This has been one of the hottest summers on record for Alabama. But despite the heat, Michelle and the wedding professionals of Alabama Weddings Magazine have been hard at work, doing photo shoot after photo shoot , all to be showcased in our 10th Anniversary issue of Alabama Weddings Magazine.

(And I gotta tell you….It’s gonna be goooood!)

If you haven’t had the chance to view our behind the scenes video, be sure and take a look.  You’ll get a peek at some of the hottest looks this season, as well as some of  the most happenin’ locations to host your wedding or reception!

Since my daughter Shelby was included in our premiere issue of Alabama Weddings Magazine, Michelle and I thought it fitting to include her in our 10th issue as well as her equally sweet-faced sister, Sydney.  So after a 16-hour drive down from Buffalo. NY (imagine a compact SUV, stuffed with one harried mom, 3 kids and 2 dogs), and another 4-hour drive over to the photo shoot site, the girls were primped and polished and somehow managed to hide their road-weary faces with smiles for the camera.  (Personally, I think they did great!)

The photo shoot took place at the Southern House & Garden in Knoxville, Alabama.  This is a lovely, lovely location, both inside and out!  Please be sure and check out their website.  I couldn’t have been more impressed with both the setting and the site’s owners Angie Summerlin and Terri Raymo.

The behind the scenes link will be posted soon.  But until then, I hope you’ll enjoy these photos taken by me, a proud mama and Southern House & Garden fan.

Southern House & Garden
15308 Shepard Park Road
Knoxville, AL 35469
(205) 345-5767
www.southernhouseandgarden.com

~ Tracy

Be sure to check out the Alabama Weddings Feature “Dress of the Day” in our members section!  We are highlighting the top 10 wedding dresses from fashion’s runway this fall!

Here’s a new trend worth sharing:  wedding dresses with pockets! Seems like this has been a bit of a controversial topic—after all, we’ve been told for eons that pockets add bulk on pants.  But perhaps it’s different when it comes to the gown, as designers are discreetly slipping them in on just about any style gown, including short gowns and sheath. between the layers of fabric.

Why pockets on a wedding dress?

Pockets make the dress hip and chic. Different poses can be done for the wedding photos--a hand in one pocket, a bouquet in the other--how great? When the pockets are not being used, they are not visible, so no worries about taking any of the elegance away from the dress.

Pockets are also a great way to staff a tiny mirror for make-up checks, tissues for those tearful moments, or whatever tiny tidbit you feel is needed! No need for a bridal purse with these gowns! Be sure and check out some examples of pocket-wedding gowns in this week’s Dress of The Day for Member's Only!

I have to say, I love the people who advertise with us.  And while I won’t say I have favorites, I WILL admit that I do have favorite categories….first of which will always include FOOD.

Yes, I’m a foodie.  I’m the girl who hides out in her kitchen on Friday nights with a new recipe, a glass of wine, and will find great delight in prepping, cooking, and ultimately—tasting!

Last Friday evening I tried a new recipe that came from one of our advertisers—Kathy G & Co.  This recipe is AMAZING—so much so that I had to share it with you here.  For more information about Kathy G & Co, including their restaurants, wedding services, catering, (and recipes!) and more, check out their website at www.kathyg.com!

Crab Cakes on a Lime Slice

Usage: Hors D’ouvres     Yields: 30 mini cakes.

Ingredients
3 lbs of lump crabmeat, pick out any bits of shell, 3 eggs, beaten, 3 shallots, minced, 2T chives, minced 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 t nutmeg, ground, 5 oz butter, melted, Salt and pepper

Egg Wash
5 eggs, 1/2 cup water, 5 cups Japanese Panko breadcrumbs

Directions
Mix first nine ingredients, mix well. Divide into two ounce patties to form cakes.  Beat five eggs together and add ½ cup water to make an egg wash. Dip each cake into the egg wash then roll in breadcrumbs. Refrigerate.

To Cook
Heat sauté pan with 2T olive oil and 2T butter. Add crabcakes slowly, about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Serve each cake on a fresh lime slice and top with Remoulade sauce.

1. Trim the guest list. This is difficult but sometimes necessary if the cost per guest is going to break your budget. Cross off names on the list of guests who might feel obligated to come to the wedding if they are invited but would not have their feelings hurt if they are not asked to attend. Think of inviting only relatives with whom you have a close relationship instead of everyone related to you. Invite only the people who are important to you and your parents rather than everyone you know.

2. If your wedding ceremony and/or reception will be held at a hotel, ask for discounts when your family and friends are staying at same hotel. Reserve a block of rooms for your guests several months before the wedding for the best rates. Speak with the appropriate manager when asking for discounts and reserving rooms.

3. When planning your ceremony and reception at a hotel, ask to speak to a manager who is in charge of these services. A manager should be in a position to offer the best rates for the hotel’s services. Ask the manager to throw in extras. Use hotel house linens instead of renting others. Hotels and catering halls have their own “props” and centerpieces that they are happy to loan. Always ask for at least 10% off stated rates.

4. On your wedding day stick to your schedule for your ceremony and reception. Musicians will charge more if asked to perform beyond the time stated in their contract. You will also incur additional limo charges if your event runs longer than planned.

5. To simplify things and save you money, have your ceremony and reception in the same location. There will be no need for limos to take you to the second location. Many houses of worship have halls that are equipped to handle wedding receptions at reasonable fees-especially if you are a member.

6. Ask friend to lend their talents in lieu of a gift such as invitations or flowers. Ask a friend will pretty penmanship to address your invitations instead of hiring a calligrapher. If you simplify your flowers and arrangements, perhaps a friend can assemble fresh or silk flowers which will save you hundreds of dollars.

7. Consider having your wedding any day but Saturday. Fridays are also popular wedding days but may cost a lot less than a Saturday event. For even greater savings, choose a weekday evening for your wedding. Schedule the wedding to allow guests time to arrive at the ceremony after the work day has ended. Many guests enjoy weekday weddings as this frees up their weekends for other activities. Choose a date between November and April to avoid higher peak season rates in many areas.

Image: Arvind Balaraman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Rice…..bubbles….birds.  How will you make your grand exit after the ceremony?  One option that is gaining popularity is sparklers!  Inexpensive and fun, they offer a whimsical touch that will also look great in photos!

HINT: (As we all know, keep these away from children AND check with your wedding venue to make sure they’re allowed before purchasing!)

What kind of hairstyle will you choose for your wedding day?  These days anything goes, and I love all the options!  Enjoy!

One of the Decade's Most Auspicious Wedding Dates
For One Bridal Couple + 34 Family & Friends a Highly Personalized and Private “Lucky” Wedding Weekend at Hacienda Xcanatun

MERIDA, Yucatan, Mexico - Get ready for a stampede down the aisle on October 10, 2010.  10*10*10 is one of the hottest, most auspicious and sought after wedding dates of the decade. Based on ancient numerology from several cultures including the Chinese and Kabala traditions, the date’s magic stems from 1 representing the beginning of everything and 0 eternity. Actually, the Maya discovered 0.  The number 10 symbolizes perfection by completing the essential numbers. Triple the impact with three 10s, and fortune is sure to shine down forever on these happy couples. 

Among all the wedding hullabaloo, one special couple, who dreams about marrying in the luxe privacy and style of the great hacienda weddings, surrounded by their friends and family, can fulfill their wish with Hacienda Xcanatun’s 4-Day/3-Night, 10*10*10, Lucky Wedding Fantasy offered October 9 to October 11, 2010. 

Priced at $18,000.00 USD, the 10*10*10 Lucky Wedding Fantasy includes:

• Three nights' accommodations & breakfast for the bridal couple, plus 34 friends/family
• All taxes and hotel service charges (restaurant gratuities not included)
• Floral decorations for the wedding ceremony
• Use of the restaurant dining terrace, or the 40-seat private dining room, or the 80-seat main dining room for the bridal feast
• Personalized table settings, candles and centerpieces reflecting the theme of the wedding
• A three-course wedding banquet featuring Continental, fusion Yucatecan or Caribbean delicacies
• A multi-tiered wedding cake in the couple’s favorite flavor
• 10 bottles of French sparkling wine for the wedding toast
• A bouquet of 10 roses and a box of 10 dark Maya chocolates (considered an aphrodisiac) for the bridal suite

Additional nights can be added to this special for early arrival or late departure at a reduced rate.

Nestled on the outskirts of Merida, in Mexico’s Yucatan, Hacienda Xcanatun (ssh-KANA-toon) is an exquisitely restored, 18th-century, former sisal plantation. Surrounded by acres of gardens tucked behind protective walls, the hacienda is steeped in history. Here, the Yucatan’s fabled colonial past comes to life revealing an era of extravagant hospitality, baronial elegance and gracious living.

There are several choices for the wedding ceremony including the restored family chapel, the chapel terrace, the dining terrace or a garden setting pleasing to the bridal couple. A tent can be raised in the gardens with a dance floor for the reception. Or, the newlyweds might prefer the hacienda’s private dining room with 18-foot beamed wooden ceilings or an alfresco dining terrace.

Flowers and candles add romantic lushness to both the wedding site and bridal feast settings. In selecting the menu for their three-course wedding feast, the newlyweds might combine Caribbean with fusion Yucatecan or European specialties, and then add in some personal favorites. The hacienda’s pastry chef thrives on designing multi-tiered confections in the couple’s favorite flavor, served with 10 bottle of complimentary sparkling wine for the wedding toast.

Hacienda Xcanatun’s on-site experienced wedding coordinator is none other than co-owner, Cristina Baker. She takes personal pride and pleasure in pulling together every detail:  flowers, table settings, legal requirements for the marriage ceremony. Among her many contacts she can find an appropriate clergyman if requested; a superb wedding photographer, or musical group to fit the mood. Cristina is supported by her highly trained staff to ensure the entire wedding experience is stress-free.

With the wedding ceremony on Sunday, the bridal party can kick back and take advantage of the hacienda’s intimate holistic spa where the head Maya specialist enhances contemporary pampering with healing rituals passed down from her ancestors. Two sparkling swimming pools deep in the gardens and colorful hammocks further soothe the spirits. At Xcanatun’s gourmet restaurant, ranked among the top 50 in Mexico, culinary adventures are available throughout the day and evening. By day, golfing on the world-class Jack Nicklaus Signature El Jaguar course is just five minutes away; private excursions to Maya archaeological cities; fishing, and tennis provide other options. Then light up the night with a private party in one of Merida’s trendy nightclubs; a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city’s historic center; or an outdoor concert. All of these activities can be easily arranged by Hacienda Xcanatun. 

Accommodations:
The neo-classic Hacienda Xcanatun shines with fine detail throughout the 18 air-conditioned suite and room accommodations. A huge wrap-round terrace encircles the spacious bi-level honeymoon suite with 20-foot beamed ceilings, polished coral-stone and marble floors and a marble-clad bath with a circular hydrotherapy tub for two. All the suites and rooms include antiques, hand-carved furnishings and relaxing hammocks on the terraces. On the wedding night, a bouquet of 10 roses and a box of 10 dark Mayan chocolates are placed in the bridal suite as good luck talismans. The remaining suite and rooms are dotted in small clusters throughout the gardens.

Not Included in the 10*10*10 Lucky Wedding Fantasy Weekend:

• Judge or clergyman to perform the ceremony; any pre-wedding legal work required by the Mexican government, such as laboratory costs, or notary fees.
• Live music or a DJ.
• Special dance floor
• Any liquor or beverages additional to the sparkling wine to toast the newlyweds.
• Costs for additional guests at the reception
• Additional decorations and/or facilities not included in package

For more information or to reserve the 10*10*10 Wedding Fantasy, call toll-free from the USA or Canada: 1-888-883-3633; or e-mail: hacienda@xcanatun.com. Hacienda Xcanatun is a member of Virtuoso, enjoys the coveted 4-Diamond ranking from the AAA, and is a member of Mexico Boutique Hotels. The website is at www.xcanatun.com.

All right, Victoria Secret, step aside.  You may make us Americans pine and envy your silky little undergarments, but now you’ve got some competition!

For those of you who have a secret love of all things European, check out Topshop.  This clothing store offers uniquely European fashion from dresses right down to your knickers.  So if you’re looking for some lovely little somethings to wear—in designs that I’m happy to say are delicate and definitely different from what I’ve seen at Victoria’s Secret, be sure to take a peek!  (Your fiancé may just thank you for it!)

http://us.topshop.com

Headpieces, combs and other delicate hair accessories are super hot this year!  But of course you don’t want to head to Walmart for that special whatnot—you’ll want something specially designed and gorgeous—a keepsake to pass on for future generations and their special days.

I found some gorgeous samplings at Claire Pettibone (http://www.clairepettibone.com) and have put a few here for you to enjoy….And the best thing about these headpieces?  They’re not wedding specific.  These gorgeous doo-dads can be worn time and time again, making you show-stopping beautiful year round.

There’s a dirty little secret no one tells you about aisle runners and grass: they’re a recipe for disaster. See, those fabulous designer stilettos you’re rocking down the aisle can actually puncture straight through the aisle runner, right into the ground. And what does that mean? A one-way ticket to Tripsville, baby. A face plant on your way to the altar is not exactly the memory you’d like to have of your wedding, right?

These ingenious little gadgets slip over your heels, providing you with more surface area which helps prevent heel punctures. Added bonuses: they’re reusable, they stabilize your step and protect the fabric on your shoes to keep them looking pretty.

While these lawn-walking savers aren’t not totally invisible, they really don’t stand out, either.

High Heelers fit most stiletto and kitten heels and come in clear or black. They retail for $9.95 at TheSoleMates.com. Discounts are available with a purchase of 10 or more sets (great for your bridesmaids!).

There are many-a-mothers out there who have held on to their wedding gowns, hoping that one day they might be able to pass it on to their daughter.  And while the thought is indeed sweet, unfortunately time changes things—including gown styles and the wearability of the gown your mom is trying to pass on.

But then again, maybe mom’s gown isn’t so bad. You actually love it but it’s too small or too short and can’t be altered to fit you. Maybe it wasn’t properly preserved and it’s now damaged and irreparable. Don’t fret. There are creative ways you can use mom’s gown in your wedding. While these suggestions mean cutting up her gown, you will be creating new heirloom pieces that can (hopefully) be used for generations to come. 

1. Flower girl dress.  If there’s enough fabric, you can sew a smaller rendition of a bridal gown and let your flower girl have her special walk down the aisle, turning mom’s heirloom into something precious (as seen here on my daughter Shelby).
2. Hello, ring pillow. Wedding gown fabrics make fabulous ring pillows. Ring pillows are also terrific beginner DIY projects.
3. Hankies and pocket squares. Depending on the fabric of your mom’s gown, hankies and pocket square for the wedding party are easy, elegant ways to repurpose the dress. Cotton is best for hankies; silk for pocket squares. Consider adding a bit of embroidery, beading, or ribbon trim to add a bit o’ pizazz.
4. Bouquet wraps. Strips of fabric from a beaded bodice look stunning rapped around the stems of your bouquet.
5. Harvest the lace and incorporate it into your own gown or veil.
6. Make a garter.
7. Hair accessories! Cover inexpensive plastic or wire headbands with the fabric, lace, and embellishments. Use buttons and embellishments to create one-of-a-kind hair pins.
8. Make fabric flowers. Perfect for headbands, bouquets, corsages.
9. Cover the front of an album, guest book, scrapbook or book of faith.
10. How about a purse? Better Homes and Gardens offers several patterns for a DIY creation.
11. Incorporate pieces into a chuppah.
12. How about something else for the flower girl(s)? Line or cover the petal basket.
13. Cover vases or votive holders with fabric and lace for stunning centerpieces.
14. Make a sash for your gown.
15. Bib necklaces are super hot right now. If your mom’s gown has embellishments grab them and create your own, a la Vera Wang, and save $800.

Looking for ideas on where to honeymoon?  Perhaps consider how Kevin Jonas and new wife Danielle Deleasa spent their honeymoon at One & Only Palmilla in Cabo San Lucas. The newlyweds got foot massages at the pool and were pampered by hotel butlers.  To find if this celebrity worthy location is right for you, check out Oneandonlyresorts.com.

When it comes to planning a wedding, wedding favors often fall low on the priority list. And by the time you get to this item on your to-do list, oftentimes you’re nearing wedding planning burnout, and ideas (and cha-ching) may not be flowing as much as they once had during the early phases of planning.

So let’s take a look at what our celebrities are doing, shall we? I’ve tried to keep the ideas within our scope of reality. Because while Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban may be able to give every single one of their guests a Tiffany desk clock, in the real world, well…..

So take a look at some of the economical choices other celebrities have made. These ideas just might work for you, too!

* As wedding favors, Fergie and Josh Duhamel passed out rubber bracelets at their Malibu wedding. Each band, imprinted with the phrase "Perfect Pair," can be found online at sites like Oriental Trading Company.

* Trista and Ryan Sutter gave guests these leather journals with a picture of the couple and the word "dream" pressed into the cover. These special keepsakes are available online at Bella Regalo.

* Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz passed out sugar cookies with the words "Eat Me" on them, tying into their "Alice in Wonderland"-themed wedding.

* Avril Lavigne and Deryck Whibley had personalized guitar picks made for wedding favors with the words "Deryck picked Avril" and "Avril picked Deryck."

Paris Hilton is known for many things, but shoes???

Ah, yes.  Shoes.  The shoe size 11 diva has launched a line of bridal footwear available exclusively at MyGlassSlipper.com.

The four different styles have heel-heights of at least four-inches and signature Paris Hilton savvy pink soles. With names like Senorita and Destiny, the designs are fashion-forward yet affordable with a price tag of $120.

So now you really can walk a mile in another woman’s shoes…

This is a wedding website and yet, I want to tell you a story about jeans.  I think every girl owns a pair, and don’t we know how important the right fit can be in making us look good! Thanks to different clothing styles, body types, brand names, shifting sizes, (shifting everything! Ugh!) it can take so long to find the perfect pair that when you finally do, they’ve long gone out of fashion!

This past week Michelle (our publisher) and I had the opportunity to travel up to Toronto for a working-slash-vacation.  And while we were there, surrounded by a plethora of stores, boutiques, discount houses and whatnot, we decided that this would be the perfect place to find that elusive pair of perfect fitting jeans. You’d think it would be easy, with such a large selection of stores to choose from, but after about the fifteenth unsuccessful attempt, we were on the brink of giving up, resigned to a life of outdated jeans, sweatpants and slacks.

But then….(insert hopeful sounding music here), we found a store that featured more than merely jeans.  It also featured CUSTOMER SERVICE!  We Americans have somehow lost out on this forgotten treasure while shopping.  And if you too, define your shopping experience as entering a store and doing everything yourself, let me explain just what this customer service is and how it made a difference.

Picture us--defeated, sick to death of even looking at another blasted pair of pants--dragging ourselves into the last and final store.  A friendly sales clerk asks how she can help and we tell her, “We want jeans.  No Mom jeans. Nothing outdated.  Is there such a thing as a pair that will make us look fabulous?”  And off she goes, pulling pairs from here and there, and escorting us to the dressing rooms.  From that point on, she stood by our side, checking sizes, getting other sizes, making recommendations, and virtually taking away all the stress and hassle of the usual trying on a pair, tossing it off, getting dressed again to go search for another pair yourself.  When all was said and done, both Michelle and I walked away with stylish, designer jeans that were a perfect fit. But more importantly still, the customer service we received left us feeling appreciated, well-cared for, and rejuvenated by the whole experience. 

So why am I telling you this?  Because being in the wedding industry, we couldn’t help but compare our jean shopping experience to what it must be like for brides trying to find that elusive, perfect wedding dress. 

Sure you can shop for it yourself—check out those bulk discount stores, or shop online.  But it’s TIRING, isn’t it?--Trying to do it all yourself?  Think of the different experiences as Walmart jeans versus True Religion jeans. For us, having someone step in and do the legwork for us was the ultimate designer experience. The time we saved, the stress avoided, and the comfort we got, knowing there was someone who knew the ropes willing to help us find what we needed—what luxury!  In my opinion, the smaller bridal stores and boutiques offer that same high-end, sanity-saving experience.  And while I’ll always love saving that extra cha-ching while shopping, I’ve discovered those few extra dollars saved aren’t worth losing what I experienced while shopping with Michelle in the final Toronto store.

So think about it, Ladies. And shop on. But always remember, great customer service rocks!

Until next time, Tracy

By Gretchen Birdwell, www.gretchenbphotography.com

I know, I know. A bridal session is a lot of trouble. You think it’s going to be painful, boring, and maybe you really don’t want a big formal portrait at your reception. Okay, with that said, please stay with me on this one. Your wedding is not just one day. Your wedding is made up of many different experiences–parties, showers, engagement photos, dress fittings, registering for gifts, choosing everything to make sure your wedding day is perfect.

Having a bridal session is your only real opportunity for a dress rehearsal. You will see how your hair looks complete with veil. You will see how your flowers will look with your dress and veil. You will feel how your dress swirls and swishes when you walk. You’ll know for certain that your dress length and shoe height work. You can make final decisions on your jewelry and make-up. Looking in the mirror and looking at photographs of yourself are two completely different things…you’ll see things in a photo that aren’t evident to you when you’re looking in the mirror. I don’t know why–I just know it is!

My brides come to the studio usually after a morning hair appointment–I have lunch ready for them, and the make-up artist comes to the studio. We have a great time talking about the wedding plans while we eat and while she is being transformed into the beautiful bride her groom will see on their wedding day. We have fun making images that range from very formal to downright silly! It’s a time to play dress-up! The mothers are always thrilled to be able to share this very special and private time with their daughters. Don’t short change yourself–treat yourself to that bridal session!

Whether you've got six months or six weeks before your wedding, there's still time lose weight and get in the best shape of your life for your big day. To get ready, this mega-healthy, fabulous-tasting eating plan will help you lose one to two pounds a week. This 1500-calorie low-fat diet, created by the world-renowned Rancho La Puerta Spa in Tecate, Mexico, features lots of delicious peak-season fresh fruits and vegetables and enough Mexican flair to keep your taste buds happy. Best of all, it's so safe and healthy that you can repeat it for as many weeks as necessary to get down to your goal weight. Just don't forget that diet is only one part of the equation. Rancho La Puerta puts a strong emphasis on exercise as well. Besides eating healthfully, clients hike daily on the spa's extraordinary desert trails and take classes in everything from horseback riding to Pilates to stress reduction. So make sure to hit the gym or get outside for a walk, run or bike ride at least three days a week while you're on the diet. Bon appetite!

Low-fat Spa Secrets
What makes the low-fat fare at Rancho La Puerta taste so sinfully delicious? Executive chef Bill Wavrin, author of The Rancho La Puerta Cookbook, and the mastermind behind the plan on these pages, shares a few of his secrets.

Get fresh. Wavrin picks vegetables from his garden every day. "As soon as a vegetable is picked, it starts losing its flavor and nutritional value, so freshness matters," he says. If you've got a brown thumb, visit your local farmers' market or find a grocery store that sells great produce.

Spice it up. Experiment with no-fat flavor enhancers, such as chili peppers, garlic, fresh cilantro and other herbs, curry, vinegars or a spritz of lime or lemon.

Try tofu and its cousin, tempeh.  They're healthy, tasty, lower-fat substitutes for meat.

Spare the oil.  When sauteing, use just enough olive or canola oil to barely coat the bottom of the pan.

Countdown-to-Summer Diet Ground Rules

• The calorie counts are roughly the same for each breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so if you don't like one of the meals and want to replace it with one from another day--or would like to repeat a meal two days in a row--that's fine. Switching one breakfast, lunch or dinner for another won't affect how much weight you lose.
• You'll be eating plenty of food at meals, plus one afternoon snack. But if you get hungry at other times of the day, feel free to have a piece of fruit.
• Drink as much water, seltzer or herbal tea as you like, but limit your intake of coffee, tea or diet cola to two to three servings a day.
• Vegetarians can simply omit the meat from the recipes that call for it and substitute half cups of black, pinto, cannelloni or garbanzo beans instead.
• For variety during the second week of the diet, swap any fruit in the plan for one from this list: blueberries, raspberries, papaya, mango, watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, apple, orange, grapefruit or banana. Also, vary the bread. Try English muffins, pita pockets, tortillas or 100 percent whole-grain rolls.

The Delicious 7-Day Spa Diet

Day 1
Breakfast
1 slice whole wheat bread
1 small wedge of honeydew melon
1/2 (one half) cup nonfat yogurt

Lunch
Spicy tuna pita (Fill 1/2 (one half) whole-wheat pita pocket with lettuce, tomato, bean sprouts, 2 oz tuna in water, red onion and celery, 1 T fat-free mayonnaise and a dash of Tabasco sauce)
8 oz skim milk

Snack
1 oz string cheese
1 apple
4 wheat crackers

Dinner
Chicken Enchiladas (see recipe)
1 c tossed green salad with 1 T vinaigrette
1 cinnamon-baked banana (Sprinkle 1 peeled banana with 1/4 (one fourth) t ground cinnamon with 1/4 (one fourth) c orange juice; bake at 375 degrees F for about 20 minutes)

Day 2
Breakfast
3/4 (three fourths) c bran cereal
1/2 (one half) c blueberries
8 oz skim milk

Lunch
Turkey Sandwich (2 oz turkey, 1 oz Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and 1 T mustard and/or fat-free mayonnaise on whole-wheat bread)
1 nectarine

Snack
3/4 (three fourths) cup raisins
2 T sunflower seeds
1 c nonfat yogurt
1 medium peach

Dinner
4 oz grilled or broiled sea bass, flounder or sole
Tomato & feta salad (1 c lettuce, sliced tomato, 1/2 (one half) oz feta cheese, chopped shallots and 1 t capers)
1/2 (one half) cup brown rice
1/2 (one half) cup steamed green beans sauteed with 1 T sliced almonds
1/2 (one half) c cherries

Day 3
Breakfast
1 low-fat bran muffin
8 oz skim milk
Cantaloupe slices

Lunch
Nicoise salad (Top lettuce with 2 oz tuna in water, tomato slices, sliced olives; serve with oil and balsamic vinegar dressing)
2 breadsticks
Red Zinger tea

Snack
1 orange
1/4 (one fourth) cup dry-roasted almonds

Dinner
Pasta with Mushrooms (see recipe)
1 c lettuce tossed salad with 1/4 (one fourth) medium sliced avocado, 1/2 (one half) sliced tomato and 2 T vinaigrette dressing
1/2 (one half) cup frozen yogurt

Day 4
Breakfast
1 Orange Corn Muffin (see recipe)
1 T peanut butter
8 oz skim milk

Lunch
Veggie wrap (Fill 1 whole-wheat enchilada wrapper with 3 oz low-fat Monterey Jack cheese mixed with lettuce and tomato and 1 T vinaigrette dressing)
8 oz V8 juice

Snack
1 c nonfat fruit yogurt
1 medium peach

Dinner
4 oz poached salmon or halibut
1 c tossed salad with 1 T grated Parmesan cheese
6 steamed asparagus spears
3 small red potatoes
Mango slices

Day 5
Breakfast
6 oz grapefruit juice
1 low-fat bran muffin
1/2 (one half) cup strawberries
1 cup nonfat yogurt

Lunch
1 cup vegetable soup
Spinach salad with chicken or turkey (Toss 1 c fresh spinach, tomato and red onion with 3 oz grilled or deli chicken or turkey breast slices and 1 T raspberry vinaigrette)
1 sourdough roll

Snack
Jicama, celery and carrot sticks with 2 T low-fat Ranch dip
Lemon tea

Dinner
Penne with grilled veggies (Toss 1/2 (one half) cup cooked penne with grilled eggplant, red bell peppers and mushrooms and 1 t sautéed garlic, chopped basil and 1 T olive oil and 1 T Parmesan cheese)
1 Whole-wheat roll
1/2 (one half) cup strawberry sorbet

Day 6
Breakfast
8 oz skim milk
3/4 (three fourths) cup oatmeal
1/2 (one half) cup fresh fruit

Lunch
Tomato slices and 2 oz low-fat mozzarella on baguette with 1 T olive oil
8 oz skim milk

Snack
1/2 (one half) cup fresh fruit
1/2 (one half) cup nonfat yogurt

Dinner
4 oz grilled chicken breast
1 cup sautéed vegetables
1 whole-wheat roll
Mini Blueberry Cheesecake (see recipe)

Day 7
Breakfast
6 oz orange juice
1 whole egg plus 2 whites, scrambled
1 slice whole-wheat toast with 1 T jam

Lunch
Black bean salad (Mix (one half) cooked black beans, diced tomato, diced red bell peppers, red onion and scallions with one-half c diced papaya, 1 T olive oil and 4 T vinegar; serve over greens)
1 flour tortilla

Snack
1 Orange Corn Muffin (see recipe)
1 T peanut butter

Dinner
Shrimp scampi (sauté? 6 oz cleaned shrimp with chopped onion, garlic and (three fourths) cup white wine)
1/2 (one half) cup steamed rice
1/2 (one half) cup steamed broccoli
1 pear

The Recipes
Orange Corn Muffins
2 oranges, zested then peeled (reserve zest)
1/4 (one fourth) cup honey
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 (one half) cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 (one half) cup brown sugar
4 egg whites
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 (one half) cup mashed banana

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

Cut oranges into six slices each and remove all seeds. Place a teaspoon of honey into each muffin cup; top with an orange slice and set aside. Mix flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl and set aside. In another bowl, combine sugar, egg whites, buttermilk, bananas and 2 tablespoons zest; mix well. Fold mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Spoon batter into cups about three-fourths full.  Bake 15 to 20 minutes, until golden. Makes 12 servings. Nutrition information per serving:  170 calories, 38 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat, 5 g protein.

Chicken Enchiladas
1/2 (one half) onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
2 chicken breast, skinned and cubed
6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh oregano
1/4 (one fourth) tsp chili flakes
1/2 (one half) cup feta cheese
6 corn tortillas, warmed
Ready-made tomato salsa

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Sauté onion and pepper with the chicken for three minutes in a medium-size pan that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook five minutes more, or until chicken is cooked through.

Remove pan from the stove and fold in oregano and chili flakes. If necessary, drain excess liquid in a strainer; mixture should be moist but not too wet, or tortillas will be soggy. Fold in the feta cheese. Over low heat, warm a dry frying pan and heat each tortilla separately. Transfer tortillas to a plastic bag to keep warm. Remove them one by one and coat both sides with salsa. Place 2 tablespoons of the chicken-vegetable mixture on tortilla and roll up carefully. Place enchiladas seam side down in an ovenproof dish lightly sprayed with nonfat cooking spray and cover with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes, or until filling is hot and bubbling. Makes 6 servings. Nutrition information per serving: 160 calories, 18 carbohydrate, 4 g fat, 14 g protein.

Pasta with Mushrooms
1 pound fettuccine
1/2 (one half) red onion, sliced
1 teaspoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 (one fourth) pound porcini or button mushrooms, washed and dried
1 cup low-sodium canned vegetable or chicken stock
1/2 (one half) cup sun-dried tomatoes
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Freshly ground nutmeg

Cook pasta in a large pot of according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a medium pan, saute the onion in the oil until golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes. Add stock and cook 1 minute more. Add tomatoes, basil and nutmeg and cook 1 minute, stirring. When pasta is done, drain well and return to pot. Toss sauce with pasta and serve immediately. Makes 6 servings. Nutrition information:  366 calories, 75 g carbohydrates, 3 g fat, 14 g protein.

Mini Blueberry Cheesecake
Crumb crust:
1 whole graham cracker, crushed
2 tablespoons unsweetened apple juice

Filling:
2 tablespoons unsweetened apple juice
1/4 (one fourth) tsp unflavored gelatin
1/4 (one fourth) cup plain nonfat yogurt
2 tablespoons nonfat ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1/2 (one half) tsp fresh lime juice
1/4 (one fourth) cup fresh blueberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray an individual ramekin with nonstick cooking spray. To make the crust: Put graham-cracker crumbs in a small bowl; add apple juice and stir with a fork until the crumbs are moist but not sticky. Press crumb mixture onto bottom and sides of ramekin. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden. Set on a wire rack to cool completely. To make filling: In a small saucepan, bring apple juice to a simmer over medium heat. Turn off the heat. Sprinkle gelatin over juice and stir until gelatin dissolves. In a food processor or blender, combine yogurt, ricotta, brown sugar, lime juice and gelatin mixture and process until smooth. Scrape into a bowl and fold in three-fourths of the blueberries. Pour into crust and smooth with a spatula. Top with remaining blueberries. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Makes 1 serving.  Nutrition information per serving: 240 calories, 51 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat, 9 g protein.

Sandra Gordon writes frequently about diet and weight-loss for major magazines. Her latest book is The Reunion Diet (www.thereuniondiet.com).

I’m a big fan of DYI.  When money’s tight, and momentum is high, I find myself trying new projects that are creative and cost conscious.

But when it comes to wedding invitations, I have to be honest. With so many beautiful styles to choose from, I still prefer letting the experts handle that department.  But if you want to try your hand at making some of your own, I’ve got two DYI ideas to share with you.  The first is for making your own shower invitation, the second is a creative save-the-date card.  Give them a try and see how they turn out. 

But if you’re like me and lack the time and “mad skills” needed to get such awesome results, then check out the folks who sell invitations on our RESOURCES page.  I guarantee you’ll find something amazing, and won’t get narily a smidgen of glue your fingers!

--Tracy

DIY SHOWER INVITATION –

Materials and Description: 
*  The sign was made from a piece of thin poster board cut into shape.
*  Letters for a font can be downloaded for free from dafont.com.
* Blow up the letters on Word, print, and cut them out and paste them on the poster board.
* Use your favorite umbrella or check out the uber cute selections at Umbrella Society (umbrellas.net).
* Find your favorite spot and ask a photographer ahead of time to do a few practice photos to see how the setting works.  This photo was taken by photographer Jess Epstein during a couple’s engagement photo shoot, done in North Beach and Chinatown districts of San Francisco.
* Turn the photo into a postcard on Snapfish, and write your own text. 
* With a coupon code from retailmenot, you can 35 invites printed for $30.
* The text on the back and at the bottom is a downloaded finger image, printed, cut and then pasted with a glue stick to cover the Snapfish logo.

DYI SAVE-THE-DATE CARDS

Sending out Save-the-Date cards has become a necessity in the wedding planning process - and not simply because people need more and more advanced notice of a wedding they are being invited to, but I think because it has become such a common thing to do and wedding guests expect to receive something they can put up on their fridge.

These little notes are simple to do, and you can just "pop them in the mail, " taking a good chunk out of what you may spend on wedding invitations.

Materials and Description:

* Original library book checkout cards and their pouches- check with local
  schools and area libraries.
* Custom "Save the Date" rubber stamp ($5.00 at Office Depot).
* Rotating date stamp ($6.00, Office Depot)
* Photo-booth photograph of the happy couple, scanned and printed out on
  home computer.
* Photo paper for printing photographs ($15.00, Office Depot).
* Computer & home printer to print text onto cards.
* A6 envelopes, Paper Source  

*Use red ink on your rubber stamp for the "save the date" pouches and the wedding date.  
* Maintain the retro feel by using a typewriter font to print the text on to the cards and finish it off with an old photo-booth photograph.

* Match your envelope either to the red ink, or the colored lines found on your checkout cards.  The Paper Source has a large variety to choose from.

* If the white pouches don’t have peel-off adhesive surface on the back for attaching them inside books, hot glue a magnet on the back side of your pouch,  so our guests can display your unique and creative Save-the-Date card on their fridge!

One of the products that is unique to Bridal basics direct is their selection of bridal lingerie and accessories for plus size women. Even when women are comfortable with the way they look, it can be frustrating when trying on clothing in a store. By shopping online, women are able to find their size, look at a picture, and place an order. When planning your wedding, you should consider using the Internet for all of your planning needs.

In addition to finding the right lingerie for your wedding night, you can also find Elegant Wedding invitations that can be shipped to your home within a few days. Instead of having to find stationary, decide what to say in the invitation, visiting a printer, and waiting for you invitations, you can order them online within minutes. This will save a lot of time so you can focus on other arrangements.

After receiving the invitations, all you have to do is send them out. This will allow you to focus on other aspects of your wedding like your wedding gown, the reception hall or hotel, and where you plan on going for your honeymoon. If you need to buy accessories for your wedding gown, you will also be able to find them online. There are gloves, garters, necklaces, and more that you can look at when shopping for lingerie and other items you want to bring with you on your honeymoon.

Lingerie isn''t only for your honeymoon, however. You will need to buy something to go under your gown. Many women choose to wear camis, stockings with garters because they are more comfortable than other types of undergarments. There are plenty of plus sizes items to be found on bridal basics direct including bras, bustier, robes, and pantyhose. Buy these items in advance so you can try them on underneath your gown before the wedding.

Once the invitations have been sent, you have purchased your gown and accessories, and the time and place have been set, you may still be nervous about your wedding day. While there are small details that will need your attention, you should try to enjoy the moment as much as possible because once it''s over, you cannot get it back. Most weddings take at least a year to plan. Plan your wedding in stages so you will not miss anything important. Try to pace yourself and do not become overwhelmed.

After you are married, have your dress cleaned and stored properly. This will allow you to have your dress for many years. You will be able to remember your day and be able to tell others about it. Storing your dress properly will help preserve it so it will remain beautiful for many years.

--Katie Ford

Photo Credit:

Image: Tom Clare / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

1. Start early - Once you have set your wedding date, begin your search for a wedding dress. Ordering a wedding gown can easily take four to six months for the complete process. Unless you purchase your wedding dress off of the rack, your wedding gown will not be sewn until you order it. Then you can expect to have one to two fittings for any needed alterations. Even if your purchase a gown off the rack, you need to allow time for finding the wedding gown and for fittings and alteration time.

2. Have an idea - Use the Internet and bridal magazines to get an idea of the type of dress you want, puffy sleeves, long skirt, etc?Consider the ceremony''s location and time of year- don''t plan a huge skirt for a tight little church or a thin silk sheath for an outdoor winter ceremony. Hint: Don''t remove the magazine pages with wedding dress styles you like. Keeping them in the magazine will help keep them organized and will be easier for the sales staff to flip through and see your choices.

3. Do your homework - Contact friends and the local Chamber of Commerce for reputable bridal saloons and other wedding gown dealers in your area. Call the Better Business Bureau about any company you plan to patronize. Be wary of any wedding dress salon or seamstress that requires more than a 50% deposit on special orders, you want to have some leverage if the product you receive is not what you expected. Be aware that some wedding gown shops remove the tags from wedding dresses so you cannot identify the designer. Many times they will not offer you the style number of the wedding gown but try to get this information before putting money down so that you will know the exact wedding dress manufacturer. (Click here to see a special notice from the bridal council of America on where to find a wedding dress.)

4. Don''t shop alone - It is best to take one or two people with you who can assist you in getting in and out of those beautiful, but big wedding gowns. Also, another person can give you an honest opinion on how the dress fits and help you determine its appearance from all angles. Most importantly, taking one or two people will make your experience more fun. Relax and enjoy yourselves! You don''t have to buy your dress in one day (usually).

5. Plan to Pay 50% down - Generally a 50% deposit is required by most bridal shops on special orders and off-the-rack gowns that need alterations. Once the order has been placed, that money is absolutely non-refundable. We recommend using a charge card for this payment, in case there is a significant complaint against the establishment you may be able to work something out with the credit card company for reimbursement.

6. Call ahead - Many bridal shops and department stores require appointments to try on wedding gowns. Be sure to call ahead and secure your appointment before dropping by an establishment, you might find you have just wasted valuable time because they won''t see you that day. Also, you will want to verify if the bridal shop carries the manufacturer you are interested in or if they have a sample of a particular wedding dress you have your heart set on.

7. Measure up - It is a good idea to have your measurements taken at a bridal salon or take them yourself before ordering your wedding gown. Each wedding gown designer has a different size chart and these sizes are generally a little larger than your street clothes size. Wedding gown sizes are based on measurements and even though you may normally wear a size 6 you may order an 8 or 10 in your wedding gown.

8. Buy a dress that fits - Even though you may be on a diet to lose 20 pounds before your wedding, buy or order a wedding gown that fits you now. It is very easy to take in a wedding gown with minor alterations but it is next to impossible to increase the size of a wedding dress. Don''t be stuck with a wedding dress that does not fit properly or worse that you can''t wear because it''s too small.

9. Get your purchase order in writing -Once you have chosen the wedding gown you are going to purchase and are prepared to put down a deposit, have the salesperson write up a detailed receipt for you. Included on this receipt should be a full description of the wedding gown, including any special charges, such as charges for petite or large sizes, extra length, change of sleeve length, or any other special requests. Delivery date and due dates should be included as well. Lastly, any special offers such as free alterations, free shipping or rushed delivery time should be spelled out on the receipt as well. Having a written record of your verbal agreement with the bridal shop will be added insurance for you should a dispute arise.

10. Consider the rear view - Remember that you will be spending quite a bit of time with your back to the audience. Be sure that the view from behind is as flattering as the front.

11. Know the styles and terms - Look through our list of wedding gowns terms to know to help familiarize yourself with wedding dress terms so that you can better tell a salesperson what you are looking for. Consider doing a little research on fabric types and different wedding gown companies as well. Your local library or bookstore will carry books such as Bridal Gown Guide by Denise and Alan Fields which will provide you with more information.

12. Set a budget - Be realistic about your budget and try to stick to it. There are many options for buying a wedding gown (click here to see where to buy a wedding gown). Don''t try on wedding gowns that are out of your price range because you are only setting yourself up for disappointment and making the decision process even harder on yourself.

13. Review your options - There are many places to find your wedding gown such as Bridal Shops, Sample Sales, Department Stores and Renting. (Click here for more information on where to find your wedding dress and how their service and price compare to each other.)

14. Comfort matters - Remember you will be wearing your wedding gown for the entire day and well into the evening; so choose a gown that feels comfortable. An important test (after you have your wedding dress on) is to attempt to bend over, sit down, dance or do whatever it takes to assure that you can move in the wedding dress so that you will feel comfortable wearing it on your wedding day.

15. Try them all on - Even though you may have an idea of what type wedding gown you want, be open to the suggestions of a professional bridal salon staff. A wedding dress that is not very appealing on the hanger may surprise you and look very flattering once it is on your body.

16. Soften up - Stark white dresses are not flattering on many women. Consider an ivory, soft pink or other antique white that might be more becoming with your coloring. Also, understand that dye changes many materials vary slightly and the wedding dress that you special order may not be the exact color of the wedding dress you try on at the salon. If your wedding dress is being made, request a swatch of the fabric to get an idea of the exact color you will be wearing.

17. Wear a little make-up - We are not proposing that you wear a heavy application of make-up or lots of dark lip stick, but do put at least a little make-up on so that you don''t look "washed out" in everything you try on. If you wear your make-up and fix your hair before shopping, you will have a better idea of how you''ll look on your big day.

18. Try on the whole package - Bring with you shoes that are roughly the same height of the shoes you plan to wear during the ceremony and a strapless bra. Before you make your final decision on a wedding gown, try on your head piece and bridal slip to see what the total package looks like. You want to make sure that the headpiece and other accessories you choose will all look great together with the wedding gown.

19. Inspect each wedding gown - If you are planning to purchase a wedding gown off the rack, be sure that you inspect each wedding gown very carefully. Turn the wedding dress inside out and inspect each seam to make sure the construction of the wedding gown is solid and that the fabric is not unraveling at the seams. Inspect the appliqu?s and beading to insure that they are securely fastened and not just glued onto the wedding dress. Be wary of purchasing a wedding gown that needs "minor" repairs because once you begin to alter a wedding dress, you can not return it if the repair is not successful.

20. Relax and enjoy yourself - Remember to relax and enjoy the shopping experience. Allow the bridal salon salespeople to pamper you or enjoy the thrill of the bargain shopping of a warehouse sale. Whatever you do, remember the goal of your wedding is to marry the person you love and that your wedding gown is just one part of the ceremony. Being an educated consumer will help you feel more in control and feel more comfortable with the purchase you make.

**A special notice from the bridal council of America:

The Best Place to Buy Your Gown from The Bridal Council of America?
The best place to buy your wedding gown is at the store you try it on. You may be tempted to order your wedding dress through a "no inventory" dealer, an 800#, or the Internet, thinking you will get a lower price. However, when all things are considered, you may end up paying more. Here are three tips:

1) Beware of anyone who wants to ship your wedding gown to you. You have little recourse if anything goes wrong. Chances are the extra charges you will have to pay someone else for fitting, steaming, pressing and shipping will outweigh any discount.

2) Beware of anyone who requires you to pay in full for your wedding dress before ordering it. They are saying, "We do not service what we sell. We do not guarantee the fit. We do not want to be responsible." OUR ADVICE: You should never pay more than a 50% deposit at the time of ordering your wedding dress.

3) Beware of anyone who suggests that you "do the footwork" - select your style preference somewhere else and then call them to order. If they can''t show you wedding dresses to try on, don''t show them the money.

Our recommendation is that you buy your wedding gown at the same place that you select it. When you consider terms and what the price includes, you can usually save time and money by doing it all at one place - a full-service bridal store where your satisfaction is guaranteed. A wedding is too important to take chances.

--Annette Durrett

Photo credit:

Image: Sharron Goodyear / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

If there’s one thing I hate about winter it’s what it does to my skin.  Actually, I think it’s more about what it doesn’t do—tan it.  Dry, pasty white skin in a semi-permanent state of goose bumps is not something I like to brag about.  And the idea of exposing any of it in public sounds about as embarrassing as having my upper lip waxed while standing in the food court of a shopping mall!

I am a summer girl. And God help me, I like summer sun.  So what’s a girl to do when she has to attend an event or (gasp!) get married when those solar waves aren’t available?

You could get a spray tan.  Yes.  But have you noticed the subtle odor of it all?  I like to smell as clean and healthy as I look. And maybe it’s just me, but after getting one of those spray tans, I can’t help but worry that I smell like a bologna sandwich that’s been left on the counter overnight.  But that’s just me.  Those spray tans may make you smell like daisies—I don’t know.  All I know is that it simply doesn’t work with my body’s chemistry.

So again, I ask, what’s a girl to do?  Well, as for me, I found a product line that actually covers my pasty skin AND smells wonderful.  Better still, I don’t have to drive to a salon to get it squirted all over me; I can simply apply it myself.  It’s texture is light and silky, and best of all—STREAK-Free!  Yes, I’m definitely sold on this one.  Curious yet?  Okay.  Here’s the product—wait for it—

Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel.

If you’re a ‘natural girl’ and into organic things (Sadly, I am not--at least--not on purpose), you’ll like the fact that this gel is made from natural ingredients, including walnut oil, aloe, and vitamins A through E.  I like it because it smells good and is easy to use.  It’s a far cry from the days of orange-stained skin and copper palms.  Try it.  It works.

And if you happen to be one of the lucky few who will either be getting married or honeymooning somewhere tropical this winter, let me also mention that Hampton Sun has an incredible line of skincare and suntan products as well.  It’s spa-quality stuff, and I felt rather chic when I tried it out.  (Might I also recommend the Serious Shimmer Cooling Spray?  The Aloe Vera and Chamomile in it cools the skin, plus it gives you a delicate glow.  Love it!  (Of course, my using this product is now but a lingering memory from this past summer.  But I figured it wasn’t too late to share.)

So look for Hampton Sun products at department stores, or check out their website at www.hamptonsuncare.com.  You’ll be hearing about it again later.  I’ve got free samples to share in our Preferred Bride Monthly Contest.  Look for it this March!

Tan on! (and stay warm too, will ya?!)

~ Tracy

I love it when I discover something unique.  Lucky for me I work in the bridal industry, where there is no shortage of beautiful surprises. Turn to the right page, or find just the right shop, and suddenly I’m immersed in something wonderful, whether it be sumptuous fabrics, or delicate jewelry, or stunning floral designs--you name it.

This week my unique discovery came in the form of an accessory, designed by bridal designer Jennifer Cameron, of Caroline Alexander.  The handmade fabric rose she had created was simply stunning, accented with a rhinestone center that added just the right touch of sparkle to the bride’s sophisticatedly simple gown.  Since Caroline Alexander’s accessories are sold mainly along the Northeast, I just knew I had to bring these beautiful accessory options to the South.  And so I present just a few of them here, along with the photos’ descriptions posted below.  Now you, too, can enjoy this unique and beautiful discovery.

If you like what you see, check out the Caroline Alexander Website at www.carolinealexander.net.  And let me know what you think!  February’s monthly contest will feature a gift certificate from Caroline Alexander, so if you haven’t yet become a member of our Website, do so, and soon!  You won’t want to miss out!

~ Tracy

1.  Something Blue.  This rose measures 4" and has a special jeweled center.  We saved our vintage blue rhinestone jewelry for these special roses.  They are one-of-a-kind and will not be duplicated.  Brides, here is your something blue with a vintage twist!   $42.00

2.  The Lila Hair Flower.  The Lila Bridal hair accessory is pure white.  It has pearl accents and measures 5".  The Lila is attached to a 2.5" barrette.  It is stunning.   $32.00

3.  Bridal Rose shoe clips.  These roses are handmade from double satin ribbon.  Each rose measures about 2" in diameter.  They are sold as a pair.  Our bridal shoe clips come in white, antique white, or contact us to create a custom color.  Please email us if you have any questions. $16.00

4.  Double Fou Fou with vintage rhinestones.  The double fou fou is a handmade ruffled flower with two vintage jewel centers.  This piece can come in white, antique white, or a custom color.  This piece is attached to a clear comb, but can be placed on any hair accessory.  It measures approximately 5" in length  Price  $72.00

5.  Ring Bearer Pillow:  This all white pillow measures 7" x 7".  It is embellished with a large white satin handmade ribbon rose, green leaf accents, and some lace trim.  $24.00

6.  Vintage Button Handbag.  This handbag is loaded with antique white vintage buttons in all sizes.  The handbag measures 9.5" from the base to the top of the bangle bracelet handle and 7" in width.  The handle is a pair of silver shell bangle bracelets to coordinate the entire look  Price $75.00

7.  Head of Roses Headband.  Our Head of Roses Headband is made entirely of handmade satin roses.  There are  a total of 7 roses on a coordinating satin headband.  The center roses measures about 2.5" and they taper in size.  This headband can be created in white or antique white.  The satin headband is a 1" band, substantial enough to support the abundance of roses.  Please contact us to design your very own head of roses.  Price $78.00

8.White Rose with Flawless Rhinestone Center Bridal Brooch.    This white rose measures 4.5" and can be placed on a pin or sash.  The center is very clear and has a lot of sparkle.  $82.00

They may not have grown up fantasizing about their “perfect wedding,” but suddenly men are taking an uncharacteristic interest in everything matrimonial.

Just look at the explosion of Web sites in recent years catering exclusively to bridegrooms and you know something’s afoot. “We men pride ourselves on never having to ask for directions,” Michael Arnot, who started GroomGroove.com in 2007, has said. “But if there’s one time to do it, this is it.”

To those who think we’re witnessing a seismic societal shift, however, please note: Yes, it may be heartening to see men reaching out for help on topics like how to pop the question and the art of gift registering. But the “directions” people like Arnot give grooms are very much from the male perspective.

Wedding toasts? “No jokes about ex-girlfriends,” Groom Groove advises. Scheduling weddings around football season? “The majority of college and pro games take place during the day, so if you schedule an evening wedding you can probably watch the majority of the game,” counsels TheManRegistry.com.

Though 1.2 million men get married every year, they seem to be especially uneducated about wedding jewelry—including the engagement ring, his-and-her wedding bands, and gift ideas like platinum cuff links and watches for their groomsmen.

The engagement ring decision would seem to be of most concern to these grooms, given that 32 percent of them don’t consult their intendeds before buying, according to The Knot Market Intelligence Services.

So what’s a man to do?

“Trust your first instinct,” says jewelry and style expert Michael O’Connor. Because as it turns out, brides and grooms tend to prefer the same setting: platinum.

A high-quality diamond engagement ring set in platinum can cost as little as $1,650—platinum wedding bands can run as low as $800—at even a posh jeweler like De Beers. O’Connor says men are fans of bands from designers like Martin Flyer, Ritani and Jeff Cooper. “Platinum retains its volume over time,” he explains. “Whereas gold will wear more rapidly, especially in pieces that are worn every day like your wedding band.” But brides, he says, tend to take a more romantic view: “Platinum lasts forever, just like a couple’s love.”

Of course, truth be told, a lot of men’s newfound interest in planning their big day seems financially motivated. Thirty percent of couples now pay for their own wedding, a marked change from the days when a bride’s family traditionally footed the bill. And with the average wedding costing approximately $28,000, according to Brides.com’s 2009 American Wedding Study, that could also explain why GroomGroove.com urges men to embrace gift registries: “Every item you put on [them] instantly becomes free.” And who doesn’t like freebies?

You can find tips on jewelry purchasing and style trends by visiting www.PreciousPlatinum.com. -- (NAPS)

Alabama Weddings Magazine is pleased to welcome fitness and nutrition expert Joy Randolph to our Website!  You’ll find more helpful tips and advice coming soon in our Members Only section. – Tracy

Want to Look Great on Your Wedding Day?  Here’s How:
It goes without saying that wedding planning includes an element of stress. Everything has to be perfect - the cake, gown, floral arrangements, musical selections and so on and so on. But perhaps the most stressful aspect a bride-to-be assumes is the need to look perfect. As a result, the bride-to-be can fall prey to crash diets or not eating at all. Such knee-jerk reactions to losing weight are counter-productive and even worse, can lead to weight gain. Below, are some guidelines to help you relax and work with your body - not against it.

1) Pre-cook/pre-package meals
On Sunday evening, cook 2-3 days worth of food and place in empty tupperware containers so that you can "grab and go." Foods that can be cooked in bulk are chicken, fish and lean ground turkey. Pair a serving of protein with 2 cups of spinach or 1 cup of brown rice. Some quick snacks to bag include fruit, nuts and sugar-free jello. If you prepare your food ahead of time and take it with you, you are less likely to make unhealthy food purchases.

2) Never skip meals
Skipping meals throws your body into starvation mode. When you do eat again, instead of using those calories for fuel, the body will store those calories as fat as a survival mechanism. Work on eating 5-6 smaller meals every few hours instead of a few large meals each day.

3) Make time to exercise
This may be uncomfortable and inconvenient at first, but you will look and feel amazing if you stick with it. Thirty minutes per day, 3 days per week is a great starting point. I also recommend two full-body resistance workouts per week. The weights will increase your lean muscle mass. More lean muscle equals more calories burned - even at rest.

4) Make gradual changes
If you drink 3 sodas per day, don't fool yourself into thinking that you will drink only water from now on. It sounds good but is it realistic? Instead, decrease from 3 per day to 1 per day and continue improving gradually. The same principle applies to exercise. The more gradual the goal, the more attainable the goal.

5) Have some "me" time
Women are guilty of taking responsibility for everyone else but neglecting themselves. It's not selfish to want time for yourself; it's actually healthy. This time of rest will greatly depend on your personality and what brings peace to your mind. Examples include listening to classical music, a walk in the park, reading a book or going to a movie.

By incorporating these guidelines into your life, you will be on your way to a happy and healthier you. The results, as well as your anticipated union, should prove beneficial and long-lasting.

Joy Randolph is a fitness model, fitness spokesmodel and natural figure competitor. Joy has been featured in Oxygen Magazine's "Future of Fitness" and is also the Founder and CEO of Fitfully Made, where she coaches women toward reaching their desired fitness goals. Joy's practical and motivational approach to weight loss, nutrition and physique competition preparation has helped countless others. For more information, visit www.fitfullymade.com or email joy@fitfullymade.com.

Joy Randolph 
Figure Coach/Natural Figure Competitor

Register for Fitfully Made's 1st Annual Figure, Fitness & Bikini Workshop!
Visit www.fitfullymade.eventbrite.com

Web: www.fitfullymade.com
Email: joy@fitfullymade.com
Blog: fitfullymade.wordpress.com
Phone: 334 221 6896

Alabama Wedding Magazine’s 2010 issue is now on newsstands, and we’re busy here behind the scenes, updating our Website and getting ready to make it your one-stop source for wedding information and fun!  Be on the look-out for:

A FREE Members-Only offer – which offers you

• Our FREE Bride’s TO-DO Guide, which features links, charts, questionnaires and must-have info for planning your own perfect wedding!
• Creating your own wedding blog!
• Articles and news not found anywhere else
• Videos and Tips from Alabama’s top Wedding Professionals
• Our monthly E-newsletter
• Prizes from our Member’s Only contests!

We will also be upping the ante on our BRIDAL BLOG.  I’m feeling a little bit chatty these days, and I hope you’ll stop by and chat.  Our Bridal Blog will be discussing everything from shoes to sex (ahem, since there will be a honeymoon in your planning, after all) and fashion, fashion, fashion.  I definitely have an opinion, and I hope you’ll post a comment or two.  There’s just so much to talk about, don’t ya think?

And Real Weddings.  Yeeeeeeeessssss. They are definitely a favorite.  We want to make our Real Weddings section of our magazine open to everyone.  We’re trying to find a way, I promise you.  And I hope you’ll be there and ready with your own wedding story.  Who knows?  Maybe a little preliminary posting on our Website is a great way to get it all started.  Then a vote, maybe?   Hmmmmm.  We’ll keep you posted.

But yessiree. Changes are a-comin’. And I’d like to hear back from you, Brides-to-Be.  What would YOU like to see here on our Website?  Let us know and I promise ya, I’ll do everything I can to see if we can make it happen.

Talk to you soon! 

Tracy

(Photo provided by  Salvatore Vuono at http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=659)

Tis’ the season for wishes of peace on Earth and good will towards men.  It’s a nice thought, but one usually reserved for holiday cards and little else.  But if you’d like to incorporate a little good will into your own world, and especially into your wedding planning, then I have a great option for you:

http://www.justgive.org

This Website allows couples to create a registry for donations to be made to charities of their choice.  It’s a great way to give to others instead of worrying about where to put that third serving plate Aunt Hilda gave you, or when to return the four coffee makers you inadvertently received from your Crate and Barrel registry list.

I mean let’s face it.  While it’s great to receive, giving back feels AWESOME, and don’t we all already have so much? Supporting a charity of your choice is a sure way to start off your new lives together in a meaningful and positive way.  So check out this Website and see how you can experience your own version of peace on Earth and good will towards men. (Oh, and if you don’t care much for the good will towards men part, then offer it up to the animals instead.  The Website also lists charities that help abused or endangered animals!)

Happy New Year, everyone.  In honor of 2010, I’m sending out 100 Ideas for Creating a More Peaceful World – lovingly absconded from the www.justgive.org Website.

See you in 2010~

Tracy

100 Ideas for Creating a More Peaceful World
Creating world peace takes many forms, but surely it begins with individuals. It continues to be the most significant challenge of humankind and requires the efforts of each of us. Here are 100 ideas for creating a more peaceful world.

• Be generous with your smiles.
• Commit daily acts of kindness.
• Respect the Earth.
• Walk in a forest.
• Plant a tree.
• Contemplate a mountain.
• Don't pollute.
• Live simply.
• Skip a meal each week, and send $5.00 to an organization helping the hungry.
• Erase a border in your mind.
• Teach peace to children.
• Read Chief Seattle's Letter to the President.
• Be honest.
• Demand honesty from your government.
• Think about consequences.
• Commit yourself to nonviolence.
• Support nonviolent solutions to global problems.
• Speak up for a healthy planet.
• Demand reductions in military expenditures.
• Be fair.
• Pledge allegiance to the Earth and to its varied life forms.
• Think for yourself.
• Ask questions.
• Recognize your unique potential.
• Join an organization working for peace.
• Be less materialistic.
• Be more loving.
• Support an Arms Trade Code of Conduct.
• Oppose all weapons of mass destruction.
• Sign the Abolition 2000 International Petition.
• Work for an international ban on land mines.
• Use your special talents for a more harmonious world.
• Don't eat animals.
• Help the poor.
• Fight against militarism.
• Study the lives of peace heroes.
• Help create a community peace park or garden.
• Commemorate the International Day of Peace in your community (the third Tuesday in September).
• Help strengthen the United Nations.
• Support the creation of an International Criminal Court hold individual leaders accountable for crimes against peace, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.
• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and demand that your government live by it.
• Be aware of the rights of future generations.
• Sign the Cousteau Society Bill of Rights for Future Generations.
• Make decisions as though all life truly matters. It does!
• Join an action alert network.
• Make your voice heard by speaking out for peace.
• Laugh more.
• Play with a child.
• Support health, education and the arts over more weapons.
• Help educate the next generation to be compassionate and responsible.
• Accept personal responsibility for creating a better world.
• Sing.
• Write a poem.
• Organize a church service on the theme of peace.
• Learn about another culture.
• Help someone.
• Support the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF).
• Climb a mountain.
• Clear your mind.
• Breathe deeply.
• Sip tea.
• Express your views to government officials.
• Fight for the environment.
• Celebrate Earth Day.
• Think like an astronaut, recognizing that we have only one Earth.
• Be constructive.
• Ring a bell for peace.
• Plant seeds of peace. Work in a garden.
• Change a potential enemy into a friend.
• Watch the movie Amazing Grace and Chuck.
• Share.
• Be more peaceful.
• Send a note of appreciation.
• Tell your friends how much they matter.
• Say "I love you" more.
• Don't tolerate prejudice.
• Demand more from your elected officials.
• Walk by the ocean, a river, or a lake.
• Recognize that all humans have the right to life.
• Respect the dignity of each person.
• Be a leader in the struggle for human decency.
• Watch the movie King of Hearts.
• Send sunflowers to world leaders, and call for a world free of nuclear weapons.
• Oppose technologies that harm the environment.
• Lose an argument to a loved one.
• Read Hiroshima by John Hersey.
• Walk softly on the Earth.
• Appreciate the power of the sun.
• Speak out for global disarmament.
• Support a stronger world order.
• Teach nonviolence by example.
• Remember that "No man is an Island."
• Spend time in nature.
• Boycott war toys.
• Be thankful for the miracle of life.
• Read All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque.
• Remind your leaders that peace matters.
• Oppose violence in television programming for children.
• Listen to Beethoven's Ode to Joy.
• Celebrate peace.

(Photo by Darren Robertson)

(NAPS)—Even on a budget, you can put your best face forward. Here are some hints that can help from Dr. Robin Ashinoff, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Hackensack University Medical Center and Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at NYU.

“Not everyone can afford expensive treatments, but when purchasing skin care products, take a look at the ingredient panel—co-enzyme Q10 and vitamin E are important skin antioxidants and will help balance skin texture, moisturize, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles,” said Dr. Ashinoff.

To keep your skin protected and younger looking, she suggests you:

•    Apply SPF 30 or higher daily year-round to prohibit sunburn and premature aging.

•    Get a humidifier. If you have dry skin and cracked lips, a humidifier can bring moisture back into your skin.

•    Exercise regularly for good overall health including your skin, but if you’re exercising outdoors, remember to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that gives you UVA protection.

• Keep lip balm and moisturizing lotions by your alarm clock so you remember to apply them morning and night.

• Limit your sodium intake. Reasonable sodium intake and adequate water are necessary for overall well-being, as dehydration will make you look drawn, bring out dark circles under your eyes and make wrinkles appear deeper.

•    Exfoliate weekly. Exfoliation unclogs pores, keeps skin clean and helps reduce acne breakouts.

•    Moisturize daily. Look for creams with the ingredient ALL-Q plus, such as Gold Bond Ultimate Restoring Skin Therapy Lotion, which can reduce wrinkles and correct damage caused by sun and dryness.

Learn More
For more information on skin care, Dr. Ashinoff recommends the American Academy of Dermatology Web site, www.aad.org.

(NAPS)—There’s nothing like a shower to wake you up in the morning or relax you at night. But that shower could compromise the investment you make in your looks. While the minerals in water are naturally occurring and safe to drink, they can detract from the beauty of your hair and skin. Depending on the city, water contains many different minerals and each mineral can affect your beauty routine in a different way.

Hair Color
Many women complain of dull and uneven-looking hair color. What they don’t realize is that the copper in their water may be the culprit. Whether you color at home or in a salon, copper is present in most tap water from coast to coast. According to Dr. Xinhao Wang, a water expert at the University of Cincinnati, “Mineral content in tap water varies by city, with Peoria, Ill., Lincoln, Neb., and Boise, Idaho topping the list of areas that have a high amount of copper in their water compared to other cities.” During the coloring process, free radicals are formed when the hydrogen peroxide in the hair color formula comes in contact with the copper in water, which can affect the look of your color. Polly Blitzer, Editor in Chief of the Beauty Blitz, cautions, “If you live in a city with high percentages of copper in the water, it may be affecting your hair color.”

So what’s a girl to do? Using a product rich in antioxidants is a good start to prevent the formation of free radicals on the hair. “Choose a hair color product rich in antioxidants and vitamins C and E, like Clairol Natural Instincts, to prevent the formation of free radicals and preserve your hair color. The healthy formula ensures beautiful, natural-looking color every time,” explains Blitzer.

Shampoo
Do you ever feel like your shampoo just doesn’t work? It may not be your shampoo; it may be the type of water you have. Hard and soft water refers to the amount of calcium and magnesium in your water. The higher the mineral content, the harder the water, and this can affect how your shampoo works. “Shampoo is supposed to lather up on the hair to eliminate dirt. High levels of these minerals don’t allow suds to form, so you can’t thoroughly clean your hair. Calcium also leaves a deposit on your hair that weighs it down, making styling more difficult,” says Blitzer.

Simple changes in your shower can make all the difference. Blitzer recommends putting a filter in your showerhead to make sure the calcium in your water is not affecting your hair.

Soap
Extreme weather is one reason for dryness and irritation of the skin but hard water may be another. The calcium found in hard water binds with soap and forms a deposit on the skin that may lead to dryness and irritation. Blitzer advises, “Use products like Olay Total Effects that contain niacinamide, a skin care ingredient which has been proven to help accelerate skin surface turnover and moisturize. This will leave you with a youthful, more natural glow.”

Before you pack your bags and move to a city with less copper and other minerals in the tap water, try incorporating some of Blitzer’s simple tips into your normal beauty routine and prevent the tap water in your shower from compromising your looks.

For more information on dealing with minerals in your water, go to www.clairol.com.

Psychologist John A. Lee interviewed hundreds of people and concluded that there were a number of different ways of “being” in a relationship. Take the quiz below and find out what lies behind the eyes of your guy.

Circle the one that best describes your guy:

When you and your guy first met, he:

a. Immediately had a hunch that you were “the One”. (You may have found this out later, by the way.)
b. May have enjoyed the date, but took his time in really starting an official “relationship” with you.
c. Treated you as a friend at first. The love grew over time.
d. Was completely head over heels for you and called you constantly thereafter.
e. Compared your goals to his, mentally taking notes.

When Valentine’s Day comes, your guy will most likely:

a. Do something incredibly romantic and unexpected.
b. Forget. He’s never been one to remember those romantic touches.
c. Write you a love note about how important you are to him.
d. Insist that you spend the day together, and become upset if his card or gift seems more meaningful than yours.
e. Keep it simple and to the point. After all, you know how he feels about you, right?

On the long road to finding Happily Ever After, your guy:

a. Only had a few serious relationships before dating you.
b. Has played the field for years, but never really “expected” to get married.
c. Has remained friends with his ex-girlfriends, even though he’s completely committed to you.
d. Has been heartbroken again and again. He’s not afraid to tell you how different you are from those witches.
e. Has calmly explained that there really is no such thing as Happily Ever After. He believes in love, of course. But fairy tale happy endings? Come on!

If you circled mostly a’s, your guy is most likely an:

EROS. Eros men have an idealized image of their partner and believe that they were put on this planet to love one other person unconditionally. They stay loyal as long as they feel that feeling is being reciprocated. For them, romance is key!

Valentine’s Day Idea: Give him a candlelight massage and tell him how much he means to you. (And don’t forget to point out how sexy he is…it’ll make his day!)

If you circled mostly b’s, your guy is most likely a:

LUDUS. Ludus men have a difficult time committing themselves in a love relationship. A pure ludus will be concerned about causing hurt and will warn you in advance that commitment is going to be shaky, to put it mildly. These men usually avoid seeing their partner too often at the beginning of the relationship and when they marry, will oftentimes seem distant and full of secrets. A desire to play the field is an on-going struggle for this type.

Valentine’s Day Idea: Keep him guessing. This type of man needs constant mystery and challenge. Spice up your evening with something completely unexpected.

If you circled mostly c’s, your guy is most likely a:

STORGE. Storge men often grow up in supportive, loving families and view women as their equals. For them, lovers are meant to be “special” friends, with who they can share their truest feelings. If their relationships get threatened, they’ll fight tooth and nail to save it. If their sexual interest fades, however, beware. It’s a clear sign that trouble is on the horizon.

Valentine’s Day Idea: Think “quality time.” Plan to do something together that you’ll both enjoy. Great experiences and memories are the bedrock of your relationship.

If you circled mostly d’s your guy is most likely a:

MANIA. Mania men are obsessed and possessed by love. For them, love and relationships are difficult and all-absorbing. They are jealous and possessive and never quite believe that you love them as much as you say you do. Be careful. It’s a rare person who can maintain a long-term mania love and it’s no surprise that these men have a tendency to make relationships explode.

Valentine’s Day Idea: Um, run? Or plan your Valentine’s Dinner for three. Save that third seat for a therapist.

If you circled mostly e’s your guy is most likely a:

PRAGMA. Pragma men are as the name suggests—practical. They don’t fall in love with people who don’t fit into their lives’ plans and goals. They’re wary of excessive emotion but do appreciate signs of commitment. Love is important to them, but oftentimes find it hard to sacrifice peace of mind and a comfortable life for it. Living alone doesn’t scare them as much as a jealous rage does. So beware if your partner is pragmatic—don’t rock the boat too much.

Valentine’s Day Idea: Cook a nice meal at home, all his favorites. KISS is his favorite motto (Keep It Simple, Sister). But just be sure to supply plenty of the real ones as well.

When it comes to financially tightening our belts while planning a wedding, it can be tough knowing where to start. A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it’s hard giving up on those things that will make your wedding uniquely you. So my advice?

Don’t.

Get that pink cake, or special lighting, or whatever it takes to make it special. There’s another way to cut corners than short changing your day. Instead, think registry.

Once upon a time brides and grooms married in their late teens and early twenties, fresh out of college or mom and dad’s house without a penny to their names. But times have changed. Most of us have already had the chance to live on our own, whether it be in an apartment in college, or our own place when finished It’s rare for couples to come together without already having most of the necessities that are listed on a registry list. So instead of registering for those fancy crystal candlesticks (which are rather nice, by the way,) consider creating a honeymoon registry instead. A honeymoon registry enables your guests to put money towards your honeymoon instead of towards that third set of Williams Sonoma cookbooks or linen dish towels that only come out when company visits.

For more information about this option, I’ve posted a press release I received from a company who specializes in online honeymoon registries. Use this for informational purposes only, and do your homework before deciding. But this option looks promising! Just thought I’d pass it along.

Happy planning!

Tracy Przybysz

Wedding Couples Tighten Honeymoon Budgets in 2009 Many Look to Honeymoon Registries to Defray Costs

(Wilmington, DE – January 23, 2009) – In a recent survey conducted by Traveler's Joy, a popular online honeymoon registry service, 62 percent of respondents report that they plan to spend less on their honeymoon than originally intended due to the current economic downturn. The survey polled hundreds of Traveler's Joy couples with a wedding date in 2009 as to how the economy was affecting their wedding registry and honeymoon plans. Although the wedding and honeymoon industry was once considered recession-proof , the results concluded that even brides and grooms are cutting back as they plan their dream wedding and honeymoon. According to the Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding fell 24 percent in 2008, from an average cost of $28,704 in 2007 to $21,814 in 2008. As couples spend less on their wedding, they also reconsider their honeymoon spending and registry behavior. The majority of Traveler's Joy respondents still plan on taking a honeymoon, although 17 percent said they are postponing or possibly cancelling their honeymoon due to the economy. Among couples that are still planning to take a honeymoon, 62 percent say they plan to spend less on their honeymoon because of the economy. The surveyed couples noted many ways in which they plan to decrease costs, including staying closer to home, redeeming loyalty rewards for free airline tickets and hotel stays, taking advantage of travel discounts many hotels are offering, and cutting out some of the luxury extras like spa treatments and excursions. Couples have also found that honeymoon registries can be a good solution for helping to fund that dream getaway. A honeymoon registry is similar to a traditional wedding registry although it allows a couple to register for portions of their honeymoon to receive as wedding gifts. Of Traveler's Joy members, 45 percent of respondents said they were asking for more items from their honeymoon registry vs. their housewares registries. This has been a growing trend as couples are getting married at an older age and many already have the housewares they need. In the survey, Traveler's Joy members said that being able to take a honeymoon was more important to them than receiving traditional gifts. Many cited the stress of wedding planning as a reason for making a post-wedding getaway a priority. Others said that, given the state of the economy, they would rather receive funds towards their honeymoon than housewares that they don't need. ABOUT TRAVELER'S JOY, INC. Traveler's Joy, Inc. is a company dedicated solely to online honeymoon registries, so all members receive the highest level of personalized service. The site offers extensive proprietary advice on creating a registry, and researching and planning honeymoon travel. To learn more, visit www.travelersjoy.com or call 1-888-TRVL-JOY (1-888-878-5569).

I love weddings. But I have a confession to make. The last one I attended was my own, nearly nine years ago. For a writer and editor whose bulk writing content revolves around all things wedding related, this is not a good thing. My glimpses at happy brides most likely happen the same way you see them…through the Real Weddings pages of our magazine.

Since there is a lack, then, in my ability to experience weddings firsthand, I’ve had to turn to other sources to get my fix. And those sources also happen to be my delicious little secret--my mind candy, if you will.

Yes…

This writer and editor frequently indulges in reading magazines such as People, US, and other grocery store tabloids.

Consider it research, I say! Because while these starlets with far too much time on their hands may be living a lifestyle outside any normal person’s reach, they do, now and then, also get married. And a Hollywood bride can provide oodles of ideas to brides in the real world.

That’s my excuse. And I’m sticking to it.

So since we’re all on the search for new and inspiring bridal ideas, let’s take a look at who were our most notable brides in 2008. Granted, that opinion is worth about as much as the cost of magazines that promote them. But a little mind candy now and can be good for you. So allow me to share some from my stash.

TOP CELEBRITY BRIDES IN 2008

Portia de Rossi This former Arrested Development and Ally MacBeal star has most recently been known for her relationship with talk show dynamo Ellen DeGeneres. Thanks to recent changes in marital laws in California, the couple enjoyed a romantic wedding ceremony held at the couple's Los Angeles home. Her Gown: a blush pink Zac Posen creation consisting of a halter top and full, ballgown skirt.

Jenna Bush Even if you hate politics or the man formally at our country’s helm, you can’t knock the loving family who surrounded him. Twin daughter Jenna Bush married Henry Hage at a down home ceremony held on the grounds of the family's Prairie Chapel Ranch in Crawford, Texas. Her Gown: Oscar de la Renta. Constructed of silk organza accented with embroidery and matte beading.

Ashlee Simpson With a great set of pipes and a baby on board to boot, Simpson walked down the aisle to say her “I do’s” to Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz. Her Gown: An ivory lace Monique Lhuillier.

Mariah Carey This Grammy Award winner surprised fans with an unexpected pairing with Nick Cannon during a sunset wedding ceremony. Her Gown: Nile Cmylo wedding dress. The fabric was off-white, transforming into a pale pink to match Carey’s emerald-cut diamond engagement ring.

Beyonce Knowles Singer Beyonce Knowles wed longtime boyfriend and rapper Jay-Z in a private affair, followed by a lavish party at the rapper's Tribeca apartment.

Katharine McPhee A choir sang "Joyful, Joyful" after the American Idol finalist was pronounced the wife of Nick Cokas at the Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church. Her Gown: A Manuel Mota for Pronovias gown made of Spanish Chantilly lace and tulle.

Jewel Kilcher This Grammy Award winner married longtime love and rodeo champion Ty Murray at a beachside wedding at The Cove Atlantis. Her Gown: A Monique Lhuillier gown made of ivory lace.

Jessica Alba Alba secretly married Cash Warren, her longtime boyfriend and father of her child, in a quiet courthouse ceremony in Beverly Hills. Jessica and Cash applied for the wedding license and were married 40 minutes later. There were no guests, just the bride and groom. Her Gown:A long blue dress and had her hair in a simple ponytail.

Heidi Montag Thanks to their cheesy fame chasing, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt are the couple many love to hate. The Hills star wed her longtime beau in an unplanned, (and not-so-secret) ceremony in Cabos San Lucas, Mexico.

That’s why I love being a part of Alabama Weddings Magazine. Every day, I get to immerse myself in helping brides plan their ultimate expression of Love—a wedding. And while marriage is but a facet of love, it certainly is a shiny one, isn’t it? It is the pinnacle for most couples, and I savor writing about its inception--the planning— the details--all that goes into creating one unforgettable day.

And here’s the good news…That day will come…. regardless the price of eggs, or what’s happening with the stock market, or how much it costs for a gallon of gas. Despite any circumstance, Love has a way of pressing on.

So let’s enjoy planning your special day then, shall we? When Life seems uncertain, sometimes it all comes down to just needing something to celebrate. And what better thing to celebrate than a day devoted entirely to something that promises to remain--

For better or worse.

For richer or poorer.

In sickness and in health.

Love is phenomenal, isn’t it?

And aren’t you the luckiest person in the whole world
…Because that kind of Love, my friend, has found YOU.