Wedding etiquette - hear what the experts have to say

Bridget Mora published an article for CNN, "8 wedding etiquette dilemmas solved", which has some great advice on wedding etiquette. In today's world there are some new considerations regarding wedding etiquette, such as do you invite someone who does not support your same-sex union. And of course, there are the long-standing problems such as whose opinion wins out in choosing the wedding gown. I especially liked the advice of TLC's "Say Yes to the Dress", Randy Fenoli, in response to this question.

I do wonder about Southern Weddings magazine's advice on how to respond to friends and relatives giving advice on the wedding planning.  The magazine editors' response was to "Smile sweetly, and thank them graciously.  Perhaps try this line:  'Well, bless your heart -- thank you so much for sharing your thoughts.  We'll definitely take that into consideration."  I think the response should end at "Smile sweetly, and thank them graciously".  Adding the last part is a bit too sarcastic for me.

Etiquette is often dismissed in today's society but it shouldn't be.  Take a look at the article and maybe there will be some answers to your own wedding etiquette questions.

Weddings and honeymoons in the Cook Islands

Looking for one of the most romantic place to start your new lives together?  The Cook Islands are the perfect place for a destination wedding or honeymoon.

Weddings in the Cook Islands are legally recognized internationally and the couple only needs to be in the country for three business days prior to their wedding to obtain their marriage license.  There are exceptions which can be made to the residency requirement if given advanced notice.  The only documents required are passports and birth certificates, plus divorce decree or death of spouse papers, if applicable.  There are wedding coordinators available at many of the properties as well.

Locations available for weddings range from an ancient limestone church to a barefoot ceremony on a beautiful white sand beach.

For honeymooners, there are plenty of secluded places to explore.  The couple can enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, have a picnic on a private island called a motu, stay in a luxury resort on both Rarotonga and Aitutaki in a luxury villa or hut on the beach.  The possibilities are endless!

Why you should use a credit card when paying for wedding expenses

In addition to the tips in the article below, I always recommend paying for your honeymoon with a credit card.  Some couples choose to pay by check, but the credit card provides extra coverage when it is needed.

6 Wedding Expenses you Should Always Charge on Credit

Wedding-related mishaps can turn any mild-mannered bride into a bridezilla, but sometimes your credit card can come to the rescue.  This is a great article every engaged couple should read.

Honeymoon in the Maldives

Looking for something exotic? Have you thought about a honeymoon in the Maldives? Here is an all-inclusive special that is priced from $3400 per person and includes a sunset cruise. Also included: round trip air from New York to Male on Qatar Airlines, inter-island flights, 7 nts Kuredu Island Resort, meals including afternoon tea, unlimited select beverages and more! Valid for travel 01 Aug - 06 Dec’13. Taxes included. A night in Doha is required on return trip, price not included.