Wedding Blogs by Wedding Professionals
July 31, 2006
The Wedding Show: August 6th, 2006
We would love to meet you at The Wedding Show on August 6th, 2006 from 11 to 4 p.m. at the America Center
If you are just beginning your search for stationery or you have been researching for a while, we think this is a wonderful time to meet us up close and personal at the show.
Judy Lilley
Posted by on July 31, 2006 at 11:26 AM
July 27, 2006
It's official! More single women are becoming homeowners
Hi Ladies,
I just came across an article online that says in 2005, 21% of home buyers were single women--that's up 16% since 1993! While you may not think much about it, back in the 1950's and 1960's women had a hard time getting a mortgage. Even if they were financially well off, there was always a concern on the part of the lender that the woman could get pregnant and not be able to work. Fortunately, things have changed. With the creation of new loan programs such as adjustable rates, 100% financing and the increase in do-it-yourself home shows, women are gaining confidence in their ability to own a home on their own. I have a friend right now who is pre-qualified and searching for her first home. She's a little nervous, but excited at the same time. Although you're on your way to becoming part of a married couple, if you are in a financial position to purchase a home now as a single woman, I recommend you do so. Your husband can always be added onto the title later and when you have a place of your own to go home to after the honeymoon, you'll be glad. If you're not sure if you're in a financial position to buy now, I would be happy to walk you through the pre-qualification process. There is no obligation and you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Please give me a call today if you would like my help. Have a great day!
Windy
888-251-7436
windy@1ratemtg.com
Posted by WWW.HOMEBENEFITIQ.COM on July 27, 2006 at 10:59 AM
TENT SITE SELECTION
THE FIRST CONSIDERATION IS TENT SIZE AND THAT WILL BE DETERMINED BY GUEST COUNT, TYPE OF EVENT, THE AMENITIES TO BE ACCOMMODATED UNDER THE TENT AND A BUFFER ZONE OF 5-10ﾒ AROUND THE TENT TO ALLOW FOR INSTALLATION AND STAKING.
IF YOUR SITE IS LARGE ENOUGH, THEN YOU WILL NEED A REASONABLY LEVEL SURFACE WITH GOOD DRAINAGE. THE SITE SHOULD BE TRUCK ACCESSIBLE TO FACILITATE DELIVERY OF THE TENT AND ALL OF THE EQUIPMENT.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER:
-CAN STAKES BE USED
-IS ELECTRIC POWER AVAILABLE
-WILL HEATING OR COOLING BE REQUIRED
-IS ADEQUATE PARKING AVAILABLE
-WILL A FLOOR BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE A LEVEL SURFACE
-WILL THE CATERER REQUIRE AN ADDITIONAL TENTED AREA
-ASK YOUR TENT VENDOR (WHICH SHOULD ALWAYS BE GRAND
RENTAL STATION) TO PERFORM A SITE SURVEY TO EVALUATE
THE SUITABILITY OF THE SITE FOR YOUR EVENT
Posted by GRAND RENTAL STATION on July 27, 2006 at 10:01 AM
"Customizing" Dealer Album Invitations
If you have looked at wedding invitation albums, and liked a design, and then, done, a "yes, but"...I would like this added or this deleted, or a corresponding color of stock to create more drama with the main piece, the place to come is Lilley Printing where we look at what you want to do to make the finest presentation of your invitations. We have even taken a basic color or stock from an album, and then, created ensemble pieces or elements from co-ordinating colors to make the invitation look like a one of a kind design.
By having our graphic designer create the typography for the design,and using alternative cardstock to match the ink color(s), we have produced work that has an over the top look without an over the top price.
Is the cost higher than the average? Yes. And, so was the invitation to start. We just made it show well.
So, when you decide on an invitation from an album, look at the staff the outfit has, and find out if they can do more than write an order, and do your wording for you.
These little touches, added to our valued added calligraphy addressing make us stand heads and shoulders above the crowd.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 27, 2006 at 07:19 AM
July 26, 2006
Whitening for the big day!
Why spend a ton of money on pictures that are just going to look OKAY, when you can have pictures that are spectacular!
With a whiter smile the cost becomes worth it!
With our in office whitening system you can have a Hollywood white smile in just 1 hour!
To find out more call our office today!
You could have whiter teeth as soon as tomorrow!
Posted by TESSON PARK DENTAL on July 26, 2006 at 02:13 PM
July 25, 2006
Why we educate our clients about us! The Gold Standard
We convey who we are, what we do, how we do it, when we do it, and why we do the work we do so that clients feel that they are well acquainted with us with our newsletter, The Wedding Vow, our website, blogging, and emails from bridesclub.com, and email addresses we have received from wedding shows.
We want our clients to (1) learn about us, (2) learn about our services (3) understand that our services include everything they need for printing for their wedding (4) comprehend that they are going to be getting the best from us and with us (5)get the information that they need to make wise choices, and if they decide to go to someone else, we wish to set the Gold Standard for printing wedding invitations so that at least what they gain from us becomes the criteria for what they expect from someone else.
We love it when clients come to us first, and we also love it when they shop around, and find out for themselves that we are the best choice for them. We know that they are making informed choices.
We strive everyday to become the Gold Standard for wedding invitations!
Why? Because we care about what we do so that we may better serve you!
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 25, 2006 at 02:57 AM
A business that understands a brides' needs
Not only must a business know "its stuff", it must also understand the "needs" of its clientele. Above and beyond the ability to design, print, and serve our clients with fine customer service is the ability to know how to educate its clients to make wise choices from them so that they will be satisfied that they are making the right decisions for themselves.
When a client comes to us, we listen!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We want to know how much they know about what they are about to begin doing. Because, most of our clients have not had any experience in purchasing printing and we want to know what they want, what they have procured in information about their wedding text, what designs and colors they are most interested in, or if they have no idea what they want, but have a sense of what they wish to express, our job is to match the right invitation with each and every bride.
Each client is special to us. We seek to individualize their purchase so that they feel that they have found that right invitation, and are personalizing it with our help.
This goes to my previous blog about "the soul" of a business. We care about what we do because we love serving others.
And, because our clients know we care, they listen to us because they know that we have their best interests at heart.
In a day of cut throat bottom lining bargaining, one can surely buy "invitations on the cheap", and with that price, the consumer is left on her own to lose service, personalization, customization, and the innovation, and even a safety net of knowledge provided by the server........there will be no guide or mentor to provide the information in a bargain basement pricing situation to a client who has not embarked on this journey before.
We are here to guide you on the journey. And, yes, we also give you three things: quality, price, and customer service, and more, value added services in the value credits earned from your purchase that provide you with computer calligrahy addressing that is usually earned with the amount of purchase and at 50 per cent off.
Read more about our fine services on our site: www.lilleyprinting.com
And, write to us for us to provide you with our new newsletter, and more information on the packages and programs we present to our readership online.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 25, 2006 at 02:48 AM
July 24, 2006
A business with a soul serves you!
The soul of our business lies in our specific gifts to serve through excellent design and printing and love what we offer our clients. We demonstrate this in the desire we have to offer fine service, and to patiently attune ourselves to the individual needs of our clients. This comes to our clients as part of package whether or not our clients seek a design from a wedding invitation album that is manufactured offsite that we "tweak" gently and lovingly with custom typesetting at no higher charge than the fees each company charges for "proofs" which we supply to you ahead of the printing, or if you come to us to produce a design that is a one-of-kind created with you.
The soul of our business is in service now for nearly 80 years to the St. Louis community.
The soul of Lilley Printing is in the work of our founders, Walter and Gertrude Lilley who began the co. And, in their son, Robert, who continued after their deaths, and that of his wife.
With his remarriage to Judy Laughton Lilley in 1994, a senior advertising account executive for The Wall Street Journal, the company under their joint leadership evolved into plans for a new generation of family to continue the company's proud tradition in print.
With another family member joining the team as graphic and creative designer in Rebecca Hutchison, the company's evolution into serving Saint Louis family weddings in print became a new focus and niche for meeting the needs of the public and the needs of the evolving team.
Joining their efforts, Paul Hutchison, took over marketing coordination and product development planning for Rebecca's designs.
The talents of the family synergistically form the core of the soul of Lilley Printing by offering you the best of all worlds in print: fine printing, incredible design, and attentive, sensitive service.
Judy Laughton Lilley
judy@lilleyprinting.com
Posted by on July 24, 2006 at 04:42 AM
July 22, 2006
Now getting a lot of BLING doesn't cost a lot of 'CHA-CHING' !
As seen on page 77 of the August Issue of MARIE CLAIRE magazine, there is a new concept in the fashion accessory and jewelry world - WHY BUY WHEN YOU CAN RENT? Choose between borrowing or buying jewels and accessories at http://www.borrowedbling.com/category.php
Posted by BORROWED BLING on July 22, 2006 at 11:15 PM
Bridal Retreats
There are ancient traditions of using henna as body art for wedding rituals, spread across many cultures from India to Indonesia, from Morocco to Pakistan. And those traditions have evolved and moved around the globe as people have migrated and learned from one another. We see henna now all over Europe and in the United States and Canada, too.
Some still use henna in a very traditional way by hosting a "night of the henna" where the bride and groom are surrounded by family and friends, henna'd, blessed, and showered with love and care. And we also see new traditions evolving. Some have henna artists at their wedding receptions to henna guests as a party favor. Some hire the henna artist to henna the bride a few days before the wedding and then to come and gild the design on the wedding day.
For me, in my own henna practice, my clients helped me to discover what we call a "Bridal Retreat". The bride plus 5 - 10 other people come to a retreat location for a day. We are able to talk about henna traditions, look at all kinds of designs, even offer Reiki "boosts" as a way of becoming very present in the moment. Tea and snacks are served. Sometimes a full meal is catered. We henna the bride as lavishly as she'd like. And then we henna any of the attendants who wish to be henna'd also. And all of it is captured by our professional photographer on staff with us from KotaGraph.com. He makes those photos available online three weeks after the event, and they are available for 90 days to all who attended.
One of our recent clients wrote to say:
"Our visit to you on my friend's "bridemaking" day was an unforgettable experience. Everything about working with you was a delight...you were not only professional but welcoming, warm, and fun. We were amazed at your artistic ability with the different designs we selected. We left that afternoon feeling like we'd participated in a long and global tradition of decorating the bride. Having you do henna was an ideal way for our bride to relax, let go, trust that her bridesmaids would take care of her, and to begin dreaming of her new life."
That's the best thing we could give to any bride. A good start on the marriage journey!
One thing that is very important in whatever henna ritual you create: please make sure your artist is using all natural henna products. If they are using "black henna" or "brown henna" or any guaranteed color -- or anything "quick staining", then you may want to run the other way. All natural henna is beautiful and people are rarely allergic to it. But the dangers of "black henna" and other chemically treated mixes are beyond scary. Please be a proactive consumer when hiring your henna artist. Educate yourself. Ask lots of questions. Besides wanting someone who is talented at design, you need to be sure they are using safe product.
Once you are certain you have an all natural artist lined up, then feel free to let your imagination run wild! Henna designs have bloomed and faded over thousands of years. Go ahead! Become a part of that lineage with your own wedding henna ritual!
Kara L.C. Jones, Artist & Founder
www.HennaHealing.com
Posted by HENNAHEALING.COM on July 22, 2006 at 09:03 PM
Honeymoon Registry
The best advice I can provide for your honeymoon is to start a honeymoon registry. Even if you don't know where you want to go you can start it right away. Refer friends and family to send money your way so you can build up an account to help pay for your honeymoon. You can link to my registery through my website www.laurie.allabouthoneymoons.com! Its free and easy to set up. Check it out today!
Posted by ALL ABOUT HONEYMOONS on July 22, 2006 at 03:45 PM
Invitations: How much will they cost?
The most basic invitations:
100 invitations in a basic Emily Post style from Chase with an embossed border will run about $86.00 on lesser expensive stock. This includes double envelopes, and printing of the outer flap will run another $32, reception cards will be around $52 per 100, respond card and envelopes will be $62.00 range, and informal notes without printed outer flaps will be another $52.00.
For a wedding invitations needs of 150 invitations,in this style, the total cost with proofs of each item will be $126.00 for invitations, $42.oo for printed flaps, 76.00 for reception cards, $90 for respond card and envelopes, $76.00 for thank you notes. Basic liners will be $30.00 in the colors shown in the album. Proofs will be approximately forty dollars. Total cost: $480.00, Tax: $36.56 plus shipping. Shipping estimate: $35-$40. Total possible: $546.56 for a basic card with embossing and black ink. This is a standard, very basic style of invitation printed in thermography. We suggest adding extra envelopes for errors, and printing of the back flaps for the outers.
An invitation from a basic selection in Simply Encore for 150 invitations, reception cards, response cards and envelopes, with printed flaps, and thank you notes and proofs will be $652.00 plus 49.66 tax, and shipping will be aproximately 35 to 40 dollars or a total maximum of $741.66. The printing will be thermograph. In this situation, the basic invitation card is $149.90 per 100. The back flap printing is $39.50 per 100, etc.
When moving to a medium priced invitation in Encore, we would be talking about an invitation that would be around $249.00 per 100 with a maximum base price of 100 for 289 dollars for the invitation cards alone.
In Simple but Elegant, the base cost for the invitations alone start at 200 dollars per 100, with the respond card at 83/100, reception card at 70/100, and informal notes at 71/100. A base price before tax and shipping would be around $687.00
In the first edition of the Expressions of Love album from Encore Studios, the base price is 309 dollars per 100 invitations.
The second edition of Expressions of Love form Encore has a beginning cost of 319 dollars per 100 invitations.
If you would like a full cost estimate on 150 invitations on any invitation from these albums, please either go to our shop online shop for Encore, or give us a call.
All custom invitations may be printed on a variety of stock(s) and layers of card stock, and must be estimated on a one by one basis.
Anything from our Envelopments line will be quoted within approximately forty eight hours depending on the printing process required and that it is given to us during the week.
We see clients six days a week by appointment only. Both early morning appointments and evening appointments are available.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 22, 2006 at 02:36 PM
July 21, 2006
Invite the President to your wedding
Seriously. If you send an invitation to the President of the United States, you will receive a letter of congratulations from the President and the first Lady.
It makes a wonderful memento of your wedding.
Judy Lilley
Posted by on July 21, 2006 at 04:54 AM
July 20, 2006
Invitations: How long?
Invitations can be printed in less than month depending on the supplier(s) and the design. We have done designs that are custom that we have already created in 3 weeks.
However, the time has to be available in our bookings to get it done. Or, we have work on schedule for months ahead that is in progress that allows this.
However, it is a good idea to order invitations a minimum of 4 months ahead of time.
If you don't, you may have to sacrifice using a supplier you want or pay that supplier's rush fees, and many suppliers will NOT do a rush order for any price.
Giving yourself more time will make the process more fun, and you will be less likely to make an error in proofing, etc.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 20, 2006 at 07:43 AM
How many invitations?
Deciding on the number of guests for you, your fiance, your parents, and your fiance's parents are the first order of determining the wedding guest list. From this number of for most families, the essential invitees, a wedding budget will have to be planned or a budget set of how much for the reception alone, and how to make it work with the reception hall, and amenities to go with it. If your budget is for 200 people, you may invite more than this, but in reality, that is about 100 accepted invitations with two people responding "yes" on it..
If 90 percent respond that would give you about 110 invites to send out.
However, if most of the guests are out of town, one could invite a few more on each side. So one might be able to go to 125 or 130 since an invitation includes 2 people usually.
Last year, we did a wedding with an order for 150 invitations in June for October. At the signoff for proofs, they added 75 more.
Therefore, the standard is, if space, and budget allow, make the the whole list out, and save 25 extras for anyone the the 4 lists did not include.
Remember that ordering proofs buys you some time to change the count before you go to press.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 20, 2006 at 07:04 AM
July 19, 2006
Wedding Guest List(s)
There will be 4 lists, yours, your fiance's, your parents, and the groom's parents.
Usually, the bride's family graciously allows the groom's family an equal number of guests for the wedding and reception.
In circumstances, where the groom's family lives out of town, and most of the relatives are out of town as well, the brides' family will automatically know that they may allow the groom's family to actually invite more guests as there will be a smaller attendance because of these circumstances. And, usually, the bride's family also knows that this is going to give them more latitude with adding more guests to their own lists.
It is in everyone's best interests and the interests of the total costs involved for the wedding for both families as well as the bride and groom to realistically determine their guests list.
Deciding on a reception "hall" or hotel will depend on the total number of guests, the formality of the wedding and reception, and the size of the guest list.
This one item determines the largest expenditure of the entire wedding and must be one of the first things accomplished. One does NOT need to have every single address at first. However, the names of the guests need to be decided.
Additionally, it is a very good idea to ask grandparents about the names of long-time family friends that need to be included.
As the list grows, a list of those persons one would like to include on both sides and cannot can arise, that cannot be invited, and to these people, you will wish to mail announcements, the day after the wedding as a courtesy to them.
Making the list(s) allows you to plan the reception budget, size, menu, etc and is the baseline for determining the largest part of your wedding budget.
More on guest lists and wedding guests next.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 19, 2006 at 11:19 PM
Wedding Invitation Planning Sheet
Send me an email for this planning sheet for your wedding invitations. It will help you focus on your the thoughts you have been having for them. And, help you with your invitation planning appointment long before you make it.
As you begin this process, you will automatically begin to think in terms of expressing your presence in print.
Send us an email today! Visit our site for ideas. And view our photogallery here and enjoy.
Judy Laughton Lilley
judy@lilleyprinting.com
314-752-7092
Posted by on July 19, 2006 at 08:15 AM
Guest Lists before you book a reception hall
Making a wonderful booklet of guest lists and wedding guest information is going to be a lifesaver for getting together the information you will be tracking with your family for your wedding.
Starting with the guest list before you even book a reception hall will help you (1) stay on target with your budget (2) be certain you book a location that will accommodate everyone (3) make sure you know how many invitations you will be purchasing.
We have worked with brides who had to limit the number of people who came to the reception because of space, not always their budgets.
Take all your goals for the wedding into consideration before you book the location.
We work with you to help make this happen more easily for you. And, you know you are buying enough invitations as well.
Judy Laughton Lilley
314-752-7092
judy@lilleyprinting.com
Posted by on July 19, 2006 at 08:11 AM
Something different and tradtional in invitations
The incredible way we do this is to make you happy with something that can be touchingly beautiful, wedding oriented, slightly different, and use traditional wording and fonts to capture the essence of your criteria.
This is about YOU. It is about us serving you to make this moment happen.
Judy Laughton Lilley
314-752-7092
judy@lilleyprinting.com
Posted by on July 19, 2006 at 08:02 AM
July 18, 2006
Steve Kemble and more!
The 2006 National Educational Conference, being held at the Pointe South Mountain Resort in Phoenix, Arizona, has attracted record attendance!
Dianna Shitanishi, Honolulu NACE Chapter President and owner of Hawaii Weddings and Events, has been attending the annual educational conferences since 1999.
In addition to fellow NACE member and event guru, Steve Kemble who has been featured onStyle's "Whose Wedding is it Anyways" and ABC's "Extreme Makeover" Wedding Edition, this year's dynamic speakers have included:
Scott Corridan
Owner, Corridan and Company Design,
Santa Barbara, CA
Kimberly Schlegel
RSVP Party Services and Soiree Luxury Event
Rentals, Dallas, TX
Sylvia Weinstock, the Famous "Cake Lady of Soho"
Sylvia Weinstock Cakes, New York, NY
Dan McCall
Founder and CEO, McCall Catering,
San Francisco, CA
Design D￩cor - The Art Of Entertaining
Presented by Tara Guerard, Founder of Soiree, Charleston, SC
Celebrity Chef Dave Lieberman, one of the newest upcoming chefs on the Food Network
It's been an amazing trip to Phoenix, I can want to share ideas with my clients!
Posted by HAWAII WEDDINGS AND EVENTS on July 18, 2006 at 06:42 PM
What women want!
Two words: "IT" "ALL"
We do our best to give it to you!
Judy Laughton Lilley, CEO, Lilley Printing Co.
Posted by on July 18, 2006 at 04:01 AM
It's all about YOU!
Getting to know YOU, our customer, is the biggest kick we get out of what we do. We are warm, happy, confident, incredibly creative and fun people to work with.
We are also capable, talented, reliable, and resourceful and ever-vigilant to give you the utmost in beautiful printing, fine design, supportive attention to detail, and the best customer service possible.
We ask that you do your best to meet the guided deadlines and requests we need in terms of information from you to make it happen.
Then, we put our group to the task of making your dreams come true in wedding stationery for your wedding.
It is all about you. We would love to meet you.
Judy Laughton Lilley, M.A., LPC, and CEO of Lilley Printing Co.
Posted by on July 18, 2006 at 03:59 AM
July 17, 2006
Adding new music to our repertoire
Thanks to all of you who have made suggestions to add to our repertoire/song list! As it states on our website, we will arrange a special song at your request. Through these requests we have added many beautiful songs- and some unconventional ones as well- to our repertoire. Some of these include:
Stairway to Heaven
Darth Vader Theme (for the groomsmen)
Korean and Chinese hymns and love songs
Flora's Secret (Enya)
and many more...
If you don't see your favorite song on our website, just ask!
Posted by ATRIEM on July 17, 2006 at 06:01 PM
THINKING OF A TENT FOR YOUR WEDDING?
HAVE YOU BEEN THINKING ABOUT A TENT FOR YOUR WEDDING? THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING COMPLETELY UNIQUE, BUT THERE ARE SOME QUESTIONS YOU'LL WANT ANSWERED BY YOUR POTENTIAL TENT VENDOR.
1. DO YOU USE A CAD (COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN) PROGRAM TO RECOMMEND THE PROPER SIZE TENT FOR MY WEDDING?
2. DO YOU CLEAN YOUR TENT TOPS REGULARLY TO MAKE SURE THAT I RECEIVE A "WEDDING WHITE" TENT?
3. CAN YOU SUPPLY MY OTHER RENTAL NEEDS, TABLES, CHAIRS, CHINA, ETC TO MINIMIZE THE AMOUNT OF COORDINATION REQUIRED OF ME?
4. IF YOU CAN SUPPLY MY OTHER NEEDS, WHAT PRECAUTIONS DO YOU TAKE TO ENSURE THAT I RECEIVE ONLY THE FINEST, CLEANEST RENTAL EQUIPMENT?
5. DO YOU HAVE THE EXPERIENCE NECESSARY TO MAKE SURE THAT THIS IS THE MOST MEMORABLE DAY OF MY LIFE?
WE AT GRAND RENTAL STATION CAN PROVIDE POSITIVE ANSWERS TO ALL OF THESE QUESTIONS. GIVE US A CALL OR STOP BY. LET US HELP YOU MAKE THIS THE MOST MEMORABLE DAY OF YOUR LIFE!
Posted by GRAND RENTAL STATION on July 17, 2006 at 04:00 PM
Wedding Processional Recessional Guidelines
Wedding Processional Recessional Guidelines
The Wedding Ceremony Processional Guidelines
By Rev. Angela S. Heil, DD
1. General Tips:
A. Low Volume Music can be playing during the seating process.
Appointing a member of the bridal party to take charge of starting the music and keeping the volume low will be less stressful for you.
B. The Bride & Grooms appointed friends, relatives or venue hired Ushers should greet each guest as they arrive, and should escort them to their seats by offering females their right arm, the male guests follow behind them.
C. Ushers should fill the front seats first with guests to prevent a look of large empty sections on your photos. Ushers being mindful to leave a few seats open upfront, on both sides, for the wedding party and family.
D. Many coupleﾒs offer their guests a program of the ceremony. Other couples recommended this vendor for affordable programs:
[www.personaltouchweddinginvitations.com]
E. For a traditional Catholic Wedding, the brideﾒs guests sit on the Left -[Bride stands to the left of Groom]. A Jewish Wedding, the brideﾒs guests sit on the Right -[Bride stands to the right of Groom].
F. Non-Denominational weddings allow for general seating.
G. Both the Father of the Bride and Stepfather can simultaneously walk her down the aisle. However, Bride chooses who will give her away.
2.The Ceremony Begins:
Prelude Wedding Music: Canon in ﾓDﾔ
Or coupleﾒs choice of processional light music now plays.
A. The Basic Traditional Processional Order:
1.The first to enter and walk down the aisle:**
The Groom
2.The Best Man
He Holds the wedding rings.
3.Followed by all the Groomsmen.
They stand up front facing towards the seated guests.
2.The Usher leads the Grandmother[s] of the Bride to her seat.
3.The Usher leads the Grandmother[s] of the Groom to her seat.
4.The Usher leads the Groomﾒs mother to her seat.
5.The Usher leads the Brideﾒs mother to her seat.
6.The Bridesmaids walk down the aisle five steps behind each other and stand next to the Groomﾒs men.
7.The Maid of honor walks down the aisle.
8.The Ring Bearer [or Aka: ring dude] walks down the aisle.*
[Please note:*Do not tie rings to the pillow or dog collar because they might not come off easily when nervous. Instead, place a faux set on the pillow for same effect and allow the best man to hold the real ones in their boxes.]
**British Weddings the Bride goes down the aisle first followed by her bridal party.
9.The Flower Girl follows behind Ring Bearer, tossing flower pedals.[Optional]
B. Alternate Processional Order:
Groom waits at the front facing guestﾒs while-
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen walk as couples five steps apart from the couple in front.
Best Man and Maid [Matron] of Honor walk together.
Ring Bearer [Ring Dude] and Flower Girl walk side by side.
Then Wedding March Music or Couples selection-Begins:
10.The Father of the Bride escorts her down the aisle.
3. The Marriage Vows and Solemnizing Process
Note: All may be adjusted to your special needs.
A. The Maid of Honor holds Brides Flowers and helps father lift up her veil from her face.
B. Father gives away Bride,[or the Escort of her choosing] helps lift up her veil, gives her a kiss, Groom than shakes the fathers hand and escorts the Bride to Altar. Father or escort returns to his seat next to his partner.
C. Officiantﾒs Greeting and Introduction of the Couple starts the ceremony.
D. Hired Singer leads Songs [optional], Officiant leads attendees in Prayer, Reading by family or friends and/or Sermon and your vows are then stated.
E. The Ring Ceremony and blessing may involve the attendees.
F. Next All Other Traditional Wedding Customs and Cultural Elements: passing of coins to each other, Unity candle lighting, knot tying, rose ceremony, sharing of wine and bread, etc..
G. Officiantﾒs Pronouncement of Marriage.
H. The Final Presentation of the Newlywed Couple - with or without - the Butterfly or Dove Release. Please make sure you keep the weather or time of day in mind to insure their safety and survival - in order for them to make a home or nest. Please ask your vendor for details!
I. Optional Benediction: Last Prayer/blessing.
4.The Recessional
A. Soft Music Playing [ for example: The Wedding March] as the Bride and Groom turn towards the guests, walking down the aisle, to exit together arm in arm.
B. Flower Girl and Ring Bearer follow five steps behind them and exit.
C. Maid of Honor and Best Man follow five steps behind them and exit.
D. Bridesmaids and Groomsmen do the same as above.
E. Next Mother and Father of the Bride.
F. Then Mother and Father of the Groom.
G. Followed by the Grandparents.
5. Eco Friendly Exit Tradition
Many guest choose to throw rice at the newlyweds as they exit the church or venue. Birds will eat it and when the rice swells up in the birdﾒs belly it could harm them. Perhaps youﾒll consider an eco-friendly alternative mix of birdﾒs seed, [some couples have their names and wedding date placed on the seed packets: www.tenderseedcompany.com] or bubbles, butterflies or dove release, and flower petals or your ideas to be substituted for the handful of rice your guestﾒs may throw towards you- as you exit the building or ceremony venue.
Please tell your friends, and family about my services. Iﾒm also available for baby blessings and vow-renewals! Thank you for choosing ASH Ministries, Inc.
God Bless You Both As You Begin this Special Journey!
Rev. Dr. Angela Heil, RMP
631-736-1371 Fax 631-736-9350
Email: revangela@angelaheilministries.com
revangela@optonline.net
www.angelaheilministries.com
www.holisticproducts.org
[No part of this blog can be copied without full credit to its author- Rev. Dr. Angela Heil!]
Posted by ANGELA HEIL MINISTRIES INC NY & LI REG. OFFICIANTS on July 17, 2006 at 05:46 AM
July 16, 2006
Creating an invitation you love and get an emotional reaction!
That is the highest goal!
To enjoy creating the invitation and have us get all involved with our expertise to do it!
Mrs. L.
Posted by on July 16, 2006 at 03:56 PM
Dream come true invitations: just for you!
When you seek an invitation that clicks with you, or have a concept that you know would be beautiful,you are not limited to your local art store, and your computer, and possibly lack of software and ability to typographically design it, nor have the appropriates presses, or the ability to create the exact ink color you want.
By seeking out a company that is as diverse in its capabilities as Lilley Printing Co., you offer yourself the opportunity to get exactly what you had in mind put together perfectly for you.
May all your fondest dreams come true with us!
Mrs.Lilley
Posted by on July 16, 2006 at 03:54 PM
July 15, 2006
Custom Invitations MAY cost LESS not MORE
Or no more than album invitations that are similar in materials bedcause you save money on the assembly if we show you how to assemble them, and you get the look you want for yourself that no one else has done just exactly like you.
And, we get to create a one of a kind look that is all yours.
When choosing a custom invitation, you do NOT have to choose something from our gallery.
We co-custom create just for you.
Judy Laughton Lilley
Posted by on July 15, 2006 at 06:24 AM
July 14, 2006
Protravel and Cruise Connection
We are a local business with more then 20 years experience. Here at Protravel, we are dedicated to making your travel experience one you will never forget. Contact us for friendly service and unbeatable travel packages. Congratutations on your big day, hope to hear from you soon. Protravel
Posted by PROTRAVEL on July 14, 2006 at 04:13 PM
July 13, 2006
Birchcraft Album and Online Ordering Coming Soon
We were just notified this afternoon that Birchcraft Studios approved our dealer application and we will soon receive a new Birchcracft Wedding Album as well as access to their entire online invitation and accessory catalog. Keep watching our website, www.gettingpersonalimprinting.com, for the launch of this great new partnership.
Posted by GETTING PERSONAL IMPRINTING on July 13, 2006 at 06:57 PM
The Wedding Vow, Lilley Printing since 1927!
We have been publishing The Wedding Vow since 1997! Within the past two years, we have noticed the "direct" lifts of information from this publication and other writings that are the intellectual and copyrighted property of our company have appeared on other "wanna be" designers websites and in printed materials.
When in doubt, check out our site, or check out the previous copies of our newsletters online to make sure you are not getting a "wanna be" designer instead of the "real thing".
Our company was founded in 1927.
Before you make a decision about ANYONE else to do your work, take advantage of the free consult we provide IN PERSON on your schedule.
Judy Laughton Lilley, M.A. Counseling and Psychology, LPC
CFO of Lilley Printing Co.
Posted by on July 13, 2006 at 12:18 PM
July 11, 2006
Prices now online
Obviously it's impossible to show pricing for everything online, but we understand the importance of letting customers know up front the ballpark costs for what we offer. We hope you find the pricing information we have added helpful, and that the information makes you a little less reluctant to call or e-mail us if you want a quote on an invitation you've seen in one of our albums or online.
We're beginning to do some research on finding office space so we can offer a public place where you can come to browse through invitation albums or speak to us about collaborating on custom invitations.
You've probably noticed that we do not offer extremely high-end invitations. There are a few reasons for that. First, we live on a budget and 16 years ago when we got married we had to find the most economical options when planning our wedding. It's our belief that most people are in that same boat. Second, we appreciate the fact that the stationery companies we do partner with allow us to set our own prices, offer our own specials and allow customers to mix and match the items they want for their wedding and reception. Many of the higher-end invitation companies do not give dealers those options - dealers are required to sell invitations at a certain price and they cannot offer sales or discounts, and the companies are very rigid requiring higher minimim order quantities.
If you got our online offer this week and like the look of the custom invitation we featured, contact us. We have more options to show you. Therse invitations are all exclusive designs from the company that makes them. They offer several different designs,and more than a dozen color options that you can mix and match. The sample featured in our offer can be purchased blank for you to print. 100 invitations and enclosures will cost about $115 plus shipping and tax. If you want us to print them, add 40 cents for each item you want printed.
Posted by GETTING PERSONAL IMPRINTING on July 11, 2006 at 10:09 AM
July 10, 2006
Wedding Flower Specialist
All I love to design is wedding flowers. After 25 years in the business I still enjoy giving each bride and her family unlimited personal attention. I only take one wedding on any given day. Have many special touches I provide, I always want to be one of the best parts of your wedding day, easy going, organized and versed in all aspects of design. I will work with in your budget to create a beautiful floral wedding for you.
Call or write any time.
Kathi Ward 360-668-7800
web www.KFfloral.com
E-mail KFfloral@aol.com
Posted by KATHI'S FREELANCE FLORAL on July 10, 2006 at 04:19 PM
Have Your Own Free Wedding Website
Book your wedding and overnight accommodations with the Bellevue Downtown Courtyard by Marriott, and receive a free webpage with wedding details and group block reservation information for out-of-town guests.
Your webpage will include an area where you can have a paragraph description of the wedding, including dates, location, travel info, or anything else related to the wedding. You can also include other web links if you'd like (i.e. ceremony and/or reception websites, registry website, etc). Attach files such as a map to the rehearsal dinner or reception. There is even a place for a photo of you and your fiancee! At the bottom of the page is information specific the hotel's amenities and area info. Guests can make reservations directly into your room block without going through a reservation agent.
Using this webpage will be a great benefit to you and your guests, particularly those traveling great distances who might not be familiar with the area. In just a few clicks, they can find out everything they need to know about your big day!
Posted by BELLEVUE DOWNTOWN COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT on July 10, 2006 at 10:39 AM
Online Wedding Packages
Don't waste time waiting for a hotel to send you their menu information. The Bellevue Downtown Courtyard by Marriott now has its wedding packages online so you can access anytime anywhere. Just go to:
http://marriott.com/property/meetingsandevents/social/bvudt
On the right hand side, click the link for wedding packages. Of course, these can be customized to your specific needs. The hotel's wedding planner makes it easy to arrange many aspects of your wedding in one place, without all the hassle.
Posted by BELLEVUE DOWNTOWN COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT on July 10, 2006 at 10:29 AM
Bangles, Beads and Precious Stones; Jewelry & Accessories
In my continued endeavors to provide brides with ways to make thier day unique, I have another lovely idea. Custom jewels at affordable prices. Why stop at the perfect wedding ring? Go a step further and have a custom choker, chain or bracelet created just for you.
Weddings are full of tradition and sybolism. You get to pick and choose which ones are right for you. Why not add the timeless beauty of custom made jewelry to your special day?
Just as flowers have their own language, so do precious and semi-precious stones. Some examples are: Pearl: understanding and love for the true values in life....touches the deepest emotions. Rose Quartz: The stone of love... sybolizes the calm and serene emotions. Tourmaline, pink: beauty, happiness and love.
Look for a custom artist in your area. Some work in traditional fine jewelry, based on castings in gold and precious cut stones ($$$). Others may specialize in custom sterling & gold wire work, pearls on silk cord, hand made beads or original clasps and findings ($). Look for someone to fit your particular style, vision & pocket book (local art fairs, and even Farmers' Markets, can yield uniquely talented vendors). A favorite vendor in the Gig Harbor area is Reverence Jewelers, on Harborview Dr.
On your Big Day, match the sparkle in your eyes with a custom sparkle at the neckline. After all, all of us ladies know that it's all about the accessories.
-Gina at A Greater Plan
Posted by A GREATER PLAN; WEDDINGS & EVENTS CONSULTING on July 10, 2006 at 10:25 AM
Kenzen Body Balance July 25
Hi Brides, Continuing with the Kenzen Body Balance program, this is the 3rd month, I have lots 12 pounds slowly but 13 inches between my thigh, hips, waist, bust & upper arms. I have re-found my waistline, & clothes that have been hanging in my closet for 10 years are now fitting me again. I am going shopping for a new wardrobe, those clothes are really old. I haven't had to starve myself, in fact I can eat so much food & still drop inches. The retail costs is $7.50 a day, wholesale is only $5.50 & you eat real food. In a busy bridal schedule this is an easy win/win program for your body to change 90 days or less before your wedding. Call me for samples, 360.659.2968. Or visit us in Marysville, call for an appointment to check out my before picture & the NEW me. Attend a FREE Body Balance presentation at the Bridal Clearance Center July 25th ALL DAY until 8pm.
Posted by BRIDAL CLEARANCE CENTER AT THE PICKIE NEEDLE on July 10, 2006 at 10:24 AM
July 9, 2006
$$$$$ Drawings quarterly in the $500 gift certificate
Lilley Printing will hold quarterly drawings for all entrants in the big price give aways. More than $2000.00 was given away in custom printing gift certificates with the big prize of $500.00 going to the winner who is being married in the winter!
Take advantage of making a personalized appointment around your work schedule so that we may get to know one another.
Look for us at the Wedding Show on August 6th!
Mrs. Lilley
Posted by on July 9, 2006 at 12:29 PM
July 7, 2006
$500 gift certificate won!
The winner is a bride being married in the winter. As soon as she write back, and gives us permission to use her name here, we will announce the winner!
Other prizes were drawn by a computer program and emails were sent out to each bride. These prizes ranged in values less than $500.00 with appropriate stipulations for use.
A drawing for a gift certificate will be made each quarter. The next one is scheduled for September!
You must enter your full name, wedding date, your complete address, city, state, zip and phone numbers and write
marketing@lilleyprinting.com to enter.
Mrs. L.
Posted by on July 7, 2006 at 08:39 PM
Value added credits with your wedding invitations.
When our clients purchase $500 worth of wedding invitations, we address up to 100 invitation envelopes for free!
These value added credits are worth over $200 in paid for services with other album dealers.
Think about the total package when you purchase.
Mrs. L.
Posted by on July 7, 2006 at 08:33 AM
July 6, 2006
SHOP ON LINE AND GET 10% OFF AND FREE ENGRAVING
Wedding Essentials By Melisa is a leading full service on-line provider of Cathy's Concepts products. We stock the latest in Bridal Jewelry, Gifts and Essentials. Browse our site and shop for ALL YOUR WEDDING ESSENTIALS like Bridal Jewelry, Gifts for the groom, Bridesmaid gifts, Groomsmen gifts, Wedding Flutes, Wedding Favors, Ring Pillows, Adorable Accessories For The Flower Girl, Toasting Flutes, Unity Candles, Cake Servers and much much more. We are your one-stop on-line Bridal Shop for all your wedding essentials. All products are discounted 10% for you and your bridal party. We offer a large selection of personalized gifts with FREE ENGRAVING. Our engraved gifts are always in stock and ready for immediate delivery, and with our fast shipping your gifts will arrive in plenty of time for your dream day. Please shop with confidence in knowing that we are HELPING MAKE YOUR DREAM DAY A REALITY.
Posted by WEDDING ESSENTIALS BY MELISA on July 6, 2006 at 02:15 PM
July 5, 2006
New Online Albums Just Added to Our Site
If you're still looking for your invitation package, check out links to four (Yes - 4) new albums from Tatex Thermographers, now available through our website, www.gettingpersonalimprinting.com. Go to the Album Collections Page and look for the links. If you see something you like, contact me for a quote.
Posted by GETTING PERSONAL IMPRINTING on July 5, 2006 at 09:56 AM
July 2, 2006
Have you seen "Click?"
Whether you love Adam Sandler or not, his movie, "Click", provides a very important message - don't fast forward through life. You miss an awful lot if you do. As you start your married lives together, take that to heart.
Posted by GETTING PERSONAL IMPRINTING on July 2, 2006 at 11:46 AM
Design Decor - The Art of Entertaining
Continued education has always been very important to not only make time for myself but to keep abreast of the latest trends in the event industry, which in turn keeps me one step ahead of my competition and allows me to better service my valued clients.
Dianna Shitanishi will travel for the NACE 2006 Educational Conference, July 16-19 in Pointe South Mountain Resort in Phoenix, AZ.
Design D￩cor - The Art Of Entertaining is just one of the dynamic sessions offered at the conference.
Itﾒs not just about the looksﾅitﾒs about the ambiance, the food, the service, the lighting, the EVERYTHINGﾅevery detail counts! In this session you will be awed as Tara and her team build the most fabulous party backdrop, transform ordinary fabrics into amazing d￩cor elements, demonstrate creative lounge ideas and display interesting table designs with the hottest colors, shapes and unique characteristics. Every caterer, event planner, designer or florist will be interested in hearing the newest, hippest ideas for transforming your next event. See why Tara and the innovations of Soiree are featured in industry national publications. You will even enjoy creative culinary creations that compliment Taraﾒs event designs. A true experience you wonﾒt want to miss!
For more details see:
http://www.nace.net/06conf/ec06/index.html
Posted by HAWAII WEDDINGS AND EVENTS on July 2, 2006 at 04:11 AM
July 1, 2006
JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND - SPECIAL OFFER
HELLO:
MY MAME IS DUANE WRIGHT, THE LEADER OF THE JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND
AND I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH YOU SOME VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON HOW WE HELP BRIDES WITH PLANNING MUSIC FOR THEIR WEDDINGS.
WE OFFER PROFESSIONAL MUSIC PLANNING SERVICES THAT WILL HELP YOU
WITH YOUR MUSICAL NEEDS FOR YOUR WEDDING. WE CAN SAVE YOU HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS BY MAKING THE RIGHT DECISIONS. WE WILL SHARE WITH YOU AT NO CHARGE TO YOU, OUR YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN PLAYING FOR 100'S OF WEDDINGS. THIS TAKES INTO CONSIDERATION THE FOLLOWING VERY IMPORTANT ITEMS.
FREE CONSULTATION SERVICES FOR:
1. CEREMONY, COCKTAIL HOUR, RECEPTION PLUS ALL OTHER
SPECIAL MUSICAL REQUIRELMENTS.
2. BEST CHOICES FOR INSTRUMENTATION AND VOCALIST.
3. BEST VENUE FOR YOUR WEDDING - LOCATION-LOCATION-LOCATION
WE CAN HELP YOU CHOOSE JUST THE RIGHT SIZE LOACTION FOR
YOUR SIZE WEDDING. WE HAVE PERFORMED IN JUST ABOUT
EVERY LOCATION IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST, INCLUDING
MAJOR HOTELS AND RESORTS, AND WE CAN TELL YOU ABOUT
THEIR SERVICE, INCLUDING CATERING AND ORGANIZATION.
ALSO ABOUT THE ACOUSTICS, THEIR ACCOMODATIONS, AND
RECOMMEND JUST THE RIGHT SIZE HALL FOR YOUR WEDDING,
WHETHER YOU EXPECT 25 PEOPLE OR 500 PEOPLE.
4. WE WILL PERFORM JUST THE RIGHT KIND AND TYPE OF MUSIC
YOU DESIRE. WE ARE THE JAZZ "UNLIMITED" BAND.
I MEET IN PERSON WITH BRIDES AND GROOMS (ALSO E-MAIL AND TELEPHONE) TO DISCUSS THEIR IMPORTANT WEDDING PLANS. OUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ARE FREE. OUR PRICES ARE VERY AFFORDABLE BECAUSE WE DO ALL OUR OWN BOOKING. YOU DO NOT PAY BOOKING AGENTS HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS IN FEES WHEN YOU HIRE THE JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND.
JOIN THE MANY BRIDES THAT HAVE CONTACTED THE JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND, AND LET OUR YEARS OF EXPERIENCE HELP YOU IN MAKING THE RIGHT DECISIONS FOR YOUR VERY IMPORTANT WEDDING DAY.
THE BEST IN LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
"AT AFFORDABLE PRICES"
THE ONE AND ONLY "JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND"
SINCERELY,
DUANE M. WRIGHT
CALL TOLL FREE AT 1-866-337-2111
Posted by JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND on July 1, 2006 at 01:55 PM
What to ask for on the response card of your invitations!
More recently, we have seen a growing number of brides decide to place a menu selection along with the response to wedding. In addition, we are suggesting that brides ask for the email addresses of each guest so that any additional information regarding accommodations that is NOT on the map enclosed with the invitation can be provided. Also, if guests require information regarding appropriate baby sitters, or special needs, an email allows you to stay in touch with them as well on many other matters, including your friendship with them.
Mrs. L.
