As we all know, the groom's parents pay for his tux and the rehearsal dinner, and the bride's parents pay for everything else, right?...WRONG!
That antiquated approach to nuptial financial planning went out the window years ago. Of course, as in all matters pertaining to wedding planning, everything is a personal choice and a matter of taste. Therefore, if you're planning a truly traditional approach to your wedding, and money is no object for the bride's family, there's no easier way to do it than the old-fashioned way.
But today's economy dictates that wedding expenses be kept affordable and distributed amongst the participants as their financial condition allows. It is perfectly acceptable to involve everyone in your financial planning and accept or dismiss various contributions and suggestions.
Here we will attempt to guide you through a mix of the traditional and practical for your wedding plans.
HOW MUCH?
The first step is to examine your own financial state of affairs (and use common sense about your parents' money situations) and determine what the maximum amount of money you'd consider spending on your wedding.
Make it known to everyone involved that any contribution is welcome and use this opportunity to feel out how much of a contribution you might be able to ask of any participant. For the most part, you'll see a lot of volunteerism at the outset ("I'll pay for that", "We'll take care of that", "Don't worry about that, I've got it covered") and the initial pressures are significantly lessened. When you've got a fairly decent idea of how much money will go into the pot or which expenses will be covered by individual participants, this will set your basic guidelines.
WHO PAYS?
Traditionally, the bride's parents cover the bulk of the wedding expenses, with the groom's parents covering certain items such as the rehearsal dinner, and then giving the couple a gift in the ballpark of the amount spent by the bride's side (the honeymoon, a cash gift, an automobile, etc.). If your families are in a position to take that approach, you've got it made and all you'll have to worry about is the incidentals. But today it is not uncommon to find the two sides splitting things down the middle with just "token" gifts from the parents, or even splitting things three ways between the couple and both sets of parents.
Beyond the larger expenses covered by the couple and/or their parents, here's a list of "traditional" items covered by various participants which should help you get off to a good start:
1. Maid of honor covers her own expenses.
2. Bridesmaids cover their gowns.
(Ditto for Best Man and Ushers)
3. Ring Bearer and Flower Girl usually covered by their parents.
4. Rehearsal Dinner hosted and paid for by Groom's parents.
5. Out-of-town Guests travel and accommodations expenses paid for or provided by Bride and Groom.
Of course, you may find that in one case, the ring bearers parents can't afford his tux and you'll cover it, or your out-of-town guests insist on paying their own way.Be flexible! Get what you want wherever and however you can, and never look a gift horse in the mouth!
Good luck and always remember, it's never too early to start planning and shopping.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Friday, March 23, 2007
PLANNING THE PERFECT GETAWAY
Honeymoon Planning Tips
The origin and traditional meaning of the word "honeymoon" - according to Webster's Dictionary - is that for at least the duration of one cycle of the moon (or one month), your life together will be as "sweet as honey".
Your modern honeymoon means the trip of a lifetime! It is your chance to get away and enjoy each other with no interruptions or distractions after months of details and careful planning for your wedding often fraught with frustrations, disappointments and difficulties.
It is a time to get to know each other all over again; to get your marriage off to the right start; the foundation for a lifetime of beautiful memories.
When you consider how important the memory of your honeymoon will be in your marriage, you must conclude that careful planning is the key to a successful trip. You don't want any slipups taking time away from your time together.
SET A BUDGET
Originally, back in the days of the truly traditional wedding - when the bride's family paid for the ceremony and reception - the honeymoon was planned and paid for by the groom. I haven't heard of this happening in years! Are there any prospective brides out there who would leave the honeymoon destination and planning strictly up to her fiance? Nowadays, in most cases it is a shared decision and your first major expenditure together as husband and wife. Therefore, planning together is the key to a perfect trip.
The first and most important decision you'll need to make is how much to spend. You need to set a budget that's within your means and stick to it. Returning home to maxed-out credit cards or unaffordable vacation loan payments is a must to avoid. Your honeymoon represents the beginning of your life together, not the end of your hard-earned savings. Be sure to figure in spending money and "mad" money, because although "getting there is half the fun", what you get to do while you're there is really where the fun happens. And you'll surely be needing some souvenirs as mementos of your trip.!
WHERE TO GO
Deciding on your destination is the next big step. Choose somewhere you'll both enjoy, one which caters to both of your interests and idea of having a good time. For example, you could split your time between a leisurely cruise and a resort stay on land, followed by a flight back home at the end. If both of you are not the outdoorsy type, for instance, make sure there will be plenty of activities for the other person while one of you is out on the golf course or fishing.
Climate is another big consideration: do you like it warm and your intended likes it cool? Compromise with a moderate climate.
If time and/or money are considerations, one thing to consider these days is planning for a "local", abbreviated honeymoon, with the possibility of a longer, more expensive trip in the near or distant future.
The following would apply to almost anywhere one lives, but writing from the point of origin of this writer (southern New England), consider some of the terrific options you have available right in your own backyard:
SUMMER- Newport, Rhode Island A world-class resort which draws visitors from allover the planet- Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts; and- Block Island, Rhode Island resorts right here off the coast of New England which play host to visitors from all walks of life every summer right up to movie stars, royalty and the President of the United States!- Cape Cod, Massachusetts an entire area devoted almost exclusively to leisure activities with accommodations ranging anywhere from roughing-it styled camping to mansion rentals!
FALL- Vermont, New Hampshire and Western Massachusetts Foliage tours which are so spectacular they draw visitors from all points on the globe
WINTER- Vermont, New Hampshire and Western Massachusetts The finest skiing east of the Rocky Mountains
SPRING- All of the above!Springtime in New England is a time of renewal and the climate is perfectly suited to almost any of the activities one might have available at any other specific time of year!
These are only just a few of the areas and activities available close to home and just think about this: you can reach any of these places, in your own car, in just 1 to 4 hours following your ceremony/reception or starting out the next morning after a first night in the honeymoon suite of a top area hotel!
MODE OF TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is another concern: by land, by sea, or by air? Discuss your options.
Do you really want to spend your first couple of days together driving to your destination? Some people find it a rather romantic notion to drive, staying at a different Bed & Breakfast each evening.
Another example: are you both comfortable with flying? Fear of flying is certain to put a damper on even the most joyous of trips, but in any event, flying to your destination allows you to get right to it and start enjoying your trip immediately.
Or how about a leisurely cruise? You can relax for a few days after all the stressful planning and preparations and prepare yourselves for your final destination.
SEE A TRAVEL AGENT
Once you have clear idea of how much money you can spend, where you'd like to go, and how you'd like to get there, there's only one last thing you must do: SEE A TRAVEL AGENT!
A professional travel agent has years of experience and can get you where you want to go at the most affordable rate. There is also no service charge for using a travel agent! Use their knowledge; let them take care of the details. It's one less thing to worry about while planning for your wedding.
ALL-INCLUSIVE is a good thing to keep in mind is that most hotels and resorts offer a honeymoon "package" that will include extra services and perks to help make you comfortable and enjoy your trip. Remember, they want you back for your second honeymoon! Even if you're planning your own activities, the hotel will offer you special deals and treatment if they're made aware of the fact that you are honeymooners. Whether you're choosing a tour or a self-contained resort, there are many, many honeymooners specials available to you.
Resorts are a very romantic way to spend a private honeymoon. Their packages will include things like king-size beds, complimentary champagne, moonlight dancing and private dinners.
The true "all-inclusive" honeymoon is now the most popular plan by far. Just think - once you get to your destination, you have to worry about a thing! Just about every popular honeymoon destination (and some of the more exotic ones, too) offer a choice of resorts and/or packages to make your trip hassle free. Not only are these packages a bargain for the most part, but right now for 2002/2003, it is a buyer's market. Prices are plummeting and if you're able to take advantage of your long term planning, now is the time to book even if you're not getting married for a year or more. As the travel industry gets more and more competitive, here are some of the extras now being offered, things you can look for besides destination and price when making your decision:
- Car rental included- Breakfast from room service or even in bed- Free Health club services (massages, personal trainer, etc.) not just free use of the facility- Personal tour guides- Full suite instead of just a room
CRUISES
A cruise is also a wonderful way to spend your honeymoon. These massive ships offer almost everything available to you on land and also have special honeymoon plans and packages. These "all-inclusive" deals are highly recommended as a money-saver and as the simplest way to set your plans.
A cruise is also a leisurely way to spend your first few days as you head toward your final destination, or a relaxing "recovery" period by cruising home on your return trip. Nothing is more romantic than a moonlight stroll on the upper deck or watching the sun rise over an island paradise. And a cruise means non-stop great food without worrying about costs.
A travel agent will cover many small details like passport photos, visas, tipping customs, etc. They will have many videotapes and brochures available for you to peruse while deciding on your destination.
PACKING AND PERSONALS
That leaves only the personal details up to you, like packing. Consider the climate where you'll be staying and pack only the appropriate clothes. Pack as many personal items as possible. One of the ways a vacation spot makes its profits is by heavily inflating the prices on items like toothpaste and shampoo. Don't forget your camera, and while you're at it, throw in some extra film - don't buy "gift shop" film.
Invest in traveler's checks and knock down your credit cards so you have some headroom. Don't carry any significant amount of cash. The checks are insured against theft and loss and you won't find yourself stranded somewhere far away without any money.
Some must-have items (particularly if you are leaving the United States) are proof of age (driver's license AND birth certificate - photocopies will not do!), marriage license, health plan cards and other personal information (emergency contact numbers, etc).
And don't forget a travel clock! You won't want to miss out on one minute of the fun while you're away.
1-2-3!
Get an early start on your plans. Once you've set a date for the wedding, begin discussing your honeymoon, and check the availability of reservations and package deals at your desired destination. It's as easy as 1-2-3:
1. Set a Budget2. Decide on a Destination3. See a Travel Agent.
Don't forget to reserve your vacation time with your job or school. Confirm your plans, itinerary and reservations as least one week before you leave. This leaves plenty of time to correct or change any conflicts or wrong information. And last, but not least have the best man or some other trusted friend or relative on call to get you to the airport, dock or car rental agency at your appointed time of departure.
Your honeymoon is the start of something wonderful, and careful planning will ensure that all of your memories will be wonderful ones.
The origin and traditional meaning of the word "honeymoon" - according to Webster's Dictionary - is that for at least the duration of one cycle of the moon (or one month), your life together will be as "sweet as honey".
Your modern honeymoon means the trip of a lifetime! It is your chance to get away and enjoy each other with no interruptions or distractions after months of details and careful planning for your wedding often fraught with frustrations, disappointments and difficulties.
It is a time to get to know each other all over again; to get your marriage off to the right start; the foundation for a lifetime of beautiful memories.
When you consider how important the memory of your honeymoon will be in your marriage, you must conclude that careful planning is the key to a successful trip. You don't want any slipups taking time away from your time together.
SET A BUDGET
Originally, back in the days of the truly traditional wedding - when the bride's family paid for the ceremony and reception - the honeymoon was planned and paid for by the groom. I haven't heard of this happening in years! Are there any prospective brides out there who would leave the honeymoon destination and planning strictly up to her fiance? Nowadays, in most cases it is a shared decision and your first major expenditure together as husband and wife. Therefore, planning together is the key to a perfect trip.
The first and most important decision you'll need to make is how much to spend. You need to set a budget that's within your means and stick to it. Returning home to maxed-out credit cards or unaffordable vacation loan payments is a must to avoid. Your honeymoon represents the beginning of your life together, not the end of your hard-earned savings. Be sure to figure in spending money and "mad" money, because although "getting there is half the fun", what you get to do while you're there is really where the fun happens. And you'll surely be needing some souvenirs as mementos of your trip.!
WHERE TO GO
Deciding on your destination is the next big step. Choose somewhere you'll both enjoy, one which caters to both of your interests and idea of having a good time. For example, you could split your time between a leisurely cruise and a resort stay on land, followed by a flight back home at the end. If both of you are not the outdoorsy type, for instance, make sure there will be plenty of activities for the other person while one of you is out on the golf course or fishing.
Climate is another big consideration: do you like it warm and your intended likes it cool? Compromise with a moderate climate.
If time and/or money are considerations, one thing to consider these days is planning for a "local", abbreviated honeymoon, with the possibility of a longer, more expensive trip in the near or distant future.
The following would apply to almost anywhere one lives, but writing from the point of origin of this writer (southern New England), consider some of the terrific options you have available right in your own backyard:
SUMMER- Newport, Rhode Island A world-class resort which draws visitors from allover the planet- Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts; and- Block Island, Rhode Island resorts right here off the coast of New England which play host to visitors from all walks of life every summer right up to movie stars, royalty and the President of the United States!- Cape Cod, Massachusetts an entire area devoted almost exclusively to leisure activities with accommodations ranging anywhere from roughing-it styled camping to mansion rentals!
FALL- Vermont, New Hampshire and Western Massachusetts Foliage tours which are so spectacular they draw visitors from all points on the globe
WINTER- Vermont, New Hampshire and Western Massachusetts The finest skiing east of the Rocky Mountains
SPRING- All of the above!Springtime in New England is a time of renewal and the climate is perfectly suited to almost any of the activities one might have available at any other specific time of year!
These are only just a few of the areas and activities available close to home and just think about this: you can reach any of these places, in your own car, in just 1 to 4 hours following your ceremony/reception or starting out the next morning after a first night in the honeymoon suite of a top area hotel!
MODE OF TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is another concern: by land, by sea, or by air? Discuss your options.
Do you really want to spend your first couple of days together driving to your destination? Some people find it a rather romantic notion to drive, staying at a different Bed & Breakfast each evening.
Another example: are you both comfortable with flying? Fear of flying is certain to put a damper on even the most joyous of trips, but in any event, flying to your destination allows you to get right to it and start enjoying your trip immediately.
Or how about a leisurely cruise? You can relax for a few days after all the stressful planning and preparations and prepare yourselves for your final destination.
SEE A TRAVEL AGENT
Once you have clear idea of how much money you can spend, where you'd like to go, and how you'd like to get there, there's only one last thing you must do: SEE A TRAVEL AGENT!
A professional travel agent has years of experience and can get you where you want to go at the most affordable rate. There is also no service charge for using a travel agent! Use their knowledge; let them take care of the details. It's one less thing to worry about while planning for your wedding.
ALL-INCLUSIVE is a good thing to keep in mind is that most hotels and resorts offer a honeymoon "package" that will include extra services and perks to help make you comfortable and enjoy your trip. Remember, they want you back for your second honeymoon! Even if you're planning your own activities, the hotel will offer you special deals and treatment if they're made aware of the fact that you are honeymooners. Whether you're choosing a tour or a self-contained resort, there are many, many honeymooners specials available to you.
Resorts are a very romantic way to spend a private honeymoon. Their packages will include things like king-size beds, complimentary champagne, moonlight dancing and private dinners.
The true "all-inclusive" honeymoon is now the most popular plan by far. Just think - once you get to your destination, you have to worry about a thing! Just about every popular honeymoon destination (and some of the more exotic ones, too) offer a choice of resorts and/or packages to make your trip hassle free. Not only are these packages a bargain for the most part, but right now for 2002/2003, it is a buyer's market. Prices are plummeting and if you're able to take advantage of your long term planning, now is the time to book even if you're not getting married for a year or more. As the travel industry gets more and more competitive, here are some of the extras now being offered, things you can look for besides destination and price when making your decision:
- Car rental included- Breakfast from room service or even in bed- Free Health club services (massages, personal trainer, etc.) not just free use of the facility- Personal tour guides- Full suite instead of just a room
CRUISES
A cruise is also a wonderful way to spend your honeymoon. These massive ships offer almost everything available to you on land and also have special honeymoon plans and packages. These "all-inclusive" deals are highly recommended as a money-saver and as the simplest way to set your plans.
A cruise is also a leisurely way to spend your first few days as you head toward your final destination, or a relaxing "recovery" period by cruising home on your return trip. Nothing is more romantic than a moonlight stroll on the upper deck or watching the sun rise over an island paradise. And a cruise means non-stop great food without worrying about costs.
A travel agent will cover many small details like passport photos, visas, tipping customs, etc. They will have many videotapes and brochures available for you to peruse while deciding on your destination.
PACKING AND PERSONALS
That leaves only the personal details up to you, like packing. Consider the climate where you'll be staying and pack only the appropriate clothes. Pack as many personal items as possible. One of the ways a vacation spot makes its profits is by heavily inflating the prices on items like toothpaste and shampoo. Don't forget your camera, and while you're at it, throw in some extra film - don't buy "gift shop" film.
Invest in traveler's checks and knock down your credit cards so you have some headroom. Don't carry any significant amount of cash. The checks are insured against theft and loss and you won't find yourself stranded somewhere far away without any money.
Some must-have items (particularly if you are leaving the United States) are proof of age (driver's license AND birth certificate - photocopies will not do!), marriage license, health plan cards and other personal information (emergency contact numbers, etc).
And don't forget a travel clock! You won't want to miss out on one minute of the fun while you're away.
1-2-3!
Get an early start on your plans. Once you've set a date for the wedding, begin discussing your honeymoon, and check the availability of reservations and package deals at your desired destination. It's as easy as 1-2-3:
1. Set a Budget2. Decide on a Destination3. See a Travel Agent.
Don't forget to reserve your vacation time with your job or school. Confirm your plans, itinerary and reservations as least one week before you leave. This leaves plenty of time to correct or change any conflicts or wrong information. And last, but not least have the best man or some other trusted friend or relative on call to get you to the airport, dock or car rental agency at your appointed time of departure.
Your honeymoon is the start of something wonderful, and careful planning will ensure that all of your memories will be wonderful ones.
ALL BRIDES ARE BEAUTIFUL
There is a well-known proverb that states that "all brides are beautiful". This is certainly true for most brides - the glow of happiness is never more evident than on your most special day. But, while this may be a lovely sentiment, it isn't a certainty! For sure, every bride must plan and strive to look her best at her wedding by helping nature along.
The key here, as in all other aspects of wedding planning, is to set a schedule and stick to it. In this article, we'll try to point out the most important aspects of your trousseau and styling so you'll look - and feel - your best on your wedding day.
GOWN SIZE
You would not believe the number of women who actually order their gown 2 (or even more) sizes too small because they "plan to lose before the wedding"! Ask any dressmaker how many emergency refittings they've had to undertake because of unrealistic goals set by well-meaning brides.
If you feel you should lose a certain amount of weight before the wedding, that's great! But this requires very, very careful and long-term planning. Begin at least a year before the wedding by choosing your gown and determining your "perfect" size. Find out exactly what the deadline is to set a final size and strive to reach that size by the ORDER DATE. If you have not reached your weight goal by then, do not expect to be able to reach it during "countdown" time. Just think of all the temptations during the last few months before a wedding: parties, dinners, fast-food stops while running around, quickie meals on-the-run, sampling the food from the caterers, etc., etc. In addition, nutrition is most important: you don't want to be rundown and malnourished as you approach your wedding date. And remember, you became engaged at your current weight - your fiance thinks you're beautiful now!
HAIR STYLING
Another common disaster in wedding day planning! Your hair style is part of your everyday appearance and your fiance and others find you attractive as you are now. The easiest way to deal with this is to "refine" your current style and plan to have a fresh cut (and/or perm and/or coloring) just before your wedding day.
If you feel you'd like to change your hair in a drastic manner, this, too, requires very careful and long-term planning. Begin about a year (or however long you've determined it takes for your hair to "grow out") before the wedding by selecting a new style and having it done. If it works, you simply need to maintain it until the wedding. If not, you have time to return to your "normal" or regular style. Do not - we repeat - DO NOT plan to get a brand new hair style just before your wedding. This can lead to disaster!
If you're determined to change your hairstyle, perhaps it is because you're regular cut is not the best choice for you in the first place. Begin by "playing" with your hair using this checklist:
ROUND FACE- DO: Part your hair on the side - it helps to make your face look thinner- DON'T: Part your hair in the center, especially if your hair is short - it accentuates the roundness
V-SHAPED FACE- DO: Wear an updo - it accentuates your cheekbones, especially if you have the sides hanging freely which provides a frame for those features you wish to accentuate
- DON'T: Wear short hair - this will draw attention to the pointed characteristics of your face and draw the eye all the way down to your chin!
SQUARE FACE- DO: Wear your hair UP! This will soften the outline of your face and accentuate the rounder and softer features on the face- DON'T: Wear it shoulder length - this only helps to "block" out your face even more
Check through beauty, bridal and other magazines for tips and current styles and pick a couple of looks which you think will work for you. THEN GO TO A PROFESSIONAL. As they say, don't try this at home, kids! Your hair stylist will assist you in your final decision and make the actual cut. Don't cut it yourself - you'll be flirting with disaster.
MAKEUP AND NAILS
This is an easier aspect of your planning: during the months before the big date, experiment with your current look. For makeup, try refining your regular approach with an eye to the formal. Or maybe try a makeover - it's fun and not too expensive! Once you've hit on the perfect combination, all you've got to do is remember how you got there!
Nails are just a little trickier. If you're used to shorter nails (or, God forbid, you're a nail-biter), don't just plan to grow out your nails or get overlays. Go to a nail salon and try them out - take them for a test drive, if you will. You don't want to have trouble eating and drinking at the reception or break one off because you're not used to the extra length. Be realistic. Plan the color around your gown, flowers and makeup: your nail color and style are subservient to all of the above. Have fun with it, but once you make a decision, stick with it.
LAST MINUTE PREPARATIONS
Once you've achieved your final look, you'll need to make very, very careful plans to take care of things just before the wedding - either by yourself/with your wedding participants, or by securing the services of the specialist as fitted to your schedule. Here's some tips - ask yourself the following questions and set a schedule for the easiest preparations possible:
GOWN
Can you get dressed alone? Will you need some help from a friend or relative?
Will you need any final fittings or last-minute adjustments by the dressmaker or tailor?
HAIR
Can you do it yourself or with the help of your mother, honor person or another trusted accessory?
Can you have it done the day before? The night before? Or do you need it done JUST BEFORE the wedding?
MAKEUP
A definite last minute undertaking. Can you do it yourself or with a little help?
Do you need your makeup artist on hand just before you leave for the ceremony?
NAILS
Still the easiest - for your normal look, a day before. For something more complex, the evening before, or the morning of - if you've got time.
As always, careful planning is the key to wedding day beauty. It can be a stress-free experience to remember for life. And don't forget all the cameras and camcorders: your appearance on your wedding day is for "posterity", if only within your own family. The goal is to look the very best you can, possibly the very best you'll ever look, and that is, of course, to look the way YOU feel best and most comfortable.
Just remember that old proverb, if everything goes perfectly, or you hit a snag or two, "all brides are beautiful".
View WeddingUSA.com and Allweddingphotography.com for more helpful planning articles.
The key here, as in all other aspects of wedding planning, is to set a schedule and stick to it. In this article, we'll try to point out the most important aspects of your trousseau and styling so you'll look - and feel - your best on your wedding day.
GOWN SIZE
You would not believe the number of women who actually order their gown 2 (or even more) sizes too small because they "plan to lose before the wedding"! Ask any dressmaker how many emergency refittings they've had to undertake because of unrealistic goals set by well-meaning brides.
If you feel you should lose a certain amount of weight before the wedding, that's great! But this requires very, very careful and long-term planning. Begin at least a year before the wedding by choosing your gown and determining your "perfect" size. Find out exactly what the deadline is to set a final size and strive to reach that size by the ORDER DATE. If you have not reached your weight goal by then, do not expect to be able to reach it during "countdown" time. Just think of all the temptations during the last few months before a wedding: parties, dinners, fast-food stops while running around, quickie meals on-the-run, sampling the food from the caterers, etc., etc. In addition, nutrition is most important: you don't want to be rundown and malnourished as you approach your wedding date. And remember, you became engaged at your current weight - your fiance thinks you're beautiful now!
HAIR STYLING
Another common disaster in wedding day planning! Your hair style is part of your everyday appearance and your fiance and others find you attractive as you are now. The easiest way to deal with this is to "refine" your current style and plan to have a fresh cut (and/or perm and/or coloring) just before your wedding day.
If you feel you'd like to change your hair in a drastic manner, this, too, requires very careful and long-term planning. Begin about a year (or however long you've determined it takes for your hair to "grow out") before the wedding by selecting a new style and having it done. If it works, you simply need to maintain it until the wedding. If not, you have time to return to your "normal" or regular style. Do not - we repeat - DO NOT plan to get a brand new hair style just before your wedding. This can lead to disaster!
If you're determined to change your hairstyle, perhaps it is because you're regular cut is not the best choice for you in the first place. Begin by "playing" with your hair using this checklist:
ROUND FACE- DO: Part your hair on the side - it helps to make your face look thinner- DON'T: Part your hair in the center, especially if your hair is short - it accentuates the roundness
V-SHAPED FACE- DO: Wear an updo - it accentuates your cheekbones, especially if you have the sides hanging freely which provides a frame for those features you wish to accentuate
- DON'T: Wear short hair - this will draw attention to the pointed characteristics of your face and draw the eye all the way down to your chin!
SQUARE FACE- DO: Wear your hair UP! This will soften the outline of your face and accentuate the rounder and softer features on the face- DON'T: Wear it shoulder length - this only helps to "block" out your face even more
Check through beauty, bridal and other magazines for tips and current styles and pick a couple of looks which you think will work for you. THEN GO TO A PROFESSIONAL. As they say, don't try this at home, kids! Your hair stylist will assist you in your final decision and make the actual cut. Don't cut it yourself - you'll be flirting with disaster.
MAKEUP AND NAILS
This is an easier aspect of your planning: during the months before the big date, experiment with your current look. For makeup, try refining your regular approach with an eye to the formal. Or maybe try a makeover - it's fun and not too expensive! Once you've hit on the perfect combination, all you've got to do is remember how you got there!
Nails are just a little trickier. If you're used to shorter nails (or, God forbid, you're a nail-biter), don't just plan to grow out your nails or get overlays. Go to a nail salon and try them out - take them for a test drive, if you will. You don't want to have trouble eating and drinking at the reception or break one off because you're not used to the extra length. Be realistic. Plan the color around your gown, flowers and makeup: your nail color and style are subservient to all of the above. Have fun with it, but once you make a decision, stick with it.
LAST MINUTE PREPARATIONS
Once you've achieved your final look, you'll need to make very, very careful plans to take care of things just before the wedding - either by yourself/with your wedding participants, or by securing the services of the specialist as fitted to your schedule. Here's some tips - ask yourself the following questions and set a schedule for the easiest preparations possible:
GOWN
Can you get dressed alone? Will you need some help from a friend or relative?
Will you need any final fittings or last-minute adjustments by the dressmaker or tailor?
HAIR
Can you do it yourself or with the help of your mother, honor person or another trusted accessory?
Can you have it done the day before? The night before? Or do you need it done JUST BEFORE the wedding?
MAKEUP
A definite last minute undertaking. Can you do it yourself or with a little help?
Do you need your makeup artist on hand just before you leave for the ceremony?
NAILS
Still the easiest - for your normal look, a day before. For something more complex, the evening before, or the morning of - if you've got time.
As always, careful planning is the key to wedding day beauty. It can be a stress-free experience to remember for life. And don't forget all the cameras and camcorders: your appearance on your wedding day is for "posterity", if only within your own family. The goal is to look the very best you can, possibly the very best you'll ever look, and that is, of course, to look the way YOU feel best and most comfortable.
Just remember that old proverb, if everything goes perfectly, or you hit a snag or two, "all brides are beautiful".
View WeddingUSA.com and Allweddingphotography.com for more helpful planning articles.
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