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Wedding Favors — Ideas, Tips and Trends





By Cori Locklin

No, they’re not mandatory, but wedding favors are a great way to thank your guests for sharing in your celebration! They’re also a fun little extra to tie in the style of the occasion.

Today, almost anything goes. And just like the rest of the event, wedding favors should reflect the personality of the bride and groom. Not sure where to begin? Browse this wedding favor guide for everything you’ll need to know in presenting this wonderful little detail with the utmost of style.

What to Give

Some of my favorite wedding favor ideas and trends include:

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 my favorite wedding favor ideas, but 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 a person back to a special moment quite like a song. So make a 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. I’ve even seen fortune cookies filled with personalized fortunes!

Give something back
Another one of my 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.

How and When to Give Them

Wedding favors are all about presentation. A few M&M’s can be the epitome of panache when wrapped in a pretty package. Choose packaging that matches or complements your wedding colors and table decor. Matching ribbons and personalized logo stickers or favor labels always add a nice touch. Depending on the favor you choose to give, the choice of packaging may be obvious. If not, consider these fun options:

• Mini Chinese take-out boxes (or any miniature box decorated to reflect your wedding style)
• Miniature canvas bags (printed with your monogram or wedding logo!)
• A Seashell
• Customized bottles or jars
• Miniature baskets
• Small Julep cups
• Mini Terracotta pots

In determining just how and when to present them, you also have some options. Set up a table and display them along with a card that says “Please take one” or “Thank You.” (this makes for a lovely photo opp!). Or make your favors part of your table décor and place one at each place setting. A waiter or coatroom attendant can also hand them out at a designated time. Some couples even add the extra special personal touch of distributing them personally to their guests as they leave the reception. However, due to timing and logistics, this method is best saved for smaller weddings.

What They’ll Cost

Remember, favors are simply a nice gesture to cap off a successfully-planned and fully-considered event. They don’t need to drain your budget. Expect to spend around $1 per guest on the low end, and just like any other element of a wedding, costs can always creep up to suit your wildest imaginations (hmmm - the diamond-encrusted Tiffany picture frames sure sound nice…).

If budget is a concern, you don’t necessarily need to cross favors off of your expense list. Food and candy items are often inexpensive and always popular. Or round up your family or bridesmaids for a fun night of homemade favor-making. Even if you have your heart set on a high-end item, save by giving one gift per couple, placed between their dinner plates and tagged with the couples’ names (of course, your single friends will each still receive one). Or get two things for the price of one, and ask your florist to create centerpieces that can be split into tiny bouquets for your guests to take home.

Just like everything else in the wedding planning process, if you really want to give favors at your wedding, you can always find a way to make it fit within your budget.


Fun Wedding Links

Love Beyond Measure - Wedding Favors from MyWeddingFavors.com that show that love is truely beyond measure!

The Perfect Pair Candle Favor

Find an elegant selection of silver wedding favors at guaranteed low prices at My Wedding Favors.

Bridal Coffee Pack Wedding Favor


Wedding Planning Articles

http://merrybrides.blogsopt.com http://funweddings.blog.com

For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit www.elegala.com, your ultimate wedding planning resource.

Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for www.elegala.com/ and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding vendors, with the planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today’s wedding trends and styles.





Wedding Favors & Bridal Shower



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      4 Cheap Wedding Favors Ideas

      By Bonnie Ray

      If you're looking for cheap wedding favors, there are a large number of them to choose from. You should have no problem at all finding one that suits your particular wedding reception or wedding shower.

      Just because your wedding has a limited budget doesn't mean that you cannot give your guests gifts or "favors" that they will love. Cheap wedding favors can be elegant, charming, or even useful. It's all up to you to decide which type you need.

      Here are some examples:

      If you are looking for something elegant, cheap wedding favors don't have to look cheap. You can get crystal much more inexpensively than most people expect; crystal coasters goblets, and vases cost no more than a few dollars, and they're so beautiful that nobody will accuse you of giving a cheap gift.

      Candles, too, make charming, yet cheap wedding favors. Heart-shaped candles, carriage-shaped candles, and rose-shaped candles are all charming, yet inexpensive. Who can resist the romantic glow of a candle? Even many of your guests who don't normally collect candles will undoubtedly burn them, anyway, during a special evening or bubble bath. Candle wedding favors usually cost just a dollar or two.

      Another cheap wedding favor that is very popular right now is soap. This may not at first sound like a good gift... But bath soaps can come in unexpected shapes. Consider half a dozen rose-shaped red, white, or pink soaps in a beautiful heart-shaped box. They can cost less than 2 dollars. Or, for a winter wedding, a box of snowflake-shaped soap confetti. It doesn't cost much more than a dollar, but it will make a special bath-time for your guests. It's sure to be appreciated.

      Finally, if you are on an extremely tight budget, yet you want to give your wedding reception or wedding party guests a token of your gratitude, consider bubbles. Not many adults indulge in buying themselves bubbles; but if you give them as wedding favors, you may be surprised at the number of grown-ups you see happily puffing away, competing to see who can blow the biggest bubble or the most bubbles from one breath. It's a treat that you can afford to give them. These cheap wedding favors cost no more than a quarter a piece if you buy them in packs of 10 or 20.



      Falling in Love? Wedding Links



      Wedding articles

      http://funweddings.blogspot.com/

      http://merrybrides.blogspot.com/

      About the Author: Bonnie Goodwin Ray has more than sixteen years experience in the wedding industry. She is the author of Wedding Planning Made Easier and has become a leading expert in silk wedding bouquets design. http://www.mysilkweddingflowers.com

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      Irish Wedding Rings





      Shop Irish - Jewelry



      By: Martin Smith

      There are a number of Irish Wedding Rings that include Spirals, Triskeles, and Triquetas, Shield Knots and Sun Symbols. The most popular ring by far is the Irish Claddagh and it is surrounded by a romantic legend.

      The Claddagh is as was said, the most popular in Ireland. The ring symbolizes love, friendship , and loyalty. The ring is named for an Irish fishing village. The design of the Claddagh is constructed of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top of it. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.

      Various traditions give different meanings to the ring depending on how it is worn. As a wedding ring it is worn on the left hand with the heart pointing inward to the wrist. As an engagement ring it is on the right hand with the heart pointing inward toward the wrist. For friendship it is worn on the right hand turned outward.

      The legend of the Claddagh begins when a fisherman Richard Joyce and other crew members were captured by pirates shortly before Joyce was to be married. He was sold into slavery in Algiers and made the property of a goldsmith who taught him the craft of goldsmith. Joyce became the master of the craft. With is beloved back in Claddagh on his mind he fashioned the first Claddagh ring. The hands were to represent friendship, the heart was love, and the crown represented loyalty and fidelity.

      In 1698 King Georges III agreed to free all of his subjects. Richard Joyce was once again free. His slave master offered Joyce his daughter in marriage and half of his wealth if he would stay in Algiers. Joyce refused the offer and instead returned home to Claddagh where he found his love waiting for him. Neither of them had married. Upon discovering this, Joyce gave his love the ring and they were married shortly thereafter.

      The ring was dubbed The Claddagh because of the village Joyce and his Bride were from. There were others who made the ring much later and added jewels and an intricate crown design. The basic hands holding a crowned heart has never changed. Joyce wanted something that would his love for his Beloved.

      The Claddagh today is as popular as it ever was. The basic design of the ring has not changed but now there is more intricacies in the crown, gemstones or jewels can be used to fashion the heart, and the hands are simply hands. The ring can be made of silver, gold or basically any metal.

      The design is the clasped hands of the 'fede' or faith rings. These rings date from Roman times and were popular in the Middle Ages. The ring is worn now by many to speak to their Irish heritage. The Claddagh tells the story of two lovers who are separated and yet their love and commitment withstood the passage of time. It's simple design and my heritage influenced my decision to purchase a Claddagh.


      Wedding Planning Links

      Claddagh Irish Jewelry

      Claddagh Jewelry from Ireland MyWeddingFavors.com

      Irish Shopping - The Premier web site for Irish Gifts, Jewelry and other Items

      Wedding Planning Advice
      http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com


      Author Bio
      Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes       Wedding Ring and and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

      Article Source:       http://www.ArticleGeek.com


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      Wedding Dress Guide for Petite Women



      Linens N' Things

      Click to contact me


      Do's and Don'ts on Your Search for the Dream Dress


      Petite women often have a hard time finding the perfect-fitting dresses and formalwear. From full length gowns to short cocktail dresses, there's a fine balance between getting the length right and a fit that works on the smaller or shorter frame. Petite women usually have difficulty finding pants and skirts with the same obstacles; either lengths are too long, or the waists are too wide. Slim cuts that don't accommodate for short waists won't help the petite figure, and it's essential that the dress or other formalwear fits perfectly. Hiring a tailor is a great idea, even for bridesmaid dresses or other guests; tailors can hem, sew, nip, and tuck almost any piece to ensure that it fits like it was made for the beautiful bride, bridesmaid, or guest exclusively!

      To begin your quest of the ideal wedding dress if you're a petite woman, it's important to take a look at current trends that will enhance, not emphasize, figure flaws. Petite women often have short waists and long legs; as a result, close-fitting bodice styles are ideal as long as they are the right size. Here are some additional tips and guidelines when selecting your wedding dress:

      • If you have a larger bust and a small waist, don't pick halter neckline styles. These enhance the upper body area significantly, especially if they're decked out in bads or pearls. Choose light straps or completely strapless dresses for the ideal fit.

      • If you have a curvy figure, select a Column style dress that wraps in front. It will draw attention to your best features, and the longer, draping length will add some inches; even without the heels!

      • Don't choose a corset + skirt ensemble. These styles tend to cut your figure in half, and most short waists need to be lengthened, not enhanced even further!

      • If you like your hips, a great option for you is the bias cut style. This sits naturally at your waistline, and helps to emphasize your curves in just the right places. For a dramatic addition, get this dress with a medium-sized train for a show stopper!

      • Choose an A-line cut for the ultimate 'princess' look. As long as you get the right size for the bodice, this dress naturally mushrooms out below your waist giving you a complete fairytale image.

      • An empire line dress is ideal for petite figures, since it draws attention upward and makes you look taller. Thin spaghetti straps are ideal for this cut and style, and will flatter those toned arms.

      • Pick a scooped neckline to draw attention to the bust area. Many petite women can enhance this area successfully just by selecting the most flattering neckline. If you have a shorter neck, choose a boatneck style to enhance your shoulders and clavicle. If you have a longer neck, pick v-neck or square cut styles that dip.

      Some top designers that offer customized styles for petite women include Carmen Marc Valvo, Jessica McClintock, and Marina Couture. It's a good idea to look at a variety of bridal magazines for inspiration and cutting and pasting together your likes and dislikes will help you find your dream dress!
      Wedding Resources:



      Wedding Articles: http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com
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      Weddings: Etiquette and Customs






      (CL) - Wedding ceremonies may be civil or religious rites. The civil rite generally implies a simpler event, while the religious rite is governed by more traditional rules.

      Precise traditions exist regarding the sharing of expenses. Of course, if Cinderella marries a member of the Rockefeller clan (or vice versa), the Rockefellers will no doubt undertake the higher share (if not the entire share) of expenses.

      Bride's family expenses: The brides' family is responsible for paying for the wedding invitations, the bride's trousseau and dress, reception and ceremony expenses, the guest party favors, and the automobile and chauffeur (which does not necessarily need to be an expensive limousine service. he may just be an uncle driving his fancy car). If the wedding ceremony is a religious rite, the bride's family's expenses will also include church flowers and decorations, music, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, ring bearer suits, and the fee for the minister or officiant of the ceremony.

      Groom's family expenses: The groom's family is responsible for paying for the rings, the bride's bouquet, the honeymoon, and the future house furnishings.

      Wedding invitations: Wedding invitations should be sent approximately one month before the wedding. The bride and groom, with their respective families, should prepare the guest list. In general, the standard layout is as follows: on the left the bride's parents announce their daughter's wedding, while on the right the groom's parents announce their son's wedding. In addition, envelopes should be handwritten.

      If the bride and groom are not that young, they can announce their wedding themselves.

      Ceremony: The groom's family sits to the right, and the bride's family to the left. Friends may sit wherever they like. The groom should arrive at least 20 minutes before the ceremony begins, and should await the arrival of his bride next to the officiant (minister, justice of the peace, etc.). The groom's attendants stand to the left, and the bride's attendants stand to the right. The bride arrives accompanied by her father and sits to the groom's right.

      What the bride and groom should wear: If the wedding ceremony takes place in a church, tradition demands that the bride be dressed in white and the groom in a classic tight. If the ceremony is not formal, he may wear a dark suit. If the groom is in the military, he may wear his uniform. The bride may choose a romantic, practical, or sophisticated style, but whatever the style, if she does not wear a veil, she must at least have an elegant hairstyle, with flowers or some other sort of special embellishment.

      What the guests should wear: Men should ware a dark suit. Women should wear something according to the season, either a fine dress or an elegant tailleur. There are no specific rules regarding guest attire. The best advice is to stay within the bounds of good taste and common sense. Of course, female guests should avoid wearing white in order not to compete with the traditional bride. Hats are allowed, but it is advisable not to overdo jewelry (in other words, you do not want to look like a Christmas tree). In addition, it is best to avoid provocative cleavage, even if the wedding is held in the afternoon.

      Reception: A wedding reception celebrated in a country house after a ceremony held in the town's church is charming and romantic, but not always possible. In general, the reception takes place in a hotel reception room or at a restaurant. The reception can also take place at the bride's home if it can accommodate all the guests. Depending on the hour of the reception, breakfast or lunch should be offered. These days, the breakfast-lunch combination-or brunch-is also very trendy. Afternoon and evening weddings are generally more formal and are followed by receptions held at more elegant venues, with a sophisticated menu. Food selection is purely subjective. But regardless of the wedding hour or style, the champagne and the wedding cake should not be left out.

      Unforeseen events: It sometimes happens that, after sending out all the invitations, the bride and groom decide not to get married after all or decide to change the date of the ceremony. In either event, if the invitation has been sent only to a few close friends, they may be notified by phone. The mother or a friend can be very helpful with this task. If, however, the guest list is extensive, a note or an e-mail message should be sent immediately. If the wedding is cancelled indefinitely, any gifts already received should be immediately returned to the guests. However, the bride and groom are not obliged to give an explanation for their decision or to justify their actions. People's fantasy will take care of looking for a reason.



      Wedding Planning Resources:


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      Chocolate Fountains Add Sweetness to Wedding Receptions


      By Benjamin Cohen







      There's so much that goes in to planning a wedding reception. Choosing the venue, the menu, the music, the cake...it's all enough to make a bride-to-be go crazy.

      If you've been toying around with ideas for food but haven't gotten anywhere, why not consider having a Chocolate fountain at your reception? Chocolate fountains have grown in popularity over the past few years, and they're showing up at all kinds of events from bridal showers and wedding receptions to corporate events. It's an attractive addition to just about any special event.

      With a spread of fruit and other dipping foods to go with it, it would be a place for your guests to gather other than the bar, and it would be a nice contrast to other finger foods. When they're running, chocolate fountains look like liquid chocolate sculptures, which make them like edible centerpieces. Plus, they're fun, relatively easy, and will be a hit with kids and adults alike.

      If you like the idea of having a chocolate fountain at your reception, here are a few ideas of what you can do with it.

      Guess what: you can do it yourself

      You may be looking at your wedding budget and wincing at the cost of hiring a chocolate fountain company for your reception. Fear not. Like most things with weddings, you can save yourself a lot of money if you do it yourself instead of farming it out.

      You can find chocolate fondue fountains for sale online at sites like Liquidationexpress.com, and you can find the chocolate to melt inside them the same way. Look for chocolate with a minimum of 34 percent cocoa butter to make sure that it will run smoothly in the fountain.

      If you're worried about spills and such, ask a friend to watch the fountain for you. That way you'll have somebody you trust over there, and you'll be able to enjoy your receptions without worries.

      Appetizer or dessert?

      Chocolate fountains can work as an appetizer or a dessert, so your decision on when to do it depends on what kind of food you're having at your reception. If you have lots of heavy hors d'oeuvres at the beginning of your reception, you might want to save the fountain for the end. If you've got relatively light finger foods, then you can use your fountain at the same time.

      What to dip?

      The wonderful thing about chocolate is that you can dip just about anything in it. Well, you may want to avoid tortilla chips, but anything that typically tastes good with chocolate, you can serve with your chocolate fountain.

      Fruits like strawberries, bananas, pineapples and kiwi, or snacks like cookies, pretzels and marshmallows are all good ideas. Steer clear of juicy fruits like watermelon, or soft things like cake, which may crumble when dipped and ruin the flow of the fountain.

      Get thee to a chocolate fountain!

      You don't have to break the bank to have an elegant, tasty chocolate fountain at your wedding reception. With a little planning ahead, you can do it yourself and have that little extra sweetness on your special day. No doubt, friends and family will be gushing over it for months and years afterward.


      Recommended Products






      LET THE FUN BEGIN


      Everything you need to create your very own scrumptious Chocolate Fountain



      The Chocolate Fountain Headquarters








      Additional Wedding Advice

      http://merryweddings.livejournal.com
      http://windsor.weddingwindow.com
      http://funweddings.blogspot.com
      http://merrybrides.blogspot.com

      About the AuthorBenjamin Cohen is the president of LiquidationConnect.com, which provides consumers with fun, unique, affordable gift items. If you want a chocolate fountain at your reception, we have a wide selection to fit just what you need. To see our complete line of chocolate fondue fountains, visit       http://www.LiquidationConnect.com today.





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        Interfaith Marriage - How to Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony


        By         Cori Locklin

        Let’s face it – the world just isn’t as big as it used to be. As a testament to the earth’s seemingly shrinking waistline, more and more young men and women are finding true love outside their faith – and making it work. Yet no matter how progressive you and your families may be, the peaceful merging of two religions can prove an ambitious undertaking. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that love is the end goal, and get ready to celebrate a marriage made in heaven, er, make that two heavens.

        Interfaith wedding ceremonies pose a few planning challenges. Here is some advice to get you started:

        Do Some Soul Searching - If you’ve been neglecting your spiritual side, it’s time to get reacquainted. Assess your beliefs and the role you see them playing in your life. How important to you is it that your wedding ceremony reflects your religious background? How willing are you to compromise for your fiancé’s beliefs or family? Know your personal stance on faith and religion, so you can speak candidly with your fiancé and your families and make decisions accordingly.

        Talk it Over - After you’ve come to terms with your own spirituality, you and your fiancé need to have an honest discussion about religion. Although you should have broached the topic at some point during your relationship, now a wedding ceremony and marriage loom, adding a sense of urgency. During your internal reflection, you may have discovered your own views altering a bit, and he may feel the same. Discuss together your values, and identify what traditions are most meaningful for each of you to incorporate into your wedding ceremony and marriage.

        Invite the Families - Combining two sets of traditions while keeping the peace with both families can be tricky. Invite both sides to listen to your ideas and contribute their expectations for your wedding day. You’d be surprised how an honest group discussion can bring about solutions once deemed elusive. As the happy couple, you and your fiancé should be prepared to discuss openly your choices, but you should also be receptive to their viewpoints. Be honest, open and supportive, and make sure that your ceremony plans are agreeable (or at least livable) for everyone.

        Get the Right Officiant(s) - While many officiants do not perform interfaith weddings – or only do so with restrictions – just as many specialize in interfaith wedding ceremonies. If either of you has a relationship with the clergy at your respective place of worship, consult with that him or her first. Even if your clergy is unable to perform the service, he or she should be able to evaluate your situation with an open mind and make suggestions and recommendations. Many religious and interfaith organizations maintain lists of clergy who will officiate at interfaith ceremonies. You will also find a valuable resource in your local newspaper’s wedding announcements. Search for the names of officiants who have conducted interfaith ceremonies.

        Get Counseled - Counseling sessions, often recommended before a wedding regardless of the couple’s religion, offer a good opportunity for a bride and groom to not only learn about the other's faith, but also to consider ways to merge traditions or celebrations during the ceremony. Since religion won’t disappear after your wedding day, counseling sessions also offer insight to other situations that may arise in your marriage, including raising children.

        Plan a Fusion Ceremony - Consult your officiant(s) and families for advice in designing a ceremony that incorporates both faiths and cultures. Determine which customs are personally significant, and select rituals and readings together. Continue this blending of cultures into the reception, and design a menu of personalized fusion cuisine – think egg rolls with a side of Spanakopita.

        Reassure the Family - As your wedding plans unfold, remember to pause from time to time and check in with your families, especially if the news of an interfaith wedding was an initial shock for either side. Continue to keep them involved and informed throughout the planning process. Spend quality time together, and if logistics allow, plan some group get-togethers.

        Reassure Yourselves - Along those lines – don’t forget to reassure each other along the way, as uncertainty can creep in with potential roadblocks and planning challenges. Don’t stress that you’re losing your religion, because your not. Remember to always keep the focus on the marriage of two people in love, and rejoice that you now have two great traditions from which to draw your spiritual inspiration. Delight in a spiritually rich life and future to come!





        Useful Links:

        Dream Honeymoons; Destination Weddings!

        Top 10 Vacation Destinations!

        Great Honeymoon Cruise Deals



        More Great Wedding Advice

        Fun Weddings
        Merry Brides
        Ashlee Weddings
        Wedding Journal

        For more ideas and inspiration for your wedding ceremony, visit Elegala.com's complete wedding ceremony planning guide. 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 tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles. For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit Elegala.com, your ultimate wedding planning resource. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin


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        Here Comes the.Wine!

        Great holiday gift ideas





        (MS) - Your parents registered for the fine china, the sterling silver gravy boat and the patio furniture starter set. But, with today's couples marrying later, when they already have the essentials, newlyweds-to-be are asking for more non-traditional gifts. According to the 2006 "American Wedding" survey by the Condé Nast Bridal Group, these gifts include registering for wine, sporting goods, and recreational memberships or tickets to museums or sporting events. Gift-giving experts are saying that the bride- and groom-to-be are saying, "Give us a memory," rather than "Stock our china cabinet," and suggest thinking about the couple's hobbies when giving gifts. Foodies define wine as a memorable experience and often appreciate good wine and a starter cellar that offers a variety of delicious gifts.

        Thanks to the assorted selection, guests need not worry about giving the same bottle of wine as other guests. Less wine-savvy consumers may be skeptical about giving wine, but can use the following guidelines and speak to their local wine shop for help in finding a variety that has an assortment of everyday bottles as well as wines that will be appreciated in 5-, 10- and 15-year increments (proper storage is essential, but easier than you think).

        Suggestions for adding to the newlyweds' "cave," be it a small, cool apartment closet or a temperature controlled vault in the basement is easy with a few simple tips:

        · Give a wine the recipient will drink: Select from wine regions that afford red, white and rosés for both everyday meals and special occasions, such as Rioja, known as Spain's leading wine region, which makes wines from tempranillo grapes. Adrian Murcia, assistant sommelier at New York's James Beard Award-winning restaurant, Chanterelle, explains, "Thanks to the tempranillo grape, the expressive and velvety rich Spanish classic, Rioja wines are renowned for their ability to complement many different foods."

        · Don't break the bank: Select a gift that fits your budget but also reminds the couple of their wedding day. A series of tickets to theater or sporting events work well for some, but for the wine lover, some givers feel wine is only an acceptable gift when it is an aged bottle with a very high price tag. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, Robert Eigen, owner of Premier Cru Wine Merchants in New York City says, "Rioja is always a good choice for a wedding gift because of the quality of wine and the value. With many varieties of wine from the region, there's something for everyone." The region of Rioja also has easy-to-understand information, as the bottles are aged and released from the winery when they are ready to drink. The back of each bottle features a seal indicating each wine's age: Crianza, the most popular house wine of Spain, is aged 12 months, or the deep, flavorful Reserva is aged 36 months. Better yet, such wines are affordable, with prices thatrange as low as a few dollars per bottle to no more than the equivalent cost of your run-of-the-mill gravy boat.

        · Pick a theme: Whether it's eco-friendly wines (Rioja has several) paired with wine glasses made of recycled glass presented in a beautiful bag made of recycled materials or 12 wines to be delivered to the newlyweds' door each month for a year, the theme gives the couple something to look forward to and a great memory.

        · Give advice along with gift: For wedding or party guests who truly want to give a unique gift, include ways to make a magical night with the wine such as concert or theater tickets or a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Also, gift-givers might want to ask the manager of the store where they purchase the wine for a recipe or meal suggestion that perfectly complements the wine. In general, wine sellers are wine drinkers, so they're liable to have a host of suggestions ready. When giving your gift, attach a card or note with a few suggestions or even a recipe.


        Fun Links:
        The Wine News top rated wines

        The Wine Enthusiast - Wine Cellars, Wine Accessories, Wine Racks, Wine Glasses and more.

        Connoisseurs' Guide top rated wines

        Create your own bottle of wine! Design your wine label, personalized for any event or special occasion, to create the perfect gift.

        Additional Wedding Advice sites:
        Merry Brides
        Ultimate Brides
        Fun Weddings
        Create your own Wedding Website!
        Weddings by Ashlee

        To learn more about Rioja, Spain's greatest wine region, visit         http://www.vibrantrioja.com/.
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        A Stress-Free Guide to Seating Plans

        EasyClickTravel.com



        Do you enjoy puzzles? Well, when you engage in the task of creating seating plans, that's just what you'll be doing - tackling a puzzle. Only you won't get a finished picture after fitting all the pieces into place. Rather, you'll be rewarded with a wedding reception that goes smoothly for most involved. Follow an organized plan to make easier work of a challenging task.

        The first thing you should do once you have the final head count for your reception is to make a seating chart. Draw large circles to represent the tables, dance floor, musical entertainment and entrances. (Or get a preprinted seating chart from your reception hall). Don't forget to find out how many guests can fit at each table. Then write everyone's name on a card or sticky note so you can play "musical chairs."

        Another option is to go high-tech. There are now wedding-planning software packages that have a seating-arrangement tool. Store guests names and digitally manipulate where they will be seated.

        In general, place guests in spots that suit them. Your friends will want to be near the band, bar or dance floor. Keep the elderly away from the band or DJ's speakers. Family and friends should be closest to your table. Acquaintances and your parents' friends should be placed farther away. Separate people who do not get along. Place handicapped guests in easily accessible spots that are close to exits.

        As the happy couple, you have a few seating options. You can sit at a head table or dais, which is traditionally long and straight and faces the reception tables. Arrangement at the table can vary. The bride and groom usually sit front and center, with the maid of honor on the groom's left and the best man on the bride's right. The other attendants are seated male and female.

        Still, you can stray from the norm. You can have the wedding party and their dates sit at one table while you and your new spouse sit at a table for two at the front of the room. You can also sit at a table with only the maid of honor, best man and their dates. Or you can sit at a table with your parents. Do whatever fits your style and makes you most comfortable.

        Parent seating is flexible, too. Both the bride's and groom's parents generally sit together near the newlyweds. Siblings not in the wedding, grandparents and other relatives may also sit nearby. If your parents are divorced or don't get along, separate them. Your mother and her guests can sit at one table and your father can have his own table on the other side of the room. If you're unsure how to seat them, consult both your parents and in-laws to see what would they would prefer.

        For family seating, it seems natural to sit people of the same side of the family together to guarantee that they'll be comfortable. Or mix and match: Consider sitting the bride's cousins with the groom's cousins so they can get to know each other. Put family members with a history of squabbles on opposite sides of the dance floor - you'll be happier for it.

        Seating friends allows you more creativity. You can sit people who know each other together or you can play matchmaker by seating singles who have never met at the same table. Some opt for "singles" and "couples" tables, while others feel this seating creates awkwardness. Again, don't forget about people who don't get along. If your two college buddies aren't on speaking terms, now isn't the time to try to patch things up by seating them at the same table.

        Sometimes, there are just some people who don't fit anywhere - your friend from camp, your boss whom you didn't think would show. Whatever the case may be, avoid seating all the random guests at one table; they'll know they're the misfits. Get creative. Consider ages, interests and marital status.

        Now that you have everyone in place, identify each table. You can keep it simple with numbers or letters, or identify tables by themes or colors. Guests' names and their table assignments should be placed on place cards (Consider having a calligrapher write these cards, or print them on your computer.). Set them in alphabetical order on a table near the entrance.

        You can't please everyone with the seating assignments, but you can try your best to make everyone enjoy hearing the words, "Please be seated."



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        Weddings: Etiquette and Customs



        (CL) - Wedding ceremonies may be civil or religious rites. The civil rite generally implies a simpler event, while the religious rite is governed by more traditional rules.

        Precise traditions exist regarding the sharing of expenses. Of course, if Cinderella marries a member of the Rockefeller clan (or vice versa), the Rockefellers will no doubt undertake the higher share (if not the entire share) of expenses.

        Bride's family expenses: The brides' family is responsible for paying for the wedding invitations, the bride's trousseau and dress, reception and ceremony expenses, the guest party favors, and the automobile and chauffeur (which does not necessarily need to be an expensive limousine service. he may just be an uncle driving his fancy car). If the wedding ceremony is a religious rite, the bride's family's expenses will also include church flowers and decorations, music, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, ring bearer suits, and the fee for the minister or officiant of the ceremony.

        Groom's family expenses: The groom's family is responsible for paying for the rings, the bride's bouquet, the honeymoon, and the future house furnishings.

        Wedding invitations: Wedding invitations should be sent approximately one month before the wedding. The bride and groom, with their respective families, should prepare the guest list. In general, the standard layout is as follows: on the left the bride's parents announce their daughter's wedding, while on the right the groom's parents announce their son's wedding. In addition, envelopes should be handwritten.

        If the bride and groom are not that young, they can announce their wedding themselves.

        Ceremony: The groom's family sits to the right, and the bride's family to the left. Friends may sit wherever they like. The groom should arrive at least 20 minutes before the ceremony begins, and should await the arrival of his bride next to the officiant (minister, justice of the peace, etc.). The groom's attendants stand to the left, and the bride's attendants stand to the right. The bride arrives accompanied by her father and sits to the groom's right.

        What the bride and groom should wear: If the wedding ceremony takes place in a church, tradition demands that the bride be dressed in white and the groom in a classic tight. If the ceremony is not formal, he may wear a dark suit. If the groom is in the military, he may wear his uniform. The bride may choose a romantic, practical, or sophisticated style, but whatever the style, if she does not wear a veil, she must at least have an elegant hairstyle, with flowers or some other sort of special embellishment.

        What the guests should wear: Men should ware a dark suit. Women should wear something according to the season, either a fine dress or an elegant tailleur. There are no specific rules regarding guest attire. The best advice is to stay within the bounds of good taste and common sense. Of course, female guests should avoid wearing white in order not to compete with the traditional bride. Hats are allowed, but it is advisable not to overdo jewelry (in other words, you do not want to look like a Christmas tree). In addition, it is best to avoid provocative cleavage, even if the wedding is held in the afternoon.

        Reception: A wedding reception celebrated in a country house after a ceremony held in the town's church is charming and romantic, but not always possible. In general, the reception takes place in a hotel reception room or at a restaurant. The reception can also take place at the bride's home if it can accommodate all the guests. Depending on the hour of the reception, breakfast or lunch should be offered. These days, the breakfast-lunch combination-or brunch-is also very trendy. Afternoon and evening weddings are generally more formal and are followed by receptions held at more elegant venues, with a sophisticated menu. Food selection is purely subjective. But regardless of the wedding hour or style, the champagne and the wedding cake should not be left out.

        Unforeseen events: It sometimes happens that, after sending out all the invitations, the bride and groom decide not to get married after all or decide to change the date of the ceremony. In either event, if the invitation has been sent only to a few close friends, they may be notified by phone. The mother or a friend can be very helpful with this task. If, however, the guest list is extensive, a note or an e-mail message should be sent immediately. If the wedding is cancelled indefinitely, any gifts already received should be immediately returned to the guests. However, the bride and groom are not obliged to give an explanation for their decision or to justify their actions. People's fantasy will take care of looking for a reason.

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