Bridal Planner 2010A product of

The Virginia Gazette

4 2010

Blush Bridal Consignment Boutique………………………………………...9Colonial Heritage………………………………………..………………..…...31Great Wolf Lodge………………………………………………………….…..…2Green Leafe Catering…………………………………………………......……21Harding, Marian, Harpist……………………………………………………...21Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts…………………………………………..….…27Mariners’ Museum…………………………………………………………..….…9Parletts………………………………………………………………………..….…19Pastor’s Doves, The………………………………………………………..….…27P.S. Paperie……………………………………………………………..……..…...3Schmidt’s Flowers & Accessories………………………………………..…...21Settlement at Powhatan Creek, The…………………………………..…...327 Cities Ballroom…………………………………………………………..…...21Two Rivers Country Club…………………………………………………..…..19William & Mary Catering Services…………………………………..….…15Williamsburg Bridal and Formal…………………………………….…...…27Williamsburg Winery…………………………………………………….…...…16

Our AdvertisersWedding Day Countdown…………………………………………………..…..5Stretch your wedding budget by renting……………………………………...6Who pays for what?………………………………………..………………..…...7Your Budget……………………………………………………………………...810 amazing wedding themes……………………………………………..…...10Ceremony Site Options…………………………………………………..….…12Bridal registry tips………………………………………..………………..…...13Ask the Caterer……………………………………………………………..….…14Invitations and more…………………………………………………………..…18Photography Options……………………………………………………….…20A new approach to the family-oriented wedding……………………..…...22Finding your dream dress for your wedding…………………………..…...24Floral Quantity Checklist……………………………………………………...26How to plan the perfect honeymoon………………………………………...28Honeymoon Information……………………………………………......……30

Articles and Worksheets

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• Have your first bridal-gown fitting. • Finalize ceremony readings and songs.• Order liquor/beverages not handled by caterer.• Meet with your officiant to finalize ceremony.• Research where to get your marriage license.• Prepare a photo and video shot list, naming important

family members and guests.

• Finalize your jewelry.• Finalize your “must play” and “don’t play” music lists.• Design and order your wedding program.• Confirm honeymoon arrangements.• Call guests who haven’t RSVP’d.• Pick up your wedding rings.• Get your marriage license.• Research how to change your name.• Mail your rehearsal-dinner invitations.• Meet with your stylist to test your bridal makeup and hair.

• Have your final gown fitting.• Finalize your wedding-day schedule and share with

attendants, parents and vendors.• Confirm all of your beauty appointments.• Confirm pick-up times, schedules, and addresses with

your wedding-day transportation.• Pick up your wedding dress and gather your accessories.• Pick up the groom’s outfit and gather his accessories.• Finalize your vows for the ceremony.• Give final attendance numbers to vendors and confirm

final date/time for deliverables and pick-ups.• Pack for your wedding night and honeymoon.• Create separate “wedding boxes” to gather your wedding

favors and ceremony and reception accessories, and assign people to transport.

• Finalize your seating arrangements and submit to caterer.• Prepare place cards.• Confirm dates/times/locations with all vendors and for

all photo and video sessions the day of the wedding.

• Prepare a list of payment envelopes earmarking who is responsible for distributing to vendors.

• Hand out ceremony, reception, and favor boxes to appropriate people.

• Rehearse ceremony with officiant and wedding party.

• Try to eat breakfast and drink plenty of fluids.• Be sure to wear a button-down shirt for your hair and

makeup appointments. — Courtesy of weddingchannel.com

• Introduce both families and announce your engagement.• Begin a budget.• Create a guest list.• Select a tentative date.• Choose your wedding party.• Create a wedding Web site.• Send your engagement photo to the local paper.• Book your reception site, and arrange for parking.• Book your ceremony location, including rehearsal time.

• Alert out-of-town guests of wedding date.• Book a florist.• Sign a caterer.• Order your gown and veil.• Select bridesmaid dresses.• Book your honeymoon.• Book a wedding photographer/ videographer.• Book your DJ/band.• Purchase wedding-dress accessories.• Choose your officiant.

• View wedding invitation styles & research proper wording.• Meet with bakers to sample cakes and look at styles.• Look for the groom’s tux & decide what groomsmen will wear.• Confirm your bridesmaids ordered their gowns and

choose their accessories.• Compare pricing, place your wedding invitation order

and book your calligrapher.• Purchase your wedding rings.• Choose your baker and finalize wedding cake.• Reserve rental equipment.• Research and book your rehearsal-dinner location.• Notify any family or friends whom you would like to

give readings, sing solos, etc.

• Finalize guest list and submit invitations to calligrapher.• Book makeup artist and hairstylist.• Order your wedding favors.• Purchase wedding accessories (candles, ring pillow, etc.).• Schedule your last tasting and finalize menu.• Find gifts for each other, your attendants and your parents.• Confirm tuxes have been ordered for groom/groomsmen.• Finalize wedding transportation.• Look into joint bank accounts and insurance.• Select your music and review with musicians, singers.• Update your registry.• Finalize rehearsal dinner plans.• Mail invitations eight weeks before your wedding day.

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Wedding Day Countdown

6 2010

Engaged couples long for a wed-ding day that will be unique andmemorable, but in these tougheconomic times many arebecoming more cautious abouthow they plan and spend theirbudget.

According to The Wedding Report, aresearch company that tracks weddingspending in the United States, the averagecost of a wedding in 2008 was $21,814.That is a 24% decline over the 2007 aver-age of $28,704. This decline doesn't meanyou can't have exactly what you want onyour big day to create your dream wedding.

“You can rent almost anything you need tomake your wedding match your vision,” saysChristine Wehrman, CEO of the AmericanRental Association (ARA), the global tradeassociation for the rental industry. “Byrenting items for your wedding, you haveaccess to products that may have otherwisebeen too expensive in large quantities. Youcan get exactly what you want at a price thatmeets your budget.”

Choose linens that match your wedding col-ors, or go for classic white to offset the colorof your centerpieces. Linens can be rentedin a variety of colors and textiles, and add atouch of elegance to every space. Createdrama without adding cost by creating amonochromatic design for your table. Centerpieces can be elegant or casual,depending on your style. Mix tall and short

Stretch your wedding budget by renting

72010

clear vases to add depth to your table and save money on largefloral arrangements. Or choose a variety of candleholders to cre-ate a vintage-inspired look and a romantic, low-light atmosphere.

Planning an outdoor wedding? Tents can transform any settinginto striking surroundings for your big day. Rental businesseshave a variety of tents to create the venue, as well as everythingyou need to make it beautiful and comfortable.

Large tents and elegant canopies come in a variety of colors andstyles. Many come with cathedral ceilings, windows or even cleartops -- allowing guests to catch a glimpse of a dramatic sunset ora sparkling night sky.

Many rental stores offer personalized service through certifiedevent rental professionals who are specially trained to help youchoose the right rentals to make your dream wedding come to

fruition. Most offer on-site support the day of your wedding, andthat's a day you'll be looking for all the support you can get!

You can also rely on the expertise of your rental store before youbook your venue. They can help you assess the potential site forthings like power accessibility, ground water issues or overheadpower lines that may interfere with your vision of a tall tent,among other situations.

The wonderful experience and memories of your wedding day willbe yours to own forever. And everything else? Well, that you canrent! To find your local rental store, visit www.RentalHQ.com,the world's largest rental store locator. You can search by geo-graphic location and by the specific type of equipment you arelooking to rent.

–ARA Content

Who pays for what?Bride/Bride’s Family• Bride’s gown/headpiece/accessories/wedding• Bridal brunch/wedding breakfast• Wedding ring and gift for groom• Bridesmaid gifts• Ceremony/reception flowers• Bridesmaid bouquets• Rented items for wedding and reception• Invitations/announcements• Wedding programs and other printed items• Church/temple and reception hall fees• Catered services• Wedding and video photography• Ceremony Musician/Soloist• Wedding favors

Groom/Groom’s Family• Wedding ring and gift for the bride• Bride’s bouquet• Mothers’ corsages• Groom’s, usher’s and

groomsmen's’ boutonnieres• Marriage license• Clergy/officiant fee• Limousine service• Honeymoon arrangements

Here are some typical expenses along with who traditionally is responsible.

8 2010

Your BudgetBUDGET: $ ESTIMATED COST ACTUAL COST

Rings

Marriage license

Wedding gown

Bride’s shoes, headpiece,etc.

Alterations

Grooming (hair, makeup)

Groom’s attire

Invitations

Reception site rental

Caterer

Cake

Ceremony expenses

Honorarium

Musicians

Transportation

Flowers

Bride’s bouquet

Attendants

Corsages

Boutonnieres

Ceremony & Reception

Photography

Videography

Gifts

Parties

Traveling expenses

Accommodations

Honeymoon

92010

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“Stunning gowns for savvy brides”

Over 400 current style bridal gowns in stock including brand new, designer samples and

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Plus a large selection of new and consigned veils, headpieces, custom jewelry, special occasion gowns and accessories.

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CONSIGNMENTS ACCEPTED BY APPOINTMENT

Grow old along with me!The best is yet to be.

–Robert Browning

10 2010

10 amazing wedding themesMany couples choose to have a wedding themefor their special day. It is a great way of coordi-nating the whole look and feel of the day as wellthe style and atmosphere.

Most will choose something that is close to their hearts, perhapscentered on a favorite film, a place or period in time. As witheverything wedding related the choice is a personal one and onewhich should reflect your own personalities and tastes.

If you are considering venturing down the wedding theme route,then here are some ideas to help:

Parisian Nightlife A Moulin Rouge style theme will certainly bring a sense of fri-volity and luxury to your wedding. Imagine draping your tables inrich burgundy linens, large candles and elegant candelabras, crys-tal chandeliers and accents of silver and gold. This whole theme

revolves around the opulence of the famous Parisian venue,arrange for some can-can dancers to entertain your guests andset up pyramids of Parisian saucers and create your own cham-pagne fountain.

Oscar NightImagine a Hollywood inspired wedding with an Oscars styletheme. Hire an opulent ballroom and set up a red carpet for yourguests to walk up as they enter the reception. Arrange for yourphotographer to be present at the entrance to photograph themon the way in Whilst giant Oscar statues may be out of yourbudget, you could look into having some chocolate versions madefor your wedding favors. Name your tables after your favoritefilms and play film soundtracks at your evening reception.

Roses and RomanceBring together a scheme of delicate pink roses and soft twinklingcrystal chandeliers. Drape your tables with pink damask clothsand have your florist create some beautiful centerpieces in goldurns. Decorate the walls with garlands of flowers and give yourguests heart shaped wedding favors. Make sure you have plenty ofcandles and tea lights to lit when the evening draws in to createa romantic atmosphere.

Tropical BeachThink Caribbean for this theme. The best location would be abeach setting of course, but with a little imagination you couldmake it work elsewhere. Set up a bar and serve tropical cocktails,let your guests finish their meal with a tropical fruit cocktailwhilst being entertained by a steel band. This is an amazingtheme for a relaxed wedding home or abroad.

Winter WonderlandA very popular theme and totally magical for a wedding. Imaginesnow, sparkling ice crystals, soft candles and sleigh rides.Decorate your reception room with icy birch trees and hangingcrystals. Stick to a color scheme of cool blues, white and silver.Arrive at your ceremony on a horse drawn sleigh and provideyour bridesmaid with warm fur wraps.

A Taste of the OrientAnother popular theme is Asian style. Wonderful weddings canbe created drawing on influences from the Far East. Think about

112010

fans, chopsticks, cherry blossom, cranes and fortune cookies.You can choose to go for stylish red and black or go Zen like witha simple, natural look, accented with bamboo and river pebbles.

A 1001 NightsThink Bedouin tents and nights under the stars in the desert.Let your guests sit upon low stools or silk cushions, whilst beingserved fragrant mint tea or champagne from embossed brasstrays. Hire belly dancers to entertain your guests and createrelaxed seating areas complete with coffee tables and Turkish del-icacies.Indian SpiceFollow the spice trail and create a beautiful and vibrant themebased around India. Drape sari’s over your tables, serve up tradi-tional Indian dishes and give your guests wedding favors of fra-grant spice sachets and pretty Indian bangles. You could even setup a henna table where guests can have beautiful henna tattoosdone.

Country and WesternImagine corn fields, barns and gingham. This theme is so easyto pull off and in my opinion will lead to a fun and fabulous wed-ding everyone will enjoy Keep everything slightly rustic, from thedecorations to the food, pure and simple is the order here. A bar-becue or hog roast would work well for your wedding breakfastand can be continued into the evening reception as well.Entertain your guests with line dancing and send them homewith lucky horseshoes or homemade corn dollies.

Highland FlingIf you or your partner have Scottish roots then celebrate them atyour wedding. Pick out a tartan that you like and use it for every-thing from your table covers and napkins to ribbon accents on

your wedding favors. Make table centers with Scottish thistlesand heathers and serve your guests a tot of whiskey on arrival forentertainment you could get them all dancing the highland jig.

–Georgina Clatworthy

Georgina Clatworthy is a full time writer who specializes inweddings.

Free-Articles-Zone.com

CEREMONY SITE (NAME) 1ST CHOICE 2ND CHOICE

Local or out-of-town

Church

Hotel

Country Club

Hall

Home

Garden or Outside

Considerations

Insects/noise

Provisions for poor weather

Facilities needed

Size (number of guests)

12 2010

Ceremony Site Options

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While the fondue pot and icecream maker seem like must-haves when you’re adding itemsto your bridal registry, it’simportant to ask yourself,“Will I really use these items ona regular basis?” You may wantto reconsider your selections.And, although making a wed-ding gift wish list can be daunt-ing, the following tips can keepthe happy couple celebratingwedded bliss for years to come.

Registry BasicsBefore you and your sweetheart startscanning items for your registry, do yourhomework. Consider the size of yourspace and where you will store your newitems. If you’re living in an apartment orsmaller condominium, you may want torethink registering for the super-deluxesize barbecue grill. You’ll be surprised howquickly your new gifts can fill up yourspace.

Next, think about your guest list. Makesure that you have a variety of items tochoose from and at different price points-- high and low -- so guests can purchaseitems they feel reflect their own taste andthat they can afford. Be sure to consideryour out-of-town guests as well, by regis-tering for items that are available both atnationwide locations and online to helpensure they can access your registriesfrom anywhere.

Kitchen and Bath RegistryIdeas and NecessitiesNow that the registry basics are covered,the fun can begin. Start with the roomsthat you live in and use the most -- thekitchen and bathroom.

Do you like to host dinner parties? Finechina should be on your list. According totheknot.com, crisp black-and-white din-nerware patterns are all the rage this sea-son. Find something that will not onlymatch your taste and decor, but also be aclassic design for years to come.

Want to skip the china, but love to cook?Register for a complete collection of high-end cookware. Stores offer cool cookinggadgets for the basic, well-stocked andgourmet kitchens alike.

In addition to registering for the main-stays in the kitchen, such as sterling silverflatware and crystal stemware, don’t for-get about everyday items like measuringcups and spoons, a kitchen scale, elec-tronic timers or even a microwave oven.

Love a spa feeling and want to re-create itin your bathroom at home? Then don’tsettle for a plain, ordinary shower experi-

ence when you can create an invigoratingone. Register for a new showerhead.

Continue to create your spa-like, roman-tic atmosphere by registering for luxurybath towels and high-thread-count sheets.Other items to consider, both extravagantand necessary, include: a down comforter,feather bed, pillows, alarm clock with dualalarms and a closet organizer.

Beyond the RegistryIf you and your significant other are look-ing for adventure instead of objects, whynot create memories instead? Family andfriends can help purchase items includingyour airfare, honeymoon suite or candlelitdinners at your vacation destination onsites such as www.honeymoonwishes.comor www.thebigday.com. Register for horse-back riding or scuba diving adventures foryou and your sweetheart to have memoriesthat will last a lifetime.

Finding Inspiration Still need help finding inspiration beforeregistering? Retailers offer planning ideasand buying guides on their Web site bycategory to help get you started.

Popular items to register for include: • Luggage• Tool kit• Bagless vacuum or steam cleaner• Patio furniture• Ultra compact digital camera

Before taking the big walk down the aisle,make sure you're prepared with necessitiesthat will last long after saying “I do.”

–ARA Content

2010

Bridal registry tips

Consider the size ofyour space andwhere you will storeyour new items.

14 2010

What type of food items do you recommend for my budget and the number of guests?________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

What type of service, sit-down dinner or buffet, would be best?____________________________________________

Discuss menu selections. What is the cost per person?____________________________________________________

Do you provide linens? Is there an additional fee?_______________________________________________________

Is there a color selection?____________________________________________________________________________

Do you supply glasses, plates and silverware? Is there an additional charge?________________________________

Do you provide food for the photographer, videographer or musicians? Is this an extra per-person charge?_______

Will you pack a to-go snack for the bride and groom?___________________________________________________

Will you pack the top tier of the wedding cake?_________________________________________________________

Do you handle all rental equipment such as tables, chairs and serving pieces?_______________________________

Would it cost less if I handle the rentals myself?_________________________________________________________

How much time will you need to set up?_______________________________________________________________

Can we go over the table locations and seating arrangements ahead of time?_______________________________

Do you handle the cleanup? Rental returns?____________________________________________________________

Will you personally handle and attend my reception? If not, what is the name of the person who will?___________

Do you make arrangements for flowers, decorations and music?___________________________________________

Do you provide the wedding cake? If not, is there a cutting fee?___________________________________________

Will you provide the groom’s cake if we want one?______________________________________________________

Do you charge extra to pour coffee?__________________________________________________________________

Do you provide the liquor?___________________________________________________________________________

What is the cost per drink?__________________________________________________________________________

Is it cheaper if we provide our own liquor?_____________________________________________________________

Do you charge a corkage fee per bottle if we provide our own wine and champagne?________________________

Do you require a guaranteed number of guests?________________________________________________________

What is the last date when I can give you a final guest count?_____________________________________________

Do you have a contract?____________________________________________________________________________

When will you provide the final per-person cost?________________________________________________________

What is the payment policy?_________________________________________________________________________

What is the deposit to hold the date?__________________________________________________________________

What is your refund or cancellation policy?____________________________________________________________

Are gratuities already figured in the total price?_________________________________________________________

If so, what percent is being charged?____________________________________________________________________

Ask the Caterer

© S

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Imagine an intimate reception in the rustic charm ofWessex Hall ... seating for 200 guests.

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A Lifetime of Memories ...a single Moment in Time ...

18

BUDGET: $ ESTIMATED COST ACTUAL COST

Announcements

Candy boxes

Enclosures:

At home card

Pew card

Reception card

Response card and envelope

Guest book

Invitations

Napkins

Place cards

Postage

Programs

Table cards

Thank-you notes

TOTAL

NOTES

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Invitations and more

2010

192010

Wedding InvitationsFor Your

Special Day!Our wedding consultants will bepleased to help youselect your invitations, stationery andthank you notes.

Cranes, Vera Wang, William Arthur,Birchcraft, Kate Spade, Embossed Graphics, Checkerboard.

All price ranges available.

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You’ve found each other, now let Two RiversCountry Club in Williamsburg, Virginia assist you

in planning the wedding of your dreams.

We invite you to join us at our Annual Bridal Showcase

on Sunday, March 14, 2010Noon-4:00 p.m.

1400 Two Rivers Rd. • Williamsburg, VA 23188Contact Jennifer Walton, (757) 258-4610

www.governorsland.com

I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.

–Song Of Solomon 6:3

20 2010

BUDGET: $ 1ST CHOICE 2ND CHOICE

Name

Address

Phone

Appointment date, Time

Photography style

Unusual

Formal

Informal

Candid

Black and white

Color

Bridal portraits

On location

Bridal studio

Equipment

Digital or film

Albums

Number of pictures

Size of pictures

Included in price or separate

Travel time

Included in price or separate

FINAL CHOICE

Photography Options

212010

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Celebrating

22 2010

A new approach to thefamily-oriented wedding

Moving their relationship from dating to mar-riage was a big step for Lynn Lehman andCliff Simonelli. One primary concern washow their respective children -- Lynn’s twoyoung sons, ages 5 and 8, plus Cliff’s threeyoungsters, ages 9 to 15 -- would come togeth-er as a family.

“Cliff and I were both divorced,” explains Lynn, a 38-year-oldmarketing manager. “Divorce turns kids’ lives upside down. Myboys didn’t verbalize anything, but I knew they were worried.That’s one reason why Cliff and I decided to do something dur-ing our wedding to communicate to all the children that we werecreating a family that would be there for them. We wanted themto know that they could trust that our marriage and our newfamily would not fall apart.”

But finding the perfect “family” wedding ceremony was not aseasy as Lynn had anticipated. She spent hours surfing the Web

23

only to find a lot of so-called blended family products with moresizzle than substance. Eventually Lynn found exactly what shehad in mind: a simple and emotionally satisfying family servicethat gives children a meaningful role in the wedding celebration.

This five-minute ceremony -- known as the Family Medallionservice -- can easily be integrated into any religious or civil wed-ding ceremony. It differs from the traditional wedding in onlyone respect, after the newlyweds exchange rings, their childrenjoin them for a special service focusing on the family nature ofa marriage. Each child is given a Family Medallion pendant (orring) with three interlocking circles, a symbol that representsfamily love.

The Wheaton, Ill. couple liked the message of the family cere-mony, which included a pledge to love and care for all the chil-dren either spouse brings to the marriage. “We were making acommitment to the children, and we wanted them to make acommitment to work through the challenges that our new fam-ily would inevitably face,” Lynn adds.

The Simonellis say they will never forget the special family serv-ice that was the highlight of their wedding. The justice of thepeace called each child forward and, while he read the words ofthe ceremony, Lynn and Cliff placed the medallions around thenecks of their children. There was a lot of hugging and tears.

“I could tell by the way the kids reacted that on some level, theyunderstood,” Lynn says. For example, Lynn’s youngest son, 5-year-old Christopher, clutched his medallion and beamed at hisstepdad Cliff. “This is cool, dude,” he said. “I love you.” Cliff,a 41-year-old salesman, had been concerned that his teenage

son and daughter might not warm to the idea of a family serv-ice. “But once we gave them the medallions, I could feel inthem a palpable sense of relief -- that they knew everything wasgoing to be OK.”

Most of the guests attending the Lehman-Simonelli weddingwere awed by the family ceremony. “We got tons of compli-ments,” says Lynn. “People told us that they had never seensuch a unique and beautiful way to recognize children.”

More than 15,000 couples annually use the Family Medallionceremony to help strengthen the bond between parents, step-parents and children. “I was very impressed with the FamilyMedallion ceremony,” says Rev. David Schaal, a Minneapolisminister. “When I recently used it during a wedding, I could seethe pride and happiness in the face the little boy who receivedthe medallion. It’s my feeling that when children are involved,it’s important to do something tangible to recognize them dur-ing the wedding.”

Lynn and Cliff believe that their decision to have a “family”wedding will strengthen their family bond for years to come.“As our kids grow older, I hope they appreciate the value offamily and what we did to assure them that they would alwaysbe an integral part of our lives,” Lynn says.

Andrew Lehman, 8, isn’t thinking much about the future. Hewears his Family Medallion every day and refers to the weddingas, “The day my mom, my stepdad and all of us kids got mar-ried. My medallion means family. That's what we are.”

–ARA Content

2010

24 2010

I bet I wouldn’t be wrong in saying that from themoment you got engaged you will have beenthinking about your wedding dress! For manybrides choosing their wedding dress overridesmany other elements of their wedding day.

Your wedding dress and all the accessories will be the mostimportant outfit you will ever buy, so it has to be perfect. Andwhilst you will pour through the bridal magazines dreaming ofall the beautiful dresses you see, when it comes down to finding‘the one’ many brides find themselves struggling to see thewood for the trees!

With so many different styles, shapes, embellishments, colorsand fabrics to choose from it is no wonder brides end up con-fused and overwhelmed. But finding your dream dress reallycomes down to making a decision based on several importantfactors:

Body ShapeIt is unlikely that you will suit every style of wedding dress outthere. We all have different body shapes so it is a question offinding the right dress style to suit your shape. The differentshapes and coordinating dress styles merit an article of theirown and is too lengthy to go into here, however, a bridal storeassistant who knows her stuff will instantly be able to direct youto the right dress style for your shape.

Wedding StyleAlthough this isn’t a factor that should influence your finalchoice, it is worth considering especially if you are having a for-mal, traditional and religious wedding. This style of weddingusually calls for very demure gowns with trains, however, like Isaid it needn’t influence your final choice.

Finding your dream dressfor your wedding

252010

Wedding DateThe time of year of your wedding will have an impact on thefabric of your wedding dress and the style. A wedding in the hotsummer months calls for a dress made in light weight fabricsand which is not too tight fitting. A wedding later in the year inthe cooler months would call for heavier weight fabrics.

Wedding LocationThis is really more important if you are having a destinationwedding or a beach wedding. You will need to be able to packyour wedding dress yourself for a destination wedding and besafe in the knowledge that you will be able to remove any creas-es once you arrive. A big skirted wedding dress with a long traincould be very difficult to wear on a beach.

ColorWe traditionally think of wedding dresses being in white orivory, however, these days there are many colors to choose from,ranging from subtle variations on white or ivory through tomore dramatic colors such as red or blue. Your color choice canreally be decided by your hair and skin tone where some shades

will suit darker tones whilst others will suit paler tones best.Again a good sales assistant will be able to guide you.

Your BuildIf you are petite then a dress with a big skirt could swamp you,whilst those who have a larger build may not be able to carry offa slim fitting gown. Choose a dress that is in proportion to yourbuild.

Finally, don’t be tempted to buy any of your accessories beforechoosing your wedding dress. Your choice of dress will dictatewhich accessories you choose as they will need to coordinatewith the look and style of your chosen gown. For instance buy-ing a bra with straps and then choosing a strapless weddingdress is obviously not going to work!

–Georgina Clatworthy

Georgina Clatworthy is a full time writer who specializes inweddings.

Free-Articles-Zone.com

26 2010

BRIDAL PARTY QUANTITYBrides BouquetThrow-away BouquetMaid/Matron of Honor BouquetBridesmaids BouquetsFlower Girl Grooms BoutonniereBest Man BoutonniereGroomsmen BoutonniereUshers BoutonniereRing Bearer BoutonniereOther

CORSAGES QUANTITYBride's Mother/Step-MotherGroom's Mother/Step-MotherBride's Grandmother(s)Groom's Grandmother(s)Godmother(s)Guest Book AttendantOther

BOUTONNIERES QUANTITYBride's Father/Step-FatherGroom's Father/Step-FatherBride's Grandfather(s)Groom's Grandfather(s)Godfather(s)Guest Book Attendant Other

CEREMONY QUANTITYAlter ArrangementsChuppahPew BowsMain Entrance ArrangementsOther

RECEPTION QUANTITYCenterpieces - Head TableCenterpieces - Guests TablesCake TableFor the Cake itselfGuestbook TableBuffet TableGift TableRest RoomsPlace Card TableGuestbook TableOther

OTHER QUANTITYFloral Wreaths for hairSingle Flowers for hairRose PetalsOther

NOTES______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Floral Quantity Checklist

272010

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Distinctive floral services for your perfect wedding.

Voted #1 Florist in Williamsburg by Virginia Gazette readersin 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009.

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ThePastorsDoves.com • (757) 876-4600

28 2010

The date is set, the dress is bought and thetuxes are rented -- now you get to plan yourfirst vacation together as husband and wife.Whether your ideal honeymoon is traveling tothe Swiss Alps for some mountain fun orrelaxing on an exotic beach in the Caribbean,it’s a special time you’ll never forget. So whatdo you need to know to plan the perfect hon-eymoon that goes off without a hitch?

Everyone wants the greatest honeymoon possible, but be sure toreview the little details so they don’t turn into big problems. Thebest thing you can do is research, plan and prepare together as ateam.

Here are some things to consider when planning the perfect hon-eymoon:

Choose a destination together.Pick a destination that you both really want to visit. Each personshould choose the top three places they would like to honeymoonand then compare lists. If you both want something relaxing, atraditional spa vacation in the tropics is a good choice. If you areadventure junkies, be sure to visit a location that offers lots of funactivities.

Prep ahead of time.Make a checklist of things you need to do before your trip.Research the laws of the country to where you will be travelingand see what rules are different. It’s a good idea to check with theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention to find out what typesof immunizations are recommended for Americans at that specif-ic destination. And remember, if you don’t have a passport orneed to renew, allow ample time for processing. If you’re changing

How to plan the perfect honeymoon

292010

your name after your wedding, make sure that the name on yourtravel documents matches what is on your passport so that youdon’t experience any delays through security and customs.

Get medical and travel assistance services.No one plans on getting sick or having other problems on theirhoneymoon, but wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind toknow that if something happens, you’re covered? That’s why it'simportant to get medical and travel assistance.

Your health insurance might not cover you while you travel, so acompany like On Call International is there to help. On Callmembers get access to a 24-hour emergency response center tofind doctors in their travel area, a 24-hour English-speakingnurse line to help identify symptoms, and coverage should a trav-eler need to return home for medical reasons.

In addition, On Call can help you with other travel woes such asa lost passport, misplaced credit card, lost baggage or the need toreschedule a delayed or cancelled flight.

Pack the right stuff.Sure you want to look great for your spouse, but sometimes look-ing chic and dressing appropriately for the location you’re visiting

might not be the same thing. Research what tourists usually wearat your chosen location. If you’re traveling internationally, differ-ent cultures might have different expectations. Also rememberthat extreme weather, hot and cold, requires different types ofclothing, so pack accordingly and you won’t have to buy some-thing at an exorbitant price when you get there.

Eat, drink and be merry.No one wants to be stuck in their hotel bathroom with a stom-achache on their honeymoon. Food and water in different coun-tries can be contaminated so do your research before celebratingat the local restaurant. When in doubt, ask your hotel conciergefor advice. If you are buying your own food, sealed products areusually safer options because they come directly from the distri-bution center.

These planning tips should help you have the honeymoon of yourdreams. If something does go wrong, remember to work throughit and enjoy the time you have together. After all, it’s one of themost important and special vacations you’ll ever take.

–ARA Content

30 2010

Travel agency_____________________________________________________________________________________

Contact person____________________________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone____________________________________________________________________________________________

Airline___________________________________________________________________________________________

Date of departure__________________________________________________________________________________

Time of departure__________________________________________________________________________________

Date of arrival_____________________________________________________________________________________

Time of arrival_____________________________________________________________________________________

Return

Date of departure__________________________________________________________________________________

Time of departure__________________________________________________________________________________

Date of arrival_____________________________________________________________________________________

Time of arrival_____________________________________________________________________________________

Car rental agency__________________________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date of pick-up____________________________________________________________________________________

Return date________________________________________________________________________________________

Insurance_________________________________________________________________________________________

Hotel___________________________________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone__________________________________________________________________________________________

Confirmation number_______________________________________________________________________________

Check-in time______________________________________________________________________________________

Check-out time_____________________________________________________________________________________

Honeymoon Information

TO R E S E R V E YO U R W E D D I N G D AT E P L E A S E C A L L 7 5 7 . 6 4 5 . 2 0 3 3

O R V I S I T C O L O N I A L H E R I TA G E C L U B . C O M

The charm of historic Williamsburg coupled with the pristine craftsmanship of the 28,000 square-foot

Clubhouse creates a setting perfect for celebrating your special day. The main ballroom of the Colonial

Heritage Club offers an inviting atmosphere for hosting up to 350 of your family and friends and the

expansive lawn provides an ideal setting for an outdoor ceremony surrounded by the lushly landscaped

championship golf course.

Our experienced team of Coordinating Specialists are available to plan every detail from menu

customization to theme and décor conception so that your special event will reflect all the care and

attention that your day deserves.

Timeless Beauty & Classic Elegance

6500 Ar thur Hills Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23188 757.645.2000

The Perfect Place for your Special Day• 15,000 sq ft. luxury

clubhouseoverlookinga pond

• Features anelegantballroom, a catering kitchen,game and activity rooms, andoutdoor pool area

• Indoor and outdoor weddingand reception areas available

• Covered porte-cochere forvalet parking or drop-off

• Outside caterers are welcome

The Settlement at Powhatan Creek4101 Monticello Avenue

Williamsburg,Virginia 23188757-645-3000

Visit us on the web at www.thesettlement.net

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The Settlement at Powhatan Creek...