Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer while the warm breezes turn a bit cooler in the evenings, some of us may think that we ought to follow tradition such as stowing away those white heels after today. Well, here's my take on tradition when it comes to bridal showers and brides. Toss tradition to the wind and just let the bride decide!

For years now, couples have been living together before marriage for a number of reasons such as convenience or financial. But that doesn't mean certain celebrations should be avoided or neglected before the "big day."

Dear Ernestine,

It sounds like your sister wants the bridesmaids who live out of state to participate in a bridal shower-bachelorette combo that flows straight into her wedding day. But that's when everyone is supposed to crisp for major bride duty!

While that could be a lot of fun -- but probably too exhausting! -- my advice to your sister is that she do some serious rethinking about her party plans.

Throwing a baby shower or bridal shower in December?

Repurpose your holiday decorations for the occasion and add some seasonal games. You'll be the best Ho-Ho-Hostess in town!

Q. Is it okay to send out-of-town guests invitations even though they won't be able to attend my shower? I would really like them to come if they are able, but don't want to put any pressure on them or make them feel obligated in any way. What's the right thing I should do?

Making Thanksgiving* Memories through your Keepsake Family Album

The terms bridal shower and wedding shower are sometimes used interchangeably, but times have changed. There's the new twist, and that has to do with the growing co-ed shower trend.