How to make candles burn slower and drip less: If you plan to use candles at your event or wedding, put them into a freezer in a foil-wrapped box the night before. This prevents the candles from burning down too far while the photographer is taking formal portraits before the ceremony. An alternative is to bring an extra set of candles. You don't want it to look like the candles were already used before the wedding actually begins.

Guest-book pen: Bring an extra pen for the guest book. Sometimes decorative pens run out of ink or don't write well. You want to make sure you have a complete list of who attended your wedding.

Money tree or money bag: If you choose to have a "money tree" at your reception, it's a good idea to have envelopes on hand to put the money in. Guests can attach their gifts to the tree along with their names (no one likes to give an anonymous gift). If you choose the tradition of a "dollar dance," carrying a money bag on your arm will eliminate pin marks on your beautiful wedding gown.

The unity candle: Unity candles used during the ceremony are not only symbolic, but can be enjoyed for many years to come to celebrate your anniversaries.
Wedding gown slips: These slips can be very expensive to wear for just one day. Most full-service bridal salons have slips available for rent.

Shoes: Comfort is number one - beauty is second. Find a pair of shoes that will be comfortable, and then customize them with lace, beading, and pearling. Clip-on accessories are also available to dress them up. If you buy a satin shoe, many stores offer free dyeing after the wedding so that you can wear them again. Be sure to tell the salon if the wedding is indoors or outdoors because lighting matters. New shoes are often very "slick." So that you don't trip or fall, always make sure to "buff" the soles of your shoes with sandpaper or score them with a knife (horizontal cut lines). It's a good idea to "break in" your new shoes by wearing them around the house.

Garters: It is nice to buy two garters, one to throw and the other to keep as a fun memento.

Toasting goblets: You'll find a variety of glass, crystal, pewter, or silver goblets and toasting glasses to choose from. You can have them engraved with your names or initials and your wedding date. Your florist will be able to provide decorations such as ribbons and fresh flowers to place around the stems of your glasses or goblets. These are mementos you'll want to keep for years to come or pass on to the next generation.

Something old: Ask your mother or grandmother for something she carried at her wedding: a lace hankie, Bible, or some sentimental jewelry you can wear or carry.

Bubble shower: A new trend is providing containers of bubbles that can be blown as the bride and groom leave the ceremony. The bottles can be customized with the names and wedding date as a keepsake for the guests.

Labels: accessories