I get quite a few emails from brides-to-be, asking me which flowers would be good to use at their weddings, flowers that won’t make them or their bridesmaids start sneezing and sniffling right in the middle of the wedding. I get enough of these requests that I thought that the subject warranted its own article.
Wedding flowers
First, flowers for a wedding ought to be bright, fun, cheerful, festive flowers. For example, I like “glads,” gladiolas, but I see them used at funerals all too often, so they seem out of place at a fun affair like a wedding.
The one thing you don’t want with wedding flowers is pollen! With wedding flowers very little pollen is good, and no pollen at all is by far the best.
Daises: For starters I would avoid using most of the daisy-related type flowers, daisies, gerbera, chrysanthemums, asters, dahlias, and sunflowers unless you know they're pollen-free ones. There actually are quite a few chrysanthemums, dahlias and asters that are called formal doubles and that have no pollen. All of these formal doubled flowers will be ones with a very high number of petals per flower. What has happened with these flowers is that they have been hybridized so often that the pollen parts (the stamens) have turned into parts that now look more like petals (staminoids). All true formal double flowers will be pollen free.
Goldenrod flowers (bright yellow) are often used as fillers in arrangements and goldenrod is a daisy-ragweed relative and will shed plenty of allergenic pollen. Don’t use goldenrod!
Baby’s breath is a popular wedding flower, again, often used as filler between other larger flowers. Baby’s breath is grown and sold as single or double flowered. If you use baby's breath, use only the doubled flowered types.
Roses: Florist type hybrid tea roses that are still in a closed bud stage and that are not especially fragrant are excellent choices and will shed no pollen. If using roses picked from the garden, choose only those roses with healthy green leaves, and pick roses that are still in the bud to half-open stages. Some free-flowering garden roses, such as the beautiful pale pink ‘Cecile Brunner’ roses, are always allergy-free and produce no pollen at all. The Banksia roses, which will be either yellow or white, are small, cute, come in dense sprays, and are also pollen free.
Pots of blooming hydrangeas, especially of the old-fashioned Hydrangea macrophylla type, are mostly pollen-free and are good choices to use. Pots of blooming double tuberous begonias, especially all the erect type cultivars, almost all of these are great, very large, colorful flowers and pollen-free. The fancy flowered begonias called ‘Reigers’ begonias are also pollen free and come in bright colors or white, yellow, red, salmon, and pink.
Lilies of all types can often now be purchased that are either simply pollen-free flowers, or else someone (who doesn't have allergies), can carefully remove the brown pollen-bearing anthers on the tip of each of the six stamens in each regular lily.... watch this pollen as it will also easily stain your wedding clothes, especially anything white. Lilies that have had the anthers removed will be completely pollen free. ** A caution here though: sap from any and all kinds of lilies can cause a very nasty, long-lasting itchy skin rash…certainly nothing any bride would want on her honeymoon! With this in mind, watch out for the sap of all lilies and of Alstromeria too. Also, it would not be a good idea for a bride to even carry a bouquet of lilies, certainly not if she has skin that is in the least bit sensitive. Anyone helping with the wedding would be wise not to stick their hands into the water in which the lilies have been standing, as this water will have the sap in it.
Camellias: Camellias come in bright white, red, or pink colors and few flowers are more beautiful than nice camellias, however they are not easy to buy from florists. Still, a gardener friend may have some you could use if the season is right…spring and fall. If you can find them, there are many nice fully doubled, formal double type camellias that are pollen-free. These camellias will look fabulous floating in small bowls of water on tables.
Orchids: Very few orchids cause any pollen allergies and it is now possible to buy small pots of beautiful blooming orchids at quite reasonable prices. Occasionally there is some skin rash associated with orchids, so watch any and all sap from cut flowers. Individual orchids should have their stems in small tubes of water.
Although certainly not indoor plants, pots of growing pansy, viola, and impatiens also can look terrific and they are all very low allergy potential flowering plants. In California or Florida it might be possible to get large sprays of bougainvillea flowers. These now come in many colors, including bright white. Double bougainvillea flowers will have no pollen at all, and even the more typical types of bougainvillea will shed next to no pollen. Bougainvillea flowers are good too for using around perfume sensitive people, as they have next to no smell.
Lawns: If the wedding is to be held on a lawn, or if the reception afterwards is, I'd suggest that the lawn be mowed two to three days ahead of time, and that a lawn mower with a really good grass catcher be used.

Thomas Ogren is the author of Allergy-Free Gardening, and also of, Safe Sex in the Garden. His work has been featured on National Public Radio, on CBS Evening News, on NBC, Fox, and on HGTV. For more detail on allergy free or allergy causing plants and flowers, look up allergy free gardening on www.Allegra.com
Tom Ogren’s own website is www.allergyfree-gardening.com

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Most man shave at least a few times a week because they enjoy a smooth, clean look. However, there is one by product of shaving, it leaves the surface of a man's skin sensitive and vulnerable. The pores are open and the skin has been roughed up by dragging a sharp razor across the face. Right after shaving the man will usually rinse off his face and then apply cold water in an attempt to close down the pores and then splash on some aftershave. That can be a shocking experience. Alcohol based aftershave will definitely close down those facial pores which is what causes the characteristic stinging. But that's not bad. Many men don't mind the sharp stinging, in fact they relish it because of the bracing, refreshing feeling they get. For other men, an aftershave balm, more like a lotion, is there preferred choice.

Aftershave to smooth a man's face.

If your choosing an aftershave for a man keep in mind the differences between an alcohol based and a lotion based aftershave. Alcohol based aftershave will provide a mild scent for only a short time period because the alcohol will tend to evaporate pretty quickly. While a lotion is smooth to put on it usually doesn't provide the bracing effect that some men really enjoy. Be sure and spend some time on the internet when shopping for the aftershave of your choice.

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.a1-perfume-4u.com/productpage/cologne.html

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Essential oils have been used for thousands of years, largely for medicinal purposes. Although the medical emphasis started to decline about 100 years ago, aromatherapists stayed focussed and have been studying the effect of essential oils on the body and brain for hundreds of years.

Although the cosmetic and perfume industries had become the major users of essential oils as mainstream medical interest declined, the pendulum started to swing back in 1928, when René-Maurice Cattefossé first used the term aromatherapy.
Other pioneers helped foster renewed focus on essential oils, and there is now greater interest than ever in their use for cosmetic, therapeutic and spiritual purposes.
Today's aromatherapists can call on at least 90 essential oils, which can be used either singly or combined. Naturally, in this modern age, they are cautious in their recommendations and claims - but they themselves are convinced believers.

Aromatherapy Fragranced Candles

Candle makers have recognised this renewed interest, and provide a wide range of products for those who want to combine a love of candles with an interest in aromatherapy. Obviously, the candles do not give as intense an effect as the direct application of an essential oil, but instead provide a more subtle influence.
As they burn the candles release a continuous stream of vaporized essential oils into the air, which you absorb as you breathe. First they stimulate the olfactory nerves that lead from the nose to the brain, and then they enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body.
And depending on what you want to achieve, there is probably an oil that will do just what you want it to.

The Abbreviated List

A list of 90 different oils is a bit much for a non-expert to absorb, so here is an abbreviated guide to some of the more common oils, and their associated recommendations:

1. Bergamot - extracted from a citrus fruit. Used to fight depression, and reduce stress and fatigue.
2. Chamomile - calming, refreshing, antiseptic.
3. Eucalyptus - stimulant, antiseptic. Recommended for treating coughs and colds. Used as insecticide and germicide.
4. Geranium - good for the skin, recommended for depression. Found in window boxes (particularly in Europe), it is a good household insecticide.
5. Jasmine - anti-depressant, antiseptic. Used to overcome anxiety and depression.
6. Lavender - the world's most common essential oil, used since the Middle Ages. Relaxes, calms, antiseptic.
7. Neem - extracted from an Indian tree and is used primarily in health and beauty products. Said to be anti- almost everything - antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antihistamine, among others. One of the major essential oils.
8. Neroli - derived from orange blossoms. Said to be calming and good for treating insomnia.
9. Orange - another product from the orange tree, this time pressed from the skin of the fruit. Relaxes and calms, and is often mixed with other oils.
10. Oregano - another of the majors, with just as many "antis" in its list of properties as Neem oil.
11. Rose - pricey, as all who encounter it in skincare products will know. Also an antiseptic and anti-depressant.
12. Rosemary - physical and mental stimulant, but also very relaxing at the end of a stressful day.
13. Tea Tree - derived from an Australian tree, it has a wide range of uses, and at one stage was even in military first-aid kits. Another of the major essential oils.
14. Ylang Ylang - very fragrant, relieves pain, eases anxiety, aphrodisiac.

Even Aromatherapy Soy Candles

These, and many others, are available in a wide range that includes aromatherapy soy candles. Of course, sampling this list might lead to a storage area loaded with a large variety of candles. But when it comes to aromatherapy candles, can you really have too much of a good thing?
About the Author

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Wedding ceremonies are the stuff fairy tales are made of. Marriages are made in heaven, it is said. Keeping this age-old adage in mind, a heavenly atmosphere is created at the wedding venue. Aromatic smells fill the air. Guests decked in their Sunday best walk the red carpet with wedding gifts in tow. Giving gifts on the wedding day is part of the ceremony. A gift symbolizes the good will guests have for the newly married. Through these gifts, guests wish the couple a long and happy married life. Naturally, when wedding gifts are purchased the most important thing that one keeps in mind is their durability. It is usually felt that a wedding gifts should make a lasting impression.
Everyone wants to make a lasting impression. Here is how:


# FOR THE BRIDE: Jewelry is on the top of the list for wedding gifts for the bride. Simple yet elegant pieces will ensure surprise and fascination when your gift is opened. You can select from pendants, chains, necklaces, bracelets, brooch pins, hairpins and earrings.

# Gift accessories include exquisite evening bags, tote bags, handbags and clutch bags. Evening gowns and formal dresses are ideal clothing items.

# Jewelry boxes, perfumes, make-up kits and bags are among other gift articles.

# Diamonds are considered to be the ideal gift grooms can give their respective brides. Otherwise any of the above mentioned items would be considered worthy enough.

# FOR THE GROOM: Formal gifts include ties, tiepins, cufflinks (gold, silver or diamond studded ones), wristwatch and pocket watch among others. Suits and shirts are formal wear that can be given as gifts.

# Informal gifts include golf club sets, baseball sets or musical instruments like guitar.

# FOR BOTH BRIDE AND GROOM: Gift articles for both the bride and groom can include funny and naughty items. However, such gifts can be given only by those who know both of bride and groom from close quarters. Otherwise such gifts can be deemed impolite. The list includes ‘just married’ goggles, T-shirts, hats, caps, flip-flops and toilet paper (!). Naughty gifts can include wedding night kits, honeymoon kits, marriage certificates, towels and robes.

# DECORATIVE PIECES: Such gifts help the couple beautify their homes. Paintings, wall hangings and show pieces come under this category.

# PERSONILIZED GIFTS: Names or even photographs of the bride and groom can be embossed on a variety of items like pillow cases, pillows, albums, wedding plates, photo frames etc. to give a personal touch to the gifts.

# FRESH FLOWERS: Sweet smelling flowers are a natural choice for any occasion. Flowers impart joy to both the sender and receiver. To enhance the impact of the wedding gift you have selected, send some fresh flowers along with it. They are bound to catch the eye of the couple.

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Nothing turns a commonplace, ho-hum room into a radiant, inviting setting faster than the flicker of a few ordinary candles scattered strategically throughout the room. Add scented candles and you can quickly evoke childhood memories, transport your imagination to a tropical island, or infuse the room with the crisp scent of a pine forest. Aromatherapy candles add yet another dimension to the equation.

Aromatherapy candles release a small, but continuous stream of herbal and floral essential oils into the air as they burn. The chemicals in the essential oils enter your body as you breathe, and travel throughout the body, including the brain, through the bloodstream. You receive subtle benefits as the chemicals interact with your body. Don't expect to receive full healing benefits by lighting a candle, but aromatherapy candles provide the same dual benefits inherent in conventional aromatherapy in less concentrated doses: smell therapy and chemical reactions to the essential oils.

Burn aromatherapy candles to alter, enhance, and improve your state of mind while adding a touch of nature's pure perfume to your surroundings. What a pleasant, powerful quick fix to an otherwise rotten day, not to mention a less destructive alternative to downing a pint of ice cream or a pound of chocolate to chase away the blahs.

Let aromatherapy candles help set the right mood for others with whom you spend time. Your guests will only know that you have that "special something," that magical touch when it comes to hospitality.

Tips for Using Aromatherapy Candles:

Make sure that you purchase aromatherapy candles, not just scented candles. Look for labels that include "pure essential oils."

Select the right candle for the situation. The best way to ensure that you have selected the best candle to achieve your goal is to purchase a candle with labeling that reflects your desired effect.

Invigorate - Perhaps you arrive home lethargic and drained after a grueling day at work, and like so many other busy parents, your workday at home is just beginning謡ith no time for an intervening catnap. Treat yourself to a short break, and light an energizing aromatherapy candle. Invigorating candles typically contain some mixture of oils from the mint and citrus families. The mint essential oils用eppermint, spearmint, basil, and eucalyptus用rovide quick stimulation, revitalization, and an extra dose of energy. Other invigorating essential oils include cedar, rosemary, cinnamon, geranium, cassia, and vanilla.

Relax ・Sometimes a sense of accomplishment or closure leaves you wired. You know that feeling. You've finished a big project, and you're bursting at the seams with energy when you really want to kick back, relax and enjoy some quiet time. Light a stress-releasing aromatherapy candle, take a few deep breaths, and allow your mind to clear. Stress-releasing essential oils include lavender, chamomile, patchouli, geranium and rose.

Concentrate - Use aromatherapy candles to improve concentration when you need to tap into your creative powers. Nothing sparks creativity like the ability to concentrate and block mental and environmental distractions. Citrus essential oils help you to concentrate: lemon, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, and bergamot.

Add atmosphere ・You've planned a quiet evening at home with that special someone, and you've made every effort to impress. You've cooked a dinner right out of a Parisian bistro, fresh flowers grace your home, the table is set with china and linen napkins, the wine is chilling, and you've never looked better. Add the final touch with an aromatherapy candle containing some of the sensual essential oils: Ylang ylang, vanilla, neroli, rose, clary sage, sandalwood.

When using candles to add atmosphere, grouping candles together is fine, but less can be more. You're striving for natural and nonchalant: think elegant understatement, not sacrificial altar.

When you light more than one aromatherapy candle, burn candles with complementary, not competing essential oils. You don't want to burn candles with invigorating oils along with candles that contain a relaxing mixture of oils. Your body will receive mixed signals.

Why reserve your aromatherapy candles for special occasions or for company? Add an elegant touch and a little mood to your everyday life. What else can add so much pleasure with so little effort? Include aromatherapy candles in your repertoire to turn the mere ordinary into the extraordinary.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for http://www.candles-4-u.com/candle_holders.htm, http://www.candles-4-u.com/aromatherapy.htm, and http://www.candles-4-u.com/soy_candles.htm. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.

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