Another dilemma that often comes up when planning a wedding is who will walk who down the aisle. Although traditionally it is the father that does this, the plethora of step-families has made it a more difficult decision. This is especially true when the step parents have been in the children’s lives for a long time.

Breaking tradition

A bride that has both a step father and a biological father may opt still to have her biological father walk her down the aisle. This can be a way to show her family bond as well as stick with tradition. In the case of a bride that hasn’t been close to her father, she may opt to have her step father walk her down the aisle. This is a newly emerging sight at weddings, and quite touching.

Of course, if the bride loves both of the men and wants to include them, there’s nothing wrong with having both walk her down the aisle. It honours her relationship with both men and lets them have the chance to hold her arm.

This also holds true for the groom. He can choose to escort both a step mother and his biological mother down the aisle at the beginning is she should choose to. Or the best man can do so, as is tradition.

If the father has passed on, the bride may opt to have an older brother or an uncle walk her down the aisle. Likewise, if the mother of the groom has passed, then a sister or an aunt may want to walk with him.

Dealing with difficulties

While this all seems like a loving and simple solution to include everyone in the wedding, some parents may still have issues with their ex-spouses. And this can lead to bitter feelings about your choice in who walks who down the aisle.

Should you fight for what you want? That’s entirely up to you. If walking with both fathers makes you happy, then you should do that even if the opposite partners are not pleased for whatever reason.

If you feel that it may cause more trouble than it is worth, then you may opt to stick with tradition. Just be sure to include your step parent in some other part of the wedding so they don’t feel left out because of biological status.

In the end, remember that it’s your day and your decision.

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Social media has taken over pretty much every aspect of our daily lives . That being said it may be something that you want to include in your wedding. The idea of a hashtag is something that more and more couples are using . It is an excellent way to to keep all the photos and other posts in an easy to find format .
When creating your hashtag you definitely want to choose something that is unique but not too unique. You might be the only Jack and Jill that you know but understand that the world wide web is world wide and forever. Instead of #jackjill you might want to add the married last name or even the date or year. #jackjilljonesjune2015 is something that is specific without being too obscure.
We see all the time really long hashtags but in this case it might be something to avoid. Imagine your friends posting a picture they just took and taking five minutes to type in your hashtag. Chances are they will give up after the first two posts. 
Make sure that the hashtag you choose actually works . Keep it to simple letters and number combinations. Adding spaces, punctuation or symbols a no-no for hashtags.
Even if you believe that you have a unique hashtag that no one else will ever think of there is a good chance someone all ready has. Try your hashtag out on social media prior to sharing it. That way you can alter it if is already too popular 
Once you have the hashtag that works then spread the word. Add it to your invites, programs, signage,website and anything else that you would use as a communication tool. Then you are ready to go ! 

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Many couples are opting to pay for their weddings themselves. Some couples decide to pay for their own weddings because they have not other choice, some do so as a matter of choice. The best reason to pay for your own wedding is because you do not want to compromise on how, when and where you get married and you are ready to pay for it all on your own.

The average cost of a wedding in the North America is over $25,000, so financing your wedding requires a serious financial commitment. The sooner you start planning and saving for your wedding, the more time you have to come up with the necessary funds. The average time between the engagement and the wedding day is 12 to 18 months. Such time frame gives you an opportunity to plan and save for your wedding. The most important task you have is to determine the total amount you wish to spend on your wedding. Then, divide the amount by the number of months to determine how much money you need to put aside each month to meet your goal. If you estimate that your wedding will cost $25,000, and you have two years until your wedding, you need to save about $1042.00 per month. Realistically, not everyone can put aside a thousand dollars each month. If you are unable to save enough to cover all the costs, you may need to start cutting costs until you come up with a figure that you can meet. Aside from cost cutting, you can do a lot by saving one everything you do. You can save by taking your lunch instead of going out, spend less on clothes and entertainment. You could also, take on a part time job to help you with your budget. You have many options.

Opening a separate savings account for your wedding may help enforce the need to save. Even if you start with a modest amount a special wedding savings account should help you make the right spending and saving decisions. 

You can find ways to save money by learning as much as you can about the products and services you need for your big day. The more educated you become about prices, the more you can bargain with vendors to make sure you get the best possible deals in town.

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Are you trying to decide whether to hire a professional wedding planner or do it yourself? Take a look at this rudimentary collection of chores and details to be attended to in order to pull off a successful wedding. You'll probably want to run, not walk, to find the nearest professional wedding planner or consultant. 

There's the church wedding, and all it entails, from providing your baptism certificate to choosing between confetti and biodegradable rice. Then there are such items as who sits where, ushers, bridesmaids, best men, flower girls, music, wardrobe, hairstyles, flowers, and rings. Not to mention the vows. And all the rehearsals. 

There's the reception. Finding the right venue and the right caterers can be a really stressful task. Then you have to plan the menu, the bar and the service, all the while hoping against hope that everything comes out okay. Not to mention the wedding cake!

There's the photographer. And do you want stills and videos too? What kind of transportation will you use? What about the invitations; how to know what to put on them, who to invite? What about all the other vendors? 

Are you getting the picture yet? The above list shows only the tip of the iceberg. The myriad chores involved in completing just one of those tasks is enough to make one elope to Las Vegas or Mexico!

In fact, the only reason you might hold back on hiring awedding planner is your budget, but that reasoning is not well thought out. A professionalwedding planner not only has the know-how and the contacts to get you the best deals around, but also will hold you to your original budget with an iron will and the experience to back it up. Without someone like this on your side, things can get out of hand pretty fast.

Make your dream wedding a memory to cherish forever, not a nightmare full of stressful problems to solve. Awedding planner will stick with you through thick and thin and be a shield and a comfort, so you can relax and enjoy the best day of your life!


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The image of nuptials on a tropical beach on the warm sand is a fantastic wedding picture. Having your closest friends and family multiplies that pretty picture to a masterpiece that many couples dream of. Being a mobile wedding dj for over 30 years I have come across many different scenarios that might not be considered when looking to hire a Toronto destination wedding DJ.

As with any of my potential clients I always suggest meeting with your wedding professional . If it a large company that has several different wedding DJs make sure that you are able to meet the dj that will be responsible for YOUR specific wedding. If you are unable to have face-to-face meeting there are still several internet streaming options such as Skype.

If you have met with your Toronto wedding dj the next step should be the music. For instance you should always book a professional event dj that specializes in all the music that you , your partner , your family and your guest will want to hear. In my biased opinion there is NOTHING more important than the right music for your ceremony, dinner , cocktails and reception. Leaving that up to a CD or iPod playlist is really setting yourself up for failure.

The cost of hiring a Toronto destination wedding Dj is a bit different than a local one. Locally the dj will have their transportation budgeted into you pricing . For a destination wedding a couple will be responsible for flight , transportation and a minimum one to two night stay at the resort.

Another cost that is sometimes forgotten is the cost of equipment. Your local Toronto wedding DJ has the same weight restrictions that you do so they won’t be able to bring all of their wedding dj equipment when they travel. They may have previously worked at you destination wedding venue and have procedures in place but usually it is clients responsibility to secure the equipment for the ceremony and reception. There are wedding destination resorts that sometimes inflate the pricing for use of their equipment. Be wary and have a contract to avoid any hidden fees.

When you are looking for an experienced destination wedding dj feel free to consider me 

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A destination wedding is a wedding that takes place in a location that is not home to the couple or their families. Couples may choose a location that they have always wanted to visit for the location of their destination wedding. The couple may also opt to have their wedding in the location of their honeymoon so that there honeymoon will start immediately after the wedding. There are certain advantages and disadvantages to having a destination wedding. One of the most defining advantages is the ability to have a wedding in a beautiful and exotic location. Another advantage to a destination wedding is that if you choose to honeymoon in the same location you will first of all already be at your honeymoon location at the conclusion of the wedding and furthermore you will likely receive a discount on your honeymoon stay because you have already had your wedding at the location. One of the distinct disadvantages of a destination wedding is that the planning process can be difficult and that you are often unable to fully enjoy the planning process. Another disadvantage to destination weddings is that they are typically not well attended due to the fact that travel is expensive. A destination wedding can be used as the opportunity to enjoy a trip with close friends in a convenient location. The following are a few tips for turning your destination wedding into a fun-filed extended weekend for your guests.

Choosing a scenic location for your destination wedding can offer your guests a variety of fun activities to participate in either before or after your wedding. The couple could choose to have their wedding on a resort, ranch or at a ski resort and there are a wide variety of activities available for the couple to participate in. Some of these activities include tours, skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing and hiking.

A destination wedding is basically a wedding and vacation combination. The key to hosting a great destination wedding is to choose a location that provides your guests with a beautiful background as well as a wealth of activities to keep them entertained for at least a few days. Although a destination wedding may sound perfect, it is important to realize that there are a few downsides to hosting a destination wedding. One problem is that many guests will decline your invitation because they are either unable or unwilling to travel for the wedding. This can also work to your advantage by limiting the number of guests as well. While you may be disappointed if close friends decline your wedding invitation, you are likely to be relieved that you do not have to pay for distant relatives or casual acquaintances at your wedding. The advantage, however, to a destination wedding is that the couple does not have to travel for their honeymoon and that the guests have the luxury of spending a few day in an exotic location.

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Quality is the first thing that you need to look for in an item that could potentially be an heirloom. Without quality construction, no item will last long enough to be in the family for generations to come.

Timelessness is another aspect to consider. When choosing items that you’d like to pass down to your children and grand children try to avoid fads and trends. Chances are, it will be a few generations before they will come back into style again.

A very easy way to start a tradition that will stay in the family is with jewelry. Do you know a woman who doesn’t own a piece of jewelry with a story behind it? A good story is the start of a lasting heirloom. It’s a perfect place to begin.

Just imagine yourself in 10 years, sitting on your couch with your children while you’re flipping through the photo album from your wedding day. And in all of the photos, you are wearing a Swarovski Three Point Necklace , a stunning pair of cufflinks or even a tie pin that sparkles beautifully, and is the finishing touch that really makes your day prince or princess for the day .

Now imagine yourself in 30 years, standing with your child on his or her special day. Both of you are absolutely overwhelmed with anticipation for the events to come and cherishing every moment. You have tied each bow and buttoned each tiny button they are almost ready to go down the aisle when you present your gift that you wore on your big day ,NOW everything is ready !

You can make these moments happen starting today and lasting for a lifetime, not only for you but the people that you love the most!

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A proposal would never be complete without an engagement ring. Engagement rings have been part of the tradition of countries all over the world. Engagement rings symbolize love and commitment to the person given with it.

Most engagement rings come with diamonds from various sizes and no other stone can be placed with it. It has been interpreted that the round and never ending shape of the ring symbolizes the never-ending love and devotion to a partner. It is also a sign of offering ones commitment to the other .

There are many types of engagement rings that are sold in the market. However, there are things that need to be considered before buying one like the type of ring, the diamond, the trends that are in the market and even the value. When choosing an engagement ring, these are the things that buyers need to check on.

The diamond of the engagement ring should be considered before all things. There are four areas to look for in a good diamond. They are the cut, clarity, colour and carat. 

When the cut is considered, it simply means the number of angles that are in the diamond including their proportions. The cut gives luster to the diamond. The fire or the shine of the diamond will depend on how many cuts are in it. The more cuts in the diamond, the more costly it becomes.

Diamonds are coloured yellow in nature. The colourless ones are considered to be the most expensive and the most sought for diamonds. These colourless diamonds are very rare, which is why they are priced higher than the yellow ones. When considering an engagement ring, it is better to choose one that has a colourless diamond.

Clarity of diamonds refers to the impurities that are in them. These impurities resulted from pressure, heat, and rock sedimentation for over thousands of years. Clarity of a diamond could not be judged using the naked eyes. However, those diamonds that are priced higher are considerably high in clarity.

Acquiring an engagement ring may be done through cash or credit in jewelry stores. There are various types that are sold and some may come in installment plans. When buying from a jewelry store, the name and the credibility of the store should be considered. This will ensure that the engagement ring is authentic and has a very good quality. There are also engagement rings that can be found in pawnshops where great savings are guaranteed.

There are also some who use an inherited ring as engagement rings. These may be rings that were passed over generations. Those who have inherited these rings are considered fortunate since they surely saved thousands of dollars plus, they were able to impress their partner with this romantic approach.

Engagement rings come in different trends and styles. This will depend on the taste of the person who selected a specific engagement ring. There are some who prefer the classic or the antique types of engagement rings. On the other hand, many prefer the trendy ones. The trend nowadays includes platinum and white gold for rings.

You should not forget the commitment that comes with an engagement ring, no matter the price, the style or how large the diamond is in the ring. The symbol engagement rings carry should not be forgotten. It does not matter whether a ring is expensive or not, what matters is the commitment to love and devotion that should be kept once a ring is offered your partner. 


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Dreaming of having the perfect wedding is what every couple wish for and why wouldn’t they with all the time and effort they put into the preparations. Wedding plans and what goes on behind the scenes is very time consuming. Things like ordering the wedding bands, gown,suits and securing the date for the reception hall and chapel can all prove to be an ordeal, but if carefully thought out instead of leaving arrangements like this to the last minute then you can be sure of a smooth road ahead. 
Sometimes it is the little things that are overlooked that can cause the whole event to go pear shaped and one being is the absence of a centrepiece. Wedding centrepieces are beautiful embellishments that are extremely important. These eye catching pieces of work will add beauty where ever they are placed.
Centrepieces do not have to be the centre of attention on the day but if displayed with perfection in mind then expect surrounding areas to send out volumes of high tone attractiveness especially if the centrepiece is flowers.
Classical yet simple wedding centrepieces intend to evolve round flowers and ornaments. Flowers without doubt are a hot favourite for couples tying the knot because of the way the nature blooms add colour and project a lingering natural fragranced aroma. Check availability on flowers because they are seasonal and therefore your choice may have to be shipped in from another country.
Have an organizer come in early to arrange all flower displays; this will give you time to satisfy your curiosity of how they will look. Remember wrong blossoms can do more harm taking away beauty instead of enhancing it. Other ideal options for a wedding centrepiece are silver candelabras. If you are considering floating candles in a glass bowl then you have a guarantee of a pretty enough sight to take the limelight.
Depending on where you marry centrepieces will differ, if the wedding ceremony is to be held in the garden then consider nature for your theme. Miniature birdhouses and flower baskets are fabulous items that can be used.
If after all those months of scrimping and scraping and you find your self still counting the pennies then budget wisely but do not freakout. Have fresh fruit, just as sweet smelling as flowers but this way you get the best of both worlds where you have a centre piece juicy enough to eat.

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There are two aspects of wedding music that need to be addressed when planning your big day. First, you may wish to select certain music or arrange for professional DJ or musicians to play during the actual wedding ceremony. But at the wedding reception, it’s pretty much anything goes when it comes to selecting wedding music, provided it’s tasteful.

Right away is the time to plan your wedding music. Good talent gets booked fast and you don’t want to end up having to select the brand new DJ with only a few weddings under his or her belt or something even worse. Booking your music entertainment a full year in advance is advisable but at a minimum, you should know who will be showing up and what he or she will be playing at least six months prior to the wedding date.

For most weddings, selecting the music for the wedding ceremony isn’t that complicated because most often, has been planned by the wedding couple. When you’re researching your wedding ceremony options, be sure to inquire about any guidelines with respect to wedding ceremony music as these could possibly impact your decision. If the ceremony is being held outdoors, check for electrical hook-ups at your venue or book live musicians.

Wedding music during the ceremony is basically secondary to the ceremony itself so the music is really meant to sort of ‘fill in the gaps’ during the non-speaking periods such as while guests are being seated, during the procession, while lighting the unity candles and of course the recessional. Of course, it’s your wedding and it can be custom-designed.

The music that’s played at the reception, however, is going to mean the difference between a successful reception and one that’s ho-hum. And this is where things can start to get complicated. When you begin searching for wedding reception music, you’ll realize rather quickly that you have a lot of options. You can book a live band, or a DJ that’ll play pre-recorded music, or you can buy that CD full of top wedding songs and have someone act as the DJ. The later leaves little or no control and isn’t really suggested since the person is not actually a professional.

It’s important that you both agree on the type of wedding music you want played at your reception. There are ‘traditional’ songs that almost always are played at certain points during the reception such as the father/daughter dance, the cake cutting, the dollar dance and so on. And then there is all the music in between. Do you want Jazz, Country, R&B, New age, Italian, Latin, Jewish-inspired, or a little bit of everything? That’s an important decision to make because the DJ you select has to be able to deliver what you want or you won’t be happy.

Try to book experienced professionals for your wedding music. If booking live talent, arrange to hear a live performance before booking. Scrutinize the contract before signing to make sure all parties agree on the number of hours music will be provided and that everything that has been agreed to is in writing. Find out the cancellation and refund policy, too. At the end of the day a contract will clarify all parties roles and protect everyone involved.
​
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It is my recommendation that you order your Wedding Invitations at least four weeks prior to mailing them out to your guests.  This will allow you plenty of time to receive your Wedding Invitations and double check your order to make sure you have received everything you ordered and no mistakes were made.  It will allow you enough time for a reprint is needed.  It will also allow you plenty of time to address all the envelopes.

Wedding Invitations should be mailed out so that your guest will receive them at least  six to eight weeks prior to the Wedding.  This will allow your guest enough time to make travel plans and return the respond card you included with your Wedding Invitation.  Typically the respond by date should be two weeks prior to your wedding date.  This should allow you enough time to make your final preparations.

You will have many other things to take care of as your wedding approaches and the last thing you need is to have to rush to get your wedding invitations addressed and mailed out.  There will undoubtedly be last minute names to add and address changes to deal with so please allow yourself plenty of time to accomplish this task.
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The announcement of your engagement to your future life partner is the precursor to the wedding itself. For a person who is deeply in love, the importance of the engagement ring takes on a great significance as the engagement ring is a forbearer of sorts for the wedding ring. The engagement ring does not and should not be relegated to an inferior ring when compared with the wedding ring.

So when you are getting engaged, it is important for you to consider some tips on getting your best engagement ring.

What then is the best engagement ring?

Your engagement is a declaration to the whole world that you are a couple in love, and are making a public announcement that you are serious or going steady with a view to getting married shortly.

Most if not all couples getting engaged would like their engagement ring to represent such a beautiful declaration of love. Many take the engagement ring as the surety of commitment, and as long as the engagement ring is on their finger, they are keeping themselves solely for each other, and can appear as an "item".

In choosing their engagement ring, they would have to decide on the material they would want their engagement ring to be structured from. Some would like to have it in gold, with diamonds, or some in white gold or silver, but by and large, this would be decided based on the question of affordability.

An engagement ring can be of any precious metal with infilled gemstones, including jade or diamonds, but more important than that is the design of the ring. Connotations of love, symbols of enduring love can be designed on the ring. 

If the engagement ring is a pre-made or jeweller's designed engagement ring, then it is important to buy that engagement ring from reputable jewellers to avoid being overcharged by unscrupulous dealers who treat this as a once-off purchase, and so take the opportunity to jack up the price.

When you purchase your engagement ring from a reputable and honest jeweller, you can be sure of a realistic price as he will want to be your choice dealer when it comes to your actual wedding, and hopefully can be your family jeweller, and to supply all your jewellery needs in the future.

So when it comes to the engagement ring, first settle on the design, then settle on the expenditure, then make sure you purchase your engagement ring from the most reputable jewellery in town.

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One of the most challenging things about getting married is finding and hiring the wedding vendors.  However large or small their roles may be, they will have a significant impact in the overall outcome of your wedding day. Because of this, it is imperative to take your time and follow some very simple steps to ensure you are hiring quality and reputable wedding professionals that you can trust. As you will soon discover, there is really no shortage of wedding vendors in any given category. The goal is finding the professional that is right for you, not only with product, service and price, but with personality as well. The search for wedding day vendors can begin in a number of places. Knowing where to look and what to look for will assist you in your search. The following are suggestions as to where you may begin the search for your vendors.
Bridal Shows 
The greatest value in bridal shows is the opportunity to meet with a large number of wedding vendors and view many products at one time, in one location. There are many categories of vendors represented at the shows, making it an invaluable tool for doing research and for gathering wedding-related information. When you find vendors you particularly interested in, make a note of it and call soon after the show to book a personal one on one appointment. 
Ceremony and Reception Location 
The locations you select for your wedding day are quite familiar with particular vendors, and usually have a preferred vendor list. The vendors on this list have worked at that site many times before and are familiar with the logistics and rules of the location. 
Friends and Family 
You will usually get honest no nonsense answers and opinions regarding products and services when you ask married friends and family members (even co-workers) about their own weddings. Ask them about their vendors, the services they used, what they liked and didn’t like, would they hire them again, etc.? 
The Internet
The Internet is an easy access, easy to use, anytime resource. You can find a wealth of vendors on the web. Checking out a vendor’s web site can give you a good idea of pricing, packages, and type of work they do before making a personal appointment.
Local Bridal Magazines 
Using local wedding magazines and directories can at first seem overwhelming, as there are a large number of advertisements in these publications. You can, however, find excellent vendors in the magazines, but it will take some calling around to acquaint yourself with these vendors. 
Wedding Planners/Consultants 
Wedding consultants have several pre-established relationships with local vendors. If you are working with a consultant, she should be able to provide you with preferred vendor list. However, if you are not working with a consultant, you can still benefit from this knowledge, as most consultants will share their preferred vendor list with you for a fee. 
Conclusion 
Once you have made your final decisions, you must get a written contract. Call the vendor to confirm the details and ask for a contract to be sent to you. A contract is the best way of ensuring you and the vendor understand what is expected, as it should outline specifics such as dates, times, names, and types of services/products provided. It will also spell out payment plans, refund and cancellation policies. It behooves (I always wanted to use that in a sentence) you to read and understand the contract. Do not assume you have secured a vendor for your wedding day until you have a contract that is signed by you and the vendor. And finally remember, part of getting the most from a vendor’s service is also being a good client and providing the vendors with the payments and other requested information in a timely manner. 

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The question of who will get to take home the centrepiece can sometimes be a central discussion at reception dinner tables, particularly if the centrepiece is particularly pretty or original.

Making an Interactive game of who gets the centrepiece can be an amusing diversion and one many guests will enjoy participating in. Here are some ideas for giving away that reception table centrepiece :

How about a game of 20 questions? Give each guest a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. The MC or DJ asks a series of 20 questions, but first gives the guests the basic background information, that is, that the answer is an animal, place, person or thing. Once that’s taken care of, people can shout out questions and the MC or DJ will answer yes or no, and whoever figures out the answer first gets the first centerpiece, and that particular table is done playing. The game is repeated until one person at each table has won the centrepiece.

One of the most popular ways brides give away the table centrepiece is to put a number on the bottom of the centrepiece and give each guest a number. At some point in the evening, a number is called, each guest checks his or her number and whoever has the called number gets the centerpiece. There are many ways to put a twist on this traditional activity.

For example, you might provide each table with a number, but make it a lower number (ie. between 1 and 10) and theDJ or MC could move from table to table and have each guest do something a certain number of times. So, at the first table, for example, the guests might need to do “head, shoulders, knees and toes” six times and whoever does it first gets the centrepiece. Or, at the second table, the guests might be required to sing the alphabet 3 times or sing “twinkle, twinkle, little star” three times and whoever does that first get the centerpiece.

Another fun activity for divvying up the centrepieces is to require guests to produce a certain item. The DJ or MC moves from table to table, announcing what guests at that table will be required to produce in order to get the centrepiece. Maybe it’s a American quarter or a mint, or a doctor’s appointment card. Whatever it is, the guest at each table who produces the requested item will get the centrepiece.

You can always make it easy and offer the centrepiece to the oldest person at the table, or the one who took the most number of years to finish college. Perhaps you could create an activity where the person who has the strangest talent (as voted on by the tablemates) wins the centrepiece. Then, if possible, that person might show off the talent for the entire reception party.

If you like musical chairs, you can play a game of musical dollar bills in order to give the centrepiece away. Someone takes out a one-dollar bill and music begins playing. Everyone at the table passes the dollar bill around the table and when the music stops, whoever is left holding the bill gets the centrepiece. Or this game can be played a bit more traditionally with the person with the bill being eliminated, and the game continuing until only one person is holding the bill. That person can then be awarded with the centerpiece. Or, for a fun twist, the bill can be passed around and when the music stops, the person holding the bill is told to return it to the person who first supplied it. That is the person who gets the centrepiece.

Some fun, and fairly traditional, ideas include the birthday person getting the centrepiece. At each table, the person who has a birthday closest to the wedding gets the centrepiece. Or if there are married couples at the table, the couple who have been together the longest can get the centrepiece, or the couple who were married most recently. Perhaps the centrepiece should go to the person with the longest hair, or the strangest shoes (again, this would be voted on by tablemates).

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Delivering a wedding speech is an incredible honour, but it can also be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not used to public speaking. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honour, or a proud parent, the pressure to deliver the perfect speech can feel overwhelming.

​Don’t worry—these nine practical tips will help you calm your nerves and deliver a memorable wedding speech with confidence.

1. Remember: The Audience Is on Your Side

Everyone in the room is rooting for you! Guests at a wedding aren’t there to critique your speech—they’re there to celebrate the happy couple. Anything you say will be listened to with kindness and respect. A simple joke or heartfelt remark is all it takes to win them over, as wedding audiences are often eager to laugh and connect.

2. Practise, Practise, Practise

Rehearsing your speech is the key to success. The more you practise, the more comfortable you’ll feel on the big day. Pay attention to your tone, pauses, and pacing during your practice sessions. Showing effort in your preparation ensures that even small mistakes will be easily forgiven.

3. Memorize Your Speech

Learn your speech by heart to build confidence. Practise it whenever you have spare time—while commuting, in the shower, or before bed. Knowing your speech inside and out will reduce anxiety and help you focus on delivering it with emotion and authenticity.

4. Don’t Forget to Breathe

It sounds simple, but breathing correctly is often overlooked. Practice diaphragmatic breathing, a technique used by singers and speakers, to stay calm. Plan where you’ll pause to take a breath during your speech. Deep, steady breathing will help keep your nerves in check.

5. Think of a Happy Memory Before You Start

Visualizing a funny or uplifting memory can help you relax before speaking. It doesn’t have to be hilarious—just something that makes you smile and puts you in a positive state of mind. A lighthearted energy will naturally improve your delivery.

6. Eat a Banana 20 Minutes Before Speaking

This tried-and-true trick is often used by professional speakers. Bananas are packed with nutrients that calm your nerves and provide an energy boost, helping you feel steady and focused.

7. Slow Down and Speak Clearly

Nervousness can make you rush through your speech. Take a deep breath, slow down, and articulate each word clearly. Speaking too quickly can make it harder for guests to follow along, so aim for a relaxed pace.

8. Make Eye Contact

Connect with your audience by making eye contact. This makes your speech feel more personal and conversational. Instead of addressing the crowd as a whole, imagine you’re chatting with friends and family members individually.

9. Have Fun and Enjoy the Moment

Remember, your speech doesn’t have to be perfect! The audience is there to celebrate, not to judge. Relax, smile, and savour the moment. Even if you make a mistake, it’ll be forgotten in seconds. Focus on the joy of the occasion and let yourself have fun.

Celebrate Your Moment

Delivering a wedding speech may feel intimidating, but with preparation and the right mindset, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Follow these tips to calm your nerves, connect with the audience, and enjoy every moment of your special role.
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At DJ XTC Entertainment, we understand the importance of creating unforgettable wedding moments. Whether it’s wedding speeches, DJ services, or MC entertainment, we’re here to help you make the big day as seamless and memorable as possible.

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​Bridal showers are more than just a pre-wedding tradition—they’re a chance to celebrate the bride-to-be and bring her closest friends and family together. Games play a big role in creating a fun, interactive atmosphere while encouraging bonding between guests. Whether you're the host or helping plan, here are 10 exciting bridal shower game ideas that will leave everyone laughing and making memories.

1. Name Tag Game

Encourage mingling with this interactive game! Write each guest’s name and a wedding-related word (like “veil” or “groom”) on their name tag. The goal is to avoid saying the word on your own tag while trying to get others to say theirs. The guest with the most collected tags at the end wins!

2. The Purse Game

List common and uncommon items typically found in a purse. Assign points to each item (e.g., 1 for keys, 5 for an eyelash curler). Guests earn points for the items they have. Add bonus points for the most outrageous item! A variation involves calling out items one by one, with the first to produce each item earning points.

3. Television or Famous Couples Game

Test guests’ knowledge of famous duos! Provide the first names of TV couples (e.g., George and Jane) and ask guests to guess their last name (Jetson). You can also include real-life celebrity or political couples like Bill and Hillary Clinton. Award points for correct answers, with extra for obscure references.

4. Bridal Shower Bingo

A classic! Replace bingo numbers with wedding-themed words like “rings,” “eternal,” or “bouquet.” As the host calls out words, guests mark their cards. The first to complete a row, column, or diagonal wins!

5. The Who Am I Game

Tape a picture of a romantic character or celebrity to each guest’s back. They must ask yes/no questions to figure out who they are. This interactive game guarantees plenty of laughs and conversations.

6. The Wedding Jumble

Prepare a list of scrambled wedding-related words (e.g., “uotvs” for vows). Guests have a set time to unscramble them, and the person with the most correct answers wins. For a tie, the fastest finisher takes the prize!

7. Wedding Day Obstacle Course

Turn wedding prep into a fun challenge! Create an obstacle course with tasks like wrapping a wedding favour, addressing an envelope, or assembling a centrepiece. Time each guest, and whoever completes the tasks fastest wins. Bonus: the bride gets help with her to-do list!

8. Bridal Shower Memory Game

Fill a tray with household items. Show it to guests for a few moments, then remove it and ask questions about the items or even the person carrying the tray. This twist keeps guests on their toes and is always a hit!

9. The Price is Right Game

Showcase 10 useful household items and have guests guess their prices. The closest guess wins! Bonus: the bride keeps the items for her new home.

10. Prize Drawing with a Practical Twist

Ask guests to fill out envelopes with their names and addresses to enter a prize drawing. Not only do participants enjoy the chance to win a small gift, but the bride can use the envelopes to send out thank-you notes.

Make It Memorable

Bridal shower games are a fantastic way to break the ice, spark conversations, and help guests get to know each other. Many of these games also serve practical purposes, like assisting the bride with tasks or gifting her useful items. Whether you choose classic games or creative twists, your bridal shower will be a hit!

At DJ XTC Entertainment, we specialize in creating memorable wedding experiences, from bridal showers to the big day itself. Let us help make your celebration extraordinary.

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2. Build Charm and Communication Skills

​As the face of your business and the representative of your clients, impeccable communication is a must. Building strong relationships with vendors, venues, and clients will directly impact your reputation. The ability to adapt to different personalities and diffuse tense situations is a hallmark of a great wedding planner.

3. Hone Your Negotiation Skills

​Couples rely on you to find the best services within their budget. Whether it’s flowers, catering, or photography, you must negotiate great deals without compromising quality. Building professional relationships with vendors will not only enhance your reputation but also open doors to discounts you can pass on to your clients.

4. Master Money Management

​Budgeting is a key aspect of wedding planning. You’ll need to manage both your business finances and your clients’ budgets with precision. Experience in handling household or business finances will serve you well when tracking expenses, negotiating contracts, and ensuring nothing is overspent.

5. Stay Organized

From venues and themes to flowers, food, and photography, wedding planning requires juggling countless details. Keeping track of deadlines, contracts, and schedules is essential. Your calendar and organizational tools will become your best allies in ensuring every wedding goes off without a hitch.

6. Be Knowledgeable About Trends and Traditions

​Successful wedding planners stay up-to-date on bridal trends, colour schemes, fashion, and even music playlists. Additionally, understanding different religious ceremonies and cultural traditions allows you to cater to diverse clients. A keen eye for design and a wealth of knowledge about weddings will set you apart in the industry.

7. Keep a Sense of Humour

​Wedding planning comes with its fair share of challenges, from indecisive couples to last-minute crises. Maintaining your sense of humour and staying grounded will help you navigate these situations with grace. A positive attitude keeps stress levels low for everyone involved

​The Path to Success
Starting a wedding planning business is a journey of learning and growth. Each wedding you plan will sharpen your skills and expand your expertise. While perfection comes with practice, embracing these seven skills will help you create unforgettable experiences for your clients.

At DJ XTC Entertainment, we’ve spent decades creating magical moments for couples in Toronto and the GTA. From professional DJ and MC services to lighting and entertainment, we’re here to make every celebration extraordinary.

Stay Connected:🌐 Website: www.TheTorontoWeddingDJ.com
📬 Newsletter: bit.ly/djxtcweddingtips
​
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1. Wedding Photography and Videography

Capturing your wedding moments professionally is non-negotiable. While the cost of a wedding photographer can range from $1,000 to $3,000, relying on a friend or relative isn’t the solution. Wedding photos and videos are priceless keepsakes that allow you to relive your big day for years to come.

Budget Tip: 
Reach out to local photography clubs or hobbyist photographers who might offer competitive rates. Book them for a pre-wedding session or engagement shoot first to ensure their style meets your expectations.

2. Wedding Venue
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Choosing the right venue sets the tone for your celebration. While hosting your wedding at home may save money, it’s essential to consider your guests' comfort. A cramped space can cause guests to leave early, cutting the fun short.

Budget Tip:
Look for venues that offer discounts for off-season or weekday weddings. Select a location that complements your wedding theme, ensuring it’s memorable without breaking the bank.

3. Flowers

Wedding flowers can be surprisingly expensive, and it’s easy to overspend if you’re not careful. Some vendors may use “less fresh” blooms on your wedding day, so choose your florist wisely.

Budget Tip:
Opt for flowers that are in season to reduce costs. Alternatively, consider a garden wedding where the natural surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop without the need for extra floral arrangements.

4. DJ and Entertainment

The two most common wedding complaints? Bad food and poor entertainment. Don’t let subpar entertainment ruin your day. Hiring a professional DJ or entertainer is crucial for creating an enjoyable and lively atmosphere.

Budget Tip:
Experienced part-time DJs and entertainers can deliver the same high-quality service as full-time professionals at a more affordable rate. Do your research to find someone who fits your vision and budget.

Plan Your Dream Budget Wedding
With proper planning, you can save up to 50% on your wedding costs without compromising on quality. The key is to focus on aspects that enhance the experience for you and your guests, ensuring your special day is as unforgettable as it is budget-friendly.
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DJ XTC Entertainment is here to provide top-tier wedding DJ, MC, and lighting services in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and across the GTA. Our team of professionals will help make your wedding the celebration of a lifetime.

🌐 Website: www.TheTorontoWeddingDJ.com
📬 Newsletter: bit.ly/djxtcweddingtips
📷 Follow us on social media:
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1. Meet Your DJ in Person

The first step in choosing the right DJ is scheduling a face-to-face (or virtual) meeting. This is your opportunity to gauge their professionalism, expertise, and understanding of your vision. A great DJ isn’t just about playing music—they're about creating an atmosphere. If you don’t feel that personal connection or trust during your meeting, it might be time to look elsewhere.

At DJ XTC Entertainment Services, we believe in building relationships with our clients to ensure your big day reflects your unique style.

2. Hire a Professional Wedding DJ

Experience matters when it comes to wedding entertainment. While some DJs may charge less, they often lack the skills, equipment, or dedication that professional DJs bring to the table. A professional DJ is committed to perfecting their craft, constantly learning and growing to provide exceptional service.

At DJ XTC Entertainment, our team includes seasoned professionals who specialise in weddings, MC services, and event lighting across Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and the GTA.

3. Always Have a Binding Contract

A written contract is a non-negotiable when booking a DJ. It outlines the terms and expectations, ensuring there’s no room for misunderstandings. This gives you peace of mind and guarantees that your DJ is just as committed to your event as you are.

We pride ourselves on transparent agreements that clearly define what you can expect from our services.

4. Choose DJs with Professional Equipment and Backup Plans

There’s nothing worse than technical issues ruining the flow of your wedding reception. Professional DJs invest in high-quality equipment and always have backups on hand. From sound systems to microphones and lighting, having reliable gear ensures your celebration is flawless from start to finish.

At DJ XTC Entertainment, we use premium equipment and have additional staff and gear ready to step in should the unexpected occur.

5. Work with Insured Entertainers

​Accidents happen, even at weddings. Hiring an insured DJ protects you, your guests, and your venue. It’s an added layer of security that shows your entertainer values professionalism and safety.
Our team is fully insured, so you can rest easy knowing your event is in safe hands.

Why Choose DJ XTC Entertainment?At DJ XTC Entertainment, we go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable weddings and events in Toronto and the GTA. Our award-winning services include:

• Professional wedding DJs and MCs
• Customized playlists to match your vision
• Stunning lighting to elevate your event ambiance
• Reliable contracts, top-notch equipment, and full insurance coverage

Let us turn your wedding into the celebration of a lifetime. Contact us today to discuss your needs and secure your date!

Stay Connected:
 Newsletter:  bit.ly/djxtcweddingtips 
🌐 Website: www.TheTorontoWeddingDJ.com

📷 Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @TorontoWeddingDJ
Facebook: DJ XTC Entertainment
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