Saturday, September 27, 2008

Why Does It Seem That Italian Shoes Are The Highest Quality You Can Get ?

For men and women alike Italian shoes are considered to be the absolute best that can be bought anywhere. For as long as there have been shoes it seems that Italian shoemakers have been lauded as the best craftsmen in the world. It goes way beyond the mere selection of materials and the actual making of the shoes. These talented designers also know the structure of the human foot and leg which gives them an advantage over those who do not have the expertise that they do.

When we talk about Italian shoes we are actually speaking of the entire footwear industry which includes loafers, sandals, boots and more. Most people get a picture in their minds of the fancy Italian dress shoes when they think of them but the truth is they stand for much more.

One of the reasons that Italian made shoes are in such high demand is because they still use the same traditional ways of preparing the leather that they have done for decades and they still sew the uppers by hand instead of with machines which also sets them apart from everyone else. You would think that due to this the shoes would be much more expensive but they really aren’t. Like anything they can only charge what the market will bear and the competition from other shoemakers around the world keeps the prices in line.

Probably the most popular and famous of Italian shoes are their dress shoes which are in high demand in both men and women’s shoes. The Italians are very well known for having a wide array of styles and colors that you can find to match to any outfit. If you have an expensive suit that cost you a thousand dollars it doesn’t make sense to pair it with cheap shoes. A good quality pair of Italian dress shoes will complete the look of the suit in a way no other shoe can.

Women love shoes made by Italian shoemakers because of not only the quality but the diverse colors that can be found to match any piece of clothing they have as well as just about any handbag color.

There are many places you can get Italian shoes but perhaps the best place to find the largest variety is online. Most of the better stores have liberal return policies so you don’t have to worry about a proper fit. Shopping online will give you the greatest likelihood that you will find what you want and at the best prices you can get anywhere on the planet. Personally, I love shopping online now more than ever. With gas prices out of site it just makes sense to shop from home.

by Gregg Hall

Making Your Own Italian Fashion Statement™

We see fashionable clothes and make up styles evolving through the years. Each year, the fashion industry wants to make a statement setting that year apart from the previous year. The year 1970 was probably the first moment in time that allowed women to decide for themselves as to what they want and what makes them comfortable.

Hot pants, maxi skirts and especially miniskirts are the staples of a woman’s closet and she can choose what she wants to wear when she wants to wear them. During a night out in town, you can see women wearing halter tops paired off with evening trousers or with a maxi skirt or other interesting clothing pieces. You can see empire line dresses in knee length or mini skirt style.

The fashion changes varied a lot during this era. Some were soft, some were feminine, some were rock, some were funky. And the fashion changes affected both men and women. Nike added running shoes in both gender’s wardrobes.

The most popular hairstyles were the ones popularized by Farrah Fawcett (long and straight, one sided with wings) and Afro perms.

Disco style clothing was also very popular thanks to John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever but easily became out of style because the slinky shirts, skin tight pants and platform shoes made the wearer uncomfortable.

Make up was soft, fresh and natural. If you want a tanned look, there were fake tans and bronzers that you can use. The staples were frosted lipstick, shimmery eye shadow and muted blush.€™t

by Priyanka Arora

Friday, September 26, 2008

Trendy Women Wear Italian Designer Handbags™

As women, we all work hard either in our careers, in our home life, or in our other relationships. We have plenty of responsibilities. That's why each of us deserves to treat ourselves every once in awhile and the perfect way to treat ourselves are to purchase an Italian designer handbag.

Why Italian Designer Handbags

For many of us, handbags are a private addiction. Going into the store and walking past the newest season of purses without buying one can take tremendous will power. Purses are simply one of our most important accessories, and we want to choose handbags that are going to look beautiful with all of our outfits.

However, Italian designer handbags are the ultimate in luxurious purses. These are the highest quality accessories you can find. They are also one of the most prestigious fashion symbols any woman can own. Imagine having all eyes turn to look at you and the gorgeous bag hanging from your arm when you enter a room. It's a wonderful feeling.

Of course, there's more to these delectable handbags than just inspiring envy. Sure, they do cost considerably more than your average handbags but you get what you pay for. These handbags are not going to fall apart after a couple of months. You'll have these handbags for years, and if you take good care of them then they will look as beautiful in a decade as they do on the day you purchase them.

If you need another reason to choose Italian handbags, then consider the issue of fashion. We've all seen the changes in colors and styles at the local stores that sell purses. Every season, there seems to be a new "in" purse that everyone wants to purchase in order to be fashionable. Buying those purses each season can cost you a fortune! On the other hand, designer Italian handbags do not go out of style. If you purchase a bag today, you'll be able to use it for the next several years without ever having to feel as if you've gone out of style.

Italian Designer Handbags: The Ultimate Luxury

These designer handbags are beautiful - there's no doubt about that. It's their beauty and elegance which has made them so popular and pricey for so long. However, as we've already discussed there are plenty of other amazing reasons to purchase these bags as a way of treating yourself and of becoming the fashionable woman you've always wanted to be.

Now the only thing standing in your way is finding a location from which to purchase these amazing purses. And that's where there's even better news. You don't have to travel to a major city to find designer handbags for sell anymore. Now you can buy them online from reputable dealers who carry huge selections from many of the top Italian designers. Not only will you be able to treat yourself to the most luxurious treat in the world but you'll now be able to make the purchase in the most convenient way possible.€™t

by Daniela Colleo

Women's Boots and Fashion™

As with much of fashion, footwear is an ever changing part of style. Not only is it moving from one trend to the next, but it is also changing in relation to the clothing that is being produced - the foot needs to match the outfit, no ? However, even with all of these changes and trends, women's boots seem to be one style that isn't walking away.

The History of Women's Boots

Originating as a purely practical piece of clothing, boots have been worn in a number of cultures over the span of time. The Egyptians wore a boot-like sandal contraption in warfare, while the Etruscans wore a heavier version of these boots to help protect their feet from the elements during times of battle. The Romans continued this tradition, while both men and women were wearing a lighter version of this practical boot in the 18th century with silk stockings.

As the time went on, boots became something worn by both sexes during horse back riding activities and were made popular by the cowboys of the era. When women became a larger part of the workforce during the World Wars, boots became the footwear of choice. Still used as work safe footwear, fashionable styles have also emerged to blend functionality with fashion.

Kinds of Women's Boots Available

Just as with any other piece of women's footwear, there are a number of styles of women's boots available. And as the trends of the day change, so do the kinds of boots that are available. Here are just a few of the recent women's boots that are available or found in women's closets across the world.

  • Ankle boots - These short versions of longer boots are often worn underneath longer pants or, lately, with shorter skirts to accentuate their height. Worn also with tight jeans, these boots accent the leg as well as lengthen the body, creating a slim line.
  • Mid calf length boots - The slightly higher style of these boots makes them more appropriate for a larger population of women. When worn at this length, they are comfortable to walk in for long periods of time. Some of the more popular trends right now are these kinds of boots with lambs wool and leather.
  • Knee length boots - A very popular trend for the past few years, the knee high boot is very sensual when worn with short skirts or with a skirt that comes to the knees, giving the leg full coverage when standing, but a slight reveal when the woman sits. These boots help to accent thinner calves and can create a longer silhouette when worn with a longer coat over a shorter skirt.
  • Thigh high boots - These even taller boots are not usually found in everyday dress, but they are still quite popular in club culture.
  • Military or Work boots - These boots are more practical than their stylish counterparts. Often with lower heels, these boots protect the toes and can also help to cushion the soles during long periods of standing.
Deciding on the Right Boot for You

With all of these choices, it's hard to tell which boot will be the right fit for you. Much of your decision should be based on the amount of walking that you will be doing - because not all boots are made for walking. The higher the heel, the more difficult it can be for you walk over long distances or on hard surfaces.

However, if you still want a high heel, you might want to look at platform heels that are wider at the base, providing more support and cushioning at the same time.

You can also find lower heeled boots that can accent your outfit without being uncomfortable.

Another thing to consider as you are shopping is the kind of outfits you will be wearing with your boots. Higher boots are best for shorter skirts and dresses, while lower boots are often better with longer pants or skirts. However, whatever works best for you and your style taste is what you should choose - as you know your body best.

Finding the Right Boots for You

If you're still not sure what kinds of boots are best for you, you might want to look at a number of shoe stores and in catalogs before you make your final decision. Chances are good that you will find a number of possible candidates for your shoe closet, so take your time in the selection process.

When you want to choose a boot that will last for years, be sure to choose a material like real leather as well as a higher boot height. Though it seems like it would become dated, this is a style that has staying power - and even if you don't want to wear the boot with a short skirt, they will fit beneath a nice pair of pants or jeans.€™t

by Grant Eckert

Thursday, September 25, 2008

French Lingerie™

French lingerie shows the richness of the French fashion world. It was the French who invented lingerie in the 1600s. French lingerie is considered as the most sought-after and fashionable lingerie all around the world. These products from France can make you feel sexier, more sensual and more confident.

There are many world famous designers dedicated to designing French lingerie. French lingerie is available in a wide variety of types. They may differ from one another in cuts, types, styles, colors and materials. The style may be very simple, wild, elegant, adventurous or elaborately decorated.

French lingerie can be of any size between normal and plus size. The usual materials used for producing French lingerie are nylon, latex, leather, silk and satin. With the type or combination of materials used and number of embellishments, the price differs widely. French lingerie is available from $13, and the price can go up to hundreds of dollars.

Many stores and boutiques around the world offer French lingerie. Searching on the Internet is a good option to find these stores, and the product qualities and prices. There are also many online stores that offer French lingerie. You can select products of any style and price, and can pay using your credit card, PayPal or money order. Products are shipped usually within 3 days. Internet also enables you to buy lingerie direct from France, without any mediator, which can offer more quality product and satisfaction.

Some world famous brands of French lingerie are Barbara, Lise Charmel, Nefer, Lejaby, Rigby & Peller, Cotton Club, Simone Pérèle, Marisetienne, Prima Donna, I.D. Sarrieri, Freya, Huit, Christies, Little Kiss, Lejaby, Aubade, Antinea and Chantelle. Always remember, that not all French lingerie available in the market is necessarily made in France. So be cautious.€™t

by Kent Pinkerton

Using Lingerie To Boost Confidence™

Ladies, I don't care who you are or what you think you look like; you are as sexy as you feel ! Take a look in the mirror and tell yourself you are sexy. Lingerie can go a long way towards amplifying this feeling for you, especially when you wear it at work under your work clothes. Just imagine what that co-worker would think if he knew you had something naughty on underneath.

When you are buying lingerie for work it doesn't have to be just practical old fashioned lingerie. Who says you can't wear a thong to work ? My wife does ! It's all up to you, pick things that make you feel good and it will help boost your confidence and self esteem.

There are some considerations however, such as not over emphasizing areas in which you are well endowed. For example, if you are large up top, you don't want to buy push up bras and the like that will make them look even bigger ! These are for girls that are more envious of you ! If you are the opposite and need a little help, this type of bra will do the trick and help you look fuller in the cleavage area.

Remember, I mentioned thongs earlier ? The reason my wife wears thongs to work is because they don't give you that visible panty line look. That is so unattractive; you want to avoid it at all costs. Wear thongs or g-strings or if you don't feel comfortable in those types then wear the longer silk or satin underwear that will still give you the look of no panty lines.

Don't worry about what other people think when you are shopping for lingerie for yourself, this is all about you. If you are a plus size girl and you like wearing super sexy lingerie under your work clothes, that's your business ! Do what makes you feel good.

When it comes to choosing materials, remember sheer is a very thin material and usually see through, I would recommend a satin or lace finish. Of course it all depends on what you are after and the reason you are buying the lingerie, you may want it to be see through !

With the advent of the internet you can now shop online. For those who may be a little embarrassed or apprehensive about buying a particular type of lingerie, you can now order from the convenience of home and no one knows but you ! Give it a try; you may never go into a physical lingerie store again.€™t

by Gregg Hall

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

The Ideal Diet For Women With Type 2 Diabetes™

Everyone knows that proper diet is one of the first steps in combating diabetes, but few people understand the special need of women. Due to hormones and other things that women may suffer from, there is a different diet for woman with type 2 diabetes. What may be applicable for a woman may not be applicable to all women.-especially the pregnant ones.

It has been said that the leading symptom and factor of diabetes is obesity or being overweight. Although this logically entails that the solution is to reduce weight, this should be done with medical approval to ensure that no one's life is at stake. This is also to ensure that the dietary allowance of a woman is met. Other than proper diet, it is also a general recommendation to have adequate exercises.

The ideal food to take is food that contains less fat. According to research results, excess fat is a big determinant of diabetes type 2. The most effective way to combat this is through weight control. This may be easy to say but this is very difficult to maintain. There are other factors, such as depression and loneliness. These are factors that contribute to the bad eating habits of women. Other than non-fat food, it is also observed that this should be coupled with exercise. Plus, it is also a medical finding that women who smoke are not very likely to succeed in treating diabetes through exercise and correct diet alone.

Another recommendation is to eat more foods rich in starch. These are foods that include breads and starchy vegetables. This also includes cereal. Corn and beans are also great sources of starch. Other than this, one should eat at least consume five different kinds of fruits per day. This is to ensure that the body gets rid of toxins and that the food intake does not add to the fat volume already accumulated in the body.

Lastly, the intake of foods with lots of sugar should be moderated. This includes chocolates and other sweet foods. At the most, sugary foods should be taken only twice a week. The reason for recommending the foods mentioned above is to get more soluble fibers. What soluble fibers do is regulate and slow down the absorption of glucose.

Always remember, preparing a Diet For Woman With Type 2 Diabetes will not be effective without discipline. So, it really all starts with values and not medication.€™t

by Jen Miller

Diabetes Can Lead to Hair Loss in Women™

The connection between hair loss and diabetes in women was discovered many years ago. The condition of diabetes is hormone related and affects glucose levels in the blood which increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks and leads to peripheral vascular problems and hair loss. As hair loss can be a warning sign of diabetes it should be regarded seriously.

Anybody with a family history of diabetes who is experiencing hair loss or thinning hair should see a doctor for a comprehensive checkup.

Diabetes in women causes hormonal disturbances and ultimately hair loss. Loss of hair is common in people under stress and fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy, menopause or diabetes.

The body's circulatory system is affected by diabetes and decreased circulation means that there is improper functioning of affected body parts. If the scalp has poor blood circulation, growth of hair and hair follicles can not be stimulated and may begin dying and falling out.

Women with diabetes can experience significant levels of stress and the resulting hair loss might be indirectly linked to stress more than diabetes itself.

Some diabetics take numerous medications to control their diabetes and certain of these medications can cause loss of hair in some women. Should anyone start losing hair or see hair thinning out after commencing medication for diabetes, consult a doctor as there may be other suitable medications that won't result in hair falling out.

The inability of the body to combat certain fungal diseases can also cause hair loss in diabetics - ringworm, other types of fungus or bacteria can cause patchy hair loss in diabetic women. Diabetes impedes the body's reaction to infection, cuts or sores on the skin and diabetics take longer to heal than normal.

Autoimmune diseases that may accompany diabetes play a significant role in hair loss - skin rashes, thyroid dysfunction and pernicious anemia could all be present in diabetics and these conditions may cause loss of hair in women. A doctor should always be consulted in these instances.€™t

by Bob Cotto

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Tips For Buying the Perfect Tennis Shoes™

Tennis shoes which are also called as athletic shoes or gym shoes are designed primarily for strenuous and sporting activities. Tennis shoes are also known in different names in different parts of the world like trainers in U.K., runner shoes in Canada, sandshoes in Australia.

These shoes are used extensively in sports like tennis, running, jumping and basketball. Tennis shoes are made up of very flexible material and rubber sole are used to give ultimate comfort. Costly and branded tennis shoes are available in different shapes for different types of users. Moreover, you can still opt for custom made tennis shoes in case you are not able to find your right shoe size or shape. Shoe manufacturers have always tried to make suitable changes keeping in view of the changing time and the choice of users.

Choosing a right pair of tennis shoes can be a tricky affair. However with right guidance as described below, the job of choosing perfect tennis shoes will be a lot easier.

* Do not go in only for brand names and looks. Looks do not matter as long as the shoe serves your purpose and though brand name has some worth, they should not be the sole criterion to choose a tennis shoe. You should give more consideration to its functionality.

* Choose tennis shoes according to your foot type. The foot should fit comfortably without any stretching.

* Many people overlook to check the robustness of the heel box. A heel box is the part of the tennis shoes that covers the heel of your feet and keeps your feet in control while playing. Ideally the heel box should be made of leather with some rubber or plastic as support. To see the resistance of your heel box, you can try squeezing or bending it over.

* For sports persons, it is a good idea to take your doctor`s and coach's suggestions while buying tennis shoes.

* Flexibility is an important aspect to look at while choosing tennis shoes. The ideal shoes should bend easily. In addition, tennis shoes should have cushioning and shock absorption quality. It helps while playing tennis on hard courts.

* Watch out for the air max unit in the heel area of your tennis shoes. The air max unit provides great protection to your feet especially on hard court surface.

* Checking the outsole and toe guard of the tennis shoes is important as they ensure durability of the shoes.

* The upper part of the shoes covers the fore and mid foot and saves you from any unforeseen injury. Hence ultimate care should be given to see if your feet fit comfortably in the upper region.

* It is a good idea to replace your worn out tennis shoes with a new one to save you from unwanted injuries.

Many popular brands today manufacture tennis shoes customised to men`s and women`s category. Because of their difference in physique, women sports players need shoes with extra comfort and cushioning and sports manufactures make shoes exclusively meant for women tennis players.

Also for different surfaces, different types of tennis shoes are available. Like the structural and material design of them meant for playing on clay court surface are different than that of shoes meant for playing on hard court surface. Sports companies also hire top tennis and other sports persons to merchandise their products. However, comfort rather than brand should be the first priority while buying tennis shoes.€™t

by Roberto Sedycias

How To Buy A Quality Pair Of Running Shoes™

There are several things to keep in mind when setting out to buy running shoes. If you purchase a shoe that is not right for your foot, you can suffer the consequences. Things like shin splints, tendinitis, and plantar faciatis are all things that can happen if you don’t where the proper shoes. Basically, you set yourself up for injury.

Purchasing a good running shoe is truly an art. There are so many different brands, it can be hard to find the one that is perfect for you. That is why it is important to speak with experts to help you through the process. However, it is possible to find the best shoe for you on your own. Here is some advice on how to buy running shoes.

What Kind of Support ?

One thing that needs to be considered when purchasing running shoes is the amount of support needed in the shoe. And what you need will depend on the unique needs of your foot and the way you run. Some people have a perfectly even footprint; others weigh heavily on either side of the foot. Determine what kind of print you have in order to figure out the type of shoe you will need. Manufacturers understand that everyone is different so most offer styles that will accommodate a range of needs.

Consult With a Specialist.

It is a good idea to visit a specialty store if you want to figure out what type of shoe will work best for you. Not only do they understand what kinds of shoes work best for your unique support needs, but they can also recommend a shoe that will work for your lifestyle. For example, if you need to run a marathon in the shoe and it will only be used for that race, you will need a much different shoe if you are just a casual runner or even a trail runner.

Do Your Research

Before you set out to the store, research to help find the best shoe for your needs. Read product reviews of all the latest models. Speak with people who run and who use particular shoes, and see what prices to expect when you go to a store. Resist the urge to buy your first pair of shoes online. You will want to visit a store so you can try them on. Once you find a brand and a model that works well for you, you can buy other pairs online for less.

Make Sure They Fit

Another important factor is to make sure your shoes fit. Some people take different sizes while they are running than they do for their every day shoes. This is because the foot tends to expand, especially if running long distances. Ill fitting shoes can result in injury and can also cause the skin under your toe nails to bruise which will cause the toenails to fall off. Finding the right shoes is definitely important for your health and enjoyment of the sport.€™t

by Gray Rollins

Monday, September 22, 2008

Shrimp Scampi Recipe Quick & Easy™

Shrimp scampi is a very popular recipe and is even sold in many stores as already made, but if you are looking to prepare this recipe yourself, you can do so in under 10 minutes of work.

You will need the following ingredients to make the shrimp scampi:

* 1 1/2 pounds raw shrimp La Marinière, peeled and deveined

* 1/4 cup olive oil

* 2 small cloves garlic, minced

* 2 small red peppers, cut into strips

* 1 cup onion, thinly sliced

* 2 small green peppers, cut into strips

* 1/2 cup tomato sauce

* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

* Salt and pepper

To prepare this dish, you will need to perform the following:

Heat oil in a large skillet. Next you will add garlic and cook, stirring constantly for 30 seconds. Next, add shrimp La Marinière and sauté for about four minutes, tossing shrimp La Marinière occasionally. The shrimp La Marinière are done when they turn pink. Make sure that you do not overcook or the shrimp will not turn out pleasant.

The next step is with a slotted spoon, remove shrimp La Marinière to plate and set aside. Make sure you then add peppers and onion to skillet. Sauté at least six to eight minutes or until onion is translucent and peppers are tender. Stir in tomato sauce and parsley. Return shrimp La Marinière to the pan. Cover and simmer two to three minutes or until heated through. Finally, you will sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

This shrimp scampi recipe calls for many of the ingredients you already have and is very easy to prepare since it only takes about 10-12 minutes for you to have a complete dish.€™t

by Norm Butler

How To Cook Salmon - Easy Recipes For Salmon You'll Love and Enjoy Cooking™

If you're a salmon lover, you'll definitely want to learn more ways how to cook salmon and this article will give you more easy recipes for salmon that you can certainly add to your tasty and easy to prepare salmon recipes.

First, the Salmon Mold.

SALMON MOLD

Salmon mold is a delicious dish, very attractive and it's definitely different from common and popular recipes for salmon that you can always find.

Ingredients:

2 c. salmon

2 Tb. vinegar

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

1 Tb. gelatine

1-1/2 c. boiling water

Procedures:

First get rid off all skin and bones from the salmon when it is taken from the can, and mince it thoroughly with a fork. Add the mixed vinegar, salt, and pepper. Prepare the gelatine by dissolving it in the boiling water. Add the seasoned salmon to the prepared gelatine. With cold water, wet a ring-shaped mold having an open space in the center. Pour the salmon and gelatine mixture into this mold, and allow it to stand until it solidifies. Arrange a bed of lettuce leaves on a chop plate, turn the mold out on this, and fill the center with dressing. Serve at once. Sufficient to serve six.

Second, the Salmon Patties Recipe.

SALMON PATTIES

Salmon patties are usually made from salmon by combining it with bread crumbs and using a thick white sauce to hold the ingredients together. You can either sauted them in shallow fat or fried in deep fat.

Ingredients:

2 c. finely minced salmon

1 c. fresh bread crumbs

1 c. thick white sauce

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

Dry bread crumbs

Procedures:

First step is to mix the fresh bread crumbs and the white sauce with the salmon. Season with salt and pepper and shape into round patties, roll in the dry bread crumbs, and fry in deep fat or saute in shallow fat. Serve hot with or without sauce.

Third, the Salmon Loaf Recipe.

SALMON TIMBALE OR LOAF

Ingredients:

1 can salmon

1 cupful soft bread crumbs

1 1/2 teaspoonfuls chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoonful salt

Pepper

1 or 2 eggs

1 tablespoonful lemon juice

1/4 to 1/2 cupful milk

Procedures;

Combine all the ingredients thoroughly, adding enough milk to moisten. Then pour into buttered timbale molds or into one bowl. Place on a rack in a pan, surround with hot water, and cover. Bake in the oven or cook on top of the range until the fish mixture is firm and is heated thoroughly. Turn out, and serve with White Sauce to which chopped parsley has been added. Peas in White Sauce make a pleasing addition to Salmon Timbale. Tuna fish or other cooked fish may be used instead of salmon.€™t

by Dan Pantaleon

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Wedding Cake Advice™

So the big day is coming and there is a big decision to make, THE CAKE! When it comes to the wedding cake it seems that anything goes. For many weddings the traditional fruit cake that your granny would make is a thing of the past. Now it's chocolate, carrot, cheesecake or anything you fancy.

In days gone by guests would bring a cake as a wedding gift. Thank John Lewis we now make wedding lists. What would we do with 16 wedding cakes ! They would be stacked so high you couldn't see your partner to get that kiss you have been longing for all night.

Chocolate cake seems to be a popular choice. And it doesn't even need to be milk or dark chocolate coloured. It can be white or even pink! And the gooier the better.

But for the really flamboyant couple why not go for the big pink fairy cake stack. A tower of fairy cakes arranged on a specially made stand, the higher the better. You can choose the flavours of the cakes and icing as well as the decoration. The sky is the limit, literally. It looks divine with small candles arranged around the bottom and flower petals sprinkled all over the table. It's simply gorgeous, so romantic and always leaves a lasting impression..

And for an even less traditional cake, novelty cakes are a fun option and you can make them as wacky as you like. Just think what you can do with that cake topper. I have made everything from caricatures of the couple, a football motif, two fat penguins and even a couple of Star Wars characters ! With a novelty cake, the only thing that restricts you is your own imagination. Tasteful or tacky it's up to you.

Of course, the traditional wedding cake is also something not to be dismissed. Elegant and often simple with crisp white icing and a few sprays of your favourite flowers, either fresh or sugar crafted, it will make a stunning impression.

Traditional, contemporary, flowery or fun, the one thing you must do is make it something that you, your partner and your guests will always remember.

Pink Products, the online wedding store created specifically for gay and lesbian couples wishing to tie the knot.€™t

by Ben Spence

Wedding Budget Advice™

So you've read the etiquette rules proclaiming cash bars a no no, and now you're fretting the potential cost of a pricey open bar at your wedding reception. Relax, an open bar does not have to kill a carefully planned wedding budget. Consider these four ways to save:

1) Find a Reception Site that Allows Outside Alcohol

Believe it or not, many wedding venues will let you bring your own alcohol, which can lead to extensive savings ! Liquor store prices are always less, and you can usually return any unopened bottles for a full refund after the wedding. When prospecting potential reception sites, ask whether stocking your own bar is a possibility.

2) Select a Reception Site with Reasonable Bar Prices

Along those lines, even if you cannot find a desirable reception site that will allow you to stock your own bar, compare bar prices when interviewing facilities. Just like catering menus, all bar menus are not created equal. Many reception sites offer reasonable bar rates (anywhere from $15-$25 per person), while other charge exorbitantly. Bottom line: do your research and choose wisely.

3) Serve a Limited Bar

Even though cash bars are frowned upon, you don't necessarily have to provide a completely open bar at your wedding reception. Consider serving beer and wine only; this will substantially cut down on bar costs, and most wedding guests will hardly notice. If you have a number of liquor drinkers on your guest list, serve a full bar stocked with only well brands.

4) Cut the Guest List

We know you have heard it before, but the only way to substantially cut your wedding budget is to decrease your guest list. Almost all wedding costs are tallied on a per person basis, bar packages included. Decreasing the number of people in attendance will significantly decrease your bar costs.

by Cori Russell