To You A Favor's Wedding Blog

Creative tips for budget bridal showers

2009-07-13T00:51:00.005-04:00

Creative tips for budget bridal showers

(ARA) - When hosting a bridal shower, it can be easy to get carried away. Hosts, typically a close friend or relative of the bride, often feel obligated to give the bride the “perfect” party -- a concept as elusive as it is expensive.

However, if you find yourself planning an upcoming bridal shower on a budget, have no fear: It’s entirely possible to plan a tasteful, fun and sentimental gathering without breaking the bank. Here are five time-saving and cost-cutting ways to throw a beautiful bridal shower:

Invitations

It can be tempting to blow your entire budget for the party on the invitations, but consider saving money (and time) by sending them electronically. Web sites like Pingg.com make sending invitations and tracking responses electronically a breeze. And with an enormous online image database, it’s almost guaranteed that even the pickiest planner will find the perfect invitation design.

Food

Skip hours of baking and frosting and provide your guests with a creative and low-fat ice cream cake. Ice cream sandwiches from The Skinny Cow look sweet when stacked in a pyramid and topped with creative garnishes. Your guests will be thankful for a low-fat snack option, and you will have time to actually enjoy the party. Sandwiches come in strawberry shortcake, chocolate, vanilla, vanilla/chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, mint and cookies n’ cream flavors. Use one flavor for a consistent look or mix and match flavors for extra guest options.

Drink

Sangria is an unexpected and delicious drink to serve at your shower. Added bonus: the ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find. You can even substitute grape juice and seltzer water for wine for a tasty non-alcoholic version. The only other ingredients required are slices of fresh fruits such as oranges, pears and peaches, and about 1/4 cup of sugar. For variations on the classic recipe, check out Cooks.com or AllRecipes.com

Games

Rework an old classic by playing a game of Bridal Shower Bingo. First, create copies of a blank grid resembling a bingo card. As the guests arrive, have them fill out the grid with gifts that they think the bride will receive. (The free space is in the middle and players can write their own gift in this space.) As the bride opens a gift, players cross it off their bingo card. Award a prize to the first person to fill five spaces in a row, across or diagonally.

Favors

Pamper your guests with homemade body scrubs in simple, elegant glass mason jars. You can even customize the recipe below to include your favorite scents and colors.

Homemade Body Scrub

You will need:

3 cups Epsom salt (or coarse sea salt)

1 cup oil (almond, canola or olive oil usually works best)

Essential oils for fragrance

Mason jars

Instructions:

First, measure out your salt and pour into a large container. Measure out the oil and slowly pour into the salt while stirring. Finally, add the essential oil to the desired strength. Attach any desired ribbons, hang tags or other decorations to the outside of the jar.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Happy Fourth of July Everyone!

2009-07-03T12:31:00.006-04:00

Hi Everyone,

To You A Favor wishes everyone a grill'n, family filled 4th. To You A Favor will be closing at 3:00PM so we can all get the weekend started.

Making your day Favorably special,

LeRon
admin@toyouafavorweddingblog.com
To You A Favor website

To You A Favor's 4th of July Sale!

2009-06-30T00:45:00.002-04:00

To You A Favor is having a 4th of July Sale! No coupon needed. Spend $100 or more and receive 10% off your order.

To You A Favor Wedding Gifts & Favors

Making your day Favorably special,

LeRon
admin@toyouafavorweddingblog.com

Updating the bridal registry: Eco luxury for the bath

2009-06-30T00:25:00.003-04:00

(MS) -- Traditionally, the bridal registry is the place where the "art of living" meets the "art of giving." It is the place where couples select items they would like to enhance their new lifestyle (the art of living) while providing friends and family with the assurance that these gifts will be welcomed and appreciated (the art of giving).

Today's couples are updating this time-honored tradition by using their registry entries to expand both the arts of living and giving by incorporating their ethical values into the gifts they request. Protecting the environment is a value shared by many couples, and they are reflecting this ethical choice by listing eco luxury plumbing products as gifts they are eager to receive.

"Young couples today are walking their talk by suggesting to friends and family that they give sustainable plumbing products as wedding gifts," says Lenora Campos, spokesperson for TOTO USA, an eco-luxury plumbing manufacturer. "In turn, to be welcomed into their well designed new homes, high-efficiency plumbing products must make both water sense and fashion sense."

The Aesthetics of Conspicuous Conservation

Brides and grooms today eschew the "conspicuous consumption" of past generations in favor of "conspicuous conservation" by factoring water efficiency in the design of their home's bath spaces in an effort to reduce its overall impact on the water environment. "Environmentally conscientious brides and grooms are challenging themselves to come up with ways to make their homes more sustainable without sacrificing the aesthetics of their interior's design," says Campos. Fortunately, manufacturers such as TOTO offer products whose aesthetic attributes are as good as their performance and functional benefits. Suites of design-coordinated products are available that include WaterSense labeled high efficiency toilets (HETs) and high-efficiency faucets (HEF) --and soon showers (HES).

WaterSense Labeling Program

Briefly, WaterSense, a water efficiency program launched by the Environmental Protection Agency, is designed to educate Americans to make smart water choices that save money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance. WaterSense aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable water use, ensure the performance of water-efficient products, and provide good consumer information to create a water efficiency ethic in the US.

The WaterSense label -- like the Energy Star label before it -- is easily identified on products that perform more efficiently than their counterparts. Unlike the Energy Star label, however, the WaterSense label requires independent, third-party testing to verify that the products met its labeling criteria.

Low Water Mark

To qualify for the WaterSense label, manufacturers must obtain third-party verification that their high-efficiency toilet models consume no more than 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf; a 20% reduction from the 1.6 gpf mandated by the Energy Policy Act of 1992); effectively remove 350 grams of solid waste; and resist after-installation tampering (to increase water consumption).

Given inconsistencies in available information, some young couples have come to equate "dual flush" with high efficiency. "This limited understanding that has led them to ignore other flushing systems that, from a practical point of view, give equivalent or better water savings without demanding behavioral changes such as choosing between full flush (1.6 gpf) and light flush (.9 gpf)," offers Campos.

High efficiency single-flush toilets offer a larger water spot, which reduces streaking, and they generally save an equal or larger amount of water than dual-flush units -- especially because many dual-flush users mistakenly use the full flush mode (1.6 gpf) to remove liquid waste, thereby actually using more water. A high efficiency, single-flush model could potentially offer more certain benefits.

Going With the Flow

Faucets are focal points of the bath. Eye-catching lavatory faucets drive the sensory experience of the room. Not only are they artful in their own right, but they also provide visual pleasure by shaping the water's physical presentation as well as its warm, soothing somatic benefits.

According to the EPA, faucets account for more than 15 percent of indoor household water use -- more than 1 trillion gallons of water across the United States each year. Even though the Energy Policy Act of 1992 requires that new faucets not exceed 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm), older faucets can flow at rates as high as 3 to 7 gpm.

High-efficiency faucets (HEFs) and accessories such as faucet aerators can reduce this standard flow by more than 30 percent without sacrificing performance. If the country's 222 million existing bathroom lavatory faucets were retrofit with high-efficiency models, the US could save billions of gallons each year.

WaterSense labeled HEFs use no more than 1.5 gpm and have completed a third-party certification process that includes independent laboratory testing to ensure that they meet criteria for both performance and efficiency, even in homes with lower water pressures.

On the Water Front

The EPA's WaterSense program is currently developing a specification for high-efficiency showerheads, which establishes a single maximum flow rate somewhere between 1.5 gpm and 2.0 gpm (measured at 80 pounds per square inch of pressure), which would represent between a 20 to 40 percent reduction from the current federally allowable maximum of 2.5 gpm established by the Energy Policy Act of 1992. WaterSense determined this potential range after an examination of products currently available in the marketplace.

"The challenge is to establish a specification that will provide young couples with the showering experience they expect while using less water," says Campos. "TOTO provides a luxurious, water-efficient showering experience at 1.75 gpm.

Safety Valve

Switching to a high-efficiency showerhead seems like an easy way for young couples to go green and save money on water bills, but they need to be well acquainted with the behind-the-wall plumbing, specifically the mixing valve. These valves, which usually include a regulator that minimizes changes in temperature, are designed to work at a minimum flow rate. If the showerhead is operating at an extremely low water volume, the valve may not be able to handle effectively changes in hot or cold water pressure, which leads to bursts of scalding or freezing water that bathers detest. "Our new SMA shower sets make it possible to relax and unwind in hot shower without the fear of sudden changes in water temperature," says Campos. "The Shape Memory Alloy technology provides an satisfying shower and further enhances the experience by suppressing water hammer at its end -- that unpleasant banging sound that results when water rushing through pipes is brought to a quick halt creating akind of shock wave and hammering noise."

For more information on TOTO products, call (800) 350-8686 or visit www.TOTOUSA.com.

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Has the economy affected your wedding plans?

2009-06-28T23:00:00.000-04:00

To You A Favor would like to hear from all brides & grooms that are feeling the economic pressure of rising prices on just about everything consumable.

So please post your comments here and let us hear from you. What changes have you made if any to your current plans.

Have you planned a destination wedding at an exotic beach getaway and now going to the local shore? Or have you had to change venue, catering and cake sizes due to the fact that you are inviting less guest.

Would you like to suggests some things that might work for others? Post it here.

Making your day Favorably special,

LeRon
admin@toyouafavorweddingblog.com
www.toyouafavorweddingblog.com

New Favors 2009

2009-06-21T15:15:00.014-04:00

To You A Favor has added lots of new favors this year. Here are just a few:

Side by Side - Bride-and-Groom Photo Album Favors

Picture this delightfully designed photo album at each place setting, pleasing your guests immensely! They can fill the12 photo holders with images from your wedding or their own favorite photos. It's another Kate Aspen original with plenty of pizzazz! Features and facts:

Bride's gown and pink rose bouquet graces one album cover, and the groom's tux is on the other
Photo album is crafted from heavyweight, glossy paper with clear-plastic photo inserts
The album holds one dozen 3" x 2 3/4" photos Album is accented with a white, satin bow at the top, along with a signature Kate Aspen gift-box charm
Photo album measures approximately 4" h x 3" w x 3/4

Luminous Black Mini-Lantern Tea Light Holder

Let your event bask in the glow of Kate Aspen's contemporary take on an antique design. You'll be amazed at the ambience created at your tables by simply lighting a tea candle in this mini lantern. Oh, what a night you'll have!

Features and facts:

Decorative lantern is skillfully crafted from matte-black metal and glass
Lantern measures approximately 7" h (with handle extended) x 3" square
Tea light not included

Slice of Style - Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server

There are two things in every woman's future a new pair of shoes and a luscious chocolate layer cake! No bridal shower favor or girls' night out gift tells it like it is more than the "Slice of Style" Stainless-Steel High Heel Cake Server. This fashionable favor is practical, and the packaging is priceless!

Features and facts:

Curved cake server is crafted from stainless steel
Artfully designed showcase gift box has a pink background with thin, white stripes, a black base with white polka dots all tied with a black ribbon and bow covered with white polka dots
The handle of the cake server sits atop a faux "heel"
Gift box measures 8 1/2" l x 2" h x 2 1/4" d

Making your day Favorably special!

To You A Favor

Expert Advice Translates to Successful Honeymoon Planning

2009-06-10T00:05:00.001-04:00

(MS) -- After months of planning and saving for a wedding, a honeymoon offers one-on-one time for the couple to have fun, develop a deeper relationship, and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation.

Among couples who enjoy a traditional wedding, statistics say that 99 percent take a honeymoon. The average honeymoon costs approximately $5,000. Since a honeymoon will account for at least 14 percent of the total wedding budget, couples want to ensure that theirs is money well spent -- especially in an economy where every penny counts. Preparation is the key to honeymoon success.

"Working with travel professionals that specialize in honeymoon and destination wedding planning can help ensure couples have a memorable honeymoon," says Scott Ellingboe, CEO of The Honeymoon (www.thehoneymoon.com), an online honeymoon planning resource with a honeymoon gift registry service and a nationwide network of independent, experienced travel agents. "Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or use a travel expert, you'll enjoy browsing the honeymoon package and resort listings and reading the entertaining and informative stories in our multi-media digital magazine. You're bound to find something you weren't looking for that will help you create a better honeymoon experience." Additional tips provided are:

* Enjoy clear skies or bottomless blue water: Timing plays a large role in honeymoon travel. It's important to research the average weather conditions for prospective honeymoon locales during the month you'll be traveling as well as any events that may take place at that time. This way you book your honeymoon during an optimal time for the best conditions, both in regards to weather and the local culture.

* Save money: Putting honeymoon plans into the hands of an expert could add up to considerable savings. "Travel agents have relationships with tour and package providers that they can leverage in ways the average consumer cannot," offers Ellingboe. Turn to a honeymoon expert for honeymoon planning needs so your honeymoon can truly be a trip of a lifetime.

* Honeymoon registry: Not just for budget-conscious brides- and grooms-to-be, consider creating a honeymoon registry to give your wedding guests an alternative to crock pots, toasters and blenders. Wedding guests can improve your honeymoon experience by gifting the activities, excursions and dining experiences that make the trip memorable.

* Pack a variety of clothing options: Bring a few different outfits of varying levels of formality so that you'll have options on your trip. Depending upon the resort or ship, there may be specific dress codes at certain restaurants or meal times; you don't want to be caught off-guard. Make sure your research includes destination clothing requirements since what is acceptable culturally varies widely across the globe.

* Read reviews: There's a reason review sites are so popular -- they help people make better, more informed decisions. Advertising gives you one perspective, reviews give you another. Make sure that you read reviews of the places you are considering for your honeymoon so that you get a variety of viewpoints.

For more tips, reviews and ideas for honeymoon & destination wedding travel, visit www.thehoneymoon.com

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Wedding Toast Tips

2009-06-01T12:37:00.004-04:00

A wedding day toast is a tradition that has long been a part of wedding celebrations. Toasts are a personal way of commemorating the good fortune of the newly betrothed and looking forward to future happiness.

The best man traditionally gives the main toast at the wedding. At different occasions on the road to the wedding there may be other opportunities for toasts from the maid of honor or even the parents of the bride and groom.

While some people are natural orators and have no trouble speaking in front of large crowds of people, the majority of toasters approach the toast with a bit of trepidation. Apart from the anxiety of speaking in front of a group of friends and relatives, it can be nervewracking to come up with sentiments for the toast, which can mean the difference between a memorable or an embarrassing wedding day experience.

While there are no toasting guarantees, following a few tips can help nervous toasters do a bang-up job.

* Be prepared: Individuals who try to "wing it" the day of the wedding may find their nerves get the best of them. It's best to write out your thoughts in advance of the wedding and fine tune your sentiments many times. Think about whether you want to go funny or sentimental. Consider your relationship with the bride and groom and try to personalize the speech as much as possible. Practice the toast in front of others and get some unbiased opinions before the wedding.

* Time it right: If the thought of spending the entire reception waiting to give the toast has you on edge, ask the prospective couple if you can give the toast early on in the night. This way you can relax afterward and enjoy the party.

* Jot down notes: If you think your nerves will get the best of you, bring some index cards with key phrases of the toast. You could write out the entire speech, but if you simply read it, the toast could seem stiff and impersonal.

* Hold off on cocktails: While it's generally fine to have one or two drinks prior to the toast to loosen up, it's not recommended to be intoxicated. Alcohol and public speaking often do not mix. You don't want to say something you will regret later on or make a mockery of the wedding.

* Keep it short: Aim for a two- or three-minute speech. Something long-winded won't hold the attention of wedding guests who are looking to get on with the fun of the wedding reception.

* Speak slowly and clearly: Articulate and speak loud enough so everyone can hear the speech. You will likely be handed a microphone. If you get nervous and trip up, simply make a quick joke and get back to it. Others will understand if you are tense.

* Don't be afraid of getting emotional: "Wedding guests would rather see real feelings than a beauty-pageant speech," says Sharon Naylor, author of "Your Special Wedding Toasts." So if you get choked-up, don't worry.

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Great Idea for Wedding Keepsake

2009-05-31T23:25:00.009-04:00

Here's a great idea sent in by one of our readers. I checked the website out and I think it a good idea.

Thanks to Ms. Valley Hart for the story and idea.

I found the greatest keepsake for my sister’s wedding. It’s a personalized newspaper. You make up the headline and it includes lots of fun articles that we all enjoyed reading. It’s printed by hand on authentic newsprint on an antique printing press, so it doesn’t look scanned or digital. It looks like a real newspaper. I’m including the link so you can read about it.

Personal Headlines Gift Ideas
LeRon

Choosing Groomsmen

2009-05-31T23:15:00.001-04:00

I know! I know! It’s always about the bride and what’s happening on their special day… from choosing their dress to choosing the bridesmaids. What about the groom and his groomsmen. What’s a good way to go about choosing guys to be in your wedding?

Let’s start with the possible “gimmes” a brother(s), a dad and brother-in-law if you’ve known him for awhile and are considered friends.

Most men have a very tight group of guys that are always around and ready for whatever. These guys are our best friends. So the dilemma is who to choose. My bestman was my first friend. But the other guys came in like clockwork.

I chose from my life’s path. There was my brother who has been with me all my life. Next, I went with 2 guys from childhood, then one from high school and one from college. Last were my two new brother-in-laws whom I had known since dating my wife, (about 8 years). So I was set. You may use a similar system, but there is no right or wrong. You can’t worry about hurting people feelings if they weren’t that close or were new friends in last couple of years. However, using new friends work great if you haven’t kept in touch with older buddies.

When selecting potential groomsman, you may also want to consider the financial obligation of being a groomsman. They will have to rent a tux, on average renting could cost about $150 depending on what you have chosen. That’s not like bridesmaid dresses that could possibly (hopefully) be used again and again. There is also the cost of hotel accommodations, gas, airplane tickets, time off from work, etc… Don’t wait until the last minute when deciding. Give everyone enough notice so schedules can coordinate with your wedding date.

You may also need to choose a couple of guys to serve as ushers. The ushers will have their own duties but could stand in for a groomsman if an unfortunate event happened.

When it’s all said and done, don’t forget to choose the right gift for each guy. They don’t all have to receive the same thing. You can give gifts based on the personalities of each of your friends and what they mean to you.

It’s your choice, so don’t get bullied. Think carefully about your friends and choose wisely.

Making your day favorably special,

LeRon

admin@toyouafavorweddingblog.com
www.toyouafavorweddingblog.com

Do I have to provide Wedding Favors (Part 2)?

2009-05-28T07:45:00.003-04:00

I wrote the other day about whether you had to provide wedding favors for your guest. I said that you didn’t have to but that it was expected. As I was scanning the internet looking for various things, I came across several polls at different sites asking opinions about this very topic.

Most of the polls were running neck & neck with yes you should or no you shouldn’t. The most frequent reason for the no’s was that providing favors were too expensive.

My question is… why not include them in your wedding budget like everything else? Favors don’t have to be expensive whether you’re a do–it-yourselfer or if you purchase them ready made.

I haven’t attended a wedding with more than 350 guests. For that many people, you can find some really nice ready-to-go favors, most for $2.00 or less. A lot of places offer tiered pricing so the more you order the less it cost. So we’re talking about $700 for 350 guests.

I have seen couples and/or parents of couples dropping monstrous amounts in food and alcohol alone. I have done some catering in my time so seeing figures between $6000 - $25,000 for venue, catering & drinks is a reality. No dress, cake, or flowers yet.

I have had people telling me that spending high dollars on food is crazy, but I’ve been to a few weddings where I have talked about the food for days afterwards and was glad the money was spent.

I am not pushing the fact that you need to have favors. But, if you decide to have them, don’t make them an after though.

All in all as I said before you have to do what makes you happy and spend your money wisely to get the maximum value out of your dollar.

Making your day favorably special,

LeRon D. Jones
ljones@toyouafavor.com
www.toyouafavorweddingblog.com

Guest Blogger: Peace of Mind for your Special Day

2009-05-28T01:15:00.001-04:00

You’ve always dreamed of planning the perfect wedding, but no matter how carefully you plan it, there are many things that can go wrong – things that are beyond your control. A wedding is an investment, and as the average cost of weddings rise, wedding insurance is needed more than ever. After all, you wouldn’t buy a new car that costs as much as a wedding without insuring it against damage!

You may not want to think about it but a lot can go wrong. What if:

· Your reception venue goes out of business a month before the wedding and you lose your deposit and have to find another location?
· Your bridal shop closes, leaving you without a gown?
· Your wedding photographer calls to tell you that the photos were ruined during the development process?

For as little as $160, your wedding insurance policy can cover a variety of situations such as:

· No dress: You can get repair or replacement cost if the bride’s wedding gown or groom’s tuxedo is lost or damaged.
· Lost deposits: You can be reimbursed your deposit if a vendor goes out of business, declares bankruptcy before your wedding or simply fails to show up.
· Lost rings: You can receive repair or replacement cost if the bride or groom’s wedding bands are lost or damaged.
· Ruined photos: If your photographer’s film is defective, or negatives lost or damaged, we can help cover the cost to re-take new photos.
· Call to duty: If the bride or groom is unexpectedly called up to active duty or has her or his military service leave revoked, forcing you to postpone the vent, we can provide reimbursement for non-recoverable expenses.
· Damaged gifts: You can get repair or replacement cost if your wedding gifts are damaged.
· Venue requires insurance: As an additional option to your policy, you can add liability coverage to protect yourself in case a guest is injured or causes damage to the property.

Wedding insurance helps make things right when something goes wrong.

If you are interested in obtaining a quote or more information about wedding insurance, please contact Colleen Lovette of GHT Insurance Agency at 804-428-0000.

Article Wrtten by Colleen Lovette for To You A Favor's Wedding Blog. Colleen will be contributing articles to give new couples a good start on life's events.

Colleen Lovette
colleen@ghtinsurance.com

Do I have to provide Wedding favors?

2009-05-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

No, you don't have to provide favors but it is expected.

What I have found is that wedding favors are rapidly becoming a strong wedding tradition. Brides and even grooms look for that little something to thank their guests for sharing in their special day.

To help you decide what to offer your guests, ask yourself these questions:

• How much am I willing to spend?
• How many guests am I inviting?
• Are most of my guests coming as couples?
• Are you having a sit down dinner or buffet style meal?
• Can I choose something that can be used later?

There are many ways to have elegant favors at an affordable price for your guests. Many favors can be had between $1.00 and $2.00; it all depends on the number of guests. . Soap favors are very affordable and go over very well.

If your guests are being invited as couples, coasters are very practical keepsake that they will use over and over. While coasters are a more expensive wedding favor, you can keep the cost down by purchasing a boxed set and putting them at every other place setting. Some coasters can also be used as place card holders.

Another option is to provide enough favors to give only to your female guests. I haven’t seen many “manly” favors. In my experience, the only men I see with a favor are holding it for his wife, girlfriend or mom.
You could also present several different favors in a basket for guests to pick up as they depart. That way you won’t have to worry about having something for each person. Place the basket strategically near the door so your guests can get a token of the day as they leave.

Overall, keep it simple and easy! Do whatever makes you happy!

Making your day favorably special,

LeRon D. Jones
ljones@toyouafavor.com
http://www.toyouafavor.com/

Go beyond green with eco-friendly beauty trends

2009-05-08T00:15:00.001-04:00

Go beyond green with eco-friendly beauty trends

(ARA) – Green living doesn’t have to mean forgoing the latest looks, especially when eco-conscious beauty is the hottest thing going. Formulations driven by nature, practices that are kind to the earth and minimal packaging are all cool ways to celebrate the warm weather.

Here are some of the hottest eco-conscious beauty trends going:

Fresh as a Rose

The classic and perfect rose inspires some of the hottest colors and scents of the season. Cheeks blush in pretty shades of pink for day and bold fuchsia for evening while glamorous pink lips perfectly accompany spring smiles. For an all-over ethereal glow, the Roseflower Radiance Stick from The Body Shop is a soft, natural and preservative-free way to achieve a dewy spring glow. Match spring’s romantic mood and sweep the silky, sheer golden pink highlighter along the cheekbones for a subtle shimmer that enhances the complexion.

* Style Highlight

Made with rose oil from the “valley of roses” near the Atlas Mountains, The Body Shop Moroccan Rose Body Butter melts on contact with the skin for superb hydration and releases the delectable fragrance of roses harvested at dawn, at their fragrance peak. It also features rich Community Trade ingredients from Ghana and Brazil.

Pastels and Pinks

This season, eyes shimmer in paparazzi-friendly pastel greens, pinks and golds. Celebrity makeup artist Chase Aston says a soft gold eye shimmer is fresh and modern and is perfect for an allover eye, from lash to brow. For a contemporary effect, a cool mint green swept along the top lash line and underneath the lower lashes sings spring.

* Style Highlight

“To take this runway look to night and capture a perfectly imperfect smoky eye, take a black eye definer pencil and line along top lash line, then dip an eye color brush into midnight blue eye color and smudge over eye definer line,” says Aston.

Waste Not

What is on the outside of a beauty product is just as important as what’s within. Look for sustainably-harvested and fairly-traded ingredients as well as minimal packaging made from post-consumer materials. And when you’re done with a container, remember to recycle it!

Wild Accessories

Reduce, reuse and recycle are today’s hottest buzzwords. Raid your closet for vintage jewelry and accessories or hit your local thrift shop for a bold bargain that pops. When the sun is shining, remember to protect yourself from UV rays with a stylish round pair of sunglasses.

Beauty that Gives Back

Being good to the Earth also includes being kind to the people who inhabit the planet. Everyday products and practices can make a big difference, so look for beauty that gives back.

*Style Highlight

Purchasing a product like the preservative-free Tantalizing Lip Butter from The Body Shop and MTV means a donation is made to the Staying Alive Foundation -- a charity saving lives by empowering young people around the world to protect themselves and their communities against HIV and AIDS. Now that’s beautiful.

And when you’re done all your beauty shopping, you need an eco-friendly and stylish bag to carry all your goodies home in. Try The Body Shop Bag for Life, which is a reusable, organically grown cotton bag produced without harmful pesticides.

For more information on eco-conscious beauty, visit TheBodyShop-USA.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Wedding Mapper Connects Brides in Local Communities with Ask-A-Bride to Boost Wedding Planning Collaboration

2009-04-29T22:43:00.010-04:00

Ask-A-Bride enables free, interactive do-it-yourself wedding planning with local brides

Peak wedding season is approaching and more than 2.2 million U.S. couples plan to wed this year. With do-it-yourself planning on the rise, Wedding Mapper, the premier online destination for engaged couples worldwide, is unveiling the industry’s first bridal collaboration service, Ask-A-Bride. Through Ask-A-Bride, brides can now ask newlyweds direct questions about their wedding décor, theme, location, vendors and more. Ask-A-Bride offers brides access to Wedding Mapper’s online community of more than 35,000 brides who have shared their wedding stories, photos and vendor reviews in over 10,000 cities worldwide.

“After months of planning, brides become local wedding experts and have extensive knowledge to share with brides-to-be going through the same process,” said Julie King, vice president of sales and marketing for Wedding Mapper. “Through Ask-A-Bride, we enable brides to learn directly from local newlyweds who are typically excited to share their wedding knowledge and experiences.”

To leverage Wedding Mapper’s Ask-A-Bride service, brides explore Real Weddings in a destination city and select the “Ask a Question” button to contact a particular bride. An email is then sent to the bride who can choose to respond to the question on WeddingMapper.com. Ask-A-Bride launched in beta in February 2009, and hundreds of brides have since used it to receive direct advice on topics ranging from vendors to wedding personalization to floral décor. To date, 70 percent of questions submitted via Ask-A-Bride have received voluntary responses from brides within one week.

With reduced budgets, brides are taking on more wedding planning tasks themselves, according to The Wedding Report‘s Q1 2009 State of the Industry survey. To support a budget-conscious bride, Wedding Mapper offers other free, do-it-yourself planning tools and services including “Ask the Expert,” where brides get personal questions answered by wedding expert and author, Sharon Naylor. Brides can also create custom wedding maps, explore 35,000 Real Weddings, examine vendor reviews, find local wedding events, or post questions on local and global message boards.

“Today’s bride is increasingly engaged in the wedding planning process seeking to make her day personal and unique,” said Julie King. “We foresee more brides joining the DIY movement in 2009 and look forward to supporting them with interactive wedding planning tools that make it fun, efficient, and best of all, free.”

About Wedding Mapper
Wedding Mapper is the premiere online destination for engaged couples worldwide, featuring interactive planning tools and more than 35,000 Real Weddings with photos, stories and detailed vendor reviews from more than 10,000 cities around the world. Delivering personalized solutions for engaged couples, Wedding Mapper’s innovative platform connects users with wedding experts and married couples, facilitates conversation on its hyper-local message boards, enables customization of wedding maps, informs users of local events, and more. For businesses, Wedding Mapper offers the industry’s first auction-based localized advertising platform built on proprietary technology that enables vendors to reach local, qualified prospects in a cost-effective manner. Founded in January 2007, Wedding Mapper is a privately-held company based in San Francisco, CA.

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Beth M. Cleveland | Elm Public Relations |
Wedding Mapper

Capture Great Wedding Day Photo Memories

2009-04-29T07:12:00.004-04:00

(MS) -- While couples about to get married may differ with respect to personal style or what season in which to hold their wedding, most agree that having photo memories of their wedding is essential. That's why a photographer is such an important part of the wedding planning process.

Although professional wedding portraits and albums are a key component to good memories, candid shots from you -- the family and friends who attend the wedding -- are some of the most cherished photos a couple can have. Here are some tips for capturing all the incredible moments of this important day.

* Familiarize yourself with the camera: Take some time to learn the ins and outs of your camera before you're called upon to take pictures of the wedding. Learn the best way to zoom and focus, and find out if your camera has any special features, such as black and white capabilities or panoramic views. Also, don't forget to charge or replace the batteries. For those with digital memory cards, purchase a new one with plenty of space so you can freely snap away.

* Tell a story: Start taking pictures before the wedding even occurs. If you're a friend or a family member, capture the special events leading up to the wedding, such as dress fittings, choosing wedding rings, the bridal shower, or shots of the bachelor party. This way the photos can be put together to tell the entire story of the wedding, culminating with the big day.

* Go for the close-up: Stand no more than 4 to 6 feet from your subjects when snapping a picture. You want to be sure the couple is the central focus of the picture, not the distracting background items.

* Shoot candid shots: Posed pictures have their place, but candid shots can really capture the mood and excitement of the day. Snap away while everyone is dancing, when the couple isn't looking, or if you see a special moment that others may not be aware of.

* Include pictures of party participants: The couple will have plenty of images of themselves and their wedding party in a photographer's album. What they may be missing are the people who actually attended the wedding. Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the people who came together to share in this special day.

* Special surprise: Thanks to the immediate gratification that digital cameras provide, you can treat the happy couple to a preview of their wedding pictures even before the big day has ended. Use the time between the wedding ceremony and reception to have a few prints of the nuptials printed. Place them in a photo album and give this gift to the couple at the reception.
Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Couples Saying 'I Do' to Destination Weddings

2009-04-29T07:06:00.005-04:00

CAPTION: Many couples choose to tie the knot away from home. This enables them to marry the ceremony and a vacation in one convenient package.

Are you thinking of heading out of town for your wedding? If so, you're not alone. Conde Nast Bridal Group's American Wedding Study (2006) reported that 16 percent of couples are now choosing to have a destination wedding.

While you may think they're for the rich and famous, destination weddings can actually be less expensive than traditional celebrations closer to home. This may be advantageous to brides and grooms who are feeling the effects of today's economic crunch. That's because destination weddings generally have smaller guest lists, and many of the "extras" that are tacked on to a traditional wedding are covered in the all-inclusive price of a destination event. So you can cut down on the cost of the $20,000 to $30,000 average-priced wedding, particularly if guests are paying for their own tickets.

Destination weddings are for individuals who want to put the focus on fun. They enable you to pump up the enjoyment factor and marry a vacation and a wedding into one handy package. They also start the honeymoon at the point of arrival at your destination. One-of-a-kind memories are created with a destination wedding, particularly when exotic locales are the backdrop for your celebration.

Because travel is involved, destination weddings are often facilitated with the help of a travel agent or wedding planner. This person can help you work out all of the details of the wedding, primarily when you're working with vendors that may be out of state or out of the country. Keep in mind that if you have your heart set on all of your friends and family being able to attend your wedding, destination weddings may not be the way to go. That's because even with the best planning, it's relatively impossible for everyone's schedules to coordinate for this kind of event.

While there certainly are negatives to having a wedding away from home, the growing list of positives attracts more and more couples each year:

* reduced fuss over a wedding that takes place at home, where most of the planning is being handled by the couple

* budgetary factors, including lower costs for a less elaborate affair

* informal choices for wedding attire, saving even more money

* something different for the couples who like to stand out

* alternatives for second weddings or those who prefer less tradition

* loosening of marriage laws overseas, which make it easier for couples to tie the knot in foreign locales

* the opportunity for "destination anniversaries," where couples can revisit their wedding site for even more memories

Couples looking to add excitement to their wedding without much fuss can turn to destination weddings when tying the knot.

Courtesy og Metro Creative Connection

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon

2009-04-13T00:15:00.001-04:00

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon

(ARA) – The date is set, the dress is bought and the tuxes are rented -- now you get to plan your first vacation together as husband and wife. Whether your ideal honeymoon is traveling to the Swiss Alps for some mountain fun or relaxing on an exotic beach in the Caribbean, it's a special time you'll never forget. So what do you need to know to plan the perfect honeymoon that goes off without a hitch?

"Everyone wants the greatest honeymoon possible, but be sure to review the little details so they don't turn into big problems," says Michael Kelly, president of On Call International, a medical and travel assistance company. "The best thing you can do is research, plan and prepare together as a team."

Here are some things to consider when planning the perfect honeymoon:

1. Choose a destination together.

Pick a destination that you both really want to visit. Each person should choose the top three places they would like to honeymoon and then compare lists. If you both want something relaxing, a traditional spa vacation in the tropics is a good choice. If you are adventure junkies, be sure to visit a location that offers lots of fun activities.

2. 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 traveling and see what rules are different. It's a good idea to check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to find out what types of immunizations are recommended for Americans at that specific destination. And remember, if you don't have a passport or need to renew, allow ample time for processing. If you're changing your name after your wedding, make sure that the name on your travel documents matches what is on your passport so that you don’t experience any delays through security and customs.

3. Get medical and travel assistance services.

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

Your health insurance might not cover you while you travel, so a company like On Call International is there to help. On Call members get access to a 24-hour emergency response center to find doctors in their travel area, a 24-hour English-speaking nurse line to help identify symptoms, and coverage should a traveler need to return home for medical reasons.

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

4. Pack the right stuff.

Sure you want to look great for your spouse, but sometimes looking chic and dressing appropriately for the location you're visiting might not be the same thing. Research what tourists usually wear at your chosen location. If you're traveling internationally, different cultures might have different expectations. Also remember that extreme weather, hot and cold, requires different types of clothing, so pack accordingly and you won’t have to buy something at an exorbitant price when you get there.

5. Eat, drink and be merry.

No one wants to be stuck in their hotel bathroom with a stomachache on their honeymoon. Food and water in different countries can be contaminated so do your research before celebrating at the local restaurant. When in doubt, ask your hotel concierge for advice. If you are buying your own food, sealed products are usually safer options because they come directly from the distribution center.

"These planning tips should help you have the honeymoon of your dreams. If something does go wrong, remember to work through it and enjoy the time you have together. After all, it's one of the most important and special vacations you'll ever take," says Kelly.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Bridal Registry Tips and Items You'll Really Use

2009-04-10T00:10:00.001-04:00

Bridal Registry Tips and Items You'll Really Use

(ARA) - While the fondue pot and ice cream maker seem like must-haves when you’re adding items to your bridal registry, it’s important to ask yourself, “Will I really use these items on a regular basis?” You may want to reconsider your selections. And, although making a wedding gift wish list can be daunting, the following tips can keep the happy couple celebrating wedded bliss for years to come.

Registry Basics

Before you and your sweetheart start scanning items for your registry, do your homework. Consider the size of your space and where you will store your new items. If you’re living in an apartment or smaller condominium, you may want to rethink registering for the super-deluxe size barbecue grill. You’ll be surprised how quickly your new gifts can fill up your space.

Next, think about your guest list. Make sure that you have a variety of items to choose from and at different price points -- high and low -- so guests can purchase items they feel reflect their own taste and that they can afford. Be sure to consider your out-of-town guests as well, by registering for items that are available both at nationwide locations and online, such as Target and Bed Bath & Beyond, to help ensure they can access your registries from anywhere.

Kitchen and Bath Registry Ideas and Necessities

Now that the registry basics are covered, the fun can begin. Start with the rooms that you live in and use the most -- the kitchen and bathroom.

Do you like to host dinner parties? Fine china should be on your list. According to theknot.com, crisp black-and-white dinnerware patterns are all the rage this season. Find something that will not only match your taste and decor, but also be a classic design for years to come.

Want to skip the china, but love to cook? Register for a complete collection of high-end cookware. Stores, such as Sur La Table, offer cool cooking gadgets for the basic, well-stocked and gourmet kitchens alike.

In addition to registering for the mainstays in the kitchen, such as sterling silver flatware and crystal stemware, don’t forget about everyday items like measuring cups and spoons, a kitchen scale, electronic timers or even a microwave oven.

Love a spa feeling and want to re-create it in your bathroom at home? Then don’t settle for a plain, ordinary shower experience when you can create an invigorating one. Register for a new showerhead. Many new showerheads, such as the Enliven showerhead from Moen (available at Target), offer multiple settings that suit any mood -- “Relaxing” wide spray, “Invigorating” concentrated spray and “Refreshing” combination spray. Available in fixed and handheld versions, both feature a spray selector, making it easy to change settings and keep you and your spouse singing in the shower.

Continue to create your spa-like, romantic atmosphere by registering for luxury bath towels and high-thread-count sheets. Other items to consider, both extravagant and necessary, include: a down comforter, feather bed, pillows, alarm clock with dual alarms and a closet organizer.

Beyond the Registry

If you and your significant other are looking for adventure instead of objects, why not create memories instead? Family and friends can help purchase items including your airfare, honeymoon suite or candlelit dinners at your vacation destination on sites such as www.honeymoonwishes.com or www.thebigday.com. Register for horseback riding or scuba diving adventures for you and your sweetheart to have memories that will last a lifetime.

Finding Inspiration

Still need help finding inspiration before registering? Retailers, such as Target, offer planning ideas and buying guides on their Web site by category to help get you started.

Recent, popular items to register for include:

* Luggage

* Tool kit

* Bagless vacuum or steam cleaner

* Patio furniture

* Ultra compact digital camera (to help capture memories of your special day and new life together)

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

For more information about the Enliven three-setting showerheads available at Target, visit moen.com, or call (800) BUY-MOEN.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Stretch Your Wedding Budget by Renting

2009-04-02T00:24:00.003-04:00

Stretch Your Wedding Budget by Renting

(ARA) – Engaged couples long for a wedding day that will be unique and memorable, but in these tough economic times many are becoming more cautious about how they plan and spend their budget.

According to The Wedding Report, a research company that tracks wedding spending in the United States, the average cost of a wedding in 2008 was $21,814. That is a 24 percent decline over the 2007 average of $28,704. This decline doesn’t mean you can’t have exactly what you want on your big day to create your dream wedding.

“You can rent almost anything you need to make your wedding match your vision,” says Christine Wehrman, executive vice president and chief executive officer of the American Rental Association (ARA), the global trade association for the rental industry. “By renting items for your wedding, you have access to products that may have otherwise been too expensive in large quantities. You can get exactly what you want at a price that meets your budget.”

Choose linens that match your wedding colors, or go for classic white to offset the color of your centerpieces. Linens can be rented in a variety of colors and textiles, and add a touch of elegance to every space. Create drama without adding cost by creating a monochromatic design for your table.

Centerpieces can be elegant or casual, depending on your style. Mix tall and short clear vases to add depth to your table and save money on large floral arrangements. Or choose a variety of candleholders to create a vintage-inspired look and a romantic, low-light atmosphere.

Planning an outdoor wedding? Tents can transform any setting into striking surroundings for your big day. ARA member rental businesses have a variety of tents to create the venue, as well as everything you need to make it beautiful and comfortable.

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

Many ARA member rental stores offer personalized service through their Certified Event Rental Professionals (CERPs) who are specially trained to help you choose the right rentals to make your dream wedding come to fruition. Most offer on-site support the day of your wedding, and that’s a day you’ll be looking for all the support you can get!

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

The wonderful experience and memories of your wedding day will be yours to own forever. And everything else? Well, that you can rent! To find your local ARA member rental store, visit www.RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest rental store locator. You can search by geographic location and by the specific type of equipment you are looking to rent.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Registering For a Delicious Future

2009-03-23T01:18:00.005-04:00

(MS) -- Each year, more than 2 million engaged couples face the exhilarating, and often times daunting task of choosing gifts for their bridal registry. Over the past decade, cookware has topped china as the No. 1 gift on bridal registries, indicating a major shift in focus from the dining room to the kitchen.

That's not surprising given that young adults today have come of age watching the Food Network where cooking is center-stage 24/7, as well as reality television series where professional and amateur chefs compete in the kitchen. A yearning to learn how to cook has sparked the launch of new food magazines and cookbooks, as well as a seemingly endless supply of Web sites and Internet chat rooms devoted to food.

In this milieu of heightened awareness of all things culinary, it makes perfect sense that cookware reigns supreme on the minds of couples contemplating their bridal registry list. However, given the enormous amount of cookware options available, many couples approach registering with trepidation. To help guide brides and their fiances through the process, Janice Rassin, National Bridal Director at Meyer Corporation, U.S. -- the largest cookware company in the U.S. with top-named brands, such as Anolon(R), Circulon(R), KitchenAid Cookware(R) and Farberware(R) -- offers the following tips:

* Do a little soul-searching to discover your cooking style: Everyone has their own food style, including preferences for types of cuisines and cooking methods. If you both love Italian food and know that you'll be making pasta dishes regularly, register for a large stockpot, to not only boil the water, but make a generous amount of fresh, homemade pasta sauce to enjoy that week, and store a portion in the freezer for future use. Infinite Circulon offers a cleverly designed 7-quart stockpot with a built-in straining lid that locks into position for draining liquids. This eliminates the need to use and clean a colander. And don't forget to register for a few basic tools and gadgets, such as a garlic press, box grater (to grate cheese), pasta fork, and solid spoon for stirring the sauce.

Prefer simply grilled burgers, chicken and fish? Register for a stovetop grill pan. Most pans are made for use on a single burner and come in round and square shapes. Some pans also include one or two-sided pouring spouts to easily drain drippings and fat that's accumulated at the bottom after cooking. Larger rectangular shaped grill pans can be placed over two burners to accommodate six or more steaks, chicken breasts and other foods -- perfect for entertaining. A few of the double-burner grill pans are reversible with a flat griddle on the other side to prepare pancakes, sausages and bacon -- terrific for hosting weekend brunch for your new in-laws or neighbors.

Whichever shape pan you choose, make sure it has professional heft and spreads heat evenly. In addition to traditional cast iron, consider easier to maintain grill pans made of durable, hard-anodized aluminum with nonstick coating. The nonstick coating helps make clean up a breeze. Check the grooves on the pan to be sure they are well defined, a must for appealing grill marks.

* Remember the holidays: Getting married often means starting to host family gatherings for the holidays. Give some thought to what equipment you will need to create favorite family recipes and traditional dishes. A generously sized roasting pan is essential for cooking turkey, ham or a standing rib roast. Family size 5-quart saute pans and larger size saucier pans are practical for making vegetable side dishes, risotto and casseroles for a full table of guests. Well-established cookware brands, such as Anolon Advanced offer an extensive range of large open stock pots and pans to build a collection that's tailor made for entertaining. One of the most versatile items offered is the Ultimate 12-inch Covered Pan, featuring sloped high sides that allow for fast rotating or stirring of a copious amount of ingredients.

Don't forget dessert! The holidays wouldn't be the same without festive cookies, pies, cakes and sweet breads made from recipes passed down from generation to generation. Register for full and half cookie sheets, jelly roll pans, round and square cake pans, rectangular bakers, and loaf pans. If you're a traditionalist, choose light-colored metal pans that you can use greased or covered with a stick-resistant silicone pad or parchment paper. For the ultimate in convenience, choose heavy-gauge pans coated with high quality nonstick coatings to easily release foods every time. Supplement your bakeware choices with complementary gadgets and tools, such as an apple corer, cone strainer, flat and balloon whisks, and icing knife.

* Who's doing the dishes? Most likely, cleaning up after dinner is not high on the list of things you love to do. If getting out of the kitchen as fast as possible is a priority, select cookware that's completely dishwasher safe, such as Infinite Circulon. This is the first hard-anodized nonstick cookware that is both dishwasher-safe and compatible with all types of cooktops, including glass and energy-efficient induction ranges. Keep in mind that cookware featuring an exterior of stainless steel, brushed aluminum or nonstick is sometimes dishwasher-safe, too. Check with your bridal consultant or the manufacturer's Web site to be sure.

* Quality cookware leads to years of culinary bliss: Now is the perfect time to make a commitment to each other that cooking will play a major role in your married life. Cooking offers so many benefits -- from engaging all your senses and teaching you teamwork, to soothing your spirits after a stressful day at work. Cooking inspires creativity and physically nurtures you in a way that's usually much more healthy and budget-friendly than restaurant meals and take out. To get the most out of your cookware, look for these features, found on better quality cookware:

- Durable materials that can withstand years of rigorous use. Stainless steel is a popular choice, along with hard-anodized aluminum, which is twice as hard as stainless steel.

- Fast and even-heating pans that prevent hot spots. Heavy gauge hard-anodized aluminum cookware is excellent in spreading heat quickly and evenly. If you like the pro-style look of stainless steel cookware, choose one with a core of aluminum or copper -- ideal heat conductors -- or more economically priced sets with a base that features a disk of copper or aluminum that's encapsulated in a protective layer of stainless steel.

- Snug fitting lids to lock-in heat and nutrients. You can choose from gleaming stainless steel lids that are oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, or tempered glass lids, which allow you to monitor the cooking process without lifting the cover. (Glass lids are often oven safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.)

- Comfortable handles that are securely attached to the pans. Cookware handles should be ergonomically designed, stay cool to the touch during stovetop cooking, and be attached to the pan with industrial-strength rivets. Anolon Advanced is popular for its signature SureGrip handles, which feature a combination of durable 18/10 stainless steel with silicone rubber for a soft, cool to the touch grip.

- Complete assortments with convenient sets and open stock options. Registering for sets and open stock makes it easier for guests to purchase a gift that works within their budget. Some brands offer greater value in the composition of their sets, offering more commonly used skillets, saucepans and stockpots that are perfect for furnishing a new kitchen. Since you'll likely be building on your cookware collection over the years, look for trusted brands that have longevity -- such as Circulon, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

For more information on recommended cookware collections

for bridal registries, visit the following Web sites: www.circulon.com, www.anolon.com, www.kitchenaidcookware.com and www.farberwarecookware.com.

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Press-Release: Non-Diamond Engagement Rings Gain Popularity in Fragile Economy

2009-03-19T00:15:00.002-04:00

Portland, Maine, March 19, 2009.

Even in this tight economy, people are still getting engaged. But these days, couples are looking for value and timelessness, and it has become tacky to flaunt “bling.” As a result, non-diamond engagement rings are gaining popularity.

Turtle Love Committee is an online jeweler that has embraced that back-to-basics approach. The Portland-based company focuses exclusively on non-diamond engagement rings and wedding bands at prices between $100 and $200. “Orders are coming in from all over the country,” says Adrianne Zahner, the company’s founder. The Turtle Love Committee collection includes a wide range of styles, all in sterling silver: there are vintage replicas, classic solitaires, organic designs and modern pieces.

Non-diamond engagement rings are not a new phenomenon. Johanna Farrell of Bellingham, Washington, has worn a garnet solitaire much like ones in the Turtle Love Committee collection since she and her husband became engaged in 1978. She says she loves her ring “because it is a reflection of who we are as a couple. I like knowing that my husband and I put creative thought into the ring I’d wear for the rest of my life.”

Other jewelers have also reported an increase in sales of non-diamond engagement rings. Nina Dinoff, a New York jeweler, has been selling rings from her accessories collection to couples who plan to wear them as engagement and wedding rings. “I asked one client if he’d like me to use diamonds instead of small gold balls in the setting, and he said no, his fiancée would love it just the way I’d designed it,” Dinoff marveled.

Turtle Love Committee was founded last year by Zahner, 29, an attorney who was alarmed by her colleagues’ subtle competition to have the best or the biggest diamond engagement ring. She chose the name “Turtle Love Committee” because she liked the “TLC” acronym and the imagery of a group of wise elders dedicated to promoting love. According to Zahner, an engagement ring from Turtle Love Committee’s collection “is priceless - it represents a huge emotional commitment, not a huge financial commitment.”

For more information about non-diamond engagement and wedding rings, visit Turtle Love Committee online at www.TurtleLoveCommittee.com.

CONTACT:
Adrianne Zahner * Turtle Love Committee * 207.669.4062 office * 207.332.1088 mobile
adrianne@turtlelovecommittee.com * www.TurtleLoveCommittee.com

Classic Style Trumps Trends for a Wedding You’ll Still Love in 20 Years

2009-03-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

Classic Style Trumps Trends for a Wedding You’ll Still Love in 20 Years

(ARA) – Wedding album, videos and a carefully preserved gown -- your wedding mementoes are meant to be precious reminders of your special day. But you may find yourself cringing with shame when you look at your album years down the road if you choose trendy over traditional style for the look of your wedding.

It’s easy to tell the difference between a look that’s trendy and a more classic style. Think of the bell bottoms and love beads from the ‘70s and big hair and “Dynasty”-style gowns of the ‘80s -- looks that were “hot” at one time, but that years later elicit an eye-roll and a “what was I thinking” attitude from women who wore them.

Now consider the elegance, grace and demure femininity of icons like Grace Kelly, Ingrid Bergman and Audrey Hepburn. Their style was classic and timeless -- and one that today’s smart bride mimics to ensure she’ll love the look of her wedding as much in 20 years as she does the day she walks down the aisle.

Today’s bride knows that choosing fabrics, silhouettes and accessories borrowed from the classic era -- the 1940s through the 1960s -- will give her wedding and gown timeless appeal. No dated looks from easy-to-identify fashion fads for her. The classic look also plays well with the growing trend to achieve less with more by accenting the basics with luxurious finishing touches.

Here’s how to achieve that classic look for your spring wedding:

The Dress

Avoid large, modern swags of fabrics in favor of silhouettes that emphasize an hourglass figure. Nipped-in waists, or waistlines defined with belts and sashes, often in a color that slightly contrasts with the dress, create an elegant, eternal style. You can draw your classic style from the ‘40s, ‘50s and even ‘60s.

Designers offer charming gowns that evoke the look of 1950s prom dresses with fitted bodices and full skirts in tulle, lace and appliqué. For a 1960s look, a shorter, sophisticated frock with a gathered waist and narrow skirt will be reminiscent of the classic ‘60s cocktail dress.

The Accessories

A veil is essential for classic bridal style, and birdcage veils with large netting that falls at cheekbone length epitomize the look. These simple veils frame the bride’s glowing face and highlight special jewelry. Ladylike wrist-length gloves are the perfect complement to vintage bridal looks.

The classic bridal look is a perfect match with a simple and elegant pair of pearl stud earrings and a lustrous 16-inch strand of cultured pearls around the bride’s neck. Pearls have long been associated with the essence of sophisticated womanhood in American pop culture.

“The Hindu Lord Krishna is said to have offered pearls to his daughter as a wedding gift, which is where pearls and weddings were first married,” says Jeremy Shepherd of PearlParadise.com, the world’s largest online pearl company. “Pearls are considered a symbol of purity, making them the perfect fit with a bride’s white dress.”

Shepherd recommends white akoya pearls, a saltwater pearl that grows primarily in the coastal areas of Japan and China. Considered to be the classic pearls for jewelry, akoya pearls are prized for their perfect round shape, mirror-like luster and soft, neutral colors.

Visit www.PearlParadise.com for more ideas and classic bridal pearls.

The Look

Tie a classic dress and accessories together with a polished hairstyle such as a bun or chignon and keep makeup understated. Dark brown or black eyeliner extended slightly past the end of the eyelid, a touch of black mascara and a shade of red lipstick perfectly matched to the bride’s complexion are all that’s necessary to complete the perfect, classic Hollywood face.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Plan for the Wedding and for Life in any Economy

2009-03-13T00:27:00.005-04:00

Plan for the Wedding and for Life in any Economy

(ARA) – Planning for a wedding can be tough, especially when money is tight. But as you make your way through the mile-long checklist of things for the big day, have you thought about life after the wedding? Whether this is your first or second wedding, your dream wedding or a spontaneous ceremony, the financial implications of sharing a lifetime with another person last long after the "I do's."

To ensure happiness and financial security in any economy, you should be thinking about your financial future today. And, the good news is that taking the necessary steps to a sound financial future is not as complicated as you might think. Here are some things to discuss as a couple, as suggested by financial experts at SBLI USA Mutual Life Insurance Company, Inc:

1) Come up with a Budget

You may have your own budget, but now you are planning income and expenses for two. If you combine your income and expenses, you will need to combine your budgets as well.

Be prudent with your spending. Write down everything each of you spends per month and cut back on non-essentials. Take into account housing, food, utilities and transportation, as well as student loans, credit card balances, car payments, taxes and if applicable, alimony and child support. For further tips on creating a sustainable budget read “Become Your Own Financial Advisor: Tips on Planning a Budget and Sticking to It” at www.sbliusa.com.

2) Begin an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund helps ensure that you and your partner are secure should something happen, such as a job loss or serious health issue. You should agree on how much you want to save for a "rainy day." It's a smart idea to save between 5 and 10 percent of your salary in a joint savings account. To avoid the temptation to spend your savings, consider having the money automatically transferred from your checking accounts. Aim to save 3 to 6 months of living expenses.

3) Purchase Life Insurance

According to a study conducted by LIMRA International 48 million Americans either, don’t own life insurance and believe they should, or own life insurance and believe they need more. Purchasing life insurance will give you the peace of mind of knowing your loved ones will have money to help maintain their standard of living should anything happen to you. To access a variety of financial information and tools, as well as to learn more about life insurance and get a free quote, speak with the experts at SBLI USA.

4) Create a Plan for the Future

Take the time to create a written financial plan with clear goals. The plan should include specific and realistic steps to achieve your dreams, including buying a home, starting a family, taking vacations and retirement. Decide what additional investments you’d like to make apart from your regular savings such as maximizing your 401(k) or IRA contributions.

Using financial planning software, such as Quicken, can help with keeping track of your expenses and investments. Decide what your tax filing status will be for the year. Make sure you consider the difference between married filing separate versus joint filing, based upon your particular circumstances. Consult your tax advisor if you are unsure.

5) Pay Down Debt

Credit card debt is the number one obstacle to a secure financial future, and knowing both of your credit scores is essential. You’re allowed one free credit check annually with each of the major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. Order reports and go through and correct any inaccuracies. This will help you both get a loan at a lower rate when it comes time to borrow money for a house, car or other major purchase.

Getting married is an opportunity to get a fresh start on your financial well being. These types of wealth-building efforts are extremely beneficial, and create a solid foundation to a long, happy marriage.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Groom's Tireless Search For 'Something Old' Gives His Bride New Joy

2009-03-08T22:32:00.003-04:00

Groom's Tireless Search For 'Something Old' Gives His Bride New Joy

(ARA) - Lt. Greg Martin wanted to give his fiancee the storybook wedding of her dreams. But he had a slight problem. She was in California planning their big day while he was on the other side of the world, stationed in Iraq. Being so far away made it even more difficult for him to hear the disappointment in her voice when she told him she couldn’t find something she had her heart set on for their big day.

"Years ago, my fiancee Shannon saw this cake topper she really liked in a department store that she thought would be perfect for her wedding day," says Martin. "It’s called ‘Swept Away’, and after I proposed Shannon remembered it and said the name was so fitting because I swept her away."

Unfortunately, the manufacturer of the topper, Lenox China, had discontinued it. Martin’s fiancee and her mother searched numerous stores and even got into bidding wars online, but couldn’t find the treasured piece. Martin started his own Internet search which led him to Replacements, Ltd., touted as the world’s largest supplier of old and new china, silver, crystal and collectibles. Unfortunately, Replacements had sold out of the cake topper as well. Little did a disappointed Martin know, his search had far from ended.

"My entire team was so touched by Greg’s story, how he was away serving our country and wanted so much to surprise his fiancee that we made it our mission to find that cake topper," says Martha Newman, Internet services manager for Replacements, Ltd.

Replacements has long helped those like Martin looking for patterns that are no longer in production. In fact, the company’s bridal registry offers hope to those brides looking to complete heirloom patterns lovingly passed down as wedding gifts from generation to generation.

"Even though we sell active patterns, nearly 79 percent of our bridal registry sales are generated from discontinued and heirloom patterns," says Donna Braswell-Bray, who oversees Replacements’ bridal program. "We’re one of the few places brides can turn to in finding patterns that are no longer being made, whether the manufacturer discontinued them last year or over a hundred years ago. In fact most manufacturers and department stores even refer customers to us for patterns they no longer carry."

What’s more, if a bride doesn’t know the pattern name or who made it, Replacements research department will help track down that information through the company’s free pattern identification service. Replacements receives up to 3,000 requests weekly from people looking to identify patterns they’ve inherited or whose name they simply can’t remember.

As for Martin’s dilemma, Replacements’ buying services team launched a nationwide search and finally found the highly sought after cake topper.

"Many of us were in tears, we were clapping and just so overwhelmed," says Newman. "We were so excited to let him know we were able to make this wish come true."

Replacements shipped the cake topper directly to Martin’s fiancee, and he called her so they could open it together over the phone. “I wish I could have been there to see her reaction and her big smile,” says Martin. "Needless to say Shannon was stunned and very excited to get the cake topper she wanted so much. I can’t believe they were able to help me find exactly what she wanted to make our wedding day perfect!"

To learn more about the company’s bridal registry and free pattern identification service, visit www.replacements.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent