Delicious Tropical Cocktails For Your Beach Wedding

Beach weddings aren't complete without an array of cool, refreshing and delectable tropical cocktails but the list of what you can serve at your beach wedding reception is miles long! At our wedding, I didn't even know the hotel was going to serve cocktails, thought it was only canapes and cold drinks. I had PIÑA COLADA before we had our photo shoots!

Considering that my family doesn't drink alcohol, they didn't realize there was an alcohol on any choice of drinks, they enjoyed it though! Without knowing that it would give them a kick after having a glass or two, by 10pm I saw my mother and sister were dancing already with the singers, oh dear. While they didn't manage to stay until midnight with us - "MIDNIGHT BY THE BEACH", staring at the moon and the stars while finishing all the cocktails.

How do you know what would be good and what would make guests cringe? Not to worry - here's a simple and easy list of delicious cocktails that your guests will love sipping next to the shoreline as they celebrate your special day with you.

BLUE HAWAIIAN COCKTAIL This delicious cocktail is a bright blue and puts even the brightest Caribbean waters to shame. 1 ounce pineapple juice 1 ounce white rum 1 ounce cream of coconut 1 tsp sugar (or more if you like it sweet) 1/2 ounce blue Curaco Shake ingredients together and pour over crushed ice. Garnish as desired with pineapple slices, cherries or umbrellas. PIÑA COLADAThis classic beach style cocktail is a must at any beach wedding reception. 6 ounces white rum 8 ounces coconut cream 8 ounces pineapple juice 3 cups of ice Pineapple slices Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Garnish with pineapple slices and anything else you like! GREEN DRAGONThis unique drink is simple to make but absolutely delicious - and puts an untraditional spin on classic champagne! 1 ounce Midori melon liquor 4-5 ounces champagne of your choice Serve in a champagne glass or martini glass and garnish with orchids or other types of tropical flowers. "SEX ON THE BEACH" COCKTAILThis enormously fun tropical cocktail is perfect for beach weddings - it will give your guests an idea of what you and your new husband will be doing afterwards! 2 ounces orange juice 1/2 ounce peach schnapps 2 ounces cranberry juice 1 1/2 ounces vodka 1/2 cup crushed ice Mix ingredients slowly over a highball glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with cherries, pineapple slices, orange wedges or any other garnish of your choice. TROPICAL ITCH COCKTAILMix it up with this hilarious and delicious cocktail. 1 ounce white rum 1 ounce vodka 1/2 ounce Grand Marnier (Orange curaco will also do) 4 ounces passion fruit juice Serve this cocktail with a backscratcher in the glass!

There are a great number of delicious tropical cocktails that you can serve at your beach wedding reception - a great way to find out new and exciting cocktail recipes is to ask your bartender. Even better, ask your bartender if he or she can whip up a fun, new cocktail with you and your husband in mind. Name it after your new marriage and let your guests have this drink on the house! Incorporate your personalities into it by choosing fun, whimsical liquors and garnishes that blend well together.

No matter what types of cocktails you choose to serve at your beach wedding reception, your guests will enjoy each and every one of them.

Unique Beach Wedding Cakes

First thing that comes to our mind when talking about BEACH WEDDING CAKES - should be unique, interesting, different from the normal cake, and putting something that shows anything you could find on the beach, is the main thing here. Mostly, SHELLS in addition to this traditional ribbons to accentuate your motif. When it comes to wedding cakes, long gone are the days of following tradition. Since you are considering a beach wedding cake, you are obviously not a slave to those traditions. so... let's stray from the 'norm' and be adventurous then! One thing to remember....there are no rules! If there are, well, rules are made to be broken.

Photo below was my wedding cake. We didn't ask for a big one though, since we were only a total of at least 30 people! I'm sure next you would have in mind is, are they real shells Madz? NO! They were all hardened icing, molded and shaped with different shell types. Clever huh!

Beach wedding cakes can be anything you want them to be! At the end of the day, it's your day. You can have whatever you want to have, make the most of every resources you've got in terms of ideas. Be creative and adventurous, make yours as distinctive than the rest.
What Size?

How many guests are you planning to have? If you have your beach wedding cakes made professionally it can range in price anywhere from $2.00 to $15.00 per slice. A "slice" is normally considered to be 2 ounces or, approximately 4" x 2". The range in price will depend on how much intricate detail you want on it. If the cake you choose is very labor intensive, you can expect higher prices. If you are on a tight budget, keep it simple!

What Shape?

Beach wedding cakes can be any size, shape or description. Be creative. If you have an idea for your cake, sketch it out on paper and take it to that talented friend, relative or your chosen bakery. If you can imagine it, someone can make it!Do not limit your thinking to a two or three tier cake. It can be round, square, a sheet cake, a sculpted cake, individual mini cakes, cupcakes or even cookies! Some brides even choose a one or two layer, individual wedding cake on each guest table rather than the traditional large cake at the head table. This is a nice idea because it also serves as the table centerpiece. This eliminates the added expense associated with having a wedding centerpiece at each table! A couple of things to keep in mind though...

Beach Wedding Makeup Tips

One of the worries "brides-to-be" can sometimes have is "the looks" she may have on her big day! While every bride wants to look beautiful on her wedding day and fears the wrong choice will spoil the look of the whole wedding attire. This is why MAKEUP and HAIR DRY RUN is becoming an A-list the brides-to-be must do. Like myself, I had my make-up and hair dry run in the Philippines when I took a two weeks interruption from work to get everything done, my gown measurement, buy all the accessories needed, etc.

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life and the makeup you choose for that special day will be reflected for years to come in your precious wedding photographs, so naturally, you want it to be nothing less than perfect. Beach brides face a little bit more of a challenge when choosing their wedding day makeup look than brides with other wedding venues, because essentially you're competing against the elements. You don't want makeup foundation and concealer to melt or smear in the sun and you don't want your skin to appear thick and cakey. Here's some tips to help you create the perfect beach wedding look.

Get A Sexy, Natural Glow

Whether it's a gradual tan from a lotion that provides a subtle glow, a glamorous spray tan or even a traditional UV tan, a natural looking glow will be your best asset on your wedding day. Having skin that looks sun kissed before you step into the sun will make you look and feel even more like a beach bride. Having a great tan not only looks spectacular but will help hide flaws that would be seen on paler skin.

Tip: Go for something subtle and natural looking and be careful not to get too dark. If you plan on using self tanners or getting a spray tan, test it out well before the big day so you won't be surprised by the results.

Use Tinted Moisturizer

For beach brides, tinted moisturizer is an absolute must have. Traditional foundation can look heavy and inappropriate when you're on the beach and you'll feel like you have a mask on. Tinted moisturizer will even out your skin tone and hide flaws without going on too thick.

Bronzer, Bronzer, Bronzer

Bronzer will give you great highlights, catching the sun and drawing the eye to all the right places. Use bronzer on your cheeks, nose, forehead and collarbones for a gorgeous sheen.

Tip: Use a light bronzer. A dark one will look patchy and uneven.

Lip Gloss, Not Lipstick

Many brides opt for a nice, subtle lip color that matches or accents their blush for their wedding look. Even light lip color tends to be too heavy for beach brides. Go with a gorgeous, wet looking gloss with very minimal tint - if any - for a subtly sexy pout. Great lip glosses are thick instead of thin and have a very slight metallic sheen to them

Black Is Out, Brown Is In

Black eyeliner and mascara also tend to be very heavy on the face if you're planning a ceremony on the beach. Instead of going with black, try using an espresso or latte colored pencil and mascara for a more natural look. If you plan on using false eyelashes, try using the individual lashes instead of a full set. They can be put on in small sections to help add depth and mystery to your eyes without going overboard.

When you're planning out your beach wedding makeup look, less truly is more. Go with neutral tones instead of bold colors and don't overdo it. The end result will be subtly sexy and beautiful - perfect for the big day.

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Helpful Articles for your Beach Wedding Planning:
10 Unique Ideas For Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Ceremony Ideas
Beach Wedding Brides
Flower Guide For Your Beach Wedding
Part III: My Wedding Day Photo Shoots

Beach Wedding Bouquets

This was my BEACH WEDDING BOUQUET. This is one of the weddings "must have" that you don't stress about, most flower shops or all bouquet experts know much on what sort of style, flowers, or colors that would match your theme! It doesn't have to be complicated, just know what's available on the spot and work from there. As for myself, it was our very first to visit Mauritius (our wedding venue), apparently, we didn't know exactly what sort of flowers I was going to have for my wedding! Since we've got to be there at least 3 days before our big day (minimum days arrival requirements for destination weddings), we had time to see the flower shop and chose ourselves, showed us their photographs of samples and to choose from there.

A beach theme wedding is, by nature - SIMPLE... There aren't a lot of decorations or sparkling lights - in essence, you're using the beautiful beach and the magnificence and simplicity of the ocean as your wedding backdrop. There are a few things that stand out at a beach wedding though, the bride's bouquet being one of them. It is one of the largest floral arrangements at a beach theme wedding ceremony and during your walk down the sandy aisle, everyone's going to be eyeing it. Here's how to select excellent flowers for your beach bridal bouquet that will "wow."

Tropical Colors

Many beach brides simply use white as their overall color, incorporating that into the bridal dress, the groom's tuxedo and even into the flowers. This usually gives a light, sophisticated aura to a beach theme wedding. Some brides, however, crave a little bit more than what white alone can give them. A perfect place to incorporate colors into your beach theme wedding ceremony is in the bridal bouquet itself. Select tropical flowers such as birds of paradise, or simply use flowers that are brightly colored. Orange and pink tiger lilies are excellent in beach bridal bouquets, while vibrantly tipped roses can really be eye catching. Talk to your florist or use your imagination to come up with a colorful, tropical bridal bouquet that brings out the best of the beach.

"Beachy" Additions

There's nothing that says that a beach bouquet has to consist only of flowers - don't limit yourself! Incorporate large, tropical leaves, pearls or even seashells. Pearls are a great addition to a white bouquet, but tropical leaves edging brightly colored flowers are a great touch. You can use a combination of leaves, pearls, seashells or other types of beach items in your bouquet, just remember to let them be accents and not let them take over the entire bouquet. Alternatively, a bouquet made entirely out of seashells and pearls can be an extremely unique and one of a kind beach wedding bouquet.

Shape and Size

The shape and size of your beach bouquet can vary, depending on how bold you want to be. A smaller, simple wedding calls for a smaller bouquet, but if you want your bouquet to be the focal point of the ceremony, feel free to make it larger and more noticeable. A cascading bouquet is a beautiful addition to any beach wedding ceremony, mimicking the cascade of the ocean waves themselves, but a handheld beach bridal bouquet is just as classy.

Talk to your florist and use your creativity to come up with different styles of beach bride bouquets that you like! Thumb through a few bridal magazines and pick out a few different bouquet elements that you like and discuss with your florist how to bring those elements together for a truly unique and one of a kind bouquet. A silk bouquet is a good option if you want a keepsake, but fresh flowers truly embrace the spirit of beauty and simplicity of the beach!

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Helpful Articles for your Beach Wedding Planning:
Choosing Your Bridal Buoquet
Wedding Theme Color Collections
Peach-Orange-Cream Theme of My Beach Wedding
7 Ways of Using Flowers At Your Beach Wedding
10 Unique Ideas For Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Ceremony Ideas
Beach Wedding Brides
Flower Guide For Your Beach Wedding
The Wedding Flower Guide For Every Bride

7 Ways Of Using Flowers At Your Beach Wedding

Based on my own experience of my own wedding by the beach, FLOWERS rather play a huge part of my beach theme wedding, and for normal beach weddings anywhere. I didn't concentrate much on working on the flowers to put on the aisle or at the venue, my only worry was my BOUQUET and for BRIDESMAIDS too.

During my early 20's, I used to see beach weddings which were very simple. Not many brides opt to have a beach theme wedding so they can save money, but because they wanted to have a very unique wedding to treasure for a lifetime, or because they’d rather not have a huge chapel ceremony. Fortunately, with beach theme weddings, the ocean serves as a backdrop, minimizing the need for decorations. With a few simple arrangements, you can make your beach wedding ceremony and reception stand out from the crowd.

Photo below was an example of how we decorated our beach wedding, we exchanged our vows surrounded with fresh flowers....

1. Living Plants
So many brides use cut flowers for beach wedding reception centerpieces that it has become the tradition. You can actually use living plants, however, as your reception centerpieces and even allow the guests to take them home after the festivities. This is a greener and cheaper way to create the look you want for your beach theme wedding!

2. Table Arrangements

Centerpieces on the beach wedding reception tables are very traditional, but depending on your table set up, you might be able to attach table arrangements to the edge of your table. This is a great way to display floral sprays! If you can’t use them for every table, you can really make an impression by using floral sprays on the edge of the cake table and the bride and groom’s table.

3. Incorporate Flower Balls

Flower balls are a unique way to use flowers at your wedding, whether you choose to use silk flowers or fresh ones. They’re easy to make – you can even make them yourself – and they look great at your wedding. You can use them as bridesmaid bouquets or hanging arrangements and they’re versatile enough to go anywhere.

4. Hanging Arrangements

Hanging arrangements add vertical depth to your wedding ceremony and reception, drawing the eye upwards and making your décor appear fuller, even if the décor is quite simple. This is a great way to fill out a simple beach wedding. Use plant hanging stands or other types of hanging stands to line the aisles with floral arrangements that sway above the guests, or do something similar at the altar for a more unique look.

5. Flank Arrangements

You can use pedestals or other types of stands to create floral flank arrangements that normally stand where bridesmaids and groomsmen stand. This is a great way to add depth to your ceremony if you don’t have bridesmaids or groomsmen or if your wedding is small.

6. Aisle Flowers

Consider using more than just rose petals to sprinkle down the sandy aisle. You can create your aisle with rows of small bouquets, or you can simply use a lush carpet of flower petals. This will draw attention to you as you walk down the aisle.

7. Pedestal Flowers

Skip the traditional wedding arch and instead use a pedestal with a lovely flower arrangement on top. The height of a pedestal should come up to your knees or thighs, but no higher than your waist. This puts the focus on you and your groom rather than your ceremony flowers, yet still gives you that special touch that ties everything together.

Make yours as distinctive as possible. This may be one of the major expenses you have to consider, but it is worth paying much money after looking at your photographs.

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Helpful Articles for your Beach Wedding Planning:
10 Unique Ideas For Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Ceremony Ideas
Beach Wedding Brides
Flower Guide For Your Beach Wedding
The Wedding Flower Guide For Every Bride
My Wedding Day - Part IV: Reception By The Beach
My Tips To Have A Very Unique Beach Wedding
Choosing Your Beach Wedding Gown
My Wedding Day - Part II: Ceremony By the Beach
My Wedding Day - Part I: Procession Going To The Beach

10 Unique Ideas For Beach Wedding Reception

When I was still planning my own wedding, after we have had decided to have a beach wedding, I WAS EXTREMELY EXCITED EVERY MOMENT IN MY PLANNING PERIOD! I remember I used to imagine what was gonna be like when we get to Mauritius. In fact, I even fantasized and envisioned for tens of sleeping nights, it was like my eyes were closed but my mind and spirit were flying. Thanks God it was finally over, this was my very first feelings the moment everybody had flown back to their respective countries!

My BEACH WEDDING RECEPTION was the finale of all of my hard work and the celebration of the union between my husband and myself. Of course, we wanted or you want it to be perfect in every way possible! Here are 10 unique ways to decorate your beach theme wedding, without overstretching your wedding budget. These are all based on my own experience, though our reception area was all organized by the resort personnel, which really turned out to be ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!!

Please click here to read the story of my Wedding Reception by the Beach of Le Canonnier in Mauritius....Enjoy reading...


1. Remember to have fun at your beach theme wedding reception! Your wedding is about you - plan ahead so there are people around to take care of the details and you can relax and enjoy your new husband and your celebration.


2. Consider having your beach wedding reception much later in the evening, when the sun is well on its way to setting. It's important to keep your guests cool and comfortable and outdoor temperatures are at their highest in the afternoon and early evening.

3. Serve a variety of fresh fruits and light fare, such as salads. Beach wedding receptions tend to be warmer and most guests won't want to dine on heavy foods like steaks and chicken.

4. You should also skip the confetti. Like balloons, confetti is dangerous to the local environment and wildlife and is more difficult to clean up. Unless you're having an indoor beach wedding reception, you're better off without confetti altogether.

5. Unless you're going with a whimsical theme, for a beach theme wedding reception you're better off going without balloons. Not only are these dangerous for the environment and wildlife should they get loose and pop, they don't do an elegant beach wedding justice.

6. For an elegant look, keep your beach wedding reception décor to a minimum. Overwhelming the area with dozens of trinkets and lots of colors will only serve to make your décor look to busy or thrown together.

7. Use real, natural sea finds for your beach wedding reception table decoration instead of purchasing bags of seashells, dried starfish or even sand dollars. Go out on the beach in the early morning and see what you can find - spend some time cleaning them and letting them dry. They'll make incredibly inexpensive yet beautiful decorations!

8. Try incorporating lanterns instead of candles. Candles can be blown out easily, even by just a simple gust of wind. Lanterns offer protection for the flame and many of them even last longer than candles, so your reception will be elegantly lit well into the night.

9. Consider a pool side beach reception. Bear in mind that a reception right on the sand can be quite messy - sand is going to go everywhere. Many resorts and destinations offer pools and areas that are right next to the beach - offering you incredible beach views while keeping your reception perfect.

10. Use white! White is the most traditional and popular wedding colors, and it works beautifully for beach theme wedding receptions. Use white table linens, napkins, china and even flowers. To jazz up an all white beach theme reception, try employing a number of different textures, such as lace and satin.

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Related articles:
My Wedding Day Part IV: Reception By The Beach
Part I: Procession (Marching Going to the Beach)
Part II: My Wedding Ceremony (By the Beach)
Part III: My Wedding Day Photo Shoots
Tips To Have A Unique Beach Wedding Reception
Making The Best of Your Hot Summer Wedding
Tips For A Perfect Beach Wedding
Planning A Destination Wedding

Beach Wedding Ceremony Ideas

Your BEACH WEDDING is going to be one of the most important days of your life, not only that - to have a BEACH WEDDING IS ONE OF A KIND, so make the most of your time. You want it to be perfect and completely, uniquely you. That's part of what having a beach wedding is all about - you're trying to break out of that cookie cutter wedding mold. Here are a few great ideas to help make your beach wedding ceremony extra special.

Canopies
Many beach brides have canopies over their altar. If the canopy is swathed in light, shimmering fabric, it can add just the right effect to a beach ceremony. Imagine walking down the aisle, covered entirely by delicate canopies gently fluttering in the wind! A canopy over the entire aisle, accented with gorgeous tropical flowers, can create a perfectly romantic feel.

Late Afternoon Ceremonies

While getting married underneath the beautiful, bright sunlight that only a beach has to offer in the middle of the day, the beach can be just as romantic at dusk. Consider having a sunset wedding on the beach - if your location is right, you might be able to have your ceremony right in front of the sun setting over the ocean! Decorate your beach theme ceremony with lots of torches and lanterns to create a super sensual effect.

Flower Petal Aisle

Instead of simply sprinkling your beach wedding aisle with rose or flower petals, why not create a thick, lush carpet of petals that will make you feel like you're walking on air? While the expense is a little extra, the effect it has on your beach theme wedding is truly worth it. It will add both dimension and depth to your ceremony, truly setting you apart from the crowd.

Here are some collections, with matching color motifs! It may be difficult to choose a color combination, but in these collections, would help you to decide easier.Use your wedding to express you and your groom's personalities and you can definitely guarantee that your wedding will be like no other! Incorporating even the smallest details - no matter how small - is what will help make your wedding extra special for both you and your guests. Above all, relax and have fun with your planning!

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Related articles:
My Wedding Day Part 1: Procession Going To The Beach
My Wedding Day Part II: Wedding Ceremony By The Beach
My Wedding Day Part III: Photo Shoots
My Wedding Day Part IV: Reception By The Beach
Wedding Theme Collections
Determining Your Wedding Theme
Choosing Your Beach Wedding Gown
Planning A Destination Wedding
Choosing Your Bridal Bouquet
Tips To Have A Very Unique Beach Wedding
The Secret of a Successful Planning Your Own Wedding
Making The Best of Your Hot Summer Wedding
Tips For A Perfect Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Brides
Wedding Planning Tips (1-8 Weeks)
Wedding Planning Tips (2-4 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (4-6 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (6-9 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips For The Brides
Wedding Preparations - Questions to Ask
My Own Wedding Preparations

"The Pride of Hingotanan Bohol" - My Life's Journey to Success: My Sister's WEDDING at CHRISTMAS in BOHOL

"The Pride of Hingotanan Bohol" - My Life's Journey to Success: My Sister's WEDDING at CHRISTMAS in BOHOL

Basic Preparation Every Bride/Groom Should Do

That's myself, my girls and may parents walking down going to the beach to finally meet the man of my dream. I felt as though I was the most beautiful and sexiest woman during that day...:) This is our very own day, no other than...
Every bride/groom wants to look beautiful when they walk down the aisle. When you are paying thousands of dollars for photographs, you may as well do your best! Chances are, he/she loves you just the way you are, but there are some considerations you can make to ensure you are on top of your game.

EXERCISE

Selecting a dress that will make you look and feel great is an important first step. But what happens when you look in the mirror and notice trouble spots like saggy arms or unsightly folds in your back? When this happens it’s not uncommon for brides to try quick-fix diets to help them get in shape. Unfortunately, many dieting brides make fitness mistakes that not only prevent them from reaching their goals but also cause unnecessary stress and sometimes even illness. Those are two things no bride needs! Here are five of the most common diet mistakes as well as some tips to help you avoid them.

Too much, too late. One of the most important things to remember if you are trying to lose weight is to start early. For example, don’t try to lose 20 pounds two months before the big day. The key is to plan ahead so that you can lose the weight (or just tone up) gradually. So if you’re dream-wedding day includes you being in great shape, then include fitness as a “to-do” on your overall wedding checklist. That way it will be a priority in your wedding planning. No matter how far or close your wedding day may be, it is always beneficial to stick to an exercise regime to ensure that your body and mind are in top working order. Brides/grooms who need to shed some kilos fast could try cutting carbohydrates and starchy foods from their diet, while remembering to drink lots of fresh water and keeping up their recommended 30 minutes of physical activity per day. Those with a bit longer to plan may opt to take up a personal training regime with a qualified trainer. Most local gyms can recommend a personal trainer in your area, and diet is often included in the training regime. Setting unachievable goals. Many women get engaged and begin imagining themselves drastically thinner or more sculpted. Be realistic with yourself. If you’ve never been a size 6 in your life, then it is probably unrealistic to think you can magically transform just because you are getting married. And, do you really want to look so different on your wedding day that most people (including your fiancé) hardly recognize you? Radical diets or fitness programs. Brides typically are short on time and long on to-do lists. This leads many to try unhealthy fitness programs or starvation diets. Don’t be tempted by diets that promise quick, drastic results with little effort from you. You should avoid any programs that suggest taking “diet” pills or eating unbalanced meals (like eating only cabbage soup for a week). And, don’t be lured into trying dangerous things, like laxatives. Not exercising. It’s very easy for brides to say “I don’t have time to exercise” or “I’m too tired to exercise”. But diet and exercise should always go hand in hand. Consider them to be like yin and yang. Without activity your body can’t burn as many calories. If you are very short on time, try to exercise in small 10-minute bursts throughout the day. And, keep in mind that little things help too, like taking the stairs or parking at the outer edge of the mall parking lot. Plus, if you are tired from all of your planning, exercise will help give you back some energy. Skipping Meals It’s not uncommon to get caught up in your planning and then realize at 9 p.m. (as your head begins to ache) that you haven’t eaten a thing all day. While it may not be an uncommon scenario, it is unavoidable. Not only is skipping meals unhealthy, it can lead to binge eating. That often means eating very fattening foods and/or overeating all at once. To avoid this, try packing light snacks to keep on hand throughout the day. Good examples include carrot sticks, cheese strings, peanut butter on crackers, etc. Getting in shape doesn’t have to be complicated and it doesn’t require a lot of time. If you are trying to lose weight or firm up before your wedding, below are some sample plans to help you get started. Keep in mind that the most important thing is for a bride to feel good about herself. And no matter what size or shape, all brides are beautiful on their wedding day!

SKINCARE

Doing all you can to achieve a healthy glow before your wedding day is a worthwhile pursuit. Daily exfoliation is recommended in the lead up to your wedding, and some brides/grooms also opt for a facial in the fortnight before the big day.

Be careful not to have your eyebrows waxed on the day of the wedding, as large red marks can look unsightly in photographs! A gentle exfoliation, cleanse, and moisturizing regime should be best to keep your skin supple for the big day.

CLOTHING

If you are a bride, have your dress and underwear fitted by a professional! Ill-fitted dresses or incorrect undergarments can turn the perfect wedding day into a nightmare, and you may not even realise it until you get your photos back!

Ensure you attend regular dress fittings in the lead up to your wedding day, even if your dress was bought off-the-rack. It could still pay to have it altered to fit your individual body shape. Ask your dressmaker for tips on the right underwear and perhaps even order the garments from the dressmaker - as they have the best idea of bridal underwear necessities!

Shoes also need to be comfortable. Not only will you be exchanging your vows in them, but you will be traipsing around town to get photos taken and kicking up your heels on the dance floor at the reception. Your shoes need to do more than match your dress, they must be comfortable and the correct size!

For grooms, suit fitting is just as important as getting the bride’s dress right. Ensure you have a tailor fit your suit and undershirt to your individual size. There is nothing worse than coat tails that drag on the ground or trouser legs that finish halfway between the knee and the ankle! Grooms should also give their shoes a good shine before the big day - look your best!

SOUL

Preparing for a wedding can be an exhausting task. Ensure that you keep communicating with each other and make joint decisions about what your perfect wedding day will hold. It is also great to put aside some time for non-wedding related pursuits, such as sports, or spending time with friends and family.

Meditation and massage can also be helpful in the lead up to your big day and ensure that both the bride and groom are happy, glowing and feeling their absolute best!
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Related articles:
Wedding Planning Tips (1-8 Weeks)
Wedding Planning Tips (2-4 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (4-6 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (6-9 Months) Wedding Planning Tips For The Brides
Wedding Preparations - Questions to Ask
My Own Wedding Preparations
Wedding Theme Collections
Determining Your Wedding Theme
Choosing Your Beach Wedding Gown
Planning A Destination Wedding
Choosing Your Bridal Bouquet
Tips To Have A Very Unique Beach Wedding
The Secret of a Successful Planning Your Own Wedding
Making The Best of Your Hot Summer Wedding Tips For A Perfect Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Brides

How to Look Great On Your Wedding Day

Brides have always diverse opinion on various ways how to look great on their big day!! But I know one thing, that every bride wants to look perfect on her wedding day. This is a once in a lifetime experience, even if it is your third or fourth go, you still want to look your absolute best on the day! Looking good for the biggest day of your life is something which requires careful preparation by both the bride and the groom.

For me looking great on your wedding day means being radiant, relaxed, and ready to start a brand new existence with the person whom you've chosen to spend the rest of your entire life. Your hair, nail, makep, dress - and how you'd look in that dress - are all part of becoming the bride you wanted to be on that on that special day. Since photographs are taken on that day remain part of your life forever, it's just important to feel and look your best!

Your wedding dress if one of the most important items in your wedding plan. Make sure to take enough time to choose one that suits you best - not your best friend, not your bridesmaid, your maid of honor, and not your mother. For sure, you'll want a dress in which you can stand, walk and dance without worrying about the "wardrobe malfunctions" or causing your discomfort. Allow necessary time if you decide on having the dress made, but even if bought "off the rack", you still need time for tailoring or any adjustments to be made if any.

Like mine, I had to file for a two-week interruption from work (to fly to Philippines all the way from Africa), had my gown finalized in terms of style and my measurements!

Do not empower your dress and your headpiece with a flamboyant hair style or color that overwhelms everything else. Keep it simple and classic, and remember to practice the look you want at home or with your stylist before the wedding day! I remember when I was still on the process of choosing the gown I ever wanted to wear, I used to look at every gown style I see on the net and by way of imagining myself wearing that particular dress!

Have your nails professionally manicured the day before your big day. This is one thing you do not want to do far in advance right? Reduce the chances of a broken nail, chipped polish, of if using applied nails one coming off, by having your manicure as late as possible. Your hands will be one of the focus of attentions when showing off your new wedding ring, and for the photos!

Make up is the last thing you'll make to worry over, and that comes on the big day itself. Don't try to transform yourself into a different person with dramatic eye makeup or dazzling lipstick. Do it light, more natural is better! Use a slightly heavier hand than with your usual daytime makeup so your photos won't have you appearing washed-out looking, but don't overdo it! Avoid deep red lipstick, as well as too pale-pink. Frosted eye shadows or lipsticks are a definite NO!Make sure to buy a new mascara to avoid clumping, hand it over to your hairdresser or you do it yourself. ALSO, if you ever have a very sensitive skin, this is NOT the time to try a new brand, and the last thing you want to do is head for the altar with blotches or zits thanks to an allergic reaction! :)

The night before your wedding is not the time for partying, so get eight hours of restful sleep. If you're having a rehearsal dinner, or a bachelorette bash, make sure that it ends early, and drink slightly, or better yet, not at all!

Don't gorge yourself the night before. We all know that there might be any strange forces at work which will try to make your wedding gown just a wee bit snug in the morning. To overcome excitement and nerves, try taking a long walk - it can help with prenuptial jitters. A relaxing bath with soothing background music, a cup of herbal tea, and you should be ready to doze off with images of a happy future marriage in your dreams.

DON'T GET TOO EXCITED, TRY TO RELAX AND DO EVERYTHING IN PROPER ORDER. AVOID PANICKING...With these simple tips, I'm sure you will have a perfect wedding of your dream and may this day be the beginning of a lifetime joy and happiness!
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Related articles:
My Wedding Day Part 1: Procession Going To The Beach
My Wedding Day Part II: Wedding Ceremony By The Beach
My Wedding Day Part III: Photo Shoots
My Wedding Day Part IV: Reception By The Beach
Wedding Theme Collections
Determining Your Wedding Theme
Choosing Your Beach Wedding Gown
Planning A Destination Wedding
Choosing Your Bridal Bouquet
Tips To Have A Very Unique Beach Wedding
The Secret of a Successful Planning Your Own Wedding
Making The Best of Your Hot Summer Wedding
Tips For A Perfect Beach Wedding
Beach Wedding Brides
Wedding Planning Tips (1-8 Weeks)
Wedding Planning Tips (2-4 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (4-6 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips (6-9 Months)
Wedding Planning Tips For The Brides
Wedding Preparations - Questions to Ask
My Own Wedding Preparations

Guide In Buying A Diamond "Engagement Ring"

Attention ladies who are getting engaged or on your way to finally put your dream ring on your finger, I have collected some tips and ideas what to look for your ring, so as to the guys who are the ones whose pockets are at stake!

We are not talking about hundreds of dollars here, thousands to loose or to gain (if we know all the basics) in exchange of this wonderful stone in just one piece of ring. So we deserve to know all these important information about diamonds.

For the guys: It doesn't matter if its going to be a surprise proposal and have the ring ready with you, or you could opt as "ring to follow" and take your fiance with you to the stores with loads of potentials that she might like. Paying attention to her jewelry likes and dislikes is the first big step towards finding her the perfect engagement ring.

Buying a diamond is one of the most expensive purchases you are going to make. Experts say, acquiring knowledge of the 4C's is crucial before purchasing any diamond: carat weight, diamond clarity, diamond color and diamond cut (not shape). Other advanced characteristics of diamonds include diamond fluorescence and diamond enhancements. By understanding each diamond characteristic and knowing which questions to ask when purchasing a diamond, you are much more empowered when it comes time to make your diamond investment.

4C's of Diamond Quality

Diamonds are graded by four characteristics: cut, carat (weight), clarity, and color. All four of these properties determine how much a diamond is worth.

• Cut - What is the proportion of the diamond? Round brilliant diamonds are commonly cut with 58 facets. The better proportioned these facets are on the diamond, the more light will be reflected back to the viewer's eye. This is extremely important. When cut properly, the diamond will sparkle more. Diamond cuts are measured by the table percentage, so always ask for it. A good table percentage is between 55-60%. Cut also refers to the shape such as: round, pear, and oval.
  If you are having a diamond mounted, write down the measurements of your stone. Measurements never change. Measure the stone after it is mounted and verify that it matches the appraisal and/or certificate.

• Carat - How big is the diamond? Larger diamonds often cost more per carat due to their size. There are 100 points to a carat. Hence a 50 point diamond is 1/2 a carat. (There are 5 carats to a gram.) Always get the actual point size of a diamond rather than a fractional weight. Sometimes jewelers will try to sell a .90 diamond as a 1 carat diamond. A .90 diamond should be substantially less expensive.

• Clarity - How clear is the stone? Clarity ranges from flawless (perfect) to I (included). Here is a chart:
  Flawless: perfect inside and out
  Internally Flawless: may have minor blemishes on the outside
  VVS1, VVS2: have very very small inclusions. VVS1 inclusions can only be seen through the pavilion. VVS2 inclusions are more visible.
  VS1, VS2: have very small inclusions. VS1 inclusions are harder to see than VS2.
  SI1, SI2, SI3: have small inclusions
  I1, I2, I3: have inclusions visible to the naked eye

• Color: Diamond colors generally range from D - X for white and yellow diamonds. D is the whitest. Around S they become "Fancy" yellow Diamonds. One can also find green, pink, red, blue and brown diamonds - though these are usually irradiated.

  Be certain to ask: Do you guarantee the color and clarity of your stones? Many states allow dealers to be off by one color and/or one clarity.

In addition to this, Ebay has also compiled a "Guide in Buying Diamonds", to know more...

Know Diamond Cut and Shape
Determine Diamond Carat Weight
Study Diamond Clarity
Considering Diamond Color
Spot Certified Diamonds
Maintaining Your Diamond

Consider my own experience: My husband, as a Geologist, no doubt he knew what to buy for me, however, all he wanted was for me to choose the one I would have liked, also to get the perfect size of my finger! Do I make sense to you? What does mine looks like?

1) Cut - Round Brilliant Cut
2) Carat - 0.45 Carats, as I have tried bigger ones but unfortunately, they didn't look nice on my tiny finger!
3) Clarity - VVS1 (yes its close to flawless)
4) Color - G

In a TWO-TONE 18 carat Gold (white and yellow)!

Would you be able to figure out what do mine looks like?...:)

My Personalized Anniversary Gift

If you google "Anniversary Gifts", you'd be given a hell loads of sites where you can read usefull ideas and tips, or if you want to order online, or even some romantic ideas to make yours a memorable one! Its you choice, depending on your taste and how you gonna celebrate it. As for myself, I always wanted to give some special touch, unique as possible as I could (if I can find any or can be able to do it myself), which is only limited to paper works, computer works by using my expertise in Powerpoint.

Even before I decided to have this one, I always thought of something that I can be able to put our wedding photo with matching love dedication on it, but I wasn't sure if will be made of paper or glass or wood, until I imagined a plaque-award like thing. So my sister managed to find a shop who makes personalized gifts (in Philippines), this is made of an Acrylic glass.

Madelyn & Stuart

Our Anniversary is the perfect time to
tell you what you mean to me.
How I depend on you to love me
for who I am
and believe in me for what
I hope to be.
How I feel loved each time you smile
or touch my hand and,
when I need someone to listen,
I know you'll understand.

So I celebrate this special year
of loving you,
grateful that we have the happiness
life gives to just a few.

I love you now & forever,
Madelyn

30th November

You don't have to spend a lot of money to be able to give an extraordinary present, "value doesn't count at all, its the thought that counts".

Photo above is a paper and a pen holder, which is made of the same material as the plaque style (1st photo)!

Madelyn

On our wedding day when we said "I do"
I knew I had found a true partner in you.
Someone to come home to when the day is through
Someone at the heart of everything I do.

So, not just on our anniversary
But each day all year through
I am so very grateful for
Your love - Your heart - For you!

Love always & forever,
Stuart

30th November

We Celebrated Our 1st Wedding Anniversary

Every couple would do some effort to have a memorable celebration, not necessarily a big one, but at least a romantic one, with matching "candle lighting" or with "bunch of roses", special foods on a romantic dinner together! We didn't have all I have just mentioned! Huhuhuhu, please read our story here, on how we celebrated our 1st wedding anniversary...