The Bride's Ritual Guide

{Engaged!}

2012-01-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Since more couples get engaged at Christmas than at any other time of the year, I bet there are friends and family in your world who are newly engaged and thinking of wedding plans! Be prepared to "shower" a bride-to-be with the perfect engagement present -- a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself.

This book answers these "questions of the heart" for brides: How can I plan my wedding with ease, without effort and struggle? Who do I need to be for my wedding to be an expression of the joy and intimacy I felt at the moment I first fell in love?

'Tis not a "how to" plan a wedding book, it's a "how to be" while planning a wedding book! This is a "woman's storybook" for brides on how to be more at ease, more grounded and confident in their choices, more aware of the nature of the journey they are beginning -- and how to feel beautiful inside and out with every step.

Have copies of The Bride's Ritual Guide on hand for the perfect gift from the heart.
Order today....while free gifts are available with every purchase!

[Photograph: Priscilla Wannamaker]

Thanks!

2011-11-07T05:27:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to all who came to my book signing in Atlanta. The event was lots of fun and I got to see many old friends plus customers from my former shop in the city, as well as meet new friends.

If YOU would like a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself, then just click on the title to order a copy of the book plus some FREE gifts! The Amazon best seller makes a delightful gift for every bride-to-be, taking her back to her heart-center each time she reads one of my "RitualWise Bridal Notes." The short Notes are a collection of stories with a little women's mythology, goddess legend, costume history and wedding lore all wrapped around a bit of wise advice for a centering, "aha" moment.

Since all the stories are intended to keep a bride in touch with the intimacy of her rite-of-passage, they are also a reminder to keep her attention on the heart of her relationship.

Enjoy your copy...

[Photograph: David Willems].

Autumn Book Signing

2011-10-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

Please join me if you're in the Atlanta area in early November! A Jazz & Cocktail Reception will open the All Saints' Fall Festival on Friday evening November 4th ... then on Saturday and Sunday I will be at the Artists Market signing copies of my Amazon bestselling book, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself. **

Plus, I will also have my one-of-a-kind and vintage collection of linens, jewelry, accessories and objects of art at this show!

Here are the details:
WHAT:
Fall Festival with Artists Market & Great Food
WHERE:
All Saints' Episcopal Church
634 West Peachtree St NW
Atlanta, GA 30308
WHEN:
Friday 4 November = 5 - 7:30pm (Jazz & Cocktails Reception)
Saturday 5 November = 9am - 3pm (Artist Market)
Sunday 6 November = 8am - 2pm (Artist Market)
MORE INFO:
404 267 4273
Or click here!

It'll be fun...hope to see you! And thanks for spreading the word wherever you are....

** The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself shares how a little folkloric bridal rhyme connects the hearts of all women. It makes the perfect gift for every bride...and is a pleasure to read for women of all ages!
Click here to order and receive free gifts.

Thank You!

2011-09-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who bought copies of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself during the recent Cashiers Designer Showhouse event!

Brides-to-be bought a copy of the book for themselves; aunts got copies for nieces; mothers for daughters; grandmothers for several granddaughters; friends for friends; and wedding professionals for their clients. They all wanted to give someone dear to them something that spoke to their hearts, that informed their bridal rite-of-passage, and was simply a pleasure to read.

Do you have your copy yet -- as a gift for yourself or to give as a gift for someone special in your life? The Bride's Ritual Guide has been called "the perfect gift for brides of all ages and a pleasure for every woman who loves matters of the heart." (Order now & receive free gifts with each book purchase.)
Enjoy!

[Photograph Composite: Julie Mikos]

Autographed Books Available

2011-08-09T07:19:00.000-07:00

Autographed copies of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself -- my Amazon best selling book -- will be available during the popular Cashiers Designer Showhouse later this month through early September.

DATES: Saturday August 20 - Sunday September 4
TIMES: Mon - Sat = 10 - 4; Sun = 1 - 4
WHERE: Cashiers Designer Showhouse "Merchants Market"
BOOK SIGNING: I will be at the Merchants Market to personalize my books for you on several show days: Saturdays August 20th & 27th and Thursday August 25th; plus Thursday - Sunday September 1st - 4th (during show hours.)

Scene from my former shop in Atlanta

In addition to my books, a small collection featuring vintage linens & tea accoutrements, one-of-a-kind lace wearables & accessories, and charming Victoriana will also be available at the "Merchants Market."

Hope to see you there.

Another Sell-Out Success!

2011-07-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

The book signing in Cashiers, North Carolina this weekend was a sell-out success! All the copies of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself got scooped up and I had a chance to meet some fabulous women! Well, there were some interesting men there too, but I had a chance to meet so many women who had wonderful stories to share about weddings, or what their creative children were up to, or about their own creative entrepreneurial adventures and bold spiritual journeys! (Two of the wonderful women included my hosts: Vivianne Metzger and her daughter, Cherie Tibbetts who both know their way around some great English and French antique furniture and accessories!)

Plus, I was in the most wonderful setting. Not only surrounded by these marvelous antiques in a cozy attic annex of Vivianne and Cherie's shop, but with a view of a pictureques lake and mist covered Whiteside Mountain in the background! Thanks to all who made my "birthday weekend show" such a delightful success.

Upcoming Book Signing & Vintage Trunk Show

2011-07-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

Come join me in the wonderful mountains of Cashiers, North Carolina! I've been invited to do a book signing & trunk show at the lovely Vivianne Metzger Antiques...nestled between ancient trees and a peaceful garden on a lake. It's Friday & Saturday, July 15 & 16 from 11 to 4 during the wildly popular Joy Garden Tour weekend!

For everyone who buys a copy of my Amazon best selling book, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself, will also receive free gifts to share with brides or as a gift for themselves! The Trunk Show & Sale features my collection of "romantic vintage things"...antique jewelry, heirloom linens, vintage tea cups & books, Victoriana, bridal-ey accessories & gifts...etcetera.

Come join me and thanks for spreading the word!
Cornelia Powell

ps: Can't get to the book signing? Autographed copies (and free gifts too) are available by ordering here.

Other Books & You

2011-06-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

In The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself, I refer to and quote other writers and books: Ideas and musings and inspirations that offer some unique view, or charming folklore, or uplifting anecdote.

Here are some of the favorite books I used in my book, just in case you need a little inspiration of your own:

Language of Flowers by Kate Greenaway
The Ancient British Goddess by Kathy Jones
Free Your Breath, Free Your Life by Dennis Lewis
Hypocrite in a Pouffy White Dress by Susan Jane Gilman
Eco-Chic Weddings by Emily Elizabeth Anderson

Enjoy! CP
ps: All the book are easy to order from Amazon.com...just click on the book title above and you're there!

pps: There are hundreds of books highlighted in my Especially for Brides online bookstore....enjoy exploring!

ppss: Plus, do yourself a favor and get a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide for yourself or as a gift for someone in your life! As one of my customers said: "I got the book for my daughter, but enjoyed reading it so much myself that I ordered other copies to be sure I'd have on hand to share with all the women and future brides in my life!"

A Royal Weekend

2011-05-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

Don't you think Wills & Kate were very accommodating to have their wedding the same weekend as my bridal book signing in Atlanta? (tee-hee!) With all the wonderful people I met, as well as former customers and old friends that I saw, the event would have been great fun and a success. However, because of the added interest in the royal wedding, it became a wonderfully happy "happening."

Many people who came by had watched the live broadcast of the wedding -- or at least had seen a recap -- but all were very engaged in some facet of the glorious proceedings: the grand rituals and elegant ceremony; the beautiful bride and her attendants; the outfits of the guests and "those" hats! And everyone had a glowing comment about the breathtakingly poised and calm Kate. When someone asked, "Do you think Kate read your book?" Before I could respond, another person answered, "If not, she acted like she had 'studied' with Cornelia!"

Do you have your copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself yet? It's your guide to learn how to be a radiant, "royal" bride. (And mothers and friends love reading it as well!)

ps: When you order your copy, you get Free Gifts fit for a princess! Enjoy.

pps: See my blog, End of the Fairy-Tale Bride (the companion blog to my upcoming book) to read reports from the royal wedding and other tid-bits about the mythology of weddings and Princess Diana's legacy for all women.

Book Signings & Springtime in Atlanta

2011-04-08T05:35:00.000-07:00

I will be in Atlanta on April 29-30 & May 1 for book signings and art shows at the 3-Day DRUID HILLS Artist Market...which is part of the popular Druid Hills Home & Garden Tour.

DATES & TIMES: Friday April 29 & Saturday April 30 = 10-5pm & Sunday May 1 = 1-5pm
WHERE: the historic Stonehenge Mansion = 1410 Ponce de Leon Avenue - home of St. John's Lutheran Church (at the corner of Oakdale Road)
INFO LINK: Druid Hills Artist Market

In addition to autographing copies of my Amazon best selling book, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself as well as Planet Wedding: A Nuptial-pedia, (I have a story featured in that book), I will also have other gift books, vintage linen hankies, antique jewelry and more romantic treasures for sale.

My book, The Bride's Ritual Guide, has been called "the perfect gift for brides of all ages and a pleasure to read for every woman who loves matters of the heart." So a perfect gift for someone in your world .... plus all purchasers will receive a free thank you gift! (And 'wedding professionals' can purchase TBRG at wholesale.)

If you're in the area, I hope to see you ... if you live away, thanks for sharing the news with friends in the Atlanta area. (AND you can order autographed copies and receive free gifts right now. Here's a SPECIAL OFFER for you!)

Happy Springtime wherever you are!
Cornelia Powell

Something Old, Something New

2011-03-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

For the The Bride's Ritual Guide, I took the familiar "something old, something new" bridal rhyme -- dear to generations of women and the most feminine of bridal rituals -- and created a heart-full language of deep connection and self-discovery for modern brides. It's light and fun and makes for an easy way to have a soothing womanly moment!

Have you read the book yet? There are fifty "RitualWise Bridal Notes" that become a relaxing "ritual reverie" for the reader. Each of the Notes combine a little storytelling magic with bridal folklore, goddess legends, deep-breathing ease, costume history, and fairy godmother-like intuitive wisdom! And all women seem to love reading them -- the stories are not just brides!

With this unique book, every bride-to-be -- no matter her age or how many times she's been a bride! -- now has a guide where she gets to discover the depth of her own heart and experience wedding planning as an intimate and sweet rite-of-passage of deepening relationship...and fem-fem delight. (Just what wedding ceremonies are meant to be!

[Photograph: Julie Mikos]

Celebrating the Year!

2011-01-29T05:07:00.000-08:00

We're celebrating the first anniversary of the launch of my Amazon bestseller, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself...and you can join in!

Order an autographed copy and receive free gifts as my "thank you!" The intimate-sized book makes the perfect gift for any bride-to-be...a soothing, celebrate-your-womanliness message to enjoy even after the wedding.

Click here to see some readers' reviews...click here to order a copy to get your free gifts...or click here to order directly from Amazon!

Thank you....Cornelia

A Wedding's Womanly Rhyme

2010-12-25T01:25:00.000-08:00

Since The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself is inspired by the folkloric "something old, something new" bridal rhyme -- with some unexpected feminine twists -- I wanted to share this article published in the Winter 2010/2011 issue of SEASON magazine. Enjoy....

A Wedding's Womanly Rhyme

For thousands of years in cultures worldwide, young girls were taught the art of needlework. Like a girl in the Black Miao villages in southwest China or in the Rabari communities in northwest India where she might spend the early years of her girlhood embroidering her wedding costume. But societies change, and today these girls—perhaps more skilled with a computer keyboard than with a needle—borrow their elaborate wedding costume from village elders.

There have been generations of talented mothers-of-the-bride in this country sewing and embroidering for months to make a wedding gown. The highly anticipated creation would not only showcase fine, lovingly applied needlework techniques from the “old country,” but also inspire a ritual of mother-daughter connection. And now these brides go to the mall to find their dream dress.

The world may change but women always love to find ways to connect in rituals of the heart. And wedding celebrations continue to provide opportunities for women to share treasured objects, to offer their talents and support as well as their advice and memories.

That’s the beauty of the beloved bridal rhyme “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence for your shoe.” With its mysterious origins, this quaint verse is the most feminine of a woman’s bridal rituals, encouraging gestures of intimacy, gratitude and inclusion at times when the right words are not always easy to come by.

Plus we all love “costume” stories! Engaging in the “dressing ritual” ideas inspired by the folkloric bridal rhyme presents perfect opportunities for mothers and daughters to deepen or restore their connection to each other; for sisters to reunite; to make friends out of strangers; and for all involved to open their hearts like never before.

You may not sew or stitch or embroider a thing when you become a bride, but you still become part of a woman’s lineage that has its own rhythm and mythology. When you follow the ancient protocol of the “something old, something new” rhyme, you don’t merely borrow an heirloom wedding veil, you connect with a family heritage; you don’t simply wear Grandmother’s locket, you hold her heart in yours; you don’t just carry a vintage handkerchief, you receive blessings from the lineage of women; and you don’t only try on wedding gowns, you step into the possibility of discovering the goddess within.

When you’re a bride and busy planning your wedding, slow down and enjoy these personal connections and discoveries. (Ask your mother or grandmother how wearing her wedding dress made her feel.) Then pass it on! Share something with your attendants in the spirit of this cherished womanly lineage. It could be a hankie embroidered with their initials or simply sharing a costume story learned from your family background.

Finding these deeply connecting moments together with another woman—our daughters, our mothers, our friends—may be the modern way of weaving a renewed lineage of supportive relationships. And this feminine connection may be one reason wedding celebrations continue to draw us into their intimate and passionate conversations that hold the sweetness and mystery of a rhyme.

[Photographs: Sarah Merians Photography]

Engaged!

2010-12-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

More couples get engaged at Christmas than at any other time of the year! Be prepared to "shower" a bride-to-be with the perfect engagement present -- a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself.

This book answers these "questions of the heart" for brides: How can I plan my wedding with ease, without effort and struggle? Who do I need to be for my wedding to be an expression of the joy and intimacy I felt at the moment I first fell in love?

'Tis not a "how to" plan a wedding book, it's a "how to be" while planning a wedding book! This is a "woman's storybook" for brides on how to be more at ease, more grounded and confident in their choices, more aware of the nature of the journey they are beginning -- and how to feel beautiful inside and out with every step.

Have copies of The Bride's Ritual Guide on hand for the perfect gift for someone special in your world. Order today....

[Photograph: Josie Miner]

New Series for Brides Begins

2010-11-17T15:08:00.000-08:00

I'm beginning a new series on my LETTERS TO A BRIDE blog all about "brides, weddings, and aromatherapy." Come join me there to learn about the feminine delight of fragrance, essential oils, and you! Weekly posts to assist you in being a more relaxed, beautiful, and naturally fragrant bride!

Hmmmm...sounds irresistible. (Just like The Bride's Ritual Guide -- do you have your copy yet?)
~Cornelia

[Photograph: Julie Mikos]

Gifts of the Heart

2010-11-08T06:26:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who bought The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself at my book signing in Atlanta this weekend! There will be many women receiving gifts of the heart as they plan their wedding, enjoy the memories of the event, and prepare for marriage.

I also got to see and talk to women who had read the book. One said: "I'm not a bride, but enjoyed reading every word as a reminder to 'look inside to find myself' everyday no matter where my particular journey is taking me. It's a message for all women...and I loved reading the history and stories from mythology and folklore. So I want to keep it for myself, so I'm here to buy another copy to give as a gift!"

Well, that was certainly worth the drive "down my mountain"....and back to the big city! And there's another book signing coming up later this week -- maybe I'll get to see you! Thanks again to all....love, Cornelia

Join Me in Atlanta!

2010-10-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to be returning to Atlanta for my next book signing! Atlanta was home to my "famous" bridal art-to-wear store in the '80s and 90s. The event will be a chance to visit with old friends -- I lived there for 30 years -- and share my new book with them as well as with former customers and their families. What fun!

Please join me on Saturday and Sunday, November 6th and 7th at All Saints Episcopal Church in Midtown Atlanta at their annual Fall Festival. I'll be delighted to autograph a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself as a gift for someone dear in your life (and you'll receive free gifts with each purchase as a thank you!)

This link will fill you in on details of directions and hours and all you need to know about the fall festivities! I would love to see you there...Cornelia

ps: and click on the initials to read more about TBRG book ....

Twist On A Bridal Favorite

2010-10-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

As many years as the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence for your shoe” bridal rhyme has been touching women’s lives, there are that many interpretations of its meaning, each offering suggestions for a fulfilling and happy life. For The Bride’s Ritual Guide, as a way to deepen a woman’s bridal experience, I’ve interwoven intuitive twists and insights for a more personal interpretation. Taking the rhyme’s simplicity, I wrapped it with the intimacy of a woman’s language as a way to move you deep into the heart of your bridal rite-of-passage.

“Something old” – “Something of remembrance and femininity”:
To connect your life with a legacy of women who have traveled along this path

“Something new” – “Something of possibility and self-discovery”:
The aliveness of being truly present to love in each moment

“Something borrowed” – “Something precious and full of grace”:
Sharing beauty and insights; connecting the present with the wisdom of the past and the possibility of the future

“Something blue” – “Something intimate and magical”:
A sweet and tender connection to something divine; a reminder of the depth and eloquence of love without conditions

“A sixpence for your shoe” – “Something rich with relationship”:
A grounded life full of gratitude and true abundance

With the spirit of these new interpretations in the background, I then created the collection of RitualWise Bridal Notes. My intention for these Notes is that they will feed your feminine spirit, infuse your rite-of-passage with something vibrant and meaningful, as well as reveal a few secrets for being a more beautiful bride. And as a perk while you’re reading them, you just may find your inner goddess!

Do you have your copy yet?

Enjoy!
Cornelia Powell

[Photograph: Beth Ely for Missy McLamb Photographers]

A Sell-Out Success!

2010-09-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Visitors to my latest book event (in Cashiers, NC) "got" the secret of the The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself. Women lined up to buy copies of the book for friends and family members who were getting married -- brides-to-be of all ages. And some bought the book as a gift for someone in their life who had no wedding plans, but the book's message was too special to miss and not have an autographed copy or two on hand when the time was right (or for the purchaser to simply enjoy for herself!)

This is the secret that these "wise-women shoppers" got: In this book, my invitation to the reader to “look inside to find yourself” draws her into a woman's journey of ancient wisdom and feminine mystique—often lost in today's frenetic culture. So I've created a pathway for modern brides with folkloric stories of that journey. Here in these stories she will uncover some of the mysteries and magic of not only her bridal rite-of-passage, but also of her true heart's desire.

See what all the magic is about! Order your copy today and receive other gifts of the heart (for free!).

Enjoy!
Cornelia Powell
[Photograph above taken at the Merchants' Tent on the grounds of the Cashiers Historical Society; part of the Cashiers Designer Showhouse festivities.]

Book Signings & Presentations in Cashiers, North Carolina

2010-08-05T03:21:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to be a guest of the Cashiers Historical Society for book signings and wedding folklore talks on Saturday, August 21st and during their Community Day on Wednesday, September 1st, as well as during Labor Day weekend at the historic Zachary-Tolbert House. I will autograph copies of my Amazon best selling book, The Bride’s Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself, from 11 am to 3 pm on all days...as well as give free gifts to all who make a purchase!

These guest appearances occur during the run of the popular Cashiers Designer Showhouse from August 21st through September 5th. If you’ve never been to the lush, picturesque Cashiers Valley -- surrounded by some of the oldest mountains on Earth -- this is the summer to come, visit, and enjoy the beauty and peacefulness.

Check all the links for details of the Cashiers Designer Showhouse (featuring a home at Wade Hampton Golf Club), tours of the Zachary-Tolbert House Museum, my presentations, and the Merchant’s Tent -- chock full of antiques from local retailers! A delicious 107 Cafe lunch will be served every day of the Showhouse under a pavilion at the Z-T House and shuttle vans will be connecting to all locations.

Autographed copies of The Bride’s Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself as well as my meditation CDs, vintage sixpence, and other goodies will be on sale in my booth at the Merchant’s Tent set-up on the grounds of the Z-T House during the entire 16-day event. Come join me for lunch and a beautiful view!

This Is Your Moment

2010-07-27T03:43:00.000-07:00

As many years as the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence for your shoe” bridal rhyme has been touching women’s lives, there are that many interpretations of its meaning, each offering suggestions for a fulfilling and happy life.

For my book, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself -- and as a gift to the modern bride -- I’ve interwoven intuitive twists and insights for a more personal interpretation of this charming “something old” rhyme. (Do you have your copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide book yet?) Taking the rhyme’s simplicity, I wrapped it with the intimacy of a woman’s language as a way to move you deep into the heart of your bridal rite-of-passage.

Yes, this is your bridal rite-of-passage...not just a time in your life to plan your wedding! It is your moment to look inside to find yourself...and meet the real you...be surprised and delighted...make a few adjustments, tenderly...and love what you find. Yes, other moments of self-discovery are always available to you...but here's an opportunity like no other. Don't miss this moment...the magic of this rite-of-passage...the magic of you.

Enjoy!

Join Me For Brunch!

2010-07-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

The elegant Carl House near Athens, Georgia is hosting another beautiful Bridal Brunch on Sunday afternoon, July 25th. Brides and their friends and family members in the area -- from Atlanta and beyond -- are invited to come and enjoy this sumptuous event.

And I'm delighted to be a guest! Not only will I be available to autograph copies of my book, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside To Find Yourself, but I will also present a talk -- and give away lots for Free Gifts!

To register, go online then click on "Events." (Registered brides can bring one guest for free.) See all the details on the Carl House website.

I look forward to seeing you there. (And please spread the word -- the Carl House is famous for its delicious food, grand surroundings, and elegant approach to all things wedding!)

Hear Podcast of Cornelia's Interview

2010-06-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

The podcast of Cornelia's June 12th interview on WomanTalk Live Radio is posted! Some details about The Bride's Ritual Guide that you'll enjoy and some things that brides just might not know to do for their wedding.
Enjoy.

2010-06-16T02:54:00.000-07:00

Since The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself is full of folkloric wedding stories, I thought you'd enjoy reading this! One of my new stories, Queen Victoria's Wedding Bouquet and the Legend of the Royal Myrtles, was recently published in Victoriana Online Magazine.

There's a bit of goddess mythology, royal history, and botanical folklore rolled into one entertaining tale! Click here to enjoy....

Hear My Interview on WomanTalk Live!

2010-06-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

Do you know the entertaining and enlivening WomanTalk Live Radio show? It's broadcast every Saturday evening from 6 to 7 EST. I'm delighted to be their guest Saturday June 12 ... and if you miss the live interview, you can link in to the podcast later at any time!

Enjoy!
Cornelia

The Perfect Gift

2010-05-04T15:59:00.000-07:00

I notice that many women -- even savvy and centered ones -- get a bit caught up in the frenzy of "how to" when they become a bride! "How to plan a wedding while working full-time?" "How to create the wedding I really want on a small budget?" "How to look my best when I'm ten pounds overweight?" Etcetera!

These are all valid queries and there are many books and magazines that brides-to-be rush out to buy that cover these "how to" topics! But sometimes when she focuses on these "outer" concerns, the bride-to-be forgets to take care of her "inner" self.

That's why The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself is the perfect gift for you to give your friend or family member when she becomes engaged. A gift that gives her back herself when the swirl of wedding planning spins her away from the intimacy of her heart's voice.

She'll love that you thought of sharing such a deliciously feminine gift! Even if she only reads one page (although readers tell me they either can't put the book down or love picking it up and reading a bit each day), something will touch her heart and open a pathway to this new found land of deep relationship.

Thank you for sharing a bit of your heart.
love, Cornelia

ps: And now is a special time to order because you'll get lots of extra treats...click here for details!

Don't Miss the Free DVD Special Offer!

2010-04-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

See the post below ("Gifts for Your Body, Mind & Spirit") with all the details of the Special Offer from WeddingBod.com. Buy a copy of "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" and receive two free exercise DVDs...along with more treats from me!

When our bodies are looking good and feeling vibrant and strong, our minds and spirits do as well! Enjoy these gifts -- inside & out -- for yourself or someone in your world! Click here to order.

Gifts for Your Body, Mind & Spirit!

2010-03-11T11:42:00.000-08:00

I'd like to introduce you to my friend Dona Marie Duke of WeddingBod.com, creator of the Wedding Workout and Couple/Partner Stretch exercise regimens. I love her work because she combines "fitness" for your body, mind and spirit!

Dona's passion is producing fitness programs and workouts -- using her background in Yoga, Pilates, Reike, and belly-dancing -- for everyone from elite athletes to those just beginning physical pursuits.

She is offering her popular exercise DVDs (available in English and Spanish) designed for bridal parties and couples -- but are fun & beneficial to everyone -- as free gifts to my readers! Order a copy of my Amazon bestseller, The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself, and receive Dona's two DVDs (and a bonus from me) as your Free Gifts!

More about these great DVDs:

1. FUSION: Wedding Workout DVD
Want to look your most beautiful and fit for your wedding? Dona shows you how while putting attention on your inner well-being as well! Her Wedding Workout Fusion DVD (available in English and Spanish) combines Pilates and Yoga with deep stretch and dance movements for women as well as men!

"Wedding Workout Fusion is unbelievable... My entire wedding party, bridesmaids and groomsman did the workouts 8 weeks before our wedding--We ALL had results--We met weekly and made a fun evening working out! I had my dress altered for the final fitting and she had to take 2 inches in at the waist." -Kelly G., Ann Arbor, MI

2. SYNTHESIS: Couple/Partner Stretch DVD
Relationships new or old get better when the couple puts their source energy back into their relationship, according to Dona. She believes that moving your body is key to moving your partnership to the next level -- physically and spiritually. "Getting fit together brings relationships closer!"

Dona's focus is all about bridging movement with soul. No wonder that testimonials of her work declare that not only did people experience a change in their bodies, but also something deeper shifted in their lives and spirit! "Let go," Dona says, "and move forward to a healthier place in your life and find that your dreams take on a completely fresh shape."

Order a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself and receive both DVDs as your GIFTS....plus a little extra treat from me! (DVD supply is limited.)

Gifts for YOU or someone in your world....gifts for your mind, body, and spirit. Enjoy....

What Readers Are Saying about TBRG!

2010-03-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

I thought you'd like to hear what some readers are saying about The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself....

"...it's like it's written just for me. I felt the words guiding me on this rite-of-passage."

"I learned things about being a bride that I had never thought of before! I love Cornelia's stories of goddess mythology and how they relate to brides."

"I relaxed just reading the Introduction! I'm glad I have something like this to remind me of the big picture of planning a wedding....so I don't get lost in the details. Plus simple reminders how to relax and take care of myself...."

"As a mother-of-the-bride, I enjoyed reading the book....with ideas for my daughter and me to share -- it seemed to bring us closer together. Plus, it brought back intimate moments and sweet reminders of my own wedding. What a gift this book is for so many...."

"I love how Cornelia uses the 'something old, something new' rhyme -- something I've heard since I was a child -- and made it live for me in a new way....something for me to share with all the women in my life as I plan my wedding."

Enjoy your own copy or order one as a gift for someone in your world! Then tell us your story!

A Booksigning in Your Area?

2010-02-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

Hello! I continue to enjoy my booksigning "tour" through the Southeast US....and especially the feedback from readers of "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself." ("I love how the book speaks to me personally. It makes me feel so feminine, relaxed, and in love! Plus, I've learned so much about the legacy of being a bride.")

If you would like to host a booksigning (and perhaps a talk or presentation) at your garden or book club or business -- or have suggestions of a local bookstore, a bridal or gift store, or a bridal event in your area -- please send me an email note!

And don't forget that all during the month of February, we are CELEBRATING LOVE with a Special Offer: Buy a copy of "The Bride's Ritual Guide" from Weddings of Grace and receive my meditation CDs and a vintage six-pence for Free! See details.

Hope to see you along the tour!
Cornelia

(Photograph above from the kick-off book event at the famous Page and Palette Bookstore in Fairhope, AL.)

February is for LOVE

2010-02-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE for the CELEBRATING LOVE February Special Offer: order "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" and receive 3 Free Gifts.

This book is a soothing gift of ease for you or someone in your world. Share the love in February....Order a copy now and receive your 3 Gifts.

[Photograph: Meg Smith]

CELEBRATING LOVE Special Offer!

2010-01-28T09:42:00.000-08:00

All during the month of February, we will be CELEBRATING LOVE with a Special Offer!

Order a copy of "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" from Weddings of Grace and receive 3 Free Gifts!
When you CLICK HERE to order my Amazon Bestseller book -- an autographed copy since it's coming directly from me -- you will receive both of my soothing Open Your Heart Meditation CDs -- one especially for Brides and one for all Women -- plus a hard-to-find vintage sixpence coin in a lovely gift bag for FREE! (Total value of the three gifts over $54.)

Reviews are calling the book "the essential gift for brides of all ages and a pleasure for every woman who loves matters of the heart."

CELEBRATE LOVE with us during February! Click here to order. Someone in your world would love a copy of "The Bride's Ritual Guide" ... and you'll receive lots of extra love to go around with this Special Offer! (Order now while I have copies on hand.)

Many thanks!

Thanks & What's Next

2010-01-22T04:19:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who has supported my booksigning events -- they've gotten off to a great start! I loved starting the "book tour" in my home state of Alabama. In fact, yesterday I made a stop in Auburn and not only got to meet some brides and their mothers from the area, but also got to see former professors and fashion colleagues who came by my booksigning at the beautiful WmHarrison store.

Now making plans for Atlanta, Nashville, Los Angeles, and cities in Virginia. I'll keep you posted on details and dates of speaking engagements and booksignings around the country. Stay tuned.

....with love from Cornelia

Booksigning Tour Continues

2010-01-18T17:56:00.000-08:00

My booksigning tour got off to a fun and successful start this past weekend! Visits to Page and Palette Bookstore in Fairhope, AL and The Ivy Cottage in Mobile, AL not only included selling lots of books -- yippee! -- but also connecting with old friends, reunions with family members, and meeting new friends who appreciate matters of the heart!

(If you're in that area and didn't get by, both stores have a limited supply of autographed books that I left.)

Now it's on to Auburn, AL -- continuing the "going back to my roots" locales -- for a booksigning on Thursday afternoon at the WmHarrison store. Thanks for spreading the word....lots of freebies to be given away!

I'll keep you posted on other locations and events....or if you have ideas for a great place for a booksigning in your part of the world, let me know.

with love, Cornelia

Updated Booksigning Schedule

2010-01-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

I've begun my book signing tour for my Amazon Bestseller "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" -- starting with special places in Alabama near where I grew up! So for those of you in the Fairhope, Mobile, Auburn areas, here is the current schedule:

~Saturday, January 16th, 2-4 pm, at the famous Page and Palette Bookstore in downtown Fairhope, AL

~Sunday, January 17th, 1-4pm, join us for an English Tea at The Ivy Cottage on Old Shell Road in Mobile, AL

~Thursday, January 21st, 2-5pm, at the elegant WmHarrison fabric store in Auburn, AL

Hope to see you there if you live nearby...and please share the news if you have friends or family in these areas! Many thanks. (AND gifts will be given with each book purchase plus door prizes!)

....with love from Cornelia

Book Signing Invitation + Gifts & Door Prizes

2010-01-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

For those in the Fairhope/Mobile, Alabama area, join me for a booksigning at the famous Page and Palette bookstore Saturday, Jan 16th, from 2-4 pm.

Everyone who buys a copy of "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" will receive a FREE Open Your Heart Meditation CD. If you buy two or more books, you'll receive two CDs (one for brides and one for all women) and a vintage sixpence coin.

I look forward to seeing you there!

The Perfect Gift

2010-01-02T04:50:00.000-08:00

Since more couples get engaged at Christmas than at any other time, you just may need the perfect gift for a bride-to-be! "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" is a book that will soothe the heart of any bride-to-be.

The book was launched in early December and became an Amazon Bestseller! Now the reviews are coming in and "The Bride's Ritual Guide" is being touted as a book that will change how brides prepare for their wedding!

'Tis a lovely gift for yourself or a bride in your world. Enjoy....

[Photograph: Priscilla Wannamaker]

Bestseller & the Best of You!

2009-12-14T02:40:00.000-08:00

"The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" hit the Amazon Bestseller list the day it launched last week! Thank you to everyone who supported the campaign....buying the book, sharing the news, sending lots of love!

I'm delighted the book is so well received for many reasons; and one especially is that it's a wonderful way to draw attention to the more loving side of relationship and wedding planning. "The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself" will not only change how brides prepare for their wedding, but also how they relate to their partners and families. So if you purchased a copy, what a gift you have provided for yourself or for someone else....thank you!

This heart-centered message is important—not just for brides—but for little girls and women of all ages! Several people who bought the book shared about the recipients: A friend in Houston wrote that he bought a book to give to his daughter one day—she's a pre-teen now. (I love that—and encouraged him to give it to her now as an introspective message.) One friend bought a copy for her mother—an 80-something year-old newlywed! And my dear sister Sallie in Alabama bought two copies to donate to the local public library in honor of our mother and father. Life couldn't be much sweeter! (Or more creative.)

Thank you for sharing a deeper expression of love in the world.

love, Cornelia

ps: missed getting your copy? 'Tis okay....now you can go buy a bestseller!

December 10th is Celebration Day!

2009-12-03T05:31:00.000-08:00

Save the Date! December 10th is my AMAZON BEST SELLER DAY! On that day when you buy a copy of The Bride's Ritual Guide: Look Inside to Find Yourself from Amazon.com -- you will receive a collection of Thank You Gifts!!

Why does the world need another book for brides? While others tend to focus on the trappings of the wedding, I focus on the intimacy of the bride's rite-of-passage. Inviting the reader to "look inside to find yourself," The Bride's Ritual Guide will not only change how brides prepare for their wedding, but also how they relate to their partners, families and friends.

This is an important message for brides as well as for little girls and women of all ages! Whether you buy this book as a gift for yourself or for women or girls in your world, it is like sharing a piece of your heart!

Stay tuned for more news!

...with love from Cornelia

ps: And of course, if you need a copy before the 10th, the book is available on Amazon right now!

Cover & Interior Design: Phuong Nguyen of Creative Crop
Cover Photograph: Julie Mikos