Planning

Nautical wedding favors for your Beach Wedding

April 17, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Sand and Shell Tealight Holder.JPG A wedding is an affair that everyone will always remember. Family and close friends gather together in order to witness the promise of love and loyalty between two people. And so, every aspect concerned with the wedding itself should be planned to perfection. If the wedding invitation is the appetizer or the sneak peek to the wedding itself, then the favors are the dessert. So, just like the wedding stationery, careful thought should also be put into the favors.

The most popular way for couples to tie the knot is through a destination wedding. It is romantic, whimsical and fun at the same time. But when it comes to planning what kind of wedding favors to give away that suits the atmosphere of the ceremony itself, the couple usually have a hard time deciding on what to choose. Few recognize the artistic freedom this kind of wedding gives. A couple could go for beach-inspired favors complete with shells or lean towards the more sophisticated nautical wedding favors.

What exactly are nautical favors?

When people think of the word nautical, what usually comes to mind are sailboats, stripes and the occasional seagull. For most people, they usually choose a nautical theme since it is a combination of both elegance and comfort. Its laidback style appeals to many people young and old alike. If a beach wedding is what you have in mind or you simply just want a nautical-inspired wedding, then the giveaways shouldn’t be a far cry from the theme itself.

Handcrafted Wooden Sailboat Frames.JPG Most people, when faced with the decision of choosing the wedding favor that would coincide with the wedding, usually just opt for the seashell or other such critters found in the ocean. But, for those who aren’t satisfied with this sort of wedding favors, one should think outside the box. A ceramic seashell or starfish inside a frame, a mini dolphin-shaped cake or even a piece of chocolate made to look like a boat are some ideas that would make for a standout giveaway. But, these ideas sound expensive, so, for the thrifty couple, these ideas could be toned down but are still as memorable. Say, instead of the ones mentioned before, you could just give away a seashell encrusted picture frame, cupcakes with little dolphins at the top or chocolate seashells inside a mini treasure chest. The ideas are endless.

Outside the box

After deciding on what favor you would like to give to guests, a couple should immediately decide on the way they would like to present the favor idea. Would you put it in a box, a treasure chest or in a large clam? The presentation is very important in order for the favors to really have that oomph or x factor. It also adds an element of surprise as to what’s inside the container.

When a unique item still wouldn’t do

Another option is to make the wedding favors yourself. There are many people out there who like making things themselves and if you are one of them, then it wouldn’t be a surprise that you’d rather make your own favors that are to be distributed to guests. Just a quick reminder: do plan ahead of time in order to be stress free during the ceremony itself. It is also a good idea to have friends and relatives over to help with the creation of the wedding favors.

But, since there are also those couples who are busy and do not have ample time in their hands. These couples usually just order online. If you belong to that category but still want to create a stand-out favor, then you can still add a personal touch by gluing a seashell here or a faux pearl on the side.

Just remember that when choosing the wedding favors, be sure that it is what you as a couple like and it is a representation of your personal tastes and preferences. Also, if nautical wedding favors are what you have in mind, then make sure that you still let your creative juices flow in order to make a unique and chic wedding favor.

Filed Under: Beach Weddings, Blog, Cheap Wedding Favors, Wedding Themes

Why Opt For Blank Wedding Invitations?

April 15, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

A wedding invitation is similar to an entrée or appetizer in a sense that it gives guests a sneak peak or preview of what to expect during the wedding. An all-white and lace bedecked invitation could suggest a white or even a traditional Victorian wedding. While an invitation with Hawaiian hibiscuses would simply scream destination wedding in a tropical paradise. A couple’s taste can be seen in an invite, so for the artistically inclined, a store-bought and common invite simply wouldn’t do. Opting for blank wedding invitations could be the solution to that problem.

When to decide and get started
Right after a couple decides on their theme or chosen motif, whether it be a seaside wedding, backyard wedding or even a Hollywood-inspired wedding, it is important to note down the next important aspects of the wedding: the all-important written request to come, the dress, the wedding cake and so on. This is also the right time to decide on whether to choose to buy empty or blank encouragements for the guests or just choose from a variety that a store has.

Why buy blank invites?
A wedding’s every aspect is an expression of the couple – from the cake down to the wedding dress. So if a couple opts for a store-bought invite that looks very common and unmemorable, what would that say about their personalities? Also, when one starts from scratch and puts into mind every detail of a wedding, including the invite, it gives the couple a chance to bond and share those moments together. It is also important to note that little details like a seashell or a cluster of wildflowers would give guests an idea of what to expect at the nuptials.

It is way cheaper, need I say more?
Deciding on making invitations yourself will definitely be cheaper, except if you make use of very expensive materials. It will also be harder and will take more time. But with the help of a computer, you can create a spectacular, one-of-a-kind and priceless invite that you can show off to your future kids and proudly say that you created it.

Make it unique and extraordinary
After choosing to work with blank wedding invitations, one should remember that the paper itself is like a solid foundation to a house – it should not be easily damaged but at the same time it should be a beautiful expression of the couple’s preferences or taste. The next thing that should come to mind is the color. A catchy color combination, like pink and green or a very classy and traditional one, like white and black, is also an important consideration that would make for a stand-out invite. Also, one shouldn’t forget whether to go for a traditional envelope or something new and innovative to use as a container to make for something truly unforgettable.

While you’re at it, why not construct your own wedding program?
If you are up to it and you feel that you can finish everything on time, then why not? If your invitations and programs are made by different people (you made the invites while you had your programs made by others), then there’s a possibility that the over-all look wouldn’t be coordinated. This is also the chance for you to make this a family affair. Couples could invite their aunts, nephews or cousins over and let them pitch in their ideas. This is the perfect time to get to know the in-laws or vice-versa. Just don’t forget that you as a couple should make the final decision when it comes to design, construction and over-all look of the wedding programs.

Other things to put into consideration
Other things that you can make (for those who have extra time on their hands) are seating cards. If you have a good handwriting, then making use of cursive characters will make for elegant yet simple seating cards. Or you can make use of Photoshop and release your inner artist and create unique designs and patterns. But the most important thing to remember is that while making these things, you should always have fun. Also, you should try to visualize your dream output while looking at your blank wedding invitation; just like an artist does before his/her own empty canvass. You never know, but a totally random thought could be the start of a really creative design.

Filed Under: Canadian Wedding Supplies, Wedding Invitations, Wedding Planning

Wedding on Lido Beach in Sarasota Florida

April 9, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Lido Key in Sarasota Florida is just like any beach in Florida. A lot of sun worshippers are to be seen during daylight, and by night, clubs steal the show. But that doesn’t mean that Lido beach cannot provide a solemn, peaceful but light-hearted atmosphere that most couples long for.

A wedding on Lido beach in Sarasota Florida is the perfect setting for a dream wedding to come true. There are lots of pristine beaches complemented by white sand – and the people are equally warm and beautiful. But all beaches are open to the public and no areas could be closed off. But rest assured that all spectators will not interrupt your dream wedding and will probably just look from a good distance. It also doesn’t hurt that Lido key is a conservative place in Florida, thus, there’s a law that does not allow sun worshippers to wear thongs at the beach. With that in mind, you can be assured that all eyes will be on you, the bride.

When to plan

After the both of you have decided on a beach wedding in Lido Key, action must be taken immediately. If you live in or near Florida or you know someone who lives in Florida, then it is okay to plan the wedding yourself. But if you’re nowhere near Florida or do not have extra time on your hands, then hiring a professional is a must. There are lots of wedding planners who’d take care of everything from the priest or officiate, down to the wedding cake. But that would cost a lot of money. So, another good idea is to search the internet for companies who specialize in beach weddings (in Florida). Although the cost is cheaper, not everything is included in the packages they offer. Usually, the food or the reception area is not included. They would only provide for the wedding ceremony itself. A typical package would consist of: the one who would officiate the wedding (with a choice of male or female), the photographers, chairs, arch and other decorations such as candles or flowers. So, a destination wedding would really prove to be harder to plan than if you had your wedding nearby. But surely, this kind of wedding is a lot more fun than your typical nuptials.

No set of rules

There are no set rules when it comes to dressing up. As the bride, or as the groom, you could always wear a fun princess gown with a matching tiara or your tuxedo. But, as far as beach weddings go, heels or clothes that make you look too uptight are a no-no. Most couples even go as far as being barefoot at their own weddings. Also, the motif is always the first question that comes to mind. Most couples still want their wedding to be elegant and appropriate-looking. The good news is the beach can also be dressed up to look as elegant as possible with a beautiful column arch or beautifully arranged flowers and decorations. Just remember that it’s your call.

Unwanted circumstances

A beach wedding is just like any wedding, so, like all weddings, a lot of unexpected things could happen. Like, after a sunny afternoon was forecasted, rain could suddenly pour. What should you do in order to prevent rain from ruining a wedding? Have a set of plans of course, because you cannot just postpone a wedding at the last minute. Contact the nearby church to inquire about this worst-case scenario or you could just have your wedding at the reception area. It’s all up to you. Also, positive thinking doesn’t hurt either.

Everything is accounted for

After everything is planned according to your taste, then now is the time to look into the details. Is the wedding gown too long? Will the beads hold up? For a special occasion like a wedding, it’s just right that you pay attention to details. Lastly, for a truly spectacular wedding on Lido beach in Sarasota Florida, make sure that you lighten up, soak up the sun and breathe in the air; don’t stress too much, because that is what makes a beach wedding a very fun and memorable experience.

Filed Under: Beach Weddings

Beach Wedding Favors for a Dream Wedding Come True

April 8, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Authentic Shell Placecard Holders_1.JPG The serenity of the beach and the vastness of its beauty are just one of the many reasons why couples, or most brides, dream of a wedding on the beach. The gush of wind playfully caressing your hair and the rhythmical dancing of the waves in the ocean make the wedding all the more an intimate and magical experience. Since you are planning a beach themed wedding or a seaside or lakeside nuptial, you want everything to be picture perfect—from the dress, cake, down to the beach wedding favor that you will give your guests.

Wedding favors are essentially keepsake gifts that you give your guests and everyone who will join your celebration as a token of appreciation. They may be simple, decorative, or personalized wedding favors that will make guests remember your very special day.

Speaking of personalized wedding favors, you want to add a personal touch to the souvenirs that you will give your guests. You can do this by adding a tag, a note, or an etching that spells out your names, the wedding date, and even a romantic quote and a thank-you message.

Then again, before you can actually know what favor you will give your guests, it is important to explore ideas on the color and specific theme. Since the theme of the wedding is the beach, the colors can range from sandy bronze, turquoise, to aqua azure hues. If you already have a clear idea of the color schemes that you want, then it will be easier to incorporate everything in making or purchasing a beach wedding favor.

Flip-Flop Luggage Tag in Beach-Themed Gift Box.JPG Beach wedding favors come in various designs, styles, and sizes. Since different people have different preferences, it is wise to choose between two approaches regarding favors. One is for those who are creative and wants to make their own favors by letting their imagination flow freely. The other approach is for those who want to purchase ready-made favors and add customization or personalization.

Creative and Crafty

One advantage of making your own keepsake for the guests is that you will have a DIY wedding favor that is extraordinary and very unique. Since the creation of the favor is all up to you, you can be as innovative as you’d want to be. However, you must be careful not to go overboard with your designs and color choices, (talk about getting way too creative!) because you might end up making a wedding favor with an entirely different theme. Now, you don’t want that, do you?

If you have the luxury of living near the beach location of your choice, then you’re in luck! Go out there and gather sand, sea shells, and twigs. Also, take images of the sea, and use these snapshots in making your wedding favor. For example, you can make shell decorated photo albums or shell portrait frames. You can also use empty bottles and fill these with ocean sand and sea shells. In this way, the guests will feel like even after they leave your beach wedding, they still have the ocean with them.

Palm Tree Cookie Cutter in Beach-themed Gift Box.JPG However, if you don’t live near the beach, you can just opt to go to a craft store and look for the things that you will need. Search the internet, ask your friends and read magazines.

Buy Me, I’m Well-Done!

Choosing to get ready-made favors doesn’t mean that you can’t be as creative. There is a wide selection of beach wedding favors that you can purchase and then personalize for your own distinctive taste.

There are starfish tea lights, shell cardholders, luminous coasters, and even candles and candle holders. Candles and candle holders are popular choices among couples, because they add sensuality and a more romantic feel. A flip-flop sandal photo frame stand is also nice gift to your guests, because of its uniqueness. You can also give colorful beach bags to your female guests and leather or sea shell key chains to your male guests.

Yummy treats can also be made as wedding favors. Cookies, chocolates, and candy bars that are shaped into starfishes or any beach themed item will surely delight kids and adults with a penchant for sweets. Personalize these edible gifts with your names and the wedding date.

Make your wedding memorable not only for you, but also for everyone else that will share your celebration. Whether you decide to get crafty or buy ready-made beach wedding favors, make sure that you enjoy the experience.

Filed Under: Beach Weddings, Cheap Wedding Favors, Wedding Reception Decorations

Beach Weddings In Florida

April 3, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

A beach retreat usually is a pleasant one. The atmosphere itself offers serenity, peace and pleasure. It’s like being away from the pressures and troubles that you left behind. It becomes ‘me time’. What better way to celebrate ‘me time’ with your loved one, a wedding under the sun.

There seems to be one location at the tip of people’s lips when you mention ‘beach wedding.’ Florida, USA, white sugar beaches set the ideal platform for a truly magical beach wedding ceremony. Your backdrop will be emerald water and spectacular sunsets for couples of all ages. It will quite momentous for your guests as well. Who would pass up a weekend at the beach?

Make your fantasies come true! Whether your wedding fantasy is conventional or exceptional, let your creativity resolve on that magical place to commence your life together.

Florida has some of the loveliest beaches in the world. White powdered sand and resplendent sunsets, yes weddings on the Florida beaches are among the most well liked destination weddings. They don’t call Florida the Sunshine State for nothing. Weddings in Florida are among the most tropical weddings.

Central Florida is the perfect spot for destination weddings. Beach weddings in Florida can be as amorous or fun as you want them to be and Central Florida is the ideal spot for tropical and fun beach weddings. Whether you are seeking for a simple and private ceremony or you are organizing an official event, there is something for everyone. Don’t be startled to come across beach sand that transforms from powdery to lots of sea shells on the ground. For those of you ocean enthusiasts, the East Coast of Florida will provide you with the vivid sharp ski and ocean tones that will make your wedding photos stand out.

If you are fantasizing of a real sunset wedding, you’ll be amazed to know that the Clearwater Beach and St Pete Beach areas have the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. So if you are seeking for a real sunset wedding, you should without question try Clearwater or Saint Pete Beach vicinities. Clearwater Beach is near to many leading attractions. It has two international airports so; flying from anywhere is so handy. Driving is easy also. So what areas in Florida are well known for an ultimate wedding spot?

Destin Beach is a well liked wedding place in Florida as well. Pensacola Beach in Florida is a great place for any marriage ceremony. For great weddings on the beach, a wedding in Pensacola on the sugar white sand, barefoot at the beach is the way to go. Fort Walton Beach is another wedding place.

The dolphins also love to watch the sunset too! It is very normal to watch them leaping and having fun near the edge of the water right around sunset time. Beneath an arch ornamented with lovely white roses, beneath a tropical bamboo arch, beneath a gazebo or just the two of you standing in the sand, by the sea and the ocean waters striking your feet – your Florida beach wedding, your vows ceremony can be anything you want it to be.
It’s easy to plan a destination wedding and honeymoon all at one time.

Just visualize reclining on the beach with a tropical gentle wind drifting all around the two of you. There is nothing like a Florida Beach wedding, barefoot on the beach with the love of your life, interchanging wedding vows. Visualize yourself hand in hand with your bride or groom, as you saunter barefoot on the sugar white sand with sunshine shining off the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The emerald-green color of the water is due to the sugar-white beach color of the sand settled under the limpid blue water thus offering the area with great beach wedding backdrops. These will make a wedding day on the Florida coast beach a day to recall.

Interchange your wedding vows on the sugar white sand, barefoot on the beach are the most amorous and tropical marriages to have. The bride and groom will never fail to remember their exceptional beach wedding in Florida. Love and intimacy are two vital things to recall in a beach marriage. Love your new wife or husband as you love yourself. Florida’s beaches are the best places for tropical weddings!

Filed Under: Beach Weddings

Tips On How To Decorate A Beach Wedding

March 18, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Ever wanted to walk down the aisle with warm, soft sand beneath your feet, and waves hitting against the shore for music? We’ve all dreamt, at least once, of getting married on an exotic island surrounded by the resplendent turquoise ocean. Beach weddings are quite sought after because of the scenic and picturesque nature of the location. Wherever you decide to conduct your beach wedding – whether it’s at your family’s seaside residence or going off to the Caribbean islands – you’ll definitely want it to be the most unique and memorable experience of your life.

After deciding on how you want your wedding layout to look like, you could make use of elements found around the beach, like sand, seashells and even the wildlife, to help you achieve that look. Your beach wedding decorations should also reflect your personal style. If you are not too sure of what to do with the decorations, the following tips might just provide you with the inspiration you’ve been looking for:

1. You could opt to go for an enchanting ocean-themed wedding. Decorate your reception and ceremony area with sand, seashells (like conch), glass marbles, strings of pearls, and sea creatures. Anything you can get from the beach would give your wedding a much more authentic feel; other than that, you could get replicas from any supply store or even wedding retailers near you.

Use sand to adorn everything, from your invitation cards to the reception tables. Shells are absolutely gorgeous embellishments because they come in an assortment of colours, shapes and sizes. You could paste them to the hems of table cloths, press them into candles and you could even use the bigger ones to serve fruits or dessert, once they’re washed. Experiment with your shells and see what you can use them for. String pearls and glass marbles along the tables, on the shells and anywhere you can think of! Place glass bowls with ocean water, sand, seashells, pearls, marbles and live fishes, in the middle of tables. It’ll be an interesting and lively centerpiece for the guests to gaze at!

2. What about a tropical-styled wedding at the beach? To create a tropical atmosphere, all you need are palm trees, tropical flowers (such as verbena, hibiscus and bougainvillea), tiki torches and coconuts! Because beaches are already naturally surrounded by palm trees, you really don’t need to do much with it. You could twine an arch with the tropical flowers or use them to decorate the reception tables and chairs. Fill empty coconut husks with sand and glue the tropical flowers all around the husk. Once that’s done, put a tea-light candle in the coconut. Tiki torches could be placed along pathways or to create a border around the reception area.

3. You could choose to go with a nautical theme. Anchors, nets, ropes, bottles, buoys, boats and oars are the things you’ll need to correspond with the theme. Rent boats from renting parlours which can be found about the island, and have them replace chairs at the wedding ceremony, instead of just using them as décors. Flip the boat facing down and have cushions secured onto the boat so that guests can sit comfortably. Swathe the dining place with nets and ropes; hang buoys and anchors from the nets to give it that unique touch. Slip little messages or beautiful quotes into clear, empty bottles to create a ‘message in a bottle’ effect.

4. If you like the sand and love to party, then you could arrange a few surf boards, colourful beach umbrellas, beach balls, pails and towels to create a ‘Beach Party’ theme for your wedding. Place the towels all around the beach for guests to sit on and set up the beach umbrellas for shelter. It may not be as formal, but it is a load of fun and guests can rip the waves and have a beach volleyball match while waiting for the barbeque to start up. You don’t have to fork out a fortune for your beach wedding decorations either!

Play around with your decorations before deciding on how you want your wedding arrangements to look and let your creativity run wild. Remember to incorporate every element of the beach to make your wedding every bit as fascinating and unforgettable for you and your guests.

Filed Under: Beach Weddings, Blog, Wedding Reception Decorations

Planning a wedding with ease

February 18, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Flowers, the bridal party, wedding venue, wedding decorations, caterers, photographers, wedding favors, wedding invitations, wedding cake, wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, the list of things which need to be done prior to the wedding seems endless and unforgiving, especially if you have little time on your hands. Where to start, what to do, how to go about doing it, with all these questions and list of things which need to be done, planning a wedding for a new bride can be nothing short of a major migraine.

The wedding day is supposed to be one of joy, bliss and happiness, and not many will realize when they attend the wedding exactly how much work is put into preparing and planning a wedding. And they especially don’t realize, especially if they have never been married before, how stressful the whole thing can be on the bride because she has so much to do in what seems like a short amount of time for her, especially if she has to deal with most of the things herself.

Actually, if you are a new bride, the tools you need to relieve your burden and make this whole process a lot easier on yourself are actually right under your nose if you know how to go about it properly. Once you have some sort of guide and direction, and a sense of what you need to do, it makes it much easier to map out the steps you need to take from there on out. And the first thing you need to start off with is not shopping for your dress, but to do your research.

Planning a wedding – or in fact planning for anything major- requires research. Research will help you get a good idea of what it should be, and will give you a few ideas here and there about how you want to go about organizing your big day. So get your hands on all the research material you can. Your best bets would be the internet (seeing as how you can find almost anything online these days), bridal magazines, bridal shows even as there’re a lot of those around nowadays too, and even get opinions from any friends you have who have already been married. No one can give advice better than those who have already gone through the whole process themselves.

Once you’ve got all your research done, you should already be able to plan out from there what needs to be prepared and things which have to be done before your wedding. The best thing to do is to list these things down. Write down everything you need to do and everything you need to buy. When planning a wedding, your checklist will become your bible, so keep it with you at all times and every time you think of something which needs to be done or bought, write it down before you forget. Remember no detail is too small to be on the list, as writing it down will make it much easier for you to keep track of things.

If you still feel you need some guidance, get a wedding planner. Wedding planners are the experts on all things to do with wedding and who better to help you with your wedding than the expert? They could put a dent in your budget, but it is better to go with one if you feel you really need it. Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime thing so it is alright to go all out for it. Planning a wedding is no easy matter as every new bride will eventually realize, so it is a good idea to allocate in your budget the fees for hiring a wedding planner if in the event you ever need one.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Just because it is your wedding day and you are supposed to be dealing with it, doesn’t mean you need to take care of every single detail single handedly. What are friends and family for if not to help you in your time of need? So ask them for help when you feel overwhelmed and feel you have too much on your plate to deal with, they will be more than happy to do so.

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Printable Bridal Shower Games

January 22, 2008 By Angela Leave a Comment

Bridal Shower Games are supposed to be fun. So why would you want to go through all the written material out there on the Internet and spend hours to put together the games for your guests? Check out these printable bridal shower games! It’s easy to download right on your computer, no sales tax, no shipping costs. Enjoy…

Bridal Shower Games to download

Filed Under: Blog, Bridal Shower Games

It’s fun time with bridal shower games

November 20, 2007 By Angela 1 Comment

Most unique games are a result of the creativity of some people. There are quite a number of different games on the market that are suitable for events such as bridal showers. Since there is a keen interest in having bridal shower themes then the bridal shower games played at the shower must incorporate the theme. Apart from the theme, there must be a link to the wedding or the bride. Is the game related to being married or is it the bride’s favorite game? Despite the reason behind the game there are some games that are evidently more difficult to play. If the guests are not familiar with each other suitable icebreakers must involve introduction of one another. Once the anxiety ice caps have melted the games can begin.

The multi-discipline of games unravels a better selection of potential games. Some games are more linguistically inclined involving scrabble or a word search whilst others require less brain power. A mixture that involves different types of games is the best alternative that caters for all the guests and leaves them begging for more.

An intriguing bridal shower game that will ensure that the guests take a keen interest into what the other party is saying is the “buzz word” game. At the beginning of the evening the host gives each guest a wedding bell and then selects a buzz word that must not be mentioned the entire evening, each guest who gets caught saying the word must give up their wedding bell. The guest with the most bells wins the game and the mystery prize. To make the game interesting the buzz word must be a wedding related word that the guests are prone to mentioning. There an also be a twist at the end with the mystery prize being an ice cold shower of bell shaped ice or every guest who gave up their bell to the guest gets the honor of splashing the winner with some sticky orange juice.

A game that taps into the design skills of the guests is the papier mache sculpture game which randomly puts together guests and gives each team a time limit to build a figurine which best depicts their interpretation of the bride. This interesting exercise can be both interesting and fun for the bride and guests as they discover how each views the bride. The sculptures will go into the bride’s collection – however, ladies, that don’t count as a wedding gift!

From tapping into their contemporary art sources, bridal shower guessing game. The game can be an open affair or the guests can be split into teams. Questions related to the bride, her family and him – the fiancé, will be asked. This tests the general bridal knowledge of the guests and could result in the best girl being changed – not really! Other quizzical games that test the guests general knowledge can be ready made games like “Who want to be a millionaire” and other thought provoking board games. Snakes and ladders is a fun game that can be altered to bouquets and garters – the wedding aspect makes the game more suitable for the bridal shower.

For those who are avid bingo fans, bridal shower bingo will turn up the temperature. Each guest is given a symmetrical card that has five boxes across and vertically. Each box has a word written on it and the middle box is the free square. As the caller calls draws cards with each word and calls them out. The first guest to cross out a vertical, diagonal or horizontal line of words wins the game and must call out “Bingo!” The rest of the guests will then have to wear ridiculous cone hats for the rest of the evening. The games can be varied and altered to meet the requirements of friends and the bride.

Apart from the usual line up there are more games that can be played. It all depends on the theme of the event as well as the likes and dislikes of the bride – she is after all the reason for celebrating. It’s only fair to indulge in some relaxing folly and calm down the brides nerves and have an excuse to let your hair down and have good old-fashioned fun.

Filed Under: Bridal Shower Games

Exchanging Your Vows at the Beach? An Introduction to Beach Themed Weddings

November 20, 2007 By Angela Leave a Comment

Cons of beach wedding:
Due to the outdoor setting, weather conditions may be attributed to either the success or failure of your wedding. Thus it is advisable to plan beforehand by selecting a date to avoid rainy season or prepare backup in the form of tents or alternative venues. In addition, the breeze and tide can be a hindrance in terms of looking perfectly gorgeous throughout the ceremony. Despite this being so, beach weddings can be extremely unique and special, with the opportunity of shining your personality instead of striving to look perfect throughout the ceremony.

Pros of beach wedding:
Having said these, the pros of having a beach wedding are of a considerable amount. Besides the notable merit of being very affordable, beach weddings also provide guests an opportunity to loosen up and dress in laid back clothes, thus avoiding the costs associated with outfits for weddings. In addition, the entire ceremony can be completed at the beach, without having to switch to different locations. Also, the constrained feeling normally associated with traditional weddings can be avoided, letting you and the guests to let go, relax and enjoy yourselves.

Due to the rare nature of beach weddings, some additional preparation should be done beforehand. Firstly, the notification of guests about the wedding location. This is to avoid the unnecessary hassle of fumbling for traveling and accommodation arrangements at the last minute. To make it easier for guests, it is recommended to plan for them as well. Also, research for any available wedding packages which might incorporate airline and accommodation in the plan is highly advised. By doing so, extra savings is possible because wedding packages are generally much cheaper than separate arrangements.

Beach Themed Weddings
The sight of a beach comes to mind at the mention of beach themed weddings. This may or not be the case for there is an abundance of space for creativity and originality, even if your wedding is not held at the beach. One of the main obstacles of having a wedding at a beach is the sand, breeze and tide, which may provide some discomfort. However, the beach can still be ingénue idea even if it held on a boat, at a marina, in a hotel, or a prominent fish tank, wherever your creativity leads you!

For the preparation, it is essential to enumerate the number of guests and what is needed beforehand. This is to avoid blowing away the budget on a few items and not being able to afford the rest. Here are a few basic particulars that need to be considered.

Invitations: The tool in the conveyance of the message to your guests – the theme for your wedding. Depending on your budget, retailers often provide for various types of invitations to choose from based on your theme. Or, as a cheaper alternative, bottles can be bought and the invitations – subject to one’s creativity – put into the bottles.

Decorative Items:
The theme will not be complete without the decorative items utilizing the beach theme desired. Some items worthy of consideration are rowboats to place the beverages, ice sculptures of fishes, mermaids etc, tiki lights, fishing nets or whatever that just screams beach!

Wedding Attire:
Should the venue be the beach, it is advisable to steer away from traditional wedding dresses that run the risk of being soiled. Instead, you can opt for sundresses, dresses with shorter hemlines or sarongs to suit the setting. For the groom, some fun ideas can be sailor outfits, pirates’, or even captains’. To up the ante on originality, you can even wear a mermaid outfit.

Food and Beverage:
As an obvious selection, seafood! What could suit a beach theme other than seafood? For the beverages on the other hand, they can be served with miniature umbrellas to further incorporate the theme.

Music:
Due conditions of the beach, it is recommended for a heads up to the wedding disc jockey to keep this in mind and have some preparations for the musical instruments and equipment to avoid any detrimental effects.

In addition, songs that give a “beach-y” feeling can be used. An obvious choice, is of course, the Beach Boys, but you can let your imagination run as to the perfect musical selection.

Favors:
On top of the fun wedding experience for your guests, extend it to them long after the ceremony is over by handing out favors that incorporate the theme. With so many favors to choose from, one can hardly be stumped by what to give. Keep your budget in mind if you do not intend to blow out a humongous expense on your wedding however.

Flowers:
Tropical flowers are perfect for this theme. There are many kinds to choose from, and you can always consult your wedding planner or florist on what works best for you.

Filed Under: Beach Weddings

Wedding favors, wedding themes, wedding supplies, bridal accessories, wedding cake toppers and more…

November 17, 2007 By Angela Leave a Comment

This article is a courtesy from MyDreamWedding.ca and will guide you in what you need to know about wedding favors, wedding themes, wedding supplies, bridal accessories, wedding cake toppers, bridesmaid gifts, groomsmen gifts and wedding planning.

The basic introduction is given to equip you with the knowledge required in making an informed decision to select the absolute best items required for your wedding.

Wedding Favors

Wedding favors are mementos given by brides and bridegrooms as a token of appreciation for attendance for the guests. As a norm, almonds, cookies and the like are given to the guests as wedding favors. Observed in recent times however, wedding favors have become increasingly personalized with items ranging from picture frames, coasters, personality boxes and many more.

Wedding Themes

In the process of selecting a wedding theme, some of the important considerations to be considered are, among others, time of the year, details of the engagement, favorite holiday destination, the desire for a formal or informal; modern or traditional wedding, the venue, flowers, favorite pastime and the dress. By adding up these considerations, the process of selecting a wedding theme will be much, much easier. Asian, butterfly, Western, autumn, fairytale are just a small portion of what the selected wedding theme can be!

Bridal Accessories

It is deemed essential for a bride to select her bridal accessories meticulously, for the attainment of the perfect bridal jewelry, tiara, purse, make up, veil, make up, shoes, and others. What can make it even harder is the wide selection of these items available in the market. One method to make it easier is to accommodate the theme unto bridal accessories as well. Still, it is also easier to search for some guides or tips to make the selection process easier. After all, comprehensive perfection should be strived for in one’s wedding and bridal accessories should not be considered as minor details whereby considerable efforts can be forgone.

Wedding Cake Toppers

Wedding cake toppers, along with their corresponding wedding cakes, can either make or break a beautiful wedding ceremony. Consider the event where every particular detail of the ceremony is set to perfection. However, an out of place wedding cake topper can ruin the effect of a beautiful wedding cake, seeing how they go hand in hand. Traditionally, wedding cake toppers consist of miniature statuettes of bride and bridegroom on top of an all white cake. In recent times, it is observed that a more diverse selection of wedding cake toppers are used, which can be from fresh flowers, crystals, monograms, fruits, colored leaves, and whatever that comes to one’s mind, depending on one’s creativity. Retailers often provide for a diverse selection of wedding cake toppers, which can accommodate the bride and bridegroom’s need to incorporate their personalities to make them more special.

Bridesmaid Gifts

Bridesmaids play an essential role in a wedding, they are there whenever one needs help in getting in and out of a wedding dress, also for the infusion of much needed excitement and joy in one’s wedding, at the same time calming and relaxing the bride whenever she gets the jitters. To show appreciation and gratitude for the bridesmaids, gifts are bestowed upon, normally during wedding rehearsals. It is desirous for bridesmaids’ gifts to be special and personalized to individual tastes and characteristics, and thus as an example a bridesmaid who loves to read will appreciate the thought of purchasing a good book especially for her. Due to the time consuming and unequal nature of purchasing different gifts for each bridesmaid however, matching gifts can be given out in the form of trinkets and tokens.

Groomsmen Gifts

Groomsmen, like bridesmaids play an integral role in the wedding. In the case of groomsmen, they provide the necessary support for the bridegroom. Also, like the bridesmaids, the role of groomsmen can be expensive, what with the traveling and lodging expenses, not to mention the costs of obtaining their own clothes for the ceremony. Thus, like bridesmaids, personalized or matching gifts in the form of cufflinks or personal grooming kits can be used.

Wedding Planning

The choice of whether to personally plan your own wedding or employ a wedding planner is up to you – each with its own pros and cons. The pro of planning your own wedding, is obviously, its money saving merits. However, it can be a stressful task, seeing how the nitty gritty details are involved such as choosing a wedding theme, shopping for wedding supplies and so on. A wedding planner, despite its costs, can help alleviate these stressors, because a wedding should be an enjoyable and memorable event, and therefore with a wedding planner to take care of the meticulous details, this can be further induced.

Filed Under: Bridal Accessories, Bridesmaid Gifts, Cheap Wedding Favors, Groomsmen Gifts, Wedding Cake Toppers, Wedding Planning, Wedding Themes