23 Ways to Keep Your Romance Alive

23 Ways to Keep Your Romance Alive

Ban the quick kiss, share a sexy secret code ... and other itty-bitty ways to make him lovesick for you every day of the week.

In a perfect world, each moment of a relationship would be like that weak-kneed romantic scene in The Notebook when Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams finally get together, kissing in the rain.

So what keeps us from living that swoony, loopy-in-love life? Nothing more than getting stuck in the same day-in, day-out patterns and letting gushiness shift to the back burner. Okay, maybe that and the lack of a beautiful African desert background. Let Cosmo play mushy-moments director and push you to pack as much lovey-doveyness as possible into your daily routine. That means seizing every opportunity to sweeten up even the most seemingly unsentimental times together.

Here, easy but so-worth-it ways to jump-start both of your hearts.

1. Share a Secret Code
Pick a word that's likely to come up occasionally in conversation (heat, midnight, bedroom, whipped cream...) and agree that every time someone uses it, you have to touch — anything from a kiss to a lingering thigh stroke under the table.

2. Transform Dinner into Dining
That midweek post-grind meal you devour together? Make it register off the mush-o-meter with some tiny adjustments to the atmosphere. "Pull out your nicest dishes and light a couple of candles, even if you're just having a mushroom pizza," suggests Gregory Godek, author of 1001 Ways to Be Romantic (Casablanca Press, 2000). "It's the mood, not the food, that sets a romantic scene. So stick a bouquet of daisies from the corner store in the center of the table, lower the lights, and turn up Enrique Iglesias or Bessie Smith. You could even conveniently forget the utensils so you have an excuse to feed each other."

3. Get Swept Off Your Feet
Make up your own tango moves and groove with your guy for 15 minutes while you wait for dinner. Pop in the Marc Anthony CD, then press your pelvises together, entwine your legs, and twist and twirl around the living room. "Slow dancing is so intimate," says Godek. "The way you stand hip-to-hip, block out the world, and sway to each other's rhythms ... now you're really cookin'."

4. Outlaw Grunge-Wear
You and your guy are having a Blockbuster night. But wait, think twice before you change into your lounging-on-the-couch clothes ... you know, oversize T-shirt, shabby sweater. That gear isn't exactly a recipe for a night of making googly eyes. Instead, slip into something a little more comfortable but a lot more cuddle-enticing. "A fitted T-shirt or a semisheer tank top, especially when worn without a bra, is a lot sexier than some too-big shirt you're swimming in," says fashion designer and Cosmo contributing editor Shoshanna Lonstein. "Pair it with your favorite perfectly worn-out blue jeans or khaki cutoffs for a casual but irresistible look."

5. Dish with Him
Flash back to the '50s and get passionate over pots and pans. "Okay, it's totally old-fashioned and cornball, but I find doing dishes together incredibly romantic," says Janet, a 28-year-old chiropractor. "My dishwasher went on the blink one night, and my boyfriend offered to help clean up. We both rolled up our sleeves and got sudsy in the warm water. We talked about the places we'd love to travel to, the crazy things we'd like to try just once in our lives, and our hands kept touching — we just got completely lost in each other as we did this mindless activity. It was so sweet and oddly intimate that I haven't bothered to get the dishwasher fixed."

6. Touch Tenderly in Front of the TV
When you're both chilling out in front of the tube, heat things up with some hands-on action. "Give each other mini foot massages while watching the evening news," suggests Laura Corn, author of 101 Nights of Grrreat Romance (Park Avenue Publishers, 1995). "Or lay your head in his lap and let him stroke your hair." For the ultimate drive-in date experience, invest in an extralong extension cord and watch TV outside on the deck or on lawn chairs on the front stoop underneath the stars.

7. Flash Him
When no one's looking, give your guy a sneak peek in public. Granted, it's not exactly violins-in-the-background romantic, but it's certainly guaranteed to send his heart (and pulse) soaring.

8. Send Him a Sweet Afternoon Treat
If you know your guy's facing a particularly grueling, sucky afternoon at the office, call up a local restaurant that delivers and send him an I'm-thinking-about-you lunch, suggests Ilene Rosenzweig, coauthor of Swell: A Girl's Guide to the Good Life (Warner Books, 1999). Let him know dessert's waiting at your place later.

9. Play the Dating Game
Get out of the same old Saturday-night film-and-food groove. For your next date, come up with three out-of-the-ordinary evening ideas — perhaps a starlit ferry ride, a game of mini golf, dinner at a restaurant with a kind of food you've never tried, or even seen, before — and write them down on index cards, suggests David D. Coleman, coauthor of Date Smart! How to Stop Revolving and Start Evolving in Relationships (Prima Publishing, 1999). "Then, have your guy blindly choose one of the cards and embark on a mysterious, exotic adventure."

10. Keep Him in the Dark
For the ultimate lights-out love nudge, fake a power outage. "Unplug the phone, computer, and TV, then turn off all the lights," instructs Godek. "With nothing else to distract you, you have no choice but to break out the candles and cling to each other as you tell scary ghost stories ... or just plain cling to each other."

11. Ban the Peck
Replace that chaste, no-effort lip graze with a 10-second smooch — and make every single kiss a bit of bliss.

12. Map Out the Hot Spots in Your Neighborhood
Make it your mission to fool around in every prime passion nook of your neighborhood — behind trees, on nearby park benches, under a lamppost. Every time you walk out your front door with your dream guy, hit one of these desire-designated areas until you have the whole area PDA'd.

13. Write Him a Sexy Check
While you're taking care of the bills, take care of your guy with a personal payment for head-to-toe kisses, suggests Godek. "Tell him he can cash in anytime."

14. Make Out Every Time You're Alone in an Elevator
Use this love-lifter as a cue to sneak in a secret smooch session.

15. Read Seductive Stories to Each Other
Pick up a steamy best-seller like Vox, by Nicholson Baker (it certainly got Monica boiling for Bill), and take turns reading it aloud. "My boyfriend and I love sharing juicy novels," says Liz, a 30-year-old producer. "We'll get in bed or curl up on the couch and take turns being the narrator. At first I was a bit nervous and rigid — I sounded like Rod Serling from The Twilight Zone — but eventually I found my natural rhythm and got really turned on by it. It's so utterly romantic because we're in this sort of fantastical fictional world together rather than sticking our noses in our respective books. And listening to my boyfriend's voice is unbelievably sexy."

16. Go Postal
Create some surprising postal passion by mailing I-want-you notes to your man. Start by telling him exactly what you love about every part of his body.

17. Play Barber Babe
Show your man some passionate pampering by giving him a sensual shave. After his morning shower, lather up his face with a great-smelling shaving cream and slide the razor in the direction the hair grows. "It's a way to steal a very intimate moment when you're both usually so rushed to get out the door," says Kelly, a 26-year-old massage therapist who loves to groom her guy. "Not to mention the perfect excuse to straddle him."


18. Tempt Him with a Slew of Where-to-Find-You Clues
Make your usual rendezvous a million times racier by keeping them mysterious for your man. "I have a standing Friday-evening drink date with my boyfriend," says Sue, a 27-year-old tax attorney. "To keep it exciting, I have this trick for spicing things up: I send him on a treasure hunt ... to find me. I pick an obscure, out-of-the-way bar, one we'd never normally go to in a million years. Then every hour on the hour during the workday, I send my boyfriend an e-mail feeding him clues about where I want him to meet me that night — little riddles that hint at the name, landmarks that will lead him to the location. When he puts all the pieces together, he finds me waiting in the most private booth I can find. Now he's scheming up the next mystery meeting."

19. Hold the Sports Section Hostage
Steal the paper before your guy gets a chance to check out the scores. Place a ransom note on his pillow and insist that your demands for a.m. sex, smooching, and snuggling be met before you'll consider giving him access to the stats.

20. Outlaw Work Talk
Make office gripes and groans a taboo topic when having dinner with your doll. "My boyfriend and I make meals our time," says Anne, a 29-year-old furniture maker. "We talk about upcoming vacations, friends, movies — anything that lets us share ideas instead of bombarding each other with tales of work woes. After eight hours of focusing on other people on the job, it's such a luxurious treat to indulge in some time that's all about us." If professional topics accidentally pop up, quash them by saying, "Get your mind out of the grind and back onto me."

21. Give Him an All-Day "Scentual" Reminder
"The next time your guy sleeps over, spritz a small item of clothing — scarf, underwear, camisole — with your signature fragrance, and slyly slip it into his briefcase or backpack," suggests author Corn. "With your sexy scent wafting out every time he reaches into his bag, he won't be able to take his mind off of you." When the clock strikes 5, he'll follow his nose all the way to your front door.

22. Get a Sound Track
Create your relationship repertoire by picking a few favorite songs (a sentimental score, a sultry in-the-mood croon, a sassy "Feel the Earth Move"-type number) that really capture the essence of your couplehood and make them yours by playing them on romantic, sexy occasions.

23. Compliment Each Other in Public
"My girlfriend tells everyone that I'm the most talented person she's ever met," says Andrew, 28, a teacher. "She'll tell a cashier, 'We'll take a chocolate brownie because my guy so deserves it.' When she introduces me, she says, 'This is my hilariously funny boyfriend' or 'Meet my handsome boyfriend. He puts George Clooney to shame.' My heart jumps every time. I swear it makes going to the deli sexy."



Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

The Destination Wedding Workbook Pt III

The Destination Wedding Workbook
by Paris Permenter & John Bigley, editors of Lovetripper.com

Would you like to get married on your honeymoon?

Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular. Around the world, you'll find hotels and resorts that offer on-site help to plan your wedding, from details like the wedding license to extras such as music and photos.

To help couples, we've written The Destination Wedding Workbook, a 158-page guide that covers everything you need to consider when planning a destination wedding. Whether the special day involves just the two of you or whether you'll be inviting friends and relatives to join in the occasion, this workbook includes timelines, worksheets, questions you MUST ask, and more!

We have compiled this book following hundreds of interviews with wedding planners, hotel managers, food and beverage managers, travel agents, and brides just like you. This guide includes:

* Budgeting for your destination wedding
* Budgeting for your honeymoon
* Questions for each other about the wedding
* Questions for other brides
* Questions for resort wedding coordinators
* Questions for local wedding planners
* Questions on traveling to international destinations
* Your Travel Itinerary
* Cruise Passenger Itinerary
* Emergency numbers worksheet
* Confirmation number worksheet
* Wedding coordinator worksheet
* Newspaper announcements
* Timeline
* Save the date card
* Guest list
* Guest newsletter
* Site inspections
* Group airline arrangements
* Booking a room block for guests
* Reception worksheet

Destination Weddings Pt II: Where to Marry

Destination Weddings: Where to Marry

Where will the two of you marry? Do you dream of an intimate beach ceremony as the sun slips into a tropical sea? A regal ceremony set in an historic castle? A mountain chapel with a handful of your family and friends?

You've got a world of choices -- now all you need to do is match your dream to a destination. Use these pages to start narrowing your choices, based on local marriage regulations, climate, atmosphere, and cost. You'll find details and in-depth articles about destinations around the world in this section.

Step one: are the marriage rules of the destination going to be a fit with your schedule? Some destinations such as France require a long, long residency period, making those locations better for a vow renewal than a destination wedding. Check our database of marriage regulations around the world to see if your dream destination will work for your travel schedule:

Marriage Regulations and Rules: This extensive section covers the details you'll need to know to get a marriage license, from residency requirements to blood tests to paperwork. This section includes the 50 US states and destinations worldwide.

Step two: check out the destinations to find learn more about planning a wedding there:

USA Weddings

Caribbean Destination Weddings

Mexico Weddings

Weddings in Canada, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the South Pacific

Step 3: let the planning begin!

Planning a Destination Wedding

Destination Weddings

Destination Weddings: Are They for You?


Many couples are saying "I do" to the idea of destination weddings not only as a way to make the occasion more special, but also as a means of simplifying the whole process.

Would you like to get married on your honeymoon? Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular with couples who are eager to skip the fuss of a traditional wedding and jump right into the fun. Around the world, you'll find hotels and resorts that offer on-site help to plan your wedding, from details like the wedding license to extras such as music and photos. Whether the special day involves just the two of you or whether you'll be inviting friends and relatives to join in the occasion, a destination wedding can be a way to create wonderful memories.

POPULARITY OF DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Destination weddings have caught on for several reasons. According to hotels and resorts around the world, they're especially popular with:

* couples on a budget who don't want the expense of an elaborate wedding.
* couples who don't want the fuss of a wedding and all that goes with it at home.
* couples on their second marriage looking for something a little different.
* those on their second marriage who'll need to bring along children on the
honeymoon. The children's programs at many resorts offer privacy for
the couple and a chance to enjoy a vacation with their new family.
* couples who are bringing a small wedding party. Sometimes the bride and groom
stay at one resort and the wedding party at a neighboring resort, giving
everyone privacy. Couples who are bringing a sizable wedding party and
would like to take over a resort.

Many small resorts like Florida's Little Palm Island offer groups the option of taking over the entire property. This type of stay must be arranged far in advance. The wedding party has the run of the resort for their stay, with plenty of room to party and play. "Little Palm Island is a really private, secluded getaway for wedding groups," explains Susan Belanski, Director of Sales. "We close off the entire island." When wedding parties take over an entire property like Little Palm Island, regular house rules, such as no guests under age 16, are suspended so wedding parties can invite anyone of their choice.

DETAILS, DETAILS

Before you say "I do," plan to do a little research into the "do"s --and "don't"s -- of the local marriage laws. Many countries have loosened their marriage regulations, making it easier for foreigners to tie the knot. Even so, you'll need to do some research.

"The reason some couples have problems with their overseas wedding is that they are unfamiliar with the marriage laws, rules and regulations. In researching your destination wedding, couples make sure they learn:

* if their home country will recognize a wedding in the designated
country as valid
* the minimum residency period before the marriage can be performed
* what paperwork you'll need to bring from your hometown house of worship
if you're planning a religious ceremony
* what proof is required if you're divorced or widowed
* if blood tests are required and, if so, if you can bring them from your
home doctor or if must they be performed locally
* if there will be English-speaking staff members available to assist you
* costs and fees
* typical weather during the month of your wedding
* special hotel rates for members of the wedding party
* what previous experience the hotel or resort has in planning foreign weddings

Destination weddings can also lead to another joyous celebration: destination anniversaries. Couples who wed on their honeymoon can revisit the very spot where they married and share the memories of that occasion.


by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

Plan for a Wedding Day, Prepare for a Lifetime of Marriage

Plan for a Wedding Day, Prepare for a Lifetime of Marriage
I love weddings. I love the idea of giving yourself completely to the one you love and who loves you back. A wedding represents such a special union between two people and it should be celebrated. It should even include all the beautiful details we dream about from childhood and the pages of the latest bridal fashion magazines. With that I have to admit, as much as I love weddings and the details that go into planning a perfect day, I am more in love with marriage itself and the whole process a couple needs to go through to "learn" each other. (Notice I didn't say teach.)It is true that marriage isn't easy, but nothing worthwhile is ever easy. We always have to work for the things we appreciate most.Take my advice: When planning a wedding, first things first, register for couples education.This will be your most important task when planning a wedding. The choices you make now before you wed will determine the success of your marriage and relationship. "Love Is Blind" and the divorce rate is a statistic that proves this saying all too well.You and your mate need to take responsibility for the future of your marriage. Unless you have been well trained and educated in relationship 101 or marriage boot camp, you can only be realistic that you need some guidance before the big day arrives.Think of it this way...Marriage is like flying a plane. You would never take the controls and fly a plane without education and training...it doesn't just take care of itself. Also, it is inevitable, that as a pilot, you will encounter turbulence, rainy days and stormy weather...(similar to marriage) this does not make you a bad pilot (spouse)...how you handle yourself in these situations will determine what you're made of. It only makes sense to be prepared with skills and education, so that when you experience turbulence in your relationship you are prepared as a couple to weather the storm.

Rehearsal Dinner What is it?

Rehearsal Dinner What is it?

A rehearsal dinner is typically an informal meal after a wedding rehearsal, which takes place the night before the actual wedding. It's a chance for the wedding party to get to know each other better, and most importantly, it's a chance for the bride and groom to thank all the people who have helped them out with the wedding planning.

Do I have to have one?

You don't have to have one, but there are very few reasons not to. You're going to need to eat on that night anyway, why not eat with your loved ones?

Who pays?

Traditionally the groom's parents pay but nowadays you'll often see couples include the cost in their overall wedding planning budget. Another scenario is for both parents to host it together.

Who plans it?

It is traditionally the realm of the groom's mother. Check in with your mother-in-law and see if she is willing and able to do so. If she wants to, it's a good idea to let her – it gives her a role in the wedding and even if the rehearsal dinner is completely different from your taste, guests will presume that you didn't plan it.

What happens at a rehearsal dinner?

Along with eating, of course, the bride and groom offer up thanks and toast their families and the wedding party. There are often many other informal toasts. Sometimes this toasting becomes a roasting of the bride and groom – but it's all in good fun. You may also plan ice-breaking games or other activities including poker, pool, darts, a short funny home-movie, or backyard games. If you're not having a bridesmaid's luncheon, this is also an appropriate time to give bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts.

How do I invite my guests?

Typically, printed invitations are sent a few days after you send the wedding invitation. These don't need to be elegant and expensive – the easiest thing to do is to get the templates to print on your home computer.

Do I have to invite out-of-town guests?

Once upon a time, a rehearsal dinner was only for the wedding party and the immediate family of the bride and groom. Now, wedding magazines will tell you that you have to invite all of the out-of-town guests. Here's my opinion: it is a nice gesture, so that you don't leave them at loose ends in a strange town the night before the wedding. However, if you don't invite them, you can include a list of restaurants or things to do in the area on your wedding website. Also, you can hold the rehearsal dinner on the early side, and then include a note in your invitations saying "If you're in town the night before the wedding, we'd love to see you! We'll be at the East Side Pub after 9 pm – please join us if you can make it." A nice touch is to get the bar to provide pub snacks and appetizers to your guests, which will still be less expensive than providing them dinner.

What if I can't afford a rehearsal dinner?

First, reexamine your expectations – it doesn't have to be some grand formal thing at a restaurant or catering hall. Some of the best rehearsal dinners I've seen are relaxed backyard barbecues which allow people to really get to know each other. Set up a volleyball net or get a game of touch football going. It can even be a potluck. But do have one – it's your opportunity to thank all the people who made your wedding day possible.

Wedding Trivia

National Association of Wedding Ministers

Wedding Trivia

BAD LUCK
Seeing an open grave, pig, or lizard on the way to the ceremony, or hearing a crow after dawn on the morning of the wedding are all thought to be omens of bad luck. Catching a glimpse of a monk or a nun is also thought to be a omen of misfortune because of their association with poverty and chastity.

BEST MAN TRADITION
Among the Germanic Goths of northern Europe in 200 A.D., a man usually married a woman from within his own community. However, when there were fewer women, the prospective bridegroom would capture his bride from a neighboring village. The bridegroom was accompanied by his strongest friend (or best friend), who helped him capture his bride.

BRIDAL PARTY
This term has many origins from different cultures. In Anglo-Saxon times, the groom had the help of "bridesmen" or "brideknights" to help him capture and/or escort his bride. Later they would make sure that the bride got to the church and to the groom's home afterwards. The women who accompanied and assisted the bride were called "bridesmaids" or "brideswomen".

BRIDAL SHOWERS
Bridal showers were meant to strengthen the ties between the bride and her friends, provide her moral support, and help her prepare for her marriage. Gift giving at showers dates from the 1890's.

BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
The tradition of bridesmaids dressing the same as each other and in similar style to the bride comes from ancient days when it was believed that evil spirits have a more difficult time distinguishing which one is the bride and putting a hex on her.

CAKE
In the 1st century B.C. in Rome, the cake was thrown at the bride or broken over her head as one of the many fertility symbols which then were a part of the marriage ceremony. Cutting the wedding cake together, still a predominant ritual at weddings, symbolizes the couple's unity, their shared future, and their life together as one. The three tiered cake is believed to have been inspired by the spire of Saint Bride's Church in London, England.

CARRYING THE BRIDE OVER THE THRESHOLD
Traditionally, the bride had to enter her new home the first time through the front door. If she tripped or stumbled while entering it was considered to be very bad luck. Hence the tradition of the groom carrying the bride over the threshold.

DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING
The diamond engagement ring originated with King Maximillian who presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring in 1477 as a token of his love.

The Venetians Popularized the custom during the 15th. century. Since the diamond was the hardest and most enduring substance in nature it followed that the engagement and marriage would endure forever.

DOWRIES
As civilizations developed, political, military, and economic ties became very important to prominent families and clans. Arranged marriages were a means of cementing ties between families, middle class family businesses, and countries. A man's daughters, who were considered to be his property in those days, provided a means of securing needed alliances with other families. Thus dowries were introduced as a means attracting and securing the most beneficial family alliances possible.

ENGAGEMENT RING
In 860 A.D., Pope Nicholas I decreed that an engagement ring become a required statement of nuptial intent. He insisted that engagement rings had to be made of gold which signified a financial sacrifice on the part of the prospective husband.

FLOWERS
From the earliest times, brides have adorned their hair with flowers and carried bunches of flowers. Traditionally, each type of flower had a special meaning and significance in and of itself. Flowers were often thrown at the couple after the ceremony. However today, most brides pick their flowers for color and personal appeal not based on the traditional meaning of particular flowers.

The groom's flower, worn on his lapel, usually matches one of the flowers in his bride's bouquet. This tradition goes back to medieval times when knights wore the colors of their lady in tournaments.

GARTER AND BRIDAL BOUQUET TOSS
In parts of Europe during the 14th contrary, having a piece of the bride's clothing was thought to bring good luck. Guests would literally destroy the brides dress by ripping off pieces of fabric. In order to prevent this, brides began throwing various items to the guests - the garter belt being one of the items.

In order to avoid this problem, it became customary in the 14th century for the bride to toss her garter to the men. Sometimes the men would get drunk, become impatient, and try to remove the garter ahead of time. Therefore, the custom evolved for the groom to remove and toss the garter. With that change the bride started to toss the bridal bouquet to the unwed girls of marriageable age. Tradition says that whoever catches the bouquet shall be the next to marry. She keeps the bouquet to ensure this destiny.

GOOD LUCK
Seeing a lamb, frog, spider, black cat, or rainbows on the way to the ceremony is believed to be a sign of good luck!

GROOM'S CAKE
The tradition of a "Groom's Cake" comes from England and Ireland. There, the traditional groom's cake is a fruit cake with white icing. The groom's cake is usually served along with the traditional wedding cake. Today groom's cakes are very often chocolate instead of the traditional fruit cake.

HONEYMOON
After "kidnapping" his bride, the groom would take her and go into hiding. By the time the bride's family tracked them down them, the bride would probably already be pregnant! A "bride price" would then be negotiated.

An earlier source is the early Jewish custom of the bride and groom spending a week together alone immediately after the marriage feast. The earliest reference to this practice is Jacob's marriages to Leah and Rachel.

KISS THE BRIDE
T he kiss dates back to the earliest days of civilization in the Middle East. A kiss was used as the formal seal to agreements, contracts, etc. In Ancient Rome a kiss was still being used as the legal bold to seal contracts. Hence the obvious use of the custom at the end of the wedding ceremony to "seal" the marriage vows. It also originates from the earliest times when the couple would actually make love for the first time under the eyes of half the village!

LARGEST WEDDING
It was the largest mass wedding in history, when nearly 21,000 couples from the Moonie cult all got married on the same day. The event was also 'attended' by another 9,800 couples who took their vows via a satellite link.

LONGEST MARRIAGE
Sir Temulji Nariman and his wife Lady Nariman were hitched for a grand total of 86 years, although they did have a distinct advantage over most people. Both were aged just five when they got married.

MONTH TO MARRY
According to an old legend, the month in which you marry may have some bearing on the fate of the marriage:

* " Married when the year is new, he'll be loving, kind and true;
* When February birds do mate, you wed nor dread your fate;
* If you wed when March winds blow, joy and sorrow both you'll know;
* Marry in April when you can, joy for Maiden and for Man;
* Marry in the month of May, and you'll surely rue the day;
* Marry when June roses grow, over land and sea you will go;
* Those who in July do wed, must labour for their daily bred;
* Whoever wed in August be, many a change is sure to see;
* Marry in September's shrine, your living will be rich and fine;
* If in October you do marry, love will come but riches tarry;
* If you wed in bleak November, only joys will come, remember;
* When December snows fall fast, marry and true love will last".

MOST MARRIAGES
Of course, it's a sad fact that not all marriages last. But some people really do seem to make a habit of getting divorced. The person who is credited with being married the most times is former Baptist minister Glynn Scotty Wolfe, who has taken on 28 brides - and divorced 27 of them.

MOST EXPENSIVE DRESS
Wedding dresses can make a major dent in your budget, but however much you spend it will be nothing compared to the outfit created by French designer Helene Gainville. Estimated to be worth a cool £3.5 million, the dress is embroidered with diamonds mounted on platinum. Not the sort of thing you would want to put in the attic after the wedding day.

OLDEST BRIDES
The oldest recorded bride was Minnie Munro, who got hitched at a sprightly 102 years of age. Minnie, from Australia, wed a toy boy of 82. Britain's oldest recorded bride was just one day off her 100th birthday when she took her vows with a man nearly 20 years her junior. Apparently the age gap was not thought to be a problem for them.

PLAYING PRANKS
Playing pranks on the newlywed couple was also a tradition, which began with the intentions of warding off evil spirits. Loyal friends of the couple would do this in hopes that the spirits would take pity on the couple for already being picked upon enough, and would then leave the couple alone.

RICE THROWING
Rice has been used as a symbol of fertility and as a wish for a "full pantry" in various parts of the world from ancient to modern times. In the past, rice was not the only thing thrown at the bride and groom as the left the wedding. Wheat, instead of rice, was thrown in France, figs and dates were thrown in Northern Africa, and a combination of coins, dried fruit, and candy was thrown in Italy. In some European countries eggs are thrown!

Rice is not harmful to the birds that eat it, but an article in California professing this to be the case, has caused birdseed to replace rice at most weddings. Flower petals, confetti, baubles, and balloons are often used today instead of rice.

RING
Rings were used as currency in the Middle East prior to the advent of coinage and were a sign of a persons wealth. In ancient times the wedding ring was thought to protected the bride from "evil spirits". Ancient Roman wedding rings were made of iron.

In early Rome a gold band came to symbolize everlasting love and commitment in marriage. Roman wedding rings were carved with two clasped hands. Very early rings had a carved key through which a woman was thought to be able to open her husband's heart.

RING FINGER
In 3rd. century Greece the ring finger was the index finger. In India it was the thumb. The western tradition began with the Greeks who believed that the third finger was connected directly to the heart by a route that was called "the vein of love."

SECOND WEDDINGS
In almost half of U.S. weddings either the bride or groom has been married previously.

SHOES TO THE CAR
This tradition originated in England during the Tudor period. At that time, guests would throw shoes at the bride and groom as they left in their carriage. It was considered good luck if their carriage was hit. Today, more often than not, it is beverage cans that are tied to a couples car instead of shoes. It should also be noted that the English consider it good luck if it rains on their wedding day!

STAG PARTIES
In Sparta, during the height of Greek civilization, soldiers were the first to hold stag parties. The groom would have a party for his friends the night before he was to marry. He would bid farewell to his bachelorhood and pledge his continued allegiance to his comrades.

SATURDAY WEDDINGS
In early times, for Christians, Sunday was the original day of choice for weddings because it was not a work day. The Puritan revolution in England during the 17th century changed all that - because the Puritans thought it improper to be festive on the Sabbath, Saturday.

SOMETHING "OLD", "NEW", "BORROWED", AND "BLUE"
The tradition of carrying one or more items that are "old", "new", "borrowed" and "blue" also comes from English. There is an old English rhyme describing the practice which also mentions a sixpence in the brides shoe. Something old, signifying continuity, could be a piece of lace, jewelry, or a grandmother's handkerchief. Something new, signifying optimism in the future, could be an article of clothing or the wedding rings. Something borrowed, signifying future happiness, could be handkerchief from a happily married relative or friend. Something blue, signifying modesty, fidelity and love, comes from early Jewish history. In early Biblical times, blue not white symbolized purity. Both the bride and groom usually wore a band of blue material around the bottom of their wedding attire, hence the tradition of "something blue". Originally the sixpence was presented to the bride by her future husband as a token of his love. Today, very often, it is the bride's father who places a coin in the brides shoe prior to leaving home for the church.

"TO TIE THE KNOT"
The term "tie the knot" also goes back Roman times. the bride would wear a girdle that was tied in many knots which the groom had the "duty" of untying.
is the most popular day for wedding now.

TOAST
The term originates from the sixteenth century. At that time a small piece of bread would be placed in a goblet of wine. The goblet would be passed from guest to guest until it reached the person being honored who would drain the goblet and eat the morsel of bread in the bottom. This tradition is practiced at weddings today - usually in the form of one or more champagne "toasts". The best man has the honor of giving the first toast. Usually the bride and groom remain seated for the toasts while all the guests are usually standing to honor them. The couple may then make a few remarks thanking their families, wedding party members, and guests. They may also "toast" each other or share a "toast" together. Often special glass or silver goblets are used by the bride and groom.

TIN CANS
The tradition of tying tin cans to the back of the newlywed's vehicle originated long ago when items which would produce noise were tied to the back of the couple's carriage to scare away evil spirits.

VEIL
Brightly colored veils were worn in ancient times in many parts of the world and were considered a protection against evil spirits Greek and Roman brides for yellow or red veils (representing fire) to ward off evil spirits and demons. At one time, Roman brides were completely covered with a red veil for protection.

In early European history, with the advent of arranged marriages veils served another purpose - to prevent the groom from seeing the brides' face till after the ceremony was over. Brides began to wear opaque yellow veils. Not only could the groom not see in, the bride could not see out! Therefore, the father of the bride had to escort her down the aisle and literally give the bride to the groom.

Nellie Custis, the daughter of Martha Washington, is credited with wearing the first lace veil.

Today, prior to a Jewish wedding ceremony, it is the groom who ritually "veils the bride". This tradition goes back to the marriage of Jacob to Leah (the older sister) when he thought he was marrying Rachel (the younger sister) whom he loved.

WEARING A WEDDING RING
The reason that the engagement ring and wedding band is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand is because the ancient Egyptians thought that the "vein of love' ran from this finger directly to the heart.

WEDDING AS A TERM
Although some brides were kidnapped, marriage by purchase was the preferred method of obtaining a wife. The "bride price" could be land, social status, political alliances, or cash. The Anglo-Saxon word "wed" meant that the groom would vow to marry the woman, but it also referred to the bride price (money or barter) to be paid by the groom to the bride's father. The root of the word "wedding" literally means to gamble or wager!

WHITE WEDDING DRESS AS TRADITION
The tradition for the bride to wear white began in the 16th century and is still commonly followed today. This is a symbol of the bride's purity and her worthiness of her groom. The tradition became solidified during the time of Queen Victoria who rebelled against the royal tradition for Royal brides to wear silver. Instead, the queen preferred the symbolism, which is expressed by wearing white. The brides of the time quickly emulated the queen, and the tradition has continued in full force to this day.

WHY THE BRIDE STANDS TO THE GROOMS LEFT
After the bridegroom captured his bride, he placed her on his left to protect her, thus freeing his right hand or sword hand against sudden attack.

WHY IT BECAME "BAD LUCK" FOR THE GROOM TO SEE BRIDE BEFORE THE CEREMONY
Until relatively recently, brides were considered the property of their father. Their futures and husbands were arranged without their consent. The marriage of an unattractive woman was often arranged with a prospective groom from another town without either of them having ever seen their prospective spouse. In more than one instance, when the groom saw his future wife, usually dressed in white, for the first time on the day of the wedding, he changed his mind and left the bride at the altar. To prevent this from happening, it became "bad luck" for the groom to see the bride on the day of the wedding prior to the ceremony.

Let's Talk About Cake

The Wedding Cake . . . history, customs and traditions


The history of the wedding cake goes back as far as the Roman Empire, well before the concept of elaborately icing a cake, was invented. Through the years, the wedding cake has become the focus of a variety of customs and traditions. Some of these customs have survived through time. Some have not. The custom of breaking the cake over the bride's head, is no longer practiced. The tradition may have its roots as far back as the Roman Empire. The groom would eat part of a loaf of barley bread baked especially for the nuptials and break the rest over his bride's head. History tells us that breaking the bread symbolized the breaking of the bride's virginal state and the subsequent dominance of the groom over her. As wedding cakes evolved into the larger, more modern version, it became physically impractical to properly break the cake over the bride's head. The tradition disappeared fairly quickly in some places, but there were still reports of breaking an oatcake or other breakable cakes over the bride's head in Scotland, in the 19th century. It's reported that in Northern Scotland, friends of the bride would put a napkin over her head and then proceed to pour a basket of bread over her. It's hard to say why some traditions endure and some do not, but the obvious male chauvinistic bent of this particular tradition probably leads to its early demise.

In Medieval England, cakes were described as breads which were flour-based foods without sweetening. No accounts tell of a special type of cake appearing at wedding ceremonies. There are, however, stories of a custom involving stacking small sweet buns in a large pile in front of the newlyweds. The couple would attempt to kiss over the pile. Success in the process was a sign that there would be many children in their future. .

First appearing in the middle of the17th century and well into the early 19th century, was a popular dish called the bride's pie. The pie was filled with sweet breads, a mince pie, or may have been merely a simple mutton pie. A main "ingredient" was a glass ring. An old adage claimed that the lady who found the ring would be the next to be married. Bride's pies were by no means universally found at weddings, but there are accounts of these pies being made into the main centerpiece at less affluent ceremonies. The name "bride cakes" emphasized that the bride was the focal point of the wedding. Many other objects also were given the prefix "bride," such as the bride bed, bridegroom and bridesmaid..

By the late 19th century, wedding cakes became really popular, and the use of the bride's pie disappeared. Early cakes were simple single-tiered plum cakes, with some variations. It was a while before the first multi-tiered wedding cake of today appeared in all its glory..

The notion of sleeping with a piece of cake underneath one's pillow dates back as far as the 17th century and quite probably forms the basis for today's tradition of giving cake as a "gift." Legend has it that sleepers will dream of their future spouses if a piece of wedding cake is under their pillow. In the late 18th century this notion led to the curious tradition in which brides would pass tiny crumbs of cake through their rings and then distribute them to guests who could, in turn, place them under their pillows. The custom was curtailed when brides began to get superstitious about taking their rings off after the ceremony..

In the minds of most people, wedding cakes are "supposed to be" white. The symbolism attached to the color white, makes explaining this tradition rather simple. White has always denoted purity, a notion as it relates to white wedding cake icing that first appeared in Victorian times. Another way in which a white wedding cake relates to the symbol of purity, has its basis in the fact that the wedding cake was originally referred to as the bride's cake. This not only highlighted the bride as the central figure of the wedding, but also created a visual link between the bride and the cake. Today, that link is being further strengthened as more contemporary brides have their wedding cakes coordinated with their wedding gown color, even if it's not white!.

Previous to Victorian times, most wedding cakes were also white, but not because of the symbolism. Using the color white for icing had a more pragmatic basis. Ingredients were very difficult to come by, especially those required for icing. White icing required the use of only the finest refined sugar, so the whiter the cake, the more affluent the families appeared. It was due to this fact that a white wedding cake became an outward symbol of affluence..

Wedding cakes take center stage in the traditional cake cutting ceremony, symbolically the first task that bride and groom perform jointly as husband and wife. This is one tradition that most of us have witnessed many times. The first piece of cake is cut by the bride with the "help" of the groom. This task originally was delegated exclusively to the bride. It was she who cut the cake for sharing with her guests. Distributing pieces of cake to one's guests is a tradition that also dates back to the Roman Empire and continues today. Following the tradition of breaking the bread over the bride's head, guests would scramble for crumbs that fell to the ground. Presumably the consumption of such pieces ensured fertility. But, as numbers of wedding party guests grew, so did the size of the wedding cake, making the distribution process impossible for the bride to undertake on her own. Cake cutting became more difficult with early multi-tiered cakes, because the icing had to be hard enough to support the cake's own weight. This, of necessity, made cutting the cake a joint project. After the cake cutting ceremony, the couple proceed to feed one other from the first slice. This provides another lovely piece of symbolism, the mutual commitment of bride and groom to provide for one another..

The Groom's Cake is a tradition that was prevalent in early American ceremonies, but seems to have fallen from favor in most contemporary weddings. The groom's cake was usually dark (e.g., chocolate) to contrast with the bride's cake. The groom's cake appeared at the reception along with the wedding cake. The origin of this tradition is unclear. Some believe it was to be served by the groom, with a glass of wine, to the bridesmaids. Others believe it was to be saved and subsequently shared with friends after the honeymoon. The tradition seems to have survived primarily in the South..

The once simple wedding cake has evolved into what today is a multi-tiered extravaganza. The multi-tiered wedding cake was originally reserved for English royalty. Even for the nobility, the first multi-tiered cakes were real in appearance only. Their upper layers were mockups made of spun sugar. Once the problem of preventing the upper layers from collapsing into the lower layers was solved, a real multi-tiered wedding cake could be created. Pillars as decoration existed long before multi-tiered cakes appeared, so it was a natural progression for cake bakers to try using pillars as a way to support the upper tiers. To prevent the pillars from sinking into the bottom tier, icing was hardened to provided the necessary support. .

There is hardly a bride today who can't resist saving the top layer of her multi-tiered cake. Most couples freeze the cake with the intention of sharing it on their first wedding anniversary. The tradition has its roots in the late 19th century when grand cakes were baked for christenings. It was assumed that the christening would occur soon after the wedding ceremony, so the two ceremonies were often linked, as were the cakes. With wedding cakes becoming more and more fancy and elaborate, the christening cake quickly took a back seat to the wedding cake. When three-tiered cakes became popular, the top tier was often left over. A subsequent christening provided a perfect opportunity to finish the cake. Couples could then logically rationalize the need for three tiers --- the bottom tier for the reception, the middle tier for distributing and the top for the christening. As the time between the weddings and the christenings widened, the two events became disassociated, and the reason for saving the top tier changed. Regardless of the underlying reason, when the couple finally does eat the top tier, it serves as a very pleasant reminder of what was their very special day.

This Article is Proudly Sponsored by Locust Tree Restaurant.

The Grooms Cake

Wedding grooms cake shapes, traditions and etiquette.



The history of the grooms cake or wedding grooms cake is hard to trace. Some articles note that recipes for grooms cake began appearing in American cookbooks in the early 19th century. These were usually fruitcakes, and traditionally more substantial and more alcoholic than the bride's cake (what we call the wedding cake), which was a lighter, more delicate confection.

Today, the grooms cake doesn't have to be a fruitcake, though it will still differ from the bride's cake and is usually smaller with darker filling and icing. For this reason, the wedding grooms cake is often a chocolate, carrot, or spice cake.

Nowadays, the bride often orders the cake with the grooms favorite filling and icing, and then keeps it a secret. A new tradition is for the bride to have the grooms cake made in the shape of something that represents his personality or interests. Since the wedding and reception are very much focused on the bride, the wedding grooms cake honors him in a special way.

Some wedding-etiquette consultants take the view that the groom's mother should bake the cake herself. This is a nice way to credit "mom's cooking." Other consultants aren't strict on this. Some even say that the groom may, if he prefers, order the cake and keep it a secret from the bride.

Often the grooms cake will be in the shape of something not very wedding-like, such as a football, car, or guitar. This is why it is sometimes served at the rehearsal dinner. Still, many prefer to share it at the reception, usually on a table separate from the wedding cake.

Traditionally, small pieces of grooms cake were wrapped and sent home with unmarried female guests. It was believed that if a maiden tucked the cake under her pillow, her dreams would reveal the man she was to marry. If you'd like to revive this tradition, wrap pieces of wedding grooms cake in foil and net or small gift boxes, and attach a note describing the superstition.

The wedding grooms cake may cost less than the bridal cake. But if it is ordered as a "groom's cake", it will likely cost more than if it were made exactly the same but called a "birthday cake".

While considering the grooms cake, you may want to consult with your fiance' to see how he would prefer this tradition to be carried out. After all, the purpose of the wedding grooms cake is to honor the groom!

June -- A Special Month

As we know the month of June is a special one...
We have Graduations, We have Birthdays, We have Weddings,
However we can't forget, We also have Fathers' Day....

Yes we are giving homage to those Fathers that are true Fathers....

To be classified as a father does not mean you had to be in on the creation. As a comedian once said it takes a special man to step in a raise a child that is not his. We pay homage to the single dads that have been there from beginning to now to be apart of that child's or those children lives.

"For Those Mothers that have to be the "Mother and the Father" we give you special thanks... Many women have raised their daughters and their sons to be outstanding adults. Some children feel there was a void in their life because they were raised by a single parent. Please by all means that is not the case.

Lets thank those uncles; godfathers; grandfathers; brothers; and even those male role models that have given us the courage to say you are doing good;
I will always be here for you....

My Dad is the joy of my life and means the world to me;
My Husband has been a wonderful father to our children;
My Father-n-law I thank you for creating a son that
that knows what it means to be a man and a wonderful father;
My Brothers - n- law you know how I feel about you guys;
My Male Friends - that are fathers, godfathers, uncles keep up the good work;


To the Brides and Grooms remember the most important day of your life is special as you join your union and become one.....

Because of that special person that has been with you from the time you were small till the time they can see that smile on your face or be with you in your heart remember to tell them thank you and HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

The Essence Music Festival

THE ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: New Orleans, Lousiana When: July 4-6, 2008
Are you ready for a super party weekend?

The festival has also augmented its main stage roster with the Essence debut of Rihanna, the Barbados- born singer whose "Umbrella" ranked among 2007's biggest hits; R&B diva Keyshia Cole; neo-soul singer Musiq; and rapper LL Cool J.

They join previously announced Essence headliners Kanye West and Chris Brown, performing on Friday, July 4; Jill Scott on Saturday, July 5; and Chris Rock and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly on Sunday, July 6.

Performance dates for Mary J. Blige, Morris Day & the Time and the new additions are not confirmed.

The superlounges also boast Peabo Bryson, Mint Condition, Raheem Devaughn, Grandmaster Flash, Gill Scott-Heron, Lyfe Jennings, Ledisi, Chrisette Michelle and Solange. Essence also announced the major speakers for its free, daytime empowerment seminars in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. New Orleans native turned film and television mogul Tyler Perry presides over the July 4 session with cast members from his "House of Payne" TV series.

On July 5, CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien hosts a televised interactive forum featuring Bill Cosby and Dr. Alvin Poussaint, the co-author, with Cosby, of "Come On, People: On the Path from Victims to Victors."

On July 6, gospel session features Bishop Paul S. Morton and Debra Morton, the Greater St. Stephens Full Gospel Church Choir, Regina Belle and Dr. Juanita Bynum.

www.essence.com/essence/events/

Part III - Sweet Sixteen

Sweet 16 birthday invitations can be found in a variety of locations. Consider ordering the invitations from retailers that specialize in wedding invitations. A wide variety of sweet 16 birthday invitations can also be found online.

Be sure to plan the progression of events for the party. A formal party or ball is vastly different from the informal gatherings that most of us are used to. You will need to select the music, decide on an order of dances, and determine whether to do a formal presentation of the birthday girl. Many families borrow liberally from the rituals of the Quinceanera and the debutante balls for ideas.

Consider whether to hire a band or a DJ. You may want an emcee to announce the proceedings, as well as someone to handle the music while you are otherwise occupied. The band or DJ will need specific instructions regarding the style of music, order of dances and other details.

You will need to decide on a menu for the party. Consider the practicalities of feeding the number of guests you plan to invite as well. A buffet-style service is significantly easier to manage than a formally served, sit down meal. Select foods that are light and festive.

Your menu will partly be determined by the time of day of the party. If the party begins later in the evening, it is reasonable to expect that guests will already have eaten. However, if the party overlaps the dinner hour, your menu should be more substantial.

Part II - Sweet Sixteen


Often parents’ desires clash with the wishes of teenagers. Forcing a girl who feels uncomfortable with the idea to go through elaborate rituals is not recommended. Likewise, do not allow yourself to be pushed by your daughter into hosting a party that you cannot afford or don’t wish to host. A sweet 16 birthday celebration can consist of any level of party from an informal get together to a full-scale ball. Negotiate and compromise to plan a party that is right for everyone involved.

If the sweet 16 birthday party will be formal, you will need to start planning well in advance. The preparations for such an event can rival those of most weddings. Book the ballroom or other site at least six months in advance. A year is not too early to book a popular location. You will also need to decide on clothing well in advance. If your daughter will wear a ball gown, it will need to be ordered in plenty of time to allow for fittings. Some prom dresses are appropriate, if you prefer an off-the-rack dress.

Send out invitations at least a month prior to the event. Depending on your family’s social circle, your daughter’s formal sweet 16 birthday is probably either very common or quite uncommon. If it is common, you want to be sure that your event does not clash with anyone else’s. If it is rare, you need to be sure to give attendees plenty of time to get their own clothing together.

How To Plan A Sweet 16 Birthday
Planning Your Daughter’s Sweet 16 Birthday Party
By Lisa Fritscher


A sweet 16 birthday is a big deal in many cultures. In the United States, 16 is a very important age and in most states, 16 is the age when teens get their drivers licenses. This rite of passage marks a greater sense of independence and provides a sort of dry run for adulthood, when teens are still young enough to be forgiven for childish mistakes, but old enough to accept increasing responsibilities. If you are planning a sweet 16 birthday celebration, try to keep these factors in mind in order to create the perfect party.

Traditionally, a sweet 16 birthday party is held only for girls. Boys tend to celebrate with their friends on an informal basis. If you want to plan a sweet 16 party for your son, there is no reason not to do so. Just make sure that he is comfortable with the idea. However, since most sweet 16 birthday party recipients are girls, the advice in this article will be primarily geared toward girls’ celebrations.

The sweet 16 birthday can be considered a blending of the Spanish and Latina Quinceanera with the American debutante tradition. The sweet 16 birthday party is traditionally a time for the girl’s first formal party. Many families spend large amounts of money on these events, renting a hall or ballroom and inviting an ever-increasing list of guests. The party may be quite ritualized, including a set dance list, escorts, flower girls, and other displays of pageantry.

If you want to host a large formal event for your daughter’s sweet 16 birthday, check with your daughter first.

Wedding Flowers

Find Wedding Flower Availabilities and Colors Picking wedding flowers in season can save you a bunch of money. Sure, growers are now able to fly almost anything in from the other side of the world, but you'll pay a premium for that. Here is a US guide to what flowers are generally in season to help you get started. Talk specifically to your florist or grower about what is available. This chart can also help you decide when to get married. If you want huge amounts of different pink flowers, fall might not be the best time for you to get married. On the other hand, if adore zinnias and dahlias, perhaps you should have a fall wedding. Spring Wedding Flowers in Season Anemone * Blue, red, pink, white * Jan-May and Aug-Dec Bells of Ireland * Green * January-October Boronia * Pink * April-May Casa Blanca Lily * White * January-October Daffodil * Yellow * January-Early May Delphinium * White, Blue * April- October Hyacinth * Purple, Pink or White Lilacs * Violet or White Narcissus * White Peony * Pink or White * Late Spring – Early Summer Ranunculus * white, pink, red, orange and yellow * February-May Star Gazer Lily * Pink and White * January-October Sweetpea * white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple * December-May Tulip * Many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple * December-April Waxflower * pinky purple and white Summer Wedding Flowers in Season Alstromeria * orange, pink, yellow and cream, other colors Bells of Ireland * Green * January-October Chrysanthemum * White, Yellow, Orange, Pink, other colors English Lavender * Purple Forget-me-not * Blue Freesia * White, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Purple Gerbera Daisy * Pink, Yellow, Orange, Red, White Hydrangea * White, Blue, Purple, Pink Iris * Purple, Blue, White Larkspur * White, Purple, Blue, Pink Liatris * Pinkish Purple Lily, asiatic * White, Pink, Yellow, Orange Lily, oriental * White, Pink Lisianthus * Purple, White, Pink Matsumoto Asters * Pink, Purple Monte Casino Asters * White, Purple Queen Anne's Lace * White Snapdragons * Pink, Yellow, Orange, White, Other Colors Solidaster * Yellow Statice * Purple Stephanotis * White Stock * White, Other Colors Sunflower * Yellow Tuberose * White Yarrow * White, Pink, Yellow Zinnia * Red, Orange, Pink Fall Wedding Flowers Aster * White, Pink Chrysanthemum * White, Yellow, Orange, Pink, other colors Dahlia * Many Colors Marigold * Yellow, Orange, Red Statice * Purple Zinnia * Red, orange, pink * Dried Leaves Winter Wedding Flowers Amaryllis * Red, White Anemone * Blue, red, pink, white * Jan-May and Aug-Dec. Bells of Ireland * Green * January-October Camellias * White, Pink Casa Blanca Lily * White * January-October Cosmos * Pink, White, Brown, Other Colors Daffodil * Yellow * January-Early May Forget-me-nots * Blue Holly * Green with Red Berries Jasmine * White Narcissus * White, Yellow Poinsettia * Red, White Ranunculus * white, pink, red, orange and yellow * February-May Star Gazer Lily * Pink and White * January-October Star of Bethlehem * White Sweetpea * white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple * December-May Tulip * Many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple * December-April Waxflower * Pink, White Wedding Flowers Available Year RoundBaby's Breath * White Bachelor's Button * White, Pink, Red or Blue Calla Lily * White is widely available, other colors, available as well, particularly in mini size Carnations * Many Colors Delphinium * Blue, White, Purple Eucalyptus * Blue, Silver Gardenia * White Gladiolus * Many Colors Heather * Pink Lily of the Valley * White and Pink Orchid * Pink, White, Purple, Other Colors Protea * Pink Rose * Many Colors ***February at a premium Scabiosa * Purple, White By Nina Callaway, About.com

The Color Scheme

It's Your Day to Pick Your Favorites

Every detail of your wedding should reflect your favorites, from gown to shoes, flowers to food.

The color scheme you select will set the tone for the day and the events surrounding your wedding. You can also add sophistication or simplicity through the colors you select. Generally, your color scheme will often carry into the attendants' dresses, table settings, and flowers. See our choices for some wonderful color schemes for weddings.

All White and Green

In weddings, as in life, white is not white and green is not green. Each color has a wide variety of hues from which to choose. But the color combination is a winner and gives you lots of choices, from pure white to ivory to the palest of pinks. If your gown is ivory, it's best to select fabrics for napkins and tableskirts, as well as flowers, in a complimentary shade.

If you've selected a snow white dress, choose snow white flowers. Some choices for white flowers are iris, sweet pea, peonies, orchids, lilacs, camellias, daisies, and carnations. For a softer hue, look for roses, tulips, freesia, or lily of the valley. When selecting greens, you can go from a fresh lime green to the deep green of camellias or leatherleaf ferns. If you want a brighter green, look for leaves from citrus trees, fresh grasses, or green berries.

Pink and Red

With Green Use pastel or bright pink flowers and add accents of red. Or go the other way around--red flowers with accents of bright or pale pink. Add tones of lavendar or purple from hydrangea. For texture and an loose look, use berries in deep shades of red with green foliage.

Soft Blush Tones

Create an elegant statement at your wedding if you choose pale blush colors for flowers and accents. Colors can range from soft pink to soft peach and ivory. Add touches of pearl to accent. Roses are a good choice to enhance a blush color scheme, as there are a myriad of hues of soft-toned roses. Your florist can direct you to the best varieties.

Red is Always Romantic Red roses say "I Love You" and are very appropriate for weddings at any time of the year. Especially in the winter, red looks wonderful with berries and pine greenery and black or red gowns on the attendants. Red is also found in tulips, peonies, gerbera daisies, ranunculus, carnations, lilies, and camellias.

Nothing But Pink

For a very romantic and feminine celebration, pink is beautiful. Choose one shade of pink or use many shades from brights to pales. Roses come in a wide range of pinks, or try ranunculas, sweet peas, camellias, hydrangeas, foxglove, snapdragons, dahlias, and bright gerbera daisies.

Purple, Lime Green,

White For a dramatic, lively look to your day, choose colors with real punch. Purple, lime green, and bright pinks look crisp and fresh! Hydrangea, roses, lilacs, hyacinth, iris, pansies, stock, delphinium, lisianthus, lavendar, and mums grow in shades of purple. Limey greens will add brightness.

By Coral Nafie, About.com

Partnerships

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Fonville Family Reunion

If you are part of the Fonville family and would like to attend
The 1st Annual P.A. Fonville and Hester Ann Family Reunion,
please contact AtUrBest Wedding And Event Planners @ 877-264-3579.

The Reunion will be Thursday, July 3 through Monday, July 4, 2008. The event will at hosted at The Blake Hotel, 555 S. McDowel Street, Charlotte, NC 28204.

Bridal Shower Tips

Bridal Shower Tips by: Yolanda Nash

Co-ed showers are finally taking a twist and growing every day more popular. Having a co-ed shower will make everyone attending feel more welcome and will also give them a chance to get to know one another before the big day.

Give your bridal party a day to remember you by. Take them to the beach or have a barbecue but just make sure your guests are entertained and enjoying them selves. If you are having a co-ed or more traditional bridal shower it will be so much more fun when you play games or make it theme night.

If you love the beach have a pool party, if you love barbecue then cookout or if you enjoy crafts then make a special project, but just make it fun and enjoyable for all your guests and make the memories last. Make sure they can dance. So I suggest either renting video lessons or hiring a personal dancing instructor. Pick some fun dancing and also some formal dancing lessons so you have dances for all of your music.

If your reception party has a country theme, then make sure you take country dancing lessons. When the spotlight is on you and your bridal party it will be so much more fun for everyone when you know what your doing. The bridal shower is the time when all of the bride's friends all get together and everyone meet one another.

All of the bride's friends should bring something that they remember her by. They can bring friendship bracelets, class rings and photos. This will really make the shower more enjoyable and gives everyone a chance to share there memories of each other.
Author: Yolanda Nash

How To Know Tip Etiquette

How to Know Tip Etiquette
By eHow Careers & Work Editor

You reach for the check after dinner and once again, you're stymied as to how much you are supposed to leave. Your hairdresser and the bellhop both gave you a slant-eyed look when they received their tip. There must be some sort of rule, you think. Here are some etiquette guidelines to help you feel confident tipping in any situation.

Step 1:
Leave approximately 15 percent of your meal cost when tipping a waitperson that provided you with good service. You can adjust this amount if you were very pleased or disappointed in the service.

Step 2:
Consider setting a minimum tip amount. If you order coffee and a slice of pie the tip won't amount to much if you only leave 15 percent, but the server came to your table a half a dozen times to fill your cup. A minimum tip of $2 or more will assure he is compensated for his service.

Step 3:
Give your hairdresser between 15 to 20 percent for her services. Some people don't know they are supposed to tip a stylist, but they depend upon their tips to make a living.

Step 4:
Slip a couple of dollars into your door attendant's hand if he hails a cab for you or retrieves your luggage. A dollar or two per bag is proper when the bellhop carries them to your room. The same amount goes for a valet who parks your car.

Step 5:
Tip food delivery persons, but not postal employees, when they bring packages. It's tough to keep it straight, but remember that employees of tax-funded services are legally not allowed to accept tips. However, etiquette allows you to give them a monetary gift at Christmas time if you feel they have served you well throughout the year.

Up Coming Events

AtUrBest Presents Up Coming Events


Black College Reunion 2008 - April 4-6, 2008 -- Daytona Beach, Florida

Myrtle Beach Bike Week --- May 9 -18, 2008 --- Everyone & All Motorcycles Welcome

The 2008 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference - MAy 14- 17, 200- Charlotte NC

Black Beach Week --- May 23 - May 26, 2008 --- The Atlantic Bike Beach Festival - Myrtle Beach, SC

The 9th Annual Urban Beach Week -- May 23- May 26, 2008 -- Miami Florida, South Beach

37th Annual National Assoc. Of Black Accountants - June 10-14, 2008 - Atlanta GA

Essence Music Festival - July 3-6, 2008 - New Orleans, Lousiana -

AtUrBest Wedding Expo 2008 - August 1- August 3, 2008 - Charlotte, NC

Hootie Awards - September 18-21, 2008 - Las Vegas, NV


As always if you need further information about upcoming events please contact AtUrBest Wedding And Event Planners - Email: wedsaturbest@yahoo.com or call 877-264-3579

Events

THE 2008 ESSENCE FESTIVAL

Where: New Orleans, LousianaWhen: July 4-6, 2008For 13 years, Th e Essence Music Festival has been voted as the largest African American Family Festival and Empowerment Conference in the world. Over 200,000 participants make the annual trek to New Orleans for 3 days full of fun, food, festivities, entertainment, music and more.


Who Is Performing At This Year's Essence?

Jill Scott, Chris Brown, Frankie Beverly And Maze are just a few....14 more artist to be announced

Women's History Month

In honor of Women's History Month -


The AtUrBest Team takes a look at the past generations of great wonderful Women- First we want to give homage to our mothers, aunts, grandmothers, great grandmothers, great aunts, our sisters, our best girl friends, female cousins, daughters and of course our sons.

I take a look at the Women that have come into my life as, women pastors, mentors, friends, and colleagues some have touched me in so many ways. I have learned and I am still learning from the Women who have taught me how to be a better person, who have taught me how to be a better business person, who have taught me to be a friend, to reach out and set my goals.


These women have taught me that it is okay to shed a tear, it is okay to say hey the better person got the job, it is ok to fight back when it is necessary to hear your voice in the crowd. From each and everyone that has cross my path I owe you so much.


So I stand and salute you Wonderful Women be proud that you have brought another Woman across the threshold of the circle of life.

The Perfect Way To Say I Love You

Guess what boys and girls its that special time of the year again.....

St. Valentines Day....

As the season of love i.e. valentine has arrived,

the lovebirds have started planning to convey

their feeling of love to each other.

Rose, the prominent symbol of love has to be used

effectively to express these tender feelings.

Love is a feeling that comes from the heart and changes

our lives forever...Love is special and love is precious.

It comes in our lives like a soft breeze and things change forever.

Romantic Valentines Ideas

Well if you want to make your valentine feel special then a

great idea for you is to place a small love note with three magical

words written on it 'I Love You' and place it besides her bed

and see the miraculous effects.

Take a day's leave from office and plan the day with your loved one.
Prepare some nice valentines cookie recipe in the shape of heart and

I'm sure your partner will love it.
Romantic long drive and a candle light dinner is a fabulous idea.
Do not forget to present her a bouquet of red roses because to express love what better way than flowers.

Instead of buying a card, this valentine's day do something different.
Prepare a nice colorful card and do not forget to write love quotes.
There are lot many things to do for Valentine Day like go to a disco and party.

This is the day when words are not enough.

Some action is also required to make the day different.

Well I hope you must have got an idea that I'm talking

about giving your spouse a nice tight hug.

Decorate the house for the special occasion.

Implement smart tricks for creating the mood for romance.

Dim lights, light music, romantic songs and most importantly

attire a nice costume specially meant for Valentine's Day.

Adorn yourself with jewelry and other fashion accessories.
Propose your partner and tell her/him how special and important

he/she is for you and that it is difficult to imagine your life without them.
Hold each other's hands and go for a short walk.

Appreciate each other and read out romantic poems for your lover.

Tips For Proposing

Asking for her hand in marriage is a perfect way to show respect and love.

Do it in private without her knowing before you propose.

If you aren't sure what type of ring she wants, or you are surprising her, propose with a loose diamond, so that she can pick out her own setting later. Keep in mind what you think her idea of romance is. Some women would be ecstatic to pick out their own ring setting, but others might find it disappointing.

Know the answer before asking the question!

Keep it an absolute secret. Asking for advice from her sister or friend is a good idea ONLY if you can ensure secrecy. Don't tell anyone your plans if you're not sure you can trust them to stay quiet.

Plan this event. She is going to remember it for the rest of her life, so put some effort into it. Above all else, be creative. Embellish the ideas below with your own personal touches. Celebrate afterwards. Let it be known that she just made you the happiest man on earth.

Proposal Ideas:

Have a custom fortune cookie made with your marriage proposal on the fortune.
Propose at a family function. Either surprise her and her family, or get her family involved by arranging a surprise engagement party or champagne toast.

Have the ring be the prize in a box of Cracker Jacks.

Have your proposal painted on a banner or a billboard.

Take her by it on your way to a romantic dinner.

Stop under the sign; get out of the car and onto one knee to present the ring.
For the word game lover, play one and spell out your proposal with the tiles or make a special word search puzzle for her to solve.

Put your proposal on the paper strip of a Hershey's kiss

Make a memory box filled with mementos from your life together thus far. At the bottom, have a poem or a note with your proposal on it

Have the ring box chocolate dipped and put it in a box of chocolates. (Use a small box of chocolates, so that you don't have to wait too long for the moment to happen!)

Take her on a romantic walk on the beach to a waterfall and spell out the words, "Will you marry me?" in the sand or with rocks by the water.

Get her portrait painted or drawn from a photograph with the ring on her finger.

Have the ring ready when she notices.
Add to your family by bringing home a brand new puppy with a ribbon collar.
Have the ring tied to the ribbon. When she discovers it, bend down one knee.

Freeze the ring in an ice cube and drop it in her glass, while you are at your favorite restaurant. When she realizes what is in her drink, get down on one knee and ask her to marry you.

Go to a local bakery
Instruct them to bake a cake with a marriage proposal on it and put it in the window. Take her on a romantic nighttime stroll right past the bakery, and point to the personalized cake in the window. Drop down on one knee, pull out the ring, and ask her to marry you. This way you can have your cake and eat it too, literally.

Surprise her by sending a bouquet of flowers to the office Tie the ring to the end of one of the stems. After the flowers are delivered, go to her office and propose.

Valentine's Day Checklist

1. Your SchedulesBefore you can decide on anything, you need to find out what both of your schedules are. Do one or both of you have to work? Find out what hours. Does your date have something else planned during any part of the day? Make sure to find out everything, then tell your date AS SOON AS POSSIBLE what time to reserve for your interlude.

2. Consider Your Date's InterestsIs your date a "flowers and romance, dance all night" type, or a "stay at home in front of the fire" type of person? This is important in determining what you are planning to do. If you're not sure, ask your date what they like.

3. Plan Your Date By now you should know what timeframe you have to work with and what your partner's interests are. With this information it should be much easier deciding what to do. While you're planning, make sure to check if reservations are needed, any tipping requirements, transportation you might need, any possible dress code, timeframe of any events, and if there are any restrictions on any mood enhancers you might want to bring, like candles. Don't forget to let your date know about any information they need to know, like dress codes, etc.!

4. Your Gift The gift is almost as, if not more, important than the actual date. It doesn't need to be expensive, but it does need to show that you've put a lot of time and care into selecting it. If you're deciding to give a traditional favorite, like flowers or chocolates, try and do something unique with them.

5. Confirm Everything!!!The night before, take some time and confirm any reservations or plans you have that involve a third party. This not only helps ease your nerves a bit, but also reminds the other person of their possible duty.

6. Relax And Enjoy!Pick up your date and enjoy each other's romantic company! Relax, because you've taken all the steps to plan the perfect Valentine's Day date!!

Things To Do With Your Partner

What is your favorite thing to do with your partner?
1. Cuddle
2. Talk
3. Sleeping next to each other.
4. Long WalksTop 3 Locations:BeachBy MoonlightBy Sunset
5. Kissing
6. Wrestling
7. Looking into each other's eyes.
8. Just be with them.
9. Make love.
10. Watch romantic movies.Either at home or at the movies.
11. Have a romantic dinner.
12. Laugh together
13. Relax
14. Lie in bed and talk.
15. Do something new.
16. Feed each other.
17. Watch T.V. and cuddle.
18. Spend time at the park.
19. Look at the stars.
20. Have an all day date.

Just A Hit And Run

The @UrBest team want to wish everyone a Happy New Year.... Our end of the year Holiday Party went off with a Hit..... As the evening started out we were on our way to set up for the party.

As we merging on to the expressway there was a vehicle trying to switch lanes and side swiped us knocking the mirror off of our rent a car; messed up the side of the white van they were driving and took off.

As we followed the vehicle because he would not stop we were in high persuit as if we were trying out for the nascar race trials (lol) needless to say we caught him at the light.

Block him in pulled up in front of his vehicle so he could not leave the scene . We were waiting for the police to come which took about 30 to 45 minutes. As we exchange information the police issued three violations to the driver of the van (which he did not have his credentials in order).

The @UrBest team made it to the event and did the job they were hired to the do... So if is an event that you want done....

Do not hesitate to call the @UrBest Wedding And Event Planners for your next event.

Last Minute Gift Ideas

Try our partnerships for gift ideas --

Smart Gift Ideas for Weddings, Fund Raisers, Annivesaries, Retirements, Graduations, Employee Incentives or Just Saying "Thank You" to Clients

Top Tips For New Year's Eve

Make your December 31 one to remember with our top tips...

Table decorations

For your table centre decorations try using large offcuts of autumn branches with leaves and trails of ivy -- you’ll find them all in the garden at this time of year. Add some rich red apples and wire them on with a few candles. Stick to rich red and gold colours, and avoid pine at all costs -- Christmas is over and gone!

Fun and games with candles

The old saying ‘you could hear a pin drop’ refers to the old days when hostesses fixed a pin into a candle. It was timed to burn down and for the pin to drop out at midnight onto a dish. If there are only a few of you, try this by making a candle each and having a prize for the winner whose pin drops out at the closest to midnight.

Vodka

Buy some flavoured vodkas, chill them down and serve vodka shots either in shot glasses or through a vodka luge. Make sure you serve the vodka after dinner or your guests may feel the effects a bit too early!

Fireworks

Stage a home firework display, complete with sparklers, space blankets (from the camping shop to keep you warm -- only a few pounds each) and gluhwein, plus toffee apples for the younger ones!

Think ahead

Food for the later part of the night -- or early morning -- is always very welcome. You could serve some miniature hamburgers, bite-sized pizzas and sausages in buns at around 2am. Accompany these with tin mugs filled with hot chocolate to keep your guests going!

Dance the night away

Stick to music that your guests recognise. This is not the time to try to wow partygoers with your eclectic tastes or flaunt your knowledge of obscure musical trends. Whether it’s a band or a disco or just a home stereo, you want tunes that everyone can get up and get down to.

Hogmanay spirit

Treat your guests to a selection of malt whisky bottles. Buy a few different makes and set them up on a small bar for an impromptu tasting session. Do this later on in the evening -- it always attracts a big audience, especially among the male members of the party for some reason...

Sweetie time

Buy some glass trumpet vases and fill each one to the brim with different chocolate and sweets -- Smarties, Maltesers, marshmallows, it’s up to you. This will cause a stampede with the coffee.

Head gear

Buy some crazy head-dresses and dish them out at midnight. Your local party store will have a fun selection, probably including Red Indian head-dresses, sailor’s caps, French army hats, devil’s horns, crowns and so on. Hand them out and watch the part start swinging -- just make sure you have your camera ready!

The camera never lies...

Issue disposable cameras so your guests can capture their favourite moments of the night. You can buy disposable cameras here on the confetti website.


*(when comes to offering alcohol to your guest please be mindful and sensible)*

"Information provided by Confetti"