Inspiration board - Yellow

I guess part of the inspiration for this board came from the weather. It's just so hot, hot, hot! Every single day is bright and sunny, and thus this board came to be. I chose yellow as it is one of the best colors that would remind you of summer. I'd also recommend this color if you want something bright and cheery for your wedding. Hope this gets you inspired.

1st column, from top: Letterpress invitation from CraftmasterInvitations.com; Luichiny Gal Lop L104109 from ShoeBuy.com; yellow cupcakes from WinkCupcakes.com; Lela Rose Bridesmaid Style LR121 from Dessy.com.

2nd column, from top: Yellow Ball paper lantern by QuanTK from 1000Markets.com; Style Monclova by Watters.com; Mod Dessert Table from AmyAtlas.com.

3rd column, from top: Lemon Place Cards and Sunflowers from CountryLiving.com; Sweet Beginnings Style K206 from JordanFashions.com; yellow callas from NoviasYRamos.com; Sweet Daisy Cake from MarthaStewartWeddings.com.

Romantic destinations for your honeymoon

Planning your wedding does not stop at deciding what to wear, where to get married, and who to invite. There's also the honeymoon factor: where are you going to spend the first night as husband and wife? Reading through the Net, I found some interesting places that are perfect for a honeymoon:

1) Paris, France. Touted as the city of love, it offers many beautiful sites in which you and your spouse can discover together. There's the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, there's wine and chocolates and gourmet dishes, and the arts and culture. Their language has a romantic sound that you and your partner would want to learn.

2) Venice, Italy. From the architecture to the culture, Venice brings a feeling of love. A ride on one of the gondolas in the city's canals makes you feel like you're starring in your own romantic movie, with your amore beside you as you sail away in the sunset.

3) Santorini, Greece. Remember the movie Mamma Mia? Wasn't the setting so romantic and just right for a wedding? If you're looking for a place with the same ambiance and enchanting lure, Santorini is your best bet. The sea, the sun, and the architecture blend perfectly to give you a honeymoon that's filled with utter relaxation and seductive charm.

4) Bali, Indonesia. If a romantic beach getaway is what you desire, this island in the Asia Pacific region should be one of your top choices. White sands, pristine waters, and abundant coral reefs are just some of the highlights of this wonderful destination. The culture is also worth discovering -- diverse and truly unique.

5) Palawan, Philippines. Okay, so maybe this is a "love your own" choice. But this island off Manila is one of the most romantic spots to be when in the country. True, Boracay is the more famous beach, but if you want a quiet honeymoon, Palawan gives you that peace and quiet away from all the noise. What's more, there are many things to find here: the safari in Calauit, the Tubbataha Reef, the Underground River, and more. If you're the kind of couple who likes to go on an adventure, this is the destination for you.

These are just a few places you can spend your honeymoon. There are a lot of sites where romance abounds so don't be limited by these selections; the world offers a host of beautiful getaways for you and your loved one.

Photo credit: Eiffel Tower by Nathong from sxc.hu, Fira Caldera by Day from Santorini.com, and Puerto Princesa Underground River from New7Wonders.com.

All about the Bridal Registry

A wedding registry or bridal registry isn't exactly a new idea in weddings. There have been many couples, I'm sure you know some, who have registered for wedding gifts for their big day. And now that it's your turn to celebrate this momentous occasion, you may be asking: Is it okay for us to have a bridal registry?

Truth is, there is nothing wrong with having a bridal registry. It's actually a good thing to do, especially if you want your guests to know what you would prefer as gifts. But of course, if you don't fee like registering for one, it's okay -- it isn't required you have one.

But if you plan to sign up for a wedding registry, remember that there are some do's and don'ts in informing your guests about it. For one, it would be rude to put the registry note inside your wedding invitation. You can send it along with your bridal shower invitation, or if you have an online wedding registry, you can put its link on your wedding website. That way, your guests would be informed where the registry is and what items are included. Of course word of mouth, via your parents, would also help.

Speaking of the items, also take into consideration the price range of the items you choose for your bridal registry. Make way for a wide price range -- remember that some of your guests have limited budget as well and may not be able to spend too much for an expensive cookware.

Aside from cookware, you can include dinnerware, linen, and other small appliances in your registry, especially if you're living in your new dream house after the wedding. Where you register is also important -- make it a bit easy for your guests to shop for your gifts included in the wedding registry. Department stores and specialized shops that are familiar to your guests are ideal places where you can have your bridal registry.

Remember, it is your big day, and it's okay if you desire to receive something you really want for your new home. But also remember there is a nice way to put it so asking for a particular gift won't come as rude. And also remember that while you may have your bridal registry, some guests would want to surprise you with something special that isn't included in your registry. Keep in mind these few tips and make your wedding preparation less worrisome.

Photo credit: Wedding gifts by CWMGary from sxc.hu.

Inspiration board - Turquoise

Been quite busy these past few days, so my apologies. Anyway, during my spare time, I found out that there was an inspiration board that I had prepared months ago but failed to put here. My goodness! But better late than never, right?

I did the inspiration board below after Pantone announced its color of the year for 2010: Turquoise. This pretty shade that's like a mix of green and blue is cool to the eyes, making it a great wedding motif color for spring and summer weddings. For your inspiration, here's a turquoise-themed board for all of you.

1st column, from top: Turquoise Flower Hair Clip from Etsy.com; Turquoise Conical Mosaic Outdoor Garden Tiki Torch from Amazon.com; After Six Bridesmaid Style 6579 from Dessy.com.

2nd column, from top: Dot-Cha! Invitation from InvitationsByDawn.com; Style SD5230 from MaggieSottero.com; Turquoise Favor Boxes from AmericanBridal.com.

3rd column, from top: Turquoise Daisy Bouquet from LerheeBouquets.com; Turquoise Rose wedding cake from TheCakeStore.co.uk; Turquoise Fish and Wave in Tin Box Clip and Cufflink from Ties.com; Lenox "Chirp" Table Linens Collection from Macys.com.