Bali Floral Designer
Bali Party Planner
Bali Wedding Organizer
Bali Wedding Planner
Bali Event Organizer
Bali Catering
Bali Flower Shop
Bali Florist
THE WEDDING PLANNER
See also The Wedding Planner
Part 2

"Click Here"


How to Announce Your Engagement to Family and Friends.
The moment you become engaged, you want to shout it from the rooftops. Well, here's a more effective and less dangerous way to do that!


Be prepared for lots of direct mail from now on.

Here's one possible format for a newspaper announcement: "Mr. and Mrs. Brian Bacardi of Kowloon, Hong Kong, announce the engagement of their daughter
Petra Bowels to Bill Brown, the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Brown of Bangkok. The wedding will take place in September. Miss Bowels is a graduate of the
University of Hong Kong and is a meteorologist with Star. Mr. Brown is a graduate of McGill University and is in his second year of medical school at the Medical
College of Los Angeles."




How to Get Married in Bali.
Bali has been called the “Island of the Gods” and it's a stunning place for a destination wedding. Whether you opt for one of the island's opulent gardens, a
wind-swept beach or choose to be married atop a pair of Sumatran elephants, a wedding in Bali is sure to be a unique experience.

Check the "Culture and Links" pages of this site for general tourist information about Indonesia and Bali and check the detailed information on marriage laws,
licenses and certificates in Bali. Be sure to comply with all the requirements.

Hire Christian as your Wedding Planner.

Decide what kind of religious ceremony you would like. A religious ceremony is essential in Bali. Both partners need to be practicing the same religion.

Choose a venue for your wedding. Christian can help you select an appropriate place.

Arrange travel for you and your guests to Bali.

Enjoy your Wedding Day.


How to Plan a Long-Distance Wedding.
As if organizing a wedding weren't stressful enough, now you're trying to do it from afar. Fret not, it's doable - it's just a little trickier.

Choose a location and date as soon as possible. This will make all of the other planning easier.

Check with the city regarding marriage requirements. Residency requirements and waiting periods can put a screeching halt to your plans if you don't know
about them soon enough.

Plan your visits to the site of the wedding carefully. Hit as many places on your to-do list as possible whenever you're in town.

Leave yourself plenty of time to travel and plan. You'll need to check some things out in person (caterer, reception location, salon where you'll have your hair
done).

Think about hiring Christian who can take care of the details for you. He'll be much more familiar with what services and people are available and can help
keep your stress level under control.

Delegate if you can't afford a consultant. If people ask whether they can help, put them to work. Have each bridesmaid cover a different project: caterer, DJ,
florist, etc.

Arrange your attendants' attire though a large retail chain, if possible. Then you won't have to mail shoes and dresses.

Reserve a block of rooms at a hotel for your out-of-town guests. Make sure the hotel has an inexpensive or complimentary shuttle service.

Consider holding two small receptions - one in your wedding city and one at home. That will save your guests from having to travel so far and will save you from
having to transport all the gifts.

Leave room in your budget for travel and long-distance phone charges.        




You're Engaged! Now What? Top Five Things To Do Now.

Your head must be spinning with visions of your wedding day! Resist running down to the local wedding shop until you and your spouse address these five
important topics (and there will be hundreds more as well). Get out a notebook with five clean sheets and start jotting.

Step 1.
Create a list of important topics to discuss with your fiancée. Here are some to get you started.


Step 2.
Meet with the parents to discuss the topics in Step One ( if appropriate ). The tough issues: budget and guest list. Find out what is most important to them. Stick
to the topics in your list for now.

Step 3.
Pick a wedding date. Consider national and religious holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, school schedules, weather, and vacation days. It is not unusual to set a
date one year in advance, especially to reserve a popular site.

Step 4.
Start gathering information for creative ideas. If you like to follow trends, check out wedding web sites on the Internet and purchase popular bridal magazines.
Find out when future wedding shows will be in your town and plan to attend at least one.

Step 5.
Get organized! The more organized you are, the easier the planning, and the less stressful the event. Decide who will plan the wedding (most brides plan the
majority), and whether or not a wedding consultant or professional events planner should be hired.

The Next Five Things To Do Now.

Step 6.
Discuss openly and honestly with your future spouse, the "planning" responsibilities. Who will plan the entertainment? Who will plan the menu? Who will
decide on the baker and see it through? The many, many details are important.

Step 7.
Prepare a list of sites that you have always dreamed of having your wedding. On the beach, in the largest cathedral in the city, in the country, at the Country
Club, at your dad's beautiful backyard. There must be hundreds of sites available in your city or in another city ( destination weddings is the rage ). Narrow the
sites to three of your favorites, then check to see if your wedding date is available at the site before making the visit.

Step 8.
Attend wedding shows in your area. The best strategy is to attend two shows. The first time, your purpose can be "information gathering". See what vendors
offer, look at jewelry, gowns, hairstyles, cakes (and taste them too), tuxedos, flowers, balloons, etc. The second visit should be around four-to-six months
before your wedding with the purpose of making appointments with vendors you like, asking detailed questions about their services and gathering information
about pricing.

Step 9.
Discuss the size of the guest list and if 50% will be from the bride's family and 50% from the groom's family.

Step 10.
You have already reached number ten by starting the research and gathering of information. It will seem as if your entire day is spent on planning your
wedding. Be careful not to let your wedding planning get in the way of your normal responsibilities. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust, such as
a minister, priest, rabbi, or counselor, who work with engaged couples daily and understand the stress you may experience.

Wedding Etiquette.
What is meant by wedding etiquette? The word "etiquette" means good manners or behavior. Our comment: do what feels right to you. Of course, you may be
the talk of the town, but at least you celebrated the way you wanted. Most wedding etiquette focuses on the invitations, his and her manners towards the
families and guests, careful seating of your guests, producing a tasteful event and knowing how to make their important guests feel welcome. The bride and
groom are the focus of the event and everyone is watching their every move. If something unexpected happens, the couple knows how to respond without
stressing themselves or others. The most informed bride and groom know the do’s and don’ts as expressed by those in the know. If you wish to find out what
society has published, pick up a book at your local book store (there should be an entire shelf dedicated to weddings) or go online.

What Qualifies as a Small, an Average, or a Large Wedding?
Consider two components: number of guests invited or the wedding budget. Usually, a small wedding consist of 100 guests or less. These are normally of a
smaller budget because the reception (food and refreshments) consist of 40% of the cost of the event. However, a small wedding could have a large budget of
say $20,000 consisting of the finest food and wine and other accommodations. The small wedding budget is in the range of $1,000 to $15,000.

Usually, an average wedding consist of 200-300 guests. The average budget may come as a surprise to you, but providing a seated affair or buffet, champagne
and entertainment at the reception consist of 40% of the budget.

A large wedding is an extravagant affair, and the budget isn't as important as the celebration itself. A large wedding can consist of 300-1000 guests. Providing
a wonderful reception for a large number of guests can really add up! With an unlimited budget, why not serve a savory menu and serve the best refreshments
for your once-in-a-lifetime event? Usually, large wedding costs anywhere from $75,000 to $200,000.

Do I Need a Theme for My Wedding?
A wedding theme is recommended. Having a theme gives your planning chore a focus. The theme doesn't have to be elaborate or unique; it can be as simple as
having a religious theme (Catholic, Muslim, etc.), or cultural theme (Balinese, Greek, Indian, Chinese, etc.). Do you and your spouse have a favorite sport. If you
both love to play golf, then a Country Club is a great theme with favors to match; love tennis? There have been wedding receptions on the tennis court (with
appropriate tents, seating and decor that it was hard to believe it was on the court. Find something unique that brought the two of you together, and use it as a
theme. Maybe you have a favorite flower that you want to see everywhere-- at the ceremony and the reception, on your invitations, and on the thank you cards.

How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding.
When exchanging vows under the sun or the stars, be sure to expect the unexpected. But with some creativity, planning and foresight, the adventurous couple
can have the wedding of their dreams.


An outdoor wedding does not necessarily translate into less cost. Remember that there will be costs associated with outfitting the location and making it
accessible to guests.  

Attend Bridal Shows.
What’s all the excitement about? A bridal show offers you one of the best shopping options as a wedding consumer. At the bridal show, you will be able to
meet first hand with local vendors all in one day and in one location. If possible, take a friend or relative with you, or best yet, bring your future spouse. You can
take advantage of this opportunity by first discussing your needs and expectations for your wedding before attending the show. Write down questions so you
can be prepared to ask them right on the spot.

Some of the vendors will bring samples; for example, most cake vendors will bring a variety of flavored cakes for you to taste. The tuxedo rental shops will
have tuxedos for you to touch and see ( instead of just a photo in a brochure ). Some catering companies will provide food samples ( that’s where the entire
crowd is ). You may find real jewelry, floral arrangements, videos of real weddings, and be able to sit inside a limousine. Here are some smart tips:

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Bring a tote bag that you can wear on your shoulder. There are many free tote bags at the show, but you have to carry them in your hand.
Bring cash, checks or credit cards – many vendors offer discounts for point-of-sale purchases on the exhibit day.
Bring your calendar or day timer to make appointments with vendors.
Make cards or labels with your name, address, telephone number and email address ( like a business card ) to give to the vendors. This effort will save time
from having to write and e-write your personal information at each booth.
Usually a fashion show takes place at a bridal show. You don’t want to miss this event; browse close to booths located near the entry door as the time nears.
The line for the fashion show forms quickly.
Pick up free wedding magazines at the show.

Enter many contests to win bridal packages or maybe a honeymoon. Most of all have fun. Hundreds of vendors are waiting to be of service to you.





Pick Your Wedding Date
Your wedding date should be very special and personal to both of you. The day you select will be the anniversary date for years to come. Preferably the date
you select will not conflict on the days of special birthdays, anniversaries, or major religious or national holidays. Check with close family members to see if
the date sets well with them, but keep in mind that the day you and your loved one prefer will get top consideration—you can’t please everyone. Don’t forget to
consider the weather.

If you always dreamed of a beach wedding, then review the almanac for the best time of the year for your location. If you are planning a religious ceremony,
make sure your wedding date will not conflict with any major religious event. Have you noticed that most weddings take place on Saturday? A wedding can
actually take place on a Friday, or Sunday, or on any day of the week. If you plan on a large wedding, then Saturday works best for your guests. Are you
considering marrying on a holiday? That may work for you or against you. Many of your guests already have an extra day off from work for a major holiday and
can make your wedding a part of their little vacation or holiday. Regrettably, many guests have “get-away” plans for the holiday. Take extra consideration if you
are narrowing down a date that falls on a huge holiday. It might work in your favor!

Most Popular Months to Marry
June and August are the most popular months to get married, followed closely by May, September and October. The fewest weddings occur in January and
March. These months may prove to be a good time to get the best prices.

Special Holidays and Events
Jot down a list of everyone's birthday (family members) and consider holidays and weather before you select a wedding date.

You Have a Date, Now What Time?
Late morning? Noon? Afternoon? Evening? A lot of components influence and determine the time of your wedding. If you are marrying in a church, they may
only perform weddings at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. If you have a wedding at a private villa and hire a clergy, then your options are much more flexible.

A morning wedding is a good idea if it's summer and the day gets hot and sticky as it gets old. Also, you can serve a light lunch and refreshments and save on
your budget.

An evening wedding is romantic and appropriate for a "black tie" or "smart casual" type of an event. Candles and fine wine will create a special event for your
guests as well.

An afternoon event is the most popular time to marry. The morning isn't as rushed, and it's early enough for the grandparents to enjoy the day without feeling
obligated to staying late into the night. The time you select will definitely impact the mood you want on your special day.

Marrying Before the Wedding Date.
Why are couples opting to marry in secret before their public exchange of vows? Every couple has their own personal reason. Some may find it less stressful
by sharing an intimate time together without the hundreds of decisions to be made for the big event. Some may have to marry for citizenship reasons.

Your Wedding Tasks.
The average wedding consists of approximately 300 tasks (yes! Including having your mail on hold while on your honeymoon, transporting your wedding gifts to
mom's house the night of your wedding, printing out your airlines tickets on-line 24-hours before the flight). May we suggest a planner to help you move through
these tasks without going insane?.  Whatever method you decide, we would like to discourage you from keeping it all in your head because you need to get
plenty of rest on the weeks before your wedding.

How to Decide Whom to Invite to Your Wedding.
You agreed to have no more than 125 guests at your wedding. But you've just realized that between the two of you, you have 300 people you want to invite. Now
what?


Remember that these are people you're sharing your special day with. Outside of very immediate family members, you aren't required to include anyone on
your invitation list.   

As a thoughtful gesture, set aside a group of 6 to 10 invitations for the parents to send to whoever they like that didn't make it onto the regular guest list.     

People will bring their kids unless you spell it out for them. Try "Adults-only Reception after 9:00 PM" on your Invitations.



Having twelve months to plan your wedding is a luxury. Take advantage by securing a site that's very popular where you have always dreamed of marrying. You
can also take the tasks listed below for six months planning, and stretch it out so you can really read the vendors fine print, see and taste samples of menu
items, call vendor references, manage a workable budget, and get organized for that last busy month before your wedding. The last month before your
wedding will be very much the same as for a bride and groom who have only six months to plan their wedding.



How to Hire Christian.
Planning a wedding involves so many details that you may find you need help. A good wedding or bridal consultant will take care of the details, bring you in
under budget and help you have a stress-free and enjoyable wedding.


Some consultants work out of their homes, and some have more experience than others. Anyone you hire should have business cards, stationery, a written
contract for you to sign and other evidence of legitimate business operations.

Treat your consultant with consideration to ensure good service and a great wedding.

After the wedding, indicate your willingness to give a reference if you were satisfied.

Trust your instincts. Don't hire someone you have a bad feeling about, someone who seems interested only in money or someone who seems unwilling to do
things your way.         

Never hire a consultant who receives a commission or referral fee from other wedding vendors. This is bad business and may make it more difficult to get the
best service.        

If marrying at your place of worship, make an appointment to speak with the Officiant about all the requirements. If you need an Officiant, start asking friends
and family for references, attend shows, search yellow pages and interview on the telephone.

The guest list is a necessary component that is very time consuming. Gathering names and addresses is always a challenge. You may find you have to divide
the guest list into the A list and B list because you are on a tight budget. As regrets are received, you can add the next guest from the B list.

Work on the budget. You will be surprised how little $5,000 buys for a wedding. Perhaps the $500 favors are not really needed ....

Shop for your gown. It's really too early but certainly the most fun. Try not to buy a dress on your first visit-many brides change their mind as the months pass
and new dresses appear in the magazines and bridal shops.

Make appointments to see several sites. Actually stand in the spot where you would marry and consider the site only if it feels exciting to you.

Now that you have visited some sites, which colors were appealing to you? The color theme sets the tone for your event and can be used on your invitations,
centerpieces, favors, flowers, bridesmaids dresses and table settings.

Time to select the wedding party. Usually the maid-of-honor and best man are easy to decide ( if you can't decide between two, make them both the honored
ones ). The wedding party is not only an elite group of friends and family, but also the group that you can count on to help you plan. Choose carefully, because
you don't want to be in a position of changing your mind after they answered yes. If you decided later to have an extremely small, intimate wedding, then it will
be your duty to inform the usher or bridesmaid that they will not (after all) play a part in your wedding. Avoid this situation at all costs.

Vacation Time. If you work, inform your supervisor of the time you will need off. If possible, take a couple of days off before the wedding--you may need it. Is
your destination international? Do you have a passport? If not, apply asap; sometimes it takes months to process the paperwork.


You got the budget under control, the date, and site and the guest list started. You spoke to an Officiate to marry you. Now it's time to research the numerous
vendors that will all play an important role in your wedding.

On-site Caterer.
If you selected a hotel, the site manager already has a wedding coordinator on board to help you with menu items and refreshments. Hotels usually have
several rooms for you to select and several menu options for every budget. Go to each of the rooms and go with the one that gives you good vibes.

Off-site Caterer.
If you are having your reception at a hall or private villa, then meet with caterers at the site. This will help them in their planning. The best recommendation for
a  caterer is through referral. If you can't find one, then attend a wedding show so you can taste a sample, or at least speak with many of the vendors.

Florist.
Find a business that delivers to many weddings. You want the freshest looking arrangements for your wedding. You can see live samples at bridal shows.

How to Hire a Florist for Your Wedding.
Floral decorations help lend an aura of elegance and beauty to your wedding. Here's how to choose a florist who can produce your vision for your special day.

Decide whether you need a florist or a floral designer. Floral designers will transform your entire venue. A florist will provide you with arrangements and advice
on how to use them.


Though the groom's family traditionally pays for the bride's bouquet, mothers' corsages, men's boutonnières and rehearsal dinner flowers, it's wise to order all
flowers at the same time. In this way, you can take advantage of package or volume discounts.

Try making boutonnières and corsages yourself to save money.

Listen to your florist's suggestions; remember that she's an expert in her field.

If the weather might be hot, get flowers that can hold up to heat and humidity.

Photographer.
Make sure you interview the photographer and view his/her samples of  past weddings. Make sure you feel comfortable with his/her demeanor and the  
photographer will follow you from getting dressed before the ceremony, to the send-off.

How to Hire a Photographer for Your Wedding

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. What yours say about your wedding day will depend a lot on who's behind the camera.

Ask family, friends and recent newlyweds for recommendations, and set up interviews. You can also consult the yellow pages and wedding vendors, but
exercise extra caution in checking work samples and references if you find your photographers in this manner.

Request to see a complete coverage of each photographer's work - that is, ask for a picture portfolio of an entire wedding for which he or she was hired.

Choose an overall photographic style that suits you, whether photojournalistic, candid, formal posed portraits, artsy with added dramatic flourishes, color, or
black-and-white for a romantic, classy look - or select a blend of a number of styles. Which can the prospective photographer deliver?

Consider the photographer's personality. Decide if you share a vision and will get along well. Remember, the photographer will be your shadow before and
during the event.

Check prices, including those of packages offered and numbers of prints included. Remember, it may be worth it to invest in a good photographer if it means
that the memories of the day will be captured perfectly or near-perfectly on CD.

Schedule a follow-up meeting to hammer out specifics,  specific shots you want and don't want, the shooting schedule on the day of the wedding, how many
photo’s will be shot, the number of proofs available.

Confirm that the photographer you hire will be the one to actually shoot the pictures.

Book early; the best wedding photographers get booked a year in advance.

Find a photographer who either is a pro or is excited about shooting weddings, and who brings some personal flair to his or her work.
A popular trend today among engaged couples is getting married abroad. You can exchange vows in a romantic setting and explore new ground together.


Videographer.
This professional has quality equipment and has samples for you to see. If you are serious about having a video of your wedding, then the expense will be
worthy.  Your uncle Tom may want to film your event as a gift, but you may also have visuals that make you dizzy, or not capture the moment quite correctly.
Tom may not have the experience to clip the film and add the right music.

Invitations.
The most beautiful and creative selections are available today. No more standard-looking invitations. If you decide to create your own, don't be fooled by
thinking you will save a lot of money as special paper is costly. Also, it will be very time consuming ( but special of course ). Do you have guests coming in from
out of town? Then order save-the-date cards a.s.a.p. To get them in the mail. These cards don't have to match your theme exactly and are usually fun cards to
get the message across.

Attendant's dresses.
Give them the color theme and other particulars, and let them select their dress.

How to Prepare to Be the Maid of Honor.
The good news is you've been asked to be the maid or matron of honor. You are truly honored to be chosen--your friendship has passed the test of time. The
bad news is you've been asked to be the maid or matron of honor. It's a big job and the pressures on. Don't worry, though--good friends always rise to the
occasion.



Donate bridesmaids' dresses to charity after the wedding, if they won't be used again.

Put together a bridal emergency kit for the wedding. Include an extra pair of stockings, tampons, dental floss, toothbrushes and toothpaste, breath mints, hair
spray, tissues, needle and thread, pins, stain remover, small scissors, nail polish in her chosen color, aspirin, lip gloss, alka selzer, bottled water and an
energy bar.

Entertainment.
This includes music for the ceremony ( before, during and after ), the cocktail hour, the reception, and the dance. If you want a live band, the popular ones book
months ahead -- so go listen to them at a public showing and call them right away if you like them.

How to Choose Between a Band and a DJ for Your Wedding.
Music makes the party. In a perfect world, with unlimited resources, a live band/DJ combo would be bliss. In the real world, you might have to choose.


Consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of each. Then make a choice and book your entertainment. Bands and DJs can be booked a year in
advance.   

Be sure to ask family, friends, reception site coordinators, music stores and local musicians associations for recommendations. Often, the best DJs and
bands do not have to advertise.

Cake.
You are probably overwhelmed at the artistry of today's wedding cakes. It seems like a sin to bite into it. The wedding shows usually have many bakers with
samples for you to taste and photos of popular styles. Most will work with you on a particular theme that's fitting. If you are celebrating in a hotel, the catering
manager usually works closely with a wedding baker or they can make the cake there.


Bridal Registry.
Now is a good time to register at possibly two stores. We recommend  one store that is national for your out-of-town guests. More stores offer registry on-line
with added value of checking the status of what items are available and which ones are going fast. Go to the store and have fun selecting your gifts. More
options are available for today's brides and grooms. Many couples have lived together for awhile and don't need the usual kitchen and bath accessories. Some
couple prefers a contribution towards their honeymoon or giving to charity.


Marriage License.
Call the county clerk for information as to time the office is open, fee, and other requirements such as identification papers. Ask your Officiate if he or she has
inside information on obtaining the license papers.

Call your local newspaper to place an engagement or announcement to find out the particulars they need such as image size, deadlines, and costs.


Transportation.
Start interviewing different business, then review your wedding plans and decide who will require special transportation. Secure a date after you have
reviewed the contract and called references.

Calligraphy.
Give a copy of your guest list to the calligrapher. He or she may need a couple of weeks to complete your list.

Hairdresser.
You are probably making your six week visit to your hairdresser. Make a  couple of other appointments while you are there. One for a practice ( along with your
bridal headpiece/veil ), and the other on the morning of your wedding day.

Get the groom and groomsmen, dads, ring bearer to the tuxedo shop and get measured. Order the suits on the same day.

Party rental.
If you need to rent tables and chairs, and catering equipment, research and secure a company now.

Wedding Insurance.
Gather information about wedding insurance against vendors that don't deliver. Also consider insuring the wedding rings.

Time to buy all the little necessities, such as a cake serving set, champagne goblets, flower girl basket, ring pillow, pew bows, guest book and pen. Releases.
You have many  options - release butterflies, doves, bubbles, rice [ not recommended because of the mess it leaves ]


Gifts.
A good time to buy a gift for him/her, for your parents, for the wedding party, and  anyone else who has so graciously helped you along the way.

Favors.
It's time to order favors; most favors include your names and the wedding date, and assembly, so make sure there's enough time to get this accomplished.

Mail the invitations. Your guests will appreciate the six-week notice.

Bridal lunch. As time closes in on the final months, enjoy a fun lunch with your bridesmaids and if you have a gift for them, this is a good time to present it. ( Or
you can wait until the rehearsal dinner ).

Guys bonding. Today the guys get together and enjoy a dinner at a quiet restaurant or at someone's beach house. This is a change from a wild bachelor party
and a good time to give the ushers a gift  ( if you have one ).



Two weeks to go? Time for the final gown fitting.

One week to go? Doesn't a massage sound just great right now?







Your Wedding Gown.
Is there a gown that will make you feel like a princess? The real answer is “yes”. Actually, there are thousands of gowns that will make you feel like a princess.
But you are looking for the one that also expresses your personal style. Find out which style fits you best. Most first-time brides select a ball gown. This type of
gown is fitted at the bodice and well-defined at the waist. The skirt is very full and fun to wear. Most drawings and decorations that you see show a bride
wearing a ball gown. An A-line dress is basically straight from the shoulders, somewhat fitted at the waist and spreads out just enough to walk comfortably. It’
s a very elegant choice.

Take pictures of your favorite gowns from magazines with you when you visit the bridal shop or your seamstress. Take your shoes and headpiece with you to
appreciate the full presentation. And have patience—you may try on five, ten or twenty gowns before you find the right one. Practice sitting down and hugging
while you have the dress on to find out how comfortable it is. Walk around the shop and take note of anything that doesn't quite feel right.

How to Choose a Wedding Dress
Buying a wedding dress can be an arduous process. On average, a bride will try on about 16 or 17 gowns before finding the perfect dress. Start the process at
least seven months prior to the wedding if you are having the dress made.


How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress
You've dreamt about walking down that aisle since you were a little girl, and now the big day is approaching. Whether you're choosing a dress off the rack or
having one made just for you, follow these tips and make your dream come true.

Start your search six to nine months ahead. Special orders can take four to six months, plus time for alterations.

Keep your file of photographs of dresses you like from bridal magazines, advertisements and boutique promotions handy when you shop.   

Choose a style appropriate for the ceremony. For a formal evening wedding, a floor-length dress in ivory, white, cream or champagne, often worn with gloves
and a train, is an elegant choice. Semi formal dresses can be also being pastels, a floor brushing (ballerina) length, with a short veil and no train. At a less-
formal or second wedding, the bride may choose a long or short dress, or even a two-piece suit. A short veil may be very stylish paired with a classic pillbox
hat.

Flatter your figure with a dress that suits you. Take a trusted, honest sister or friend who has your best interests at heart for feedback. Try one of each basic
shape--princess, ball gown, and sheath and empire waist--to see which flatters you most. Check that you can walk, turn, sit and bend comfortably, as well as
lift your arms and hug loved ones without splitting a seam. Comfort and confidence are vital on this day of days.   

Shop at bridal boutiques or department stores for a wide array of styles. Try on a few designer gowns first so you recognize the quality, then choose a dress
based on your budget.   

Set a budget. Off-the-rack dresses can be found for $250 and up. Jessica McClintock has a large selection of moderately priced gowns. A simple custom-
made dress can be had for as little as $750 and can go as high as $10,000 for a Vera Wang, with many dresses in the lower third of that range.   

Ask when bridal stores are next having a sample sale. Be on the lookout for warehouse sales on discontinued styles, samples and overstocks.  

Make the deposit with a credit card. Get an itemized receipt spelling out every detail (manufacturer's and design name, number, price, color and size) and
stating that the deal is canceled if your dress isn't ready by a specified date.   

Budget for alterations, which can run $300 or more. Ask if pressing is included and if they'll store your dress until the big day. Also ask for recommendations
for cleaning and storing the dress.   

Scout local thrift shops for excellent buys. Bridal gowns have been worn only once, so providing they've been professionally cleaned, there's no problem.
Designer castoffs cost more, but you could find a real steal for under $100.   

Look for quality: beads sewn on rather than glued satin that doesn't feel so thin it might tear, a built-in petticoat or slip, and gloriously soft lace and detailing.
French lace is best; the cheap stuff is stiff.   

Not particularly sentimental? Then sell your dress.

Falling in love with a particular dress or style does not mean that it will flatter your figure. Ask for honest advice from someone who knows what they're talking
about.

Styles
The 2000-2004 wedding gown has primarily been a strapless bodice and full skirt. The 2005 styles are romantic with delicate lace, and ribbons and bows,
whilst the 2006 style is minimalist. An accent of color is also very popular. You will spend endless hours looking at hundreds of gowns and trying on at least 20
at the local bridal shop. Have fun and select one that makes you feel like a princess. If possible, when you try on gowns, take shoes that have a heel similar to
the height of the one you will wear, and bring a necklace for a more complete look.

Shapes & Sizes
Is n't’t it nice that each bride's shape and size is so unique? Here is a guide to help you find the gown that will accentuate everything about you.

The hourglass body shape is very well balanced from head to toe. This bride can wear anything she likes. If her hips are somewhat larger, then stay away from
a gown that is fitted at the hip.

The pear shaped body is small on top and larger on the bottom. The best gowns include one with a slight scooped neck and a full or semi-full ball gown. Try to
stay away from a low-cut bodice or a gown that is fitted at the hips or even straight.

The apple shaped body is large on top and equally large at the hip, and a non-defined waistline. Stay away from a scoop neck, a well-defined waist and a
straight gown. Try a gown with see-through sleeves, or one that is defined at the hips.

The inverted pear shaped body is large on top and very small at the hip. The best choice includes a full-skirt or semi-full skirt ball gown. See-through sleeves
also help balance a large bodice.

Colors
The traditional bride wears a long white or cream colored gown—thanks to the Victorian era. Don’t feel pressured to do the same! Be yourself. The latest in
style includes color! Use pinks, soft blues, gold or mint, purple or..............