A Few Words of Advice

We sincerely want you to have your perfect wedding. Here are just a few words of advice:
1.  Wedding Planning is like marriage . . . approach it as a team.
2.  Focus on what is really important.
3.  Punctuate your wedding planning with

Beautiful Luminaries

Glass cylinders or square vases can be made into beautiful luminaries by simply wrapping vellum paper around the outside of the container.  These can be personalized with a photograph or a meaningful message from the Bride and Groom.

Choosing Your Flowers

It is best to book your florist approximately 6 months prior to your wedding, especially if your wedding is to take place during a popular month (like May to August).  Prior to picking out your flowers, it is wise to have your ceremony and reception locations determined, as these will influence your decisions.

How to Clean Votive Candle Holders

Place the previously burned glass holder in the freezer for several hours.  Once the wax is frozen, it will shrink away from the sides and easily slip out.  Or, pour a tablespoon of water into the bottom of the holder before adding the votive candle.

Speeches and Toasts

Wedding toasts were originally a French custom.  Bread was placed in a wine glass and passed around to the guests.  The first person to reach the bread was expected to enjoy good luck.  Traditionally, toasts are given by the following three males of great importance: the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man.  The order of these toasts varies culturally, and today, can be determined by the bride and groom themselves, together with their families.  Anyone may propose a toast at the reception.  Most people proposing a toast will want to have time to prepare and rehearse their speeches, so the persons giving the toasts should be approached well before the wedding day.  The groom and father of the bride usually give very thoughtful and emotional speeches, while the best man often chooses to be rather comical, and perhaps not always tasteful.  If this is of concern, discuss this beforehand to prevent any embarrassment.  Speeches should be short, sincere, and discriminating.  Humor, in good taste, is priceless!

The History of the Wedding Cake

Dating back to medieval times, Romans included wedding cakes in their marriage ceremonies.  These first cakes were actually loaves of bread baked with wheat or barley.  This bread was broken over the bride's head as a blessing for long life and fertility.  Over time, the custom has evolved into the tiered cake that is widely accepted today.  Color, shape, flavor and decoration reflect the preferences of the couple.  Countless options are now available.

The Ring

Being a continuous circle, without an ending, the ring represents a token of everlasting love, and a commitment. Historically, it was once believed that there was a vein running from the third finger of the left hand directly up to the heart.  Thus the wedding band is usually placed on this finger.  Egyptian men once regarded the gift of a gold ring as a symbol of proof that they trusted their new wives with their wealth.

Tossing the Bridal Bouquet

Like the tossing of the garter by the groom, the bride throws her bouquet and the lucky lady who catches it is believed to be the next woman to wed.  Initially, it was believed that anything of the bride's would bring good luck and help to dispel evil spirits.

Personalizing your Unity Candle

Wrap your candle with a strip of vellum paper customized with your own personal information and message.  Secure with a small amount of hot glue.

What is an Escort Card?

Escort or Seating Cards are used when all table assignments have been pre-arranged.  Small Flat Panel Cards, Place Cards or Gift Tags are all suitable for preparing Seating Cards.  Regardless of format, each card will include the name of the guest and their assigned table placement.  Prepared seating cards should be sorted alphabetically and placed near the entrance of the Reception.  You may wish to combine the escort/seating card with the favors.  Now your Guests would receive a small gift upon their arrival.  Display a large Poster depicting the floor plan of the Reception area in a highly visible location.  This will be a very helpful resource.  Your Guests will be very pleased you have taken the time to ensure they have a carefully selected seat location for this very important occasion.

Writing Your Own Vows

Many couples choose to write their own vows.  This enables them to express their own sentiments and emotions more personally.  Couples are still required to fulfill the legal requirements of their state, but adding a few personal notes will make your ceremony memorable.  Some couples like to work together on their vows while others prefer to keep it a surprise.  Just remember, if you choose this route, you may want to make sure that your voiced words are not too personal and will not make your partner feel uncomfortable.  Meet with your officiant well in advance of the wedding to discuss your vows and to ensure that they meet all religious and legal requirements.  Prepare your vows in writing on a decorative note card and have it available just in case the emotion of the day causes an untimely memory lapse.