It's wonderful news, the kind that absolutely must be shared. Feel free to spread the word and enjoy the fame. Everyone loves being in love and they appreciate lovers.

There are two kinds of announcements that you will normally make once you decide to get married. The first kind is to announce your engagement. The second is to announce your marriage.

When you register your intent to get married in your parish, your church will normally announce your upcoming nuptials for three weeks prior to the event. This is called posting the banns. The announcement is made in both the communities that the bride and groom belong to; not just where they will get married. This is to notify any and all parties, who may have a valid reason to stop the event from taking place, to come forward. For example, there may be a legal impediment such as your fiance may actually already be married and not divorced or single like he's been saying. In some countries, the city hall will also post announcements in your place of residence for the same purpose.

The second announcement is the best! Let the world know that you have been married. Post an announcement in your daily newspapers. Some of them will post announcements, with a wedding picture, for free. Others may charge but the fee isn't usually that costly. You can contact your local paper and inquire about their service if they haven't included instructions in the section on announcements itself.

When we said let the world know, we meant it. Don't forget to make your announcement online as well. There are hundreds of wedding announcement sites where you can share the good news. Let your far flung relatives share your happiness no matter where they are. I'm sure they would want to be with you, if only in spirit. Spread the word!