Don t overlook the importance of your wedding music

There are two aspects of wedding music that need to be addressed when planning your big day. First, you may wish to select certain music or arrange for professional soloists or musicians to play during the actual wedding ceremony. But at the wedding reception, it's pretty much anything goes when it comes to selecting wedding music, provided it's tasteful.

Right away is the time to plan your wedding music. Good talent gets booked fast and you don't want to end up having to select the brand new DJ with only a few weddings under his belt or something even worse. Booking your music a full year in advance is advisable but at a minimum, you should know who will be showing up and what he or she will be playing at least six months prior to the wedding date.

For most weddings, selecting the music for the wedding ceremony isn't that complicated because most often, it's controlled by the person in charge at the location where the ceremony will take place. When you're researching your wedding ceremony options, be sure to inquire about any guidelines with respect to wedding ceremony music as these could possibly impact your decision. If the ceremony is being held outdoors, check for electrical hook-ups or book live musicians.

Wedding music during the ceremony is basically secondary to the ceremony itself so the music is really meant to sort of 'fill in the gaps' during the non-speaking periods such as while guests are being seated, during the procession, and while lighting the unity candles. Of course, it's your wedding and it can be custom-designed.

The music that's played at the reception, however, is going to mean the difference between a successful reception and one that's ho-hum. And this is where things can start to get complicated. When you begin searching for wedding reception music, you'll realize rather quickly that you have a lot of options. You can book a live band, or a DJ that'll play pre-recorded music, or you can buy that CD full of top wedding songs and have someone act as the DJ.

It's important that you both agree on the type of wedding music you want played at your reception. There are 'traditional' songs that almost always are played at certain points during the reception such as the father/daughter dance, the cake cutting, the dollar dance and so on. And then there is all the music in between. Do you want jazz, country, R&B, new age, Italian, Latin, Jewish-inspired, or a little bit of everything? That's an important decision to make because the musicians you select have to be able to deliver what you want or you won't be happy.

Try to book experienced professionals for your wedding music. Always ask for and check references. Even contact the Better Business Bureau. If booking live talent, arrange to hear a live performance before booking. Scrutinize the contract before signing to make sure all parties agree on the number of hours music will be provided and that everything that has been agreed to is in writing. Find out the cancellation and refund policy, too.

A wedding flower guide

When it comes to choosing wedding flowers, many brides may know the wedding flower they want in their own bouquet, but are a little mystified about the rest of the wedding flowers needed to fill out the ceremony and reception.

While you can leave all your wedding flower selections in the hands of a capable professional florist and get great results, you may want to take a more hands on approach. We hope this wedding flower guide will help making planning your most special day just a little easier.

Your first decision should be whether you plan to use a professional florist to create a wedding flower arrangement and bouquets, or if you'd rather visit a wholesale wedding flower retailer and order flowers to make your own bridal bouquets, boutonnieres and so forth.

If you are the creative type, a simple floral craft book will give you all the tips and tool lists necessary to create your own custom wedding flowers that reflect your personal style. It's a good idea to purchase some flowers to practice with ahead of time to make sure you'll be happy with your results. Whatever you decide, there are some standard traditions and suggestions to help make sure you've covered all your wedding flower needs.

Wedding Flower Guide

Wedding flowers for the church would include:

*Altar wedding flower arrangements

*Pew markers/decorations

Wedding flowers for the reception would include:

*Wedding flower arrangement for the bridal table.

*Table centerpieces

*Buffet table decorations

Wedding flowers for the bridal party would include:

*Bridal bouquet

*Small Bridal bouquet to toss

*Groom's boutonniere

*Maid/Matron of Honor bouquet

*Bridesmaid bouquets

*Best Man boutonniere

*Groomsman boutonnieres

*Flower Girl bouquet or petal basket

*Mother of the Bride/Groom corsages

*Father of the Bride/Groom boutonnieres

*Step-parent corsages/boutonnieres

*Grandparent corsages/boutonnieres

A Few Extra Wedding Flower Tips

* Maid/Matron of Honor wedding bouquets should be slightly more elaborate or in a different color shade than the rest of the bridesmaid wedding bouquets.

* The Best Man boutonniere should be slightly more elaborate than the rest of the groomsmen boutonnieres.

* The corsages/boutonnieres for the parents should differ slightly from the step-parents, and all grandparent corsages/boutonnieres should be

different as well. It makes it easier for guests to keep track of who's who.

* Wedding flower arrangements from the church can be transferred to the reception hall for double duty.

* Bridesmaid wedding bouquets could be set in waiting vases and used as decoration for the bridal table.

Remember, these are just wedding flower guidelines. When it comes to your special day, your wedding flower selections and arrangements should reflect your personal taste and style. You can keep things simple or get as elaborate as you like, as long as your wedding flowers help you create the perfectly romantic wedding day you've always dreamed of.

Carhartt flame resistant jacket

Working in a fire-prone environment? Then it is certain that you will want to protect yourself in the best possible way. You will need a Carhartt flame resistant jacket to provide you the best protection. For people working in glass furnaces, petroleum industries, coalmines, welding industries, or in an environment where there are a lot of hazardous electric circuits, the Carhartt flame resistant jacket ensures the best protection from potential fires.

Carhartt is one of the world's leading brands in flame retardant wear, and most people select this brand when they are conscious about their own safety. The Carhartt flame retardant jackets are made of 88% cotton and 12% of high-resistance nylon, blended in such a way that it keeps away high temperatures. Inside, there is a sheet of fire resistant material that does not allow the hot flames to come in contact with the skin. The best part of the jacket is that, though it is made to be fireproof to a great degree, its materials do not weigh much. The whole jacket weighs just about 13 ounces, due to which the wearer does not feel as though he or she is tugging along a heavy burden on the shoulders.

To add to the utility of the Carhartt flame resistant jacket, it is provided with two patch pockets on the inside, where tools can be carried. The pockets are again made of a fire-resistant material, and they are provided with hooks so that the pockets can be securely closed. The jacket does not have clumsy buttons for fastening itself, but is provided with a fire-retardant brass zipper at the front, which is hidden inside the jacket so that the flaps are not visible from the outside. The zipper has further snap protection so that the zipper does not open up under work pressure.

Additional features in the Carhartt flame resistant jacket include the cuffs and the waistband, both of which are made from Nomex fire resistant material. The waistband and cuffs are given ribbed cuts to provide for elasticity. This makes the jacket fit different sized waists and arms. The collar is made of fire-resistant corduroy material, that enhances the look of the jacket and also protects the neck from accidental fires or sudden flames.

Each part of the Carhartt flame resistant jacket is checked several times for fire retardation. You can opt for a fire resistant hood to go with the jacket, or you can also choose for some of the other designs Carhartt has on offer, such as the Carhartt fire-resistant overalls or the fire-resistant coveralls.

With all the protection around the jacket, they are certainly the primary choice of the discerning worker. Carhartt has also taken great pains to make the jackets look the best in stud fashion by giving them a dusty brown color and giving them a cut that would make any wearer look macho. The jackets complement cargo pants, denim pants or even work trousers. And you will find sizes ranging from S to 5XL. That ensures there is always a Carhartt flame resistant jacket for you.

You can customize your Carhartt flame resistant jacket for you by adding hoods, or even adding an embroidered logo of your place of work. You can place your order for your Carhartt flame resistant jacket with your favorite online retailers.

Save money doing your own wedding flowers

A wedding takes an enormous amount of time and money. From the hall to the dress, the flowers, the cake, invitations, food etc., it is wise to save where you can. You may not want to cut corners with your dress but you can save a lot of money doing your own flowers.

A florist needs to make money and in order for them to this they need to spike up cost tremendously. What you are paying for is not only the flowers but you are paying for the cost of the flowers, vases and containers (which they buy wholesale and mark up 50% to 75%), the salaries of the people making the arrangements, paying for the driver and gas and other incidentals. This is their business and they need to do this in order to be successful.

But if you are somewhat artistic and want to save some money, you can do your own flowers. Here are some basic things you need to do:

1) Look through bridal magazines or online to get an idea of what kind of arrangements you are interested in. Having pictures of what you like can help you decide the colors and styles. Investing in a flower arranging book can be of enormous value to you as it gives you the complete how too and what tools you need and lots and lots of pictures.

2) Without having experience in floral design, simple may be a better choice but that does not mean it’s less effective. Something like a tall vase with white gladiolas in them placed on each table looks incredible and is about the easiest arrangement you can put together. This also works very well as altar pieces. If you want a low arrangement you can do something like a low vase with just roses of your color choice and sprinkle rose petals around it on each table. If roses are too expensive you can do the same with cheaper flowers such as carnations, daisies, Gerber daisies or mums. Whatever you like that fits your budget.

3) Do the table arrangements and altar pieces before tackling the bridal and bridesmaid bouquets. These also typically take the most time to do. There are two ways you can go. You can go to a craft store and buy ready made floral foam with a handle and lace skirt that you will soak with water to insert your flowers into or you put freshly cut stems together and bind them with floral tape and then ribbon.

4) A simple but beautiful bouquet can be made by taking roses that have been cleaned of most of their leaves and thorns. In one hand hold the first few roses and keep adding a rose one at a time until you have the desired amount of roses. Make sure they are not all flat at the top. You want your bouquet to be rounded. You do this by carefully taking the outer roses and pulling them down gently all around until you have the desired effect. The center of your roses will be the highest roses while the rest of the roses will gently slope downward.

5) When you have decided what you want then gather up your bridesmaids or whom ever you think could best help you and well before the wedding, do a test run and make one of each arrangement you would like to do. This will give you an idea of how it is going to look and how long it takes to do each one. Take a close up picture of each arrangement once you are satisfied. Doing a run through also lets you determine the cost. Just multiply by the number of arrangements you need to do. If you are happy about your work and you really want to know what your savings will be, then take your pictures to a flower shop and get them to give an estimate for making the same arrangements. You will know what you paid, now compare that to the florists quote.

Doing your own flowers will take more of your time but if you have a good support system helping you, (which can be a really fun time) you can take pride in your accomplishments and save a lot of money.

So you want to live in spain

A lot of people decide to live in Spain for many different reasons. If you want to live in a comfortable climate, you cannot choose a better location. But for some, the reasons may be more practical, such as work or family obligations. If you decide you want or need to relocate to Spain, you will have to learn about such requirements as work permits and residency permits. If you want to be able to get around easily in Spain, you should also study the Spanish language.

With Spain's economy booming, one of the main reasons people have to relocate to Spain is job related. In this case, you may want to consider a professional relocation company to assist you with all of the details. They can take care of a lot of the paperwork and make your move as easy as possible. A company such as this will have a staff that can speak many different languages. They will take care of all of the details of relocating, from finding a home, to enrolling your children in school, to obtaining your residency permits, to registering your

car. Their in depth knowledge of the Spanish culture and Spanish bureaucracy will save you a lot of anguish.

If you are going to work in Spain, you have to obtain a work permit. There a different types of permits, depending upon the type of work you are going to be doing, and how long you will be working in Spain. A Type "A" permit allows for seasonal work in Spain, and is only valid for only nine months. Many times this type of permit will be limited to certain areas of the country. A Type "B" permit is considered an initial work permit and are usually for a specific region and only for certain types of positions. These permits are valid for a year and can be

renewed, but only for a maximum of two years. A Type "C" permit is not limited to type of job, or to location. A Type "C" permit is valid for up to three years. Self employed individuals can obtain a Type "D" permit, which allows them to work in Spain for up to a year, but can be renewed for up to two year. These are also limited to certain geographic areas, and the type of work to be done may also be limited. Each application is reviewed to determine this.

Type "E" permits are valid for up to three years, and have no geographical limitation. If someone is given a permanent work permit, they will have no limitations on the type of work activity or the geographic location. These are usually granted after a Type "C" or Type "E" permit has expired.

Regardless of the type of work permit you have, in order Ty live in Spain, even for as little as three months, you will need to obtain a foreigner's identification card.

Six amazing accessories for your cinderella or princess wedding

Some elements of the Cinderella wedding are downright obvious -- the extra-full ball gown, the elbow-length gloves. And let's not forget the pumpkin carriage that's sure to show up somewhere, whether it be the place cards, the centerpieces, or a giant prop piece near the entrance.

But with Princess weddings -- as with any other kind -- it's the details that make the difference, and getting those right often brings the bride the most satisfaction. Here are some suggestions for feeling that Cinderella magic right down to your glass-slippered toes.

The Headband

No one will fault you for wearing a crystal-studded royal tiara and necklace set. But Cinderella herself wore something a little different. The Disney movie was created in the 50s, when headbands were all the rage, and Ella herself seemed especially partial to them. Even on her wedding day, she wore a sparkling headband right on the top of her crown, in the simple 50s style. A waltz or ballet length veil sat low on the back of her head, almost at the nape of her neck. Without much difficulty, you can still find a rhinestone-studded wedding headband today.

The Neckwear

Cinderella's choice of neckwear was a little more timeless. Often, you'll see her don a simple one-stranded pearl choker. But it seems that her favorite adornment was the satin ribbon choker, which she wore in racy, Nicole Kidman-style black. You might not want to be as daring as Cinderella at your wedding, but the satin choker is fabulous, especially if you can purloin an antique ribbon from a beloved grandmother. Now you're the walking embodiment of elegance, and you have "something old" covered.

The Glass Slippers

It's common knowledge that you can get dramatic "glass slippers" (actually vinyl) for your royal stroll down the aisle. But glass slippers come in more casual, comfortable forms as well. Look for the open-toed variety, which give off all that fairytale spark, but leave your tootsies cool when it's time to dance the night away. Sure, Prince Charming might find these less useful as a bridal homing device, but he's already found his princess.

The Bluebirds of Happiness

Bluebirds played a major role in Cinderella's rise to the top, yet they usually get short shrift at a princess-theme wedding. Don't forget these perennial symbols of nuptial good luck at yours. A lovely way to include them is to track down a small bluebird keepsake charm or clip you can affix to your garter, toasting flutes or bouquet. Hallmark has one that simply glows. There you have it -- "something blue."

The Dove Release

You could argue that this isn't an accessory, but it's our article, so we're calling it one. Doves aren't the key characters in Disney's version that they were in the original Grimm story -- and thank goodness for that -- but they still define the moment when the prince and princess unite in marriage. For any Cinderella wedding, they're a must.

But some "dove" handlers (the doves are actually white homing pigeons) have something more to offer the princess bride, such as ornate pumpkin coach carriages that double as cages. These can be placed near the altar for some romantic cooing action, then rolled down the aisle for a dramatic release once you've become husband and wife. For the biggest fireworks-like sensation, release the first two doves yourselves, but let pro handlers manage the rest.

The Guestbook Picture Frame

If you're true Cinderella aficionado, those full-color Walt Disney prints of the royal couple probably get your heart beating a little faster. Buy one framed with a large white matte. Or if you really want the signature frame but don't want the $150 price tag, buy the print separately and make a few patient trips to the thrift store. At a large one, you'll typically find a dizzying sample of frames and mattes you can usually get for pocket change. That's quite the return on something you'll love looking at for years.

Loading dock equipment

The loading dock is the sharp end of any company's operations, the place where your business meets the outside world. Investing in the right loading dock equipment on hand for loading and unloading deliveries means that the goods will arrive at their final destination in the best possible condition, and that will translate into savings.

There are numerous components that go into making the distribution operation run smoothly, and all of the different parts of the jigsaw fit together to make the operation more efficient, and safer, reducing the incidence of accidents, increasing the protection offered to both goods and staff, and also make the whole loading and unloading process a lot faster.

One of the most important pieces of loading dock equipment that your business will invest in is the dock seal or shelter. The idea behind a dock seal is to allow for loading and unloading to take place in all weather conditions. The truck will be able to reverse right back up to the wall, and into the shelter, allowing staff to get access to the back without worrying about slipping on wet surfaces.

In situations where the dock is not at the same level as the bed of trucks that need to be loaded and unloaded, there are a number of different solutions available to make the loading process as simple and convenient as possible.

The simplest option available is a dock board. Some companies offer a number of different options to make sure that the loading dock equipment that you buy is right for your business. From the simplest ramp through to heavy weight units that are able to carry the weight of a forklift. The Dock board stretches between the dock and the back of the truck and allows for easy access.

In situations where the height of the truck beds on delivery vehicle varies greatly from the dock and where it is important to get the fastest possible turnaround on deliveries, then a dock leveler is the ideal piece of loading dock equipment. With a high powered lift and the capacity to support particularly heavy weights such as fork lifts, dock levelers will allow for a flexible system to be installed that will allow your distribution center to accommodate a wide range of different vehicles.

When a dock is unavailable, loading need not be inhibited. Under circumstances where you lack the capacity to load a truck through the dock, aluminum and steel yard ramps will allow for easy access to the rear of the vehicle from ground level.

Other pieces of loading dock equipment that are considered essential include trailer stabilizing jacks that can be used to keep trailers steady and level after the tractor has been released, and chocks to stop vehicles from moving and causing problems. For lifting equipment and materials into a truck from ground level, a truck scissor dock lift is the perfect solution, and versions able to carry up to 12,000 pounds are available.

In order to ensure that material loaded into the rear of a truck or container is safe in transit, having a good stock of cargo bars that can be fitted in a variety of different trucks is essential, and ensures that your business is able to avoid costs incurred from goods being damaged in transit.