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	<title>KC Weddings</title>
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	<link>http://kcweddings.net</link>
	<description>Kansas City&#039;s Original Wedding Blog</description>
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		<title>Should You Arrive by Limo or Vintage Car?</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/limo-or-vintage-car.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/limo-or-vintage-car.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2011 20:37:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=139</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many ways that you can choose to arrive at the chapel doors on the happiest day of your life, and while some may seem exciting or romantic in theory, you really need to consider the downside of riding in on a stallion (they smell bad, they’re hard to control, you’ll have to ride [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>There are many ways that you can choose to arrive at the chapel doors on the happiest day of your life, and while some may seem exciting or romantic in theory, you really need to consider the downside of riding in on a stallion (they smell bad, they’re hard to control, you’ll have to ride side-saddle, and they have no qualms about stepping on your train) or skydiving above the site (you could land in a field three miles away if it’s windy).  In short, you might want to put the big ideas on the backburner and select a mode of transportation that is formal, functional, and not so fraught with potential drawbacks.  In this regard both limousines and classic cars could fit the bill.  But if you can’t really decide which you would prefer, here are just a couple of things you may want to consider before you choose.</p>
<ol>
<li>Driver.  There’s something to be said for having a driver to navigate traffic while you sit back and sip champagne with your bridesmaids on the way to the church.  But what if the driver shows up late?  He certainly isn’t as invested in getting you there on time as you are.  You’re simply going to have to decide if you’d rather have convenience or control when it comes to whether or not you want a driver.</li>
<li>Comfort.  There’s no denying that a limo is more comfortable than a classic car.  Since the limo is likely to be fairly new, you’ll have a superior engine and chassis (including better suspension, automatic transmission, fuel injection, unleaded fuel, and so on).  Vintage automobiles, on the other hand, may offer a bumpy ride, the smell of gasoline, and a shifter that sticks (not to mention a complete lack of amenities like air conditioning, GPS, and seatbelts).  And if you break down on the way there (classic cars can easily overheat, amongst other things) you’ll wish you had chosen the limo.</li>
<li>Style.  A limo comes with a high caliber of class, but if a stylish entrance is what you want, you just can’t beat a cool classic car.  Imagine driving up in a gorgeous bathtub Porsche, a 1960s Mustang convertible, or a 1950s two-tone Ford Fairlane with the top down and your veil streaming in the wind.  That’s a photo op, for sure.  Even better, think of yourself driving away in this car with your new husband, with cans and a “Just Married” sign attached to the back bumper.  It’s a pretty picture, isn’t it?  It’s certainly more unique and stylish than a limo.</li>
<li>Size.  A limo is definitely going to be bigger than a car, even if the car is a land yacht.  If you’re planning on arriving with your whole entourage you might be better off going in one car rather than caravanning.  And think about trying to squeeze behind the wheel of a car in your huge dress; it’s bound to cause you a number of problems ranging from mild to potentially severe.</li>
<li>Cost.  This will depend largely on the company you choose, but you could pay about the same amount either way.  Although you would expect to pay less for a car rental, restored vintage cars for rent are both rare and expensive (to insure), meaning that the cost gets passed on to you.  However, considering that you’ll pay by the hour for the limo and by the day for the car, you’ll almost certainly spend less on the latter.</li>
</ol>
<p>Sarah Danielson writes for <a href="http://www.premierlimo.net/" target="_blank">Connecticut Limo</a> where you can find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Fun Activities for Your Wedding Reception</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/fun-reception.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/fun-reception.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:37:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=134</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether you are planning an event at your reception or you want something fun to keep your guests laughing and having a good time, you will want to have some form of entertainment to make your wedding memorable. Some couples like to be sure that there are fun photos of their wedding while others like [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Whether you are planning an event at your reception or you want something fun to keep your guests laughing and having a good time, you will want to have some form of entertainment to make your wedding memorable. Some couples like to be sure that there are fun photos of their wedding while others like to base their reception around music. The following ideas detail some new and some time-honored traditions for fun activities during your wedding reception.</p>
<p>1. The Mr. and Mrs. Quiz is always a fun go-to for reception entertainment. Husband and wife sit facing the guests while an emcee asks basic questions about each other. You are both provided with a small whiteboard and marker to mark an answer to a question. You might be surprised by the answers your new spouse gives about your driving abilities or shoe size, while your guests will get a laugh.</p>
<p>2. Providing a digital or Polaroid camera and an erasable message board in a special space at your reception can give your guests an amusing activity while giving you some great memories or moments you might miss at your wedding. Since you probably won’t have time to speak with every guest that comes to your wedding, setting up a small 8&#215;12 inch message board next to a camera and having your guests write special messages or wedding wishes to you and taking pictures of themselves holding their written message will give everyone a chance to wish you well.</p>
<p>3. If you want to provide a more familiar photo experience, photo booths are available to rent for special occasions. Having a photo booth is a good way to ensure that you’ll get pictures of everybody, because people of all ages and walks of life enjoy photo booth pictures. When the fun is over and you’ve been married for years you will still have pictures of six of your younger cousins cramming into the booth or your great aunt making goofy faces. If you want your guests to be able to mix things up a little, put a basket of props outside the booth that contains mementos from your life with your partner or funny costume pieces.</p>
<p>4. The dollar dance is a time-honored tradition in which guests give a dollar or more in cash to the bride or groom and share a dance with them. This can be a fun way of getting small donations towards your honeymoon or starting your new life with your soon to be spouse.  There is no pressure for guests who don’t want to participate, however, it is a good idea to let them know there will be a dollar dance in the wedding invitation, so that they can decide ahead of time how much they would like to donate.</p>
<p>5. “Marry-oke” otherwise known as wedding karaoke, is a unique and fun way to celebrate your marriage and entertain your guests. Whether your friends and relatives are musically inclined or not this is one form of entertainment that will keep them laughing and having a blast. Depending on what your guests choose to sing, it is likely that several songs will make good dancing songs, so those that aren’t singing will be equally engaged. Most DJ’s will have a wide selection of music so that many guests will find something fun that resonates with them. Be sure you have someone video-taping because you won’t want to forget your uncle singing Britney Spears.</p>
<p>Sarah Danielson writes for BluWiki where you can find <a href="http://bluwiki.com/go/Nutramigen_coupons">Nutramigen Coupons</a> and <a href="http://bluwiki.com/go/Logans_Roadhouse_coupons">Logan&#8217;s Roadhouse Coupons</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>How to Save Money on Wedding Decorations</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/wedding-decorations.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/wedding-decorations.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:32:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=131</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Once you really get into the particulars of planning for your big day, you might start to realize that there are a lot of little details that go into the wedding decorations (for both the ceremony and the reception) and each of them has a cost that quickly adds up to major dollar signs.  Since [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Once you really get into the particulars of planning for your big day, you might start to realize that there are a lot of little details that go into the wedding decorations (for both the ceremony and the reception) and each of them has a cost that quickly adds up to major dollar signs.  Since you’ve already bought the dress, put down payments on the venues, and picked the catering company and professional photographer, you’re going to need to find ways to stick to your budget for the decorations, which means cutting back in some areas.  But don’t fret; there are still plenty of ways to have the beautiful and timeless wedding you’ll remember fondly for the rest of your life, even if you have to save money on the decorations.</p>
<ol>
<li>Flowers.  Unfortunately, there is no really good way to save on fresh-cut flowers and arrangements unless you grow, cut, and arrange them yourself (a definite possibility if you have a green thumb and a summer wedding date).  You definitely don’t want to order online since any mistakes will be beyond repair by the time your blooms arrive.  However, you can save some money and go green at the same time by opting for a virtual garden of recycled paper flowers.  This chic look can be achieved by using colored tissue paper, all white copy paper, or even black and white magazine pages (attached to pipe cleaner or other wire stalks).  Check out the amazing stems at Teddy Manuel or search “paper floral arrangements” on Etsy to get some ideas.</li>
<li>Table settings.  You may be tempted to pay the catering company to provide tablecloths, cloth napkins, plates, glasses, silverware, and so on.  But if you take on this task yourself, you stand to save a lot.  You can opt for paper tablecloths and napkins (some of which are made to look like fabric).  If you’re having a buffet-style service, you can get heavy duty plastic plates, cups, and cutlery in your wedding colors on the cheap.  But if you want to go fancier, consider checking out local thrift stores and garage sales to assemble an eclectic mix of plates, mugs, and silverware sets to use at your wedding.  You’ll save a ton of money on the setting, but you can also package them up as wedding favors for your guests (making them do double duty).</li>
<li>Lighting.  Votive candles are extremely inexpensive and they provide a wonderful, romantic ambiance for your reception.  Nestle them in pebbles on saucers (which you may also be able to find while thrift shopping) or have your friends and relatives help you collect glass bottles (left over from pasta sauce, jelly, etc.), scrub off the labels, and use decoupage glue to adhere multicolored tissue paper to the outside.  Then drop the votives in to create a colorful glow on every table.</li>
<li>Centerpieces.  Many people opt for floral or candle centerpieces and this is certainly an option worth looking into now that you know how to save in these areas.  If you want something different, consider fruit bowls with a selection from the local farmers market.  They’re both beautiful and tasty!</li>
<li>Favors.  You can get pretty elaborate in this area, but if you want to save you should keep it simple.  A couple yards of tulle, a spool of ribbon, a pair of scissors, and a few bags of single-color M&amp;Ms (found at party stores) will give you all you need to create wedding favors for less.</li>
</ol>
<p>Sarah Danielson writes for Totally Money where you can browse through <a href="http://www.totallymoney.com/loans/bad-credit-loans.aspx">loans for bad credit</a> and <a href="http://www.totallymoney.com/loans/">compare loans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Jewelry for Your Summer Wedding</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/summer-jewelry.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/summer-jewelry.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:29:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=128</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most brides stop the style train at the wedding dress depot and then neglect to travel further down the line until their wedding day is almost upon them.  But while hair stylists and makeup artists can do some of the work for you at the last minute, you might be on your own when it [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Most brides stop the style train at the wedding dress depot and then neglect to travel further down the line until their wedding day is almost upon them.  But while hair stylists and makeup artists can do some of the work for you at the last minute, you might be on your own when it comes to selecting jewelry.  And believe it or not, you need to tailor your collection of jewelry to the season as much as you try to pair it with your ensemble.  The main idea with summer weddings, in particular, is not so hard to grasp; you’ll want to choose pieces that are light and airy and won’t overwhelm your outfit or damage your delicate skin (can you imagine the discomfort of having a hunk of metal on your chest in hundred-degree heat?).  Here are just a few pieces you might want to consider.</p>
<ol>
<li>Pearl drop earrings.  These are the standby of many a bride, but they’re especially apropos for the woman that wants to walk down the aisle during the summer months.  They pair well with an up-do (which most women arranging a wedding in June, July, or August will appreciate) and they can be as understated and or overdone as you want.  Girls who wish to capture a timeless look should go for simple, tear-shaped bobs, while more daring brides may want to go for a diamond-and-pearl combo that tops the pearl with a sparkly bow (or some other diamond-encrusted adornment).</li>
<li>Diamond earrings.  If you’re going to wear diamonds near your face on a sunny day, you need to tone it down (or risk ruining the photos or blinding your fiancé).  So go for small studs, diamond-encrusted drops or other designs, or studded hoops (with small stones).  This way you can bring a little glamour to your face without totally distracting from your natural glow.</li>
<li>Tennis bracelet.  If you simply want to avoid the issue of shimmer and shine near your face, place it where it’s less noticeable, like on your wrist.  A modest tennis bracelet will add just the right amount of bling to your ensemble without taking away from your overall look.</li>
<li>Moonstones.  If you’re looking for something that’s a little more exotic than pearls but not quite as eye-catching as diamonds in the summer sun, then moonstones may be exactly what you’re looking for.  Whether you want a bracelet that pairs moonstones and diamonds or a necklace with a small cluster of moonstone beads mixed with balls made from precious metals (gold and white gold), you can have unique jewelry for your wedding that’s somewhere between bland and ostentatious (in terms of both style and price).</li>
<li>Tiara or combs.  Whether you opt for a headpiece that is studded with diamonds or one that is intricately patterned with pearl seed-beads, you’re going to feel like a princess when you don this traditional piece of wedding jewelry.  If you’re not so keen to make a statement with your hair, but you still want some adornment for your ‘do, think about bejeweled combs to complement your coif.  They’re a bit more understated, but still a gorgeous addition to your jewelry collection.</li>
</ol>
<p>Sarah Danielson is a writer for Adiamor <a href="http://www.adiamor.com/">Diamond Engagement Rings</a> where you can find a large selection of loose diamonds, wedding bands, and other fine diamond jewelry.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Wedding Prep: Above-the-Neck Essentials</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/wedding-prep.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/wedding-prep.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:43:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=124</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are so many plans to make when it comes to your wedding that between securing the dress, the venue, flowers, cake, food, a photographer, and everything else, you may get down to the wire before you even start to consider the state of your skin, your smile, and your hair.  What does it matter, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>There are so many plans to make when it comes to your wedding that between securing the dress, the venue, flowers, cake, food, a photographer, and everything else, you may get down to the wire before you even start to consider the state of your skin, your smile, and your hair.  What does it matter, though?  You have a team of stylists to take care of these problems, right?  Wrong!  This is a trap you cannot let yourself fall victim to!  While stylists certainly get paid to make you look your best, you’re going to have problems if you show up for styling appointments with roots an inch long and a face covered in stress-induced acne.  And a less-than-white smile cannot be fixed on the day of your wedding.  For these reasons, it is imperative that you take an active role in ensuring that everything above the neck is as good as it gets before the big day.  Here are just a few ways to get there.</p>
<ol>
<li>Hair care.  You might be tempted to switch to a shampoo and conditioner that provides more body just before the wedding, or perhaps you’ll find that a hot oil treatment or special conditioning is required.  But the worst thing you can do the day before your wedding is mess with your established hair care routine.  If your current regimen isn’t satisfying you, then try new products weeks or even months before the big day so your scalp has time to adjust.  Otherwise you could end up with dandruff or excess oil on your big day.</li>
<li>Cut and color.  Again, try to avoid drastic changes just before the wedding.  Remember that you’re going to have to live with the photos forever.  So just do touch-ups about a week before the big day (trim and/or color) and use the appointment to consult with your hair stylist about the hairdo for the wedding.  Then you’ll both be prepared when the big day comes.</li>
<li>Dermatology.  The state of your skin is extremely important since it could make or break your confidence.  If you suffer from breakouts or other skin problems (scarring, discolored patches, or more serious conditions like rosacea) you should definitely visit a dermatologist weeks or months before the wedding to begin addressing the issues.  As you get closer to the big day, make an appointment for a facial (a few days out), and consider booking a final visit 1-2 days before, just in case you need a cortisone treatment for last-minute pimples.  Having a perfect palette will ensure that your makeup looks flawless all day.</li>
<li>Teeth whitening.  Giving up coffee and using whitening toothpaste for a few months could do the trick when it comes to a bright, white smile, or you may choose to go a little more heavy duty with whitening strips.  But if you suffer from serious stains or discoloration, see your dentist a few months out to arrange for bleaching trays or a laser treatment.</li>
<li>Experiment.  Knowing what you want in the way of hair and makeup can be a challenge, especially if you show up to appointments on your big day with no clue of what you want.  So look through magazines, find a few looks that you like, and try them out at home.  Take photos so that you can flip through and make a decision.  This will also help when you arrive for your styling sessions because you can use a photo to tell your team exactly what you want; or more importantly, exactly what you don’t want.</li>
</ol>
<p>Sarah Danielson writes for <a href="http://www.mintdentalalaska.com/">Anchorage Dentist</a> where you can get the beautiful healthy smile you’ve always dreamed of.</p>
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		<title>DIY Wedding Invitations that Look Great and Cost Less</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/diy-wedding-invitations.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/diy-wedding-invitations.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:30:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[invitations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=122</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You may not think you’re crafty enough to create the personalised wedding cards that you see in professional print shops, but you might be surprised by how much help is out there for the woman who wants to save a few dollars on her wedding invitations.  Why spend extra for the same materials and labor [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>You may not think you’re crafty enough to create the <a href="http://www.lotusartstudio.co.uk/handmade_wedding_cards.html">personalised wedding cards</a> that you see in professional print shops, but you might be surprised by how much help is out there for the woman who wants to save a few dollars on her wedding invitations.  Why spend extra for the same materials and labor that you can easily purchase and attempt on your own?  By adopting a DIY attitude as it pertains to your wedding invitations, you stand to save a lot.  And here are a few tips and tricks that will not only help you to cut costs, but also maximize your time and effort, which probably need to be budgeted just as much as your money.</p>
<ol>
<li>Choose the right paper.  Not all card stock is created equally, but you probably don’t need the most expensive stuff on the market to get the look you want.  You can find a few likely candidates at a nearby craft store; they generally have kits that come with everything you’ll need, from invites to RSVP cards to envelopes.  But you may do better to shop online.  You’ll likely find exactly what you’re looking for at less cost.  And remember that not every printed page needs to be on card stock; you can easily substitute regular printer paper for items like directions and registry information.</li>
<li>Cut back on extras.  Every addition to your card setup will cost you, so slash the unneeded extras.  This would include items like the double envelope (who came up with this ridiculous idea anyway?), jackets or additional layers of paper on the invitation, or over-the-top embellishments that add to the bulk and weight of your package.  Lined envelopes can also go.  It’s an expensive detail that no one will notice, whether it’s there or not.</li>
<li>Save on postage.  Surprisingly, this is one area where you stand to save quite a bit.  You might think that the cost of postage is non-negotiable, and indeed, you can’t haggle with the post office.  But you can ensure that you’ve done nothing to bump the price.  If you keep the weight of each invite under one ounce and you opt for a standard size of envelopes (rather than oversized), you’ll only need one regular stamp for each invitation you send.  You may be wondering about the added cost of postage for the RSVPs, and in this area you can save, as well.  By selecting post cards for RSVP (instead of smaller cards with envelopes) you can save 15 cents on every stamp (and further cut the mailing weight).</li>
<li>Embellish with care.  Every embellishment will cost you, but you can definitely choose less expensive modes of adornment.  For example, you could paste on dried flowers from your garden to beautify invitations for free.  Or you could get a couple of rubber stamps and an ink pad and go to town.  You may even want to get busy with the hole-punch and a spool of ribbon to add lightweight bows.  All of these ideas and more may add to your card without significantly increasing your cost.</li>
<li>Go paperless.  The best and cheapest solution is to modernize the whole operation by sending out Evites.  These paperless cards are absolutely free and they’re definitely the best option for anyone who wants to go green.  Plus, you don’t have to wait forever for snail mail; you’ll know instantly when someone RSVPs.</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Another British Wedding</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/another-british-wedding.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/another-british-wedding.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jun 2011 03:35:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=119</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The wedding of Kate and William was, undoubtedly, the highlight in 2011. It is said to have provided people with much-needed joy and celebration in a time of austerity and gloom. I remember another such event, so long ago but never-to-be-forgotten by those of us who were there. It must have been 1944/45, when the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>The wedding of Kate and William was, undoubtedly, the highlight in 2011.  It is said to have provided people with much-needed joy and celebration in a time of austerity and gloom.</p>
<p>I remember another such event, so long ago but never-to-be-forgotten by those of us who were there.</p>
<p>It must have been 1944/45, when the Americans came.  We children were thrilled &#8211; chewing gum and candy for us, nylons for the older girls. Our neighbour, thinking of her own two sons far away from home, welcomed them into her small terraced house together with members of the British Forces also looking for a kind smile and a good meal.</p>
<p>I remember sitting half-way up their stairs, gazing down into the narrow passage, where a noisy crocodile of laughing people did the conga, from the back door through the two rooms to the front.  I was ten years old.</p>
<p>It was on such a night that Mary met Carl.  It was a whirlwind romance and the words &#8216;GI bride&#8217; entered our vocabulary.</p>
<p>It was a time of extreme shortages but preparations for the wedding went ahead in a fever of excitement.</p>
<p>My mother was determined to provide the young couple with useful household items.  Big linen flour sacks, begged from the grocer, were washed, unpicked, bleached and re-sewn into sheets, pillow-cases, tablecloths.</p>
<p>There had to be a cake.  Everyone wanted to help.  Mrs.Evans gave some butter, Mrs.Davies found a tin of treacle on her pantry shelf,  Harry Smith brought eggs from his hens.</p>
<p>I remember the smell of that cake, cooking for hours, until it emerged large and brown.  My father iced it, patiently sieving sugar into a bowl until it was smooth.  He used some drops of cochineal from a bottle that had been in the cupboard for years, to make tiny pink roses around the edge.  I remember cleaning the icing pump, my little finger scooping out remains of unbelievable sweetness.</p>
<p>Mary had acquired some parachute silk and Mrs. Brown, our local dressmaker, worked miracles transforming it into a long, shining dress.  A piece of net curtain, boiled and starched, made a pretty veil held in place by a string of pearls borrowed from my grandmother.</p>
<p>There were three bridesmaids &#8211;  Mary&#8217;s sister in their mother&#8217;s blue brocade ballgown, my cousin in her aunt&#8217;s pink taffeta and Mary&#8217;s best friend in a dress of lilac tulle with circular bands of coloured satin which had last appeared on the stage in our amateur operatic show.  They looked lovely with coronets of twisted ribbon on their heads and bunches of violets in their hands.</p>
<p>I remember that wedding as if it were yesterday.  We walked in our Sunday best to the chapel decorated with white marguerites<br />
to match Mary&#8217;s bouquet &#8211; all from Bert Brown&#8217;s garden.  Carl looked handsome in his beige American uniform.  The women sniffed and dabbed their eyes as he placed the ring on Mary&#8217;s thin finger.</p>
<p>Our only village taxi brought the newly-weds back for, what seemed to us to be a feast.</p>
<p>It was a fairy tale and, for that one special day, we all felt like Royalty.</p>
<p>Joy James lives in South Wales and works for Barafundle CDs, a company producing <a href="http://www.barafundle.com">personalised story CDs</a>. She has three children and eight grandchildren and also writes in her spare time.</p>
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		<title>Finding a Qualified Videographer</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/videographer.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/videographer.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 May 2011 13:49:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[videographer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[videography]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=117</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You’ve planned everything down to the last detail: your dress is fitted to perfection, the flowers have been selected, the cake is like a slice of heaven, and you’ve finally figured out where everyone is going to sit so that both hurt feelings and family feuds can be avoided.  In short, the preparations for your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>You’ve planned everything down to the last detail: your dress is fitted to perfection, the flowers have been selected, the cake is like a slice of heaven, and you’ve finally figured out where everyone is going to sit so that both hurt feelings and family feuds can be avoided.  In short, the preparations for your special day are well underway.</p>
<p>Now there’s just one last thing to attend to, and it may be the most important in the long run; it’s time to find an amazing videographer to capture your entire day and immortalize it on film.  But you’re a little nervous about the prospect of hiring a stranger.</p>
<p>You certainly don’t want to let your brother hold the camera, but you’ve heard the horror stories of people who have been scammed out of thousands of dollars only to have the cameraman flake, or worse, show up but never deliver the footage.  How can you be sure you’re hiring someone qualified to take on this heavy responsibility?</p>
<p>Here are just a couple of ways to ensure that you get the videographer (and the video) you want so that you can revisit the biggest day of your life for the rest of your life.</p>
<ol>
<li>Look over portfolios.  The best way to ensure that you get the video you want is to look at a portfolio or demo reel.  You can’t hope to determine if a videographer is qualified without seeing his previous work.  And frankly, even someone who is a professional with tons of experience simply may not offer the aesthetic you’re going for.  You need to find a style that fits your sensibilities rather than just hiring a name.</li>
<li>Ask for referrals.  One of the best ways to ensure that you’re getting quality goods and services without the worry of problems is to take referrals.  This doesn’t necessarily mean you should ask the videographer for references.  He could easily provide you with names and numbers of cohorts if he is running some kind of scam.  Instead, ask family, friends, coworkers, and other trusted acquaintances who they have used.  By going with a trusted source, you can be sure of finding someone fantastic who will deliver.</li>
<li>Don’t cheap out.  Most brides are working with a pretty tight budget, but this is one area where you shouldn’t skimp.  There are plenty of people out there advertising lower prices, but you’re going to sacrifice quality.  Since this video will be with you for the rest of your life to remind you of your wedding day, you want it to be perfect.  So spend a little more for someone with experience and a proven track record of happy clients.</li>
<li>Go local.  It’s surprising how many people are willing to import photographers based on their online portfolios (without ever meeting them in some cases).  But this only increases your odds of something going wrong.  What if their plane is delayed?  Or they simply decide to take on a higher-paying job somewhere else?  Hiring within your community provides a better assurance of accountability because you can show up at their doorstep to complain or even lambast them to the community that supports their business.  So it’s in their best interest to deliver.</li>
<li>Insist on a contract.  Without a contract for service and payment, you have little legal recourse should something go wrong.  Of course, financial restitution is no substitute for capturing your memories on film, but it will sting less if you don’t have to pay for something you never got.  And it might just keep your videographer on the straight and narrow.</li>
</ol>
<p>Sarah Danielson writes for <a href="http://www.dvdcopycat.com/">CD Duplicaton San Francisco </a> which offers <a href="http://www.dvdcopycat.com/blu-ray/">blu-ray replication</a> and an array of other video related services.</p>
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		<title>Use Boxing to Get Your Wedding-Ready Body</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/boxing-workout.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/boxing-workout.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 May 2011 19:41:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=115</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The notion of boxing may seem a little intimidating to the average woman looking to get in shape for her big day.  But you don’t actually have to get in the ring in order to take advantage of the workout that helps boxers prepare to win a belt.  In fact, it’s a lot more basic [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>The notion of boxing may seem a little intimidating to the average woman looking to get in shape for her big day.  But you don’t actually have to get in the ring in order to take advantage of the workout that helps boxers prepare to win a belt.  In fact, it’s a lot more basic than you might imagine.</p>
<p>While you could certainly try to sign up with a trainer at a boxing gym, most of them are looking to train pros that they can promote (which is probably a few levels above what you’re looking for).  And you can always check out your local gym, but you’re a lot more likely to find kickboxing classes than their more staid brethren.</p>
<p>Your last option for professional help may be to hire a personal trainer, but the truth is you can do a lot of this workout on your own, with no aid whatsoever.  By finding a standard boxing workout routine online (and tailoring it to your needs), you can have the slim and toned body you want well before the bells ring and you walk down the aisle.  Here are a few components you should include.</p>
<ol>
<li>Cardio.  This is a bigger part of boxing than you may imagine and luckily, it doesn’t require any equipment whatsoever.  The majority of boxers engage in both jogging and jumping rope (although you don’t actually need a rope to reap the benefits of this exercise).  So if you’re a little unsure about some other components of the boxing workout, at least get started with the cardio so you can start shedding pounds in preparation to get cut.</li>
<li>Strength training/conditioning.  This is the other side of the cardio coin.  Losing weight will only get you so far and then you need to start toning your muscles.  This means push-ups, pull-ups, squats, crunches, and so on.  And the only one you can’t do without equipment is the pull-ups (for which you’ll need a sturdy bar).  So again, this part of the workout is feasible for anyone.  And you’ll be amazed by how fast you start to see results in some of your biggest problems areas like your underarms, back, and belly.</li>
<li>Punching.  If you think that this type of exercise dominates the <a href="http://www.boxfituk.com/">boxing equipment</a> workout routine, you would be right.  Punching is what it’s all about and you need to make sure you’re doing it right so that you avoid injury and get maximum results.  To that end, you’ll either need a trainer who knows what he’s doing or you’ll have to go online and search for videos.  If you’re not sure about the free fare, purchase a training DVD.  You want to make sure you get it right.</li>
<li>Bag work.  Once you get into the groove, you should think about adding some boxing equipment to your regimen.  A punching bag is a good start, and you can usually get heavy bags that rest on a base rather than hanging from your ceiling (and potentially causing damage).  You may also want a speed bag to get that added emphasis on the tricep area (which is often a trouble zone for women).</li>
<li>Using a partner.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  At some point, you’ll want to try out your sweet moves with a moving target (to get some footwork going), so see if you can get a bridesmaid or your soon-to-be husband on board to wear the mitts and take some hits.  If you’re a good sport, you might trade places and help your partner train as well.</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Shopping and Saving for An Engagement Ring</title>
		<link>http://kcweddings.net/engagement-ring.html</link>
		<comments>http://kcweddings.net/engagement-ring.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 Apr 2011 13:21:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wedding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kcweddings.net/?p=112</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Once you&#8217;ve decided you want to marry your significant other, the first step is to pick out a suitable ring to match their style and taste. To avoid disappointment, some couple will shop for rings together. However, if you&#8217;re more traditional, shopping for the ring before your proposal is priority. Either way, jewelry stores and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Once you&#8217;ve decided you want to marry your significant other, the first step is to pick out a suitable ring to match their style and taste. To avoid disappointment, some couple will shop for rings together. However, if you&#8217;re more traditional, shopping for the ring before your proposal is priority. Either way, jewelry stores and retailers can be intimidating, if you are not sure what you need. There is plenty of time to be overwhelmed with details while you&#8217;re planning the wedding, so you want to make the process of picking the ring the least complicated task.</p>
<p>One of the main problems a buyer encounters on the quest for an engagement ring is choosing a price range. You don&#8217;t want the ring to be so expensive that other areas of the wedding experience will suffer, but you don&#8217;t want to skimp on options or styles. The traditional estimate was two months salary, but couples can now make their own rules about the amount they feel comfortable spending. Start by evaluating your monthly expenses, and how much you already have set aside for a ring. You have to be honest with yourself about the amount you can afford to avoid lengthy payment plans.</p>
<p>Once you&#8217;ve decided on a budget, you need to narrow down the different options for a ring based on your bracket. Here are a couples of questions to consider when you are deciding on the style of the ring.</p>
<p>- Modern style or traditional</p>
<p>- Type of stones or colors</p>
<p>- Engraving</p>
<p>While it may seems like a simple task once you start looking, knowing what you need already will help store representatives offer selections, so you don&#8217;t have to waste precious time. From <a href="http://www.titaniumstyle.com/inlaid-titanium-rings.htm">titanium inlay rings</a> to yellow diamond rings, there will be plenty of beautiful options, but you don&#8217;t want to be distracted from your planned goal.</p>
<p>Make sure to ask the representatives questions to learn about the clarity and carats you can afford on your budget. There is the option to build your own ring from the setting to the stone, if you aren&#8217;t finding what you want on the market. Before buying a ring ask the representative for the diamond grading reports from GIA or American Gem Society. It will have an evaluation for the color, cut, clarity, and carat, which will let you know you are getting what you pay for.</p>
<p>Remember, shopping for a ring should be fun and you shouldn&#8217;t feel obligated to go alone. Take a friend along to help scour the options for the perfect choice. When you propose, you want to have the ring that represents the love that you have and plan to give for the rest of your life.</p>
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