A NEW CHAPTER

Today I begin my 54th year and a new chapter in my life. This year has been one of the most difficult in my life. So many sad things have happened that I can't change or control. But, the loss of my mother last week has made a profound mark on my life. So, today as I celebrate with my daughter and the grandchildren, I will reflect on all the things that will change and all the new horizons yet to explore. For now, it is time to get back to work, to re- connect with all of you and to begin to heal from all that has happened. My birthday wish is for many new brides to help, many new friends to meet and many more years to enjoy my little loves as they grow.

A PERSONAL LOSS

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I lost my mother today. It has been a very long and sad summer and the last month has been extremely difficult. My life has been spent between hours at the hospital and caring for my granddaughter. My days have been long and the decisions I have been forced to make have been heart wrenching and so hard. When I went to find some photos of my mother to use for this sad post, I realized I have almost no photos of my mother and I together. These photos of my mother with her grandchildren are all I could find. I am exhausted and sad, but I am relieved that my mother isn't suffering anymore and she is in a much happier place. I have been away from my blog during this time, but can now get back to what gives me such pleasure- sharing wedding news with all of you.

IT'S A SHOE THING

If you want to add a touch of your own personality to your bridal attire... the shoe is the thing! Color, feathers, fur...boots- what is your clever way to make that peek under the dress more interesting? So many brides are not wearing white bridal shoes anymore. But, even if you do wear white shoes- give them a dramatic flair, like these with the marabou trim. Whatever your style, this is your day to shine. So, enter the room with great shoes.

REGISTER YOUR HONEYMOON

If you are looking for a unique registry for your guests to purchase wedding gifts, how about The Honeymoon! You can create a wedding registry so that your family and friends can help you have a perfect honeymoon- everywhere from Las Vegas to Australia. This site, and others like it, will help you to plan your getaway, keep track of all your arrangements and give your wedding guests a chance to buy you a gift. So, while you may have a traditional registry for your china and bedding, this is a way to make buying a wedding gift more fun.

A PERFECT PAIR

Here is a trendy and interesting idea for your cocktail hour. Why not have a tasting! You can go the traditional wine and cheese route or, try scotch and cheese- or a combination. What a perfect way to give guests a chance to explore the realm of great wine, single malt scotch and delicious cheeses, while mingling and enjoying the wait until your grand entrance into the reception. It will also add a dimension of WOW to your decor and to the excitement of the day.

THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT!

More amazing news from Get Married! When the new magazine launches in the fall, you will be able to interact with it! That's right! If you have an internet- enabled camera phone, you can download the free Get Married App and save information, make purchases and learn more about the articles in the magazine. How much easier can your planning be?! To learn more about the APP click here.














As always, don't forget to check out the show every morning on Lifetime and read Colin Cowie's blog and blogger brides every day for great tips and information for your wedding. And, don't forget to sign up for your free copy of the first issue of the magazine. I just love Get Married! They have such good ideas and they never stop thinking of new ways to make planning a wedding easier!!

MOTHER OF THE GROOM - DON'T WEAR BEIGE

Here is a new book for all of you mothers of the groom! The mother of the groom really gets the short end of the stick many times. But, it is your son getting married! You should be involved and this little book give some great advice on how to be involved, stay happy and keep things smooth on the road to the altar! Brides, this is a lovely way to make your future mother- in- law feel included. My suggestion: Give her this book with a nice note telling her that you want her input and you want her to enjoy the day too.