According to its introduction, Beaded Weddings by Jean Campbell "is intended both as a how-to manual and an inspirational guide for brides who are looking for ways to make their wedding more personal, creative, and heartfelt." But what I like most about this book is that even if you're not a bride-to-be, you can use it to learn all kinds of creative beading techniques and gain inspiration for new projects that expand upon your basic bead-jewelry making skills.

The book is organized into chapters that correspond with elements of a typical wedding plan, starting with "Invitations and Thank You Notes." These are mainly paper projects, but each one incorporates beaded embellishments.

Next comes "Reception Decor." This chapter covers a variety of projects, including pearl topiary trees (seriously!), candle holders, beaded votives and vases, champagne glass "garlands," and even cake toppers. Many of these involve using beads with craft wire, and the techniques are all relatively easy with a little practice.

Following "Reception Decor" are the all-important "Flowers." Here you can learn how to create several kinds of beaded flowers, or sprays, with twisted wire stems. They can be used to adorn just about anything, but example projects include floral boutonnieres and a decorated basket.

"Wedding Finery" is the next topic. I was surprised to find that this chapter begins with instructions for adding bead embroidery to a wedding gown. It sounds pretty advanced, but by using just a few basic stitches, you can create all kinds of motifs like straight, rope, and dashed lines, leafy vines, starbursts, confetti, flowers, and sequin stacks. You can also use these techniques to customize other types of clothing and decor fabric. The same chapter contains several projects for making elaborately beaded hair ornaments, including combs, head bands, tiaras, and even a veil.

The "Accessories" chapter is devoted mostly to wedding jewelry that features (not surprisingly) lots of pearl and crystal beads. Some of these projects are beginner-level - which means the gals in your wedding party have no excuse not to help you make them. The more intermediate-level projects involve various beaded lace techniques. At the end of the chapter you'll find an advanced-level loomwork beaded purse project. You might be too busy to complete one in time for your own wedding, but it also makes a stunning gift for a friend or relative on her wedding day.

The book concludes with a chapter on "Gifts." Here you will find many ideas for simple and affordable mementos for wedding guests. They include a pretty organza gift bag, beaded good-luck charms, and even a fancy memory book.

In addition to projects, Beaded Weddings contains many useful wedding-decorating tips scattered through its chapters. These will give you ideas for more easy-to-make adornments, some of which can double as take-home gifts for guests.

If you're getting married relatively soon but still have enough time to devote to DIY projects before the wedding, this book is a must-have. It provides a lot of information and inspiration all in one package, which should save you time and stress. I also recommend Beaded Weddings to beaders looking for general decor-project or party planning ideas, since all of the projects are highly adaptable.

You can find Beaded Weddings on Amazon.com and at many local bookstores.

Chris Franchetti Michaels is a writer and jewelry artisan specializing in beaded designs, wire work, and metal fabrication. She is the author of the books Teach Yourself Visually: Jewelry Making and Beading, Beading Quick Tips, and Wire Jewelry Quick Tips. Visit her website BeadJewelry.net for more jewelry-making help and inspiration.