Oklahoma City
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The Do's - Plan, Organize, Activate & Coordinate

Top Ten Ways to a Better Love Life

• Life is what happens when you're not looking, right? Keep your love alive even while coping with the busiest of schedules by picking up a few good habits, making the most of the time you have together.
• Don't leave home without it! Kiss your partner before leaving home. Add a hug while you're at it! Two minutes that start your day off right. And, don't forget to kiss them when you come home!
• Keep that date! If you don't have a regular date night every week, create one. Don't lose your identity as a couple.
• Conserve energy. Shower together and save water. Plus, this is even better than looking in a mirror for keeping those unwanted pounds off.
• Give each other a break. When you come home, give each other 30 minutes to unwind quietly and leave work behind.
• Return to the table. Eat dinner at the table without TV as a distraction.
• Play soft music, and really enjoy dinner together. Don't let chores get in the way. Try to break up chores so you don't end up trying to do everything on the weekend.
• Wanna do lunch? Have lunch together once a week. Especially if you have children, this will provide time together without interruptions. On days you can't lunch together, use this time to get some of your errands done.
• Prepare the night before. Do you start your day stressed out trying to find clothes that are pressed, getting your family's gear together, etc? Lay out as much as you can the night before so you can actually enjoy breakfast with your partner and family.
• Don't be a slave to the kitchen. If you are a two-career couple, eat your heavier, more traditional meal at lunch, and eat light at dinner. Not only will this be healthier for you, but it will save you time cooking and cleaning, so you can spend more time doing things you both enjoy.
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Top Ten Ways to Save You $$$ on your Oklahoma Wedding...

• Priorities
  Before you begin planning your wedding and reception, sit down together and discuss your top five priorities. This will help to determine where to go all out, and where you can cut corners. If it is important to you that the wedding and reception be held at the restaurant that you went to on your first date or you know you must have a specific designer gown or a certain DJ that you really like, then you can fit that into your budget and decide to save money in other areas.
  
• Guest List
  Keeping the guest list as concise as possible can help to drastically reduce reception costs. Most caterers, restaurants and banquet halls charge per person, so the difference between 100 guests and 150 will be significant. Don't invite more guests than you can spend one minute of time with. If you invite 300 guests spending one minute with each would take over five hours. And that's not including time to eat, dance and have a good time!
  
• Food
  Food can be the biggest expense at a wedding. Strategies to save on food and catering include choosing to have a buffet instead of a sit-down meal, or hosting a high tea, dessert reception, brunch or luncheon instead of a multi-course dinner. Or consider drop-off catering, where the caterer delivers already prepared food and sets it up. Catering all, or part of the reception, on your own is another possibility.
  
• Location
  There are many options for low-cost or no-cost locations including local and national parks, forest preserves, your own backyard or that of a friend or relative. Also consider a location that offers an all-inclusive package on the wedding, reception, and sometimes the honeymoon too. Choosing to have the wedding during an off-season or on any day but Saturday will also help to cut costs.
• Wedding Attire
  A few creative money-saving alternatives to shopping at a traditional bridal salon include purchasing a gown at an outlet, a department store in the special occasions off-the-rack area, buying a vintage or once-worn gown and purchasing a traditional gown through the Discount Bridal Service (DBS). Also consider bidding for a gown online at an auction site, renting a gown, redoing a mother or mother-in-law's dress or wearing a designer suit.
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Accessories to Make Your Day Really Special

Choosing Your Wedding Cake in Oklahoma City

• How many guests?
• What's your budget?
• How many tiers or what type of design?
• What colors and decorations should be included ?
• Will you be using as a cake top?
• Will the cake be the main dessert or will it be part of a sweet table?

Here are some tips:
What do I need to do? Simple steps:

• your cake should be ordered 6-8 weeks in advance
• take along your sketches, ideas, pictures pulled from magazines
• take samples of your colors to leave with the pastry chef

Remember that the more elaborate the cake, the higher the cost. Also, the number of guests will affect the price. You'll also have to pay for delivery and set-up and the cost of the cake top, flowers and embellishments which will adorn the cake.
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Choosing your Oklahoma City DJ

• If you have never hired a disc jockey before, you will most likely find that prices for a DJ vary greatly. In 1999, Modern Bride did a national survey of brides AFTER the wedding. They found that the average budget for a wedding in the United States was approximately $19,500. The Modern Bride's survey went on to ask two very important questions, that compared the most important factor that contributed to the success of the reception with the costs associated in the budget for reception as a whole (see illustration below).
• Most bridal consultants and publications that focus on budgeting suggest that you allocate 5-10% of your total wedding budget for the entertainment. This means that if you are spending $10,000 on your wedding, you should allow $500-$1000 for the reception entertainment. If you are spending $20,000, $1,000-$2000 is suggested for the reception entertainment. In the survey listed below, most brides allocated closer to 4% for entertainment, but freely admitted that the most important factor that contributed to the success of the reception was the entertainment.
  
• So what conclusion should you draw from this information? If you look at the results of the survey, the amount of money allocated in the budget for the entertainment was a very small amount compared to the rest of the reception expenditures. When determining how much to budget for the reception entertainment, we think it is important to evaluate your priorities, and answer one important question: "Is it worth it to attempt to save $100, $200, or even $300 on the cost of entertainment, when clearly, this is the most important factor that contributes to the success of the reception"? Only you can answer this question.
• When you begin to call entertainers to inquire about their services, it is important to note that, generally speaking, the more experienced Emcees will be a little more expensive. In our region of the country, the cost for entertainment varies by a significant margin. It can become confusing for the consumer to determine which entertainment company can best suit their needs. It is up to you to evaluate your priorities, research the options you have available and select the entertainment company that will make your reception a success.
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Choosing Your Oklahoma City Photographer

1. Photographic Style - Do you like the photographer's photographic style. When you see portfolio of previous work he/she has done, can you picture yourself in that specific photographic style. Would you like yourself photographed in the same way? Is there enough variety in the photographer's style to give you the pictures you want.
   
2. Experience - Make sure the photographer has had experience professionally photographing other weddings. Does he/she do this for a living or as a hobby?
3. Personality - Make sure that the chemistry is there between you and the photographer. You want to make sure that the photographer's personality is there to compliment your special day. Maybe even give you encouragement to strike a pose or feel more comfortable or relaxed.
   
4. Appearance - Is this person well groomed? Ask the photographer how he/she intends to dress. You probably don't want the photographer showing up in jean cut-offs, a t-shirt or looking like a slob.
5. Who will photograph your wedding? Is it the individual who you are dealing with regarding taking the pictures, or will you be getting someone else? Make sure you are getting the individual who's portfolio and/or sample you've seen.
6. Delivery of products - How long does it take to get your proofs back, your bridal portrait, your finished album etc.? Just ask. Some photographers will take months to deliver your proofs. Know the turn around time for everything.
7. Price Range - Make sure you are given all the costs including re-ordering. Are you happy with what is included in the package and the work quality of this photographer? It's worth to pay a little extra to get exactly what you want.
8. Offering - Whether you pick and choose or accept a package designed by them, make sure you understand what you get. Is there any room for changes and will it cost extra to do so? Sometimes the packages are fixed, sometimes they can be customized, in any case, ask. How much time will he/she spend? What if you need more time? Make sure that you know what's coming.
9. What about payments and deposits? What does your contract say about cancellations and the photographer not being there? If you are not sure, ask legal counsel to look it over. If the photographer protests, ask him/her why? This is one area NOT to take lightly. You could be disappointed for a long time.
10. Contract - Do you understand the contract? Is it fair? Is everything spelled out? When it comes down to going to court, only what is written in the contract really matters. Verbal agreements are binding, but nearly impossible to prove 99 times out of 100. Make sure that you are totally comfortable with what you are signing. Don't be afraid to get up and leave if you don't like the contract and he/she is unwilling to change it.
11. References - A personal reference is always the best and people love to talk. Get a list of references from the photographer and check them out personally. A photographer who doesn't have references or is afraid to give them to you may not be the person that you want to hire. Check with the BBB and The Chamber of Commerce. Find out if he or she is a member of any photographic organizations.
Shopping for a wedding photographer is not like selecting a gown or a bridal bouquet. You can see something tangible before you make your decision, when you're shopping for specific items like that. But in the selection of your photographer, you're often at the mercy of a super-salesperson and/or your own intuition. It seems as if PRICE is usually the main determining factor, even though there's NEVER going to be a second chance. Nor has there ever been anything written that gives you, the bride, a true guideline as to how to select the one person who could supply you with a heart full of memories to last a lifetime. I have, therefore, compiled a list of in-depth questions that you may want to explore to help select the photographer who's right for you. Think about them and get answers before placing your trust and faith in someone who might later disappoint you with results that are less than what you had hoped to receive. No one knows better than I what's going on in the wedding photography industry today. I've been a wedding photographer, myself, for the last 7 years or so, and been photographing for over 10 years. I really know the business from the INSIDE OUT! And I want to share it with you here - in the hopes that you will once and for all learn how to be an educated shopper for wedding photography. Start Here First of all, undoubtedly the best way a bride has to prejudge the competency of a wedding photographer is to have a recommendation from someone whose opinion she trusts. If she has more than one recommendation, that's even better - especially if the same photographer's name comes from different sources. Then, a phone call is appropriate. The telephone conversation should begin with the availability of the studio to cover the wedding on your specific date. You should also learn the name of the photographer who would be doing the actual pictures at your wedding, and at least a rough estimate of the costs involved. You should find out on the telephone how the photographer feels about posed and un posed pictures and decide whether or not you agree or are interested in the studio's philosophy of how the wedding photography should be conducted. That is - photojournalism, candid's, portraits, groups, etc. Just one concept? A combination of several? An appointment should be made to meet with the photographer who will be assigned to your wedding, see his work and discuss the details. Without doubt, this meeting should include both the bride and groom as well as the bride's parents...or however many of these people can be assembled for the consultation. Without all these people in attendance it would be virtually impossible to come to any conclusions tt would effectively work for all the principle parties involved. At that meeting the first assessment you should make is whether or not you feel comfortable in the presence of the photographer. If you're going to spend a good part of the most important day of your life with this person, it should be someone with whom you know you'll enjoy sharing that time. Then, I feel that you should see some of the photographer's work. If you see a picture, or a series of pictures, that you really like, you should ask:
12. Who are these people?
13. Did you, personally, take these photographs? May I call these people for a personal reference?
After all, it's one thing to see some beautiful pictures, but it's equally important to find out if the bride and groom ENJOYED working with this photographer. It's also a way of knowing that the photographs you're being shown were actually made by the person you're speaking to. You want to be sure that the work you're admiring was made by the photographer who'll be at your wedding. Another result of this meeting could be to allow you and your photographer to begin a one-on-one relationship. In that way, neither of you would be strangers to each other on the day of the wedding and you'll be more relaxed in front of the camera. Now The Fun Begins For the most part, when prospective clients come to my studio, their questions pertain to prices, sizes and numbers in general. I've often felt that the reason for this is that they've never thought to consider some of the more important questions such as:
14. How do you feel about the bride and groom not wanting to see each other before the ceremony? ---What are the alternatives? ---How will the various plans affect us on the day of the wedding?
15. Do you have any goals for approaching each wedding? ---Any long-term goals for yourself as a person? ---As a photographer?
16. How long do you expect to be with us on the day of the wedding? ---Beginning at what time? ---Until when? ---Is there an extra charge if the wedding runs a little overtime?
17. Whom would you include in the photographs? ---Where and when would they be taken?
18. What can I do to help you perform your duties to the best of your ability?
See a WHOLE Wedding If you're still interested in the photographer's services at this point, I'd ask to see a complete coverage of a single wedding. That's a lot more important than seeing a selection of beautiful highlights from many different weddings. When looking through the album, evaluate the work by placing yourself in the position that this could have been YOUR wedding coverage. Ask yourself if the photographer has actually considered the individual characteristics and personality of each of the important persons in the photographs. Has the photographer caught the individual's actual feelings of the moment, or are these just pictures of people standing and looking self-consciously into the lens. Do they look natural? Or even better than real? And, in fact, is that what you and they really want? Now, THIS Could Be a REAL Test! You might ask the photographer to analyze your face to see if he/she would know how to achieve the most flattering images of you:
19. Considering my facial features, physical attributes in general, what angles of my face would you consider to be better than others? ---Is there anything you can do to make me or members of my family look the way they WANT to look? It seems as if everyone complains that they hate the way they look in posed pictures!
20. Have you noticed any expressions or mannerisms of mine that you might want to try to capture or avoid?
21. How did you get qualified to take professional wedding pictures? --- What kind of educational background and/or experience have you had in developing your techniques? --- When and with whom was your technique last updated?
Get Specific! Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Too often important details that you had never before considered come back to haunt you later:
22. How will you be showing me the pictures for selection?
23. How will you be showing me the pictures for selection?
24. Will you be helping me in the selection of the final pictures?
25. How can people who live out of town be accommodated with ordering, paying and delivery?
26. What are the costs of the various styles of coverage? --- Are there different degrees of coverage? --- What's included in each?
27. How much for the extras? --- Duplicates? --- Ask to see the specific style of album you will be receiving. --- Are alternate choices available? At an extra cost?
28. What kind of time frame are you looking at for preparing the pictures for my selection? --- Are you providing me with proofs, slides, video tape of the pictures, or what? --- How much time do I have to make up my mind as to which pictures I want and how many? --- Are the proofs for sale?
Look to The Future
29. How much money would you expect me to eventually spend before you think I'd be completely happy with my wedding coverage?
30. How much money would you WANT me to spend in order for me to make it worthwhile for you to give me your full attention on my wedding day?
31. How long have you been in the business? --- How long do you plan on staying in the business? --- In other words, what kind of guarantee comes with my hiring you and/or your studio?
Wrap It Up Intelligently Finally, let's consider a few topics of conversation that could/should help you make your decision.
32. Do you have any particular philosophy about your approach to photographing weddings?
33. What would you plan to do at my wedding that would make my wedding photographs unique and personal to me? --- Can I tell you who I want in my pictures? --- How will you find them?
34. How can I be certain that YOU will be taking my pictures?
35. With whom will I be dealing after the wedding?
36. What's your payment policy? --- Do you give any guarantees on your services and photographs?
37. What is the possibility of the pictures fading. --- What if they DO fade?

Tips on Selecting Wedding Reception Music & Dance

The Art of The Slow Transition

Is it possible to satisfy the desperate audience we described at the beginning of this article?Sure. In fact, we do it at least a few times each weekend, using a simple and effective technique called the "slow transition."

After dinner music (good choices: soft rock, jazz or classical), begin the dancing portion of the reception with a mix of more romantic songs, leaning more toward the big band and 50's crooners. As the evening progresses and people get more enthusiastic, build toward a more up tempo, contemporary mix. That's not to say that there's no variety of fast/slow, old/new during the transition, but to say that the mood of the music matches that of the crowd; subtly evolving from mellow to more exciting.

Artfully staged, nobody really notices the evolution in progress. Each guest, however, will recall that they "played my type of music."

The Special Songs in the Mix

There are some song titles that you'll specify by name to your entertainment provider. These "special songs" include your bride & groom first dance, father/bride dance, mother/groom dance, bridal party dance, cake cutting, departure dance, and others, depending upon which traditional agenda items you include in your reception.

Often, what makes a song special is the memory associated with it. A great first-dance song might be the one playing on the car radio during the couple's first date. The father/bride dance could be performed to the song dad sang when he tucked in a five-year-old future bride. Even if the meaning is lost on the rest of the group, a special moment forms on the dance floor. And that is apparent to the guests.

For true sentimentality, there are several songs intended specifically for such events as father/bride and mother/groom dance songs. Currently, Bob Carlisle's Butterfly Kisses holds the popular lead among father/bride selections, but specialty artists Mikki and Renee Nalbandian have both composed wonderfully sentimental ballads for such occasions.

One caution that can be offered regarding special songs is to consider the true lyrical content of the song before committing to it. For years, Olivia Newton John's I Honestly Love You was a favorite choice, despite the fact that its subject matter involves the conclusion of an extramarital affair. Whitney Houston's I Will Always Love You is also a break-up song, as is Garth Brooks' The Dance. They're all heart-touching ballads, but just don't offer themselves to the true spirit of a first dance as husband and wife.

How Much Music Do I Need to Select?

Aside from your special songs, it's important for you to work with your entertainment provider to set a tone for the event. There are likely to be songs that you definitely do or don't want to have included in your reception.

A reputable DJ or band leader will work with you to produce a music program that reflects your preferences, rather than working off of a standard play list that works most of the time.

Obviously, planning is essential. You should work closely with an entertainment provider whose insights you trust. Together, you can produce an entertainment program that balances your taste and the desires of your audience.

Some flexibility is essential in the planning process. Let's take an extreme (but true) example to illustrate the point.

Let's go back to the original question: How much music do I need to select?

From a purely logistical standpoint, somewhere between 50 and 60 songs will fit into a four-hour wedding reception.

But that pragmatic answer fails to consider the most important issue you face as a special event planner:

How much of the reception belongs to you, and how much belongs to your guests?

Frequently... very frequently, in fact... we're told not to play The Electric Slide, The Macarena, or the Chicken Dance.

That exclusion is quite understandable, since those songs are so overplayed that they audibly illustrate the word "trite."

It's also understandable that many guests will want to dance to those songs. They expect them. And you can prohibit them. It's important for you to decide how much of the reception you're willing to trust in the hands of your guests.

An associated issue is how much you trust your entertainment provider to gauge the crowd reaction and adapt the program to their tastes. A skilled DJ will be able to select music that motivates the crowd without turning a classy affair into a truck pull.

For that reason, you need to work closely with your entertainment provider to share a common vision... building upon your preferences, your guests' expectations and your entertainment provider's insights to produce an entertainment program that makes your reception a memorable event.

Choose wisely, and best wishes.
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Wedding Reception Sites: How to Choose

• So you and your fiance have finally settled on a wedding date. What to do next? The number one thing on your “To Do” list now is to determine the location of the wedding ceremony itself, since the rest of your wedding day will revolve around that critical locale. There are many things to keep in mind when selecting the perfect location for your wedding ceremony.
  First decide whether you want to have a religious ceremony or a civil one. Religious ceremonies are, of course, held in houses of worship. Requirements for religious ceremonies vary greatly from one denomination to another. Pre-marriage counseling is required by some religions, sometimes as much as six months in advance. Others forbid interfaith marriages altogether. If you are planning to have a church wedding, you should contact your house of worship for specific guidelines and requirements. Also, you should make sure that your wedding date and time don’t conflict with the normal worship schedules of the church or temple.
• A civil ceremony, on the other hand, can be held just about anywhere-the only limitation is your imagination! Local parks, botanical gardens, hotels, lakeside cottages and museums are wonderful sites for the ceremony and can also double as reception sites as well. These are popular choices because they are available for a relatively small fee, if any. Other popular places include historical mansions, bed and breakfast inns, old theaters, vineyards and wine cellars. Check our your local tourist bureau, Chamber of Commerce, or historical society for free guides to local facilities that are available for wedding ceremonies.
• Finally, when making your final decision about where to have your wedding, there are a few things that you absolutely must consider to avoid planning headaches down the road:

  Is there a deposit required? If so, how much? Is it refundable?

• Be sure to find out the restrictions, set-up times and clean-up requirements. How many guests can the place accommodate? Are you required to clean up, or will the facility staff? If so, is there an extra charge for their services?
  
• Ask if there are any rules regarding candles, flowers, birdseed, etc. You’d hate to have to revamp your wedding plans at the last minute when you find out that you can’t burn candles in the facility or that the place assumes that you are going to donate the ceremony flowers that you'd planned on drying as keepsakes to them after the wedding is over.
  
• Determine what equipment is available for your use. Don’t assume that the tables, chairs and centerpieces at the potential ceremony site will be available for your use. These items might not be for use at all, or it might be more cost effective to just rent them from an outside source.
  
• During what time of year is your wedding taking place? A lavish garden wedding during a spring afternoon might look good on paper, but if you live in Oklahoma City or some other place where you can set your watch by the daily afternoon thunderstorms, you might want to rethink the outdoor plans (or at least have a contingency plan in place just in case the rain starts falling before you say, “I do.”)

These tips can help you decide the best place for you and your fiancé to exchange wedding vows and will set the tone for the rest of your hectic wedding planning. So choose your ceremony site now and the rest of the wedding details will seem to just fall into place.
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Choosing the Right Videographer

• Why have a Video?
  A video of your wedding day captures all the excitement, nervousness, happiness of your special day. After so many months of planning, the 24 hours of your wedding day pass quickly - so many things happening that you do not see, the magical moment when you exchange your vows, your numerous guests enjoying themselves, those well-rehearsed speeches!, and dancing the night away. Having a video of your day ensures you can relive that day again and again.
• Just consider...the Bride misses all the guests arriving, the antics of the groom as he turns up. As a couple you will be posing for photographs while your guests mingle and relax in the bar, not to mention the playfulness of young bridesmaids and pageboys now that their outfits don't need to be kept tidy! Much of the footage you will be seeing for the first time when you watch it at home after your honeymoon.

  A video also captures all your family and friends at one of the few social occasions when they are reunited, some having traveled great distances to be there. Very likely, you will never have a similar opportunity to have those people together at the same time. A video lets you remember them - who they were, where they've come from, what they were like. In years to come, they will either not be with us anymore, or they will be living abroad (or you will be), or just aged! *Skills of the Videographer* Recording a wedding takes a great deal of skill and experience. Weddings are spontaneous, despite all the planning, and that is what makes them so enjoyable. The videographer has to anticipate unexpected events as well as the planned ones, to Attending from the guests arriving (or even the bride at home), all through the ceremony, reception and evening reception, the videographer gives you their undivided attention for the whole day.

• Editing the footage ensures you have a video to remember - often 2-3 hours in length. The majority of this will be the service and speeches - important in their entirety for the immediate family. Videos of the 'highlights' can also be produced separately, a shortened version which will suffice for many of your friends who just want an overview of the day!
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Wedding Invitations - How do I choose?

• Planning on Wedding Invitations:
  For maximum impact, pay attention to invitation language and the way words are styled. One trend, stationery expert Veronica Leichnitz says, is "a clean, crisp look with some empty space--NOT every inch filled with type. Use different font styles to offset the wording which is also popular these days. Use a different size font to offset the names of the bride and groom. Stay away from too-large type, though, Veronica warns: you want the invitation to be readable, not overpowering.
• Names on Invitation...With multiple families and divorced families these days, wording on invitations can be sometimes tricky. Try to keep the attention on the bride and groom. The best way to do this is to avoid listing the other names on top; instead use short, inclusive phrases such as "Amy Jones and Bill Smith, together with their families..." or "The parents of Amy Jones and Bill Smith request the pleasure of your company..." This way, the wording is friendly and uncomplicated. Also, if you're not using "Mr. and Mrs.," ladies always go first, as in "Ann and Williams Taylor request the honour of your presence..." And remember, if your ceremony will be held in a church, synagogue or other house of worship, "the honour of your presence" is the appropriate phrasing. For any other venues, use "the pleasure of your company." V.L.

Wedding Hair - UP Do's or Don'ts Checklist

• Use the following checklist below to ensure your wedding day hair is everything you dream it will be: With millions of dollars spent each year on weddings, make sure your hair and makeup is a top priority on that check list. Your hair and make up should be the the most important accessory. So don't compromise the way you look to save money. The pictures from your wedding day will last forever! Don't be embarrassed when you open your wedding album and don't like what you see. You can prevent that by taking the following steps to ensure that your wedding day will be as perfect as it can be.

  Be careful as choosing your stylist as you are choosing your florist or wedding photographer. Choose hair stylists that have a lot of experience with bridal hair and event styling. There are many stylist who do not like this type of work and are not suited to do wedding hair & up dos. Be sure to check with a wedding consultant or bridal magazine for the professionals in your particular area. Oklahoma City Celebrations online wedding & planning guide along with OK Celebrations will help you find qualified stylists in these areas. Please do not be afraid of hurting your regular stylists feelings, they will understand and your wedding day is a top priority. They will understand and sometimes, they may not even want to do bridal hair work but don’t know how to tell you. Be up front with them and don't wait till the last minute to straighten everything out.

• Follow the top ten tips below so that your ensured that your wedding day hair is everything you want it to be.

  1. Choosing a stylist - Make bookings for consultations with more than one stylist well in advance and decide on the one you feel most comfortable with. You should be able to express your likes and dislikes without feeling awkward. Tell the stylist to be honest with you and let you know if this is something they can do. Do a trial run first to see if the style will look good with your wedding veil.

  2. What length should your hair be? Long hair, shoulder length, or short hair? It is important to consult with your stylist well in advance and make a decision. Long hair can give the hair stylist much freedom for creativity but a skilled stylist can also work well with medium and short styles. Be sure to choose a length that fits with your personality and style with your tiara or wedding veil.

  3. Have your hair compliment your wedding dress, veil or tiara. This can be done by both style and accessories. Smooth, straight hair and pinned up curls are often paired up with smooth satin gowns, whereas a tulle dress often goes well with soft curls. A headpiece will play an important role in your decision. Look in bridal magazines and show your stylist your favorites.

  4. Take into consideration your silhouette. If it's along horizontal lines such as with a wide dress, you'll want to stick with that look for your hair as well. The same goes for a vertical profile.

  5. Be sure to wash your hair the night before your consultation, and try to have some pictures of styles you'd like to try out and give to your stylist.

  6. Take a picture of your wedding dress along to your stylist. Also take your veil with you, and let the stylist know what kind of wedding you are having: formal, informal, evening, daytime. Experiment with different styles while wearing your dress, jewelry you plan on wearing and take into consideration the shape of your face

  7. If you are interested in a new cut or color to your hair, don't wait until the day before your wedding. Make the changes during the initial consultation with the stylist, so that you don't have any unpleasant surprises down the road. Hair grows on an average of 6 inches per year. So have plenty of time to grow out your hair in case you don't like the outcome.

  8. After you have decided on your style, make sure you walk around with it. Bring a friend along to take pictures from different angles. On your wedding day you can refresh your stylist by showing the pictures of the style you liked best.

  9. Your veil length will have some influence on your choice of hairstyle. Normally, the veil is longer than the hair. It is often secured in back swept hair (for up dos) and it's important to make sure the style can hold the veil in place. Consider not wearing a veil, delicate flowers or even a string of pearls or a lace ribbon woven through the hair can be simple and yet create an elegant look.

  10. What accessories are you going to wear? Consider wearing hair jewelry under your veil so you can continue to sparkle after you remove your headpiece. Flowers, pins, and beads can be used to add an extra sparkle to your hair, and you can and should coordinate them with the rest of your jewelry.

  There are many things to consider when choosing a bridal hair style and with a little effort, care and preparation everything will turn out beautifully and your wedding day will be the best it can be.

Wedding Beauty / Makeup & Skin Care

• Choosing the right makeup colors is an art. Some people seem to know which shades will look best on them. Others have problems selecting even a simple lipstick. Here is some advice that will help you determine your best colors.
• The biggest issue  is finding the correct makeup to enhance and complement a brides coloring, as well as keeping a healthy, dewy glow all day while insuring she looks natural. Making sure that the makeup application looks good in day light so that it does not look as if the bride is wearing a mask can sometimes be a challenge. What is the difference between day and evening makeup? Well, when applying makeup, you always need to take into consideration the amount of light you will be exposed to. The more light that will be in your environment, the more subtle your makeup needs to be or else you will end up looking overdressed. A good make up artist will choose the correct color and application that will best suit your particular need. Always make sure you do a trial run with their make up. Again, don't wait until the day before the wedding to figure this out, getting it right before the wedding day will be one less reason to worry.
• Choose a professional makeup artist to help you decide on selecting the makeup that's right for you. There are makeup artist that offer air brush makeup as an alternative to a healthy glow for your wedding day. Some makeup artist in Oklahoma will even go on location and specialize in airbrush makeup applications, brow shaping and false eyelash applications as well. Check out OK Celebrations beauty and makeup page for a lists of makeup artist and permanent makeup in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City Wedding Themes - How do I choose?

• Spring is seen as the start of a new year and provides a wonderfully appropriate backdrop for weddings with Spring Wedding Theme. This always symbolizes the start of a new life together for the bride and groom. Depending on where you are living, the flowers will be beginning to bloom and the new buds are on the trees giving everyone a fresh feeling after the dreary winter months. A Spring Wedding can be just what everyone needs to look forward to. Oklahoma springs can sometimes bring rain and bad weather so be prepared in case the weather doesn't turn out the way you had planned. Hotels can host a Spring Wedding in Oklahoma, but an outdoor wedding ceremony in Oklahoma may create a different and unexpected rain fall, so make sure you plan for wet weather.
• A formal wedding is ideal for those couples who value elegance and tradition. It can often be a very expensive wedding as well, but if your budget isn't as big as your dreams, don't worry. Just ensure that your setting is beautiful and formal. If you choose a formal theme try riding in a vintage rolls royce or a black stretch limousine. The type of wedding flowers would be white roses, white orchids, stephanotis or classic flowers. Ask an Oklahoma florist which flowers would be appropriate for your wedding theme and time of year. Certain flowers may be unavailable at certain times of the year.

Wedding Themes & Ideas - Unique or Traditional You Choose

• The elegant casual wedding is a thing of great beauty. No one has spent too much money, everyone is relaxed and enjoying themselves, and no one worries if the kids are running around and making noise.
• The casual wedding can allow you to wear whatever you're comfortable in, including a white dress or perhaps a dress you may have in your closet. Sometimes a bridesmaid dress in white could be appropriate in a casual wedding. Grooms can wear a casual coat, khakis or a casual shirt. You may decide to have the wedding in your parents backyard or a local park or community center.
• Here are different wedding themes and ideas - you be the judge:
  
  Victorian Theme
  Locations: Historic Site, Museum, Garden, Country Inn
  Colors: Ivory, White, Pink, Rose, Pastels
  Flowers: Rose, Potpourri, Stephanotis, Baby's Breath
  Attire: Antique Lace, Cameos, Pearls, Fans
  Special Touches: Horse-drawn Carriage, Candlelight, Violins, Harp Music
  
  Western Theme
  Locations: Ranch, Barn, Home
  Colors: Red, White, Blue, Black, Silver, Turquoise
  Flowers: Wildflowers, Daisy, Black-eyed Susan, Sunflowers
  Attire: Gingham, Denim, Bandanas, Boots, Hats, String Ties
  Special Touches: Buckboard Wagon, BBQ, Square Dancing, Fiddlers, Guitars
  
  Art Deco Theme
  Locations: Restaurant, Hall, Ballroom, Hotel, Art Museum
  Colors: Silver, Black, White, Gold
  Flowers: Calla Lily, Stephanotis, Fern
  Attire: Sheath Styles, Baguettes, Beads, Sequins
  Special Touches: Vintage Cars, Champagne, Fountains, Jazz Quartet
  
  English Garden Theme
  Locations: Garden, Home, Historic Site, Country Inn
  Colors: Pink, Green, Lavender, Blue, Yellow, White
  Flowers: Ivy, Lily of the Valley, Lilac, Rose, Iris, Hyacinth, Tulip
  Attire: Organza, Floral Arrangements, Wreath, Basket Bouquets
  Special Touches: Trellises, Arches, Gazebo, White Chairs, Tent Reception, String Quartet, Statues
  
  Black & White Theme
  Locations: Church, Hall, Ballroom, Country Club, Museum
  Colors: Black, White
  Flowers: Calla Lily, Gardenia, Orchids, Stephanotis
  Attire: Ruffles, Off-the-Shoulder, Backless, Dinner Jackets
  Special Touches: Cocktail Reception, Metallic Confetti, Black Rice Bags, Silver Toasting Glasses, Orchestra, Harp Music
  
  Christmas Theme
  Locations: Church, Home
  Colors: Red, Green, Gold, Silver, White, Burgundy, Hunter Green
  Flowers: Poinsettia, Evergreen, Holly, Baby's Breath
  Attire: Taffeta, Plaid, Velvet Bows
  Special Touches: Christmas Tree, Wreaths, Candlelight, Christmas Music
  
  Country Theme
  Locations: Home, Church, Garden, Historic Site, Country Inn
  Colors: Blue, Mauve, Green, Brick Red
  Flowers: Grapevine, Sweet Pea, Cornflower Wreaths, Tulip, Daisy, Baby's Breath
  Attire: Handkerchief Hemlines, Flower Basket, Bouquets, Nostalgic
  Special Touches: Grapevine Wreaths, Quilts, Baskets, Potted Plants, Horse-drawn Carriage
  
  Princess Theme
  Locations: Cathedral, Museum, Ballroom
  Colors: Pale Pink, Ivory, White
  Flowers: Rose, Orchid, Stephanotis, Gardenia, Camellia
  Attire: Opulent Silks & Satins, Pearls, Iridescence
  Special Touches: Fine Crystal, Silverware, Elaborate Floral Arrangements, Full Orchestra, Ballroom Dancing, Valet Parking
  
  Nautical Theme
  Locations: Yacht Club, Lakeside, Beach, Resort
  Colors: Red, White, Navy Blue
  Flowers: Lily, Carnation, Violet
  Attire: Sailor Collars, Stripes, Linen, Cotton
  Special Touches: Balloons, Streamers, Confetti, American Flag, Tent, Fireworks

Wedding Jewelry

• Your wedding rings are the most symbolic piece of jewelry you'll ever own. The wedding rings and engagement rings you choose will be the most enduring pieces of your wedding day. Your ring is a long-lasting symbol of your love and commitment. Choose your wedding rings that are timeless and high quality.
• There are many things to consider when choosing your wedding rings: It needs to match and sit comfortably with your engagement ring. Choose yellow gold, white gold or even platinum which is popular these days.
• Let your hairpiece, hairstyle and necklace decide on the right type of earrings you choose. Chunkier style earrings and earrings with a drop will look great with upswept hair.
• If your dress has a lot of beading, or a lot of details with lace or rhinestones don't add a necklace or this could cause you to look to busy.
• Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds may be stunning but too bold for a white wedding. Choose lighter colors such as: aquamarine, citrine, and a light topaz. Just a hint of color will add the right amount of elegance.
• Cuff links, tie tacks and other formal jewelry may be as foreign to you as cummerbunds and tails, but accessories are just as important to the male of the species as the female on a formal occasion. If you need some inspiration, this is the place to go. OK Celebrations is a guide to help you select the jewelry that's right for you.

Wedding Etiquette Do's & Don'ts

• In an effort to reduce expenses, some couples today are opting for what is known as a "cash bar" at the wedding reception, also called the "no-host bar". The 21st century, some of the rules of wedding etiquette are gently, and with great care, being broken. As long as you don't move within a social circle in which the ultimate in social correctness is always observed, you may be able to sneak by with your cash bar. Emily Post most definitely would not approve, but, the times are changing.  Take careful note of the following disclaimer: Anytime you are contemplating breaking or even bending a rule of wedding etiquette, you should give the matter a great deal of consideration before making that decision. Proceed only if you are still comfortable and if you are certain you will not turn anyone off.
  
• Here are some simple rules of etiquette to follow for the bride:
• Coordinate the entire wedding with the help of her mother or a consultant.
• Ceremony day and date, time, style and site.
• Compile her guest list and eventually combines all lists.
• Select officiant.
• Ask maid/matron of honor and bridesmaids.
• Shop for her gown, and wedding party attire.
• Arrange bridesmaid's fittings.
• Delegate duties to honor attendant and bridesmaids.
• Plan a bridesmaid's luncheon or another person may choose to host one.
• Arranges for lodging for out of town attendants and guests.
• Select a special gift for her groom. (optional)
• Together with the groom, talks with all the guests at the reception.
• Send thank-you notes.
  
  
• Here are some simple rules of etiquette for the groom to follow:
• Discuss the budget with the bride, his family and the bride's family.
• Helps to assemble his guest list.
• Assists with planning as needed.
• Selects best man and ushers.
• Arrange for groomsmen fittings.
• Assign groomsmen's responsibilities.
• Plan the rehearsal dinner and the payment of the dinner.
• Shop with bride for the wedding rings.
• Select a special gift for his bride. (optional)
• Secure all the necessary documents; marriage license; premarital counseling.
• Reserve blocks of rooms for all the out of town guests.
• Along with the bride, talks with all the guests at the reception.
• Send thank-you notes.

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