How to Plan a Green Wedding

Sure, green weddings are all the rage, but you'll need to go the extra mile to make yours stand apart from the rest.

Green Weddings – Things to Consider:
Simplify
The overarching theme here should be simplification. There are eco-friendly versions of most wedding products, but the best option is usually to forego the items altogether. Reuse wherever possible - and save not only resources, but cash too.

Weigh the expenses
That said, some items you just can't live without, and usually the green version is more expensive than the original. You'll need to factor this into your wedding budget. To keep your budget in check, determine which areas you're willing to spend more on for a good cause (i.e. organic cuisine), and where you can save to make up for that added expense (i.e. forego the wedding dress or favors). This wedding budget guide offers even more budgeting advice

Patronize
Many new companies have entered the growing green weddings market. Before booking your vendors, check out businesses that claim to provide green services and confirm that they really do.

Inform
One green turn deserves another. Let your guests know the steps you've taken to plan your green wedding, and show them that an elegant event doesn't have to be harmful to the environment. Who knows, many of your guests may be inspired to do the same.

All in the Details – Green Wedding Ideas
Invitations & Stationery
1. Recycle - use recycled paper or paper made from alternative fiber – such as hemp or bamboo. Check out these resources for an array of custom, recycled papers: Custompaper.com or JamPaper.com
2. Splurge on calligraphy – calligraphy may cost more, but it saves inks, toners, solvents and chemicals involved in printing.
3. Condense – save trees by minimizing inserts and other paper products. Always print on front and back, and try to fit it all on one sheet.
4. Go completely green – send all correspondence via email. The etiquette gods may swoon – but if you're dead set on being green, electronic mailings are the most earth friendly way to go.

Location
1. Rent for a cause - find a venue that will benefit from your site rental fee – such as a museum, gallery or other cultural organization. Confirm how that venue will use your fee.
2. Go outside - a beach, the woods, gardens – they all make an ideal setting for a green wedding (just be sure to leave it as you found it).
3. Find a green venue - some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water and energy, reducing waste, or serving locally grown/organic menus. Check out these resources for green minded venues:
- Green Hotels Association (www.greenhotels.com)
- Green Seal (www.greenseal.com)

Décor Elements
1. Use candlelight – not only are candles energy efficient, they also create a soft romantic glow for an elegant reception. Better yet, look for soy candles - they're cleaner and longer burning since they're made from a renewable resource.
2. Use bamboo – one of the most sustainable materials on earth, bamboo is an eco-friendly décor option with an organic, modern feel. Use bamboo stalks for centerpieces or other décor elements.

Flowers
1. Think double duty – invite your ceremony arrangements to the reception! You can use them to decorate your cake or gift table – you'll waste less and save money doing it.
2. Buy organic, locally grown blooms – organic flowers are grown in an environmentally friendly way, without pesticides.
Getting locally grown ones will save the fuel burned from transporting the flowers. If you can't find a local florist who can provide organic blooms, order yours from OrganicBouquet.com
3. Conserve cut flowers – using cut flowers just once is a waste. See if you can share yours with another wedding taking place on the same day.
4. Skip cut flowers altogether – top your tables with potted arrangements for guests to take and plant in their yards after the wedding.

Menu
1. Think organic – ensure that you, your guests and the staff won't be exposed to pesticides. Many caterers specialize in organic foods, and almost any caterer can provide an organic menu if you ask them.
2. Think local – if you're concerned about the cost involved in a completely organic menu, go local instead. Serving locally grown food eliminates fuel reliance and supports local farmers. Check out Localharvest.org or Localfoodworks.org to find farmers markets, farms and other sources of local food.
3. Reuse utensils – find a caterer who recycles materials and/or uses linen and china instead of disposables.
4. Donate the leftovers – work with your caterer to send leftovers to a food shelter or other organization.

Cake
1. Sub ingredients – have your baker use organic and/or local sugar, flour, butter and eggs. Some bakers even specialize in organic cakes.

Attire
1. Go secondhand – a used gown reduces fuels used in creating a new one.
2. Get green fibers – natural fibers like silk and organic cotton are better for the environment than synthetic ones.
3. Go couture – if your wallet can afford it, couture gowns are usually made from natural fabrics.
4. Donate – provide a green gown decision for another bride when you give or sell yours after the wedding.

Favors
Avoid wasteful trinkets - donate to a charity in the name of your guests

Transportation
1. Limit long distance travel – have the wedding in a location where few guests will have to fly to get there.
2.Walk - host your room block, ceremony and reception at the same site – or within walking distance
3. Carpool – organize car pools for your guests in hybrid vehicles
4. Getaway in low emission style – get creative and use a non-motorized vehicle for your final sendoff – bikes, horseback, sleds, skates, wagons, or any old school conveyance will do.

Other Green Ideas
The truth is – no matter how great your green intentions are, most weddings have a huge environmental impact from the fuel used transporting your guests – via car or plane – to your wedding. Since this is extremely difficult to avoid, the "greenest" brides are purchasing carbon offsets to reduce their wedding's footprint.

How it works: calculate the mileage guests will travel, and offset their carbon dioxide emissions by donating to programs that plant trees or preserve rain forests. Terra Pass is a website that does this for you – you enter your wedding details, and the site calculates your footprint, charges you accordingly, and then invests the money for you in energy saving technologies.

How to Find the Right Wedding Photographer For You

PS - If you came here from the November newsletter -
please accept our apologies - we had an incorrect link.
The article on Wedding Photos Do's and Don'ts is here

I recently had the pleasure of attending the NJ Wedding Salon and meeting several very talented wedding photographers. After talking with them, I've put together the following tips on selecting the wedding photographer that is right for you.

1. Attend Bridal Shows
There's no better way to scope out your potential wedding photographer than to meet with many in one day all under one roof. When planning my own wedding, my then fiancé and I set aside quite a few nights after work to visit and view the portfolios of potential photographers. Definitely very time consuming - had I attended one or more bridal shows - I could probably have narrowed down my selections to only a few for us to meet with again personally.

2. Find out the Photographers Style
While at the booth of Patrick Sweeney Photography, another couple mentioned that he's been known to have his couples make snow angels in the snow. I'm not sure if he literally does this - but his whole reasoning behind his method is he wants his couples to have fun. According to Patrick, "This allows you to fall into your element and be yourself." Patrick doesn't like to pose his shots and tell you when to smile. By having fun, the smiling will come naturally. Personally, I think this method is perfect. From the photos Patrick showed me, you could definitely tell that the couples were comfortable. All the shots looked very natural - but, you have to decide for yourselves if you are comfortable with this particular photography style.

3. View the Album Styles
At the show, each photographer had albums on display to give you an idea of how they look when finished. It's great to be able to see all the different options as you visit each photographers booth. There are many different album styles out there, but one that stood out to me at the NJ Wedding Salon was from Romeo Creations. They offer the option to have a one of a kind wedding album that features a handmade metal cover. The album cover images range from landscape to floral to the abstract. An absolutely stunning presentation.

4. Ask if the Photographer is Familiar with Your Wedding Location
This is a big plus because not only will you be able to see if the photographer has specific shots in mind, but you might even be able to view photos from another wedding that was held at your locale.

5. Does the Photographer Work with an Assistant?
One key question to ask is how many photographers will shoot your wedding. If only 1 photographer will be there, be sure to find out what happens should some unforeseen event occur and prevent them from being there on your wedding day. From personal experience, I can tell you this is a major question. One that I did not ask, but should have. When my husband and I got married nearly 6 years ago - our own photographer told us halfway through the reception that he wasn't feeling well and would be leaving. Luckily, he knew another photographer and told us he was on his way and would shoot the remainder of our wedding. This event was definitely not something we had expected or even thought could happen. In the end it all turned out ok, but I would not want the same thing to happen to you. After all, it's your special day. The last thing you want is a photographer that's either a no show or one that leaves early.

6. Find Out How They Develop a Relationship with Their Clients
For Rose Caballas of Insignia Studio it's important for her to continue the relationship with her couples beyond the wedding and be there when they welcome new family members or for any other special moments in the couples lives. For Joe at Romeo Creations he says that the only vendor that you still work with after the wedding is the photographer/videographer. This relationship continues for another 5-8 months after the big day. Joe says that the customer always comes first and you have to be dedicated to your customer.

7. One Last Personal Tip
One other tip I'd like to leave you with is, please be sure to have a wedding album created. After seeing all the beautiful albums at the bridal show, I wish we had more than our proof album to keep looking thru. Of course, our entire wedding was shot with film so it's definitely not as easy as having your album shot digitally. But, having a nice coffee table style wedding album is such a wonderful momento of the joyous occasion. One you will cherish forever.

Wishing you all very happy memories.

How to Plan a Green Wedding

Sure, green weddings are all the rage, but you'll need to go the extra mile to make yours stand apart from the rest.

Green Weddings – Things to Consider:
Simplify
The overarching theme here should be simplification. There are eco-friendly versions of most wedding products, but the best option is usually to forego the items altogether. Reuse wherever possible - and save not only resources, but cash too.

Weigh the expenses
That said, some items you just can't live without, and usually the green version is more expensive than the original. You'll need to factor this into your wedding budget. To keep your budget in check, determine which areas you're willing to spend more on for a good cause (i.e. organic cuisine), and where you can save to make up for that added expense (i.e. forego the wedding dress or favors). This wedding budget guide offers even more budgeting advice

Patronize
Many new companies have entered the growing green weddings market. Before booking your vendors, check out businesses that claim to provide green services and confirm that they really do.

Inform
One green turn deserves another. Let your guests know the steps you've taken to plan your green wedding, and show them that an elegant event doesn't have to be harmful to the environment. Who knows, many of your guests may be inspired to do the same.

All in the Details – Green Wedding Ideas
Invitations & Stationery
1. Recycle - use recycled paper or paper made from alternative fiber – such as hemp or bamboo. Check out these resources for an array of custom, recycled papers: Custompaper.com or JamPaper.com
2. Splurge on calligraphy – calligraphy may cost more, but it saves inks, toners, solvents and chemicals involved in printing.
3. Condense – save trees by minimizing inserts and other paper products. Always print on front and back, and try to fit it all on one sheet.
4. Go completely green – send all correspondence via email. The etiquette gods may swoon – but if you're dead set on being green, electronic mailings are the most earth friendly way to go.

Location
1. Rent for a cause - find a venue that will benefit from your site rental fee – such as a museum, gallery or other cultural organization. Confirm how that venue will use your fee.
2. Go outside - a beach, the woods, gardens – they all make an ideal setting for a green wedding (just be sure to leave it as you found it).
3. Find a green venue - some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water and energy, reducing waste, or serving locally grown/organic menus. Check out these resources for green minded venues:
- Green Hotels Association (www.greenhotels.com)
- Green Seal (www.greenseal.com)

Décor Elements
1. Use candlelight – not only are candles energy efficient, they also create a soft romantic glow for an elegant reception. Better yet, look for soy candles - they're cleaner and longer burning since they're made from a renewable resource.
2. Use bamboo – one of the most sustainable materials on earth, bamboo is an eco-friendly décor option with an organic, modern feel. Use bamboo stalks for centerpieces or other décor elements.

Flowers
1. Think double duty – invite your ceremony arrangements to the reception! You can use them to decorate your cake or gift table – you'll waste less and save money doing it.
2. Buy organic, locally grown blooms – organic flowers are grown in an environmentally friendly way, without pesticides.
Getting locally grown ones will save the fuel burned from transporting the flowers. If you can't find a local florist who can provide organic blooms, order yours from OrganicBouquet.com
3. Conserve cut flowers – using cut flowers just once is a waste. See if you can share yours with another wedding taking place on the same day.
4. Skip cut flowers altogether – top your tables with potted arrangements for guests to take and plant in their yards after the wedding.

Menu
1. Think organic – ensure that you, your guests and the staff won't be exposed to pesticides. Many caterers specialize in organic foods, and almost any caterer can provide an organic menu if you ask them.
2. Think local – if you're concerned about the cost involved in a completely organic menu, go local instead. Serving locally grown food eliminates fuel reliance and supports local farmers. Check out Localharvest.org or Localfoodworks.org to find farmers markets, farms and other sources of local food.
3. Reuse utensils – find a caterer who recycles materials and/or uses linen and china instead of disposables.
4. Donate the leftovers – work with your caterer to send leftovers to a food shelter or other organization.

Cake
1. Sub ingredients – have your baker use organic and/or local sugar, flour, butter and eggs. Some bakers even specialize in organic cakes.

Attire
1. Go secondhand – a used gown reduces fuels used in creating a new one.
2. Get green fibers – natural fibers like silk and organic cotton are better for the environment than synthetic ones.
3. Go couture – if your wallet can afford it, couture gowns are usually made from natural fabrics.
4. Donate – provide a green gown decision for another bride when you give or sell yours after the wedding.

Favors
Avoid wasteful trinkets - donate to a charity in the name of your guests

Transportation
1. Limit long distance travel – have the wedding in a location where few guests will have to fly to get there.
2.Walk - host your room block, ceremony and reception at the same site – or within walking distance
3. Carpool – organize car pools for your guests in hybrid vehicles
4. Getaway in low emission style – get creative and use a non-motorized vehicle for your final sendoff – bikes, horseback, sleds, skates, wagons, or any old school conveyance will do.

Other Green Ideas
The truth is – no matter how great your green intentions are, most weddings have a huge environmental impact from the fuel used transporting your guests – via car or plane – to your wedding. Since this is extremely difficult to avoid, the "greenest" brides are purchasing carbon offsets to reduce their wedding's footprint.

How it works: calculate the mileage guests will travel, and offset their carbon dioxide emissions by donating to programs that plant trees or preserve rain forests. Terra Pass is a website that does this for you – you enter your wedding details, and the site calculates your footprint, charges you accordingly, and then invests the money for you in energy saving technologies.

How to Find the Right Wedding Photographer For You

PS - If you came here from the November newsletter -
please accept our apologies - we had an incorrect link.
The article on Wedding Photos Do's and Don'ts is here

I recently had the pleasure of attending the NJ Wedding Salon and meeting several very talented wedding photographers. After talking with them, I've put together the following tips on selecting the wedding photographer that is right for you.

1. Attend Bridal Shows
There's no better way to scope out your potential wedding photographer than to meet with many in one day all under one roof. When planning my own wedding, my then fiancé and I set aside quite a few nights after work to visit and view the portfolios of potential photographers. Definitely very time consuming - had I attended one or more bridal shows - I could probably have narrowed down my selections to only a few for us to meet with again personally.

2. Find out the Photographers Style
While at the booth of Patrick Sweeney Photography, another couple mentioned that he's been known to have his couples make snow angels in the snow. I'm not sure if he literally does this - but his whole reasoning behind his method is he wants his couples to have fun. According to Patrick, "This allows you to fall into your element and be yourself." Patrick doesn't like to pose his shots and tell you when to smile. By having fun, the smiling will come naturally. Personally, I think this method is perfect. From the photos Patrick showed me, you could definitely tell that the couples were comfortable. All the shots looked very natural - but, you have to decide for yourselves if you are comfortable with this particular photography style.

3. View the Album Styles
At the show, each photographer had albums on display to give you an idea of how they look when finished. It's great to be able to see all the different options as you visit each photographers booth. There are many different album styles out there, but one that stood out to me at the NJ Wedding Salon was from Romeo Creations. They offer the option to have a one of a kind wedding album that features a handmade metal cover. The album cover images range from landscape to floral to the abstract. An absolutely stunning presentation.

4. Ask if the Photographer is Familiar with Your Wedding Location
This is a big plus because not only will you be able to see if the photographer has specific shots in mind, but you might even be able to view photos from another wedding that was held at your locale.

5. Does the Photographer Work with an Assistant?
One key question to ask is how many photographers will shoot your wedding. If only 1 photographer will be there, be sure to find out what happens should some unforeseen event occur and prevent them from being there on your wedding day. From personal experience, I can tell you this is a major question. One that I did not ask, but should have. When my husband and I got married nearly 6 years ago - our own photographer told us halfway through the reception that he wasn't feeling well and would be leaving. Luckily, he knew another photographer and told us he was on his way and would shoot the remainder of our wedding. This event was definitely not something we had expected or even thought could happen. In the end it all turned out ok, but I would not want the same thing to happen to you. After all, it's your special day. The last thing you want is a photographer that's either a no show or one that leaves early.

6. Find Out How They Develop a Relationship with Their Clients
For Rose Caballas of Insignia Studio it's important for her to continue the relationship with her couples beyond the wedding and be there when they welcome new family members or for any other special moments in the couples lives. For Joe at Romeo Creations he says that the only vendor that you still work with after the wedding is the photographer/videographer. This relationship continues for another 5-8 months after the big day. Joe says that the customer always comes first and you have to be dedicated to your customer.

7. One Last Personal Tip
One other tip I'd like to leave you with is, please be sure to have a wedding album created. After seeing all the beautiful albums at the bridal show, I wish we had more than our proof album to keep looking thru. Of course, our entire wedding was shot with film so it's definitely not as easy as having your album shot digitally. But, having a nice coffee table style wedding album is such a wonderful momento of the joyous occasion. One you will cherish forever.

Wishing you all very happy memories.

Dinner for 171! The Queen treats the Obamas to a state banquet... and invites a few of their Hollywood friends

Cheers! The Queen toasts the Obama's visit before they sit down to a dinner of lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte


After a long day of public appearances, President Obama and US First Lady Michelle were treated to a state banquet at Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Queen tonight.

The star-studded banquet saw 171 guests arrive, including Tom Hanks, Kevin Spacey and Tim Burton, who dined on lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte.
Also at Her Majesty’s banquet in honour of the Obamas were David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Boris Johnson.

Former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown also attended, as did Ed Miliband, Richard Branson and Helena Bonham Carter.

Hollywood actor Hanks sat next to Ffion Hague, the wife of the Foreign Secretary, while Kevin Spacey was beside Sophie, the Countess of Wessex – wife of Prince Edward.


Dinner for 171: The lavish banquet, hosted by the Queen, was to honour the Obama's state visit, and the President and First Lady posed here with the Royal couple before enjoying their meal


Michelle Obama and the Queen both wore white gowns to the event, while President Obama opted for a traditional black suit that boasted a white bow tie and matching shirt.

The First Lady accessorised her gorgeous floor-length gown with long white gloves and dangling earrings, while her hair was tied neatly up into a bun.


Ladies in white: Both Michelle Obama and the Queen opted for long white gowns on the special occassion, but luckily weren't wearing the same dress


As the Queen welcomed the Obamas, she said: ‘Today the US remains our most important ally. But our relationship goes far beyond our military ties.’

She celebrated the special relationship between the US and Great Britain and highlighted their ‘shared history, common language and strong intellectual and cultural links’, during her welcome speech.

Her Majesty said she had ‘fond memories’ of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London.

The lavish dinner was hosted in the Palace’s ballroom, where the Prince of Wales hosted the private meal for 300 on the evening of the royal wedding.


Welcome speech: Her Majesty said she had 'fond memories' of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London


Earlier in the day the Obamas had visited Number Ten after laying a wreath on the tomb of an unknown soldier at Westminster Abbey.

It is the couple’s first state visit to Britain and are staying at Buckingham Palace, instead of having to face an ordinary five star hotel.

They arrived last night after their visit to Ireland and will spend tonight and tomorrow night in the luxurious Belgian Suite of Palace, which is the same suite Prince William and Kate spent their first night as a married couple.

Despite not attending the Royal Wedding last month, the President and his wife met up with Prince William and his new bride today and talked for around 15 minutes with the newly-weds.

On the Obama’s arrival, they were greeted with a 41-gun salute alongside The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.


Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Arrives For State Banquet At Buckingham Palace





source: dailymail

Dinner for 171! The Queen treats the Obamas to a state banquet... and invites a few of their Hollywood friends

Cheers! The Queen toasts the Obama's visit before they sit down to a dinner of lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte


After a long day of public appearances, President Obama and US First Lady Michelle were treated to a state banquet at Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Queen tonight.

The star-studded banquet saw 171 guests arrive, including Tom Hanks, Kevin Spacey and Tim Burton, who dined on lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte.
Also at Her Majesty’s banquet in honour of the Obamas were David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Boris Johnson.

Former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown also attended, as did Ed Miliband, Richard Branson and Helena Bonham Carter.

Hollywood actor Hanks sat next to Ffion Hague, the wife of the Foreign Secretary, while Kevin Spacey was beside Sophie, the Countess of Wessex – wife of Prince Edward.


Dinner for 171: The lavish banquet, hosted by the Queen, was to honour the Obama's state visit, and the President and First Lady posed here with the Royal couple before enjoying their meal


Michelle Obama and the Queen both wore white gowns to the event, while President Obama opted for a traditional black suit that boasted a white bow tie and matching shirt.

The First Lady accessorised her gorgeous floor-length gown with long white gloves and dangling earrings, while her hair was tied neatly up into a bun.


Ladies in white: Both Michelle Obama and the Queen opted for long white gowns on the special occassion, but luckily weren't wearing the same dress


As the Queen welcomed the Obamas, she said: ‘Today the US remains our most important ally. But our relationship goes far beyond our military ties.’

She celebrated the special relationship between the US and Great Britain and highlighted their ‘shared history, common language and strong intellectual and cultural links’, during her welcome speech.

Her Majesty said she had ‘fond memories’ of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London.

The lavish dinner was hosted in the Palace’s ballroom, where the Prince of Wales hosted the private meal for 300 on the evening of the royal wedding.


Welcome speech: Her Majesty said she had 'fond memories' of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London


Earlier in the day the Obamas had visited Number Ten after laying a wreath on the tomb of an unknown soldier at Westminster Abbey.

It is the couple’s first state visit to Britain and are staying at Buckingham Palace, instead of having to face an ordinary five star hotel.

They arrived last night after their visit to Ireland and will spend tonight and tomorrow night in the luxurious Belgian Suite of Palace, which is the same suite Prince William and Kate spent their first night as a married couple.

Despite not attending the Royal Wedding last month, the President and his wife met up with Prince William and his new bride today and talked for around 15 minutes with the newly-weds.

On the Obama’s arrival, they were greeted with a 41-gun salute alongside The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.


Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Arrives For State Banquet At Buckingham Palace





source: dailymail

I called it off a million times... but then I thought he wanted to marry me': Imogen Thomas reveals 'love affair' with Giggs

-Imogen claims: 'He knew it was wrong but he kept pursuing me'
-Family says they fear she may commit suicide
-The couple met for secret love trysts in hotels before big matches

What a striker: Imogen Thomas, posing in a Manchester United top, said she tried to end the affair 'a million times' but thought Ryan Giggs wanted to marry her


Reality TV star Imogen Thomas claims she tried to break up with Ryan Giggs several times throughout their six-month affair.

She even thought the footballer would leave his wife Stacey and actually wanted to marry her because he refused to let the affair end and kept coming back.

Miss Thomas, 28, met Giggs - who is now being named thanks to Lib Dem MP John Hemming using parliamentary privilege to identify him on Monday - in hotels throughout their relationship.

Ryan Giggs pictured today on his way to training. Miss Thomas claims he kept pursuing her after their first liaison in a hotel


They even met up in hotels on nights before two crucial matches.

Miss Thomas spoke recently about the pressure she is being put under, saying she has turned to 'three big glasses of wine a night' to cope with it all.

She said that she has not been sleeping well because of an injunction taken out against her and has lost a lot of weight.

Giggs gave the thumbs up to fans last night as he jogged into Old Trafford for Gary Neville's testimonial match

United we stand: Giggs recreates the 'Class of 92' photograph ahead of the game


Talking about her affair with 37-year-old Giggs she said: 'I called it off a million times but he kept coming back. He knew it was wrong as well, he said as much, but he was pursuing me.'

Her family has echoed warnings over her state of mind made by publicist Max Clifford. Her sister Alana went as far as saying that she was frightened her sister might commit suicide.

Miss Thomas, a former Big Brother star, claimed she never intended to sell her story and denies allegations that she was trying to sue Giggs for £100,000.

A friend said: 'Imogen was 100 per cent certain he would leave Stacey and the kids and move in with her. It wasn't a relationship built totally on sex. She thought it went much deeper. She was in love but now she has been left high and dry.'

Their affair began, perhaps inevitably, at a London club one night last September. According to Miss Thomas, Giggs did not initially know who she was.

'We hit it off straight away because we had so much in common,’ she told a Sunday tabloid a little over a month ago.

Miss Thomas's recollection suggests that the Manchester United footballer knew what he was doing and had a clear mind.

'He was quiet and seemed quite sober,' she said. 'Back at the hotel bar we were just chatting about life but I could tell he was interested in me.

'We kissed and I ended up staying the night with him. I knew he was married but I was caught up in the moment and I never thought it was going to go anywhere.'

She claims she tried to end the affair there and then, but he insisted that she give him her number and the following day he called to check she had arrived home safely and subsequently pursued her with a stream of flirty texts.

What followed has filled column inches and called into question the UK's privacy laws which, in the days of Facebook and Twitter, appear outdated.

Last night Giggs made his first public appearance following the revelations about his private life, playing the opening 30 minutes of a testimonial match for Gary Neville.

His wife - who 24 hours earlier was pitch-side cheering him on during family celebrations at Old Trafford - was photographed leaving the couple's £6m home near Manchester without her wedding ring.


source:dailymail

I called it off a million times... but then I thought he wanted to marry me': Imogen Thomas reveals 'love affair' with Giggs

-Imogen claims: 'He knew it was wrong but he kept pursuing me'
-Family says they fear she may commit suicide
-The couple met for secret love trysts in hotels before big matches

What a striker: Imogen Thomas, posing in a Manchester United top, said she tried to end the affair 'a million times' but thought Ryan Giggs wanted to marry her


Reality TV star Imogen Thomas claims she tried to break up with Ryan Giggs several times throughout their six-month affair.

She even thought the footballer would leave his wife Stacey and actually wanted to marry her because he refused to let the affair end and kept coming back.

Miss Thomas, 28, met Giggs - who is now being named thanks to Lib Dem MP John Hemming using parliamentary privilege to identify him on Monday - in hotels throughout their relationship.

Ryan Giggs pictured today on his way to training. Miss Thomas claims he kept pursuing her after their first liaison in a hotel


They even met up in hotels on nights before two crucial matches.

Miss Thomas spoke recently about the pressure she is being put under, saying she has turned to 'three big glasses of wine a night' to cope with it all.

She said that she has not been sleeping well because of an injunction taken out against her and has lost a lot of weight.

Giggs gave the thumbs up to fans last night as he jogged into Old Trafford for Gary Neville's testimonial match

United we stand: Giggs recreates the 'Class of 92' photograph ahead of the game


Talking about her affair with 37-year-old Giggs she said: 'I called it off a million times but he kept coming back. He knew it was wrong as well, he said as much, but he was pursuing me.'

Her family has echoed warnings over her state of mind made by publicist Max Clifford. Her sister Alana went as far as saying that she was frightened her sister might commit suicide.

Miss Thomas, a former Big Brother star, claimed she never intended to sell her story and denies allegations that she was trying to sue Giggs for £100,000.

A friend said: 'Imogen was 100 per cent certain he would leave Stacey and the kids and move in with her. It wasn't a relationship built totally on sex. She thought it went much deeper. She was in love but now she has been left high and dry.'

Their affair began, perhaps inevitably, at a London club one night last September. According to Miss Thomas, Giggs did not initially know who she was.

'We hit it off straight away because we had so much in common,’ she told a Sunday tabloid a little over a month ago.

Miss Thomas's recollection suggests that the Manchester United footballer knew what he was doing and had a clear mind.

'He was quiet and seemed quite sober,' she said. 'Back at the hotel bar we were just chatting about life but I could tell he was interested in me.

'We kissed and I ended up staying the night with him. I knew he was married but I was caught up in the moment and I never thought it was going to go anywhere.'

She claims she tried to end the affair there and then, but he insisted that she give him her number and the following day he called to check she had arrived home safely and subsequently pursued her with a stream of flirty texts.

What followed has filled column inches and called into question the UK's privacy laws which, in the days of Facebook and Twitter, appear outdated.

Last night Giggs made his first public appearance following the revelations about his private life, playing the opening 30 minutes of a testimonial match for Gary Neville.

His wife - who 24 hours earlier was pitch-side cheering him on during family celebrations at Old Trafford - was photographed leaving the couple's £6m home near Manchester without her wedding ring.


source:dailymail

I’m disappointed in you’: Ryan Giggs’s estranged father breaks 20 year silence on son’s affair (despite walking out on his own family)

Ryan Giggs pictured as a boy with his father, Danny Wilson, who said he was disappointed in his son


Despite walking out on his own family 20 years ago, Ryan Giggs's father broke his silence to say how disappointed he is with his son over his affair with Imogen Thomas.

Danny Wilson, 55, spoke out about the relationship - the first time he has spoken publicly about his son after refusing to do so to protect his Manchester united career.

Mr Wilson said: 'Ryan is looked upon as clean living, almost beyond reproach. Now he's shown to have human frailties the same as the rest of us.


'I didn't think Ryan was like that,' he told the Sun. 'He is an iconic footballer who has achieved fantastic things. I had him on a pedestal. I'm immensely proud.

'But I am deeply disappointed at what Ryan has done, particularly as he has a young family. I'm sad for the effect it's going to have on them. His mother will be devastated.'

Following a difficult start to life, Giggs's fortunes were turned around thanks to the support and leadership of his manager, Sir Alex Ferguson

Speaking about his son's affair broke a 20 year silence in which Mr Wilson has never spoken about Giggs


When Mr Wilson, an ex-rugby league star, walked out on his family, Giggs disowned him and adopted his mother's surname.

Although he insists the split was not because of another woman, Mr Wilson was regarded as a womaniser whose career was curtailed by heavy drinking and crime, including a six-month jail stretch for attacking a police officer.

Thankfully for Giggs, Sir Alex became a father figure in his life and gave him direction. He even sees his father, but admits that things will never be the same again.

Mr Wilson, whose parents are from Sierra Leone and is now a security guard, said Giggs should have 'manned up', admitted the affair and apologised for it right from the start.

He also thinks the decision to take out an injunction was a bad one and he was badly advised.

If he had come clean from the beginning, Mr Wilson said, 'no one would be talking about it now. He's made it ten times worse.

'I'd be surprised if Sir Alex Ferguson told him to take out the injunction - it was probably other people around Ryan.'

Speaking two years ago about his relationship with his father, Giggs said: 'Everyone's childhood shapes who they are and what they do, and it was two sides of the story with my dad.

'I didn't like the relationship he had with my mum but there was another side where I looked up to him. My dad was my first hero.

'I think my parent's split may have contributed to that inner steel where I can block things out.

'When I was playing football, I never thought about the arguments between my mum and dad. I get on with my dad but I’m not going to let myself get close to him again because it would hurt my mum and people who mean a lot to me.’

Stacey Giggs was photographed arriving at Old Trafford for a family day at the weekend but yesterday she was seen without her wedding ring


source:dailymail

I’m disappointed in you’: Ryan Giggs’s estranged father breaks 20 year silence on son’s affair (despite walking out on his own family)

Ryan Giggs pictured as a boy with his father, Danny Wilson, who said he was disappointed in his son


Despite walking out on his own family 20 years ago, Ryan Giggs's father broke his silence to say how disappointed he is with his son over his affair with Imogen Thomas.

Danny Wilson, 55, spoke out about the relationship - the first time he has spoken publicly about his son after refusing to do so to protect his Manchester united career.

Mr Wilson said: 'Ryan is looked upon as clean living, almost beyond reproach. Now he's shown to have human frailties the same as the rest of us.


'I didn't think Ryan was like that,' he told the Sun. 'He is an iconic footballer who has achieved fantastic things. I had him on a pedestal. I'm immensely proud.

'But I am deeply disappointed at what Ryan has done, particularly as he has a young family. I'm sad for the effect it's going to have on them. His mother will be devastated.'

Following a difficult start to life, Giggs's fortunes were turned around thanks to the support and leadership of his manager, Sir Alex Ferguson

Speaking about his son's affair broke a 20 year silence in which Mr Wilson has never spoken about Giggs


When Mr Wilson, an ex-rugby league star, walked out on his family, Giggs disowned him and adopted his mother's surname.

Although he insists the split was not because of another woman, Mr Wilson was regarded as a womaniser whose career was curtailed by heavy drinking and crime, including a six-month jail stretch for attacking a police officer.

Thankfully for Giggs, Sir Alex became a father figure in his life and gave him direction. He even sees his father, but admits that things will never be the same again.

Mr Wilson, whose parents are from Sierra Leone and is now a security guard, said Giggs should have 'manned up', admitted the affair and apologised for it right from the start.

He also thinks the decision to take out an injunction was a bad one and he was badly advised.

If he had come clean from the beginning, Mr Wilson said, 'no one would be talking about it now. He's made it ten times worse.

'I'd be surprised if Sir Alex Ferguson told him to take out the injunction - it was probably other people around Ryan.'

Speaking two years ago about his relationship with his father, Giggs said: 'Everyone's childhood shapes who they are and what they do, and it was two sides of the story with my dad.

'I didn't like the relationship he had with my mum but there was another side where I looked up to him. My dad was my first hero.

'I think my parent's split may have contributed to that inner steel where I can block things out.

'When I was playing football, I never thought about the arguments between my mum and dad. I get on with my dad but I’m not going to let myself get close to him again because it would hurt my mum and people who mean a lot to me.’

Stacey Giggs was photographed arriving at Old Trafford for a family day at the weekend but yesterday she was seen without her wedding ring


source:dailymail

Surprise! Kim Kardashian announces engagement to Kris Humphries after whirlwind romance

Surprise! Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries have announced their engagement after six months together


Reality TV star Kim Kardashian is ecstatic after getting engaged to boyfriend Kris Humphries.

The basketball player got down on bended knee in her bedroom last Wednesday after a whirlwind six month romance.

The happy couple confirmed the news in an exclusive magazine deal, giving away all the details of the proposal.


The 30-year-old tells America's People magazine: 'I didn't expect this at all. I was in such shock. I never thought it would happen at home, and I never thought now.'

The New Jersey Nets player, 26, asked for her hand in marriage with a custom-made 20.5 carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond sparkler.

Humphries picked out for the ring with the help of her manager mother Kris Jenner.

He enthused: 'I just knew I wanted it to be big.'

The athlete proposed by writing 'will you marry me' in rose petals on her bed in her $4.8million Beverly Hills home.

After Kim accepted, the couple celebrated with the Kardashian-Jenner clan during a family dinner.

Kim tells the magazine: 'Kris really didn't want a big celebration, but he had jokingly told my mom he'd be fine if there were mini-horses there.

'Later that night at the party, my mom brought out two mini-horses, covered in glitter, for us! It was hysterical!'

The couple started dating last December soon after Kardashian ended her brief dalliance with Canadian model Gabriel Abury - Halle Berry's ex.

It won't be the first marriage to Kim, she wed music producer Damon Thomas when she was just 20, but divorced in 2004 after four years together.

In 2007, she famously dated rapper Ray J - who featured alongside her in a notorious sex tape.

No idea: The socialite was spotted having lunch in Beverly Hills just hours before Humphries' proposal


Later that year, she started dating American football player Reggie Bush, with the pair dating on and off for two years before splitting for good in March 2010.

Last year, she briefly dated Dallas Cowboys player Miles Austin.

Fans of Keeping Up With The Kardashians have long seen the socialite speak of her wish to settle down and start a family.

When her younger sister Khloe was planning her marriage to Lamar Odom just a month after they started dating, Kim was seen complaining it should be her and ex-boyfriend Reggie Bush getting married.

Surprise! Kim Kardashian announces engagement to Kris Humphries after whirlwind romance

Surprise! Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries have announced their engagement after six months together


Reality TV star Kim Kardashian is ecstatic after getting engaged to boyfriend Kris Humphries.

The basketball player got down on bended knee in her bedroom last Wednesday after a whirlwind six month romance.

The happy couple confirmed the news in an exclusive magazine deal, giving away all the details of the proposal.


The 30-year-old tells America's People magazine: 'I didn't expect this at all. I was in such shock. I never thought it would happen at home, and I never thought now.'

The New Jersey Nets player, 26, asked for her hand in marriage with a custom-made 20.5 carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond sparkler.

Humphries picked out for the ring with the help of her manager mother Kris Jenner.

He enthused: 'I just knew I wanted it to be big.'

The athlete proposed by writing 'will you marry me' in rose petals on her bed in her $4.8million Beverly Hills home.

After Kim accepted, the couple celebrated with the Kardashian-Jenner clan during a family dinner.

Kim tells the magazine: 'Kris really didn't want a big celebration, but he had jokingly told my mom he'd be fine if there were mini-horses there.

'Later that night at the party, my mom brought out two mini-horses, covered in glitter, for us! It was hysterical!'

The couple started dating last December soon after Kardashian ended her brief dalliance with Canadian model Gabriel Abury - Halle Berry's ex.

It won't be the first marriage to Kim, she wed music producer Damon Thomas when she was just 20, but divorced in 2004 after four years together.

In 2007, she famously dated rapper Ray J - who featured alongside her in a notorious sex tape.

No idea: The socialite was spotted having lunch in Beverly Hills just hours before Humphries' proposal


Later that year, she started dating American football player Reggie Bush, with the pair dating on and off for two years before splitting for good in March 2010.

Last year, she briefly dated Dallas Cowboys player Miles Austin.

Fans of Keeping Up With The Kardashians have long seen the socialite speak of her wish to settle down and start a family.

When her younger sister Khloe was planning her marriage to Lamar Odom just a month after they started dating, Kim was seen complaining it should be her and ex-boyfriend Reggie Bush getting married.

ANGELINA Jolie face of fashion house Louis Vuitton.

 

ANGELINA Jolie is to become the face of fashion house Louis Vuitton.

The Tourist actress — who raises six children Maddox, nine, Pax, seven, Zahara, six, Shiloh, four and two-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne with actor Brad Pitt — has reportedly signed a high profile, print-only deal with the French brand.

According to E! News, the deal would see Angelina earn “close to $6 million” for the modelling contract.

The 35-year-old beauty — who has recently launched a jewellery line — would be following in the footsteps of Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, who have both modeled for Louis Vuitton in the past.

Angelina has previously revealed she loves letting her children dress however they want, and defended her daughter Shiloh who is often pictured wearing boy’s clothes.

ANGELINA Jolie face of fashion house Louis Vuitton.

 

ANGELINA Jolie is to become the face of fashion house Louis Vuitton.

The Tourist actress — who raises six children Maddox, nine, Pax, seven, Zahara, six, Shiloh, four and two-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne with actor Brad Pitt — has reportedly signed a high profile, print-only deal with the French brand.

According to E! News, the deal would see Angelina earn “close to $6 million” for the modelling contract.

The 35-year-old beauty — who has recently launched a jewellery line — would be following in the footsteps of Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, who have both modeled for Louis Vuitton in the past.

Angelina has previously revealed she loves letting her children dress however they want, and defended her daughter Shiloh who is often pictured wearing boy’s clothes.

Angelina Jolie in Swimsuit

At teenage Angelina Jolie part in the racy swimsuit photo shoot with photographer Sean McCall. Looking very fresh-faced, Angelina wore a range of skimpy outfits including a bikini and one-piece bathing suit. And the carefree innocence of 16-year-old Angelina’s grin has been replaced by a perfect Hollywood smile.

Angelina Jolie in Swimsuit

At teenage Angelina Jolie part in the racy swimsuit photo shoot with photographer Sean McCall. Looking very fresh-faced, Angelina wore a range of skimpy outfits including a bikini and one-piece bathing suit. And the carefree innocence of 16-year-old Angelina’s grin has been replaced by a perfect Hollywood smile.