2016 Western Maine Wedding Guide

Weddings Western Maine

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

The Bethel Citizen { 2016 Season }

Which Dinner Service is Right for Your Wedding?

Responsibilities

Buffet or Sit Down Dinner at the heart of Bethel Weddings

of the Bridal Party

2 Western Maine Weddings

Table of Contents At the Heart of Weddings in Bethel: The Bethel Inn Resort

2-3

Helpful Hints When Planning Floral Arrangements

4

Responsibilities of the Bridal Party

5

Enjoying Your Rehearsal Dinner

6

Clever Takes on the ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue’ Tradition

7

Finding a Wedding Gown That’s Right for You

9

Nail Color is the Finishing Touch to Wedding Day Preparation

10

Which Dinner Service is Right for Your Wedding?

11

At the Heart of Weddings in Bethel

The Bethel Inn Resort, where wedding receptions turn into weekend celebrations…

The Bethel Inn Resort, located in the historic district of Bethel, is the centerpiece for weddings, receptions and rehearsal dinners in the Bethel region.

Last year, thousands of engaged couples visited the “weddings” section on www.bethelinn. com, the resort’s website. More than 300 inquiries led to dozens of receptions hosted in 2015, ranging in size from two dozen to over two hundred attendees. The Bethel Inn Resort is the perfect fit for weddings of any size.

While most take place during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, increasingly, couples are booking during the winter months as well. With the Inn beautifully decorated for the holidays, winter weddings can provide a unique and affordable option for ski and winter enthusiasts. With the popularity of Bethel weddings, it’s important to start planning and reserve early as prime dates fill quickly.

At the center of this wedding activity is Tammy James, The Inn’s wedding coordinator. Tammy and her husband Rick have raised their family in Bethel and, like all the key supervisors at the

Tammy James, Bethel Inn Resort’s Wedding Coordinator Resort, grew into her responsibilities from an entry level position. Tammy started in 1995 as a server in our dining room and now manages

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Western Maine Weddings 3 a segment of the business as important as the resort’s golf and ski operations.

“Our classic New England resort, beautiful grounds and resort amenities have positioned The Bethel Inn Resort perfectly for Bethel’s recent boom in weddings. Our country elegant Main Dining Room and our signature ceremony site on the 18th fairway are the sought after locations at The Inn, Tammy said. “Even when we are not the reception venue, many of the wedding guests stay with us, or enjoy our recreational facilities and golf course. And we often host some of their events like a rehearsal dinner or send-off breakfast.”

What sets Bethel apart from the traditional venues are the many astounding ceremony sites, taking advantage of Bethel’s natural setting. Among them are its impressive mountain vistas, classic New England charm showcased on the Village Common and Gazebo, the nearby Artist’s covered bridge, and the panoramic view on the 18th hole of The Bethel Inn Resort’s golf course overlooking Sunday River and the Mahoosuc Mountains.

“The growth in other local venues available is so important,” said Tammy. “Couples love the diversity of venues and options in the region and this helps the exposure for Bethel as a wedding destination. Many times, after a visit to Bethel, couples choose The Inn because of the inclusiveness of our offerings and ability to provide a complete resort atmosphere for their guests.”

According to Brad Jerome, the resort’s sales and marketing manager, “Couples are always amazed about how affordable our wedding packages are. With inclusive packages starting at $49 per person and discounted lodging rates for guests, we have the unique ability to provide a complete and affordable wedding package that will surely satisfy every couple’s taste & budget.”

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During your visit to Bethel, stop by The Bethel Inn Resort to experience it for yourself. Ask for Tammy. The staff looks forward to giving you a first-hand tour the resort and venues options. Wedding packages and more information can also be found at bethelinn.com.

Turn your reception into a weekend celebration that will astound your closest friends and family... The Bethel Inn Resort, at the heart of weddings in Bethel.

Photo: Carol Savage Photography

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4 Western Maine Weddings

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One of the big decisions couples must make when planning their

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BY JANET BLACK AIFD weddings concerns their floral arrangements. The right floral arrange...........................................................................................................

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ments won’t break the bank but will add substantial aesthetic appeal to ceremonies and receptions. It can be difficult for couples to achieve that balance of cost and look on their own, so the following are a few helpful hints for couples when choosing their wedding day floral arrangements.

• Work with a florist you trust and like. All florists are not the same, so finding one you can trust and will enjoy working with can make all the difference. Many couples have little or no experience with floral arrangements prior to planning their weddings, so it can calm couples’ nerves to work with someone they trust in such situations. Florists with significant wedding experience will no doubt make a host of recommendations based on couples’ budgets and preferences, so couples might be more inclined to listen to that advice if they are working with someone they trust. Ask relatives, friends or coworkers if they can recommend any florists whose wedding work they are familiar with.

• Choose in-season or native flowers. Couples working with tight budgets may want to choose in-season flowers or those native to the area where they will be tying the knot. In-season and native flowers won’t need to be ordered or shipped in from afar, which can be costly.

In-season and native flowers tend to be more abundant as well, and the greater their availability the less couples are likely to pay for them.

• Repurpose floral arrangements. Another way to save on floral arrangements is to repurpose flowers throughout the day. Once bridesmaids no longer need their bouquets, use them to decorate gift tables or cocktail areas. Floral arrangements on display during the ceremony can be removed once you have both said “I do” and moved into the reception area where they can be enjoyed through the night. Go over any repurposing you plan to do with your reception hall manager prior to your wedding day so he knows where and when to move the arrangements.

Western Maine Weddings 5

Responsibilities of the bridal party

Being asked to join a bridal party is both an honor and a responsibility. When asked to take on such significant and meaningful roles, men and women may recognize the honor but be unsure of what their responsibilities are as couples move forward with their wedding plans.

Below are some of the tasks bridesmaids and groomsmen can expect to perform in the months leading up to the wedding and during the wedding itself.

• Maid of Honor: The maid of honor serves as the bride-to-be’s right-hand woman as she plans her wedding and gets ready on her big day. Maids of honor typically go gown shopping with the bride and may even choose or offer suggestions about the color and style of the bridesmaids’ dresses. Once a dress style and color has been chosen, the maid of honor will make sure everyone is fitted on time.

A maid of honor will also plan the bridal shower. Many brides want the details of their bridal showers to be a surprise, and maids of honor should honor those sentiments when possible. A maid of honor also plans the bachelorette party, though many brides do not mind being involved in the planning of such parties.

Come the day of the wedding, the maid of honor will ensure the bride’s day is as stress-free as possible, helping to address any lastminute issues that may arise. Maids of honor may be asked to serve as the legal witness to the wedding and sign the wedding license before the reception. At the reception, the maid of honor will toast the bride.

• Best man: The best man is the maid of honor’s counterpart, helping to plan the bachelor party and toasting the groom at the reception. The best man also tends to hold the rings during the wedding ceremony, and during the day of the wedding, he will coordinate the groomsmen to make sure everyone is ready to go on time.

• Bridesmaids/Groomsmen: The bridesmaids and groomsmen serve similar functions, acting as sources of support as couples plan their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen help to plan the bachelorette and bachelor parties and may also be asked their opinions as couples make decisions regarding their weddings.

• Flower girl/Ring bearer: Flower girls and ring bearers are often young relatives of the couple, whether they are a younger brother or sister, or a niece or nephew. The responsibilities of the flower girl and ring bearer are typically limited to the ceremony, during which they will walk down the aisle, either together or individually, before the father of the bride escorts his daughter to the altar.

• Father of the bride: The father of the bride walks his daughter down the aisle during the ceremony, and, along with his wife, may pay for the wedding, though many couples now finance their own nuptials. The father of the bride will dance with his daughter during the reception, and some fathers may even share a special toast for the newlyweds during the reception, though such a toast is not traditionally required.

Photo: Carol Savage Photography

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6 Western Maine Weddings

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Many couples find their wedding rehearsal dinners to be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of wedding planning. Such dinners enable the happy couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a relatively casual gathering with their closest friends and family members.

Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the night before the wedding, immediately following the ceremony rehearsal . The couple, members of their wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom and others involved in the wedding typically attend this dinner. The couple generally takes the time at the dinner to thank everyone for their contributions to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of appreciation. No rules govern rehearsal dinners, so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners as they see fit.

Parents of the groom traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in planning the event. That means couples should keep an open and gracious mind. Remember, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to any budget or preference.

Some couples feel that hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can make the dinner more comfortable for members of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another before the wedding. This will help to tame nerves and enable the wedding party to loosen up and enjoy themselves even more. Some people may be more inclined to socialize and have fun when they’re not worried about putting on airs.

Restaurants that have special meaning to the couple often make for great places to hold rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can suggest their ideas, but ultimately it is the person handling the bill who has the final say. Couples who want greater control over the rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting it themselves.

Despite its name, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t actually have to be a dinner, as couples can opt for meals at a different time of the day, like brunch or lunch. An earlier occasion gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest up for the festivities of the wedding to come.

Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner, but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks. A couple with a good sense of humor might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom should expect to say a few words of thanks to all in attendance, but remarks need not be too formal.

Rehearsal dinners may even feature a little entertainment. Tech-savvy parents may put together a presentation with videos or photographs that chronicles the couple’s lives separately and their life together.

Western Maine Weddings 7

Clever Takes on the ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue’ Tradition

Wedding day tokens of good luck come in many forms, but the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue (a sixpence in your shoe)” adage remains one of the most popular luck-enhancing wedding traditions. According to the bridal resource The Knot, this tradition stems from an Olde English rhyme. Something old represents continuity; something new is for optimism for the future; something borrowed stands for borrowed happiness; and something blue is for purity, love and fidelity. The sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity, but this is not a tradition widely celebrated outside of the United Kingdom or British territories. These traditions can add some creative flair and personality to wedding ceremonies. There’s no end to the inventive combinations of items brides can carry to increase their good fortunes.

Something old: Something old is one of the easier mementos to obtain. There is a good chance that someone in the family is willing to pass an item down to the bride that she can include in her wedding wardrobe. It also can be something the bride may have in her own memory box. Beads taken from a grandmother’s dress or a swatch of fabric from a beloved toy doll are creative ideas that can be sewn into inconspicuous places on gowns.

Something new: Brides already purchase many new items for their wedding day looks, so “something new” should not be too hard to find.

Couples may want to work together to find something new they can both carry so they have a matching set upon tying the knot. Interlocking charm bracelets or keychains may work. What about the groom carrying a small padlock and the bride the key? Quirky couples can each wear one sock from a pair. Get clever and have fun.

Something borrowed: Much like something old, something borrowed is yet another way to pay homage to a friend or family member.

It’s also one way to add a sentimental twist to everyday items. Borrow a grandfather’s handkerchief to wrap around the stems of the wedding bouquet. Exchange vows with the original rings used by a distant relative at their own wedding. Flatter a close friend by wearing the same veil she did.

Something blue: There are many ways to incorporate “something blue” into your wedding ceremony. Brides can paint their toenails blue or wear blue shoes under their gowns. Sew a patch from a pair of denim jeans into the bodice of the dress. Paint the bottom of your shoes bright blue so they stand out when kneeling at the altar. Blue sapphire or topaz jewelry can add an exotic look to the wedding wardrobe.

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8 Western Maine Weddings

Weddings

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at Sunday River

Beautiful Beginnings for your Happily Ever After Wedding Officiant Kathyleen McMahon

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Western Maine Weddings 9

Veronica’s Creations Specializing in custom designs: Western wedding dresses with fringe and a length designed to show off the bride’s cowboy boots. Flower girls’ dresses ringed with flower petals.... If you have your own design, come to me and I’ll create it. Bring sketches or magazine clippings, or even mom’s old gown in need of a modern look and fit. Custom wedding gowns start at $399.

Online and out of state orders accepted Please call or email for an appointment Phone: 207.946.2123 • Cell: 207.514.6820 Email: veronicascreate@aol.com www.bridalboutiquedesigns.com

Finding a Wedding Gown That’s Right for You Few wardrobe decisions are scrutinized as much as a bride-to-be’s choice of wedding gown. Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future bride’s figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides.

The Bridal Association of America estimates a bride-to-be will spend between $1,500 and $2,000 total on her gown, veil and accessories. Brides often spend months, if not years, shopping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what flatters certain body types. After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married.

Here is a look of some of the common types of gowns and why choosing this shape might be right for you.

Ballgown: A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses. With a fitted bodice and full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically poofed-up by crinoline and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figures.

A-line: Another silhouette very forgiving or appropriate for many body types is the A-line gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase “A.” When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic and sensible and a favorite among brides.

Trumpet: Women who prefer something a little more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.

Mermaid: A bit more fitted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.

Modified A-line: A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.

Tea length: Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.

Sheath: Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success.

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10 Western Maine Weddings

Nail Color is the Finishing Touch to Wedding Day Preparation © Mark R Ducharme Photography

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Nail Art: Polish can be enhanced further with nail appliques or painted-on designs. It’s common for nail art to only appear on one nail of each hand, and it’s usually reserved for the ring finger. As people admire the wedding ring, they also can grab a peek at some fun and flirty nail art designs.

Bold and Beautiful: Brides who really want to make a statement can select a bold color for their nail polish. Coral and deep pinks can be a stark contrast against a white gown and add a bit of drama to a bride’s look. Brides also may want to coordinate their nail colors to the theme of the wedding. A blue or teal shade for an ocean-side wedding or a lavender shade for a spring wedding amid tons of blooms can look beautiful.

It pays to have nails professionally manicured so that fingers will be flawless. A manicure also provides a little pampering before the demands of the wedding day set in.

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Wedding guests will be anxious to see the wedding ring, and photographs of the couple holding hands typically are included in the wedding album. A bride’s hands need to look as polished as the rest of her wedding day ensemble.

Luckily there are no established rules when it comes to wedding day nail polish. Colors can range from neutrals and traditional shades to shades that are brighter and more exotic. Some brides like to wear blue nail polish, which gives them flair and completes the requisite “something blue” tradition. Not sure what to choose for your wedding day color? See if one of these suggestions fits your style.

Nude colors: Brides may want to downplay their nails and not let them detract from their rings or gowns. Using nude colors will help achieve this. Nudes can include blush pink, off-white and beigetoned nail polish alone or in combination, such as with a French manicure. Some brides choose to go with clear polish and let their natural nails shine through.

Glitter: For a bit more pizzazz, brides can have their nails done with a nude or clear color enhanced with glitter. The glitter will add a bit of sparkle that can complement the shine of wedding rings and any embellishments on gowns or veils. An alternative is to have tiny faux gems imbedded into the polish near the base of the nail where it meets the cuticle.

Call us today to make your appointment!

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39 Mayville Road Bethel, Maine

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Western Maine Weddings 11

Which Dinner Service is Right for Your Wedding?

Weddings are typically the culmination of months of careful planning. After a couple has officially tied the knot, a celebration typically follows. Although music and mingling are integral to a wedding reception, the meal is often the central component of the party.

Couples have options when choosing dinner service for their weddings, and some need not serve dinner at all. An early wedding may consist of a brunch or some passed appetizers, while some couples opt for a cocktail party in lieu of a dinner party. Still, some weddings feature only desserts.

But guests attending more traditional weddings expect to dine at the receptions that follow such affairs. Buffet service and a sit-down dinner are the most popular choices for wedding meals, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the dinner service that works best for your wedding may involve a careful comparison of the various offerings and keeping your budget and guests’ comfort in mind.

Sit-down dinner: A sit-down dinner consists of several courses of plated food served by a waitstaff. There are several advantages to sit-down meals. Guests can focus entirely on enjoying themselves and conversing with fellow guests rather than getting up to seek out food, and those with mobility issues do not have to worry about maneuvering to a buffet station or trying to balance food.

Sit-down dinners are typically more expensive as well. Guests are generally given several choices for the main course, and that could mean ordering extra food and preparing it to be ready for guests’ selections. Serving meals may take longer, and sometimes meals may not arrive hot to the table. Guests may be limited to certain food choices, and portion sizes may not be what guests were hoping for. Sitting idle for a while can affect the mood of the reception and lead to boredom.

Buffet service: A buffet-style dinner is served from a long dais table that holds several chafing dishes full of food. Wedding guests will rise from their seats and

make their way to the buffet stations, where they’ll be able to serve themselves or be served by staff manning the stations.

Buffets present an array of foods that cater to the various dietary needs of guests. Those at the reception can sample several different foods rather than be restricted to one main course. Guests can limit portion sizes or sometimes return for second helpings. Buffets are generally less formal and allow guests to mingle more readily.

Be aware that buffet-style meals may produce long lines as guests pick and choose their meals. While experienced catering managers and reception site staff should have plans in place to create a free-flow of guests to the buffet stations, there will be a first and a last table called to eat, and guests on the tail end of the service may be stuck with whatever is left over if food is not adequately restocked.

In an effort to accommodate everyone, extra food may be cooked for buffet-style dinners, which can be costly and wasteful. In addition, guests are asked to do more work, as they need to get up and retrieve their own food.

Photo: Carol Savage Photography

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