Plus Size Wedding Dresses Everyone Will Love

One of the most important events in a lifetime, your wedding day is no time to be worried about your figure. To satisfy even the slightest of concerns, it makes sense to search for a beautiful gown that brings out the parts of your body you love the most while de-emphasizing other areas.

Since buying a wedding gown is usually a one-time process, it's not uncommon for future brides to be rather unfamiliar with the different styles and silhouettes available to them. To get you started on the path leading to the aisle, here are a few figure flattering wedding gown options for plus size brides with details on what they can do for your body type.

Trumpet Silhouette Taffeta Gown

Part of the Galina Signature line, this gown features high end styling and materials plus a design meant to flatter fuller figures. The dress's trumpet style silhouette flares gently from an ornate fitted bodice to hide lower areas of the body while drawing the eye upward.

The taffeta gown, available in ivory or white, features a striking high collar neckline that is adorned with an intricate beaded pattern to emphasize your upper body. The dress features a classic button back detail and a chapel train, which extends one and a third yards from the waist, for a decidedly elegant effect. A breathtaking showpiece, this gown offers a perfectly classic way to occupy the spotlight on your happy day.

Strapless Satin Ball Gown

For an even more traditional alternative to the many contemporary designs on the market, this striking dress, part of the Oleg Cassini collection, fits the bill to a T. This luxurious satin ball gown style dress features an extra full ruffled skirt that seems to flow like gentle waves from a fitted natural waistline.

The gown's bodice is marked by a lovely strapless yet modest neckline and is adorned with beautiful beaded embroidery that is echoed and balanced by intermittent bursts of matching embroidery among the skirt's dramatic ruffles. This eye catching wedding gown is completed with a long cathedral train to leave you feeling like nothing less than royalty on the big day.

Empire Silhouette with Spaghetti Straps

This lovely gown from the Galina collection represents yet another figure flattering dress that will let your beauty shine on your wedding day. This lovely piece is designed with an empire silhouette, set apart from other styles by its high waistline and gracefully flared skirt beneath.

This truly elegant high end wedding gown has a beautiful ruched bodice supported by spaghetti straps. The classic yet eye catching bodice draws the eye upward while the loosely flared skirt hides the lower portion of the body while suggesting an hour glass figure.

The chiffon gown features a unique and distinctive burnout floral pattern. The burnout process leaves a pattern in a gown's backing pattern that shows through for a subtle effect. This lovely dress's look is finished off by a somewhat contemporary sweep train that just touches the floor.

Tea-Length Strapless Taffeta Dress

If you are searching for a less formal wedding dress than the predominant offers on the market, this gown from the Galina collection offers a smart and sexy alternative. The dress combines modern styling sensibilities with the best snappy elements of 1930's era tailoring.

This dress, which extends to the knees has an hourglass suggesting shape that celebrates your body's natural curves, can be sported with the included glamorous shrug that lets you keep your shoulders covered while complementing the gown. Executed in luxurious draped taffeta, this beautiful dress extends to the knees at the bottom edge and ends in a modest strapless neckline at the top.

Lace-Up Ball Gown with Ruffled Skirt

Finally, brides to be who want to pull out all the stops with a simply ravishing style wedding gown would be well advised to check out this impressive dress. This lovely and elegant number is marked by a number of appealing features that put the focus on the best parts of your figure.

The ball gown style satin dress is adorned with a cuffed strapless neckline which draws the eye upward and is balanced in the back by its classic lace up closure with a tasteful bow at the bottom. The cuff is available in a variety of colors, for brides who prefer a bit more self expression in their dress. The gown's large ruffled skirt finishes the look and complements the subtle sweep train.

Regardless of your body type, you can find an incredible wedding gown that will emphasize your natural beauty so that you can focus on more important things on your wedding day.

Peter McMichaels is a freelance writer who writes about a range of topics including wedding fashion such as plus size wedding dresses.

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Green Purple Yellow Glitter Mask Mardi Gras Masquerade Review

Green Purple Yellow Glitter Mask Mardi Gras Masquerade Feature

• Green Purple Yellow Glitter Mask Mardi Gras Masquerade
• Approximate width with feather(from left to right) about 11" (28cm)
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These Brand new beautiful Feather Mask is great for all the special occasions like Mardi Gras, Halloween Party, Costume Party, X'mas Party, Sports Events, Dress Up, Masquerade Party, Halloween, New Years, Christmas, Glamour, Photographer Prop, Dance Recital, Wedding and all kind of occasions.


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Update Post: Dec 28, 2010 20:10:21

Themed Parties

When ever we say Fun, Somewhere in our heart says Party. Parties are always fun, we meet new people, we make new friends and important of all we feel alive. People of all ages love them. Especially in these days when everyone is so busy that friends, brothers, sisters and even husband and wife have no time for each other; Parties play a great role in keeping us social. Now, to have more fun in them People have introduced Theme Parties. A theme party can be defined as a party which is arranged according to a specific theme of movie, Early 60's, Future or any Idea of the Person who is arranging it. The decor, food, service, crockery and even People's dresses are according to the theme.

Firstly, These Parties were arranged in only Western countries but now they have become fashion in Asia as well. Theme Parties also help the marriage couples to look extra special in their dresses on their marriage day. If bride is wearing red dress and groom is wearing Black Dress so they just have to set a theme that all Men & women should wear white dresses. In this way marrying couple will be the one looking different among all.

Real fun in it is that we can dress up like a cartoon or we can wear a ripped up shirt in a movie theme and people will think that you are wearing a costume of messed up character and people will praise your messed up shirt which you don't like wearing as a nightshirt. Another fun that we have in theme parties is games that we play in the party. Teens usually attend these parties for these games. Phantom Theme parties are also famous these days especially among teens. In it they just have to wear a mask with their formal dress and the fun is that nobody knows who is behind the Mask. So Teen enjoys being hidden behind the mask and flirting girls.

Usually Children enjoy theme parties the most. They like it at their birthday and at schools. Children mostly select themes of Super Hero Cartoon Series and dress up like their favorite super hero and enjoy the party most with their other friends which also dresses up like other characters of the series. They play their roles in their own created stories and have fun.

The only Problem in arranging a themed party is expenses. It cost the host far more than normal. Not only has the host, everyone who is going to attend it had to be prepared for it. But we can arrange a cheap theme party just by planning a little. For example, we can arrange an Arabian night theme by just using some carpets, cushions and some old lamps. We just have to arrange carpets, Cushions and lamps in the manner that the room should look like Arabian tent and then serve the food in silver dishes.

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Venetian Style Mask with Feather in White & Silver Pattern by H-M Shop Review

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# This luxurious mask is made to be worn all night showing elegance and richness in a beautiful design# Masquerade Mask created with comfort and style in mind in the same style perfected by Venetian artisans over the last few centuries# Perfect for a Halloween, Masquerade, Mardi Gras, Prom or New Years Costume Party# With white feather decoration# Silver floral pattern with white shadeAlso available in other colors, please see our inventory.


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Update Post: Dec 25, 2010 07:30:29

Check Out Red Venetian Style Lady wearable Mask by H-M Shop

Red Venetian Style Lady wearable Mask by H-M Shop Review

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# This luxurious mask is made to be worn all night showing elegance and richness in a beautiful design# Masquerade Mask created with comfort and style in mind in the same style perfected by Venetian artisans over the last few centuries# Perfect for a Halloween, Masquerade, Mardi Gras, Prom or New Years Costume Party


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Update Post: Dec 24, 2010 01:21:51

How to Host a Masquerade Party

A masquerade party can be a really fun event to throw for your friends and acquaintances. It is especially a good idea if you have multiple circles of friends that don't know each other. The party can be a mysterious gathering of unknown personalities hiding behind their disguises!

Choose a theme
The first step to throw a masquerade party is choosing your theme. You can be very broad or very specific. It may be a good idea to choose a classy theme like 15th century nobility since it is rooted in the history of masquerades. However, almost any theme is acceptable except for one that would lead to scary costumes--then you're leaning into a regular costume party which isn't the intent.

Set the Ground Rules
It is important to inform your guests what the rules are for your masquerade party. Some invitees might not familiar with the idea of a masquerade, so make sure to pretend like they only have the most basic level of knowledge. Make masquerade masks and/or matching costumes mandatory. It is usually a good idea to let guests know that frightening masks will not be allowed.

A fun rule is that all masks have to be hand made. This makes the attendees much more excited about the party because they get to show off their hard work. Make sure you know your audience though, as some people don't have the time to make a really nice mask design.

Make Your Costume
Once the party is setup, you need to choose a mask and costume for yourself. Your disguise is especially important, because people will expect it to be one of the best. The host should contend for best dressed. If you're not willing to make the effort for your own costume and mask, how can you expect your guests to take the party seriously?

Get started with your party planning immediately. Don't forget the little details like light party decorations, music, and finger foods. It's the details that make a masquerade memorable.

Read more about how to throw a great Masquerade Party, including how to make or choose your own masquerade masks.

Masquerade Masks Parties

If you are starting notice masquerade masks appearing more and more around the place, that is because they are. Your eyes are not deceiving you. Their popularity is on the increase and they are starting to show up in movies, video clips and novels as main plots. There is something to be said for the mystery surrounding them and the wearer that seems to intrigue us and draw us in.

If you are wanting to know of ways where you can take advantage of their new found popularity, then I have some suggestions for you. The biggest craze right now, if you could call it that, is the prom. I guess we can call it that if we are talking about teens.

For teens, having something to remember their high school years is very important. For others it is not that important and the prom itself will be the highlight and this is why it is very important to have something special and amazing and different. Everyone wearing masquerade masks will surely do that for a prom night.

If you are over the age of prom nights then you want other reasons to wear them. I have heard of wedding celebrations being carried out in masks like these (with the identity of the bride and groom confirmed beforehand of course) but this may be a bit far fetched for some.

You may be looking for a special way to celebrate a birthday or other type of anniversary, or maybe you just need an excuse for a party. Having something other than a plain old party will surely make it something to remember for many years to come. It will also ensure that more people are willing to accept the invitation. Having to find a mask and then the outfit (or the other way around) and then dressing up to go to the party is always a lot of fun. Turning up and having everyone guessing is also a lot of fun and some pretty interesting things can result.

If you need more reason to get yourself a masquerade masks or have a party with that theme other than: party to remember, fun, dress ups, social status, mystery, spontaneous acts, then why are you having a party at all.

Make the most of your life and have a party and invite all your friends. Doing something different is always fun for everyone.

There is more information about the history of masquerade masks available to you. Visit this site if you want to know more about prom masquerade masks.

We All Wear Masks

The keynote speaker at one seminar I attended made this statement - "We all wear masks". As I pondered on what possible meanings that statement might have, I realised that this is a general summation of humanity. Regardless of whom we are and at different times in our lives, we all wear masks.

What, then, is a mask? Generally speaking, a mask is a covering for the face. It is a covering for part, or all, of the face, worn to conceal a person's identity. It is a grotesque or humorous face worn at carnivals, masquerades, etc. Anything that disguises or conceals (e.g. pretense), is a mask. A person might be hurting badly, and conceal it with a great big smile - Masks! Psychologists say that if a person tells you several times during a conversation "I'm not lying", he usually is lying. Masks!Lots of people have different masks for different days, and perhaps different occasions. Masks are those things that allow us to assume that we are different from other people.

I read an article in Psychology Today titled "The Truth About Lying" written by Peter Doskoch. In it, Peter quoted a study of psychologist and lying expert Bella DePaulo, Ph.D, who had carried out research and concluded that "occasionally a person will insist that he or she can be entirely truthful for three or four weeks. But no one ever succeeds." "Everyday lies are really part of the fabric of social life," says DePaulo, a university professor. He thinks its "because people want to be accepted, and because, sometimes telling things as they actually are, can be damaging to people's hearts and relationships, so people stretch the truth a little, some more often that others." The problem arises though, when the liar starts believing that he is telling the truth. He becomes seriously deluded, while people around him, except him, can see that he is being untruthful, and perhaps, crafty. Usually, it wont be very long before the majority of people discover the masks. While some lies damage relationships and destroy trust, other fibs fulfil important interpersonal functions, like smoothing over awkward situations or protecting fragile egos.

But how often do people lie, and when do they do it? DePaulo and colleagues asked 77 college students and 70 community members to keep a diary detailing each lie THEY told. The students, it turned out, admitted to lying, an average of twice a day, while local residents lied half as often. Among the study's other findings:

* Community members lied in one-fifth of their social interactions; students, one-third. * Lying was more common in phone calls than in face-to-face chats. * One lie in seven was discovered--as far as the liars could tell. * A tenth of the lies were merely exaggerations, while 60 percent were outright deceptions. Most of the rest were subtle lies, often of omission. * More than 70 percent of liars would tell their lies again.

No one has ever succeeded in telling the absolute truth for three weeks in a row!!! What is it then, that makes lying an attraction, a possibility, or indeed, such a part (or fabric) of social interactions? Wondering about this, I asked a friend from Cork in Ireland.

Everyone operates under Maslow's general pyramid of needs. Masks, therefore, would fall under the need for social acceptance. Maslow postulated that after we are fed, watered, and housed, the need to be socially accepted becomes an urgent basic need. This means that a hungry helpless vagrant does not give a two-penny piece whether you accept him or not. He does not have two pennies to rub together (as the Irish would say). He will eat the crumbs from your table, if you're not too stingy to let any fall. He will sleep in your dog kennel, if your dog is that friendly. He couldn't give hoot who is looking or laughing, as long as he can have something (anything) in his belly, and a corridor to rest his head.

But, why is there the need to be socially accepted? Mask wearing is a social disguise, used effectively by everyone, except the hungry and the destitute. People wear masks to conceal their true identity, to conceal their true emotions, their true feelings. Some people have fixated false smiles, that look like photocopies on their faces. The smiles are perpetual, it makes you wonder if the people are really that nice. Masks are worn to gain or secure friendships. In these, we all wear masks. Sometimes, mask wearing becomes a necessity because you don't want to tell people the truth about themselves, or yourself. In the books of society's mask wearers (who are usually pompous and arrogant), it's usually a dog eat dog world. When people become afraid to really be themselves around you, you force them to wear masks. Lots of people go to great lengths to secure social acceptance for various reasons, damaging other people's psyche, hearts, emotions and lives in the process, not caring whose ox is gored, swapping their "Jack-the-lad" mask, for giant blood-sucking "Dracula" masks.

While discussing people's masks with my very close friend, Richie Dayo Johnson, here's what he said. "Well, if you ask me, I would say, let the dogs eat the dogs in their own world! Stay far away from those who want to tell you where to jump off, and keep running till you find those who will tell you where to jump on!" Even clowns and masquerades who wear masks professionally, have to take them off sometime. If you constantly find yourself around people who want to have you for breakfast, lunch and dinner, keep running, until you reach those who will applaud you. There is that, in everyone, that needs to be celebrated. No one should be made to wear their masks perpetually.

Regardless of who is taking notes, share jokes with yourself, and laugh out loud until it hurts. Pick a time to laugh, or smile, even in public. Regularly search for something funny about yourself, and laugh at it. When someone tells a joke at your expense, see the funny side of it, and laugh. His job is to laugh at you and to expand your fault. His job is done. Find someone who can help you fix the fault, and go fix it.

Keep learning, and keep improving. Nothing we are today came to us in one day. Nothing we have learned came to us from birth. I first heard from Dayo that we are all born with two fears - the fear of falling, and the fear from loud bangs. Every other fear we picked up along the way growing up. Everything has been learned and progressed over time. Nobody has the power or ability to change anybody, except they feel a need, and chose to change by themselves. We are who we were made. Don't wear other people's masks. You don't know what their pain is or who they are trying to impress. A mask is worn by a masquerade - you don't know which face they have on. Enjoy the person you were made, regardless of who is watching.

Yinka Dixon-Oludaiye is a Motivational Speaker, Life & Business Coach, Trainer, Journalist, and Writer. A living proof that anyone can rise from a severe lack of confidence, find their voice, and then succeed at being an inspiration to others. Having emerged emotionally and spiritually stronger from matrimonial abuse, Yinka now conducts one-to-one and group sessions for individuals and businesses, especially women in business, helping them to set and achieve goals, and high levels of peak performance.

Through workshops and seminars, Yinka conducts interactive sessions that motivate and encourage individuals and businesses passing through various challenges. 'Yinka is a visionary, team leader, counsellor, exhorter, and encourager. Yinka strongly believes that everyone can overcome challenges by developing, cultivating and maintaining positive attitudes. Her life's motivation lies in her ability to discover, appreciate and develop the skills and abilities of others. Yinka Dixon is presently based in Europe, and works as a Life and Business Coach, Motivational Speaker, and Trainer.

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Update Post: Dec 19, 2010 02:50:36

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Bandit Masquerade Costume Diamond Eye Mask Review

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• Bandit Masquerade Costume Diamond Eye Mask
• Std Size Adult
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Update Post: Dec 18, 2010 01:50:06

Evening Wedding Themes

Evening weddings have a special appeal all their own. After dark, you can really pull out all the stops when it comes to glamor, sophistication, and even entertainment. These are some ideas for spectacular evening wedding themes.

Casino Night. If you want your wedding to have an emphasis on fun and glamor, consider a casino theme. Base your wedding design around the sophisticated style of an upscale casino in Monte Carlo or one of the palaces in Las Vegas, all with a bit of retro flair. Crystal chandeliers, gold chargers, and heavy cut crystal glasses are the order of the day. For the bride, a slinky beaded sheath dress with dramatic crystal chandelier earrings would be fabulous, and the bridesmaids can be equally glamorous in satin column dresses with crystal bridesmaid jewelry. Naturally, the high point of the reception will be the gaming; bring in professionals to run games like roulette and blackjack after dinner. Chances are that real gambling for money would be illegal, so let your guests play for chips and pride.

Starry Night. Picture a clear ceiling tent under a mass of twinkling stars for your wedding reception. This would create a spectacular place in which to celebrate your wedding. If you cannot conjure up real stars, drape midnight blue fabric over the ceiling of your venue and light it with thousands of tiny twinkling white lights. Play up the star theme in subtle ways throughout your wedding, such as using pierced votive candle holders which have tiny star shapes. A wedding cake painted to resemble Van Gogh's famous "Starry Night" painting would be a real show stopper.

masquerade. This is a particularly fun theme for a wedding on New Year's Eve. Instead of standard wedding favors, give each guest a beautiful handmade mask to wear for dancing after the reception. You can take your inspiration from the lavish masks which are made in Venice, Italy or the flamboyant purple, gold, and green masks which are a huge part of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The perfect bridal gown for the masquerade theme would be a lavishly embroidered and beaded strapless ballgown, worn with opulent wedding jewelry, and of course, a custom white feather and crystal mask. For the bridesmaids, jewel tone dresses would be fabulous; add crystal bridesmaid jewelry in coordinating colors and vibrant peacock feather masks for dancing. One thing is for sure: you will get some fantastic wedding photos!

Retro Cocktail Party. This is a super fun and chic theme for an evening wedding. Instead of a full dinner, invite your guests to a cocktail reception based on the classic cocktail parties which were such a huge part of sophisticated entertaining in the 1950s and 1960s. Serve heavy appetizers along with vintage cocktails like Manhattans and Martinis, as well as a full bar. While your bar bill might be on the high side, you will save huge by having all appetizers instead of a cocktail hour followed by a seated dinner. Play the music of the Rat Pack, break out cocktail shakers, and set up a divine lounge area with rented mid-century furniture. The retro cocktail party is a wedding theme that is sure to be a hit!

Let your imagination be your guide and you will find the perfect theme for your evening wedding. Whatever you choose, be sure that it is stylish and sophisticated, and your wedding will be memorable and a lot of fun!

Ask Bridget for advice in areas of jewelry or weddings. She writes numerous articles providing information for the customers of http://silverlandjewelry.com/. We are pleased to offer free crystal samples for color matching our beautiful crystal bridesmaid jewelry. Order today and receive complimentary shipping on any jewelry order over $99.

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Update Post: Dec 14, 2010 20:50:40

Masquerade Theme Party

The masquerade theme party originated in 15th century Venice amongst the upper classes. It has now become a world wide phenomenon. The principal behind the masquerade theme party is that you would hide your identity behind a mask. It is important that nobody knows who you are for the party to have the proper effect. You will be amazed at what you can get away with when nobody knows your identity. Take a look at these masquerade theme party tips:

1. This party is an opportunity to wear the most flamboyant costume imaginable! Make sure you have an elaborate mask! Perhaps you can have a public unveiling at midnight?

2. Hire a professional photographer and have him take photos of your guests by a backdrop at the entrance. He can take many photos of your guests throughout the night.

3. Dim the lights and spread plenty of candles throughout the party room. Try and create an aura of mystery and suspense.

4. If you have a good budget, or you are charging the masquerade theme party to the company, consider hiring a string quartet. This would make the most suitable music for the occasion and create a memorable atmosphere your guests will never forget.

5. This is a grand occasion and the food should reflect this. Have name holders for the guests at the table. Fine china and candle light. If you're on a budget, then finger foods will suffice. Go for Venetian or Italian whichever you go for.

6. For drink have champagne or wine in your best crystal glasses.

We have many more ideas to make your Masquerade Theme Party enjoyable and memorable. Or perhaps you could consider some other Themed Party Ideas?

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Gold Venetian Masquerade Mask Review

Gold Venetian Masquerade Mask Feature

• The mask fits an average adult face, secures with ribbon ties, and is approximately 11 inches tall.
• A gold velvet hat attaches atop the mask and is adorned with delicate sheer ribbon curls and gold cord edges for an elegant finish.
• Beautiful crme face detailed with red and gold brocading and accented with gold cord edges.

Gold Venetian Masquerade Mask Overview

The perfect addition to your masquerade costume, the Venetian Mask has a beautiful crme face detailed with red and gold brocading and accented with gold cord edges. A gold velvet hat attaches atop the mask and is adorned with delicate sheer ribbon curls and gold cord edges for an elegant finish. Mask is also available in a Black theme. The mask fits an average adult face, secures with ribbon ties, and is approximately 11 inches tall.


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Update Post: Dec 09, 2010 12:20:33

Games for a Sweet Sixteen Party

Games for a Sweet Sixteen year old party can be fun and entertaining. Games are an excellent way to break the ice and help your daughter's guests get to know her and the others a little bit better. They'll all have fun at the same time too while they're giggling, laughing or trying to beat the other team!

Ideas for Games for a Sweet Sixteen Party

Charades

A classic game, yes, but you can tailor it to fit the teens attending the party. Make up your own version of charades before the guests arrive. Write several topic ideas on index cards - ones that teenagers would take an interest in and want to act out. Include popular music, movies, television shows, books, and Hollywood stars if that fits your crowd. The guests are separated into two teams. One person from each team has to draw an index card and act out what is on the card in traditional charade style - with no words! Have prizes for the team that wins the most rounds.

Fashion Fun

Head to garage sales and thrift stores and find inexpensive dress up clothes and silly or outrageous accessories. Ask friends and family if they have items they would be willing to donate too. The object of the game is to see which one of your daughter's friends can create the most interesting and fun outfit. Ask each girl to "walk the runway", snap photos, and judge the outfits. You may want to ask a family member to be the judge ahead of time. Decide how many winners and runners-up there will be and have prizes for the winners.

Scavenger Hunt

Who doesn't love a good scavenger hunt? Teenagers are no different! Tailor a scavenger hunt to their interests and make it interesting. You could set up clues throughout the house, in the yard, or even a different setting like the mall or park. Whoever finds the "prize" at the end of the hunt wins!

Themed Games

Create games that go with your overall theme of the party. For example, if you're hosting an indoor party with a masquerade ball theme, the games should match that theme. Perhaps a fashion show, costume contest, or guess who is behind the mask. For an outdoor party, try traditional fun games like the limbo, hula-hoops, or even the relatively new game, corn hole.

Karaoke

Come up with categories for prizes such as most outrageous, silliest, most creative, and the like. You'll need a karaoke machine or CD player. Each girl lip syncs or acts out a song and prizes are awarded based on how they do!

Games for a Sweet Sixteen year old party don't have to be complicated, just engaging and fun. Just think of the things your girl would like to do and you'll figure out which games are the best fit for your daughter's party.

While you are planning your sweet 16 party, consider decorating with pink, purple or clear mini lights. You can find them online all year - they will definitely add sparkle to your daughter's special night.

Shellie Gardner, owner of http://www.christmas-light-source.com, has a passion for Christmas lighting and enjoys helping customers make every occasion special with lights. With more than 500 different light sets and bulbs to choose from, check out her website to find one of the widest varieties of LED and traditional Christmas lights and installation hardware available on the web.

Halloween Costume Party! Try Your Local Newspaper for Ideas!

I've just been invited to a Halloween costume party. Where do I start? Hmmm...A great source might be my local newspaper (or the internet news like CNN or MSNBC).

Why?

Because not all costumes are Pirates, or Sexy Witches or one of the multitude of super heroes. Some of the best costumes originate with your own creativity.

Remember 'Octomom' from a year or so back? All it took was a maternity dress and eight dolls and you had a topical, unique and humorous costume. It started with the media and ended up with your imagination at work.

As I peruse today's newspaper, let me see what ideas arise from the news. Today's front page reports on the Mexican mudslide; and although it was a tragedy; it reminds me that I can wear a costume that represents the garb from a foreign country. A Sari, a serape and sombrero, kilts and a bagpipe (props are helpful, too) or a pair of lederhosen and a beer stein.

And there is a story about President Obama. I know they sell masks of the President (and many Presidents before him) at my local costume shop. And I can buy one of Michelle, as well, for my lady friend.

Further back in the front section is a story about Toys R Us. That opens a lot of possibilities such as a Rag Doll, or a cowboy, or a robot or a futuristic astronaut. Do a couple of those sound like they are characters from a movie? These ideas came from a news story.

And what's in the next section of the paper?

Local news can take many forms, but among today's stories featured the police and fire departments. That might open the possibility of occupational and career costumes such as policemen, firemen, doctors, nurses, construction workers, soldiers and sailors.

Our third section is the Sports pages and the classifieds. Frankly, because of the proliferation of athletic shirts and caps, a costume might be conjured up. But is a costume a costume if it is everyday wear?

And finally, the Art and Recreation section. The comic strips alone will open up many possibilities. Do you want to be Blondie, the cartoon character? Do you want to be Blondie, the singer? Perhaps a soldier like Beetle Bailey or a Viking like Hagar the Horrible?

The very last page features celebrities, both famous and the infamous. Do you want to spoof Paris Hilton or Lindsey Lohan? Willie Nelson or Nelson Mandela? Johnny Depp or Brad Pitt or perhaps a role they played?

This exercise is all about letting your creative juices flow and gush forth.

As for my Halloween costume, I'll wait and see what tomorrows newspaper will bring.

The author, Russ, is a longtime owner and operator of a theatrical, masquerade and Halloween costume shop. He presently is the owner-manager-chief bottle washer of a costume informational and education blogsite. For Halloween costume ideas, visit: http://www.costumescostumescostumes.net

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SILVER BROCADE VENETIAN MASQUERADE COSTUME MASK Review

SILVER BROCADE VENETIAN MASQUERADE COSTUME MASK Feature

• Mask measures 6 inches from top to bottom of front, at widest point. Measures 10 inches side to side when flat. Extremely eye-catching and elegant.
• Mask is completely covered in silver textured brocade fabric.
• A beautiful flared sideways bow is accented with a jeweled applique.
• The eyes and the mask are trimmed in silver.
• Mask securely ties on with black ribbons. (LD M00176)

SILVER BROCADE VENETIAN MASQUERADE COSTUME MASK Overview

Ultra glamorous and intriguing, this Venetian style mask will make you the Belle of the Ball.

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Update Post: Dec 06, 2010 04:20:21

Make Your Own Halloween Masks

With Halloween right around the corner, specialty stores are stocking their shelves with costumes and masks for adults and children. This year, instead of spending money on buying Halloween masks which your child will likely rip or lose by the end of the evening, why don't you considering making homemade Halloween masks? Put on your creative hat and get cracking because here is an easy method for creating Halloween masks for your little trick-or-treater.

The Supplies
Large paper bag (such as from a supermarket)
Colored construction paper
Black marker
Pencil
Scissors
Glue
Miscellaneous decorations (depending on the theme of mask)

The Process

Step 1
The first step is to make sure that the Halloween masks fit the faces of the people who are going to wear them. If you are creating one for your child, start by gently pulling the paper bag over your child's face and press it against his features. Make note of where his eyes, nose, and mouth are by lightly marking their outline on the bag in pencil.

Step 2
The next step for making Halloween masks is to use scissors to cut out the areas where the eyes, nose, and mouth should be, as per the markings you made earlier. If necessary, fold the paper to help you create symmetrical shapes when cutting. Don't press down too firmly though as you will create a noticeable crease on the mask.

Step 3
Pick a design. Does your child want to be a specific character? An animal? A goblin? Use the black marker and miscellaneous decorations to add the appropriate details. Create contrasting color patterns and other features using the colored construction paper.

Step 4
If you use glue to attach any materials, leave the mask in a place to dry where it will not be disturbed. After all your hard work you want to make sure the mask is in good shape for the main event.

Step 5
Come October 31, put on your Halloween masks and go trick-or-treating!

You can turn any home into a haunted house for Halloween by adding the right Halloween decorations. Here are simple do-it-yourself suggestions for Halloween decorations that you, your family, and the neighbors will enjoy this fall.

Paul Banas is a founder of GreatDad.com. Discuss about planning a baby, holiday ideas, raising kids, child development and other parenting related topics at his Fathers Forum

How to Make Your Masquerade Ball Prom Unique!

masquerade balls have always been very popular events that people of all ages enjoy going to and participating in, and especially in 2009 the masquerade ball prom theme was extremely popular and one of the biggest themes for prom of the year.  This year in 2010, the masquerade prom theme is sure to be huge once again, maybe even bigger than last year, and so in this article I would like to share some great tips with you that will help you to make sure that you do it right, and make sure that your masquerade prom is unique, special, and a gigantic hit!

The first thing that you absolutely must do if you wish to make your masquerade prom a unique event that stands out from the other proms out there is to make sure that you choose the best quality and most comfortable masks that you possibly can.  The way that you can guarantee that your masks are beautiful, comfortable, and look amazing is to choose a company with a great reputation that sells handmade fabric masquerade masks.  These masks will be made with a thick, yet comfortable fabric material, not plastic or paper mache, and they will be decorated by hand in the USA with only the finest materials like feathers, trims, jewels and paints.  Trust me, you will know them when you see them, because the high quality look of them will be obvious!

Also, if you want your masquerade ball prom to be unique and special, carefully choose the decor and atmosphere of the party to match the masks and outfits of the guests.  The best masquerade ball proms have a matching color scheme for the venue, the guests, and their outfits and masks.  When everybody matches and their masks look amazing, along with the atmosphere of the prom, you have a great combination that is sure to be a night that no one will forget!

Put alot of thought into the details of your masquerade ball prom and your prom masks, because this is the best way to ensure that it is a big success.  Follow these tips, and you will have a memorable night that will be unique, entertaining and fun for everybody there!

Samantha Crowley is a masquerade masks expert who has years of experience in the masquerade prom business. Click the links to check out her amazing selection of superior quality masquerade prom masks that will make sure that you impress on your special night!

Masquerade Party Masks and Their History

These are more than just something for Mardi gras, masquerade party masks can liven up any social gathering. The most elegant and beautiful is the masquerade party with full length costumes.

This type of party started sometime in the 15th century. The masquerade party masks starting appearing at social gatherings and then at the festivities surrounding Carnival. They soon were being used in pageants, weddings and any other celebration where the host felt it was appropriate.

The following century saw the joining of the masquerade masks with full costumes. This was mostly during the Italian renaissance were the upper class were able to hid their identities from each other in a unique but formal way.

During the 17th and 18th century the masquerade party masks were sources of not only fun at parties but also tragedy. The famous opera Gustave III is a prime example of this. This is a true story of the assassination of Gustav III of Sweden while attending a masquerade ball wearing an elaborate masquerade mask.

In the beginning masquerade masks were simple yet beautiful. They have evolved into gorgeous masks adorn with beads and feathers that can either totally hide the identity of the person wearing it to just being masks on a stick for a mild cover for the eyes.

Some are beautifully handcrafted pieces of art that are made in a wide variety of themes that can fit a special occasion. Others are massed produced but still have a simple elegance to them. The hard thing is to know where to buy a masquerade party mask that will fit that special ball or occasion where that special look is needed.

There are those specialty shops that have expanded to the internet that can help you not only decide but can offer a great deal when it comes time for you to choose that special masks for your private or public event. The colors that masks can come in are silver, gold, red, white, black and pink to name a few.

Whether the mask is for a man or a woman the right one can be found so your masquerade party mask will make you the star of the event.

Samantha Crowley is an expert on masquerade party masks with many years of experience in the industry. Click the links to see her wonderful collection of masquerade feather masks!