Are you searching for the ultimate wedding venue? Without question, a tropical island can offer the ultimate romantic setting. Mother Nature is such a thoughtful maid of honor. How kind of her to provide a majestic wedding hall decorated with sweet sandy beaches, exotic flowers, tranquil seas and soft-asa- kiss trade winds for the lucky bride and groom. »

As a happy couple you’ve decided to turn your relationship into something more permanent. Congratulations on your engagement! Most people like to celebrate the good news with an engagement party, the first in a series of momentous festivities leading up to your wedding. Engagement parties can be the ideal way to introduce your two families to each other and build new and lasting relationships. »

The joy of an impending wedding day can be short-lived when you sit down and list everything you have to do. Fortunately, there are some helpers — your bridesmaids. Call upon people who you’ve known forever — close friends and relatives who are with you for good. Choose the number of bridesmaids that best reflects the size and style of your ceremony. »

You’ve just tied the knot and are settling into your new lives as a couple. To help make married life a little more secure, all newlyweds should take steps toward financial freedom by assessing their personal insurance needs. Let’s start with the vehicles you drive. If you each have a car registered in your own name, consider putting them under one policy. »

Everything is all set for the big day — you have the shoes, the dress, the catering hall. Now all you need is everyone to show up. But how are you going to get yourself and everyone in your wedding party to the big event? It’s up to you to figure that out. A little planning can make the ride less bumpy. Make transportation arrangements 4 to 6 weeks in advance and 5 or 6 months ahead if you’re getting married during prom or graduation season. Ask friends, family or wedding-related services who they recommend. »

A new life together usually begins with the gift of a ring. Indeed, jewelry has been the most sentimental, long-lasting and universal symbol of love and marriage for centuries. »

If you are are clueless about what to get the wedding couple, consider personalized baskets that reflect their dreams. For instance, if the couple plans to purchase a house, package together a book about design, a few real estate magazines and a gift certificate to a restaurant or home center in their prospective area. »

Planning a wedding is a tough job. Another thing the bride and groom should think about during planning is to try to heed a few guidelines to make guests, family and friends feel welcome, even if the couple plans to cast tradition aside. »

Weddings are rich in traditions. Often these traditions are handed down through the years from ancient times. »