Nov

25

How to Create Your Own Wedding Website

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Whether you’re looking to share your personal wedding pics and videos with family and friends that couldn’t attend the event, you want to blog about everything wedding related, or you’re looking to sell products for those planning their own nuptials, you’re going to need a wedding website to reach your goal. But if you’re not exactly technically-minded, you might end up throwing in the towel before you even have a chance to start. However, you should know that setting up a website is easier than ever these days thanks to online tutorials and hosting services that make it as easy and pointing and clicking. So here are a few helpful hints to get you started.

1. Choose a goal. First and foremost, you need to have a basic goal in mind. What are you trying to do with your website? Is it targeted at getting information to friends and family or would you like to reach a larger audience? Do your interests lie in sharing your personal experience or are you looking to help those who are planning their own weddings? Are you hoping to make money, or is the enterprise just for fun? Answering these questions before you start is essential to ensuring that you find the services you need to succeed.

2. Find help. If you’re totally new to the game you’re going to need some outside help to get started, and there are many resources available to you on the worldwide web, including how-to lists, tutorials, and even forums and chat rooms with users that can offer you step-by-step advice on how to proceed. You can check out one or all of these options, depending on your level of familiarity with terminology and web technology in general. But if you have specific questions, forums aimed at website development can likely put you in contact with actual people that can answer them.

3. Choose a web host. This can be a difficult prospect because there are so many options available. But there are a couple of things to consider when choosing a host for your site. Cost is an obvious consideration, and there are plenty of free sites out there that will work great for your average personal site or blog. But if you’re looking to monetize your online operation, you’ll likely need to shell out some money for a reputable web host (one that offers flexible storage options and rarely suffers loss of service, for example). From there you need to consider what kinds of choices they offer in the way of setting things up for you. Some come with templates and tutorials while others expect you to do it all on your own. Doing your homework here could be really helpful in the long run.

4. Pick a name. Of course you’ll have a name in mind, but you need to browse domain names for sale to find a match, and you might not get your first choice. Here, too, you have some options, though. If you’re starting a business then you’ll likely want a dot com, but these can be the most difficult to obtain. However, a personal site that is not aimed at earning could be a dot net or other suffix, which will greatly expand your name options.

5. Build your site. Now it’s time to add the content that will make your site unique, and the easiest way is by using a program (rather than, say, learning HTML or Java on your own). WordPress is a good option for those looking to start a blog, and for a more complex website, consider the old standard, Dreamweaver.

Nov

25

The Best Wedding Gifts for the Bride and Groom

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Whether you are super besties with the bride or the groom or just barely acquainted, you will still want to make sure that your wedding gift is both appropriate and unique. Consider these suggestions for gift options to make their wedding reception magical.

A picture frame. It’s a classic. You know that they’re going to take a million photos and they will need somewhere to put the most special. Plus, if someone else has the same idea, you can safely bet that the happy couple will have a picture just waiting for yours too. To make yours extra unique, you may want to consider having it engraved with the names of the newlyweds with a little message as well.

Wine stoppers. Once the cork has been removed from a bottle of wine it tends to swell, which makes the bottle harder to re-cork. From crystal to stainless steel, these are easily storable souvenirs that many couples will be able to use in the years to come. Pick out a set with their initials, and when they’re celebrating future anniversaries, they’ll think of you!

Or just plain wine. Add to their collection with a variety of vintages. You can also plan ahead by purchasing a bottle that will be best imbibed on their tenth anniversary (or their twentieth … or their fiftieth!). Include some personalized wine glasses.

Bedding. The more luxurious sheets, pillows, and pillowcases you provide, the more they’ll be reminded of the hotel where they spent their honeymoon. Aim for a high thread count.

Luggage. They will probably need some nice new luggage, especially if their honeymoon is somewhere far off in the distance. Even matching totes or two leather duffle bags will give them something fancy and new to bring along, or as storage for carry-on items on the plane.

Food. Send them on their honeymoon with something to munch on, such as a gift basket of cookies or a box of chocolates. Hand-made offers a personal touch they’ll remember.

Scrapbook. The happy couple would love a memento of the entire process, but after the ceremony is over and the honeymoon is done, someone has to send out thank you letters. You can help by collecting any paraphernalia – such as examples of invitations, save-the-date cards, or even some photos from your own collection that document the evolution of the bride and groom’s relationship – and beginning a scrapbook yourself. Make sure to leave a few extra pages so they can continue to work on it or add their own materials.

Candleholders. Personalize them so they can bring them out whenever they’re having a romantic dinner at home … just the two of them. Include candles to get them started.

Matching watches. Remind them that their love is timeless. Go sleek and stylish. You might also consider sweetening the deal by including as part of the package future care and problem-solving. Something like a gift certificate to help with future maintenance, such as Rolex watch repair … just in case.

Nov

25

Unique Honeymoon Destinations that Won’t Break the Bank

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Many couples these days are opting to skip the honeymoon simply because of the uncertain economic times (or the fact that they’d rather save for a down payment on a home). But if you can set aside a modest budget to devote to your honeymoon, you can have a wonderful and memorable vacation with your spouse (and you’re going to need it after the stress of the wedding). You don’t need to go to Hawaii or Paris in order to commemorate your first days of wedded bliss. And here are a few unique destinations that will cost you less and provide wonderful memories to last a lifetime.

1. Los Olivos, California. A lot of couples would love to take in the scenic vistas of Napa Valley, stay at spa resorts, and sample some fine cuisine and vino in northern California’s wine country. But unless you want to spend a lot of money for snobby viticulturists to tell you that you don’t know the first thing about wine, opt for the southerly counterpart: Los Olivos. Located just north of Santa Barbara, the “other” wine country in SoCal can offer you tasting rooms galore. Best of all, they’re manned by experts who are helpful, courteous, and unfailingly pleasant. You can find lodgings and aebleskiver (Danish pancakes) in nearby Solvang and the beach is just a few minutes away.

2. Fiji. If you’re looking for an island paradise that is secluded and romantic, forget about spending $500 a day (on hotels alone) in Hawaii and head to Fiji instead. By booking a package (through Pleasant Holidays, for example) you could get five nights at a spa resort with roundtrip airfare for as little as $1,000-1,400 per person. That’s what you’d pay for lodgings in Hawaii and you’ll get all the white sand and clear surf you can handle in Fiji. Plus, you’ll pay a lot less for food and other amenities.

3. The Philippines. With 7,000 islands to choose from in this chain, you’ll never get bored. And many offer diverse draws, from white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to rainforests to active (and inactive) volcanos. There are plenty of secluded resorts to tempt young couples in love, the people are warm and welcoming, and the foodie culture means you’ll find loads of fantastic dining. Plus, you can find 9-day, all-inclusive, island-hopping packages for less than $2,000 (U.S.) per person.

4. Costa Rica. This gorgeous Central American country is only just beginning to be seen as a tourist destination. The result is that prices are low, the natural beauty is unspoiled, and there are very few other tourists to contend with, all of which make it an ideal destination for your honeymoon. There are so many beautiful places to stay, but consider an ocean-view bungalow at the Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, which can be yours for four nights for less than $3,000 per couple (not including airfare). Or save some dough by foregoing the nature reserve and opting for more traditional accommodations.

5. The south of France. When it comes to luxury travel, you can find it in spades in this country associated with romance. Unfortunately, you’ll also discover the attendant cost. Luckily, there are ways to save. The southern region of France may be known for the fabulous French Riviera, but traveling inland will net you rolling hills, abundant vineyards, and major savings on lodgings (rent an apartment, look into time shares, or simply stay at a quaint B&B). Then take the train to Paris for a day or two. It’s a great way to get your honeymoon in France without paying an arm and a leg. Just keep an eye on airfare; it tends to drop in the fall.

Nov

25

Pearls or Diamonds for Your Wedding Day?

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Once you’ve got the major decisions made; you’ve chosen a dress, put a down payment on the venue, and found yourself an officiant; it’s time to turn your attention to the finer points of wedding planning. You’ll need to peruse photographers, select floral arrangements, and choose place settings (not to mention food and wine). And of course you’ll want to consider the accessories that will highlight and enhance your ensemble so that you look your absolute best when you walk down the aisle. Although you have many choices when it comes to selecting your jewelry, two types of adornment are traditional: diamonds and pearls. But how do you decide which is right for you?

In truth, there are just a couple of things you’ll want to take into account before making your decision between the two. You need to consider your dress, your own personal aesthetic, and the tone of the wedding. Let’s start with the dress. If you have chosen a dress that is modern, like a strapless corset gown, then you may want to stick to the modern feel by wearing diamonds. Ditto on dresses that are exceedingly understated. Diamonds provide a decidedly younger look and a little flash can enliven a dress that is simple and sophisticated. Pearls, on the other hand, will denote a certain amount of maturity while also fading into the background rather than taking center stage. So they work best with dresses that are more modest (think Grace Kelly’s gorgeous lace concoction) or frocks that are already adorned with embellishments.

Now you’ll want to consider your own personal style and preference. Are you outgoing and spontaneous or shy and retiring? Do you revel in nabbing the spotlight or would you rather operate behind the scenes? While it’s true that every bride becomes the center of attention on her special day whether she wants to or not, you can maximize the impact by throwing some bling into the works or tone down the flash by opting for much more conservative pearls. Every detail counts, so think hard about the amount of attention you want to draw (and what kind of attention you’ll incite with your ensemble).

Finally, you should choose pieces that are in keeping with the tone of your wedding. If it’s a lavish affair set to rival the recent royal wedding, then perhaps diamonds are in order. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a quiet ceremony and reception restricted to only close friends and family and you can’t stand the thought of a major production, perhaps pearls are better suited to the style of your event.

Of course, you could mix it up by selecting pieces that feature both diamonds and pearls. There are no laws against pairing the two and you may be able to meet all of your stylistic goals by choosing a few pieces that put the best of both worlds together. Heck, if you’re daring you could even go all out and include colored gemstones (although this is a little risky since color trends come and go). As long as you take the time to consider the implications of your choices where diamonds and pearls are concerned you’re sure to come up with a look that is 100% right for your special day.

Sarah Danielson is a contributing writer for www.icingonthering.com located in the downtown Los Angeles jewelry district, where you can find a variety of loose diamonds and engagement rings.

Nov

14

Fashion Dos and Don’ts for the Big Day

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Every bride is cognizant of the fact that her wedding pictures are going to live in perpetuity, eternally displaying her fashion sense (or lack thereof). This is why choosing the right dress and accessories tend to be the most important aspect of wedding planning for most women. Of course, there is also the element of emotion to consider, and what bride doesn’t want to feel confident and gorgeous on what could be the biggest day of her life, when all eyes are on her? And while there are certainly plenty of magazines and websites packed with pictures of beautifully appointed brides, a good portion of women don’t look like the size-2 models that are professionally coiffed, shellacked, and lit to perfection. So here are just a few fashion tips for the real women out there that want to capture a look of timeless beauty on their big day.

1. The dress. There are only two things to consider when choosing a dress: is it flattering, and does it make you feel beautiful. Every woman has a slightly different shape and problem areas to contend with, but there is a dress to fit every woman. However, you do need to be a little bit realistic about shopping for your shape. You may have a picture from a magazine or one in your head, but if the dress isn’t figure-flattering, it’s not going to make you look or feel good.

2. Accessories. Your dress may determine the type of accessories you choose, including shoes, a veil, gloves, a handbag, and so on. And the best rule of thumb here is to keep the focus on the main event. If you allow the accessories to overpower the dress, you’ll end up looking like a muddled, white mess. So don’t do anything too fancy or over the top with the extras. Simple and understated is the way to go.

3. Jewelry. This is one type of accessory where you can add a little more visual interest to your ensemble and really highlight the fabulous features of your dress. Suppose you have a sweetheart neckline; a long pendant is the perfect accent. And if you have a higher neckline you can skip the neckwear and opt for drop earrings. A sleeveless dress may call for a bracelet or cuff of some sort. The idea is to choose jewelry that enhances the outfit, and you can even add some color as long as it’s suitable.

4. Hair. Funny enough, this will probably be the most personal aspect of your entire look. But even if you generally like your hair a little wild or punky, consider going with a classic and sophisticated look for your wedding day. Years down the road you’ll be happy you didn’t go for a trendy style that faded out like the fad it was.

5. Makeup. For starters, you should think about contact lenses if you normally wear glasses. Specs will hide both your eyes and the makeup you put on, but contact lenses will let everyone see your beautiful face (and still let you see theirs). From there you should keep your makeup as natural as possible while still highlighting your best features. It’s usually best to play up your eyes, so make them pop by opting for neutral tones with a touch of color that is opposite from your eyes. Girls with baby blues should go for taupes or grays while hazel or green eyes look best with hints of gold or lavender. And the brown-eyed girls should opt for deeper plum tones. As for cheeks and lips, a hint of color that is just slightly rosier than your natural shade is the way to go. You don’t want to look like a clown, and makeup that enhances your looks rather than changing them will still be appealing years from now, when you’re showing the photos to your grandkids.

Nov

3

Your Over-the-Top Wedding (on a Budget)

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Every bride wants her big day to be the best of her life (and if her groom is understanding he will try to accommodate). But most couples are under the constraints of a set budget, which means that planning a dream wedding might be out of the question. However, with a little planning, a few substitutions, and a lot of creativity, every couple can have the beautiful and memorable wedding day they desire (without dipping into the down payment for their home in the process). Here are just a few ways of making the magic for less.

1. Venue. It won’t be much of a party if you have no place to hold it, which is why most couples start by booking a venue. But if you’re on a tight budget you may be woefully underwhelmed by the spaces that are in your price range. Keep in mind, though, that it’s not so much the place you choose as what you do with it that makes it special. So think about renting a public space (like a park, for example) or asking a friend with a big house or yard to host the event. Then spend the money you save on over-the-top decorations.

2. Décor. All the little pieces that make up your décor are going to add up to a major expense, with furniture, place settings, and centerpieces topping the list of must-haves. But there are also many ways to save. If you don’t want the traditional table-and-chair arrangement, secure couches and side tables from a furniture rental place for more intimate seating. Then dot the tables with candles for mood lighting. You could also skip expensive floral arrangements and go modern (and inexpensive) with paper flowers, which you can create on your own with recycled paper (printed pages in black and white are super chic), pipe cleaners or bare wires, and patterns that can be found online.

3. The dress. The dress is a matter of great importance for most brides, but it can also become a major expense if you’re not careful or open to alternatives. If you’re like most women, you’re looking for the perfect dress, even if it’s out of your price range. But don’t fret: you can still have it (albeit without the label). Simply take a picture of the dress you want to a seamstress and have her recreate it for you at a fraction of the cost.

4. Eats. Catering can definitely be costly, but you can save by eschewing the standard multi-course meal (although you should note on the invites if you’re not serving dinner). You could host an afternoon tea, set up shabu-shabu stations, or even provide a dessert bar for something different and special. As for drinks, provide the basics (beer, wine, and champagne) and skip the open bar. And remember that most people buy their wine at the grocery store; it doesn’t pay to splurge when no one can tell the difference.

5. Entertainment. Over-the-top event entertainment calls for something special, but that doesn’t mean you have to hire a troupe of acrobats or belly dancers for the event. If you’re going to have a wait-staff anyway, why not opt for singing and dancing waiters (they’re all aspiring actors anyway, right?). Or hire a professional dessert chef to create your cake while guests watch and then get a DJ to pump up the jams on the dance floor. You don’t have to spend major money to go over the top with your wedding entertainment, and if you know performers you may even be able to finagle a freebie as a wedding gift.

Nov

2

Animal Lover? How to Include Pets in Your Wedding

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Studies have shown that pet owners enjoy health benefits such as increased stress reduction, socialization, and reduction in loneliness and depression. If you’re an animal lover, then it’s no wonder that you will want to include your beloved pet on your special day. When you’re ready to walk down the aisle, here are a few tips to keep in mind if you want to include your pet in your wedding:

How exactly do you want your pet to function during your wedding? Do you want your cat to lie at your feet, purring, with the rings attached to her collar? Would you like a mourning dove to fly from your shoulder to the shoulder of your intended? Or would you prefer your puppy to lead the way, trotting down the aisle and greeting attendants as he goes? Before the ceremony gets underway, consider exactly what purpose your pet will serve. This may mean extensive training, particularly for younger or unruly pets. You may even be able to work with budgerigars such as a Myna bird to tell your spouse, “I love you!” Or, even more simply, your best friend may be able to stand at your side with both your hands resting on her head as you both say, “I do.”

The wedding site itself will determine the role your pet will play. Some hotels may not allow animals on the premises, or you may have to pay extra for the privilege. Open-air ceremonies might be dangerous, especially for birds. If your pet isn’t able to attend the ceremony, you may be able to incorporate them into the reception. Consider dressing up your dog with a little bow tie and then, accompanied by a walker, he can lead your guests to the reception area.

Consider the size of the pet when planning. Small pets, such as mice, rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs, can be carried down the aisle by a flower girl or ring bearer. If you plan to use a large pet, horses might be utilized to draw a carriage that carries the newly married couple away to their honeymoon or to the reception. If you are a cat owner, be aware that they may not be ideal for a socialized situation. If they are more dog-like, however, and not frightened or angered by the large crowds usually demanded by a wedding party, you may be able to work them in by using a leash or in a pet stroller.

Ultimately, you must be flexible when it comes to incorporating your pet into the ceremony. Problems may arise, and you will want to consider possible alternatives in case your pet doesn’t work out at the last moment. Your guests may be frightened of your pet or allergic, and you must consider their well-being. Will a photo or video of the pet suffice? Unruly pets require additional strategies. A dog bark collar may be necessary to prevent inconvenient barking at inopportune moments, especially once the ceremony is underway … no going back now!

Nov

1

Travel To-Dos before the Big Day

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Whether you’re taking a limo to the church and then staying local for the night, you’re getting a lift to the airport to hop a flight for your honeymoon, or you’re driving off into the sunset in a rental, there are a few arrangements that need to be made prior to your wedding day to ensure that you have the transportation you need at the right price. So here are just a few things you may want to add to your to-do list when it comes to planning for travel on the big day.

1. Book early. This is absolutely essential, especially if your wedding date falls during the peak seasons (summer, the holidays, etc.). As soon as you’ve booked the venues for the ceremony and reception, go ahead and find the car service that suits you. Whether you’re looking for a limo or town car or you’ve decided to seek something extra special like a classic convertible, you’ll likely be competing with a lot of other couples, so don’t wait until the last minute. If you just need a rental car for a quick getaway after the reception, you can probably hold off for a little while.

2. Read the contract. If you decide to go for the traditional limo, you’re going to need to read the fine print and ask plenty of questions so that you aren’t surprised by the company’s policies later on. You should find out up front if there is a minimum service requirement (some companies won’t rent you a car and driver unless you sign up for a minimum of 3-4 hours, for example). And don’t forget to ask about extra charges should you go over your allotted time for the day.

3. Plan for disaster. Although it is the driver’s job to know how to get you where you’re going and make sure you arrive on time, you may want to prepare for the worst. Road closures and accidents could leave you trapped in gridlock while all of your guests (and your fiancé) are waiting at the church (or whatever venue you choose for the ceremony). So map out alternate routes, plan to arrive at the church way ahead of time, check traffic reports, and call ahead to make sure your driver knows where to pick you up and that he’s scheduled to arrive on time.

4. Pre-pack for takeoff. At the end of a long and emotional day you’ll be in no mood to lug your luggage to the car. So get it safely stowed in whatever transportation you’ll take the airport or hotel when you arrive at the venue (while you still have some energy). And if you’re planning to head out for your honeymoon on the night of your wedding, make sure to pack a few snacks (your nerves might keep you from eating all day and you’ll probably be famished by the time you’re relaxing on the plane).

5. Designate drivers. Unless you decide that there will be no alcohol at your wedding, there are likely to be guests imbibing (some to an alarming degree). If you don’t want to get a call the next day about an accident or arrest, perhaps you should ask a few guests to be designated drivers – it’s either that or arrange for limo service or taxis for guests. Of course, if you’re jetting off on your honeymoon you may also want to ask friends or family to ferry some of your gifts back to your house so they’ll be waiting, intact, when you get back.