EJC Wedding Guide

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Eastern Jackson County

GUIDE

C I T AN Y M RO EAUTST B THE LATOEWNS HG

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Saturday, February 17, 2018

The Examiner

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Unforgettable . . .

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Table of Contents Hereford House/Hilton Garden Inn...............................................................Page 2 How to Shop Bridal Sample Sales..............................................................Page 4 Plowboys Barbecue Catering.......................................................................Page 4 Romantic Beauty - Trends in Bridal Gowns..............................................Page 5 More Dresses, More Dreams.......................................................................Page 6 Hot Mamas - Tips for the Mothers of the Bride or Groom.........................Page 7 Groom’s Guide to Looking Good................................................................Page 8 Wedding Expressions by Geri......................................................................Page 9 Wedding Costs - What to Expect................................................................Page 10 Serious Wedding Style for Short Hair......................................................Page 11 The Veil KC - Wedding Planning................................................................Page 11 Stealing the Show - Ring Bearers & Flower Girls...............................Page 12-13 Did You Know? ..........................................................................................Page 14 Fosters Cleaners & Short Laundry.............................................................Page 14 Women of Distinction Awards...................................................................Page 14 Wedding Cake Trends...............................................................................Page 15 Wedding Cake Trends (Continued)..........................................................Page 16 Living Centerpieces...................................................................................Page 17 Sinclair’s Restaurant..................................................................................Page 17 Transportation Trends.............................................................................Page 18 Adam’s Mark Hotel & Conference Center.................................................Page 18 EZ Dancing.................................................................................................Page 18 Seating Wedding Guests............................................................................Page 19 Acquaint Gathering....................................................................................Page 19 Wedding Insurance - Is it worth it?..........................................................Page 20 Maintaining Honeymoon Beauty.............................................................Page 21 Invitation Etiquette...................................................................................Page 22 Unity Village...............................................................................................Page 23 Village Gardens..........................................................................................Page 24

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

HOW TO SHOP A BRIDAL SAMPLE SALE Eastern Jackson County

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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GUIDE

inding a wedding gown is tricky, and shopping a sample sale is even trickier. But, it can be worth it if you’re a budget-savvy bride.

“Shopping at a sample sale allows you to get a designer wedding dress at a major discount. Many times bridal salons will sell their gently-used gowns for over 50 percent off the retail price,” said Jessica Bishop, founder of TheBudgetSavvyBride.com.

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The Eastern Jackson County Wedding Guide is created annually by GateHouse Media LLC, and is distributed with various newspapers across the country and by King Features. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the management of the publication.

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w Bring help “It’s always helpful to bring someone with you to shop for wedding gowns, if not just to offer opinions but also to help in getting in and out of the dresses. Most wedding gowns have layers of fabric or are more substantial and heavy than regular clothing, so you’ll likely need help trying them on,” Bishop said.

w Have a vision “Know the types of styles you look best in or are most interested in trying, but stay open-minded to possibilities. You might just discover your favorite dress is a style you never would’ve tried on. It’s also important to know your budget so you don’t fall in love with a dress that’s too pricey for you,” Bishop said. w Be prepared “Bring a pair of shoes at a similar heel height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day.

The types of undergarments you’ll need to wear will depend on the dress style you choose, but it’s a good idea to bring a regular bra, a strapless bra and perhaps some Spanx,” she said. w Designer deals “If you’re interested in a particular designer’s gowns, visit their website to find local stockists in your area. Then call and inquire about when they typically run their sample sales so you can be in-the-know and take advantage of those deals,” Bishop said.

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ROMANTIC

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

beauty

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emininity and romance are trending for bridal gowns along with soft hues, body-hugging silhouettes, exquisite details and high-style elements.

“It’s all about the romance,” Jessica McGuinn, spokeswomann for BHLDN, Anthropologie’s bridal line.

“Impossibly dreamy, feminine and frothy silhouettes are key. Think all-over lace, fuller tulle skirts and delicate blossoms throughout.” w Two pieces Many brides are requesting bridal separates such as tops and skirts worn together to look like a one-piece dress, said Nicole Kwoh, head of experience for Lace & Liberty, an online luxury-custom wedding gown boutique.

“Brides can then have more control over the design of their dress by choosing a neckline and then selecting a skirt. Separates can offer more comfort than a one-piece gown, allowing more movement,” Kwoh said. “Some brides re-wear their top or skirt after the wedding for another occasion.”

“Impossibly dreamy, feminine and frothy silhouettes are key. Think all-over lace, fuller tulle skirts and delicate blossoms throughout.”

Jessica McGuinn

on the upswing. Undeniably glamorous and luxuriously warm, these pieces help create a dynamic, ethereal look that will keep her warm while also maintaining an air of mystery,” McGuinn said.

“Brides also love a gown with sleeve interest, whether it be bohemian bell sleeves, flutter cap sleeves or a great off-the-shoulder style,” McGuinn said. w Blushing brides Not all brides yearn for a white or ivory gown.

“We have brides who want dresses all over the board like black, mustard yellow and light green,” Kwoh said.

Tulle, chiffon and organza skirts can be custom-colored.

“The most popular requests are blue gray, light blue and blush,” she said.

While blush is the safest and most popular option, McGuinn said, brides are choosing apricot, gray and even metallic styles. w No to the gown Modern brides are ditching

w Covering up “We get lots of brides who want the soft, romantic boho look without the actual see-through components of a naked dress, high slit or dramatic crop top,” Kwoh said. Long-sleeve lace tops, illusion necklines or nude mesh lining give a look an ethereal sense without actually being see-through, she said.

For the winter bride looking for a bit more coverage, “fur wraps are definitely

Trends in bridal gowns

ballgowns and choosing more casual, shorter-length dresses.

“From the bride who wants to keep things small to the bride who wants to change three times before her wedding day is over,” these dresses are transitional, McGuinn said. “These styles come in the form of the perfect tea-length gown, flirty LWD (little white dress) or even sophisticated separates. There’s no right or wrong way to wear them.”

Brides are “moving away from the ballgown look for the reception, but they want the white dress experience for the ceremony. We find that they’ll opt for a little white dress with a slimmer fit, like a sheath, and then wear a bigger skirt like our Celebration skirt over it. They’ll be able to take photos with the fuller skirt on. Then, they remove the outer skirt to wear the short dress during the reception,” Kwoh said. w Attention to detail It’s all about dimensional blossoms, all-over sequins and perfectly placed lace, McGuinn said.

“We’re also seeing increased interest in pearl accents and bigger bows,” she said.

Toppers, capes and capelets “are beautiful additions to a dress that the bride can remove from ceremony to reception,” Kwoh said. “It’s a traditional piece with an incredible modern vibe.” w Renting the dress Many brides opt to rent because they want a high-quality dress that they love without the sentimentality of keeping it, Kwoh said. For example, Lace & Liberty allows brides to fall in love with a dress and rent it for three days for their wedding.

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

DRESSES more DREAMS more

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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he bridal industry has long ignored curvy women who don’t fit into a size 6 gown. But now designers are becoming more inclusive, hoping to attract more customers and even simply do the right thing.

“I have a sense of purpose in the fashion industry as a brand to celebrate people as how they are rather than how they are perceived that they should be,” said designer Rebecca Schoneveld of Rebecca Schoneveld Bridal, based in Brooklyn. w Size-inclusive fashion While the bridal industry has always included some options for plus-size brides, “the designer brands tended to lag behind,” said Don O’Neill, creative director of THEIA Bridal. Things are changing “with the introduction of curvier models on the runways, kicking to the curb the fashion runway stereotype that women have to be size 2 to look good. A door has been opened, and more designer brands are embracing the plus-size woman,” O’Neill said.

At the fall 2018 Bridal Week, THEIA and Rebecca Schoneveld were two of the four brands that used

REBECCA SCHONEVELD GOWN, IMAGE BY MONICA BADDAR

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plus-size models on the runway, according to Fashionista.com.

“Style is not a size,” Schoneveld said.

The average American women is

a size 16, Schoneveld said. Yet, “size 10 has been the industry’s standard for brides to try on,” O’Neill said.

“It can be embarrassing and intimidating for women” to enter

a dressing room with a gown they know will not fit, Schoneveld said.

The Rebecca Schoneveld collection is available in sizes 00 to 30. The THEIA collection’s larger sizes, to 20W, are available at Lovely Bride stores. w Shopping tips When shopping, “the advice is the same for all girls — bring a trusted companion, not an entourage. Try on everything that the sales girls suggest — they are experts — and then let your heart speak to you,” O’Neill said.

Look for styles that “define your curves and let the fabric flow” around the parts of your body you may want to hide, Schoneveld said.

“A fuller figure comes in many shapes, and girls already know what they look best in (for the most part),” O’Neill said. “V necks are always flattering for a fuller bust. Heavily-beaded gowns are awesome on curvaceous hourglass figures.”

Since many women are unhappy with their upper arms, try looks with sleeves (long, sheer, flutter), which are trending now, Schoneveld said.

“It’s your special day. Don’t be afraid to embrace the dress of your dreams,” O’Neill said. “Dress for you and your future husband and not to please Aunty Mary and Mrs. Jones across the street.”

HOT MAMAS

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Tips for the mother of the bride or groom

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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SIMPLYDRESSES.COM

s mother of the bride or groom, you’ve done your part to get your son or daughter ready for the life that lies ahead. On the wedding day, your dress should be fabulous and flattering, because you are a big part of this milestone moment.

When shopping, it’s customary to consider what the bride and groom’s vision is for the event so that you will blend in. Additionally, great fit makes all the difference.

“Being able to have fun and dance and not being constrained by an uncomfortable dress is key. You want to look and feel your best,” said Stephanie Mahoney, spokeswoman for SimplyDresses.com.

Traditionally for the mother of the bride, black is shunned and red deemed too flashy, but really there are no hard-and-fast rules. These days, there is no typical mother of the bride dress, Mahoney said.

“I think the main rule is to stay away from ivory and white and any styling that may resemble bridal,” said Mahoney. “Keeping the dress age-appropriate is definitely important and knowing what works best for your body, because yes, the bride is the star of the day, but mothers of the bride are also very important and they should feel special and beautiful.

“Styling for mothers has evolved so much over the last few years that now there is so much more to choose

“I think the main rule is to stay away from ivory and white and any styling that may resemble bridal.

Keeping the dress age-appropriate is definitely important and knowing what works best for your body, because yes, the bride is the star of the day, but mothers of the bride are also very important and they should feel special and beautiful.

Stephanie Mahoney

from depending on your personal style.

We used to think of the classic taffeta jacket dress when it came to mothers of the bride, but now sleeves, beading and lace are very on trend. ... Sleeves are the biggest trend in this category.

This can range from cap sleeves to long sleeves and still give that elegant yet age-appropriate feel,” Mahoney said.

Moms should not feel that they need to be too conservative, either, Mahoney said. If you’ve got a great figure, show it off, as long as it compliments the wedding’s vibe.

Be yourself and be confident.

“An off-the-shoulder or sleeveless fitted gown with some embellishments or lace would be a great choice for a mom that has a terrific figure,” Mahoney said. Cinched waistlines, cross-over bodices and see-through bateau necklines all flatter a woman’s body, while sleeves in a variety of styles like three-quarter, full length, flutter or statement are all about drawing attention (and hiding what you want hidden).

As for necklines, stay on trend with a boat neck, high neck, V neck or off-the-shoulder, Mahoney said.

Steer clear of halter-style necklines, which are more dated.

Avoid stand-out colors and vibrant prints, “but at the same time it’s a personal preference, and it also depends on the bride and her expectations. Some brides love when the mother of the bride coordinates with the bridal party, so they may choose to blend the colors or prints in with the bridesmaids. It is all personal preference of both the mother and of the bride,” Mahoney said.

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

A GROOM’S GUIDE to looking good

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By Melissa Erickson

“The key is to shop at a location where they are experts in what they do,” he said.

Take your time when shopping.

Be open to trying on a few things before deciding what you feel comfortable in. Listen to advice from the experts, who can help you decide what you look good in, he said.

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ere comes the … groom.

When it comes to wedding fashion it’s not all about the wedding gown.

He’s got to look good, too.

“He’s got two main reasons to look good. One, he’s the groom and he needs to look the part. Two, he also wants to look good for his bride,” said menswear designer Joseph Abboud, chief creative director of Men’s Wearhouse.

These days brides and grooms try to “blend” with each other and the wedding party rather than appear to match, Abboud said.

“It’s all about how they blend, from the color, type of wedding, formal or casual, and location,” he said. w Fit is everything While everyone is eyeing the bride, the groom is still going to get attention.

“No matter what, fit is everything. It takes a look from good to great. Whether you rent or buy or have it custom-made,” make sure your tuxedo or suit is fitted well, Abboud said.

“No matter what, fit is everything. It takes a look from good to great.

Whether you rent or buy or have it custom-made,” make sure your tuxedo or suit is fitted well.

Joseph Abboud

w Staying in style If a man is paying attention to what celebrities are wearing on the red carpet, they’ll know that slim-fit tuxedos and flat-front pants give a man a modern, tailored look. For the man who can carry it off, there’s even extreme slim-fit that’s a little edgier.

Designers are also playing with lapel styles and number of buttons. Some of the popular choices are two-button jackets with a notched lapel, two-button jackets with a peaked lapel, one-buttons with peak lapel and one-buttons with shawl lapel.

The rules about color have loosened up, but Abboud is a fan of traditional looks in black, white or ivory.

“I’m not a big color guy. A dark navy could be beautiful. It depends on the individual,” he said. If a man wants to stand out in blues, grays, tans, charcoal or even burgundy, he will

have no trouble buying that look.

But make sure it fits with the overall aesthetic. If the bride’s blinged out in an over-the-top gown, “a white or black tux is the perfect blend,” Abboud said. If she’s wearing ivory or other seasonal color, a linen dinner jacket would be a good choice. w Bow ties are big The biggest hitter in the accessories department is the bow tie, which “is making a great comeback. It looks appropriate with formal or casual,” Abboud said.

Instead of opting for pre-tied, “learn to tie your own. You’ll look better, more personalized,” Abboud said.

Another element to play around with is the boutonniere. A great suit or tuxedo looks perfect on its own, and some men may opt to skip the flower.

“A subtle, white flower is an extra detail that’s traditional” and elevates a groom, Abboud said.

One last piece of advice: Make sure the groom stands out from the groomsmen. That can be as easy as wearing a vest while the others don’t or wearing a white vest, Abboud said. “You don’t want to see eight great-looking guys and wonder which one’s the groom.”

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

WEDDING what to expect COSTS

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ewly engaged couples may experience an array of emotions when they sit down to plan their weddings. Some couples cannot wait to jump into planning and want to catalog every aspect of the process, while others may proceed with caution because they don’t know what to expect — particularly in regard to cost.

Many couples find it difficult to create their wedding budgets because they have no previous experience to draw on. The wedding planning advisor CostofWedding. com indicates the average wedding cost in the United States is $26,720, with most people spending between $20,000 and $34,000. Seventh Heaven Event Catering states that, in Canada, the average wedding costs around $30,000. Such

costs can vary greatly depending on couples’ preferences, including where they hope to tie the knot. By breaking down wedding expenses, couples can get a clearer picture of how much they may need to pay for their weddings and where they may need to cut costs.

Reception site: According to The Knot, a premiere wedding planning resource, couples can expect their receptions to eat up the largest chunk of their wedding budgets.

Wedding reception venues may cost between $10,000 and $15,000.

The average price for catering per person is roughly $70. Bar service may be around $2,000 for a threeto four-hour party. Some reception sites combine the room cost with the food and beverage costs, while others have à la carte fees.

Cake: Wedding cakes tend to be multi-tiered intricate designs, so they will cost more than birthday cakes. According to Statistics Brain, wedding dessert will come in around $390.

Music: The Knot says wedding bands cost around $3,500, which is more than twice as much as hiring a deejay ($1,200).

Soloists or ceremony musicians may cost around $650.

Wedding planner: Many couples employ wedding planners to make planning their weddings easier.

Wedding planners cost an average of $1,300, says Thumbtack, a company that matches professionals with people who require their services.

Transportation: Limousines and other transportation prices vary depending on the vehicle(s) couples

choose. The Knot notes that budgeting between $400 and $500 for transportation might be wise.

Wedding gown: Brides-to-be should expect their gowns to cost around $1,100 and the veil or headpiece to be roughly $120, according to the Association of Bridal Consultants.

Photography and Video: Preserving wedding day memories costs around $2,800 for video and photography services, based on data from Statistics Brain.

The smaller details, such as accessories, gifts, officiant fees, stationery, spa services, and favors can quickly add up as well. Couples should be sure to leave some wiggle room in their budgets for incidental expenses that may pop up.

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

SERIOUS WEDDING STYLE for short haired brides

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n a day when all eyes and cameras will be trained on them, it’s natural for brides and grooms tying the knot to want to look their best.

As a result, many couples invest a portion of their budgets into spa and beauty treatments, with many even hiring salon stylists to ensure their wedding-day looks are flawless.

Women with short hair may lament that they do not have many options when styling their hair for their wedding days. Some may even consider growing out their locks.

However, plenty of creative styles exist for ladies without long locks. w Experiment with color One way to “tress to impress” is to experiment with some color.

Well-placed highlights, balayage treatments, ombre, or peek-a-boo underlights can add an extra spark to a bride’s normal hairstyle. Speak with a qualified stylist about what you plan to achieve with a wedding-day look, so color can be applied correctly. w Retro glamour Brides may want to harken back to an era when glamour

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Color, embellishments, retro styles, and clever up-dos can set short bridal hairstyles apart.

reigned supreme. Replicate one of the short styles of the 1940s or 1950s, paying homage to Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, or Judy Garland. w Braids and plaits Braids can add whimsy to shoulder-length or shorter hair. In addition, braids can anchor short locks when an up-do is desired.

Braids can be placed into the front or rear crown of the head to look like a hair halo or crown.

to manipulate hair effectively to create this look. Small tendrils of hair can be left free and curled for a less structured, more natural effect.

Brides-to-be with short hair do not need to fret nor make drastic changes

to their hairstyles to look beautiful on their wedding days. Short hair can be manipulated into many camera-ready creations.

The Veil KC

w Use embellishments If short hair cannot be gathered into a braid or bun, you can opt for adorned pins, barrettes or headbands to add a touch of sparkle to the look. Ask a stylist to tease the crown of your hair to achieve a little more height and impact. w Half-up style Many women with short hair find that using bobby pins to pin up select areas of their hair can help achieve a partial up-do look without the need for longer locks.

Experienced stylists will know how

Set appointments online

theveilkc.com - 913-890-3295

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

STEA

the sh

Creative ideas for rin

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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oung honor attendants draw oohhs and aahhs from wedding guests, but they can be more creative than simply standard ring bearers or flower girls.

“Most couples today are constantly looking for small ways to make their wedding more personal and to tell their own story instead of using what is considered traditional, and this certainly doesn’t stop with details such as the traditional ring bearer pillow and flower girl basket,” said Lisa Pleasant, owner of Lisa Pleasant Events, serving Charlotte and Asheville, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas.

“We have sent little ones down the aisle carrying candles to be lit up front, lanterns, flower purses or simply smaller versions of the attendants’ bouquets. Our favorites, however, have been the ones with sentimental value — a grandmother’s jewelry box with love letters the couple have written, a favorite Harry Potter book with rings tied to a bookmark ribbon, an engraved wooden box with mementos from their childhoods or rings tied to a shell that the groom used to propose. These details all come together to tell the unique story of the couple,” Pleasant said.

“Using something whimsical and fun can match

your wedding style while letting the little ones be little ones,” said Samie Roberts, owner of Something Perfect in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Remember, this is the last thing your guests will see before seeing the bride, so make it something memorable.”

Try some of these clever alternatives from expert wedding planners:

w Ring security The ring bearer is carrying precious cargo, so make him dress the part as ring security, said Donchell Johnson, owner of New Jersey’s Weddings2Plan. Dressed in black suits like security guards with sunglasses and ear pieces, they can carry the rings down the aisle in stainless steel cases. w Family pets “If there are animals involved — doggy ring bearers, for instance — and they are well-behaved, the little attendants can often be in charge of guiding them down the aisle as well. If there are kids who can’t walk down, older kids may be able to pull them down the aisle in a decorated wagon,” said Emilie Duncan, owner of Emilie Duncan Event Planning in Columbus, Ohio. w Flower fairies Flower girls can carry wands made of real flowers or paper, which is really trending now,

ALING

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

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how

ng bearers, flower girls

and wear wings to become flower fairies, said Duncan.

PHOTOS: BIGSTOCK/WEDDINGS2PLAN

w Infinity circles Circles are a symbol of infinite love and a fitting choice for a wedding. One bride getting married this spring will have her young attendant carry an embroidery hoop decorated with flowers as well as other hoop decor incorporated in the wedding, said Cherie Riley of Southern California’s Cherie Riley Weddings.

The hoop will be filled with olive and lavender that are native to the ranch the couple is getting married at, as well as natural blush and sage green colors with streaming ivory ribbons. w Introducing ...

“A sign announcing ‘here comes the bride,’ a large balloon, entering in a wagon/pulling a wagon, walking the bride/groom’s dog — all add a bit of whimsy and playfulness to a ceremony and make for fab pictures and sweet memories for the bride and groom, the child and the guests,” said Adrianne Mellen Ramstack, owner and lead planner at Adrianne Elizabeth Events, Columbus, Ohio. w Balloons For a cute idea “create a ‘balloonzilla’ with different items inside such as floral or greenery, tulle and anything that works with your

wedding,” said Desi Wojtowicz, owner of Las Vegas’ Desirable Events by Desi. w Outside the box “For the ring bearer, consider having a box made that matches your wedding style with your initials on it so it’s a keepsake. Or have him carry another alternative like a book with pages cut out for your ring, a cute stuffed animal with the rings tied around its neck, a small suitcase, a mini potted succulent, or even a geometric-shaped container that matches your wedding décor,” Roberts said. w Get personal Instead of rose petals, have the flower girl toss something more personal, such as sprinkles for a bride who owns a cupcake shop, said Kate Lewis, wedding and event planner at Mountain View Vineyard, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

“At my own wedding, my ring bearer carried a copy of ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’ down the aisle because that was one of my favorite books growing up. My aunt later read an except from the book as a part of the ceremony,” she said. “​Another idea for your flower girl is to have her toss something season-appropriate down the aisle, like glittered ‘snow’ for a winter wedding or dried lavender for the summer. The added bonus of the lavender is that as you step on the flowers, it releases the most amazing scent in the air,” Lewis said.

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Did you know?

S

ince Ancient Roman times, June has been a popular month for couples to tie the knot. The month’s namesake, the goddess Juno, was said to be the protector of women in every aspect, but most notably in regard to marriage and childbearing.

Therefore, it made sense to get married and take the first step toward creating a family in June. For practical reasons, June also has been a prime month for marriage because the month is neither especially hot nor especially cold in many areas of the world. While dressed in formal-wear — whether having an outdoor wedding or an indoor one — no one wants to be overheated or uncomfortably cold.

While June is a still a popular month to get married, the wedding resource The Knot indicates that autumn, in particular the months of September and October, has overtaken summer as the most popular wedding season. Warmer-than-average temperatures in autumn over the last few years as well as a dazzling display of natural color help make the fall a popular time for nuptials. Interestingly enough, perhaps due to a slightly cooler climate, a 2015 survey from Wedding Bells found August to be the most popular month to get married in Canada, and that 67 percent of weddings in Canada that year occurred between June and September.

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By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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edding cakes play a traditional part on the big day as a backdrop for photos, as a fun and interactive part of the reception, and hopefully, a tasty treat at the end of the night.

Big, beautiful, tiered wedding cakes are making a comeback.

“We have done every kind of wedding cake imaginable,” said chef Mindy Gohr, chef and co-owner of Bittersweet Pastry Shop and Cafe, Chicago.

“Overwhelmingly, couples these days are opting for the classic wedding cake silhouette; that is, the three-tiered round.”

It may be traditional in shape, but it’s anything but old-fashioned.

“The cake might be topped with fresh flowers or ribbon-like layers of buttercream or even the Chicago skyline. Cakes are something that a couple can get really creative with at their wedding,” Gohr said.

Other prevalent trends are white-on-white, textured buttercream and lace, said Jessica Haskell, owner of Sweet Surrender in Louisville, Kentucky.

Even more inventive are barely-dressed cakes.

“These are cakes that are given a scratch (thin) coat of buttercream icing with the cake still being visible within the icing. A lot of times couples choose to have either sculpted fondant flowers, fresh flowers or fruit such as figs, pomegranates, blackberries, etc.,

WEDDING trends CAKE

scattered on the cake,” said Chad Weldon, owner of The Master’s Baker, Chester, Pennsylvania. w Color and texture “One of our favorite trends is moody florals: Darker jewel tones, deeper hues,” said Amy Berman, founder of Vanilla Bake Shop, with three locations in Pasadena, Santa Monica and Los Angeles International Airport, California. “These are in line with fashion trends now, interior design

elements and food becoming more natural and authentic.”

“We are seeing more and more heavily textured cakes.

Bas relief has become very popular in the past year,” said pastry chef Tiffany MacIsaac, owner of Buttercream Bakeshop in Washington, D.C. “Trending in 2017 were pops of color,” said Stacey León, partner, Butterfly CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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PHOTOS FROM BUTTERCREAM BAKESHOP (CENTER AND LOWER RIGHT) AND THE MASTER’S BAKER

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

New York City. “Marble fondant and watercolor buttercream were popular techniques that brought color into play.

Gold was another big trend ... In 2018 unstructured painted gold looks to be trending,” she said. w Part of the indulgence “The cake used to be the only dessert at a wedding, but now many couples are opting to do a sweets table as well,” Gohr said. “Some couples do opt to do smaller wedding cakes, but they rarely completely go away because the cake-cutting at a wedding is such a special moment, and always a beautiful photo op.”

“We are seeing a trend with smaller wedding cakes and then having a full dessert bar such as mini pies, doughnuts, cannolis, truffles, etc., to give their guests a lot of options. A lot of couples are also ordering a small gluten-free, dairy-free and other allergen-free cakes and desserts to accommodate all their guests,” Weldon said.

Another way wedding cakes have evolved is that they have become more delicious. No more dry cake with stiff, sugary icing.

“Now wedding cakes taste as good as any dessert around,” Gohr said. Chefs whip up “some incredible flavor combinations like almond strawberry brulee (almond butter cake layered with vanilla bean creme brulee and homemade strawberry preserves) and chocolate hazelnut (hazelnut butter cake layered with hazelnut buttercream and finished with a chocolate glaze).

This is where the three-tier cake wins big because you can have a different flavor combination for each layer,” Gohr said.

PHOTOS FROM BUTTERCREAM BAKESHOP (TOP RIGHT AND LOWER LEFT) AND THE MASTER’S BAKER

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

LIVING CENTERPIECES set receptions apart

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eddings are special occasions for all involved.

Guests may look forward to the ceremony and festivities to follow, and couples who are hosting do not want to disappoint. Brides and grooms often look for new and innovative ideas to set their weddings apart from ones they may have attended in the past.

While budget often determines what couples can and can’t do at their wedding receptions, brides- and grooms-to-be can prioritize certain components if they are looking to impress.

Centerpieces is one aspect of the reception where couples can get creative without breaking the bank.

Flowers are popular centerpieces at weddings. But even with cost-cutting measures, such as choosing in-season blooms, bumping up the filler-to-flower ratio and opting for low-profile centerpieces instead of towering alternatives, couples can expect to pay around $2,000 on wedding flowers, offers The Knot, a go-to resource for wedding planning. But opting for the following clever living centerpiece alternatives might not only impress guests, but also do so on budget.

Choose potted plants. Potted plants can serve as both favors and reception centerpieces. Live plants also can be an eco-conscious decision for couples who are interested in incorporating “green” elements

into their weddings. Couples tying the knot in the autumn can place mums inside of a hollowed pumpkin or gourd. Spring and summer weddings can be enhanced by miniature rose bushes. Winter weddings may be dressed up with small evergreen trees or potted holly.

Marine life draws attention. Couples can opt for inexpensive freshwater fish to add ambiance and a focal point for the reception tables. Small goldfish bowls can be decorated with gravel that matches the color of the wedding theme. One lucky guest at each table can take home the miniature aquarium after the festivities.

Butterflies are whimsical. Some cultures or religions view butterflies as a symbol of endurance, change, hope, and vitality. Incorporating butterflies into reception centerpieces can make guests feel like they are stepping into a living garden. Small, mesh-lined cages filled with foliage and butterflies might add that special touch.

Living centerpieces offer something different from floral centerpieces. However, because live plants and animals may be part of the display, couples need to account for their welfare. This means ensuring they will be cared for after the wedding, or in the event of butterflies, released into the evening sky.

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

C Couples are trending away from traditional stretch limousines and renting something more trendy, such as limos built upon sports cars.

WEDDING

TRANSPORTATION

TRENDS

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ouples planning their weddings routinely rely on professional transportation to bring them to and from the ceremony and reception. According to The Knot Real Weddings Study 2016, roughly half of all engaged couples will hire a transportation service such as a limousine or party bus for their weddings.

Wedding transportation options abound, and some are more popular than others. The following are some of the ways couples are getting to the altar on time. w Shuttles and buses: Investing in the guest experience means couples are seeking ways to provide comfort and convenience for their guests and wedding party members. Rather than asking guests to get themselves to and fro, couples may employ buses or shuttles stocked with amenities to transport a greater number of people. The Real Weddings Study indicates this type of transport has grown considerably more popular in the last six years. w Exotic limousines: The chauffeur-driven limousine continues to be one of the most popular methods of transportation. However, to set their weddings apart, couples are trending

away from traditional stretch limousines and renting something more trendy, such as limos built upon sports cars. SUV-based limos are still popular, with Hummers, Escalades and Navigators offering the wow factor. w Vintage cars: For that A-list look right out of a classic movie, stepping out of a vintage vehicle creates red-carpet moments. Dream cars for this type of glamorous arrival and departure include Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and others. Many private companies rent classic vehicles. Couples also may contract with those who attend classic car shows. w Water transport: Couples celebrating by the ocean, a lake or a river can make a grand entrance aboard a vessel.

Water taxis, pontoon boats and even sleek speedboats may be the transportation of choice.

The Knot says that couples spend around 6.5 months researching their wedding day transportation options and will make their decision and a reservation five months before their weddings. The more exotic the transportation option, the earlier couples should make their decisions to ensure they can book their first choice.

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

19

SEATING WEDDING

GUESTS

a classic, vintage venue 512 Capelle, Grain Valley, MO (816) 598-6001 | www.aquaintgathering.com Make any event special in our turn of the century, lovingly restored chapel.

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eceptions may be big or small, lavish or casual. But regardless of their size or style, receptions all share a common element: They will require couples set up seating arrangement for guests.

Even though assigned seating isn’t mandatory, selecting seats for a sitdown dinner makes things simpler and reduces confusion. Some reception venues may even require assigned seating so that catering staff can service tables accordingly.

Seating guests can be tricky, but employing a few strategies can make the process go quickly and smoothly. w Use a seating chart. A seating chart, whether it’s venue-specific or one couples make themselves, is essential. If you using a self-made chart, inquire with the venue about the shape of tables, how many guests each table can seat, and the location of tables around the space.

Start with the wedding party table.

Couples can ease themselves into the task of seating by doing the easy tables first. The primary one is the wedding party table. This traditionally can be a dais or a sweetheart table flanked by the wedding party. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, the table should be centrally located and the wedding couple should sit in the middle. A male-female pattern follows on either

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Enjoy the convenience of multiple accommodations minutes from our charming chapel for your out-of-town guests.

side of the couple, consisting of the ushers, bridesmaids, best man, and maid of honor. If much of the wedding party is already married, couples may opt to have the wedding party sit with their spouses instead of at the dais.

Organize family tables. Tables for parents, grandparents and immediate family members of the bride and groom also are high priority. Both families can be combined at one table, or they can be separated into two tables. These tables should be the closest to the bride and groom. w Consider mobility issues. Next seat guests who have specific needs at tables. Elderly guests may want to be away from the band, deejay or speakers. Guests in wheelchairs may need an accessible seat near the exit.

Get some help. Enlist the help of parents to seat their friends and extended family members. Parents may know best who gets along and who should be separated.

Seat dancers near the dance floor. To encourage dancing, place guests who tend to be lively close to the dance floor so others can see them getting up to dance and join in. w Couples can use apps, lists or self-made charts to plot their reception seating arrangements. Create place cards or a central chart so guests can find their seats promptly and easily.

Enjoy the option and cost saving of arranging your own catering andalcohol service for your special event.

Not only is this place a cozy and historic spot to hold your event, we also provide tables, chairs, tablecloths full setup and cleanup.

We would love to show you our quaint facility, please feel free to call if you would like to come by and take a look!

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

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Is wedding insurance worth it?

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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ith so much effort, planning and expectation, weddings don’t always come off as perfectly as imagined. Wilted flowers, dropped cakes and missing DJs are just some of the headaches brides and grooms may have to deal with. Wedding insurance is one way to protect yourself and your wedding dollars.

“Anyone who is spending a significant amount of money on their wedding should insure their event,” said Sperry Mylott, spokesman for the Travelers Companies.

“It’s not just the wedding ceremony you’re insuring.

Wedding insurance covers the complete celebration

— the rehearsal dinner, reception and even the nextday brunch (in most states).”

The Wedding Report estimates that the average cost of a wedding is approximately $26,000, but the price tag can be much higher in certain areas.

“In the New York City area, for example, where it can cost more than $70,000 to get married, who would make that large of an investment without insuring it?” Mylott asked.

Vendor problems top the list of wedding-related insurance claims, according to the Travelers Companies, which marked its 10th anniversary of offering wedding insurance by highlighting a decade’s worth of wedding costs and claims trends.

One-third of vendor issues

“For couples who are planning a wedding, we recommend researching vendors thoroughly before placing deposits. Check with the Better Business Bureau for reviews.

And ask for references.”

Sperry Mylott

involved venues that closed unexpectedly or couldn’t accommodate the wedding as promised. Twenty percent of all vendor-related claims were caused by photographers failing to deliver agreed-upon photos, videos or other services. Weather issues accounted for just 9 percent of claims on average over the past decade, but in 2012 it made up 20 percent of all wedding insurance claims. w How it works Couples can add liability coverage to their core coverage plan, which many venues require in case someone at the wedding is injured or causes damage to property of others.

Wedding insurance can be purchased up to two years before your wedding, and

as late as 24 hours before your wedding in most states, but it’s best not to wait — many insurers require a policy purchase 14 days prior to the wedding to cover weather-related events, Mylott said. w How much it costs For such a big event, plans can be as affordable as $160, Mylott said.

Be sure to check if your policy carries a deductible (Travelers’ doesn’t).

“For couples who are planning a wedding, we recommend researching vendors thoroughly before placing deposits. Check with the Better Business Bureau for reviews. And ask for references,” Mylott said.

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

21

MAINTAINING beauty HONEYMOON

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ccording to TripSavvy, 99 percent of couples who choose to have traditional weddings take a honeymoon. Around 1.4 million couples in the United States depart for honeymoons around the world each year, spending an average of $4,466 on the trip.

Though not nearly as pressure-filled as wedding planning, honeymoons do require some planning to ensure a fun and memorable trip. In a Bridal Guide survey, wedding couples indicated they were most likely to worry about wardrobe, swimsuits, sunglasses, sunscreen, and luggage when getting ready to depart.

Couples who want to look their best on their honeymoon and in their honeymoon photos should not forget to pack the following items. w Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a must

whether you’re traveling to the pink beaches of a tropical island or the slopes of a ski resort. Choose a product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and be sure to reapply every 80 minutes or so, especially after perspiring or swimming. Sunscreen will help prevent damaging and painful sunburns that can adversely affect a trip. w Makeup-remover wipes: Even high-end resorts may not provide the correct face bar for removing makeup and refreshing skin. Makeup-removing wipes can offer deep cleaning in a few convenient swipes. w Hair refresher: Brides who want to get a few extra days out of a wedding day hairstyle should pack a hair refreshing spray to tame static and add UV protectors that keep locks pampered until they’re ready to wash. Dry shampoos also allow for a little refreshing of hair

between daytime adventures and evening dinner. w Eye cream: There may be a few late nights while you’re enjoying romantic, candlelit meals or hitting up the hot spots around a resort. Ensure honeymoon photos do not show tired eyes with an eye cream that can reduce puffiness and dark circles. w Tinted moisturizer or BB cream: A high-quality tinted moisturizer or BB cream will hydrate skin and add just a sheer wash of color to even out skin tone. Pair with lip balm and a waterproof mascara and your honeymoon face will be ready. w Teeth whitening treatment: Couples who invested time and money into achieving whiter teeth for their weddings don’t want to let all of that hard work go to waste. Brush on whitening product after eating and drinking to

prevent stains and freshen breath. w Blotting papers: Humid climates may cause perspiration and oils to leach out of the skin. Tame shine and that greasy feeling with blotting papers purchased from a cosmetics retailer. w Light fragrance: Heavy perfumes have no business on breezy honeymoon escapes. Find a light, flowery scent or something tied to nature, like citrus in a travel-sized atomizer. w Stick-on bra cups: To feel more stylish and comfortable in strapless and/or backless dresses on their honeymoons, brides can use stick-on bra cups that offer support and lift. w Travel brow kit: Keep brows tamed and looking great with mini-tweezers, brow filler and gel.

Honeymoon beauty is easy to achieve if the right supplies are brought along on the trip.

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

INVITATION etiquette

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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ssembling wedding invitations can be confusing, considering the wording and proper etiquette, whom to invite as well as special instructions.

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there is an argument for inviting people to the reception but not the ceremony. The reverse is always considered poor taste.”

w Dress code and other suggestions Wording an invitation so your guests will know how to dress is tricky. w Save the date “Speaking in the manner of “Ideally invitations are sent six to traditional etiquette, a gracious eight weeks in advance of the wedhost never tells guests what to ding date. For more formal weddings wear. This is acting outside of an or for weddings where many guests understood demeanor that is an will be arranging travel, eight weeks unwritten rule of the practice of is best,” said Heather Wiese Alexcorrect etiquette,” Alexander said. ander, creative director with Dallas, There are clever and polite Texas-based Bell’Invito stationers. ways to inform your guests what If a wedding is planned during the tone of the event will be. a common holiday season or your “It is broadly accepted and arguguests have to travel to a special ably even considerate to indicate destination, save-the-date cards to guests what type of occasion are highly recommended, Alexanthe wedding might be by indicatder said. Put them in the mail about ing an attire,” Alexander said. four months ahead, she suggested.

If you choose to go the modern route and indicate the forw Ceremony only? mality of your wedding by a For people trying to keep the statement of attire, there are budget down, inviting people to only two things you need to know. the ceremony and not the reception “First, the directive should be may seem like a way to save money. placed in relation to the reception, “This is definitely not OK,” not the ceremony. For weddings Alexander said. “If you have an taking place in a church, synaintimate ceremony and can’t gogue or other religious sanctuary, have everyone inside the venue, it is never OK to require formal

dress ... If you are to be married in a church and your reception is in a ballroom, your attire should be placed on the reception card, not the ceremony card,” Alexander said.

Second, the attire should be clear, such as “black tie,” rather than something vague like “festive chic” or “creative formal.”

“Your attire directive should simply indicate a level of formality in the case that your guests might not know how to dress by the hour of day on your invitation.

This is definitely not the place to give descriptions that are meant to style your Pinterest-perfect wedding photos,” Alexander said.

Extra information should be given cautiously and politely by word of mouth, which can include social media. w A little extra help An informed wedding guest is a happy and prepared wedding guest.

“If you have traveling guests, an information card is useful. This can have hotels, recommended restaurants and a line that sends guests to a website to get more information, including the attire suggestion for the wedding,” Alexander said.

Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

Memorable Weddings Begin at Unity Village

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Eastern Jackson County WEDDING GUIDE

The Finest Formal wear for your Date

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