Whipped Cream Frosting

I was told by a baker that "whipped cream icing" would not stand up in July here in Virginia. My reception is going to be in an indoor location that has AC. Is there any validity to what we where told. I don't like really rich (sweet) frosting.

We are in MN and in July it is very hot and humid (can be 90's to 100 degrees). I checked with a number of bakers that do wedding cakes and they all said whipped cream icing would be fine in an air conditioned reception site. They said they all would use whipped cream in July with no problem, including transporting it. I guess the only issue could be how far your cake would have to travel between the baker and the site. It may be a problem if the cake is outside in the heat for a long period of time.

The Wedding Cake

THE WEDDING CAKE

The wedding cake is as important as the bridal veil, gown, rings, etc. It may be as artistic – and sometimes as fantastic – as a designer's dream. It is usually decorated with intricate designs. The cake is sometimes placed as a centerpiece on the bridal table if there is one; if not, the cake sits on its own table so that it may be admired by everyone; or it may also form the centerpiece for a buffet table.

Wedding cakes may be square, oblong, or heart-shaped, but are usually a series of round tiers, sometimes separated by columns. The icing is usually white, but the cake can be frosted with a pastel icing to match the color scheme of your wedding. Usually an ornament, or fresh flowers, finishes off the top layer; or what is known as a "cake top." Many couples top their cake with a fun bride/groom, heart, or other topper, which becomes a keepsake remembrance of the wedding. The cake itself is made of a white pound cake or a yellow sponge cake – or you may want to be creative and have each layer be a different flavor. But try to stick to the basics.

UNIQUE CAKE TOPS  Family Stylized Heart Cake Topper   Bride "Reaching for Her Star" Figurine   Beach Bride and Groom Cake Topper   Rhinestone Letter Cake Topper   "Super Sexy Spy" Wedding Bride and Groom Figurine   Porcelain Interracial Bride and Groom Cake Top Wedding

The less familiar groom's cake is a dark, rich fruitcake, frequently iced to match and used as the top layer of the bride's cake. Traditionally, this cake is saved for the first anniversary of the couple. Because tradition has it that a piece of the bride's cake under a single woman's pillow will lead her to dream of her future husband, it's customary to cut the cake and serve it at the reception, with extra slices provided for guests to take home. Napkins or tiny boxes are supplied to those who wish to take pieces of cake home with them. If you won't be having a groom's cake, freeze the top layer of the bride's cake to share on your first anniversary.

In some traditions, the dark fruitcake is the main wedding cake (English). The pieces are all pre-cut with perhaps an almond on top, wrapped in cellophane and topped with a bow for guests to take home if they choose. An artificial cake is then sometimes used for the photographs.

Ordering the Cake

If you need ideas of what kind of cake you would like, why not ask some of your friends who were recently married, or look through photo albums at your local bakeries or caterers. Before you order, it is wise to taste a sample of their baking. Keep in mind that, generally speaking, not much cake is actually eaten. You don't want to have a lot left over and wasted. It is suggested that you order a cake that 'looks' big, but really isn't

It is also a good idea to make a check list of points to go over:

• Discuss number of guests.
• Shape and size of cake
• Batter (flavor)
• Filling
• Icing (colors)
• Designs
• Ornaments (cake top)
• Total price
• Deposit
• Time and date of delivery (if they deliver)

If you are thinking of making your own cake, keep in mind that the time right before your big day is the most hectic. Before you go ahead, check the cost of ingredients against the price of a professionally prepared cake. Then experiment with your recipe way ahead of time, and make the real thing at least two days before you decorate it; it's easier to ice when it's not too fresh.

Cutting the Cake

The wedding cake should be cut just before dessert at a luncheon or dinner reception, just after the guests have been received at a tea or cocktail reception. Your groom places his right hand over yours and together you cut into the bottom layer with a ribbon-tied silver knife. The bride and groom traditionally share the first slice as a symbol of their willingness to share each other's household from then on.

It is a loving gesture for the bride to give her new in-laws their pieces after that, then the groom to service his. The rest of the cake is then cut by a friend, designated in advance, or by a member of the caterer's staff, and served to the guests.

Use a thin, sharp or serrated knife. Insert knife into cake, keeping point down, and handle up. Slice, pulling knife toward you. If frosting sticks, dip knife in hot water or wipe with damp paper towel after cutting each slice.

Round Tiered Cake

Cut vertically through bottom layer at edge of second layer as indicated by dotted line 1; then cut into wedges as indicated by dotted line 2.

Follow same procedure with middle layer by cutting vertically through second layer at edge of top layer as indicated by dotted line 3; then cut into wedges as indicated by dotted line 4.

Return to bottom layer and cut along dotted line 5; cut into wedges as indicated by dotted line 6.

Separate remaining layers (traditionally, the top layer is frozen for the couple's first anniversary); cut into desired sizes.

5. Round layers can be cut into wedges, diamonds or slices.

 

Square Tiered Cake

The cutting procedure for square tiered cake is essentially the same as for a round tiered cake.

Cut bottom layer all around; then cut middle layer. Return to bottom layer and continue as directed (above).

When to Buy Dress?

When should I start looking/purchasing a dress?

It will probably take you a month or so to find the dress you want and then it can take 4-6 months once you order it for it to be delivered. Then it will take time to alter it (they all need alterations) and you want to allow some slack in here just in case... So, I would suggest starting to look for a dress as soon as possible. Think about the size of the dress and if you are going to lose/gain weight before the wedding. Buy the closest size to what you will be at the time of your wedding. Look in the Advice section in EZWeddingPlanner (top menu bar) and check out Bridal Attire for lots of good info about dresses.

Weddings on a Small Budget

WEDDINGS ON A SMALL BUDGET

You do not have to spend an exorbitant amount of money to have a lovely wedding. Know in advance what you intend to spend on your wedding and stick to it. There is no reason to go into huge debt to have a nice wedding. Remember that you will be just as married if you spend $1,000 than if you spend $30,000. Here are a few tips on cost-cutting.

The Elopement

The ultimate in simplicity. Just go get married and forget the elaborate planning and disagreements that can occur in larger weddings. You could simply do it locally, or consider combining it with your honeymoon and have a destination wedding, like a tropical beach or a cruise. If you like, you can invite immediate family, maid of honor and best man (and their spouse/guest) to go along for the wedding. Make it a long weekend or stay for weeks and enjoy! There are many travel agents who specialize in weddings and can give you great advice as to the details. You will save lots of money if you do this off-season (Summer is off-season in the Caribbean or Hawaii and Winter is off-season in Europe). Many hotels offer honeymoon packages, so check with a number of travel agents and compare. This can be a cost-effective and very romantic and memorable wedding experience. Then you can decide later if you want a reception for other friends and relatives after the fact (which isn't a necessity).

The Bride's Attire

One way to save tons of money is to find a nice, off-the-shelf dress in a department store. If you aren't going for the big white wedding, this is a reasonable alternative. Nothing says you must have a traditional wedding. Or if you have access to one, wear an heirloom dress of your mother or grandmother's. With a bit of alteration, this can be a memorable, sentimental wedding dress.

But, if you want the story-book, white gown, you still do not have to spend a fortune. Start at the sale racks in a bridal shop. Discontinued styles or overstocks can save bundles. Also consider buying a sample dress (if you are the right size). You would probably want to dry-clean it before the wedding. Consider less expensive fabrics (like polyester blend vs. 100% silk), and generally the less ornate and beaded the dress, the less the cost. If you order a dress, order it with plenty of time for delivery and alterations, so you don't need to pay rush charges. See Bridal Attire for lots of details on wedding dresses, etc.

Another option is to have your dress sewn for you. Be sure you have a seamstress who you trust and has done wedding dresses before. Check references with other brides and see if they were happy with the work. Consignment stores are an option, but carefully check the dress and compare the prices to new dresses, as sometimes they can even be more costly. Check ads from brides who have called off their weddings. Bargains can be had for the wise consumer.

A great option to save money is to make your own headpiece and veil. Look through bridal magazines and check out the bridal store veils and then go to your local fabric store. You can buy inexpensive, ready made bridal headpieces and lots of veil material. With very little work, you can easily save $100 or more on the veil. Make your own headpiece from scratch and save even more. Consider your hair style first and then choose a headpiece. Match it to your dress and overall look desired.

When it comes to shoes, you can wear a pair of white shoes you already have. It will probably be hidden by the dress and it will certainly be more comfortable than trying to break in new shoes on this important day. Or, ballet slippers are inexpensive and would look and feel fine.

The Groom's Attire

Talk about money-saving. Wow! There is nothing wrong with simply wearing a dark suit you already own. The same goes for the groomsmen. There is no law that says you must rent a tux. Add a boutonniere and your outfit is complete. But if you want to go the tux route, some tips include sticking with the standard black rental tuxedo, which is inexpensive and classic looking. Avoid wedding dates close to prom time, as tuxedos are in high demand then. See Grooms Guide for lots of details on renting groom and groomsmen formalwear.

The Bridal Party

The larger the bridal party, the greater the cost. Consider that you will also invite the spouse or guest of each bridal party member, so if you have five each bridesmaids and groomsmen, you are now up to 20 people to seat and feed at your reception. This requires tables and centerpieces and maybe extra decorations for the bridal table(s). You also pay for bouquets and boutonnieres for each, thank you presents for 10 people, perhaps more transportation (limo) from wedding to reception site, and maybe extra money to help cash-strapped bridesmaids pay for their expensive clothing. In addition, the more bridesmaids you have, the greater the stress and hassle you will have. For every bridesmaid you add, the disagreement factor rises dramatically. One or two attendants will save you money and stress. One cost saver for dresses is to check out good department stores. They have a wide variety of dresses off-the-shelf that might make you and your bridesmaids happy. Or, order then through a catalog for great savings. For information on who does what, see Wedding Party and Their Duties.

The Wedding Date

Schedule your date at least three weeks before or after any holiday. These are the busiest times of the year for most vendors, including churches, hotels, restaurants, florists, bands, DJs, etc. Not only will you pay a premium, but service and quality may suffer during holidays. It's also a good idea to schedule around sports events or other major events in your town. Besides saving you money, it will be easier for your guests to travel to your sites when the traffic is calmer. Saturdays almost always command a higher price than other weekend days and certainly more than weekdays. Also busy wedding months will cost you more than if you get married in an off-month. The biggest wedding months are September/October and June/July. You can save big bucks if you get married in, for example, April or November. But, consider the weather in your area. Spring or Fall usually works better than Winter. Negotiate with your vendors for better pricing for your date.

The Guest List

The more people you invite to your wedding and reception, the greater the cost. The smaller the guest list, the more you save on invitations, food, liquor, centerpieces, musicians, wedding favors , thank you cards, room/site rental and perhaps parking vouchers, coat check fees, and a host of other little extras. With less people, an outdoor wedding/reception will also save on rental fees for tables, chairs, tents, etc. The less people you have, the more you can spend on each guests. Upgraded the food and liquor and perhaps other extras you might forgo with lots of guests, like ice sculptures and other decorations, due to budget constraints. And the less people, the less time it takes to feed them. You can cut down on the time needed to rent the room and musicians, etc. Four hour receptions can be much cheaper than five or more hours. Plus, a more intimate crowd allows the bride and groom to more easily mingle with their guests. One hundred or less guests makes for an intimate and cost-effective wedding. If you have a very small guest list, consider a reception in your home after the ceremony. You can track all your guests in the EZWeddingPlanner People section.

The Site

If your home or that of a friend or relative is large enough to accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite, you can save a ton of money. Do any home renovations and major landscaping far in advance of the wedding. You can rent trellises, archways, gazebos, etc. if you don't already have them and decorate them with flowers, or have the ceremony inside by a fireplace, or other pretty location with lots of room for guests. Consider inviting the neighbors, since there will be increased noise and congestion. Send a map with the invitations if you think guests will have a hard time finding the site. Mark the outside with balloons or signs. See below for more outdoor suggestions and catering/food ideas.

If you have a small wedding, a backyard barbecue or picnic in the park or beach is great. It is intimate and relaxed and is easy for the bride and groom to mingle with their guests. For larger guest lists, consider hiring a caterer who can also deal with tents, tables, etc. But check out their prices vs. those of a hotel or other facility to be sure you are indeed saving money here. You can also consider a public park or beach, but make contingency plans for bad weather. Check out places like Elks, American Legion and other clubs. They can be decorated wonderfully and you can have both the ceremony and reception in one place which will also save money. Unfortunately, some churches have instituted very high fees for their facilities/services, so you may want to check out several before choosing. On the other hand, some are very reasonable and if they have a large basement or fellowship room, you can save lots of money by having your reception there. Officiants also come in different price ranges, so shop around. You also do not need excessive decorations. If you book a banquet room from a hotel, often times this includes the draped tables and centerpieces and many other extras. You can probably negotiate many extras too. See reception for lots of details. Remember, off peak dates and days of the week and times of day will save you a bundle.

There are many locations that specifically cater to outdoor weddings and will be able to coordinate all the details. If you are planning it yourself, here's some things to think about. Back up tents or other cover are a good idea, in case of rain or blazing sun that will melt not only your cake, but also your guests. Tents should be set up several days prior to the event to ensure dry ground underneath. Have an adequate number of chairs for both the wedding and reception. If the reception will go into the evening, you will want lights and perhaps heaters, depending on weather. If insects are a problem in your area, consider pre-spraying with insecticide or lighting punk sticks or citronella candles. If you want dancing, you may want to rent a portable dance floor. Also remember to consider the needs of any of your guests who may have special handicap or accessibility needs. Parking and rest room facilities should also be adequate for the number of guests you are planning.

The Food and Drink

Simple appetizers set on a table will cost less than passed hors d'oeuvres, because you don't need extra people to walk around serving them. Or, do away with the appetizers altogether and shorten the cocktail hour to one-half hour. This will not only save on food bills but also liquor bills. Look into buffet vs. sit down meals. They may be less expensive. Also selecting chicken instead of beef, etc. can considerably reduce the meal bill. One great way to cut down on food costs is to time the wedding (like early afternoon) so that you can just serve drinks and appetizers or cake and champagne or finger sandwiches, etc. after the service. People will drink less and not expect a large meal. If you serve wine, beer, and soft drinks, your bar bill will be considerably less than including other liquors. And if you stop serving alcohol an hour before closing and serve coffee and water, you will not only save money but have less inebriated guests. See Low Cost Ideas for catering info. Also Do It Yourself catering ideas.

The Cake

First off, don't let your caterer talk you into serving other desserts also. The wedding cake is the dessert, so save your money on the others. Negotiate to get rid of cake-cutting fees (get this in writing). Consider a small decorated cake for you to cut at the reception and then a sheet cake of the same flavor cut in the kitchen to serve the guests. If you have a talented friend or relative who makes wedding cakes, this would be a great wedding gift from them to you. Many home-made cakes are better tasting and as beautifully decorated as cakes from a bakery. See Cake Ordering and Cutting for lots of cake details.

There are some books that say don't buy a supermarket wedding cake. However, when one of our daughters was married, three people taste-tested numerous specialty wedding cake bakeries against the supermarket cake and were much happier with the later. It tasted better, looked beautiful, was less expensive, and they made a new first anniversary cake for free as part of the package. And as a bonus, the guests loved it and some still talk about the great cake. So, check out your local supermarket bakery as a viable source and do your own taste-test.

The Flowers

Using in-season flowers and/or those locally grown instead of exotic flowers will save you money. As mentioned earlier, the smaller the bridal party, the less bouquets you need to buy. Talk with your florist on budget cutting methods that will still be beautiful, but less expensive. For instance, there are many varieties of roses, some very expensive while others are very reasonable. Using a few, larger flowers even though they may be expensive, may be an overall economical choice - like Calla lilies. See the in-depth discussion on flowers for more details. As far as the reception site is concerned, you can decorate it without using flowers. Mirrors and candles are great and many reception sites will provide decorations as part of the room rental. One trick you could also use is to use the bridal bouquets as table decorations for the bridal table(s). They could be placed in vases or simply laid on the tables. Also, if you have purchased flower arrangements to decorate the ceremony, take those along and use them again at the reception site. You could also use flowering plants on the tables as centerpieces or a single flower in a bud vase.

The Transportation

If you are budget-challenged, simply skip the limo. A nice car will do just as well. Full-size cars are desirable (to fit the large dresses) and if you don't have one or know someone who does, you can inexpensively rent one or more for the wedding day. This will be less expensive than renting a limo for a few hours. But if you do go with a limo, generally black is less expensive than white. If you have a large bridal party, consider one larger limo versus several smaller ones. Many companies offer wedding packages that add goodies like signs, decorations and champagne. Ask for the car without the extras and save your money.

The Printed Materials

If you have less than 50 guests, skip the formal invitations and send hand-written notes or telephone (if local). If you go the printing route, be sure they are light enough to be sent with the least amount of postage. Going over 1 ounce will increase your costs. Tips on lightening the mailing and saving money include: skip the tissue paper, use small postcards as the reply cards (also saving you return postage), print reception info at the bottom of the invitation avoiding separate reception cards. You could also print RSVP info at the bottom of the invitation and skip the return cards altogether. If you have a computer, you could design and print your own invitations. There are some very nice paper stock and envelopes to be found in stores or on-line. One helpful Internet site is InvitationsEtc. which has lot of information on doing your own inviations/programs etc. You can also do your own wedding programs. They can be easily designed and printed at home. See ceremony programs for more detail. If ordering invitations, programs and other printed materials, consider ordering on-line or through catalogs for bargains. Thermography is less expensive than engraving on printed matter. The paper stock also varies in price and you could save money here.

The Decorations and Favors

Decorations can be simple, yet look nice. Depending on your locations and number of guests, you can make your own, rent them, or often they are included in reception site packages. First, ask the reception site what decorations they can provide for free. This also goes for the ceremony site - often Churches have candelabras and candles, etc. that they will let you use (or rent for a small fee). They may also have pew bows or at least pew bow holders. Go to your local craft store and buy ribbon in bulk to make your own bows. Ribbon with a wire edge will hold the bow look and stand up better. If you have a dull looking reception room, consider renting inexpensive trees and decorating them with twinkle lights - particularly for late afternoon or evening affairs. You can decorate with plants bought at a local nursery, garden store, outlet or retail store. Small potted plants make nice table decorations and guests can take them home as souvenirs/favors. If you have a southwestern theme, consider small cacti. Christmas time weddings could give ornaments engraved with the year. Easter time you could use jelly beans or decorated eggs. Mirrors and candles also make great table decorations. You can use tall candles or votive. Check out local craft stores (like Michaels) for ideas on decorating supplies (ribbons, baskets, tulle, candle holders - 3 to 4 per table, wedding supplies, etc.) You may also see some great ideas there for making your own favors. They can be as simple as nuts and/or candy on each table to something more elegant like personalized mints or chocolates. Small picture frames (with their place cards or a picture of the two of you) make nice favors. Fabric or silk flowers tied with ribbons inscribed with your name and wedding date make colorful favors as well as table decorations. Seedling packets or tree saplings for planting are unique and represent the growth of your marriage. For very inexpensive favors, consider poetry or a thank you note printed on paper and folded into fan shapes (accordion-pleated) which can also be decorated with ribbon. Or rolled scroll-like and tied with a ribbon. For the gamblers at heart, how about lottery tickets. Small, heart shaped refrigerator magnets make nice favors (again, check out craft stores). And, there are many vendors online who sell fun favors inexpensively. See the Sponsors section for some favor ideas.

Other Cost Savers

Make your own tapes for reception music and/or use a multi-disc CD player with your favorite CDs. A DJ will cost less than a live band. Have a friend or relative sing a solo at your ceremony as their gift to you. If you are cash strapped, skip the favors at each table. Post seating arrangements on an easel instead of individual placecards, or have open seating. Skip the goodies like ice sculptures, personalized napkins and matches, balloon hearts, chair covers, ceiling decorations, bubble blowers and rice or bird seed packets, bird releases, etc.

Budget Average Costs

What is an average budget on weddings?

It's hard to say an average cost, because some of our brides have $1000 weddings and some have $35,000 weddings or more and everything in between. One of our brides spent over $150,000 on her wedding. It depends on the number of guests you have, the location, and how elaborate you want it. Some brides spend 3 to 4 thousand on their dress alone, while others spend $500 or less. Also different parts of the country cost more or less for the same size function. With 100 to 150 guests you can probably figure somewhere in the $10,000 to $20,000 range for a sit-down meal reception. We recommend that you first figure out how much you have to spend and then fit the wedding around the budget. We do not recommend going into debt or your parents going into debt to host a party that will last one day. You can have a beautiful wedding on a small, realistic budget.

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Bridesmaid Party

What is the bridesmaid's party? Is it the bridal shower or a special party for the bridesmaids?

A bridesmaid's party is a get-together to thank the members of your wedding party. You can give your attendants their thank-you gifts and go over the wedding schedule. It can be anything from an informal luncheon to an up-scale dinner party and anything in between, like breakfast, desserts or crackers/cheese at your place. If some attendants are traveling from out of town, you can even do this the morning or afternoon of the wedding or the day before. If they all live around you, it's probably more relaxed to do it a few days or a week before the wedding. Another possibility is to give them gifts before the rehearsal or at the rehearsal dinner, although this is less intimate because there are generally more people present. And there is less time to just chit-chat with only your bridesmaids. Bridal Showers are for you to receive presents and the focus is on you. They are probably not the place to give your attendants their special thank you gifts.

Where to Find Bra?

I was wondering if anyone could help me? I am having a really hard time finding the right bra to wear with my wedding dress. I need a long line bra. My wedding dress has a diamond opening in the back and if I was to wear a regular bra the clasps would show. I can not find one that has enough support and is low enough for the dress. HELP!! P.S. It can have straps it does not have to be strapless.

Several places to try: David's Bridal (they are nationwide) said they have a one piece panty/bra combined that has lots of support but has a low waist in back. It is strapless and comes in sizes 32 to 42.

Another suggestion (from a very large breasted friend of ours) is to go to a high end (good quality) department store and check with the lingerie dept. They should have bra specialists. They can measure you and if they don't have what you need in stock they can special order it (special made or from their catalog of bras). She said she has her bras special made because she needs lots of support and had the same problem as you.

Large Budget

We have a budget of approx. $30,000 to $35,000 please help me figure out exactly how this money should be spent!

Wander around the proposed budget in EZWeddingPlanner and see where you might improve things. You need to decide which items are really important to you and allocate the money accordingly. For some brides it is the dress and flowers, others want to have a wonderful reception location and sit down meal. It also depends on how many guests you invite - the more guests, the higher the cost. If you can't figure out how to spend it all on the wedding and/or a larger reception, how about more for honeymoon and/or new house expenses?

Best Man Duties

I am a first time "Best Man" and I really don't know what my responsibilities include. I'm looking for advice & suggestions.

 Some duties can include:

• Organizing bachelor party (or dinner, which is optional).
• Paying for your own wedding attire.
• Helping groom dress for the ceremony.
• Making sure the groom, groomsmen and ushers are at the ceremony on time & dressed properly.
• Driving groom to ceremony if need be.
• Presenting envelopes (from the groom) with fees/tips for people like the officiant (just before or after ceremony).
• Carrying the brides' ring down the isle and handing it to the officiant.
• Signing the marriage license, along with the maid of honor, as a legal witness.
• Giving the first toast to the couple at the reception and reading aloud any congratulatory telegrams.
• Dancing with the bride after the groom and fathers have danced with her.
• Driving the couple to the airport or hotel if they need a ride on the way to their honeymoon.
• Taking care of any tickets, keys, etc. the groom may need later.
• Organizing the return of all rented formal wear.

Bachelor Party

At the bachelor party, does everyone bring gifts for the groom.

No, everyone does not have to bring gifts for the groom. In fact, sometimes the groom gives his gifts to his wedding party at his bachelor party, although this can also be done at the rehearsal dinner. A bachelor party is a get together of his close male friends and relatives and can be anything from a softball game and a keg of beer, a camping trip, a night out at the casino or racetrack, etc. to a co-ed party including spouses and girlfriends. It doesn't have to be a burlesque show and get the groom drunk party.

The attendees of a bachelor party can be the groom's attendants, school and current friends invited to the wedding, brothers and close cousins. The groom's father and the bride's father and brothers may also be included if you want.

Bachelor Party Resources  The Playboy Guide to Bachelor Parties: Everything You Need to Know About Planning the Groom's Rite of Passage-From Simple to Sinful   Bachelor Party Confidential: A Real-Life Peek Behind the Closed-Door Tradition   The Bachelor's Boot Camp

Who Pays

I have a bridesmaid who's mother assumes that I am paying for her dress and her son's (2) tuxedo's for my wedding, I don't have that kind of money, is it alright for me to tell her to pay for her own items?

 It is customary for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to pay for their own attire, although a bride/groom may volunteer to help with expenses if they are able. If it is too great an expense for the people you have asked to be in your wedding, and you are also unable to help with the cost, allow them to graciously decline and select someone else. Or, if this isn't an option, consider less expensive bridesmaids' dresses (off the shelf dresses) and/or suits (which they probably already own) vs. tuxedos for the groomsmen. It is not essential that all attendants dress alike and a variety of colors can make for an interesting and beautiful wedding. If you are planning to give the bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts as thank you's, you may consider putting that money towards the wedding attire and/or giving less expensive gifts.

Some Fun Books  You Can Wear It Again: A Celebration of Bridesmaids' Dresses   101 Uses for a Bridesmaid Dress   The Bridesmaid Guide: Etiquette, Parties and Being Fabulous   I Need To Do What?! A Wedding Guide for the Groom, Best Man, & Ushers

Wedding Announcements

Wedding Announcements

Wedding Invitations
Newspaper Announcements

Announcements are generally sent to people who were not invited to the wedding, but who you want to notify of your marriage. These can include business associates, geographically distant family and friends, neighborhood or church acquaintances, holiday-card lists, etc. They are generally not sent to anyone who received an invitation. Announcements can be ordered at the same time as invitations and are similar in look. They should be addressed and ready to mail directly after the wedding. Parents or honor attendants can mail them, if the bride and groom leave immediately for the honeymoon. Remember, neither the invitations nor the announcements obligate the recipient to send a gift.

You can enclose a name card with your announcements to tell your friends and colleagues of your preference. Michelle Lynn Davis will be changing her name to Michelle Lynn Carter following her marriage September 25, 2000. Or, substitute your maiden name for middle name: Michelle Lynn Davis will be changing her name to Michelle Davis Carter following... Or, The bride will retain the name Michelle Lynn Davis after her marriage.

Announcements must always have a year line, and time of ceremony is never mentioned. It is optional to mention the ceremony site.	Mr. and Mrs. Philip Paul Johnson have the honour of announcing the marriage of their daughter Susan Anne to Mr. Mark Robert Nelson on Saturday, the fifth of June Nineteen hundred and ninety-nine First Lutheran Church Minneapolis, Minnesota
OR	Mr. and Mrs. Philip Paul Johnson have the honour to announce the marriage of their daughter etc.
OR	Mr. and Mrs. Philip Paul Johnson announce the marriage of their daughter etc.
When parents are divorced wording may vary as in invitations	Mary Anderson Davis and Mark Henry Davis have the honour of announcing the marriage of their daughter etc.
When parents announce marriage of young divorcee (Note that bridegroom's parents can also be included)	Mr. and Mrs. Philip Paul Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Roger Albert Nelson announce the marriage of Susan Anne Johnson and Mr. Mark Robert Nelson on Saturday, the fifth of June Nineteen hundred and ninety-nine First Lutheran Church Minneapolis, MN
Divorcee and her new husband announce their marriage	Susan Johnson Spensor and Mark Robert Nelson announce their marriage on Saturday, the fifth of June Nineteen hundred and ninety-nine First Lutheran Church Minneapolis, MN
Announcement For Mature Widow	Mrs. Carol Martin and Mr. John S. Smith have the pleasure of announcing their marriage

Recommended Announcement Resources  4 1/8 x 6 1/8 Invitation Envelope - 24# White (4 x 6 Photo Invitation) (100)   Crane's Wedding Blue Book: The Styles and Etiquette of Announcements, Invitations and Other Correspondences   Wedding Invitations, Announcements, Place Cards, and More   The Art and Craft of Keepsake Photography: Engagements & Weddings: How to Take Perfect Photos and Make Perfect Invitations, Announcements, Albums, Thank ... More/a>

50th Anniversary

This is my friend's 50th wedding anniversary and I need help in designing the program.

The 50th is the Gold anniversary, so the program could be printed on gold paper or using gold ink or tied with gold ribbon, etc. You could check out our Plan/Great Ideas section for program suggestions, to see if any of this applies to what you are doing.

Make the couple's honeymoon destination your theme. For example, if they went to Hawaii, decorate with flower garlands, serve tropical drinks, play Don Ho CDs, and roast a pig. If they went to Paris, hang travel posters, play Edith Piaf CDs, and serve French food (click for recipes). Don't forget to include framed pictures from their honeymoon album (you might also want to copy one for the front of the party invitations). If the couple didn't have a honeymoon, why not send them on one? (The party decor can serve as a gentle hint for the gift presentation at the end of the evening.) Other gift ideas include: a video made from old home movies, a collage of photos from the last 50 years, or even a special anniversary greeting from the president of the United States! (Just write to the White House, Greetings Office, Room 39, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington D.C. 20500-1600 and allow four to six weeks for delivery.)

Recommended 50th Anniversary Resources  50th Anniversary Guest Book - Golden Wedding Celebration Gift   "The One I Love" Touching 8x10 Poem, Double-matted In Dark Green/Burgundy, And Enhanced With Watercolor Graphics.   1960 What a Year It Was Book - Nostalgic 50th Birthday or 50th Wedding Anniversary Gift   1960 Time Passages Yearbook - Commemorative 50th Wedding Anniversary or 50th Birthday Gift

Anniversary Names

Anniversary Names

Anniversary	Traditional	Modern
First	Paper or Plastics	Clocks
Second	Cotton or Calico	China
Third	Leather	Crystal, Glass
Fourth	Silk	Electrical Appliances
Fifth	Wood	Silverware
Sixth	Iron	Wood
Seventh	Copper or Wool	Desk Sets
Eighth	Electrical Appliances	Linens, Laces
Ninth	Pottery	Leather
Tenth	Tin, Aluminum	Diamond Jewelry
Eleventh	Steel	Fashion Jewelry
Twelfth	Linen	Pearls
Thirteenth	Lace	Textiles, Furs
Fourteenth	Ivory	Gold Jewelry
Fifteenth	Crystal, Glass	Watches
Twentieth	China	Platinum
Twenty-fifth	Silver	Silver
Thirtieth	Pearl	Diamond
Thirty-fifth	Coral, Jade	Jade
Fortieth	Ruby	Ruby
Forty-fifth	Sapphire	Sapphire
Fiftieth	Gold	Gold
Fifty-fifth	Emerald	Emerald
Sixtieth	Diamond	Diamond

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

The Nameday Book: A Book of Saints, Names, Anniversaries and Celebrations

Our Wedding Anniversary Memory Book

Wedding Blessings: Prayers and Poems Celebrating Love, Marriage and Anniversaries

Our Wedding Anniversary Journal

Wedding Anniversary Memories

Wedding Anniversaries: From Paper to Diamond

Alcohol

What would be the normal amount of alcohol to get if you were going to buy the alcohol for your reception of 300 people for beer and mixed drinks and champagne for the toast?

There are a lot of variables... the ages of your guests, the time of day of the reception and how long it will go, inside or outside reception, etc. Also, do you think more of your guests are beer drinkers or wine drinkers or mixed drink people. This will determine somewhat the variety of what you buy. Some people may also specify certain brands of liquor that they prefer and soda water, tonic water, etc. And many people will not drink alcohol at all, so you would also want pop, water, or punch, etc. for those guests.

Your best bet would be to ask the liquor store (where you will be purchasing the alcohol from) these questions. They know how many cups a keg of beer holds (you can get different sizes). You might be able to figure out a bottle of booze by dividing 1 1/2 to 2 oz. of liquor in the total oz. size of the bottle. 60 oz of Windsor = 30 to 40 drinks, a bottle of wine = 4 - 6 glasses, etc. You could figure 1-2 drinks per hour per drinking guest. Also check if you can return any unopened bottles or kegs for your money back.

For the champagne toast, you can probably get 7-8 glasses per bottle (depending again on the size of the bottle). So you need to figure out how many people will get champagne glasses (children probably won't). Also you may want some non-alcoholic for those who do not/cannot drink alcohol.

Or, if you are having the food catered, they may have good guestimates. You may consider hiring several bartenders for 300 guests, in which case they will probably know the mix that is appropriate.

$5,000 or Less

I want to have a cost effective wedding reception, but still include a buffet dinner and provide beer and wine. Am I being realistic to want to keep the cost to $5000 or less?

It depends on where your reception is held, how many people you are inviting, and what food you are serving, etc. Many locations will cost more than others and the more people, obviously the greater the cost. Given all that, I think you should be able to do what you want for $5,000 or less.

Some brides have family or friends make the food, buy their own beer and wine, and have the reception at someone's home or at a local park. Check on permits if you want liquor in a park. This greatly reduces the cost. I've even seen the wedding ceremony done in a park pavilion with the reception in the park following.

Some Books That Might Help  Bridal Bargains, 9th Edition: Secrets to Throwing a Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget   How to Have a Big Wedding on a Small Budget   Intimate Weddings: Planning a Small Wedding that Fits Your Budget and Style   The Green Bride Guide: How to Create an Earth-Friendly Wedding on Any Budget

Tip Included

The Limo and the Caterer include tax and gratuity, does this mean I'm supposed to re-tip them on my Wedding Day?

If gratuity is included in what you are already paying, there is no need to tip again. Check with the Caterer to see who is included in the tip to them (be sure bartenders, waiters, etc. are included). See Tipping for more info.

Plan Timetable

Can my plan timetable be adjusted and uncluttered?

 When you sign up on EZWeddingPlanner your plan will automatically adjust for your wedding date. Plan is based on the closest of three schedules, 18 months out, a year out and six months out. And, you can change specific dates for plan items. Go to Plan and click on any event. Here you can also delete any items you do not want on your plan. And to help clear the screen of things you no longer need to see, when you complete an item, check it off as done. Then, check "no" for Display done descriptions and click Do It. Then only the items left to be done will display.

Time of Marriage

Is it bad luck to get married on the top of the hour like 3 pm? I heard you were supposed to get married on the half hour like 3:30 pm?

Interesting question. I have not heard of any thing like this before. It turns out, though, that the time of marriage is when you are pronounced man and wife. And for that to happen exactly on a half hour would be very unusual.

Thank You Notes

If you receive gifts before the wedding is it ok to send thank yous at that time, or should you wait until after the ceremony (and then thank them for attending etc.)?

Yes, you can certainly send thank you notes for gifts received before the wedding as you receive them. You should send them no later than 2 weeks after receiving gifts before the wedding date. Since you will probably verbally thank everyone for coming at the reception, you need not send them another thank you note after the wedding. One thank you note per gift is enough. Gifts received at the wedding should get thank you notes within a month of your honeymoon return and within a month if it is received afterwards.

Steamboat, Colorado

Any suggestions for an outdoor wedding in Steamboat Colorado in August?

Try looking at these sites. Perhaps you could get ideas of dates to schedule near or around and other activities going on. These sites also list hotels, vendors, parks, etc.

SteamboatColorado.com

SteamboatSprings.AreaGuides.net

Ci.Steamboat.Co.us/Recreation/Parks.htm

Ci.Steamboat.Co.us/Recreation/Yrbgardn.htm#YampaRiver Gardens - available for weddings

Stability

I really like your website and would like to use it for planning my wedding. However, with the DOTCOM financial problems, what assurance can you provide that this service is here to stay?

While I guess noone can guarantee everything, we've (Hopkins Technology, LLC) been in business since 1986 and certainly plan to be around for many more years. We created EZWeddingPlanner in 1999 (when we married off 3 of our children in 13 months) and it has been growing ever since with hundreds of thousands of couples planning their weddings with it. We've been expanding it as brides request additions and it's the best place on Internet to do the detail work that you actually have to do to plan your wedding. While some sites focus more on directories of resources and bridal registry sell-you-stuff, EZWeddingPlanner is big on functionality. And, we also have local and national Sponsors (who support the program).

Hope this helps. Have fun planning your wedding!

Small Items

I am writing to find out if the site has info on the small things that might be in a list form on your site like the ring pillow, guest book suggestions, or stores in general that provide wedding supplies even like the memoirs given out at the wedding. Please let me know what sites there may be available from your site.

 We have a few sites that provide services like this. EZWeddingPlanner members can find them in our Resources section.

Also, you can go to Wedding Accessories which has many items from which to choose.

EZ Wedding Planner is continually adding more vendors and we have added a new selection along the top of EZWP called Resources.

Special Speech for Groom

Is there something special, unique I can do for the groom either at the church or at the reception... a speech or something? Do people do things like that..

Yes, it is very nice of you to do a reading of some special poem, verse, scripture or something you have written yourself that expresses your feelings for him. A good time to do this at the ceremony is before the vows and after the exchange of rings (check with the officiant for time suggestions and run the reading past him/her before you give it). Keep it short (no more than a few minutes).

You could also do it at the reception, as part of the toast process (best man proposed toast, etc.)

Small Budget

We have a small budget of $1000. We need tables chairs a cake and dinner. Please let us know if you can help. Thank You.

See the Advice section (top menu bar in EZWP) especially the Budget Wedding Tips topic.

If you or your family are members of a church, they usually have tables and chairs that you can borrow for free. You may also consider having the reception in the Church basement, which generally has enough room and kitchen facilities, etc. The ladies society of your church may also help serve (and you can give them a donation). There may be other places to rent/borrow tables/chairs inexpensively (local schools, or American legions, etc.)

Cakes from grocery stores and local bakeries taste great and are generally much cheaper than specialty cake bakers. Depending on the number of guests you are inviting, a small cake may do. Also, it is less expensive to have a small tiered cake to cut for show and then sheet cakes to cut up to feed the guests. No one cares what type of cake it came from as long as they get a piece. You may also find that you have an Aunt or neighbor, etc. who makes wedding cakes as a side business and will do one for you inexpensively or donate it if as your gift if they are coming to your wedding. Be sure to see pictures of their work before you accept, because it might be a mistake, unless you've seen the finished product before.

You didn't say if you are catering this yourself or not, but also in Advice, there is a topic on Catering - do-it-yourself with suggested amounts of food, etc. Also look at some of the other catering topics - like low cost ideas, which may give you some tips on feeding your guests.

Time of day of the wedding and day of week, etc. make a difference on how much food and costs, etc. you need. Again low cost catering ideas may help.

Where to Seat Son and Brother

I am having my oldest son and my brother give me away at my wedding because my father has past away and I was wondering should they sit at the head table or just at my family's table with my mother?

The person/people who give you away do not need to sit at the bridal/head table (which typically is just the bridal party - bride/groom bridesmaids and groomsmen).

It's perfectly acceptable to have them sit with your mother at the family table and they/she may prefer that. You can, however, have anyone you want sit at the bridal table. The size and layout of the tables and reception room may also determine how many people comfortably sit at each table.