Monday, July 29, 2013

Monday, June 17, 2013

Sanojah's Bride Makes Her Mark


Cardiff City Fans - Young Female Leader Makes Her Mark

Bluebirds fans opposed to the controversial rebranding of their football club, have a new leader in their battle to see their traditional home colours restored.
Locally born Sian Branson - one of the founders of 'Bluebirds Unite' - addressed a meeting full of diehard Cardiff City fans last week and spoke with passion of her desire to see the return of the football clubs historic blue identity.
The thirty year old, Health and Safety Area Manager, received several loud ovations from the six hundred strong crowd, as she talked of the movement that she fronts offering "the last chance" to see the return of the clubs traditional identity and of her desire to "keep on fighting until we win."
A couple of days later, I caught up with her at her West Cardiff home.
On first spending time in Mrs Bransons company, one is immediately struck by her warmth, energy and drive, plus her unbridled enthusiasm for the cause that she is championing.
When quizzed on why a blue home shirt and club crest are so important to her, she is unequivocal, "The blue shirt and bluebird represent our city and have done for more than a century. We are a proud nation and as Wales' capital city football club we feel that to desecrate our identity is entirely wrong. It's like taking the Welsh rugby jersey and turning it purple. We feel that our identity should be equally respected. We like to think of ourselves as the Cardiff City conservation society."
I then asked how, specifically, she plans to deliver on her aims; with barely a pause, she answers, "it's going to take lots of hard work, no question about it, but we plan on holding blue themed family fun days and campaigns to encourage as many fans as possible to wear blue to matches. We're really keen to show just how much our identity means, but in a positive way."
She smiled and added, rather cryptically, "and there are one or two things 'in the pipeline,' which we think City fans are going to really enjoy..."
I push her on the final point, but to no avail. We'll just have to be patient!
So, what are her chances of success?
Well, it's pretty clear that the challenge facing 'Bluebirds Unite' is a tough one. Cardiff City's controlling shareholder Vincent Tan has vast financial resources on his side, plus, of course, he would regard his decision to re brand the club as entirely vindicated following City's recent promotion to the Premier League. He can also point to record season ticket sales following the clubs elevation to footballs top table.
That said, 'Bluebirds Unite' have certainly tapped into a more rebellious vibe that is permeating the rank and file City fans at the moment. Worries over the clubs financial future have been assuaged, somewhat, thanks to the influx of the Premier League booty. There seems to be a feeling that now is the time to speak up.
It would also appear that 'Bluebirds Unite' have 'touched a nerve' in the clubs boardroom. Shortly after last weeks successful public meeting, a prominent, locally based club director, launched a stinging attack on the organisation through an unofficial Cardiff City message board. Amongst a host of rather spurious claims, the director in question, accused the fledgling organisation of being "against the club."
Whether it was his intention or not, it certainly gave the impression that the football club was rather 'rattled.'
Following this provocation, a number of 'Bluebirds Unite' supporters initially responded 'in kind,' until Sian Branson, very sensibly, swiftly defused the situation by issuing a public statement calling on her organisations supporters to draw a line and not get involved.
A wise move from a lady who has barely put a foot wrong, thus far.

Saturday, June 8, 2013

Sanojah's Taste for Champagne Collection...understated elegance and great value for money


Featured on BRIDES CD ROM in the July/August Issue. Our Taste for Champagne Collection combines understated elegance and great value for money





IVORY TABLE SKIRTS $15.00 BDS EACH

IVORY 90 INCH ROUND TABLE LINEN $10.00 BDS EACH



                     IVORY 120 INCH ROUND TABLE LINENS $15.00 BDS EACH





IVORY 120X60 INCH ROUND TABLE LINENS $15.00 BDS EACH




IVORY STRETCH CHAIR COVERS $2.50 BDS EACH


IVORY LINEN NAPKINS $0.75 BDS EACH

Featured on BRIDES CD ROM in the July/August Issue. Our Taste for Champagne Collection combines understated elegance and great value for money.

What To Expect As An Expecting Bride

REAL TALK; REAL ISSUES; FOR REAL BRIDES WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!!

IT'S COUNT DOWN TO AVOIDING THE BRIDEZILLA MELTDOWN.

What To Expect As An Expecting Bride

You've got a lot to celebrate! Either of those life events is huge on its own, so navigating both at the same time can be tricky…but definitely doable, especially with some smart prep work. Before you walk (or adorably waddle) down the aisle, consider these tips on planning and hosting a wedding during pregnancy:

Time it right. If possible, try to get hitched in your second trimester. Your morning sickness should be gone by then (or at least eased up enough so you can face the buffet without barfing). Plus, if you get married mid-pregnancy rather than at the end, you’ll feel more like a bride than a balloon. One more timing tip: If pregnancy fatigue hits you hardest at night, shoot for a daytime event (which is likely less expensive too).

Dress the part. Even if you’re not showing when you hit the bridal shop, let the consultant know how far along you’ll be when you tie the knot. She’ll advise you on which size will be best for your belly-to-be. And don’t let that large number bug you: Wedding dresses tend to run a couple sizes bigger than regular clothing, and it’s easier to take in a too-big gown than let out a too-small one (plus, those extra inches are going toward building a beautiful baby).

While you can wear almost any style you want, baby bumps look especially elegant in an empire-waist silhouette, which is snug at the bust line and roomier in the belly. No matter which design you prefer for your wedding during pregnancy, you’ll be more comfortable in loose, light fabrics, such as chiffon and crepe. Stiff or heavy materials like satin, taffeta, and tulle can up your odds of overheating and dizziness.

As far as shoes go, you may need to pump up your pump size to a half- or even a full-size bigger than your pre-pregnancy kicks, since edema can make your feet and ankles swell. Consider skipping the high heels altogether (expectant moms aren't known for perfect balance) or at least keeping a pair of ballet flats or sandals handy as a backup. Luckily, there are lots of down-to-earth (and not at all dowdy) options out there.

Maximize that glow. Raging hormones can wreak some serious havoc on your complexion during pregnancy, but a skilled makeup artist should be able to handle whatever’s going on. So if a pro is within your budget, consider that money well spent. And while you might not be able to get a Brazilian blow-out since that and other hair treatments are off-limits right now, chances are you’ll be sporting some extra-lush locks under that veil.

Stress less. From choosing the right caterer to picking the most fabulous flowers to perfecting your seating chart, wedding planning can be pretty nerve-racking. But stress and pregnancy isn't a great combo, so consider toning down the party to something you can handle more easily. Or hire a wedding planner or ask a willing friend (or that fabulous fiance of yours) to take on some of the tougher tasks. And, to keep your cool when planning a wedding during pregnancy, make this your mantra should people push your anxiety buttons: “For my baby’s health and my own, I need to stop discussing this right now.” Who could argue with that?

Also, while pregnant brides aren't that unusual anymore, some people on your guest list may be vociferously offended that you’re expecting before the wedding. All you can do is tell them, “I’m thrilled to become a wife and mother. I hope you can share that excitement with me.” It might sting a bit if they can’t, but it’ll truly be their loss to miss out on your big day.

Celebrate smartly. Skip the champagne, but keep your water glass full since staying hydrated is important for you and your baby. (Another reason you’ll want a light, loose wedding dress: You’ll need to pee more than the average bride, and going to the bathroom in a ball gown is tough even without a baby bump.) No matter how busy you get greeting guests, don’t forget to eat. Enlighten your caterer about pregnancy-safe foods and, even if you’re queasy, be sure to eat a protein-and-complex carb snack (like cheese on whole-grain crackers) so you’ll have the energy for that first dance as a married lady — and the many to follow. Speaking of energy, take a load off every once in a while during the party — your guests will understand if you and your belly need a break between dances.

Here’s to a wonderful wedding — and a healthy baby to boot.

{CREDIT http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/ask-heidi/getting-married-while-pregnant.aspx: http://www.tiffanyrose.com/maternity/clothes/wedding-dresses.html: http://www.davidsbridal.com/Browse_Bridal-Gowns-Shop-By-Size-Maternity-Gowns:http://www.lightinthebox.com/c/maternity-wedding-dresses_2713