(ARA) - Summer is right around the corner, and that means one thing - wedding season. Spring is crunch time for millions of couples planning their summer wedding, but what many couples don’t know is that there are easy ways to avoid stress while planning their big day.

Turn your dream into reality

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and is most likely a day you’ve spent hours, days or even years dreaming about. When the time finally comes to start planning the big day, you don’t want to cut corners or settle for a run-of-the-mill, impersonal event. With the help of the American Rental Association (ARA) and your local rental store, you can be sure your wedding day will be one that will be remembered by all.

Rental opens the doors to options you may have never even considered due to time or budget constraints. A romantic outdoor wedding is possible any time of the year with huge tents and elegant canopies, equipped with heating or cooling options. Make a statement by skipping the traditional tiered cake and going with something more unique, like an impressive chocolate fountain with brownie or cheesecake bites or an ice cream cart complete with all the fixings. You can even create dramatic scenery on the walls and ceiling of your venue with a variety of accent lighting options.

Don’t break the bank

While your wedding day may be the most important day of your life, there is no reason why it has to be the most expensive. You can save money on seating, centerpieces and more by renting. Why buy all your wedding supplies when you are only going to use them once? Why bother paying for their storage and upkeep after the big day is over? Simplify your wedding and your budget by letting the rental store take care of the cleanup, maintenance and storage of all your decorations and supplies.

And forget about running all over town, wasting time, energy and money - make one stop at your local rental store and get everything you need. ARA members, which include more than 7,500 rental businesses and 1,100 manufacturers and suppliers, are located in every state, so you can get all the supplies you need in one stop. To make finding the rental store nearest you even easier, ARA offers RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest and most comprehensive rental store locator. Here, people planning their wedding and reception can find the rental store nearest them, read how-to tips and get ideas and inspiration for their event.

Enlist the experts

To make planning your big day even easier, some ARA member rental businesses offer Certified Event Rental Professionals (CERPs). And most offer on-site support, relieving much of the stress associated with planning a wedding. These professionals are ready and willing to share their knowledge and experience with you, from pre-wedding set-up all the way through the day of the event.
Deadlines, budgets, guest lists - these are all aspects of a wedding that need to be managed and sometimes are better left to the professionals. CERPs know what needs to be organized right away, and what can wait until later. They will think of that one detail that never would have crossed your mind and keep your budget in check.

Don’t let planning your wedding cast a cloud over the springtime sunshine. Make it an enjoyable experience with the help of ARA and your local rental store.

Prince charming for a day! For that perfectly polished look just follow these easy formal-dressing rules. Remember, all you grooms & groomsmen out there, to always try your tuxedos on for the final fittings before leaving the formal wear rental shops to avoid potential problems.

All tuxedos are not alike in appearance. Subtle differences in jackets, collars and pants styles can truly make the difference when combined together, and depending on the body type of the man.

Keep in mind that your wedding portrait will be displayed proudly for many years, and for all to see.

A style that’s right for you:

Body Types

Small frame: should look for single-breasted jackets with long lines, a low-button stance (it elongates the body), and wide peak lapels. Selection of the right pant style is important as well. Reverse double-pleated trousers is a great choice for grooms with smaller frames. Keep in mind that the perfect pant leg should always break slightly on top of the shoe and angle a bit downward in back.

Stocky grooms 5’8” and under: An athletic or muscular body type usually looks best in a tuxedo jacket with slim shawl collars. The top button should fall at the small of the waist to provide the torso with a leaner look. This body type should choose jackets with a natural shoulder line and try to avoid the more broad European styles. When it comes to pants, reverse double-pleated trousers with the pleats extending toward the pockets tend to offer the best comfort and style. The pants should extend as low as possible on the foot, angles slightly in the back to elongate the leg. Try to avoid too much of a break on the foot, this causes the pant leg to slope and look sloppy.

Tall, large frame: this body type usually looks best in shawl-collar tuxedos. The jacket length is extremely important, and to get the best fit, the groom should place his arms at his sides and relax his hands and fingers. At this point in the fitting of the jacket, the grooms fingertips should touch the bottom of the jacket. His shirt cuffs should extend at least half an inch beyond the jacket sleeve also. Look to spread collars and fuller bow ties. The pant leg should have a slightly wider silhouette to accommodate a larger thigh also.

Tall, thin grooms: look great in almost any style!

Ask your tuxedo consultant for help in choosing the one that’s right for you.

12-16 Months before the wedding

• Choose a wedding date. Don’t rush. Choose a date based on your favorite ceremony/reception facilities availability.
• Start a wedding file to organize wedding documents, contracts, etc.
• Discuss & Choose the style and formality of your wedding.
• Put an engagement announcement in your local paper.
• Decide on a wedding budget.
• Hire a wedding consultant if you plan to.
• Select a ceremony/reception site.
• Start shopping for a wedding gown.

8-10 Months before the wedding

• Select your bridal party.
• Interview & hire your wedding officiant, reception caterer, photographer & videographer, and band or DJ.
• Decide on bridesmaids dresses.
• Begin your guest list.
• Sign up for gift registries.
• Engagement parties (if planned) should be held now.

5-7 Months before the wedding

• Finalize the guest list.
•Shop for invitations, thanks yous, etc.
• Arrange for out-of-town guests’ accommodations.
• Select your wedding cake.
• Plan for honeymoon.

3 Months before the wedding

• Send out your invitations.
• Select tuxedos. Measurements should be taken at the tux shop.
• Arrange for rental of items for ceremony and reception.
• Discuss finalized menu options and costs with your caterer.
• Arrange transportation/limousine service
• Order wedding favors, napkins, matches, coasters, etc.
• Shop for bridal party gifts.

2 Months before the wedding

• Choose your wedding music.
• Select location for rehearsal dinner.
• Confirm with tux shop that they’ve received all measurements.
• Schedule alterations for bridal gown.
• Schedule fittings for bridesmaids and flower girl.
• Confirm your order with the florist.
• This is the time to host a “bridesmaids luncheon” if you plan to do so.

1 Month before the wedding

• Design your wedding programs. Don’t do this any sooner, because things inevitably change.
• Apply for your marriage license.
• Have a final gown fitting.
• Visit your hair stylist and take your veil.
• Discuss and finalize details with wedding service providers.

2 Weeks before the wedding

• Call any guests who haven’t sent back response cards.
• Give the caterer final head count.
• Pick up your marriage license.
• Give your music list to DJ or band.
• Confirm all rental and floral delivery dates and times.
• Confirm arrival time of all attendants.

Bride

Groom’s wedding ring
Groom’s wedding gift
Bridal attendants gifts
Bridal attire & accessories
Accommodations for out-of-town guests.

Groom

Bride’s Engagement & Wedding Ring
Grooms’ gift to bride
Groomsmen/usher gifts
Bride’s bouquet
Mother’s corsages
Marriage license
Clergyman/officiant fee
Groom’s attire
Boutonnieres for groomsmen/ushers
Limousine service
Honeymoon arrangements

Bride’s Family

Wedding invitations
Wedding programs
Napkins/matches/printed items
Wedding favors
Rice bags
Canopy/Carpet
Rented items for wedding and reception.

(ARA) - Your dear friend or sister announces she’s engaged. She wants you to be her maid of honor. It goes without saying, you’re thrilled for her. But - does this mean you’ll have to plan at least one bridal shower? Not to mention, wear a dress not of your own choosing and find the perfect gift?

If the bridal shower causes you the most anxiety, help is on the way. Kendall McFarland, director of product and recipe development at Simply Organic, suggests cutting down on stress with these time-saving tips to host a simple but sensational shower for the bride.

* Accept help. When the bride’s mother or other guests ask if they can bring anything, say yes. Ask them to bring something you don’t especially enjoy preparing or something you know is that person’s specialty which the bride really loves. Or have each guest bring a dessert or appetizer, so you can focus solely on the rest of the party and fun. Offers to help are gifts, so allow other bridesmaids or friends to assist if they offer. Working together can add to the shower fun, and give you stories to share as you continue down the wedding day road.

* Go the healthy route - the bride, her bridesmaids and the mother of the bride all want to fit into their dresses when the big day finally arrives. The most thoughtful meal you can offer your guests is a delicious and healthful one. Provide great-tasting, nutritious snacks that go easy on salt, fat, sugar and other potentially unhealthy ingredients and your guests will fondly remember your hospitality.

*Remake everyday favorites. Great dishes don’t require hours in the kitchen. Make your easy-to-prepare favorites and dress them up with special festive seasonings. Try distinctive seasoning blends like curry or Italian seasoning, or even seasoned sugar combinations like lemon sugar or cinnamon sugar for a gourmet touch. For example: Add a liberal dose of a spice like oregano, basil or cayenne (or an herbal seasoning blend) along with some garlic and Parmesan cheese to your usual mashed potatoes and you’ll instantly serve something out of the ordinary.

* Use clever shortcuts. For inviting flavor without fuss, keep a supply of natural dressing and dip mixes on hand for fresh, homemade appetizers and snacks. Add a dip or dressing mix, such as creamy dill, French onion, guacamole or ranch to equal parts of low-fat cottage cheese and non-fat plain yogurt and mix in a blender or food processor until smooth. Serve with fresh veggies you can buy already cleaned and cut up at the store.

* Plan and shop wisely. Don’t exhaust yourself shopping. Outline your menu - including impromptu snacks - ahead of time. Then pick up everything non-perishable at the same time, eliminating last-minute sprints to the grocery store.

Here are two great examples of healthy bridal shower dishes from the Simply Organic recipe collection that are easy to prepare:

Strawberry Spice Muffins

Ingredients
1 package Carrot Cake Mix
1/3 cup water
2 large beaten eggs
1 cup very finely diced strawberries

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine carrot cake baking mix, water and eggs. Blend until just moist. Fold strawberries into blend. Pour into well-greased or lined muffin pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
Makes 12 regular-size muffins or six large muffins.
Chef Suggestions

Top with cream cheese frosting and sliced strawberries.

Spicy Clementine Salad

Ingredients

Fresh mixed greens
Feta cheese
Clementine orange slices
1/2 cup juice from fresh Clementine oranges
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup water
1 package Salsa Dip Mix

Directions

Layer greens, cheese and orange slices on a salad plate. Whisk the rest of the ingredients together. Chill until ready to serve, stirring right before drizzling on mixed greens.

For more delicious, healthy and easy recipes, visit www.simplyorganicfoods.com and click on the recipe drop-down menu.

Following is a list of questions and topics to discuss; they will help you and your caterer plan the perfect event, whether it’s your rehearsal dinner or wedding reception.

• Who is the contact person (owner/manager)?
• Talk about what kind of reception you want: formal sit down dinner, Hor d’oeuvres, buffet or cake and punch.
• Tell them the estimated number of guests.
• What is the cost per serving?
• What is the required deposit?
• Is the gratuity included?
• Is there an overtime charge?
• What are the cancellation terms?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• What specialty items do you offer? Do you specialize in certain cuisines or types of menus?
• Can we have a taste test of the foods we choose on our menu?
• What is the per person charge for your basic service?
• What sizes are your portions?
• Do you have different menus to choose from?
• Where is the food prepared?
• When is the menu “final” or “set in stone?” (up to when can we make changes?)
• How do you determine head count?
• How many guests do you over estimate for?
• Will I be allowed to take leftover food home?
• What is the attire of your wait staff?
• Can we see a wedding during set up?
• How much do you charge for a dessert table?
• During your cocktail or buffet receptions, how often will the wait staff replenish the food?
• What is your waiter per person ratio?
• Is the gratuity included in your charge? What percentage?
• Do you have your own reception facility?
• Can you do off-site receptions? Is there an additional charge?
• Do you provide the servers?
• Do you have a liquor license?
• Do you provide bar tenders?
• Who assumes liquor liability?
• Is set up and clean up included in the price?
• Can you provide the wedding cake? Is there an additional charge?
• Do you provide the tables and chairs? How many and what style?
• Do you provide china and glassware? How many and what style?
• Do you provide linens and napkins? Colors?
• Do you provide silver serving accessories? Silver punch bowl”
• Are you familiar with my reception site?
• Do you provide a written estimate and contract?
• Will you guarantee these price estimates?
• What is your refund policy in the event of a cancellation or postponement?

This may seem like a lot of questions to ask, but having the answers will make choosing a caterer and having the reception you’ve dreamed of much simpler.

1. Light Wedding Flowers Right

Add candles to any floral arrangement and you’ll instantly create a romantic ambience. From simple small colored votive candles to large pillar candles, and even pin spot lighting, adding the right light to your floral arrangements will really enhance the look and feel of the room.

Good ideas: Hang candles from tall branchy centerpieces to add warmth to a white-on-white winter scene. For a beach setting, incorporate the surrounding elements using water filled vases and filling them with fresh orchids and small floating candles. To set the tone for a formal affair, have small votives wired into floral arrangements for the escort card table and entryway arrangements. Find a wedding florist who can make it happen.

2. Choose Eye-Catching Colors

To get head-turning arrangements, think color before flower type. Bring color swatches, invites, and other inspirational details to your florist so they can help create arrangements that coordinate with the look and feel of your wedding day.

Good ideas:

For a laid-back wedding outdoors, look to your surroundings for color inspiration -- think earthy greens, browns, and soft ivories.

If it’s a glam look you’re after, think tall dramatic monochromatic and monobotanic arrangements to really wow your guests.

3. Change the Shape

In lieu of perfectly compact bouquets and centerpieces, consider loosening up those arrangements and going for a more unstructured look. The key to getting a look that is modern and not messy the type of flower you choose. Think hearty blooms like gloriosa lilies, red hanging amaranthus, and yellow oncidium orchids -- all good choices because they’re less likely to lose their modern shape throughout the evening.

Good ideas:

Change the shape in other ways by incorporating a few nonfloral elements into your arrangements. To give depth to a formal bridal bouquet, have feathers and crystals threaded throughout. If it’s simple you’re after, consider adding a few in-season extras like berries or even herbs to add interest to an otherwise minimalistic look.