When should the couple put together the guest list? Although it doesn’t have to be set in stone, a fairly approximate head count is needed early on in the wedding planning stage. The number of guests invited to your wedding will have a considerable impact on your wedding budget. Remember, they’re your guests and you’ll need to accommodate each and every one of them! You’ll need a venue large enough to hold all your guests comfortably, you’ll have to feed them, they’ll need invitations, and if they’re coming from out of town, they’ll likely need overnight accommodations. With an average cost of $25 per guest for food, every 4 guests will cost approximately $100 just to feed!

But every wedding needs guests (unless you’re planning to elope) so let’s think about whom will be attending. You and your mate will be there, of course. After that, add your immediate family to the guest list. Notice I say ‘immediate’ and not ‘extended’ family. Mothers, fathers, step-parents, brothers, sisters and grandparents are absolute musts, unless personal situations dictate otherwise. According to the above estimate, you’re already spending about $300 for food just on this group! That should make you rethink your grand illusion of 250 guests!

It is tradition to have wedding attendants and they should be added to the guest list next. A maid or matron of honor and the best man are absolute minimums. From there, the number of bridesmaids and ushers is purely a personal choice. But remember, even though the attendants will be paying the costs for their attire, the number of wedding attendants will have an impact on your budget. Why? First, they’ll be at the rehearsal dinner and they’ll expect to eat for free. Second, the bride and groom traditionally give each of the attendants a gift as a way of showing their appreciation, so the more attendants, the more gifts you buy. And something that’s not always considered, a large number of attendants may increase your transportation costs.

With the basics in place, it’s time to add friends, co-workers, extended family members, your parents’ friends and business associates, your realtor, the butcher, and on and on. Put everyone you can think of on the list and see where you’re at. Then, if necessary, take the red pen and start cutting until you’re down to a figure that manageable and that fits into your budget.

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However, there are some protocols, too. You can’t just cut out everyone you don’t like; you have to be a little politic about it. For example, if you’re inviting colleagues of a certain type, say just those with whom you have direct contact or just those who work in your department, you gotta ask all who belong to that type. You can’t leave out one or two of them though you hate their guts. If you do that, it’ll be the worst PR move in your life. And, of course, asking your boss is a very good idea, if only because he’s the one who’ll approve your honeymoon vacation!

And remember, if you aren’t asking everyone, then learn to keep your mouth shut, and speak about the occasion only when asked. And when you do speak, keep things vague and lukewarm so that the listener doesn’t get to expect an invitation. Prepare a non-offensive answer beforehand to fend off those who’ll ask directly if they’re invited.

It’s helpful to categorize guests when making the initial lists, for instance ’schoolmates’, ‘colleagues’, ‘cousins’ etc. If and when you need to do tricks with numbers later in the process, you can zap around or delete whole categories, saving time and trouble.

Before doing up your guests list, it’s a very good idea to finally decide on the venue and get to know all there’s to know about it. You can then trim your list according to the place’s maximum capacity, or if they’re charging a very hefty fee per head.

Do you have to invite everyone who ever invited you to their weddings? Certainly not! A casual invitation you accepted some years ago doesn’t automatically oblige you to return the invitation. If you’re no longer in touch with that person, and do not feel an overwhelming urge to include him/her, then just forget it. It’s little use wasting something between $80 and $200 (for that’s the average cost per head at wedding parties) on someone who’s practically a semi-stranger. And it isn’t as if that person particularly expects to be invited.

If you have to pay the caterers in advance for the exact number of guests, it’s often useful to have a back-up list of guests whom won’t mind being asked at the last moment. This way, if you get to find out at the last moment that there are a significant number of fewer people coming than you paid for, you can fill in the gap by pulling the requisite number from the back-up list.

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Gifts that are treasured are those that are personalized. For example, a gift that can be given at a wedding may be something that is engraved with the couples wedding anniversary, their names and the special day. This could go for example on a wedding album or even a picture frame. It will bring back memories of their wedding each time they glance at it.

Other types of special and memorable gifts are those that are themed to the bride and grooms tastes or something magical about this special day. For many, their wedding will have theme, for instance many are Disney themed while others are Hawaiian themed. A gift that is meaningful may be one that helps to represent this theme even once the wedding is over.

Weddings are magical times, times that need to be remembered. Instead of giving another gift that will not be remembered, those wedding guests that give a gift that is treasured will be remembered each time the wedding couple glances at their gift. This is what makes them unique and special. All it takes is a personalized message or a thought about them to make it very much the perfect gift. As long as the couple loves their gift that is all that really matters anyway.

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Consider the theme of the reception. A cozy barbeque will be out of place if the venue is an elegant, polished ballroom. Elaborate dinner service will be out of place if the venue is a disco with people shaking a leg everywhere. Consult a reliable caterer. Sit with him or her and work out the minutest details, so that no problems occur to mar D -day. Ensure that your caterer is licensed and has health permits, besides lots of experience. Are certain kinds of food more likely to cause allergies? Have you thought of balanced menus for veggies as well as the non veggies? Have you thought of providing liquor, at the same time considering fruit juice or soft drinks for teetotallers? Have you arranged for coffee for the caffeine addicts?

Most caterers allow you to taste their food beforehand, so that you don’t go wrong on the big day. They may charge a fee for this, but the service is worthwhile.

Check to ensure that the ingredients used by your caterer are hygienic and high quality. Ask whether the desserts would be prepared in house or ordered from outside. All of these details will help you finalize the costs and stand your ground if things go awry later. Leave no stone unturned.

Ensure that you have a written contract with the caterer mentioning the smallest details, with absolutely no loopholes. Always inquire about the cancellation policy and pay attention to the fine print in the contract. Should you cancel the date or venue later, know beforehand the possible penalties. Try to have a back up plan too, if at the last minute you find your catering service unpalatable!

The menu itself should go along with the theme of the bash. It also depends on the number of guests you are planning to invite, and most importantly, your budget. Even if the budget is low, with careful, creative planning you can ensure fun, wholesome food that your guests will find irresistible! Do NOT leave the food department till the last minute. You cannot afford this at all.

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Choosing a wedding dress can be a tricky business, so you got to start a long way before time if you want to avoid giving yourself nervous jitters as the big day approaches. Special orders at a reputable tailor’s can take anywhere between four to six months. Plus you got to allow some time for additions and alterations. So it’s a good idea to start about seven or eight months prior to the occasion.

It often happens that you can’t quite communicate your preference. A particular cut or shape or frill took your fancy, but for the life of yourself, you can’t bring it exactly to mind. So whenever you look at a photograph or an advertisement that you like, preserve a sample for later reference.

The style of the dress will depend very much on the kind of occasion. For lavish and formal gatherings, nothing less than a floor-length dress, along with gloves, train and veil will do. Ivory, cream, peach, white or champagne are good colors for this type of thing. Smaller, semi-formal occasions will admit softer pastel colors, a shorter length, smaller veil and no gloves or train. Second or subsequent weddings are normally low-profile affairs, and sometimes the bride will prefer a short dress or even a two-piece suit.

Looks are important, but so is comfort. With a well-chosen dress, you can have it both ways. Don’t irrationally stick to a particular style even if it doesn’t suit you. You should have someone with you who can give an honest and experienced opinion about what fits you and what doesn’t. A dress that’s too small in the waist or too loose around the shoulders will embarrass you on the big day, and most likely not even look good. Order something that fits and flatters your body shape, be it princess or sheath, ball gown or empire waist.

Get realistic you have a budget to meet. Wedding dresses can cost as little as $100 (for a simple off-the-rack product), and as much as $10,000 for the really classy designer stuff. Before you’re led beyond your means by the lure of what you can’t afford, fix your budget and promise to stick to it. Try on some of the designer items, just to get an idea about quality. Based on that experience, buy something that’s within your means.

Allow for mistakes and for the fact that you may lose or gain some weight during the six-to-nine-month gap between ordering the dress and the day itself. Allocate some budget for alterations. Also, make a detailed list of all the accessories the dressmakers promised you, and tell them that if you don’t have the finished item ready by the specified date, then the deal’s off. This way, you get to avoid nervous tension at the eleventh hour.

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First, make everyone feel at home and very welcome. Greet them with flowers and small gifts (inexpensive ones will do, it’s the warmth of the gesture that matters). Ensure comfortable sitting places for aged guests, as well as for people to rest in. There should also be enough space to stroll around, play or dance in. See that there are good refreshing rooms and loos, sufficient water and clean towels.

The speeches by the father, the bridegroom and the Best man are traditional parts of wedding receptions. Don’t make these long and cumbersome. After the father, the groom may say a few lines thanking loved ones, friends and other people who have helped make the reception a success. There should be plenty of good wine to toast the newlyweds and to make the guests’ eyes sparkle. Also pass around relishes and tangy finger food to add to the general warmth. The Best man’s speech needs to be really humorous and enlivening. He can make it memorable by sharing funny, nostalgic or naughty anecdotes from the groom’s childhood, so as to let the guests know the kind of person his friend or sibling really is, at a comfortably personal level.

Provide music in the background. If it is a truly romantic setting, you cannot go wrong with violins and saxophone, played live if possible. If it is a disco, let the music flare and add energy to the occasion, as well as encourage and cajole people on to the dance floor to have a really good time!

Be creative and think of fun games on the themes of love, togetherness or bonding in general. The games should draw out the most reticent members and let them enjoy! The activities should be in sync with the theme of your reception. For instance, crushing grapes together to create wine at a farmhouse setting, or guessing the identity of your partner and bonding with people at a masked ball or a fancy dress event!

The kind of food you provide should also fit in with the ambience. If it is a rooftop event, you could have a cozy barbeque. If it is an event in a ballroom, you could all sit together at a formal dinner and enjoy being served in the old fashioned way.

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If you want to begin the year with your beloved then the best time of the year is the time when you make your new-year resolution. And this can be the ideal time to take all your vows and promise to fulfill all your marriage commitments. And if you chance to find all the dates booked then bang on and hit the target on the 14th of February..After all how else can you celebrate your Valentine’s Day for all the years to come? A winter wedding is always romantic as you can go on lovely long holidays together, feeling cosy and comfortable together.

If winter comes can spring be far behind. Getting married in March-April can be fun, as with spring, new love takes birth and everything is nice and new in the air. In March, the weather bounces between winter and spring, sometimes resulting in unpredictable chill and wind. April is a little less unpredictable, being a very romantic month while ushering in the season’s prettiest flowers. After all Pat Boone spoke of April Love and so did Stevie Wonder in Part Time lover.

May is not the best time to get married in the tropical countries, especially with the heat and sun and the associated sweat. Fashion loses its significance and charm during this particular time of the year.

However, June is a special month to complete the nuptial rites. This is because June is named after Juno, the Roman Goddess of marriage. Those who were married in her month she vowed to protect. Another advantage of June is that in many areas it is the first month of predictably nice weather. Honeymooning also special in June because of the summer vacations and the associated holidays.

Autumn weddings are lovely. An autumn wedding brings to mind golden and copper themes through the fabrics and the flowers. Flowers this season are earthy yet rich. Take bold colors in purples russets, yellow and reds. Add a natural twist with dark leafy foliages and wood containers. September and October bring cooler weather, yet it is still mild and enjoyable. Travel plans are also easier to make and destinations are less crowded this time of the year than in the summer months most of the schools start.

Winter weddings are like weddings in a wonderland. December is a wonderful time to get married, with the festival charm in the year, and year-end close-by, you just want to let loose, relax and feel happy. You can create your own fashion statement and get married in a very stress-free and happy atmosphere, which add in the glow to the bride.
Just a word of advice. Whatever be your plans don’t stress yourself and take as much help from friends and family to make the big day a special one to remember for all.

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Indeed, difficulties and frustrations often visit us, many times in our lives. Our married lives often falter and stumble on these stumbling blocks. But all might go well if only we remembered our marriage vows and acted according to them. That is why it’s important to say what you really mean, and to keep believing in it.

As wedding ceremonies become more and more varied, wedding vows are also taking on many shapes and attitudes. There are traditional vows and modern-style vows, Christian vows and those taken from wedding ceremonies of other communities.

For example, consider this wedding vow of the Apache Indians.
“Now we will feel no rain or cold, for each of us will provide shelter and warmth to the other. Now we shall be lonely no longer, each being companion of the other. For the two of us, there’s only one life ahead. May our journey through life in the coming years be filled with happiness and beauty.”

These are simple words, but they reflect the very essence of what it is to marry. If you’d like to follow the heartfelt vows of these simple people of nature, you could model your vows upon this example.

You could also decide that other people, more skilled than you at words, have penned their feelings about love and marriage far better than you ever could. If you want to fashion your wedding vows after poets, consider a sonnet by Shakespeare, no.116, that starts with “Let me not to the marriage of true minds / Admit impediments.” He goes on to say that true love is something that doesn’t alter over time, and doesn’t jump around from person to person. It is the fixed, unmoving pole star to all who are emotionally lost or distressed, and shows them the way to a safe port. Though physical beauty fades with the passage of time, still love remains unchanged, undiminished, because it depends not on your looks but on your heart.

Such is the ideal love that people about to get married should aim for. Such is the devotion and the dedication that joins two people together for life, never to willingly part again.

Some people like it traditional, and would want to stick to a Biblical model. The vows from the Book of Common Prayers declare that marriage is a sacrament that is given to mankind by God, and with God as their witness the willing persons are united to each other for life.

Whatever your wedding vows say, make sure that they are a true picture of your heart and your mind. If you are sincere with your vows, they will become a great source of strength to you in times of stress and difficulty, and stand you in good stead all your life.

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As for what can go into one, there are many options to consider. A time capsule can be filled with wonderful things such as a favor from the party, the invitations to the reception, and a pamphlet from the actual ceremony. They can have that special wine glass stored safely away in it. They can even have the grooms tie if you would like. Virtually anything can be placed into a time capsule that you would like. A nice idea is for each member of the bridal party to write a special note that can be safely tucked away into the capsule. Consider filling it with pictures of the day, the guestbook from the day as well as a champagne bottle. Why not add in a copy of the wedding vows as well?

The time capsule can be purchased throughout the web. They are available for different themes as well as have their own ideas of what should go in them. Once they are filled and sealed, they can be opened at any time that the bride and the groom decide, the farther down the road into their marriage the better. Whatever it is that is put into these time capsules should forever mark the day for these two people.

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Online, there are many specialty websites that even specialize in wedding gifts. You will find some of the most amazing things to give your favorite new couple. Here are some ideas to consider.

* Instead of giving a gift of dishes, consider a platter. But, this platter can be personalized and should not be used for food. It could have the picture of the wedding party on it, or just a picture of the groom and bride themselves. These are cute and personal wedding gifts that will be cherished long after that set of dishes are gone.
* Give the gift of romance. A great wedding gift to give would be a gift that will allow for many romantic nights together. Consider wine glasses, candleholders, and maybe a set of beautiful plates. Of course, to make this special, make sure to personalize these too.
* For a warm and cozy gift, consider giving the wedding couple a photo quilt with their wedding photo on it. Or, perhaps just have one that is personalized with their names and their special date on it.

Throughout the web there are amazing, personal and even handmade wedding gifts that can be given to those that you love. Find gifts that they will love and that they will cherish for a lifetime. Each time that they see them, they will love each other even more and remember you for giving it to them. These gifts are gifts that can be remembered for many, many years to come.

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The groom, the brides parents, anyone that loves her so much can give the bride a gift. But, the question is what should be given to the bride. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue is how the superstition goes, but what gifts can be given? Brides like to reminisce so things that will fit well with her are things that will help her to remember where she came from. For example, a beautifully framed picture of her with her closest friends will be cherished. Have it personalized with their names and shell love it. Or, consider a gift that is a photo album of all the wonderful things that she has done throughout her life.

Of course, there are other gifts that are ideal for a bride on her wedding day as well. For example, consider giving her jewelry to wear, earrings, necklaces or a beautiful bracelet will be loved. Perhaps giving her a jewelry box to store these things is also a good idea. Try to have the piece or the box personalized with a message of love to her from you. These are things that the bride will hold close to her heart. Give her gifts that she will love and that will bring her back to her memories of childhood, growing up, remembering the days that she dreamed of her wedding day. And, now, it is here.

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There are many things that you can give. You just have to think creatively and think about the couple in the first place. In most cases, you will want to make sure to give something that is not the standard wedding gift. You are looking for something that will fit with the couple well, but something that is not an everyday ordinary item that they probably already have. Often, one thing that can be done to find a simple gift for the second marriage is to find out if they are registered at any locations. These are things that they do want.

For those that have a parent that is getting married for the second time, consider a special keepsake and memento for the couple. Make sure to open your arms to this new union and to show this to your favorite wedding couple. There are many things that you can do including a book of beautiful poetry.

The best way to buy for a couple that likely has everything that they need is to give a gift they can use. For example, give a gift of a spa day where they can relax away all of the problems of their wedding day. Give a gift of a night at a bed and breakfast away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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* What things do they like and enjoy? Do they love gourmet coffees and teas? Then give them a basket that is full of wonderful blends of coffees that are from around the world. Do they enjoy gourmet foods? Then, make this the ideal gift basket idea for them.
* Where do they like to go? If the couple will be taking at trip for the wedding but it wont come for several months, then give them a gift basket filled with bath and body products, a spa gift certificate and maybe even some monogrammed robes to take with them. All couples would appreciate a relaxing dip in the spa. This can also help them to relax before their big day.
* Consider a gift basket for their wedding that is filled with things to pack a meal up and take it to the beach. Provide them with candles, wine glasses (personalize them too!) and a basket that is packed with a blanket and other things so that they can enjoy a nice, relaxing day at the beach.

Gift baskets are a great way to give those that you love something that may not be an appliance or something as boring as pots and pans. By filling a basket full of things that you know that they love and need, you will be giving them an opportunity to be themselves and enjoy the things that make them, well, them.

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Here are some rules. The flower girl basket should fit with the rest of the wedding. If your wedding is to be red and white, make sure your basket matches that for the perfect look. Are you using silk in all of your dresses? Make sure that the flower girls flower basket is just the same. Also, make sure to add the ring bearers pillow in there so that they both match and look beautiful.

Some brides like to give the flower girl the wedding basket to keep as a token of remembrance of their special day. For those that are looking for something to do this with, have the inside of the basket personalized with a message of thanks, the couples names as well as a date so that she can keep it and remember it for a long time.

The wedding is not complete unless there is a little beautiful girl walking down the aisle, spilling beautiful flower petals on the ground with her white silk gloves and her very beautiful flower basket in her hands. The good news is that there are many various styles to choose from. There are various colors to use as well. Ribbons or not can be chosen. It is the same thing with the flowers that are used to decorate the flower basket with. There are many options that can be used and many, many amazing things that can make this gift one of the most amazing ways to remember this special day.

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Transportation is one wedding issue you want to tackle early on, six months to a year in fact, before the big day. On your checklist, it would happen after you’ve selected the venues for the ceremony and the reception, and after you’ve confirmed the number of wedding attendants you will have. Why? Because a big part of wedding transportation involves logistics, in other words, how many people can be transported to and from point A to point B and then to point C and how long will it take.

Begin with transporting the bridal party from the place where they will dress to the wedding ceremony. It is customary to transport all women (and girls) involved as well as the bride’s parents. If the bridal party is so large that everybody cannot fit into the vehicle, it is possible to make multiple trips provided they are coordinated and discussed with the service provider beforehand. The groom and groomsmen arrange their own transportation to the ceremony and this is not something that typically is contracted out.

After the ceremony, anything goes. Many couples choose to have the entire wedding party transported from the ceremony to the reception, but it’s acceptable to transport only the bride and groom, or the bride, groom, best man and maid of honor. If you’ll be transporting the whole gang, again, multiple trips or multiple vehicles may be necessary. Once everyone is present and accounted for, the topic of transportation is over.

With that logistical information figured out, you’re ready to begin your search. First, double-check the wedding budget worksheet to see how much money has been allocated for transportation. Your options can get pricey. Besides limousines, you can make a grand statement by being transported in a stretch Hummer or SUV, either of which can transport large groups. Classic or vintage cars are a stylish option. Other ideas include a party bus, a horse-drawn carriage, a boat, a snowmobile, motorcycle and side car, hot air balloon, or anything really that fits in well with the overall theme of the wedding. Of course a personal vehicle is always a fine option and is the least expensive.

Be sure to ask about wedding package deals like a free bottle of champagne, or transportation at the end of the evening. And always carefully review the contract before you sign. Make sure it states date, pick-up times, total costs and payment schedule, any extras you’ve agreed to, the driver’s name and what he or she will wear, and the cancellation/refund policy.

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Plan it well in advance to avoid being clueless or frantic later. The idea of a wedding shower is to celebrate the bride and give her a space to let her hair down before the big day, with her friends and loved ones. It’s supposed to be a relaxing experience, so tying yourself in knots in excitement or tension can only serve to spoil the mood and dislocate the purpose.

The maid-of-honor or the bridesmaids may host the shower for individual weddings or hold a bash for multiple ones, if they can team up, to save costs. And of course, the more the merrier.

The theme of the wedding shower may reflect the theme of the wedding, or may just provide a crazier, more whimsical space to enjoy together if one is planning a more traditional and conservative marriage later. As part of the host team, explore first what the bride or the couple considers to be a fun experience, and then give free rein to the imagination. The invitations you send out may contain information about the marriage web site, so that tech savvy friends and relatives can access the latest details freely, know what the couple needs to decide on the wedding presents accordingly.

The themes may range from anything to everything right from a comfortable garden party to lingerie fun, depending on the bride and the range of guests invited.
If the theme of the shower is decided after analyzing the preference or personality of the bride, it would also ideally provide a cue to guests who do not know her personally and feel baffled as to the choice of gifts.

For instance, a bride who feels she cannot cook to save her life, the theme may be culinary. Friends and family may pitch in, cooking together, encourage her to join them and provide her with an album of delicious, east-to-prepare and sureshot success recipes and kitchen accessories to make her life easier.

For the sporty kind of bride, the theme might be an adventurous one, including rock-climbing or camping orientations. Guests may gift her practical stuff like tents, a couple comfy sleeping bags and books on romantic getaways.

For newly weds about to move into their first homes and interested in making it beautiful, guests may bring books on interior dcor, lampshades, small articles of furniture and bric-a-brac to help them do so. The shower may explore this theme, with people offering practical tips recorded on cards for the homemakers.

Various interactive games can be played during your bash, to involve more people ad make it more fun. The themes of these games may range from sharing of recipes and household tips to insights on love, marriage and lovemaking.

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According to most wedding planning timelines, you can wait to shop for wedding rings until 4 months before the actual wedding date. By then, most of the stress-inducing logistics have been taken care of enabling the two of you to relax for a brief period. And that’s what shopping for wedding rings should be a time relaxing, quite time for the two of you to regroup before things really spiral out of control and tensions flare!

The wedding rings are an important purchase because they’re something that you’ll want to last a lifetime. But even so, it’s important now more than ever to stick within the amount you have previously budgeted for this purpose. Once you start looking at wedding rings, you’re going to want them all, no matter what they cost. Keep in mind while you shop that you do want your rings to look good, but because they’ll become part of everyday life, be practical and make sure that your wedding rings fit comfortably.

Where do you begin your search for wedding rings? Trends are great, and the trendy rings will be placed center stage at the jewelers, but most people opt for tradition when selecting their wedding rings. Remember, the rings are going to be worn for a long time, hopefully decades, and today’s trends aren’t going to last that long. Be sure to consider what you both like. For many men, a wedding ring is the only piece of jewelry they’ll ever wear so let the guy have some say in the decision.

Do you both prefer white gold, yellow gold, or platinum? Do you want gemstones or diamonds included on the bands? How about scroll work or filigree? Would simple, unadorned bands suit you better? Do either of you have any cultural preferences such as Irish Claddaugh rings, Jewish wedding bands or Russian wedding rings? Do you want matching wedding rings or do you each want a ring that represents your own unique style? (Believe it or not, this is acceptable nowadays!)

Once you’ve selected the wedding rings that best suit your tastes, decide whether or not you want to have the rings engraved. Engraving is a great way to make yet another statement about your commitment, and you’ll be amazed at how much can actually fit onto that tiny space! Be sure to go over the receipt carefully before handing over your partial or full payment, especially when special-ordering rings or having them engraved. To ensure they’ll last a long time, understand how to properly care for them. And finally, consider insuring your wedding rings.

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Six to twelve months before your wedding date is the time when you need to make most of your reservations and put down deposits. You’ve got to get a rough but fairly accurate estimate of the number of guests you’ll have because each wedding location can accommodate a certain number of people and you want a location that can comfortably accommodate everyone. Here’s what needs to be accomplished during this timeframe.

o Select and reserve locations for the wedding ceremony and the reception
o Interview and reserve your professional talent including: Musician or DJ, Photographer/Videographer, Floral arranger, Caterer, Wedding cake baker, Wedding official, Wedding planner or consultant (optional)
o Select and confirm wedding party attendants for both bride and groom
o Select wedding party attire and coordinate fittings
o Arrange transportation for bridal party on the big day
o Place engagement information in local newspaper

Four months before your wedding date is the time to make sure everything is in place.

o Finalize your guest list including complete mailing address for invitations
o Order wedding invitations
o Select a destination for the honeymoon, make hotel and airfare reservations, get passports
o Reconfirm that bridal party dresses are on order and menswear rental attire is coordinated
o Begin planning the wedding shower
o Register at bridal registries for shower and wedding gifts if not registering at national chains, remember to register at stores that are local to the families of both bride and groom
o Reserve suite for bride and groom’s wedding night
o Reserve block of hotel rooms for out-of-town wedding guests
o Shop for and order wedding rings
o Make sure you both agree where you will live once you’re married

Two months before your wedding date:

o Address and mail wedding invitations
o Make preparations for rehearsal dinner
o Coordinate details for marriage license in state where marriage ceremony will take place
o Coordinate, order, or make decorations and favors for wedding
o Select the music you want for the ceremony and the reception

One month before your wedding date:

o Have the wedding shower
o Complete final fittings for bridal dress and all bridal attendants
o Coordinate and schedule all hair and make-up appointments
o Purchase gifts for bridal party and groomsmen

Two weeks before your wedding date:

o Get marriage license
o Begin process of changing name on credit cards, social security card, driver’s license, bank accounts
o Prepare seating arrangements and prepare place cards
o Make sure accommodations for out-of-town guests are in order
o Reconfirm all details with those who have been hired
o Prepare change of address paperwork, pack and get ready to move (if applicable)
o Give final count to caterer
o Practice hair and make-up styles; grooms should get hair cut now

Day before wedding your wedding date:

o Hold rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
o Get some rest

The Big Day

o Make it to the ceremony on time
o Bring wedding rings
o Have a means of paying final tab for all services rendered and have cash for tips
o Eat before ceremony so you don’t get sick
o Smile pretty for your pictures
o Be proud because you’ve just pulled off a major feat!!

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With so much to coordinate, it’s amazing that weddings go on at all. Considering that both the bride and the groom are likely holding down full-time jobs, who has time to work out all the details? And there are so many. Well the big secret is it’s all in the plan. Having a well-thought out plan that starts with selecting the perfect wedding date and ends with arriving at the most romantic honeymoon destination is the only way to keep nerves from fraying and budgets from being blown.

Plenty of tools are available to help you plan your wedding. It’s up to you to decide which tool will work best for you and then you’ve got to make sure you use the tool you’ve selected. Wedding planning tools range in price so before you go spending any money, take a step back and think for a moment about the b-word. A ‘budget’ is crucial because it’s what will keep you and your partner (and anyone else funding the festivities) from going into debt. As unflattering as the word is, every wedding needs to begin with a budget. Wedding costs can rapidly spiral out of control because let’s face it, everybody wants their big day to be magical.

To determine a budget for the big day, start with figuring out who is going to be contributing towards the finances and how much each can afford to contribute. Once you have a total dollar amount to work with, you can then begin to allocate the budget to the different parts of the wedding.

The wedding plans all begin with the wedding date. Everybody wants to be a June bride, but with only four week-ends in this month, not everybody can. The wedding date you select will have a significant impact on your budget. A wedding during the busy summer months will cost far more than one that’s held off-season. Not only will the wedding date impact the price you’ll pay for everything from the function hall to the photographer, it also impacts availability.

Once the wedding budget and wedding date have been nailed down, it’s time to get busy. Part II will provide a timeline of tasks you need to accomplish in the days and months leading up to the big day!

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This will require more than scanning the phone book or Internet to find the least expensive package deal. It’s true that you get what you pay for and if you’re willing to pay the minimum amount, you might just end up with minimum wedding photography/videography service.

Right from the beginning, realize that wedding photography and videography services will consume a significant portion of your wedding budget. Also know that it’s an absolute must to book this type of talent as soon as possible, at least 6 months to a full year before the wedding date, especially if you’re planning the wedding during the summer or holiday season. You’ve got to get a head start and although that offer from your Uncle Vinny to photography your wedding (for free!) as his gift to you sounds tempting, resist the offer. This is not the time for amateur shots.

It’s important to move at a fast pace, but never skip the background check. Checking references is a must but so is being allowed to view the prospective photographer’s images from a previous wedding assignment. Don’t rely on the quality of their portfolio which is usually a collection of the best pictures from multiple weddings. You want to view one whole wedding, from start to finish. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau as they’ll have on file any complaints made against the person or company.

A lengthy history of wedding photography (as opposed to other types of photography experience, or your Uncle’s free offer) is also a sign that the person knows what he or she is doing. Don’t assume that the person you’re interviewing brings back-up equipment and batteries ask because equipment does fail.

When selecting the wedding ceremony and reception location, make sure the photographer has access to the shots you want to get. It’s also a good idea before the reception to delineate an area where the wedding photographer/videographer can be based; somewhere primarily for the storage/setup of necessary equipment and extra gear. Close to the music is always a good choice.

When selecting someone to coordinate your wedding photography and videography, take time to discuss the types of pictures you want taken and of whom. Know whether the person will develop the pictures and assemble them into the wedding album or if you’ll just be getting the negatives and CD. In the latter case, you’ll be the one assembling the album. That’s fine as long as it’s what you expect and know how to do.

As you can see, advance planning is crucial. On your wedding day, you want to enjoy yourself knowing that someone reliable is out there, capturing the memories that’ll last a lifetime!

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While many of the ‘rules’ dictating a wedding are often broken by today’s couples-to-be, don’t even consider going against generally-accepted etiquette when sending your wedding invitations. In addition to providing the details and setting the tone, a wedding invitation should also convey what is and is not allowed. And as tempting as it may be to put your guest’s names and addresses into a database, select a script font and print out a sheet of stick-on labels, don’t do it! If you’re having a casual affair, it may be okay, but anything else requires handwriting. If your handwriting is not up to par, hire someone for this task. Many couples hire calligraphers, which is a great option if your budget allows.

It’s important to include a response card and a stamped, pre-addressed return envelope in with the wedding invitation to make replying an easy task. As for addressing, here are a few of the etiquette rules. If you’re allowing the invitee to bring a guest, or if children are not invited, you need to specify this. Customarily this is handled by the way the inner envelope is addressed.

Adding ‘and guest’ after the invited guest’s name conveys the message that the guest is allowed to bring a guest. Adding the names of the guest’s children, in order from oldest to youngest, indicates that their children are welcome to attend. There are other rules for addressing the envelopes of professionals, couples that live together but are not married, women who use their maiden name and others so be sure you follow them.

It’s customary to mail wedding invitations at least six weeks prior to the wedding date to allow guests adequate time to respond. Guests arriving from out of state or even out of the country will appreciate the extra time to coordinate their travel so as a courtesy, it’s a good idea to mail their invitations 8 10 weeks before the wedding.

And while you’re busy selecting your wedding invitations, you’ll find matching wedding stationary available for purchase. For that special day, you can order coordinating beverage napkins, match books, place cards, wedding cake box, and even a special wedding album. You can have the menu printed up and a wedding ceremony program that can be handed out to guests. You’ll also need to thank your guests for attending and for their generous wedding gifts so it’s a good idea to order thank-you cards and envelopes when you’re ordering wedding invitations.

You and your partner should plan to shop for wedding invitations and wedding stationery when you aren’t feeling rushed, and do keep that budget in mind!

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So who makes up the group fortunate enough to receive a gift from the bride and groom? Members of the wedding party top that list. That includes everybody: best man, maid (matron) of honor, bridesmaids, ushers, groomsmen, junior bridesmaids, flower girls, and ring bearers. It’s also a nice gesture for the bride to give a gift to the groom and vice versa, although this is not mandatory. Nowadays, the bride and groom also include each set of parents on the gift giving list. And finally, it’s definitely a nice gesture to give a gift to any other person who did something special during the occasion. Sometimes someone will be asked to do a special reading at the ceremony, or to step in for the bride’s father and walk the bride down the aisle and these individuals should be acknowledged.

The purpose of these wedding gifts is to show your appreciation, not break your wedding budget. A gift that has been specially picked out shows you put thought and consideration into the gift. Including a personalized note with the gift thanks the person for whatever role he or she played and it is certainly a nice touch when having the gift engraved with the wedding date and couple’s names or initials.

Make sure you have the gifts purchased about 4 weeks prior to the wedding date. That gives you enough time to have them engraved and to create your personalized messages. To help the gifts make an even greater impression on the recipient, take special care in wrapping them. Use fancy wrapping paper and elaborate bows using colors that complement the wedding colors. The best time to give your gifts is during the rehearsal dinner, as it’s intimate, and the people to whom you’re giving the gifts should all be present.

Need some gift ideas? Well first check your wedding budget to see how much you have allocated to this category. You’ve likely spent quite a bit of your money by this stage, so it’s important to take a realistic look. Brides typically give each member of the bridal party a piece of jewelry or a hair clip that the bride would like her to wear on the wedding day. Other gift ideas include bud vases, picture frames, bath oils, a collectible item or a gift basket. The men in the wedding party like to receive engraved pens, pocket watches, cigars, business card holders, a clock for their desk, or key chains. For the parents, a professional wedding photo in an engraved frame is perfect as is a personalized letter detailing your appreciation. For each other, anything that conveys your love and devotion is ideal.

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And even though the majority of wedding receptions are held during the evening, this doesn’t have to be the case with yours. If you’re working on a tight budget, instead of planning a nighttime sit down-style reception, consider arranging a morning, brunch, lunch, or cocktail reception. They can be just as festive, but at a fraction of the cost. To set the tone, select a location with a pleasant daytime view. If you prefer an evening reception, a buffet dinner will cost less than a sit-down dinner as will a paid bar versus an open bar.

You need to plan your wedding food and drinks well ahead, at least 6 - 12 months in advance of the big day. Oftentimes, the reception location is selected because of the fact that the wedding food and non-alcoholic drinks are offered as part of the package price. And while these venues may not create the wedding cake, they will often refer a wedding cake specialist. At a minimum, you’ll find they offer cake cutting/serving services.

There are, however, a number of reception locations that will require the services of a caterer. If this is your situation, it’s important to check whether cooking facilities are available at the reception location. If not, the caterer may have to rent what is needed, which will add to your costs as these fees will ultimately be passed on to you. Most couples think only to deal with creating the menu, not the logistical end of catering including servers. Neglecting the details can lead to problems and cost overruns down the road. A good caterer will help you through the details, but you should know what to ask as well.

Most couples will break their wedding food budget down into a cost-per-person basis. The goal is to get as much quality food as you can while spending the least amount possible. You have lots of food options and if you’re planning the food and the wedding/reception simultaneously, you have time options like those noted above which can lower your wedding food costs significantly.

When it comes to wedding drinks, non-alcoholic beverages will be your least expensive option (although you still should have champagne for a toast) and you’ll find that they’re often included with the price of the wedding food. If you’re going to serve alcoholic beverages, you have more decisions to make including open bar or paid, wine and beer or full liquor service.

As for the wedding cake, again, the costs are typically determined on a per head basis. It used to be that you ordered your multi-tier, one flavor cake with plastic statue on top from a baker but nowadays, you can actually have your wedding cake custom-created by a cake designer! That’s just one more thing to think about when planning your wedding budget.

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Wedding favors are used as a way for the bride and groom to show that they appreciate each of their guests; the time they have taken out of their busy schedules, the help they have given, the thoughtfulness in their gift-giving, the distances the guests have traveled, whatever it is the guest did that helped make this day even more special for the couple.

Wedding favors traditionally are given to all of the guests that have been invited to the wedding reception. They’re typically inexpensive gifts, averaging in the $1 - $2 price range per piece. Of course, more expensive wedding favors are available and there are many weddings for which these higher-priced wedding favors are appropriate. Countless wedding favors are available in just about every category one could imagine, from sterling silver picture frames, to personalized edible chocolates, and even fragrant bath soaps.

Selecting wedding favors isn’t all that difficult, nor is it necessary to purchase these well in advance of the wedding date. Most are readily available at online and retail outlets that specialize in this type of wedding accessory. You don’t want to wait until the last minute however, as that is a particularly hectic time, and you will need to allow ample time for personalization, or if you select an item that requires special ordering, for example, an unusually large quantity, or an exclusive item. To be on the safe side, two to three months prior to the wedding date is a good time to make your wedding favor selections. Once you have them in your possession, the only other thing you need to worry about is getting them to the reception before the guests arrive.

One way to easily shop for wedding favors is to go online. Type ‘wedding favors’ into your search engine and you’ll get pages of web sites offering every type of wedding favor you could ever want. So where do you begin? It’s definitely a good idea to consult your budget worksheet first so you know the price range to focus on. From there, think about what makes you and your partner unique. Do you both love golf? Are you wine connoisseurs? What about a theme? If your wedding has one, there’s sure to be a favor to complement that theme. Do you want the favor to be the place holder? If so, select one that allows you to write the person’s name and table number. Creating your own wedding favors is another option and can end up being the most unique wedding favor of all and one that your guests are sure to treasure!

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The most important wedding consideration in a second marriage is the legal documentation. It is imperative that you obtain certifiable proof that you are no longer legally married to another person before you enter into a second marriage. If you previous spouse is deceased a death certificate would serve as proof. If your previous spouse is still alive, you will need to acquire a divorce decree as proof that you are no longer married.

The subject of the cost of the wedding and who bears the financial burden is an important consideration if you are dealing with a second marriage. The bride s parents typically pay for a first marriage but if this is the second marriage for the bride, the parents may not be willing or able to pay for a second wedding. In this situation the couple themselves will usually shoulder the financial burdens of the wedding. This is not a cause for concern because when the wedding is for a second marriage, the event is usually not as extravagant as a wedding for a first marriage. If the couple is paying for the wedding themselves, they should focus on setting a budget beforehand and ensuring that they do not exceed their budget constraints. However, if this is a second marriage for the groom but the first marriage for the bride, the bride s parents may be excited to help in paying for the wedding. Even though the bride s parents are paying for the wedding, the couple may still opt for a simple wedding that does not put a financial strain on the parents.

The subject of wedding attire is another important consideration when planning a wedding for a second marriage. It s important to remember that although some people may disapprove of a bride wearing white when it is her second marriage it really doesn t matter what others think. The most important thing is that the couple themselves feel comfortable with their choices. If the bride wants to wear white even though it is her second wedding, she should go ahead and do so. Whether the couple chooses to walk down the aisle in traditional wedding attire or jeans and sneakers is completely up to them. They should not let the potential of disapproval by others affect their attire choices.

If either the bride or groom has children from a previous relationship, the couple will have to deal with issues relating to the children. The couple will want to discuss their wedding plans with the children early in their engagement to give the children plenty of time to adjust to the idea that their parent will be remarrying. It s important that you inform your ex-spouse of your wedding plans at the same time as your children so that you are not putting your child in the difficult situation of keep a secret from their other parent. Once your child has been informed of the wedding plans, discuss the planning with them and ask them how much they would like to be involved. If they are not comfortable with the plans they may not want to be too involved initially but this may change once the planning starts to get more exciting. Children can be involved in the wedding in a number of ways. Depending on their age they can serve as flower girls and ring bearers or bridesmaids and groomsmen. Children can also play a role in the planning process by helping with decorations, favors and decisions that need to be made. The more involved they are, the less likely they are to feel left out and resentful about the wedding.

Planning a wedding that is a second marriage for either or both members of the couple involves a few extra precautions and issues. Having your legal documentation proving that you are no longer married is the most important issue in a second marriage. Beyond that other issues relate to finances, attire and children.

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Wedding attire is one of those wedding tasks you need to tackle well in advance, especially if you’re planning your wedding during the height of the season. Almost as soon as you announce the wedding date, but only after you have put together a wedding budget, you need to begin planning the attire. Now that’s not something you have to tell most women. Many already know the type of wedding dress they want because they’ve been planning this big day for most of their lives! But still, most brides will spend 4 to 6 weeks shopping, trying on and pondering wedding attire before it’s even purchased.

And after this 1 2 month period, brides still need ample time for special ordering and custom fitting. They’ll need about 3 separate fittings so that the wedding dress looks absolutely perfect on the big day. It’s a good idea to allow extra time for unexpected delays and emergencies.

Most brides devote a considerable chunk of the wedding budget to the dress and accessories. It certainly doesn’t need to be this way, and there are plenty of options for looking stunning without spending thousands. How much will be spent is a really important point to discuss beforehand, agree on, and follow through with. The bride will be center stage, lots of photos will be taken, and it’s normal to want to look better than ever.

To help the discussion along, begin with talking about the type of wedding you both want elegant, informal, themed, seasonal, outdoors, or something else. The wedding attire that the groom and bride select is going to set the tone for every other aspect of the wedding including what others wear, the color scheme, decorations, invitations, flowers, venues, transportation, everything.

And in addition to the wedding dress, the bride needs accessories including the veil, headpiece, train, shoes, undergarments, stockings, garter, handbag, and jewelry. Much of it can be ordered along with the wedding dress, but other accessories will have to be purchased over the coming months. Be sure to factor in the costs for these accessories when planning the wedding attire budget.

And as was mentioned in the beginning, men’s wedding attire follows the lead of the bride’s. Men need only locate a tuxedo rental outlet 6 12 months before the date, get fitted and pick up their tuxes, which come with all the accessories they’ll need cummerbund, bow tie, vest, even shoes!

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There are numerous ways to save money on your wedding. Limiting yourself within a budget does not mean that your reception cannot be wonderful. Break down everything associated with the feast, from setup to cleanup, to see where you can start cutting. With a little ingenuity, you can save money and still serve the banquet of your dreams.

Schedule your wedding ceremony for an “off” season time such as the morning of a weekday or have it during the middle of winter instead of spring. Avoiding peak seasons will save you money in banquet halls rentals. If weather permits have your wedding in the great outdoors. Book space at the village green or a public park, and decorate the picnic tables with elegant tablecloths, silverware, candles and bottles of wine.

Keep your wedding personal by having a small visitors list of your most intimate kith and kin. Limit the number of bridesmaids. Set your own tables and take the help of family members to help you out.

Have your reception at you home and go for a brunch instead of an elaborate dinner reception. The menu should be simple yet pleasing to the eye by selecting dishes from recipe books, magazines and the internet. If it is a small wedding go potluck, this gets everyone involved in your special day. Setup your own dinner. Ask a pal or relative who loves to cook to manage the meal.

Try to make some of your accessories like your wedding ring pillow, wedding veil, and decorations yourself. Art & Craft and fabric stores offer various choices of designs, ideas and fabrics.

Buy your wedding gown from a place other than the bridal boutique. Compare prices and decide on the best deal that meets your requirements. Make your own wedding favors.
Print your own wedding invitations on wedding invitation paper available and use the easy DTP software to design.

Instead of hiring a professional photographer distribute disposable cameras to some of your guest. You will be surprised at some of the great candid snaps that will come out. Request a friend to be the disc jockey and borrow or rent a good sound system.
Try to decorate with balloons instead of using just flowers. Even if you use flowers keep the dcor simple.

With regard to food serve fewer courses and limit individual choices. Like you can skip the hors d’oeuvre and serve the wedding cake as the dessert. Try to buy your wine at a bulk rate from a source other than your caterer like a military canteen. Engage your own waiters. Hire some dexterous college kids for less than what the liveried professionals charge.

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Yet, it is very possible to give a gift that will be remembered and even cherished. To do this, really understand what the couple would like, what they enjoy as well as what is within budget. Unique gifts may be simple and elegant such as a gold framed picture of the time that they came to visit and you captured them on camera. Or, it could be more extravagant such as an element for their home that is beautiful, useful as well as something unique.

One thing that is important to remember is that a wedding gift should be something that they love and cherish, not necessarily something that you do. Just because you love pink flamingos, does not mean that they do. Keep in mind that the gift that you give should be something that fits them, not you.

To give a unique gift, just think about the things that the couple will love to have and call their own. Think about making it personal with a very special message etched onto it. Or, have something hand crafted for them to see how much you thought about their gift. Giving a gift like this is a sure way to show those that you love how much you thought about them for their special day. It only takes a few minutes of thought and youll have that unique and wonderful wedding day gift.

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Incorporating live fish into the centerpieces is one truly unique centerpiece idea for a wedding reception. Simple glass bowls can be used and filled with a few colorful glass marbles along with some water and an exotic and colorful fish. You could even include a small amount of fish food at the table where children will be sitting with careful instructions on how to avoid overfeeding the fish. The children will have a lot of fun and will be less distracted then they would have been with a more traditional centerpiece on the table. This lively and interactive centerpiece idea is sure to be a hit with kids and will even keep adults entertained.

Another unique centerpiece idea is to arrange a collection of board games in the center of each table. This idea is not only unique but if the guests choose to partake in the games; it gives the guests at the table the opportunity and incentive to get to know those seated at their table if they don t already know them. This is an excellent option for guests who don t enjoy dancing because they won t feel so left out of the fun of the wedding.

Cakes or cupcakes arranged on a serving tray and artfully decorated with fresh or artificial flowers also make a lovely and unique centerpiece. These cakes can be used in place of the traditional wedding cake. Using several small cakes as centerpieces is not only an extremely unique centerpiece idea but it also allows the couple the option of having several different types of cakes and fillings. These centerpieces can be collected by the wait staff and sliced in the kitchen for desert or they can be sliced at the individual tables for additional entertainment value.

An attractive journal that matches the theme of the wedding along with several pens can also serve as a unique centerpiece. This centerpiece will not only look lovely on the table but can also be used by the guests to leave messages of congratulations or words of advice for the couple. This way the couple not only had a unique centerpiece but they also have a treasured souvenir of their wedding day in the kind words recorded by their wedding guests.

Mirrors and candles can also be used to create unique centerpieces. An attractive round mirror could be placed in the center of the table with several lit candles resting on the glass. The flickering light of the candles reflecting on the glass makes for a very striking centerpiece especially if the light in the reception hall is kept dim.

Gift boxes of several sizes can also be used to create unique centerpieces. The couple could take gift boxes of three different sizes and wrap each box in a different but complementary piece of wrapping paper. Once the gift boxes are wrapped they can be glued together at odd angles to create very unique centerpieces.

Another unique centerpiece idea is to have puzzles made up from pictures of the couple. The pieces of the puzzle can be left scattered on the table. This unique centerpiece idea encourages the people sitting at the table to work together to try to put the puzzle together. This is especially useful if many of the guests do not know each other because it is a great ice breaker.

An eclectic assortment of Champaign flutes also makes a truly unique centerpiece. You can purchase an assortment of flutes of various shapes and sizes from a thrift store and clean them up to use them as centerpieces. The flutes can be arranged in an attractive but random pattern to create a unique centerpiece for any occasion.

The choice of the centerpieces is one of the only opportunities that a couple has to express their individuality and ensure that their wedding reception really stands out. While some unique centerpiece ideas may require more of an effort than the traditional centerpiece of flowers, a unique centerpiece is more likely to be remembered than a boring one.

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A limousine is one of the more traditional ways for a bride and groom to arrive at their reception. There is a wide variety of limousines available today including stretch versions of popular sport utility vehicles. The bride and groom may opt for a simple limousine for just the two of them or they may choose to arrive in a stretch sports utility vehicle that can transport the entire wedding party and contains outrageous features such as a hot tub and a dance floor as well as a bar. Although limousine companies are beginning to offer more outrageous models, the limousine is still considered to be the most traditional way for a bride and groom and their wedding party to arrive at the reception.

A horse drawn carriage is becoming another popular way for a bride and groom to arrive at their wedding reception. This mode of transportation creates a fairy tale image that has a feel of magic. This is a way for the bride and the groom to have an opportunity to spend some time alone in between the ceremony and the reception. They typically travel in the carriage without the accompaniment of any of the members of the wedding party so it is a quiet time for the couple to relax together before the excitement of the reception. The other advantage to arriving at the reception in a horse drawn carriage is that the fairy tale connotations make the night seem truly magical.

An adventurous couple may choose to ride a motorcycle to their reception. This unique mode of transportation for a wedding is sure to gain quite a bit of attention. Even people who just happen to be passing by are bound to notice an elegantly dressed bride riding on the back of a motorcycle. One advantage to riding a motorcycle to your wedding reception is that, depending on the policies of the hall, the couple may be able to drive the motorcycle directly into the reception hall as they are introduced to the guests.

A bus is another popular way for the entire wedding party to arrive at the reception. A couple that is interested in getting the party started immediately after the ceremony may opt to rent a bus to transport the entire wedding party from the ceremony to the reception. This is a great way for the couple to have some time to mingle with their closest friends before the reception. Once the couple arrives at the reception they will have the responsibility of mingling with all of the guests and thanking them for their attendance and may not have time to spend with the wedding party so it is important to have this time just before the reception to spend time with them and thank them for all of their efforts. The other advantage to this option is that it supplies all of the members of the wedding party reliable transportation to the reception and ensures that no one is left behind.

An extravagant sports car is another popular way for the bride and groom to arrive at the reception. Whether it is rented, borrowed or owned by the couple an expensive sports car is always an admired mode of transportation. Most sports cars only seat two passengers so this is an excellent way for the bride and groom to travel to their reception because it gives them the opportunity to spend some quality time together before the chaos of the reception. They can take a few moments to enjoy each others company and reflect on the preceding ceremony. This short amount of time will be greatly cherished by the bride and the groom.

The bride and groom have a wide assortment of options for arriving at their wedding reception. Each option has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages and it is difficult to compare the options. Choosing a mode of transportation is a personal choice that the couple has to make based on their own preferences.

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