Delightfully Wed

Blue Monday - Coolin' Off!

2010-08-23T10:39:00.000-05:00

Nothing like a cool relaxing dip in the pool on a hot North Carolina day. We were visiting North Carolina on a hot summer day in July. Kyndall (7 months old) thoroughly enjoyed her swim in the "big" pool - kept everyone entertained. Lots of pictures, laughs and good times. Lots of blue in this picture - I love her big blue eyes! I'm not sure who enjoyed the swimming the most - Kyndall or Pappy. Lots of splashing going on! You'll notice the water all over her face - she loved it!

Please visit Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday posts.

Freebies for the Bride!

2010-06-29T11:28:00.002-05:00

Who doesn’t like giveaways and contests! Lucky Bride Giveaways offers many giveaways all in one place. Read about them, choose the ones that interest you, follow the link & enter. This is a good way to win items that you may need for your wedding, helping with your budget. And you may find new places to shop or an item that you have been searching for in every place you already know.

If you’re planning a wedding, I know you’ve been looking around for ideas the Bridal Tweet forum has valuable, useful information. You can create a profile page, a blog, connect with vendors, search for a venue, and look at pictures of cakes, flowers, or dresses. You may find an item you’re looking for or the answer to a question or problem by joining in or reading the discussions. Posting pictures and videos allows you to share your ideas with others and looking at someone else’s pictures may spark an idea for your wedding.

Take advantage of all the free advice and information available by searching out forums and blogs. The ones I’ve mentioned are not the only ones available – do a google search and you may be surprised what you find.

Ten Things to Consider When Choosing a Venue.

2010-06-09T12:44:00.000-05:00

1. Do you want an indoor or outdoor wedding?
2. If outdoor, does the venue offer a back-up plan for inclement weather, such as an room inside?
3. If outdoor, does the venue provide chairs or do you need to rent them elsewhere?
4. Is the venue large enough to accommodate your guests comfortably?
5. Are tables & chairs provided for the reception or will you need to make other arrangements?
6. Does the venue allow outside catering or do you have to use their food service?
7. If alcohol is being offered - does the venue have this service available or do they allow alcohol on the premises? Are you allowed to provide your own bar/bartender?
8. If it’s an indoor venue and you want a DJ or band – is there enough room for them to set up and the guests to dance?
9. If you want an all night party, you will need to choose a venue that doesn’t want you out by 10:00 pm.
10. Who’s responsible for clean up – the venue or you?

These are some questions you will need to ponder before selecting a venue. The most beautiful, perfect place may not work if it is not large enough or does not have the features that you need. Keep in mind, it is your day and you should have everything you way – but, if it is 100° and you have you heart set on an outdoor wedding your guests may be very uncomfortable. This could cause them to leave early and put an end to the revelry that you have planned. There are ways around this and we will discuss this in another post.

Mrs. Sterlings Pampered Bride Gift Box Giveaway

2010-06-06T14:39:00.002-05:00

Getting married? Beginning to feel the stress of planning your wedding, making sure every detail is just as you want? You could probably use a little relaxation and pampering at this point – take some time for yourself, Mrs. Sterlings is giving away the Pampered Bride Gift Box this month.

The Pampered Bride Gift Box includes a Champagne Sugar Bath Bomb, Amber Romance Body Lotion and Evening Primrose Cuticle Butter and a Champagne Lip Balm. All of these items are nestled in a clear gift box tied with a satin ribbon.

The drawing will be June 20th - follow this link to enter http://www.mrssterlings.com/pampered_bride_giveaway.htm.

You may be interested in pampering your attendants or some of your special guests. That’s a great idea! Everyone loves to be made feel that they are special. Your guests will appreciate and remember a gift of bath and body.

Mrs. Sterlings is offering a special right now – The Pampered Bride Gift Box FREE – you pay shipping only of $6.95 and you can still enter to win the free Giveaway Box. This link will take you directly to the special offer http://www.mrssterlings.com/pampered_bride_gift_box_special_offer.htm or you may get to the special offer by going to enter for the giveaway and scrolling to the bottom of the page - click on special offer.

No purchase is necessary, but you must enter for a chance to win The Pampered Bride Gift Box. This link http://www.mrssterlings.com/pampered_bride_giveaway.htm will take right to the page with the form for the necessary information to enter you into the giveaway. Remember the drawing will be June 20th.

Let Mrs. Sterlings create that special thank you for guests and attendants. From wedding favors, bridal shower favors, bridal attendant gifts to welcome gift bags -we can help you create that perfect gift.
Quantity discounts are available. They can be customized to match wedding or bridal shower colors along with fragrance choice. You may email us for details at mrssterlings@netscape.net.

Place an order at Mrs. Sterlings and receive a Complimentary Pampered Bride gift box with your order.

Sailboat Soaps Used as Baby Shower Favors

2010-04-29T23:02:00.005-05:00

Many of our customers are using soap favors for baby shower favors, birthday party favors or bridal shower favors as well as wedding reception favors. Terry Smith of Falmouth, MA purchased the sailboat soaps in light blue - scented blueberry for a baby shower. The soaps come enclosed in the recloseable ziptop bags.

We were excited when Terry sent us a picture of the way she used the sailboat soaps. We are happy that she wants to show you her creation. What a fantastic idea she had! A nice tray filled with sand - add the sailboat soaps - assorted sea shells - sea glass (assorted glass pebbles) - and you have an attractive way to offer the favors to your guests.

Thank you, Terry for choosing our store and for sharing your wonderful creation with us!

Posting our Customer's Uses for our Products

2010-04-17T12:30:00.009-05:00

In the past, we have been blessed by our customers sending us pictures of their uses for our products. We have never posted them on the blog, but that is now changing. If you are or have been a customer and wish to have a picture of your wedding, party, shower, or event posted displaying the use of one of our products - please let us know. If you have our email, send it to us. If you have lost our email, post here leaving your email and we will contact you.

One of our customers, purchased the Beach Soap Tub Collection to be used as favors at a baby shower. This favor is enclosed in a cello bag tied with jute rope. She has a unique way of using them and we will be posting it after the shower in May.

Another customer purchased the sailboat soaps in light blue to be used as favors at a baby shower. Many people are using nontraditional, creative and unique favors as token of their thanks for attending their shower or event. These soaps are enclosed in a resealable plastic ziptop bag - you may wish to attach a header with info pertaining to the event or a thank you header or give them as they are.

There are many uses for decorative soaps (besides keeping them for yourself to liven up your powder room!).

Looking forward to posting pictures so others may get a great idea to use or may be inspired by someone else's idea.

Happy Saturday to you!

2010-04-17T12:15:00.003-05:00

Hope your day is filled with sunshine and fun things to do abound. It has been a while since I've visited the blog. Seems like I tend to get bogged down in every day living and by night the blogging brain cells are asleep. So, just a little update to let you know what is going on in our world and what we have in mind for the future.

Designing new products is high on the list, once we get past the busy bridal season. Not complaining - I love the busy season.

We are no longer on ebay due to the ever rising costs of doing business on their site. A customer called us that had conducted business with us on ebay and was elated to find that we are still in business. I assure you we are going strong! Our website is in the process of being updated - this may be a long process as the webmaster has many things going on. We are offering products on Etsy and Artfire. You may find us on these sites by searching for Delightfullywed.

Our newest work in progress is a spinoff of our main website - Favor of my Heart. We will be offering some unique and elegant favors on this site. It is definitely a work in progess, so if you visit please keep this in mind.

We will be putting samples in the Snowberry Creek Sample Boxes for anyone who wishes to sample some of our decorative soaps.

We are adding decorative bar soap favors to our line-up on the website. You may decide not to give them for favors, but to keep them for yourself. We have many new designs and sizes available. Now to get the pictures and get them posted! I keep a big dose of motivation and a swift kick in the rear to get me in gear!

I going to make an extra effort to post more on the blog and look for interesting places for weddings, honeymoons, and services offered in these spots. I will be on the lookout for any contests, giveaways or freebies for the brides as I know times are tight and we need to save where we can.

Blue Monday - Exploring Ft. Walton Beach

2010-01-25T00:07:00.010-06:00

Many people think of lying on the beach in the sand while visiting the coast. We visited in Dec., the week before Christmas. There weren't many people out and about, so we had the beach pretty much to ourselves for walking, sitting, etc. I had always wanted to visit the beach in the winter.

I was not disappointed - we had a wide range of weather during our visit. They experienced a "cold snap" according to a local. It was still quite pleasant to us, although we did wear a jacket in the evening. The wind was a little blustery one day & we had the scary experience of being in tornado warnings one afternoon. But the storms didn't last long and we saw one of the most beautiful sunsets afterwards. I will share them at a later date.

I must tell you of our visit to Wal-Mart. What vacation is complete without a visit to the local Wal-Mart. This just happened to be the day of the storms. As we are leaving the condo, the rain begins. Good thing the umbrellas are still in the car! We take them into Wal-Mart as a precautionary measure....We shop & find all of the essentials (and a few nonessentials) that we will need for our stay. After checking out, we notice a large group congregated in the entrance. As we approach, we see that we will not be able to stand there as it is full and it is raining...raining heavily! Finally we get the umbrellas up & decide to make a dash for it! You've got three women with umbrellas, purses and bags trying to make a dash for the truck....to find that they can't locate the truck! Oh no!!!! The wind is whipping, we are getting drenched...searching rows, upon rows to find the gray truck. My umbrella is caught by the wind. It is turned inside out - fills with water - then the wind catches it - turns it back down and you guess it....water flows like a waterfall over my head...numerous times. The water was very cold, so each time I screeched very loudly! So during the torrential downpour with whipping winds, three women running to and fro..laughing like lunatics and looking like drowned rats have people wondering what they are doing. Finally, we locate the truck! We'll never forget that shopping trip. We made it back to the condo...took off our clothes and put them in the dryer...wondering why we had taken such care to get ready that morning. Sorry no pictures of the three drowned rats!

Catholic Church

Calm Ocean

I think he liked posing for us.

A bit of a wave.

Sunset with a hint of blue sky.

Interesting column. Thousands of seashells.

Visit Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday posts.

John Deere Green

2010-01-13T23:42:00.003-06:00

We happen to love John Deere Equipment - many farms would not be complete without their John Deere tractor and then you have all of the logging operations that depend upon John Deere for their equipment needs.

We have created our version of the John Deere cake topper - Down on the Farm. These toppers have been quite popular for groom's cakes, wedding cakes, birthday cakes and some people have wanted them to add in with a centerpiece.

If you love John Deere green and need a cake topper for your special day - we hope that you will visit us and consider ours.

We have many country/western cake toppers and favors to choose from. If you want something a little different...just ask. We will be happy to work with you.

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-01-13T00:59:00.003-06:00

To continue on with my explorations of the state of Arizona. While viewing the Grand Canyon, I started to look around at the trees and plants growing in this area. We took a walk down a path along the rim of the canyon. No, I did not ride a mule down the canyon & we did not hike it! We arrived at that point too late in the day the first day and the second day was so cold! We visited the last weekend in September. Hubs would have loved to, but the it was such a windy day that we decided to forgo that adventure.

Back to the walk, a leisurely one I might add taken with chattering teeth & wind blowing ninety-to-nothing. I'm accustomed to tall, towering majestic trees and that is not what I was seeing. I'm not sure what this plant is called but it was taller than most of the trees. I was completely amazed by it.

Each state has much to offer & I love exploring or discovering what is unique to the area. Some things may not be unique but they are things that I've not seen in my home state.

Please visit Susan at A Southern Daydreamer to view more Outdoor Wednesday posts.

Blue Monday - Picnic Guest

2010-01-11T01:07:00.004-06:00

This little guy joined my husband & me as we picnicked within site of the Painted Desert. He started off quite a ways out, patiently waiting for any crumbs thrown his way. He would swoop down, capture the tidbit & fly off hiding his treats up in the nearby trees. After a bit, he became very brave...getting closer and closer to us. He became so brave that he would land on the opposite end of the picnic table. Such a busy little fellow...flying to and fro storing up food for later. We provided him with many meals!

Please visit Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday posts.

Scenic Sunday - Holy Dove Chapel

2010-01-10T21:39:00.010-06:00

I want to share a little chapel that we stumbled across when we were in Arizona. This is the back view - the little door has a cross window. It is on US Hwy 180 that cuts across from Hwy 64 (the road to the Grand Canyon) to Flagstaff. If you are looking for a remote, quaint spot for a small country wedding - this may just be the perfect location. It is beautiful in this area. Be sure to visit other scenic sunday posts.

This is one of the views from the church yard....split rail fence, meadows, mountains...beautiful!

Time to Regroup

2010-01-10T21:33:00.002-06:00

I'm been MIA for quite a while. I hope to blog more this year and visit more of my friend's blogs. As many of you may know my family lost a dear loved one in Nov. of 2009 after a battle with cancer. 2009 was a most difficult year, but there were some high points. My dear precious sweet granddaughter was born Dec. 3rd. What a wonderful gift from God! Miss Kyndall Layne has been a joy and a blessing for all of us.

Well, it's a new year, new goals, new beginnings....so I'm going to get myself in gear and see what is going on in the blogging world.

Outdoor Wednesday - The Changing Sky

2009-08-18T15:56:00.012-05:00

My Outdoor Wednesday is featurning a day in the everchanging Arkansas sky.

Be sure to visit Outdoor Wednesday hosted by Susan at A Southern Daydreamer. There are many links to fantastic pictures this week, be sure to visit and comment.

Senseless Actions Forever Change Lives

2009-08-18T15:22:00.005-05:00

Seems only yesterday that I posted on the blog. But no...I look back and it has been much too long. Life keeps turning, twisting...spiraling at times out of control,
I keep on rolling with it, trying to keep keep up. Things happen...you don't know why...I sit and wonder,if one had made a different choice we wouldn't be faced with this. Sickness, diseases, accidents...seems like my family has had its share lately.

I know that everyone faces these obstacles in life and we will make it through. Some things seem so senseless. Why did someone make the choice to drive while angry & drunk? Don't they realize the lives they forever change. The young teen girls whose mother is taken away while they are much too young. The spouse that is in a daze and cannot grasp the surreal fact that she will never be back. The father that cannot believe he has outlived his daughter...the grandchildren who will never remember their grandmother. People should stop and think before they drink and drive...angry or not. What you do doesn't just affect you...your actions will affect the lives of so many people forever.

Don't be a selfish person, think before you act. Oh, you may say "it was an accident" - maybe so - but it is not an accident if you make the choice to drink and drive. No, you didn't purposely have an accident, but you did purposely take that drink and get behind the wheel. There's nothing wrong with drinking responsibly...but that's the key. Be responsible...stay out of the driver's seat! You're not 10 feet tall and bullet proof...and neither are the people meeting you on the road.

Stubb's BBQ Giveaway ~ Ending Tonight

2009-06-05T08:17:00.004-05:00

I'm from the South and BBQ is what we do! Fire up the grill and get ready! The Cookie Girl is having a fantastic giveaway. But, you need to hurry! The offer ends tonight at midnight....don't miss your chance to win a whole case of Stubb's sauces! This is a BBQ lovers dream! Ms. Cookie Girl gives you several ways to gain more entries....now run over over to her fabulous blogs and ENTER! When you visit her Cookie Girl Creations blog, be sure to take advantage of the cookie recipes she offers....after all...she is the Cookie Girl (Queen). I love the name of her new blog...Frying Bacon Naked She is posting recipes on this blog, too.

To enter the Stubb's BBQ Giveaway visit Frying Bacon Naked.

I've followed all the rules....sure hope I win!

Good luck to everyone and thank you Cookie Girl for such a fanastic opportunity!

ABC's of the Word....Q

2009-06-03T23:47:00.004-05:00

Grey Like Snuffie is hosting ABC's of the Word, please visit her site to view other scriptures.

"For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." Romans 1:8

Outdoor Wednesday ~ Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks

2009-06-02T20:56:00.010-05:00

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Outdoor Wednesday is hosted by Susan at A Southern Dreamer, please head on over to view other OW posts.

Nannie lets me dig in the dirt at the edge of the woods, as long as she is outside with me. I'm beginning to tire of digging by myself. Oh boy, here comes Lily...hmmm..wonder if.....

She looks like she wants to play, don't you think?

Now, Lily you must get your head down there a little closer so you can see what you're doing.

Maybe this is what he is wanting me to do...smell the ground?!

This is what he wants....hmmmm...this is lots of fun. I think this is kind of like burying a bone!

Bone! There may be a bone in this hole....that or a mole! Either way....I'm getting it!

Okay, Skeet let's get out of here! Lily's busy digging so we can escape! We're off to the great outdoors....I know how much you love to ride!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Water

2009-06-02T20:34:00.005-05:00

Visit Dixie at French Lique for more Wordless Wednesday posts.

Summer Memories

2009-06-01T22:58:00.008-05:00

Three little girls on a warm summer day,
Asked Grannie what should we do…what game can we play,
Being a wise woman accustomed to young lasses,
She spread out a blanket on the soft, green grasses.
Plopping on their little bellies the giggles ensue,
They roll to their backs gazing at the sky wondering what to do.

Hey, that cloud looks like a bear,
No…it’s a buffalo, I declare.
The hours passed as we watched and pondered,
The shifting, wafting shapes changing as we wondered,
Soft, fluffy, billowy, wispy…floating so high above,
Did they get up there on the wings of a dove?

They had heard of “on the wings of a snow white dove”.
That must be how they got so very high above.
This mystery was more than they could figure out,
Grannie called them to lunch with a shout,
You girls can play again after while,
Skipping, running, jumping to Grannie with a smile.

Enter the "Escape to Hawaii" Sweepstakes

2009-06-01T16:08:00.006-05:00

In Style Wedding Boutique is giving away a Blissful Honeymoon Package to one lucky winner! If you've always dreamt of honeymooning in Hawaii but didn't know where the money was coming from....well, here's your chance.

The lucky winner will receive:

* A trip for two to Embassy Suites Waikki Beach Walk - Oahu's only all-suite resort.
* Two roundtrip tickets via Hawaiian Airlines from a U.S. gateway city
(transportation to the gateway city is not included)
* Five nights of luxe accommodations
* 45-minute in-suite lomi lomi massage for two
* $500 shopping spree at the luxurious Waikki Beach Walk

For more information and to register for this fantastic Honeymoon Package, you may visit In Style Wedding's Bridal Boutique. No purchase is necessary to enter the sweepstakes. The sweepstakes begins at 12:01 am Eastern Time on June 5, 2009 and ends at 11:50 pm on September 3, 2009. To see the complete entry rules, please visit www.instyleweddings.com/bridalboutique.

Here's a link to a live web cam on Waikiki Beach Walk.

This site Go Hawaii will give you some background information on the area. This is Hawaii's official tourism site.

This contest is sponsored by: Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk. You may visit Embassy Suites Waikiki for more information on amenities, local attractions and things to do.

Good luck and may one of my blog reading brides win the wonderful honeymoon package!

Blue Monday - Daydreaming

2009-05-31T23:11:00.010-05:00

This is my very first Blue Monday post. Blue Monday is hosted by Sally. Visit her website to view others who have Blue Monday posts.

After such a rainy May, this day turned out beautiful. I couldn't help looking at the clouds and the way the sunshine makes the sky look so blue. I had my head in the clouds all day.

After looking at the sky, I began to remember the days gone by. The many days as a child, when my cousins and I would spread a blanket on the grass. We spent hours looking at the sky, the clouds and sharing our secrets. Those were the days. We had no problems....the days seemed endless...time stood still.

These memories are even more precious as one of the cousin trio was killed by a drunken driver on Labor Day Weekend 2007. I will always reflect on those days and the precious time the three of us shared. A day of warmth, sunshine, blue sky with scattered clouds brings back those times of wonder, love, trust and friendship.

I imagine her looking down upon us saying, "What do you see?" That was our favorite cloud game. Oh, cheap fun...before the days of video games, cell phones and computers.

This post didn't start out to tell of all of this, but this is what was on my mind and what the pictures bring to mind. Days gone by. Hope you enjoy my cloud pictures. I know you may think I am sad, but I'm not. She was a wonderful person, full of life and love. She was a very forgiving person and would have forgiven the person that cost her the very life she loved. So, in talking of her and the memories I have of those times - I'm not being sad - I'm celebrating her life and our memories. She is in God's Hands now and looking down through these beautiful clouds. I can hear her laughter and feel her love.

Thanks for coming by and reading my post. Happy Blue Monday!

Great Giveaway at Monkey Bizness

2009-05-31T22:40:00.003-05:00

If you like to read, be sure to go by Monkey Bizness. Linda is giving away one paperback book, one hardcover book and 1 handmade cloth book cover. Hurry over and check out the details, she tells which books and gives a description of each...the giveway will be over on June 5th.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-27T00:31:00.010-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-05-26T23:21:00.006-05:00

Outdoor Wednesday

Food & Drink Ideas for a Beach-Themed Wedding

2009-05-18T11:53:00.004-05:00

You're planning a beach-themed wedding, most things are under control. Your thoughts turn to food....what are you going to feed your guests? Are you planning a sit-down meal, food stations, appetizers...should you go more formal or informal. All good questions before you plan the menu. Perhaps, you are going to have the event catered...that's great, you can choose from their menus. If you aren't having your event catered but relying on others to prepare the food for you may want to plan what foods are offered.

I've put together a list of possibilities...no, they aren't my personal recipes. I have tried some of these and found them to be very good. I am providing the links to the recipes and it is up to you to decide which ones tempt your tastebuds.

Salmon With Pineapple Salsa

Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Grilled Talapia With Mango Salsa

Grilled Chicken With Fresh Mango Salsa

Dave's Low Country Boil (We love Low Country Boils)

Sole - Mustard and Caper Sauce

Pork Tenderloin - Citrus Rub

Catahoula's Savory Crabmeat

Barbecued Skewers of Fish

Jambalaya

Cajun Gumbo

Clam Chowder

Clam Chowder

Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Shrimp

Shrimp Mangoes and Papayas on Skewers with Mango Salsa

Seafood Salad Supreme

Crab Avocado Salad With Fruit Salsa

Seafood Salad

Layered Seafood Salad Appetizer

California Seafood Dip

Five Layer Seafood Dip

Cheesy Jalapeno Crab Dip

Arlene's Shrimp Dip

Crab Spinach Dip

Festive Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes

Remoulade Sauce ala New Orleans

Bite-Sized Crab Quiches

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp with Quick Bearnaise Sauce

Bacon Wrapped Scallop and Salmon Skewers

Crab and Cheese Spread

Salmon Spread

Creamy Tuna Spread

Creamy Crab Canapes

Hawaiian Ham Spread

Crab and Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms

Flounder Rollups

Salmon and Cucumber Rolls

Shrimp Won Ton

Fresh Salsa

Crab Appetizer Napoleons

New England Clambake

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Crawfish Crab and Shrimp Ceviche

Watermelon Fruit Bowl

Watermelon Salsa

Mango Jicama Salsa

Spicy Orange Salsa

Pineapple Tomato Salsa

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Fruit Dip

Passion Fruit Sangria

Margarita Jello Shots

Non-Alcoholic - Although I'm sure you could add your favorite alcoholic beverage to many of these.

Banana Pineapple Colada

Hawaiian Jungle Juice

Mango Tango Cooler

Fruit Slush

Pineapple Slush

Strawberry Lemon Spritzer

Summer Sangria

Hope some of these recipes will help you with your menu selections. There are many other recipes available on these sites and others. You may search for ideas using google and searching for seafood appetizers, seafood recipes, beach themed foods, ocean themed foods, etc.

GIVEAWAY at Thankfully Simple - 50 Handwritten Thank You Notes

2009-05-17T11:26:00.002-05:00

***GREAT GIVEAWAY***

Many people are busy these days and can't find the extra time to sit and write out thank you notes. You mean to, you want to and next thing you know...time has past and you are too embarrassed to send them out. Don't let that happen again, there is one company that is willing to help you. Thankfully Simple will do the work for you.

The giveaway is for 50 handwritten thank you notes with handwritten envelopes. This is a $125 value. You may provide your own blank thank you notes or arrange for Thankfully Simple to purchase for you. If you need to send out more than 50 cards, they will apply the giveaway prize ($125) credit to your account.

This is a fantastic giveaway for the person who doesn't have the time it takes to write out handwritten notes. You will be able to thank the person for the thoughtfulness of their gift and acknowledge that you received the gift. No more being embarrassed because you didn't send out your thank you notes.

You may read more about the giveaway at the Thankfully Simple Blog. It is transferable and has no expiration date. You may save it for later, give it away as a gift to a bride or anyone needing thank you notes written.

Hurry on over to www.thankfullysimple.blogspot.com and leave a comment to be entered. The drawing is June 1, 2009.

Beach-themed Wedding Ideas

2009-05-16T16:10:00.004-05:00

Many of you will actually have your wedding on the beach, while some of you may opt to have a beach-themed wedding at a land-locked location inside or outside. These ideas may work with either scenario. You will want to pick and choose as you will not need to try to incorporate all of the ideas into one wedding.

There are many different ways you can go with a beach-theme. You may decide to use mostly a sea shell theme, sailboats, pirate, treasure hunt, items seen on a beach or creatures from the ocean. We hope you will find a new idea from us or perhaps we will provide the spark for a unique idea of your own.

Happy planning!

Use a surfboard as a table for favors, the card box or guestbook.

Construct a card box shaped as a shell, sandcastle, lighthouse, beach hut, lobster trap or other beach related object.

Use shades of ocean green, sky blue, ocean blue, sand beige, tropical pink, orange or lime green.

Have guests wear Hawaiian shirts.

Leis for the guests – may be flower leis, leis made from shells or made from your choice of flowers & shells.

Limbo contest. Beach volley ball.

Decorate cake with shells, starfish, seahorses, palm trees out of fondant or icing. May use real shells. Scatter real shells around on the table. Could use real sand or brown sugar to look like sand then add shells.

Grass skirts to line base of tables.

Four rattan poles draped with white gauze as a canopy.

Garlands of sea shells between chairs, on tables, lining the aisle, etc.

Use sea shells in the aisle instead of rose petals.

Bouquets of flowers mixed with shells and other sea treasures.

Flowers, greens, raffia or bear grass looped with clusters of shells that are attached (with glue) to hang on chairs by the aisle.

Tiki torches to line the aisles or scattered about.

Line the aisle with pails of sand, buckets of shells, paper luminaries or palm branches.

Make or rent a beach gazebo. Build a wooden aisle to resemble a pier or boardwalk.

Woven baskets full of favors, bottle waters, etc.

Use a small paddleboat to hold iced beverages.

Leather journal (to resemble log book) for the guest book.

Nets on the wall or on tables – adorn with shells, starfish, anchors, rope, life rings, oars, buoys. This might be a good idea for a groom’s table – scatter shells, etc around with a little sand or brown sugar underneath, use a cake shaped like a lighthouse, shells, anchor, or any other beach related item that he prefers.

Use buoys in corners or as aisle markers.

Use a conch shell as a cake topper with smaller shells, starfish and pearls to adorn the cake.

Sandcastle-shaped cake – use brown sugar for sand around the cake with candy sea shells, star fish, sand dollars, and/or seahorses.

Dolphin Ice Sculpture.

Sand Pails full of flowers. You could use these as centerpieces or line the aisle with them.

Spread sand/shells for bride and groom to stand on.

Use a large shell lined with tissue paper or material for carrying the rings instead of a ring pillow.

Adirondack chairs, Picnic Tables, Beach Blankets or Picnic baskets may be incorporated in your theme.

Outdoor reception – spread sand down center of tables – add tea lights or lanterns, shells, etc.

Sailboat tea light candles.

Beach hut bubbles, beach hut centerpieces.

Use bamboo mats, banana leaf or palm frond under centerpieces.

Make beach themed shaped place cards from plaster of Paris – paint & write guests names on with a sharpie marker.

Driftwood or sea shells as place card holders.

Starfish or shell shaped place cards.

Cut small surf board from balsa wood – paint and add names to use as place cards. Could use a small wooden easel to hold them up.

Use white candles, white sand, scatter sea shells, sand dollars, star fish, etc around it or prop the starfish up against the candle as a centerpiece.

Fill bowl with sand, add various shells, pebbles, starfish, etc. and a candle (in a votive cup) or tealight in the center.

Cylinder vases (various heights) – shells in bottom, fill with water, add a floating candle – set on a bamboo mat, palm frond or banana leaf. Add sand under vases. Make sure floating candles are almost as large as the vases or they will float to one side.

Candles with raffia tied around them & shells attached to the front.

Moss covered wreaths decorated with shells of various shapes, sizes and colors, sea glass, starfish, rope or any other item you prefer – set candles or lanterns in the center. Scatter a few shells around the outside edge of wreaths.

Clear glass container with sand/shells or pebbles in the bottom – add beach grass.

Use blue glass bottles from a flea market to hold your flowers, beach grass, etc.

Glass vases – add a layer of pearls in the bottom- insert candle (in votive cup) in the center.
Crystal or clear bowl – votive candle in center surrounded by glass pebbles, shells & pearls.

Use starfish or shell shaped bowls, plates or platters.

Boats or buckets of mints.

Beach-themed shaped and decorated cookies – may be enclosed in cello tied with raffia and adorned with a shell as a favor.

Decorative beach themed soap favors.

Seashell hor d’oeuvre picks.

Bamboo napkins rings.

Palm leaf fans for guests.

Hurricane vases filled with sand and shells around a candle in the center.

Candles with embedded shells.

Tabletop tiki torch centerpieces.

Place sand and shells in a bowl, fill with water add floating candles.

Use shaped floating candles: star fish, fish, palm trees, shells, etc.

Tall vases with palm fronds.

Vases filled with various sizes, shapes and colors of shells.

Use Pineapples as centerpieces on food tables or you may stack three for a pineapple tree. You will have to slice the top off of two of the pineapples and attach them together with wooden skewers.

Sand dollars with a ribbon or jute attached; add wedding date and/or couple’s names – Christmas ornament favor

Serve drinks with umbrellas.

Rent or construct a beach hut bar to serve your favorite beach beverages.

Recommendations for beach beverages:

Pina Colada, Blue Hawaiian Cocktail, Green Dragon, Sex on the Beach Cocktail, Tropical Itch Cocktail, Sangria, Melon Martinis, Watermelon Margaritas, Mimosa, Coco Loco, Midnight by the Beach, Mojito, Southern Comfort Punch, Beach Bum Cocktail, Rum Runner, or lemon, lime or orange jello shooters.

Non-Alcoholic: Herb-infused teas and lemonade.

Margarita Bar:

Mango, Papaya, Tangerine, Lemon, Key Lime, Passionfruit or Watermelon.

A few food Ideas:

Set up food stations – finger foods, fork foods, dessert station, salad station, fruit station,etc.

Candy Buffett – dolphins of molded chocolate, sea shell, sand dollar, star fish or palm tree shaped candies. Maybe made from various chocolates.

Cupcakes decorated in a beach theme or tropical flavored cupcakes.

Clam bake, luau or barbeque.

Shrimp in shot glasses at each place setting.

Fresh fruit, fruit juices, vegetable or meat kabobs, coconut cake or cupcakes, sweet & sour chicken or pork, salads.

Grilled chicken.

Shrimp, potato, corn on cob boil with baked beans and salad.

Tropical fruits & cheese appetizers.

Crab cakes with spicy remoulade.

Grilled shrimp and scallop kabobs.

Use large conch shells for holding grapes, condiments, or mints.

Build a bonfire if it is an evening wedding.

Play beach music – such as Beach Boys, etc.

How Many Times Does It Take?!

2009-05-05T21:55:00.001-05:00

The phone rings and it is the same automated voice, “This is your last chance to lower your credit card interest”. Now I have interrupted my day on 10 occasions this week to answer the phone and receive this same message. They call both phone lines…taking turns…GIVE UP!!!!
Finally, I’ve had enough. I’ve tried not answering, answering and hanging up….so I give it a shot…I hang on for a FOR REAL LIVE PERSON! Imagine my shock, when I am directed to one immediately. Person says, “Have you just received a call about your credit card”? DUH!! I almost laugh…too funny…why else would I be on the line! I reply sweetly, “Yes, I did and I would appreciate it if you would take me off your calling list”. The person hangs up on me. Go figure! LOL

Fast forward to the today, well not too fast as I received multiple calls each day. Phone rings…I check caller ID…there it is once again…trying not to laugh I hang on once again, determined to get rid of these aggravating, irritating pests who never give up. Well, I answer and the automated person goes through the same little speech…I hang on for a chance at another FOR REAL LIVE PERSON….I get it. LOL The person says, “Did you receive a call about your last chance to lower your credit card interest”? Very sweetly and sarcastically I say, “Yes, I did and I surely hope it is the very last chance! Please remove me from your list….I don’t need my rate lowered as I don’t owe anything!” This one hung up on me, too. You would think I was calling and bugging them! Am I removed....I doubt that I'm that lucky!

Well, four hours have passed and there are no calls….there is always tomorrow. I think I’ll just go back to letting the answering machine get them when they call again. I’m sure they will….you can’t get these people to stop…they don’t understand the concept of NO.

36 Places Offering Free Wedding Websites

2009-05-05T16:10:00.002-05:00

You’re getting married! How exciting! There is so much to do and you are beginnng to think you could use some help. Well, help is within a mouse-click! There are many free wedding websites around and I will list a few that I’ve come across. I am not recommending any of them and advise you to read the fine print. I do know people that have used the sites with great success. These are places that host (for free) your very own wedding website.

You may be asking, “What is a free wedding website and why do I need one”? Well, let me tell you some reasons you may want a wedding website. Organization is the first and foremost benefit of having a website. Having all of your details in one location – where you can find them, is a definite plus. You may be hiring a wedding planner…that’s a great idea, but you may still want to keep up with what is going on and share your wedding plans with close friends and relatives.

Here’s a list of features that maybe offered on a wedding website:

*You receive your very own wedding website and a wedding blog.
*Wedding guest list planner.
*Guests may RSVP online.
*Wedding budget planner tool.
*Share your favorite stories – how we met, engagement, etc. with family & friends.
*Keep guests informed about wedding events.
*Family & friends may leave comments or messages on your wedding website or blog.
*Display details about your wedding ceremony & reception.
*Display photos of you & your fiancé, family members and/or bridal party.
*May have multiple photo albums.
*Wedding blog on the updates of your wedding preparations and coming events.
*Create polls or quizzes to find out how well your family & friends know you.
*Create polls for honeymoon suggestions.
*Display details about your honeymoon.
*Display accommodation details for out of town guests – including directions.
*Display local attractions for out of town guests.
*Display gift registries.
*Many third party widgets can be added – such as slide shows.
*Calendar of Events.
*Record Gifts Received.
*Keep track of vendors.
*Wedding budget.
*Create a timeline.
* Facebook Integration.
*FAQ page for guests.

These are but a few of the features available. Not all free wedding websites offer the same features. You will need to research and see which one is the best fit for you. Some of them offer additional features if you upgrade to a paying plan, but there are many good ones that are free. There is a wealth of free information on many of the sites listed below. Hope you find something that will make your planning days a little less stressful.

www.sharedweddings.com
www.ewedding.com
www.mywedding.com
www.momentville.com
www.dreamplanner.net
www.bridalfever.com
www.weddingchannel.com
www.onewed.com
www.weddingannouncer.com
www.theknot.com
www.myweddingfile.com
www.superweds.com
www.projectwedding.com
www.weddepot.com
www.islandbrides.com
www.fineweddingwebsite.com
www.ourbridespace.com
www.theweddingvendor.com
www.yourweddingplace.com
www.weddingmuseum.com
www.awebwedding.com
www.weddingdepotcanada.com
www.wedplan.net
www.onlineweddingpages.com
www.ourweddingscene.com
www.weddingwall.com
www.timetowed.com
www.idealwedding.co.uk
www.weddingsondisplay.com
www.theweddingglass.com
www.mrwed.com
www.weddingpath.co.uk
www.starweddingplanner.com
www.myecochicwedding.com
www.bridespub.com
www.justproposed.com

May one of these sites help your wedding planning go smoother. That is our intention. There are many free resources out there and we plan to find more of them. Check back often. We will be looking for free giveaways, contests and places that offer free information to make your life easier. If you would like to contribute to this list – please feel free to do so.

11 Places to Consider for Honeymooning

2009-05-02T16:07:00.001-05:00

Today while reading around on the 'net, I came across MSN Travel's recommended places to get more for your dollar. The eleven places they recommend are beautiful. MSN has created a slideshow of the places along with a list of attractions for each. The rating for currency comparison between the United States and the recommended country is listed. If you are looking for an affordable honeymoon spot, maybe one of these will be just the one! Everyone is looking to get the most for their dollars, so check it out.

Here's a list of the eleven countries:

1. The Seychelles
2. Iceland
3. Ukraine
4. Zambia
5. Russia
6. Hungary
7. Colombia
8. Romania
9. Chile
10. Jamaica
11. Turkey

Hope you find just the right spot for you and your honey!

Love Is...

2009-04-26T21:49:00.001-05:00

Love is patient…Love is kind,
Love is not all in the mind.
Love is being together hand in hand,
Love is not burying your head in the sand.
Love is finding that one of a kind.
Love is not perfect…love is not blind,
Love is the fluttering of your heart,
Love is not picking one another apart.
Love is that special warm glow,
Love is not full of woe.
Love is heartfelt emotion to the core,
Love is forevermore.

Debbie L Wahl

Wedding Dress Contest

2009-04-17T20:58:00.003-05:00

Cheap Chic Weddings is running a Wedding Dress Contest. This contest has an unique twist - the dress must be created from toliet paper, tape, and glue. Ripley's Believe It or Not is the sponsor of the Toliet Paper Dress Contest. Cheap Chic Weddings awards 3 prizes: 1st place receives $1000.00, 2nd place receives $500.00, and 3rd place receives $250.00.

All of you creative brides, take a shot at this one for some extra money to spend on your wedding. Go to Cheap Chic Weddings for the contest details and rules.

C.K.Q. Gifts Tiara Contest~~How We Got Engaged!

2009-04-17T00:15:00.004-05:00

Every bride wants to feel like a princess, this beautiful tiara will help you achieve your dreams. Dana of C.K.Q. Gifts invites all newly engaged couples to enter their Tiara Contest. C.K.Q. Gifts believes that every newly engaged couple has a “great story” to tell and some are more creative than others. If you are getting ready to take the step to holy matrimony and would like to win this beautiful tiara, take the time to share your story with C.K.Q. Gifts.

They are looking for someone with a unique, creative story. Be sure to share details of your engagement that may have been different from others; tell where it took place; who was there; how it happened; and anything else you can think of that will make your engagement stand out from the rest. Please email your story to dana@ckqgifts.biz along with a photo of you and your fiancé. The winning story will be posted on the CKQ Gifts squidoo page.

If you have any questions about the Tiara Contest please email Dana at dana@ckqgifts.biz. May one of you lucky brides win this beautiful, sparkling tiara to help make your wedding day dreams come true.

Good luck to everyone!

Friendship on the Net

2009-04-11T15:07:00.001-05:00

The sun is streaming through the blinds onto the bed,
As I rouse awake trying to get thoughts into my head.

Yawning, stretching, getting the body in a nimble state,
Contemplating what this great day holds….what is the date?

Mind is foggy, needing to clear…much to do here,
Out of the bed I climb, facing the day without fear.

The coffee is brewing for the much need jolt,
Off like a flash, to the computer I bolt,

Log on to check to see what the twitter is about,
What fun to see if you will get the fail whale to come out.

On to the blog to make a new post,
About someone you admire the most.

The forums – oh what fun!
The friends you have made and the things you have done.

Peoples lives that have crossed… changes that have been made,
Shared thoughts, kindness, prayers..all who have rushed to my aid.

Where or where would we be…if not for the internet,
And our social networking friends….lonely I bet.

Debbie L Wahl

Westernize Your Cupcakes

2009-04-10T16:51:00.003-05:00

Smaller wedding cakes on each table, mini cakes at each place setting or cupcakes on a tiered server are popular as well as dessert bars. If you are planning a western wedding, have you wondered how to incorporate cupcakes into the theme? I'm sure you don't want to use plain ole cupcakes in your western-themed wedding. I would like to share a few ideas with you.

Keep in mind that I don’t make cakes professionally, but have dabbled in the past. You will need to take the matter up with your baker/decorator to see if the idea is feasible.

*Decorate regular cupcakes with rope-look icing edging. You could include the initial on top to look like a brand.

*Make an icing cowboy hat, saddle or cowboy boot on the top of each cupcake.

*Instead of a tiered holder, use a white enamel plate or platter to hold the cupcakes.

*Make rectangular cupcakes (using mini loaf pans) – decorate to resemble hay bales.

*The cupcake hay bales can be decorated farther by adding icing horseshoes, cowboy hat, etc.

*For a sunflower theme, decorate the top of each cupcake with an icing sunflower. Or you could use silk sunflowers atop each cupcake.

*Use mini sunflower pans to bake the cupcakes.

*Decorate the top of each cupcake with an icing horseshoe or 2 icing horseshoes slightly overlapping.

*For a John Deere country theme cupcake – Ice cupcakes yellow; add the John Deere logo either in icing or by using the plastic picks.

Frost a regular cupcake with your favorite icing – add a chocolate-shaped cowboy hat; cowboy boot; horseshoe, etc. to the top of each cupcake.

I’m sure there are many more ideas for western themed cakes and cupcakes. If you have an idea you would like to share - please feel free to post.

Free Photography for One Lucky Bride!

2009-03-02T00:03:00.004-06:00

Sherrlyn Borkgren Photography is giving away free wedding photography this year shot by her personally. If you haven't seen her pictures, please go right to her site www.lovesimplyhappens.com to view them. She is fabulous - so talented! She wants to bless someone and give back. Please visit her blog www.lovesimplyhappens.blogspot.com. She has a post on the blog about the giveaway along with the instructions for entering the contest.

The rules are simple - something anyone can do. The deadline is March 31 to enter.

What are you waiting for - you could win wedding photography from Sherrlyn Borkgren Photography and a honeymoon trip from the Travel Channel! Good luck!

Win a Trip of A Lifetime

2009-02-20T00:33:00.003-06:00

During these tough economic times, we are all wanting to get away. What better way then to win a FREE trip - a trip of a lifetime. The Travel Channel is having a Trip-A-Month Sweepstakes. This month the prize is a trip for 2 to Peru. Just imagine flying (round-trip expenses paid) to beautiful, magical Peru for seven days and six nights.

You will visit Lima, Cuzco, the banks of the Amazon and take a train tour to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu has been voted on of the new 7 wonders of the world.

For more information on this sweepstakes - how to enter, the rules, etc. Please visit The Travel Channel.

You could win a free trip for your honeymoon to a fabulous, exotic place. Each month will feature a different location.

Rentals May Help Cut Costs

2009-02-18T09:25:00.003-06:00

You’re planning the wedding of your dreams and the budget just went over the top. Some areas are going to have to be cut, but you can’t bear to do without any of your selections! What to do? Carefully review your plans – just to see if maybe, just maybe you can live without something. If the answer is no way! Then you could consider renting some of the items that are necessary to make your dream day come true.

There are many rental companies around. I would recommend comparing prices as some of them offer better bargains than others. Some offer delivery and pick up services for a fee. You may be able to negotiate the fees if you rent many items. You could ask if you will be allowed to pick the items up yourself and return them. This may be an option, if you have a large number of people to help you. You will need to appoint a reliable person to be in charge of this. You should not try to do this yourself, as you and the groom will not have time to deal with this.

Now to some of the items offered by rental companies:

Tents – There are a large variety of tents available in many sizes and styles. Tents for small gatherings to tents for a hundred or more, tents with sides and climate control, open-sided tents – there is a tent available for every need. If you are planning an outdoor event, a tent may be valuable to you as you will not have to worry about the weather ruining your perfect day. A tent is like a giant blank backdrop just waiting to be brought to life with your decorations, ideas and style. Imagine theatrical lighting, stages, dance floors, tables, chairs, linens and china – your personal touch will create a masterpiece. Tents can be transformed into the most elegant of affairs to a western hoedown with hay, denim table clothes and chairs with bandana sashes. Choose a rental place that visits the venue to help you determine which is best for you. If you have the funds in your budget, many of them offer the service of setting up the tent and decorating it for you.

Tables, chairs, linens and china are all available at most of the rental places. Unless you have access to a large number of these items, I would highly recommend renting them. It is much more cost effective to rent than to purchase them and never use them again.

Dance floors and stages are available in a variety of sizes and designs. If you are hiring a disc jockey you may want to check with that company as they also offer dance floors. I would definitely do a price comparison. With some DJ services, they pass a savings to you for purchasing more services. They may be willing to add a dance floor, a frozen drink machine or a karaoke machine – or perhaps offer you a good discount if you purchase these services from them. The best part of getting these items from the DJ service is – they bring the items with them, set them up, take them down and you don’t have to mess with it. But, I would check with the particular service to make sure they offer this as DJ services have different conditions.

Beverage Services – There are a wide array of beverage items available in different sizes and styles. Urns, coffeemakers, cream pitchers, sugar bowls, punch bowls, ladles, water pitchers, wine carafes, tea service sets, 5 gallon hot/cold dispensers and tabletop or floor standing wine coolers may all be found at rental stores. If you need a cocktail bar or cart for your special event, check the rental companies as there are different styles and sizes available. These bars and carts do not include the liquor, setups or bartender.

Reception - Some other items that you may want to consider renting rather than purchasing: champagne fountains, chocolate fountains, ice carving & display bars, cake plateaus, cocktail bars & carts, outdoor lighting, air conditioners or heaters for tents, china, flatware, glassware, serving utensils, serving trays and bowls. Frozen drink machines, dance floors, stages, karaoke machines are available at rental companies and at most DJ services.

Decorations - Arches, chuppahs, candelabras, columns, and votive candles are available as rentals. You may want to comparison shop at your florist for some of these items. Many times people do not think about a florist having rental items, but many of them do and this may be your best bet for some of the items you need.

Cooking - If you need large grills that will hold 40 steaks or 30 chicken halves, look to the rental companies. Many sizes and styles are available from rotisseries, propane grills - to smokers on trailers. You may have to do a bit of calling to find what you need but better than ending up purchasing something you don’t need all the time. Ask about chafing dishes, propane burners/fish cookers and pots, griddles, heat lamps, hot plates and electric roasters.

I know that I haven’t covered all items that are available from rental companies. Check with your local rental companies, florists, and dj's - seek reputable companies - compare prices. There are many ways to shave a bit off of your budget. If you are planning a DIY wedding or looking for a way to cut some expense from your budget this may be an option for you.

Free Wedding Photography Contest

2009-02-02T11:26:00.002-06:00

We are always looking for contests to pass along to our couples. This one is being offered by Misha Nikole Photography of Grand Praire, TX.

Misha Nikole Photography is looking for deserving couples to award their prize of free photography for your wedding. They are looking for couples with a great love story and incredible style.

To enter this contest follow this link: Misha Nikole Photography or go to www.mishanikole.com, click on "The Wedding" and enter your information in the check availbility spaces.

The wedding ceremony must be before April 25, 2009.

You must submit to Misha Nikole:

picture of bride & groom
reason why you should be selected
your wedding details

Misha Nickole Photography
Grand Prairie, TX
info@mishanikole.com
817-966-2690

We are not affiliated with Misha Nikole nor or we endorsing them. We are simply passing along an availble contest to you. It is up to you to decide if it is legit and if you want to enter. Be sure to carefully check their website for the official rules and regulations.

We will be looking for more contests, discounts and savings for you in the future.

Dreaming of the Day

2009-02-01T02:13:00.000-06:00

Dreams and visions dancing in my head,
As I lay reclined in my bed.
My honey popped the magical question
Without my prodding suggestion.

He dropped on bended knee,
Right before me.
Looking deep into my eyes
He asked will you be my bride.

The answer, of course, was Yes, oh Yes!
There was no room for guessing.
I wanted him to be sure that I was his,
I worked myself up into quite a tiz.
This was the moment I had dreamt many a night,
Wondering when the time would be right.

It seems so surreal…. time is standing still,
I’m out of breath as if I’ve been running up hill.
My heart skipping a beat…
This man of mine is one to keep.
He’s thoughtful, kind and romantic, too
No other man will do.

I would tie the knot…right on the spot,
But we cannot.
We must plan…invite the family and friends,
To see our two lives blend.

This cowboy and I will pick a theme,
To showcase our wedding dream.
It’s western…of course,
We will arrive riding our horse.
Ropes, hay bales, sunflowers and tubs,
Barbequed meat with just the right rub.

What a celebration this day will bring,
When we exchange our vows and rings.
Our true love we will declare,
And throw our hats into the air.

In my dream I can see it all very clearly,
As we share our lives with those we hold dearly.
The most perfect start to our new life,
I promise to be the very best wife.
As I drift off to sleep all snuggled in my bed,
Visions of our new life floating though my head.

DIY Wedding - It is Possible

2009-01-28T15:00:00.006-06:00

In these tough economic times, many brides are opting for a DIY (do-it-yourself) wedding. This is certainly a money-saving option for many brides. A wedding planner is wonderful, if you have the available funds. Many people do not or opt to spend the funds on a different area of the weeding or on a honeymoon. If you decide to go with a DIY wedding, you need to get organized. Organization is the key to having a wedding flow smoothly. To get organized, buy yourself a wedding planner book or make one yourself. If you need guidelines, research on the internet or check out a book from your local library. Use all of the free resources available in order to trim your budget.

Decisions, decisions….now is the time to decide exactly what you want your wedding to be and make choices. Decide what type of wedding you prefer: traditional, contemporary, destination, or themed. Do you have your heart set on getting married at a certain venue? Is it within your budget or do you need to find another place that will work. You may want to consider getting married on a day other than Saturday as many venues have lower prices for other days of the week. Or you may change the time of your wedding from evening to afternoon or perhaps late morning. If you are considering a destination wedding, you may want to check on the prices and consider having your wedding in the off-season. For example, a summer beach wedding will cost more than a fall or winter beach wedding. If you are planning a destination wedding, you will need to work with someone from the area to help you make arrangements for your wedding. You probably cannot take care of all of the details of a destination wedding from home; however you can take care of a lot of them.

If you are not having a wedding coordinator then you need to appoint a close friend or family member to be in charge of coordinating your wedding. As the bride, you will not have time to be overseeing last minute details the day of the wedding. You will need someone to make sure everyone is where they should be, the appropriate music is playing, the flowers are in the correct spot, oversee the delivery of the cake, etc. You need help, as the bride should have time to enjoy and savor being a bride on her wedding day.

You should write down all of your wants, wishes and desires along with the costs of each. This will help you to decide where you can trim your budget, what is most important to you and if you can eliminate something all together.

Make the following categories in your wedding planner booklet:

Budget – in this section write down the allotted funds for each of your categories. Decide which is most important to you. If you love real flowers and cannot live without them, then this is one of the most important areas of your wedding and you should allot enough funds to cover it. Maybe the venue is the most important to you or having a DJ or band at the reception.

Guest List – Write out your total guests list then see if you can trim it. The more people you invite the most it costs. So, eliminate people you haven’t seen in several years or people you don’t maintain close contact.
Invitations – Buying invitations online or at your local discount store and print them yourself will save quite a bit. Maybe you don’t have a printer that will do the task or don’t feel comfortable doing it – chances are I’ll bet you know someone who will be willing to help you.

Venue – There are so many venues to choose from and there are many variances in prices. Now is the time to decide – inside or outside; or maybe you want the ceremony inside and the reception inside. Do you want both at the same location? Venue options: Your church, a college chapel, lodge, state park, pavilion on the lake, field, barn, park, beach, a friend or family member’s yard, country club, hotel or convention center ballroom, garden, river pavilion, ranch, arena, mountain overlook or top, castle, plantation, farm…Your imagination is the limit, there are many places to get married. Pick one that holds a special meaning for you and your fiancée or some place that will accommodate the type of wedding you want.

Dress – Looking for a dress can be a daunting task. Look through some magazine to find a style that appeals to you. There are many places that offer discounts on wedding dresses. One national chain bridal store offers $99.00 dresses. Another option is looking online. If you go to some bridal stores, find a dress you like and determine the size – then go online to seek it at a lower price. There are several auction sites that sell wedding accessories, dresses, supplies, etc. online.

Attendants – How many attendants do you want? The more you choose, the more flowers you will need, etc. Bridesmaid and Maid of Honor dresses can be found many places. You can look at that national chain store I was talking about. They have many reasonable dresses but you can look at some department stores. Depends on what type of dress you have in mind. If you are looking for tea-length dresses, you will have a good selection at many department stores. Again, you can look at the stores – determine the style and size then shop online. Allow ample time for shipping – don’t wait until the last minute. I would choose a reputable person and if I chose to deal with someone from an auction site, I would make sure they have excellent feedback.

If the men in the wedding party are wearing tux's I would recommend renting them locally.

Are you planning on Jr. bridesmaids, ring bearer, flower girl, candlelighters, ushers, etc. This is the place to list them and any costs that you will incur connect with them.

Flowers – Buy flowers wholesale and enlist family and friends to make the bouquets, boutonnieres and arrangements. If you want fresh, be prepared to pay more. Use fresh flowers that are in-season and readily available in your area. If you can live with artificial flowers and don’t want to make the bouquets & arrangements– shop around on the internet. There are lots of bargains out there for the savvy shopper. Get your family and friends to help you search online for places that have the type of flowers you want. You may be able to use some of the arrangements from the ceremony at the reception.

Officiant – Your local minister may marry you for a small fee. Maybe a family member is a minister or wedding officiant. Find someone that you and your fiancée can agree upon. If you are having a destination wedding you will have to work with someone from that area to arrange the details of your wedding for you.

Reception – Do you want to serve a meal, finger foods, or cake and punch, only? If you plan to serve a meal, do you want it catered or do you have a friend or family member that can be in charge of the food? Do you have tables and chairs or do you need to rent them? Many places rent chairs for $2-$3 each and charge a setup fee and a pickup fee. You can rent tables, chairs, tents, etc. If you hire a caterer, are they bringing the tableware or are you responsible? If you opt for finger foods, you or a family member may prepare them ahead and freeze them. Sam’s Club, Costco, etc. have many appetizers available. If you decide to take care of the food yourselves instead of hiring a caterer or using venue with a food service, someone will need to be assigned to oversee the details. If you go this option, I would rent rather than buy any items that I could.

Cake – Do you want a small, medium or large cake? Do you plan to hire someone to bake the cake, contact a bakery, or do you have a friend or family member that bakes cakes. Are you planning to have a groom’s cake? Some people opt to not have a large cake. They have small 2-tiered cakes on each table, using them as centerpieces and eliminating the cost of flowers for each table. If you decide to go with a larger wedding cake, shop around. The style and size of cake will determine the cost. When you receive your RSVP’s then you can decide the size of the cake. If you are having a meal, snack foods, appetizers, finger foods and serving liquor then you will not need as much cake as you would if you are serving cake and punch only.

Liquor – Do you plan to serve liquor at your wedding? This can be a budget eater but many people want to server liquor. You need to determine if the venue you have chosen will allow liquor. If so, do they provide the liquor, are you allowed to bring your own in, can you have a margarita machine, etc. Who is responsible for the set-ups – glasses, ice, sodas, etc. Do the provide a bartender or do you need to make arrangements for someone to tend the bar? If you need to reduce costs, choose a venue that you can bring your own liquor, set-ups and your own bartender. This is the most cost effective way. Limit the alcoholic selections to what you think most of your guests will prefer. These are your friends and family members so you should be able to determine what will most likely be in the highest demand.

Now, for entertainment at the reception – do you want music? If you decide on a DJ, check around, the prices vary drastically. The best deal on DJ services I have found is at DJ Connection in Tulsa, OK. They have many DJ’s and travel to many states. I know they serve the AR, TX, OK area and may have other locations as well. You are not limited to 2 hours, they will play the music for the wedding ceremony and the reception, have margarita machines and karaoke machine for rent. They are professional and willing to work with you on making your music selections. Look for them at http://www.djconnectiontulsa.com/. If you don’t want to allocate funds for a DJ, maybe a family member or friend will be able be in charge of music for your reception.

If you are having a western-themed wedding with an outside venue you could have a couple of places set up for the guests to play horseshoes, a steer head anchored in a hay bale for roping, stick horses for the kiddies, etc.

Favors – If you want favors, there are many that you can make yourself. If you don’t want to or don’t have the time – search around the internet or drop by our website. Buy your favors bulk, then have a party with your friends to assemble them. There are many affordable favors and you can find some for any budget.

Miscellaneous - This section is for items that don't fit any other place. Anything that costs you needs to be listed, along with the price.

You may want a unity candle, a sand ceremony, special glasses for the toast, garter, pillow for the ring bearer, flower girl baskets, rice bags, guest book, etc.

These are a few of the areas I wanted to cover today. I’ll be posting other thoughts along the way. Feel free to add your comments or suggestions to this post.

The Muse’s 100th Blog Post Giveaway

2009-01-12T17:07:00.000-06:00

Please go by a certain Muse’s page and help her reach her goal of 200 comments. If she reaches 200 by Tues. (tomorrow), she will donate $1000 to the American Cancer Society. This is an organization that I am deeply supportive of as many members of my family have had cancer. My Dad and my father-in-law are cancer survivors. You never know when this dreaded disease may rear its ugly head and change your family member’s life. I think this is a wonderful way for the Muse to celebrate her 100th post – all we have to do is help her celebrate by posting our comments.

I believe she is giving away other prizes, as well. Be sure to visit her blog at www.adivashammer.blogspot.com and help her out. At the present time the blog you should comment on is the 2nd one down the page and is titled “The Muse 100th Post Reaches For The Stars”.

I Said Yes....Now the Quest

2009-01-11T23:34:00.002-06:00

Down upon bended knee,
My sweetie came to me.
Will you please be my bride,
Yes, I answered with great pride.
He pulled the ring from his pocket,
Shining, shimmering – a token of his love,
The diamond was my favorite,
The one I had dreamt of.
My mind overflowing with happiness,
My energy level is boundless.
We must get busy…make plans,
Where do we begin?
Let’s pick a date, a venue, a dress,
Oh my, I cannot rest!
Should we have a theme,
Or just follow our dream.
Full of ideas my mind is racing,
Around the room I was pacing.
Exhausted I fell into bed,
Tomorrow I’ll search at Delightfully Wed.

Debbie L Wahl

Choices

2009-01-02T15:46:00.003-06:00

Fresh as the new fallen snow,
New beginnings offer many places to go.
Should I choose the path already blazed,
or the one twisted as a maze?
The passage lies before me beckoning come,
Luring with a taste of new found freedom.
Unknown territory, ventures galore,
knocking upon my door.
Be brave, be bold...
Who knows what the future holds.
Beginnings, endings, or somewhere in between,
All things are not meant to be seen.
Take a chance with the uncharted way,
This could be your very best day.
Embrace each moment as your last,
Regrets will never cloud the past.

Hope of the New Year

2008-12-30T12:54:00.002-06:00

Count down…this is it!
Out with old – in with the new.
The kiss…oh the kiss,
The first of the year.
Tingling all the way to the toes,
My heart is aglow.
Full of friendship, laughter and love,
Cherishing all of the above.
Shouts abound welcoming the New Year.
Champagne corks bursting in air,
Boisterously singing Auld Lang Syne,
Fireworks lighting the midnight sky,
Giving hope to all that pass by.
A new beginning, a new life,
A new slate…fresh and clean,
God has granted us this chance,
Look above and seek His Love,
Guidance and Strength…

Debbie L Wahl

The New Year's Resolution

2008-12-30T12:50:00.001-06:00

Should I or should I not? That’s not the hard part. I can make a New Year’s resolution, but can I stick with it and follow through? My intentions are good but my willpower is not always strong. As I was thinking about New Year’s resolutions, I begin wondering how they got started in the first place. So, I was off to do a little research.

I know that making a resolution is a time-honored tradition, a chance to start over, rid yourself of bad habits and have a fresh, positive outlook on life - but how did it all get started? The history of the resolution began over two thousand years ago. Our first month of the year is named after the mythical Roman King Janus, who is a two-faced symbol. His two faces do not represent hypocrisy, but they do represent the ability to look back on the past and look forward to the future. The Romans asked for forgiveness from their enemies in the celebration of the New Year.

I did not realize that the start of the New Year had been moved around and had not always been Jan. 1. Various people of the world have celebrate New Years on: the night of the first moon after the vernal equinox – the first day of spring, the winter solstice, and phases of the moon. There may be more so don’t take this as an all inclusive list. Even today, the New Year does not begin on Jan. 1 for all cultures. It does begin on Jan. 1 for people who use a 365-day solar calendar. Jan. 1 became the beginning of the New Year in 46 BC. For people using a lunar calendar with the phases based on the moon rather than the seasons, the new year begins at the time of the first full moon over the Far East after the sun enters Aquarius – sometime between January 19 and February 21. The New Year – new beginnings, a clean slate no matter how you celebrate or when your new year begins.

If you know of any interesting facts on how New Year’s resolutions got started, please feel free to add to this post.

Pumpkin Squares

2008-11-26T22:37:00.002-06:00

24 single graham crackers, crushed
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted margarine

Mix graham cracker crumbs & sugar. Stir in melted margarine - pat in buttered 13x9x2 baking dish.

2 eggs
1 - 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar

Beat eggs, sugar & cream cheese until fluffy. Pour over crust - bake 20 minutes. Cool.

1 (1 lb.) can pumpkin
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1/4 c. water - cold

Beat pumpkin, egg yolks, sugar, milk & cinnamon in top of a double broiler. Cook over boiling water, stirring frequently until thick - aobut 8 minutes. Sprinkle gelatin on water in small saucepan. Stir into pumpkin mixture. Cool.

3 egg whites
1/4 cup sugar

Beat egg whites until foamy. Beat in sugar, continue beating until thick & glossy. Gently fold into cooled pumpkin mixture. Pour over (cooled) baked mixture. Refrigerate at least 4 hours. Spread cool whip over the top of pumpkin mixture. Garnish with finely chopped pecans. Cut into squares.

This recipe was handed down to me from my mother-in-law. It is a family favorite and is a big hit any place I've ever taken it. There is not much baking to it. Hope you enjoy it!

Gobble 'Til You Wobble!

2008-11-25T08:58:00.002-06:00

It’s that’s time of year. What does Thanksgiving mean to you? I take time to reflect on the many blessings I have received. I have much to be thankful for this year. My life has been enriched by the many people whose paths have crossed and intertwined with mine. I have experienced some sad times this year but even those have left me thinking that I have much to be thankful for. I have truly enjoyed a blessed life. I will continue to seek the joy in each and every day. I will spread it around whenever possible and help others along the way.

Some of the things I have to be thankful for (not necessarily in the correct order):

*God (and the freedom to worship in any way I choose)
*My family
*My friends (here and online)
*Love
*My health (and my family’s)
*My Dad’s steps in his recovery
*My son-in-law’s recuperation from his hunting accident
*Freedom
*The men and women who protect our country.
*Our home (warm and welcoming)
*That I don’t owe a large mortgage
*That I don’t owe large amounts of credit card bills
*My business is prospering
*Laughter
*Sunshine
*To be able to help others or to lift their spirits

Life is good and for that I am very thankful. Blessings to each and every one of you.

And remember Gobble ‘til you Wobble!!!! You can always diet the next day! If you are a Black Friday Shopper you will shop off all of those calories.

I Received This From Nina's Window

2008-11-23T21:22:00.004-06:00

www.ninaswindow.blogspot.com
Thanks, Nina! I am honored that you chose me.:)

Here are the guidelines for receiving this award.
1. Put the logo on your blog (check)
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you (check)
3. Nominate 10 other blogs for this award (done)
4. Add links to those blogs (done)
5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs (done)
6. Give a reason why you consider their blogs cool (done)
Here are the 10 coolest blogs I have chosen to receive this award!

Here are my ten blogs:

Weird Stuff In My Desk http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com/
The Mom Lady http://themomlady.wordpress.com/
White Iris Designs http://whiteirisdesigns.blogspot.com/
Uniquely Pampered http://pamper-you.blogspot.com/
Just Right Candles http://justrightcandles.blogspot.com
House of Raquel http://houseofraquel.blogspot.com
Country Keepsakes http://countrykeepsakes07.wordpress.com/
Petit http://petitcomau.blogspot.com
Artisanne http://artisanne-scotland.blogspot.com
My Bizzy World http://mybizzyworld.blogspot.com

Braided Bird Wreath

2008-11-23T20:33:00.002-06:00

During this cold weather, please don't forget our feathered friends. Here's an easy treat you can make for them. They'll flock to this treat, and you'll enjoy watching them!

1 lb. frozen bread dough, thawed
peanut butter
wild birdseed

Roll out dough into a 30" rope. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into thirds lengthwise and braid. Place braided dough on a greased baking sheet, forming a circle. Seal the edges of dough by pinching them together. Cover with a clean dish towel and let rise one hour or until double in size. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 or 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from baking sheet and let cool. Spread peanut butter on top of wreath and sprinkle with birdseed. Hang outside for the birds to enjoy.

Soapbox Giveaway

2008-11-05T23:33:00.002-06:00

Here’s a pretty awesome giveaway that Rachel from Weird Stuff In My Desk (you may know her from the bloggy carnival) found out about this week. She thought everyone would like to enter since she knows how much we love entering and winning prizes! So if you want a chance to win some great free items visit http://ismellgood.com/bonanza. You may follow the link or click on the banner.

You must to go each week and re-enter. It says you have 3 chances to win - I think that is 3 chances each week, if you take advantage of all 3 offers.

A new prize is posted every week (on the Mondays) for seven weeks! You can fill out the official entry form one time (each week) for each prize, so be sure to go back every week to enter the new giveaway. At the end of the Bonanza they will draw a winner to receive $100 in Soap Box Bonanza Bucks to spend at thesoapboxco.com! All accumulated entries from the start of the Bonanza (Monday, November 3rd ) to the end of the Bonanza (Sunday, December 21st ) will automatically entered to win The Soap Box Bonanza Bucks giveaway! If you enter each week you will have more entries for the Soap Box Bonanza Bucks. I saw lots of items to choose from, so I would have no problem spending those bucks!

I'm entering, I hope I win! If you win something, let me know and send a picture. I'll post it for all to see. Good luck to everyone!

Thanks Rachel for letting us know about this great giveaway!

Delightfully Christmas!

2008-11-05T09:17:00.012-06:00

Delightfully Christmas is our new website in the making. At this time we offer our handcrafted ornaments section on Delightfully Wed and in our Ebay Store.

If you have any ideas of an ornament you would like created, contact us and we will be happy to work with you. I love working on Christmas! Here are some of our creations - the bandana ornaments are 3" and have a quilted-look.

We will be posting and updating our newest creations in the coming weeks. Some of them will make their debut here and will be available immediately, although they may not be listed on the website. Check back often ~ we would love to help westernize your tree!

Best wishes for a very Merry Christmas!

Perfect Words for Special Occasions

2008-11-02T16:14:00.000-06:00

You may be battling for the perfect wedding vows. You want your vows to be special and from the heart. Maybe the words are simply escaping you. Not all of us are able to express ourselves well with the written word. If writing is not your area of expertise, I can point you in the direction of someone that I feel is highly qualified to help you in your time of need. This lady creates custom poetry, wedding vows, and speeches for special occasions.

Maybe you need a toast for the bride and groom. You really want to make an impact on the happy couple and just don’t know where to start. Imagine the surprise on your bride’s (or groom’s) face when you present her (or him) with a custom poem on your wedding day. What a great memento of your special day. Or you may want to present the mother of the bride and groom with a special custom poem.

Poems and speeches by the Muse aren’t just for weddings. I naturally talk about weddings as that is the business I am in. I think a custom poem would make a wonderful gift for anyone that holds a special place in your heart or to capture a special moment in your life.

You may reach the Muse at the following email: muse@i-am-the-muse.com. The website is www.i-am-the-muse.com.

I have not been paid or asked to promote the Muse. I am a big fan of her prose and want to share her special abilities with the world.

Quick and Easy Appetizer Recipes

2008-10-29T11:39:00.000-05:00

I love trying new recipes and thought I’d pass along a few. With the holiday season fast approaching, I know most people will need a finger food, hors d’oeuvre or appetizer dish to take to a function. Many of these dishes can be served at different types of bridal showers, baby showers, bachelorette parties, family get-togethers, office parties, birthday parties, new years, etc. Hope you find one you would like to try. We will be posting recipes frequently during the coming weeks.

Hot Holiday Broccoli Dip

Serves 25
Prep Time 10 minutes / Baking Time 20-25 minutes

1 c. mayonnaise
1 c. mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1 pkg (10 oz.) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed & well drained
1 jar (2 oz.) pimientos, drained
Wheat Thins or cracker of your choice

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine mayonnaise, ½ c. of the mozzarella cheese,
the Parmesan cheese, broccoli and pimientos. Spread into a baking dish or a 9-inch
pie plate. Bake 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining ½ c. mozzarella cheese. Continue baking 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with crackers.

Mini-Broccoli & Ham Cups

Serves 24
Prep Time 15 minutes / Baking Time 15 minutes

1 pkg (10 oz) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed & well drained
1/4 c. chopped sun-dried tomatoes
4 oz. Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread
1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
24 slices shaved smoked ham
1/3 c. chopped smoked almonds
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix broccoli, tomatoes, cream cheese spread, Parmesan cheese & garlic powder until well blended. Flatten ham slices. Press 1 ham slice onto bottom and up side of each of 24 miniature muffin pan cups. Fill evenly with the broccoli mixture; sprinkle with almonds. Bake 15 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm.

Vegetable Pastry Purses
Prep. Time 20 minutes / Cook Time 20 minutes

1/2 pkg. frozen puff pastry (12 oz.) 1 sheet
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. fresh shallots, minced
1 c. frozen corn
1 c. fresh mushrooms, chopped
1/4 c. Holland House Marsala Cooking Wine
1/2 tsp. white pepper
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
3 c. fresh spinach
1 egg beaten
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Thaw puff pastry as directed. Unfold pastry on lightly floured surface. Roll into 12” x 9” rectangle. Cut into 12 (3”) squares. Heat oil in sauté pan over high heat. Add shallots, corn, and mushrooms; sauté for 1 minute. Add cooking wine and seasonings. Add spinach and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Place 1 Tbsp. filling in center of each square. Brush edges of square with beaten egg. Bring four corners together, pressing firmly. Pull up and twist corners making top of purse. Place on a baking sheet and brush purse with egg. Bake in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve.

Spinach-Soufflé-Stuffed Mushrooms

Makes about 2-1/2 dozen
Prep Time 5 minutes / Baking Time 25 minutes

1 pkg (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 lb. Havarti cheese, cut into ½” cubes
1/3 c. grated Parmesan cheese
3 eggs
2 Tbsp. milk
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 lbs. medium-size white mushrooms (about 30), stems removed & caps cleaned
1/2 tsp. salt
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Put spinach, Havarti, Parmesan, eggs, milk, garlic powder, oregano, pepper and nutmeg in processor. Pulse until cheese is finely chopped. Place mushroom caps on 11 x 15 x 1/2-inch baking pan. Coat mushrooms with cooking spray; sprinkle with salt. Fill each cap with 1 level tablespoon spinach mixture. (Can be made a day ahead; refrigerate, tightly covered). Bake at 375 degrees for 25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is set.

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Prep Time 20 minutes/ Marinate 15 minutes
Microwave 1 minute / Broil 5 minutes

24 medium-size shrimp (about 1 pound), shelled & deveined
1/3 c. prepared balsamic vinaigrette
12 slices bacon
25 pickled jalapeno slices
1/2 c. mayonnaise
1 Tbsp. chili sauce
1 Tbsp. sweet pickle relish
1 Tbsp. minced sweet red pepper
Place shrimp & vinaigrette into a large resealable plastic bag; refrigerate for 15 minutes. Microwave bacon for 1 minute on high. Cut slices in half crosswise (for a total of 24 pieces) and let cool. Heat broiler. Coat a large broiler pan with nonstick cooking spray. Remove shrimp from marinade, reserving marinade. Put one piece of bacon on work surface. Place a shrimp at one end; tuck a jalapeno slice into curl of shrimp. Roll bacon up tightly to enclose filling. Repeat using all bacon, shrimp & jalapenos.
For dipping sauce - stir together mayonnaise, chili sauce, pickle relish, red pepper and 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl. Place shrimp rolls on prepared pan. Brush with reserved marinade. Broil 3 minutes. Turn, brush with marinade and broil 2 minutes. Serve with sauce for dipping.

Caramel Apple Dip

8oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. caramel ice cream topping
1/4 c. honey
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
3 to 4 green & red apples, cored and sliced
In a medium serving bowl, combine cream cheese, caramel topping, honey & 1/4 tsp. cinnamon. Beat until the mixture is smooth. Store in refrigerator until chilled. Sprinkle top with cinnamon – serve with apple slices.

Western Wedding Cake Toppers

2008-10-28T22:35:00.000-05:00

There is a large variety of western wedding cake toppers on the market today. We create our own toppers at Delightfully Wed, we don’t buy them already made and resell them. If you buy one of our handcrafted cake toppers, you are buying a cake topper that is designed and created by Delightfully Wed. We do not mass produce our cake toppers. Our designs are sold exclusively at www.delightfullywed.com.
We have toppers that feature a bride and groom as do most traditional toppers. We created a cake topper tub several years ago and now have many toppers in that line-up. The cake topper tubs are created on mini galvanized tubs. These toppers are versatile. They may used on the wedding cake or the groom’s cake. Some people have used them for shower cakes, bridal and baby and birthday cakes. If the little cowboy in your family wants a western cake for his birthday, perhaps you will find the perfect topper.
If your theme is sunflowers – we have a western sunflower topper, we have a daisy topper, a country lane topper, a beach western themed topper and many, many more. If you see something you like, but would like us to change it up just a bit – just ask. We love creating new items. We are posting a few pictures of some of our western cake toppers; we have many more on the website.

This is a sampling of the toppers we have available - to see the complete line-up,please visit our website www.delightfullywed.com.

Haunted Bloggy Carnival is Here! Over 2300.00 in Prizes!

2008-10-27T06:51:00.000-05:00

We are participating in the Haunted Bloggy Carnival. Join the fun - win prizes!
If you enter this contest - be sure to tell them that Delightfully Wed sent you! Read below to see how easy it is to win wonderful prizes from some great companies!

Haunted Bloggy Carnival is Here! Over $2330.00 In Prizes! International Too!

Special Announcement from Weird Stuff in my Desk. Please note - enter on WeirdStuffinmyDesk.com, NOT here!

Welcome to the Wierd Stuff In My Desk Haunted Bloggy Carnival Spooktacular event! The carnival starts at 8:00 am Central time October 27th ALL WEEK and ends on November 2nd at 11:59 pm Pacific time. Comments will be enabled at that time so you won't be able to post until then.

The winners will be contacted and announced sometime the week of the 3rd. You will have to give us some time to sort through all of the hundreds of entries. Thanks for your patience on this.

Hang on to your seats and keyboards because we have a line up of prize contributions like we have never seen before. Right now we have over $2317.00 in prizes up for grabs!! AND another $3700.00 in prizes at our sister site Bitten By Books! Check those prizes out here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=1526. If we don't have enough prizes for your blood, remember to visit all of the other participating blogs at the main Bloggy Carnival page here.

Keep checking back here, because the list will GROW eerily larger as more companies join in on the Haunted Blog Carnival fun! If you would like to contribute a prize and promote your products, service, books or business, please email us through our CONTACT FORM.

Now I bet you are wondering just how you can win some of this spectacular loot! There are a TON of ways to win. Do to different states laws you MUST be 18 to enter. You do NOT have to have a blog to participate.

OH!! and if you like discount coupons, be sure to stop by our Discount Code Page!

****************************************************
CONTEST INFO

Readers, here's how to enter the contest. You can do ONE OR ALL of these things, and each one will give an additional entry and thus MORE chances to win. Check next to each contributors page to see if there are MORE ways you can get chances win.

1. Join the NEW Bitten By Books Community and start a page to talk about all things paranormal fiction! Meet authors, join in on upcoming contests an more! You can have your own blog where you can post about THIS contest (and that gets you an entry). You can start groups and chat in our forums as well as participate in live chat. Best of all it is FREE. Paranormal authors come and start fan page for yourself! Here's the link! Sign up and join in the fun!
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/
You get 10 additional entries for joining our community!

2. SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter here on the right hand side of the site. You MUST verify your subscription via the email the site will send you. Unverified subscribers will not be entered into the contest. This option is for new subscribers only.

3. Visit each of the sites who have contributed to our event below and pick ONE favorite item from each store and come post the LINK to that item or the page the items is on here in this post. You can do one or all of the sites, you get an entry for each business you visit and the ONE item link you post here. Try to combine all of your items into one big post. NOTE: Don't worry if your post doesn't show up right away or you get an error message, the spam filter on the site will catch it if there are too many links. I will approve your posts so no need to worry, if this happens please don't post your list multiple times. Check back later in the week to see if it is up.

4. Post this blog post in it's entirety with a link to our contest on your blog, groups, forums or websites and you will be given FIVE additional entries to win for EACH place you post. You MUST post the links where you have shared the info in one response here in this thread. The more places you post the event, the more entries you get, so spread the word! NOTE: Don't worry if your post doesn't show up right away or you get an error message, the spam filter on the site will catch it if there are too many links. I will approve your posts so no need to worry, if this happens please don't post your list multiple times. Check back later in the week to see if it is up.

5. Make a purchase between 10/27-11/2 from ANY or all of the retailers participating on our page (see list below) and send us a copy of the receipt for your purchase to: racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces) for an additional FIVE entries. You get entries for every purchase you make. Be SURE to put WSIMD Contest Entry in the subject line so it doesn't get lost in our spam filter. NOT valid on past purchases.

6. Read through the Weird Stuff In My Desk blog and find your favorite product review and come back here and post the LINK to it. One favorite review per contestant please.

7. Add us as your friend on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bittenbybooks
8. Add us as your friend on Facebook: http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=614064436
9. Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BittenbyBooks
Be sure to mention that you are friending us for this contest so we know to enter you! All of our WSIMD updates go through these accounts since we are sister sites. That's why the links say Bitten by Books. :)

10. Stumble, Digg or share the post with any social networking sites. There is a button right at the end of this post that says "Share" that you can use.

11. Twitter the URL for this event throughout the week: http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com/?p=176
12. Add Weird Stuff In My Desk to your blog roll or links page: http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com if you leave our link up permanently you will always be entered into our contests automatically. Just be sure to stop by each contest we hold and leave the link to where it is.

13. Invite ALL of your friends! If your fiends come and post here and say you sent them, they get TWO entries and you get TWO entries! They have to tell us who you are so we know who to give the entries to. You can invite as many people as you want and get all the extra entries!

Be sure you leave a valid email and your name AND COUNTRY when posting here so we can contact you if you are the winner. We will contact the winners and request your first/last name and a valid email which we will give to the retailer whose prize you have one. It is up to the individual retailers to award your prizes. If we do not hear back from winners within one week of contacting you, you prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be chosen. We reserve the right to delete any inappropriate or inflammatory remarks or comments. Bitten by Books is NOT liable for prizes that are not delivered, awarded or lost in the mail. It is the sole responsibility of each contributor to honor their prize obligation.

And last but certainly not least A BIG thank you to our fabulous contributors!!

Here is the list of AMAZING prizes you are trying to win!

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Glutenada - 2 -$65.00 gift certificates to their online store, two winners. Shipping to US and Canada only.
http://glutenada.com/Glutenada offers the very best in premium, just-like-homemade, gluten-free mixes and creamy, dreamy fudge in a jar - Spoonfudge!

Livin' La Vida Low-Carb - An AMAZING prize package including: a 12 pack Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Sugar-Free Raspberry Dark Chocolate bars, a 12-pack Dark Chocolate Sugar-Free ChocoPerfection bars,an autographed copy of paperback book "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year". Valued at $106.00. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.livinlavidalowcarb.com/Author of "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year"
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Jimmy's Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

Bin Hog Designs - 2 each $50.00 gift certificates to their online store, two winners. Worldwide shipping
http://www.binhog.com/Custom & Personalized luggage handle wraps

Lathers & Lights - $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.lathersnlights.com/Lathers & Lights is dedicated to producing quality skin care products and candles that inspire you to slow down, take a break, and pamper yourself from head to toe. You deserve it!

Beaded Hemp - 5 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store, five winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.beadedhemp.com/Beaded Hemp carries hand milled soaps, bath & body products, and flameless home fragrance, with over 200 scents to choose from.

Meringue - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online etsy store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.meringueshop.etsy.com/Hands-free handbags for stylish women

Jessicurl - 4 each $25.00 gift certificates to their online store, four winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.Jessicurl.com You Have the Right to Remain Curly!

Lathered Up - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping within the US only.
http://www.latheredup.com/
Lathered Up offers a diverse selection of pure and natural soaps, bath and body products for self-indulgence or wonderful gifts.

Just Right Candles - 5 each $20.00 gift certificates, 5 winners. Worldwide shipping though not included in GC amount.
http://www.justrightcandles.com/JRC offers you a SAFE wickless alternative to traditional candles. No Flame, No Soot, Just Scent.

Bitten by Books Review Staff - 2 electronic copies of the epic story "Nothing But Red". This is not a paranormal story, but it is a book with a collection of stories that impacts women worldwide. The review team of BBB would like to spread the word about this important work and encourage each of you to purchase your own print or e-book copy of "Nothing But Red" in support of woman and ultimately humankind. About the book:
"In April 2007, a group of men pulled seventeen-year-old Du'a Khalil Aswad into a mob. They proceeded to stone and beat her to death, a supposed "honor" killing for allegedly falling in love with a man of a different faith. Several camera phones recorded the entire incident from the front row, and videos later surfaced online. One month later, popular filmmaker Joss Whedon expressed his despair and outrage at the misogyny in all cultures on a fan-run blog. "Because it's no longer enough to be a decent person," he wrote. "It's no longer enough to shake our heads and make concerned grimaces at the news. True enlightened activism is the only thing that can save humanity from itself. I've always had a bent towards apocalyptic fiction, and I'm beginning to understand why. I look and I see the earth in flames. Her face was nothing but red." The arts anthology Nothing But Red was conceived as a way to raise both awareness of the issues he spoke of, as well as money for the charity Equality Now." Buy the book here: http://stores.lulu.com/nothingbutred
If you purchase a copy of this book and send us the reciept, you will get TWENTY additional entries!

Bauble Bath - One Holiday Gift basket valued at $75.00 with 3 scrubs (Candy Cane, Sugar Plum, Gingerbread). We three Kings bauble set (3 scented with Frankincense and Myrh). Holiday Candy Bauble set ( 8 mini baubles in a variety of "candy" fragrances ), Snowmen and Penguin bath melts. 2 soaps in cinnamon and Honey almond and 3 Lip Balms. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.baublebath.com/Thick Creamy scrubs as well as bath bombs in indulgent fragrances.

The Ivy Keep - 3 each $25.00 (Canadian) gift certificates. Three winners, shipping to US, Canada and most international countries.
http://www.ivykeep.com/Everyone has the right to affordable luxuries: beautifully crafted handmade soaps to rejuvenate your body, gourmet loose leaf teas and exotic flavored teas from around the world to rejuvenate your spirits and luscious hot cocoa treats to pamper and relax you.

Moody Bee Beeswax Lip Balm - One prize package of 15 lip balms shipped to anywhere in Canada or the US - perfect for Christmas! Valued at $65.00
http://www.moodybee.com/All natural beeswax lip balm made by a Canadian beekeeper

Brenna Lyons - Brenna is offering PDF copies of every e-book release she has in 2009 to one winner (approx $50 value) and one signed print book of choice to a second winner (approx $15 value). Shipping to US and Canada only.
http://www.brennalyons.com/
"Brenna writes milieu-heavy dark fantasy, science fiction and horror books, straight genre through erotic romance; all winners of Brenna's materials should be age 18 or over."
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Brenna's site and pick any book you would like to read, then come back here and post a LINK to that book. Only one book choice is necessary.

The Blue Raven Tea Co. - 3 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store, three winners. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.blueraventea.comLet us delight you with our irresistible and fragrant teas. Every cup is a journey.

Crater Lake Company - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.craterlakecompany.com
Crater Lake Company specializes in providing all the luxurious necessities to transform the bathing experience into a joyful treat and soothing retreat. With a discerning eye to detail for the ingredients we use, a keen nose for unique fragrances and a finger on the pulse of the market, we are pleased to present a palette of superior products in a fun and exciting way so that you can create your own work of art in your bath!

A Woman with Scents - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.awomanwithscents.com/
Scented soy candles and artisan soaps.

Bad Girlz Bath Co. - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://www.badgirlzbath.com/"We're the Passionate bath & body company. Check us out. We're NOT your mothers bath & body shop, We're Lot's more Fun!!"

Overall Beauty - A prize package including 4 mineral eye shadows colors and one blush. $50.00 value. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.overallbeauty.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=77
Offering pure natural mineral eye shadows and blushes we all can enjoy.

Kettlepot Soap - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.kettlepotsoap.com/
There's something magical about Kettlepot Soap! Natural, handcrafted products for skin care.

Ugly Duckling Designs - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.theuglyducklingdesigns.com/We offer richly scented, hand poured candles, tarts and primitive designs.

TarotByArwen - Consultation with professional Tarot consultant, Stephanie Arwen Lynch, president of the American Tarot Association. Valued at $50.00.
http://www.tarotbyarwen.com
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Arwen's Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

Destiny's Creations - 2 each $25.00 Gift Certificates to their online store. Two winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.shopdestinyscreations.com/
Handmade one of a kind art jewelry with fine silver, gemstones, and artisan lampwork beads. A modern mix of Victorian and romantic jewelry.

Ginger's Garden - A gift basket with handmade soaps and skin care worth $50.00 with your choice of fragrance. Shipping to the US only.
http://www.gingersgarden.com/Come visit Ginger's Garden for handmade soaps, skin and body care, gift baskets, toiletries, Zodiac Perfume blends, sculpted soap flowers and more.

Bovine Bubbles and Hogwash - 2 - $25.00 gift certificates to their online store. Two winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.bovinebubbles.com/ Uddlerly the best darned handmade products under the sun!

Lily Gulch Soaps - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Free shipping with this gift certificate.
http://www.lilygulchsoaps.com/Handmade 100% natural cold process soaps, unique bath & body products and natural bath accessories.

Broken Teepee Designs - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping included with this prize.
http://www.brokenteepeedesigns.com/Beautiful beaded jewelry made in Montana

Pampertini - $25.00 Gift Certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.pampertini.com/
We offer a variety of pampering items for you to enjoy, whether you are a shower person or love to indulge in a tub of bubbles, come by for some ONE STOP SHOPPING fun!

Delightfully Wed - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.delightfullywed.com/Visit us for your bridal shower, wedding, baby shower, party or birthday party accessories, favors and supplies. We specialize in western-themed items and handcrafted western Christmas ornaments.

Candles and Woodcrafts - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store with free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.candlesandwoodcrafts.com/ We provide a wide array of items from wooden soap molds and displays to wax tarts, finished woodcrafts, clocks, lighted holiday items….way to much to mention in one line so come on over and take a look!

Snowberry Creek - A gift certificate good for one Snowberry Creek Sampler box with free shipping in the US. Valued at $22.95
http://www.snowberrycreek.com/A box full of luxurious, fragrant samples and full-sized items for your pampering pleasure!
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Snoweberry Creek site, find the past e-tailers page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Chunky Butt Candle & Bath Co. - A $30.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.chunkybuttcandles.com/
We specialize in wickless soy candles, soy melts, and bath and body.

Lindsay's Candles & Stuff - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.lindsayscandles.com/Wonderfully pampering handcrafted candles, soaps and bath & body products.

Jojoelle - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.jojoelle.com/
Quality bath and body products available in over 400 scents!

Robed in Fantasy - 1 Custom Made Pirate Shirt Value $22.00. Worldwide shipping.
http://stores.ebay.com/Robed-In-Fantasy
Robed in Fantasy. Magical creations from the realm of imagination. We specialize in medieval reenactment/live action role play clothing, gothic inspired clothing, gowns, wedding attire and costumes. If you can imagine it, we should be able to make it. We offer custom and ready-made garments.

Sidhe Na Daire - One set of custom-made costume horns or cat ears. Valued at $15.00. US shipping only.
http://www.sidhenadaire.com/promoTM.htmCelebrate the Launch of Danielle Ackley-McPhail's Long-Awaited novel Tomorrow's Memories, the sequel to Yesterday's Dreams. Also, see webpage for details on how you could win a replica Scottish Claymore.
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Sidhe Na Daire site, find the book page and pick any book you would like to read, then come back here and post a LINK to that book. Only one book choice is necessary.

Out Of The Box Sampler - 2 each sampler boxes to two winners. Valued at $20.00 each. Shipping to the US included in prize.
http://www.outoftheboxsampler.com/We cater to finding you the best etailers in the business, all in ONE box.
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Out of the Box Sampler site, find the In the Box page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Spa Secrets - A $30.00 certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.spasecrets.net/Spa Secrets offers an amazing collection of luxurious bath and body, skincare, and aromatherapy products for your home spa needs.

Flying Needle Gallery - A $20.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://www.flyingneedlegallery.com/Gifts for the Body & Home

Designing-Diva Boutique - A $25.00 gift certificate for their online store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.designing-diva.com/Artisan handcrafted silver and fused glass jewelry and home decor adornments for mortal goddesses everywhere!

Lemming Central - 1 Sampler box. Valued at $20.00. US shipping only.
http://www.lemmingcentral.com/
Lemming Central is the place for E-tailers to promote their products, so the consumers can find them! You will find all sorts of great new bath & body products, candles, tarts and even tea! Feed your addiction!
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Lemming Central site, find the Sampler page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Things That Make Scents - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada
http://www.thingsthatmakescents.com/Things That Make Scents is a Jersey Shore-based candle manufacturer offering superior customer service and a diverse menu of all-natural soy wax candles and scented wax bears. With many scents available, you are sure to find a favorite! Carrying candle accessories, gift baskets, jewelry and great gift items, its your one stop shop for your gift giving needs!

Manic Trout - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.manictrout.com/
Manic Trout has a wide array of baubles and bracelets that will add a funky finesse to your next outfit.

C.A.Milson - 5 e-books of his novel, The Chosen. 5 winners. Valued at $30.00
http://www.authorcamilson.blogspot.com/*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Chris' Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

Don't Miss Out on the Haunted Bloggy Carnvial!

2008-10-16T22:36:00.000-05:00

Our friend Rachel, of Weird Stuff in My Desk is having a wonderful promotional opportunity, a Bloggy Carnival! Don't miss out! This is a great opportunity to get your products and your website in front of many potential consumers. In addition to that, you will receive many links and this will improve your search engine rankings. This carnival is happening at the best time, right before Christmas....people are shopping....Get noticed! Contact Rachel to be a part of the Carnival...join the fun...win prizes!

How Spooky Is It?? It’s Baaackkkk!!

It’s big, it’s bold, it’s totally scary!

Yep, that’s right folks! The Bloggy Carnival is back upon us only a few scant weeks away. Right now we have over $1695.00 in prizes up for grabs here at Weird Stuff In My Desk! AND another $2823.00 in prizes at our sister site Bitten by Books! Check those prizes out here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=1364
Hang on to your seats and keyboards because we have a line up of prize contributions like we have never seen before. Below you will find a sampling of what is to come. Keep checking back, because the list will GROW eerily larger each day as more companies join in on the Haunted Blog Carnival fun! Details on the contests and how to win will be posted on Monday October 27th at 8:00 am! Until then, be sure to post on our blog http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com/?p=157 - tell us what your favorite items would be to win. Make a wish list! Who knows you may just end up with a treat this Halloween! Oh, and invite your friends! If you would like to contribute a prize and promote your books or business, please email us through our CONTACT FORM .

****************************************************

Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb - An AMAZING prize package including: a 12 pack Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Sugar-Free Raspberry Dark Chocolate bars, a 12-pack Dark Chocolate Sugar-Free ChocoPerfection bars,an autographed copy of paperback book “Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year”. Valued at $106.00. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.livinlavidalowcarb.com/
Author of “Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year”

Bin Hog Designs - 2 each $50.00 gift certificates to their online store. Two winners. Worldwide shipping
http://www.binhog.com/
Custom & Personalized luggage handle wraps

Lathers & Lights - $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.lathersnlights.com/
Lathers & Lights is dedicated to producing quality skin care products and candles that inspire you to slow down, take a break, and pamper yourself from head to toe. You deserve it!

Beaded Hemp - 5 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.beadedhemp.com/
Beaded Hemp carries hand milled soaps, bath & body products, and flameless home fragrance, with over 200 scents to choose from.

Meringue - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online etsy store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.meringueshop.etsy.com/

Hands-free handbags for stylish women

Jessicurl - 4 each $25.00 gift certificates to their online store, four winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://Jessicurl.com
You Have the Right to Remain Curly!

Lathered Up - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping within the US only.
http://www.latheredup.com/
Lathered Up offers a diverse selection of pure and natural soaps, bath and body products for self-indulgence or wonderful gifts.

Bauble Bath - One Holiday Gift basket valued at $75.00 with 3 scrubs (Candy Cane, Sugar Plum, Gingerbread). We three Kings bauble set (3 scented with Frankincense and Myrh). Holiday Candy Bauble set ( 8 mini baubles in a variety of “candy” fragrances ), Snowmen and Penguin bath melts. 2 soaps in cinnamon and Honey almond and 3 Lip Balms. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://baublebath.com/
Thick Creamy scrubs as well as bath bombs in indulgent fragrances.

The Blue Raven Tea Co. - 3 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store, three winners. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://blueraventea.com
Let us delight you with our irresistible and fragrant teas. Every cup is a journey.

Crater Lake Company - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.craterlakecompany.com
Crater Lake Company specializes in providing all the luxurious necessities to transform the bathing experience into a joyful treat and soothing retreat. With a discerning eye to detail for the ingredients we use, a keen nose for unique fragrances and a finger on the pulse of the market, we are pleased to present a palette of superior products in a fun and exciting way so that you can create your own work of art in your bath!

A Woman with Scents - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://awomanwithscents.com/
Scented soy candles and artisan soaps.

Bad Girlz Bath Co. - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://badgirlzbath.com/“We’re the Passionate bath & body company. Check us out. We’re NOT your mothers bath & body shop, We’re Lot’s more Fun!!”

Overall Beauty - A prize package including 4 mineral eye shadows colors and one blush. $50.00 value. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.overallbeauty.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=77
Offering pure natural mineral eye shadows and blushes we all can enjoy.

Kettlepot Soap - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.kettlepotsoap.com/
There’s something magical about Kettlepot Soap! Natural, handcrafted products for skin care.

Ugly Duckling Designs - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.theuglyducklingdesigns.com/
We offer richly scented, hand poured candles, tarts and primitive designs.

TarotByArwen - Consultation with professional Tarot consultant, Stephanie Arwen Lynch, president of the American Tarot Association. Valued at $50.00.
http://tarotbyarwen.com

Destiny’s Creations - 2 each $25.00 Gift Certificates to their online store. Two winners.
http://www.shopdestinyscreations.com/
Handmade one of a kind art jewelry with fine silver, gemstones, and artisan lampwork beads. A modern mix of Victorian and romantic jewelry.

Ginger’s Garden - A gift basket with handmade soaps and skin care worth $50.00 with your choice of fragrance. Shipping to the US only.
http://www.gingersgarden.com/
Come visit Ginger’s Garden for handmade soaps, skin and body care, gift baskets, toiletries, Zodiac Perfume blends, sculpted soap flowers and more.

Pampertini - $25.00 Gift Certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.pampertini.com/
We offer a variety of pampering items for you to enjoy, whether you are a shower person or love to indulge in a tub of bubbles, come by for some ONE STOP SHOPPING fun!

Delightfully Wed - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.delightfullywed.com/
Visit us for your bridal shower, wedding, baby shower, party or birthday party accessories, favors and supplies. We specialize in western-themed items and handcrafted western Christmas ornaments.

Candles and Woodcrafts - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store with free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.candlesandwoodcrafts.com/
We provide a wide array of items from wooden soap molds and displays to wax tarts, finished woodcrafts, clocks, lighted holiday items….way to much to mention in one line so come on over and take a look!

Snowberry Creek - A gift certificate good for one Snowberry Creek Sampler box with free shipping in the US. Valued at $22.95
http://www.snowberrycreek.com/
A box full of luxurious, fragrant samples and full-sized items for your pampering pleasure!

Chunky Butt Candle & Bath Co. - A $30.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.chunkybuttcandles.com/
We specialize in wickless soy candles, soy melts, and bath and body.

Lindsay’s Candles & Stuff - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.lindsayscandles.com/
Wonderfully pampering handcrafted candles, soaps and bath & body products.

Jojoelle - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.jojoelle.com/
Quality bath and body products available in over 400 scents!

Robed in Fantasy - 1 Custom Made Pirate Shirt Value $22.00. Worldwide shipping.
http://stores.ebay.com/Robed-In-Fantasy
Robed in Fantasy. Magical creations from the realm of imagination. We specialize in medieval reenactment/live action role play clothing, gothic inspired clothing, gowns, wedding attire and costumes. If you can imagine it, we should be able to make it. We offer custom and ready-made garments.

Sidhe Na Daire - One set of custom-made costume horns or cat ears. Valued at $15.00. US shipping only.
http://www.sidhenadaire.com/promoTM.htm
Celebrate the Launch of Danielle Ackley-McPhail’s Long-Awaited novel Tomorrow’s Memories, the sequel to Yesterday’s Dreams. Also, see webpage for details on how you could win a replica Scottish Claymore.

Moody Bee Beeswax Lip Balm - A gift certificate for $30.00 which will pay for 10 lip balms, including shipping to anywhere in Canada or the US - perfect for Christmas!
http://www.moodybee.com/
All natural beeswax lip balm made by a Canadian beekeeper

Out Of The Box Sampler - 2 each sampler boxes to two winners. Valued at $20.00 each. Shipping to the US included in prize.
http://www.outoftheboxsampler.com/
We cater to finding you the best etailers in the business, all in ONE box.

Spa Secrets - A $30.00 certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://spasecrets.net/
Spa Secrets offers an amazing collection of luxurious bath and body, skincare, and aromatherapy products for your home spa needs.

Flying Needle Gallery - A $20.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://flyingneedlegallery.com/
Gifts for the Body & Home

Designing-Diva Boutique - A $25.00 gift certificate for their online store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.designing-diva.com/
Artisan handcrafted silver and fused glass jewelry and home decor adornments for mortal goddesses everywhere!

Lemming Central - 1 Sampler box. Valued at $20.00. US shipping only.
http://www.lemmingcentral.com/
Lemming Central is the place for E-tailers to promote their products, so the consumers can find them! You will find all sorts of great new bath & body products, candles, tarts and even tea! Feed your addiction!

Things That Make Scents - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.thingsthatmakescents.com/
Things That Make Scents is a Jersey Shore-based candle manufacturer offering superior customer service and a diverse menu of all-natural soy wax candles and scented wax bears. With many scents available, you are sure to find a favorite! Carrying candle accessories, gift baskets, jewelry and great gift items, its your one stop shop for your gift giving needs!

25 Things to Consider Before Saying "I Do"

2008-10-13T00:11:00.000-05:00

This blog was written by a friend of mine Kim, of Overall Beauty. She is a wonderful lady and has some words of wisdom for people contemplating marriage.

With the high cost of weddings today, and the even higher cost of divorce, sometimes not thinking marriage through all the way is the worst thing you can do. It can be heart breaking if the bride or groom gets cold feet and calls off the wedding, but is doing so such a bad thing? Everyone needs a ‘before you get married' list to make sure you are truly ready for the life of holy matrimony.

Questions to ask yourself:

1. Am I in love with the idea of marriage, or am I in love with the (wo)man? Am I just looking at the excitement of everything that it takes to put a wedding together, and not focusing on anything beyond the wedding day?
2. Am I having second thoughts before I even set the date, or even a month before the wedding?
3. Am I ready to be faithful and true to only one person for the rest of my life?
4. How honest am I with myself? What are my true feelings for my significant other?
5. If wedding plans are already in motion, am I just going along with them not for fear of hurting someone's feelings, or making them feel like they were used for their money, or as if their money was wasted, even though I want to call the whole thing off?
6. Am I emotionally, physically, and mentally prepared for all aspects of marriage?
7. Am I ready to say ‘I do' without any doubts that I am doing the right thing?
8. If need be, am I willing to pack up my whole life and move away from friends and family if asked?
9. Am I willing to leave my friends behind for my husband/wife or will my friends always come first?
10. Is my significant other accepted by my family? If not, why? Does it bother me if they don't? Am I marrying him/her just to anger my family?
11. Am I willing to wait longer than I already have to make sure that I am really ready to be married to this person, or do I just want to get it over with?
12. Have we had the important talks about children, and families? Do either of us have any debts, and who's responsibility do they become once we are married?
13. Do we have the same expectations of marriage?
14. Do I like the way my significant other is around children, will they make the kind of parent I want for our children?
15. Do you see yourself married to this person for 5, 10, 25, 50 years or more?
16. If I am pregnant, am I just getting married because you feel it is the best thing to do for the baby? Am I willing to wait until after the child is born to make sure that I am marrying out of love and not a sense of duty?
17. Have we talked with our religious leaders? Have we made any decisions as to what faith to practice and with which we will raise our children?
18. If we are not currently living together, am I willing to give up my home to move into his/hers, or to give up the space in my home for him/her to move in with me?
19. If I am a virgin, do I really understand what will happen on my wedding night? Am I ready to take that step with this man/woman?
20. Am I getting married just to keep my significant other in my life? Will they leave if I don't marry them whether I am ready to do so or not?
21. Do I see myself waking up next to him or her every morning? Does the thought put a smile on my face?
22. Do I trust my fiancé with my life, my heart, and my soul?
23. Do I look forward to life after my wedding with a smile on my face, or do I feel unsure and fearful?
24. Am I getting married because all of my friends are married and I feel left out?
25. Can I imagine my life without this person by my side helping me through it?

These are not cold unfeeling questions you must ask yourself; these are questions you need to ask yourself to make sure in your heart that s/he is the one. These questions will potentially save you and everyone involved a lot of pain and heartbreak. It may be difficult to be adult enough to stop the wedding before the date, but it will be a huge emotional disaster (and even more costly) to decide just days after the wedding that you made the biggest mistake of your life.

You really need to ask yourself if you are getting married for all the right reasons. Never allow yourself to be pushed into getting married if you are not emotionally ready to give all of yourself to that person. You can not just go along with marriage. Waiting months, days, or even years to get married is never as heartbreaking as realizing after the fact that you just blew it. If the person you love is not willing to wait, maybe they are not the right person for you.

Talk to your future spouse about your feelings. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, this could be a warning sign for problems ahead. An honest open relationship is the foundation of a happy marriage. If you do not feel you can talk to him/her about your doubts, if they tell you it's nothing to worry about, if they react badly, or do not respect your feelings, then you definitely should consider postponing or canceling your wedding.

Sit down and write out all of the reasons you love him/her, your hopes, your dreams, your fears, your doubts, and your dislikes. Listen to your heart and pray about it. Talk about it with a trusted friend or someone who is willing to help you see both sides of the question. Make sure you are able to talk freely with this person to see if marriage is really the way to go.

If you decide after answering all of these questions that you just have a case of cold feet and your life as you know it is not ending, go ahead and plan the wedding. Get yourself prepared for the biggest day of your life.

Copyright 2008 Kim Snyder, owner Overall Beauty Minerals Home of Magic Lash Eyelash Enhancer! Visit her today at Overall Beauty. Sign up today for a free beauty ebook and see the latest in mineral makeup and natural skincare and so much more.

Songs for Your Western Wedding

2008-10-12T01:30:00.001-05:00

We know that choosing the perfect song can be a daunting process. We are listing a few songs that we have come across that may be appropriate for your wedding. We have not catagorized the songs as many may be used in several ways. There are songs listed that may be used as processional, recessional, unity candle, bouquet toss, garter toss, cake cutting, introductions, wedding dinner songs, father-daughter, mother-son, first dance and last dance. Hope you find some songs that will add to your special day! If you have a song that we haven't listed, please feel free to post it.

Lost in This Moment – Big & Rich
Stealing Cinderella – Chuck wicks
Forever & Always – Shania Twain
The Keeper of the Stars – Tracy Byrd
You Had Me From Hello – Kenny Chesney
I Do (Cherish You) – Mark Wills
Bless the Broken Road – Rascal Flatts
When I Said I Do – Clint Black & Lisa Hartman
Amazed – Lonestar
I Cross My Heart – George Strait
I Love The Way You Love Me – John Michael Montgomery
I Melt – Rascal Flatts
I Swear – John Michael Montgomery
It’s Your Love – Tim McGraw & Faith Hill
Making Memories of Us – Keith Urban
She’s Everything – Brad Paisley
To Make You Feel My Love – Garth Brooks
Somebody Like You – Keith Urban
When You Say Nothing At All – Alison Krauss
My Baby Loves Me Just The Way That I Am – Martina McBride
Cowboy Take Me Away – Dixie Chicks
From Here to Eternity – Michael Peterson
Love of My Life – Sammy Kershaw
We Danced – Brad Paisley
When You Say Nothing At All – Keith Whitley
Your Everything – Keith Urban
Look At You Girl – Chris LeDoux
Shameless – Garth Brooks
She Don’t Tell Me To – Montgomery Gentry
How Do I Live – Trisha Yearwood
Love Will Always Win – Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood
I Do – Paul Brandt
Doin’ Something Right – Billy Currington
If Tomorrow Never Comes – Garth Brooks
When Love Finds You – Vince Gill
Because You Love Me – Jo Dee Messina
More Than You’ll Ever Know – Travis Tritt
Two People Fall in Love – Brad Paisley
Not a Moment to Soon – Tim McGraw
This Kiss – Faith Hill
Love of my Life – Sammy Kershaw
To Make You Feel My Love – Garth Brooks
The Dance – Garth Brooks
Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle
My Little Girl – Tim Mc Graw
My Wish – Rascal Flatts
In my Daughter’s Eyes – Martina McBride
Fathers & Daughters – LeRoy Parnell
Daddy’s Hands – Holly Dunn
I Loved Her First – Heartland
He Didn’t Have To Be – Brad Paisley
Holes in the Floor of Heaven – Steve Wariner
Single White Female – Chely Wright
This One’s For the Girls – Martina McBride
Firecracker - Josh Turner
Friends In Low Places – Garth Brooks
Through the Years – Kenny Rogers
Your Man – Josh Turner
I’ll Still Love You More – Trisha Yearwood
I Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere – Martina McBride
The Rest of Mine – Trace Adkins
Lucky Man – Emerson Drive
I Hope You Dance – Leann Womack
Love Is a Beautiful Thing – Phil Vassar
My Best Friend – Tim McGraw
To Make You Feel My Love – Garth Brooks
Your Love Amazes Me – John Berry
Look At You Girl – Chris LeDoux
Jesu, Joy of a Man’s Desiring – Josh Groban
Forever and Ever, Amen – Randy Travis
Me and You – Kenny Chesney
You Light Up My Life – Leann Rimes
I Feel Like A Woman – Shania Twain
And They Do – Trace Adkins
There You’ll Be – Faith Hill
When You Kiss Me – Shania Twain

The iEmporium Sizzle

2008-10-11T01:10:00.000-05:00

The iEmporium Sizzle magazine is full of articles on small businesses - articles relating to starting or running your business. The writers are sharing this valuable information out of the goodness of their hearts. They are members of the iEmporium community. Small businesses are featured along with their promotions and classifieds. You will find discount promo codes for many of the businesses that are advertising. You may possibly find “that item” that you have been searching for in one of these website stores. This month there are articles on keyword optimization, ergonomics, how to start participating at craft shows and much more. If you have time click on the magazine link at the right and check out this free virtual magazine that showcases small businesses.

I am honored to be featured as the Entrepreneur of the Month. Thank you iEmporium Sizzle for choosing me!

Invitation to iEmporium

2008-10-11T00:30:00.000-05:00

I would like to invite you to visit iEmporium.ning.com. This is a wonderful community created by Melissa. The people are friendly, helpful, supportive and willing to help a fellow entrepreneur. You may network, shop, visit or you may promote your own website and products within this community. If you are looking for a place to do anything of these things....you have found it!

The vast array of products avaibable is mind-boggling. There are some very talented, crafty members. Everyone has their own area of expertise. Everyone is willing to help, if you need it. I am a merchant but I have bought from several of the members. All of the experiences have been good. Very professional, but yet friendly...with great customer service.

Melissa works hard to continually upgrade the site and offer the latest technology. She has many ideas and has implemented a store and started a magazine. You will find virtual assistants, writers, artists, jewelers, travel agents, wedding accessories, crochet items, photography, scrapbookers, website builders, business coaching, bakers, and many, many others on this site. We are made of merchants and shoppers. There is something for everyone. This site is a wealth of information. If you would like to join - let me know and I'll be happy to send you an invitation.

50 Ways to Westernize Your Wedding

2008-10-01T00:57:00.000-05:00

1. Use regular size hay bales for seating.
2. Use regular size hay bales stacked as the backdrop for the ceremony.
3. Galvanized buckets of sunflowers sitting around or on tables.
4. Use sunflowers, wildflowers, wild violets, daisies or wild roses for your flowers.
5. Use white enamelware trays for food.
6. Create a table arrangement on an enamelware tray.
7. Use bandana print, denim blue material or faux leather to cover tables.
8. Mini hay bales, mini cowboy hats, hand coiled lariat ropes, cow bells, real or plastic horseshoes can be used on tables.
9. Make horseshoe, cowboy hat or cowboy boot shaped place cards.
10. Use a real or galvanized cowboy hat with an arrangement for table decorations.
11. May use Cowboy boots filled with wild flowers to sit around or on tables.
12. Coil ropes and hang in strategic places.
13. Rope can be used many ways in your decorations.
14. Cowboy hat bubbles are a fun favor for the kids.
15. Mini galvanized tub candles will add to the western spirit.
16. Use a galvanized flower girl bucket instead of the traditional flower girl basket.
17. The flower girl bucket could be used to hold beverages or arrangements on the tables.
18. Westernize your guest book and pen set.
19. Use boot-shaped glasses for your toast.
20. Use a western cake server set.
21. Cake topper tubs (made with the galvanized tubs) are used on the wedding cake or the groom’s cake.
22. Tie favors up in bandana print or burlap bags.
23. A money/dance bag constructed of a burlap bag with cowboy hats.
24. Western-shaped soap favors for the guests.
25. Black tea light lanterns hanging from trees, sitting on tables or on the ground lighting the aisle.
26. Use sunflower heads instead of rose petals.
27. Scatter sunflower heads on the tables.
28. Cowboy hat boutonnieres for the grooms and groomsmen.
29. Cowboy hat boutonnieres may be used as corsages for the people of honor in your wedding party.
30. Ice beverages down in large galvanized tubs.
31. If serving finger foods – use cookie cutters to cut out western-shaped sandwiches or western cookies.
32. Use galvanized buckets filled with trail mix or peanuts on the groom’s table.
33. Serve barbeque for the reception.
34. Decorate your bouquets and pew bows with mini cowboy hats or mini horseshoes.
35. A horseshoe shaped cake for the groom’s table.
36. Ask guests to dress casually in western wear.
37. Request country music from the DJ.
38. Fill mini cowboy hats with birdseed & tie in tulle.
39. Arrange for a horse/carriage instead of a limo for transportation to and from the venue.
40. Tie your birdseed in bandanas instead of tulle.
41. If the bride is a barrel racer, incorporate some barrels in your decorations.
42. Have a destination wedding in an old west town.
43. Use beans in a burlap bag with a western bean recipe for a favor.
44. Look for a barn or a beautiful pasture for your venue.
45. The father may lead a horse with the bride atop to the ceremony.
46. The bride and groom may opt to leave on the horse riding together into the sunset.
47. For favors consider using mini galvanized buckets filled with corn nuts, peanuts, beef jerky and slim jims.
48. Mini round galvanized tubs with wild flower arrangements to sit around on the tables.
49. Use wooden benches or wrought iron benches for seating.
50. Construct an arbor of old barnwood, cover in vines, flowers, vines & flowers, or accent with western items, such as rope or coiled ropes. Set hay bales on the sides with buckets of flowers.

Hi...Welcome....Thanks for stopping by!

2008-09-30T01:05:00.000-05:00

We are planning many things for our new weblog. Please bear with us for a bit. Glad you came by to visit. We will be adding new posts often. If you are in the wedding business or an independent business owner and would like to link to our weblog just ask. We will be happy to list you on our favorites. Come again soon!