Online - November 05, 2004

Extended Engagement

The Wedding Guide: Part Two

The worst of it is over. Here’s the rest. Now the final stretch. On your mark, get set …

T Minus 6 Months

The Dress: Elizabeth Fillmore’s gowns are simply stunning. Not into dropping serious coin? Preownedweddingdresses.com, an eBay-like site, offers major discounts on castoffs from top-drawer designers, including Monique L’Huillier, Reem Acra, Ulla Maija, and Vera Wang.

The Paper Products: Myth is you have to do this early. In reality, it only takes five to eight weeks. Papier Moderne has an amazing range of whimsical cardstock, from hand-stiched to letterpress motifs. Just enter the text and a proof will arrive in the mail. For thank-you notes, have Photo Card Creations print a photo on cute cardstock.

T Minus 5 Months

The Maids: For dresses that can be reworn, check out Jenny Yoo. Pick the style, fabric, color, and sizes. Then fax in the order.

The Gifts: Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but ribbon-clasp pearl necklaces from turqbridal.com are a close second.

T Minus 4 Months

The Cake: Guests rarely eat the cake or take notice. Skip the frosting and go for something a little more original, like chocolate-chip cookies. Stack them on a cake stand decorated with candied flowers, and add sorbet fruit designs from St. Clair Ice Cream (who can ship anywhere in the country).

The Party Favors: Caroline’s Fortunehearts makes adorable custom favors, like tiny kites (yes, they fly) in six different color combinations, packaged in translucent envelopes. For a soundtrack to your nuptial antics, get the DJ to burn CDs and make labels from myweddinglabels.com.

T Minus 2 Months

The Lingerie: Jillian Sherry hand-painted silk bras, camis, undies, and robes are the most luxurious underpinnings. Secret messages optional.

T Minus 1 Month

The Beauty Team: Crystalicious nail kits come with beautiful, light, shimmery polishes and tiny Swarovski crystals. Since there’s no room for error, the Wedding Day Essentials Kit includes every knickknack you could need, from stain removers and double-sided tape to spare rings.

Don’t worry about coming back down to earth. There’s time for that after the honeymoon.