While we hope you don't have emergencies on the big day, it's always better to be safe than sorry. We've come up with a list of all those just-in-case items that will ensure your dream wedding goes off without a hitch. The matron or maid of honor should pack these emergency items in a tote bag and stash the bag in a safe but easy-to-access place during the dinner and/or wedding reception.

Essentials

• Aspirin (or pain reliever of choice)
• Band-Aids
• Bottle of water
• Chalk (to cover up any last minute smudges or smears on your wedding dress)
• Clear nail polish (for stocking runs)
• Corsage pins
• Dental floss/toothpicks
• Eye drops
• Extra earring backs
• Extra panty hose
• Hair pins/ponytail holder
• Hand towelettes
• Hem tape
• Matches
• Mini sewing kit
• Safety pins
• Scotch tape
• Sedatives (don't ask!)
• Small folding scissors
• Smelling salts (while we don't expect anyone to faint, it has been known to happen)
• Spot remover
• Static-cling spray
• Straws (so the bride can stay hydrated without messing up her lipstick)
• Tissues
• Tweezers

The matron or maid of honor should keep the following items on hand at all times in a small evening bag for the bride:

• Breath mints/spray
• Cellular phone
• Comb/brush
• Cash (because you never know)
• Hair spray
• Linen handkerchief
• Makeup (for touch-ups)
• Mirror
• Nail file
• Perfume
• Tampons/sanitary napkins

Optional Items

• Granola bars or other easy-to-carry snacks
• Krazy Glue (for nail fixes, shoe heels, decorations, even jewels)
• Sunblock

-- reposted from The Knot

Bad Wedding Etiquette Comebacks

Classy comebacks for all those unwanted wedding planning opinions.

Ever been faced with a wedding comment that was so inappropriate it left you tongue-tied? Among the congratulations and well-wishing, you're bound to hear a few remarks that are rude, annoying, or flat-out appalling. Be prepared and you'll leave them sputtering.
"Are you sure you're ready?"
Translation: Coming from an unmarried acquaintance, this sort of question is likely a projection of their own fears -- they're not in a position to make a lifelong commitment, so it's hard to imagine that you could be.
Quick comeback: Exude confidence and leave no room for anyone to debate if you or your fiance is in any way unprepared for what you're getting into: "Absolutely! We are completely in love and ready to be together forever."
"The marriage won't last."
Translation: Whether it's a reflection of their own marriage problems or a past incident that convinced them monogamy is impossible, this person has a knack for souring good news.
Quick comeback: It's easy to get seriously offended by this one, but take the high road and try cheesy humor. Ask if their favorite precious stone is "jaded" or whether they hit any traffic on the Pessimist Expressway that morning.
"Your engagement is too long."
Translation: Any engagement over a year might seem excessive to some, but it takes a lot of time to pull everything together. The person's comment may be out of surprise, not ill will.
Quick comeback: You have a few acceptable options: Explain that the best wedding vendors are booked more than a year in advance, that you're extending the engagement to save more money, or that you have something you want to accomplish (finish your degree, settle into a new job) before you make your marriage official.
"Your engagement is too short."
Translation: While you and your fiance have probably discussed getting engaged for a while, the news might be a shock to some. The person who says this doubts you'll have enough time to plan a nice wedding.
Quick comeback: Reassure them that though your engagement is brief, you set the wedding planning wheels in motion well before he popped the question. Be calm -- if you seem too swept up in the excitement of the proposal, it supports the idea that you're rushing things.
"Is that really the ring you wanted?"
Translation: Almost any engagement ring can elicit a snide remark, whether it's too big, too small, too sparkly, or not sparkly enough. This sort of nastiness undoubtedly stems from jealously that you've been proposed to, and the ring is an object that provides an outlet for them to concentrate all their envious feelings on.
Quick comeback: It's every newly engaged woman's right to show off her rock, but if you get negative vibes from someone, draw focus away from the ring with a simple reply like, "We're both really happy and excited."
"This bridesmaid dress is ugly."
Translation: While it's a cliche for a bridesmaid to gripe about the dress, it still happens. If she's strapped for cash, her disapproval may be in hopes that you'll pick something less expensive. Or she could really think it's hideous.
Quick comeback: Find out why she doesn't like it and try to locate some middle ground. Suggest that she stick with the dress color but then let her choose her own silhouette.
"That's a great idea...I'll do it too!"
Translation: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it's aggravating when a friend steals a unique wedding idea. Take it as a compliment that your ideas are so great; then steer your friend in a new direction.
Quick comeback: Agree the idea would work well in your friend's wedding, but suggest she personalize it to better fit her style. Encourage some brainstorming and change an element of the concept so it's similar but not identical.
"Who is paying for all this?"
Translation: Maybe they're surprised by all of the nice details you've included in your wedding, or perhaps they're wondering how your parents could afford to host such a great party on their own dime. Either way, this one ranks near the very top of the bad etiquette list.
Quick comeback: Unless you're willing to share that info, immediately let the person know they've crossed the line: "I'm sorry, but that's between my fiance and me."
"Am I going to be invited?"
Translation: No need to decipher this one -- this person simply wants to attend the party. Tactless on their part, sure, but don't be surprised when an annoying coworker, excitable neighbor, or wayward cousin asks for an invite.
Quick comeback: Rather than postpone the awkwardness with a dodgy line like, "We haven't finalized the list yet," tell them that, due to a tight budget, you're keeping things intimate and the guest list will be mostly close family.
"How much did that cost?"
Translation: This can be interpreted in a few ways. If the person is planning their own wedding, they're probably asking out of genuine interest because they like what you're doing. If, however, there's no chance they're planning their nuptials, odds are whatever you tell them will garner an obnoxious response.
Quick comeback: A simple "That's none of your business" will suffice, or you could throw them off with some dramatics: "It cost me an arm and my fiance a leg -- next week we're going in for surgery together. Romantic, right?"
"I'm RSVPing...with guest."
Translation: Some people think that it's fine to tack on a "plus one" to any wedding invite. Though it's definitely a wedding etiquette faux pas, you should give your guest the benefit of the doubt and chalk it up to an innocent misunderstanding rather than a snobby "I don't go anywhere without a date" attitude.
Quick comeback: Call as soon as you receive the offending RSVP and gently explain: "I'm sorry that it wasn't clearer, and we're excited you're coming, but our guest list is packed so we can't include a date for every guest."
"I want to make a toast."
Translation: They want the world (or at least the reception) to know how proud they are you tied the knot. And a minute in the spotlight satisfies any extrovert tendencies they might have.
Quick comeback: Say that you're flattered by the offer, but you want to keep the toasts to a minimum -- just the parents and honor attendants. If a close family member really wants to speak, you should consider letting them say a few words at the rehearsal dinner.
"So when are you going to have kids?"
Translation: The joy of a wedding leaves some people overly enthusiastic about the next huge life event: starting a family. Curiosity about baby plans is natural -- most people keep those thoughts to themselves, while others prove to be significantly less reserved.
Quick comeback: Even if you have a clear plan about when you want to start having babies, be vague in discussing a timeline. Try, "We'd love to be parents someday, but we're taking things one step at a time -- starting with the wedding."

Reposted from the Knot

5 Steps to Hiring a Wedding Planner

1. Do Your Homework

Check out prospective planners’ websites for photos of recent weddings they have done to help narrow down your list. Notice whether elements seem to have a cohesive look and if there is an overarching style that the weddings share—this is probably what the planner is most experienced with, so decide if it’s one you like. If all the weddings that he’s planned look over-the-top and glamorous and you’re looking for a small, intimate gathering, he may not be the right person for you. Also, look for information about the types of planning services they offer, sites they’ve worked with, awards, and membership in professional associations (such as the Association of Bridal Consultants).

2. Call Your Favorites

Call your top three or four picks to confirm the following: types of planning services offered, names of sites they have worked with, wedding date availability, and appropriateness price-wise (ask their typical price range and/or cost of the average wedding they plan). If their answers fit your budget and your vision, set up appointments to meet with each of them.

3. Prepare for Your First Meeting

Bring magazine clippings, photos, and even your inspiration board(s) with you when you meet with potential planners. At your meeting, you obviously want to get a sense of the quality of their weddings by asking them about events they’ve done and perusing their portfolios, but you’re also looking at their personalities: Is this someone you can work with intimately for months at a time? Voice your ideas about your style and colors and see how the planner responds—she should meet them with enthusiasm. Then ask how she’d pull off your vision to get a better idea of how she works. A good planner should be able to listen to your thoughts and hone them to make your wedding something truly unique and memorable.

4. Call References

Don’t feel pressured to hire a planner you like on the spot. Be sure to call references and ask the following.

• How closely did she stick to your budget?


• Can you e-mail me photos from your wedding? (This is a good way to confirm the overall consistency and professionalism of the wedding. Planners’ portfolios are filled with their best work, and, of course, they’ll offer brides they know were happy with their work for references, so search online for other real weddings they’ve done as well.)


• How well did she interpret your ideas?


• Were the style and wedding exactly what you wanted?


• What did she take care of for you (guest list, vendor meetings, setup, etc.)?


• Did she have good vendor recommendations? Did she coordinate with other vendors?


• Did she respond quickly to your calls or e-mails? Was she nice to work with?


• Did the wedding go smoothly according to your guests?


• Did anything go wrong, and how did she handle it?

5. Seal the Deal

Also, take some time to compare and contrast prices, impressions, notes, and, if provided, formal proposals (some planners may draft their overall vision for your wedding and their intended services in the form of a proposal, which would then work as the basis for your contract). Once you’ve found your planner, call her immediately to express your desire to move forward and have her prepare a contract. As soon as you’ve signed the contract and paid your deposit, you’ll have your right-hand woman (or man) secured.

Reposted from the Knot

25 Things No One Tells You About Wedding Planning

Wedding planning surprises (not all the good kind) -- and how to stay one step ahead of them.

When it comes to planning your day, at least a few surprises are, well, straight-
up unavoidable. Of course, it pays to be prepared, but know that even the most
meticulous preparation won't make you completely curveball-exempt.

Throwing a casual wedding is just as much work as throwing a fancy one.

Whether the napkins you'll use are made of paper or of silk flown in from France that was handwoven by master craftsmen, you've still got to pick those suckers. And whether you'll serve French fries or filet, wear couture or a simple vintage frock, the same holds true.
Solved: Though this realization tends to hit brides-to-be like the proverbial ton of bricks, the realization alone is half the battle. The second half? Allotting a generous portion of time in which to plan -- sans panic. No matter your style, a year is typically just about right.

You're talking wedding way, way more than you think

Have you busted your bestie rolling her eyes when she thought you were too busy expanding on the virtues of fondant vs. buttercream to see? Did your mom start to glaze over the last time you tried to show her pictures of bouquets? Yeah, you're guilty.
Solved:First, accept that you might not actually be able to press pause on the compulsive wedding chatter. Hey, you're excited, and that's cool! But expecting one or two people to listen to all of it? Too much. Share the love. Spread the obsessing out over a wider circle of friends (that's what cubemates are for, right?) and space it out, so you can spare them all, including your fiance, from bride (that would be you) burnout.

Words like "classic" are highly subjective. highly

Your definition of the word "classic" may mean preppy yellow and blue at a yacht club, but to your planner, it could mean black-tie ballroom with ornate décor, and to your florist, it might mean a tented affair with a romantic look -- leaving you with a confused aesthetic that doesn't fit anyone's vision.
Solved: No matter what detail you're planning, a picture is worth a thousand words. Show your vendors what "classic" means to you by bringing them examples of what you want, lest you waste precious time (or budget) wandering down the road to so-not-what-you-wanted town.

You will randomly stress-cry over something, be it tablecloths, invites or the dress your mom has chosen

Your florist tells you pink peonies won't be in-season, and you burst into tears. No matter that you don't even like peonies -- or pink. Your mom is mad that your fiance's stepmom chose the same color dress, and suddenly, you're bawling that your marriage is doomed.
Solved: Let 'em flow, but then let it go. Think of it as a sign you need a wedding planning break.

You will randomly happy-cry over something, be it tablecloths, invites or the dress your mom has chosen

As you mail your invites, you can barely choke back the tears long enough to say "hand stamp." Your mom shows you the muumuu she plans to wear, and you tear up over how pretty she looks.
Solved: Savor it. As cliché as it sounds, these are the moments you'll remember forever.

At least one not-so-minor unexpected expense will pop up

Whether it's weather (gotta rent a tent 'cause it looks like rain) or whimsy (gotta get a backup gown 'cause I can't make up my mind), something that wasn't in your budget will materialize.
Solved: Even the tightest budget needs a little wiggle room. Build in a buffer (5 percent of the overall budget) from the start, so you won't have to worry every time the wind blows.

Idiot spats will happen

You feel deeply betrayed over his dislike of fondant. He claims you "don't get who he really is" after you nix all Metallica songs from the reception playlist. Um, who are you?
Solved: Because the stakes (one day, one chance to get it right) feel so high, nerves fray, and flare-ups happen fast. It's easy to forget that you're on the same team. Scheduling in regular romantic time will help -- as will lots of kissing and making up when you (inevitably) slip up.

The groom-to-be won't care about things you thought he would

From planning the menu (shrug) to picking the music (yawn), your guy's uninterested reactions even to the "fun stuff" might catch you off guard and bum you out. After all, these are the things you were sure he'd enjoy -- so what will this mean for all the not-so-fun details?
Solved:Ask him what he wants to do and then listen. He may not be as disinterested as he's acting. It's possible that you've overridden his opinions one too many times and his pride is hurting. Of course, he may just have no interest in wedding planning at all. Can you make peace with it, temper your expectations and give him a few to-dos? Or can you live with him just handling the honeymoon and the music? Remember, you're marrying this guy. He needs to be a good husband -- not a good wedding planner.

The groom-to-be will care about things you never dreamed he would

Whether it's the color of paper stock for the invites or a preference for a certain species of peony, your man will give you at least one case of the what-the-what's by expressing strong feelings about something totally unexpected and out of character. Even cooler? His new interest might be a shock to him too!
Solved: As the saying goes, if it ain't broke.... Why not raise a glass to a lifetime of more quirky little surprises from your man? That said, if he's venturing into groomzilla territory (it happens), divvy up the decision-making tasks so you can each be master of your own domains.

Everyone (and we do mean everyone) has an opinion

"Whatever you do," says a random coworker, "don't hire a band." Too bad you just did. "Hope you're not wearing white...it's so boring," says your teenage cousin. Too bad you totally are. "You know what's the worst?" says the checkout lady at the grocery store. "Wedding cake." Too bad that lady was insane.
Solved: While people will likely keep spouting opinions about every detail the second they hear you're aisle-bound, it's okay to remind them (and yourself) that they can put their opinions to good use at their own weddings...and pretty much nowhere else. Stick to your guns and rely on your team of pros for solid, unbiased advice. This is where it pays to remember it's your day.

You (yes, you) will probably have at least one 'zilla moment

It might be a quick blip, or it may last for weeks, but there will come a time when you temporarily cross over to the dark side of the aisle. While you're there, you may truly believe that a pink chocolate fountain, a rose-petal cannon and a Cinderella coach pulled by horses dressed as unicorns are just basic wedding essentials every bride deserves.
Solved:Since 'zilla outbreaks are tricky to self-diagnose, it's time to call up your most truth-telling friend and run your new, big plans past her. If she utters any iteration of the words, "Have you lost your mind?" a time-out is in order. Or just run the idea by any of the major bill footers to see how they react. Fidgeting, fumbling and fuming are all good indications that what you're saying is crazy talk. (Or way outside your budget.) The good news is, it happens to the best of brides. And after a brief break from wedding planning, most brides report a return to sane thinking -- followed by a good, long WTF?!?! laugh with their fiance.

Reposted from The Knot

10 Ways to Make Sure Your Wedding Isn't Boring

Attending a wedding may be a privilege, but sometimes it's not always a pleasure. The last thing a bride and groom want is for their wedding guests to spend the reception checking their watches. Here are 10 tips to keep any wedding guest yawns at bay.

1. Make introductions at the rehearsal.

A wedding brings together two families and sets of friends -- which usually means a big group of people who don't know each other awkwardly attempting small talk. The solution? Invite relatives and out-of-town guests to the rehearsal dinner to break the ice, and introduce those who might have common interests. (That uncle who always loved Top Gun? Definitely link him to your fiance's fighter pilot cousin). By the time the wedding rolls around, your guests will have met in a more relaxed atmosphere the evening before and (hopefully) keep the conversations going at the reception.

2. Stick to the schedule.

No one expects things to run with military precision (especially when it comes to rushing your older relatives), but you don't want to force your guests to idle around while you take your formal wedding pictures. This is where the cocktail hour comes in. Set up a lounge or shady courtyard for your guests to mingle, and equip the area with snacks, drinks, plenty of places to sit, and even a little music to set the mood and keep the party atmosphere alive.

3. Don't let guests go hungry.

Two words: hors d'oeuvres. Even if you plan on serving a full dinner at your reception, it's a good idea to have a few nibbles for your guests to nosh on while they wait for you and your new spouse to make your grand entrance -- lest your guests get bored and cranky. Mini empanadas, soup shooters, vegetable skewers, even fried macaroni and cheese balls are all great options (go for one-bite appetizers so guests can chat while they snack). Your guests will be refreshed from the ceremony -- and grateful for the sustenance.

4. Plan an exit strategy.

If you really want guests to be able to enjoy themselves at your reception, arrange for transportation to get them home safely afterward. Some couples choose to throw their reception in a hotel banquet hall and block off rooms for their guests, while others hire a shuttle service to run throughout the night. This extra consideration gives guests the freedom to relax (drink) without worrying about getting home safely when the party wraps up.

5. Consider your venue.

Of course, your budget will be a huge factor in determining where you throw your wedding, but picking an interesting reception site can go a long way toward keeping guests entertained. Many science museums will let you rent out their exhibit areas, and zoos often have banquet areas with the animals in full view. Even an otherwise bland reception space can be dressed up with dramatic decor or specialty entertainment (like a photo booth), so be sure to talk to your site manager about your options.

6. Work your seating chart.

There's nothing more uncomfortable than being the one couple at a table where you don't know anyone and everyone else went to high school together -- particularly if you can see friends laughing it up five tables away. A well-played seating chart is a cost-free way to make sure your guests spend time with people they like -- or even to set them up with someone new!

7. Put a time limit on toasts.

Yes, it's nice to hear words of encouragement and well wishes, but unless your friends are moonlighting as stand-up comedians, an overly long toast can easily go from sentimental to excruciating. Limit the number and length of toasts to a few key guests (think: maid of honor, best man, your parents), and let everyone get back to the party.

8. Bring in the...clowns?

Remember that scary clown/magician from your eighth birthday party? Today's specialty performers are nothing like that. The options for wedding entertainment span from tricked-out DJs to belly dancers to singing waiters -- these people are pros at making sure weddings aren't boring.

9. Think beyond wedding cake.

Wedding cakes are still a staple, but consider expanding the selection for those with a sweet tooth -- we're talking a full dessert bar with everything from whoopie pies, truffles, cupcakes, candies, along with local delicacies like fried Oreos or black-and-white cookies. The dessert bar can double as your wedding favor by setting out plastic bags or boxes for your guests to take a snack for the road.

10. Relax -- seriously.

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but when the day arrives, everyone will have more fun if you can overlook any little mishaps (and there's always something that goes slightly awry) and let loose. Think about it: Do you have fun at parties where the host is incessantly on edge? To avoid sabotaging your good mood, assign any last-minute tasks to a bridesmaid, relative, or your wedding planner -- and designate a friend who, if they observe you getting stressed, will ply you with a cocktail or two.

resubmitted from The Knot

Wedding Planning: Wedding Dates to Avoid in 2013, 2014 and 2015

Ready to set a date? Check this list of dates you might want to steer clear of when booking your wedding.

Personally Significant Days

Check your own calendar for college reunions, family weddings, anniversaries or other events, like big conventions or festivals in your city (call your local chamber of commerce), and any annual occasions that involve your family or close friends.

Holiday Weekends

Holiday weekend weddings have pros and cons. You've got an extra day for the festivities (and recovery!); plus, a Sunday wedding is often less expensive than a Saturday one would be. However, costs of travel and hotels may be higher. And if you're looking to marry around Valentine's Day, be wary of your floral bill, especially if you've got your heart set on red roses -- they'll likely be more expensive than at any other time of the year. Likewise, reception sites often charge a higher fee for a New Year's Eve wedding. Also consider the impact of a holiday weekend on your guest list: Some families have standing plans or traditions that they'd prefer not to miss.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (always a Monday)
Weekend of January 19-21, 2013
Weekend of January 18-20, 2014
Weekend of January 17-19, 2015
Presidents' Day (always a Monday)
Weekend of February 16-18, 2013
Weekend of February 15-17, 2014
Weekend of February 14-16, 2015
Mother's Day (always a Sunday) Make sure your moms are okay sharing this weekend with your wedding. And ask yourself, do you want your anniversary to fall the same weekend as Mother’s Day when (or if) you become a mom?
Weekend of May 11-12, 2013
Weekend of May 10-11, 2014
Weekend of May 9-10, 2015
Memorial Day (always a Monday)
Weekend of May 25-27, 2013
Weekend of May 24-26, 2014
Weekend of May 23-25, 2015
Father's Day (always a Sunday) Like you would with your moms, check with your dads about doubling up on this day. And grooms, make sure you’re okay with celebrating your anniversary the same weekend as Father's Day if you decide to have kids.
Weekend of June 15-16, 2013
Weekend of June 14-15, 2014
Weekend of June 20-21, 2015
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Friday, July 4, 2014
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Labor Day (always a Monday)
Weekend of August 31-September 2, 2013
Weekend of August 30-September 1, 2014
Weekend of September 5-7, 2015

Numerically Quirky Dates

11/12/13 falls on a Tuesday
4/10/2014 (a palindrome) falls on a Thursday
12/13/14 falls on a Saturday

5/5/15 falls on a Tuesday
5/10/15 falls on a Sunday
5/15/15 falls on a Friday

Columbus Day (always a Monday)
Weekend of October 12-14, 2013
Weekend of October 11-13, 2014
Weekend of October 10-12, 2015
Halloween Avoid it if you're terrified that someone might actually show up in costume (and embrace it if you want them to!).
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Friday, October 31, 2014
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Thanksgiving (always a Thursday)
November 28, 2013
November 27, 2014
November 26, 2015
New Year's Eve
MondayTuesday, December 31, 2013
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Thursday, December 31, 2015

Religious and Cultural Holidays

Be mindful of religious and cultural holidays (your own and those of your guests) when planning your wedding. There may even be restrictions at your house of worship as to whether you're allowed to marry at these times.
Palm Sunday
March 24, 2013
April 13, 2014
March 29, 2015
Easter Sunday
March 31, 2013
April 20, 2014
April 5, 2015
Passover (begins at sunset the night before)
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Saturday, April 4, 2015
Tisha B’Av (begins at sunset the night before)
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Sunday, July 26, 2015
Rosh Hashanah (begins at sunset the night before)
Thursday, September 5, 2013, until nightfall on Friday, September 6, 2013
Thursday, September 25, 2014, until nightfall on Friday, September 26, 2014
Monday, September 14, 2015, until nightfall on Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Yom Kippur (begins at sunset the night before)
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Hanukkah (begins at sunset)
Thursday, November 28, 2013, until nightfall on Thursday, December 5, 2013
Wednesday, December 17, 2014, until nightfall on Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Monday, December 7, 2015, until nightfall on Monday, December 14, 2015
Christmas
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Friday, December 25, 2015
Kwanzaa
Thursday, December 26, 2013, until Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Friday, December 26, 2014, until Thursday, January 1, 2015
Saturday, December 26, 2015, until Friday, January 1, 2016
Eid al-Fitr (dates may vary based on how each family observes)
Thursday, August 8, 2013, until Friday, August 9, 2013
Monday, July 28, 2014, until Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Friday, July 17, 2015, until Saturday, July 18, 2015
Eid al-Adha (dates may vary based on how each family observes)
Monday, October 14, 2013, until Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Saturday, October 4, 2014, until Sunday, October 5, 2014
Wednesday, September 23, 2015, until Thursday, September 24, 2015
Ram Navami
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Krishna Janmashtami
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Saturday, September 5, 2015

Days of Remembrance

We're talking about historically significant days (like the anniversary of September 11) that may be off-limits if you come from a big military family. Or, that could make them all the more meaningful -- it’s up to you to decide.
Patriot Day
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Friday, September 11, 2015
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Monday, December 7, 2015

Major Sporting Events

If you're die-hard sports fans -- or if you're worried your guests might have a hard time choosing between your wedding and the big game -- avoid getting married during popular sporting events. And if a lot of your guests come from the same alma mater, watch out for homecoming weekends and bowl games that might conflict.
Super Bowl Sunday
February 3, 2013, in New Orleans
February 2, 2014, in East Rutherford, NJ
February 1, 2015, in Glendale, AZ
Final Four and March Madness
Saturday, April 6, 2013, and Monday, April 8, 2013, in Atlanta
Saturday, April 5, 2014, and Monday, April 7, 2014, in Arlington, TX
Saturday, April 4, 2015, and Monday, April 6, 2015, in Indianapolis

Unlucky Dates

If you're superstitious, you might want to watch out for these historically inauspicious dates from across several cultures.
The Ides of March
For ancient Romans, an "ides" was simply a date that marked the middle of the month -- until Julius Caesar was assassinated on March 15 in 44 B.C. Since then, "Beware the Ides of March" has become the mantra of this superstitiously unlucky date.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Friday the 13th
The unluckiest date of the year has questionable origins. Some historians say it comes from the 13 diners who were present at the last supper, but the famous Code of Hammurabi doesn't include a 13th law, which suggests this superstition is as many as 3 millennia old. And it wasn’t until a successful novel titled Friday the Thirteenth was published in the early 1900s that Friday became part of the unlucky equation.
September 13, 2013
December 13, 2013
June 13, 2014
February 13, 2015
March 13, 2015
November 13, 2015
Leap Years
Greeks and Romans thought that starting any new life event -- from getting married to baptizing a child -- in a leap year would bring bad luck.
Next Leap Year: 2016
Reposted from the Knot

 http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-budget/articles/wedding-dates-to-avoid.aspx#ixzz2cEGc4Hy2

Wedding Planning: 30 Expert Tips and Tricks

Want to be certain all your wedding planning bases are covered? Read the tips that no bride should be without.

Photo: Krista Handfield Photography

When planning your wedding, there are things that are nice to know, like that mermaid silhouettes are all the rage or that purple is making a comeback. Then, there are things you need to know -- advice so essential that any bride who's lucky enough to hear it thinks, "I'm so glad someone told me that!" If you're wondering whether there's something you may have missed (or even if you've got everything under control), check out our indispensable planning secrets.

1. Guests Come First

Get a grip on the approximate number of guests you'll invite before settling on a venue. This will ensure there's ample space for your crew. As a rule of thumb, allow for 25 to 30 square feet per guest. That may seem like a lot, but it's not if you count the space you'll need for the tables, bustling waiters, the band, and the dance floor.

2. Investigate Wedding Blackout Dates

Know ahead of time if your wedding date falls on the same day as a trade conference, charity walk,

3. Listen to Mother Nature

Heed the weather and other potential annoyances. Guests have been known to skip out early from hotter-than-hot summer tent weddings and improperly heated winter loft receptions. Bugs (gnats, deerflies, and no-see-ums) also swarm in certain areas during certain seasons. Consider renting pest control tanks to alleviate the problem or including bug repellent in guests' gift bags. And if you want a sunset ceremony, make sure you know when to say your vows by checking SunriseSunset.com.

4. Check Your Credit

Take advantage of the high cost of weddings and sign up for a credit card with a rewards program. Whether it gives you airline miles or great shopping deals, consolidating all wedding-related purchases to this card will help you accumulate thousands of rewards points (which could be used for your honeymoon).

5. Pay It Forward

Let one vendor lead you to another. Your wedding photographer can tell you which florist's blooms really pop, and your reception manager should know which band packs the dance floor.

Let one vendor lead you to another. Your photographer can tell you which florist's blooms really pop, and your reception manager should know which band packs the dance floor.

6. Lighten Your List

The easiest way to trim your wedding budget? Cut your guest list. Remember, half of your wedding expenses go to wining and dining your guests. If it's costing you $100 per person, eliminating one table of 10 can save you $1,000.

7. Ask and You Might Receive

Request an extra hour for cocktails or for your band to throw in that Frank Sinatra sound-alike before you sign on the dotted line. Most vendors would rather secure the reservation than nickel-and-dime you early on and turn you off. Later on, though, they may have less of a motive to meet you halfway.

8. Make a Meal Plan

Another unforeseen expense? Feeding your wedding day crew. Before you sign the contracts, make sure you're not required to serve the same meal to your vendors that guests will receive. Otherwise, you could be paying for 20 additional lobster tails. Choose a less expensive (but equally hearty) meal for them instead. You will have to let your wedding caterer know a couple of days before the wedding exactly how many vendors you need to feed (don't forget photography assistants and band roadies) and what you want them to serve.

9. Get Organizationally Focused

In a three-ring binder, compile all your correspondences with vendors, notes you make during meetings, and photos or tear sheets from magazines you want vendors to see. Set up a special email address dedicated to your wedding, and store important vendor numbers in your cell phone.

10. Tend to Your Bar

Typically, you need one bartender per 50 guests to keep the line at a minimum. But if you're serving a signature cocktail that cannot be made ahead of time (or in large quantities), consider adding an extra server designated to this task.

11. Leave Some Room in Your Wallet

Your wedding budget should follow this formula: 48 to 50 percent of total budget to reception; 8 to 10 percent for flowers; 8 to 10 percent for attire; 8 to 10 percent for entertainment/music; 10 to 12 percent for photo/video; 2 to 3 percent for invites; 2 to 3 percent for gifts; and 8 percent for miscellaneous items like a wedding coordinator. It's essential to allocate an extra 5 to 10 percent of your money for surprise expenses like printing extra invites because of mistakes, additional tailoring needs, umbrellas for a rainy day, and ribbons for the wedding programs. Go to TheKnot.com/budgeter for an interactive budget allows you to add your own items.

12. Don't Be Afraid to Ask

Your wedding vendors should be your go-to, most-trusted experts during the planning process. When working with them, you should feel free to really explore what it is you want -- maybe it's serving a late-night snack instead of a first course or doing a bridal portrait session rather than an engagement session. The bottom line is that you should feel like you can have an honest conversation with them about what it is you want. Their job will be to tell you what you can and can't make work given your wedding budget.

13. Wait for a Date

Sometimes, last-minute planning can work in your favor. The closer your date, the more bargaining power you have. Since most people book their wedding sites at least six months in advance, calling for open dates two months prior to your desired time can save you up to 25 percent. And, Friday and Sunday weddings should cost about 30 percent less than Saturday weddings.

14. Manage the Mail

Of course you want the perfect stamps for your wedding invitations. But not all stamps are widely available at every post office, especially in large quantities. Save yourself scouting time by ordering them online at USPS.com. And be sure to weigh your invitation and all the additional paper products before you send them out so you can attach the right amount of postage. Ask your stationer about the need for additional postage for odd-shaped envelopes.

15. Prepare for Rejection

Know that as a rule, about 30 percent of the people you invite won't attend. Naturally, this depends on the location of your wedding (destination weddings are harder to attend), how many out-of-towners are on your list, and the timing of the event (some guests may have annual holiday or summer plans). On the other hand, everyone could accept -- knowing your wedding will be the can't-miss party of the year!

16. Make a Uniform Kids Policy

You have four choices: You can welcome children with open arms; you can decide to have an "adults only" wedding; you can include immediate family only; or, you can hire a child care service to provide day care either at the reception space, in a hotel room, or in a family member's home. To prevent hurt feelings, it's wise to avoid allowing some families to bring children while excluding others (unless, of course, the children are in your bridal party).

17. Prioritize Your People

Pare down your guest list with the "tiers of priority" trick. Place immediate family, the bridal party, and best friends on top of the list; follow with aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends you couldn't imagine not being there. Under that, list your parents' friends, neighbors, coworkers, and so on. If you need to make some cuts, start from the bottom until you reach your ideal number.

18. Take It One Step at a Time

Put together a wedding planning schedule and do things one by one, in a logical order, so you don't take on too much too fast and end up with everything snowballing around you. Don't hire any vendors before you've confirmed your date; don't design your cake before you've envisioned your flowers; and don't book a band before you've settled on a space.

19. No Ring, No Bring

If your guest list is bursting at the seams, assess the plus-one scenario. Do a faux seating chart in your mind, and imagine whom your single pal would sit with. If it's a table of singles that she knows pretty well, then you're all set. If it's a table of couples (making her the odd one out) or if it's a table of singles where she won't know anyone, consider bending the rules. If asked why you're not allowing single friends to bring guests, size constraints or your parents' never-ending guest list are always good fallback white lies.

20. Release Rooms

As soon as you have picked a date, start to look for hotels in a wide variety of price points. Many hotels allow you to reserve rooms for guests under a special wedding block and a reduced rate. You can then release any unbooked rooms a month prior to your wedding. If the hotels you contact insist upon contracts with cancellation penalties, just say no -- you don't want to be responsible for rooms you can't fill.

21. Provide Accurate Driving Directions

Make sure guests know where they're going. As easy as online map programs are to use, sometimes the directions are wrong -- or there's a quicker, less traffic-prone route to take. Ask your ceremony and reception sites for printouts of recommended driving directions, which they often keep in stock for weddings and will give to you for free, and test out the routes yourself.

22. Keep a Paper Trail

Get any nonstandard changes to your agreements in writing or send the vendor a confirmation email saying, "Hello, just confirming that you'll keep the venue open until 2 a.m. versus midnight." Don't take anyone on his word -- by the time the big day rolls around, your contact may no longer be working there to vouch for you.

23. Schedule the Setup

You must make sure there's ample time for setup. If you're renting a venue and bringing in outside help, ask, "What time can people come in to set things up?" Preston Bailey, author of Preston Bailey's Fantasy Weddings, recommends seeing if they can do it the day before, or at the very least the entire wedding day, before the event starts.

24. Learn About Marriage Licenses

You can check your state's license requirements online, but confirm with a call to the county clerk's office to see when they're open. Even if it's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., they may issue marriage licenses only during slower times like, say, Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Give a copy of your marriage license to your mom or your maid of honor (just in case you lose yours during the final days before your wedding).

25. Go Over Ground Rules

Be prepared! Ask the manager of the house of worship or site where you'll be married for the list of restrictions (if any). For instance, is flash photography or bare shoulders prohibited? Or, if you're exchanging vows outdoors, are you allowed to plant tent stakes in the lawn (which is often a no-no)?

26. Classify Your Cash

Wedding budgets are all about balance. Start your budget planning by making a list of the crucial details, like the music, your wedding gown, the invitations, the flowers, and the photographer, and assign a number to each -- one being the most important and three being the least. Invest your money in all your number ones and cut corners on your number threes. (But everything can't fall into the number one category!) For example, if a designer gown and fabulous food are what really matter, you may have to choose simple invitations and smaller floral arrangements.

27. Help Guests Pay Attention

Make sure your guests can see -- and hear. If people are seated farther than 15 rows back from your ceremony altar or podium, consider renting a mic and a riser. This could range anywhere from $50 to $100, depending on the equipment used. You'll need to coordinate the delivery and setup with your ceremony space, so put your wedding planner or best man in charge of this task.

28. Write Down Your Digits

Carry an emergency contact sheet on your wedding day. Keep the paper with names and phone numbers of all your vendors in your purse -- it may come in handy in case your limo driver gets lost or you decide you'd like your photographer to take some behind-the-scenes shots.

29. Call the Fashion Police

Don't go dress shopping on your own -- all the gowns will start to look the same after a while and it will be harder to recall which style you really loved. But be careful about who you do bring. If your mom or sibling can't make the trip, ask a friend who is truly honest. This is the time when you really need to know which dress looks best.

30. Be Realistic With Your Time

When it comes down to the last month of your planning (and when you're particularly harried) look at your mile long to-do list and cut three things. Yes, cut three things. Not crucial things that you just don't feel like doing, such as picking a processional song or confirming final details with all of your vendors. Eliminate only the over-the-top tasks like hand-painting "Just Married" signs, or baking cookies for all of the welcome bags. Make a pledge to not think about them ever again.

Reposted from The Knot

-- The Knot

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