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The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
Wedding Invitations
trends 2011
Are you a style-conscious celebrity watcher, eager to catch the newest trend in wedding gowns? Do you scour bridal mags looking for the best fashion forward ideas? Fashionistas everywhere know that stylish wedding invitation ideas are just as important as the wedding favors or the floral arrangements. Look for these top trends in the best wedding invitations for 2011: Mix-n-Match - Coordinating bridesmaids' dresses are becoming the go-to fashion for the new year. Reflect this in your invites by using mix-n-match stationery. For instance, use a solid-colored invitation with a fun striped or patterned reply card. Another option is to mix and match colors in opposite colors of the spectrum or by using coordinating shades. Splash 'em with color - Lately stylish brides have been spicing up the traditional white wedding gown with flashes of color. If you're choosing this bridal runwayinspired style, let your stationery follow suit. Try a white or ivory invitation trimmed with a color that matches the colors in your bridal gown. Be green - Whether you're an honest-to-goodness tree hugger or a woman who just wants to make a difference in the environment, some of the best wedding invi-
tations for 2011 are eco-friendly. From paper made with up to 100% recycled products to invites embedded with seeds that can be planted in your guests' gardens, it's possible to find invites that are easy on the eyes--and easy on the earth. Go neutral - One of the hottest new trends in wedding stationery is using metallic’s as neutral colors. Earthy bronzes, elegant platinum’s, and opulent gold’s are guaranteed to add shimmer and shine to fashion-forward invites. Wow your guests with shimmery, silvery paper or classic golden borders. Custom wedding stationery - Some of the best wedding invitations for 2010 are customized invites that let your personality shine through. By working with a wedding stationery specialist, you can customize invites, from selecting your own font and ink colors to one-of-a-kind images. Frugal is fashionable - DIY kits are a top wedding invitation idea trend, allowing brides to print invites or other matching cards, such as thank you’s, on high-quality paper using a home computer. You'll save a few bucks on printing and, as a bonus, will have complete control over how the invites look. Remember, don't let your quest for style get in the way of your wedding day. Ultimately, the best wedding invitations for your c e re mo ny a re the ones you like. So find wedding invitations that match your own personal taste and style.
The Anatomy of a Wedding Invitation Wedding Invitations can include a number of enclosures, depending on the nature of your wedding and your stationery budget. (obviously more enclosures means higher costs) * Outer envelope: Holds all enclosures, formally addressed to the recipient. * Inner envelope: Holds all contents of the formal, thirdperson invitation for protection during shipping. * Reception card: Specifies where and when the reception will be held - usually included only if the ceremony and reception take place at different locations. * Response card: On which your guests indicate acceptance or regrets. In self-addressed stamped envelope. Make sure to include an RSVP deadline. * Map/Directional: Optional insertion to help guests navigate and arrange for accommodations Cost ... Budget Considerations Before you go shopping, become familiar with the invitation printing process and lingo; this will help you determine your needs in advance and avoid unnecessary costs. Price is determined per invitation, so if your guest list is huge - be prepared to designate a significant portion of your budget to wedding invitations. Costs can range anywhere from $1-$50 each. Bulky papers, colored inks and unique graphics all increase the cost. Custom designs can also be pricey. Printing options also affect the cost. Invitation Printing Options: * Engraving - most formal and most expensive - results in raised print that is pressed through the back * Thermography - less expensive than engraving - results in raised print that does not press through the back * Lithography - less expensive than either engraving or theromography - results in print that is neither raised nor pressed through * Laser printing - the least expensive option. - produced on a laser printer and results in print similar to that of lithogThe 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011 5
trends 2011 • invitations raphy. When factoring total costs, don't forget to consider postage as part of your budget, including stamps for the response card envelopes. Looking for ways to save? Keep your design simple, sticking to one color. Use lighter weight papers and include less inserts. Use response postcards instead of cards with envelopes. More tips on finding cheap wedding invitations can be found at this guide to budget-friendly stationery.
nvited I e r You’
Tips, Rules ... Etiquette * When to send them - send wedding invitations 6-8 weeks before the big day. (if you think your guests will need more advanced notice, send save-the-date cards as well) Try to order invitations 3-4 months in advance to ensure they go out on time. * How many to order - Order about 25% more than the number of guests you're inviting - you're bound to make mistakes or make last minute additions. * Consider hiring a calligrapher for an added touch of elegance. (this is the first impression of your wedding!) Make sure to factor in the additional timing to ensure your invitations go out on time. Many rules apply to wording and addressing invitations. Here are some of the basics to ensure yours are "faux pas-free": Invitation Wording Etiquette * Dates and times should be spelled out (half after four o'clock in the evening, not 4:30pm, and the twenty-second of
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The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
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April, not April 22) * Mr. and Mrs. are abbreviated and Jr. may be, but the title Doctor should be spelled out * No punctuation is used, except after abbreviations and between the city and state. * An invitation to just the wedding ceremony does not include an R.S.V.P * "Hosting" the wedding can mean anything from a set of parents helping to plan the event, inviting the guests, or covering the costs: If there is one set of hosts, list their names at the beginning. If both sets are hosting, list on separate lines with bride's parents first. If one set is hosting but you want to include the other set as well, note their names under their son/daughter's name. If you are hosting your own wedding, begin with the request line and state parent's relationship under your name. If you and both sets of parents are hosting, list your names
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invitations • trends 2011 first followed by "together with their parents" before the request line. Addressing Etiquette * No abbreviations, except for Mr., Mrs., Ms., and Jr. States must also be spelled out. * If one of your single guests is bringing a date that you know personally, send that person a separate invitation instead of including "... Guest" on the inner envelope. * If you are unable to obtain the name of a single friend's guest - indicate on the inner envelope that they may bring a guest - NOT on the outer envelope. (this looks awkward) * Unmarried couples who live together should receive one invitation, where their names are listed in alphabetical order and on their own lines. * Invited guests who are living together as roommates, not couples, should each receive their own invitation. * List the names of children under the age of 18 who still live at home on the inner envelope instead of "... Family" which
can be very ambiguous and easily misinterpreted. Children over the age of 18 should receive their own invitation, regardless of their living situation. * The traditional, married couple recipient should follow this format: Mr. ... Mrs. Ryan Parker 2211 First Street, Apartment 3 San Diego, California 92109 Wedding Invitation Wording Samples Gone are the days when wedding etiquette mandated that the bride's parents, and the bride's parent's only, hosted the wedding. Today anyone can foot the bill, and with modern familial arrangements often anything but nuclear,
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there is no straightforward rule for wording invitations. We've sorted through the confusion to bring you wording samples for the most common arrangements. Simple, Traditional Format [proper names of those hosting] (official hosts line) request the honour of your presence (request line) at the marriage of their [relation-
ship of the bride to the host] [bride's first and middle names] to [groom's full name], the [day of the week] of [day and month of wedding] at [hour] o'clock in the [time of day] at [name of wedding venue] in [city, state] Reception to follow Divorced Parents [proper name of host] requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of [his/her] [relationship of the bride to the host] Or, if parent is remarried and hosting with new spouse: [proper names of those hosting] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of [his/her] [relationship of the bride to the host] Or, if divorced parents are mutually hosting: [proper name of mother] and [proper name of father] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their [relationship of the bride to the host] When the Bride's One Living Parent is Hosting The invitation is issued only in the name of the living parent: Mr. [Mrs.] Jonathan Stephen Smith and Timothy Wright requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of his [her] daughter Elizabeth Ann When the Bride and Groom Host The honour of your presence is requested it the marriage of Miss Ashley Johnson to Mr. Paul Wilkins OR Miss Ashley Johnson and Mr. Paul Wilkins request the honour of your presence at their marriage Alternative "Request Line" Options * "pleasure of your company" * "honor of your presence" (used instead of the formal "honour" when ceremony does not take place in a house of worship) * "share and celebrate in their joy" - another creative idea that reflects the theme and tone of your wedding
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
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Wedding Gown
trends 2011
There is one thing which is instantly noticeable when previewing the Spring 2011 wedding gown collections, which is a shift in the prevalent silhouettes and necklines. Strapless, if it ever went anywhere, is back with a vengeance. There are are just a few stragglers of the one shoulder neckline which has been so hot for the last two bridal seasons. While a few gowns with straps of various kinds (particularly illusion straps) were in evidence, for the most part, strapless once again reigns supreme. Something else which is a strong trend for 2011 wedding dresses is that the silhouettes of the gowns have gotten slimmer. There were a number of soft sheath dresses on the runways, and far fewer ballgowns than in seasons past. Even at classic designers like Christos, the sheath and the A-line
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gown were far more common than a full ballgown. The other top silhouette is the trumpet, which remains popular. Another carry over from 2010 is the emphasis on the natural waistline. This trend away from a dropped waist started with the 1950s inspired bridal gowns, and is very strong for 2011. The natural waist is emphasized by sashes, bows, and origami folds in soft materials like organza. If you have been pondering a non-white wedding gown, you will find some options in the Spring 2011 collections. Vera Wang did several gowns in a pale dove gray in transluWeddings at the Rose Hill Inn cent mate“We can’t thank you enough for making our wedding day so magical...We do promise to come back and see you again. It was our perfect dream wedding.” rials such as organza and gray tulle. Fashion forward as ever, the Vera Wang collection featured a lot of folding and avant-garde draping, particularly on the skirts. Frothy, drapey, and very unique, these softly colored bridal gowns may be just The Rose Hill Inn is the perfect place to host your wedding, reception, rehearsal dinner or elopement. Beautiful parlors can accommodate indoor groups, while there is a charming what the chic bride ordered. Victorian gazebo for larger, outdoor events. Rose Hill can fulfill all of your individual wedding needs, including flowers, refreshments, photography, and music. And in addition to custom weddings, several wedding or elopement packages begin under $1000.00. Femininity is a major influence on the 2011 collections. Romantic fabrics like lace, organza, and tulle are much more widely used than shiny materials like silk satin The Rose Hill Inn (except at the always glam1110 Verona Rd Marshall, MI 49068 orous Platinum by Priscilla 269-789-1992 http://marshallweddings.com of Boston, although even
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
their designs were less heavily embellished than in some seasons). Any bride who is looking for a wedding gown which is romantic and feminine will definitely find it. This is not to say that the designs are saccharine; in fact there is still quite a bit of action at the bottoms of the gowns, with asymmetrical gathering, pleating, pulling, and ruching abounding. There are definitely some fresh new looks in the Spring 2011 wedding gown collections, as well as styles which build upon previous designs. The key words are feminine, fashion-forward, and soft for the upcoming year. Slimmer silhouettes and less shimmer trends away from the "princess bride" look in favor of something more sophisticated. There will certainly be many wonderful wedding dresses from which a 2011 bride can choose.
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Bridesmaid‘s Dresses
trends 2011
For the past few years, bridesmaid dress trends have been influenced heavily by the economic downturn and its aftermath. Though the economy is looking sunnier, a lot of the trends from previous seasons have held over and evolved into what bridesmaids will be wearing this spring! The biggest trend in bridesmaid dresses has been kneelength dresses. Though many brides are still putting their bridesmaids in tea and floor length gowns, shorter lengths have become increasingly popular in recent years. Kneelength, cocktail-style dresses are much more likely to be worn again, so brides who want their bridal party to be able to reuse their dresses more easily have been moving toward shorter dresses. You can never guarantee wear ability for everyone, but by keeping reuse potential in the back of your mind, you'll be doing your bridesmaids a big favor. The strapless dress also still holds its own, for bridal gowns and for bridesmaid dresses. Many, if not most, of the dresses for spring 2011 are strapless, an elegant style that emphasizes the neck and shoulders in a classically feminine way. A strapless bridesmaid dress that has been properly fitted to its wearer is one of the most flattering styles around. Just be sure to invest in a quality strapless bra! One-shouldered dresses are also rapidly growing in popularity. The unique, asymmetrical shape of a one-shouldered bridesmaid dress suits brides who want a bridal party
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with a fashion-forward edge. The single shoulder strap can be delicate, for a feminine look, or bolder, for a more sassy and urban appearance. Feminine touches like lace, floral, bead, and sequin embellishment are back in a big way, as are soft chiffons. Many bridesmaid dresses for Spring 2011 are somewhat more body conscious than in recent years, using sashes, bows, and ruching in order to emphasize the natural waist for a classic and feminine look. Popular colors for spring 2011 are brights like apple green, fuchsia, coral, amethyst, emerald, orange, and yellow. New classics like grey, navy, and chocolate brown will make a return appearance as well. Finally, the trend away from a completely matching bridal party to a more relaxed, colorcoordinated but not identical group of bridesmaids is still going strong. More and more brides are letting their bridesmaids each choose a personally flattering and appealing dress in a selected
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
color pa lette. By selecting the style of bridesmaid dresses on their own, bridesmaids will be sure to always have a dress that they love. Regardless of the style, color, and cut of your bridesmaids dresses, in Spring 2011 the biggest trend is to make the saying "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" be a little less depressing by providing your bridesmaids with beautiful and wearable dresses that they will love forever.
Wedding Rings
trends 2011
Almost every culture exchanges a wedding ring as a symbol of their love and commitment at a wedding ceremony. But over the generations, taste and style has somewhat altered and changed. Wedding rings have become more varied than ever before due to a bigger variation in designs and metals. Here are a few rings set to be favorites in 2011 and beyond. In 2011, we are set to continue past trends, as one of the biggest favorites will be the diamond wedding ring. The most popular metal to go with the diamond is likely to be the ever popular platinum, which outshines other white metals, as well as outlasts. Diamond clusters small and large will be upon most grooms and brides lists, as they look great on both men's and women's wedding rings. For men's platinum diamond rings, favorite patterns are likely to include geometrical, straight lines and triangular shapes with a less interior rounded edge (a soft or flat court band). 2011's Platinum trend will see women adorning their hand with thin wedding band with clusters of diamonds. Particular favorites, as we have already seen in the past few years,
will be rings covered in a straight band of combination of two different colored metals, such as small diamonds, rings encrusted with gold and white-gold in order to add an attracone large diamond surrounded by smaller tive finish and modern style to the ring. It diamonds and platinum diamond rings has been already used in simple patterned with one single cushion or oval shaped wedding rings as a distinguishable patdiamond. terned line, which gives any man's Another striking trend will be patterned or woman's ring a stylish touch. A wedding rings, a familiar favorite in the last weaving wedding ring has also few years. Patterned rings are probably a favorite become a popular look due to its due to their versatility and variety. From the bold simplistic and interesting style. and strong looking engraved lines to complicated Celtic Weaving wedding rings often use patterns, the patterned wedding ring is ideal for those who a strong metal, such as gold, whitewant to add a little interest to their wedding rings without gold, palladium and platinum weaved adding a precious gemstone, such in between a thin but strong strip of contrasting colored as a diamond. metal. A further trend is the Plain wedding rings are still likely to be the utmost favorite in 2011, due to their shinning beauty. A plain wedding ring brings more focus upon the metal, rather than a pattern or a stone, allowing you and other to appreciate the beauty of the metal. Moreover, plain wedding rings can be altered to your unique style as a couple, enabling you to exchange rings that are somewhat more personally designed. GFS MARKETPLACE© COUPON
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The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
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2011 step-by-step
Wedding P lanning Guide
Some might say that one's wedding day is the most important day of their lives. It is a union that is only surpassed by the birth of one's children. The key to a happy and well organized wedding is preparation and organization. That is the goal of this step by step wedding planning guide. Some may think that all the hype about wedding planning is just overplay; however that is not the case. Planning your wedding can be one of the most complicated things to do; especially if you don't prepare yourself for the long list of things that need to be done. This quick little wedding checklist should help you get all aspects of your wedding moving in the right direction. The Breakdown Let's break down planning your wedding into 3 sections. First we will talk about the budget, location, guest list and theme for the wedding. Once we have a direction on the where; we will move to the when. Those are the first and foremost things that need to be considered and decided before any further steps are taken. Then we will move over to all the booking and reservations that are involved with wedding planning. This would include aspects like catering, the band and the photographer. The last thing that we will cover in this wedding checklist will be the maid of honor and the bridesmaids; the best man and the groomsmen; the ushers, the ring bearer and the flower girls. Section One The first thing to consider when you begin planning your wedding is the budget. This is usually a touchy subject; as it is traditionally the parents of the bride who will foot the bill. However; now that we have entered the 21st century; just like many other common traditions; the parents are no longer expected to carry all of the financial weight. The funds can come from anywhere; but the most important thing is getting a realistic estimate of what you will have to spend. Once you know how much you can spend; you know how much you can afford.
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The next thing on the wedding checklist in this step by step wedding planning guide is the guest list. Many think that this is the hardest part of wedding planning because it has to be based around the budget. Deciding how many are going to be on your guest list does take precedence, to most people, over the location and theme. This is because of how special this day is. It all revolves around how many close friends and family members you want to share your special day with. Some may want to decide the location, theme and guest list all at once; as these will be the major contributors to the overall expense. Either way; the guest list is a crucial factor when considering the realistic budget you have to divvy up for the other aspects of your wedding. Now the wedding checklist comes to the location and theme. The further ahead that you book the place in which you want to have the wedding ceremony; the cheaper it will be. Some people are very traditional and want to be married in a church; but for those who want to choose another special place; there are many alternate locations to consider when planning your wedding. Here are some ideas for planning your wedding location: * The Park * The Beach * A Place of Historical Significance * A Place of Personal Significance * At A Family or Friends Home * Overseas Once you have decided on the location; the theme is next on the wedding checklist. The theme and location sometimes go hand in hand. For example; if you choose to have a beach wedding; then the theme will most likely be based around a luau of some sort. After choosing a theme to match your budget, location and guest list; you can move onto the more intricate pieces of planning your wedding; like the actual reservations and bookings. (See section two of this step by step wedding planning guide) The final aspect covered in this wedding planning sec-
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
tion is all about the when. Ask yourself: When do I want to have my wedding? There are 12 months every year. Some are warm; some are cool; some are hot; some are cold. You may want to choose a special time of year that is significant to you both when planning your wedding date. This could be a reminder of when you met, based around a special holiday that you shared, or just simply your favorite time of the year. People come in all different likes and dislikes; meaning the groom may want to have the wedding in the dead of winter; while the bride may want the flowers to be blooming while she walks down the aisle. Coming to a compromise on the time of year to have the wedding is only one of the many compromises that will need to be made throughout the wedding planning stages. Section Two This part of the wedding checklist covers the reservations and booking of all the fine details of a wedding; this includes everything from the caterer to the band; from the wedding location to the photographer. When planning your wedding; if one thing is not reserved or booked correctly it could throw the whole wedding off course. Double checking and then triple checking again can never hurt. The last thing anyone would want is to show up at their wedding location and there be nothing there set up. For the most part; booking and scheduling your wedding activities months prior to the actual wedding will save lots of money. Last minute weddings always tend to cost more than ones that are scheduled way ahead of time. This next section basically consists of the more intricate and detailed tasks that are outlined in this step by step wedding planning guide. This is instrumental to the overall flow of the wedding in general. You will need to choose a caterer for the reception meal. The catering company needs to be reliable, professional at what they do and most importantly offer quality of service and great food. Caterers can provide testing samples during your decision stages to assure that the proposed menu will meet the tastes of the bride and
groom. Coordinating the music is usually a pretty easy aspect of planning your wedding. All that is really needed is a musician, band or DJ that can be versatile enough to meet the music likings of the bride and groom. It is important to seek out a semi professional band; as one of the worst things would be if they never even showed up. You would also want to look for someone who has experience with weddings; as they will need to entertain the guests and keep the mood and events of the reception flowing; leading your guests through a series of predesigned reception events. So at this point of the wedding checklist; one must first look at the type of music that the married to be couple enjoys together. This same logic applies to choosing your photographer; as this is an important decision because the pictures taken will be wedding keepsakes forever. Section Three This is the final section in this wedding checklist and it covers the wedding party. This part of wedding planning may just be the toughest. Choosing the actual wedding party is very important; not only to the bride and groom; but to the ones who are chosen. It is a great honor for most to be chosen as a best man or maid of honor; that's a given; but it is also an honor to just be chosen to participate as a bridesmaid, groomsmen, flower girl and/or ring bearer. This is usually what makes up the wedding party; though additional roles and positions can be added or removed depending on the bride and grooms wishes. In Review Though there are other aspects of planning your wedding that should be on your wedding checklist; this Step By Step Wedding Planning Guide should get you well on your way to making the appropriate arrangements and decisions. The key thing to remember when planning your wedding is the budget. Once you know how much you have to spend; everything else will fall into place! The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
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Wedding F avors
trends 2011
Wedding favors with the bride and groom's name on are very popular at the moment. If you are looking to remind your guests of your special day for years to come, then why not include your names and the date of your wedding on the favor boxes. It is not just boxes that can be personalized, wine bottle labels, stickers, gift tags are just a few of the items that can be printed on. Get creative and present your guests with something truly memorable. Practical wedding favors are a must around your wedding table this year. The Love Birds salt & pepper shaker is a popular favor this year. It's not only practical but is a true symbol of the meaning of your big day. Heart bottle stoppers have been very popular along these lines, but all bottle stoppers can follow the theme. If you are keen on the idea of giving something practical to your guests, table name holders which double up as photo frames are also popular. On the market today there are numerous frames which make great place card holders. A good idea to include with favors of this type is to include a photo of yourselves for your guests to keep as a momentum of your day. Once more, favors of this type have been very popular over the last year. Another popular trend this year is the Wedding CD favor. Couples are choosing to create a CD with their favorite songs included to give out to their guests as a gift. This gives
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their guests an excellent takeaway from the day and can include songs from the evening celebration including your first dance to make it truly special. This is a relatively cheap and truly personalized. Environmentally friendly wedding favors are also a popular emerging trend. Beautiful handmade paper favors that have been scattered with wildflower seeds can be purchased for your guests to plant. These look beautiful on your wedding tables and might even product some beautiful f lowers. Pot plants, beeswax candles are also ever popular as wedding favors this year. Picking any one of these favors for your wedding day will ensure that your guests go home with a happy memory of your wedding day which will last for years to come.
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The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
Wedding Cakes
trends 2011
Much more than a sweet finale to the reception meal, wedding cakes are a major style statement. And trends in wedding cakes, like all other wedding details, evolve with the times. The wedding cake presents a perfect opportunity for creative brides to play with shape, color and embellishments. For those of you who need a little inspiration, consult this list of top trends for wedding cakes in 2011. Back to Buttercream Buttercream was once the traditional frosting for wedding cakes, but sleek cakes came into favor, and rolled fondant became the frosting of choice. Not any more - thanks to advanced tools and techniques that allow buttercream to look as smooth as fondant, cakes iced in buttercream are again the norm. We love this trend, since buttercream frosting tastes better, has natural ingredients, and costs less than fondant. Now you can literally have your stylishly sleek cake – and eat it too. Chocolate Face Brides have bucked the traditional white wedding cake for the last few years, but today´s brides are no longer hidi ng d e c a dent chocolate behind a
shield of white frosting for appearances sake. Dark chocolate is now front and center on the face of the cake, as chocolate or mocha cakes are appropriately decked in chocolate mousse or whipped chocolate frosting. The result is a full blown chocolate dessert that tastes as good as it looks. Blue Rules Shades of blue dominate the 2011 wedding décor palette, and your wedding cake is a perfect canvas to incorporate this hot shade. Consider a cake saturated in turquoise, periwinkle, or even navy, and embellish it with complimenting colors like silver, white, grey, lavender, or yellow. Square Mini Cakes Cupcake towers in lieu of wedding cakes have been around for awhile, but brides are making cupcakes interesting again by playing with shape and size. Brides are stacking square shaped mini-cakes (slightly larger than cupcakes) adorned with f lowers or dressed as presents for a completely different take on the cupcake frenzy. Think Pink Pink – the perpetual hot color for weddings
– had begun to fall out of favor as brides experimented with more non-traditional hues like browns, grays, orange, and even black. But pink is back in a big way, and brides are incorporating the hue into their wedding cakes. Pink instantly freshens-up classic white: Tone down an all pink cake with white floral or lace details, or dress up a white cake with pink embellishments. Scripted Text Wedding cakes adorned with calligraphy-style motifs and writing is one of the year´s hottest trends. Create an antiqued look with black writing on a white or ivory cake, and get creative with the text. Some options? Write a favorite poem or verse, your wedding vows, or words representative of your wedding theme - such as names of flowers for a garden wedding or types of shells at a beach wedding. Groom´s Cakes The old Southern tradition of the groom´s cake is shedding its regional trappings and growing in popularity throughout the nation. And no, it doesn’t´t have to be the iconic red velvet armadillo from "Steel Magnolias." Today´s grooms cakes, now just as elaborate as the wedding cake itself, often reflect the groom´s interest in a dramatic and whimsical expression; a deer grooms cake for an avid hunter, shaped like a race car for an diehard Nascar fan, or decked with his favorite sports team logo.
Historic Bowens Mills, Weddings for a Lifetime ...
Debut Bridal Revue
Saturday, February 12, 2011 ~ 10am to 4pm
Held in the beautiful “Bowens Mills Gathering Place”, this show offers one stop shopping with boutique style designs for everything you’ll need for your big day ... come and be inspired! From cakes to photography, from music to bar service, from gowns to catering, this is the event that you should plan to attend.
Historic Bowens Mills Gathering Place 55 Briggs Rd. Middleville, MI 49333 LJ-0100066069
269-795-7530 ~ www.BowensMills.com The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
15
2011 check list
Wedding Budget
Buying Guide Bride & Family
Engagement Party Bridal Consultant Invitations, announcements, thank you note & other stationary Bride’s attire Groom’s Ring Ceremony expenses (fee for church or temple & accessories) Ceremony programs & guest book Flowers for ceremony & reception Reception expenses (site fee, rentals, catering, food, beverages, gratuity & decoration) Photography & videography Transportation Gifts for attendants Lodging for attendants Bridesmaids’ luncheon
Groom & Family
Bride’s engagement & wedding rings Marriage license Officiant’s fee Groom’s attire Attire accessories for groomsmen Gifts for groomsmen Lodging for groomsmen Flowers for groom, groomsmen, mothers & grandmothers Bride’s bouquet Rehearsal dinner Honeymoon
Bridesmaid & Groomsmen Wedding attire Travel expenses Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Bridal shower
16
Reception - 50%
Estimated
Actual
Ceremony location fees Officiate’s fee Reception site fee Food Cake Beverages Rentals Transportation Parking Tax & Tips
Photographer - 20%
Estimated
Actual
Save-the-Date cards Invitations & envelopes Announcements Programs Place Cards Thank you notes Change of address cards Postage Calligraphy
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
Actual
Flowers
Estimated
Actual
Estimated
Actual
Estimated
Actual
Ceremony decorations Bride’s bouquet Bridesmaids’ flowers Flower girl accessories Corsages Boutonnieres Centerpieces Estimated
Actual
Ceremony Cocktail hour Reception
Stationary - 10%
Estimated
Bride’s Dress Headpiece & veil Bride’s shoes Lingerie Jewelry & accessories Hair & make up Groom’s Tux Groom’s shoes Groom’s accessories Rings
Photographer’s fee Engagement portrait Wedding albums Additional prints Videography Audio recording Candid photos
Music - 20%
Attire
Estimated
Actual
Extras Bridesmaids’s gifts Bridesmaid luncheon Groomsmen’s gifts Child attendants’ gifts Parents’ gifts Gifts to each other Guest room bags Favors Guest book Ring pillow Marriage license Bridal consultant
Total
Wedding F lowers
trends 2011
Choosing the flowers is the fun bit of planning your wedding. There are so many things to decide about when choosing your wedding flowers, including: * Choosing Your Bridal Bouquet * Gent\'s Boutonnieres (buttonholes) * Deciding on Your Flower Colors * Flowers for the Ceremony * Reception Wedding Flowers * Centerpieces * Artificial and Silk Flowers * Tropical Wedding Flowers A lot of the preparation of the flowers is done the day before and the morning of the wedding when the couple and their families are at their busiest and most stressed. Therefore unless the floral displays are very simple it is wise to have them professionally prepared by a wedding florist. When deciding on a florist seek personal recommendations from friends and recently married acquaintances. If you are unable to decide, it is best to visit several and look at their displays. Most florists will allow you visit them at a time when they have prepared flowers for other weddings so that you can see the quality of their work. You should also try to select a florist who actually does wedding flowers for a living, not just run a florist shop. Remember it is is your special day, so find a florist who shows passion, love and commitment for what they do as this way you know you are more likely to be getting the best. Make sure your florist can work within your budget. Decide how much you can afford, then ask your florist for suggestions within this amount. The price of wedding flowers depends on type and availability and the size of the bouquets and decorations. If you are on a tight budget, use flowers that will be in season at the time of your wedding. Or keep things simple: a hand-tied posy of roses looks stunning and is less expensive than an elaborate bouquet. There are several classic shapes of bouquet and good flo-
rists should have a selection of photographs to demonstrate them. The florist should also be able to advise on which flowers match the chosen shape bearing in mind the colour scheme and seasonal availability. The choice of your wedding bouquet depends of the style of your gown. Bouquets can range from the just-pickedfrom-the-garden look, to the tailored-stylised formal look. You should always get a sense of balance between your gown and your bouquet. A fresh-picked bouquet from the garden may look out of place with a very formal gown. The bouquet size should be proportion to the bride. Too large a bouquet would simply overpower the bride and clutter her elegant dress. Buttonholes will match the bride\'s bouquet and blend with the dark lapels of the groom\'s wedding attire. Usually the groom, best man, ushers and fathers of the bride and groom should wear buttonholes although other important guests such as the grandparents may also wear them. Corsages are normally larger than a buttonhole and can be made of the same or similar flowers as those in the bride\'s bouquet. The mothers of the bride and groom will wear corsages and so may the grandmothers and other important guests. Corsages can also be pinned to the lapel as with a buttonhole or alternatively worn on the wrist or attached to a handbag or purse. Some reception venues such as hotels and restaurants often include wedding floral arrangements as part of their overall wedding service. Others may make a separate charge. A lot of venues will allow the couple to provide their own wedding flowers and floral decorations. The venue management should be con-
sulted to arrange a convenient time to set up the displays which will not inconvenience the catering arrangements. The wedding f lower decorations usually consist of a large display just inside the entrance which is seen by guests as they enter the reception room, and arrangements on each of the tables for guests. The top table occupied by the newlyweds usually has a more ornate wedding flower arrangement. Large halls and marquees usually provide plain backgrounds and therefore wedding flower arrangements should be spectacular and large to catch the eye. Decorating with potted plants is a good idea as they can subsequently be used in the newlyweds new home.
LJ-0100065710
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
17
H oneymoon
what to do and not to do
You want your honeymoon to be special and the best it possibly can be. You are looking to have a blast and you want make memories you will cherish forever. Learn from the mistakes of others so you can avoid the problems they experienced. This guide will help you out as you begin planning your vacation. 10 Most Common Honeymoon Mistakes 1. Allowing One Person To Do All The Planning (this is extremely important) This vacation is for the both of you. So in order for both of you to have a good time, there must be activities for each of you to enjoy. If one person does all the planning the other will be left out. We know communication is big in relationships, so this is a great opportunity to talk to each other and figure out what you really want to get out of your trip. 2. Start Planning Your Vacation Too Late. Because the wedding comes first then the honeymoon, people often try to knock out all the wedding plans first and then start planning the vacation. Waiting to the last minute is a big mistake! Wedding planning is an ongoing process and it's not over until the wedding is over. You should start thinking about your trip as you finalize the shoes the bride maids will wear. It's never too early to start planning and you will be able to
save more money by doing this. 3. Planning To Leave The Morning After Your Wedding. You will be extremely Tired. No matter how big or small your ceremony is there is still a lot of energy that goes in to it. If you plan to leave the day after, book your flight in the evening or leave the next day. So if your wedding is on Saturday leave on Sunday evening or Monday morning. This will allow you enough time to make sure you have everything packed and ready to go. 4. Failing To Set A Honeymoon Budget. This is critical. First because by having a budget you won't over spend on your trip as easily. But more so because this too will strengthen the communication in the relationship. If you plan together you will know which activities or services are most important and the money spent on these will take top priority. For example: A beach resort with a suite that has an ocean view can be a must for some, make sure you plan to pay for this rather than a beach resort
with a 5 star restaurant. Waking up to the sun rising off the ocean may do more for you than a gourmet meal. 5. Staying Quiet About Being Newlyweds. It is a must when you book your vacation to let the resort, cruise line, restaurants, the little man selling hot dogs on the beach. Everyone needs to know you are on your honeymoon! There are special perks offered to you because you are celebrating love. So don't miss out by NOT telling people you are honeymooning. 6. Not Planning Enough Time To Relax. Remember a honeymoon is supposed to let you unwind. You will probably be somewhere you have never been before, maybe on an exotic island and you want to do as much as you
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The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
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can. This is OK. But you will be tired so don't try to do everything. On the first day do absolutely nothing just to rest up. Then you will have enough energy to hit the town, beach, clubs, casinos, pubs...etc. Be sure you rest and relax this is important. 7. Not Making Time To Be Alone. This may sound weird, but this is crucial because we all need our personal time. Having time apart is really healthy for the honeymoon also. Once again, if you are making plans together (avoiding mistake 1) you will learn there are some things each of you are just not in to. Use these activities to plan time apart. For example: If the bride wants to get a facial at the spa, the groom might not enjoy this. However, he may be really in to art, but this is not her cup of tea. So while she is getting pampered at the spa, he can check out a local museum. Both parties are getting the vacation they want plus this will give you great pillow talk conversation as you lay in each other arms and discuss your day. 8. Not Knowing How To Pack. Not fully understanding your destination and what you
really want to get out of your pen and you will enjoy it 10 times better. honeymoon can lead to pack- You mentioned Not letting 1 person do all the planning.... ing too much or too little. How do we start working together? Certain activities require First you need to get a solid set of plans to have the best trip more equipment than others. possible. You have to know what you are doing. So be sure to do your home- All your confusion and frustration will begin to lift as you work. work through the exercise. You don't want to get to It is designed for both of your input. - This is how you avoid that world class golf course mistake 1.and have to spend extra on a One person will NOT end planning the whole trip and new set of golf shoes or clubs. both you will have the vacation you truly want. This is 9. Not Taking Advantage Of where you discuss how romantic it will be, or how adventurHoneymoon Registries. ous you are going to get. A honeymoon registry It is very effective and it starts you on the right path to acts like your wedding regis- planning the best honeymoon. try. This allows for your loved ones to pay for different parts You will also learn how to budget, pack, book your trip, of your trip as a gift. You will save a ton of money by using a where you should stay, what you should do, plus a lot more. honeymoon registry. It's pretty neat! 10. Not Going With The Flow You deserve this wonderful vacation and it should compli There are many things that are out of our control, so you ment your beautiful wedding. Look at all the planning that's need to know that something will go wrong. (Whether it does going into making your wedding perfect... or not) Understanding this will prepare you for any mis- No, you don't have to put that same energy in to it, but you takes. need to spend some time learning what you need to make this Don't let anything ruin your vacation. trip special and perfect. Being spontaneous is healthy, just go with the flow and let whatever happens happen. You will be able to joke Kalamazoo County Parks for your outdoor wedding... and laugh about it years United in the presence of nature. from now. This is important because we try to control things all the time. Life doesn't work that way, your wedding is not going to work that way, and also your trip will have some things you might not expect in it. So relax and let this hapLJ-0100066088
The 2011 Battle Creek Enquirer Wedding Guide • January 16, 2011
19
Catering
LJ-0100063418
Banquet Facilities 3 BANQUET ROOMS Accommodate up to 200
RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
• Outdoor Weddings, Wedding Receptions & Rehearsal Dinners • Company Parties • Holiday Parties • Business Meeting • Complete Food & Beverage Service
Paula Tucker Catering ...your catering expert
“Over 20 years experience with literally thousands of satisfied customers”
Home (269) 781-3670 Cell (269) 506-2804
MARSHALL 11401 South Old 27, 2 miles south of the Fountain
789-0058
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Open 7 days a week for Lunch or Dinner LJ-0100065657
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www.PaulaTucker.com
Music
FOR THAT SPECIAL DAY DEMAND CONFIDENCE, EXPERIENCE AND PLANNING.
DELIVER NOTHING LESS 269-967-4596
"We Love Weddings and it Shows!" Located in Coldwater and Jackson
LJ-0100065679 0065679
517-736-4185 • 734-673-1780
LJ-0100065647
Party Supplies (260) 562-2360
One Mile South of Sturgis on St. Rd 9 (M-66), Howe, IN HOURS: Mon., Tue., Wed. 8AM-8PM; Thur,. Fri. 8AM-9PM;, Sat. 8AM-8PM; Sun. 10AM-5PM
PARTY CENTRAL
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We have a large selection of tableware accessories! Including table covers, table skirts, silverware, plates, napkins, cups, confetti, crepe paper, etc. Every item you need to have a beautiful celebration at a low cost. We also have a full line of beer, wine, cigarettes, tobacco, fireworks, lottery, pop and dairy
10% OFF ANY PARTY CENTRAL PURCHASE Tableware, Decorations & Balloons. Expires 12/31/2011
email: prodjsbattlecreek@yahoo.com web: prodjsmichigan.com
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Photography Located in Coldwater and Jackson LJ-0100065680
734-673-1780
517-736-4185
Salons $40 updo special* $60 color & cut*
We Offer:
*select stylists only
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• Color/Highlights • Manicure/Pedicure • Gel Nails
Wedding Parties - Call For Appointments
205 W. Columbia Ave. • (269) 441-8163 Mention this ad when calling. Expires 3/19/2011
• Massage/Facials • NEW! Teeth Whitening • NEW! Body Waxing
85 East Columbia, Battle Creek • 269.288.0178 • www.fancyssalon.com
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Wedding Apparel Battle Creek’s full service bridal store since 1989
Clair’s
TUXEDO OF BATTLE CREEK
We offer a large selection of: INC.
FORMAL WEAR BRIDAL & TUXEDOS
590 W. Columbia Ave • Suite G Battle Creek, MI (near the Hunt Club) LJ-0100063494
(269) 962-0826
LJ-0100065087
Grooms, ask how to get a FREE tuxedo! Also ask about special discounts for ring bearers.
We can order any dress CHECK OUR PRICE BEFORE ORDERING ELSEWHERE Open Sunday Jan. 23rd from 2-5 pm
• Wedding gowns sizes 0-30 • Bridesmaid dresses in 55 colors starting at $99.00 • Tuxedos with 250 vest and tie colors ranging from $69.99-$114.99 • Flower girl dresses • Shoes & jewelry • Tiaras & veils • Gown cleaning & preservation
1400 E. Columbia Ave. • Battle Creek, MI 49014 • 269-962-1111 • www.imagesformalwear.com
Wedding Apparel Lisa’s Boutique Consignment Shop
& Gifts
Come see our nice selection of Wedding Gowns, Mother of Bride & Formals
1552 E. Columbia Ave. - Battle Creek
269.788.9303
Hours: Mon-Fri: 11-5pm • Sat: 11-3pm LJ-0100063498
Women’s New & Recycled Fashions
Now Featuring New & Recycled Wedding Gowns 2545 Capital Avenue SW (Next to Red Lobster) Battle Creek, MI 49015 269-589-6784 www.mystyleyourstyle.com
SEAMSTRESS Formal Wear Sale
Over a Thousand Wedding Gowns! Hours: 8:00AM - 4:30PM 6:00PM - 9:00PM CLOSED WEEKENDS Sherry 269-962-6065
• Alterations • Wedding • Mending
9560 Verona Road Battle Creek, MI 49014
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Wedding Rentals The CanopyMan Rentals
Thomas E. Rome Sr. Owner/Operator LJ-0100065646
7207 11 Mile Road Burlington, MI 49029 Cell: (269) 719-6264 Home: (517) 765-9220
“For More Info Visit
http://members.self-serv.net/terome/
Wedding Sites
LJ-0100065088
Your Wedding Destination Location From our penthouse event space featuring breath-taking views, to our elegantly appointed ballroom, we have everything to make your wedding an exquisite affair. With tasty, gourmet menus and personalized details, let our friendly team of professionals help you create the wedding of your dreams.
Wedding Packages Include Champagne toast White table linens & napkins
Menu tasting Cake cutting service
Chair covers & sashes Complimentary overnight accommodations for the bride & groom
50 Capital Ave SW | Battle Creek, MI 49017 (269) 963.7050 | (888) 622.2659 | www.mccamlyplaza.com
2011 Bridal Show January 23, 2011 Kellogg Arena
1 McCamly Square in Downtown Battle Creek
12 Noon - 3:30 p.m. 70
Over of S.W. Michigan’s finest businesses helping you plan your wedding and start your new life!
Admission $5.00
Parking in Kellogg Arena Ramp $1 for first 2hours. Sponsored by
www.wiserproductions.com For information Call: (269) 329-0486
LJ-0100065984