Royal Wedding Traditions

As William & Kate get married this Friday they will be following some Royal Wedding traditions. And, because they are young, and it's modern times, they will also not be partaking in some common wedding rituals.

Traditions they are following:

• Kate's gown will have sleeves due to both Royal and Church of England protocol
• A white dress is a must as it's a Royal tradition that dates back to the very first white wedding dress worn by Queen Victoria
• Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue
• Kate's wedding band will include Welsh gold, a Royal tradition
• The bouquet will have a sprig of myrtle in it
• Her bouquet will be left in Westminster Abbey at the grave of the "unknown warrior"
• Once married they will share a kiss on the balcony
• Prince William and his Bride will sleep in separate residences on the eve of their wedding
• Their wedding procession will follow the tradition Westminster route

Traditions they are not following:

• Kate will arrive to the ceremony by car rather than by ceremonial coach
• Three different clergymen will conduct the marriage instead of just one
• William will not wear a wedding band, he's simply not a jewelery wearing kind of guy

Will you be watching on Friday to see the dress, the decor, the glamour and the love? We will be up at 3am taking it all in as I was asked to write a piece for The Hamilton Spectator giving a Planner's prospective on the grand affaire!

We look forward to writing a few posts about the wedding, the first being featured on the 30th.

Popping the question

With December right around the corner, did you know that it's the most popular month to 'pop the question'?  Did you also know that more men are choosing to propose with a 'pop of colour'?

Gemstone engagement rings have gotten more popular lately - especially with the recent engagement of Prince William & Catherine Middleton. He gave her his late mother, Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring.

Also sporting a bright beauty is Jessica Simpson - who got a ruby engagement ring.

     

Would you prefer a gemstone over a diamond?

Gemstones have different meanings and come in a variety of colours. He could choose your favourite colour, or match your birthstone.

Or, what about getting a 'so-called' used ring like the one William gave Kate? I don't believe in any of those superstitions about a ring being cursed. The jewlery wasn't the cause of a failed relationship, and I think if it can be reworn again and make someone else happy - then why not? Plus, pre-owned rings are better for the environment and your wallet.

Check out local pawn shops or online vendors for engagement rings. Look on sites like Kijiji, and Yes Bride to save on overhead costs, etc. The rule of spending '3 months' worth of your salary on a ring is phewy. You should spend what you can afford and choose a ring that you think best suits your mate. You can have her choose the ring, or select a few that she likes for guidance. Or, you can make the choice all on your own and she should love it no matter what because she loves you.

If you're 'popping the question' next month - all the best to you and your future Bride.

*Images from Google Images