Affordable cocktail outfits 2012 for the youthful girls

We normally phone call for to think about element in numerous kinds of parties, that consist of the cocktail celebration which could be so standard for the youthful girls and boys. people nowadays whatsoever instances desire to acquire jointly with their most beneficial pals and talk with each and every other. They founded on in stunning outfits to create them welcome and charming, especially the youthful girls. The boys desire to acquire handsome to acquire the opportunity to day with among the the stunning girls. as well as the girls can be the same. All of them desire to show their most beneficial element to others. So, how girls find their dresses? right listed here are some affordable cocktail outfits 2011 for the youthful girls to create a selection.

cocktail dress

People who founded on the formal outfits from morning to evening may maybe desire to create a alter within their outfit, for example, the casual cocktail outfits will make your wishes take place true. The tiny modifications can provide huge direct to your figure and personalities. You can possess a try. even although you are determining over a cocktail attire for the coming cocktail parties, you can seek recommendations from away from your pals as well as your family people to possess information inside the design inside the outfits you fit. right listed here are some important recommendations to suit your needs to locate the most perfect flora dress.


Some formal cocktail outfits may maybe be treated since the prom outfits which you can founded on to stroll on red-colored carpet or some other occasions. glimpse at this cocktail attire which could be produced from chiffon. The floral one shoulder is so specific and exquisite. The asymmetrical waist accompanied with some ruffles will create a tremendous variation in your very good whole body figure. The special cable tv hem shirt design is complete of imaginative ideas. The design is so wonderful. I am good you will adore it.

Some other stunning types that consist of the sweetheart, halter neck and strapless may maybe be also wonderful. The sweetheart getting a sequined bodice is dazzling in not merely the design but in inclusion the colour.


The cocktail dress is probably along with the foremost adaptable of all special day looks along with the smartest thing concerning them have been that you don't even ought to drink so as to wear it. the catwalks in London, New York, Paris and Milan has been awash with a whole plethora of cocktail dresses. the year 2011 has taken to cocktail dresses with gusto. They work as ideal option for an urbane wedding or classy drinks party. think of a cocktail dress be able to never do all the magic itself. This could have been exactly very important to match the dress during the perfect chic updo. If you will find all those twists and turns too complex to master in the home, just choose on a high ponytail twisted and pinned as a perfect accompaniment for a gorgeous outfit. Do not forget to include a das of color on your lips and do up up your eyes a bit. Remember never to overdo both opt.

Advice about Choosing a Proper Cocktail Dress

Cocktail party maybe is the most popular event for girls and young ladies because of the comfortable and free environment. Here, girls can talk about whatever that they are interested in, such as shopping, fashion, clothes and gossips. Besides, a dance party is a good place for girls to show themselves. Compared to some prom dresses 2012, little party skirts are better to show good assets for girls. 

Girls are usually confused what to choose from various styles of cheap cocktail dresses. Actually they are some rules for girls to select these clothes. I believe you will look so beautiful and charming in the party if you follow these rules.

The first tip is so easy that everyone will tell you no matter what style of clothes you buy, and that is to know your body shape. It is no need to tell you how much important of knowing the body type because every girl knows it. Buy the cocktail dress that will flatter your body shape. If you do not know which one suit you best, try A-line style of skirts, which suits for almost every body pattern.

cocktail dress

Then what you should consider is the budget. Making sure the limit is very important. If you want to buy inexpensive cocktail dress, online shop is the best choice. Buy it in some shops that have a high reputation with reasonable prices. Or you can communicate with the salespeople for a discount. Then consider what event you will attend. Then make sure what style of evening gowns you should wear. Know the atmosphere and environment that the party will have. Then you will choose the proper skirt easily.

Consider the color. Every girl wants to choose good colors for the party. And they will choose bright colored cocktail attires because these colors are quite sparkling. Indeed, bright colors like red, blue, yellow and gold will help you shine in the party and become the center of attention. However, if you want to show a simple image, choosing a simple or basic color is more appropriate. In addition, a basic color cocktail skirt can be worn more than once if you choose different but shiny accessories. Kill two birds with one stone.

The last thing is asking others for help or consults others for advice. You can ask your friends before you buy your party wear, or you can go shopping with them. You also can ask the salespeople for help. They usually give good ideas, such as accessories and embellishments. Although they do not know you, they will give you the good choices. They are many fashionable cocktail dresses this season of 2012, and if search for the internet, you will find numerous styles. Pick out one and wear it to the party, you will draw everyone's attention.

Tips to Purchase Those Unusual Bridesmaid Gifts

Bridesmaids gifts are something a lot more like a design template already. Whenever we consider these things quite a few modest ornaments already spring to mind. Some of these tend to be collectible figurines, medical spa products, shoes, key rings, shopping bags, baggage, backless wedding dresses, scarves, and the like. Come to think of it, are these our best decisions? Is there a desire to make these gifts completely from scratch just so they may appear to be individual rather than similar to a process taken out of your regular wedding retail store holder? Is there not just a store that sells bridesmaid gifts? Of course there is no need for them to be really rare that they would begin looking weird. They only just must be very different. Like it is a thing in no way made in huge amounts. Therefore for anybody visiting this blog who might be likely to get some concepts on steps to make a bridesmaid gift item phenomenal here are some thoughts.

bridesmaid dresses

Bask in the name game.

There is nothing that is likely to make it additional different if the name of the bridesmaid is certainly customized or even printed on the gift item. For example take a normal sandals. It is just a matter of including something seriously isn't included in the normal types which might be noticed in sales. Like this you may create it appear unique. If it is a rabbit slipper you are going to provide, add a little more creativeness by embroidering your friend's name on it. If it is beach flip flops that may be in mind then add several shells or plastic flowers and leaves close to it. This can even be something may very well be made into an anklet.

Snap shots that assert a thousand words.

In case you are supplying something which is unquestionably inside the list of gift-templates on this planet, like a image frame, you'll be able to make it less ordinary by personalizing it. Rather than just offering a nondescript picture frame you might incorporate a photograph of you and your valuable relation who may be also the recipient of the gift item within it. By means of this it would be an incredibly particular present you are supplying to a person seriously valuable to your heart. This idea may also be placed on tshirts, bags plus any surface that you might want to get your pics imprinted on.

Jewelry exclusive for her.

Ladies enjoy having and to put on jewellery and various kinds of components. Probably here is the most suitable of the common gifts that a bridesmaid can acquire. However, you can make it into a type of bridesmaid gifts by engraving her name on it. This can be described as a quite popular notion already when you include a special message along with her name it will make a significant difference.

Bear in mind that offering presents doesn't have to leave you bankrupt.There's also no reason to end up being desperate in relation to them as long as they do not seem to be special enough. What you only have to do is to try to develop a way that is likely to make your bridesmaid treasure the gift item. Each bridesmaid possesses a completely different strategy for liking. It will be advisable to consider carefully first in order to generate bridesmaid gifts that happen to be bound to become adored.

A Bridesmaids Duty

No wedding is complete without Bridesmaids. Apart from looking gorgeous in the photographs – though never upstaging the bride, Bridesmaids perform functions that have been set in stone by superstition.

bridesmaid dresses

For instance, did you know that the bride is traditionally dressed by her Bridesmaids on her wedding day?

Another important task allotted to Bridesmaids is to act as kind of bodyguards. It is a duty of the Bridesmaids to accompany the bride to the church, in order to protect her from being whisked away by the groom’s rivals. As if!

Bridesmaids should be briefed before entering the church not to stumble whilst walking down the aisle. Why? Because superstition states a Bridesmaid who does so will be a spinster unless she catches the bride’s bouquet in the future. No pressure, then ...

What’s more, the bridesmaids’ bouquets  – as well as those carried by the bride and decorating the church – are signs of happiness.

And the Matron of Honour is said to represent the benefits of married life.
The giving and exchanging of not only rings, but gifts, is a key element of any wedding. Apart from the presents given to set the married couple up in their marital home, it is traditional for the bride and groom to give gifts to the wedding party, to thank each memeber for the role they played. These gifts – or ‘favours’, are usually given during the groom’s speech.

Need inspiration on the Bridesmaid-giving front? Then read on or go straight to The Gift Experience website for some great wedding gift ideas.

Little Bridesmaids will treasure their favours for years, so choose carefully. A Sterling Silver Bridesmaid Charm Bracelet, Bridesmaid Sterling Silver Heart on a Chain, or Cross Pendant in a personalised gift box will give guaranteed, long-lasting delight.

If your young Bridesmaids are into soft toys, then a Bridesmaid Message Bear will become her new best friend for life.

The mature Bridesmaid will adore a Single Crystal Champagne Flute in which to down her bubbly. A Silver Plated Compact Mirror and Atonomiser Gift Set, or even a Lipstick Holder with Mirror, perfect for touch-ups whilst circulating, would be equally well received.

A Personalised Photo Frame or Wedding Album will give your Bridesmaid a permanent reminder of the role she played on your big day. Or opt for a Personalised Bridal Party Memory Box in which to store her memories.

Another winning idea is a minimalist Heart Trinket Box, engraved with a message of your choice – as is a glamorous Bridesmaid church Candle, beautifully wrapped and personalised with your Brideamaid’s role, name, the date of your wedding.
Alternatively, fill a pretty Crystal Perfume Bottle with her favourite fragrance, then engrave it for the X-factor. Or give her a personalised Silver Plated Jewellery Box in which to keep her bling.

A Crystal Wine Bottle Coaster, accompanied by a bottle of her favourite plonk and enveloped in luxurious wrapping, is the ideal solution for a Bridesmaid who enjoys a glass at the end of a hard day at the office.

And if you prefer to stick with tradition, then a simple Cross Pendant inside a Personalised Gift Box will fit the bill perfectly.
MJ

The Man Repeller Got Married!

Leandra Medine, The Man Repeller, didn’t disappoint her fashion followers when she got married last week at the St. Regis. The luxurious New York City venue was the perfect backdrop for the blogger’s “Midnight In Paris” theme.

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She wore a one-shoulder tulle Marchesa gown, that was the longer version of Miranda Kerr’s Met Gala gown at last year’s event. The gown was a bit unexpected for Medine, but she wore a white satin moto jacket by Rebecca Minkoff to match down the aisle. She accessorized her wedding day look with chunky bracelets, bedazzled silver platform sneakers, and a pastel floral crown. The sneakers were even initialed with “L.M.” and “A.C.” for her new hubby, Abe Cohen- the one that she couldn’t repel!

Her bridesmaids wore a variety of pastel shades and styles in mint green, light pink, and light yellow, with crowns to match.

As the for the cake? Word on the street is that there wasn’t one! We think Medine wanted a new Celine bag instead…

Congrats, L.M. & A.C.!

Jessa Pulls A Zuckerberg: Surprise Wedding On Girls Finale!

The “mystery party” on Sunday night’s season finale of HBO’s Girls transformed quickly into Jessa’s impromptu wedding(flora dress) to middle-aged business man, Thomas John. The free (or, lost) spirit sent a text message invite ordering the gang to attend the party of the year.

debut dress 2012

As friends arrived… Surprise! The ceremony unfolded and John began to recite his vows. He spoke of the night he met Jessa (just two weeks ago!), when he begged her and Marnie for a threesome. Romance was in the air.

Complete with the awkwardness and dysfunction we LOVE, the party was memorable and fantastic. Jessa’s “bohemian” wedding day style complimented the Brooklyn atmosphere, music, and desserts – macaroons and cupcakes were among the many.

We cannot wait to see what Season 2 brings to Hannah, Shoshanna, Marnie, & Jessa.

But, these girls are not the only one’s planning surprise weddings these days. Don’t forget about Mark Zuckerberg’s surprise nuptials to long-time girlfriend, Priscilla Chan!

Honeymoon Planning: Booking Your Romantic Room

After months of stress and hours of dancing, an indulgent hotel room or suite is just what the doctor ordered for post-nuptial R&R. Whether you're eyeing a wedding-night nest or honeymoon(gowns for debut) hideaway, here are some tips to book your love lair. (For ideas in specific cities, peruse our top bridal suite picks for Atlanta, Colorado, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle, plus honeymoon destination articles -- too numerous to list! -- on The Knot.)

wedding dress 2012

Knot Note: Consider booking a simple, inexpensive room for your wedding night if you plan on stumbling in at 3 a.m. so you don't waste money on amenities you won't have time to enjoy.

When to Book
Book a room as soon as you've committed to a reception location. It's not a matter of missing out on the mid-range rooms -- those are often last to go -- but the luxe suites and budget beds that you have to worry about.

How to Book
When you call to make a reservation, be sure to mention that you're booking the room for your wedding night or honeymoon, then remind the desk clerk the day before you arrive. You may get a free upgrade.
If possible, call the hotel directly for this special occasion instead of using a toll-free reservations number. Customer service reps for an 800-number may never have been to the hotel you're calling about, and may not be able to tell you which room has the best view or what promotions and packages are offered at a specific location.
Have you been using a credit card to charge wedding expenses? Now is the time to redeem frequent flyer miles or membership points for the hotel-room upgrade of your dreams. Call your credit card company and ask about hotel partnerships, allow plenty of time for miles or points to be transferred, and remember that blackout dates may apply.
If there's a possibility that you'll arrive later than a hotel's check-in time -- or don't want to be tied to arriving at a specific time -- guarantee your room with a credit card. Be sure to also get the name of the person who takes your reservation and your confirmation number, in case there is a discrepancy when you arrive.

Questions to Ask
Do you have a "romance" package?
An add-on package can enhance your trip and spare you some stress. Not only does it pull together indulgences that you don't have to worry about organizing -- such as a chilled bottle of champagne and fresh flowers in your room when you arrive - but some also take care of headaches such as tips and airport transfers.
Evaluate a package based on whether it will save you money (how does the price compare if you'd paid for each item a la carte) and on your interest in what's included -- complimentary breakfast is a waste, for example, if you normally only have a cup of coffee in the morning or you have to leave for the airport before breakfast is served. Check honeymoon destination articles on The Knot for hotel romance package details.
Knot Note: Be sure to check on the quality of items included -- a bottle of Andre may not be the "champagne" you envisioned, for instance. If a meal is included, ask if the menu is limited and which alcoholic beverages are covered, if any.

Which room is… farthest from the pool? Closest to the beach?
The location of your room on a hotel's property can have a huge influence on how much you enjoy your stay. If you seek a quiet escape, choose a room far from pools (which may have live -- read: loud! -- outdoor entertainment at night), restaurants, the casino or disco. The only dig may be the lengthy stroll you'll take to eat and spa.
Knot Note: Corner rooms are usually farthest from heavily trafficked areas.) Conversely, party animals may want to request a room in the middle of the action for easy access.
If possible, scope out the rooms ahead of time. If not, pump the hotel's front desk for information and request a room, room category, or room block that fits your bill best. (Unfortunately, most hotels will not guarantee a specific room but will do their best to honor requests. Putting your request in writing helps.)


Issues to Consider
Kids: If you'd rather not be belly-flopped by five-year-olds in the pool or serenaded by a tired baby's scream at dinner, think about staying at an adults-only resort or B&B. At big resorts that allow kids, ask whether there are any adults-only pools or restaurants.
Checkout Time: Ask about the checkout time and whether there's a later option. The morning after your wedding you'll likely be exhausted and want to sleep in as long as possible, and then enjoy a leisurely brunch before you have to pack up. If your room is not booked the following night, you may be able to negotiate a checkout as late as 4 p.m.
The Rub-a-Dub-Dub Tub: After a night of heady celebration, a relaxing dip a deux is just the ticket for sore feet. Inquire about a room with a Jacuzzi-jet bathtub or a deep tub that's big enough for two.
The Bed: For your first night together as a married couple, nothing but a king-size bed will do! (Also make sure you're not getting two twin-size beds pushed together to create a king.)
Room Service: Is it available? What are the hours? Even though you paid handsomely for that reception caterer, you may be able to squeeze in just a bite here and there between greeting and dancing. Make sure room service is available late or, if you're not hungry, at least reserve breakfast for the next morning the night before.

What to Pack
When it comes to aphrodisiacs, you might not need any fuel for the first night, but it's nice to tote a few toys along for the honeymoon.
If you're traveling to your honeymoon destination the day after the wedding, pack for your trip in advance and keep a change of clothes in your carry-on so that you can still have a great first day or night if your luggage disappears for a few hours. Don't forget a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and swimsuit so that you can take a cool dip and freshen up once you arrive at your hotel.

Honeymoon Planning: Best Honeymoon Weather by Wedding Month

Is choosing a honeymoon(bridal gowns online shop) spot making you dizzy? There are a number of ways to narrow down your choices, depending on whether beautiful weather, cost, or sightseeing is your first priority. Great weather and optimal sightseeing opportunities -- as well as high room rates and more crowds (reserve early!) -- often go hand in hand during a destination's high season. (Low season is when seasonal businesses -- restaurants and island ferries, for example -- shut down and attractions may close for renovations.)

gowns for debut

If high season perks are what you seek for your once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, we'll tell you where to go to find the best weather or, if you have your heart set on a specific place, what to expect during that month.
A destination's high -- or busy -- season usually coincides with an area's best weather, but it can also determined solely by demand. High season in Hawaii and the Caribbean, where the weather doesn't change that dramatically, runs from January to April simply because people from colder climes flock to their sunny beaches to flee the winter chill. Conversely, Disney World is packed in the summer despite the searing heat because kids are out of school.
If cost is your first priority, check the "When to Go" section of our destination articles for low season months (best prices) and read our 15 budget honeymoon tips, no matter the season!

Weather by Date
First, a month-by-month guide to the best weather where and when, excerpted from Lucy Hone's The Good Honeymoon Guide (Trail Blazer Publications). Get more details about a destination's year-round weather from a travel guidebook or by calling its tourism board (find phone numbers and/or websites at www.towd.com). Just before you go, be sure to check the forecast at a weather website such as weather.com to help you pack.
Remember that this is a guide to when different destinations traditionally experience the most ideal weather of the year. The months immediately preceding and succeeding a destination's prime time are often called "shoulder" seasons, and usually have good weather as well. Other destinations, such as the Caribbean and Hawaii, are temperate year-round, but particularly incredible at the times listed below.

January & February
Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bali, Belize, Brazil, Canada (ski destinations), Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Maldives, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, the Florida Keys, USA (ski destinations)

March
Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Canada (ski destinations), Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Maldives, Mexico, Morocco, the Florida Keys, USA (ski destinations, Southeast, Southwest)


April
Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Italy, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Spain, the Florida Keys, USA

May
Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Britain, Canada, Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Czech Republic, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Ireland, Italy, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand, the Florida Keys, USA

June
Bermuda, Brazil, Britain, Canada, Central & South Africa, Czech Republic, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Ireland, Italy, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand, USA (Alaska, Northeast)

July & August
Bermuda, Brazil, Britain, Canada, Central & South Africa, Czech Republic, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Ireland, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Seychelles, Thailand, USA (Alaska, Northeast)

September
Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Britain, Canada, Central & South Africa, Czech Republic, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand, USA

October
Australia, Bali, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Central & South Africa, Egypt, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Italy, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Seychelles, Spain, USA

November
Australia, Bahamas, Bali, Belize, Brazil, Canada (ski destinations), Central & South Africa, Egypt, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Seychelles, Spain, USA (ski destinations, Southeast, Southwest)

December
Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bali, Belize, Brazil, Canada (ski destinations), Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, the Florida Keys, USA (ski destinations)

Europe: England - London | Palaces, Punk & a Pint of Ale

Imagine this: You're on your honeymoon, walking hand in hand along the Thames. Nipping into a pub for a pint. Losing yourself in the back streets of the city -- all the while pretending you are in one of those terribly romantic English movies where everything is oh-so-intense because of the War.

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Or, imagine this: You're on your honeymoon, seeing hot new plays, eating in hip restaurants, and nuzzling the night away in funky jazz clubs.
If either scenario appeals to you, then London may be your perfect honeymoon spot. Sure, most people don't think of London first when they think romance (the city doesn't exactly scream L-O-V-E, like Paris or Rome), but it is definitely a fun, relaxing place to visit. You can take the subway or train straight from the airport into the center of town, the money is easy to figure out, and absolutely everyone speaks English (sort of).

Sleeping
London isn't cheap, but you can get some deals. Check out the vacation packages offered by the major airlines.

Getting Around
Walk. London is a hoofing-it kind of place.
Ride the subways and buses (definitely sit on the top deck of the bus) after buying a travelcard, which you can use for both, from one of the London Underground Stations.
Take cabs. Unlike everywhere else in the world, the drivers of London's cabs know where they are going and very rarely rip you off.

Eating
Restaurants are dramatically better now than they were just a few years ago, and you won't find better South Asian on this side of the Atlantic. For you java junkies, Seattle-type coffee places are springing up everywhere -- you no longer need to worry about finding a nice double latte.

Must-Dos
The British Museum -- incredible collection. Covent Garden and Soho -- great shops and restaurants. The Houses of Parliament (Big Ben) -- sheer beauty and history. If you are short of time definitely pass on the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace -- both are underwhelming.

Europe: Belgium - Brugge | Sidewalk Cafes, Bakeries & Boutiques

While there are many places in Europe to honeymoon(floral gowns), what better place to follow a picture-perfect wedding than the storybook town of Brugge? (It's pronounced "Broo-zh.") Like something out of a fairy tale, this well-preserved medieval Belgian town seems stuck in a time warp, with a romantic ambience that has inspired artists and writers for centuries.

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Tree-lined cobblestone streets(debut dress 2012) lead to arched bridges over winding canals. A belfry towers over the main square. Centuries-old buildings encircle it, housing treasures that illustrate the culture and history of this beautiful Flemish city.

Bakeries and boutiques, shops selling famous Belgian lace and chocolate, and outdoor cafes are interspersed with beautiful old hotels, many right on the canals. It would be difficult to visit here and not succumb to the city's charms. Brugge is a city for falling -- and being -- in love.

What To Do
From the 13th through the 15th century, Brugge flourished as one of the main trading centers in northern Europe -- until the River Zwin silted up, cutting off access to the North Sea. As commerce and population decreased and moved to another Belgian city, Antwerp, Brugge settled into a decline. It wasn't until the start of the 20th century that the city began a return to its former glory. Today, tourists from around the world come to see the preserved architecture and monuments of the city known as the "Venice of the North."
The "Grote Markt," or Market Square, is the center of Brugge and an excellent place to begin exploring the city. On one end stands the Belfry of Brugge, with its world-famous carillon bells that toll on the quarter hour. Built in the 1200s, this tower provides an incredible view of the city and the surrounding area, but you must climb 366 circular stone steps to reach the top. If you can't hack that trip, you can still enjoy the sight of this impressive structure from all over Brugge, letting it guide you back to the center of town if you lose your sense of direction.

At the base of the Belfry is a building called the Halles, which houses the Brugge Tourist Information Office. Wander around the square to the Provincial Palace, where the government offices of West Flanders are located, and to the Cranenburg, a small building where Maximilian of Austria was imprisoned during the 1400s.

Next to Market Square is the Burg, another large square containing the Town Hall of Brugge, the oldest town hall in Belgium. Step into the Palace of Justice to view Belgian court proceedings. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, containing a holy relic -- a cloth said to be soaked with the blood of Christ. While it can only be viewed on Friday mornings, the building has impressive Romanesque architecture and is worth a stop anytime.
After visiting these two squares, you'll want to spend a day exploring the Dijver, a street with museums full of Belgian treasures. The Groninge Museum houses the Flemish Primitive works of artists such as Rogier Van der Weyden, Van Eyck, Memling, and Hugo Van der Goes. The Arents Museum contains oil paintings, china, silver, pewter, and ink sketchings illustrating the history of Brugge. The Gruuthuse is a palace where nobles serving the Dukes of Burgundy lived. The final of the four Dijver museums on is housed within the Hospital of St. John, a charitable hospital preserved from the 12th century. Inside, the Memling Museum displays six of Hans Memling's magnificent paintings. The most efficient (and cheapest!) way to see these museums is to buy a combination pass at your first stop.
Across from the Memling Museum is the Church of Our Lady, a Gothic structure housing the only Michelangelo statue to permanently leave Italian soil. Nearby, St. Saviour's Cathedral, the headquarters of the Bishop of Brugge, has a seven-room museum and an incredible tower.
Strolling the city streets will lead you past quaint old homes, guild headquarters, convents, churches, and other architectural treasures. A short walk from the center of town will take you to the Minnewater Park, full of graceful trees and walking paths, park benches and all things green. Stop and sit by the Lake of Love, serene and ethereal -- complete with swans.

Legend has it that during the period when Maximilian of Austria was imprisoned in Brugge, his advisor, Pieter Lanchals, was decapitated. Lanchals is similar to the Dutch word for long neck. When Maximilian was freed, he ordered the city to keep swans in the canals forever. The legend may be a bit too graphic, but the Lake of Love is one of the most romantic spots in the city -- a perfect place for honeymooners to dream about their happy future!

Eating and Drinking
Although there are many cultural offerings in Brugge, the city does not have a booming nightlife. That makes it perfect for couples who want a quiet honeymoon. A leisurely dinner may be the highlight of your evening, followed by a stroll along the canals. Due to the city's proximity to the North Sea, restaurants in Brugge specialize in seafood. And the ever-popular frites (potatoes) are eaten in every restaurant and home.

Getting Around
Access to the city by car is limited, and between the cobblestone streets and tourists wandering around, you're better off without one. Brugge is a city that was meant for walking. Tourist-friendly maps are posted everywhere, listing the top attractions and pointing out their locations.
Another great way to get from place to place is by bicycle. Bikes can be rented at the train station and at several spots in the city. There are also minivan tours that pick you up at Market Square and give a good overview of the city's layout and attractions.
Perhaps the best way to see Brugge, though -- and definitely the most romantic way -- is to travel on the scenic canals by boat. Boats depart from the Dijver and the Katelijnestraat every few minutes, as soon as they fill up.
Between its culture, history, architecture, and art treasures, Brugge is a city with plenty to offer. Delectable restaurants and cozy hotels keep every visitor satisfied. Friendly Flemish residents, most of whom speak some English, welcome visitors with a ready smile. For a honeymoon right out of your dreams, there's no better place to be.

Honeymoon Planning: Working with Travel Agents

debut dress 2012

Researching your trip online is easy and fun, but when it comes to booking your all-important honeymoon, the advantages of working with a travel agent are myriad. Agents can offer you the benefit of their globetrotting experiences; inside lines to discounts not widely advertised; package deals and a range of itinerary options; one-stop shopping for air, car, and hotel reservations; and, last but not least, peace of mind. They are your saviors and advocates when travel plans go awry. Here are nine points to help you find the agent of your dreams.

1. Do Your Homework
Before searching for an agent, decide what type of trip you're interested in and approximately what you want to spend. The more specific your destination and activity wish list, the less time you'll waste on pipe dreams that are beyond your budget.

2. Seek Your Soulmate Agent
Good agents are patient, ask lots of questions, maintain rigorous quality standards, are forthright about a destination's drawbacks, and have a genuine interest in clients' feedback. (It's a good sign if an agent posts pictures from clients' trips on the bulletin board; it's a bad sign if all the pictures were taken at the same resort.) Good agents will entertain your dreams with an open mind and present a range of options. Seek out someone who feels like a kindred spirit; their opinion will jive most closely with your likes and dislikes.

3. Shop Around
Don't know where to start? Look for an agency that is a member in good standing with The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). Thousands of agencies in the U.S. and worldwide are members. They do pay a membership fee, and while ASTA does not police its members per se, complaints are investigated and memberships revoked when warranted. Visit the ASTA website to find a member agency near you.

4. Don't Freak Out About Consultation Fees
Some travel agencies, stung by potential clients who "window shop" for agents and itineraries then book the tickets themselves, have started charging a fee for their services and expertise. This fee varies according to the intricacies of the trip and may be waived when the trip is booked or included in the final quote. If you trust and like the agent, consider it a small price to pay for a perfectly planned honeymoon.

5. Expect Experience
What's one of the most important agent credentials? First-hand experience with a property. An agent who has visited a specific hotel knows which room has the best view and can recommend what to order for dessert at the restaurant. Best of all, he may have an inside line to the owner and be able to make special requests on your behalf.
On a more formal note, agents who have CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) as part of their title have completed an 18-month course and have been in business for at least five years. Agents can also earn DS (Destination Specialist) credentials for Africa, the Caribbean, China, Hawaii, Latin America, North America, the Pacific Rim, Western Europe, and special interest travel.


6. Know Your Budget
Be up front and honest about your air/hotel budget and stick to it. Don't crack if the agent tries to steer you toward a more expensive trip or bigger resort (sometimes suggested because it's easier to book). Know thyself: What are your priorities? For example, if being in the center of a city's action is more important to you than a super-luxe room, tell the agent. Knowing what you can and can't live without will help them build a custom-fit itinerary within your budget.

7. Stay Loose
You'll have greater access to discount fares and other promotions if your time frame is flexible, even by just a few days on either end. Travel agents can compare deals from all airlines and car rental companies to find the lowest prices available.


8. Bring Ammunition
Tell your agent about all airline, hotel, car rental, travel award, and travel club programs you participate in. Many travel companies have formed synergistic alliances and share points -- frequent flyer points can be redeemed for hotel nights or rental cars, for example.


9. Be Up Front
Any medical, diet, or exercise needs? Tell your agent. Are you a same-sex couple? An agent needs to know this to avoid booking a hotel that doesn't accept homosexual couples (yes, couples have actually been turned away on arrival). Also mention whether you prefer nonsmoking or smoking accommodations.

10. Ask Lots of Questions
No question is stupid, so don't be shy! Ask your agent about the nitty-gritty details of your trip, including airport connections, bus and taxi services, tipping, foreign currency conversion, and safety concerns such as government-issued travel advisories and warnings. Most important, get a phone number that you can use for after-hours emergencies (at the airport early Sunday morning after your wedding, for instance) and on your trip (preferably toll-free or collect if calling from outside the country).

Honeymoon Planning: What's Hot (and Cool) for Honeymoons?

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Hot Honeymoons
Reethi Rah, Maldives
Forget the Honeymoons(prom gowns outlet) R Us feel of some resorts and visit the necklace of secluded, luxurious, romantic Maldives islands in the Indian Ocean (see picture above).
Average high: summer, 90; winter, 77
The resort: One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah (OneandOnlyResorts.com) features ultraprivate villas tucked away on their own stretch of beach or hovering directly above the aqua lagoon.
The hot spot: The Maldives and its surrounding turquoise waters are known for world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. Take this chance to earn your scuba certification.


Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Called "the new Riviera," Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is poised to become the next big thing (in-the-know celebs already flock here in the summer). What's the draw? This gorgeous European collection of islands is a study in extremes: Thick forests and rocky cliffs jut out over pebbly beaches and ancient ruins sit within walking distance of hip nightlife.
Average high: summer, 84; winter, 55
The resort: Take in the cliff-strewn, rocky coastline from the comfort
of your suite on a Star Clipper cruise ship (StarClippers.com), which
navigates the Adriatic the old-fashioned way -- under sail.
The hot spot: Almost 700 different wines are made in Croatia -- taste away while spending a day at a winery. Then choose the perfect bottle
to go with the coast's amazing seafood-centered regional cuisine.


Dubai, United Arab Emirates
An over-the-top playground for the world's richest, Dubai's always sunny skies, off-the-charts shopping, and unique pastimes (like sand skiing) make it perfect for newlyweds who want to feel like royalty.
Average high: summer, 102; winter, 75
The resort: Modeled after a 19th-century palace, Al Qasr is one of three hotels in the Madinat Jumeirah resort complex. Ready to cater in the most opulent fashion to your every whim, the complex has 45 restaurants, cafes, and bars, two miles of Venetian-style canals, and a Six Senses Spa.
The hot spot: The Gold Soulz area in Deira, with a newly built gold and diamond park for serious jewelry shoppers.


Newport, Rhode Island
Honeymoon like the classic couple you are by mansion-hopping, history-trailing, cliff-walking, and four-poster napping in this picturesque Rhode Island town that's home to New England's bluest blood.
Average high: summer, 78; winter, 39 (okay, not so hot in winter)
The resort: Stay in a mansion: The Chanler at Cliff Walk (TheChanler.com), which was built in 1865, is now a 20-room boutique hotel. Take in its sweeping Atlantic views and dine on the superlative seven-course chef’s tasting menu (with wine selections) at the property's Spiced Pear restaurant.
The hot spot: A day trip to beautiful Block Island offers a Martha's Vineyard-type experience complete with beaches, bike trails, lighthouses, and traditional stone walls but without the crazy crowds.
Anguilla, British West Indies
This laid-back Caribbean island is popular among one-name celebs like Beyoncé and Jay-Z. There are no casinos, cruise ships, or high-rises, making it a great alternative to tourist-trappy islands.

Average high: summer, 82; winter, 77
The resort: Honeymoon like a Hollywooder at the secluded Cap Juluca (CapJuluca.com), where Moorish-style villas with tiled indoor-outdoor spaces dot two white sand beaches.
The hot spot: Scilly Cay, a tiny speck of an island just off the beach is barely big enough for the great restaurant it hosts. Feast on Angullan lobster (more spiny than its New England cousin) and sample the restaurant's legendary rum punch. You may not want to leave.

Whistler Mountain, British Columbia
For ski-loving couples, stoking newlywed passion on the trails at Canada's majestic Whistler Mountain is a dazzling proposition. Spend days off the slopes antiquing, visiting a wealth of art galleries, or relaxing in the spas.
Average low: winter, 20; summer, 52
The resort: The Four Seasons Resort Whistler (FourSeasons.com/whistler) knows how to treat honeymooners -- the Ski Concierge, a Four Seasons outpost at the base of the mountain, will suit you up with equipment upon your arrival.
The coolest take: Go heli-skiing (arranged through the hotel or via WhistlerHeliSkiing.com). You're taken up the mountain face in a helicopter, then dropped off with a guide to ski or snowboard down on totally untouched snow.

Snaefells Peninsula, Iceland
You don't have to be able to pronounce this country's capital (it's Reykjavík -- pronounced ray-kya-vick, by the way), to appreciate its spectacular offerings. Gape at the otherworldly mountains, glaciers, and whale-teeming water or revel in the bustling nightlife and phenomenal Christmas celebrations.
Average low: winter, 27 (remember, only a few hours of sunlight this time of year!); summer, 45
The resort: The landmark Hótel Borg (HotelBorg.is) is steps away from Reykjavík's restaurants and shops. On a daytrip to Snaefellsjokull, take in the mountains, coast, and lava fields on a snowmobile tour.
The coolest take: Relax in the legendary Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (BlueLagoon.com/geothermal_spa) in Grindavik, with its waterfall (good for massages), lava cave steam bath, and other spa options.

Winter lake, Alaska
The climate, nature, and lifestyle of Alaska make it a destination like no other.
Average low: winter, 10; summer, 51
The resort: The isolated Winterlake Lodge (WithinTheWild.com) is a 50-minute floatplane flight from Anchorage. You nestle romantically in a private cabin, eating multicourse gourmet meals in the comfy main lodge. Equipment and instructors are all right there for snowmobiling, ice fishing, glacier-touring by plane, skiing, or dogsledding.
The coolest take: Bookend your trip in Anchorage, and see the native wildlife up close at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AlaskaWildlife.org).

Bridal Showers: The Basics

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Traditionally, a shower is a party for the bride and her closest female relatives and friends, where she is "showered" with love, good wishes, and gifts. Where to start to tackle the task? Don't fret. We've got shower-planning basics nailed down to ten easy tips.


Who Plans It
Shower hostess is in the honor attendant's job description -- but she should ask for help from the other bridesmaids, the bride's sis, even the bride's mom. Emily Post types might tell you moms shouldn't plan a shower because it looks like she's trying to get gifts for the bride, but lots of mothers are very involved in helping with this party -- especialy when her daughter is the host. Enlist anyone with the time and energy.


Pick the Right Date
A shower can take place six months before the wedding or it can be the week before. It can be a surprise for the bride -- or not. Up to you. Depending on where most of the guests live, you may need to schedule it far in advance so everyone can make their travel plans. If most people are local, you'll have more options. Once you've picked a date, set up a planning schedule. Brainstorm as a team about the party -- themes, locations, and entertainment -- early on. Divvy up tasks such as getting/sending the invitations, making the decorations, and coordinating the menu.

Decide On the Budget
Before you start fantasizing about a full spa treatment for fifteen, determine who is paying for this shindig and how much it is going to cost. For fancy fetes, it's kosher to ask all the bridesmaids to help out. Be clear about what everyone owes from the very beginning, though. And make sure all dollar exchanging takes place in advance.

You can be as creative as you want about where to have it: a picnic at the park, a backyard barbecue, and Italian restaurant, a hotel salon, a botanic garden, a bakery.

The Idea
Is the bride a traditional tea party type of girl? Would she be thrilled about a cozy shower at home, or is she expecting the works in a hotel ballroom almost the size of her reception hall? Does she have specific passions (art, gardening, traveling, the color pink) that might lend themselves to a special shower? Keep in mind that themes often make planning easier -- and more fun, because you can use your imagination to add special touches to the invitations, gifts, food, and entertainment.

The Location
You can be as creative as you want about where to have the shower. A list of options: a picnic in a park or at the beach; a backyard barbecue; an Italian restaurant; a hotel salon; a botanic garden; a bakery. Keep in mind that party spaces get booked early in busy seasons, like during the holidays. Call about availability before you get your heart set on something. And obviously, prices may be a factor.

The Guest List
Everyone invited to the shower should also be invited to the wedding. Ask the bride to help out with the shower guest list. If it's a surprise, consult with her mom, groom, or sister. If it's a bridal shower (just the girls), make sure the bride's and groom's close female relatives are invited, as well as all the women in the wedding party and the bride's close girlfriends. If it's a couple shower, make it a coed guest list.

The Gifts
It's a good idea to suggest that the bride and groom register for gifts prior to the shower. In the shower invitations, include information about where guests can purchase presents. (Yes, this is okay etiquette-wise.) If you want guests to bring gifts in keeping with a theme, include special instructions. Just make sure there are related items on the registry so the soon-to-be newlyweds don't get unwanted gear. Investigate any special discounts you can pass on to shower-gift buyers.

The Invitations
Don't feel like you have to go nuts with the invites. They should reflect the formality (or informality) and theme of the shower, but they can be as simple as those cute ready-made cards available at any card store. Make sure guests RSVP to someone (the MOH, the bride's sister) by a date that's at least a few weeks before the shower. If many guests will be coming from out of town, mail the invitations at least two months before the party -- if not earlier -- so those who need to can make travel arrangements. If it's an in-town thing, four to six weeks should be enough time.


Make a Menu
If you're having an at-home shower, think about having the party catered -- food can be anything from a five-foot hero to fried chicken and potato salad to dim sum. If you're doing a theme shower, make the food match. Are the bride and groom honeymooning in Venice? Do an Italian theme with a full-on pasta bar. Don't forget hors d'oeuvres -- be it bowls of pretzels and chips, crudites (raw vegetables and dip), or the bride's mom's famous mini-pizza rounds! For dessert, serve cake, and/or pastries, cookies, pie, ice cream -- either homemade or supplied from the yummiest bakery in town. If you're having the shower in a banquet hall or restaurant, work with the manager/host to come up with a delicious menu. Keep in mind the bride's taste and any special guest needs such as vegetarian or kosher dishes.


The Entertainment
Primary activities at any shower: eating, laughing, and gift-opening. One bridesmaid (often the MOH) should keep track of which guest gave which present, and another should make sure cards stay with the right boxes -- then thank-you notes won't be a nightmare for the bride. Background music (in keeping with the theme, if it lends itself) is a good idea and some planned activities will keep the party moving at a nice pace.

Bridal Showers: Invite Etiquette Q&A

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Q: Who's invited to the bridal shower -- every female invited to the wedding, or just the ones the bride knows well?
A: Unless you're having an intimate wedding, you needn't invite every female wedding guest. Bridal shower guests generally include the bride's closest female friends and relatives, and sometimes those of the groom -- especially if his mother is hosting or helping to plan the party. All shower guests should be invited to the wedding, but that doesn't mean everyone who's invited to the wedding(grey prom dresses) has to attend the bridal shower.

Q: Does the groom attend the bridal shower?
A: Grooms usually don't attend showers -- unless it's a coed shower (sometimes called "couple" or "Jack and Jill" shower), which is for both sexes. Many women love the "girls only" shower aspects (tea, lace, girl talk). But if you want your sweetie there, make it known you'd prefer to have a couple shower -- a party for both of you with a coed guest list. If you want a traditional bridal shower but would like your groom to make an appearance, nothing says he can't -- he can even carry all the presents home. Just be sure he's comfortable with the cameo.

Q: We have ordered 25 beautiful bridal shower invitations. Should the bride get one, or is her invite implied, since she is the guest of honor?
A: Many bridal showers are a surprise (even if the bride knows it's coming), so the bride doesn't get an invite. If she does know about the shower, I think you're right: It's understood that as the guest of honor, she'll be there (you, as hostess, will make sure of that!). Still, an invite makes a great keepsake. You might want to set one aside for her, especially if the invites are super-gorgeous -- she can include it in her wedding album.

Q: I will be inviting several people from the East Coast to my wedding (on the West Coast). Should I send bridal shower invitations even though I know they can't attend, or will this look like a ploy to get more gifts?
A: It's a nice gesture to send them shower invites even if you know they can't attend -- it shows them they're important to you and that you would have wanted them there. I can't imagine your closest friends and relatives would see an invitation as a gambit for presents.

Bridal Shower Etiquette: Bridal Shower Host Q&A

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Q: I'm scared my bridal shower is going to be a snore. How can I tell my maid of honor what kind of shower I want?
A: Back off, bridezilla. (Just kidding.) Seriously though, you cannot take control of this party being thrown in your honor. But while we're sure your maid of honor is trying to plan a bridal shower that suits your personality, there's no reason you can't give her a little guidance. When she approaches you to decide on the date, drop subtle hints like, "Any weekend in May would be perfect, since I love the gardenlike feel of spring." Better yet, enlist a shower spy: Share your concerns with a trustworthy bridesmaid who can help steer the maid of honor toward your bridal shower ideas and your sense of style.

Q: Who is expected to throw my bridal shower? I was hoping it could be at my mom's house.
A: It's long been customary for the maid of honor or the bridesmaids to throw the wedding shower -- so if any one of them is your sister, you're in luck and it would be totally acceptable to throw the bridal shower at your mom's. Your mom can take on the role of cohost -- the mavens of manners no longer look down upon that as a quest for presents (after all, bridal shower gifts are usually expected no matter who's hosting).
Really, it comes down to who wants to throw you the bridal shower: your aunts, the groom's family, your mom's best friends, your college pals, even your coworkers. More brides and grooms are living in cities other than the one where they grew up, and their attendants may be from college, where they live now, or elsewhere. What if the wedding is in the bride's hometown, but none of the maids live there? It's unrealistic to expect a maid of honor in Seattle to plan a shower in Chicago without help from the locals. Faraway bridesmaids and honor attendants definitely pitch in, but Mom is often party central these days, and no one's horrified.

Q: My mother's friend is throwing my bridal shower. Should I bring a hostess gift?
A: A nice, handwritten thank-you note would be perfectly acceptable, but many brides also choose to show their gratitude with a small gift. Some ideas: a flower arrangement, a box of homemade treats, or a lunch out on the town.

Q: My girlfriend and I want to give our friend a luncheon bridal shower at a restaurant. Who pays for the meal? My girlfriend says each guest should pay for her own meal, but I want to do the right thing.
A: If you two are hosting the bridal shower and inviting the guests, then you two should pay for it. If a luncheon seems too expensive, think about tea or dessert instead, or have the luncheon at one of your homes. It's cheaper to come up with a menu and cook it yourselves than to plan a restaurant event.

Q: I am the maid of honor -- for the second time -- in my friend's second wedding. She doesn't want a shower -- she's having a family wedding luncheon and not inviting many friends. What should I do?
A: Any maid of honor's job -- be it a first wedding or an eighth or ninth -- is to be there for the bride, listen to her wishes, and act accordingly. Your bride says no bridal shower? That's one less thing for you to do! I do understand, though, that as the MOH you want to do something nice for her. Think high tea for two -- if she's not into tea, consider going out for coffee, drinks, or dinner, or try a local spa for massages. The idea is to do something together -- your treat -- to celebrate her upcoming wedding(wedding dress 2012).

Mother of the Groom: Mother of the Groom Duties in Detail

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Traditionally, the bride's mother has absorbed most of the pre-wedding responsibilities, while the groom's family assumed more of a back seat. Nowadays, both moms take on a significant role in the planning process, especially if the two families are sharing the financial burden. No matter what the case, here's what's expected of the mother of the groom.

• When the engagement is announced, call the bride's parents as soon as possible. Express your happiness and invite them over for cocktails or out to dinner.
• Host a dinner to introduce the bride to the groom's side of the family.
• Be aware of expenses typically covered by the groom's family and offer financial assistance, if appropriate, to the groom.
• Offer to help scout out ceremony and wedding(
  backless wedding dresses
  ) reception sites and ask friends for recommendations for caterers, florists, and vendors.
• Offer to serve as the main contact for wedding professionals -- especially if the wedding is taking place in your town and the groom no longer lives there.
• Draw up the guest list for the groom's family after asking the couple how many guests you are able to invite.
• Help the groom choose family or ethnic traditions to incorporate into the ceremony or reception.
• Attend bridal shower and buy a gift.
• Obtain information on where the couple is registered and spread the word to your side of the family.
• Consult the bride's mom on her wedding-day outfit. Shop for your own about 4-6 months before the wedding.
• Keep track of your RSVPs and offer to make calls to obtain last-minute responses for anyone on your side of the list (3-4 weeks before the wedding).
• Traditionally, plan and host the rehearsal dinner with the groom's dad (plan 6 months before the wedding; host the day before).
• Stand in the receiving line after the bride and groom (along with the groom's father).
• Sit at the parents' table (if there is one).
• Dance with the groom during the mother/son dance.

Bachelor Parties: 10 Surefire Ideas

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There's nothing tough about planning a good bachelor party. It just takes a little organization (draw up a guest list, schedule a night), a bit of luck (hope everyone can make it, stay out of jail), and one really excellent idea. Here are 10 that can't miss.

Show Him the Money
Vegas:  If you can swing it, nothing beats a quick trip to Sin City: neon lights, slot machines, all the prime rib and shrimp cocktails you can inhale. The best bet for a successful Las Vegas soiree is to move in and out like the wind. Book a late-night flight (flights to Vegas from anywhere are usually cheap) and a large suite at a semi-decent hotel. Carouse through the night, crash in the morning, and then rise for a fancy dinner and quick round of 21 -- one late-night flight back home later, you've got memories guaranteed to last.
Atlantic City:  Same concept as the Las Vegas expedition, but more convenient for East Coast types.


Eat Meat
Take a trip to the most decadent steakhouse in town, and eat like kings. Order a bottle (or ten) of the best red wine in the house.

Buy the Boat
Or just rent it for a night. Look into chartering a yacht for an evening for the groom and his guys. Bring a few bottles of first-rate champagne and celebrate on style in the high seas.

Studs
If the groom and groomsmen can't swing the trip to Vegas, bring Sin City to them: Host a poker night extraordinaire. Stock the bar, order gourmet pizza, and pitch in the kitty for the groom.

Beach Bums
Water, sand, beach volleyball, and a little harmless bikini watching. Need we say more? Top it off with bonfire and brews, and you’re set for some California dreamin’.

Puff Daddy
Take Mr. Last-Night-of-Being-a-Bachelor out for some primo cigars. Head toward your favorite cigar bar and puff away, while quaffing single-malt Scotch.

Swingers
Sometimes, nothing beats a classic. We're talking golf here. Eighteen holes of sun, fun, and an extra cart for the keg of beer. If you can rally the troops, go for a three-round weekend retreat. We suggest Palm Springs, California, home of PGA West, Desert Dunes, and Bob Hope. Swing by morning, swim by afternoon, barbecue by night.

You're Tripping
Road tripping, we mean. Grabbing a few good buddies and setting off for destinations unknown is a huge part of the appeal of a road trip. Drive as far as one tank of gas will get you. In the immortal words of Jonathan Richman: “I got my jeans and things and I am ready to go.”

The Ponies
Ascot it isn't, but horse racing can be a load of fun. Just imagine: a pack of two-year-olds thundering down the track, the roar of the crowd, and the lure of the daily double. Buy a racing form, order a mint julep, and ask the advice of some of the old-timers hanging around the track.

Rave On
Ever dream of hosting a wild, all-night party at an exclusive dance club? Get in touch with the management of the hottest nightclub in town and ask about renting one of their VIP rooms for the evening. This could get expensive, especially if you have an open bar, so make sure all the party-goers are prepared to open their wallets (and maybe even their 401(k) accounts)!

Bachelor Parties: How to Deal With His Bachelor Party

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Don't worry -- you're hardly the first bride to feel uncomfortable about the bachelor party. Though out-of-control antics on movies and TV make it look like total debauchery is headed your future husband's way, the real-life version will likely be a bit more mundane. If it's making you uncomfortable, read on for some honest info and advice.

Let Him Have It
We don't mean unleash your inner bridezilla. If he wants to have a bachelor party, let him. It's an important guy ritual to blow off steam prewedding(debut dress 2012) and for him to reassure his pals that he's still "one of the guys" even though he's making a commitment to marriage. This is a good thing: After all, you're planning on keeping your circle of friends tight postwedding, so he should have his crew too.

The Unexpected Is a Possibility
Bachelor parties aren't exactly what they used to be. Rather than the stereotypical evening of strippers and stogies, many men today are opting for other types of parties. Taking a weekend trip with the guys -- think outdoorsy activities like white-water rafting and fly-fishing -- is a popular option. Even those who stay closer to home might go with an unconventional activity that's fun and out of the ordinary, like suiting up for some paintball or touring a local brewery.

Communicate Your Limits
Be open about your feelings. This doesn't mean nag him endlessly; it means tell him what makes you uncomfortable. Saying, "Thinking about you hiring a stripper makes me feel unhappy" is very different than saying, "You'll hire a stripper over my dead body." Remember, this is your fiance here -- he wants you to be happy. Letting him know your threshold for wild-and-craziness is totally acceptable, and he should appreciate that you were willing to tell him. It can also potentially open up an important dialogue about your relationship: You need to know that you can trust him, and he you.

Remember Your Own
Don't forget -- you get to do this too. If your bachelorette party is going to be a spa day, that's one thing, but if you're hitting the town looking fabulous with your girlfriends, that's totally another. When you're talking about the bachelor party, be sure to talk about the bachelorette party as well: It's only fair that the two of you play by the same rules. Setting a mutual limit also makes the whole process feel less like each partner constraining the other and more about setting boundaries within your relationship.

On the Big Night
Do not, we repeat, do not sit at home watching the clock and wondering what he's doing. Make plans of your own, get out of the house, and go have a good time! Even if you aren't up for going out to a club, surely you can muster the energy to go to the movies with a friend or two. The scenarios you come up with in your head are most likely a thousand times more lurid than anything that's actually going on -- and if you've followed our advice so far, you should be able to feel okay about things anyway. Remember, there might be a lot of girls out there, but you are the one he wants to marry.

Grooms: Find the Most Flattering Tuxedo Styles for Your Wedding

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You've never had so many pictures taken of you in your life, so make sure you look great. Keep these tips in mind for choosing the suit that best becomes you.


Tall and Thin
Congratulations. You can wear just about any tuxedo, from contemporary styles -- like single-breasted four-button jackets -- to a more classic, double-breasted tuxedo with broad shoulders. The choice is yours. If you're extremely thin and want to look bulkier, opt for the latter; it will pad your chest slightly and fill out your torso. One caveat: Make sure your trouser legs and jacket arms are long enough.

How do you know if your tux jacket fits right? The bottom hem should cover the butt and the vent shouldn't pull open, and the collar should lie flat on your neck without any gaps or bulges.


Tall and Husky, or Muscular
Go for a smooth, clean look without a lot of frills. A shawl collar (a more rounded lapel than a peak collar) will create an elegant line that will make you seem less bulky. Avoid double-breasted jackets and pleated shirts, which add volume. If you have a large waist, consider wearing a vest instead of a cummerbund, since cummerbunds draw attention to the waist, while vests conceal girth. Keep in mind that black has a slimming effect, which makes the classic tux perfect for you. You'll probably find that white suits, light-colored suits (such as tan or seersucker), morning suits, and tails are not your most flattering looks. And if you're extremely muscular, be aware of sizing, especially around your neck. You don't want to feel like your bow tie is strangling you.

Short and Slim
Avoid styles that look too large on your frame. Steer clear of double-breasted jackets. Instead, go for a two- or three-button jacket with a low-button stance (it elongates the body), paired with classic tuxedo pants or pleated trousers. If you want to look a bit broader, ask your tailor for extra shoulder padding. When sizing your tux or suit, make sure everything fits precisely so you don't end up swimming in yards of extra material.

Short and Broad
Stick with a single-breasted jacket. Go for a classic two- or one-button jacket with a low-button stance and a shawl collar, which will keep your look streamlined and slim. Also, choose a jacket with a natural shoulder line, and avoid the more broad European styles. If you have a heavy waist, choose a vest rather than a cummerbund to draw attention away from your waistline and up toward your face. And once again, remember that black has a slimming effect, which makes the classic tux perfect for you. When it comes to sizing, make sure your jacket and trousers fit well. When you button your jacket, the material near the buttons shouldn't pull. Your trousers should fit comfortably around your waist.

Grooms: How to Tie a Bow Tie

1.Put the tie around your neck so that end "A" (on your left) is longer than end "B" (photo 1).










2.Cross end "A" over the top of "B" (photo 2).






3.Pull end "A" up and behind end "B" (photo 3).








4.Create a loop with end "B" (photo 4). This will be half your bow.










5.Next, let end "A" hang in front of the loop you just formed (photo 5).








6.Hold everything in place, pulling end "A" behind the tie from below (photo 6), then folding it in half to create the other side of the bow. Poke this loop through the space behind loop "B."







7.Voila! You've tied the tie (photo 7). If it looks funny or bedraggled, adjust the tie by tugging at its ends and straightening the center knot.

One last tip: If you simply can't tie your tie, pray that someone has a pre-tied bow tie, or go buy one yourself. Just clasp it at the back of your neck and set off down the aisle!

Eat Right: Shop Healthy Before Your Wedding

lora bridal shop

the key to sustainable weight loss? A balanced diet -- do a thorough sweep down these aisles.
Dairy
Essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, dairy products also help to build strong bones, slow bone loss, and reduce fragility.
Skip High-fat dairy products like ice cream, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
Pick Fat-free or low-fat milk and yogurt.

Meat
Lean meat contains all of the essential amino acids the body needs and is a great source of protein. Up to 15 times more iron is absorbed by the body from beef than from spinach.
Skip Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs -- they're high in fat.
Pick Beef and pork cuts with the terms "loin" or "round." Loins are flavorful, requiring little sauce or seasoning, and are naturally lean. Rounds offer leanness and tenderness. Try beef tenderloin or top round; both are high in protein and zinc.


Fish
This high-protein, low-fat food is immensely important for cardiovascular health. High in omega-3 fatty acids, eating fish helps regulate blood clotting and vessel constriction; omega-3s can also improve the condition of your skin, hair, and nails.
Skip Fish known for high-mercury levels, such as king mackerel and swordfish, which contain nine times as much as "low-mercury" fish like tuna and salmon.
Pick Salmon, tuna, or tilapia -- all are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Grains
Don't skip the carbs! Grains are filling and nutritious; they help to curb an appetite and aid in long-term weight loss. They're also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Skip Less complex carbohydrates and grains like white rice, nonwheat breads and pastas, and any grain high in refined sugar. Grain products with high amounts of refined sugar and flour raise insulin levels in the blood, which depresses the immune system and leads to fat storage and weight gain.
Pick Whole grain pastas, breads, and cereals that are high in fiber, B vitamins, and magnesium. These complex carbs will create fuel for your body and leave you feeling fuller and more satisfied.

Vegetables
The perfect energy source, vegetables are typically low in calories, so you can fill up on them. Flooded with fiber and nutrients, vegetables help boost energy.
Skip Veggies doused in butter, oils, and cheese sauce -- especially prevalent in frozen dinners. The high salt and fat content of these extras cancel out the health qualities of the vegetables.
Pick A variety of fresh or frozen vegetables without the extras. Try these veggie heroes: Broccoli is rich in vitamins A and C; tomatoes are high in flavonoids that help prevent heart disease and cancer; and the vitamin B in mushrooms helps with red blood cell functioning.

Beverages
The never-ending aisles of beverages can be hard to navigate, but sticking with the right drinks will help hydrate your body, give you the necessary nutrients to strengthen your immune system, and regulate body temperature -- essential for a busy bride- or groom-to-be.
Skip Steer clear of any beverages high in sugar, especially fruit juices (fresh-squeezed is a different story), sodas, and fatty milk products, which contain "empty calories." Soda is especially bad for you because it contains phosphoric acid, which may contribute to bone loss.
Pick Sparkling water, antioxidant-rich teas, 100 percent fruit juices (try half water, half juice to cut calories and get more water in your diet), or diet soda. It's better to forgo the soda indefinitely, but if you're really craving one, make it a diet, which doesn't contain all the sugar.


Snacks
A snack isn't just a treat -- it's a way to maintain your energy throughout the day. Healthy snacking helps you maintain a higher metabolism, lower cholesterol, and keep your body alert (read: no energy mid-afternoon energy crash).
Skip Prepackaged unhealthy snacks, such as chips, cookies, or candies. While those 100-calorie cookie snacks may seem like a good idea for portion control, they're not filling, so you're more likely to snack more often.
Pick Opt for a mix of lean protein and high fiber snacks, such as a low-fat cheese stick and whole wheat crackers. Eating small snacks two to three times a day helps create lean muscle and decrease overall body fat.
Grocery Shopping Cheat Sheet


Beverages 
Sparkling water
Antioxidant-rich tea
100 percent fruit juices
Dairy
Low-fat or fat-free milk
Low-fat or fat-free yogurt
Egg whites or egg substitutes
Fish
Salmon
Tuna
Tilapia
Grains
Whole grain pastas
Multigrain breads
High-fiber cereals
Meat
Beef and pork cuts with the terms "loin" or "round"
Beef tenderloin
Pork top loin roast
Vegetables
Fresh or frozen vegetables without the extra sauce
Cauliflower
Spinach
Carrots
Snacks
Low-fat cheese sticks
Whole wheat crackers
Fruit: apples, pears and oranges