Below are some excerpts from "My Bride Guide," a wedding planner for your personal style by Judith Ann Graham. To purchase, visit the store."

Chapter 8 ­ Your Reception Blueprint

COCKTAIL HOUR TABOOS
1. Don't arrive so late at your cocktail reception that you are unable to enjoy it. After all, you want to be a part of all you've planned.
2. Don't allow too much time to lapse between your ceremony and reception. In general allow no more than 90 minutes between the two. If you must have more time, arrange a pre-reception where guests can congregate for light non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
3. Don't drink alcohol on an empty stomach. Be sure you eat something before your ceremony and watch your alcoholic intake during your cocktail reception.

TIP: Drink one glass of champagne followed by a glass of water. Champagne can go to your head and no one wants to see the bride have a meltdown. Alternate your drinks with water and stick to one alcoholic beverage type.

Chapter 11 ­ Picture Perfect

CREATIVE WEDDING ALBUMS
All Candids ­ A good photojournalist will cleverly compose a group shot with a relaxed look. If this style appeals to you, your wedding album will have a charming quality of spontaneity.
Magazine Style ­ Tell a story by fusing together action and reaction shots just like a magazine spread. You can also display photos on an artist-style easel. Ask for a few panoramic shots.
Fabric Album ­ More than a wedding album, this unique album captures the essence of your wedding right from the cover. You may consider a few wedding photos and then keep the rest of the pages for photos of your honeymoon, your first anniversary, birthday celebrations and other important family occasion.
Personalized CD's ­ Ask your photographer to design your website for early peeks of your beautiful wedding photos. Within a few days, your proofs can be displayed and posted on your website so friends and family can select their favorites and purchase them directly.

TIP: For creative fabric albums you will always want to keep on display check out www.bookpenandcandle.com.

Chapter 13 ­ Wedding Cake Wonders

QUESTIONS TO ASK A CAKE MAKER
1. Do you make your cakes from scratch or do you use mixes?
2. What flavors can I choose from and what kind of fillings do you suggest?
3. What type of icing is your preference to make? Butter cream or a rolled fondant?
4. Ask to see photos of wedding cakes the baker has made. Is the cake style simple or elaborate? Which do you prefer?
5. How large a wedding cake do I need for the number of guests I have? If I need to cut costs will you make a sheet cake with exact ingredients to be served from the kitchen?

TIP: Many brides like to fashion their wedding cake after their gown. Consider some interesting elements that relate to both. Using bold color on cakes is a recent trend. Do you have a favorite color theme?

Chapter 14 ­ Bridal Gowns and Wedding Apparel

FORMAL ATTIRE DOS & DON'TS
Do select a gown that coincides with the formality and time of day of your wedding. Do wear (or take) the appropriate lingerie and shoes for your bridal gown shopping trips. Do select a headpiece and veil during your first fitting. You want the veil length and headpiece to coordinate with the dress. Do practice walking, sitting and turning in you dress. Managing a train takes practice. Don't ask the groom to wear a tuxedo unless you are having a formal wedding with the reception beginning at 6:00 PM or later. Don't wear a veil if you are a second time bride. It is in poor taste. Don't dress too casually even if your wedding is at noon on the beach. The commitment is formal so make the day special. Don't ask the groom to wear a foolish cummerbund and tie that is too feminine in color or style.

TIP: Your gown sets the level of formality for the wedding. Let people know what you are wearing so they can plan to dress appropriately.