Shopping for a wedding photographer can be one of the most difficult parts of planning a wedding. It’s different from shopping for bouquets or a bridal gown because you can see something tangible while weighing these decisions; wedding photographs only become tangible after you have selected your photographer. Here are some tips to pick the right wedding photographer:
 
Word-of-mouth referrals from friends or family members are beneficial. Look at their wedding photos and ask about their first-hand experiences. If you like what you see and hear, contact the photographer so you can personally review their portfolio.
 
Know what type of photographs you want at your wedding. Experienced wedding photographers will know the traditional wedding poses most couples prefer. But if you would like to have behind the scenes shots leading up to the wedding, you might want to consider a photojournalist that specializes in weddings. With the photojournalist, you will get the traditional wedding shots and pictures leading up to the big moment.
 
Make sure the photographer is reliable. You should also have a backup plan in place if the photographer backs out. Check with the photographers' past customers if possible, and make sure he or she doesn’t have any unresolved issues with the Better Business Bureau.
 
Consider the photographer’s personality. Choose one that is upbeat and cordial and possesses the ability to converse with your guests, so everyone feels comfortable.
 
Discuss cost upfront. Professional photographers have many wedding packages available, and most will allow you to customize an order to fit your needs. Always plan to invest a little more than you budgeted; there's no need to gamble on a once-in-a-lifetime event. Consider this: if you spend $1000 for your wedding pictures, that’s only an investment of five cents per day by your 50th Anniversary. You will be concerned with the price once, but quality is forever.
The perfect wedding has just ended and now you’re heading out to your car that has been mysteriously covered in shaving cream and aluminum cans. Where are you off to? What honeymoon destination did you choose? If you want something that strays a bit from the norm, consider a different approach:
Determine your shared interests. Write down a list separately and compare them to see if you can come up with an unusual combination. For example, if she likes architecture and he likes hiking, visit a city renowned for hills and homes, like San Francisco.
You have unlimited possibilities if money isn’t a consideration; if it is, you can still have an amazing time on a tight budget. Camping in national parks and visiting museums are very inexpensive and rewarding experiences.

The honeymoon is traditionally for the newlyweds only. But this article is about an unusual honeymoon, so don’t hesitate to invite along any close family members (from either side). This has to be a mutual decision. It’s a great way to enjoy your new, larger family. But, if unwanted, definitely has some negative repercussions. 
 
Ever heard of a home honeymoon? After determining your budget, assign decorating duties to your friends and family and be surprised with the romantic atmosphere they create for you. This is a nice option if you are on a budget, or just want to get closer with your new husband or wife – without many distractions.
 
Most importantly, it’s your honeymoon and you make the rules. Decide what would be fun for both of you and go for it!
Outdoor weddings are romantic and full of natural beauty. They also take additional planning and considerations. With this quick guide, you can avoid some of the common drawbacks and be on your way to a charming outdoor ceremony.
 
Have comfortable guests. How will the weather be at the time of the year you plan to get married? If it’s a summer wedding have the ushers hand out bottles of water as the guests are seated. Also, consider printing the wedding program on a fan for some added comfort. Large electric fans with a generator or a large tent will keep the heat away during an outdoor summer ceremony. For cold weather weddings inform guests to wear extra layers and have lap blankets and portable heaters on hand.
 
Have a backup plan. In case of unexpected rain, have a backup indoor location ready. Many brides and grooms have their ceremony outside and reception inside. The reception space can quickly be converted for the ceremony in case an unexpected rainstorm occurs.
 
Plan for wind. Inform your hairstylist that you are having an outdoor ceremony so they can plan a hairstyle that will stand up better in outdoor conditions. For the dresses, stay away from light fabrics like silks and chiffons. Inform your guests with an insert inside of the invitation if your wedding location is known to be windy.
 
Timing is important. For added beauty and romance, consider planning your wedding vows around the sunset. If you’re having a daytime wedding, you should arrange the ceremony so the sun won’t be in the eyes of your guests.
 
Be Legal. Lastly, remember to contact your local government or parks department to secure a permit for an outdoor wedding if it’s taking place on public property, like parks or public landmarks.
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Creative Cake Ideas
 
Traditional wedding cakes cost around $3.00 per slice. The average wedding has around 200 guests, so you can expect a cake that costs between $600 and $1000 dollars. If you’re on a budget, the cake doesn’t have to be that expensive.

We’ve gathered a few options to help you trim the price of that cake.
 

– Create mini wedding cupcakes; you can even create a cupcake tower that can be very ornate.

– Order a smaller cake for aesthetic reasons, and have a similar sheet cake made for your guests.

– In addition to the second top, offer a dessert bar with pastries to give your guests more options.


First Dance Songs
Nothing compliments the first dance better than the perfect song (and dancing skills of course). Here’s a list of ten timeless first dance songs.

1. “At Last” by Etta James


2. “Come Rain or Come Shine” by Ray Charles

3. “Something” by The Beatles

4. “Breathe" by Faith Hill

5. “As Time Goes By” by Frank Sinatra

6. “Faithfully” by Journey

7. “Your Song” by Elton John

8. “Woman” by John Lennon

9. “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole

10. “Endless Love” by Diana Ross and Lionel Ritchie



Wedding Customs Around the World
Every culture and country has unique wedding customs. Americans are most familiar with bouquet tossing and being showered with rice or bird seed. Here are some traditions of weddings around the world.
 
Bermuda 
Islanders top their wedding cake with a tiny sapling. Once the newlyweds get home, they plant the tree and watch it grow along with their marriage.
 
Egypt 
On her wedding day, the bride is pinched to bring her good luck. Also, to give the newlyweds some added relaxation, the bride’s family cooks for them for a week after the wedding.
 
England 
The English believe that a spider found in the wedding dress brings good luck. Wednesday is considered the best day to marry, Saturday is the unluckiest day, but it’s the most popular.
 
Wales 
An old tradition was for the man to carve a wooden spoon with his pocket knife. It would be attached to a ribbon and presented to the woman and worn as a sign of their engagement. This is where we get the term “spooning.”
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