2life Weddings Issue No. 2

ISSUE NO. 2

Sweet ideas for your wedding celebration

THE SECRET TO PERFECT WEDDING HAIR, EPIC SONGS FOR THE LAST DANCE OF THE NIGHT, TOP BRIDAL RUNWAY TRENDS, GIFT REGISTRY TIPS & MORE!

2LIFE WEDDINGS ISSUE NO. 2

contents IN EVERY ISSUE

FEATURES

03 Editor’s Letter

43 First Comes Love…

Then Come the Dishes

Relationship strategist Sue Nador’s

08 Upfront

Tasty food trends, epic last

dance songs and more!

15 Weddings 101

5 things I wish I knew

before my wedding hair trial

18 Style

Aisle style: top

bridal trends from the runway

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advice to newlyweds

57 Honeymoon Sweet

Romantic getaways for any type of traveler GIFT REGISTRY

48 We’ve Got

Your Numbers

Registering is as easy

as one, two, three

REAL WEDDINGS

25

Summer Love: How to Host an Outdoor Wedding

Plan a fuss-free alfresco celebration

34 An Elegant Manor Wedding

Step inside this enchanting

“secret garden” wedding

63

Real Wedding Moment Watch as one bride and groom reenact a legendary dance routine

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EDITOR’S LETTER

M

Y WEDDING DAY was

the best day of my life (so far!): a love-filled celebration with friends and family in honor of my husband and me and our vow to stick together through thick and thin.

Aside from exchanging vows, a highlight of our wedding was when the DJ played the last song of the night (“All My Friends” by LCD Soundsystem).

All our friends gathered on the dance floor, jumping and singing their hearts out in one happy, sweaty gaggle. “One more song! One more song!” they chanted when the music stopped. (Too bad the 2LIFE WEDDINGS

venue was closing for the night.)

What song will you save for the last dance? Find inspiration with our “Last Dance” playlist.

It was the perfect ending to our wedding day, but not everything had gone as smoothly as I daydreamed it would: I was the victim of bad wedding hair—gasp! As upset as I was, I knew I had a choice: wipe away the tears and get over it, or spend the day sulking because the hairstylist failed to recreate the look from my trial appointment. I chose to let it go, thank goodness. I hope the tips in “5 Things I Wish I Knew Before My Wedding Hair Trial” will help save you from a similar hair-do disaster.

Just as very few wedding days are “perfect,” wedding planning is often a chaotic, imperfect process. That’s why we created the 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner app.

Designed for two don’t miss a beat! people to use subscribe to the together, the app 2life Weddings is a fun way for weekly newsletter you and your partner to stay ISTOCK

connected and organized as you plan the best party of your lives. Get started by downloading the app (it’s free!) and invite your partner to sign up and create a joint account with you. The app lets couples coordinate calendar events, share photos, bookmark important websites and manage to-do lists. Along with the app’s useful tools, you’ll find inspiring content, such as planning tips, blog articles, galleries and even this magazine.

Plus, find your perfect dress in our Gown Search, which features hundreds of gowns from top bridal designers.

When the big day arrives, remember the reason for this celebration: your lifelong commitment to love and cherish each other. This will help you handle any unfore­ seen hiccups. After all, having picture-perfect hair or Pin-worthy décor details is just icing on the cake.

We hope you enjoy this issue. We’ve got a runway report highlighting the most swoon-worthy trends in bridal fashion, honeymoon spots for every travel style, and relationship strategist Sue Nador’s advice for navi­ gating housework as you settle into matrimonial bliss.

And don’t miss our real weddings: a fuss-free outdoor wedding, and a glamorous countryside celebration.

Send us an email with feedback and comments—we love hearing from you! Visit our blog for daily inspiration and connect with us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Tumblr. —KATE DRUMMOND

EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER (ON LEAVE) Kate Drummond kate@2life.io ACTING EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Nicole Keen nicole@2life.io CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lisa Walker lisa@2life.io CREATIVE SERVICES Karen Hall karen@2life.io PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER Diane Hall diane@2life.io VICE-PRESIDENT Gerry Brown gerry@2life.io PUBLISHED BY 2 For Life Media Inc. 2life.io 416-469-1429 APP DEVELOPMENT It Guy Technologies It-Guy.com EDITORIAL FEEDBACK editorial@2life.io ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@2life.io 416-469-1429, ext. 223 TECHNICAL FEEDBACK AND INQUIRIES support@2life.io GENERAL INQUIRIES 2life.io/weddings 416-469-1429 © 2014 2 For Life Media Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Cover Image: Andrekart Photography

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UPFRONT

The Look of Love

W

HILE SOME COUPLES

stick with tradition and don’t get a glimpse of each other on their wedding day until they meet at the altar, others choose to have a “first look” before the ceremony. You’ve got to do what’s best for you and your partner, but here are three reasons why we love this romantic trend.

The focus is on the two of you see­ing each other in your weddingday best and sharing a private moment before the cere­mony. You can hug, kiss, laugh and tear up as a photogra­ pher and/or cinema­tographer captures the anticipation and joy of this oncein-a-lifetime moment.

1

IMAGEGRAFX

Seeing each other before the ceremony takes the edge off. You might be jittery, but having a playful and intimate moment together should calm your nerves and help you feel more relaxed when you walk down the aisle.

2

You can’t exactly ask the officiant to “hang on a sec” while you embrace your groom and gush over how darned handsome he looks! Having a first look lets you express your heartfelt reaction without restraint.

3

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Who Says You Can’t Play With Your Food?!

weddings has become more playful,” says Russell Day, Vice President of Daniel et Daniel Event Creation & Catering. Breakfast sandwiches, poutine, and biscuits with fried chicken are common items on the ever-popular late-night menu, and food truck-inspired fun eats are also crowd pleasers. And it’s not just the food that’s ng ervi s becoming more playful: couples are also idea having fun with the presen­tation. Day suggests serving snacks and desserts in small takeout boxes, mason jars or mini fry baskets to add that extra level of whimsy to your wedding fare.

“THE FOOD AT

Click here for more mouthwatering wedding food tips and trends!

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ELEONORA KOLÕTSEVA (FOOD TRUCK); ISTOCK (BOXES)

’Til Twitter Do Us Part?

S

are end­less sources of wedding inspir­ation: you can find every­thing from modern boutonnieres to bachelor­ette party ideas on these platforms.

But you might want to think twice the next time you log in to Twitter: A new study from the University of Missouri School of Journalism suggests that active Twitter use can lead to conflict, infidelity and divorce among couples.

The study sur­ veyed 581 Twitter users about their habits on the social media platform. Partici­ pants were asked how often they log on, tweet, and reply to tweets, and whether their Twitter use had ever led to conflict in their romantic relation­ships, including emotional or physical infidelity and/or breakups.

PRESSURE UA

OCIAL MEDIA SITES

The study’s findings suggest that fre­quent Twitter use can in fact lead to ro­mantic conflict, regardless of how long a couple has been together. It seems that people are sharing with everyone—except their partners.

Aside from making the obvious sug­ gestion that users reduce the amount of time they spend on Twitter, the study cites our 2life app, designed to keep couples connected, as a possible solution.

“Some couples share joint social network­ ing site accounts to reduce relationship conflict, and there are some apps, such as the 2life app, that facilitate inter­personal communi­ca­tion between partners,” Clayton says.

So, the next time you have the urge to share a photo or link with your Twitter followers (many of whom you’ve probably never even met IRL), why not sign in to 2life or 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner instead and share some­thing with the person that matters most in your life: your partner.

When you can’t talk or be face-to-face, it’s the next best thing.

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BOUNCING INTO A WEDDING NEAR YOU you to our latest obsession: the Big Love Ball, a five-foot, inflatable ball o’ love that makes a perfectly playful wedding prop. There are lots of creative ways to incorporate a love ball into your cele­bration. Use it in your proposal, engagement or wedding photo shoot, or invite friends and family to write messages on the ball as a fun alternative to a guest book. If you’re having a photo or video booth at your reception, add a Big Love Ball to your prop chest, or take it to your destination wedding and have the most epic game of beach volleyball ever!

LET US INTRODUCE

Follow our Big Love Ball adventures on Instagram!

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SHERRI KOOP PHOTOGRAPHY

etiquette tip: Receiving lines may be pass辿, but welcoming each and every guest to your wedding will never go out of style.

Whether you make the rounds during cocktail hour, or visit each table during dessert, make sure that you schedule time throughout the evening to speak to each guest and thank them for being a part of your celebration.

could store all of your favorite online wedding resources in one list that you can access from your mobile device? The 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner app has got you covered!

LINKS is one of the most valuable tools in our mobile app. It lets you search and share your favorite links from within the app and around the web, and bookmark them for handy access.

Keep your most-used websites (budgeter, guest list manager, GET THE APP! etc.) at your fingertips, and bookmark helpful infor足ma足tion that you find in other parts of the app. If your partner is using the app with you, any足 thing that you add to LINKS will automatically be shared.

EVER WISH YOU

Wedding Planning On The Go ELISABETH MILLAY PHOTOGRAPHY (ETIQUETTE TIP)

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2LIFE PLAYLIST

EPIC SONGS FOR THE LAST DANCE OF THE NIGHT!

CLASSICS

Sweet Caroline Neil Diamond

SLOJAMS 80S SING-ALONGS

I Wanna Dance With Somebody Whitney Houston Hold On Wilson Phillips The Final Countdown Europe Don’t Stop Believin’ Journey Livin’ On A Prayer Bon Jovi Billie Jean Michael Jackson Jesse’s Girl Rick Springfield Kiss Prince Like A Prayer Madonna Dancing In The Dark Bruce Springsteen

I’ll Make Love To You Boyz II Men I’m Still In Love With You Al Green Red Red Wine UB40 Can’t Help Falling In Love Elvis Presley Sittin’ On the Dock Of The Bay Otis Redding The Tracks Of My Tears Smokey Robinson & The Miracles Save The Last Dance For Me The Drifters

SENTIMENTAL HIPSTERS

Tiny Dancer Elton John

Closer Tegan and Sara

Islands In The Stream Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton

All My Friends LCD Soundsystem Dancing On My Own Robyn The Whole Wide World Wreckless Eric Heroes David Bowie Once In A Lifetime Talking Heads Home Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes

Shout The Isley Brothers Cecilia Simon & Garfunkel Jackie Wilson Said (I’m In Heaven When You Smile) Van Morrison Land Of 1000 Dances Wilson Pickett Lola The Kinks

nch click to lau playlist

Long As I Can See The Light Creedence Clearwater Revival

Just A Friend Biz Markie COMPILED BY IAN GORMELY

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ANIKEI

WEDDINGS 101

5

THINGS I WISH I KNEW BEFORE MY WEDDING HAIR TRIAL

It’s unfair, but true: bad wedding hair can happen to good people.

But a hellish wedding hair experience is avoidable if you plan ahead and follow these five easy tips during your trial hair appointment. BY KATE DRUMMOND

1. BRING PHOTOS Verbal descriptions and hand gestures (no matter how animated) aren’t gonna cut it when it comes to sharing your vision with your stylist. Pull up your wedding-hair Pinterest board on your phone or bring magazines to the salon. It’s the only way you can be sure that you’ve accurately communicated what you want.

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ISTOCK

2. BRING YOUR VEIL AND/OR HAIR ACCESSORIES You might love the ’do on its own, but will you still love it once you add your veil or hair accessory? It’s important for the stylist to see your veil or the size of your accessory so they can determine whether or not it will work with the style you want.

3. WILL YOU NEED EXTENSIONS? Extensions add a little va-va-voom to any bridal hairstyle, whether your hair is up or down, curly or straight. For example, if you want a full side bun but have fine hair, you might not be able to achieve the look without extensions. Discuss this with your stylist before your trial, because you’ll have to buy extensions ahead of time and bring them to your appointment. Most salons don’t stock them and you don’t want to find out on your wedding day that you need them (trust me).

4. SPEAK UP! If you aren’t head-over-heels for your stylist’s creation, now is the time to say so.

Trials are brainstorming sessions for you and your stylist to work together to get the exact bridal look that you want. Do you like the way your fringe looks? Are there enough curls? Too many? Do you want the tops of your ears covered or exposed?

Is your hair pulled back so tight that your head hurts?

5. BRING A FRIEND… AND A CAMERA It never hurts to get a second opinion from someone whose taste and opinion you trust. Your friend doesn’t have to love the look (you do) but it’s nice to have moral support and collaborative input. Plus, they can snap pics and you can see if the style flatters your face/profile from every angle. Bring these photos to the salon on your wedding day; they’ll be helpful guides for your stylist if a hair crisis is imminent.

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STYLE



AISLE STYLE: TOP BRIDAL TRENDS FROM THE RUNWAY JENNY PACKHAM ♥ HEPBURN DRESS

days when “wedding dress” was synonymous with a strapless, A-line gown. Modern brides want to walk down the aisle in fashion-forward gowns that reflect their individual style. This spring, designers at New York Bridal Fashion Week debuted collections that were clearly a response to these desires.

Andrea Anastasiou, stylist and owner of White bridal boutiques, highlights five of the most stunning aisle styles spotted on the runways.

GONE ARE THE

BY KATE DRUMMOND 2LIFE WEDDINGS



SEPARATES D.I.D. BY WATTERS ♥ ALICE DRESS/LOTTIE CAPELET

love the idea of changing up their look, but they don’t necessarily want to change their dress,” says Anastasiou. Remove a delicate capelet to expose a strapless dress, or detach an overskirt to reveal a slimmer silhouette: these are just a couple of the creative ways in which designers experimented with removable elements this season. A two-in-one style gives brides the option of having multiple looks, without having to invest in a second gown. You might even be able to wear some bridal separates with other special-occasion outfits after the wedding.

“A LOT OF BRIDES

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HINT  OF MINT ARM CANDY JENNY PACKHAM ♥ BILLIE DRESS

strapless and off the shoulder, the romantic “arm candy” trend is perfect for brides who wish for some coverage on their arms, but don’t necessarily want full sleeves. While Kate Middleton-inspired gowns look gorgeous, they can limit a bride’s arm movement. Plus, wearing sleeves during an outdoor ceremony could be uncomfortable for summer brides; this look offers a refreshing alternative.

A CROSS BETWEEN

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

HINT OF MINT MONIQUE LHUILLIER ♥ OCEANA DRESS

new in bridal fashion: brides and designers alike have embraced gowns with hints of soft pink and pewter for the past couple of years. While blush is still a mainstay for 2015, pastel blues, mint greens and pale periwinkles also made an appearance on the runways. Anastasiou predicts that icy mint will be the new hue for weddings in the coming year, whether brides incorporate it into their gown, or use it as a color palette for décor elements or bridesmaids’ dresses.

COLOR IS NOTHING

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HINT ILLUSION OF MINT DETAILS 

RIVINI ♥ ALYSON DRESS

TO CREATE THIS ultra-romantic look, designers layer beadwork, lace or embroidery on

top of fine tulle to create an illusion of the embellishments floating on a bride’s skin. When seen from a distance, the tulle “disappears” to create a magical, dramatic effect: “It looks like there’s lace creeping up the back of a dress, or beadwork tattooed up the bride’s arm or around the neckline,” says Anastasiou. The look is ideal for brides who want to show some skin in a subtle, sophisticated way.

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USE THE

gown search 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner

IN OUR

APP TO FIND YOUR PERFECT DRESS!



BOHEMIAN LUXE OSCAR DE LA RENTA ♥ LOOK 1

of boho-inspired style appeals to many brides, the slip-dressand-flower-crown look is getting a luxe makeover. Many boho-inclined brides still covet an unadorned dress, but others are looking for something that evokes understated style with a touch of glam. Embellished spaghetti straps, metallic lace or Oscar de la Renta’s “rich peasant” look are examples of the new boho, says Anastasiou.

WHILE THE EFFORTLESSNESS

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REAL WEDDING

SUMMER LOVE: HOW TO HOST AN OUTDOOR WEDDING Many couples are seduced by the idea of an outdoor summer wedding. Take some cues from Chris and Andrew for a fuss-free alfresco celebration.

BY KATE DRUMMOND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO OPS Whether you’re getting married on the water’s edge, in a forest or in Central Park, the setting will be a major feature of your wed­ ding photos. If you can, do a location-scouting mission before­ hand, perhaps with your photo­ grapher in tow, to find interesting architectural elements and breath­taking natural scenery that would make fabulous backdrops.

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SUMMER HUES An outdoor setting is already beautiful, so don’t try to compete with it. Chris and Andrew chose a color palette that blended in with summer’s vibrant hues: the bridesmaids’ dresses reflect the clear blue sky; the purple accents symbolize an array of summer blooms; and punches of green echo the grass and trees. Keep flowers and boutonnieres simple and fresh to highlight their natural beauty.

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WEDDING DAY WHEELS

Use bicycles to get around on your wedding day! They’re a fun and eco-friendly transportation solution. Chris and Andrew hired a bicycle rickshaw service to transport the entire wedding party from one location to the next.

A tandem bike is a charming option for the two of you and makes a great prop for wedding portraits.

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FUN FAVORS Chris and Andrew provided guests with a spread of goodies, including sunglasses, sunscreen, a map of the city, and treat bags full of candy.

DIY ceremony programs doubled as fans for fending off the summer heat.

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BRING YOUR PET

With an outdoor ceremony, the “no pets allowed” rule need not apply. If you have a pet, include him or her in your ceremony and photos, dressed for the occasion in a fancy neckerchief or bow tie.

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PETAL POWER

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In the great outdoors, you can decorate the aisle with fresh, fragrant flower petals. (Faux petals work, too, although they won’t smell as heavenly.) Make sure you have a backup plan in case a storm rolls in on your big day: you don’t want your guests to have to sit through a downpour as you exchange vows.

plan your celebration together 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner helps you and your partner get inspired and organized for your big day.

the ultimate wedding planner for couples

IT’S FREE!

it’s a sharing thing 2life syncs across your devices in real time, so the two of you are always up to date.

the ultimate wedding planner for couples

IT’S FREE!

REAL WEDDING

An Elegant Manor Wedding Step inside this enchanting “secret garden” wedding

BY KATE DRUMMOND

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PASHA BELMAN

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i n a h p e St &

P

Your car rolls to a stop at the end of a tree-lined laneway and standing before you is an Englishstyle manor, covered in ivy and surround­ ed by sprawling lawns and lush gardens.

When Stephanie saw this breath­taking view of the historic Greencrest Manor Bed & Breakfast in Battle Creek, Michigan, she knew she had found the perfect venue for her and Ben’s outdoor summer ceremony.

The couple had already chosen the backyard of Stephanie’s childhood home ICTURE THIS:

e

Ben

in Vicksburg, Michigan, for their wed­ding reception. Once they found the enchant­ing ceremony site, they settled on a “secret garden” theme and set about plan­ning the rest of the details.

Stephanie and her mom spent months scouring flea markets and garage sales in search of beautiful antique pieces, including silver tea sets that would double as centerpieces, Victorian furniture for outdoor lounge areas, and distressed dressers and tables for the guest book and photo vignettes.

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W

HEN THE HAPPY

day arrived, the couple had a “first look” before the ceremony. Ben had his back turned to Stephanie as she approached him on the lawn; when he turned around to see his bride, he had tears in his eyes, which, of course, made Stephanie mistyeyed, too. “It took some convincing for Ben to agree to see me before the wed­ ding,” says Stephanie. “But he was glad 2LIFE WEDDINGS

he did, and he tells me that was his favorite part of the day.”

Temperatures reached a sweltering 92 degrees Fahrenheit during the cere­ mony. Ben and Stephanie had antici‑ pated the heat and provided guests with hand­made programs that doubled as fans. They also set up a beverage station with water bottles, and offered handkerchiefs for “tears of joy” (and

pesky beads of sweat).

Stephanie’s father walked her down the aisle, and Ben’s sister sang “The Prayer,” accompanied by a string quartet, during the ceremony. Although Stephanie had been nervous about saying her vows in front of everyone, the heartfelt exchange turned out to be the highlight of the day for her. “It was comforting to have everyone there supporting us,” she says.

After the ceremony, guests traveled to Stephanie’s parents’ country house for an intimate backyard reception.

Stephanie is the eldest of seven children, and her father spared no energy when it came to preparing their family home for her wedding. He spent the entire spring and summer transforming the yard into an “inviting, romantic oasis,” says Stephanie.

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V

go off without a hitch; although Ben and Stephanie’s day was almost perfect in every way, they did experience a small hiccup while driving from the ceremony to the reception: the vintage car that they had borrowed from a friend broke down in the middle of the road! Friends who were en route to the reception stopped 2LIFE WEDDINGS

ERY FEW WEDDINGS

to help push the car into a nearby parking lot, and the newlyweds hitched a ride to the party with their photographer.

“It was an exciting adventure, and Ben and I just laughed about it,” says Stephanie.

The reception began with a cocktail hour featuring passed hors d’oeuvres of tea sandwiches and chicken wings (Ben’s only wedding-day request) and two specialty cocktails: the Stephanie— peach vodka with sweet tea—and the Ben—Jack Daniels and Cherry Coke.

Stephanie and her mom weren’t the only ones who contributed to the array of DIY décor details: Ben and his father restored an old bar that had been salvaged from a fire. Other reception highlights included a photo booth and a “keys to a happy marriage” table where guests were invited to write their best piece of rela­ tion­ship advice for the bride and groom.

Rather than having a traditional head table, Ben and Stephanie dined together at a “sweetheart” table in the middle of the dance floor. Stephanie’s family loves all things Disney, so guests weren’t sur­ prised when they were invited to take their seats for dinner to the tune of “Be our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast.

Although Stephanie had been nervous about saying her vows in front of everyone, the heartfelt exchange turned out to be the highlight of the day for her.

PHOTO : QUENTIN BACON

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T

HE ELEGANT

reception featured round tables with gold Chiavari chairs and antique centerpieces.

Chandeliers hung from the ceiling of the reception tent, which had a clear top to reveal the stars. A sky-lantern release followed the first dance. “There was so much love every­where,” says Stephanie.

Once all of the guests had departed, the blissful newlyweds collapsed onto one of the moonlit sofas and reflected on their wedding—an “amazing, wonder­ful, romantic, emotional, beautiful, and sweaty day!”

Visit 2life.io to see more inspiring Real Weddings!

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FEATURE

First Comes Love…

Then Come The Dishes Relationship strategist Sue Nador’s advice to newlyweds for keeping peace on the domestic front.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY PETER WILLEMS

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your best friend, your lover—and your housemate. It doesn’t sound sexy, but hashing out how you will work together as domestic partners will help keep your love alive. Wouldn’t it be a shame to ruin a perfectly good mar­riage over a sink full of dirty dishes?

I married for love. You too, I bet.

As a result, we expect things like trust, loyalt­y, and respect from our romantic partners. But there is one other very important expectation that is often overlooked. How will our partners work with us to tackle the domestic demands that sharing a home entails?

You already know that people you love can irk you as housemates.

OUR SPOUSE IS

Remem­ber how your sister always stole your favorite t-shirt? Or what about your college room­mate who left empty milk cartons in the fridge?

Perhaps your BFF became persona non grata after you shared an apartment.

Love and passion are easier to sustain when you work well as domestic team­mates. Resentment over house­ work is a libido killer—the death knell in any relationship. So, how can you and your partner be best friends, lovers and awesome roommates?

Here are the three most important lessons I’ve learned about keeping peace on the domestic front through 25 years of marriage.

1

BE FLEXIBLE

Accept that your partner’s aesthetic standards may be higher or lower than yours.

Are you a neat freak who goes ballistic if there’s one dirty dish in the sink?

Or could you care less that dust elephants roam through your house? Establish reasonable standards together based on what matters the most to each of you, then discuss how you will work as a team to get it done. Creating an environment you both enjoy requires compromise—and isn’t that the essence of marriage?

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2

SHOW APPRECIATION

Take time to thank your husband for the work he does. Kiss your wife on the lips after she takes out the recycling, even if the chore is on her side of the domestic ledger. Everyone appreciates knowing that his or her work is not invisible. Appreciation also means avoiding micro-managing—there is no “right” way to fold towels. And never underestimate the use of humor as a motivational tool: “You look so damn hot in those rubber gloves” goes further than a snippy comment like, “It’s about time you did those dishes.”

“Your relationship should never become too much work and not enough play.”

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Visit 2life for more relationship advice!

3

THE DISHES CAN WAIT

Your house is not a museum. Dirtying pots to make memorable family meals, buying books that overflow from the shelves, or being the neighborhood hub for your children’s active friends is what life is about. Accept that “mess” is a byproduct of a life well lived. Keeping a spotless house can rob you of precious time to have fun as a couple. Don’t let mundane day-to-day tasks take over. Your relationship should never become too much work and not enough play. Always make time to go for a romantic walk, catch a movie, or enjoy a pint at your local pub. Trust me, the dishes can wait.

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GIFT REGISTRY

WE’VE GOT YOUR NUMBERS THE ONE, TWO, THREE OF GIFT REGISTRY

BY KAREN HALL

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GIFT REGISTRY

A

RE YOU COUNTING

the days until your wedding? Totaling up the number of guests?

Crunch­ing the numbers for your budget? There’s one more thing that requires your arithmetical attention: your gift registry.

Receiving wedding gifts, like the event itself, is a once-in-alifetime affair. You may never again be faced with the prospect

of choosing all kinds of lovely things for your home, and having them given to you. It’s exciting, but maybe a bit daunting too.

How much is too much, or not enough? What do guests gen­ erally spend on a gift?

In our previous issue, we introduced you to the hows and whys of wedding gift registries.

Here, we offer our guide to the one-two-three’s.

TIMELINE: WHAT TO DO WHEN STEP ONE

Early on in your planning (as much as a year before the wedding), start shopping around and decide where to register. Have a look at the Galleries tab in the 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner app for our top registry picks. Pre-register online, but then make an appointment to visit a consultant at your chosen store(s).

STEP TWO

Start adding items to your registry well in advance of any pre-wedding celebrations that may involve gifts (engagement party, showers, and so on). It doesn’t have to be a complete list, if you still need more time to decide on, say, your dinnerware pattern; basic items like kitchen

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gadgets and gardening tools make great shower gifts, and there are probably some bigger-ticket items that you already know you want.

STEP THREE

About six to eight months before the wedding, once you’ve spent some time together discussing your needs and wishes and choosing what you would like, build out your registry list. It’s fun to do this in the store with the help of your gift registry consultant, but it’s easy to do online as well.

STEP FOUR

Inform your guests. Registry notification cards can be included with savethe-date cards, shower invitations, and perhaps your wedding invitations.

If you have created a wedding website, include the information there. Make sure your parents and wedding party have the details, too.

STEP FIVE

This is important, so don’t skip it: as the big day approaches, examine your registry list to make sure there are still plenty of options in all price ranges for the last-minute shoppers on your guest list. Another visit to the store and advice from your consultant may be valuable.

STEP SIX

Enjoy unwrapping your treasures, taking careful notes of who gave you what; you will need this information for….

STEP SEVEN

Thank-you notes. Ideally, handwritten thank-you cards should be sent to each guest within three months of the wedding, even if you’ve already said thanks in person.

STEP EIGHT

After the wedding, take advantage of the store’s completion offers to acquire any items remaining on your list.

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ADD IT UP

As a rule of thumb, there should be at least 75 items on your registry. To customize the number to your circumstances, follow these steps.

SHOWER

COST OF GIFTS

WEDDING COST OF GIFTS

NUMBER OF GUESTS

20

40

60

80

100

120

Under $25

5

10

15

20

30

35

$25 - $50

8

15

25

35

40

$50 - $75

5

15

15

20

$75 - $100

3

5

5

$100 - $150

2

2

$150 - $200

1

TOTAL GIFTS

24

1. Tally up the total number of guests at­ tending your pre-wedding parties— engagement parties, showers and other gifting events.

NUMBER OF GUESTS

50

75

100

150

200

300

$25 - $50

7

10

15

20

30

40

50

$50 - $75

10

12

15

25

35

50

30

35

$75 - $100

10

15

20

30

40

60

5

7

10

$100 - $150

10

15

20

30

40

60

2

2

2

2

$150 - $200

5

5

10

10

15

20

3

4

5

8

8

Over $200

3

3

4

5

6

10

50

66

87

117

140

TOTAL GIFTS

45

60

84

120

166

240

2. On the top row of the shower chart, find the number closest to your guest total.

The numbers below this show how many gifts you should register for in each price range.

3. For the wedding,

tally up your guest list and find the num­ ber that best matches it along the top row of the wed­­ding chart.

Scroll down that column to see the number of gifts you should choose in each price range.

4. To de­

termine your total number of registry gifts, add your shower and wedding results.

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THE NUMBERS

like most “open stock” with couples, you’ll be each item sold registering for items separate­ly). Along to furnish your home. You will with a dinner plate, a setting need only one of some things— might include a cup and saucer one stand mixer, one coffee or a mug, a bread plate or a maker, one garment steamer. bowl. For example, if you choose But with others, it’s not so a pattern that’s sold as five-piece obvious. Let us help you out. place settings including dinner Tabletop is plate, salad perhaps the plate, breadMake sure most mysterious and-butter plate, you cover the category. Gener­ teacup and ally speaking, saucer, you will basics, then you should antici­ need to register pate hosting add any extra or for bowls (rim parties or family soups, perhaps) specialty items. gatherings and separately. stock up accor­ Would you like dingly. The side­bar on the next other items in that pattern, such page gives the traditional recom­ as coffee mugs or fruit bowls? mended numbers.

Register for the same number There’s a bit more to con­ of each “per person” item. sider, however: for example, a Some dinnerware may be “place setting” can be five, four sold as boxed sets, especially or even three pieces, depending if it’s “everyday” or “casual.” on the pattern (less commonly, A 20-piece set, for instance, dinnerware is available as may include four five-piece IF YOU ARE

2LIFE WEDDINGS

place settings, so you will need three sets if you want 12 settings.

The same general principles apply to flatware, stemware and barware.

Make sure you cover the basics, then add any extra or specialty items, like steak knives or martini glasses.

Along with the standard serving dishes, look for fun add-ons: tidbit plates, for example, usually sold in sets of four, are great for entertaining, as are tapas sets, stylish chip-and-dip servers, and more.

And a final word about numbers, this time for the bed and bath. You should have three sets of sheets: one that’s in use, one in the laundry, and a spare set in the cup­board. Same goes for towels (three sets each).

Don’t forget to outfit the guest bedroom and bath­ room, too.

2LIFE WEDDINGS

How much of what?

FOR ENTERTAINING

12 place settings of dinnerware 12 soup/cereal/pasta bowls 12 accent/salad/dessert plates 12 mugs 12 place settings of flatware 4-5 serving forks and spoons 12 goblets, red and white wine glasses 4-5 serving bowls and platters 1 teapot, cream and sugar 1 set of salt and pepper shakers FOR EVERYDAY

12 place settings of dinnerware 12 soup/cereal/pasta bowls 12 accent/salad/dessert plates 12 mugs 12 place settings of flatware 12 glasses 4-5 serving bowls and platters 1 teapot, cream and sugar

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TRAVEL

HONEYMOON SWEET When it comes to your honeymoon, the world is your oyster.

But in case you find so much choice a bit overwhelming, we suggest some destinations sure to offer the perfect start to your happily-ever-after. Which one fits your travel style?

BY BENEDETTA LAMANNA

2LIFE WEDDINGS

JIMBARAN PURI BALI

This archipelago comprises more than 17,500 islands, only 6,000 of which are inhabited, making it a truly unspoiled destination.

The The country’s holiday hot spot, Bali is famous for its dances, festivals E X LULovers and spas. At the luxury resort Jimbaran Puri Bali, you will find yourself in an opulent, secluded setting. Situated on one of Bali’s most gorgeous beaches and offering magnificent ocean views, it’s the ultimate romantic destination. Take in the tropical gardens and dine alfresco, or enjoy some R ‘n R in your private cottage (or deluxe villa with its own pool!). Luxury is at your fingertips at this five-star joint, complete with spa services such as body scrubs, massages, baths and Ayurvedic treatments.

INDONESIA:

JIMBARAN PURI BALI (PREVIOUS PAGE AND ABOVE)

KEWARRA BEACH 2LIFE WEDDINGS

Steeped in ancient history, Morocco will seduce you. With its The ICS T N A ROM gorgeously intimate secret gardens (riads), bustling markets (souks) and stately palaces, this country sets the stage for your storybook honeymoon. Marrakech, the most important of Morocco’s four former imperial cities, gives the country its name. Take a stroll in Djemaa el-Fna, an ancient square that boasts storytellers, snake charmers and enchanting narrow streets. Check into the Amanjena, a resort located just outside of Marrakech, where you can gaze into the eyes of your beloved to the sound of fountains and soft Arabic music—a setting even Romeo and Juliet would envy!

MOROCCO:

2LIFE WEDDINGS

AMAN RESORTS

The country loved the world over for its cheese, chocolate and neutrality is an ideal getaway for outdoorsy The TURE newlyweds. The Swiss Alps are your playground—think skiing, N E V AD ers k e sledding, snowshoeing, ice climbing, hiking and paragliding. e S If you want a harmonious blend of romance and adventure, the Zermatt Matterhorn has got you covered. After a day of alpine adventure, rest your heads at the trendy Hotel Matterhorn Focus. Designed by renowned Swiss artist and architect Heinz Julen, the hotel offers modern luxury and breathtaking mountain views.

SWITZERLAND:

ZERMATT MATTERHORN

2LIFE WEDDINGS

Boasting lush savannahs, equatorial CO S forests and pristine E e h T RIOR deserts, Kenya offers WAR travel experiences worthy of your bucket list. This geographically diverse coun­ try features ancient granite hills, coral reefs and islets, and the stunning Great Rift Valley. Try activities like balloon safaris and game drives, which provide unforgettable glimpses of nature at its purest, including 11 percent of the world’s bird species.

Check into the Fairmont Mara Safari Club—it’s an ideal home base for animal lovers.

The Fairmont gives you access to one of the world’s richest wildlife reserves, the Masai Mara, which is home to cheetahs, zebras, lions and gazelles, while the nearby Mara River hosts hippos, crocodiles and catfish.

KENYA:

2LIFE WEDDINGS

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS

The largest of the three islands making up the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is the center of the action. With more than 130 restaurants, from street-side cafes to elegant bistros, you’ll find a place to satisfy your every craving. After dinner, check out a live show (local bands play all over the island) or hit the dance floor at one of Grand Cayman’s many trendy clubs. During the day, unwind at Rum Point with a cold drink or perfect your swing on the golf course. The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is centrally located on the famous Seven Mile Beach, and boasts spacious oceanfront lodgings. Nearby, you can take in the best the island has to offer—like restaurants featuring local soul food, seafood and eclectic fusion, plus a bevy of chic bars to boot.

GRAND CAYMAN:

Click here for more picture-perfect honeymoon destinations!

GRAND CAYMAN MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT

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REAL WEDDING MOMENT

WATCH

BRIDE & GROOM’S SHOW-STOPPING DIRTY DANCING ROUTINE! love to dance. They love to dance so much that before they became Mr. and Mrs. they spent lots of time and energy perfecting a surprise Dirty Dancing routine to perform at their wedding reception.

The couple reenacted Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s romantic dance routine to “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” (Spoiler alert: they totally nailed the grand-finale lift.) We love how much effort the couple put into this performance for their special day—you can tell they had the time of their lives performing together in front of their friends and family.

TERRA AND DRAKE

2LIFE WEDDINGS

We o t t wan m o r f hear ! u o y

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