Quality TravelPro Luggage for your Honeymoon Planning

If you are planning the honeymoon of your dreams, you may be wrapped up in thing such as flights and excursions. Don’t forget an important aspect of travel: LUGGAGE! Here is a great guide to selecting the perfect luggage for your honeymoon!

Hard or Soft

Soft suitcases are generally lighter than a hard cased one, although their level of protection is not as sufficient. Synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon are used to create soft luggage. A hard case is generally made from polypropylene or polycarbonate. If you are trying to find an extremely light case, try finding one that has a fairly thin body frame.

Durability

Although weight is an important part of luggage, it shouldn’t be the only factor in purchasing a luggage set. The durability of your luggage is just as important as the weight. You won’t be glad that you saved a few dollars at the baggage claim when your items arrive damaged. Durability is a must with any form of luggage.

Expandability

Some luggage sets provide users with the option of expanding the case if they need more room. This is often handy for vacations when you return home with more items than you expected. This feature provides an excellent level of flexibility on your suitcase, especially if you travel to a location where you will return with a heavier load.

Misc Features

While they might not seem “important”, don't ignore other features such as organizer pockets, interior lining, and packing straps. These handy features can essentially change your mind when purchasing a luggage set.

Don’t worry about your luggage as you travel with your new spouse! Browse quality, durable luggage at TravelPro Luggage Outlet!

Affordable Honeymoon Luggage

Bellacroft’s Top Baby Shower Games

A baby shower is a special event or any expecting woman and her family. The celebration is all about showering gifts and goodies to the expecting woman and the soon-to be born baby.

With so many fun aspects of a baby shower, including food, gifts and socializing, let’s not forget the REAL fun part: the baby shower games! Here are a few fun ideas for your baby shower game planning:

1. Measure The Tummy-

As we all know the girth of the expectant woman is a definitely a topic of discussion in most baby showers, so why not discuss her belly size? (Be sure to check with the mommy first!) A ball of ribbon or string is handed over to each guest. They have to guess the size of the tummy and pull out the length they believe is the size of the tummy. The winner is the person whose string measures closest in length to the actual size.

2. Tying the Diaper. -

This game can be played individually or in a group. The guests are blindfolded and handed over a doll with a diaper. They have to remove the diaper and perfectly place another diaper on the doll in the shortest time.

3. Musical Chair-

This is an all time favorite game and suits every occasion. Fun for any age!

4. Name the baby- Each guest is given a piece of paper and a pen. The group is then timed trying to find baby names out of the word “Baby Shower”. The winner with the most names wins a prize!

5. Pass the Ball-

This game requires 2 bowls, a spoon and small cotton balls. Fill one bowl with the cotton balls. Place the other empty bowl at a distance apart. Blindfold the player. He/she has to transfer the cotton ball with the spoon into the other empty ball. Since the cotton ball is light weight; the player hardly realizes when it falls away midway. The winner is the person who collects maximum number of the cotton balls.

Baby Shower games encourage guests to have a fun time – celebrating the birth of a baby and having a blast!

Affordable Baby Shower Favors

Unique Ceremony Ideas

Everybody wants to incorporate a unique tradition or ceremony into their wedding to make it a little extra-special. Actually, there are dozens of creative and inspiring ideas that are both traditional and non-traditional that will compliment your theme and your personalities.

Here are a few suggestions that would add a wonderful touch to your wedding celebration:

1) Incorporate some European tradition into your wedding by circling the altar together three times before proceeding back up the aisle for the recessional.

2) Instead of having each bridesmaid's bouquet look the same, choose a particular flower for each bridesmaid that best suits their personality. If you want to take it a step further, change the groomsmen’s tie or button to match their personalities.

3) Bring in a little of “Mexico” by asking the guests to form a "circle" around the bride and groom in the shape of a heart. The bridal couple will then dance their first dance within the heart as a symbol of romance!

4) Bring a little Romanian tradition into your wedding by having traditional musicians (Lautari), sing, dance, tell stories, perform magic tricks and more!

As always, the bride and groom can incorporate the:

· Unity Sand Ceremony

· Love Letter Ceremony

Sand Ceremony Accessories

Wedding Tips: Many Uses of Ribbon by Bellacroft

When planning the decor for your upcoming wedding ceremony, Bellacroft recommends staying simple. Actually, the term “less is more” comes to mind. Too many decorations and accessories can be distracting when the main focal point is… you!

Adding simple decorations such as ribbon or a simple bow to chairs or pews, to your lighting outlets or your sand ceremony vases will make a huge impact with only a little cost and elbow grease. With ribbon, the possibilities are endless! 

If your ceremony is all set but you feel as though your reception is lacking, don’t fear! The reception can be the most fun of all when wedding planning.  With so many options and colors out there, creating your ideal reception space can seem like a daunting challenge at times.

Because ribbon is so versatile, brides have millions of possibilities to really complete the décor. Ribbons are available in so many colors and sizes that you can coordinate everything so that it fits perfectly into your color scheme or wedding theme.  It can be as chic, playful, pretty or plain as you like, so just about any wedding style you’re planning can include ribbon.

If you feel as though your wedding décor is lacking, add a little ribbon to transform it into an elegant and beautiful piece of art!

Weddingstar Gros Grain Ribbon

Bellacroft’s Wedding Cake Q & A

As you might learn, your dream wedding cake can be ordered from a baker, a caterer, or even your wedding venue. When ordering your wedding cake, there are some things that you should consider such as: the price, the workmanship, the quality and, of course, the taste. Be sure to check with your venue as many locations will charge you an additional fee if you order your cake from an outside source such as a baker. Don’t worry, ordering from a baker who specializes in wedding cakes will ensure you are getting exactly what you want for your wedding cake.

You also have to talk with you groom about other cake details: size, shape, color, decorations, flavor, filling and frosting. An experienced wedding baker who specializes in wedding cakes will advise you how much cake you will need, what flavors are popular, and which frostings will hold up over the course of your reception. Many frostings are delicate and will discolor in a particular heat/temperature. Don’t hesitate to ask for a tasting session to be sure that you love the cake, filling and icing combinations.

Once you narrow down your choices for a baker here are some questions to ask before making a final decision:

1. How many years have you been designing and making wedding cakes?

2. What are your specialties?

3. What is your most popular flavor?

4. What is your most popular filling?

5. What frosting would you recommend for our event?

6. Do you have photographs of some recent cakes you have made?

7. Can we sample your wedding cakes?

8. Do you freeze your wedding cakes?

9. How far in advance should I order my cake?

10. (If applicable) Can I order a groom's cake?

11. How much is my desired cake?

12. How much per piece does my desired cake cost?

13. What is your cake pillar fee?

14. What is your cake plate rental fee?

15. Are these fees refundable upon the return of these items?

16. When must these items be returned?

17. Do you offer a specialty box in which we can freeze the top tier?

18. If so, How much does this box cost?

19. When will you deliver the cake?

20. What is your delivery fee?

21. What is your set up fee?

22. What is your payment policy?

23. What is your cancellation policy?

24. Do you offer a money back guarantee if something should happen to the cake?

25. Do you have liability insurance?

Once the cake is situated and ordered, it is time to select your cake accessories for the cake cutting ceremony. This includes your cake topper and cake serving set! Bellacroft features hundreds of wedding cake accessories!

Cake Serving Sets

Bellacroft’s Bridal Fashion: Wedding Dress Myths Unveiled

Many brides fear the myths that are constantly being brought to their attention. While many of these myths are fun, others are brutal and are feared by brides. Here are some of the common myths and superstitions that surround the wedding day:

1. Rain. It has been said that if it rains on your wedding day, many tears will be shed during the marriage. On the other hand, many other customs show that rain is a sign of good luck and will bring blessings to the marriage. A rainy wedding day also foretells of many children to be born to the wedding couple.

2. Shoes. Decades ago, the father would pass one shoe of the bride's to the groom to signify him giving his daughter away in marriage. It is also considered good luck for the groom's mother to throw a shoe at the bride as the couple leaves their reception so that the bride and her mother-in-law would forever be the best of friends. In addition to these, the bride should wear penny in her shoe while being married for good luck and wealth.

3. Wedding Gown. Years ago, it was considered good luck to have a piece of the wedding gown, so then the dress was literally ripped to pieces with the bride still in it. It is considered unlucky for a groom to see his bride in her wedding dress as well as for her to try on the wedding dress more than one time after alterations. Many brides don’t know that it’s considered good luck for her to enter the venue on her right foot.

4. Wedding Ring. The wedding ring is believed to be sacred and should not be lent to others to try on, this is sure to bring bad luck and even the possibility of unfaithfulness. If ever the wedding rings are removed by a bride it must be the groom who returns them to her fingers to continue the good luck.

Weddingstar Scrolls and Flowers Tiara in Silver

Bellacroft’s Honeymoon Budget Planning

How can you plan a honeymoon on a budget? Simple! With some early planning and price comparisons, you’ll find that you can take a luxurious and exotic honeymoon vacation and save hundreds of dollars! Here are some ideas:

Florida: Dubbed the Sunshine State, Florida is simply that. Florida has many sights to see including Walt Disney World!

Stay In Your Own State Sometimes the best getaways are not too far from home. Have you ever explored your own home state? What better way to start a new life than getting to know more about where you live? A honeymoon spent traveling around your home state can be a very affordable option that is still a lot of fun.

Bed and Breakfast Head to a Bed & Breakfast for your honeymoon. You get a cozy atmosphere that gives you an exceptional savings over a hotel. These relaxing venues feature a staff that is aiming to please!

Take a Honeymoon Cruise Cruises are one of the most affordable vacations because food in included in the bill. You can travel and explore many places for just the price of one!

Mexico A short trip south of the border puts you in an ideal honeymoon spot. Mexico is not too far to travel and has some great resorts at prices that will amaze you. You can take in the beaches and the explore the local attractions for a budget price.

Thailand If you want something that is more of an adventure then consider Thailand. Again, you get beautiful beaches, but with an exotic flair. Thailand is very affordable with budget friendly resorts and spectacular deals on airfare.

Jamaica Don't immediately assume this popular destination is too expensive. You really can get a budget honeymoon deal in Jamaica. Explore the Caribbean, go shopping, enjoy golf and hang out on the beach on this budget honeymoon.

Have Your Honeymoon Outdoors Camping is a wonderful way to spend your honeymoon if you are a nature loving couple. This is most likely the most affordable option on this list. When camping, you list of necessities are very small – keeping your budget right on track.

Weddingstar Honeymoon Memory Book

Unique Baby Shower Ideas by Bellacroft

Expecting moms have taken the traditional baby shower and added huge twists which have thrown the old “blue and pink” themes out of the window. Modern showers are including extravagant cupcakes, bold colors and exciting games.

Party Themes and Favors

New mommies are trading in the old baby showers for fun, bold and nontraditional colors. The top 2011 colors are browns with light blues, ivory with pinks or greens, and light yellow with brown. Likewise, many are going green and opting for 'earth tones' because green baby nurseries are also becoming very popular.

Most baby shower desserts are large cakes, right? Not anymore. Couture cupcakes have come into style and can be found in every shopping plaza or mall. This new baby shower trend is so appealing because it allows the planners to have several different baby designs and colors on the cupcakes.

While you’re mixing up your baby shower plans, don’t forget the favors!  Cookies in the shape of babies, bottles or strollers are a great new baby shower idea. It allows your guests the opportunity to design their own bottle with icing and sprinkles. Don’t want to bake or buy the cookies? Try giving cookie cutters in the shape of baby items.

Shower guests

Years ago, it was common for only women to be invited to the baby shower. These days, it’s being mixed up by throwing men into the list!  If you decide to throw a shower with men and children, be sure to accommodate them. For example: men would like beer, manly food choices, guitar hero, baseball game playing, etc. Children on the other hand will need: craft tables, finger foods, games and other activities.

Cocktail Time

Just because the expecting mommy can’t drink doesn’t mean that you can’t serve some light cocktails for your guests! Create a bar menu with specialty mixed drinks (and some non-alcoholic drinks for the mommy-to-be and kids if they are invited) Some great drinks to serve are mimosas or bellinis, these drinks will be sure to help your guests loosen up and start talking.

Mommy Gifts

If the mommy-to-be has children or doesn’t really want anything for the new born, try to think of a great gift for the MOMMY. A gift certificate to a spa or a pretty piece of jewelry is always a lovely gift idea that has special meaning and is sure to be a hit.

Baby Shower Favors

Bellacroft’s Fun Wedding Myths

If you’re superstitious, you most certainly know of the below wedding myths. Many brides take them seriously while others think nothing of them. None the less, they are a part of wedding tradition and history and are definitely fun facts!

1. Rain. It has been said that if it rains on your wedding day, many tears will be shed during the marriage. On the other hand, many other customs show that rain is a sign of good luck and will bring blessings to the marriage. A rainy wedding day also foretells of many children to be born to the wedding couple.

2. Shoes. Decades ago, the father would pass one shoe of the bride's to the groom to signify him giving his daughter away in marriage. It is also considered good luck for the groom's mother to throw a shoe at the bride as the couple leaves their reception so that the bride and her mother-in-law would forever be the best of friends. In addition to these, the bride should wear penny in her shoe while being married for good luck and wealth.

3. Wedding Gown. Years ago, it was considered good luck to have a piece of the wedding gown, so then the dress was literally ripped to pieces with the bride still in it. It is considered unlucky for a groom to see his bride in her wedding dress as well as for her to try on the wedding dress more than one time after alterations. Many brides don’t know that it’s considered good luck for her to enter the venue on her right foot.

4. Wedding Ring. The wedding ring is believed to be sacred and should not be lent to others to try on, this is sure to bring bad luck and even the possibility of unfaithfulness. If ever the wedding rings are removed by a bride it must be the groom who returns them to her fingers to continue the good luck.

Weddingstar Wedding Accessories

Outdoor Wedding Venues

If you’re an outdoor type of person, then you should say “I Do” in the fresh air! There are plenty of outdoor venue options for the bride and groom to select from. Oftentimes, these options are less expensive than the traditional church or catering hall.

While there are many outdoor solutions, depending on your state or city you might be limited so be sure to do plenty of research.

Below are some tips on selecting the perfect outdoor wedding venue:

First and foremost, you must select the actual venue. When deciding on the type of venue, you should consider: the weather, the arrival time, the number of guests, duration of stay, parking availability for the guests. The outdoor venue should have parking accommodations as well as proper seating.

Second, the venue selection is made while keeping the budget in mind. Outdoor celebrations require some additional planning aside from the actual cost of the location. The location that you select is reflected in the wedding pictures, video, and through stories, it is important that one makes the right choice.

Here are some great outdoor wedding ideas:

• Garden Wedding:

Gardens are known for their beautiful greenery, flowers, and water. This gives the wedding an elegant-classic ambiance. The use and types of flowers, trees, and open space is important for a garden venue and the right garden venue must be selected to make it match with the wedding theme and the venues surrounding environment.

• Beach Wedding:

These have an extremely large budget range: from being most economical to most expensive wedding. A beach wedding offers a very comfortable and relaxing environment offering simplicity to your choice of wedding dress and decorations.

Outdoor Wedding Accessories

Cooling Off your Summer Wedding

Many brides picture having outdoor weddings in the beautiful summer months. With record temperatures at an all time high this year, brides are looking towards hot and humid weddings as well! Here are a few ideas for beating the summer heat during your wedding!

The number one idea that brides and grooms give out are fans. These fans are available in a variety of colors and styles to coordinate with your wedding theme or color scheme. Fans can be given as favors to your guests – they are considered useful favors which guests will use in the future.  Wedding fans open up and help circulate air if your guest is feeling too hot, while folding to minimize space when not in use.

Your menu should reflect the heat too. Keep lots of bottled water out (and look into personalized water labels!) and avoid alcohol and caffeine which tends to dehydrate). Keeping popsicles and cold, fresh fruit on hand will also be refreshing and may help you to restore some of the nutrients your body will lose during the summer heat.

Make sure that if your guests are in direct sun light that you supply ample sunscreen. Add little notes in your wedding invitation telling them to dress appropriately so nobody is uncomfortable in the heat.

If your wedding includes pets, be sure to take them into consideration! Your precious pets shouldn't be left outside in extensive heat and should never be left in the car, even with the windows down a crack! Pets should have ample water available and be taken into the AC when possible.

Wedding Fans

York & White Presents: Wedding Bubbles

York & White recommends wedding bubbles for any wedding as they are mess-free and romantic. Wedding bubbles are great for any time of the day!

The Wedding Bubbles

Wedding bubbles are beautiful and can be used at the beginning of the wedding ceremony or to send off the bride and groom.  Similar to flower girls in the wedding ceremony, the wedding bubble girls can give a perfect entrance for bride and groom.  By placing the wedding bubbles bottle near the wedding aisles, you allow the guest to make bubbles for a great entrance. To make the guests grasp the idea, you can place a few guests who know bout the wedding bubble. The rest will follow.

Wedding bubbles can be purchased in various containers which can be placed on reception tables as favors.

The Wedding Rice Toss

After the wedding, it is a wedding tradition to throw rice on the newlyweds. The wedding tradition of wedding tosses started in ancient history. We have to look at ancient civilizations like Romans, Assyrians, Hebrews, and Egyptians. The rice is most popular, but the wheat, barley, seeds, nuts, flower petals are also popular. Perhaps, the rice is the most affordable.

In today’s bridal world, the wedding bubbles have replaced the rice toss as they are environmentally friendly and there is virtually no clean up.

Wedding Bubbles

Lillian Rose Beaded Photo Album White

 

There are ways that the wedding album that can be crafted to preserve memories that will last for a lifetime. Below are a few ideas for wedding photo albums that many guests have shared:

Gifting a Wedding Photo Album

Many guests often take their own photos at a wedding ceremony and reception. These photos can be added to wedding photo albums to create a wonderful gift! These albums can be created digitally on the computer (via specific web sites) or simply manually inserted into a bridal photo album (often created with the most meaning).

Creating Your Own

If you're an ambitious bride, you might want to create your own wedding photo album. This can be done by simply adding wedding photos to a bridal album or crafting a bridal scrapbook using embellishments. This might take some creativity but is a lot easier than you think. Many craft stores sell wedding stickers and accessories that create the perfect bridal keepsake.

Guest Book Ideas

Your guest book can be transformed into a wedding photo album by adding photo inserts or pasting photos on the actual signed pages. This is a great idea if your guests took beautiful photos that can be inserted directly underneath their sentiments.

Remember - almost every bride regrets not taking enough photos. Whether you hire a professional photographer or if you are having a friend or family member do the job, be sure to tell them to snap away at every occasion!

Lillian Rose Beaded Photo Album White

Garden Wedding Planning

 

If you have always dreamed of saying "I Do" in a garden, then a garden themed wedding is just for you! Whether you are having this celebration indoors or outdoors, garden themed weddings are simple and affordable.

Obviously, flowers are highlight of a garden style wedding. Select colors based on your mood and sentiments. Select colors that can be carried through the rest of your wedding ceremony and reception.  Many garden themed weddings include flowers such as: lush garden roses, peonies, hydrangeas, and iris. Flowers for a garden themed wedding can be loosely arranged in a beautiful vessel, such as footed urns. Avoid any centerpieces that are too modern or structured. If your wedding is outdoor, try using pots for your flower arrangements as they will not be moved during any windy moments.

To enhance the garden theme, use flowers all throughout your venue. Think outside of the box by using wreaths, garland, flower petals, etc. This creates a beautiful ambiance for any garden themed weddings.

If you have selected a color theme for your desired flowers, be sure to dress your bridal party in that color too. Plain, white and black can be transformed by just a few simple hues to really enhance the garden theme!

Selecting your food can also have a great effect on your garden theme.  Small appetizers like cheese puffs and cucumber sandwiches served with lemonade or champagne punch would be a great place to start. For the main meal, use plenty of seasonal fresh vegetables paired with lighter proteins like chicken or lamb. Stay away from dishes that are heavy, such as those covered in rich sauces.

Having your wedding in a garden or creating the feel of a garden inside is a wonderful style for your wedding. There are many garden favors available to complete the look!

Weddingstar Beautiful Butterfly Decorative Set

Summer Wedding Colors with York & White

 

Pink has become the ultimate bridal color to symbolize romance this summer. Known as the most feminine hue, pink generally represents romance, friendship, innocence, charm, tenderness, etc. Having said this, it's no surprise that women prefer the color pink for their summer vows. Pink's alternative, red, symbolizes passionate love, pink is ideal to denote romantic love. Pink is the most popular choice for Summer Weddings because it blends in nicely with any summer theme.

While red is the traditional color option for Indian Weddings, many brides prefer pink, especially in Summer Weddings mainly due to its charm. Brides can add pink to their favors, decor, cake, and even fashion.

When paired with silver or pale golden finish Bridal Jewelery, the entire Bridal look transforms into an elegant style. These days, grooms are even stepping to the plate by wearing pink with their tuxedo. Pink can be extremely incorporated into your ceremony or color scheme by adding a Sand Ceremony Set with pink and white sand - pink can be coordinated with any color, especially brown, gray or white!

Lillian Rose Circle Confetti - Pink

The Grooms Cake

 

The groom's cake is a longstanding tradition in the South. Traditionally, each young single woman who attended the wedding would get be given a piece of grooms cake to take home.  It was once believed that if she placed the slice of cake under her pillow, she would soon find a husband.

With the grooms cake making a huge comeback these days, many brides are trying to surprise their husbands to be with creative and fun grooms cakes!  These tasty treats are designed to reflect the groom's interests, hobbies, or career, the groom's cake can be served at the rehearsal dinner, at a separate event, or even alongside the wedding cake at the main event.

Here are some popular ideas for the groom’s cake:

1. Sports:

If the groom is a huge sports fan, this is the best way to present the groom’s cake. Many cake decorators can transform a wedding cake (tiered or not) into a sports field and there are many popular cake toppers such as the Weddingstar Hockey Fanatic that can perfectly complete the cake

2. Formal Dress Groom’s Cake:

Many other brides like the look of a clean-cut tuxedo cake to match the groom’s bridal attire. If the groom is wearing hints of blue, add it to the cake to it matches him on his big day!  Don't forget to add an icing bowtie or tie, as well as an edible boutonnières.

3. Traditional Groom’s Cakes:

If your groom doesn’t have a specific interest or you want your groom’s cake to be basic – this is OK too! Many brides select simple chocolate tiered cakes with darker (manly) colors. The groom’s cake can match with the actual wedding cake which is symbolic of the relationship itself.

Cake Toppers

D'Lusso Home Collection Gifts

 

D’Lusso has been in the gift giving industry for years. Featuring top of the line ceramic gifts, these items are widely known for their Italian sense of style.

D’Lusso Home Collection gifts can be used as:

• Wedding Favors
• House Warming Gifts
• Birthday Gifts
• Special Event Favors
• And more!

Select from a variety of Oil Vinegar Sets, Salt and Pepper Shakers, coffee collections, ceramic platters, gift sets and more!

Each item can be found in a variety of styles and colors – perfect for displaying in your china cabinet or kitchen.

York & White is proud to feature D’Lusso Home Collection at low, affordable prices! $5 shipping on ALL ORDERS and FREE SHIPPING on orders over $75!

D'Lusso Home Collection Gifts

York & White Explains the Six Pence Holder

 

There are several well known wedding traditions and these vary from country to country. Wedding traditions vary widely from country to country. This is the case for wedding gifts we are given or the wedding accessories that we use or wear. One of the most popular wedding traditions is the "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" tradition. What many people don't realize is that the six pence tradition is popular as well.

Something Old
The meaning behind something old is a simple one but does carry with it a piece of profound wisdom and advice. Something old is to remind the marrying couple where they hail from and the family history they represent.

Something New
Something new symbolizes new life and the hope of health, wealth, and prosperity that new couple will strive for as they enter into their new lives together. Carrying something new into the very ceremony that binds them will (hopefully) ensure that the marriage will succeed and the couple will have a wonderful and happy life together.

Something Borrowed
Borrowing something from a friend or family member shows that no matter what lies ahead for the newlyweds, they can always count on help from their families and close friends in times of trouble.

Something Blue
Blue symbolizes purity, which is why brides will find some way to incorporate blue into their wedding ensemble.

The last of these is the silver sixpence worn in the bride's shoe. This tradition was supposed to bring good luck and fortune to the bride and groom. Many women still put a shiny penny in their wedding shoe to favor the winds of fortune and bring them luck in all matters financial in their wedding. Other superstitious brides believe that it has to be a silver coin in order to bring good luck.

Lillian Rose Bridal Shoe Six Pence Holder

Weddingstar Love Letter Ceremony Box Set

 

While the unity sand ceremony is a popular choice, the love letter ceremony is quickly rising to the top of the charts.  It is a special moment when the bride and groom ceremoniously exchange love letters, locking them into a box and sealing it with a kiss and a toast.  While you likely have some ideas floating around about the best wedding accessories to remember this special time, consider capturing the romance with a Love Letter Ceremony. This is a great alternative to the traditional unity candle ceremony, and provides a unique way to remember your wedding day long after the honeymoon.

Most Love Letter Ceremony Sets include a beautiful pair of wine goblets, exclusive wedding stationery for the bride and groom, and a place to lay a special bottle of wine to share later in your marriage. Before the wedding day, the bride and groom each write a love letter expressing their deepest feelings towards each other. They may explain exactly what it is about the other person that they love so much, their goals for their future, and even some special memories they shared together.

The bride and groom will then close the box and lock it with a key. The newlyweds will have this box and its contents as a special memory of their commitment to each other. When the time comes, whether in the midst of hardship or while celebrating their 5 year Anniversary, the couple can reopen the case and relive that special moment when they said, “I do.” The letters will finally be shared along with a special wedding day bottle of wine.

Love Letter Ceremony

Weddingstar Love Letter Ceremony Box Set

Bellacroft’s Fun Wedding Myths

 

Many brides fear the myths that are constantly being brought to their attention. While many of these myths are fun, others are brutal and are feared by brides. Here are some of the common myths and superstitions that surround the wedding day:

1. Rain. It has been said that if it rains on your wedding day, many tears will be shed during the marriage. On the other hand, many other customs show that rain is a sign of good luck and will bring blessings to the marriage. A rainy wedding day also foretells of many children to be born to the wedding couple.

2. Shoes. Decades ago, the father would pass one shoe of the bride's to the groom to signify him giving his daughter away in marriage. It is also considered good luck for the groom's mother to throw a shoe at the bride as the couple leaves their reception so that the bride and her mother-in-law would forever be the best of friends. In addition to these, the bride should wear penny in her shoe while being married for good luck and wealth.

3. Wedding Gown. Years ago, it was considered good luck to have a piece of the wedding gown, so then the dress was literally ripped to pieces with the bride still in it. It is considered unlucky for a groom to see his bride in her wedding dress as well as for her to try on the wedding dress more than one time after alterations. Many brides don’t know that it’s considered good luck for her to enter the venue on her right foot.

4. Wedding Ring. The wedding ring is believed to be sacred and should not be lent to others to try on, this is sure to bring bad luck and even the possibility of unfaithfulness. If ever the wedding rings are removed by a bride it must be the groom who returns them to her fingers to continue the good luck.

Affordable Wedding Accessories

York & White’s Wedding Budget Tips

 

These days, the economy isn’t doing so well which means that brides and grooms are having to cut corners for their wedding planning. No problem! York & White has a list of budget friendly wedding tips that will help save money:

1. Select a Location:  If you select the right place, you can save a ton of money. Outdoor locations such as gardens, beaches or lakes are perfect because the nature aspects are decoration enough. If you select certain beaches, you may not have to pay for a thing!

2. Guest List: Begin by writing down your family members and then extend it to close family friends. Once your list is completed, stick to it! Don’t invite co-workers that you rarely speak to as the more people that attend, the higher the price of the wedding.

3. Create your own wedding invitations. Many companies charge an arm and a leg for wedding invitations. Try do-it-yourself invitation kits to cut costs in half. These kits generally include the paper and the instructions to create beautiful invitations that will look expensive and professional.

4. Design your own centerpiece.  Make them yourself!  You can check for ideas from local craft stores. Look online for great online deals. York & White is a great starting point.

5. Search for discounted wedding favors. Begin by selecting  a theme or color scheme and then stick to that. York & White features favors from Weddingstar, Cassiani, Fashioncraft and more – all discounted!

6. Don’t spend thousands of dollars on a wedding gown. Many designer stores offer clearance racks that will suit you perfectly. Remember, you will only be wearing this gown once! Many brides actually purchase “previously loved” gowns which are in perfect condition (as they were only worn once for a few hours!)

7. Skip the professional photographer. Have a close family member or friend be in charge of photos. Make a list of shots that you want and set up a little photo shoot (just a photographer would!). You can also scatter disposable cameras on the tables for the guests to snap away. These shots are always fun and many come out just as professional (and a fraction of the cost!)

8. Don’t book two places for your wedding ceremony and reception. Have them all in once place. Select an inexpensive country club for the wedding reception, set-up the wedding ceremony in their professionally landscaped lawn etc.  Not only does this save your wallet from booking two locations, it also saves guests the hassle of traveling to a different location for a reception.

If you can try to stick to a few of these tips, you will greatly reduce the cost of your wedding and it will still be the day that you dreamed of!

Discounted Wedding Accessories

Spring Wedding Planning With York & White

 

Spring is upon us which means that all of the flowers will be in bloom, the weather will be warming up and brides are actively planning their Spring time weddings!

The first place to begin is the wedding gown. In the spring, brides have the freedom to add beautiful pastel colors or flower accessories to match the seasonal theme.  For instance, a simple white gown can be decked up with plenty of flowers and butterflies. Luckily, brides also have a wide variety of butterfly or floral jewelry to select from to complete their Spring look.

With spring represents “coming back to life” as many flowers are blooming and so many beautiful butterflies are celebrating the rebirth of their flower companions. Brides have plenty of options – although Butterflies are more quiet and serene and dragonflies are more fun and active.

Other popular Spring ideas include flowers. Flowers, whether fresh or silk, are bright and colorful. If your wedding is outdoors, a beautiful way to say “I Do” is in a flower garden in the cool spring air. Flowers can be centerpieces, decor or added into favors to complete the theme.

As the Spring months warm up, brides become more and more excited about the upcoming wedding planning and York & White has the Spring bridal accessories to complete your special event!

Spring Wedding Accessories

Personalized Wine Labels

 

Generally, a wedding will have some form of alcohol. Many modern weddings are skipping the open bar to save money and just offering glasses of wine. This is the perfect time to use Weddingstar’s personalized wine bottle labels!

Available in an assortment of styles and themes, these wine bottle labels can transform an ordinary bottle of wine into a beautiful keepsake!

Having a wine themed wedding? Perfect! Scatter wine stoppers and wine charms around your tables and give each guest a personalized bottle of wine to remember your day!

Weddingstar’s Love Bird Wine Labels are available in 4 different colors to represent the 4 seasons of love!

Personalized Wine Labels

Unique Wedding Ceremony Ideas

Everybody wants to incorporate a unique tradition or ceremony into their wedding to make it a little extra-special. Actually, there are dozens of creative and inspiring ideas that are both traditional and non-traditional that will compliment your theme and your personalities.

Here are a few suggestions that would add a wonderful touch to your wedding celebration:

1) Incorporate some European tradition into your wedding by circling the altar together three times before proceeding back up the aisle for the recessional.

2) Instead of having each bridesmaid's bouquet look the same, choose a particular flower for each bridesmaid that best suits their personality. If you want to take it a step further, change the groomsmen’s tie or button to match their personalities.

3) Bring in a little of “Mexico” by asking the guests to form a "circle" around the bride and groom in the shape of a heart. The bridal couple will then dance their first dance within the heart as a symbol of romance!

4) Bring a little Romanian tradition into your wedding by having traditional musicians (Lautari), sing, dance, tell stories, perform magic tricks and more!

As always, the bride and groom can incorporate the:

· Unity Sand Ceremony

· Love Letter Ceremony

Wedding Ceremony Accessories

Spring Wedding Colors: Tangerine and Lime

 

If you've set your wedding date for the spring, you want to start planning and a really great, fresh spring color scheme is tangerine and lime. 

Picture a bowl of fresh citrus fruit, and you will see how well these two contrasting colors in fact complement each other nicely.  They will add a modern and exuberant feel to any spring or summer wedding.

These colors can be used in a bright, fun atmosphere or can be toned down by a crisp white addition. This theme doesn't have to stop with just favors, it can be used throughout your planning in decor, ceremony accessories, reception accessories and even fashion.

If you match your colors correctly,  you can try mixing and matching different prints and patterns for your tablescape. For example, try lime and tangerine scroll patterned napkins over a tablecloth striped with tangerine, lime, and white.  The ending result will be bright and wonderful. 

Many brides are straying from the "all white" wedding gown and adding a touch of color to spice things up. Lime and tangerine accents will make a striking difference in any wedding dress! This look can also be followed through with the bridal party, especially the bridesmaid dresses. To complete the total look, you can have bridesmaid jewelry custom made in your wedding colors. An addition of bright Swarovksi crystals will add depth, style and sparkle to any ensemble!

Because your color scheme essentially revolves around fruit, you can add actual fruits to your decor to keep it fresh and colorful.  Fill a beautiful glass pitchers with limeade, tangerine juice, and lemonade at the venue or location. A unique way to incorporate the citrus fruit would be to fill clear tall cylinders with the limes and tangerines submerged in water. These make excellent centerpieces!

Spring Wedding Accessories

Personalized Corporate Event Favors

 

If you’re hosting a corporate event, you might be overwhelmed. Let’s be honest, many employees don’t look forward to a corporate event, especially if they are known to be boring. If you’re in charge of planning the event, be sure that you:

• Think FUN
• Think GIFTS

Corporate gifts don’t have to be plain and expensive. On the contrary, a nice personalized business card holder would surely make your employees glad that they showed up!

Don’t forget games: Let your employees forget that they are at a WORK event by letting them cut loose and join in on some games. Each winner of the game should get a fun prize such as a gift card or bottle of wine. This will ensure that everybody leaves happy.

Rockwell Industry is famous for their personalized:

• Business Card Holders
• Pens
• Paper Weights
• And more!

Personalized Executive Black Leather Card Case

Coffee Themed Wedding Accessories at York & White

If you're planning your wedding on a budget, you might be skipping the open bar. Don't worry! Your guests won't mind if you offer soft drinks and coffee beverages. In fact, it's a great theme for any wedding as the colors are rich and romantic.

Weddingstar’s “A True Blend” stickers are ideal for wedding invitations or favors – giving a personalized touch to any ordinary bridal accessory.

York & White Tip: Serve coffee flavored deserts and beverages during your reception to keep guests warm and toasty. If you’re having an open bar, incorporate coffee flavored liqueur as well!

Weddingstar “A True Blend” Stickers

Bellacroft's Cake Decorating Tips

New to the Weddingstar collection! “A Kiss and We’re Off!” figurine is a romantic cake topper which gives a tribute to the bride and groom getting ready to depart on their upcoming honeymoon! Featuring brunette hair (a large request these days!), this cake topper features the bride standing on her suitcase giving her new groom a kiss as they prepare for their vacation! This couple shows all the excitement of a bride and groom about to start off on their first journey together as husband and wife.

Weddingstar “A Kiss and We’re Off!” Figurine

If you'd like more of a unified look, try the Weddingstar Beautiful Butterfly Cake Sets which can be found in 4 different colors. These accessories create a beautiful look which features cascading butterflies down your wedding cake!

Beautiful Butterfly Cake Sets

Signature Grand Wedding Photography Ideas

While many couples find it easier to hire a professional photographer, many brides and grooms simply cannot fit that cost into their wedding budget. What does this mean? Should you go without wedding photos? Of course not! Hire a friend to take your wedding photos and make clear directions so that your photos are captured perfectly!

• Have a written plan. Don’t assume that your designated photographer will know where and when to point and click. Make a list of all of the people, poses, and events you want to immortalize on film. This will help make sure that important guests, like the father of the bride, and significant milestones, like the exchanging of the rings, aren’t absent from your beach wedding album. One idea is to group the shot list by specific event, starting with the rehearsal and continuing through the reception.
• To prevent the subjects from getting dwarfed by the expansive surroundings, make sure the camera zooms in as close as possible (without blurring). For a majority of the shots, have the photographer stand in front of the sun to minimize the shadows and silhouettes that can detract from the subjects. If you do want a couple of silhouette shots (which can be very romantic), do the opposite.
• Make sure pictures are taken throughout the course of the day and evening, as different lighting options will afford different photographic opportunities.

Wedding Photography

Signature Grand's Celebrity Wedding Blog

If you're planning a wedding, it always helps to take a look at what the celebrities are doing. They are generally "in" on the latest fashions and bridal fads. Signature Grand Weddings is proud to feature a bridal blog that stays current with the latest engagement news, wedding news and honeymoon news! Catch up on:

• Kate Moss
• The Royal Wedding
• Carrie Underwood
• And more!

Celebrities are in the spotlight - so are their weddings! Don't miss any details! Check back with Signature Grand Weddings frequently to learn more!

Don't miss the bridal tips section which features articles on:

• Wedding Fashion
• Wedding Traditions
• Wedding Favors
• Wedding Planning Tips
• Wedding Ideas
• And more!

Signature Grand Celebrity Wedding Blog

Signature Grand Wedding Favors

Selecting wedding favors can quite possibly be one of most anticipated parts of a wedding (aside from cake tasting!). Of course, with such a wide variety on the market, many brides, however, become overwhelmed. Don't stress! These are small tokens of appreciation to your guests so be sure they are fun, incorporated with you theme and sentimental. Here are a few ideas:

• Small photo Frames
• Flower Seed Packets
• Vases
• Cookies/Cookie Mixes
• Magnets with your Engagement Photo
• Small Bottles of Wine
• Wine Glasses
• Small Box or Bag of Chocolates
• Bag of Almonds
• Candy Bottles
• Jellybeans
• M & M's
• Jars of Bubbles
• Candles
• Scented Oils
• Scented Sachets
• Seasonal or Holiday Item
• Engraved Pens or Pencils
• Cigars
• Scented Soaps
• Ceramic Angels or Doves

Wedding Planning

New Weddingstar Cake Toppers at Bellacroft

New to the Weddingstar collection! “A Kiss and We’re Off!” figurine is a romantic cake topper which gives a tribute to the bride and groom getting ready to depart on their upcoming honeymoon! Featuring brunette hair (a large request these days!), this cake topper features the bride standing on her suitcase giving her new groom a kiss as they prepare for their vacation! This couple shows all the excitement of a bride and groom about to start off on their first journey together as husband and wife.

Weddingstar “A Kiss and We’re Off!” Figurine

Signature Grand Wedding Budget Tips

In today’s tough economy, copious spending and lavish consumption have lost their appeal, as more and more brides scale back their wedding plans to meet strict budgets. Savvy spending has become all the rage – in fact, being “in the black” couldn’t be more fashionable. If you’re planning a wedding and think elegance and thriftiness can’t peacefully coexist, think again! Below are a few sensible tips for hosting a budget-minded celebration that will have your guests raving long after the last dance.

The Date. Caterers, DJs, rental companies, florists, and reception locales operate full-tilt from May – October, and are especially busy during prom season. Many vendors will offer discounts during their off-season months (November to April).

The Invitations. While engraved vellum invitations may be exquisite, they bear a hefty price tag that’s not easily justified when you’re planning on a modest budget. Save big while presenting an elegant first impression by printing invitations at home with a high-quality printer and professional cardstock.

Wedding Budget Planning

York & White Explains Wedding Cake Boxes

Wedding cake boxes might seem useless to you, however, they’re a great way to keep your preserved wedding cake safe from harm in your freezer. It’s become a tradition that the bride and groom preserve a slice (or the top tier) of their wedding cake for a year. The couple then opens and eats the cake (from the freezer) to celebrate their 1 year anniversary. The cake should be wrapped in saran wrap and then placed in a cake box in the freezer for safe keeping.

Most brides are very picky about their cake box as they want it to be decorative – the perfect keepsake to their wedding night. Here are some tips for selecting your wedding cake box?

Type Of Boxes

You want to add special touches to all that goes to your guests and towards the wedding day party. So you will have to decide on the very perfect cake and a wedding cake box for it. Before you decide on anything, you need to know the products available in the market.

• Personalized cake slice favor boxes- This is a nice way of saying thanks to all your guests. These boxes can be taken away so that your guests would be able to enjoy the slice later. Also, if few of your guests are not able to attend the function, they still can taste your wedding cake. Send your guests a slice of the cake with your choice of design or monogram and maybe with few text lines, thus making it more personal.
• Keepsake memories box or Bridal shower cakes top freeze storage box- You will be amazed to know that at few places it is a tradition to preserve a part of wedding cake and eat it on the first anniversary. These boxes are wonderful to meet such a requirement. They are specially made to keep the cake fresh and preserve it from freezer burn.
• Decorative cake boxes- You may order a bridal shower cake with a wonderful wedding cake recipe, sized as per your expected guest list, decorated as per your bride's choice but it all is a waste if your creativity can not be stored, transported and presented well. Hence you require a cake box which can do it all. These boxes are tailor made and suit the size of your cake. Designer effects are added to make it more presentable. At times, special plastic layers are added to keep the cake preserved for a longer duration in case more traveling is involved.

Wedding Cake Accessories