Bridal Guide

OUTDOOR WEDDINGS NATURE CAN PROVIDE THE PERFECT SETTING

CAPITAL NEWSPAPERS | 2014

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

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How to Hold an Outdoor Wedding Nature can provide the perfect setting for the most elegant and beautiful weddings imaginable, and choosing the right accessories and supplies for your wedding will only add to nature’s splendor.

Holding an outdoor wedding takes forethought, creativity and lots of planning.

If you take the right steps ahead of time, you can pull off a breathtaking event that lets the outdoors — and all the seasonal beauty that goes with it — add to the atmosphere of your wedding and reception.

Choosing a Location Picking the location for your outdoor wedding is only limited to your imagination.

For an upscale event, consider holding it outside a mansion or on the grounds of a luxury hotel. These wedding venues will add an air of sophistication and style, whether at a private residence or at a location that specializes in social gatherings, such as country clubs.

Some of the best outdoor weddings, though, aren’t even close to a building and don’t take place on manicured lawns. They take advantage of Mother Nature’s most gorgeous settings, wherever they may be.

Parks, gardens and farms each provide totally different settings and moods for your

event, ranging from rustic to graceful. You can also let the changing seasons become a part of your wedding theme, taking advantage of the rich hues of fall or the vibrant colors of spring.

Using the changing palette of the seasons to complement your wedding decor can make for a wedding that you and your guests will never forget.

Start With the Tent A tent is the centerpiece of virtually all outdoor weddings, and fortunately tents are available to rent in all sorts of styles and sizes, often with walls available to provide some protection from the wind.

Some of the most popular tents at weddings have classy, sweeping rooflines that look glamorous and provide plenty of space for guests and activities. And you should consider ways to further customize the look of your tent to match your wedding decor, including options for colorful accents where possible.

Plan for Weather No matter what time of year you want to hold your outdoor wedding, you’ve always got to plan for contingencies with the weather.

Your clothing choices can help make you and your guests more comfortable and add to the elegance of your outdoor wedding. Both

the bridal gown and the wedding party’s attire should be appropriate for the time of year and ideally will have options — such as heavy jackets if the weather turns unseasonably cold or removable sleeves for hot days — that will keep things flexible enough to match lastminute changes in the weather.

Heating and cooling systems should be carefully selected to match the weather conditions and the size of your space, helping to keep your guests feeling their best. Holding your wedding outdoors doesn’t have to mean you’re subject to the whims of mother nature.

Guest Comfort Keeping your guests comfortable should be a key part of your planning, and good communication can help with that. Your guests should know something about the setting so they can plan what footwear to choose, for example.

A good rental company can be an invaluable resource for providing a comfortable, stylish outdoor setting for your guests. Not only will they have a selection of tents to choose from, but they can provide tables, chairs, coordinated linen and much more.

Lighting will play a major role in setting the tone for your wedding, from classic

chandeliers to more contemporary lanterns, strand lights and accent lighting. And the accessories you choose, from dance floors to the decor, can help your guests have a wonderful time while enjoying their natural surroundings.

The Extras All the vendors and professionals who will be helping at your wedding should be fully informed about the location, too.

It’s a good idea to have your photographer and videographer walk through the location days or weeks before your wedding, ideally around the same time of day it will be taking place. They can scout out the best locations for photo shoots.

You also need to be prepared with a sound system that can be heard clearly outdoors.

An experienced wedding planner will be able to help you choose decorations that can look beautiful even on windy days, too.

Overall, planning for an outdoor wedding is all about thinking ahead and being flexible.

With the right plan in place, you can create a wedding that will be all the more memorable and beautiful thanks to your natural surroundings.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

The New Comfort Zone With a range of necklines, sleeves, illusion elements and lace — lots and lots of lace — designers are showing off alternative looks that allow brides to take a few risks with dress styles that are chic, youthful and luxurious, without having to settle on the strapless standby

By Nola Sarkisian-Miller Brides 365

What’s not to love about 2014 trends in the bridal market?

This year, brides are hardpressed to find something they dislike, as designers are giving them choices galore in terms of necklines, silhouettes and embellishment details.

With brides flocking to social media for nonstop ideas, there’s a sense that brides are stepping out of comfort zones and want more choices from designers to feed their sartorial wedding dreams.

“The past couple of years felt safe, and this year designers took more chances and offered more breadth,” says Anna Walsh, owner of two Denver bridal boutiques, Anna Be and A & Be Bridal Shop.

‘Danielle’: Ivory and nude lace illusion A-line dress with organza skirt and lace appliqué neckline, from Leanne Marshall

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Topping the list were the selection of necklines parading down the runways.

Strapless gowns had to make room for alternatives, such as silky cowl necks, shoulder straps, V-necks, cap sleeves and elbow sleeves.

and a trumpet dress by Amy Kuschel, done in primrose lace with an appliqué of French grand peony, are

Some highlights were the less-than-demure, biascut sheath gown with a plunging cowl neckline by Sarah Janks, along with the designer’s ladylike capsleeved silk marocain gown with a neckline framed in delicate, beaded French lace.

Leanne Marshall’s looks included a coy lace gown with lace elbow sleeves.

For those brides eager to show off a little skin, designers didn’t disappoint.

Dramatic backs emerged as another recurring trend, whether detailed with beading or cut oh-so low, because of the way they flatter figures.

Amy Kuschel kept the look sweet with scalloped edges and bows on her gowns.

Designs by Katie May that ‘Amelia’: Trumpet gown in primrose lace with French grand peony appliqué, from Amy Kuschel

“There isn’t just one neckline choice anymore,” Walsh says. “Brides can really pick and choose what they want. It used to be, I had only three dresses that weren’t strapless in the store.”

Bias-cut sheath gown with plunging cowl neckline, from Sarah Janks

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“These gowns provide a level of comfort for brides who don’t want to feel overexposed,” says Leanne Marshall, the “Project Runway” season five winner, who also launched a diffusion bridal line for the season.

The Backs Have It

And, Modern Trousseau paid homage to décolletage with a Thai silk ballgown featuring a draped bodice with off-the-shoulder straps.

At the same time, there were more riffs on strapless looks with the help of illusion styles, a trend that shows no abatement. Modern Trousseau offered a capsleeve look made of Alencon lace over a blush silk duchess gown. An ivory and nude lace gown with an organza skirt by Leanne Marshall

feeding the fascination of modest, yet skin-baring looks.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 featured completely open backs, like the corded lace slim-fit style, as well as Sarah Janks gowns, such as the shape-hugging, handkerchief gown with embroidered appliqué and a deep V- back, caught the eye of retailers, including Ivy Kaplin, owner of Lovely Bride in Philadelphia.

“Wearing it is definitely a confidence thing,” Kaplin says. “Designers are taking it to the next level … and showing off the body in all the right ways.”

‘Marena’: Thai silk ballgown with draped bodice and off-the-shoulder straps, from Modern Trousseau

mind that lingerie makers are selling those bare essentials — undergarment support concepts — at a variety of price ranges. Nordstrom sells the “Uplunge” backless strapless underwire bra with wings to hold the bra in place.

Kleinfeld Bridal sells the wayupmarket line of Ender Legard Corsetry, which offers backless

bodices. And, HerRoom.com sells Braza Reveal Silicone Bras, which are just cups available in nude and clear.

Lace, Lace, Lace The fabric of choice for the season again seems to be lace, lace and more lace, catering to brides’ sense of romance and whimsy.

Lest brides worry that they can’t pull off the look, bear in

Lace, in accents and layers, on Amy Kuschel’s ‘Giorgia’ gown

‘Cathryn’: Fit-to-flare gown with cap sleeves and scalloped neckline in Alencon lace over silk duchess, from Modern Trousseau

Capital Newspapers “Brides still want to take a few risks, but they want something that feels luxurious and modern and vintage that can be an heirloom,” says Lynn Annatone, marketing director for Modern Trousseau.

Less was not more as designers experimented with texture and layered laces, such as Chantilly and Alencon and Guipure and Venice over a Chantilly layer. Lace was in abundance at Modern Trousseau, which offered the fit-and-flare gown with off-the-shoulder straps and a scalloped neckline and a cap-sleeved style in Alencon lace over a silk duchess gown.

Amy Kuschel incorporated lace in layers and accents, such as in a strapless gown with a flared hem and scalloped edge. Anna Maier Ulla-Maija Couture offered a fluted floral lace gown with a high-neck and a oneshoulder column gown over silk double charmeuse.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 Hollywood glamour. Anna Maier showcased an empirewaist pleated ballgown with a bodice glittering with silver thread and crystal beading and a duchess satin gown embroidered in pewter and bronze. Maggie Sottero featured a beaded dress with layers, necklines and shoulder straps. Sarah Janks incorporated a belt made of beaded French lace roses on an airy ballgown

strung with beads and made of tulle and silk gazaar.

“We use a lot of tulle as a base for the embellishment to counter the surface interest,” Janks says. “There has to be a balance … so it doesn’t overwhelm the wearer.”

Subtle sparkle was even on display on Leanne Marshall’s collection with her use of hand-beaded lace. It’s an about-face for Marshall, who

says for the longest time she avoided using anything reminiscent of shine.

“I grew up designing my own dance costumes so I had my fill of sequins for a lifetime,” Marshall says.

“But, the last few seasons, it’s been growing on me to try something more subtle with nice shimmer.” © Brides 365

Lea Ann Belter Bridal mixed and matched the fabric as exemplified by a silk dupioni gown layered with three kinds of French lace ending in tiers of sheer silk organza and sequin-dotted tulle ruffles.

It may sound as if designers are going headover-heels overboard and creating overwrought fashions, but retailers praise the direction, which keeps lace chic and youthful.

“It seems like a lot, but it wasn’t,” says Stacy Fork, owner of The Gown Shop in Ann Arbor, Mich. “It gives us something new to present to the traditional bride.”

Designers also stepped up their beading with beaded sheaths and dazzling corsets, inspired by the sparkle and fun of Baz Luhrmann’s “The Great Gatsby” movie and Old

‘Mel’: Two-piece silk and beaded lace knee-length A-line dress with half-sleeves, gathered skirt and silk charmeuse undress, from Leanne Marshall

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Put a comfortable foot forward at your wedding

Some say shoes make the woman, but if they’re uncomfortable, shoes very well may break the woman -- especially at a wedding.

From the bride to the guests, choosing the wrong shoes could sideline you from dancing or cause pain through the night. A smarter step is to put just as much thought into the shoes you will wear as you will into other parts of your wardrobe.

Unless you’re wont to go anywhere without high heels, your feet may be unaccustomed to them for long durations of time. At a wedding, where it’s all about

mingling and dancing, comfort formal versions perfect for should be considered just as weddings and other special much as style. events.

That doesn’t mean you have to forgo an attractive shoe just for something comfortable.

It’s possible to have the best of both worlds. Here are some considerations. * Wedge heels: Unlike other types of heels that put the brunt of the pressure on the ball of the foot, wedge heels distribute body weight evenly throughout the foot.

Therefore, you might find these are some of the most comfortable types of heels around. Designers make them in all styles, including more

* Ballet pumps: Ballet pumps, once made famous by style icon Audrey Hepburn, can be worn with skirts or slacks. Their low profile helps keep feet comfortable, and they may come as flats or with a tiny heel. Embellished with bows, flowers or ribbons, these shoes will dress up any outfit. * Sandals: Particularly for warm-weather events, sandals can be quite comfortable and fashionable. Giving a peek of toe and ankle can be just as

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sexy as stilettos, without the pain. * Flip-flops: Many brides choose to don flip-flops under their gowns simply because they can be so comfortable.

Flip-flops needn’t be the runof-the-mill rubber kind found in the discount bin. They can be dressed up to match your gown or purchased with gemstones and other decor already attached.

For those who prefer heels for photo ops and looking fabulous, consider bringing along a change of shoes just in case foot pain flares up later in the evening.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Hot Trends for 2014 From décor to food to flowers, follow these expert insights for a stylish event this year

Décor The rustic wedding theme is getting a cosmopolitan update in 2014, according to the experts.

“People are tired of the shabbychic thing, so they’re going for an old world glamour kind of vibe,” says Sara Burnett, the editor of wedding-inspiration blog Burnett’s Boards.

Weddings in the coming year will take on more vintage elements to transport guests to a union that could have easily taken place decades ago. Think less whitewashed furniture and more classic mid-century pieces, says Erin Taylor of Bustle Events, a California-based, eventplanning firm. To help you set the scene, envision places with specific time periods, such as Venice, Italy, at the turn of the century.

“Vintage elements are romantic and bring an old-world charm to weddings,” says Deborah Collins Dunn, editor of the Wedding Thingz blog. And it’s the perfect way to incorporate the “something old” into the wedding tradition. “Many brides add old photos, books, typewriters and suitcases to the decor,” Dunn

Use your own family heirlooms to give the setting a personal touch. If you’re short on pieces with a nostalgic feel, Burnett also suggests taking photographs with a double exposure. The effect will result in shadowy, beautifully haunting pictures.

When decorating, embrace elaborate prints. Solid colors and chevron are on their way out to make way for more unusual prints, like eye-catching geometric shapes. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, either.

“Brides are getting a little more bold in their color palettes and rental choices,” Taylor says, and it extends all the way down to the smallest details like the invitations.

A few colors in particular are really making a splash. Expect weddings accents with hints of gray and mint green — a cousin of emerald, 2013’s color of the year.

Food and Cake For a trendy cocktail hour, presentation is key. Taylor suggests providing small tastes served in shot glasses. They

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Your floral arrangements don’t have to be relegated to table centerpieces. Brides of 2014 are playing with bold hair embellishments like dreamy flower crowns with tiny baby’s breath and large mixed bouquets. © Brides 365

Peonies are the flowers of the moment, and the bigger the better to make a statement piece that pops. Round out a peony bouquet with fillers like roses and hydrangeas. Tulips are another hot flower that can stand on their own in a vase.

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Pinks and peaches are classic flower colors that are especially popular for 2014, but your floral arrangements can veer off course to match your own theme. Keeping with the vintage trend, don’t be afraid to adorn the setting with flowers that go beyond traditional blush hues.

To tie a darker color scheme together, add in some dark floral arrangements for a look that’s elegant, not eerie. It’s perfect for making floral arrangements look like still-life art, a trend Burnett says florists will be experimenting with in the coming year.

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For cakes, both “naked” cakes — un-iced, exposed layers, as made famous by New York’s Momofuku Milk Bar — and ombré-colored cakes remain popular, but at the end of the meal, consider mixing it up with a sweet assortment of miniature treats. Serve your guests a variety of the trendy snack-size desserts — doughnuts, scones or handheld pies, which also can be a savory snack with a twist on the filling. Small scoops of ice cream topped with wafers also make for a simply delicious dish.

Fres h

Brides 365

can be filled with familiar hors d’oeuvres, or stuffed with bitesized versions of homey favorites like macaroni and cheese or chicken potpie. But no matter the food, the local, farm-to-table trend still reigns, so look into venues and caterers who source from local farms. “More people are concerned about where their food is coming from,” Taylor says.

lizing in ecia Sp

says. “One of my favorites is seeing old books on the reception tables for centerpieces.”

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

The Paper Trail

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Stationery is perhaps the one style decisions that is present throughout the entire wedding process, from the save-thedate all the way to the thankyou. Here’s how to keep your choices on trend

By Lindsey Romain Brides 365

Like all things wedding, invitation and save-the-date stationery are amorphous trends, changing with the year, just like fashion.

Stationery also is very couplespecific; lush fonts and classic framings are as popular as block letters and bright colors.

But another trend has emerged in the last few years that seemed at first glance a detrimental slight to the folks who make paper goods: the Internet invite.

Customizable down to the size, web-generated stationery lets eager brides and grooms drag and drop, and highlight and delete, to their heart’s content. Great for them, but what does it mean to traditional wedding stationery?

Not too much, really.

Patti Murphy, a New London, Ct.-based designer who sells custom-made wedding stationery through Etsy and blogs at PattiMurphyDesigns.com, isn’t concerned about the online trend, nor does she think the generators are as customspecific as they seem.

“The couples who want every detail to be just right will steer away from the template options and go for something more custom,” Murphy says.

Kleinfeld, the iconic New York dress destination, in 2013 introduced its own line of wedding stationery called Kleinfeld Paper, which can be found in paperies around the country. Paul Wainman, paper president at Kleinfeld, says that in-store experiences, as opposed to online, continue to yield the best results. “By shopping in store, the brides receive the etiquette expertise of the stationery store staff

as well as the ability to touch and feel the tactile nature of paper and print techniques, which is critical in the purchase of wedding invitations.” Local retailers carrying the Kleinfeld line can be found via the KleinfeldPaper website.

“Our feeling is that neither paper nor online wedding invitations is ‘correct’ as long as the message is considerably designed, thoughtfully worded and beautifully delivered.”

Whether they’re purchased online or custom designed in-store, the biggest trends aren’t necessarily market-specific.

However, James Hirschfield, founder and CEO of Paperless Post, one of the most popular online invite generators, says that people will likely continue to use both options.

Here are some of the most popular trends paper makers have noticed this year – both online and custom printed –

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

and how they expect things to change in the coming seasons.

Typography Blame it on Helvetica hype, but couples are more typography-obsessed these days than ever before.

“Fonts with a hand-lettered look or vintage-inspired type are the biggest requests we receive from brides,” says Jennifer Faught, another Etsy seller and blogger at SomethingDetailed.com.

A look through any stationery catalogue or online retailer will show a plethora of options, ranging from bold letters to delicate script, from the modern to the vintageinspired. Faught’s personal favorites are “stacked fonts” and “bold typography with a nod to tradition.”

Dare to Be Different Murphy says she’s noticed a lot of unconventional invites this year, both in wording and printing.

“I think each couple wants the invite to feel special for them and their guest, so custom illustrations or unique wording makes it feel made for them,” she says, noting that customizable rubber

stamps have been one of her biggest hits.

Even traditional templates are being infused with something extra – like a pop of color, an incorporated

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 Faught has seen a lot of success with foil printing in her shop, a look that she calls “so very beautiful.”

The extra effort involved makes it a more laborious process for designers, but one that assures hard work and specific attention to detail went into the process.

Green Goings With an abundance of paper comes environmental concern.

Minted.com is one site that offers eco-friendly invitation designs printed on recycled paper. Some Etsy shops and smaller retailers offer recycled paper options, too. It’s a trend Murphy has her eye on.

“I think natural options will emerge even more,” she says. “I have a lot of pattern or an envelope liner, according to Faught. She calls this traditional update “class with sass.”

Designer Style Bridal bigwigs like Preston Bailey and Vera Wang have long been putting their names on stationery lines. So it’s not big surprise that one of the biggest markets for Paperless Post, the popular online stationery generator, has been their collaboration with highend fashion designer Oscar de la Renta.

The line, which is “runway inspired” according to Hirschfeld, has been a great success for the online retailer.

“Oscar has one of the more sophisticated fashion perspectives on the bridal world and this comes through in his stationery,” Hirschfeld says.

The prints range from gold embroidery-style on a

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couples concerned about using recycled papers, seeded papers and other earthy items.”

Kraft Paper Those big rolls of cardboardlooking paper that kids scribble on for elementary school art projects? That’s called Kraft paper, and it’s been another big stationery trend this year.

“Our vintage-inspired invitation suite printed on Kraft paper has been the most popular invitation design this year,” says Faught.

She says it’s not just for DIY anymore – “it’s perfect for a fall or spring event, and can be dressed up for a more chic occasion.”

Who would have thought? © Brides 365

white background, to dark blues and pinks, to solid greys and floral-patterned blacks. They all retain the elegance and femininity of his custom gowns – a traditional, romantic, option for soon-to-be-weds.

“Chic,” says Hirschfield of the pieces, which can be used for save the dates, wedding invites, engagement parties and more.

Foil Foil-stamped and letterpress invites were popular styles at the Best New Product awards earlier this year, where eight National Stationery Show and Creative & Lifestyle Arts exhibitors were honored.

Foil stamping is a specialty process that involves heat and pressure to transfer foil type and patterns to paper.

Because it’s applied with pressure, it leaves a slightly raised impression on the paper.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Professional makeup artists can add a lot to weddings

Have you ever had your makeup professionally applied?

Apart from a trial application at a department store makeup counter, many women likely have no experience with professional makeup artists. While one may not hire a makeup artist for everyday events, a wedding is an occasion that often warrants the expertise of a professional.

Many brides-to-be and their attendants book the services of a hairstylist to achieve beautiful wedding day hair but may not find it necessary to enlist the services of a makeup artist, figuring they can apply makeup effectively enough. But a makeup artist has a wealth of information in makeup application, as well as knowledge of what looks best under the lights and flashes of

a camera. For those spending several thousand dollars on professional photography, an investment in a makeup artist can help ensure the faces smiling back from the photos look their best.

any bride-to-be put her best face forward. It also takes away some of the stress of readying for the wedding day. Many do-it-yourself brides do not use the right products and can end up looking washed out in photographs. Brides, especially those who typically do not wear a lot of makeup, may not know how much to apply, resulting in a lackluster finished product.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

19

What’s the Groom Say? More grooms are getting involved in planning the wedding, which means more grooms are getting stressed out about planning the wedding It’s not his day. He just thinks it is.

According to retailer David’s Bridal’s 7th annual “What’s On Bride’s Minds?” survey, 83 percent of grooms are actively involved in making wedding decisions.

The David’s Bridal survey echoed research from Mintel, which found that not only are men becoming more involved in wedding planning, they’re becoming nearly as stressed as women when it comes to planning a wedding, with 32 percent of men calling the process “overwhelming,” compared to 42 percent of women.

Two-thirds of brides surveyed said said the ceremony site was the most there is at least one thing that would important aspect of the day (versus 36 turn their groom into one of those percent of women). little green guys at the top of the page That said, the bride still is calling the (starts with “Groom,” ends with “zilla”). shots.

The areas most likely to set off the Nearly 20 percent of the brides groom? The guest list (31 percent), surveyed

by David’s Bridal said they music selection (24 percent) and wouldn’t trust their groom to make a honeymoon planning (16 percent). wedding decision without input from According to Mintel, 39 percent them. In fact, more than 40 percent of of men said they were in charge of brides said they didn’t even trust their picking the reception venue, and a groom to pick out their own tux for the quarter of men were in charge of wedding. Yikes! selecting bridal party gifts. Forty-six © Brides 365 percent of men in the Mintel research

20

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Wineries: A Growing Trend New locations opening across America

America’s wine culture was once thought to be centered around one place: Napa Valley. Today, though, wineries are among the nation’s fastest growing industries from coast to coast.

Between 1979 and 2010, there has been a 1,152 percent increase in the number of wineries in America. Yes, more than 1,000 percent!

That dramatic growth in the wine industry is evident in most parts of the country, where new wineries are opening up and small, local vineyards are offering distinct, modern takes on this very old industry.

Why all the growth?

Culture A big reason is that wine culture itself is growing.

Many people today enjoy drinking, sharing and collecting wine as a hobby.

They will learn all about different varieties of wine, grow a taste for their favorite vintage and explore the many different flavors from around the world.

Exploring wine is a social event, too. Not only do people often drink wine in social settings — both big parties and small, intimate gatherings with friends and loved ones — but they can talk about wine and share what they’ve learned with other wine lovers.

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Tourism Another big reason for wine’s resurgent popularity is that it makes for great tourism.

to see how wine is grown in vineyards near their home.

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Finally, locally grown Wineries have become major wine has become a big tourist destinations across draw as more Americans are America, which is great from concerned with where and a business perspective. If how their food is produced. you have friends or relatives Instead of relying on heavily coming from out of town, processed foods made by there’s a good chance you multi-national companies, might spend time at a local winery. And those out-of-town many people are turning to local farmers in an attempt to dollars add up. eat more wholesome foods.

It’s also popular for local or The same thing applies to regional tourists. You might enjoy a wine tasting, exploring local wines. When you know where the wine came from, all the different types and perhaps even the person available in your own hometown. Some people who created it, that makes the enjoy taking day trips, too, experience even richer.

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Capital Newspapers

Gin Up Your Bar

By Timothy R. Schulte Brides 365

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 Want to know the secret to getting a great drink at a wedding? Ask a bartender.

“I’ll do straight spirits, man, every time. Gin and tonic or gin and soda,” says Danny Shapiro, co-owner of Scofflaw, a ginfocused cocktail bar in Chicago.

Such enlightenment, of course, is the product of some tribulation.

“I was at this wedding in Richmond, Va. I basically tried ordering an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan or something, and I had to walk the bartender through the steps,” he says, taking care to note that was during his “younger days” when he was first getting into cocktails.

“There were people waiting for drinks, the bartender had no idea what I was talking about it.

“Ultimately, you don’t want to coach them too specifically,” Shapiro says. So, he gave only a basic rundown of the ingredients and ended up with a terrible

21

“I usually try to taste the spirit on its own and focus on what I believe to be interesting notes in that spirit, then play “At that point I realized the upon them and exaggerate way to go at weddings is straight spirits or a highball of something them with other spirits or and soda or something and Coke.” ingredients,” Shapiro says. drink. The lackluster cocktail caused him to be upset for the next “15 to 30 minutes,” he says.

For a lot of folks these days, that something is gin, which has been riding a wave of popularity — be it in the press, the rise in small-batch distillers or literal gin joints like Shapiro’s (both he and Scofflaw were named Chicago’s top ’tender and bar in 2013).

Mix It Right You want to be cognizant of your budget, but you also want to please your guests. Don’t skimp on a great drink just to make your alcohol go longer.

Shapiro’s ratio for a great So, naturally, the spirit deserves drink is one part alcohol to two parts water-based mixer. a spot at your wedding bar.

Here’s what you need to know.

“One and a half ounces gin, 3 ounces tonic. That way you can Get To Know Your Gin taste your booze, but it shouldn’t Shapiro stocks more than be too offensive,” Shapiro says.

80 varieties of gin at his bar.

“What’s cool with gin is there Tweak the Classics are so many variations on If you’re unfamiliar with one flavor profile, and those gin cocktails, just start with a variations are so minute,” he classic drink — then modify says. “It’s fun to explore.” it to make it work for you.

The takeaway: Whether you’re Take the Pegu Club — gin, working to craft a signature cocktail or just want to make sure Cointreau, lime juice, bitters.

Shapiro says subbing in blanco your mixers pair well with the spirit, spend some time getting to tequila would work just as well know its profile. And find out the as the classic gin version. ingredients in your gin. Orange or The same works for the grapefruit? Garnish with a peel. inverse, such as a Gin Old If it’s barrel-aged and you pick up Fashioned, with gin taking some clove, stud the orange peel the place of the bourbon. with a few cloves. Cassia bark?

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Choosing the right wedding reception favors Planning a perfect wedding is no small undertaking.

From scheduling venues and hiring vendors to tasting menus, lots of decisions must be made when planning a wedding. But when the pieces fall into place, the entire day can be magical.

Brides- and grooms-to-be should not underestimate the importance of handing out wedding favors, a tradition with a rich history. A wedding favor is considered a symbol of good will to guests, and there are many different wedding favors on the market. Finding the right one can take a little work.

One of the final components It is usually a good idea to of weddings are the favors find something that suits guests will take home with the theme of the wedding them as mementos of the and is both long-lasting festivities. Though favors and practical. Try to avoid don’t require immediate anything that is too kitschy. attention, that does not A couple’s budget should mean couples should wait be considered when choosing until the last minute to wedding favors. A couple made decisions regarding may want to give their guests their wedding favors. lavish gifts but should only

do so if their budget allows.

It may be challenging for couples to find favors that fit the theme of their wedding, as well as their own personalities and budgets. But it can be done. The following are some favor-finding guidelines.

Be creative Wedding favors can be just about anything, so there’s no need to stick to Jordan almonds or wine bottle stoppers. The more creative couples are, the more receptive their guests will likely be. For example, for an autumn-theme wedding, fill mason jars with the ingredients for a spiced cake and give the recipe directions on a tag. For a summer

wedding, gift guests with a sun and surf survival bag, full of sunblock, a beach towel and sunglasses.

Complete the theme Some weddings follow a particular theme from start to finish, and wedding favors should stick with that theme.

Couples who will showcase their love of travel on their wedding days may want to give guests keychains or purse holders that feature popular landmarks around the world.

Those who are admitted beach bums may want to present a small fishbowl with sand and a goldfish inside, reminiscent of days at the seashore.

Go traditional Couples who opt for universally appealing favors can lean toward some popular options, such as silver cake servers, candlestick holders, decorative photo frames, or engraved keepsake boxes.

Aim for favors that have utility. Otherwise, favors may end up collecting dust on someone’s shelf.

Food and beverage gifts are fun Food favors mean guests can enjoy their gifts and not have to worry about finding space inside their homes to display trinkets.

Food favors can be lavishly decorated cookies, fine chocolates, petit fours, small bottles of champagne or cupcakes decorated like the wedding cake.

Favors are often integral to wedding celebrations.

Selecting a favor that will be appreciated and fit with the wedding is often a fun and stress-free part of planning a wedding.

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

23

Explore unique cake flavor combinations

A wedding cake is the piece de resistance of the wedding ceremony. Guests anxiously await the unveiling of the cake near the end of the festivities.

Modern cakes are showpieces grander in scale than in years past. As bakers and confectioners hone their skills with fondant, buttercream and gum paste even further, the results are often impressive, awe-inspiring cake designs.

While the look of a wedding cake is certainly important, cakes should not only look good, but taste good as well. Vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream frosting was once the gold standard. But today’s couples are being more adventurous with their wedding cakes and winning rave reviews from guests along the way.

The vast scope of wedding cake flavor choices available to brides and grooms is astonishing.

Options may range from the traditional to something adventurous and daring. Keeping in mind that couples will need to please the masses, finding a compromise between plain vanilla and a mocha-chile-coconut surprise is essential. Otherwise, they risk an unpopular flavor and a lot of wasted, expensive cake.

Some couples shy away from more adventurous cakes because

they fear something chocolately or not white in color will not be well suited to a wedding reception. Such couples should keep in mind that any flavor of cake can be hidden beneath layers of pearly white fondant or royal icing. Therefore, the sky is the limit with regard to flavor combinations.

Those who might want to veer from tradition can consider these clever cake combinations: * Lemon cake with vanilla buttercream: Lemons are tart, juicy and refreshing, helping to cleanse the palate after a rich meal. Lemon cake, with its summery feel, is tailor-made for summer weddings. The flavor is popular enough to appeal to many, but just a little different to add an unexpected zip of flavor. * Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache and mocha filling: True chocoholics will be hardpressed to resist such a decadent flavor profile. Chocolate can be sweet and satisfying and a welcome change from the vanilla cakes commonly served. For traditionalists, the cake can be covered with a white chocolate ganache. Or couples can ask that the cake be adorned with white sugar roses for an eye-appealing contrast. Chocolate cakes covered

with autumn hued flowers go over well at fall weddings. * Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting: Red velvet cake was once a regionally specific staple, but now has grown steadily in popularity across the country. Red velvet has quickly become the new classic, as its vibrant red coloring offers a shock of something different, while the flavor is mild for those who are not comfortable taking risks. The richness and creaminess of cream cheese is irresistible. * White cake with chocolate mousse: Couples who want a bit of chocolate but do not want to be overwhelmed can select a white cake that is filled with light and rich chocolate mousse. It’s the perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate for guests who enjoy both.

* Variety tiers: Those who cannot settle on just one flavor can have different flavors on each tier of their cakes. This gives guest some flavorful variety and enables them to pick their favorite flavor combination.

Brides- and grooms-to-be who have specific flavors in mind can ask their bakers to include two cupcakes with the wedding cake.

Then the couple can enjoy their own mini cakes while the rest of the guests enjoy a more classic cake. In addition, an assortment of cupcakes in lieu of one cake can give guests the opportunity to sample several different flavors.

Cakes are a part of many special events, but few cakes are fawned over as much as wedding cakes. Couples can spice things up by choosing a nontraditional flavor combination.

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24

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

How to approach music on your wedding day

Music often plays an important role on festive occasions, and wedding days are no exception. The right music can make a wedding day that much more meaningful, while the wrong music can make a couple’s big event memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Though music selection might seem like one of the easier decisions couples must make, those about to tie the knot typically must make a host of music-related decisions regarding their wedding day, including whether to choose a live band or a deejay to perform at their wedding receptions.

While the reception is when music might be most on display, couples planning their weddings must think beyond the reception when setting the musical tones for their weddings.

Ceremony

and cannot be played inside the venue.

Classical, hymnal or processional music often makes the best fit when weddings are taking place in more formal venues. Outdoor weddings tend to give couples more leeway. But in general couples don’t want to choose any music that’s too loud or over-thetop for their ceremonies.

Keep in mind that while the music played during the ceremony can set the tone for the day, this music can vary significantly from the music played during the reception. A favorite performer may not be appropriate during the ceremony, but that doesn’t mean the couple can’t dance to that artist’s music during the reception.

Live musicians can add a more elegant feel to the ceremony, but such performers also can be costly. Playing prerecorded music may not be as elegant as having a live performer, but it can cost a lot less and still make for an enjoyable day and evening.

The ceremony itself often sets the tone for a couple’s wedding day. A beach wedding, for example, often creates a laid back atmosphere, while a ceremony held in a large church or Reception temple often sets a more formal tone.

Many couples prefer deejays to live Music played during the ceremony also bands for their wedding receptions. goes a long way toward setting the Deejays can play favorite songs as tone couples hope to establish. couples and their guests know them, When choosing music for the while bands can only play their own ceremony, couples should first consider renditions of those songs. the venue where they are tying the Another thing to consider when knot. Some, such as houses of worship, may have rules pertaining to what can choosing between a deejay or live

band for the reception is the venue itself. Some venues are smaller and unable to accommodate a full band, while others may not have ideal acoustics, making it difficult for a live band to sound as good as they might in a more music-friendly environment.

by hiring deejays or bands who lend couples their equipment during the ceremony. Deejays or bands who will loan and set up the necessary sound equipment for outdoor ceremonies merit extra consideration.

When discussing music to be played during the reception, couples must consider their own musical tastes as well as those of their guests. A wide range of popular music tends to go best at wedding receptions, as guests are more likely to dance to songs they recognize. Avoid any music that has the potential to offend guests, opting for lighter, happier tunes instead. Whether hiring a band or deejay, couples should make a list of Couples tying the knot outdoors no-play songs or artists and make sure may need to consider equipment when that such lists are included in their choosing bands or deejays to play their contracts. weddings. For example, some venues Music plays an important role do not provide equipment, such as on couples’ wedding days. Though microphones and speaker systems, to choosing music for the ceremony and couples for their ceremonies. Renting the reception is often fun, couples such equipment can be costly, but must take such decisions seriously. couples can often skirt such charges The formality of the event should also come into consideration when choosing between a live band or a deejay for the reception. Deejays spinning the latest top 40 hits may stick out like sore thumbs at especially formal weddings, while a classical orchestra likely won’t fit into the laid back theme of a beach or destination wedding.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

25

Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances

Newlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons. One of the more critical issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going forward.

* Pay off any debts.

The cost of weddings has skyrocketed over the last several decades, and many newlyweds find themselves in a considerable amount of debt upon returning from their honeymoons. When merging finances, couples Combining finances can should prioritize paying be a touchy subject for many couples, especially those who down such debt, as debt is a significant source of stress for had not given much thought newlyweds and long-married to their finances prior to couples alike. Newly married tying the knot. But there are couples with little or no debt steps couples can take to should avoid spending above make the process of merging their means in the months finances go more smoothly. after they get married. Such * Discuss finances early and spending is commonplace, as often. Allowing finances to newly married couples often be the elephant in the room want to fully furnish their new is a mistake, as couples do homes or reward themselves not want to begin their lives for pulling off their weddings. together treading lightly But new debt can be just around an issue as significant as stressful on a marriage as finances. Couples should as debt from the wedding, discuss their expenditures and so avoid this potentially spending habits as early as problematic pitfall by paying possible, as one of the biggest down existing debts with hurdles newly married couples your newly merged finances. must clear is coming to grips * Make note of mutual with one another’s financial expenses and open a joint habits. If such habits have account to pay for those already been discussed, then expenses. Mutual expenses developing a financial plan like mortgage payments, food will be much easier once that and utilities should be the time comes. When discussing responsibility of each partner, finances, define both shortterm and long-term goals and and a joint account should be established to handle such how each of you can adjust your spending habits to make expenses. When opening a joint account, discuss how those goals come true.

much and how often each partner will contribute money. One partner might earn considerably more money than another, so work out a reasonable agreement that details how much each partner will contribute each month, and whether such contributions will be made on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis.

note the importance of making concessions with regard to their partners’ spending on certain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those hobbies are not putting couples in debt or jeopardizing their financial goals, couples can make concessions so their partners continue to be happy and enjoy their favorite activities.

* Make concessions for one another. When merging finances, couples often discover that they don’t see eye-to-eye on how each person spends money.

Couples who successfully merge their finances often

Merging finances is an issue that looms for many newlyweds or couples about to tie the knot. Though it’s not always easy, merging finances early and discussing goals can ensure newlyweds get off on the right financial foot.

26

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Don’t underestimate importance of wedding day photography

Limousines, gowns and flowers are each important components of a couple’s wedding day. But few aspects of a wedding are as important as photography.

Thanks to the popularity of social media, some couples may overlook the importance of hiring a professional photographer for their weddings. Although there is something to be said for candid images captured on phones and personal cameras, the pictures a couple will cherish and look back on for decades are best supplied by a professional photographer.

Even if you will be hiring a videographer and having photos snapped by loving friends and family,

professional wedding photography is an ideal way to immortalize this special day. Most couples say “I do” with the hopes of staying together forever, giving them only one chance to capture the magic of the wedding day on film. Leaving photos to chance by hiring an amateur photographer may be something couples regret down the road.

Professional photographers use high-quality equipment that will produce much better results than photos snapped on the average digital camera. Plus, the photographer has experience with posing, placement of arms and legs, head tilting, and lighting, each of which ensures that the photos

come out looking as good as possible. While a friend may not notice an eyesore in the rear of a photo composition when taking a picture, a professional may notice something that will stand out and make adjustments.

Furthermore, professional photographers tend to have an eye for interesting angles to capture images that may be overlooked. Rather than a series of portraits at one level, he or she may climb high for aerial shots or lie on the floor for a different perspective. The results may be unique vantage points that set your wedding photos apart from those of the masses.

Price alone should not dictate which photographer to hire. Although wedding

budgets are often stretched, skimping on a photography allotment may result in subpar results. That doesn’t mean you need to hire the most expensive photographer, but couples should realize the value of experience and professional equipment, both of which tend to come at a premium price. Do not expect to pay package prices that would be offered at department or discount stores.

Many photographers are artists who take their work very seriously. A photographer will be spending all day with you capturing hundreds of photos. Each image will then need to be reviewed, repositioned and potentially enhanced or retouched. This time-consuming attention to detail is often what dictates the higher costs of a very good photographer.

Keep in mind that photographers are unique individuals and not all the visions and styles of particular artists will meld with your own perception of how you want the wedding to look. Expressing your expectations and comparing your goals with the portfolios of photographers will help you find the best fit. Do not feel shy about asking for testimonials from past customers or talking to couples you know who have recently gotten married and asking for a recommendation.

While couples are making wedding day magic, photographers are behind the scenes capturing all of the memories couples can relive for years and years to come.

Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

27

Tips when choosing a honeymoon destination

As couples cope with the stress and struggles of planning a wedding, many begin to see their honeymoons as a time when they can finally unwind and relax without having to worry about seating arrangements, vendor negotiations or the host of other responsibilities that come with planning a wedding. But securing the perfect honeymoon can be nearly as difficult as planning the wedding.

honeymoon. When shopping for a honeymoon destination, know what you can and can’t afford. Your honeymoon budget may narrow your options considerably, but it will help you ensure you aren’t spending your first trip as a married couple pinching pennies.

The biggest dilemma couples face when planning a honeymoon is where to spend that first week or so as a married couple. The right locale for a honeymoon varies depending on the couple.

Some might prefer a Hawaiian island while others might find a week spent camping in a national park is more their style. Whatever you and your future spouse’s style may be, the following are a few tips to ensure you both have the time of your lives.

* Play around with the length of your trip. Many couples aim to spend at least one week on their honeymoons. But one way to save money on the honeymoon or make a more expensive locale more affordable is to reduce the length of your stay. An extra two days in paradise might break your honeymoon budget, but what about a shorter stay? You will likely want to spend at least five days at your chosen destination, but a five-day trip can prove considerably less expensive than a full week, especially if you arrive and depart on a weekday.

* Decide what you can afford. The days when the bride’s father takes care of the bill for the wedding are largely a thing of the past. Many of today’s couples finance their own weddings, which can leave little money leftover for the

* Travel in the offseason.

While many couples deserve an immediate getaway after planning and financing their weddings, you might get a better deal if you delay your honeymoon until the offseason, when resorts tend to offer more attractive

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packages after the tourist season has peaked. A honeymoon in the offseason is likely to offer more privacy than one taken during the peak of the season, so you might find such a honeymoon is more romantic. If you do decide to delay your honeymoon, you might still want to plan a short getaway to a nearby locale for a few days after you tie the knot.

Even a short trip can help you unwind after all that planning and coordinating. * Establish a honeymoon registry. In addition to who’s paying for the wedding, one of the ways in which today’s couples are different from those of yesteryear is the fact that many couples now live together before tying the knot. That reality has made the traditional registry somewhat obsolete, as many of today’s couples already own their own furniture and

already have a fully stocked kitchen. But couples can still have a honeymoon registry, which allows their guests to donate money they would otherwise be spending on a wedding gift to a fund that will be used specifically to fund the couple’s honeymoon and any adventures they choose to enjoy on their trip. Guests may even prefer such a registry, as it saves them the trouble of wrapping a gift and carrying it to the wedding while ensuring the happy couple will truly enjoy their gift.

A couple’s honeymoon is a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy some rest and relaxation on their first trip together as man and wife. And by putting a few savvy suggestions to good use, couples can ensure their honeymoon is all they hoped it would be and much, much more.

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Capital Newspapers

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

The Brewery Wedding America’s craft breweries aren’t just great places to get a beer. With unique indoor and outdoor spaces, and, yes, a steady supply of libations, couples are turning to them for creative, fun wedding venues. Cheers!

By Jill Jaracz Brides 365

Some couples meet in a bar, but how many actually get married in one? Perhaps more than you think.

Meredith Cella Pellegrini did not have her heart set on such a location when she and her husband Patrick were scouting wedding venues for their May 2013 wedding. The Chicagoans looked at a number of loft spaces around the city, desiring a locale that was casual but cozy. But the place that ended up capturing their hearts was the Brewer’s Lounge at Chicago’s Revolution

Brewing, an event space that doubles as the second level of Revolution’s brewpub restaurant.

Unlike a raw space that would have required a caterer, bringing in alcohol and perhaps table and chair rentals, the brewery space handled everything under one roof.

“A brewery that provides food and booze takes a lot of the guesswork out,” Pellegrini says. “Bottom line, in addition to being a really beautiful space … it was way more affordable than the other options we were considering.”

The Pellegrinis’ wedding was one of more than 50 that took place in 2013 at Revolution’s Brewer’s Lounge, which catered to just three weddings when it opened in 2011, according to Meghan Rutledge, Revolution’s event planner.

Rutledge anticipates around 70 weddings in 2014 and already is receiving requests for 2015.

Like Revolution, craft breweries all around the country, with their brewing facilities, brewpubs and taprooms, quickly are becoming hot wedding destinations for craftbeer enthusiasts like the Pellegrinis — “We’re both

beer drinkers,” she says — who are looking for a unique backdrop for their big day.

After all, craft beers value the same tenets as marriage: quality, care and love.

Couples want to share that love at their weddings, so they’re going straight to the source.

The Local Factor Although it may sound like a new concept, breweries have been hosting weddings for years.

Boulevard Brewing Co. has been creating craft beers in Kansas City, Mo., since 1989. When the company expanded operations to

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include a new 70,000-squarefoot facility in 2006, event spaces were part of the plan alongside increasing brewing and bottling capacities.

According to the American Craft Brewers Association, on average most Americans live within 10 miles of a brewery.

“[The brewery] was often the place you had community events,” says Blue Lawrence, director of hospitality at Boulevard, which hosts wedding receptions both large and small in its Muehlebach Suite (more than 200 guests) and Brewhouse Bar (up to 75 guests).

And don’t be surprised to see that number get smaller.

For KC couples, the idea of having their wedding at a brewery is a no-brainer.

“Boulevard is an icon of the community,” Lawrence says. “[People] appreciate that and want to celebrate in a place that resonates as a city.

On the state level, as one example, the number of microbreweries in the state of Minnesota grew from just nine in 2010 to nearly 40 in 2013.

“It’s very local,” she adds.

According to a report from Demeter Group Investment Bank, the craft beer industry has grown at a 10percent clip since 2007 and is expected to represent nearly 15 percent of the overall beer industry by 2020.

The Look and Feel Craft breweries have taken care to create event spaces

that provide a wide range of atmospheres, from casual to formal.

Deschutes Brewery in Bend, Ore., also has held wedding receptions for more than a decade in its Mountain Room, which looks out onto the Cascade Mountains. “Views, that’s the draw right there,” says Allison Leach, Deschutes’ marketing coordinator and private events manager.

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being too stuffy, nor too casual.

“We use a lot of repurposed wood [and] bourbon barrels that make the spaces warm and inviting,” she says.

In addition to its brewpub lounge, Revolution has a second space located in a taproom and production facility that is designed for cocktail party-style weddings. “It’s industrial Similarly, Boulevard’s and funky and has a little Muehlebach Suite, which hosts more than 70 weddings bit of a shock factor because a year, has a grand terrace it’s huge,” Rutledge says. that overlooks the city.

One wall of the space is “[It’s] embracing Kansas entirely glass and shows off City the way Kansas City the production lines. The has embraced the brewery,” space itself contains bourbon Lawrence says. barrels that are aging beer.

“You’re really in the middle At Revolution, Rutledge of the building and brewing says their spaces aim to be unique and beautiful without [production],” Rutledge says.

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SweetWater Brewing Co. of Atlanta also has two spaces with different atmospheres.

Its Tasting Room is a more casual space with a large wall of glass windows and an outdoor patio with a bandstand and bar. The Reel Room has more formal elements, including a custom SweetWater back bar, Georgia marble bar top and custom wood barstools, says Carrington Moore, SweetWater’s director of enjoyment and events.

Unique Experiences Breweries can offer unique experiences for guests that couples can’t get with traditional event spaces.

At Boulevard, guests get to have the full line of yearround Boulevard beers and wines that aren’t at other Kansas City event spaces.

Deschutes, Revolution and SweetWater all offer private tours to wedding guests, and SweetWater includes a souvenir pint glass as a favor. The tours give guests a chance to learn about the beers from the brewery’s expert servers.

“We understand that not everybody drinks beer,” Rutledge says. “People who are not normally beer drinkers will go on the tour and try it.”

Rogue Ales of Portland, Ore., operates two farms in the area, growing ingredients like barley and hops for its Chatoe line of beers. The brewer hosts weddings at its Hop Farm in Independence, Ore. Couples can marry outdoors amongst the vines of floral hops, and then move into the rustic barn for the reception. Guests can enjoy the ambience of the farm and its surrounding fruit and nut orchards, and, of course, partake in Rogue’s beer and spirits.

Beyond the Beer

As with their beers, Some breweries can even provide a rustic outdoor farm brewers are passionate experience. about food.

“People are always surprised by our food quality. They know we do a nice job but are blown away,” says Deschutes’ Leach.

Pellegrini needed a menu at Revolution to fit her and her husband’s vegetarian lifestyle. “They were super accommodating about creating a menu with vegetarian options,” she says.

That even included a localinspired, late-night snack — vegan Chicago-style hot dogs — to match the local brews.

“The food and beer together were just outstanding at Revolution,” Pellegrini says. © Brides 365

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