Event Planner

Quality TravelPro Luggage for your Honeymoon Planning

2011-11-01T10:27:00.001-07:00

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

2011-10-27T18:31:00.001-07:00

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

2011-10-14T05:01:00.001-07:00

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

2011-10-10T10:04:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-28T06:23:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-13T06:46:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-29T11:29:00.001-07:00

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

2011-07-25T08:48:00.001-07:00

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

2011-07-15T07:10:00.001-07:00

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!

Weddingstar Wedding Accessories

Outdoor Wedding Venues

2011-07-06T06:19:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-22T08:15:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-14T07:21:00.001-07:00

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

2011-05-24T07:36:00.001-07:00

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

2011-05-20T09:37:00.001-07:00

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

2011-05-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

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

2011-05-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

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

2011-04-28T08:42:00.001-07:00

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

2011-04-13T09:28:00.001-07:00

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

2011-04-07T08:37:00.001-07:00

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

2011-04-02T08:55:00.001-07:00

Affordable Wedding Accessories

York & White’s Wedding Budget Tips

2011-03-31T07:17:00.001-07:00

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

2011-03-24T07:30:00.001-07:00

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

2011-03-22T10:04:00.001-07:00

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

2011-03-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2011-03-14T07:56:00.001-07:00

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

2011-03-08T08:26:00.001-08:00

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

2011-03-02T08:23:00.000-08:00

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

2011-02-22T09:30:00.001-08:00

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

2011-02-15T07:29:00.000-08:00

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

2011-02-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

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

2011-02-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

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

2011-02-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

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

Signature Grand Wedding Budget Tips

2011-01-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-22T07:43:00.000-08:00

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

Arlene Pecora Dishes on Bridal Shower Planning

2011-01-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

Arlene Pecora, co-founder of the Signature Grand, has attended and hosted many bridal showers in her time at the catering venue. Need a little bridal shower advice? Ms. Pecora is happy to dish on some Bridal Shower Planning Tips:

A: Who will plan the bridal shower? Generally, the bridal party is thrown by the bride’s maid.
B: Who Pays? The bride’s maid usually pays, however, it is not uncommon for the brides family to assist with the expenses.
C: Create the Guest List: If the party is not a surprise, go ahead and ask the bride and groom. If it is a surprise, get creative by asking family for close friends and family information! Now is the time to decide if it will be a “girls only” celebration!
D: Select the Invitations: Invitations can be casual (i.e. phone calls) or formal (i.e. printed invitations)
E: Decorations and Theme! This is often the most fun for planning! Don’t worry about selecting a theme – if you can’t pick something, ask the groom or family members!

F: Location: Do you want the party to be in a hotel? Home? Catering Hall? This all depends on budget, but all are perfectly acceptable!

G: Menu: This is also according to your budget plan. Finger foods and snacks can be served, or an entire dinner!

Bridal Shower Planning

Discount Save the Dates at York & White

2011-01-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

Save the Dates are traditional methods to let your guests-to-be know that you have selected your wedding date and they should “save the date!”. Created by Cathy’s Concepts, these Save the Date magnets are Our “Save the Date” Magnets are perfectly sized and can be personalized as desired! Magnetic Save the Dates will look great displayed on all your friends and families’ refrigerators, creating a daily reminder of your well anticipated day! These accessories are “Do it Yourself” and are great ways to avoid additional professional printing costs. Each packet includes: 50 “Save the Date” magnets 50 envelopes Test Printing Sheets, Instructions & Template Information Details

Cathy’s Concepts “Save the Date” Magnet Kit

Bellacroft's Baby Shower Ideas

2011-01-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

If this is the first baby shower that you’re planning, you’ll quickly realize that food is an important aspect!

If you have thrown parties or baby shower’s before, then you already know the types of food to serve. This is the first step. The main thing to remember is that the food at a baby shower needs to be easy for the guests to snack on while ‘mingling’. This means small finger foods, snacks such as nuts and potato chips.

A good event incorporates several types of snacks and foods. Remember – not everybody eats meat or fatty items. It’s smart to have a few light, veggie snacks as well. This way everybody is happy!

Although all you really need to get is normal every day party snacks, it is also fun to have a few unique, baby shower foods as well!

As far as drinks and beverages go, you just need to make sure you have a small selection of different drinks. You can either go down the route of providing individual drinks or providing something like a punch for the entire party.

Baby Shower Favors

Weddingstar Coupon Code: BELLA10CROFT

2010-12-22T06:20:00.001-08:00

Most brides and grooms are trying to find the big deals this holiday season, which is why Bellacroft’s coupon is such a hot deal! For a limited time, guests can save on Weddingstar’s huge collection of:

Cake Toppers
Tiaras
Stationery
Wedding Favors
Wedding Decor
And more!

The coupon code allows you to save 10% off of any order of $75 or more PLUS FREE SHIPPING!

Perfect for your holiday bridal budget!

Weddingstar Coupon Code: BELLA10CROFT

Arlene Pecora Catering

2010-12-14T06:48:00.000-08:00

Catering tends to be something that most people just need a little help with. There is no need to hire a professional caterer and spend thousands of dollars for one event. With a little advice and some great creativity, you can transform any event into a wonderful event with just a little elbow grease. Arlene Pecora Catering features tips, advice and recipes for:

Weddings
Baby Showers
Birthdays
Anniversaries
Holiday Parties
Corporate Events
And more!

Whether you're looking for the perfect baby shower game or if you're simply stumped on your bridal centerpiece, Arlene Pecora can help with any event!

Arlene Pecora Catering

Signature Grand Wedding Photography Ideas

2010-12-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

How will you remember your big wedding day? By photos, of course! These days, however, professional photographers can cost a fortune and many brides and grooms simply cannot afford them. Modern weddings are now planned on a budget and that budget may not allow for costly photographers.

Fear not! There is still a way to have a ton of wedding pictures without breaking the bank as well!

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.

Signature Grand

Wedding Variations: Including Your Pet

2010-12-03T06:31:00.000-08:00

In a recent turn of bridal events, many brides and grooms are incorporating their favorite pet into their ceremony and reception. It's only normal, of course, as these days most pets are considered to be family. There are many things to consider when planning a wedding with a canine or other pet in the bridal party. While no one can blame you for wanting your special friend in attendance, here are a few things that can help the day run smoothly for all involved.

Most importantly, when selecting the ceremony and reception sites, the couple needs to make sure that the establishments they choose will welcome their furry friend at the event. Some venues have restrictions on pet attendance. It is also important to plan ahead for the pet’s behavioral needs. Select a trustworthy person to be in charge of the pet, to ensure that he is fed, watered, walked and given appropriate chances to have those much needed bathroom breaks, preferably before the ceremony. Some extra training may be necessary for your pet and the attendant who has been chosen as the guardian.

Signature Grand Weddings

Bellacroft's Baby Shower Favors

2010-11-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

When planning a baby shower, you often begin by selecting a theme, location and guests. Then you quickly realize how you need to plan your menu and begin the planning stages.

If this isn't your first baby shower, then you already know the types of food to serve and what you have in mind. If this IS your first baby shower, the main thing to remember is that the food at a baby shower needs to be easy for the guests to snack on while ‘mingling’. This means small finger foods, snacks such as nuts and potato chips.

A good event incorporates several types of snacks and foods. Remember – not everybody eats meat or fatty items. It’s smart to have a few light, veggie snacks as well. This way everybody is happy!

Although all you really need to get is normal every day party snacks, it is also fun to have a few unique, baby shower foods as well!

Baby Shower Favors

Limit the Open Bar

2010-11-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

ding Favors Jen 5:23 pmEdit This

Many brides and grooms decide NOT to have an open bar because of the cost and the drama that drinking can be associated with. If you're looking for a classy way to allow guests to have a beverage or two, consider themed drink tickets! If you’re having a Hollywood themed wedding (really they go with any bridal scheme). Select from 16 different colors and personalize as desired! Item comes in an 80 count or 120 count – purchase several for your guests!

These tickets coordinate with the Weddingstar Hollywood Couple cake topper – a popular accessory that features a hollywood couple posing together.

Weddingstar Hollywood Themed Drink Tickets

Fun and Unique Cake Toppers by Bellacroft

2010-11-12T09:00:00.001-08:00

Cake toppers generally belong into two different categories " “traditional” and “unique”. Unique cake toppers are often very different an humorous in a way. Recently, brides and grooms have been opting for unique cake toppers that reflect their interests and personalities.

Traditional toppers typically feature figures of the bride and groom but, while some will still have them standing in the customary white wedding dress and black tail coat, nowadays these will often show the bride and groom either in the actual clothes being worn for the wedding or in more casual attire. A perfect example of this might be military wedding cake toppers which can not only show the bride or groom in their correct military uniform, but can even show them with the correct medals and decorations.

These unique cake toppers tend to take on the bride and groom’s personality and will almost always bring a smile to the guests of the wedding!

Unique Cake Toppers

GREEN Wedding Favors by Bellacroft

2010-11-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

r 1, 2010 by Jen

If you're looking to throw a wedding and keep it friendly for the environment, consider a GREEN themed (eco-friendly) wedding ceremony and reception!
Here are a few planning tips and ideas:

First on the agenda is the decor, of course. Rest assured, if you are renting tables and chairs or simply linens, you’re already doing an environmentally friendly service! Any accessories that are rented will be reused, and re-using materials is one of the fundamental aspects of eco-friendly planning.

Recycle the flowers and decor from your ceremony, not only will you decrease your waste but you will save a ton of money at the same time. If you plan ahead of time to re-use your flowers, it will be much simpler to incorporate them into your reception decor, rather than trying to mesh them together last minute.

Bamboo has become an extremely popular addition to weddings. Because it grows up to a foot and half a day in the spring it is usually ready to harvest about four years after planting, much sooner than trees, making it a more ecologically friendly choice. It is stylish and modern, an ideal component of a centerpiece.

GREEN Wedding Favors

Cathy's Concepts Bridal Accessories

2010-10-31T07:10:00.000-07:00

If your looking to turn your rather "average" wedding into an extraordinary special event, turn to Cathy's Concepts. Cathy's Concepts is the manufacturer of personalized gifts and wedding accessories featuring:

Baby
Weddings
Anniversaries
Birthdays
Corporate Events
And more!

Each gift comes with a personal touch that customers just love to add! About Cathy’s Concepts:

Founded in 1988 by Cathy LaValley, Cathy’s Concepts is a privately held company, headquartered out of Indianapolis, Indiana. As a leading wholesaler, manufacturer and distributor of personalized gifts and wedding accessories, Cathy’s Concepts uses innovation as the key motivator to remain atop industry standards and a step ahead of the competition.

What started as a small, wholesale jewelry company serving independent bridal retailers across the U.S. has progressed forward into an internationally recognized brand. In addition to bridal jewelry and accessories, Cathy’s Concepts offers a wide selection of personalized gifts, ceremony and reception essentials, wedding decorations, philanthropic products, invitations and stationery, as well as a full line of fraternity and sorority merchandise.

Cathy’s Concepts Bridal Accessories

Unique Cake Toppers by Arlene Pecora

2010-10-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Years ago, the only cake toppers that were sold to the public were traditional brides and grooms standing hand in hand. These days - the "norm" has altered and brides and grooms are scooping up unique cake toppers!

While the traditional cake topper is still extremely popular (and romantic!), various manufacturers, such as Weddingstar, have come out with a collection of comical, personalized cake toppers that suit individual couples. For example:

The Weddingstar Love Pinch
Gone Fishing
Couch Potato Groom
And more!

These cake toppers bring a smile to the faces of your guests as well as add a touch of your personality to your wedding!

Unique Cake Toppers

Signature Grand Dishes: Wedding Regrets

2010-10-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

Even brides with fairytale weddings can pinpoint few things they wish they could have changed. Even worse, many brides an create an entire check list of things. This list, however, is a vital tool for brides that are planning an upcoming women. Here are a few of the reoccurring themes of brides’ do-over wish lists:

Photography: In the survey, not one bride complained that they ended up with too many photos. On the contrary, they all complained that there weren't ENOUGH photos. Moral of the story? Choose your photographer wisely, and don’t skimp. If you have to, trim your budget in other areas to ensure that you have sufficient funds for a talented, reputable photographer.

Size of Guest List: Think bigger is better? Guess again. Not one bride lamented over not having a larger bash. For brides that did have large weddings, almost all of them wished they’d pared down their guest lists in favor of a more intimate ceremony and reception.

Budget: While most brides felt they did a great job staying on budget, many felt remorse over not spending commensurate with their areas of importance. Ranking high on the “good use of money list” was the ceremony/reception venue, photographs, and videography, while designer wedding gowns, top-shelf alcohol, custom linens, and lavish cocktail hours were sources of expensive regret.

Signature Grand Weddings

Bellacroft Debuts: Cathy's Concepts

2010-09-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

Personalized products turn the average gift into a thoughtful gift! Cathy’s Concepts specializes in personalized gifts for:

Baby
Weddings
Anniversaries
Birthdays
Corporate Events
And more!

Each gift comes with a personal touch that customers just love to add! About Cathy’s Concepts:

Founded in 1988 by Cathy LaValley, Cathy’s Concepts is a privately held company, headquartered out of Indianapolis, Indiana. As a leading wholesaler, manufacturer and distributer of personalized gifts and wedding accessories, Cathy’s Concepts uses innovation as the key motivator to remain atop industry standards and a step ahead of the competition.

Cathy’s Concepts Personalized Products

Wedding Cake Charms at York & White

2010-09-20T11:23:00.001-07:00

The charm cake is an old Victorian tradition which is very charming, indeed! During the wedding (or bridal shower, etc), each guest pulls one ribbon from the center of a cake (traditionally bundt cake) to find a good-luck charm and sweet message dangling from the other end. Charms can be purchased in various themes/styles and can be customized with additional notes and colored ribbons. The old tale states that each charm fortells the recipient’s future! Various popular charms include a coin (for luck), an airplane (for travel), and a telephone (for a special phone call). To assemble, bake your favorite cake, put the charms in the center, and drape the ribbons over the cake; fresh flowers provide decoration while hiding the charms.

Beverly Clark Wedding Cake Charms

York & White Calla Lily Wedding Planning

2010-07-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

While roses are the top selection for weddings, calla lilies are becoming a close second. Calla Lily’s represent romance and sophistication which is why many brides and grooms are choosing this theme for their wedding. York & White features a wide variety of Calla Lily decorations and favors that will fit perfectly with this theme. Favors and decor from:

Kate Askep
Weddingstar
Fashioncraft
Cassiani
Beverly Clark
Hortense B Hewitt
And more!

Calla Lily weddings are a great way to celebrate spring weddings as they are light and floral. Receive free shipping on orders over $75!

Calla Lily Wedding Favors

Arlene Pecora's Corporate Party Favor Ideas

2010-07-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

Corporate events/parties are the main activities in business today. These days, large and small companies host corporate parties to launch new products or services or to declare a new acquisition or to just give its employees a chance to enjoy.

These events should be treated as any other party, therefore party favors have become a common addition. Corporate events have a tendency to be slightly boring so if you are planning to coordinate a business party your first aim should be to make it as much fun as possible. This means that you should coordinate good food, games and entertainment to keep the party or event lively.

The most thoughtful and popular gift that you can give your employees are personalized gifts. This option might not be possible everywhere but is a nice thought if you're able to.

Electronic items such as portable DVD players are also very popular among these parties along with caps, T-shirts etc. Many businesses give away pens, desk clocks, items that are useful during the work experience but also fun to receive.

Business card holders filled with new business cards are a great gift idea and actually serve as promotion/advertising for the company. These can be personalized individually or with company names and logos.

Corporate Event Etiquette

Signature Grand's Guide to Bridal Planning While Expecting

2010-06-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

Traditionally, the wedding comes before the baby, but these days, many people do things in the reverse order. It is not uncommon for a bride to say “I do” while expecting and incorporate her growing belly into her wedding! Being a pregnant bride does not carry anywhere near the stigma that it once did.

More and more couples these days are deciding that a traditional wedding is right for them, even during pregnancy. Since traditional weddings take time to plan, the bride will likely be showing by the time of the wedding ceremony. There are many maternity options when it comes to the bride's wedding gown. Nicole Michelle Maternity features maternity wedding gowns that are comfortable and beautiful, perfect for any wedding day.

Other than that, your wedding planning can resume as any other ceremony! There are various cake toppers available that poke fun at your growing belly. One popular choice is the Weddingstar expecting bride cake topper.

Signature Grand Weddings

Baby Shower Games 101 by Bellacroft

2010-06-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

Baby showers are a fun way for women (and men!) to get together and have a great time in celebrating the upcoming birth of a little baby. These showers are generally filled with food, gifts and GAMES! Here are a few great baby shower games:

Guess the candy bar! This is a yucky-yet fun filled game! Fill 8 numbered diapers with a unique candy bar. Melt the bar in the microwave for a few seconds so that it is melted. Each guest has to guess the candy bar correctly by sight and scent only!

What's in your purse? Each guest is given a check list of random items that can be carried in a woman's purse. The person with the most items wins!

How do you spell baby shower? Each guest has to create a unique list of words formed with the letters in "baby shower". Time this game so that the person with the most words in 60 seconds wins!

Peas and Carrots? Remove the label from 10 jars of numbered baby food jars. Each guest has to guess based on COLOR ONLY. No scent or taste!

Bellacroft Baby Shower Favors

Love Letter Ceremony

2010-06-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

Joining the list of popular wedding ceremonies is the Love Letter Ceremony. Here is how it works:
Prior to the wedding, the bride and groom each write each other a love letter. This letter should incorporate your current feelings, how you met, why you fell in love, etc. It can also describe hopes and wishes for the future.
During the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom each put their love letters in a "Love Letter Ceremony" box which also features wine goblets, a bottle of wine and other memorable keepsakes. The couple vows not to open the box until a pre-determined date (usually an anniversary)

This is a beautiful ceremony that provides a memory that will last forever as well as a great way to celebrate an anniversary!

Love Letter Ceremony

Bellacroft Wedding Reception Accessories

2010-06-01T11:13:00.001-07:00

A wedding reception is a traditional party which is generally held after the completion of a marriage ceremony. It is held as “thank-you” gesture for those who have attended the wedding, hence the name reception: the couple receives society, in the form of family and friends, for the first time as a married couple. Hosts provide their choice of food and drink, although a wedding cake is popular. Entertaining guests after a wedding ceremony is traditional in most societies, and can continue on anywhere from half an hour to many hours. Generally, receptions include:

Wedding Toast
Dinner
Cake cutting ceremony
Dancing
Garter Toss
And more!

Wedding Reception Accessories

Arlene Pecora: Advice on Wedding Tips

2010-05-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

Many brides plan a detailed budget for their wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon. After contacting their local DJ's, Limo Drivers, Caterers, Florists, etc, they have a general idea of how much they will spend for each. Unfortunately, brides and grooms often overlook the aspect of "tipping" which will greatly affect your bridal budget. Tipping is, however, a customary gesture and you want to make sure that you have allocated enough money for each vendor.

Appropriate tip amounts will vary depending on the quality of service provided, but the following guidelines are the customary ranges for wedding gratuities:

Hairstylists and Makeup Artists: Just as you would at the salon, tipping at least 15-20% for good service is expected.
Musicians and DJs: If you hired performers without the help of an entertainment agency, it's customary to tip each band member or singer $20-25, and DJs $25-100 each. Tips will often be included in an agency's contract, but a "service charge" is not a gratuity – it goes to the company, rather than the entertainers themselves, and you may have to tip in addition. When in doubt, always ask.
Catering Staff: Plan to tip 15-20% of the total catering bill, to be divided among all servers and catering staff.
Bartenders: Give at least 15-25% of the total liquor bill, given to the head bartender to be divided among his or her staff.
Photographers, Videographers, Florists, Cake Decorators: If your photographer and other wedding vendors own their own businesses, tipping is neither required nor expected. But if they work as an employee of a company, be prepared to give $30-50 to each as a gratuity.
Officiants: A priest, rabbi, or other religious officiant usually won't accept a tip, but it's considerate to donate at least $75-100 to their organization or place of worship. State officiants and civil employees are not allowed to receive cash tips.
Wedding Planners: Tip at least $75-100, and up to $500.
Chauffeurs or Limo Drivers: Plan to show your appreciation with 15-20% of the total bill.
Valets, Restroom Attendants, Coat Check Attendants: Tip $1-2 per car (valets) or per guest, to be divided among all attendants.

Signature Grand Weddings

Signature Grand Wedding Planning

2010-05-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

Planning a wedding can take hours upon hours of coordinating, scheduling, pricing and more. Luckily, Signature Grand Weddings helps take some of the stress out of wedding planning, so that brides and grooms can find some relaxation during the process. Here are a few of the articles that Signature Grand Weddings Features:

Budget Wedding Planning: Planning a wedding on a budget does not mean sacrificing your ultimate bridal dreams. Keep it simple and you'll be able to say "I Do" as you have always desired!

Plan with your Groom: We know that brides generally take over the planning, but involve the groom! This special wedding planning will help bond and create the dream that you BOTH have always wanted!

Love Letter Ceremony: Small, intimate ceremonies have become common during the actual wedding ceremony. Signature Grand Weddings recommends the Love Letter Ceremony in which the bride and groom enclose private love letters in a signature box and seal it away for a later date!

Signature Grand Weddings

Prepare for Your Honeymoon with TravelPro Luggage Outlet

2010-05-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Planning a vacation, especially a honeymoon, requires dedication and resources. Your honeymoon, after all, is the celebration of your new vows! Regardless of your method of travel, whether by plane, boat, train or car, you will need quality, durable luggage.

TravelPro Luggage Outlet has a few travel tips for the newly-wed honeymooners:

Use luggage tags: Even if you're taking a car, your luggage is at risk of being lost in the hotel/transit. Be safe and select bright, colorful luggage tags.

Brush up on luggage restrictions: If you're flying (or cruising), there might be restrictions on your luggage size and weight. Be sure to check the baggage restrictions to ensure luggage safety. Excessive baggage can be quite costly.

Opt for bright, colorful luggage: This helps your luggage stand out in a crowd!

Discount Luggage

Coed Baby Showers

2010-05-24T10:34:00.000-07:00

Co-ed baby showers are showers that both men and women are invited to. This is in contrast to the more traditional women-only shower.

This might seem like an easy event to plan, however, now you have another party to plan around, the daddy. This event might not be all about frills and cookie cutters now. The event planner has to add activities and decor for the daddy as well. The idea is to provide the men with a comfort zone, and a barbecue is ideal for that.

Just because you opt for a BBQ does not mean that they men must stay outside and tend to the food. Encourage them to come inside and take part in the baby shower! A great game idea is "Couple Jeopardy". For this, each team consists of a man and a woman. Each team member takes a turn at going out of the room while the other is asked 5 questions about their partner. Once all 5 questions are answered, the other partner returns to the room and is asked the same questions. This game generally breaks the ice and creates a ton of laughter, perfect to break the ice for a co-ed shower!

If you have planned enough games and good to keep both men and women occupied, your co-ed baby shower will go off without any issues! Make sure that all guests have something to look forward to and something great to remember about you coed baby shower, and you will have a success on your hands.

Baby Shower Favors

Including Children in Your Wedding

2010-05-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

I applaud any couple that chooses to incorporate children into a wedding ceremony/reception. While there are many couples that still opt for "child-free" weddings, there are many benefits to allowing and incorporating children.

If there are children in your ceremony, there are several "duties" that they can perform which are symbolic and meaningful. Of course, there are the traditional ring bearers and flower girls. There are also ceremonies such as the Unity Sand Ceremony which allows children to pour sand into the center vase with the bride and groom. These are great photo opportunities for the entire family.

For your reception, I recommend adding "children stations" around the room. Small activities such as coloring or even outdoor activities will keep children happy and occupied all evening (or morning - whichever you prefer!)

Child Friendly Weddings by Signature Grand

Honeymoon Planning Basics by TravelPro

2010-05-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

Honeymoon planning is often one of the most fun aspects of getting married! Here are a few honeymoon planning tips for the newlywed couple!

1. Ask for help. While planning a short vacation is something that "anybody" can do, you might need the help of a travel agent for your honeymoon planning. If not, ask around. Friends and family members that have been on romantic getaways might have a ton of insight on wedding planning! Ask for brochures and scan the web. You're bound to come up with some great honeymoon ideas.

2. Look at your personal interests. When you think of "relaxation", what is the first thing that comes to mind? Beaches? Mountains? Italy? Start by asking yourself these questions to narrow down your ultimate honeymoon destination. Don't forget your groom! Be sure to ask him the same questions so that he isn't stuck on a desert island when he really dreamed of climbing a volcano!

3. There's a reason for the season. You have to triple check the season of your honeymoon. Romantic beaches in the middle of December aren't exactly ideal! What month do you plan on taking this trip and will the weather/climate be perfect?

Once you select your ultimate honeymoon destination, you will need to purchase quality, upright luggage. Whether your travel is by plane, boat, train or car, luggage accessories such as travel locks and luggage tags are also a necessity. Begin the honeymoon process by selecting luggage and creating a packing list!

Upright Luggage by TravelPro

Say "I Do" Vegas Style!

2010-05-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

If you can't say your vows in Vegas, bring Vegas to you! The Las Vegas wedding theme is extremely popular as it is versatile and FUN! With various wedding decor and favor options available, the possibilities are virtually endless!

Las Vegas Tip #1 - Include the games! Set up poker and slot tables around your reception. Guests will have a blast - whether you play for real money or fake!
Las Vegas Tip #2 - Incorporate Vegas themed favors. They can be personalized as desired and guests will have a memorable keepsake to bring home!
Las Vegas Tip #3 - BUFFETS! Las Vegas is known for it's buffet style dinners - so incorporate that into your wedding! Brides and grooms often find they save money on buffet style dining and guests will enjoy the variety!

Las Vegas Wedding Favors

Signature Grand Weddings: Tips for the Perfect Wedding Dress Fitting

2010-05-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Trying on a wedding dress and instantly having it fit is a miracle. No. Seriously, it's close to it! Almost all brides-to-be encounter fitting issues when trying on wedding dresses. While this is not a big deal, the hassle of alteration after alteration can be time consuming and costly. Here are a few tips to help enjoy a smooth fitting session for your wedding gown:

Choose a dress that naturally flatters your figure. You might have one certain style in your mind - but it might not look so flattering on your body. Women come in all different shapes and sizes, and luckily- so do wedding dresses! Signature Grand Wedding Tip: A-line dresses flatter fuller hips and pear-shaped body types, while drop waist dresses and princess-line cuts are best for fuller waists.

Start with a dress in your size (or very close to it). While it’s possible to size a dress up or down, making drastic changes either way can yield disappointing results. Dresses that are much too big will need to be re-cut in order to hang properly on the body, and dresses that are too snug may not have enough of a seam allowance to be let out – and, with fabrics like satin or velvet, there’s a t endency for the original stitching to show. It’s generally easier to take in a dress than let it out, so if you’re not the same size all over, buy the size that fits the largest part of your body and have the rest taken in.

Signature Grand Weddings

Fun Baby Shower Games

2010-05-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

Baby Showers are a great way to celebrate the birth of a new life and enjoy your friends and family. If you have been put in charge of the "games" portion, don't fret. Bellacroft has a list of fun games that will get the entire crowd going!

Measured in TP
Pass each guest a roll of toilet paper. Each guest counts the number of squares she believes would be necessary for the two ends to meet around the expectant mother’s tummy and then tears off her length. After every person has guessed, they wrap their share around the expectant tummy to see who is closest. Many people find this to be a humorous game - sometimes the mommy doesn't think so!

Who is the Baby in the Photo?
Have each guest bring a photo of herself from when she was a baby. Tape the baby pictures onto a piece of poster board and assign a number to each photo. Have the guests try to guess the baby pictures which go with the adults present. The guesser with the most correct matches wins a prize.

Guessing game and variations
Place 8-10 small baby items (pacifier, diaper pins, baby spoon, etc.) in a paper bag. Pass the bag around to each guest and let them get a good look. Then have everyone try to name as many of the items they saw in the bag as they can. Once everyone is done with their lists the items are dumped out of the bag and the guesses are tallied. The winner is the guest with the best recollection of the items.

Baby Shower Favors

Flower Advice for Wedding Planning

2010-05-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

Flowers are a huge part of wedding planning. Here are a few ideas for flowers in your wedding:
Bouquet: select flowers with colors that coordinate with your wedding theme or color scheme. Utilize a tussy mussy with your bouquet - a unique way of displaying your bridal bouquet.
Flower Arrangements: Opt for unique flowers - creating a beautiful floral display. Try lilies or other flowers which will make a statement.
Flower Petals: scatter flower petals around the room which create a romantic element.

York & White features bridal decor and elements for the modern day bride!

Wedding Essentials

Bellacroft: Something Blue!

2010-03-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

There is an old saying for any bridal ceremony: "Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue”. This popular rhyme has been dated back to the Victorian ages. "Something old" represents the ties to the bride's family and her old "single" life; "something new" signifies the couple's new life together and their future hope for happiness, prosperity and success; "something borrowed" from a happily married woman is meant to symbolize similar happiness to the bride; and "something blue" represents fidelity and constancy.

Weddingstar's "Something Blue" Accessories

2010-03-05T12:56:00.000-08:00

Signature Grand and Arlene Pecora present the ultimate bridal and quince show experience…Sample delicious food from our elaborate buffet stations while enjoying a glass of champagne or the latest cocktail from one of the many open bars. Browse through South Florida's finest bridal vendors:

Florists
Dance Instructors
Musicians
DJ's
Limo Drivers
Caterers
Chef's
And more!

Signature Grand's Bridal and Quince Show is hosted at their lavish event catering hall. Large enough to host events with 1,000 guests, this Renaissance Themed hotel is a grand way to celebrate any special event

Arlene Pecora

Signature Grand's Bridal and Quince Show

2010-02-15T12:47:00.000-08:00

South Florida is the country's famous "hot spot" for wedding ceremonies and reception. This is because of the beautiful, warm weather and atmosphere! Because of this, Signature Grand is proud to present their annual Bridal and Quince Show.
This event features delicious cuisine and beverages while meeting South Florida's finest:

DJ's
Limo Drivers
Caterers
Florists
Dance Instructors
Wedding Planners
Bartenders
And more!

Signature Grand's lavish Renaissance Theme is a huge attraction for brides and grooms. With the ability to host any size wedding, Signature Grand is the prime bridal location in South Florida. With a staff that aims to please, Signature Grand receives rave reviews!

Signature Grand

Ian Ziering Engaged - Wedding Planning Tips!

2010-02-11T08:19:00.000-08:00

Actor Ian Ziering recently announced on his Facebook that he is engaged! The actor, best known for his role as Steve on Beverly Hills 90210, is also well known for his stint on Dancing with the Stars! York & White thinks a great cake topper for this celebrity is the Western Embrace cake topper by Weddingstar. This handpainted cake topper features a couple dancing in the night - perfect for the dancing theme!

Weddingstar Cake Topper

Arlene Pecora and Signature Grand Recommend Anmar Party Magazine

2010-02-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

Wedding planning is a time-consuming process that requires hours of planning and researching. This is why Signature Grand and Arlene Pecora recommend Anmar Party Magazine! For Anmar Party Magazine, the fact that the celebration of special events (Fifteen Birthday Celebrations, Weddings or any other) be carried with the greatest quality, has always had enormous importance, leaving in the guests of honor, family and friends, a lasting memory. Anmar considers that the quality of our work is our granite of sand to make this a reality.

Meet with Anmar Party Magazine at the Bridal and Quince Show in April 2010!

Location:
6900 State Road 84, Davie, FL 33317
954-424-4000

Arlene Pecora

Carrie Underwood's Wedding Planning Ideas!

2010-02-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

Carrie Underwood announced that she just wants to have fun at her wedding! York & White recommends Weddingstar's Miniature cow candles! These fun little accessories play a parody of the Country Singer's occupation and are down-right adorable! Featuring a barn enclosure, Weddingstar didn't stop at the details! Mike Fisher's southern belle will have an old-fashioned barn raising!

Weddingstar Wedding Favors

Bridal Summer Themes

2010-01-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

Many brides plan ahead for their upcoming vows - so start planning those summer weddings now! The famous York & White has several collections that would make any summer wedding perfect! Flip Flops are a great way to celebrate summer weddings as they are bright and colorful! These fashionable accessories also make for perfect beach weddings - completing the tropical scene!

Flip-Flop Wedding Accessories

Arlene Pecora's South Florida Wedding Location

2010-01-19T08:07:00.000-08:00

Wedding planning in South Florida is extremely popular due to the warm weather and tropical climate. This is why Signature Grand, located in sunny south Florida, is the prime wedding location. With a Renaissance themed ambiance, Signature Grand is known for their annual Bridal and Quince Show which features hundreds of bridal vendors all under one roof!

Signature Grand has the space to host events up to 10,000 guests - featuring delicious cuisine and an accommodating staff.

Although the salmon-colored, Spanish-style mansion is rooted in 19th-century designs, the Signature Grand was actually built in the 1990s. It quickly became one of the region's most popular venues for formal dinners, parties, wedding receptions, awards ceremonies, and fundraisers. Over the years, dozens of notable public figures and celebrities, including Elton John, George W. Bush, Janet Reno, and Jose Canseco, have dined and celebrated there.

Arlene Pecora's Signature Grand

Arlene Pecora Hosts 2010 Bridal and Quince Show

2010-01-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

Event: 2010 Bridal and Quince Show
Hosted by: Arlene Pecora and Signature Grand
Where: Signature Grand in Davie, Florida
Time: 6pm-9pm
Date: January 26th, 2010
Advanced Ticket Purchase: $22
Ticket Price at Door: $30
Contact: 954-424-4000

South Florida has thousands of bridal vendors to choose from which makes planning a wedding quite difficult. Whether you are hosting a huge wedding or exchanging quiet vows, you want to make sure that you select companies that will help make this the day of your dreams. Fortunately, Florida brides-to-be don’t have to spend hours surfing the Internet or driving all over town to collect prices, samples, and information. At the annual Private Bridal and Quince Show, all of the best local wedding professionals gather under one roof, making it easy for brides and grooms to make informed decisions about every aspect of their special day.

This event will feature south Florida's finest floral designers, musicians, DJs, photographers, limousine services, stationery artists, and much more. They’ll also have the chance to preview the season’s most beautiful designer wedding gowns and formal attire. For the ultimate in gourmet refreshment, attendees can sample delicious menu items from elaborate buffet stations and enjoy fine champagne or cocktails from the open bars.

Signature Grand

Business and Corporate Event Gift Ideas

2010-01-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

Business and corporate events have the reputation of being dull and boring. This is why, whether you are celebrating employees or discussing business, there needs to be a few perks involved. A gift that can be personalized with names, sentiments or logos is a great idea for a corporate gift. Rockwell Industry features many corporate and business gifts that can be personalized and used on desks or in cubicles.

Personalized Card and Pen Holder Clock

Unique Bridal Place Settings

2010-01-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

Brides and grooms are constantly trying to find an alternative to traditional place settings. Rockwell Industry's Crystal Photo Frame is a unique alternative that can be personalized and fitted with any unique photo.

Crystal Photo Frame

Anniversary Party Planning Ideas

2010-01-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

Your anniversary is a time to remember your vows and ceremony! If your 50th anniversary is coming up, plan on celebrating in style. Here is an exclusive checklist by York & White:

Guests - Invite your close friends and family
Theme - Select a theme that coordinates with your taste and interests
Food - Appetizers or Entrees? Get into it!
Music - Dancing will keep guests occupied and happy!
Games - This will keep people entertained

York & White features specialized anniversary:

Goblets
Guest Books
Favors
Decorations
And more!

Anniversary Party Planning

Khloe Kardashian's Wedding Favors - Great Ideas!

2009-12-30T10:43:00.000-08:00

Khloe Kardashian married Lamar Odom in September 2009, but that isn't stopping us from creating great wedding ideas for their wedding! Weddingstar's Basketball Gumball machines would have been a great, cute idea for the guests! (Odom is a well-known Lakers Basketball Player)!

Keeping up with the Kardashian's elegant theme was important, however these cute favors would have added a little humor and a touch for the groom!

Weddingstar's Basketball Gumball Machines

Unique Honeymoon Ideas and Locations

2009-12-29T05:43:00.000-08:00

Whether you want your honeymoon to be in the frosty Alps, or a sunny beach, there are always various locations that can appeal to your desires. Brides and grooms spend months researching their favorite honeymoon destination and planning out all of the romantic details. This planning is not-for-nothing. It is incredibly necessary! Luckily, with a little help, the honeymoon planning can be a fun time for brides and grooms to collaborate on their special trip.

One exciting highlight when getting married is coming up with romantic honeymoon ideas. When you are preparing your wedding you should plan your honeymoon as well. Be sure to make your honeymoon plans as far ahead as possible in order to save money and experience the honeymoon of your dreams.

It doesn't matter if you plan to do any site seeing or if you plan to spend lots of intimate time in your honeymoon suite, as long as you are together. This article will highlight some romantic honeymoon ideas that are sure to appeal to most newly weds.

• Honeymoon Cruises

Taking a cruise to Alaska or Jamaica can be the perfect way to start your life together. What can be more romantic than sailing from port to port with your new spouse and enjoying the luxuries on board your floating hotel. Honeymoon cruises are among the most romantic honeymoon ideas available. More and ore newly weds are choosing to celebrate their new life together by going on a honeymoon cruise. Cruises are so much fun because everything is taken care of a head of time. The boats have work out rooms, swimming pools, and many other things for you to do as a couple.

• Honeymoon Resorts

Adults only all-inclusive honeymoon resorts in the Caribbean and Cancun can be perfect. They are all-inclusive and cater to adults only. How about spa massages for two? That is one of many romantic honeymoon ideas that may appeal to you and your spouse-to-be? Plus you can go swimming when you want or take a romantic walk on the beach at sunset.

Honeymoon Ideas and Locations

What is the Bridal and Quince Show in Davie Florida?

2009-12-28T08:59:00.000-08:00

The Bridal and Quince Show is an event, hosted by Signature Grand, several times a year that encourages wedding planners, brides and grooms to host the weddings of their dreams! Featuring:

DJ's
Wedding Planners
Limo Drivers
Caterers
Florists
And more!

Signature Grand also features live music, dancing, buffets and an open bar for it's guests as they meet and greet with South Florida's finest event planners.

More:
Largely due to her dedication and expertise, the facility has gained a stellar reputation as one of South Florida's premier catering and reception facilities, once generating up to $10 million in annual

Bridal and Quince Show!

Arlene Pecora Recommends Child-Friendly Weddings!

2009-12-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

Weddings are often quiet and serene - so there shouldn't be any children involved right?? WRONG!! Arlene Pecora advises brides and grooms to allow their favorite children to the wedding and let them participate in the activities! There are various ways to keep young ones entertained and occupied during a wedding. After all, they're part of the family (or close friends) right?

Skip the regular table-cloth and ask your local butcher for a roll of sturdy paper. Giving children Crayons or markers with their place setting will keep them busy for hours and provide your with a great keepsake after they are finished "designing"

For centerpieces at a kid friendly wedding, look to fun and easy games, that will keep young and old hands alike busy. Games like Hungry Hippo, Jenga, or Kerplunk, act as creative centerpieces that also can keep kids happy while they await for their food.

Signature Grand Bridal Ideas

Baby Shower Games

2009-12-18T07:57:00.000-08:00

1) Guess the Belly Size!

Materials- String or yarn and scissors

Have each woman pull the yarn to the size they believe would fit perfectly around the Mother-To-Be's center of her pregnant tummy. After everyone cuts their string, compare the results to the Mommy-To-Be's actual tummy. Give a prize to the woman who is the most close!

2) Don't say Baby!

Materials- baby safety pins or another type of baby object you can place on a string for each woman at the party as well as string or yarn, enough for each woman to wear as a necklace

Have each woman place the necklace with the baby safety pins around her neck when she gets to the party. The rules for this baby shower game are given out at the beginning of the baby shower that whenever someone says the word "baby" during the shower, any woman who calls it out gets a pin from the other woman who stated the word. At the end of the baby shower, the woman with the most pins wins a prize.

Baby Shower Favors

Beach Wedding Favors

2009-12-17T10:03:00.000-08:00

When considering beach wedding favor ideas, look for something that exudes romance and festivity. If your sand ceremony and reception will have a beach theme, some popular ideas include:

Seashells engraved with your wedding date
Candles decorated with seashells
Decorative hand-held fans
Miniature sailboats with the wedding information printed on the sail
Place card holders and placemats
Water bottles with personalized labels
Miniature sand castles
Hand painted replica lighthouses
Nautical picture frames
Small vases with samples of sand from the sand ceremony
Glass bottles with scrolls inside printed with the wedding date
Personalized beach totes
Engraved champagne flutes and cake knives
Personalized beach pails, flip flops, or beach balls

The beach wedding favor you choose should reflect the type of event you’re planning. For a more formal beach wedding, an elegant taper candle or silver keychain is suitable, while the whimsical favor ideas are appropriate for more casual, laid-back events.

Beach Wedding Favors

Winter Wedding Ideas!

2009-12-15T08:37:00.000-08:00

: Weddingstar Miniature Winter Snowglobes

Spring time has always been the most popular time of year to plan your wedding. The theory behind this is the green grass, warm weather and growing flowers. These days, however, more couples are finding joy with having a winter wedding. There may be uncertain weather conditions but these couples have received in return savings on wedding essentials and avoidance of the long line-ups for services.

Winter Wedding Benefits Include:

Wedding venues are more readily available and far less expensive (Christmas and Valentine dates not withstanding).
Your photographs will portray a winter wonderland.
More luxurious palette of colors and fabrics to choose from such as varying shades of red, royal blue, deep purple and hunter green.
Ability to plan on short notice, without being told that your vendor, disc jockey, photographer or caterer of choice is booked solid.
Flowers that don't wilt in the heat (as long as you take care not to let them freeze in the cold)
Cakes that don't sag, and makeup that doesn't melt.
Better chance that more of your invited guests will not be on holidays and therefore able to attend your wedding.

An enchanting cozy ambiance can easily be created at a rustic mountain lodge with roaring fireplaces, sleigh rides, and a host of other winter-loving amenities. For a winter wonderland effect, choose a grand ballroom with draped fabric walls filled with white, silver and crystal twinkling lights.

For wedding accessories, decorations, and favors, winter weddings offer a host of snowflake themed items in various shades of blue, white and silver. Tiny candy holding mittens for favors, snowflake jeweled garter, miniture snowglobes or winter place cards, all add to a fantasy themed setting.

Signature Grand's Event Catering Hall in South Florida

2009-12-11T09:08:00.000-08:00

Whether you are planning a wedding, baby shower, corporate event or birthday party, Signature Grand can help you exceed your event planning dreams.
With a Renaissance themed style, this grand location can host events that range from 10 guests to 2,400 guests.
Since 1996, Signature Grand has taken pride in being South Florida's premier bridal location offering resources for:

DJ's
Caterers
Florists
Limo Drivers
And more!

Every year, Signature Grand hosts their semi-annual Bridal and Quince Show. This event attracts many brides, grooms and event planners. Inspiring guests to throw the event of their dreams is Signature Grand's mission!

Signature Grand

Arlene Pecora to Host 2010 Bridal and Quince Show

2009-12-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

The time has come again for Arlene Pecora and Signature Grand to transform their Renaissance catering hall into a huge bridal affair! Brides, grooms and event planners from around the country will be attending this event.

Where: Signature Grand
When: January 26th, 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

The Bridal and Quince show features the opportunity to to meet with South Florida's finest:

Caterers
DJ's
Limo Drivers
Wedding Planners
Cake Decorators
Florists
And more!

Plan your entire wedding in one evening while also sampling fine foods and wines.

Arlene Pecora

7 Steps to Planning a Baby Shower

2009-12-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

Planning a baby shower is a fun time! Whether you are the mother-to-be or you are the designated party thrower, these helpful tips will give you the opportunity to create the baby shower that you dreamed of!

1) 3 W's: Who, What, Where. The "What" is pretty basic. Figure out who is invited and where the shower will be held and you are on your way to throwing this bash!

2) Create a list - All of the little planning details might seem "small" but they can get lost in translation without a detailed list!

3) Select the Theme - Whether it is a boy, girl or surprise, there are millions of themes to select from!

4) Plan the Guest List - Create a guest list that will be helpful in establishing who RSVP's and how many people plan on attending. This also helps you plan the menu as well as the favor count.

5) Create the menu - Your menu can be a meal or just a few snacks that can coordinate with your chosen theme!

6) Party Favors - This is the fun part! Begin mixing and matching your party favors and gifts!

7) The Grand Finale - A little speech or game to end the party is best so that guests know when the party is actually over!

Baby Shower Favors

History of the Wedding Handkerchief

2009-12-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

The wedding handkerchief is generally passed down from mother to daughter and from generation to generation. This tradition has been dated back to the early farmers that believed a bride's wedding tears were "lucky" and brought rain for their crops. This belief transformed into the idea that the bride's tears meant that she would never cry another tear through her marriage. These days, women carry a handkerchief to dab away the tears of happiness and joy.
There are various forms of bridal handkerchiefs for:

Brides
Aunts
Mothers
Grandmothers
Sisters
Cousins
Etc.

Bridal Handkerchiefs

History of the Flower Girl

2009-12-03T11:01:00.000-08:00

A flower girl is a member in the wedding ceremony. Like ring bearers and page boys, flower girls are usually members of the bride's or groom's extended family, but may also be friends.

Generally, the flower girl walks in front of the bride during the ceremony. Flower girls traditionally spread flower petals before the bride. If the ceremony will not be particularly long, an older child may prefer to quietly stand at the altar with the other honor attendants.

The typical age for a flower girl is between 4 and 8 years of age. Many younger flower girls are "nervous" and might not perform their duties.

There may be more than one flower girl, particularly if the bride has several young relatives to honor.

Flower Baskets

Baby Shower Game - Ideas and Inspiration

2009-11-30T06:40:00.000-08:00

Baby Showers are a time for women to gather and have a great time while celebrating a little baby on the way! Generally, the person throwing the shower is the one in charge of planning favors, food and games.
Baby Shower games are the main center of "fun" at the baby shower (besides the food and gifts, of course!) Here is a great idea for a baby shower game that will keep guests entertained for hours and even leave a few with gifts!!

What you'll need:

5-7 Gifts
A pair of Dice
Timer (or watch)

Here's what you do:
Wrap your gifts in unusual packages or bags. Begin by selecting one person to roll the dice. Each person that rolls doubles gets to select a gift. After all of the gifts are taken, the players begin to "steal" gifts, selecting gifts that have already been taken from another player. When the time is up, players win the gifts that they have in their possession.
Fun idea - Wrap a few "fun" gifts as well as a few gag gifts. Guests will have a real laugh if they have been fighting over toilet paper the entire time!

Baby Shower Favors

Affordable Bridal Photos

2009-11-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

You might have hit a roadblock of you are trying to plan your wedding on a budget. Professional photographers can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Here is a unique idea:
Place bridal disposable cameras on every table during your reception and let your guests play photographer! These photos generally turn out fun and inspirational!
Have a "wedding photo" viewing after the party so your guests can see the photos that you took! These cameras come in a white fashion that can accessorize with any wedding theme.

Weddingstar Disposable Wedding Camera

50th Anniversary Traditions

2009-11-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

While each anniversary is a great milestone, the 50th anniversary is among the most celebrated milestone anniversary as this special date symbolizes a couple being married for half a century. Some traditions from the beginning of anniversary celebrations are still used today, but others have changed and new ones have been adapted. Either way, celebrating a 50th anniversary of your own, or a loved one, is a memorable occasion.

Traditional Gift: Gold

50th Anniversary Favors

Planning a Wedding - South Florida Resources

2009-11-17T05:01:00.000-08:00

South Florida is a prime bridal location due to the beautiful weather and the incredible amount of bridal resources. If you have ever planned a wedding on your own, you know that the amount of time and energy put into this event is phenomenal. This is why Arlene Pecora and Signature host their semi-annual Bridal and Quince Show! This event features:

Live Music
Hot Buffet
Cold Buffet
Dessert Station
Open Bar

With special Meet and Greets with South Florida's leading:

Florists
DJ's
Dance Instructors
Wedding Planners
Bridal Designers
Caterers
Limo Drivers

Attending this event will inspire you to plan your entire wedding - from start to finish - with no stress!

Arlene Pecora

Host a Wedding Decorating Party

2009-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

Decorating for your wedding don't have to seem like a chore. If you aren't hiring professionals to decorate your ceremony and reception, take matters into your own hands and make it a party! Gather all of your decor and invite friends and family. Each guest can bring a dish and music can be played. Guests can also play fun wedding games or other activities to create an enjoyable evening. Take pictures of this event to include in your wedding album!

Wedding Decorations

Unity Candle Lighting Ceremony

2009-11-10T10:04:00.000-08:00

The unity candle ceremony is a recent addition to the traditional wedding ceremony. Widely popular in the United States, this special ceremony features two taper candles with a large pillar (called the Unity Candle) in the center. Each taper represents the couple, and the center candle represents their combined lives together. During the ceremony, the bride and groom each light their candle and use those flames to ignite the unity candle.

Often times couple will write their own vows, reciting their sentiments during the ceremony. Other effects such as music, silence, etc.

Unity Candle Ceremony

What is a Grooms Cake?

2009-11-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

The tradition of the grooms cake has been making a huge comeback. These cakes, often a surprise to the groom, are usually served next to the brides cake. These cakes tend to reflect the interest or hobbies of the groom.
Tradition has it that a single slice of this cake is supposed to be put under the single female's pillow in order to bring "good luck" in the romance department. Whether this is done or not, each guest takes home a piece of grooms cake.

Cake Toppers

Signature Grand Tips on Planning a Kid-Friendly Wedding

2009-11-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

Here is a great article on planning a kid-friendly wedding. Many couples choose to have a "strictly adult" wedding to keep it quiet and serene. Other couples enjoy the children around as they are part of the family and should share in the festivities. After all, most ring bearers and flower girls are children!

This article features many ideas to keep the children happy during your ceremony and reception. Not only will you find that your favorite little ones are occupies, they will also be busy creating keepsakes for your special day. Ideas such as paper tablecloths and crayons as well as customized piggy banks will serve to keep little hands busy for hours while decorating a personalized keepsake as well!

If you are having an outdoor ceremony or reception, incorporate items such as wedding frisbees and bubbles to keep those tiny tots occupied.

Kid Friendly Weddings

Wedding Planning - Decorating Your Car

2009-10-26T09:57:00.000-07:00

Brides love planning their wedding. The ceremony, reception, favors. Each requires detail and thought. What about the car?
A fun idea is to incorporate your groom in this planning! Decorating a car for the final "Goodbye" of the wedding is one of the most overlooked aspects of decorating your wedding. Here are some fun things to do:

Decorate the rear - Many couples decorate with streamers, stickers
Decorate the windows - Many sites have wedding window clings that can actually coordinate with the overall wedding theme as well!

Even if you decide to order a limo, most companies will allow decorations as long as they are easy and clean to remove (such as window clings)

Wedding Window Clings

Arlene Pecora - How to Plan a South Florida Wedding

2009-10-21T06:44:00.000-07:00

Planning your wedding requires many local resources - and South Florida certainly has a ton of them. How do you find the best of the best? Simple! Attend a bridal show! These shows offer all of your local:

DJ's
Limo Drivers
Caterers
Florists
Fashion Designers
Wedding Planners
And more!

Not only will you fill your minds with ideas, you will also fill your bellies with delicious food and wine.

From Arlene Pecora: Signature Grand presents the ultimate bridal and quince show experience…Sample delicious food from our elaborate buffet stations while enjoying a glass of champagne or the latest cocktail from one of the many open bars. Our floral designers will wow you with their beautiful chapel and wedding flowers, and bouquets…Practice your first dance while our musicians and DJ’s entertain you with a variety of sounds…Check out the latest in bridal photography and video…Experience the luxury of one of the many limousines on display…See beautiful wedding dresses and what’s new in formal attire…All this plus invitations, bridal registry and much much more.

Arlene Pecora