Viddia.com -- Stream Your Wedding Videos Online!

Viddia.com is now enabling couples to stream their wedding videos online in order to share them with friends and family. The service allows couples to share footage most attendees didn’t get to see, such as the arrival and preparations of the
wedding party and can also allow guests that couldn’t be there in person to experience the event.

Using the service is easy and is usually ccomplished by having the videographer drop a copy of the finished wedding DVD in the mail. The bride and
groom are then given a password protected website for viewing their wedding video. They also have the ability to send out email invitations to friends and family that link directly to their video viewing site. Viewers don’t necessarily have to watch the whole video, either. Each video gets divided up into chapters like the ceremony, the reception, etc. So if you want to skip right to see yourself dancing or to see the best mans’ toast it’s very easy to do! Additionally, viewers can purchase extra copies of the DVD directly from the Viddia website.

Visit Viddia.com today. You may be eligible to use the service for free!

Ice Cream Flower Girl Dress. So YUMMY! By Shelly George

Ice Cream Flower Girl Dress

This dress is adorable from all angles, especially the back with the tiny bows from the waist all the way to the hem. -Shelley George

Offered in tea length or floor length with a gathered pleat waistline. Skirt is covered in a double layer tulle and studded with accent ribbons down the back. Hidden zipper in back. Arrives with a free crinoline slip to add fullness to the skirt.

Made to order by a professional dressmaker in a custom size so it fits your flower girl perfectly.

Dress is available in white or light ivory satin or silk with coordinating tulle. You choose from dozens of fabric colors for the accent.

Fabric sample allows you to compare fabrics and colors at home before you order your dress.

"No Calorie" Chocolate for your Sweetie . . .

On a diet. Are you the guy looking for some "no calorie" chocolate for your sweetie? Got just the ticket for you : )

Aquolina Chocolovers Sweet Kiss Gift Set

Lip Service ... : ) Personalized Photo Stamps

This is the coolest thing since bread. Send your own kiss in the mail, or your picture, or a picture of: your car, your kids, your grand kids, your boat, your house, the engaged couple... whatever floats your boat. But, right now they are offering stamps with the kiss imprint of Jessica Alba and many other celebrities or you can make your own. Seal your cards and letters with a kiss!

Soul mate .... put it out there ; )

Believe it or not, I found this at Walmart. It's adorable, can be given to either the female or the male in the relationship and says exactly how we feel about our beloved : ) I like this alot and it is affordable.

Soul Mate Glass Block

If you've found your true soul mate, make it official by personalizing this elegant glass soul mate block. Inscribed with both your names after the dictionary's "soul mate" definition, this tasteful desktop accessory becomes a heartfelt keepsake.

• Laser-engraved glass block
  
• Includes the meaning of "soul mate," along with the names of 2
  people
  
• Block measures 5"W x 4"H x 3/4"D

Definition reads:

soul mate; 1. n. a person for whom one feels a deep spiritual, emotional and physical connection, esp., a lover, wife, husband, etc. 2. n. a connection for whom one feels a mutual affinity which cannot be expressed through words, i.e., [names here]

Red Velvet Cake for Valentine's Day -- U Can Make It or Buy It : ) "YUM-O"

Red Velvet Cake for Valentine's Day!

Nothing says Valentine's Day better than Red Velvet Cake. It is a real treat. If you have never tried it, you are in for a big surprise! And, you can make it yourself. The name for red velvet cake comes from its red color. The most common story about the origin of this cake sites that this cake originated at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. A guest ordered a slice and liked it so much that she asked for the recipe. The hotel gave it up and billed her $100. Furious, she spread the recipe around in chain letters. Alas, the story is not true. (According to What's Cooking America,) the hotel has no record of this incident. No matter, it is good. Note (check out What's Cooking America -- Great site!) Another point of reference ... Steel Magnolias (movie starring Julia Roberts, Tom Skerret and Sally Fields); which had the famous "bloody armadillo" groom's cake scene. If you have not seen the movie, as stated above, the groom's cake was a red velvet cake. Because the cake is "that good" below are two receipes and resources where you can just "buy it." Enjoy.

Grandmother Paul's Red Velvet Cake

Cake:

2 cups sugar

1/2 pound (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature

2 eggs

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 ounces red food coloring

2 1/2 cups cake flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon vinegar

Icing:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese

1 stick butter, softened

1 cup melted marshmallows

1 (1-pound) box confectioners' sugar

1 cup shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

Cake:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a mixing bowl, cream the sugar and butter, beat until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. Mix cocoa and food coloring together and then add to sugar mixture; mix well. Sift together flour and salt. Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk. Blend in vanilla. In a small bowl, combine baking soda and vinegar and add to mixture. Pour batter into 3 (8-inch) round greased and floured pans. Bake for 20
to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from heat and cool completely before frosting.

Icing:

Blend cream cheese and butter together in a mixing bowl. Add marshmallows and sugar and blend. Fold in coconut and nuts. Spread between layers and on top and sides of cooled cake.

Source: Paula's Home Cooking

or you can buy one:

Red
Velvet Chocolate Anniversary Cake

Sandals Beach Resort Coupon ... Nice Deal

Did you know that Lavender Flowers mean "love at first site?"

Aren't these gorgeous? Red is so Cliche'. The lavender is nice, nice, nice! And I had no idea that lavender meant "love at first site." That sells me right there. Been there, done that!

A Lavender Dozen (from Tela Flora)

Representing enchantment and desire, lavender roses convey love at first sight. Whether it’s new love or a love that never grows old, this perfect dozen says, "I’m captivated."

Twelve lavender roses with waxflower, eucalyptus and plumosus in a classic glass vase. Approximately 12" W x 10-1/2" H This item is hand-arranged and delivered by a Teleflora florist. All prices in U.S. Dollars

Item Number: TF32-4

P.S. They have some really beautiful flowers ... you may want to check them out (click here)

Get Ready For Your Beach Wedding Early

Getting Ready for Your Beach Wedding ... Early!

Feel like a fish out of water planning your seaside soiree? From selecting invitations to managing mosquitoes, we've got tips for making your beach wedding a total breeze.

KEY QUESTIONS

Have you checked local ordinances and obtained necessary permits? A wedding on the beach can be a blast -- but some prep work and research are required to pull it off without a hitch. Here's a working list of must-ask questions:

• How many guests are allowed?
• Can food be served?
• Can a tent be pitched?
• Is smoking or alcohol permitted?
• What about wheelchair access?
• Are there restrooms for guests? (You may
  have to rent portable toilets if there are no nearby public restrooms). If not, is there a dressing room in the area?
• Are electrical outlets available? If not, how can electricity be made available?
• What are the rules for lighting fires: bonfires, candles, torches, citronella, etc.?
• Who cleans up the area?
• Are pets allowed (in case you want your pooch to join in the fun)?
• What is the tide schedule? Be sure to check -- tides coming in are noisier than tides going out, plus you risk the chance of water creeping up on you as you wed. For a tide chart, visit Tidesonline.com.
• What time does the sun set? Visit here for a sunset time chart.
• Is there a time limit? If so, when does the beach close?
  
  SAVE-THE-DATE IDEAS
  
  Set the mood of your seaside affair six months in advance when you send your save-the-date cards. This way, guests can properly prepare for fun in the sun. Even if you're having a formal wedding, these cards can be casual. Play up the beach theme by filling the envelopes with a pinch of sand and small seashells. Go all out and print the essential info on a beach ball, squirt gun, plastic fish, sun visor, bathing cap, coolie, or water bottle. Or attach the card to a beach bucket, plastic shovel, starfish, mini umbrella, beach bag, sunglasses, lei, or a pair of flip-flops. Love to read? Design your save-the-date to look like a book cover -- the steamy beach reading kind. Decorate your envelopes with beach-scene stamps or stickers. Or buy return address labels with seashells, tropical fish, or palm trees.
  
  
  AN INVITATION TO A WEDDING BY THE SEA
  
  "For a beachside ceremony, you shouldn't use the phrase 'request the honor of your presence,'" advises New Jersey wedding consultant Carolyn Bodner, in regard to wording invitations. "That's reserved for ceremonies taking place in houses of worship." Instead, she suggests the following text: "Mr. and Mrs. Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their children Leigh Elizabeth and John Philip at an oceanside ceremony..." Or let your creativity take the helm and compose an original line of your own. For the design, navy blue type and embossed seashell borders or a single letterpress scallop shell at the top add nautical touches. ( Wedding Supplies you can get seashells, raffia table cloths, blow up palm trees and more here)
  
  
  CEREMONY READINGS & RITUALS
  
  Bring your setting into the ceremony with beach-inspired ideas. For readings, Anne Lindbergh relates relationships to the changing tides in Gift from the Sea, and Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet contains a passage
  describing love like a moving sea between the shores of your souls. In her book, I Do: A Guide to Creating Your Own Unique Wedding Ceremony, Sydney Barbara Metrick suggests ways to personalize your ceremony by including elements from your surroundings. Consider a symbolic "sand ceremony" where each of you pours a glass of sand into a larger bowl, mixing the sands together to represent a blending or union. To make the
  ceremony even more personal, write your own vows.
  
  SETTING THE SCENE
  
  Here are some of our favorite (or just plain different) beach-theme decorating ideas:
  
• Create a walkway made of seashells
• Place a lifesaver or anchor amidst the buffet
• Arrange place cards atop a surfboard
• String colorful fish lights or paper lanterns above the reception tables
• Set out party favors inside colorful inner tubes
• For a natural setting, use potted herbs and grasses. For serving tables, use boxes of wheat grass -- a decorating trend we love
• Arrange flowers in large conch shells or colorful beach pails as centerpieces
• Conjure up an underwater landscape by combining blue and green florals with neutral-color props such as sand, sea grass, shells, coral, and greens
• Make a splash by arranging flowers underwater in a large glass bowl or vase
• Forgo the water altogether and put sand in the bottom of a cylindrical vase, with a large pillar candle in the middle surrounded by small shells or beautiful stones
  
  
  PLAYFUL PHOTOGRAPHY
  
  Your wedding pictures will be anything but ordinary -- hugging your honey with the sand between your toes, waves crashing in the distance, a sunset backdrop beside the water's edge -- take advantage of the beauty of your natural surroundings. For great candids, loosen up! Kick the sand, throw a Frisbee, turn a cartwheel, or simply stroll hand in hand. But in addition, make sure to prepare a list of must-have shots.
  
  BRAVING THE ELEMENTS
  
  Wind, rain, bugs, noise. Just a few things to be aware of before your wedding on the beach. Keep the environment beautiful and your guests happy with these six tips:
  
  
• Bust the Gusts
  
  Beaches are breezy, so keep decorations simple. Be sure flowers are well secured and your aisle runner is weighted down -- think decorative but heavy rocks, sand-filled pails. Or forget the runner and create an aisle using seashells, rocks, or torches. If you want an archway, remember the narrower, the less chance a strong gust will knock it over.
  
• Let It Rain
  
  You hope your day will be filled with blue skies and balmy breezes, but Mother Nature may have other plans. As a preventative measure, renting a tent is recommended.
  
• Fend Off Pesky Pests
  
  Light some citronella candles or torches to keep nasty mosquitoes and other fierce flyers at bay. In addition, set out a basket of insect repellent alongside the place card table for guests to use at their leisure.
  
• Quiet!
  
  Crashing waves, gusty winds, crying seagulls, vocal beach-goers -- the sounds of the surf can drown out even the most seasoned speakers. Minimize the number of onlookers by having the ceremony early in the morning or around sunset if possible.
  
• Brrr...It's Getting Cold
  
  It's always a bit cooler at the shore, but what if the temperature really drops? On your save-the-date card, include a note that lets guests know to bring a little something warm. Another idea: provide a small throw blanket on each person's chair, maybe as your wedding favor. For a sunset ceremony and if the local ordinances allow it, a bonfire is a romantic way to keep toasty. Of course, you may want to skip the bonfire if children are attending.
  
• Fresh Air
  
  Many public beaches have patrols that comb the areas to remove debris where it is a problem. Again, make sure to call your local beach authorities for details. If they don't have a removal team, gather up your attendants a few hours before the ceremony for a little pre-wedding clean up -- just make sure no one gets sunburned in the process.

This article originally appeared here.

---

Looking for a wedding gown fit for the beach? This is my favorite all time gown. A. because it's gorgeous and B. Reusable and C. as of press time, on sale for under $80.00 at A. B. Lambden.:

A.B.Lambden

Make sure you buy shoes that are easy to wear and summer styled. A nice summer sandal in white, gold, ivory or silver works well too. Another option that I think is adorable, is the new style of wearing white crocs. Comfortable, you can kick them off and hey, your gown is going to be long any
way.

• 
  

  ---

  
  

  Your Tan
  

  I am going to spill one of my secrets. As a very fair skinned person, it takes a long time for me to get a tan. I cheat by taking "Canthraxan," which I purchase from RPM
  Total Vitality. Here is the excerpt from their site (which I am not receiving any money from them to tell you about this, nor any other monetary or otherwise transaction from them.) I just simply use the product and I am sharing because the side effect of it is a beautiful golden tan. And as you can see, Clint Eastwood has used it. And, in my book, what's good for Clint, is good for me. Canthraxan can be purchased in any health store or
  online. I have found the best price to be through RPM Total Vitality.
  

  The following excerpts about Canthaxanthin
  are from Durk Pearson's and Sandy Shaw's #1 best-selling book
  
  Life Extension: A Practical Scientific Approach

  
  

  " The use of very high doses of beta carotene to reduce photosensitivity does have a cosmetic drawback, however. The beta carotene will color your skin yellow (which can also occur if you eat a great many carrots), making you look jaundiced. Of course, it isn't really jaundice (caused by liver failure), and your doctor will
  realize it immediately when he sees the whites of your eyes have not turned yellow. Nevertheless, you may not want to be carrot-colored. There is another carotenoid, canthaxanthin, which is very closely related to
  beta carotene. This is the material that makes flamingos and certain shellfish pink. We think it provides better protection from ultraviolet light and singlet oxygen better than beta carotene... "" Any plant containing chlorophyll but no carotenoids will be killed by a few minutes of exposure to sunlight since about one photosynthetic reaction in a thousand allows a dangerous molecule of singlet oxygen to escape. Like plants, we can protect ourselves from sunlight with carotenoids. (pgs. 422-423) In the spring of 1981, I added a carotenoid, canthaxanthin to my formula, ... for the very substantial protective effects of the carotenoids. The results have been better than expected."

  " 'Mr. Smith' says that there was a 'real dramatic' effect on his skin's resistance to sunburn when he used
  canthaxanthin, a carotenoid (chemically related to the yellow coloring matter in carrots, beta carotene). His skin is relatively light and sensitive to sunlight, especially his nose. He began using about 120 milligrams of canthaxanthin per day, then went to the same dose every other day. He looks as if he has a beautiful golden-bronze suntan....* " (pg. 743) * Mr. Smith is commonly known to be movie star Clint Eastwood

  
  

  Side note: I have to put a disclaimer here. I have no idea the safety of this product except to say that I use it, and have had no problems. Many of my friends and family members use it as well. I will post a note from the FDA addressed to RPM. So please read all of the information on this product and use at your own discretion and risk.

Where Vintage Meets Advante Garde . . .

This is a really, really nice site to check out (where fashion meets avandt garde):





They have really gorgeous and classy items. I am showing a few of my fav's as you can see : )

Great Piece for your Honeymoon Wardrobe

Low Pocket Blouse - 6/M
- $ 170.00

This piece is super versatile. You can wear it with jeans but it also works perfectly as a mini-dress. Low pocket blouse has drawstring around at the waist and two detail pockets on sleeves.

Isn't this nice? Just plain enough and just dressy enough. And if you have the legs and the shape, it makes a great dress and/or shirt... what I call a "2'fer"

Romantic Fortune Cookies ... "YUM-O"

Romantic Fortune Cookies

"Your love life is about to take a turn for the interesting." Confucius couldn't have said it better. Each of these crispy chocolate-covered cookies comes with a romantic version of the traditional fortunes. Exclusively from RedEnvelope.

• twelve individually wrapped cookies
  
• red-and-brown take-out container with brown ribbon handle
  
• please see More Details for a list of fortunes
  
• net weight 7 oz.

"YUM-O"

A little more conversation at the reception table . . .

A little more conversation at the reception table is always sweet. Can't go wrong with these old standby's. Everyone loves conversation hearts. Young and old alike. And, they are not just for Valentine's day or Weddings : )

Bridal Shower Games ... So Much Fun!

Make it easy on your Maid of Honor! Lead her to this wonderful site that has all the bridal games she will ever need!

Bridal Shower Planning & Games Kit - $ 17.95
Retail Price: 25.95
You Save: $8.00
From: BridalShowerGamesAtoZ.com

IGIGI Plus Sized Dresses & Bridal Gowns You Will Love

We get many emails from "Bride-to-Be's" looking for plus sized gowns for either themselves or their Bridesmaids. For the record, a plus size in the clothing industry is usually anyone over a size 12. Go igure. At any rate, I came across this really amazing online store called IGIGI. Aside from their gorgeous designs; I have to say that I - LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, their Philosophy; and I quote,

"At IGIGI, we believe that words like "ample," "opulent," "curvaceous," and "voluptuous" should be mainstays in the fashion dictionary. It is important to accentuate and celebrate the beauty and sensuality of the female figure rather than cover it up with piles of fabric."

And, in looking through their site and styles it is apparent that they are very passionate about designing and selling both unique and affordable styles for the fashion forward woman.

Ozlem Arapci from IGIGI was kind enough to send me a product sample before I posted their store to our website.

Upon receiving the package from IGIGI, I must say, I was more than pleasantly surprised. For me, it's the little details, that can make or break the buying experience. Believe me when I tell you that besides the dress, the packaging is "fabulous." The dress did not come in a plastic bag, or in a box of Styrofoam peanuts. It came wrapped in beautiful pink paper and was tied with a satin ribbon. It was like receiving a gift to myself in the mail. I loved it! And, this is how all of their packages arrive. It's a nice touch.

The dress that was sent to me for review was the Lisabetta Dress (See dress on left). You can twist it, turn it, knot it' and it doesn't wrinkle. The dress has a bodice twisted into a princess knot, flared skirt and 3/4 length sleeves. It is fully lined, and, it is only $74.00 (Colors olive, black, raisin, wine and ocean blue).

The best way to describe the dress is "very, very nice." Perfect for a weekend trip, honeymoon or the everyday office. It feels good. It looks good. The skirt swings nice and it doesn't wrinkle. The dress does not cling to you - it flows. Perfect. You can dress it up with a scarf or jewelry or even wear it plain. The quality is excellent. It looks expensive and has a great feel to it.

The nice thing about IGIGI is that they have a size chart which is developed toward the 5 body shapes: hour glass, triangle, reverse triangle and so on. They are also in the process of developing a size calculator so that a customer can enter their measurements at the web site and get recommendations of items for their particular shape. Which is so nice, because personally, I hate ordering clothes online and when they come they don't fit.

If you are a Bride looking for gowns or dresses for either yourself, your bridesmaids or mothers / grandmothers of the bride and groom, you definitely need to touch base with this online store. They have everyday clothing and again, gowns for special occasions. Below are a few choices that would work well for your wedding party:

Novella Gown in Black
(Right) This gorgeous evening gown will help you make an unforgettable entrance at any Gala event. Details include:- Asymmetrically draped bodice that ruches at the side seam to conceal the tummy; Asymmetric bra-friendly bodice and one off-shoulder sleeve for only $190.00

I love this dress! Celine Lace Gown. (Left) This evening gown has a distinct aura of Haute Couture. Dramatic lines showcase a short lace skirt laid with metallic thread and a scalloped edge. It is covered with a long overdress split in the center that reveals the skirt. Lace flared sleeves flow from a beautifully draped bodice that displays a scalloped lace insert at the bust and ends at the empire waist trimmed with velvet. Lined. $195.00

Fiorella Lace Gown with Shrug in Red (Right) A unique
IGIGI gown creates a feeling of mystery and romance. Beautiful stretch lace has a iridescent effect due to a contrasting lining. Details include a skirt that is flared from the knee due to a number of the sheer chiffon goddess; empire waist is trimmed with a velvet panel. The dress includes a velvet shrug. Only $209.00.

And or course you can't forget the Bridal gowns:

Laptop Bride readers can receive a 10% discount by simply using the code "Wrap". For more information (and choices) visit IGIGI online and their Blog

Catch the Groom Wedding Cake Topper ; )

Isn't this adorable?

Although maybe it should be called "Restrain the Groom!" : )

You can find this and everything else you need here: WhereBridesGo.com

Valentine's Day Gifts of Wedding Centerpieces, I like these styles . . .

Get Ready for Valentine's Day Early!!!! I found these VERY ROMANTIC items at the Flowerstore.com. I like all three of these because they are different. And, whether you are buying for your sweetie, or a friend .... I think any of these three items would make a conversational and very unique wedding centerpiece. Love to hear your thoughts on these picks. Comments anyone?

"Colors of Spring" Candle Garden

Ice Bucket, Champagne and 6 Berries

Moulin Rouge Bouquet of Tulips

Affordable Personalized Rings for Valentine's Day ...

Valentine's day is coming up. Not that you couldn't use these for any occassion... but, you can use the below coupon code to get a discount .... : ) I came across these in my email. Personally, I think they are really sweet. Rings with your beloved's name etched on it. Whether you are engaged, sweethearts or just best friends, these make a very nice affordable gift. They start in the range of $39.00. Can't beat that. And, who says you can't get them as a gift for dad or mom. They would make a nice pinky ring with dad's daughter's name(s) or daughter and son's name... same for mom. Just an idea thought I would pass along.

Sterling Silver Couple's Birthstone Hearts & Name Ring

Sterling Silver Couple's Square Birthstone and Name Ring

The Wedding Shower aka/ Bridal Shower

I'm sure that over the holidays there have been a host of newly engaged couples born who need to plan a wedding! But before the wedding there is the Bridal Shower to think about, which will most assuredly be thrown by your Maid / Matron of Honor or a family member. Bridal showers really are fun. They do need a lot of planning and organization in advance, but they are worth it. The bride and groom receive practical gifts for their home, and shower party’s are a great excuse to get together with friends and family. Plus it is a memory!

What to Do, What to Do?

First, decide on your maid of honor. Traditionally the maid of honor plans the bridal shower; but it can be a friend, co-workers, or family member.

The Purpose of the Shower:

• A #1 - To have a good time and celebrate!
• Get your friends and loved ones together to eat, chat and celebrate, assist you "the happy couple" by equipping your new home with the latest gadgets, kitchen aids, needs, wishes and just "things,"
• and, to help the bride assemble her trousseau.

When Do You Have Your Shower?

Traditionally, 4 - 6 before the wedding.

What Type of Shower?

A traditional shower can be held at someone's home or it can be brunch, lunch, dinner or a tea party. The time of the party depends on the schedules of the bride and her friends. And, if you need help:

Who to Invite

Family members, friends, relatives and/or work colleagues.

What’s Your Theme?

Choose a theme before sending out the invitations. The theme can then be used throughout the shower with the invitations, decorations, party supplies, favors and refreshments.

There are dozens of shower party themes you can play with; including:

• A ‘kitchen’ theme. Purchase the couple equipment and accessories geared for the kitchen. This would include cookbooks, pans, towels and anything else kitchen related. If you want to cheat ... have a "Pampered Chef" party. Here, the guests can eat, drink and be merry and buy the bride what she needs right there at the shower. Or, the guests can buy what they want, and all of the party rewards will go to the Bride and she can buy what she wants.
• travel theme, for the couple that has everything! Purchase luggage, travel items, gift certificates, or perhaps find out of the couple has signed on with a honeymoon registry whereas you can purchase gift certificates towards airfare, dinners, sightseeing tours, food, hotels, etc.,
• lingerie theme; purchase the bride a honeymoon trousseau, The Honeymoon Boutique at Bare Necessities, Shop Frederick’s of Hollywood
  Plus Sizes, Frederick's of Hollywood)
• if the happy couple are both into health and fitness, then a fitness theme
  could be an option,
• a garden shower party is nice. Buy the groom a rake, hose, or any other outdoor equipment he might need. The bride, spiffy hand tools, feminine garden gloves ... the sky is the limit!
• Another favorite is the Tea Party. It’s sophisticated, it’s quaint, and if you have a lot of older guests, it can be perfect.

• A wine tasting party. Purchase the couple bar equipment, stemware, glasses, wines, cheese, stock the liquor cabinet, glassware, or even cookbooks that have appetizers and mixed cocktails included in them.

The Shower Invitations.

A growing trend is that many brides are doing their wedding research on the Internet. which has opened up many ‘cheaper’ avenues and you can now get some beautiful printable-wedding-shower-invitations. These invitations are customized with your own wording and design, and are printed directly from your own printer. And, many are using E-Vite and other online card services. Simply send the invitation over the internet.

Note: Remember to send Thank you cards. In Laptop Bride's opinion, a personal note is the
only way to make sure that sincere appreciation is expressed. (Don't use the computer... snail mail works better.)

Food, Favors and Games

Food: Food will totally depend on your theme. If you are having a fitness shower, for example: a finger buffet would work well. If you are holding a garden shower or tea party brunch, consider light finger food - cheeses, crackers, fresh fruit, mini-quiches, scones, muffins, dips, salads, jellos and basically lite fare.

Favors: For the shower something small works well. It can be something as simple as tulle filled with Jordan Almonds and tied with a curly ribbon; to a handmade crafts. If you prefer something more like a "gift", give something small and useful like a scented candle or potpourri sachet.

Games: Everyone should experience bridal shower games. Shower party games are a great ice-breaker for people to get to know each other. If you know of any games yourself, use them. Otherwise go to a party store or online to purchase a bridal shower party game book
The Best Bridal Shower Party Games (Party Games and Activities) ( Games could include bridal shower bingo as this is always a big hit as is ‘what’s in the bag (memory game). Trivia questions about the bride and groom or making a wedding hat with ribbons and bows are all fun games to be had.