theweddinglink.net announced today the launch of it’s first community driven local wedding reviews and planning website for Phoenix Arizona.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) – Feb 10, 2012 -
The Phoenix Wedding Link is designed to give newly engaged couples, bridal parties, and their family a trusted resource for identifying wedding vendors and events in the Phoenix Valley Area.

Highlights of the website’s feature set include the ability to search by location, reviews, rating, compare pricing options, retrieve detailed information on each vendor and easily contact them, or save them to a profile for later use.

“The vast majority of couples would prefer to plan their wedding online. We are working to give time-strapped brides and grooms the freedom to plan every detail of their wedding at their convenience,  from the comfort of their own home, ” says Stephen Romero,  Marketing Director and Founder of theweddinglink.net.

Business and bridal fair organizers are welcome to increase awareness and exposure of their service or event through a free listing on the website.

The Phoenix Wedding Link marks the first of many cities that The Weddinng Link will be launching in this year. A nationwide roll-out of the service is planed for all major cities in the next 6 months.

# # #
theweddinglink.net is a service designed to give newly engaged couples, bridal parties, and their family a trusted resource for identifying wedding vendors and events in their city.”When all is said and done, how well your wedding day comes together is going to depend on the experience and skill of the wedding vendors you choose. Through our website, we hope to help you find the perfect wedding dress, tuxedo, caterer, wedding photographer, florist, reception facility and wedding venue.” — The Wedding Link Team
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Image Credit:  MPClemens

The Prelude: The prelude begins when your guests begin to arrive until the Mother of the Bride is seated. Music for this phase is often soft, gentle, and generally sets a tone of anticipation for your walk down the aisle.

The Processional: Also known as “the bride walking down the aisle songs”. However, there’s a little more to it than that. The processional music starts once all of your guests are seated. Your bridal party will enter first. The procession concludes with the bride’s entrance. While you  could walk down the aisle to the same music as the bridal party, it adds to the drama of the moment when a separate song is played to highlight your entrance.

Interludes: These are transitional moments in the ceremony to special elements, like unity candles, ring exchanges or breaking the wedding glass.

The Recessional: This your grand exit as a newly married couple! Choose an upbeat song to celebrate the moment, and to help remind your feet what to do next. Make sure the music starts promptly, a delay here can leave the new couple turning to face their guests in a moment full of emotional highs, looking like deer stuck in the headlights. Just remember to put one foot in front of the other, and move. You’ll do just fine.

The ceremony can sometimes be more difficult to personalize than your reception. Religious ceremony’s tend be less flexible in music choices, order of events, and so on. If your ceremony is taking place at a church, synagogue, or other religious site be sure to check with your officiant to find out what kind of parameters they may have first. But don’t feel stuck into picking from the list of songs the church gives you, use it to guide you and be sure to suggest your own personal favorites.

Lets start with a very traditional “Movie Perfect” example of a music selection, from there you can mix, match, sort and blend to create the perfect playlist for your wedding. Above all, pick the music that moves you!

Traditional Example:

Prelude-    Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring by Bach
Processional-     Canon in D by Pachelbel
Bridal Entrance-    Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride) by Wagner
Interlude-     Arioso
Recessional-     Wedding March from Midsummer’s Night Dream by Mendelssohn

The Most Popular Wedding Processional Songs:

Canon in D
Wedding March
Trumpet Voluntary
Ode To Joy
Ave Maria
Only Time
From This Moment On
Heaven
What A Wonderful World

Wedding Processional Songs Non-Traditional / Contemporary:

Somewhere Over The Rainbow – IZ (Bride)
I’m Yours – Jason Mraz (Bridal Party / Groom Processional Songs)
All You Need is Love – The Beatles (Recessional)
When you say nothing at all-  Alison Krauss (Bride)
Bittersweet Symphony (instrumental version) – Verve (Bride / Bridal Party)
Beautiful Day – U2 (Recessional)
Book of Love – Peter Gabriel (Bride)
Bright side of the Road – Van Morrison (Recessional)
Signed, sealed, delivered – Stevie Wonder (Recessional)
Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton (Bridal Party)
Wouldn’t It Be Nice – Beach Boys (Recessional)

Christian Wedding Processional Music:

Ave Maria – Andrea Bocelli
Amazing Grace – Traditional
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach
Household of Faith – Brent Lamb & John Rosasco
All People That On Earth Do Dwell – Old 100th hymn
Dona Nobis Pacem – 16th century hymn
Hymne – Vangelis
Angels Watching – The O’Neill Brothers
Butterfly Waltz – Brian Crain
Be Thou My Vision – Dallan Forgaill
The Prayer – David Foster & Carol Bayer Sager

We’d love to hear your suggestions on this, please share the songs you chose for your wedding in the comments below!

You may be capable of planning your wedding in three months or may need as long as two years – it all depends on your personal desires and flexibility.

If you have set your heart on getting married at a certain venue, or on a specific day, you will need to start your wedding planning early. The more detail you desire for your wedding, the greater the time you will need to work out those details. It also depends on the amount of help you have, and if you can handle doing a lot of last minute planning or not.

A comfortable timeline that many engaged couples allow themselves is around one year to plan their wedding.

Here is a wedding planning timeline to give you an idea of the what needs to be done, and when to do it to remain on track:

12 Months before the Wedding

• Set your wedding date.
• Decide on your personal budget.
• If marrying in a church, contact your local minister to discuss your plans. If you are intending upon marrying in a registry office, provide the registrar with notice of your intentions.
• Compile a list of guests to invite to both the daytime and evening celebrations. Ask a friend or relative to check this list to ensure that you have not missed anyone off.
• If you are marrying in a separate venue to that in which you will be housing the wedding reception, choose and book the wedding reception.
• Consider entertainment at your wedding reception and book your chosen entertainers.
• Book the caterers for your wedding breakfast and evening meal/buffet.
• Book your chosen photographer and/or videographer.
• Book your stay in a hotel near the wedding venue if you will be unable to travel from your home to the ceremony venue on the morning of your wedding.
• Book your overnight stay in a bridal suit for the night of your wedding.
• Choose and book wedding transport, if required.
• Choose and book your florist.
• Book a toastmaster, if your wedding ceremony will not automatically provide you with one.
• Organize your honeymoon and ensure that your passports are up to date.
• Order a wedding cake.
• Begin your search for a wedding outfit.
• Decide on bridesmaids, ushers and a best man and consider searching for their outfits.
• Confirm all of your wedding bookings in writing.

6 Months before the Wedding

• Attend an initial outfit fitting and choose all the associated accessories, such as shoes and jewelry.
• Decide on the wedding attire for the whole wedding party.
• Choose and purchase the wedding rings.
• Order the wedding favors.
• Order your wedding invites or begin to make your own.
• Arrange a consultation with your hairdresser to decide on your own wedding hairstyle and those of your bridesmaids. Book a time and date for your hair and that of your bridesmaids to be styled on your wedding day.
• Book a make-up artist/beautician for the day of your wedding, if required.

3 Months before the Wedding

• Purchase a marriage license from your registrar.
• Send out your invitations and provide details of overnight accommodation near to your venue, if required.
• Create a wedding gift list and offer it to your guests.
• Confirm the details of your ceremony with the registrar or minister.
• Choose your wedding music.
• Decide on an Order of Service and arrange for this to be printed out.
• Purchase gifts for your wedding party.
• Decide on a seating plan and discuss this with your wedding reception organizer.
• Arrange to have any vaccinations that may be required for your honeymoon.

1 Month before the Wedding

• Arrange for a final outfit fitting.
• Reconfirm your arrangements with the reception venue, caterer, florist, photographer and videographer, wedding transport provider, entertainer, and honeymoon travel agent.
• Arrange your wedding rehearsal date.
• Organize a date on which to collect your wedding outfits.
• Write any speeches.

1 Week before the Wedding

• Enjoy your wedding rehearsal.
• Collect your wedding outfits.
• Pack clothes for your honeymoon.
• Hand your Order of Service to the minister.
• Order any foreign currency required for your honeymoon.
• Ensure that the best man is aware of the wedding plans and hand over the rings for safekeeping.

Image Credit: “Rosey Feet” by  amichan83

These conditions mean that there are many places to take pictures in Phoenix if you want to adorn the cover of a wedding invitation or take some memorable portraits on the day of your nuptials. The following list is not exhaustive. You could find many lovely locales on your own just by walking around. This is best done in the spring, when temperatures are perfect and the Suns shines almost every day.

Six Spots for Phoenix AZ Photos:

1.    The Tempe Town Lake

In the 1990’s, Tempe took advantage of that fact that water rarely runs down the Salt River thanks to the dam upstream. They partitioned off a section of the riverbed and created their own lake as one more adornment to this lovely college city. You can either take photos from the lakeside or take a boat out on the perpetually calm waters.

2.    The Superstition Mountains

You will need to drive out east of the Valley to reach these mountains. They can be seen, however, from just about any place in Phoenix or its environs. This range is a perfect location for hikes. You can turn the search for a perfect photo into an enjoyable hike. Try it in early spring, when the wildflowers will be in bloom.

3.    Papago Park

You do not have to drive all the way up to Sedona to see red rocks and scenic buttes. You can get both in your wedding photos when you take them at this park located north of Van Buren, off Galvin Parkway. This is another outdoor shot that will be lovely anytime of the year, especially in spring.

4.    The Desert Botanical Garden

This garden is not far from Papago Park. The desert vegetation on display is undeniably beautiful. Check out all their exhibits before making up your mind. If you time your arrival right, you might be able to take advantage of some of the cultural phenomena that are celebrated there, such as the Day of the Dead in early November.

5.    Arizona State University

If you are more interested in architecture, the university in Tempe might be the place for you. The Gammage Auditorium would make a nice backdrop for any photo, day or night. If that is not modern enough for you, take a look at the Coor building on campus.

6.    Downtown Phoenix

If all else fails, head downtown. You have your choice of a number of museums, stadiums and towering buildings. The regions surrounding the government buildings and the large Catholic basilica are exceptionally clean and attractive for a downtown area.

Image Credit: “Downtown Phoenix” by Michael Ruiz

Black dresses at weddings, though, can be classy and command the right kind of attention, if done tastefully. There are certain rules that will make a black dress go over well for this special occasion.

1. Add a splash of color to your black dress. It keeps the outfit festive and moves the mood you set away from funeral attire. Now, if you find yourself a little envious, wishing it were you strolling down the aisle to an altar with all eyes bulging at the fancy dress you are sporting, then go ahead, give in to temptation and dress like this is a funeral. Seriously, if you have any respect for the two people getting married, it is best to find a bright scarf, polished stone necklaces, earrings and bracelets or a smashing belt and pumps to set off the little black dress.

Don’t be afraid to add a colorful hat to match some other colorful accessory that you choose, too. It is a tradition in among sophisticated women to enter a church or other ceremonial place in precious head gear. Do not choose anything too attention-grabbing, but make sure that everyone who sees you will remember what you wear.

2. Do not cover everything up. Choose a dress that is drop-shouldered (on one side or both sides), has a split on the side or gathers at the shoulder and elbow to tease onlookers with your upper arms. By giving a little peek of skin, you want to be sexy, but not too sleazy.

3. Choose a dress with texture. Sequins, pearls, lace trims and textured fabric give a little black dress a lot of personality. Just make sure it is suited for your body shape and that your choice of accessories does not clash with the fabric of your black dress.

Attitudes toward the black dress at weddings has evolved. It has had enough appearances now to be considered elegant, chic and fashionable. Do not spend a lot of time deciding whether to wear a black dress. Spend that time instead choosing accessories that will look good on you when you toast the bride and groom.

Image Credit: Sleeveless Velvet Fur Trim Sheath Dress (Black) by AgathaGarcia via Flickr. The dress is available for purchase here.

How To Make A Wedding Card Box

Wedding card boxes are often made using the same concept as the Valentines Day boxes made by school children for the passing out of cards each February. A few embellishments added to a something as simple as a shoe or photo box often does the trick, although ready-made decorative boxes can also be purchased for a reasonable price at many home stores. How elaborate or simple the design is up to you, but for a truly personalized touch, here are some simple ideas to turn a plain box into a beautiful wedding card box:

• Photo boxes are the perfect size for holding cards, and they can be purchased in a variety of colors from nearly every department store. A simple white box may be the easiest to work with for a wedding, however, as the combination of simple white with colorful embellishments creates an elegant look suitable for any type of wedding. Simply gluing artificial flowers to the front box panel is often enough to turn a plain box into a decorative one, and the addition of a decorative placard stating Cards can let guests know to drop their cards inside. Stamps can also be inked onto the front and sides of the box to add a more decorative touch, and a variety of wedding-related stamps are available at most craft stores.
• Fabric-covered boxes make truly elegant wedding card boxes, and creativity can really come into play by stacking large and small boxes covered in alternating colors of fabric. Another creative idea for stacking boxes is alternate the fabric colors between the boxes and the lids. Slitting the top box can create the perfect way for cards to be dropped in, and a ribbon can be added to tie the stack together, which also enables a large bow to the tied at the top. The use of alternating fabrics is a great way to make card boxes a part of the wedding decorations, and gluing fabric to boxes is an easy do-it-yourself project.
• Hatboxes make some of the most amazing wedding card boxes, as these round boxes can be designed to resemble the wedding cake, or the display can be set off with a wide ribbon around the circumference with bows placed on each level. Stacking a small box on top of a large one can also create a shelf to add flowers, which looks amazing when white boxes are used in combination with flowers that match the wedding bouquet. A simple slit in the top is all that is necessary to make it easy for cards to be dropped in. Hatboxes can be found at many craft stores, or they can be purchased inexpensively online.
• A wire birdcage can make a unique wedding card box, as the spaces between the wires are perfect for sliding cards inside. Lacing white ribbon through the wires can add beautiful sophistication to the cage, and the ribbon can be tied into a bow at the top to make turn the birdcage into a wedding decoration centerpiece. Garland can also be strung through the wires of the cage to match the season of the wedding, with strings of flowers working well in spring and summer, and fall leaves adding a wonderful touch for autumn. Simple green garland embellished with a dusting of spray-on snow is a simple way to make a birdcage card box stunning for winter weddings.

Wedding card boxes are a functional and attractive addition to the wedding decorations, and designing your own is a great way to add a personalized touch to make them really stand out. How to make a wedding card box is easy, as simple boxes can become elaborate displays with the addition of a few simple embellishments. The use of a birdcage is perhaps one of the most unique card box creations, as they are ideal for holding cards and can work with virtually any wedding theme. Wedding card boxes can be as simple or elaborate as you choose, and the easy-to-do project is inexpensive enough not break the wedding plan budget.

Photo by: Du Žiedeliai { Vestuvinė floristika }

Your parents probably hope that you choose something traditional like “At Last” by Etta James. However, you want to put your personal stamp on the wedding with a song choice that says more about you and your partner than it does your parents or anyone else.

To help you choose the tune that will best suit you, here are some ideas for unique wedding songs for your first dance.

Oldies and Classics

These songs are by well-known artists, but they are not typically played for a wedding’s first dance. If you want to choose something unique, but you do not want to rock the boat too much, one of these songs could be the ideal choice.

God Only Knows by The Beach Boys
All of My Love by Led Zeppelin
As by Stevie Wonder
Shelter from the Storm by Bob Dylan
If Not for You by George Harrison

Alternative and Hip

These tunes might be used frequently as first dance songs in the future, but they are not as well-known in the contemporary wedding world. Choose one of these if you want to make a stylish, yet classy mark with your first dance song.

Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova
Love Song by The Cure
Fade Into You by Mazzy Star
Yellow by Coldplay
La La Love You by The Pixies

Songs for Rocking Out

Perhaps you do not want to use a slow song for your first dance. Maybe you want to use a song that is a little more upbeat and energetic. These songs may shock your tradition-minded guests, but they will certainly be memorable.

I’m the Man Who Loves You by Wilco
I’m a Believer by The Monkees
Burning Love by Elvis Presley
Nothing Else Matters by Metallica
Let Love Rule by Lenny Kravitz

On the Lighter Side

If you have a subversive streak and want to show that you have a sense of humor even on your wedding day, you can choose one of these silly, but sweet songs.

I Wanna Grow Old with You by Adam Sandler
You’ve Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman
You’re the One That I Want by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
A Bushel and a Peck by Doris Day
Mario Kart Love Song by Sam Hart

There are many more unconventional and unique wedding songs for your first dance from which to choose. The key to choosing the best song in this situation is to have fun with it and be true to yourself and your tastes. Even though Grandma and Grandpa might scoff at your choice, it should be memorable and fun for you and your partner.

Photo by: kennymatic

Invitations and save the dates are a waste of paper, postage, money and envelopes. For those who don’t mind leading with their technical foot forward, making electronic invitations is easy to do. Instead of sending out invitations, send emails to your family and friends. Blast a save the day to everyone that you are inviting, and later an invitation email to follow. Ask that guests also respond via email. Creating a website can also help you do this. If you’re determined to have invitations, try using 100 percent recycled paper, and also ask guests to call back their RSVP. This saves on paper.

Next throughout planning is the dress that you are going to wear.  For a bridal gown, check vintage and used clothing stores, or even try shopping on the Internet. This can save you a lot of money, and you are reusing a product for the good of the planet. There are a variety of cotton dresses available, or dresses made of other organic materials as well. Asking the girls to wear dresses they already have is a great option if you have only a few girls, just request that they are all the same color. This prevents multiple more dresses from being made just for one day.

Instead of wasting money and time packaging a lot of small items for each person at the wedding, donate a specific amount of money for each person who attends to your favorite planet assisting organization. Print a small message out on recycled paper and put this at each person’s table. People often dump these items anyways, and this can save you a lot of time and effort. Having an online registry for the guests is also ideal, so dozens of sheets of paper aren’t being printed at a time in the stores. Choose an online site that will ship the gifts directly to your home, or that you can pick up on location. If this isn’t possible ask guests not to wrap gifts in the invitation to conserve paper.

Flowers can also be a high cost, and come from different areas all around. Using local flowers that are in season at the time you get married can help local farmers or gardeners, save you money and prevent flowers from being pulled from other places around the earth. Instead or wrapping with tons of ribbon and such, use some organic hemp twine.  Choose foods that are grown by local organic farmers at your wedding, and find an organic cake baker as well.

The wedding of your dreams can be big, beautiful and fun without destroying the environment. Having a green wedding has so many advantages. Using these tips is going to help you save a lot of money, help preserve the precious planet, and have a great wedding at the same time.