There are many customs and details that you can get caught up in when planning a wedding. Details are important, of course, and sometimes it’s those little details that can make your wedding very special. But don’t be afraid to toss out the things that are stressing you. For example: the guest book. Are you [...]
Summer’s here and it’s a beautiful time for weddings. It is a good idea to be prepared for all the season brings, and to let your guests know what to expect as well. I’ll only just mention the importance of having a good rain plan, as I have written about this so much, I’m tired [...]
I love the idea of a welcome or hospitality basket which as especially great for out-of-town guests. This is becoming popular and I find it thoughtful and, well, welcoming! Imagine arriving for a wedding weekend, checking into your hotel room, and finding a basket or more likely, a nice bag of some kind. It is [...]
Many people choose to have readings incorporated into their wedding ceremony. It is a time-tested custom and popular both in church and other venues. When someone is asked to read it is, indeed, an honor. But besides prescribed biblical passages, how to you pick other types of readings, and how to you pick who should [...]
There are countless cultural traditions that can be a source of inspiration for a wedding, but one of my very favorites is the Celtic, or Irish heritage. I’m not sure why, but there seem to be more rituals, customs and literary sources to draw from than just about any other group. There is a very [...]
Emotions are something we often try to control and tears feel like they can get in the way. But it is perfectly normal to be nervous and tearful before your wedding. In fact, I would be worried about you if you were not somewhat nervous. Before the big day, and just before that big moment [...]
If you are getting married you are no doubt excited about taking one of the most important steps in life’s journey. But how do you handle all the ideas and pressures coming at you? You can have your wedding on your own terms, if you approach it thoughtfully. The very first step is to do [...]
Couples sometimes wonder if the have to do ‘this or that’ for their wedding. I always assure them that for the ceremony there are only three things I consider necessary: that they exchange vows in some way, that I ‘pronounce them’ as married, and that the license is properly signed and sent. Other than [...]
Using meaningful, spiritual, or even fun or unusual rituals in your wedding is one good way to express what your commitment means to you. Religious ceremonies are full of rituals, which are specific to their faith traditions. The Stations of the Cross, Confession, Communion, Shabbat candles, as well as prayers or songs are all good [...]
Warm weather has finally arrived in the Poconos and we can’t help turning our thoughts to outdoor weddings! There is a reason outdoor ceremonies and celebrations are so popular. It is romantic as well as meaningful. Standing under the blue sky, with nature all around, is a dream come true. Whether the setting is fields [...]