What are you supposed to do with those wedding party attendants whom we love, yet go crazy when at a wedding?

According to Brides Magazine, January Issue, p. 90, there are 5 types:

The Joker, The Stoner, The Womanizer, The Weeper and The Boozer. What is the best way to deal with them?  Here are some ideas:

The Joker - make sure towards the end of the evening someone in the wedding party is keeping an eye on him/her and if trouble is brewing, call in the cavalry.

The Stoner - have a conversation ahead of time with the potential issue maker and let them know when you are going to need them to be straight.  If that person is a toast giver, try and have them go first and earlier in the evening.

The Womanizer - this one is a toughy.  Get the groom to have a little chat before hand and let the groomsmen know what behaviour is expected.  Also warn the bridesmaids to watch out for this guy.

The Weeper - during the ceremony is sweet as long as it’s not interfering with the proceedings.  But if it persists and goes into the reception, have someone take her outside and let her calm down.  We don’t suggest having her make a toast.

The Boozer - a lot like the joker, this character needs a look-out person.  Have someone keep an eye on him/her and if things are looking bad, take them outside for some air.  It’s also a good idea to let the bartenders and waitstaff know and cut him/her off if it’s getting out of control.

According to Brides Magazine, below is a list of wedding tasks that every groom enjoys.  We think some of these will surprise you so don’t leave your groom out of the planning but rather try not to make him go on the appointment with the florist!

1.  Asking his best friend to be his best man

2.  Designing your wedding website

3.  Working on the play-list

4.  Picking out the appetizers

5.  Creating a wedding micro-brew

6.  Choosing what he’ll wear

7.  Comparing cake flavors

8.  Researching the honeymoon

9.  Figuring out the map/directions cards

10.  Going to the menu tasting

11.  Proofreading invitations, programs, etc.  (Guys like to find mistakes.)

12.  Wielding the scan gun when you register

13.  Getting a day-before massage

14.  Choosing your wedding day ride

15.  Writing his vows (you’d be surprised!)

16.  Attending the bachelor party

17.  Unwrapping presents

18.  Deciding on wines

19.  Organizing pyrotechnics of any type - fireworks, sparklers, etc.

20.  Practicing the first kiss

Taken from the January 2010 issue of Bride Magazine, page 292.

After months of looking at flowers, cake toppers and fabric swatches, we thought it was time you indulged in a little man-pampering.  There is no better place for this than Hair M.  They specialize in men’s grooming…think hot towel shaves, massages, pedicures and hair cuts all performed in an environment that provides relaxation, comfort and is designed just for men.  That’s right, men’s magazines, a complimentary beverage (including beer and wine) and ESPN!  Could it get any better?  Check them out today so you can start feeling like the King that you are!

And for all you brides that are reading this…how about treating him like a king with the Cupid Package as a fabulous Valentine’s Day gift.

Looking for something fun and unique to do with your sweetie this holiday season?  How about blowing your own Christmas ornaments?!  Elements Glass Gallery presents this wonderful opportunity for you to make something truly special and one-of-a-kind.  The fun happens on Saturdays and Sundays beginning this Saturday, November 14th, and runs through December 21st.  Advance payment and registration is required by calling 503-228-0575.  It is $38 per ball with $5 being donated to the Oregon Food Bank.  If you blow 9 balls you get your 10th free!  It only takes 15-20 minutes per ball which leaves you plenty of time to view their current exhibit and then grab a coffee, cocktail or dinner in the Pearl. 

Elements Glass Gallery is located at 1979 NW Vaughn Street, North of Lovejoy.

Happy Date Night!

The movie, Julie & Julia, is more than just a movie about cooking all the recipes in Julia Child’s, Mastering the Art of French Cooking.  It is a wonderfully romantic story about Julia and Paul’s life together.  Talk about a love story!  We highly recommend taking a break from your wedding planning to plan a date night instead.  You will be so glad you did.  It is incredibly funny, heart-warming and inspiring.  A must see for all couples, whether recently engaged or married for years.

Adding various wedding traditions and customs to your wedding is a wonderful way to begin your new life together.  It is also an opportunity to share your family heritage with your guests while creating a day that is uniquely you.

Portland Wedding Photographer, Paul Rich Studio, has a post on his blog of a recent wedding where the couple not only wanted to honor their love for each other but also the Persian New Year.  The couple interwove various traditions and customs into their ceremony that made for a beautiful way to celebrate their marriage.  Visit Paul’s blog to read more about this post from April 3rd and see some fabulous photos from their wedding day.

I am not typically one to advise on relationships, but I am one to advise on fun. While we already carry wedding planning books, we have recently added some fun items to our inventory for couples to enjoy together. They are promised to keep things fun and fresh, and you will be spending time together. That’s a good thing, right? Check out these new items:

Eat Chocolate Naked, By Cam Johnson

“Here’s how to ignite it yourself and find sizzling ways to fill everyday with romance.  Whether you’re after the ultimate seduction or a more intimate connection with your partner, included are hot tips and tricks for 143 sexy, silly, passionate and just plain fun activities to add spice to your life.”

Intercourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook

“Covers 17 sensual foods ranging from traditional aphrodisiacs like oysters and honey to lesser known - but just as potent - black beans and pine nuts.  Beyond the recipes, though,InterCourses is packed with aphrodisiac histories, couples’ comments, elaborate appendices, and full-color photographs of aphrodisiacs Read the rest of this entry »

Sure, he doesn’t give a whole lot of opinions on the wedding. Rose, burgundy, or red ribbon for the favors: they all look the same in his eyes. So what is really going through his head these days? Read the rest of this entry »

If you’re at this blog, chances are you are already on the way to the altar. However - just for fun - let’s see how compatible you two are. 

New and Blue carries a variety of fun party games to use at a shower or engagement party. These questions come from a book called “Are you Compatible?” by Dan Carlinsky. The book can be purchased in our retail store at 1321 NW Hoyt Street in Portland, Oregon or right here at NewandBlue.com. Read the rest of this entry »