Transportation

No matter what style wedding you have, there are a variety of vehicles to meet your transportation needs. Sexy sedans, traditional limousines, SUVs and stretch or super stretch limousines are always popular. Many limousines provide the comfort of leather seating and special features like televisions, stereos, bars and special lighting. Be sure to ask if drinks are included!
Buses are also a popular way to move large wedding parties from place to place. The available styles and sizes vary greatly; from luxurious motor coaches to mini-buses, these vehicles vary as much on the inside as they do on the outside.
A trolley provides a fun atmosphere and attention from the public. Most trolleys hold up to 45 passengers and can be very cost effective. In many cases you can even decorate and personalize your trolley. You can send out-of-town guests on a citywide trolley tour with refreshments while the wedding party is taking pictures.
expert tip
In order to guarantee the largest selection to choose from, book your transportation as soon as you have your wedding date, your ceremony and reception sites, and your wedding day time frame determined. This usually translates to about six months before the wedding, but some couples are booking out as far as two years!
Many couples only plan transportation for the day of the wedding, but area professionals point out that you may need transportation for pre- and post-wedding activities as well. You can rent vehicles to transport your wedding party for tuxedo or dress fittings or to party in style at your bachelor or bachelorette party. If your budget permits, you might consider shuttling out-of-town guests between the airport, their accommodations, and the wedding festivities.
When booking transportation, one professional maintains it is crucial to visit the company and actually inspect the vehicles. People tend to book most of their transportation over the phone or on a website. Our professional points out that this can be very risky. Online pictures of a vehicle can be deceiving and you never know how long ago they were taken. Work with a company that will give you a service agreement or something in writing. This reduces the likelihood of miscommunication. Weddings are so important and you want things to be as perfect as possible!

The Videography

Wedding videography captures all the special moments of the wedding day—some you may remember and others you may not even know occurred.
Artistically capturing your wedding on video is important because it is the only way to preserve both the sights and the sounds of your wedding day. It allows you to relive the moments that rushed by in a blur of excitement: the vows, kisses, dances, toasts, laughter and excitement. Wedding videography lets you experience the moments you completely missed in addition to the possible bloopers, the tears of joy, and the sentiments of your guests. You are the star of your own romantic movie!
But videography is not only for viewing those priceless memories for generations to come, it is also for your actual wedding day. You can entertain your wedding guests with extra services such as photo montages, highlights of the ceremony, or your “Love Story” to show at the reception.
Before you ask Uncle Rick to bring his camcorder as a stand-in videographer, remember that filming your special day can be a very high pressure job. Wedding videographers have to capture all the right moments at just the right times. They work with the wedding photographer, must interact well with all the guests and have the proper equipment to film your special day. Don’t burden a guest with such an important responsibility. Professional wedding videographers have the artistic eye and the years of experience needed to ensure your wedding emotions, events and memories are captured in a way you will enjoy watching over and over again. There is a broad array of package prices, artistic styles and levels of experience, so be sure to view a thorough sample of a videographers work - and at least one complete video.

video tips
Compare the work of potential videographers. Make sure to view the work of the person who will actually be recording the event.
View a thorough sample of a potential videographer’s work.
Check videos for clarity, steadiness, and attention to detail.
Listen carefully to the quality of various sounds, from soft-spoken vows to the beat of dance music.
Look to see if desired feelings and moods are captured.
Watch for transition from scene to scene and the use of special effects (if desired).
Contact the videographer to make sure he or she will interact well with you and your guests.
Get everything in writing. Check over the contract so you know what is included.
Discuss any special requests ahead of time.
If the videographer will be recording both the ceremony and reception, check to see if he or she needs to be included in the dinner count.

Music & Entertainment

the ceremony
Start planning the music for the ceremony first by meeting with the clergy person to discuss any restrictions, the order of the ceremony and how music should be incorporated. Usually, couples choose music for the following parts of the service, but are not limited to these spots:
prelude - music played during the seating of guests that usually lasts for ten to fifteen minutes.
seating of the parents - this usually consists of one song and is sometimes a vocal solo with special meaning for the bride and groom.
processional - a song, usually instrumental, played while the bridesmaids and bride proceed down the aisle.
song for the bride and groom - this is usually a vocal song of special significance to the bride and groom, and is most often sung immediately after the vows are made.
recessional - the music played after the ceremony while the bridal party exits.
postlude - music played as guests are dismissed.

questions to consider before hiring ceremony musician(s)
What is the central theme of the ceremony? Formal or informal?What feelings should the music evoke? Romance? Drama?Do you desire vocals or instrumental music or a combination of both?How much of a priority is music? Are you willing to book high profile musicians?How much can be spent for ceremony music?Do you prefer live music, or are music recordings acceptable as a background for a vocalist?Which special songs should be included in the ceremony? Musicians can help you crystallize what you want.Does the church or ceremony location have its own sound system or will the musicians have to provide one?Have you shopped around? Do you know who can give you the highest quality?Have you checked the person/group’s references to make sure they are reliable?Have you heard them in person? It is important to verify they are what you expect and want.Are you booking as soon as possible?

tips for a ceremony that flows
Give the musician(s) a schedule or “script” of the ceremony, with their songs highlighted, then they will know where in the service they will be playing.
Check out the sound system ahead of time, including the piano or organ that will be used.
Make sure a written agreement is in place. Formally confirm all dates and times with the musicians.
the reception
questions to consider before hiring reception music & entertainment
How long should music be played? When should it start? What is the desired mood of the reception?Are there special songs you want played?What type of music? Live or recorded music? Do you want dancing music? Background music? How much can be spent on reception music and entertainment?Are you buying entertainment according to your schedule of events or because there is an all-inclusive package? Are you paying for hours of entertainment you do not really need?Are you just shopping price? Remember, entertainment can make the party!Have you met the DJ/entertainers/musicians who will actually work at your wedding? Will they have good rapport with you and your guests?How many years of experience do they have?Are they keeping abreast of changes in the industry? Do they belong to any associations?
tips for smooth reception entertainment
Get everything in writing ahead of time: cost, time of set-up and tear down, and amount of performance time.
Meet the DJ/entertainers/musicians who will actually be at the reception. Discuss ahead of time expectations and any special requests you want played or not played.
Make sure the style of the entertainment fits with the desired style of the celebration. Consider guests preferences in music too.
top three first dance songs
Courtesy of Prime Time Mobile DJs
Father & Daugher:
I Loved Her First, HeartlandMy Little Girl, Tim McGrawMy Wish, Rascal Flatts
Mother & Son:
My Wish, Rascal FlattsI Hope You Dance, Leeann WomackWhat a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong

Wedding reception & Rehersal Dinner

rehearsal dinner
All of the stresses and excitement of planning your wedding come to a head as you and your closest friends and family unite for the rehearsal dinner. This is the time when you reflect on your relationship as many meaningful toasts are given.
Traditionally, the groom's parents host the rearsal dinner. Common venues are private clubs, restaurants, hotels, parks or even at home. No matter what size, tailor the rehearsal dinner to your style and taste. Whether that is an intimate dinner with a small group, a large cookout, or something entirely different!

reception
The party begins! You and your guests will probably spend most of the festivities at your reception, so carefully consider your location options. What is your budget? What kind of celebtration do you want to have? Indoor? Outdoor? How many people are you going to invite? What mood do you want to convey? Elegant? Trendy? Casual? Formal? There are reception sites for whatever style wedding you plan.
Hotels, catering halls, country clubs and restaurants are popular sites for recptions, but other favorites include museums, university unions, athletic clubs, and ethnic or social clubs. For those on a tight budget, the church hall is a favorite reception site, usually available at little or no cost.
expert tips
Even with so many reception venue options, the most popular sites are often reserved more than a year in advance. Try to reserve your reception location before making other plans.
Consider scheduling your wedding for a Friday or Sunday, which are commonly less sought after than Saturday. Somefacilities offer special discounts or incentives for receptions held on days other than Saturday.

Questions to Ask When Looking at Reception Sites:
Is the site available on your wedding day? Are they hosting other weddings that day? How many people does the facility accommodate? Can they accommodate your parking needs? Is there a charge for parking? Do they have dance space? Is there an adequate sound system? What are their policies on beverages, food and catering services? Do they have time restrictions? Are there decoration restrictions? Are tables, chairs, linens, silverware and other accessories provided?What is the rental fee?Is there a cancellation fee?How much do you need to deposit to save your date?
catering
Indoors or out, reception guests look forward to food and refreshment. Thankfully, professional caterers offer a full range of culinary delights and services. Formal dinners, buffets and brunches can feature a variety of tasty cuisines. Hors d'oeuvres, salads, breads, desserts, pastries and even pig roasts are available for reception fare. Caterers today can satisfy the tastes of any couple, not only for receptions, but also for rehearsals and showers.
Many reception facilities are under contract with specific caterers, giving you no choice in your food service. If you area ble to choose your own caterer, there are a delectable variety of caterers to choose from in the area.
When calling caterers for prices and menus, ask about sampling before making a final decision. Some caterers specialize in the business, while others can be part of a restaurant or food market that goes off premise to cater. With such a variety to choose from, there is certainly something for everyone's taste!

outdoor receptions
Depending on the time of year, an outdoor reception can be absolutely beautiful. Some reception halls have outdoor sites available or you can choose from a variety of city, county, and state parks. Otherwise, you could always host your celebration in your own home or backyard à la Father of the Bride!
If you decide to host your reception at a local park, you may be able to reserve a pavilion. Make sure to find out well in advance what you are allowed and not allowed to do. Each park has its own particular rules and restrictions.
If you choose to host your reception outdoors, there are additional considerations to take into account. Does your site have some kind of shelter or will you provide your own? Is there restroom accessibility? Do you have an alternate plan in case of inclement weather? How will you deal with extreme conditions? Do you have to deal with a large insect population?
A major benefit of hosting your reception in the great outdoors is the picturesque atmosphere. An outside reception also allows for a wide range of menu options. Enjoy anything from no-frills picnics to formal sit-down dinners. You can hire a caterer or do-it-yourself with the help of rental companies.

rentals
Rental companies offer everything you need to make your reception the perfect event. Do you need shelter? Rental tents let you enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors while offering protection from the elements. Tents are available in many sizes; some can even accommodate over 2,500 people! They are also available in different styles, from open-air canopies to tents enclosed with French windowed walls. Complete the ensemble with tables, chairs, table settings, linens and chair covers in a wide array of styles and colors. Rental companies also offer dance floors, lighting, audio-visual equipment and more to provide the ideal atmosphere for any celebration.
When choosing an outdoor venue there is one more thing to keep in mind: restroom accessibility. Some companies that carry portable restrooms will rent them for special events. Companies that specialize in the business may surprise you. Their units are clean and can come equipped with flushing toilets, sinks, mirrors and lights, providing all the conveniences of an indoor facility outdoors!

reception traditions
first toast: the best man proposes the first toast after the wedding party has been served. This is usually followed by toasts from other relatives, friends, or the bride and groom.
newlyweds’ cake-cutting: The bride and groom cut the cake hand-over-hand and feed each other a small piece.
first dance: The newlyweds dance the first dance as guests look on. Although traditionally a waltz, a contemporary approach can entail a special song, choreographed routine, or any dance the couple chooses. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. It takes time for a professional to help enhance this once in a lifetime first dance as husband and wife.
customary dances: Following the first dance, the bride dances with her father, the groom’s father and best man. The groom dances with the bride’s mother, his mother and maid of honor. Other guests join the wedding party on the floor after these dances.
tossing the bouquet: The bride tosses a small bouquet over her shoulder to a waiting group of single women. According to tradition, the woman who catches the bouquet will be the next bride.
garter toss: The groom removes the bride’s garter from her leg and throws it to a waiting group of bachelors. According to tradition, the lucky recipient will be the next groom.

reception entertainment
photo booths
Photo booths are one of the newest reception trends and they are quickly becoming a wedding staple! During receptions, guests often look for something to do, whether during the lull between the ceremony and the reception, right after dinner, or even during dancing. Keep your guests occupied and entertained throughout the night by renting a photo booth.
Couples usually rent one from anywhere between three to eight hours. Guests will love plotting their poses and picking out props. They walk away with a photo they can keep and the bridal couple has a copy that is placed into a scrapbook keepsake just for them. Photo booths are the perfect way to entertain your guests and to preserve fun wedding memories at the same time.

caricatures
For the couple that wants a distinctive and unique wedding reception, hire a caricature artist to entertain your guests and have them talking about your reception for years to come. A caricature artist will set up his easel facing out from the wall so weddings guests can gather around and watch the process. Artists can usually draw anywhere from twelve to eighteen people in an hour.
Guests are entertained by the interactive process and they leave your reception with an artistic and memorable wedding favor. The appeal of caricature crosses generations. Guests of all ages enjoy the excitement generated by watching an artist at work. People that might not otherwise want to be drawn enjoy having their image captured when they are all “dolled up” for a wedding.
Families, couples, children, the bridal party and more love sitting for a caricature artist. It is priceless entertainment for all involved, even if not everyone takes home a drawing.

Planning Your Wedding. Some things to concider

A wedding ceremony is an outward statement of a committed relationship and an officiant can help personalize that statement. If you belong to a church or have a religious affiliation you may want to consider choosing a reverend or other clergyperson from your place of worship to officiate the ceremony. If you desire general religious themes in your wedding but do not necessarily want to reference a specific religion or have a traditional religious ceremony, there are other officiants that can help you create a customized wedding ceremony. Otherwise, a civil servant can officiate the wedding if you want a ceremony without any religious content.

expert tip
When trying to personalize and coordinate your wedding, do not worry about choosing your colors and making those the building blocks of your theme. If you are having trouble coming up with ideas, look to other areas of inspiration. Is there a particular accessory you simply must include? Start coordinating your wedding around that instead.
vows
Another way to personalize your ceremony is through your vows. Some ambitious couples write their own vows. If you intend to do this, discussyour plans with your officiant so you can include any particular wording thatmay be necessary. Ask the officiant if he or she has any suggestions or has seenanything from previous ceremonies that you might want to include. If marryingin a church, find out if there are any conditions about personalized vows.

after the ceremony
Directly after the ceremony your guests can celebrate your union by launching rice as you brave the crowd of well-wishers. Rice is not as popular as it once was. Some churches simply do not allow rice since their small size makes them tricky to clean up. If you are not allowed to use rice or just want to do something different, try personalizing this aspect of your ceremony by providing real or silk flower petals for your guests to throw. Packets of birdseed work well too, and you don’t have to worry about clean up! Blowing bubbles is absolutely beautiful, but warn guests that they potentially stain silk clothing.
Other brides and grooms opt to have their guests release helium-filled balloons, butterflies or doves. White doves can provide a breathtaking image. Doves are a wellknown symbol of peace, but they also represent purity, love, unity and spirit. Available for release year-round, these doves are not left defenseless in the wild, but return directly to their aviary after released. Pyrotechnicians can add a dramatic effect by lighting the night sky with a variety of colorful fireworks, or your guests can carry sparklers to light the way.

nontraditional weddings
destination weddings
Travel agents confirm an increase in the number of couples that want to plandestination weddings. One travel agent has found that many couples lead very busy lives and do not have the time or energy to plan the extravagant wedding they want. Instead, they are turning to their local travel agents for wedding help.
Resorts usually have complete wedding packages, but are sometimes restrictive on who can come. For example, if you want to invite children to your wedding, you will have to make arrangements at someplace other than a “couples only” resort. One agent advises that you compile a list of people you think could come. Your agent can then find a resort to accommodate you.
Travel agents are essential when planning destination weddings. They can arrange the wedding date, time, and transportation details. They will also coordinate the trip for all your guests by getting passports, visas, and other paperwork in order. Your travel agent can help make your wedding an event you will never forget!
theme weddings
Theme weddings are not as common as you might think from watching weddings on television or looking through national bridal magazines, probably because many brides hear “theme wedding” and immediately assume “tacky.” One bridal consultant we talked to insists this does not have to be the case. Oftentimes,choosing a theme can make other wedding decisions easier to make. Themes can be as simple as a particular season or item from nature, or as elaborate as a particular historical era or ethnic celebration.

Your Budget

Available Funds
Enter the total dollars available:
Categories
Bridal Gown w/Alterations:
Headpiece:
Accessories:
Hair/Make Up:
Groom Tuxedo:
Bride Rings:
Groom Ring:
Stationery:
Photography:
Videotaping:
Ceremony Musicians:
Reception Entertainment:
Wedding Cake:
Flowers:
Aisle Runner:
Candles:
Favors:
Additional Decorations:
Ceremony Officiant:
Rental Equipment:
Wedding License:
Food & Beverage Catering:
Rehearsal Dinner:
Reception Hall Rental:
Transportation:
Bride's Attendant Gifts:
Groom's Attendant Gifts:
Bride's Gift:
Groom's Gift:
Honeymoon:

How much remains?

Wedding Emergency Kit

• Bride Emergency Kit
  Your wedding day will be one of the most exciting and emotional days so far in your life. That being said, we've compiled a list of items every bride should have in their Bride Emergency Kit. Start gathering items early or have someone you trust put together your kit and bring it with them on your wedding day.
  Things to Include in an Emergency Kit
  Antacid
  Band-Aids
  Batteries/Film/Memory Card for Cameras
  Bobby Pins
  Bottle of water
  Breath mints/Gum
  Cash (because you never know)
  Cellular phone
  Chalk (to cover up any last minute smudges or smears on your dress)
  Clear deodorant
  Clear fingernail polish for touchup and pantyhose runs
  Comb/brush
  Concealer
  Contact lens solution/extra contact lenses
  Copies of itinerary and vendor contact info
  Copies of the ceremony readings
  Corsage pins
  Dental floss/toothpicks
  Double-sided tape
  Eye drops
  Extra earring backs
  Extra socks for groomsmen
  Face blotting paper
  Hair spray
  Hand lotion
  Hand sanitizer/towelettes (you don’t want splash-ups from a sink)
  Handheld fan
  Hem tape
  Hot Glue & Glue gun/Krazy Glue
  Lip balm/Lipstick
  Local taxi numbers for guests who may need them
  Makeup powder
  Matches
  Mini lint brush
  Mirror
  Nail file
  Nail glue
  Needle & thread (make sure you have matching thread for bride’s gown, tuxedos, bridesmaid’s and mother’s dresses)
  Pain Reliever
  Pantyhose
  Pen/Pencil
  Perfume (travel-sized)
  Ponytail holders
  Safety pins
  Sanitary Napkins/Tampons
  Scotch tape
  Scissors
  Shoe Polish
  Shout wipes
  Small flashlight (for power outages)
  Smelling salts/Ammonia inhalant
  Snacks (granola bars, chocolate, candies—steer clear of messy!)
  Stapler (tiny one to use instead of needle & thread)
  Static-cling remover
  Straws (so you don’t mess up lipstick)
  Sunblock (more for outdoor weddings—but also for pictures)
  Tissues
  Tweezers
  Wrinkle release spray

Picking You Photographer

Months of wedding planning go into this one fleeting day. Capture those priceless moments in photographs you will treasure for years to come.
Choosing the right professional wedding photographer is an essential part of accomplishing this. Good photographers will demonstrate competence, experience, and knowledge of their equipment. One local professional recommends looking for a wedding photographer that interacts well with people. Your photographer is present for much of your wedding day, and you do not want someone that makes you or your guests uncomfortable. A professional wedding photographer will offer an easy-to-understand contract or brochure that states explicitly what is included in your wedding photography package. Make sure to check references!
In order to cut costs, it may be tempting to as a friend or relative to snap a few photographs for you. This is a lot of pressure to place on someone who is not a professional, and the risk of accidental loss or damage rises dramatically. A professional wedding photographer will not only safeguard against catastrophes, he or she will also be able to help make decisions about style, poses and the sequence of shots. In addition, professionals can be a tremendous resource because they have wedding expertise that extends beyond the camera. Wedding photographers are one of the few professionals there throughout the day. They know which other wedding professionals are consistently outstanding. Take advantage of your wedding photographer's experience!
photography styles
formal: classic, posed photos that are usually agreed on beforehand, such as shots of the entire bridal party, the bride with her parents, and the groom with his parents.
photojournalistic: photographs that are generally taken from a distance so the subject is unaware and does not pose. It captures more natural emotion.
editorial: a blend of both formal andphotojournalistic shots.
Each wedding photographer approaches his or her artistry with a distinct style. Some take a classic approach, while others take a romantic or dramatic appproach. Find a photographer whose style matches the style you envision for your wedding and your photographs.
As with most other wedding services, book a photographer as soon as possible, which usually means as soon as you have set the wedding date. One wedding photographer also recommends that you have your ceremony and reception sites picked out.
After your wedding, it typically takes four to six weeks to receive proofs. Digital photographers can make proofs almost immediately; however, there is oftentimes so much footage to go through that it takes longer. Many digital photographers will provide a CD to view on a computer or even post an online wedding gallery accessible throught their website.
Engagement Photos
An engagement portrait session is a great chance for camera shy brides and grooms to practice their poses before the big day. It is also an opportunity for you to see your photographer in action. You may already know you like your photographer's style, but it is just as important that you feel comfortable and interact well with your photographer.
These photos mark the beginning of a veru momentous time in your relationship — and a cute shot of the two of your for the newspaper announcement is a must! Book your portrait session four to five months ahead of the wedding so you have plenty of time to submit photos to your local newspaper.
Trash the Dress
As brides stray ever further from the traditional wedding format, they are looking for new and creative ideas to keep their weddings fresh and unique. At the forefront of this quest for originality is the Trash teh Dress campaign. Originating in Las Vegas and quickly spreading across the country, Trash the Dress photographers shoot brides dressed in their wedding gowns in settings that are anything but elegant. Brides have often expressed frustration that they spend so much money on a beautiful gown and can never wear it again. This is their way of rebelling against the controlled formality of the wedding and turning the dress into an event of its own.
A Trash the Dress photo session is usually within a month of the wedding. You can wreak havoc on your gown during a photo shoot by getting it wet, dirty, cutting it up and even burning it. It is an extreme form of personal expression. You are able to create absolutey beautiful imagery while doing fun things you could not possibly do on your wedding day!

Chosing your attendants

Choose attendants you are close to and trust to handle important details before, during and after the ceremony.
Attendants should be people you trust to support not only you and your fiancé, but also your marriage.
An invitation to be an attendant is permanent—except in extreme circumstances—so avoid friends and family that are unreliable and irresponsible and that you might later wish you could “unask.”
Do not feel like you need to invite someone to be an attendant simply because you were an attendant in his or her wedding.
Remember that you do not need to invite every friend you have ever had to be an attendant. There are other positions to fill: personal attendant, vocalist, reader, manning the guest book or gift table, etc.
Inform attendants of the expected financial commitment before they commit.
Typically the bride and groom have between two and six attendants each. A good rule of thumb is one bridesmaid and groomsman for every 50 guests.

The Dress for You Body Type

the pear or triangleYou have a small bust in relation to your full hips.
Look for dresses that de-emphasize your lower half and bring width to your upper half. A portrait neckline helps widen your shoulder line, as do capped, poufed, balloon, melon, or Juliet sleeves. You may also add a little more to your bodice with an applique, beading, or lace overlay. Look for a plain skirt with a high waistline such as an empire waist.
Avoid dresses that will call attention to your shape, such as the clingy sheath or mermaid style dresses, and necklines that cut inward, such as halters. Also, steer clear of full skirts or skirts with heavy folds, ruffles, bows, beading, and bustles.

full-figuredYou have a fuller bust, hips and waistline.
Look for simplicity. You will want dresses that minimize your waistline and create the illusion of smaller hips and thighs. Keep beading to a minimum, and opt for flat beads instead of round ones. A fuller skirt will mask your lower body. Angled lines will minimize the fullness of your figure, so look for a dress with a dropped V-waist and a V-neckline. Princess and A-line dresses are the best silhouettes for you.
Avoid dresses that are too form fitting and have too much detailing.

petiteYour shorter height is proportional to your smaller bust, hips and waistline.
Look for dresses that will lengthen you. Vertical lines will make you look taller. Find them in narrow mermaid or sheath style dresses and in dresses with vertical pleats in the skirt. Lengthen your torso with high necklines and with asymmetrical and Basque waistlines. If form-fitting options don’t look ideal on you, look at A-line or Princess style dresses and dresses with an Empire waist.
Avoid large, poofy dresses. They tend to drown you and make you look like a giant marshmallow. Also avoid large amounts of detailing.

the rectangleYou are proportional through the bust and hips with an undefined waistline.
Look for dresses that are ambiguous about your shape or dresses that add curves to your body. A princess style dress gives the illusion of curves. An empire waistline hides your actual waistline and draws the eye toward the detail on your bodice. Bateau and off the shoulder necklines provide horizontal lines to break up the verticality of your figure.
Avoid dresses that have a definite form you will need to fill, such as those with darted bust lines, and dresses that cling to your silhouette.

the inverted triangleYou have a full bust in relation to your small hips.
Look for dresses that highlight your lower half while de-emphasizing your upper half. Minimize your shoulder width by opting for a dress with a simple bodice, natural shoulder lines, and little sleeve or shoulder detail. Lengthen your upper half with a dropped waist, such as a Basque waistline. Feel free to have a full skirt or one with bow, pleats, beading, lace, etc.
Avoid dresses that call attention to your top, such as low cut dresses, high waistlines, slim skirts, or dresses with beads, sequins, lace, or appliques on the bodice or sleeves.

the hourglassYou have a full bust and hips with a small waistline.
Look for almost any style you want. You can highlight your curves by wearing a mermaid or sheath style dress. Downplay your lines by wearing a classy dress with simple lines. Off-the-shoulder or sleeveless, princess or a-line, scoop or v-neck, they all look good!
Avoid very low or very high necklines, because they either show too much or cover too much. Steer clear of too much detail on the dress because it may make you look heavier than you are.

other considerationsissue: Thick waist fix: Empire Waistline
issue: Short waist fix: Princess-style dress
issue: Long waist fix: High waistline (i.e. Basque waist)
issue: Heavy hips fix: Cover it up, but don’t add to it, with a full—but not poofy—skirt without ruffles,bows, etc.
issue: Small bustfix: Look for dresses with jewel, bateau, Sabrina, or squared necklines. Accent what you do have with gowns that are pleated or ruffled across the bust. Opt for intricate detailing with beads or embroidery along the bustline. Remember that you will need a push-up bra, so steer clear of dresses that cannot be worn with the type of bra you need.
issue: Large bustfix:Pick a dress with a simple bodice. Stay away from beads, embroidery, lace, and sequins. You have versatility in the type of bustline you wear. Square, strapless, scoop, sweetheart, v-shaped, Queen Anne, and off-the-shoulder all look good, but steer clear of high necklines such as jewel, bateau, portrait, and halter tops. Balance your proportions with an eye-catching skirt.
issue: Tallfix: Look for dresses with horizontal lines to break up your height, such as strapless dresses, sashed waistlines, and various-length skirting layers. Steer clear of long fluid lines, such as sheath style dresses. Halters are very flattering on tall people, especially if you have strong shoulders.
issue: Bulky armsfix: A little coverage. Pick a dress with ¾ or full length sleeves. Steer clear of capped sleeves and strapless dresses.