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Planning a wedding in today’s economic environment can be difficult to say the least.  Weddings are an expensive event and when times are tough, weddings get even pricier.  One great way to help alleviate some of the wedding costs is to source out previously used items for your event.  Everything from decor to your bridal gown can be purchased second-hand through a multitude of Canadian wedding classifieds that make your search not only fruitful but also fun.  After all, half the fun is in the search, right? 

Many brides feel that they just can’t wear someone else’s wedding gown and as a result purchasing a used wedding dress becomes completely out of the question.  But, think about it this way.  Someone tried this dress on once for a few hours…that’s all.  She didn’t wear it continuously for days and days and then gave it to you to wear.  It is barely used.  Also, think that the person that tried this dress on for a few hours once paid thousands of dollars for that privilege.  You, in turn, will pay a considerable amount less for the privilege of wearing this dress for a few hours more.  Isn’t the money saved worth sharing this dress experience with another happy individual?

The bottom line is wedding dresses are extremely expensive and used wedding gowns are an excellent way to help with this one huge wedding expense.  In most cases, the groom will be wearing a rented tux; so, why can’t the bride wear a rented gown or even a used one?

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Flowers are the easiest way to spruce up any wedding.  From colour to fragrance, flowers have you covered.  They can be used in the ceremony and reception decor plus, all the bridal bouquets are traditionally made of flowers.  With this in mind, how do you pick the right wedding flowers for your special day?  As with all things bridal, there are a few tried and true stems that are synonymous with weddings and that you will never go wrong with.  Here’s a shortlist of the most popular wedding flowers:

1.  Roses – no surprise here!  Roses are the definition of romance; so, using them at a wedding is very appropriate.  Roses, too, are great because they can be used in all aspects of the day from the ceremony to the reception and all the bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres.  Very versatile!

2.  Daisies - their simple elegance is truly breathtaking.  They are a flower which symbolizes purity and innocence.  They come in a wide variety of colours, are fairly inexpensive and can be used in formal weddings as well as in backyard nuptials.

3.  Hydrangeas - brilliant blues, pretty pinks, or elegant whites.   These buds are full-bodied and colourful.  They are perfect for monochromatic bouquets, they work well in ceremony and reception arrangements but due to their size, do not work as boutonnieres or corsages.

4.  Hyacinth – how sweet the smell!  Fragrant and pretty in pink, blue or white, hyacinths are beautiful in multi-flower arrangements but can also be used alone.  They work in bridal bouquets and in table arrangements but their short stems limit them to short arrangements.  They are also not suitable as boutonniers or corsages.

5.  Calla Lily – elegant trumpet like flower that is perfect for weddings as its appearance alone appears as though the wedding is being heralded by trumpets.  They are a perfect stand-alone flower but work well with other flowers as well.  Calla Lilies can be used throughout the wedding and are fairly easy to work with.  Great news for the do-it-yourselfer!

Regardless of what flower you choose as your main wedding bud, make sure to get expert advise on storage, durability, longevity issues as each flower reacts differently when cut and arranged.  While some flowers, like tulips, are long-lasting, others, like roses, end up looking sloppy when they sit for too long.  Visit some floral shops to get some wedding flower ideas and inspiration for your big day’s special buds!

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What makes a wedding special and memorable?  The couple usually sets the tone as does the venue, the decor and the food etc.  There is however, that undefinable something that makes certain weddings stand out much more than many of their counterparts.  What is that something and how can everyone get it?

Well, part of making your day extra special is to include some great wedding ideas that many people have not seen yet at a wedding and that will add an extra element of decor or entertainment to your event. 

Finding these unique ideas makes the end result all the more special.  For example, we recently came across an article about  a company that does 3D sculptures of the bride and groom.  These sculptures can be used as centrepieces or as statues at the entrance.  Now, that’s something you don’t see everyday!

Maybe statues are not your thing or maybe you don’t have the budget for something like that.  You can add personality to your wedding by simply taking something traditional and jazzing it up.  For example,  you can have your wedding party dance down the aisle or  you and your spouse can break out into a well choreographed first dance instead of a traditional waltz?

The important thing to keep in mind when planning your wedding is that the day is not just about having all the “t”s crossed and “i”s dotted.  It’s about creating an event that speaks to your guests and to you and tells everyone that they are celebrating a moment not just attending a dinner.  Create an event that resonates in your guests’ minds long after the day is over.  Your wedding, your way…..

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With 2009 firmly behind us, we hope that the economic turmoil that it brought didn’t follow us into the new year.  However, many of us are still feeling the effects that one bad year had on our pocketbook and are reacting accordingly.  As a result, many brides are choosing to be creative with their wedding planning so that their expenses don’t get out of hand. 

If you are one of those brides and are looking for ways to cut costs with your wedding, you can do what many in Canada have done very readily over the last few years: buy used or “recycled” items from a wedding buy & sell. 

Using the classifieds to find items from wedding dresses, to jewellery, to decor has become not only a necessary option for many brides but has also become a bit of an obsession.  Once you start looking through the thousands of items available, you just can’t stop and chances are, you will find exactly what you were looking for and then some.

Designer gowns, diamond rings, chair covers, bridesmaids dresses and even shoes are all available through these listings.  Some items are used and some are new but in reality, even the used items have only been used once. So, used or new, the true measure in the classifieds effectiveness is in finding exactly what you want for a very discounted price.

 Wedding classifieds can be found anywhere from your favourite newspaper to online.  If you prefer to do your research online, you may choose from the ever popular www.craislist.org, www.ebay.ca, or www.kijij.ca or you can visit bride.ca and find all the main classifieds sites in one spot.

Whatever your search method may be, rest assured that using classifieds to source out wedding items at discounted prices is not only economically wise but also 2010 chic.

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An aisle runner, a long piece of fabric used to line the path a bride walks to reach her awaiting groom.  A sometimes forgotten aspect of the wedding ceremony, the aisle runner is something of an add-on that couples usually rush to arrange just prior to the wedding. 

Lately, however, all that has changed and wedding aisle runners are becoming an important focal point the is not only noticed but fussed over.

Why do we even use aisle runners?  Well, way back in the day, folks didn’t have cement and asphalt to walk on and all the roads, streets, sidewalks and even indoor flooring was dirt.  During a wedding, a cloth would be placed in front of the bride so that her dress wouldn’t get soiled as she walked toward the altar.

Later, this simple cloth started to take on a more decorative importance.  Since walking on dirt is no longer an issue (unless you are having an outdoor wedding), aisle runners remained an integral part of the ceremony but without the need for it to be functional.  Now, it is simply decorative. 

When deciding on what type of aisle runner to use, you have your choice of renting one in the simple and traditional white or ivory fabric or you can pick a colour that matches your wedding’s overall theme.  In many cases, couples choose to buy their own runner and have it embroidered with their names, initials, or favourite verse. 

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There really are no rules when it comes to aisle runners except that it be long enough to accomodate the bride’s journey from a few feet behind the pews or seats to the altar.  It should also be wide enough to accomodate two people standing side by side. 

A word of advice on the use of aisle runners for your ceremony.  Make sure that someone responsible is in charge of setting it up before the ceremony and that they remove and safely store it afterwards.  This is especially important when renting your runner as you don’t want to pay for a missing item.  Also, if you do rent a runner, always be clear on any damage or replacements costs, just in case.

Last but not least, choose your runner’s fabric wisely.  In general, they are made of polyester or vinyl.  You can always choose a fancier fabric like silk or satin but be advised that the sturdier the fabric, the better, especially for outdoor events or for rough surfaces.  Remember that it must withstand heels walking on it.  If you are standing and walking on soft surfaces, your heels will dig right through a delicate fabric and ruin your runner.

An aisle runner is an important part of your wedding day.  It will enhance the bride’s appearance as she makes her all important walk down the aisle when all eyes are solely on her.  Not having a runner can distract from the brides appearance if the flooring is substandard or boldly coloured.  Realistically, it is a small part of the wedding’s overall budget but going without it will be noticed and you don’t want people noticing what you didn’t have at your wedding just what you did have…..      

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Once you have your dress and your veil and your guy, what is the next most important decision to make? 

Your bridal hairstyle of course!  There are all sorts of classic wedding hairstyles to swoon over before you choose one that is just right for you, like the bun,  the up do or the french twist etc. 

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Our personal favourite is the messy up do.  This look is great because you can wear it with most of today’s trendy styles.  Plus it’s a look that gives you an up do but still allows the hair to have some movement.    Since the hair isn’t tied back so tightly, loose locks break away from the style adding romance to your overall appearance.

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It’s also a very sexy look.  By having most of the hair lifted off the shoulders, the neck is revealed but the hair that doesn’t get tucked into the do add the allure of something brushing ever so lightly across the neck and shoulders.  Very subtle yet oh so hot!

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Another one of our favourites is the long, loose curls.  This, of course, works only if you already have long hair to begin with and if you are planning on wearing a strapless dress.  Nevertheless, this look is hot.  Long gorgeous wavy hair blowing in the wind as you ride off into the sunset…  How’s that for romantic!

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Whether your hair is long, short, curly or straight, there is just the right hairstyle for you to wear on your wedding day.  Your best bet is to take your veil and a picture of your dress to your hairstylist well in advance of your wedding day and spend some time experimenting with different looks until you find the one that works best.  Keep in mind that your hair must not only match your face but also your dress and your personality.      

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A new year will soon be upon us and with that new year we will expect to see some changes in the wedding world.  Recently at New York’s fashion week, designers unleashed their plans for 2010 wedding dresses.  With lots of drama and romantic flair, 2010 wedding dresses will not disappoint brides to be.

Weddings in general, don’t see many drastic changes from year to year.  However, with every passing season, we herald in small changes that make each wedding season unique.  What will make its mark as an undeniable characteristic of a 2010 wedding dress?  Here are a few examples that tore up the runways in New York this fall:

• Crystal – crystal beading has returned to adorn the plain skirts and bodices of the last few seasons making this years dresses a little more ornate and interesting to look at.

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• Gathering or Folding – again a reversal from the plain skirts we’ve grown accustomed to, designers have added gathering, folding or pleating to this year’s dresses giving the dress itself structure, texture and interest. 

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• Ruffles – this old favourite has returned with a vengeance this year adorning hemlines, bodices, skirts, and even veils!

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• Taffeta and Satin on full ball gowns  - full heavy fabrics return to replace the lighter chiffon and organza fabrics we’ve been seeing so much of lately, although the lighter fabrics will remain popular in order to have the oh so hot ruffling on many dresses.  Keep a look out for taffeta and statin in dresses in a full ball gown style.  This is an extremely dramatic and very hot look for 2010! 

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• Asymmetry – nothing new here, since asymmetrical dresses and one shoulder styles in particular have been hot for one season already; however, designers this year, have taken the trend one step further by adding to all aspects of the dress, including the skirt which, in many cases, is made of intentionally torn fabric that is reorganized to create the look of the dress.

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Whatever your fashion style is, traditional or modern, you will not be at a loss in 2010 for a style that suits your taste to a “t”.  Along with all these new twists, designers have elaborated on old favourites, giving brides options of all sorts to choose from.  It’s a good time to be a bride….enjoy!

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When you think about a wedding, what is the moment during the day you enjoy the most.  Is it the walk down the aisle, the i do’s, the bouquet toss?  Every person has their own personal favourite.  However, in general, most people would agree that the most special moment of the entire day is the moment the bride and groom take to the dance floor for the first dance.

It is the first dance that really gives the guests a look into the couple itself.  Their love, their life, their commitment is apparent during these few precious minutes.  We, as guests, are instantly taken into a private moment shared by two people who have chosen to publicly declare to the world that they are forever one.

For the bride and groom, the first dance represents the moment during the wedding day when they can finally relax and enjoy the festivities they are about to embark on.  Plus, it is finally a second to spend by themselves, if you will, during a day when all eyes and attention is on them.  It is an instant to speak privately with each other and to enjoy the fact that their commitment has now officially been confirmed.

The first dance is the turning point between the day’s serious and official aspect and the celebration.  It sets a tone, a mood and marks the beginning of the party!  With so much riding on it, how do you pick the right first song to dance to?

Even though the first song is such an important decision, there really is no right or wrong.  It really is only about the two of you and you should pick a song that reflects your relationship.  Maybe you already have a favourite song?  Maybe the song you first danced to became “your song” and you continue to enjoy it every time you hear it?  Maybe there is one song in particular that really outlines what the two of you are all about as a couple? 

You and your spouse are really the only two people who can truly say what piece of music evokes  heartfelt emotion in both of you.   If, however, you are at a complete loss and can’t think of what you should dance to on your wedding day, fret not! 

Wedding experts always love to add their two bits about what songs make the perfect ones for wedding first dances and there are no better experts than the ones playing the music.  Ask your DJ what the top wedding songs in Canada are and take some time to listen to them with your partner.  If any of those speak to you, then you have found your match.

One rule of thumb: don’t listen to your chosen song too much leading up to the wedding.  You want to keep it fresh and exciting so that when you do actually hit the dance floor, it will inspire and move you as much as it did when you first heard it.  Enjoy!

In South Africa, consider visiting Cape Town and the Cape of Good Hope. This is where your honeymoon in Africa will probably start. Also, the Kruger National Park is a must-see for Honeymooners.

African Safari honeymoon

Other Great Honeymoon Attractions In South Africa:

Greater St Lucia Wetland Park
Garden Route

In Zambia you’ll discover amazing wildlife and big game animals in the parks and national reserves. There are also many romantic spots to camp or live temporarily in local villages. Zambia is also home to the Victoria Falls, A natural wonder of the world and one of the perfect African Honeymoon sights.

African Safari honeymoon

Other Great Honeymoon Attractions In Zambia

Lower Zambezi National Park
Luangwa National Park
Zambezi River

Botswana

For many years Botswana has been one of Africa’s least known honeymoon destinations, but in recent years increasing numbers of tourists have been discovering the rich natural beauty of the area. some of the Best sights for you to check out on your African Honeymoon include:

Kalahari Desert
Okavango Delta,

African Safari Honeymoon

The Best Time To Go

South Africa: As a rule, the weather is good or excellent countrywide, year round, however Fall and Winter months are the best for safaris.
Botswana: Dry season is from May to December – so.. the Fall
Zambia: Game viewing is best during the dry season from May through to October.
This link has some great weather advice also

Celsia - Bouquet of Wedding Flowers

We’ve discovered that there are many floral alternative to expensive imported flowers. They could even be in your own backyard. Here are just a few, arranged by season:

Spring Wedding Flowers

Spring is the most obvious season for selecting home-grown flowers. Try any of the ones listed below and we know you’ll be thrilled

Anemone
Cherry blossom
Daffodil
Hyacinth
Syringa (Lilac)

Lotus Wedding Flowers

Summer Wedding Flowers

In the summertime, brides have a choice of so many different types of wedding flowers that they usually choose a mixed bouquet. Like spring, the color choices are simply gorgeous.

Delphinium
Hydrangea
Iris
Lily
Sunflower
Stephanotis
Tuberose

Fall Wedding Flowers

If your wedding falls in fall, select earthy wedding flowers. Reds, orange and yellow are the best. A mix of red roses and marigolds is a vibrant choice for a fall wedding.

Aster
Chrysanthemum
Holly
Hydrangea (early fall)
Marigold

Perfect Place Flowers

Winter Wedding Flowers

If you are getting married in the wintertime, don’t think you can’t have beautiful flowers. There are many wonderful choices available in winter in bold, vibrant colors. Consider adding berries and pinecones to your centerpieces and other floral arrangements for a nice winter touch.

Amaryllis
Bells of Ireland
Evergreen
Gardenia
Holly
Jasmine