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Honoring Tradition, Not Faking It (non-religious)

 So, one of you is Methodist and the other is Catholic. Or you are both just spiritual people but one of those in your family is a practicing Catholic or Protestant. For Catholics at least, if there is not a Eucharist, or Communion, during the ceremony, then it falls short of what they expect and feel is necessary

 There is a wonderful solution to this issue, and it can have a great deal of meaning and appeal to all who attend, Christian or not. When I am speaking to a couple where one of the two was raised Catholic or one or both of their parents are Catholic, I suggest that the couple to give the Eucharist (same thing as Communion) to one another.

This seems a little odd at first, but when you see it take place in the ceremony, it is beautiful and very rich in meaning. What including this in the ceremony means to the Catholics in the crowd is difficult to overstate - it is huge. And protestants, who traditionally take the Eucharist only once a month instead at every mass like Catholics, they appreciate the act just the same.

But you are worried that its too “over the top” religious? Not at all. Its all in how your ceremony sets up the moment. I make it a point to say that Christ wanted them to remember when each time they had a meal that we are all one, that God lives on in all of us. I don’t go down the flesh and blood trail with this. Instead, I couch it in the meaning of the couples “first meal together” as it was Christ’s last meal. Symbolic and beautiful.

Just don’t underestimate the meaning that this will have for many who attend your wedding. Although you might not care at all about the Eucharist, others do. Its simple to do. It is very beautiful and will add to the richness of your ceremony, and believe me, once you do it, you’ll be glad you did. And to make it even more meaningful, you can purchase a chalice to be used at other weddings, family weddings, and make it a tradition!

Below are two examples of what can be used (one religious, the other not):

Sharing of the Wine (non-religious) Throughout history, in nearly all cultures and traditions, the sharing of a cup of wine has been used as a universal, central moment of sharing during significant moments. For many it symbolizes the celebration of the harvest, the changing seasons of life, or the ultimate personal sacrifice which others have made on our behalf.

Wine is, after all, the result of years of hard work, the tender care of the grape, a thoughtful mix of ingredients, the patient fermenting, and the unique flavors of each year. So it is fitting that the couple take their first cup of wine as husband and wife, to not only celebrate all that has taken pace in their lives to this point, but as an expression of hope and faith in the harvest of their lives, the commitment they make, the sacrifice of all whom has made this moment possible.

First Communion/Eucharist/Sharing of the First Cup (religious) (very nice if background music is played during this portion of the ceremony) A part of the Christian heritage is the taking of the bread and wine, as Christ did at the last supper, a coming to the table of God and sharing the very spiritually significant experience of communion.This Bride and Groom have chosen to take their very first communion (or cup or eucharist) as husband and wife in your presence to acknowledge the place that their spiritual heritage will continue to have in their new life together.

As tradition tells us, Christ gathered his disciples the evening before his taking to the cross and shared a meal. This meal was different than the others before it in that Christ asked that they make special note of the occasion. Christ knowing of his fate wanted to ensure that each disciple understood that his presence was not fleeting, that Christ was to remain with them always in their hearts, souls, and minds. So that they would not forget the unity of spirit, he asked that they take the bread and wine together in a Spirit of One

. Officiant holds up host (bread) and says: Christ said something like “Even as you eat bread, remember me.” And they ate of the bread.

Officiant holds out host for Groom and Bride.

Groom places the host on the tongue of Bride

Bride places the host on the tongue of Groom

Officiant holds up wine and says: Christ said something like “When you drink this wine, remember me.” And they all took of the cup.

Officiant holds out wine for Groom and Bride

Groom holds the cup for Bride to drink

Bride holds the cup for Groom to drink

Officiant: The taking of a meal together, especially when remembering the life and sacrifice of Christ (and others before and after him), ensures that we do not forget that we are all one body, one blood, and one spirit, and that the breaking of bread and sharing of a cup is more than nourishment or the quenching of thirst, but the sharing of ourselves. (End) ____________________________________________________________________

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Lance has officiated more than 700 weddings and serves the Washington DC metropolitan area. He is also coeditor of The Bridal Forum. Lance is available for wedding officiating and/or consulting services by calling 888-716-4196 or writing to lance@weddingsbylance.com, http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com, http://sunshineweddings.wordpress.com

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When reviewing wedding reception sites, it helps to come equipped with the questions you need answered before making your decision. Here is what you will need to find out from your reception site manager:

Costs Involved

First and foremost? you will need to determine the cost of holding your wedding reception at the site. Sounds like a given, right? You will discover that most reception sites break down their costs differently, and what may seem to be less expensive may wind up more costly once all of the figures are totaled. Avoid confusion by requesting an itemized list of fees? or take this one with you? and tally the costs of each fee and service you will most likely use for your event. (Have an idea of your guest count beforehand? ~this will influence the estimated costs) Then you can compare your lists to accurately determine which site is the most cost effective for your needs.

Already confused? Not to worry? we have compiled a complete list of typical costs and fees charged by wedding reception sites. If the facility does not provide one of these services, such as an onsite caterer, factor in the estimated cost of contracting the service from an outside vendor when tallying your total expenses.

Questions to ask:

· What is the facility rental fee?

· What is the cost? for food? (sites typically offer more than one menu package; determine which menu package you will most likely utilize for your wedding reception?and use that amount in determining your estimate.)

· What is the cost? for beverage? (save time by having an idea of what beverage package you would like to serve, whether a full bar, limited bar or non-alcoholic bar)

· If you can hold your ceremony on site, what is the ceremony fee?

· What is the set-up/break-down fee? (some sites charge per chair, others charge a lump sum)

· What is the staffing fee? (including bartenders, waiters etc.)

· What is the overtime fee?

· Is there a fee for security personnel?

· Is there a fee for parking or valets?

Packages

Just when you think you’ve got a handle on the costs involved in renting a reception site, a facility offers a complete wedding package. Wedding packages can be both cost-effective and convenient, as long as you take care to inquire about exactly what is and what is not included in the package.

Also remember to inquire about the exact descriptions of the items included in the package. For instance? if you have your heart set on an elaborately adorned 5 tiered fondant cake and the package only offers your basic buttercream? the package may not be for you - no matter what the potential savings.

Ask the site manager:

· What is included in the wedding package? Make sure all the basics are included:

· Facility Rental?

· Food and Beverage?

· Ceremony on site?

· Set up and Break down?

· Staffing?

Other items that may or may not be included:

· Cake? (if so, how many does it serve? Can you customize the design?)

· Flowers? (does the package include all floral, or just buffet arrangements or bouquets? Can you customize the arrangements or do they only come in standard varieties?)

· Linens? (what do they look like? How many?)

· Is purchasing the wedding package a requirement? (Many facilities allow brides the option of purchasing the entire package, purchasing a partial package and eliminating specific items or foregoing the wedding package altogether.)

Services

Determine what essential services the reception site provides and what you must contract from an outside vendor:

· Is there an in-house caterer or a list of preferred caterers? If so, are they the exclusive caterers, or can you provide your own?

· Are there on-site kitchen facilities? (off-site caterers will charge extra if they have to bring their own stoves and refrigerators)

· Does the reception site have a list of recommended vendors?

· Can you hold your ceremony on site? If not, are there suitable locations nearby?

· Does the reception site provide staff such as an on-site coordinator, waiters and bartenders?

· Does the reception site provide items such as tables, chairs, plates and glasses? (remember, renting these things yourself can drive up costs)

· Does the reception site provide adequate parking space or valets? What are the costs involved?

· Does the reception site provide on-site security. What are the costs involved?

Amenities

Some important extras that may help you determine the perfect venue for your wedding reception:

· Are there changing rooms for the bridal party?

· Does the facility provide guest accommodations or are their convenient locations nearby?

· Is there a bar area or can one be set up?

· Are there picturesque locations for photo opportunities? Both inside and out?

· Is there a dance floor?

· Are there sufficient restroom facilities?

· Is there, or can you set up, a coat room?

· Is the facility in a desirable location? Consider the view and any potential noise interruptions. Is it easy to get to? Is it close to any nearby attractions? (keep your guests entertained for the entire weekend!)

Terms

Don’t forget the conditions of the contract! Make sure it meets your needs.

· What is the length of the facility rental? Is there an overtime fee if your wedding reception lasts longer?

· Do you have use of the entire reception site? If not - what areas can your party use?

· What is the deposit and when is the remainder due?

· What is the cancellation policy?

· Does the site have any music or noise restrictions?

· Are there any decorating restrictions?

· Will there be another party during, before or after yours? If so, how will this affect your event?

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  For a printable checklist you can take with you when reviewing reception sites, please visit http://www.elegala.com/reception-questions.html, and download the reception site questions pdf.

Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for http://www.elegala.com/ and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today’s wedding trends and styles.

For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit http://www.elegala.com/ , your ultimate wedding planning resource.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

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Since the first part of your future with your better half begins with the giving of an engagement ring, you want it to be the right choice to make her happy for the years to follow. While it may seem an impossible task to chose the perfect ring for your one and only, don’t be overwhelmed completely. Start with the basics and consider these guidelines before heading out to a jeweler.

First, you should decide if you want to begin your search with or without your fiancé. It is very common now for the bride and groom to choose the rings together. If you would rather surprise her, ask for her friend’s opinions about what she would like or better yet, your future mother or sister-in-law may know what her dream ring is (but only if they swear not to peep). Look at the style of jewelry she wears or what she comments she likes on other women or in jewelry windows. This will give you a basic idea of the setting the ring should be, whether she likes platinum, white gold, gold, titanium, or silver. Next, comes the pick of the diamond, which should be your next choice after choosing the setting.

Next, consider if you want a custom ring or an already finished ring. Decide if you want matching rings or not. A custom ring is more unique, which women prefer. If you want a truly unique ring, try browsing at antique stores. Or you could have a special date or phrase engraved on the inside of the ring.

 Universally, when choosing the gem, it is the diamond. This is because a diamond is the hardest gemstone and most versatile. In Western culture the diamond is a symbol of virtue, wealth, and fortune, as well as eternal love. Thus, it is clear why a diamond is perfect for your bride to be. When choosing the diamond, ask the jeweler for a diamond-grading certificate from an independent association like the American Gem Society or the GIA, which should tell you the value and cosmetic enhancements unique to that diamond.

 A good jeweler company is essential to choosing a ring that lasts. They should be able to explain your options for the kind of metals and gems available. Make sure you choose a jeweler that has hand picked gems and knows the best type of finishes to put on the ring and the durability of the ring. They should know how the rings are manufactured and explain why titanium is a great choice (because it is hard and durable, is lighter than gold, and polishes well). They should know that the traditional choice of rings are white gold and platinum. Look into their credentials, if they went to a school or are accredited by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the Jewelers of America. Also, make sure they give you some kind of a warranty. They should be able to clean it periodically to keep your ring looking polished or replace the diamond if it is lost. My mother lost her wedding diamond after twenty-five years of marriage and she was able to get it replaced.

Also, make sure they know your wants and money limits and they follow them. Usually, bigger chains have a wider selection and better prices. The more experience, the better. It helps to ask around and see what friends and family recommend so you have an insider look at the company.

The final factor is of course the cost. Know your limits of what you can afford and make it clear to your jeweler so they can help you find a suitable ring or design your own. Traditionally, a bridal engagement ring costs two month’s pay, but that is adjustable to you. You can cut costs by choosing a diamond that has more flaws, which are not noticeable to the naked eye. Choosing a smaller carat of diamond will reduce your costs as well. Another tip is to shop at the end of the day as your fingers tend to swell during the day. Make sure your hands are not too warm or cold so the ring can be sized to fit you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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