Friday Links: July 4, 2008

• David, the “other half” of Meg at A Practical Wedding, shared some thoughts on being a part of the planning process
• I’m a little late on the draw here, but Snipped & Ink posted about a awesome contest that might only qualify Michigan-area wedding parties, but it’s for a free video love story to be shot and edited for nada.
• Some of you might find the rundown that Laptop Bride shared on the history of the tuxedo, and some tips on buying one, interesting.
• Maybe this isn’t on point for those of you wearing a tux to your wedding (though probably outside of your wedding event), but check out the tips at Men’s Flair on how to buy the right belt.
• The always-useful Gear Patrol recently shared a good tip on a way for you to stay clean - in the shower, that is.
• Five tips from The Bride’s Guide on how to choose a wedding reception location. This is one of those things that you’re probably going to actually be interested, so suck it up and read something at a bridal site already.
• SmartMoney has great guidelines to follow on buying wedding gifts.
• While you’re staying clean (see link three above this one), you might want to clip your nails, too. People look at those things, you know.
• If your bride-to-be’s maid of honor begins sucking wind, turning said bride-to-be into a crabby person, then you might want to send a heads up about Bride’s Night Out to the aforementioned maid of honor. Or, maybe just to your bride-to-be, and she can do the honors via anonymous email. More here.
• Buying the woman in your life this t-shirt probably won’t get you anywhere, but it’ll be funny. [via The Daily Tee]
• Mighty Goods shares 15 wedding or shower gifts that manage to land under $40. Check it out.