Write Your Own Wedding Vows 

Looking for ways to personalize your wedding ceremony? Consider incorporating your own carefully chosen words into the occasion. Writing your own vows is can be an ambitious undertaking - not only must you determine the perfect words to say, but those words must be rehearsed and recited in front of your closest family and friends on a day that will be one of the most important of your life.

It may be intimadating, but being able to recite personal promises from the heart - rather than the same tired words uttered by every other couple - makes the effort worthwhile.

To help you get started, this guide to writing your wedding vows has some useful tips to make the task a little less laborious.

Unique Wedding Decorations 

6 Alternative Decor Ideas

So you're not a froofy floral arrangement kind of bride - that doesn't mean you can't still have a wedding décor scheme that wows. Think outside the proverbial flower box with this list of blossom-free ideas for wedding decorations.

Love Visually -

Build a structure consisting of a bunch of different ornate frames with photos of not only you and your fiancé, but also parents and grandparents whose marriages serve as inspiration for time-tested love.

The Food Pyramid

Fill cylindrical glass vases with fruits and vegetables reflecting your colors. Oranges, lemons, and limes have been done, so try a unique, more contemporary look with mangos or coconuts - or tie it to the season with texture-rich earthy vegetables like husked corn, acorn squash, or artichokes.

Outside Looking In -

Give your guests something to really look at with goldfish swimming in aesthetically shaped vases. Consider building interesting mantels or use other species like Siamese fighting fish or white clouds. For their sake, add the water and fish right before the reception and return them to a bigger tank before the party's over.

Au Natural -

Consult Mother Nature for inspiration, and bring the outdoors in. Natural objects like stones, leaves, pine cones, even twigs can add an organic aesthetic to your reception décor. Place in rustic containers or scatter amongst pillar candles for added ambiance. This idea will nicely complement a fall wedding theme.

A Library Look -

Stacks of books intricately piled can work in a number of different ways. For sophisticates, choose antique leather-bounds. For a more fun approach, use kitschy romance novels. Or, tie it to your wedding location - if beach-side, go with maritime classics like Moby Dick and The Old Man and the Sea.

Wine-O -

Wine bottles and decanters create interesting focal pieces. Turn a wine bottle into a "lamp" by filling it with candle oil and adding a wick. Decorate the base of the bottle with bunches of grapes.

This article offers even more unique ideas for wedding decorations, or visit this complete guide to wedding flowers and wedding decorations.

Lets Grooms Get in on the Action Too! 

Throughout history, the guys had pretty much been relegated to the sidelines of wedding planning. But as more couples get married at an older age and fund their own weddings, the guys are starting to take a more active role in wedding plans. But traditional planning resources like bridal mangazines still seem to be lagging behind the times, targeting the majority of their advice and tips to the brides. So where's a guy to turn when he wants some advice on executing his share of the wedding plans?

This groom's wedding planning guide is a good place for guys to start, answering questions on everything from buying the ring and popping the question, to choosing groomsmen and making his wedding toast.

Wedding Toasts - Some Tips for the Bride, Groom, Best Man (or anyone with something to say) 

Now's the time to raise a glass - don't let your words fall flat!

There's nothing like a great toast. And nothing worse than an absolutely torturous one. Here's how to handle the speeches whether you're the bride, groom, best man or really any wedding guest...

What to Say (and not to say)
- Always thank the bride's parents. And both families for that matter.
- Thank the guests too since they make the day what it truly is.
- Look for a particular anecdote that quickly emphasizes a point you're trying to make. For the best man: a moment when the groom's personality truly shined.
- Funny is always good, but dirty or too risqué almost always falls flat.
- Inside jokes in front of hundreds of family and friends are pointless too.

Speaking Tips
Think back to the last time you gave a speech or presentation in front of lots of people. How nervous were you? Did you get on a roll when you had cues to rely on or was it better when you were speaking off the top of your head? This should be your guide as to how much time, thought, and effort you need to put into preparing for the speech. Beyond that, here are some tips:

- Even if you're a veritable John Stewart, think of what you want to say at least a day or two before the wedding.
- The good news is that your subject is something (or rather, someone) dear to your heart. Let that guide you.
- Try to avoid needing to memorize or type out the entire speech. Instead, use a few note cards and practice it a few times to get your rhythm.
- Perhaps the most important thing about a toast though, beyond its pithy stories and emotional moments, is its brevity. Keep it to 2-3 minutes max. Whether you're the bride, groom, best man, father of the bride, or maid of honor, this day obviously means a lot to you. And while it means something to all of the guests, it's not as big of a deal for them. So get to the heart of the matter quickly, and get out.

Looking for more advice on making a wedding toast? This complete guide to wedding toasts and wedding speeches will walk you through it.

Find tons of ideas for wedding hairstyles! 

Sometimes we brides just need a little inspiration when it comes to choosing our wedding day 'do. Thankfully, with this gallery of wedding hairstyles, you can while away the hours gazing at chic bridal coifs to find the one that suits your style.

Print the images you like and bring them to your stylist to recreate. It doesn't get any easier than that!

See my wedding story and photos featured on Elegala.com 

here's your sneak peek into a wedding editor's big day...

Sigh..after all the planning and anticipation, it's hard to believe the big day is already over. Want to see how it all panned out? You can view my real wedding story and pictures at Elegala.com.

If you're looking for even more inspiration from real weddings across the country, you can view wedding pictures from all types of events at this catelog of real weddings stories and photos.

Get weekly wedding planning tips delivered to your inbox 

Plan a Fourth of July Themed Wedding 

Brides - Book Your Venues! 

The Most Important Piece of the Wedding Planning Puzzle!

California Wedding Venues

Complete list of venues in Northern and Southern California

Atlanta/Georgia Wedding Venues

Complete list of Atlanta and surrounding area venues

New York Wedding Venues

Complete List of New York/NYC area venues

Boston/Mass Wedding Venues

Complete list of Boston, Cape Cod and other Mass wedding venues

Pennsylvania Wedding Venues

Complete list of Pennsylvania wedding venues, sorted by city/region

Connecticut Wedding Venues

Complete list of Connecticut wedding venues, sorted by region

Texas Wedding Venues

Complete list of Texas wedding venues, sorted by region

Wedding Venues - All Other States

Complete list of venues - includes all other states and regions.

Complete Wedding Planning Workbook and Checklists - Free Download! 

Print this handy, take anywhere planning workbook!

Let's face it-planning a wedding takes a lot of time and organization. It's easy to see why tasks from setting the budget, to creating the guest list, finding a reception hall, and planning your wedding day ensemble may overwhelm even the most "together" bride-to-be.

This printable wedding planning workbook from Elegala.com can get you through it all unscathed. The handy guide contains all the worksheets and checklists you need to make planning simple. Read it, Print it, put it in your binder or folder - it's yours to keep.

After you download your complimentary copy, you'll receive a step-by-step guide walking you through the entire planning process. There isn't any need for you to spend the next few months fretting about your wedding plans - just follow the easy instructions, use our checklists to ensure you've got it all organized, then sit back, RELAX and enjoy this time...

The Top 5 Ways to Save on Wedding Costs 

Get the Look For Less - Save in Style with these tips from a Wedding Insider

No bride wants a bland cookie cutter wedding, some just erroniously believe that their budget contraints won't allow for anything better. There are some easy ways to create the wedding of your dreams without breaking your wedding budget. You can still wow your guests. Here's how:

1) Cut the list, cut the list, cut the list!
The easiest way to drastically slice your costs is to shrink your guest list. Food and beverage costs are charged per person, and whether you serve filet and caviar or vegetable pasta and chicken wings, the cost will multiply by the number you are feeding. The cost of other items such as table linens, centerpieces, chair set up fees, cake cutting fees etc. is also based on the number of guests at your wedding. Fewer guests mean less spent on these wedding standards and more money available for those luxurious extras your guests will remember - the decadent chocolate fountain... the Rolls Royce getaway car...the sassy martini station...

2) Not ALL your best friends
In going with the "less is more" theme, reducing the number of attendants in your wedding party will also save money. Fewer attendants mean fewer bouquets, boutonnières, gifts, mouths to feed at your rehearsal dinner...and more cash in your pocket.

3) Lose the formality
A truly awe-inspiring wedding does not have to be black tie. A simple yet elegant beach wedding can be equally chic, and it lends itself to steel drums instead of a 10 piece orchestra, a casual buffet or barbeque instead of a 5 course meal, and simpler wedding attire - all of which can save some serious cash in your wedding budget.

4) Do it yourself
Lose the wedding coordinator, calligrapher, hair and makeup artists, made-to-order favors and welcome baskets, and create your own! You can save a lot of money on these services and use it towards something else.

5) Be an Off-Peak Bride
Avoid Saturday nights in June. It's cliché anyway. A wedding does not necessarily have to take place on a Saturday night in the spring or summer, and if you're willing to be flexible with your date and time, you can drastically cut your wedding budget.

For more budgeting tips and ways to save on all your wedding services, visit my Wedding Budget and Advice Blog

First Three Wedding Planning Steps for the Newly Engaged 

So he popped the question...now what?

If you've recently received an engagement ring - congratulations! Now it's time to scratch the first few items off your wedding day "to do" countdown.

Here are the first three wedding planning tasks you absolutely must accomplish before anything else. Cross these items off your wedding checklist - and you're on your way.

Step 1: Decide on a Budget -
Every decision stems from the wedding budget. Before you can plan anything, you must know how much you can spend and who plans to contribute. Your budget will determine the type of wedding you can have - from how many guests you invite, to where and when you host your wedding, right down to the specific blooms in your bouquet.

Step 2: Tackle the Guest List -
Some "checklists" suggest setting a date and commencing other wedding plans before this step, but the guest count is the most vital decision after the budget. Here's why: Capacity is one of the most important criteria in finding a suitable wedding venue - more so even than style and vision - and you must secure your location before you can successfully plan anything else. Cramming 300 people into a venue that seats 150 will not go over well. You don't need to have the list finalized just yet, but you'll need an estimate from both sides of the family (and yourselves) right away to avert countless planning headaches down the road.

Read the last Wedding Planning step at Elegala.com

How to Plan a Green Wedding 

Make your Green Wedding More Than Just a Trendy Fad

Sure, green weddings are all the rage, but the key is to make yours more than a trendy buzzword. It's easy enough to find recycled wedding invitations and serve organic cuisine, but you'll need to go the extra mile to make your wedding stand apart from the rest of the band wagon green weddings. Here are some tips to get you started:

Getting Started - Things To Consider:
Simplify - the overarching theme should be simplification. There are eco-friendly versions of most wedding products, but the best option is to forego the items altogether. Reuse wherever possible -and save not only resources, but cash too.

Weigh the expenses - that said, some items you just can't live without, and usually the natural, organic, or green version is more expensive than the original. You'll need to factor this into your wedding budget.

Patronize - many new companies have entered the growing green weddings market. Before booking your vendors, check out businesses that claim to provide green services and see if they really do.

Inform - one green turn deserves another. Let your guests know the steps you've taken to plan your green wedding, and show them that an elegant event doesn't have to be harmful to the environment.

All In The Details - Ideas:

Stationery & Invitations
Recycle - use recycled paper or paper made from alternative fiber - such as hemp or bamboo. Check out these resources for an array of custom, recycled papers: Custompaper.com or JamPaper.com

Splurge on calligraphy - calligraphy may cost more, but it saves inks, toners, solvents and chemicals involved in printing.

Condense - save trees by minimizing inserts and other paper products. Always print on front and back and try to fit it all on one sheet.

Go completely green - send all correspondence via email. The etiquette gods may swoon - but electronic mailings are the most earth friendly way to go.

The Location
Rent for a cause - find a venue that will benefit from your site rental fee - such as a museum, gallery or other cultural organization.

Go outside - a beach, the woods, gardens - they all make an ideal setting for a green wedding (just be sure to leave it as you found it).

Find a green venue - some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water and energy, reducing waste, and serving locally grown/organic menus. Check out these resources for green minded venues: Green Hotels Association or Green Seal

Get many more Tips on Planning a Green Wedding at Elegala.com

Popular Wedding Songs 

Here is a list of popular songs for your reception

These categorized lists of popular wedding songs will help you get started making your reception playlist.
Hint: you can find a more extensive list of popular
wedding songs at Elegala.com

First Dance Songs:
Amazed - Lonestar
From This Moment - Shania Twan & Bryan White
At Last - Etta James
When You Say Nothing At All - Allison Krause
All My Life - K-Ci & Jojo
I Knew I Loved You Before I Met You - Savage Garden
Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
It's Your Love - Tim McGraw & Faith Hill
My Best Friend - Tim McGraw
You're The First, The Last, My Everything - Barry White

Father/Daughter Dance Songs:
A Song For My Daughter - Ray Allure/Mikki Viereck
Because You Loved Me - Celine Dion
Butterfly Kisses - Bob Carlisle
If I Could - Ray Charles
Daddy's Girl - Red Sovine
Daddy's Hands - Holly Dunn
Daddy's Little Girl - Al Martino
Daughter of Mine - John McDermott
Have I Told You Lately - Rod Stewart
Isn't She Lovely - Stevie Wonder

Mother/Son Dance Songs:
A Song For My Son - Mikki Viereck/Donna Lee Honeywell
A Song For Mama - Boyz II Men
Because You Loved Me - Celine Dion
Boy Of Mine - Traditional
I Am Your Child - Barry Manilow

Cake Cutting Songs:
Chapel Of Love - Dixie Cups
Cut The Cake - Average White Band
Cuts Like A Knife - Bryan Adams
Eat It - Wierd Al Yankovic
The Bride Cuts The Cake - Traditional

Bouquet Toss/Garter Removal Songs:
Ladies Night - Kool & The Gang
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
It's Raining Men - Weather Girls
Another One Bites The Dust - Queen Bad Boys - Inner Circle
Bad To The Bone - George Thorogood

Last Dance Songs:
As Times Go By - Jimmy Durante
Goodnight Sweetheart - Spaniels
Always & Forever - Heatwave
Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life) - Green Day
Hit The Road Jack - Buster Poindexter

Wedding Readings - Popular Passages 

If you're writing your wedding vows or personalizing your wedding ceremony with meaningful readings, delve into the world of literature, poetry, quotes and lyrics for inspiration. Here are some sample passages to get you started...

Note: You can get even more weddings readings information at this complete readings, speeches, and toasts guide.

Poetry

William Shakespeare - "Romeo and Juliet"

My bounty is as boundless as the sea,
My love as deep; the more I give to thee,
The more I have, for both are infinite. William Shakespeare - "Sonnet 116"

Let me not to the marriage of true minds
Admit impediments. Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove:
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;
It is the star to every wandering bark,
Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken.
Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle's compass come:
Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,
But bears it out even to the edge of doom.
If this be error and upon me proved,
I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

Wilferd Peterson - The Art of Marriage

The little things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say, "I love you" at least once a day.

It is never going to sleep angry.
It is at no time taking the other for granted;
the courtship should not end with the honeymoon,
it should continue through all the years.

It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.
It is doing things for each other,
not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice,
but in the spirit of joy.

It is speaking words of appreciation,
and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo
or the wife to have the wings of an angel.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.

It is cultivating flexibility, patience,
understanding and a sense of humor.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere
in which each can grow.

It is finding room for the things of the Spirit.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is establishing a relationship in which
the independence is equal, dependence is mutual,
and the obligation is reciprocal.

It is not only marrying the right partner,
it is BEING the right partner.
This is "The Art of Marriage"

Cultural Heritage

Irish Wedding Blessing

May God be with you and bless you
May you see your children's children
May you be poor in misfortunes,
Rich in blessings
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward

Apache Wedding Blessing

Now you will feel no rain,
For each of you will be shelter to the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
For each of you will be warmth to each other.
Now there is no more loneliness for you,
For each of you will be comfort to the other.
Though you are two bodies,
There is but one life before you.
Go now to your dwelling place,
To enter into the days of your togetherness.
And, may the days of your life
Be good and long upon the earth.

Hollywood

When Harry Met Sally

I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

To Love and Be Loved

We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.

Moulin Rouge

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

The Notebook

The best love is the kind that weakens the soul, that makes us reach for more, that plants fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that's what you've given me. That's what I hope to give to you forever.

The Notebook

Poets often describe love as an emotion that we can't control, one that overwhelms logic and common sense. That's what it's like for me. I didn't plan on falling in love with you, and I doubt that you planned on falling in love with me. But once we met, it was clear that neither of us could control what was happening to us. We fell in love, despite our differences, and once we did, something rare and beautiful was created. For me love like that has happened only once, and that's why every minute we spent together has been seared in my memory. I'll never forget a single moment of it.

How to Save on Your Wedding Reception 

Get in Shape for your Wedding with the Latest Workout Trend for Brides 

New Bridal Bootcamps Help you Get in Shape for Your Wedding

Sometimes we need a little motivation to transform a bootylicious bod into a bride-a-licious bod. So you're not a gym bunny? Enlist in boot camp! Many boot camps are owned and taught by women and offer specific training sessions geared towards brides. These pre-nuptial programs can range from intensive weekend or week-long regimens to long-term fitness plans. So report to duty, and shape up for your wedding.

Where to find: These bridal boot camps are popping up all over the country. Here are some local suggestions around the US to get you started. As with all fitness programs, please consult your physician before starting a new exercise regimen:

1) Adventure Boot Camp for Women - Locations throughout the US - Offers four week programs that include one hour sessions Monday through Friday. Cost is $299 for a regular 4-week camp or $199 for a three-day-per-week program. AdventureBootCamp.com

2) FitBoot - Boston, MA - This program has a realistic military approach, but a supportive environment for women of all fitness levels. The course ($375) consists of 45 minute sessions every weekday for six weeks, and recruits must pass a physical fitness test at the end of camp. FitBoot.com

3) Fit to Be Wed Live - West Los Angeles/Beverly Hills, CA - Camp features 60-70 minute workouts 3 days a week for 4 weeks. Geared towards brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride and groom, workouts include lots of shaping and toning in those "key wedding gown areas" -- the arms, back, and shoulders. FitToBeWedLive.com

4) The American Boot Camp Company - Atlanta, GA - The 30-Day boot camp program includes 16 group workouts - each about 45 minutes. In addition, instructors monitor your daily food intake, helping you learn how to incorporate nutrition into an overall healthy lifestyle. (I'm currently enlisted in this - my first boot camp! I'll let you know how it goes). TheBootCampCompany.com

For more tips and advice to help you physically, mentally, and emotionally prepare for your wedding, visit the Elegala.com Emotionally Engaged Guide

Bridal Fitness 

Get in shape for the big day with these at home Bridal Workouts

Bridal Bootcamps are the newest fitness craze for brides-to-be striving to look sensational in a wedding dress. Report to duty - in the comfort of your own home - with these at home recommendations...

Bridal Bootcamp

by Cynthia Conde

Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 07/26/2008)

Bridal Workout: Shape Up Before You Ship Out

Amazon Price: $16.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

The Healthy Bride's Bootcamp Workout DVD

Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 07/26/2008)

Do you have your wedding day emergency kit ready? 

Even though you've planned for everything to go perfectly, you never know what unforeseen glitches may threaten your day. That's why packing a bag full of fast-fix tools will ensure your wedding goes off without a hitch.

Every bride should come prepped with these basic items in her wedding day emergency beauty kit!

Wedding Favors - What to Give 

Here are some of my favorite wedding favor ideas

Edible Treats
Everyone loves something to eat, so delight your guests with something sweet or savory. Chocolates, almonds and candies are always popular. Or give a regional favorite from your wedding location - peanuts in Georgia, Vermont maple syrup, or hot salsa in Texas.

Something Homemade
Along those lines - test your culinary skills and make a homemade jam or spread for your guests. (package them in festive customized jars!)

Quench Their Thirst
If your budget allows it, wow your guests with a nice bottle of wine, whether a selection served at the wedding or from a local winery. If you're really ambitious, consider making your own - and stamp it with a personalized label. This is one of our favorite wedding favor ideas! (plan ahead, this must be done at least 3 months in advance)

Entertain Them
Give your guests something that will forever remind them of your wedding day. Nothing brings someone back to a special moment quite like a song. So make wedding playlist, and feature songs from the ceremony and reception. Getting married in a place known for a great music scene? Feature selections from local artists. Or if the two of you just love music and want to share your tastes with your guests, make a cd of your favorites. Every time they pop it into the player, they'll think of you and what a great time they had at your celebration.

Personalize It
These days, almost any item or trinket can be personalized, so think of something creative that goes along with your wedding theme, and stamp it with your initials or wedding date. You name it; someone can customize it - golf balls, koozies, ornaments, seashells, matchbooks, candles or soaps. You're only limited by your imagination. We've even seen fortune cookies filled with personalized fortunes!

Give Something Back
Another one of our favorite wedding favor ideas: Some brides are foregoing the traditional favor altogether, instead making a donation to their favorite charity. You can print nice cards that read "in lieu of a favor, a donation has been made to xyz charity." Just be sure your chosen charity is legitimate, and get a receipt for tax purposes.

For more tips and ideas to help you plan your wedding favors, visit my complete Wedding Favor guide at Elegala.com

Find tons of Ideas for Wedding Favors 

Search hundreds of favors by price, theme or style

Often a stumper, details such as wedding favors often find themselves last minute on the wedding planning task list. Avoid the last minute panic, and browse through this convenient, interactive Wedding Favor search.

Here, you can sort by theme, style or price to view hundreds of favors that meet your criteria. Best of all - each wedding favor is linked to the online retailer where you can order them in time for your wedding.

Or if you're really unsure how to begin selecting your favors, visit this complete Wedding Favors planning guide - which includes budget tips, ideas and trends.

Find Tons of Ideas for Bridesmaids Gifts 

Interactive Image Search

They have done so much for you, not only as a part of your wedding party but also as a friend and confidant over the years. How to even begin to say thanks to your bridesmaids? Start by presenting your wedding attendants with heartfelt gifts to express your gratitude.

Looking for an inspiring bridesmaids gift idea? Look no further than through this convenient, interactive Bridesmaids Gift search. Here, you can sort by theme, style or price to view tons of gift ideas that meet your criteria. Best of all - each gift is linked to the online retailer where you can order them in time for your wedding.

Happy Shopping!

Wedding Dresses - Top Trends 

Today's Hot Wedding Dress Trends for the Modern Bride

Add Some Color
Using a wedding dress to bring out a colorful personality, modern brides are not afraid to add a splash of color to the traditional white gown. Whether that means adding a colored ribbon or piece of jewelry or foregoing the white wedding dress all together, today's brides find inventive ways to incorporate color into their wedding attire. Particularly popular shades are blue, pink, cappuccino and champagne.

Lace Up
Lace has made a recent comeback, exuding a look vintage romance that is feminine, yet not overdone. Many brides are enchanted by lace, envisioning a majestic day in a lush green garden.

Magnificent Embroidery
For an ultra elegant, opulent feel, glamour girls savor wedding gowns adorned with intricate hand-embroidered details. This look warrants grand chandeliers, candlelight and an isle of red roses.

Ultra-Feminine
As seen on the runway, feminine details are making a big impact. Ribbons, ruffles, flowers and bows are finding their way back onto wedding dresses and taking femininity to a new level. Brides who envision themselves floating along the cobblestones of a historic mansion will love this look.

Visit Elegala.com for more tips, photos, and trends in Wedding Dresses.

Wedding Dress, Wedding Gown and Bridesmaid Dress Search! 

Find Your Wedding Dress Here

When it comes to planning a wedding, we brides all know what is the most important (and fun!) task on your to-do list (and no, it's not the seating chart). Nothing beats shopping for your wedding dress. Thankfully, spending hours a day doing just that - from the comfort of your own home - just got a lot easier.

Look no further than this interactive Wedding Dress search. Here you can search thousands of wedding gowns by price, designer, fabric, silhouette, hemline, sleeve style - you name it. And while your there, you can even search for a Bridesmaid Dress, Mother of the Bride Dress, or Flower Girl Dress. Just don't blame me when your boss catches you surfing for dresses when you should be working :) Happy Hunting!

Wedding Ring, Engagement Ring and Bridal Jewelry Search 

Find Your Weddings Rings and Bridal Jewelry!

So you've got that sparkling engagement ring on your finger - now you just need a gorgeous wedding band to match. No doubt about it, adding some additional bling to your left hand is one of the more enjoyable tasks on your wedding day to-do list.

Here is a simple (and slightly addictive) tool to help you do just that: Visit this interactive Wedding Rings search. There you can browse tons of styles by price, metal, stone and stone shape. While you're there, you can also search hundreds of pieces to find an Engagement Ring (in case he hasn't popped the question yet), Wedding Band or other Bridal Jewelry and accessories.

Best of all - each product image comes with a complete description AND a link to the retailer where you can purchase your new baubles. Happy shopping!

Plan Your Wedding Flowers, Bouquets and Centerpieces 

Browse hundreds of images of wedding flowers in this interactive search

Sometimes we brides just need a little inspiration when it comes to choosing our wedding flowers and decor. Thankfully, with this interactive Wedding Flower search, you can while away the hours gazing at hundreds of stylish designs to find your Wedding Flowers, including your Bridal Bouquet, Centerpieces, Reception Decor and Ceremony Decor. You can even narrow your search by colors, blossoms and style.

Print the images you like and bring them to your florist to recreate. It doesn't get any easier than that!

Wedding Flowers - 3 Steps to Hiring a Florist 

Find and Hire the Right Florist in 3 Easy Steps

1. Do Your Research
   If you don't already have a favorite florist, researh and find local florists. Your wedding facility coordinator or recently married friends are a great place to start. Also browse Elegala.com's national directory of local florists for a complete list of preferred florists in your area. Once you have a list of local florists, make appointments to review their work and discuss your floral vision.
2. Meet with Potential Florists
   Plan to review portfolios and discuss your overall vision during your first appointments with potential florists. Your florist's previous work should match that vision. Remember that these portfolios showcase their best work, so if you don't like what you see, continue shopping. When these florists follow-up with proposals for your wedding based on your discussion, you should be able to make a decision on which best suits both your vision and wedding budget.
3. Determine the Details - Pick your Wedding Flowers
   Now that you have selected your florist, schedule planning meetings at the ceremony and reception locations to determine the wedding flowers you'll use and their placement (or provide photos so that the florist will have an idea of what the locations look like) Consider your wedding facility as a blank canvas upon which your florist will create his/her work of art. The look and feel of the setting will lead your discussions with your florist, determining both the wedding flowers you choose and where they will be placed.
   For floral scheme ideas and inspiration, visit the complete guide to Wedding Flowers at Elegala.com

Wedding Flower Photo Gallery 

Need ideas for your wedding flowers? Here are photos of some of my favorite bridal bouquets

For more images of wedding flowers and bridal bouquets, visit Elegala.com's Wedding Flower photo gallery

3 Steps to Choosing your Wedding Cake 

Follow these, and you will have the confection that suits your personal style and budget.

I've narrowed the process of selecting your wedding cake into three easy steps.

Step 1: Determine your Wedding Cake Style

As the focal point of your reception, your cake should represent the theme of your wedding and reflect your overall vision. Consider the style, shape, color and adornments. Browse and collect photographs of cakes that inspire you. Make a list of qualities you like and don't like. Browse this gallery of Wedding Cake Photos for inspiring images of cakes.

Step 2: Factor Cost

Cake cost is based per slice and is determined by how complex the overall design. The typical range is usually $2-$15 per slice. As a result, there are 2 easy ways to keep your cake within budget.

Keep it Simple - Lose the ornate adornments and infinite skyward-stretching tiers, and opt for a clean design with an impeccably smooth surface. Add simple details such as a Swiss dot pattern, fresh flowers or wide ribbon around the base.

OR

Improvise a Complex Design - Most wedding cakes featured in magazines use fondant icing, which creates that sought-after smooth look. Fondant icing is more expensive than buttercream, so ask your cake designer to create a similar look using buttercream icing. You can also opt for a smaller, intricately designed cake to showcase at their wedding, while the site holds simple sheet cakes in the kitchen to serve to guests.

Step 3: Choose your Baker

If your reception site is the exclusive baker, sometimes the case with country clubs and hotels, you can skip this step - your work is done. If the site does allow an outside baker, pick a few local cake bakers and book appointments to view their portfolios. When meeting with potential bakers, consider look, taste and price. The one you choose should be able to create the beautiful masterpiece you desire at a price you can afford, and it should taste scrumptious as well. Ask to taste some samples to determine the talents of your baker.

For a complete guide to wedding cakes, visit this wedding cake planning guide.

Wedding Cake and Grooms Cake Search! 

Find pictures of wedding cakes and grooms cakes in this interactive wedding cake search.

If you're still seeking the perfect confection for the centerpiece of your wedding reception, look no further than this interactive Wedding Cake search. Here you can search through hundreds of styles of wedding cakes, narrowing your search by color, style and shape. Your bound to be inspired.

And of course, don't forget to select a dessert for your hubby-to-be. Indeed, the old Southern tradition of the groom's cake is making a comeback - not only in the South but in metropolitan areas across the nation. And no, it doesn't have to be the red velvet armadillo from "Steel Magnolias". Today's grooms cakes, now just as elaborate as the wedding cake itself, often reflect the groom's interests in a dramtic and whimsical fashion.

So while your there, browse through dozens of designs of Grooms Cakes and select a style that spotlight's your groom's personality.

Wedding Cake Photo Gallery 

Need Ideas for your Wedding Cake? Here are photos of some of my favorite designs... (courtesy of Colorado Rose Cake Company)

Seashore

Cascading Aspen Leaves

Bold Dahlia

Jester Fun

Draped Callalilies

Tumbling Autumn Leaves

Stripes and Dots Forever

On the Wild Side

Cross Hatched Daisies

Modern Square

Classic Elegance

Ladies Tea Party

Simple Mocha

Elegant Rose

Pink Profusion

Wedding Invitations - The Anatomy of a Wedding Invitation 

Confused about common invitation enclosures? This guide can help...

Etiquette Corner - Invitation Etiquette 

Here's a quick look at one the most common wedding etiquette dilemmas, invitation etiquette:

Inviting partners and guests
If an invited guest is married, engaged or living with a significant other, that partner must be included in the invitation. A single invitation addressed to both individuals should be sent to spouses or couples who live together, while separate invitations should be sent to each member of an engaged or long term couple who don't live together. Inviting single guests with a date is a thoughtful gesture, but one that is not required. If you are inviting a single guest with a date, try to find out the name of your friend's intended date and include that person's name on the invitation. Otherwise, inner envelopes may include "And Guest," indicating that he or she may bring any chosen escort or friend.

Inviting Children
To invite or not invite the little ones - this is a situation that can quickly get ugly. Make your decision and stick with it - then inform your guests through carefully addressed invitations:

Children over 18 who are invited to the wedding should receive their own invitations - regardless of whether or not they live with their parents. If you don't send them an invitation - it's clear that they're not invited.

Children under 18 who are invited to the wedding should have their name included on the invitation. If you're inviting Joe and Mary Smith without their two little ones, their invitation should read "Joe and Mary Smith."

If you're still worried that some guests may add write-ins on their reply card - print the names of those invited on the reply card as well.

Guests Who Ask to Bring a Guest
Your guests should know better! It is never appropriate for a guest to ask to bring a date, and you have every right to politely say no. However, if you discover that a guest is engaged or living with a significant other, you should extend a written or verbal invitation.

For more invitation etiquette and answers to other common etiquette dilemmas, visit my complete Wedding Etiquette guide at Elegala.com.

Wedding Invitation and Stationery Search 

Find your stationery suite with this interactive search tool

Still need to plan wedding invitations or other stationery items? Look no further - you can find your Wedding Invitation, Save The Date Card, Rehearsal Dinner Invitation, Shower Invitation, or Engagement Party Invitation in this interactive invitation and stationery search.

This is an invaluable tool for brides. You can search by price, colors, paper weight, printing method, or brand - and get tons of results that match your criteria. Happy hunting!!

Videography Virtuoso - Capture Your Wedding on a Budget 

In theory, your wedding video is a priceless memento; in reality, it can cost anywhere from $500-$10,000 and beyond. With these simple tips, you can have memorable wedding footage without breaking your wedding budget.

Learn the Lingo
There is a lot more to videography than just "record," "fast-forward," and "rewind." A number of fancy editing techniques exist, such as animated titles, still shots, slow motion and dissolves. These techniques can be appealing, but will likely increase the price tag. Educate yourself and decide which editing techniques you want included in your videography package before getting carried away with all the belles and whistles. If you're on an extremely tight budget, select a straight shot package, which covers the event in its entirety with little or no editing.

Sound Check
Quality sound is a must - so know the different microphone options and their costs. Digital sound recorders attached directly to the bride and groom provide the best up-close sound, but because it is recorded onto a separate disk that must be synched with the footage, it will cost you more during the editing process. A professional videographer should have state-of-the-art equipment, in which case sticking with the single mic that is built into the recorder should suffice.

Be a One-Man Woman
If necessary, stick to one camera operator. Extra cameras will tack on $400 to $1000 a piece, which may not be the most efficient use of your budget. Most weddings are actually shot with one camera, so rest assured that a single operator will be able to capture the important moments.

Read more ways to save on your Wedding Videography at Elegala.com

Wedding Photography - 6 Shots You Need in Your Photo Album 

1. The Big Day
   This is the day you have been carefully planning for months, and a lot of preparation is involved. Have your wedding photographer on hand as you primp and the excitement steadily builds. These behind-the scenes-shots at the salon, your parents' house or dressing room will record the nervous joy and anticipation. This is the day; your wedding photography should capture the poignancy of these special moments. Black and white film works perfectly here.
2. The Dress
   You may only wear it once, but this gorgeous compilation of silk and lace is a work of art. Your wedding photographer should capture the masterpiece in all its glory. The perfect way to reveal its essence is to photograph it in its element. Hanging in a window in the dressing room with the sunlight pouring in, your dress will reveal its natural beauty.
3. Mom and Dad - Letting Go
   Your wedding is an emotional day for your parents. They feel a mixture of pride, joy and sadness. Their little girl/boy is all grown up and entering a new stage in life. Capture these emotions and conflicting feelings during the wedding ceremony and throughout the day. Especially make sure your photographer takes a shot of each of them as they focus on you during the ceremony. Even though you won't be watching them as you exchange "I Dos;" these precious images will capture the full force of their emotions.
4. Just Married
   On this busy day, there may be only a few moments when the two of you can steal away and spend time together. But just after you are pronounced "man and wife," the two of you will just have each other. Married at last! Your wedding photographer should not miss those first few moments as a married couple. Try to give yourself a few minutes alone after the ceremony to relax and reflect the significance of the occasion. You will cherish these photos in your wedding album.
5. Candid Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
   Your girlfriends. You have laughed together and cried together and shared the gauntlet of emotions together. The images from your wedding day should reflect that special bond that only the best of girlfriends can share. While the line of bridesmaids is a good shot to have in your album, you should capture some more creative photography shots for your photo album. Make sure some of your shots reveal the vibrant personalities of you and your girls. Have your photographer capture the giggles, the private whispers and the carefree hugs and exclamations, for this is the true essence of your friendships. And don't forget the boys; get some creative shots of the groomsmen too!
6. Away into The Sunset
   Get a parting shot of the two of you walking towards your "ever after." One of my favorite versions of this shot: the two of you photographed from a distance, looking towards the horizon. Your new life starts here; the sky is the limit!
   
   For more information on planning your Wedding Photography, visit my complete photography guide at Elegala.com

Wedding Music - 4 Ways to Save 

The Frugal Bride's Guide to Wedding Entertainment

1. DJ Vs. Band -
   It's the age-old argument, but when it comes to your entertainment budget - the DJ usually wins the price war (unless of course DJ AM is on your vendor list). That said, if your ideal wedding reception includes drums and a wedding singer, you can still fit live music into your budget. Limit the number of pieces in your band, and save about $150 per musician. Or hire a band for cocktail hour and the first dances, then switch to a DJ for the final foot stomping moments of your reception - a budget-friendly best of both worlds!
2. Beware the Overtime -
   Most entertainment books for a four hour time block. Think your reception might run longer? Book 'em for five, and be on the safe side. An extra hour of wedding music in advance is usually cheaper than a steep overtime fee
3. Ceremony Savings -
   Ceremony musicians can tack on an extra $500-$1000 to your entertainment costs. Consider some musical alternatives, and pocket the extra cash. If your ceremony site boasts a respectable sound system, round up some classical CDs and someone reliable to cue the music - and voila - instant background music. Or better yet, ask a talented friend or family member to perform during the ceremony (a perfect job for that cousin you couldn't quite squeeze into your wedding party). You'll cut costs and give a special person a significant role on your special day.
4. Go Amateur -
   Check out local universities for qualified and inexpensive musicians. Music professors and department heads can recommend the best students in the program. We do say this with caution - because a bad band can kill the party. Talented amateur musicians do exist, but be sure to hear them in person before making the hire.
   
   For more information on planning your Wedding Music, visit Elegala.com's complete guide to wedding entertainment.

Informative Wedding Planning Blog Posts from Google 

Read wedding planning advice from other brides and experts

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Sigh..after all the planning and anticipation, it's hard to believe the big day is already over. Want to see how it all panned out? You can view my real wedding story and photos at... Get wedding planning tips on style, etiquette, ...

Plan Your Wedding With Elegala 39

For more ideas and advice to help you plan your Wedding Invitations visit 's complete Wedding.

Wedding Save-the-Date Cards - A Complete Guide

Elegala.com is a comprehensive www.elegala.com/">wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of ...

Wedding Photography - 6 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your ...

Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning ...

Wedding Planning Advice from Industry Insiders 

Get daily tips on wedding style, etiquette, and budgeting from top wedding editors (also recent brides and grooms!) Access everything you'll need to know to plan your wedding from start to finish.

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Complete List of Atlanta Caterers 

Atlanta Wedding Vendors - All Pesonally Recommended by Local Wedding Venues

To help all you Atlanta-area brides (like myself), here is a complete list of recommended Atlanta Caterers.

What's great about this list is that every caterer on it has been personally recommended by an Atlanta-area wedding venue.
So no, these aren't just caterers who paid to be listed on the site (like so many other online lists of wedding services). Here, you can rest assured that every caterer on this list comes with a local reference. It's kind of like having a personal wedding coordinator to pre-weed out the hacks.

I only wish I had a resource like this when I was planning my own wedding.

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Ask the Wedding Expert 

Comments, Suggestions, Questions?

What are your questions or conerns? Is there any wedding planning advice you'd like to see here?

AkayLama Some amazing stuff on weddings, some important moments in life need to be special. For some good wedding ideas have a look at Weddings Posted June 21, 2008

stemcells Thank you for this Excellent Information To Get tips and Ideas about Wedding Dress please visit my Blog Posted May 04, 2008

stemcells Thank you for this Excellent Information To Get tips and Ideas about a> please visit my Blog Posted May 04, 2008

Global_Peace good info....really nice and interesting lens. Posted May 01, 2008

kristinedior Such a wonderful recourse about weddings! Thank You very much for sharing :) To learn about Best Honeymoon Destinations please go here P.S. Sorry about previous not working links :) Posted April 28, 2008

 

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