“A wedding is often the culmination of a lifetime of dreams compressed into a flickering moment that will be etched into people’s memories for years to come,” says Reverend Chris Castle. But hey, no pressure, right? Don’t worry—if you’ve got the party planned but the ceremony has you a little bewildered, Chris is here to help. Not only is he an ordained minister who has officiated at more than 85 weddings in his 16-year career, he also happens to be senior waiter and manager of retail concepts at one of the area’s most romantic spots for weddings, the Inn at Little Washington. “Not only will I marry the couple, but I will pour their champagne and then serve their dinner. It is quite a stunning contrast to your average minister,” Chris says.

After graduating from Tennesee Temple University and Seminary in Chattanooga, Chris spent more than 14 years as a pastor in Southern Baptist churches. When an opportunity presented itself at the Inn at Little Washington, Chris left the congregation behind and began ministering to first-class restaurant-goers. At the Inn he watched wedding after wedding take place, officiated by a Justice of the Peace or another minister, before he finally he spoke up. “By the way, I am an ordained minister and I do weddings, if you ever need someone.” That was 73 weddings ago. Having done weddings as small as two people to as large as 500, Chris says couples tend to focus a lot of attention on the music, the flowers, and the attire—but they’re stumped when it comes to the ceremony.

From what’s required to what’s expected to what’s unique, Chris has answers to almost every question. Submit your questions now, and he’ll answer them from 11 to noon on Thursday.

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Have bridal news to share? E-mail lshallcross@washingtonian.com.

Our readers had music questions—and DJ Chris Laich came through in a big way. In Thursday morning’s live chat, Chris stayed an extra half hour to make sure he answered every last question. For 18 years, Chris has been specializing in elegant, romantic, fun—but never cheesy—weddings. Your guests won’t be dancing the letters Y-M-C-A, unless of course you want them to! What the bride wants always comes first. That’s Chris’s rule.

But for brides looking for some guidance, Chris came through with great advice. What are some good cake-cutting songs? What songs really get people out on the dance floor? Can the DJ get the party going without accosting guests with the microphone? Chris answered all those questions and more. If you missed yesterday’s chat, catch up here.

Next week, we’ll be asking minister and wedding officiant Chris Castle—who also just happens to be a senior waiter at the Inn at Little Washington—the do’s and don’ts of the ceremony. More details to come, but start submitting questions now and Chris will answer them Thursday at 11.

Want more Washingtonian.com online chats? Check out past Q&As with everyone from bartenders to other wedding pros, and submit questions to upcoming chats.

Last Friday, I promised to write about my bridesmaids’ getups, but the dresses haven’t arrived, so instead I’m going to blog about flowers.

I love daisies. In the chick flick You’ve Got Mail, Meg Ryan’s character says daisies are the “friendliest” flower, and I agree. There’s something pretty and understated about their yellow upturned faces and white, uneven petals. Also, they’re cheap—and when you’re buying flowers in bulk, cheap is good.

“Don’t spend money on flowers” is a sentiment shared by a number of previous DIY brides. Especially if you’re planning a wedding on a budget, spending a ton of money on resplendent bouquets and centerpieces doesn’t make a ton of sense because what happens when your ceremony and reception are over? All those beautiful blooms and elegant arrangements are trashed. If you do have an unlimited budget and absolutely adore flowers, I’d suggest making sure family and friends take them home. That way, they provide further delight.

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Say "Om" before you say "I do."

A good tune for the happy couple's first dance. [via DC Nearlyweds]

Dear Miss Manners: Do guests owe in gifts what they cost the couple in food and drink?

No wedding bells for Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo. Yet.

Have bridal news to share? E-mail lshallcross@washingtonian.com.

Thursday, June 26: One for the Moms
Any day today through Sunday, stop by Hannelore’s of Olde Town (106 N. Lee St., Alexandria; 703-549-0387) for its Mother of the Bride and Groom event. Preview handpicked couture gowns, suits, and separates from designers Tadashi, Carmen Marc Valvo, Daymor, and more. Appointments are recommended.

Friday, June 27: Sample Sale
Like a bargain? Then you’ll love getting 50 to 80 percent off gowns at Priscilla of Boston (8065 Leesburg Pike, McLean; 703-821-0167) this Friday. Instead of waiting the normal 17 weeks for your dream dress to arrive at the store, pick one of its on-sale floor samples and take it home with you Friday. Choose from Priscilla of Boston, Platinum, Vineyard, and Melissa Sweet. If you purchase a gown, pay $150 for preservation and cleaning—$50 off what it would normally cost. Free; 8 to 8.

Sunday, June 29: Open-House Tasting
Still deciding on a caterer? Test out R&R Catering at its open-house tasting this weekend. Pop over to Woodlawn Plantation (9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria; 703-780-4000) and see (and did we mention taste?) what R&R has in store for brides and grooms at a simulation of an actual event. Take a bite, meet the staff, and you might just have your catering decision made. RSVP here. Free; 1 to 4.

Know of an upcoming bridal event? E-mail lshallcross@washingtonian.com.

To read the latest Bridal Party blog posts, click here.

Add another to the ever-growing list of wedding expenses: National Park Service permit for taking photos on the Mall. [via The Pink Book]

Tips for shopping the bridal salon circuit. (Hint: you don't have to nix them just because you're on a budget.) [via DC Nearlyweds]

If only changing your last name was as easy as "Please call me Mrs. Jones." [via Brooklyn Bride]

Jill Scott gets engaged to her drummer, Jon Roberts.

A sweet way to say show your gratitude to your guests. [via iVillage]

Have bridal news to share? E-mail lshallcross@washingtonian.com.