Dreams to Reality Shops

Going Green with Be Seeded Cards!

2009-03-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

The birds are chirping, the skyies are clearing, and it looks like spring is in the air!

Event Blossom has introduced their Please Be Seeded™ line of eco-friendly plantable place cards!

The Please Be Seeded™ Plantable Seed Place Cards are not only stylish, but they are also environmentally friendly: The tent style place cards are made from recycled paper, and the detachable seed paper shapes grow into wildflowers. Going "green" has never been so unique!

They are all in stock and ready for shipping now at Dreams to Reality Wedding Shop or visit your favorite Event Blossom authorized dealer!

2009 New Favors We Love

2009-02-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

Now that we're getting settled into 2009 I thought I would put together some info on my favorite new favors I've come across from various vendors. There's some really great stuff being added!

My first and favorite would have to be the Art Deco Glass Collection from Cassiani Collection.

Inspired by the artisans of Murano Italy, this Murano-like collection has bottle stoppers, bottle openers and key chains.

Kate Aspen has gone super unique again! I flipped when I saw these Grill Place Card Holders - how cute are they!!

A few other unique items worth mention -

the Bourbon Street Streetlight Place Card Holders

and the Park Place Vintage Park Bench Place Card Holders.

Or how about the first ever First Aid wedding favor? I always look forward to what Kate Aspen will come out with next.

Just added from Weddingstar are these fabulous drink tickets in 3 popular themes!

Wedding Ship has added these fabulous rhinestone butterflies, they come in sets of 24 and the uses are endless. Also from Wedding Ship, pretty personalized silk fans in your choice of 3 colors.

See your favorite favors dealer for these great new items or we carry them all and more at Dreams to Reality Wedding Shop - your one stop Wedding Superstore!

Contest Alert - Groom of the year!

2009-02-13T20:40:00.000-08:00

Brides.com is looking for the 1st ever Groom of the Year! If you think your man is worthy (which you all should at this stage!) enter him for a chance to win his/her wedding bands, tuxedo rentals, a flatscreen tv, a home furniture package or a honeymoon!

Best of luck to you all!

CONTEST ALERT - FAVORS

2009-02-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

Kate Aspen is giving away a Wedding Full of Favors! 150 fabulous Kate Aspen favors (your choice) for your guests–and all you have to do is enter for a chance to win! Enter by March 31, 2009.
Winner will be selected on April 6, 2009.

CLICK ON THE CONTEST ALERT TITLE TO ENTER

A Few Words about Wedding Jewelry

2009-02-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

I have to say one of the most enjoyable parts of planning my own wedding was shopping for my jewelry. According to a recent article I read on 2009 Jewelry Trends the jewelry of today is LARGER and BOLDER than my delicate pearl necklace and matching earrings I so dearly loved at the time.

While most brides focus on the finding the perfect dress for their wedding day, it is just as important to give some thought to the accessories. The first and foremost rule to wedding jewelry is not to overdo it. While it may be fun to get lost in the tulle and satin, it is not a time to load up on the "bling!" After all, a bride does not want to be upstaged by her jewelry on the big day. It is possible to pull off a royal look without looking like the queen's closet has been raided.

Once a bride has settled on her dress, it is time to shop for the accessories. It might be tempting to purchase a necklace or earrings simply because they are beautiful, but a bride's goal is to create an overall dazzling effect. This means shopping for pieces that will complement the dress. Avoid buying an item without first thinking about how it will fit harmoniously with the rest of the outfit.

Before choosing jewelry it is also good to know what type of metal will work best with a specific gown's coloring. Gold embellishments clash with the bright white hue of a true white gown. Instead, consider pearls or platinum.
A diamond-white, or barely off-white colored gown matches well with gold and silver, as well as rose gold and pearl. For gowns in a candlelight shade choose gold jewelry to highlight the light white or yellow undertones.

The style of the dress also comes into play when choosing bridal jewelry. For instance, a strapless gown is ideal for a swept up hairdo, along with elegant chandelier earrings that will move and catch the light. For a sleek look, choose crystal or a touch of color. A sentimental bride might choose her birthstone or a lighter color from her bouquet. Diamond earrings are always a stylish choice as they frame a bride's face beautifully in pictures.

For a bride with a more contemporary edge, it can be a challenge to create the right balance with a sleek, elegant dress that most often typifies a modern wedding. Traditional jewelry can provide a fun contrast with and soften the contemporary look of the dress. Pearls have a timeless elegance for both a traditional and contemporary bride. For an unusual statement, choose iridescent, blue-grey Tahitian pearls or petite pink ones. Teardrop-shape pearls are lovely set as drop earrings or as a pendant.

The bride looking for a vintage look has a variety of fun choices for self expression. Check jewelry stores and websites for unique pieces set with colored stones. Colored cubic zirconia is also a hip choice. Vintage jewelry is another favorite for this look - from Marcasite jewelry to bold beads. Or, for dresses with a vintage flair, create a contrast with modern-style jewelry.

The V-neck dress is a favorite with brides who want to show a little d'colletage. This style looks great with a pendant or choker, as well as a single- or double-strand of pearls. For a truly glitzy look, choose a crystal choker with matching earrings that will catch the light - and guests' attention. The v-neck dress and halter styles are also great styles for bringing the attention upwards. Some brides choose to decorate their tresses with a stylish headband or crystal hairpins. Hair worn in a sleek bun or loose ponytail accessorizes the halter look beautifully.

Most importantly, brides should choose jewelry that reflects their personality. A bride who is uncomfortable wearing chandelier earrings should stick to a diamond or pearl stud. No matter what the choice, a bride who is comfortable in her accessories will exude the confidence and beauty from within.

Bridal Jewelry Tips
1. Brides should wear jewelry they love and that reflects their personality.
2. Consider the neckline of the wedding dress when choosing a necklace. A sweetheart neckline looks fine without one, but v-necks provide a perfect frame for a special piece.
3. Avoid the temptation to overwhelm the dress by wearing too many accessories.
4. Match hairstyle to dress: Brides with short hair or those wearing an up-do can choose longer earrings to compliment their style. Brides with long hair should consider stud earrings that add an accent to the flowing tresses.
5. Match jewelry to dress color.
6. Brides can never go wrong with the classic look of diamonds and pearls.

Bridal Headpieces in Plain English!

2009-01-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

Headpieces are the ultimate bridal accessory, adding just the right sparkle to your look. They offer both and accent and overall dimension to the appearance of the gown. Many times it can also reinforce a theme. Headpieces are a strong component of the overall bridal look again this season. Veils, hats and hair accessories are graced with feathers, silk leaves and petals. Feathers are one of the hottest trends to emerge this season as an accent on dress hems, tops and headpieces.

HALF HAT - Small hat covering half of the head. Worn in any position. Often worn with a birdcage veil.

HALO - The bridal halo style by definition is a circular bridal headpiece. Some consist of fabric flowers, or rhinestones and pearls or a combination of all three. Bridal Halos are a good choice for a headpiece if you decide to wear your hair in a curly up do or have a short cut. These types of bridal headpieces can be worn alone or with a detachable veil.

HAIR PINS / STICKS - These are ornamental hairclips that both hold up the hair for updo's and act as an attractive accessory. They are a available in a huge variety of styles and colors.

JULIET CAP - A Juliet cap sits at the crown of your head, and can be adorned with pearls, beading, or any other materials that coordinate with your gown. You can wear a Juliet cap alone, or use it to attach a veil. The Juliet Cap style is not something we regularly see, but its undeniably pretty and unusual.

PICTURE HAT - The most classic hat for daytime formals. Wide-brimmed and typically constructed out of straw or horsehair, picture hats are sometimes swathed in netting and organza. Either way, they conjure up images of croquet parties at Jay Gatsby's and all those 1930s movies draped in garden party chic.

PILLBOX - Round and brimless, this hat's worn either centered or back on the head. Though the style was first launched in the 1930s, Jackie Kennedy revived the look. And guess what? Martha Stewart wore a pillbox when she got married in the early sixties. Generally this hat looks best with suits and fitted sheath designs, but it's super with most other silhouettes.

PROFILE - The profile is an ornamental comb (often featuring flowers, crystals or pearls) that is worn either on the top or side of the head, or underneath your hairstyle. Profiles can be worn with or without a veil and are a great way to accent a sophisticated updo.

SNOOD - A snood is a net that encases a bun at the back of your head and can be made from a variety of fabrics and embellishments. You can attach a veil to the bottom of this headpiece.

WREATH - A circle of flowers that sits above the crown of the head or lower, encircling the forehead.

TIARA - Perhaps the most popular headpiece is the tiara. A tiara is an ornamental crown of pearls, crystals or rhinestones worn at the top of the head. Tiara's can be worn alone or with a veil.

Beaches Resorts Free Wedding

2009-01-01T09:47:00.000-08:00

I found this deal while I was surfing around checking out contests for Brides. Thought it was worth a mention here since the destination is totally romantic and beautiful.

Stay in a Premium category or higher for 6 nights or longer and your wedding is free!!!
We'll even waive the goverment/administrative fees (savings of up to $700)
Plus, when you stay at Beaches in May, September or October, you get the free wedding regardless of which room category you select.
The Free Wedding Includes*
Personal wedding consultant

Picturesque wedding location

Preparation of documentation

Certified copy of marriage license

One 5"x7" wedding photograph

"Just Married" T-shirts

Caribbean Wedding Cake

Marriage officiant

Champagne & hors d'oeuvres reception

Honeymoon dinner for bride & groom

Continental breakfast in bed

Bouquet and Boutonniere

Goverment / Administrative fees

For your convenience they also have the local marriage requirements listed on their site - Click here.

Contest Alert - Honeymoon

2009-01-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

This is the same sponsor as the Sandals promotion but different locations. Win a 7 day/6 night all-inclusive honeymoon at a Beaches Resort of your choice.

Jamaica, the fairest isle of the Caribbean, is a nature lover's dream, a cultural haven, a sunseeker's paradise, and an artist's delight. In Jamaica, it's impossible not to feel "irie," which means feeling all right, all the time.

Halfway between Miami and Puerto Rico, lie an uncrowded, unspoiled group, of British Islands known as Turks & Caicos. Providenciales, home to Beaches, is the shining jewel in this exotic chain of isles.

Enter now!

Contest Alert - Honeymoon

2009-01-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

Win a 7 day/6 night all-inclusive honeymoon at a Sandals Resort of your choice (subject to availability).

This one is my personal favorite - almost makes me want to enter and get married again if I win! All inclusive so this package is awesome!

On four idyllic tropical isles, you'll find twelve extraordinary Sandals resorts. All have been created for two people in love and devoted entirely to making every moment perfect. Best of all everything is included, so your only concern is with each other.

Antigua

Bahamas

Jamaica

St. Lucia

Enter contest
Learn more about the locations!

Contest Alerts - Brides Questionnaire

2009-01-01T07:58:00.000-08:00

In the 75th Anniversary Edition of Brides magazine is a questionnaire, complete these questions to win a a prize package including a 5 night stay at a Disney Resort hotel with an approx. value of $7,500. (Total package listed below) No purchase necessary - enter by February 10,2009.

I read this magazine front to back every month and have answered the questions for you. Answers are in bold.

1. Which designer lets brides emphasize their unique sense of style?
Raylia

2. What beauty brand offers complimentary Signature Services?
Estee Lauder

3. The Allure bride is holding what wedding day accessory?
Veil

4. What website offers inspired ideas for a custom wedding?
Jean M

5. Complete the phrase: Banded together for ________.
Eternity

6. What is the Bari Jay bridesmaid wearing in her hair?
Flower

7. Michael stores offer brides what percentage off of their total wedding purchase? 25%

8. Which product helps brides melt away stress before their big day?
Johnson's Body Care

9. Describe the color worn by the Alyce Designs bridesmaids?
The bridesmaids are in Blue Ice gowns and the maid is wearing what appears to be Alyce's Coral Blue color.

10. What company started crafting invitations and accessories in 1910?
Rexcraft

11. Disney can turn your special day into what?
A fairytale

12. Name the three featured invitation collections for destination weddings. Tropical, Coastal, Vegas

13. What is Sam's wish for her perfect start?
There is no Sam - only Kate and Tim

14. Name one of the all-inclusive Palace Resorts destinations.
Cozumel

15. Which fashion brand encourages brides to experience a virtual dress rehearsal with Dress Your Wedding™?
David's Bridal

16. When are Kim and Steven getting married?
7-17-10

17. What destination offers a honeymoon away from everything...except each other? Tahiti

18. Which fine china brand transforms a bride into the queen of entertaining?
Lenox

19. Name your favorite 'Invitations by Dawn' theme?
Cala Lillies

20. Which brand gives you diamond strength nails for your wedding day?
Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Polish

21.You can't buy love, but what company offers great bridal bargains?
Ann's Bridal Bargains

22. What color is the bride's vanity table?
White

23. Naturally ever after™ designs are made from what?
30% post consumer fibers.

24. Which designer features a Gold Key to unlock your passion?
Tacori

25. Name your favorite style of the "Five Classifications of Bridal."
Three Stone

26. Which product will give you the brightest smile for your big day?
Nite White

27. What website is known as 'Your Wedding Invitation Resource'?
Wedding.orders.com

The prize is a Brides 75th Anniversary Prize Package including: (a) a six (6) day/five (5) night trip for two (2) to the Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida that includes accommodations (one(1) standard room (double occupancy)) for five (5) nights at a hotel at the Walt Disney World® Resort selected by Disney Destinations, LLC ("Disney"), two (2) 6 day Magic Your Way Tickets with Park Hopper® Option and one (1) $500.00 Disney Gift Card, (b) one (1) $1,500 American Express gift card, (c) one (1) $1,500 gift card to Saks Fifth Avenue; and (d) up to $1,700 that winner may use towards airfare and ground transportation to and from the Walt Disney World® Resort. The total approximate retail value of the prize is $7,500, depending on exact itinerary

Click here or on the title to enter.
Image via Wikipedia

Contest Alert

2009-01-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

Win the Hallmark Perfect Start Sweepstakes and you could win $4,000 and a year of free greeting cards!

Click here to enter!

Contest Alert

2009-01-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

Image by rickz via FlickrEternity by Calvin Klein was inpsired by the ideal of lasting love and intimacy. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Eternity, win an eternity band as unique as your "eternal love" story.

Submit your eternal love story. Tell them why your love will last a lifetime and win your choice of eternity band. Send to EternityBrides@condenast.com by February 10, 2009

Contest Alert

2009-01-01T07:24:00.000-08:00

Win a Diamond Necklace!
Jewelry box need an upgrade? The Royal Asscher Diamond Company is giving away 75 of these pavé pendants, designed in honor of our diamond anniversary.

In celebration of its 75th anniversary Brides.com is giving away 75 diamond pendants!

Enter now

Contest Alert

2009-01-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello and Happy New Year to everyone. I hope your holidays went well. Mine were a little crazy, not sure what I was thinking opening a gift shop 2 weeks before Christmas, so I am way behind on my blog. Hopefully things will get back to normal now.

I have found quite a few contests going on for 2009 brides - good luck to you all and any winners please let us know! Once I get the contests posted we'll move onto some cool stuff for 2009!

The Lenox Opal Innocence Sweepstakes is your chance to win eight 5-piece place settings of Opal Innocence Stripe, Opal Innocence Scroll or Opal Innocence Classic dinnerware.

Enter here by February 16, 2009

The Marriage Carriage (Getaway Car)

2008-12-09T11:19:00.000-08:00

As some of you may remember in my previous post, I have a personal reason for preferring the “dramatic getaway” from your wedding. Unless you have a full service wedding planner I’ve seen a lot of brides try to dump the job of organizing this task on the groom. Before you do this make sure the dramatic effects are as important to him as they are to you. As wonderful as he is some the grooms just “don’t get it” when it comes to the theatrics of this event.

It is very important for you to plan ahead for your wedding transportation. Ideally you would like to have your transportation decided upon and booked six months ahead of time with 4 months being the absolute latest.

The first thing you need to do of course is to decide the type of transporation you want to get away in. There are endless options now when wedding transportation used to be pretty much limited to limousines. There are now specialist car rental companies that specialize in matching a car to the style of your wedding.

If you are staying the night in the hotel where your reception is located you can still do this just to take a relaxing ride away from all the festivities and prepare for your wedding night!

A few ideas for the getaway..
Hop in a limo and enjoy the first private moment with your loved one since the ceremony without worrying about driving.

If you had a beach or Hollywood glam theme, hop in a convertible!

If you had an upscale black tie affair hop in a luxury car like a Rolls Royce or Mercedes (which can be chauffered or not)

Think about your wedding style and explore all your options. No matter what your choice the getaway will be memorable while enabling you to get away gracefully and quickly.

Contest Alert - WOW!

2008-12-08T17:41:00.000-08:00

Click here to register now! Ends December 31st, 2008.

Gloves – To Wear or Not To Wear?

2008-12-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

Most young brides I’ve talked to have not even considered wearing gloves, not that they are opposed to it. The idea just hasn’t crossed their mind. My advice is try on a pair with your gown, and you may be surprised at how much you like them. Gloves can add a sophisticated and polished look to any wedding gown.

There is no question that the addition of gloves will add dignity and grace to your wedding ensemble. The proper gloves will lend an air of elegance to this special occasion. However, because we don't wear gloves as often as perhaps our mothers or grandmothers did in the past, choosing the proper gloves and knowing the rules of wearing them can be intimidating.

Glove Style
Glove etiquette is a reflection of the times. Historically, the length of the glove was directly related how formal the affair and the time of day. Today, however, with more relaxed social rules, the length of the glove is a more adequate reflection of fashion-the color and style of your dress are the most important factors in choosing the proper glove. Your wedding gloves should complement your dress. Choose simple gloves to wear with an ornate gown. Conversely, a simple gown allows for fancier gloves. Remember the goal is to enhance not to overwhelm. While the traditional color for gloves is white, your wedding gloves should match your dress in both color and texture-white with white, ivory with ivory and more and more brides are opting for color gloves now too. The texture of your gloves should be similar to that of your dress. Silk gloves go perfectly with a silk gown. Other materials such as kidskin, satin, or lace are also appropriate, depending on the style of the dress. We now have the choice of fingerless gloves or glovelets as well.

Glove Length
Glove lengths range from 1-button, ending at the wrist, to 20-button, ending at the shoulder. The length you choose should complement your sleeve length. Generally, the shorter the sleeve, the longer the glove-a sleeveless or strapless gown would dictate a glove that comes to the upper arm. Elbow length gloves (12-button) should be chosen for dresses with either cap sleeves or elbow length sleeves. Shorter gloves (6-button and shorter) are reserved for dresses with longer, more fitted sleeves. It is important to remember that while the sleeve of the gown and the glove may meet, it is never proper for a glove to cover the sleeve of a dress.

Exchanging of the Rings
During the exchanging of rings, you may either remove the glove from the left ring finger by slitting the fabric underneath and lifting it over the finger or you may choose to remove the glove altogether. If you remove the glove, simply give it to the maid of honor at the same time you pass your bouquet. It's a good idea to practice removing your glove several times before your wedding to ensure a smooth transition. After the rings have been exchanged, simply pull the glove back down over the finger. If the glove has been removed, leave it off until after the ceremony. Remember to put your gloves back on for photographs.

During the Reception
At the reception, your gloves should be kept on in the receiving line and for special dances with your groom and your father. As it is never acceptable to eat or drink while wearing gloves, you should remove your gloves before cutting your wedding cake. As the more formal aspects of your wedding are now complete, you may wish to take off your gloves, relax, and enjoy your party! A fun idea is to change to a special bracelet or glovelet for the reception.

New Product Alert

2008-12-03T11:01:00.000-08:00

Not sure if you want to wear gloves or looking for something to change into for the reception? Check out these glovelets - a beautiful alternative to gloves or can be worn over them!

Rows of clear rhinestones and petite silver beads.

Our classiest glovelet with an entire strand of rhinestones wrapping around your wrist, down into a loop for your finger.

Our beautiful Honey's Sleeve glovelet comes in silver-plated or gold-plated colors and has a web which wraps around your wrist with a single strand extended to ensnare one of your fingers - a beautiful and exotic addition to your outfit.

Rhinstone glovelet with small crosses extending from double rhinestone chain.

Click here for more information.

Contest Alert

2008-12-03T09:43:00.000-08:00

The Bridal Wishlist: It's another Bridal Wishlist GIVEAWAY!

The prize is a free set of 40 personalized cards & envelopes with a printed return address. These gorgeous cards can be used for your wedding thank you notes. You can check out their notes collection here. The value is $250 or $300 depending on the style of card chosen.

Details > The Bridal Wishlist: It's another Bridal Wishlist GIVEAWAY!

Your Wedding Night

2008-12-01T13:09:00.000-08:00

I saw this in a magazine once and the answers were a hoot - figured I'd try it here for a few giggles. So here we go...

Did you do "it" on your wedding night?

I'll start and fess up -

NO - My wonderful brand new husband invited everyone back to our house to party when the reception ended and by 1am I coulnd't hold my eyes open anymore. Better yet - everyone was still there when I woke up!

Hint: Avoid this by planning a glam exit and leaving before your guests!

Hot Color Combos

2008-11-30T12:32:00.000-08:00

For some choosing a color palette is instant but more often than not it’s one of the more difficult decisions brides are faced with. After all it’s your colors that pull your whole wedding together from start to finish. In choosing you need to ask yourself a few questions.

1. What color am I instantly drawn to?
2. Have I been to any weddings that inspired me?
3. What colors will work (or clash) with your chosen venue or vision?

Always think about the “big picture” in selecting your colors. With that said here are some hot color combo’s I’ve come across.

Red / Orange
A vivid scheme is the way to go with this all-star match up. These complementary shades are the ultimate pair for making your wedding bright and bold and can be used any time of the year.

Tip: Choose Mandarin Orange bridesmaid dresses and add a scarlet sash or Ruby Red dresses with a Clementine Orange bow.

For flowers - lilies, parrot tulips, roses

Chocolate / Green
Chocolate brown is a perennial favorite amongst brides but this year new colors are being teamed up with it like pale pink, mandarin orange or turquoise blue. Kelly Green is ideal for the chocolate green match or spice it up with Green Apple tones.

Tip: Go organic by mixing green grasses, woody branches and earthy blooms to create a modern look.

Yellow / White
This is the ideal way to set a golden theme at any time of the year. For a very cold weather wedding throw in a warm shade of gray. All other season options are endless!

Tip: For a fabulous summer touch serve lemon flavored ice.

For flowers: Sunflowers, cymbidium orchids, bright yellow roses.

Red / Aqua
Like classic crimson and navy but don’t want the nautical look? Get color creative and deviate from tradition. Periwinkle would look nice but why not choose a refreshing shade of aquamarine instead? Try throwing in a little scarlet for drama.

Tip: Dress your bridesmaids in turquoise and choose bright red blooms. Use modern turquoise ribbon on bouquets.

Black / White
Ultra chic for a formal evening affair or to formalize an afternoon wedding. Throw in some hot pink or rich marigold for a stunning effect.

Tips: Work the textures. If you are using any photos in your décor choose black and white ones.

What's New - Hello Dolly Line

2008-11-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Weddingstar has introduced there Hello Dolly line of gifts for 2009. The ever popular pink and black line of gardening and "Ladies" tools are sure to be a hit! My personal favorite is the hammer which I have already ordered for myself! Doesn't ever self respecting lady need a pink blingy hammer to hang things on the wall?

Crystal "Bling" encrusted hammer with pink details. Fashionably packaged in a little black box.

Hello Dolly - Multi-Purpose Tool Belt in Pink
This belt is a great accessory to your working outfit! A great belt that has 12 pockets of 5 varying sizes - you won't be caught without the spot for the right tool for the job. This is a gift for anyone - the gardener, fix-it queen, painter or artist. This belt is made with lightweight, hard wearing, water resistant fabric and reinforced stitching with rivets for extra durability. This belt also has a tape holder and two hammer loops.

Hello Dolly - Tape Measure in Gift Box
Pink and black measuring tape. Individually packaged in a little black box with pink ribbon.

Hello Dolly - Pink Canvas/Cotton Apron
This stylish, pretty in pink apron, makes a fabulous gift for any girl that loves to look great while at work!

Hello Dolly - Multi-Purpose Gloves in Pink
Pink, Black and Hot! These multi-purpose gloves are fashionable, comfortable and hardwearing. Made from spandex and leather they mould to your hand and are perfect for working on the house, in the garden and even for driving. With black leather palms they are also good at disguising any dirt and can also be thrown in the washing machine!

Hello Dolly - Multi- Tool in Pink
Small enough to keep it in your purse, desk drawer, house or car. The following tools are included: needle-nose pliers, straight knife, wire cutters, small screwdriver, phillips screwdriver, lanyard attachment, can/bottle opener, corkscrew with assist, scissors, saw, serrated knife and diamond file.

Hello Dolly - Hang-it-up Kit in Pink Wrap Pouch
This convenient case can be easily hung wherever duty calls. This is a great case to have in your car. The following items are included: measuring tape, hammer, 20-in-1 screwdriver, 3-in-1 level, plus an assortment of nails, screws, and picture hooks. All tools are stylish in black and pink. Case has black embroidery detail.

Hello Dolly - Gardening Set in Gift Box
Made from polished aluminum with soft pink ergonomic handles for easy use, these tools will perform where you need them so you can just look fabulous! The following tools are included: basic spade, basic fork, secateurs / pruning shears. Fashionably packaged in a little black box.

Hello Dolly - 30 Piece Tool Kit with Pink Case
Durably packaged in a stainless steel brief case for easy access and portability. The following items are included: 6" adjustable wrench, scissors, 6.5" blunt nose pliers, 3m measuring tape, utility knife, hammer, 20-in-1 screwdriver, 3-in-1 level, plus an assortment of nails, screws, and picture hooks. All tools are stylish in black and pink.

All are available at discount prices at Dreams to Reality Wedding Shop - plus free tickets to the next Great Bridal Expo in your area!

Contest Alert

2008-11-30T11:30:00.000-08:00

The Brides Cafe is hosting the The Ultimate Wedding Giveaway for brides getting married in the Richmond, VA/Tidewater/DC/MD area between the months of April and December 2009. Visit them for full details!

10 Tips to Glamorize Your Wedding

2008-11-29T14:34:00.000-08:00

The best wedding planners have visions, just like any designer and can picture the whole event down to tiny details. If you’re a fan of My Fair Wedding you may have seen David helping the Irish bride who was thinking green. That’s a pretty common reaction, think Irish think green right? Not David, he thought Waterford! It’s that kind of thinking that turns a wedding into a memorable and glamorous one.

Here is a list of 10 things you do to kick your wedding up a notch.

1. Dress up the tables – This may seem odd to emphasize but table linens play a major role in shaping a room’s appearance. They offer some of the most prominent colors and textures at a wedding. For the most dramatic choose tablecloths in a shimmery fabric that reflect light. Chooses bronzes, silvers and other metallics for a special glow, the reflecting candlelight is amazing. Most venues have basic table linens; you can use overlays if your budget is limited and still make the space amazing.

2. Go for dramatic lighting – Everyone and everything looks more glamorous in low lighting. Use candles liberally and arrange for the venue to dim the lights to enhance the effect. If candles alone can provide enough light for your space that will create a truly unique and intimate ambience that will be unforgettable – what’s more romantic then a candle lit room? Use drip free candelabras, pillars, votives, and any other kind of candle you can imagine. Think of the candles as being part of your color palette.

3. Pump up your post vows look – A-list actresses, socialites and over the top brides have all been known to change into an entirely different gown for the reception. If 2 gowns are more than your budget can handle you can still make a show stopping 2nd entrance by altering your look for the reception. If you wear all white for your ceremony consider incorporating you wedding colors into your attire with a bright sash or even a special made underlay skirt for your dress in a matching color. Even changing accessories and hair adornments can greatly alter your appearance and create a memorable look.

4. Consider all white wedding attire – Black tie is the last word in traditional men’s formalwear, but you can set your groom and his men apart by dressing them in white jackets which is often done in elegant summer weddings. Something else that has been done and stood out was dressing your bridesmaid’s in white also. There’s a shade of white that flatters everyone and your all white attire will create a knockout effect in photos. If you want to make sure that you stand out add a colored sash to their dresses or put them in ivory and you where white or vice versa.

5. Nix the cookie cutter stationery – Utilizing stationery with boilerplate formality is a safe and traditional choice but it doesn’t offer any wow factor anymore. But be aware of the line between being creative and looking home spun. Subtly incorporate key elements of the event’s design scheme into the invitations and all your wedding stationery. Shop around and look at what’s available and think of how you can personalize it. Many different embellishments and other items are available now to further personalize, just don’t overdo it.

6. Try a tent – You see it everywhere now, celebrity wedding planners agree that a tented reception offers the most potential for a glam gathering. It’s a blank slate to start with so no worries about colors of the rug or wallpaper not matching your colors. Ceremonies in rented mansions with glamorous outdoor receptions are really hot right now. And another plus to it – look at what you save on transportation costs! This set up also gives you the opportunity for a cocktail hour before guests enter the tent.

7. Play sultry music – When you trying to set sophisticated mood music can present a dilemma. On one hand you want your guests to dance and have a great time but on the other hand seeing Great Uncle Wally get down to YMCA isn’t exactly the most romantic thought you’ve ever had. Although big bands are always a parent pleaser, a Latin American or Brazilian band is much sexier.

8. Keep the menu minimal – Rather than overwhelming your guests with a mass quantity of culinary options, go for a few high quality choices. Try to select a menu tailored to the season or the setting. For dessert pass on the fondue fountain in favor of rich, bite size chocolates and petit fours served at each table along side the cake.

9. Choose chic flowers – If glamour is your goal you might not want flower arrangements that look like they were casually picked out of a country meadow. Go for stylish structured centerpieces by “color blocking” with flowers. Picking colors close together in tone actually provides a more glamorous visual impact then contrast filled bouquets.

10. Make a grand exit – Newlyweds often skip a formal send off and dance until the lights come on. Or in the case of my own wedding my new husband loaded up all the left over alcohol and invited everyone back to our place to keep the party going! You’ll close on a more polished note if you buck that trend and leave before the guests do with a festive exit. Have your guests hold sparklers ask you whisk away in a chauffeured Rolls Royce or if you’re on water have a boat pick you up. An elaborate send off lends the party an enchanted and romantic aura. The ideas are endless for exiting in style.

FREE Bridal Expo Tickets

2008-11-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

Dreams to Reality Wedding Shop has teamed up with The Great Bridal Expo and WE TV to provide customers with free tickets to the next Great Bridal Expo in your area!

Anyone who places an order at Dreams to Reality Wedding Shop between now and December 5th will get 2 free tickets for admission. ($14.00 value)

Win BIG with the Great Bridal Expo! Every show features a "Super Sweepstakes" with prizes from every exhibitor. Just visit each booth for your chance to win!

Plus, a few lucky brides-to-be will take home grand prizes, including jewelry, airline tickets, and a dream honeymoon at Sandals, one of the Caribbeans most romantic all-inclusive resorts.

Tour Schedule:

1/3/2009 12:00 NOON OMNI SHOREHAM HOTEL
2500 Calvert St NW
Washington, DC 20008

1/4/2009 12:00 NOON SHERATON PHILADELPHIA CITY CENTER
17th & Race Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103

1/11/2009 12:00 NOON SHERATON BALTIMORE CITY CENTER
101 W. Fayette Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

1/17/2009 12:00 NOON WESTIN BOSTON COPLEY PLACE
10 Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA 02111

1/19/2009 5:30PM NEW YORK MARRIOTT MARQUIS
1535 Broadway
New York, NY 10036

1/31/2009 12:00 NOON BLAKE HOTEL CHARLOTTE
555 S McDOWELL STREET
CHARLOTTE, NC 28217

2/1/2009 12:00 NOON GRAND HYATT ATLANTA BUCKHEAD
3300 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30305

2/8/2009 12:00 NOON BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER
1950 Eisenhower Blvd
Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316

2/22/2009 12:00 NOON TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER
333 S Franklin Street
Tampa, FL 33602

3/1/2009 12:00 NOON HYATT REGENCY MIAMI
400 S E 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33131

3/8/2009 12:00 NOON DENVER MARRIOTT CITY CENTER
1701 California Street
Denver, CO 80202

3/15/2009 12:00 NOON CROWNE PLAZA CHICAGO O'HARE
5440 North River Road
Rosemont, IL 60018

3/22/2009 12:00 NOON FAIRMONT DALLAS
1717 N Akard Street
Dallas, TX 75201

4/1/2009 12:00 NOON PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER
111 North Third Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

4/4/2009 12:00 NOON SAN FRANCISCO MARRIOTT BURLINGAME
1800 Bayshore Hwy
Burlingame, CA 94010

4/19/2009 12:00 NOON SHERATON GATEWAY LOS ANGELES
6101 W. Century Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90045

4/26/2009 12:00 NOON ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER
800 W Katella Ave
Anaheim, CA 92802

5/3/2009 12:00 NOON FAIRMONT SAN JOSE
170 South Market Street
San Jose, CA 94103

5/8/2009 5:30PM NEW YORK MARRIOTT MARQUIS
1535 Broadway
New York, NY 10036

$10,000+ Prize Package Will Take Care of a Breast Cancer Survivor from Head to Toe on Her Wedding Day

2008-11-28T10:08:00.000-08:00

Found on the ABC-OC

Say ‘I Do’ With a Big ‘Do Contest Presented by The Spiraled Stem Floral Design. An amazing dream package will be given away to 1 special bride that meets all the criteria. Full details at The Spiraled Stem

Applications will be accepted from November 1, 2008 at 8:00am PST to January 2, 2009 at 8:00pm PST.

Contest Alerts

2008-11-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

Inspired Occassions is giving away 16 Personalized Out of Town Welcome Bags to one lucky reader…the packs will include your own wedding colors, personalized with your monogram and wedding date on the front of the bag, as well as personalized water bottle labels, chocolate bars complete with custom wrappers, and brochures letting your guests know about upcoming wedding festivities and details. This prize is valued at over $100.00.

The contest is open to residents of Canada and the U.S.A. and closes December 31, 2008 so be sure to get your entry in early. A winner will be selected by Inspired Occasions and announced by January 7, 2009.

To enter send an email to terra@inspiredoccasions.ca. Be sure to write CONTEST in the subject line. Include your wedding date along with a brief description of you and your fiancé, your vision for your upcoming wedding day and why it’s important for you to welcome your guests in style.

A Shower to match any bride!

2008-11-27T14:52:00.000-08:00

Showers have come a long way since the old days of making sure the poor "lovebirds" started out with all the necessities they needed in their home. I've started out below with traditional ideas then went into some more modern shower alternatives.

TRADITIONAL WEDDING SHOWER
A traditional shower is female only with just close friends and relatives in attendance. The party generally takes place at a relative’s home, whoever has the largest living room or garden. A party room may be rented if a larger area is needed. Tea time or lunch gatherings are common, with finger foods and light appetizers being served. Games are pretty standard with rowdy stories, strong cocktails, and naughty games being left out. Think tea, cake and grandmother friendly festivities.

Who is invited?
Mother of the bride and groom
Stepmothers
Grandmothers of the bride and groom
Sisters of the bride and groom
Close aunts, cousins, and nieces
All female attendants
Close female friends of the bride
Close female friends of the groom
The bride and groom’s father might be invited depending on the bride’s preference. Traditional bridal showers often extended invitations to fathers so they didn’t feel left out and they would usually make a brief appearance then gracefully bow out early.

LINGERIE SHOWER

This is the “naughty” version of the traditional female only shower. Guests are asked to bring gifts of lingerie and accessories (think massage oils) that the bride can wear or use on her wedding night and honeymoon. This version is sometimes called a fantasia or fantasy party and is almost always much more comfortable if the “boys” are excluded!

The lingerie theme usually carries over to creatively shaped cakes, eye popping decorations, crude jokes and a lot of laughs shared amongst friends. And don’t think the older crowd can’t have fun too – they have years of experience to draw from!

ACTIVITY SHOWERS
These showers focus more on hands-on fun rather then a mountain of gifts. Below are some popular outing for the girls. Since activity showers are so expensive the host typically requests in the invitation that each guest pay for their own participation plus a little extra to cover the bride and a gift. Any food or drinks are generally covered by the bridal party or whoever is hosting the shower.

Some ideas for this type of shower:

*Dance Lessons: Hire a coach to teach a few moves in salsa, jazz, tap, ballroom or belly dancing. Pole dancing has also become huge lately for female get togethers as well as working out. An added bonus in this is watching everyone break out into their new moves during the wedding reception! Excluding the pole dancing we hope!

*Cooking Lessons: Hire a local chef to teach everyone how to make a tasty dish, or visit a local culinary school and take a group lesson. Afterwards everyone can site down and enjoy the food they've prepared! I have a friend who did this, she found a local chef to come to her home and we really had a blast. Go to Hire a Chef to find a local one.

*Bartending School: hire a professional bartender to teach guests how to mix signature cocktails. Of course everyone gets to try them and who knows - you may invent a signature drink for the wedding since signature drinks are definitely IN !!

*Spa Outing: Gather all the girls for an afternoon of pampering at the local spa. To keep costs reasonable book smaller treatments such as manicures and pedicures. The extra money collected is usually used to cover the cost for the bride and the leftover is used to purchase a gift certificate for a couples visit after the wedding - typically a massage.

*Psychic Readings: Another one I've done personally and highly recommend. It is very entertaining at the least and makes for great conversation afterwards! The reader can predict what sort of love-filled adventures is in store for all the guests or any other options your own reader comes up with.

**Wine Tasting: hire a local sommelier (wine connoisseur) and have each guest bring a regional wine as their shower gift. Provide cheese, crackers, grapes and strawberries and then crack open the bottles and try each vintage!
Locate a professional by calling local wine bars and asking for recommendations.
Or, contact a sommelier from a favorite restaurant whose advice you trust.
If your first choice isn't available, they likely know someone who might be right for the job.

COUPLE’S WEDDING SHOWER

Couple’s showers are a great option and more common now. Co-ed showers, often called “Jack and Jill” parties, give the groom a chance to receive male friendly gifts. He’s getting married too after all!

A coed shower is often more relaxed than a traditional one and often take the form of a backyard barbecue or a happy hour gathering with cocktails. The main purpose of the party is to shower the couple with gifts, but the focus is on the couple instead of just the bride.

Jack and Jill’s are commonly held at a friend’s home, a bar, a trendy club or restaurant. They offer a great chance for everyone to socialize and get to know each other before the wedding. The games played are generally very interactive and tend to pit the girls against the guys. It is best to keep the sexual overtones to a minimum at this type of gathering.

Avoid surprising people that are expecting a more traditional shower by indicating on the invitation that this is a co-ed shower. When they come prepared it will make for a more relaxed and fun atmosphere.

The guest list is exactly the same as the traditional shower except add male friends and relatives as well. A co-ed shower ends up larger than a traditional shower so the cost is usually shared amongst all wedding party members.

Prepare for your speech!

2008-11-27T12:41:00.000-08:00

OK - after spending all week sorting through my own speech notes and talking to public speakers I know here's what I have for you in short form (long form ahead)

Clearly you want to wow your audience and have them laughing in the right places for the right reasons. To achieve this it is vital that you prepare carefully.
Professional public speakers are like experienced drivers: the skills needed have become automatic to them. They are successful because they use the three P's of public speaking:
1. Preparation
2. Practice
3. Performance
Even vastly experienced public speakers who appear to be speaking off the cuff generally prepare in advance:

Preparation
There is a lot to say about the preparation stage. It is the part that requires the most work and which the audience never sees. It is like the foundations of a building.
A building will crumble, or at least subside if the foundations and lower levels are not soundly built. It will look decidedly odd.
Without thorough preparation and good material it is hard to deliver a good speech even if you practice until you are blue in the face. This is why at this site we give you guidance on how to practice and perform your speech, and offer you the 'Wedding Speech Package' and a choice of extra material for your preparation.
Decide how to prepare your material

Either make up your own, or use one of our ready-to-use speeches "as is" with only names changed.
• This is a simple and quick option. You will have a quality speech, available rapidly; particularly useful if you have been approached for a speech with little notice.
Or adapt a ready-to-use speech (this gives the chance to make it specific and relevant to the wedding couple and guests):
• Mix and match from several example speeches
• Add and subtract jokes or quotations
• Pay attention to the 'flow' and 'feel' of the speech.

Length of speech
Too short may seem rude, too long may be boring. Five minutes is a good rule of thumb (and will probably feel like a long time).
If you have an exceptional speech and prepare to deliver it really well, you might choose to stretch to 10 minutes.
However, bear in mind that if the other speakers did the same then the guests would be listening for 30 - 40 minutes, and if some of them are children you may encounter some unexpected 'heckling' as the children get bored - even if the parents are laughing.

A great subject
You only need one excellent idea to make the speech successful and memorable. To be of this caliber an idea needs to:
• Be well suited to the humor tastes of the majority of the audience
• Be in some way relevant to the generally known history of the wedding couple or their families
• Grab the attention of the guests and involve them so they 'anticipate' the story outcome or punch line. (They don't have to guess right for this to work; they just have to be guessing).
The point is, if you find such a good idea, make the most of it. Don't feel a need to swamp it with other stories or jokes. You may find it possible to refer to the basic idea at several points in the speech. Audiences love this.
Don't worry if you don't find such an idea. Instead use a combination of ideas, stories, jokes and quotations and meld them together to achieve a similar end.

Gather Information
Unless you intend to stick strictly to a pre written speech you will probably want to gather some information about the families and their histories.
Possible useful subjects might include:
• The weddings and marriage of the parents - how times have changed?
• Are the families both local, or have they come from different regions or countries?
• Marriage customs may differ between the families?
• Where did the bride / groom grow up?
• How did the bride / groom meet?
• Have they had any unusual / special experiences?
• Did they meet the Queen / President / someone famous?
• Did/Do they travel extensively?
• Have they received any awards or medals?
o Sporting achievements?
o Academic achievements?
• Do they have any famous ancestors?
• Do they have any interesting hobbies?
The anecdote does not have to be fantastically funny, because it benefits from being relevant to the families.
If in doubt, leave it out!
• Avoid anything in dubious taste! The point of the speech is to entertain rather than to shock or offend.
• Avoid stereotypes.
• Avoid negatives, regrets or criticisms. Anything that may make the couple or the families appear foolish automatically makes you look foolish for raising the subject - even if you thought it was funny, some guests won't. Trust me on this.
• Avoid rude jokes or sexual innuendos unless you are VERY sure of all the guests and their sense of what is funny. Even then some guests may have children present and the parents may disapprove even if they found the joke funny.
• Get someone to check your speech for unintentional double meanings and puns.
Work out your structure

Prune your notes and arrange them in order.
Make sure that you have included all the essentials - the thank-yous and the toast!
Get your material checked out
Did you know Uncle Silvester, for example, was an accountant? So avoid accountant jokes, or perhaps go the other way and make lots of them.
This may be particularly effective (or disastrous) if there are several accountants among the guests, or if the bride / groom is an accountant.
The point is ... find out days before giving the speech, this is particularly important for the best man who may not know the families well.
Avoid unwitting references to family skeletons - check with the "in-laws" as the bride / groom may not know of the previous generation's skeletons.
• A good friend will tell you if it is really as funny as you think.
• A bad friend will tell you its funny when it's not!

Speaker's Notes

Benefits of different sizes of speaker's notes:
• An A5 card will be less distracting than a big sheet of A4 paper flapping about.
• You may prefer to use the smaller postcard sized "box-file" cards which can be mostly hidden in the palm of your hand, but you will need more of them, and it is harder to keep your place as you give the speech.
We recommend that you get hold of some white A4 card from a stationer's. Cut the cards across the middle to create a set of A5 cards.
During the design and initial stages of practicing you may alter the wording and content several times. It may be useful to use your computer to alter the speech and put in 'headings' etc. using A4 paper. Then when the speech content is really settled, transfer the words in large letters to the A5 cards.

Note Tips
• Don't try to cram the speech onto as few cards as possible! You'll never be able to read it.
• Feel free to abbreviate if it means you get a convenient section on one card.
• Number the cards in case you drop them. Alternatively, punch holes in them and connect them with a tag or key ring.
• Highlight, emphasize and underline key words and phrases. Do this while you are practicing.
Once you are satisfied with your delivery during practice, you may find it useful to put 'headings' in suitable places. Make these large and bold. It is then easier to find your place if you do need to refer to the cards, and easier to spot the next subject.

"On-site" preparations

Check your transport arrangements - do you know the way there? And will you have a parking space booked? Have you allowed for the possibility of the train being late (ask yourself "what if" questions).
• Check out the venue beforehand if possible - where will you sit, where will you speak from, etc.
• Check any equipment - microphone? Lectern? Autocue!!?
• Check you have a glass of water to hand (and where is the toilet?!!).

Practicing
Make sure that you can tell the jokes!
If you find something funny it can sometimes be difficult to tell it to other people without ending up in a fit of giggles. This is amusing for the guests but does rather spoil the punch line. You may have an excellent joke or story but are forever stumbling over the punch line. To get over this problem:-
• Rehearse the joke out loud until it no longer makes you laugh.
• Rehearse it in front of a mirror, until you can get all the words out smoothly.
Remember you might find a joke funny which others do not. If in doubt, check with friends.

Rhythm
Practice as many times as necessary to get the phrasing, the pauses, the timing exactly right.
One speaker recommends you should practice an hour in total for every minute in the speech. So for a four minute speech, four hours practicing. This is not excessive.
Speak the speech - don't read it in a dull monotone. Speak it as if you are talking in conversation. Modulate your voice up and down. The larger the audience, the greater the modulation needed.

Visualization
How to "visualize"
How many people will you be speaking to at the reception? Bear this in mind and visualize them - imagine yourself projecting your voice and 'presence' to the back. If you visualize them you will be less likely to get stage fright on the Big Day, when looking at a sea of expectant faces.
• Imagine yourself speaking clearly, don't rush it.
• In your mind's eye see the audience - make eye contact with them and move your gaze around the room as you should try to on the day itself for optimum effect.
Visualization is a great tool for any learned skill, including public speaking.

Eye contact
Try not to have your eyes glued to your card. Read a phrase, look up and make eye contact, deliver it, look down for the next phrase. If you make a point of establishing eye contact with a different section of the audience each time, by the end of the speech you will have looked at and included everyone.
Practice your imaginary eye contact.

Snags?
Visualize how you will effortlessly recover from any little problems that might occur on the day:
• You spill your glass of water - possible recovery => step back from the spill, cover it with your napkin, apologize to the person sitting next to you and ask for their help, turn back to guests and continue ... e.g. "well I knew I had to do something dramatic to get started".
• The microphone is broken => you project your voice magnificently.
• You lose your voice the day before => now this is a difficult one! Have you got your speech completely written out (or typed) with headings and highlights? - then perhaps someone else can stand in for you, preferably after some hoarsely whispered guidance on the rhythm and timing which you had planned.
• What would I say/do if ? ....... (what else could go wrong?)
• If you consider all the options, nothing will faze you on the day.

Practicing - and the reduction of stage fright
There are techniques you can use if you feel assaulted by stage fright on the day (see "Performance"). You can also plan for the possibility of stage fright, and take action in advance to prevent or reduce it. It need not overwhelm.
Remember that most public performers will say that some level of nerves is necessary as it demonstrates that you really care about the quality of your performance and its effect on your audience.
• Start by re-defining stage fright as being 'keyed-up and alert, ready to give of your best'. This is not quite so 'punchy', not such a good 'sound bite', but it is a more helpful way of looking at things. Make 'stage-fright' work for you! That way it doesn't seem so frightening.
• Even after effective practice you can still expect to have butterflies, but you should find that once you start speaking on the day they will fly in formation.
• If you can stand the fear, practice in front of a friend (this is an excellent dry run because it is often more frightening than the real thing). Choose someone who is an encourager by nature and ask them to give constructive advice on your delivery, projection etc. If you do this it will help you enormously in getting over your inhibitions.
• Try recording yourself onto a tape. You will hear your weak points and your strong points. Do this a few times, work on the weaker areas and you will hear a steady improvement. Check your modulation, does it need greater emphasis?
• As you rehearse your speech - Visualize the event, visualize how the reception will go, visualize yourself speaking, and most importantly visualize the guests laughing at your jokes - and give them long enough to laugh after each joke before continuing.
If you are afraid of stage fright on the day, visualize now! Visualize suddenly getting tongue tied, and then pausing, gathering your thoughts looking at the guests, smiling at them and continuing onwards.

Remember:
Persistent Practice Prevents Poor Performance

Performing
A few notes on alcohol
Some speakers unfortunately try to get over their stage fright by drinking alcohol. Nothing is more embarrassing to an audience than a tipsy speaker. It is amazing how silly a drunken speaker sounds. By all means have one drink, but if you really want to do a good job, save the majority of the drinking until afterwards - by then people will be buying them for you!
It's also a good idea to lay off tea and coffee. Caffeine will make your jitters worse. Stick to soda water, mineral water or fruit juice, but not too much because you do not want to be caught short during your speech. Did you remember the location of the toilet?

Stage fright first aid
On the day you will probably experience a certain amount of stage fright ("keyed up readiness - remember?"). Don't be afraid of it - no actor / comedian / speaker ever delivered a successful performance without a measure of fear.
However, stage fright can have unfortunate side effects - sweating, shaking, heart beating furiously, etc. There are steps you can take to minimize these effects before you speak, namely:
Find the time to take long deep breaths - breathe right in, deep into your belly; slowly breathe out. Do it repeatedly. It works.
• Breathe in for four counts.
• Hold your breath and tense your toes for four counts.
• Breathe out for four counts.
• You should feel tension easing.
• Repeat with feet, ankles, calves, knees etc., right up your body to your neck, chin, lips, eyelids, forehead and scalp.
• You should be able to sneak this in without anyone noticing while sitting at the table.
• If you have the time, repeat these exercises as necessary.
When all is said and done, even if you have practiced endlessly and got your delivery perfect, on the day you will probably feel nervous to some degree. In your nervousness you might imagine that you're shaking like a leaf and everyone can see quite plainly that you're scared stiff.
Consider these points:-
• The audience are on your side - most of them would be scared stiff themselves. They're with you, not against you.
• If you don't transcribe your speech onto cards and you do shake while holding a piece of A4 paper, the shakes will be amplified by your speech flapping around like a windsock. See "Preparation".
• In practice almost every speaker is far more nervous than they look. You might feel nervous, but if you practice, prepare and deliver according to these guidelines, people will in all probability come up to you afterwards and say what a good job you've done.
• Get your audience to laugh with you - an excellent way to defuse your own tension and nerves.
Delivery
• BE CONFIDENT. You have prepared everything that could possibly be prepared for this moment.
• You have practiced a lot, your cards are in your hand, highlighted and underlined. You can have done no more. Be confident in that. The audience wants you to do well and will not be critical. Remember that and be confident in that as well.
• STAND UP. Wait for complete silence - don't be afraid of silences and pauses, they can be as eloquent as words. Don't hurtle into the speech to get it over with as quickly as possible.
• Establish eye contact with the audience. Look around at every section of the audience. Remember your visualization? Put it into practice now.
• Weigh your phrases, don't rush them. Really use your pauses. After a punch line, wait for them to jolly well laugh and don't start again until they have stopped laughing.
• Should they not laugh at a joke, it's not the end of the world. Some lines are intended mostly as links and aren't necessarily meant to be riotously funny. Move on to the next line and whatever you do don't accelerate through the speech just because they didn't laugh at one point where you thought they would.
• Remain measured, using your pauses to allow the audience to digest your words, get to the end, propose whichever toast is yours to toast, and sit down to take your applause.

Concluding Thoughts
A quick note for the Best Man: don't read all the greeting cards the Bride and Groom have received.
A lot of people dread the Best Man's speech because so many Best Men spend absolutely ages at the end of their speech endlessly droning through a stack of cards which all say much the same thing. By all means read two or three of them, perhaps ones specially chosen by the Bride and Groom.
You should by now be armed with everything you need - give it all you've got!
Good luck and best wishes for a successful day.

PS: Did I mention...
Persistent Practice Prevents Poor Performance

Favor buying tips

2008-11-26T16:06:00.000-08:00

Favor Buying 101
Tips to Buying the Right Favors
Whether you're hosting a casual wedding of 50 people, an 8-person beachside luau, or an elegant affair of 300+ black tie guests, we can help you find the right reception favors.

Follow these simple rules and your guests will be delighted:

1. KEEP IT PERSONAL

A favor is a keepsake to commemorate your day. Make sure it's really something people will associate with you. Personalize it! If you're not opting for personalized favors, you should be sure people won't be asking, "Whose wedding did we get this at?" three years down the road. Personalized wedding favors are in vogue today. Popular wedding favors are candy and chocolates, bath salts and soap, photo albums, picture frames, drink coasters, candles, wine glasses, shot glasses, and place card holders. Almost everybody loves chocolates and chocolate wedding favors are prized wedding favors for the guests who attend this auspicious occasion.

As a couple, or individually, people surely associate you with a certain style, hobby or other interest. Think about what those things might be, Poll friends and family about what makes them think of you. You want a wedding favor that will align with your personality AND your soul.
Idea: Met online? Give a personalized mouse pad or keyboard magnet.

2. BUDGET BUDGET BUDGET

Create a favor budget and stick to it! It's fun looking at all of the choices, but be careful. It's not hard for your favor purchase to quickly turn into $1000.00 if you're caught up in what's trendy or "cute," and not what's realistic. However - on the flip side - don't be too stuck on saving a buck, either. The rule of thumb is that if the favor costs under $1.00, it likely LOOKS like it cost under $1.00. Guests will be able to check up on you if you opt for cookie-cutter-made-in-china favors that are all over the Internet.

If you spend too little, you may hear negative rumblings instead of seeing appreciative smiles. If you spend too much, you'll probably have to adjust your budget elsewhere and skimp on another area of importance - like the guest book or the ring pillow. Be realistic when setting your budget - in the way of what you can afford, AND what "decent" favors typically cost.

3. PICK A THEME!

There's nothing more pleasing to guests and the bridal party, than seeing a theme throughout a ceremony and reception. It shows that you put time AND thought into the "little details."

Hosting a beach luau reception after seaside vows? Stick with favors that match - AND match your decorations and tableware. Hosting a formal Italian affair after a big Catholic Ceremony? Choose Italian-imported favors set on a favor table rather than at each place setting. Hosting a black-tie affair? You wouldn't give just Jordan Almonds wrapped in tulle! Opt for crystal favors.

The themes are limitless!

4. DON'T INVOLVE YOUR PARENTS

We love them, but this is YOUR day. It's often very easy for a guest to tell that your "mother must have picked those." How impersonal! You can ask for opinions, but be sure the choice is FULLY yours. Don't settle just to avoid a dispute.

5. PRACTICALITY

Pick favors that your guests can and will use. They CAN be practical AND beautiful. Be sure the favors you select will be widely received - meaning, they're not just something YOU like but will get tossed in the trash as people walk out the door. Pick something that you think EVERYONE at your wedding will enjoy. Some practical favor examples are themed cookie cutters, vases, crystal candy dishes, kitchen timers, photo holders (place card holders,) coffee scoops, or even olive oil bottles.

6. TRENDS

Be aware of trends, but don't be too stuck in them. For instance, "going green" is IN, and opting for plantable seed favors or bio-degradable favor boxes is a great idea. But don't SHOUT OUT that you went green. And don't overkill.

7. OVER BUY

It may cost you a few extra dollars, but they're well worth it. You never know when you might need extras - in case of breakage during shipping, discoloration, ink or foil problems, or last-minute-YES-replies. Plus - don't forget to get a few extra for yourself! You'll definitely want a keepsake or two from the most important day of your life.

These are just SOME of the many things to consider when buying your wedding reception favors. We hope this helps and that your event is even more beautiful than you've imagined it!

Choosing gifts for the wedding party

2008-11-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

This article deals with the solutions of picking the proper gifts for the bridesmaids and ushers in your wedding party.

The day of your wedding is a very special day. Many people help to make it even more special to the bride and groom. Generally, they'll be a rehearsal dinner prior to the wedding. A gift for the ushers and bridesmaids can be given out at that time. This is a way to say "thank you" to them for helping to make your day wonderful. There are lots and lots of choices for gifts. Something that can be personalized is the best choice. It shows you went to the extra trouble of engraving or monogramming and that the gift was really chosen just for that person. There are many gifts to choose from and they are available in every price range. If your wedding is out of town, you will want to choose something that can easily be packed in your lightweight luggage. To begin with, choose the price range you'd like to stay within. Then you can look at the many choices. Some popular items for the ushers are key rings, money clips, wallets, and pens. Cigar items and flasks have been and will always be popular. For the executive types, there are clocks, and desk style pieces. Leather pad holders are also popular and come in an array of different leathers and price ranges.

Because travel is so popular today, there are gifts that stay with that theme. You can choose among many engravable or personalized travel accessories. For the ushers there are leather shave kits, leather grooming cases, or travel duffels. All of these items may be individually personalized with their initials. Another popular choice today is men's watchcases or valets. Valets will hold their change, keys, cell phones, etc., in one place and protect dressers and other surfaces from scratching. There are also the recharging valets that will hold everything while charging your cell phone, ipod, etc. This is a new item that has become extremely well received for ushers. Poker chips has also gained in popularity along with the many different games of poker being played nationally. These can be individually monogrammed on each chip, or the case can be monogrammed with the individual's initials or name.

There's an equally large selection for the bridesmaids. Jewelry boxes are one of the most popular gifts for the women. Jewelry is also popular and it is often given with a trinket box that is monogrammed with the name or initials of the recipient. Many of the same items that are given for the ushers can be given for bridesmaids. Pens, key chains and wallets are popular with women as well as men. Leather jewel rolls for travel are also popular. These gifts last a lifetime, and the occasion can always be remembered fondly. Some of these items, which have been popular as corporate gifts, will work equally as well as wedding attendant gifts. Women, as well as men, also appreciate some of the newer travel alarm clocks made by companies such as Movado. These gifts are elegant as well as practical.

You do not want to leave out the junior ushers and junior bridesmaids. There’s also a ring bearer, flower girl and any speakers who will come up to the podium and say a few words, or a prayer or special poem. A small thank you that is personalized will go a long way to saying your appreciation. Don’t forget the parents of the bride and groom. They have contributed to the success of the party and would love a picture frame or clock engraved with a “thank you” and signed from the new Mr. And Mrs. Last, but not least, do not forget each other. While purchasing for your wedding party it’s nice to remember the main participants – the bride and groom.

In closing I’d like to add that if you don’t choose something personalized try to purchase something different for each person, that too will show you took the time in selecting their gift.

Your speech or toast - Creating original humor

2008-11-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

Original humor is a must for any memorable wedding speech or toast. My friend Bruno from Fine Wedding Speeches gave me permission to reprint this guide for creating it.

Not every wedding speech is filled with puns and one-liners; many speeches succeed by virtue of their sincerity alone.

However everyone at a wedding appreciates a little appropriate light relief, which is why you will find many jokes (as well as sincerity) in your speech package. Each of these speeches will work as-is (except for name changes), but there is nothing at all to be lost in having a go at creating your own original humour to personalise your speech a little.

My schedule for forthcoming articles is as follows:

double meanings (puns)
the rule of three
the creation and use of witty anagrams, plus how to use history to enhance your speech
using rhyme and acronyms
using lateral thinking to search for joke ideas
using mind mapping to generate humour.
I'd like to enlarge just a little on these subjects to whet your appetite prior to a fuller treatment later.

a) Double meanings
- i.e. a play on words. Here is one example:

He's a light eater - as soon as it gets light, he starts eating.

As you can see, this joke uses two alternative meanings of the word light.

b) The Rule of Three
A series of three statements or revelations; the first and second might not be funny, but the third is, and being in a series of 3 magnifies and intensifies the humour value.

I said to James once that you couldn't know whether someone was truly your lifetime sweetheart until you had broken wind in front of them, to gauge their reaction. James went ahead and tried it. Jane didn't mind, but her parents were disgusted. And the vicar was appalled… and so was everyone else at the funeral.

OK, perhaps it's not suitable for a wedding, but you get the idea.

c) Anagrams and history
I will show you a source of anagrams on the internet and give you ideas how to use them.

d) Rhyme and acronyms
I will show you how these can be used to great effect, particularly when directly relevant to the Bride and Groom.

e) Lateral thinking
A very powerful tool which unlocks the creative potential of the mind, and how to use it to create humorous material.

f) Mind mapping
Another mind-blowing thinking tool and how it can be used in conjunction with all the above to open up your mind and produce joke ideas.

And that's all for this month

Bruno Barton

To read more Bruno's full article on each subject visit Fine Wedding Speeches.

The Dreaded Wedding Speech

2008-11-22T15:20:00.000-08:00

In this article I am going to offer a little advice from seeing literally hundreds of wedding speeches over the years. But giving advice is often regarded as a bit overbearing.
Oscar Wilde, a proficient and experienced advice giver, said: "I never give a woman advice. In fact one should never give her anything she can't wear in the evening."
And now a howler from a child's exam paper: "Socrates was a great Greek teacher. He went around giving people advice. They killed him."
Despite the possible perils of following in Socrates' footsteps, I still feel inclined to throw in my two cents worth.
Why Plan?
Some people do ask themselves the question: "Why should I plan my wedding speech?" But some people don't even consider planning until it's too late. Which group would you rather be in?
You may have heard the saying, "Failing to plan is like planning to fail". A truer word has never been said.
You might feel able to "wing it", or you might feel that planning a speech is easy and quick. I have had a staggering number of grooms call me over the years, a week and less before the wedding, who have suddenly realized that they have no idea what to say or how to say it.
Planning a speech is not generally something quick and easy unless you are an expert or have access to one.
When deciding if you are going to plan in advance, consider the following issues:-
1. People do remember the speeches. Even if they don't remember the words used, they will remember if the speeches were good or bad.
2. One very potent reason for planning is that the majority of weddings these days are videoed, and who wants their failures to be immortalized on film? I am reminded of the Irish wedding where the father of the bride's wallet was stolen at the reception. The mystery was solved when the video was processed: the best man was seen nicking it. Obviously things like this won't happen to any honest and conscientious best man, but there is a lesson there to be learned: your performance may be around to haunt you or to support your self esteem for years to come.
3. Get the right sort of help. You wouldn't take on a plumber to fix your TV, or a mechanic to fit a carpet. So if you need help and advice on making a public speech, it must make sense to turn to a professional public speaker. If you can’t afford to pay for professional help think about who you know that has experience in public speaking or someone who gave a speech that you liked.
4. Planning the speeches should be part of planning the wedding. People plan and budget for every aspect of the wedding: the church, the organ, the reception venue, the food, champagne and flowers. Every aspect, that is, apart from the speeches. Often completely inexperienced men (and women) are thrown in front of an audience who are hoping against hope to be interested and entertained. Very often though they are bored, unable to hear or, worst of all, acutely embarrassed, perhaps by the speaker's material or perhaps by a speaker humiliating himself by lack of preparation.
It is a fact that there are a number of pitfalls lying in wait for the wedding speaker, like snakes in the grass, each with their own collection of snakebites. Mostly they arise from the rattlesnake of lack of knowledge:
· Snakebite 1: What must I include?
· Snakebite 2: How do I say it?
· Snakebite 3: When do I say it?
· Snakebite 4: How long should I speak for?
· Snakebite 5: What else do I have to do?
· Snakebite 6: How formal / informal should I be?
Of course one of the most deadly snakes is the wriggling, slithering anaconda of speech content. Among its snakebites are:
· Snakebite 7: Is it interesting?
· Snakebite 8: Is it snappy?
· Snakebite 9: Is it light, without being too frivolous?
· Snakebite 10: Is it clean?
· Snakebite 11: Is it appropriate?

I have a lot of notes and information on speeches that I’ve collected over the years, I’ll get them in order and typed up for a later blog.

Spring 2009 Weddings

2008-11-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

If you're throwing a Spring 2009 wedding event - or are planning on attending one - learning about the season's top wedding trends can make the event even more unforgettable. Wedding trends for Spring 2009 capture some of the season's fresh designer trends from the runways, and the year calls for a mix of classic styles and modern designs.
From Grecian-inspired gowns for the bride to flapper dresses for the bridesmaids, here are some of the best Spring 2009 wedding trends to plan for:
Wedding Trend for Spring 2009: Black Flowers and Accessories
Black wedding dresses were a top trend in 2007, and black reigns on with black accessories for 2009. Pick up black roses or rosettes, black table linens and black and white color combinations for a sophisticated and modern look. Our white Love Theme Toasting flutes would be an excellent choice with this them, and they're a great value too!
Wedding Trend for Spring 2009: Pink Flapper Dresses
Pink is a top choice for color this Spring 2009, so deck out the bridesmaids in classic, pastel or shocking pink for a modern twist to basic cream and white. Flapper-inspired dresses with their fitted, mid-calf length style get a fresh look in innocent pink. Add our Pink Pearl or Hot Pink Daisy Hair Spirals for a truly stunning look!
Wedding Trend for Spring 2009: Red-Trimmed Wedding Gowns
Red is a bold and vibrant addition to the usual pastels and classic white ensembles for Spring weddings, and you'll find it trimming wedding gowns and bridesemaid dresses this season. The red and white combination adds a twist of modern romance to any Spring wedding. Browse our Guest Books to find that perfect match!
Wedding Trend for Spring 2009: The Mini Wedding Dress
Super-short wedding dresses are a fresh trend for Spring 2009, giving you every excuse to show off those legs this season. Pair this look with ankle-tied sandals and a fabulous rhinestone headband or comb for a chic, dramatic look this wedding season.

The Guest List

2008-11-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

Making the guest list is easy right? All you need to do is write down the names of all your closest friends and relatives and thats it! NOT - if it is that simple for you count your blessings now. For the rest of us here is some advice on how to handle the what can be "tricky" situations with who we invite to our wedding.

1st of all consider the style of your wedding - if you want an intimate garden wedding it wouldn't be practical to invite 250 guests. Alternatively if your wedding is in a grand ballroom 50 guests would look pretty sparse.

OK, now lets get started making that list.
**Both of you make a list of your immediate family members and the attendants on your side of the wedding party. (Yes, always send an invitation to the attendants). Next will be the officiant and his/her spouse. (Including the officiant is not a must if you simply can't squeeze anyone else in but if you can the gesture will certainly be appreciated.)
**Now add your mutual friends to the list.
**Next comes your work colleagues, children, significant others and any other optional guests.
**This part is very important, you should have a "wish list" of guests they would like to see at the wedding from mom and dad on both sides. This is where it can get sticky - if mom and dad are helping to pay for any of the wedding it's not appropriate to accept their money but refuse their input on the guest list. If they are not and you can't afford to have all those distant relatives or their freinds you've never met simply tell them you would love to have them but simply can't afford it. They will do one of two things.. Happily offer to help pay for additional guests or pare it down realizing they don't feel as strongly as thought about inviting them.

Also the guest list does not have to be split even between the bride and groom. Very seldom do 2 people get married that have the exact same size family. And it really doesn't matter who has more guests, what matters is you are both surrounded by the people you love and want to share this truly special day with.Now it's time to review it and make adjustments as needed. Is your list bigger than you thought it would be? Who knew we had so many friends and relatives lol.

The excitement of doing our guest list sometimes gets the better of us and we feel far friendlier towards old college pals and people we haven't thought about in a long time. So here are some guidelines for cutting back on the list...

1. It should go without saying that all members of the wedding party should be on the list and should all receive and invitation. Traditional wedding etiquette also states that members of the wedding party should be allowed to bring a spouse or significant other. If your budget is really really tight you can bypass it but I would keep it in mind in case you have room after editing the list. (But make sure there is room for all to bring a guest or none)
2. All immediate family members should be on this list.
3. Anyone that attended the wedding shower should be included.
4. When making cuts be sure its categorical (Example: If second cousins aren't being invited then all second cousins should be omitted) Cuts should be treated equally to avoid hard feelings.

An option you may consider is to have an A list and a B list. To do this though invitations need to be sent out early enough that RSVP's can be returned and you still have enough time to send out invitations to you B list.
Beware - you probably don't want your B list guests to find out they are B list guests. This can lead to hurt feelings and declines.

One last note - don't forget to add the bride and groom to the list in the final headcount! You would be surprised how many couples forget to add 2 more people when dealing with vendors - themselves!

Wedding Speech or toast

2008-11-22T13:21:00.000-08:00

Making a wedding speech can be a very stressful event for those asked to make one. Delivering the perfect wedding speech is a challenging responsibility but an important one.
A dilemma commonly faced by a wedding speeches and wedding toast giver is whether to crack jokes or to keep the speech safe and serious. In order to deliver a good speech, one must decide on the topic that they wish to talk about and then prepare in advance for it. Remember, your speech must be able to capture and keep the interest of the wedding guests at all times.
Generally, the order of wedding speeches is as follows: giver-away of the bride, the groom and then the groomsman. In the giver-away of the bride speech, the father will talk about the bride, praise her, and tell stories of her childhood. He will also welcome the groom to the family, welcome the guests to the wedding, and purpose a toast.
Many wedding speeches made by the groom will mention his new mother-in-law and he may extend his thanks for a job well done in bringing up her daughter. Generally the groom's speech will be made on behalf of his new wife including himself. If he knows what is good for him he will praise her to the highest!
Next, in the groom's speech he should thank the bridesmaids for performing their duties. It then falls to the groomsman to reply on behalf of the bridesmaid in his speech. The groomsman's speech is usually directed at the groom, and is carried out in a funny and light-hearted way.
Wedding speeches and wedding toasts are completely different in nature. A wedding toast is not of the same duration as a wedding speech and is usually delivered by the groomsman. The groomsman will only have to say a few short words. The right time to give a toast depends on the wedding traditions and etiquette since it varies based on whether the wedding is a very formal or informal occasion.
An example of a wedding toast is the champagne toast when the bubbly is popped and all the guests have been served with the champagne. If the groomsman has something to say then he will have his say, raise his glass and drink to the toast. The toast must be kept short yet substantial.
Irish wedding toasts are becoming more popular. An example of a great Irish wedding toast is: "May the light of friendship guide your paths together, may the laughter of children grace the halls of your home, and may the joy of living for one another trip a smile from your lips, a twinkle from your eye."
There are services now that will write a custom speech for you. Our favorite is Fine Speeches. They have all positive reviews and also provide free help.

Should you hire a wedding planner?

2008-11-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

in one word - YESSSSSSSSS. There is a myth floating around that has people believing that all Wedding Planners are not affordable for working-class individuals. A long time ago, only the elite society knew of and had access to Wedding Planners.
Today, Wedding Planners are very common and are hired by celebrities as well as everyday working people. Naturally, Wedding Planners that work with the rich and famous can and do charge through the nose for their services because the clients are able to afford the high-end prices. Misconceptions about Wedding Planners being pricey, comes from wedding shows that air on reality television. The truth is a bride and groom will save more money when working with a Wedding Planner because planners are trained to work within any budget and negotiate with vendors. Whether you are wealthy or not wealthy at all, Wedding Planners are a smart choice when it comes time to plan your special day.
Wedding planners will alleviate stress from the husband and wife-to be, at any stage of the planning process. Many brides and grooms begin to plan their wedding on their own or with the help of family and friends. Before all vendors are even contacted, couples find that they have exceeded their budget. Between running out of money before the big day happens and their loved-ones stressing them out about what they should or should not do for the wedding, brides and grooms are at their wits-end. Once the happy couple contacts a planner, a common practice is to meet for a consultation, which is usually complimentary. At the meeting, wishes, dreams and ideas are expressed to the Wedding Planner who will then create a magical and memorable event complete with dazzling colors and amazing centerpieces. Planners are known for building relationships with reputable caterers, bakers, deejays, hotels, florists, limousines and any other service that the bride and groom desire. Vendor relationships are the key because the planner is then able to negotiate prices as well as make sure that contracts are in order, valuable lessons that are taught in courses geared towards Wedding Planners. During the wedding rehearsal and on the wedding day, planners will be present so that all runs smoothly. This allows the bride, groom and their attendees to relax and enjoy the festivities. That luxury alone is priceless!In closing I'd like to add that after doing my own wedding the one thing that I would change is that I would have hired someone for at least the wedding day so I could have spent more time enjoying the day and my guests rather than making sure things were running smoothly. With all the competition on wedding consultants out there hiring one for the day of service has become very reasonable.