Forever Wedding & Event Planner 2023

F REVER

CHOOSING THE PERFECT

Wedding Hair Wedding Hair

A wedding is a tough time to experience a bad hair day. Clothing styles, time of day and weather all can dictate a wedding hairstyle, but ultimately one of the most important factors in a wedding hairstyle is finding a stylist who understands you and can exercise your vision. A patient, understanding stylist who is open to viewing different photographs and drawing inspiration from various places, as well as running through a few trial styles, can help brides (and grooms) look their best. In fact, trials are a must to ensure that a chosen style will work with your hair texture.

If you plan to get your hair colored, professionals recommend doing so about three weeks in advance of the big day so it looks natural and any potential snafus can be remedied beforehand. Your stylist may suggest a light trim prior to the wedding so that the ends are fresh and healthy. And since you’re putting your faith in a qualified stylist, trust their expertise and vision. Keep an open mind to their suggestions. You may fall in love with one of the options you hadn’t considered.

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Setting

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• Gold, Platinum & Sterling Silver Jewelry

Our GIA Trained Employees Will Help in Your Diamond Selection

104 Eas t Mason Road, Sidney, Ohio 937- 492- 6937

ww w.allisonscus tomjewelr y.com

Store Hour s

Mon –Wed 9am – 6pm ∙ T hur s 9am –1pm

Fr i 9am – 6pm ∙ S at 9am – 3pm ∙ Closed Sun

Troy, Oh 45373 937-440-1700

6057 Franklin Drive, Celina, Oh 45822 419-268-1800

Celina: Monday-Friday: 8am–5pm Saturday by appointment only

www.ReliableRentalInc.com

GIFYYY PHOTO BOOTH

• Newest generation photo booth

• Unlimited gifs & stills

• Instant text message delivery

• Unlimited sharing on social media

• Bulk download of all gifs and stills after event

TENTS

Poles, Frame, ClearSpan Structure, or Century

SIDEWALLS

Windows or Solid

Tables Chairs

Linens Floorings

Staging

Dance Floor Stanchions

Restroom Trailer Lighting Concession

Bars Inflatables

Pipe and Draping

Crowd Control Panels

• Custom Made Bands

Design, Casting, Gem

• Colored Gem Stones

DR. ZACH STUEVE

Dutiesof DutiesofThe Wedding Party The Wedding Party

BEST MAN

• Plans and coordinates bachelor party

• Pays for his own attire and accessories

• Helps coordinate groomsmens’ fittings

• Attends rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

• Makes sure groom arrives on time

• Oversees duties of groomsmen and ushers

• Hands bride’s ring to officiant

• Signs marriage certificate as legal witness

• Responsible for giving the officiant and other professionals their payments

• Makes sure the couple’s car awaits them

• Returns groom’s attire to rental shop

MAID OR MATRON OF HONOR

• Plans and coordinates a bridal shower

• Helps with addressing of invitations

• Pays for her own dress and accessories

• Coordinates bridemaids’ dress fittings

• Attends rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

• Assists bride in getting dressed

• Oversees bridesmaids’ responsibilities

• Arranges bride’s veil & train during ceremony

• Holds bride’s bouquet during ceremony

• Hands groom’s ring to the officiant

• Signs marriage certificate as a legal witness

• Helps bride change into going-away outfit

GROOMSMEN

• Pay for their own attire and accessories

• Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

• Assist with set-up and clean-up duties

• Escort the bridesmaids

• Oversee transfer of gifts to a secure location after the reception

BRIDESMAIDS

• Pay for their own dress and accessories

• Co-host bridal shower with maid of honor

• Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

USHERS

• Pay for their own attire and accessories

• Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

• Assist with set-up

• Seat guests

• Seat mother of the groom in right front row and bride’s mother in left front row

• Unroll aisle runner

• Straighten up following the ceremony

• Oversee transfer of gifts after reception

FLOWER GIRL

• Parents pay for her attire, attend the rehearsal dinner and wedding

• Carries basket of flowers, walks before the bride during processional, stands next to the maid/matron of honor during ceremony, and follows the bridal couple during recessional

RING BEARER

• Parents pay for his attire, attend the rehearsal dinner and wedding

• Carries a pillow with rings tied to it

• Walks down the aisle with or after flower girl

ADDITIONAL PARTICIPANTS

• Scripture reader during the ceremony

• Soloist during the ceremony

• Person(s) to hand out programs

• Person to attend guest book

• Person to oversee gift table

CHOOSING THE RIGHT

Wedding Venue Wedding Venue

Wedding planning requires couples to make many decisions, including where the wedding will take place.

A couple’s wedding day is typically broken into two parts: the ceremony comes first, and the reception follows soon after. Depending on couples’ preferences and religious beliefs, ceremonies may take place at a house of worship or another location that is separate from the reception venue. In some instances, couples may choose one location for both the ceremony and the party to follow. Wedding venues are where the bulk of the day will unfold, and couples can consider these four tips to find a venue that suits their needs.

1. CONSIDER YOUR THEME.

Most couples know which sentiments they want to convey during their weddings. The venue should match the theme so the entire wedding will feel connected to the space. A modern wedding, for example, will be at home in an art gallery or warehouse. A wedding with natural elements may work better on a ranch or in a botanical garden. Zeroing in on the wedding style helps narrow down potential venue options.

2. ASSESS THE BUDGET.

A couple may find what seems to be the perfect venue, only to realize that the cost of the space doesn’t fit their budget. Ampersand Travel says the venue accounts for the most significant wedding expense, at an average cost of $9,000. Finding a venue that will maximize dollars spent involves looking at what is included. Rentals for chairs, linens, lighting, a dance floor, and other extras can quickly add up. Couples should have a set limit they’re willing to spend on the venue and let that dictate the location.

A Beautiful Setting for your wedding or special event

3. AVAILABILITY OF THE LOCATION.

When a couple wants to get married may determine their venue options, especially if they’re planning on a budget. September and October are now the most popular months to get married, so venues will book up quickly during that time of year. Those who have their hearts set on specific days will have to begin the search earlier than couples with no attachment to a particular date.

4. THE SIZE OF YOUR GUEST LIST. Price, date and style will factor into wedding venues, but the number of guests also is a major consideration. A trendy restaurant may seem like the perfect locale, but it must be able to accommodate everyone on the guest list. Couples should sit down with their families and come up with a list of potential guests and look for a venue that can accommodate everyone. Couples also should visit potential venues in person to see which, if any, details might be missing from online or magazine advertisements. A host of factors, including accessibility, should be considered when looking for a venue.

We have the perfect gathering place to create your own canvas

Romer’s Catering

Experience the Difference

romerscatering.com

• DJ Service

• Event Coordinator

• Chef Prepared Meals

• Decor Packages

• On-Site Ceremony

• Rehearsal Dinner Space

Have you already picked the location for your wedding?

Whether it is a Romer’s venue or a location elsewhere, make the food unforgettable. Let Romer’s Catering serve a delicious meal your guests will rave about and remember!

Lodging Options

Dress Shopping Dress Shopping

BY: ANNE PUTHOFF

Shopping for a wedding dress is something most girls start dreaming of when they’re young. In the dream they see themselves surrounded by all their favorite women moved to tears after they emerge in “The Gown” just like in the movies or the reality TV shows. Sometimes that’s how it happens, but sometimes too many opinions get in the way and the experience becomes confusing, stressful, and even a little out of control. Here’s one store’s advice on how to make your shopping experience as productive and stress free as possible.

The best thing you can do for yourself starting out is limit the number of people in your shopping entourage Bring a few people whose opinions you trust to be positive and have your best interest at heart. “But that’s my whole wedding party!” you might say. Maybe it is, but think about who you REALLY want helping you make this big decision and bring only them with you on the initial visit. This will help eliminate too much “Try this on just for me, Pleeeeaase?!” and give you what you need: good, solid advice. We know how important all the women in your wedding party are to you or they wouldn’t be in the wedding. Make them feel important on a return visit to help choose between the top two or three gowns, or do a big reveal of your gown when you all come back to choose bridesmaids dresses. They will still feel special and included to be among the first to see your wedding dress.

STRESS

We love children, but sometimes they can interfere with the focus of a bridal appointment. If bringing your or your wedding party’s children is truly unavoidable, most stores will accommodate them in a friendly way. You can help by bringing a favorite toy or a (non-messy) snack. If possible, make arrangements for someone else to watch the kids so the grownups can shop.

Do your research! There is so much information available online and in bridal magazines today that you can easily check out what a store has to offer before you arrive. Take at least a little time to look through current styles so you give your consultant an idea of what you’re looking for. Even sharing what you don’t like is a place to start.

Have a realistic budget in mind and stick to it. Or if you decide to exceed it, know what you can actually spend. A good bridal consultant who knows their inventory can usually help you find the look you want at a price you can afford. They may pull a sample sale dress or a less expensive version of a style you like if it will help you get what you want. Unless you have an iron will, don’t try on the gown that’s $1,000 over your budget. If you let yourself fall in love with something you can’t have, it can take the fun out of the appointment quickly.

Keep an open mind. Your consultant helps brides find the gown they’ve been looking for every day. Offer suggestions and state your budget, then after you’ve tried on a few gowns you’ve chosen, allow your consultant to make suggestions and pull a few things to try. Stylists see these dresses on people all the time and know which gowns may not look like much on the hanger, but can work their figure-flattering magic once on the body.

Understand how much you can do in one visit. Some brides can choose their gown, accessories, and even bridesmaids’ dresses in one visit, but most can’t. This is a big decision, so don’t stress yourself by putting too much pressure on one day. It’s often easier to make a decision about your gown that sets the tone for the rest of the wedding party. Follow up with a Finishing Touches appointment if you didn’t choose shoes, veil, headpiece, jewelry, and other accessories on your first visit. Finally, bring your bridesmaids in to get their dresses ordered and accessories chosen. Again, this is advice from just one store, but it comes from years of experience working with thousands of brides and the ones they love. Wishing you a wonderful shopping experience and, more importantly, a fantastic marriage!

BY: ANNE PUTHOFF

Bling Bling

Accessories for brides have evolved in the last couple of decades from a single strand of pearls and floral sprays with attached veils to elaborate tiaras with separate veils to today’s newest looks in headpieces and jewelry. Simpler wedding gowns are leading brides to choose classic and vintage inspired pieces to add the perfect finishing touches to the bride’s ensemble. Grandma’s pearls are definitely in style, as are multi-strand necklaces and crystal earrings. For those who want a more understated look, smaller but equally as beautiful styles are also available. Belts are showing up on gowns for brides, their mothers and their bridesmaids, adding sparkle to the wedding day and a customized look to the wedding party.

Jeweled headbands are giving way to headpieces featuring a variety of faux gems including rhinestones, pearls, opals and crystals of various colors. Worn on the side or back of the head affixed by a comb or clip, it gives the bride’s hairstyle a finished look even if the veil is removed at some point. Variety is still the key word for veils. Styles vary from short, shoulder lengths to flowing cathedral length. Beaded and embroidered edges are still popular, and the simple cut edge veil with no embellishments is making a comeback. Veils are still primarily separate from the headpieces, allowing the bride to remove her veil at the reception while keeping her headpiece incorporated into her hairstyle.

Many brides find it easiest to choose their accessories while wearing the gown they’ve chosen. If you didn’t select your “finishing touches” when you purchased your gown, or you would like to try some family heirlooms with your dress, make an appointment at your bridal salon and let their experienced staff help you complete your look.

Flowers Flowers

Move over bouquets and centerpieces. Flowers are taking over weddings in a big way. While wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place at the wedding table. The bride and groom’s choice and how they decide to display them can say a lot about the couple’s style. Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating elsewhere into their occasions, such as in cakes and clothing. Large flower installations, as well as blooms popping up in unexpected places, are some of the hot trends for couples to keep their eyes on.

FLORAL CHANDELIERS

There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments. Thanks to hanging flowers and floral chandeliers, flowers are quite literally moving up in the world. Hanging floral pieces can add instant drama and make a large visual impact. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems or floral swags. Hanging floral chandeliers are dramatic but naturally expensive. Think about a large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.

WELCOME WREATHS

Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.

FAIRY-TALE FLOWERS

A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms. Couples who would like a fairy-tale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception. Martha Stewart Weddings says a cascade of flowers and greens can be romantic and elegant.

DANCE FLOOR BLOOMS

Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor, or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet.

Deadlines Deadlines & Details & Details

12 months +

☐ Select date, time and place. Then reserve venues!

☐ Decide on wedding size & style.

☐ Hire wedding consultant (if applicable) and create wedding website.

☐ Shop for gown.

☐ Begin guest list.

9-12 months

☐ Research honeymoon destinations.

☐ Book musicians, Dj, florist, photographer, videographer and limousines.

☐ Order invitations.

☐ Purchase gown and begin alterations.

☐ Ask friends to be in wedding party and order bridesmaid dresses.

6-9 months

☐ Finalize guest list & send save-the-date cards.

☐ Book appointments for hair, nails and make-up.

☐ Reserve attire for groom and groomsmen.

☐ Order cake(s).

☐ Purchase rings.

3-6 months

☐ Secure bridal accessories (such as shoes, jewelry, garter and mementos)

☐ Give musicians a list of songs you want them to play (or to avoid).

☐ Make food choices with venue.

2 months

☐ Mail invitations.

1 month

☐ Give photographer a list of pictures you want taken.

1 week

☐ Give final head count to reception venue.

The day before

☐ Hold rehearsal ceremony and dinner.

☐ Deliver everything to site and work out any kinks.

☐ Give marriage license to officiant.

☐ Present gifts to wedding party, parents and any other honored guests.

The day of

☐ Give rings & officiant’s fee to best man.

PICTURE PERFECT WEDDING DAY

Photography Tips Photography Tips

Few things document weddings more effectively than photographs. Carefully curated wedding albums and portraits hung on walls serve as daily reminders of a couple’s special day.

Photography is often left in the very qualified hands of professional photographers. However, couples can pitch in to make their photos really pop. These picture pointers from industry insiders can help couples put their best smile forward.

LEAVE AMPLE TIME

A carefully orchestrated timeline can ensure photos are the best they can be. Why? Because a couple who is relaxed and not overwhelmed will notice that attitude translates to their photographs. When planning wedding timelines, couples should leave ample opportunities for getting dressed, chatting with the wedding party and going through various photography settings to grab great photos, advise the experts at Martha Stewart.

PUT TOGETHER A SHORT LIST

The photographer will have his or her ideas of which shots to cover, but a couple with specific goals in mind should relay that information to their photographer. For example, if a grandparent is getting up in years, request some solo photos of that person so you can look back on happy times together. Certain couples want to be snapped posing with a beloved pet. Putting that on the list helps ensure it will happen.

ENLIST A PHOTO COORDINATOR

If the photographer does not have his or her own assistant, recruit someone who is assertive to help wrangle everyone for the family shots. Attempt to get family photos when family members are relaxed but not too far rumpled by dancing or having a good time.

PLAY YOUR STYLE SAFE

A wedding day is not a time for the bride or groom to try a dramatic new style, according to photographer Amanda Lamb. Resist the urge for a daring cut or color. It’s also likely not the place to try out new facial hair or heavy makeup. A couple unaccustomed to the way they look may be shy in front of the camera.

DELVE INTO THE DETAILS

Prepare wedding details, like gowns, shoes, accessories, etc., in advance to save time once the photographer arrives, suggests Desi Mendoza, a pro from Dez and Tam Photography. Invest in a beautiful hanger for the wedding gown as well, because you may want to photograph that on its own.

LEARN TO POSE

Couples can practice posing in front of mirrors to get a feel for body positions that put them in their best light. A photographer’s advice in regard to posture is invaluable as well. Create space between arms and the body and learn how to angle the body so you look your best. Photos will capture wedding day memories forever. Couples can put themselves in the best positions for success by following some photography guidelines.

“capturing