged and is planning her wedding in august 07. traditionally it is the brides family who throws the party but the thing is, I told my hubs, since we are both old enough and had good paying jobs we can throw one ourselves. that was 3 years ago. i bought the dress, we even went to look at some reception places together and booked one but about a week later he told me it was filled by someone else. anyway so we had a big fight about it, he says he doesn't want to do a wedding party, b/c his family does not do wedding. so we never had a wedding. i'm the only girl in my family and my brother doesn't even have a gf. so it makes me even more upset thinking how he didn't want to give me a wedding party. so now, my inlaws want us to help them plan the wedding finding reception halls,flower places, cake,decorations,getting invitationblahblah, i'm so mad i don't want to help.everything wedding makes me upset.i only asked for two things from him n only got one. what to do?

Should i be upset that my inlaws are throwing a wedding party for their daughter, but did not for me %26amp; my hubs
The person you should be upset with is your hubby. It sound to me more like he lied to you because he didn't want to be bothered with all the planning and fuss of a wedding. For what ever reason, he decided that what he wanted was more important that what you wanted and thought lying about it was okay. (I'd start looking at your financial situation and see if he's lying about anything else.....this kind of guy sounds like he's on a power trip...or completely lazy)

But don't take that out on your sister in law. She hasn't done anything to deserve that. Channel all your anger and energy into helping her have a really great reception.....she will appreciate it, your in-laws will appreciate it and you might get to see some of the ideas you had for your reception come to life. It will do you good and it can be fun.

Then...when you and your hubby are at the beautiful reception, eating the great food, dancing and you're pointing out all the lovely flowers and what a wonderful time he's having ......say to him " see what we missed" and walk away. Let him think about that one for awhile.
Reply:I CAN UNDERSTAND U BEING UPSET. AND THAT

IS ONLY NORMAL, BUT @ THE SAME TIME U

SHOULD BE THE BIGGER PERSON AND HELP

OUT AS MUCH AS U CAN. I KNOW IT'S HARD

BUT LIKE I SAID IT WILL MAKE U FEEL SOME

WHAT BETTER INSIDE THAT U HELPED

ACCOMPLISH A DREAM FOR SOMEONE ELSE.

A U NEVER KNOW MAYBE ONE DAY U WILL

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL WEDDING CEREMONY

AND RECEPTION. IT IS NEVER TO LATE.....

AND ALSO EVERYONE SHOULD BE TREATED

THE SAME BUT IT IS NOT ALWAYS GUARANTEED,,
Reply:In a word, mature. Yup, there were reasons why you didn't have the grand party BUT you got the man. Ask yourself, which is more important. Lots of people have huge weddings and their marriages last about thirty seconds.

Count your blessings! Kiss your hubby and be as helpful as possible to your sister-in-law. Your family members will thank you. Your husband will appreciate your efforts.
Reply:That is your husband's problem, not his families. sounds lilke he didn't want to have a wedding and used his family as an excuse. If you were old enough to afford the wedding yourself, why does it matter if his family didn't "do weddings" or not.

Your family should have had you the wedding party or you could have had it yourself. It isn't your sister-in-laws fault.
Reply:dont help. you dont have too.
Reply:Doesnt sound like it was your inlaws fault that you didn't get what you wanted...your hubby is the one that said no. I say help them and and have fun with it and be excited for them
Reply:No, don't be at all. Help out with the upcoming wedding as best you can. Be nice.
Reply:You should help, at least in some small way, and make sure that she gets the wedding that, unfortunetly, you didn't have. Don't let another Bride look back on her wedding day with regrets- wishing she had all her dreams come true. But, while you're helping, I would start taking notice of things that you like and talk to your husband and ask if he would renew your vows on your anniversary or have a huge anniversary party!
Reply:Grow up. Letting go of childish hurts is part of maturation.

Ask your husband to "marry" you on your anniversary in a re-commitment ceremony.
Reply:No, you should not be upset. You should be happy and excited for them. Life isn't always fair, and your bitterness will not do you any good.
Reply:you shouldn't worry about all the things that don't really matter! who cares about a party? as long as you get to marry your guy that should be the number one thing that matters! AND if you still want to have a party after reading this talk to your parents cus typically it is the brides parents who throw the party not the grooms cus they have there own daughters to worry about!
Reply:You sound very sour about the whole thing. You should have been this upset when you got married and should have had a wedding party. Dont blame it on his family, you said you had a good paying job, then plan a wedding and dont wait for anyone else to do it. Also, dont ruin your sister-in-laws wedding dreams because of what happened to you. its not her fault.
Reply:Get over it you big baby and let your sister in law have the wedding that you never had. It's selfish of you to not want her to have a wedding just because you didn't. Seriously.
Reply:things are always different for the girls then the guys because the girls family always pays
Reply:It's ok for you to be jealous and feel upset by all the attention spent on your sister-in-law's upcoming wedding, but it's not ok to take it out on your in laws. It doesn't sound like they even played a role in your not having the wedding party you wanted. You and your husband made a decision together (albeit one you don't seem happy with now) not to have a wedding party. However unhappy you are with him about that, this is still a special time for your in laws/family. Do what you can to help and celebrate. Your sister-in-law will need all the support you can give her with the planning!
Reply:Traditionally the parents of the daughter would fork out money for the wedding, so maybe instead of being upset with your inlaws, you should be upset with your own parents.

How can i get sponsors for my 25th wedding anniversary. I want a lavish wedding/reception and honeymoon?

2011-11-18T20:16:00.000-08:00

I want a wedding for about 200 guests, sit down dinner, band, fresh flowers, beautiful gown for a plus size beautiful person, honeymoon that I never got chance to have due the death of my father and a wedding where I can feel and look like a princess for a day. I often see it with the celebrities and I would like to have this one opportunity with all that I have been through. I want to renew my 25th wedding anniversary because my husband has truly been a dream come true. However due to finances, son in college we are not able to have a prince and princess wedding. My husband has conquered lymphona cancer and this would be very special if my 25th anniversary could be spectacular. By the way it will be 25years on June 2nd, 2009 and I am getting started early. Please help me make this dream a reality. ANYONE, PLEASE!

How can i get sponsors for my 25th wedding anniversary. I want a lavish wedding/reception and honeymoon?
First, you can't have a wedding because you're already married. I'm sorry that your wedding wasn't what you wanted it to be 25 years ago, but you just don't get to do it over. One wedding per spouse. If you want to throw a nice 25th anniversary party, that's great, but you don't get a weddign gown and showers and a wedding party and all the trimmings of a wedding. And, unfortunately, you have to pay for it yourself. I, too, am a cancer survivor, my fiance had Scarlet Fever and lost an eye. We're paying for our own wedding because that's what grown ups do. There are no freebies in this world.
Reply:Please
Reply:Write this out on a cardboard sign and hold out a change jar.

Get REAL- we have all gone through stuff and we all want free stuff. My husband survived a brain Tumor- do you see us mooching for a wedding or party?

Grow up!
Reply:Hi and congratulations on your 25th!

Sorry to tell you....but DON'T waste your energy looking for sponsorship for your 25th. A vendor has NOTHING to gain by supplying you everything for free unless perhaps you were a movie star and could spread their name.

Also....why would you want to waste any money you DO have on a lavish re-do after 25 years? I think it would look a little silly for you to have the princess dress, etc.

What my husband and I did for our 25th was to have a small renewal of vows with our children present (5 people total) and then we went out to dinner after. Then my husband and I went on a trip!

I think a "re-do" for 200 guests is a little over the top.
Reply:thats alot to ask for. wouldnt you rather the so called "sponsors" would be better off spending their money on something important like starving children or something. Besides if you really want this that bad surely you can save you own money over the course of a year and a half and pay for it on your own.
Reply:Most companies will not sponsor an event unless it is for a charitable event or because there is an opportunity to really market their product for future sale. Your event is neither. It is not a charitable event and will not likely generate additional sale for the sponsors.

Also, stop being greedy. My grandmother passed away 5 months before my wedding, September 11 happened 2 months before our event, and we've gone through many difficulties in our marriage. If you can't afford your celebration, then deal with it. If you really want a lavish event, learn to save or go get a part-time job to help pay for it. Don't ask people for handouts. That's just shameless.
Reply:Why don't you get an extra job or something and pay for it yourself if this is so important to you? Why would you expect someone else to pay for something you want?
Reply:You can certainly go and try to get vendors to sponsor your wedding, but it is difficult because many vendors don't really see much gain from doing sponsorship.

Since you have time, do some research and look around and price things out. You might still be able to do the prince and princess wedding you want if you scale it down a bit and are flexible. Also consider doing a destination-themed wedding--that's always fun and special.
Reply:You have to be a celebrity. Really, only Star Jones had sponsors and thats probably about as low on the celebrity totem pole sponsors will go.

Maybe you should just have a family gathering instead.

Need ideas for wedding, colors bright pink yellow....outdoor wedding, indoor reception...?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.006-08:00

I am having an outdoor wedding at a local park that is ugly but there is no nice place close to where I live and I don't have money to go somewhere else so I figure I will work with what I have. My bridesmaid dresses are a lighter pink and my flowers are going to be calla lilies, tulips etc in brighter pink, yellow, orange, and a little bit of green and white. My dress is all white and the groom and groomsmen will be in traditional black and white tuxes. I found a pretty arbor to use at the park but need other decorating ideas...chairs are really old and ugly but dont think I can afford covers or bows for all of them. Our reception will be at our local elks lodge...also ugly :P I am wondering how much it would cost to do tulle over the walls and would appreciate any other ideas for centerpieces and things like that. Without evidence are doing finger foods and a potato bar so also any ideas for food?? Thanks!!!

Need ideas for wedding, colors bright pink yellow....outdoor wedding, indoor reception...?
Balloons can be really cheap, and you can look online for creative ballon arrangements you can do. You can use them in big groups to block out things you don't want seen, or even in the reception area to bring the eye "down" and away from the ceiling. Don't worry about the chairs. Once people sit down, they don't look at them anyway, and you won't even see them in the pictures.

Taco bar would be an easy addition to a potato bar. A dessert bar can also be elegant, and more inexpensive than a traditional wedding cake.
Reply:chech fabric store and party supply stores for rolls of tulle.try dollar stores for vines with flowers on it to help decorate. try making some of yours and your fiances fav foods. maybe a candy bar with fav candys. good luck!!
Reply:How about cupcakes with pink and white hearts on them. I saw it at http://www.DIY-WeddingCupCakes.com

motor scooter

October wedding flowers??

2011-11-18T20:15:00.005-08:00

My reception is going to be a nice orange pumkin color with chocolate brown under lay and i was wondering what flower should i go with for the colors at the reception. because for my ceremony im only using white there and i wanted to spy it up at the reception. Please help

October wedding flowers??
There is a choclate color (and smelling) flower avaiable in Oct. it is Chocolate Cosmos

http://whatcom.wsu.edu/ag/homehort/plant...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tommok/9490...

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=h...

Or brown monkey tails (scroll down page)

http://huckleberrykaren.blogspot.com/200...

Many flowers come in the bright orange - lilies, callas, gerbs, carns, roses, freesia, et.

Also check out hypericum berries - they can be tinted to a chocolate brown with design master stain (for flowers)

http://www.fiftyflowers.com/product/Hype...

hope these help
Reply:I love Gerber daisies, as the other poster mentioned! They can tend to be pricey for a small amount, however!

Zinnias and Dahlias are in season in October and could actually be harvested yourself, to save money! (Just plant the bulbs indoors or out, in pots, at the appropriate time.

And it's nice to allow guests to take this sort of thing home, as memorbilia of the wedding. You could perhaps place one large pot (terra cotta pots would go with your color scheme...maybe adorned with some ribbon or other?) with the flowers, on each table...maybe make a smaller trinket/pot for others to take. (I know someone who did this and they made an announcement that the person with a smiley under their chairs, were the ones who were allowed to take the item home)

If you want to go with the Gerbers, I would suggest VASES over pots. You could purchase clear glass vases wholesale, fill bottom with color schemed rocks or glass, add water, flowers...just a couple stems for each table. Another way to spruce the vases up even more...transfer a fave pic of you and your groom to the vase...black and white looks gorgeous on glass!
Reply:http://theknot.com/keywords/sc_150_527.s...

I suggest you check out orange flowers at site above.

Since it is October, you could also have centerpieces include small pumpkins and gourds.

http://weddings.lovetoknow.com/wiki/imag...
Reply:Gerbera daisies - they come in all colors, like yellow, orange, whites, ect. also roses, mums, and hypericum berries. congrats with the wedding!

Wedding Troubles. Please can you help?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.004-08:00

Hello, this is a long one but PLEAAASSSSE help if you can.

More than anything I want a big, white wedding, a dress, bridesmaids, hotel reception, flower centrepieces, wedding gifts etc. But my Mum and Dad are divorced and I CANNOT have them in the same room. I know a lot of people will say "just talk to them, they'll be civil for one day!" But they WON'T. My mum's husband threatened to kill my Dad as did my Mum's bro. My Dad has hated my Nan for as long as I can remember, and my Dad tried to stop them from seeing me as a child. Both families have punched each other, smashed each others windows and slashed each others tyres and my Dad even has a stab wound.

So I HAVE TO ELOPE, there is no other way. I can't invite one without the other, and so I shall have to elope just me and my partner. This is making me depressed for two reasons:

1. My partners parents wont get to see him get wed

2. I really want the wedding i've always dreamed of.

What can I do? It's hopeless

Wedding Troubles. Please can you help?
Read my answer to your other question. You don't HAVE to elope. Have a wedding, just don't invite your family. Simple really. Tell your family they can't be trusted so they have to miss out on your wedding and they will realise what their idiotic behaviour has cost them. Or don't say anything, just have your wedding without them. Or invite one side of your family only. Like I said before, don't elope, it's not fair that your fiance's family doesn't get to see him get married. He shouldn't be deprived a family with his family because yours can't act properly and his can. Have the wedding you want, DON'T have your family. SIMPLE. I really hope you take this advice.
Reply:IT is very sad that "adults" cannot seem to put their differences aside even for what should be the one of the most special occasions in their childs life.

As a Wedding Officiant I perform many elopements here in Florida on the beach, and I just want to add that they can still be quite lovely (white arches with flowers, tulle, etc.) and you cannot get a better backdrop than the beach.

I for one would elope, take lots of photos and then email them a slidshow to show them what they missed out on because of their stupidity. The wedding is just one day of bells whistles and all the frill, it is the marriage to your soul mate where your dreams are realized.

Best Wishes to you.

www.occasionallyyoursbrevard.com
Reply:You know? this is a tough one because it is either your dream wedding or your dream wedding and a fight. I think the best thing you can do is invite your parents and put them in separate tables, far, far, far apart. Talk to your parents and relatives ahead of time and tell them honestly how you feel. That this is your day, all about you and that if they love you they will stop being so imature and ignorant.

This is not the answer you want, but conversations is the answer to it all, it is your day and they have to be classy and selfless for once in their lives. I am not trying to be rude to your family, your feelings, you nor your situation but they need to leave their problems aside for one day and respect that this is your dream, your day...

Hire security if you have to, and if someone starts, even if it your dad, your mom or even your nana, ask security to take them out of the reception, no matter what, because if they will not think about you and understand that this is your day, why should you think about them and the embarassement of being thrown out of YOUR WEDDING. Warn them ahead of time; Say; " This is my day, my wedding, my dream, and I am going to have everything run smoothly. I will have my father there, my mother and relatives and grandparents and whomever decides not to act like civilized people and make things wonderful for me for one day, will be thrown out. I don't care who you are" Say that to all the people you think may cause trouble. This is your day hun, you should enjoy it!!

Let us know?!? Please?????????????????
Reply:Go to Vegas
Reply:I say symphacy to u
Reply:I would plan the wedding of your dreams and have the wedding of your dreams - without your parents. If they haven't learned to be civil by now, they are never going to learn. It's not fair to you to put your dreams off (especially for your wedding) just because they act like children. You have to remember this is not your fault - it's theirs! They can't blame anyone but themselves for the actions they have taken in the past. If they complain about your decision to not have them there, you will simply explain that you will not feel uncomfortable or embarrassed at your own wedding. You will tell them that this is what you have been dreaming of your whole life and they are NOT going to ruin it for you. Period.

You could always have someone video tape the ceremony live and have it play online so your parents can join in, from their homes.

Good luck and congratulations.
Reply:Just don't invite one and ask forgiveness later. Sounds like you have a winner of a family - maybe eloping with Elvis is a better option. If you have a family that will bring unnecessary drama in to the picture - a family that can't put aside their differences and make you and your mate the center of attention - I'd say you're doomed for your dream wedding. Put your energies into the marriage and perhaps a really nice honeymoon.
Reply:I would invite one parent and not the other.
Reply:Sounds like quite a predicament. If you are going to elope then have it recorded on a video. Maybe even have it done professionally if you can, and make a really nice video of the ceremony. Then you can share it with whomever you want to, when they are available to watch it. Take a cruise and get married. They have some terrific wedding packages where they will take care of everything and even perhaps doing a video for you.

My wife and I got married on a beach on the Gulf Coast, without telling our families and then got remarried later on with a big wedding with all the family and friends.

I know that you want your parents there, but at the same time it's the beginning of you and your finace' life together so make sure to make it about the two of you. Make it what you want.
Reply:Options?

1. Elope quietly, leaving town to do so. Combine it with a honeymoon . . . maybe Vegas or Gatlinburg or a Sandals resort in the Caribbean. Don't take anyone with you.

2. Get married quietly in his parents' living room. Invite no one but officiant, groom's parents, and your two best friends.

You cannot make everyone happy all the time. It's a fact of life, especially when it comes to weddings. You and your groom have to decide what is important to you two personally. A small peaceful event? Or a big wedding with family drama?

What aspects of the wedding are important to you? The dress? The flowers? You can still have those. What is important to the groom? His parents' presence? A wedding cake? Decide what is important, and use those aspects.

You have choices.

1. You can downsize your dreams, realizing that marriage to your groom is the important thing . . . not a big wedding that lasts only one day.

2. You can tell your parents to grow up and act like adults for one day . . . your wedding day. Hire security if necessary to enforce the peacefulness of your day.

3. Elope. Bring home a DVD of the ceremony. Groom's parents can host a post-wedding reception for their side of the family. Show the DVD, and celebrate with them at that time.

The choice is yours.
Reply:Well in answer to number 2 it may sound harsh but you cant have the wedding of your (old) dreams with your family but you can have a new dream like You could go to one of those chapels in Vegas that stream weddings via web cam so you can have the big white dress, bridesmaids and a nice reception say with 20 or so of your friends

Or do what my cousin did

who eloped she made a made a few calls they needed witness they asked her parents to go with them on a Holiday woke the up one day said we are going to get married she had still did the long white dress got married at a lookout had just her parents the celebrant and a photographer.
Reply:Sounds alot like like my parents. My father was not invited to either of my marriage ceremonies.However,if your sure that they will fight,you will have to decide what's more important.....your happiness or theirs. Your going to have to tell his parents as well as your that you refuse to have fighting on your wedding day,and that your making the decision to have a special day just the two of you. NOTHING is hopeless. As long as you have the emotional support of those who love you the most.. Does it really matter what your family or his family think? I have a very loving, and supportive family. My in-laws don't care that much about me....which is their own fault. So do what you feel is best, and have a special day.
Reply:Hi and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

You have a tough situation. This is almost the exact same scenario as was posted by another bride a few days ago.....so, you are not alone! I know that doesn't help with YOUR situation, though. It seems like you already know the answer, but are just "hoping" for others. To be honest, you really only have a few choices:

(1) And I know you said not to say this.....but.....just have your grooms parents in attendance. If you get flack from your side, then simply say what you said here....."I know you can't be civil, so it had to be this way." And, then add...."it's not fair to [groom's name]'s parents not to be able to attend, as they DO get along!" Really, it's not fair to them to be excluded just because your parents don't get along.

(2) Are you closer to your mom OR your dad. After the divorce, did you live with your mom? Again, I know you said not to say this....but really, why not just invite your mom and grandparents?

(3) Go somewhere just the two of you, along with some friends as witnesses.

I noticed that you must be in the UK the way you spell your words. Not sure where you live in the UK, but whatever you decide and no matter how small your wedding will be.....you can still make it really SPECIAL! I just love simple, small, elegant weddings!

Some options:

Have a small ceremony maybe in a country church somewhere and then go to a restaurant for a reception dinner. OR...why not a ceremony at a bed and breakfast somewhere? Many offer this option...at least here in the U.S. they do.

Get a simple, beautiful white wedding dress. Get a beautiful bouquet of flowers for you and a boutonnierre for your groom. Get a small bouquet for your maid of honor too. Have your day be really special.....go and get your hair and nails done in the morning and pamper yourself. Have you wedding and then spend the money on a fabulous honeymoon somewhere.

Good luck with your decision! I hope you have a beautiful wedding day!
Reply:invite them to a rehersal... if they play up there make them aware that they wont be attending the day....

this is YOUR day good luck...

i know what its like i have a brother and sister that used to try and kill each other, they can sit in the same room now, thank god!

and make sure you tell them that this is YOUR day and if they bring up their problems they are just selfish.
Reply:Why do they hate each other? Is your dad a gambling drug addict? Did your mom cheat on him when they were married? Or are they both bad people? I would invite the parent who's a good person, no longer associate with the bad parent, or if they're both bad, I wouldn't bother talking to them any more - it's not worth the drama you will have for the rest of your life.

If you don't want to do that, then you're right, you aren't going to have the big fancy wedding.
Reply:If your parents cant act civilized for their daughters wedding. Dont invite them.
Reply:My best advise is to talk to both your parents and ask them if they'd want to attend your wedding. Im sure they'll say yes, then tell them that its your special day and you would be very grateful if they both can behave themself on that day. Make sure you don't sit them anywhere close during the ceremony %26amp; the reception. And also, perhaps having a close frend/cousin constantly near them during the whole ceremony may help to assist any disputes that may arise. Hopefully it won't... Good luck!
Reply:I know this may sound silly, and a bit extreme,

but have you considered hiring a "bouncer" - perhaps someone you know that is really big.

And then have your dream wedding.

Perhaps your parents would more civil if they knew that there was a big man ready, willing, and able to toss them at the minute he sees ANY trouble.

You won't even have to think twice, he'll manage their behavior.

Sounds extreme, but your circumstances are a bit extreme.

Just a thought?????
Reply:I think you are looking for ideas about how to have a wedding, and you probably don't want to hear 'just elope'. So here are my thoughts:

Is there anyone you can count on to keep your relatives from attacking eachother? What about hiring security to ensure there are no problems?

You could have two ceremonies - - one with your Dad %26amp; His Family, another with your Mom %26amp; Her family, of course let your partner's family attend one or both, then have a separate reception (on another day if necessary) and do not include your parents.
Reply:If you want a big white wedding, then hav eone.

Invite your family. If they can't respect your day and act like douchebags, then that will reflect poorly on THEM, not you.

I say, have your big wedding.
Reply:Since you seem to be set on having a dream wedding you could hire a few police officers. At my wedding the venue made us hire a police officer since alcohol was being served. Maybe you can hire a police officer or two. Let the trouble making families know that if they act up they will be escorted out or arrested no exceptions. Remember if this happens it is their embarrassment not yours.

Also make sure that Your mother and father are seated away from each other. I had a few people who did not get along seated away from each other and had no problems. They just ignored each other.
Reply:Have a destination wedding at a place like sandals. They do the white dress and all that. . Which are you closer to?

Invite that one . Then have a party later with the other family. That is a way to get out of the drama.'

SO have the wedding you want some where where people Will have to travel. Invite one (mom or dad) then come home and have a reception with the other family.

Good luck
Reply:Ok, this is the time for straight talk. It's pretty obvious you can't invite one without the other, but you and your htb do not deserve missing the wedding of your dreams. You will just have to toughen up, because they have proved themselves uncivil neither is invited. Plan your big beautiful wedding, have your day. After the wedding/reception is over plan a small and sweet "reception" with each side of your family. That way they each get the same thing, nobody gets more than the other and you still get your big white wedding. If it comes down to you just can't have the wedding you want without your mom or your dad, then have them there and the other one will just have to understand. The thing is, if your parents were adults and really cared for you the way they should they would understand the situation and be willing to step aside to see you happy.
Reply:My partner have been having discussions about how to elope without having WW3 too.

This may sound weird but maybe a web cam? That way your partner's parents and even your own can see your wedding in real time no matter where you or they are?

I am so sorry for you, and I hope your wedding will be as wonderful as you dreamed no matter what. At least the man you love will be by your side, that is something to be thankful for :)
Reply:Elope, it's about you two and nobody else.

HELP with July wedding flowers & colors!?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.003-08:00

I am getting married next July. We have just picked our venue, it will be an outdoor ceremony %26amp; tented reception. There is no real theme yet. I wanted one of my colors to be like a lilac or periwinkle - but I learned that lilac is not in bloom in July.

Can anyone recommend any other flowers close in color? What about an actual THEME or another color to compliment?

I have no idea what I am doing!

HELP with July wedding flowers %26amp; colors!?
you can use orchids, freesias, lisianthus

or how about Lupine and yellow lillies or sunflowers.

yellow is a complimentary color to purple/lavendar

you can have your bridesmaids wear lilac with yellow accessories or even put half the girls in yellow and the other half in lilac.

you can get clematis plants with purple flowers and have the vines cover the four corners of the tent. get some petunias in lilac and plant them in pretty pots and they could be used for center pieces on the tables - you could even put candles in the center.
Reply:Check out flower options here

http://theknot.com/keywords/sc_150_527.s...

And no theme is necessary. "Wedding" is theme enough.

If you need another color, why not white? Lilac and white? Or periwinkle and white?

Dress the bridesmaids in periwinkle, and have the little flower girl in all white.

Picture groomsmen in something like this with periwinkle vests and ties.

http://www.tuxedoavenue.com/vest/vestdet...

This site does have the periwinkle available.

Your groom could wear the same tux with white vest and white tie.

Just some suggestions.
Reply:Hydrangeas are in bloom in July and you can get them in gorgeous shades of blue/purple:

http://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/
Reply:very bright, vibrant and summery colors bloom in July, such as the lotus. Pinks, purples, reds and oranges would be ideal for your wedding. :)
Reply:i got married last june and had all roses including red, hot pink, yellow, and orange....the bouquets were beautiful!
Reply:could do red, white and blue for a 'theme'. Do whatever colors you like! Congrats! :) :) :)

Teeth Whitening

HELP! Wedding Reception Setting Ideas?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.002-08:00

My colors will be hot pink, hot purple, bright green for accents. Can you give me some ideas on what I should do for the table colors (table covers, chair covers, napkins, chair sashes). The reception is going to be at a country club and our room is surrounded by windows and a walk around patio. So you get a really nice view of the golf course. My flowers are going to be the hot pink and purple and the accent of the lime green. Any table color and setting ideas would be great! I don't know if I want the table cloth to be the bright pink or purple or should it be more sublte?

Thank you all in advance for your help. Greatly appreciate it!

HELP! Wedding Reception Setting Ideas?
Lime green was one of my colors too--I had a tropical theme. What I did was had the buffet tables in lime green and the main tables turquoise. So it sorta looked like the sea with the land around the edges. My napkins were fushia or sand colored. For yours I'd suggest using a slightly darker than hot purple. Still bold but more of a royal purple for the tableclothes. Lime green for the tableclothes on accent tables--food, favors, gift, cake. Hot pink is so bold I'd save that just for accents like the flowers and perhaps napkins. Alternating looks more like gumballs in a machine and bold pink might clash with flowers and/or make the food look sickly. Especially if you are having meat.

Also a slightly darker tablecloth helps draw the eye outside to the beautiful golf courses too. With that bold colors--don't do chair covers too. That would be too much and try to add a neutral in there as well. Perhaps if your vases are clear, put sand to hold the flowers in place. Or use white for your dinnerware.
Reply:Go with white table cloths. To bring out the colors you have chosen, place pink, purple and lime napkins on the tables. You do some tables in pink, others in purple and others in lime. That way, you can look out your guests and see all the colors. Also consider colorful centerpieces to accent the colors of your wedding. You can even color coordinate your place cards. Family members of the groom, purple, your family pink, friends lime, etc.... Just a thought. Congratulations!
Reply:I think the table and chair covers should be a bright white...that way you dont have colored covers clashing with anything else...the sashes should be, as I saw someone mention...alternating in the bright colors you have chosen ( which i LOVE by the way...I moved my wedding to sept...but if i was doing a summer wedding those were my choices)...I saw a really cute arrangement when I was at my florists of they were REALLY big margarita glasses with a floral arrangement inside of it...I just thought it was super cute for a summer wedding...and with your colors i think that would be really cute!...but definately go with a more subtle color for the chair and table covers!
Reply:you can do layered table cloths. on some of the tables hot pink on top with lime green on the bottom and on the rest hot purple with lime green on the bottom. you can have neutral color flowers center pieces so that it wouldn't be overwhelming like long stem white lillies in tall vases with pink, purple, and lime green marbles inside or beaded chains of those colors flowing out of the vase to give contrast to the flowers that are going up. the napkins can be the opposite color of the tablecloth that they are on so you will need both pink and purple. the chair covers should match the table cloth

congradulations. i hope that your day turns out to be everything that you hope it to be.
Reply:black chair covers would be awsome
Reply:More subtle??? You cant be subtle with colors like HOT PINK and LIME GREEN!!!! Are you setting up for a 1980's theme or what??? I think brown would be an absolutely perfect touch...LOL...
Reply:I would definitely match the chair covers with one of the 2 rich colors you chose, pink or purple,as well as the napkins.

I would use a light and sublte table cover with just a hint of color.

Dont overload the loud colors, as it will be too agressive!
Reply:It might look really stunning to have the table covers bright white with the purple, pink and green napkins alternating. Or each table could be different, one purple, one pink, one green, on and on. And the centerpieces could reflect it the same way. Good luck and God Bless your marriage.
Reply:White tablecloth. If you do the tables all in color it would almost be too much. Just imagine looking at a hot pink table while trying to eat dinner. I love the color choice though. Makin one hell of a statement. Just remember that the entire time people are eating the look down at the table.

Congrats though. Beutiful colors for im sure what is going to be a great evening.

Wedding flowers?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.001-08:00

I want fresh cut flowers in clear vases on the tables at my reception. Colors are pink, black and white...any suggestions?

Wedding flowers?
Hi and congratulations!

I just LOVE real flowers myself! I would go with BRIGHT pink (not pale) roses!!! Pink and black look so good together!

My second choice would be PINK lillies. OR, the big gerbera daisies. They are nice too. I would stay away from carnations, they remind me of a baby shower.

Good luck!
Reply:Cymbidium orchids, pink calla lilies, and white roses in clear vases.Iridescent runners of pale-pink silk shantung overlay an black tablecloth and candles. Report It

Reply:What about all pink roses in a clear vase with a black ribbon with white polka-dots tied around it? Or the ribbon could be black and white checks or stripes...
Reply:roses and carnations

Wedding stuff...?

2011-11-18T20:15:00.000-08:00

What is everythind you need to have for planning a wedding? (flowers, music, food, reception, guests, etc.)

Wedding stuff...?
Minister and photographer should be at top of the list.

Rings.

Marriage License.

Wedding cake and topper if you want one.

What are you going to put the flowers on--arch, candelabra, unity candle stand, etc.

What kind of food--appetizers or full meal and what are you going to serve it on--paper or china, paper napkins or cloth, plastic cups or crystal glasses, etc. Have finger foods/snacks for guests to munch on while photographer is taking pictures.

Flowers for tables/centerpieces.

Name placecards for table if you're arranging seating.

Wine or champagne for toast and glasses. Special goblets for bride and groom.

Party favors or keepsakes?

Program which you can print on your computer with colored paper--people like to know what the order of the ceremony is and it makes a nice keepsake.

Runner for aisle so bride's dress doesn't get dirty.

Basket with petals for flowergirl/pillow for ring bearer.

Tables, chair, tablecloths, etc.

Sound system for music.

Lighting if it's going to be outside in the evening.

Hair and makeup help.

Clean-up help.

Transportation for Bride and Groom away from wedding site.

More. Much more. Elope while you can!
Reply:Cars, bridesmaids, gifts for your bridesmaids, and for both mothers, and your bestman, wedding list, honeymoon hotel, it depends how much your budget will cover, even the dress'es, and the shoes, hair, make up, book pre-wedding hair do with the hairdresser, just incase yuou dont like it on the nail, thats what i did, have your nails done a couple of days before and everything else should fall in to place, just don'nt forget the invites.
Reply:wedding dress, shoes, accessories

bridal party and apparel and accessories

tuxes for the guys

invitations

plus everything you already said

a wedding will cost about 7500.00 and up maybe a little less expensive if you can rent an activities all and do the food yourself
Reply:go to the knot.com--they have lots of resources for planning a wedding. good luck! In the beginning, it seems like alot, and it can be...but its up to you whether its a stressful situation or not...
Reply:you want to get married do your own research! jeesh!
Reply:you answered your own question. lol

all you need is the money to have it like you want to.

best wishes!!!
Reply:apart from what you mentioned photos, decorations and money
Reply:You might want to get a photographer at least to take wedding pictures if not of the reception too. If you want to do a unity candle ceremony you'll need to get those. Congrats.
Reply:That is about it.

Don't forget LOTS of money.
Reply:a gift for the guess at there table
Reply:theknot.com has an awsome planning checklist

Small wedding and reception ideas? help?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.009-08:00

we are getting married in late September- in Gatlinburg, TN. We only have about 35 people that are coming (family). Sat night- we are all going out for a big barbeque....so the night before is taken care of. the day of-is where i am drawing a blank! since it is very small- AND i have never actually been inside of this home (only pictures- and it is amazing- it is a HUGE cabin)- it makes it hard to think of decorating. I was thinking of small candles....flowers in mason jars (saw that on martha stewart) to keep with a "country" setting since we are in the mountains...hm....yeh- that's it! and the reception. i have already gotten the cake taken care of- but want a "sunday afternoon tea" kind of reception. any ideas on simple finger foods? plus- there are lots of nieces and nephews that will be there- so food for younger kids, too. uggh! haha! (this is a simple family wedding in the smokies- not a hick- redneck kind! just so we all know!) haha thanks for any ideas!

Small wedding and reception ideas? help?
Your wedding sounds beautiful!! Congratulations and I wish you many years of happiness.

Finger foods are a great idea. There are lots of things you can buy ready-made so you avoid having anyone (especially yourself) stuck in the kitchen all morning. Head to your local Costco or Sam's Club for some easy appetizers. Try to pick a wide range of foods, even some you don't really like, with different preparation methods. Some you can just defrost, some need to be warmed in the oven, some can be popped into the microwave. Offer a variety of colors, tastes and textures. Make sure you include some "basic" foods like fresh veggies or fresh fruit. They'll appeal to the younger kids, as well as anyone with food "issues" like dieting, or an unwillingness to try new things.

The key to making it a beautiful buffet, versus a redneck spread, is your presentation. You can rent serving pieces so all your dishes are the same. Then use a background for each one: paper doilies, large lettuce leaves, etc. Arrange the food nicely and your guests will literally eat it up.

Next year, when your guests think back on your wedding, they'll remember how beautiful you looked, how touching the ceremony was, and what fun they had. They won't remember what they ate, who they sat by or what they wore, and they certainly won't remember what they ate... unless it was horrendous or amazing.

Here are a few good websites for finger food ideas:

http://www.cookingvillage.com/cv/recipe/...

http://www.recipezaar.com/recipes/finger...

http://www.greatpartyrecipes.com/party-f...

Have a wonderful wedding!
Reply:there is finger food that looks like cake but its actually sandwhiches piled together its colored bread also. if you can find someone to do that its the best and most unusual thing to have done. in texas at heb stores do it but i know its exciting to eat tis and very good.
Reply:As far as food goes, I plan on doing just a dessert reception. It's cheaper and you get to eat more chocolate :).

Um, finger foods that come to mind would be little sandwiches, petit fours, perhaps mini quiches and cheesecake bites (Sam's club sells a box of 40+ assorted little cheesecake squares. Delicious and affordable!). Maybe some fruit, like melon balls, etc. Try looking up traditional tea foods.

As for the kids, have a special "kid's table" with chicken nuggets and other "kid friendly" food. You could even do a special "kids table" to sit at, with butcher paper table cloths and crayons. It's a lot of fun for them!
Reply:I would call a local caterer. If you will email me, I will suggest one or two to you. I will have to look at my vendor list from my wedding when I get home. There are several who are reasonable. If you dont want a caterer, I would check with one of the local resturants and see if they can do something. Again, email me and I will see if I can get you some names and numbers. Please let me know what type of food you like, so I can get you the appropriate resturant. I live in this area, and will be happy to email you info.

dress shoes

Wedding Flowers - Reasonable Budget?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.008-08:00

Hi All,

I am getting married in the Summer and my fiance and I are up to our necks planning the big event. One of things we are organising at the moment is the flowers.

My fiance wants a nice boquet, along with smaller ones for the 2 bridesmaids, then there is table decorations for 8 tables at the afternoon reception.

After visiting a florist, she has come back to us with a quote of around £350 - does this sound reasonable ?

Any opinions appreciated.

Wedding Flowers - Reasonable Budget?
Remember you will have to buy buttonholes (like carnations) for the groom, best man and ushers.

In Scotland we usually buy buttonholes for the parents and grandparents of the bride and groom as well.

Also, do you want flowers to decorate the church?

But for what you have listed, that's not a bad price. Maybe a little on the high side, but ok. (But of course I don't know how big the bouquets and table pieces are, so I'm in the dark!)
Reply:sounds good, it does cost alot for the flowers but its what makes everything pop. It just wouldnt be complete without great looking flowers. You could look for larger flowers for the table decor so you dont have to use as many, or you could use some greenery and use less flowers, the colour will pop out more on the flowers against the green stems, and you wont have to buy as many.
Reply:I would say that sounds great! We spent over $3000.00 USD on flowers for my wedding! That is just for bouqets, coursages, and boutineers (granted I had 9 bridesmaids)! So yes, I would say you are getting a great deal!

Congrats!
Reply:Congratulations.!!!!!

That's very inexpensive for a couple of bouquets and 8 table decorations. I would ask the florist to show or describe what she/he will be doing. Also ask what kind of flowers will be used in the bouquet. This will give you an idea of what you will be getting on for the quote. On the day of the wedding, sometimes brides are disappointed because it was not what they imagined. If possible show the florist clippings and pictures of what you would like. It really helps out everyone.

Roses are the least expensive flowers to use in a wedding. I know there are far less expensive flowers out there like carnations and mums but I would never suggest them to my clients.

Good Luck and best wishes.

Jennifer
Reply:I was able to get my flowers for much cheaper than your quote. I think the price range started at US$30 per table (and they were NOT skimpy) and went up from there based on what kind of flowers you choose. Some florists I heard about would even offer better deals if you were ok with cheaper flowers, such as carnations, etc. The bouquets for the wedding party were much more per piece.
Reply:i think it sounds very reasonable. but if it doesnt suit your budget you could pick up some cheap vases(from pound stores etc) and put few floating tea lights or something like that
Reply:yes sounds good i have seen prices that are higher than that
Reply:If you want real flowers it will be more expensive. I only spent $100 on my wedding flowers. I bought rubber and silk ones. I have 5 bridesmaids, 2 junior bridesmaids, 2flower girls, a ton of corsausages and boutineers, and then of course the alter bouquet and the table decorations. My bouquest are huge too. Find some deals.
Reply:If not sure if they have these in your part of the world but wholesale clubs sell flowers really cheap if you want to arrange them yourself.
Reply:I had silk flowers at my wedding. My bouquet cost around £60 and it was probably another £80 for 80 button holes, 7 Table decorations and 1 bridesmaid bouquet.

The great thing about having silk flowers is that they keep, and we gave the tables decs to my Nans, Aunties etc.
Reply:God i know how youn guy's feel i'm planning mine for next summer.

i was going to say try a local forist but the qoute isn't to bad.

what area are you from ?
Reply:yes my girl friend is getting married in July 120 guests her theme is different flowers of the world on each table ,6 brides maids %26amp; 1 flower girl her total is $1500 US
Reply:thats a good price, I'm getting married in 8 weeks and my flowers - and all are seasonal - are just short of £500 for about the same
Reply:Sounds good to me. I think that is a pretty good price to pay.
Reply:reckon that sounds quite good - flowers are very expensive especially when made for weddings as they have to be at their best and freshest
Reply:yes that sounds right. i got married 18 months ago and i paid £140 for my flowers and 2 bridesmaids and had 6 tables as well. oh and it also includes 14 heathers for the kilts. hope this helps and good luck
Reply:Probably as this woman is making a living. Can you not have a o at making your own flowers? Decorating tables is easy and for yourself maybe one rose, one lily, would look so good....Have a go yourself...you can save a lot of money....Even get other family members to join in. At least ask them!
Reply:http://weddinghelp-now.blogspot.com Has good information and links on planning a wedding.

http://weddinghelp-now.blogspot.com
Reply:depends where you live, but your local market can be a good and cheap source....when I got married in Toronto, the local chinese market made my wedding flowers and everyone commented on them lttle did they know they only cosy 75 canadian dollars for the lot!!!!! So try your local market they're gonna be alot cheaper than a florist......
Reply:Yes! If that includes the table decorations it is a fantastic deal!

Wedding/Reception Suggestions?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.007-08:00

My fiancee just got the job of his dreams, so we decided to get married in Nov. There is little time so I am trying to get all of the suggestions I can. I wont be an expensive wedding. I am registered on theknot.com, but I need some suggestions about flowers, centerpeices, ceremony decoration, and neat little things like that. I reallllllly love flowers but I am not sure what kind to use in the fall, and I really dont want leaves. Im still deciding on my colors but here are my picks, 1-deep red, %26amp; chocolate, 2-wine color, chocolate......and I think that I will use gold also. Help please...........only 6 months!!!!????!!!????

Wedding/Reception Suggestions?
It sounds like you are doing good. You have your colors picked (deep red and wine are virtually the same color--look for bridesmaids gowns and go with whatever shade the gown you love comes in). I'd pick up a book to help you plan.

My mother made a great notebook. A 4" notebook and divided into sections. Bridesmaids, Hair and Makeup, Flowers, Cake and I can't remember the rest--filled w/ those clear pgs that you slip pages into the top. Each time I found a picture that I liked of a cake or a bouquet I could put it into its section. Then once I decided on the bridesmaids dresses, I cleaned out that section of all the rejected dresses.

Take your bridesmaids shopping for their gowns. My bridesmaids are built nothing like me so everything I kept picking out (which would have looked fabulous on me) looked horrible on my sister.

Figure out your budget. Thats always the first step. Ezweddingplanner.com and Theknot.com have budget calculators that can help you figure out how much of your total budget should go to each section.

There are loads of questions on Y!A about how to save money--read through those answers for suggestions on cost savings.

Figure out which is most important to you. For example, flowers didn't really matter to me. I don't know a mum from a rose, and I cut a lot of costs in that area. I met with my florist much later on so that I could show him pictures of my dress, the bridesmaids dresses, and the fabric samples from the tablecloths so that he could substitute and give suggestions. For some though alcohol isn't important and they cut corners by not having any alcohol served. It's all whatever is important to the 2 of you.

For invites, look online. I used www.annswedding.com and www.invitationsbydawn.com. They had lots of cheaper invites that were beautiful.

Modern Bride has some checklists in the back that are great. First is to look for photographers and reception halls as they tend to book up sometimes more than a year in advance. Then call caterers once you know how much money you'll have for them. That can help you plan your menu more than anything. Plus often caterers already have the person they rent silverware, glassware, tablecloths from --so that will take the stress off that. My place only needed to know 2-3 weeks in advance.

You don't have to spend much decorating the church. It already has decoration with stained glass windows and architecture, plus its the first time the guests will be seeing bridesmaids gowns and of course You in your gown. They are already on sensory overload.

Centerpieces--people spend hundreds on them and in trying to make a unique statement. Check with your reception hall though--they might have mirrors for the tables that you can borrow for free. One arrangement I think would be very pretty and quite formal is to have a wine glass filled with a red and pieces of dark chocolate scattered around below the glass on the mirror and some dark red rose petals.

But after you've figured out your budget, rented your hall and photographer, and while you are dress shopping--figure out how you envision. Do you want a formal wedding? More casual? Evening, morning? How do you envision this going? I always imagine fall weddings as afternoon (like 2-3 pm) with the reception being late afternoon 3-6ish. It's around sunset. I don't know why--but that seems fall to me. But figure out how you envision it.

Your colors are gorgeous and you have plenty of time to get everything just as you want it. Don't stress too much. After all its one day. You know you are with the perfect man and you want to spend the rest of your life with him. This is merely the day that lets you start all that.
Reply:You'll be fine, first off you need to relax. Since you've already been on theknot.com, you know they've got the timeline tables and charts and everything, what you need to concentrate on is getting your to-do's down to that 6 month mark, and then from there just take it as it comes. If you haven't gotten your gown yet, I'd suggest you do that before tackling flowers or anything else--I'd also suggest you book a location ASAP--especially if you're planning a Saturday evening reception--those locations tend to book up months/years in advance. After you've got that nailed down, the rest should start coming together. Take a walk in the farmers market, look at flowers, look in magazines, etc. Keep a file of everything you like AND everything you don't like--even write on the photo what you do or don't like about it.

Personally, I like your deep red, chocolate and gold color scheme--it's what most of my house is decorated in right now! ;-) Think autumn colors, think of autumn flowers like chrysanthemums, even roses in deeper colors. You could have a theme of something around floral abundance--given that November is Thanksgiving--I'd try to tie that in to the wedding somehow.

Just get organized, make that list, and get going. I planned my wedding (that was in January) in 5 months, so it can be done. Hire a planner if you're at all worried, sometimes they can get stuff done quicker than you can, simply because they have all the contacts in the industry. Good luck and congratulations!
Reply:first of i think allsmeer flowers would be simple and go good with a chocolate wine colour setting they are elegant yet simple fall flowers - center pieces try a small 2 layer double chocolate cake with red table covering piece amongst all tables - banquet halls are always the simplist . the sheraton fallsview hotel looks perfect and yet honey moon in niagra falls is so romantic and classy-elegant. - not cheap but not too expensive and fits- using the oaks grand ball room sits 560 which would probably fit everyone depending on family size on both the brides and grooms side. As for the brides flowers and bridesmaids bouqets - roses are say classy and and yet simple always the ones that are the late bloomers . But your day is your day all that matters is what makes you happy and not what other peoples opinions are . as for ceremony decoration twigs tied around the alter brings the feelings of outsideness to inside and yet pretty and plants hanging in each corner of the room does even things out with a fall setting...but as i said these are just suggstions because your day should be nothing but perfect happiness its all in your hands - so have a ball and congradulations.
Reply:Gerber daisys always give me a fall impression and they come in all different colors of the rainbow.

The best advce I can give you is to be alomost anally organized. Get a binder and make sections and start tackiling things one at a time. 6 months is doable, but you have to be really on top of everything.

You can do it!
Reply:I only spent $6000 on my wedding.

Instead of real flowers I bought fake flowers, ivy and hershey kiss roses.

You can order the hershey ones in any color you want and put them in vases in the center of the tables. They smell amazing and look great. They also worked well as guest favors.

I took the fake flowers and sprayed them with glitter hairspray so they sparkled pink or silver to match my theme. Arranged the hershey flowers and the fake ones in a clear vase and tied ribbon around the vases. I bought placemats to put the vases on and sprinkled them with glitter also.

I spent $300 for all my decorations.
Reply:well, i can tell you about the dream wedding i did;

the whole thing was hawiian themed and had a budget of $1000.00.

We got big fake hibiscus flowers for the girls to carry and then they set them onthe main tables at the reception to help decorate.

Instead of fancy suits, have all the groomsmen and groom wear plain dress pants and jacket with a bright hawaiian shirt underneath. Then have the bridesmaids and maid of honor in a pretty forally dress. My girls wore knee legnth red dresses with really fancy hair.

Since i live in florida we got married at the beach. and then went to our local church for our big luau reception with lts of finger foods and bbq. But a family or friends house would have worked well too.

All the tabels were decorated with seashells and candles and we got an arch that lit up for picts at night. the party was amazing with frozen drinks and lots of food.

We saved a ton of money by doing most everything ourselves, our big spending was on the food and pictures. (having disposable cameras everywhere helped though) We also had lots of cute things like having everyone sign a blank photo frame instead of a guest book and put picts of th ewedding in it. it was great.
Reply:Your colors sound great for fall. In silk flowers their are so many options. I would not want leaves either.
Reply:For our wedding we had hollowed out pumpkins with flowers in them for the centerpieces. You could even use those white pumpkins, it would look nice with your colors. We also had those mini pumpkins carved out to fit tea light candles that we used around the cake and on the head table. I know you said no leave but we did have some fabric leaves from walmart with glitter that we used as table confetti. It also looked pretty. :) For favors we gave out caramel apples. People really seemed to love it; we bought extra and actually ran out because people were taking more than one home with them.

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa299... (please ignore the crazy conga line and all the stuff we have on... our DJ gave out props. And this was the only picture online I had of the centerpieces.)

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa299... (the wedding cake was made by my hubby's grandmother so it's very simple, but we absolutely loved it!)
Reply:I love your color pics. They both sound beautiful. :)

For decorations and stuff, you should get a catalog from Oriental Trading Company (www.orientaltrading.com). They have a lot of wedding stuff in there for really cheap!!! I got two personalized wedding flutes less than $10. I was shocked!
Reply:Dress color go wine, chocolate and gold if you can.

For some cheap flowers in the fall you can get Mum plants pretty cheap in most areas. Something that you could do is stop by a floral shop and ask to look thru a book and ask about fall colors and plants etc. You really could use any kind of flower and color that would compliment your bridesmaids dresses and if your dress has any hint of color that too.

Check with the church and see if they have anything that you need to get in-particular. I ran into that when I was talking to my current Chucho a few years a go when I was engaged to be married. But I never was so I have many ideas and things purhcased but have not used.
Reply:Have you ever thought of a destination wedding, they have packages at alot of places that will do most of the work for you... It's cheaper than a real wedding and you can combine the wedding with the honeymoon... I just got married in Cabo San Lucas on the beach and it was great not to have to plan anything! Everything was BEAUTIFUL and more than I expected. Good Luck!

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Wedding Flowers!!?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.006-08:00

I am getting married in May in a pavilion by the ocean. I have no ideas as to what types of flowers that I should be looking into to both decorate the pavilion and the reception hall afterwards. The hall is also by the ocean. My maid of honor's dress is a blue color, but the wedding has no theme. Any suggestions would be great. I am 21 --- my mother and mother-in-law-to-be are no help at all! Thanks in advance!

Wedding Flowers!!?
Lillies, sweet peas, orchids, jasmine %26amp; roses. the smell will be heavenly! (and they look fantastic together. I had all of these in my bouquet.)
Reply:I suggest visiting weddinglenox.com and post your request. Their matching system http://www.weddinglenox.com/f-membersign... will match you up with local vendors with pricing you specified. I tried it and have good result as I only recieved response from vendors according to my request.

One problem I had with my wedding is that it is hard to locate vendors in most website as most likely they group by states and there are too many of them that's too far from me and I have to look at each site to figure out.

The sites I provide above have a easy to use layout to show you pictures, pricing and location in one page plus, you can send out your inquiry for matching vendor to contact you. That save me lots of time to locate the best vendors with the right price.
Reply:Get some orchards or some white flowers.
Reply:Boo on flowers! Go with sea shells! I did glass fish bowls with sea shells and live beta fish as centerpieces and it was a HUGE it. We floated some purple orchids on top but the fish were such a fun thing for my guests and many of them are now pets in their homes! We had roses scattered around the cake table but nothing too fancy or expensive. We also used drink umbrellas as decorations for the guests' glasses. They're VERY cheap at any party supply store.

Warning: Male beta fish, although very beautiful, will kill eachother so if you want more than one fish in a bowl, get the girls. They're smaller, cheaper and if you have kids coming to the wedding, they'll love it.
Reply:Go Simple... the ocean is so beautiful... and fancy flowers like roses seem out of place...

Look for some flowers that have blue in them and mix with creme/white flowers...

Go ask a florist to look at some books... or pictures...

Here is a list of flowers that have blue in them -

Anemone

Cornflower

Delphinium

Eryngium-blue thistle

Eustoma-Lisianthus

Hyacinth

Hydrangea

Iris

Misty Limonium

Monkshood

Muscari

Scabiosa

Trachelium

Veronica

You could also do a something that is in a complementary color -

The florists can help. Talk to more than one!

You can probably look at pictures on websites for ideas too... I took pictures for ideas to a florist when I got married and I loved my flowers!

Good luck!
Reply:Calla Lillies are elegant and beautiful. Consider those. COme in all colors.
Reply:orchids, lily's, a soft flower that is flowy if that makes sense. Try to find pics on the internet.
Reply:Check website theknot.com for ideas %26amp; remember it is much cheaper if you use a flower in season. That is in season for where they are shipping from - not locally.

My daughter had her bridesmaids carry 18 muti-colored roses %26amp; she carry 2 dozen white tulips with white streaming ribbons. It was simple %26amp; beautiful - little distraction from her %26amp; her gown.

Lillies are lovely %26amp; hydrangaes are large, come in several colors %26amp; easy to decorate with. Good luck!
Reply:Hydrangeas would look stunning.

Also try for some butterfly bush (aka buddleja or buddleia) if you can, though it might be out of season. It smells magnificent and comes in a whole rage of colors.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, click on the link.
Reply:As a floral designer, I would recommend setting up a consultation with a few local florists. Almost always, florists will do this for free. All you have to know beforehand is what kind of theme/colors you want to go with and about how much you want to spend. A good florist will sit down with you and get all the information they need, and then come up with several styles of designs based on what you tell them. And many times, they will have most of the flowers on hand to give you an idea how the finished product will look. A few days after the consult, they will send you a quote in the mail. Then you can choose which florist you prefer. Also, you might want to bring with you clips or pictures of arrangements you like. This will help the designers get a sense of what styles you like.
Reply:I love calla lillies. They are so beautiful and classy looking, especially in a bouquet.

For tips on flowers for decorations, try this link: http://weddings.theknot.com/weddingplann...

I used www.theknot.com for almost all of my planning. I even created a webpage for my family and friends to keep up to date on the planning.

Congratulations!

I'm planning my wedding reception does this seem pricey?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.005-08:00

I got a price from a catering company, the hall is included in the price so are taxes and grutuities (wrong spelling), as far as I know so is the DJ. For a buffett, with a 6 hour open bar, a table of fresh fruits and vegetables including dip and punch, wine and a sweets table with tea and coffee is $65 a person, so they told me it would be $6500.00 for a hundred guests.

THE BUFFET MENU IS:

Buffet #4 (Hot %26amp; Cold) (min. 50 people)

Linen, China %26amp; Silverware

Assorted Bread, Rolls and Butter

Garden Salad with Dressing

Caesar Salad

Macaroni Salad

Potato Salad

Coleslaw

Beans Salad

Steamed Mussels

Cold Meat Platters

(Black Forest Ham, Smoked Meat, Turkey %26amp; Salami)

Assorted Pastries

Hot Items

Roast Sirloin of Beef

Tortellini Alfredo

Roast Potatoes

Seasonal Vegetables

Tea and Coffee

The cake and decorations could have been included but my Grandmother makes wedding cakes, and flower arrangements, and I know alot of ppl who want to help decorate. What do you think???

I'm planning my wedding reception does this seem pricey?
This doesn't sound bad at all.Please get everything in wriitng (IF the DJ is included or not) I don't know where you are but,this is a lot for that price point. Good Luck!

I just noticed you live in Canada. I live in Medicine Hat here is a price comparison for you. the meat platters you have cost $85.00 a platter for 25 people as did the veggie platters and the pasteries were $54.00 for 25 people where I wentThe roast dinner was 19.99 per person Thats almost 3000 without the bar, wine,room fee, bevarages and sweet table. You got a good deal book quick! Also you can google Medicine Hat Lodge (not where I went but, you can see what their catering costs online just to give you a better idea of what some canadian prices are I don't know of any others with the prices online)
Reply:That sounds like a steal! Can you ask to talk to other couples who have been married there as references?
Reply:Sounds OK to me.
Reply:Our daughter got married last year in Ontario, Canada. I think the price you are saying is reasonable. You mentioned that it included an open bar for 6 hours, plus wine, and the cost of the room. I think it is a very reasonable rate. Congratulations!
Reply:It sounds good but you absolutely have to sample some of their food. It might be really cheap and gross. It might be just fine but you don't want to pay for terrible food. See if they have references or better yet ask a question here with the name of the place and see if anyone has been to a reception there. Absolutely meet the dj and make sure his style is suitable for your guests.
Reply:my god what more do you want......the taj mahal too
Reply:Well if you need to be on a budget you do not nessicarily have to go that far, you can have a reception at a freinds house, or find some where cheaper
Reply:It sounds to me like that's a really good deal, considering it also includes the open bar. Make sure you sample the food beforehand, though--you want to make sure it's yummy! Congratulations!!
Reply:I think that's pretty pricey. Don't forget, you still have to pay for other things, like a gown, and the flowers, and decorations, and invitations, photography, and lots of other things. Don't be quick to assume that your friends and family will pay for things, even if they do help you to put things together.

Also, we paid for a catered meal for our daugher. That did NOT include the DJ, nor the booze, nor the bartenders.
Reply:congratulations! your list sounds very reasonable to me.
Reply:that is pretty standard for a caterer, especially if it includes the open bar, dj, taxes and gratuitie. Does that also include the locations, linens, tableware? Many caterers charge $30-$50 per person without providing ANY of the above mentioned items. A 6 hour open bar itself could cost you $1500 - $2000 for 100 people.

What shall I wear to an Evening Wedding Reception?? UK please?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.004-08:00

What shall I wear to an Evening Wedding Reception?? UK please?

I am going to my cousins Evening Wedding Reception on 10th June. She is getting married in Florida this week and holding an evening do (At a Castle) for everyone who obviously couldnt join them for the wedding. But what do I wear? Ive only been to 2 weddings 1 when I was 2 and a flower girl and the other about 5 year ago but it was Scottish so you wore the same thing from morning til after midnight! (also i was a little larger then)

Do I wear a dress and some sandals or heels or trousers and a top... I want to look nice as I've looked hideous on photos in the past and this is the first time a family event has come up and im not single! I'm 25, size 10/12, 34D, and 5'4, dark medium length hair, if that helps.

I saw this dress and thought it was nice:

http://search.next.co.uk/nav/cat/01women...

I'm not the most fashion concious person out there so any help would be appreciated!

What shall I wear to an Evening Wedding Reception?? UK please?
wear something smart that you feel comfortable in dress or trousers either is fine DONT wear white that is for the bride.
Reply:You wear whatever you feel comfortable in.
Reply:Don't wear jeans!!!

Which dress?? Loads come up.

Don't wear a black dress.

Wear a summer dress and dress it up with nice shoes, bag and accessories.

Or dress leggings up and a smock top.
Reply:go in your birthday suit
Reply:i would suggest a nice pair of fashionable jeans.. with some party shoes.. a little bling

and a nice fancy top... comfy, stylish and can look really sexy
Reply:Nice dress, shame your not single :)
Reply:Honey, you have a perfect figure you can carry anything off - even a binbag!

For me, if i was going to a wedding - that was just a cousins and I had no relivence to the wedding, i think i would just wear a nicely fitted pair of white linen trousers and maybe a kaftan style top with indian shoes.

But then again, if you wanted to go for something a little bit more "I have a wonderful figure LOOK" wear a really nice basque dress - jane norman have great ones. Im your hight and they fit perfectly to about 2cm above my knee :)

What are some unique ways to personalize our wedding and reception?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.003-08:00

I know by choosing things that we like: music, food, flowers, decorations.....

I'm just trying to figure out some things that will make our wedding "us". I mean like having a cake topper that looks like us, embroidering our last name initial on the table cloth that the cake sits on, etc.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

What are some unique ways to personalize our wedding and reception?
write your own vows. pretty much...everything you do is personalizing your wedding but...idk. that is the only thing i can think of...
Reply:I really like seeing bottles of wine with the bride and grooms picture on the labal with the date of the wedding that is sweet to so all the guests can take it home.lol
Reply:There are just so many ways to arrange flowers %26amp; tie bows yet it seems there are more than a few questions asking how to make their wedding different.

So what spearates one wedding from another? People might remember that the colors were pretty and definately that the bride was gorgeous.

But what people will remember the most are the words spoken. You see, words mean things. They will remember the words you say to vow your love; they will remember the words spoken by your minister/officiant.

Experience tells me that those couples who spend a few extra minutes on the "Do you take" part never feel their time was misspent.

So what do you want your guests to take away with them after witnessing your wedding? What do you want them to feel? What do you want to say to them? To each other; to God?

It is your officiant's responsiblity to come up with a ceremony that reflects your love %26amp; personalities. Any input you can give them is usually most appreciated. I think you will find the most meaning here.
Reply:This is a really good website featuring cake toppers that look like you and the groom. You can choose your background, the colors, add a child. Its very creative. http://www.weddingshowergifts.com/weddin...
Reply:Have an original song written for your wedding!http://www.freewebs.com/originalsong/
Reply:cousins of mine choose little things to put on the tables as guest favors that showed their personalities. They had different kinds of candy and even the bracelets where you crack them and they glow..it was cute.
Reply:To be perfectly honest, there really is no way to make your wedding that much more memorable to guests than any other, but you can personalize it with your own style. The sad thing is, all the extra expense you will go to will probably go unnoticed by a lot of guests, so make sure you are OK with that. I think you have some good ideas already, so why not run with that? There were lots of good ideas presented here already as well. The one thing I would not do though is the personalized vows. It's a little corny, and all those cute things you do for each other that you mention in your vows are going to go over everyone's heads. I just say this because of all the weddings where vows were written by the bride and groom that I have gone to were not exactly well received. A lot of people rolling their eyes over the sheer length and sickeningly sweetness of the vows, as well as the fact we sometimes just didn't know what the heck they were talking about!But anyway...as long as your wedding is personal and memorable to you and your groom, that's all that really matters right?
Reply:Just to add to others' creative ideas, we sent thank you notes to guests with their photos with us during the wedding to remind them of our special day.

It is a way of adding our personal touch for guests to remember us, our day, and how their attendance made the difference.

sports shoes

I am looking for pretty green flowers to use to decorate my wedding and reception. The gowns are apple green.?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.002-08:00

I would like to mix two different greens together for the decorations. Are there any suggestions?

I am looking for pretty green flowers to use to decorate my wedding and reception. The gowns are apple green.?
Instead of green flowers I would suggest going with an ivory or pale yellow/green flower. I think using a brighter green would just be overkill. You can accent the flowers with matching green ribbon to keep with the theme. You can use green tulle inside the vases, or green decorative rocks in the vases on the tables. I think this would be mushc prettier since green can be such a strong color.

Something like these lilies would be beautiful

http://www.wedding-flowers-guide.com/

Here are some white roses and white tulips with lots of greenery

http://www.pmflorist.co.uk/acatalog/Perf...

I love this cascade bouquet with cala lillies, they are just a tiny bit green

http://www.wedding-flowers-guide.com/cas...

You should also go visit a local florist and see what they can show you and what they reccomend.

Good luck I am sure you will find the perfect thing!
Reply:I know this isn't quite what you asked, but I think green with green will get lost, and you should use some other color to show off both the flowers and the dresses ("make it pop"). Consider orange or cream.
Reply:Ivory and green orchids, so pretty!
Reply:Kermits AKA button mums are cute
Reply:My dresses will be hunter green and I am going to have (hopefully) Calla lilies with a green wrap around the stem to tie in the green.

Go to theknot.com and look at their wedding flowers/bouquets. They have so many that can give you ideas of what you like.
Reply:i found some pretty green flowers the names of them are Clematis and more names of green ones are : Zantedeschia, and hydrangeas are nice.
Reply:Green Hydrangeas and green cymbidium orchids

Green Calla lillies and green hanging amaranthus

Green button mums and green roses

there are tons of combinations
Reply:Bells of Ireland are green and beautiful.
Reply:Sounds pretty but do you think that's too much green? How about mixing it with other colors? When our niece got married last June, she have victorian lilac and mst of the flowers were purple, even her bouquet but in the reception area the florist mix purple flowers w/ white and alittle bit of green for the leaves.

Any ideas how I can decorate the reception table the flower colors are Pink, Lime Green with Orange Accents?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.001-08:00

We are having a destination wedding and have planned a local reception here in NY. We are having a champagne buffet brunch at a very nice restaurant along the Hudson River. The restaurant is very plain and neutral so I that is why I went so bold with the flower colors. Since I can't really decorate the restaurant what else can I put on the tables to tie in with the flower colors. The arrangements are really tall and slendor. Looking forward to your great suggestions....Thank You.

Any ideas how I can decorate the reception table the flower colors are Pink, Lime Green with Orange Accents?
Hi,

First, pick one of your colours as your predominant colour - use that colour for your accents. Say you pick pink you could get pink:

If you can put tablecloths on (or for just the head table), go to a Little India area and go a saree shop. They use beautiful, vibrant colours with beading and prints and the fabric is cheap.

Make your wedding drink Bellinis or some brightly coloured 'girlie' drink - in martini glasses with a cherry garnish - pretty!

Jellybeans!!!

Napkins, matchbooks and other paper goods, ribbon.

Find someone to do a fruit sculture (asian chefs seem to know how to do this)

Do Pink champagne

Bring the green and orange in with vases perhaps, the bridesmaids'/ushers' gifts, the guestbook

My fiance is being a little controlling about the wedding.....?

2011-11-18T20:14:00.000-08:00

So I understand that the wedding is supposed to be just about the bride and groom, but I suggested today that we do something nice for both of our parents at the wedding reception to honor them for their support. I was already planning on saying thank you in the speech, but wanted to present them with flowers or something else to show our appreciation. My fiance (the bride) FREAKED OUT and said that the wedding is 100% about us and not them and that honoring them would offend her. What should I do?

My fiance is being a little controlling about the wedding.....?
I would quietly discuss this with your (singular) parents. Believe it or not, they are your friends and probably much more aware of the people and politics involved than you are.

Unlike you, your GF has been planning this for at least 20 years. However, that aside, it is very important to remember there are things you must do in the ceremony, things you mustn't do, and it's a free-for-all in the middle.

As I see it, honouring your (plural) parents is not only correct, it is a MUST! After all, they, between both families, have spent nearly a million dollars in bringing you up and supporting you. For her to believe it is just about "us and not them" is very shortsighted (it could actually be some sort of power play). Believe it or not, you don't just marry a person, you marry them and their parents, their brothers, their sisters, their children (yep, this is a modern world) and their aunts, uncles, grandparents and grandchildren too!

I suspect your parents would probably consider your behaviour towards each other and them (note the "each other" bit) as more important, so a short "thank you" in your wedding speech is sufficient. Believe me, the proper behaviour towards each other isn't ALWAYS easy either (this case is a classic example).

I do think the idea of flowers (or whatever) are a very nice gesture, but again, I don't think it is necessary.

Thinking about this a bit more, there is actually a very important point here: the excessive emotion without explanation over a what is really a trivial expense may (note "may") mean a deeper problem behind the scenes.
Reply:If your bride does not want to do it at the reception ask if you could do it at the rehearsal dinner. You could just do a toast to the parents at the reception.
Reply:Oh my. I actually went and saw a reverend about my ceremony and we have a special part where she thanks our parents and we give gifts.

Its about you...yes. However, what about the people who support you? ie. the parents?

If you haven't seen a reverend yet, make the appointment and they may even suggest the honoring of the parents.

The wedding is focused on the couple, but its catering to the guests because they bring (traditionally) gifts and money to pay for themselves, essentially.
Reply:Maybe bride was just having a bad day?

Try the rehearsal dinner.

The rehearsal dinner is usually hosted by the groom and/or his family. Make your speech at the rehearsal dinner. Give gifts to both parents and bridal party at that time.

Allow wedding day focus to remain on bride and groom (as your bride wishes). But honor and thank your friends and family the day before, at the rehearsal dinner.

Sounds like a good compromise to me.
Reply:why would she be offended? to freak out about wanting to honor her parents and yours seem very selfish. I would make sure you understand who your getting married too because there will be many things in your marriage that may involve your parents or hers or other people. and how will she react then. lots of woman get married because they want a wedding. and so it has to be their idea of what a perfect wedding is.. you need to remember that there is a marriage after a wedding.
Reply:tell them way you feel
Reply:I'm honoring the parents. This isn't about the bride and groom, it's about the formation of a new family coming from two different families. That's the way I see it. If you can't be thankful to the parents, then you can't really be thankful for the man or woman you are marrying. I'm extending a wonderful thank you to my fiance's father and mother and giving his mother flowers. He's doing the same for my parents.
Reply:My first thought was "get a new bride" but that' isn't going to work, is it?

Your parents have supported you both in your lives and I love the idea that you wish to honor them.

Your bride sounds very immature and selfish.

When my oldest married, she presented her bridal bouquet to her grandmother instead of throwing it . It was a surprise and her grandmother was so thrilled to be honored.

I hope your bride grows up and realizes that while she is the bride, she didn't get to this point in her life without her parents and ditto with you and your parents.
Reply:75% of the time a Bride who turns into a "Bridezilla" is actually not getting upset about the thing at hand, it is usually something else that is nagging her and she is either avoiding dealing with it or doesnt realize what it is that is really bothering her.

I would say sit down with her for a NO WEDDING TALK night. Take her to a movie, or a spa night or something. Anything to relax and get her mind of wedding planning for a night. Then offer her as much help as she is willing to allow. When you approach her again about honoring them at the wedding have something specific in mind not just an "or something" and then tell her in a way that wont immediately make her raise her guard. i.e. "Hey honey, what would you think about having a pull-away flower (here's the "specific idea part") for each of our families in your bouquet so that as a part of the ceremony we can Thank them by giving them the flowers." if she rebutts this with wanting it to be about only you both you could tell her that the Thank You's will make you both stand out because it is You both that will be stopping the ceremony for the moment to give the flowers, not the parents coming up to get them, or if you would rather, try "honey, I know you want to have the ceremony be only about us since it is our big day, but it is very important to me that we honor them with this very small part of the ceremony."

If she truly loves you she will at least be willing to discuss the issue, maybe there are other reasons she doesnt wish to do this... maybe she had a disagreement with one set of parents or the other. As I said though, she should at least be willing to discuss it.
Reply:I think its a very sweet gesture to do something like that. In my wedding I had two roses in my bouquet and after we were pronouced husband and wife I took them out and handed my husband one. I took the other and gave it to his mom and a hug and kiss as well as a hug and kiss to his father, as he did the same with his to my mother with a handshake to my father.. They loved it.

Flowers for wedding! I am asking my bridesmaids to wear these gowns...?

2011-11-18T20:13:00.003-08:00

http://www.davidsbridal.com/bridesmaids_...

in OASIS.

So, my gown is kinda grecian looking, made with silk charmeuse.

I like real simple, not much greenery...but am not sure the color of the flowers. Our reception will also be based around the oasis color...while incorporating peacock feathers into the invitations, maybe into some of the bouquets, or even some other small details (def. not going overboard!).

What color of flower...what type of flowers should I have for bridesmaids, myself and for centerpeices?

Flowers for wedding! I am asking my bridesmaids to wear these gowns...?
White tulips would be gorgeous
Reply:I like white roses for the bridesmaids. Very pretty dresses!
Reply:Be sure your flowers contrast the color of the dresses and don't blend or they don't show in the photos. The peacock feathers sound fabulous. The BM dress is a teal; you just need to pick another of your favorite colors and let the florist guide you on what flowers will be available in that color and for your budget. Pick pinks, yellows, reds, whites and ivories, or a mix of colors. Generally if you decide on a color and a style, the florist will make something that you'll love. To help determine the style you want, the florist can ask you questions or show you pictures.
Reply:I agree, white lilies would be beautiful.
Reply:These bouquets look dark, but I think it's just the lighting -

http://www.fluffytails.ca/wedding.asp

http://www.angelfire.com/biz2/plumesnfea...

http://www.yourweddingcompany.com/index....

http://www.brides.com/forums/thread.jspa...

http://www.anoctopussgarden.com/Peacock_...
Reply:Tulips or calla lillies
Reply:damn, your gown rocks! good choice. I could never fit into something like that. the BM gowns are great too. how about simple plain bunches of long stemmed cala lilies? I don't know if they dye them or if they just come in white but I think it would look cool to have white flowers with the blue dresses, and then blue flowers with your dress.
Reply:the dresses are very pretty. i wore that bridesmaids dress in a wedding and loved it, my husband thought i looked sexy in it. i also love the idea of adding the peacock feathers to the flowers. i think mostly white flowers would be nice, you need sleek flowers like calla lillies.
Reply:I went to my florist with a similar dilemma...what flowers for my girls!

she directed me to the oriental lily....very simple, very fragrant, extremely elegant...and very hearty...they will last! She gave me a stem with 5 buds on it...and it lasted over 2 weeks!

They will rest in my girls' arms with a simple ribbon tied around them and flowing over their wrists.

I think this would look absolutely gorgeous with your girls' gowns!

Good luck!
Reply:Tulips and calla lilies are great. I also love dahlias, ranunculus, and peonies, depending on the time of the year of your wedding.

You could do an all white bouquet to stand out against the dresses, if you aren't into much greenery or a variety of blue flowers. Try browsing theknot.com's flower bouquet gallery. Or just type in "turqouise flowers" in google images or bouquets in images. I got alot of ideas that way.

Good luck.
Reply:Given the Mediteranean feel, what about bit 'rougher' of a bouquet with olive leaves, fig, eucheliptus (spelling is way off, sorry) and baby's breath? That's a very bold color and it won't jive with your dress to have crazy florals in the BMs flowers.
Reply:Some plain white day lilies would look beautiful with the bridesmaid colors, even for the wedding decorations.
Reply:I love the dresses that you chose, especially your wedding dress-very elegant!

I definitely think tulips or calla lillies would look very nice!

Good luck!
Reply:I would go yellow... Roses maybe... or lilies
Reply:What about something simple, like some white calla lilies?

http://i.walmart.com/i/p/00/02/55/42/41/...

Or maybe some tiger lilies with white roses...

http://www.theromancespecialists.com/ser...

Or you could go for a nice yellow Cymbidium orchid bouquet...

http://tgis.wetserver.net/liveimages/bou...
Reply:my sister used dresses that looked a lot like that and her girls carried orchids. I heard a lot of the ladies talk about how elegant it was.
Reply:i agree with whit tulips

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Where else can I incorporate my wedding theme during the reception?

2011-11-18T20:13:00.002-08:00

I am having a green apple wedding.

This is my cake:

http://flickr.com/photos/24484702@N00/14...

This is my wedding favor/placecards (candles):

http://waxwizard.net/images/h/appleplace...

I was going to use real green apples as my centerpiece but I got a deal on flowers so I'm going to use flowers instead and I feel like my theme needs something. Any ideas of how else I can incorporate apples into the reception?

Where else can I incorporate my wedding theme during the reception?
Wow, those are just beautiful!

Have green apple slices and caramel dip as an appetizer. They can be dipped in lemon juice and stored in cold water until use to avoid browning.

Have apple slices floating in the punch or as a garnish in drinks.

Make your signature drink an apple martini.

Make your girls' dresses and men's ties apple green.

Normally I would say you should do your tables names as different types of apples, but your theme is specifically green apples, so that doesn't really fit.

I wouldn't do more apples on the guest tables. The place cards are enough. You could hollow some out though and use them as candle holders on the banquet and drink tables, though.
Reply:i suppose you could have the menu centred around apples? even if it's only in one course..

thats a tough one! lol! i cant think of much else..

i can suggest some colours that go nicely with apple green though:

~ apple green, deep aqua, deep fuschia and dirty pink (pale)

~ dirty apple, apricot, hot pink and nectarine

have a lovely wedding! hope you think of some more ideas x
Reply:You really dont have to go crazy with the apples. You already have them on your cake and on each table. I think that if there were more than that, it would start to be overwhelming. I think you have done well! You could incorporate some of that color green into the centerpieces and flowers, but I wouldnt put more apples around than you already are having.
Reply:Even though you got a deal on flowers, you can still incorporate apples into the centerpieces. It would be inexpensive and you could do it yourself.

You could add apples and dipping sauces like caramel and chocolate on the dessert table.

You can also incorporate the colors of apples into lighting like votive candles on the table that are apple green and cream.

Good luck!
Reply:In one of Martha Stewart's Wedding magazines, they had apples om the place card table. Each person's card was simply pinned onto the apple. Was very pretty. I wouldn't go overboard with it though, hints of apples here and there will be appreciated.
Reply:I own a country club and handle all of the wedding planning for the club.

On your place card and gift table you could have an elegant arrangement of green apples, flowers and greenery. This would set the idea of your theme right from the beginning.

Instead of a guest book, try to find a plate to sign or a picture to sign that may have the green apple theme as well.

I think you would want to stay away from fresh sliced green apples in a display because they would turn brown in a very short period of time unless they are dipped in a preservative. I was thinking that you could garnish each champagne glass with a sliced green apple, but again, you would need to make sure that the apple slices are preserved. We typically garnish our champagne glasses with sliced strawberries

You could serve a fruit tray during the cocktail hour that would feature green apples in some way.

It is easy enough for a chef to incorporate cooked apples into a dish to be served at your meal.

Perhaps you could find favors or small votives with a green apple theme. Stay away from scented candles....you should NEVER have strong scented candles at your reception. Strong scents interfere with ability for your guests to enjoy the food.

I hope I gave you some ideas....have fun planning your wedding!!
Reply:One idea would be to give the tables each unique table names - types of apples; Granny Smith, McIntosh, Golden Delicious, etc There are more then 7000 varieties so a little searching online will easily come up with enough varieties for all your tables.

Wedding reception decor?

2011-11-18T20:13:00.001-08:00

I have no idea where to even begin decorating the reception hall. I'm wondering if anyone has pictures of their reception? I would love to see what others have done! I'm also open to suggestions. Bridesmaids/Groomsmen are wearing an apple green color. Flowers and some accents are light pink, peach, and ivory. Are ice sculptures too overdone? What are your ideas on balloon decor? Thanks!! Oh, reception is in a ballroom at the Hilton.

Wedding reception decor?
You shouldn't need to decorate a ballroom, and definitely not with balloons. Have you seen your room set for a reception? They look very different when they have all of the lights on and the tables are set. I doubt they will let you do much to the space.

And don't feel that you need a theme, you don't.
Reply:Decide on a theme for your wedding. This may make it easier to choose decorations. Do your research on line, bookstores, etc. and decide on ideas that are suitable for you. Choosing a wedding planner will work well if you don't think you are capable of pulling this off alone. Try to have your reception decor similar to your wedding decor to have it all flow smoothly. Remember to keep it classy!!!
Reply:Ballroom at the Hilton sounds nice. Balloon ideas: no balloons! They just dont belong at weddings.

I think the apple green sounds awesome, and if you used that for your centrepieces the room would really pop with color. Apple green flowers in square glass vases. White linens.
Reply:Okay, I have been in and decorated lots of weddings. The Granny Smith Apple Green color is really in. My sister chose this color (Called Clover at David's Bridal) and it is beautiful. We filled vases with real granny smith apples and then put the flowers coming out of the vases. It was beautiful and really added a burst of color without being too overdone. Ice sculptures are beatiful. If you want one go for it! Your colors sound beautiful. I would suggest the vases with green apples, then flower arragements of pink, peach and ivory with it. If you want a real Cinderella wedding do what i did. Rent some Roman Colums to outline the dance floor and hang tulling and tiny lights around the top and around each column. It looks lovely and really sets a romantic mood. You dont have to spend thousands! Just some ivory linen table cloths, a flower arrangement on each table, some tiny lights and beautifully decorated cake, food, gift, and entry tables. If you are still at a loss of what to do, I recommend going to webisites like brides.com theknot. com etc. and you can see photos of real weddings. You can also search the color green to find green weddings.
Reply:First you should check with your venue to see what they allow. Tape, staples, nails etc. Alot of them are very specific as to what they will let you have. Good luck.
Reply:Here are a few ideas for your reception. I really love the shades that you have choosen. I think it will look beautiful, and there are lots of things you can do...

http://www.cccrflowers.com/images/recept...

http://www.cccrflowers.com/images/center...

You can also go to theknot.com and look at real weddings. You can search for them by color, season or location. It will give you a lot of great ideas.

As for the balloons-they can be beautiful when done right, but I personally think that balloons are more for a birthday party and less for wedding decor.

Ice sculptures are beautiful-when you can afford them.

Chocolate hearts for wedding cupcakes?

2011-11-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

As some of you know we are having a chocolate themed wedding. Our cake is made up of one 7" cake on the top with several layers of cupcakes on a stand below. The cupcakes will be of vanilla and chocolate but will all be wrapped in a gold foil paper that has a heart filigree punched out of it. They will all have an ivory colored white chocolate flavored frosting. I also want them to have little milk chocolate filigree hearts on each one, but I'm having a terrible time trying to find them, or even a web site that shows you how to make them yourself. Any ideas? Or has anyone even seen a cupcake like this?

Sort of like this only smaller

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=h...

Chocolate hearts for wedding cupcakes?
http://www.cookingvillage.com/cv/food/ar...

If you had to make them yourself ... this looks like something that your baker ought to be able to do, too...
Reply:Maybe you could do a small heart shaped sugar cookie covered in chocolate instead, and it will be light enough to stand on top of the cupcake.
Reply:You melt chocolate and then put it in a bag with a small hole in the corner you drizzle the shape on wax paper let it cool and gently peel the wax paper. Work fast so the chocolate does not melt
Reply:I like the first and last one... or you could go to a baker and tell them how to make it and buy it

I need an opinion....?

2010-05-21T23:39:00.001-07:00

I found this amazing idea online for my wedding reception but I wanted to get some opinions on it... I found this website called scentevents.com and basically you rent this machine and whatever scents you want (example scents they give on their website can range from baked apple pie, chocolate, popcorn, to flowers, or margaritas) can scent the reception hall for the length of the reception to give it a themed feel. I am planning a fall themed wedding reception and I thought the smell of spiced cider or apple pie would really give our guests the feel of autumn but I'm not sure how people would react to this! What do you all think?!

I need an opinion....?
it sounds neat, but it might be a problem for others....some people have allergies to that kind of thing and others are sensative or just plain dont like certain scents. the apple pie would be a problem for me becuase the smell of cinnamin makes me feel sick. it might also give people headaches to smell it the whole reception. I honestly wouldnt waste the money on it and risk it being a problem for your guests.
Reply:I think that is A great idea!!! People will love it if the scent is not too strong.
Reply:sounds cool , good idea and something different
Reply:I love scents, and think they can make any place feel more beautiful. I love the spicy apple scent you are talking about, and think it would be a lovely addition to your ceremony venue! Best wishes!
Reply:I love the idea. I love smells and I love when smells remind me of something. It would be sweet if the smell of spiced cider always reminded your guests of your special day.
Reply:Why not use a bunch of spiced apple candles and give it a nice glow?? Try to incorporate them into your centerpieces.
Reply:I wouldn't bother. Let the scents of the flowers you will have and the food you will be serving be enough.
Reply:That's a very nice idea :)
Reply:I have never heard of anything like that, but it seems pretty cool. Sounds like it could get expensive though. Why not just use candles?
Reply:I'd advise against it. I have many friends who are allergic . . . and need everything unscented. They would become ill and have to leave the reception early. That wouldn't be any fun. =(

I'm serious. I have some friends one cannot even wear cologne around. If you use a scent and have just one person like that in attendance, things will not be fun.
Reply:As long as the scent is not too overpowering (in case some people don't enjoy that particular scent or have allergies of some sort), I'm sure that it would add a nice touch to the reception.
Reply:that sound wonderful, just make sure the scent isn't overbearing as some people get nauseous and headaches...you know what i mean, when youre stuck at the movies next to the woman with a whole bottle of perfume on?
Reply:This sounds good in theory, but I think it may be a mistake. One reason, obviously, being that many people are allergic or very sensitive to perfumes and scents. Secondly, for the same reason you never put a scented candle on a dining table, you don't want any smells to compete with the meals, it can definitely ruin the dinner.
Reply:that sound so cool. i am get married next month i am going to go check out that website thanks
Reply:I am not sure I would go with a "scented" wedding reception. What about those who may be sensitive to smells or those with allergies. If you do decide to go with it, I would recommend candles, that way it is less invasive and those who are sensitive could possibly steer clear easier.
Reply:very unique idea, I like it.

as long as it is within your budget, and your fiancee agree with it too.
Reply:You might want to find out if people have severe sinus problems first. If they can not use scented candles then they may not be able to take it. Or find out if it is a strong sent or just a hint of smell.

Other then that it sound like a very cool ideal.I know that the sent of spiced cider makes me think of fall.

Good luck and i hope you are able to do it.
Reply:welli think that would be a wonderful idea
Reply:my mother's work would do something similar to what you are saying and it would smell so great. :) as a guest i would love it, i would do it. :)
Reply:I would suggest serving spiced cider and pie. Have the actual natural aromas fill the air. Scent machines typically use artificial chemicals to achieve different scents. If you have any asthmatics coming to your wedding, you might end up with an ambulance at your reception. That would definitely NOT be the ambiance you wanted.

Can I use black bridesmaid dresses without using black in the decor?

2010-05-21T23:39:00.000-07:00

I really want to use champagne and ivory for all the decorations, invitations, etc. but this color doesn't look good on my bridesmaids. We're getting married in June of 09 and our wedding is at night. The ceremony is in a church and the reception is outdoors. Our flower colors are ivory and blush pink. Would it be appropriate for me to use black short cocktail dresses for my bridesmaids?

Can I use black bridesmaid dresses without using black in the decor?
Hi and congratulations!

YES, that will look nice! Very pretty, especially with the flower color choice. You certainly do not have to have everything "matchy-matchy." I love the lighter colors for the decorations and flowers (especially at night), and against the black dresses....it will look beautiful.

Good luck and I hope you have a beautiful wedding!
Reply:You can use black bridesmaid's dresses without using black in the decor, but you may want to consider using a few black accents (if only at the reception site) to help tie things together. Or you could figure out how to use champagne or ivory as an accent in your bridesmaids' ensemble.

Have fun and good luck with your wedding planning and congratulations on your upcoming marriage!
Reply:I don't remeber my aunts wedding that much, but I do remeber that the bridemaids wore balck because they wanted to and I don't remeber much black elsewhere. I think it would look fine. These are bridemaids, not more decorations. They could probably wear that again too! I think that would be a nice choice.
Reply:Absolutely. Black will go with anything. Use a little Ivory accents on the bridesmaids dresses or blush pink in their jewellery and that will tie it together and remember it is your day and if that's what makes you happy then go for it.
Reply:I think that could look good. A friend of mine did something similar. Her bridesmaids wore black dresses but all had colorful bouquets. Everything had a splash of color and since the bridesmaids had colorful flowers it looked great.
Reply:I wore a black and white dress in my friends wedding. It was beautiful. We all carried red roses. I honestly don't recall what color the decor was. Don't sweat the small stuff.
Reply:As the bride , you can pick anthing you want.
Reply:Absolutely!. It would look great and you could tie it all in by having the bridesmaids wear pink jewelry.
Reply:I think black always looks good. I agree with you...those lighter colors do not always look good on maids, especially if they are a little bigger like me. It will be pretty, good luck.
Reply:I would think that would look great. Good for you for thinking about what your bridesmaids look good in - I once got stuck in a yellow dress - which makes me turn green!
Reply:Yes, it would look great.

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Small flower vases?

2010-05-21T23:38:00.003-07:00

I need to find several small flower vases, and by several i mean about 48. They don't have to be very pretty or anything expensive, in fact the cheaper the better! Any ideas? Or suggestions for websites or alternatives? I need them for my wedding for the reception tables. They only need to fit about 3 to 4 flowers.

Small flower vases?
I know I've seen vases at Hobby Lobby and you can probably find them at any craft store as well. A florist shop would be a great place to look, but might get expensive. Here are some places online that sell small vases.

http://store.auctionaticstore.com/jobjb4...

http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.asp...

http://www.discountmugs.com/usa/glasswar...

These cordial glasses would work nicely:

http://www.discountmugs.com/usa/glasswar...

Good Luck
Reply:Most Dollar stores have inexpensive vases. Also you can try a wholesale outlet like Dollardays. I have found some inexpensive items there before.

Also try Oriental Trading

Reception colors?

2010-05-21T23:38:00.002-07:00

My wedding is in July in Vermont. Finding vendors has been difficult, especially flowers. After many ideas denied by florist, we have settled on purple/white hydrangeas with a white peonese (sp?).. but mostly purple. The reception is in an all white tent. My concern, which could be completely off, is that it will be too much white if I have white table cloths. I am thinking of an ivory tablecloth with a sheer ivory overlay. Is this too white? Does anyone have other suggestions for tablecloth colors?

Reception colors?
what color will the ribbons for your flowers be? I would use that color, either a white or off white for the table cloths....at least the under cloth that reaches to the floor....there can be a smaller cloth that only hangs down about 10-18 inches from the top...that is a color that coordinates or compliments the colors in your flowers. Don't have all white in an all white tent.
Reply:a cream color would look so pretty with those flowers you described

good luck and congrasts!!
Reply:well I personally dont think a wedding can have TOO much white unless the bride is maybe, like, 80 yrs old or something, but if ur using purple flowers(I think the ones u listed are medium to dark purple, right?)...so how about a lilac coloured tablecloth? Its purple with enough white mixed in so its not like a lavender or something like that. Hope this helps. Congrats!!

also, if it helps, u could scatter petals from ur flowers on the table for a splash of colour.
Reply:why not add more purple and shades of purple as accent colors. make the bridal table as the white and then additional tables in like purple and lavender and lilac and amethyst you could also use grapes as decorations or accents. the leaves with the grapes are actually very pretty that would also be a good idea for centerpieces maybe a pillar candle surrounded by grapes and leaves (do not need to be real) silver is also a good accent color with purple or antique gold or even black

What is your perfect wedding?

2010-05-21T23:38:00.001-07:00

Mine takes place on a sandy beach in Hawaii. All my friends and family are there, I have one of those beautiful, high-fashion wedding dress and a bouquet composed of a medly of flowers. As my father escorts me down the aisle, I see my boyfriend, dressed in white tuxedo, and he's cut his mane of shaggy blond hair and shaved off his sideburns. We stand in front of the minister holding hands. We exchange vows, then we exchange rings, and we are pronounced man and wife. He kisses me tenderly and we run to the stretch limosine which takes us to the reception at a lovely hotel, where the first song we ever dance to as husband and wife is Jimi Hendrix's "Unrealeased Tribute to Stevie Rayvon." Finally, at the end of the day, we get on an ocean liner for our honeymoon.

What is your perfect wedding?
New Year's Eve around 11:30 pm in a warm dim lite Cathedral decorated with beautiful white flowers, candles, clear white Christmas lights. The melody of Cannon playing softly in the background while guests arrive and are seated for the grand event. My father escorts me down the isle at 11:45pm in my breath-taking one of a kind gown. The wedding song "And then came you" is sung duet as I walk down the isle after my wedding party has entered. My fiancee awaits my arrival with the most tender look upon his face. The ceremony is gracefully performed and ends just after midnight with the most passionate kiss between two who have just became one. After the ceremony we will be taken to a lavish hotel suite to spend our first moments together, alone as husband and wife. A huge reception would be planned the evening of New Year's day-- It would be an event our guests will talk about for quite some time! Honeymoon departure on January 2nd-- a romantic 4-5 day cruise to an exotic island.
Reply:The perfect wedding is when 2 people are in love and the wedding part is really no big deal, priceless, for every thing else there is mastercard.
Reply:at a train depot and exiting on the cabose
Reply:I am getting married in summer of 07. And to tell you the truth a perfect wedding for me would be just him waiting for me at the end of the aisle, no matter if its just the two of us or 500 people who show up. Everything else is just secondary and should not be a priority. A lot of people spend thousands even hundreds of thousands of dollars to celebrate something so special but it really is not all that neccesary to exploit your checkbook to do so. And most brides or people that are married would agree. Good luck with your wedding plans.
Reply:I want to get married on the beach maybe in Malibu barefoot wearing my jeans. Then just have barbecue food and beer. Very casual.
Reply:My perfect wedding is the one I had a year ago. Everything went as planned and everyone had a great time.
Reply:wedding is a waste of money. the parents and friends instead should give the money to the newly wed so that they can use it to get on their feet.

go to the court and have a simple wedding.
Reply:Lol I love how you fantasized his hair being 'shaggy blond and shaved off sideburns." How cute!

Your perfect wedding sounds....PERFECT!

What duties do i need to insure people are doing before wedding date?

2010-05-21T23:38:00.000-07:00

I'm getting married outside so i need to make sure things are Being done.

the recepition place is in charge of setting up and taking down.

the park is just going to be the park and chairs

So I have:

bring chairs to the park and taking back

hanging up programs on chairs

Decorating tables at reception

handing out flowers

taking my dress

taking my flowers

taking gifts

cleaning up decorations at reception.

what else do i need to insure someone is in charge of?

What duties do i need to insure people are doing before wedding date?
The florist should deliver your bouquets to the wedding site and any flowers you have ordered to the reception site. Getting wedding insurance in case something unforeseen happens. The person making your cake will deliver it to the reception site and set it up. I would give the cake knife and server to your baker as well. What about favors for the guests? Who is responsible for setting up the bar? I know you aren't having alcohol but are you serving non-alcoholic beverages? Who supplies them and how are they served? If you are serving punch, you'll need a punch bowl unless the reception site provides that. Are your guests tossing anything as you leave the ceremony site? If they are you need to bring whatever that is and the containers that will hold the item. Setting up the chairs at the park. I would hand out the programs instead of hanging them on the chairs because if there's much of a breeze, they may blow off and be blowing all over the park. Aisle runner for the park so that your dress doesn't get soiled. Is the DJ going to serve as MC? If so, he needs a list of the order of the reception and approximate times for things to happen. He also needs a play list and needs to know if he's introducing the two of you at the reception. Do you have cake boxes for any leftover cake for your guests to take if they want it? Do you have an emergency kit? Do you have baskets for the restrooms? Do you have maps for how to get to the reception? Those are usually put in the program which is another reason not to hang them from the chairs. Are you putting bows on the aisle chair like pew bows? Congratulations and Good Luck!!
Reply:FOOD! - make sure enough plates and utensils and glasses are on hand. Napkins, food will be restocked upon devouring. Drinks will be replenished and cleanup.

CAKE- who is going to make sure it is there. Who is going to serve it. Are you going to have the special knife%26gt;? Make sure it is taken or you will be upset.

Music, garter, alcohol, everything needs to be in someone else's hands so that you can relax and enjoy your day because we all know you won't be able to relax and enjoy your day.
Reply:Seriously, the most over looked chore is picking up the trash and vacuuming.

Don't forget any gifts and cards, cake topper and registry book.

EDIT: Your toasting flutes! Make sure someone grabs them.

Good Luck and Happy Planning!
Reply:I'd put the groomsmen in charge of the chairs.

I'd not hang the programs on the chairs have the guest book person hnad them out--the problem with them being placed on chairs is they could blow away.

The brides maids/maid of honor, mother of the bride, mother in law, etc can decorate for the reception...

handing out the flowers everyone can just pick theirs out of the box.

I'd think the maid of honor can be responsible for your dress--if you're meaning after the ceremony youre planning on changing.

During the ceremony you hand the maid of honor yout flowers then she hands them back.

If you were not leaving immidately from the reception for the honeymoon you can load the gifts in your car, if you are then the maid of honor or other wedding party, it'd have to be someone you'd trust to not lose anything, the clean up again I guess the bridal party...

sports shoes

Alochol at wedding?

2010-05-21T23:37:00.002-07:00

My wedding is going to be September 29, 2007, we are getting married outside small wedding. Then inviations were sent out for a reception at 6pm, there we are having a casual bbq dinner, decorations are fall flowers in buckets, that are cute. We also have a band to start around 8, would it look bad if we say byob, my parents do not believe in drinking, but I drink along with my future husband. So I didn't want to serve it because of them. What should we do?

Alochol at wedding?
BYOB is bad for a wedding. you either provide the drinks or you have a dry wedding.
Reply:BYOB is really tacky for a wedding. I'd serve alcohol whether your parents drink or not.
Reply:You can't have BYOB - either provide alcohol for your guests, or have a dry wedding, one or the other.
Reply:No, it's beyond tacky to tell people to bring their own booze to a wedding reception. Either provide it, or don't have any. Ask this question on the boards at www.etiquettehell.com and see what reaction you get. They're experts at wedding etiquette.
Reply:Talk to your parents about it, and let them know that this is a hard decision for you because you really want to respect them, but you want your guests to enjoy themselves. Feel out their response. Your options are: you talk them into paying for alcohol; you pay for it yourselves; or no alcohol. A wedding can not be BYOB.
Reply:BYOB for a wedding is in bad taste. I agree with the first answer. Either take control of your wedding and serve it yourselves or have a dry wedding. What you have to remember is that it is YOUR wedding. Peace and God bless.
Reply:Awful. Do not put that on the invitation. It looks cheap and it's in the poorest taste.

Having a dry wedding is fine, but asking your guest to bring their own alcohol is beyond tacky.

No matter how many times you ask the same question, BYOB is not appropiate for a wedding. If you want to look cheap and tacky, then go ahead.
Reply:You should not ask your guests to provide their own refreshments to your wedding, even if it is casual. And, if yoru family opposes drinking, what is the difference of whether you hand it to them or they bring it themselves?
Reply:since its a bbq, I would just supply beer and tell people if they want anything else then to bring that themselves. that way it doesnt look cheap on your, but you dont need to serve all the expensive alcohols that cost you tons. just stary stocking up on beer whenver you can afford to buy a few cases and before you know it, you'll have enough for the wedding. thats what my husband and I did.
Reply:I think I just answered this question for you -

Even though it's a casual reception, you're still the host of an event (your wedding) and the people who attend are your guests. Do not ask them to provide their own refreshements. It's tacky. Treat them like guests.

If cost is an issue, a dry reception is perfectly acceptable. But this isn't a picnic - BYOB is a no-no.
Reply:It is your wedding day. If you want alochol then you should have it. It is not you parents wedding it is your special day. You do not want to tell people to bring there own alochol, that is very tacky. It is great that your parents don't drink but that doesnt mean that others don't. We were going to have a dry wedding last year and decided at the last minute to have alochol and I am so glad that we did. We had our reception in our back yard. We did soda, a keg of beer and we had a table with a bunch of bottles of alochol and mixers for people to make there own drinks and it worked out well. There were a few on my husbands side that didnt drink but they never said anything bad about it and our day was beautiful. Good luck to you and congratulations.
Reply:If you can't afford drinks at your wedding, have a dry reception. Don't put the blame on your parents. It would look tacky if you have BYOB after stating that your parents are against alcohol,duh.
Reply:I agree, it would be tacky to put something like that on the invite. For my wedding I tossed the idea of alcohol around for a while considering I don't drink and a lot of my friends from church were attending and I wasn't sure how many of them drank. I had a more formal reception, but, what I did is had champagne for the toast, but also had sparkling grape juice for those who wanted it (this worked well because my husbands 4 kids were also there) and then I just had a bottle of white and a bottle of red on each table. that way, if ppl wanted to drink they could, if they didnt, they didnt have to. It is your wedding afterall.....if you think your guests would enjoy a bit of drinking, I would provide some...you don't have to have a lot, but make some available. Its fine that your parents don't believe in drinking, many ppl dont, and until my honeymoon i'd never even had a drink myself my whole life.
Reply:i dont think it would be a good idea
Reply:It would look really bad to your Mom %26amp; Dad if everyone BYOB. If they don't believe in drinking and they are helping to pay for the reception, there should not be any alcohol there.

Can't you just do soft drinks or punch without alcohol?
Reply:You're right, byob doesn't look real good on an invite, but just keep in mind that if you want alcohol there, depsite what your parents may think, you can have it. It's your day... Either need to go w none at all or provide it for them.
Reply:Make it an open bar. Yee Haw!!!!
Reply:Let your guests know that out of respect for your family you are not going to serve alcohol , however if they would like to drink they can bring their own liquor . I am getting married next weekend and I am not serving any liquor being that half of them are coming in from out of town and have to drive back home which can range from 2hrs and up and I do not want anything happenining to them so i told them they can bring their own alcohol but whatever happens its not on me and my husband.
Reply:You need to decide what is more important to you and weigh the consequences. 2 options:

1) You honor your parent's wishes. At the reception you will not have any alcohol to drink, and you may hear some grumbling from guests.

2) You serve alcohol. You will have a few drinks at the reception, as will your guests, some of which will get rowdy. You will certainly hear it from your parents.

It's you day. Which seems like the better scenario to you?
Reply:Well, the best part of growing up and having your own life is that you get to make your own decisions. Firstly, BYOB is straight GHETTO. You don't want to do that to yourself or to your guests. Now, your parents have to accept you for who you are and what you choose to do in life. Of course, they aren't going to agree with every decision you make, but they should be there regardless. How about a compromise...since your parents are anti-liquor and you obviously want there to be some, why not limit it to champagne/wine? This way, your guests will get a "good buzz" and your parents should know that champagne and wine are key factors in any wedding. Other than that, I agree with everyone else. There's no reason not to have a dry wedding. You have to choose one way or the other, like with God, there is no inbetween.

Good Luck
Reply:Open bar for 2 hours when the music starts.
Reply:Serve alcohol or don't. Just because your parents don't believe in drinking doesn't mean you can't serve alcohol. It just means they won't be drinking any of it. If you want you can limit the alcohol by serving a champagne toast, wine, beer %26amp; champagne punch only.(no hard liquor) But whatever you do, never do BYOB. That is beyond horrible %26amp; tacky.
Reply:Having people bring their own will look a lot worse to your parents than if you just served it yourself.
Reply:I just went to a dry wedding and it was lovely. If you want to minimize the alcohol but still have some, you could serve only champagne.
Reply:never say byob! thats tacky.

just have a dry reception. alcohol should never be expected at a wedding.
Reply:I think you should just tell your parents you are having alcohol, since most of your friends occasionally like to have a cocktail, since it is so laid back BBQ you could go with perhaps a keg of beer and some wine. Have fun and good luck.

What to wear to a summer wedding?

2010-05-21T23:37:00.001-07:00

Hi

i am attending my friends wedding at the end of june and i'm not sure what to wear. its a daytime wedding in a church and the reception is in a hotel after.

i have two possibilities, first-(mine is bit diff to pic-green n black flowers on a white background-but exact same style)

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Black-white-red-50...

or this Karen Millen dusty pink butterfly dress:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?V...

any help? thanks

What to wear to a summer wedding?
well they're both good. i like the first one better, since its a summer wedding. but if the wedding is in the evening, i'd go with the 2nd dress
Reply:Since it is a summer wedding, the first dress fits that better.
Reply:green suite with green shoes and green pimp hat wi a gold walking stick wi cigar lmfao
Reply:The second one is best. The first one is horrible.
Reply:They are both lovely you get the first one and wear that for the day and the second one (which is my favourite) for the evening do, it wound look great with black heels.

Have a lovely time what ever you wear.
Reply:oh wow there both great. but i think the first is most appropiate.
Reply:I think the first one is more appropriate for summer
Reply:SECOND ONE!
Reply:the Karen millen obviously
Reply:The second one is beautiful, its simple, light, feminine and summery

the design on the first one is too busy

have a great time whichever one you choose x
Reply:the second one is sooooo beautiful

and elegant

and could be worn to both the wedding and after party

its totally stunning

i want one lol

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Reply:get the second and thats all you have to were to both but rember you might dance alot heals off
Reply:the first one

Why wouldn't you want kids at a wedding?

2010-05-21T23:37:00.000-07:00

i am 17 and i know that i might not understand stuff yet. but i couldn't imagine not having kids at my wedding. i think that they are the best part of the wedding. i have never been to a wedding were there weren't kids and i wouldn't want to. it makes it difficult on the parents, i mean they have to get a babysiter and stuff. and why wouldn't you want them there. its so fun to watch kids at weddings, plus you would feel pretty weird doing the chicken dance with a bunch of adults.

to me weddings are a celebration. and it's just like a big party. there shouldn't be worries, you should just have a good time. it's about families, i mean you are starting your own family that day. then shouldn't you include other peoples families. it just doesn't make since to me.

why would you want to not let kids come to your wedding?

i'm talking more about the reception than anything?

also what would you do with the ring bearer and the flower girl, would they have to go home after the wedding

Why wouldn't you want kids at a wedding?
I totally agree with you! Weddings should be family celebrations!
Reply:I'm extremely close to my family...sometimes functions are for adults only...why bother asking the question if you choose the person that agreed with you as best answer? Report It

Reply:1) Money. Receptions where I live are expensive, about $70 a head for adults and $15-$20 per kid. The average wedding in my area is 25K for 100 people. Personally, I can't invite every last child. I would be increase my budget by a lot.

2)Noise. Yes, not all children misbehave, but children have their moments. I worked as a waitress in college, I've seen children in restuarant settings. They get over stimulated, make a mess, etc. Just b/c your little cousin Jason acts like an angel one day, doesn't mean he will the next.

A women I worked with put it well. Children get tried, hungry and bored easily. When this happens, what do they do? They bug their parents, start fights with their siblings. They can't help it. Children are ruled by emotions. If little Jason is usually good, you can't bet he won't be get bored and fussy b/c everyone is listening to the toasts and speechs, rather then watching him spin himself in a circle on the dance floor. Children like to be the center of attention.

What happen when grandma is paying more attention to Auntie Bride then little Jason.

3) I don't believe I should invite children of friends. I love my friends; however, are their children going to remember my wedding. Probably not. When they are 17, they will remember getting dressed up in a pretty dress, but then they'll ask mom, "Who's wedding was that again" I paid for some kid not to even remember my name?

4) Alcohol is served at weddings. I don't see it fit for a child to be watching adults consuming alcohol like that.

5) Too many kids equallys craziness. Growing up I had 10 first cousins. Family events were crazy. We were all well behaved children when not together. When we got together, it was all about us. All about us having fun. We didn't see the party as something for the adults. We were kids, we were selfish, we thought it should be all about us.

We use to go to the bar and order 7 Shirley Temples each, to the point where our parents had to tell the bartender to on longer serve us kids. We would crowding the bar and the adults would be trying to get wine or what not. Our parents would have to take us out and say, "no more shirley temples, or we are going home"
Reply:I intend to welcome children at my wedding, but I can understand why others wouldn't. The simple fact is that it is an adult-themed event. There is a long, boring ceremony followed by a long party consisting of dinner, dancing and speeches with alcohol and adult themes (garter tradition) involved. Some children would enjoy that. Most young children wouldn't and their parents wouldn't be able to either. It is unreasonable to expect the hosts of a party to provide babysitting services for your children. For any other adult party, no one would expect kids, and you would leave them at home with a babysitter. People have the same rights for their own wedding.
Reply:MY opinion is that being a 30 year old mom of a 4 year old boy I don't want him to be there simply because It is one of the very very few times I get to be Jenn not MOM for a little bit I can relax have a drink and not worry about if he is OK. I LOVE him dearly but somethings parents just enjoy being able to do without having to be a parent for a couple hours.
Reply:they're loud, they cry, they run around, they drop things, they spill things, they misbehave, they "act up", LOTS OF REASONS

When you're older, you'll understand, trust me
Reply:maybe because the kids will be to rody and running around and maybe its expensive just ahve the kids thats in the wedding and the parents want to have fun
Reply:I got married two years ago and there were pleanty of kids there. None of them "ruined" the wedding by screaming or anything else. Most parents will excuse themselves and their child if they get upset or rowdy. Also it is the little mishaps at weddings that make the most memories. I thought it was fun to have all the people I love at my wedding and not just the adults.
Reply:I've been to weddings with and without kids. Weddings with kids are a lot more fun..
Reply:I wouldn't want kids at my wedding because caterers charge alot of money for childrens sometimes $25 (or more) each. Another reason I wouldn't want kids at my wedding is because I've noticed that parenting skills have deteriorated over the last few years and most children have no clue how to behave in public. They're obnoxious brats and not pleasant to be around. I don't blame the children for this, it's totally the parents' fault but I still don't want to be around these kids.
Reply:I was always bored to death as a kid going to weddings. I think they are doing this as a favor to the boys.
Reply:Some people do want "adult only" events, and that's perfectly fine and their right. They've spent a lot of money %26amp; don't want their video interrputed by some toddlers temper tantrum. When my kids were small, they could be a handful - I remember taking them out of many, many things! How many times did I missed something because I could not get a sitter! But that's what happens when you have children - it's a tradeoff you make. That does not make it okay to subject your kids to others at inappropraite settings like late evening weddings - and now that my kids are teenagers, I enjoy "adult only" events again and I am annoyed when other Mothers do not get a sitter and bring their kids to such weddings. I did it - why can't you?
Reply:Because they don't want children at their wedding... sitters are NOT that expensive....and if the parents really wanted to, they could take the cost of a sitter out of the gift of the bride and groom...(although you know someone's getting married six weeks in advance, I think the average adult could save $40 or $50 for a sitter in that time...)

A lot of weddings are extremely expensive affairs, and a lot of parents DO NOT watch their children. I had kids (that were NOT invited) come for an adult party for my mom that cost a lot of money...their mom decided to let them run around, break wine glasses, sit on people's laps and LICK the entire cake.

When a bride and groom plan an event for a year...they don't want this kind of thing to happen. Sometimes, by adding children you're adding 20-40 MORE people to your wedding costs...THAT'S A LOT OF MONEY, even if they're half priced, they're NOT eating the food....and if you're on a budget, that's a lot of money to be spending.

If someone wants an adult reception, I don't see why it's a problem to have an adult night, where you're not worrying about stepping on a bunch of children laying on the floor playing, not having to worry about keeping an eye on them instead of having a good time yourself and not wanting to spend a lot of money on food they won't eat
Reply:It is really a personal preference I think. If you choose to have a ring barer /flower girl than you may not have a problem with allowing children to attend. I am getting married in October and I have made it very clear that I do not want children to attend. Here is why...

I am having a VERY formal ceremony and reception that a child would not want to be at anyway. Weddings are adult events and to me it is like bringing a kid into a bar. No bride wants a screaming baby while in the middle of their vows. I do not think I have even been to a wedding where there were children. I think people usually know better. Also, you have to pay for them as far as catering and for non-alcoholic beverages. Having 20 kids at a wedding can be expensive. But to be honest...it is really all up to the bride and the feel that she wants. Now days weddings have no rules is seems. One day you’ll get married; and when you see the amount of time and money that goes into a wedding you’ll understand better. But, for me, I do not think a wedding is a place for children. Remember...it is a wedding not a birthday party :-)
Reply:for me its very simple - i don't mind kids at the wedding ceremony - you are right - they make the ceremony interesting - but i don't like kids being around adults when they are drinking! if a reception is alcohol free then great bring the kids, but not if there are any spirits being served. many adults act like azzes when drinking and its not something i think children should be seeing.

as for the kids in the wedding party, we rent a room and hire sitters for the kids and ensure they have lots of games, snacks, videos, etc. that way their mums and dads can run up to the room in the hotel and check on their little ones and still enjoy the reception!
Reply:The main reason we are not having children in/at our wedding because there are no children in either of our families that we are close to. We are not going to have a flower girl or ring bearer just for the sake of having one. If our siblings had children, that would be a different story.

The other reason we have an age limit is because my fiancee does have an unruly little cousin. I would not call him bratty, but parents have a hard time looking after him. It would be very unfair to invite all of the children except one.
Reply:Truthfully if my brother wasn't expecting his first and my boyfriend's siblings didn't have as many kids as they do I would have probably be on the no kids bandwagon as well. Some kids are great but from wedding ceremony to end of the reception that's easily a 5 to 7 hour stretch that I can't expect them all to make it through okay. However, with siblings alone I've hit like 10 kids some of whom will be in the wedding and some who won't plus kids of friends who I couldn't imagine not having there when Auntie/Ms. Indy is all dressed up. If I have the wedding where I'm thinking of now then the families can walk five minutes down the road to the hotel closest to the venue and not worry about driving or anything but tucking kids into bed once the partying is done. If not there then I'll include babysitters and the like because I want them and their parents to be there.
Reply:ok, i'm getting married in sept, and i am having kids and i am not having kids, a few of my cousins have kids who are absolute horrors!! they are bad bad bad kids, they don't listen to anyone, they are like under 7 and cuss and bite and yell and misbehave, but then again i have some friends who have kids who i can't imagine not having at my wedding, so for the few of those who have the kids who misbehave i am putting an insert saying an adult reception to follow and for those who i want their kids there i am not putting anything in there about kids, i know it is soooooooooooooo not the right thing to do, but the kids who are out of towners are going to be there, and if the parents of the bratty kids say anything i'm going to tell them that i only wanted so and sos kids there, and if they have a problem with it then they can leave!! i know it's not the best thing, but i'm inviting some of my aunts and uncles but not all of them, so it's the same thing, i want certain people there and not others.
Reply:Because kids can be unpredictable. People spend tons of time and money on weddings and, the last thing they want is a squirrley kid screaming through the ceremony, jamming their hands in the cake or running around unsupervised. I think it is rude for people to put "no kids" on their invitations, but generally, weddings just are not kid-friendly. (FYI, I have two kids who I adore and have taken any number of places, but never to a wedding. Weddings are boring and my two boisterous sons would go nuts! I would not want to subject the other guests and the wedding party to that.)
Reply:I am having kids at my wedding because every-one i know has kids and i think that's so un fair. the only way i would is if i felt that alcohol would interfere. but in that case i would hirer someone for that night to keep a close eye on the children in another part of the hall or where ever my wedding takes place. i Love kids and i think that if they are a part of the people you are inviting then they should come too.
Reply:the only kid we had at our wedding was my husband's one-year-old nephew, and other than him the only other kid that was invited was my maid of honor's one-year-old daughter (she didn't want to have to worry about keeping an eye on her though, so she left her with her mother-in-law). we had a few friends that had children and a lot of my cousins have children, and my husband and I aren't particularly close with any of their kids. and if we had invited all their kids, what would've increased our guest list by at least 20, and we didn't have room in our reception hall. also my mom is very anti-kids at weddings, and my parents were paying for our reception, so they made the decision for us.

so, I think for a lot of couples, the no-kids rule is to keep the guest list at a reasonable number and also because a lot of couples have never met these kids, but they are close to the parents and want to invite them. plus, a lot of kids don't care about weddings - they are forced to dress up and sit quietly - not exactly the best situation for kids, especially when adults are drinking. so why spend $20/plate on the kids meal?

we didn't have a ring bearer or flower girl, so we didn't have to worry about what to do with them. I think even most child-free brides and grooms make an exception for those kids to attend the reception.

as for making your guests find baby-sitters, that is all part of being a parent. you have to find a sitter if you want to go out for a nice meal or to a movie without kids. most of these people have sitters they regularly use. if finding a sitter for the wedding is too much of a hassle, then don't go. the bride and groom understand. it's all part of parenting.
Reply:Weddings are boring as hell for kids. And kids are more prone to act up when they're bored.

Back when I was a kid, if a child acted up, had a tantrum, or shrieked at the top of his lungs just for the hell of it, parents quickly removed his from the room. Now a days, disciplining your children appears to be "out of style" so if a kid acts up at your wedding, the parent is not likely to remove her. I've seen babies crying or toddlers shrieking at weddings with the parent not removing them from the area. I would not want to risk that at mine.

Also, the vast majority of my friends never had children and never wanted them. Many couples marrying will not have little rugrats of their own. :-)
Reply:Here's thought: At my wedding, I wanted a beautiful, professional videotape so I could relive the day whenever I wanted. I paid the company close to 7 grand for 3 cinematographers for the day. All 3 had cameras... not one of them could get a good tape with good sound of our vows because there were crying children in the audience. They refunded 75% of my money, but I am still without the video that I saved up for and wanted so very much. It was heartbreaking for me. All I have are still photos, they are beautiful, but not the same ...please keep this in mind, parents! I will never be able to get that day back. If I had known that so many people didn't know how to keep their children in line, I would have requested No Children...It still upsets me to this day and it has been 3 years...

I have a 17 month old and I would NEVER take her to a wedding. Maybe the reception for a few hours before people started drinking if the bride/groom said it was fine, but I would never take the risk of ruining someones expensive day because of my daughter. She is normally well behaved, but sometimes things happen that I can't control!
Reply:THey say if you're a performer, you shouldn't have children or animals in the act because they will steal the spotlight. MAybe the bride won't be the center of attention if you have a lot of cute kids.
Reply:I agree, kids are very welcome to my wedding. My fiance has a lot of neices and nephews, how can I not invite them. Weddings is about celebrating with family and friends no matter the age. They can be too much at times but hey sometimes that makes the party more fun.
Reply:children are unpredictable. there are those great kids that can sit still through long stuff, but then there are others who ruin movies and church services. so you either have to let everyone invite their kids and pray they are not demon children or you exclude them all and problem solved.

i did not have a flower girl or ring bearer.

a wedding is two people coming together to make a family. it is up to them who they want to invite.

**no, there is cute kid behavior, then there is demon involvement. there is a difference. a little kid stomping on a wedding dress, NOT SO CUTE! a child screaming when will this be over NO SO CUTE!

and when i have children, they will not be at a wedding unless invited and i KNOW they will behave.

Scottish wedding?

2010-05-21T23:36:00.003-07:00

Two Scots, Archie and Jock, are sitting in the pub discussing Jock's forthcoming wedding.

"Ach, it's all going magic," says Jock. "I've got everything organised already: the flowers, the church, the cars, the reception, the rings, the minister, even ma stag night...

Archie nods approvingly.

"Hell, I've even bought a kilt to be married in!" continues Jock.

"A kilt?" exclaims Archie,

"That's braw, you'll look pure smart in that! "And what's the tartan?"

Archie then enquires. "Och," says Jock, "I'd imagine she'll be in white..."

Scottish wedding?
Hilarious ha ha ha 10/10
Reply:quite a good 'un! 11/10!
Reply:LOL! I had me tartan white as well on that magic night...
Reply:WHAT??????- i dont get it
Reply:Thats so funny,lol! Have you been in hiding girl?
Reply:?
Reply:LOL I love it. Thanks.

--That Cheeky Lad.
Reply:Naughty, I liked it xx
Reply:Very funny lol
Reply:ahh that was classic xXx
Reply:some wife he is goin to have good one 9/10
Reply:thanks for the laugh
Reply:good
Reply:i srry but i don't really get it

nike casual shoes

Wedding in Georgia?

2010-05-21T23:36:00.002-07:00

I am getting married in georgia and I want to get married in the Hyatt or Mariott Hotel in Atlanta, Bukhead, Marietta or Kennesaw. I want to invite about 150 people and i want it to be a seated dinner with appetizer, meal and my wedding cake as a dessert. I want bothe ceremony and reception there with an open bar of my preferred alcohol. How much do you think that will be? Do know of any other reception halls that may accomadate me? I need a website for a affordable phtographer and videographer would help also. I also need a link for a cheap florist online. I want to have silk flowers. Thanks

Wedding in Georgia?
wow...wow thats basically all i can say....hope you have a wonderful wedding day without thinking of the about 25,000 check (or larger) sitting in ur purse (if u want to have ur guests sleep in a room it will be more)..usually the day of the wedding u need 2 even if they dont sleep, one for the men and one for women... to get ready and what not
Reply:You need to contact the places and find out how much and check the local paper for photographers
Reply:If you want an accurate estimate, you need to call the Hyatt or the Marriott and ask them. You are not going to get an accurate estimate here.

For the rest, go to theknot.com and look for the Georgia message board. I am sure the brides there will be happy to give you recommendations for vendors.

What to wear to a summer wedding?

2010-05-21T23:36:00.001-07:00

Hi

i am attending my friends wedding at the end of june and i'm not sure what to wear. its a daytime wedding in a church and the reception is in a hotel after.

i have two possibilities, first-(mine is bit diff to pic-green n black flowers on a white background-but exact same style)

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Black-white-red-50...

or this Karen Millen dusty pink butterfly dress:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?V...

any help? thanks

What to wear to a summer wedding?
the 2nd one for sure.~Morgan
Reply:uhm.well this prolly isnt the answer your looking for but i would get like a light yellow dress.

ANSWER PLEASE:: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?...
Reply:2nd one it looks light and it is GORGEOUS
Reply:DEFINATELY go with the first one.

i love it.

its so pretty and summer-y.

:D
Reply:I really like the second one. It looks like something you could wear to a wedding.And its not to flashy.The first one is nice too but it looks more like something you could wear to a beach party.

Hope it helps.

xoxo
Reply:Karen millen wins everytime for me :-)
Reply:ill go for the first one but if i were you i would still look around because theres alot more summery but gorgeous than that.. but the ist one is better the 2nd

Wedding colours??

2010-05-21T23:36:00.000-07:00

I was going with Black and Gold. White for my dress. And was having white rose bouqets with gold ribbon. And Black bridesmaid dresses with a gold sash around the waist.

BUT..... Now i am leaning towards chocolate bridesmaid dresses with Pink Gerbera Daisies. Also having the pink Gerberas in vases with some nice smooth pebbles in the bottom of the vase, surrounded by tealight candles (i think they are called votive candles) as center pieces. What do you think. I would also use Chocolate brown chair sashes? or maybe pink would be better.

Im thinking pale pink, Not the hot pink for the flowers

Which do you perfer.

The black, red, gold

Or the Chocolate and pale pink?

Its an Autumn garden wedding (about 4pm), with an indoor reception.

Also, what season can you gerbera dasies. Is Autumn the right season.

Sorry if im asking too many questions. I am just looking for peoples honest opinions. Thanks!!!

Wedding colours??
Well, I think that the gold, black, and red would be a little over the top. After all, you want to be the focus, not the decorations, right? The pink and chocolate are way more subdued, yet elegant and very pretty. I would definitely go with those colors. As far as the chair sashes, I see nothing wrong with alternating, one pink, one brown. Or maybe have one table full be pink, and the next one brown. Mix it up. Or even if you have 15 tables, doing most of them in one color, and then only a few in the pink. It would be pretty no matter how you do that I think. As far as whether or not gerbera daisies will be in season, i'm not sure. Better to call the florist you plan on using, or any florist, and ask them. They'll be able to tell you whether or not you could have them shipped from somewhere else too, and what kind of extra expense you might be looking at to get them out of season. It's always more for flowers that are out of season, since they usually have to be shipped from far away.
Reply:The black and gold will be too strong, and remember the gentlemen will be there in black too!

While the chocolate may be milder and more appropriate for the season...it will complement the autumn colours.

The dark brown however will clash with the black!

Consider a reddish-brown, reddish-brown and white do complement each other without the harshness of black and white.

It will have to be a darker brown-to red though, and consider a

two-tone with a fade from dark red to brown, with a white sash

Gold only looks good as a trimming, so stick with the brown chair sashes and maybe gold edging...

Hope I helped and good luck... you've got a long road ahead of you!
Reply:chocolate and pale pink - for sure! Gerbera dasies are spring bloomers, but available all year around. You could put a touch (just a hint) of pale pink/chocolate in your bouquet too - just to pick up the colors in the girls dresses - whatever you do, not dye any colors on the flowers - go fresh flowers too. I would go with the choc brown chair sashes - sometimes guys get a bit uncomfortable with so much pink around - dont forget its his wedding too.
Reply:i prefer the chocolate and very pale pink. i am also having an autumn wedding but i have decided on sage and burgundy as my colors.

and i think the daisies will be fine in autumn especially since they are part of the sunflower family. i have seen a lot of floral arrangements designed for fall weddings with a ton of flowers from the sunflower family.
Reply:Love Love Love the Chocolate and pale pink. My favorite colors , but that's not why. I have never thought about putting those to together for a wedding. They seems to match and go so well with what you have came up with. You could even give some chocolate favors away to your party guests. Everyone will love you theme.... the colors will go so well with a garden wedding. Congrats. And if you order threw a florist they can always get you the daises you want. Just make sure you let them know in advance. That's what the green houses are for to have the pretty flowers all year long.. I am sure you will look so pretty and the wedding will be gorgues
Reply:I vote for the chocolate and pale pink.

It's a softer look than the black, red and gold which is also nice.

I think brown and pink lends it's self better to a garden wedding.

Also daisies are a heck of a lot cheaper than roses!

Looks like they are available year round.

http://www.flowershopnetwork.com/pages/n...

What ever you choose I'm sure it will be beautiful.

Congrats!
Reply:Chocolate and pink gets my vote! Gerbera daisies are a little spring-y, but if that's what you really want, you could still use them. You might end up paying more for them out of season. Check with your florist and see if they have any suggestions. I personally really like dahlias.
Reply:i think the black and gold sounds really classy,, but i also like the idea of the chocolate brown with pink,, and i love gerberers they are my favorite flowers,, sorry i cant pick between the two,,but i hope you have a lovely day anyway.
Reply:I absolutely LOVE chocolate %26amp; pale pink! I wanted to do that for my wedding but we eloped :-)
Reply:CHOCOLATE PALE PINK
Reply:Chocolate and pale pink.

I am slightly old fashion and Black is a bad omen to me.
Reply:I think chocolate and pale pink will be nicer for the fall.
Reply:Why not the chocolate brown, red, gold. They would be very fall like colors to have.
Reply:I love Chocolate and Pink. My high scools colors are gold and black
Reply:I love the idea of black/gold/white! I think it would look really elegant and be unique. Lots of people are doing the chocolate brown/pink or chocolate brown/blue combos these days. Black might be a bit too fancy for that time/season though, so what about choc. brown/white/gold? You can have pink as the accent color. I personally love hot pink, but pale pink would be pretty too. Or you can go pale pink dresses with choc. brown as the accent color and go with hot pink flowers. Gerbera daisies are in season pretty much year-round, but are especially popular Aug-Nov in most areas. Pink chair sashes would look better than brown, but honestly, do you need chair sashes? They make the space look really pretty, but will probably be noticed only by you. If it's in your budget though, go for it! (I wish they had been in our budget!)

Centerpiece help for an early October wedding?

2010-05-21T23:35:00.003-07:00

My wedding color is red and I was thinking of working cranberries into my centerpieces. The reception is in the evening and I would like to use white lights and candles as well. I'm just afraid it will look too much like Christmas. Do you think it will?

I'm having a difficult time coming up with inexpensive (no flowers) for centerpieces. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Centerpiece help for an early October wedding?
Float cranberries and floating candles in a pretty glass bowl. Put the bowl on a mirror and surround with small votive candles

http://www.oceanspray.com/images/r_craft...

Ocean Spray has several decor ideas:

http://www.oceanspray.com/recipes/crafts...

The Knotties have put together TONS of fantastic, non floral ideas in these bios:

http://www.theknot.com/co_profileview.ht...

http://www.theknot.com/co_profileview.ht...

Other Non Floral Ideas:

You maybe have seen the simple breadbaskets on your table at a restaurant, but your centerpieces may be an overflowing collection of Italian rolls, marble rye, pumpernickel, grissini, and other mouthwatering breads. Have your caterer provide a selection of spreads such as garlic butter, spiced butters, whipped vegetable cream cheese, virgin olive oil, or tapenade. Your guests will love digging into your centerpieces

Topiaries are a wonderful and lovely idea for a garden wedding, or just a simple outdoor wedding. Placed in the center of the table with a few fall, spring, or summer leaves would make an elegant and rememberable centerpiece.

Nothing will get your guests mingling more than a display of family wedding pictures and lovely shots of the two of you. Family members there will remember those weddings and love to describe it to other guests. This is a really cool way to do the photos:

http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site...

If you have wrapped your favors, the wrapped gifts can be stacked attractively to make an eye-catching centerpiece.

For a fall wedding, you can get miniature pumpkins to place on the tables with fall confetti tossed around them.

http://interiordec.about.com/library/gra...

Candles are a great way to add a touch of class and mystery to your tables. Cluster pillars of different heights with loose flowers in a shape that echoes the shape of your table. Want to add a little more drama? Use stencils, candle painting medium and your favorite paint color to add your monogram, or words like "hope"' and "faith" to the each table.

This is another nice way to do candles, and you could use red marbles or even cranberries at the bottom of the holder:

http://www.lillianvernon.com/catalog/pro...

These are pretty too:

http://www.100candles.com/Items/Item_732...

http://www.superweddings.com/decor/hc2_c...

http://www.pbase.com/shutteredeye/image/...

http://www.pomwonderful.com/images_recip...

http://static.flickr.com/75/238503415_12...
Reply:Get a glass bowl or candle holder that can hold the candle... they are really cheap and then you can fill the bottom with red glass balls... you can even mix them up with other colors. The light against the glass would make it look nice.
Reply:How about using the cranberries, some colored leaves and things like that. That would be lovely. Or maybe get those small pumpkins and use them. That would look nice.
Reply:no, that would be gorgeous, what a wonderful idea!
Reply:Cranberries also are a beautiful fall colour - we do have them at Thanksgiving.

Also might consider those mini gourds that are available, of all shapes, styles and colours. Some of them are way cool.
Reply:Cranberries sound nice, but just have candles and maybe chinese lanterns, no white lights...that would make it Christmasy.

As far as flowers, dahlias are cheap and have a nice shade of red.
Reply:You could do mirrors, with several sizes of pillar candles, surrounded by hypercium berries instead of cranberries. You can get candles cheap (many times you can get them at the dollar store).
Reply:Christmas colours are red green and white. Also silver and yellow sometimes too. Your wedding is just fine, white and red is very nice and no it will not look like christmas.

Centrepiece: You say flowers are expensive. Well, what about some wild flowers/plants (seasonal) and making the centrepieces yourself?

Or you could buy some artificial flowers/plants and arrange them in an inexpensive way. Some are really unusual,sprayed all kinds of colours and they would look nice I think.
Reply:I've been looking at using wilow branches and hanging the tea lights from them. Perhaps arrange the branches in a hurricane vase and have the cranberries in the water??

Hope that helps, congrats!
Reply:My cousin used like the first person said a set of three different height pillar vases, tied a red rose to a bag of red glass stones to keep the rose at the bottom, then placed more glass stones to fill the bottom. Fill with water and she placed white floating candles at top, it was simple and beautiful. I was able to take a set home and redo them for different holidays or events.
Reply:Hide your lights under the table cloths. The light still shines through, it makes your table cloth sparkle and really adds some pizzazz to your reception and won't look Christmas like. Centerpieces, take advantage of the season use leaves, you could even use pinecombs or small pumpkins or even a small scarecrow. Just get clear glass bowls (around 1-3 dollars at a craft store) and put the leaves in the bowl, and place 2-3 pinecombs or 1 small pumpkin in the middle or 1 scarecrow. You could do the bowl the same, but in the middle, but a scarecrow, then 2 small pumpkins on each side. You can also place the bowl on top of a small mirror and surround it with candles. Use the leaves for your other tables too (guest book table etc...) just scatter them around.
Reply:What about pillar vases (get them cheap at a glass outlet) with the cranberries submerged in water? Put three together in the middle of the table (each should be different height) then surround with pine cones and white votive candles. Shouldn't cost you more than like $20 per table if you buy these things in bulk.
Reply:I saw the coolest picture of a fall centerpiece on the knot.com. The couple cleaned out medium sized pumpkins and placed candles inside. It would be pretty to put cranberries around the bottom of the pumpkins. Good luck!!!!

sidi way rain boots

We had a civil marriage, but our "party/reception" is coming up... what do we call this? Renewal of vows?

2010-05-21T23:35:00.002-07:00

My husband %26amp; I already married civilly. For financial reasons, we are having our big white wedding with bridesmaids %26amp; flowers, cake %26amp; out of town guests in August 2008.

What do we call this on the invites? Is this a 'second marriage'? A renewal of vows? I want to walk down the aisle, but is this inappropriate now that I'm already married? The "wedding" will look and feel like a real marriage - I will have a band, big cake, flowers, dancing... but how do I present this event to my guests?

It is okay if they know we are already married, but I do not want to take away from the "magic" of the big day.

Thanks!

We had a civil marriage, but our "party/reception" is coming up... what do we call this? Renewal of vows?
That's when I'm getting married too! There's no reason you can't have your own special day, either! If you're anything like me, the lovely wedding is something you've been planning since you were a little girl. Call it a renewal of your vows. Allow your friends and family to know the situation and make sure they know this is a very special day for you. Let them know that you wanted them to be with you on your wedding day and that this is the time to celebrate the coming together of you and your husband. There is absolutely no reason why a first-time ceremony should be more special to anyone than a public renewal of your commitment to each other. Have fun and don't worry about impressing anyone- this is your day!
Reply:You obviously are already married, so you don't get a 'do over' wedding, so this isn't your second marriage. It's also not a renewal of vows, since you haven't been married long enough.

What you should be planning is just an anniversary party, basically. Remember to say "No gifts, please".
Reply:Call it the "Celebration" of your marriage.

Below is a link to wording from just such a ceremony

http://www.churchofancientways.org/Renew...
Reply:You are already married so it would be called a Vow Renewal rather than a wedding. It's not inappropriate to walk down the aisle, how else would you get there?? Many people do this sort of thing and I think it only fair that everyone knows this is a vow renewal, it seems a shame to try to hide the fact that you are already married, a civil ceremony is just as legally binding and just as valid as a church wedding.
Reply:just say wedding or affirmation of vows.

i say do what ever you want for your wedding. wear anything you want. have whatever music and food you want!

so many people on here put in their 2 cents worth and harp on the "tradition" of weddings but last i checked not enough emphasis is put in to the "tradition" of marriage!!

just make sure you place your real energy in to the marriage part of things. the rest is up to you.

live it up and do it how you want!!!
Reply:me and my hubby did the same thing. we got married in reno because of finances and now that we can afford it we're going to do out reception in dec of 2009. we're calling it our anniversary reception.
Reply:Calling it a vow renewal would be fine. Basically, if you want to throw a party and wine and dine people to celebrate your love, that's great! There might be a few gripers but so what!
Reply:I would call it a "celebration of marriage".
Reply:You are correct, a renewal of vows is the most appropriate for your situation. A 'second marriage' indicates that there was a divorce. And a 'marriage' indicates that you are single.

Wedding bouquets?

2010-05-21T23:35:00.001-07:00

Ok so for my wedding my colors are a baby blue and pure white. Anyone have Ideas for my bouquet. My favorite flowers are carnations I dont want it to look cheap I want simple yet elegant. Any one have ideas how i can tie in my colors with my wedding? its going to be an out door ceremony with an Indoor reception.

Anyone help?

Wedding bouquets?
i know your colors are baby blue and white..which are beautiful for an outdoor wedding. i dont know if you are open to other colors for your bouquet but i am all for adding a splash of color w/ flowers so that in pictures they really STAND OUT! how about a splash of pink since baby blue and white are very light colors..like this..

http://budgetdreamweddings.com/weddingpl...

or pink with white..

http://www.floraegypt.com/images/Carnati...

or pastel pinks..

http://www.bloomeryweddings.com/blog/con...

or..if you really want to stick w/ just the blue and white...how about those colors w/ lime green?

http://bloomeryweddings.com/blog/images/...

hope this helps!
Reply:If your favourite flower is a carnation then i do not see any problem with including them in your flowers. If you think that a bouquet of carnations might look cheap then you could include them in another way or only use a few.

For example you could have a bouquet of blue hydrangeas with white carnations scattered through or you could have a bouquet of roses in any colour and use carnations in the mens buttonholes and the corsages.

You could also mix carnations with roses, orchids, lissianthus, or a lot of greenery. Have a look at some flowers you like or ask a florist for a suggestion for a flower that could easily be matched with a carnation.

Another idea would be to have a pure white bouquet tied in blue ribbon and pure white carnation corsages and buttonholes.
Reply:simple and elegant? use white carnations, lots of them. packed together in a bouquet they will look very full, very pretty and won't be very expensive. you can use blue ribbons to either hand tie your bouquet or just tuck in amongst the flowers. honestly - you don't have to go to a more expensive flower at all!

go to your local craft store, Michael's is great if you have one near you, and look at the silk carnations. you will see as you put them together how they fill out so nicely and look very pretty. i'm not suggesting you buy silk ones, but they will give you an idea how your flowers will look. if you would buy silk you would be able to make your own bouquets and it will cost you even less! [they are dead easy to make sweetie] they have everything there that you would need, and generally they are very helpful!

if you want color in your fresh carnations, don't spray them, just add a little drop of food coloring to the carnation's water and they will change colors and look very pretty.

good luck sweetie and happy wedding!
Reply:Lucky you having an inexpensive flower for your favorite! How about something like this for the center pieces.

http://www.creativeconceptsflorals.com/i...

Just use blue and white carnations instead.

This site has some gorgeous carnation bouquets.

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=h...

The bouquet on the bottom left appears to be all white carnations and is beautiful. You could wrap it in a pale blue silk ribbon.

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x164/...

Good luck and Congrats!
Reply:I agree with the white roses, and you can have them tied with baby blue ribbon.

Since carnations are your favorite I am sure your florist can use white and baby blue carnations as decorations either at the church, or you can use them in your centerpieces, but I would stick with classic roses for you bouquet!
Reply:Hydrangeas would be lovely! You can find them in a pretty baby blue too and they make a really nice full bouquet

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=h...
Reply:I really like carnations too, and had lots in my bouquet - along with other mixed flowers. We used mini carn sprays for boutonnieres, too.

I love both the carnation bridal bouquet - first row - and posy, second row, on this site - picture them in white with some baby blue; they'd be lovely.

http://www.alcapricorn.com.my/Alcapricor...

http://www.streetdirectory.com/img/flori...
Reply:For you how about a cluster of white roses with white mini carnations in the center and a collar of blue hydrangea....and for the girls....kissing balls made of carnations with a few hydrangea blooms scattered throughout.....
Reply:Carnations are my favourites too.

Sprayed carnations are lovely. They last the day without wilting and smell heavenly.

Bouquets with white and sprayed blue carnations would be beautiful. You could toss in a few white or light pink roses if you wanted some variety.
Reply:You can do carnations without them looking cheap. The more you have, the larger and more plush the bouquet, the nicer the carnations will look.
Reply:White roses are timeless, classy and elegant and they're not terribly expensive...

Take a look at this link... beautiful!

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1004/1365...

This is what my bouquet will look like. :)
Reply:You can get silk flower bouquets for a lot less without looking cheap.

http://weddings.lacompras.com/pm/Flower-...
Reply:If you want elegant I would say simple is best! Perhaps only a few blooms,instead of an elaborate bouquet.

WHite roses are pretty and go with everything. Tie them with a blue satin ribbon.
Reply:white carnations tinted blue on tips,white roses and baby breath tied with baby blue ribbon
Reply:try www.theknot.com

Wedding planning???

2010-05-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

I'm planning my wedding for next year and dont even know where to start! I would like to do flowers that are a maroon or merlot color and have had no luck finding any (on the internet) just wondering if anyone knows of any good websites with lots of info! (besides theknot.com) also, as far as the reception who does all the decorating? do i have to hire someone or what?? thank you, clueless.

Wedding planning???
Try some of these sites and many blessing to you hears a good website to start hope these help
Reply:2 things, try 1800 flowers or buy white flowers and spray paint them merlot
Reply:There's a certain variety of roses that come in a dark red color, and they're beautiful. Try asking your florist, they'll have a bunch of suggestions for you. For the reception, it depends on where you're having it. Some places will decorate for you, others want you to do it, and they'll usually let you do it the day before the wedding.
Reply:If you can afford it, hire a bridal consultant.

You start by setting your budget and deciding how much of said budget will be allotted to which services/items.

As far as flowers, find a floral designer (not the same thing as a florist) in your area and go have a sit down meeting with him or her.

Decorating is generally up to you. Some more full service places will decorate, but you are going to pay for it. Sometimes you can decorate it the night before, other times, it has to be done the day of, so generally you would ask friends and/or family members to do it. Make sure to ask when you are looking at venues, they will be able to tell you what their requirements are.

If you cannot afford a full time bridal consultant, many wedding planners are willing to work as "day of" help so that they can handle decorations and all of the last minute things that come up as well as making sure everyone is where they belong doing what they should when they should be. It's worth the money to reduce the stress.

Good luck and congrats!
Reply:LOOK UNDER WEDDING PLANNING IN YOUR AREA AND EVERYONE WILL COME OUT OF THE WOOD WORK..CHECK HOTELS OR ASK YOUR CHURCH...THEY'LL BE HAPPY TO HELP..

CONGRATS AND GOOD LUCK...

ALSO ON THE FLOWERS IT DEPENDS ON THE SEASON...YOUR GETTING MARRIED,AND IF THOSE FLOWERS ARE IN BLOOM... AT THAT TIME
Reply:Email me at eb_stuff@yahoo.com. Got a lengthy WORD document with all kinds of information in it from start to finish of a wedding.
Reply:http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f141/m... Peonies, Calla Lillies and Rio Roses
Reply:Congratulations! If you can't find any flowers that are a maroon or merlot there are other ways to have that color on other things. How about if you have chair covers with maroon or merlot color? It depends on what your theme color is. You can have silver chair covers with maroon sash (bow). Chair covers make a lot of different. That is the first thing that your guests see when they enter the room. It makes the room looks a lot nicer. Or you can rent chivari chairs and put maroon or merlot sash (bow) on the chairs.

About the reception, most vendors should be able to set-up their own products. The chair covers vendor set-up the chair covers and bows, the florist set-up the centerpieces any other flowers that you might have, etc. If you rent chivari chairs you will need to arrange them yourself. Unless you are having the reception at a hotel then the hotel staffs will arrange them for you around the tables. When you call the vendors ask them if they set-up their products. Most vendors set-up their own products but some don't.

About seating, you can have an arranged seating or you can let them sit wherever they want. I don't like arranged seating because it gives me headache. You will have to see if this person can sit with that person. If this person gets along with that person. Things like that. I wouldn't even put a "Reserved" table(s) because you will piss some people off whether you want it or not.

There will be small things that you need to assign your friends and family to do it for you. Such as greeting the guests, checking off the guestlist, You will also need to pick somebody who is trust worthy to be the point of contact on the day of the wedding. That person will be the voice of you.

Good luck!
Reply:How about silk flowers? That way, you can get the color you want.

http://www.thebridesbouquet.com/Burgundy...

At my wedding, my florist did all the decorating (at both church and reception) . . . and did a beautiful job.

Many brides decorate early and do it themselves. Still others ask friends or family members to do it. Often, someone who works at the reception venue will decorate for them. So the choice is yours . . . hire someone, do it yourself, or ask friends or family for assistance.
Reply:You need to get a bridal book that gives you info about all of the things you will need to do before the big day. This is going to be a wonderful adventure for you and LOTS of fun! You can get wedding planning book at a bridal store or department stores where they have wedding registries!!!

You need to go out and pick out your dress and place of ceremony first!

Wedding dress alterations may take a while and places of ceremony can be booked up to about a year in advance.

I wish you the best of luck. It is going to be fun! Expensive.. so hopefully you will have help there!

You really need to get started now. This year is going to fly by!!! Yeah!! Congratulations! This is a beginning of a new life for you!!

(Remember marriage is not like in the movies... It is going to be a roller coaster ride for up to the first 5 years, probably!)
Reply:Try typing wedding flowers into google, I got a list of seasonal flowers come up, I then shortlisted it to 5 flowers, we are next going to look at what colours each flower comes in to shortlist it to our colours.

Good website is hitched.co.uk.

You can either decorate yourselves or hire someone, you will sometimes find the company you buy decorations for will go in and decorate for you
Reply:The first thing you need to do is fine a wedding guide or personal planner. I am not talking about an individual, just a big note book. Keep everything in one place. One with pockets is best.

You need to confirm the big stuff first.

The church, the reception hall if needed, the minister, or Rabbi, or whatever depending on your preference.

Band, caterer, ...big stuff. Get them all on contract first so that there aren't' date problems.

Then go with the smaller stuff..

Start going to big craft stores. Like Hobby Lobby and pick out some silk flowers that resemble what you want. Have those handy when you go to a florist.

Here are some web-sites that will help you get organized. The more you get the big stuff out of the way, the funner it makes planning the rest of it.

http://www.weddingsolutions.com/index.cf...

http://www.weddingplanneronly.com/

Picture the last wedding that you went to and make categories in your notebook/planner. Sections such as Church/location, flowers, menu, guests, bridesmaids and so on..

It will call come together and remember, it is your wedding! Do it your way with no regrets!
Reply:just hire a wedding planner, you will be glad you did

Can you describe your dream wedding?

2010-05-21T23:34:00.003-07:00

Include everything from flowers, colors, location to menu, reception, honeymoon, etc.

Can you describe your dream wedding?
I want to get married at my BF's father's summer house on a lake. They have a small island about 20 feet from there beach that they have turned into a garden. I want to be on the island at sunset while everyone watches from the beach or on boats surrounding. The colors would be red, black and white with white and red roses every where. I want my twin cousins to be the ring bearers, and his cousins to be the two flower girls. Then for the reception I want it to be very laid back with buffet dinner. I would have a DJ for the first few hours then have my BF's band and other local bands play the rest of the time. Have an open invite for the party so anyone that knows us can come. (I have lived in my town my whole life and my father grew up there as well from 5 on. So there are many people that have watched me grow and would want to be there.) As for the honeymoon I am not really sure maybe to travel around to different European country's.
Reply:Well when I was a little girl my dream wedding was on a beach. I would picture it with 1 maid of honor wearing white capris and a red satin tank top and my self in an white simple sun dress, barefoot.

Reception at a place that does everything. A buffet menu. Lots of dancing and fun.

Honeymoon..anywhere private and without alot children around. Maybe Sandals couples only resort.

Been married 14 years and I got Mom's dream wedding.
Reply:Well i would have my gown picked out it is with tulle and sparkles and then i would have a cathedral veil and then i would carry a huge boquet and then my flower girl would wear a veil and a dress similar to mine i would want a big wedding the flowers would be lillies roses and pansies the colors would be mint and silver it would take place in a hall then the reception would have tons of food to steak to pork and the tables would be square and then there would be a huge dance floor and then i would have a dj and then a stage so we could be seen from across the room my honeymoon would take place in New York and we would get the honeymoon suite and do it all ours of the day oh yeah we would dance to the song a moment like this by kelly clarkson and then I would dance with my dad with the song i loved her first so yeah that is my dream wedding
Reply:I know this is going to sound a little unusual...

But I would like to elope to Vegas. I'd be wearing a slim fitting white dress, cocktail style, with lace overlay, and maybe a pillbox hat with a short veil. The groom would be wearing a red velvet vintage tux. we'd find the cheesiest, dinky-est little church. It would be after nightfall, and a hugely fat Elvis impersonator would marry us. We'd dance to "Can't help falling in love with you" by Elvis.
Reply:Ok I no it doesnt sound too fancy or anything but Im not a fancy perssom.

Ok I'd fly all my freinds and family to the Bahamas and have a wedding on the beach. I'd have wooden chairs all lined up in the sand and everyone will be wearing like earthy colours like khakis and whites and maybe light greens and greys........ The bridesmades would be wearing kneelength baby blue sundresses. I want to be wearing a short white wedding dress with a long trail at the bottom of it. Everyone will throw pink and blue petals at us a we walk down the isle in a fun way not a rude one. My colors will be baby blues pinks and whites

company

Wedding theme?

2010-05-21T23:34:00.002-07:00

Is a wedding "theme" really necessary? What are some unique themes for a wedding without being cheesy and how do you incorporate this into the ceremony/reception?

I am getting married at the end of August 2008, so it's kind of the summer - fall transition. I know I want red or a shade of red for the bridemaids dresses, and complimentary colors for flowers/decorations etc.

Wedding theme?
You don't need an elaborate theme, just pick things you like and just make sure they all go together. Your theme can be very simple by just having colours. Pick 2 colours that go together and just work the colours into the things you choose. The key is consistency. Just don't choose pink bridesmaids dresses then choose blue invitations if your colours are purple and white or something. You can incorporate your colours into lots of things such as BM dresses, men's suits (like their ties), invitations, favours, decorations, the list is endless.
Reply:decor from the shore

or just star fishes

maybe a luau theme

and check out this site for unique pieces to have for your wedding

www.shellofagoodtime.com

They are so beautiful!
Reply:well.. you can take a look at these two sites where i coleected photos from flickr.. hope it'll help you somehow.. for wedding themes colour.. i think you can check out color schemes websites such as kuler..
Reply:Your theme in general can just be the colors. You don't have to choose say a fall theme, but yet just choose that the colors red, browns, etc. be throughout the wedding. That is a theme within itself.
Reply:You could just do a red theme. Have your bridemaids where apple red dresses. Give candy %26amp; caramel apples as favors. Have red candles %26amp; flowers as center pieces. You can have red accents on your wedding cake.

Red is a great wedding color. Very classy %26amp; it photographs well.

Red %26amp; Ivory look good in floral arrangments. They contarst nice against each other.
Reply:A theme is not neccessary but may be helpful. I love fall weddings because you can do so much with them. A good theme is the changing colors of leaves. You can somehow tie that into how your lives are gonna change together. It will also tie into the red color you want to use.
Reply:No. A theme is certainly not necessary. To be honest, I have NEVER been to a wedding with a "theme." I'm glad too!! I believe that the theme of any wedding is, simply, "the wedding!" That is a theme in itself.

It's nice to coordinate things using "colors", but keep it to that. You DO NOT need a theme thrown in there too!

Good luck!
Reply:Themes are for parties -- not weddings. The "theme" of a wedding should be the fact that two people are coming together in a union of love.

True, the colors of the wedding can be considered the theme. For example, darker colors are usually for Winter weddings and pastels are usually for Spring weddings. However, just because one is getting married around the time of Mardi Gras doesn't mean the colors should be purple, green, and gold, the wedding party should wear gaudy feathered masks, and people should toss beads about during the reception. Just because a wedding is taking place during thh 4th of July weekend doesn't mean the stars and stripes should be everywhere.

This is a sacred ceremony, not a high school prom. =D
Reply:A "theme" is helpful in planning but not a must. It can be really broad for instance shades of red or just "fall" or it can be really specific such as "famous couples".

When doing a theme it's important not to do it on overkill. Small touches will get your point across. If your theme were to be your monogram have it on the stationary, the cake, and maybe choose dishes that start with letters to spell your name. But don't plaster you monogram on everything in sight.

For that time of year I like "Perfect Pair" as the theme since the harvest is in season. For the menu you would choose food that are a duo like surf and turf. Maybe brocolli and cheese soup. Put pairs on your stationary and include some fresh pears in the flowers. Subtle touches of green will make your red pop and using something like a toffee or a chocolate brown as you nuetral will give that hint of fall.
Reply:you don't have to have a theme. if you want to add hints of red, do it with fall flowers or leaves tucked into the centerpieces, a little bit goes a long way.
Reply:Go to Davids Bridal.com and click onto dress your wedding party. You can pick out a wedding dress bridesmaids' dresses, tuxedos, flowers and everything else that you might need. It is really fun to do and you can get an idea of what your bridal party might look like for your wedding. They also have lots of different colors to choose from. You will have fun doing it and it don't cost a thing.
Reply:You could do a patriotic wedding in honor of Labor Day. Red and white with blue accents. You don't have to put flags everywhere. Just stick with the color palette and you'll be fine.

5 Months till the wedding.........Am I on the right track?

2010-05-21T23:34:00.001-07:00

I got engaged on 12.20.07 and the wedding date is 6.15.08

Thisis what is done:

-food/hall for reception

-park for cememony

-rented the chairs

-cake baker

-flower maker

-my dress!

-flower girl dress

-photographer (NO video)

-bridal party, have told them.

-party favors picked out

Should be getting this week done:

-DJ

-person to marry

-ordering invites

bridesmaid dresses by middle of feb picked out.

I'm going to start my dress alterations end of feb or so because I have to have it 2 size smaller so it may take longer.

I'm doing personlized M%26amp;M's as favors so not sure when they need to be done probaly by end of march?

Tux fitting in april?

will be shopping for items such as: candles, flowers for decration, pen, guestbook, ect soon.

Making the garter, flower girl basket and ring pillow.

Am I on the right track?

Please tell me what I need to do yet! thanks!

5 Months till the wedding.........Am I on the right track?
Wow. You appear to be the most organized bride I've ever seen. You're definitely doing great.

You'll want to take your dress in for alterations ASAP, as they generally take 6 months. The same applies for bridesmaids dresses.

Other than that, great job! And congrats! :o)
Reply:sounds good.
Reply:You're doing good, I can't think of anything that stands out. I laughed when I read your question, because you list that this week you need a "person to marry"- I know you mean officiant, but the way you worded it makes it sound like you are groom shopping! : )

Two things I will recommend, from experience:

1- Rethink the video. We got one done but we didn't spend a lot on it, and I am so glad we got it. I love watching it. I am glad I decided to get it.

2- Imagine your day from beginning to end, everything that you will have to do and how you want things to flow. Spend some time walking through all of the details in your mind- that will help you remember little details that might have slipped your mind.

3- The morning of the wedding, remember to relax and let go. If it hasn't been done by then, it won't be. Remind yourself that you have hired professionals to worry about the details, and then have a blast!

Good luck.
Reply:Sounds like you are making great progress. I am getting married in March 08 and you have done more than I have! If you keep moving at the pace you are you should have everything taken care of - and then you will have some time to sit back and relax!

A different kind of wedding - can you help?

2010-05-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

Hi there. We're starting to plan our wedding and we're realizing that we want something quite different from the typical weddings you see. Below is a short list of what we envision.

- About 150 people

- No wedding party (we don't like the idea of other people having to fork out the $ for clothes, etc.) but we will have my niece as flower girl.

- Typical white wedding dress for me

- Photos taken before ceremony

- Ceremony in evening immediately followed by reception, including DJ and dancing.

- No tables at reception - just various lounging areas (couches, etc.), a playstructure or bouncy-castle for the kids, and lots and lots of hors d'oeuvres, drinks and desserts.

- No speeches, except maybe one by us to thank the guests.

Has anyone ever heard of a wedding like this? Is anything really wrong about it? I am trying to find resources on the internet to help me out but I'm not finding much. Please suggest anything you can.

A different kind of wedding - can you help?
Check out Offbeat Bride - http://offbeatbride.com/

for ideas - I think you can have anything you want for your wedding - they have groups you can join and people that will help you there. congrats %26amp; good luck!
Reply:I agree weddings are sooo expensive! We wanted to have a wedding that was tasteful but not too expensive. In the end we hired a big house privately rather than a wedding venue and catered ourselves. It was much more informal and being during the summer we had beautiful grounds. One thing I wouldn't skimp on personally is a wedding videographer - we hired a company called Bloomsbury Films whose created a really personal film with messages from all our guests! Last time I looked they still had a sample of our wedding video on their website www.bloomsburyweddings.com/civil.html.
Reply:No theres nothing wrong with it. It's simple but memorable. Personally more ppl should have wedding's like this. Try to find a place that rents out big rooms. Not like a reception place. It's cheaper and there wont be the tables and stuff. Then just rent a few couches or plush chairs for the room and get some pretty decorations.

Otherwise, you can do it like at a park. That way theres the play areas for the kids and its simple and beautiful. Good luck and congrats
Reply:I think your ideas sound great. Weddings should be free-form. You can still have a wedding party, tho, without making them wear matching outfits. For my first wedding, my sisters picked the fabric %26amp; made themselves dresses using patterns of their choice (so they could each choose something that they knew flattered their widely differing body types, but the fabric would be the same), and for my second wedding, the bridesmaids (and I) wore flowered dresses - again, each of their own choosing, but this time, not even matching material (it was a springtime/garden wedding). They each sent me a photo or a fabric swatch ahead of time and my friend who was doing the flowers matched their bouquets to their outfits. It was fun and lovely and included them in the ceremony.
Reply:Sound great.

Some suggestions though; make sure there is enough seating for everyone and let the guests know it will be a cocktail reception (rather than full meal).

Oh, and if people are lounging why not put in a few low tables with cushions around them eg:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stiffydagol...

and maybe some tents for shade or rain if it is outdoors:

http://rajtents.com/Pergola.htm
Reply:I don't think there's anything wrong with what you've got there. Sounds really nice and laid back. Just remember, your wedding should be what you and your fiance want! Best wishes!
Reply:What you're picturing isn't too uncommon. A few things to keep in mind, though...

You should have at least one attendant each, because you need witnesses. Since you'll only have the one gal, she can pick whatever she wants to wear.

You can't always have an evening ceremony. Many churches don't do weddings at night, so you might have to hire a justice of the peace to perform the ceremony.

If your reception goes longer than 2 hours, you need real food. Not just hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and dessert. If you're providing real food, then you need some tables where people can eat.
Reply:sounds like a good plan to me. casual, yet classy. stick with your ideas, they will work.
Reply:Perfect! My website has sample ceremonies, feel free to use what ever you like. http://www.churchofancientways.org

Tents are great to both provide shade and protect in case of rain.

The bouncy people will have connections to other rentals. Some caterers come with staff, tables, chairs, linen, %26amp; cutlery. Some don't so remember to ask.

You may also want to consider the bathroom situation. Do you have sewers or a cesspool? Porta-san's are nice these days and when it comes to a mess like that it's always better safe than sorry!
Reply:Sounds like the perfect wedding. I may want to steal your idea one day! = )
Reply:That actually sounds *exactly* like my wedding LOL (we will have tables though for eating).

We're in the 21st century now girl, and that whole saying of "it's your day" actually is true.

Sounds like a good plan to me (but I'm biased, since I'm doing the same thing- nixing the speeches, bridal party, etc).

Congrats!
Reply:to be honest sound quiet like mine exept no bouncy castle they didnt need it they werent bored,we had a band and a dj just so there woud be music throuth the bands breaks

it sound very like a scotish wedding!
Reply:Hi and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Your wedding sounds GREAT. And, NO, there is certainly nothing wrong with it. You can do as you please. It sounds really fun! I love all the non-typical things you are having, especially the lounging areas....that is really different.

You have good ideas and great taste!
Reply:sweetie it sounds lovely. first of all congrats on the wedding! secondly congrats on not being one of the million bride-zillas that are out there. its refreshing to hear of someone being concerned about their guests and their attendants! and someone wanting children at their wedding!

there is nothing wrong with your plans! they sound great! whether your reception is an hour or five hours the idea of hor d'oeuvres, desserts and drinks is perfect! it fits right into your entire scenario! please don't get talked into a full meal thing! i imagine this is a wedding that folks will be bragging about and copying for some time to come! you are going to have a beautiful wedding day and i wish you a lifetime of happiness!
Reply:I had a somewhat similar wedding, I got married late in the evening, strategically after the dinner hour, I had some tables but not a lot, I did get some of those tall cocktail tables that you can stand at and put your drink and purse on, and we wanted to do the couchs but couldn't find a reasonable place to rent them. We had a full hosted bar and a great DJ so everyone danced all night, we got some hors d'oeuvres but not too many because we were not trying to feed everyone a meal. Reception started at 8pm, the bouncy house is a good idea if a lot of kids are going to go to the wedding but most people leave their kids at home when an event is that late at night. If you do it any earlier you will have to serve dinner. We didn't plan on any speeches but half way through the evening a lot of friends and family took over the mike because they had had a little too much to drink. We only had our first dance which half way through I had the bridal party start dancing with us. I skipped all the other dances because they are boring! We cut the cake and did a shot for the toast. We skipped all the boring formal stuff because it did not fit our personalities and vision of our wedding. It was such a fun wedding people still tell us how much fn it was almost 4 years later!

Do what you guys want its your day!
Reply:Congratulations! If your love is more than ordinary your wedding should be too. Use your imagination and make your wedding celebrate who you and your fiance are. Have fun!
Reply:That's simaler to what I am doing what im finding is that you have to plan it your self and rent a hall that will allow the to bring in your own food
Reply:I think your wedding is going to be a blast. There is nothing wrong with your ideas and your wants for a wedding. It should like a great and fun idea for your special day. Call local bouncy-bouncy places in your area and for them say its a childs birthday instead of a wedding because they will most likely say that they don't do weddings. Look at local venues and tell them your ideas. They should be able to accomadate your needs if not tell them that you will go to a local party store or rental company to get the coachs and whatever else you need as long as they will rent the pass to you for the day. If you are doing the rental company be there when they bring in the coaches so you can tell them where you want them to be placed. (Make sure you have the rental company do the work its worth the money and you don't have the added headache to your special occasion.
Reply:That sounds like a wonderful, relaxing wedding. It might be hard to find a venue with couches instead of tables AND that will let you have a bouncey-castle or a play area, but they're out there. You just have to find one.
Reply:I think it sounds fantastic. There's a time in a person's life when they have to go to a whole bunch of weddings and it gets really tiresome, so I'm glad that you're trying to break the mold!

It sounds like you have the guests' comfort in mind, so just make sure that the refreshments and lounge areas are sufficient. Some people might be really hungry by the time of the ceremony, so keep that in mind. Also, it's 150 people, so maybe you should assign areas anyway, to reduce chaos!

Since you're taking the photos beforehand, why not have all the guests come by that time too and do a shoot with everyone? Also, you can make it less traditional by hiring a fashion photographer and doing fun, action shots instead of the usual static ones at weddings.

And don't skimp on the cake. Everyone loves the cake.
Reply:I don't think there's anything wrong with your idea for your wedding. In fact, I think it's great that you are planning something for the kids to do. You might also want to consider having some kid friendly hors d'oeuvres or hot dogs and sandwiches for them plus milk, juice, water, soda as well. As far as where to have it, I would check out reception sites, explain what you want to do and see if they can do it. Your best bet would probably be some place unusual instead of the usual reception hall. Some ideas would be a flower conservatory, an aquarium, an art museum, an historic home, or even a theater.

Wedding guest etiquette?

2010-05-21T23:33:00.002-07:00

is it rude to take your own photos at a wedding? not meaning the ceremony of course...but at other times such as the reception?...My daughter is going to be the flower girl and I would like some pictures of my own. Thanks

Wedding guest etiquette?
No that's not rude at all! The only thing that is rude is when AFTER the ceremony is over and the wedding party stays behind to take photos with the professional photographer. It's very rude when other people come in while he/she is doing this and their flashes are going off messing up the wedding photography. Any other time is fine.
Reply:Of course you can - at both the ceremony and reception.
Reply:That is not rude at all. In fact, (since your daughter is in the wedding party, I'm assuming you know the bride and groom pretty well), the newlyweds would probably love to have a copy of your prints, too!
Reply:of course you should take some of your own photos as long as u don't get in the way of the hired photographer or become over bearing. be sure to send some to the bride and groom!
Reply:It's not rude. Just stay out of the professionals way. And, of course, offer copies to the bride and groom.
Reply:It isn't rude, but don't set the camera on flash if its during the reception or during mass (mass if its a Catholic wedding). Enjoy the wedding. How I love weddings...
Reply:I think it is ok to take your own pictures, but I think it would be nice if you shared a set of the prints with the bride and groom once you get them developed. (Or a cd if going digital) Take pictures of other stuff besides your daughter and then the bride and groom can have more pictures. I know at my wedding everyone will have there camera's out and I will be happy to see everyones pictures when it is all over. Good luck.
Reply:I would have no issues with that at all, and i doubt any bride would, if your daughter is the flower girl then surely the bride would EXPECT you to take pictures of your little darling.
Reply:It is not rude as long as you do not interfere with the professional hired. Many people take a camera, it is rude to do so when the professional sets up a shot.
Reply:You could take your own photos and offer to share with the bride and groom some of the shots they don't have for their album.
Reply:As long as you don't get in the hired photographer's line of vision, I don't see anything bad about it.
Reply:As long as it doesn't interfere with the photographer or other activities it is fine. You could even send a copy of some of the pics to the bride and groom later. I enjoyed receiving pics friends took as they were a different style than the photographer's and usually much more casual (which I happen to prefer). I can only think of a few weddings I have ever been to where at least some guests didn't take photos too.
Reply:At my wedding I didn't care who took pictures. Actually I liked the fact that everyone took pictures. Some of my family actually got better shots than the photographers did. I am collecting copies of everyone's pictures so that when I actually put my wedding album together, I have the best of everyone's pictures to put into the album!
Reply:Nope not rude at all. The bride and groom wont mind definately.
Reply:It's not generally considered rude, but I'd call the bride or groom to check that they won't mind. If it's a formal event, they might ask that you not use a flash, which will make getting a good shot difficult, but most people don't have a problem with it.

Oh, and make sure that you don't get in the way of their professional photographer. If he sets them up for a photo, just say, "can you guys stay like that just another second?" once he's done.
Reply:I got married last month, and I am so glad that my friend, two aunts, and my stepmother took pictures during the ceremony-no flash pictures of course. All of them sent us the disk, and we made copies of the pictures, and it saved us about $500 because we liked their pictures better than the professional´s photos!

It is not rude to take your own pictures, and do the bride and groom a favor and give them the disk so they can make copies on their own. Professional photography is great, but a lot of our pictures captured things no pro could have done-at the ceremony or afterwards!

Oh, by the way, to not be rude, do not STAND up at the ceremony until the bride walks up the aisle-unfortunately, since relatives were taking pictures, they stood up when my bridesmaids walked down the aisle, and other guests stood also-not just for the bride which is what traditionally is supposed to happen! SIT close to the aisle to take pictures of your girl-these pictures will be great!
Reply:you can take pictures at any time not during the cremony. you may want to just let the photogrpaher do his/her job during the toasts so that you can pay attention, and try to stay out of the way. ie, don't be in the bride's face or photographer's line of sight when they're trying to cut the cake. otherwise, feel free to be a shutter bug and rememebr to share the photos with the bride and groom and others who were there!
Reply:I would check with the bride, who will likely be fine with it as long as you are not distracting or inthe way. However, the bride may want to ask the photographer. The photographer may have a problem with someone taking pictures when they were hired exclusively. There will no doubt be at least a couple of cute shots of the flower girl that you can purchase, or the bride make generously buy them for you.
Reply:I don't think it is rude to take your own photos as long as the flash doesn't distract from the other activities

mens leather boots

I did NOT miss the flowers!!!?

2010-05-21T23:33:00.001-07:00

To splurge or not to splurge on flowers, that's the question!

Last wedding that I attended, there were few flowers...and quite honestly, I didn't care!

They had the bouquet for the bride, bouquets for the 8 BM, I honestly don't what type of flowers were they, that show you brides-to-be that most people don't pay attention if they hybrid roses, chrisantetums, lilies or orquids...who cares!!! All I remember is that they were white and purple.

In the church, they had pew decoration only on the family's pews and at the last pew at the entrance. They had 2 medium size arrangements at the altar.

At the reception site, the BM placed their bouquets at the guest book table and the gift table... it looked lovely and it's a good idea to use the flowers again and maximize your investment.

The centerpieces were a large wide open round vase, inside it was a smaler vase. The smaller vase had sand and a white pillar candle. The larger vase had water and fresh long stem purple flowers

I did NOT miss the flowers!!!?
Since getting engaged and planning my own wedding, I've been to 2, and dont alot of thinking about the other wedding I attended in the past. Knowing the kind of minute detail brides stress themselves out over (myself included) that never get noticed by anyone, I've tried to keep that in mind. I can't say I recall much about anyone's wedding invitations, their flowers, dresses, or much of anything else. What I remember is the overall feeling I had at the time--did I have a good time, how did the couple seem, that sort of stuff....the rest is all fluff, and while fluff is nice, I have to tell myself it isn't worth losing my mind over any of it...
Reply:Simple can be elegant absolutely...flowers should be what the bride likes, wants and enjoys...if you are bride who LOVES!!!! lots of exotic flowers and want to shower yourself in them all around you on your wedding day that is your choice...if you are not a flower person and want to keep them to a minimum or none at all, that is okay too...I have designed and planned weddings that didn't have any flowers at all (no exaggeration, NOT ONE) and they were very classy and elegant and beautiful...it is all personal taste
Reply:Don't do flowers. Waste of money. I would do candles at the reception. The typical bouquets for the bridal party and the flowers for the groomsmen.

I would not decorate the church. Churches are Holy places to begin with. Why do you need bows, tulle and flowers on the pews. If you want to add something nice. A simple flower arrangement for the alter is fine.

The only way I'm adding flowers to my tables at my reception is if they are included in the price of the package. A few places I've looked at, do this. If they aren't included, then I'm doing my own DIY candle centerpieces.

I think too many flowers is a little tacky and overwhelming anyway.
Reply:I'm having 1 protea for each bridesmaid and on the tables I have some mederteranean wicker vases with GRAPES

red and green.

They look awesome.

imagine spending 6k on flowers.

WTF
Reply:Not necessarily a boatload of money, but I think some are nice.

I wanted my bouquet to reflect the colours for our wedding - pink, yellow, lilac, and light teal, so I had a beautiful handtied European bouquet of an assortment of flowers; my four attendants had smaller versions. I like when, at the reception, the bridesmaids put their bouquets in vases at the head table - it looks lovely.

We had two or three arrangements of flowers which we used at the church, and were later used at the reception.

The guest tables' centerpieces we had were small silk ones which a co-worker of mine had made for one of my showers.

I think in all we spent just under 800 for flowers - plenty, I would think.
Reply:I agree, flowers is a waste of money... Most people really don't care! I know, I always just look forward to the ceremony, then the food, dancing and drinking.
Reply:It all depends on location. You attended a wedding by the sea, so it would look silly to have flowers on every table. I'm getting married in a loft, so simple flowers on every table will blow people away and achieve the look we're going for. I know - I've been to many parties at our location and it just works. I'm not talking about huge bouquets, but single stems illuminated by candle light.

And I know people won't remember them, just like they won't remember what kind of silverware they used, the wedding colors, the favors, etc. The only thing most people remember is the music and food. Granted, I remember a bit more because I'm planning my wedding, but I'm an exception.

We do the rest because WE like it. We have a vision of what we want our wedding to look like and we spend the money to make sure it comes true. Weddings are not about saving money. If it was we wouldn't have weddings at all - they're a huge waste of money in the larger scheme of things.
Reply:It is all up to the bride and what she wants. I did not have centerpieces at all I did not want flowers everywhere some people are allergic and then they fight over who gets to take them home. I had my bouquet and my MOH and put them on the table with the cake. Not to mention they cost a small fortune.
Reply:Do what you like. My wedding flowers were simple like that. I'd rather spend the money on the dress or reception food than on flowers. When its all said and done, spend money on the parts you'll remember!
Reply:Good to know- we held back on the flower too... I surge on getting us (the wedding party) nice bouquets- all roses but I am just having lanterns as centerpieces. I was just at a wedding where they had these gorgeous center pieces and it just so sad to think hundreds of dollars wasted on flower that are going to die. My cater gives us free use of her lanterns so-that's what we are doing!!

Missed you BLUNT- please check my old question about the invite misprint and let me know what you think!! You can answer on my other open question- were I am getting abused :)
Reply:My mom bought my flowers for my wedding, and they cost a grand total of $50. But um, as for you last additional info, bowtie pasta, a salad, and rolls happens to be one of my absolute favortie meals. I would have been perfectly happy to be at that reception!
Reply:yeah.. real flowers.. pretty and all.. but a waste of money in my eyes.. like.. dont get me wrong.. im an artist.. i LOVE nature and natural things.. but for my wedding.. im using fake flowers.. ALL the flowers i needed 5 bouquets.. 4 corsages.. my bouquet.. all the mens pins.. all came out to $120.. and also.. fake flowers.. TONS of more creativity.. im having two HUGE roses in my bouquet.. and i am using swirls of almost twig like pieces with grassy pieces behind it and bits of white flowers that i dont even know what they are but they look SO pretty!! and for the centerpieces we are using what the place provides (which is beauitiful) hurricane glasses and tea lights on a mirror square.. avoiding the flowers ALL together there!! lol

honestly.. all that i remembered about my brothers wedding was how much my sister in law paid for her flowers.. $3200!!!! i remember thinking it was crazy and that i would do anything to avoid that cost at my wedding and put my money into something more important to me.. like the photographer!!
Reply:I don't think you have to spend a lot of money and can have quality flowers. I like the wedding you saw above am going to have my maids put there bouquet of flowers in vases at there table. I am having my bouquet as my center piece and vase with candles on the rest of the tables, I am also doing silk flowers so I don't have to have them dried after wards, It is so expensive and ladies do you know what they use to do it ( they use the same powder as kitty litter)(yuck)

So I say dont ( real flowers die in the elements ) if you use them. There has to be something else you like to spen hundred of dollar on (your bridal party, favors, parents gifts, pictures) Best wishes and good luck Ihope I have helped!!
Reply:you don't have to splurge on flowers to get a nice effect. even simple things like scattered rose petals, or a single stem in a bud vase really brighten up the tables.

i personally HATE huge gaudy flower arrangements with 934 different kinds of flowers...

a wedding entirely without any flowers is sad. i went to a wedding where everything was silk, and i truly missed the flowers.

recycling the bouquets is a great idea...they can be used to decorate the head table even...
Reply:Hi:

Well, I wouldn't splurge, but you can still get a nice effect without splurging. Personally, I LOVE flowers but only real ones and not big gaudy arrangements, simple ones. I absolutely hate the huge silk flower ones. People think they are savings tons on silks....they are not. You can order wholesale flowers from many places online. Also from Costco and from Walmart. I agree with the other poster who said simple is more elegant. I couldn't agree more. A single rose in a bud vase with a few greens looks more elegant that a big huge bouquet of silks! One poster said she will only do candles....but what if your reception is mid-afternoon outside? You need to take into consideration the time of day and the venue. And, yes, I agree with "double duty" on the flowers. At my son's wedding the bridesmaids put their bouquets in vases at the head table - no more decorations needed! Just my two cents.
Reply:I agree. As long as it still looks elegant, there is no need to go overboard. I'm having a limited selection of flowers in simple arrangements. Hydrangeas, rannunculas (less expensive than peonies, but you get the same effect), stephanotis (but only in my bouquet), ivy, thistle, and cream roses. My theme is going to be a garden theme so I can't forego the flowers alltogether, but I'm certainly not going to spend a fortune on them! For only one day and then they die? I don't think so. The trick to decorating well is to use your existing surroundings to your advantage. Our reception will be in an event center in a park. Therefore, no need to decorate the outside, there will already be landscaping. The church has beautiful ceiling to floor windows that allow you to look right out into the trees, again no need to over decorate there. I'm still trying to come up with a few unique ways to tie in my theme without overdoing the flowers though, so I'll keep you updated.
Reply:Can I offer a suggestion? My wedding was quite elaborate and I didn't want to do the run of the mill flower centerpieces that everyone has. But I still did want the look of grandeur :) So instead I rented from a rental company large 6 candle candelabras for each table. They also decorated them to match my decor (which was wine and grapes) and had clusters of grapes hanging down off of them. They were spectacular! I still get compliments and this was a few years ago.

It was relatively cheap too, I think I spent $15/centerpiece +the decorating. It was probably the cheapest, yet one of the most memorable things at my wedding.

So no, you don't need flowers, you can make a statement with a lot of things.

Look into rental companies, you will be very surprised at what you can get for the money as compared to a floral centerpiece.
Reply:Most people don't notice the flowers or lack thereof. It's generally accepted to be one of the biggest money-wasters.

For me, I'm going to use non-floral centerpieces. We're going to use white paper lanterns with colored bulbs inside as the centerpiece for each table. Then I'm going to put a few mini-Chinese take-out boxes full of candies on each table. Maybe I'll scatter a few rose petals. I think it will be much more interesting and memorable than just a vase of flowers.
Reply:Hee! You're preaching to the choir here, babe!

My total flower bill (including accessories) was $35.

Okay, it was fourteen years ago, and the price would be a bit higher today, but still.

What did I get? Six bouquets, six boutonnieres, one corsage, and a rose to lay on each table at the reception.

I was getting married in a redwood grove, so lots of flowers would have been a case of brining coals to Newcastle. No point.

My MOH and I went the day before the wedding to the local open-to-the-public florist's supply and picked some of everything that was long-stemmed, cheap, and pretty. The only flowers I had that I can identify were the red roses. I picked those because that's the flower my husband always gives me. Roses are quite literally the only flower he can identify, and he knows I love red.

We got some florist's tape, ribbon, and corsage pins, and made up everything at the rehearsal dinner that night.

The sheaf bouquets were easy as pie to make (lay flowers in attractive order, tie ribbon, put in bucket of water so flowers don't die) and looked perfect. One handy friend took care of the fiddly bits.

if flowers aren't a priority to you, I highly recommend just finding something pretty and inexpensive the day before and tying them very simply. Nosegays and sheafs are the easiest.

For decorations, it's amazing how far a couple handsful of rose petals or a few scattered blooms around some other decorative item go.
Reply:I agree-too many flowers are tacky!

For our wedding, I used silk flowers-English ivory roses that I had in my home for at least 10 years, and they were perfect. Each bridemaid carried one, and I carried a bouquet of 5-one for family members that had passed away.
Reply:THANK YOU! This is what I tried to tell one of my friends about her wedding.

Glad someone sees things my way!

:)
Reply:Did you just use the word splurge?
Reply:How can anyone say flowers are a waste of money?! I've been to two weddings recently where they both used fake flowers and I was truly disappointed. Flowers are beautiful and really add to a wedding.

I am all for using them moderately but they are not a waste!
Reply:Wait? Was that a question or just an observation?