Bride-O-Rama

Signature Cocktails: Rhubarb-Strawberry Champagne Cocktail

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST

Rhubarb-Strawberry Champagne Cocktail

Serves 8

4 oz. Rhubarb mix

4 oz. Cointreau Champagne to top

(1 bottle 750ml) Rhubarb Mix:

2 stalks rhubarb

1/2 pint strawberries, washed with tops removed

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. sugar

Juice of fresh lime

Puree all ingredients except lime. Reduce liquid to 1/2 over heat. Add lime juice. Mix can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Can also be frozen. In a glass, pour a bit of the rhubarb mix, a splash of cointreau, and top with champagne. Garnish with strawberry.

Weddings and the surrounding celebrations simply call out for champagne. And this recipe certainly brings a modern colorful twist to a signature cocktail. The rhubarb-strawberry mix is easy to whip up in batches making it ideal for a big gathering. And with the vanilla and sugar balancing the tartness, it’s like a fruit salad before dinner or the perfect dessert complement. For flawless service, have the glasses ready with the mix in the bottom, and top with the champagne before serving.

The Questions Never End ...

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST

The annoying questions that other people ask you throughout your adult life are, well... annoying. Once you reach, say, the age of 23 or so (or younger if you don't attend college) people start with the annoying questions about your life plans. The questions usually run in stages; according to the different stages of your life. We have all heard them, and I think women get them a lot more than men do. But men, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

QUESTION #1: So, when are you getting married?

Ummm, I don't know. Why don't you let me find a boyfriend that I actually LIKE first and who wants to marry me. More importantly, let me actually be involved in a relationship for awhile with a guy who ISN'T totally freaked out by the idea of getting married. Overbearing aunts, grandmothers, or office-coworkers constant nagging on the topic doesn't exactly help my cause. Why are other people so concerned with when YOU will get married anyway? It is as if they want and need for everyone else to do what THEY did; and if you don't, there is clearly something wrong with you. I got married "late," at age 35, so I got a LOT of this question. How do you tell people that you simply haven't met your future husband yet? THAT is when I will get married, and that is when I DID get married. When I found someone worthy of the title.

QUESTION #2: So, when is the wedding???

Okay, so when you finally DO get engaged; after endless years of people bugging you about doing so; these same people don't give you even five seconds with the ring on your finger before they start in with the wedding date. When is the wedding? Where will it be? I hope I'm invited! That is my favorite one of all: "I hope I am invited." What in the hell am I supposed to say to THAT? Because nine times out of ten, the person who says this is clearly NOT invited. I wish I had the ka-hunas to say, "Actually; person I barely know and only say Hi to because we work in the same office space, you are not invited. You were not even a thought on the Guest List; which, by the way, hasn't been created yet, because I have been engaged for 3 seconds. But if it WERE created, you wouldn't be on it. Ever. Never ever ever. Go away." But I am much too wimpy to say that. And I might even be so wimpy that I would invite them just to avoid the conflict. I suck.

QUESTION #3: Sooo, are you getting nervous? Are you excited?

This is a two parter. One usually follows the other. You nervous, you excited? This question starts popping up about two months before the wedding. People will sometimes preface it by saying something obvious like, "So, only two months before the wedding, huh?" Ummm, yup. And then they hit you with it. "You nervous? You excited?" I know it is a very innocent, "they mean well" type of question. But believe me, after you hear it literally over 50 times in a one week period, you start to become violent. I mean, how are you supposed to respond to this? Yes, I guess I'm nervous. I mean, I wasn't before, but NOW I am. And am I excited? Yes! Of course I am excited. Do you really think I am going to say, "Actually, no. I am not in the least bit excited about marrying the man I'm going to spend my life with. I could care less. But thanks for asking. You're a real trooper!"

QUESTION #4: Soooo, when are you gonna have kids?

Okay, this is quite possibly the most annoying of all the annoying questions. First of all; again, these people don't give you much time at all to get used to the idea of being married. In fact, some of them even start in with this line of questioning AT THE WEDDING. Or before the wedding. Or a week after the wedding. I don't mind it so much when it is family asking; because at least they know me. What I hate is when it is some co-worker, who I barely know or talk to, wants to know when I am having children and how many and why? And why do people assume that everyone on earth is planning on having kids anyway? What if I don't want them, or what if I'm unable to have children? I just think this line of questioning is a bit too personal for someone I am only acquaintences with. If I were to have kids, do you really think YOU would be the first person I would tell? Ummm, no. If you and I are close, then you will know. You won't have to ask. The end.

Now, if a few years go by, and you don't end up having kids; then Question #4 will continue until the end of time. If however, you DO have a child; then you would think the questions would stop, right? NO! They don't. They never stop. Then people start in with, "Soooo, will you be having more kids? How many? When? A little sister for baby Jimmy to play with? Awwww."

After the kids thing dies down, there really isn't much more to ask. Unfortunately, most people don't really care about all the other accomplishments in your life. I am starting my own business; I landed an agent ... but most people won't ask me about that stuff. They just want to be the first to know the minute I get pregnant. There is a woman at the office I work at who looks to be about in her seventies. She is always asking me when I am planning on having children. All the time. At least once a week. One of these days when she says, "Sooo, when will you be having kids?", I am going to come back with, "I don't know. When will you be dying? What are you, 70, 80? You're not looking so good. Maybe you should think about throwing in the towel. It's really time."

But that would be cruel. And I don't have the ka-hunas to go through with it. So instead, I hide behind my computer, typing out my frustrations in blog form.

What life questions annoy you? Comment here and let me know.

Email Kelley at Kelley@brideorama.com

Top 11 Things I Love About my Husband ...

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST

Today; October 27th, is my first Wedding Anniversary.

Well, by the time this blog is published, it will no longer be my Anniversary. But right now, as I write this, it is. Today at this same time, we were cutting into our wedding cake while a Harry Connick Jr. song played in the background and our friends and family looked on. The first year of my marriage has gone by super fast. It feels like a few months, rather than a whole year. So on this day; I want to dedicate my blog to my wonderful husband; and tell him some of the many reasons that I love him. And although there are hundreds and hundreds of reasons; this list goes to eleven.

The TOP 11 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT MY HUSBAND:

1. His shoulders and chest make for a great, cheap pillow.

2. He is one of the only heterosexual men that I know who genuinely enjoys attending a Broadway Show. (We have gone to many since he moved to the NY area.)

3. He walks over to my side of the car; holds the door open for me; waits until I am safely inside, and then closes it. That is great!

4. He truly loves to see me succeed in life; and is unbelievably happy when I do.

5. He took ballroom dancing lessons for our Wedding/First dance; even though he hated every single second of it.

6. He goes to see romantic comedies with me; and sometimes, he even likes them. (Yes, he likes the movie "Sleepless In Seattle," and no, I swear; he's not gay.)

7. He makes me breakfast in bed. (Okay, fine ..it was just ONE time. But that one time was very unexpected and extremely appreciated.)

8. He transformed himself from someone who said that baseball was "boring;" to someone who not only watches the entire baseball game; but also the pre-game show, post-game show, and spring training. (GO YANKEES!)

9. How passionate he gets when he A. plays guitar, or B. plays tennis.

10. The way he gives me kisses on my forehead; or holds my hand while lying in bed.

11. He packed up his entire Florida life; put it into a moving truck; and moved himself to New Jersey. He took a huge risk on our love, and made the ultimate sacrifice. And he never, ever mentions it or reminds me of it. Ever.

I love you honey! HAPPY FIRST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY!!!

Ladies; what do you love most about your fiance/husband? Comment here.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

The Perfect Proposal #7: Back From Iraq

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST

If you thought getting back from Iraq safe and sound is a blessing on its own, throw in a ring and a wedding proposal. Here's how one woman handled it!

Something Old, Something New...

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EDT

We all know the saying: Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue. Each item in this poem represents a good luck token for the bride if she carries them on her weddng day. The Something Old represents the continuance of the bride's past, the Something New means hope for the bride's future, the Something Borrowed is an item from a happily married friend/family member whose good luck in marriage is carried over to the bride, and the Something Blue symbolizes love and fidelity.

Here are some ideas you can use for your wedding:

Something Old:

a handkerchief tied to your garter

gloves

purse

brooch

your gown

Something New:

lingerie

lipstick

tussy mussy (for your bouquet)

stockings

tiara

Something Borrowed:

shawl

choker

high heels

hair clips

nail polish

Something Blue:

garter

hydrangea in your bouquet

underwear

ribbon around your bouquet

sapphire necklace

I Have a Proposal for You ...

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EDT

The Proposal. It seems like such a formal word for something that is so personal, doesn't it? A Proposal sounds like some sort of business transaction between two corporatations, rather than the beginning of a lifelong commitment to a new life together.

There are so many "stereotypical" proposals that we always hear about. The classic baseball game proposal where the question is posted on the giant screen for all the crowd to see. To me; if I were a guy, that would be way too stressful. How can you enjoy the game? You have to constantly look at that screen, waiting for the 2 second message to appear. And you have to make damn sure that SHE sees the message too. What if she goes to the ladies room for the 10th time? What if she just isn't looking? Too much pressure. Or how about the "putting the ring inside the food at a restaurant" proposal? This one just scares me. A ring inside my mashed potatoes? I don't know about you, but when I eat potatoes, I'm not taking each bite with precaution just in case there is an engagement ring stuffed in there! What if I choke and swallow the ring? Again, too much could go wrong here. It's like a potential comedy of errors.

And ladies, let's admit it; we look forward to the proposal. Some of us dream about it; even picturing or hoping for specific scenarios to take place on that momentous day. We also love hearing about other proposals too, right? Whenever one of your friend's gets engaged, what is the first thing you say? "Oh congratulations! How did he propose?" Thats the first thing YOU say. The first thing your male significant other says is something sarcastic like, "So you're finally walking the plank, huh?" or "Giving her the rights to your balls, eh?" or the overdramatic and badly acted, "Don't do it, man!! Don't do it!!!!" Yes, men. We see right through you.

Why? Because we know that secretly; somewhere deep down inside your manly self, you like the proposal. You like coming up with something extra-special for the love of your life; something you know she will love. I have seen some normally unromantic men come up with some amazing proposals in my time. My own husband is someone I would classify as not terribly romantic; and his Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree proposal was one of the most romantic and beautiful nights of my entire life. Of course, it was also one of the LAST romantic nights of my life; but that's a blog for another time ....

So what makes the perfect marriage proposal? I think that depends on who you are as a couple. The key to knowing how to propose marriage is truly knowing your girl and your relationship. What kind of people are you? Is she shy or outgoing? Would she love or be embarassed by a grand gesture in front of lots of people? What are your hobbies together? Some of the greatest proposals come from simply utilizing the things you like to do. For example, someone who runs marathons might propose with a large sign at the Finish line of a big race. If you both love movies, you might create a mini film for your fiance about your story as a couple, and at the end, you propose into the camera. A good friend of mine is also a fellow comedian; and he proposed to his fiance (now wife) on the stage at Gotham Comedy Club, during his standup comedy routine. It is all about who you are, and what you think your partner would appreciate. A lot of people like to make it private, while others prefer to propose in front of their entire family, maybe at a gathering like New Year's Eve or Thanksgiving.

Like rings, proposals come in all shapes and sizes. Another friend of mine has a husband who is very laid back and mellow in personality. His proposal was very lowkey and down to earth. They were sitting in their car coming back from dinner, and he simply told her he had something for her in the trunk. Then he pulled out the engagement ring out of a paper bag and said something like, "Here. So will you?" My friend made the point that although some women would have been disappointed by this non-event, she thought it was sweet because it was "just like him" to do something like that. It was pure to who he is. And that is what speaks to someone. Who you are.

So really, there is no perfect proposal. There are endless ways for a man to propose to his fiance. I think if you can capture the truth in that moment of who you are; then you have given a proposal that she will remember forever.

Men, this is your big moment! Trust me, if you do it right; her entire family and friends will love you forever. Everywhere you go, you will be the big hero for giving such a great proposal. That is exactly what happened to my husband. He was like a celebrity. "So, tell us the story of how you proposed..... Oh, how romantic! .... Oh Kelley is sooo lucky!"

And I am. But more importantly, so was he. Why? Because the proposal is it for you men. That is all you are responsible for when it comes to the wedding. Give a nice proposal and then show up in the tux ready to get married. That is it. So after you give your amazing proposal; you can then feel free to sit back, relax, and observe as your future wife plans the entire wedding. Alone. We will see you in about a year at the alter.

P.S. If you show up looking as hot as the guy in this picture, let's be honest, it doesn't really matter HOW you propose, we will say "Yes!"

Tell us your proposal story. How did he ask you and what did you think? Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

What If?

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

So weddings are all fun, fabulous, and momentous occasions we want to remember fondly for a lifetime. No one ever wants to talk about the “what if.” Shhh…don’t tell anyone, but I actually want to talk (or whisper) about the “what if.” In an attempt to learn something from tragedy, let’s pause from the fun (if only for a second) and prepare for the unknown.

Much of California burns today and many landmarks have been, and threaten to be, destroyed. From the Castle in Malibu to Southern California churches and homes, many no longer exist. What if your wedding was set for this weekend? What if? Of course we hope this never happens to you; and hope that no events are affected by these fires (or any other for that matter), but take a moment and think about the possibility. What would you do? Well, you would really want a Plan B.

Wedding insurance is a growing trend and a good option if you ever have to enact a Plan B. Companies like WedSafe (and even many homeowners’ policies) offer low premiums to protect against not only bad weather and unforeseen disasters, but also lesser evils like damage your guests cause to your venue after a night of too much fun and celebration. Something to not only discuss with your spouse-to-be, but something to budget into your bottom line!

While I was a skeptic at first, singing the mantra that “this could never happen to me;” I am now a convert, and a firm believer of expecting the best but preparing for the worst on such an important day. Why would you spend a year of planning and oodles of money and not spend a moment and a few extra dollars to protect yourselves? It’s likely that you’ll never have to enact that coverage, possibly even forgetting you have it; but at the same time, isn’t it nice to know, in the back of your mind, that it exists? You have insurance for your cars, your homes, your health, and oftentimes your job, but not for the single most important day of your life? Put it that way, and of course you want it! What better gift could you give yourself or your fiancé on your wedding day, but total piece of mind?

Whether your big day is affected by these fires or not, let’s take this day and this opportunity to remember what really matters about your wedding – the love you share for one another and the times you will cherish with your friends and families…this is what makes a wedding - not the budget, the flowers, or even the band.

Our thoughts are with those in California!!

Confession of the Day

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 15:46:15 EDT

"My son threw up all over the carpet the other night. I left it there hoping the dog would eat it."

Victoria and Earl's Wedding Blog - "My Bachelorette Night!"

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 11:21:40 EDT

My Bachelorette Night

Although I had two bachelorette parties, one with the Bears - my fave group of guys of which I'm one *teehee* - and one with my true blue girls, I'll blog about the bachelorette night with my girls.

One Friday after work, my matron of honor, Maxine, one of my wedding coordinators, Isis, and one of my bridesmaids, Robin, bum rushed me at my job and picked me up to begin the festivities on a rainy night in New York City. Before leaving, they bestowed upon me a silver tiara, a black feather boa and a custom made pink tee shirt that proclaimed "Queen Victoria" across the front. After they presented me with my Good Girl / Bad Girl wand, we were off!

Knowing that I've never responded well to strippers or anything of that kind (not that I'm a prude - it just seems a little pointless to me) they planned the perfect night of mental debauchery. They took me to a location called Second on Second where we imbibed the finest liquors, ate the most fattening fried foods and partook in the fun of Karaoke together with some close friends that joined us, despite the fact that sugar melts in the rain. We sang everything from Madonna's Material Girl to the B-52's Love Shack! We let it all hang out and laughed out loud and screamed at the top of our lungs. The going away party that was being held behind us decided to join us in our fun and we sang songs together and acted a fool!

Just when I thought that we couldn't possibly have any more fun I was whisked away into one of the cars and taken to the downstairs lounge of Tribeca Cinemas where the Freedom Party NYC was in full swing. No... not a political rally - but the BEST party in NYC for the 30 something crowd who fancies the music of their youth. They barely play ANY current music - they feature music produced pre 1999 :) We met more of our friends in the VIP area where they had been warming it up in anticipation of my arrival and we roger rabbit-ed, running-manned and wopped the night away with several new friends we met at the Cinema. Hours went by and I danced and laughed until I thought I needed to lay down and catch my breath.

At that point, I was lovingly delivered home with great memories the way I'd always hoped for - one last hurrah with my all my closest friends filled with song, laughter, and dancing in which we could all participate!

Signature Cocktails: Chocolate Martini

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 10:58:58 EDT

Chocolate Martini

Serves 4

8 oz. Absolut Vanilla

8 oz. Kahlua

4 oz. light creme

Chocolate shavings for garnish

Raw sugar for the rims

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, mix the Absolut, Kahlua, and creme until frothy. To sugar rims of glasses, pour the sugar into a shallow dish, wet the rims and dip into the sugar coating evenly. Strain the Absolut, Kahlua, and creme into glasses and serve.

It’s a wedding after all, so who doesn’t want to indulge in a bit of delectable, rich, chocolate while at the same time having a cocktail? This sweet libation is the perfect way to have your guests indulge in dessert before the meal! Try serving them during cocktails, but also after dinner to replace the costly after-dinner liqueurs and dessert bars. These fancy drinks, along with cake and coffee, should complete the reception in high style. To carry the sweet theme, serve chocolates with the coffee.

The Perfect Proposal #6: A Fairytale Proposal

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

What do you get when you combine 1 month of planning, 2 weeks of rehearsals, 7 musicians, 3 dancers, 2 aerialists, 4 tumblers, 2 guards, 9 technicians, 4 camera people, and 1 guy and his girlfriend. Wow. Extravagant. Over the top. Amazing. Fabulous. Just watch this one.

Confession of the Day

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 10:18:13 EDT

"I tell my fiance I have a really low libido thanks to my medications. I'm lying. I have a very high libido, but I always choose to masturbate by myself rather than sleep with him. He just doesn't turn me on, I don't think this engagement is going to last."

Confession of the Day

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EDT

"He tells me everyday how much he loves me, how important I am to him, how much I mean to him. And yet, I am constantly checking up on him by snooping his email and text messages, driving by his work, trying to catch him in lies. What in God’s name is wrong with me? I don’t WANT to find that he’s cheating on me or lying to me, but I am so damn afraid of it and I don’t want it to sneak up and bite me in the ass one day. Why can’t I trust him? I never tell anyone out loud, but I absolutely HATE this aspect of myself, and I have no idea what to do to stop it."

"MY WIFE IS A NAG!" and other stereotypes about Marriage

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

While I was searching Youtube today for some "funny" wedding related videos to use in my blogs here at Brideorama, I started to get extremely frustrated. And not only me, but my husband; who was watching these videos with me. We would open one, give it a minute or two, listen intently awaiting the big payoff laughter to ensue; and then give up, soon realizing there was NO laughter to be had. Why? Because 9 out of 10 of these videos were about the same old thing; men complaining that their wives NAG them. Two men sitting around talking; one telling the other about his incredibly nagging wife. One sketch comedy show did a bit about a fake product that listened to the nagging and told you what to say as a reply for a small fee. Another scene showed a woman accidentally cutting herself while chopping vegetables. When she begged her husband to please call 911, he lazily picked up the phone saying, " I suppose you want me to clean up this mess while you're laying around in the hospital too, right?" I will not post the video here, because I do not want to put any of my readers through such painfully unfunny "comedy." The fact that the people in the video look like they just graduated from the Conrad Banes School of Acting doesn't exactly help things. But I digress...

Look, I have a sense of humor. I am a comedian, so I have a very good sense of humor actually. So watching these videos does not offend me as a wife or as a woman. They offend me as a comedian! (Much like Seinfeld said on his show when he found out his dentist was becoming Jewish so he could tell Jewish jokes. "So you're offended as a Jew?" Kramer asked. "No," Jerry answered, "I'm offended as a comedian!" - I feel your pain Jerry) I just happen to think that there are a whole slew of stereotypes floating around out there about marriage; most of which are severely untrue. At least from where I stand. I mean c'mon; your wife nags you? Really? That's the best joke you can come up with about marriage? I am sure that some wives do nag; just as some husbands are probably lazy pieces of crap who deserve to be nagged at! But that is certainly not what I see all around me, or in my own marriage. I am not a nag. I do not treat my husband as if I am his mother. He already has one of those, and as far as I know, he doesn't want another one. So unless you have something NEW to say on the topic of nagging wives, let's just put away that annoying word for a long time, shall we?

And while we are on the topic, here are some other stereotypes about marriage that annoy me:

MARRIED WOMEN NEVER WANT TO HAVE SEX

This is another old, boring, tired topic. The whole "I have a headache" thing went out a long time ago, didn't it? I mean honestly, who actually says that anymore? Nobody that I know. Or, "I'm not in the mood." Sure, sometimes women feel this way, but men make it sound as if women are saying this every single day. Personally; if you want to know the truth, I am in the mood MUCH more than my husband most times. Anyone else out there with me? (I really hope he doesn't read this) I think that the whole idea that sex stops when you get married is just crazy. If anything, it should get better with time spent together. I also think that when it comes to sex, it all depends on the couple. Every relationship is different. Couple A might be happy having sex once a week, while couple B is happy having it five times per week. I am not going to say where we fall in that range, but the concept of an "average" amount of times to have sex is ridiculous. There is no such thing as "average." Everyone is different.

WOMEN GAIN WEIGHT AFTER THEY GET MARRIED

This is another one that I hear men joking about all the time; how their wives gained 10 or 20 pounds over time. Usually they are having this conversation as they lounge around on the couch watching football together; their baseball hats covering their balding heads, and their oversized sweatshirts and jeans hiding the huge gut underneath. You know what? People gain weight. It happens. It's called life. So unless you are looking in the mirror and seeing a young strapping Brad Pitt staring back, please don't expect your wives to be some perfect little Barbie doll while you exercise your remote control arm to put on the latest Playstation game. Really, I think any man who criticizes his wife for gaining a few pounds is only hiding the insecurities they feel about their own self. I know; that was really deep. Don't mistake me for Dr. Phil. This is why I have so much respect for couples who work out together, lose weight together, stay healthy together. It says so much about a relationship when you are both making these things an important part of your life. Together.

THE MAN LOSES HIS FREEDOM WHEN HE GETS MARRIED

This one kind of makes me mad. The whole "walking the plank" thing that men joke about with marriage; the whole "whatever you say dear, you're always right dear" thing. Again, if I hadn't heard this same hack joke a thousand times, I might laugh. But it's old now, and not all that funny. I do not think this is true at all. Put it this way: if any man out there feels that he has lost his sense of self by getting married; that you have no say in anything that happens between you and your wife; well that is your fault! You are choosing to be passive and spineless in your relationship, and you are letting your wife walk all over you. If you have something to say, men; say it! If there is something you'd like to do, tell us! Really, we would love to know these things. Usually when my husband is silent about something, (where to go for dinner, what we should do over the weekend, etc) I will just take it upon myself to make a decision and make plans for us. If I didn't, we would never go anywhere, ever!!! I'm serious. We would just sit in a chair, day after day, staring at one another. So, if you don't have anything to offer, then don't accuse us of taking too much control. Get it? Good.

And now I shall leave you with the shortest of the lame "marriage" videos that I scanned through today. It doesn't seem fair that I had to suffer alone by watching all of these; so we will compromise. I am sharing with you the shortest, most painless of the bunch. But it's still pretty bad. This one comes from A DAN AMONGST DANS. Enjoy!

What marriage stereotypes do you hate? Leave me your comments here.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 16:14:54 EDT

"The banner on my cell phone screen says "Property of the bride." Hey, I'm only going to be engaged once. "

A Wedding Story

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

So part of what I've been doing here at Brideorama lately is searching for funny, creative wedding related video clips; and then posting them along with a blog or reaction. This job has been quite challenging as of late however; due to the lack of original and funny material out there to share with you all. So when something makes me laugh, I have to pass it along.

This video is from a sketch called "A Wedding Story," and it comes from the hilarious MAD TV. The featured couple here tells their wedding story; which includes why they had to postpone their wedding (you'll never guess), as well as their very strange wedding theme (hint: it has to do with outer space). If you are planning a wedding and know the stress that can be involved with that process, you will probably get a good laugh at the way the bride defends her position to hold the wedding on their original wedding day; even though it is obvious that they should postpone. And the male actor's reactions and delivery cracks me up.

The video also brings to mind something that I love talking about and dissecting: stupid or strange wedding themes. Let me just say I love wedding themes, as long as they have a purpose. I had a wedding theme: Christmas. So I definately have nothing against themes; as long as they make sense. It is when they start getting weird that it makes me laugh. I actually know a person who had a wedding theme of DEATH. Yes, you heard me. Death. Maybe it's just me, but I thought that was called a funeral. Needless to say, I didn't know this person well enough to be invited to the creepfest. I really wish I was there though; because then I could come back and share with you all how bizarre it was. So instead, I will just mock it anyway.

I hope you enjoy this very funny video; and if you have any wild wedding themes to share that you have seen firsthand, please comment about them here. Thanks!

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Wedding Centerpiece: All Aglow

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:04:59 EDT

The All Aglow Candlelight is magical and sensuous, and adds the perfect accent for a wedding centerpiece. The soft flickering adds a glow to the table, and the candlelight will put your guests in a most flattering light. This sassy arrangement gives modern flair to classic candles with its combination of a trifle dish, dot stickers, iridescent vase filler, and shimmery pillar candles. All of which were found at a national chain store in one quick shop. The dots were found in the office aisle, but look in the scrap booking aisle for a variety of colors and shapes to go with your particular color scheme. Candles can be expensive, but I lucked out and found these on clearance. I especially like the pearlized finish, but any plain white 4-inch pillar will do. Scented candles, while they smell nice, can prove to be more costly, and in addition the scent can overpower the meal.

The simplicity of this arrangement makes for a fun and approachable table, one that is inexpensive and easy to make but will shine the night away.

To make the All Aglow Centerpiece you'll first need to get the following materials:

1 glass trifle dish

3 3-4" iridescent pillar candles

1 2.75lbs. bag of vase filler

1 package of bright colored dots

The Steps:

1) Once your materials are assembled, first wipe down the trifle dish. Peel and stick the dots on in a pattern as shown, start with the dot at top and work your way from top to bottom so that the second and third dot in the row are at a diagonal. Continue until the entire trifle dish is covered in the pattern.

2) Open the filler and pour in until about 2 inches high. Twist the dish from side to side to even the sand-like filler out.

3) Place the candles in a triangular pattern and twist slightly to secure them in the filler.

4) Pour the remainder of the filler around the candles. Be sure to pour evenly. Again, twist the trifle dish slightly to even out the filler.

5) Light the candles and enjoy!

Putting together an arrangement doesn’t have to be costly or time consuming. All of the supplies were bought in one shop, and the assembling was quick and easy too. The whole arrangement came to just under $20.00. The Trifle Dish was $11.99, 3 Candles ($1.15each) were $ 3.45, Vase Filler was $2.99, and the Dots were $1.47.

Note: I found that the consistency of the vase filler was very fine, so if you need more, sugar would make an ideal substitute. It is also gritty like sand, and does come in the natural color as well, if you want to use a beach inspired theme but don’t live near the shore. Place a smattering of shells in the sand for a true washed ashore effect. On that note, there are many other ideas here; buttons, berries, tiny gems or even small butterflies would make fun added accents.

Using Your Wedding to Help Others (Dear Danille...)

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 10:18:35 EDT

In this week's GET ADVICE section, Danille had a terrific question. She wondered if there were places other than Ebay where a bride could go to sell or buy used wedding dresses (like a wedding thrift shop). She also asked if there was anything productive she and other brides could do with any reusable items after the wedding is over. As Danille stated, "I really hate all the waste." This is a great point Danille; and I completely agree with you. I hate all the waste too. The good news is that there is something we can do about it. You can make your wedding whatever you want it to be; and if giving to others is important to you, there are several ways to make that happen.

I did some research on the good ole "internets"; as George W. Bush would say, and found a whole buttload of excellent information and websites where giving is the name of the game. As far as wedding thrift shops go, yes; they do exist in some cities and towns. If your city does not have one, wedding dresses can be brought in any thrift or consignment shop that is near you. Since it would take me all week to list every city's local thrift shop here, I will instead give you this helpful website to find the nearest location. www.consignmentshops.com. If you don't feel like walking yourself down to the nearest store, you can use the "internets" right from your home. At www.usedweddingdresses.com, you can search through hundreds of dresses, jewelry, and accessories for your wedding. The best part is that nothing is over $250.

In my research, I also found a number of great organizations where you can sell or buy wedding dresses; or give them to people in need. In addition, you can also find many other ways to use your wedding to help others. Here's how:

At "Making Memories," go to the section called "Brides Against Breast Cancer"; and read about how to donate your wedding dress to a woman with breast cancer getting married. Go to www.makingmemories.com

At "Just Give," you can do several things. You can sign up for their "charity registry" program, where your wedding guests have the option of choosing their favorite charity and making a donation in lue of a wedding gift. Or you yourself can make a donation on behalf of your guests as your wedding "favor." The best part about this is that you and your guests can choose any charity you want, and everything is optional. In addition, you can donate wedding dresses (or bridesmaids, flower girl dresses, etc), flowers; even leftover food to organizations in need. There are many charities to choose from, so you really have the power to do whatever speaks to you with this organization. www.justgive.org

At "Heavenly Angels," you can literally become one by donating your dress to a grieving family who lost an infant baby. The company uses the dress material and fabric to "create beautiful burial garments and other memorial items" for babies who passed away. Garments are given to local hospitals who then present them to the grieving families; who are able to see their babies wrapped in precious garments one last time. The garments are also used in funerals and ceremonies. On the site, you can view pictures and samples of some past wedding gowns that were transformed into "wraps" or small garments for infants. This is a horrible thing to have to think about; but what a wonderful thing to be able to do with your wedding gown. For more information, go to www.heavenlyangelsinneed.com

Another great way to use your wedding for good: GO GREEN! No, not the NY Jets; the environment! There are plenty of ways that you can use your wedding to help keep our environment a safer, better place; and be insured that you are not wasting anything. At the online organization "EcoMall," there are many excellent suggestions on how to make your wedding more green or eco-friendly. And don't worry; none of them include inviting Al Gore. (Can you imagine how boring that toast would be? Zzzzzzzzz ....) www.ecomall.com

If you have any additional suggestions on how to use your wedding to help; or organizations that you would recommend to others, comment here.

Email Kelley at Kelley@brideorama.com

Mile High Wedding

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

What better place than Vegas for a wedding? It is the nuptials capital of America after all! From Nicky Hilton, Britney Spears, and most recently Pam Anderson and Rick Solomon, couples continue to flock to sin city to say I Do.

This past week, Sir Richard Branson took the Vegas wedding one step further. A wedding ABOVE Las Vegas! On his Virgin America madden voyage flight from San Francisco to Las Vegas, one happy couple were wed (by Branson himself who had previously been officially ordained). The couple said their I Do’s at 35,000 feet among friends, family, and the invited paparazzi of course. While the bride walked down the aisle of the plane, Branson conducted the ceremony on the flight attendant intercom. Other than some tight spaces, it appeared to be a fairly tame fete. That is until wedding cake was severed in the arrival terminal. With hundreds watching, show girls in toe, the cake landed on the face of the groom (curtsey of Branson). Talk about a Vegas wedding! And you thought there were no more original venues around.

Photos by Robert Evans Studios

Quality Moments on your Wedding Day

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EDT

Remember the remake of the film "Father of the Bride?" You know, the Steve Martin version that most of us have seen. I always get sad when I watch the wedding and reception scene of that film. The father has begrudgingly gone out of his way and his budget to not only pay for his daughter's lavish wedding, but also to offer his home and gigantic backyard as a reception venue. When he gets excited to give his daughter the new espresso machine she wanted for her engagement gift, he is cut off at the pass when the in-laws pull up in the brand new CAR they bought the couple unexpectedly. He is pushed aside often by the wedding planner (the hilarious Martin Short); who has moved all the furniture, rearranged the entire house, and left the father utterly confused. And then what happens on the wedding day? The bride gets married, dances the night away, cuts the cake, throws the bridal bouquet, and waves goodbye to her guests before jumping into the get-away limo ... and somehow her daddy just misses every single moment of it. He is running around, trying to get through the huge crowd, and cannot get to his daughter. He never gets to say goodbye, and she ends up calling him from the airport on their way to the honeymoon to tell her father she loves him. That scene always gets to me. One, because I'm a sap .. and two, because I did NOT want that to happen at my own wedding! I mean really. How do you go the entire reception without seeing your own father? Granted this was a huge reception with probabyl 300 or 400 people; whereas mine was only 100 guests. However, even with a smaller crowd, you run the risk of not seeing everyone there. I never wanted my wedding experience to be a huge blur that I couldn't remember because everything was so rushed and happened so fast. I wanted to make CERTAIN that I got to spend quality time with my immediate family, my guests, and most importantly; my new husband. So here are a few things we did to ensure that everyone got a little piece of US on that beautiful, wonderful evening:

A MOMENT ALONE PLEASE ....

Our venue coordinator was a genius. Why? Because she had the foresight to know that my new husband and I would probably like a minute or two alone before all the madness began downstairs. (our ceremony and reception were at the same location.) Seconds after the ceremony ended; as we walked back down the aisle together, a newly married couple; she led us both up the stairs to the Bridal Suite and shut the door behind her. When we got up there, she had set aside a plate of the appetizers that would soon be passed around downstairs during cocktail hour, champagne, strawberries, fresh fruit, and water. Our coordinator pretty much then ordered us to stay up there for 10minutes or so while the cocktail hour began. (we opted to attend our own cocktail hour. I didn't see any reason not to, as I didn't want to miss any of the party.) I remember her saying to us, "I'm going to leave you two up here for about 10 or 15minutes. I want you to relax, take in what just happened, and enjoy it. Because when you go down those stairs, it is going to get crazy. This might be the only time you have to spend alone together the entire evening, so use it wisely." Then she left. It was amazing, one of the best moments of the day. We held each other, talked about how nervous we were before the ceremony, and just relished in our happiness. We could hear the music downstairs, our friends celebrating and eating, and it was just a beautiful few moments of calm before the storm. So however you have to do it, make some time to spend ALONE with your new husband. Even if its only 10 minutes! For some couples, this happens in the limo ride. Since we didn't have limos and everything was in one place, we used the Bridal Suite for our moments alone.

KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY ....

If spending time with your family and friends is important to you on your wedding day, then try to include those people in your wedding as much as possible. If they are not in the wedding party, there are plenty of other ways to make them a part of the event. We had a tiny wedding party; Best Man and Matron of Honor only. But in addition to that, we used our friends and family's special talents to keep them close to us on our day. My mother was our co-officiant, so she was a huge part of our ceremony. My oldest childhood friend was our ceremony musician; so when I walked down the aisle, I got to glance over at her and hear the sounds of her flute with acoustic guitar as I approached my new husband. My dad and I both sing; so we did a duet medley for our guests during the cocktail hour; as well as the father daughter dance. My brother and his new wife were our two ushers; and they both sat people and handed out programs. My husband's sister did a reading during the ceremony. So we found ways to include most of the people who were important to us; and this way it guaranteed that we would have at the very least, a small moment with those people during the day.

TABLE FOR SIXTEEN PLEASE ...

Since we had such a small wedding party, we were able to have a "family table" instead of a head table, something I really didn't want. Our table looked just like everyone else's, except it was much bigger. At our table; we had me and my husband, our siblings and their wives, our parents, and our Best Man, Matron of Honor, and their spouses. This gave us a lot of time while eating to spend with our families; those that were closest to us and those that helped us put this whole day together. It also helped for my husbands family to meet my family, some for the very first time, and brought us all closer together. I am really happy that we did that instead of sitting alone just me and him, or with only our wedding party. I couldn't imagine not sitting with our parents and families on that day. It made the day feel like a big family get together; and I left the reception without any regrets.

Share your ideas for spending quality time with your guests at your wedding. What worked for you that allowed you more moments with friends and family?

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:11:39 EDT

"I can't wait to get my wedding photos even though I know I'll be unhappy about how fat I look. I'm much skinnier in my mind than I am in real life."

The Perfect Proposal #5: A Knight In Shining Armor

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

For some of us, our dream included a knight in shining armor. And for Jane, this actually came true... on her birthday....

Megan and Greg Wedding Blog

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EDT

Greg and I went to Hawaii (Kauai and Maui) for our honeymoon and had the most amazing time! It was absolute paradise - I recommend both island to honeymooners! In addition to listening to friends recommendations for places to visit, we talked to the locals - they told us about some amazing beaches and restaurants.

We live in NY and decided to stop in San Francisco on the way home to break up the flight. I had never been and Greg had been once, years ago. Other than buying the ferry tickets to Alcatraz, we had nothing planned - we went with the flow and ended up having great stories to tell! One night we ended up eating dinner at the table next to some of the Yankees (who were in town playing the Giants)!

I kept a journal which I know is a little dorky but I definitely recommend - I recorded what we did each day and also funny memories that I likely would have already forgotten, plus it will be so fun to read on our 50th wedding anniversary!

Videographer: Starlight Productions

Band: In-Transit Music and Entertainment 

Gown and Veil: Le Bella Couture Atelier  

Photographer: Bella Pictures

Reception: Hilton Rye Town 

IT'S OVER, NOW WHAT?!

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 13:00:00 EDT

This hilarious video from recent bride & comedienne Giulia Rozzi, reminds us we can't take ourselves too seriously. Every once in while we gotta look in the mirror, get a grip, and laugh at ourselves. We're women and thus slaves to our emotions. Can we help it? No. Do we want to? No! We're chicks and divas and drama queens no matter who you are. Look in a medical book, it's in our DNA.

There's no denying that wedding days are all about the bride. Wait, what? Lifelong bonds of love? Rejoicing in finding a soulmate? Yeah yeah, it's about that too, but first it's all about the brides. But don't fret when its all over, and don't hang on to it like your going to lose it. If you love something you let it go, right? Besides in a couple of years you can renew your vows! Here is my effort to define PBD:

Post Bridal Depression–unabridged* [pohst brayd-l di-presh-uh n]–noun
1. The act of depression after one's own wedding or time of being a bride.
2. The state of being depressed at having nothing to do and living inside a void in which there is nothing to plan, caterers to consult, colors to match, or honey moons to run off to.
3. A state of dejection when your friends no longer want to talk about your wedding, look at wedding videos, watch slides of honeymoon pictures, or go over comical happenings during the wedding that were unexpected with hilarious results. note* Various acts of eye rolling, huffing, or pouting may ensue from either parties.
4. A feeling of great injustice as the day you've been dreaming of since you were a little girl and planned for months in which it would be the greatest day of your life and you could tell for generations to come has passed and incomprehensible feelings of "I don't know what to do with myself now" have lodged inside your poor restless being.
5. A period of time in which a post wedding brides may try and explore various activities but not limited to– scrap booking, dieting, hair dyeing, cooking foreign cuisine, watching an extensive amount of romantic comedies, game hunting, having babies, or reading and/or commenting on bridal blog posts.
6. A demonic being that possesses post wedding brides to make her sad that she is no longer the "Belle of the Ball" even though she should always know she is the star of her own life and there are always more adventures to come.

Did I miss anything? Let us know by posting a comment below!

Tarina Tarantino Bridal Line...with Hello Kitty!

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

In need of some cool jewelry and accessories for your wedding day. Check out Tarina Tarantino!

Her new bridal line has so many different looks to suit every bride.

Going for a classic look? Check out her pearl and crystal earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and purses.

Want more of a vintage feel? Check out her Hippie Princess line:

Simple, yet chic? Check out her flower hair clips and matching earrings

For the bride who wants to go just plain crazy, check out her Hello Kitty bridal line!

There is something for everyone. Also, a great site for bridal party gifts. Enjoy!

Confession of the Day

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 11:58:36 EDT

"I didn't like my hair on my wedding day, either. The funny thing was, I didn't care. It was kind of like "well, whadaya know? I don't like my hair. BUT I'M ABOUT TO MARRY THE MAN OF MY DREAMS!!" It just seemed like such a small, insignificant detail. It sometimes annoys me when I look at the wedding pictures, but then I think "Yeah, but look at the size of the smile on my face!" In reality, I coulda been bald and still looked great - that kind of happy makes everyone gorgeous!"

Do You Take This Bird...

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

... To be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to place inside a cage? In sickness and in health? To feed it birdseed while you dine on sirloin and grilled veggies? That seems to be the question being asked in this second clip from the classic DEAN MARTIN SHOW. In this video, Dean Martin wants to know from a much thinner, younger version of Dom DeLuise whether or not he can marry his bird. A hilarious, insane discussion then happens about marrying different animals. My personal favorite line from this video:

Dean: How do you marry a giraffe?

Dom: With a 16 foot priest.

This is just classic comedy any way you look at it. And they were so much sillier back then. This is my latest choice from the many wedding related video classics! Enjoy!

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Signature Cocktails: Mulled Cider

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 12:11:37 EDT

Mulled Cider

Serves 10

Large bowl or cooler

10 cups apple cider

2 cups bourbon

5 cinnamon sticks plus more for garnish if desired

40 whole cloves

12 orange slices

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

3 small apples

In a large saucepan, combine the cider, cinnamon sticks, 10 cloves, 6 orange slices, the ginger and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, stud the apples with the remaining cloves. Strain the spiced cider into the bowl or cooler. Add the bourbon, apples, and remaining spices. Serve immediately. Note: for a non-alcoholic cider, omit the bourbon.

There’s nothing like drinking something warm on cool Autumnal days. This cocktail is sure to take the chill out of your guests with its soft spicy tones and aroma. Perfect for serving at an outdoor ceremony, or just after at the reception. If you’re planning a rooftop or park side ceremony, you don’t have to be fancy, you can make a big batch in a cooler and serve it in nice paper cups!

Confession of the Day

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"Sometimes my husband annoys me so much, I want to punch and kick him in his f**king face."

Engagement Party aka Theme Party

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Engagement parties are a great platform to show your fun, funky side without the formality of the wedding. Toss etiquette out the window and go with a theme. This could encompass a unique venue (think bowling alley, silent movie theater, or favorite pub), or for those on a tighter budget, get your guests involved in creating the atmosphere and spare on location. When getting your guests involved in your theme, don't make it too difficult, you want them to equally enjoy themselves (or in some cases, mock themselves). The most fun I’ve had at a fete thus far? In full bridesmaid fashion at a “wear your worst bridesmaid dress” themed-bash (and of course make your date match in equally as ugly faire). Trust me, your guests will let go once they have let go of their fashion sense! And it's a great conversation starter for mingling families and new friends.

Earlier this year People Magazine published a real weddings issue and in it we found some inspiration for this daring theme:

At the end of this night, what better way to say la vie then with an impromptu “trash the dress” photo session – maids and all. These could turn out to be some of your most treasured memories and images of the evening.

Photo by Koontz Photography.

Confession of the Day

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"We love each other so much. He can't stop his great studies. I can't stop my starting career. We are in two different countries. We are running out of solutions."

Wedding Themes!

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 12:07:53 EDT

A great way to customize your wedding is to create a theme that has meaning to both you and your future husband.

For instance, if you met in Paris, why not have a Paris themed wedding with croissants at your cocktail hour and each table named for a different site? Some things to think about:

Where was your first date? If you went to a hookah bar, have a Middle Eastern wedding with cous cous and gold decor

What TV shows, movies, or music do you both like? If you love mob movies, go for a Bonnie and Clyde theme with lots of red, black, and white

Memorable vacations? try a cruise theme with umbrellas in drinks and beach ball displays

Activities you both enjoy? try a football theme with buffalo wing, pigs in a blanket, and small subs for hor dourves

My husband and I both love Alice in Wonderland. We decided this would be the perfect theme for our wedding. We tried to incorporate the theme into all aspects of our wedding.

Flowers-We had playing cards in our centerpiece and had very brightly colored flowers.

Cake-We had a topsy-turvey cake made and decorated it with bright colors and whimsical designs.

Color Scheme-we chose red, purple, lime green, fushia, lemon yellow, and orange to evoke a storybook feel

Ice Sculpture-The White Rabbit

Place Cards-We printed pictures of the various characters and had a caligrapher write their names on the card. Ex. Dinah, Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter

The Perfect Proposal #4: Proposal by Plane

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Next time you go to the beach, and a plane flies by....make sure you look - because whether or not YOU'RE the one that's getting proposed to, it still makes the perfect proposal for someone!

Confession of the Day

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"The venue could burn, flowers wilt, and no one show up, but if he thinks I look gorgeous, my day is made. MADE, I tell ya. "

Lisa and Dave's Wedding Blog

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 12:00:00 EDT

My bachelorette party consisted of many of my favorite things in life: friends, food, stories from the past, and a fancy hotel. The dinner component of my bachelorette party was phenomenal: friends told This Would Have been Your Life if Married ____ stories, the food was delicious, the company was spectacular, and I even got to wear a tiara. What more could a bride-to-be want?

However, what took place before the dinner part - well, that was unusual and memorable and I know I will be telling the tales from that part for many years to come. We arrived at The Marriott Marquis in Times Square, settled in a little with champagne, snacks, etc. and relaxed on the comfy couches. Then we heard a knock on the door, and two young women walked in. One was a sex therapist that my bridesmaids had hired for the occasion and the other was a journalist/writer for Heeb Magazine. Why was this journalist/writer at your bachelorette party - you ask. Well, I'll tell you. She was writing an article for Heeb on why Jewish girls don't like to give, um, cough, cough, head. And so my bridesmaids and me (7 of us) are all Jewish, and what better place to discuss such a topic than a bachelorette party in an awesome hotel room? She told us she may be using us for her story, however, I never anticipated how much of "us" she'd be using. She referred to us, not by name, but by characteristic: the nervous bride-to-be, the married red-head, the girl with biggest engagement ring. And then, that story was published in Heeb. I have the copy of the issue on my shelf and plan to share the story with my daughter one day. Maybe when she's twenty-five. Or when she's about to have her bachelorette party.

So that's the story of how my bachelorette party was documented, discussed, and published in a trendy magazine.

Confession of the Day

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 15:30:00 EDT

"My fiance's parents are divorced, and can't stand each other. He's afraid that they will be at each other's throats during the wedding. Can't they learn to behave like adults for just one day?"

Conde Nast Bridal Media’s DREAM HOUSE

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 11:45:05 EDT

Hey there!

If you're pre-engaged, engaged or newlywed, you won't want to miss out on this offer!!! Check it out --

NEW YORK, NY (September 12, 2007) – Condé Nast Bridal Media is proud to announce DREAM HOUSE— the first-ever, tour-able show house for pre-engaged, engaged and newlywed couples designed to provide inspiration for their entry into this new lifestage. The house will display the best-in-bridal, beauty, fashion, fitness, registry and home, plus host events with the editors of Brides, Modern Bride, Elegant Bride, Brides.com, and Brides local magazines.

DREAM HOUSE will be open to the public for tours, classes, parties and spa treatments for four full weeks from October 18th – November 15th, 2007. A percentage of proceeds from ticket sales will benefit The I Do Foundation, an organization dedicated to linking engaged couples with charitable giving options for their wedding.

Tours of DREAM HOUSE will feature rooms designed for couples by top designers including Richard Mishaan of Homer, Cathy Hobbs of Apheria and Franck Hodelin, seen on The View. The house will feature the hottest home accessories from JCPenney, Noritake, Bloomingdales, Cuisinart, Pampered Chef, McGuire & Baker and more.

Couples will also have the opportunity to attend special seminars and one-time only events such as cocktail parties with industry insiders and home planning pros including the “Leonardo da Vinci of cakes,” Sylvia Weinstock, top celebrity lifestyle expert David Tutera, NY1’s Valarie D’Elia, celebrity wedding planning Sasha Souza, star hair stylist Mark Garrison and Mark Montano and Cat Wei, designers from the hit WE TV series “She's Moving In”.

Signature Cocktails: Cherry Bomb Weddings

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:49:38 EDT

Cherry Bomb Weddings

Serves 8

Ice cubes

16 oz. gin

4 oz. Lemon juice

4 oz. Grenadine

4 oz. Sugar syrup

Lemon peel for garnish

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker or pitcher filled with ice, mix or shake well until frothy. Strain into Martini glasses and garnish with lemon peel. Serve immediately. To make the sugar syrup, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the liquid is clear, about 5 minutes. Remove form the heat and let cool. The syrup will keep, refrigerated in a sealed jar or container, for up to 1 week. Makes 1 cup.

Cherry Bomb Weddings and the parties that surround them are all about getting together 2 sets of families and friends, to meet, share stories, and most of to celebrate the happy couple. This cocktail is the perfect icebreaker for the job. The color alone calls for a celebration. Great for all the pre-wedding gala events, or to serve as your signature cocktail for you reception. Subtle and smooth, with a light fruit chaser, this cocktail tastes like a cherry vitamin on steroids. Careful not to drink too many of these, because your socks won’t be the only thing that gets knocked off.

Top 11 Ways to Waste Your Money (while planning your wedding)

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

When you get married; there are some things that you absolutely need for the wedding to take place. An officiant, a location, a fiance. There are other things that we all hope to have at our weddings; food, music, good company. You get the idea. On television, weddings are giant elegant affairs with $5000 cakes and $75,000 budgets. In real life however, some if not most of us are looking for any way we can to cut corners; without our wedding appearing like we cut corners. We all want to have a nice wedding, whatever that means to you individually. What we don't want, however, is to be talked into buying things that we absolutely do not need or want for our wedding. What's even worse is when a wedding planner, venue coordinator, or salesperson tries to tell us that we absolutely "must have this" for our wedding. When you are on a budget, you really need to be careful. The problem is, wedding planning makes us all vulnerable to the power of suggestion. So if someone "suggests" that our wedding will look cheap or not elegant enough if we don't purchase a certain item, we may be inclined to listen to them. Well, I am here to tell you that they are lying. Listen to me instead. It will save you a lot of stress, and a whole bunch of money. And my advice is absolutely FREE! So here goes ...

The Top 11 Ways to Waste Your Money While Planning Your Wedding

(translation: the wedding industry and others will try and convince you to buy the following items. If you want them and can afford it, that is great. Go for it! But otherwise, YOU DON'T NEED THESE THINGS! They are super expensive and not at all necessary for your wedding to go off without a hitch.)

1. Cake Server Set:

This is a completely unnecessary item. Yes, they are beautiful; and hey, if someone decides to buy you a nice set for your Shower or an early wedding gift, more power to you. But to go out and buy a special knife and set just for your wedding cake that you will use for literally about 10 seconds on that day seems ridiculous. And expensive. You can just as easily use ANY nice looking knife set to cut the cake with, and noone will know or care. Trust me.

2. Monogrammed Toasting Flutes:

Again, these make a beautiful Shower gift for the Bride and Groom. But some people will actually try and tell you that you NEED special glasses to make your first toast with. Like, if you don't have these specific glasses, your wedding and marriage are bound to fail. First of all, you are normally sitting at a head table or at least far away enough from the guests that noone will even SEE the glasses you are using to toast with. And secondly, just because something is monogrammed doesn't mean it is nicer. Go with whatever works for you. Lots of times, your venue will supply you with glasses anyway, so it's not even an issue.

3. Save the Dates:

Okay, now this one is a bit tricky. The purpose of a Save the Date is to let out of town guests know ahead of time the date of your wedding, so that they can make travel plans early and hopefully have a better chance of being there on your day. So if you have a lot of out of town guests, then Save the Dates MAY be something you want to do. We did them, but only sent them out to out of town guests; not locals. I made them myself, and in total, spent about $40 to do so. The problems come in when your save the dates start becoming more of a hassle and huge expense than they are worth. Invitations are expensive enough; you should not be having to put a lot of money into a simple message telling people when and where your wedding is. If you do them, make them yourself and keep it simple.

4. Personalized Napkins:

Again with the monogramming. To me, this has to be the best scam going. Think about it. Napkins are used for what? Wiping your mouths after eating, right? Well, now you can wipe your mouth with the new married couples names! Isn't that .... gross??? Yes, and stupid. If you are going to put your names on something, please make it something other than the napkins. Also, consider this: napkins with names etched into them: $3.00 each or more. Regular napkins from party store or other place: probably less than $10 for an entire package.

5. Makeup Artist:

Unless you really do not know how to put on your own makeup, I think this is normally a pretty good way to waste your money on your wedding day. Most of us females put our own makeup on every day, and we know what we are doing for the most part. And makeup artists will charge you a fortune as soon as you say the word WEDDING. A better option? Hold a makeup class for your bridal party with a consultant from Mary Kay. They will come to your house, host a gathering, and teach everyone how to do their own makeup on that day. They will talk about skin care and help each individual find colors that best suit their skin tone. And the best part is that the whole thing is FREE. You can buy the skin care product presented, but there is no obligation to do so at all. (my mom is an Independant Sales Director for Mary Kay, and she helped me and my Matron of Honor with our makeup on my wedding day. It was great.)

6. Elegant Guestbook and Pen Set:

Another stupid scam. I am not saying you shouldn't have a guestbook. Of course you should. But there are many options out there at stores like Target, Party Stores, or even JC Penny's, Bed Bath and Beyond, etc. There is no need for a "leather bound book with gold trim" or some other dumb thing that translates into hundred of dollars. The biggest part of this scam is the pen. These people want you to pay a hundred dollars for a pen. It has gold, or feathers, or maybe it even writes your name for you! You can get a pen with the initials of the couple on it! How about a pen that sings to you as you write your signature? You get the point. Its stupid. Its a pen. Don't spend a lot of money on it.

7. Bridal Hairpieces (tiaras, barrettes, combs, etc):

Again, you want a comb to put in your hair? Fine. You can get one for under $10. But say the word WEDDING and suddenly that $10 turns into $30 or more very quickly. Purchasing any sort of hairpieces or accessories at bridal shops is a very good way to waste your money. Often times you can have the same exact pieces handmade for you for much less money. My seamstress made my veil for $15. Bridal stores sell a similar one for over $200. Go to a store that sells hair things, and make your purchases there. There will be a lot of choices, and the price will be much lower.

8. Groom's Cake:

Some couples want to have a Groom's cake. Some brides like surprising their husbands with a special treat just for him. That is great. Again, if you truly want any of the things on this list, that is wonderful and of course you should have them. Just do not let anyone bully you into spending money on something that is truly unnecessary. They will try to tell you that this is the new trend, and everyone is doing it now. Do not fall for it. It is just another way for them to get you spending twice as much as you anticipated. All of those extras add up in the end. Most times, a Groom's cake is chocolate. So instead of an entire seperate cake, why not just make one layer chocolate and one vanilla? Or have chocolate cake with buttercream frosting? There are many options that are much less expensive than doing up a whole seperate cake.

9. Elaborate Pew or Aisle Decorations:

Unless you are getting married inside of a gray, drab building with no hint of color or personality, most rooms have some sort of built-in decor. It is really nice when the aisles or pews are decorated with something subtle and small; and you can purchase great decorations for cheap prices at places like Michael's Craft Store, Target, Walmart, or the Christmas Tree Shops. The issue here is let's not overdue it. My florist tried to sell me on decorating every inch of space for the wedding ceremony with flowers. In the end, I chose to go with 12 seperate floral arrangements. They were used to line the aisle, and then brought over to the reception room to be used as centerpieces. Also, if you have too much going on in the church or the venue room, there won't be any room to walk down the aisle! Remember to leave room for the humans that will be walking toward the alter. Less is more.

10. Bride and Groom Exchanging Gifts:

This is one of those things that some people will try and make you feel like you NEED to do. I remember people asking me with great concern," aren't you and Don going to exchange wedding gifts?" As if the future of our marriage hinged on the answer to this question. My silent response was usually that our gift was that we are getting married today! That IS the gift. I never expected anything in addition to that from my husband, and frankly; I had never even heard of exchanging gifts on your wedding day until the wedding industry started to make it such a fad thing to do. If anything, a heartfelt note written to me that day would be something that I would always cherish. And again ... FREE! Do you see a theme here?

11. Monogrammed Aisle Runner:

Oh, this one is just stupid. It is basically like a red carpet for you to walk down the aisle on. Personally, I do not see the point of having one of these, unless it is supplied to you by the venue or it is not a lot of additional money. Our venue included it with our "package" so we didn't have to worry. But they did have upgrades available, such as different colors or nicer fabrics, etc. If we wanted to, we could have spent up to $400 to walk on a piece of lovely fabric. And hey ... not only can you spit out your food into the bride and groom's names on your napkin, now you can even walk all over the happy couple with your big pointy shoes. What's next? Monogrammed toilet paper? Eeewwwww. I think I just grossed myself out.

I would like to remind you that reading this blog was absolutely FREE. So in return for my generosity, I would be curious to know: for your wedding, what did you spend money on that you now regret? Did anyone try and sell you something that you felt was unnecessary?

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 17:56:01 EDT

"Why did my mom have to die before she could meet the man I'm going to marry? She would love him, she would love the wedding we are having... planning my wedding without her in my life has been the lonliest thing I've ever done. "

Dear Stressed Out Bride...

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:02:18 EDT

I love your name! And now, to answer your question about the wedding party. Essentially, you have a total of 7 bridesmaids on your side, and your fiance has only 4 groomsmen. You were questioning whether or not this would look "weird" because it is uneven. In a word; No.

Let me expand on that answer. (Can you imagine if I just answered your question with only a one-word response? Just "No," and nothing else? I would be the worst Advice giver on the planet, but it would make me laugh to see if they would actually print it that way. But I digress now. Back to you ...)

The days of matching bridesmaids and even numbers in wedding parties are over. Sure, a lot of people have an even amount of bridesmaids to groomsmen; but even more people don't. In the end, it really is not an issue at all, and it does not look weird or strange. Honestly, wedding parties vary so much these days that most of your guests probably won't even notice something like that. For my wedding, we had a Best Man and a Matron of Honor. That is all. No bridesmaids or groomsmen. Other weddings I have been to had 7 or 8 on each side, while still others had 1 Best Man and 5 bridesmaids. There is also something now called a "King's Court" I believe, where the entire bridal party is made up of only men. No women. I love this idea! So my point is this: keep your seven bridesmaids, they are all important to you and of course you do not want to "cut" any of them simply because the numbers are uneven. In the same respect, I am sure your fiance has no desire to ask weird Uncle Bob or some guy he hasn't seen since the Carter administration to be a groomsmen either. Can you imagine that conversation?

Fiance: "Um yeah .. hi weird Uncle Bob. I know I only see you once every few years at funerals and stuff, but um ... wanna be in my wedding? The numbers are uneven and I need a few more bodies. "

Bob: " Who is this?"

Yeah, that might not go so well.

As far as the bridal party entering and exiting for the ceremony, you can do that one of two ways. Some people have each person walk in individually; as in, all the male members entering first one by one, then the female members, ending with the Best Man and Maid of Honor. This is how I have seen it done most often; but again, today there are so many options and no ONE way to do anything. Another option; if you are having them enter and exit in couple form; is to pair off the first couple of men with one bridesmaid, then have the last couple of men walk in with two ladies, one on each arm. You can do the same thing for the reception entrances. Or you could introduce everyone seperately, then introduce your three sisters together; to seperate and recognize them as family. There are several ways to do it, but in the end; your wedding party will be unique and filled with those that are important to you. And that is much more important than filling some sort of predetermined even number quota.

But if you still feel strange, there is always weird Uncle Bob.

If you have a question about your upcoming wedding, click on the Get Advice tab or email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com.

Future Husbands: BEWARE!

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Wow. As brides to be, sometimes we think we have ALL the problems. But after watching this hilarious video from France's sketch comedy show "We're Geniuses," our issues are nothing compared to the men in our lives about to marry us. At least, that is what these men would like you to believe. This is pretty harsh, but very very funny. I am going to have to go ask my husband if this is how HE views marriage, because now I am paranoid. Watch this video entitled, "Scared Straight Off Marriage," and then tell me what YOU think. These men seem to think that we females change after the wedding. Did you change? Did you become more controlling, or less fun, or gain 50 pounds? What about him? Did he suddenly develop a beer gut and a bad habit of waking up at the crack of noon? Tell us your experiences with life AFTER the wedding is over ...

Just a warning; there are plenty of curse words in this clip, but they have all been bleeped.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

The Perfect Proposal #3: A Proposal for the Ages

Tue, 09 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Sometimes, when you ask for a surprise, you get a surprise. Ladies.... be careful what you ask for!.... Although in this case, it was quite a nice surprise!

Heather and Yaron's Wedding Blog

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 17:24:55 EDT

News Flash…Planning a wedding takes a lot of work! I’m sure that most of you know this already. Well, it was news to Yaron and I. We live in Brooklyn but decided to get married in Philly. It’s where we lived while he was in business school and the place our relationship really solidified and where we fell in love.

I’ve decided to share the part of my wedding planning because I think it’s very important. If you decide to plan a destination wedding or a wedding in a city that you do not live in, make sure you marry a man who cares about the flowers and the band and the food and the drinks and the invitations and everything as much as you do.

Thank god for my husband. He was seriously one of the most involved grooms in the history of getting married. We could never have pulled off the wedding that we had if we didn’t work as a team. He helped pick out the flowers and helped me design my invitations. He even helped to write the thank you’s and found our wedding band. The experience proved to me that we were going into the marriage as a team and that we would be able to tackle any obstacles that came our way.

The best thing that he did was made me stick to our budget. I will not be the first bride to admit that you get caught up in all the wedding glamour but somehow become blind to price tags. It begins to feel like monopoly money! Well, this is when Yaron’s degree in business came handy. He made me keep a running excel spreadsheet of every cent we spent. I was horrified at first by this idea. I myself had never really lived by a budget and I certainly didn’t want to start with my wedding.

Once I started to see how much money you can spend on the craziest things I began to really get into it. We had a beautiful wedding but we also saved allot of money. Mostly by doing many of the details on our own. Yes, It meant more effort on our part but in the end we saved a ton!

I have adopted living by a budget to my everyday life now. I don’t always love it and Yaron and I certainly don’t see eye to eye on how we spend our money. But there is something to be said that once you see how you are spending your money on paper…you think twice about weather you really need something or not.

Confession of the Day

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 15:06:25 EDT

"I finally picked a theme/colors for my wedding. But my bridesmaids are going to HATE wearing pink. I kinda feel guilty for that."

Confession of the Day

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 12:00:00 EDT

"Sometimes i'm afraid he's going to realize that i'm a b*tch and drop me....i really need to be nicer to him."

The Wedding Night ... Dean Martin Style

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Here is another wedding-related video. This one comes from the classic DEAN MARTIN SHOW. A few things struck me while watching this very funny scene:

DEAN really likes to drink! Wow! Looking back on this sketch and several others, it is quite funny how obvious it is that the man is pretty sloshed during many of his monologues and scenes with others. He slurs a lot of words, often times saying things incorrectly, putting the syllable in the wrong place, and sometimes even saying the wrong line completely! It is also funny how different comedy was back then; the things that WERE acceptable versus the things that weren't. For example, on TV sitcoms like "I Love Lucy" and "The Dick Van Dyke Show," married couples had seperate beds, and you couldn't talk about getting pregnant. Yet, on the "Dean Martin Show," the host and many of his guests can feel free to smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol in the middle of a scene, and treat women as sex objects freely in their style of dialogue and comedy. None of this was considered rude, it was just the way things were. The interesting thing is that even when Dean is drunk or is clearly looking at the Q card for his next line, the sketches still work and are very funny. I love watching old shows like this and noticing what people found funny back then, and what we find funny today. Back then, there are so many great one liners, and such a sense of "male bonding" especially on shows like this one.

In this sketch, Jimmy Stewart is the guest. He and his wife Shirly are at a hotel on their wedding night. The bellboy enters, (Dean Martin) and the comedy ensues! If you are of the older generation, this will being back great memories. And if you are younger, this is a perfect opportunity to see and hear some of the classics from days gone by. Either way, enjoy!

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 16:31:58 EDT

"I just googled my future married name. Nope, no one on the most wanted list or anything like that. Just wanted to see if I would get confused with any crazies."

Signature Cocktails: Mimosa Punch

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 09:46:14 EDT

Mimosa Punch

Serves 8

Punch bowl or large pitcher

2 cups mandarin orange juice

2 cups pear nectar

½ cup Cointreau

Two bottles chilled dry champagne

2 cups ice cubes

Orange slices and fresh sliced strawberries for garnish

Combine the orange juice, pear nectar, and Cointreau in the punch bowl and mix well. Just before serving, slowly pour in the champagne. Add the ice cubes, garnish with orange and strawberry slices, and serve. If you’re pouring into glasses, mix the first 3 ingredients in a large pitcher. Pour into bottom third of each glass, and fill with Champagne. Garnish with fruit and serve. Note: Tangerine or blood orange juice works just as well.

This is no old and predictable mimosa by any means! Fresh mandarin orange juice gives it just the right twist, with the pear nectar adding a sweet finish. Perfect from shower to reception, and any wedding gathering in-between. Mimosa Punch is easy to make and perfect in batches, and full of flavor that will have your guests coming back for more!

Confession of the Day

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:21:33 EDT

"We didn't have sex for 4 weeks before our wedding so we could have a hot wedding night BUT after our wedding we couldn't wait and had sex in the limo on the way to the reception. It was hot and spontaneous and I liked having that little secret"

Spa Week: Coming to a city near you!

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:04:13 EDT

Hey Brides!

Feeling stressed about your big upcoming wedding? Maybe you've blown your budget and can't afford a day at the spa. Well, I have good news for you. October 15 - 21 is SPA WEEK! This means that all participating spas in New York (and other East Coast cities) are offering 3 of their services for a mere $50 bucks! This includes anything from a classic swedish massage to a mani / pedi, wax, tan, facial, micro peel, etc, etc. And if you're lucky, some spas are extending this offer for the entire month of October!

So hurry, because spaces are limited and book your appointment NOW at www.spaweek.org.

Location, Location, Location!

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Location is everything, right?? Not just in weddings, but in life. So what’s more important than making sure your guests get to your wedding location? Not much! So guide your guests to the great outdoors or a gala at the Plaza and get creative!

Maps by Couture Maps

Ask your invitation designer if they can create a custom map, as whimsical as your event or as formal as your fete (remember that your invitations set the tone of the day and your map should match). If you opt not to work with your invitation designer on this element you can contract custom map companies to do the job or do it yourself. Some websites even offer complimentary assistance so you can create your own custom map. Check out Wedding Mapper for the tools to DIY.

Hand drawn or computer generated, follow a few simple rules: don’t include too many markers or guests may get confused; include accommodation spots and travel sites when you have out of town guests; give precise directions from site one to site two if your event is at multiple locations; include any necessary parking information at all locations; and don’t forget to include the address (for those that opt to use Map Quest or a car navigation system). And don’t forget to include detailed directions and maps on your wedding website as well! Often, elements of the invitation will go missing and guests will turn to your site for last minute guidance to your event.

Left Map: Snappy Maps; Right Map: Wedding Maps

Regardless of who or how the map gets completed, have some fun and mark notable spots like your first kiss together, first date, or favorite place to watch the sun set. Use your map not only to get your guests from A to B but to welcome them into your world too. Function and fun will leave a lasting impression!

Confession of the Day

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 15:29:44 EDT

"My dad's comment with regards to my wedding. "It's not about you!" Then who the hell is it about?"

Nikki and Chad: Our Wedding Portrait

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 09:40:16 EDT

Before we left for Arizona, where our wedding was to be held, we decided to have portraits done in the gardens of a friend’s home in Portland, OR. It was mid-August , drizzling, and the temperature was dropping into the low 60s. In the portrait shown here I am holding a flask, and we kept taking nips of whiskey to stay warm.

Since our outfits and the theme of our wedding was 1930's I wanted to create vintage looking wedding portraits. As a style guide, I used a collection of vintage hand colored postcards both of female portraits and of couples posed in romantic embraces. Tom Harris brought lighting equipment and photographed the portraits. Jeanie was a pro at getting Chad and I into just the right poses and keeping us from giggling as Tom hit the shutter. She also directed me into the eyes looking off and “up to the heavens” poses we had picked to mimic the vintage postcards.

My husband Chad was determined not to see me in my wedding dress until the actual ceremony so we decided to take separate portraits in our wedding outfits. Chad dressed in his 1930s sharkskin tuxedo and fedora. My dress was reconfigured from a 1920s silk lace drop waist dress and over jacket, but I retreated to change into my vintage dressing gown for the pictures together with Chad.

We used several props including a small prayer book from my grandmother, a flower bouquet made from my garden dahlias, a gorgeous Spanish shawl from Jeanie’s aunt, and Jeanie’s amazing peacock feather fan. The flask was a pre-wedding gift from my girlfriend Brigid, made from a 1930s design so it fit perfectly into our vintage theme.

We had a blast taking the shots and did get a few good ones. I ending up choosing a few of the digital shots to desaturate (Photoshop into black and white) and have printed. My plan is to hand color them and frame them in vintage frames as gifts to our parents, and who knows, maybe we will end up with one ourselves.

Some Wedding Books That Don't Suck

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

In the world of weddings, the word EXPERT is severely overused. It seems that everyone and their mother thinks they are an expert. If someone simply gets married these days, they start calling themselves a "wedding expert." Hey, I remember this one time I went to the store and purchased some flowers. Now I call myself a "floral expert." When I wanted to write my own vows, I had people telling me I should hire a "wedding vow specialist" to help me word them correctly. Huh? They are MY words, I think I can figure out how to phrase them so they make some sort of sense without having to pay some word geek a fee of $50 per sentence or some ridiculous thing. So in the end, I did not hire the specialist. And guess what? Our vows turned out just fine.

The wedding industry wants you to believe that you are not capable of doing anything yourself; that you desperately need help. You need a wedding planner, a makeup expert, a ceremony expert, a dance instructor, a bridal assistant; the list goes on and on. At this rate, after all the planning, you might need a therapist too. The bottom line is that there are many of these such experts; some of quality and others, not so much. You need to decide which of these things; if any, are important to you. You can plan your wedding on your own. I did. Right down to the last favor. The question is, do you WANT to? Some people prefer to have some experts in their planning process; or at least some good old fashioned help. So if you are one of those Brides or Grooms, then I did a little bit of homework for you and found some books that may help you with your wedding planning process. Since most wedding planning type books seem to suck, I could only find a few that were not mind - numbingly annoying or very old-fashioned. So if you'd like a bit of entertainment, help, or fun; check these out:

"It's My Wedding" by Jean Ramsden and Corinne Weldon

This book is kind of cool. Instead of simply giving you some ideas of what to do during wedding planning, this included several "real" stories from actual brides who have already gone through it. In each story, there is a crisis of some kind that the bride describes; and then tells the story of what happened. After each tale, a solution from various "experts" is offered as to how they would have dealt with that issue. It is fun to read, and after reading some of these stories, it will make you feel better about your own somewhat tame situations.

"The Bridesmaid Handbook" by Sharon Naylor

This book also doesn't suck. It offers some modern day advice about being a bridesmaid in an easy to follow; fun to read way. Included are things like the bachelorette party, Bridal Shower, how much money you should expect to spend, picking dresses, your time, ceremony and general etiquette. Many so-called "experts" weigh in on these issues, but overall, they aren't annoying enough to make me hate this book. If you are going to be a bridesmaid, this one might be helpful and a good read.

"The Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Weddings" by Piven, Borgenicht, Jordan

I liked this book because I was never quite sure if the stories I was reading were real, or if I was being "punked." Some of the tales here are so bizarre or just plain nutty, you are not quite sure if you are being taken for a ride ... or did it really happen? DJ's not showing up, wedding dresses getting lost the day of the event, reception hall catching fire. What to do? This book will tell you ... sort of. Their solutions are just as baffling as their scenarios. And yet, oddly enough, I think it is a helpful book. And very funny. The authors come up with some pretty good and creative stuff here; such as creating bouquets from wrappers, and how to deal with a drunken bridesmaid. (you'll have to read for yourself. ) The best thing about this book is that it does not take itself too seriously. It sort of mocks the whole idea of "experts," which I really really liked. If you are stressed out right now planning your wedding, this should make you laugh and help you put things into perspective.

"Thirty To Wife" by Craig Michaels

Very funny book. Great gift for a Groom-to-be, from the male perspective. This one tells the story of Craig Michaels, a man who just proposed to his now fiance. In this book, he writes about the 30 days before the wedding from his personal experience ... the engagement, the wedding planning, the changes in the relationship, and everything else that happens during this happy and strange time. Michaels is very real and down to earth, funny, and obviously very in love. This is really a perfect read for any man who feels like he is not a big part of the wedding planning process, or who feels left out. (waah.)

"The Best Wedding Reception Ever" by Peter Merry

Who is Peter Merry, you ask? Well he is a wedding expert, of course! Not exactly, but close. For over 20 years, he was a "Wedding Entertainment Director," which gives him a lot of knowledge in a lot of areas of planning the perfect wedding reception. This book is incredibly helpful, and I actually read it while planning my own wedding. Someone gave it to me as a gift, and I have to say, it was a favorite of mine during the process. I loved how Perry referred to the typical cookie - cutter wedding as a "McWedding." He gives great tips on how to avoid this type of wedding, how to make it your own, and do it on a tight budget. He speaks about the most important part of the reception - the entertainment, the company, the food, the atmosphere. The ideas are concrete and very creative, and the book definately doesn't suck.

One more thing: if you are going to read any of the above books or others while planning your wedding, by all means do not pay for them. There is a little thing called a library, and it is a wonderful place. Save some money, and use it. And happy wedding planning.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

The Perfect Proposal #2: Let's Play Ball!

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Sometimes you go to baseball games to just watch the game, drink beer and eat hot dogs. Well, this guy had something else in mind.... and, lucky for him, he brought home much more than just a ticket stub and a baseball hat.... he had a fiance!

Confession of the Day

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 12:35:53 EDT

"For those brides that are complaining about their moms help in planning their weddings? be glad you have a mom to help you, mine passed away a few years ago and I wish everyday that she was here to help me. :*("

The Honeymoon Blog (Italy or Bust!)

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Often times in life, we start out wanting one thing; and end up with something entirely different. This was the case with our honeymoon, and now that I look back on it; it was probably for most people a very unconventional, strange way to spend your first week as a newly married couple. And did I mention it was perfect? Ever since I can remember, I always dreamed of going to Italy for my honeymoon. Everyone always says that women are born thinking about their wedding day. I was a bit different. I was born thinking about my honeymoon. Where we would go, the sites we would see, the two week minimum getaway from everyone and everything, and of course; the endless romance. Well, fast forward to my life last year when we were in the midst of planning and paying for a wedding. It seemed to me we had a choice to make; did we want a beautiful, intimate yet elegant wedding ... or a fantastic, long-extended European honeymoon? We could not have both, so in the end, turns out I went for the nice wedding. I do not regret a thing, as my wedding was one of the best days of my life and I wouldn't change a thing. You do what you can afford, and we couldn't quite afford Italy. Instead, we went to Cape Cod.

My parents have a time-share in CapeCod, Massachusetts. They get one week per year, which just happened to be the week after we got married. So they gave it to us. It was very generous of them, and an absolutely beautiful 2 bedroom suite right on the bay and the ocean. So a week after our October wedding, off we drove to Cape Cod Massachusetts, in November.

Now if you have never been to CapeCod before, you should know that the place is hopping with tourists; an endless sea of people all summer long. In November, it is considered the beginning of the "off-season." The good news about being on the Cape in November is that you have the entire place to yourself. The bad news is that you have the entire place to yourself. There is NOBODY around anywhere. At night, it is silent; for even the crickets have left town. The people that remain are the locals, those that live there year round. And let me tell you, there aren't many. So what do you DO with all of your time when everything seems to be closed, and quite frankly; you have already had all the sex that either of you desire? Well, for one thing, you eat. And then you eat some more. And then some more. Let me say this; the restaurants in the Falmouth area are fantastic! Excellent homemade meals, comfort foods; great breakfasts, and of course; seafood. A few of our favorites include Seafood Sam's, Hearth and Kettle, The Fishmonger, Oysters Too, and Crabapples.

But sometimes, even the restaurants were closed. So then you get really desperate and you do the next best thing: Burger King! Yes, we went to Burger King on our honeymoon. Now you may ask; what could possibly be lamer than going to a fast food place on your honeymoon? Well, I have got the answer, and it is one word: Bowling! That is correct. We went bowling on our honeymoon. Why? Because nothing else was open that night, that's why! C'mon now. How much sex can two people have? After awhile, a person wants a Whopper and some good old fashioned bowling! Now, what could possibly be more lame than going bowling on your honeymoon? Once again, I have the answer for you. Going bowling with your parents! That is correct. Our parents went bowling with us. Why? Well because they are lovely people, and we enjoy spending time with them. And since this beautiful suite was THEIRS after all, we decided it might be fun for them to come up and spend an overnight with us; show us around, go to Burger King, bowl. You know, the usual things one does on a romantic getaway....

So after mom and dad left and we were once again alone, we took a day trip to Martha's Vineyard, where upon arrival everything was once again CLOSED. By the second or third day of our seven day vacation, we started to notice a trend. A lot of places were "Closed for the Season." So rather than get angry, we started to have fun with it; taking pictures of every business, restaurant, and establishment that had a Closed sign on it. We turned it into a little story; sort of the theme for our honeymoon: "Sorry, We're Closed." Here are some of the highlights from those adventures ....

So what is the message here; the lesson? Well, as I said, I always pictured in my head going to Italy and having this grandiose romantic honeymoon. Instead, we ended up on Cape Cod in November; bowling with my parents. (well, only one night. Let's not get crazy here.) And you know what? I wouldn't change a thing. After you get married and spend a whole chunk of your life planning a wedding, you just want to get away. You want to be together and relax. I try to look at it this way; all those people left Cape Cod so my husband and I could have our time together, so we could enjoy the first week of our new marriage in style. It was perfect autumn weather, just the way I like it. The food was great, and the company even better. I had my husband all to myself, and we could do whatever we wanted. Sure, there was some romance. But mostly what I remember about our honeymoon is the total feeling of peace and tranquility. So when you plan your honeymoon, be open to new ideas; new locations. Not everybody has to go to Aruba or Jamaica. To us, Cape Cod was just our style. And you never know; you may find yourself doing something you never expected ... like ice-skating. (Hey! It was the only thing that was OPEN!) What do you expect? It was November!

And if you have any crazy, fun or just plain awesome honeymoon stories, let us know and we'll feature them on our blog. Email us at tips@brideorama.com.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 15:49:38 EDT

"We're definitely not together for the great sex. I've never had an orgasm and he lasts 1 minute... I love him anyway and think there are more important things in a relationship than great sex.

...Still, since he was my first, I sometimes wonder what great sex is really like. I'll never know though. He's it. I'd never cheat on him."

Signature Cocktails: Raspberry Rickety

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 11:17:14 EDT

Raspberry Rickey

Serves 4
8 oz. vodka
3 oz. lime juice
2 oz. Chambord
12 fresh raspberries, plus 4 for garnish
fresh limes for garnish club soda to top

Muddle the raspberries in the bottom of a pitcher or large glass. Fill with ice and add the remaining ingredients. Stir well and pour into 4 glasses. Top with club soda. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh raspberries. If fresh raspberries are not available, look for fresh frozen berries with out the syrup, as the sugar will take over the cocktails flavors.

This fresh and fruity cooler is a proven crowd pleaser because of the nature of the ingredients-there is just something about raspberries that everyone enjoys! The vibrant coloring and flecks of pulp make it instantly appealing to your thirsty guests arriving into the reception, so have a trayful or two at the ready, they’ll try at least one!

Deborah and Brian's Keepsake Booklet

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:53:10 EDT

One of our viewers, Deborah submitted this really great and sentimental keepsake book of her and Brian's journey to their engagement. It's a great idea to keep a book like this for whenever you want to relive the excitement of you and your loved one.

Here's what she wrote:

We got married in July and had the coolest wedding keepsake for our guests. Brian and I had our love story written in a beautiful booklet with our engagement photos and one of our snapshots from when we were dating. We printed enough for each of our guests. We've included a picture of pages 12 and 13. The whole book is posted here if you would like to see it.

And if you have any tips, suggestions or want to send us pictures from your wedding, email us at tips@brideorama.com or submit them here.

Bride - Freak Out!

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:00:00 EDT

Weddings take a lot of planning. And I mean A LOT. One important tip is to make sure you get your makeup and hair done a few days before so you can see what it looks like on the day of your wedding. And if you don't get it done... you may just end up like this.....

Dear Amy...

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:09:46 EDT

"My family is getting too involved in the planning of the wedding. The problem is that they are putting up a lot of the cash, so I don't know how to say No to their ideas without making anyone angry. What do I do? Help!"

Ah money. The root of all Evil. When it comes to weddings, there is nothing that complicates things more than money. (unless you have members of your wedding party who happen to be Ninjas, but that was last week's question. I digress.) That little green piece of paper can cause so much stress, and so many issues, can't it? That is why I think you should just simply take your family's money and run far far away to a private island to marry the man of your dreams. Okay, that is a bit harsh and probably unfair ... so let us take a different approach.

You need to start making some decisions about which parts of your wedding are most important to you. Some battles are just not worth fighting for, while others might be well worth the battle. For example, if your mom is insisting that you have sugar cookies with your names on them as a favor; is this really something to waste your time getting angry about and arguing about, especially if she is putting out the money for it? I don't think so. However, something more substantial like you wanting to write your own vows or have some control over special songs that are played during the ceremony; these things are more personal decisions that should be a reflection of you. In the end, it is your wedding and you want it to represent who you and your fiance are as people; not who your parents are and what THEY want. Unfortunately, sometimes when a family offers to pay for a child's wedding, they also tend to want control over all the little details. This can cause problems, as you have seen. My advice is to pick your battles, and learn to let some things go. Decide what is really important to you, and talk to your family about those things. If they really won't budge, you might have to offer to pay for that particular part of the wedding yourself so that you can have it your way. So if mom insists on red roses but you want yellow, then pay for the flowers yourself and explain to your mom that this is what you want. The most important thing is that you remember to sit down with your family and talk all of this out together. Try not to let the money become the evil that comes between you. Do not let that happen. Having someone offer to pay for most of your wedding can be a curse or a blessing. It is really up to you. Let it be a blessing by remaining open, understanding, and grateful for the help.

Lastly, try not to look at things as "saying no." There are a lot of places where you can work together to compromise so that you will both be happy with the result. If mom and dad want to invite kids and you say No way ... compromise and only invite children of immediate family members, but not children of friends. Another good idea is to give your family a specific job. They obviously want to help, so choose an area or two of the wedding in which you don't mind giving up the reigns .. and hand them over to mom and dad. Tell them, "You know, choosing linens is not really my strongest area. I would love it if you would take over that part of the planning for me. " This way you remain in control, while also including your family. If you play your cards right, you could end up bonding with your family while planning your wedding. Thats what happened with me and my mom while planning mine together. We had a lot of fun putting our heads together and coming up with ideas. Try to remember that your family is doing something nice for you by putting up a lot of the finances for the wedding. It really is a beautiful thing when you think about it. Happy planning Amy!

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Christian, Manolo, Jimmy Who?

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 16:41:39 EDT

From Vera Wang to Oscar De La Renta, bridal designers have been wooing us for decades with their couture masterpieces. With such emphasis on the gown, is the shoe that important? What if the shoe doesn’t fit? You decide…

Bling is in, from the diva Lopez heel by Benjamin Adams (bottom left) to the affordable Nina sling back (top left), but does it have to be expensive? Is there really a difference? To those that scream a resounding “yes;” what is it? For starters - the price. How much do you think these shoes cost? Take a guess and check your footwear facts.

From top left - Nina $99.99; bottom left - Benjamin Adams $ 807.93; center - Christian Lacroix $549.00; top right - Christian Louboutin $1,165.00; top right corner - Gina $1278.00; bottom right - Pella Moda $163.95.

The affordable Pella Moda mule has a leather sole and rhinestone embellishment (albeit not Swarovski). The Christian Louboutin is also made of leather but with a sequin mirrored finish. The Christian Lacroix pair is a dyeable white silk satin sandal with Swarovski crystals studded on the toe strap. So do these slight differences really make a difference? And what about comfort on this long day? Does price = comfort? Most of us would say no. I have my favorite too-many-seasons-ago-to-say Franco Sarto mules that are a staple in my wardrobe when I'm on my feet all day at work. And I know you have some worn-in old leather foot soldiers of your own. Yet some of us are still drawn to that red-soled stilleto, that gold medalion on the toe, and even the red striped heel now and again. So while the issue of comfort versus cost is still out for debate, be prepared to invest in something no bride should go without…Foot Petals! No matter how much your pumps cost, your feet are worth the few extra dollars for some comfortable padding to help you dance ‘til dawn! Looking for a cute shower gift? How about Foot Petals’ Runaway Bride gift set...

And for those who choose to walk the path less travelled, try flip flops with a little bling...

The Perfect Proposal #1: Military Style!

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

After scouring the web, we found a bunch of propsals that were... well... perfect! Here's the first one, and if you have a perfect proposal, send it in! We'd love to hear your stories!!!

Confession of the Day

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:49:50 EDT

"I secretly wished FH's crazy, emotional train wreck ex girlfriend was there on our wedding day so I could see her cry"

Jeni and Norm Wedding Blog

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 11:54:15 EDT

Do it Yourself Rings…

My husband and I made both our engagement rings and our wedding rings. For us this made sense given that we are both crafty and pretty much knew exactly what we wanted. It also saved us quite a lot of money!

Norman is a musician, but over the last 7 or 8 years has gotten into designing and fabricating really cool multi-layered plexi-glass clocks that he calls clockthings. They are inspired by different things, but mostly music, movies and Bollywood. He's made many over the years and has sold quite a few as well. Since he had a pretty big box of leftover scraps of plexi, he started making jewelry. He made some solid colored flat topped rings, a few multi-colored stacked round rings, and for Valentine's Day he made me a red ring with a clear heart that stood out from the front on wire (with our initials on it). I loved my Valentine ring, but couldn't wear it much as it was kind of big and also a bit fragile. A couple days after we decided to get married, I came home from work to discover that he had made us the perfect matching plexi engagement rings! The rings are identical except his is mansized and mine is tiny. They are clear bands with roman numerals of our wedding date carved into the side and highlighted with red. I wore my ring so proudly and was horrified when about 2 weeks before the wedding I got a solvent on my hand and my ring cracked and then broke! Not a problem though, he simply made me a new slightly thicker ring. That one has held up really well!

The 2 of us designed our actual wedding rings, and since I had been making gold and silver jewelry for about 2 years as a sideline to my job as a toy sculptor/painter, it seemed natural and fitting that I should make them. We decided that we wanted rings that incorporated 2 different metals, twined and fused together. I decided that we should use silver and 18k yellow gold, because those 2 metals fuse easily and because I knew this would mean I would never have to worry about my other jewelry matching my ring or not. I set about making the rings. I got the rod and started fusing. I was fusing away and all was well until I overheated the end of the twist and a small gap appeared! Because it was important to us that both rings be cut from the same length of fused twist, I ended up making a "happy accident" design decision. My ring has a small shallow diamond set into the place where the gap formed-seemed like it was meant to be- just like the 2 of us together.

You can check out Norman's clocks at www.clockthing.com and Jeni's jewelry at www.myspace.com/jennifertullwestberg

What You Wish You Could Say

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:54:30 EDT

Ladies. Men. Anyone and everyone who has ever been invited to a wedding in which you don't "really" want to go to ... Don't you sometimes wish that you could throw away every etiquette book, every set of rules, and just tell the Bride and Groom how you really feel? I know. I wish the same thing. But sometimes it's just not possible. That's why the good folks over at the hilarious website www.someecards.com have done it for us. So while you're reading a few of these funny wedding cards, think about what YOU would like to say in your card to the happy couple ... if you only could. And, for even more fun, come up with your own creative wedding card messages and send them to me in the comments or at my email. I would love to hear your deepest, most shameful thoughts. It makes me feel a bit less evil.

Confession of the Day

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:49:25 EDT

"How is it that every stupid 20 year old I know who hasn't even finished college is getting married, and I am educated and attractive and I cant even get a date."

Signature Cocktails: Singapore Sling

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 11:11:08 EDT

Singapore Sling

Serves 8

8oz. Gin

4oz. Cherry Brandy

4oz. Cointreau

4oz. lime juice

16oz. Pineapple Juice

Club soda to top

Mix the first five ingredients in a large shaker with ice. Strain into ice filled glasses. Top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with slice of pineapple and cherries. Serve immediately.

Singapore Sling Or the SingSling as its called, is a thirst quenching taste of tropical paradise, and a perfect way to kick off your wedding reception. This fruit-filled concoction has something for everyone, with its subtle hints of orange and lime balancing the cherry and pineapple. And the look alone sets off happy vibes, one that is sure to get your guests up and dancing.

Confession of the Day

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:10:56 EDT

"My sister is getting married and brought over some wedding mags to flip through. She left them here and I left them on the table. My bf came home, saw them, instantly flipped out and left.

And came back with a ring....um

I had no intention of EVERY marrying HIM. I said no. Broke his heart."

Dear Kevin...

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:23:55 EDT

"Why did the insensitive, drunk & embarrassing members of my family get upset when they weren't invited to my wedding? Dont they see how loud and rude they are? Oh, and what if one of them is a ninja - the very same ninja who promised me years ago to train me in the ancient art of ninjate, but didn't. Should i invite him?"

Pause for effect. More pausing, with confused look on my face......

Okay Kevin. Although I have the distinct feeling that this question is nothing more than a figment of your imagination; with the intent of making me spend my quality time replying to a phony and preposterous situation; and that I am, in fact, being "PUNKED" I'll bite. I will take the bait and reply to this. But Kevin; you have not won this battle. Just know that I know that you know that this is not real. But just in case, here goes:

About the ninja, we will get to him later. But first, let us deal with your insensitive, drunk and embarassing family, shall we? This is the type of question that leads us on a path to several other questions; and, well ... the cycle is endless. For example: How many members of your family are we talking about here? An aunt and uncle? A cousin? Or are we talking about the entire Kevin clan? And are they "drunk" once in awhile, at family functions; or every waking moment? Oh, and to answer your question about whether or not they realize how loud and rude they are; my guess would be a big fat NO on that. Since they are so insensitive, drunk, and embarrassing; I doubt they realize much of anything.

That being said, what exactly happened here? You obviously did not invite them to your wedding, but what were the circumstances? I mean, if some of these family members are people such as your sister, brother or parents; I would imagine they would just assume they are invited to the wedding. Did they confront you on this issue? And when that happened, were they drunk when doing so? I would say in this case, the answer to your question lies in the question itself. Your insensitive, drunk and embarrassing family members were upset to not be invited to the wedding because they are insensitive, drunk and embarrassing. The end. Bottom line is this: family or not, you don't actually HAVE to invite anyone to your wedding. It is your choice as a couple (I am assuming you are marrying another person in this scenario?) to invite or not invite whomever you choose. Unless, of course; these family members are contributing to the finances of the event. However, something tells me that is not the case.

Now, for the Ninja. (let it be said that I have never in my almost 36 years on earth uttered nor typed those words before now.) Again, more questions. Who is this Ninja? Another drunk relative; or simply a friend who happens to be a Ninja? If he is a family member, perhaps he will just blend in with all the other wackos at this wedding. If he is a friend, maybe he could do the toast to the Bride and Groom at the reception. Or, even better; he could offer up his services of "training in the art of ninjate" to you and all your guests during the reception. This way, you will finally get that lesson that he promised. So yes, invite him. Why the hell not? Really, who could it harm to have him there? As far as I see it, the only person who is harmed by this entire situation is ME. I had to sit here and try to keep a straight face while trying my best to solve your problems. I certainly hope that I have helped you. Please send us pictures of this wedding, for I feel it will be a memorable one. Thank you for making me giggle.

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Conde Nast's Dream House

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Getting ready to play house with your new hubby? Before you do, check out Conde Nast’s New York City Dream House. This tour-able showcased home is setup to house all info the newly-engaged, pre-engaged, and newlywed couples need to inspire their lives together. From bridal to beauty, fashion to fitness, to home accessories and registry items, this modern spin on an old home brings together the editors, experts, and entertainers from Brides, Modern Bride, and Elegant Bride Magazines. You and your hubby or hubby-to-be can tour this temporary bridal and new nester Mecca from October 18^th through November 15, 2007. Tickets are available for purchase and a portion of the proceeds benefit the fantastic I Do Foundation.

Some of the soon-to-be seen highlights include rooms designed by celebrity decorators using wares from Bloomingdales, Pampered Chef and more. Sylvia Weinstock, the godmother of wedding cakes will take you into her world of sweets and celebrity designer and new host of Get Married, David Tutera will talk about what’s hot and what’s not. Manicures, makeovers, workouts, classes, and cocktail parties are all available at this new hot spot for all those brides-to-be lucky enough to be in the area. You can even meet and greet (and drink tea or cosmos) with some of your favorite Conde Naste Bridal Editors and hear their tips and must haves for your big day.

From planning your wedding to planning your life together, this block party sounds like the place to be in NYC! For ticket information and schedule of events, check out the offical website.

Confession of the Day

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:25:35 EDT

"I just spent the last half hour putting pictures of myself in my wedding dress into photoshop and photoshopping myself skinnier. I wanted to see how cute I would look in my dress if i was thinner. What's wrong with me?!"

Excuse me, this costs HOW much?

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Have you ever noticed that the word WEDDING is a magic word? As in, whenever you say it to someone, you get an instant reaction. Sometimes negative, other times positive. When speaking with any kind of vendor or salesperson; anyone offering a service, using the word WEDDING can suddenly quadruple the price of something instantly! I remember trying to plan our rehearsal dinner at a nice restaurant, and speaking with the banquet managers and others in charge of such events. A typical conversation involved me asking what their price ranges were on their dinner menus, and them telling me something like $8-$12 per entree. Okay, fine. Then I happened to mention the word's "rehearsal dinner," and the tone changed immediately. "Oh, you're getting married?" Why yes I am. Now those same dinner prices just jumped from $8-$12 per entree to a special "wedding menu" that, strangely, only included meals starting at the low price of $20 per person. Well, ain't that just a trip? So over time, I learned a valuable lesson. Do not mention the word WEDDING and you will save a TON of money. Honest. I experimented with this by calling companies twice; the first time just asking for their typical fees for services, and the second time starting out by saying "I'm getting married, and I'm looking for a car service." Well, wouldn't you know it? Those second price lists were a lot higher. So I learned, and now I pass it on to you. Whenever possible, leave out the magic word. To further illustrate this point, and to make you laugh, here is a hilarious video clip that comes from the British sketch comedy show "Man Strokes Woman" on the BBC network. I found this on www.Youtube.com and it is a guaranteed laugh out loud.

So what about you, dear readers? Have you been screwed over by "the industry" when mentioning the magic word? What did you do about it?

Email Kelley at kelley@brideorama.com

Confession of the Day

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"Part of me hopes that something goes horribly wrong with my dress so that I can go shopping for a new one. I'm not sure I like my dress anymore."

Remember the Ritz - An amazing wedding proposal

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:20:04 EDT

I found this amazing wedding proposal on The Wedding Planner's Blog. It's truly inspiring and all I have to say is.... WOW!.... read on, then watch the slideshow.

Below are links to a slideshow and photographs of a proposal an Atlanta man to his girlfriend. Here is what the photographer said.

At the end of April I had the privilege to shoot the engagement of Robert Gray, Jr. and Keisha Williams.

Robert and Keisha met four years ago at a surprise birthday party for a mutual friend. Two months later Keisha received anonymous flowers with a subtle message attached. It was an additional month before Robert revealed himself as her secret admirer. Robert is a native of Atlanta and Keisha hails from LaGrange,
GA.

This past February Robert contacted me to talk about his engagement plans. We met at a Starbucks in Southwest
Atlanta. The meeting lasted nearly an hour because Robert was so excited to tell me all about what he had been planning for a year. The surprise engagement was to take place at the Ritz Carlton in Buckhead, Georgia. He even had a name for the the proposal ‘Remember the Ritz’ and an email address!!

Robert had arranged for 10 rooms (on different floors) at the hotel to be reserved. The rooms were to be filled with family and friends reading scriptures, roses that had been laced with gold, and unlimited candles!

On the day of the engagement, I started shooting at 4 PM and ended at 12 AM (8 hours!). There is so much more to explain but I wouldn’t do much justice. My suggestion - pop a bag of popcorn, pull out a box of tissues, and find a comfortable seat. This will be the most elaborate proposal you have ever seen.

Watch the slideshow here!

Confession of the Day

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:00:21 EDT

"Why is it taking him so long to propose?! I'm really getting tired of waiting and wondering if there's something wrong with our relationship he's not telling me."

Rehearsal Dinner Do's and Don'ts

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

The rehearsal dinner. In the world of weddings, it has become a regular and almost expected event. If you are planning a wedding, you have probably dealt with issues such as where to hold the dinner, who should be invited, and who will pay for all of this madness anyway?

Well, although none of these things are set in stone, it can help to have some basic guidelines to follow while planning your rehearsal dinner. First things first: what is the purpose of the rehearsal dinner? Really, there are a couple reasons for this gathering to take place. One is to formally introduce all participating family members to one another, sometimes for the first time ever. The biggest reason for the rehearsal dinner, however; is to properly say thank you to everyone involved in the planning of your wedding. Mainly, your wedding party. And really, what better way is there to thank anyone, than to feed them? No way I can think of.

So, with that in mind, here are some general guidelines to help you out in planning your Rehearsal Dinner for your wedding:

DO invite everyone in your wedding party, and all immediate family members to the dinner. This includes maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, and any other bridal party members. Your parents and siblings, and sometimes your grandparents; depending on situation and budget constraints, should also be there to celebrate with you. Basically, the rehearsal dinner normally takes place immediately after the ceremony rehearsal; so anyone who is involved in the rehearsal should also be involved in the grub that is to follow.

DON'T get roped into inviting your third cousin twice removed Bertha, your ceremony musicians and their nine children, your fiance's fifteen frat buddies who have just flown in from out of town and are particularly famished, or your mother's lonely officemate Alice; whom you have never even met before.

DO try and save money by being creative with your rehearsal dinner. There are so many things that work, and in general, people are very happy as long as they are being fed. So whether its a pancake brunch after a morning rehearsal, an afternoon cookout at your place on a lovely summer day, or a chinese buffet at a fun restaurant; just make your guests feel welcome, loved, and appreciated for all the time they spent being a part of your wedding.

DON'T sacrifice your guests in order to save a dime. While it's perfectly fine to hold your "dinner" at your house rather than a restaurant, or to do something a little outside the norm; it is not acceptable or very nice to ask your guests to pay their own way for their meals or food. Your guests should always feel like guests; welcome in your environment.

DO make short speeches as the Bride and Groom, thanking everyone involved for being a part of your wedding. Generally, the rehearsal dinner is the perfect place to give out any gifts you have bought for your wedding party. Some couples also give a gift to both sets of parents, or anyone else who was a large part of your overall wedding planning process that you want to recognize or thank.

DON'T use this opportunity to make a long, drunken speech about how you wish that your mother in law would have minded her own business more; or how you can't stand your fiance's best man. It's also never a good idea to force anyone to speak publically who might not want to. Barking out orders for what should happen at the rehearsal dinner probably isn't the best idea. Just let things happen naturally, and allow it to be a fun and light atmosphere. People should be feeling relaxed the night before the wedding.

DO choose a different menu than what you will have available on your wedding day. If your choices on the wedding day for entrees include fish, chicken and beef; then perhaps a pizza party; Mexican feast, or an Italian pasta buffet might work better for a totally different atmosphere and food choice at the rehearsal dinner. This is the best way to avoid your guests having to order the exact same thing two days in a row.

DON'T base your menu solely on what your diet restrictions are. If you are a strict vegetarian who lives only on wheat and grain products, good for you. However, please keep in mind that the 20 or so people whom you have invited to EAT may not enjoy a tofu casserole or soy-silk shake as much as you do.

Most of all .. have fun at your rehearsal dinner. Do something different. Some friends of mine invited everyone up to their place in the Hamptons for a pool party, complete with an all day cookout; so much fun! Our rehearsal dinner was held at a really cool sports-themed restaurant called Champions, inside of the Marriott Hotel where all our guests were staying. We sat inside of a mock -ice hockey rink and watched baseball games on the surrounding giant screen tv's.

The wedding day will be about you and your new husband. Make sure that the rehearsal dinner is all about the people who helped to get you there; your Bridal Party and families.

If you have any suggestions for more Do's and Don'ts lists OR any other blog topic, email Kelley at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Signature Cocktails: Fruit Smoothie

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 09:23:09 EDT

Fruit Smoothie

Serves 12

Large pitcher or punch bowl

2 cups raspberry puree or ¾ cup raspberry syrup

6 cups pineapple juice

2 cups orange juice

3 tablespoons lemon juice

3 cups light rum

4 cups ice cubes

Combine raspberry puree and other liquid ingredients in pitcher or bowl and mix well. Add ice cubes and serve immediately. To make the raspberry puree, simply puree 4 cups of fresh or frozen raspberries until smooth. Strain the puree into a bowl through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Refrigerate until chilled. The puree will keep, covered and refrigerated, for up to 2 days.

This sweet concoction is a proven crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a reception morning or night, its vibrant coloring and small flecks of fruit pulp running through make it equally as pleasing to the eye. The velvety texture and intense fruitiness will certainly give your guests the courage to get up and groove! For a non-alcoholic Smoothie, substitute an additional 3 cups pineapple juice for the rum.

Where Did That Come From? A Top 11 List of Wedding Customs

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:35:35 EDT

Have you ever wondered the origin of some of the silly or just plain strange modern day wedding traditions and customs? Or even the original meaning of a wedding - related phrase or word? I myself have been curious about some of these traditions, so I did a little research and found out for all of us. Wasn't that nice of me? Don't say I never do anything for you people! There are many wedding customs out there; some are weird, a tad offensive, or just plain funny in their ridiculousness. A lot of these traditions seemed to have come from the days of Ancient Europe and Egypt. There are literally hundreds, but this list goes to eleven.

1. Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold

Some very early marriages were literally "carried" out by the Groom and his "bridesknights," who would kidnap a woman from another tribe for the Groom to marry. (Can you see a modern-day NYC chick putting up with this? I think not!) The Groom and his groomsmen, or bridesknights; would then fight off the bride's family with swords in their right hand, while the Groom held or "carried" the Bride in his left. This is also why the Bride stands to the left of the Groom during the wedding ceremony. It is said that in ancient times, the Groom would need his right hand side free to use his sword in protecting his new Bride from any jealous suitors. (I guess the modern day version of this would be a guy holding a beer in his right hand, and his fist in the other? You know, in case any fights break out at the local dive karaoke bar.)

2. The Honeymoon

Historians claim the term "honeymoon" came from ancient times; when the Groom would keep his Bride stashed away for one month after the wedding. The word honeymoon came from the term to describe the one month cycle of the moon during this time. The newlyweds would drink "mead," a honey - sweetened alcoholic brew that was meant to affect the acidity and sobriety of the womb; therefore increasing fertility. Now I have heard of getting your woman a little tipsy to get her into bed, but this is ridiculous!

3. Wedding

So where does the word wedding come from? Well, allegedly, it is derived from the word "wedd," which meant that a man would marry a woman and then pay the bride's father. Let me repeat that. The Groom would PAY the bride's father so that he could marry her! So basically, us females were being bought and sold between the two men that supposedly loved us most;our dad and our future husbands. I wonder how much a good women went for in those days. Something tells me they didn't take American Express for these transactions.

4. The Bouquet and Toss

Now this one just made me laugh, plain and simple. Did you know that originally, bouquets were made not of flowers, but instead of herbs with a strong odor such as garlic and thyme. They would wrap the herbs in ribbons or rope and create a bridal bouquet. Why? Well, to frighten Evil Spirits, of course. Everything "back in the day" seems to be about evil spirits. Apparently there were a lot of spirits running around trying to ruin people's weddings. Nothing like a little garlic to scare them away though, huh? "Run for your lives! It's GARLIC!!!" The secondary purpose of the strong herbed bouquet was to cover the stench of any guests who had not bathed recently. So weird Uncle Eddie with his two teeth and B.O. will now smell like B.O. drowned in garlic. Sounds like the perfect solution to me. And hey, what's better on your wedding night than a garlic smelling Bride? Mmmmm, sexy. It's no wonder their Grooms hid them away for a month. As for the bouquet toss, this also had to do with luck and evil spirits. It was widely believed that newlyweds brought upon good luck, so tossing the bouquet represented the Bride passing on her luck to whoever caught it. Also, guests were known back then for literally tearing at the Bride's wedding dress, so they could take home a piece of it for "luck." Sort of like trying to get a lock of hair from Paul McCartney, but weirder. So the tossing of the bouquet acted as a distraction, so that the guests would hopefully leave the Bride's dress alone. (Umm... yeah. That makes sense, right? Not really.)

5. Bridal Shower

The story goes like this: A long, long time ago; in a land far away; a poor Dutchman fell for a beautiful girl whose father refused her a dowry. So her friends got together and "showered" her with enough gifts to help her and her poor, poor Dutchman start a household. This sounds like the perfect couple for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to me. Other ancient customs included hiding the wrapped gifts under a parisole, which would then fall upon the Bride .. hence the term "shower." I wonder if anyone back then ever received a gift card to Target?

6. The Lifting of the Veil

More evil spirits. One of the main purposes of the Bride's veil was to protect her from them wacky evil spirits. Even more humorous than that is this: during ancient times, most weddings were pre-arranged by the families of the Bride and Groom. The Groom was never allowed to see the Bride's face, therefore her face was covered by the veil. In fact, the Groom did not know what the Bride looked like until seconds before the vows began. This is why the father of the Bride would lift the veil; to "present" the Groom with his new Bride. The theory was that if a Groom saw his future Bride's face before this point, he may not like her looks; and therefore, may not agree to marry her. Talk about shocking a guy, huh? Can you imagine the guy who happens to end up with the woman who is ... well, unattractive? I wonder what would happen if the Groom found the Bride just too ugly to continue the ceremony. This brings new meaning to the term blind date. This is blind marriage!

7. Tossing Rice

So as we have established, newlyweds bring good luck. Guests would try to add to that luck by showering the couple with nuts and grains, to insure a healthy harvest, and many children to work the land. In times of poor harvest, guests would toss rice instead. Today, throwing rice at the Bride and Groom is still a practiced custom at many church weddings.

8. Tying the Knot

Next time you say you are "tying the knot," perhaps you will have more of an appreciation as to what that actually means. During the Roman Empire times, the Bride wore a girdle that was tied in knots. Before the couple consummated the marriage, the Groom would untie the knots on the girdle in order to undress his new Bride. So then, wouldn't it be called "untying the knot?" Im confused. Now if you have seen any old movies, you probably have noticed just how much time it takes to untie one of those girdles. A looong time. Ages. I guess this was considered to be their version of foreplay, since by the time that thing is untied; it could be well into their month of isolation from society.

9. The Toast

The term of the "toast" comes from France, where a piece of bread was placed in the bottom of two glasses for the bride and groom at the reception. While the guests watched and cheered on, they would "race" to see who could drink fastest and get to the "toast." The winner would make a short speech and was said to be the person to rule the household. It is quite amusing that somehow this fun drinking game involving a piece of toast and a short speech has somehow become 5 different drunk, awkward relatives giving 20 minute "had to be there" type stories until the guests officially fall asleep in their soup.

10. Shoes on Vehicle

Oh those wacky Romans. This one is also quite bizarre. On the wedding day, the father of the Bride would give the Groom his daughter's shoes. Why, you ask? Well, to symbolize the transfer of authority over the Bride, silly! In later years, guests would throw their own shoes at the happy couple as they exited the reception. Today, this tradition still lives on in some weddings; when guests and friends tie pairs of old shoes to the back of the car before the couple leaves the reception. All of this makes me glad I buy my shoes at Payless. Hell, if they are going to be given to a man, why should I spent money on them? And what the hell does a man do with a pair of women's shoes anyway once they are in his posession? Wait. I don't want to know.

11. Wedding Cake

Did you know that wedding cakes used to be made with no frosting at all? And forget about buttercream, strawberries, or mocha flavored cakes. These cakes were made of wheat and barley, and then broken over the Bride and Groom's HEADS as a symbol of her fertility. Huh? How does having cake all over your head mean you will be fertile? Oh well. Hey people, I didn't write this stuff, I'm just the messenger. Anyway, after the cake was broken over the heads of the couple, guests would scramble around trying to get a piece of the cake for "good luck." Yum yum. Cake that has been on someone's scalp AND on the floor. In later years, it became tradition to stack many smaller cakes as highly as possible in a tower. The bride and groom would then try to kiss over the cakes without knocking any of them down. If they did knock them down, they would be killed instantly. Just kidding. Making sure you were paying attention. During the reign of King Charles II of England, bakers began adding icing ..and the modern day version of a wedding cake was born. Interestingly enough, I could not find any ancient reasoning behind the "smashing of the cake." It looks like this is just one of those things that we Americans picked up from ourselves. So you see? Even in ancient times when women were bought and sold by men and carried kicking and screaming over the threshold to their new husbands; even these people had the good sense to know that you don't smash cake into your new wife's face. That would certainly bring on Evil Spirits.

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for the next Top 11 post, leave a comment email me at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

A Tanzanian Proposal

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 19:16:12 EDT

We came across this super romantic proposal and had to share it with all of you. I mean, who wouldn't want to get proposed to under the Tanzanian moon?

Find more videos like this on NewTeeVee Pier Screenings

Confession of the Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 16:34:00 EDT

"My finace told me I would burn in hell if I wore a white dress because I am not a virgin"

Confession of the Day

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 15:59:45 EDT

"I found out my live-in boyfriend of 1 year has a dating profile and has paid $80 for it in March(while we were living together/dating) So I went to my mom to see what she would do about it.

She said "It's none of your business!" Wow!, I am Dating him/Living with him!

What would make it my business??

I'm Still stunned....."

Kelley Lynn and Don's Wedding Blog

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EDT

The Proposal

Don and I had talked for months about getting engaged, but still; on the day he proposed, I didn't know it was coming. It was the Sunday before Christmas, my very favorite holiday. After a 5 year long-distance relationship, the Florida boy finally decided to pack up his life and move in with me, to New Jersey. This was his first holiday season here, and seeing NYC at Christmas-time is a must. So I took him all around to see the lights at Tavern on the Green, a horse and carriage ride through Central park, a walk up 5th avenue; and finally ending with the grand finale.. the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. He took my hand and we somehow made our way through the thousands of people until we reached the base of the giant tree. I still remember how colorful and gorgeous all those lights were in the dark; and how cold it was that night, about 25 degrees! We stood there for a few minutes, with a huge crowd of mostly tourists viewing this NYC treasure. Then he kept fidgeting, and saying over and over, "So, Merry Christmas honey. Merry Christmas. " He must have said it 10 times. He reached into his jacket pocket and before I knew it, he was down on his knee proposing. He said a whole bunch of stuff that I'm sure was really meaningful, except I couldn't really hear him because there were so many people cheering, clapping, and yelling. One guy screamed out, "Hey, this guy's proposing!" and flashes started going off. It was so surreal. I had to take my mittens off to put the ring on, and I just remember crying so hard that I couldn't see. I think I cried harder and more during the proposal than I did on our wedding day. I just couldn't believe how perfect it was. Standing there, surrounded by thousands of strangers in the greatest city in the world. That evening put into motion my idea for a Christmas-themed wedding.

The Wedding

There were so many holiday touches that we put into play that helped make the evening stand out. Its amazing the little things that people remember. Perhaps the biggest surprise of all was the Hot Chocolate. I wanted to do a Christmas-y holiday-type drink that we could have served with the wedding cake toward the end of the night. So I came up with the idea of Peppermint hot chocolate with candy canes and whipped cream. The staff did it up homemade for us; using real cocoa and chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon, and milk. The candy canes melted and gave it this amazing taste. The staff at our venue came around with mugs on silver trays, and the guests went crazy. It was sooooo good! Later that night when the reception was over, the servers told us how noone wanted any coffee; and everyone kept demanding more hot chocolate! One table of our friends drank so much, they finally just brought out a whole pitcher and left it there! Months after the wedding, people still tell us how that was the best hot chocolate they have ever had. The ironic thing is; the whole thing was my idea, and I never even got to try any! So at your wedding, remember to eat the food and drink the drinks ... you might never get the chance again.

Confession of the Day

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"I wish we could just elope and get it over with. I just want to be married and the planning combined with the closing on our house that's coming up is driving me crazy. Las Vegas?"

A New Kind of Bridal Party

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EDT

Let me just begin by saying that I realize how silly this idea is. I really do. Even so, I am going to move forward with saying it anyway.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to not have to deal with wedding party conflicts?

Maid of honors who refuse to help, bridesmaids who hate every dress you chose, a Best Man who makes a drunken embarassing speech at your reception. I am sure that all of us at some point have wanted to just throw our arms up in the air and say "You're All Fired!," Donald Trump style.

Recently, a friend of mine wanted to include her precious dog in her wedding, so she decided to use her dog as the ring bearer (he carried in a fake ring on a pillow). She figured this would not only save her money on a tux for the little one, but she also wouldn't have to deal with the sometimes challenges that having a kid in the wedding party brings. The dog was a hit. He even gave a bark or two, and stood up at the alter while the bride and groom exchanged their vows. Very cute.

Well, it got me to thinking. (uh-oh.)

What if we started not only using our pets for ringbearers or other minor wedding roles, but also bigger, more important parts of the wedding? This would not only be cute, but it would sure solve a lot of headaches that some Brides have while planning their weddings. I can't even tell you how many endless stories I have heard from friends about nightmare wedding parties who simply will not cooperate, support, or help in any way. They complain. They whine. And hey, let's face it - they cost money! We have to buy them gifts for being a part of the wedding, treat them to a nice rehearsal dinner, and even splurge for their hair styles and makeup! Who needs all that expense when we can just fluff up Miffy, throw her in a dress, and turn her into instant bridesmaid? Think about it. No more attitude about dresses being ugly, shoes too expensive, or anything else. No more having to accommodate your Matron of Honor, her 13 children, and her "wheat grain only" diet. From now on, your NEW matron of honor will eat Puppy Chow and water. Just imagine the level of stress automatically decreased! I know it sounds silly, and perhaps it is, but I think I might be on to something here! Just picture it:

Meet your new Officiant, Cuddles:

Sure, it might be more of a silent ceremony; but hey, you can write your own vows. Less is more anyway, right? And look at all the money you'll be saving by paying your minister in dog biscuits and treats.

Your Matron of Honor, Cloe:

Awwww, how cute. Doesn't she look adorable? And listen to that noise ... the sweet sound of silence. No more complaining from your new and improved Maid of Honor. And you, my dear Bride, are sure to steal the show with this dog beside you!

Your Bridesmaids, Pinky and Squeeky:

They're twins! Isn't that precious? And those bows in their hair are the most expensive things you'll be spending on these cuties. Even better, no worrying about shoes!

Your Limousine Driver, Toodles:

Okay, okay, so she isn't "technically" licensed to drive a car. But why nitpick? This furbaby has fire in her belly, and she learns very fast. Even after her 17 fatal accidents, she is still going strong and wants to get you to your reception destination. Just think ... no tip required!

Your Cocktail Hour Bartender, Stevie:

Stevie is a cool cat who knows how to party. He will make sure your guests have a great time. The bar will be fully stocked with top of the line liquor. However, Stevie is incapable of actually understanding what people want or pouring the drinks. He is very capable of looking striking in his 70's style suit.

And lastly, your Bouncer, Killer:

Is that Mother in Law getting out of hand again? Having issues with your too nosy videographer? Did your uninvited cousin Eddie show up with his uninvited 15 illigitimate children? Do not fear. Your bouncer, Killer, will surely take care of any of the above problems. Sure, he looks sweet, but they didn't give him his name for nothing. Make sure your wedding is a place of peace and tranquility by having this ferocious Tiger take care of any conflicts that should arise. Just don't look at him the wrong way, or for too long. And please whisper while around him, he tends to strike randomly when hearing loud noises. You'll be fine.

So as you can see, this new idea for an All-Pet Wedding surely makes sense!!! I hope that you agree, and that you will take these ideas into account when planning your own wedding. (The staff at Brideorama.com does not condone nor approve of hiring a live tiger as a bouncer for your reception. Please use caution and common sense when reading Kelley's blogs.)

As always, I want your input. Are any of you planning on using your pets in the wedding? If so, how? Do you know anyone else who has? Tell us the story. Was it cute or did it make things more chaotic? Inquiring pet lovers want to know. And so does Killer.

This silly blog is lovingly dedicated to our sweet cat Isabelle, who; after 15 great years, went to pet heaven on Monday, August 15th. We miss you Izzy, and we love you always. Email Kelley at Kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 15:49:50 EDT

"If you don't like the way your body is, don't say you "can't" stop eating, because you can, and you know it. Stand up to those relatives who are being mean to you. For crying out loud people, we're adults. Quit blaming everything on external factors and start taking responsibility for your life. How on earth do you think you can have a successful marriage if you can't control your own actions?"

Signature Cocktails: Champagne Cocktail

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 15:46:05 EDT

Serves 8 1 bottle (750ml)

Champagne, chilled 16 oz.

Grand Marnier 4 oz.

lemon juice

8 sugar cubes

Divide and pour into each glass the Grand Marnier, lemon juice. Drop in the sugar cube and fill each glass with Champagne. Serve immediately.

The champagne toast at the wedding marks a joyous end to formalities and a splendid beginning of festivities. Champagne is celebratory in itself, but when mixed to make a cocktail, it becomes a decadent addition to the party. Champagne cocktails are perfect for receptions any time of the day. For a morning affair, omit the lemon juice and add in fresh orange juice. Having a champagne cocktail need not break the bank, there are many fine champagnes for every budget, and one on the drier side goes best when adding liqueur and other sweet ingredients, like sugar cubes. Cheers!

HEY BRIDES! Your Guests Have RSVPed, and boy, are they PISSED!

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:24:46 EDT

Everybody loves a good wedding. Most of us, especially women, love being invited to someone's wedding.

We love going to the shower, shopping for gifts for the happy couple and especially attending the actual celebration. Most of us love weddings so much that we attend many of them gladly in our lifetime; supporting our friends and family members time and time again in their moment of everlasting love.

HOWEVER ... for every great wedding we attend, there are also many that we don't particularly enjoy. In today's world, we all hear so much about the bride's demands, what the bride wants, all hail the great and powerful bride!!! Well, I thought it was time to turn the tables and find out what the GUESTS want. Or more importantly, what they don't want.

So in order to get an honest, outside perspective from real women who have attended many weddings in their time, I polled a few friends on the message boards over at brides.com. After asking them their biggest pet peeves and dislikes about weddings from a guest's point of view, and after adding my own take on the issue, I am now proud to present to you my latest top 11 list.

Our top 11 biggest wedding complaints ... from your GUESTS

1. Invitation Proclamations — Of course, as a guest invited to your wedding, we enjoy receiving the invitation in the mail, admiring it; looking at how beautiful it is. But there are a lot of things about invitations that make us ... well... unhappy. Pamela from Massachusetts doesn't like it when the directions included are bad, or especially when there ARE no directions provided at all. Pam and many others also made it clear that they do not want to see registry information anywhere inside the invite, or worse, ON the actual invite. In fact, it is really best to have no mention at all of gifts anywhere on a wedding invitation. Why? Because it implies that you are "expecting" a gift, and technically, gifts are optional. So putting detailed wording about all the stores where you would like gifts from is, well, tacky. It also doesn't do much to make your guests feel welcome. And speaking of feeling welcome, another popular complaint regarding invites is when a fiance or live-in partner is not directly invited to the wedding, but instead written in as "and guest" on your invite. This is acceptable if your guest is clearly single and dating openly, but when a guest has been living with their partner or FIANCE for more than two years and you don't include them on the invite, that just gives us an icky feeling.

2. There will Be a three-hour intermission after the ceremony — As guests, we understand that sometimes there has to be a time gap in between the ceremony and reception. That is fine and totally acceptable. But when you feel as if you could go see a movie, get some dinner and then perhaps finish that novel you've been meaning to write — all in enough time to make it back before cocktail hour, then perhaps you are making your guests wait too long. C.J. from North Carolina puts it best: "I don't enjoy waiting in a banquet hall listening to Muzak while sipping the half cup of warm Pepsi I just spent $4 on for three hours so the wedding party can take 6,000 pictures." A good solution to this issue? Try taking some or all of your formal pictures before the ceremony, or if that's impossible; provide your guests with a place to go or a list of things to do in the area during the interim.

3. The never-ending toast — When you are the happy couple, being toasted is fun. Wow. All these people talking about us, saying how much they love us, telling funny stories! What could be better? Well, a route canal, for one. Sure, toasts and speeches are great fun, and if you have someone who knows how to keep it short, sweet and get the crowd on their side, they can be a hugely memorable part of the reception. But so many times, this is not the case. Sue from Michigan hates when the "Best Man is drunk, goes on and on, thinking everyone is interested and laughing at himself." And she is right. There is nothing worse than some drunk, rambling guy. With a microphone. And 200 people listening. Kristen from Edmontun adds, "I prefer short, heartfelt speeches. Why do you want 10 different people droning on and on for an hour?" Well, Kristen, you don't. And your guests don't either. So make sure whoever is toasting you is not only sober, but a willing participant. At our wedding, my matron of honor made it clear that she did not want to do a toast, because she hates public speaking. So I told her that was fine, and spared both her and our guests from the awkwardness of a forced toast.

4. The obnoxious disc jockey — Let's face it. There are great D.J.s, so-so D.J.s, and then there are D.Js from Hell. I think most of us have at one time experienced the Hell version. You know, the one who will not stop talking during the songs, making loud noises such as "yahoo!" and "woo hoo!" way too often, and talking in that annoyingly phony put-on voice. The D.J. from Hell can literally ruin a wedding reception. Just ask Lauren in Georgia: "He literally would not shut up. For every one song he played, it was another five minutes of him jabbering on about nothing. He also advertised his own services out loud several times during our reception." Dana from New Jersey finds all of the organized dances that some D.J.s do to be just as irritating. "I hate being forced into doing stupid games," she says. " No, I don't want the centerpiece, and no, I don't want to limbo for it." Perhaps the most infuriating thing about the D.J. from Hell is when they are so busy congratulating themselves, that they forget to do their job! "I missed all the important parts of the reception like the cake-cutting and formal dances, because the D.J. never announced anything," chimes in Liz from Illinois. Basically, most of us love to have fun and dance — we just don't enjoy being told when to do so or being "forced" into it when we would rather sit at the table and talk to friends or eat more food.

5. I now pronounce you husband and ... RIIINNNGGGG!

Cell phones are only one of many pet peeves that your guests have about the ceremony. Others include roasting in a dress and pantyhose during an outdoor ceremony on the hottest day of the year, not providing chairs for guests and making them stand uncomfortably in their dress clothes, and not being able to see anything thats going on. Even more annoying, not being able to hear. Misha from New York might have been moved to tears when her friends exchanged their vows ... too bad she couldn't hear them. There was no microphone or any kind of sound system, so unless you were the minister, it probably sounded a lot like how the teachers speak on "The Peanuts" cartoon. "Waah ... waah waaah waah waah. Waaah." Another common complaint? Excessively long religious rituals or customs without any explanation about them. A good solution? Let your guests know what the meaning of such rituals inside your ceremony program. Like Dana from New Jersey says, "It helps if your guests know what they're watching." Yes, Dana, it certainly does.

6. Some traditions just need to go away — and, according to a lot of the women I spoke to over on brides.com, it seems that not many of us guests enjoy the bouquet-and-garter ritual anymore. I know I don't. We chose to do the aAnniversary dance instead at our wedding (check out one of the questions over in the Get Advice section to read more about that). But back to the bouquet. Erin in Florida explains that the bouquet toss is embarrassing "for the bride, the crazy girls who will knock over a grandma to catch the bouquet or the poor girl that is being dragged onto the dance floor against her will for the toss." As for the garter, Lauren and many others find it "just plain creepy." She goes on to say that the creepy factor goes up when the groom is blindfolded, or when the couple does a version of the garter removal using children. Oh, so creepy.

7. Musical Chairs — The seating chart. Probably one of the most stressful parts of wedding planning for a lot of brides. So let me start by saying that I think your Guests understand this and sympathize. Still though, most of our sympathies end when we are seated next to the air duct or next to the smelly restroom in the corner, almost as if we are in a different room entirely. The bigger the wedding, the more complicated the seating. But certain things should be simple. Like ... seating people who are family together. Jenn in New York thinks that some couples do the seating chart as if its roulette wheel, asking "Why would you purposely put me with people I don't know, when my sister is at the very next table?" Sarah in D.C. went to a wedding in which her fiance was in the wedding party. He was seated at the head table. And where was she? "I was forced into a far corner of the room with complete strangers." So while doing your seating charts brides, keep in mind that a lot of your guests will be spending a lot of their time at that table. Do your best to make them as comfortable as possible.

8. Food and Drink —This category had maybe the most amount of replies and variations of complaints. I think it is safe to say that your guests feel very passionate about their food! And water. A lot of women wrote about servers not refilling water glasses, or worse, having to pay for water at a reception. Other ladies don't mind if the bride and groom have a cash bar, but they would like to be informed ahead of time so they can prepare for it and have some, uh, cash. Now, when it comes to the food, opinions were strong that there should be more than one option on the menu. Kat from Georgia states, "Sorry, but I don't eat red meat. What about the vegetarians?" Another popular peeve is the buffet. Not the buffet itself, but how it is handled. Erin in West Virginia hates waiting in a long line for the buffet table, or being the last table to be allowed to go up and eat. Her solution? "We had the soup and salad courses served at the table, and our guests really loved that." Anne Marie in New Jersey adds that some venues take so long to complete dinner service that it ends up cutting into the all-important dancing time. Other issues include passed hors d'oeuvres that are hard to get at, and heavy dishes stuffed with cheeses and cream sauces.

9. Please Say Thank You — Just as with the invitations, your guests love receiving the "thank-you" letter after the wedding is all said and done. That is, of course, if they ever receive it. Suzanne in Oregon thinks its quite rude for a couple to never send a thank you note, and I agree! "I took the time to spend money on a nice gift for you, but you can't take 10 seconds to thank me for it?" she says. Another recent fad that seems tacky to us are those "preprinted "thank you" notes." You know, the ones where the message is already typed into the card and all the couple has to do is sign it. Wow. Talk about insulting! Now it's too much trouble to write a sentence or two about the gift I sent you, and maybe how nice it was to see me at the wedding? Hmmm, maybe I should have taken that second hundred-dollar bill out of your gift envelope during the second half of the reception after all (don't judge me ... you have thought about doing that too). Maybe worse than no "thank you" note is an unsettling phone call, like the one that Cailee in Kentucky got after her friend's wedding. "The couple called us to see where the gift was bought, so that they could return it." Now that's class!

10. Stupid Themes — The common thought on this seems to be that although a simple theme for a wedding can be nice, it seems to have gotten a bit out of hand. Eve makes the point that some brides get "too caught up in the wedding being some kind of beauty pageant or fashion show," instead of a simple celebration of the couple's love and new life together. Sarah in D.C. has this to add: "A girl I know is having a Cinderella-themed wedding, and I can't even listen to her talk about it anymore, because it makes me want to puke!" Please don't puke Sarah. That would clearly ruin your friend's happy Disney theme. Hey girls, the point is this: Themes are fine with your guests for the most part, as long as it makes sense. If you have a wedding theme, it should reflect who you and your groom are as people. For example, my entire life, I have loved the Christmas holiday. My husband proposed to me under the Rockefeller Center tree in NYC. I always pictured a Christmas-themed wedding with small holiday touches. So we did that, and it was very much a reflection of who I am as a person. Also, don't let your theme get in the way of the actual meaning of the day. If you are more concerned about whether your gold napkins fit in with your medieval theme than you are with the wording of the vows, then you need to reset your priorities. Again.

11. Act Happy, DAMMIT! — When all is said and done, a great wedding comes down to the atmosphere and the people. If the couple is truly happy and having a great time, it is obvious. And if they are not ... well, its obvious. And there is nothing worse than being at a wedding where there is tension in the air. Tension between family members, the couple, anyone involved in the wedding planning. As a guest, its sort of like when you go over to your married friend's house, and they argue the entire time you are there and act as if you aren't there. Hello? Im standing right here. Are you really fighting right in front of me? Well its even worse at a wedding. Whatever you went through to put this shindig together — all that stress, planning, fighting with in-laws — now is not time to rehash it during the reception. I will leave Jan from Arizona with the last word on this subject. "The wedding should be a happy occasion. Hearing the bitterness of others can really bring the mood crashing down, even if it's overheard only casually."

Perhaps just as uncomfortable as watching tension is being ignored completely at a wedding. In my opinion, if you dont have a chance to say, "hello" to everyone that came to your celebration, than you have too many people there. Your guest's arent expecting much, really. Janet from Texas is only after "a hug and a 'hello' is great. Just some sort of acknowledgement that I was there at their wedding."

So when you are planning your wedding; brides, please stop to think about one of the most important factors to your big day ... your guests. The people who love you, support you and made time and effort to be there for you on this day. And in return, you can treat them with respect — and most of all, just be happy.

As always, your opinions are welcome here. As a wedding guest, what are your biggest complaints? What drives you crazy about weddings?

E-mail kelley at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 11:13:41 EDT

"I pissed off my best friend by asking my sister to be my MOH. Now my Best friend and I aren't speaking. Tonight my sister gave the impression she doesn't want to be MOH. I'm so freaking sick of this crap! I just want to get married and have everyone be happy for us!"

White after Labor Day?

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Yes, you can wear white after Labor Day! White weddings are making a comeback, during all seasons. Throw away your Peggy Post and pay attention to the details! Whether a traditional church ceremony or mod leather lounge affair; white can make an elegant statement on the beach or in a ballroom. Winter white weddings are particularly lavish under a clear tent illuminating the snow. Seashells and leis make excellent accessories for the getaway wedding. From orchids to white chocolates, feathers and pearls, white is rich and lush in all textures and event mediums. Easy on the eyes and easy as an accent color, white is the new black! Paired with any color in your swatch book (think bright orange or teal), white will make your other event colors pop. Or keep it clean, all white, and understated and the result will speak volumes. White is white hot once again.

Photos from top left: A, B, C www.aboutdetailsdetails.com; D www.tictock.com; E www.soolip.com; F www.hautebride.com; G www.whitelilacinc.com; H www.ticktock.com; I www.whitelilacinc.com; J www.aboutdetailsdetails.com; K www.caravents.com; L www.thecakegirls.com

Plus-Sized My Ass!

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 13:33:52 EDT

Okay, it is time to get this out in the open where everyone can hear it. Consider this a big giant SCREAM in written language. I will not type the entire blog in capital letters (internet speak for yelling) because I imagine that would be incredibly annoying to read. So I will just inform you ahead of time that the general mood of this particular blog is ANGRY. Why so angry, you may ask? Well thanks for asking. You are very kind. Well, dear readers, I am angry because I am not a Size 2, or a 4, or even an 8. I am not even a Size 10. Or 12. Still with me? Because I can go higher. I probably have your curiosity now about my size and weight. Well I'm not going to tell you what I weigh, but I will say that my size varies depending on store, brand, time of month, what I've eaten, and about a zillion other components. Normally, I fall somewhere between a size 18 - 22. Now you men out there will read that statement and not understand how someone can "fall between" all those sizes. Well, we can. I can go into one store and buy jeans that are an 18, and go into another store and buy jeans that are a 22. Sometimes this happens in the same store!!! This is why it takes us girls so long to shop. It is not something I enjoy doing. So you can imagine that if I have that sort of trouble buying jeans, what I would run into while trying to choose a wedding gown. Let's just say that I predicted this process would be a total nightmare ahead of time, so I was prepared.

The world of weddings is not made for the non-skinny. Hell, its not even made for the average woman who is much smaller than me. No, the world of weddings is apparently made for girls who look like small boys and date men that walk around nude. Why do I make such a ridiculous statement? Well because these are the typical pictures we find in most bridal magazines. Pictures of "brides" who look to be about a Size 0, draped in some horrible "dress" that resembles a curtain, and behind them is a naked man, sometimes with wings. Yes, wings. What is the meaning of this? Have you ever dated a nude man with wings growing out of him? Or married one? If any of you have, please let me know, and I promise you I will retract this entire article. I do not understand who these bridal magazines are targeting. It certainly isn't me, or any of my friends. Or anyone I know down here in the real world. Because in our world, our men are dressed in suits or tuxes on our weddings day, and guess what? We are probably smiling! We are happy. All of the women in the bridal mags look as if they are suffering from the worst case of p.m.s imagineable. They never smile. They look pissed! Or maybe they just need a sandwich. In any case, most of these magazines did not help me when I was shopping for a wedding gown. They only made me more insecure and quite frankly, confused.

If I thought the magazines were bad, that was a picnic compared to walking into the bridal shops. You would think I was an actual elephant walking in there, instead of a bride-to-be who happens to be overweight, from the rude stares and comments I would receive. Some of the staff, who were mostly on the tiny side, treated me with a condescending voice, as if I was a 4year old child instead of simply fat. "Hi there. We don't carry Plus Sizes on the floor. You have to get them special ordered, okaaaay?" Gee, could you say it a little louder? I dont think the entire store quite heard you humiliating me. Trying on a dress I liked was even worse. They would either lie like hell about how beautiful I looked when the dress clearly didnt fit or looked awful on me, or they would say something like, "Sweetie, you'll probably want to go with something along these lines, so it will help to hide all of those problem areas." Problem areas? Okay that is it. I am out of here. I tried on ONE dress in one shop before I gave up on the idea altogether. I just couldn't do it. I don't enjoy phony salespeople judging me based on my looks, while simultaneously trying to sell me something that is very expensive. Maybe its just me, but I sort of like dealing with people who don't think I am a piece of crap for no reason.

So I had my dress made by a seamstress. A woman named Dianne who is a good friend of my mother's and has been making dresses and clothing for a long time. She was wonderful. I went to her house, she offered me tea, and she never once used the term "plus-size" or anything else that would embarass me. She made me feel like I would be beautiful on my wedding day, and together we created the dress that I felt completely comfortable in. It was great.

Some of these bridal shops, magazines, and the wedding industry in general should take a cue from people like Diane who have their own part-time business that they run with care out of their homes. Treat people with kindness. If someone is overweight, chances are, they are full aware of their size, and do not need a constant reminder from you about how difficult it will be to find you something to make you look human. Make people feel welcome, not fat.

Email kelley at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"My sister is getting married in 27 days and she still doesn't realize her fiance is gay."

Wendy and Mark's Wedding Blog

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EDT

Congratulations on your recent engagement! I have to admit getting engaged is a very exciting time in your life. Enjoy the engagement for a bit before you start planning your wedding because the process can be very time and money consuming. Also, your fiancé is very proud of what he has just committed himself too; let him enjoy giving you the shiny diamond ring and being “engaged.”

Planning your wedding can bring the both of you closer. It certainly brought Mark and I closer because each of us put our own personal touches into the wedding. The entire wedding process enabled our families to become close as well. This was very important because we value our family and want to keep it growing.

Since getting married doesn’t happen often, remember to splurge a little. This is a very special moment in your life and if you want something, go for it!

Confession of the Day

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 17:53:29 EDT

"The closer I get to my wedding date, the closer I get to having an affair with my ex."

Confession of the Day

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 15:00:00 EDT

"So, my wedding was this past weekend. I was a no-show. I ran off with my fiance's brother ...

I confess."

Signature Cocktails: Mango Mojito

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 14:10:20 EDT

Serves 10, 15 oz.

10 Cane Rum

6 oz. mango nectar

10 mint sprigs

5 limes, or 5 oz. lime juice

5 tsp. raw sugar

Soda water to top, if desired

Muddle the lime, mint and sugar together in a large pitcher. Add mango nectar, ice and rum. Mix well and pour into glasses. Garnish with mint and add a splash of soda.

Serve your guests the drink of the moment. In the past few years, the mojito has taken the cocktailing world by storm. Usually made with a typical blend or rum, natural sugar, lime and mint, the mango adds a bit of exotic tropical mystique, not to mention great color!

Dear Jessica ...

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:10:32 EDT

Dear Jessica,

This is a great question, and you are smart to be thinking about things such as this before your wedding day. A Wedding Day "Emergency Kit," as its often referred to, is sort of like health insurance. Ninety-five percent of the time, its useless and you don't need it; but on the off-chance that you do need it the other 5 percent of the time, you are more than grateful to have it.

A Bridal Emergency Kit is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It is a collection of items that you, the Bride, bring with you on your wedding day. Things that you might very well need; or things that fall into the "just in case" category.

What goes into an Emergency Kit can vary greatly depending on what your circumstances are, what things your venue or bridal suite might already have available to you, and what you feel you might need. If you have a wedding coordinator, this is something he or she will most likely put together for you, especially if he or she is doing his or her job correctly! But if not, you can certainly put the items together yourself. As far as what to put them in, I would highly suggest one of those roll-up traveling cases that have see-through compartments, can be unfolded and hung from a door. This way you can actually see each and every item that is inside it and be able to find it easily.

Here are my suggestions for some necessary items to go inside an emergency kit:

extra buttons

straws (so you can drink water or other beverages while getting ready and not ruin lipstick)

hairbrush, hairspray

snacks like a Power Bar, crackers, an orange, grapes, bottled water

sewing kit

shoe polish

antacid, aspirin, and Ibuprofin

safety pins, bobby pins

clear nail polish (to help with runs in pantyhose)

extra pair of pantyhose

Band-Aids

mints, toothbrush and toothpaste, mouthwash

sanitary napkins, tampons

duct or masking tape (for fixing broken doorknobs or table legs, etc.)

scotch tape, scissors

stain remover pen (like Tide)

white envelopes (for vendor tips)

extra pens

extra copies of any ceremony readings

mini hand-dryer

list of phone numbers for all vendors (also put each one in your cell phone)

handy wipes, baby powder (this can help anyone who is sweating)

deodorant

cough drops

static guard, lint roller

You get the idea. Basically, if you plan ahead for anything that "could" go wrong on the big day, you will be better prepared for any mishaps or happenings that might occur. And that will make you a happy bride!

Oh, and dont forget the marriage license!!! Thats kind of important.

E-mail Kelley at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:51:18 EDT

"OK. So I am NOT shitting you. We just got back from our honey moon.

This is insane.

Our wedding was on Saturday. We went to the mountains to celebrate. He then informs me that he can't have sex with me because he thinks he is GAY.

What. The. Hell?????

So this is why he wanted to "wait."

He also wants to stay married to me, even though he feels awful about deceiving me. He wants kids ... how do you think you GET kids?

Summed up. I'm screwed. Gay husband. I have an appointment with a lawyer to see about an anullment.

Wish me luck."

The Wedding Weekend a la Target?

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:44:36 EDT

I wondered if it could be done: Could one pull together the entire wedding weekend attire at one location — that being Target in this case — for under $350?

I KNOW this is not for everyone, but the thrill of the challenge just makes me "wanna see."

So here goes.

Friday: The Wedding Rehearsal

Something chic, cute and comfortable. My choice? This heather grey bubble top from Xhilaration for $14.99; with that, we're pairing a Patrick Robinson white bubble skirt at $11.99 and silver strappy heels by Mossimo for $19.99. Let's finish this off with the cutest of totes by Isaac Mizrahi for $20.99.

Total for the rehearsal and dinner $67.96.

Saturday: The Wedding Day

For your wedding day, there really are options. You have all checked out the wedding gowns by Isaac Mizrahi at Target. The Silk Cowl Dress in Opal Creme or Stucco (Champagne) is made of 100 percent silk. The bias cut on this dress adds so much dimension!! Even if purchasing your wedding dress from Target wasn't an option, this is the perfect second dress for your reception to shake your body in. Very sexy!! Only $129 and available long for taller girls too.

Add a "Cathedral"-length veil by Isaac Mizrahi measuring 116 inches for $18.99 (this is insane!!) and a sassy little sling back called Haidee for $22.99 (I splurged!).

I decided to go against the grain with a large necklace to make a statement against the simplicity of the dress and for $19.99 ... why not? Another $19.99 nets us black pearl-drop earrings to finish the look.

Total for the Wedding Day $ 210.96

Sunday: Post Wedding Brunch and Farewell

So now you're married and want to have brunch with your out-of-towners before they head back to their respective homes. This little number ($27.99) is perfect with a pair of cork wedges ($12.49). You are ready to say ta-ta to the fam and head straight for the airport with your new hubby.

Day After Wedding :$40.48

Total for the Weekend :$319.40

Target has free shipping with minimum purchase, which is great. So you could actually plan your entire wedding weekend online. Add a few additional clicks and you can order the bridesmaids dresses, flower girl dresses and tuxedos for the groom and groomsmen (and buy another pair of shoes with the $30.60 you have left over from your purchases). Returns and exchanges can be made within 90 days. Get to clicking ladies!!

Confession of the Day

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 15:57:46 EDT

"We were married six weeks before the wedding. The night before the wedding, I had sex with one of my bridesmaids. I kept it a secret from my husband for years. Then I told him, and everything is better."

Drum Call

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:15:58 EDT

The African Dance was an unexpected treat by Gwen and Jonas. This is truly diverse celebrating.

Surprise everyone by opening your ceremony with African Drums. There is a hush in the audience (hopefully, they're not shocked and confused). Then, in the distance, a succession of rhythmic beats. Ancient instruments fill the air. Regally, majestically, and powerfully, the bride enters. Your subjects rise in respect and awe! It's a moving experience.

In the African Diaspora, the drum is used to tell many stories of celebration. How you want your story told is very much up to you. There are many different rhythms and songs that come from Africa. Learning what you want will be a wonderful journey.

Atiba Kwabera-Wilson is the artistic director of Songhai Djeli, a folkloric performance ensemble dedicated to the musical traditions from Africa. Their audiences are thrusted into an experience of edu-tainment. By creating a joyful presentation, your story will be told, remembered and shared like the griots of antiquity. More on the African Diaspora.

Cure For the Romantically Challenged

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:10:45 EDT

Is your beau a wonderful man who shows up when you need him? Strong and will protect you? Lives every day as if it's his last and takes you to great heights? Once gave you a vacuum cleaner, a frying pan or some other product to help you domestically as a birthday present? Hey, wait a minute! Something is not right here! If this sounds just too familiar, there is a cure out there.

So many men have great intentions but have no idea of what's romantic and what's stupid.

Indulgences' Concierge for Him can rescue you from a fate filled with vacuum cleaners and other less-meaningful gifts. They will "help" him create moments that will last a lifetime. Like choosing the flowers for a perfect bouquet to an evening that could include a rose-petal bath complete with candlelight.

Men do see things differently, and this is the perfect service to give him a gentle shove or a kick in the backside. Just call it romance insurance for the two of you.

There is a Concierge for Her, too. The issue isn't that she is romantically challenged, it's learning to say "no" to a damn vacuum cleaner as a present.

10 Reasons to Go Pro: Why Hire a Hair and Makeup Artist?

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EDT

1. Because you spent a lot of money on that photographer!

2. Because you want to relax on your wedding day. Sit back, be pampered and enjoy it!

3. It's an easy way to make your maids look their best without hurting their feelings. You don't have to tell your BFF that her signature blue shadow isn't wedding day appropriate — let the pros handle it.

4. Because let's face it, your signature blue shadow probably isn't appropriate either.

5. Locking a veil in place isn't as easy as it looks. You've got a lot of dancing ahead of you …

6. Blood, sweat and tears. You don't want to have makeup running down your face when your father gives his toast or when you get down with your hubby to "Play that Funky Music."

7. Didn't you spend a lot on that dress; those earrings or new Manolos? Why wouldn't you do the same for yourself?!?! You want a finished look that will complete the ensemble.

8. Because curling the back of your head requires Cirque Du Soleil talents that most of us don't have.

9. Because you get to do a trail before the wedding, making for a fun night on the town or super-hot engagement photos.

10. Duh!!

Photos courtesy of Mariah Nicole Makeup & Hair Artistry

What A Wonderful White Wedding

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 17:30:17 EDT

We all know that a traditional part of a wedding reception includes a "father-daughter dance." However, in most cases, the songs are slow and it's a very sentimental part of the reception.

That's not always the case ... especially at this wedding ....

Destination Love

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 16:00:00 EDT

When Gaye and Gary decided to make it official, they opted for Paradise. Many places on earth will come under that heading, but not many are actually named Paradise Island. This warm and friendly island is one of 700 in the Bahamas. Family and friends stayed at the Atlantis and they married at the more intimate Ocean Club.

I asked Gaye some questions about her destination wedding. Here is her response:

1. What is the best thing about having a destination wedding?

First, Gary and I both love the islands. We had spent considerable time in the Caribbean and in the British Virgin Islands, so we knew that it would be a great backdrop for our wedding. Second, we wanted to extend the celebration of the wedding with our friends and family to something more than just the one day. Having the opportunity to enjoy them over several days was great! Finally, neither of us was living in our hometowns, so finding a neutral point for our mutually traveling friends and family seemed more feasible.

Photo by photographer Vincent Vaughan, telephone (242) 324-3561
Bahamas Wedding Images

2. What was the worst thing?

My worst thing was that they lost or gave to another bride our wedding cake after the wedding. We were staying at the Ocean Club after the wedding for a week, and thought that since we couldn’t get the cake back home with us, we might enjoy it for dessert over the course of the week at lunch or dinner. We had it for dinner one time and then the next time they brought someone else’s cake to our table. I was not pleased, but became even more disappointed when they couldn’t find it, because they had already given it to another bride who had checked out of the hotel. The hotel felt terrible and offered other solutions, but none that could replace my actual cake! My tip for other couples is to decide how you want to handle your leftover wedding cake and make necessary arrangements in advance if you desire to transport some of it with you back home. Our other challenges were in the area of coordination. Coordinating arrivals and making sure that people were aware of all the activities, etc. I would definitely suggest a check-in point or point person (not the bride or groom), as the keeper of information, room changes, additions, etc. We had guests who stayed in the two main event properties (Atlantis and Ocean Club) and those who stayed in other properties. There was some information drop sometimes with guests who stayed at other properties. Primarily, our experiences over the entire week were very good, not only for us, but echoed by our attendees as well.

On-site wedding coordinator Patricia Adamson

3. How did you like the services at the Ocean Club and Atlantis?

I loved the service at both. We worked extensively with the staff of the Ocean Club including their wedding planner and were extremely pleased. She went the extra distance for us on the cake, flowers, shuttling us to complete marriage-licensing process and managing last minute changes. I would say that another big help to everything was having my own wedding coordinator, my friend Patricia, who knew everything that I knew in terms of how I wanted the event to be laid out and flow. This allowed me to not fuss with the details on the day of the event and truly enjoy our wedding.

4. How was the food, cake, main meal, etc.?

My guests are still talking about my menu and our wedding in general. I think that speaks to all of your questions. Guests had a choice of two menus (one fish and one meat); during our photo shoot, they were able to enjoy a garden cocktail party complete with a chef preparing fresh conch fritters and a serenading violinist. The cake was a simple but scrumptious creation of yellow cake with pina colada/pineapple filling and vanilla butter-cream frosting. My caution for couples is to really work your head count. Having no-shows is financially very inconsiderate to the bride and groom at $100 or more per person. Confirm attendance and then confirm again!

5. Would you recommend a destination wedding to anyone else?

Absolutely! It was a grand time for everyone. A chance to make some wonderful memories with new family members and friends. There is an additional expense in having a destination wedding, but in the end, I think it is very comparable to the traditional wedding costs but with some extraordinary benefits.

6. What were the other things that made this special?

Things that made our wedding event special: All guests received an arrival gift bag with info on the island, a gift for the man and the woman (and child) if appropriate, an item specific to the island and a welcome letter and event agenda. Our rehearsal dinner buffet was open to all guests and turned out to be one of the most outrageous nights, and guests really let their hair down (following the program). The hotel was very gracious in letting us stay in the room well after our event was essentially over. We had a sunrise church service on the morning of the wedding just for guests. It was a very warm testimony of love and friendships. Finally, the advice that I would most leave with any prospective bride or groom is to spend ample time on getting to know each other in as many aspects as possible. After all, no destination wedding is memorable if the couple is divorced soon after. We are happy to report that 2007 will mark our sixth anniversary. It’s work, but we’re loving the journey!

Felicia and Ernest's Wedding Blog

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my wedding. Ernest and I had a lot of fun on our cruise. Now 3 1/2 years later, we’re living a great life together in New York. We keep our lives full by pursuing our creative endeavors. I’m a jewelry designer –- www.harujewelry.com -- and Ernest is a motion-graphics designer.

The idea of a “destination wedding” was one that had a very organic being. Neither of us had a grand vision of what our wedding should be like, although Ernest always pictured a handfull of people at our wedding. Our wedding felt more like a vacation adventure with a twist. When I think of weddings, I think of all the hoopla and the stress of who will be in the wedding, what will your colors be, what will the reception meal be like, etc. You end up inviting so many people that you never get to spend any quality time with them.

Instead of spending a lot of money on making sure our wedding guests enjoyed our wedding, we spent money on us. After all, every bride will tell you that your wedding day goes by at the blink of an eye and you never really get to relax and enjoy your moment without worrying about something not going according to your “dream” plan. In my world, worry doesn’t equal FUN.

To make sure we included our family and friends in our happy occasion, we planned a cocktail party in New York about a month after our wedding. It was great! It gave us a chance to really spend time with everyone and truly have fun! We made sure to incorporate the island theme of our wedding into the cocktail party. We had a special island-themed cocktail made by City Hall Restaurant, cupcakes with blue icing to match the color of the ocean, and we gave everyone miniature beach-themed candle favors.

When planning your wedding, remember the golden rule: Be true to yourself and fiancé … don’t cave in to the pressure to have the wedding that everyone else wants you to have.

Best of luck!
Felicia

Confession of the Day

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:19:01 EDT

"Our wedding cake is made of twinkies "

Are you a Bridezilla? Take my QUIZ and find out!

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:55:46 EDT

Ah, Bridezilla. The term has been used so often in today's world of reality TV and celebrity weddings, sometimes its hard to tell whether you actually fit the word description. That is why I am here to help you. There is a fine line between wanting things the way you want them and sacrificing friendships, family and fiances in order to get them. So which category do you fall into? Normal, sane female planning her wedding? Or out-of-control scary; needs help Bridezilla. All you have to do is take this short, fun quiz to find out. And, as always, while most quizzes have 10 questions, this one goes to 11.

1. You have decided on a style and theme for your wedding, and you approach your bridemaids about their hairstyles and colors. You ask them to:

a.) get matching blue dresses, and matching updos; which you will pay for.

b.) get matching blue dresses, and dye their hair and shoes powder-blue to go along with your Tiffany-themed wedding. All at their cost of course.

2. You are watching an episode of "Bridezillas," when you think to yourself:

a.) Wow, that girl has some serious anger issues!

b. ) Why can't I be on this show? Why are they spending so much time on this stupid girl? I am soooo much more bitchy than HER!!! I HATE HER! I HATE HER! I HATE HER!!! (stomping feet and running out of the room.)

3. Your wedding cake is:

a.) decorated with beautiful edible flowers, and topped with gold-colored icing

b.) decorated with actual flowers flown in from Eastern Europe and topped with icing made of actual gold.

4. When you think of your fiance, you feel:

a.) so happy and grateful to have found someone who you love so much

b.) he better be grateful to have found and landed someone as perfect as you

5. Your flower girl is:

a.) Your favorite niece, who is cute as a button and who you are very close with

b.) a perfectly quaffed white persian kitty named Princess, held by a perfectly cute little girl, whom you hired from "rent a flower girl."

6. Your mom offers to pay for your wedding dress, but tells you her budget for it is $1,000. Your reaction is:

a.) to be genuinely thankful for mom's generosity and include her in on your shopping search for the dress.

b.) to scream in a whiny voice about how she doesnt understand you or your "vision," and then threaten to "uninvite" her to the wedding.

7. At the reception, you and your groom are seated:

a.) together at a "sweetheart table"

b.) together on an elevated platform stage, which rises every few minutes in order to best "present" you to your "audience."

8. In your invitations and RSVP's, you include the following:

a.) directions to and from the site, hotel information and an itinerary for the weekend's events.

b.) an insert explaining the minimum requirement of a $200 cash gift in order to attend, registry information for Tiffany's and Trump Tower, and an itinerary of what the bride will be doing every minute of the wedding weekend.

9. You give your photographer a list of pictures you absolutely require to be taken on the wedding day. This list includes:

a.) pictures of family, wedding party, parents, candid fun guest shots, etc.

b.) pictures of you at every angle and location possible.

10. You ask your DJ to play a special spotlight dance in honor of:

a.) your grandparents, who just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

b.) You, for no particular reason.

11. When reading this quiz, you failed to see:

a.) how anyone in their right mind could act this way while planning their wedding

b.) why the answers under the letter B would ever be considered absolute, absurd, need help, Bridezilla behavior.

CONGRATULATIONS!!! So how did you do?

If you answered with mostly A's, you are a sane and normal bride who is happily planning her wedding. Sure, there are some minor stresses along the way, and we ALL have our Bridezilla moments from time to time. Everyone is allowed one or two, right? But overall, you can rest assured that you have everything under control -- and not in a scary way.

If you answered mostly B's, you are a BRIDEZILLA to the 10th power. Actually, there probably isnt even a word for what you are. The term Bridezilla doesn't seem to cover this level of craziness. You clearly have no soul and do not concern yourself with petty things like other human being's feelings. Your reception might be longer than your actual marriage, and you make major life decisions based on what Paris Hilton did or what style wedding J-Lo had. You have issues.

And lastly, if you answered mostly C's, you are certifiably insane; because there was no C to choose from. Get help, and get it fast.

Feel free to play along. What do you think makes someone a Bridezilla? Have you had any Bridezilla moments yourself? Its okay, you can admit it. We are all friends here. We won't judge ... much.

Email Kelley at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EDT

"It's not that I have doubts about whether I should be marrying him. It's that I have doubts about whether I should be marrying ANYONE."

Confession of the Day

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT

"This is the first time I have ever felt so strongly about getting married. Too bad the man I live with is not the one. The one has been deployed. I can't wait to see him!"

Signature Cocktails: Pink Lady

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Large Pitcher
2 cups guava nectar or juice
½ cup apricot brandy
two bottles (750 ml each) dry champagne, chilled
fresh raspberries for garnish

Combine guava nectar and brandy in the pitcher, mixing well. Pour mixture into each champagne glass, covering bottom up to about an inch. Fill each glass with chilled champagne, garnish with berries and serve.

Bubbles, it seems, are the epitome of celebrations and puts everyone in a flirty mood, so lets have some!
The cocktail's smooth, guava flavor comes alive when it's mixed with champagne, and the apricot adds another great layer to the mix. It’s not only pretty, but quite tasty, and super easy to mix up.

A Unique Wedding Proposal

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 14:40:47 EDT

We found this amazing and unique proposal idea and just had to post it for all of you to see. If wedding proposals took this much time and effort to plan and there were more men out there like George, then maybe it would make up for all the time and effort that we spend planning the big wedding day.

But rather than explain the details, watch the video and see for yourself!

Confession of the Day

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:27:58 EDT

"We will be together forever. He knows too much."

Why Use a Limo? Hail a Cab!

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EDT

Here's a cute idea. Erica Turnipseed and Kevin Webb had an idea to use a Checkered Cab instead of a limo. They wanted to save money and still be creative. Erica had attended a wedding that had done the same thing. She began her search (the friend couldn't remember the company). Finally she found Film Cars. It was just what she was looking for at the right price. This gave the couple a unique New York experience.

Film Cars has many other vintage cars like a 1910 Ford Open Touring (black) to a 1961 JAGUAR XK-150 drop-head Coupe (black) and there is so much more to choose from. Their long list of clients include TV, video, movie and magazines, but many couples are making this a fun idea for the wedding day.

With a driver dressed as a NY Cabbie and the door decorated with ribbons and bows, the back window with "Just Married" written boldly, Erica and Kevin hitched a ride into a new life. This was a really a cute move!

Introducing Bridal Bar and Cherie Veils

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 09:46:34 EDT

Looking for something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue? Are you ready to find something different too? Then mark your calendar on Tuesdays because the Bridal Bar will be bringing you the latest and greatest in trends, colors, inspiring vendor creations and worldwide venues, right here on the Bride-O-Rama blog.

For a sneak peak, take a look at a famed celebrity photographer turned fashion designer, Cherie Cote’s new veil collection. Made to order from fabulous fabrics like Italian Silk Tulle, Taffeta and Coque Feathers; heads will turn, jaws will drop and your dress will be jealous!

Photo Credit: Cherie Foto
Website: www.cheriefoto.com

Confession of the Day

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EDT

If your child wasn't so horribly behaved or had any sense of the meaning of the word Manners, then ... guess what! They would be invited to my wedding!

I don't get why you're griping at me -- if you want your kid to be invited everywhere, then maybe you should have taught him or her how to behave in public.

Flower Power

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 12:35:21 EDT

Photo by Macintosh Smith
Flowers by Bed of Roses

Flowers are a BIG part of any wedding ceremony and the cost is BIG too. If you have been watching Platinum Weddings (religiously) like I have, you know the budget for the flowers exceed the cost of your entire wedding, honeymoon and all. According to the Cost Of Wedding most couples spend a bit over $2000, this can vary depending on where you live.
As you begin this process you will see how each flower seems to cost more than the last and has to be flown in from Mars on the space shuttle just for you. Those *#?@!! flowers! Before you get all Bridezilla on us, it’s not that bad. I think it’s great to have a vision, but choose flowers in season and try to get one kind that will fit your theme. This saves you in cost, the florist will order from local vendors. There won’t be an extra charge to fly a flower in for the wedding.
After all this spending for something that will die in a few hours later; why not put it to good use. Flowers can be donated to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It’s a good reason to get really good flowers for the day. The longer they last the more good they do. Log onto the I Do Foundation and see the many benefits of your celebration.

Center pieces by Decorative Choices by Maximum Glory
Maxine Baxter 718-941-1627 and Gloria Cones 718-377-1972

You may love the elaborate displays, but your wallet will will die a painful death. Broke, busted, and dollarless will do that. Keep it simple, Maxine and Gloria created each table to have a different centerpeice. In a low round clear bowl, the flowers had the table number nestled in it. The look was very exotic.

Another alternative will have you save your bouquet forever.

Crystols Bouquet’s Boutique will create a Swavorski crystal bouquets. These flowers won’t die a few hours after the wedding. Bridesmaids bouqets and your groomsmen boutineers can also be customized to match your wedding colors. Crystals are so hot now. It seemed like every bride on Platinum Weddings thought they were the most unique bride in the world when crystals were peppered throughtout their reception. But out of all those UBER rich brides, no one had a Swavorski bouquet, so you win! I crown thee The Most Unique Of All The Brides It The World!

-Cassandra Bromfield

Lisa and Tim's Wedding Blog

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 11:46:16 EDT

The best piece of advice I heard on my wedding day was actually something told to my husband by his friend. He said instead of trying to remember every last detail about your wedding day, which is overwhelming and impossible, remember one thing for each of the five senses. Remember how one thing looked, how one thing smelled, how one thing felt, how one thing sounded, and how one thing tasted. Focusing on these five things helped me remember the important small details. In an event that can go by in a blur, I think finding a way to remember the small details is important.

True Bride Confessions

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 15:16:39 EDT

One little confession caused quite a stir on TrueBride this week, sparking debate over where it’s best to meet your future husband.

"I know it is horrible,” the confession read, “but I think people that meet their spouses online are lame. I'm so relieved I met mine in college."

We at TrueBride try our best to never judge anyone for her confession. The whole point of our site is to get those secrets off your chest! But some of our readers got fired up expressing their personal stance on College Flames vs. Virtual Lovers. Here’s what they had to say:

• “If I hadn't met my fiance on MySpace, I'd still be the same lonely girl I was. We knew after 3 weeks we'd end up getting married. I've never been this happy with anyone before.”

• “I was a complete idiot in college. I can't imagine how a marriage-made-in-college would have turned out! Sheesh! I was still a CHILD!”

• “I met him on MySpace...Deal with it! He is better then any other guy I have ever been with. I thank god everyday for MySpace! Love you, honey!!”

• “I went to college for my BFA, and got it! I met my soon to be husband in college as well. I call that luck. I work my ass off, and I am one of the only people in my graduating class to work full time in my field!!! And I just graduated this may (in exactly 4 years) and I am also only 22!! Fuck you and your MRS degree! Go do some more online dating!”

• “I met my husband on match.com. He's the most wonderful man I've ever met. We're both busy professionals, and don't have the time or inclination to hang out at bars, churches, or other places where people often meet. I shudder to think how hellish my life would have been if I'd married my college boyfriend. Ack.”

• “I met my DH online after he divorced his college sweetheart.”

Regardless of where they met their No. 1 Men, all our brides were trying their best to manage their impending Big Days with grace and poise. A couple of them, however, had some major challenges to overcome!

• “I was floored when my best friend said that she didn't want anything to do with my wedding because ‘I'm afraid I'll be killed by a terrorist.’ My family and I are Muslim. We live in Iowa. So you think people in my family are terrorists? You think I'm related to terrorists?? My mother can be pretty bitchy, but come on. I will no longer speak to her--I guess I didn't know her as well as I thought I did.”

• “I'm going deeply into debt for my wedding...I was wrong to assume that we would get any help from our families, and now we're paying for 150 people to eat and drink when we can't even pay the power bill. How did this happen?”

• “I HATE MY FUTURE MOTHER IN LAW!”

• “What if he’s not the one?”

We can’t answer that last one, but we can leave you with this woman’s very uplifting confession:

• “I can't wait to marry my fiance!! I was always attracted to ‘tall dark and handsome,’ my fiance is short, balding, and super cute. ;) But ya know what? He makes me laugh and I can't wait to have all his short lil babies! ;)”

So, hang in there, ladies! Through all the logistics, doubts, stress and personalities, eventually Prince Charming - in his many shapes and sizes – will still be the one waiting for you at the altar.

Dark 'N Stormy: A Destination Wedding Cocktail

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 14:55:46 EDT

Dark 'N Stormy

2 oz Gosling's® Black Seal rum
4 oz ginger beer

Mix ingredients together in an old-fashioned glass over cracked ice, and serve.

It's the national drink in Bermuda. A blend of Dark Rum and Ginger Beer. Depending how stormy you want it, add more or less rum. Now we had fun with this drink. At first I kept calling it Dark' n Lovely. OK they had a good laugh on my account, but as the bartender would make refills the drink got a little darker and stormier. Then eventually someone was calling it Dark' n Horny. This is probably the whole idea.

Here's an idea. If you like the idea of a beach wedding but cannot get to 'The Rock', create your beach theme wedding using this national drink to start things off at your cocktail hour. Ask your bartender to pull back on the rum, your guest don't need to be drunk, but they should enjoy the blend of dark rum and ginger beer. Be sure and serve a non alcoholic version. Choosing a themed drink for the cocktail hour is money saving too. You are more likely to get a discount on one type of alcohol and can return unopened bottles. If you have an assortment of liquor and only one person orders a Whiskey Sour you have paid a bottle price for one drink.

Bermuda has many more intoxicating drinks, but this was my favorite, well it was the only one I tried.

Cassandra Bromfield

Confession of the Day

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 15:21:49 EDT

"Last night while we were getting it on, all I could think about was deposits and chair rentals."

Signature Cocktails: Margarita Madness

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:50:44 EDT

Large Pitcher
3 cups premium 100 percent agave silver tequila
2 cups pear nectar
1 cup fresh lime juice
1 cup Cointreau
½ Grand Marnier
3 limes
6 cups crushed ice
coarse salt for rims.

Combine the tequila, pear nectar, lime juice, Cointreau, and Grand Marnier in the pitcher and mix well. Add the crushed ice. Salt rims of glasses, and pour margaritas.

The classic margarita is a perfect thirst quenching cocktail to serve over the warm sultry months, I suggest whipping up a batch of this feel good drink for any of your wedding related festivities, it’s an instant party-enhancer!
The pear nectar balances the tart lime, and the salted rims are entirely optional, but I find it brings out the sweet-and-sour balance.

For alternatives: substitute the pear nectar with peach, mango or passionfruit nectar or juice. All found in well-stocked grocery stores.

Top 11 Reasons Its NOT a Good Idea to Put The Groom In Charge of the Wedding

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:51:37 EDT

Ah, wedding planning. Isn't it the greatest joy? (insert sarcastic tone here) Brides-to-be: have you had those days where you just want to pull your hair out, or preferably someone else's hair; out of pure frustration? Are you stressed beyond your wildest imagination; knee-deep in DJ contracts, color schemes, and bridesmaids dresses; only to look over and see your dear fiance heavily engrossed in a game of "Grand Theft Auto" on his Playstation? And in this frustrated, stressed-out level of persona, have you gone so far as to gently ask your beloved fiance for some HELP? Oh dear.

I remember one such day during my own wedding planning. I was annoyed, overwhelmed, and trying to book all the vendors on a time line, along with working a full-time job of course. We didn't have the budget for a wedding planner, and mom and dad live out of state, so I was pretty much on my own as far as the small (subtext GIGANTIC) details of planning. However, I had given my fiance one job to take care of. ONE JOB. Since our potential DJ was a good friend and ex-employee of my fiance's buddy, I thought it best that he call his friend to get the contact info for the DJ. So, days go by. Then weeks. I ask sweetly if he called his friend yet and got the DJ information. "Yeah I called and left a message, he hasn't called me back yet." This went on for weeks. The friend never got back to him. Finally, knowing that we were on a time line and needed to book this guy NOW or never, I told my fiance to please give me his friend's phone number and that I would call him. His response was, "Well okay, but what's the point? If he hasn't called me back, he isn't going to call you back either." Wrong. I called the number, left a polite but semi-urgent sounding message to get me this information, and guess what? He called me back immediately, the same day. We booked the DJ and all was well.

So what was the lesson in that little story? The lesson is this: If you think you want your fiance's "help" with planning your wedding, think again. His idea of help may actually cause you more stress and more work in the long run. Men, for whatever reason, don't seem to comprehend that weddings take time to plan, and that you have to start early. And that's not all - they don't understand about weddings. So in the end, do we really want our fiance's in charge of the important things regarding our wedding? Probably not. And If I haven't yet convinced you, here are the...

Top 11 Reasons Its NOT a Good Idea to Put The Groom In Charge of the Wedding ...

(I told you in my music blog that all my lists would go to eleven. Did you think I was kidding?)

11. Instead of tuxedos, camoflauge pants for the Ushers and tye-dye shirts for the Groomsmen.

10. Wedding Vows would include words like "Yeah," "Ditto," "Whatever dude" and "Cool."

9. Instead of flower bouquets, Bride would carry bag of chips for Groom to snack on during ceremony.

8. Bridesmaids would wear a selection of skimpy string- bikinis with stiletto heels.

7. All Sunday weddings would be banned during Football Season.

6. Wedding Cake would be of the Hostess or Little Debbie Snack Cake variety.

5. Classy Mozart ceremony music replaced by all "Ozzy" (or rocker of your choice.)

4. During ceremony, Bride would be forced to participate in emotional "giving of the Remote Control" custom

3. Why spent thousands of dollars on a stuffy, elegant reception site when we can just have wings at Hooters?

2. Dancing is out. Giant TV screen featuring "Guitar Hero" and "Splinter Cell" is in.

1. Signature cocktail ... Beer.

As always, feel free to add your own creative ideas to the list. I'd love to hear them!!!

Kelley Lynn
email me at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Get Advice: Dear Tiffany

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 11:01:34 EDT

Tiffany wrote on August 14, 11:42 am:

We are planning an outdoor ceremony probably on September 27th 2008 in the Catskills, NY. For a fall outdoor ceremony and reception when is a good time of day to begin the wedding? The reception will probably immediately follow a short ceremony at the same location.

Dear Tiffany,

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. First, let me say that an outdoor ceremony in the Catskills sounds absolutely perfect. As someone who had her own wedding last October on Long Island, I can say with much conviction that autumn in New York is really stunning; and a lovely time for a wedding.

So, the time of day that you plan your event depends on a couple of things. Really, at that time of year, a wedding would work well in early afternoon, or late afternoon into evening. It all depends on what style you would like for the event. If you're looking for an autumn Brunch or BBQ style reception with tents and such outdoors, then it may be a good idea to have an early noon or 1pm ceremony, followed immediately by your lunch or Brunch-style reception around 2pm. This way you can take advantage of the daylight hours for the entire event, if thats important to you. This is one option.

Are you more of a nightowl? Do you want to take advantage of the gorgeous autumn sunset for your ceremony? Then I would suggest, beginning just before sunset, with maybe a 5:30 pm start time. Since its a short ceremony and the reception is at the same location, one normally flows right into the other. So your guests will go from your ceremony straight over to the reception area, and get a nice view of the sun setting along the way.

One more thing to consider is pictures. If you are going the traditional route and not letting your Groom see you until you walk down the aisle toward him, then just keep in mind that you wont get to do many outdoor shots after the ceremony, since it will be getting dark around that time of day. So with that, I will take this time to inform you my husband and I chose to do all of our formal pictures before the ceremony. We did this because it would be dark after our ceremony, plus we didn't want to spend half the evening taking pictures while all our friends and family were inside eating, drinking, and enjoying our party without us! We loved doing our pictures beforehand. It was wonderful, and the moment that he first saw me in my dress was all captured on both video and picture. We got to have that moment and share it only with our wedding party and immediate family, which was very special. So it is something that I recommend doing, and this way, you could take all your formals while its still light outside.

Autumn is such a beautiful time of year on the East Coast because its never oppressively hot, and its normally not too cold either. So whatever time of day you choose will be just perfect. From personal experience though, I can tell you that we were extremely happy with our 5:30pm ceremony, flowing right into a 6pm cocktail hour, and reception ending around 11pm.

We started taking our formal pictures around 4:00pm, leaving enough time to relax before our guests arrived.

Whatever time you decide upon, it will be a beautiful autumn wedding I am sure.

Kelley Lynn
email me at kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Confession of the Day

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 11:50:19 EDT

"I'm so sick of being stressed out and over extended, its physically making me sick! And news flash to all of you family and "friends" who want to know what you can do to help out with my stress level, its your bullshit thats making me stressed! Just let us do it our way!!!"

Gwen and Jonas' Wedding

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:10:00 EDT

It's so cool to get this chance to re-live the “big day.” Especially since it’s such a whirlwind at the time. As a good friend said, “it’s all spin and kiss and spin and kiss.” Which is quite true. But I do have these very strong visual memories: like walking down the aisle and seeing Jonas there waiting for me, as well as a hundred smiling faces cheering us on. It was one of the most lovely and overwhelming moments of my life; to get to share my love for Jonas with all the people who mean most to us. And to see people from our youth getting to meet each other and become fast friends.

I remember we decided to hold a huddle/circle before we left for the ceremony site. Our bridal party was there, which included my sister and good friends and Jonas’ sisters and best man, and Jonas (who I was technically not supposed to see, but who cares) along with our families. We all took some deep breaths together, and wise and grounding words were spoken. It was such a supportive and encouraging send-off into a new phase of life. Then I got into a car with just my parents and sister and we drove to the ceremony site (a beautiful, peaceful section of Lithia Park in Ashland, Oregon). I could feel the transition from the roots of one family to beginning my own new one. Very sweet.

Often when I think of my wedding, or even when my friends do, we remember our daily mantra: “Good, Fast and Cheap.” The equation works this way: You get to have two out of three. If you want good and fast, then you’re going to have to spend a lot to make it happen. If you want fast and cheap, then you are going to probably sacrifice quality. And if you want good
and cheap, then it’s really going to take some time to do. We wanted good and cheap (or at least cheaper). And we really dug our hands in and did a lot on our own (along with many friends and family members) to help put on an affordable but beautiful event for less: we got wholesale flowers and assembled our own bouquets, made our own invitations, self-catered, had a friend officiate, decorated ourselves, etc… Though it was a lot of work, it was also really rewarding to create the wedding we wanted, and not make easy “cookie-cutter” choices.

Friends of mine who have gotten married since say they swear by the good, fast, and cheap rule. It also helps to clear up your priorities with your partner and with their family. That’s the interesting thing about weddings, everyone has a different idea of exactly what they should be, but ultimately, it’s for you and your future spouse to decide what best represents, and is most meaningful, to you. I guess it’s just a big balancing act between family needs and your personal vision for the day. And if you can achieve that balancing act, then the rest of your life should be cake, right? Three-tier cake with flowers and fondant!

Confession of the Day

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 09:40:31 EDT

"My husband was with me when I bought my wedding dress"

When An Eyelash Falls

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 02:46:23 EDT

When an eyelash falls out, put it on the back of the hand, make a wish and throw it over your shoulder. If it flies off the hand your wish will be granted. Stop! Wishing is lame, replace that eyelash or get some longer more dramatic ones from Extreme Audrey.

These are no drug store false eyelashes. They are Xtreme Lashes; individual semi-permanent lashes. Styles vary from a natural fuller look or a bold and dramatic flavor. The best part is the lashes can last up to two or more with out touch ups. That means when you wake up in the morning you can look like the day you said I do. OK, I know that’s pushing it, because your hair will be sitting one side of your head. Maybe even a little drool that precedes that morning breath. You may have to scurry off to the bathroom to get your self in order, but at least your eyelashes will look fabulous. Go ahead and be a little Extreme.

-Cassandra Bromfield

Glorious Bridal Shoes

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:00:15 EDT

Photo by Macintosh Smith
Dress By Cassandra Bromfield
Headpiece by Beauloni Style

Shoes play a big role in the wedding. We all know about the tying of shoes to the back of a car. This seemed to evolve from the Tudor custom where guests would throw shoes at the newlywed couple. It was considered lucky if they or their carriage were hit. This sounds more like a crowd trying to run someone out of town. A custom that is a bit confusing.

This above customs is a bit whacky by today's standards, but one ancient custom from the Sudan is still practiced today. In Sudan and India, mehndi is displayed primarily by married women on their hands, fingertips and feet. This is the art of body decoration through henna design. The designs can be very elaborate on the hands and feet. Designs give meaning to peace and kindness will also be worn during births and other celebrations.

So as you can see feet and shoes have a lot of meaning to the wedding, but today we just want a fly shoe to match a fly dress. This can be a tough search and I want you to put your best foot forward. Ahead is a list of shoe companies with wide widths, hand painted, and just off the chain fabulous shoes. This is the start to your big step down the aisle.

Ashley Dearborn
Dyeables (73 styles)
Touch Ups Bridal, Prom, and Evening Shoes
Just Married Flip Flops (perfect for beach destination weddings)
African Kente Shoes and Boots
Maloles
Wedding Shoes : Wide Widths
Lucky Wedding Shoes (hand painted shoes)
T.Taylor Designs (hand painted Sandals)
Silk Couture Bridal Shoes
Nine West Bridal Shoes many under $100
Sole Searching Bridal Shoe Gallery
House of Soles

Confession of the Day

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 13:46:15 EDT

"I was in my friends Wedding. I have been sleeping with her man for YEARS now (both way before and after they got married. He says that no one can give it to him like I can!"

Signature Cocktails: Melon Melody

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EDT

Serves 8

Large pitcher or bowl
4 cups pineapple juice
2 cups vodka
¾ cup Midori (melon liqueur)
½ cup cream of coconut
½ cup fresh lime juice
4 cups ice

For garnish:
cantaloupe
honeydew melon
watermelon

Mix the liquid ingredients into the pitcher. Add ice and shake well. Let sit to chill.

Using smaller end of melon baller, scoop melons into small rounds. Thread the melon balls onto large cocktail picks or small skewers. Strain ice from pitcher, pour into glasses and garnish with melon swizzles.

Note: Cream of coconut, not to be confused with coconut milk used for cooking, is a thick, sweetened coconut product available in well-stocked grocery stores and markets.

Reminiscent of a fancy martini, this sexy drink is perfect for a signature wedding cocktail. The cool shade of green and fresh melon garnish trio make this a superb summer choice to serve guests. After all, they can snack and drink! But much like the olive in the martini, the melon stack soaks up the drink, so be careful snacking!

Make Up, Please!

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 07:53:31 EDT

Photo: Macintosh Smith
Hair: Khamit Kinks
Headpiece: Beauloni Style

I don’t wear much make up -- much to the chagrin of family and friends -- lipstick is pretty much it. I do love those pretty, colorful packages. If it were my wedding day, I would probably buy everything; practice, practice and still come out looking like a drag queen on acid. That’s not because I don’t know how to apply makeup -- I can’t see a thing without my glasses.

Hiring a makeup artist can save you from this very embarrassing outcome. To find the right artist, begin with word of mouth. Friends and colleges can have the best recommendations. Pricing for this service can range from about $100 to more than $500. Traveling might be extra. The higher or lower the price does not determine who is the best; be sure to see some of their work.

Some artist will include your makeup for touch-ups later in the day. Have a trial run of how you would like your makeup for the big day; you should both be on the same page.

Remember, time is money and this extra time might be at an extra cost. Always have it in writing what you get for the money. All these costs might be out of the budget, many companies and department stores (Mac, Sephora, Aveda or your favorite), will give you a little lesson even if you don’t make a purchase. Then you can practice, practice and practice.

Here are some hot artists to check out:
David Harel Makeup
BGD Makeup
Evoluer Consultants

Cassandra Bromfield

Confession of the Day

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:03:55 EDT

I am terrified that a lot of people are going to leave our wedding after dinner, and the dance floor is going to be empty.

Get Advice: Dear Rodney

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 09:56:38 EDT

Rodney wrote on August 6, 8:26 pm:

er... i am a guy. Just wondering about how long exactly you should give yourself to plan for a wedding. I totally suffer from IGS (Insensitive Guy Syndrome) . So before i get to the point where i say something dumb like "lets get married like next month?" and then get yelled at for this......TELL ME PLEASE!!!! :)

Dear Rodney,

Well, what have we here? My very first question in the Advice Column, and it is not from some confused, stressed-out, panicky bride. Instead, the inquiry comes from none other than that strange, often mysterious, yet sometimes misunderstood person that we like to refer to as "the Male."

Now, you are lucky. I have some prior experience with the male species and their dilemmas. I have a brother. And let's face it, I did marry a male. For the past seven months, I have managed to figure out his style of man-speech and dialogue. So, when I read your question, I think I was successful in decoding what it was you had to say.

First, lets deal with the idea of you referring to yourself as someone suffering from Insensitive Guy Syndrome, or IGS. Although you are correct that this is indeed a severe problem with male-type people, I must disagree with you that you have this particular disorder. It is my opinion that you do not have this disease. If you did have it, you would be much too insensitive to think about such things as planning a wedding, and you also wouldn't be posting about your issue on a site titled "Brideorama."

I applaud you for your bravery in coming here for answers. Perhaps this will start a revolution with the male species. Maybe more men will log onto this site because of your courage. Maybe men all over the world will start becoming more sensitive to their women's needs. Maybe there will now be a second site called "Groomorama," where men like this will unite as one and talk about tuxedo colors and ties and ... Oh, who the hell are we kidding? Nothing has changed because of your question. But I still thank you for asking it.

So, your question. How long does one typically need to plan a wedding? There is no one answer to this. It really depends on several factors. You need to set a budget. Figure out how much you are realistically able to spend and what you want to spend on a wedding. Then you need to decide what type and style of wedding you and your fiance would like to have. Casual beach? Elegant evening? Something in between? These things are important to figure out because if you want to have your wedding on New Year's Eve at the top of the Empire State Building, you might need to reserve something like that a couple years ahead of time! However, if you are planning a smaller, more casual affair at Aunt Sue's beautiful country home, then the only reservations you need are whether Aunt Sue is free that day.

Typically, it's a good idea to start planning about a year ahead of time. If you live in a big city and/or your wedding will be during peak wedding season, you will want to book your venue and major vendors as soon as you can. If you are open to different times of the year, dates and days of the week, then you can be a bit more free with timing.

Bottom line is this: You and your fiance or girlfriend should be on the same page as to what kind of wedding you would like to have, when, and all other major decisions.

You mentioned saying to your significant other something like, "Hey, lets get married next month!" The fact that you want to say something like that to her makes me think you are a very spontaneous individual. That is great. But is she the same way? Or will she flip out if you give her only one month to plan a wedding? I think 90 percent of women may not want to plan an entire wedding in one month's time. So, if you believe your girl is in the other 10 percent, then go ahead and spring it on her. Just like with anything, know your audience. If you can predict how she might react to most situations, then you are in great shape.

Everyone is different. Some people plan a wedding in a year, others are engaged for two or three years before actually getting married. The truly impulsive ones don't plan much at all and love the idea of running off somewhere romantic together to elope. So knowing yourself and your partner will give you the best answer to how much time you will need to plan a wedding.

You never know. You may just surprise yourself and your partner by turning IGS into a much more appealing disorder -- Really Sensitive Understanding of Everything and Perfect In all Ways Guy Syndrome. RSUOEAPIAWS.

No, wait. That's too many letters. It'll never fly. Forget it.

-Kelley Lynn

kelleyiskelley@gmail.com
http://www.myspace.com/iamkelleylynn (regularpage)
http://www.myspace.com/mybusdriver (comedypage)
http://kelleylynn.blogspot.com
www.kelleylynn.com

What’s Up Under That Dress?

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EDT

Above Photo By Macintosh Smith

Dress by Cassandra Bromfield

Headpiece by Beauloni Style

You vowed to lose the weight, got a trainer, joined a gym and swore off fried anything. Still that pooch, bumpy thighs and those last 10 lbs will not move. Today there's tons of help for your frustrating figure flaws, and you don't have to go under the knife.

Spanx: You've heard about them on "Oprah," and in every stylish fashion magazine. They are perfect for your wedding day.
The Orchard Corset: 157 Orchard St., (212) 674-0786. This is an old-fashioned corsetiere, with modern styles in sizes just for you.
Bra Tenders: 30-years experience in the business, Bra*Tenders provides women's and men's undergarments, hosiery and specialty items to wardrobe and costume design professionals of stage, screen and TV. You know that's you, diva.

-Cassandra Bromfield

The Dress

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:32:56 EDT

That Dress, that dress, the oh so perfect frock of the century. So many styles, so many fabrics and ideas because you are getting married only once (you hope). From magazines, to TV shows, to the Internet, you will be bursting at the seams. How in the world do you pick the dress that means everything in the world?

First, I suggest, GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF! Drama Queens make really bad decisions. They can't ever be satisfied because obsessing is their first love.

Second, create a vision of your day. Make a scrap book, cut out pictures of magazines and write down ideas you love. Look at shapes that flatter your figure. Then, when you shop, you will only go toward dresses that work for you.

Third, start at the top, see what it looks like if you had a million dollars. If your budget can not handle the sky, then translate that into a less-expensive version. A dressmaker may be able to reproduce the look for less. I believe about ½ the cost of an original sounds about right for a skilled seamstress (never ask a designer to recreate another designers piece).
Note: Do not assume a $5,000 dress could be made for $500 or less. Check the business' credentials, see samples and ask for references.

Fourth, when you are shopping, take a shoe with the heel height for the big day and underwear like a strapless bra and waist cincher. Take notes, highlight and have fun!

Save Money Wear A Short Dress

Want to save some money? Choose a dress you can wear again. Like a short dress. This can still be very elegant. Pick something you will wear on your honeymoon.

Dress by Cassandra Bromfield

When choosing a short dress, make sure your shoes are very stylish since they know they will be seen.
Opt for very luxurious fabrics, like silks. This will feel really nice on the body, and he will love how it feels on you.
Still want to wear a long dress down the aisle? Get a three-piece gown, one top, and two skirts, long and short. This bride below changes into long shorts for her outdoor wedding fun.

Two-piece dress by Cassandra Bromfield

Showing off those legs is very popular today. Your look is chic, fashionable and you will have just as many options in short-dress styles. The wedding can still be over-the-top FAB-U-LOUS!

One more thing, make a statement with stockings that pack a punch:

-Cassandra Bromfield

… And have you ever wondered just what's up under the wedding dress? Check back tomorrow where we explore undergarments that make you look even more fabulous on your wedding day!

Confession of the Day

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:13:03 EDT

Yes, we are having children in our wedding! I just wish I didn't have to invite their parents …

My Top 11 Most Annoying/Overplayed Wedding Reception Songs

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:06:49 EDT

So I figured I would write my first "real" Blog about something I feel very passionate about: Music. One of the key elements to a memorable, fantastic wedding reception is the overall FUN factor and atmosphere of the event; which is captured partly by choosing the right music. A great DJ or band can read their crowd and knows how to create flow with a great mixture of songs: old and new, fast and slow. A bad DJ plays the same old crap at every wedding, no matter what the circumstances. When I attend a wedding, I love to dance and have fun at the reception. What I don't love is being forced into hearing the same tired old songs at wedding after wedding after wedding after wedding..... Sure, "Smooth" by Santana is a great song, but much like Larry King, it just gets old.

So, the following is my personal list of songs that particularly irritate me at weddings. Keep in mind that this is my opinion only, so feel free to comment or add your own song choices to the list. The songs will be listed in order from least to most offensive, ending with Number One. Can you guess what it is?

You may be wondering why this is not a Top Ten List. Simple. Everyone does a top ten, and just like with my wedding; I refuse to do what everyone else is doing just because everyone else is doing it. So there. Because this is a music-themed blog, I will borrow the words of Nigel Tufnel from the brilliant mockumentary "This is Spinal Tap," in explaining my new and improved list format ...

"These go to Eleven."

11. "Hot, Hot, Hot" by Buster Pointdexter -- Not, not, not. Could this song be any more irritating? Its like nails on a chalkboard. Whenever the Bride and Groom start the conga line, this awful song soon follows. We did a conga line at our wedding, but we used the Miami Sound Machine song entitled, "Conga." Made sense to me.

10. "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang --- this is clearly one of the most annoying and overplayed songs at pretty much any "celebration." Yes, we get it. We are celebrating. The song states we are celebrating. So we are singing a song about celebrating while we are celebrating. It's very deep. This song is especially awful when the DJ makes everyone scream/sing the phrase "celebrate good times, CMON!" There is nothing that kills a celebration more than forced-celebration. Besides, if you really want to play some Kool and the Gang, how about "Get Down on It" or "Jungle Boogie." Both outstanding choices.

9. "Shout" by the Isley Brothers -- This is another one of those audience participation diddys. That whole section where we are told to squat down then get up , then squat down, then get up while waving our hands in the air like we just dont care. I gotta tell you, I DON'T care. You know the part I'm talking about. Sing it with me now ... "a little bit softer now, a little bit softer now, a little bit louder now, a little bit louder now ... you know you make me wanna ...."

8. "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" by Meatloaf -- I will admit it, I just don't like Meatloaf. For dinner, yes. At a wedding, not so much. This is one of those moments where the DJ will split the room up and make all the girls talk to the boys like we are at some cheesy 7th grade dance. I didn't like being there the first time around, what makes you think I wanna go back? The real kicker here though is the ungodly length of this song. Don't quote me on this, but I believe the song clocks in at about 37 minutes. Okay, I'm exagerrating. It's only 27minutes. Point is, it's a long song. It never ends. By the time it's over, we might have to cut the wedding cake and skeedaddle outta there. No thanks. I think I will just wait and hear this tune at the 54 other weddings I will be attending throughout my lifetime. I can wait.

7. "YMCA" by the Village People -- This doesnt even require explanation; except to say that we all look like complete fools when we spell out all the letters with our hands. Trust me, its on my video. (this one slipped by against my will.)

6. "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor -- Whenever this song starts up at a wedding, I literally groan out loud. I dont get it. It's a wedding. A happy occasion of love. Why are we playing this song about revenge and anger and hey buddy, dont let the door hit you on your way out! This should be the theme song for Lifetime -Television for Women. But here's the funny part: I dont think I have ever been to a wedding where this song wasn't played; yet everytime it begins, every female in the place jumps up screaming and hollering and running out to the dance floor yelling, "oh my god, I love this song!", as if it's the first time they have ever heard it; and as if they are simply shocked it is playing. When this song comes on, I use it as an opportunity for a restroom break.

5. "Stayin Alive" by the BeeGees -- THE most overplayed dance song ever. And the funny thing is, it's really not a great dance song. It's hard to dance to. And I gotta tell ya ... the only person who doesn't look like a tool doing the John Travolta moves is John Travolta. The rest of us look like jackasses. It's gotta stop. A much better BeeGees selection for dancing is "You Should Be Dancing." Hence the title.

4. "The Electric Slide" by varoius artists, all equally mindnumbing --at number four, we are getting down to the truly offensive stuff. And this song, to me, is one of the worst. Everything about it is terrible. First of all, it promotes a form of line-dancing, which always seems depressing to me. All the middle-aged folk usually trot out to the dance floor for this gem, and proceed to dance in a trainwreck fashion. This display always reminds me of some hole in the wall, sad kareoke bar where songs like this are worshipped nightly by the regulars. When it comes on at a wedding, it's almost as if nobody really wants to take part, but they do anyway, like robots. Force of habit. Sort of like flossing. Just do it and get it over with.

3. "Macarena" by Los Del Rio -- Awful, awful, awful. Terribly awful, and even more awful. Simply horrific. Awful.

2. "Summer Lovin" from the Grease Soundtrack -- Another "split the room" classic. Okay, all the guys get on one side and all the girls on the other. Now guys, you have to sing "tell me more, tell me more, did you get very far?" and girls, you have to then sing, "tell me more, tell me more, like does he have a car?" Oh, someone please kill me now. Looks like its time for another bathroom break. I'll see you in there.

1. Yup, you guessed it. What else could it be but "The Chicken Dance." Oh, where to even begin. This song is so utterly pointless on so many levels. First of all, what does flailing your arms around and pretending to be a chicken have to do with weddings? what does it have to do with anything for that matter? Everyone hates this dance. It's just a nightmare moment when it comes on. It's almost a feeling of overall embarassment somehow. Like we have all collectively failed at life. This is it. The bottom of the barrell. We are doing the Chicken Dance. People always justify it by saying, "its for the kids." Then they force their kids out there and make THEM look like fools. I remember one wedding I attended years ago where the DJ brought out all the parents with their kids to the dance floor for the Chicken Dance. Out they came to be chickens. This one girl who was about 5yrs old or so, kept tugging on her mother's dress like she wanted out of there now. But her mom continued to do the Chicken Dance. Finally, the girl looked her mom square in the eye, folded her arms and said matter of factyl, "I'm not doing this anymore. It's stupid."
Then she took her seat at the table and enjoyed some wedding cake.

My thoughts exactly!

Just Like You - An Introduction

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 17:05:05 EDT

Hello, and welcome to Brideorama. Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kelley Lynn, and I have been asked by the good folks here at Brideorama to be a staff Blogger. I am honored and excited to do so.

So, since Brideorama is all about Real Brides helping Brides, the first thing you should know about me is that I am in fact a "Real" Bride. Now you may ask yourself: "Self, what exactly IS a "real" bride?" Fear not fellow Brides, for I have your answer. A real bride is someone who represents the everyday woman out there who is engaged, planning her wedding, or is now a newlywed. A real bride understands your issues, your dilemmas, your emotions, and what you value. Honestly ladies, what it means is that I am probably a lot like you. I struggle with my weight. For about a two week period during wedding planning, we lived on Ramen Noodles and peanut butter sandwiches so we could pay off our videographer. I am more comfortable going to JC Penny or Target than I am talking about famous fashion or gown designers. I buy my shoes at Payless. I watch wedding reality shows like "Bridezillas" and "Platinum Weddings" because I like the idea of escaping into their fantasy for a moment; not because I can relate to the people. Bottom line is this: planning a wedding is one of the strangest times of your life. It can be an emotional rollercoaster. I'm here to help.

I was married on October 27 of last year. I did all of the wedding planning details myself. My parents helped me a lot toward the end, but we live in different states, so I was the one who met with the vendors, kept contact, and took care of all the little things that turn into big things and start to stress you out. We had a beautiful wedding. It was a Christmas theme, and I included a lot of personal touches throughout the evening. Our evening was intimate, elegant, and felt like home. Most importantly, everyone had a wonderful time, including myself. Sometimes the Bride and Groom don't get to have any fun at their own wedding. They are too busy and too stressed and too exhausted. I made sure that wouldn't happen to me. I made vows to myself that I would enjoy every second; create moments with my guests, and leave there with zero regrets. I will give you all more details about my wedding as we go along. We have plenty of time. I would like to cover a broad range of topics that come up during wedding planning. The serious. The funny. All of it. In the coming weeks and months, I will be blogging about everything from etiquette, wedding registries, the dreaded seating chart, and anything else you can think of. I hope you will join me on this rollercoaster ride that we simply call ... your wedding.

In addition to the blogs, I will also be answering your questions. On the top of the homepage site, click on the GET ADVICE tab and ask your question in the comments section. I will try to reply to as many questions as possible, so please be patient.

I hope you will all check out my first "real" blog which will follow this one. The topic is Reception Music ...
To Be Continued ....

Kelley Lynn is a comedic actress and Adjunct Professor for Adelphi University. She resides in Northern Jersey with her husband. Kelley will be launching her business as a Wedding Coordinator by January of '08.
kelleyiskelley@gmail.com

Get Advice!

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 16:56:16 EDT

Hey there Brides-to-be, Brides, Grooms, Bridesmaids...

We all know how difficult and confusing wedding planning can be. That's why we're here to help! Need advice on bouquet flowers? Wedding dresses? Wedding invitations? Wedding music? Well we've got an answer for you. Our real bride and in house expert, Kelley Lynn is here to answer all of your questions and give you great tips on planning the biggest event of your life... YOUR WEDDING!

Here's how to submit a question: Click on the comment section below and ask away. Kelley will pick a question and post an answer every Wednesday, so remember to check back on our blog to see your question answered. And if it's not answered right away, keep checking back - we're doing our best to answer everyone!

Alicyn and Dominic's Wedding

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 15:43:49 EDT

Alicyn and Dom's Wedding

The Dress: Kleinfeld's in Manhattan. It was an Anne Barge and the veil was also from their and was a Lazzaro

The Venue: Crystal Point Yacht Club, Brielle, New Jersey

Flowers: Clark's House of Flowers, Staten Island, New York

DJ: Platnum Entertainment, Staten Island, New York

The Photographer: Take AIM Photography

Hi my name is Alicyn and I am married to Dominic. I hope you enjoyed the footage of our wedding and got some good pointers out of it.

I am so happy that we waited 18 months to get married. We were able to plan and save and not stress as much. Every detail that went into out wedding showed our personalities to a tee. I think that is what is important because the wedding is about the two of you and no one else. Hence the reason our beloved dog shared in our special day, tuxedo and all!

Not only did I get a great husband out of the wedding but I was able to start my own business. I always enjoyed doing creative things for showers and parties, but when it came time for my own I didn't realize how many ideas I really had. For me it is an enjoyment and I love doing it. It is so rewarding to see the look on someones face when the final product is presented to them. That is enjoyment enough. I named it Alicyn's Corner. If anyone who reads this needs any party planning tips or ideas just email me at Alicyn313@yahoo.com, and I will show you my creations.

Best of Luck to all you bride and grooms to be out there. And always remember, your wedding is only one day - make sure your treasure every moment of it because it goes by in the blink of an eye!

Alicyn & Dominic

Confession of the Day

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:47:59 EDT

"My FMIL and my florist are conspiring against me...

If I want stephanotis, I am getting stephanotis. Its my wedding ladies...."

Wedding Cocktail: The Welcome Cocktail

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:08:51 EDT

Serves 16

Large punch bowl or bowl
2 cups mango nectar
2 cups pineapple juice
2 cups dark rum
1 cup light rum
1 cup guava nectar
½ cup fresh lime juice

4 cups ice cubes

Combine all of the ingredients into a large punch bowl or pitcher.
Serve from punch bowl or pour into glasses.

Wedding planning is about personalization and special touches. What better way to make your guests feel special than to serve them a welcome cocktail? It’s an easy way to provide an instant lift for your guests as they arrive from the ceremony.

A welcome cocktail can be anything, from you or your fiancé’s favorite drink, to a family recipe celebrating its heritage. It can also reflect the time of year, a winter wedding, for instance, would be well served by an icy peppermint martini, while Champagne with a fresh fruit puree is perfect for spring.

If you’re planning a destination wedding, ask the wedding coordinator if the resort has a signature cocktail that could be mixed-up for your guests, adding a layer of celebration as well as a personal touch away from home.

The welcome cocktail should be colorful and festive, one that will appeal to the majority of guests, save the vodka shots for the after party, and try to have a non-alcoholic version available for those who don’t partake in libations.

As the summer wedding season is in full swing, a fabulous and flirty cocktail perfect for a group is the Mango Tango. With a winning combination of tropical fruit juices, the name alone adds an instant zing to any party, and is sure to make your welcome cocktail a memorable one!

Find this and other fun recipes fit for a crowd in Punch, chronicle publishers, or www.chroniclebooks.com

10 Things To Love About Planning Your Wedding

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 13:22:46 EDT

Your path to a perfect wedding can sometimes take dangerous detours. Accusations of misguided loyalty often surface, feelings of paranoia sometimes rise while watching everything spiral out of control. And that's just dinner with the in-laws. You've got to relax.

Honor a beautiful union, not the perfect shade of lavender. Your head may feel like exploding because the red roses are just a hue darker than the bridesmaids' dresses which now, of course, means that EVERYTHING IS RUINED. Honestly, it's not a plot by your jealous single friend to hold you back.

Step back and keep your eyes on the prize. Plan your wedding and when some things don't go quite right, have a plan B and by stay grounded, relaxed and informed.

No more temper tantrums.

1 through 10 the good stuff:

1. It's all about you: Well at least most of it is. If you are a closet narcissist, this is your time, and I mean the only time, this personality disorder will be tolerated.

2. Family and Friends: As you struggle to keep the guest list to a minimum, knowing all your peeps will be together for a celebration is something to look forward to.

3. Cash and Prizes: Let's face it you may not be in it for the money, but you do get great gifts. A Bridal Registry is a brides Wheel of Fortune. Pick out your dream gifts and see what happens.

4. The Dress: This one garment that makes your heart go pitter patter. This dress makes you feel good because you look good. It is so much fun to flutter around the dance floor and know that this is the most fabulous day of your life. Yes a dress brings you all of that.

5. Bargains: Planning a wedding means being shocked by all the costs involved. This is probably one of the all time large expenses you will have next to buying a home. Couples have been blindsided by the cost of flowers to limos. So when you get a bargain, discount, or freebee, you'll want to shout it from the rooftops. 10 percent will be like music to your ears.

6. Hair and Makeup: Ah yes, back to it's all about you. All at the beauty treatments makes you feel like a million (I know it cost that too). Have a practice run with your stylist and take a picture so there are no mistakes on the actual day.

7. The Reception: Celebrate, Celebrate, and Dance to the Music. Everyone wants to get their Electric Slide on (or maybe not)but you will want to get moving. Food, laughter, fun it's time to really have a good time and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Create a play list with your musicians or DJ. You don't want music to dance to while your guests are eating or low tempo sounds when you want everybody up on the floor. Put what music goes with what activity.

8. Ex- Boyfriends: How ya like me now? You see him. He's down on his luck, no doubt, he doesn't have you in his life. Upon telling him you're getting married he, falls to his knees, crying uncontrollably. He should have never let you go. You were always a strong, positive, powerful woman. NOW WAKE UP! You've gotten that off your chest.

9. The Honeymoon: Taking time to settle down and relax. Warm breezes and hot nights. You just can't wait.

10. Husband and Wife: Should this be #1, maybe, but when you're planning, 1- 9 is all you think about. When that moment comes that you are pronounced husband and wife, 1-9 disappears. The both of you enter into this union and become two powerful individuals together. It's something to look forward to.

Planning a wedding is a stressful task, but there is lots of fun stuff along the way. Plan your life together, it makes the party last longer.

Cassandra
www.cassandrabromfield.com

Lydia's Cool Engagement Ring Story

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 11:57:17 EDT

Hi! My name’s Lydia and I’m married to Zach. I hope you enjoyed our video and maybe got some ideas from it. One of the best things about planning our wedding was that we didn’t give ourselves much time; only four months, which left less time to stress out. The more time you have, the more time you have to stress about things that might not matter in the end. We got engaged on June 3 (my birthday) and were married on Oct. 2.

Zach had spotted the ring in San Francisco almost two years before; can you imagine he’d been planning to ask me to marry him for all that time? It took him all that time to track down the artist in Germany and at the last minute; the NIGHT BEFORE my birthday; the ring arrived in the mail!

Zach had planned to ask me on the Brooklyn Bridge as he wanted an accessible location to visit in the future but he got nervous and opted to ask me on our roof. It’s a real SCARY climb and I didn’t want to do it! I was also worried that we’d be late for brunch and I really wanted my “English-style breakfast” with the beans and the fried tomatoes because it was MY birthday! But he was insistent so I climbed the ladder and the rest is history.

Here’s a picture of the ring. It’s a glass diorama with a bride and groom inside. Isn’t it amazing?

- Lydia

Don't forget to check out Lydia's wedisode if you haven't already!