Wedding Photography That Preserves Intimate Memories Across a Lifetime!

The infinite developments of technology have not lessened feelings and emotions connected with photographs. The family album commands the same respect it did a hundred years ago. The same may be said of the future. Relationships are forever and some are more important than the others.

Artificiality fills our lives though we would wish to cuddle up to nature, especially now with all the dangers to the planet. Images and videos are some of them and social media each day exchanges millions. Such is the obsession with images and the moving ones at the expense of static language and text. For the special occasion of a lifetime that is coming up and is not so far away, decide upon a Wedding Photography package.

Catering to Metropolitan Melbourne, Greater Victoria and South Australia

Operating from South Yarra, they would conveniently find you or you will find them. Either way, it is a profound partnership that explores the tender happenings on that sacred occasion. They have been covering wedding occasions actively in the region and built up a stunning portfolio. Access a few of those starry tales and get an idea of what the personal love story would look and feel like. Lost in private dreams, it is an occasion worthy to be recorded in digital formats that will not be lost in time. Meeting and discussing is the first step to get into the swing of it and make the plans final. Consultations in the studio ambience are free of cost.

A stressed out time to dream big

While too many wedding day arrangements need to be carried out, pulling in different directions, a noble dream pervades them all. It is the spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie, the birth of a new generation in good time and love and romance fill the air. A mighty energy descends and inspires everyone who is remotely connected like the families and friends that get together to breathe blessings and joys upon the blessed couple.

Wedding Photography in large numbers of images to enter albums and creative enlargements on the wall and digital versions exchanged over social media to a global togetherness. So much is going to happen but not just yet. Greater than the technology that makes so much possible, it is the coming together of the two hearts and souls that will unite for an eternity.

The professionals with their bag of tricks will achieve the best images and the touching up and editing, the dream effects and the tinting, the highlighting and the borders, the captions and so much more. While a hundred smartphones would click and capture stills and videos, the professionals will run the extra mile. Arranging lighting and scenes, they will capture the perfect shots of the candid couple in their intimate moments and the family groups that will endure through the decades of memories and the coming back to them during the vacations and reunions.

Prices are quite affordable

After consultations that decide upon one or two photo shoot locations and an itinerary, unlimited images for 6 hours of shots cost $1450. Further, one 24 X 16 inch photo enlargement is provided and high resolution shots on USB. The bride's preparations are recorded along with the wedding ceremony and a family photo shoot. While that is the basic order for photography, larger durations and more facilities are available along with videography packages for those who wish to get both versions.

Photographs tell the stunning truth always!

The wheel of time will never stop turning and the months and years will roll by. Many things change and yet some don't, like the sun and the moon. Amidst all the drama and the changes, the photographs will remain solid as a rock to counter all the transformations. Those sweet memories in the images will continue, just like great works of art and sculpture that need to be carefully preserved. The family album will also be taken good care of, to protect against the ravages of time.

Open up to the expert photographers and tell them a few secrets so that they can get at the inner core of the love affair and the ceremonies as if they were shooting a film. Most films are unreal depictions while here is something quite real and true to fact. Books and movies often tell about characters that never existed and here is a true love tale, the greatest ever. Wedding Photography will honor all the promises.

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How To Be Safe On Matrimonial Websites

Marriage is a lifetime commitment; therefore, one needs to be very careful while taking such decision. Finding the right life partner is easier said than wedding done, but now with a number of matrimonial sites live on the internet the task become simpler than before. But, these matrimonial sites are open to a number of people, thus, to keep yourself safe or secure, you need to keep following tips on your mind. Have a look at them to be on the safe side.

• Go For The Verified Profiles: One of the easiest ways to keep yourself safe on the matrimonial website is by choosing the verified profiles that ensure you are meeting the right person. It'll minimize your risk of falling into a fake trap. It's a lifetime affair, thus, going some extra mile is not a problem at all.
• Don't Do Over Writing: While creating your profile on a matrimonial site, you have to be honest, it not only wedding keep you away from any trap, but also make it easier for you to find the right match with whom your compatible match.
• Check The Recent Photographs: Make sure the photo you may see on the profile is recent and not the old one, as it minimizes your risk of getting betrayed. Also, it'll help you meet the real person, you are dreaming of.
• Check All The Details: To be on the safe side, you should pay attention to every single detail you see on the profile, as it may save you from a scam or help you find the right match to spend your whole life with.
• Be Very Careful Before Going For The Date: When you get convinced that this is the person, you want to go further with; you should still take some precautions on your date to prevent any wrong fall. Try to go and meet only in public places that too only when you feel comfortable.

Finding the right match online through matrimonial sites is not, as tough as, it seems, just you need to be a bit careful or more attentive to keep yourself safe. Make sure the marriage Bureau you go or matrimonial site you sign up for provide good security and take care of your privacy. So, what are you waiting for? Register yourself on a good matrimonial site and be ready to find the perfect companion. Don't take any decision in a hurry, it's about your life, so, you should give it some time and attention it requires.

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Gearing Up for Spring and Summer Weddings

Hooray! It is officially spring and now we have all of those gorgeous spring and summer wedding to look forward too. Highly creative wedding caterers and florists in Mornington Peninsula are gearing up for another two seasons of fabulous weddings.

What is the Best Day of Your Life Really About?

There are a lot of things to work out for a wedding, the guestlist, venue and how to navigate your way through all of the opinions on colour palette, dress style and all of the other little details. We have all seen the horrors of a day gone wrong. But here's the bottom line, it's your day, you're a grown up and you should be able to do what you want.

Pulling it Together With a Wedding Planner

When it comes to the big day, the devil, as they say, is in the details and what you really want is someone you can rely on to look after them. Someone who is going to do exactly what you want and will give an opinion when you ask for it. That's what a wedding coordinator from Mornington Peninsula can do for you.

What Wedding Coordinators Don't Do

A wedding coordinator is there to make your big day a success, so if you want to get married on the rolling hills of Yarra Glen with all the trappings they will make that happen. What they will avoid is arguing with you, sulking when they don't get their own way or telling anyone else you made the wrong decisions.

What They Do

A wedding coordinator for your Mornington Peninsula event can help you just as you need. Whether you want help on the day in making things run smoothly and getting everyone where they need to be, or you'd like someone who really knows how to pull off an extra special day or weekend of events.

There are a lot of people to coordinate, the venue, the caterers, the car hire people and the florist in Mornington Peninsula you've chosen. And don't forget helping the guests and their hotels, the hairdressers and makeup people for the bridal party. Oh, and where is the string quartet and the DJ? Getting all of the pieces and parts to happen in the right order at the right time is quite the skill.

A wedding coordinator has done all of it before, and they know where the pitfalls are and which elements are most likely to cause a hiccup.

Well Connected

One of the great things about working with a coordinator is they are connected in the industry in ways you aren't. They have worked with the car hire companies and everyone else plus they have connections with the venues. They know people and their reputation in a way you can't, only because you don't do this every day. You can trust your coordinator to bring in the right connections when it comes to pulling your day together.

The effect is to pull the stress from your shoulders so you can relax - well at least focus on the special things of the day.

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30 Day Wedding Diet Plan

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day. A 30-day detox diet is perfect for a bride who wants to shed 10-15 pounds and cleanse her body. A detox diet will improve the look of your skin, hair and nails, while helping your lose weight. A 30-day diet will leave you feeling confident and looking great as you walk down the aisle.

Choose a reputable, 30-day diet plan.

Try a colon cleansing diet. Toxins and waste products that are built up in your colon cause weight gain, bloating and acne problems. In addition, you will find that after using a colon cleansing diet program, your hair and nails will be more radiant, strong and healthy.

Get other diet plans in ebook form. Several 30-day diets are available online in ebook form. For a low purchase price, you can download the ebooks, which provide diet plans, tips and techniques for losing weight in thirty days. These are not fasting diets, but rather healthy diet programs for people with under 10 pounds to lose.

Consider getting a colonic. If you are very bloated, you may need to have a colon wash, where warm filtered water is infused into your rectum to clean your colon. Some people have many pounds of waste stuck in their colon. A colon wash is the quickest way to rid your body of the toxic waste and start to detoxify your body.

Exercise regularly while dieting. You can speed weight loss and tone your muscles by starting a circuit training exercise program. Circuit training combines cardiovascular exercise, such a running on a treadmill, will free weight training.

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Cleansing Diet Before Wedding

A cleansing diet can help you lose weight and improve the appearance of your skin, hair and nails. Many women go on a cleansing diet a few weeks before their wedding day to prepare themselves for the biggest day in their lives. A cleansing diet cleans your body of wastes and toxins that build up in your digestive system. Some people have up to 25 pounds of accumulated waste in their colon, which leads to bloating, weight gain and other health issues.

Choose a cleansing diet by researching on the Internet and then deciding which type of diet is for you. If you normally eat a fairly healthy diet and do not need to lose much weight, you may be able to just add psyllium to your diet for cleansing. Add two tablespoons of psyllium to 12 ounces of water and drink with meals twice a day. The natural fiber of psyllium will work in your colon to remove build-up of toxins and waste.

Select the Master Cleanser Diet, sometimes known as the Lemonade Diet, if you need to lose weight quickly. A popular diet among Hollywood celebrities who are preparing for a film or television appearance, the Master Cleanser Diet is extreme, yet safe if done properly. The diet plan combines three unusual ingredients, lemon juice, grade B maple syrup and cayenne pepper, to detoxify your system.

Mix two tablespoons of lemon juice, two tablespoons of maple syrup and two pinches of cayenne pepper into 12-16 ounces of purified water. Drink this combination throughout the day whenever you are thirsty or hungry. Do not eat any other food. Follow this diet for 3-7 days for maximum results. It is best to do this diet about two weeks before your wedding. After finishing the diet, eat healthy leading up to your wedding date. Try to eat organic foods, no sugar or white flour, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Go on a diet of pure vegetable juice, if the Master Cleansing Diet is too strict for you. Combine organic lettuce, cucumbers, celery, carrots and spinach in a blender with purified water. Drink this blended drink whenever you feel hungry throughout the day. Also make sure to drink 60 additional ounces of water daily. This diet can be used for up to 14 days before your wedding.

Tips & Warnings

Add 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise and 15 minutes of weight training to your daily routine while on a cleansing diet.
Take a multivitamin supplement daily when on a fasting or cleansing diet.
Consult a doctor before starting any type of diet.

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Wedding Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair

Brides-to-be with medium-length hair have many options when it comes to choosing a hairstyle for the big day. Shoulder-length hair offers enough length and versatility to experiment with updos, waves and curls. Because the options are so vast, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. Choose the right hairstyle to complement your dress, theme and personality, because the memories and photographs of your wedding day will last a lifetime.

Research
Start by looking at a broad selection of wedding hairstyles in bridal magazines, blogs and online resources to get a sense of what you like and don’t like. Tear out or print images of a few favorite hairstyles to help focus your thoughts. When looking at images, consider the texture of your hair. If it’s naturally very curly, a sleek, straightened style may not be your best option, because it’s unlikely to hold the shape all day and night. If you have straight hair that doesn’t hold curls well, a loose wavy style may not look perfectly coiffed after a few hours. If you’re having a beach wedding, something unstructured and loosely pinned up will suit the beach surroundings and keep your hair free from your neck. For a winter wonderland wedding, a chic, neatly pinned chignon at the nape of your neck will stay put better in winter conditions than a loose and tousled style.

Dress
Your wedding hairstyle should complement your dress rather than compete with it. If your dress is strapless and you don’t want to show off too much skin, a loose medium-length hairstyle that rests around your shoulders will balance out your look. Curling your hair will make it appear shorter. If you want to show off a daring backless bridal dress, try pulling your hair into a loose chignon or side-swept ponytail to draw attention to the back of your gown.

Headpieces
If you plan to wear a veil, tiara or embellished hair pin, you’ll need to consider this before choosing a style. Combs and barrettes have better styling power in curly or wavy hair, because the texture helps the accessory hold better. If your medium hair is fine or straight, opt for headband-style accessories instead.

Rehearsal
It’s essential to have a mock tryout of the potential hairstyles before the wedding. You check that each hairdo suits you and also see how long it holds. Try to make your appointment in the morning so you can see how long the hairstyle will last through the day. Take several ideas and pictures to your stylist, who will be able to adjust the styles to suit your hair type and texture. Your stylist can also help you decide which one you'll go with for the big day.

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Easy Hair Updos with Instructions

Dressy events generally call for elegant hairdos. However, not every woman wants to spend time and money at a professional hair salon to have her hair done. Whether you're pressed for time or simply on a budget, you can bypass the hairstylist by creating your own stylish look at home with an updo.

Double Bun
Start by adding a little texture to your hair with root stimulator or similar styling product. This will enable your hair to hold the style better. Take a small section of hair near your forehead and pin it back with crossed bobby pins, creating a little pouf. Smooth down any flyaways with a spritz of hairspray.

Separate the rest of your hair into two sections, one layer on top and one underneath, using the top of your ear as the approximate dividing point. Twist the top section into a bun, pushing slightly upward to create some volume around the top, and secure with bobby pins. Repeat with the bottom layer, aligning the second bun underneath the first. You can pull out a few face-framing strands and curl them for a dressier look.

Loose Side Pouf
Blow out any bangs or face-framing strands. On one side of your head, twist any short layers back and behind your ear and secure with a bobby pin. Pull the rest of your hair to the opposite side of your head and secure it into a loose, low, side ponytail. Leave the ends of the ponytail in the rubber band, rather than pulling them all the way through, to create a messy knot. Above the rubber band, split the hair into two sections and flip the knot through the "hole." For a less formal look, tease the ends for volume. For a polished look, secure any loose ends with bobby pins.

High Ballerina Faux Bun
Pull all of your hair into a high ponytail at the top of your head. Use a boar-bristle brush and a little hairspray to create the smoothest look possible. Wrap a rubber band around the ponytail a few times, but on the last time, don't pull the ends all the way through; leave them so that they're facing forward on top of your head. Pull the ends forward slightly, creating a side bang, and smooth them with hairspray. On top, secure the sides of the faux bun with a few bobby pins and spray with hairspray to hold.

Tips
Work with second-day hair instead of freshly washed and dried hair for a better hold. The natural oil in your hair helps to hold the hairstyle, especially if your hair is fine. Also, a flexible-hold hairspray works great for smoothing the style and keeping stray hairs down without leaving your hair stiff.

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Punjabi Bridal Hairstyle Ideas

The bride’s hairstyle didn't always have such an importance in Punjabi weddings. Now, however, a hairstyle for the bride plays as important of a role as the rest of the wedding details. Whether up, down, formal or relaxed, a Punjabi bride has several different hairstyle options from which to choose.

Traditional Style
If your wedding is traditional, you may wish to coordinate your hairstyle in a more traditional way as well. Traditionally, Punjabi brides wear their hair in upsweeps or styled in a bun. This allows access to the neck for when the groom ties the necklace around the bride’s neck as a symbol of their union.

Loose Style
Punjabi wedding festivities can last days on end, so you may want to opt for hairstyle that is loose rather than tight. Hairstyles that are pulled tight or require bobby pins or other items to keep it in place may bother you after a few hours and may even cause a headache.

Parted Styles
Another more traditional hairstyle to consider is one with a part that goes down the middle of the head. Many Punjabi brides wear a jewel that hangs on the forehead as an accessory, middle parts--whether hair is up or down--accentuates this area of the forehead.

Hair Decorations
Many Punjabi brides add decorations to adorn their hair. Some common choices for Punjabi brides include hair sequins or hair beads. Typically, these are spread throughout the hair and are in colors that coordinate with the bride’s dress.

Tips
You may want to practice your hairstyle leading up to the wedding, so you can make adjustments to the style if needed and ensure you choose a hairstyle that works well with your outfit.

Punjabi brides wear a veil during the beginning of the ceremony, so you’ll want to account for the veil when choosing a hairstyle and hair adornments.

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Side Updo Wedding Hairstyles

Every bride wants to look spectacular on her special day. What better way to enhance the beauty of the bride-to-be than to create a one-of-a-kind updo hairstyle to enhance her face and dress. Creating a signature style by pinning the hair up and placing accessories to the side does just that, and has many modifications for brides of varying tastes.

Elegant Beading Updos
For class and elegance on a bride's special day, a classic style is sweeping hair to one side of the face, pinning at the ear, and attaching with white pearls or beads. The hair can be barreled with a large curling iron and pinned upward with a string of small beads or pearls intertwined to give a soft look. Alternatively, pearls strung over the crown of the hair and pinned to a curl or braid lends height and femininity to the face.


Flowers of the Hair and Heart
Wedding flowers are not only for the decor of the ceremony, reception, and bridal bouquet, but can be an original accessory when placed in the hair. Orchids, roses, or even a lily placed strategically in the hair, then pinned up to one side, adds a charm and loveliness to the wedding ensemble. A French roll, standard bun, or a sleek ponytail decorated with a flower or tiny sprig of baby's-breath can be tucked together neatly with a pearl comb. To add fullness to the style, hair extensions can be inserted and styled. Extensions can be added for temporary color boosts with lowlighted or highlighted strands such as blond or burgundy, then blended with complementary colored florals.

Feathers in the Wind
Inventing diversity and inimitable styles works well for brides who are nontraditional and opt for an extra "pop" in their creation. Pinning feathers around a chignon or a French braid is an uncommon option for a look with flare. A tight upswept set of curls or pin curls would enhance an otherwise basic look by inserting a feather in the style using colorless pins or barrettes to secure the wispy bang or side-gathered hairstyle. White feathers outlining the face give an airy whimsical touch and work well with weddings that feature snow-white doves or outdoor ceremonies.

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Hairdo Ideas for Mothers of Bride

As the Mother of the Bride, your job is to make your daughter the center of attention. Choose a hair style that is simple, yet elegant. Whether you leave your hair down or pin it up, choose a style that will stay in place throughout the night.

Curls
For a simple and easy style, just add curls. Whether long or short, curly hair can be left down or pinned loosely back for an elegant and classic look.

French Twist
The French Twist is a classic updo that features the hair twisted and pinned up along the back of the head. The French Twist can be dressed up with hair pins, pearls, curls, and flowers.

Chignon
A chignon is a soft bun pinned loosely at the nape of the neck. This style highlights the face, neck, and shoulders and provides an excellent canvas for jewelry.

Half Up
For a simple style, pull your hair half up and pin in the back with a decorative clip. Add a loose curl for added elegance and pull out small tendrils around your ears to soften the look.

Curly Updo
Create soft curls and waves all over the head, then gather them all back and pink them up into a soft bun at the back of the head. The key to this style is keeping it simple and understated; the bride's hair should be the most elegant.

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Hairstyles for Wedding Dinner

As weddings become increasingly expensive, brides and grooms continue to look for ways to save money. Do-it-yourself wedding options abound, from designing invitations to creating flower arrangements and even making the wedding gown. One of the easiest ways to save money while planning for the big day is to do your own hair for the wedding dinner. Wedding dinner hairstyles can range from simple to elaborate, and even those who are not accustomed to styling their hair for formal events can still create a beautiful and sophisticated style for the event.

Old Hollywood Glamour
Wash hair, apply preferred styling agent, and blow it dry (but not too dry).

 Jessica Chastain
Using a comb, create a side part that highlights your face well. (This varies by person: in some cases, the most flattering side part is closer to the middle, while in others the most flattering side part is further to the side.)

Roll the top part of your hair (at the top of your head) in a curling iron, taking care not to hold the hair in the iron for more than a few seconds.

 Rachel McAdams
Place the bottom part of your hair in hot rollers for a few minutes.

Release the rollers, and spray hair lightly with hair spray, brushing gently as you go. This will produce soft and sophisticated curls.

 Amanda Seyfried
“Down-do” with Light Curls
Wash hair, apply preferred styling product, and blow it dry with the diffuser attached.

 Megan Fox
Roll pieces of hair with the curling iron held almost vertically, and hold hair in the curling iron for a few seconds. This will create a soft wave.

 Beyoncé Knowles
Spray hair lightly with hair spray to hold the curls.

 Sienna Miller
Loose Chignon
Add a small amount of preferred styling product to hair that is slightly damp and blow it dry with the diffuser attached.

 Rebecca Romijn wearing loose chignon
Once hair is dry, add a small amount of styling product again and scrunch hair lightly with hands

 Jennifer Lawrence
Pull the hair loosely into a small bun at the nape of your neck and add a few hair pins to hold it.

 Carly Craig
Gently pull and lightly tease the top portion of the hair to loosen it even further. This will create the illusion of extra body from the front.

 Nicole Kidman
.

 Denise Van Outen wearing loose chignon
French Twist
Pull your dry hair into a loose ponytail and begin rotating the ponytail either clockwise or counter-clockwise. (This depends largely on which hand is dominant.)

 Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio
Rotate the hair until the ponytail is essentially upside down, with the bottom tip of your hair facing the ceiling.

Turn the bottom of the ponytail under, tucking it into the roll that you have created. Be sure to press the hair in gently but firmly to ensure that fly-away hair does not get out.

Add hair pins to the roll that you have created, inserting carefully to keep the roll in place. Be sure to secure the French twist well, but do not overdo the hair pins, as too many can cause a headache.

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Mardi Gras Wedding Reception

While most couples prefer to keep traditional aspects in their wedding, some prefer unconventionally themed weddings and receptions. A Mardi Gras theme is a clever, creative and fun way to jazz up your reception, and there are many ways to incorporate the theme but still maintain the elegance and beauty of a customary wedding.

Color Scheme
The standard colors for the yearly Mardi Gras celebration are green, purple and gold. Choosing the shades of colors is up to the bride and groom, and they may want to take the season into account. Deeper, darker colors look classy in an autumn or winter wedding, while brighter shades are more appropriate for a summer or spring celebration. All three of these colors are strong, so in order to avoid an overwhelming color scheme, brides and grooms may want to consider using one as a primary color and the others as accents.

Attire
Classic black tuxedos are perfect for a Mardi Gras wedding, especially if accent colors are incorporated. Give the groomsmen gold ties or vests in green and purple Mardi Gras harlequin patterns. The old Southern feel of Mardi Gras can be incorporated by using tops hats or tightly fitted tuxedo jackets with tails.

Both knee-length dresses and full-length gowns work nicely for bridesmaids' outfits in a Mardi Gras wedding. Bridesmaids' dresses should be in one of the wedding colors, with accents of the other colors. Green dresses with purple bouquets of flowers or purple dresses with gold beading are lovely and festive options.

Food
Food at a Mardi Gras wedding should reflect Cajun, Creole and New Orleans culture. New Orleans food tends to be spicy and flavorful. Seafood, especially shellfish such as crawfish and shrimp, is used frequently in Cajun cooking, and so is andouille sausage. Some examples of popular New Orleans dishes include jambalaya, gumbo and red beans and rice. The choice between having a sit down dinner or a buffet at the reception is at the discretion of the couple, though both options would work well with the theme.

The famous Mardi Gras tradition of king cake can be incorporated as the wedding cake. King cakes are colorful, festive cakes traditionally served at Mardi Gras celebrations. A small plastic figurine of a baby is hidden somewhere in the batter and then cooked inside the cake. Whoever receives the slice with the plastic baby will have good luck for the rest of the year.

Decorations
Mardi Gras is full of lights, party floats, beads and performers. Couples can be creative when planning decorations for a Mardi Gras-themed wedding. Try using traditional decorations and centerpieces, but incorporate things such as gold beads or feathered masks. For more adventurous decorating, rent Mardi Gras-style floats, or use Mardi Gras scene-setters on the walls. Jazz music is an important aspect of New Orleans culture, and it can be incorporated into Mardi Gras wedding decorations. Try making or ordering life-size silhouettes of jazz musicians. These stands, painted in all black, add an artistic element to Mardi Gras decorations.

Other Ideas
Mardi Gras is primarily a parade, and the bride and groom can throw their own parade at the wedding. Instead of having the bridal party do the traditional slow walk down the aisle, everyone can parade down together and toss colorful beads to the guests. Or all wedding guests could participate in a similar parade from the wedding site to the reception location. When planning a Mardi Gras wedding, be creative, have fun and as they say in New Orleans, "Laissez les bons temps roulez" or "Let the good times roll."

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Free Checklist for Backyard Wedding

You need to make sure a number of things get planned and done for every wedding, from booking a space to hiring an officiant. While holding a wedding in your backyard may seem like it will eliminate a lot of headaches and planning, you will need to concern yourself with a few particulars exclusive to backyard weddings.

Clean Up the Yard
Your backyard may be perfectly suitable for the occasional barbecue or picnic, but it may not be wedding-ready. A few months before the big day, look at the yard. If it's rocky or uneven, has large dirt patches or areas of dying or unkempt grass, take steps to clean it up. Plant grass seed or lay sod. If you aren't the yard-work type, enlist the help of a professional landscaper. Keep the lawn mowed and weeds in check in the weeks up to the wedding. The week or a few days before the wedding, do a last-minute sweep of the yard, trimming any unruly bushes or garden plants. Hide any outdoor equipment, from your lawn chairs to your grill.

Plan for the Weather
An April wedding may seem ideal to you, but it may also be the perfect time for rain. An outdoor wedding in the middle of the summer may be too hot for most guests to bear. Pick a date with the usual weather patterns of your area in mind. You can plan around them, if you are dead set on a particular month. For instance, a heated or cooled tent will keep guests comfortable through hot, rainy or chilly weather.

Figure Out Parking and Permits
Depending on where you live, you may need a permit to host a large party in your yard. At the very least, you need to let your neighbors know so that they don't complain at the noise or decide that your wedding day is the perfect day to catch up on their yard work. Parking is another concern. You may need to hire a valet company to handle the cars or arrange for a shuttle bus to pick guests up from a pre-determined spot.

Get the Right Equipment
You'll need to figure out what sort of equipment you need for the wedding. If you plan on having a DJ or band, you may need to rent a generator to power the speakers and instruments. Generators have a reputation for being loud, smelly things, so you need to keep that in mind as well. You could also attempt to power the equipment through an extension cord. Chairs for the ceremony and tables for the reception are another thing you may need to rent. Think about how you will light the wedding if it goes after dusk.

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Outdoor Places for Weddings Near O'Fallon, Illinois

O'Fallon, Illinois is a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri, a 20-mile trip to the west on Interstate 64. If you are planning a wedding in this area, there are four choices for outdoor ceremonies both in and around the city. Hold your outdoor ceremony in the late spring to early fall range to take advantage of the warmest months of the year in O'Fallon.

The Regency Conference Center
The Regency Conference Center in O'Fallon offers both indoor and outdoor wedding options, so if rain becomes an issue, you won't have to worry. The center is on the shores of a 6-acre lake that includes fountains. An outdoor pergola serves as a ceremony location and the garden piazza holds receptions or serves as a waiting area before the wedding begins. Outside food, other than a wedding cake, is forbidden, but the center has a catering facility with an extensive menu from which to choose. Included with the center's wedding package is lighting for the head and cake table, cake cutting and serving and a bridal party dressing room.

The Larimore House Plantation
The Larimore House Plantation in St. Louis is one of the largest plantations in the Midwest. This landmark property is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Either hold your ceremony outdoors in the garden or in the historic wedding chapel and then head outdoors for the reception. There is seating for up to 250 guests. One of the plantation's co-owners serves as the wedding coordinator to assist the parties in customizing the event.

The Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis encompasses 79 acres of horticultural displays available for special event rentals including weddings. Hold your wedding in the Blanke Boxwood Garden, Chinese Garden, Gladney Rose Garden, Japanese Garden or the Lehmann Rose Garden. The Chinese Garden is ideal for an intimate ceremony, with standing room for 25 guests. The Japanese Garden offers the most space, with seating for up to 200 people. You must order all food from Catering St. Louis, the garden's exclusive party planner.

Crystal Garden Banquet and Event Center
Crystal Garden Banquet and Event Center is in Edwardsville, Illinois, to the north of St. Louis. Hold your wedding in the facility's private garden, which seats more than 400 people. The gardens include a pergola for the ceremony, a fish pond and waterfalls. Two large interior rooms are available for holding the reception. The on-site catering facility offers several hundred menu items from which to choose.

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Wear to Afternoon Outdoor Wedding

Dress code etiquette for a wedding is usually stated on the invitation. Whether the wedding is outdoors or in, at a winery or a church, the dress code remains consistent with the invitation’s stated code, according to etiquette guru Emily Post. However, circumstances such as season, location and whether it’s the bride and groom or a guest who is wondering what to wear to an afternoon, an outdoor wedding at a winery can make a difference when selecting proper attire.

Invitation Dress Code
If you’ve been invited to a wedding – whatever the location and time – your first guide to proper attire is the code stated on the invitation. Emily Post suggests black tuxedos for men and formal gowns or “dressy cocktail dresses” for women who have been invited to a Black Tie wedding. Invitations that read “Formal” might imply “black tie optional” or “creative black tie.” In these cases, it is sometimes best to clarify the dress code with the bride or mother of the bride. “Semi-Formal” usually means a suit and tie for men and a cocktail dress or “dressy separates” for women. "Dressy Casual" denotes a sport coat and slacks, with or without a tie, for men and a dress or “dressy pants outfit” for women.

Season
A summer outdoor wedding might require a wedding guest to alter attire choices somewhat. A summertime wedding that is coded as “Formal” on the invitation usually requires that men wear a white dinner jacket in lieu of the black tuxedo jacket, according to Emily Post. For women attending a formal, afternoon summer wedding, choose a strappy cocktail dress and opt for comfortable sandals rather than stiletto heels. Semi-formal summer attire for men could include a seersucker or linen suit, and for women, a cool, loose silk skirt and dressy camisole top. Dressy casual attire could offer men the opportunity for a pair of khaki pants and polo shirt, while women could attend in loose, flowing pants or a sundress.

Bride’s Attire
Brides want their wedding dress to be special, regardless of wedding venue and season. An afternoon wedding at a winery, especially a summer wedding, might require a less formal approach to wedding gown selection. You should consider whether you will be in the open air or under a tent for your ceremony. A windy day, for example, could make a nuisance of that beautiful, trailing veil you’ve selected. If you do decide to opt for a simpler, more casual wedding dress, reflect that choice by marking your invitations with a matching dress code, so your guests can follow your lead. A simple gown, minus the train, could make your wedding day elegant and hassle-free. You don’t want your gown hanging up or ripping on a stick or stone as you walk down the aisle. Also, consider low, comfortable shoes. Outdoor terrain can be tricky.

Groom’s Attire
Traditionally, grooms tend to have it easier when it comes to selecting their wedding day attire. Most grooms take their cue from the bride and her choice of wedding dress when it comes to how formal their own clothing choice is. To complement the bride who is opting for a simpler gown – no train, and a headpiece or hat instead of a veil -- veer away from wearing a tuxedo. You can, however, make your semi-formal or dressy casual attire special by adding personal flair. Seersucker, linen or a light-colored suit could fit these dress codes perfectly. Consider mixing and matching your suit jacket and trousers for a unique statement.

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Fire & Ice Ideas for Wedding

The fire and ice theme for a wedding is a dramatic combination of two opposing elements of nature. The colors red and burgundy represent the element of fire while the colors white and silver represent the element of ice. These two opposing elements compliment one another and bring a sophisticated style to any wedding. By decorating with a specific palette of colors, a fire and ice wedding theme will be one to remember.

Red and Silver Apparel
Bridesmaids can choose between burgundy colored dresses and silver dresses. Whichever dress color they choose, they will have the opposing colored shawl. For instance, if a bridesmaid chooses to wear a burgundy dress, she will wear a silver-colored shawl. The groomsmen follow the same color scheme. They can choose between burgundy and silver cummerbunds and ties.

Fire and Ice Bouquets for the Bridesmaids
The bridesmaids' bouquets are a combination of red and white roses with Swarovski crystal bouquet jewelry put inside the roses. White crystal bouquet jewelry accents the red flowers, while burgundy bouquet jewelry accents the white flowers. For each bouquet of 12 flowers, the bridesmaid will have six pieces of Swarovski crystal bouquet jewelry.

Ring Bearer and Ring Bearer Pillow
The ring bearer pillow can be a combination of burgundy and silver. For instance, the pillow can be burgundy with a silver trim. The ring bearer can also wear either a burgundy or a silver colored tie, with a matching cummerbund.

The Flower Girl
The flower girl can wear a burgundy dress with accents of white flowers on her dress. She can also wear crystal hair accessories. The rose petals she tosses as she walks down the aisle can be a combination of red and white rose petals.

Fire and Ice Decorations at the Reception
The fire and ice table decorations at the reception may include white tablecloths with a burgundy overlay. Accent the top of each table with a white candle votive with white and red rose pedals surrounding each centerpiece. There can be a beautiful ice sculpture on the table where guests serve punch. The ice sculpture represents the ice element and the red punch represents the fire element. The white serving plates can have an accent of red or burgundy on the outside rim. The wine glasses can be crystal with a burgundy stem or burgundy accents. The decorations that hang from the ceiling can be a combination of colors such as silver, white and burgundy. Add other accents of colors, such as ice blue and dark gray, to highlight and compliment the primary colors included in the fire and ice wedding theme.

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Vietnamese Wedding Gifts

Traditional Vietnamese weddings are elaborate. Gifts are traditionally given by the groom’s family to the bride’s family, as well as from the families directly to the bridge and groom. The bride usually receives jewelry from her husband’s parents, while family and friends often give the bride and groom money. Betel leaves and areca nuts are typically bestowed on the couple because they symbolize love and marriage in Vietnam, dating back to an old tale in which the two items represent love that withstands even death.

Family Gifts
The wedding procession, known as “the procession to receive the bride,” is a time-honored tradition in Vietnam. It is when members of the groom’s family present the bride’s family with gifts. The groom and his family traditionally carry the gifts in lacquer boxes covered in red cloth to symbolize wealth. Gifts may include wine, fruit, cakes, tea, areca nuts and betel leaves. The gift bearers are welcomed into the bride’s home by her parents, after which the groom’s family asks permission of the bride’s parents for their son to marry their daughter.

Jewelry
Vietnamese brides are traditionally given jewelry by both sets of parents. Jewelry from the groom’s parents is carried to the bride’s home on the morning of the wedding; however, the bride only receives it after the wedding ceremony, when the couple kneels in front of an altar at the bride’s home and asks their ancestors’ permission to be married. The bride’s mother-in-law opens the boxes filled with jewelry and drapes her new daughter in bracelets, rings and precious gems.

Money
Money is always a welcome gift for newlyweds in Vietnam, as it helps to offset the cost of the wedding. Guests present the couple with envelopes containing money, wedding cards and blessings during the wedding banquet. Children sometimes set up "road blocks" and ask wedding guests to pay "tolls" during the post-banquet procession from the bride’s home to the groom’s home. It is considered bad luck to refuse to pay the "tolls."

Chalk
Vietnamese brides are presented with pink chalk by their future mothers-in-law on the morning of the wedding. This is the color of happiness and represents the young couple's future happiness. By bestowing chalk on the bride, her mother-in-law symbolically paints a rosy future for the couple. The chalk is a purely symbolic gift kept by the bride as a souvenir of her wedding day.

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Fireman Wedding Ideas

When the bride or groom works as a firefighter, the wedding theme can revolve around the profession. There are many ways to incorporate a fireman wedding theme, from planning through execution. The theme can be incorporated into wedding attire, location, the reception, the cake and many other parts of the ceremony and celebration.

Attire
Most brides will want to wear a traditional wedding gown, but they may choose to have red accents on their gown or as part of their bridal bouquet. The remainder of the wedding party can employ the firefighter theme in their attire, with the groom and groomsmen wearing dress blue uniforms if they are professional firefighters. They also could carry, or even wear when appropriate, their firefighter boots and helmets.

Location
There is no better location for a fireman-themed wedding than a fire hall or fire station. Having the ceremony take place in the station may take some extra planning, cleaning and decorating, but it would make for a very memorable ceremony. Explore all options, such as renting plastic fire hydrants to set up along the aisle where the wedding party will enter. The wedding couple could also walk underneath an arch of fireman pikes, held by firefighters in dress blues or full working uniforms.

Cake
With a fireman wedding theme, the cake can add a great deal of fun and whimsy to the celebration. Consider a cake designed to resemble a burning building, with a plastic firefighter groom and bride standing on top. Another possibility is having a very traditional white cake, with a bride figurine standing on top and a toy ladder leading down the cake to a fire truck and the groom. To cut the cake in just the right fashion, use a small plastic fire ax.

Extra Touches
The ideas are nearly endless for a fireman wedding theme. For guest seating, use small toy fire trucks to stand behind the place cards. If you can find a friendly Dalmatian dog, which is the traditional firehouse dog, have the animal walk with the happy couple into the wedding reception. Fire ladders can be leaned against the walls at the reception and decorated with flowers or photos of the couple. Use firefighter boots as the depository for wedding cards and small gifts.

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Finger Foods for Wedding

Country-themed weddings blend the union of two families with the charm and laid-back atmosphere of country life. When planning the food selection for your country wedding take into account the home-style hospitality of a country lifestyle. Finger foods are one way to incorporate country charm into your wedding reception.

Appetizers
Appetizers are a must at some wedding receptions. If you plan to serve them before you get to the main course, keep them simple. Fill lined buckets with sunflower seeds and trail mix. Use bandannas the same color as your wedding party to incorporate your event into the reception. Galvanized steel buckets lined with the bandannas lend a country flair to your wedding reception. For a more western feel, use cowboy hats lined with bandannas to hold your offerings.

Main Courses
For the main course, offer a few selections to your wedding guests. Fried chicken drumsticks are easy to handle and filling. For something heavier, use barbecued pork or beef with mini buns. Keep with the finger food theme by serving sides like corn on the cob and slices of watermelon or other fruits. Serve biscuits or cornbread with plenty of butter, jam and honey. Add coleslaw and baked beans to finish off the country-themed meal.

Desserts
Even if you serve a traditional wedding cake, offer a few finger food desserts for your country wedding. Bite-sized treats like brownies and cookies blend country charm with Southern hospitality to create desserts with that laid-back feel. Brownie squares dusted lightly with powdered sugar present small treats without much fuss. Chocolate chip, oatmeal and peanut butter cookies are crowd-pleasing for younger guests and require virtually no clean up. If you opt for no wedding cake, give cupcakes decorated with flowers, cowboy hats or candied fruits to your reception guests.

Kid-Friendly Finger Foods
Young palates do not always agree with grown-up selections like barbecue and coleslaw. Incorporate some kid- and clothing-friendly alternatives to your finger food banquet. Chicken and steak fingers have a country flair and provide a tidy alternative to messier fare. Organic veggies like baby carrots and celery sticks are small enough for little fingers to manage. Add small cups of ranch dip and peanut butter so smaller guests can custom create their selections.

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Decorate for a Vow Renewal

Your vow renewal will likely have numerous similarities to your wedding day, though it can also be as different as you'd like it to be. Decorate for your renewal to reflect your relationship and share your love and lives with guests. Some couples choose to renew their vows to have the dream wedding they didn't get the first time around, while others want an intimate celebration. Either way, your decorations should reflect your style and set the mood you want to create.

Use flowers in your bouquet, boutonniere, centerpieces, and aisle decorations if you have an aisle.
Include your favorite flower or color, a flower from your original wedding, flowers from the garden you tend together, or any flower that has any meaning to you as a couple. For example, if he gives you the same flowers every year for your anniversary, use those. Simple bouquets or scattered petals will set a romantic scene.

Light candles around the tables, walkways, or other tables. If open flames aren't possible, consider LED candles, lanterns, or twinkling lights wrapped around trees or draped from the ceiling.

Frame pictures from your original wedding and other significant moments throughout your relationship. Include pictures of your children, your first home together, or special vacations. The pictures can serve as your centerpieces in decorative frames or specialty vases with pockets to hold pictures. Set your original wedding photo album on a table or play a slide show for guests to celebrate your entire relationship with you.

Include themed decorations if your vow renewal has a theme. Sand castles or fake sand castles made from Styrofoam or plastic can work for a beach- or ocean-themed vow renewal. Masquerade masks and Mardi Gras beads can decorate clear hurricane lamps with gold-colored candles for a masquerade party.

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