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Well, so you're getting married! Isn't this
exciting? Can you believe this is really happening?! Where do you begin? It's
s-o-o-o romantic. . .and there is s-o-o-o much to do! First you need to make a
list. Yes, a list, and this one compiles dreams -- guests go on another list
everyone is working on. This list should be made with your fiancee (not mom) and
should include what would make your day really special. This list should also
include and honor any family traditions whenever possible. Remember this wedding
is just one day, you have your families for life!
Now, you know that you must book the church, reception facility, photographer,
etc., but let's talk about all the "extras". To record memories of
this special occasion, a beautiful memory wedding album comes to mind. Wouldn't
it be lovely if it was covered in fabric and lace reminiscent of your wedding
gown? It should have a place to record your proposal, parties and showers, and
even your guests at the wedding along with a place to list all your wonderful
gifts. What about the flower girl and the basket she carries? How about covering
it with fabric to match her dress? If you are having a ring bearer, he must have
a pillow.
For
the traditional garter toss at the reception, you need one to toss and you may
want a lovely keepsake garter to keep. You may want a bag for a money dance, a
six-pence, a registry pen, a unity candle, and the list goes on. There are many
lovely ready-made items to meet this list on the market and custom designed
items are available as well.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes
to accessories. We all know, women must accessorize everything! So, remember the
attendant accessories as well as the brides. Shoes, handbags, jewelry and gloves
are just some of those items to complete the look you want and make everyone
feel beautiful. The goal is the total look--Beautiful Bride and Lovely
Bridesmaids. No one accessory should outshine the other. You may want jewelry
that will match the detail of the dress with colored stones or pearls in gold or
silver mounts. Today we see a trend that the bigger the earring the less need
for a necklace. However, the trendy "Y" necklaces are available today
in many colors and styles. Shoes should always complement the color of the skirt
of the dress (giving you a slimmer more complete look) and when done well, you
should never see the feet.
With
the resurgence of the "Jackie O" look, gloves are making a big
comeback. They are truly a beautiful addition, but remember in the summer it is
hot and sometimes not as appealing as you might think. Colored gloves are
showing well, but dye lots are tricky and sometimes exact matches are not
available. White, ivory, and black gloves are always elegant and readily
available in satin and matte finishes to compliment several fabric choices on
the market today.
As we continue to accessorize this wonderful
event, what about favors for the reception? The old standbys, matches and
bookmarks, are available in many colors and styles today, but did you ever think
about individual chocolates, lollipops, or even water bottles for the fitness
enthusiast personalized with the bride and grooms name and wedding date? And
what about rice roses (actually filled with birdseed) to toss at the newlyweds
as they leave or beautiful bubbles to blow as well wishes for the bride and
groom?
Special gifts for all your attendants and friends
who helped make this an event to remember are also important accessories. A
small token thank-you gift for your bridal shower hostesses could include
personal stationery, ever popular Angel pins, or pretty trinket boxes.
Attendant
gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen might include jewelry, personal bath
items or perfume bottles for the bridesmaids and koozies, tire gauges, golf
balls, or other sports items for the groomsmen.
Never forget your parents--without them you would
not be and certainly would not be having such a wonderful day. Beautiful framed
calligraphy poems and expressions of love for them, hankies for both moms and
dads, flowers, and special letters of appreciation are all wonderful and
cherished gifts.
Whatever accessories you choose to help commemorate your special day will be
fine. There are no rules or regulations as long as it is in good taste. Have a
wonderful wedding! |
