Weddings 2024
Setting the Stage Providing a comfortable, beautiful wedding venue
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Booking a venue is one of the first things you’ll do as you start planning your wedding. It’s a big decision in the planning process because it’s the place where you’ll host most or all of your celebration. Your venue needs to fit your style, date, location and budget. But there are even more factors to consider, such as practical details, conveniences and guest comforts. While these considerations may seem small, they can be significant if you haven’t planned for them. Setting the Stage | 11
2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
Weddings
Vintage Vows Add a touch of retro sparkle to your big day
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With today’s rapid technological advancements and ever-evolving trends, the charm of bygone wedding traditions is making a resounding comeback. Though many wedding ceremonies are full of innovations, the desire to reconnect with the past has sparked a revival of vintage wedding traditions. From classic attire to sentimental rituals, couples are infusing their celebrations with a touch of yesteryear’s charm.
Margaret Hastings Creators.com With today’s rapid technological advancements and everevolving trends, the charm of bygone wedding traditions is making a resounding come-
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back. Though many wedding ceremonies are full of innovations, the desire to reconnect with the past has sparked a revival of vintage wedding traditions. From classic attire to sentimental rituals, couples are infusing their celebrations with a touch of yesteryear’s charm.
Timeless Attire: Gowns and Suits with a Retro Twist One of the most striking elements of a vintage-inspired wedding is the attire. Brides are stepping back in time, opting for dresses that harken back to the glamour of the 1920s or the simplicity of the 1950s. Lace, satin and delicate embroidery take center stage as brides don elegant gowns reminiscent of iconic fashion eras. Grooms, too, are donning tailored suits that pay homage to the sophistication of bygone decades. A return to classic styles adds a touch of nostalgia to the celebration, creating a visual feast for guests.
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 3
Weddings centerpieces, every element is carefully curated to transport guests to a different time. Polaroid cameras are making a comeback, allowing couples to capture candid moments in Branding Concepts The devil is in the details, and instant film, creating tangible Family Dental Group couples are paying meticulous memories that will be cherattention to vintage-inspired ished for years to come. Concept 2 | Revised decor. From gramophones In the midst of a rapidly Main Logo: playing timeless melodies changing world, couples are to tables adorned with retro finding solace and joy in the DENTAL
timeless traditions of the past. Embracing retro wedding traditions not only adds a unique and personal touch to the celebration but also creates a sense of continuity with the generations that came before. Most of all, they leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who are part of their special day.
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This meaningful gesture not only adds a personal touch to the wedding but also creates a cherished keepsake that will stand the test of time.
Dance Through the Decades: Swing, Jive and Foxtrot The dance floor becomes a time machine as couples and their guests dance through the decades, embracing the energetic and rhythmic beats of bygone eras. Swing, jive and foxtrot are making a comeback as couples take dance lessons to master the classic steps that defined the dance floors of the 1940s and 1950s. The joyous atmosphere of these dances
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Vintage Venues: Setting the Stage for Romance Choosing a venue that echoes the charm of the past is another way couples are infusing their weddings with a sense of nostalgia. Historic ballrooms, charming gardens and vintage estates provide the perfect backdrop for a retroinspired celebration. These venues transport guests to a different era, creating an ambiance that captures the romance of times gone by. The classic architecture contributes to an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary.
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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
Weddings
Stephanie G creates one-of-a-kind designs Family heirlooms sparkle in custom wedding jewelry
Stephanie G.
By Kathryn Acciari Contributing Writer
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This year’s bride and groom are infusing a more carefree attitude into their big day while also involving family legacy. Shifts in wedding jewelry trends reflect a preference for personalized pieces, and one common thread is the weaving of family heirloom pieces into the wedding plan. NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com
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“What’s old is new in bridal this year, and heirloom jewelry is seeing a resurgence,” said Stephanie G., owner of Stephanie G. Jewelry in Hopkinton, who is a fourth generation jeweler renowned for her custom designs. “There is a lot of emotion and sentiment that comes with family jewelry — love, loss, remembrance. Jewelry helps us remember loved-ones through the creation of unique, custom designs,” which is a specialty service at Stephanie G. Any existing engagement ring can be matched and the perfect wedding band created. Many clients send pictures of their engagmente rings, or samples of what they want before their appointment. Stephanie G. advises that when using heirloom pieces, the gemstones be kept because metals eventually wear down. Often, she can replicate a piece if the metal has deteriorated. She is able to use 2-D and 3-D CAD work for jewelry design along with wax molds. These technologies allow customers to envision their piece before it is completed. “Frequently, we will take a larger piece, such as a grandmother’s necklace, and divide it into smaller pieces among the members of the family. For example, we may take a necklace that contains multiple gems and make a ring or bracelet for each woman in the family,” she said. “It’s a wonderful way to share elements from heirloom pieces and make the wedding day that much more personal and sentimental.” Colorful gemstones are gaining popularity. Another trend that incorporates heirloom jewelry is the two-stone engagement ring, called “toi et moi,” which means you and me. In this design, a diamond may be paired with another gemstone of significant meaning. Jewelry selection typically complements the overall style of a wedding. Whether vintage or modern, that style travels into the dress and the overall design of the event. When it comes to selecting jewelry for
weddings, Stephanie G. recommends that members of the bridal party make time to try on different pieces in person. Stephanie has become one of the largest bridal centers in the area and has a wide range of engagement rings and wedding bands to try on and see right in the store. “Trying something on is much more helpful than purchasing online. It’s one thing to look in a magazine or online, but frequently people come in to try on a specific piece and realize that they don’t love it,” she said. “We give them time to explore other ideas and help them pinpoint what they are looking for.” Other trends in bridal jewelry this year are the return of shaped diamonds and a preference for yellow gold. “We are seeing more simplistic ring designs,” said Stephanie G. “Pear-shaped diamonds are back in style, and while the halo is still popular, now there is a trend for a hidden halo around a single diamond. It looks like a classic single from the top, but the halo is visible from the side.” Also popular are lab-grown diamonds, which are more budget-friendly but just as high-quality as earth-mined diamonds. “A lab-grown diamond is grown from the seed of another diamond. With labgrown, you get a larger stone
for less money,” she said. “These have become popular with couples who are in their second marriage and want a larger diamond at a great price. Lab-grown diamonds are also conflict-free, which appeals to many brides and grooms.” Stephanie G.has an extensive selection of bridal jewelry in her Hopkinton showroom and offers one-on-one appointments to her customers. This lessens the customers’ waiting time, and she has found that people enjoy the individualized attention with her and her staff. “You want to have time to brainstorm ideas and explore them. Once we conceptualize how we might reconstruct a special keepsake, we can create a memorable, timeless piece that can continue to be handed down from generation to generation,” she said. “Our consultations are scheduled by appointment Tuesdays though Firdays, with walk-ins welcome on Saturdays. Saturday appointments are also available. For one special hour, the customer gets a lot of attention. It’s all about them,” said Stephanie G. Bridal and wedding consultations can be scheduled by phone at 508-435-4444, by text at 619-999-5954 or online at at stephaniegjewelers.com.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 5
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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
Weddings
Tee Up Your Wedding Local golf courses make excellent choices for wedding ceremonies. By Evan Walsh Reporter
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It’s almost Valentine’s Day, love is in the air, and it’s
Weddings, Showers & Engagement Parties
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the perfect time to plan your dream wedding.
Although couples have an overwhelming amount of options to consider when planning their special day, golf courses and country clubs — particularly local golf courses — make excellent venues for wedding ceremonies. First, and most obvious, golf courses and country clubs offer some of the most stunning scenery around — perfect for the picturesque wedding many desire. The lush greenery, rolling hills, well-maintained grounds, and delightful flowers set an incredible scene. Instead of the “hustle and bustle” of a big-city wedding, guests can bask in a golf course’s natural beauty. The setting is serene and spacious. “Juniper Hill is an excellent location in Central Massachusetts. With 240 acres of varied terrain and wildlife, Juniper Hill is the perfect place. Our staff is friendly and helpful — and always willing to go the extra step for you,” said Juniper Hill Golf Course General Manager Dudley Darling. “Why wouldn’t someone want to get married here?” Beyond the natural beauty, there’s something special about golf-course ceremonies. The country-club environment is formal but not stuffy; the professional yet easygoing nature of the golf course gives ceremonies an experience that expertly balances comfort and elegance. “We have a naturally beautiful place — you look out on these grounds and it’s really beautiful and peaceful. When it comes to weddings, that’s
Golf courses are an attractive option for marriage ceremonies. This picture is from Juniper Hill Golf Course in Northborough. (Photo/Courtesy)
part of the package that people are looking for. You’re out in nature — our grounds are gorgeous,” said Cyprian Keyes General Manager Dave Frem. “Golf courses provide a beautiful backdrop for photos,” said AnnMarie Mong of Highfields Golf & Country Club. “Highfields Golf & Country Club boasts magnificent views of our perfectly manicured golf course and the Worcester Hills, with a private patio overlooking our 18th hole.” Golf courses and country clubs have friendly, experienced, and professional staff able to help couples handle logistics and make planning the ceremony stress free. Such venues may offer culinary teams, food packages and support staff dedicated to coordinating the wedding. The staff are ready for anything, allowing the couple to live in the moment. “The combination of natural beauty, versatile spaces, and professional services make golf courses an appealing choice for couples looking to celebrate
their special occasions… Marlborough Country Club has… a seamless planning experience with the same dedicated coordinator from booking to the day of the event. Our commitment ensures that our brides and grooms feel a sense of kinship,” Marlborough Country Club Manager Charlotte Hillery said. And it’s not just the wedding ceremony; rehearsals, anniversary celebrations, and other events can be held at the same location. Whereas some weddings have multiple venues, leading to significant back and forth for guests, a golf course can accommodate just about every moment. A country club’s flexibility allows for less-complicated planning and can make a wedding more cost effective. Even for nonwedding-related ceremonies, a golf course is an attractive option. Some golf courses can make your wedding incredible regardless of the weather. “The grounds are always immaculate and provide a
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 7
Weddings beautiful backdrop for photos, no matter the occasion, but primarily for weddings. Throughout the four seasons, there are always gorgeous locations available. One advantage with Charter Oak is that we have so many outdoor ‘covered’ areas available, so if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you are still able to get stunning photos,” Charter Oaks Director of Sales Joanne Duganiero said. There are many wedding options available for couples, but consider local golf courses and country clubs when making your choice. The Community Advocate has listed Central Massachusetts locations to the right.
Regional golf courses Juniper Hill Golf Course is located at 202 Brigham St. in Northborough. For more information, please visit https://www.juniperhillgc.com/. Marlborough Country Club is located at 200 Concord Road in Marlborough. For more information, please visit https://marlboroughcc.com/. Charter Oak Country Club is located at 394 Chestnut St. in Hudson. For more information, please visit https:// www.charteroakcc.com/.
Highfields Golf & Country Club is located at 42 Magill Drive in Grafton. For more information, please visit https://www.highfieldsgolfcc.com/Club/Scripts/Home/ home.asp. Cyprian Keyes Golf Club is located at 284 East Temple Street in Boylston. For more information, please visit https://www.cypriankeyes.com/. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
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8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
Weddings
Culinary Creations Picking the right caterer to turn culinary dreams into reality
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Planning the culinary aspect of your wedding is a delicate dance of flavors, styles and accommodations. The caterer you choose plays a pivotal role, transforming your vision into a memorable dining experience for all. Food is the backbone of any event, so it’s important to closely.
Step No. 1: Clarify Your Culinary Vision Before approaching caterers, refine your culinary vision. Consider not only the type of cuisine but also the style of service — whether it’s an elegant sit-down dinner, a laid-back buffet or a trendy food truck affair. The more specific you are, the easier it becomes to find a caterer aligned with your unique preferences.
Create a mood board or Pinterest page with images that reflect your desired ambiance and culinary style. Share this with potential caterers to ensure you’re on the same page.
Step No. 2: Be Conscious of Others’ Dietary Needs Take a meticulous approach to dietary restrictions. Compile a detailed list of guest preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-
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Weddings with potential caterers. Package deals often include services beyond just food, such as staff, linens and tableware. Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients can add a touch of freshness while contributing to cost savings. Opt for a mid-week wedding or an off-peak season, as some caterers offer discounted rates during these times.
Step No. 6: Embrace Flexibility and Communication Select a caterer who not only excels in the kitchen but is also adaptable and communicative. Discuss potential changes in guest count or unforeseen dietary restrictions, ensuring your caterer has contingency plans in place. Create a detailed timeline for the day, including when the caterer should arrive, set up and serve, to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Step No. 7: Scrutinize Reviews and Recommendations:
free and nut-free considerations. A seasoned caterer will not only accommodate these needs but can also provide creative and delicious alternatives. Ask caterers about their experience with various dietary restrictions and request examples of successfully executed menus catering to diverse needs.
Step No. 3: Curate a Diverse Menu To please all palates, opt for a caterer offering a diverse menu. Explore a mix of cuisines, balancing classic favorites with adventurous options. A wellthought-out menu provides a memorable experience for your guests and showcases the culinary prowess of your chosen caterer. Consider incorporating interactive food stations or themed bars to add an element of fun and variety to your reception.
Step No. 5: Declare Your Budget and Stick to It Clearly define your budget and communicate it transparently
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Step No. 4: Try It Before You Buy It Tasting sessions are not just a formality but a crucial step in ensuring your chosen caterer meets your expectations. Use this opportunity to not only savor the flavors but also discuss potential modifications or customizations. Pay attention to the quality of ingredients and the presentation of dishes. Bring along a trusted friend or family member to provide a second perspective and gather valuable feedback.
Thoroughly research your potential caterers by delving into online reviews and testimonials. Seek recommendations from friends or wedding planners who have experienced their services firsthand. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or examples of past weddings they have successfully catered. Reach out directly to past clients for a candid perspective on their experience, paying attention to factors beyond the food, such as professionalism and flexibility. By meticulously navigating through this process, you’ll not only choose a proper caterer but will collaboratively craft a culinary experience that elevates your wedding celebration to new heights. After all, exceptional food is not just a feast for the taste buds but a cornerstone of cherished memories.
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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
Weddings
Dress Code Download White tie, black tie, formal, semiformal, dress casual, casual — what does it all mean? By Kristen Castillo Creators.com
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Received a wedding invitation and unsure about what to wear? You’re not the only one. It’s challenging to decipher the wedding dress code these days.
White tie, black tie, beach formal, dressy casual? What do all the terms mean and do they mean the same thing to everyone? “The dress code is all dependent on the couple and their personalities and also on where the wedding/reception is being held: under a tent, on a farm, golf course, hotel, castle, etc.,” says photographer Alice Bil, of studioEPIC photography, who has attended and covered more than 300 weddings as both a guest and a photographer. She says couples should specify the dress code on the invitation and guests should follow the protocol. “When in doubt, you may want to consider asking for more information,” say sister designers Valerie and Stephanie Chin of Val Stefani, reminding guests not to directly ask the bride or groom, who are busy. Instead ask a member of the wedding party or a family member, since those individuals likely know the wedding style. Here’s what you need to know:
White Tie This style is the most formal. “Whip out your best stuff ... purchase or rent it for the evening,” says Bil, explaining guests should dress like they’re meeting the president or the queen. “This is going to be a big event.” Men should wear formal tuxedos, dress shoes and even gloves. Women are expected to wear floor-length gowns, and nothing too revealing. Consider getting professional hair and makeup. White-tie events are typically held at government buildings, mansions and hotels.
Black Tie Treat black tie like a red-carpet event. “Pretend you are going to the Oscars or opera,” says Bil, who calls this her favorite wedding style.
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Guys should wear tuxedos. Women should dress up in gowns, which can be eye-catching and designer styles. “As a guest invited to a black-tie wedding, you should opt for a formal gown in a neutral color,” say the Chins. “You can also wear a chic cocktail dress or a long evening gown.” Still not sure what to wear? “When in doubt, picture what would look appropriate next to a tuxedo,” they say. Black-tie weddings are often held at large venues including high-end hotels and art galleries.
Black-Tie Optional or Formal
wedding calls for vibrant colors and light-weight fabrics.
Dress Casual This style is seen at outdoor venues, as well as afternoon weddings. Guests can wear jeans if they want, but dress them up with nice blazers and sharp shoes. Still keep Bil’s advice in mind: “Dress as if you are going to meet the parents or go on a nice date,” she says. “You still want to look nice.”
Casual
“Pretend you are going to your prom again,” says Bil, who says that formal is the most popular wedding dress code. It’s often seen at weddings held at banquet halls and hotels. Women wear dresses, including shorter styles, if desired. Men don tuxes or dark suits and dress shoes.
“Anything goes, as long as you are comfortable, but obviously presentable,” says Bil, who explains with this dress code, even shorts are OK as long as they’re clean. Still it’s smart to study the wedding’s environment when deciding how to dress. Casual attire is typically suited for outdoor weddings, including boat weddings and tented affairs on a private property.
Semi-Formal
Beach Formal
This style has a slightly laid-back vibe. “The important part, again, is not to aim too informal,” say the Chins. “And this means jeans, no matter how nice, are simply a no.” Ties are optional for guys. Ladies typically wear dresses. “Clothes can be comfortable, but still presentable,” says Bil, who generally sees this style at smaller venues such as restaurant receptions, bars and golf courses. With semi-formal, the time of the wedding dictates what to wear. “If the ceremony and reception are later in the evening then wear darker formal hues for an evening affair,” say the Chins, who note a daytime
Just because a wedding is at the beach doesn’t necessarily mean it’s casual. Dress up but remember the party involves “sun, sand and water,” say the Chins, who suggest women wear dressy sundresses with shoes that are beach-ready, such as dressy flat sandals or espadrilles. Men should wear lightweight suits; ties are optional. No flip-flops! Kristen Castillo is a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist. An editor and writer for wedding magazines, she’s written hundreds of wedding articles, as well as an e-book, “Weddings on a Dime.” COPYRIGHT 2018 CREATORS.COM
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 11
Weddings
Setting the Stage Providing a comfortable, beautiful wedding venue She says couples should ask the venue about plans for stormy weather, too. Ask things like do they have tents to protect guests outside? Are there indoor alternatives? Will a staff member keep track of guests’ things, such as umbrellas and rain jackets? Have a plan if your location is cold or windy as well. Does your venue have heaters you can use or rent to keep guests warm? Tell guests to pack a sweater or jacket. Consider having a basket of blankets for guests to use if it gets chilly.
Special Considerations Accessibility is a big factor to consider if you have elderly or disabled guests. Envision every aspect of the ceremony and Setting the Stage | from page 1
“Because your guests are a big part of why you’re having a ceremony, it’s important to consider how comfortable and happy they will be about attending your wedding,” says Whitney Cox, wedding c o o rd i n a t o r a t Ve g a s Weddings. “Getting in the guest’s mindset will make you a better host and make your wedding more enjoyable for you and everyone else.
Mark Your Calendar Consider when and where you’ll be hosting your fete and how that schedule might impact your party and your guests. Make sure there aren’t many other events happening at the same time or place. High demand can often result in higher than usual prices and that could mean it’ll be too expensive for some of your guests to attend your wedding. Cox recommends checking the local calendar of events. “You and your guests could have trouble finding affordable rooms, flights or local transportation if there’s a major music festival or business conference happening in the same city as your venue,” she says.
Timing Matters Wedding planner Meggie Francisco of Meggie Francisco Events advises her clients to consider sunset time and venue access timelines. “If you envision an outdoor wedding in the winter, but the venue won’t let you in until 5 p.m., you may be marrying in the dark,” she says. “Even if it seems like you have enough time to have your ceremony before sunset, you might not be allowing enough time for photos afterward.”
Weather Check out what the weather is typically like during your wedding week or month. If it’s hot during the day and you want an outside ceremony, consider getting hitched in the morning or late afternoon. Help guests stay comfy by giving them fans, cold water and sunglasses. Don’t forget the sunscreen. “Ensure there is some sort of contingency plan in the event of inclement weather, especially if you’re planning to host part of your wedding day outdoors,” says Karen Norian of Simply Eloped, a company that helps couples plan their elopement.
reception from the perspective of a guest with accessibility concerns. Are there ramps and elevators? Are restrooms nearby? Is there a place guests can rest if needed? Don’t forget to think about how guests will get to your wedding, such as by car or shuttle. Which airport will out of town guests fly into? Does your venue have on-site accommodations and can they offer a group discount?
Share the Plan Keep guests informed of your wedding plans by creating a wedding website with all the information guests will need. “When your guests feel informed, it will help them feel more comfortable so they enjoy your celebration to the fullest,” says Francisco.
12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024
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