The holiday season, like wedding planning, is not a time most of us think of as slow down time. That hectic pace, the myriad details, the last minute changes, those wonderfully crazy things wrapped up in ribbons, all add up to joyful holiday madness. This is also the time of year that many consider the “Giving Season.”

In the spirit of that season, we direct you to the website for I Do Foundation (http://www.idofoundation.org/). In their own words, they link “engaged couples with a host of charitable giving options at their wedding.” They partner with companies to raise donations via donation registry for the couple’s charity of choice or gift registry for a percentage to be donated to charitable causes. Some partner stores include: Tiffany & Co., Crate & Barrel, JC Penney, Target, and others. See their website for a list of partnered companies and their percentages. They also have tips on wedding dress donations and ideas for those “leftovers” such as food and flowers!

If you aren’t inclined to donate through larger organizations or on a monetary level, your local charities may be seeking volunteers or donations as well. Add a “To Do” note in your wedding planning for giving from the heart. What a wonderful way to count your blessings in your new life together.

What’s in a name? Even a generation ago, the majority of brides-to-be would have wondered why you bothered to ask the question. Today’s brides (and even some grooms!) tussle with the name game.

While you’re marrying Prince Charming, it’s not simply a question of becoming known as “Mrs. Prince Charming!” Many professionals must consider how a name change will affect their careers. (After all Jennifer Aniston was still Jennifer Aniston before, during and after “the Brad.” Hmm, you didn’t see Mr. Pitt become Mr. Angelina Jolie either, but I digress.)

Even if you’re adamantly opposed to changing your name, are creating a hyphenated melding or are the one who can’t wait to be Mrs. Charming, you still need your legal ducks in row.

If you are keeping your name, be sure you are still prepared to make changes to documents like W-4’s, insurances, and other legal documents. If you are changing your name, be sure you have everything you will need for social security card and driver’s license changes, etc.

Here’s a link to an article from the Auburn Journal’s Brides 2006 (article entitled “A Bride by Any Other Name” by Penne Usher). It includes a great check list with seven steps you should be sure to take in the name game.