Guest blogger: Bonne Marcus
A fitness industry expert for 27 years, Marcus holds numerous certifications from the Aerobic Fitness Association of America (AFAA), including Step, Spin, Bosu™, Pre/Post Natal, Youth Fitness, Aqua, and Personal Training. She has taught for New York City’s top health clubs, including Crunch, New York Health and Racquet, and Reebok Sports Club. A recognized name on Long Island, Bonne has taught at Dany Holdstein’s Two Worlds, North Shore Health Club, LA Fitness, Sport time, Equinox and currently teaches at the Sid Jacobsen JCC in Roslyn. Learn more at getfitwithbonne.com.

Photo Credit: iStock

How often do you weigh yourself? Be honest. Here is a better question: How often do you feel like throwing the scale out the window? 

Q: I’ve never had a good relationship with my father. He’s pretty much been an absentee dad and I resent the way he treats my mom. I don’t feel comfortable having him escort me down the aisle so is it OK if I walk by myself?

Photo Credit: Stephen Green Photography

A: It’s perfectly fine to take your trip down the aisle solo, but make your preference known ahead of time to avoid any heated arguments with your dad right before the wedding. In spite of your difficult relationship, he may still be expecting to do the honors. You’ll want to explain your decision to him and, who knows, it might just help improve his behavior. (One can only hope.) But be forewarned: It can also create even more of a rift.

Also, if your parents are contributing financially in any way, you might want to think twice about your decision and perhaps ask both of them to accompany you down the aisle. Ultimately, it’s your decision to do whatever is most comfortable for you.

Plus, check out more Wedding Ceremony Q&As.

—Diane Forden

I’m sure all of you will agree with me when I say that fulfilling goals is one of the best feelings in the world. Being able to check that item off your list and say "I did it!" is truly empowering.

Last weekend, I completed my first 5K! Some of my friends and I ran the 3.1 miles in the “Run or Dye” 5K Color Run last Saturday at Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, NY. It was so much fun because people are literally throwing colors on you as your running, and it was a gorgeous day. I ran most of it and walked some, but the fact that I was able to complete it was a huge accomplishment for me and something I am very proud of doing. Six months ago, I couldn’t run on the treadmill for longer than two minutes and dreaded the long NYC subway stairs, but now I can run three miles comfortably with a smile on my face. Something about crossing the finish line made me realize, “Okay, I am doing this; I’m going to get to my end goal.”

The second best part of my day was when I came home and found "congratulations" balloons on my fence and lining my stairs, plus beautiful roses in the kitchen. Aside from fulfilling one of my goals and challenges last week, I have a pretty amazing fiancé, too.

Our fashion team is reporting live from the bridal runway shows in New York City! You can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for up-to-the-minute updates. Here, get a quick look at the new gowns from White by Vera Wang for David's Bridal.

A feminine floral look:

For the fashionista bride:

Gorgeous crystal-embellished bodice and a frothy tulle skirt:

We love this stunner:

The Broke-Ass Bride's Wedding Guide empowers couples with the simple philosophy that it's not about how much you spend but how you spend it. As author Dana LaRue says, "You're only planning a party, so have fun with it." You don't need to give up your savings, the possibility of a downpayment on a house, or your sanity to plan a celebration that is meaningful and inspired. Here, Dana shares her advice on how to throw a bachelorette party you'll love.

It’s a new day in the world of "last night out" parties. Gone are the times of gender-segregated nights of boozing, dancing, strip clubs, and karaoke. Couples are rewriting tradition and crafting bachelor/-ette events that speak to their taste and preference. Sometimes that means blending genders and exploring unique activities or escapes. Here’s a list of some of the less typical approaches to your stag or hen parties that might even save you some dough in the process!