Wedding Toasts and Selecting the Perfect Bride and Groom Wedding Champagne Glasses

Speeches and toasts are a key component of any wedding reception. Classic wedding toasts are often rousing, funny, thoughtful and sentimental. As you are planning the sequence of events at your wedding reception, keep in mind that you will want to allow time for at least one of the following toasts.

The Best Man's Toast: The best man's toast is a wedding staple. If you only want one speaker at your wedding, it should be the best man. The best man should try to make people laugh a little bit, and maybe even cry, as he talks about how much he loves the couple and adds some wise thoughts and hope for their future.

The Maid of Honor's Toast: It has never been traditional for the maid of honor to speak at a wedding, however, it's becoming increasingly common for both the best man and the maid of honor to offer a toast. The maid of honor's toast is similar to that of the best man, but may include some unique anecdotes about the couple.

The Parents: If the bride's father pays for the wedding, as the host he should offer a brief toast to welcome everyone and thank them for attending. If both families contributed to the wedding expenses, both sets of parents may stand together as one of them offers a welcome on behalf of all of them. If the couple has paid for the wedding entirely, then they can give a welcome without toasting.

The Bride and Groom: This should be a brief speech, that allows the couple a chance to thank everyone for coming, and to thank their family and friends for their love and support.

Be sure to ask anyone you would like to speak at your wedding far in advanced. This will allow your speakers time to prepare their toasts and practice orating. You might also want to request that they bring a hard copy of their speech with them to your reception, so that each speaker has something to reference.

You will also want to invest in a nice pair of champagne glasses for your wedding reception. Bride and groom champagne glasses are a traditional part of most wedding celebrations. These glasses make wonderful keepsakes that can be used in anniversary celebrations for years to come. These are sometimes thought of basic and traditional, but modern bride and groom champagne glasses come in many styles and themes to provide the perfect accent to the rest of the wedding reception decor.

As you are preparing for your wedding day, be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Whether you need a few last minute wedding gift table decorations or everything from bridesmaids gifts and cake toppers to ring pillows and unity candles, you'll find everything you need for your dream wedding in our selection.

Create the Perfect Website for Your Wedding

While creating a website for your wedding is not mandatory, in today's digital age it is a great way to keep your guests informed of details for your ceremony and reception. You also don't need to be a technical genius to create a wedding website; there are many web services, such as Wedding Wire, that will provide website templates and hosting for free.

Below is a summary of content to include in your wedding website; organizationally, each of these items can be on a separate page of your site.

Date and Time - Include a separate for the wedding ceremony and reception

Ceremony Location - Be sure to include a street address, directions, and any requests you may have for your guests. If your ceremony venue has a website, you might also want to include a link to it on your website.

Reception Location - Like the Ceremony Location page, be sure to include the full street address and directions to the Reception Location. If your reception venue has a website, add a link to the site on your wedding website. If your wedding ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can combine the content in one web page. You can also inform guest of the attire for your wedding reception here.

Hotels and Accommodations - Most couples have out of town guests attend their weddings, however, it can be confusing for guest who don't know the city where the wedding is taking place. Help them out by posting travel details (i.e. how to get to your wedding by train, bus or plane), and which hotels are close by the wedding venues. If you have arranged for a group rate at a certain hotel, be sure to inform your guests here.

Bridal Registry - While it is not good etiquette to include details of your registry in your wedding invitation, your wedding website is the perfect place for it! Most retail sites have online registries where gift availability is current; be sure to include links to all the stores you are registered at here.

About The Bride and Groom - Personalization is always a nice touch. Consider including something about you and your partner, such as how you met. You may also want to include some photos of the two of you together.

Be sure not to include anything too personal in your wedding website. Remember it can be viewed not just by all your family and friends, but anyone in the world can access it.

The last thing to consider is that you need to find a way to inform your guests of the address of your website. You might not want to use social media to inform people of your wedding website, as it may reach too wide an audience and you can risk offending people who are not invited to your wedding. An easy alternative is to include the URL to your wedding website in either your Save the Date or as an insert in your Wedding Invitation.

Whether you are looking for beautiful Do-It-Yourself Wedding Invitation Kits, Save the Date Cards, or other Wedding Stationary, be sure to visit Wedding Staples today! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Browse our online selection today!

How to Make the Perfect Wedding Gift Card Holder

Having a gift card holder at your wedding reception is vital. Without one, you can be stuck carrying and keeping track of cards throughout your reception, or worst, you could risk losing your wedding gifts.
Gift card holders can take on many forms, but using an actual box is most common. If you chose to go that route, make sure to use a box that has a minimum depth of six inches. Remember, wedding cards tend to be large, and if you choose a box too shallow you can risk cards not fitting or overflowing from your card holder.

Another thing to consider is that you can easily make a gift card box to use at your wedding. Making your own gift card holder is not only inexpensive, but will allow you flexibility in color and design. Follow the below steps to make your own card box.

1. Find the right box - When choosing a box, consider color, shape and size. A craft store is a great place to look, since craft boxes can easily be transformed into a box for your wedding cards. When selecting a box color keep in mind that traditional white will always work, but you can also use a color that is in your wedding.

2. Measure a slit in the top of your box - To do this, first find the center of your box lid (if you are using a square or rectangular box trace 2 diagonal lines on the top of the box from opposite corners - the center will be where the lines intersect). Then measure a straight horizontal line that goes through the center of the box; this line should be 1 inch long, such that it is above the center by half an inch and below the center by half an inch. This 1 inch line represents the height of your slit. Now you can measure the length of the slit, by lining a ruler perpendicular to the width line you drew, and tracing a 6 inch line so that the center of your box lid hits in the middle and 3 inches are on either side of the center line. The final measuring step is simply extending the 1 inch height on either far end of the width line. This will allow you to easily draw a straight length line above and below the width. The final result will be a rectangular slit that is 1 inch in height by 6 inches in width that falls in the center of your box lid. Use the below diagram as a reference.

 
3. Cut the slit - Use a box cutter here for best results. Start by poking a hole with the box cutter in the center of your slit outline. Then slowly drag the box cutter to the edge being careful not to go outside the slit outline. Finally use the box cutter to trace the full outline of your slit.

4. Decorate your box - This is the fun part. You can be creative here, using wrapping paper, lace, ribbon, beading or sequins. These are items that can easily be found in either a craft shop or party supply store. A few details to consider when decorating:

• If you are using a gift box with a top and bottom, and want to decorate it with wrapping paper, you might want to wrap each part separately. This will allow you to easily dismantle the box after your wedding reception. 
• Whether you are wrapping your box or using another decoration, be sure to cover all the visible edges, making extra effort to ensure that the edges around the slit are not seen.
   

If you would rather not make a gift card holder or use a box, think creatively. Everyday items such as a vase with a wide opening or a simple silver tray can be used as gift card holder. If you are looking for something more unique, you can even use a birdcage card holder for your wedding reception.

If you are shopping for the perfect wedding gift card holder be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples offers a variety of wedding gift card holders at newly reduced prices! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit Wedding Staples to find everything for your wedding day!

How to Use a Unity Candle for Your Wedding Ceremony

There is no recorded history of when unity candles were first used in wedding ceremonies, but its use gained popularity in the mid to late 20th century. The unity candle was first used in wedding ceremonies when the bride and groom are of different religions, where the candle is symbolic of the unification of the bride and groom despite religious differences. In modern wedding ceremonies, it can also be symbolic of the bride and groom family's joining together in unity to become one family. Alternatively, some couples may use it to symbolize their love and commitment to each other, as their two lives become one.

A unity candle is a larger candle with a wide diameter, that is often decorated to match a wedding theme, or personalized with the names of the bride and groom. A complete set includes two tapers (or smaller candles) and a base for the unity candle.

Including the use of a unity candle during a wedding ceremony is simple, however you should talk to the person officiating your vows about it beforehand. Many religions do not allow the inclusion of a unity candle during the marriage sacrament. This is commonly the case with Christian religions, as the marriage ceremonies in Christian churches use their own symbolism.

To use a unity candle for your ceremony, first have the candle with base arranged on a table in front of the alter or space where the ceremony will be conducted. Depending on the base, the tapers should also be arranged on the tables. All candles should be unlit. At the beginning of wedding ceremony, a representative from both the bride and groom's side of the family should approach the table to each light one of the tapers. Later in the ceremony, often after the exchanging of rings and vows, the bride and groom will light the unity candle together, each using their family's respective tapers.

Over time, this tradition has taken on many other forms. Alternatively, the candle can be used to represent a blended family. This is typical when both the bride and groom have prior marriages and children, and they want to show the unity in their new combined family. In this case, the base candle is often personalized with the names of the bride and groom and each of their children. Another use of candles during a wedding ceremony is a memorial candle. This is used to symbolize the spirit of family members of the bride and groom who have passed on, but are remembered.

Be sure to visit Wedding Staples if you are looking for a unity candle to use in your wedding ceremony. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Wedding Staples offers a wide selection of unity candles, memorial candles, and other accessories to make your wedding day special. Browse our selection today!

How to Create the Perfect Scene for Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

Outdoor wedding ceremonies have gained popularity in recent years. Locations for outdoor weddings range from beaches, to mountaintops, to gardens. Once you have found the ideal location for your wedding, you need to determine if it is the right space for your wedding ceremony. When planning an outdoor wedding, consider the following.

1. Is the space large enough for the number of guests you are expecting? Also determine if there is enough space to set up chairs for your guests, a place to make an aisle, and also a spot for the ceremony to be conducted. You will need a personalized aisle runner for outdoor weddings to complete your wedding ceremony decor.  You can ask your guests to stand if you are planning a short ceremony and you are not expecting any elderly guests, or guests with disabilities.

2. Is there a spot on site you can use as a backup in case of rain or bad weather on your wedding day? If not, you might want to consider another location, or see if you can set up a tent at the site you have selected.

3. Is there any natural shade at the location you selected for your outdoor weeding? It is understood that most outdoor weddings take place during summer months, however you should be sensitive to the fact that your guests may have to endure hot weather conditions while you exchange vows. If you are set on a space without any shade, there are ways to work around it. You can offer a water bottle to each guest as they approach your ceremony site, or you can simply place a water bottle at the foot of each chair for your guests to enjoy. Another great idea is using a wedding program in the shape of a fan, rather than the traditional paper program.

4. What is the texture of the ground at your outdoor wedding location? If the ground is uneven or wobbly, you might need to consider installing a wood floor over the ground of your site to avoid any injury. You should also explicitly state the site of your wedding ceremony on your wedding invitation or save the date card. This will allow your guests to prepare ahead of time and dress accordingly.

5. Are there restroom facilities close by? Will they be easily accessible to your guests? If not, you should inform your guests ahead of time. You can do this by simply enclosing a pamphlet of your site with your wedding invitations. If your site does not have a pamphlet or website, consider creating your own to include with your invitation or on your wedding website.

6. Is parking easily accessible? If there is a long walk from the parking lot to the site of you wedding ceremony, you might want to consider an alternative location, especially if you are expecting elderly guests, or guests with disabilities.

7. Is there access to electricity at your location? This is important for two reasons: lighting and sound. If you are planning a daytime wedding ceremony, the former may not be relevant, however for an outdoor evening ceremony, you might want to line to aisle and ceremony area with lights. Another option here is to use battery operated candles to line the aisle. These are plastic and come in a votive, and can be used regardless of whether power is available. Do not use real candles! Someone could get hurt, and there is a chance they will not stay lit for the entire ceremony. Sound is also important. You want to ensure you can have microphone and speakers for your ceremony. This will ensure that all your guest can hear you exchange vows during your wedding ceremony, and also that the music you selected will be heard (if you use a live band for your ceremony they might require amps). Do not forget that you will need a minimum of 3 songs at your wedding ceremony, a prelude which will play as guests enter the ceremony area, a processional which will play when the bridesmaids and bride walk down the aisle and the recessional, which will play when the bride and groom are officially married and walking down the aisle after the ceremony is over.

Accessories will also be a key component in your outdoor wedding ceremony. Accessories are a great way to add a touch of elegance and personalization to any wedding. Whether you are looking for a personalized aisle runner for your outdoor wedding, or a complete set of beautiful coordinating wedding accessories, be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs, visit WeddingStaples.com today!

How to Make a Table Runner and Use a Table Runner As a Decorative Element in Your Wedding

Wedding table runners are a great way to add a touch of elegance and personalization to the decor at your wedding ceremony and reception. A table runner is a long narrow table linen. Its main purpose is to add an accent to table, and can be used over a table cloth or on a bare table. It should be centered perfectly on the table, so that the same amount of fabric hangs off either end of your table length wise, and that there is the same amount of space on either end of the table width wise.

A table runner can be used in many places through out your wedding. If you are having a religious ceremony, a runner can be used over the altar table. Also, if you have a table set up at the entrance to your wedding ceremony for programs or rice (or birdseed or bubbles to use when the ceremony is over), try decorating it with a runner. During your wedding reception, you can use a runner as decor on your wedding gift table. You may also want to use the same table runner as decor on either your dining tables or food service tables.

When choosing a table runner as part of your wedding decor, you should consider size and color. To determine the dimensions of the table runner you require, measure the width and length of a table you are using in your wedding. The length of your table runner should be the length of your table plus a 12 to 18 inch over hang on either side (some experts advise that a 15 inch over hang is perfect). The width of your table runner should be a minimum of 14 inches, and a maximum of one-third the width of your table. The color of your runner should either be a color used through out your wedding, or a color that blends in or accents other colors used in your existing decor.

Making a table runner is a fairly simple project, and can be a great way to cut costs in your wedding decorating budget. Start by shopping for fabric. Be sure to bring any color samples you are using in your wedding when you are browsing at a fabric store. Avoid any fabric textures that are sheer or delicate, you want your runner to stand out and be sturdy enough to endure a full day and night of use. After you have found the perfect fabric, calculate the number of yards needed based on your measurements of the table and the number of tables you are decorating. Be sure to add in an allowance to hem the fabric and to account for any cutting errors.

To finish the project at home, follow the below steps. You will need an iron, an ironing board, fabric scissors, pins and hem tape to get started.

1. Set up the ironing board and set the iron on to the setting that coordinates with the fabric you selected.

2. Measure out the dimensions for 1 table runner. Make sure to add an extra inch around the entire perimeter of the runner you originally measured. The extra fabric is needed to hem the runner. When measuring, stay as close to the fabric edge as possible; this will ensure you maximize the use of your fabric.

3. Cut the fabric based on your measurements in step 2.

4. Fold the fabric 1/2 inch around the edges, using a pin to secure the fold. Make sure your fold is on the backside of the fabric.

5. Iron the material flat around the edges and remove the pins.

6. Fold the fabric again 1/2 inch around the edges, in the same direction as done in step 4. Use pins to keep the fold in place.

7. Cut a piece of hem tape the same size of each edge of your runner.

8. Place the hem tape under one side of the fabric, under the folded edge. Iron the hem tape in place according to manufacturer's instructions.

9. Repeat step 8 for the other 3 sides of your runner.

If you are running short on time, consider purchasing a table runner for your wedding. Wedding Staples offers a variety of wedding table runners for sale, that can be customized by color and personalized. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit our online store today!

Wedding Gift Table Decorations

Decorating the gift table at your wedding reception can be easy and fun. To begin, make sure you have access to a table that can be used for wedding presents. Rectangular tables usually work better than round tables, because they can be pushed against a wall without disturbing the flow of your wedding reception. The size of the table you will need depends on the number of guests you are expecting. However, keep in mind that even if you are planning a large wedding, you might not receive a large number of gifts - many people ship presents before or after the wedding, and many guests will prefer to give a monetary gift. In most cases, a standard rectangular table size of 30 x 72 inches should work.

The next thing to consider is decor. When selecting elements for your wedding gift table make sure to be consistent with any themes or colors used in other places in your wedding; the items on the table should be cohesive with the overall mood of your wedding. You may also want to consider the following details in your wedding gift table decorations.

Table Linens: If you are using a certain color or patterned tablecloth for your wedding reception, you may want to rent or buy extra to use on your wedding gift table. Also consider a wedding table runner for a personalized touch.

Centerpieces: If you have extra centerpieces used on the dining tables at your wedding, you may want to add one to the gift table. Keep in mind, you may want to offset this centerpiece to the side of the table so that your guests have space to place their presents.

Framed Picture: A framed picture from your engagement is a nice alternative to a centerpiece for decorating your wedding gift table. A portrait will also add a personal element.

Guest Book: Keep a guest book towards the front of the table, so that all of your guests will be sure to sign it. Keep in mind, guest books have come a long way. One unique alternative is to make use a signature frame.

Gift Card Holder: Don't forget a gift card holder, or you can be stuck carrying around and keeping track of cards throughout the duration of your reception. A gift card holder can be a nice hat box a slit cut on the top, a simple silver tray or even a birdcage.

The final thing to consider is the placement of your wedding gift table. Make sure the table is in place where all of your guests will see and have access to it. A good place is either at the entrance to the cocktail hour or the reception.

Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit WeddingStaples.com to find everything you need for the perfect wedding gift table decorations. Wedding Staples carries a wide variety of wedding table runners, centerpieces, guest books, and gift card holders. Browse our selection today!