Before we got married, we lived together for 2 years. We had been a couple for 3 years prior to that and although my husband was the one who ultimately proposed, he didn’t see what the big deal was about being married. In his eyes, if we were committed to one another, we didn’t need a marriage license to prove that. In my opinion, that simple piece of paper was a huge deal and I was starting to really want to have one of those in my possession. It wasn’t that I didn’t trust him or I thought he had plans to leave, but I wanted to know that we had taken that extra step.

Once you’re married, it is not as easy to just split up. Sure, divorce makes it pretty easy these days and they can get quite nasty, but when you aren’t married, you can just announce your “break up” and walk away. At least when you’re married, you should have a stronger sense of commitment and work harder to maintain it. At least, that’s the ideal thing to do. To many people nowadays, that marriage license doesn’t mean anything to them. I find that very sad and heartbreaking. I’m not getting married to get divorced. If I had any doubts of my chosen partner, a marriage license would not even exist. I wouldn’t take that huge step if I didn’t want to work to maintain its meaning.

We ended up eloping to Jamaica simply because the wedding plans were starting to become more of a nuisance than a joy and the costs were starting to scare us entirely too much. We married on the beach in Jamaica and came home with a marriage license that had cost us quite a bit less than it would have in our hometown. Do I suggest eloping? Of course not. I’m simply saying that eloping saved us quite a bit of grief and money and we still ended up having that marriage license in our hands. I’m not one of those people who hang their marriage licenses on the wall for all to see, it’s hidden away in our safe so as to not get damaged or lost. But, I know exactly where it is, and what it means.

Wedding Resource:

Technorati Tags: Marriage License, marriage, wedding planning, eloping, elope

The most common type of wedding guest books can come in an array of colors, but the most common color is white. These are displayed with a pen, and guests sign their names, and sometimes add their addresses. These can be personalized with the name of the bride and groom on the front, along with the date and place of the ceremony. 

The second kind of wedding guest books aren’t really books at all, but they serve the very same purpose. They are a reminder of everyone who shared your special day with you. This kind, however, can be more personal. A friend of mine had this at her wedding, but she didn’t know about it until the reception. Her maid of honor choose a large scrapbook, and placed pictures of the bride and groom from various times in their relationship on the front and on some of the pages. Guests could then sign the book, and leave a message. She had great fun reading what each guest had to say, and it was a great reminder of everyone who came, many of whom she doesn’t get to see very often.

This can also be accomplished with a large poster board and a photo of the couple. Space is limited, but guests can write a message on the poster board, or simply sign their names. You won’t find this in many places that sell wedding guest books, but a few companies have started offering pre-made versions for couples to use at their reception. If you like the idea of convenience you can buy one of these, or to save money, it might be fun to make your own.

As with most things, wedding guest books can be found in many places. If you can’t find what you are looking for locally, go ahead and search online. You may be surprised at the variety available, and some of the special touches that can be added. While you are shopping, don’t forget to get a quality pen to go with your book.

More Wedding Resources:

Technorati Tags: Wedding Guest Books, Wedding Guest Book, Guest Book, wedding, reception, ceremony

I hit the mall in search of something unique. Other than the usual picture frames and candles, I came up with nothing. I mean, what do you get as a 50th anniversary gift for a couple who practically has everything? I didn’t want to buy them a gift that you can buy for anyone at anytime. I wanted something meaningful and special. That was easier said than done.

Finally, after some advice from co-workers, I came across a website that just thrilled me. The site www.seniorstore.com had a huge selection of ideas that cater to 50th anniversary gifts or any occasion presents for seniors. There were some really unique presents that I put some serious thought into. There were beautiful poems, books from the year of their marriage, photo albums, and even a gift basket with a collection of items from the year of their marriage. To me, a personalized basket was such a wonderful idea. It had some wonderful memorabilia in it and for only $100, it was the perfect 50th anniversary gift! I was very proud for having found it.

The party was very emotional and tons of fun. They got some wonderful gifts, but I was absolutely thrilled when their eyes lit up upon opening my gift basket. I knew that that the gifts inside the basket would bring help them bring back some past memories and possibly create some new ones as well. My best friend told me that she’d had a really hard time trying to come up with a special 50th anniversary gift for them, and was envious of the present I’d purchased. I told her about having found the site and some of the other ideas that I’d gotten from looking over their offerings. All you need is some creativity and not only can you find the perfect 50th anniversary gift, but you can create some presents that will be appreciated for any occasion. My parents have a few more years before their milestone, and I bet I know where I’ll be purchasing their 50th anniversary gift as well.

Other Good Resources:

Technorati Tags: 50th Anniversary Gift, Anniversary Gift, wedding anniversary, wonderful gifts, perfect, anniversary present, 50th anniversary present

Many bridal stores offer plus size mother of the bride dresses but the selection is usually quite limited. You may find that you have a handful of gowns from which to choose and none of them are visually appealing. Many of them can be quite uncomfortable and some plus size mother of the bride dresses actually make you look heavier than you actually are.

There is little cause to fret. There are some alternatives to the traditional bridal shop for your needs. One of the hottest places to look for plus size mother of the bride dresses is Anna Brooks. This online store offers the largest selection of large size gowns in an array of colors and styles. You don’t have to wear a tent at your daughter’s wedding to feel comfortable.

Anna Brooks recognizes that comfort does not have to mean that you have to wear something frumpy or unflattering. The site offers a handy size chart that helps you determine how to fit yourself. The various styles that the Anna Brooks site offers are suited for different body types and the models they use for their beautiful gowns are larger women who provide a realistic representation of what the plus size mother of the bride dresses will actually look like.

Larger women tend to choose black or well, black as the color for their formal wear. However, you really don’t need to choose this slimming color for your plus size mother of the bride dresses. Color is one of the most attractive elements in the gowns offered. My mother chose a striking red number that really helped her make an entrance while making her look sharp and sleek.

What I really loved about the plus size mother of the bride dresses offered by Anna Brooks was the tailored edges, quality construction and excellent materials. My mother’s red gown appeared to be a two-piece outfit but it was one convenient piece that provided comfort as well as extra coverage. Plus size mother of the bride dresses don’t have to be frumpy. Visit Anna Brooks to find out for your self.

More Plus Size Mother Resource:

Technorati Tags: Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses, Bride Dresses, Mother of the Bride, big size, bigger size, large, size, bridal stores, traditional bridal shop, large size gowns

One of the centerpieces for any wedding is the wedding bouquet.  Wedding bouquets can range from the simplicity of a single red rose to the extravagance of nosegays bespeckled with jewels or pearls costing thousands of dollars.  Next to the dress, the bridal bouquet is perhaps the most visible accessory to the bride, and therefore one of the most visible accessories to the entire wedding.  Fall wedding bouquets usually vary considerably from their spring and summer counterparts, both in the types of flowers used and the colors combined in the bouquets. 

Most contemporary weddings incorporate some sort of color scheme, and fall weddings are no exceptions.  Many fall weddings incorporate at least some hints of the gorgeous fall colors, often working in some shades of orange, yellow, or red into the flowers and decorations, since soft pastels have a hard time competing against the bold foliage.  Fall wedding bouquets usually incorporate at least a few of these colors as well, placing the fall color explosions into the hands of the bride.

Some flowers particularly fitted to fall wedding bouquets are white, yellow, and orange roses and calla lilies.  Usually it’s advisable when designing your fall wedding bouquet to avoid using too many fall colors, since you probably don’t want your bouquet to exactly mirror the trees outside.  A hint is all it takes, usually in a shade of red, orange, or yellow.  White flowers provide a great backdrop for this splash of color, and allow your bouquet and your wedding to seamlessly blend contemporary color with traditional elegance. 

Once you have the bridal bouquet decided on, it’s time to move onto the flowers for the rest of the ceremony and reception.  Though it’s customary for the bridesmaids to carry flowers similar to the bride, don’t feel so constrained as to make all of the flowers in the wedding to mirror the bridal bouquet.  Though the rest of the flowers should coordinate with the bridal bouquet, feel free to have fun with your floral arrangements and combine coordinating colors and types of flowers to create a custom feel to the flowers of your wedding.

More Wedding Resources:

Technorati Tags: Fall Wedding Bouquets, Wedding Bouquets, planning Wedding Bouquets, planning fall Wedding Bouquets, wedding bouquet, wedding bouquets flower, wedding reception, ceremony, venues, caterers

One of the biggest complaints about bridesmaid dresses is that they can normally only be worn once, and when they cost over two hundred dollars or more, that’s huge hit to the savings or checking account.  What some fail to realize is that there are ways to get cheap bridesmaid dresses that will not look cheap, and can be used again and again. Many brides are so busy they chose a style and color, and leave the arrangements up to their bridesmaids.  A smart bridesmaid should ask the bride to allow them to search for the dresses, and give the bride the final choice.

Cheap bridesmaid dresses are everywhere; it just takes some time to search for them.  Quite often the bride sees something on the rack and falls in love with it, and this can be a huge mistake.  Quite often these dresses are full price, and that price can be painful.

Ask to see the discount selection.  Most bridal stores have these, though they are no advertised very often.  These dresses are normally one or two seasons old, but still new and beautiful.  If you aren’t concerned with keeping up-to-date with the latest wedding fashions, this is a great way to find stunning and cheap bridesmaids dresses.

Many also fail to take the time to look online.  While the selection may be limited, it’s possible to find fashionable, yet cheap bridesmaid dresses.  Sometimes it is just a matter of taking a few hours to sit down and do a thorough search.

Don’t rely on the bridal industry in your search for cheap bridesmaid dresses.  Just because something isn’t designed to be a bridesmaids dress, don’t mean it won’t work, and work well!  Many major department stores have beautiful dresses that are marked down at the end of the season.  You can often find these in various sizes and at a much lower price, and best of all, they can be worn again.

One last option is one that will take some time, so it won’t do for a wedding that is coming up quickly.  Go to your local fabric store and search through the patterns they have available.  You may find the perfect style and look for the wedding.  If you know someone who can sew well, the dresses may cost no more than the price of the pattern and the price of the fabric.

These are a just a few options that can help you in your search for cheap bridesmaid dresses.  Remember, just because the price is cheap, it doesn’t mean the dress will look cheap.  Allow your bridesmaids to buy more inexpensive dresses and they will a love you for it.  It may even allow them to spend a little more on your wedding gift.

Learn more about Bridemaids:

Technorati Tags: Cheap Bridesmaid Dresses, Bridesmaid Dresses, Bridesmaid Dress, Cheap Bridesmaid Dress, discount, discount Bridesmaid Dresses, bridal industry

Some people like to be traditional and follow the set rules for anniversary presents, from paper for the first anniversary to diamonds for the sixtieth. It’s a long time to wait for diamonds. It would be an achievement to follow the anniversary presents list every single year. You may want to use your own imagination and knowledge of your partner, perhaps honoring the crystal, silver, pearl, ruby, gold, and diamonds for the landmark years.

The anniversary doesn’t have to be celebrated by anything tangible. Anniversary presents could include a special outing or experience. Perhaps you could organize a trip in a hot air balloon or a hang gliding lesson. You could put together your own romantic day, with a champagne picnic in a row boat on the river. That will probably be treasured more than expensive earrings or cuff links.

If you don’t want to organize something yourself, you can buy anniversary presents in the form of experience days, where the whole day is set up and you just enjoy. There’s everything from swimming with sharks (divorce is less dangerous), to a day in a health spa. If it’s difficult to decide on something you both like, you could take it in turns to choose.

There are some presents that can’t be gift wrapped but make a wonderful statement. Anniversary presents just need a bit of lateral thinking. A tree can be planted in your partner’s name, maybe in a place that means a lot to both of you. You could go beyond earth and name a star for your beloved. That star will carry that name forever and there will be a certificate of registration, so no one can take the name away. When you promised them the moon and the stars, you sort of did it! While you’re at it, you could have a favorite song played on the radio.

If you do want something that your partner can open and you can see the delight in their eyes when they unwrap their anniversary presents,  you could buy a piece of original art. Make sure it’s to their taste and not just yours. A painting, a sculpture, or an antique that your partner has mentioned or hinted at! Why not compose your own poem. Romantic anniversary presents don’t come more personal than that. If your talents don’t lie in that direction, buy a book of love poems to be on the safe side. You can always rely on Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

More Gift Resource:

Technorati Tags: Wedding Anniversary Presents, Anniversary Presents, Wedding Anniversary, Wedding Anniversary gifts, Anniversary gifts, presents

If you are going to be the hostess, you get to have fun first by checking out all the great party supplies available online. You can get help planning your party by checking out various websites like www.bachelorettesuperstore.com or www.bachelorette.com for all your party needs. Lots of different naughty themes to choose from, which are available separately or in party packs containing invitations, envelopes, paper plates, and napkins. These are all essential bachelorette party supplies and the naughtier the better. Don’t forget the naughty games like the classic ‘pin the tail on the fireman’, or party favors like ‘Dicklets’ or other penis shaped items. If you are attending the shower, you can shop online for great bachelorette gifts like blow up dolls, novelty items, honeymooner survival kits, fundies, hand cuffs, sex toys, and just about anything else you can think of. Just make sure your gift is all in fun and good natured; it doesn’t have to be in good taste, just sexy and humorous.

Since alcohol is usually associated with bachelorette parties, a bar or lounge is not a bad place to have the party. If there is a private party room available, you have a variety of options. The most popular of course is to invite a male stripper to approach and seduce the unsuspecting bachelorette and embarrass her to death in front of her friends and family (who may be embarrassed too!). The bachelorette must endure this before she can proceed with opening the bachelorette gifts. There is an unwritten rule about bachelorette parties having to be naughty enough to keep the bachelorette and all the guests laughing the rest of  the night with all those nasty dirty fun little bachelorette gifts! 

Do not hold anything back. Have fund, be outrageous and go crazy! Bachelorette party is the time to get really wild.

More Wild Resources for Your Bachelorette Gifts:

Technorati Tags: Bachelorette Gifts, Bachelorette, bachelorette party, party supplies

Part of the difficulty in organizing a special event is deciding on a time and a place for the occasion. The save the date announcements can be prepared weeks or even months in advance. This will help you solidify your time and place and this will help your guests organize their time around your party.

Some guests really appreciate having a lot of notice in advance before attending a party or special event. Many of your guests may have to travel some distance to attend your ceremony. These attendants benefit from knowing the details about the occasion months ahead of time. They can purchase airline tickets at lower rates or make sufficient sleeping arrangements with relatives or friends. Both of these will save them money. You can include phone numbers of hotels and links to flight scheduling sites in your save the date announcements.

Now that you have your date, time and place for your occasion, you can concentrate on a theme for the event. Many of the people attending the party may be very impressed if you use the save the date announcements to introduce the theme. For example, you may want to throw a summer luau. You may find Hawaiian-themed cards to send to your guests.

The theme can be carried over right into the luau if you plan ahead. You can use the response cards from the announcements to make seating arrangements at the party. Save the response cards and place them on the table where each guest will be seated. The cards will help you keep track of the number of guests and they will help your organize seating arrangement.

Having a theme in mind before sending the save the date announcements will help you stay organized enough to float through the nerve-racking planning stages. You may also include a list of activities that you are planning right in your announcements. This helps your future guests decide what to wear and it gives them some insight to the general mood of your special day.

You might wish to check out the following sites:

Technorati Tags: announcing special event, date announcements, planning special event, save the date Announcements

Life is at a fast pace in today’s society, and that’s why finding anything that can save time is so popular. Think of once a month cooking as TV dinners that taste good. It’s your cooking that you’re used to, but with a twist. A lot of others use it because it eliminates the hassle of preparing a meal everyday and clean up, sometimes up to 3 times a day. It doesn’t matter if you’re single, married or retired it fits in with all lifestyles when you use once a month cooking.

The great thing about it is that all of your meals are prepared on a weekend for the next month. Because your food is preplanned you also save on your energy bills. You won’t have to heat your home everyday either, and bring up your cooling costs in the summer.

Think about how many times you’ve opened the refrigerator door only to find forgotten food that has molded - wasted. This won’t happen with once a month cooking. Food is preplanned according to you or your family’s appetite. You’ll save money too by not going out to eat all the time. That is part of the appeal of fast food type restaurants – it’s fast. Your meals will be quick too when you use the idea of once a month cooking.

Your menu plans should include a balanced meal throughout the month. You’ll need to learn either how to include dishes like casseroles that have a variety of nutritional elements, or prepare several dishes for one meal. You’re lucky if you have a large freezer to store up your prepared once a month cooking meals, and if you don’t, large freezers can be bought that are affordable. Space might be the only thing that would limit you, but if you’ve got a garage, just place the freezer out there when once a month cooking happens at your house.

If you can’t afford a freezer or you simply don’t have the room for one, there are a few places that will let you do once a month cooking. Some restaurants will let you stop in and cook, but you’ll need to work out a schedule with them. Many churches have classes in this type of cooking. A benefit is you can exchange recipes, and learn how to cook a variety of meals.

Family having dinner together is a great way of spending quality time.  But most of the family do not have time to prepare dinner daily.  Once a month cooking frees you up for life yet allows you to spend time with you family. Enjoy your family dinner!

Related Sites:

Technorati Tags: once a month cooking, cooking for the family, family meal, family meals, exchange recipes