Two terrific planning books came across my desk recently that you and your fiancé might want to add to your must-read list. First up: The Bridal Bible (Globe Pequot Press, $30) by Sharon Naylor (a regular Bridal Guide contributor) and Blair deLaubenfels, Christy Weber and Kim Bamberg (founders of junebugweddings.com) is filled with fantastic information for every phase of wedding planning.
From choosing your style and location to the parties you might have after the wedding, this must-have tome covers it all. You’ll get expert advice on hair and makeup, wedding attire, invitations, the ceremony, reception décor, flowers and cakes, photography, videography, entertainment and more. Everything is spelled out clearly and concisely with checklists and timelines to help keep you on track. Bonus: The book is filled with gorgeous pictures illustrating each topic, and there are lots of smart tip boxes throughout. Here’s a sweet one to keep in mind on the wedding day:
Presenting Floral Pieces to Grandmothers and Others
“If these honored women will be present at the site where you will be getting dressed and receiving your own bouquet for prewedding photos, take a moment to present each woman with her floral piece. As you present the corsage, nosegay, or wristlet, say a few words of thanks and tell each woman what she means to you. Prepare a printed love letter to each woman on your VIP list, sharing your sentiments, thanking them for their lifetime of love and support, as the perfect wedding day keepsake.”
Of course, everyone assumes the bride handles the majority of the wedding planning, but that doesn’t mean the groom is totally clueless or uninformed. In fact, some guys really get into planning the big day. But for all you grooms out there who find the whole thing completely confusing check out Be The Man: The Man Registry® Guide for Grooms by Chris Easter (Alpha Books, $14.95).
This funny but very practical guide will help you find your way through the wedding planning maze. Author Chris Easter, co-founder of themanregistry.com, breaks it down into a “plan of attack” and “duties for dudes.” You’ll find advice for engagement ring shopping, gift registering (set up your man cave with a poker table and dart board!), budget tips, and bachelor party rules and guidelines. Plus, there’s sound advice on writing wedding vows, what to expect on the wedding night, and how to plan the perfect honeymoon. So man up, guys, and fearlessly go where many a groom has gone before: Planning a wedding is really a lot of fun! Not only will all the cool memories last a lifetime, but she’ll also love you even more for it.
—Diane Forden
- from-dianes-desk's blog
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