The Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner : Worksheets, Checklists, Etiquette, Calendars, and Answers to FrequentlyAsked Questions
by CARLEY RONEY
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (28 December, 1999)
list price: $16.00 -- our price: $10.88
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Editorial Review

This practical companion to The Knot Complete Guide to Weddings in the Real World acts as a stand-alone guide to the nuts and bolts of planning a wedding. The Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner is where the bride and groom can record wedding ideas, create budget guidelines, check items off their to-do list, generate the guest list, store contact information for their wedding vendors, and get tips and advice on the best way to plan their big day.

Chapter by chapter, the planner walks the bridal couple through each major step: for example, choosing the reception site, picking a photographer, and deciding on a menu. Author Carley Roney and the editors of The Knot Web site have talked with both wedding professionals and hundreds of thousands of brides and grooms, and have a good idea of the necessary ingredients for a successful wedding. Most helpful and thorough are each chapter's "Questions to Ask" checklists and the "Knot Knowledge" tips, which include money-saving ideas. The book also contains a gift log, a budget tracker, and a wedding-day phone contacts sheet.

Roney offers loads of helpful advice, such as recommending that the bride and groom declare "wedding free zones" where the couple makes time for activities together that have nothing to do with planning the wedding. Each chapter also includes her down-to-earth answers to commonly asked questions, such as whether it's appropriate for a relative to host a shower or if the wedding couple should pay for guests' travel expenses. With all of its tips, advice, and organizers, The Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner may just be, next to a wedding coordinator, the best way for modern couples to ensure their wedding is a smoothly run, stress-free affair. --Kris Law ... Read more

Reviews (15)

How could a site like the Knot put out a book this bad?
I bought this book the day after I got engaged, and the sentimental value the book has is really all that it has to offer.I don't understand how a website so complete like "The Knot" could manage to put out a book like this.

The information inside the book is vague and in reality, mostly meaningless.Take the "Invitations" section, for example.The chapter is 7 pages long, and out of those 7 pages, 5 1/2 of them are worksheets.Advice on how to word the invitations?This is what the book has to say: "Spend some time familiarizing yourself with all of the (frighteningly) specific wording conventions and addressing rules - if only to understand what others will expect. (We don't go into minute detail here.)"That last part isn't an understatement, since there are no pages that contain sample layouts of invites or suggested wording or phrasing for invitations.How can a wedding planner consider itself complete if it doesn't even offer one suggestion for wedding invitation phrasing?

I wish I had gone through this book better before buying it, since all this book has to offer is mediocre lists and worksheets, which, again, you could get better versions of if you went to "The Knot" website.I also have to say that the information inside is surprisingly inaccurate with some questionable etiquette outlines.If you are planning a wedding that is anything other than the conventional wedding, like a destination wedding, you'll find this book next to useless since it doesn't spend any time discussing how to arrange destination, theme, or double weddings.Another thing this book doesn't have that all books of this nature should is a back index...So there is no fast way to look up specific information.

When it comes to this book, pass.Save the $16 and just get all the info off their website.I give this book 2 stars for the quantity of worksheets it has (even though they are highly basic), and because I'm sure that everybody will find a couple of items of interest in the book, but that's about it.

Same info as their website for free
The Knot also has the sad habit of condoning "rituals" that are and should continue to be socially unacceptable, such as family-hosted showers, money dances and Bridezilla behavior. Read Miss Manners or go to etiquettehell.com if you really want to know what to do - or not.

Do KNOT bother
I suppose the book is straight forward, and such.

It has a clean "style" to it-- probably because it contains NO useful information inside.

I only bought this book because I am really impressed with theknot.com, so I assumed they'd have a fabulous book too. WRONG. Skip this book. ... Read more

Isbn: 0767902475
Subjects:  1. Love / Sex / Marriage    2. Planning    3. Reference    4. Wedding etiquette    5. Weddings    6. Reference / Weddings    7. Journals    8. Wedding   

Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul : Stories of Love, Laughter and Commitment to Last a Lifetime (Canfield, Jack)
by Jack Canfield Mark Victor Hansen Maria Nickless Gina Romanello
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (27 January, 2004)
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Reviews (6)

This book is a must have for all new brides!
I saw this book advertised online and I bought it at our local book store when I became engaged. If you are a bride to be or in love or just love romance? This is the book for you the stories will tug at your heart strings, make you laugh,cry and even think about your new love. I am getting married this Nov 04 and the stories are AWESOME!

When you get busy with life's details reach for this book and find a comfortable chair and get cozy. You will not be sorry that you bought this book.I'm glad I bought this book it's fantastic.

The Important Things
Upon reading this book, I am immediately reminded of how strong the bond between couples in love must be, and how they can be.The stories in "Bride's Soul" consistently serve to regenereate and reinforce the fact that a lifelong love becomes a relationship in which the importance of the individual's existence gladly takes a back seat to the value of the couple's happiness together.
Love is a matter of respect, understanding, admiration, loyalty, strength, honor and commitment; and this book exemplifies all of these grand qualities in a language anyone could understand. I recommend this heartwarming book to any person who wonders about love, and all the power that it holds.

Thank You

Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul
This great book had me laughing and crying with touching stories on every page. It is not only a great gift for any new bride, but for anyone who has ever been a bride. An excellent anniversary gift idea. This book puts the important things in life into crystal clear perspective. If you like a good love story you will LOVE 101 of them in one book! ... Read more

Isbn: 0757301401
Sales Rank: 74786
Subjects:  1. Anecdotes    2. Brides    3. Customs & Traditions    4. Inspirational    5. Inspirational - General    6. Manners And Customs    7. Marriage    8. Motivational & Inspirational    9. Reference    10. Social Science    11. Sociology - Marriage & Family    12. Weddings    13. Reference / Weddings   

Going Bridal: How to Get Married Without Losing Your Mind
by LiRobbins
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (03 December, 2003)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
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Reviews (5)

Funny and Frank
Stumbled on this book and found it so different from the other wedding books I've read -- in a good way. Read the other reviews and think Mr. Grumpy is just that. My fiance read parts of it and laughed out loud, and believe me, he's not usually into chick lit type stuff. It's pretty true to life and very entertaining. Only criticism is it isn't obvious right away that the beginning of chapters are fictional, but ended up liking those parts as much as the real life stories.

Let me out of here
OK, I'll be honest here - I'm a man and so perhaps completely unqualified to comment on this book. But my fiancée agrees with me that The Rules are a load of rubbish, so I feel emboldened.... I'm afraid that I can't take any book seriously that is written entirely in Cosmo-style gush (e.g. p1: 'I have three, count 'em, three friends getting married this year'). Sure, write a little magazine article like this, but a whole book? My skin started crawling after a few paragraphs. I'd have given it one star but I feel I should be open-minded enough to allow that Cosmo might have SOME value hidden to my masculine brain.

Refreshing!
Finally a bridal book that isn't full of "to-do" lists and etiquette rules!This is a bible for the indie hipster, full of humorous stories and personal experiences that guide, not instruct, the bride-to-be in planning her perfect day.Now all may read first hand how to avoid the pitfalls of family pressures and friends' expectations gracefully and with ease.Buy this book for all your girlfriends on their way to being hitched, you won't regret it, and they won't go bridal! ... Read more

Isbn: 0071426124
Sales Rank: 313418
Subjects:  1. Brides    2. Manners And Customs    3. Marriage    4. Planning    5. Psychology    6. Reference    7. Stress Management    8. Stress management for women    9. Weddings    10. Humor / General   

Bridal Bargains: Secrets to Throwing a Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget (Bridal Bargains)
by Denise Fields Alan Fields
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 November, 2002)
list price: $14.95
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Reviews (198)

for those who cry "illegal and immoral"
Hello people...

When they suggest "burn music to cds" they do not mean to illegally steal music online. They mean to collect your fav. songs, either from yours or your friends cd collection, and burn a mix of those songs.

Wake up and stop jumping to conclusions. You are misrepresenting a book you haven't even read properly. :(

Invaluable Resource!
I saved more than the $500 promised by this book.Very practical, speaks to the average working person about how to be elegant while cutting costs.Who has $20,000 to spend on a wedding?If this is average, are people re-financing their homes for the event?Sorry that is more than 1/4 of my husbands and my combined income.Even if I were able to, would never have spent that amount of money on one day.This book teaches you to prioritize and avoid the wedding scams.Great investment, worth its weight in gold!

If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would.
This book has become my bible. I have saved so much money using this book. It offers no-nonsense tips that can be achieved by everyone reading the book. The ideas aren't ridiculous or hare-brained, each tip is realistic and do-able and fantastic. With less than 3 months to go Bridal Bargains has helped my keep my wedding to within my budget. ... Read more

Isbn: 1889392138
Sales Rank: 11095
Subjects:  1. Family & Relationships    2. Family/Marriage    3. Handbooks, manuals, etc    4. Marriage    5. Marriage customs and rites    6. Planning    7. Reference    8. United States    9. Weddings   

Bridal Guide Magazine's How to Plan the Perfect Wedding Without Going Broke
by Diane Forden
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 January, 2003)
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Reviews (1)

Excellent, useful book kept me organized!
This is a great book that kept me organized through the whole stressful process of planning my wedding - which went off without a hitch (except, of course, I DID get hitched!). What's good about the book is that it covers every detail and has lots of spaces to keep track of your planning progress. I found the coutdown calendars and budget charts to be helpful too. I bought other wedding planners, but this is the one I ended up using. ... Read more

Isbn: 0446678201
Sales Rank: 289144
Subjects:  1. Handbooks, manuals, etc    2. Love / Sex / Marriage    3. Marriage    4. Marriage customs and rites    5. Planning    6. Reference    7. United States    8. Weddings    9. Reference / Weddings   

Modern Bride(r) Complete Wedding Planner: The #1 Bridal Magazine Helps You Create the Wedding of Your Dreams
by Cele GoldsmithLalli Stephanie H.Dahl
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (09 December, 1996)
list price: $15.95 -- our price: $15.95
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Reviews (4)

I got this as a gift, and I really liked it!
I disagree with the other reviewers, I think this book was very helpful and useful, even for rthe not so rich.For example, one of my favorite parts was illustrations of different wedding gown types such as diffentnecklines and waist styles.It t even recommend the most flattering dressstyle for different figures.It gives information about popular weddingflowers and their season of availability. It gives suggestions forwording on invitations no matter who is hosting.It has a checklist ofneccessary bridal regisrty items. Another one of my favorite parts is thatit gives thank you gift ideas for your attendants, and the parents of thebride and groom.I thought this made a terrific gift and has proved to bevery, very helpful.

We aren't all self made millionaires with money to burn.....
Let us please have a book/magazine that is targeted to the bride/bridegroom on a limited budget.Just because we don't have orchids, Dom Perignon and caviar on some veranda in the south of France, doesn'tmean we can't have a beautiful, elegant wedding.Etiquette??? Bah humbug. It's the 90's. Who cares?? Etiquette went out the window with finger bowlsin the 1890's.You don't need a magazine to tell you how to behaveyourself in polite company.

Why not target the second time aroundBride? 50% of marriages end in divorce!This isn't my lst wedding, either. Let's get REAL.

Thank you.

Barbara Stevenson/Chicago

Boring and unreasonable
This book is for people who do not have a wedding budget and who can afford a $100,000.00 wedding.This book is so dry and boring talking about etiquete it puts you to sleep.It makes planning a wedding seem likeplanning a funeral.No fun at all. ... Read more

Isbn: 0471141119
Sales Rank: 406493
Subjects:  1. Family/Marriage    2. Love / Sex / Marriage    3. Planning    4. Reference    5. Wedding etiquette    6. Weddings    7. Etiquette & entertaining    8. Reference / Weddings   

The Knot Guide to Wedding Vows and Traditions : Readings, Rituals, Music, Dances, and Toasts
by CARLEY RONEY THE KNOT
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (26 December, 2000)
list price: $16.00 -- our price: $10.88
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Editorial Review

When planning for the big day, it's very easy to get caught up in beaded white dresses, boutonnieres, and how many platters of mini crab cakes to order, but the most important part of the wedding is the most-often overlooked--the ceremony itself. A wedding ceremony can vary hugely depending on the religious (or not) beliefs of the couple, their cultural backgrounds, and their personal preferences. The Knot Guide to Wedding Vows and Traditions can help you sort through all the choices and come up with just the right vows and music for you and your intended.

Do you want the traditional "I, so and so, take thee, so and so, to be my lawfully wedding husband/wife before God" or do you want a looser style: "I love you. And I look forward to being your friend and companion, your wife/husband and lover for life"? Carley Roney, author and editor-in-chief of The Knot (www.theknot.com), strongly suggests taking a stab at writing your own vows, but if that's just too much, cull what you like from the many different styles--from Buddhist to Quaker--offered. Readings can be from the Bible or other spiritual writings, from poetry or even song lyrics. A diverse selection of writings and excerpts are included as are a lengthy lists of songs and music for before the ceremony, the processional, the recessional, and the first dance (everything from Bach's "Brandenberg Concerto No. 4" to Martina McBride's "I Love You").

Also included here are chapters on the wedding program, ring exchanges, and speeches and toasts. Interspersed are stories and pictures of real couples and how they arranged their wedding day. Meant as a jolt to your imagination, The Knot Guide to Wedding Vows and Traditions helps you to put a very personal touch on an age-old ceremony. --Dana Van Nest ... Read more

Reviews (12)

OK ifyou can't be bothered to search
Although much of the information contained in this book is available through other sources--www.onewedding.co.uk, for example--it is likely to be useful for someone in the beginning stages of planning their wedding and reception.

not just for the bride and groom
I am the romantic type and have been dreaming about my wedding since forever, but I bought this book, because there are so many great verses/poems/quotations about love.I like to include them in love letters to my boyfriend.Also has a great section on toasts if you are looking for just the right thing to say at an up and coming wedding.

A good resource if you don't know where to start.
Although much of the information contained in this book is available through other sources--The Knot's own web site, for example--it is likely to be useful for someone in the beginning stages of planning their wedding and reception.In particular, there are plenty of examples of vows from various religious backgrounds as well as nice descriptions of various ethnic traditions (eg, the Afrocentric "Jumping the Broom").There are a lot of ideas for those who wish to take a more non-traditional approach as well, as the book makes suggestions for incorporating songs, poetry, and the like into your celebration.The music section breaks the songs down into categories (eg, "first dance," "parents dances") and then further subdivides the categories based on type of music; the section on speeches and toasts is similarly divided based on who is doing the toast.One note of caution:there is less content in the book than its large size would suggest, as a significant number of pages are taken up by examples (eg, page after page of song titles) as well as a resource and bibliography list, both of which I viewed as unnecessary.However, if what you are looking for is plenty of examples so that you can make preliminary decisions about your wedding day, this book would work well. ... Read more

Isbn: 0767902483
Subjects:  1. Marriage customs and rites    2. Reference    3. Wedding etiquette    4. Weddings    5. Reference / Weddings   

The Knot's Complete Guide to Weddings
by CARLEY RONEY
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (29 December, 1998)
list price: $19.95 -- our price: $13.57
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Editorial Review

Promoting the idea that "there's only one thing that really matters: that you have the wedding you want, not a nervous breakdown," Carley Roney and the editors of The Knot Web site have compiled all the information any modern bride and groom may need to plan and execute their dream wedding. Equal parts wedding consultant, marriage counselor, best friend, and cyberresource, this is not the guide your grandmother--or mother, for that matter--used to plan her wedding. Much of The Complete Guide to Weddings in the Real World is culled from the experiences and questions that users of their successful Web site, www.theknot.com, have written in about. This interactivity gives the guide credibility for the engaged couple of the '90s. Readers will find the Web site a useful accessory to the book.

In a humorous, hip, and engaging style, Roney runs down the basics of betrothal starting with the engagement and ending with the honeymoon and postwedding "reentry." In between, we get specific instructions on details like budgeting essentials, selecting locations, arranging the ceremony and reception, hiring photographers and musicians, and registering for gifts. Roney also presents a "Sticky Subjects" section that covers the more sober side of weddings: what to do when your families' religious or political beliefs collide, how to keep the physical side of a relationship alive during the turmoil of wedding planning, the potentially explosive issues of money and wedding budgeting, what to do when your friends or family disapprove of your intended, and even "Top Ten Family 911s."

Snapshots of actual weddings and their budget breakdowns, comprehensive checklists and worksheets, and extensive information on wedding resources with phone numbers, addresses, and Internet addresses (when available) will both help you untangle the knots that can come with getting hitched and make your day one that brings tears of happiness, not dismay. --Stefanie Durbin ... Read more

Reviews (35)

Useful book to have for those planning their weddings!
"The Knot: Complete Guide to Weddings in the Real World," written by Carley Rodney, the founder and editor-in-chief of www.theknot.com provides tons of information on weddings. There is information from the announcement of the engagement to the big day, from reception to the selection of honeymoon destinations. Other useful information includes the roles of the wedding party, wedding gown selection, vows and ceremony details, budget planning as well as dealing with the stress of planning for a wedding. There are inserts of real life stories that I find quite fascinating.

I think this is definitely a useful book to have for those who are planning for their weddings. It's extremely comprehensive as the author does an excellent job in covering the various aspects of wedding. There are always issues or things that were not thought of before but will be brought to attention in this book. "The Knot" is definitely a lot more "down-to-earth" compared to some of the other wedding planning books out there which are useful only if you are planning for a extravagant wedding. In addition, this book also comes with a wedding checklist as well as worksheets which would help couples with their planning. This is definitely a must have for couples!

GREAT Book!!
I would recommend this book for any new Bride who wants great advice on weddings.I have read several books and this one has nice quality information - in great detail.If you want to READ a book, not just look at pictures, this is the book for you.It's the best!!

Great!
This book is a must for all brides to be or even to wedding planners. It offers not only a practical checklist, but also experiences of other couples that walked the aisle before us. With great advices on how to make your wedding what you want: a beautiful and personal ceremony...I recommend it without hesitation. ... Read more

Isbn: 0767902467
Subjects:  1. Love / Sex / Marriage    2. Planning    3. Reference    4. Wedding etiquette    5. Weddings    6. Reference / Weddings   

Buff Brides: The Complete Guide to Getting in Shape and Looking Great for Your Wedding Day
by Sue Fleming
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 January, 2002)
list price: $15.95 -- our price: $10.85
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Editorial Review

Whether you want toned arms for your sleeveless gown or flat abs for your honeymoon bikini, certified trainer Sue Fleming can help you get in better shape for your wedding, even if you have only six months. This slim (106-page) book presents a six-month strength-training daily workout guide with cardio recommendations and a "crash program" if there’s only 12 weeks before the wedding. The strength-training exercises are basic, beginning workouts using dumbbells, stability ball, step, and ankle weights, all clearly explained and illustrated.

The cardio recommendations are very general--for instance, 75 minutes per week for weeks five and six, doing one or two activities that raise your heart rate for most of your workout, which should last at least 25 minutes. Sadly, Fleming runs through just a few ways (walking, running, and biking) to get aerobic exercise, but doesn't explore the huge array of cardio options or give much detail on this essential fitness component. Recommended for beginning exercisers who are committed to following a regular program and need specific strength-training exercises. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (16)

I'm not even a bride, and I LOVE this workout!!!
I purchased this book a few years ago when I was working part time in a bookstore.At the time I was in a relationship and thought I might be a bride someday soon, and I wanted a workout that would give me tone (I don't need to lose a lot of weight, just firm and strengthen those muscles that give us trouble once we hit 25...) and help me feel more energized.Well, the relationship broke up and I put the book on the shelf and forgot about it.

Until a few weeks ago, when I was visiting a friend and we watched an episode of the "Buff Brides" show on TV.After watching the trainers instruct the brides-to-be, and seeing the great results, I remembered I had this book at home.Even though I am nowhere near being a bride, getting in better shape is never a bad thing, right?!So as soon as I returned home I dug the book out and started looking at the exercises.I realized I already had almost everything I would need to get started on the program...I had 3 lb and 5 lb weights, and a sturdy coffee table and chair to use in place of the aerobic stepper they show in the book...and after a quick trip to Target for a very inexpensive exercise ball I was all set.(I even got a great workout using the hand pump to inflate the exercise ball!!!)

I've only been doing this workout for 1 week now but I absolutely LOVE it!!I can already feel my arms and legs getting stronger and more toned.I commute to work and have about 30 minutes of walking time from the Metro to my office...so I have started wearing my sneakers and making that walk part of my workout plan too.My HUGE problem area is my tummy, so I expect it will take a little longer to see results there.And I love the fact that I don't have to starve myself, I have always tried to eat sensibly anyway and I can just continue to do that with this workout.And as soon as it gets warm enough out I also plan to start rollerblading (something I saw one of the brides on the show doing) to supplement the workouts.

I am NOT one to exercise, the thought of going to a gym is so foreign to me...and like everyone I have little free time.These workouts take around 30 minutes a day, 3 or 4 times a week, and require very little space.I love them so much I don't want to skip the day in between...so on those days I do extra exercises for my tummy, which the book specifically says is a muscle group that can be exercised every day.I especially love that the book advises you to rest your muscles, and not exercise yourself to the point of pain.After the first day I did feel some soreness in a few muscles I hadn't used in a long time (mainly triceps) but that quickly went away.

I could go on forever so I will end here by saying if you are a bride-to-be, or just someone who wants to get into better shape and hopefully shed a few pounds too, BUY THIS BOOK!!!!I agree that the book should be spiral bound though, it is a little difficult to get it to sit flat while doing the exercises.

A Program That Actually Works!!!!
This book is great!I hate working out and am the type of person who avoids it at all costs.This book gave me no excuses.The program does not require a lot of space, nor does it require a large investment in time or pricey equipment to do these exercises.I could do the workout at my convenience in the privacy of my own home. Now who can find excuses with flexibility like that?The exercises were explained well and the book was very easy to follow.The workout switches up from week to week so it doesn't get boring.I LOVED the results I achieved, and the fact it didn't take forever to start noticing the improvement (another key element to keeping me motivated).

I received so many compliments from friends who said things like "I wish I had the arms to be able to wear a dress like that" and "You are so lucky to have a nice back so you can wear that style".Believe me, I looked like an over-stuffed sausage in that dress when I first tried it on.We all know how slimming white is anyway. It was my dream dress though, and thanks to this book I was able to look the way I should have looked in it.I can't say enough good things about the Buff Brides workout. My husband is quite happy with the results too. ;)

Buff Brides is THE BEST
The results this book gives are unbelievable. It's very simple, not time consuming, and really keeps you on track. I would recommend it to anyone, bride or not! I lost 8 pounds unintentionally from doing the Buff Brides workout--it's that good. If you want a pre-wedding workout guide, this book is absolutely the answer. ... Read more

Isbn: 0375758550
Subjects:  1. Brides    2. Diet / Health / Fitness    3. Exercise    4. Health & Fitness    5. Health and hygiene    6. Health/Fitness    7. Healthy Living    8. Physical fitness    9. Physical fitness for women    10. Weddings    11. Women    12. Health & Fitness / Exercise   

Getting to 'I Do'
by Pat Allen Sandra Harmon
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 February, 1995)
list price: $12.50 -- our price: $10.00
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Reviews (39)

If I'd only known then....
I first read this book after ending a 4 year relationship.I remember standing in the bookstore looking (skeptically) at all of the relationship books, when the title of this one caught my eye.I said to myself, "yeah, right".When I picked it off the shelf, I noticed a quote from Marianne Williamson, who at the time was the Spiritual Leader of the church I was attending.Having much respect for her, I read the first few pages.Immediately, I was hooked.I after reading the book, I purchased two more copies for single friends. (I'm actually online this morning to purchase more copies) As I explained to them, the title really doesn't do the book justice.For me, it was more than getting married, it was about understanding myself and my energy and the role I played in relationships.

I don't buy it
THis book was lent to me by a woman I was dating, interestigly enough until just recently, although I suspect we will remain friends.
I read this book in the hopes that it would bring insight on how to meet the woman of my dreams or love of my life. That special someone... I think you know what I am talking about.I have never written a review about a book before and have never felt as compelled to share how much I did not like this book.Much of how I felt goes along the lines of what other reviewers wrote (The single Stars that is).
I truly believe that relationships are about negotiation and a mesh of differing styles and approaches to your partner,life and its problems. I also know about the subtle use of manipulation to get what you want(I was an adolescent Drug Treatment counselor for 7 years)--- This book had me feeling very angry and feeling like I don't want to be involved with someone who ascribes to some of the main suggestions in this book.
As a man interested in doing "the right thing" finding that special person-- I would absolutely not recommend this book.The book says things that seem practicle and are commonly accepted types of things but then follows up with a twisted and convoluted approach to relationships.
So in closing Guys-- Stay away.. There is another review that suggest some books and I am going to check them out.
To women: I wish you the best in finding that man of your dreams, but there has got to be some better choices for advice on relationships.

This book is a must read for anyone wanting a long term rela
Getting to I Do is a must read for anyone who wants to find, keep, and/or improve a long term relationship/marraige.Dr. Pat's principles work equally well for straight relationships, gay relationships, lesbian relationships, and/or transgendered relationships.Pat's basic premis is that for along-term relationship to work, one parter must be the masculine/yang/ thinking energy in the relationship, while the other partner is the feminine/yin/feeling partner in the relationship.

I have noticed that a few customers have disagreed with Dr. Pat's principles,most of the disagreements expressed seem to be due to the fact that these readers may not have read the book thoroughly and carefully.In the following paragraphs, I will list the complaints that the readers have expressed, and then I will explain why these readers have misunderstood what Dr. Pat is trying to say.

The first complaint that readers express is that they believe that Dr. Pat is saying that a feminine energy person must only participate in "femine type tasks".Dr. Pat does not say this at all.In fact, Dr. Pat says that there is no such thing as a task that is clearly masculine or clearly feminine.In other words, Dr. Pat says that the feminine partner in the relationship can fix cars, play football, etc.and the masculine partner in the relationship can sew, do dishes, etc.

The second complaint that readers have is that Dr. Pat refers to androgynous people as narcisits.If these readers would truly analyze what Dr. Pat is saying, they would realize that her description of a narcisist is a person who wants both their feelings and thoughts respected by their partner.She does not mean narcisist in the sense of describing a person who is self-obsessed and does not care about people.Readers should realize that words often have more than one meaning.For example, the word "right"can mean a direction or point of reference such as being right-handed or making a right turn, and in a different context it can describe being accurate or correct, such as doing the right thing or picking the right answer.Keeping this in mind, readers should realize that Dr. Pat's definition of narcisist is different from the definition that we commonly use.

The third misconception that readers have about Dr. Pat is that they think that she is saying that the masculine partner in the relationship must be masculine in every aspect of his or her life, and the feminine partner in the relationship must be feminine in every aspect of his or her life.Dr. Pat does not say this at all. She simply says that a person should maintain their primarilly masculin or primarilly feminine role when interacting with his or her spouse.The feminine partner in the relationship can be masculine at work, on the athletic field, when interacting with his or her friends, etc. etc--just not with his or her spouse.And the masculine partner in the relationship can be feminine when interacting with his or her friends, family, etc--just not with his or her spouse.Dr. Pat clearly states that each of us has both masculine and feminine energy, and that we can incorporate both those energies into any or all of our activities and interactions outside of our relationships.

Another complaint that some readers express is that they think Dr. Pat is saying that the masculine energy partener in the relationship can never express his or her feelings in the relationship and the feminine energy person can never express his or her thoughts in the relationship.If these readers would read the book more carefully, they would see that Dr Pat clearly states that while the masculine energy partner should primarilly be the thinker and the feminine partner should primarilly be the feeler, the partners can switch roles when necessary as long as they ask each other for permission before they do so.For example, if the masculine partner wants to express his or her feelings, he or she should say the following to his or her partner:"I have a feeling I would like to express, would you like to hear it now, or would you rather hear it sometime before bed."Likewise, if the feminine partner in the relationship wants to express a thought or idea, he or she would say"I have a thought/idea that I would like to share with you, would you like to here it now or hear it sometime before bed?".

The fith complaint that many readers have is that they think that Dr. Pat believes that the woman should be feminine and the man should be masculine.Dr. Pat does not say this at all.All she says is that one of the partners should be masculine and the other partner should be feminine--therefore, she says that a successful relationship could consist of a masculine man and a feminine woman, a masculine woman and a feminine man, a masculine man and a feminine man, or a masculine woman and a feminine woman.

The sixth complaint that readers have is that they think that a person should not have to choose to play a role in order to be in a relationship.Well, the bottom line is that anything worth while in life recquires some sort of sacrifice and hard work.If one wants to drive a car, he or she needs to pay insurance and take a driving test.If one wants to be a good piano player, her or she needs to practice playing scales and reading music.If one wants a college degree, he or she needs to spend a lot of hours studying.If one wants to lose weight, he ors he needs to eat healthey and exercise.Therefore, one needs to realize that if he or she wants a long term relationship/marraige that is happy and healthy for both partners, then he or she has to be willing to do hard work and makes some sacrifices/compromises--otherwise the person should either remain single, be in a co-dependent/dysfunctional relationship, or just have short term/casual relationships.

In closing, I suggest that if you have not read Getting to I Do, you should read it.And if you have read it and don't like it, you should read it again--this time read it more slowly and more carefully. ... Read more

Isbn: 0380718154
Sales Rank: 15588
Subjects:  1. Interpersonal Relations    2. Love & Romance    3. Love / Sex / Marriage    4. Man-woman relationships    5. Marriage    6. Self-Help    7. Sex role    8. Weddings    9. Reference / Weddings   

Bridal Hair (Hairdressing Training Board/Thomson)
by Pat Dixon Jacki Wadeson
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (11 May, 1998)
list price: $46.95 -- our price: $40.58
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Reviews (3)

Not what I expected for the price!
I am a hairdresser that specializes in weddings and I was very disappointed in this book. When I purchased it there were no reviews, unfortunately.It was beautifully put together but the hairstyles were really unflattering and unattractive.There were hardly any I would even show to a bride as a potential, they were too out of date.The instructions were not detailed enough for a beginning hairstylist (I'm assuming that was the target reader group). I would recommend Martin Parson's "Hairdreams" instead of this.Although you can tell the authors worked hard to make this a lovely book, they took some serious wrong turns in the hairstyle picks and instructions.I wouldn't be so harsh if this book wasn't so expensive!

Beautful Cover Deceives You...
I expected the whole book to be about hair and have a wealth of hair styles. I really didn't need all the advice the first part of the book gives. I also expected the book to have more updated styles. This book would definately look pretty on your salon reception table and would appeal to a novice. But someone who is doing bridal hair now might not find this book helpful. If the cost was less, the book might be worth keeping.

Handy for some, not for others
I bought this book not knowing exactly what was in it.I have short hair that I'm growing out, but of the 38 hairstyles featured, only 3 were appropriate for my length.On the other hand, if you're looking for ideas for hairstyles beyond the typical chignon, half-ony-tail, etc., this is a great book.It's even good for do-it-yourselfers who are looking for something creative to do, but not looking to go to a salon to get it.Well worth the money if you're looking for any of the above and you have shoulder length or longer hair. ... Read more

Isbn: 1861528930
Sales Rank: 397405
Subjects:  1. Business/Economics    2. General    3. Reference    4. Business & Economics / Careers   

Jessica Simpson I Do: Achieving Your Dream Wedding
by Jessica Simpson Katina Z. Jones
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (August, 2003)
list price: $29.95 -- our price: $29.95
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Reviews (26)

Jessica's #1 Fan!!!
As a fan of Jessica's singing and her show "The Newlyweds" I wanted some ideas for what my future could be like.I'm currently in therapy to get in touch with my feminine side since leaving home and venturing out on my own.

This classy book is full of beautiful pictures of the wedding. I was able to create a collage of what I hope my wedding will be like.I just hope that I'm as beautiful a bride as Jessica.

This book brought tears to my eyes thinking of the future and all that could be.

I'm going to be sick
My fiance is a Jessica Simpson fan, so of course this ended up in our home.I just can't believe this.What a sell out.She will do anything to make more money.Pizza Hut, IceBreakers, Proactiv, the worst of all in my opinion was both (not just one, but two) of the Variety Show's on ABC.I'm sure most of this is her father's fault, the ex pastor turned greedy dirtbag who sells both of his daughters to make a dollar.

I guess I just don't understand the mentality (and no, it's not jealousy). I just figure if she comes from such a wonderful religious background she would understand there's more to life than $.I really think that because her career/popularity blew up so quickly, it will also come right out from under her.

Nice book, not helpful to the bride.
This book is pretty, however, its basically Jessica's wedding album with a few notes. Good if you're a Simpson fan, not too helpful when planning a wedding, especially planning a wedding on a budget. ... Read more

Isbn: 0972457534
Sales Rank: 78833
Subjects:  1. Case studies    2. Celebrity weddings    3. Love / Sex / Marriage    4. Pictorial works    5. Planning    6. Reference    7. Weddings   

The Best of Martha Stewart Living Weddings (Best of Martha Stewart Living)
by Martha Stewart
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (07 December, 1999)
list price: $50.00 -- our price: $31.50
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Editorial Review

The maven of all things tasteful, Martha Stewart has impeccablestyle when it comes to weddings, and The Best of Martha Stewart Living: Weddings compiles the finest ideas from the magazine ofthe same name. The book is designed to provide inspiration for the big day, whether it is for the ceremony or the reception. Wedding apparel isn't covered, but all of the other significant parts of the wedding are: ceremony and reception decorating, bouquets and boutonnieres, wedding cakes, favors, guest books, music--even storage and display of photographs and other memorabilia after the wedding.

Stewart encourages readers to use the book's ideas as inspiration forwedding elements unique to the bride and groom, and to avoid simply incorporatingthe book's ideas into their wedding day. She emphasizes that a wedding should reflect the couple's personality and wishes, as well as anycustoms they choose to follow. There are few rules of etiquette à la EmilyPost. Instead, the book provides historical explanations of common wedding traditions, then gives examples of variations on that tradition thatcouples have decided to use in their weddings. Stylishly arranged color photographs of the bouquets, wedding cakes, reception decorations,table settings, party favors, and more bring the ideas to life; instructionsfor reproducing them are often provided.

Many of Martha's suggestions are doable even on a budget because theystick to simple, classic design. The reference section at the end ofthe book includes ceremony and reception planning and seating tips; music suggestions; recipes for cakes, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres;and sources for wedding supplies. The Best of Martha Stewart Living:Weddings should prove a rich source of inspiration for coupleslooking to add stylish and meaningful touches to their wedding day. --Kris Law ... Read more

Reviews (42)

Ideas for planning a wedding
Martha Stewart's "The Best of Martha Stewart Living Weddings" provides information such as decorations, cakes, flowers, as well as reception ideas that are useful for couples who are planning for their weddings. Stewart also provides information for those who are interested to make things (cakes, favors, etc) rather than just buying them from the stores. The book is filled with colorful pictures that help to illustrate her ideas.

Before reading this book, I thought that it would be too fancy and way too expensive for middle-class folks (like some of the wedding books out there). However, I am pleasantly surprised that some of her ideas are quite practical and doable and they were not as expensive as I thought. A useful book to have. I would also recommend Carley Roney's "The Knot: Complete Guide to Wedding in the Real World" which I think provides even more detailed information.

A Must have
A "Must Have" for those who works in the wedding industry or getting married. Featured some creative decoration ideas, wedding bouquets & boutonnierestyle, cake decoration,Type of flowers, color coordination, music lists, etc. Great book for references.

A beautiful and practical must-have reference!
This is a high-quality volume, and includes page after page of beautiful full color photographs that are very enjoyable to look through as well as very helpful in inspiring ideas for one's own wedding. It is also an incredible reference, loaded with valuable information about all aspects of weddings (ceremony, reception, attire, flowers, and much more). I don't know what I'd do without this handy and lovely guide, and I look forward to a very unique and elegant wedding with significant thanks to this book for it. The one single best resource out there for brides-to-be. ... Read more

Isbn: 0609604260
Subjects:  1. Hobbies/Crafts    2. Love / Sex / Marriage    3. Planning    4. Reference    5. Weddings    6. Reference / Weddings   

The Ultimate Bridal Shower Idea Book : How to Have a Fun, Fabulous, and Memorable Party
by SHARON NAYLOR
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (22 April, 2003)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
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Reviews (1)

So fun! Excellent co-ed shower ideas!
The bridesmaids and I LOVE this book by Sharon Naylor -- we looked everywhere for some really great, non-cheesy co-ed bridal shower ideas and didn't find anything good. And then we found this book. Now we had so many good ideas, we had to choose between them. Finally, some original themes! And great favor ideas, decorating tips, budgeting advice. What worked best for us was the advice about how to divide up planning tasks when some bridesmaids don't have a lot of money. We couldn't have put this party together without this book, and we recommend it highly. ... Read more

Isbn: 0761563695
Sales Rank: 30131
Subjects:  1. Entertaining    2. Entertaining - Party Planning    3. Reference    4. Showers (Parties)    5. Weddings    6. Reference / Weddings   

The Bridesmaid's Survival Guide: A Hilarious Handbook to Womanhood's Most Dubious Distinction
by Mary Kay McDermott
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 June, 2000)
list price: $15.95 -- our price: $10.85
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Reviews (8)

Not for the married bridesmaids
I bought 7 copies of this book to give to my friends when I ask them to be bridesmaids. When they arrived, I found that the whole beginning of it is about being the single bridesmaid left behind when a friend gets married. Since I'm the last of my friends to be married and all my bridesmaids are already hitched, this book just didn't apply. The books are being returned and I'm on the hunt for another "asking idea." So, if your bridesmaids are already married, this doesn't make a good gift. Cute, though, if you're younger and one of the first to be married.

funny-funny-funny, and true!
How True!!! This honest and fun loving account of bridesmaiding made my fifth journey down the aisle (as a bridesmaid-not a bride!) more fun. Very validating. (the bartender at The Cowgirl Hall of Fame in NYC actually gave it to our bachelorette party!) I recommend it.

Hilarious!
HILARIOUS inside look at a role every female must play at least once in their life; very tongue-in-cheek; nice gift for the bridesmaids ... Read more

Isbn: 0140294600
Sales Rank: 74544
Subjects:  1. Bridemaids    2. General    3. Humor    4. Weddings    5. Wedding   

The Little Flower Girl (Pictureback)
by LINDA TRACE BRANDON
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (11 March, 1997)
list price: $3.25 -- our price: $3.25
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Reviews (7)

Very christian oriented and doesn't pass on right values
First of all, this book is oriented around a church wedding. This is a problem for me because I'm having a Jewish wedding. Although a flower girl is not a traditional part of the Jewish ceremony, many couples are doing it these days because the little kids are so cute and this way the kids don't get bored.

Second, the flower girl gets to put on makeup and she gets several other things like a new dress. The problem with giving this to your kid is that she'll expect the same stuff.

Third, the flower girl's little brother doesn't want to be ring bearer so he hides from his parents so he doesn't have to put on his outfit or something. This is not an idea you want to put into the heads of your children.

Now that I bought this book, I have to give it away but I won't even feel comfortable giving it to a christian friend because it so uber traditional.

Great Way To Get the Flower Girls Ready for The Big Day!
I actually gave this to my flower girls ahead of our wedding because they're very young and I wanted their moms to start preparing them with this story so they can know what to expect and be comfortable. It's a lovely book for the girls and their moms seem to really love it, too. Plus, it's so inexpensive! Definitely the best book I've seen as far as having a story kids can relate to and absolutely the lowest price.

Charmed reader
What an engaging story! My children (both boy and girl), loved this book, especially the accidentally funny antics of the uninterested little brother. A great book to read over and over to little ones. Highly recommended! ... Read more

Isbn: 0679876952
Sales Rank: 12552
Subjects:  1. Children's 4-8    2. Children: Kindergarten    3. Family - Marriage & Divorce    4. Fiction    5. Holidays & Festivals - Other - Non-religious    6. Weddings    7. Juvenile Fiction / Family / Marriage & Divorce   

The Clueless Groom's Guide : More Than Any Man Should Ever Know About Getting Married
by Peter van Dijk
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (25 April, 2003)
list price: $12.95 -- our price: $10.36
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Reviews (14)

Gets it right
I really got a huge kick out of this book. It has some really useful information. It's funny. But it's also real good spririted. A definite must read for any engaged guy.

Excellent Stuff
My mother-in-law gave me this book as a gift shortly after I popped the question.It was full of really great stuff, and it was fun to read.I would wholeheartedly recommend it."Mom" was also super-cool enough to give me a couple of other excellent gifts -- believe it or not -- that I would also VERY STRONGLY recommend:the book "Men Are From Mars, Women are from Venus" , the DVD "New Sex Now", and "Goddess Worship" on video.All in all thesefour little gifts made a HUGE impact on some very amazing weeks of my life.

Very informative and entertaining!
I went to a bookstore with my fiancée and lounged around in the wedding books section. Most of the books that were there were written for/from the female perspective, and therefore did not motivate me to purchase or read the book.The other books for men were more about etiquette and what to expect.Then I ran across this one.I figured... oh no, it's another idiots guide or for dummies books... but then I realized that it wasn't.So I picked it up and read parts of it.Right off, I could tell that from the sense of humor of the author, that at the very least if it didn't offer me new information, since I have never been married before, it would at least keep me entertained.

So I purchased it.And I started reading it instead of a newspaper during some private time.It offered some helpful advice.It told me what to expect.And it made me laugh.What else could I ask for.I highly recommend getting this book because it does help me feel more informed about what to expect, and I don't have to carry around some frilly Martha Stewart-like book.The publisher and author understand that there is a niche for wedding books for men... that guide, offer advice, and entertain at the same time.If you are one of those football loving, bud light beer commercial watching, 20 something, 30 something, and even 40 something men, who has never been married before, then this is the book for you. ... Read more

Isbn: 0071413723
Sales Rank: 146099
Subjects:  1. Bridegrooms    2. Etiquette    3. Humor    4. Marriage    5. Men's Studies - General    6. Planning    7. Reference    8. Sociology - Marriage & Family    9. Topic - Relationships    10. Wedding etiquette    11. Weddings    12. Humor / General   

Modern Bride
Average Customer Review:
Magazine
list price: $35.94 -- our price: $11.97
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

If you want a sophisticated wedding, but you don't necessarily have the Martha Stewart instincts to sew your own ring-bearer pillows, Modern Bride will help you plan an elegant day nonetheless. The many style tips for the bride (from gowns to lingerie to makeup and hair), ideas on flowers and favors, accounts of real weddings, registry information, and honeymoon suggestions are bound to stir your imagination. Also included is postceremony advice on topics such as finance and sex. This is not the magazine to help you with the nitty-gritty--there are no monthly planning calendars or details on how to find the perfect reception hall or photographer--but it will give you great ideas for making your wedding day your dream day. As with any bridal magazine, much of what is useful is the abundance of ads, especially if you're still scouting for the perfect gown. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Features

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Reviews (9)

Helpful Magazine, Horrendous punctuality
I subscribed to Modern Bride as a gift to my fiance.Aside from not receiving our first issue until 3 months after the subscription, I only received about 3 issues total.Months went by without anything being delivered.While customer service at Modern Bride was very accomodating and helpful, nothing happens immediately.When planning a wedding, each and every month is precious.Especially during the initial stages of wedding planning.To have finally gotten this subscription problem under control was exhausting.Plus, by this time most of the wedding details were finalized, the magazines I received became useless.If you're under 12 months to your wedding date, you should strongly consider if now is a good time to begin a subscription with Modern Bride.

A must for the bride-to-be and fun for everyone else
Bride's magazine is probably the best, but Modern Bride runs a close second and is more in line with the average bride of today who isn't going to have anything close to one of those "average cost of $25 grand" weddings. Of course the gowns are showcased, but MB gives priceless information on honeymoon planning, registering, wedding etiquette, even buying and setting up your first home. The subscriber gets more than their money's worth. Highly recommend!

It's great to indulge yourself in all the details
This magazine is so beautiful, and helps so much to live in that fantacy fiance stage.I love looking at the dresses and cakes, and reading about the individual love stories.
I decided that one must fully indulge in the time period before they get married because it is such a short period of our lives.I as a result have done a lot of things to get me involved with the process.
I have been working-out regulary with girlfriends to look amazing for the big day, I started a calligraphy course so that I could do the invitations- it's really fun.

I bought singing lessons on CD "Voice Lessons To Go" by Vaccarino- (they're so good!) because I want to sing our special song to my fiance at the reception as a surprise for him.

I even bought the "New Sex Now" DVD which I am saving for the hotel on our honeymoon (It came highly recommended by my girlfriend-!)

It should all be about the process of celebration. God knows we have such hard times in our lives that we have to endure.This magazine just helps me ejoy life a bit more! ... Read more

Asin: B00005NIOE
Subjects:  1. Bridal (Weddings)