Wedding Suggestions and Tips

Wedding traditions are always fun to think about, especially when you are planning your own wedding. You want it special and sometimes, that means, a bit different than your parents' and friends'. Here are some ways to make it a bit different, yet not too extravagant. Yet, you want to publicly demonstrate your commitment, connection and encourage others to celebrate in your happiness.

Exchanging vows is a great way to express your commitment. Some give a dowry as a demonstrated sacrifice. Some families do exchange gifts as a way of demonstrating their willingness to be part of another family and their agreement with the wedding. A public sacrifice is sometimes part of the wedding ceremony. No, I am not speaking of animal sacrifices. I knew one man who threw away his last pack of cigarettes during the wedding to his wife. This was his way of publicly denouncing tobacco products for his marriage.

Some couples discourage the tradition of gift giving. They understand the economy and don't want people to lavish them with expensive gifts. Besides, Some couples are on their second or third marriage and don't need many household items, etc. As an alternative, they have had a fountain, wishing well or other decorated vessel set in the foyer. People will pass by the vessel and write on a piece of paper their fondest marital wish or their most memorable time either in their own marriage or with the couple. they may also write down their most helpful marital hint or tip. If the fountain has real water, they might attach it to the side of the fountain. If it is a centerpiece, then, the wish is thrown inside of the container.

Remember the culture. Many cultures have rich wedding traditions. You might take the

tradition as your own, or modify it to fit your wedding style.

Instead of the traditional rice throwing, there have been many modifications. The purpose is

to all join in unison in welcoming the bride and groom as husband and wife when they exit the place of ceremony.

Some couples have chosen bird seed throwing, bubble blowing, bell ringing, noise making, flash lighting, pompom shaking or helium balloon releasing.

Couples want to find something symbolic that they can do together that will reflect their marriage to all present. Some feed each other wedding cake, some exchange rings, some light two candles and each candle is used to light a third "love candle." Some couples drink from the same glass. Some couples join hands and have their first dance as Man and Wife. some Christians take communion as their first act as husband and wife. Be creative and find something that will symbolize your feelings and demonstrate unity. One couple that I knew jointly composed and performed a song for their wedding. some couples have even performed a joint bungy jump.

Find out which values are important to you. Think of creative ways to express them. This is hopefully your last wedding, so make it special to you and your partner.