I alway thought my sister was going to be my maid of honor growing up. But now that I'm actually engaged and planning my wedding I'm having trouble, I don't know, committing to her I guess. My sister and I are 8 years apart in age. We get along but aren't close. She lives 6 hours away and we only see each maybe 3 times a year. I was her co-maid of honor at her wedding and thinks we are a lot closer then we actually are. She doesn't seem interested in my wedding or my life, she didn't come to meet my daughter until she was 3 months old. Personally I think she is very childish and selfish. I just think my best friend would be more helpful and supportive. We've been best friends for 20 years, since we were 5. We've never lost contact, lives in the same city and have the same life style (same friends and activities). She's the person I go to with any problems. She's the godmother of my daughter, which I think bothers my sister. I only want 2 people on my side of the wedding party. I also want my step-sister to be a brides maid, we are a lot closer then my actually sister and she's really excited about my wedding. If I wasn't concerned about hurting anyones feelings, I would have my best friend be my maid of honor and my step-sister be my bridesmaid. I just wanted to hear what some other people's thoughts were on the situation.

How did you announce an engagement to your friends and family? I would love to get all my family and friends together for dinner and drinks or something, but they live all over the country. I feel kind of weird announcing it over the phone or email, but is that the best option? Or is there something better I could do? Any advice helps!

When I first got my ring it was a size six which was way too big. The jeweler suggested a 5 which is what I have now, however whenever I put my ring on or take it off I have to use soap and water. And today I can t even get it on. I ve noticed my finger is now red and has blisters on both sides. My ring is platinum so I doubt I am allergic to the metal however I m not sure if this fit is too tight? I just want to be able to wear my ring comfortably but my fingers swell so much that I don t know what to do!

I was planning on proposing to my girlfriend tomorrow night, but she had to switch with someone at work. We both work in a hospital. I'm working in the morning tomorrow, and she's afternoon/evening. I still want to propose tomorrow, but my original idea is kind of out the window now, since we won't be able to go out to dinner. Any suggestions for a way to make it just as special? I'm thinking of surprising her during her break

My partner and I have been together for 20 years. We have 4kids, and their ages are 17, 15, 14, and 14. We have decided to get married, and the only people we want present is our kids and a photographer. Can anyone tell me which states allow couples to solemnize their own wedding? We are a very private couple, and we want this to be a quiet event as well.