The OurWeddingDay Blog

Maybe it’s a sign of the times, but the Dollar Dance is all the rage at weddings these days. Originating in Poland around the 1900s, the dance started as a way for newlyweds to get some cash to start them on the road to married life. Often, the money was used to help the couple afford a honeymoon. At the reception, the male guests would take turns dancing with the bride, and put a dollar in her purse. At some weddings, an apron would be attached to the bride’s dress, so guests could place the money inside. Bride’s sometimes had the money pinned to their veils, or even a piece of material sewn onto the dress.

Read the rest here, including how to plan for the right music and length of dance, as well as how your groom can get in on the act.

At a fiscal summit in D.C. President Bill Clinton amused the crowd with a story of how his daughter Chelsea wants him to lose weight for her wedding with Marc Mezvinsky.

"She doesn't think I'm in shape to handle it. You know, she told me the other day, she said, ‘Dad the only thing you gotta do is walk me down the aisle and you need to look good’So I said ‘Well, what's your definition?’ And she said: ‘Oh, about 15 pounds.’ So I'm halfway home."

It isn't the first time a parent of hers shared a story about her wedding planning.

Have you asked a friend or family member to diet or change their appearance for your wedding?

Wedding gowns are more complicated than any other outfit you’ll probably ever wear. Remember how much help you needed trying them on? Except you'll need just as much help—if not more—when you get dressed on your big day.

1. Begin by getting dressed in your bra, lingerie, stockings and garter.
2. Save any sharp jewelry for after you’re already in the dress.
3. Enlist attendants or your mother to help you get into your gown.
4. Make sure everyone’s hands are clean, and be very careful to avoid getting lipstick or foundation on your gown when you pull it on.
5. If you need to pull the dress over your head, use a tea towel or scarf to cover your face carefully so that none of your face's natural oils touch the fabric.
6. If your hairstylist has already pinned on your headpiece, be mindful not to snag it.
7. Have someone crouch to slip your shoes onto your feet Cinderella-style.
8. Give your helpers plenty of time to fasten buttons.
9. Make sure your attendants know how to bustle your train. Most brides choose to bustle the train before the wedding reception. If your dress can’t be bustled, ask your seamstress to attack a loop to the train so that you can easily lift it for walking and dancing.

Remember, if it took several friends to help you get your dress on, it may be just as complicated getting it off. Have a friend loosen tedious buttons as you leave the reception if you anticipate problems.