5 Tips for Planning a Religious Wedding

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Marriage is steeped with religious meaning. Though social views have changed over time, many people still view it as a sacred union.

Often, brides and grooms choose civil ceremonies for more flexibility; however, religious traditions may still be incorporated to honor one or both parties. In fact, this can be a helpful option if one partner is more spiritual than the other, or each person comes from a different faith.

If you prefer to get married in your place of worship, it’s a good idea to talk to your officiant, first. Most faiths have rules about what a marriage ceremony includes, how long it takes, and when it can be scheduled. Here are a few tips to get you started!

Get a Marriage License

Bottom line: if you’re getting married, you need a legal license. This is not provided by your church; you have to get one from your county or city office. You must verify your identity, eligibility to get married (age and single status), and pay the fees. There may be waiting period and/or window in which you may use the license, so schedule your visit accordingly.

Schedule Ahead of Time

If you’re Roman Catholic, for example, you may not be allowed to marry during Lent or Easter weekend. While some parishes may not prohibit marriages on Sundays, most churches will not cancel regular worship sessions to schedule a wedding. You’ll want to check with your church and find out what days are available ahead of time.

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Consider Your Partner

Interfaith religions and same-sex marriages have been a point of contention over the years. Some religions frown upon marrying someone from another faith and/or require conversion; others are neutral and allow spouses to keep their religions. Some churches/temples only approve weddings after interviewing both people—even couples of the same faith. Some churches recognize civil unions and others do not; the spiritual aspect of marriage also varies between faiths. Be aware of the rules about marriage, children, and divorce before you walk down the aisle!

Include Ceremony Traditions

Religious traditions can add beauty and significance to your wedding. There’s usually a reading from scripture along with words about marriage and/or the couple from the officiant. A ring exchange is typical. Depending on your faith, your ceremony may include a mass, communion, and/or audience participation (sitting, standing, readings, or prayer). Folk traditions such as jumping the broom or handfasting may or may not be allowed, so ask your officiant. Some faiths encourage special practices before or after the ceremony, such as periods of seclusion or traditional dances.

Follow Venue Rules

If you’re getting married in a church, the reception will be in a separate space. There may also be rules about who is allowed to attend the ceremony (for example, if you’re Mormon getting married in a temple). Some venues allow lighting a unity candle and others do not. Jewish weddings are often held outside under a chuppah. Churches may limit your choice of music; a specific dress code may also be required. Don’t assume, however, that you must cover your shoulders or hair. Different parishes espouse different traditions, so check with your local house of worship for specifics.

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Weddings comprise a meaningful part of our culture. Talk to your partner and discuss how your families feel about a wedding that does (or doesn’t) include traditions belonging to a specific faith.

Decide which practices are important to you, and which ones you’d rather leave out. Ask your religious officiant for more guidance, so you can plan a wedding that honors your beliefs and feels right for you. Happy planning!

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More Resources:

http://www.brides.com/story/essential-details-planning-religious-wedding-at-house-of-worship

http://bridalguide.com/planning/wedding-ceremony-traditions/religious-wedding-ceremony-guide

https://www.theknot.com/content/interfaith-wedding-planning-tips

https://www.theknot.com/content/civil-ceremony-basics

https://www.theknot.com/content/marriage-license-basics

6 Green & Utterly Magical Places to Propose

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day! In the spirit of celebrating lush, natural beauty as seen on the Emerald Isle, we’re highlighting romantic and scenic destinations IDEAL for popping the big question. So grab a Guinness, kick back, and check out these awesome proposal spots well worth your greenbacks.

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Maui, Hawaii

A wonderful destination for honeymooners, this lovely island features sandy beaches, warm weather, tropical forests, romantic waterfalls, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re dropping to one knee on a beach or asking atop a mountain, this is an incredible place to get engaged!

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Hoh Rain Forest, Washington

Did you know that not all rainforests are tropical? Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Forest abounds with gigantic old growth trees, moss thicker than blankets, and gushing waterfalls. Bring a raincoat and hot drinks, and enjoy snuggling up after a long day of hiking.

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Big Sur, California

Feed your wanderlust with a road trip along the California coast! A delightful stop along the way, Big Sur is renowned for its stunning views and abundant hiking opportunities. You can take a mini-cation at one of the bed & breakfasts, or spend all day at the beach.

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Parc des Buttes Chaumont, France

A picnic lunch served with sparkly bling in the most romantic city in the world? Yes, please! This lovely park in northeast Paris offers charming views, caves and waterfalls, ponds with wildlife, and lots of greenery. Idyllic for a short stroll, we can easily see dropping a knee in some secluded area.

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Milford Sound, New Zealand

Ready for an adventure? Fiordland National Park in New Zealand boasts spectacular hiking, incredible species diversity, and scenery so gorgeous you’ll feel like you’re in another world. With beaches, forests, and mountains, this breathtaking natural gem is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

This stunning natural formation in County Clare is awe-inspiring. Towering from 390 to 702 feet above the ocean, these world-renowned cliffs are a beloved tourist destination in Ireland. Bring a jacket or buy an Irish sweater, and enjoy amazing views—just don’t drop the ring over the edge!

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What other beautifully green places would you suggest for a proposal? Share your favorite getaways!

Take Our Quiz: Bridal Earrings for Every Style

IGzkurt_boomer_photography_338.jpgTrying to find the perfect pair of earrings for your wedding day?

We know. The struggle is real!

Your wedding is such an emotion-packed event that every detail matters; the jewelry you wear will always be special. Beautiful bridal earrings add to the unique style of your outfit and forever evoke memories of the big day.

Take our quiz and meet your match! Find out which pair best complements your personal bridal style.

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1. If you could pick a pattern/color for your wedding, it would be:

A.Flowers
B. Sequins
C. Copper
D. White
E. Chevrons
F. Red
G. Vines

2. When dressing up for an event, you prefer:

A. A pretty blouse/skirt combo
B. A stunning gown
C. A stylish outfit
D. Comfortable clothing
E. Vintage-inspired outfit
F. An exotic cocktail dress
G. Natural fabrics that breathe

3. What kind of wedding dessert would you like?

A. Cake with flowers
B. Cake on a chandelier
C. Dessert truck
D. Tiered cake
E. Dessert shots
F. Exotic cuisine
G. Donut bar

4. Your favorite thing about your wedding dress is:

A. The pretty lace
B. The elegant cut
C. The incredible back
D. The long sleeves
E. The beaded fringe
F. The high slit
G. The comfortable fabric

5. When you go to a party, you are:

A. Hanging with your fiancé the whole time
B. Impressing everyone you meet
C. The life of the party
D. Attached at the hip to your best friend
E. Hanging out with the parents
F. Surrounded by a circle of close friends
G. Talking on the porch outside

6. Choose a movie to watch:

A. Love Actually
B. Pretty Woman
C. The Bling Ring
D. Harry Potter
E. The Great Gatsby
F. Serendipity
G. Into the Wild

7. If you could live in one decade forever, it would be:

A. 1890s
B. 1990s
C. 2010s
D. 1950s
E. 1920s
F. 1970s
G. 1960s

8. Which wedding venue would you prefer?

A. Blooming garden
B. Fancy ballroom
C. Remodeled factory
D. Local church
E. Dance club
F. Exotic beach
G. Ancient forest

Got your score? Match it with your results below!

Results:

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A = Your Earrings Are EA204

You are a romantic with an appreciation for feminine fashions. You love lace and floral designs, and your wedding is going to be nothing short of breathtaking.

These lovely earrings incorporate round rhinestone flower studs with filigree and pear-shaped drops. Available in silver or gold, these beauties are versatile and can be paired with different accessories. Try them with an embroidered or lace edge veil, along with a metal filigree halo or ethereal flower clip.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

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B = Your Earrings Are EA218

You are glamorous with a taste for the finer things. For you, accessories are an extension of your natural grace and style—and the more bling, the better!

This lovely pair of elegant drop earrings adds uncommon beauty to your ensemble. Swirling silver filigree with an Old World design of flowers and shimmering rhinestones create a sparkly, romantic accent. Style these with an exquisite headpiece for your reception and a dramatic veil for the ceremony!

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

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C = Your Earrings Are EA253

You are stylish and trendy; your bridal look is fresh and modern, with a fantastic dose of sparkle. Your wedding will be an incredible party, so you need accessories that wow.

These eye-catching earrings are worthy of your wedding day. Dramatic rhinestone studs surrounded by a halo of sparkle culminate in shimmering drops packed with round, pear, and marquise rhinestones. Anything but old-fashioned, these sparkly beauties add instant glamour to any gown.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

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D = Your Earrings Are EA242

Your style is elegant, classic, and subtly romantic. You prefer simplicity and want to choose jewelry you can wear again for special occasions such as anniversaries.

These lovely little rhinestone studs feature a central stone with a halo of tiny rhinestones. Reminiscent of flowers, this versatile pair adds lightweight beauty to your look. They also perfectly complement your other accessories without adding too much bling.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

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E = Your Earrings Are EA255

Your obsession with all things vintage is only surpassed by your love of bling! You are inspired by ‘20s glamour and want a look that is fun yet dazzlingly beautiful.

This lovely pair of vintage-style drop earrings features silver filigree and a stunning array of pear-shaped and round stones. Sparkling with radiant allure, this eye-catching accessory completes a beaded gown with pizazz. You might want to consider a French net veil, too!

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

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F = Your Earrings Are EA232

You exude a passion for life and aren’t afraid to shine. Your destination wedding is being held over a whole weekend, so friends and family can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Stylish and sparkly, this pair of long earrings features pavé rhinestone loops and dramatic pear-shaped drops. You can add this glamorous accent to your engagement party, wedding ceremony, and/or reception outfits. For you, every special occasion is worthy of sparkle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

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G = Your Earrings Are EA230

You are free-spirited and have chosen an unstructured, dreamy outfit. Your rustic outdoor wedding is being held in a natural setting such as the mountains, forest, or beach.

These dainty drop earrings are beautifully bridal and blend into any outfit with effortless style. Simple rhinestone studs and glass pearl drops easily complement your other accessories, whether you’re wearing a floral crown or breezy veil.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

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Browse more earrings on our Belts & Jewelry pages, and follow us on Instagram for styling ideas!

10 Ways to Self-Motivate

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It’s a new year and time to stick to those resolutions!

If you’re a bride, among your resolutions could be finding the perfect gown, planning regular date nights, or getting in shape for the wedding. Or maybe you’d like to start a business, volunteer in the community, or take on a new project at home.

Whatever your goals, we’re here to help. We’ve collected ten tips for ways to stay motivated and make your dreams happen in 2017!

Stay SMART

Framing a SMART goal is one of the best ways to get started. Though the letters can mean different things for group or personal goals, here’s a review: S is for specific, M for measurable, A for attainable, R for relevant, and T for time-based.

Choose Wisely

Identify your passions and be realistic. If something isn’t that important to you, you probably won’t follow through. Make sure you want this and it’ll make a difference in your life. If you enjoy the journey, it will be easier to remain focused until you reach the destination.

Break It Down

Many people fail to reach their goals because, psychologically, it’s really difficult and scary to do something big. But if you break it down into smaller tasks, suddenly your goal seems much more achievable. Figure out the steps you will take, and determine a reasonable timeline.

Learn New Skills

Could be a reason you haven’t achieved this goal yet is that you may be lacking some of the skills or knowledge you need. Fill in the blanks. Ask people in the field for advice or research it online, and figure out how to do what you’re doing. Get the tools you need to begin.

Be Positive

Negative self-talk is damaging. How can you do well if someone (you) is putting you down all the time? You might think, It’s not that special. Other people have achieved greater. FYI, this is your goal, so compare yourself to you. If you’ve done better than yesterday, that is worth a positive response.

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Make Good Habits

When something new becomes part of your daily life, change happens. Since you won’t always feel motivated, commit to a routine. It won’t be easy. You’ll run into excuses; with clever planning, you can figure out how to get around them. Own responsibility for your actions.

Focus on Your Goals

Where does determination come from? When you focus on a goal, there is a driving reason behind it. Brainstorm all the positive reasons that you’re doing this—keep asking why until you discover your ultimate purpose. Draw strength from the deep meaning in what you’re doing.

Reward Yourself

Whenever you need a boost, reward yourself! Even if an achievement is small, it’s still progress. Congratulate yourself in meaningful, enjoyable ways that won’t conflict with your goal. Also, let other people know when you’ve achieved a milestone. A pat on the back is well-deserved support.

Visualize Success

You may get stuck along the way, or even have trouble starting. Ignite your drive by visualizing success. What would your life be like if you were successful? Find pictures online and write in the details of what you particularly want. Find a mentor or example of the success you seek for inspiration.

Rise to Challenges

From outside circumstances to depleted enthusiasm, various challenges may force you to a grinding halt. At these times, be flexible. Give yourself permission to change, but don’t abandon your goal. Identify specific roadblocks and find solutions. Evaluate progress and re-plot your course.

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Want to read more? Check out these great resources:

https://www.projectsmart.co.uk/smart-goals.php 

http://smart-twenties.com/motivation-is-overrated/ 

http://www.levo.com/posts/how-to-find-motivation-when-you-feel-like-a-failure 

http://greatist.com/grow/motivation-tips-that-work

Sparkle Style: Dreamy Winter Wedding Headpieces

There’s nothing quite like a sparkly, glamorous wedding to get us excited. Winter may be more popular for proposals than ceremonies, but brides who say I do to a chic winter wedding set the bar high for stunning ensembles!

Whether you love bohemian styles or are looking for pure sparkle to deck your tresses, our Spring 2017 collection features some gorgeous designs.

Scroll down and pick your favorite accessories, and then try them on at an authorized retailer near you!

Frozen Dewdrops Comb

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Add pure glamour to your ensemble with a lovely rhinestone-encrusted comb. A dazzling array of marquise, baguette, pear, and oval stones glitters with fantastic brilliance. Style this comb on the side or in the back, with or without a veil. Rhinestone jewelry is practically a must!

Winter Wonderland Tiara

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Transform your bridal look with a shimmering tiara fit for a princess. Available in silver or gold, this decadent design features intricate filigree crowned by large oval rhinestones. Inspired by classic royal glamour, this opulent design adds fairy-tale sparkle. Pair it with a veil to complete a stunning ensemble.

Royal Jewels Comb

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Bejewel your hair with a glittering, elegant comb. Arching in a crescent, this regal comb features a stunning array of round, marquise, and oval rhinestones. This elegant, princess-worthy design beautifully enhances a chignon or partial updo. Wear it with a veil for a totally romantic effect.

Snowdrift Tiara

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Complete your happily ever after with a shimmering tiara. Composed of round rhinestones, this charming headpiece sparkles with pure elegance. Wear it with a chignon, high bun, or loose curls to change up your look. Add a glittering veil and drop earrings for a totally glamorous ensemble.

Fairy Dust Garland

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Weave a spell of grace and beauty. Swirling, twirling silver filigree dances along a bridal garland. Stunning with or without a veil, this enchanting addition is easy to wear and ties in the back on metallic ribbons. Pair it with rhinestone drop earrings to complete a dazzling, glamorous look.

Morning Frost Comb

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Glittering like new frost, this delightful headpiece adds pure sparkle. Shimmering marquise rhinestones, opal rhinestones, and clear crystals are wired onto two combs for a secure fit. This elegant bridal accent is best worn in the back and may be paired with a veil or jewelry for a personalized look.

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Are you looking for sparkly wedding accessories? Check out our Spring 2017 Collection for some ideas. Follow us on Pinterest and Instagram for more inspiration!

10 Really Good Reasons to Have a Christmas Wedding

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Every year, we see gorgeous photos of winter weddings.

Pearly blues and whites, deep reds and greens, and/or bold jewel tones deck any venue with festive style. Soft neutrals and shimmering metallics add enchanting flair. To top it off, snowy landscapes create a backdrop for magnificent photos.

All in all, with the sparkly lights and warm fuzzy feelings, winter weddings evoke a magical ambiance. Today, we’re highlighting this “off-peak” season with a celebration of Christmas weddings!

Here are ten really good reasons why you should consider skipping June nuptials and booking in December, instead.

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Twinkling Lights

Strung lights, lit up trees, glowing candles, festive porches, and hanging lanterns all feel right at home during this season. This means dramatic photo ops for your engagement and/or wedding photos that evoke pure romance! Get pics smooching in front of the Christmas tree, cuddling by a hearth with a roaring fire, or skating beneath glittering lights for extra-special memories.

Classic Greenery

A rustic winter wedding is homey, charming, and so magical. Incorporate berries and greenery in the form of a bridal wreath, chair covers, table runners, centerpieces, or an arch! Winter florals tend to be more expensive, so adding in branches, candles, lanterns, and other non-flower elements gives your wedding refreshingly modern texture.

Seasonal Elements

Snow-decked invitations, frosted pine cones, and glittering faux snowflakes mirror the beauty of this chilly season. You can make your celebration rustic with golden reindeer or more glamorous with glittering ornaments. If there’s not going to be snow, you can still decorate your venue with metallics or plaids that create a wintery ambiance.

Sweet Savings

We all know the most coveted months to get married are during the summer and late fall—so if you schedule your wedding during the off-season, you’ll get cheaper rates. On the venue. The photographer. The honeymoon. Everything! Your guests can score some holiday deals on your gifts, too.

Decadent Snacks

Hot chocolate. Enough said. But if you really need more motivation, how about gingerbread, peppermint coffee, roasted vegetable soup, pot pies, cheesy potatoes, cranberries, and apple pie. Need we go on? The post-harvest season is full of delicious foods and warming drinks that will keep your guests satisfied.

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Cuddle Weather

How many engagement photos have you seen with couples hugging in the snow or snuggled beneath a huge blanket? The chilly weather naturally draws us closer to each other, and perhaps that’s why this season is big on heartwarming romance. Play off this theme in your wedding with candles, soft lighting, and cozy blankets for guests to keep warm.

Spectacular Sparkle

If the only sparkly part of your ensemble is your engagement ring, that is absolutely fine. A rustic winter wedding is unassuming and romantic. If you do want a glamorous wedding, however, this is the best season to shine! Transform your venue into a glittering, wintery wonderland with sequin table cloths or table runners, gilded candles, and strung lights.

Pure Glamour

This is the perfect opportunity to dress up like a real princess. Create an effortlessly glamorous outfit with drop earrings, a stunning hair adornment, and a shimmering belt. Long cathedral veils with rhinestone accents, intricate beadwork, or luxurious lace will beautifully enhance your outfit. ‘Tis the season for sparkle, so feel free to style your bridesmaids in sequins!

Small Footprint

Give favors that can be used again and again! Guests can make their own ornaments with gingerbread or craft supplies. Another way to green up your wedding is by giving away mini trees, poinsettias, or bulbs/seeds to plant. You can gift reusable mugs or tasty build-your-own hot chocolate kits. Encourage guests to meet up again at a volunteer event, or ask for donations to charity on your registry.

Religious Meaning

Your family was probably already planning to gather for the holidays, and your local church or wedding venue will be beautifully decorated. But the best reason of all to host a Christmas-themed wedding is to honor the spirit of the holiday. Express the love and joy of this season by promoting goodwill, tolerance, and respect towards others—including those with different beliefs from your own—and start your marriage off right!

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Happy Holidays!
XOXO, Bel Aire Bridal

Fabulous Winter Style Trends for 2017 Weddings

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The countdown is on! As we head into the last weeks of this year, we’re taking a look of some of the most fabulous winter trends from 2016.

If you’re planning a winter wedding for next year, be sure to include some of these gorgeous ideas for an absolutely spectacular ensemble!

Sparkle Sparkle Sparkle

According to Brides, accessories are going to be big next year. Of course, we’ve always felt that accessories are the best way to customize your bridal ensemble and really make it yours. For winter weddings, play up the sparkle—glamorous earrings and glittering tiaras beautifully reflect the romantic lighting of winter wedding venues. Want to keep it rustic? A pretty floral crown with berries, branches, or cooler tones reflects the season’s natural beauty.

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Long Sleeves

Gown designers of 2017 are wowing us with bishop sleeves, long lace sleeves, and flutter sleeves! Longer sleeves are perfect for a winter wedding and, apart from looking super stylish, help keep you warm. Adding a separate such as a shawl, cardigan, or sweater is another winter-friendly option that gives your photos personalized, home-spun charm.

Capes & Veils

The princess bride theme and fairy-tale weddings are popular every winter, as glamorous and sparkly accessories gracefully accent the icy beauty of this season. And what better way to keep warm than beneath a whimsical bridal cape? Many designers are adding dramatic capes to their 2017 gowns. You can also mirror this trend with a stunning cathedral veil. Whether you’re into lace trims or sparkling embroidery, the perfect design is waiting for you.

Bold Makeup

Neutral bridal makeup, messy updos, and heavy lashes were on trend this year. Fall and winter weddings have been the notable exception, showing off beautiful jewel tones! A bold lip or sparkly eyeshadow enhances a winter bridal look with flair. Metallics are still popular, so style your makeup to complement your sparkly accessories in silver, rose gold, or gold.

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Want to read more? Check with fashion experts to help you plan your winter wedding:

http://www.brides.com/gallery/wedding-dress-trends-for-fall-2017

http://www.brit.co/winter-wedding-trends-2016/

http://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/g28984/bridal-trends-2017/

8 Reasons to Get Engaged This Winter

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When you know, you just know.

Love naturally transforms a relationship until you want to make a lasting commitment, and anything less would feel incomplete. If you’re at this point, congratulations!

Now you just have to decide when to pop the question.

Some people time it based on when they’d like to get married—for example, 12–15 months before their desired wedding day. Others choose a favorite season or a significant day, such as a birthday or holiday.

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Here are eight reasons to get engaged this winter!

Discounted rings

An engagement ring represents an investment—but a holiday sale doesn’t hurt.

Romantic ambiance

All those sparkly holiday lights will make her bling sparkle even more.

Cuddle weather

So you can get all cozy before or after she says “Yes!”

Snowy engagement photos

Go on Pinterest and see what we mean. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

Holiday surprise

What better gift than a promise to be together forever?

Family is already together

This is a convenient time to celebrate your engagement without spoiling the surprise.

Winter activities as part of the proposal

Instead of one memorable proposal moment, you’ve had a whole awesome day.

You can’t wait any longer

Like we said: when you know, you just know.

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Ready to propose? Check out our Ring Bling and Engagement Photos boards on Pinterest for ideas! How He Asked is also a great resource.

How to Get in Wedding Shape: 5 Best Practices

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With the holidays right around the corner, you probably aren’t thinking about cutting back for the big day—especially if you have lots of time to prepare!

Good news: your partner already thinks you are beautiful. So the best way to prep for your wedding day is to simply be the healthiest version of yourself.

If you’re like most of us and want to improve in some area, it’s easier (and safer) to change your habits over the span of a few months than, say, two frantic weeks before your wedding.

Here are five easy ways to commit to great health. Make this winter your best ever!

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Eat Healthy

Getting healthy for your wedding should be a lifestyle choice (not a crash diet). You don’t have to cut out pumpkin spice lattes or skip holiday cookies, but do focus on incorporating more healthy foods. Make it easier by stocking nutritious substitutes for empty-calorie snacks.

Dark leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and seasonal fruits add valuable micronutrients to your diet. Avoid white carbs that have been stripped of their nutrition, and instead opt for whole grains. Choose protein sources that are low in saturated fat, and take vitamins to bolster your immune system. Sugar can boost your mood, but keep splurges reasonable. If you’re feeling down, learn to reward yourself with something other than food.

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Exercise

For that beautiful bridal glow, lead an active lifestyle. The recommended amount of exercise is at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days out of the week. It’s best to switch up your routine to keep things interesting. You can try a new sport or revive something you enjoyed in the past: swimming, yoga, cycling, stretching, and walking are all low-impact activities. Interested in a high-intensity sport like running or kick boxing? Consult a doctor before you begin.

Build up your distance and time safely, until the exercise is a habit. If you don’t have a lot of time during the day, you can even split your workout into smaller 10 or 20 minute segments. Add weight training or Pilates to build muscle tone. Every little bit counts!

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Sleep

This one doesn’t take months to practice, but you should be mindful of your sleep schedule as the wedding approaches. According to researchers, adequate sleep is essential to health and wellness. Lack of sleep contributes to a depressed immune system, attention lapses, irritability, poor memory and judgment, and even anxiety!

Avoid staying up late on your computer/phone, texting vendors at every hour of the day, and putting off DIY favors until the last minute. (Seriously, that project is going to take twice as long as you think it will.) Plan ahead and delegate so you can rest easy. Yes, you can use makeup to hide the bags under your eyes, but why bother? Get your full 7–9 hours of recommended sleep.

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Drink Water

Dehydration makes you crabby and forgetful—not to mention hungry. To avoid all that unpleasantness, be sure that you are drinking enough. Plain water is usually the best, and you can also get fluids through fruits and vegetables. Lemon water adds vitamin C to your diet, which is great for your skin. In addition, lemons are antibacterial, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion.

Caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee are ok in moderate amounts; they provide some antioxidants but flush nutrients from your system. Be aware that alcohol is also a major diuretic, depleting your body of water—it also floods your liver with toxins. So be smart and drink clean, especially the month before your wedding.

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De-Stress

Did you know that stress makes you gain weight? It also lowers your immune system and puts you at risk for long-term health issues. Planning a wedding is no easy task, so give yourself a break! Delegate tasks that you don’t absolutely need to handle; ask for help from your MOH and groom. This applies to implementing a healthier lifestyle, too—when you’re trying to change a habit, a support system helps a ton! Take breaks from wedding planning, and do things that you enjoy.

Above all, keep things in perspective. You don’t need to be perfect; this is about improving your health and feeling great. Marrying the person you love is what truly makes your wedding beautiful.

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What are your best tips for getting in wedding-worthy shape? Share your ideas!