Your Honeymoon

Whether it’s a secluded island , a romantic cruise, a European adventure, or a weekend getaway, you can be assured of finding the perfect retreat by working with a professional travel consultant.  Travel consultants are trained to ask questions to determine the type of trip and destination that will be perfect for both of you to celebrate, and have a wonderful time. They know unique out-of-the way places, the best travel packages, and travel and custom information that you need to know, in order to have a relaxing trip. The can also make last minute adjustments, time changes, flight cancellations and more, something that discount websites cannot do. And, they don’t charge for the service.

Today’s honeymooners are often looking for unusual honeymoons. They are not looking for the “perfect” honeymoon; they are looking for a unique time and experience at their destination. Life can be hectic and planning a wedding can be stressful, so the reward for the completion of your wedding planning, is to get away together, to share some quiet time,  with a lot of romance and memory-making.

Steve Pomerleau Photography, Windsor, Ontario- will travel

Traditionally, the honeymoon was the responsibility of the groom. Today, it is often a joint decision. Many couples prefer not to embark on their honeymoon immediately after the reception;  but they wait until the following day or week, spending their wedding night or weekend at a nearby hotel, resort or bed and breakfast inn. This allows flexibility in planning and a less hectic schedule with some breathing space, after dealing with so many wedding details.

Making travel arrangements yourself can be frustrating and time consuming, and costly. Travel agencies are connected directly to airlines, cruise lines and resorts and can offer money-saving packages that include everything,  including food and drinks.  They are your best ally, but you must begin to make plans as soon as you set your wedding date.

They can also assist with destination weddings and work with the resort you’ve chosen, to accommodate all your plans. They will also assist all your guests that will be traveling to your celebration and take all the stress off everyone’s shoulders.

Ask them about a Honeymoon Registry, where your guests can contribute to your trip, in lieu of a traditional wedding gift. It is a great option and your family and guests will know that you were able to choose that truly special destination, because of their assistance.

If you are considering a cruise or tour, ask questions and make sure you will be comfortable with the age group you will be with.  Resorts  and cruise ships today can be geared to different age groups.

You can have a luxurious honeymoon regardless of your budget, if you plan carefully. The more time you give yourselves to plan, the better  the amenities will be surrounding your honeymoon.

It is important to keep your honeymoon on a priority list. This may be the only time you get to celebrate together for many years to come. Make it a special time and one that is unforgettable for the two of you. This is your time together so relax and enjoy!

Wedding Planning Marriage and Matters of Money

It is important to have a frank discussion with your spouse-to-be about matters of money.  Each of you has a money-management style and by writing it down and having a  discussion them, is an important area of your soon- to- be marriage.

Different scenarios may arise when you have this discussion. One partner may see an early retirement in their future, while the other may want to buy a new home or look at debt reduction. Different priorities need to jell together to avoid any future misunderstanding. Budgets need to be set and life style and future goals made a  priority.

There are many financial decisions a couple must deal with before the big day.  Included in these decisions are- how pay cheques will be used; whether there will be joint accounts and how household bills will be paid.

Photo: Sheryl Davies

Priorities may include debt reduction, reviewing insurance, a home saving fund and establishing an investment plan.  You also need to talk frankly about credit cards use. A saving plan strategy  and establishing an emergency fund should also be priorities.

It really matters that you sit down and have a pre-marriage talk about money. Each of you come from a different perspective and by talking openly and honestly about your future stability is essential to a good relationship in the future.

Wedding Planning Rev up Your Reception

Everyone wants their wedding to be memorable and chances are ,you will have reception veterans on your invitation list.  So how do you create reception that your guests won’t forget?

Receptions can be  classic or contemporary;  romantic,  warm, authentic, traditional, country or urban; themed or not themed. You want to create  an inviting, warm and ideal atmosphere where all your guests feel comfortable.

Start by visiting your site by asking to see it set up for another couple’s celebration. This gives you the opportunity to feel the vibe of the room and how best to make it work optimally for you.

Serve food that is appropriate for the time of day, as well as the season. A good example would be a light brunch for an outdoor wedding. Talk to your catering manager about the menu and your budget during your first meeting.

Send invitations early enough to make sure you have a firm guest count two weeks before your wedding day. This will keep everyone on track and organized.

Have an open bar where your guests aren’t required to pay for their own drinks.  Also, remove all tip jars. This is your day and you have invited your honoured guests.

Choose a good Master/ Mistress of Ceremonies who can keep the tempo moving.  Make this choice wisely as it will set the tone for everything that takes place during your celebration.

Assigned seating may be more work for you,  but it will make your guests feel more at ease. It is easier to control the dynamics of your groups this way.  Knowing your guests will ensure a great time for everyone without any awkwardness.

Review your song lists so both your young and older guests can participate on the dance floor.

Please lock up your gifts in a secure room to avoid theft.

Try to keep your post-wedding photo session short. Your guests are eagerly awaiting your arrival.

And, remember to pause often to soak up the magic that is your wedding. Time will fly and this is what you and your spouse have spent so much time planning. Your wedding will have your own personality and feel, and with careful thought and planning it will be one of your life’s unforgettable moments.

 

Wedding Planning Contemporary Ceremony Trends

Today’s ceremonies are often personalized with wedding officiators speaking in friendly, less formal tones, directly to the bride and groom. There’s more interaction with families. Brides (and grooms) are often escorted down the aisle by both parents.

The wedding party may face the guests, or sit on specially placed benches rather than standing in a line with their backs to the guests. Most formal and semi-formal ceremonies are still held in religious institutions like churches and synagogues, but a surprising number (both religious and civil) are held in picturesque indoor or outdoor locations.

Brandon Scott Photography, Windsor, Ontario- will travel

Be innovative about the receiving line, but don’t eliminate it entirely unless you have an alternative plan for the couple and parents to personally greet each guest. For instance, couples may whisk back up the aisle after the ceremony to greet them in an outer room. Or, receive guests outdoors in pleasant weather. Brides and grooms might decide to visit every guest at their reception. If there is no receiving line, parents should d the same.

Wedding Planning Bed and Bath Gift Registry

Bridal registry is one of the highlights of your upcoming wedding. It makes it very easy for your guests to know what you really want. Register for all price points so people can gift you for all your parties- from your engagement to your wedding day.

Your home is your castle and the bed and bath area is one that is of utmost importance.  Comfort from the busy world should be a priority and an escape  from the pressures of a busy life.  Pamper yourself and ensure a relaxing atmosphere and a soothing escape from the pressures of everyday life.

Your master bedroom should be comfortable for sleeping and attractive and calming to look at. Part of the luxury is the quality of the materials you have to choose from. Percale, a fine combed cotton yarn is woven  about 180 to 220 threads per square inch. Percale sheets are light in weight, durable and more expensive than the lowest grade, which is muslin, which is made with thicker yarn with 128 to 140 threads per square inch. Muslin is rarely seen in the 21st century for obvious reasons.

Seek out the higher thread count and cotton for comfort. The more cotton content ( it does go to over 400 threads per square inch or more), is softer, smoother and can serve you for many years to come.

A starter set for the master bedroom should include three sets of bed linen. Duvets are popular for their warmth and the lightness they deliver. For blankets, it is recommended you begin with two winter blankets, two summer coverlets and one spread or comforter. Duvet covers, pillow shams, dust ruffle and neck rolls, all provide the luxurious extras. And, don’t forget about the guest bath and bedroom, where you’ll want to pamper any company that may visit.

Linens today are beautiful with a multitude of choices available.  With the change of the bed, the entire decor of the room will change, whatever the season.

For the bath, a starter set includes three towel sets. Oversize bath sheets, bath, hand and guest towels, a bath mat set, shower curtain and accessories;  including soap dish, tooth brush holder, wastebasket and laundry hamper, complete the bathroom ensemble.

While today’s choices offer an infinite variety of selection, surveys indicate that many first time consumers are looking for quality that will last for many years to come; permanent press sheets for ironing, and colour fast linens, so sheets don’t bleed or fade in the wash. Treat them well and they can last for over 10 years.

It is a fact that the more you spend on bedding and bath items, the longer they will serve you, and won’t require replacing.

Remember to register for your all your bath and bed needs. Your guests will be delighted to know they are purchasing the items you have chosen and all the colours, sizes and accents will coordinate.