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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!

Africa is one of the most beautiful place sin the world to spend a Winter Honeymoon. An African Safari Honeymoon will take you through the continent’s stunning scenery and bring you up close and personal with the unique wildlife that inhabits Africa.

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

Your wedding processional is the time when the bridal party comes into the church or wedding ceremony site. It’s often the most anticipated time of the wedding with the groom waiting at the altar and everyone wanting to see the gorgeous bride in her beautiful dress.

There are many different types of processionals. Generally the officiant along with the groom and best man enter from a side door and wait at the altar. Then, the groomsman and bridemaids walk in pairs down the aisle with the best man and maid of honor being the last pair. If you have a ring bearer or flower girl, they can come next (in some weddings they are before the bridesmaids/groomsmen). And then finally the bride and her escort (often her father) walk down the aisle.

This is very traditional, but many couples improvise. A couple married at Christ Lutheran Church in St. Paul, Minnesota have turned into wedding video celebrities due to their unique processional.

Jill Peterson and Kevin Heinz wowed their wedding guests June 20, 2009 when they (along with their seven bridesmaids, five groomsmen and four ushers) danced down the aisle to “Forever.”

The YouTube video was posted on July 19, 2009 and it has received over 6,000,000 page views, 32,911 ratings and 31,840 comments. I have to say, it’s actually the best wedding processional ever! Hands down.

Enjoy the video:

Many couples are cutting back on the professional vendors to save money on their wedding. DIY weddings allow the bride, groom, their family and friends to pitch in and do much of the work that they would normal have to pay outside services. You can certainly make your own wedding favors and arrange your own flowers, but there are also many other DIY wedding tips and tricks.

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Call on talented friends. Ask a friend or relative to make your wedding cake or take your photographs in lieu of a gift. You can still provide them with the supplies or offer a token payment if you like.

Buy liquor in bulk. Head to the largest liquor store or supplier in your area. Tell them it’s for your wedding (they might give you a break!). Buy wine and hard alcohol by the case. Consider kegs of beer for additional savings.

Go wholesale. Purchase food and beverages, along with disposable napkins, cups, etc from a wholesale restaurant supply company. Believe it or not, many of them are open to the public and you can get a big discount compared to retail.

Be thrifty. Don’t think everything has to match. You can find beautiful vases (and other goods) at thrift shops and dollar stores. You don’t need 16 of the exact same vase. Just choose the same type of material or color family.

Get sponsored. Sponsored weddings sound tacky but they don’t have to be. You don’t need a big sign over the reception door saying, “Sponsored by Sam’s Crab Shack” but you’d be surprised at the donated food, beverages, napkins, matchbooks, decorations and other items you can get for a little signage. For example, you can get a local bakery to bake/decorate your wedding cake for free in exchange for their sign and business cards on the cake table.

If you’ve planned a gorgeous winter wedding in Canada you might be looking to escape the cold and enjoy the tropical heat on your not-so winter honeymoon. Fiji is a great option for honeymooners! The Fijian islands are one of the World’s most romantic honeymoon destinations.

The area has a rich culture and a warm inviting atmosphere. The locals are friendly and welcoming. Everything is here for you to enjoy a tropical honeymoon in paradise. Some of the many activities that you can partake in during your honeymoon in Fiji include; fishing, snorkeling, sailing and just relaxing on the sand with your partner. There are many caves and treks if you’re keen to get out and adventure!

Also, the resorts that Fiji has to offer are spectacular. Speak to a reputable travel agent about the best way to book. And don’t just settle for the regular modes of transport to and from the islands. Consider taking a Jetplane ride from one of the neighbouring islands. Or better yet, speak to a captain and jump aboard a merchant ship for the journey over.

Winter is the best time to go because the islands have the clearest waters at this time of year. Be sure to take plenty of lotion and don’t get too sunburnt! There is no faster way to ruin a honeymoon in the tropics than by over-tanning…