Thursday, April 28, 2011

5 Actions For Successful Relationships

By Margaret Paul

Couples that have a very good relationship are not just lucky. Successful, loving relationships do not just happen. The couples that have loving relationships are taking specific actions that people in unsuccessful relationships are not taking.

ACTION 1 - KINDNESS TO SELF AND OTHER

Think for a moment about how you go through your day. Are you focused on what you don't like in yourself or your partner? Do you spend much of your thinking time judging yourself or your partner? Or, do you make the spiritual attribute of kindness to yourself and others, including your partner, your highest priority?

People in successful relationships treat themselves and their partner with kindness – kind words, kind actions, kind looks, kind listening, and kind thoughts. It is far more important to them to be kind than to try to control their partner with
anger, judgment, criticism, irritation, blame, resistance or withdrawal.

ACTION 2 - PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR FEELINGS

People in loving relationships do not make their partner responsible for their feelings. When they feel angry, hurt, anxious, depressed, resentful, irritated, guilty, or shamed, they look within at their own thoughts and behavior that may be causing their painful feelings. They do not see themselves as victims of their partner's choices. Rather, they learn how to manage their own feelings without dumping their upset on their partner. When they can't manage their own feelings, they get the help they need rather than dump anger, blame, anxiety or depression onto their partner.

ACTION 3 - ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

People in successful relationships take responsibility for managing their time and space in ways that work for themselves and their partner. They make sure they have enough time with each other to talk, learn, resolve conflict, play and make love. The make sure they have time with children, time for chores, time for work and time for relaxation. They take care of their mutual living spaces in ways that respect their partner's needs. If one partner tends to be neat and the other messy, they both strive to make their living environment pleasant for both of them rather than either of them complying, controlling, or resisting. Because their highest priority is kindness to themselves and each other, they are motivated to discover ways of living together that meets both of their needs.

ACTION 4 - FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Successful couples make sure that they not only earn enough to support themselves, but they learn how to manage their money in ways that do not create stress for themselves or their partner. They decide mutually if both of them will work or not. Partners in loving relationships do not unilaterally decide to stop working and live off the other person. Nor does either partner make unilateral financial decisions that have a negative effect on the other partner.

In successful relationships, one partner does not spend money in such as way as to create stress for the other person. Loving partners mutually decide on their budget and then both of them stick to it.

ACTION 5 - HEALTH AND WELLBEING

When two people care deeply about themselves and each other, they strive to take care of their physical health. Loving partners do not behave in ways that cause their partner to fear for their well being. They do not take unnecessary risks, such as riding a motorcycle without a helmet, or participating in activities that could harm their eyes without wearing goggles. They don't drink and drive. They eat well, get enough exercise, and don't smoke. People in loving relationships do not want their partner to suffer the grief of their loss through premature illness, so they strive to take good care of themselves – partly out of caring for themselves, and partly out of caring for their partner.

Once again – successful relationships don't just happen. They are the result of each person taking physical, emotional, financial, organizational, and spiritual responsibility within their relationship.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You" and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her
at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Monday, April 25, 2011

Question of the Week - Pre and Postnuptial Agreements

As we approach the 21st century Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton did Kate have a problem with signing a Prenuptial Agreement?


Per Girly Chat "W omen's Issues, Chat and More: the media is speculating whether the young royal couple should be drawing up a royal prenup; although prenuptial agreements are common in the United States, they are not as common in the UK, and were only recently recognized by UK law. However, given the royal family’s history of past marriages, is a royal prenup advisable in today’s world? to read more... " Girly Chat!...

The matter of formalizing financial and legal matters through a prenuptial contract or premarital agreement is a sensitive one for brides and grooms, many of whom consider doing so a crass form of hedging bets on the longevity of the marriage.

It is certainly an issue that needs to be discussed early in the relationship-and not something you sprint on your parnter-to-be right before ceremony.

* What is a premarital agreement? Basically a premarital agreement is a contract between two people that defines the rights and benefits that will exist during the marriage and after, in the event of divorce. It can expand or limit a person's right to property, life insurance benefits, or support payments in the event of death or divorce. Usually it addresses the rights to property that each brings to the marriage, retirement plan assets, and how money accumulated before the marriage will be distributed in the event of death or divorce. Without a premarital agreement state laws define the rights and benefits of marriage. If the couple does not want to rely on state laws to determine their legal and fiscal fate, the premarital agreement allows them to make their own rules.

* When is a prenuptial agreement used? Although anyone can have a premarital agreement, it is most often used when the bride or the groom or both bring assets to the marriage that they want to protect in the vent of divorce or death. This is particularly true for people marrying for the second or third time who want to make sure that certain assets are passed on to their children from a previous marriage.

* What is covered in a prenup? What a prenuptial contract does not cover is child custody and support. The courts will disregard the contract on this point and make a decision that is considered in the best interest of the child. The courts will also disregard premarital agreement that, in essence, leaves one person destitute.

* What is a postnuptial contract? A postnupital contract is one made after a couple is married and can include the same categories of consideration, usually having to do with property and money, in a prenuptial contract. The contract is usually drawn if the couple realizes that children from a previous marriage or other family members would be unprotected in the case of divorce or death.

* What is meant by disclosure? Because one person is usually giving something up by agreeing to a prenuptial contract, both the bride and the groom must fully disclose their finances to one another in advance. Most states require that the premarital agreement include separate asset listings that describe and show the values of each person's assets. If the couple doesn't do this, each is preventing the other from knowing what he or she is losing by signing the contract-and this may constitute fraud, which makes the agreement unenforceable. Because of this, and to ensure that the agreement is written correctly and legally, it is a good idea for the bride and the groom to seek the advice of each one's respective lawyers before entering into the agreement.

* What is the form of the agreement? A prenuptial contractor premarital agreement must be in writing to be legally binding It provides evidence of the terms of the agreement and demonstrates that both people understand and agree to the terms. It is generally legally binding as long as it is entered into voluntarily and without fraud and as long as it is reasonable and fair. It is not binding if a person in unfairly induced to sign the agreement or it coerced under excessive emotional pressure.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Don't Marry Until You Can Discuss Money!

by Helga Hayse




Your wedding is in six weeks. You've tried to talk about money
with your fiancée for the last few months and he continues to
find a way to shut down the conversation. You're especially
panicky because last night you had this conversation:

You: "Honey, our wedding is in six weeks and I'm feeling very
uncomfortable because we've never really talked about money and
how we'll handle it after we're married."

Your fiancée: "We did talk about it, sweetheart. Lots of times.
Aren't I paying for most the wedding expenses? And didn't we
agree we'd take care of the details after we get back from our
honeymoon."

You: "Yes, but money is such an important part of marriage and I
think we should clarify some things before we marry."

Your fiancée" Why? I love you; you love me. I'm starting to feel
you don't trust me."

Big red flag here! Talking about money won't get any easier
after you're married.

Consider this - The financial part of your marriage isn't about
trust. It's about equal participation and financial transparency
for both of you.

You have to be financially intimate because once you say "I Do",
you become one-half of a legal and financial partnership.
Whatever your husband is doing financially, you're doing it too.
Your fiancée should honor your need and desire to discuss money
before the wedding. He should be welcoming your interest and
desire to participate, especially if he believes you are an
equal partner.

Many women have asked me about the line between holding back
financial information and abusive behavior by a spouse. Both
result in a lack of financial information. Withholding financial
information from a wife who asks about it is disrespectful and
demeaning.

If you choose not to ask, that may not be smart, but it's your
choice. If you ask, but your husband won't tell you, that is a
form of emotional abuse. You may have access to marital funds,
reasonable mobility and buying choices. You may be frustrated by
your husband's behavior and attitude, but unlike financial abuse,
you won't be consumed by fear and financial restriction.

Financial abuse takes withholding behavior one step further.
It's designed to isolate you into a state of complete financial
dependence. The abuser is not out of control. He knows what he's
doing. Other people may find him charming and sensitive and he
can adapt his behavior to the social setting.

But his objective is to isolate you and make you totally
dependent on him financially. The way he does that is to cut you
off from all access to funds and information unless he provides
it to you.

Financial abuse can often lead to physical abuse as well. It
happens within all age ranges, educational levels, ethnic
backgrounds and financial levels. The rich socialite who lives
in the largest house in the best neighborhood is as likely to be
a victim of financial abuse as the poorest wife in the toughest
section of town.

When you're intelligent enough to sense a red flag before your
wedding because you want to talk about money before marriage,
you are acting responsibly. But your fiancée is already showing
you that money is not an easy subject for him.

Ask yourself if there are any other things you can't discuss
comfortably before marriage. Whatever those things are, count on
the fact that they'll be bones of contention after you're
married. And you won't have nearly the flexibility you have
before the wedding.

Be honest with yourself . You may be marrying the wrong person.
Going into marriage with red flags is like skiing downhill
blindfolded. You wouldn't do that either, would you?


Helga Hayse is author of "Don't Worry about a Thing, Dear" - Why
Women Need Financial Intimacy. She recommends that both engaged and married women read her book to discover the keys to
financial intimacy. You can find her book and her frequently
updated blog at http://www.financialintimacy.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

YOUR MEMORIES..OUR PASSION!

Gala Affairs By AtUrBest offers you fine a unique style for your stationery needs for the perfect wedding. We offer our clients with pre-event coordination, creative planning and flawless execution for all events.

From the largest corporate events, to the most intimate gatherings, we help you envision, design, budget and manage your event with classic style as well as current design trends.

We will assist you in determining what you need and when you need it. We can offer great ideas and help you carry them through. It’s your day! Let us take away some of the stress!




• Save the Date cards
• Announcements
• Wedding Invitations
• Shower Invitations
• Thank You notes
• Personalized Note Cards
• Rehearsal Invitations
• Place Cards
• Welcome Baskets
• Personalized Gift Bags
• Napkins
• Bridal Party Gifts
• Wedding Gifts
• Wedding Programs
• Labels
• Printing
• Favor Bags
• Favor Tags
• Favor Boxes
• Wine Bags
• Favors
• CD Inserts
• Candy Bar Wrappers

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Destination Wedding Expo

When

May 19 2011 , 6pm-9pm

Where

6320 Commonwealth Blvd
Douglaston, New York

Cost
$10
Website: Destinationweddingsexpo.com
Contact: lisa@worldwidegrouptravel.com

By demand, Destination Weddings & Honeymoon Expo is coming back to New York City for its 3rd show. We will bring premium vendors, product presentations, refreshments and your chance to meet with Hotels and Resorts from the Islands of the Caribbean and Mexico. The Caribbean or Mexico can be the perfect location for a romantic wedding and honeymoon. An unforgettable experience for you and your guests. This is the only New York bridal show for the Destination Wedding Bride! If you are a bride interested in learning more about planing a destination wedding or looking for the ultimate honeymoon then this is the show for you. Join us for your chance to win a fabulous honeymoon in paradise at a Palace or Wyndham Resort. For more information please go to www.destinationweddingsexpo.com

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Fredericksburg inns are wooing weddings

The new Historic Inns of Fredericksburg will hold an open house May 1 to showcase their venues to brides planning destination weddings



THE newly formed Historic Inns of Fredericksburg have banded together to promote downtown as a location for destination weddings.

Members will hold their first Downtown Bridal Open House on May 1 to showcase their venues, and are encouraging downtown merchants to participate as well.

"It's an opportunity to come into town that day and wander around and go in all these lovely inns and other venues," said Barbara Lucas, who handles marketing for The Olde Silk Mill Inn.






Brides can register at the inn, a 27-room bed-and-breakfast at 1707 Princess Anne St., from 1 to 5 p.m. that day for prizes and sample wedding, sweet and savory cheesecakes provided by The Cheesecake Garden. Owner Susan Palma currently takes orders online but plans to open a storefront downtown.

From there, brides can either walk or drive about a dozen blocks to see the other bed-and-breakfasts in the organization. They are the Kenmore Inn, 1200 Princess Anne St.; The Richard Johnston Inn, 717 Caroline St., and its sister inn, The Caroline House, 528 Caroline St.; and The Schooler House, 1303 Caroline St.

Several other businesses already plan to participate in the open house as well. Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg, for example, will have a banner about the event; and I Thee Wed, which is at 2201 Lafayette Blvd., will have a display in the Wilson Building, 915 Caroline St.

The Inn at the Olde Silk Mill hosted its own bridal open house last year. It attracted about 100 people. Lucas said she thinks that the May 1 event, which Historic Inns of Fredericksburg hopes to hold annually, will attract more than twice that and will grow even larger in the years ahead.

"Next time, it could be something that everybody looks forward to and plans to attend," she said.

Owners of the five participating bed-and-breakfasts formed Historic Inns of Fredericksburg in January to pool their marketing dollars and boost their profile. They're working on a website, which will have a link on visitfred.com, the area tourism site, and a brochure promoting all five properties that's aimed at tour groups and wedding parties.

"Between all the inns, we have over 50 rooms," Lucas said. "We can easily accommodate an upscale motorcoach group."

The Inn at the Olde Silk Mill will soon add an additional venue. Owner Ed Whelan III is renovating the former silk-mill building behind the inn as a 300-seat event space for weddings, conferences, trade shows and other activities.

"We already have weddings booked for May and June in that building," said inn manager Anna Sanborn.

Cathy Jett: 540/374-5407
Email: cjett@freelancestar.com

NY's Premier Bridal Show & Expo

When

Apr 25 2011 , 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Where

Marriott Hotel 101 James Doolittle Blvd
Uniondale, New York

Cost FREE
Website http://1888metroexpo.com/bridal_expo/information.a
Contact tony@1888metroexpo.com

NY’s Premier Bridal Show & Expo features over 30 exhibitors per show including: Photography, Video, Gowns, Favors, Flowers, Bands, DJ’s, Invitations, Tuxedo’s, Caterers and much more. See over 10 limousines on display along with a Live Band and DJ showcase and Live Fashion Show featuring the latest designer gowns and tuxedos. “Everything for your wedding under one roof”. Grand Prize Drawing for a FREE Wedding Gown and (2) Cruises at each show!!!!!!! Free admission !!!! Doors open 6:30 - 9:00 PM Reservations are suggested or register online 631-563-6280

One&Only Cape Town Introduces New All-Inclusive Wedding Packages

One&Only Cape Town Introduces New All-Inclusive Wedding Packages



As South Africa’s most popular destination, Cape Town is known for its restaurants, beaches, architecture, art, and wine. A close neighbour to the world acclaimed Stellenbosch wine region, it also serves as the gateway to the Big Five (lions, elephants, cape buffalos, leopards and rhinos) and Africa’s largest animal reserves. A haven for the international wedding and honeymoon set, One&Only Cape Town recently introduced a new Weddings Consultant and All-Inclusive Wedding Packages to encourage couples to embark on this trip of a lifetime.





“We provide honeymoons and weddings that are memorable as they include the grandeur of Table Mountain, the sea and the scenically beautiful city of Cape Town combined with the finest Wilderness areas and Game reserves on the continent,” says Adele Bennett, Weddings Consultant, One&Only Cape Town.

Newly appointed to help couples plan their celebrations, Adele Bennett is a planner extraordinaire with over 2,000 weddings under her belt. Whether you envision a destination wedding that is non-traditional and casual or one that is elegant and formal, Adele is dedicated to making your event magical and unforgettable from the initial planning to the reception. To keep your memories of this moment alive, couples who book their wedding at One&Only Cape Town will receive a complimentary first anniversary dinner at Reuben’s when they return.

Wedding

Ranging from an elaborate ballroom celebration to an intimate gathering of friends, One&Only Cape Town provides a stunning collection of venues for the special day including the Penthouse, boasting breathtaking views of Table Mountain. More than three times the size of the resort’s ballroom, the Penthouse boasts a pool deck with roof-top decking and entertainment. The space comfortably accommodates 50 – 80 persons and up to 150 for a cocktail reception. The Marina Room, with spectacular views of the V&A Waterfront and the marina is ideal for parties of 30-40 and is available for afternoon or evening receptions. For Summer, Isola, an outdoor pool-side space on the Island, features lush landscaping and water views for 20-50 persons.

The beautifully appointed Ballroom, measuring 2,314 square feet with 648 square feet of outdoor space, is available for private events and can accommodate 50 to 120 persons for a Wedding Reception with dance floor. This venue is available for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner-Dance.

To assist couples with planning their event, One&Only Cape Town recently unveiled a number of all-inclusive wedding packages. Starting at R10,500 for a Marina Room, this package includes :

Meeting with One&Only Wedding Consultant
One night in a Luxury Marina and Table Mountain Facing Room
Romantic rose petal turndown and a personalized bottle of Graham Beck Brut Sparkling Wine
A personalized One&Only photo frame and Wedding memento
Complimentary menu and wine tasting at Reuben’s
Dance floor, tables, chairs, all cutlery, crockery and glassware
Crisp white floor length table linen
Pre-reception area for guests to enjoy drinks and canapés
Complimentary First Anniversary dinner at Reuben’s

Honeymoon

A series of bridges link Marina Rise with two separate, exclusive islands boasting 40 additional rooms and suites, a private infinity pool and expansive spa serving as an ideal hideaway for honeymooners. In winter, couples can retreat back to their one and two-bedroom Grand Suites to find a wood burning fireplace for romantic nights cuddled by the fire complete with complimentary wine and canapés. In summer, these suites provide exclusive access to the resort’s spa island nestled on its own lushly landscaped private island at the heart of this bustling city.

The resort’s wide array of amenities accommodates travellers of all tastes. Those seeking a relaxing, tranquil stay can enjoy a custom wine tasting hosted by the resort Sommelier at Reuben’s boasting the largest collection of South African vintages in the world or relax with any number of tailored, holistic treatments at the One&Only Spa - the most expansive in all of Cape Town. Signature treatments include therapeutic plants from the region and local sea salts to condition and revitalize the body. Soothing Rooibos tea is served in the comfort of the relaxation room where couples will complete their treatment journey.

One&Only Cape Town can also arrange day-long excursions to visit some of the region’s top wineries. The One&Only Winelands Tour takes couples to some of the region’s most well-known wineries and for tours and tastings, some of which include unique pairings such as red wine with locally produced chocolate.

Intrepid thrill seekers honeymooning at One&Only Cape Town enjoy a wide variety of adventure activities available to them. Nearby Table Mountain offers a challenging day of climbing, while others may enjoy the rush that comes with hang-gliding, paragliding and skydiving. Those seeking something below the surface are encouraged to book a scuba diving excursion on the Cape Peninsula. Amateurs can participate in diving courses arranged from a variety of surf and dive shops around the city. For even more adrenalin, a one day shark cage diving adventure in the town of Hermanus is available.






As a preferred partner with the luxury safari lodges of Singita and Eagle Creek, One&Only Cape Town also provides a city respite between an upscale safari experience. All packages and excursions can be coordinated by the on-site concierge upon arrival.

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Spring Wedding Gowns

A romantic spring wedding is most anticipated for each girl, Spring is the time of year to unveil a new wardrobe and shed a few layers, and wedding dresses are no exception. As this season offers you new patterns, hemlines, and fabrics to choose from, here are five features to look for in a spring wedding dress.




Complement a spring garden setting with a floral-embellished dress. From embroidered blossoms to 3-D buds, these nature-inspired elements can provide color to whimsy sheaths and ball gowns alike. Wear an airy A-line dress with floral add-ons on the bodice and waistline, or tone it down with a lightly floral-embellished sweep train for a subtle (yet distinct) spring style.





If flowers are too feminine, look to propper details and patterns to evoke the spirit of the season. A gingham ribbon trim or a hint of polka dots could add the perfect finishing touch to an already gorgeous gown. Consider a dress with a pleated bodice or find a patterned sash to wear around your waist.




For a wedding dress that reflects the spring season, light and airy fabrics are ideal. Think chiffon, charmeuse, and organza. Let a spring breeze wisp your chiffon train as you walk down the aisle, or go for a spaghetti-strap, organic Swiss Dot silk cotton number for an outdoor spring wedding under the trees.



A romantic spring wedding is most anticipated for each girl, Spring is the time of year to unveil a new wardrobe and shed a few layers, and wedding dresses are no exception. As this season offers you new patterns, hemlines, and fabrics to choose from, here are five features to look for in a spring wedding dress.




Trend 1: Flowers

Complement a spring garden setting with a floral-embellished dress. From embroidered blossoms to 3-D buds, these nature-inspired elements can provide color to whimsy sheaths and ball gowns alike. Wear an airy A-line dress with floral add-ons on the bodice and waistline, or tone it down with a lightly floral-embellished sweep train for a subtle (yet distinct) spring style.


Trend 2: Propper Details



If flowers are too feminine, look to propper details and patterns to evoke the spirit of the season. A gingham ribbon trim or a hint of polka dots could add the perfect finishing touch to an already gorgeous gown. Consider a dress with a pleated bodice or find a patterned sash to wear around your waist.



Trend 3: Sheer Fabrics


For a wedding dress that reflects the spring season, light and airy fabrics are ideal. Think chiffon, charmeuse, and organza. Let a spring breeze wisp your chiffon train as you walk down the aisle, or go for a spaghetti-strap, organic Swiss Dot silk cotton number for an outdoor spring wedding under the trees.



Trend 4: Cashmere Cover-ups


Don't be fooled by all the sunshine. In most parts of the country, nighttime temperatures in the spring can drop into the 50s, especially in March and early April. Instead of a wrap, try a sophisticated cashmere cardigan. Three-quarter sleeves or even a full-length cover-up will keep you warm without distracting from your gown.

Try these designers: Carolina Herrera, Platinum for Priscilla of Boston


A romantic spring wedding is most anticipated for each girl, Spring is the time of year to unveil a new wardrobe and shed a few layers, and wedding dresses are no exception. As this season offers you new patterns, hemlines, and fabrics to choose from, here are five features to look for in a spring wedding dress.




Trend 1: Flowers

Complement a spring garden setting with a floral-embellished dress. From embroidered blossoms to 3-D buds, these nature-inspired elements can provide color to whimsy sheaths and ball gowns alike. Wear an airy A-line dress with floral add-ons on the bodice and waistline, or tone it down with a lightly floral-embellished sweep train for a subtle (yet distinct) spring style.


Trend 2: Propper Details



If flowers are too feminine, look to propper details and patterns to evoke the spirit of the season. A gingham ribbon trim or a hint of polka dots could add the perfect finishing touch to an already gorgeous gown. Consider a dress with a pleated bodice or find a patterned sash to wear around your waist.



Trend 3: Sheer Fabrics


For a wedding dress that reflects the spring season, light and airy fabrics are ideal. Think chiffon, charmeuse, and organza. Let a spring breeze wisp your chiffon train as you walk down the aisle, or go for a spaghetti-strap, organic Swiss Dot silk cotton number for an outdoor spring wedding under the trees.



Trend 4: Cashmere Cover-ups


Don't be fooled by all the sunshine. In most parts of the country, nighttime temperatures in the spring can drop into the 50s, especially in March and early April. Instead of a wrap, try a sophisticated cashmere cardigan. Three-quarter sleeves or even a full-length cover-up will keep you warm without distracting from your gown.

Try these designers: Carolina Herrera, Platinum for Priscilla of Boston




Let your legs bask in some of that spring sunlight. With short gowns becoming ever more popular on the bridal runways, we can't think of a better way to show off toned and tanned gams. Find a mini dress that will really show off your figure, or go for a tea-length dress paired with peep-toed heels for a fun and flirty look.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Celebrate your wedding day at Hyatt


http://www.hyattweddings.com/



Celebrate your wedding day at Hyatt and enjoy free nights on your honeymoon.

Dreams do come true when you celebrate your wedding at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. We promise that no detail will be overlooked—not even the honeymoon. We make every wedding more than memorable and every guest—particularly the bridal party—more than welcome.

Now a dream wedding at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts comes with the opportunity for a honeymoon to match:

* Book your wedding and receive up to five complimentary nights* at a participating Hyatt Resort in the United States, Mexico or Aruba.
* Offer valid for weddings and honeymoons held and completed by December 31, 2011.

Our experienced catering and event managers will assist you in all aspects of planning your remarkable day, from picking the menu and on-site activities for your guests to floral selection and photography.

When the cost of your wedding totals the following minimum amounts, you’ll receive complimentary nights at a participating Hyatt Resort of your choice:

* $10,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 2-night stay
* $20,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 3-night stay
* $30,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 4-night stay
* $40,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 5-night stay

Additional nights and other options can be added to this offer through a Hyatt Wedding Specialist.

For more information, please submit your contact information and preferred wedding hotels/honeymoon destinations, and a Hyatt Wedding Specialist will contact you. Please reference code WEDNIGHTS.

*Offer subject to complete terms and conditions; please review for more information.

Elite Island Resorts Antigua

$1000 Credit Per Couple + Free Wedding

* Valid From: 02/04/2011
* Valid Until: 12/20/2011
* Reservations: 1-800-771-4711
* Website: VISIT WEBSITE






$1000 Credit Per Couple + Free Wedding
For new bookings only. Valid for all-inclusive stays of 7 nights or longer at published rate. Not combinable with any other offer.* Subject to availability, some restrictions apply. Valid thru December 20, 2011.

*Bonus: Free Wedding

Free Wedding Package (valued at $1199) on all-inclusive stays of 7 Nights or Longer when confirmed in upper categories as specified below.

* St. James's Club - Beachfront Accommodation
* The Verandah Resort & Spa - Waterfront Suite
* Galley Bay Resort & Spa - Premium Beachfront Suite
* Palm Island Resort - Beachfront Accommodation

What could be better than starting your new life together as a married couple in an elegant, romantic, tropical setting? Your hardest decision will be which of our nine idyllic beachfront resorts to choose.

No matter if you prefer the grand sophistication of Antigua or the exclusivity of our private island resort, Palm Island, you can be assured that every detail of your special day will be handled with absolute care by our professional wedding coordinators

We look forward to making all your island-wedding dreams come true.

Caymanite Paradise Grand Cayman

Includes: 5 nights in a Deluxe Beachfront Studio Suite with patio or balcony and Jacuzzi and full wedding package!





•Your Beach wedding ceremony with Marriage Officer and Wedding License

•Professional Photographer for two hours with high res CD

•Decorated Signing Table with choice of fresh floral arrangement

•Choice of Bridal Bouquet and Groom’s Boutonniere

•Bottle of chilled Dom Perignon after Ceremony

•Decorated bamboo wedding arch with conch shell and rose petal aisle

•Deluxe Wedding cake (your choice of flavor) for two with fresh floral decoration

•Wedding soloist – your choice of steel drums, harpist, violinist or guitarist (depending on individual availability)

•5 nights in a Deluxe Beachfront Studio Suite with patio or balcony and Jacuzzi

•Bottle of chilled French champagne, fine Icoa handmade Cayman chocolates, pair of Cuban cigars and Island bath treats waiting for you in your room upon arrival




http://www.thereef.com/en/weddings/weddingPackages.html



•Choice of ‘Morning after breakfast for two’ delivered to your room

•Romantic Candlelit Dinner for two with bottle of champagne on beach with dedicated server

•Your choice of Stingray City Trip or Kayak Tour for two

•Pair of local precious gemstones, Caymanite, choice of blessing stones or pendants

Terms & Conditions:
TheReef Resort guarantees only one wedding per day.
Packages include all taxes/service fees and gratuites.
Please view Cayman Islands Marriage Requirements http://www.thereef.com/en/weddings/legalRequirements.html

Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso Mexico

Free wedding package when you book 5 rooms or more for 3+ nights OR a Grand Oceanfront Room for 7+ nights at:
Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso — Riviera Maya, Mexico

Iberostar Grand Hotels Free Wedding Package*:
Minister Fees a
Flowers for bride & groom
Wedding cake
Champagne toast
10% off spa services
Complimentary room for the groom the night before the wedding
FREE room upgrade for the wedding couple










Terms & Conditions:
*To qualify for a free wedding package you must book 5 rooms or more for 3+ nights or a Grand Oceanfront Room for 7+ nights at Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso, Iberostar Grand Hotel Bávaro or Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall. Complimentary rooms and room upgrades are subject to availability. Complimentary wedding cake and champagne toast are for 10 persons, additional food and beverage will incur an extra charge. Subject to availability. Based on double occupancy. Blackout dates and restrictions may apply.

Call 888.923.2722 for booking. Subject to change without notice. Iberostar does not assume responsibility for errors or omissions within the context of this advertisement.

Jade Mountain St. Lucia




TAKE THE PLUNGE - Elope for FREE in Summer 2011 at Jade Mountain

* Valid From: 04/01/2011
* Valid Until: 04/30/2011
* Reservations: 800-223-1108
* Email: jademountain@ansechastanet.com
* Website: VISIT WEBSITE

Guests staying in one of the infinity pool sanctuaries at JADE MOUNTAIN can TAKE THE PLUNGE not only in the literal sense: Couples wishing to get married at JADE MOUNTAIN can do so free of charge if they are staying a minimum 5 nights at JADE MOUNTAIN between August 1 - September 30, 2011. The free wedding includes costs of the Justice of the Peace, registrar, wedding license, marriage certificate and all legal fees; expert services of our personal wedding coordinator and JADE MOUNTAIN team members to handle all arrangements; messenger service and transportation of documents; witnesses, if required; use of half-day room for groom if required; choice of wedding locations on 600 acre property including Treehouse and Kai La Mer; decoration of wedding location; decorated wedding arch; wedding bouquet; button hole for groom; wedding cake; bottle of champagne; special decorated dinner table for wedding party.

The free wedding can be combined with other promotional offers if applicable. Rates at Jade Mountain start at US 1250 nightly for 2 in a star sanctuary, plus 18% tax/service. If you wish to take the plunge between Aug 1 - Sep 30, 2011 contact us at jademountain@ansechastanet.com or call 800-223-1108 for further information.

Friday, April 1, 2011

Black Bride.com's First Annual Bridal Showcase



Sunday April 17th, 2011

11:00AM to 5:00 PM
$10 in advance
$12 at the door
(space is limited, may not be available day of show)
Purchase Tickets

Marriott Marquis Hotel
265 Peachtree Center Ave
Atlanta, GA 30303














A bridal show like you have never seen, the ultimate wedding planning forum for all women of color! Looking for a unique way to decorate your reception while incorporating cultural traditions, or the latest trends in floral arrangements? Our bridal showcase will answer your wedding planning questions and provide interactive access to the best exhibitors in the business.

David Tutera In Charlotte! Sponsored by Behind The Scenes Inc

Just found out that the "Zen Bride & Groom" from My Fair Wedding's Season three will be there on Saturday! You can speak with them about the show and their experiences after the event!

This is going to be one event that you won't want to miss!!



Dinner With David
Friday April 1st 6pm - 10pm VIP Cocktail party with David Tutera upclose and personal!

Semi Formal Dress

5:30 guest check in
Passed Hor d'ouevres

* Book Signing - "The Big White Book of Weddings & My Fair Wedding" which will be on sale at the event
* Professional Photographer and Videographer will be at the event
* Parting gift bags with party favors for each guest
* Question and Answer session with David

An up close and personal event with David and Charlotte area brides and wedding professionals!


The Tutera Touch
Saturday April 2nd 11am - 3pm

The Tutera Touch: Wedding Presenation and Book Signing

Relaxed Dress
10:00am - 10: 45am check in

* Includes lunch at noon
* The Tutera Touch: Creating a Wedding with Personal Style
* Question & Answers; There will be plenty of time for you to ask David your own question!
* Book Purchase & Signing " The Big White Book of Weddings" & "My Fair Wedding" Please no outside books
* Professional Photographer and Videographer will be on hand

Get the skinny on how he does such fantastic weddings and find out how you can get on My Fair Wedding!!