Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Say it with color! Choosing Wedding Colors.


Dealing with color puts non-verbal communication on a whole new level. We need to be aware of the meanings of different colors, as well as, the impression they will convey. Color is a powerful communication tool because it sets the underlying tone. For that reason, special care should be taken when determining a color scheme.

Our personalities are shaped by 'what we say', 'how we project ourselves'
and 'our reaction to information'. The color that we wear or choose for special occasions in our lives can also add to this and often says a lot more than we think.

Here are some information about color, and the meaning thereof, that can help you bring a non-verbal message across.

WHITE is soft and sophisticated but creates a cold and clinical look

PURPLE shows that you are imaginative, avoid this color if you do not want to look eccentric.

RED shows self-confidence and should be avoided if you do not want to come across as too dominant.

PINK is extremely feminine, but leaves one with a weak and a dependent image.

BLUE shows that you are responsible AND deep blue shows authority. People might think that you are predictable.

YELLOW comes across as very optimistic and will draw a lot of attention, Avoid this colour if you do not want to seem impulsive.

GREEN sends the message of independence and should be avoided if you do not want so seem stubborn.

GREY is smart and professional and shows a balanced person, but tends to make you look conservative.

ORANGE belongs to someone that is enthusiastic, but sends a message of one being superficial.

This may not be the beginning, nor the end of non verbal communication, but
it certainly helps if you want to make the right kind of statement with your
chosen color scheme.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Wedding music: then and now...


I remember my grandmother talking about her wedding a long time ago, and the one thing she never mentioned was the wedding music. When I asked her about the music she had at her wedding, she got a confused look on her face and said that she had no idea. The church picked it and to her it was just background music.

Times have changed, and today the music is as much a personal statement for the bride and groom as the invitations or the party favours. Even at traditional weddings, more churches are allowing personalized music selections, to appease the new generation of wedding planners.

Long gone are the days when the church would just play “Here Comes the Bride,” during the walk down the isle and pick the sombre music to be played at your wedding.

Everyone knows that the music at the reception is the ultimate expression of personal taste from the bride and groom. At my wedding reception, my wife and I chose a song by 2 Live Crew for the cake cutting music - and I will leave it to you to figure out which song we chose.

Even though the wedding music is a statement made by the couple, it is usually the bride who chooses which song will play as she marches down the aisle. In some cases, the final choice is the result of collaboration between the bride and groom, but when that happens, it is usually a song they both feel strongly about.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Making the Marriage Proposal


Proposing to your partner is a huge decision. How many hours have you spent with the ring burning a hole in your pocket? Wait, do you even have a ring ? Do you know how to tell her or when would be the right time? The first question to arise in your mind should be: well, how do I do it? Hold on, before your asthma acts up or you run a risk of blowing an artery, let us think about this as a chance to renew your commitment to your significant other, this is an event, signifying a new beginning. Rejoice! You’ve found the one thing that makes the world go round: love.

Now, things you need are: money for the ring and the perfect place. You have to have a ring to propose. But how do you choose the engagement ring? Here’s a familiar tip, if all else fails, get her a diamond. Most girls love diamonds, but people do have different tastes, and not everyone is comfortable selecting jewelry. Look at the jewelry your partner currently owns for ideas. When in doubt, its better to ask her what she admires in an engagement ring. In any case, this shouldn’t be as hard as everyone says.

Questions you might ask: How? Some girls like extravagant declarations of love, while others prefer something simple and cute. Plan your proposal based on what you know about your partner. What have you shared together that you can incorporate into the proposal? Come on now, use your imagination. After romantic dinner , you make desert ... as you bring out the mugs of coffee, milk and sugar, you might ask: "I forget how you take your coffee..." why she would be shocked. How could you forget? But you continue "... cream... sugar... diamond engagement ring? You place the ring, down in front of her. Unforgettable reaction - guaranteed…

In conclusion, there’s a warning: sweaty palms…dead giveaway. No matter where or when you choose; keep in mind; she worth it, the only thing you have to concern yourself with is whether or not she will say "yes".

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Groom’s Checklist



Four to six months before the wedding

* Select invitations and think about who you want to send them to. Yes, you have to send them to your future in-laws.
* Select the wedding rings with your bride, and have them engraved with both of your initials and the wedding date.
* Purchase wedding rings and mentally prepare for the receipt figures.
* Pick out entertainment.
* Choose a caterer.
* Reserve rental equipment like chairs and tables.
* Confirm locations for your triple-threat: the wedding, the party and the rehearsal dinner.
* Plan where the honeymoon will be.

Three months before

* Send invitations to those on the final guest list. Friendly reminder: exes do not make the cut.
* Go to your first tuxedo fitting
* Plan and order wedding day transportation.
* Write your vows or go over the traditional ones. Avoid using the nick names you have for each other.

Four to eight weeks before

* Get your marriage license.
* Get your lady a wedding gift to calm her nerves and remind her why you’re so lovable.
* Buy some gifts for your parents and the groomsmen.
* Pick up your wedding rings and put them in a safe place.

Two to three weeks before

* Bachelor party!
* Recover from bachelor party.
* Make a song list for the DJ or band. Be considerate of your multi-generational guests because grandma only has so many hip-hop dance moves.
* Write a speech that includes thanking the special people in your life- your bride, best man, parents, in-laws…

One week before

* Pre-arrange for someone you trust to return any rentals.
* Get a hair trim from your usual barber and let him know it’s for the big day.

Two to three days before

* Go for your second tuxedo fitting and bring your new duds home. To keep them in good condition, refrain from playing James Bond around your apartment.
* Tell your best man to make sure all your guys go for their second fittings too, because we know at least one of your friends would end up going to the ceremony in cargo shorts and flip-flops if his tuxedo didn’t fit right.

The night before

* Give your best man the ring and make the appropriate threats to ensure he won’t lose it.
* Remember to give two very important things to give your officiant – the marriage license and payment.
* Attend the rehearsal dinner with your family and friends. This is a good time to give them the gifts you bought because while it shows you are grateful, it also acts as a bribe for them to behave well the next day.
* Last but not least, go to bed at a decent hour. After all, the rest of your life starts tomorrow.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Bridal Shower Party Themes


You will have a great time at the shower no matter what, but why not make it extra special with a theme? Here are some ideas.

Tea party: Serve tea, along with finger foods such as scones, finger sandwiches, and petite fours.

Room of the house: Each guest is "assigned" a room in the house and brings a gift to be used for or in that room.

Lingerie: Guests bring the bride lingerie; a great way to stock up for the honeymoon.

Around the clock: Each guest is assigned a "time," such as breakfast time or bath time, and have to give gifts that are to be used during this time.

Ethnic theme: Plan a shower according to the bride’s heritage. The decorations, favours and food should also have an ethnic flair. For example, serve fresh fruit and tropical drinks at a Hawaiian theme wedding shower.

Christmas decoration: Guests are instructed to bring an ornament for the couple's first Christmas tree – a great idea for winter showers.

Garden party: Host a shower in a garden setting and decorate the tables with beautiful flowers. Ask guests to bring gifts that the bride can use in her garden.

Month of the year: Each guest is assigned a month of the year; this way, the bride can get seasonal gifts to be used throughout the year.

Favourite memories: Each guest brings a gift that represents their favourite times spent with the bride.

Pyjamas theme: Have guests arrive in the evening, dressed in their PJ's and spend the whole night getting manicures, pedicures, facials and massages.

Stock the pantry: Have each guest write their favourite recipe on a recipe card and bring the card, along with all non-perishable ingredients for the recipe in a box or gift basket.

Stock the bar: Similar to stock the pantry, but guests bring gifts to help the couple stock their bar.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Ceremonies to include in your wedding.


Rose ceremony.

In the past, the rose was considered a symbol of love, and in the rose ceremony it symbolizes love as well. The bride and groom give each other a rose at the end of the wedding ceremony just after being pronounced husband and wife. Children can be included as well; if there are children who will be in the new family, each child can then be given a rose and a hug by the bride and groom, showing that the couple's union and their love includes the children as well, and that a new family is being formed.

Canada’s colourful wedding traditions

Tea ceremony

While the tea ceremony is an Asian ritualized form of making tea, the term generally refers to the Japanese tea ceremony. During the tea ceremony, the bride and groom, as a sign of respect, offer and serve tea to their parents. According to ancient Chinese beliefs, the tea ceremony will help the newlyweds produce children early in their marriage and ensure many grandchildren. It also symbolizes good relations between the bride and her new family.



The sand ceremony

The sand ceremony, a celebration that is usually two to three minutes in length, symbolizes the joining of two lives. The couple pours various colours of sand from a container, such as a seashell, into one special container; the flowing sand and blending of the colours symbolize the bringing together of two lives into one. Some couples prefer to leave a small amount of sand in their respective container to show that even though they now function as one, they remain individuals.



The candle lighting ceremony

This ceremony is sometimes performed to symbolize the joining together of the two families into one united family. More often, though, it is used to symbolize the union of two individuals, becoming one in commitment. One interpretation is that the taper candles are lit by representatives from each family to symbolize the love and allegiance that each family has for either the bride or the groom. As the bride and groom use these two flames to light the unity candle, they bring the love of both families together in a united love of the new couple. Generally, the two tapers are left burning and replaced in their holders (because each family's love for their own will continue). However, in some ceremonies they may blow out their individual candles. Similarly, sometimes the tapers may be blown out, to indicate that the two lives have been permanently merged, or they may be left lit, symbolizing that the now-married partners have not lost their individuality.

FAQ's (frequently asked questions) About Alcohol Requirements


1. How many glasses in a bottle of ‘champagne’ or wine?
A bottle of sparkling wine or any other wine holds 6 glasses of 125 ml each.

2. How do you accommodate different tastes in ‘champagne’?
Generally speaking, young adults and women tend to enjoy the semi-sweet variety, so for an average order, the ration of semi-sweet to dry should be around 4 to 1.

3. How do you split the ratio between red and white wines?
Refer to the party planner below - but in general, the ratio (guided by the host) could be roughly as follows: 4 semi-sweet, 2 dry and 1 red.

4. How many glasses in a bottle of ‘spirits’?
Using an optic (tot measure), a bottle should yield 30 tots, but as these are often hand-poured, it is safer to base your estimate on 25.

5. How many glasses in a bottle of liqueur?
You should be able to pour approximately 15 drinks from a 750ml bottle. (The recognized measure for liqueurs is 50 ml.)

6. What is the ratio for Buck’s Fizz (champagne and orange juice)?
Usually 60% orange juice and 40% sparkling wine, depending on taste.
7. How much wine should I allow for a cheese-and-wine function?
Half a bottle of wine per person is usually recommended, depending on the duration of the event.
Read More: Ways to save money on the alcohol bill

Monday, November 3, 2008

Dressing the Bride: Helpful Facts and Hints


Order your dress at least six months before the wedding date. This will allow you enough time in case of errors in size, style or shipping. Read all the fine print in your contract. Especially regarding your deposit, arrival date, alteration policies, and damage to dress. Inquire about return policies or deposit refunds in case your wedding is delayed or postponed.

Get any changes and/or additions in written confirmation.


Fittings:

*
Do not schedule your dress fittings to occur after big meals.
*
When getting dressed, cover your face with a light cotton fabric or netting before putting the dress over your head to avoid getting make-up on it.
*
Practice sitting, dancing and even kneeling in your dress.
*
Be sure that you could breathe comfortably in any position.
*
If you dress is floor length, consider having a bond of additional fabric or ribbon banding added to hem of your dress that can be removed after the wedding is over.
*
If your dress has a long train or tail - practice bustling it with your maid of honor or mom, so that there are no unexpected complications at the wedding.
*
Some brides arrive at their final fitting pregnat. If this your case, be honest with the alterations person so she or he can do additional changes to ensure that you will be comfortable on your wedding day.
*
If you have a dress with skirts that can be removed, converting into a shorter dress that allows more freedom of movement at reception, practice attaching and reattaching the skirts portions a few times before your wedding day.
*
If you choose to wear gloves, be sure you can slip them off easily when it comes time to put the ring on your finger.
Standing Out From the Crowd

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Wedding Venue Planning Tips


Location, Location, Location - Find a low-cost venue. If you’re flexible about the “where,” you can save a lot on your venue. Don’t knock your childhood church: if you or your parents are members, the venue fee will probably be waived. A city-owned venue, such as a public garden or historic building, may be available for a surprisingly low fee. If your guest list isn’t too large you might consider marrying at home (yours, or a rich friend’s!). But be careful: a home wedding won’t cut costs if you have to bring in additional facilities, seating, lighting, etc.  Another important question to ask yourself before choosing the venue: How much space do I need for how many people?

This is simply a guide to give you a starting point for planning room occupancy levels.

 

Type of event and space required: (suggested minimums)
A Formal Dinner requires 1.2m² per person.
A Buffet Dinner and Dance requires 1.5m² per person

Use the following formula:     (L x W) ÷1.2 or 1.5 =number of people.
The length x width of a room gives you the 'Square Meters’.

Divide the square meters by the 'Space required' (1.2 or 1.5) and this gives you the number of people that will fit in the room. 

 

Room Sizes and Capacities:

Size 

 Square Meters

 Formal Dinner

 Buffet & Dance

 6x6m

 36 

 30 people

 24 people

 6x9m

 54

 45 people

 36 people

 6x12m

 72

 60 people

 48 people

 6x15m

 90

 75 people

 60 people

 10x10m

 100

 83 people

 66 people

 10x15m

 150

 125 people

 100 people

 10x20m

 200

 166 people

 133 people

 10x25m

 250

 208 people

 166 people

 10x30m

 300

 250 people

 200 people

 

Please note these are purely approximates…..numbers may vary dependant on the room layout.

 


Wedding Venue Checklist

Monday, October 27, 2008

Win a Romantic Christmas Dinner for Two!


 

Thank you to all of you who took the time to take part in our recent contests. Now we are launching another competition! This time, members can enter for the chance to win a romantic dinner for two!


Win a Romantic Christmas Lunch or Dinner for Two (Bon Appétit -  gift card for $100) - any Swiss Chalet, Kelsey’s, Montana’s Cookhouse, Harvey’s, or Milestone’s restaurant and Second Cup cafés in Canada. About 1050 locations to choose from! Please visit the following websites to find the nearest restaurant:

You fill tired and not in the mood to go out partying order home delivery (sorry we do not pay for extra delivery fee if any fee apply!) or take out. One quiet evening will provide a much needed break for you and your partner. There are many reasons dinner at home can be more romantic than dinner out. Why fight traffic and crowds to go out for dinner when you can have a very relaxed romantic evening at home?


The rules of the contest are simple: the contest is among all registered and new members. Not member jet? Anyone may enter this contest all you'll need to sign up and become a registered member. This contest starts on November 1st, 2008, at 12:01 AM EST and ends on December 14th, 2008, at 11:59 PM EST

 

DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!!!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

9 things you should know when choosing your wedding date


1. Weddings that take place in the spring have the advantage of being first on the year’s wedding “dance card.” But if you are thinking about an early spring wedding, you should probably consider an indoor wedding ceremony, since the weather conditions may be unpredictable.
2. Traditionally, most weddings take place in the summer. It may be easier for family members who live far away to get time off from work to travel in the summer months, and children are out of school.
3. June has a great advantage: roses, the most romantic flowers, bloom everywhere during this month.
4. If you have your wedding in August, remember that this is such a popular vacation month that if you don’t send your invitations out well in advance, you might receive a higher number of regrets.
5. One of the advantages of fall weddings is that honeymoon destinations are less crowded, since most schools start classes in September.
6. Some couples make the fall foliage a key part of their wedding design using wreaths, harvest motifs, and a warm, fiery palette in their decorating schemes.
7. Fewer people get married in November and January than in summer or fall, which means popular wedding locations are available then. The same is true for musicians, florists and caterers, all of whom are eager to spend extra time with you in the slow month before the Christmas holidays. This means you just might score some great deals.
8. In December, a lot of reception halls, hotels and restaurants are decorated for the season, so you may be able to save on decorations and still have a festive affair.
9. If you’re considering a winter wedding, remember that February has the most romantic wedding date of all - Valentine’s Day. Just be sure to allow enough time to make arrangements for the services you need and want.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Affordable Catering


Many people cannot afford a lavish four-course dinner or a full buffet feast for their wedding, so don’t fret if you’re one of them. There are lots of different options out there that will allow you to serve your guests food without having to file for bankruptcy. And remember - even the simplest of foods can appear special when presented with flair.Your guests will expect different types of food depending on the time of your affair, so the most important factor to consider while planning your menu is the time of the day of your reception. Generally, buffets are cheaper than sit-down meals because the caterer has to provide less staff. If you will not be serving a full meal, make sure to indicate that on your invitations. For example, if you’re having a tea reception, add a line saying “Tea reception following ceremony.” But whatever you do, don’t forget to serve beverages and wedding cake.

A tea reception:
A tea reception is inexpensive and should be held between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tea and coffee is served with a variety of tea sandwiches. The crusts are cut off of these small sandwiches, and tarts, scones, and pastries may be served as well.

A salad luncheon/reception:

A salad luncheon or reception is a wonderful option if your wedding will be held in the late morning. Offer a wide selection of salads, such pasta, potato, and rice salads, coleslaw, fruit salads, and green salads. Provide a few salad dressings, fruits, and breads.

Hors d'oeuvres reception or deli/party trays reception
This type of reception/event is appropriate between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. or after an evening wedding. Provide light finger foods such as chips and dips, fruit and vegetable platters, cheeses, and crackers, and note on your invitation that “light hors d’oeuvres” will be served. If you would like to serve more substantial foods, you can include meat and cheese trays, shrimp cocktails, oysters, egg rolls, sausages, chicken wings, and tea sandwiches. If you will be serving appetizers with meats, you can write that you will be serving hors d’oeuvres.

Hors d'oeuvres and cocktail reception:

This type of reception or party is similar to the one above in regards to time and menus. However, you are serving hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, so make sure your caterer will provide wait staff.

Dessert reception:
This type of reception is suitable between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. or after an evening wedding. Serve an extensive assortment of rich desserts such as cheese cakes, tarts, tortes, cookies, pies, cakes, pastries, cobblers, biscotti, ice cream, sundaes, and candies. Serve coffee, tea, and other beverages.

A simple cake and punch reception:
You can "let them eat cake" as long as your event is not during a regular mealtime. A simple but elegant cake and punch reception must be planned for the mid-morning, for the mid-afternoon, or after an evening wedding. In addition, you may include some candies, cookies, and nuts to the menu.

More tips:

Location/rental equipment :
Does the site include tables and chairs, or do you have to rent them? Do not forget that you may need to rent tents, linens, and kitchen facilities. You may be able to cut costs by using paper and plastic goods instead of glassware, china plates, cloth napkins, and silverware, but remember that this isn’t very environmentally friendly.

Reception staff/duration:
How long will the reception last? If the event runs over, you may have to pay overtime charges. How long do you have the reception site/facilities for? Does the time of the rental of the site and the reception staff include set-up and clean up? Ask your caterer to start cleaning up while your guests are still there. If you cannot afford staff, consider ordering drop-off food or self-serve buffet food. Or you can have your friends pick up some deli trays or takeout food and set up the food with their assistance.

General Meal Times:

Breakfast 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Brunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lunch 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
High tea/snacks 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Dinner/cocktails 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Passed or stationary hors d'oeuvres 8 p.m. and later
Dessert 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Nuptia.ca has announced the expansion of it’s online services.

Nuptia.ca has announced the expansion of it’s online services in order to benefit its members with the launching of a new online wedding jewellery shop. This new stylish collection features a stunning array of wedding necklaces, wedding bracelets, wedding earrings, bridal hair pins, bridal bracelets, bridesmaids’ jewellery, handmade wedding jewellery and gifts, wedding hair accessories as well as custom design made invitations, which creates the perfect finishing touches for that special day.

“Nuptia’s Wedding Shop is dedicated exclusively to the needs of the bride and her wedding party," says Polina Neidbal, Creative Director of Nuptia.ca. . "The purpose of launching this new shop is to provide brides and grooms to be with fine quality jewellery for their wedding day, without causing financial strain. With the costs of an average wedding being high enough, now couples have the opportunity to still have a great dream wedding, without indebting themselves.”

This new jewellery collection features 100% Natural pearls and stones. Included in this collection are cultured pearls, which are real pearls, however they are grown organically inside of oysters in the same way as natural pearls. The difference being that in the case of cultured pearls, the pearl farmer intentionally stimulates the development of the pearl by inserting a "nucleus" into the oyster. Thus, the formation and discovery of the pearl are no longer left to chance.

The benefits of Nuptia.ca's new shop are low price guarantee, with savings of 15-50% compared to other online stores, with even bigger savings off traditional stores since there are limited overhead expenses. They have a large selection of premium pearls, in a variety of shapes and colours, with new exciting products being added every month. Nuptia's online shop is fast, secure and easy to order, allowing shoppers to pay with Paypal, the securest way of purchasing online without divulging credit card information.

Nuptia.ca prides themselves on no "hidden costs" or extra expenses; the details of orders are visible so shoppers know the final cost of their purchase. They offer a flat rate shipping fee anywhere across Canada. Perhaps one of the best features of Nuptia is their customer centric website, enabling customers to rate the products and write reviews about them directly on Nuptia's site, giving important feedback to other shoppers.

ABOUT NUPTIA

Nuptia.ca is a complete, interactive wedding planning site for brides-to-be. The concept of this site was to create a community where active economical brides who prefer to organize their weddings mostly themselves can come for ideas, inspiration, deals, directories, and advice. Today's modern brides are more practical, having lived with their partner for years before making the decision to tie the knot. Although they still would like the grandest wedding possible, these brides-to-be are creative and favour DIY concepts, allowing them to save money.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Choosing Your Wedding Gown - Wedding dress terminology




Finding it hard to understand all the terminology that’s thrown around when you’re talking bridal gowns? Here’s a primer to help you understand the basics.

FABRICS
Brocade: An intricately woven, heavier fabric with raised designs.

Charmeuse: Lightweight, semi-lustrous soft fabric.

Chiffon: Delicate, sheer, and transparent -- made from silk or rayon, with a soft finish -- often layered because of its transparency.

Damask: Similar to brocade with raised designs, but lighter weight.

Illusion: Fine net fabric; used on sleeves or necklines.

Linen: Very light, easily wrinkles.

Organza: Crisp and sheer like chiffon, but with a stiff texture.

Satin: Smooth, tightly woven fabric with a high sheen on one side. Very common in bridal gowns.

Silk: A traditionally more expensive fabric. Strong, elegant, now available in less expensive blends.

Shantung: Similar to raw silk, it has a rough texture with irregular "nubbies" throughout the fabric.

Taffeta: Crisp and smooth, with a small crosswise rib; often made from man-made fabrics.

Tulle: Open-weave net made of silk, nylon, or rayon, this is used primarily for underskirts and veils (think ballerina tutus).


LACES
They're often used on the dress itself, as well as on the veil or headpiece. There are tons to choose from, but here are some of the most popular:

Alencon: Needlepoint lace with designs in deep relief on sheer net.

Chantilly: Scrolls and floral designs on fine mesh, often with scalloped edges.

Duchesse: Floral designs with a lot of raised work; has an all-over effect, with irregularly shaped spaces between designs.

Honiton: An English lace similar to Duchesse.

Schiffli: Delicate floral embroidery; machine-made.

Venise: Heavy needlepoint lace with floral sprays, foliage, or geometric designs.

Spanish: A flat design of roses on a net background; used to make mantilla veils.

Venetian point: Heavy needlepoint lace with floral sprays or foliage.


LENGTHS
Ankle length: Barely reveals the ankles, slightly shorter than floor length.

Floor length: Hemline falls 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches from the floor.

Tea length : Hemline falls several inches above the ankles.

SILHOUETTES
Silhouette refers to the outline of the dress, or the overall style.

A-Line: Fits many body types as the waist isn't as severe as a ball gown silhouette. Two vertical seams follow the A shape, starting from the shoulders and falling to the skirt which then flares out.

Ball gown: A tight, fitted bodice and definite waistline with a very full skirt. When you think bridal gown, this is probably what you think of.

Empire: Characterized by a very high waist (right under the bust); the skirt is fairly slim.

Mermaid: A very slim-fitting dress that ends in a little fishtail skirt.

Sheath: Not unlike the mermaid, this very modern style is form-fitting, often ending with a flare at the bottom

TRAINS
An extension of the wedding dress that starts at the waist. Some dresses come with trains that are detachable.

Sweep: The shortest train, it extends back 8 to 12 inches after touching the floor.

Chapel: Extends 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 feet from the waist.

Semi-cathedral: Extends 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 feet from the waist.

Cathedral: Extends 6 1/2 to 7 1/2 feet from the waist.

Extended cathedral/monarch: Extends 12 feet (or more) from the waist. (Think Princess Di, whose train was 25 feet!)

Note: If your dress does not have a detachable train, you will need to bustle it so you can move around freely at the reception. This entails pulling the train up and attaching it to your dress by tiny hooks sewn into the back of the gown and the train.


VEILS
Usually made from such fabrics as tulle or lace, veils may or may not have a section to cover the face.

Blusher: A short veil worn over the face. After the ceremony, it is turned back over the headpiece. The blusher can often be attached to a longer veil or a hat.

Fly-away: Multiple layers of veiling that brush the shoulders; usually worn with informal, ankle-length dresses, but this style is becoming more and more popular with all kinds of gowns.

Fingertip: Several layers of veiling that extend to the fingertips.

Ballet/Waltz: Falls to the ankles; this is also becoming popular, in simple, multiple layers.

SLEEVES
Cap: The shortest of sleeves, it traditionally covers the shoulder only. However, off-the-shoulder dresses will often incorporate a small cap sleeve.

Fitted: Very close to the arm, no excess material.

Juliet fitted: A tightly fitted sleeve with a small pouf at the shoulder.

Leg o' Mutton: Very full at the shoulder, the sleeve remains full until it narrows to become very fitted at the forearm.

Poet: A very, very full, pleated sleeve.

NECKLINES
There are many variations of these necklines; these are the basics.

Boat (bateau): Straight across shoulders with a slight dip in front

Band: Like a mock turtleneck, this high neckline circles the neck.

Décolletage: A revealing, deep, plunging neckline.

Halter: À la Marilyn Monroe, the neckline scoops in front and ties behind the neck, leaving your arms bare.

Jewel: A high neckline which follows the natural shape of your shoulders and neck.

Square: Forms a half-square around the neck.

Sweetheart: Heart shaped, often seen on strapless gowns; there are many variations of this look.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Nuptia.ca Announces A New Contest

Nuptia. ca is giving brides-to-be another reason to celebrate their BIG day with a contest called "Win Your Wedding Flowers Free".

Nuptia.ca recently ran a contest where Canadian brides-to-be could win 3 special items for their wedding. On September 10th, 2008, Nuptia.ca announced the 3 winners and their prizes: Larissa Shenton, bridesmaids set winner, from North York, ON, Incoronata Pacitto, Rhinestone Tiara winner from Laval, Quebec and Colleen Felhaber, bridal set winner from Petawawa, ON.

Larissa Shenton writes the following thank you message to the Nuptia.ca Team:

"I have received my gift, it is absolutely beautiful!! Thank you so much! In a letter enclosed with the jewelry it asked me to tell my story, so here it is :)

Michel and I met on eHarmony!!! We started talking and it got to the point where we were writing 2 letters a day to each other. We finally decided to meet over sushi; 3 hours later we were still talking and the waitress was walking by our table every 5 minutes hinting for us to leave. It took us 2 1/2 months to get engaged and start living together. I never believed anyone when they said that I would "just know" when I met my special someone, but as cheesy as it is, they were right. We are extremely happy and are looking very forward to our wedding. We are now planning our wedding for 2010 so we can save in order to pay for it. Once again thank you for your contribution to our special day, it is much appreciated!!"- Larissa Shenton

After receiving the great response from Larissa, the Nuptia team decided to escalate the contest to include an even bigger prize. Wedding Flowers are typically about 10% of a wedding budget and Nuptia would like to make that special day even more special. Nuptia has persuaded Bloomex, Canada's fastest growing online florist, to donate $1,000 of wedding flowers. The great news is with $1,000 from Bloomex brides can get complete 30 piece rose packages including:

* 1 Bridal Bouquet,
* 5 Bridesmaid Bouquets
* 1 Bridal Toss Bouquet
* 10 Centerpieces
* 2 Petite Hand-tied Bouquets
* 5 Corsages
* 5 Boutonnieres
* Petals from 10 Roses

The "Win your Wedding Flowers Free" contest allows the happy couple to choose among two special prizes:

1) Professional florist designed wedding flowers package for $1,000. Which features the bride-to-be's choice of flowers and their choice of items.

2) The bride-to-be's choice of wholesale flowers for $1,000 for their Do-It-Yourself Wedding.

The contest begins on September 10th, 2008, at 12:01 AM EST and ends on November 6th, 2008, at 11:59 PM EST. The contest is open to anyone, the only criteria is they must be a registered member. The winner will be selected on November 10th, 2008. The selected entrants will be notified by phone or e-mail within 72 hours of the draw. In the event that a selected entrant does not comply with these Contest Rules and Regulations, or cannot be contacted within 24 hours of the draw, an alternate entrant will be selected.

Nuptia.ca, launched the 1st of May, 2008 is a complete, interactive wedding planning site for brides-to-be. The concept of this site was to create a community where active economical brides who prefer to organize their weddings mostly themselves can come for cost saving ideas, décor ideas, inspirations, sales, deals, DIY advices, checklist, tools, local directory, local wedding specialists, local events. The site boasts over 9,000 visitors per month, and continues to grow. Nuptia.ca is filled with comprehensive information to help brides plan all varieties of weddings.

You can visit http://nuptia.ca/content/view/612/255/ for contest details, including Rules and Eligibility. Good luck to all the brides-to-be on a chance to win $1,000 in wedding flowers for their big day!

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

THANK YOU FOR VISITING US AT CANADA’S BRIDAL SHOW!

We would like to express the deepest gratitude to all the visitors to our booth at Canada’s Bridal Show 2008 in Toronto Metro Convention Centre held from September 26th to 28th, 2008.
For further information on our prices and wholesale flowers, please click http://flowerswholesale.ca/
Everyone seemed excited and interested in Do-It-Yourself Wedding Flowers, so we decided to post some professional tips, tricks, and thoughts on floral decorating to help anyone involved in doing their own flowers. http://nuptia.ca/content/view/241/255/
We also would like to remind you that “Win Your $1000 Wedding Flowers” contest will end on November 6th, 2008, at 11:59 PM EST. The winner will be selected on November 10th, 2008. The selected entrants will be notified by phone or e-mail within 72 hours of the draw.
Thank you one more time for interest in our company and we are looking forward to seeing you again!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Setting the Wedding Date

If you are thinking about an early spring wedding, consider an indoor wedding ceremony, since the weather conditions may be unpredictable.

If you have your wedding in August, remember that this is a popular vacation month.

If you don't send your invitations out well in advance, you might receive a higher number of regrets.

Saturday weddings generally cost more - so you may want to choose to have your wedding on Friday night or Sunday afternoon to save money.

Look at meal times. Serving lunch or/and dinner for your guests can get quite expensive, but if you hold the reception before or after these times, you can serve just hors d'oeuvres and save a lot of money on catering.

Think about your guests. Traveling to your wedding may be more difficult if the wedding is near a big travel holiday such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Check both of your employers' vacation policies before you select a date so you know you’ll be able to go on the honeymoon.

Choose your dress style carefully. If you want long sleeves or a gown made of a heavy material, rule out the blistering hot months of summer.

Depending on your religion, location, and budget, there are some days you should just avoid. For example, it may be tough for your guests to have fun at a wedding held on April 30th when they are worried about getting their tax return in the mail before midnight.

DISCOVER OUR BRAND NEW WEDDING PLANNING PROGRAM!

 

Personalised wedding time line - As soon as you enter your details, you will have your own personalised timeline counting down to your wedding. This comprehensive list of things to do to, will enable you to effortlessly complete everything before your big day.

Delegate and have fun – assign your friends, family or professionals to manager your wedding projects, share information, images, ideas, task and details with your friends.

Ceremony and reception – Keep tabs on everything that is happening at the ceremony and reception from the music and guests to the professionals and program!

Guests – Keep important information about your guests – especially those from out of town with the ability to contact all of your guests or just one at the push of a button.

Professionals – Co-ordinate the hiring of professionals for your wedding. Keep track of quotes, dates, appointments plus the ability to contact them all at the push of a button.

 

Join Now!

 

Already a Member?  

Login Here

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Wedding Flower Gallery

Wedding Make-up and Hairstyle

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day. After all, this will be the most important day of her life. This is where she and her groom will announce their vow of love for each before their family, relatives and friends. This is so important that every bride wants to look her best or somewhat different from how she looks every other day.


Here are some tips to help you decide on the best styles for you on your wedding day.

Hair and Make-upWedding DayTipsSearch

Get usefull hair style and Make-up hints and tips from brides like you.

 

 

Wedding Menu Planning

Let’s face it – food is one of the most important and memorable aspects of your wedding. And it doesn’t just have to taste good – it should look good too. The trend is toward fine catering, more smaller-portioned courses and dishes that are upscale and unique, but keep some traditional elements intact.A well-balanced menu features hot and cold dishes, something refreshing, selections from the land and sea, perfectly paired wines, and desserts to die for. Take a look at some sample menus here!

Monday, September 15, 2008

Letter from our Happy Winner!

Hi everyone!
Today we have receive a "thank you" letter from our happy winner of wedding jewelry contest, and would like to share it with you!

"I have received my gift, it is absolutely beautiful!! Thank you so much! In a letter enclosed with the jewelry it asked me to tell my story, so here it is :)

Michel and I met on eHarmony!!! We started talking and it got to the point where we were writing 2 letters a day to each other. We finally decided to meet over sushi; 3 hours later we were still talking and the waitress was walking by our table every 5 minutes hinting for us to leave. It took us 2 1/2 months to get engaged and start living together. I never believed anyone when they said that I would "just know" when I met my special someone, but as cheesy as it is, they were right. We are extremely happy and are looking very forward to our wedding. We are now planning our wedding for 2010 so we can save in order to pay for it. Once again thank you for your contribution to our special day, it is much appreciated!!

Sincerely,

Larissa"

Nuptia announces the winners of our wedding jewelry contest!

We had a hard time choosing among all the brides who have joined us during last month, but eventually managed to pick 3 finalists:

  • Incoronata ( Laval, QC)

  • Larissa (North York, ON)

  • Coleen ( Petawawa, ON)

The rules of the contest were simple:

Anyone may enter this contest all you'll need to sign up and become a registered member.