How Much Will Your Wedding Cost? + Ways to Save!

One of the biggest challenges of planning a wedding is coming up with a budget. The cost of a wedding goes up exponentially if you don’t think about having a budget wedding. Don’t put your head-in-the-sand. Plan!

On average, couples in the United States spend more than $23,500 for their wedding. However, the majority of couples spend between $15,300 and $25,500 while their wedding budget is typically 50% less than the amount spent. Of course, the costs vary greatly from region to region.

This does not include cost for a honeymoon or engagement ring. Understanding average wedding costs now can help you with your wedding budget later. Staying within your budget is important.

First of all. . . who is paying for what? Talk with your families about who will pay for what: Some brides’ families still pick up the entire tab, but more and more groom’s families are participating too. Ask both of your families to commit to a specific dollar amount, and then add up all the contributions to begin planning your budget.

How much can YOU save? It may be smart to start saving before you start planning! Certainly as soon as you’re engaged, start putting aside as much of your income as you can for the wedding. TheKnot.com says, “Saving 20% of your monthly income is a good – though painful – goal. The longer your engagement, the more you’ll be able to sock away.”

Take lots of tume to think of some creative ways to reduce the cost of a wedding. Prioritize. What MUST you have that you cannot live without?

Avoid the high wedding season. Arizona has two wedding seasons. The majority of weddings in the Greater Phoenix area take place from March through May and October through December because the weather in the desert is perfect. Most of those weddings are outdoors at hotels, resorts, etc. Our slow season is June through August. Those are our hottest months. Most of those weddings are indoors. If you plan right you could save across the board – on limos, photographers and caterers, etc., – by getting married during one of the hotter months.

Take a close look at your guest list and location. Trimming the guest list to close family and friends can help. This will help slash your catering costs and save on invitations and even the number of centerpieces. If you figure it will cost $60 per guest for food, drinks, and so forth, you’ll save $3,000 by reducing your guest list by 50 people. Centerpieces, matching everything, dove releases, bows everywhere, etc, do not get remembered.

Brides who have an extravagant budget can expect to pay $6000 and up for a designer wedding dress custom made just for you. People don’t really care if you have a $3,000 dress or a $200 dress. Some brides are visiting second hand stores or are renting their wedding dresses. What matters is that you look good. Spend the most money on the important things; the rings, the DJ (who can do both the ceremony and the reception), the Minister, the photographer and a videographer come to mind.

There are two important areas of your wedding celebration where price should never be a factor. A mediocre Minister and a unenthusiastic DJ can wreak havoc at your wedding. A lackluster minister with a boring ceremony – like most of the others you’ve heard – can leave the guests cold and uninspired and if the DJ isn’t a true “entertainer” the party can crash and burn. Your wedding reception DJ should be considered your “Wedding Entertainment Director.” A great DJ determines whether your reception is a hit or a miss! The minister and the DJ should be the very best you can hire. I know its cliché, but you really do get what you pay for.

Perhaps the primary deciding factor should be who performs the most memorable and unique wedding ceremony for you and your guests and what other extras do they offer in their package that other ministers do not. You will enjoy the comfort and assurance of knowing you are contracting with a first-class minister who comes with professional experience, impeccable integrity, commendable references, a gentle and enthusiastic spirit and a subtle, but delightful sense of humor (Hmmm, sounds like a description of Larry James).

Skip the Friday and Saturday wedding. Some vendors will offer a discount if your wedding if you opt for a weekday wedding. And, don’t be offended if they don’t offer a discount. Some do. Some don’t. Have a friend do your hair and makeup. Skip the black-ties and go casual.

Make your own invitations or at least opt for the less expensive single-page invitations. Ditch the inserts. The extra paper can increase the postage. A recent wedding had a special party for the invited children before the wedding and the night ended with the children using crayons to make place settings on recycled paper. They are colorful and got lots of great comments from the guests.

Buy flowers that are in season. Cut out the favors. Offer beer, wine, and soft drinks instead of a full bar. Skip the champagne toast. Your reception can be the most expensive part of your wedding day. Not every wedding reception needs to feature sit-down dinner. A few receptions I’ve been to lately have skipped the full dinner in favor a cocktail reception with some drinks and a lot of appetizers, then dancing, etc. Or… consider a potluck or BBQ instead of a catered meal or a lunch reception with a light meal.

Don’t be afraid to ask your wedding vendors for ideas on cutting costs. Order a small one or two-tiered cake and then supplement cake with a larger sheet cake (served from the kitchen). No one will know the difference.

Save money for your honeymoon and register with a honeymoon registry. You don’t need a passport if you plan your honeymoon close to home. You can always plan an lavish getaway later. Second marriages often encourage their guests to donate to their favorite charitable cause. Remember to budget for tips for the vendors who do exception jobs.

Say no to the extras. You really don’t need wedding bubbles or embossed matchbooks or napkins. Weddings can be an opportunity to begin new traditions. Be creative and save. Plan a wedding where, the day after, you’re debt-free and can start your lives together. Do everything you can to cut costs so you don’t have to deal with the debt resulting from the wedding after the honeymoon. It’s best if you do not go into debt over your wedding. It’s not a great way to start a marriage.

While costs vary according to the type of wedding and geographical location, the typical breakdown of a wedding budget according to TheKnow.com is as follows:

The #1 must-do savings tip is to hire a wedding consultant. The consultant will do all the legwork for you, shop around for the best bargains, and use their network of vendors to get you the best insider deals.

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
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Nervous About the Big Day? Feeling Faint? Here’s What to Do.

Time to rise and shine! It’s your wedding day! Take a few deep breaths and take a couple of cat-like stretches. There is a lot going on today so let’s begin by getting rid of any anxiety or nervousness you may have that might affect you during the ceremony. You might have butterflies in your stomach and your legs may feel like they are turning to jelly.

It is only normal for the bride and groom to fell a bit nervous before the wedding. Nervousness is a state of mind: it occurs because of unpleasant thoughts, fears and worries that plague a person. A little nervousness can give you an edge. It can give you the energy you need to dig deep and do a really good job. Accept your nervousness. It doesn’t need to paralyze you.

Diminish all the negative thoughts that dwell in your head, and stop thinking about nervousness itself. What you think about and speak about, you bring about. The more you keep thinking about how nervous you are, the more you will be unable to let go of those feelings.

Focus! Be in the moment. It may not be easy but do your best. Relax. Breathe. Concentrate. With a little perseverance and confidence, you can Just know that everything will turn out fine. Be happy. Avoid medications, caffeine, alcohol and illegal drugs.

Normally we make blunders because we are nervous and we concentrate more on avoiding mistakes rather than using our skills to perform better. Remember, you can’t get anything wrong because the guests have no clue as to what you will be doing. Knowing that should give a boost to your self-confidence. If you make a mistake, don’t call attention to it. The guests are on your side. They want you to do well.

Plan your rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner two days before the wedding not the day before. This avoids two stressful days in a row and gives you a day of rest before the wedding. Often there is a wonderful party atmosphere at the rehearsal dinner and too much booze can really put a damper on the big day.

Planning a bachelor or bachelorette party? If you must party. . . plan your party a week or more before the wedding and behave yourself. You do not want to start your wedding day with a hangover or with the guilt of something that you know you should not have done.

Get to bed early the night before your wedding, or else you may have baggy, puffy circles under your red-rimmed eyes. Lack of food and sleep can also cause your blood pressure to drop. Take good care of yourself. Take a brisk five-minute walk. Sometimes the movement of your body will help release feelings of nervousness. Treat yourself to some alone time and relax with a warm bath and some hot tea. Meditate. Aroma therapy might help. Burn your favorite incense. Close your eyes and see the perfect wedding that you know is possible.

Even if you don’t ordinarily eat breakfast, eat a good breakfast and substitute healthy juices for coffee. You’re standing at the alter, about to say your vows, and all of a sudden you hear a growl. Opps! Then it dawns on you that it’s coming from your own tummy. Be sure to have a very light snack before you head down the aisle.

It’s important to keep your energy up. Crackers and cheese and a Pepsi are better than nothing. Eat some fruit, such as bananas, apricots, and nectarines, which are high in potassium. This keeps your electrolytes balanced and helps give you energy. Eat before you dress, or cover up your clothes to avoid any accidental food stains.

It never pays to be undernourished at the wedding. You will look tired and drawn, and you could faint if you don’t get enough breakfast. Eating before the wedding will give you energy for your big day and you won’t feel light-headed.

Groom’s usually sweat buckets while some brides (and grooms) have been known to faint.

Feeling faint at the ceremony? Swaying back and forth is one of the signs that someone may be close to fainting. Reach out. Let someone know if you can. The first thing you do is support yourself. Hold tight to the groom or someone nearby. Remember to breathe. This is important. One on the tricks I learned as a professional speaker was to breathe in slowly through my nose and out slowly through my mouth if I was a little nervous during the introduction to my speech. You have to think about breathing that way and when you think about something other than what you are nervous about it has a calming effect that can help you gain your composure. Keep breathing like this a few moments until you begin to feel better.

IMPORTANT: Do not lock your knees. Remember to slowly shift your weight from one foot to the other. Never stand perfectly still. Keeping your legs stiff while standing for a long period of time can interfere with your circulation and cause the blood to pool in your lower extremities. The brain needs the oxygen that the heart pumps to it. Locking your knees slows that process down. If the blood has trouble getting to your brain, you may be in danger of passing out. Keep your knees loose and shift your weight occasionally, especially if you start to feel any numbness. Slight movements will help keep the blood flowing.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids during the day, especially if it’s hot or excessively dry. Stick with water, ginger ale, or other clear liquids in case there is an accidental spill. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates you and can make you dizzy or light-headed. The effects will be stronger if you haven’t eaten much. Steer clear of caffeine.

Never take any new medication. Well-meaning friends may offer you sedatives or nerve pills to help calm you on your big day, but don’t be persuaded.

Face the minister with your backs to the guest – at least, at first. In my ceremonies, about 8 to 9 minutes into the ceremony I ask the bride and groom to face each other. For those who do not like to speak or be in front of people, this gives you a little time to get used to standing there. Look at the minister or at each other – not at the guests. Enjoy the moment. Savor the connection you’re making with the person you want to be with, and do your best to forget all the rest.

Choose temperature-appropriate clothing. In Arizona, it’s very hot during the summer. Most of the weddings in June, July and August are indoors or in the late evening. Avoid long-sleeved dresses and bulkier synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe.

If you’re getting married outdoors in Arizona, make your attire matches the climate. Go with silk or linen and other light fabrics that let the air in against your skin. Skip the tuxes for the guys and consider linen suits or go with something even more casual.

Read, “Getting Married in Arizona? Here’s the Latest Scoop!“

If you are planning on saying some of your own vows, remember this: DO NOT try to memorize them. Write what you are going to say on an index card and when the time comes, have the minister hand you your notes. You may want to write in a little humor. Humor has a tendency to break the tension and help you cope with some of the anxiety and nervousness you may feel.

The butterflies in your stomach usually begin to disappear as you walk down the aisle and see the man of your dreams waiting for you at the altar.

Just for fun, take this quiz from “The Wedding Book” to see what type of bride you are! What Kind of Bride are You?

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

Grandma Betty, Thank You for Your Thoughtful Wedding Gift!

After the wedding and the honeymoon, you have one final chore… writing “thank-you” notes.

The myth that a bride has up to a year to write all her “thank-you” notes is not true. Be prompt in your replies. Start writing “thank-yous” as soon as gifts start arriving. This may mean before the wedding, so be prepared.

While many etiquette experts say that brides have up to five weeks after the wedding, it will be less daunting if you do them a few at a time. According to etiquette guru Amy Vanderbilt, a “thank-you” note should be written within two to three weeks of receiving a gift – six to eight weeks at the very most.

TheKnot.com says, “The rule is that you’re supposed to get “thank-yous” out for gifts received before the wedding within two weeks of their arrival; after the wedding, within a month after you return from the honeymoon. Well, it’s a nice thing to aspire to, but I say if you get ‘em all done before (okay, around) your two-month anniversary, you’ll be happy and so will your guests.”

Many brides end up getting stuck with this job. Grooms are equally responsible for this task (no matter how poor his penmanship may be) as they will be receiving 50 percent of the benefit from these lovely gifts. If you take turns writing, your “thank-you” notes will be mailed in no time. One option: He writes to his family, you write to yours, and you divide your list of friends. Another option: One writes and the other addresses and stuffs the envelopes.

Is your hand getting cramps just thinking about it? Set aside some time to reflect about your wedding, pour yourself a glass of wine (or not), get comfy somewhere and begin writing. Set a goal to write 10 “thank-you” notes a day during the week and 20 a day on the weekend until you are finished.

Notes are to be handwritten and personal. People cared enough to shop specifically for you and you should take the opportunity to thank them not only for their gifts, but their attendance on your special day. If the gift was money, it would be nice to mention how you plan to use it. Avoid going into too much detail. “Your generosity will be helpful when we buy our new home,” or “We are grateful that your generosity helped us have a terrific honeymoon,” is a simple way to let the person know how their gift will be used, without going overboard.

OurMarriage.com says, “Never, Never, Never, send a pre-printed “thank-you” card. When you send a pre-printed card, you are telling the person receiving the “thank-you” that their gift didn’t mean enough to you to even receive a mention in your note. A warm personalized, handwritten note, regardless how brief, tells the guest how much you appreciated the gift and how it will be cherished for years to come. Handwritten notes express sincerity.”

Use your invitation list as a handy address book and checklist. “Thank-you” notes should be addressed to the individual(s) who signed your gift card. In the case of a gift from a family, the envelope can be addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Larry James, and the salutation can be “Dear Cheryl and Larry.” You can make reference to the remaining family members in the body of the note: “Please extend my thanks to Kelly and Travis, and let them know how much we are enjoying the wonderful steak knives.”

Keep your notes short and sweet; don’t go over the top, or try to be cutesy and creative. Be brief. The best message will be very direct and will be as specific as possible. It’s okay to repeat certain phrases, since family and friends won’t be sharing their “thank-you” notes with each other. Classy note cards and the perfect, high-quality pen might even make the task more inviting.

Start each note with a heartfelt “thank you,” mentioning the gift by name. Here are a few “thank you” phrases that might come in handy:

• We’ll think of you every time I look at it (or use it).
• What an original gift.
• Thank you for the beautiful card and a present on top of that!
• Thanks for not only taking the time to think of me, but to send (or bring) a gift as well.
• Words cannot express my gratitude.
• Your generosity overwhelms us.
• You can have no idea how much your gift means to us.
• Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

Consider adding a line telling invited guests who were unable to attend the wedding how sorry you were that they couldn’t be there with you.

The real key to writing “thank-yous” is to stay organized – starting when you receive the gift. Keep track of all gifts received in a notebook, your computer, or on index cards. This will help tremendously when you send your “thank-you” notes.

Have a friend present as you open your gifts or give that duty to the husband. Keep excellent notes. They can write down what comes from whom as you open them. You should also hand write a special note inside each “thank-you” card, thanking the guest for their thoughtfulness and mentioning the appropriateness of the gift you’ve received. When you receive more than one gift from someone, each gift must be recognized with its own “thank-you” card.

Every time you open a gift or letter, write down:

• Who it’s from
• What is was
• When you received it
• Whether you’ve written a note yet
• When it was sent

If you dislike a gift or if something is not to your taste, you should still show appreciation for the thought that went into selecting it for you. Never mention that you plan to return it.

Put some thought into selecting the perfect stamp for your notes. It will make a “thank-you” note even more delightful to open. The current “Love” stamp would add a little romance to your notes. Be sure to put your new return address on all “thank-you” cards. Your guests will appreciate having your current and correct address.

It’s good to remember to send “thank-yous” to the maid of honor or matron of honor, the bridesmaids, flower girl, ring bearer, groomsman, best man, ushers, personal attendants, the wedding coordinator, the minister and anyone else that helped make your wedding day special.

Remember to send “thank-you” notes to friends and relatives who arrange showers and parties for you.

As long as your gratitude is sincere and your message timely, your note is sure to be received warmly. Always remember, an imperfect “thank-you” note that comes with heartfelt sentiment is better than a perfect “thank-you” note that was never written.

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

Grooming the Groom! Staying on Track for the Big Day!

Alright, guys! Listen up!

When I talk to Brides in pre-wedding interviews, I heard women who seem overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring for all of the details it takes to have a memorable wedding. It’s not just “her” wedding. It’s your wedding too! She needs your assistance! So. . . listen carefully.

You need to take an active interest in your wedding. Pitch in. Find out what you can do to help and don’t let your sweetheart bear all the responsibility. Put her on a pedestal. Let her be the center of attention. She deserves it. Never let her hear you say, “It doesn’t matter to me. Do whatever you want.” Your Bride will never fully understand why the wedding isn’t as big a deal to you as it is to her. Don’t bother trying to explain. This is the day to be her Prince Charming!

Roll up your sleeves and get busy. Wedding overload can be a real problem. Divide up jobs in advance – preferably, according to which parts you’re most interested in, then agree to run everything past each other before final decisions are made. Make it a joint venture. Attend the meetings with the minister, disc jockey, photographer, etc., as a team. You are in this together, so act like it.

Be romantic. You can do it. Leave a love note in her room on the morning of the wedding. Wake her up to her favorite song. Romantic surprises make the big day memorable. Be her personal chauffeur for a day of wedding errands. (P.S. Never stop being romantic. She will love you for it.) Send her mother flowers with a note telling her how happy you are to be marring her daughter. Take her father to lunch.

Pay attention to the details. Spit-shine your shoes. Gas the car. Several days before the wedding, get a haircut. Preparation is the key. Be ready for anything. No wedding is perfect. Today is the most stressful day of the Bride’s life. Roll with the punches and do what you can to keep your pretty lady from being stressed. Leave nothing to chance. Minimize the stress factor when the final countdown begins. Plan to do nothing the day of your wedding but get up, relax, have a light snack, then head to the venue to tie the knot.

It is the Groom’s responsibility to pay for the Bride’s bouquet. However, at the end of the evening the tradition is for her to throw it to the single women at the reception. A lovely touch might be to surprise her with another bouquet as your new wife in the honeymoon suite.

Don’t wait until the week before your wedding to figure out what you’re going to wear. Short notice doesn’t work. Your formal wear should be purchased or reserved about 3 months before the wedding. Make sure you have decided beforehand if you will rent or purchase a suit and also find out which style will suit you best. Your formal wear should be purchased or reserved about 3 months before the wedding.

Send a detailed e-mail to your Groomsmen filling them in on the relevant details about the formal wear. Let them know when and where (include a map) to get fitted for their tuxes. Remind them to return the tuxes the day after the wedding to avoid annoying late fees. Keep your sweetheart in the e-mail loop to let her know that you’ve got everything under control.

It’s you and your family’s responsibility to organize the “Rehearsal Dinner.” Plan it carefully. Consult the Bride. Make room for a few surprises for the Bride. Plan ahead. Have flowers delivered to the restaurant prior to the dinner and have the waitress bring them out with a special “romantic” card for the Bride that you have signed and a couple of drinks for a toast. Choose your words carefully.

Be a buffer. If your mother is calling your fiancé every hour to talk about the wedding, you run the risk of major family conflict with you stuck in the middle. Your mission is to keep the peace. Call your mother and let her know that while you appreciate her interest, input and excitement, it’s your wedding and she needs to give you two some space.

The Best Man is a reflection of your judgment, your background and your character. Decide who is going to be your best man quickly, tell him what is expected and make sure he can honor his commitment. Make sure that you tell anyone who might be offended by your choice before word gets round. Make sure he has envelopes ready to present the gratuities to the minister, disc jockey, etc., at the wedding. Tip for superb service responsibly.

You probably paid for the open bar. However that is not a license to get blasted into next week. Tequila shots with your buddies are out. Drink responsibly.

Whatever you do, do not have your stag the night before the wedding. Better yet, skip this rite of passage and earn a few extra points with your Bride. If you must have a stag night, have it the weekend before the wedding and behave yourself.

You will be expected to say a few brief words at the reception. Keep them short and to the point. Say how happy you are to be marrying the “girl of your dreams,” say a few “thank yous” and sit down. It doesn’t have to long and flowery. Practice. Remember, practice does not make you perfect, it makes you better.

Next. . . live happily ever after!

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

S-M-I-L-E. . . A Little Wedding & Relationship Humor!

During the wedding rehearsal, the groom approached the pastor with an unusual offer:

“Look, I’ll give you $100 if you’ll change the wedding vows. When you get to the part where I’m to promise to ‘love, honor and obey’ and ‘forsaking all others, be faithful to her forever,’ I’d appreciate it if you’d just leave that part out.” He passed the minister a $100 bill and walked away satisfied.

It is now the day of the wedding, and the bride and groom have moved to that part of the ceremony where the vows are exchanged. When it comes time for the groom’s vows, the pastor looks the young man in the eye and says:

“Will you promise to prostrate yourself before her, obey her every command and wish, serve her breakfast in bed every morning of your life and swear eternally before God and your lovely wife that you will not ever even look at another woman, as long as you both shall live?”

The groom gulped and looked around, and said in a tiny voice, “Yes,” then leaned toward the pastor and hissed: “I thought we had a deal.”

The pastor put a $100 bill into the groom’s hand and whispered: “She made me a better offer.”

•    •    •

While enjoying an early morning breakfast in a northern Arizona cafe, four elderly ranchers were discussing everything from cattle, horses, and weather to how things used to be in the “good old days”.

Eventually the conversation moved on to their spouses. One gentleman turned to the fellow on his right and asked, “Roy, aren’t you and your bride celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary soon?”

“Yup, we sure are,” Roy replied.

“Well, are you gonna do anything special to celebrate?” another man asked.

The old gentleman pondered this for a moment, then replied, “For our 25th anniversary, I took the missus to Tucson. For our 50th, I’m thinking about going down there again and picking her up.”

•    •    •

Jacob, age 92, and Rebecca, age 89, are all excited about their decision to get married. They go for a stroll to discuss the wedding and on the way they pass a drugstore. Jacob suggests they go in. Jacob addresses the man behind the counter:

“Are you the owner?”
The pharmacist answers “Yes.”
“We’re about to get married. Do you sell heart medication?”
“Of course we do.”
“How about medicine for circulation?”
“All kinds.”
“Medicine for rheumatism, scoliosis?”
“Definitely.”
“How about Viagra?”
“Of course.”
“Medicine for memory problems, arthritis, Jaundice?”
“Yes, a large variety. The works.”
“What about vitamins, sleeping pills, Geritol, antidotes for Parkinson’s disease?”
“Absolutely.”
“You sell wheelchairs and walkers?”
“All speeds and sizes.”
Jacob says to the pharmacist: “We’d like to register here for our wedding gifts, please.”

•    •    •

Dear John,

I have been unable to sleep since I broke off our engagement. Won’t you forgive and forget? Your absence is breaking my heart. I was such a fool. No one can take your place. I love you.

All my love,
Kelly xxxxoooxxxx

P.S. Congratulations on winning this week’s lottery.

•    •    •

A newlywed left work one Friday afternoon but, being payday, rather than going home, he stayed out the entire weekend partying with the boys and spending his entire paycheck.

Finally appearing at home on Sunday night, he was confronted by a very angry wife and was barraged for nearly two hours with a tirade befitting his actions.

Eventually, his bride stopped the nagging and simply said to him, “How would you like it if you didn’t see me for two or three days?”

“That would be perfectly fine with me,” he replied.

Monday went by and he didn’t see his wife. Tuesday and Wednesday came and went with the same results.

By Thursday, the swelling had gone down just enough to where he could see her out of the corner of his right eye.

Want more wedding & relationship jokes. . . click here!

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

To Have a Guest Book. . . or Not!

Instead, of a traditional guest book at your wedding, consider enlarging an engagement photo and setting it in a wide matte with a frame. The photo should already be in the frame as some guests may write close to the edge and when framed you won’t be able to see all of what they wrote. There should be pens close by, so your guests can sign around the picture on the matte. This makes a very nice photo for the entry way of the new couple’s home.

More recently some couples are opting for a metal-type photo matte that comes with a special pen that actually engraves when the guests write on it.

It is also smart to assign someone to stand near the photo or guest book to remind guest to sign.

Another idea would be to have someone designated to take a Polaroid® picture of each guest as they enter. Have them sign the back of the picture with their name and address, then place them in a photo album. However, this idea can slow down the entry of the guests and can delay the start of the ceremony.

Also read: “Lights! Camera! Click, Click, Click, Click!“

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

Marriage License Guide for Greater Phoenix

To get a marriage license in the Greater Phoenix area, specifically Maricopa County, an engaged couple must appear in person together at one of the Justice Court offices listed below and each must present a photo ID. You may be required to provide a driver’s license as proof of age. You must appear in person to obtain a marriage license in Maricopa County. Marriage licenses are usually not available online.

The fee for a marriage license, which is valid throughout Arizona, is $72.00 payable by cash or check with a driver’s license or bank guarantee card or credit card. If you are purchasing a license at the Justice Courts, they accept checks, money orders, or cashiers checks. No cash or credit cards are accepted.

A copy of a divorce decree is not required. No blood test is required.

It is recommended that you also purchased one or more “Certified” copies of the marriage license (about $26.00 each) to be sent to you after the license is filed by the Officiant with the Clerk of the Court.

Social Security requires it from a Bride who will be changing her name. It will be sent to you about 6 to 8 weeks (it could be less depending upon which month you get married) after the County Court Clerk records it. Larry James will file the license the first business day after the wedding. For directions to the North Phoenix Social Security Card Center, click here.

If you have a “passport” and your name will be or has been legally changed due to marriage, you will need a certified copy of your marriage license to submit along with one or more official forms to have your name changed on your passport. For more information and links to download the forms you will need, click here.

You will receive your marriage license and can be married on the same day you apply for it. An unused marriage license expires one year from the date of purchase.

If you are under the age of 18, you must either have a notarized parental consent form or have your parents accompany you, present the proper identification, and sign the parental consent form in front of the clerk issuing your license.

If you are age 16 – 17 identification and one of the following documents showing proof of age is needed: a) certified copy of birth certificate; b) current driver’s license; c) state or military I.D. card; or d) current passport

If you are age 15 or under, you must also have a court order. To obtain a court order you must contact Conciliation Court at: 602-506-3296.

Most Justice Court offices are open until 5:00 p.m. MST, however you are encouraged to arrive by 4 p.m. to complete the paperwork.

Click here for information on “Arizona Covenant Marriage License Requirements.”

Because days, times and fees are subject to change without notice, you are encouraged to call to verify days and times of office hours and form of acceptable payment before you go.

For a list of all of the places in the Greater Phoenix area where you can get a Marriage License, click here. For information in all other states, click here.

Also read: “Getting Married in Arizona? Here’s the Latest Scoop!“

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

Reception Not at the Wedding Venue?

Having a reception at a place other than where the wedding is taking place?

Remember to put a map in the invitations. It’s also a good idea to put a map to the reception in the ceremony program (that is, if everyone is invited to the reception).

Ask the post office for a selection of romantic stamps from which to choose. Ask to see the newest “Love” stamps.

Spritz your invitations with your favorite fragrance.

Be sure to mail invitations six to eight weeks before the big day; be sure to include a deadline (of two to three weeks before the wedding) on your reply cards! If you haven’t received all of your RSVPs by 15 days before the wedding, designate a family member of friend to telephone those who have not responded.

Don’t send your invitations out on a rainy day, especially if you plan to use a public mailbox. All that dampness may damage the paper and cause the ink to blur.

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.

Add Larry James to your Facebook page: http://www.Facebook.com/larry.james
Follow Larry’s “once daily” Relationship Tweet at: http://www.Twitter.com/larryjames
Follow Larry’s “Relationship BLOG” at: http://CelebrateLove.wordpress.com/

The Best Use of 10% of Your Budget: Hire a Coordinator!

Amy Bacon, Guest Author –

Do you need a Wedding Planner? The answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

Be realistic about the time you really have to devote to putting together the sort of wedding you want. If you have lots of spare time, you may be able to pull it off. Interesting enough, most Brides simply don’t think they can afford a planner (silly Brides!), and it’s the one vendor they WISH they’d spent a portion of their budget on. Ask a recent bride, she’ll tell you the same!

Here are some good reasons we believe that tell the story of why you should hire a wedding planner:

• You’re planning your wedding in another city or state.

• You have special needs, such as finding a place of worship that will accommodate a mixed- religion ceremony, or would like to track down a caterer who can prepare a diabetic-friendly, or vegan/vegetarian menu.

• Both you and your fiancé work long hours and/or travel frequently for business, and you want a big, blow out event; but who can make the time for all the detail work AND end up a nice woman, when it’s all said and done?

• You don’t particularly like hassling with little details; you’re a “big picture” person.

• You want someone else to do the leg work for you! As an example: your coordinator/planner, after spending time with you knows what your budget and needs are and sets appointments with vendors they think will be a good match. You don’t waste your time looking for vendors by going on appointments that are a total waste of time based on price points, or your budget/vision.

• You’d like to be able to purely enjoy your day with no worries regarding any issues that will undoubtedly transpire.

A wedding planner can actually SAVE you money – Most planners will be able to get you discounts with different vendors that they work with on a regular basis (baker for your cake or cupcakes, catering, photography, flowers, videographer, officiates, and even at venues)!

Brides: You need a “Day-Of” coordinator; you just don’t realize it!

Why? Well firstly, you’re hosting the biggest party of your life! (How many people can you imagine would throw a formal, sit-down party for over 50 people and not hire help? Exactly!). Secondly, we know how perfect you’d like everything to be and we know after years of experience, a Bride cannot sanely be in 8 places at one time and truly enjoy her day. Thirdly, your choice of reception site may have a Catering Manager, but it’s really not her job to be sure you stay on schedule or to wrangle!

Our “Day-Of” Wedding Consulting Service will afford you a sense of control and ease, allowing you the opportunity to relax, enjoy and be in the moment:

• Complete oversight for your Rehearsal and Wedding Day

• On-site meetings prior to the Wedding to ensure placement of flowers, gift books, etc

• We’ll keep you completely on Schedule the Day-Of

• We’ll make sure each attendant knows their role for the ceremony

• Ring Bearer and Flower Girl Tutoring

We communicate with every contracted Vendor prior and the day of, ensuring all requirements are met. They will know exactly where to be and what the bride’s and grooms expectations are.

We’ll make sure your photographer and videographer get the Photos and Reel from your Shot Lists, etc.

Cuing the music, the procession and more.

Why Hiring a Wedding Planner is imperative…

While you may not need someone to assist with the menu or your dress or color choices or any number of your dream desires for your wedding day, we strongly advise hiring a “Day-Of” coordinator, who at the very least will assist you for some months prior to and the Day-Of; we’re here to assist and as much or little as you like!

What is a “Day-Of” Coordinator? For example: a month out we will meet with you, help finalize contracts and your desires for placement and decoration; the time line on your wedding day and so much more. We make all the follow up phone calls, we do all the organizing so that on the Day-Of your wedding, you’ll have one or two main people (depending upon the size of your wedding), to answer any and all questions, maintain the day’s flow and to be sure you and your groom really enjoy your day.

If you’re thinking you can handle all this yourself; consider that it may sound easy; certainly seems like something you can handle and it very well may be, but if you want people running up to you the whole day asking:

• “What time will the limo be here?”

• “Aunt Jo and Uncle Charles from NYC are lost; how do they get here?”

• “Little Eric, where’s the ring pillow?”

• “When are we supposed to line up?”

• “Where’s Tiffany; your Mom, your Cousin Ilene, the Catering Manager?”

• “What time are you going to throw the bouquet?”

• “Should we ask Earl (who drank too much and is disrupting guests) to leave?”

• …and more; then by all means, run your wedding day yourself!

If, however, you’d like to be kept out of this mix, free to spend time with your attendants, your guests and your new husband, then please reconsider. Even if you’re the “Anti-Bride”, there are still lots of things you’ll really want help with and with the cost of an average “Day-Of” coordinator being typically less than approximately 10% of your overall budget; it’s really affordable. We can save you money, too! Ask us how.

We will be sure everything runs smoothly, that you are insulated from the stress that transpires on your Wedding day; when it’s all about you, not about everyone and everything else.

Copyright © 2009 – Mrs. Amy Bacon. Reprinted with Permission. You will find Mrs. Hancock’s Wedding Planners and Consultants, kind, professional, knowledgeable, helpful and excited to be of service. They won’t break your budget either! Please contact their office at 602-234-1200 and speak with Mrs. Hancock or Mrs. Amy Bacon for a free consultation. Visit their Website at: www.MrsHancocks.com

Testing! Testing!

Test your wedding day shoes!

If you think you will have an opportunity to sit down during your wedding day. . . forget it! It’s not likely.

Most likely you will be on your feet throughout the day and into the night. . . dancing the night away and greeting family and friends that you haven’t seen for a while.

Be sure to break in any new shoes you plan to wear long before the wedding. If they are a tight fit, visit a shoe shop and have them stretched a little.

The last thing you need is sore feet on your honeymoon.

Get lots of rest the night before your wedding. Consider having your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner at least “two” days before your wedding if possible. That separates two stressful days and gives you time to catch up on any last minute things you may need to do.

It’s also a good idea because sometimes the groom and the groomsmen like to head out after the rehearsal dinner for a little social lubricant (if you know what I mean). Hangovers are not a good idea to have on your wedding day. Having your rehearsal dinner “two” days before your wedding give everyone a day to recover.

Here’s a great idea for your honeymoon.

Copyright © 2009 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s Wedding Website. Larry James is a non-denominational minister and performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere! Call to check availabilty: 480-998-9411 or 800-725-9223. You will find more than 445 pages of Wedding ideas, tips (90 tips and growing), ceremonies, and more at: http://www.celebrateintimateweddings.com. Check Larry’s availability.

Subscribe to Larry’s FREE monthly “LoveNotes for Lovers” eZINE. Contact: CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com, P.O. Box 12695, Scottsdale, AZ 85267-2695. – CelebrateIntimateWeddings.com

NOTE: All articles, “LoveNotes” and wedding tips listed in this Wedding BLOG are available for reprint in magazines, periodicals, newsletters, newspapers, eZINEs, on the Internet or on your own Website. Click here for details.