Selecting the perfect ring has long proven a challenge for couples looking to take the next step in their relationships. While factors like price and style may influence your decision, you might also find it interesting to learn more about gemstones. The color of the rock in an engagement ring can signify many different ideas. If you want to have some more fun while picking a ring, take a look at these common stones and what their colors say about your love.
The Classic White Diamondring
To kick the list off, consider the classic white diamond. Once popular because of its rarity, this type of stone is actually now the most common gem found in engagement jewelry. This has led many couples to shy away from white diamonds and turn to more exciting and unique options. If you still think this is the perfect fit for you, then remember that diamonds are meant to signify strength. Just as diamond is one of the most durable materials found on the planet, so will your relationship withstand whatever is thrown at it.
The Alternative Diamond Shades
Since white diamonds are seen as too traditional by many modern couples, colored diamonds have taken off in popularity. Those with a golden hue, which are sometimes referred to as champagne diamonds, are said to represent the effervescent, joyous side of relationships. Pink options are also a nice choice, the soft color symbolizing romance and imagination. Finally, yellow diamonds are a stone connected with excitement. Choosing a gem in this shade means your years will be filled with wonderful surprises. These are just a few colors available, with each representing a unique facet of your love story.
The Shades of Bluering
If you want to forego the standard diamond option, there are troves of other stones worth your time. Those who have a preference for blue may want to think about aquamarine. The color of this stone captures the cool tone of ocean waters and represents the fluidity of love as it changes over time. Blue sapphires are also a great choice, their bold appearance being the prime option for celebrities and royalty alike. Though a bit more of a deep purple than blue, tanzanite is an appealing option that represents the magic of your love.
The Red Hot
In contrast to the cool-blue tones, stones in red offer a chance to really make a statement. Rubies are a perfect pick for those looking to capture the passion of a relationship. Along the same lines is the almandine garnet. While this gem also represents passion, the deep-red hue of the stone symbolizes the serenity that can be found in a long-term partnership. Though more pink than red, morganite is a great pick for a couple looking to capture the whimsical aspect of love.
The Rest of the Rainbow
Gemstones come in every shade you can imagine, meaning that it can be difficult to cover all the options available to you in one list. Some popular choices to consider include emerald, the deep green said to symbolize good fortune and wealth. The sparkling orange of citrine can also offer a fetching look, the color representing the shining and nourishing light that marriage can bring. If you want to capture all of the colors of the rainbow in a single stone, the iridescent opal is a perfect fit that represents the couple’s desire and beauty.
From the durability of classic white diamond to the unique shimmer of opal, there are countless colors to consider when it comes to your engagement ring. While not the most important factor to consider, selecting your gemstone based around color can add a touch of personal significance. Explore your options and proudly wear a ring that is undeniably you.
When you’re planning your wedding, you’re likely not giving the honeymoon much thought. A little research can point you toward the best destination.
Getting married is an exciting and unpredictable ride. While marriage itself is said to be a wonderful journey, it pales in comparison to the freedom and relaxation offered by the honeymoon. When you’re dedicating most of your free time to planning for your nuptials, you may not be giving the idea of your honeymoon destination the energy required to make it perfect. There are a ton of considerations, from flight prices to booking activities during the trip. Luckily, there are some simple ways to assemble a fantastic post-wedding vacation. The first step? Selecting the destination.
To help you select the right place for your honeymoon, take a look at some of these inexpensive options other couples are raving about. A little research will help point you in the right direction for your excursion.
Relaxation Is a Beach Away
Some destinations are commonplace when it comes to vacationing. You’re likely to hear all about couples who decided to rush off to the Bahamas for some beach fun or to the Mediterranean for a cruise around ancient harbors. While these can be amazing trips, you also might want something a bit more unique and a lot less expensive. The more popular the destination, the higher the costs associated with the trip. Instead of rushing into the crowds, you may want to take a less-popular path for your destination.
The city of Cartagena in Colombia may be the right speed for you. A coastal city of the Caribbean, there is an antiquated charm that can be found along the cobblestone streets and endless restaurant options. Though the idyllic scenery and friendly residents tend to attract vacationers each year, the crowds are far smaller than those you would discover in places like Paris, New York, or Milan. Cartagena offers gorgeous beaches, endless activities, and an array of authentic Colombian restaurants that will make your mouth water the moment you step foot in the city.
The European Destination
Europe is an incredibly popular continent for couples looking to explore while on their honeymoons. Still, as mentioned already, a number of these destinations will be crowded with other couples, tourists, and locals. However, Europe is a gigantic place, and you don’t need to follow the tried-and-true path to have a honeymoon that enriches your life. Forget all about London, Barcelona, and Venice, cities that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Instead, you may want to set your sights on the crystal-clear waters and unmistakable charm of Croatia.
While less crowded than some spots, Croatia is a country that sees a ton of tourism each year. To avoid the masses, you may want to aim for a destination that is a bit less popular. Rovinj, for example, is a city that seems like it was plucked right out of time. The city itself has a rustic quality, with the architecture invoking a world that was lost long ago. Plus, the views of the Mediterranean help to make Rovinj a city that exudes romance. This is only one Croatian city worth considering, so take time to do your homework.
Slightly Removed From the Crowds
Finally, don’t feel like you have to avoid popular locations should you really want to travel there. You can easily make a trip to a place like Florida work if you forego the popular spots and find a location that offers you a mix of seclusion and excitement. The same is true of Mexico or anywhere else you might want to explore. Popular doesn’t mean bad, it just means you’re in for a higher price tag and more crowded streets.
Finding the perfect destination for your honeymoon is all about considering your options. Take a look at what’s out there and see what destination is most appealing to you, your partner, and your budget.
Planning a wedding can be a big financial endeavor. Here are a few ways to start thinking about money to help you plan for the big day.
Planning a wedding can be a very expensive endeavor. Whether you’re aiming for a larger affair or an intimate gathering, you need to have enough money in your budget to cover all associated expenses. It may seem daunting, but there are simple ways to see success. Giving yourself time to sit down with your significant other and create a financial plan can do wonders for the process. There are also a handful of simple ways you can adjust your lifestyle in order to save money for your big day.
Look over these financial suggestions on how to start saving money right now for your wedding. A little research and preparation will go a long way in your attempts to improve your budget.
Assess Your Debt
Most people in the current day and age are living with debt. Whether you’ve taken out loans to cover school or you have a few credit cards you need to pay off, being in debt can inhibit your ability to get ahead with your finances. As you discuss your budget with your partner, work on creating a plan of action for paying down your debt. While making minimum payments might seem sensible for managing your financial health, there are more advantages to getting rid of as much debt as possible.
By lowering the balances on your credit cards, you are freeing up money that can be applied to your wedding. Credit is a great way to take care of expenses like florists or caterers, but you can’t use this option if your cards are all at their max. Paying down your debt can also help improve your credit score. This will help immensely later on if you and your new spouse consider buying a home together.
Get a Concrete Figure
Saving money is a lot easier when you have a concrete goal to work toward. In order to see success from your efforts, you may want to start researching how much it is going to cost you to host the wedding you envision. Call vendors and venues and get a feel for pricing. Learn about the fees associated with obtaining a marriage license and any other costs that you might be responsible for. Put everything together and see what your entire wedding is going to cost.
The number might be high at first, but don’t let this get to you. Now that you have a number, you can start crafting a real financial plan to pay for it all. To create a realistic budget, you might realize that you need to eliminate certain ideas or select less expensive vendors than you had originally planned. You won’t be able to make these adjustments until you have a concrete number to work with. Get started on this as soon as possible, and you’ll have an easier time managing your finances.
Financial Help
Finally, think about any relatives who may be willing to provide financial assistance. Parents and grandparents will often contribute to or cover the costs of specific services. If someone in your life has offered to help, contact them and get an idea of what they can pay for. While you should not expect the assistance, taking someone up on the offer can be a fantastic way for you to get more out of your budget.
Paying for a wedding might be a financial headache, but there are a number of different ways to make it work. Saving money for your big day is all about giving yourself time to assess your finances and craft a plan of action based off what you can afford. Find a plan that works for you and your partner, and get started on saving for your future.
How can you make planning your wedding easier? Consider these neglected details and see what you need to do to put the finishing touch on your big day.
A lot of work is involved with planning a wedding. No matter how meticulous you might be, it is entirely within the realm of possibility that you missed a thing or two along the way. Since the process can often be stressful, plenty of couples overlook important details. Fortunately, it is never too late to go back and think about a few things you might have overlooked. Consider these oft-neglected points and see what you need to do to put the finishing touch on your plans.
Gifts of Love
It stands to reason that a lot of people have been involved with putting together your wedding. With so much going on, it can be a huge comfort to be able to turn to friends and family members for some assistance. However, you want to remember to show your thanks in whatever way you can. Couples often forget to give appreciation to the people who help them prepare for their nuptials, but you can easily avoid this blunder by remaining mindful throughout the process.
There are several key people to consider getting gifts for. The members of your wedding party should definitely receive some token of appreciation for all of their contributions. In addition, it can be a wise idea to buy a gift for the parents of your significant other. When you marry your partner, you are also marrying your partner’s family. Buying little gifts to show thanks can put you in the good graces of the family while also making you feel proud of the fact that you went the extra mile for your loved ones.
Last-Minute Savior
No matter how much work you put into planning your wedding, there are always dangers lurking around every corner. You never can tell when something as simple as a loose fiber on a bridesmaid’s dress can turn into a total costume malfunction in front of all your guests. Though you might not be able to control every aspect of what occurs on your wedding day, you definitely can take precautionary measures that aim to reduce the odds of a disaster. One way of achieving this is by packing an emergency kit for your big day.
While similar to the idea of a first-aid kit, an emergency kit for your wedding is all about the tools and resources you might need to fix a small mishap. You’ll want to include sewing basics like a needle, thread, and some generic buttons. These tools can help in the event of a rip or tear throughout the night. You might also want to include aspirin, bottles of water, extra makeup, a pair of socks, and whatever else might prove useful as you move through the events of your wedding.
Little Details
While it might be rare, there are instances where couples have extra money in the budget after completing all their planning tasks. A great way to use some of the funds is by adding special details to your wedding that help to bring out your own unique style. Perhaps you’d like a more elaborate cake, or perhaps you’d like to extend the wedding reception by an hour or two. You can be as frivolous or as practical as you’d like with spending this money; just try and find a clever way to put this part of your budget to good use.
A wedding that goes off without a hitch can seem like an impossibility. Still, by examining your big day from a number of different angles and making sure you are prepared for as many possibilities as you can think of, you will likely have an easier time reducing the odds of a disaster.
If you’re a wedding guest attempting sobriety, it’s natural to feel a little anxiety. Some smart advice can help you remain a faithful teetotaler.
Wedding receptions often offer the perfect trifecta of food, fun, and drinks. Yet, this can present significant challenges for guests recovering from alcohol dependency. Fortunately, sitting out these celebrations isn’t the only option. Since sobriety is an important goal, how can this be achieved when the booze is flowing and emotions are high? Some smart advice can help you remain a dedicated teetotaler.
Guests in Recovery: You’re Not Alone
If you’re a wedding guest aiming for sobriety, it’s natural to feel a little anxiety. After all, you’re in a social situation where alcohol is plentiful and you’re surrounded by others who drink. Ravishly contributor Britni de la Cretaz describes feelings of loneliness when attending receptions. Medium writer Tiffany Swedeen mentions her own temptations to imbibe. SobrieTea Party’s Tawny Lara admits her own struggles. Before she tried recovery, she usually found herself drinking too much at others’ nuptials.
Powerful physical and psychological cravings are frequently triggered by emotional stress, fatigue, nostalgia, or feeling left out. Unsurprisingly, all these emotions and conditions can resurface at weddings. You may encounter some saboteurs, as blogger Dana Bowman points out. However, most of your fellow attendees don’t wish to interfere with your recovery.
Stay Alcohol-Free With These Tips
Swedeen, de la Cretaz, and Lara draw on their own experiences, offering advice to wedding guests planning on sobriety. One valuable tip is to stop worrying about how others view you. Most people will not notice or concern themselves with what you’re actually drinking, so having a non-alcoholic beverage in hand can be a lifesaver. This can be anything that makes you feel comfortable: lime and seltzer water, a soft drink, a cup of coffee, or anything else you like.
Enlisting a trustworthy individual or two could help you avoid indulgence. Be sure to give bartenders a heads up, letting them know not to serve you intoxicating drinks. You may wish to bring along a sober friend, seek out another teetotaler at the festivities, or have someone you can call or text if you need support or feel unsafe.
Distracting yourself is also a great approach when you’re at a reception. Take advantage of food, dancing, music, camaraderie, and activities. Are you a champ at horseshoes, darts, or croquet? Use the lawn games to show off your prowess. Hit the dance floor. Eat an extra cupcake. Talk someone else’s ear off. You get the idea.
Refrain From Judging Other Guests
One common pitfall that Lara mentions is the habit of silently judging others. As an individual in recovery, you could find yourself eying other guests’ behaviors. Looking down on them for their drinking and intoxication won’t contribute to your own efforts. Lara reminds readers that everyone’s relationship with alcohol is a little different. Respect is key, so remember that others’ drinking habits have nothing to do with your own sobriety.
Know When To Walk Away
While you’re planning ahead for your friends’ reception, don’t forget to construct an exit strategy. Feel free to leave early if you must, especially if you feel too tempted to drink. If you’re bringing a sober companion, let that person know that you may want to depart before the reception ends. Those attending alone should make sure they have phone numbers of reliable friends or a transport company just in case.
Don’t Worry: You’ve Got This
Recovering from alcohol dependency isn’t an easy process, but social situations can make it rougher than usual. While you want to enjoy yourself at your friends’ wedding reception, it can also be an opportunity to re-acclimate to scenarios in which alcohol is served. Staying sober requires some advance planning. Keeping a nonalcoholic drink in hand is a useful strategy, along with relying on supportive friends and having an exit plan ready.
Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a personal choice. Having a plan in place to keep them engaged can make a world of difference.
Children can be wonderful to have around. There’s something invigorating about the boundless energy and genuine laughter of little ones. Of course, kids can also be a huge headache, as most parents can attest to. While it is commonplace for couples to exclude kids from their wedding guest lists, there are plenty of scenarios where children are invited. If you are planning for your wedding and are curious about how to keep kids under control during the event, now is a perfect time to start exploring some ideas for crowd control.
When the day of your wedding arrives, you don’t want to be distracted by children who are bored and restless. Consider these ideas, and find the right balance for your big day.
Simple Entertainment
In a perfect world, children would attend a wedding and understand they are supposed to behave in a specific manner. Of course, this is far from reality. In truth, kids will become distracted quite easily by all of the rituals and slow-paced traditions that pepper most ceremonies. Without taking the proper precautions, it won’t take long for the little ones to start finding their own entertainment. Usually, this means the kids will begin running around, causing disruptions, and acting in the typical ways that most children do when left to their own devices.
Thankfully, you don’t need to do much to keep children entertained at your wedding. One great idea that tends to work wonders is providing a place for kids to sit down and color. Offer coloring books, blank pieces of paper, and plenty of crayons, and you won’t need to worry about boredom taking over the kids anytime soon. You may also want to think about providing a board game or two, as well as simple snacks that will keep all the little ones happily seated together without feeling the need to run off looking for trouble.
Snack and Snooze
Pacing the meals appropriately is also a good idea to think about when children will be in attendance at your wedding. Adults and children eat at remarkably different paces. While the average grownup won’t have a problem with waiting between courses, a child usually will want to leave the table when he or she is done with whatever has been provided already. Try and arrange with the vendors to have meals delivered to children first, so that the adults can eat at a leisurely pace without worrying about the kids the entire time.
It can also be a good idea to make arrangements for a place where some of the little ones can take a nap. Depending on the ages you’re working with, it is pretty common for a child to need to rest after indulging in a big meal or dancing for several hours with the adults. Having a separate room where children can go to sleep for a bit under the watchful eyes of the adults can be a great way to keep the peace and prevent any cranky tantrums caused by tired kids.
Professional Help
Hiring a professional sitter might also be a great move for your wedding. Having a trained expert nearby to watch the kids throughout the night allows the adults the freedom to enjoy the wedding without being constantly distracted. This is definitely a good idea when you know there will be a number of children present. Keep the peace and allow everyone the chance to have a good time on your big day by taking this precaution.
Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a personal choice; however, should you choose to include youngsters, have a plan in place to keep them engaged. Provide child-friendly entertainment, offer foods and beverages kids will enjoy, and consider hiring a professional sitter to give the parents a break.
When planning your honeymoon, it may be more financially sound to stay around your home.
Getting married can be an expensive endeavor. Even a small reception might wind up costing you way more than you anticipated. It might be useful for you to consider ways to cut back on your expenses. The costs don’t stop coming once the wedding has ended. Your honeymoon is also a financial hit. Instead of rushing off to some far-flung corner of the globe for your romantic getaway, it might be more exciting to take a look at what Canada has to offer.
There are some absolutely lovely destinations located across Canada for you and your spouse to explore. No matter what you enjoy doing on your vacations, you can be sure you’ll find something worth your time when you begin your search. To get you started, here are a few wonderful spots to consider for your honeymoon.
By the Bay
Many couples determine their honeymoon destinations based on what they are hoping to get from the trip. For some, the dream honeymoon is one that provides ample time to unwind. You and your new spouse want to spend time alone together. This means you could gain a lot from a trip to Ontario to relax at Georgian Bay. If you enjoy the thought of sitting in a lodge, watching the sunlight sparkle over the lazy waters of the bay, then this might be for you.
Immersing yourself in the splendor of nature has a way of revitalizing the spirits. There are tons of exciting activities to take part in during this trip as well. When you’re done with relaxation for a bit, take a boat out on the water and explore some of the islands located throughout the bay. Adventure awaits you when you decide to visit this amazing destination right in Ontario.
Something Different for Your Honeymoon
Those born and raised in Canada are usually well aware of the beauty of the land. This is one of the reasons some couples don’t consider sticking close to home for the honeymoon. If you’ve already been on endless hikes through the woods and seen many of the sights the country has to offer, you may want to think about something a bit different. A trip to Yukon can allow you a totally new experience with a visit to Kluane.
Kluane National Park has a diverse and appealing geography that offers couples a wealth of different activities to explore. You and your partner can hit the trails and see Canada from an entirely new perspective by hiking through a truly remarkable environment. Thrillseekers will have the opportunity to kayak in a rushing river, scale some wild heights and engage with the natural world in a spectacular manner.
City Life
Where you visit in Canada for your honeymoon will have a lot to do with where you currently live. One might find the idea of a trip to Quebec City to be quite appealing. The hustle and bustle of the city might not be the right place for everyone to live but there is a ton of fun to be had during a vacation. You and your partner will be able to take in all of the sights of the city during the day and indulge in some amazing nightlife activities after sunset.
There are many wonderful destinations to explore right in your own backyard. Instead of traveling across the planet for your honeymoon, think about the fun that can be had here in Canada. Explore all of your options and you’re bound to discover an amazing trip.
Selecting the perfect ring has long proven a challenge for couples looking to take the next step in their relationships. While factors like price and style may influence your decision, you might also find it interesting to learn more about gemstones. The color of the rock in an engagement ring can signify many different ideas. If you want to have some more fun while picking a ring, take a look at these common stones and what their colors say about your love.
The Classic White Diamondring
To kick the list off, consider the classic white diamond. Once popular because of its rarity, this type of stone is actually now the most common gem found in engagement jewelry. This has led many couples to shy away from white diamonds and turn to more exciting and unique options. If you still think this is the perfect fit for you, then remember that diamonds are meant to signify strength. Just as diamond is one of the most durable materials found on the planet, so will your relationship withstand whatever is thrown at it.
The Alternative Diamond Shades
Since white diamonds are seen as too traditional by many modern couples, colored diamonds have taken off in popularity. Those with a golden hue, which are sometimes referred to as champagne diamonds, are said to represent the effervescent, joyous side of relationships. Pink options are also a nice choice, the soft color symbolizing romance and imagination. Finally, yellow diamonds are a stone connected with excitement. Choosing a gem in this shade means your years will be filled with wonderful surprises. These are just a few colors available, with each representing a unique facet of your love story.
The Shades of Bluering
If you want to forego the standard diamond option, there are troves of other stones worth your time. Those who have a preference for blue may want to think about aquamarine. The color of this stone captures the cool tone of ocean waters and represents the fluidity of love as it changes over time. Blue sapphires are also a great choice, their bold appearance being the prime option for celebrities and royalty alike. Though a bit more of a deep purple than blue, tanzanite is an appealing option that represents the magic of your love.
The Red Hot
In contrast to the cool-blue tones, stones in red offer a chance to really make a statement. Rubies are a perfect pick for those looking to capture the passion of a relationship. Along the same lines is the almandine garnet. While this gem also represents passion, the deep-red hue of the stone symbolizes the serenity that can be found in a long-term partnership. Though more pink than red, morganite is a great pick for a couple looking to capture the whimsical aspect of love.
The Rest of the Rainbow
Gemstones come in every shade you can imagine, meaning that it can be difficult to cover all the options available to you in one list. Some popular choices to consider include emerald, the deep green said to symbolize good fortune and wealth. The sparkling orange of citrine can also offer a fetching look, the color representing the shining and nourishing light that marriage can bring. If you want to capture all of the colors of the rainbow in a single stone, the iridescent opal is a perfect fit that represents the couple’s desire and beauty.
From the durability of classic white diamond to the unique shimmer of opal, there are countless colors to consider when it comes to your engagement ring. While not the most important factor to consider, selecting your gemstone based around color can add a touch of personal significance. Explore your options and proudly wear a ring that is undeniably you.
When you’re planning your wedding, you’re likely not giving the honeymoon much thought. A little research can point you toward the best destination.
Getting married is an exciting and unpredictable ride. While marriage itself is said to be a wonderful journey, it pales in comparison to the freedom and relaxation offered by the honeymoon. When you’re dedicating most of your free time to planning for your nuptials, you may not be giving the idea of your honeymoon destination the energy required to make it perfect. There are a ton of considerations, from flight prices to booking activities during the trip. Luckily, there are some simple ways to assemble a fantastic post-wedding vacation. The first step? Selecting the destination.
To help you select the right place for your honeymoon, take a look at some of these inexpensive options other couples are raving about. A little research will help point you in the right direction for your excursion.
Relaxation Is a Beach Away
Some destinations are commonplace when it comes to vacationing. You’re likely to hear all about couples who decided to rush off to the Bahamas for some beach fun or to the Mediterranean for a cruise around ancient harbors. While these can be amazing trips, you also might want something a bit more unique and a lot less expensive. The more popular the destination, the higher the costs associated with the trip. Instead of rushing into the crowds, you may want to take a less-popular path for your destination.
The city of Cartagena in Colombia may be the right speed for you. A coastal city of the Caribbean, there is an antiquated charm that can be found along the cobblestone streets and endless restaurant options. Though the idyllic scenery and friendly residents tend to attract vacationers each year, the crowds are far smaller than those you would discover in places like Paris, New York, or Milan. Cartagena offers gorgeous beaches, endless activities, and an array of authentic Colombian restaurants that will make your mouth water the moment you step foot in the city.
The European Destination
Europe is an incredibly popular continent for couples looking to explore while on their honeymoons. Still, as mentioned already, a number of these destinations will be crowded with other couples, tourists, and locals. However, Europe is a gigantic place, and you don’t need to follow the tried-and-true path to have a honeymoon that enriches your life. Forget all about London, Barcelona, and Venice, cities that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Instead, you may want to set your sights on the crystal-clear waters and unmistakable charm of Croatia.
While less crowded than some spots, Croatia is a country that sees a ton of tourism each year. To avoid the masses, you may want to aim for a destination that is a bit less popular. Rovinj, for example, is a city that seems like it was plucked right out of time. The city itself has a rustic quality, with the architecture invoking a world that was lost long ago. Plus, the views of the Mediterranean help to make Rovinj a city that exudes romance. This is only one Croatian city worth considering, so take time to do your homework.
Slightly Removed From the Crowds
Finally, don’t feel like you have to avoid popular locations should you really want to travel there. You can easily make a trip to a place like Florida work if you forego the popular spots and find a location that offers you a mix of seclusion and excitement. The same is true of Mexico or anywhere else you might want to explore. Popular doesn’t mean bad, it just means you’re in for a higher price tag and more crowded streets.
Finding the perfect destination for your honeymoon is all about considering your options. Take a look at what’s out there and see what destination is most appealing to you, your partner, and your budget.
Planning a wedding can be a big financial endeavor. Here are a few ways to start thinking about money to help you plan for the big day.
Planning a wedding can be a very expensive endeavor. Whether you’re aiming for a larger affair or an intimate gathering, you need to have enough money in your budget to cover all associated expenses. It may seem daunting, but there are simple ways to see success. Giving yourself time to sit down with your significant other and create a financial plan can do wonders for the process. There are also a handful of simple ways you can adjust your lifestyle in order to save money for your big day.
Look over these financial suggestions on how to start saving money right now for your wedding. A little research and preparation will go a long way in your attempts to improve your budget.
Assess Your Debt
Most people in the current day and age are living with debt. Whether you’ve taken out loans to cover school or you have a few credit cards you need to pay off, being in debt can inhibit your ability to get ahead with your finances. As you discuss your budget with your partner, work on creating a plan of action for paying down your debt. While making minimum payments might seem sensible for managing your financial health, there are more advantages to getting rid of as much debt as possible.
By lowering the balances on your credit cards, you are freeing up money that can be applied to your wedding. Credit is a great way to take care of expenses like florists or caterers, but you can’t use this option if your cards are all at their max. Paying down your debt can also help improve your credit score. This will help immensely later on if you and your new spouse consider buying a home together.
Get a Concrete Figure
Saving money is a lot easier when you have a concrete goal to work toward. In order to see success from your efforts, you may want to start researching how much it is going to cost you to host the wedding you envision. Call vendors and venues and get a feel for pricing. Learn about the fees associated with obtaining a marriage license and any other costs that you might be responsible for. Put everything together and see what your entire wedding is going to cost.
The number might be high at first, but don’t let this get to you. Now that you have a number, you can start crafting a real financial plan to pay for it all. To create a realistic budget, you might realize that you need to eliminate certain ideas or select less expensive vendors than you had originally planned. You won’t be able to make these adjustments until you have a concrete number to work with. Get started on this as soon as possible, and you’ll have an easier time managing your finances.
Financial Help
Finally, think about any relatives who may be willing to provide financial assistance. Parents and grandparents will often contribute to or cover the costs of specific services. If someone in your life has offered to help, contact them and get an idea of what they can pay for. While you should not expect the assistance, taking someone up on the offer can be a fantastic way for you to get more out of your budget.
Paying for a wedding might be a financial headache, but there are a number of different ways to make it work. Saving money for your big day is all about giving yourself time to assess your finances and craft a plan of action based off what you can afford. Find a plan that works for you and your partner, and get started on saving for your future.
How can you make planning your wedding easier? Consider these neglected details and see what you need to do to put the finishing touch on your big day.
A lot of work is involved with planning a wedding. No matter how meticulous you might be, it is entirely within the realm of possibility that you missed a thing or two along the way. Since the process can often be stressful, plenty of couples overlook important details. Fortunately, it is never too late to go back and think about a few things you might have overlooked. Consider these oft-neglected points and see what you need to do to put the finishing touch on your plans.
Gifts of Love
It stands to reason that a lot of people have been involved with putting together your wedding. With so much going on, it can be a huge comfort to be able to turn to friends and family members for some assistance. However, you want to remember to show your thanks in whatever way you can. Couples often forget to give appreciation to the people who help them prepare for their nuptials, but you can easily avoid this blunder by remaining mindful throughout the process.
There are several key people to consider getting gifts for. The members of your wedding party should definitely receive some token of appreciation for all of their contributions. In addition, it can be a wise idea to buy a gift for the parents of your significant other. When you marry your partner, you are also marrying your partner’s family. Buying little gifts to show thanks can put you in the good graces of the family while also making you feel proud of the fact that you went the extra mile for your loved ones.
Last-Minute Savior
No matter how much work you put into planning your wedding, there are always dangers lurking around every corner. You never can tell when something as simple as a loose fiber on a bridesmaid’s dress can turn into a total costume malfunction in front of all your guests. Though you might not be able to control every aspect of what occurs on your wedding day, you definitely can take precautionary measures that aim to reduce the odds of a disaster. One way of achieving this is by packing an emergency kit for your big day.
While similar to the idea of a first-aid kit, an emergency kit for your wedding is all about the tools and resources you might need to fix a small mishap. You’ll want to include sewing basics like a needle, thread, and some generic buttons. These tools can help in the event of a rip or tear throughout the night. You might also want to include aspirin, bottles of water, extra makeup, a pair of socks, and whatever else might prove useful as you move through the events of your wedding.
Little Details
While it might be rare, there are instances where couples have extra money in the budget after completing all their planning tasks. A great way to use some of the funds is by adding special details to your wedding that help to bring out your own unique style. Perhaps you’d like a more elaborate cake, or perhaps you’d like to extend the wedding reception by an hour or two. You can be as frivolous or as practical as you’d like with spending this money; just try and find a clever way to put this part of your budget to good use.
A wedding that goes off without a hitch can seem like an impossibility. Still, by examining your big day from a number of different angles and making sure you are prepared for as many possibilities as you can think of, you will likely have an easier time reducing the odds of a disaster.
If you’re a wedding guest attempting sobriety, it’s natural to feel a little anxiety. Some smart advice can help you remain a faithful teetotaler.
Wedding receptions often offer the perfect trifecta of food, fun, and drinks. Yet, this can present significant challenges for guests recovering from alcohol dependency. Fortunately, sitting out these celebrations isn’t the only option. Since sobriety is an important goal, how can this be achieved when the booze is flowing and emotions are high? Some smart advice can help you remain a dedicated teetotaler.
Guests in Recovery: You’re Not Alone
If you’re a wedding guest aiming for sobriety, it’s natural to feel a little anxiety. After all, you’re in a social situation where alcohol is plentiful and you’re surrounded by others who drink. Ravishly contributor Britni de la Cretaz describes feelings of loneliness when attending receptions. Medium writer Tiffany Swedeen mentions her own temptations to imbibe. SobrieTea Party’s Tawny Lara admits her own struggles. Before she tried recovery, she usually found herself drinking too much at others’ nuptials.
Powerful physical and psychological cravings are frequently triggered by emotional stress, fatigue, nostalgia, or feeling left out. Unsurprisingly, all these emotions and conditions can resurface at weddings. You may encounter some saboteurs, as blogger Dana Bowman points out. However, most of your fellow attendees don’t wish to interfere with your recovery.
Stay Alcohol-Free With These Tips
Swedeen, de la Cretaz, and Lara draw on their own experiences, offering advice to wedding guests planning on sobriety. One valuable tip is to stop worrying about how others view you. Most people will not notice or concern themselves with what you’re actually drinking, so having a non-alcoholic beverage in hand can be a lifesaver. This can be anything that makes you feel comfortable: lime and seltzer water, a soft drink, a cup of coffee, or anything else you like.
Enlisting a trustworthy individual or two could help you avoid indulgence. Be sure to give bartenders a heads up, letting them know not to serve you intoxicating drinks. You may wish to bring along a sober friend, seek out another teetotaler at the festivities, or have someone you can call or text if you need support or feel unsafe.
Distracting yourself is also a great approach when you’re at a reception. Take advantage of food, dancing, music, camaraderie, and activities. Are you a champ at horseshoes, darts, or croquet? Use the lawn games to show off your prowess. Hit the dance floor. Eat an extra cupcake. Talk someone else’s ear off. You get the idea.
Refrain From Judging Other Guests
One common pitfall that Lara mentions is the habit of silently judging others. As an individual in recovery, you could find yourself eying other guests’ behaviors. Looking down on them for their drinking and intoxication won’t contribute to your own efforts. Lara reminds readers that everyone’s relationship with alcohol is a little different. Respect is key, so remember that others’ drinking habits have nothing to do with your own sobriety.
Know When To Walk Away
While you’re planning ahead for your friends’ reception, don’t forget to construct an exit strategy. Feel free to leave early if you must, especially if you feel too tempted to drink. If you’re bringing a sober companion, let that person know that you may want to depart before the reception ends. Those attending alone should make sure they have phone numbers of reliable friends or a transport company just in case.
Don’t Worry: You’ve Got This
Recovering from alcohol dependency isn’t an easy process, but social situations can make it rougher than usual. While you want to enjoy yourself at your friends’ wedding reception, it can also be an opportunity to re-acclimate to scenarios in which alcohol is served. Staying sober requires some advance planning. Keeping a nonalcoholic drink in hand is a useful strategy, along with relying on supportive friends and having an exit plan ready.
Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a personal choice. Having a plan in place to keep them engaged can make a world of difference.
Children can be wonderful to have around. There’s something invigorating about the boundless energy and genuine laughter of little ones. Of course, kids can also be a huge headache, as most parents can attest to. While it is commonplace for couples to exclude kids from their wedding guest lists, there are plenty of scenarios where children are invited. If you are planning for your wedding and are curious about how to keep kids under control during the event, now is a perfect time to start exploring some ideas for crowd control.
When the day of your wedding arrives, you don’t want to be distracted by children who are bored and restless. Consider these ideas, and find the right balance for your big day.
Simple Entertainment
In a perfect world, children would attend a wedding and understand they are supposed to behave in a specific manner. Of course, this is far from reality. In truth, kids will become distracted quite easily by all of the rituals and slow-paced traditions that pepper most ceremonies. Without taking the proper precautions, it won’t take long for the little ones to start finding their own entertainment. Usually, this means the kids will begin running around, causing disruptions, and acting in the typical ways that most children do when left to their own devices.
Thankfully, you don’t need to do much to keep children entertained at your wedding. One great idea that tends to work wonders is providing a place for kids to sit down and color. Offer coloring books, blank pieces of paper, and plenty of crayons, and you won’t need to worry about boredom taking over the kids anytime soon. You may also want to think about providing a board game or two, as well as simple snacks that will keep all the little ones happily seated together without feeling the need to run off looking for trouble.
Snack and Snooze
Pacing the meals appropriately is also a good idea to think about when children will be in attendance at your wedding. Adults and children eat at remarkably different paces. While the average grownup won’t have a problem with waiting between courses, a child usually will want to leave the table when he or she is done with whatever has been provided already. Try and arrange with the vendors to have meals delivered to children first, so that the adults can eat at a leisurely pace without worrying about the kids the entire time.
It can also be a good idea to make arrangements for a place where some of the little ones can take a nap. Depending on the ages you’re working with, it is pretty common for a child to need to rest after indulging in a big meal or dancing for several hours with the adults. Having a separate room where children can go to sleep for a bit under the watchful eyes of the adults can be a great way to keep the peace and prevent any cranky tantrums caused by tired kids.
Professional Help
Hiring a professional sitter might also be a great move for your wedding. Having a trained expert nearby to watch the kids throughout the night allows the adults the freedom to enjoy the wedding without being constantly distracted. This is definitely a good idea when you know there will be a number of children present. Keep the peace and allow everyone the chance to have a good time on your big day by taking this precaution.
Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a personal choice; however, should you choose to include youngsters, have a plan in place to keep them engaged. Provide child-friendly entertainment, offer foods and beverages kids will enjoy, and consider hiring a professional sitter to give the parents a break.
When planning your honeymoon, it may be more financially sound to stay around your home.
Getting married can be an expensive endeavor. Even a small reception might wind up costing you way more than you anticipated. It might be useful for you to consider ways to cut back on your expenses. The costs don’t stop coming once the wedding has ended. Your honeymoon is also a financial hit. Instead of rushing off to some far-flung corner of the globe for your romantic getaway, it might be more exciting to take a look at what Canada has to offer.
There are some absolutely lovely destinations located across Canada for you and your spouse to explore. No matter what you enjoy doing on your vacations, you can be sure you’ll find something worth your time when you begin your search. To get you started, here are a few wonderful spots to consider for your honeymoon.
By the Bay
Many couples determine their honeymoon destinations based on what they are hoping to get from the trip. For some, the dream honeymoon is one that provides ample time to unwind. You and your new spouse want to spend time alone together. This means you could gain a lot from a trip to Ontario to relax at Georgian Bay. If you enjoy the thought of sitting in a lodge, watching the sunlight sparkle over the lazy waters of the bay, then this might be for you.
Immersing yourself in the splendor of nature has a way of revitalizing the spirits. There are tons of exciting activities to take part in during this trip as well. When you’re done with relaxation for a bit, take a boat out on the water and explore some of the islands located throughout the bay. Adventure awaits you when you decide to visit this amazing destination right in Ontario.
Something Different for Your Honeymoon
Those born and raised in Canada are usually well aware of the beauty of the land. This is one of the reasons some couples don’t consider sticking close to home for the honeymoon. If you’ve already been on endless hikes through the woods and seen many of the sights the country has to offer, you may want to think about something a bit different. A trip to Yukon can allow you a totally new experience with a visit to Kluane.
Kluane National Park has a diverse and appealing geography that offers couples a wealth of different activities to explore. You and your partner can hit the trails and see Canada from an entirely new perspective by hiking through a truly remarkable environment. Thrillseekers will have the opportunity to kayak in a rushing river, scale some wild heights and engage with the natural world in a spectacular manner.
City Life
Where you visit in Canada for your honeymoon will have a lot to do with where you currently live. One might find the idea of a trip to Quebec City to be quite appealing. The hustle and bustle of the city might not be the right place for everyone to live but there is a ton of fun to be had during a vacation. You and your partner will be able to take in all of the sights of the city during the day and indulge in some amazing nightlife activities after sunset.
There are many wonderful destinations to explore right in your own backyard. Instead of traveling across the planet for your honeymoon, think about the fun that can be had here in Canada. Explore all of your options and you’re bound to discover an amazing trip.
