Understanding the marriage laws in your state will save you time, effort, and money in the long run. There are many laws that could throw a wrench in the wedding plans of which many brides are unaware. Need examples?

• Planning a destination wedding? Make sure that the state that is hosting your wedding ceremony will recognize the union. For instance, you must be a resident of Indiana to be legally married there.
• Hate needles? Let’s hope that your wedding ceremony location is in a state that does not require a blood test.
• Taking a honeymoon trip right after the wedding? Make sure that you’re back in 10 days to file your marriage license if you were married in Oklahoma.

These and many other laws exist to protect the couples and make their union as special as possible. To understand the applicable wedding laws in your state, simply browse the table below!

Wedding traditions are charming ways we hold on to our heritage and ethnicity. When we are able to incorporate even minute details of our heritage it makes our wedding day that much more special. But what if you don’t have a direct relationship to a particular heritage or ethnicity?  Can you follow their traditions?  Remember imitation is the best form of flattery.  So why not incorporate the traditions of an ethnicity or  culture that you admire.  For me some of the wedding traditions that began with the Italian culture are the most special.

In fact, Italian wedding traditions are easily incorporated into any wedding celebration. If you’re a bride who Read the rest of Infusing Italian Wedding Traditions Into Your Special Day »

Sometimes creating a wedding registry can seem like a daunting task but it really doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be one of the most enjoyable activities that you have when planning a wedding. Selecting the items that will help the bride- and groom-to-be create a happy home should be a fun and exciting event enjoyed as a couple. It is often the first activity that the newly betrothed couple makes as a couple and is a great time to spend some extra time with the person that you love. To make sure that the items that you want are on your wedding registry, here are a few (15) things to know when creating your registry. Read the rest of How To Create The Perfect Wedding Registry »

“Something old. Something new.
Something borrowed. Something blue.“

Let’s focus on the first part of the old adage for a moment. In the age of contemporary weddings and modern brides, sometimes incorporating something “old” just doesn’t seem to work. However, there are many great ways to bring luck and happiness to your union by fulfilling the “something old” tradition.

Many women look to mothers, aunts, grandmothers, and older family members when searching for something old. Many times these women have vintage jewelry, antique handkerchiefs and other family heirlooms. These are very appropriate and can be incorporated into a modern ceremony with ease. For instance, Read the rest of Wedding Tips: Something Old »

Many people still remember the popular tradition of having the bride’s family pay for the wedding. Modern brides and couples, however, often pay for much of the wedding ceremony and reception. With such a shift in roles, it can often be confusing to know who is “supposed” to pay for many of the items in your wedding budget. Another great wedding checklist, this quick breakdown of today’s accepted practices will help clear up any confusion. Read the rest of Wedding Expense Breakdown Checklist—Who Pays? »

Whether hiring a disc jockey for your wedding reception or listing special requests for the wedding singer, personalizing this list of wedding reception music will keep you partying through the night to all of your favorite songs!

Once again, the party and wedding planning experts at Wedding and Party Network have “polled the audience” to find excellent, clever tips for men who would like to secretly learn their sweetheart’s engagement ring size. To avoid a faux pas and make this a night to remember, take the experienced advice of these individuals. Don’t forget, these also work when shopping for wedding rings!

Marriage Proposal Tip For Dummies Read the rest of Cute Ways To Learn Her Engagement Ring Size »

Laws pertaining to changing your name after marriage vary from state to state. Generally, the new bride who wants to keep her name does nothing. The new bride who wants to take her husband’s name must make the appropriate changes within a certain amount of time. Contacting your local courthouse is an excellent way to begin the process and determine what is required within your state of residence. These great checklists will help you to remember much important information Read the rest of How To Change Your Name »

There are so many options when it comes to planning your perfect wedding in Philadelphia. Your wedding –and every detail of it—should reflect the two of you and your personalities, styles and preferences.

When deciding on your wedding ceremony site, keep in mind the overall feel you want your wedding to have. The lavish Talamore Country Club, the award-winning formal gardens of The Radnor Hotel, the natural elegance of The French Manor or the outdoor simplicity of The Wedding Chapel are all great venues, Read the rest of Tips for the Perfect Philadelphia Wedding »

Ask The Expert:

Jackie in Bushnell, Florida asks:

• Not sure what the difference is between a coordinator and a planner is?
• Is the fee for the coordinator/planner included in the budget?
• What is the going rate for that?

Wedding and Party Network:

The difference between a wedding coordinator and wedding planner/consultant is more involved than you might think. Typically a consultant/planner is involved in Read the rest of What’s The Difference Between A Wedding Coordinator And Planner? »