Above the knee lengths that are known as Karen Millen dresses

This is very popular now, and before you go running for cover, the military trend does not involve dressing up in an army uniform in the same way that little boys would love! The military trend is all about tailored clothing, particularly the jackets. Olive greens, khaki colours and desert yellows are all appropriate colours to pull-off this trend. Choose longer style grey prom dresses with a camouflage pattern in order to strike a balance between young and old Considered as cheap evening dresses, you can find them at all sales and discount stores. In fact, if you have an old long gown with you, you may alter its length and make it your own cocktail dress. These lengths vary in accordance to changing fashion trends and styles.

cocktail dress

By way of colour this season, purple is very popular as are camel colours and reds. Given that the Royal Wedding is just around the corner purple will prove a very regal colour in which to celebrate this momentous occasion. We have seen the layering of fabrics frequently on catwalks around the world of late in particular the use of sheer materials over a non-sheer base.The most common style is till the knee length. Some are also available in just above the knee lengths that are known as Karen Millen dresses However, there are the low type cocktail dresses too that would run down to around two inches above your ankle called the ballerina length type. This type is usually considered as the traditional evening gown, and is liked by almost all women.To add a spark to your feminine style, these comes in many different types of fabrics for example satin, flowing silk, chiffon, etc. It is up to you to select which dress would you feel comfortable and beautiful in. So choose the one that suits your personality, and select the color that goes with your skin tone so that you stand out from the rest.

 karen millen wedding dresses in such a design will prove perfect as they cover modesty and yet are exceptionally fashionable most young girls will love these dresses. Cocktail dressesare all time favorite, when it comes to informal parties, proms and other special occasions. With a classic chic style to match your personality and individual style, these cocktail dresses comes in different colors, styles and sizes. Thus, you have a wide range to choose from the one that you like the best.

A Guide to the Perfect Party Dress

Finding the perfect party dress can be challenging, and depending on the occasion, you may risk looking over or under dressed. With styles ranging from the classic shift to the colour block bodycon, it is evident there are more than enough styles to choose from. This guide will help you decide upon which party dress would suit you best.

party dress

Bodycon

The bodycon is a seductive, figure hugging dress that shows off your womanly shape and accentuates your best features. Bodycons have become increasingly popular over the past few years which work hand in hand with the ‘colour blocking' trend. This design is usually worn by the younger generation as it is great for night clubbing with your friends or for a hot date.

Shift

The shift dress is suitable for all shapes and sizes due to its loose fitted design. The shift frock often has a structured, high neck line and differs from thick straps to long sleeves. This figure skimming style is often worn on its own without any other statement pieces or with a pair of tights or leggings. This is an ideal shape to wear for a meal as your tummy bulge will be disguised by the loose fit style.

Baby doll

The baby doll style was originally an item of ladies nightwear but it has now been transformed into evening wear too. It is often made from sheer fabrics that are light and usually feature lace and ruffled trims for extra detail. The elegant design boasts a moulded bust area for a spectacular cleavage and is often available in pastel and neutral shades to promote an innocent, girly look. The baby doll can make a lovely party dress to help show off your femininity.

Cocktail 

Cocktail styles are often fitted towards the top, similar to a Basque style, and they usually feature an A-line skirt design. Ball dresses are better suited for more formal events such as proms and special birthday parties; this is usually due to the flamboyancy of the frock in comparison to other dresses. A cocktail design is great for all shapes and sizes as the upper flatters and showcases your waist whilst the skirt disguises any unwanted bulges.

Picking your perfect party dress is a difficult choice to make, but with such a varied selection of styles to choose from, you are sure to find something to suit each event you are invited to.

Show Your Thankfulness to Bridesmaids In 8 Special ways

Your wedding will never be complete without the presence and the help of your bridesmaids. Thanking your bridesmaids is a thoughtful gesture to show your appreciation for having been part of your very special day. There are 8 special ways that you can do to express your gratitude to all of them. Here they are:

bridesmaid dresses

1. Publicly thank your bridesmaids right on your wedding day. This a customary practice as part of the wedding program. So if you want to acknowledge your bridesmaids one by one by requesting them to be seen at the center stage once again, your program at the reception is the best time to insert this number. They would love to be shown off in front of your guests while they look at their best on this day.

2. Individually thanking them in private is a very intimate way. By facing them in one-on-one, you can directly express your gratitude straight from your heart to theirs. This can be accompanied with a tight bear hug to really let them feel how truly you are thankful of their participation.

3. Along with your private or public proclamation of your thanks, you can opt to give them some adorable gifts, like uniform pearl bracelet gifts. This will serve as a lovely reminder to them of your appreciation everytime they use it.

4. A spa treatment. Every woman's desire to be treated as a VIP. A few hours of spa treatment can give them this ultimate relaxation they want. So for just a short period of time, give them the chance to retire at a spa.

5. Ladies like to have some changes on their looks from time to time. Help them boost their confidence by having a make over in a beauty salon. Have their hair colored, their eyebrows shaped, or their lashes extended. This maybe is once in a lifetime moment so indulge them in this experience.

6. May your bridesmaids be a solo or with partner, you can set them a dinner date at a fancy restaurant or a movie theater for two. Be the one to initiate a spark of love in them for a potential partner for life.

7. Your guests would love to see their faces on a popular magazine. Have their photos published at one edition and give each of them a copy of this magazine. Seeing their faces on it can make them feel famous.

8. A weekend adventure vacation is another way to thank your bridesmaids. Let them loose for a while after a stressful time at work. They will surely be refreshed to start a new beginning after having been excited with your treat.

These ways of thanking your bridesmaids are perfectly awesome that they will for sure not forget. Any of the ways you choose are fun and exciting. So depending on your budget, pick the one that you think they deserve to be rewarded of for helping you make your dream wedding come true.

7 Things Should Be Known by Every Bridesmaid

If you've been asked by the bride to be one of her bridesmaids ( purchase prom gowns ), you'll want to know how to fulfill your duties to support her and make her day go like a dream.


Here are 7 tips for the perfect wedding day:

Bridesmaid Dresses

1. The bridesmaids' dress shopping day


You need to find this out in advance, because you need to keep that day free.
If you have it already written in your diary, it will save stress and make the day a lot more fun and worry-free.
It is a good idea to make sure that you are not fussy on the actual shopping day, and to ease this it will be helpful if you sit and discuss the kind of things you all want to wear before leaving the house.
If the bridesmaids are of different sizes, say plus size or petite, it is important to find a style which suits everyone, or perhaps agree on buying fabric and going to a dressmaker who can tailor the dress to each individual.

2. What sort of hairstyle the bride wants you to have


It is very important to work this one out, because the bride will probably want you all to look uniform, and you need to know this in advance, so you can practice the style.
For example, if your bride wants you all to have a 60's style beehive for the wedding, this will need a huge amount of preparation and attention.
You may want to also work out whether or not all the bridesmaids will get together on the day and do each other's hairstyles.

3. What kind of shoes to wear


As well as choosing dresses, you will want to make sure that shoes are almost matching too.
Given the amount that has been spent on your bridesmaid's dress, make sure that the shoes are nice, and perhaps you should get together with the other bridesmaids for another shopping day.
You can get some nice satin pumps for a relatively cheap price, and these will look great with any outfit.

4. Whether or not you need to help out with any other part of the wedding


It is your job as a bridesmaid to lift the stress out of the day for the bride, so make sure that she is happy throughout the day, and not worrying too much.
Every wedding is unique, so there may be an odd job that the bride can give you to worry about on the day, whether that is to help the photographer find certain members of the family for photos or help the bride out with her make-up.

5. Where you need to be on the big day, and at what time


This is of prime importance. The bride will probably want your help in the morning, so ask what time you ought to arrive.
You may want to think about the whole timing of the day so you can get an overview of how things should be running, and therefore you can be more helpful

6. Church procession - the line up


This is important to help the day run smoothly, and you should find this out at a run-through before the wedding day.
Some of you may walk down individually, and some may walk with one of the best men.
It is also important that you find out how you should be walking down the aisle and also to practice the pace of your steps (it's easy to walk far too fast). If you are walking with someone else, rehearse walking in step with one another.
If you are having flower girls or pageboys, a rehearsal will help them to know what is expected and help them to feel less nervous.

7. How the bride visualizes the wedding, and your role in it


The bride will have certain expectations of you on the lead up to the wedding and on the actual day.
It is strongly recommended that you go out for a coffee soon after you've been asked to be bridesmaid and discuss this, as this eases stress and avoids disappointment and helps to clarify what is expected of everyone.
The bride will have a better wedding day as a result, and you will feel as though you have really helped her in that.
Make sure as well that you distinguish your role from that of the maid of honor, as she may well have a more involved role in the actual ceremony.
Finally - have a great day - keep smiling throughout and enjoy relaxing with your feet up once it's all over!

Wynonna Judd Wedding #3: The Dress Revealed

Wynonna took her third trip down the aisle (with no shoes) to marry drummer, Cactus Moser, as the sun set on her farm in Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee. Moser is the drummer in Judd’s band, The Big Noise.

flora dresses

She wore a Houri Barahimi dress, and her groom was “cowboy chic in his tuxedo,” according to Us Weekly. Judd chose a flora gown with beautiful lace sleeves, and she looked great!

The couple has been together since 2009.

Congratulations, Wynonna & Cactus!

Revealed: Kate Middleton’s Hair Secrets

The secret behind Kate Middleton’s signature tresses? 

Three blowouts a week at her neighborhood London salon. For 
more details on what keeps the Duchess of Cambridge’s hair 
picture-perfect (and how to get those sleek locks for 
yourself), head over to our sister site, The Blush.

Honeymoon Planning: 10 Ways to Zap Honeymoon Stress

Regardless of what cloud you're on after the wedding, the unpredictable nature of traveling and uninterrupted "together time" on your honeymoon(wedding dress 2012) can take its toll. What can go wrong drinking margaritas on the beach for a week, you ask? Silly, avoidable stuff, mostly. Here are 10 tips to keep moods in check.

gowns for debut

1. Plan Ahead
The best way to avoid stress during your trip is to take some preliminary planning steps before you leave: sketch out the trip together (so each of your interests are addressed), agree to a budget before you leave, and read our honeymoon countdown to cover all the bases.

2. Ease In
Try to avoid leaving for the honeymoon immediately after the reception. Instead, check into the honeymoon suite of a local hotel for your wedding night, catch some ZZZs, and get a fresh start the next morning.
It's also smart to declare at least the first few days of your trip off-limits for sightseeing. Why? These first few days are crucial to setting the tone of your trip. Catching up on your sleep first (without guilt for a change!) can help you fully appreciate and max out the rest of your days. If you're not a relaxer by nature, force yourself to slow down by starting your vacation on the beach or in the countryside, and then tackling a big city.

3. Be Healthy
You've just run your body ragged for months on end. It's no wonder that sleepless nights, a diet of junk food and stress, an emotional wedding, too much drinking, and jet lag combine to make your body crash -- you finally have time! Physically and mentally, you'll likely be very fragile; don't be surprised if you feel unusually tired or if tempers flare during the first few days of your trip. Speed your recovery -- and save the rest of your trip -- by balancing your time at the bar and in bed. (Knot Note: Bring along a bottle of water on excursions so you don't get dehydrated and cranky.)

4. Respect Each Other's Interests
You want to shop; he wants to learn how to surf. No problem: Divvy up the day. You watch him swallow seawater all morning, he window shops with you in the afternoon. Don't battle, balance!

5. Respect Each Other's Limits
It's the end of the day and he's tired, you're wired. An important rule of happy travel is: Don't push. Allow each other to relax and recoup in your own way. If he tuckers out, call it a day or do your own thing. (Yes, splitting up for a few hours is allowed -- even encouraged! -- on your honeymoon.) Scout out a place for dinner, read by the pool, or jog along the beach. Your reunion will be all the sweeter.

6. Don't Overplan Your Days
This can be tough, especially if you've flown halfway around the world to soak up a cultural hot spot. Avoid the temptation to do and see everything -- and the regret you might feel if you don't -- by choosing a honeymoon destination where there's just enough to do in the time you have allotted. Once there, don't assign every day a long to-do list. You've just spent months overtaxing your system with work and wedding planning -- this is your chance to chill. Having to do something or be somewhere every minute will fray your nuptial nerves in no time.

7. Take Breaks
Build downtime into your days, especially if it's hot outside. Take lots of breaks for a pint of beer or cafe au lait and people watching. It's a great opportunity to adjust your plans, read up on the next thing you're doing, write in your journal, meet the locals, and simply absorb a destination's ambience.


8. Follow Your Nose
Try to loosen the reins of control on your honeymoon. True, you've just finished micro-managing your big day, but traveling is a different animal. The memorable parts of a trip are often found when you let serendipity be your leader: a little boutique off the tourist-beaten path, a bakery hidden around a corner, a sudden change of plans from a formal dinner to a jazz cruise. Stay loose and swing your mind's door open to suggestion.

9. Speak Up
Nip petty arguments and testy conversations in the bud right away. On your honeymoon, time is precious. Don't let a day -- even an hour -- be wasted bickering or not speaking because this is not just another day in hometown, America. This is a day in Paris, or Hawaii, or Thailand. You're paying a lot for this day! Be the bigger person and extend the olive branch first. If your new spouse insists on stewing, take a break and don't let it ruin your trip. He or she will come around.
Likewise, if your vision of the perfect trip starts to derail, don't be shy about tweaking its course. Again, time is of the essence; the trip will be over before you know it. If, for example, you meet another couple and friendly hubby keeps inviting them to do everything with the two of you, gently put the kabosh on your new full-time foursome. Don't let peer pressure or "trying to be nice" gobble up your honeymoon.

10. Be Patient
The honeymoon is a transition time for both of you: you're tired, you're relieved, you may be nervous (after all, you just tied a permanent knot), and suddenly, after a year of planning, you suddenly have all this free time on your hands. Believe it or not, post-wedding blues can come into play. Be patient with each other: The honeymoon is the fun part, but each person likely has other emotional issues stirring under the surface. Don't be surprised if this manifests itself in mysterious ways.

Honeymoon Countdown: Honeymoon Planning Timeline

Ready, set, relax! Ahhh, the honeymoon(wedding dress 2012). Your hard-earned reward for months of stressful wedding planning. The only catch? You have to plan that, too! Here's our guide to pulling off a glitch-free honeymoon.

gowns for debut

Six Months or More Ahead
Set a budget.
Start trading honeymoon fantasies. Where do you want to go? What do you want to do? Bat around destination possibilities, troll the Internet, talk to your travel agent, and poll friends for ideas.
If you're planning a destination wedding, get the ball rolling on paperwork and/or contact a wedding planner who specializes in destination weddings.
Find a travel agent (if you don't already have one) who specializes in your destination, activity (an adventure honeymoon tour or scuba trip, for example), or mode of transportation (a cruise specialist, say).
If the price tag for your dream trip is off the charts, brainstorm ways to save money. Investigate what your frequent flyer point balance can buy you and/or research honeymoon registry options with tour operators, travel agents, and on the Internet.
Book your tickets, get seat assignments, order special in-flight meals, and check luggage allowances (you'll need these for buying -- or registering for -- luggage later), especially if you're carting skis or scuba gear. If you hope to cash in frequent flyer miles for a trip or upgrade, purchase or transfer points (if necessary) and make your ticket request from the airline as soon as possible.
Research hotels, check room availability, and reserve a room.
Reserve a rental car.
If you're traveling abroad -- and feeling ambitious -- sign up for a foreign-language class or buy a language course on tape and start practicing at home or on your way to work.
Ask your travel agent or visit the CDC Travelers' Health Site to check whether certain vaccinations are recommended or required before visiting your destination. (Some programs need to start months in advance of your trip.)

Three Months Ahead
Obtain your passports and visas, if necessary.
Consider signing up for travel insurance if one of the following apply: one of you has health issues; you're concerned about your safety; or the weather threatens to wreak havoc on your honeymoon (hurricane season, for example). Research travel insurance coverage offered by your credit cards, travel agent, or an independent agency; secure additional coverage for your specific concerns if necessary.

Two Months Ahead
Buy a camera and luggage -- or register for them before your bridal shower! Practice using your camera and be sure to develop a few rolls to make sure it's working properly.
Research and book tours, theater tickets, hot restaurant seats, and any other activities that require advance reservations -- earlier if you're traveling during peak season -- through your travel agent or soon-to-be hotel concierge (get their name and tip them when you arrive).
Get certified to scuba dive or begin lessons for any other activity you hope to pursue on your trip.


One Month Ahead
Make a packing and shopping list.
Reconfirm all reservations.
Make kennel reservations or contact your house or cat sitter to make sure they're available.
For those brides-to-be on the Pill: If you want to postpone your period because it overlaps with your honeymoon, talk to your gynecologist about skipping the placebo round (and starting the next cycle right away), thus "skipping" your period for that month (perfectly safe). Make sure you have plenty of pills on hand or order more, if needed.

Two Weeks Ahead
Pick up airline tickets and all applicable vouchers from your travel agent. Read all material carefully to make sure the information is correct. If not, your travel agent can correct it.
Buy travelers' checks; stow numbers someplace safe in case they're lost or stolen.
Exchange about $50 (or at least enough to get you to your hotel from the airport) into small bills in the currency of the country you'll be visiting. There is usually an exchange counter or ATM at the airport, but it can be nice to have cash in hand (it will also help you get used to the exchange rate so it doesn't just feel like "meaningless" Monopoly money).

One Week Ahead
Arrange to have mail held at the post office during your trip.
Stop newspaper delivery.
Make two to three sets of photocopies of your passport, credit cards, insurance, traveler check numbers, wills -- basically any paperwork people would need if your wallet were stolen or something happened to you. (I know, but you have to be prepared.) Give one set each to a parent and/or a relative or friend, pack one set in your luggage, and leave one set in your safe deposit box.
If your guidebook weighs a ton, make copies of relevant pages (who needs the hotel section now?) and have them bound at your local copy shop.
Ask stores where you've registered to hold orders so gifts don't pile up on your doorstep, or ask a relative to collect packages.
Set out clothes to pack; buy what you need.
Make sure you have extras of everything you can't live without: migraine tablets, allergy pills, asthma inhaler, glasses or contacts, etc. Carry all medications in their original prescription bottles to avoid questions at customs.
Touch base with your house or cat sitter to reconfirm when they'll be coming over, hand over the keys, give them a copy of the vet's number and your contact info, etc.

Three Days Ahead
Reconfirm overseas flights.
Order champagne to be awaiting you in your hotel room.
Buy books and magazines for the trip.
Transfer the addresses of friends to whom you'll want to send postcards plus important phone numbers (house/cat sitter, doctor) into a little travel-sized notebook or journal.
Make arrangements for your rides to and from the airport.
Leave a copy of your itinerary and a set of house keys with a relative or close friend in case of emergency.
Check weather forecasts for your destination.
Change your voicemail and e-mail messages at work.
Prepare your house or apartment for your departure -- eat or dispose of perishable food, water plants, set timers, etc.

One Day Ahead
Reconfirm flights.
Make sure your luggage (carry-on and checked) is labeled both on the outside and inside with your name, hotel address, and phone number.

Europe: Italy - Florence | Michelangelo, Botticelli & Gelato

Florence's narrow, noisy streets and stony facades belie its claim to fame: This is the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to many of world's most famous paintings and statues. If Florence is your starting point for a tour of Tuscany, take a few days to explore this bustling city's mind-boggling collection of artistic genius and stunning cathedrals.
In A Word: Art

flora dress

Masterpieces abound here in all their original glory: Michelangelo's statues of Bacchus and David, Cellini's statue of Perseus beheading Medusa, Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus," Titian's "The Venus of Urbino," and more. The world-renowned Uffizi Gallery is a must-see, but art is everywhere: in the chapels hidden inside the Santa Maria Novella and Santa Maria del Carmine churches, and in the statue garden outside the Palazzo Vecchio, where you'll find Ammannati's Neptune Fountain.
before you go: need-to-know info
Entry requirements: Passport
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro
Flight time: 10 hrs from NYC, 14 hrs from LA, 14 hrs from Dallas
Hotel tax and service charge: 10% (often included in rates)
Tipping: 15% - 20% if not included
Getting around: Bus, taxi
Inspiration: Buy a beret and watch the movie A Room With A View
Notes: Many restaurants may be closed from Christmas through the first week in January and for much of August; if hotels have no 800 reservation number, fax (instead of calling) for information and confirmations
More info: Italian Tourism Board
Why We'd Go: Six Features You'll Never Forget

Cathedrals: The immense and magnificently detailed Santa Maria del Fiore Duomo (cathedral) will literally take your breath away. Climb more than 460 steps past Vasari's rich "Last Judgment" frescoes for an excellent birds-eye view of the city. Don't miss the resplendent east doors -- called the "Gate of Paradise" -- of the nearby Baptistery: Lorenzo Ghiberti needed 28 years to complete them.
Tombs: Visit the Gothic church of Santa Croce to see the elaborate tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and the great humanist Leonardo Bruni. Machiavelli was also buried here. Medici tombs by Michelangelo can be found at the lavish San Lorenzo church.
Palaces: Palazzos are everywhere in this concentrated treasure chest of a city, but some of the best include the Palazzo Vecchio (with its famous sculpture garden), the ornate Palazzo Rucellai, and the Medici's massive must-see Palazzo Pitti.
Gardens: The Vittolone, an avenue of cypress trees planted in 1637 that splits the sprawling, statue-filled Boboli Gardens near Palazzo Pitti, is the perfect spot to soak up peaceful green vistas. Have a snack at the outdoor Kaffeehaus to soothe your overstimulated intellects.
Gelato: You'll experience ice-cream ecstasy at Bar Vivoli Gelateria near the Santa Croce church. A week's worth of rich, creamy, intense flavors will keep you screaming for more.
Shopping: Cross the Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge, built in 1345 -- the only bridge to escape destruction during World War II -- to shop for new and antique jewelry. Troll for leather goods at the Mercato di San Lorenzo or nearby Mercato Centrale.
When To Go: Florence At Its Best

Best weather: April to June, September, and October. July and August are hottest and most humid. Tourism swells from May through September.
Best prices: Winter and August.
Festival highlights: Maggio Musicale, the city's major arts festival, takes place from May through early June; the Calcio in Costume -- Soccer in Costume -- is an annual competition held in June among four teams, each representing a medieval district of the city; a fireworks display marks midsummer and the feast of John the Baptist, Florence's patron saint, on June 24.

Europe: Italy - Choosing Your Slice of Heaven

The birthplace of the phrase la dolce vita (the sweet life), Italy intoxicates all who enter. So the question is not why you should go, but where in this country of art, ancient history, ethereal vistas, toe-curling cuisine, and abundant wine (Italy leads the world with four million acres of vineyards), is the ideal destination for your honeymoon(flora dresses)? (Don't worry, anniversaries are made for return visits.) Read on for a sensory tour of the best regions and cities to help you decide.

debut dress 2012

Milan & Lombardy
Biggest Draw: Shopping
Location: North-central Italy; borders Switzerland
Milan, in the Lombardy region, is the epicenter of Italian design. Fashionistas can shop the boutique-lined streets 'til they drop in a heap of shopping bags from Giorgio Armani, Gianfranco Ferre, Moschino, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, and Ferragamo. But wait: There's more to this city and region than fitting rooms. Milan boasts the third largest cathedral in Europe (with 135 spires), a legendary opera house (La Scala), and da Vinci's Last Supper. Go for small-scale charm at the nearby art cities of Bergamo, Cremona (known for violin craftwork), and Mantua (birthplace of the poet Virgil); purify your spending heart with the natural beauty of the lakes Garda, Como, and Maggiore.

The Dolmite Alps & South Tyrol
Biggest Draws: Skiing, spas
Location: Northeast Italy; borders Austria
Weiner schnitzel, anyone? From the German you'll hear on the streets to the chalet architecture and fusion cuisine, you'll soon see that Austrian culture runs deep in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. No wonder: The province around the city of Bolzano was called South Tyrol until it was annexed to Italy in 1919. Come here to be active (shushing down snowy slopes) and passive (zoning out for a spa treatment). The chic ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo offers dizzying views of the beautiful snow-capped Dolomites and year-round outdoor sport. Merano (once the capital of Austria) is known for the medicinal Merano grape and radioactive waters, reputed to cure whatever ails you.

Venice & The Veneto
Biggest Draws: Architecture, romance
Location: Northeast Italy; bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east
The region of Veneto contains the magical city of Venice. Here you'll find storybook palace architecture, labyrinthine streets (the city is blissfully car- and traffic-free), and the legendary gondola-filled canals. The whimsical islands of Murano (famous for glass making) and Burano (a colorful fishing village known for lace making) are just a vaporetto ride away. Venture out of Venice to visit Verona -- setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and home of the Arena, one of the largest amphitheaters of the ancient world and a hotspot for the star-gazing, opera-loving set -- or the university town of Padua.

Bologna
Biggest Draw: Food
Location: Nestled between Lombardy and Tuscany
Gastronomic gadflies flock to the Emilia-Romagna region, of which Bologna is the capital city, to taste Italian standards at their source: tortellini, lasagna, fettuccine, tagliatelle, and mortadella. When you're not licking your lips, feast your eyes on the medieval architecture, art, and churches in Bologna; the Byzantine city of Ravenna; Faenza (home of majolica, a rich hand-painted glazed earthenware); Modena (opera star Pavarotti's hometown); and Parma (to which we owe thanks for Parmesan cheese and prosciutto).

The Italian Riviera
Biggest Draw: Seaside chic
Location: Western coast of Italy from the French border to the town of La Spezia
This is the rugged coastline you've ogled in sexy espionage movies, where the hero hugs coastal curves in his lipstick-red Lamborghini. The blossom-blessed Western Riviera, called the Riviera di Ponente, stretches from the French border south to Genoa, and the Riviera di Levante, or Eastern Riviera, from Genoa south to La Spezia. The "western" section includes the Vegas-esque San Remo and capital city of Genoa, Italy's premier port and hometown of Christopher Columbus. The "eastern" section is most alluring, where seaside resort towns and medieval ports such as Rapallo, Portofino (hot with the yachting set), Santa Margherita Ligure, and the rustic town of Cinque Terre dot the coast.

Tuscansy & Umbria
Biggest Draws: Pastoral vistas, medieval towns
Location: Central Italy
Visit the sunny hills of Tuscany and Umbria and you'll understand why the Renaissance flourished here: you'll feel like you're walking through a painting. Cypress and olive trees dot sunny hills and a patchwork pattern of vineyards, including the famous Chianti region, stretch into the distance. Medieval scene stealers include the sienna-hued city of Siena, tower-filled San Gimignano, Perugia (capital of Umbria and home of Perugina chocolate), Assisi (home of the lovely Basilica di San Francesco, a church dedicated to St. Francis, protector of small animals and birds), the spa town of Montecatini Terme, Lucca (known for its olive oil), and Spoleto (an enchanting city that hosts a world-renowned annual arts fest).


Florence
Biggest Draw: Art
Location: Heart of Tuscany
The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence induces a wonderful art coma. Come here to see statues, paintings, staircases, frescoes, crypts, and domes by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, Brunelleschi, and Botticelli. The intrigue continues: Florence was the stomping ground of both the infamously evil Machiavelli and insanely rich Medici families. Must-see sights are numerous, and include the world-renowned Uffizi art gallery, Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace), and monstrous Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (known as Il Duomo).

Rome
Biggest Draws: History, legend
Location: Central Italy south of Tuscany
Capital of the ancient empire, Rome has witnessed the history of the civilized world. Once the site of passionate extremes -- orgies, carnage, feasts -- it is the city of myth and uncountable firsts. It contains more artistic monuments than any other city in the world, including the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City (don't miss mass at St. Peter's), the Roman Forum, the (original!) Coliseum, and the ruins of Ostia Antica, the unearthed port of Ancient Rome.

Alamfi Coast & Capri
Biggest Draws: Mythical cities, glorious sun
Location: Southwest coast of Italy
Life is good in the dreamy region of Campania, where you can spend your days sipping the requisite limoncello (alcohol-infused lemonade) and gazing at the twinkling sea. This region combines history and hedonistic pleasure via legendary ruins (Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Paestum, which includes the Temple of Neptune, one of the best preserved Greek temples in the world); the lush, tourist-happy islands of Capri and Ischia (known for its health spas and thermal springs); the city of Naples; and the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, which includes the towns of Sorrento (where mythical Greek Sirens beckon from its high cliffs), romantic Positano, and Ravello (a charming haven where D.H. Lawrence wrote Lady Chatterly's Lover).

Sicily
Biggest Draws: Wine, ruins
Location: An island off the southwestern tip of Italy
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a stunner, blending many different cultures and architectural styles. Its biggest draws are ruins such as the beautiful Valley of the Temples, Segesta, and Selinunte; active volcanoes such as Mt. Etna (the tallest active volcano in Europe) and Gran Cratere (believed to be the gateway to Hades) on the Aeolian island of Vulcano; and the lush city of Taormina. It's no surprise that fresh fish and gelati (Italian ice cream) are art forms here, but you may be tickled to know that there are more vineyards here than in any other region of the country. Salute!

Honeymoon Planning: On Your Way

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We went straight to the source -- newlyweds -- to get the best, most valuable honeymoon planning advice.
"Go somewhere that doesn't take a day out of your honeymoon just to get there. You are too exhausted from the night before to be sitting in an airport or on a plane for seven hours."
-- Jackie and Cole

Wedding: November 6
7 days in Mexico
"If you're traveling around a lot by train, as we did in Western Europe, plan to stay in a first-class couchette one night -- you'll get traveling out of the way while you're sleeping."
-- Samantha and Craig
Wedding: August 14

10 days in Europe
"Set aside more money than you think you will need -- and splurge. I regret not getting the couple's massage on the beach because I thought it was too expensive. You only get to go on one honeymoon, so enjoy yourselves!"
-- Colin and Danielle

Wedding: October 11 
10 days in Hawaii
"You'll want to buy at least one travel guide to take with you, but also try to get more perspective on your destination. One Saturday we went to Barnes & Noble and read everything there was to read about Tahiti. We eventually bought a book -- but we had a much broader knowledge from all that free research."
-- Carol and Erik

Wedding: April 24
3 weeks in Tahiti
"Bring a video camera (even if you have to borrow it from a friend or
relative) -- and take pictures of everything! We took a video of the sites and beautiful landscapes, but we also took pictures of all sorts of silly things, like cooking dinner in sombreros, eating breakfast with goggles on, trying to walk with fins on sand, and singing in the shower -- and we love to sit down and watch it! It really brings us back."
-- M-E and Travis


Wedding: July 5
2 1/2 weeks in Baja, Mexico
"Charge all your bills to one rewards program. We flew to Hong Kong with tickets purchased by redeeming our American Express points. Our tickets from New York to Hong Kong cost very little!"
-- Angie and Ivan


Wedding: April 10
3 weeks in Hong Kong, Maldives, and Thailand
"The must-visit Internet site for foodie travelers is Chowhound.com. Before our trip to Hawaii, we searched the site and got amazing restaurant recommendations."
-- Allison and Brad

Wedding: October 15
7 days on Kauai
"Be sure to check with your resort regarding the dress code for restaurants -- some restaurants may require a sports jacket and tie for dining. You don't want to miss out on a great meal because you aren't dressed properly."
-- Nicole and Joseph


Wedding: May 22
8 days in Aruba
"On cruise ships, book a top-deck room with a balcony. The top decks have the longest balconies, the ones you can stretch out the sun chairs on. Top deck and balcony don't necessarily mean pricey suite-there are other upgraded rooms there."
-- Hannah and Sam


Wedding: September 17
7-day Caribbean cruise
"Upgrade to first class at the airport if you can. Let the gate agent know you're interested, and if there's room they'll slot you in. The savings of doing it on-site are immense. It's also a very special treat when you get upgraded at the last minute." Knot Note: If you travel during high season, an airport upgrade may not be possible.
-- Brent and Kristi

Wedding: August 14
16 days on Maui
"The message boards on Frommers.com and Fodors.com came in handy. There was always someone there who had been to our destination and could help with first hand knowledge of resorts, flights, and best times to travel."
-- Nicole and Michael

Wedding: August 27
7 days in Costa Rica
"You don't have to book top-of-the-line hotels for the entire time. We went to both Spain and France -- in Barcelona we stayed in a middle-of-the-road hotel so that when we vacationed in the South of France we could stay somewhere fabulous!"
--Adryana and Patrick


Wedding: September 13
3 weeks in South of France and Spain
"If you have your heart set on a Caribbean honeymoon (or somewhere else that's seasonally affected), you might want to keep that in mind when you pick your wedding date. We married in the middle of its hurricane season, so we decided against the Caribbean mainly because we didn't want to risk it."
-- Heather and John
Wedding: September 18
7 days in San Francisco, CA

Honeymoon Planning: How to Avoid Honeymoon Mishaps

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Every pair of newlyweds deserves a perfect honeymoon(gowns for debut), but sometimes the fates just do not cooperate. Here's how to handle some common honeymoon mishaps -- or avoid the trouble altogether!

You Lose Your Passport
Before you travel, make copies of your passport. Leave one copy in your room, keep one in your pocket, and give another to a friend or family member at home. You won't be able to leave the country without an actual passport, but a copy might make getting a new one a lot smoother.
If your passport is lost or stolen, go to the US Consulate as soon as possible (find one at usembassy.state.gov).

You Get Sick
Falling ill in a foreign country can be scary. If you're seriously sick, don't hesitate to go to the hospital; your hotel should be able to get help the quickest. If you don't need emergency treatment but could still use some meds, use a guidebook to translate and write down your symptoms, and then head to a pharmacy. Hand the paper to the pharmacist -- you don't want to take a chance mispronouncing your maladies.
If you're traveling to an exotic locale, lessen the chances of getting sick by obtaining the appropriate vaccinations and medications. Before you go, research recommended vaccinations through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov/travel) and visit your doctor two months in advance to get the right meds.

You Get Lost
If you're in a city and you've lost your way, don't panic. Your best bet is to look for or ask directions to a major road. A city's mass transit usually runs along busier streets, so if you can't spot a subway or metro stop, just wait for a city bus to drive by. Take it to the next stop and check the bus map to get your bearings and find your way.

You Miss Your Flight Home
An extra day's vacation isn't always a blessing. If you've missed your flight, talk to an airline representative right away and call your hotel to put a room on hold in case you won't be able to fly out that day. If your flight was canceled and you find yourself in line with everyone else who was supposed to be on your plane, the airlines may pay for your room (but you probably won't get to pick where you stay), but you should reserve a room at your hotel just in case to guarantee you won't be stranded.

Bridal Shower Theme: Eco-Friendly Fete

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What it is: A shower that’s good for the environment. Consider hosting your soiree in a garden courtyard and let nature be the main decor.


Best For: The eco-conscious bride who wants to give back with her shower. Or, for the bride and groom who want to re-vamp their lifestyle to be more green. Hot registry items: stainless-steel pots and pans; organic cotton bed and bath linens; bamboo cooking utensils.

Planning Tip: Send email invitations (done by a graphic designer) to save on waste, or use recycled paper and have your invitations printed with soy ink. Give tree saplings, lavender sachets, or soy candles as favors. Hire a caterer that specializes in organic cuisine or cooks with locally grown ingredients.

Potential Pitfall: Just because you’re going green, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Think eco-chic (not crunchy). Ditch the burlap and go with crisp, white organic cotton tablecloths teamed with matching napkins tied with twine. Ask you local baker to make trendy vegan cupcakes -- your guests will never know the difference!

Bridal Shower Theme: Charity Shower

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What it is: Instead of bringing gifts to the bridal (lora bridal shop)shower, guests are asked to bring a donation (food, old clothing, or even cash) to benefit the couple’s favorite charity.

Best For: The bride who has lived on her own (or with her fiancé) for awhile, and already has traditional shower gifts (cookware and bath linens) but still deserves a fantastic party. Or, any bride who would rather not be the center of attention at a gift-giving extravaganza.

Planning Tip: Rather than spending cash on favors, continue the theme by making donations to a charity of the bride and groom’s choosing in the guests’ names.

Potential Pitfall: There will always be those who feel obligated to buy a gift for the shower. Don’t discourage them; but point out that the bride may not use the item if it’s something she already owns.

Mother of the Bride: 4 Tips to Deciding on a Wedding Day Look

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Mother-of-the-bride dresses are a special breed. You want something that's fabulous and flattering, but your search will be limited to the wedding's underlying dress code. Before you start flipping through the dress racks (at the six- to eight-month mark), spend a little time thinking about the wedding logistics. Just as with your daughter's gown, the time, setting, and season of the event will dictate the appropriate attire for you. You can get away with dressing up a notch, but donning a sequined ball gown for a champagne brunch will make you feel out of place. And nothing helps you radiate more than feeling calm, confident, and comfortable on the wedding day. Here are the overarching factors to consider.


1. Time and Season
Daytime weddings and evening affairs have their own explicit sets of dress codes. For the day, you want your fabrics light and colors bright. In the evening, it's more acceptable to flaunt beads, sequins, and other sparkles in darker hues. Similarly, hemlines get shorter as the summer days get longer (one exception: floor-length is always fitting for a black-tie affair). And fabrics and colors change with the seasons: Bold colors and airy fabrics lighten the warmer months, while deeper tones and rich materials warm up the fall and winter.


2. The Location
Where will the ceremony and reception take place? A ballroom? A park? A vineyard? If you're going to be outdoors at a botanical garden in the early morning, for instance, you'll want to forgo a gown that skims the dewy ground. Or, if the wedding is outdoors, will you need to trek through a garden? Will there be air-conditioning in summer or a good heating system in winter? Will you need to do a lot of walking? A lot of sitting? You get the idea. Which style of dress normally makes you feel comfortable? Remember, you might be wearing this one from early morning until late at night.


3. Your Daughter's Desires
Chances are, your daughter has a few ideas about what she'd like to see you wear on her wedding day -- brides don't like big surprises and we're guessing you don't either. So take her shopping with you; plan a fun day around it.
First, talk about what she's wearing -- if she'll walk down the aisle in a strapless sheath, look for a tank-style dress or something with light sleeves. Then ask for her "what not to wear" list: Are there certain colors to steer clear of (besides white, of course)? She may be adverse to anything too bright or flashy. Does she think a V-neckline is too revealing? Is she afraid you'll clash with her color scheme?
Then insist that the bride offer you her ideas, which will save you valuable shopping time. Explain your issues, if any (a certain color doesn't look good on you, perhaps, or she's thinking about a style that you feel just won't suit you), and see if you can find some common ground. Black is totally acceptable for a mother to wear nowadays and goes with any color and just about any type of event.
If you disagree with what your daughter has in mind, don't argue -- just try on everything and one of two things will happen. One, she'll see why you don't like a particular dress shape, or two, you'll fall in love with something that you didn't think you'd like. Either way, you should shop with her so that even if she says she doesn't care what you wear, she's there to help guide your decision. Or maybe she knows what great taste you have and trusts you completely -- that's how it should be.

4. The Mother of the Groom's Look
Compare notes with the groom's mom -- you'll both feel more comfortable if your elegance is in sync. If you follow tradition, the mother of the bride should be allowed the first opportunity to choose a dress so you don't end up with the same one. However, you may be confronted with a mother of the groom who isn't up on her etiquette. Either way, just opening up a line of communication probably will make things easier for both parties. After all, she's probably just as anxious about the purchase as you are.
Call her a few days before you go shopping. Say, "I'm heading out to get my dress this weekend for the wedding. I'll let you know how it goes and what color I end up getting. Any suggestions as to where I should look?" This accomplishes a few things. First, you let her know you're going shopping, and second, she lets you know where she likes to shop, so you can avoid getting the same dress.
Don't flip out if she's not on board with the rules -- she might have budget constraints or limited retail options. She might already own a fabulous evening gown in navy blue. In that case, just buy your own gown and don't worry about coordinating the effort. Bottom line: A matching level of formality is key (a sundress and sequined ball gown at either end of the group wedding photo would look a little off), but harmonizing the colors isn't so critical.

Mother of the Bride Dress: 6 Essential Shopping Tips

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Whether you're the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom, you'll have many special moments on the wedding day. All eyes will be on you as you walk into the ceremony and when you're announced at the reception. And what about all those pictures? You may not have shopped for a bridal gown this important since your own wedding, so here are some tips to get you going.

Communication Is Key
Talk to the bride. Get a sense of her vision for the day. Think of the wedding as a big production -- you have one of the leading roles. Find out from the bride (the director) how to dress your part.

Think of the wedding as a big production in which you have one of the leading roles
Get Going
Start shopping as early as possible, but not until the bride has chosen her wedding gown and the bridesmaid dresses -- then it's time for you to begin your own Mother of the Bride dress search.

Make a Match
Look at what the bride and the bridal party are wearing and follow their lead as far as formality.

Find Your Hue
Decide what color you want to wear. Start looking with several color preferences in mind -- but stay away from white, cream or ivory (you don't want to look like you're trying to steal the spotlight). The best Mother of the Groom and Mother of the Bride dresses compliment the mom's coloring and don't clash with the wedding colors (no, the dress doesn't have to match the bridesmaids').

Compromise with the Bride
A good idea is to have the bride send you magazine pictures to get an idea of what style she has in mind. If she'd like you to wear a style you're not happy wearing, let her know and do your best to compromise. It's her day, but you have to feel comfortable.


Talk to the Mother of the Groom
The Mother of the Bride should consult with the Mother of the Groom when she's selected her dress, informing her of color and formality. The groom's mother doesn't have to buy something in the same shade, but it should echo the skirt and sleeve length.

Groomsmen: Top 5 Trends

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Bye-Bye Bow Tie
Today, being a stylish groomsman has a lot to do with what's worn underneath the jacket. We're seeing tuxedos with long (not bow) ties, and with vests instead of cummerbunds. "More and more grooms are ordering cravat [long] ties, non-pleated shirts, and three-button jackets, which is a more modern option," says Brian Regenstreich, manager of Zeller Tuxedos in New York.

Make every groomsman's boutonniere different, but match them with the bouquet of the bridesmaid he escorts down the aisle.

Beyond the Tux
If you're having a casual affair, go ahead and ditch the tuxes. Instead, dress the guys in blazers, and match something in their outfits (a pocket square, a tie, a belt, their socks!) with the overall color scheme. For a great casual look, have your party wear khaki pants they already own, and ask them to all get the same navy blazer. Another way to coordinate? Order extra fabric from the bridesmaid dresses to make matching ties for the groomsmen -- this is a great way to tie the party together.

Don't Forget Gramps
Many grooms are paying respect to their elders by getting them matching tuxedos. "More and more grooms come in with their grandfathers," says Regenstreich. "If the grandfather is not officially in the party, at least he'll feel like he's part of the celebration with the tuxedo he wears." If you don't want him to look identical to the party, have the grandfathers wear the same style tux and shirts, but a slightly different shade of tie than the groomsmen. That way they'll still be noticed as special, but they'll be distinct from the party.

Wearable Gifts
If your groomsmen are white-collared business types, chances are they spend a lot of their workweek in a suit or blazer. Give them a unique, personalized gift that will add to their wedding day style and that they'll also be able to use again and again. Cufflinks with their initials are a great gift, or you can go for styles that suit the personality of the guy who'll wear them. For the banker, get dollar signs or 'buy' and 'sell' links; for the sports fan, a baseball and mitt. The men in your party will appreciate the thought, and they'll also be thankful that they don't have something identical to the other five groomsmen at your wedding.

Vary the Boutonnieres
It's nice to have the wedding party somewhat coordinated, but it's totally acceptable to have the best man's boutonniere be different than the other members of the party. Another idea? Make every single groomsman's boutonniere different, but match them with the bouquet of the bridesmaid he escorts down the aisle. Decide what each pairing will be by using different colors of the same flower, or all different flowers in the same color. If the men in your party object to donning flowers of any sort, or if you want a more masculine look, consider boutonnieres of wheat, herbs, or leaves.

Groomsmen: Their Duties in Detail

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The groom's close friends and relatives, the groomsmen, support him throughout the wedding planning process. Take your role as groomsman seriously -- after all, you're helping one of your best friends through what can be a very nerve-racking day. Plus, if you act like the levelheaded, responsible guy you are, you'll impress those single bridesmaids. Read on for a rundown of your duties.

As a groomsman(burgundy dresses), be prepared to serve as information central for those who aren't in the know.

Like the bridesmaids, you'll have to pay for your wedding gear. Luckily, you can usually rent a tux for quite a bit less than what the bridesmaid dresses will cost. Be sure to get fitted at the specified store with time to spare -- you don't want to walk down the aisle in floods!

Attending all prewedding festivities (engagement party, couple shower, bachelor party, rehearsal dinner). Perks: Free vittles and drinks.

Helping the best man plan the groom's bachelor party. Perks: Good food, drinks, and perhaps some insights into female anatomy.

You'll conspire with the best man -- and the bridesmaids -- to decorate the honeymoon getaway car in style.

Before the ceremony, you may be asked to usher guests to their seats. At traditional Christian ceremonies, guests of the bride's family sit on the left, and guests of the groom's family sit on the right. At Jewish ceremonies, it's the opposite. When a couple arrives, take the woman's arm and escort her to her seat; her escort will follow you. Always seat the oldest woman first if several guests arrive together. You should arrive at the ceremony site at least 45 minutes early to review special seating requirements.

Be prepared to serve as information central and direct guests to restroom facilities and the reception site.

Purchase a wedding present, perhaps with one of the other groomsmen. You'll have more buying power, and two heads are often better than one when it comes to gift ideas. Sometimes the entire groomsmen gang pitches in for one knock-them-off-their-feet wedding gift.

At the reception, you may be introduced with the bridesmaid you escorted during the recessional. You may also be asked to dance with bridesmaids or single female guests during the evening. Wow, how easy is this?

Grooms: 4 Unique Wedding Attire Ideas for the Groom

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Sure, all eyes will be on the bride, but as the groom you should still set yourself apart. Although wedding tradition dictates that the groom and his henchmen all wear similar outfits, it's important to help guests identify you as the special guy who just locked lips with the bride at the altar.
The more formal the event, the more strict the codes of conduct. If you and yours are opting for an ultra-formal affair, your team will wear virtually the same togs, so being singular becomes a tougher task. The more casual the celebration, the more leeway you'll have. But regardless of the sartorial dictates of your wedding you can use these four ways to stand out on your special day.

Alternative Tux
Wearing a subtly different jacket from those of your groomsmen is a surefire way to make your mark. For a daytime affair, wear a cutaway coat, but have your boys wear stroller coats instead. If you select a double-breasted jacket, put your men in a single-breasted cut. Or, put yourself in a one-button jacket and have the groomsmen sport a three-button version. If your tux has a satin lapel, the boys' could be plain. Another option: wear a white dinner jacket, and put the groomsmen in traditional black tuxes (or vice versa).

A Fancier Flower
A unique boutonniere, a "mini-corsage" worn on the jacket lapel, is the easiest way to help guests single you out. If your wedding will be very formal and mismatched tuxes would seem inappropriate, run with this option. For example, have boutonnieres made of the same flower (such as stephanotis) for the groom and groomsmen, but add a berry or herbal accent, such as rosemary, oregano, or mint to yours. Or, select a different but very similar blossom: wear a lily of the valley boutonniere, and have your men sport stephanotis. It's a good idea to keep the flowers in the same color family for a consistent look. Two more options: the groom can adorn himself with a 2- or 3-blossom boutonniere and the groomsmen with a single bloom of the identical flower, or the groom can wear a fully open blossom while the groomsmen don buds of the same flower.

The Telltale Tie
Boost your "all about me" factor by wearing a different colored tie or bow tie than the gang. For instance, if you wear a silver tie and matching vest, the groomsmen could sport a vest and tie combo that complements or matches the bridesmaid dresses. Grooms can go one step further and wear a different type of neckwear from the guys. If you choose a bow tie, the groomsmen could wear neckties with a Windsor knot, which has a triangle-shaped knot, larger than your standard, everyday four-in-hand. Or, if you plan to wear an ascot, select a matching necktie for your men.

Variety in the Vest
Vests are another element of the tux with which grooms can experiment. Pick a vest that's a different color from that of your groomsmens'. If you choose a black tie and black vest, you could put the groomsmen in a color that matches the bridesmaid dresses. Or, set yourself apart in a cummerbund and put the fellas in vests.

Wedding Rehearsals: Rehearsal Dinner Басицс

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Don't let the name, wedding rehearsal, fool you. You don't have to spend the entire night perfecting your walk down the aisle -- just part of it. You'll spend the rest of the wedding rehearsal eating and drinking merrily, compliments of the groom and his family (at least most of the time).

What Is It?
The rehearsal dinner is a practice party traditionally hosted by the groom's parents on the eve of the wedding. A formal rehearsal of the ceremony is not mandatory, but most officiants will want to run through the service with the bride, groom, their parents, the wedding party, and any readers, giving everyone their cues for the next day. If you have a slew of attendants this is a good time to get them familiar with the layout of the ceremony location and make sure they know the order they're walking in -- as well as an opportunity to go over what time to be there on the wedding day, and any other last-minute details.

Mingle your guests. The dinner is a great opportunity for both of your families to get better acquainted before the wedding day.

After the rehearsal -- usually held at the church/ceremony site -- everyone gathers for a celebratory dinner, where the bride and groom are roasted and toasted (go easy on the toasting; you do have to get married the next day!). The dinner is a great opportunity for your two families to get better acquainted before the wedding day. You may also present the wedding party with thank-you gifts during the course of the evening.


Who Hosts?
Traditionally, the groom's family throws this fete, but these days it's up for grabs. You two might take matters into your own hands, or both sets of parents may choose to do the honors together. See if there's room in your wedding budget.


Where Is It?
The event can be as casual or as fancy as you like. Many are held in hotel banquet rooms, or restaurants, with full-course dinners and desserts (some have a distinct resemblance to a wedding reception!). Others are held at home, with Italian or Chinese food ordered in. Where you decide to have yours depends on the budget of whoever is throwing it, how many guests there will be -- and often simply what kind of party the host or hostess envisions. While the couple does have some say about this, if the groom's family hosts, you should really try to let his mom be the hostess for this evening. Concentrate your own planning efforts on the wedding. If you're hosting, find your wedding rehearsal dinner location.

Who's Invited?
At the very least, the wedding guest list includes immediate family (parents and siblings), wedding-party members and any spouses and significant others, and the parents of any child attendants (inviting the children themselves is optional). You should also invite the officiant and his/her spouse to the dinner.
If many out-of-town guests are invited to the wedding, they may also be invited to the rehearsal dinner, especially if there are many who will have already arrived in town for the wedding. If you'd rather have the rehearsal be an intimate affair but don't want to leave other guests hanging, think about having the rehearsal two nights before the wedding day -- on Thursday night for a Saturday wedding -- and then having a welcome party for out-of-towners on Friday night instead.


What Happens?
A few elements are generally incorporated into the festivities:
Toasting: This is a great opportunity to thank your loved ones -- there probably won't be time to publicly toast everyone at the wedding(grey prom dresses) reception itself. As host of the party, the groom's father often goes to bat first, toasting his soon-to-be daughter-in-law and her family; the groom also says a few words.
Giving gifts: You may choose to give your attendants their thank-you gifts at this shindig. Make sure to also present your parents and anyone else who was an integral part of the wedding-planning process with a token of your appreciation -- flowers, a nice bottle of wine, or even a huge hug will do.

Your Nails: 10 Pro Tips

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What bride doesn't want a perfect set of nails on her wedding day? After all, there's no better way to show off that special something on your fourth finger. Get your hands wedding-ready with these 10 tips.

Start getting weekly manicures. If the price is too steep for you, get a professional manicure just once a month, and do your own nails during the three weeks in between.

Drink a mixture of orange juice and Knox gelatin once a week to help strengthen nails. For best results, adopt this beauty ritual at least one month before wedding day.

Use a nail-building base coat under your polish.

If you're a nail-biter, coat your nails with polish that tastes so bitter it stops you from nibbling. Use it for at least two months before your wedding.

Protect your nails from harsh chemicals by wearing rubber gloves when doing dishes and other household chores.

Steer clear of dish soap. Soak hands instead in warm water made sudsy with your favorite shampoo.

Apply a heavy dose of hand cream at bedtime to prevent dry, cracking skin. To really do it right, cover with cotton gloves so it soaks in while you doze.

Ward off chips and splits by buffing nails nightly with a smoothing block.

Top nails off three times a week with a strengthening polish, such as Nailtiques #2.

And finally, protect your nails by using the end of a pencil to dial the phone.

Refresh Your Spirit: The Art of Sensual Massage

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Nothing feels as fab as an hour or so of your honey's undivided attention. And nothing will set you on the yellow brick road to relaxation faster than massage. Combine both and you've got an unbeatable combination. So tell your fiance he's in for a treat tonight, then give him a sensual massage using the pointers below.

Set the Mood
The first step to a truly relaxing and sensual massage is setting the mood.(grey prom dresses) Unplug the phone, and light some candles (nix harsh overhead lighting). Make sure the room is warm: You want your lover to chill out, not freeze.

Accessories
Massage oil is the only required accessory. You can use scented or unscented, or even baby oil in a pinch. If you plan to get busy with a condom later, buy a water-based massage liquid -- oil can destroy latex. Rub your hands together to warm them and the oil up before touching your partner's bare skin.
Set up a massage workspace by covering your mattress with towels -- so the massage oil doesn't ruin your sheets.

The Basics
The most sensitive body parts are: head and neck, ears, sides of the body from armpits to hips, inner thighs, fingers and toes, and, of course, genitals. Keep this handy list in mind as you provide some sensual R&R.

The Massage (in 10 Easy Steps)
1. Laying on of hands. With your guy lying on his stomach, buck-naked, warm your hands by rubbing them together and place them on your partner -- one hand on the upper back, one hand on the lower. Leave your hands there for a long moment; this starts your sweetie on the path to relaxation.
2. Spread the oil. Make sure you've warmed it in your hands first, and start with a very small amount.
3. Start rubbing. Rub your hands up and down your sweetie's whole backside. Accentuate the strokes described above until you feel relaxation set in.
4. Legs. Continue onto the legs. Be sure to cover both front and back sides with sensual strokes.
5. Arms and hands. Pay special attention to the hands. Use your thumbs to massage the heels of your honey's hands. Lock fingers and rotate his wrists.
6. Feet. There's a whole school of massage -- reflexology -- devoted solely to these puppies. Spend time really digging into your sweetheart's footsies.
7. Front torso. Take care massaging the abdomen. Press deeply, but not so much that it hurts. Ask if what you're doing feels good.
8. Chest. Don't ignore your sweetie's chest: Knead the fleshy parts, and use your fingertips to massage the nipples. Imagine that your fingers are following the spokes on a bicycle wheel, and let them radiate from the center of the nipple to its edge. Remember to use a light touch!
9. Neck and head. Anyone who's gotten a scalp massage at the hair salon knows how it makes you tingle all over. Use your fingertips and nails to really dig in there.
10. Genitals. If you're going erotic, go all the way. Chances are you'll get a thankful response no matter what you do, but check out one of these spicy reads for more instruction: Erotic Massage : The Tantric Touch of Love by Kenneth Ray Stubbs, Ph.D., with Louise-Andree Saulnier (Tarcher/Putnam); Great Sex Guide by Anne Hooper (Dorling Kindersley); Hot Sex by Tracey Cox (Bantam)

Interfaith Weddings: Resources

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Planning an interfaith wedding? Here are some must-have resources:
Books
Interfaith Wedding Ceremonies : Samples and Sources by Joan C. Hawxhurst (Dovetail Publishing, 1997)
The Intermarriage Handbook : A Guide for Jews and Christians by Judy Petsonk and Jim Remsen (Quill, 1991)
Celebrating Interfaith Marriages: Creating Your Jewish/Christian Ceremony by Devon A. Lerner (Owl Books, 1999)
Mixed Matches: How to Create Successful Interracial, Interethnic, and Interfaith Relationships by Joel Crohn, Ph.D. (Fawcett Books, 1995)

Interfaith Organizations
The American Ethical Union, 2 West 64th Street, New York, NY 10023, (212) 873-6500, www.aeu.org
Dovetail Institute for Interfaith Family Resources: www.dovetailinstitute.org/
Rabbinic Center for Research and Counseling, (908) 233-0419, www.rcrconline.org/ Has comprehensive, up-to-date international list of almost 300 rabbis who officiate at intermarriages and their conditions for doing so.
InterfaithFamily.com: Offers Jewish clergy officiation referral service, a downloadable guide to interfaith wedding ceremonies, tips, and more.
Unitarian Universalist Association, 25 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108, (617) 742-2100, www.uua.org

Interfaith Weddings: Dealing With the Family

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If you're engaged or married to someone of a different religion, your family may not even think twice about it (lucky you!). Or, they may be unpleasant, unsupportive, or downright negative. Their rejection can be very painful, but taking a proactive stance may make things easier on everyone. Here's how to smooth things out.

Show Affection, Not Rejection
Many parents view their child's choice of a partner of a different faith as a rejection of all they've taught. If your parents feel defensive, there's no way they'll want to hear why your guy is so great. Instead, tell them how much you love and value your own religion. Assure them that you're not turning your back on what they've taught you, and that your children will learn about their faith, too. If you convince them that you value their opinions and beliefs, they'll be more likely to respect yours.
Assure them that you're not turning your back on what they've taught you, and that your children will learn about their faith, too.

Give Your Folks the Floor
Let your parents voice their opinions and offer advice (even if only they consider it advice). Then ask them what conflicts arose during their own wedding planning and early marriage. How did their families react to news of their engagement? If they could do it again, what would they handle differently? What truths have they learned about marriage? Really listen to their concerns.
Talking to your parents accomplishes three things: you'll learn what their real fears are so you can address them; you'll gain ammunition to defuse future attacks; and you'll honor them by asking their opinion.

Accept a Little Disapproval
If your parents just don't, or won't, agree with you on some points -- guess what? They don't have to. They can harbor different beliefs or a different view of how you should act, and you can go about your business, aware of their disapproval but loving each other anyway.

Keep the Door Open
Keep your family in your life as much as possible. If your parents are giving you flack, don't give them the silent treatment. By keeping in contact, you have a better chance to maintain perspective and remember that this dispute is only part of your relationship. Accepting your family -- foibles and all -- is part of accepting yourself.
If your parents are shutting you out, keep your door unlocked. Go ahead and send a wedding(burgundy dresses) invitation; they may very well show up. If you're already married, keep in touch. Even if it's only by phone, you're still leaving the door open.

Set Boundaries
Even if your parents' input feels too painful, you should try to keep them in your life -- within limits. If conflicts arise every time you get together, keep in touch via telephone, or control the discussion by asking for input on specific items and then changing the subject. If needed, let them know you'll stick around until you hear one word against your beloved. Remember that you can set the terms for family interaction.

Don't Expect the Worst
You may find your parents' gloom-and-doom predictions pleasantly upended as they see you becoming happier over the years.