Inside Pennsylvania Weddings 2024

Chip Minemyer

Publisher

Magazine Staff

Lori Seebold

Advertising Director

Amber Hawke

Layout/Design

Bruce Burkhart

Digital Content Coordinator

Cindy O. Herman

Writer/Contributor

James Hawke Writer/Contributor

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Weddings Inside PA is published yearly at 200 Market St., Sunbury, PA 17801. Weddings Inside PA and Inside PA Magazine (ISSN 19354738, publishes 6 issues, yearly) are not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permission, is prohibited. Copyright 2009 by Community News Group LLC. All rights reserved. Single issue: $5.00. Subscription: $23.70 annually (U.S. only). POSTMASTER: Send address change to Inside PA magazine, 200 Market

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Cover Photo by: Jade Arwen, Heart of Dene Studios

B old Colors

2024 is the year for vibrancy! You’ll not only see the traditional muted pastels and classic whites, but bright colors will be everywhere. You can showcase your chosen bright colors in the flowers, table linens, and the lighting at the reception. Hot colors this year include greens, deep teals, blues, and purples. Lavender in particular is going to be very popular.

D rone Shows & Drone

Photorgaphy & Videography

Imagine a programmable fireworks show!

R estaurant Receptions

estaurants

Restaurants are no longer being considered just for rehearsal dinners anymore!

W edding Crests

Get medieval! Imagine royal crests but designed just for your wedding.

S ustainability

People are much more mindful of sustainability all around and are seeking out more earth-friendly options.

E xperiential Entertainment

You've hired your DJ, but why not delight your guests in a new way? Live painters and sketch artists are at the top of this list along with Drag Performers, Magicians, Fire Breathers, Dancers, Celtic drummers, etc. For those who want personalization but aren’t quite ready for a real tattoo, temporary tattoo stations are an increasingly popular option.

I ce Sculptures

Not your mama's ice sculptures! A total work of art in ice.

G arden-Patched Cakes

Just how it sounds. Colorful flowers covering your cake.

2024 Weddings

W edding Newspapers

Custom Newspapers are really hot this year. You can use them as a save the date, as the invitations, to put on tables as a ceremony program, or even as a thank you, after the wedding. It offers a lot of creativity and provides a nice keepsake.

M ismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Go with different colors or patterns. The matching tradition seems to be out the window.

P olaroid & Disposable Cameras

Hello 80s and 90s throwback! These cameras are back! Turn all your guests into vintage photographers.

usion Food Trucks

Taco and pizza trucks for weddings have always been popular, but now things are getting more creative. Combining Indian and Japanese, or Latin and pizza, and you’re getting a whole new type of food truck experience.

M ocktails & Signature Cocktails

Cater to those at your wedding that don't drink, are sober or are "sober curious". Instead of just offering soda water and lime for these guests, the trend is to choose some signature mocktails in fun hoosing some signature cocktails is also trending! Let your mixed drinks be as memorable as the celebration itself. Be creative and make it your own! (See our feature on page 6.) Cheers!

Choosing

CUSTOM N eon Signs & Disco Balls

Flash and lights are all the rage! Who doesn't want to see their name in neon, or dance under a disco ball with all their favorite people in the world?

Basking in Love

By Cindy O. Herman

When Amy Hartman entered her wedding at Willow Stone Farm, in Mifflinburg, people gasped. She attributed that to her dress – “It was a Great dress,” she said, but both Amy and Ben Hartman remarked several times on the predominant feeling of the day: love.

“I think the biggest thing with our wedding is that it was overwhelmingly filled with love,” Amy said, wiping away tears at the memory. “There was so much love in that room.”

One of the unique props at their September 23, 2023, wedding was a wishing tree hung with ribbons and notes of guests’ good wishes. That tree now stands, lit with fairy lights and still holding all that goodwill, in their Lewisburg home.

Amy and Ben chose a Celtic handfasting ceremony, which joins a couple’s hands in an infinite loop of giving and receiving, supporting and leaning.

“I wanted something that was symbolic and beautiful and tied to nature and the elements,” Amy said. “A part of the ceremony I like is, there’s also a vow that the guests make that they’re going to stand beside us and never between us. Marriage doesn’t happen in a vacuum, so you need your community. It’s something that is chosen, and you work at it every day.”

Amy laughed saying, “Everybody loved it.”

L oss and Love

The wedding day, sadly, held a note of sorrow to it. Ben’s best man, Derek Scott, co-founder of Gaspipe Theatre Company, passed away suddenly a month before the wedding.

“He was one of my best friends in the world. It was a sad thing,” Ben said. “The rest of the groomsmen stepped up and kind of 'best-man-by-committee’ed' it. They teamed up to give the best man speech.”

Ben had asked Derek for advice on buying a suit.

“He is the most fashionable guy I know. Frank Sinatra vibes. Who would know better to ask where to get a suit?” Ben said. “He was like, bro, I would just go to Boscov’s.”

AMY’S ADVICE TO WEDDING COUPLES:

"One step at a time. Write everything down. Get contracts. Have fun.”

While reciting their vows, Ben explained the amicable numbers, or lovers’ numbers, engraved in their rings.

“A pair of lovers’ numbers are a pair of numbers that are each the sum of the other one’s factors. I’m a math teacher, so I got to explain that as part of our vows.” He grinned. “The rest of the vows were sweet and they were about Amy, but I got to give a 30-second math lesson.”

With Derek’s seal of approval, Ben knew he’d look sharp, and was grateful to him.

“It was a sad thing,” Ben said. “But one thing I know of Derek, he absolutely would have wanted the day to go forward as it was supposed to.”

Reception

As for the reception, Amy has learned over years of hosting parties at their home that having a good event means throwing a "kids’ party for grownups." She and Ben had games, temporary tattoos, bubble bazookas and a piñata made by one of her bridesmaids.

“We threw a party that everyone could have a good time at. It wasn’t stuffy and it wasn’t fussy,” she said. “As soon as the DJ started, people just flooded the dance floor. Yes, our wedding was stunning and I was really proud of it, but we had a lot to celebrate, and unfortunately a lot to grieve as a community together. Our guests were ready

Ben & Amy Hartman

Photo by: Jade Arwen, Heart of Dene Studios

for a night of fun.”

Amy’s advice to wedding couples: one step at a time. Write everything down. Get contracts. Have fun.

“Make sure you’re not losing sight of what you two want as a couple, instead of the pressures that you feel like you have to do this or you have to do that,” she said.

Although it rained like crazy on their wedding day, it resulted in vibrant photos.

“They say rain is good luck on your wedding day,” Amy said. “Well, we should be good.”

Guests are the most important thing, Ben said. Don’t get caught up in trying to make things look perfect.

we paid through the nose for the beautiful cakes and cupcakes,” Ben said. “Actually we didn’t. We got a beautiful setup but we paid Walmart prices.”

Cookie Table: “My mom’s side of the family is all Catholics from Pittsburgh, and the cookie table is right up their alley,” Ben said. Guests contributed homemade cookies.

“We had a very beautiful wedding,” he said. “We could have had a beautiful wedding in a fire hall. The pictures wouldn’t have been as nice – the love would have still been there.”

The "Deets" on the Hartman Wedding

Ben and Amy Hartman, of Lewisburg

Married: September 23, 2023

Venue: Willow Stone Farm, in Mifflinburg

Gown: Brides of Today, near Lancaster. “They are a plussize wedding boutique I found on Tiktok. They were absolutely wonderful,” Amy said.

Suit: Boscov’s, in Selinsgrove.

Officiant: High Priestess Kori Miller, from Selinsgrove.

Rings: Black Dog Jewelers, in Lewisburg.

Flowers: Done by Amy, herself! “It was awesome,” Ben said. “The house was so colorful.”

Vocalists: Seth Confer and Megan Fisher. “The best vocalists in the area. I’m incredibly biased but also correct about it,” Amy said.

Balloon Arch: Andrew Weaver, of Air Weaver Balloons, in Sunbury.

Food: Feast of Flavor Catering, in Lewisburg. They even re-created a recipe from Amy’s deceased mother. Nonna (No-nah) Soup is a spicy tomato soup with sausage, kale and white beans. “The meal was dedicated in her memory,” Amy said. “They did such a fantastic job.”

Cake/Cupcakes: Walmart, in Lewisburg. “I gave them my color palette and they just went wild,” Amy said. “My Bucknell pals were in from out of town and they assumed

Music: DJ Stygian, from Lancaster.

Entertainment: Arcane Noir Variety Troupe.

Photos: Jade Arwen, Heart of Dene Studios.

Video: Steve Gibson, Art Academy of Milton.

Wedding Hack: Ben and Amy had a cocktail hour while their photos were taken before the wedding, allowing guests a window of arrival time and less waiting around between the wedding and reception.

The Engagement

They were visiting the American Museum of Natural History, in New York City. Ben treated Amy to an exhibit of gems, which she loves. “After the gem exhibit, I said, ‘hey, one more rock,’ and pulled the ring out of my pocket,” he said.

Amy and Ben Hartman relax in the garden tent of their Lewisburg home.

Photo by: Cindy Herman

Ben & Amy Hartman get engaged in New York City.

Photo provided by Amy Hartman

RAISING THE BAR

STORY BY JAMES HAWKE

Ii n recent years, the wedding industry has seen a surge in the popularity of mocktails, non-alcoholic beverages that offer the complexity and sophistication of traditional cocktails without the alcohol. This trend is a reflection of broader societal shifts towards health-conscious living, inclusivity, and the celebration of individual choices. As more people embrace a sober lifestyle, whether for health, religious, or personal reasons, mocktails provide an elegant and inclusive solution for wedding celebrations. This article explores why mocktails are becoming a must-have at weddings and how they can be seamlessly incorporated into the big day.

T he Appeal of Mocktails

Mocktails are no longer the dull, sweet concoctions they once were. Today, they are crafted with the same care and creativity as their alcoholic counterparts. Professional mixologists use fresh ingredients, exotic flavors, and stunning presentations to create beverages that are both delicious and visually appealing. The result is a drink that can stand proudly beside any traditional cocktail.

The growing popularity of mocktails is partly driven by the increasing awareness of health and wellness. Many people are choosing to reduce their alcohol intake or eliminate it altogether to improve their physical and mental well-being. For some, this decision is linked to fitness goals, while for others, it is a way to manage stress and improve overall quality of life. Mocktails offer a way to participate in social drinking without compromising these health objectives.

Mocktails are an excellent option for guests who cannot or choose not to drink alcohol, including pregnant women, designated drivers, individuals with medical conditions, and those who abstain for religious or personal reasons. Offering sophisticated non-alcoholic options ensures all guests feel included and enhances the overall wedding experience. Mocktails appeal to those who prefer to avoid alcohol while enjoying a flavorful and festive drink. This thoughtful inclusion makes guests feel valued, contributing to a more inclusive, and celebratory atmosphere, significantly elevating the wedding experience overall.

Designing the Perfect Mocktail Menu

Creating a mocktail menu for a wedding requires the same level of thought and care as designing a traditional cocktail menu. The key is to ensure that the drinks are diverse and appealing to a wide range of tastes. Here are some tips for crafting an unforgettable mocktail:

VARIETY IS KEY

Include a mix of flavors to cater to different preferences. Offer something fruity and sweet, something tangy and refreshing, and something rich and complex. This way, every guest can find a drink that they enjoy.

SEASONAL INGREDIENTS

Use fresh, seasonal ingredients to create vibrant and flavorful drinks. For a summer wedding, consider cold beverages with fresh berries, citrus, and herbs. For a winter wedding, incorporate flavors like apple, cinnamon, and ginger.

PRESENTATION MATTERS

The way a drink is presented can make a big difference. Use elegant or fun glassware, garnishes, and colorful ingredients to create visually stunning mocktails. A beautifully presented drink can make guests feel special and add a touch of sophistication to the event.

SIGNATURE MOCKTAILS

Just like a signature cocktail, a signature mocktail can add a personal touch to the wedding. Work with a mixologist to create a drink that reflects the couple’s tastes and the theme of the wedding. This unique touch can become a memorable part of the celebration. For instance, if the couple loves tropical flavors, a signature mocktail might feature ingredients like coconut, pineapple, and fresh mint. Naming the signature mocktail after the couple or a significant moment in their relationship can add a personal and memorable touch.

INTERACTIVE STATIONS

Consider setting up a mocktail bar where guests can customize their drinks. Provide a variety of bases, mixers, and garnishes, and let guests get creative. This interactive element can be a fun and engaging addition to the reception.

Mocktails for Kids

Weddings are family events, and kids are often excited to be part of the celebrations. Mocktails provide a fantastic way for children to join in the wedding celebrations without feeling left out.

To make these drinks appealing to kids, it's important to create mocktails with flavors that are popular among younger guests, such as strawberry, lemonade, and tropical fruit blends. Fun presentations with colorful, whimsical garnishes and playful drink stirrers can make the mocktails visually exciting. Setting up a separate mocktail station specifically for children, where they can mix their own drinks with supervision, adds an element of fun and engagement. Providing a variety of juices, sodas, and flavored syrups, along with plenty of garnishes, keeps the activity entertaining. Giving the mocktails creative names like "Pirate Punch," "Princess Fizz," or "Superhero Splash" can make the drinks even more enticing and special for the younger crowd, ensuring that kids feel included and have a memorable time at the wedding. Just don’t forget the lids!

The Broader Impact

The incorporation of mocktails into wedding celebrations is part of a broader movement towards more mindful and inclusive entertaining. By offering highquality non-alcoholic options, couples are acknowledging and respecting the diverse preferences and needs of their guests. This approach not only enhances the experience for non-drinkers but also promotes a more inclusive and considerate atmosphere.

The increasing popularity of mocktails is influencing other aspects of wedding planning. Caterers and event planners are increasingly focusing on health-conscious menu options, including plant-based and allergen-free dishes. This shift towards healthier and more inclusive choices reflects a growing awareness of the importance of catering to all guests’ needs.

As the trend towards health and inclusivity continues to grow, mocktails are set to become a staple at weddings. These sophisticated and flavorful beverages offer a way to celebrate without alcohol, ensuring that all guests feel included and valued. Whether you are a bride, groom, or wedding planner, incorporating mocktails into your celebration can enhance the experience for everyone, making your special day even morememorable. So, raise a glass of your favorite mocktail or cocktail and toast to a future where everyone has a seat at the table and a drink in their hand.

Cheers!

Here are some recipes to help you think about what Signature Mocktails and Cocktails you'd like at your own wedding. These are tried and true recipes that can easily be changed to suit your tastes and make them your own.

MOCKTAILS COCKTAILS

ROSEBERRY MULE

1 handful Blackberries

1 sprig fresh Rosemary

1 tablespoon Agave Nectar, or Honey

1 bottle Ginger Beer, to taste

1 fl oz Lime Juice

In a cocktail shaker or a highball glass, muddle blackberries and rosemary.

Add agave/honey and ice. Shake until well combined. If you do not have a cocktail shaker, simply pour back and forth between two glasses until combined. Strain mixture over ice and add ginger beer and a squeeze of lime to taste. Garnish with blackberries and a sprig of rosemary.

UNICORN PUNCH

(This one is for kids of all ages!)

2 oz Pineapple-Coconut Juice

4 oz pre-made Limeade

1/2 tablespoon Ginger Juice

1 oz Club Soda

2 tablespoons tropical-flavored Jelly Beans

Cotton Candy, for garnish

Mix the pineapple/coconut juice, limeade, ginger juice and club soda in a glass. Add jelly beans and ice. Then add a fun, colorful straw and garnish the rim with a whisp of cotton candy. Serve cold.

To make a large pitcher of Unicorn Punch, (great for a drink station) mix:

20 oz Pineapple-Coconut juice (or equal parts of each)

40 oz Limeade

5 tablespoons Ginger Juice

10 oz Club Soda

Prepare

APPLE PALMER

3 Lemon Slices, divided

2 Mint Leaves + 1 Sprig of Mint

3 oz Sparkling Apple Cider

6 oz Black Tea, at room temperature

WORLD'S BEST MARGARITA

8 oz Tequila

6 oz Grand Marnier

8 oz Lime Juice, plus more to taste

6 oz Simple Syrup (can swap out w/ fruit juice)

Salt, for the rim

Lime Wedges and garnish(es)

We prefer a "rocks glass" or tumbler over the traditional, cumbersome (and possibly messy) margarita glasses. Stir together the the Grand Marnier, tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup. Pour salt onto a shallow plate. Rim the ridge of each glass with a lime wedge, and dip in salt. Fill the glass with ice. We like ours super-shaken, so it froths a bit. Pour margarita mixture into each glass over the ice. Squeeze in a wedge of lime and garnish with something fun and pretty. Swap syrup for fruit juices like Mango or Strawberry, for different twists!

BASIL GRAPEFRUIT-TINI

2 ½ oz Vodka or Gin

1 ¼ oz Grapefruit Juice

½ oz Simple Syrup

2 Basil Leaves

Seasonal Flowers

Combine all the ingredients and one basil leaf into a shaker with ice, and shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass, over a slice of grapefruit and garnish with the remaining Basil leaf and a flower.

MAPLE OLD FASHIONED

2 oz Bourbon or Rye

3–4 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters

1/2 teaspoon real Maple Syrup

Orange Peel

Maraschino Cherries

Place 2 lemon slices and 2 mint leaves in the bottom of a glass. Add a sprinkle of ice. Use a muddler to crush lemon slices and mint against ice.

Top off glass 3/4 full with ice. Add sparkling cider to fill glass halfway. Slowly pour iced tea into glass so that it floats on top and two layers of color appear. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint. If you're into golf, you could somehow incorporate a tee with this, maybe through the lemon for a fun twist. Fore!

Find some really funky glassware. Have some fun with the names. Tie them in with memories, inside jokes or stuff you geek out about. You can make signs with your clever names so your guests will know what's in them. Need some fun, different ways to say, "Cheers!"? We've got you covered:

Vikings: Skål! (skohl) . Spanish: Salud! (sah-lood)

Use a vegetable peeler/knife to (safely) cut a 2- to 3-inch-long piece of orange peel. Run the pulp-side of the peel around the rim of the glass, then set the peel aside for later. Add the bourbon, bitters, and maple syrup to the glass, and briefly stir to combine. Add ice, then briefly stir the drink one more time to mix and chill. Give the orange peel a good twist above the glass to release its oils, then tuck it into the drink. Add 1-2 maraschino cherries (or more if desired) and serve immediately.

Irish Gaelic: Sláinte! (slahn-chuh) . French: Santé (sahn-tay)

Be safe, and always remember to drink responsibly.

individual glasses with jelly beans, ice, and cotton candy.

UR AR RI VA L

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The Art & Science of Wedding Cakes

By: Joseph & Mercedes LeBlanc Owners of Le Decorant in Williamsport

Ac classic wedding includes many rituals and symbols that create a coordinated experience and makes the event memorable. At the center is the couple, surrounded by family and friends. There is a theme for the decorations, the dresses, the entertainment, and especially the wedding cake. It is more than a cake, it will be the centerpiece of many pictures, and when the guests try their piece, it should have a satisfying flavor, texture, and presentation.

Many people can bake a simple cake, frost it, and decorate it. You can watch videos on how to decorate a cake, and they make it look easy, but it takes lots of practice and skill to get a picture-perfect wedding cake.

www.ledecorant.com

The latest trend in wedding cakes calls for three layers of cake with filling between layers, all covered in buttercream frosting, or fondant, and that makes the whole cake surprisingly heavy. At the same time, it is soft and fluffy, and cannot support another cake on top, so the lower tiers need a supporting structure, or your cake could fall sideways. Each tier has a plastic plate separating it for serving. You should never cut the upper tiers while on the cake (only for the pictures!). Take each tier to a table and then cut them. The dividing plate has columns below, and inside the cake. A professional server will know how to extract the tiers, the columns, the flowers, and cut the cake into equal portions. At Le Decorant, we include a printed cutting guide, to make sure it is cut properly, and you can get all the portions you paid for.

Mind you that some venues will charge you for cutting and plating the cake.

Delivering the cake is another whole story. A good bakery will deliver, set up your table, and leave it picture perfect. If you ever pick up a cake, drive very carefully and take every turn slowly. One jerk and the cake flies. Seriously.

There are several options available, and we have served all of them: a very large multi-tiered cake, a smaller cake with a tower of cupcakes, cake pops instead of cake, a small cake for the couple and family, surrounded by a table of mini-dessert cups like parfait cups, mousse, or cheesecakes - all very elegant and tasty.

Ideas for shapes and themes are endless and easy to get online. Bring a few pictures on your cellphone. The decorator will help you decide and tell you what is possible within your budget.

Look for a bakery who will give you a sample tasting. During that appointment you can talk about theme, colors, flavors, size, and price. Plan to spend between $400 and $1,000 on the cake table for whatever combination you decide. It is worth every penny, and it is a product everybody will consume and talk about for a long time. Don’t expect that a small cake and lots of cupcakes will be less expensive. A small cake takes as much effort and skill (maybe more) as a large cake takes to bake, decorate, handle, and deliver. Cupcakes also require time and skill.

I watched a chef once explain that he tells his customers that the cake is free of charge; you pay for the artistry and the skill. Sure, good quality ingredients are expensive, but that is not the main part of the price.

Don’t leave the wedding cake plans for the last moment. Small bakeries will request a lead time.

Finally, your day will be hectic, and you should trust your bakery to deliver a perfect table for your grand entrance.

Let them eat cake!

Curtis &Adora

“Adora, Thankyousomuchforthe wonderful jobyou didatour wedding! The music, lights, it wasall perfect.I’msoglad youwereinchargeofour timeline andwhen things needed to bedone.Itdefinitelyallowed us to relaxand just enjoyour reception, andfor that Iamtruly

Thanksagain formakingour specialday so funand

Top Ten Honeymoon Destinations & Tips

WYith a little research and proper planning, you can turn your cross-border honeymoon into a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll be talking about throughout your marriage.

Some couples prefer adventure over leisure. Others want to visit a place of their heritage, especially if they share it together. To prepare for an international honeymoon, be aware that all countries require certain documentation and identification, as well as passports. Look into these requirements now; you might need to apply and obtain these things well ahead of time to make sure you can legally make the trip.

Safety Factors

When you agree on a possible destination, safety is the next priority. There are many things that could compromise your honeymoon, so be vigilant of your location, past crime rates and any unrest that may be happening in the area of your destination.

Check with credible sources on the safety and security of the area. Another option is to ask someone you know who has been there in the past. One of the biggest factors to consider is the weather conditions. Some exotic locations are prone to tropical storms and hurricanes during the fall season. It is especially important to be aware of this while making your plans.

Safe, E ective Planning

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some types of international travel - especially to developing countries and rural areas - have higher health risks. Here are some tips from the CDC:

our honeymoon is the final aspect of your wedding plans. This part is all about celebrating your newfound love together, and many couples desire the romance and adventure of an international honeymoon. These trips require additional health and safety considerations, so make sure you do your homework. If you're having trouble choosing a destination, consider these Top 10 Honeymoon Locations in 2023 as determined by a recent survey from TLC.com.

1. The Maldives

The Maldives is like nowhere else on earth – its 26 coral atolls are renowned for their powder white sand beaches and jade seas.

2. Sicily

3. Belize

4. Newport, RI

5. Giethoorn, Netherlands

6. Galapagos Islands

7. New Orleans, LA

8. Hawaii

9. The Seychelles

10. Portugal

- Ensure that you are up to date on all your routine vaccines as well as travel vaccines.

- Make appointments with your health care provider four to six weeks before your departure date.

- Be careful what you eat and drink, and use insect repellent.

- Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcoholbased hand sanitizer.

- Avoid touching animals (we know this one can be a tough one to follow with the world just full of cute pups), especially monkeys, dogs and birds.

Most importantly remember to relax and have fun! A lot of hard work went into planning your wedding and honeymoon, so enjoy every second of it. You deserve it!

PENNSYLVANIA WEDDING OFFICIANTS

Who Can Legally Marry You?

Your big day is approaching and you and your fiancee are probably thinking about who you will want to officiate your wedding. Maybe your best friend's husband, or your Uncle Pete can do it. They're ordained online. That should be fine, right? Maybe not. Pennsylvania has some different laws than other states when it comes to getting hitched. The short answer to that is - BE CAREFUL.

Persons who have been ordained over the internet may not be persons permitted to perform marriages in Pennsylvania. A recent court decision held that persons ordained over the internet are not ministers as defined in the marriage law of Pennsylvania if they do not regularly preach to a congregation that regularly meets at a place of worship. You are advised to consult an attorney concerning the legality of such marriages.

Be advised, if you choose to be married by someone other than the officiants specifically listed as authorized by PA law, the burden of proof will be on you regarding the legality of your marriage - should future issues arise that require a determination of the marriage's validity. To be recognized as legal by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, marriages must be performed under a valid marriage license duly issued by a Clerk of Orphans’ Court & must be officiated by one of the following individuals specifically recognized under Pennsylvania law as authorized to officiate, to wit:

§ 1503. Persons qualified to solemnize marriages:

(a) General rule .-- The following are authorized to

solemnize marriages between persons that produce a marriage license issued under this part:

A justice, judge or district justice of this

A former or retired justice, judge or district

Commonwealth. (5.1) A former mayor of a city or borough of this Commonwealth who: (i) has not been defeated for

resident of this Commonwealth.

its territories or possessions, another state, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or a foreign nation; (iv) has not resigned a judicial commission to avoid having charges filed or to avoid prosecution by Federal, State or local law enforcement agencies or by the Judicial Conduct Board; (v) has not been removed from office by the Court of Judicial Discipline; and (vi) is a

3. An active or senior judge or full-time magistrate of the District Courts of the United States for the Eastern, Middle or Western District of Pennsylvania.

4. An active or senior judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit who is a resident of this Commonwealth.

5. A mayor of any city or borough of this

A minister, priest or rabbi of any regularly

For our wedding last year, my husband and

I called on a local judge from the town we were getting married in. He did an excellent job. He let us tell him what direction we wanted the ceremony to go in and the whole process was really easy. Since he was a judge, his office was on top of all the paperwork, even when I accidentally left my marriage license at home. Yes, that happened. I was two and a half hours away from home. The judge worked with us and took pity on me (one stressed out bride-to-be) in tears. I was very grateful. Thank you

If you do decide to have a friend or loved one perform the ceremony, just be sure it's within the laws laid out above. If you are unsure, call any Pennsylvania attorney versed in this kind of law, or your county's Orphans' Court and ask. You will be so glad (and likely very

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

By: Erin Eberle Owner of Eberle Images in Port Trevorton

You're newly engaged and you've started to plan your wedding. You have your venue and your date and now you're turning your attention to choosing who will document your day. There’s a lot that goes into choosing a wedding photographer, so here are some things to think about:

1. What is the style you’re going for/how do you want your wedding to be portrayed? In other words, what sort of editing do you like? Do you want Light and Airy? Dark and Moody? Truer to life? If you want a light and etherial feel, make sure that you're choosing someone whose editing style matches that.

2. What does that photographer value? Are they rockstars at fancy posing? Do they stay back a little and prefer a more candid/photojournalistic approach? Are they comfortable with Lighting a scene or do they prefer Natural Light? Have an idea of what your values are and find someone who matches those values.

3. Do you want printed products and does that photographer provide that option? It’s not an easy thing to buckle down, pick which photos you want to get printed, how you want them printed and then figure out where to go to get them printed. A full-service photographer will do that work for you and make sure to take that off your plate.

4. Do you vibe with this person? You’re going to spend most of your wedding day with them. They should make you feel comfortable and help you enjoy the day!

5. Will they help to ensure you're capturing everything that you value? Are they going to communicate with you and ask questions about your plans? Are you wanting a first look or not? How important are family formals to you? Is there anything special/traditional that they need to keep an eye out for during your ceremony? Many higher-end photographers will create a photography timeline with you based upon what you want to happen and when. You don't know how long it takes to do family formals, but we do!

So when you start venturing into the world of wedding photography, arm yourself with your preferences and know how you want your special day to look for generations to come!

Photo by: Eberle Images

ARE BRIDAL REGISTRIES a Thing of the Past?

Today's newlyweds are more likely living in a smaller space than couples of yore, and they also just don't need many of the common registry items, such as sprawling sets of fine china or silver. Eco-friendly couples may also opt to go sans-registryto keep more items out of landfills. Whatever the reason, registries aren't required anymore.

For the couple forgoing gifts of any kind, enlist the help of the parents and bridal party to spread the word that no gifts are required. Make sure to include that wording on all of your communications and plan for when people show up with gifts anyway. That means you still have to order some thank you cards.

Honeymoon fund

Another option is to have guests put money into a honeymoon fund. There are several websites out there that will set this up for you. You can also pay for the honeymoon yourselves, but ask guests to buy you experiences while on your trip, such as a wildlife excursion, concert, show, or simply a dinner at a restaurant. The top three we discovered were:

Traveler's Joy: www.travelersjoy.com

Honeyfund: www.honeyfund.com

The Knot: www.theknot.com/registry

CHARITY DONATIONS

An alternative is to ask your guests to donate to a charity. You can ask your guests to choose a charity they support, or you can pick a handful that are dear to your hearts. Don't settle for a single charity; there may be

something about that charity that could be off-putting to at least one of your guests. Let them choose where their donation goes.

CASH FUND

Some newlyweds would just prefer cold, hard cash. It can be for a new home or maybe they plan to start a family right away. The couple should give some explanation so that guests can feel warm fuzzies when they contribute, but there's nothing wrong nowadays, at the height of greedflation, with just asking for money. Just like with honeymoon registries, there are websites that can walk you through setting up a cash registry. The top three online cash registries we discovered were:

With Joy: www.withjoy.com

Zola: www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/registry

Gifted: www.thisisgifted.com/registry

Be thoughtful about what you and your partner will need, or what you really want and go for it. Communication with your guests is everything, so think about using things like QR codes to your invitations for your guests who may not be as internet savvy.

YOUR DREAM WEDDING

It’s our goal to give you, your ceremony and your reception a one-of-a-kind look that’s in harmony with your personality and lifestyle. That’s why all of our weddings are custom-made and designed through one-on-one consultations. We will work with any budget to select the best flowers and designs for your wedding.

Non-Floral Boutineers

Traditionally at weddings, women wear corsages while the groom and other men sport floral boutineers. The people wearing them often include the groomsmen, the couple's parents and grandparents and any other family members that the bride and groom want to honor. If you're not excited about pinning a flower to your lapel or wearing one on your wrist, here are some ways to put a fresh spin on the tradition.

Herbs & Fruit

Berries and herbs look elegant while still being fresh and green.

Colorful Buttons & Felt

You can make unique boutineers with an assortment of buttons or felt shapes. Felt is really fun to work with.

Tees, Empty Bullets or Shell Casings

If the bride and groom are avid golfers, tie a few colorful tees together with a bow. Are they into hunting? How about using empty bullets or spent shell casings as the base for your boutineer? Small pieces of deer antlers are very popular at the moment.

Feathers

They can be as colorful as flowers but are unexpected and whimsical.

Ornaments Made of Twigs

A shooting star, a heart or a simple wreath made of dried twigs would be eye-catching.

Paper Roses

Use sheet music, the best part of your favorite book or comic book to create paper roses.

Geek Out

It seems like everyone has a fandom these days and there's no better way to make your wedding your own by incorporating the things you geek out over. I found the coolest boutineer that had one of my favorite spaceships tucked into it, under felt flowers. What is stopping you from using your Petronus as your bouquet handle, or a Sonic Screwdriver for that matter? The possibilities are endless!

The best part about most of these options is that, unlike fresh flowers, they can be kept as souvineers of your big day.

Bridal Bouquets • Boutonnieres • Centerpieces • Ceremonial Arches • Reception Décor Book your consultation today and make your Wedding Dreams Bloom!

FAVORS FAVORITE

We asked some readers about the best favors they've received, or recently gave at their own wedding that were a hit. Here are the best of the best.

- "I was in the wedding of a friend who was an avid reader. She gave every guest (as well as every member of the bridal party) a book that she felt reflected her relationship with them. I thought it was a really sweet gesture and appreciated how personable it was."

- "We gave scratch-off lottery tickets in little bags with stickers saying our names, the date, and “for richer or poorer”. None were left behind!"

"A small jar of jam. It said something like 'Thanks for jamming with us!' and had the names, date, etc. the usual stuff. They made the jam themselves, and it was so good!"

- "My husband always has a bandana hanging out of his back pocket, and my dress had subtle paisley print. We worked with a friend who is an art director and designed a custom bandana with a bunch of our favorite things hiding in it. I had no idea how well they would go over. Everyone loved them, and I see my friends wearing them about all the time."

"Personalized wine glass/drink charms. They were our names bent into little wire charms with a gem or pearl. It's how we figured out what table we were asssigned to at the wedding. I still use mine at home and get compliments."

- "One wedding I went to gave out little cedar saplings, so you could watch the tree grow along with their love. If I hadn’t had to move far away, I’d still have it."

"Throwing axes! They had an axe throwing booth at the wedding and it was a blast! I have the hatchet in my car for emergencies now. Great favor!"

- "My husband and I had our wedding in the woods at our cabin and I designed little pins and stickers that looked like merit badges from Scouts. I ended up wishing I'd ordered way more because they were a hit."

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- Bubbles

- Matches

- Can Koozies

- Flasks

- Jordan Almonds

Favors FallinG out of Favor

Honorable Mention

Entries From Our

Cover Contest Honorable Mention

Above: Derrick & McKenzie Cook Photographer: Jamie Lee Photography

Left: Courtney Caszatt Photographer: 3 Dogs Photography

Bottom Left: Sydney and Colton Riley Photographer: Lewisburg Studio

Bottom Right: Kyle & Danielle Shirk Photographer: Reflective Light Photography There were so many beautiful photos to choose from this year!

Go to: https://sites.google.com/view/insidepennsylvania-weddings/home to see all the submissions.

Congratulations to all the Newlyweds!