Published on Tuesday, January 12, 2010 by Ask Fran   Every groom or sometimes bride wants to make a wedding proposal that is truly unique with a story that can be told for many years to come. Some proposals are planned to the last letter while others are spur of the moment affairs, but nevertheless each has its own story to tell.   These are a few ideas that might inspire you.   Create an album with mem...

Published on Saturday, November 14, 2009 by Fran Hansen Did I hear pizza for the rehearsal dinner … When planning your rehearsal dinner, you have several options to consider and more than a few considerations. There are a number of ways you can save HUNDREDS on this one pre-wedding party alone – and besides, who doesn’t love pizza? (Most pizza establishments have additional menu items for those guests who don’t.) ...

Published on Friday, October 9, 2009 by Fran Hansen Bridal shops nearly always have a sale rack and if you don’t see it when you walk in don’t be afraid to ask!  Do take advantage of these sales – or ask for a discount if one isn’t offered!   Bridal shop owners have “minimums” they have to buy each “season” from the manufacturers they deal with.  This often means tens of thousands of dollars...

Published on Wednesday, August 12, 2009 by Fran Hansen Double weddings are certainly not a new idea.  But they are a GREAT idea for saving at least 50% of your wedding budget, and maybe even more!! ...

Published on Thursday, June 4, 2009 by Fran Hansen A favorite wedding custom has long been for the groom’s mother to make her son’s favorite cake, cut it into small one inch squares and wrap each square in tin-foil.  These pieces are then wrapped in tulle and tied with a ribbon.  It has been said if a young, unmarried woman takes home the “Groom’s Cake” and sleeps with it beneath her pillow, she will ...

Published on Tuesday, June 2, 2009 by Fran Hansen There’s nothing secret about it!  You’re getting married! Whether your wedding is just around the corner and you’re trying to lose those last three pounds or you’re going for a size 10, while wearing a size 18 today, losing weight for your wedding doesn't have to be difficult!  With your wedding day fast approaching you want to look spectacular for the l...

Published on Wednesday, March 4, 2009 by Fran Hansen You may decide that to stay ob budget means no honeymoon for the two of you!  But stop and rethink your options.  What could be more cost friendly than a honeymoon in your own town, or in a nearby city?  It's a place you know, but maybe not as well as you'd like. The travel money you would have spent driving to another destination, or flying to another st...

Published on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 by Ask Fran Encourage your flower girl to wear her latest special occasion dress!    If you plan your wedding far enough in advance be sure the dual use gown is purchased in white which can then later be accessorized with the appropriate ribbon sash to match your wedding colors.  Of course, a colored gown is perfect for your flower girl if the color is complementary to y...

Published on Sunday, February 1, 2009 by Fran Hansen Although it is unlikely that you will be named as the primary party in a lawsuit, you are, technically, hosting the event.  Unless the reception hall agrees to sign a hold harmless letter stating that you are not liable for any damage that should occur as a result of your wedding, you should look into event insurance.  The cost for event insurance will range from $5...

Published on Monday, January 19, 2009 by Ask Fran Do your own hair and makeup …    This really seems like a no-brainer way to save money for your wedding.  After all, he fell in love with the way you LOOK as well as with your personality and style!  No one can do your makeup like you, and the last thing you want to do is look “made up” on your wedding day.  You will be the center of attention with all ...