No wedding is complete without the officiant to help make your day official and special. However, you don't want to choose just someone out of a hat. You want to find an officiant who understands your relationship and will do everything to make your dream wedding ceremony fit your style. Someone who wants to let your relationship shine through during your ceremony. Diamond W Weddings wants to offer just that. Understanding that each couple is unique and want to make their ceremony represent them.

Reverend Catherine Black-Ward wants to create a unique ceremony just for you. First off, how do you envision your dream wedding? Do you want an indoor ceremony, outdoor location or will your furry friend be your ring bearer?

Whatever you have chosen, she will create a unique ceremony to show your relationship. In the end, your ceremony will truly be meaningful because it represents you and your husband. She will work with you in all things, including:

• Religious
• Secular
• Spiritual
• Themed
• Non-denominational

Rev. Catherine will travel for your wedding ceremony, can accommodate for your themed wedding, such as wearing a themed outfit and will always  make sure that you are getting everything you want in your ceremony. She'll even offer recommendations on a wedding location or help with your wedding planning to take stress off you. Always assisting you in making sure your wedding is everything you wanted.

Customization is the key with your wedding ceremony. Everyone has heard a traditional wedding ceremony, so why not find something that fits you and represents you and your husband as a couple. That is why, she will write your customize your wedding ceremony from start to finish. Only representing you as a couple.

Diamond W Weddings will make sure you say exactly what you want to say to each other. The ceremony is what joins two people together and unites them, therefore, it absolutely must be special. So, when in search for an officiant in the Laramie, Wyoming area; choose Diamond W Weddings. Wanting to get to know you as a couple, so your wedding ceremony will represent you.

When finding your location for your wedding or event, it has to have that "wow" factor. It should convey the theme of your event, while providing a great setting. When attending your event, the location is the guest's first impression. Therefore, it needs to be amazing! If you're in the Saint Louis, Missouri area, Windows On Washington is your event location that will provide just that. It will provide that "wow" factor for your guests. Beautiful windows and elegant detailing truly makes this location stand out from any other, along with breath-taking views.

Beautiful Views From Windows On Washington

A Breathtaking View

Windows On Washington provides an exquisite location for your wedding or major event. They offer two buildings, Windows On Washington and Windows Off Washington that each feature beautiful design elements. Windows On Washington features 25 feet windows, a grand lobby featuring a beautiful fountain, hard wood flooring, exposed brick walls, creatively styled bars and open-air verandas.

Windows Off Washington feature similar detailing along with beautiful white columns, polished concrete floors, 12 foot high ceilings, wall made of recycled soda cans, a bar made of an old steam pipe and beautiful verandas featuring a panoramic view of downtown Saint Louis, Missouri. Each building sounds so unique and absolutely breath-taking with the lovely views. This location is absolutely stunning, you'll truly fall in love.

You'll be able to feature your wedding ceremony, wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, private events or anything else you need in these beautiful buildings. You'll be able to choose from 6 rooms that are uniquely styled. That way, you'll find the one that better suits your style. Whether you like the traditional elements or the unusual; they offer it. You will be able to add beautiful wedding flowers to add a special element, however, the rooms alone are simply stunning. This space is the ideal wedding venue.

With You In Mind

Windows On Washington understands that not every bride or events are the same, therefore, they cater towards your wants and needs so you'll have your dream event. Not only do they offer this wonderful location, but they also do wedding catering, as well as provide wedding decor. They offer various packages that includes all these items that you will be able to choose from for your wedding day and event.

You'll be able to choose a package that's ideal for rehearsal dinners, receptions for various sizes, corporate meetings, cocktail events, proms and even off-site catering. Some include various appetizers, carving stations, desserts, open bars, decor items, chocolate mint departure, signature champagne and tableside service. You'll be able to pick which package better suits your style, taste and your wedding.

Imagine a beautiful space that is decorated exactly how you want it with delicious food, stunning wedding decorations and tasty wedding cake. Those two items being brought together will truly make up a wonderful wedding or event. Everything will be picture perfect as well as tasting simply amazing.

Especially when your event location is Windows On Washington. Where else are you going to find wedding decorator, wedding caterer and a ceremony location all-in-one? Their breath-taking views will take you well into the night with laughs, drinks and fabulous friends.

Is it proper wedding etiquette to ask that children not attend a wedding?   Yes, it is your wedding so it is your decision.  However, expect backlash if you've decided not to include children at your wedding.  What isn't proper etiquette is to have it printed or even hand written on the invitations NO Children.

To easy any backlash, you can explain to your closer relatives and friends that you're not able to accommodate all the children.

In large families, you could be looking at another dozen or more guests and that can be costly if you're having a dinner reception after the ceremony.

You will be hit with all types of pleas to allow children.  Stand your ground and be firm, but nice.

A good way to head off any problems would be to get your wedding party in on spreading the verbal word that this is an adult only wedding and reception.

Write or visit friends and relatives who have kids and explain to them why you've made a choice to not have children.

Be forward and blunt with any guest who tells you they will be brings their kids.  Tell them, "I am sorry, but we aren't able to accommodate any children".

They may retort back with, "We won't be attending your wedding".  At that point tell them your sorry they made that decision and they will be missed.

One thing you might consider is by setting age limits, such as no children under 10.  If you're afraid that cousin Jen's little boy will cause a ruckus just as you're sharing your vows during your wedding ceremony, hire a child-care and set aside a room for the kids.  This way you can enjoy a beautiful wedding sans the wails of a fussy child, but they can still come to the wedding reception.

Remember it is your wedding and your choice to make on who is invited.  Stand firm and make no exceptions. By standing firm, you may very well hurt guests feelings so much that they may not attend the wedding.  As you make your decision to say no children and have an adults only wedding, be sure that you can accept that your favorite friend or relative won't attend. Create a wedding that is truly special to you and fits your needs.

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Choosing the right location can be the biggest obstacle in planning an event and especially the most important one. The location has to be the perfect canvas for all the special details. So when choosing your event location, you look for the underlying beauty, whether it's suitable for your personality and what it has to offer. Well Paris Caterers and Dance Party DJs offer all of that and even more than you could possibly imagine. Let your imagination become a reality.

Paris Caterers and Dance Party Djs provides the perfect location setting for any special event and all the special added details. An extravagant y-shaped staircase, dramatic suites with gorgeous fireplaces and breathtaking chandeliers and a stunning picturesque garden pavilion will be an added touch to your special day. Why stop there? They provide an event coordinator, scrumptious food, amazing cakes, and even entertaining music that will leave you dancing all night long. You'll be stress-free and completely amazed by everything they offer.

It's All in the Details!

Their amazing event venue will provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding day, birthday parties, bridal showers and any special event. It can accommodate to as few or as many guests in your party by offering a variety of beautiful rooms to pick from. Choose from the Beau Palais, which offers a gorgeous staircase and marble fireplaces; or the Garden Room, which is surrounded by lush landscapes. Pick from the intimate Paris Room and lastly the stunning open-dome gazebo.

Whatever you pick, it's sure to provide the perfect backdrop for your special day. Now that you have the perfect location, let them help you by offering an event coordinator and taking you down the vendors walk, which is an amazing feature offered right on the grounds. This very accommodating walk offers party rentals from 10 highly recommended vendors to make your day as simple as possible. Paris Caterers and Dance Party Djs always has you in mind.

Assortment of Gourmet Food

Have Your Cake and Eat it too…and then some!

Not only do they provide a stunning location, they also are an amazing event caterer! Imagine your meal being prepared by highly-skilled chefs cooking the freshest foods and topping it off with savory dishes you can't even begin to imagine. Always having you in mind, they offer a variety of menus including beef, chicken and seafood cuisines, a wide assortment of buffet options, a cocktail hour menu, amazing desserts and bar options.

Paris Caterers offers unique, exquisite cuisine that will absolutely amaze you. Also, let their on-site pastry chef create a stunning wedding cake or event cake that will be decadent and elegant all-in-one! Don't forget about the special, unique details including ice cream bars, candy bars and a chocolate fountain! Absolutely amazing is all you'll have to say.

Dance the Night Away

Providing great entertainment for Blackwood, New Jersey with Dance Party Djs. Guests will be having the time of their lives, while dancing the night away. They offer great entertainment for any special event by providing state-of-the-art equipment, experienced djs and providing a fun experience you'll remember a lifetime. Not only offering a variety of music, they also provide fun party rentals, including photbooths, props, singers, bands, lighting, music video presentation, karaoke and a variety of other services! Let them provide fun entertainment for the whole night!

Beautiful location, amazing food and cake, all while dancing the night away with amazing entertainment is exactly what Paris Caterers and Dance Party Djs offers for your special day. Your event will simply be amazing and that's all you'll have to say!

As girls through out our lives, we've heard that our wedding day is our special day. However make no mistake, your special day does not give you license to be a bridezilla.

Have you ever experienced an out of control bride? Remember how her actions made you feel? You certainly do not want to be the bride that makes everyone loath you.

Prepare Yourself: React Don't Overact

As you go through the steps to prepare for and orchestrate your wedding, you'll become frustrated and overwhelmed. To combat those feelings, take a few breaths and think about what your going to say before you say it. This will save you from a multitude of fights, angry feelings and continued frustrations. This should be a joyous time to spend with friends and family, not one that destroys friendships and alienates family members.

Handling Conflicts & Problems

There will be issues and problems with suppliers during the wedding planning process. For example, you may have a conflict with your caterer. The proper way to handle this a conflict is to be direct and calmly tell them what you want, expect or how to fix the problem. What is improper and very bridezillaish is to call them names, raise your voice or curse at them. Whether a caterer, a florist, a photographer or other service or shop owner, they deserve respect and will usually go above and beyond if given this respect.

Of course you have the right to get what you ask for and agreed to when you are planning your wedding. If in the case of a supplier they can't provide what your asking for, you can choose to work with them or to go else where. You do not have the right to belittle, humiliate or assert unreasonable demands. Although it is your special day, sometimes you may not get everything you want. Compromising it very important when planning a wedding.

Don't Sweat The Small Stuff – Compromising Is The Key

When issues arise with friends and family members, pick your battles. Let the little things go and concentrate on the thing that are really important. Choosing to focus on the few things most important to you will help keep the bridezilla at bay.

Every bride is different and you are the only one who knows what is most important to you. Here are a few suggestions to help you determine those important wedding component worth fighting for: the wedding gown, the location, the first dance.

Once you have a true idea of what is important to you, everything else will fall into the category – so long as it is nice, it will be a great wedding.

The Key To The Perfect Wedding

Adapt the attitude “It's my wedding and everything will be perfect because I am marrying the love of my life.” After all, that is the most important thing right? Not the dress. Not the food. Only one thing really matters that at your vowing to be with your love.

Their are two popular pieces that brides have used to walk down the aisle to, the Wedding March and the Bridal Chorus.

In 1842 Felix Mendelssohn wrote the Wedding March.  He was commissioned by Frederick William IV Prussia to write orchestrated pieces for the play A Mid-summers Night's Dream, written by William Shakespeare.

The Wedding March was made popular when Victoria, The Royal Princess, wed Prince Frederick William of Prussia. For more than 150 years the Wedding March has been used in western weddings.

The Bridal Chorus just like the Bridal March was written for a play.  Robert Wagner, a German composer, wrote the music to accompany his play entitled, Lohengrin. The Bridal Chorus was written in 1850 and is commonly know as Here Comes the Bride.

Brides may choose to incorporate both pieces into their wedding using the Bridal Chorus as the bride walk down the aisle, and Wedding March as the recessional tune as she and her new husband walk down the aisle as husband and wife.

Both pieces are lovely and work well with both tradtional and non-traditional weddings.

Moms have always played a role in their daughter's wedding day.  The groom's mother also has a role in some wedding traditions.  The mother-son dance is probably the best known wedding tradition.

In Korea the groom gives his mother-in-law-to-be a goose.  Traditionally this was a live goose. However, it has become a Western wedding tradition, and the groom gives the bride's mother a wooden goose. Geese mate for life, so the giving of a goose symbolizes to the bride's mother the groom will take care of the bride for life.

The Amish mother of the bride sews the bride's wedding dress. This tradition has evolved into the mother helping to select or even paying for the bridal dress.  In Mexico one old tradition is that the mother and the bride pray before going to the church.

During a Hindu wedding the mother of the bride helps the bride onto a stone slab and speaks to her on how to prepare for a new life, this is called Shila Arohan. In Greece mothers will collect linens, tableware, and other household items as their daughter grows-up.  These items will go to her daughter to furnish her household.  This tradition was taken from the days when the bride's family had to pay a dowry.

Moms' roles in weddings as history shows,  is one of support, wisdom and love.

This post is sponsored by Loranger, Louisiana invitations and stationery.

Wedding vows are the one thing every wedding has in common.  No matter the location, every couple uses words to express their commitment to one another.  Some couples chose to go with traditional religious vows, while other couples may choose traditional religious vows, adding in a few words of their own.

Non-religious couples may use the basic civil commitment vows, or write their own.  When couples decide which vows they wish to speak on their wedding day, they are embracing their culture, their upbringing and their take on marriage.

Today's couples are varied, with many choosing to write their own; however, many more choose the standard well-known vows. Whatever their choice, a couple's chosen vows are words that will live on throughout their marriage and serve as a reminder of their love and commitment to each other.

Traditional wedding vow:

I, ___, take you ___, to be my wedded (husband/wife), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'til death do us part.

Contemporary wedding vow:

I, ______, take you, ______, to be my partner, loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know. I eagerly anticipate the chance to grow together, getting to know the man/woman you will become, and falling in love a little more every day. I promise to love and cherish you through whatever life may bring us.

Of all the decisions a wedding brings, the vows are among the most important choices a bride and groom face.  Choose wisely.  Follow tradition  or write your own, but remember at the end of the ceremony your commitment of your love is the most important of all.

This wedding vow post is sponsored by Wedding and Party Network's Formal Wear Providers.

Photo courtesy of Carol Hutchings Photography

One of my pet peeves about wedding ceremonies is that bridesmaids and groomsmen are frequently asked to walk down the aisle together, never having met and barely knowing each other's names, if at all.

Been there, done that? Well, so have I, and it's very uncomfortable. I think it borders on rude to ask your attendants to walk with someone they've never had any interaction with, as well as stand for hours taking photos together.

If you were having a party at your home and you invited friends who had never met, you would make it a priority to introduce them to one another at the party, right? Well, why should a wedding be any different?

A wedding is an event of a lifetime, and I believe special attention should be paid to making sure all the participants know each other. That's why I think it's a good idea to have a few opportunities prior to the wedding to make introductions and let the attendants get to know one another.

For instance, when planning tuxedo fittings, bridesmaid dress selections, choosing a caterer, exploring a venue or deciding on a wedding cake, why not make it an event and invite all the attendants and their spouses?

This would 1) help all the attendants feel part of the planning and decision-making process, and 2) begin the process of your attendants getting familiar with one another.

By the time the wedding rolls around, they know each other's names, spouses' names, and have some "history."

After the event, plan a casual lunch out at a favorite sandwich shop for further interaction. Making the time and effort to think about those in your wedding party will make for a more meaningful wedding experience for all your attendants.

Wedding Traditions Influenced By The Mayans

Many wedding traditions, that take place today, come from people of civilizations that no longer exist.  The Mayans are one example of those civilizations. Many Mayan wedding traditions can be found in the wedding ceremonies of today.

Mayans And The Wedding Unity Candle

The use of a unity candle today for instance may stem from the Mayan culture.  The Mayans, as a means to incorporate the spiritual world into their wedding ceremonies, used a candle to unite the feminine (Mother Earth)  and masculine (Cosmic Energy). Candles were used in other ways as well. For instance, four candles would be placed on an alter during the wedding ceremony. These candles were placed on each corner of the altar representing  north,  south,  east, and west which had a very symbolic meaning for the Mayan people.

Mayans And Wedding Flowers

For the Mayans, flowers are symbolic of their gods. The North God is represented by red flowers, the East with yellow flowers, the South with purple flowers, and West with white flowers.  Today's weddings are full of flowers and we still choose the colors based up ancient symbolism.  Red flowers symbolize love. Yellow equals new beginnings. While purple means success and white represent purity.

Mayans And Chocolate Fountains

We can probably thank the Mayans for the use of chocolate fountains at wedding receptions.  As far back as 2600 years ago, Mayans had chocolate for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  We can surmise that if they had it that often it probably was served ass a wedding tea. If the Mayans were the ones who gave birth to the chocolate fountain wedding reception custom, then kudos to them. It is yummy tradition.

As we plan a wedding, we may not always know why custom dictates the use of roses or a chocolate fountain or even a white wedding dress. But, we do know that previous cultures found valued and symbolism in these things.  Incorporating the traditions of our ancestors makes the wedding ceremony more meaningful.