My Dream Wedding Ceremony

Monthly Archives: April 2012

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meanings

The modern approach on weddings is very different from the ancient approach. Nowadays, we have talented designers who can transform a traditional party into a fashionable event. This is why so there is so much originality involved in contemporary weddings. But the truth is that weddings are still traditional gatherings based on many symbols. Perhaps they are not simple rites meant to satisfy a formality or a custom, but they are still rooted in many significant things.

We don’t know how many of you are curious to know why are wedding dresses white colored and what the meaning of the wedding ring is, but we are convinced that many of you would like to find out more about these precious things. It would be inappropriate to plan a wedding without knowing the basic things about their significance or important to you as a couple, to your family and guests. You may know why you’re getting married and we think that’s a very strong reason. But you should also know what the meanings are to each step and item you’re planning.

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

No matter how many trends will emerge in the industry of weddings, some customs and traditions will never disappear or die. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a conventional or offbeat couple. Weddings are sacred events founded on profound rituals that can never be changed or replaced. Wedding ceremonies are repeated each time a couple is getting married because they are formal ceremonies based on traditions. As we said before, it would be nice to know why you’re doing what you’re doing at your wedding.. We have to admit that some old traditions are rooted in superstition. But no one said you must fulfill them all!

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Choose only those rites that are special to you or can give you the opportunity to appreciate more the wedding ritual and dive in deeper to reach the heart of your wedding. The wear of white dresses became a trend at the late of the 15th century. Anne of Brittany was the one to wear the first white dress at her wedding with King Louis XII. Nevertheless, Queen Victoria is the first woman that made the white wedding gown become a popular trend.

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Traditional Meaning (Source: intimateweddings.com)

The wedding veil tradition is rooted in Middle Eastern and Asian cultures, when the bride had to be protected by the evil spirits. The wedding ring wear comes from the ancient Greeks who thought that third finger of the right hand has a vein that goes straight to the heart. The Egyptians thought that the circle of the band represents unending love and so they chose it for their weddings. The wedding cake is a symbol o fertility, wealth and prosperity for ancient Romans.

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Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico

Planning an ethnical ceremony can be a very romantic experience for the couple and their families. But it can also be a wonderful event to share with close friends and colleagues. If you have never been to a Mexican wedding before you will surely love to find out more about the ceremony and the ritual. The first you should know is that Mexican weddings are usually traditional roman-catholic masses. But there are many couples who want to pay honor to same of their old traditions, especially from Aztec and Native Americans.

These old-century rituals are very unique and interesting to watch and be part of. Cultural weddings are gorgeous and they look extremely beautiful in photos. No one can forget a Mexican wedding very easily. The adherence to an ancient ritual is very important to Mexican couples. The Mass is essential because it holds different types of meanings and significations to the couple and their families. We should also tell you that Mexican ceremonies are very large and sophisticated. And although they are founded on sober rites and symbols, they are very cheerful and fun.

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: mydreamweddingceremony.com)

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: mydreamweddingceremony.com)

The ceremony and the party are bursting with color and a lot of fun dances. Everything is festive in a Mexican wedding and it would be a real pleasure to attend one in the future. We personally enjoy their native music (the Mariachi bands) and the textures they incorporate in the décor. Those of you who have decided to get married in a Mexican way might also want to know more about this culture and find the best way to incorporate the most beautiful elements of tradition in the setting and wear. Even those who are not of Mexican descent can follow their original style.

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: destinationweddingmag.com)

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: destinationweddingmag.com)

The elements of tradition can be too extravagant for those who want something simple and casual. But there are many unique decorations that can suit a comfy informal Mexican inspired wedding to consider. Besides this, no one asks you to incorporate all their symbols, carpets and colored tapestry. Try to keep things light and smooth without sacrificing the tradition. The godparents are among the most important persons of the wedding.

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: thetwistedsifter.files.wordpress.com)

Exotic Wedding Ceremony In Mexico (Source: thetwistedsifter.files.wordpress.com)

They play an essential role in the ceremony in the couple’s life. The “Padrinos” are the real sponsors for the bride and groom because they offer a great financial support for planning the engagement and the wedding. They are also the advisers of the couple in emotional issues. This is why they usually offer the newlyweds a religious object, like a rosary or a Bible as a wedding gift. According to an ancient Spanish tradition, the groom must offer his future bride 13 gold coins. If the bride accepts them they will soon be married.

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Wedding Ceremony Checklist

The most beautiful marriage experience for a bride and groom is planning the ceremony. This is the first thing to organize when you’re getting married and this is why you have to take more time to do it properly. Although the religious ceremony is shorter than the party, you have to allocate more time to arrange every single item. The beauty of a ceremony is in the details. Don’t shy from using more personal accents because they will only make your wedding feel more inviting and unique.

In most cases, our experts recommend couples to plan the ceremony with at least a year in advance, just to be able to take care of every single detail. You have two options: to hire a professional planner or to adopt the DIY method. Those who are on a budget might not be able to afford a wedding specialist or stylists to help them decorate the wedding. Even if you don’t have skills for designing your own wedding you can ask for the help of close friends, relatives and family. There are more options for those who want to plan their own wedding.

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: myweddingchecklist.net)

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: myweddingchecklist.net)

The themes are always more personal and original. Our designers often get inspired for their creations and collections from the lifestyle and preferences of modern couples. Besides this, the bride and groom can enjoy this experience together. It can be fun spending more time together before the big day organizing their favorite details. Giving the fact that the ceremony is the romantic part of the wedding, you guys have to make it feel as inviting and warm as possible for you and your guests. There are many things to plan, although the ceremony is simpler and shorter than the reception party.

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: img.ehowcdn.com)

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: img.ehowcdn.com)

This is why you have to download a checklist from the internet to keep track of things easier. If you think the checklists available out there are too complex or too poor for your wedding, make your own. The first thing to add or follow on your checklist is the wedding venue. The location of the ceremony is very important because it can make the ceremony feel more or less romantic, elegant and formal. The vast majority of brides and grooms choose to get married in church. The religious factor is essential for those who are tying the knot.

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: brideorama.com)

Ceremony Checklist Wedding (Source: brideorama.com)

Within the religious ceremony they receive the blessings of God for a new life together in wealth and comfort. A civil ceremony without the religious factor would be just too cold and impersonal. Add meaning to your wedding by choose a church or chapel venue for the ceremony. If you want an outdoors wedding, create an arch to replace the formal church altar.

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Civil Wedding Ceremonies

In some regions, the civil ceremony occurs before the church ceremony. But there are cases when the couple doesn’t want the religious factor in their wedding, so they choose to have just a civil ceremony. In this situation, this type of gathering is rather neutral and formal than personal and meaningful. We recommend all couples – from all corners of the world to get married in a church in order to receive the blessings of God.

Nevertheless, those who don’t have any type of belief usually decide to have a simple ceremony officiated even by one of their friends! Anyway, this is a personal choice and we can’t interfere. The civil ceremony is very simple and short and it is the quickest way to get married. This type of ritual doesn’t have many hard rules to abide, but it is slightly colder and very impersonal. It’s true that there is more flexibility when it comes to following specific etiquettes.

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: eatdrinkchic.com)

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: eatdrinkchic.com)

But there are a few basic lines to respect when getting married in the civil way. Those who are not interested in the having a church ceremony can choose only the civil way. This is also a popular option for newlyweds who come from different cultural and religious backgrounds. Getting married on a neutral ground seems to be the best alternative for them. Another case of choosing only the civil ceremony is when the couple or one of them is at their second marriage. In some countries there are still many etiquettes regarding the fact that the encore bride should not get married again in the church.

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: wedding-in-tuscany.com)

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: wedding-in-tuscany.com)

She is only allowed to get married socially. Some Christian churches allow second marriages, while others choose to respect the old tradition: “what God has joined together, let no man separate”. Civil ceremonies are also selected by those who are having just a small intimate wedding. Many modern couples who are more romantic choose to elope on their wedding and get married in one of their favorite locations. There are also those newlyweds who decide to tie their knots in Las Vegas, where they can benefit of a small civil ceremony.

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: myitalianwedding.co.uk)

Civil Ceremony Wedding (Source: myitalianwedding.co.uk)

There are no etiquettes regarding the place for a civil ceremony. You can choose any venue you like, as neutral as possible. But no one stops you from choosing a ball room, a banquet hall or even a sandy beach shore. There are many options when it comes to these types of ceremonies. If you’re getting married abroad, make sure you check with the country clerk’s office about all the details and licenses required for your ceremony. You can get married by a judge, clerk, public notary, justice of peace or by any other type of wedding officiant.

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Simple Wedding Ceremony

Weddings are known as ample and complex events planned with pomposity and glitter. But not everyone wants the big and fussy wedding. There are always these two options to choose from: the simple and the elaborated wedding. And the truth is that the vast majority of brides and grooms of today prefer the simple and light ceremony in a more casual location. The cozier the ceremony is the happier the couple will be. The important thing is to stay relaxed and feel comfortable on your wedding day and not necessarily to enjoy a pompous setting.

Everything would be in vain if you won’t be able to enjoy and have a good time at the wedding. So, planning a simple commodious ceremony with close friends and family is perhaps the right way to go for those who are not interested in all the fuss and the noise of the big traditional wedding. Simple ceremonies are sometimes called “modern”, while the extravagant ones are rather called traditional. This is not a generally accepted statement but we can understand why those who want a simple and discreet ceremony without the pomp and the elaboration are called modern.

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com)

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com)

Our designers constantly repeat that in order to benefit of the type of elegance promoted nowadays you have to keep things uncomplicated and close to natural. This is why so many newlyweds choose to spend the big day outside the doors, in the middle of the nature. The air is fresh, the grass is green and the sun is naturally warming the space. Stay close to the nature and get inspired by the season when planning the floral arrangements and the decorations and you will be able to plan a simple cheap attractive wedding. This is the secret that many couples use nowadays and they obtain fabulous results.

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: yesbride.com)

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: yesbride.com)

There are many ways to organize a simple ceremony without spending too much and obtain a distinctive effect. You don’t have to cross the line and force yourself to create intricate decorations to captivate the attention of your guests. The uniqueness of a wedding nowadays is in those tiniest things that make the difference. Use simple twists that can add more personality to your event and don’t shy to incorporate more of your favorite accents or details.

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: ideaextensions.com)

Simple Wedding Ceremony (Source: ideaextensions.com)

You can do a unity sand ceremony if you’re on a beach and create more enthusiasm among your guests. Use crafty decorative items that go with the theme you picked for the centerpieces and other important arrangements you need for the ceremony. Group several mini bouquets and create a sophisticated arrangement for your own wear. Use seasonal flowers because they are fresher and cheaper. Keep things creative and you will have more to gain.

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Private Wedding Ceremony

The reasons for planning a small wedding ceremony can be quite various. The most popular one is that the couple is having a wedding on a budget and cannot afford to invite too many people. Secondly, there are those who prefer a quiet ceremony on a private island or anywhere else away from the noise of the city, just the two of them. But whether it’s a ceremony with only close friends & family, whether a small ceremony in two, this type of wedding can be very beautiful if planned right. In general, smaller ceremonies are also more intimate and more relaxed.

You are allowed to celebrate your marriage with only those you care the most for, like your close family and friends. You don’t have to feel obligated to invite all the colleagues, neighbors and people you know they would come to the ceremony if you don’t want that to happen. Besides this, we have to admit that going smaller is an efficient way to cut the wedding costs and save more money for the budget. Private ceremonies are more affordable than the formal ones. Moreover, you can stylize the event the way you want and create beautiful lasting memories for you and your betrothed.

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: media-cdn.tripadvisor.com)

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: media-cdn.tripadvisor.com)

There are also many couples out there who just don’t like big ceremonies and large celebrations. In this case, going private and casual is the best alternative. Who said that you can’t make your big day unique and unforgettable at a smaller scale? Who said that you need a big budget to make it through and create the perfect atmosphere for your guests? Anything is achievable today and none of you should worry about these aspects. Start by creating the guest list. The number of persons that will attend your wedding can dictate the budget to use and the location to choose.

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: cdn.greenweddingshoes.com)

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: cdn.greenweddingshoes.com)

Make it clear about who you don’t want to invite and discuss with your spouse on the most plausible motifs. Make sure to number the parents, the sisters and brothers, the cousins (if you invite them), the grandparents, the bridesmaids and the other bridal party members alongside with the officiant and the special attendants.

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Wedding Private Ceremony (Source: intimateweddings.com)

Try keeping the list short and don’t extend it to create even more obligations you don’t want. Don’t invite a work colleague because you will offend the others. Select the best space for the ceremony based on the guest list: local parks, your parent’s home or your own backyard. Establish the budget and try to keep to it when you’re out there shopping. Private ceremonies can be as formal or informal as you want to! You can throw a special party after the ceremony for those who weren’t invited the first time.

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Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues

Planning the wedding ceremony and reception in the same location is a great way to save more money, time and a lot of energy! Why keep moving around from the ceremony to the reception and create difficulties for your guests when you can pick a more sumptuous venue that can make up for the best backdrop for both the ceremony and the party! There are many unique places out there to explore, so make sure you invest enough time in searching for the perfect deal before making any final decision.

Many modern couples decide to spend the ceremony and reception in the same place or area. It’s way more comfortable this way and also more cost-effective. You can select an indoors place for the ceremony and then go outside for a wild party. Or try the vice versa style, in case you think that your ceremony can be more romantic outside the doors. It depends on how you imagine the perfect wedding for you and your betrothed! Try to stay close to reality while planning your dream wedding.

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: beautifulweddingmemories.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: beautifulweddingmemories.com)

Don’t go over the top and plan an impossible wedding! Keeping things light and simple for your guests is the best way to go if you want to obtain positive remarks and compliments about your wedding. If you have serious money issues and you want to cut the costs drastically, choose a neutral hall for the ceremony and then decorate in a more elegant way for the reception. The room should be bigger so that you have enough space to make all the decorations you want.

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: italiancountrywedding.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: italiancountrywedding.com)

In general, those who decide to get married in a banquet hall are those who don’t want to include the religious factor in their wedding. This is an absurd decision because nothing can be achieved in a marriage without God’s blessing. Anyway, if you don’t want a church ceremony, you can use this simpler impersonal alternative. Instead of going for this strict and cold path, we suggest you plan a simple smaller ceremony in a church and invite only a few of the close family members and friends.

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: blog.babazeka.com)

Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venues (Source: blog.babazeka.com)

Try keeping the guest list short for the reception too. Why plan a big wedding if the budget won’t allow you to do that? You have two choices: either the small, personal and elegant way, either the big and cheap-looking way. There are many couples who want to get over the “I dos” part as quick as possible and this is why they choose to do a shorter ceremony and get on to the fun part. So, it’s not necessary to go for the formal setting and seating. Opt for a standing room ceremony and then set up the tables for the party.

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Wedding Ceremony Music

As many other wedding items, the music played at the ceremony should be very carefully selected. Otherwise you will have to deal with many unpleasant situations. Giving the fact that the music is one of the few things that add to the atmosphere of the wedding, it’s important to make the best selection. The ceremony is supposed to be the most romantic moment of the day and that’s why you have to make it perfect.

The difference between an emotional, awkward and clunky ceremony is given by the music or songs you decide to play. The ceremony can be flowing and relaxing or it can be tight, tense and loud. In general, those who decide to go for the intimate ceremony will choose something more tranquil, light and undertone. The opposite is the nosy music usually played at funky unconventional ceremonies. Although you may care less for this aspect, you should know that music is the transitive between different parts or moments of the ceremony.

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: naomihoffmeyer.com)

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: naomihoffmeyer.com)

Besides this, it plays a big role in highlighting the significance of the day. Religious ceremonies are meaningful and special for the couple than civil ceremonies. This is why those who are getting married in church are usually more precautious with the type of music or melodies they decide to play. Don’t forget that the music will add more to the romanticism of the moment and enhance the deep meaning of the vows. The best thing to do when planning the wedding ceremony music is to try and work close with your musician.

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: redmondmusic.net)

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: redmondmusic.net)

If you don’t have one you can ask for the advice of someone who is more experienced in this filed. Talk with them about the type of music you would like to have and see whether they have something adequate in their song list. Don’t choose something that you don’t feel like it fits you and your personality. Pick only those songs that mean something to you and not just for the sake of tradition. It’s your ceremony and not a formal event you can afford to miss or plan the wrong way.

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: musicwithpanache.com)

Ceremony Music Wedding (Source: musicwithpanache.com)

Pick songs that can help you build long lasting memories and symbols to you and your betrothed. Many newlyweds decide to use melodies that have a special meaning to their relationship. If you want a vocalist or soloist, include him during the interlude. This way you will make the ceremony even more personal and romantic. But before you choose the best musicians for the ceremony, hear them out. Make sure they are ready and well rehearsed for your big day. A bad music performance can ruin your entire day. Don’t hire them without a contract and make sure you have a backup plan.

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Chuppah Wedding Ceremony

The subject of this article can be interesting not only for Jewish couples but also for those who are drawn to this culture and their rituals. The chuppah ceremony is the most symbolic item in a wedding for Jewish people. To help you understand the term of chuppah better we should mention that literally it means a canopy. Nevertheless, this type of setting features four poles and it is a bit more complex than the traditional arch that you are probably more used to.

As we said before, if you are not part of the Jewish cult but you want to use a chuppah for your ceremony, you are free to do so. You don’t even have to choose a Jewish program for the ceremony in order to use these beautiful symbols. The chuppah is usually decorated with a piece if fabric. In most cases, this fabric represents a prayer shawl. This adds even more spiritual meaning to the ceremony to those who are closely related to this religion. The fabric is usually attached to the tops of the poles and it looks like a romantic curtain.

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: blog.karentran.com)

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: blog.karentran.com)

The bride and the groom are the lucky persons to sit under the canopy during the ceremony. We like this type of setting for beach weddings. You can choose any other outdoors location to arrange the chuppah. Anything in the middle of the nature can suit this style perfectly. The chuppah can also be translated as the symbol of the new beginning the newlyweds are starting. The setting is often interpreted as the new home and the family the two newlyweds are now forming. This arrangement also signifies the unity of two persons.

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: 100layercake.com)

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: 100layercake.com)

Nowadays, the chuppah is used as a traditional wedding adornment, as many couples from different cultural backgrounds and regions are choose it for their own ceremony. Back in the old days, this type of decoration served the legal purpose of recognizing the marriage between two Jewish people. Why these types of ceremonies usually take place outside the doors? Well, according to an old Jewish tradition, the wedding should be held in the middle of nature under the open sky because the marriage is particularly dominated by the presence of God and heaven.

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: summithillsfloristnj.com)

Chuppah Wedding Ceremony (Source: summithillsfloristnj.com)

This is the most traditional and popular belief assigned to the chuppah ceremony. We don’t know how many modern couples still care for this belief or decide to respect it at their wedding. But we know for certain that there are no more limits on how a modern couple should design their own chuppah. You are free to use any type of fabric or texture and embellish for the poles. The chuppah is nowadays regarded as a beautiful centerpiece of the ceremony.

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Wedding Lei Ceremony

Deciding on a Hawaiian wedding ceremony can be a very exciting experience, especially for those who are in love with the Hawaiian culture and wedding customs. We’ve always thought that exotic weddings are more romantic, adventurous and memorable. The couple and the guests can enjoy some unforgettable days in a tropical region and cherish those moments for the rest of their lives. The Hawaiian ceremony is very special and unique because there are many interesting customs involved.

The lei exchange is one of them and we are happy to share more info with those who are interested in this subject. The leis ceremony occurs at the very beginning of the wedding, when the bride and the groom give each other leis of flowers. These decorations have many meanings as they are very symbolic to the couple. Just like the wedding rings, the leis follow an unbroken circle shape which signifies the eternal commitment, love and devotion the bride and groom will share.

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: theweddingcafe.net)

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: theweddingcafe.net)

Your hearts will now be united and the leis have the power and the beauty to enhance this meaning. The lei exchanging ceremony is traditional for people in Hawaii, but this custom is so beloved by our modern couples that many of them decide to adopt it for their own local beach wedding. There is no better way to add more exoticism and uniqueness to a simple beach ceremony than by following this romantic ritual. Even if you’re having an off island wedding you can choose to play this custom. Your guests will love the idea!

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: perfectmauiwedding.com)

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: perfectmauiwedding.com)

The flowers incorporated in the leis are also meant to signify something special or relevant for the ceremony and marriage. Each individual bloom woven into the lei features a certain meaning that doesn’t lose its beauty when blended into the circle. The contrary, the flowers become even more beautiful together. The ceremony of leis exchanging also signifies the ability of carrying, supporting, respecting and honoring each other over time. To make sure your lei look like a real lei, add no less than 50 flowers to a string.

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: 100layercake.com)

Wedding Lei Ceremony (Source: 100layercake.com)

You have to obtain a necklace design, intricately adorned with different flowers. If you want smaller leis, use twenty blooms. According to an old Hawaiian tradition, the bride was meant to give the lei to her groom before he proposed. This used to show a woman’s interest to a man. This custom is nowadays part of the real wedding. Right after the father walks his daughter down the aisle the bride gives her lei to the groom. We love traditional customs that play both a functional and symbolical role in a wedding. The guests and the priest also make wear leis as a symbol of a festive celebration.

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