What's All the Fuss About?!?

Finally, the wedding that the Duggar Fans have been waiting for, Jill and Derick Dillard. I dare say the most popular wedding of the heavily booked wedding day. What made her wedding so unique from all of the other thousands of weddings that took place Saturday, June 21, 2014? (besides the fact that she's a Duggar!) The Kiss, of course!

While I'm sure there were a FEW other brides married on Saturday that shared Jill and Derick's belief of saving the kiss for their wedding day, most did not.

In a society where many biblical morals and values are put aside for "times have changed." The purpose and meaning of those are lost, until a family on a reality show live by what many would call out of date rules.

Webster's dictionary defines a kiss: To Salute with the lips, as a mark of affection, reverence, submission, forgiveness, etc. Interestingly, the first mention of a kiss in scriptures is when Jacob was betraying his father Isaac in Genesis 27:26-27. Obviously, there had been thousands of marriages prior to this time, but oddly no mention of a kiss only the physical act of marriage until this story.

Based on biblical teachings, "The kiss symbolized the sealing of a legal contract or bond. The kiss is also  a symbol of commitment, which is why it is so important that a person not kiss before marriage," As stated in the book The Sacredness of a Christian Wedding. An example of this meaning being when Judas kissed Jesus in the garden. "His was a hypocritical act that took the sacred symbol of commitment and turned it into an appalling act of betrayal."

To Christian's who believe that their bodies are the temple of God, they guard their hearts and bodies to live a Christ honoring life for His name's sake. This requires devotion and dedication to the Lord. When a relationship starts with respect for the spiritual well being of another the physical will be a sweet reward God prepared for marriage. Just as Sarah referred to sex as "pleasure" in Genesis 18:12, when she over heard the angel of the Lord telling Abraham that she would have a son, doesn't kissing someone you're romantically fond of pleasure you? Arousing desires that can't be righteously fulfilled as a Christian outside of marriage.

Derick said, "You can really get to know each other on every level without the physical part of it."

Jill said, "We want to save the physical side of our relationship for our wedding day and not go further than we should." "If you are kissing, it gets more intimate. Obviously, you can kiss and not have sex. It's about setting a higher standard so you don't struggle with temptation."

Could kissing (and beyond) be asking (or requiring) your mate to pleasure you before you commit? Putting the physical desires above a persons spiritual needs? A slightly selfish act?

You must admit the decision to wait is a difficult one. Growing up we learn to affectionately kiss those we hold dear. As their hearts have knit together the natural urge to kiss those you love grows with it, but to control that urge can only be controlled by a greater love for their Saviour.

I seriously doubt either of them were disappointed in their first kiss or the many thousands they've had by now. They held to their beliefs and are enjoying the joy of a clear conscience and the  "PLEASURE" that came with the wait.

Congratulations to Derick and Jill! May you live Happily Ever After.

Want to use this article in your E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Owner of Simply Elegant, Dana Ellison publishes "Fancy That" a bi-weekly e-zine. Get your FR*EE modest brides shopping guide: "What Every MODEST Bride MUST Know to Turn Wedding Gown Shopping into a Delightful Experience" at www.simplyelegantforyou.com . Get updates, ideas and sneak peaks on her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/simplyelegantforyou

The Gracious Bride

Short engagements and high expectations will stretch even the most gracious bride to the breaking point. The best way to demonstrate graciousness is to expect stressful situations and plan accordingly.

1. She is Forgiving and Forbearing

Prepare for people problems. Planning a wedding means dealing with people and people mean problems.

 

Understand that offences and errors will come. Exploding does not fix anything and usually requires clean up. Problems happen for a reason and may even cause a better result.

 

2. She has Seasoned Speech

Practice gracious replies for negative comments, compliments, and dealing with problems before they arise.

 

Practice graciousness when speaking about sizing. This is a sensitive issue whether coming from a large or small person. Comments about a dress making you look fat when you are wearing a size 8 can sound prideful to others.

 

It's best to use general comments when you dislike a style on you as in "this isn't the style I was looking for" or "I don't care for the fullness." These are less offense and shows respect of other's feelings.

 

3. She is Discreet



Keep private matters private. Wedding planning involves close contact and communication discovering sensitive issues about someone. Not everything needs to be shared with others.

 

Learn to read peoples expressions and reactions. If you see someone is uncomfortable with a wedding decision be sensitive of their needs or beliefs.

 

Control yourself in uncomfortable situations. Don't make a scene this only draws more attention to what you are uncomfortable about. Use your practiced reply.

 

4. She is Genuinely Kind and Considerate

Humbleness is not discounting the compliments of others. That only discredits their opinion.

 

Be aware of all of the people in your presence. Acknowledge everyone that you can especially if the event is to honor you.

 

Learn to graciously say NO to overly helpful people and unnecessary offers. People that care about you can show their excitement by wanting to help not thinking that you may have plans for that area. Thank them for their offer and tell what area you could use some help so they can feel useful.

 

Treat family kindly. Stress can cause us to take our frustrations out on those closest to us. When the wedding is over you are still family and you don't want to have resentment over wedding plans.

 

5. She Fears the Lord

"Favor is deceitful and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Proverbs 30:31

 

Do you have a reverential fear of God? When it all comes down to it true graciousness comes from within, it really can't be faked. People know if you are genuinely gracious.

 

As a Christian bride you represent the church of the living God. Graciousness is a typical characteristic of the church; wouldn't you say?

 

Keep in mind your Heavenly Father knows the desires of your heart and ordains all circumstances you will deal with because all things are for our good and His glory. Prepare to represent your faith in the best possible form, because this day really isn't all about you. It's about creating a God ordained family. 

 

Happy Planning,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want to use this article? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Owner of Simply Elegant, Dana Ellison publishes "Fancy That" a monthly e-zine. Get your FR*EE modest brides shopping guide: "What Every MODEST Bride MUST Know to Turn Wedding Gown Shopping into a Delightful Experience" at www.simplyelegantforyou.com . Get updates, ideas and sneak peaks on her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/simplyelegantforyou



Will the Chinese New Year Effect Your Wedding Gown?

Are you planning an early spring wedding, March, April or May and haven't found your gown? Then you need to be aware of how the Chinese New Year will effect your order time frame.

Normally, the special order time frame runs 12 - 18 weeks, depending on the brand you order. Current orders are arriving late January - late March. This is perfect timing for the early spring brides, but risky for the mid- late spring weddings.

The 2015 New Year begins on February, 23. Orders placed but not shipped prior to this date will be delayed 4 - 6 weeks while the factories close to celebrate for 2 weeks.  Once they return to work in the factory production will proceed but somehow it seems to take them a while to things back on track.

Brides choosing to special order their dream gown are encouraged to order ASAP so your dress ships prior to the new year break. For those waiting until after the American New Year just be prepared for delays and keep in mind that all things happen for a reason.

If you choose to avoid the delayed arrival of your gown altogether you can always choose from the In Stock.  Immediately Available styles are either in stock at the manufacturer, in transit to the manufacturer or in production. All of which shortens the order time.

I hope this information helps you plan better to get the dress you're dreaming of.

Happy Planning, 

Want to use this article in your blog or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Owner of Simply Elegant, Dana Ellison publishes "Fancy That" a monthly e-zine. Get your FR*EE modest brides shopping guide: "What Every MODEST Bride MUST Know to Turn Wedding Gown Shopping into a Delightful Experience" at www.simplyelegantforyou.com . Get updates, ideas and sneak peaks on her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/simplyelegantforyou, Instragram: simplyelegant4u

Modest Brides Trunk Show

Once your phone number is posted on the internet it's impossible to remove it. Seven years later we still get calls from brides in Knoxville wanting to shop for MODEST weddings gowns. For most of them the drive is just a little too far for their busy schedule.

We are excited to announce our first Modest Brides Trunk Show in Knoxville, TN on November 7 & 8. 

Experience a private showing of our Best Selling styles with your closest family and friends.

Schedule your gown consultation by October 11 for 10% off your gown purchase at the show. Only 8 appointments are available!

For this special show we do require a $25 consultation fee to confirm your appointment. This will be applied to any purchase and is refundable if cancelled 5 business days prior to your appointment.

We have reserved a lovely suite at the Homewood Suites. Conveniently located in the Turkey Creek shopping area; it's close to the I-75 and I-40 intersections for brides coming from all directions.

For brides planning an overnight stay ask for Darrin when booking your room. Mention the Simply Elegant Show for a special rate.

"Finding A Modest Wedding Dress Can Be Extremely Difficult"

It's always a treat to read about brides that PURPOSE to find a modest wedding dress! These brides won't settle for the immodest styles and try to make them look modest, they desire the REAL thing. They go the EXTRA mile, wearing a jacket is not a solution and they refuse "illusion sleeves" as a cover up.

Chandra's story of her persevering search is so encouraging and an example for those that do want a COMPLETE, modest dress.

Now Allure Bridals offers Chandra's dress with the elbow sleeves and an optional charmeuse sash. This is one of our best selling styles. No need for extra fabric and costly alterations! I'm just wondering if Chandra's order encouraged Allure to create the dress?? Who know's what our persevering will produce for other brides with the same goal.

How did you find your Modest dress? Did you try one of those illegal Chinese sites? Were you told that modest was out of style? Tell us your story! We'd love to hear it!

How To Navigate the Buffet Table

So you recently received a wedding invitation and you promptly returned the RSVP card as all guests should. You may have decided what to wear and made your weekend plans but are you familiar with the proper etiquette for a buffet reception?

Our friends from At The Heels Weddings & Events  recently shared a wonderful article by Heather Guthrie on buffet etiquette that I thought you would like to read.

Have you ever noticed how your otherwise well adjusted friends, family and colleagues go crazy at the sight of a buffet table? There is something about beautifully displayed food and a line full of hungry peers that makes people go a little nuts and brings out the worst in certain...click to continue reading

Happy Planning, Dana

This Really Works!!

I'd be rich if I had a dollar for every time I heard "I'm going to lose weight before I order my dress" or "I'm going to order the next smaller size because I'm going to lose weight." We all mean well and have the best intentions, but without determination and a program we continue down the same path.

The half century mark was fast approaching and it was time to get my weight and health under control so I could enjoy the remaining years as I have the previous ones. Then my son got engaged and that really motivated me. I didn't want to look at those pictures the rest of my life like I was then. Plus, I've got new grand babies coming that I've got to keep up with.

I had heard the advertisements on satellite radio, then one day we got a brochure in the mail. A Koko Fit Club had opened near our house. It sounded very interesting to me; a programmed 30 minute workout on one machine! The reviews were great, so I stopped by to do a demo workout.

Amanda was wonderful, very thorough and patient! You first select the goal (program) you want then take a strength test. The computer leads you through the 30 minute workout with different exercise routines each time. Each demonstrated on the monitor (with a skip button:) It's like using Wii Fit.

Each session is saved by USB key and backed up before leaving. Your progress and next workout are viewable on kokofitclub.com.

Cardio is recommended as well using an MP3 player with a 15 minute guided program while you walk on the tread mill or use the elliptical machine.

Koko also has a nutrition program to follow. I haven't followed it as I use a different program through a chiropractor. Primarily my diet consists of grilled meat, lots of green vegies, no processed food and no bread or sweets with LOTS of water. (1qt. for every 50 lbs.) 

My husband was a little leary that I wouldn't stick with it since I've never exercised so he suggested I try the 3 month option first before committing to a year. I was so thrilled with the results after 3 months (and so was he:) that needless to say I signed up for the year!

After 5 months my BMI is down to 27.8, my strength has increased 21%. I've lost 15 lbs. and 2 dress sizes!! I feel so much better!

If you are seriously considering shaping up or renewing you health I HIGHLY recommend Koko Fit Club. They even have a Bride Fit program.

Through 11/15/13 our local clubs (Charlotte & Matthews) are having a sign up special. Get a FREE month if you sign up for a year plus enrollment is half price, $79.

Anyone wanting a real change has to be mentally prepared. Most of our weight and health issues are years of habits that take some time to break. I've been working at this for 5 years and each year I've been able to "give up" some of those old habits and learn new ones. If you're ready to start one new habit, make it the water habit! 

Where are you at in your healthstyle change? Share your progress! We all need some motivation! Our families are counting on us!