Unique Beach Themed Wedding Things - Won't leave you Shell Shocked

Beach theme weddings can be casual or formal, whimsical or elegant. Whatever your vision, these beach theme products allow you and your guests to experience a bit of the sun, sand and surf no matter where you are. These are unique in my book. I particularly just love this save the date umbrella card!

Kickin' Back Save-the-Date Umbrella CardGive your loved ones a taste of what's in store with this save-the-date card featuring a drink umbrella and an inviting beach chair design. The textured card is pre-punched with holes for inserting the umbrella; assembly required. Your names, destination and wedding date are printed in the format shown. The design and all wording are printed in the same ink color.(Size: 4 1/2" x 5 7/8")

Coastal Sand Toasting GlassesPerfect for a destination wedding or beach-themed event this lovely set works well as a centerpiece or as an accent for your guest book table. Included are two 8 1⁄2???H base-less toasting glasses with a light blue tint that rest in sand and shells.

Sand and Shell Tealight HolderBeach weddings are often the most beautiful and memorable occasions. With this beach themed wedding favor your guests will be able to take a bit of your celebration home with them. This 4" x 4" x 3" glass tealight holder is partially filled with sand and contains a collection of authentic seashells. The tealight (included) is held in place with a jute twine and topped of with a folding card that reads, "Thank You for Sharing This Day." Measures 3.25" x 3.5".

Personalized Donation Cards - Nothing warms our heart more than giving back. These custom printed donation cards have rounded corners and will be printed with "as our Wedding Guest" at the top as shown, then up to five lines of personalization for your charity information, followed by your names and event date. All personalization will be printed in your choice of ink color in the lettering style shown, printed in thermography (raised ink) process. The tag is heavy white card and comes with a hole punched at top, the ribbon shown is not included. Each card measures 3 5/8" square. Sold in packages of 50 cards.

Under $30.00 Touch Ups Victorian Handbag. This seashell-inspired clutch is covered with intricate beading in an unforgettably beautiful pattern. We love the old-fashioned snap closure. In colors made for any occasion, white, ivory silver or black. This handbag is not dyeable.

Well "Fan-cy" that! Hand Fans for the Wedding

Wedding fans seem to be a hot trend for spring, summer and beach weddings. Wedding fans can also serve as a wedding favor or wedding souvenir. You can also use them as place card holders on the tables. Keep your guests cool on your special day outside and accent the party with wedding fans.

See more of my Well FAN - CY That! Hand Fans for the Ceremony! list at ThisNext.

Pros and Cons of the Aisle Runner ... Have One or Not?

Why the aisle runner you ask? Brides first starting using aisle runners when roads were unpaved and guests would arrive and promptly track dirt, mud and anything else they could bring in from from the streets. A clean white runner was laid down so the bride's dress would not drag through the mud. In medieval times, runners were placed on the aisle to keep evil spirits from coming up through the ground to attack the bride and groom. Today, it is simply a wedding tradition that has carried on. An aisle runner does add a touch of elegance to your ceremony; and it still ensures that your dress stays clean on your walk down the aisle! But there are Pro's and Cons:

The Pros:

• They add to the elegance of the ceremony site both in decor, and the tradition of the Usher's rolling the runner out
• Runners can incorporate your colors into the ceremony space
• They can help give your guests the message that they should “stay off” the aisle

With a Runner:

• Have your monogram or names placed on the beginning of the runner

• Use a fancy or funky fabric for a unique touch
  
  
  

  

Personalized Aisle Runner - $ 155.90

This personalized white aisle runner is printed with your first names, last name and last name initial in your choice of ink color. Please specify first names, last name, last name initial and ink color. The runner is made of sturdy plastic and measures 36" x 100'. Please allow two additional weeks. Aisle runner will ship separately from the rest of your order. Price is per personalized aisle runner.



Personalized Aisle Runner

Exclusive to Beau-coup, these personalized aisle runners can be customized with a monogram or the couple's names. They're elegant yet affordable and will certainly add a personal touch to the ... more info.

Wedding Aisle Runner - Matte

Add an extra pecial touch to your wedding ceremony by using these elegant fabric wedding aisle runners. It comes in 10 beautiful colors and patterns. A wedding essential for every bride!

Cons:

• They are an additional cost and perhaps unnecessary for brides trying to pinch pennies
• Unless tacked to the ground in many places, they will shift and fold as you walk
• If laid on carpet, it's for sure the carpet will "walk" with the bride. Probably best not to
  use a runner on a carpeted floor
• If your venue is a small room, don't use one .. it will crowd the area
• If a light color and you allow guests to walk on it pre-ceremony, you’ll see footprints all along your walk down the aisle; therefore, make sure the ushers roll it out right before
  you (the bride) walk down the aisle

What if I Don't Use Runner:

• Place decorations along the pews or rows of chairs to dress up the space
• Place arrangements on the floor along the sides of the aisle for a aisle-runner feel minus the actual runner
• Try focusing your decorating attention above the aisle instead of the floor - create a canopy of sorts to walk under

CROCS has heels! Comfy Wedding Shoes!

Crocs aren't just for the beach lovers anymore. Crocs has added some nice new styles. I can't hardly believe it! Crocs has come out with a line of wedges and heels! And, they are aren't bad looking!!!! Someone over at the CROCs R&D dept was thinking. I know there are alot of CROC haters out there, but they do have their place in this fashion world. They really are kind to your feet if you have bad feet, and hey if you like to dance, they just might work!

If you are the bride or a member of the party -- you really could wear them during the wedding, or change from your regular heels to a pair of these comfortable shoes. Especially if there will be alot of dancing.

If you are having a beach wedding, they would be perfect for walking in the sand. They come in all colors (so there definitely won't be a probelem matching the bridesmaid's dresses (LOL). They are comfy and not expensive. Plus you can wear them again, and again, and again.

There's Lena - sleek, chic comfort when you need
high heels—crocs™ Lena

there's the Positano (My Fav) -- your strut can be both sassy and sophisticated with this gorgeous t-strap. Leather lined, patent leather upper and a 3 1/2 inch heel. (I told you they were heels!)

or Venice --- comfortable. Oversized front
strap with an adjustable bukcle and a twist on the traditional Mary Jane!

Free Standard Shipping on All Orders Over $75 at Crocs.com

How to make a Bow Bun Hairstyle

This is a very cool video. I don't speak the language, but you don't have to. The online directions are so "spot on" you will feel like you can conquer this yourself!

Macy's Has Wedding Gowns ... and at a good price!

I was surprised to see that Macy's had wedding gowns ... and this is a great deal!

Calvin Klein Silk Gown with Beaded Straps
at Macy's!

Calvin Klein Silk Gown with Beaded Straps This beautiful silk gown with beaded straps could very well be the perfect wedding dress or simply an elegant choice for a very special occasion.
and only $238.00 at Macy's

The Compliant Wedding... Coupling

Etsy has to be one of the most unique websites in the Universe. Amazing how many craft people are out there.

Found ... Unique Wedding Rings:

From Jana Brevack - A wedding set for the unconventional! The female ring has a choice of five opaque colors: turquoise, white, golden yellow, orange or black.

The male ring stands tall and dramatically transparent. Switch-up the sexes! Order two of the same! The world is your technological yster.

or, you could go with a traditional, yet unique plain Titanium wedding band : ) Made with light and durable titanium and inset with masculine black carbon fiber, this ring measures 8mm wide and is available in a variety of sizes. For a personal touch, you can have the inside of the ring engraved with a poem, your vows or any message you choose. Engravers use a high-tech diamond engraving process that produces a clean, precise and lasting engraving, and the service is free with your purchase.

Lipstick on your collar, told a tale on you....

Just kidding.... One of the nicest cosmetics on the market is the makeup that does not smudge. Who wants to accidently leave a trace of lipstick on your dress while getting dressed. And, who wants to leave all their lipstick on the wine glass or the new groom's lips? You have to have pictures taken girl!!!! Check out Lip Ink®, their products are on the cutting edge of science and style. Ten years ago, inventor and mother Rose Nichols created the world's original waxless, waterproof, smearproof, and ultra-durable, natural liquid lip color™.

Backed by multiple patents and industry awards, LIP-INK ®’s liquid lip color™ is today the superior leader in lip color. It is currently available at hundreds of spas, salons, doctors' offices and retail locations worldwide.

I have to say, it really is a very cool product. They also have eye liner (which is excellent) no runny eyes or black circles .... worth checking out -- you can wear it after the wedding too!

Sex and the City Tulle TuTu Skirt ... TuTu Cute for your Bridesmaids!

Looking for something affordable? Pretty? Reusable? For all you Sex and the city fans! You know this famous skirt! Carrie Bradshaw sports it in the opening sequence! Well, this is a replica made to fit you! The skirt has a white lining and 3 tiers of tulle. It fastens in the back with a fastener and a satin bow tie. This skirt can be made super mini or long enough to hit the knees. Very Feminine, Does qualify for retro .... Sexy! Only $69.00 ... your bridesmaids will love you!

This skirt will work well for weddings or evening events. You can pair it with an ultra gorgeous eveningwear blouse or a simple tank top in any color. The skirt looks great!

Available at Get Go Retro!

Bridal Online Store - Great Selections at Great Prices!

Found a great online shop with excellent prices and a nice range of dresses, shoes and under garments. Check out Bridal Online Store. Very unique dresses and accessories. I particularly love the "baby" flowergirl dress. Cutsey!

Vegas Wedding Gown - $ 699.00
From: Bridal Online Store

Harlow Wedding Gown - $ 599.00
From: Bridal Online Store

1000 Wedding Gown - $ 499.00
From: Bridal Online Store

B899 Bra - $ 49.00
From: Bridal Online Store

KD-B574 Flower Girl Baby - $ 49.00
From: Bridal Online Store

China, Linens and Stemware "Oh My!" How about some lingerie?

China, linens, crystal stemware and rubbermaid "Oh My!" ... they are all common wedding gifts.. A bride-to-be registers for all kinds of gifts before her wedding day, but there's one thing she wants most: (the same thing we all want : ) ) ... to feel beautiful. A lingerie bridal shower is the perfect opportunity to make a bride's dreams come true. You can help her financially and romantically by pampering her with luxurious gifts of silk, satin and chiffon. Lingerie boutiques, upscale department stores and even discount retailers are full of classy gift choices that are beautiful, sexy and little bit sassy, too. And, with all the wedding planning and expenses, lingerie is usually last on the list. Don't forget bridal lingerie doesn't have to be white lace, how about a "something blue", a pretty pale pink or racy red?

Valentino Tulle Wrap - This barely-there sheer wrap lets your lingerie underneath show through beautifully. The bell sleeves are embellished with a bit of lace and are generously cut for a light look and a comfortable fit. The piece can be worn open or
wrapped at the waist with its delicate string ties. The color is pearl so it's neither true white nor ivory. Available in size extra small/small or medium/large. Shown here layered over the Terina Eyelash Lace Slip.

Chemise - Charmeuse is a soft, lightweight fabric with a bit of luster so it's perfect for this lacy chemise in your choice of black, red or white. The low back style is paired with a sexy sheer kick pleat. Fitted with adjustable straps so you can fine tune your fit. Wear it alone or with our Sheer Robe and Panties.

Pamper your senses with the luxurious texture and delicate fragrance of new Snuggle Crème. It leaves your clothes feeling smooth, soft, and delightfully fresh to wear. Available in two indulgent scents - Sweet Almond and Jojoba Essence - rich, creamy textures and delicate fragrance designed to leave your clothes feeling smooth. They were kind enough to send over a $2.00 off coupon for readers of Laptop Bride!

Subtle Memorial Ideas for Your Wedding

There are many tasteful ways to remember loved ones that have passed on. The key is to make is meaningful for the Bride, Groom and the family; but not uncomfortable for the guests. A wedding is a celebration of new love and life. It is also a celebration of the heart and family. There is a fine balance that you must keep in order to "do it right." Here are a few suggestions:

• Add their name(s) to the program ("Remembering those who are with us in spirit.")
• The Bride or Groom can wear something that belonged to the deceased. For example, the bride could wear a piece of jewelry; the groom a pocket watch, or perhaps cuff links.
• Include them in the prayer.
• Create a charm and add it into the bridal bouquet. A charm could be a small picture inserted into the bouquet, a vintage handkerchief wrapped around the bottom of the bouquet, or perhaps a photo pinned on the brides slip.
• Set up a memorial table with pictures of your loved ones and have a lighted memorial candle next to it.
• Play a favorite song of the person.
• Have memorial candles or vases of flowers.

Last but not least, here are two items that are both classy and sensible that could be used. I personally love the feather/angel pin. It's subtle, sweet and "nice":

Angel Wings - Designed to acknowledge family members or friends who have passed away but remain forever in your heart. This pearlized angel wing pin is beautifully presented atop a real feather and then attached to a heavy stock card. The angel wings can be pinned into the bride's bouquet or inside the hem of her gown as a reminder of those who are missed. The poetry card is available in six different versions including Dad, Mom, Grandma, Grandpa, Someone Special and Special Friend.

Rememberance Vase - Celebrate and honor the life of your loved ones who have passed with this hand blown glass vase to be placed on the altar or another special area at the ceremony or reception. You may choose to have the vase personalized with a specific name or something more general such as "Our Loved Ones" or "Our Grandparents", up to 22 characters and spaces. Personalization will be placed under the word "Remembering".

Jelly Belly Candy For Your Wedding Favors

Having a wedding near Easter? Perhaps a brunch. It doesn't get much cuter than this. Most everyone loves jelly beans. They are small, nostalgic and if you buy the Jelly Belly's ... fun flavors. Check out this adorable jelly bean carrot with tangerine flavored jelly beans! Cute or what?

Here is the deal ... Jelly Belly makes many varieties of jelly beans, including juicy pear, watermelon, root beer, cherry, promegrant, chocolate and buttered popcorn (to name a few). The jelly beans were most famously endorsed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan, who kept a jar of them on his desk in the White House and on Air Force One and who also made them the first jelly beans in outer space, sending them on the 1983 Challenger shuttle as a surprise for the astronauts. With that in mind, if it is good enough for them, it is surely good enough as a favor for your guests (right?) And, if you are having a candy buffet, you can mix or even segregate your flavors!

Suprisingly, Jelly Belly sells more than jelly beans. You can buy chocolate, other gelatin candies; and, if you want to go with the standard Jordan Almonds, you can buy a 10 lb bulk box (they sell those too! )

I am including the banner below, because if you use it ... you will at least get Free Shipping : )

Trust Me. Break in Your Wedding Shoes Before You Walk Down The Aisle

Yes, your bridal shoes are as important as the dress. And yes, you should buy what you love ... but use your head. Trust me there is nothing worse than standing, walking or dancing in shoes that are killing your feet. You want to be smiling in your pictures, not grimacing. Whether wearing flats, heels or stilettos, here are some tips to help you break in your shoes:

First, try purchasing shoes later in the day, when your feet are already a little swollen from standing and walking.

Break your shoes in on days when you are not going to be walking a lot. You want to ease into your shoes. If you plan on a lot of walking, take an extra pair with you so you can switch them.

Wear your shoes for a half hour to an hour every day, taking them off as soon they start to hurt. After a few days, you should feel more comfortable in your new shoes.

Treat problem areas. Sandals and high heels sometimes have an edge or seam in them that can be painful if the seam rubs against the foot. A quick fix for this according to Daniel Skair (top selling shoe salesman for Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco) is to "Use an emery board to rub down a rough edge; or take a white candle and rub the wax onto the problem spot to soften the leather whether it's inside a boot, heel or sandal." Leather conditioner or saddle soap may also work, but not as effectively. Another quick fix; put a piece of moleskin where the irritant is.

Avoid painful styles such as stilettos or too-tight peep-toes. Breaking your shoes in should mean that they start out comfortable and get more comfortable with time. If you spend a few hours in your shoes and your feet are killing you, it's time to buy a different pair.

To keep from sliding around on shiny soles, use a bit of sandpaper and "rough up" the soles, especially the area under the toes.

Lastly, don't forget to wear your shoes when trying on your gown; you want to make sure your gown is hemmed according to the height of your shoes.

You Have To Kiss Alot of Frogs Before You Find Mr. Right ....

An old saying, but true in most cases (unless you are lucky). You have to find that perfect match. With that being said, wedding cake tops have come a long way. I came across these and I just love them. They are whimsical, cute and different. Both would work great for the wedding or shower -- and for a Cinderella or Princes themed wedding.

Frog Prince Cake Topper

$42.00 per set

Like the classic fairytale The
Frog Prince, this two-piece topper set depicts a
princess kissing a frog, and her groom who hasn't
quite made the transition yet to a prince. Each
two-piece set is made of hand painted porcelain
bisque and includes a groom that measures 6" tall
with a 2.25" base, and a 5.5" tall bride with base
just over 4" wide. While the figurines are sold as a
set, they are also available as mix and match
separates.

Princess Bride Cake Topper

$31.00 each

A fairytale moment for your
fairytale day, this figurine makes a cute topper for
a bridal shower or wedding cake. Each is made of
hand painted porcelain bisque. Measures 5.5" tall
and just over 4" at the base. The paint colors are
available only as shown, we are not able to provide
custom paint. Also available as a two piece set with
a Frog Prince Groom.

Brownie Pop Favors -- Sensuously Sweet and Unique

What’s glamorously chic on the outside, yet sensuously sweet on the inside? No, not the Bride —these monogrammed brownie pops! But the glam chocolate monogram is just the icing on the cake: at the center of each pop is a delicious fresh-baked brownie or blondie. They’re the perfect gourmet favor for any bridal shower, birthday party or bachelorette fete.

Choose from five fabulous designs: bride, groom, filigree, scrolls and vintage. The bride is dressed in white chocolate with candy pearls and a delicate lace bodice made of white nonpareils; the groom is resplendent in a milk chocolate tux and tie with a white chocolate shirt. For a glamorous, old-Hollywood look, pair the filigree and vintage pops. And, only $3.50 each.

Each chocolate-covered brownie pop features a single initial in either milk, dark or white chocolate. Arrives individually wrapped in cellophane and tied with an organza bow. Measures approximately 1 3/4" diameter x 4 7/8" high (including the stick).

Hanky Panky's Long Stem Panties Rose Bouquet

You can't carry these down aisle ... but:

Special for Valentine’s Day or any other day for that matter; Hanky Panky’s cult-favorite thongs have been wrapped around rosebuds and made to look like a bouquet of flirty flowers ($250 per dozen, $130 per half (at press time). And, NO CALORIES!!!! : ) Plus, think about it. When you get real roses .. in a day or two they are falling off the stem (unless of course they are wired on) ... but still. This is the perfect gift that keeps on giving.

Hanky Panky Long Stem Lovin; Low Rise Thong Bouquet - One Dozen Roses Panty

I think this makes a great gift. 12 thongs simulate long stem roses. Soft, signature stretch lace. Flat, curved, low rise waistband. Daringly low, 3.5 inch rise. Cotton panel. Keepsake silk rose is revealed beneath each thong. Includes packet of powder lingerie wash. Fits Sizes 4-14. Packaged in flower box with red bow. The perfect Valentine's Day gift. Only available at Bare Necessities. Chocolates are predictable and flowers are perishable. Give the gift that lasts. And they are available all year.

Good Orient ... Don't Let The Name Fool You! Excellent Prices for Excellent Gowns!

I was very pleased and shocked to come across the Good Orient Site today. The Good Orient boutique evolved from a 1998 hobbyist Asian theme webstore to one of the leading fully-fledged Asian Specialty E-stores in the world. They have a great selection of traditional and modern wedding gowns, gowns for the mothers and dresses for the flower girls in both western styles and in Asian-inspired apparel. They don't stop there ... they offer other clothing in well. Well worth checking out. Here are just a few that I picked out!

True Love is under $350.00- This exceptional gown is the new stylish wedding dress that is regal and elegant, as befitting a bride on her special day. The superb hand embroidery would set this wedding dress apart from other dresses on any day, but most of all on a wedding day. This gown will be the focus of attention on the bride; or it would be the centerpiece of a serious collection. Select your favorite one and enjoy your wedding day!!

Then there is this dress for $207.98. Dignified, tasteful and made of satin and lace.

Again, they have a large selection that is defintely worth looking into!