tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58574395189621882872024-03-13T18:41:17.908-06:00Tidbits every Bride should know...Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-69357690423865330272010-08-10T18:02:00.002-06:002010-08-10T13:48:23.582-06:00Cake Toppers & Dessert Buffets... I'll take one of each, please.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0WV57R82VczzeyF5W5TdII5mg_2bV0jbsSDQgKikCcwNHECBG2sWe_KZD3MKsKp6hVwGsM0SKB8wsmrr192toXDTAw1s0jqIRM48R9ms2bwY4hTvLkh98GIGqnSyGvppi3zxfCP5STY/s1600/amy-adams-candy-bar.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0WV57R82VczzeyF5W5TdII5mg_2bV0jbsSDQgKikCcwNHECBG2sWe_KZD3MKsKp6hVwGsM0SKB8wsmrr192toXDTAw1s0jqIRM48R9ms2bwY4hTvLkh98GIGqnSyGvppi3zxfCP5STY/s400/amy-adams-candy-bar.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503870110965545746" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" 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id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503858411111559570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRmpI1eP8B15m6rXTzHlFvC1tGNB66DB3YAnpTkTv844zs_MVZo-vKJLZyZ262zJi1mGCxGFIP3FrhQ5aJgmT9rg4yT6lbwa7p3jvnTZqzu5WzIXlSoLqac1HaScV3oH_rL0AgSJLdqc/s1600/013227.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRmpI1eP8B15m6rXTzHlFvC1tGNB66DB3YAnpTkTv844zs_MVZo-vKJLZyZ262zJi1mGCxGFIP3FrhQ5aJgmT9rg4yT6lbwa7p3jvnTZqzu5WzIXlSoLqac1HaScV3oH_rL0AgSJLdqc/s400/013227.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503858406197666322" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQU3aAxlcsy8F9Bttzlif1njSGcxPnrDmt4hciwkM4sF3Ry_wqv_B1Mt2L9vjnAcu4ZP4z1LLH8QoLjwCeOl8pCQ1gZOhMZrmcB_In0ELb56LJ184wrQNCZFqhBSnd75fyK5W2CQmnAI/s1600/013227.jpg"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOtt9Th-Plds79NV1LxW4p9NLzm4HQAStpuSQX1HFHalIgcDyPhN4Q5KQGBrAIxa5IyKtkLZWwq3Pb6ZfN444dfgynEkG8uB4Gujf-mBPmlElavaj3YplfJi4G6leuwoVFlurgKopj-Y/s1600/il_430xN.141880067.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOtt9Th-Plds79NV1LxW4p9NLzm4HQAStpuSQX1HFHalIgcDyPhN4Q5KQGBrAIxa5IyKtkLZWwq3Pb6ZfN444dfgynEkG8uB4Gujf-mBPmlElavaj3YplfJi4G6leuwoVFlurgKopj-Y/s320/il_430xN.141880067.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475733623255645842" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br />There are so many fun ways to spruce up your wedding cake, but cake toppers unfortunately become an afterthought to many couples. Cake toppers can be your monogram, they can be flowers from the florist, or flowers done by the cake creator, they can be the traditional bride & groom sculpture... there are a lot of beautiful and unique ways to top your cake. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Many brides and grooms are also starting to enjoy the idea of a smaller wedding cake supplemented by other desserts, such as cupcakes. Not only does it make it quicker and easier for guests to get their dessert, but it also adds a fun aesthetic to the wedding. Couples can show off their color theme or personalities with how they display the dessert table. The idea of a "midnight snack" is not new to the wedding world-it is memorable to send your guests off at the end of the night with a little chinese food carton of goodies they have selected themselves. No matter how you offer these yummy treats to your guests, everyone likes to indulge their sweet tooth every now and then!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Here are some awesome websites I have found while surfing around online, plus Brides Magazine suggests some fun ideas, too:<br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lollipopworkshop"></a></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lollipopworkshop" style="text-decoration: none;">http://www.etsy.com/shop/lollipopworkshop</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50812093/wedding-cake-topper-paper-sculpture">Concarta.etsy.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> (paper figurines you can customize hair/skin/dress & tie colors etc)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/peachandpearl">PeachandPearl.etsy.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> (Tiny flags you can customize to say your name or "Just Married" a very easy DIY project too if you want to save some $$$)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.justcaketoppers.com/Wedding_Cake_Toppers.html">JustCakeToppers.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> Extensive options: Cultural symbols, (Chinese, Celtic), Precious Moments figurines, Gay and Lesbian cake toppers, castles, animals, religious icons, sports... LOTS to choose from!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/bunnywithatoolbelt/WeddingCakeToppersByBunnyWithAToolbelt?feat=directlink#">BunnyWithAToolBelt.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> SO CUTE, you just have to look at her work</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.decoratingstudio.com/">DecoratingStudio.com</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.sculpturedglass.com/">Sculpturedglass.com</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ranunculusmarket">Ranunculusmarket.etsy.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> As she says on he</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">r site, "Your </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">spot for finding all things paper and floral, all things made of tulle for dancing in" </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shellscapes">ShellScapes.etsy.com</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> Beach-oriented themes</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">*<a href="http://en.origami-club.com/">Origami</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Lastly... One of my favs because my mother is an artist... (if you have a sentimental or personal connection to someone who can do something similar, I would go with them... but if you do not know someone of that nature, check out this site): </span></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluebutterflydesign"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">bluebutterflydesign.etsy.com</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> Robert Indiana's "Love" sculpture, among other options</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ranunculusmarket"></a></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">This is a great resource for information on different types of cake toppers and what materials are used in their construction:</span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.thatsmytopper.com/category/010232.shtml"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">http://www.thatsmytopper.com/category/010232.shtml</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-25803852665051675212010-07-15T15:51:00.003-06:002010-08-10T15:57:49.490-06:00Southern Colorado Ranch Wedding-- Elizabeth & Christopher<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHhTFumbZm9wAo-kfAeAQFgfdCSTCL5HV5nqTZziY3PJOUGNmkHjdSZwXNBRZRpRMXhBNSxFWwQVckxJTlBHgmBS4oHJMcyjVqsRoycoPt23aeAgeWOYBESZoO9qeb8r2H3ymwC94lI8/s1600/34568_414899613047_228915658047_4510220_4262122_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCzioTNuPa1BEmKgXfW09z-deVHhWSv-eMGxczuPUsipigXfpn6FvC94hWTpnBJOk8kv3esbBDLWbDMx0SLTo0CLIAIX1H9OsMjiz0Pdm6zRbZyb2O9SeSumHN94jTDsf7YkWgvvF_6Y/s400/36900_414900738047_228915658047_4510287_4707333_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503902754777797618" /></a>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-39726095945313842302010-06-19T14:55:00.004-06:002010-08-10T15:08:44.234-06:00Hacienda vows-- Teresa & Thad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PUGmVseCdv81aCT2j2OjYCF2RJRisApwoU3c9veHHkPSpinUbEzhiOZk3-q13TaFnEg-VXTk9x5jfGpDnNowYP4au-S2o5RVCQ5MBP7S6tvYu-asJrpPXSITAPyGXWOtTOWOxU0dn-o/s1600/29234_405450673047_228915658047_4270380_2478671_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGjYSsS-bZmESZJ2ElzL5BHP7Nl3gCLpvLZhKVKwgWKcv9IXkZwjORN_Z83oNbU5Dj19cvh21w_fX9oThET5s1stx3zsE_Bx7Mu6IDmPsQwfC-S1wHYwr5yP5yxvX7UPDvyuuEaWyJfiM/s400/29234_405450808047_228915658047_4270404_2357555_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503890388264460002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccKdHe9gjOoXBLENiRYw4Y0Y4ZYYbinmWF1a4Og49wW2ndFOdKeZQtQ4HSpm8gY7Y0BiFTRhH3kgJCJEjrRJ3jZ7hHiYDMC1i-LZW2UpMXd5EcYJZYmUiC-ZponAHOoj7Yi-C3y8sWDc/s1600/29234_405451538047_228915658047_4270447_5896712_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccKdHe9gjOoXBLENiRYw4Y0Y4ZYYbinmWF1a4Og49wW2ndFOdKeZQtQ4HSpm8gY7Y0BiFTRhH3kgJCJEjrRJ3jZ7hHiYDMC1i-LZW2UpMXd5EcYJZYmUiC-ZponAHOoj7Yi-C3y8sWDc/s400/29234_405451538047_228915658047_4270447_5896712_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503890377293719026" /></a>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-11022776458043706142010-06-14T18:39:00.000-06:002010-08-10T15:38:35.224-06:00Alternate Registry options<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What should you do when you and your fiance have pretty much everything you need or want? If you know you are going to inherit your Grandmother's china later in life, and don't want to register for your own china, flatware, stemware etc... here are some fun alternatives that engaged couples don't realize are totally kosher to do nowadays:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Furniture</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Your wedding guests can contribute a dollar amount or go in on a love-seat together for your wedding gift! Many local furniture retailers allow people to buy gift cards from their store, or they even have the Wedding Registry option. One example is </span></span><a href="http://www.afwonline.com/registry.asp"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">American Furniture Warehous</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">e in the West. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Honeymoon Registries*</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Guests can pay for part of your flight or a morning massage... Here are some great resources:</span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.honeyfund.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Honeyfund.com</span></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.travelersjoy.com/?gclid=COjYlonrr6MCFUlS2godTlG15A"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">TravelersJoy.com</span></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.honeymoonwishes.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Honeymoonwishes.com</span></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.thebigday.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thebigday.com</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Education Registries*</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Just like it sounds, you can give your wedding guests the option to help out with something everyone dreads, tuition costs and student loans!</span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.educationregistry.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Educationregistry.com</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Cash Registries* </span></span></b><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is a Registry for "wishes not things"</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></b><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.uponourstar.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">UponourStar</span></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Charity Registries*</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is a fun option, if you and your fiance really do not want anything at all, you can inform your guests about charities they can donate to in leu of a traditional wedding gift.</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></b></div><div><a href="http://www.heifer.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My PERSONAL favorite: Heifer International </span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> They have the "pay it forward" idea, where you can donate a cow, chicken, or other livestock to families in developing countries. This livestock teaches the underprivileged families how to maintain their livelihoods and continue the charity by giving to another family when a baby cow or chicken is born. Not only does this work towards preventing world hunger and encouraging world peace, it also literally builds communities based on morals and traits people always talk about, but don't usually demonstrate.</span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.Justgive.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">JustGive</span></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.idofoundation.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">IDoFoundation</span></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.changingthepresent.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">ChangingthePresent</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-28191371788006754732010-06-09T16:10:00.005-06:002010-08-10T15:09:57.808-06:00Outdoor Garden love -- Maria & Alan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooFvVL3HqVYK0nX1XRJX68NAlL3HcoJCkA57ewZP3bzviD_zftvLM6f8MAkNyfkGsqoD__1lVinv-TybB3PbAqcMJCOsrMk7zGSQrVPGuo2rZQ-1QN4zU90d2wIwTTIlc20uQQAWfRSU/s1600/DSCN0445.JPG"><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybFRMjeosHOFTN_reqLckYmcplvLxo5sqh-8BruaG82S45IQnkc7g6lUdXw2_BQba1aHTO5zhJYFlmlYYC7jP6iKTdG9ze085mitw8uxxa_YmNmiRPkSD6vhPSeJarCuVmpbOKPNjpGE/s320/DSCN0339.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480902197300504818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRazgcYZAqrOT2J29DrMyPvGuWm1h4RSaKuznPkBgmO1W5XRJP6mD2714PnDNmHmiM3ljR67kZB-iRio1hNXihQMNA1e5tjqr1zH0_1F0PWkOfkBIQ1awHPJrTfZAtKY6nsLAXnVBDOdY/s1600/DSCN0321.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRazgcYZAqrOT2J29DrMyPvGuWm1h4RSaKuznPkBgmO1W5XRJP6mD2714PnDNmHmiM3ljR67kZB-iRio1hNXihQMNA1e5tjqr1zH0_1F0PWkOfkBIQ1awHPJrTfZAtKY6nsLAXnVBDOdY/s320/DSCN0321.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480902185728620994" /></a>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-62142751680909232162010-05-26T13:06:00.004-06:002010-05-26T13:08:28.969-06:00Are men really from Mars?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzkMigM7OVXwMPeR1XI_wrKdDCKE-SNXcZCvbMvZ0r5-rhSOP8KLe8fhbEm4EfPoT4EUE1hhjrmvoAl2MZX3o84Uxypg22E4SL2CGnGNudoCMeSKV2ax2tZV_waf37kAZW6C56KC1vhk/s1600/groom_left_confused.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzkMigM7OVXwMPeR1XI_wrKdDCKE-SNXcZCvbMvZ0r5-rhSOP8KLe8fhbEm4EfPoT4EUE1hhjrmvoAl2MZX3o84Uxypg22E4SL2CGnGNudoCMeSKV2ax2tZV_waf37kAZW6C56KC1vhk/s320/groom_left_confused.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475657330597585522" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Here is a news-flash! Weddings aren't all about the bride...... GASP! WHAT!? BLASPHEMY! Yes, I apologize if I have offended anyone, but spoiler-alert: there are two people getting married up there at the alter, two people exchanging, "I do's", two people committing to spending the rest of their lives together, two people vowing to love and honor each other... you get the point. It takes two to tango! </span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">So, here is what you need to know: everyone goes through a learning process. We women were taught by the lovely Disney Princesses and modern culture from a young age about marriage and weddings, (more specifically--- weddings, perfect prince charming, and happily ever afters--- but that is opening a can of worms for another day). As young girls we played house and media/culture/other sources ingrained in us the importance of YOUR wedding day. Young girls grow into teenagers, who grow into college gals, who grow into bridesmaids, who grow into brides, who grow into mothers of the bride or groom, etc... it is a perpetual wedding cycle. Every stage of a woman's life can potentially have wedding-mania experiences. Ok, so what? We're women and we're involved in weddings, what does this have to do with my fiance? </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Well, boys and men alike can be very conflicted or confused when it comes to weddings, especially their own. Maybe you made your brother play the groom at your childhood wedding in the backyard, but males experiences with weddings and marriage knowledge are much more limited as compared to females. Of course, there are exceptions to every generalization, please understand there are many men out there in the world who are wedding gurus and could dominate women in any type of wedding competition... but if your fiance is not a member of the wedding-obsessed entourages, don't be surprised. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">You and your fiance may even find yourselves arguing more than usual over petty or unknown causes during your engagement. Why? Because of stress. You may be stressed out because of the planning process and you feel your fiance is not involved enough, or does not appreciate all of the effort you are putting into making your wedding day fabulous. He may be stressed out because he doesn't understand how the reception venue can charge such an expensive cake-cutting fee, or why he has to spend a Saturday afternoon talking about table linens and floral centerpieces. Communication is key here, (as with everything in life!!), take time to talk to him about why x,y, and z are important to you. While you're "communicating" with him about what you have always wanted your wedding to be like, make sure to also LISTEN to his responses and consider his perspective as well. Just spending five minutes talking about your vendors or your families roles in the wedding can alleviate confusion or stress that you and your fiance may not even be aware is building under the surface. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Real life example:</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"> One of my brides called me, late one night crying. Her fiance had called off the wedding. He could not give any reason other than it was stressing him out and he couldn't do it. He didn't get why they needed to put on a big show for everyone. He wanted to just go to the Courthouse and be legally done with it. After much discussion and advice, my bride calmed down and told me she would call me in the morning. The next day I received a call from a much happier bride. The couple had stayed up talking most of the night. She said they started off angry and resentful towards one another because they were both stressed out... but as they took turns describing the traditions that were important to their families, they realized he had never been a part of a wedding, and she had taken part in many weddings. They came from two very different ends of the spectrum in terms of their opinions on the importance of wedding traditions. The bride explained to her fiance that the wedding wasn't a travesty to prance around in front of their guests, the wedding to her was a celebration of their love and commitment to each other. When her fiance realized the importance of the event, he said he would participate, but they needed to compromise on certain things. He did not want to not get married, he just wanted to be married without all the stress of the wedding he was feeling. Once they got on the same page, everything was copasetic. </span></span></span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Maybe people think men are from Mars and women are from Venus because they have given up trying to make the two genders get along 100% of the time. Here is another news-flash: no one gets along 100% of the time. Boys and girls have different experiences growing up, SOME OF THE TIME, but that does not make us totally alien to one another. Men and women can talk about their childhoods and learn a lot from each other. Having open and consistent communication throughout the wedding planning process will only help you and your fiance to start off on the right foot for an open and honest marriage. Discuss what is important to you and listen to what is important to him, and you will be two happy peas in a pod! </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-49666624203456669422010-05-26T11:26:00.011-06:002010-05-26T12:18:14.540-06:00Just Breathe!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2QxyxVIpK-bi6iMyIEZcmLjkplIIqwzLy6DBzEw_iBss_vMtIC0W25XpizQ5YpD2uGp5mgF0R_6w-4TO6Nm8aAY3-Em9gLDcSMhuR2y8ZJX2CAxf33hvVja-cY30dQpWg84rjulf2gw/s1600/Angry-Bride.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2QxyxVIpK-bi6iMyIEZcmLjkplIIqwzLy6DBzEw_iBss_vMtIC0W25XpizQ5YpD2uGp5mgF0R_6w-4TO6Nm8aAY3-Em9gLDcSMhuR2y8ZJX2CAxf33hvVja-cY30dQpWg84rjulf2gw/s320/Angry-Bride.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475644388599046546" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66rhyphenhyphenDDBpM_bFFrF3bji4qyVcbjXejtb4DhwR0GJ_BZzSJBKfIYW7cNyRAKm-wuTlWsNLMc7bCfF5IPkpcAAPqyNYJMb5flqZ41DLHEiSNbMmzvbUFvIoju0q1WInT767bjVBPcxEVSI/s1600/now-panic.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66rhyphenhyphenDDBpM_bFFrF3bji4qyVcbjXejtb4DhwR0GJ_BZzSJBKfIYW7cNyRAKm-wuTlWsNLMc7bCfF5IPkpcAAPqyNYJMb5flqZ41DLHEiSNbMmzvbUFvIoju0q1WInT767bjVBPcxEVSI/s320/now-panic.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475635222406118242" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(57, 57, 57); line-height: 18px; font-family:Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><div class="post hentry" style="position: relative; "><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; 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position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I just heard this great story about a maid of honor who left her </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">special wedding day shoes on the shuttle from the salon to the </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">church. When the maid of honor realized what had happened </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">she confessed to the bride, "I left my shoes on the shuttle..." </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Supposedly, the bridesmaids were terrified of how the bride was </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">going to react. Nothing had gone majorly wrong all day, even </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">though weddings can be thought of as nerve-wracking, this </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">bride had remained calm throughout the minor bumps of the </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">day thus far... so everyone was expecting her to freak out. </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This was supposed to be the straw that broke the camels back.</span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The bride replied, "Ok, well you can wear my ceremony shoes </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and I'll put on my reception shoes early." </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The bridesmaids were in a state of shock and haze of confusion </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">with how smoothly the transition took place. No one thought to</span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">look at it from the bride's perspective; how happy she was to get </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">out of her uncomfortable ceremony shoes and into her comfy </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">dancing shoes. Just a minor speed bump in the grand scheme of </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">things... the pictures weren't ruined by a shoeless maid of honor </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and no one even realized the bride's shoes did not match her </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">bridesmaids because her wedding dress was long enough to cover </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">the comfortable dancing shoes. It is humorous how often these </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">types of situations happen during the course of wedding festivities </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and brides handle the 'emergency' with perfect composure.</span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">At my own wedding, a similar scenario kept repeating itself: </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">tardiness. I am usually not the most punctual person anyways, </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">but when it is your wedding weekend you put in a little more </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">effort to be on time. The unforeseen factors are really what </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">contributed to consistent lateness: a bridesmaid not having </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">shoes that matched her outfit for the rehearsal dinner, being </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">from out of town and not knowing the 'rush-hour' traffic to </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">avoid, worrying about my out-of-town relatives getting lost, etc. </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After five phone calls and an unlimited number of text messages </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">from my family, in-laws and fiance, (who were already at the </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">church waiting for us), about how late my bridesmaids and I </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">were to the rehearsal ceremony, I realized my knuckles where </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">white because I was gripping my cell phone so tightly. Even </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">though I was not freaking out on the outside, internally I was </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">a little stressed out. One of my bridesmaids sitting next to me </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">must have felt the stress vibe resonating from my direction </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">because she asked sternly, "Are you alright?" </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I was alright, and looking back at the wedding weekend, </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">running late to things is not something that sticks out on the </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">importance list. Weddings aren't perfect, and things might not </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">go exactly as they are planned. The important thing is to breathe </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">so you can think clearly and come to a resolution; negativity </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and freaking out only make bad situations worse. </span></span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />So, as with most wedding tales, the moral of the stories </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">can be applied to everyday life as well: being calm is way </span></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="width: 566px; position: relative; line-height: 1.4; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">more beneficial than freaking out. </span></span></span><br /></span></div></div></span>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-91913550775256963292010-04-14T17:20:00.006-06:002010-04-14T18:24:36.536-06:00How-to: Not go on a million pointless Venue tours<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYCq_8GJh8UteZZozqBZoB5GMviQGvfHgALtNidQkDykTljGYBSlLEaTkM810qeRCnweTVEw4p_wGHmsLW_hdxmnm3_7VkymclYbfhq1OKV5lvkVPNHPV_jPy8vxmVfjVzVqgu4XG3oI/s1600/bologna_maggiore.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYCq_8GJh8UteZZozqBZoB5GMviQGvfHgALtNidQkDykTljGYBSlLEaTkM810qeRCnweTVEw4p_wGHmsLW_hdxmnm3_7VkymclYbfhq1OKV5lvkVPNHPV_jPy8vxmVfjVzVqgu4XG3oI/s320/bologna_maggiore.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460152076161674802" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUc4JhxnoMyZIPHySQOxy12O_jjMtAFtIEtlI663Vtc4Her3xJEvee3l7QSsX9RZFgZUOa4v949xtwDwqOhMsbQa1njvY8s6ud5q-WO62XjVy0R0MQpHnSEz1gJgVtNxv94VcSW0FyxQ/s1600/gallery_rooms2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 245px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUc4JhxnoMyZIPHySQOxy12O_jjMtAFtIEtlI663Vtc4Her3xJEvee3l7QSsX9RZFgZUOa4v949xtwDwqOhMsbQa1njvY8s6ud5q-WO62XjVy0R0MQpHnSEz1gJgVtNxv94VcSW0FyxQ/s320/gallery_rooms2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460152074347984578" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RVGORTnIdAPUSJI1ergYg3VGzJTwKu45aW62HY8xieJ7yrfiNIh30aZy29XyYYX6KVj9jikODbsuG0-xLlE5GeyKmpL36MpY4f4ChgrScQmHaSbiOnY0YI26FNpYSL377NLKqlWj6gw/s1600/gallery_rooms5.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RVGORTnIdAPUSJI1ergYg3VGzJTwKu45aW62HY8xieJ7yrfiNIh30aZy29XyYYX6KVj9jikODbsuG0-xLlE5GeyKmpL36MpY4f4ChgrScQmHaSbiOnY0YI26FNpYSL377NLKqlWj6gw/s320/gallery_rooms5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460152063407612482" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">One thing I have done many a time in my career as a Wedding Planner so far is Venue tours. Venue tours can be really fun, but really exhausting if you're going to the wrong places, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">time after tim</span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">e</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">, (Cyndi Lauper, anyone?). It is really important to have at least a couple things nailed down <b>before</b> scheduling venue tours. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>1) Date</b>. Make sure you have decided on your wedding date, because that is how venues book weddings, based on the date. Especially if you're a numbers person and love the idea of being married on 10/10/10, (which I will tell you right now, no where is open for that date anymore). If you're patient and can wait until next year, or even 2012, then you have 11/11/11 and 12/12/12 for fun wedding dates. But the point is, many places book up to a year in advance depending on popularity or demand for the date or venue. So knowing what day you want to be married on is very important. If you're flexible with the wedding date, make sure your Wedding Planner or at least the venue coordinator is aware of this.<br /></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>2) Budget</b>. This one is simple. If you have a disposable income, awesome, we're all jealous. But, if you're like most Americans and need to keep an eye on what you're spending with the wedding, know this general number before scheduling venue tours. Knowing a budget for what you would like to spend on the Ceremony and Reception venue is very important because it can allow you to not waste your time on places you can't afford. Everyone is different, some people want the dazzling ballroom at the expensive hotel downtown; but some people are fine with having a secluded backyard wedding, (free from most relatives!). Always call and ask the Venue coordinator for any pricing packages or at least venue fees that they can provide over the phone or via email BEFORE you schedule a Venue tour. The last thing you want to do is waste a month of Sundays touring venues, only to realize they are overpriced and not willing to negotiate. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>3) Food needs.</b> This is a biggie. Many Reception Venues do not allow outside caterers when they have their own on-site catering. Find this out before you book your Venue tour. If they do not have their own catering staff, or they do allow outside caterers, ask them if they have a preferred vendor list of caterers that has worked with them in the past, successfully. A preferred vendor list is always good to look at, especially if you don't have a specific caterer in mind yet. If a catering company has already done weddings or events at the venue you are interviewing, they will know their way around the kitchen so to speak. It is important to get references from past clients to make sure the caterers, (even if they are the on-site catering staff), have pleased clients in the past. It is always nice to know that a vendor has good customer services before you hire them. If that caterer has had a problem arise in the past, how did they handle it? Besides all of these catering questions, don't forget about food allergies and other special needs. Do you want a kosher meal? Vegetarian? Gluten free? A specific recipe from your grandmother? Indian/Chinese/Mexican dishes? Generally, most venues are willing to work with clients if they need to customize certain aspects of the menu due to food restrictions/requests such as these. If a venue is increasing their prices too gingerly based on your needs, look at other places. There are always other venues that will try to work with you on your budget and food needs, just to get your business. They should be trying to please you, not the other way around, don't forget that!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Liquor licenses are another topic that generally goes hand in hand with the catering and food questions. Usually, venues won't allow you to bring in your own alcohol, (some do though, so always ask), if they cannot allow outside beverages it is generally because of liability issues and liquor laws. If they won't allow you to bring in your favorite bottles of wine, you can always request they purchase that wine themselves for your wedding and serve it. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>4) Ballpark number of guest list.</b> If you're planning an intimate gathering of 40 close friends and family for your wedding, you don't want to reserve your city's professional NFL football stadium for your Reception party. On the other side of the spectrum, if you're having 500 people attend your Reception, you don't want to try to squish them all into an intimate Art Gallery where no one will be able to move around or enjoy themselves. Think realistically about the number of guests you are going to invite. Anywhere between 20-60% of guests who are invited to weddings do not attend, (for various reasons, either unable to travel, have a prior engagement etc). When scheduling Venue Tours, tell the Coordinator how many people you are INVITING to your wedding, to help determine what types of Reception areas to look at. Generally, about 2 weeks before your event, the Venue, (and the catering staff), will request a final head count. That is why it is important to have your guests RSVP at least 3 weeks before your wedding-this way you can draw up your seating chart and the venue can have the correct number of chairs available in time for your event.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>5) Any special needs that should be m</b><b>et</b>. Are any of your guests in wheelchairs or needing handicap accessible entries? Do you need a sectioned off area of the Reception room where children can be watched by a professional babysitter during the party? (They have people who offer this service, it is great!) Does your religion or cultural traditions require special activities during the wedding? Write up a list of anything you can think of that is important to you so that you can ask about these issues during the Venue tours.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;">Many Venues will have a folder or packet for you of standardized information when you come for a tour, but if you're not pleased with their customer service, don't waste your time! Whatever your wants or needs are for your wedding day, you deserve to have them met.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-45610206360406694472010-03-15T11:26:00.007-06:002010-03-15T14:34:55.923-06:00St. Patrick's Day Themes for Parties<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" 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src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguo_yKpLl2MiLb968a3ky9f-OL0Cchl8NvIUfbAPLY_htR9xRFnR7td0EZc_ftxBX-vJxHZAANPqgY8wp3Mb4diVLNVY6ake3VgUS0dJzaehp90SVUlirrG5CbkMhqWJ3I8L-jmzpQCNA/s320/B5A8A608D8A74DB585D312C0BC446F03.ashx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448954773010951314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGxdEhangLZgYM1Y6ZQo6KCsJ4uSiZbBeJghLt9DSHhH96IZ5lf73DHTgX6B3fD6oL_79QbFOAzmJbXl0eLMS3dLwUHGn9-Za6quW2scUFyoIeDNKa25h20pv6vt3QC2APXfBoUtZSHo/s1600-h/282BDEA9AB0145668D42E72B9229977E.ashx.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGxdEhangLZgYM1Y6ZQo6KCsJ4uSiZbBeJghLt9DSHhH96IZ5lf73DHTgX6B3fD6oL_79QbFOAzmJbXl0eLMS3dLwUHGn9-Za6quW2scUFyoIeDNKa25h20pv6vt3QC2APXfBoUtZSHo/s320/282BDEA9AB0145668D42E72B9229977E.ashx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448954765517226098" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I graduated from the beautiful Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Many people think Miami in Florida is the Miami University in our country, but nope, the Redhawks, (previously the Redskins), of Oxford are a very proud bunch. Very proud of many things... Ben Roethlisberger played, (while my husband was also on Miami's football team!), for our school before going to the Pittsburgh Steelers... we are known for a lot besides Big Ben, but one tradition that comes to mind this time of year is Green Beer Day. Oh, the glorious Thursday before Spring Break when the bars open at 4am sharp to serve green beer and indulge partying students. (Many professors and coaches plan exams or important practices for this day).</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you're like me and enjoyed college but enjoy real life even more, here are some great ideas for an adult St. Patrick's Day party! Huge green four leaf clovers are always cute, but try decorating the tables and party area with green plants or integrate green candles. Instead of green food coloring in your beers, try cocktails with mint leaves.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(102, 0, 0); line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here are some fun appetizer and dessert options for keeping the green theme going that I found on </span></span><a href="http://www.thenest.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">thenest.com</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- toasted sesame asparagus in a balsamic glaze on asparagus </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- spicy chicken lettuce wraps</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- canapes colored with avocados and sweet green peas</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- crostinis with avocado and green pea hummus</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- grasshoper brownies</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">Crostini Ingredients: </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-1 Ripe Avacado</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-2 tablespoons lime juice</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-1/2 clove garlic, minced</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-2 4.9 oz. sweet green peas drained</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-1 teaspoon kosher salt or 1/2 teaspoon table salt</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-30 small pumpernickel rounds </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-or 8 regular pumpernickel slices each cut into 4 little squares</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">Directions:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-Spoon out the avacado flesh & put in a food processor, add lime juice and garlic</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-add the drained peas and salt, then process until you have puree</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-spread the pumpernickel rounds with avocado and pea mixture</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;">-arrange on platter for serving</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;color:#5F423C;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 14px;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 85, 85); line-height: 20px; font-family:helvetica, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><div class="recipe_structure_directions recipe_attr_text" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; display: block; "><p style="text-indent: 12px;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.4em; margin-left: 0.3em; line-height: 1.6em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-family: georgia, verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 20px; text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Green Grasshopper Brownies: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bottom Layer: 1/2 cup hard margarine (or butter), softened 1 cup brown sugar, packed 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup cocoa, sifted if lumpy 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt Middle Layer: 2/3 cup hard margarine (or butter), softened 2 cups icing (confectioner's) sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon peppermint flavouring 5-6 drops of green food colouring Top Layer: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 3 tablespoons hard margarine (or butter)</span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.4em; margin-left: 0.3em; line-height: 1.6em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">DIRECTIONS: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bottom Layer: Cream margarine and brown sugar together in medium bowl. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla. Mix. Add next 4 ingredients. Beat until moistened. Turn into greased 9 x 9 inch pan. Bake in 350°F oven for 15 minutes. Do not overcook. Cool thoroughly. Middle Layer: Beat all 5 ingredients together in separate medium bowl. Spread over bottom layer. Top Layer: Heat and stir chocolate chips and margarine in small heavy saucepan on low until melted and smooth. Spread over mint layer. Chill overnight until set. Cuts into 36 squares. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: -webkit-xxx-large; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Ingredients and Directions from </span></span></span><i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: transparent; "><a href="http://www.thenest.com/odb/themes/recipes/BookView.aspx?id=13555&type=6&pageIndex=2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Home for the Holidays</span></span></span></a></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> © Company's Coming Publishing Limited. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.companyscoming.com/">www.companyscoming.com</a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.4em; margin-left: 0.3em; line-height: 1.6em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: -webkit-xxx-large; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.companyscoming.com/"></a>Now that the food is taken care of, check out these websites for the decor photos pictured above:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border- outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- line-height: 14px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, verdana, sans-serif;color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Candle lantern, $9, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: -webkit-xxx-large; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><a href="http://www.LunaBazaar.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">LunaBazaar</span></span></a><a href="http://www.lunabazaar.com/full-bloom-charteuse-green-lotus-capiz-candle-lantern.aspx" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">.com</span></span></a></span></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border- outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- line-height: 14px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Hurricane vases, $3.50 and $4.50 (on clearance),</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><a href="http://Pier1.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pier1.com</span></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border- outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- line-height: 14px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kate Spade Sag Harbor Green Plates, $15- $60. At Macy’s, Colonie Center, Colonie, 459 – 1950</span></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border- outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- line-height: 14px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Green Everyware dinner plates $10</span></span></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border- outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- line-height: 14px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Green Platter: </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><a href="http://www.homedecorbylulu.com/home"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">http://www.homedecorbylulu.com/home</span></a></span></span></span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p></div></span></span></span></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-25554005606102389402010-03-11T11:22:00.005-07:002010-03-11T11:49:23.589-07:00DIY Ceremony programs, place cards, favors<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YXo3DL2gAvcfLhdHBsIwFrJrEMjoNhjLyI-Ag25ULZQt2e6HdpGhC4OD-16P1YKv6LXAy6u-mmVegseNbMfdlebGC0mu6wLbRY86WxO19n57N0GA24WOfHpnmG3YKZkM6Uk2yqkOgPM/s1600-h/CIMG0047.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YXo3DL2gAvcfLhdHBsIwFrJrEMjoNhjLyI-Ag25ULZQt2e6HdpGhC4OD-16P1YKv6LXAy6u-mmVegseNbMfdlebGC0mu6wLbRY86WxO19n57N0GA24WOfHpnmG3YKZkM6Uk2yqkOgPM/s320/CIMG0047.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447449620899525058" /></a><br />Everyone loves a quick, fun project, especially one that embodies personalization... Well, here is one inexpensive and easy way to put all of those adjective into your Ceremony programs, (or place cards, or favors, etc)! First, go to <a href="http://www.Moo.com/">www.Moo.com </a> Click on the, "Mini Cards" option and start uploading your own photos which you would like on the cards. They cost $20 for a pack of 100 and the website offers bulk discounts, as well.<div><br /></div><div>The fun part is that you can use these cards however you want. They can be your program which lays out whose who in your Ceremony, as well as showing love and appreciation for any Grandparents who have passed away and most importantly states the order of events so the guests know what is going on throughout the Ceremony. One bride I know wishes she would have used programs in her Ceremony because she had her step-brother walk her down the aisle. Many people on the Groom's side did not know who he was or why her father wasn't doing the honors. A Ceremony program could have quickly explained all of this. </div><div><br /></div><div>On one card you could list the order of events, on another card you could have lyrics to a special song, and on the other cards you could have photos of you and your groom plus things that are important to you. A photo of the puppy he got you last Christmas, a photo of your Nana who passed away, etc... Your wedding guests love to feel apart of your life, especially on this special day!</div><div><br /></div><div>You can order x-amount of each photo or text card, enough for your guests and then some cushion for unexpected needs. Once they arrive, you can separate the cards into piles, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and so forth. Then take one of each pile and start assembling your programs. Once they are stacked together and everything is in order, take a hole punch to the bottom of each stack. Through that little hole you can lace a pretty ribbon & waa-lah, you've constructed some very fun Ceremony programs, (that can double as fans in case the Church is stuffy!)</div><div><br /></div><div>If you wanted to double these programs as place card holders, you could make the first mini card say the guests names and table number. Have them all sitting on a table in alphabetical order outside the Church. Your guests can find their name, know where they're sitting at the Reception, know what is going on during the Ceremony, and have a fun little photo book memento to take home with them after the wedding... Best of all worlds!</div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-69033132405208178342010-03-02T11:59:00.006-07:002010-03-11T11:50:33.657-07:00"A Dream is a Wish your Heart makes"I stumbled across this amazing organization today while updating my twitter page... "Wish Upon a Wedding"... and I just HAVE to share their amazing goals and activities with you!<div><br /></div><div><br /><div><img src="webkit-fake-url://FB1F4507-3897-4DF4-9E1C-CD04670B15F0/image.tiff" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">WISH UPON A WEDDING</span></span></div><div> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Was founded in San Francisco, CA, in January of 2010, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">by a group of wedding and business entrepreneurs.</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Is America’s FIRST nonprofit wedding wish granting organization, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">producing weddings and civil union ceremonies at destinations across the United States </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">for individuals facing terminal illness, regardless of sexual orientation.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Boasts twenty chapters nationwide, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">headed by some of the industry’s most renowned leaders.</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Presidents: </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Sasha Souza, National</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Kevin Covey, LA/Orange County</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Stella Inserra, New York</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Ivy Robinson, The Carolinas </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Eliana Baucicault, Atlanta</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Mary Alice Sublett, Tennessee</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Heather Hamilton Sims, Houston </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Shelby Tuck Horton, DC</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Elisa Delgardio, Orlando</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Ali Phillips, Chicago</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Daniela Fageʹ́t, Seattle</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Other chapters opening soon: Colorado, Arizona, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Portland, Miami, St. Louis, Ohio and Nevada.</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">To qualify for Wishes, applicants must be unmarried </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">legal citizens of the United States, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">over the age of 18, </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">who have been diagnosed with less than three years to live.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Simply </span></span><a href="http://wishuponawedding.org/request-a-wedding/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">apply online</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> to request one of three wedding types: </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">URGENT (Up to 10 guests, in hospital or at bedside); </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">BOUTIQUE (up to 25 guests, in home town of applicant); </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">ROMANTIC (Up to 50 guests, at any WUW destination)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">·</span></span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Wish Granters needed in all locations. </span></span></span></p><p class="ListParagraph" style="text-align: center;text-indent: -0.25in; "><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Please </span></span><a href="http://wishuponawedding.org/how-to-help/become-a-wish-granter/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">apply online</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> today to start helping us make Wedding Wishes come true.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Here is a sweet couple who has already enjoyed the fruits of Wish Upon a Wedding's hard work: </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://wishuponawedding.org/florence-michael-wedding-wish/">http://wishuponawedding.org/florence-michael-wedding-wish/</a></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; "><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1267556161_2" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://wishuponawedding.org/the-story-behind-florence/" style="line-height: 1.2em; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 51, 153); outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">http://wishuponawedding.org/the-story-behind-florence/</span></span></a></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; font-family:Verdana, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1267556161_2" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://wishuponawedding.org/the-story-behind-florence/" style="line-height: 1.2em; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 51, 153); outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; "></a></span> </span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-11726353409417178402010-02-25T11:48:00.002-07:002010-03-11T11:52:45.509-07:00You got married HOW?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRHUArW6eU2XH7YSZltYskPvkKexgrZ_LJqEzg6utH5hKu5GS_329D1tuBM5ZZ-sV9q8XsdOTgZbszQEummJOM8bW9CQxTm465rQby7bH94Xgvf46Bvyv3JzCAQyeHeb4X8AemPf2iQc/s1600-h/126p02.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRHUArW6eU2XH7YSZltYskPvkKexgrZ_LJqEzg6utH5hKu5GS_329D1tuBM5ZZ-sV9q8XsdOTgZbszQEummJOM8bW9CQxTm465rQby7bH94Xgvf46Bvyv3JzCAQyeHeb4X8AemPf2iQc/s320/126p02.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442268863515969250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5bfkU4iFv5iP3kMv6oERO9R-tHfaOXHlPiM0YM9TMR6NLKZYnZaCUIt5R6LOHiA6Jmncwfang_0Crm4UrmVRtbl4Ih-dA-qFom5qm3T5vwo0okCcJL2Jvj85hyIC_U_4Jkidjb935ms/s1600-h/83p07.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5bfkU4iFv5iP3kMv6oERO9R-tHfaOXHlPiM0YM9TMR6NLKZYnZaCUIt5R6LOHiA6Jmncwfang_0Crm4UrmVRtbl4Ih-dA-qFom5qm3T5vwo0okCcJL2Jvj85hyIC_U_4Jkidjb935ms/s320/83p07.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442268857467547778" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRnvv63hhxl7Qo7V1-Mq7p4Nk017n02_dSscswu6LULsmlO5i3N7tg_XYX2yuZMOLWYEN3Rrm-m9AOTg4kTWSg5qa6dYzVj1hl2qdg6mut6QUy_2uB-1DI-fV-GLaQcSNNHDQf5acgj8/s1600-h/garden-of-the-gods-colorado.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRnvv63hhxl7Qo7V1-Mq7p4Nk017n02_dSscswu6LULsmlO5i3N7tg_XYX2yuZMOLWYEN3Rrm-m9AOTg4kTWSg5qa6dYzVj1hl2qdg6mut6QUy_2uB-1DI-fV-GLaQcSNNHDQf5acgj8/s320/garden-of-the-gods-colorado.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442268856135757010" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML_ve-DdJH4sDihgxIpoShI-Y9S-WBQuJ5xLJ3xPnsR85RCinzInRRSxFQPWzZn0tIy0mFFjKSLR4UQFGWTPW6db3jHNIvQy5u0zkRomth2f8ocs_KgJfyXI67sOY7e9mJG3W8ugEjKU/s1600-h/gallery_balloon_castlerock.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 244px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML_ve-DdJH4sDihgxIpoShI-Y9S-WBQuJ5xLJ3xPnsR85RCinzInRRSxFQPWzZn0tIy0mFFjKSLR4UQFGWTPW6db3jHNIvQy5u0zkRomth2f8ocs_KgJfyXI67sOY7e9mJG3W8ugEjKU/s320/gallery_balloon_castlerock.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442268850571821762" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif3gsEcnV9VoWhUlbha5FsHYBHc2xHO1JyK8hWZ8p7Vgg9p7uubh8RZaHwPg-zmTd99e7K18q88P-JenDTGTSCkFLzozFy3CnV1u4FCgLw24lKhnlK_apvgVhfKOuodGbinnQSfe4szhw/s1600-h/gallery_balloon_wedding_basket.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> While watching the Olympics in my comfy, (albeit dog-infested), living room with my AMAZING husband, lovely twin sis and hilarious friends; an indoor sky-diving commercial for a Denver facility comes on the television... </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"That is crazy, why would anyone want to throw themselves out of an airplane, to their <i>death</i>?!" one of my friends exclaimed in astonishment.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"They're not going to die! You have to take classes and become certified or go tandem with an instructor!" another one of our friends countered.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My husband Pete, (who knows that I am a long time fan of sky-diving and have always wanted to try it-but will probably chicken out when I finally get around to doing it), said "That is actually a really cool thing to do it indoors, I was thinking about doing that for Christy's Christmas gift last year."</span></div><div><br /></div><div>-<i>---This is totally a digression, but I have to tell you: two of my dear friends have great sky-diving stories... One sky-dove/sky-dived/? out of a helicopter while studying-abroad in Europe. The video footage literally shows her being pulled under the helicopter when she jumps out because of gravity and everything else going on, how awesome does that sound!! Another one of my friends did it naked... I had to share! Back to the point----</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Everyone went back to discussing commercials and Olympic athletes, but this little discussion got me thinking... are people crazy to do these types of things? I mean, we only live once, right? Why not have a little fun and get our blood pumping every now and again? Because we could die, that is a good reason not to do exhilarating risky behavior... But wasn't it Ferris Bueller who said, "Don't take life so seriously, no one gets out alive."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Now, this got me thinking even further... many people are afraid of marriage because their parents may have gotten divorced, or they're afraid of commitment, or whatever the reason may be. Even the people who are most against marriage have a hard time refusing to exchange vows if they find the "right person"... So, isn't this essentially the same thing as sky-diving? We are doing something we're afraid of because life is going to end at some point, we might as well be happy while we're still here... Is this too deep? Alright, well I'll quit being so philosophical and get to the fun wedding talk! I did a little research, and here are some awesome local Colorado places for thrill-seekers and scardy-pants alike to exchange their vows:</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">1) Sky-diving wedding in Longmont Colorado</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span> ~<a href="http://www.mile-hi-skydiving.com/">http://www.mile-hi-skydiving.com/</a></div><div> ~<a href="http://www.skydivetherockies.com/">http://www.skydivetherockies.com/</a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">2) Hot Air Balloon weddings Colorado</span></span></div><div> ~<a href="http://www.adventuresoutwest.com/colorado/balloon/co_wedding.html">http://www.adventuresoutwest.com/colorado/balloon/co_wedding.htm</a>l</div><div> ~<a href="http://www.greatamericandays.com/">http://www.greatamericandays.com/</a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">3) Rock Climbing Nuptials - Garden of the Gods</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:small;"><a href="www.gardenofgods.com/">www.</a><b><a href="www.gardenofgods.com/">garden</a></b><a href="www.gardenofgods.com/">of</a><b><a href="www.gardenofgods.com/">gods</a></b><a href="www.gardenofgods.com/">.com/</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; font-family:georgia, serif;">4) Roller Coaster Nuptials Denver CO</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~<a href="http://www.elitchgardens.com/">http://www.elitchgardens.com/</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~<a href="http://www.lakesideamusementpark.com/">http://www.lakesideamusementpark.com/</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~<a href="http://attractions.uptake.com/theme_parks/colorado.html">http://attractions.uptake.com/theme_parks/colorado.html</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">5) Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, CO</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~Not as dangerous, but still pretty unique and fun!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> ~<a href="http://www.cmzoo.org/">http://www.cmzoo.org/</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Trajan Pro', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:100%;color:#CCCCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:12px;"><br /></span></span></div></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-53659030114824407352010-02-21T18:10:00.008-07:002010-02-25T11:22:43.869-07:00Destination vs Hometown Weddings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbfm5a34hDRsPWOn8l1CkP76FsBuuFyrhJpN5BBjMTRFuxW_jTuWOFMnS159L8VG0JJ4040P93od0i-v4tm-F1r_GR4v27tGJJ0dHeS7PkuQcWSu-ww8_PRS0LdoLYCmZZ2PMeMhcw3w/s1600-h/village_Jack+Affleck.ashx.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbfm5a34hDRsPWOn8l1CkP76FsBuuFyrhJpN5BBjMTRFuxW_jTuWOFMnS159L8VG0JJ4040P93od0i-v4tm-F1r_GR4v27tGJJ0dHeS7PkuQcWSu-ww8_PRS0LdoLYCmZZ2PMeMhcw3w/s320/village_Jack+Affleck.ashx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442248204353379346" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjq7oLusNz-GnNZ5UngzxivvwQtJdDAdXlCY9hnvS6QMqN_nnpgm9GEZvMgSiO4Npz6jdywXx90jr86tcmcx-ZH2VyBSDnBuJ0rND5zwvxWM8mreyUVNRYSJ8Rvq2aXO28WxZT_MKF4k/s1600-h/001-Backyard_Wedding.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjq7oLusNz-GnNZ5UngzxivvwQtJdDAdXlCY9hnvS6QMqN_nnpgm9GEZvMgSiO4Npz6jdywXx90jr86tcmcx-ZH2VyBSDnBuJ0rND5zwvxWM8mreyUVNRYSJ8Rvq2aXO28WxZT_MKF4k/s320/001-Backyard_Wedding.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442241606732393858" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyIgErSursAeW7NBgmPsjXIftZDEDVwh7EzjK32zPBTJrC77Z6FYwYmZ5Ws6KZx9Vv_ItrRmlQ5D0xYE7e-DQ8Id8tTc0E2omm0iwKNSGqwFMH_DrJwWUhaPW9O5IvuurMVFw1s6Esk8/s1600-h/gazebo_101.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyIgErSursAeW7NBgmPsjXIftZDEDVwh7EzjK32zPBTJrC77Z6FYwYmZ5Ws6KZx9Vv_ItrRmlQ5D0xYE7e-DQ8Id8tTc0E2omm0iwKNSGqwFMH_DrJwWUhaPW9O5IvuurMVFw1s6Esk8/s320/gazebo_101.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442241598367409106" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLtYydS1HyzTEEtnVJ_D3gABKVIw9ouOIDPhaMYq1CdcNDd3lJWcVqizueSXQNbLz0YgGA9cH-gbXnd1zfBRoe7yqrsBSSoyVHtQNo-T9CQaR9SF2cRWh29_ut6GAgxsz0jZhqxjdyiVw/s1600-h/hanalei_bay_30.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 176px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLtYydS1HyzTEEtnVJ_D3gABKVIw9ouOIDPhaMYq1CdcNDd3lJWcVqizueSXQNbLz0YgGA9cH-gbXnd1zfBRoe7yqrsBSSoyVHtQNo-T9CQaR9SF2cRWh29_ut6GAgxsz0jZhqxjdyiVw/s320/hanalei_bay_30.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442241596327151394" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9SN_xqgGmfQkBpvn7cM0YD9w0WucrY7oAXSaOleN3HWdhFyNWGiEDXNG3eW10PCVrzCJ__1owgdczGn-X-q_pDw3SsvSHj8wKAKCVkyHLuUspN0mFuNMozkMX2FN1y1J4lRoALyUhbE/s1600-h/destination_wedding_tropical_beach_cruise.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9SN_xqgGmfQkBpvn7cM0YD9w0WucrY7oAXSaOleN3HWdhFyNWGiEDXNG3eW10PCVrzCJ__1owgdczGn-X-q_pDw3SsvSHj8wKAKCVkyHLuUspN0mFuNMozkMX2FN1y1J4lRoALyUhbE/s320/destination_wedding_tropical_beach_cruise.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442241586127583778" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the first established aspects of a wedding is the, "<b>Where</b>". Travel to a <i>beautiful beach</i>? A <i>snowy mountain resor</i>t? Or maybe plan a sentimental wedding in the bride or groom's hometown... There are many amazing places in our country and all over the world to have a destination wedding. Whether your guest list numbers in the hundreds or is a small group of five people, destination weddings are a very fun route. <div><br /></div><div>Many brides and grooms hesitate to even consider the destination option due to <i>budget restrictions</i>. This is a simple case of glass half-empty vs glass half-full mentality! Destination weddings are actually an amazing way to <i>cut your budget in half</i>. Oftentimes, people are less likely to be able to attend your wedding if it is not convenient for them. Your guests have to consider travel plans, time off of work, hotel accommodations, etc. Not only will your guest list be cut in half, but this will also make your wallet happy as your florist and caterer bill will be directly affected! Other parts of your budget will be decreased as well when you decrease your guest list. Sometimes, a bride and groom will block off hotel rooms for their guests, this is totally optional and usually comes with a group discount rate. Nowadays, all the bride and groom have to do is suggest great places to stay and let their guests do the deciding and paying of the tab. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is very fun to make a long weekend out of a destination wedding. Whether you're planning a dogsledding tour for your guests in the Colorado Rockies, or a Surfing Instructor for the kids in Hawaii; planned activities encourages your guests to make their own mini-vacation out of your wedding weekend-a truly memorable and generous gift. </div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of vacations, honeymoons can be an easy transition after a destination wedding. It is a great idea for the couple when they wed in an area they want to honeymoon in as well, the travel plans are cut in half. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, if you're more of a hometown kinda gal, can you imagine your wedding being anywhere other than your backyard or the church you grew up in? The plus side to being married at home is that everyone important to you can generally attend without having to stretch their wallet to travel around the world. You're in a place of comfortability and familiarity at home, this means your wedding day will be less nerve-racking. When you're able to let all of the little worries and everything else fall away from your mind, you can truly enjoy your wedding day.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hometown weddings can be just an expensive, or inexpensive, as destination weddings. Whether the wedding is in Aruba or Dayton, Ohio... in the end, it comes down to the couple's ability to stick to their budget. If there are important aspects of the wedding, the couple should definitely focus their energy and wallet in that area. But if the couple doesn't mind if something is left out of their special day, by all means, they should leave it out. It is about two people who love each other, committing to spending the rest of their lives together. Weddings shouldn't have to be a circus of events put on for their guests amusement. Think about what you want to spend money on, what location/venue is important to you, and get married there-in whatever style your little heart desires!</div><div><br /></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-13340151917075115442010-02-12T14:54:00.013-07:002010-03-11T11:55:10.096-07:00Guest Book Alternatives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0laKV02p192w2Dqq_gAxrglrGhPAw-jLz9AVzP0xbd68S0Qguoze29xSUGZTrUvuQGbnGBJlpxwhDAGGJXA-a1ju3ZIBtNi1UUH-DaJNjx3mLa9uLOlFIuGrZfzMpmWlT6fOM8kULEc/s1600-h/guestbook_photo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0laKV02p192w2Dqq_gAxrglrGhPAw-jLz9AVzP0xbd68S0Qguoze29xSUGZTrUvuQGbnGBJlpxwhDAGGJXA-a1ju3ZIBtNi1UUH-DaJNjx3mLa9uLOlFIuGrZfzMpmWlT6fOM8kULEc/s400/guestbook_photo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441504394123006610" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKMR6fpBYOj5Nf-OrmazHVTughFhiccBn-xcS0SHrpa29cwNL7UdSaeNyvUmIUT2LaJ9VbVpEfm4vGISdAumG88LR_ZM9T3zrJnbCm9xgiFhU5Xd3O6swtFfA4FZPd0boPZUx6Kt6j44/s1600-h/imagescrolldot.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 375px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKMR6fpBYOj5Nf-OrmazHVTughFhiccBn-xcS0SHrpa29cwNL7UdSaeNyvUmIUT2LaJ9VbVpEfm4vGISdAumG88LR_ZM9T3zrJnbCm9xgiFhU5Xd3O6swtFfA4FZPd0boPZUx6Kt6j44/s400/imagescrolldot.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441502801295999314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-fq7jLinfi_K7toVY8XqnT_aQpgH6jdDhXi61GsXhv_9TKMmzom-IHOs4np7BRdiTMgUOhZ6-4PDWlaRC0-TftDkPHO39YYPl0_tQ3___WaNm-EYTzscfscd0tP79SfpyFU81BuZ5bw/s1600-h/iconbridegroomSIGn.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 199px; height: 203px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-fq7jLinfi_K7toVY8XqnT_aQpgH6jdDhXi61GsXhv_9TKMmzom-IHOs4np7BRdiTMgUOhZ6-4PDWlaRC0-TftDkPHO39YYPl0_tQ3___WaNm-EYTzscfscd0tP79SfpyFU81BuZ5bw/s400/iconbridegroomSIGn.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441502794262668754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoL72if5eJq5NWwUIlN6ESuIf746dDfKtJNWBfqVkUyWGiN2CIU4fIIgW3cFzaN2HYAbxryfgCHk1EnBSVlFK1MeBKjApb6w5_pgA30ppoRbJehtYBeObW95XsCk8f_PUwtlM-NM4zQXo/s1600-h/photoboothguestbookpic.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 138px; height: 360px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoL72if5eJq5NWwUIlN6ESuIf746dDfKtJNWBfqVkUyWGiN2CIU4fIIgW3cFzaN2HYAbxryfgCHk1EnBSVlFK1MeBKjApb6w5_pgA30ppoRbJehtYBeObW95XsCk8f_PUwtlM-NM4zQXo/s400/photoboothguestbookpic.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441500989123494466" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A recurring theme I am </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">starting to pick up on among my blogs and within the wedding world---> how to follow tradition while somehow spicing it up at the same time?? Well, the Guest Book is no exception to this conundrum. Many guests jot down their name and</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> that is it</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> in the Guest Book, how is that fun? The bride and groom already have a copy of their guest-list, why do they want to see it in the guest's actual handwriting? How about a Guest Book you will actually want to look at again after the wedding weekend has concluded? Nay, how about a Guest Book that might actually be functional and multi-purpose? Now that's what I'm talkin' about... let's explore your options:</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1) <i>Photo Album Guest Book:</i></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This is an awesome idea, because everyone loves a picture book! I know my husband generally doesn't like to read books unless they have pictures in them... But I digress. There are a couple fun ways to accomplish the Photo Album Guest Book idea. Many people incorporate a Photo Booth into their Receptions now, a fun way for guests to pass the time during cocktail hour while you're taking your professional photos with the Photographer. Photo Booths for weddings are available everywhere, and if you have a great Wedding Planner, you should be able to rent a Photo Booth without breaking your budget. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So, the guests hop in the Photo Booth, take some cute, fun, wacky, silly faced pictures and when they're done, out pops TWO copies of their photos. Now you're killing two birds with one stone, (you've taken care of a "wedding favor" for your guest as well as their guest book entry): guests get to keep one copy of their photo booth slideshow and one copy easily is slid into your Guest Book with an area for them to write a fun note. How much better can a Guest Book be? You've got documentation of what your friends were wearing and what they said on your wedding day, something you will look at with your grandchildren years from now and say, "That was Tommy's grandma back in the day, goodness look at her hair!" </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2) <i>Signature Platters:</i></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This Guest Book option is functional and can be displayed anywhere. Very easy to do, go to your local ceramics and firing store and pick what platter you like best. You can even customize them with your monogram or picture. Have the platter on display where your traditional Guest Book would be at the Ceremony, (many couples take it to the Reception as well so their guests aren't in a rush and can take their time writing a meaningful message). After the wedding, insert the platter into your oven and wah-lah, the signatures and messages are baked in time, never to</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> be erased! (Careful not to drop the platter!) I know of couples who have put their platter on permanent display in their china cabinet while other couples have used it as a serving tray for many meals. If you don't have a local ceramics store to pick out platters and fire them, then check out these websites for ideas and products: </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="www.celebrationplates.com">www.celebrationplates.co</a>m</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> (the platter Images above copyright (c) 2000-2009 Just Wright Designs, LLC) and </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="www.ForeverandAlways.com">www.ForeverandAlways.com</a></span></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3) </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Signature Photo Frames:</span></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Similar to the Signature Platter idea, a signature photo frame is very easy as well. These frames and mattes can be purchased at Target, Michael's, Hobby Lobby, and many other retailers for very decent prices. Have a photo of you and your fiance blown up to whatever size you like, then get a frame with enough matte around the photo for your guests to sign during the wedding. This can act as your Guest Book, but many brides still have a traditional Guest Book when they do this option. Sometimes, couples will put an engagement photo in their frame for during the wedding signing session, then afterwards they change the picture to one from the actual wedding. Whatever picture you choose for this frame, it is a great way to be reminded daily of everyone who loves and supports your new marriage. After the wedding you can hang this memory anywhere in your house for your house guests to appreciate and even remember fun times from your wedding.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4) <i>Artistic doodlers Guest Book:</i></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This option allows your guests to have a relaxed but fun way of recording more than just their names. The Guest Book page is set up like an Elementary School project. There are questions such as, "How far did you travel to come to this wedding?" and space for your guest's answers. There are other fun questions for your guests to answer and you can even put pictures of your guests or yourselves in this Guest Book as well!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Check out: </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="www.guestbookstore.com">www.guestbookstore.com</a></span></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Another way to customize your ceremony:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">-Monogrammed Runners, check out </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="www.FairytaleRunners.com">www.FairytaleRunners.com</a></span></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-49312212645802176262010-02-04T10:43:00.008-07:002010-03-11T11:55:48.165-07:00Mama Martha's awesome DIY<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZB4CsFTlParuozWRflKMEHfWOZDueqN0A_o4N3VGspJL0Y7sZ45tpIRA3Vfomw3HhgFQjncLkG4vfAEOCbIhJebrZz6O4EmgyhiA8x1zRI5NR9yqiTxPD3kRNcSyKf4mS5PEtTcrC1g/s1600-h/img-537.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZB4CsFTlParuozWRflKMEHfWOZDueqN0A_o4N3VGspJL0Y7sZ45tpIRA3Vfomw3HhgFQjncLkG4vfAEOCbIhJebrZz6O4EmgyhiA8x1zRI5NR9yqiTxPD3kRNcSyKf4mS5PEtTcrC1g/s320/img-537.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434452304978627250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8IpEzqDnfMrsAGG4w70oCCIvG7e2WmElWTsPxoOlx0GLPqm0_BlpY48S4Bh6DOy8ibEIPBcPu1J3cIoE50SM7OqQs9m57CSjPR292HGuoSTdUmVk0vgS5-T03Q3kqA8eslECScydtZg/s1600-h/mwd103906_sum08_sign_xl.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8IpEzqDnfMrsAGG4w70oCCIvG7e2WmElWTsPxoOlx0GLPqm0_BlpY48S4Bh6DOy8ibEIPBcPu1J3cIoE50SM7OqQs9m57CSjPR292HGuoSTdUmVk0vgS5-T03Q3kqA8eslECScydtZg/s320/mwd103906_sum08_sign_xl.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434447550342014546" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJgLgOK3AIMsFLM05y7V1Lk9BePU119qEvATD4hT0CneMWDnRXNvwBrqqehPr0O9T_qwnShnOtwKBvEYeZueksIZSSGThYu8iw3wI7iucYghTaKBtFQRcJLVxiMm-WZ9NJuOw3rF7wyLI/s1600-h/wa104114_spr09_026_xl.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJgLgOK3AIMsFLM05y7V1Lk9BePU119qEvATD4hT0CneMWDnRXNvwBrqqehPr0O9T_qwnShnOtwKBvEYeZueksIZSSGThYu8iw3wI7iucYghTaKBtFQRcJLVxiMm-WZ9NJuOw3rF7wyLI/s320/wa104114_spr09_026_xl.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434447540408393922" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jOQIGWiEmNxnfP7rGyDTrbZttaZhKwR3ntB1kdZTM2qw8kx7hx2qYsCZu3XI4bQbhUEfeF9RxKtf3TfXwxVEUnLwFFdMMBM0zekyzcoiQfIWbbG0Xrw96Xo6fHXen23SVqtGnztu_3M/s1600-h/mwd104505_spr09_parasol03_xl.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jOQIGWiEmNxnfP7rGyDTrbZttaZhKwR3ntB1kdZTM2qw8kx7hx2qYsCZu3XI4bQbhUEfeF9RxKtf3TfXwxVEUnLwFFdMMBM0zekyzcoiQfIWbbG0Xrw96Xo6fHXen23SVqtGnztu_3M/s320/mwd104505_spr09_parasol03_xl.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434447537049020082" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hYTD9-WBJ7nD5zRQJFpWtg7XJ56d8d9ddNBYE9d1_4vLpyoZ6XcisuJ7FRK2qTQD61bztl3AIRFnkWetWJkf3jlk-ZuMUQLGPhqq71Qhc7xVibt2LWCzR6YZA3lv7op0pRKvXB6QZ8I/s1600-h/mwd104505_spr09_centerpiece1_xl.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hYTD9-WBJ7nD5zRQJFpWtg7XJ56d8d9ddNBYE9d1_4vLpyoZ6XcisuJ7FRK2qTQD61bztl3AIRFnkWetWJkf3jlk-ZuMUQLGPhqq71Qhc7xVibt2LWCzR6YZA3lv7op0pRKvXB6QZ8I/s320/mwd104505_spr09_centerpiece1_xl.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434447524141217634" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlgpBcgP2XPrlSHUY9JYTvIKAQYkXEU6G9UltNVmSFBOsmDT_xoK5ZoDVDm00Pxb9pMMS7s-JR06EVaH-N_m2VmEus0XK7r13dgMvIB6ne6J1U3FwQ00RAzenHusfejBwezpZYoUakQA/s1600-h/mwd103906_sum08_lumanarias_xl.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlgpBcgP2XPrlSHUY9JYTvIKAQYkXEU6G9UltNVmSFBOsmDT_xoK5ZoDVDm00Pxb9pMMS7s-JR06EVaH-N_m2VmEus0XK7r13dgMvIB6ne6J1U3FwQ00RAzenHusfejBwezpZYoUakQA/s320/mwd103906_sum08_lumanarias_xl.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434447516202075986" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We all know Martha Stewart is the QUEEN of all things crafty, culinary and floral. Today my belief in the church of Martha was reinforced when I stumbled upon some of her DIY links on Twitter... Not only are these ideas very cool and add personalization to any event, they're also obtainable! A DIY project that you can actually do yourself, got to love that.</div><div><br /></div><div>The first DIY is the, "Just Married" banner sign, that is adorable. She uses alphabet etchings with thin borders which can be transferred to circular thin cardboard then linked together with beautiful ribbons. I particularly love her suggestion of using the banner on your ceremony get-away vehicle, then also including it somewhere in your reception afterwards. It is always great when you and your guests can enjoy something multiple times!</div><div><br /></div><div>The adorable flower girl parasols and paper magnolia centerpieces are also great re-usable DIY projects. Based on cutting out patterns from Martha's website, these fun decorative pieces are easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions. Your flower girls will love playing with their new toys, which will keep them smiling all through the photography session-a double added bonus because the umbrellas will add that special touch to your pictures as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Last but not least, the votive luminaria centerpieces are the perfect easy personalization DIY project for any wedding-related event. As with the previous projects, you can easily use Martha's online templates, but tweek them just a little based on your aesthetic. If your wedding cake or wedding dress has a particular lace theme, you can incorporate this onto the luminaria, too. The print-offs are on an 11-17 piece of paper which can be folded, accordion style and wrapped around the glass votives, hurricanes or whatever vase type you're using.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're looking for more of a challenge, I highly recommend trying Miss Cola's DIY Garter. I suggest this purely based on the fact that she stole my heart with the last touch, a beautiful vintage <i>cameo</i>. In a past life I must have worn cameos daily because I just LOVE the darn things. Here is a link to her website: </div><div><a href="http://www.weddingbee.com/2010/02/04/toss-me-diy-garter-tutorial/">http://www.weddingbee.com/2010/02/04/toss-me-diy-garter-tutorial/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Happy crafting!!</div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-13835850674416221562010-02-03T16:37:00.005-07:002010-02-03T17:08:31.791-07:00Thank-you Note Etiquette<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidelSBfBj8EG5vj_An6Kt9cQ6wPpyF0anonfU31jNZqmjL_LY-W_7vMTJc3A8ygkKgulOz3R0LCXeBksw7RpyJN4gDVUYi_Fh5ONJfMS9kX4g770JgcrPiMGGYsidTn3YO-QdzUw9v88/s1600-h/mba-interviews-09-thank-you-notes.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidelSBfBj8EG5vj_An6Kt9cQ6wPpyF0anonfU31jNZqmjL_LY-W_7vMTJc3A8ygkKgulOz3R0LCXeBksw7RpyJN4gDVUYi_Fh5ONJfMS9kX4g770JgcrPiMGGYsidTn3YO-QdzUw9v88/s320/mba-interviews-09-thank-you-notes.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434167450070348114" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdl-F79fk23ep95-73njhunpCGKSFZf7NMPiL4LPZMolT-OGJHPzOyQ9XLk3EjwkAqWoz5EvdCx10O8804j5381OfiWAGedrQ-QYS7JTHR9nJGU5wkVj5f9kAyBqkYQzkP4sM_ia8gOI/s1600-h/thank_you_card-p137381157010938113q6k5_400.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdl-F79fk23ep95-73njhunpCGKSFZf7NMPiL4LPZMolT-OGJHPzOyQ9XLk3EjwkAqWoz5EvdCx10O8804j5381OfiWAGedrQ-QYS7JTHR9nJGU5wkVj5f9kAyBqkYQzkP4sM_ia8gOI/s320/thank_you_card-p137381157010938113q6k5_400.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434167443077185442" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /><br /></span></span><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Thank you notes are generally not something a bride thinks of during the planning process. Many people are taught to think of life in a sequential time-line. We love lists and bullet points and properly laid out plans... yet, many guests send wedding gifts before the wedding day. So, riddle me this: how do you respond? By RESPONDING. These early gifts are wonderful, fun, stir excitement for the marriage and new life together; but most importantly, these new gifts need to be acknowledged promptly.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">When it comes to weddings in today's world, many traditional courtesies and etiquette rules are considered optional and even outdated. I am here to tell you this is </span></span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">AWFUL</span></span></i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">. Showing appreciation is something that should be vocalized more often and more sincerely, now more than ever. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Here is a nice little bullet point list of Thank you note rules, that in my opinion, are common sense:</span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-Must be handwritten, <i>no exceptions</i>. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-Include a personal message to the guest if they travelled to celebrate your wedding day with you, acknowledging your appreciation of their extra effort.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-State what the gift is when you're thanking them.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-Include a personal message about how you are going to use the gift.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-Send thank you notes no later than two weeks after you received the gift.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">-If you can't get the notes out within a desirable time frame: Better late than never! <b>Always send a thank you note.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>Here is an example:</i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"Dear Aunt Cathy,</span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Ryan and I were delighted you were able to travel all the way from London to help us celebrate our special day. It was such a pleasure to spend time with you and you definitely won "best moves" on the dance floor! Thank you very much for the lovely KitchenAid Mixer, we can't wait to use it when we host our first dinner party as a married couple. You always have an open invitation to our new house in Colorado! </span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Thanks again for your generosity, we love you very much.</span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Fondly,</span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Ryan and Sarah </span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">(The Greatest Thank-you-note-writer your Aunt Cathy has seen in a while!)"</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">There are many ways to personalize your Thank you cards, just think outside the box. If all else fails, shoot dear old Christy an email and I'll help you out ;)</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-15955474297069615482010-02-03T00:13:00.007-07:002010-02-03T00:36:39.617-07:00Hypothetically... I heart lists.<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Times;font-size:medium;"><table width="400" height="0" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td width="144" height="0" align="left" valign="top" class="normal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">CEREMONY</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Ceremony Site Fee<br />Officiant's Fee<br />Officiant's Gratuity<br />Guest Book, Pen<br />Penholder<br />Ring Bearer Pillow<br />Flower Girl Basket</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">WEDDING ATTIRE</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bridal Gown<br />Alterations<br />Headpiece & Veil<br />Jewelry<br />Garter<br />Shoes<br />Hairdresser<br />Makeup Artist<br />Manicure/Pedicure<br />Groom's Formal Wear </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">PHOTOGRAPHY</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bride & Groom's Album<br />Parents' Album<br />Extra Prints<br />Proofs/Previews<br />Negatives<br />Engagement Photographs</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">VIDEOGRAPHY</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Main Video<br />Titles<br />Extra Hours<br />Photo Montage<br />Extra Copies </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">STATIONERY</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Invitations<br />Response Cards<br />Reception Cards<br />Ceremony Cards<br />Place Setting Cards<br />Rain Cards/Maps<br />Ceremony Programs<br />Announcements<br />Thank-You Notes<br />Stamps<br />Calligraphy</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></b></td><td width="141" align="left" valign="top"><span class="normal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">MUSIC</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Ceremony Music<br />Reception Music<br />Cocktail Hour Music</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">RECEPTION</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">R</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">eception Site Fee<br />Hors D' Oeuvres<br />Main Meal/Caterer<br />Liquor/ Beverages<br />Bartending Fee<br />Bar Set-up Fee<br />Service Providers' Meals<br />Gratuity<br />Party Favors<br />Gift Attendant<br />Parking Fee<br />Valet Service</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">s</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">FLOWERS</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bouquets</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bride's<br />Tossing<br />Maid of Honor's<br />Bridesmaids' </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Floral Hairpiece</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Flower Girl's</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Corsages</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bride's Mother & Grandmother<br />Groom's Mother & Grandmother<br />Other Family Members' </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Boutonnieres</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Groom's<br />Ushers<br />Bride's Father & Grandfather<br />Groom's Father & Grandfather<br />Other Family members'<br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Ceremony Site</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Main Altar<br />Alter Candelabra<br />Aisle Pews</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Reception Site</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Head Table<br />Guest Tables<br />Buffet Table<br />Punch Table<br />Cake Table<br />Cake & Knife<br />Toasting Glasses<br />Floral Delivery & Setup fees</span></span></span></b></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></b></td><td width="115" align="left" valign="top" class="normal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">BAKERY</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">W</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">edding Cake<br />Groom's Cake<br />Cake Delivery<br />Set-up Fee<br />Cake-Cutting Fee<br />Cake Top<br />Cake Knife/Toast Glasses</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">DECORATIONS</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Table Centerpieces<br />Couple Photos or Slideshow</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">TRANSPORTATION</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">L</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">imo/car to Reception from Church<br />Limo/car to hotel<br />Any taxi services provided to guests</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">RENTAL ITEMS</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bridal Slip<br />Ceremony Accessories<br />Tent/Canopy<br />Dance Floor<br />Tables/Chairs<br />Linen/Tableware<br />Heaters<br />Lanterns<br />Restrooms</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">GIFTS</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bride's Gift<br />Groom's Gift<br />Bridesmaids' Gifts<br />Ushers' Gifts<br />Parents' Gift</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">s<br /><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">PARTIES</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Bridesmaids' Luncheon<br />Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties<br />Rehearsal Dinner </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span></span></b><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">MISCELLANEOUS</span></span></strong><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Newspaper Announ.<br />Marriage License<br />Prenuptial Agreement<br />Bridal Gown/Bouquet<br />Preservation<br />Wedding Consultant<br />Taxes</span></span></span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Just a general spouting off of items in categories, that you may or may not need for your wedding... obvi every event is different, but these are the basics.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Times, serif;"><br /></span></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-271439858385347492010-02-02T17:25:00.006-07:002010-02-09T21:41:39.078-07:00Important vs. Not Important<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">The CEO of Coke, Bryan Dyson, (in his '30 second speech’), said "Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling five balls in the air. You name them – work, family, health, Friends and spirit and you’re keeping all of these in the air. </span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">You will soon understand that work is a </span></span></span><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1265156600_4" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">rubber ball</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">. If you drop it, it will bounce back.<br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">But the other four balls – Family, Health, Friends and Spirit – are made of glass. If you drop one of these; they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for it."</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><i>Weigh the pros and cons of what you're spending your time and money on during the planning process, make sure you focus on what really matters!</i></span></span></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-90614204182034447542010-01-22T14:09:00.003-07:002010-01-22T14:17:52.872-07:00Accessory alternatives to veils...Round dos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhN4LNwxCUzNVdoA41pKSY-iJrVcZ31anMfVs3nj3-cwUyudkObLG_MKWyF0zWd8wTTdxPgw4TI40Hl0QkWBNxyhDgSH6M6hT9AYMehJ0oyaFLTNrl-COl1CwPHTs6V5ALzmzLbPciPTM/s1600-h/27.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhN4LNwxCUzNVdoA41pKSY-iJrVcZ31anMfVs3nj3-cwUyudkObLG_MKWyF0zWd8wTTdxPgw4TI40Hl0QkWBNxyhDgSH6M6hT9AYMehJ0oyaFLTNrl-COl1CwPHTs6V5ALzmzLbPciPTM/s320/27.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429676378566465154" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnc7O_Z89LSF7ErV0-OJn3t3NHbRHVMeU2AQ3Jsxfb-bhvwufz2vQcfrdLmJmm4eWSJZj-vGdA-ALGl8jinVqiHSTGx5CyiDZVwOOLEFeTQzJBwLIbnmwu8ol6VE1QfI8ayXFQVsHOwTI/s1600-h/headpiece4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnc7O_Z89LSF7ErV0-OJn3t3NHbRHVMeU2AQ3Jsxfb-bhvwufz2vQcfrdLmJmm4eWSJZj-vGdA-ALGl8jinVqiHSTGx5CyiDZVwOOLEFeTQzJBwLIbnmwu8ol6VE1QfI8ayXFQVsHOwTI/s320/headpiece4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429676373915358546" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz_tmhEhmCyBntNHg4_bRmQOKh3t-yArF8PBwNLj217z3HWBPgd8Zs4JLfxt2dVuiL-2IdxQcQXiQHCd46jErWivV35o8n1uqzzObSfVouJ608TxEikna_7qb-DIMKbWZOZRn-GirbK8/s1600-h/8707.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz_tmhEhmCyBntNHg4_bRmQOKh3t-yArF8PBwNLj217z3HWBPgd8Zs4JLfxt2dVuiL-2IdxQcQXiQHCd46jErWivV35o8n1uqzzObSfVouJ608TxEikna_7qb-DIMKbWZOZRn-GirbK8/s320/8707.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429676368605970082" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4E-TX5NZQNcVRbjHuG_Lmam2Mjyn9b8QQv2x-IComAN9fhAVhm2uoQB3bdAsZPADTTcm69etbOBxIc84zx77X0lZ0PsVQ-oDwkQS1-RZ-sJ-nbh3MUVW_LdkkFP2AXRJbT_IqsFeDvjg/s1600-h/FlexBandTiara.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4E-TX5NZQNcVRbjHuG_Lmam2Mjyn9b8QQv2x-IComAN9fhAVhm2uoQB3bdAsZPADTTcm69etbOBxIc84zx77X0lZ0PsVQ-oDwkQS1-RZ-sJ-nbh3MUVW_LdkkFP2AXRJbT_IqsFeDvjg/s320/FlexBandTiara.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674763058587954" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9zJh3zdHB4iyrbNkDxP6qc-ETLUcoBdHTNqAd5_GV3VBRjwSyvXU94dO9IPs0cWMuVSIQwAzGNcYUjpzzcJAPosRAdDNFgL3oSA8-7OlY1072leaXb2SYjCHMgfpzuTSlLZ20JSHdnM/s1600-h/Chandelier+bridal+hair+comb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9zJh3zdHB4iyrbNkDxP6qc-ETLUcoBdHTNqAd5_GV3VBRjwSyvXU94dO9IPs0cWMuVSIQwAzGNcYUjpzzcJAPosRAdDNFgL3oSA8-7OlY1072leaXb2SYjCHMgfpzuTSlLZ20JSHdnM/s320/Chandelier+bridal+hair+comb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674754919616802" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNyLH-UdD6XaYt01tHwv00qqUWnXfPyv8Oy6m8heWbAbf5LzRI56GqXH2mFuHoxzgdi902k8eJ36Vd2vxkpKjgXDJAGVYRFAqQkaeoHyZR3ObLiCZHZSJA3YmXlfgu_0w3Vgzmx4xCiw/s1600-h/Beckham.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNyLH-UdD6XaYt01tHwv00qqUWnXfPyv8Oy6m8heWbAbf5LzRI56GqXH2mFuHoxzgdi902k8eJ36Vd2vxkpKjgXDJAGVYRFAqQkaeoHyZR3ObLiCZHZSJA3YmXlfgu_0w3Vgzmx4xCiw/s320/Beckham.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674752291976866" /></a>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-64611215848049965512010-01-22T14:01:00.002-07:002010-01-22T14:09:17.346-07:00Accessory alternatives to veils...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfK-sViYhQ4atr42F4jII_9rgQEMnfe4NqQcbRmKQ_YeCue4J6qi-sTTYKwMXEtAnDEjHI2xgJmKzev-M3dcFnS01fkuBgUyVfumL8SSm6mw1n3OJoy1S85EKiVqIEhjYF6_ZJWlxYTbE/s1600-h/styel_me_pretty.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfK-sViYhQ4atr42F4jII_9rgQEMnfe4NqQcbRmKQ_YeCue4J6qi-sTTYKwMXEtAnDEjHI2xgJmKzev-M3dcFnS01fkuBgUyVfumL8SSm6mw1n3OJoy1S85EKiVqIEhjYF6_ZJWlxYTbE/s320/styel_me_pretty.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674055414969778" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJui2W2c0ZqLPwWkiy1yG_ixFTXmGFZOGsjdYuqGgcyOWGfgoELFuhK87AACKFba6fumf_9o7zZqKlgAMZFMtUyVQmXt8iA8l9LA7oMrsKw3adhAmqHkCf9pv55yY3w_vmlDVVJtbQcE/s1600-h/hair-accessories.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJui2W2c0ZqLPwWkiy1yG_ixFTXmGFZOGsjdYuqGgcyOWGfgoELFuhK87AACKFba6fumf_9o7zZqKlgAMZFMtUyVQmXt8iA8l9LA7oMrsKw3adhAmqHkCf9pv55yY3w_vmlDVVJtbQcE/s320/hair-accessories.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674048032846274" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMPuKa5r_Bp-L9g35_kaSYuCNLvFT8leWf96srIqi92QFw0-hGfYZL9NDNzUfFwwDnOUK6PGj2xcWNAhaQsFGQ0n9zBLiZ6fm8P4P6sQjxNJ-vrM-9T4lI4769zuANKxoNAHsBNlbSwg/s1600-h/FeatherHairPiece.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 276px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMPuKa5r_Bp-L9g35_kaSYuCNLvFT8leWf96srIqi92QFw0-hGfYZL9NDNzUfFwwDnOUK6PGj2xcWNAhaQsFGQ0n9zBLiZ6fm8P4P6sQjxNJ-vrM-9T4lI4769zuANKxoNAHsBNlbSwg/s320/FeatherHairPiece.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674045413916082" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdcGOW1x-2gFp-g_zRf7D-A6qqdbRHvePogQEg0ndFC4UQt1ronj_BfUrdX-y8WCzIMzro70turPucLv1jrg9-f-h9BrCaVUKc8v9f9IyF5SzPRgANV6gHRPWgKj_0dhx3sUuqD1Rnpc/s1600-h/002_primary3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdcGOW1x-2gFp-g_zRf7D-A6qqdbRHvePogQEg0ndFC4UQt1ronj_BfUrdX-y8WCzIMzro70turPucLv1jrg9-f-h9BrCaVUKc8v9f9IyF5SzPRgANV6gHRPWgKj_0dhx3sUuqD1Rnpc/s320/002_primary3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674038664122690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9bX06sgZQ3z2wx5TLQ5-6a3FbpgEsb2kPPi87CPgaUQ1BNierBXDyNROik2Mg4DKeOP-xqMXUATxUamEVYBiTN_skTEBsNn_7Hx7gh547rEMmhXS8KsORkBL_haTwXf7APeyX1H0RGQ/s1600-h/twigshoney02.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9bX06sgZQ3z2wx5TLQ5-6a3FbpgEsb2kPPi87CPgaUQ1BNierBXDyNROik2Mg4DKeOP-xqMXUATxUamEVYBiTN_skTEBsNn_7Hx7gh547rEMmhXS8KsORkBL_haTwXf7APeyX1H0RGQ/s320/twigshoney02.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429674036757369394" /></a>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-13984489829429762502010-01-22T13:49:00.004-07:002010-01-22T14:13:25.548-07:00Unveiling of the Veils!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-6r6WYD554TUbMu8ACy3vtd1mhnLY0fzRP_RYQTAjO4oy4QIpDncO1RWpkj4BwM78pgNsgpI0ZD3jeey9J7z_VQVkxQizE7PbmaK74bsqvKq3hWemX0PzJTfSyGTTNvptZiUQMhMWUY/s1600-h/0112080214-main_Full.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-6r6WYD554TUbMu8ACy3vtd1mhnLY0fzRP_RYQTAjO4oy4QIpDncO1RWpkj4BwM78pgNsgpI0ZD3jeey9J7z_VQVkxQizE7PbmaK74bsqvKq3hWemX0PzJTfSyGTTNvptZiUQMhMWUY/s320/0112080214-main_Full.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429670698798325570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3KPc83LGTpyqvzaZwZpXDiKEQl5C3EZQ4tc2OY0hySciirOGCeN6maGvU-s9Sv4-hHOCdqaJPiUhtd2v9UDpNEoPtTF-4LXuAOo6PBSa5lRf4NF29Xy4bCpn31NPt83AKGSI_3QSK58/s1600-h/va2tulle_small.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3KPc83LGTpyqvzaZwZpXDiKEQl5C3EZQ4tc2OY0hySciirOGCeN6maGvU-s9Sv4-hHOCdqaJPiUhtd2v9UDpNEoPtTF-4LXuAOo6PBSa5lRf4NF29Xy4bCpn31NPt83AKGSI_3QSK58/s320/va2tulle_small.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429670691805078466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBQ6ifoXJjJpDHbWZaUIIQU69gbAdVvVUi2yw2c6dwla6wCTnfdufRg3zV99PgBG1G0P4mu7v7UPCIDxxQM8jDiNXrBVH56yzRs_-0k2G2fGqtOb-N7ghqnWb4-kNLi9x1zw6SurDxpw/s1600-h/veils.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBQ6ifoXJjJpDHbWZaUIIQU69gbAdVvVUi2yw2c6dwla6wCTnfdufRg3zV99PgBG1G0P4mu7v7UPCIDxxQM8jDiNXrBVH56yzRs_-0k2G2fGqtOb-N7ghqnWb4-kNLi9x1zw6SurDxpw/s320/veils.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429670689285900354" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmlJU5GQklAZIVbxq1YaPYUU4EgLNcFY04YbPvqlSuWaj7eVgm9Thn3PCSGNOU_lfzXoxHsqUI8gu1gLqwsu6KtINRqa5E6f1Rn7Qb8RLHOoaekDn1P8aEeuRQelPavN0DeGBO-mJIKdc/s1600-h/veils_length.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmlJU5GQklAZIVbxq1YaPYUU4EgLNcFY04YbPvqlSuWaj7eVgm9Thn3PCSGNOU_lfzXoxHsqUI8gu1gLqwsu6KtINRqa5E6f1Rn7Qb8RLHOoaekDn1P8aEeuRQelPavN0DeGBO-mJIKdc/s320/veils_length.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429670682204227106" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaa_5ad3GX3bClj5qv2b9A60xgXZs-Ep9Ut07E01HIgFOtTkv-0nRmoEn0LZ_VC71zd_00XjQgw52mZb6KY6PIWJuN_V1ZpD8ZGuKaayG8H2v0fRMCyqpijcLEaP47UHd73HZhyYei9I/s1600-h/Know-How-veils.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaa_5ad3GX3bClj5qv2b9A60xgXZs-Ep9Ut07E01HIgFOtTkv-0nRmoEn0LZ_VC71zd_00XjQgw52mZb6KY6PIWJuN_V1ZpD8ZGuKaayG8H2v0fRMCyqpijcLEaP47UHd73HZhyYei9I/s320/Know-How-veils.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429670678077751058" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></i></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;color:#000099;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Are you the type that has dreamed of your wedding since you were a little girl? Surprisingly, almost everyone I know never had "Wedding Fantasies" as a child. If you have been envisioning exactly what your day will look like since you were young-that is great! If not, join the club...</span></i></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Here are some awesome tidbits about veils; what lengths mean what, what other hair-piece options you have etc...</span></i></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">-Longer veil are more formal...</span></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;color:#000099;"><i>-If your dress is more informal, a longer veil will be contradictory-opt for a fingertip or waist length veil<br /></i></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">-Short birdcage veils are classy and cute, yet very vintage and representative of prestige...</span></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-style: italic; font-family:arial, serif;font-size:small;">-You can easily replicate lace on your dress on the hem of your veil</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-style: italic; font-family:arial, serif;font-size:small;">-Borrowing a relative's veil is a great way to check off your, "Something borrowed" or "Something old" category!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-style: italic; font-family:arial, serif;font-size:small;">-Traditionally, brides would cover their face with the veil & as the Father is giving away his Daughter there was a ceremonial lifting of the veil and kiss... Many do not adhere to this veil-over-the-face tradition currently, but still exchange Father-Daughter kiss to symbolize giving her hand in marriage...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-style: italic; font-family:arial, serif;font-size:small;">-Don't forget, you always have the option to wear a feather headband, jeweled tiara, beautiful bows or ribbons, ornate barrette, family heirloom etc</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;color:#000099;"><i><br /></i></span></div></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-452828295666875342010-01-19T15:43:00.002-07:002010-03-11T11:57:10.457-07:00MissNowMrs Online Married Name Change Service<a href="http://missnowmrs.com/">MissNowMrs Online Married Name Change Service</a><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Awesome website, and there are many more resources for inundated Brides.. If you are unsure of how to change your name, or any other question you might have, don't be afraid to ask!! </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>It is easier in the short term to not deal with an issue, but in the long term it is better to just get it over with! Plus, you'll only become more confident and knowledgeable when you ask questions and learn answers... Go on, take on that big scary world :)</b></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-50899449529870545782010-01-08T11:54:00.007-07:002010-01-08T12:48:43.980-07:00Don't look a gift horse in the mouth!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGHx2Korrp_ACC0ZK35bIh_kYYKW3T5lHds4kvDvHy0ONtje1hjxkTzidiIqN3xHjHsWYOX7JYnjBCt0eTjFM7I_nAN04ik15QHt2q3C5rydW6u0LWvvsZSRZ5VapO9lybBFgmM9X5QI/s1600-h/191c5_6a00d8341c630a53ef0120a623b7c6970b-600wi.txt"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGHx2Korrp_ACC0ZK35bIh_kYYKW3T5lHds4kvDvHy0ONtje1hjxkTzidiIqN3xHjHsWYOX7JYnjBCt0eTjFM7I_nAN04ik15QHt2q3C5rydW6u0LWvvsZSRZ5VapO9lybBFgmM9X5QI/s320/191c5_6a00d8341c630a53ef0120a623b7c6970b-600wi.txt" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424455708659621586" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cNLH6s4p-dsbWd9SNJTdis_suJ4YPQCsnSscd8jho1hSnIBiZZWdbAShMKCboul7e4LscDlDiCoPQcO_IYY6gRj2HQwViBwJ1Lqs0Z6wOyMS_8L2x0rzeXqjk0WJmUyINILdAiwq3fc/s1600-h/2590300096_1d02b0f50e.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cNLH6s4p-dsbWd9SNJTdis_suJ4YPQCsnSscd8jho1hSnIBiZZWdbAShMKCboul7e4LscDlDiCoPQcO_IYY6gRj2HQwViBwJ1Lqs0Z6wOyMS_8L2x0rzeXqjk0WJmUyINILdAiwq3fc/s320/2590300096_1d02b0f50e.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424455705605807314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRX_3XTX0cPpsFo1tVz4_WyKsIVCz0WEdZR7FPxR6QyjdM_qTDyYxRoWNMXBDHBSu6jT6xpJE3g4s6Yqbn7y4oX6QRHkG4gy80KBAXnUZh7l4apxkcmC7LhnaVdvldnSwjRQ49ttlpTRA/s1600-h/SWbluefish2_linOat.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRX_3XTX0cPpsFo1tVz4_WyKsIVCz0WEdZR7FPxR6QyjdM_qTDyYxRoWNMXBDHBSu6jT6xpJE3g4s6Yqbn7y4oX6QRHkG4gy80KBAXnUZh7l4apxkcmC7LhnaVdvldnSwjRQ49ttlpTRA/s320/SWbluefish2_linOat.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424455703424497202" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know about you, but I am not the biggest fan of mass-produced monogrammed nick-knacks. I really enjoy giving gifts that actually pertain to the person receiving the gift. Sure, I'll admit I gave all of my bridesmaids monogrammed slippers... BUT, (not only did they wear the slippers on the dance floor at my wedding), they actually wear them frequently, like them and enjoy them. What I dislike are all the bells and whistles that wedding websites convince brides to buy. Some of it is fun, but most of it is redundant and unoriginal. <div><br /></div><div>So, how to be unique and special? Consider your wedding location: are you having a destination wedding? Are you having a special theme wedding? To show your gratitude to the people who helped make your event great, a functional item might be just right.<br /><div><br /></div><div>For example, one of my great friends is planning her July 2010 wedding in Minnesota. She grew up on a lake and their wedding is very much going to be a 'lake-side' wedding. Her fiance plays for the NHL and is very gear-conscience. She had the brilliant idea to give her bridesmaids Sperry Topsider boat shoes. Not only can the girls wear them during the wedding weekend festivities, but they are also great quality shoes that will last for years to come.<div><br /></div><div>If you're having a simple affair that isn't really theme-driven, consider the bridesmaids and groomsmen and whoever else you are buying gifts for: what are their likes and dislikes? It is totally kosher to give a gift to your Maid-of-Honor that has nothing to do with the wedding. If she is enamored with a certain Farmers' Market in your neighborhood--plan a special trip to the Market together and buy her groceries. Or if you are artistic, paint a picture of the Farmers' Market during a busy morning... there are a multitude of ways to turn an uncomplicated pleasure into a daily reminder of your appreciation to her.</div><div><br /></div><div>A spectacular option is to give gifts related to a cause. I knew of a bridesmaid's mom who had Breast Cancer, so the bride and groom's gift to whole wedding party was to donate money for everyone participating in a local 5k for Cancer research, very cool. This is not only for a purpose and will help research, but it is also a great way to bond with your wedding party in non-wedding related events. Not to mention cardio exercise is a ridiculously good way to blow off some steam and wedding-related stress.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another great idea, depending on your budget, is Wine of the Month club. Many people out there enjoy a good bottle of wine, what better way to remind them monthly of your appreciation? There are many "of-the-month-clubs" with other products such as cheese, fruit, book, album etc... </div><div><br /></div><div>So you see, thinking outside the box has its short term and long term benefits ;)</div></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-67880703205192910142009-12-30T15:06:00.007-07:002009-12-30T15:31:25.894-07:00Watch the beverage, man!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqu0qhCy0fdiZ19DMTDHXlIsqaz9c-YNBF-SxUMTjk-PbnSkV5qnLTjgKMwh9SC4PbIa-COCiQZ-Hh6W99nxVk-g9QEuJDyePXUG-UOcJWVJ8na-uXoK-RnQtwOUnleWdmd2QBUMGQJI/s1600-h/bottle-label-age.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqu0qhCy0fdiZ19DMTDHXlIsqaz9c-YNBF-SxUMTjk-PbnSkV5qnLTjgKMwh9SC4PbIa-COCiQZ-Hh6W99nxVk-g9QEuJDyePXUG-UOcJWVJ8na-uXoK-RnQtwOUnleWdmd2QBUMGQJI/s320/bottle-label-age.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421157619601706754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYH9COYKsGgDKaSJdLytk2Ep_Pwkce4jDpDfdZJuLoc3_FV82D_h2daJlr2FO43B6Xu4Q3YWRMW_LxDk9sunlMhTkLyTkE3AOTvdSM9wrIYPkmG6XilTXoVOcZg2L5C-aiucssteI5uo/s1600-h/22774831-22774833-large.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYH9COYKsGgDKaSJdLytk2Ep_Pwkce4jDpDfdZJuLoc3_FV82D_h2daJlr2FO43B6Xu4Q3YWRMW_LxDk9sunlMhTkLyTkE3AOTvdSM9wrIYPkmG6XilTXoVOcZg2L5C-aiucssteI5uo/s320/22774831-22774833-large.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421157612117087218" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58iRPnub3O_TdJDWylcj-YBo05sjs8w-yQK0V6YXCc-94VO0xuyaXS6ggIb14nrL5KltrSAoKCdZz4-efkvnIcnll0-m5hGFWb0LtYRACO67BXfEBvTbTehpm9wiSsS1Nptog8UFFuAo/s1600-h/Kahlua_White-Russian_s3x4_lg.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58iRPnub3O_TdJDWylcj-YBo05sjs8w-yQK0V6YXCc-94VO0xuyaXS6ggIb14nrL5KltrSAoKCdZz4-efkvnIcnll0-m5hGFWb0LtYRACO67BXfEBvTbTehpm9wiSsS1Nptog8UFFuAo/s320/Kahlua_White-Russian_s3x4_lg.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421157607864392514" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6hsSJDERhu8-mbl8kMYGNITyb1T3XIrWxx-U60LP7Y1BbwcitDNmajGyS_iarSbuUPMF1s_cVJht5cLC5e7N01DV5pY0dYFS0HaX1MVjgfhUd-ysia6-8JG4NVeKntu9sE42-fxUKBs/s1600-h/white_russian.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6hsSJDERhu8-mbl8kMYGNITyb1T3XIrWxx-U60LP7Y1BbwcitDNmajGyS_iarSbuUPMF1s_cVJht5cLC5e7N01DV5pY0dYFS0HaX1MVjgfhUd-ysia6-8JG4NVeKntu9sE42-fxUKBs/s320/white_russian.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421157605898172130" /></a><br /><b><i><br /></i></b><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i>White Russian, Katrina style:</i></b><div><br /></div><div><i>Ingredients</i>: </div><div>1 part Kahlua </div><div>2 parts Vodka</div><div>1 part Light Cream or Milk</div><div>1 part Frangelico (Hazelnut Liqueur)</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Directions</i>:</div><div>-Mix Vodka, Frangelico & Kahlua over optional ice cubes</div><div>-Pour cream or milk over concoction</div><div>-Mix, if desired... then drink</div><div><br /></div><div><b>A... B... C... Easy as 1... 2... 3...</b></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Fun Variations:</i></div><div>-Try Godiva Vodka or Vanilla Vodka</div><div>-Any type of coffee liqueur is yummy, Kahlua flavors all mix well</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great signature beverage for Cocktail Hours or Reception Bars. It is a great after dinner choice because it has a nice coffee/cream taste, without being too coffee-ish. Some only enjoy this cocktail during the Winter months, but we smart people know that it is spectacular year around ;)</div><div><br /></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5857439518962188287.post-45002982701096207692009-12-29T18:54:00.008-07:002010-01-07T20:25:46.850-07:00Happily Ever After is the tricky part...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfCXAD3HofFRJxJJCPfjg2PRPVTv0n_zRf8TjbkcHZoAby4R4TgdHgmBSNhXuSUezup-iNH4w0kB8SV3c9U244fKVFpRQQj_s-pisCvkToIBCTneN8ijQFhZ06qsl9Lfwdohhf_D7dQ2A/s1600-h/old_couple_3413123.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfCXAD3HofFRJxJJCPfjg2PRPVTv0n_zRf8TjbkcHZoAby4R4TgdHgmBSNhXuSUezup-iNH4w0kB8SV3c9U244fKVFpRQQj_s-pisCvkToIBCTneN8ijQFhZ06qsl9Lfwdohhf_D7dQ2A/s320/old_couple_3413123.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424203309875483730" /></a><br />So, everyone is talking about 2010.... so futuristic... so weird... time keeps flying by... <div><br /></div><div>"Time seems to go so slowly, and then all of the sudden, everything has changed." One of my college professors told my Political Science class, the day when a few of the suave university basketball players meandered in late.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Punctuality may not be important to you now, but you're going to be old one day, believe it or not. Wrinkly skin, sagging muscles, age spots on your epidermis... You know what I predict will be a stand-out memory in your mind? You're going to look back at your youth and remember how you were always late for my class, and how because of that, I failed you." Without another wasted word on the topic, my professor turned to the dry-erase board and started jotting the day's lecture outline. </div><div><br /></div><div>The basketball players looked confused, burped and again meandered out of the class room. As if that is normal? Maybe that moment in history won't stand out to those basketball players compared to other moments in their lives, but I am sure it has to at least make their <i>Top 5 Most Embarrassing Moments</i> list. Hopefully their wedding day, child's birth, winning awards, graduations, (if that ever played out), birthdays, and just special moments with family and friends are among the times those basketball players remember when they look back at their youth. But, just as those guys took their college professor for granted, (which led to them failing a class), people can take other people for granted... which leads to failed relationships, most notably, the scary D-word.... <i>divorce</i>.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Oprah did a whole segment on life after the wedding. She talked about how many couples put on the horse blinders during the wedding planning phase, hence ruining their relationship. People can focus so much on the wedding and not thinking about life after, which is the point of the wedding in the first place---correct?<div><br /></div><div>If you think life will be different after a wedding, think again. Some people do change after they get married and become more devoted to their spouse, but many times people are disappointed to learn that their Prince Charming is still that frog they kissed a long time ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of my dearest friends just called me as I was writing mid-blog... She happens to be newly engaged to a lovely British man and planning a December 2010 wedding. While we were on the phone, she reminded me of one of the bajillion reasons I respect and love her... We were talking about her dress ideas, her wedding likes and dislikes, her concerns with having a small-town-America wedding while her fiance's family was flying in from all over London and the world... and she said, "I am so excited!"</div><div><br /></div><div>I said, "Well, yeah! This is what you want right?"</div><div><br /></div><div>"Duh, Christy! I am happy about the wedding and everything, but I mean I am <i>excited</i> for <i>afterwards</i>... the whole<i> being married</i> thing."</div><div><br /></div><div>GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE!</div><div><br /></div></div></div>Christy Waltershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14439937513040028883noreply@blogger.com0