Bridal Registry::

Getting The Word Out... The tried-and-true method of getting the word out about your Bridal Registry is word of mouth. Once you've registered, tell anyone who is close to you { i.e., parents, bridal party} and provide them a comprehensive list of your registry sources. Included in that list should be the names, addresses, contact information {phone number, internet address}. Most people know to ask a couple or their close family and friends.
As tempting as it may seem and despite that store personnel may tell you that it is okay: Do not include registry lists of information of any kind about gifts in your wedding invitation.
Some guests may be offended by the seemingly overt emphasis on the gift than them joining in the celebration of your union.

{Wed} iquette Wednesday

Musical TIDBITS... {photos via {.S.T.U.F.F.}::special Thanx}

~~~ Use music to further the theme or location of your wedding. For example:

** Island location... try Steel drums or a Reggae band

** Country setting...try Bluegrass of folk band

** City / Urban venue...think Jazz band

** for something more unique try these....Barbershop Quartet, Mariachi Band,

Church Choir, High School Band + Choir, University marching band. The list

is endless. What are some of your ideas for carrying out your theme through

music? Share your ideas via comments.

~~~ Have you thought of...

... the many non-musical ways to entertain your invited guests. Whether your guests are taking pictures of themselves in a photo booth or filming/photographing you and/or other guests with disposeable camera that has been left each place setting {as a favor}
... sleight-of-hand magicians/illusionists, fortune tellers,tarot card readers and dance instructor can also provide a great way to get you guests involved.
The important thing to keep in mind when having a non-musical reception is that, guests who can make their own fun, make a party more entertaining. So be certain to thoroughly think through the guest list and make certain that every invited guest could be the life of the party on their merit!

~~~About the 'Tip Thing'

...should you decide to tip your DJ and/or Band, remember that gratuity should be given, in cash, at the end of the evening. Set aside the money beforehand and designate your planner to be in charge of distributing the funds. The recommended tip amount is fifteen percent, minimally {not to exceed one hundred fifty dollars per person}

~~~About the 'Dancing Thing'...here's the secret...
~~~To assure that your guests have a great time at your reception, note that guests follow your lead. If the two of you keep dancing, your Guests will too!!!

{Wed} iquette Wednesday

FOOD for THOUGHT...

On your way to the menu tasting? Although very flavorful and fun, this can be one of the great areas of stress during your planning process. There is at least one stress busting solution that will keep this palatable task fun and filling: Limit the number of "tasters" that accompany you during this activity. You know the saying...too many cooks...{you know the rest}. By inviting family, bridal party and friends to this tasty feast, you are surely inviting a host of conflicting tastes, preferences and, definitely, opinions.

In a few words, keep the tasting experience and decision between you and your fiance'.

{Wed} iquette Wednesday

WHAT TO WEAR?

You've taken care of the who, what and when. Now it's time for the wear. Finding the perfect gown is a cherished rite of passage during the arduous planning of your wedding. Before you plop down that large chunk of cash for "The Dress", give some thought to your personal style. There are two rules are thumb when it comes to this:*You want to look like yourself on your wedding day. Stay true to your personality and personal taste. And, *choose a gown that looks good on you. You may have fallen for the idea of the strapless gown; however, if baring your arms and decolletage is not within your comfort zone, then this is definitely not your dream gown.
While shopping for the all-important dress keep a couple of things in mind. Hit the bridal ateliers with your own bridal 'look book'. This prized book contains magazine clippings, photos from other weddings, fabric swatches and color palettes. Bring along anything that will get your concept of your perfect dress across to the sales staff. Be completely candid and frank about your budget from the start. This saves a lot of time and heartache {nothing like spending lots of time on a dress that you'll never purchase}.