Five Things Your Wedding Photographer SHOULD Offer
You're getting married, right? Congratulations! You want your wedding day to be as perfect and beautiful as you've always dreamed. However, if you choose the wrong photographer, your day may be a lot less than perfect, and you may not be satisfied with the images your photographer captures. Bummer. So, how do you choose the right photographer?
Here's how. Make sure your wedding photographer offers you these five things. Then you can relax and feel confident the love, special moments and important details of your wedding day will be captured in beautiful images for a lifetime of memories.
1. Do you like the photographer's work?
Look at a fairly good selection of the photographers wedding images, not just a few photos on a web site. It's best if you can see at least an album or two and a proof book of a complete wedding. The albums probably represent the best of the photographer's work, and the proof book shows all the typical images he or she captures during a wedding day. How do the images look to you? Are they pleasing to look at? Does the lighting and the color look good to you? Is the photographer's style what you are looking for? Most of our bridal couples are looking for a mix of photojournalistic images and classic posed traditional ones. Make sure your photographer is capable of, and comfortable with, taking the style of images you want for your wedding. If you don't like the photographer's work, there is no need to consider them further. Also, make sure the work you see was done by the photographer who will photograph your wedding. Some studios will show you a lot of good work from various photographers, but will not guarantee you will get the photographer whose work you like the best. Sometimes, a husband and wife team like ours is the best way to be sure the photographer's work you see is the work you will get.
2. Do you like the photographer's personality and mannerisms?
Is the photographer confident, easy going and not a nervous ninny? Does the photographer have a good sense of humor? Remember, the photographer will be present through most of your wedding day, interacting with you, your wedding party, your family, and your guests. A demanding, inflexible, and uptight photographer can make your day unpleasant. I know you don't want that! Make sure you and your spouse-to-be get along well with the photographer you choose. If the photographer is going to have a second photographer help at your wedding, meet the assistant photographer and make sure you feel comfortable with them also. To get to know your photographer before you choose them, it is really important you meet with them personally. If it is physically impossible to meet with the photographer, you should make sure some of their testimonials from previous clients make you feel comfortable with the photographer's personality.
3. Does the photographer have a strong sense of professional commitment to photographing your wedding and a professional work ethic?
Does the photographer use professional cameras, lenses and flash systems? Does he or she have at least some lenses that will produce good images in low light situations (f2.8 aperture)? Does the photographer use a soft box over the flash and keep the flash above the lens on both horizontal and vertical photos to minimize shadows in their images? Does he or she always bring a complete set of backup equipment, or bring a second photographer with another set of equipment, to every wedding? How will the photographer and their assistant be dressed on your wedding day? Ask them. Hopefully, they will professional enough to arrive dressed in a tux, suit, or dressy dress. Although, if your photographer is a man and he says he's coming in a dressy dress, you might worry a little about that :-). You should get the feeling that your photographer is dedicated to making sure your wedding day is wonderful, and that all of the love, emotions and important details will be captured in images you will be able to enjoy for the rest of your life.
4. Does your photographer have the experience to anticipate all the good things that will happen on your wedding day, and the experience to deal with the bad things that could happen also?
An experienced photographer will have photographed enough weddings to anticipate and capture special moments during your day, and the important details that may easily be missed by a "newbie". An experienced photographer also knows that things do go wrong sometimes and will be able to anticipate and deal with them, often without you even knowing that something went wrong. That's why a complete set of backup equipment is necessary. My little kit of duct tape, extra cables, pen knife with scissors, and band-aids has been a life saver several times.
5. Does your photographer offer you the right value?
Not the right price, but, the right value. If your photographer doesn't have all of the above four characteristics, it may not matter what their prices are. If the photographer has all four, that's a big part of the value they offer you. In this case, the price should be less important. Just make sure your photographer will provide what is really important to you and is upfront with you about costs for everything you want. Someone who offers a "low" price up front may sound attractive. But, things change when you find they charge extra for every location stop, for the digital image files, for a studio set up at the reception, and so on. A photographer who charges twice as much, but includes almost everything, can often be a better value for you.
So, there you have it. Choose your wedding photographer based on the above five factors, and you will go a long way toward having the wedding of your dreams. Good luck and congratulations again.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wedding Budget Tips
Budgeting Tips for the Wedding
Weddings are suppose to be a joyful time in our life, but for many people, they turn out to be a costly nightmare! However, this does not have to be the case at all. In fact, there are tons of different wedding budget ideas out their that you can use to get the most out of your wedding without having to spend an arm and a leg. A wedding budget is also a good way to make sure that you do not go to over the top with planning the wedding. After all, you are starting a new life with the person you love, and you don't want to start off that life in debt because of your wedding! Today we are going to cover a few wedding budget ideas that could save you a ton of money but still give you that wedding you have always dreamed of.
Sample Wedding Budget Ideas that you can use:
•First of all, you already know that flowers can make or break a wedding. However, that does not mean that you have to hire someone to make your flower arrangements. Online you can find tons of different flower arrangements that you can do yourself. After finding the flower arrangement that is right for you (weather it's with fake or real plants), you can gather friends and family together to help you make them. Budget wedding flowers like these can save you tons of money on your wedding.
•The next budget wedding idea has to do with planning your wedding during an off peak season. There are some seasons that are always loaded with weddings. During these times, the prices of popular vendors are going to go through the roof. However, if you can get married during off months, like November through April, then you are going to get a much better deal on services.
•A wedding budget is not complete without a wedding coordinator. When people think of a wedding coordinator, they think of extra expenses. However, wedding coordinators of today can help you by keeping you within a budget that you need. Not only can they help you stay within the budget you have set, but they can help you plan everything, which will take stress off of you.
•Another very costly thing at weddings is the bar. There are many companies that you can hire that will set up a “five hour bar” for you. This is a bar that serves drinks for five hours. Normally this is long enough to get people through the party. However, a great alternative to this is to use a budget bar. This is where you have a bar set up where people can just grab beer or wine all night long. Maybe for an hour you will serve cocktails, but mostly it will just be the beer and wine. Also, champagne punch is always a very classy touch if that is what you are looking for. It allows you to be a little classy without having to spend too much money.
•Next you have to note that a wedding budget can not be put together if you wait until the last minute, meaning that you don't need to put tasks off until the last second. Start planning early. It is better to be over prepared than under prepared. You may also note that this helps you to be more relaxed about the wedding.
•Another good task to give you the feeling that you are saving money is to pay ahead of time for things. Do not wait until the wedding day to pay for everything at once. Although you are really still paying the full price, it will feel like you are spending less money, because you are paying for it a little at a time. This helps out more than people know.
•Next, be sure that you are on a realistic track! It is one thing to tell people what you “want” for your wedding and another thing all together to tell people what you “need” for your wedding. Cover the things that you need first, and find out how much it will be before you get into ordering things that you want.
•Another good tip for budget weddings is to have place card favors. This is a great way to tell people thanks for coming to the wedding without having to spend a lot of money. After all, wedding favors should not have to break your bank.
Overall, when it comes to weddings, you want to be debt free by the end of it, or at least not add any more debt to what you already have. You want your wedding to be a fun day, and a day that you remember because you married the person of your dreams, not because you went further into debt!
Weddings are suppose to be a joyful time in our life, but for many people, they turn out to be a costly nightmare! However, this does not have to be the case at all. In fact, there are tons of different wedding budget ideas out their that you can use to get the most out of your wedding without having to spend an arm and a leg. A wedding budget is also a good way to make sure that you do not go to over the top with planning the wedding. After all, you are starting a new life with the person you love, and you don't want to start off that life in debt because of your wedding! Today we are going to cover a few wedding budget ideas that could save you a ton of money but still give you that wedding you have always dreamed of.
Sample Wedding Budget Ideas that you can use:
•First of all, you already know that flowers can make or break a wedding. However, that does not mean that you have to hire someone to make your flower arrangements. Online you can find tons of different flower arrangements that you can do yourself. After finding the flower arrangement that is right for you (weather it's with fake or real plants), you can gather friends and family together to help you make them. Budget wedding flowers like these can save you tons of money on your wedding.
•The next budget wedding idea has to do with planning your wedding during an off peak season. There are some seasons that are always loaded with weddings. During these times, the prices of popular vendors are going to go through the roof. However, if you can get married during off months, like November through April, then you are going to get a much better deal on services.
•A wedding budget is not complete without a wedding coordinator. When people think of a wedding coordinator, they think of extra expenses. However, wedding coordinators of today can help you by keeping you within a budget that you need. Not only can they help you stay within the budget you have set, but they can help you plan everything, which will take stress off of you.
•Another very costly thing at weddings is the bar. There are many companies that you can hire that will set up a “five hour bar” for you. This is a bar that serves drinks for five hours. Normally this is long enough to get people through the party. However, a great alternative to this is to use a budget bar. This is where you have a bar set up where people can just grab beer or wine all night long. Maybe for an hour you will serve cocktails, but mostly it will just be the beer and wine. Also, champagne punch is always a very classy touch if that is what you are looking for. It allows you to be a little classy without having to spend too much money.
•Next you have to note that a wedding budget can not be put together if you wait until the last minute, meaning that you don't need to put tasks off until the last second. Start planning early. It is better to be over prepared than under prepared. You may also note that this helps you to be more relaxed about the wedding.
•Another good task to give you the feeling that you are saving money is to pay ahead of time for things. Do not wait until the wedding day to pay for everything at once. Although you are really still paying the full price, it will feel like you are spending less money, because you are paying for it a little at a time. This helps out more than people know.
•Next, be sure that you are on a realistic track! It is one thing to tell people what you “want” for your wedding and another thing all together to tell people what you “need” for your wedding. Cover the things that you need first, and find out how much it will be before you get into ordering things that you want.
•Another good tip for budget weddings is to have place card favors. This is a great way to tell people thanks for coming to the wedding without having to spend a lot of money. After all, wedding favors should not have to break your bank.
Overall, when it comes to weddings, you want to be debt free by the end of it, or at least not add any more debt to what you already have. You want your wedding to be a fun day, and a day that you remember because you married the person of your dreams, not because you went further into debt!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Top 10 Wedding Favors Brides Are Buying
Wedding Favor Trends For 2009 - What Brides Are Buying
Sure we can tell you what we like as our top ten wedding favors, but how authentic would that list be? Over the years, new trends emerge which lead many to believe certain favors are “all the rage”. For the trendy and modern bride there is a plethora of super chic, new wedding favors to select from. And for the traditional bride, there is even a larger selection of wedding favors on the market to choose between. So what’s a bride to do?
To narrow down your favor choices, why not consider these top 10 wedding favor categories and items.
1) Wedding Favor Boxes and Packaging - I don’t think the economy has anything to do with this category being first, brides have traditionally given out Jordan Almonds or candies as wedding favors. With so many boxes, bags, mint tins, pails and unique containers such as little luggage bags - it is no wonder why there is such a selection available - brides want containers for their favors. Our most popular, tried and true favor is our Miniature Silver Pails & Buckets.
2) Wine Stopper Wedding Favors - A favorite category throughout the years, wine stoppers or bottle stoppers are a traditional wedding favor - and for good reason. With so many households owning wine (whether it be for cooking or drinking) everyone can use a wine stopper. Wine stoppers aren’t only for wine though - their tapered design can multiple O rings can fit a variety of bottles and neck sizes. Our bestseller in this category is our Chrome Heart Bottle Stopper With Free Personalized Tags
3) Candy Wedding Favors - a smart choice for couples getting married, candy wedding favors are something guaranteed to please everyone on your guest list. From chocolates to personalized mint tins, gumball machines to personalized candy bars - if its edible, it’s a best seller. Some brides are combining the personalized wedding trend with DIY favors on a budget which is why our Personalized Candy Jars fit this category perfectly and are our bestseller.
4) Personalized Glassware - Remember back in the days when you would get a champagne glass with the couple’s name and wedding date on it? Well - personalized glassware remains very popular. Our bestselling glassware is our Personalized shot glass / votive holders, but our Spiral Stem Champagne Flutes and Personalized Wine Glasses also do very well. For a modern touch, select a Monogram design.
5) Place Card Frames - Let’s face it - your wedding thank you photo will be wallet sized and mailed to your guests after the wedding. But what are they to do with it if they don’t have a frame which fits? Besides, you’ll need something to hold your seating assignments and place cards. Voila! A frame which serves double duty as reception décor and as a wedding favor. Our most popular frame is our Beautifully Beaded Place Card / Photo Frame in Silver, but it is also available in gold.
6) Personalized Wedding Favors - years ago, people used to tie ribbons to their favors or tulle Jordan almond pouches to add a personalized touch to their favors. (And they still do!) But for a more modern touch, couples are giving out personalized wedding favors to their guests. While it’s always been a touch decision as to what favors would suit the men and women on a guest list, our Personalized Two Of A Kind Playing Cards suit this age old dilemma remarkably.
7) Wedding Bells - Nothing says traditional like a wedding bell. Whether they are sending the couple off with a ring or ringing for a kiss, bells make great wedding favors. While our Mini Ring For A Kiss bells do remarkably well, we do not suggest using them as favors - table decorations, favor tie ons, yes, but favors no - these are just too small. Our most popular wedding bell is our Fluted Wedding Bells in Silver or Gold. They have been featured in many magazines and articles and are a beautiful, traditional, shape, size and feel.
8) Wedding Fans - Since the majority of weddings occur between the months of April through September, it is no wonder why wedding fans do so well - these are the warmest months of the year. Fans can be used for outdoor weddings, beach weddings, in churches without air conditioning - and the most popular wedding fans we carry are our Mini Buri Fans and our Sandalwood Fans in Glass Top White Boxes.
9) Mirror Wedding Favors - I think mirrors do so well for several reasons: they are stylishly designed, they are affordable, and many brides feel that wedding favors are ultimately used by their female attendees. They also make for great bridal shower favors, so this is possibly why this category does so amazing well. If you look in this section, 6 of our top 100 favors are bestselling. Our most popular are our Handbag design compact mirrors and our Styling Black Heart Design Mirrors.
10) Candle Wedding Favors - Candles can range from the traditional to the modern, from the sleek to elaborate. Crystal to resin. There are so many candles marketed to brides there is definitely a design to suit your wedding taste. Our most popular wedding favor candle is our Rose Ball Candle With Free Personalized Tags.
I hope that this article was able to give you some wedding favor ideas for your upcoming nuptials. If you need any further suggestions, ideas or advice feel free to contact us for additional ideas and assistance.
© 2009 Erica Tevis, Little Things Favors
Sure we can tell you what we like as our top ten wedding favors, but how authentic would that list be? Over the years, new trends emerge which lead many to believe certain favors are “all the rage”. For the trendy and modern bride there is a plethora of super chic, new wedding favors to select from. And for the traditional bride, there is even a larger selection of wedding favors on the market to choose between. So what’s a bride to do?
To narrow down your favor choices, why not consider these top 10 wedding favor categories and items.
1) Wedding Favor Boxes and Packaging - I don’t think the economy has anything to do with this category being first, brides have traditionally given out Jordan Almonds or candies as wedding favors. With so many boxes, bags, mint tins, pails and unique containers such as little luggage bags - it is no wonder why there is such a selection available - brides want containers for their favors. Our most popular, tried and true favor is our Miniature Silver Pails & Buckets.
2) Wine Stopper Wedding Favors - A favorite category throughout the years, wine stoppers or bottle stoppers are a traditional wedding favor - and for good reason. With so many households owning wine (whether it be for cooking or drinking) everyone can use a wine stopper. Wine stoppers aren’t only for wine though - their tapered design can multiple O rings can fit a variety of bottles and neck sizes. Our bestseller in this category is our Chrome Heart Bottle Stopper With Free Personalized Tags
3) Candy Wedding Favors - a smart choice for couples getting married, candy wedding favors are something guaranteed to please everyone on your guest list. From chocolates to personalized mint tins, gumball machines to personalized candy bars - if its edible, it’s a best seller. Some brides are combining the personalized wedding trend with DIY favors on a budget which is why our Personalized Candy Jars fit this category perfectly and are our bestseller.
4) Personalized Glassware - Remember back in the days when you would get a champagne glass with the couple’s name and wedding date on it? Well - personalized glassware remains very popular. Our bestselling glassware is our Personalized shot glass / votive holders, but our Spiral Stem Champagne Flutes and Personalized Wine Glasses also do very well. For a modern touch, select a Monogram design.
5) Place Card Frames - Let’s face it - your wedding thank you photo will be wallet sized and mailed to your guests after the wedding. But what are they to do with it if they don’t have a frame which fits? Besides, you’ll need something to hold your seating assignments and place cards. Voila! A frame which serves double duty as reception décor and as a wedding favor. Our most popular frame is our Beautifully Beaded Place Card / Photo Frame in Silver, but it is also available in gold.
6) Personalized Wedding Favors - years ago, people used to tie ribbons to their favors or tulle Jordan almond pouches to add a personalized touch to their favors. (And they still do!) But for a more modern touch, couples are giving out personalized wedding favors to their guests. While it’s always been a touch decision as to what favors would suit the men and women on a guest list, our Personalized Two Of A Kind Playing Cards suit this age old dilemma remarkably.
7) Wedding Bells - Nothing says traditional like a wedding bell. Whether they are sending the couple off with a ring or ringing for a kiss, bells make great wedding favors. While our Mini Ring For A Kiss bells do remarkably well, we do not suggest using them as favors - table decorations, favor tie ons, yes, but favors no - these are just too small. Our most popular wedding bell is our Fluted Wedding Bells in Silver or Gold. They have been featured in many magazines and articles and are a beautiful, traditional, shape, size and feel.
8) Wedding Fans - Since the majority of weddings occur between the months of April through September, it is no wonder why wedding fans do so well - these are the warmest months of the year. Fans can be used for outdoor weddings, beach weddings, in churches without air conditioning - and the most popular wedding fans we carry are our Mini Buri Fans and our Sandalwood Fans in Glass Top White Boxes.
9) Mirror Wedding Favors - I think mirrors do so well for several reasons: they are stylishly designed, they are affordable, and many brides feel that wedding favors are ultimately used by their female attendees. They also make for great bridal shower favors, so this is possibly why this category does so amazing well. If you look in this section, 6 of our top 100 favors are bestselling. Our most popular are our Handbag design compact mirrors and our Styling Black Heart Design Mirrors.
10) Candle Wedding Favors - Candles can range from the traditional to the modern, from the sleek to elaborate. Crystal to resin. There are so many candles marketed to brides there is definitely a design to suit your wedding taste. Our most popular wedding favor candle is our Rose Ball Candle With Free Personalized Tags.
I hope that this article was able to give you some wedding favor ideas for your upcoming nuptials. If you need any further suggestions, ideas or advice feel free to contact us for additional ideas and assistance.
© 2009 Erica Tevis, Little Things Favors
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
How to plan a "GREEN" wedding.
How to Plan a Green Wedding
Sure, green weddings are all the rage, but you'll need to go the extra mile to make yours stand apart from the rest.
Green Weddings – Things to Consider:
Simplify
The overarching theme here should be simplification. There are eco-friendly versions of most wedding products, but the best option is usually to forego the items altogether. Reuse wherever possible - and save not only resources, but cash too.
Weigh the expenses
That said, some items you just can't live without, and usually the green version is more expensive than the original. You'll need to factor this into your wedding budget. To keep your budget in check, determine which areas you're willing to spend more on for a good cause (i.e. organic cuisine), and where you can save to make up for that added expense (i.e. forego the wedding dress or favors). This wedding budget guide offers even more budgeting advice
Patronize
Many new companies have entered the growing green weddings market. Before booking your vendors, check out businesses that claim to provide green services and confirm that they really do.
Inform
One green turn deserves another. Let your guests know the steps you've taken to plan your green wedding, and show them that an elegant event doesn't have to be harmful to the environment. Who knows, many of your guests may be inspired to do the same.
All in the Details – Green Wedding Ideas
Invitations & Stationery
1. Recycle - use recycled paper or paper made from alternative fiber – such as hemp or bamboo. Check out these resources for an array of custom, recycled papers: Custompaper.com or JamPaper.com
2. Splurge on calligraphy – calligraphy may cost more, but it saves inks, toners, solvents and chemicals involved in printing.
3. Condense – save trees by minimizing inserts and other paper products. Always print on front and back, and try to fit it all on one sheet.
4. Go completely green – send all correspondence via email. The etiquette gods may swoon – but if you're dead set on being green, electronic mailings are the most earth friendly way to go.
Location
1. Rent for a cause - find a venue that will benefit from your site rental fee – such as a museum, gallery or other cultural organization. Confirm how that venue will use your fee.
2. Go outside - a beach, the woods, gardens – they all make an ideal setting for a green wedding (just be sure to leave it as you found it).
3. Find a green venue - some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water and energy, reducing waste, or serving locally grown/organic menus. Check out these resources for green minded venues:
- Green Hotels Association (www.greenhotels.com)
- Green Seal (www.greenseal.com)
Décor Elements
1. Use candlelight – not only are candles energy efficient, they also create a soft romantic glow for an elegant reception. Better yet, look for soy candles - they're cleaner and longer burning since they're made from a renewable resource.
2. Use bamboo – one of the most sustainable materials on earth, bamboo is an eco-friendly décor option with an organic, modern feel. Use bamboo stalks for centerpieces or other décor elements.
Flowers
1. Think double duty – invite your ceremony arrangements to the reception! You can use them to decorate your cake or gift table – you'll waste less and save money doing it.
2. Buy organic, locally grown blooms – organic flowers are grown in an environmentally friendly way, without pesticides.
Getting locally grown ones will save the fuel burned from transporting the flowers. If you can't find a local florist who can provide organic blooms, order yours from OrganicBouquet.com
3. Conserve cut flowers – using cut flowers just once is a waste. See if you can share yours with another wedding taking place on the same day.
4. Skip cut flowers altogether – top your tables with potted arrangements for guests to take and plant in their yards after the wedding.
Menu
1. Think organic – ensure that you, your guests and the staff won't be exposed to pesticides. Many caterers specialize in organic foods, and almost any caterer can provide an organic menu if you ask them.
2. Think local – if you're concerned about the cost involved in a completely organic menu, go local instead. Serving locally grown food eliminates fuel reliance and supports local farmers. Check out Localharvest.org or Localfoodworks.org to find farmers markets, farms and other sources of local food.
3. Reuse utensils – find a caterer who recycles materials and/or uses linen and china instead of disposables.
4. Donate the leftovers – work with your caterer to send leftovers to a food shelter or other organization.
Cake
1. Sub ingredients – have your baker use organic and/or local sugar, flour, butter and eggs. Some bakers even specialize in organic cakes.
Attire
1. Go secondhand – a used gown reduces fuels used in creating a new one.
2. Get green fibers – natural fibers like silk and organic cotton are better for the environment than synthetic ones.
3. Go couture – if your wallet can afford it, couture gowns are usually made from natural fabrics.
4. Donate – provide a green gown decision for another bride when you give or sell yours after the wedding.
Favors
Avoid wasteful trinkets - donate to a charity in the name of your guests
Transportation
1. Limit long distance travel – have the wedding in a location where few guests will have to fly to get there.
2.Walk - host your room block, ceremony and reception at the same site – or within walking distance
3. Carpool – organize car pools for your guests in hybrid vehicles
4. Getaway in low emission style – get creative and use a non-motorized vehicle for your final sendoff – bikes, horseback, sleds, skates, wagons, or any old school conveyance will do.
Other Green Ideas
The truth is – no matter how great your green intentions are, most weddings have a huge environmental impact from the fuel used transporting your guests – via car or plane – to your wedding. Since this is extremely difficult to avoid, the "greenest" brides are purchasing carbon offsets to reduce their wedding's footprint.
How it works: calculate the mileage guests will travel, and offset their carbon dioxide emissions by donating to programs that plant trees or preserve rain forests. TerraPass.com is a website that does this for you – you enter your wedding details, and the site calculates your footprint, charges you accordingly, and then invests the money for you in energy saving technologies.
Article Author:
Cori Russell of Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine
Sure, green weddings are all the rage, but you'll need to go the extra mile to make yours stand apart from the rest.
Green Weddings – Things to Consider:
Simplify
The overarching theme here should be simplification. There are eco-friendly versions of most wedding products, but the best option is usually to forego the items altogether. Reuse wherever possible - and save not only resources, but cash too.
Weigh the expenses
That said, some items you just can't live without, and usually the green version is more expensive than the original. You'll need to factor this into your wedding budget. To keep your budget in check, determine which areas you're willing to spend more on for a good cause (i.e. organic cuisine), and where you can save to make up for that added expense (i.e. forego the wedding dress or favors). This wedding budget guide offers even more budgeting advice
Patronize
Many new companies have entered the growing green weddings market. Before booking your vendors, check out businesses that claim to provide green services and confirm that they really do.
Inform
One green turn deserves another. Let your guests know the steps you've taken to plan your green wedding, and show them that an elegant event doesn't have to be harmful to the environment. Who knows, many of your guests may be inspired to do the same.
All in the Details – Green Wedding Ideas
Invitations & Stationery
1. Recycle - use recycled paper or paper made from alternative fiber – such as hemp or bamboo. Check out these resources for an array of custom, recycled papers: Custompaper.com or JamPaper.com
2. Splurge on calligraphy – calligraphy may cost more, but it saves inks, toners, solvents and chemicals involved in printing.
3. Condense – save trees by minimizing inserts and other paper products. Always print on front and back, and try to fit it all on one sheet.
4. Go completely green – send all correspondence via email. The etiquette gods may swoon – but if you're dead set on being green, electronic mailings are the most earth friendly way to go.
Location
1. Rent for a cause - find a venue that will benefit from your site rental fee – such as a museum, gallery or other cultural organization. Confirm how that venue will use your fee.
2. Go outside - a beach, the woods, gardens – they all make an ideal setting for a green wedding (just be sure to leave it as you found it).
3. Find a green venue - some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water and energy, reducing waste, or serving locally grown/organic menus. Check out these resources for green minded venues:
- Green Hotels Association (www.greenhotels.com)
- Green Seal (www.greenseal.com)
Décor Elements
1. Use candlelight – not only are candles energy efficient, they also create a soft romantic glow for an elegant reception. Better yet, look for soy candles - they're cleaner and longer burning since they're made from a renewable resource.
2. Use bamboo – one of the most sustainable materials on earth, bamboo is an eco-friendly décor option with an organic, modern feel. Use bamboo stalks for centerpieces or other décor elements.
Flowers
1. Think double duty – invite your ceremony arrangements to the reception! You can use them to decorate your cake or gift table – you'll waste less and save money doing it.
2. Buy organic, locally grown blooms – organic flowers are grown in an environmentally friendly way, without pesticides.
Getting locally grown ones will save the fuel burned from transporting the flowers. If you can't find a local florist who can provide organic blooms, order yours from OrganicBouquet.com
3. Conserve cut flowers – using cut flowers just once is a waste. See if you can share yours with another wedding taking place on the same day.
4. Skip cut flowers altogether – top your tables with potted arrangements for guests to take and plant in their yards after the wedding.
Menu
1. Think organic – ensure that you, your guests and the staff won't be exposed to pesticides. Many caterers specialize in organic foods, and almost any caterer can provide an organic menu if you ask them.
2. Think local – if you're concerned about the cost involved in a completely organic menu, go local instead. Serving locally grown food eliminates fuel reliance and supports local farmers. Check out Localharvest.org or Localfoodworks.org to find farmers markets, farms and other sources of local food.
3. Reuse utensils – find a caterer who recycles materials and/or uses linen and china instead of disposables.
4. Donate the leftovers – work with your caterer to send leftovers to a food shelter or other organization.
Cake
1. Sub ingredients – have your baker use organic and/or local sugar, flour, butter and eggs. Some bakers even specialize in organic cakes.
Attire
1. Go secondhand – a used gown reduces fuels used in creating a new one.
2. Get green fibers – natural fibers like silk and organic cotton are better for the environment than synthetic ones.
3. Go couture – if your wallet can afford it, couture gowns are usually made from natural fabrics.
4. Donate – provide a green gown decision for another bride when you give or sell yours after the wedding.
Favors
Avoid wasteful trinkets - donate to a charity in the name of your guests
Transportation
1. Limit long distance travel – have the wedding in a location where few guests will have to fly to get there.
2.Walk - host your room block, ceremony and reception at the same site – or within walking distance
3. Carpool – organize car pools for your guests in hybrid vehicles
4. Getaway in low emission style – get creative and use a non-motorized vehicle for your final sendoff – bikes, horseback, sleds, skates, wagons, or any old school conveyance will do.
Other Green Ideas
The truth is – no matter how great your green intentions are, most weddings have a huge environmental impact from the fuel used transporting your guests – via car or plane – to your wedding. Since this is extremely difficult to avoid, the "greenest" brides are purchasing carbon offsets to reduce their wedding's footprint.
How it works: calculate the mileage guests will travel, and offset their carbon dioxide emissions by donating to programs that plant trees or preserve rain forests. TerraPass.com
Article Author:
Cori Russell of Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine
Monday, August 31, 2009
Wedding Candles!
Wedding Candles
by: Michael Kabel
Wedding candles symbolize hope, romance, tradition, and spirituality. The flame of a candle represents passion, loyalty, and devotion. A lit candle in a window denotes home and homecomings; two candles lit together signify unity.
During the wedding ceremony, a lighted candle represents the bond between two people, the enduring flame shining as an example to others. Such symbols have for thousands of years been part of the marriage ritual, and are found across virtually all cultures. The use of tapers – slim, individual candles – to light a single unity candles is also a popular ritual, and retailers are beginning to stock such items in a variety of shapes and themes.
Modern wedding candles often reflect something important to the couple’s values. For example, at one recent wedding, a couple with Irish heritage chose to light a unity candle with an Irish wedding blessing inscribed on its side. At another, a deeply religious man and woman lighted a candle with a verse from the book of Corinthians printed along its stem. The verse included special words about the joining of man and woman, words they felt especially pertinent to their faith and marriage.
In wedding receptions, candles are increasingly popular as wedding favors, given to guests as a kind of symbolic thank you and reproduction of the ceremony’s significance. With the gift of a candle, guests feel part of the ceremony and take their favor away as a kind of souvenir of the reception itself. There are several different kinds of candles used as favors available. One recent trend is giving a candle personalized with the couple’s name and the date of the ceremony on the base or stem. Another is giving candles shaped like wedding elements – a wedding cake candle, for example, or candles shaped like coffee cups and saucers.
Candles might also highlight an event’s theme. Receptions with a beach theme might order candles with seashell decorations; fall-themed weddings might include gel candles with leaves pressed inside. One couple, whose groom was a career Navy officer, gave candles with sculpted anchors to each of their guests. The candles were lit at the beginning at the dinner, and flooded the reception hall with quiet elegance.
Some experts point to the recent popularity of candles as a resurgence in attention to tradition. “People ask for candles, because they want that classic touch of elegance,” one Atlanta-based wedding planner said. “You hear about a candlelit dinner, it impresses immediately. I think, especially for larger receptions, the candles encourage a sense of intimacy that maybe you wouldn’t otherwise have in a room full of people. It’s hard to find fault with the sight of dozens of candles burning, anyway.”
There are candles available for any number of themes, and most are reasonably priced and can be ordered in volume.
My Wedding Favors.com has a complete selection of both unity candles and candle favors, many of which may be personalized and order in volume. For a complete listing of the company’s products, please visit their website here: www.myweddingfavors.com.
by: Michael Kabel
Wedding candles symbolize hope, romance, tradition, and spirituality. The flame of a candle represents passion, loyalty, and devotion. A lit candle in a window denotes home and homecomings; two candles lit together signify unity.
During the wedding ceremony, a lighted candle represents the bond between two people, the enduring flame shining as an example to others. Such symbols have for thousands of years been part of the marriage ritual, and are found across virtually all cultures. The use of tapers – slim, individual candles – to light a single unity candles is also a popular ritual, and retailers are beginning to stock such items in a variety of shapes and themes.
Modern wedding candles often reflect something important to the couple’s values. For example, at one recent wedding, a couple with Irish heritage chose to light a unity candle with an Irish wedding blessing inscribed on its side. At another, a deeply religious man and woman lighted a candle with a verse from the book of Corinthians printed along its stem. The verse included special words about the joining of man and woman, words they felt especially pertinent to their faith and marriage.
In wedding receptions, candles are increasingly popular as wedding favors, given to guests as a kind of symbolic thank you and reproduction of the ceremony’s significance. With the gift of a candle, guests feel part of the ceremony and take their favor away as a kind of souvenir of the reception itself. There are several different kinds of candles used as favors available. One recent trend is giving a candle personalized with the couple’s name and the date of the ceremony on the base or stem. Another is giving candles shaped like wedding elements – a wedding cake candle, for example, or candles shaped like coffee cups and saucers.
Candles might also highlight an event’s theme. Receptions with a beach theme might order candles with seashell decorations; fall-themed weddings might include gel candles with leaves pressed inside. One couple, whose groom was a career Navy officer, gave candles with sculpted anchors to each of their guests. The candles were lit at the beginning at the dinner, and flooded the reception hall with quiet elegance.
Some experts point to the recent popularity of candles as a resurgence in attention to tradition. “People ask for candles, because they want that classic touch of elegance,” one Atlanta-based wedding planner said. “You hear about a candlelit dinner, it impresses immediately. I think, especially for larger receptions, the candles encourage a sense of intimacy that maybe you wouldn’t otherwise have in a room full of people. It’s hard to find fault with the sight of dozens of candles burning, anyway.”
There are candles available for any number of themes, and most are reasonably priced and can be ordered in volume.
My Wedding Favors.com has a complete selection of both unity candles and candle favors, many of which may be personalized and order in volume. For a complete listing of the company’s products, please visit their website here: www.myweddingfavors.com.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Great Wedding Day Hair
Wedding Day Hair
"How will I wear my hair?" Every bride faces that predicament. Your wedding day hairstyle is a significant aspect of the total bridal look, worth some thought. If you have a bad hair day, the photos to prove it will be around for years to come. On the plus side, it's a great opportunity to do something really special with your hair.
The Test Run
Do a "test run" with hair and make-up, just the way you plan to wear it on your wedding day. Have someone take several pictures from different angles and with different facial expressions. Then, look closely at the pictures. Do you like what you see? Is there too much make-up or not enough? How do you feel about the hair style--too much height or not enough?
If something doesn't seem right, start again and do another test run until everything comes together. It's important to actually take photos of yourself because it can give you a different perspective rather than just looking in the mirror.
During the "test run," walk around with the hairstyle you plan to wear to determine its comfort level. A good rule is: the simpler, the better, since pins can hurt, and intricate styles are often delicate and apt to fall. The photos, wedding and reception could last as long as ten hours, will the hairstyle stand the test of time?
So Many Styles
Consider the time of day and type of wedding when choosing a style. Loose styles are appropriate for informal or daytime weddings, while up-do's portray a formal, evening look. Strive for balance. The hairstyle and headpiece needs to look balanced to the dress and body type. Like a puzzle, all the pieces fit together to make a lovely picture.
Remember some hairstyles can add inches to your height, and shorter brides may want to use this to their advantage.
One option is to let the texture of the hair determine the style. Thicker and coarser hair stays up the best, while slicker or finer hair is better with the front up and the back down.
Will you be wearing a veil? If so, your hair style and your veil must work well together. It might be a good idea to get your veil first, or at least have some idea of the type veil you want.
Tiara headpieces continue to be popular. They look their most elegant atop a romantic style updo. That way, you can choose to wear a veil for the ceremony, but remove it for the reception if you wish, and show off the artwork of your updo!
The Salon
Schedule your wedding day hair appointment at least eight weeks ahead. But, don't expect to get your regular stylist to do your wedding hair if you desire an intricate updo. This is a specialty service and best left for the resident expert, so request the right person for the job.
Stylists and makeup artists do their best work in their own environments with their own tools, so have your wedding party meet at the salon a couple of hours before they need to be at the ceremony for pictures. This increases efficiency, and usually costs less!
If you do arrange for them to work in your home, provide adequate space with good lighting.
General Wedding Hair Suggestions
It's best not to go overboard with hair spray. "Helmet head" is not an appealing look for any woman.
If your stylist tells you to show up with dirty hair for your wedding day, don't be too surprised. Some styles work best when the hair isn't too clean, depending on your hair type. Just washed hair can be fly-away and less manageable.
Remember to wear a button down shirt when you're getting your make-up and hair done. Otherwise it's either mess up your finished look or cut off your shirt! When you're ready, step into your gown, rather than pulling it over your head.
To ensure your hair looks healthy on your wedding day, take good care of it in the months prior. There are plenty of affordable deep-conditioning treatments available for at home use. But don't use one the day of your wedding or your hair could end up looking flat and greasy. The same holds true with chemical treatments. This is not the time for surprises!
One of the newer trends is ornamenting your hairstyle. Check the bridal section of your local craft store for creative options. There are also many decorative hair sticks, barrettes and bobby pins to add to your hairstyle.
"How will I wear my hair?" Every bride faces that predicament. Your wedding day hairstyle is a significant aspect of the total bridal look, worth some thought. If you have a bad hair day, the photos to prove it will be around for years to come. On the plus side, it's a great opportunity to do something really special with your hair.
The Test Run
Do a "test run" with hair and make-up, just the way you plan to wear it on your wedding day. Have someone take several pictures from different angles and with different facial expressions. Then, look closely at the pictures. Do you like what you see? Is there too much make-up or not enough? How do you feel about the hair style--too much height or not enough?
If something doesn't seem right, start again and do another test run until everything comes together. It's important to actually take photos of yourself because it can give you a different perspective rather than just looking in the mirror.
During the "test run," walk around with the hairstyle you plan to wear to determine its comfort level. A good rule is: the simpler, the better, since pins can hurt, and intricate styles are often delicate and apt to fall. The photos, wedding and reception could last as long as ten hours, will the hairstyle stand the test of time?
So Many Styles
Consider the time of day and type of wedding when choosing a style. Loose styles are appropriate for informal or daytime weddings, while up-do's portray a formal, evening look. Strive for balance. The hairstyle and headpiece needs to look balanced to the dress and body type. Like a puzzle, all the pieces fit together to make a lovely picture.
Remember some hairstyles can add inches to your height, and shorter brides may want to use this to their advantage.
One option is to let the texture of the hair determine the style. Thicker and coarser hair stays up the best, while slicker or finer hair is better with the front up and the back down.
Will you be wearing a veil? If so, your hair style and your veil must work well together. It might be a good idea to get your veil first, or at least have some idea of the type veil you want.
Tiara headpieces continue to be popular. They look their most elegant atop a romantic style updo. That way, you can choose to wear a veil for the ceremony, but remove it for the reception if you wish, and show off the artwork of your updo!
The Salon
Schedule your wedding day hair appointment at least eight weeks ahead. But, don't expect to get your regular stylist to do your wedding hair if you desire an intricate updo. This is a specialty service and best left for the resident expert, so request the right person for the job.
Stylists and makeup artists do their best work in their own environments with their own tools, so have your wedding party meet at the salon a couple of hours before they need to be at the ceremony for pictures. This increases efficiency, and usually costs less!
If you do arrange for them to work in your home, provide adequate space with good lighting.
General Wedding Hair Suggestions
It's best not to go overboard with hair spray. "Helmet head" is not an appealing look for any woman.
If your stylist tells you to show up with dirty hair for your wedding day, don't be too surprised. Some styles work best when the hair isn't too clean, depending on your hair type. Just washed hair can be fly-away and less manageable.
Remember to wear a button down shirt when you're getting your make-up and hair done. Otherwise it's either mess up your finished look or cut off your shirt! When you're ready, step into your gown, rather than pulling it over your head.
To ensure your hair looks healthy on your wedding day, take good care of it in the months prior. There are plenty of affordable deep-conditioning treatments available for at home use. But don't use one the day of your wedding or your hair could end up looking flat and greasy. The same holds true with chemical treatments. This is not the time for surprises!
One of the newer trends is ornamenting your hairstyle. Check the bridal section of your local craft store for creative options. There are also many decorative hair sticks, barrettes and bobby pins to add to your hairstyle.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Wedding Dress Power Moves
Power Moves
Look your best in your dress with these key exercises from celebrity fitness expert Marco Borges
Wedding Fitness & Health:
Strapless? Halter? Mini? Now that you have the perfect dress, it's time to get the bridal body you want—the one that will make you look and feel stunning when you walk down the aisle.
World-class fitness instructor Marco Borges has all the right moves to help you achieve your goal. We asked Borges, author of Power Moves: The 4 Motions to Transform Your Body for Life and trainer to celebrities such as Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, Shakira and Jay-Z, to tell us the best exercises for brides preparing to wear certain dress styles. Read on for his power-packed tips.—Elayne Fluker
If you're wearing: a strapless or halter-top dress
Work your: shoulders
The workout: "The Resistance Band Shoulder Fly Lunge is the ideal move for a strapless-/halter-ready body. This exercise targets the muscles of the shoulders, glutes, legs and core while also toning the stubborn fat that likes to pop over the bra strap."
1. Begin with feet shoulder-width apart and resistance band securely under stationary foot. Hold bands at your side, palms in.
2. Lunge back with free foot (foot without the band) and quickly raise your arms using your shoulders.
3. Step forward. Lower arms.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Looking for a strapless dress? Click here.
If you're wearing: a sleeveless or cap-sleeve dress
Work your: arms
The Workout: "For this type of dress, I would recommend the Incline Curl and Press. This exercise works the biceps, triceps, chest and shoulders—giving you toned arms. This movement is simple and requires very little equipment."
1. Lie flat on an incline bench with your knees up, one dumbbell in each hand.
2. Curl dumbbells up to chest, then press up above your chest.
3. Bring the dumbbells back to your chest, then to starting position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
View our wedding dress galleries for sleeveless or cap-sleeve gowns.
If you're wearing: a backless dress
Work your: back
The workout: "For a dress that shows off the back, I like Resistance Band Rows. This move is especially good for the muscles of the back, arms and legs (isometrically) and is great at toning that stubborn fat that likes to pop up over the bra strap."
1. Begin with feet shoulder-width apart and the band securely fastened directly in front of you on anything that’s firmly in place (e.g., the knob of a closed door or a gym pole).
2. Bend at knees; lean forward slightly; keep your back straight.
3. Pull the band toward the bottom of your chest; return to starting position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to wedding date).
Still deciding on your dress? View thousands of styles here.
If you're wearing: a minidress
Work your: thighs
The workout: "For this type of dress, I like the Overhead Medicine Ball Squat. I chose this move because it is a compound move that incorporates all the muscles of the body, and when you wear a minidress, your legs have to look right but so does the rest of the body because there isn’t a lot of fabric to cover you. This move is especially good for the legs, glutes, core, shoulders and arms."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, hold medicine ball between your palms overhead.
2. Drop down into a squat until thighs are parallel to the floor while still holding ball overhead.
3. Contract your quads and come back up to standing position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
See short and sweet mini dresses here.
If you're wearing: a revealing dress
Work your: midsection
The workout: "The Medicine Ball Lunge and Twist is great for dresses that focus on the midsection because it targets the core (midsection) but also tones the glutes, which will complement your midsection. This move is especially good for the core, glutes, legs and arms."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, lunge forward with medicine ball in line with your body.
2. At end of lunge, reach up with the medicine ball and twist your core across your forward leg.
3. Return and repeat to the other side.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Explore your softer side with dresses featuring chiffon. For more, click here.
If you're wearing: a fitted dress
Work your: butt
The workout: "A fitted dress looks great over a toned butt; however, it looks even better over a toned body. For this reason, I recommend the Dumbbell Front Squat. This move is a total body blast, which targets the muscles of the legs, glutes, arms, shoulders, core and chest."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, hold one dumbbell between your hands at your chin.
2. Squat down, hips back, back straight and chest up until your elbows touch your knees.
3. Squeeze your legs and glutes; return to start position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Show off your figure in a gorgeous gown with a trumpet silhouette. For styles, click here.
If you're wearing: a tea-length dress
Work your: calves
The workout: "Jumping Lunges are great for many different dress lengths because they work the muscles of the legs, glutes, calves and core and, best of all, do not require any equipment! So for knee-length dresses, try these and you’ll be ready to show a little more than just the knee."
1. Begin in a lunge position—one leg forward, knee bent and in line above foot, the other leg back, foot forward, knee almost touching ground.
2. Explosively jump to the opposite-side lunge.
3. Jump back. Repeat.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Looking for the perfect tea-length dress? Click here.
For more fitness power moves from Marco Borges, visit marcoborges.com.
For tips on how to look 10 pounds thinner in your wedding photos, click here.
Courtesy of Penguin
Look your best in your dress with these key exercises from celebrity fitness expert Marco Borges
Wedding Fitness & Health:
Strapless? Halter? Mini? Now that you have the perfect dress, it's time to get the bridal body you want—the one that will make you look and feel stunning when you walk down the aisle.
World-class fitness instructor Marco Borges has all the right moves to help you achieve your goal. We asked Borges, author of Power Moves: The 4 Motions to Transform Your Body for Life and trainer to celebrities such as Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, Shakira and Jay-Z, to tell us the best exercises for brides preparing to wear certain dress styles. Read on for his power-packed tips.—Elayne Fluker
If you're wearing: a strapless or halter-top dress
Work your: shoulders
The workout: "The Resistance Band Shoulder Fly Lunge is the ideal move for a strapless-/halter-ready body. This exercise targets the muscles of the shoulders, glutes, legs and core while also toning the stubborn fat that likes to pop over the bra strap."
1. Begin with feet shoulder-width apart and resistance band securely under stationary foot. Hold bands at your side, palms in.
2. Lunge back with free foot (foot without the band) and quickly raise your arms using your shoulders.
3. Step forward. Lower arms.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Looking for a strapless dress? Click here.
If you're wearing: a sleeveless or cap-sleeve dress
Work your: arms
The Workout: "For this type of dress, I would recommend the Incline Curl and Press. This exercise works the biceps, triceps, chest and shoulders—giving you toned arms. This movement is simple and requires very little equipment."
1. Lie flat on an incline bench with your knees up, one dumbbell in each hand.
2. Curl dumbbells up to chest, then press up above your chest.
3. Bring the dumbbells back to your chest, then to starting position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
View our wedding dress galleries for sleeveless or cap-sleeve gowns.
If you're wearing: a backless dress
Work your: back
The workout: "For a dress that shows off the back, I like Resistance Band Rows. This move is especially good for the muscles of the back, arms and legs (isometrically) and is great at toning that stubborn fat that likes to pop up over the bra strap."
1. Begin with feet shoulder-width apart and the band securely fastened directly in front of you on anything that’s firmly in place (e.g., the knob of a closed door or a gym pole).
2. Bend at knees; lean forward slightly; keep your back straight.
3. Pull the band toward the bottom of your chest; return to starting position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to wedding date).
Still deciding on your dress? View thousands of styles here.
If you're wearing: a minidress
Work your: thighs
The workout: "For this type of dress, I like the Overhead Medicine Ball Squat. I chose this move because it is a compound move that incorporates all the muscles of the body, and when you wear a minidress, your legs have to look right but so does the rest of the body because there isn’t a lot of fabric to cover you. This move is especially good for the legs, glutes, core, shoulders and arms."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, hold medicine ball between your palms overhead.
2. Drop down into a squat until thighs are parallel to the floor while still holding ball overhead.
3. Contract your quads and come back up to standing position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
See short and sweet mini dresses here.
If you're wearing: a revealing dress
Work your: midsection
The workout: "The Medicine Ball Lunge and Twist is great for dresses that focus on the midsection because it targets the core (midsection) but also tones the glutes, which will complement your midsection. This move is especially good for the core, glutes, legs and arms."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, lunge forward with medicine ball in line with your body.
2. At end of lunge, reach up with the medicine ball and twist your core across your forward leg.
3. Return and repeat to the other side.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Explore your softer side with dresses featuring chiffon. For more, click here.
If you're wearing: a fitted dress
Work your: butt
The workout: "A fitted dress looks great over a toned butt; however, it looks even better over a toned body. For this reason, I recommend the Dumbbell Front Squat. This move is a total body blast, which targets the muscles of the legs, glutes, arms, shoulders, core and chest."
1. With feet shoulder-width apart, hold one dumbbell between your hands at your chin.
2. Squat down, hips back, back straight and chest up until your elbows touch your knees.
3. Squeeze your legs and glutes; return to start position.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Show off your figure in a gorgeous gown with a trumpet silhouette. For styles, click here.
If you're wearing: a tea-length dress
Work your: calves
The workout: "Jumping Lunges are great for many different dress lengths because they work the muscles of the legs, glutes, calves and core and, best of all, do not require any equipment! So for knee-length dresses, try these and you’ll be ready to show a little more than just the knee."
1. Begin in a lunge position—one leg forward, knee bent and in line above foot, the other leg back, foot forward, knee almost touching ground.
2. Explosively jump to the opposite-side lunge.
3. Jump back. Repeat.
4. Perform 15-20 repetitions for three sets (four as you get closer to the wedding date).
Looking for the perfect tea-length dress? Click here.
For more fitness power moves from Marco Borges, visit marcoborges.com.
For tips on how to look 10 pounds thinner in your wedding photos, click here.
Courtesy of Penguin
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