What is a perfect wedding?
By Loyless Harris

What is a perfect wedding? There is really no "perfect" wedding, but there can be one that is outstanding in the minds of the guests, as well as just what the bridal couple wants. Something, even though it is small, is bound to "go wrong" and there will nothing you can do about it. Don't worry, though, because you will probably be the only person who knows about it.

In today's world there are no hard, fast rules about weddings. There was a day when a first-time bride wore white to show that she was a virgin. If she had been married before, she wore off-white, ecru or some soft color.

We often see today's bride's not only wearing colors, but they even wear dark colors, such as navy blue and black. An all black and white wedding can be very pretty, if done in good taste. The style of the dresses plays a big part in the overall effect.

I remember when my older cousin married in 1961 and my mother wanted to wear a beautiful summer dress featuring shade of purple flowers and her black patent shoes. My aunt got upset, saying that it was awful for Mother to wear black to their niece's wedding. The black patent shoes were well suited for the dress, so my mother wore them any way. Folks, that was 40 years ago and things have changed!

When I married in 1972, I planned my wedding the way I wanted it. I chose a celery-color (greenish white) fabric and had my dress made just for me. It had long sheer sleeves and instead of a veil I had a pill box headpiece with the illusion running through seed pearl loops. The dress and headpiece were rather Renaissance in appearance, and I liked it. My shoes were off-white, which enhanced the color of the dress.

If someone tells you that it can't be done because of this or that, just remember that it CAN be done if you want it to be done.

The only rules you have to follow are those made by the place where your wedding and reception are to take place.

You might, however, want to brush up on some of the rules of etiquette. For example, if you decide to use candles at the reception, or the rehearsal dinner or the bridesmaids' luncheon, you should look up the rules for displaying candles before you decorate. These rules may change your plans for the table motif. Remember, a basic rule for using candles is that you never use them unless they are lighted and you should have the drapes drawn to make the room dark enough, as candles would not be needed in a room full of sunlight.

Relax, now, and enjoy all the festivities. This should be your one and only wedding, so make the best of it.

In years to come you will look back on the photographs, videotapes and newspaper clippings, only to remember how special your wedding was.