Modern brides-to-be and newlyweds have some additional resources to help them plan the big day and their new lives.

Several Web sites, devoted to several aspects of modern courtship and marriage, provide advice to those in love.

One site, www.theknot.com., offers tips on wedding etiquette, honeymoon destinations, bachelor parties, problems with newlywed living and also displays over 8,000 pictures of bridal gowns.

Iowa State students planning their nuptials said they have considered using the Web sites as a resource to get ideas for their weddings.

“Someone told me about Web sites where I could look for dresses,” said Missy Oostenink, senior in biology who recently became engaged.

“I think I’ll use the Internet to get ideas about invitations and dresses, but I will actually go to stores and see these things before I buy them and not rely totally on the ‘net,” she said. “However, I would consider booking my honeymoon tickets over the ‘net and use the site for new ideas.”

Bachelors also can get some hints on proposals and bachelor parties from the Internet instead of from their friends or fathers.

“I don’t think my fianc‚ would use the site, but I’m sure some guys might,” Oostenink said. “I think I might have to put stuff in front of him to see what he prefers for the wedding plans.”

The Knot also supports a chat line on which customers discuss everything from the shade of the roses in their bouquets to advice on how to lose a few extra pounds before the big day.

The Web page also contains a convenient budgeter and calendar, which catalog dates and prices of accommodations according to wedding plans.

The Web sites may offer assistance to people planning their own weddings, but employees at local bridal stores said they do not use the Internet as an aide.

“We don’t use these Internet sites, and I’ve only had one customer mention them,” said Tressa Carroll, employee of The Wedding Shoppe in Des Moines. “People will come here because of the need for personal service and the ability to try things on before they buy them.”

Another interesting site is www.weddingchannel.com. which allows brides to create their own homepage for their wedding. These homepages can be informative and fun by including pictures and history of the couples while displaying the registry.

“With the growth of the Internet, the bridal business could go either way — to the shops or to the ‘net,” Carroll said.

Oostenink said she thought the Web sites would benefit those with busy schedules.

“As far as I’m concerned, these Web pages are best for … women who don’t have much time during weekdays to make plans and would benefit from this convenience,” Oostenink said.