Yo u r F R E E R E G I O N A L P l a n n i n g R e s o u r c e TM
Magazine
Winter 2008
fabulous
receptions
JUST DESSERTS
SEASIDE SITES
Sweet ideas for your reception
BOSTON LANDMARKS
CUSTOMIZED CUISINE Creative ideas for a personalized wedding menu
NEARBY NUPTIALS A look at three Central New England weddings Marlborough, MA January 5 & 6, 2008
iit’s t ’s a all l i n tth h e d e t a iils l s .... ..
re h e a r s a l d i n n e r s bridal showers w e d d i n g s c e re m o n i e s re c e p t i o n s • Vi c t o r i a n We d d i n g C h a p e l • M a g n i fi c e n t G ra n d B a l l ro o m • Award-Winning Cuisine • Luxurious Rooms • Intimate Private Function Rooms • We d d i n g C o n s u l t a n t s • N u m e ro u s G u e s t A m e n i t i e s
8 0 0 - 3 4 4 - 2 5 8 9 • 3 6 3 P l a n t a t i o n S t re r e e t • Wo W o rc r c e s t e r, r, M A • b e e c h w o o d h o t e l . c o m
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Where Memories Begin Experience the charm and elegance of a traditional New England Inn. Exchange vows in our romantic garden and then celebrate in our new Laurelwood Ballroom or on our canopied deck. Best of all, when the day draws to a close our luxurious bridal suite and 26 suites await you and your guests.
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BRIDE&GROOM
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TM
Winter 2008
Contents Features 64 Sea of love Oceanside reception venues 68 Quintessential Boston Landmark locations for your wedding celebration
Articles
Near-by Nuptials A close-up look at Central New England weddings 14 Liza Lucivero and Michael Petrone 18 LaurenVacaro and Robert Leardi
32 Here comes the bride, all dressed in... green? Eco-savvy fashions for today’s to-be-weds 38 From scratch Creative and customized cuisine for a personal wedding-day menu 46 The wedding morning breakfast Getting your nuptials off to the right start 52 Just desserts Sweet treats to end your nuptial feast 58 New trends in bridal bouquets Styles to complement your gown 11 0
22 Jennifer Mooney and Kevin Osborn
104 Going for the gown How to be a buyer aware 106 News you can use Local wedding info
Planning 101 82 Wedding timetable What to do and when
Departments 10 Letter from the Editor
84 Changing your name? How to do it
72 Fashions Tiers to you!
86 License to wed Getting your MA marriage license
74 Health & fitness The 20-minute bridal workout
88 Preparing to plan Tips for getting started 90 Contract considerations What to know before you sign on the dotted line
Directories 119 Function facilities 124 Wedding resources
92 Invitations A guide to proper etiquette
52
94 Topics of transportation Getting the right ride 97 Tuning up A few notes about your reception music 98 Spreading the news Guide to local engagement and wedding announcements
Honeymoons 110 Jackson Hole,Wyoming 114 The highways and byways of West Ireland
100 Tux talk Getting the right fit 102 Videography 101 25 questions to ask
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Winter 2008
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You deserve the Best. You deserve Cardoos. Elegant Wedding Receptions Engagement Parties Rehearsal Dinners Wedding Showers
Cardoos Gourmet Caterers Experience the difference! Owner/Chef Omar Sagastume 135 Westborough Road (Rte. 30) North Grafton, MA 508-839-2213 Toll Free 877-655-3911 www.cardooscater.com cardcater@aol.com Our policy is to never increase any prices once quoted no matter what the circumstances. We have no hidden fees, travel fees, cutting or corking fees.
TM
Magazine
Publishers Richard E. Chevalier Germaine A. Chevalier germaine@chevalierassociates.com
President Robert R. Chevalier robert@chevalierassociates.com
Editor Lisa Dayne lisa@chevalierassociates.com The most memorable day of your life should be in a setting that will live up to your expectations. To create a magical wedding, Sterling National’s personalized planners will cater to your every need. The Sterling, Duncan and Windsor rooms provide accommodations for 10 to 225 guests while our first-class food and beverage service will make the day unforgettable. (QT OQTG KPHQTOCVKQP QT VQ UEJGFWNG C VQWT RNGCUG ECNN GZV QT XKUKV YYY UVGTNKPIEE EQO
Director of Sales Allen Lederman allen@chevalierassociates.com
Operations Director RenĂŠe M. Nasuti renee@chevalierassociates.com
Marketing Manager K.C. O’Brien kc@chevalierassociates.com
#NDTKIJV 4F † 5VGTNKPI /#
Professional Limousine Service
Design Nancy Davis ShopTalk Marketing Communications Charlton, MA Contributing Writers Cynthia Allegrezza • Katharine Dyson Kelly James-Enger • Andrea E. McHugh Elizabeth C. Regan BRIDE &GROOMTM Magazine is published in January, May and September and is a trademark of and published by:
334 Boston Turnpike Shrewsbury, MA 01545 Phone: (508) 770-0092 (888) 774-3976 Fax: (508) 770-0065 www.bridegroommag.com All content Š2008, CHEVALIER ASSOCIATES, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED PRINTED IN USA BRIDE&GROOMTM assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. No portion of BRIDE&GROOMTM, advertising
508-581-8800 • 800-698-6111 www.professional-limousine.com 31 River Street • Millbury, MA 01527 8 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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or editorial, may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher. The information contained in this publication is believed to be accurate, however the publisher does not guarantee its accuracy. The opinions expressed by others within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its employees. By accepting advertising neither BRIDE&GROOMTM Magazine nor Chevalier Associates, Inc. is endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or products within those advertisements. Every effort is made to ensure that the advertisements come from reputable companies, however we cannot take responsibility for how an advertiser deals with the public.
Colonial Elegance W 625 Betty Spring Road Gardner, MA 01440 978-630-2500 Reservations 888-214-4991 Fax 978-632-0913 www.colonial-hotel.com weddingsales@colonial-hotel.com
hile classic elegance, attentive service, and wonderful food surround the guests, the bride is able to relax knowing that the hotel’s professional wedding consultant is available to assist in the arrangement and coordination of all the fine points of the wedding reception.
Grand Ballroom Accommodates 50 to 400 Outside Courtyard Tent accommodates up to 300 Magnificent Staircase for Pictures 112 Tastefully Decorated Guestrooms Brand New Bridal Suites Indoor & Outdoor ceremonies on-site
Bridal Suites Lemay Photography
Step 1: Set a date for your special day.
Step 2: Let us handle the rest.
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON Leominster, MA A convenient location in the heart of North Central Massachusetts. An elegantly appointed ballroom and charming outdoor garden pavilion ideal for memorable receptions. (978) 534-9000 fourpoints.com/leominster
Comfort isn’t complicated.
Letter from the editor DESPITE
C O L D T E M P E R AT U R E S A N D
challenging weather conditions, winter is a very festive time of year.The December holidays and impending New Year mean cheerful parties with lots of good food, drink and celebrating with family and friends—much like your wedding will be. As you flit about from soirée to soirée, take careful note of the particulars in play. What is the venue like? How is it decorated? Is the menu appealing? What are people enjoying the most? These gatherings are a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration that can be easily translated to your special day, no matter what time of year you’ll be wed. If you didn’t get a chance to attend a bash this holiday season, no worries; BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine has you covered. In this issue, our feature articles focus on the reception locale. If you love the idea of a city venue, Quintessential Boston, beginning on page 68, will give you a close-up look at some of Boston’s most famous landmarks for your celebration. Perhaps you’re more inclined to head to the coast? If so, Sea of Love, on page 64, highlights four spectacular seaside settings that look tailor made for beach-y wedding events. Some other food for thought is, well… about food. Since a main portion of your reception will focus on the celebratory meal, we pulled together some great ideas for a unique personalized menu in From Scratch on page 38. But what bridal banquet would be complete without a scrumptious dessert? Though it is a traditional highlight to any wedding reception, cake isn’t the only dessert
On the cover:
Four Points, Sheraton, and the pinwheel logo are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. or its affiliates. (c) 2007 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved.
10 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
Aaron and Michelle Mello July 2, 2005 Photo location: Bristol Community College, Fall River, MA Photo by Tammy Tatro Fine Art Photography
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worthy of topping off your nuptial meal. A list of creative alternatives appears in Just Desserts on page 52. In addition, we’ve got other great tips for all aspects of your wedding—from how and where to start planning to properly addressing your invitations, and everything in between. There are even two comprehensive resource directories to help you find local wedding specialists quickly and easily. As you begin to plan the event that will kick off a new phase in your life, know that BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine is your best local resource. We’re glad to be with you! Best wishes and Happy NewYear.
Lisa Dayne Editor
HJM Wedding Photography Specializing in wedding photography and personal attention for over 25 years 107 Elmwood Street Auburn, MA www.hjmphotography.com Prime dates for 2008 available Call today for an appointment
508-753-2230
Wedding details
Liza Lucivero and Michael Petrone Worcester, MA June 2006
Nearby
Nuptials by Andrea McHugh How they met Liza and Mike first locked eyes in the workplace.The two were part of an oncology clinical trial research group affiliated with Harvard University and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. It was Liza’s first job out of college and Mike’s second.
How they got engaged Liza was hardy suspicious when Mike suggested the two head to the Cape to take advantage of a perfect summer day. Liza’s parents had a summer home in Mashpee, so weekend escapes were welcome. Racing to the shore before day’s end, the couple stood hand and hand soaking in the setting sun when Mike dropped to one knee asking Liza to be his wife. After a rousing “yes,” Liza was in for another surprise. “We went to my parents’ house where they were waiting with champagne,” she says. “Mike had spoken to both my mom and dad hours earlier when he asked for each of their blessings.”
Who planned the wedding The engagement wasn’t the only exciting change in their lives. Soon after the proposal, 14 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
they each began law school and purchased their first home. “It was a stressful process at times,” admits Liza. Fortunately, her closeknit family was eager to assist. In between exams and setting up house, the couple enjoyed cake and menu tastings together. Liza also set the floral plan, designed her gown and chose bridesmaids’ dresses and invitations, while Mike handled the wedding day entertainment.Together they chose every song to be played at their reception and created a CD as part of the favors. The couple also chose Worcester’s Union Station for their reception. “I wanted our wedding to be in a place that was architecturally beautiful and didn’t require a lot of decorating,” says Liza. But it was much more than aesthetics that convinced the couple they had found the perfect setting. “My grandparents on both sides grew up in Worcester and most of our extended family is still in the city or nearby, so I really wanted the older generation to experience Union Station again as the renovation is just beautiful,” she says. “I also loved the idea of having my wedding in a place where my grandparents caught the train 60 years ago.” www.bridegroommag.com
Eleven months to the day after saying “I will,” Liza said “I do.”Against the neutral hues of the Grand Hall’s two-story curved ceilings and rich wood trim, splashes of pink invigorated the naturally elegant surroundings. Bridesmaids clad in magenta silk shantung gowns carried bouquets of two dozen light pink roses with bold green herb accents and wrapped in green silk. “Although, it was an indoor wedding, I wanted to capture the season with lots of flowers,” says the bride, who carried a bouquet of white cymbidium orchids and stephanotis. Tall, artistically arranged centerpieces of exotic flowers in similar tones graced the guest tables. The place card table was elegantly appointed with cherub statues and family wedding photos. “People just loved seeing those, especially if they were in the photos!” says Liza. More than 250 guests dined on a carefully chosen menu of organic and/or free range entrées including filet mignon, salmon and half-roasted chicken.The newlyweds then engaged in the cake-cutting tradition, leaving all the guests hungry for more. “People still say it was the best cake they have ever tasted,” gushes the bride. The confectionary delight, however, wasn’t the sweetest part of the evening. “One of the most special parts of the night was when my brother gave a sentimental, authentic and honest toast off-the-cuff and from the heart as he and the band were about to start playing” says Liza. “It was just perfect.” The band was also part of the family affair. Not only were the members all cousins or the brother of the bride, they played all-time favorites, many with special meaning. From Ray Charles (for grandma) to the Beatles, the band rocked the house, and a DJ spun between sets.
Advice In retrospect, Liza admits that between a hefty school workload, working and settling into a new home, a wedding planner might have helped alleviate some stress. But teamwork was key and when she got indecisive, Mike was there to help. Also, with a wedding of this size, the bride says a second photographer might have been able to shoot more formal family photos during the cocktail hour. “But, the best advice I could give any bride and groom is, ‘Have fun,’” says Liza. “At the end of the day, you aren’t going to care about the color scheme, seating arrangement, or even how the food tasted, but you will always remember that you had fun. Once the day begins, let go of the details and just enjoy all the glorious moments.” B&G
The particulars Ceremony: St. Columba’s Parish, Paxton Reception: Union Station, Worcester Photographer: Michael Manning Photography, Cambridge Caterer: The Restaurant at Union Station, Worcester Cake: Bean Counter Bakery, Worcester Florist: Perro’s Flowers, Worcester Videographer: Sky Ride Productions, Chicopee, MA; Brooklyn, NY Music: TNT Entertainment, Worcester Transportation: Grays Limousine, Boylston Bridal gown: Vow’s Bridal, Newton Bridesmaids: Aria Bridesmaids, Boston, MA; Los Angeles, CA; Washington, DC Groom/Groomsmen: Bonardi’s Formalwear, Worcester
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Lauren Vaccaro and Robert Leardi Hudson, MA July 7, 2007
Nearby
Nuptials by Elizabeth C. Regan How they met
How they got engaged
Lauren and Bobby met through mutual friends during a night out on the town. She arrived at their destination with several girlfriends; he was with his buddies. Though most members of the two groups were already acquainted, Lauren had never seen Bobby before. She remembers grabbing one of her friends as she tried to ascertain his identity in a whisper: “Who is that guy? We’ve never seen him out before!” Bobby, it seemed, was thinking along the same lines. He walked over to her within 10 minutes and the two talked for the rest of the night.They knew they wanted to see each other again.
On the evening of their two-year dating anniversary, the couple revisited Vinny T’s of Boston, the site of their first date. Operating under the assumption that the dinner was simply a celebration of that milestone, Lauren was unaware that Bobby had bigger plans in mind. But after they ate, it was a dozen red roses and a drive to an undisclosed location that made Lauren realize something was up. They ended up in front of theWorcester Ice Skating Rink.The interior was dimly lit and a soundtrack of their favorite songs was playing in the background. As Bobby helped Lauren onto the Zamboni, she thought back to her
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childhood days spent skating at the very same rink, where taking such a ride on the heavy icesmoothing machine had always been a dream of hers. She’d once mentioned that unfulfilled wish to Bobby at a Bruins game during halftime and she couldn’t believe he remembered; he was always full of creative surprises. The biggest shock, however, came when he pulled out an engagement ring and asked her to marry him. She said yes and each of them—including the Zamboni driver—was full of smiles.
How they chose their date The couple’s 7/7/07 wedding was a stroke of luck, with a little careful planning thrown in. Since they were able to begin the process a year and one month in advance, Lauren and Bobby managed to snag the reception site of their choice right away.When it came to the rest of the vendors, the couple did not know how popular the auspicious date would prove to be. “All of the vendors were ‘penciled in’ with other people,” Lauren says,“but we just ended up agreeing to everything before the other couples were able to call back.”
Wedding day details Instead of having table numbers, music aficionados Lauren and Bobby named each table after a love song. Their choices included “So Happy Together,” “Love Shack,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “My Girl,” “MyValentine,” “What aWonderfulWorld,” “Endless Love” and “This Magic Moment,” among others. Early in the reception, the bandleader informed the guests that they would have to sing into the microphone whenever their table’s song was played.The upscale party game turned out to be a big hit; there were many memorable moments as guests laughed and sang, some of them trying to emulate the professionals.
Favorite part of the day From the second she woke up to the last dance at Charter Oak Country Club, Lauren loved every aspect of her wedding day. Her morning began when her entire bridal party gathered at the salon to get their hair done. In the presence of her family and closest girlfriends, she felt less nervous and even more excited about the events to come. The rest of the morning flew by and, before she knew it, the group was back at her house posing for photos. The magical tone of the day intensified at the wedding ceremony, which many guests said was the most beautiful Mass they had ever been to. Bobby and Lauren were welcomed as husband and wife at a reception decorated in gold and ivory. Everything was perfect. When asked to pinpoint her favorite part of the day, Lauren’s answer was a rhetorical question: “What could be better than getting married and being surrounded by family and friends that you love all day long?”
The particulars Ceremony: St. Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury Reception: Charter Oak Country Club, Hudson Photographer: Michael J. Charles Photography, Boston Florist: Holmes-Shusas Florist, Inc., Worcester Cake: Bean Counter Cake & Pastry Shop, Shrewsbury Videographer: Mark Willand Video Productions, Douglas Transportation: First Choice Limousine, Lunenburg Music: Boss Band Entertainment, Boston Bridal gown: Watters and Watters purchased at Caradonna Bridal, Northborough
Advice Lauren is one 7/7/07 bride who knows you can’t rely totally on luck. Planning for both work and play is a necessity. “If you see something you like in a magazine, cut pictures out and keep everything you love in folders,” she says. “And make sure you take time with each other to discuss life besides the wedding!” B&G
Bridesmaids: Dessy Collection purchased at Caradonna Bridal, Northborough Groom/Groomsmen: Calvin Klein, from Bonardi’s Formalwear, Worcester
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Jennifer Mooney and Kevin Osborn Hyannis, MA July 2007
Nearby
Nuptials How they got engaged
Who planned the wedding
Jen and Kevin, who were dating for two years, would be attending Jen’s cousin’s wedding in Cocoa Beach, FL, in May 2006; so they decided to take a mini vacation in Orlando for a few days before the event. On their first night there, it was dinner at the Polynesian Resort then to the beach to watch the fireworks over the Magic Kingdom. During the wondrous display, Kevin got down on one knee to propose. The bittersweet part was that Kevin had asked Jen’s grandfather for permission the day before they left for Florida. (Jen’s father passed away in 2005; this was her paternal grandfather.) He told Kevin he didn’t have to ask, and gave him his blessing. Sadly, Jen’s grandfather passed away three weeks later, only two days after she showed him the ring.
The bride did most of the planning; however the groom was in charge of the music and the search for the groomsmen’s guayaberas (Cuban shirts or Mexican wedding shirts). Kevin was also the one who organized the logistics on the wedding day, such as directing where the chairs should be placed, where the DJ should set up, even when the bridal party could come forward.
Wedding-day details The couple incorporated as many beach-inspired ideas as they could. Their save-the-date cards, wedding invitations, programs and favors all had a flip flop motif and their favors were botanical papers in the shape of a flip flop (the paper contained wild-
How they chose the date Even before meeting Kevin, Jen had always wanted a beach wedding. She didn’t just want to look at the water—she wanted her feet in the sand. Since they met at the Cape through Jen’s friend Jodi (who is also Kevin’s sister), it seemed fitting to have their wedding there. Their date also marked the three-year anniversary of the weekend they met. 22 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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flower seeds and can be planted).The centerpieces were blue hydrangeas in pale yellow beach pails with shovels. Beach pails were also used at the dessert candy bar. When guests checked in at the Sheraton, they each received a welcome bag filled with Nantucket Nectars, Cape Cod potato chips, saltwater taffy and homemade sugar cookies in the shape of crabs, flip flops and fish. (The cookie cutters were the favor from Jen’s bridal shower.) Also included was visitor infor-
mation from the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce. Each table was named for a Cape Cod town such as Hyannis, Chatham, etc. The place cards were small mini frames accented with starfish. At the ceremony, a basket was provided for people to place their shoes before they walked across the sand to be seated. The cake topper reflected Jen and Kevin’s true beach spirit: beach chairs, each with a pair of flip flops in front of it. Kevin’s chair also had a baseball, bat and beer while Jen’s had a book and a small replica of her dog Bridget that she made herself. Because Jen had lost her father, both paternal grandparents and beloved dog Bridget within two years of her wedding, she wanted to honor them in a special way on this day. She placed photos of each in small paper frames that her florist attached to the base of Jen’s bouquet.That way she could look down and see their faces. In addition, Jen gave the DJ a list of songs to play that reminded her of her father.There wasn’t any dedication made; the songs were simply played as an intimate and personal way for Jen to honor him.
Favorite part of the day For Jen, it was definitely the sunshine. “My biggest fear was that all of my planning for a beach wedding would be ruined by a down pouring of rain,” she says. “When I woke up to sunny skies, nothing else bothered me the rest of the day.” Kevin particularly liked the sand custom he and Jen performed at the ceremony. Each had an individual jar of colored sand that they each poured into a third jar. They also loved that the wedding day turned into an entire weekend. Many friends
had joined them after the rehearsal dinner, and many wedding guests attended a post wedding gathering. On Sunday more friends and family continued the celebration at Kevin’s family’s cottage in Dennisport.
The particulars
What guests commented on the most
Ceremony: West Dennis Beach, West Dennis
Jen’s dress was a big hit. Everyone loved that it was blue, which tied into the beach theme nicely. The overall ceremony was another favorite. Many guests had attended weddings near or overlooking the water before, but never on a beach. The couple was told by many that their ceremony was the nicest they had attended. Others commented how the small details really made a big difference and enjoyable for everyone.
Reception: Four Points by Sheraton Hyannis, Hyannis
Advice For Jen, having a wedding Web site was very helpful. The URL was listed on the direction cards included with the wedding invitations. Since the wedding, it has been a great way for the couple to share their photographs with guests, friends and family. B&G www.bridegroommag.com
Photographer: Clark Photography, Queensbury, NY Cake: Creative Baking, Hyannis Florist: All About Flowers for Weddings, Hyannis DJ: Allegro DJ Service, Hyannis Transportation: KON Limo Service, Osterville Bridal and bridesmaids’ gowns: Alfred Angelo purchased a The Special Event Bridal Shoppe, Marlborough Groom and groomsmen: Martinez Montiel custom Guayabera shirts, Fridays Shirts, online; Cubavera linen pants, Macy’s
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What The Original Wedding Expo™ offers that other shows don’t Quality. From the moment you enter The Original Wedding Expo™, you know you’re in for a treat. Wide aisles make it easy to navigate among the area’s premier wedding vendors. Booths are spacious, making it easy to see what is being offered and talk with the staffs on hand. The atmosphere is fun and energetic as well as professional. With 30 years of experience behind them, producer Chevalier Associates, Inc. knows what works! Diversity. This Wedding Expo offers an array of specialists in the most categories. A trip to any of the six Expos offered in 2008 means you’ll meet with
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major vendors (facilities, florists, bakers, bridal shops, DJs/bands, transportation, invitations, etc.) as well as a variety of specialty exhibitors such as bridal registries, salons, make-up artists, hair stylists and much more. Loads of prizes. And by “loads” we mean at least 15 grand prizes per Expo ranging in value from $100 to $2,500. At each Expo, one 8-day/7-night honeymoon to Aruba is given away to a lucky couple. Other prizes include: transportation and tuxedo rentals, gift certificates for floral arrangements and photography packages, kitchen appliances, cakes, chocolate fountain rentals and much more. Many vendors may also offer additional prizes directly at their booths.
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Fabulous fashion shows. The hottest gown and tuxedo fashions in New England are presented in classic runway style at each Wedding Expo. Designs are grouped into themed sets to inspire your own wedding-day look. The latest styles for moms and the bridal party (including ring bearers and flower girls) are also showcased in these elegant presentations where every seat has a great view. Interactive displays. At The Original Wedding Expo™, it’s more than just meeting with vendors—it’s also seeing what they can do and what they have to offer. Want to try the latest up ’do? Check out the salon booths for a complimentary style trial. Interested in a make-up consultation? Have a seat and check out the latest colors and products. That stretch Escalade or Hummer looks quite spacious… hop on board to get a first-hand look. Be sure to visit the reception facilities, caterers and bakers in attendance, for they will have samplings of culinary delights for you to
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Winter 2008 Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center Marlborough, MA January 5-6 2008 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. www.tlmstudios.com
taste. For a peek at the latest in video/DVD technology and album styles, stop by photographers’ and videographers’ booths. Professional exhibit booths. Open, inviting and chock full of information, our vendors’ booths are packed with the information you need to plan your wedding. Expect to see glorious floral arrangements, extravagant reception displays (complete with fine china, linens, centerpieces and decorative lighting), exciting video presentations and elegant pictorials showcasing fine photography. Live music. What would a wedding be without music? The Original Wedding Expo™ understands this and puts on demonstrations from the best bands and DJs around. You may even hear the romantic sounds of a string quartet or bagpipes as you enter the show. Free Parking. All six Wedding Expo locations offer complimentary parking, with the addition of free shuttle service at The Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center in Marlborough, MA.
Two-day Expo in Metro West! The Original Wedding Expo™ will ring in 2008 with the area’s only two-day bridal show at the Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center in Marlborough, MA, on January 5th and 6th. This is the Expo’s flagship show, offering twice the vendors, twice the prizes and twice the fun—all for the same low price! Pay admission on Saturday and return Sunday at no charge.
Make the most of your Expo experience With so much to see and do at the Expo, make the most of your time there
Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center Fitchburg, MA January 20, 2008 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Fall 2008 Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center Marlborough, MA September 7, 2008 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sturbridge Host Hotel Sturbridge, MA September 21, 2008 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. with these helpful hints from Robert Chevalier, President of Chevalier Associates, Inc., producers The Original Wedding Expo™: Set goals and prioritize. Know what you need to get done (book a baker, find a facility) before you come to the Expo. This will help you maximize your time with the vendors you need to see. The Original Wedding Expo™ will provide you with a handy showguide, which will list all of the vendors in attendance and tell you where to find their booths. Be prepared. Have a list of questions for each vendor prepared in advance. It will make your time with each specialist more efficient. Also, come to the Expo with preprinted address labels, complete with your wedding date. This will save you time as you add your name to various vendor contact lists. Having a pen and notebook will also come in handy. Comparison shop. By all means, check out everything before making any www.bridegroommag.com
Sheraton Braintree Hotel Braintree, MA NEW ! September 28, 2008 O P EX 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Twin River Lincoln, R.I. October 18-19, 2008 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
NEW EXPO!
More information —and a 2-for-1 Pass— can be found online at www.originalweddingexpo.com.
bookings. Some vendors may offer products or services that are new to you, or that you hadn’t considered before. Stay energized. Wear comfortable shoes and keep yourself fed and hydrated. Have fun! Congratulations and enjoy this time in your life! BRIDE&GROOM Winter 2008
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Enter a bygone era of
Victorian Grandeur…
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Here comes the bride, all dressed in... green? Eco-savvy fashions for today’s to-be-weds by Andrea E. McHugh
Green is the new white... well, not literally, but when it comes to wedding-day duds, some bridal and formal wear designers are now working with all-natural, environmentally-friendly fabrics. If you’re planning a decidedly “green” affair, saying your vows while clad in an eco-friendly gown and tuxedo (or suit) is a great way to show your commitment to one another and the environment.
32 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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800-287-5249 Visit
.com
For the bride As the bride makes her way down the aisle, just about everyone knows that what she’s wearing has been a careful, well-considered decision. With literally thousands of gowns out there, the quest for “the dress” can be daunting—even more so if it is for one that leaves a gentler impact on the earth. However, just because you want to go green, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style.
1. Samples and consignment gowns. Think you can’t wear a Vera Wang, Reem Acra or Monique Lhuillier creation while being environmentally conscious?Think again.Bridal shops will often sell their designer samples—particularly at the close of the season—at a fraction of the original retail price. So a purchase like this is not only gentler on your wallet, it is also of something that is already in circulation instead of something that has not yet been made.
The Most Beautiful Brides Come From…
Piccadilly Plaza 490 Shrewsbury Street Worcester 508-753-4426 Hours: M, Tue, F 10-6 W, Th 12-8 Sat. 10-5 Appointments suggested
www.pronuptiabridals.com
34 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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VOWS, in Newton, MA, offers designer samples at 50% – 75% off retail prices. Just before shop owner Leslie DeAngelo was married more than a decade ago, she dreamed of wearing a designer gown; however budget constraints limited her selection. But after tying the knot, this clever newlywed opened the high-end designer bridal outlet store giving brides-to-be the opportunity to capitalize on the previous season’s gowns. Even better, gowns are purchased on-site, which eliminates the traditional six-month (or more) wait for your order to arrive. In many cases, should it need it, VOWS will have the gown professionally cleaned and aisle ready. Finally, consider pre-owned (sometimes referred to as “gently used”) gowns. In the spirit of recycling, many brides are giving new life to their designer dresses by selling them in upscale boutiques and local consignment shops. If you don’t find the dress of your dreams, tell the shop owner what you are looking for; she might know about new inventory coming in or be able to recommend other sources. 2. Vintage. Strong fashion statements have been made by celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon and Julia Roberts when they arrived on the red carpet decked out in vintage fashions they knew no one else would have.Why shouldn’t a bride do the same? Vintage pieces not only ensure a unique look for the big day, they also reuse an already-on-the-market garment. Plus, before mass-production of clothing came into play, many vintage pieces were meticulously made
Mount Pleasant Country Club 369 Cross Street Boylston, MA 01505 (508) 869-2326 www.mountpleasantcc.org
Limo Affair
208 Main St., Oxford, MA www.limoaffair.net admin@limoaffair.net 508-731-0226 Toll free: 866-385-8222
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using quality fabrics and craftsmanship. If you buy a vintage piece, support your local economy and employ a good seamstress to make any alterations. 3. Untraditional fabrics. Those luxe gowns mentioned earlier garner eye-popping price tags not only because of hand-beaded embroidery and hand-sewn detail, but also due to the high-end synthetic fabrics upscale designers demand. “Most wedding dresses, name brand or not, are mass-produced oversees; many made out of rayon, acetate and other man made fabrics,” says Cindi Rapoza of Frill Weddings in Newport, RI. Processing a natural fabric like silk has less environmental impact than mass-produced synthetics. Not only is it biodegradable, it is also a renewable resource, which means it naturally replenishes and regenerates. However, silk may not be considered entirely green as its harvesting methods, factory labor processes, toxic dyes and fair trade concerns are debatable; and as a primarily Asian import, shipping is usually done by jet. Companies such as Oregon-based Aurora Silk advertising organic and certified fair trade silk, however, are emerging. Rapoza says much of her gown clientele are vegan brides who are committed to wearing an organic, cruelty-free gown. Might sound like a tall order, but surprisingly, isn’t. “Vegan brides mostly love that I work with cotton, linen and hemp,” she says. Like any custom gown, price can vary. But an experienced dressmaker can provide a ballpark cost after discussing the kind of fabric you want and the style of the gown you like (to calculate the amount of fabric that will be needed). You’ll also want to ask about the pros and cons of your chosen fabric so there are no wedding-day surprises. “Some fabrics wrinkle more,” cautions Rapoza, “and colors can be limited, too. But as a designer of lightweight dresses, Frill caters to the bride that loves linen regardless if it wrinkles.” WhenTerri Spaeth-Merrick founded Olivia Luca in Portland, OR, a charming line specializing in custom-made wedding and bridesmaids dresses, she opened a design studio with a sustainable point of view. Olivia Luca
Our Limousines feature: • LCD/TVs & DVD • Stemware/glassware • Stereo system • Fiber optic lighting • Privacy glass • Champagne We offer 6, 10 and 14 passenger limousines, as well as 18 and 22 Passenger Stretch SUV’s
… Creating an affair to remember.
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Wedding Cakes Custom Designed & Exquisitely Decorated in a variety of delicious flavors
239 Sterling Road Lancaster, MA • 01523
Studio Five
wwwisp.com/cakelady cakelady@wwwisp.com
(978) 365-5092 Consultations by appointment
dresses are made from natural fabrics including hemp silk charmeuse and shantung, organic cotton, organic linen and fair trade, hand-woven, hand-dyed silk. (Going the extra mile, fabric scraps are donated to a local nonprofit artist’s guild for reuse). Earth-friendly clients responded and brides now make up at least half of her business, much of which is online where users select a silhouette and fabric of their choosing. Olivia Luca bridesmaids’ dresses are often tea-length style with strapless, spaghetti and halter necklines. Best of all, the chic styles can be worn again. “They’re not so wedding-y,” laughs Spaeth-Merrick.
For the groom
Dianne Rockwell T he Cake Lady Now reserving dates for 2008 and 2009
Before running off to a tailor with a swathe of hemp fabric in a single-breasted effort to save the planet, a responsible groom needs to consider his everyday lifestyle. A handmade suit, even if it’s in a natural fabric, may set even the most well-meaning do-gooder back a bit financially and will require new materials. If a groom is not likely to wear this suit again, then renting—considered reusing in the green biz—is the way to go, especially if it is only going to be worn once. Like the bride, vintage pieces and consigned suits are also earth-friendly, budget savvy options. Well-made suits can last a while and styles, save for ruffled shirts and groovy hues, haven’t changed considerably in a long time. For less formal weddings, ask your groomsmen to wear coordinated suits or slacks and shirts. Seaside weddings in New England welcome groomsmen donned in traditional Nantucket reds, crisp white shits and the ubiquitous navy blue blazer. Casual nuptials by the ocean many times invite unfussy khaki pants paired with a traditional Havana Shirt, festooned by a colorful boutonnière, of course.
Outdoor patio • Two state of the art function rooms available for any bridal event.
Going green is unquestionably in fashion, and exploring cutting-edge options can be a thrill. If this sounds appealing, let decadence take a backseat to purposeful, conscious decisions and you’ll have left a gentler footprint for future couples to follow. B&G Andrea E. McHugh, a frequent contributor to BRIDE&GROOM ™ Magazine, is a freelance writer based in Newport, RI.
36 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Auburn Mall, Auburn
508 832-9994
Solomon Pond Mall, Marlboro ENGAGEMENT BRIDAL
508 624-9994
WEDDING PA RT Y
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$25. off the retail price tag listing of any one item of $100 or more. S o m e ex c lu s io n s ap p ly. S ee s t o res fo r d et a ils . Of fer ex p ires Decem b er 31 , 2 0 0 8 .
From
Scratch Creative and customized cuisine for a personal wedding-day menu by Elizabeth C. Regan
The weather isn’t the only thing in New England that is uniquely varied, invigorating and a delight to the senses—so is its culinary landscape. Cuisine here is steeped in tradition, providing a tasty base that innovative chefs use along with fresh, local ingredients and a dash of international inspiration when creating modern wedding-day delights. This means that Central Massachusetts couples have a wide range of options when planning a personalized menu that reflects where they come from, where they’re going and how they want to celebrate the journey.
38 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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reate your intimate wedding celebration at Old Sturbridge Village, set amidst Early American charm and attended to with impeccable world-class service. Exchange your vows in our romantic, candle-lit antique meeting house. Ride from the ceremony to the reception in a horse-drawn carriage. Then, enjoy family, friends and an exceptional meal served in the simple elegance of an 1830s tavern. We can host weddings from 50 to 250 people. Discover more at osv.org, or call 508-347-0398.
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40 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Your culinary profile
Call today for your complimentary wedding consultation
www.blacklightphoto.com
You’ve heard of personality or career profiles, right? It turns out the same concept can be applied to food. John Andrews, the catering manager of David’s Catering and Events in Woburn, MA, uses just such an assessment to glean information about each client. “I’m a big fan of what I call the ‘culinary profile,’” he says. By getting to know what each bride and groom wants—as well as what they think their guests are looking for—Andrews is able to help his clients design a custom menu from scratch. So instead of choosing from a set of pre-determined options, couples work with Andrews to create a culinary experience that is uniquely theirs. This emphasis on a couple’s individuality reflects the “boutique” attitude becoming popular among brides and grooms looking for distinctive ways to express themselves. Caterers that recognize this, such as David’s, realize the value of customization. “If you were looking for a really special pair of jeans, you’d go into a boutique and find the most amazing jeans that nobody else has,” says Andrews. “If you get six proposals [from other caterers], you may not necessarily get what we have, because we have exactly what you want.”
The recipe for success As a surefire way to create a truly personalized wedding menu, many couples provide recipes that have played an important role in their family life or their relationship. From the memorable meal they enjoyed on their first date to that favorite family recipe passed down through the generations, couples can tell a small chapter of their story with a thoughtfully designed dinner. Melissa Laskowski, function manager at Blissful Meadows Golf Club in Uxbridge, MA, works with two on-site chefs to customize such menu offerings. For a recent wedding, a couple submitted a recipe for chicken breast with a parmesan, garlic and herb crust. The simple dish was meaningful because it was something the bride- and groom-to-be prepared and enjoyed often together. One of Blissful’s chefs whipped it up as part of the couple’s food tasting (which they happily approved), and the resulting dish was served as one of the two entrées at the reception.
Sally E. Jablonski Joan R. Moreschi Rena R. Hendrickson
President Master Wedding Specialist Design Specialist
Wedding Specialists for Over 70 Years 19 Blackstone River Road, Worcester, MA 01607 508-755-5888 or 1-800-383-2374 www.bergflorist.com Mention this ad to receive a FREE head table centerpiece with your wedding purchase. Expires 12-27-08
Limo Affair
208 Main St., Oxford, MA www.limoaffair.net admin@limoaffair.net 508-731-0226 Toll free: 866-385-8222
Serving MA, CT, RI & NH
Our Rolls Royce features: • Imported from England • Right hand drive • 1969 Silver Shadow We offer 6, 10 and 14 passenger limousines, as well as 18 and 22 Passenger Stretch SUV’s
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Fresh ideas
Handmade the Old Fashioned Way Fine Cakes, Desserts, Pastries & Baked Goods
Fresh All Natural Ingredients
Open 7 Days
508-754-0505 288 Boston Tpk. – Rt. 9 Shrewsbury
Handmade from Scratch No Preservatives
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A Full Service Boutique Wedding Gowns Prom Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses Mother’s Dresses Wedding accessories
32A South Main St. (Route 122) Uxbridge, MA 01569
42 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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The use of fresh, local ingredients is one of the most popular trends in Central Massachusetts. Worcester’s own Struck Catering buys fresh produce from the local farmer’s market and makes every effort to incorporate those seasonal ingredients into each meal. Under the ownership of Barbara Cotter, Struck creates dishes that are pleasing to both the palate and the eye. Whether the vegetables stand on their own as part of the main entrée or serve as a compote or garnish (Cotter mentions cranberry chutney or a red pepper relish as two examples), the fresh display adds flavor and style. John Andrews also advocates the local approach. “Regional is huge,” he says. “In the winter, you’ve got to go with the root vegetables—the things people see outside, the colors people see outside, like the pumpkins and the gourds.Whether it’s apples or tomatoes in season, you’ve got to use them.”
Home and abroad Couples looking to share their family heritages in their wedding menu are finding that international influences can complement those local ingredients.As many marriages unite different backgrounds and ethnicities, a homogenous. “American” menu might not cut it. Sometimes, international elements are incorporated on a small scale. Barbara Cotter recalls the wedding of a second-generation Polish couple where light rye bread and several Polish appetizers were served before a main course featuring straightforward American fare—a compromise that worked well for the couple.
C.J. Yates Photography
C.J. Yates Photography
Visit www.wachusettvillageinn.com
Call 978-571-2524
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9 Village Inn Road, Westminster, MA 01473
Wachusett Village Inn host wedding tastings every other month, with our own Wachusett Wedding Specialists on hand for your every wedding need.
Join us in celebrating your engagement while planning your wedding!
Country Elegance
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The main selling point is the diverse array of foods available at any given wedding; only imagination limits the kind of stations a couple can offer. Over the course of many weddings, David’s has served up unique favorites like the Island Oasis station, featuring swordfish with charred banana chutney atop lime steamed jasmine rice; a table of pistachio crusted rack of lamb with poached plum and fingerling potatoes; and a kid-friendly Italian station with giant meatballs, a garlic bread skewer and spaghetti with red sauce.
“They wanted everything to be very American, but they needed to pull in their family traditions as well,” says Cotter. Other couples bring a host of flavorful international traditions to the table offering mouth-watering possibilities. John Andrews worked with a Brazilian bride and her Bostonian fiancé to create an inclusive menu. Using small food stations with portions similar to those used in tapas fashion, an arrangement of stations catered to North and South American tastes. From carved Brazilian style
barbecued beef and fried plantains to clam chowder and beef tenderloin, both sides of the family were deliciously represented.
Big taste in small packages Small food stations are the most popular option for couples planning their 2008 weddings with David’s Catering and Events. Such stations feature five-ounce portions served on small plates. “It’s a little more than an appetizer, a little less than a buffet,” says Andrews.
A wedding menu that represents your shared history, interests and tastes does not have to be more expensive than the pre-packaged options. By selecting the right caterer and using your imagination to make its details your own, you can affordably create a one-of-a-kind experience that will stick in the culinary memory of those in attendance for years to come. B&G Elizabeth C. Regan, a frequent contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine, is a freelance writer based in Connecticut.
Experience the Doubletree Difference...
Come by or Call 508-616-7436 Today! Doubletree Hotel Boston/Westborough 5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581 www.bostonwestborough.doubletree.com 44 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Create your own
Historical Romance
Our custom designed packages are filled with thoughtful details to make your day extra special. Call our wedding coordinators or visit our website for complete package details.
The Publick House has been creating picturesque New England weddings for over 235 years. Our magnificent cathedral ceilings and antique colonial chandeliers are just the beginning of a perfectly romantic reception. To find out more about our exquisite receptions, showers and rehearsal dinners, call our wedding coordinators. You’ll be on your way to creating your own historical romance. On the Common Route 131 P.O. Box 187 Sturbridge, MA 01566
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Phone 1-800-PUBLICK
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sales@publickhouse.com
Wedding planningjust got easier. ™ BRIDE&GROOM Magazine
Now online!
Log on to see what's in the latest issue, what’s coming up and to find out where to get your free copy.
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The
wedding morning breakfast
Getting your day off to a great start by Sharon Naylor
When you wake up on the morning of your wedding, and the realization hits that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your big day, you could jump out of bed, grab a cup of coffee and a pastry and race through your to-do list frantically and in a sweat. Or, you could spend that morning in the company of your nearest and dearest friends and family, enjoying a wonderful breakfast together before you head out to the salon for hair and makeup. Which sounds like a better start to your day?
46 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Experience a New England Tradition The Sturbridge Host Hotel on Cedar Lake offers exemplary service in the New England tradition. Choose from one of our all-inclusive Wedding Packages or customize a package to suit your specific needs. Whether you’re in our lakeside tent, outdoor gazebo, indoor garden terrace or Grand Ballroom, warm and personal attention awaits you and your guests. Also available for Showers and
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Rehearsal Dinners.
On the Shores of Cedar Lake Ask about our special overnight group rates for out of town guests.
(508) 347-7393 366 Main Street • Sturbridge, MA • 01566 Email: info@sturbridgehosthotel.com Visit our web site for all of your wedding needs. www.sturbridgehosthotel.com
creative
From simple to sophisticated, you choose the theme and we’ll create the menu.
delicious
Go from “function” to fabulous with delectable cuisine made by our passionate chefs.
trusted
We’re not just a vendor, we’re your partner – dedicated to creating a memorable experience!
affordable
Stay in your budget with our flexible, tiered pricing.
Simply Delicious. Simply Struck. Struck Catering is a preferred vendor of some of the area’s premier wedding venues: Tuckerman Hall, Mechanics Hall, Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Worcester Art Museum and Higgins Armory Museum.
Worcester, MA weddings
508.755.5953
showers
www.struckcatering.com
engagement parties
rehearsal dinners
It’s vitally important that you and your bridal party have a good breakfast to give you energy, keep you free from caffeine and sugar crashes later in the day and hold you over until the cocktail party. Brides and grooms who skip breakfast are more likely to get the shakes or even faint during the ceremony, so invest a little bit of that wedding budget for a wedding day breakfast that will give you the fuel you need to function well all morning—and provide quality time with everyone around you. Here are our top planning tips for getting a great start to your day.
Whom to invite Wedding morning breakfasts can take place in two locations: where the bride is and where the groom is. If you both choose to arrange for this meal, you should invite your immediate family, bridal party members (and appropriate guests for both) and child members of the bridal party with their parents. Parents often request that out-of-town guests (or other relatives and friends) be included, however that can make things too crowded and busy. If you keep it to just the bridal party, you can handle the business of the morning such as dressing and posing for photos without too much interference and chatty relatives holding you up. So a gracious “no” to the request for extra guests would be your best bet.
Send invitations An electronic invitation, or E-vite, is fine as are pretty invitation cards printed and mailed to your VIP guest list. This event is called a “Wedding Morning Breakfast” or “Wedding Morning Brunch” so that it’s not confused with the day-after-the-wedding breakfast or brunch.
Menu options Keep the menu easy, such as a selection of flavored bagels with different spreads and maybe some lox, a range of muffins, cubed fruits and one home-prepared dish such as a platter of scrambled eggs.You don’t want to obligate someone to stand at the stove making omelettes or French toast all morning, so make this a self-serve buffet. A variety of juices and a great tasting coffee are also musthaves for this breakfast. 48 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Share the food If the groom and his guys don’t plan for this type of gathering, send a volunteer over to their hotel room or house with a share of the breakfast foods you’re serving at your place. Why not throw in a bottle of champagne, some coffee or juice for their toasting needs? They’ll be appreciative, to be sure.
Keep it hot Purchase warming trays—those aluminum platters with the Sterno’s below—at a party supply or warehouse store.Your menu items will stay warm for the duration of the breakfast, which will allow some of your guests the option of arriving late and still getting a great meal.
Have a kids’ menu For the children, offer little boxes of cereal in case bagels or muffins aren’t their favorites. Frozen sausage links or patties heated up in the oven or microwave are another quick option. However you might want to stay away from eating anything salty as it could cause bloating or make you thirsty.
Tuckerman Hall Corner of Salisbury and Tuckerman Streets
Worcester, MA
508-754-1234 • 508-752-3671 www.tuckermanhall.org Frederick Peck Photography
Stay hydrated Too much champagne and you’ll get giddy; too much coffee and you’ll be wired. Provide pretty pitchers of water with lemon, orange or lime slices so that everyone can get refreshed and hydrated for the day ahead.
Serving smarts Prevent a sink full of dishes by investing in high quality disposable plates, utensils and serving pieces. These can be tossed after the breakfast, making for a quick and easy cleanup.
Limo Affair
208 Main St., Oxford, MA www.limoaffair.net admin@limoaffair.net 508-731-0226 Toll free: 866-385-8222
Serving MA, CT, RI & NH
Our Limousines feature: • LCDs/DVD & PS2 • Tinted windows • Stereo system • Fiber optic lighting • Fish tanks • Lighting discs, strobes & lasers We offer 6, 10 and 14 passenger limousines, as well as 18 and 22 Passenger Stretch SUV’s
… Creating an affair to remember.
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BRIDE&GROOM Winter 2008
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For the Perfect Wedding
T
rust your Special Day to the Bakery, which has been voted Worcester County’s “Best Bakery” for more than 37 years.
THE CROWN BAKERY
Party Pastries Cookie Trays
133 Gold Star Blvd. Worcester, MA thecrownbakery.com
(508) 852-0746
Wide Assortment of Cake Ornaments
Make it pretty A single, low-set floral centerpiece would be great for the buffet table. An inexpensive arrangement can be purchased at a grocery store, or you can ask your florist to put something together using extra flowers from your wedding-day arrangements. However, don’t attempt to use your bridal bouquets as centerpieces for this party; you don’t want syrup splashes on your roses.
Consider outdoor dining On a beautiful sunny day, dining on a terrace or picnicking in your backyard could be lovely. If you can’t take it outside, plan different seating groupings in the dining room, living room or kitchen to encourage your guests to sit anywhere they’d like, rather than setting a big, formal table for everyone.There is going to be a lot of moving around, so this more fluid arrangement will work best for everyone.
Give it a soundtrack Play your favorite CD or create a music mix to add a laid-back atmosphere to this party. There is much to do ahead of you, so some low-key music is a great way to start the day.
Have someone watch the clock You don’t want to be late for your beauty appointment or run behind on time for dressing and photos, so appoint someone as the timekeeper. He or she can let you know when it’s an hour before you have to dress so that you can finish your meal without rushing. Allow for two to three hours for this breakfast so that everyone can enjoy their meal before proceeding off to the tasks ahead.
Propose a toast This is the last quiet moment of the day, so have everyone raise their glasses while you thank them for their important roles in your life and in this wedding day. Get this on video if you can, since it’s the first toast of the day and an important moment for all of you.
Have a plan for hotel guests While you’re at your breakfast, make sure there’s a plan for your out-of-town guests. Arrange a catered breakfast for them in a small party room at the hotel, or just let 50 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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“New Englands Best Kept Secret”
them know about the hotel’s breakfast options (such as free Continental breakfast in the lobby that morning).
No need for favors Guests can’t take them along to the wedding, so this is one event where you don’t need to give out take-aways. But do have extra printed directions to the ceremony and reception site for anyone who isn’t riding with you, or who has forgotten to bring their copy. Having a stack of printed papers on the counter or table by the door is a smart supply for B&G everyone. Sharon Naylor is the author of The Mother of the Bride Book and Mother of the Groom, as well as over 30 additional wedding planning books. www.sharonnaylor.net
Home sweet hotel For couples on a destination wedding or simply staying at a hotel the night before the big day, the wedding morning breakfast can still be had. If your room is a spacious suite, room service is a nice option. If more space is needed, inquire with the concierge about the availability of a hospitality suite, which is specifically designed for small gatherings. Of course the hotel’s on-site restaurant will serve just as nicely. –LD
Charter Oak c o u n t ry c lu b
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… Creating an affair to remember.
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Ericson Photography/www.ericsonphoto.com
Just desserts Top off your nuptial meal with alternative sweet treats 52 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
b y Ta r y n P l u m b
Wedding cake might be the perfect sweet indulgence: irresistibly soft and spongy with rich frosting that dissolves on your tongue and leaves you wanting to enjoy every last creamy bite. Still, how did cake commandeer the wedding sweet spot? For years, it has stood as a sugary sentinel at the blessed event, casting a multi-tiered shadow over hundreds of other delectable desserts. Yet these days, not everyone is partial to this delectable dessert being the sole finale to the nuptial meal, or can afford lavishly decorated full-sized cakes. That’s why local pastry pros urge couples to consider other dessert options. “Think about your guest list,” says Michelle Bohigian, owner of Something Sweet by Michelle in Worcester, MA. “You don’t want to pay a lot for a cake if no one will eat it.What it comes down to is: ‘How important is the cake for the couple?’” If you decide to eschew cascading rows of sugary roses on layers of frosted goodness on your big day, you’ll want to check out this list of tasty alternatives. www.bridegroommag.com
Cupcakes
the child-sized variety you might envision from your youth. They come in hundreds of flavors, from Boston cream pie to espresso, with frosting that can be made to match dress colors and invitation patterns. Some are even more decadent. Brito, for instance, offers a cupcake called “black tie affair,” which is topped with a strawberry dipped in dark and white chocolate and decked with bow-tie and buttons. The dapper fruit can be paired with a matching “bride,” which is dunked in white
It’s an oh-so-tiny step away from a full-sized cake, but bakers say cupcakes have many benefits—most notably the ability to offer portioned desserts in many flavors that can please every palate on your guest list. “That way, everyone can have something they like,” says Renata Brito, owner of Beantown Cupcakes in Winthrop, MA, which boasts 25 flavors. Today’s gourmet cupcakes aren’t exactly
chocolate and sprinkled with edible gold dust. “The cake is just one look,” she says. But with cupcakes, “each flavor has a different design.” Still, if you just can’t pull away from that traditional, tiered look of a cake, these mini cakes can be arranged similarly and draped with real or frosting flowers.
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Where to get them: Beantown Cupcakes features 25 flavors that start at $2.50 each and sport fun titles including “Ruby Red,” a traditional red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting, an allcoconut “Snowball” and a rich “Cookies & Cream.” www.beantowncupcakes.com Blue Hydrangea Bake Shop inWorcester, MA, also offers multiple flavors, from espresso to orange zest to strawberry. Each cupcake can be topped with chocolate-covered strawberries, sugar daisies or edible, sugar-dipped pansies and snapdragons. www.bluehydrangeabakeshop.com Something Sweet by Michelle bakes a “jumbo muffin size” cupcake that starts at $6. One of their most popular flavors is apple spice cake, made with apples and caramel and served with an apple cider reduction. www.some thingsweetbymichelle.com Worcester’s Crown Bakery features cupcakes in vanilla, chocolate and marble, graciously topped with cream cheese, white or chocolate frosting. Starting at $1, they can be decked with sugar flowers or green marzipan leaves. www.thecrownbakery.com
Table cakes If you still have pangs about replacing traditional cake, a downsized version might ease the transition. Small cakes, usually eight inches around, can be placed one to a table for your guests to cut themselves.
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Like cupcakes, bakers say table cakes come in all the same flavors as full-sized cakes.This allows for more flavor choices and also gives everyone a chance to have some, eliminating the left-out feeling experienced by lastminute cake table stragglers. Traditionally, the bride and groom also get a small wedding cake to use for the ceremonial cutting. Where to get them: Something Sweet by Michelle makes eight-inch-
that begin at $25 and comprise three layers of golden sponge cake filled with vanilla custard and raspberry, then topped with whipped frosting, green or pink marzipan and a single rose. wide by six-inch-tall cakes that start at $100 and yield 12 “very healthy” servings. Gourmet flavors include bittersweet chocolate with bittersweet ganache and caramel, chocolate with pecan caramel and coconut cream. Crown Bakery crafts domed princess tortes
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Cookies, brownies and pastries Nothing beats finger food. Beside the fact that hand-held snacks are easier to eat and make for less mess, an assortment of goodies gives guests an even wider variety of choices. Even diet-conscious guests will appreciate these smaller portions over large slices of cake. Very often, these smaller desserts are displayed on a formal bar, arranged on tiers. They can also be passed at each table. “They’re all picked up by hand,” explains Genie Tsapralis, store manager at Crown Bakery, of these bite-sized offerings. “One or two bites, you only need a napkin.” Where to get them: Trays offered by Crown Bakery hold at least threedozen treats and can be packed with almond sticks, mini baklava, marzipan triangles, sugar cookies, macaroons, truffles, chocolate balls and “tuxedo strawberries” dipped in dark or light chocolate and twisted to look like bow-ties. Blue Hydrangea Bake Shop specializes in more than a dozen flavors of gourmet cookies, from double chocolate to chocolate peanut butter cup to oatmeal cranberry, and brownies in walnut, pecan, toasted pecan blondies and white chocolate chunk. Both desserts can be bought in tray form or as bagged favors. For harvest-season weddings, they also offer individual bread puddings and three-inch round apple pies. Something Sweet by Michelle bakes two-inch tarts and pastries for wedding trays and tiers including Napoleons, lemon Whoopie pies, chocolate-dipped pretzel sticks, lemon and white chocolate raspberry tarts and miniature cream puffs and éclairs. Even if you choose to let them eat cake, your guests are sure to love any one of these delectable dessert options. So why not consider them as add-ons to your menu or as favors to take home?You’ll send everyone off B &G with a sweet farewell. Taryn Plumb is a freelance writer based inWorcester, MA.
Additional tasty treats Whoopie pies A quintessential Maine treat, this perfect marriage of sponge cake and whipped frosting is utensil free and less messy than traditional cake. You can also send them home with your guests as individually packaged favors. Where to get them: Cranberry Island Kitchen Cumberland, ME www.cranberryislandkitchen.com (207) 829-5200 Specializes in a maypole whoopie pie wedding cake fit for the sea lover. Also a great conversation piece, this selection offers tiers of mussel-shaped chocolate whoopie pies. The bakery similarly makes lobster-shaped shortbread cookies that can be dressed up with a tux or veil and emblazoned with the bride and groom’s name. Don’t worry… they deliver.
Wicked Whoopies Gardiner, Maine www.wickedwhoopies.com (877) 447-2629 Inventive flavors include red velvet, vanilla bean, banana cream peanut butter, strawberry Whoop-de-Doo (tastily dipped in chocolate) and classic. They also make giant whoopie pie cakes in gingerbread and chocolate that serve nine to 12—perfect for table cakes.
Cheescake These dense, rich, cream cheese desserts are becoming an ever popular alternative to traditional sponge cake and, no longer just cherry-topped, the variety of flavors will astound you! Keep in mind, though, that cheesecake may be too rich for some palates, so be sure to have other options available.
Where to get them: Providence Wedding Cake Company Providence, RI (401) 751-4449 Exotic, fun flavors include piña colada, key lime and creamsicle. Also of note: To ensure the freshest possible cake, this boutique prefers to work with instate clients.
The Cheesecake Factory Massachusetts www.thecheesecakefactory.com Natick (508) 653-0011 Boston (617) 399-7777 Offers gourmet flavors such as pumpkin (seasonal), white chocolate raspberry truffle, fresh banana cream, Oreo, chocolate chip cookie dough, Dutch apple caramel streusel, Snickers, tiramisu and mixed berry. These generally come in 10-inch or seven-inch round sizes, so they would make great table cakes allowing for more flavor choices for your guests.
Cover All Your Legs! Photo Courtesy RussRo Photography
(508) 839-9332
www.ElegantLinensLtd.com www.bridegroommag.com
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trends in bridal bouquets
New
by Sharon Naylor
The wedding bouquet has never been lovelier, with new trends in colors, shapes and varieties of blooms making their way down bridal aisles across the country. More than just a single pretty floral piece, it’s an important accent to the style of dress worn by the bride (or bridesmaid). So, there’s far more emphasis on how it coordinates with the bride’s complete look. As you look for bouquet flowers keep your gown in mind… the perfect curve of blooms could highlight the silhouette of your dress and make you look all the more gorgeous. The following are the newest trends in bouquet styling.
Colors The classic all-white bridal bouquet will always be in style. Traditional brides may choose either a simple type of flower (such as roses) or a mix of gardenias, stephanotis and other white blooms. Slight variations on that theme are mostly-white bouquets with a few touches of blush pastels in pink, yellow, blue and even lavender or coral for just the slightest 58 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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shading. What’s most interesting about the bride having a white and pastel bouquet is that she may have the same style as her bridesmaids, only hers is a bit larger. Bright, monochromatic solid colors are also fashionable, with vivid reds being a hot trend. Contrasting a white or ivory gown, this color pops both in person and in photographs. Other monochromatic color schemes are designed to match the location and style of the wedding such as aqua blues or corals
The cascade bouquet
was considered “out” for the past
several years but is now returning with a
gentler waterfall effect that still presents the drape of delicate flowers and greenery, yet without being too long. for a beach location, pinks for a garden event, persimmon oranges for fall, and those spectacular reds for winter. If you don’t like the striking look of an all-bright bouquet, mix in some lighter shades to give the arrangement some depth and dimension. Another popular color scheme is green as an accent to an all-white bouquet. From incorporating light green flowers to adding more green filler, this natural look is in. (Just be aware that many green flowers can produce some of the strongest reactions among allergy sufferers.) Color is likely to be your first consideration, so talk to your floral designer about the newest shades of your favorite flowers. Roses, of course, come in just about all shades, but did you know that you can get green or cabernet-colored calla lilies? Ask about ranges of hues to get the most unique and creative visual effect for your bouquet. Flower colors aren’t just solids, either.Ask your floral expert to show you some that have subtle or dramatic stripes, which could be a beautiful mix-in with a group of solidcolored blooms.
A busy bouquet? According to floral experts, combining many types of flowers can create a “busy” look. Color can play a role, as can the type of flower. In fact, bright hues may be too much for some brides so bring in lots of photos for your floral expert’s advice on what meets your wishes. One trend is to stick with traditional bridal flowers, such as roses, with an unusual addition such as tropical flowers or gloriosa lilies. Another is to add texture with blooms that have unique formations, such as ranunculus and peonies, or rippled edges for a softer feel.
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Styles
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The style and shape of the bouquet will, again, depend on your gown and your sense of style. Many brides still prefer the traditional hand-tied, round-shaped bouquet or a nosegay in a smaller size. Making a comeback right now is the cascade bouquet, where the blooms flow gently downward for an elongated arrangement. This type of bouquet was considered “out” for the past several years but is now returning with a gentler waterfall effect that still presents the drape of delicate flowers and greenery, yet without being too long. A few lines of flowers on wire extending two feet from a hand-held bouquet, for example, creates a modern, city-chic look. Artsy, asymmetrical bouquets with eyecatching shapes and additions of, say, feathers or gently hanging ribbons also bring a fresh sense of style.Those feathers could easily coordinate with others placed delicately in the bride’s hair or on her gown’s train as an accent. Budget-conscious brides love the look of three to five single flowers tied together with ribbon and carried in the bend of the arm. Calla lilies are the number one choice for this style of bouquet for their size and sturdiness, while Gerbera daisies are popular for their burst of color and cheerful tone. In springtime, a handtied, hand-held cluster might be a bright bunch of tulips or a gathering of white daisies.
Additions Formal wedding bouquets are often accented with lots of light-catching crystals or pearl pins for a dramatic effect. Whimsical bouquets at garden weddings, however, might feature motifs of tiny butterflies on wires inserted into the bouquet form.
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Yet another visual-effects trend is to pin things underneath the bouquet. More brides are adding extra meaning to the underside or handle of their bouquet by attaching a saint medallion or tying on tiny photo frames with pictures of departed loved ones. This added element means a bride literally carries that person or the meaningful blessings of a saint or religious icon with her for that all-important walk down the aisle. Other popular adornments are tiny silver charms that can be removed to create a bracelet for the bride to wear or to become an heirloom. Whether you prefer a tried-and-true traditional look or gravitate toward a bouquet that is bold and unusual, there is something for every bride. No matter what style you choose, even the smallest addition will make it uniquely yours. B&G
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Of
SEA LOVE
“Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.” - Kahlil Gibran
OceanView Inn and Resort Benoit Photography, www.benoit-photography.com
Oceanside reception venues by Andrea E. McHugh
64 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
Perhaps it is the serenity of the sea, or maybe the hypnotic sound of whitewater washing up on shore as gulls call through the air… Whatever the reason, the soon-to-bewed often turn to stunning oceanfront settings as the perfect milieu to tie the knot. Marrying in New England affords a myriad breathtaking vistas, but none perhaps as stunning as those overlooking crashing waves or soothing coastlines. Unique reception sites at water’s edge dot the region and can set the tone for brides and grooms who love the sea. Here are four of our top picks.
www.bridegroommag.com
Benoit Photography, www.benoit-photography.com
Cohasset Harbor Inn
Ocean View Inn and Resort Delicately situated on the scenic back shore of Gloucester, MA, sits the Ocean View Inn and Resort.There are multiple properties on this seaside compound, all with distinct amenities and architectural interest. The Manor House, built in 1910, was originally called Twin Light Manor, named for the twin lighthouses on Thatcher Island visible from the estate.This stunning turn-of-the-centuryTudor Revival once served as the private summer estate for two prominent families, most famous of whom was the Dorrance family, who made their fortune as owners of the Campbell Soup Company. (The family continues to own half of the company today.) The Bowler brothers, John andAlexander—later founders of Bowler Brothers, Ltd., the Worcester-based brewing company—designed High Cliff Lodge which presently serves as the main function hall. Originally built in 1908 as a stately summer cottage, John Bowler designed the home, a hybrid of Shingle and Queen Anne styles, to maximize the stunning panoramic ocean views. In wasn’t until 1957 when an eight-unit motel was added to the compound on the manor parcel. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, more units and buildings transformed the five-plus scenic acres into a haven for families and special events such as weddings. Due in large part to its storied history and innovative architecture, the property has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. With ample outdoor decks, sweeping Atlantic views and a grassy expanse peppered with plantings that sway in the saltair breeze, couples craving New England elegance are sure to feel at home here. Even the most stressed-out bride can relax as all of the property’s ample amenities— on-site catering team, room for additional tents, a private billiard room, on-site pub and the Ocean’s Edge restaurant that makes for an ideal, convenient venue for the rehearsal dinner or post wedding brunch—are at her beck and call. Even better… with all the on-site accommodations (and varied price points to appeal to a wide range of budgets), guests can relax and turn your wedding into their Cohasset Harbor Inn very own getaway weekend.
Judith Sargent Photography, www.jcsphotography.com
OceanView Inn and Resort
Cohasset Harbor Resort in Cohasset, MA, encompasses the Cohasset Harbor Inn,Atlantica Restaurant and the Olde Salt House.Weddings at the inn are especially appealing to those who enjoy sailing, maritime history or who have a simple appreciation for the nautical-inspired lifestyle. Harbor-side ceremonies are often graced by boats quietly gliding across the water, while the newly renovated oceanfront banquet room ensures unsurpassed views in a stylish atmosphere. Named the Harborside Room, seating is available for up to 120 guests; couples can choose a formal four-course dinner, a festive casual buffet or even the traditional New England clam bake for guests to savor. An expansive outdoor brick patio sits at the harbor’s edge, invoking the feel of a charming English garden ideal for ceremonies and cocktail hours. The to-be-wed can scratch many tasks off their perennial to-do list as wedding packages at the inn include a chilled champagne toast, linens, an event coordinator and wedding cake. Fine cuisine plays a prominent role in any wedding held at the inn, and the on-site chefs and full staff are happy to plan a menu celebrating the bounty of the sea. Shrimp cocktail, coconut shrimp, smoked salmon, baked stuffed mushrooms with crabmeat and sea scallops wrapped in bacon are just some of the featured hors d’oeuvres. And what New England nuptials would be complete without offering clam chowder, seafood or lobster bisque? While there is an array of land-lubbing entrées, freshly caught baby cod, roasted Chilean Sea Bass or grilled swordfish round out seafood dinner choices. The inn’s Atlantica Restaurant fits the bill for a rehearsal dinner for a weekend wedding at the resort. Out-of-town guests can feel right at home with the convenience of accommodations right on-site.
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Emerson Inn by the Sea
receptions. “People who come to Emerson Inn take advantage of the best of the North Shore,” says DeCarolis, adding that area activities such as sailing aboard a schooner and whale watching are often a part of wedding weekend festivities. Receptions are commonly held in stately banquet rooms boasting seemingly endless water views.Able to accommodate up to 150 guests, the inn’s wedding business has grown considerably since 2005, when Rockport granted the inn the first liquor license in the town since 1933. For guests who want to steal a few moments alone, wooden rocking chairs along the front porch proffer a quiet respite from reception hoopla. Much of Benoit Photography, www.benoit-photography.com the original architecture is intact Emerson Inn by the Sea throughout the inn, with portions delicately preserved and carefully New England is prideful about its deeply rooted history, and the proud restored. Rooms and suites, some with balconies, come in various legacy of Emerson Inn by the Sea in Rockport, MA, is no excepsizes, while two private oceanfront cottages offer secluded lodging— tion. From its early beginnings as a modest inn during the mid-19th perfect for newlyweds who crave the convenience of staying on site century to its luxurious rebirth as the Hotel Edward after 1911, visiyet still being tucked away from the well-traveled wedding guests. tors traveled far and wide to seek out this “modern” escape. Arguably the hotel’s most celebrated guest, poet RalphWaldo Emerson was said The Towers to have been seduced by the picturesque rocky coast of Cape Ann, One of Southern New England’s most recognizable iconic landmarks, returning over the course of many summers with his family for quiet The Towers in Narragansett, RI, offers a glimpse into the past and retreat and poetic inspiration. In 1965, new owners of the inn renamed stands as a testament to our timeless love affair with the sea. Designed it after the poet, calling it the Ralph Waldo Emerson Inn. by famed architectural firm Meade, McKim &White (the trio designed Today, engaged couples who come to the inn quickly fall for its olda host of prominent buildings throughout NewYork City and Boston, world charm and dazzling seascape. Perched atop a rocky bluff, the including the Boston Public Library),TheTowers became the epicenter oceanside grounds are idyllic for outdoor ceremonies while the hotel’s of social activity in this thriving resort city. Completed in 1886, The grand parlor, stylishly appointed with period furnishings, offers posh Towers were part of the Narragansett Pier Casino, where formal ambiance for vows taken indoors. dances became the highlight of the evening. At the turn of the century, “Classic charm with modern comfort,” explains Sue DeCarolis, a crippling fire devastated the casino, but The Towers, with its impenbanquet manager “is what makes brides, grooms and their guests enjoy etrable granite walls, was the only element that survived.Though it has a memorable experience at the inn.” been battered through countless squalls, nor’easters and the Great To take advantage of the property’s expansive views, wedding coorHurricane of 1938, this rock-solid landmark has been carefully dinators at the property encourage afternoon or early evening restored to its original splendor. 66 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Emerson Inn by the Sea
Throughout the year, especially in the summer and early autumn, newlyweds relive The Towers’ 19th-century tradition of dancing the night away while overlooking the sea. Receptions are held in the great hall situated between the famous twin turrets located above the archway that spans the appropriately-named Ocean Road. If you have dreamt about toasting your nuptials in the salt air, you can open a stretch of nine-pane windows to let in the swirling sea breeze. As the pièce de résistance of Narragansett’s stunning landscape, many couples select this property as it fuses a by-the-sea feel with a ballroomlike setting.
Benoit Photography, www.benoit-photography.com
Comfortably seating up to 180 guests, the rustic interior of The Towers boasts natural granite and brick walls, hardwood floors, exposed beams and dim romantic lighting.The hall’s unique rectangular shape (the room measures 130' x 20') provides ample room for guests to dine at traditional round tables or in the increasingly popular family-style with seating at long rectangular tables. The only distraction at The Towers is that your guests might be caught staring hypnotically off into the captivating sunsets!
James Hazelwood, www.jameshazelwood.com
Andrea E. McHugh, a frequent contributor to BRIDE&GROOM ™ Magazine, is a freelance writer based in Newport, RI.
Where to find them Ocean View Inn and Resort 171 Atlantic Road Gloucester, MA (978) 283-6200 · (800) 315-7557 www.oceanviewinnandresort.com The Towers
Cohasset Harbor Inn 124 Elm Street Cohasset, MA (781) 383-6650 · (800) 252-5287 www.cohassetharborresort.com Emerson Inn by the Sea 1 Cathedral Avenue Rockport, MA (978) 546-6321 · (800) 964-5550 www.emersoninnbythesea.com The Towers 35 Ocean Road Narragansett, Rhode Island (401) 982-2597 www.thetowersri.com
Main Event Weddings, www.maineventweddings.com
www.bridegroommag.com
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Landmark locations for your wedding celebration
QUINTESSENTIAL
PeterVanderwarker
BOSTON The Bostonian Society/Old State House Museum
The EMC Club at Fenway Park
by Cynthia Allegrezza
If you’re planning a wedding reception that is classic New England, look no further than our fair city to the east: Boston. Fenway Park, the Top of the Hub, the Old North Church… these are just some of the most unique and historical landmarks in Beantown—and each offers something spectacular for a nuptial event. Read on for descriptions of these and other well-known attractions to find out how you can have a memorable setting for an unforgettable wedding day. Fenway Park For devoted Red Sox fans planning a wedding, Fenway Park as a reception location is a field of dreams come true. If you can imagine hearing “Here Comes the Bride” played on the stadium organ, dressing your ring bearer in a baseball uniform (Red Sox, of course!) and having your guests sign a bat instead of a book, then the home of the Green Monster is just the place for your grand-slam celebration. 68 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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Apparently staging a wedding here is not just a hit with sports-obsessed grooms; reportedly it’s the bride who is often first on base with a Fenway wedding. Several wedding packages are offered ranging from just a ceremony on the right-field roof deck overlooking the ballpark (great for photos), to the highly inclusive Red Sox Hall of Fame package involving the ceremony, a reception with a five-star menu in the posh EMC Club or the causal Pavilion Club, and a Red Sox Hall of Fame legend announcing you and your wedding party. The EMC Club, which can seat 160 people, showcases sweeping views of the field from above home plate. The Pavilion Club, also located behind home plate, provides seating for 250 guests. Both venues offer stunning views of the Boston skyline and there is also a dressing room available for the bridal party. Pricing of the packages ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. Interested couples do have to work around the team’s schedule, which is posted in November. Guest parking is provided by valet services and space in the Brookline Avenue parking lot can also be contracted for an evening event on a non-game day.
View from Top of the Hub Restaurant and Skywalk Observatory
Top of the Hub Restaurant/ Skywalk Observatory Seven hundred feet above the city on the 50th floor of the Prudential Center are two stunMuseum ning high-in-the-sky wedding venues: Top of of Science the Hub Restaurant and Skywalk Observatory. Boasting impressive views of the city skyline and beyond (on a clear day, you can see up to 100 miles away), this locale will literally take your guests’ breath away. As it should, with bird’s eye views of the HancockTower, Fenway Park, Boston Common and Public Garden, the Esplanade and Hatch Shell, the Charles River, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, MIT, Harvard University and countless other iconic Boston sights. Top of the Hub is the ultimate romantic dining experience and is ideal for intimate gatherings of 15 to 60 guests. The striking Skywalk Observatory with its 360-degree panoramic views can host up to 600 guests for a sit-down events or 1,000 for a cocktail party. Its simple yet elegant décor can be transformed into any look for your reception and is only enhanced by the captivating scenery outside. This location is also within walking distance of Back Bay and Copley Square, surrounded by the city’s largest hotels making it a well-situated and most memorable reception venue. Rental fees for the entire Skywalk Observatory (a five-hour maximum) are $6,000 or $2,000 for the northwest or southwest wing (150-guest maximum for dinner).The Skywalk wedding dinner package ranges in price from $149 to $179 per person—excluding taxes and gratuity.Top of the Hub’s private dining room rental fee, depend-
Ericson Photography, www.ericsonphoto.com
ing on the day of the week, ranges from $300 to $500 for a threehour maximum. Dining packages are available; a four-course dinner, exclusive of beverages, runs about $79 per person.
Museum of Science Offering an incomparable riverfront location and the vitality of a contemporary science center, the Museum of Science presents a complete range of unique wedding reception options. Choose from an array of unique indoor venues—the Blue Wing and Skyline Room are most popular—or opt for the open-air Washburn Pavilion, which is in close proximity to the Charles River. The Blue Wing encloses three levels of galleries that wrap around a towering central hall. A 45-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex lurks in one corner, optical illusions adorn a wall and an Apollo module floats overhead. A revolving array of exhibit components creates an unusual and dynamic atmosphere for your guests, while soaring ceilings and expansive spaces provide a touch of grandeur. There is seating for 300 throughout the entire terrace level. Perched on the Museum’s topmost floor just beneath the 230-foot www.bridegroommag.com
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spire, the Skyline Room offers panoramic views of the Charles River, Back Bay, Boston and Cambridge through two walls of floor-to-ceiling windows. By day, natural light floods the space; by night, the sparkling mosaic of city lights provides a dramatic backdrop for an evening reception. Sunsets, as you might expect, are spectacular sights here.This room can accommodate 100 seated guests if dancing is on the docket. The Washburn Pavilion is the only function facility located directly along the Charles River. Just steps from the water, it offers refreshing breezes, cooling shade trees and wonderful views of the Longfellow Bridge. Guests—up to 225 with a dance floor—can sip cocktails al fresco, dine under a protective tent or stand at the water’s edge and wave to a passing Duck Tour boat. A personal museum wedding coordinator consults with you on every detail from determining the ideal venue to selecting the menu from Wolfgang Puck Catering.There is also on-site parking, a plus for an in-city reception venue. Rental fees for a five-hour reception range from $2,600 to $6,000, depending on the setting. Munroe Wedding Photography, www.justinmunroe.com
New England Aquarium A wedding reception at the New England Aquarium, in the heart of Boston’s waterfront, is certainly a distinctive departure from tradition. Can you picture your guests surrounded by exotic and unusual aquatic animals while celebrating your marriage? Various venues in the aquarium will have your guests partying among sharks, giant sea turtles and other extraordinary marine life— even penguins!The main exhibit hall allows your event to occupy three floors surrounding a 300,000 gallon ocean tank brimming with tropical fish and exotic sea creatures. Consider prearranging entertainment for the young children on your guest list with a supervised half-hour dive presentation during the adult-oriented cocktail hour. The multilevel exhibit hall accommodates 250 for a seated dinner with a dance floor.The rental fee for a four-hour reception is $3,800. For a warm weather wedding, the aquarium’s Harbor Terrace is an ideal outdoor setting. From May through September, this popular terrace and tent facility, with its vaulted ceilings and archways framing the harbor, can be rented for receptions ($3,000 for four hours) and holds 225 guests at a seated dinner with a dance floor. Couples often opt to have a cocktail hour inside the threelevel exhibit hall and then move to the Harbor Terrace for their reception. The Aquarium provides an on-site event coordinator as well as catering and bar service.There is a $9,000 minimum food and beverage charge. Receptions are held in the evening after the aquarium closes to the public. Self parking is available.
The Old North Church If a ceremony site rich in history and long in tradition is what you seek, it doesn’t get more notable than Boston’s Old North Church. It was here on the evening of April 18, 1775, when Robert Newman, the church sexton, held up two lanterns from the steeple as a signal from Paul Revere that the British were coming by sea and not by land, thus igniting the American Revolution. Built in 1723 in the city’s historic North End, the Old North Church is officially known as Christ Church in the City of Boston. With crisp white box pews and gleaming brass chandeliers, the church maintains itself as a “house of
Museum of Science
Margaret Singer, www.margaretsinger.com
(left and below) New England Aquarium
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Photos: Mark DaPonte/Old North Foundation
The Old North Church
prayer for all people” and will accommodate an engaged couple’s wish to wed in Boston’s oldest standing church building. Ceremonies are held at or after 6:00 p.m. by candlelight except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, NewYear’s Eve, Fourth of July, Boston Marathon weekend in April and Holy Week. A wedding date is confirmed only after a personal interview with one of the clergy, at which time a $200 non-refundable deposit is made to reserve the date and time. Other religious-oriented requirements must also be fulfilled before the ceremony; information about those and stipulations about photography and videotaping, décor, etc. are available on the church’s Web site. The fee for use of the church by non-members is $1,400 and includes the deposit, church donation, clergy fee, administration and sexton fee, and organist. Street parking near the church is limited; the closest parking facility is the Kinney North End Parking Garage, entrance at 600 Commercial Street (between Prince and Hull Streets).
will have the unique opportunity of experiencing this distinguished space in its full grandeur, whether your event is an intimate dinner or a larger reception. The Council Chamber or Representatives Hall, each accommodating 75 guests, are both available for ceremonies and/or receptions. The rental fee is $135 per hour for a wedding ceremony; $260 per hour for a dining or cocktail reception in either room; and $310 per hour for the entire building (150 guest maximum). A list of caterers approved for events at the Old State House is available. Guests are welcome to tour the museum’s galleries and exhibits during the event. Some logistics of note: Access to the upstairs chamber and hall is by a circular staircase only. There aren’t any elevators and the building currently is not wheelchair accessible. Discounted parking is available at the Pi Alley Garage on Washington Street on weekends and after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. B&G
Cynthia Allegrezza is a freelance writer based inWorcester, MA, and is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine.
The Old State House Once the seat of colonial government, the Old State House now serves as Boston’s History Museum—and rightly so. Just outside its doors the infamous Boston Massacre took place, and from its balcony the Declaration of Independence was first read to the citizens of Boston. Built in 1713, this historical site—the oldest public building in the city—is open year-round, seven days a week, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Many explore the Old State House each day, but you and your guests The Old State House Courtesy of The Bostonian Society/Old State House Museum
Where to find them Fenway Park Yawkey Way (617) 226-6791 events@redsox.com http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/bos/ ballpark/events_weddings.jsp Museum of Science (617) 589-0125 ecs@mos.org www.mos.org/visitor_info/facility_ rental/weddings
New England Aquarium Central Wharf 617- 973-5205 www.neaq.org/visit/functions.html
The Old North Church 193 Salem Street (617) 523-6676 www.oldnorth.com
The Old State House 206 Washington Street (617)720-1713, ext. 27 oldstatehouse@bostonhistory.org www.bostonhistory.org
Top of the Hub Restaurant/ Skywalk Observatory Prudential Center (617) 859-3156 rtominsky@selectrestaurants.com www.topofthehub.net
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Tiers to you! What could make you feel more like a princess bride than layers upon layers of luscious fabric? In silk or satin, chiffon or taffeta, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll glide down the aisle and throughout your reception in any of these fabulous creations.
Rina diMontella Bridal Ivory silk taffeta gown featuring a strapless beaded lace bodice and asymmetrically ruched midriff also has a two-tiered, asymmetrical bubble skirt with beaded lace underskirt that extends to a chapel-length train. Available in sizes two through 20 in natural and ivory. www.rinadimontella.com
Melissa Sweet Taffeta and tulle make up the flirty layers of this tiered empire mini-dress. Beaded detail appears on the bodice and waistband. Available in ivory and white. www.melissasweet.com
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Alvina Valenta This crème silk and duchess satin softly fluted gown features a scooped strapless neckline and an elongated bodice that is beaded and embroidered. Layers of silk duchess satin ruffles comprise the skirt. Available in white, eggshell, oyster, vanilla, ivory, crème, champagne, rum pink and dove. www.alvinavalenta.com
Jim Hjelm A modified A-line gown of silk-faced satin organza has a strapless empire bodice featuring pleated organza and crystal embroidery. The three-tiered skirt is accented with crystal organza trim and features a sweep train. Available in ivory or white. www.jimhjelm.com
Sophia Tolli Couture styling of the strapless, A-line satin Carmella gown features a spectacular Swarovski crystal beaded bodice with flattering crisscross draping, pinched with multiple beaded motifs. The draped full skirt has asymmetrical layers and a chapel-length train, also with the beaded motif. Corset back; removable straps included. Available in sizes two through 20, 22W to 28W. Colors: diamond white, silver and ivory pearl. www.sophiatolli.com
Melissa Sweet This romantic A-line gown of silk satin chiffon features a flutter neckline and tiered skirt. Available in pale honey and diamond white. www.melissasweet.com
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THE
20MINUTE
WORKOUT As a soon-to-be bride, are you
Get fit for your wedding in almost no time by Kelly James-Enger
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finding it impossible to find time to hit the gym or eat right these days? Sure, you want to look gorgeous on your big day but it’s all too likely that your workouts have fallen by the wayside. If so, we’ve got good news: If you’ve got 20 minutes, you’ve got enough time to perform a challenging routine that will help you tone up, reduce stress and incinerate a few calories as well. The key to getting the most from your limited time is intensity. In other words, a casual stroll won’t cut it, says Gin Miller, renowned fitness expert credited with being the creative force behind organized step training and owner of Gin Miller Fitness. “You’ve got to get after it.You’ve got to warm up quickly—within five minutes—and get right into the workout,” says Miller.“Then, you’ve got to work as hard as you can without working past your fitness level.” In other words, maximize your results by maxing out, effort-wise. www.bridegroommag.com
In a perfect world, your workout would include cardio, strength and stretching work with plenty of time to warm up and cool down. When time is limited, though, choose a strength-building workout over a cardio one. “It’s probably better to do a mix, but if you can only do one, opt for strength,” says Miller. “It does a lot for you in the post-exercise state. You’re burning more calories for longer afterward because you’re building lean muscle tissue.” And even a simple strength workout, if it’s challenging enough and done two or three times a week, can help you maintain and even improve your fitness level. This workout, designed by Gin Miller, includes seven sets of upper and lower body moves. Beginners should do each move separately; exercisers who already strength train regularly and want an additional challenge can integrate the moves, or perform them to-
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gether. Start with one set and work up to two. As with any workout, make sure you perform all movements in a slow, controlled manner. If your form starts to suffer, use a lighter weight.
Squats with overhead press Overhead press: Stand with feet shoulder distance apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height. Press up and lift dumbbells over your head and lower. Do eight to 10 reps. Squats: Stand with feet shoulder distance apart, dumbbells at your sides, chest up and shoulders back. Bend your knees, keeping your abs tucked in and your back straight, and squat toward the ground until your thighs are nearly parallel to the ground. Return to your original position. Do eight to 10 reps. Advanced: Combine the two moves and do eight to 10 reps.
Hip hinge with rear flys Hip hinge: Keeping your neck and spine aligned, abdominals contracted and holding dumbbells at your sides, hinge forward slowly at the hips, letting your hands go near the floor. Return to the original position by using the muscles of your hamstrings and buttocks to pull you back up. (This is essentially a bent-over dead lift.) Do four to eight reps. Bending rear flys: Hinge forward, keeping your spine stable and your abs tucked in with dumbbells at your sides. As you hinge forward, lift the dumbbells up and out to the sides, hold briefly at the top and then slowly lower them down. Do six to eight reps. Advanced: Combine the two movesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;hinge forward, perform two bending rear flys, then return to original position and repeat. Do four to eight reps.
Push-ups with hip extension Push-ups: Lie face down with hands at shoulder width, weight on your knees for an easier push-up or weight on your toes for a more challenging one. Press up, keeping your spine straight and abs tucked in, then lower yourself to a few inches off the ground and repeat. Do eight to 10 reps. Hip extensions: Hold your body in full pushup position, with your weight on your hands and toes. Keeping your abs engaged to maintain spine alignment, lift one leg off the 76 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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ground toward the ceiling and hold briefly before returning it to the ground. Repeat with the other leg. Do six reps on each leg. Advanced: Combine the two moves, lifting alternating legs as you lower your body into a full push-up. (Note: this is a very challenging moveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;only for the fittest of you!)
Lunges with lateral raises Lateral raises: Stand with feet shoulder-distance apart, arms at your sides and dumbbells in your hands. Lift your arms straight out to the side to shoulder height, hold briefly at the top and then lower them. (If this is too difficult, bend arms at the elbows as you perform the move.) Do eight to 12 reps. Lunges: Stand with feet shoulder-distance apart. Step forward with your right leg and lower your left knee slowly toward the floor, keeping the knee of your right leg over your right heel. Keep your chest up, shoulders back, pause briefly with your left knee a few inches from the ground, and use the muscles in the back of your right leg to slowly push back up. Repeat. Do eight to 12 reps. Advanced: Combine the two moves and do
eight to 12 reps.
chest level. Bring your knees up toward your chest and keep them there. Keeping your elbow soft, slowly lower your arms out to your sides then squeeze your chest muscles and return your arms to their original position. Do eight to 10 reps. Toe taps: Lie face up on a platform or weight bench. Bring your knees up toward your chest, then contract your abs, keeping your core stable, and lower one leg toward the floor. (The more you bend your leg the easier the move becomes, but your knee should be slightly soft and your toe should be pointed.The movement occurs at the hip, not at the knee, which should remain in the same position throughout.) Touch your toe lightly to the ground, return to the original position and repeat on the other side. Do six to eight reps. (To make it more challenging, extend your legs fully as you perform the moveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; bending your knees makes it easier.) Advanced: Combine the moves. As you perform each fly, lower one of your legs to the floor. (As you open your arms to begin the fly, lower your leg; as you pull your arms back toward your chest, bring your leg back up as
Lunges with bicep curls Biceps curls: Stand with feet shoulder-distance apart, arms at your sides and dumbbells in your hands. Bend your arms and slowly curl weights three-fourths of the way to your shoulders, then lower back to the original position. Do eight to 12 reps. Lunges: Stand with feet shoulder-distance apart. Step forward with your left leg (the opposite of what you did with the lunges with lateral raises), and lower your right knee slowly toward the floor, keeping the knee of your left leg over your left heel. Keep your chest up, shoulders back, pause briefly with your right knee a few inches from the ground, and use the muscles in the back of your right leg to slowly push back up. Repeat. Do eight to 12 reps. Advanced: Combine the two moves and do eight to 12 reps.
Toe taps with chest flys Chest flys: Lie face up on a platform or weight bench holding dumbbells with your hands at
Leicester Country Club Where lifelong vows are taken and elegant weddings are given. Thomas Neill
Prime 2008/09 dates available. Ask about Winter and Summer Romance Wedding Packages.
C.J. Yates Photography
Leicester Country Club G O L F C O U R S E & B A N Q U E T FA C I L I T Y
1430 Main Street, P.O. Box 138, Leicester, MA 01524 tel 508.281.4493 fax 508.892.1331
leicestercc.com Thomas Neill
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well.) Do eight to 12 reps; bend your knees if you start to feel fatigue in your lower back.
Hip lifts with tricep extensions
t
Hip lifts: Lie face up on a platform with feet on the floor, or on a weight bench with your knees bent and feet on the bench. Contract your abs and press your hips toward the ceiling, tightening your glutes, then lower your hips. Do eight to 10 reps. Triceps extensions: Lie face up on a platform with feet on the floor, or on a weight bench with your feet on the bench. Holding dumbbells in your hands and arms extended up from your shoulders, bend your elbows and slowly lower dumbbells toward either side of your head, keeping your upper arms stationary. Return to original position. Do eight to 10 reps. Advanced: Combine moves and do eight to 10 reps.
he best-looking bridal parties get their stunning and coordinated looks from the talented and experienced staff at D’Iorio’s Salon.
B&G
Kelly James-Enger is the co-author of Small Changes, Big Results: A 12-Week Action Plan to a Better Life (©2005,Three Rivers Press).
OFFERING ✤ Hair styling and make-up services
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Want a fast-paced cardio workout instead? Use this express workout from Gin Miller for maximum results.
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Using any mode of cardio training (such as walking, running, bicycling, or stair climbing), gradually increase the intensity for five to seven minutes to warm up. Then do intervals at nearmax effort, using a 1:3 ratio of work to recovery for five or more cycles, depending on how much time you have. For example, walk as fast as you can for 30 seconds and recover at a lower intensity for 90 seconds and then repeat. Perform as many cycles as you can safely. If you’re fairly fit, you can increase the work time by using longer intervals and/or reducing the work/ recovery ratio to 1:2 (exercise hard for a minute, recover for two minutes). If you become fatigued, perform the remainder of your cardio time at a steady rate and cool down to finish the workout.
SHERATON COLONIAL HOTEL and GOLF CLUB Catering to your every wish
A glorious sunset frames the Sheraton Colonial Hotel & Golf Club.
Dan Doke Photography
Colonial Ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests for your wedding celebration. Stealing a moment in beautifully landscaped gardens.
The Perfect Image
Dan Doke Photography
Beautifully landscaped outdoor ceremony site.
From intimate ceremonies to large celebrations, the Sheraton Colonial Hotel & Golf Club is the perfect venue to create an everlasting memory of your Wedding Day. Beginning with our personalized Wedding Specialist to the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seasoned and professional staff, you will find every detail carefully addressed. The Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering Team will offer impeccable service. Our Colonial Ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests for your wedding celebration. This, our largest space, is located in the historic Colonial Center. It is one of the most sought after social settings on the North Shore of Boston.
Gaby McCarthy
Our Grand Ballroom is located directly in the Hotel Building. This more intimate yet elegant space is able to accommodate up to 200 guests for your grand celebration. One Audubon Road, Wakefield, MA 01880 Phone: (781) 245-9300 Fax: (781) 245-0842 www.sheraton.com/colonial
www.bridegroommag.com
The Colonial Golf Club is available to all wedding guests.
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www.Lpmfloral.com
www.tlmstudios.com
Where Silk Flowers Come Alive Franklin, MA • 508-335-1454
Periwinkles
RickEnglishPhotograher.com
Garden Court Banquet Center Win ©
On-site Weddings Garden Gazebo Picturesque Landscaped Gardens Ample Parking Seating from 75 to 260
Where Elegance is Affordable 508.832.9705
www.Periwinkles-Giorgios.com
892 Southbridge Street, Rte. 20, On the Auburn /Oxford Line
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C. J. Yates Photography
508-752-0431 315 Grafton St. 292 West Boylston St. Worcester, MA Hours: M-F 9-6, Sat 9-4
www.mydress4less.com www.elegancebycarbonneau.com www.dyeabledeals.com
B&G Planning 101
Wedding timetable B&G’s guide for what to do and when This guide was set using a timeframe of 12 to 18 months prior to the wedding date. Given that your event may be in less (or more) time, this information can still be used as a handy checklist for what to do first (and second, and third…). At engagement • Discuss what size/type of wedding you want keeping style (formal or casual) and number of potential guests in mind. • Determine the budget, and who will be paying for what. • Book your reception location, making sure it coordinates with your ceremony (if it is being held elsewhere).
Once the date is set 9 – 12 months • Research and interview potential vendors, such as photographers, bands/DJs, caterers (if necessary), bakeries, florists, videographers, transportation etc. Many
• •
• •
book events a year or more in advance, so start this process quickly. Decide on any theme/decorative elements for your reception. Begin shopping for wedding dress and accessories (veil, headpiece, shoes, jewelry, undergarments, etc.). Renew your passports (if necessary) if your honeymoon trip will outside of the U.S. Select wedding party.
6 – 9 months • Go over ceremony details/ideas with officiant. • Order wedding dress and schedule fitting/delivery dates.
In Boxborough lies a unique location for your extraordinary wedding. You will be captivated by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls in our Atrium Courtyard, or you can choose our beautiful Grand Ballroom with the adjacent Terrace Bar. Specializing in custom menus and flexible wedding packages, the newly renovated Holiday Inn Boxborough will meet your every need. Contact our Wedding Specialist, Stephen Guay 978-889-1715 | sguay@hiboxborough.com www.boxboroughweddings.com
242 Adams Place Boxborough, MA 01719 978-263-8701
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• Select and order bridesmaids’, mothers’ and flower girl dresses. • Have all of your major vendors reserved. • Block off hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. • Decide on any extras for ceremony and reception (i.e., programs, favors, menus, etc.). • Finalize guest list and obtain updated addresses. • Send save-the-date cards. • Post wedding details on your wedding Web site.
4 – 6 months • Select and order groom and ushers’ attire. • Select and order invitations. • Hire calligrapher or schedule a printer to address invitations. • Plan honeymoon. • Experiment with hair and make-up styles. • Consider extras: teeth cleanings/bleaching, regular facials, etc. • Shop for and order wedding rings. Have them engraved.
2 – 4 months
2 – 6 weeks
• Order and/or begin to make favors and other wedding-day extras. • Check marriage license requirements (see page 86). • Plan activities for out-of-town guests. • Purchase gifts for attendants. • Coordinate ceremony and reception music with entertainment specialists. • Finalize guest list. • Shop for lingerie and honeymoon clothes. • Arrange for rehearsal dinner.
• Confirm ceremony details with officiant. • Discuss and confirm special requests with photographer. • Confirm final arrangements with florist, bakery, limo service, etc. • Give wedding-day itinerary to the wedding party and to any necessary vendors. • Start the seating chart. • Confirm honeymoon arrangements. • Arrange for a hold on your mail (while you’re away).
6 – 8 weeks
One week
• Address and mail invitations. • Start/maintain records of RSVPs and gifts received. • Write and send thank-you notes for gifts received before the wedding. • Schedule final dress fittings and pick-up times. • Get marriage license. • Finalize details of rehearsal dinner. • Purchase all bridal accessories. Break in shoes.
• Pick up wedding attire. Last check for fit. • Do a final guest count and submit to reception facility/caterer. • Pick up tickets for honeymoon. • Confirm final details with vendors, such as time and place of delivery/arrival. • Check weather report.
Wedding day Have fun!
B&G
Restaurant, Cracker Barrel Pub & Country Store
Let forever begin here . . . The 1761 Old Mill offers a unique serene atmosphere that is unsurpassed by most. Get married on our grounds listening to our flowing falls and then proceed with a delightful dinner in our classic New England surroundings. The Old Mill makes a perfect setting for your extraordinary day. The Old Mill has several dining rooms available for your reception and incredible photo options for your lasting memories. • Wedding Ceremonies • • Receptions from 10 to 150 • • Bridal Showers • • Intimate Rehearsal Dinners • Visit our website at
(508) 757-0731
w w w.1761O ldM i ll. c om
Available for travel
69 State Road East • Rte. 2A Westminster, Massachusetts 01473
www.tammytatro.com
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B&G Planning 101
Would you like to keep your digital files?
Changing your name? TO
MAKE OFFICIAL, LEGAL CHANGES
to your name after marriage you’ll need a certified copy of your marriage license. To obtain one or more, contact the clerk’s office where the license was filed for the required procedures. (You’ll either have to make the request in person or submit a written one. A processing fee generally applies.) The following are the likely places you’ll want/need to make your name change, and instructions on what you’ll need to do.
Our Emerald Series includes 1-8x10 color , 2-5x7s color 1-5x7 black and white, 800 finished prints Choose 200 images to print. Digital files and full copyrights for just $1,795.
Social Security Number
The The Wedding Wedding Photographers Photographers
50 Elm Street, Worcester, MA 180 Boulder Drive, Fitchburg, MA 221 Chandler Street, Worcester 508-757-4850 www.weddingphotographersne.com www.weddingphotographersne.com 508-757-4850
From First Dates…
To obtain a new card with your new name, you must complete and submit form SS-5, which can be found online (www.ssa.gov) or at your local Social Security Office. Call (800) 772-1213 for more information or to locate an office near you. There is no fee for this service.You will also need to show proof of your U.S. citizenship or immigration status and your identity.
Driver’s License
…To “Happily Ever After”
Take your new social security card to a full service RMV branch office along with a completed License and ID Update Form (found online at www.mass.gov/rmv/forms) and $20.00.
Passport
The place to meet, the place to eat! www.picpub.com Sturbridge
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Function Room available at our Waltham location 380 Winter St. 781-890-7800
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Traveling with your passport on your honeymoon? If so, the name on your tickets must match the one on your passport. Since you most likely bought the tickets before your wedding, it’s best to wait until after your return to make the change on your passport. To make the name change, you must complete the proper amendment form and submit it, along with a certified copy of your marriage license, your previous passport and two photos, to the National Passport Processing, P.O. Box 13290, Philadelphia, PA 19101-3290. Forms are available online
Custom Favors Chocolate Rose Pops Chocolate Bells
Assorted Chocolates & Cordials Mint Lentils Jordan Almonds
Make this your
Sweetest Day of the year
(www.travel.state.gov) or by calling the public passport agency near you (generally either a post office or courthouse). There is no fee for this service unless you need expedited service ($60.00 per application, plus delivery costs).
Don’t forget these • Employer (for payroll purposes) • Post office • Credit card companies or any other bills • Voter registration • Any legal documents like mortgages, leases, insurance policies, etc.
Visit Colonial Candies at: 47 Sugar Road / Bolton, MA 01740 / Exit 27 off Rt. 495 Tel 978.779.6586 / www.colonialcandies.com
How do I love thee? Oh, around
ten thousand different ways. Mix & Match Colors, Shapes and Sizes. An endless collection of papers, pockets, cards and envelopes.
Same-sex marriages and name changes A party in a same-sex marriage in MA can legally change his/her surname with the Social Security Administration and on his/her driver’s license. However, according to the Web site for GLAD, the Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders organization (www. glad.org), “the Passport Agency, citing the federal 1996 Defense of Marriage Act, is refusing to honor the name change on the marriage license and is requiring couples to go through Probate Court to have their names changed.” Information on how to petition for a name change can be found at: www.lawlib.state.ma.us/name.html. B&G
Fall in love with the possibilities www.cclowellinvite.com
Custom-designed invitations to fit YOUR style! 258 Park Avenue – Worcester – 508.757.7713 – www.cclowellinvite.com
www.bridegroommag.com
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B&G Planning 101
License to wed
SURE YOU NEED A HALL, A PHOTOGRAPHER
- Personal Coordinator - Gazebo Ceremony Area - Picturesque Gardens - Antique Cars & Buggy - Seating up to 180 - Handicap Accessible - Centrally located 20 miles from Providence & Worcester
Relax and enjoy your wedding day in our historic clubhouse overlooking the beautiful grounds that surround you. Your personal Wedding Coordinator will take care of all the details while you create memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime…
801 Chockalog Road, Uxbridge, MA (508) 278-6110 www.blissfulmeadows.com
Celebrate Your Wedding with the Distinctive Sound of the Bagpipes! Demo CD 4 Wedding Packages Reasonable Prices Professionally Attired Variety of Authentic Kilts Scottish & Irish Music Willing to Travel Over 30 Years Experience
Sound ’O the Pipes • George Kinney (978) 386-7797 www.soundothepipes.com 86 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
www.bridegroommag.com
and some fancy duds… but don’t forget the most important must-have item for your wedding—your marriage license! Here’s what you need to know to get the legalities in order for your big day. If you’re getting married in MA, both parties must apply for the license together and in person—whether or not you are a resident. Applications are made in any city or town in MA. Where you apply is where the marriage certificate will be filed. There is a waiting period of three days.This includes Sundays and holidays, but not the day upon which the application is submitted. The license is valid for 60 days from the date you file and can be used in any city or town in MA. There is a state fee of $4.00 for the license, but each town is allowed to set their own fee in addition to that. Check with your town clerk’s office for cost information. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Some towns may require proof, such as a birth certificate. Please note: The requirements and information listed here are subject to change and may differ for same-sex couples. For the most up-to-date information, contact your clerk’s office directly. Information specific to samesex weddings in MA can be found online at: www.glad.org/marriage/howtogetmarried.html www.lawlib.state.ma.us/gaymarriage.html If you’re marrying out of state (or having a destination wedding), be sure to check out the requirements for that area. Because they will differ per location, it’s best to take care of this early in your planning. B&G
O NE
LOOK
&
YOU ’ LL SEE THE DIFFERENCE .
Here is information on clerk’s offices in some larger towns in Central Massachusetts. (For those with URLs, look for direct links to the clerk’s office, or a department listing). To find other offices, check your local phone book for listings.
Auburn 104 Central St. (508) 832-7701 clerk@town.auburn.ma.us www.auburnguide.com Brookfield 6 Central St. (508) 867-2930 ext. 12 llincoln@brookfieldma.us www.brookfieldma.us Fitchburg 718 Main St. (978) 345-9592 www.ci.fitchburg.ma.us/ cityclerk.htm Framingham 150 Concord St., Room 105 (508) 532-5520 townclerk@framinghamma. gov www.framinghamma.gov Holden 1196 Main St. (508) 829-0265 www.townofholden.net Hopkinton 18 Main St. (508) 497-9710 www.hopkinton.org Leominster 25 West. St., Room 5 (978) 534-7536 www.leominster-ma.gov
P
LEASANT
Lowell 375 Merrimack St., 1st Floor, Room 31 (978) 970-4161 www.lowellma.gov/depts/ clerk
V
ALLEY
C OUNTRY C LUB
Marlborough 140 Main St. (508) 460-3775 cityclerk@marlboroughma.gov www.marlborough-ma.gov
PerfectWeddingPhoto.com
Andover 36 Bartlet St. (978) 623-8255 townclerk@andoverma.gov andoverma.gov/clerk
Smaller intimate receptions in our Greenside Ballroom or larger more elaborate receptions in our Grandview Ballroom 95 Armsby Road, Sutton, MA (508) 865-4441 www.pleasantvalleycc.com
Millbury 127 Elm St. (508) 865-9110 www.millbury-ma.org Natick 13 East Central St. (508) 647-6430 jkuhn@natickma.org www.natickma.org Northampton 210 Main St., Room 4 (413) 587-1224 cclerk@northamptonma.gov www.northamptonma.gov/ cityclerk Springfield 36 Court St., Room 123 (413) 787-6094 www.springfieldcityhall. com Sturbridge 308 Main St. (508) 347-2510 www.town.sturbridge.ma.us Worcester 455 Main St., Room 206 (508) 799-1121 clerk@ci.worcester.ma.us www.ci.worcester.ma.us
The
DRESS www.bridegroommag.com
Steve Erikson
Town/ City Clerks
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B&G Planning 101 A v a i l a b l e f o r T r a v e l
Photojournalistic and Portrait Styles Combined
Preparing to plan Need some help getting started? Here are a few tips to point you in the right direction. Begin with a budget How much money is available to spend? Who pays for what? Who makes the major spending decisions? When assessing these issues, make sure everyone involved is as clear, open, honest and—most importantly—as realistic as possible. The more that’s established and made clear now will make for easier planning and decision making later on.
Size things up
Color, Black & White and Sepia
508-755-9213 www.dorosphotography.com
Marlborough Country Club Rick English Photographer.com
200 Concord Road Marlborough, MA 01752 508-485-1660 ext. 14 Ann Marie Busby, GM Marlborocc@aol.com www.marlboroughcountryclub.com
Bridal Showers • Elegant Wedding Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners 88 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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The number of expected guests and the desired type of reception will set the tone for all other planning decisions, so it’s important to get a handle on this early.The preliminary guest list should consist of the bride’s family and parents’ friends; the groom’s family and parents’ friends; and the couple’s friends. Since many locations may have requirements for the minimum and/or maximum number of guests, this information is invaluable when conducting your site search. Determine the specifications that will set the style of your party. Large or small? Formal or informal? Evening or daytime? Outside or inside? Winter, spring, summer or fall? Again, this information is a must-have for finding the ideal location (at the ideal time and price).
Location, location, location This mantra is as meaningful for weddings as it is for real estate.Whether your site is a fabulous hall or hotel, a beautiful park or your own backyard, options abound. It all depends upon the size of your reception and budget. Use these sources to find your ideal site: local bridal magazines (like B&G), the phone book, the Internet and references from family/ friends.
The big “O” – Organization, that is The best way to keep things running smoothly and stress levels manageable is to have some type of organizational system to sort out your planning information. Whether it’s dedicated file folders, a binder or even just a single box, make this the place to keep all wedding-related data. But remember, this will only work if you are committed to it. (Having a timetable may also help. We’ve provided one for you on p. 82.)
Help Yes, it is your wedding but that doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Family members and close friends will most likely volunteer their services for any weddingplanning task.As a savvy project manager you will, of course, take them up on it.You may even ask them before they ask you! Keep in mind that delegating doesn’t mean compromising your vision; it means achieving it with less stress.
The deciding factor So what really determines the size and scope of your wedding? For some, cash is king when it comes to deciding on the size and location. For others, a particular artistic or thematic vision may determine the place and cost. Whatever the driving force, you might find that you’re addressing the first three tasks listed here simultaneously. Don’t panic: There’s no specific method for making these decisions. Your best bet is to keep a list of what’s most/least important to you. By prioritizing (and, in some cases, re-prioritizing) your wants and needs, you’ll be more equipped to B&G make the “tough” choices.
The
FLOWERS www.bridegroommag.com
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The Crown Jewel of Banquet Facilities
B&G Planning 101
Contract considerations
Prime Dat es Available
Your next event can be a lifetime memory
Jean Pinto Photography
WHEN
✧ Weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, anniversaries, graduations or any special occasion ✧ We can seat from 25 to 400 people in our banquet rooms, 7 days a week
Dining, Cocktails and Functions… All at One Place
42 West Boylston St., (Rte. 12) • West Boylston, MA Conveniently located off exit 4, 190 2006
508-835-4722 • www.ourmanor.com Restaurant Open: Sun., Tues., Wed. and Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Closed Mondays
Getting away is as easy as One
Two
Three
www.thomaseobrien.com 90 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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H I R I N G V E N D O R S F O R YOU R
wedding, be sure to have a contract for each one. It will protect you and your money, and will also help keep your many details organized. Contracts should include the basics: your name, wedding date, location of the event, name of the vendor, etc. Spelling counts, so be sure everything is correct. All of the vendor’s services should be listed in this agreement, including their standard offerings as well as anything extra you may want (such as votive candles surrounding your centerpieces or that your extra wedding cake will be boxed as favors to take home). Be very detailed. Specify the vendor’s expected arrival time and where they should go (i.e., the limo should pick you up first then your bridesmaids, and that the photographer should meet you at the reception site). If they will be mingling with your guests, indicate what type of attire is acceptable and not acceptable. Itemize all costs: everything from basic rates to additional fees for any extra services and/or overtime. Indicate what your method of payment will be, the amounts and when those payments will be made. It’s also a good idea to have the contract list the amount of any deposits made at signing. Specify what happens should you need to cancel the wedding. How much notice do your vendors require? How much money, if any, will you be expected to pay anyway?Will your deposit be refunded if you give them enough notice to fill the date? Indicate any penalties the vendors will face if they arrive late to your wedding. Also specify a cancellation policy for each of your vendors, such as they must give more than 30 days notice of cancellation and that they must help you find a replacement. Read each contract thoroughly before you sign it. If this means taking it home, then do so. Don’t let any vendor rush you into signing.
Update your contract with any changes, updates, additions and/or deletions made by either you or the vendor. This can be as simple as writing it on the original agreement and having both parties initial it or, if it’s clearer, write up an amended contract and sign it. Be wary of any vendor that doesn’t want to have a contract. It is designed to help by protecting both parties and keeping the details organized. Don’t be pressured into working without one. Consider looking for a new vendor if they refuse to use or sign one. If you have any difficulty in understanding the wording of a contract, ask to have it rewritten so that it is clear. If they refuse,
look for a new vendor. Never sign an agreement if you’re not clear on the terms.Always ask for clarification (and have it written in when necessary) and always read the fine print thoroughly.
Other helpful tips Keep receipts for each transaction with all vendors. File them with your copy of the contract for easy reference. Use your credit card whenever possible. Most offer buyer protection services at no extra charge. Consider giving yourself extra protection by taking out wedding (event) insurance. Basic policies cover acts of god, vendor-related issues (such as no-shows, bad equipment, damaged goods, etc.) and the like. For more info, check out these web sites: www.wedsafe.com B&G and www.rvnuccio.com (a Fireman’s Fund
The
CAKE www.bridegroommag.com
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108 Grove St., 3rd. floor Northworks Building Worcester 508-753-4511
B&G Planning 101
Invitations COMPILING
Specializing in
bridal showers,
YOU R G U E S T L I S T A N D
sending out invitations is a simple thing, right? Yes, but there is more involved than you may realize. Get it done quickly and easily by following these tips.
Basic rules of etiquette
249 Main Street Rutland 508-886-4600
rehearsal dinners and elegant receptions. Rick English Photographer.com
Private room available
Rt. 20 & Rt. 148 Sturbridge 508-347-0100
Three locations. Accommodating from 15 to 70 guests. www.rovezzis.com Gift certificates available.
“We love what we do and you will too.” Media Photo Affordable Wedding Packages 63 Auburn St., Auburn, MA 01501 508-832-4716 Mediafoto@aol.com
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• The outer envelopes, which have a glued flap, should contain the guests’ full names and complete mailing addresses. Abbreviations should not be used, except for salutations such as Mr., Mrs., Jr., etc. Write out words like Street, Avenue, North and South. Also, write out all numbered streets (Seventeenth instead of 17th) and city and state names in full. • The inner envelope, which contains the invitation, response and direction cards, etc., is not glued and should list full names (complete with salutations) but not addresses. Only use names for those you are inviting. If you are inviting a couple and their children, include the children’s names by writing them after the parents in order by age (oldest to youngest). If you are not inviting the children, do not include their names on the inner envelope. Children over 18 should be included on both envelopes. • When inviting two unmarried people living at the same address, or a married couple with two different last names, send one invitation with their names written out on separate lines in alphabetical order. • Avoid writing “and Guest” wherever possible. Dates of your family/friends will feel more welcome if their name is on the invitation, too. • The return address may be written or pre-printed on the flap of the outer envelope.
Acceptable exceptions to some rules • Is it paramount that your guests’ full names with salutations appear on both the outer and inner envelopes? If the event is formal, the invitations should be as well. But if you’re having, say, a casual afternoon affair, then using first names on the inner envelopes is considered ok.
• Must each envelope be handwritten?This rule has been “bent” quite a bit thanks to the ready availability of calligraphy machines and home printers. Calligraphy done by hand is an art form that will add extra elegance to any invitation.A friend or family member with exceptional penmanship is another way to go. But if your budget/schedule won’t allow for either, those printing options do come in handy. Be sure to check with your stationery provider to see if the envelopes you’re ordering are home-printer friendly.
508-842-8992 - Shrewsbury, MA www.danielsonflowers.com
Be organized • Before you start addressing the envelopes compile your guest list complete with full names, proper salutations (i.e., Mr., Dr., Captain, etc.), correct addresses and zip codes. • Whether you’re having the addresses printed electronically or handwritten, organize the information on a computer if possible.This will make things easy to read by anyone addressing by hand, and give you a usable electronic file if you decide to print from a computer (no need to re-key!).
Helpful tips • Order extra invitations. The cost to do so will be significantly less than if you have to have a second order printed. • Order extra envelopes. Mistakes happen, whether the addressing is being done by hand or by printer. • Bring one complete invitation—and by complete we mean everything from the invitation itself to all insertions (such as response and direction cards) in the final envelope—to the post office to calculate the proper postage. If your invitation is a non-standard size or shape, extra postage may also apply. B&G
The
TUX
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Stow Acres Country Club
B&G Planning 101
Ideal setting, enduring memories The Randall Estate at Stow Acres Country Club The site of your reception should be as memorable as your wedding. The
Topics of transportation
Randall Estate’s distinctive atmosphere and gourmet food create the perfect setting for your day. Our team of experts have planned thousands of memorable
HERE
weddings. They will guide you through the planning process and help make sure
T H I N G S TO K E E P
everything is perfect. If you are planning your wedding, The Randall Estate is a
in mind when making your weddingday travel arrangements.
must-see location. Call today to schedule a tour or reserve your date.
ARE A FEW
Need a lift? The bride and groom, their parents, bridesmaids, ushers, flower girls, ring bearers and grandparents are the usual suspects for limo-type rides. Get a head count to determine the best vehicle to do the job (and accurate estimates on price). Your out-of-town guests, however, are unfamiliar with the local terrain and just might need a ride also. Many car services offer shuttle bus options to take guests from their hotels, to the ceremony and reception, and back.
l 25 miles from Boston, inside Route 495 l Distinctive cuisine l Seating for up to 250 l Elegantly manicured grounds l We take care of the details
Where to?
More than a great game!
www.stowacres.com – 978-568-1100 ext. 107 58 Randall Road – Stow, MA 01775
Planning your wedding just got easier!
Find a quality bridal show near you by visiting
bspishows.com
94 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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How many places do you have to go? To the ceremony from your house (or hotel) and from the ceremony to the reception is the typical service. Travel to any destinations after the reception is usually a separate charge from the standard rental agreement.
Fares and fees Most limousine company’s fees are by the hour, with considerations made for the number of people to be transported and the type of vehicle rented.There may also be an additional travel fee (if the car is coming from far away), and a gratuity might be automatically applied to your bill. Be sure to get these things itemized in writing before you sign a contract. B&G
Find these
The
DRESS
The
FLOWERS
The
The
TUX
CAKE
And more at Produced by
2-for-1 pass online at: www.originalweddingexpo.com Sponsored by
READER OFFER
Free health club day pass for every reader FREE CLUB PASS for you and two friends Name
✁
Address Zip Telephone
Cell #*
E-mail address*
Looking to enjoy a little pampering before your big day? Why not bring some friends along with you? Worcester Fitness, the area’s leading adult health and fitness club, is offering a free pass (a $25 value) to you and two friends for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at one of our two award-winning facilities in Worcester. Both clubs have the same warm and comfortable atmosphere you would expect for you and your friends. Also, if you purchase a one-hour massage during your visit you’ll receive a gift certificate for a second massage for half price.
Wedding date Return coupon by Dec 31, 2008 to: Worcester Fitness Membership Coordinator 440 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 *By supplying your e-mail address and cell number, you are happy to receive products and services from Worcester Fitness. www.worcesterfitness.com Check if you don’t want offers from them ❏ or third parties ❏.
96 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
Worcester Fitness is offering a free day pass for you and two friends.
To claim your free day pass simply fill out the coupon in this ad and mail it to Worcester Fitness Membership Coordinator, 440 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 by December 31, 2008. Your guest passes will then be mailed to you. This offer is limited to one guest visit per person. To find the Worcester Fitness closest to you, please call 508-852-8209.
www.bridegroommag.com
MUSIC
IS A
P OW E R F U L
MEDIUM.
DJ 16. What format is the music (MP3, CD, tape, record)? 17. How many people will you use to cover the event? 18. Do you offer lighting effects? If so, are they included in the price? What do you charge for upgrades?
Band 19. Will you provide music while on breaks? 20. Do you perform ethnic music? (Especially important if you’re incorporating your heritages into the day.) 21. Will you have backup staff available in the event of illness?
Practical advice
Both 1. How many songs do you have in your library? 2. Will you take requests from guests during the reception? If so, how many will you take? Is there an extra charge? 3. I would like to help create the song list. How many requests can I make? 4. Do you provide music for the ceremony and/or cocktail hour? 5. How much time do you need to set up your equipment? 6. What type of attire will you wear for the reception?
• When meeting with prospective entertainment professionals, find out if they will be able to perform (audition) for you. Getting some references might also help you with your decision. • Just as you know what song is best for your first dance, so too does your DJ or band leader know what will get everyone’s toes tapping. Still, there may be some songs that you’d rather not have played. By all means, give your expert a list; just keep in mind that some may be just what your guests would want to hear. Stay flexible—if playing one or two tunes at a guest’s request keeps them dancing, then all the better! B&G
508-791-9100 www.AAtransportation.com
Providing limousine, party bus and shuttle services throughout New England.
~ Casino Trips ~ Concerts ~ Proms ~ Special Events ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Proms ~
Hearing a song now that you loved in high school can instantly bring you back to that time. The same can be said for the music played on your wedding day: If the song you’ll select for your first dance isn’t special to you already, it certainly will be for many years after. When looking for a band or DJ for your reception, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got the right group for your gig. Here are some questions to help you narrow things down. Some are generic enough that they apply to both; others are specific to one or the other. We’ve provided a range for you here.
~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Sporting Events
A few notes about your reception music
7. How many breaks will you take? How long will they be? 8. Will you require a meal? 9. Do you charge a travel fee? 10. Will I be able to meet with the DJ/band members who would perform at my wedding before I sign a contract? 11. Do you use a wireless microphone? Can you provide one for any speeches? 12. Do you do overtime? If so, is there a charge? 13. How many weddings do you perform at in a year? 14. How long have you been a DJ/musician? 15. Have you performed at events of this size before?
~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Sporting Events
Tuning up
~ Casino Trips ~ Concerts ~ Proms ~ Special Events ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Proms ~
Sporting Events ~ Concerts ~ Casino Trips
B&G Planning 101
rickenglishphotographer.com
Sporting Events ~ Concerts ~ Casino Trips
www.bridegroommag.com
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B&G Planning 101
DJ Service
Spreading the news P L AC I N G
A N E N G AG E M E N T A N D / O R
wedding announcement in your local newspaper has been a longstanding tradition for many soon-to-be and newly-weds. Now that most newspapers are also online, those announcements have also made their way onto the Internet. Many of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major newspapers have new policies regarding the publication of celebratory/life event notices and now charge a fee to run them.Various options are available for small or large announcements, with or without photos. Some include online postings with the print, and those may include things like photo galleries, links to gift registries, etc. For the major papers in and around our area, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve collected the basic information (such as range of fees) and have provided key Website addresses that have more detailed and up-to-date information. Be sure to check with the specific newspaper directly for its most current policies and procedures.
Worcester Telegram & Gazette Official music provider of
www.mixhits.com 800-649-4487
Announcements for engagements and weddings are available for purchase for both print (T&G) and online (Telegram.com) publication. Packages for both range from $40 to $250.All options include a printed announcement in one Sunday edition and an online notice for that same week. For detailed information, go to www.telegram.com/ celebrations or call (508) 793-9200.
The Boston Globe Announcements for engagements, weddings and other celebratory events are available for purchase for print (The Boston Globe) and online (Boston.com) publication. Packages for engagement and wedding announcements range from $149 to $249.All options include a printed announcement in one Sunday edition and inclusion on Boston.comâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celebrations for one year. For detailed information, 98 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
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We welcome all couples for
Tuscany Room
any wedding related occasion.
We can accommodate 25â&#x20AC;&#x201C;150 guests. Your hosts,
T he T uro Family T he inviting decor of wood and brick create an atmosphere that is warm and comfortable.
go to www.bostonglobe.com/advertiser/ mediakit/celebrations.aspx.
Photos courtesy Ericson Photography
Lowell Sun Engagement and wedding notices are run. Text-only announcements cost $30, $45 with photo. Original black and white photos are preferred for publication or a clear, high contrast, color close-up. If you would like the photo returned, write your name and address on back of photo and include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Forms can be found online at: www.lowellsun.com/wedding_form (or engagement_form).
11 Brackett Court (off Shrewsbury Street) Worcester, MA 01604
Continental Room
(508) 753-9490
Ample free parking
MetroWest Daily News Engagement and wedding announcements are run in the print publication free of charge and in color. (Some notices may be published online, but as of press time no further information was available.) Request the appropriate forms by e-mailing lnoble@cnc.com.
where art celebrates you showers | rehearsal dinners | ceremonies | receptions
The Providence Journal The Sunday Journal publishes free wedding announcements every week involving present or former residents of its circulation area. They also publish announcements of public commitment ceremonies that involve people with substantial local ties. Forms are available online at: www.projo.com/weddings. They must be printed and mailed to: Features Department, The Providence Journal, 75 Fountain St., Providence, RI 02902. Digital photos may be submitted for publication (see back of form for details). Engagement announcements are also run, but for a fee of $3.47/line (minimum of eight lines). A B&W photo can be included for an additional fee of $70.32. Announcement can posted online for an additional $20. See engagement form for details, available at: www.projo.com/celebrations. B&G
WORCESTER ART MUSEUM | 55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA www.worcesterart.org | specialevents@worcesterart.org | 508.799.4406 x3077 www.bridegroommag.com
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A Special Setting for Your Special Event
B&G Planning 101
Tux talk Finding the right fit H AV E N ’ T
TRIED ON A TUX SINCE
your prom? Don’t worry… the basic styles probably haven’t changed much, but your body’s shape may have. Here is a list of terms and tips to help you find the right style.
Body basics
The historic Asa Waters Mansion offers an elegant style and relaxed atmosphere in a stately house where guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor functions. Available for wedding ceremonies and receptions, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners
Asa Waters Mansion 123 Elm Street, Millbury, MA 01527 (508) 865-0855 www.asawaters.org
“We’ll Create a Wedding Day Image You’ll Cherish Forever.”
New! Eye Lash Extensions
Tall and thin. Your even proportions make just about any style jacket, single or double breasted, right for you. Double-breasted styles will make you appear bulkier up top, so if you’re leaning toward the thin side, keep that in mind. Tall and husky/broad.Your substantial upper body will be best suited with a trim, neat look. Try a jacket with a shawl collar, as it gives a clean line.Wearing a full vest might also help in that regard. Avoid cutaway jackets, as they’re too short in the front, and any shirts with too much detail (i.e., pleats). Short and husky/broad. As with your taller counterparts, stick with a simple, clean style such as the thin line of a shawl collar, especially on a single-breasted jacket. Opt for natural instead of padded shoulders to downplay excessive broadness. Short and thin. Single-breasted coats with two or three buttons will add length to your torso, while notched lapels will add the illusion of width at the upper chest.You might do well with a double-breasted jacket, although it could end up looking too big for your frame.
Tuxedo terminology Real Human Human Hair Hair Real Extensions Extensions
Clip in in Extensions Extensions Clip
19thth Year Anniversary Voted Worcester’s Best Hair Salon – 6 Years
Image Hair Salon
Ample Parking • Walk-in Service • 533 Park Avenue, Worcester 100 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
(508) 754-5588
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Cutaway Jacket (a.k.a. Morning Coat). Short in the front and tapers into a long, wide “tail” in back. Colors are either gray or black. Worn with matching striped trousers for formal daytime weddings. Dinner Jacket. A white or ivory jacket cut like a tuxedo jacket and worn with black, satin-striped trousers. Full Dress Tailcoat. Usually for formal evening weddings, this is a full dress coat with two long skirts or “tails” that taper in the back. Stroller (a.k.a.Walking Coat).This semi-
formal jacket is traditionally worn by groomsmen for daytime weddings. Cut slightly longer than a traditional jacket, in gray or black, this jacket is usually worn with matching striped trousers. Tuxedo Jacket. Can be either single- or double-breasted with a variety of button options (one to four+ for the single, two to six+ for the double). Can be worn at formal or semiformal events. Each style can have any type of lapel and is worn with black, satin-striped trousers.
Premiering at
October 18 & 19, 2008 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Premiering at
Lapels Notch. A triangular indentation that is cut where the lapel meets the collar. Peak. A broad, two-piece lapel that is V-shaped and points up and out (toward the shoulders) just below the collar line. Shawl. A smooth lapel without a notch that forms a continuous line from the neck down the front of the jacket. Usually made of a contrasting material such as satin.
Helpful hints Timing. Unlike a bride, you won’t need months to seek out and find the perfect tuxedo. Just make sure your selections are ordered at least three months or more before, and that you and your wedding party are scheduled for fittings five to seven weeks before. Be comfortable. This is a suit you’ll be wearing for at least eight hours, so make sure you like wearing it. Is it roomy enough? Does it move well? Is the fabric too light or too heavy for the season in which you’ll be marrying? Check, check and triple check.When you and your guys pick up the tuxedos, check the labels to ensure you’ve got the right size. Better yet, try the stuff on. Also look at the buttons, hooks, clasps and whatnot to make sure they’re sewn on tightly. B&G
Braintree, MA September 28, 2008 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.gabymccarthy.com
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When seeking out a videographer, you’ll be looking for many of the same qualities and elements that you would in a photographer: style, quality of work, quality of equipment, etc.To help you in your search for the “right” videographer, here is a list of 25+ questions you should ask. 1. How long have you been documenting weddings? 2. Is this your full-time job? 3. How many weddings do you document in a year? 4. What is your style? Cinematic? Documentary? 5. Do you have references? (Quality, reputable experience is key.) 6. Do you belong to any professional organizations? If so, which ones and what are the criteria to be a member? 7. What size events have you recorded? (This will help determine if they have the equipment/staff needed to cover your day.) 8. Will you coordinate with my photographer? Have you worked with him/her before? 9. Do you have sample products I can view? If so, may I see raw footage of an event as well as its final cut? (Look to see if the
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camera work is steady, clear and well lit and if the editing is smooth and seamless.) How many cameras will cover the event? How many people? Will you have backup equipment available on that day? How much time will you need to set up your equipment? What is your procedure for recording the ceremony?Are wireless microphones available? Do you use lighting (and if so, how bright is it)? Do you charge by the hour or by a flat rate? Do you offer package plans? Do you have a payment schedule? Are the costs of any assistants included in the price? Is there an additional charge for overtime? What type of camera and editing/ sound/lighting equipment do you use (digital or analog)? Is it commercial grade (high quality)? If the equipment is analog, will I be receiving the final product on a VHS tape? If so, is a DVD version available? Do you do the editing, or do you have a staff that does it? (Are you part of the process?) Are special effects used in the final product? If so, how many? And may I opt to have those effects left out? If background music is used in the final product, who selects it? If providing a DVD, will the final product be sectioned into chapters for easier navigation? If not, is this an option I can request/purchase? Is there an additional charge for extra copies? Who keeps the original footage? Can I buy the original unedited (raw) footage? What are your criteria for selecting which â&#x20AC;&#x153;occurrencesâ&#x20AC;? to record? Do you plan to interview guests during the reception? (If this is something you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want, let them know.) B&G
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B&G Planning 101
Arrowhead Acres Elegant Year-Round Country Reception Facility
Going for the gown
Featuring the Chapel in the Pines ceremony area
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A great place to kick-off a bachelor or bachelorette party!
SHOPPING
F O R A B R I DA L G OW N
(OR
maids/mothers dresses) can be an exhilarating experience. Unfortunately, it can also be a bit frustrating—especially if you’ve never shopped for such a formal frock before. B&G offers these tips for a successful sojourn to the bridal shop. Hit the ground running. The sooner you get out there the better. Most gowns (especially ordered from a manufacturer) take at least four to six months to deliver—and that doesn’t include time for alterations/fittings. If you only have a few months or weeks, limit your selections to designers with short delivery times or check out sample sales and buy off-the-rack.
Let Brew City Grill & Brew House plan that special event for you and your wedding party. Featuring over 140 beers, 18 TVs, Keno, live music and a great menu. So sit back, relax and enjoy – Brew City will take care of the rest. Cheers! 104 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
104 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester, MA 508-752-3862 | www.Brew-City.com
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Budget. We can’t stress this enough: Know what you can spend before you begin your search. Looking at gowns you can’t afford is an effort in futility, not to mention a grand waste of time and a real mood killer. Apprise bridal shop consultants of your budget and only look at gowns within that range. Don’t forget those accessories! They can add up, too. All together now. Dress shopping isn’t just for brides—it’s for maids and moms, too. Plan on selecting and ordering their dresses at the same time as your gown. Yes they’ll come in long before yours will (usually within three to four months), but that will give them plenty of time to pick up the necessary accessories (and give you peace of mind). Looks can be deceiving. No article of clothing looks the same on a hanger as it does on you, so don’t rule anything out before you head for the dressing room. Finding the best fit may mean trying on as many gowns as possible—even the ones you think you’ll hate. Besides, how many times will you get to do this? Make it fun! Style vs.trend.With designs ranging from classic to hip, there’s a gown style to suit every woman. Just be careful not to sacrifice a flattering fit for the sake of being too fashion forward. Looking your absolute best should be your main priority.This may help: Pictures are worth a thousand words. What do you want those words to be in 10 to 20 years? The entire ensemble. Once the dress is selected (this goes for maids and moms, too), decide on the finishing touches such as the headpiece, veil, jewelry, gloves, shoes, hosiery and lingerie. Especially the last three, since they will significantly affect how the dress will fit. Getting these “little” details out of the way will help keep your sanity in check (and everyone else’s). B&G
A New England Family Tradition It is our pleasure to invite you to consider us for your very special event. Our wedding packages include the facilities of a unique Revolutionary War era mansion and its meticulously landscaped grounds.
Complete wedding packages at affordable prices. Specializing in weddings, rehearsal dinners and bridal showers.
www.cockenkettle.com 240 S. Main St. Uxbridge, MA (508) 278-5517 Wheelchair accessible.
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News you can use LOOKING
F O R N E W W E D D I N G P RO D -
ucts, services and vendors available in Central New England? We’ve got them here.
Central MA bridal shop closed After 14 years of dressing wedding parties, Chrisanne Bridal & Tux of Auburn, MA, has closed its doors as of December 18, 2007. Owners Maryanne Colonero and Christine Varteresian thank all of their customers for allowing them the opportunity to take part in their wedding.
Tacori arrives at Sachs Sachs Jewelers in Shrewsbury, MA, is proud to announce the arrival of Tacori fine diamond jewelry and Baume & Mercier Swiss watches. The addition of these renowned designers to Sachs’ already extensive collection allows couples to celebrate their everlasting love with the gift of fine jewelry and diamonds. www.sachsjewelers.com
Area DJ’s special offer to B&G readers
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The last thing you want to do on your wedding day is worry if all of your plans are coming together. If only there was some type of insurance policy… Well, there is. Did you know not all DJs are the same? Selecting the right one will not only ensure your day is a success, but also bring your personality to your celebration. Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg of Sonic DJ in Fitchburg, MA, will not only build a fun, memorable, stress free reception through personalized DJ entertainment, but also will focus on behind-the-scenes details leaving you free to relax and enjoy your day. Discover how Brian can bring your wedding vows into your first dance at www.OurWeddingDJ.com and at no additional charge (a $250 value). Just mention this NewsYou Can Use feature before May 30, 2008.
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Caterer offers “cool” special with booking Cardoos Gourmet Caterers in North Grafton, MA, knows a caterer should be able to work with a bride and groom right down to the finest details. A couple should also look for creativity in a caterer both in terms of food and service for meals before, during and after the reception. Mention BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine when you book with Cardoos between now and April 30, 2008 and receive a free ice sculpture.To view sample menus go to www.cardooscater.com.
Your limo awaits… with a new name! Reliable Ride Limousine formerly of Worcester, MA, has a new name and location. Limo Affair in Oxford, MA, looks forward to “Creating an affair to remember.” (508) 731-0226; www.limoaffair.net.
Underneath it all Juliet’s Lingerie Boutique located in Worcester, MA, now carries a complete line of bridal lingerie as well as under garments, gowns and robes. For more information, call (508) 754-0056 to speak with owner Dolores Sweeney to choose your wedding and honeyB&G moon lingerie.
If you would like to promote a new product or service to B&G readers, send your information to info@bridegroommag.com. Please put “News you can use” in the Subject line.
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Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel - Marlborough
Timeless, unforgettable, unique. So it’s finally your day … make it one you will cherish forever. From an elegant gala to a quaint ceremony, we can accommodate you with a celebration unlike any other. Get whisked away in our beautiful atrium courtyard, or embrace your love for one another in our vibrant and spacious ballroom. The choice is yours. Make the first day of the rest of your lives simply … perfect.
Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel 181 Boston Post Road West Marlborough, MA 01752 Phone (508) 303-1790 Fax (508) 480-9343 abrackett@rplazahotels.com www.rplazahotels.com
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Western Style : Honeymooning in Jackson Hole
by Cynthia Allegrezza Tristan Greszko/JHMR
Considering a summer honeymoon and want to play golf at worldclass courses, chase trout in pristine streams or lakes, drift down a river in raft or kayak, hike the back trails of nearby national parks or ride horses at a dude ranch? Perhaps you are opting for a winter getaway and long to swish down some unforgettably beautiful mountain slopes, cross-country ski on seemingly endless trails, or ride a snowmobile into the forest? Then you must be thinking of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a year-round playground for couples who believe that life is more fun in the great outdoors. This area boasts a wealth of recreational opportunities to satisfy a large appetite for al fresco activities. Jackson Hole’s location high in the Rockies on the doorsteps of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks makes it a most unique setting for an invigorating and even romantic honeymoon.
Is it Jackson or Jackson Hole?
Outdoor adventures
First, however, a point of clarification: There is Jackson and Jackson Hole, two different places yet the names are used interchangeably. The city itself is Jackson,Wyoming, and it happens to lie in the great valley that runs the length of theTetons on the east side called (you guessed it!) Jackson Hole.Whatever you choose to call it, this is quite the place.
Whether you are a beginner, a seasoned pro or an adrenaline addict, in Jackson you’ll feel right at home. Outdoor activities are in high numbers here, including mountain biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking and river running in the summer; skiing, snowmobiling, snowboarding and dog sledding in the winter— just to name a few.
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The hiking is some of the best around, with a myriad of trails in nearby Grand Teton National Park and in the surrounding BridgerTeton National Forest. If a good game of golf is high on your to-do list, check out the Jackson Hole Golf and Tennis Club (307-733-3111) with an 18-hole course that’s reportedly one of the best in the country. Of course, trail rides are a staple of the Western vacation experience and there are several companies in the area that can put you in the saddle. Some hotels, including those tucked inside GrandTeton National Park, have stables and operate trail rides for their guests. Contact Jackson Hole Trail Rides (307733-6992) or Snow King Stables (307733-5781) for more information. (Rides costs about $50 for two hours.) If it’s kayaking, canoeing and sailing you crave, several operators in Jackson run schools and guide paddlers of all skill levels. The two major outfits are Snake River Kayak and Canoe School (www.snake riverkayak.com) and Rendezvous River Sports (www.jhkayakschool.com). For white-water rafting down the majestic
Photographer: Ken Redding
Snake River, Barker-Ewing (800-4484202) or Charlie SandsWildwater (800358-8184) are among several companies in Jackson that offer adrenaline-pumping day trips. But don’t plan on just being a passive passenger—this is a participatory sport.The cost for this wet ’n wild experience is about $50 for a four-hour adventure.
Snow sports and winter activities Jackson Hole is one of the premier destinations for skiers in the country. Despite a relatively remote location, chilly temperatures and a high percentage of black-diamond trails (although there are still plenty of intermediate trails), skiers flock here in droves. The two largest ski resorts in the area are putting in faster chairs to eliminate long waits in lift lines. Be sure to check the resort’s Web sites for lift-ticket cost information. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (www.jacksonhole.com) is making improvements to move into the elite international ranks. The Grand Targhee Resort (www. grandtarghee.com) lights up its hill above Jackson at night. It’s the smallest of valley’s resorts, with fairly steep and unvaried terrain,
Photographer: Garth Dowling/JHMR
but it’s within walking distance of downtown Jackson, which offers in-town convenience. If snowmobiling is your passion, these companies have guides to take you on one- and multi-day tours of Jackson Hole and surrounding areas (which includes the necessary clothing and helmets): High Country Snowmobile Tours,Wyoming Adventures and Rocky Mountain Snowmobile Tours. All share a Web site (www.snowmobiletours.net) and reservation service. A typical guided, daylong outing costs about $300, and includes breakfast, lunch, equipment and fuel. There are five Nordic centers with plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing; lessons are available at the Jackson Hole Nordic www.bridegroommag.com
Center (307-733-2629). Check the schedule of Teton Parks and Recreation (307-7335056), which takes visitors on cross-country ski outings from mid-December to mid-March. Also of note: Jackson’s ski shops are excellent sources of unofficial advice about the area’s back country. For a more leisurely tour of the area, horsedrawn sleigh rides ($16 per person) offered each winter from mid-December through March weave among the elk living in the National Elk Refuge (www.fws.gov/ nationalelkrefuge/), three miles north of Jackson.A bird’s-eye view of this stunning area can be found with the Wyoming Balloon Company (www.wyomingballoon.com). Trips start early (6:00 a.m.) and stay aloft for a little more than an hour, cruising over a 3,000acre ranch with a full frontal, jaw-dropping view of the Tetons.The journey concludes appropriately with a champagne toast at the landing site. Cost is $275 per adult.
National parks A visit to this area is incomplete without seeing the grand sights of the area’s two national parks. Grand Teton National Park is one of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring places in America. Occupying a majority of the Jackson Hole valley (about a 15-minute ride from Jackson), the park is home to overwhelming, massive mountains, pristine lakes and rivers and abundant, teeming wildlife. Yellowstone,our country’s oldest National Park, encompasses 2.2 million acres and boasts more geysers than anywhere else on the globe: BRIDE&GROOM
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250 active geysers out of 10,000 geothermal features, including the world-renowned Old Faithful. Its mountain-range wilderness is a refuge for wildlife such as grizzly bear, elk, bald eagles, American bison, moose and wolf. Yellowstone’s South Entrance is approximately 90 miles north of Jackson.
Where to stay Jackson Hole accommodations range from dude ranches to five-star hotels, condominiums to inns with prices highest during peak ski and summer seasons. During the winter, town lodging tends to be less expensive than slope-side properties in Teton Village at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa (www.rustyparrot.com) is a welcoming country spot right in the heart of busy Jackson. Decorated in the nouveau Western style of peeled log, its interior is appointed with elegant furnishings and river-rock fireplaces. Rooms are quite spacious and several have private balconies. Rates range from $205 to $650 per night and include a full breakfast. The newly opened Four Seasons Jackson Hole (www.fourseasons.cm/ JacksonHole) is luxury personified. Just steps from ski lifts, the hotel features a dedicated ski concierge, spa, rental shop, sells lift tickets, and offers ski valet services.The staff can arrange winter adventures such as wildlife safaris. In addition to dining at the resort’s slopeside restaurants, guests can savor complimentary smores and hot chocolate while soaking in an outdoor hot springs hot tub or the outdoor heated pool.With prime slope-side views of the 10,450-foot Rendezvous Mountain, the accommodations are generously sized and capture the spirit of a mountain hideaway with natural wood and stone finishes and comfortWyoming Travel and Tourism
able, residential-style furnishings. Depending on the season, a standard room is about $250. In the heart of downtown Jackson, half a block from the elk-antlered archways that mark the Town Square, is the Wort Hotel (www.worthotel.com). This Western-style inn is home to the famous S-shaped Silver Dollar Bar, embedded with 2,032 silver dollars. The lobby is graced by a warm, romantic fireplace while a sizable hand-crafted mural accents a mezzanine sitting area. The quiet formal dining room with its custom black walnut tables, doors and millwork serves notable Western cuisine. Room rates are $169 to $699 per night, depending on the season and room type. The Jenny Lake Lodge (www.gtlc.com) is indisputably one of the most romantic places in the world. Tucked inside Grand Teton National Park, this lodge prides itself on seclusion, award-winning food and the individual attentions that come with a cabin resort kept intentionally small (37 cabins).The property is hybrid of mountain-lake resort and dude ranch, with various extras included in its prices, such as a horseback ride, meals and bicycles.The cabins are rustic on the outside and luxurious within, decorated with bright braided rugs, dark wood floors, beamed ceilings, log-and-cowhide furniture and tiled bathrooms. Prices are $525 per night and include breakfast and a five-course dinner for two.The lodge is closed from mid-October to May.
Where to eat Jackson boasts an amazing and staggering array of restaurants running the gamut of cuisine and price. Grab a quick bit downtown at the Merry Piglets (307-733-2966), a snug Mexican eatery that also serves tasty Thai chicken wraps. For an old-fashioned, kick-
Tetons and Snake River at sunset
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Jenny Lake Lodge
up-your-heels chuck wagon dinner, try the Bar-T-5 Covered Wagon Cookout and Wild West Show (800-772-5386). The Blue Lion (307-733-3912) offers intimate rooms and slow-paced, elegant meals.The menu (entrées are in the mid-$20 range) features numerous wild-game specialties and fresh fish is flown in daily for dishes such as the herb-crusted rainbow trout. The Rendezvous Bistro (307-739-1100) is a contemporary yet casual eatery with excellent service, featuring a dozen oysters on the half shell and grilled New York strip frites, while the atmosphere is very laid back. For a non-stressful dining experience no matter where you go, reservations are highly recommended to avoid two-hour waits in peak winter and summer seasons.
Shopping If you get tired of the great outdoors, Jackson has national brand-name fashion outlets, tourist curio shops, excellent art galleries (ship home artwork as a honeymoon souvenir), trendy clothing stores, antique shops and outdoor equipment suppliers.The retail frenzy concentrates around Jackson’s delightfully upbeat central square, a grassy park with entryways arched by oversized tangles of elk antlers. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with its abundance of outdoor activities and spectacular mountain scenery, is truly a not-be-overlooked honeymoon destination. Cynthia Allegrezza, a regular contributorB&G to ™ BRIDE&GROOM Magazine, is a Worcesterbased freelance writer and editor who recently enjoyed the western splendor of Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino Romance has a home in the Caribbean: the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. Here, couples are whisked away to Renaissance Island, with the only private beaches on Aruba. Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty swims with style and attitude, creating the perfect atmosphere for any exchange of vows. Gourmet dining, indulgences at the spa, and cocktails by the water are just a few of the touches that make memories that last a lifetime. Discover for yourself an experience that is Uniquely Renaissance.SM
To plan your wedding, call 011-297-583-6000 ext. 6406 or email weddings@arubarenaissance.com
Park Kenmare Hotel
ROMANCING the HIGHWAYS and BYWAYS of WEST IRELAND by Katharine Dyson
Flying into Shannon leaves you in no doubt: This is a place that lives up to its reputation as the emerald isle, carpeted in rich greens with a beautiful craggy coastline. One of the best ways to visit Ireland is by car, which is easy once you get the hang of driving on the left side of the road. Since the country is relatively small—just 300 miles long and 150 miles wide—the cities and countryside are extremely accessible.You can spend the morning exploring one of Ireland’s cities such as Cork or Galway and within minutes be walking in the countryside. Nights can be spent cuddled up in a cozy B&B overlooking the sea or settled into a king-sized bed in a fairy-tale castle. Our self-drive tour takes you throughWest Ireland on a seaside route from Lahinch on the West Coast past the Cliffs of Moher and the rugged landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay. Driving
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around The Ring of Kerry will give you stunning views of sea, rocks and trees; be sure to stop at a pub for a pint of Guinness and a hearty stew. (Ask for Touring Ireland by Car available fromTourism Ireland which contains several suggested itineraries). We suggest you treat yourself like royalty and stay in Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo, for two or three nights and spend a night or two in action-packed Galway at the trendy new g hotel where the décor tantalizes your senses with vibrant colors and shapes. Then for a change of pace, check into one of Ireland’s smaller guest houses such as Moy House, a gracious small inn sitting high on the coast above Lahinch.Wherever you make your base, you’ll find Ireland is filled with things to do and see. Read on for descriptions of what is available along Ireland’s coast.
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Walking Close to 50 designated trails lace the landscape along with numerous informal trails in the countryside. Some such as the Causeway Coast Way and the Moyle Way, which follow the Antrim Coast in the north and the 134mile coastal route around the Ring of Kerry, reveal superb views of the sea.The Long Haul Trail takes you through the Tollymore Forest Park and along the 12-mile Mourne MountainWalk which dips and curves around the rugged coast. Ask for Tourism Ireland’s Walking in Ireland. Doonbeg Golf Club
Golf Ireland possesses more than one-third of the windswept challenging seaside courses in the world—a bonanza for those who love golf. Play Lahinch in County Clare, one of the world’s finest and oldest courses where the fairways rise and fall over grass-topped dunes. Ballybunion in County Kerry, Connemara in Galway and the new Greg Norman track, Doonbeg (a modern links course with slightly wider fairways and magnificent coastal views) are other good choices. Rental clubs are available at most courses, but bring a few golf balls of your own as they are pricey here. Pull carts are available; many courses do not have motorized golf carts.
Gardens and sightseeing Ireland’s moist climate contributes to exuberant thriving gardens from cottage back-
yards to grand Ballynacourty. Lying south of Shannon, Ballyacourty is designed as a series of small gardens with a laburnum walk with lavender underfoot. Muckross House in Killarney, a truly impressive 19th century manor, contains exhibits of Kerry folk life and wonderful 19th century subtropical gardens that run toward the lakes of Killarney. Annes Grove Gardens, occupying 30 acres near Cork City, features a walled garden, a glen and a riverside garden. Mount Congreve, the 300-year-old home of Ambrose Congreve, covers more than 100 acres along the wooded banks of the River Suir and is known for its collection of rhododendron, camellias, magnolias and Japanese maples. Giant’s Causeway near Londonderry is a fascinating site of some 37,000 basalt columns Dining on the terrace at Park Kenmare Hotel
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extending from the cliffs to the sea. As the legend goes, the mythical giant, Finn MacCool is said to have lived here. If you sit in his “wishing chair” and make a wish, it is supposed to come true.
Where to stay Choose one of Ireland’s smaller houses or inns and you may find yourself singing Irish songs around a fire with the innkeepers after dinner. Many places are off the beaten track so resources like Hidden Ireland and the Blue Book directories are invaluable tools. Located just 45 minutes from Shannon, Moy House, a restored estate set on 15 acres overlooking Lahinch Bay, makes an excellent base for exploring the area (you can see the fairways of the famed Lahinch golf course from the sitting room).There is nothing man-made about the view through the large windows overlooking the water: all you see are fields of grasses, the sea crashing against rocks and horses running through a nearby pasture. Rooms are simply furnished and comfortable with quilt-covered beds, chairs flanking large windows and deep claw-footed tubs large enough for two. A wonderful Irish breakfast is served daily along with dinner on many evenings (head into the town of Lahinch where there are several small pubs and restaurants). Rates are about $185 per room including breakfast. www.moyhouse.com Catch views of Galway Bay from your room in Mount Vernon, a fairytale-like Georgian seaside villa in New Quay on the edge of the Burren. Mount Vernon has a long literary and artistic heritage (it was built for a friend of George Washington in 1788 and named after BRIDE&GROOM
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GETTING THERE You are only six or so hours via air from Ireland. Aer Lingus, the national carrier, provides daily flights from major gateways in the U.S.
including daily breakfast and dinner one night. www.caseysofbaltimore.com
Castles and estates
Doonbeg Golf club
his Virginia residence). Each of the five bedrooms and public areas are impeccably furnished using a mix of antiques, original artwork and interesting appointments. Priced from $136 per person,MountVernon is a member of the Hidden Ireland collection of historic private homes. www.hiddenireland.com The Blackwater River runs through the 500 acres of the Longueville House estate in Mallow, County Cork, where guests are invited fly fishing for salmon and brown trout. All 20 rooms in this 1720s Georgian Heritage House (a Relais & Chateaux property) feature
116 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
a collection of antiques, silks and quilts. The restaurant is a winner celebrating fresh produce and regional foods including salmon.This is off-the-beaten-track countryside at its best with many romantic places to walk. Rates start at $150. www.longuevillehouse.ie For a casual, small and unpretentious place offering great value, try Casey’s of Baltimore in West Cork. Here there are 14 very pleasant cheery rooms, beds with duvets, coffee and tea service, trouser press—all extra amenities you might not expect at an inn with modest prices of around $264 per room for a two-night stay
www.bridegroommag.com
One of the best parts of staying in one of Ireland’s castles or manor house hotels is living with history; some places date back hundreds of years. Furnishings often include original oil paintings and sculpture, antique mahogany armoires, chaise lounges, dressing tables with silver hand mirrors, leatherbound books—all things that may have been passed down through generations of good living. Since most of these properties occupy expansive estate grounds you can enjoy pursuits like salmon fishing, sporting clays, golf, riding and croquet. It’s rather like being a guest of royalty (in some cases that’s exactly what you are) except, of course, there’s a tab at the end of your stay. For a grand and opulent experience, check into Glin Castle. Sitting on a 500-acre estate on the banks of the river Shannon southwest of Limerick, this 18th century castle is filled with grand antique furniture, oriental carpets, ceilings that are works of art and a rare flying staircase leading to the second floor. Each bedroom is different, with some featuring a dressing table, chaise lounge, chairs and fireplace. Dining is by candlelight for the ultimate romantic evening. Go regal at the massive gray stone Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo.The former country estate of the Guinness family, Ashford’s roots date back to 1228. Set on 350 acres of private woodlands on the shores of Lough Corrib, this is the place where Pierce Bronsnan tied the knot. Each of the 83 rooms are individually decorated and include items such as antique writing desks, original artwork, claw-foot tubs and marble baths. Sherry, bath robes, chocolates and the like lend the luxury touch. Try your hand at falconry, fishing, golf, horseback riding, tennis or boating.Then savor a gourmet dinner in the GeorgeV Room over-
Cork City
looking the river, in the intimate Connaught Room featuring French cuisine or in the privacy of your own room by candlelight. After dinner, have coffee or a brandy in the Drawing Room and on some evenings, enjoy musical entertainment while Waterford chandeliers sparkle overhead. Rates start about $320 for a room; midweek packages from $426 include room, dinner for two and an Irish breakfast. www.ashford.ie
Resort hotels Rooms and suites at the Victorian-style Park Hotel Kenmare & Spa, located on the Southwest Coast, are loaded with fine Irish linens, marble baths, canopy beds and antiques. About two and one-half hours southeast of ShannonAirport, the hotel, built in 1897, occupies 12 acres and all rooms have views of landscaped gardens, woods or the sea.The gourmet restaurant features fresh regional seafood and meat, artfully presented with accompaniments such as truffle dressing, tapenade and chive cream. www.parkkenmare.com The Elizabethan-style Lodge at Doonbeg, in Country Clare, a private club with limited visitor access to the stunning Greg Normandesigned golf course, can take your honeymoon over the top. If you ever wanted to see how the landed gentry vacation, this is it. Suites and cottages feature dramatic views of the ocean and the dune-swept countryside.
FOR MORE INFORMATION www.irelandsbluebook.com www.irishcountryhotels.com www.discoverireland.com
Each residence is furnished differently with18th and 19th century Irish, English and Scottish antique furniture and appointments interspersed with a few painted country pieces. Luxury appointments include heated towel racks, stonetopped vanities, fireplaces, plasmaTVs, DVDs, kitchens, whirlpools and wonderful reclaimed antique and wood beams and winding staircases. Doonbeg is new, but it settles into the landscape so well, it looks like it has been here for hundreds of years. Rates from $304 per suite. www.doonbeggolfclub.com
Galway Looking for action? Think Galway, a modern confident city oozing with energy. One of fastest growing cities in Europe with a young, hip population, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find music everywhere. There are plenty of festivals, night spots and cozy cafes and restaurants. The g Hotel is new and sophisticated with a vibrant stylish design. Colors of violet, lime green, turquoise and scarlet abound along with mirrored surfaces, glass lamps and hundreds of gold and silver globes hanging from the ceilings in the public lounges, dining venues and bar. Soft grays and mother-ofpearl, on the other hand, set a seductive tone in the101 spacious contemporary bedrooms. Amenities include 32-inch LCD TVs and bathrooms with double showers and heated limestone floors. Though in the city, this hot spot provides an eclectic oasis with gardens, sculpture and striking artwork. www.theghotel.ie B&G Travel writer Katharine Dyson is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM â&#x201E;˘ Magazine. www.bridegroommag.com
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BRIDE&GROOM
Winter 2008
117
AV R Photography Best of Both Worlds Voted Best o f at Wed Show ding E x po 2004
Photography & Video
ONLY
$1695
Advance Video Recordings & Photography 743 Moody St., Waltham, MA 02154
AdvanceVideo.com
978-250-8117
Established 1985
Function Facility P L A N N I N G
G U I D E
Grouped alphabetically by region: Worcester, West of Worcester, East of Worcester, South of Worcester and North of Worcester Types of Functions Offered:
E - Engagement Parties
B - Bridal Showers
D - Rehearsal Dinners
W - Wedding Receptions
Contact Person
Types of Functions
Price Range
On-Site Catering
Package Plan Available
Min/Max Room Capacity
Beechwood Hotel (Inside Front Cover)
Sales Office
E, B, D, W
$63 – 90
Yes
Yes
50/250
363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 754-5789 • Fx: (508) 754-0731 sales@beechwoodhotel.com www.beechwoodhotel.com
The perfect marriage of elegance and simplicity. Magnificent Grand Ballroom, suited for small and large affairs. Luxurious overnight accommodations, plus unrivaled personal service.
Brew City Grill & Brew House (104)
Michelle Frieswick
104 Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 752-3862 • Fx: (508) 890-5094 www.Brew-City.com
Let Brew City Grill & Brew House plan that special event for you and your guests. Call for specialty catering menus.
Crowne Plaza - Worcester (102)
Mandy Cohen
10 Lincoln Square, Worcester, MA 01608 Ph: (508) 751-6515 • Fx: (508) 791-1796 csmwor@lodgian.com • www.cpworcester.com
Custom, creative menu of your choice, romantically designed grand ballroom garden gazebo for your cocktail reception and pictures. Discounted overnight rooms for your guests.
Reception Facility
Number Overnight Ceremony of Events AccommoSite (Held at one time) dations
Worcester
B, D
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
Varies
Yes
$30 – 75
1–2
No
Yes
Yes
1
Yes
No
1–2
No
150/425
Yes
1
No
15/38
No
1
No
No
1
No
Max 250
Yes
1
No
25/100
No
1
No
1
No
1/400
Lee Hanson
Mechanics Hall (Inside Back Cover)
Sharon Onorato
321 Main Street, Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 752-5608 • Fx: (508) 754-8442 info@mechanicshall.org • www.mechanicshall.org
Celebrate your wedding surrounded by historic Victorian elegance. Our spacious facilities accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations.
Rovezzi’s Ristorante (92)
Sheri Bastardo
108 Grove St., Northworks Bldg. Worcester, MA 01609 • Ph: (508) 753-4511 sheri@rovezzis.com • www.rovezzis.com
Beautifully appointed private room available for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions. Customized menu planning with personalized touch.
Tribeca (11)
Steven Greene
92 Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA 01604 Ph: (508) 754-7600 • Fx: (508) 754-7601 tribeca4@verizon.net • www.tribeca92.com
Tribeca is one of the newest upscale restaurants providing excellent food and a beautiful, elegant setting for your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner or wedding reception.
Tuckerman Hall (49)
Paul Levenson
10 Tuckerman St., P.O. Box 20070 West Side Station, Worcester, MA 01602-0070 Ph: (508) 754-1234 • Fx: (508) 754-5329 www.tuckermanhall.org
Tuckerman Hall’s dazzling Gilded Age elegance makes it one of the finest facilities in America for weddings and other social occasions.
Viva Bene Italian Ristorante (24)
Keivon Mizrahi
144 Commercial St., Worcester, MA 01608 Ph: (508) 799-9999 • Fx: (508) 753-0434 www.vivabenerestaurant.com
Visit our elegant function room. We will cater to your event with exceptional food and attentive service. Mention this ad and receive a “special gift.”
E, B, D
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$30 – 50
$30 – 50
Varies
Yes
Yes
Yes
Under $30
Under $30
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
25/125
No
A hidden jewel great for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions. Buffets, sitdown and family style meals available. Come and see for yourself. All couples welcome.
Yes
No
1/35
11 Brackett Ct., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 753-9490 • Fx: (508) 797-5123
Varies
Yes
Yes
Leo’s Ristorante (99)
E, B, D, W
Under $30
Yes
1–2
Yes
Yes
15/120
Worcester Art Museum (99)
Special Events
55 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 799-4406 x3077 • Fx: (508) 799-4767 specialevents@worcesterart.org • www.worcesterart.org
Rent exquisite spaces for your next important social occasion, and allow the special events staff to help you create the event of your dreams.
25/120
Yes
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions Be sure to tell these advertisers you saw their ad in BRIDE&GROOM! Publisher and function facilities assume no responsibility for typographical errors. Prices are subject to change. www.bridegroommag.com
BRIDE&GROOM
Winter 2008
119
Reception Facility
Contact Person
Types of Functions
Price Range
On-Site Catering
Package Plan Available
Min/Max Room Capacity
Adam Dossas
E, B, D, W
$20 – 50
No
Yes
20/150
Number Overnight Ceremony of Events AccommoSite (Held at one time) dations
East of Worcester Aegean Restaurant (36) 257 Cochituate Road, Framingham, MA 01701 Ph: (508) 879-8424 info@aegeanrestaurants.com www.aegeanrestaurants.com
Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel (108) 181 Boston Post Rd. West, Marlboro, MA 01752 Ph: (508) 303-1782; (888) 543-9500 Fx: (508) 480-9343 ldumont@rplazahotels.com • www.rplazahotels.com
No
2
State of the art location features private function events accommodating 20-150 guests, providing full audio, visual, full bar and outdoor patio. Located off the Mass.Pike/Route 9. Flexible packages available.
Lindsay Dumont
E, B, D, W
$29 – 65
Yes
Yes
50/600
Yes
2
Yes
Yes
1
No
1–2
Yes
2
Yes
2
No
Make all your wedding dreams come true! Our attentive and professional wedding consultants are inviting you to experience uncompromised service in our enchanting ballroom.
Charter Oak Country Club (51)
Christine Mazri
Chestnut St., Hudson, MA 01749 Ph: (978) 562-0800 (ext. 613) cmazri@charteroakcc.com • www.charteroakcc.com
Experience a wedding of extraordinary elegance when you select Charter Oak Country Club. Our Georgian-style private club setting offers an unparalleled level of service and culinary excellence.
Doubletree Hotel (44)
Stephanie Gagliano
5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581 Ph: (508) 616-7436 • Fx: (508) 366-3950 stephanie_gagliano@hilton.com www.bostonwestborough.doubletree.com
Welcoming all couples to experience the Doubletree personalized wedding experience. Customized packages available including complimentary menu tasting, candle centerpieces, white glove service and much more.
Holiday Inn Boxborough (82)
Stephen Guay
242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA 01719 Ph: (978) 889-1715 • Fx: (978) 266-9429 sguay@hiboxborough.com www.boxboroughweddings.com
Newly renovated facility with lush greenery courtyard and gazebo or elegant Grand Ballroom with Terrace Bar. Convenient location that offers flexible wedding packages and menus.
Indian Meadows Country Club (98)
Rebecca Nanof
275 Turnpike Road (Rte. 9), Westborough, MA Ph: (508) 366-6526 • Fx: (508) 836-0233 www.indianmeadowsfunctions.com
We offer lovely views of the golf course to enhance your special day. We will accommodate your wishes for a memorable reception.
Marlborough Country Club (88)
Ann-Marie Busby
200 Concord Rd., Marlborough, MA 01752 Ph: (508) 485-1660 ext.14 • Fx: (508) 460-8932 marlborocc@aol.com • www.marlboroughcountryclub.com
We offer three rooms of various sizes with sophisticated ambience and professional decor. Daytime and evening functions decorated as informally or as elegantly as you choose.
Riverview (13)
Angela Weagle
13 Port Street, Hudson, MA 01749 Ph: (978) 568-1541 • info@riverviewhpc.com www.riverviewhpc.com
A newly built, Mediterranean style function hall with its elegantly classic design provides a perfect ambience for any special occasion.
Sheraton Braintree Hotel (25)
Amy Kern
37 Forbes Road, Braintree, MA 02184 Ph: (781) 794-6255 amy.kern@sheraton.com www.sheraton.com/braintreeweddings
The Sheraton Braintree Hotel boasts the benefits of Boston at a suburban address, offering 374 spacious guestrooms and 20,000 feet of versatile function space.
Sheraton Colonial Hotel & Golf Club (79)
Michele Tocco
1 Audubon Rd., Wakefield, MA 01880 Ph: (781) 876-6007 • Fx: (781) 246-4636 mtocco@pyramidhotels.com www.sheraton.com/wakefield
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D ,W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$75+
$30 – 70
$30 – 50
$30 – 50
Under $30
Varies
Varies
$30 – 100
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
130/275
50/550
2/400
20/350
Max 180
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1 or 2
No
30/600
Yes
3
No
10/350
Yes
1
Yes
1–3
Yes
1–2
Yes
40/400
Yes
From intimate ceremonies to large celebrations, the Sheraton Colonial Hotel & Gold Club Boston North is the perfect venue to create an everlasting memory of your wedding day.
Alyssa Close
Sheraton Framingham Hotel (16) 1657 Worcester Road, Framingham, MA 01701 Ph: (781) 270-1927 • Fx: (508) 875-2541 alyssa.close@sheraton.com www.sheraton.com
E, B, D, W
$75+
Yes
Yes
25/600
Yes
From intimate gatherings to large celebrations the Sheraton Framingham Hotel is the perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams.
Stow Acres Country Club (94)
Karen Giles
58 Randall Rd., Stow, MA 01775 Ph: (978) 568-1100 x107 • Fx: (978) 562-4573 kgiles@stowacres.com • www.stowacres.com
Our recently restored Victorian clubhouse features fireplaces, a large oak dance floor, and many windows. Enjoy cocktails on our wrap-around porch and brick patio.
White Cliffs Function Facility (30)
E, B, D, W
Phyllis Joseph
E, B, D, W
$30 – 65
$30 – 50
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
50/250
100/350
Yes
Yes
1
No
-
No
167 Main St., P.O. Box 510, Northboro, MA 01532 Ph: (508) 393-3695 • Fx: (508) 393-0271 sales@whitecliffs.com • www.whitecliffs.com
1886 Victorian mansion specializing in elegant wedding receptions, Bar Mitzvahs and prestigious corporate functions. Two beautiful ballrooms available. Ceremony space and flexible hours considered.
Be sure to tell these advertisers you saw their ad in BRIDE&GROOM! Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions Publisher and function facilities assume no responsibility for typographical errors. Prices are subject to change.
120 Winter
2008
No
BRIDE&GROOM
www.bridegroommag.com
On-Site Catering
Package Plan Available
Min/Max Room Capacity
Yes
Yes
20/300
Number Overnight Ceremony of Events AccommoSite (Held at one time) dations
Contact Person
Types of Functions
Price Range
Leicester Country Club (77)
Judy Hastings
E, B, D, W
$30 – 70
1430 Main St., Leicester, MA 01524 Ph: (508) 281-4493 • Fx: (508) 892-1331 jhastingslcc@charterinternet.com • www.leicestercc.com
Spectacular views, affordable prices, ample parking and seating for 20-300 guests. Ask about our Winter and Summer Romance Wedding Packages. Friday and Sunday discounts available.
Old Sturbridge Village (39)
Craig Arnold
1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (508) 347-0398 • Fx: (508) 347-0375 carnold@osv.org • www.osv.org
Start your future in our past at Old Sturbridge Village where our historic backdrop creates a unique and timeless atmosphere for your wedding.
Overlook Catering & Reception Room (26)
Sales Office
88 Masonic Home Road, Charlton, MA 01507 Ph: (508) 434-2281 • Fx: (508) 434-2500 info@overlookcatering.org • www.overlookcatering.org
The perfect setting for wedding, showers, rehearsal dinners and other events. The Overlook Reception Room is located in Charlton, just minutes from Sturbridge and Worcester.
Periwinkles Garden Court (80)
Arnold Villatico, Jr.
892 Southbridge St., Rt. 20, Auburn/Oxford Line, MA Ph: (508) 832-9705 • Fx: (508) 832-7978 winkles05@aol.com • www.periwinkles-giorgios.com
For 90+ people (in Café Room), included in the per-person price are: liner, cake cutting, setup/breakdown charges, and the cost of serving two different meals.
Publick House (45)
Cathy O’Brien
On the Common, P.O. Box 187, Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (800) PUBLICK, (508) 347-3313 x286 Fx: (508) 347-5073 sales@publickhouse.com • www.publickhouse.com
Rehearsal dinners to showers to overnight guest rooms, the Publick House makes every event special with a unique mix of location, charm and warm hospitality.
Rovezzi’s Ristorante (92)
Sharon Rogerson
Rte. 20 & Rte. 148, Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (508) 347-0100 sharon@rovezzis.com • www.rovezzis.com
Beautifully appointed private room available for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions. Customized menu planning with personalized touch.
Salem Cross Inn (61)
Donna Bennett
260 W. Main St. (Rte. 9) W. Brookfield, MA Ph: (508) 867-8337 • Fx: (508) 867-0351 info@salemcrossinn.com • www.salemcrossinn.com
Authentic 1705 farmhouse, spectacular scenery, complimentary wedding planning, established reputation as one of the finest restaurants in New England.
Sturbridge Host Hotel (47)
Lise Soper
366 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA • Ph: (508) 347-7393 Fx: (508) 347-3824 •lsoper@sturbridgehosthotel.com www.sturbridgehosthotel.com
Sturbridge Host Hotel features beautiful lakeside offerings, indoor garden terrace and elegant ballroom. Personal attention and delectable cuisine will dazzle you.
Reception Facility
West of Worcester
The Harding Allen Estate (40) Rte. 122 off Barre Common, Barre, MA 01005 (978) 355-4920 • www.harding-allen.com
Grace Gugliotti or Gloria Barry
E, B, D, W
E, B, D ,W
E, B, D ,W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$50 – 85
Varies
Under $30
$35 and up
$30 – 50
$30 – 50
$79 – 129
$30 – 50
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
1
No
15/200
Yes
1
No
Yes
1
No
Yes
Varies
Yes
No
1
No
15/60
Yes
Yes
No
6/225
Yes
Max 350
Yes
Max 300
No
2
Yes
Yes
1
Yes
Yes
1
Yes
Yes
1
No
Yes
1
No
Yes
1
No
Yes
Varies
No
Massachusetts’ premier wedding and banquet historic mansion — for when it has to be special.
Zukas Hilltop Barn (63)
Lynn Zukas
89 Smithville Rd., Spencer, MA 01562 Ph: (508) 885-5320 • Fx: (508) 885-5546 zukasfarm@aol.com • www.zukas.com
The perfect setting for a country wedding. Hilltop views, private location with personal attention to every detail. Newly built function room seating up to 130 guests.
E, B, D, W
South of Worcester E, B, W
$30 – 60
Under $30 to 50
Yes
50/250
David Morin
92 Aldrich St. (Rte. 98), Uxbridge, MA 01569 Ph: (508) 278-5017 • Fx: (508) 278-3841 info@arrowheadacres.com • www.arrowheadacres.com
An elegant Country Club style facility complete with “Chapel in the Pines,” decorative bridge, country stone wall locations, and a beautiful fireplace for group photographs.
Catherine Elliott
50 w/tent A beautifully restored, historical mansion with a charm and elegance rarely found today. Estate grounds feature a 19th century style bandstand for ceremonies and photographs.
Blissful Meadows Golf Club (86)
Melissa Laskowski
801 Chockalog Rd., Uxbridge, MA Ph: (508) 278-6110 • Fx: (508) 278-7223 info@blissfulmeadows.com • www.blissfulmeadows.com
Country setting in converted historic barn. Outdoor gazebo for ceremonies and picture taking. Oversized deck for cocktail hours. Easy access to Worcester and Providence via 146.
Pleasant Valley Country Club (87) 95 Armsby Rd., Sutton, MA Ph: (508) 865-4441 • Fx: (508) 865-2276 sales@pleasantvalleycc.com www.pleasantvalleycc.com
Colleen Sampson or Sarah Moore
Under $30
E, B, D, W Under $30 to $50
No
Yes
Yes
No
50/500
P.O. Box 421, 123 Elm St., Millbury, MA Ph: (508) 865-0855 • www.asawaters.org
E, B, D, W
Varies
Yes
Asa Waters Mansion (100)
240 S. Main St., P.O. Box 368, Uxbridge, MA Ph: (508) 278-5517 • Fx: (508) 278-3903 ctsampson@verizon.net • www.cockenkettle.com
E, B, D, W
Yes
Yes
Arrowhead Acres (104)
Cocke ‘n Kettle Restaurant (105)
No
Yes
Max 240
No
2
20/290
90/250
Yes
Yes
Max 85 (inside)
No
Yes
50/175
25/200
Cocke ’n Kettle Restaurant has been pleasing brides & grooms for 35 years, offering complete wedding packages along with outdoor ceremonies in meticulously manicured gardens. Handicap accessible.
Michelle Violette or Kerry Bardon
E, B, D, W
Under $30 to $50
Yes
Yes
20/400
Yes
1 in each building
No
20/130
Yes
1
Yes
Our magnificent views, elegant dining and attention to every detail will make your special occasion a day to remember. Accommodating events from 20–400 guests.
The Grafton Inn (56)
Kate Loughan
25 Grafton Common, Grafton, MA 01519 Ph: (508) 839-5931• Fx: (508) 839-1592 www.thegraftoninn.com
E, B, D, W Under $30 to 70 Yes
Yes
Renovated historic inn under NEW ownership, serving the finest foods on beautiful Grafton Common. Let our caring staff make your event one to remember always.
www.bridegroommag.com
BRIDE&GROOM
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Contact Person
Types of Functions
Price Range
On-Site Catering
Package Plan Available
Chocksett Inn (4)
Paula Kwiatkowski
E, B, D, W
$50 – 75
Yes
Yes
59 Laurelwood Rd., Sterling, MA 01564 Ph: (978) 422-3355 • Fx: (978) 422-3187 info@chocksettinn.com • www.chocksettinn.com
Country romance – featuring a stunning garden, canopied deck, elegant reception rooms, luxurious overnight accommodations, warm hospitality and fabulous food.
Colonial Hotel (9)
Mary Whitman
Reception Facility
Min/Max Room Ceremony Capacity Site
Number of Events
Overnight Accommo(Held at one time) dations
North of Worcester
625 Betty Spring Rd., Gardner, MA Ph: (978) 630-2500 • Fx: (978) 632-0913 weddingsales@colonial-hotel.com www.colonial-hotel.com
E, B, D, W
$30 – 60
Yes
Yes
25/250
25/425
Yes
1–2
Yes
Yes
1–3
Yes
Yes
1–2
Yes
Yes
1
Yes
Yes
3
No
No
1
No
No
1
No
Yes
1
Nearby
Classic elegance, attentive service and wonderful food. Elegant grand ballroom accommodating 25 - 425 guests. Spacious courtyard tent allows for picturesque ceremonies.
Four Points by Sheraton, Leominster (10)
Erin O’Neill-Wholey E, B, D, W
99 Erdman Way, Jct. Rtes. 2 & 12 , Leominster, MA Ph: (978) 534-9000 • Fx: (978) 466-3400 erin@fourpointsleom.com www.fourpoints.com/leominster
Make all your wedding dreams come true! Outstanding facilities, custom menus, special attention to every detail. Call for more information regarding facilities and service.
Harrington Farm (53)
Irena Clark
178 Westminster Rd., Princeton, MA (978) 464-5600 x11 • sales@harringtonfarm.com www.harringtonfarm.com
We offer an elegant country ambiance with spectacular food and service while Mother Nature provides the panoramic views and scenic backdrops for your special day.
Hidden Hills - Four Star Catering (89)
Mark Hagemeyer
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$25 – 60
$50 – 75
$30 – 50
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Available
Yes
25/600
50/225
50/600
202 Rindge Rd., Rindge, NH 03461 Ph: (603) 899-5001, (800) 698-5002 • Fx: (603) 899-2037 Beautifully decorated indoor and outdoor facility serving up to 600 guests.
Customized menus and services based on your complete satisfaction. All we need is you!
fourstarcatering@prodigy.net www.fourstarcatering.com
Mount Pleasant Country Club (35) 369 Cross Street, Boylston, MA 01505 Ph: (508) 869-2326 • Fx: (508) 869-3197 mdonahue@mountpleasantcc.org www.mountpleasantcc.org
Michael Donahue
E, B, D, W
Under $30
Yes
No
30/250
Mount Pleasant is situated on 200 pristine acres in Central Massachusetts. The Clubhouse ballroom is the perfect venue for showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions.
Joe Lysiak
Rovezzi’s Ristorante (92)
E, B, D
$30 – 50
Yes
No
15/50
249 Main St., Rutland, MA 01543 Ph: (508) 886-4600 joe@rovezzis.com • www.rovezzis.com
Beautifully appointed private room available for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions. Customized menu planning with personalized touch.
Shattuck Golf Club (107)
Kathie Saari
53 Dublin Road, Jaffrey, NH 03452 Ph: (603) 878-2000 Kathie@shattuckweddings.com www.shattuckweddings.com
E, B, D, W
$30 – 50
Yes
Yes
25/250
Breathtaking scenic vistas overlook the Mountain View Grille for bridal showers/rehearsal dinners, the Stone Terrace for ceremonies/photos and the Shattuck’s Cathedral Ballroom for idyllic receptions.
Sterling National Country Club (8)
Alexandra Bavosi
33 Albright Road, Sterling, MA Ph: (978) 422-0275 • Fx: (978) 422-8055 www.sterlingcc.com
E, B, D, W
$25 – 65
Yes
Yes
25/225
Private club setting with panoramic views of championship golf course provides you with 200+ seating,an oversized dance floor, bridal room and award winning chefs.
Yes
1
No
Yes
2
No
Yes
2
No
The Manor Restaurant and Function Facilities (90)
Dianne Johnson
42 West Boylston St., West Boylston, MA Ph: (508) 835-5880 • Fx: (508) 835-3893 dianne@ourmanor.com • www.ourmanor.com
Come and enjoy our brand new beautiful facility, elegant ballrooms, private hospitality rooms, undivided attention, accommodating service. Prime dates for 2008/2009.
The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant (83)
Kristy Ashley
Route 2A, P.O. Box 460, Westminster, MA 01473 Ph: (978) 874-5941 • Fx: (978) 874-0914 www.1761oldmill.com
The 1761 Old Mill offers the best of New England hospitality and charm. Our picturesque setting is the perfect location for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or shower.
Wachusett Mountain (55)
Melissa Banks
499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 Ph: (978) 464-3175 • Fx: (978) 464-3185 missy@wachusett.com • www.wachusett.com
Surrounded by magical and breathtaking vistas, the ideal wedding location. From ceremonies to receptions, our attentitive staff is dedicated to serving you. Off-weekend discounts available.
Wachusett Village Inn (43)
Michelle Kupfer
9 Village Inn Rd., Westminster, MA Ph: (978) 571-2524 • Fx: (978) 874-1753 michelle@wachusettvillageinn.com www.wachusettvillageinn.com
Design your destination wedding weekend! Full service facility with salon and spa services. Exclusive to our package is a horse drawn carriage and chocolate fountain.
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$20 – 60
Under $30
$30 – 50
$42 – 52
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
25/375
10/150
300 Max
10/400
Yes
Yes
1
No
2
Yes
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions Be sure to tell these advertisers you saw their ad in BRIDE&GROOM! Publisher and function facilities assume no responsibility for typographical errors. Prices are subject to change.
122 Winter
2008
BRIDE&GROOM
www.bridegroommag.com
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Wedding Resources Bagpiper Books Bouquet Preservation Bridal Registry Bridal Shops Cakes Catering Ceremony Music Destination Weddings Donation Services Entertainment
124 124 124 124 124 124 125 125 125 125 125
Favors Finance Fitness Florists Hair & Makeup Honeymoon Spots Invitations Jewelry Limousines Lingerie Mortgage
125 125 125 125 126 126 126 126 126 126 126
Officiants 126 Photography 126-127 Pre-wedding Services 127 Reception Facilities 119 Rentals 127 Restaurants 127 Shoes 127 Tuxedos 127 Videography 127 Wedding Consulting 127 Wedding Internet Services 127
Bagpiper
Bridal Shops
Cakes
Sound O’ the Pipes (86)
Bridals by Rochelle (42)
Bean Counter Cake & Pastry Shop (42)
101 Turnpike Rd., Ashby, MA 01431 (978) 386-7797 www.soundothepipes.com Celebrate your special occasion with expert bagpiping. Over 30 years of experience, demo CD, four wedding packages, Scottish and Irish music and FREE T-shirts!
32A South Main St., Uxbridge, MA 01569 (508) 278-9166 info@bridalsbyrochelle.com www.bridalsbyrochelle.com Featuring the latest styles of wedding gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, special occasion dresses and bridal accessories. See the difference personal service will make for you.
288 Boston Turnpike Rd., Shrewsbury, MA (508) 754-0505 Allow Bean Counter Bakery to work with you in creating your dream wedding cake. We offer elegant designs and exquisite flavors.
Books
Elegance by Carbonneau (81)
Thomas O’Brien (90) www.thomaseobrien.com A Master Storyteller. Author of crime and mystery novels gripping enough to keep you wanting to know more. Promised to be a book club favorite.
Bouquet Preservation Holmes-Shusas Florist, Inc. (59) One Ararat Street, Worcester, MA 01606 (508) 853-2550 • (800) 638-1418 www.Holmes-Shusas.com Specializing in freeze dried wedding bouquets since 1989. All preservations done on site. Four styles to choose from. We can include your invitation! Visit us online.
Bridal Registry Kohl’s Bridal Aisle® Gift Registry (75) For the Kohl’s store nearest you, call (800) 837-1500 www.kohls.com Kohl’s Bridal Aisle® Gift Registry. Visit our gift registry in store or online at Kohls.com today!
Macy’s (Back Cover) (800) 568-8865 www.macysweddingchannel.com Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry provides couples and guests with the ultimate registry experience with over 400 stores nationwide, a toll-free number and 24-hour online services.
Royal Prestige Products (103) (508) 285-5044 www.rpbridalconcepts.com Royal Prestige specializes in West Bend healthy cooking products, fine china, crystal, quality tableware, cutlery, water and air purification. Fifty-year warranties.
124 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
Country Harvest Bakery
315 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 292 West Boylston St., Worcester, MA (508) 752-0431 • www.elegancebycarbonneau.com Everything Bridal! Offering a large selection of bridal gowns, shoes, tiaras, veils, accessories and much more!
344 Great Road, Acton, MA 01720 (800) 625-7889 www.countryharvestbakery.com Customized from the flavor of the cake to the design. Personalized service and nice prices. Call for an appointment and cake tasting.
Loren’s Bridal (31)
Crown Bakery (50)
454 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (508) 347-5222 When choosing your wedding gown, discover Loren’s where we’ll treat your wedding like it was our own. Appointments suggested.
Gold Star Blvd., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 852-0746 www.thecrownbakery.com Let Crown Bakery create the wedding of your dreams with your own distinctive wedding cake. Specializing in party pastries, cookie trays and cake ornaments.
Pronuptia Bridals (34)
Culpepper’s Bakery
Picadilly Plaza, 490 Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA (508) 753-4426 www.pronuptiabridals.com Pronuptia Bridals is the leading full-service bridal salon in Worcester County, offering the best selection of bridal, bridesmaids, mothers, flowergirls and prom gowns.
500 Cambridge St., Worcester, MA 01610 (508) 755-8393 A quality cake you will be proud to serve. Full line of cookie and pastry trays also available.
Sposa Atelier (62)
Custom Wedding Cakes by Penny Eagleton (61)
264 North Broadway, Salem, NH 03079 (603) 893-7250 www.sposaatelier.com Sposa Atelier is a high concept bridal studio whose proprietor is an acclaimed gown designer. We offer a most unique experience for the bride-to-be.
Auburn, MA 01501 (508) 832-3814 www.customweddingcakesbypenny.com Beautiful cakes! Gourmet flavors including the original awardwinning “Kahlúa Cookie Cake.” For personalized service and free delivery in Worcester area, call Penny.
The Special Event Bridal Shoppe (54)
Dianne Rockwell – The Cake Lady (36)
114 Broad St., Marlboro, MA 01752 (508) 624-9392 www.specialeventbridalshop.com Specializing in wedding gowns and party dresses for special occasions. Call for an appointment at your convenience.
239 Sterling Rd., Lancaster, MA 01523 (978) 365-5092 cakelady@wwwisp.com • wwwisp.com/cakelady Custom designed wedding cakes, exquisitely decorated & available in dozens of delicious flavor combinations. Free local delivery. Consultations by appointment.
www.bridegroommag.com
Catering
Rachel’s Table
Fitness
Buggy Whip Catering
633 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609 (508) 799-7699 Brides, donate your excess food from your banquet to families at a local homeless shelter. Rachel’s Table will deliver for you.
Worcester Fitness (96)
343 Providence Road, South Grafton, MA 01560 (508) 839-3458 www.buggywhipcatering.com The Buggy Whip Catering Service has been serving traditional American fare to brides and grooms in Worcester and surrounding counties since 1953.
Cardoos Gourmet Caterers (6, 7) 135 Westborough Rd., North Grafton, MA (508) 839-2213, (877) 655-3911 cardcater@aol.com • www.cardooscater.com Catering to the brides of New England for over 30 years. Voted best wedding caterer for 11 years in Metro West by Community Newspapers.
Currier & Chives (20) 24 Main Street, Maynard, MA 01754 (877) 424-4837 madams@currier-chives.com • www.currier-chives.com Caterers of weddings throughout Boston and West-of-Boston areas. We are preferred caterers at seven major function facilities. Call for information. Our goal: “Exceptional food—No exceptions.”
Pepper’s Fine Foods Catering (60) 43 Hudson St., Northboro, MA 01532 (508) 393-6844 • www.pepperscatering.com Your dreams and our experience... the taste and imagination of great catering. Over 16 years of experience with innovative cuisine and custom event design.
Struck Catering (48) 130 Hamilton St., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 755-5953 info@struckcatering.com • www.struckcatering.com Elegant, Whimsical... Simply Delicious! Let Struck Catering bring your ideas to the table. Please call for our full wedding package.
Ceremony Music Wedding Trumpeter (107) 28 JFK Ave., Clinton, MA (788) 365-6337 weddingtrumpeter@excite.com www.weddingtrumpeter.com Mark Bacon “The Wedding Trumpeter” has been performing glorious and triumphant music since 1983. Your complimentary wedding music planner and MP3’s are online at: WeddingTrumpeter.com.
Destination Weddings Young’s/American Express Travel (116)
Why Me, Inc. 1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA 01602 (508) 757-7734 • info@WhyMe.org • www.whyme.org Why Me & Sherry’s House provide Central New England families with emotional and financial assistance, helping to alleviate the pain and isolation of childhood cancer.
Worcester County Food Bank 474 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 842-FOOD (3663) The Worcester County Food Bank distributes almost 4 million pounds of food to nearly 300 local shelters, food pantries, soup kitchens, etc. in 60+ communities.
Entertainment Hi-TECH SOUND (98) (800) 649-4487 • DJ@mixhits.com • www.mixhits.com Today’s hits & yesterday’s classics. Polite personalities and superior sound systems. Your wedding done your way with Hi-TECH SOUND.
Music Sensations NEW ENGLAND’S WEDDING SPECIALISTS Worcester, MA • (508) 767-1173 roberta@music-sensations.com www.music-sensations.com The classy alternative to your ordinary DJ. Customized entertainment. Over 50,000 songs! 100% digital professional sound systems. Fully insured. Member of American Disc Jockey Association.
New England Conservatory Music Referral Service (101)
440 Grove St., Worcester, MA • (508) 852-8209 St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester, MA • (508) 363-7000 www.worcesterfitness.com Personal training - Fitness instruction - Massage - and more.
Florists Auburn Florist/The Oxford Branch 352 Southbridge St., Auburn, MA • (508) 832-3217 407 Main St., Oxford, MA • (508) 987-3330 www.auburnflirist.biz Simple... elaborate... anywhere in between! Assisting area brides for over 40 years. Now in two locations for your convenience. Stop in or call for brochure.
Danielson Flowers (93) 660 Main St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 842-8992 www.danielsonflowers.com Let our experienced staff make your day beautiful. View our Web site for photos of our bouquets and information. See our private wedding area for ideas.
Flor-Al’s 372 Chandler St., Worcester, MA 01602 (508) 753-7005 aldeluca@flor-als.com • www.flor-als.com A creative and distinctive floral designer for classically elegant weddings and special occasions. Albert A. DeLuca AIFD, AAF.
Floral Elegance 204 Worcester St, North Grafton, MA 01536 (508) 839-9811 floralelegance@charter.net • www.graftonflowers.com The flowers spoke of romance and joy. Everyone could feel it. Your dreams, our designs. Beverly McClure AIFD, accredited by American Institute of Floral Designers.
290 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02115 (617) 585-1170 MRS@newenglandconservatory.edu www.newenglandconservatory.edu/MRS Bring the joy of music to any special event! NEC’s Music Referral Service provides artistic excellence and exceptional value. Perfect for any distinguished occasion.
Herbert E. Berg Florist (41)
Sonic DJ (78)
Holmes-Shusas Florists, Inc. (59)
Fitchburg, MA (978) 345-1354 brian@sonicdj.com • www.OurWeddingDJ.com Discover four things you absolutely must know before you book a DJ for your wedding, plus secrets to a stress-free reception at our Web site.
One Ararat St., Worcester, MA 01606 (508) 853-2550, (800) 638-1418 hshusas@aol.com • www.holmes-shusas.com The Bride’s Choice for 30 years. Wedding packages and freeze dried floral preservation. Call for a free color brochure. Visit us online.
19 Blackstone River Rd., Worcester, MA 01607 (508) 755-5888, (800) 383-2374 www.bergflorist.com Herbert E. Berg offers personalized floral designs and superior service. Come in and take advantage of our 70th anniversary specials!
31A Auburn St., Auburn, MA 01501 • (508) 721-2601 aanderson@youngstravel.com • www.youngstravel.com Exclusive desitination weddings and honeymoon programs. TOP 20 worldwide romance destinations. FREE personalized Web site. WORRY-FREE planning with our “certified specialists.” Voted Best of Worcester.
The Marty Gilman Band
KaBloom - Shrewsbury
(508) 752-4027 • mgband@charter.net www.martygilmanband.com Over 2000 great weddings! From 3–7 musicians, featuring male/female vocalists and horns. Swing, classic hits, Top 40. This band gets everyone up dancing!
Donation Services
50 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 799-0900 store637@kabloom.com • www.KaBloom.com/weddings Full service florist. Daily deliveries local and nationwide. Innovative and traditional floral designs. Weddings, showers, sympathy and special events.
Favors
I Do Foundation (103)
Colonial Candies (85)
1202 Delafield Place NW, Washington, DC 20011 (202) 841-1563 info@idofoundation.org • www.idofoundation.org From charitable favors to registries that give back, we give couples an opportunity to raise donations for charity(s) of their choice in a variety of ways.
47 Sugar Rd., Bolton, MA • (978) 779-6586 KJHebert71@aol.com • www.colonialcandies.com Handmade chocolate wedding and party favors. Beautiful and delicious. Wonderful hostess gifts for you guest’s hotel rooms. Personalizing available.
430 Franklin Village Dr., Franklin, MA 02038 (508) 335-1454 lpmfloral@yahoo.com • www.lpmfloral.com Beautiful, one-of-a kind silk wedding bouquets, using the highest quality silk flowers. Shipping is available. Weddings home décor - sympathy arrangements. Established 1993.
Joslin Diabetes Center
Finance
The Frugal Flower, Inc. (24)
1 Joslin Place, Development Office Boston, MA 02215 (617) 732-2412 catherine.marinello@joslin.harvard.edu • www.joslin.org Consider making a charitable donation to Joslin Diabetes Center in lieu of party favors and receive cards personalized by you for your guests!
St. Mary’s Credit Union Offices in Marlborough, Northborough and Hudson (866) 585-7642 memberserve@stmaryscu.org • www.stmaryscu.org Complete financial services institution offering mortgage programs, auto loans, equity products and our MatriMoney account; the new way to give a cash wedding gift.
736 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776 (800) 582-4390 www.frugalflower.com Providing flowers that reflect your personality and style, The Frugal Flower is a full service florist where “Elegance is Made Affordable.”
www.bridegroommag.com
Lorraine’s Petals & More (80)
BRIDE&GROOM
Winter 2008
125
Hair & Makeup
The Paper Store (76)
Lingerie
A Face to Remember
20 Main St., Acton, MA 01720 adv@thepaperstore.com • www.thepaperstore.com It is your day! The perfect Announcements, Save-the-Dates, Invitations, Gifts and Stationery await you at The Paper Store, with 21 locations in New England.
Juliet’s Lingerie Boutique
(508) 248-3665 info@afacetoremember.com • www.afacetoremember.com Specialists in traditional and airbrush makeup design. From natural to sophisticated, we design a look to reveal the true you! On site service throughout New England.
auditionErika P.O. Box 427, Wilmington, MA 01887 (978) 430-3857 erika@auditionErika.com • www.auditionErika.com auditionErika provides makeup and hairstyling services, as well as skincare and health/nutrition products. We come to you! Visit our Web site for pictures and information.
Biancaneve (50) 83 Perkins St., Suite #3, Boston, MA 02130 (617) 524-8976 marydinino@biancaneve.us • www.biancaneve.us Unveil the beautiful bride in you with exceptional makeup artistry by Biancaneve! Hands-on expertise with celebrities, models, Miss USA—and discerning brides like you.
D’Iorio’s Salon (78) 335A Plantation St., Worcester, MA (508) 756-7791 For the ultimate in chic weddings, let our salon staff coordinate your entire bridal party’s hairstyles and makeup. Even color coordinate your hair color, too.
Image Hair Salon (100) 533 Park Ave., Worcester, MA (508) 754-5588 Specializing in Wedding Day Image, hair styling, creative nails, foil highlighting, permanent waving & make-up. Human hair extensions. Featuring Motives customized makeup.
Honeymoon Spots Couples Resorts (109, 117) 1 (800) COUPLES www.couples.com Weddings, renewal of vows & honeymoons. “I Do”… and “We Do” everything to make a wedding at Couples Resorts picture perfect.
Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino (113) Oranjestad, Aruba (800) 421-8188 www.renaissancearuba.com Poised at the edge of paradise, but still in the heart of the action, rests an extraordinary retreat where relaxation is transcendent and pleasure is infinite.
Invitations C.C. Lowell (85)
The Print Shop 94 Fitzpatrick Rd., Grafton, MA 01519 (508) 839-6401 theprtshop@aol.com • www.formalaffair.com/printshop 25% - 50% off all invitations and accessories, including premier lines such as William Arthur and Encore, or FREE calligraphy. Over 25 years experience assisting bridal clients.
Jewelry Goldstein, Swank & Gordon (37) Auburn Mall, Auburn, MA (508) 832-9994 Solomon Pond Mall, Marlboro, MA (508) 624-9994 Exquisite fine jewelry and Swiss watches since 1899. Capture the moments of a lifetime with creations by David Yurman, Mikimoto and other acclaimed designers.
Sachs Jewelers (2) 180 Route 9 East, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 792-2300 www.sachsjewelers.com Specializing in diamond engagement rings and wedding bands. Our showroom boasts Worcester County’s largest selection of diamonds and the latest styles, brands, and custom-designed bridal jewelry.
Limousines A.A. Transportation Co., Inc. (97) 605 Hartford Tpke. (Rte. 20), Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 791-9100 www.aatransportation.com A full-service transportation company. From exotic 20-passenger Super Stretch SUVs to eight-passenger Lincolns. We have the limo to fit your needs.
Able Limousine, Inc. (30) (508) 435-3903, (800) 499-3903 www.ablelimousineinc.com
Eric’s Limousine Service (26) 1048 Southbridge St., Worcester, MA 01610 (508) 987-1118, (508) 753-7044, (888) 987-1118 www.ericslimo.com Let our qualified staff of experienced chauffeurs take your special day to a higher level with our exceptional attention to detail. Featuring all new Lincolns.
Gray’s Limousine (1, 39)
258 Park Ave., Worcester, MA 01609 (508) 757-7713 www.cclowellinvite.com Custom-designed, unique invitations to reflect YOUR style. Hundreds of decorative papers and stationery; fun, knowledgeable, creative staff! Visit our store or Web site for ideas.
P.O. Box 760, Boylston, MA 01505 (508) 756-7477, (508) 869-6365 www.grayslimo.com Specializing in weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties and airport transportation. Featuring Rolls Royces and other passenger limousines with uniformed chauffeurs. Visit our showroom.
Celebrations! Invitations (105)
Limo Affair (35, 41, 49, 51)
12 Stonybrook Lane, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 845-3676 celebrations@townisp.com www.celebrations-invitations.com Choose from our extensive line of engagement and wedding announcements, invitations and favors. Mention this ad and receive a 20% discount.
Love Logos (80) customerservice@love-logos.com www.love-logos.com Initials Entwined Everlasting in Time. Love Logos are a perfect way to personalize your wedding day or any special occasion.
126 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
208 Main Street, Oxford MA 01540 (508) 731-0226 admin@limoaffair.net • www.limoaffair.net Limo Affair provides from 6- to 14-passenger limousines throughout MA, CT, RI and NH, as well as 18- to 22-passenger stretch SUVs.
Professional Limousine Service (8) 31 River St., Millbury MA 01527 (508) 581-8800 www.professional-limousine.com Our wedding service is for four hours. We also offer free honeymoon transportation. Call for details. Serving Worcester County since 1947.
www.bridegroommag.com
381 Park Ave., Worcester, MA 01610 (508) 754-0056 Specializing in bridal trousseaus, Felina bra & panty sets, Mary Green peignoirs and Le Mysterie seamless bustier for the perfect fit. Host a lingerie party at the store.
Mortgage Sundeck Mortgage, Inc. (106) Markens Benoit 23 Briarwood Rd., Rutland, MA 01453 (800) 760-0695 markens17@hotmail.com We take the hassle out of getting a home loan! Over 300 lenders to choose from. We make finding the lowest rates easy for you.
Officiants Massachusetts Justices of the Peace Association, Inc. (62) P.O. Box 784, Wilmington, MA 01887 (800) 663-8867 mjpa@mjpa.org • www.mjpa.org The MJPA is a state-wide association whose members are appointed to solemnize civil weddings (ceremonies) throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Spiro J. Efstathiou, Justice of the Peace P.O. Box 2279, Worcester, MA 01613 (508) 826-7775 spiroje@yahoo.com Justice of the Peace for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Your connection to fine jewelry, catering and function halls, floral design and invitations.
Photography AVR Photography (118) P.O. Box 452, Chelmsford, MA (978) 250-8117 www.AdvanceVideo.com Since 1985 AVR Photography has been providing countless couples with precious memories to hold forever. Starting at $795 video or $895 photography. Call (978) 250-8117
Christopher Wakeen Photojournalist (104) 178 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605 (508) 753-8920 chris@wakeenphotography.com www.wakeenphotography.com “Chris is more than a ‘photographer.’ His artful, creative images captured the joy and beauty of our wedding day.” –Mr. & Mrs. JN, Worcester, MA.
Doros Photography (88) 315 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 755-9213 www.dorosphotography.com At Doros Photography, it is our goal to make you extremely happy... not just satisfied. With over 10 years of experience using photojournalistic and portrait style.
Erika Sidor Wedding Photography (48, 80) 6 Briarcliff Street, Worcester, MA 01602 (508) 459-1251 erikasidor@yahoo.com • www.erikasidor.com Every wedding is an adventure. Let me capture yours! Reasonable rates, two shooters, you get to keep CDs and proof book.
Express Photography Studios (106)
Visions by Baker Photography (123)
Tuxedos
593 Park Ave., Worcester, MA 01603 (508) 795-0036 www.expressphotographystudios.com Offering a full service studio, on location event and wedding photography throughout New England. We create custom digital images to last a lifetime.
61 Harvard St., Worcester, MA 01609 (877) 901-7468 visionsphoto@usa.net • www.visionsbybaker.com If you’re not thrilled with your images, I’ll pay you for the trouble! Certified professional photographer and member of the BBB. Your memories, treasured forever!
Bonardi’s Formalwear (40)
HJM Photography (12)
Pre-wedding Services
107 Elmwood St., Auburn, MA 01501 (508) 753-2230 www.hjmphotography.com The ultimate in professional photography. We offer a full service studio and in-house photography lab for customizing your wedding photos. Call for an appointment.
(508) 852-3048 It is a weekend designed to give couples planning marriage an opportunity for an intensive and honest look at their commitment to one another.
Les Gardner Photography
Reception Facilities
113 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (508) 347-7177 lesgardnerphotography@verizon.net www.lesgardner-photography.com At Les Gardner Photography, our sincere desire is to capture the romance, the cherished moments and the special love you have for each other.
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Media Photo (92) 63 Auburn St., Auburn, MA 01501 (508) 832-4716 mediafoto@aol.com Save your money for the honeymoon! Affordable wedding packages. Studio located in Auburn, MA. We love what we do and so do our clients.
Rick English Photographer (91) 282 Burncoat St., Worcester, MA 01606 (774) 239-5753 rephotog@aol.com • www.RickEnglishPhotographer.com Photography is the art form that links our most intimate feelings and emotions with our family, friends and generations to come!
RussRo Photography (33) 365 Main St., Oxford, MA 01540 (508) 987-5249, (800) 287-5249 www.russro.com Yours for the day, memories for a lifetime. Award-winning photographer specializing in personal service. Free travel throughout New England.
Tammy Tatro Fine Art Photography (83) (508) 757-0731 www.tammytatro.com Wedding photography naturally captured with an unstaged look. Specializing in color and black & white imagery.
The Wedding Photographers (84) 50 Elm St., Suite 7B, Worcester, MA 180 Boulder Dr., Suite 114, Fitchburg, MA (508) 757-4850 theweddingphotographerscm@yahoo.com www.weddingphotographersNE.com If you’re looking for creative photojournalistic and classic wedding photography, see The Wedding Photographers - now at two locations in Worcester and Fitchburg.
TLM Photography Studios (16) 67 Buena Vista St., Devens, MA 01434 (978) 772-8567 brides@tlmstudios.com • www.tlmstudios.com We will capture your wedding day as it naturally unfolds. Creating a wedding collection you will treasure for a lifetime. Call now for an appointment.
Tom Flaherty Photography
Engaged Encounter (63)
Rentals A Perfect Setting (3) (888) 830-7887 info@aperfectsetting.com • www.aperfectsetting.com A Perfect Setting provides the quality wedding and party rentals that let you produce memorable events, styled with your personal taste.
Elegant Linens Ltd. (57) 296 Providence Rd., S. Grafton, MA (508) 839-9332 www.elegantlinensltd.com If you’re planning a wedding, call Elegant Linens today for an appointment. See the difference our special touch can make for your special day.
WEDDING SPECIALISTS Worcester 179 Highland St. • (508) 754-4036 Auburn: 482 Southbridge St. • (508) 832-7579 Sturbridge: Rte. 20 West • (508) 347-3461 Milford: 156 Main St. • (508) 478-0466 Framingham: 1261 Worcester Rd. • (508) 875-6159 Nationwide Service call (800) 752-4036 www.bonardis.com Dressing men for special occasions since 1923. Sizes infant to 71 in stock! We take the worry out of looking your best on your wedding day.
Men’s Wearhouse (27) www.mwtux.com With over 1,000 locations nationwide, including all Men’s Wearhouse stores, ordering, picking up and returning a tuxedo has never been easier.
Videography Davagian Video Productions 612 Beacon Park Rd., Webster, MA (508) 865-4145 davagianvideo@yahoo.com • www.davagianvideo.com Featuring three and four camera productions with custom DVDs, we’ll preserve the events and emotions of your wedding day digitally. Twelve years experience. Demo available.
Excel Video Productions (508) 786-2989 • www.excelvideopro.com Your dress, the aisle, your first kiss, your first dance, the cake... Preserve the event of your lifetime on crystal clear DVD. Free samples available upon request.
Encore Party Rentals (21)
Majestic Video Productions
90 Cherry St., Hudson, MA 01749 (978) 562-0022 sbuxton@encorepartyrentals.com www.encorepartyrentals.com Encore Party Rentals is the largest full service special event rental company in Central Massachusetts. Making sure that your event goes smoothly is our business.
P.O. Box 148, Winchendon, MA (978) 297-2150 info@majesticvideoproductions.com www.majesticvideoproductions.com You want your wedding day to last forever. We will lay out every detail. Capturing your moments will be intimate but unobtrusive. Call for an appointment.
Restaurants
Mark Willand Video Productions
Piccadilly Pub (84) Rte. 12, Auburn Rte. 85, Marlboro Rte. 28, N. Reading Rte. 20, Sturbridge Rte. 9, Worcester Rte. 5, West Springfield Rte. 1A Dedham
Rte. 140, Foxboro Tri-Boro Plaza, N. Attleboro Rte. 28, Randolph Rte. 38, Tewksbury Connector Rd., Westboro Rtes. 140 & 495, Franklin Rte. 128 Waltham
Shoes Elegance by Carbonneau (81) 315 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 292 West Boylston St., Worcester, MA (508) 752-0431 • www.elegancebycarbonneau.com Largest selection of shoes & tiaras/veils. Unbeatable prices on: jewelry, engrave-able gifts, headpieces, veils, invitations, and toasting glasses. M–F, 9am-6pm; Sat., 9am–4pm.
Shoes to Dye For (17) 1 Apple Hill, Suite #5, Natick, MA 01760 (508) 653-6063 dyeable@aol.com • www.shoestodyefor.com Over 180 styles in-stock of bridal dyeable and evening shoes. Custom dyeing on premises. Designers: Kenneth Cole, Nina, Dyeables, Coloriffics, Touch-Ups, Colorful Creations and Grace.
31 Marion Ave., Millbury, MA 01527 (508) 831-7700 tom@tomflaherty.com • www.tomflaherty.com Tom Flaherty Photography - New England’s premier wedding photographer. Photographing over 30 weddings per year utilizing many styles from journalistic to contemporary.
P.O. Box 1261, Douglas, MA 01516 • (508) 341-5860 mark@bridevideo.com • www.bridevideo.com Let the extraordinary talent of a Fox Television Producer make your wedding video a masterpiece. Unobtrusive and affordable. Check our Web site for reasonable prices.
McDonald Productions Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 845-9101 • mcdonald@townisp.com A professional videographer with over 20 years experience using the latest digital technology to capture the magic of your wedding. HIGH DEFINITION (HDTV) now available.
Wedding Consulting New England Nuptials (76) 27 Prospect St., Auburn, MA 01501 (508) 832-4868 christine@nenuptials.com • www.nenuptials.com Dedicated to making your dream wedding a reality without the stress. Our focus is on personalizing the details to reflect the style of each couple.
Wedding Internet Services BrideGroomMag.com (45) BRIDE & GROOM™ Magazine’s first official Web site! Log on for sneak peeks at upcoming issues and to find out where to get your free copy.
OriginalWeddingExpo.com (28, 29) Your connection to finding the best Wedding Expos. 2-for-1 passes available for download. Comprehensive Planning Guide features everything from bridal shops to videographers.
www.bridegroommag.com
BRIDE&GROOM
Winter 2008
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PARTING S HOT
ALEEZA STERN and GUY GUYER Ocean View Inn and Resort Gloucester, MA August 2006 Photo by Benoit Photography
128 Winter 2008 BRIDE&GROOM
www.bridegroommag.com
Tom Frost / SAVE Photography
MECHANICS HALL Unforgettable.
321 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608 Tel: 508-752-5608 Fax: 508-754-8442 info @ mechanicshall.org www.mechanicshall.org ■
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BUILT IN 1857 ~ NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES
Shouldn’t your true love be rewarded? Join Macy's Wedding & Gift Registry Star Rewards Program today! Discover the first registry with this unique rewards program. At Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry, you earn 10% Rewards on eligible Macy’s Star Rewards Card† purchases throughout the store and 5% Rewards on eligible gift purchases your guests make from your registry. Plus, Macy’s Completion Program will save you 10% on your remaining registry items. It's easy to enroll and start earning rewards. Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry is a coast-to-coast love affair! We provide couples and their guests with the ultimate registry experience with over 800 stores nationwide, a toll-free number, 1-800-568-8865, and 24-hour online services!
†Subject to credit approval. See a Bridal Consultant or Sales Associate for details. Receive 10% Rewards on your Macy's Star Rewards Card net eligible purchases you make from the day you enroll till your wedding day. Receive 5% Rewards on net eligible purchases (excluding Completion purchases) made from your registry starting the day you enroll up to 90 days after your wedding day. To enroll, create a quality bridal registry preference list, enroll in person with a bridal consultant and have or open a valid Macy's Star Rewards Card. Requirements for a quality registry vary. Macy's reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time and will provide thirty (30) days notice to all participating couples. Offer cannot be combined with any other Reward program. Rewards are presented in the form of an electronic gift card. Reward Card expires six (6) months from the date of issue. Cosmetics, Fragrances, Furniture, Mattress & Rug purchases, Services, Leased Departments (including, but not limited to Beauty Salon, Alterations, Interior Design, Bridal Gowns, Furs, Children's Shoes, Maternity and Food), Electronic Gift Card purchases, sales tax, shipping fees, gift wrap fees and other credit marketing offers are not eligible for Rewards. Employees of Federated Department Stores, Inc. and its operating subsidiaries are not eligible to participate in this program.