How To Save Money By Choosing A Wedding Dessert Buffet Table

Date: May 28, 2007 • Author: Emily • Filed Under: Budgeting & Cakes & Catering & Flower & Decorations & Guests & Planning & Traditions & Customs & Unique Ideas

In recent years there has been a shift towards dessert buffet tables at weddings. Rather than offering a choice of two desserts followed by a slice of wedding cake more couples are breaking with tradition and opting for serving a variety of desserts at their wedding reception.
Most couples opting for a dessert buffet table at their wedding reception also have a small wedding cake too for the traditional cake cutting. Setting up a table with a selection of delicious desserts alongside a smaller wedding cake will not only complement your wedding cake but is also sure to shave money off of your wedding costs. Your guests will be more than happy to fill up on sweet treats from your dessert table.
The cost of a traditional wedding cake is a major expense during wedding planning. Most bakers charge per piece of cake and prices start at $3 - $6 per slice. Depending on how many guests you are inviting to your wedding reception this can soon add up. Most couples set aside $500 for the cost of a wedding cake which is a large proportion of the typical wedding budget. For my own wedding I ordered a wedding cake for 100 guests at a cost of $650. If you are on a tight budget then by arranging an assortment of mouthwatering and eye-catching desserts you can make your wedding stand out for a low cost. Decadent desserts such as this Dulce De Leche Torte, which is available at the Publix Grocery Store, cost from $16 and serve 10-12 people. If I had opted for a selection of gourmet desserts such as this for the guests at my own wedding then I could have saved myself well over $400. It’s no wonder dessert buffet tables are fast becoming the newest trend in wedding desserts –they are a much cheaper option!
Advantages
Besides the financial savings setting up a dessert buffet table at your wedding reception will give you, there are plenty more advantages for jumping on the bandwagon of this growing trend:
♥ If you want to encourage your wedding guests to mingle then what better way than to have them converge at the dessert buffet table. This will allow them to chat and get to know one another whilst choosing their sweet treats from the assortment on display.
♥ Whilst almost everyone loves some type of dessert, there are many people who don’t like wedding cake. You are sure to receive grateful comments from non-cake fans and your younger guests too if you serve a selection of desserts at your reception.
♥ You can carry your wedding color theme or style through into your selection of desserts.
♥ You can personalize your wedding by incorporating varieties of desserts which represent you or your fiancé’s ethnic background, family traditions or the region you are from. You could even choose desserts which are native to your chosen honeymoon destination.
Which Desserts?
When deciding upon which sweets to include on your dessert buffet table remember that they do not have to be lavishly expensive desserts. Whether you choose your wedding desserts based on your color theme or your personal favorites, here are some of the most popular dessert buffet choices:
♥ Chocolate cheesecake
♥ Torte
♥ Gateau
♥ Profiteroles stack (I have sampled these mouthwatering profiteroles from Marks & Spencer and totally recommend them for quality and value for money!)
♥ Fresh fruit flan
♥ Fruit tarts and pies
♥ Souffles
♥ Trifle (very British!)
♥ Bundt cake
♥ Pavlova
♥ Almond slices
♥ Chocolate mousse cups
♥ Bite sized mini cakes and desserts
♥ Cupcakes
♥ Petite fours and truffles
♥ A cookie tray assortment
♥ Platters of fresh fruit
Sourcing desserts
There are a few options for where to source an attractive array of desserts from:
♥ If you are having your wedding catered, check with the caterers if they would be able to provide an assortment of desserts for your wedding reception and discuss prices with them. As far as transportation and setting up of the dessert table is concerned this would definitely be the easier option.
♥ You will probably have your own favorite local bakery so why not try there as your first port of call. You could order desserts from them to be delivered to your wedding reception.
♥ If you are on a tight budget you could pick up tasty desserts from your local grocery store. Remember to discuss this with your wedding caterers at the outset of your wedding planning so that it is clear they will not be expected to provide desserts.
♥ Alternatively, if you have the time, inclination and culinary expertise you could make your own desserts or ask a friend or family member if they would be willing to make their signature dessert for your reception.
Dessert ideas with a fun element
All bride and grooms want their guests to have fun at their wedding reception and I think that if you provide an interactive dessert station then you will be encouraging them to join in with the celebration and create a lighthearted atmosphere.
♥ You could choose to have ingredients set out for guests to get stuck in and create their own ice cream sundaes. Bowls could be laid out with toppings such as whipped cream, sprinkles, mini candy sweets, chocolate flakes, fruit and sauces to top them off.
♥ Another popular dessert choice is a chocolate fountain surrounded by fresh fruit and other sweet dipping items.
♥ If you have a lot of children attending your wedding reception you could set up a cookie decorating station. It might be a bit messy (depending on the age range of the children) but it is a surefire way to keep them amused!
Remember that your choice of desserts is just that - anything you wish! You can be as fun and innovative as you want. Your wedding guests are sure to enjoy sampling a variety of gourmet desserts whatever you choose.
Tips for setting up your dessert table
I know that huge wedding cakes can make a great focal point at a wedding reception but there is no reason why you cannot achieve the same effects with a sumptuous dessert buffet table. Here are some top tips for arranging your dessert table.
♥ If you are decorating the dessert table yourself have some fun dressing it up. Use plush swathes of your favorite fabric to match your wedding colors as a backdrop.
♥ To add visual variety to the table make sure that the desserts are not all displayed at the same height. You can insert stacked plates or a small sturdy box underneath the tablecloth to elevate some of the desserts to create different heights at the dessert table.
♥ Present the desserts using a variety of serving dishes to add a colorful and interesting element to the layout.
♥ Add elegance to the dessert table by decorating it with flowers and floral trims in colors to match your wedding theme. Scatter flower petals around the cakes on the table.
♥ How about placing a large colorful floral arrangement as the centerpiece to the table. Just make sure that foliage is not going to come into contact with the desserts.
♥ Bowls of fresh fruit such as lemons, limes, apples or tangerines would make a vibrant and fragrant addition to the table.
♥ Think ahead with the layout of the dessert table. Place items such as dessert plates, napkins and forks at one end and then position the desserts in the order that you prefer down the center of the table. If you decide to go with the interactive dessert table it would be advisable to place the chocolate fountain or sundae making station at a separate table.
however simple or sophisticated your dessert buffet table ends up being, it is sure to be a feast for your guests’ eyes and stomachs and they will certainly appreciate your efforts.
Like everything with wedding planning the decision of whether or not to venture into the world of wedding dessert buffet tables is subjective. It comes down to your own personal tastes and your budget. Whilst I am not advocating shunning the traditional wedding cake at wedding receptions, I do believe that dessert buffet tables are an exciting, versatile and inexpensive addition to the traditional wedding cake (not to mention yummy!).

Courtesy of: http://www.nwweddingguide.info

The Collaborative Wedding Budget

Coordinating Multiple Parties with Ease
Cherie Johnson May 04, 2010 The American Chronicle
Courtesy of: http://www.nwweddingguide.info/
For husbands-and-brides-to-be with large, extended families, they often find that both sets of parents, and perhaps even grandparents, want to chip in to help defray the soaring cost of today's weddings, which, on average, come in at a whopping $20,000. Many couples, too, are electing to pick up the rest of the slack. Corralling so many people who want to help with the wedding budget can be a virtual nightmare though. Before simply accepting their good wishes and checks, the very first thing you should do is to sit down with your fiance and chart a course of action to ensure you've covered every element of your wedding that requires a significant contribution. Planning a wedding with a budget in mind comes down to knowing what you're looking for in terms of venue, vendors, and necessities - this, however, can be easily put to rest with a systematic budget planning road map.
Planning a Wedding with a Budget in Mind
An itemized wedding budget detailing the specifics - such as the dress, food/drinks, venue, flowers, and band - will ensure you've covered all the major aspects of your wedding day.
At the top of your worksheet, spreadsheet, or what have you, list what you've decided is a reasonable amount to spend on the wedding. On the left hand side, make each specific and significant element that you must or would like to have a line item. For instance, the ceremony, which encompasses the venue/place or worship, wedding officiant, and any licenses, would be listed here. Decide on a true and honest estimate of what you're willing to spend planning a wedding on a budget, and then, at a later date, add what you actually spent so that you can keep accurate track of your finances. Other items in the left hand column should consist of things such as the reception (food/drinks, cake, favors, venue, etc.); wedding attire (bride's clothing and shoes, makeup, hair, groom's clothing and accessories); rings/jewelry; flowers (for the entire party and at both venues); music/band/DJ; photography; transportation (if applicable); invitations and signage; and anything else that would cause a significant dent in your wedding budget. Remember to include such essential fees as tips for vendors (about 15 to 20%), trial hair and makeup sessions, and dress/tuxedo cleanings and pressings.
As far as planning a wedding on a budget with your parents, his parents, and any other well-wishers (step parents perhaps), show them your finalized wedding budget at an informal, yet constructive meeting. Discuss costs and who can realistically afford what. In days past, it was common - and expected - for the bride's parents to pay for everything, a modern dowry in a sense. Today's weddings no longer involve such a considerable sacrifice, though it is still carried out by many traditionalists. At this meeting, you'll want to discuss how the payments will be made; maybe your parents would like to split something or pay for one segment of the wedding entirely. Will they be giving you one lump sum in a check or visiting vendors with you to pay upfront? Such concerns about planning a wedding on a budget should be dealt with by a frank talk that involves all parties.
Many wedding budget planners suggest opening a separate wedding account at your bank that's not linked with any of your personal accounts. This simple action will help you more carefully figure out what's been spent on the wedding and where the funds are going. You should also set aside an additional 5 to 10% of your overall wedding budget should mishaps arise. The likelihood that you will go over your budget is almost a given; the amount to which you do can be controlled, in most instances, by careful wedding planning, and that budget of 5 to 10% extra you've stashed away will come in handy. Scaling back from the get-go is a huge help; this includes things like not having a buffet (wasted food), having fewer bridesmaids, and offering just wine and beer at the reception (alcohol is a major expenditure). Still, if these are must-haves, just be cautious of vendors who try to up sell you to some better, improved service that you probably don't need. Research is a crucial part of planning a wedding on a budget, so make sure you do your fair share before visiting vendors and venues.
Fine-tuning Your Wedding Budget for Success
Far too many couples forget about planning a wedding with a budget in mind and have a bang-up, blow-out bash that ends up putting them in the red. Add that to any other debts, and you're starting your marriage - which should be thoroughly exciting – with a gray cloud over your heads. A well-planned wedding budget that's done from the start - with nothing unaccounted for - will ensure that you can mosey off to your honeymoon with nothing else to worry about but enjoying yourselves.

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Wedding Videos

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A New Engagement

So you're tying the knot? Congratulations! Now prepare to party.
... So you said "yes." What do you do next? Pull out the party gear and prepare to celebrate the good news.

Traditionally, engagement parties have been hosted by the brides' parents and held in their home. These days, however, it's fine for just about anyone close to the bride to host this bash, and the fete can be held anywhere!

Some couples have more than one engagement party—a formal one at mom's house and then something more spontaneous and fun with friends. Some couples hold a party during which they suddenly announce their engagement. (Surprise!) Here are some ways to make your engagement party extra special:

Past Perfect
Your friends and family can share in the history of your romance when you hold your party at the location where you first met or where you got engaged. Or you can turn an inside joke into a party theme. Did you first set eyes on him when your cars were stuck side-by-side in a traffic jam? How about inviting your pals to a bumper-car rink? Is his nickname Party Animal? Ask your local zoo if they'll rent out space for a party. Yours can be an event for your memory book.

Born in the USA
An engagement party doesn't have to be a stodgy affair. The old-fashioned, all-American backyard barbecue can be a perfect way to celebrate. Decorate the trees with streamers, unfurl mini flags for your table centerpieces, and artistically place your condiments in a small picnic basket in the middle of the table. Don't forget the backyard touches: potato salad, chips, bottled beer—and music by Bruce Springsteen, of course.

Bowled Over
Want to surprise your friends and family with your news? Invite them to bowl a few games before you knock 'em silly with your announcement. Notify the alley in advance to ask for super-special treatment like customized soundtrack, lighting, or culinary options.

Swinging With Your Sweetie
Gear up for your impending vows with a '50s sock hop. Rent a jukebox so your guests can scroll through the play list to find perfect songs for the happy occasion. Options for the sock hop setting can range from your parents' finished basement to a private room in a restaurant.

Sophisticated Tastes
Celebrate in style with a wine and cheese party. Highlight certain cheeses and their complementary wines on small tables decorated with strewn flowers or elegant linens. Let your guests sample Brie with Cabernet and Beaujolais, Stilton with port, and Gouda with Riesling and Champagne.

If Champagne is your preference, you can't go wrong with strong cheeses and appetizers such as prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe and asparagus with lemon butter. As you sip and savor, everyone can share your joy.

Sugar for my darling
If you've got a sweet tooth, paradise is a dessert party. Create a little piece of heaven-on-earth with a white-chocolate macadamia-nut cheesecake, strawberries, and truffles. Serve up a selection of dessert wines (port, white Riesling, Merlot, and Cabernet) and typical dessert-time beverages such as espresso, coffee, and tea.

By: Laura MacNeil/via Modern Bride Magazine

Courtesy of http://www.nwweddingguide.info/

Wedding Invitations-Green-Budget Friendly-Hand Made

As featured on the Destination I Do Magazine blog!
Get the quality, stylish, eco-friendly and modern wedding invitations you've been searching for without breaking your wedding budget or doing it yourself!

Choose from one of my originally designed wedding invitation suites and I will personalize it to match your wedding colors and information. All of our products are printed on high quality eco-friendly post-consumer recycled paper. Also available are save-the-dates (with or without photos), place cards, table numbers, menus, programs, thank-you cards, or any other wedding stationery items you may need all coordinated with your wedding suite. All a-la-carte invitations and packages include RSVP cards.

The do-it-yourself invitation kits seem like a bargain, but after adding up the cost of ink for printing, the time for assembling and the hassle of working with their printing templates that never line up just right, let me do the work for you so you can enjoy the fun aspects of planning your wedding. Your invitations will come printed, trimmed, and ready to address and send!

To view more of my work and order a sample of one of the wedding suites please go to my online store at: http://www.papermango.etsy.com and for detailed pricing information scroll to the bottom of this post.
If you're looking for an even more personal touch for your wedding let us design a completely custom wedding suite just for you. Email or call for quotes on custom wedding invitations.

For questions or additional references please contact Melanie at:
email: melanie@papermangodesign.com
mobile: 480.784.7460
web: http://www.papermango.etsy.com
blog: http://www.papermangodesign.com
I'd be honored to be a part of your special day!

A LA CARTE PRICING
Flat invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $3.00
Layered invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $3.50
Pocket invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $5.00
Standard Mail RSVP w/ envelope: $.50
Save The Date w/ envelope : $2.00
Thank You cards w/ envelope : $.50
Programs: $2.00
Escort or Place cards: 10/$2.00
Menus: $2.00
Table Numbers: $2.00
Maps or other invitation inserts: 10/$2.00

PACKAGES
All packages include printed proofs of your wedding invitation. In addition to the discounts listed below I also offer a 10% quantity discount for orders of 150 invitations or more.

The Backyard Wedding - $80 (Over 10% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $25

The Resort Wedding - $150 (over 15% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
* 30 Save-The-Date cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Thank You cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* Unlimited place cards or escort cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $35.

The All Inclusive Wedding - $220 (Over 20% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
* 30 Save-The-Date cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Thank You cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Programs for your ceremony, coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* 30 invitation inserts coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* Unlimited place cards or escort cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* 8 table number cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* Up to 60 menu cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $55.

Courtesy of: http://nweddingguide.info/

Ideas for Processional Song Choices

The Processional begins as the immediate family members are ready to be seated. Depending on your ceremony dynamics, you will choose a new song as your bridal party walks down the aisle.

Song Title Artist #34 Dave Matthews Band
A Bird Without Wings Celtic Thunder
A Day Without Rain Enya
A Little More Skillet
A Love Like This Dan Fogelberg
A Moment Like This Kelly Clarkson
A Passage to Love Scott Yahney

A Song You Might Hear in a Wedding Jon McLaughlin
A Time for Us (Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet) Andy Williams
A Whole New World (Aladdin Soundtrack) Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey
Air George F. Handel
Air On The G String Johann S. Bach
All For Love Bryan Adams
All He Has To Do Sheri Miller
All My Life K-Ci & Jojo
All around me (acoustic) Flyleaf
Always Atlantic Starr
Amazed Lonestar
Amazed Lonestar
And I Ciara
And I Love Her The Beatles Be the First!
Angel Chaka Khan
Angels Robin Thicke
Angels Robbie Williams Be the First!
Angels Brought Me Here Guy Sebastian
Annie's Song John Denver
April Showers Dru Hill

Arrival of the Queen of Sheba George F. Handel
At Last Beyonce
At Last Etta James
Ave Maria Josh Groban
Ave Maria Beyonce
Back at One Brian McKnight Be the First!
Beau Soir Debussy
Beautiful Day U2

Beautiful Day U2
Beautiful In My Eyes Joshua Kadison Be the First!
Beautiful In My Eyes Joshua Kadison
Beauty Is Ner Name Dru Hill
Because You Loved Me Celine Dion

Courtesy of:http://www.nwweddingguide.info

Why Not-Honeymoon & Your Hobby

There is no reason you can't combine your Honeymoon with one of your favorite hobbies. If you are a bird watcher and want to honeymoon in a warm climate, this might be just the thing for you!
Every year, winter cold fronts push migratory birds and birders alike south to Florida, where most land somewhere along the great Florida birding trail.
Divided into four geographic sections-East, West, Panhandle, and South-the GFBT is a 2,000-mile, self-guided pathway that connects 489 sites ,m including some of the state's hottest birding spots. Begin your Florida birding vacation with a stop a the GFBT website, http://www.floridabirdingtrail.com, which features an interactive trip-planning tool to help find birding destinations by species, habitat or location in the state. The site also provides a video library, downloadable guides, and more features to help you improve your birding experience in the Florida outdoors.

Bringing Home A Bunny-Should Your Child Have A Bunny For Easter?

With Easter right around the corner, pet stores are stocking up on bunnies for sale. Doesn't everyone at one time or another think about buying a bunny for their children at Easter?
Many of these bunnies are bought on impulse, without knowing all the responsibility a rabbit requires. Not too long after Easter, many of these bunnies are neglected or taken to local shelters once the novelty wears off.
Before buying that cute, fluffy bunny in the window of the pet store, give it some thought. Do you have the time and patience to devote to a rabbit? And did you know that rabbits and young children are usually not a good combination?
The Truth About Rabbits
Melissa Stockton bought a bunny for her 4-year-old last Easter. "We bought a baby bunny, and things were fine for a while," she says. "But when the bunny got a little older, he started to kick when Daniel picked him up. The kicks sometimes resulted in scratches and tears." "Rabbits are ground-loving animals," says Roxanne Snopek, a registered animal health technician and Suite101 guide for Family Pet Care. "They do not particularly like to be picked up." Rabbits are also easily startled, and the energy of an active preschooler can frighten them. "The sudden movements and loud noises of young children make them nervous," she says. "They are physically unsuited to rough handling."
Rules were quickly established at Stockton’s house. "Daniel had to sit down and put the bunny on his lap to pet him," she says. "The bunny, Peanut, was pretty tame by then and enjoyed being petted on his lap."
Be Realistic
As with any pet, parents should assume they will be the primary caregivers. "Most children will lose interest in a pet after some time – particularly if housed outside in a cage," says Snopek. "That doesn't mean that they do not love the rabbit, or they shouldn't have it. But parents need to model responsible pet care and encourage the child to participate with them in the care of the pet."
"Many parents think that a rabbit is a good starter pet for a child – to teach him or her responsibility," says Janis Abel, a member of the Bunny Buddies executive committee. Bunny Buddies, based in Houston, Texas, is an organization working to educate people about rabbits. "Rabbits require constant DAILY care, and that care is usually too much for any child to handle on his or her own," she says. "Ideally, no child should have the ultimate responsibility for the life of a pet, but especially not a child under 12 or 14 years old."
"I consider the bunny MINE," says Stockton. "Daniel enjoys him, but I knew from the start that he was too young to take responsibility for a pet. I do make him help me feed him and clean the cage." She does not mind that Peanut has become her rabbit. "I love him,” she says. "I think I enjoy him more than Daniel does."
Bunny Basics
Many people keep their pet locked up in a hutch in their backyard. Once the excitement over the new pet wears off, this can make for a lonely, and sometimes abused, animal.
Bunny Buddies encourages rabbit owners to keep their pet inside. "Many people who have kept their bunny outdoors are surprised when they bring them inside to discover that the bunny has a personality,” says Helen Swann, president of Bunny Buddies. “It's not just a lump in a hutch! Rabbits are smart, entertaining, affectionate and lots of fun, but not if their only connection with a human is when they toss food into the hutch."
Keeping a rabbit indoors requires some "bunny-proofing" to ensure the safety of your house and your pet. "Electrical cords have to be covered or made inaccessible, and wooden furniture is attractive to many bunnies," says Swann. Poisonous plants should also be moved out of the bunny's reach.
If you do decide to keep your rabbit outside, the proper cage is important. "Consider building a large enough pen, so the child can actually go inside and play with the rabbit, without having to pick it up or fearing it will run away," says Snopek. "A regular hutch surrounded by a 6-foot by 6-foot wire enclosure works well for one family I know. To protect the rabbit, the enclosure must be completely cat- and dog-proof, dug into the ground and covered on top."
"I had rabbits as a child," says Stockton. "I remember one of them being attacked by a neighbor's dog and killed. I was horrified." To ensure this does not happen to her son's rabbit, she had her husband build a cage that sits on a wooden table. "And, we only let him run in the backyard if he's supervised,” she says. “It only takes a second for something to happen."
Rabbit Safety
What precautions can parents take ensure the safety of their child and the rabbit? Snopek suggests teaching your child the proper way to handle and care for their new pet.
•Gentle petting. They don't like to wrestle like dogs do; they like soft stroking.
•Don't chase the bunny. If he hops away, wait till he comes back, or ask Mom and Dad for help.
•Don't touch droppings or cage litter.
•Don't pick up the bunny. It scares him, and if he struggles, he might scratch you.
"Never allow the child to interact with the rabbit without adult supervision," says Abel. "Rabbits should not be picked up unless you are sitting on the floor, but even that is not recommended for really young children – teach them to be satisfied by petting while sitting next to the bunny."

Choosing Your Bunny
When choosing a rabbit for your child, Snopek suggests picking a larger breed of rabbit. "The larger breeds tend to be less energetic and excitable than the dwarf varieties," she says. "Their size makes it easier for a small hand to stroke them, and harder for them to be picked up."
Consider adopting a bunny from your local animal shelter. Most people only think of cats and dogs when they think of shelters, but there are usually many rabbits there available for adoption. "Humane societies, shelters and rescue agencies all report a sharp increase in the number of rabbits relinquished to them in the spring and summer months," says Snopek. Thousands of rabbits each year are put to sleep at animal shelters because homes cannot be found.
"Most Easter bunnies do not reach their first birthday!" says Abel. "They often die young or they are released outdoors or to a shelter. If they don't die, they are often banished to a lonely life in a backyard hutch. Parents need to realize that pets are not disposable. Your responsibility to the rabbit does not end if the child tires of him."

Abel encourages parents to do their research before getting their child a bunny. "The Internet and book stores are full of wonderful (and not so wonderful!) information,” she says. “The best book about house rabbits is the House Rabbit Handbook by Marinell Harriman. Most other books are not written about pet rabbits.” She also recommends finding a qualified veterinarian and being prepared for a lot of bunny chewing and urinating. "However, bunny poop is extremely easy to clean," she says.
"I do not regret one bit getting Daniel a rabbit," says Stockton. "I do caution parents to teach their children how to handle, or not to handle, the rabbit. They are very fragile animals and need the same amount of care and attention as a dog or cat does."
With proper care and lots of love, rabbits can live eight to 10 years, sometimes even longer. If you're not willing to devote the time and attention to a bunny, and if you have small children, it might be best to opt for a stuffed bunny for Easter, instead of the real thing. The real thing is a 10-year commitment
Article By: Donna Smith

Story of Easter

Easter is a time of springtime festivals. In Christian countries Easter is celebrated as the religious holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the son of God. But the celebrations of Easter have many customs and legends that are pagan in origin and have nothing to do with Christianity.

Scholars, accepting the derivation proposed by the 8th-century English scholar St. Bede, believe the name Easter is thought to come from the Scandinavian "Ostra" and the Teutonic "Ostern" or "Eastre," both Goddesses of mythology signifying spring and fertility whose festival was celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox.

Traditions associated with the festival survive in the Easter rabbit, a symbol of fertility, and in colored easter eggs, originally painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight of spring, and used in Easter-egg rolling contests or given as gifts.

The Christian celebration of Easter embodies a number of converging traditions with emphasis on the relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name used by Europeans for Easter. Passover is an important feast in the Jewish calendar which is celebrated for 8 days and commemorates the flight and freedom of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets. (For more information please visit our Passover celebration - Passover on the Net).

Easter is observed by the churches of the West on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or following the spring equinox (March 21). So Easter became a "movable" feast which can occur as early as March 22 or as late as April 25.
Christian churches in the East which were closer to the birthplace of the new religion and in which old traditions were strong, observe Easter according to the date of the Passover festival.

Easter is at the end of the Lenten season, which covers a forty-six-day period that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter. The Lenten season itself comprises forty days, as the six Sundays in Lent are not actually a part of Lent. Sundays are considered a commemoration of Easter Sunday and have always been excluded from the Lenten fast. The Lenten season is a period of penitence in preparation for the highest festival of the church year, Easter.

Holy Week, the last week of Lent, begins with the observance of Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday takes its name from Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem where the crowds laid palms at his feet. Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, which was held the evening before the Crucifixion. Friday in Holy Week is the anniversary of the Crufixion, the day that Christ was crucified and died on the cross.

Holy week and the Lenten season end with Easter Sunday, the day of resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Jenniene

Easter Egg Ideas, Basket Ideas

Natural Easter Egg Dyes

Spring Chicken Yellow

1 ts Tumeric
2/3 cups Boiling water
1/4 ts Vinegar
Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. .Add tumeric to boiling water, stir until dissolved. Add vinegar. Simmer for 20 minutes

Easter Bunny Brown

1 tb Instant coffee; heaping
2/3 cup boiling water
1/2 ts Vinegar
Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. Add coffee to boiling water, stir until dissolved. Add vinegar. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Seren"dip"ity

Orange: Onion skins
Red: beets, raspberries, cranberries, grape juice, or red onions
Yellow: yellow onion skins, Golden Delicious apple peels, orange peels, saffron, lemon peels, shredded carrot, celery seed, walnut shells
Light Blue: frozen blueberries, thawed
Pale Green: spinach
1/4 ts Vinegar

Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. Boil eggs with one of the above-listed ingredients. Add 1/4 tsp vinegar to water. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Easter Lambs:

Trace the outline of your hand with fingers spread out onto black constructiion paper and then have a parent help you cut out the hands and turn them upside down so the four fingers look like the legs and the thumb looks like the head. Then glue cotton balls all over and glue small pieces of white or pink construction paper for the eyes, nose, mouth and toes.


Growing Easter Baskets

Take empty 1/2 gallon milk cartons and cut down to about 4" high. With the leftover carton, cut a handle to staple to the basket.

Cover with construction paper and decorate as desired.

Fill about 2/3 full with potting soil, then generously cover with grass seed.

Water daily; grass will appear in 4-6 days.

Fill easter basket with decorated eggs

Grean Threads

If you are looking to update your family's wardrobe with some green threads, consider shopping at local secondhand stores and flea markets. If you prefer to buy something new, designers and stores with environment-friendly product lines include:

Apolis Activism
www.apolisactivism.com
Del Forte Denim
www.thegreenloop.com
Edun
www.edunonline.com
Fair Indigo
www.fairindigo.com
John Patrick Organic
www.johnpatrickorganic.com
Kee-Ka
www.kee-ka.com
Linda Loudermilk
Designer/retail stores
Lara Miller
Designer/retail stores
Loomstate
www.loomstate.org
Lotus Organics
www.lotusorganics.com
Loyale
www.loyaleclothing.com
Nau
www.nau.com
Noir
www.noir-illuminati2.com
Of the Earth
www.oftheearth.com
Patagonia
www.patagonia.com
SANS
www.sans.name
Simple Shoes
www.simpleshoes.com
Tom's Shoes
www.tomsshoes.com
Under the Canopy
www.underthecanopy.com
Under the Nile
www.underthenile.com
Wildlife Works
www.wildlifeworks.com

Enjoy Shopping At These Unique Stores and Stay Green
Jenniene

Valentine Day Games

Who’s Your Mate?"

This game is similar to the Newlywed Game. Have one person from each couple leave the room. The host/hostess tailors some planned questions to the group and to certain couples. The other half of each couple stays in the room, and answers questions about their mate/date. They’re supposed to answer each question the way they think their mate/date would respond. They need to write each answer down, so that when their partner returns he/she can give their own answer to each question. Assign point values for each question that is a match. Then reverse roles of the couples for the next set of questions. The couple with the most points wins a prize. Make sure the prize is something they can share!

Love is…"

Write 25 romantic or sexy words on index cards, such as throbbing, lips, passion, candlelight, roses, chocolate, and so on. On another 25 index cards write some non-romantic images, such as ironing board, wallpaper paste, bikini wax, nose hair, motor oil, and so on. Stack the two piles separately, and distribute paper and pencil. Have each player draw a card from each pile. When everyone has 2 cards, ask
them to write a silly love poem using the two words or phrases they have drawn. For example: "Roses are red, they make me hot! Your eyes are sexy, your nose hairs are not!" Have them read their poems aloud one at a time.

Tie a Red Ribbon…"

This is a great way to get the party started if you have an even number of people at your party. Buy some red yarn or ribbon, and cut the ribbon/yarn up into various lengths (at least 100-400 uneven pieces). Put everyone into pairs, and have them search throughout the house to find as many pieces of ribbon/yarn as they possibly can. They must work with their partner to tie each piece of ribbon/yarn together to create one long piece of yarn/ribbon. Whoever has the longest piece of ribbon/yarn at the end of 10 minutes wins the game (It is OK if not every piece of ribbon is found).

Give Me Some Sugar"

Partners must face each other with their hands tied behind their backs. Blindfold each player, and then put a sugary treat in one partner’s mouth (it could be a snack cake, candy bar, doughnut, etc.). If the treat is wrapped, they must somehow unwrap the treat, and feed it to their partner. The couple who finishes the entire treat first, without using their hands wins a prize!

St. Valentine's Day History

Valentine's Day History
There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.

Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball.

In the United States, Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the first valentine cards. Commercial valentines were introduced in the 1800's and now the date is very commercialised. The town of Loveland, Colorado, does a large post office business around February 14. The spirit of good continues as valentines are sent out with sentimental verses and children exchange valentine cards at school.

Several Valentine Celebration Ideas For Your Sweetheart

MY SPECIAL VALENTINE

Submitted by: Dianne Werthmuller

These are my ideas, I gave these to my husband for 3 different Valentines Days in past...

1) I found old games at garage sales (bought at next to nothing prices) and saved only the game pieces and cards (Monopoly was a score) I used the Monopoly "chance" cards - wrapped in red and listed for my hubby how he could exchange the card for, get out of an argument free, forgetfulness free card, I'm sorry card, etc. along with a handmade Valentine's card to him saying how I was glad I was married to him.

2) One year I made and laminated 2 ea. (2" x 3") cards printed with FREE PASS anytime, anywhere --were in small fine print and added this to my blond brownies in heart basket. He has a pass to anywhere anytime (one was in case he lost one of them.) He really liked that card!

3) I found a small red mail box, addressed it to him with the flag up, and made up my own coupons (free manicure, free facial, free foot rub, free I'm Sorry, free day with the guys, free wash and wax, free 'I don't want to have to go to ________, free to do what I want to do day,etc. He used them all up for his special occasions! And I got the benefits of all those coupons too, because I love doting on him!

You can be creative and cost-conscious at the same time.


VALENTINES IN A BOX

submitted by: Elizabeth Peeden

Last year at this time my fiancé was in the Army, stationed in Germany. With us being so far apart it was impossible to spend Valentines together, but I still wanted to do something special for him. The only problem was I could not come up with anything original. Sending him flowers seemed too trite, but what do you do for someone when they are so far away.

With Valentines fast approaching I was still out of ideas, so I went to the store hoping to come up with something to do for him. I kept thinking that things would be so much easier if he was here. Then it dawned on me that since he could not spend Valentines evening with me, I would send one to him.

So, I decided to send him a Valentines evening in a box. The first thing in the box was a note and a balloon explaining how much I hated being apart on this special day and if we could spend Valentines together this is how our evening would go. Then the next thing he came to in the box was 2 candles and a box of macaroni and cheese (candle light dinner).

The next item he came to was the movie "While you were Sleeping" with a note attached to it saying how we would spend the night cuddled in each others arms watching a movie. The last thing I placed in the box was the book Chicken Soup for the Couples Soul with a note explaining how we would end the evening cuddled up reminiscing over the "story" of how our love has grown. And of course I filled every empty space with Hershey Hugs & Kisses.

He absolutely loved the package when he got it!


12 DAYS OF ROMANCE

submitted by: Katie Sparrow

This year I decided to be a little creative and yet try to save a little money while doing something special for Valentine's. I am going to do the 12 Days of Valentine's. Starting 11 days before Valentine's, I will leave little gifts for my loved one to find.

Day 1 - one balloon that says "I Love You";

Day 2 - two coupons for various special favors or treats;

Day 3 - three love songs, some taped and some written words, that mean something special to us;

Day 4 - four love poems, I found on a postcard site and hand written;

Day 5 - five terms of endearment;

Day 6 - six chocolate candy hearts;

Day 7 - seven flowers;

Day 8 - eight heart shaped cookies;

Day 9 - nine message heart candies;

Day 10 - ten reasons (of the millions) why I love him;

Day 11 - eleven Hershey's hugs and kisses;

Day 12 (Valentine's) - twelve ways to say "I Love You", languages.

Chocolate Heart Candy

What you'll need:

Plastic heart-shaped candy mold
Red, white and cocoa colored candy melts
Sandwich bags (zipper, not pleated)
Scissors
Spoon
Wax paper
Plate
Wooden skewer or clean craft paint brush
How to make it:
Put a handful of candy melts into an open zipper sandwich bag.
Microwave candy in bag for 30-40 seconds or until melted.
Cut one corner of the bag with scissors to squeeze melted candy through.
Caution: Bag may be hot, so use paper towel or a pot holder to handle it.
Gently squeeze chocolate out of bag and into the molds.
Tap the side of the mold tray to knock out any air bubbles and flatten chocolate.
Place in refrigerator until set.
Pop out of molds and serve.
Decorating

Polka dots - Use the flat end of a wooden skewer or a clean craft paint brush to dip into melted chocolate. Dot onto molds, then refrigerate. Remove mold from refrigerator when solid, then add contrasting color according to directions above.

Drizzles - Use a spoon to drizzle melted chocolate across the molds by sweeping a spoon back and forth and allowing chocolate to fall in streams. Refrigerate until solid. Add contrasting color according to directions above.

3D Drizzles - Use the spoon method above, however this time drizzle the chocolate over solid candy that you have already made and let set, rather than drizzling into the molds.

Tips:
Candy molds can be found at discount department and craft supply stores in the craft section near the cake decorating supplies. They look much like a muffin tin, though much smaller and made from clear plastic.
You can use chocolate chips instead of candy melts and use food coloring to change or tint white chocolate.
Be careful when dealing with melted chocolate as it can be very hot. Always supervise children closely when making anything in the kitchen.