Win stylish eco-friendly guest welcome bags!

It's time for my newest contest! You can win 5 eco-friendly Envirosax bags for your stylish guest welcome bags! Justin Timberlake was recently spotted carrying his Envirosax bag, and now it's your turn to WIN a collection of your own!

Here's how to enter: just e-mail me at sharonnaylorweddings@hotmail.com with your name and what you're incorporating into your wedding to be a little friendlier to the earth. Are you supporting a 3rd world artisan co-op? Did you create a charitable registry? Did you use recycled paper for your invitations? Share your story with me, and you could win!

The winner gets to pick out his or her favorite design from Envirosax, and we'll ship your 5 bags right to you, along with a copy of my newest book! Which newest book? YOU get to choose from my website.

The deadline for this contest is August 31st, and you only need to enter once. Tell your friends!

Catch me on MSNBC

Ooo, a very fun appearance on MSNBC.com, all about the top ways to cut wedding expenses. Many thanks to Brides.com and the great Anne Chertoff!

Win a $4,000+ trip to Caneel Bay -- my favorite!

Need to get away before the wedding? Want a free honeymoon? Then become a fan of Caneel Bay on Facebook -- the real one, with the beach picture, not the exclamation point one that was created by some college kid :] Here are the sweepstakes details:

"We’re having a sweepstakes! Become a fan of Caneel Bay and automatically enter yourself into a chance to win a free four-night stay. Already a fan? Invite your friends! The package includes a free four-night stay, complimentary Full American meal plan, two ferry roundtrip transfers. This terrific package is valued at $4,150.50. A winner will be chosen on October 1st, 2009!"

Keep in mind that airfare and alcohol is not included in this prize package. Good luck!

And to find out a bit more about Caneel Bay, read my blog http://caneelbayhoneymoon.blogspot.com.

It's in the bag!

Right now, I'm working with Australian company Envirosax to create a giveaway of their fabulous, eco-friendly graphic tote bags, and I *love* these as your budget-friendly bridesmaids' gifts, as shower favors, and as the stylish, eye-catching guest welcome bags to hold their water bottles and organic snacks during their stay in the hotel.

Shop now, shop smarter. Several of Envirosax's collections are on sale for 25% off right now, so stock up!

Is your First Dance song creepy?

It astounds me that some people are still choosing 'I Will Always Love You' by Whitney Houston as their first dance song, since it's pretty well-known that it's a goodbye song. And what's with all the inappropriate songs for father-daughter dances? Yeesh!

There's a lot more to a song than just a catchy chorus. So you have to be careful that you're not slow-dancing to something creepy with your dad.

Check out the lyrics to the songs you have in mind for special dances and dedications at:
www.lyrics.com
www.songlyrics.com
www.romantic-lyrics.com
www.anysonglyrics.com
www.azlyrics.com

I invite you to share your stories on the most inappropriate wedding songs you've ever heard at weddings. E-mail me at my website now, and you could win a copy of my newest book "Love Bets"

Be on TLC!

Want to Say Yes to the Dress?
Find out What Not to Wear and get $5,000 worth of new clothes?
Get your invention on television?
The top TLC shows are casting now, so visit their applications page and sign up!

Guy Fieri's Help With Your Pre-Wedding Food and Drinks

First off, I must say that I love Guy Fieri. Love him. I didn't vote for him on The Next Food Network Star way back when, since I thought he was a bit arrogant --- and arrogant doesn't work in my world -- but he's now a top fave of mine, and I'd love for you to let him help out with your pre-wedding party menus and bar lists....and his ideas and menus work for an after-party or wedding weekend event, too. Check out his fabulous videos and recipe lists here.

Have you written Praise Letters?

Imagine hearing from your boss that a client was SO happy with your work that they took the time to write in to the company, singing your praises. That would do SO much for your job security and your esteem in the boss's eyes. You might get a raise or a promotion because you reflect so well on the company.

That's exactly what I'm proposing you do for your wedding vendors' staff, assistants, and the vendors themselves. It only takes a few minutes to write up a note saying, "Sheila did such a wonderful job with our wedding decor -- she really created exactly what we had in mind, and we're so thrilled that we got to work with her. We'll be sure to recommend her -- and your company -- to all of our engaged friends!" and e-mail it in to Sheila's boss.

It's a feel-good task, and since Sheila worked so hard on your behalf, it's such a generous thing to write a Praise letter at any point during your planning stage or after the wedding.

JT must have gone to a co-ed bridal shower!

Justin Timberlake's carrying my favorite, favorite, favorite eco-friendly bridal shower gift: fabulous totes from Envirosax. At just a few dollars apiece, you can't find a better shower favor than this! And the styles are adorable. Visit the site and let me know which style is your favorite!

Coordinating postage stamps? Brilliant!

If you'll make your own invitations, it's such a lovely touch to have your postage stamps match your stationery design! Check out what you can create here at MountainCow.com

There's still time to win!

Have you entered to win two new Nokia 7205 cell phones and a week's honeymoon in Jamaica? There's still time to enter the contest and win fun new His and Hers phones and a luxury getaway!

Rock the Recession, Pop the Question! New video contest!

ROCK THE RECESSION, POP THE QUESTION!!
GEMEX LAUNCHES DIGITAL VIDEO CONTEST ENCOURAGING MARRIAGE PROPOSALS DESPITE THE ECONOMY

Upload Video by July 31 at www.DiamondLightPerformance.com for Chance to Win $10,000 Prize Package Including Diamond Engagement Ring, Weekend in New York City.


The $10,000 prize package includes:

- 1 Carat Diamond Ring, certified by GemEx for superior Brilliance, Fire and Sparkle.
- Round trip airfare to New York City for two, anywhere within the continental US
- Two night stay at Loews Regency Hotel on Park Avenue
- Lunch and Dinner at The Palm, Classic American Steakhouse
- Meeting with America’s foremost wedding planner, Sharon Naylor and a collection of her Wedding Planning Books
- VIP Appointment with a Bloomingdale’s Personal Wedding Registry consultant


NEW YORK, June, 2009 – Ready to take the next step in your relationship, but need to persuade your significant other that the current state of the economy isn’t a reason to put things off?
Here’s a brilliant idea - GemEx® Systems, Inc., the global leader in diamond brilliance, fire and sparkle certification, announced today the launch of Rock the Recession, Pop the Question, a digital video contest in which lovebirds can upload a video and offer their most romantic and persuasive plea to get engaged, for a chance to win a prize package worth $10,000, including a 1 Carat GemEx certified diamond engagement ring. Submissions will be accepted until July 31.
“The diamond engagement ring is a big purchase and can be one reason to delay popping the big question,” said Randall Wagner, CEO of GemEx. “At GemEx, we are big believers in romance, and thrilled to help one happy couple move toward wedded bliss. Now there are no more excuses. We’ll provide a diamond that has been certified based on its beauty…brilliant in every way, to get things started.”

To enter, simply create an original video, 1 to 2 minutes in length, using your most creative, funny, sympathetic and romantic argument to convince your significant other to get engaged - despite today’s tough economic times. Then upload the video to www.Diamondlightperformance.com.

In addition to the GemEx certified diamond, the winners will be whisked away for a romantic getaway to New York City where they will enjoy luxurious accommodations at the famed Loews Regency Hotel. Winners will also be treated to lunch at The Palm’s newest New York City location in Tribeca with wedding planner Sharon Naylor. “Not only will the contest help a deserving couple, but the prize package includes a way for them to celebrate and start planning for the big occasion,” added Wagner.

Selecting a Winner
Submissions will be accepted as of today until July 31, 2009. The person in the video must say GemEx or show the GemEx logo at least once. Site visitors will be able to view all the videos submitted, and are given the chance to vote for their favorite through the end of August. At that point, the 5 videos with the most votes will be judged based on creativity, humor, pathos, romance and persuasiveness by three judges, Randall Wagner, CEO of GemEx Systems Inc, author Sharon Naylor and Bruce Bozzi, Jr., Executive Vice President of The Palm. The judges will then select the final winner.

The winner will be announced on or about September 15, 2009. For complete contest rules, and to upload a video, go to www.Diamondlightperformance.com

Give Great Welcome Bags

If you have guests coming in from out of town, and bridal party members, who will be staying at a hotel, be sure to provide a pretty welcome basket upon their arrival. You don't have to spend a fortune to create the best welcome basket ever. At stores like Costco, Target and WalMart, you'll find bulk goodie packages of 3-dozen snack packs that divide up perfectly into each bag...and that bag can be a simple, colored bag for $1 at the craft store! Make sure it has a sturdy handle, though....paper handles on cheap bags will rip in a heartbeat!

Here are what I would consider the Essentials for inclusion:
* At least two bottles of water
* At least two cans or bottles of soda, regular and diet
* Bags of chips and pretzels
* Bags of chocolate chip cookies, bought or homemade
* Chocolates, such as individually wrapped Lindt truffles
* Bags of candy, such as M&Ms
* A copy of the wedding weekend itinerary
* A copy of your WeddingMapper directions
* A hand-written welcome card from you

Appreciated Extras:
* Single-dose packets of Motrin and Advil
* Rolaids roll
* Emory board
* Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner and lotion in a great scent, such as from Bath & Body Works [often better than what the hotel might offer gratis]
* Coloring or activity book and crayons for kids
* $5 or $10 gift card to the hotel, for guests' use at the gift shop or restaurant
* Gift card to a nearby Dunkin Donuts [location noted on your map!] for great coffee --- hotels don't always serve the best java

What else have you seen in guest welcome baskets that you've loved? Let me know and you could win a copy of my new book Home From the Honeymoon

Do you have Thank-You notes to write?

Summer weddings in full swing mean there are a lot of you out there wanting to know how to write the perfect, personable and personalized thank-you notes for bridal shower and wedding gifts. The tricky part? Not keeping the groom motivated to sit down and write them, but rather finding the perfect, diplomatic wording for notes you'll send to those guests who did a little something unusual with their gift choices. My book The Bride and Groom Thank-You Guide gives you multiple options for writing thank-you's for the following tricky situations:

* Obvious re-gifts
* Gifts that are not from your registries
* DIY gifts that *are* your style
* DIY gifts that are not your style
* Gift cards
* Wedding gifts sent way before the wedding
* Guests attending the wedding without giving a gift (yet!)
* You've lost a few cards and got disorganized, not knowing who gave you the gravy boat and who gave you the $150!
* Charitable donation gifts you were alerted to through your registry
* Honeymoon registry gifts
* The 'future promise' gift: as in, "We'll take you out for a 5-star dinner when you get back from your honeymoon."
* The gift of legwork and labor as their wedding gift to you

Write those notes well, because people really get offended by the simplest wording!

Protect your Junior Bridesmaids and Flowergirls!

Junior bridesmaids in sexy, strapless gown to match the bridesmaids? Flowergirls being told 'that dress makes you look fat?' Pre-teens in terror over how they'll look in the spotlight at your wedding? I have the perfect expert to help you mind your child and teen attendants' comfort and well-being as part of your big day. Dara Chadwick, my lovely colleague and the author of You'd Be So Pretty If, answers a few questions here:




Q: Brides might be surprised to know that junior bridesmaids AND flower girls are worried about how they will look in their wedding day dresses! What are the signs that a young girl has concerns about this?

A: If she makes any comments about the fit of the dress or about her body – or if she keeps asking others how she looks – those are clues that she may not feel comfortable. If you know her well, you may already have a sense of her fashion preferences — she may like frilly, ultra-feminine styles or she may be more comfortable in a tailored style. A girl who dresses in surfer shorts and graphic tees might be extremely uncomfortable in a ruffled pink dress, so try to keep her personal taste in mind. Ask her if there’s a style she likes (or hates!), but keep it about the dress, not about her body; it’ll make her feel grown up to know that you value her opinion. You might also ask her mom if her daughter is at all uncomfortable with her appearance and let that guide your choice – but don’t talk to her mom in front of her. Girls this age are sensitive about sharing that kind of information.

Q: What should a bride avoid when it comes to choosing dress styles, particularly for junior bridesmaids who are starting to develop? I personally hate to see pre-teens in strapless dresses when it's so easy to have a seamstress sew on straps that still let them coordinate with the bridesmaids.

A: It’s best to avoid anything overtly sexy, like plunging necklines and extremely short lengths. At the same time, you want to honor the fact that she’s growing up and not dress her like you’d dress a five-year-old. I think it’s best to go with an age-appropriate version of what your bridesmaids are wearing (a good tailor can help with this). When I got married, I had my nine-year-old niece as a junior bridesmaid; she wore the same dress as my bridesmaids did, but hers was slightly less form-fitting and had a less-plunging back. The dress was similar enough that she felt part of the group, but it was also tailored to respect her age and her body.

Q: Should a bride just let the parents choose the dresses for the girls? What are your feelings about parental input?

A: As a mom, if a bride tried to put my daughter in a dress that I felt was too sexy or made my daughter feel uncomfortable, I’d speak up. But I wouldn’t expect that I’d be the one to choose what my daughter wore. I think it’s gracious to give parents input, but I’d suggest choosing a few dresses that you and her daughter are happy with and letting the parent choose from those. Watch out, though, for mother-daughter conflict; if the daughter loves the dress, but the mom doesn’t think it’s flattering, you’ve got a delicate situation on your hands. Talk to the mom privately about her objections; if it’s simply a matter of preference, but the daughter feels great in the dress and you like it, go with what makes your junior bridesmaid or flower girl feel great.

Q: What should you do if parents choose “too-sexy” or too-revealing dresses for junior bridesmaids? This one stuns me, but I have seen it before. A strapless dress for an 11-year-old? And when that dress inevitably fell down as the child was dancing, she ran off to the bathroom and cried!

A: Ugh – that poor girl! I think as the bride, you have to pull rank here. Simply say something along the lines of “that dress is lovely, but it’s not what I had in mind for her” or “It’s really important to me that everybody be comfortable so they can relax and enjoy my big day. I’m concerned that Susie wouldn’t be comfortable dancing in that dress.” If all else fails, throw yourself on the parent’s mercy: Choose another dress that you like and say, “I know you like that dress and it’s lovely, but I’d prefer to see her in this style.” It’s your wedding, after all.

Q: Being in the center of attention can be hard for a shy junior bridesmaid or flower girl. What’s the “right” way to make her feel comfortable about being seen by so many? What should you say? Not say?

A: If she’s uncomfortable, do everything you can to take the focus off appearance. Give her a special job to do and thank her for helping you on your big day. Tell her she looks beautiful once, then let her know how important it is to you that she’s there for you and part of your wedding. Make it about her participation, not about her appearance. If she’s truly uncomfortable about being stared at, a quick joke or whisper about how you “feel funny with everybody looking at you in this big fancy dress” lets her know that it’s OK to be nervous. Or, create a private joke between the two of you – maybe you and she agree to pretend you’re movie stars on the red carpet as you walk down the aisle. Anything that lets her know you understand her feelings helps take away the pressure to be “perfect.”

Q: Any final tips for brides when it comes to helping a junior bridesmaid or flower girl feel great?

A: When you’re shopping for a dress and trying things on, be careful with the words you use to talk about dresses you don’t like. Avoid language like, “That one makes you look hippy…or chunky…or [insert ‘body flaw’ here].” Always make it about the dress, not about her body, such as “I don’t like the cut of this dress” or “I don’t like the way this fabric drapes.” Remember, too, to downplay the importance of appearance whenever you can. Talk about the great time you’re all going to have at the wedding, rather than about how perfect you’re all going to look. And above all, let her know that you want her to wear a dress that she feels comfortable and happy in.

Buy the book here.

Subscribe to Dara’s fabulous blog at www.youdbesoprettyif.com.

Celebrate being married to an awesome person!

Already married? Just helping the bride and groom by pointing them toward my books and website? Are you the parents of the bride and groom, inspired by all of this wedding talk to remember your own Big Day? Hey, this is the perfect time for YOU to plan your own wedding vow renewal celebration! It could be a re-do of your own wedding, complete with bands and big wedding cake, or a private moment on a bluff overlooking the ocean on your next vacation. Check out my book to help you make your vow renewal perfect!

Raise the Cake!

How gorgeous is THIS?! I love the dramatic, raised platforms for your cake, and this brilliant website for Raise the Cake allows you to custom-design your own coordinating-color cake platforms (which you can also use as a cupcake platform, or use for other great desserts.) They're so gorgeous, I can even see them elevating table numbers or framed photos as centerpieces! Visit, explore, design...and Raise the Cake!

Banishing Bridezilla - YourTango

Banishing Bridezilla - YourTango

Posted using ShareThis

I love brilliant artist minds! These wallets are made from recycled suits and ties, and the price is right for fun groomsmen's and Dads' gifts.

Love it!

My novel is Kickin' on Kindle!

"It's My Wedding Too" is enjoying fabulous success in paperback, as it makes the rounds for movie rights, and now as a Kindle hot pick. Looks like real-life brides are enjoying seeing Emilie get her revenge on those battling mothers of the bride and groom!

So tell me...what do you think of the surprise ending? Did Carmela have it coming to her? And what would you like to see happen to Leah -- she can't be all work and no play, no matter how much she's in love with her new, dreamy, hotspot dessert lounge. Your ideas could help shape novel #3....

THE most hotly-anticipated bridal magazine is on the way!

You've seen me on Get Married with Colin Cowie and with David Tutera, also in segments with Preston Bailey and Sylvia Weinstock. You know the show as a gorgeous compilation of expert advice and breathtaking images for inspiration. Now, get ready for the Get Married magazine, which is coming to you FREE starting with the October issue!

We in the wedding industry are so excited about the launch of this new magazine, because we know its fresh and innovative styling is going to thrill YOU, the bride, and everyone around you. They're mixing planning ideas and savvy shopping ideas, the latest tips and trends from superstar wedding experts, and more. So make sure you subscribe to this beautiful new glossy!

Catch me on ABC News Now's 'Ahead of the Curve'

I recently appeared on ABC News Now's 'Ahead of the Curve,' talking about how technology can save you money on your wedding plans: http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=7581801.

Ritz Carlton Lodge...beauty on a budget!

A budget wedding at the Ritz-Carlton?! It CAN happen for you! Here is an announcement I just received, and get ready to marvel at the opportunity before you...

The Ritz-Carlton Lodge INTRODUCES
NEW SIGNATURE WEDDING PACKAGES
Offering ease of planning for busy, budget-conscious brides-to-be



GREENSBORO, Ga. - May 26, 2009 - The Five-Diamond Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation proudly rolls out its 2009 wedding season packages. From the “’Let’s Run Off’ Lodge Elopement” to the “Everything But the Dress,” these value-packed packages offer affordable luxury for the bride-to-be while easing the task of planning the perfect wedding.



Each of the four signature wedding packages include a choice of venue. “From a sunrise service with the backdrop of the shimmering waters of Lake Oconee, to an evening affair under towering loblolly pines in the privacy of a forest clearing, to an amorous afternoon rendezvous within The Lodge’s elegant and luxurious interiors,” said Kimberly Bachelder, Catering Sales Manager, “The Lodge is known for its vast array of inspiring ceremony settings.” Additionally, each of the planning packages offer the services of a Ritz-Carlton wedding professional to handle every detail and indulgence, so that the wedding party and family are free to enjoy the experience.



Perfect for a Vow Renewal or secret getaway wedding, the “Let’s Run Off” Lodge Elopement package is $1,250 USD and includes:

· Intimate Outdoor Setting for Wedding Ceremony

· Officiant for Wedding Ceremony

· Bottle of Champagne for Toasting

· Dedicated Special Events Manager

· Directions or transportation to and from the Greene County Courthouse for marriage license



Offering additional luxury and pampering for couples, the Romantic Rendezvous is priced at $2,675 USD and includes:

· All Lodge Elopement inclusions

· Overnight accommodations in a Luxurious Executive Suite

· Photography for Ceremony (Wedding Portrait Session)

· The Ritz-Carlton Signature Rose Bouquet and Boutonniere

· Romantic Lakeside Chiminea Dining Experience for Two

· 60-minute Couples Massage in The Ritz-Carlton Spa’s Couples Suite

· Rose Petal Turn Down

· Breakfast In Bed



The Lodge’s most popular package, Ceremony Simplicity provides a memorable ceremony setting for intimate weddings of 30 or less. Priced at $3,500 USD, it includes:

· Intimate Outdoor Setting for Wedding Ceremony

· Officiant for Wedding Ceremony

· Signature Décor at Ceremony Site

· The Ritz-Carlton Signature Rose Bouquet

· Traditional Groom’s Boutonniere

· Photography for Two Hours (Ceremony, Portrait Session and Family Portrait)

· Solo Musician to perform during Ceremony (Additional Fee for Harpist)

· Dedicated Special Events Manager

· 10% off any Spa Wedding Packages for you or your wedding party



This ceremony and reception package is ideal for guest lists of 50 to 75. Priced at $6200 USD, Everything But the Dress* includes:

· Intimate Outdoor Setting for Wedding Ceremony

· Officiant for Wedding Ceremony

· Signature Décor at Ceremony Site

· The Ritz-Carlton Signature Rose Bouquet for Bride

· Groom’s Specialty Boutonniere

· Maid of Honor Rose Bouquet

· Best Man Boutonniere

· Photography for Four Hours (Ceremony, Portrait Session and Reception)

· String Trio to perform during Ceremony and Reception (Total of Four Hours)

· Floral Centerpieces for Reception (Up to Five Centerpieces)

· Dedicated Special Events Manager

· 10% off any Spa Wedding Packages for you or your wedding party

· Complimentary two-night first anniversary stay, redeemable at The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation



The Lodge’s Signature Wedding Packages are available Sunday through Friday and Saturday prior to 4 p.m. Prices above do not include applicable service charge and tax. For parties of 15 or more, a Food and Beverage Package is required. For additional information on The Ritz-Carlton Lodge’s Destination Wedding packages, please contact The Lodge’s Catering Sales team at (706) 467-7115 or visit the resort’s website at www.ritzcarltonlodge.com.



The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation is a AAA Five Diamond resort, providing guests legendary Ritz-Carlton service highlighted by gracious southern hospitality. The Lodge is recognized as one of the “Greatest Hotels and Resorts in the World” by Travel + Leisure (2009 T+L500) and is named one of 50 Top Resorts in the U.S. by Zagat (Zagat Survey 2009). The 251-room Lodge is secluded on the sparkling shores of Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia, with 99 holes of golf designed by the greatest architects of the game, Mobil Four-Star-rated Spa with southern-inspired service and exclusive Lodge adventures from fishing for large mouth bass to horseback riding and canoeing.

"It's My Wedding Too" on Amazon's hot chick lit list!

Amazon suggests my novel "It's My Wedding Too" among hot chick lit titles by:
Jennifer Weiner
Plum Sykes
Helen Fielding
Emily Giffin
and Sophie Kinsella!

It's almost beach-read time, and it is wedding season, so pick up my comedic tale about a battling Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom and all the chaos they cause before the Big Day. [And don't fret that the graphic is different on the order page: we have the fresh new cover (seen above), so if the title's right, the book is right!]

Enjoy, and don't forget to let me know what you love about the book! It's been a top book club pick at PashWeddings and iVillage, so you might even want to book club with your friends and bridesmaids over my novel. E-mail me, and I might just call in to chat with you all about it!

Wanna Bet?

My book Love Bets is on the front tables at bookstores all over the country, and couples are writing to me with reports of the fabulous things they're winning in bets with their spouses:

"We're going for a 3-day weekend getaway, without the kids, for the first time in 5 years. I got to pick the destination." - Sam, New York City

"He has to make me breakfast every day this week. The American Idol results went my way! Sorry, Danny Gokey, but I'm getting my waffles and bacon!" -- Elizabeth, Houston

"She's washing my car right now. I picked out her outfit." -- James, Sarasota

Here's what else my Love Betting couples are winning: handbag shopping sprees, foot massages, cleanup of the dog's messes in the backyard [oooo -- that's quite a wager, people!], taking the kids every Sunday so Mom gets a day off, three things knocked off the To Do list this weekend, trip to the winery, and a karaoke performance. What will YOU win with Love Bets?

Get your copy here, and have more fun with your partner!

Who wants a week in Jamaica?

Sign on to win a week's honeymoon -- or second honeymoon if you're already married -- at www.techsavvybride.com, where you can also win two phenomenal new Nokia 7205 Intrigue cell phones and find out how technology can help you improve your wedding planning process, keep you organized, save money and -- most importantly -- maintain your relationships with everyone around you.

I just returned from taping a segment on ABC News Now's 'Ahead of the Curve' where I shared insider secrets about how this particular Nokia phone organizes your wedding vendor calls and messages AUTOMATICALLY, so that you can keep their quotes, your orders and your payments organized, saving you the headache of checking messages on your 4 different e-mail accounts. The phone does it automatically! So when that florist says you didn't pay your deposit, you can just whip out your Intrigue and show her that Yes, you did make the payment and she sent you a thank you message. No paying double for you. On a design front, the Nokia 7205 has a Habitat mode that assigns nature icons for each of your contacts. And they have His and Hers models. Check it out at www.techsavvybride.com, and get your His and Hers phones instead of spending hundreds on those His and Hers tee shirts, hats, and underwear sets.

Like the phone? Send me an e-mail, and I'll give one winner a month a copy of my newest book "Home From the Honeymoon," giving you tips for handling the first, challenging year of marriage.

Catch me on Arizona Bride!

Arizona Bride has posted a lovely review of my book "Home From the Honeymoon"

This new book helps newlyweds celebrate all of the Firsts of their first year of marriage, and also tackle the many challenges of adjusting to life as Marrieds. No more post-wedding blues! There's so much to look forward to...

'Here Come the Moms' Show #7 is now live!

'Here Come the Moms,' my show at Wedding Podcast Network, is now live with our newest installment! Listen in here to find out the newest ways that brides and their moms can face the challenge of a wedding budget together, get some things for FREE, and not sacrifice quality on the wedding day.

Personalize your wedding with Caribbean 'Shells of the Month'

While my husband and I were on our second honeymoon on St. John, we visited a lovely jewelry shop in Mongoose Junction and discovered this fun chart about the 'Shells of the Month,' which works a lot like birthstones and the flowers of the month. The jeweler casts actual shells using precious metals in his work, but you can incorporate the real deal in your decor. Check it out to see if your island destination wedding or honeymoon could use a fun shell theme with meaning:

Attributes of Shells, from http://www.pattongold.com/shell_attributes.htm

In the 1970s R&I PATTON collected local* shells and made molds of them in order to cast them in solid 18k, 14k and sterling. They are beautiful, lasting tokens of remembrance for an amazing island and a significant event.

Seashells and what they have come to represent:

January:
Starfish: orderliness, charisma, honesty, persistence, regeneration, originality

February:
Limpet: intensity, stability, determination, durability, steadfastness

March:
Scallop:truth, faithfulness, trustworthiness, precision, balance, dependability

April:
Tulip:sweetness, compassion, loveliness, kindness, tranquility, love

May:
Murex: poise, beauty, intricacy, intelligence - very feminine shell

June:
Sanddollar:loyalty, encouragement, reliability, certainty, predictability

July:
Coral:warmth, charm, openness, complexity, enthusiasm, zeal

August:
Urchin: boldness, confidence, creativity, decisiveness, certainty, bravery

September:
Cowry: prosperity, worth, generosity, directness, ambition, versatility

October:
Flamingo Tongue: strength, simplicity, potency, courage - a very masculine shell

November:
Triton: expansiveness, loquaciousness, wildness, energy, passion

December:
Conch: power, leadership, devotion, optimism, cooperation, harmony

* Since it is now illegal to remove any shells from the beaches and waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands, these precious metal replicas are great and lasting mementos.

These shells make wonderful wedding party gifts. Our staff would be happy to help you decide about which shells would be appropriate for individuals in your group.



For more on personalizing your wedding, visit my site!

View my wish list on Wishpot »

Win a pair of Nokia phones and a Honeymoon!

Announcing my new position as the Bridal Spokesperson for Nokia's new Intrigue!

With wedding season around the corner and brides looking to simplify the planning process, technology tools are taking the place of the personal wedding planner for a new generation.


Sharon Naylor, bridal expert and author of more than 35 wedding books – including 'Home From the Honeymoon' to be released in May – is available for in-person or phone interviews. Sharon has partnered with Nokia to help brides use technology to plan the wedding of their dreams, without the stress! From keeping in touch with far away bridesmaids to avoiding late fees, Sharon will show consumers how to use technology to make the entire planning process a breeze!

Wedding Planning Tips

Share Updates: Allow long-distance friends and relatives to get in on the fun wedding details by posting quick and easy updates to Twitter or Facebook right from your mobile phone.
Stay Organized: Organization is key to saving money and limiting wedding stress! Your phone can be your ultimate wedding organizer. For example, with the Nokia 7205 Intrigue, available at Verizon Wireless, you can lose the big, heavy wedding binder and access all of your important phone numbers, calendar and images of your dress, your venue and your dream flowers in one light device.
Map it Out: Use free online mapping sites such www.weddingmapper.com to create your wedding map. This handy tool allows you to create a personalized map of your ceremony, reception, hotels, etc for out of town guests.
Create your Virtual You to Save Time: Build a virtual model of yourself online at My Virtual Model (MVM.com) to try on your outfits for every bridal occasion. Invite your wedding party including bridesmaids and mother of the bride to do the same. Doing it all online instead of traveling to stores saves time and budget.
Streamline Your Guest List: Skip the traditional reply cards and invite your guests to R.S.V.P. online through your personal wedding web site at The Knot.com. Your guest list will be easy to manage and you can check for updates anytime from your mobile device or at home!

Nokia is also hosting a Tech Savvy Bride Sweepstakes for one lucky bride to win a seven-night honeymoon package and a pair of Nokia 7205 Intrigues to share with her groom. Click here for more information: http://www.techsavvybride.com.

Please let me know if you are interested in scheduling an interview.

Have a smaller more intimate wedding!

I love that my fellow wedding authors are such wonderful people -- not at all agressively competitive, but so willing to partner up and work together well...which is why so many of the 'generous in spirit' pros skyrocket to the top!

Today, I'm recommending my colleague Christina's wonderful book Intimate Weddings. Here's more info on her terrific book:

Small weddings rock. In fact, thanks to the economy, small weddings are one of the biggest trends of 2009.

If you are one of the thousands of brides planning a small wedding, check out Christina Friedrichsen’s Intimate Weddings: Planning a Small Wedding that Fits Your Budget and Style.

In Intimate Weddings: Planning a Small Wedding that Fits Your Budget and Style , Christina Friedrichsen shows you how to plan a wedding that is small in scale but full of your personality and style. Inside you will find:

* Inspiring stories and advice from couples who have planned small and intimate weddings

* Creative location, ceremony and reception ideas for throwing a wedding that matches your personality

* Inventive ways to get loved ones involved with wedding planning and the wedding day events.

* realistic wedding budgets from real-life couples.

It's time to think outside the "big wedding" box and explore the possibilities of a small and intimate wedding. Before you walk down the aisle, consult the guide that shares your perspective: Intimate is ultimate! And don’t forget to check out www.intimateweddings.com which lists more than 1,300 small wedding venues throughout North America. The website also has a blog (www.intimateweddings.com/blog) with heaps of helpful information on planning a small wedding.

Get your copy at the website now!

What have YOU won with 'Love Bets'?

My book 'Love Bets' has people winning great things! And enjoying *losing* bets to their partner, when the payout is something they really, really want to do.

My publisher and I would love to hear what YOU'VE won from your partner in the 'Love Bets' you've made while using the book. When The Today Show and Good Morning America plan their segments on this book, we just might bring you along to share your story!

Get your copy of the book here.

SmartMoney's hot destinations

Looking for a great deal on a destination wedding or honeymoon hotspot? SmartMoney.com has just released its exciting, exotic list of destinations where the dollar is strong and the scenery spectacular for your smart wedding site shopping: www.smartmoney.com/Spending/Travel/6-Vacation-Spots-to-Stretch-Your-Dollar/.

Dream big. Spend small. Travel wisely.

Check out my budget-saving books at www.sharonnaylor.net/books.htm

Set aside an emergency fund!

With the wedding plans in full swing, you might be looking at your bank account and credit cards, maybe your tax refund check, as your All-Wedding-Access-Cash. But be careful...

Take a bunch of your money and put it away, safely in an emergency fund. There's no protective bubble that forms around brides and grooms the minute you get engaged. Since we live in a world where anything can happen, you have to make sure that you have a nice chunk of change available to use if any emergencies come up.

Right now, I'm sitting in a tarped-off room while plumbers jackhammer my foyer floor away, looking for a pipe problem under the house. If this had hapened last year, while my husband and I were planning our wedding, we would have lost our minds.

An emergency doesn't have to involve plumbers. It could be a new tire that you have to get for your car to replace a flat. A co-pay at the doctor's office for an antibiotic. Your dog's vet bill. Small or large, you need that money set aside so that you have peace of mind as well, and are not fighting with your groom-to-be about money.

So stash some cash away, and if you have it leftover when the wedding arrives, that's Play Money for the Honeymoon (or a smart start on your married life emergency fund.)

Get your copy of The Bride's Survival Guide to find out how else you can save your wedding, your sanity and your relationship!

My new logo! And Sharon's white tee shirt contest!

The Sharon Naylor brand gets a makeover today, as I select the winner of my brand logo competition...and here it is! So my new brand logo is official, and VistaPrint is working on my letterhead, business cards, presentation folders, and very cute tee shirts that you will be able to order through my site very soon.

So this starts Contest #2: please share your ideas for the tee shirt wording! I'm looking for funny or sweet -- nothing Bridezilla-ish.

Listen to something better than the news

Image courtesy of Caneel Bay on St. John.


How much more scary news can we take? Immersing yourself in the downer of the day is only going to depress you, so find a more soothing voice to listen to. In my world, it's Kerstin Sjoquist, who has created beautiful meditation CDs and downloads on her site.

You'll also find a little something on her site that she worked on with me, so check it out!

Oh, and I'm newly on Twitter, so follow me at @sharonnaylorwed.

Free Manicures for Brides!

Okay, so this article in Glamour is talking about a brilliant marketing plan by a nail salon in California, but YOU can turn their genius into a Free Manicure plan for you!

The next time you go for a mani-pedi, suggest to your salon owner that today's brides are stressed-out and cash-strapped, so wouldn't it be the coolest thing ever if their salon offered a free monthly manicure to brides-to-be? Hey, it can't hurt to ask, and most salon owners facing customers' cut-backs in disposable funds would love to draw fresh, new customers into their place.

Memory Photos on Your Bouquet

Photo courtesy of Tory Williams (http://www.torywilliams.com/weddings)


The Fine Art of Family offers wonderful little photo charms that you can attach to your bouquet if you would like to honor a departed relative or friend during your walk down the aisle.

If your father is departed, and not able to escort you down the aisle, you can attach his photo in a charm to your bouquet so that he can join you in a bit more than spirit as you approach your groom. If a mother has departed, her photo can grace your bouquet as well.

I love the concept and design of these, so I encourage you to visit the site for more information!

The Top 100 Wedding Blogs!

Today was a big day for wedding bloggers everywhere, as BrideTide.com announced its list of the Top 100 Wedding Blogs! And I'm so proud to share with you the news that my iVillage blog is on the list!

As they say on the red carpet, it's an honor to be nominated, but it's way cooler to get on the A-list. Many thanks to the team at BrideTide, and I recommend my readers to go check them out!

Give Back! Designing Charitable Favor Cards

I LOVE this site for Charitable Registries and Charitable Wedding Favors: ChangingThePresent.org. Finding a way to Give Back with your wedding has long been a trend, and it's only growing stronger as we think about the value of wedding gifts and favors, and how wonderful it is to choose something that adds to humanity, and makes a difference, far more than a little silver wedding frame.

Check out their DIY package so that you can choose from some wonderful offerings -- Adopt a Tiger ($40), Plant 40 Trees ($22) and fabulous favors such as Equip Artisans ($5) and Provide Back-To-School Supplies for needy kids ($5). They even have a $1 Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich donation for a kids' food pantry. What a great late-night favor that would be: a mini PB&J slider for the road, as hungry guests leave your reception after hours of dancing, plus a cute note that you've designed on this site announcing that they've just fed a hungry child. This is a wonderful thing!

Make your wedding maps at WeddingMapper.com!

Here's an easy and fun way for you to create your own wedding maps together! WeddingMapper.com's DIY section allows you to design and print your own icon-studded directions for your wedding invitations, and if you have any questions, they have an expert available to help you out!

I love this site so much, we used it to create our own wedding maps for our Big Day, and I'm their new Q&A Expert for all topics related to finding the perfect venue and vendors! Just click on Advice at the top of the DIY maps page to get to my section.

Great cake toppers!

If you want your wedding to sparkle, even after you've taken a lot of cost-cutting steps to make your Big Day more affordable, check out these dazzling cake toppers:






A description from the company: "Elegant details put the finishing touch on the big day. When it comes to the reception, everyone notices the cake. Why not make the cake standout even more? Toppers With Glitz adds a little bling to wedding cakes with custom designed crystal cake toppers. Extra edible components can increase the cost of your cake – and they are usually thrown away. Glam toppers are hand made with CRYSTALIZED Swarovski Elements AND they are a fun keepsake. Three-letter monogram toppers come in various sizes and custom made designs are offered, including palm trees or snowflakes, anything to go with your theme.

"Designer Sari Watkins hand makes every topper herself. While planning her own wedding she searched everywhere for high quality monogrammed cake toppers. She wasn’t happy with the selection so she started her own business. Toppers With Glitz specializes in customizing artwork, lettering styles and crystal colors. The possibilities are endless and gorgeous!

For more information: www.topperswithglitz.com
Email Sari: Questions@topperswithglitz.com

Check out Presents For Purpose

When you're looking for gifts for your bridesmaids, the moms, and any other special person in your life, it's always a great feeling to buy an item that 'gives back' to charity. I'm especially excited to recommend this website, for its great work and high-fashion angle, organic items and 'go pink' selections that help a cause and might just fit with your wedding's color scheme ;)

Presents for Purpose (PFP)— www.presentsforpurpose.com —was founded in 2002 by Alayna Kassan and Cynthia W. Dressel, two Lymphoma survivors who, along with PFP co-owner Leslie Weissman, wanted to give back to the community that had been there for them during their struggles. The women originally designed and began selling crystal watches, their first retail collection which quickly sold out, resulting in a $20,000 donation to the Lymphoma Research Foundation. Since that time, the site has grown exponentially and now offers hundreds of high-fashion, high-quality and in many cases, designer gift ideas for women, men and children. Items range from fashionable apparel and jewelry to hand bags, baby gifts, organic/green items, “go pink” items, stationary and even personalized gifts in all price ranges. PFP has teamed up with and/or has been supported by a number of celebrities including Miley Cyrus, Teri Hatcher, Lisa Rinna, Jessica Biel, Marisol Thomas and Ethan Zohn.

In many cases, PFP works with the individual charities and designers to create a gift that represents the core of that particular charities work, an example of which can be found in their latest piece of jewelry, added to the site. The “beauty within” butterfly necklace (shown above) supports children with a vascular anomaly.

Do something stupid, get a free honeymoon?

I knew it when I saw these two giggly post-teens on the Today Show. The girl apparently swallowed the engagement ring that the oh-so-creative boyfriend slipped into her milkshake, and -- good thing they had a camera rolling! I always need video evidence of my having a milkshake! -- and now she's blogging that maybe, just maybe, they'll get a free honeymoon out of the deal.

So we're in a recession, right? I'm thinking....we'll start seeing some pretty creative efforts via YouTube and its best friend The Today Show enacted by opportunists trying to get a free vacation and a free wedding.

I know that there will be lots of people out there nodding their heads, admiring these kids, saying 'Wow, that's clever.' I happen to know some of these people by name, and I'm sure they're greasing up some jewelry ready to go win themselves a fresh trip to Hawaii.

And then I know many, many more people who would never pull a trick like this.

'Here Come the Moms' at Wedding Podcast Network

Last week, I had the pleasure of getting back into the studio with Robert Allen and Holli Ehrlich of Wedding Podcast Network for our newest talk show segment tapings for the MOTHERS of the bride and groom (and the bride who loves them). This week, we delve into the dark ravings of the mom who wants to be the bride, or who THINKS she's the bride. Why do Moms lose their minds? How can a Mom make it up to you when she's gone too far? Tune in to hear about Mama Dramas and the sweet solutions that get everyone back on track.

Five lucky listeners will win a signed copy of my new book 'The Bride's Survival Guide.'

Sweepstakes and contests for the bride!

Since so many wedding traditions are all about Luck (tossing the bouquet, the first dance, the old, new, borrowed and blue, etc.), you can consider yourself lucky that you have so many opportunities to WIN so many amazing things for your wedding and for your future together!

At every bridal show you attend, you could win a free honeymoon, free photography, free hair and makeup services, and more. Some couples win free receptions! Not bad for an hour on Sunday browsing through the bridal expo at the Ramada!

If you're the contest-entering type, now is a VERY good time for you. The top bridal sites offer plenty of contests, and you'll find amazing contests at your favorite magazines' websites. Here is one that's going on right now...the chance to win a free Prius from Better Homes and Gardens. I've signed on to their site so that I get access to all kinds of national contests, and with an easy click, it signs me up for my daily entry. Piece of cake. Right now, I'm trying to win an elliptical, which would be an amazing addition to our home gym.

Where else will you find great contests for life after the wedding? Go straight to HGTV, and get connected to their awesome contests, as well as to those at DIY Network and Fine Living.

In this economy, you're going to find bigger and better contest prizes out there, and it costs nothing to sign on. Just make sure you're being smart and not giving out your SS# or other personal data that could get your identity stolen. I find that sweepstakes endorsed by these major media websites are usually safe, but I still read the fine print.

Good luck to you!

Real brides and grooms offering vendor referrals

Now this is a good one!

We all know that the best way to find outstanding wedding vendors, and to find the best wedding sites, is to ask recently-married friends and relatives who they used, who they would recommend, and who they didn't like.

But what if no one you know has gotten married recently? What if you've just moved to a new area and don't have a big circle of friends to consult with yet? Are you out of luck? No, there's a great resource called Wedding Mapper that not only lets you build a fun map for your guests' use in finding the hotel, ceremony and reception sites; it shows you Real Life wedding couples in your area, who they used, how they rated them, what they had to say about them AND you can e-mail those couples to ask any additional questions you have.

It's a fabulous extra tool in your research, to get you the best of everything on a budget that's right for you. Joe and I used this site when we were planning our wedding, and we loved it. I've recommended it in the past as a fun budget-saving way to do the directions thing, but I also wanted you to know about the 'inside scoop' element!

What are grooms buying for their brides INSTEAD of diamond jewelry?

Diamonds are expensive these days, but grooms still want to get something fabulous for their brides. Find out in my cover story, "5 Questions With Sharon Naylor" at Brides.com.

My Mother of the Bride Book is #1 on Amazon!

Lots of Moms out there are getting the advice and ideas they need to be wonderful wedding-planning partners. My book The Mother of the Bride Book is the #1 book for moms on Amazon.com, with my Mother of the Groom book also tops on its own list.

Since moms are important members of the planning team, I've enjoyed focusing on them and helping them navigate the new trends and etiquette rules, both in my books and at my podcast "Here Come the Moms" at Wedding Podcast Network.

Another perk of giving Mom a book of her own? I say the things you want to say, like "Chill out," "It's the bride and groom's wedding, not yours," and "Stop trying to compete with your friends or the in-laws."

Catch me on Get Married...again!

New Jersey Bride and 'The Bachelor' wedding gown

My editor Molly Tully at New Jersey Bride has just posted a very fun blog about the wedding gowns that could potentially be worn by The Bachelor's pick. Read it here and join the discussion about what his Bride might select!

Embattled Bridesmaids, Sylvia Weinstock, Preston Bailey and Colin Cowie

Whew! It's been quite a day! I invite you to visit www.getmarried.com to see my segment that aired this morning -- all about smart booking of your wedding day transportation...and while you're viewing the show, check out my 'opening act' of Sylvia Weinstock, Ron Ben-Israel, Preson Bailey and Colin Cowie and their latest masterpieces.

Since you'll be working closely with your bridesmaids, check out my interview on Irene Levine's blog Fractured Friendships, to make sure that you don't wreck the harmony between you and your friends. This is Part2 of my discussion with Irene, so be sure to check out Part 1 as you peruse her phenomenal site!

Catch me on Get Married!

This is just one of my recent appearances on Get Married with Colin Cowie. Tune in on the 18th and the 25th of this month to see my newest segments, and keep an eye on my website to catch my past appearances.

We're building a new Sharon Naylor on TV page that will be up shortly, so you'll see plenty more of my appearances on Get Married there!

Combat wedding stress with some Love Bets!

Laughter makes all the wedding stress go away...and so does reminding yourselves how much fun you both have together when your world isn't full of Wedding To-Do's, envious friends and pushy parents. I wrote this book to bring some laughs back into your life, to give you tame, romantic and racy things to 'win' from each other, laugh at yourself, show your skills (and by that, I mean tennis or bowling! But you can interpret that however you'd like!) and generally just show your 'awesome side' to your partner again...instead of being miserable, tense and stressed-out by the wedding plans.

Look at this book as an investment in keeping the two of you close during this busy time...and good luck with your bets! Write to me through my website to share your Love Bets stories. I may just include YOU and your bets in the 2nd edition of this book!

Get your copy of Love Bets here.

Show Me Some Roses

Your floral designer can best create your dream wedding flowers when you have photos to show...and I have a great resource for you: the White Flower Farm Catalog, which is gorgeous, filled with detailed photos of classic and new varietals of roses, dahlias, lilies, orchids, lavender...any type of flowers you'd like to incorporate into your wedding decor.

As an added perk, the catalog will serve you well if you're going to plan a garden, some borders or container plants together. Joe and I have an amazing area mapped out for a shade garden, and I can't get enough of the suggestions in this catalog. So look at this handy catalog as a great tool for Now and Later!

Etta James/ Beyonce versions of 'At Last'

Okay, normally I don't get involved in celebrity catfights, but since we're talking about the #1 First Dance song at weddings, I have to speak up about the Etta James/Beyonce clash reported here.

I can TOTALLY understand Etta James's displeasure at not being given the chance to sing her own song at the momentous occasion. This is her song. She sings it at every concert and -- in my opinion -- knocks it out of the park with pitch-pure tones and a voice that brings her faithful fans to tears. I was a MESS at her concert. I was BLISSED-OUT dancing to "At Last" at my own wedding.

There's no denying Beyonce is a tremendous talent, and her presence at the inaugural festivities was a crowd-pleaser.

I'm not going to justify, defend or otherwise comment on reported remarks by Ms. James, because no one ever knows the real story. I just would have LOVED to see BOTH women perform the song for the Obamas. It would have been amazing.

So when the Team Etta and Team Beyonce shirts hit the market in a few hours, it will be interesting to get reports from professional deejays on the percentages of brides and grooms who request Etta's version and Beyonce's version of the song for their wedding playlists.

Bouquet Chic is a Bride's Must-Have!

My review of 'Bouquet Chic' by Kimberly Aurora Kapur:

I must have said 'Wow!' twenty times *before* page 20! This book is visually stunning, well-written, and inspiring in a way that few other bridal floral books have achieved. At once modern and fashionable, the looks are achievable no matter where you stand on the Chic Scale. This is THE book you want to buy for the best images to show your own floral designer, and THE book you want to flip through for a boost on days when wedding planning is stressful. It's impossible to be tense when you're looking at vibrant orange bouquets and romantic sage green and white cascades. The text is brilliant, the production quality brilliant, and you'll even find inspiration for your wedding PHOTOS...surely, you'll open this book in front of your photographer and say "I want a shot like THIS!" Bouquet Chic is a must-have!