SoMinn
Weddings 2022! January 2022
INSIDE:
Northfield bride plans zerowaste wedding, encourages others to do the same Southern Minnesota Answers & More!
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SOMINN WEDDINGS 2022!
January 2022
Southern Minnesota Answers
SOUTHERNMINN.COM
We recently asked Southern Minnesota residents “What is the key to a long lasting relationship?” Here are some of their responses.
Just know that you love someone and there will still be days you don’t like them very much. It’s normal. Laura RESPECT Barbara Mutual respect for each other. Elaine
The secret to a long relationship is communication, commitment, trust connection & compromise. But don’t forget to have fun with your partner and make memories. Also know that marriage is not easy, and when things are hard you have to work at it. Toni
Sense of humor. Like minded about staying together through Friendship, laughter, respect the good times and the bad Linda times. Sonya
The key to a long lasting relationship is talking about everything, no matter how hard it is. Kim
1. Be patient 2. Be forgiving 3. Meet halfway 4. Know when to lead, know when to follow Having a sense of humor and be- Randy ing willing to do the hard work. Tammy Patience, communication, & a good sense of humor Going on date nights, even after Crystal you’re married Jason If something is broken, fix it. Don’t throw it away. You gotta be willing to do the Jennifer work. it’s not always gonna be a The key is to like the person rose garden. Jeri Lu you’re with as much as you love them. To have faith in your partner. Philip Things are going to go wrong, but you need hope that they can Never show your full hand Bobbi get better. Frank Keeping d*ckhead behavior to a minimum. Sara
e s i W h Let Caakse it perfect. m
Never stop dating each other, this includes flirting and spontaneous acts of love and appreciation! Also never skip ahead of the show you are watching together. Annie Two bathrooms. Maria
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Communication, respect, and acceptance. Not everything will be perfect all the time, but talking about things, respecting each other’s views and opinions, and accepting the things you cannot change will make for a long lasting relationship. Victoria
They need to be your best friend Making time for each other. and have similar interests Make every second matter. so you guys can enjoy doing Spencer things together. Meagan Communication and forgiveness. Generosity and patience. Trust and compromise Melissa Stephanie Sometimes you have to pretend you didn’t hear what your spouse said. Barb
Never ask you wife what’s for supper while she’s cutting the grass. Butch
Show your appreciation, even for the small things. Show an interest in their hobbies, even if you don’t love the same things they do. Kisses. Lots of kisses. I love you spoken softly and often. Travel as often as possible, and never miss a sunset together. Karen
Patience Matt Communicating and actually listening to your significant other so problems can be solved Sadie
Work cows together before you get married. Get separate blankets for the bed because someone is always hot and someone is always cold. Never say “never” or “always” in an argument. (You always do this, you never want to do that). Treat the other like you’re going to lose Communication and always hav- them, you never will (dates, gifts, ing each other’s backs! Oh, and extra chores). NOT remodeling a house to- Josh gether. Dannielle A sense of humor and compromise for both people Respect, communication and Jill trust. Team work makes the dream work! Honesty, Reliability, Sense of HuMichelle mor, Communication Taryn Communication is key. Choose your battles. Be understanding. Balance of partnership Deb Sierra Each of you should still be your own person and do things by yourself as well as together. You should also have a sense of humor, things can’t be serious all the time. Kathleen
Honesty and communication. Making time for each other, even No matter where life takes the when there is no time left in the two of you, you can always get through it together as long as day. you are open and honest with Jennifer each other. Peter Compromise on both sides. Jason Communication, commitment Having fun together even when and patience. Stephen times are tough. Kristina
Trust Christy Communication & nurture the love Tammy
January 2022
SOMINN WEDDINGS 2022!
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Northfield bride plans zero-waste wedding, encourages others to do the same of beer and rootbeer, and offered wine in bigger bottles. While she could have gotten compostable plates to use, Haroldson rented dinnerware from a local company since it takes a lot of energy for that many items to compost. Flatware and cloth napkins were also rented, while cake stands for pie were purchased from Goodwill or received from the “Buy Nothing” group. Other decorations used to accent Haroldson’s decor, like a chalkboard that directed guests to pick a glass to use for the night, was an old piece slate of her grandma’s. The wooden border for the chalkboard was made by her father for a Christmas gift 10 years ago. Pallets, which were used to hold the unique collection of coffee mugs guests could Ross Haroldson and Kimberly Haroldson had their zero waste/sustainable wedding in Northfield Sept. 4. From the wedding dress, ring, flowers and decorations, items were either purchased secondhand, rented or borrowed. (Photos by Melanie Jean Photography) By MICHELLE VLASAK michelle.vlasak@apgsomn.com From the flowers and linens to decorations and attire, high costs aren’t the only thing that traditionally come with weddings. Tthe amount of waste can be pretty high, too. According to the Botanical Paperworks site, the average wedding generates over 400 pounds of garbage. With an estimated 2.5 million weddings per year, that’s about 1 billion pounds of trash from weddings and receptions alone. Northfielder Kimberly Haroldson set out to plan her backyard, sustainable wedding with zero waste. Her Sept. 4 wedding included items either purchased secondhand, rented or borrowed. About six to seven years ago, Haroldson stumbled upon a
ding an easy one. Prior to moving to Northfield in May, Haroldson lived in the cities. During that time, she began collecting stemmed glasses and coffee mugs from “Buy Nothing” groups in the area. After realizing Northfield did not have a Facebook page similar to the one in the cities, she quickly created a place for people interested in giving away items to those searching for them. Along with the coffee mugs and and stemmed glasses, Soon after that, Haroldson said an arch and hutch were gifted to they started receiving messages her from Buy Nothing groups. from others wishing there was classes taught on living a zero- Traditional wedding items like waste lifestyle. With Kennedy’s decorations, consisted of flowers experience as a teacher, the duo from the Minneapolis Farmer’s began teaching classes. They Market, with arrangements put soon expanded their work, be- together by Kennedy. coming zero-waste activists and even going to the Capitol to talk Part of the zero-waste lifestyle, about the banning plastic bags. Haroldson says is to refuse everything first, and compost as Haroldson says it was easy to a last resort. Instead of using work zero waste into her wed- cans, Haroldson opted for kegs book by Bea Johnson about living in a zero waste home. On board with the zero waste approach, Haroldson texted her friend Ashley Kennedy, who was also game for trying it out. They started a private Facebook group in hopes of getting tips on how to reduce waste. Much to her surprise, she became a leader of the group and researched on her own how to go about minimizing what she discards.
use, were found in a dumpster in Faribault, and stained by Haroldson.
PERSONAL TOUCHES
Haroldson’s wedding dress came from a consignment store, and her bridesmaids’ dresses were rented from Rent the Runway, ranging anywhere from $32 to $100.
The suit jacket her now husband, Ross, wore was bought a number of years ago for the first wedding he attended. Focusing on the passion Haroldson and her husband have for the earth, instead of asking for gifts at the wedding, they asked for donations toward
ZERO WASTE
Continued on page 4
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SOMINN WEDDINGS 2022!
January 2022
ZERO WASTE
Throughout her months of planning and collecting items, HarContinued from page 3 oldson said it’s been fun hearing the stories people share and a greenhouse or their honey- relating to them through similar moon. For those who wanted to experiences. buy gifts, Haroldson picked out a few items that she could use After posting a photo of her wedfrom a registry site that allows ding ring with sentimental value for the addition of secondhand, on the Zero Waste Advocates of handmade and experience gifts. MN Facebook and Instagram Instead of purchasing wedding pages, Haroldson said she refavors, the newlyweds made do- ceived messages from so many nations to Pheasants Forever and brides who also shared that their opted out of paper programs and ring was secondhand, and people wedding invitations. grew very excited to share more about it. Haroldson’s wedding The meal, catered from a local es- ring was her grandmother’s, a tablishment, was vegan. Though ring that she remembers trying not following a vegan lifestyle, on and always finding so unique. Haroldson was pleased with how it fit into her goal of zero waste. Finding that the whole world changed during COVID-19, as Kennedy added that there’s value people found new ways of doing in reducing the amount of meat things, Haroldson feels people that is consumed, especially for are getting more comfortable such a large gathering, as she with change. says a lot of energy is involved with eating meat (including land, Planning a zero-waste wedding water, shipping and space). Food is pretty easy, Kennedy said, addscraps from the meal were also ing that a zero-waste lifestyle can be applied to many aspects of life. composted.
NOW BOOKING 2022 & 2023 EVENTS!
A hutch gifted to Kimberly from a “Buy Nothing” group sits filled with collected stemmed glasses, next to found pallets for the collected coffee mugs. A sign next to the statement pieces directs wedding guests to: “Pick a glass to use for the night. Before you sip, check that it’s right. Each one is unique, like every guest. Fill it with whatever you like best.” “There’s so much excess in existence already that there’s no need to add to the waste stream by purchasing new items,” said Kennedy. “The idea is that we all have things we don’t need that others need.”
When beginning the wedding planning, Kennedy says they took a step back and focused on the three important things wanted at the ceremony: good friends and family, good food and good
music. She says Haroldson was leviates a little bit of stress to step able to add personal touches by back and think about what’s rebeing creative, without having to ally important.” purchase new things. “This is something anybody can do,” said Kennedy. “It actually al-
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Bridesmaids Gifts
(GS) They’re a huge part of your life and of your wedding day. They’re there when you’re crying over nail polish colors, budgets, blown honeymoons, pandemics and reception playlists. They also maybe fed you too many margaritas during that bachelorette party. But you love them, anyway. Brides says the average price point for bridesmaids gifts is $75-$100, but feel free to spend whatever you feel is appropriate. Here are some unique bridesmaids gifts to show them how much you appreciate them being there for you.
BESPOKE JEWELRY
Jewelry can look expensive without being expensive, and it can come from the heart. Consider working with a local artist or even one you find on a network like Etsy to make
bespoke earrings, necklaces or bracelets for your bridesmaids crew.
PAJAMA SETS
Snag a few sets of matching or coordinating pajamas and have them monogrammed by a local embroidery shop. Wrap them in a pretty paper and include a heartfelt note about just how much they mean to you. P.S.: These PJs would make a great wedding morning picture.
SUBSCRIPTION BOXES
For the gifts that keep on giving, sign each of your crew up for a subscription box that everyone will enjoy. You can find a subscription box for just about anything nowadays. Look around for a service that you can all share in. Maybe you all like to garden (succulent gift box, anyone?) or love makeup. You’ll get memories not only of your big day but all year long.
CHAMPAGNE FLUTES
Maybe your girl gang is all about the celebration cocktails. Grab a set of tumblers or stemless flutes. You can add personalization, monograms and more to make it more personal. If champagne flutes aren’t your thing, you can find just about any beverage container and jazz it up, including flasks, highball glasses and coffee mugs.
GET COZY
Nothing says winter wedding day like cozy blankets, scarves, mittens or a hat. Find a matching set or pick out a luxe item to hand out for your best gals, especially if your wedding day’s going to take you into the chilly weather for any length of time. Bridesmaids dresses aren’t exactly known for their warmth,
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January 2022
Groomsmen Gifts
(GS) They’re your best buds, your bros, and they’re going to be there for your big day. So what’s a guy to get his friends?
Keep reading for some great groomsmens gifts that are sure to show them how much you care. Without it being, you know, weird.
DOPP KITS
A Dopp kit is a toiletry kit used by both men and women to store grooming supplies. It was invented, Copper River Bags says, by Charles Doppelt, a German leathersmith, in the early 20th century. During WWII, the Dopp kit became popular after they were introduced to the military. Samsonite purchased Doppelt’s company in the 1970s to produce Dopp kits and trademarked the name. These small,
squarish bags can be mono- time. Avoid soap, as that can grammed or personalized, and change the taste of your alcohol. because everyone needs one, they’re great for gifting. SWISS ARMY KNIVES Victorinox, the company that FLASKS makes the famous Swiss army Flasks are a great way to surrep- knife, started in 1884 when titiously take the party with you Karl Eisener opened a cutlery in wherever you go, and they come Ibach-Schwyz. He made a comin a variety of colors and mate- pact knife with an array of pracrials, most of which are easily tical functions. Over the years, personalized. AskMen.com says the functions have changed and there’s two ways to carry a flask the Swiss army knife became — either in a jacket pocket or in synonymous with the world’s the hip pocket of your trousers. most versatile pocket tool. Now, Jeans, the site says, show too in addition to the classic red finmuch and give your flask away. ish, Swiss army knives come in a Another acceptable option is to variety of materials, colors and stow it in the top of your boot. patterns, and they can easily be Clean your flask by rinsing it personalized into a great and out with hot water and leaving thoughtful gift for the outdoorsit to air dry overnight. If you’re man or just for the guy that alchanging out the type of booze ways needs a corkscrew to hand. you’re carrying, rinse it with a little lemon juice from time to
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Showers of Flowers
(GS) Yellow is having a moment this year. One of Pantone’s colors of the year is Illuminating, a bright yellow that’s spirited and energetic.
If you’ve picked sunny tones for your wedding palette, the good news is that there are plenty of blossoms that will give a pop to your bouquets, boutonnières and more.
ROSES
Yellow roses are classic additions to wedding bouquets. There are hundreds of yellow rose varieties. Each has their own shading, fragrance and bloom shape. The National Gardening Association says there are several forms of rose blooms, including the spherical cupped shape, highcentered blooms, flat blooms, quartered blooms, rosettes, pompons and globular blooms. With so many shapes to choose from, it’s easy to find the right rose for your look.
wedding bouquets and
DAISIES
floral decorations you
Tulips are spring classics. They come in almost every color of the rainbow and their simple cup shape and long stems make them perfect for elegant
You’re getting married this year? Let us help you with the beautiful
If you’re going rustic for your nuptials, consider a bouquet of daisies. Gerbera daisies have big blooms that can get up to five inches in diameter and are more budget friendly than other flowers. Also look for black-eyed Susans. Their brown centers give your bouquet texture and depth, especially when paired with plenty of greenery.
YARROW
These flat-topped bunches of tiny golden blooms are perfect to accent larger blooms in your bouquet. Yarrow can be arranged dried or fresh. Yarrow also has fern-like leaves that can be used
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bridal bouquets. Tulips come in many shades from a creamy, buttery tone all the way to neon yellow. Looking for more drama? Ask your florist for ruffled or double tulips.
Looking for a bloom of a different color? Hellebores have pointed, leathery leaves with textured centers that range in color from white to purple, including a variety of shades of green. Some yellow hellebores can even have edging or centers in other colors, including a stunning deep purple. Lilies Showy, trumpet-shaped lilies are stunning stars of any bridal bouquet. Many varieties also have a pleasant fragrance that festoons many a spring wedding. You can get classic, starshaped Asiatic lilies, Golden splendor trumpet lilies, dramatic Caucasian lilies and the classic, vase-shaped calla lily.
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SOMINN WEDDINGS 2022!
January 2022
Five Great Reception Ideas
(GS) Vows, gowns and flowers CHECK YOUR PHONES take center stage at the wedding, If you want your guests to be but the reception can really be present and in the moment (and your time to shine as a couple. you don’t have a hashtag for your wedding), consider setting up The party should represent who a phone check station similar you both are as a couple and cel- to a coat check at your favorebrate your unique love for one ite restaurant. Recruit a couple another and for your friends and of friends to man the desk and family. guests and check their devices in and out. Here are some eye-catching ways to do that, courtesy of The Knot. RECHARGING
GET CREATIVE WITH THE GUESTBOOK
Sure, you can have a regular guestbook and pen. Or you can get out of the boring box. Think about a way guests can leave their best wishes for you in a way that reflects your hobbies, loves or values. Are the bride and groom sports fans? Signed baseballs, footballs or basketballs are great ways to reflect that.
STATIONS
On the other end of that spectrum, you can set up recharging stations around your reception to make sure everyone keeps their Instagram feeds update with the hottest pictures from your big day. Take a cue from event planning and make sure the stations are convenient but out of the way of the dance floor and that there are plenty of comfortable places to sit around it.
COOL COCKTAIL IDEAS
Bespoke cocktails are so last year. Jazz up the bar at your reception with hot ideas like ice cubes with your monogram and drink pouches — adult and otherwise. Talk to your caterer about more ideas to personalize your food and drink options in creative ways.
SCENTSCAPING
Long winter nights are perfect for candlelight decor, and with candles comes the opportunity for planning the perfect scents for your wedding and reception. Plus, scent is tied to memory, so the smell of your favorite candles will bring back happy memories for years to come. Just make sure that the scent is light enough not to aggravate guests with allergies and sensitivities.
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Why Do we Throw Rice?
Tossing rice or other grains at the throwing rice to save birds. Hownewlyweds is a tradition as old as ever, Brides says that Audubon the hills. officials in the state never heard of rice killing birds and subseRice, Brides magazine says, sym- quent testing has shown it to be bolizes fertility and prosperity safe. What rice can do is be a slip for the new couple. Tossing the hazard for your guests. So somerice means you’re blessing them one should be tasked with cleanwith wishes of fruitfulness and ing up after the rice throw to wealth. keep things picked up and safe.
THROUGH THE YEARS
The ancient Celts, Brides says, threw rice, millet and other grains to appease their gods and ask for blessings on the newlyweds. Ancient Romans tossed wheat while in Morocco, they toss dried dates or figs. In India, it’s a rain of flower petals. In more recent years, tossing rice has met with objections that the leftover grains can harm wildlife. The state of Connecticut even introduced a bill in 1985 to ban
ALTERNATIVES
There are several reasons why you want to skip the rice toss. Maybe you and your partner aren’t planning to have children. Perhaps you’d like to avoid the safety hazards with rice or want a greener option. Here are some alternatives to consider. • Bird seeds. • Dried flowers. • Herbs. HOW AND WHEN Before your ceremony, have • Flower petals. small packets of rice ready for • Biodegradable confetti. your guests. They can be distributed by your ushers, tied to your You can also pass out small bells to have guests ring or ribbons to programs or left on chairs. wave. There are lots of options You should task people with that can match your wedding letting people know when you theme, venue and personality. would like rice to be tossed and Get creative, just make sure you also list it in the program. The pick up after yourselves and have rice toss can be when the couple a safe celebration. walks out of the ceremony, during a group photo or when the couple arrives at the reception.
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January 2022
Winter Wedding Jewelry Trends Jewelry in the form of a ring is break the bank, either. Budgetoften how the wedding planning friendly costume jewelry offers begins. pieces that brides don’t have to worry about in all the worrying But don’t forget your other acces- about practically everything else. sories in all the details for plan- Costume pieces are also panning your big day. Here are the demic friendly, Erlanger says. biggest trends in bridal jewelry “Social distancing is still very for this year. much a thing right now, and as a result, we’re seeing this trend of people doing a small celebraDROP EARRINGS Go big or go home when it comes tion followed by plans for a larger wedding day earbobs. Bridal party the following year. That’s stylist Micaela Erlanger told The where we’re seeing a lot of fun Zoe Report that maybe it’s be- costume jewelry come into the cause we’ve all been Zooming for mix.” a year, but big, bold earrings are where it’s at this season. GO LUXE “Every dress requires earrings. The other side of that argument, You’re not going to go with bare of course, is that smaller celebraearlobes,” Erlanger said. Consid- tions can be more luxe. er classics like diamonds, pears “Because couples have had to and blingy beads in long, trailing downsize their plans, there’s this tiers. movement of people who are taking the money that would’ve gone towards that big wedding AFFORDABLE PIECES Wedding jewelry doesn’t have to and putting into that piece,
whether it’s the engagement ring or the pair of earrings,” Erlanger said. “It’s really about making sure you can get more mileage out of pieces. That’s what modern couples are looking for.”
HAIR ACCESSORIES
Jewelry is also making its way into wedding day hairdos. Brooches, antique necklaces and other pieces are now the brides crowning glory. Don’t have a diamond rope laying around? Look for embellished combs, barrettes and bun holders to bring a dash of sparkle to your wedding ’do.
ETHICALLY SOURCED MATERIALS
Most of us have had enough of conflict, and that includes in our jewelry. Today’s brides, about the source of their jewelry are sourced from conflict-free Erlanger says, are concerned pieces. Look for sustainable lab- mines. grown diamonds or stones that
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Great Food, Warm Hospitality,
Excellent Service.
Hot Registry Items Marshall Field’s in Chicago started the first bridal registry in 1924 as a way for the happy LUGGAGE couple to indicate chosen crys- As more places open up posttal, china and silver patterns to pandemic, more couples are hittheir friends and family. ting the road. A set of luggage is a great, traditional gift for the adSince then, the registry has venturous couple. Make sure you come a long way. Couples can choose a set that fits your liferegister online for any number style. If spend a lot of time campof things for their new house- ing, you should choose duffel hold or even for their honey- bags instead of those hard-sided moon. Here are some of the bags with a built-in charger. hottest gifts to register for according to The Knot.
LINENS
SMART APPLIANCES
Towels, sheets and other goods are also standbys on the wedding registry. What’s new is the popularity of high-tech fabrics that are more sustainable and last longer than traditional choices. Make sure to make color and pattern choices that are classic and will last you for years.
Coffee pots, vacuums and even the lowly toaster all have high-tech brains nowadays that connect them to the internet of things. The Revolution 2-slice high-speed smart toaster ($299) has 63 settings with technology that uses intelligent heating algorithms ELECTRONICS to sear rather than bake your Today’s houses are high-tech, as baked goods for a crisp outside we’ve seen before with the toastand a soft, chewy inside. er, so it’s not unusual to add some
electronics to your wedding registry. Think of things such as soundbars, robotic vacuums and air purifiers. Consider the Cuisinart convection toaster oven ($179), which puts the power of a convection oven right on your countertop. It’s a budget-friendly way to get the versatility of the convection oven without having to replace a major appliance.
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KITCHEN APPLIANCES
Beyond the smart appliances, many couples are also registering for some appliances that may not have been on your mom’s wedding registries. These include things like air fryers, espresso machines, electronic pressure cookers and immersion blenders. Another popular option is the Nomad six-quart traveling slow cooker ($74). It looks like a lunch cooler, but it cooks on the go. It features a nonstick surface for easy clean-up and has a cooltouch surface for safe handling. Photo by Linda Albrecht
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SOMINN WEDDINGS 2022!
Your Destination For Elegance
Consider Wedding Insurance
(GS) Never has wedding insurance been such a hot topic than throughout the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Without much notice, many couples across the world were forced to improvise and change their plans when adjusting things for their big day. But what is wedding insurance and how can it help you reduce your risk of losing money when planning your wedding? Basically, wedding insurance covers a problem with the venue or a supplier. It can also offer financial coverage in the case of a key wedding party member falling ill.
Full Service Venue Open to the Public
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You can work with your local insurance providers to look at the various options on the marketplace. In most cases, depending on the type of coverage a couple takes
out, a wedding will be covered by insurance policies for the following: • A venue cancels on you. • A supplier changes plans. • Cancellation required due to a key guest not being able to attend due to poor health. • Personal liability and legal expenses. • Lost, stolen or damaged goods. • COVID-19-related cancellations.
zero deductible.
CANCELLATION OR POSTPONEMENT INSURANCE
One portion of wedding insurance includes cancellation or postponement policies. This gives you an extra level of protection throughout the wedding planning process. Your provider may be able to reimburse you for lost deposits and non-refundable payments if you are forced to PROTECT YOURSELF postpone or cancel your wedding Let’s face it. Weddings are exdue to circumstances out of your pensive. In order to be covered control. against the risk of losing a big portion of your budget, wedMany policies will also cover you ding venues will often actually if a wedding vendor cancels on require that you secure liability you and you need to hire a new, insurance to protect yourself and more expensive vendor. This the venue during your big event. can include additional coverage This insurance provides you with against loss or damage to wedprotection if someone is injured ding photographs and videos, at your wedding or one of your wedding gifts, wedding rings guests causes property damage to or wedding day attire. the venue. Many of these policies offer high limits and come with
January 2022
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Planning a Destination Wedding
(GS) In some areas, the COVID-19 pandemic is waning while in others, concerns over variants are rising, even among the vaccinated. But even while the coronavirus continues to evolve, weddings are still being planned, including destination weddings. If your dreams still include trav-eling somewhere magical, keep rreading. We’ve got hot advice sfor keeping you safe and your -dreams intact. g r BE FLEXIBLE r The best advice experts from e Brides magazine can give about o planning a destination right now g is to be flexible and be prepared. r As restrictions lift in some areas, people are rushing to finalize wedding plans. But pay attention u to health risks, including news n on variants and travel restric, tions, and to government COs VID-19 guidelines. e “
Unfortunately, we’ve seen that these two do not always align – sometimes laws being too lax when risks are high and sometimes being too strict when risks are low,” Annie Lee from Daughter of Design and Plannie told Brides. “There has been an unpredictability and capriciousness to when local government officials update COVID-19 rules, so couples continue to plan for both hopeful and cautious scenarios until this is truly all behind us.”
PLAY IT SAFE
Whatever you decide to do, make the best health decision for both you and your guests. And that means guarding your mental health, too. Consider taking some of the stress out of any upcoming nuptials by downsizing guest lists and making decisions as far out as you can, including for the next year.
“It will be nearly impossible to secure the right talent once the world opens back up,” Alison Laesser Keck of Alison Bryan Destinations told Brides. “Book everything as soon as possible! Whether you’re doing this by yourself or with a planner, you’ll want to book many of your vendors simultaneously as your venue to guarantee availability.”
HIRING A PLANNER
A destination wedding, with the added layers of travel and now a pandemic, is much more complicated than your average wedding. Hiring a planner that specializes in destination weddings can help make your big day as stress-free as possible. “Definitely get one on board before you sign any contracts,” Laesser-Keck says. “There are than ever, these strategies are vi- ships with vendors will be everyCOVID-19 policies and other tal. Also, if you have to postpone thing.” things to negotiate. Now, more again, your planner’s relation-
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Covid-Friendly Receptions cases in your community, the CDC says. High or increasing levels of coronavirus infection or in the areas people are traveling from to attend your wedding can pose a danger to your community. Outdoor events are less risky, the CDC says, as are shorter events. Make sure you have enough room for people to circulate and social distance. Make sure you can encourage mask-wearing and hand washing. You may also need to consider any extra rules your venues have in place.
(GS) The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend avoiding large events and gatherings.
the ceremony happening live but also projected onto a big screen and live-streamed for other guests. That way, each family could stay with their own group but still celebrate.
a smaller guest list means more opportunity to have a really unique wedding day. Things like intimate, personalized toasts and speeches, a more luxe venue that may not have originally been in your budget or an updated re• Social distancing wristbands or ception menu may all be on the pins. Offer your guests pins or table. wristbands that let them communicate their comfort level PLAN A SECOND with socializing.
CEREMONY
• A wedding tailgate. Guests parked their cars and stood with their household while the newlyweds walked through the rows to greet everyone. Afterwards, there was as car parade.
CREATIVE IDEAS FOR A COVID-FRIENDLY RECEPTIONS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF Here Comes the Guide listed these creative COVID wedding A PARED-DOWN GUEST ideas. LIST
Weddings and receptions, how- BEFORE YOU PLAN ever, may be possible in areas Don’t set your heart on a huge Instead of despairing about posthat permit such gatherings or blowout without first consider• A drive-in movie. Set up your sibly having fewer guests at your with a pared-down guest list. ing the number of COVID-19 wedding and host a drive-in with wedding ceremony, consider that
Many brides are opting for a second, larger ceremony after their coronavirus-limited ceremony, says wedding dress designer Karen Willis Holmes. “We can’t recommend enough that you do something extra special to take the attention off of the things you can’t do and put focus on making the absolute most out of your big day,” the designer says on her website.
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Show Your Favor
(GS) Wedding favors let your CUSTOMIZED PLAYING guests know you care and pro- CARDS vide them with a tangible memo- If you’re friends and family never ry of your big day. met a game they didn’t like, customized playing cards may be an Wedding website The Knot ace in the hole. You can get cards says the average cost of favors with pictures of you and your is about $400, so it’s not a small love through customization sites part of your budget, either. Here such as Shutterfly. are some great ideas for showing your guests that they’re your faLIVE PLANTS vorite on your wedding day. Setting an outdoor scene? Let your guests take some of the TINY TOTS (NO, NOT gorgeousness home with them THAT KIND) in the form of live plants. That Find miniature bottles of liquor, way, your love can grow in everywine or beer to give out to your one’s home. Look for succulents airport, especially for infrequent guests. Look for a brand that (trendy and easy to care for), travelers or people that don’t comes from near the site of your seedling trees and more. Visit a wedding. You may even be able local nursery for ideas on native drive. to order customized tags for plants that will do especially well your big day. Don’t forget to offer in your climate. THROW A PARTY a non-alcoholic option, too, for You’ve got a lot to do before your those who don’t imbibe. DESTINATION FAVORS big day, so ask a friend or family Hitting the road for your I-dos member to host a welcome party is a lot of fun and gives you a for your out-of-towners, It can be DRINKWARE a laid back affair with just drinks This category runs the gamut, but great opportunity to select some and appetizers or a full-blown think along the lines of koozies amazing wedding favors. meal, depending on your sched- if you live in a warmer area and ule and the independence of the have a list full of out outdoorsy You can choose to go the travel people on your guest list. You guests. For more upscale venues route and pick items like luggage want to strike a balance between and budgets, look for customiz- tags, hand sanitizers or some letting your guests have time able shot glasses, mugs or julep travel snacks. Or you can choose on their own and leaving them cups. These are great ways to give items specific to your destinaa reusable gift that can remind tion, such as giving personalwithout anything to do. your guests of your big day. ized jars of sunscreen out at a beach wedding.
Out-of-Town Guests
(GS) There are a million details You can also help plan their trip. to consider when planning Give them information on where to go while they’re in town, inyour wedding. cluding shopping, dining and One of them is the guest list local attractions they shouldn’t and the part of the guest list miss. You’ll also want to repeat that may get overlooked is how this information on a variety of to treat your guests coming in platforms. Mail traditional invifrom out of town. tations and information, but also set up social media sites, send Keep reading to find out how emails and make all your inforto treat your out-of-town mation as accessible as you can guests. to your traveling guests.
EARLY AND OFTEN
GIVE OUT GOODIES
The traveling part of your guest list needs to know your date and other plans as soon as possible so they can start saving for and plan their travel.
Your out-of-town guests are taking a lot of their own time to be there for your big day. Consider leaving them a bag in their hotel rooms to make them feel wel-
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come and show your appreciate. Go beyond the old standbys of water and mints. Include things people often forget while traveling, like a toothbrush. Also drop in some hand lotion or soap from a local maker.
TRANSPORTATION TIPS
Arrange for transportation for your guests insofar as you can. You don’t have to rent them cars, but you should at least arrange for transportation to and from the ceremony and any related events. Organize carpools, use a shuttle, limo service, whatever your budget allows for. You can also arrange for trips from the
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Selecting the Right Space
(GS) When it comes to your wedding reception venue, there’s plenty of creative options to make sure all of your needs are met. From churches to barns, boutique hotels or restaurants, your options are limitless.
And while large-group restrictions may be a barrier in being able to secure one of these venues in the short-term, it’s never too early to start mapping out how you’d like your perfect day to go.
CONSIDER THE GUEST EXPERIENCE
Communicating with Vendors
ironed out. Planners are likely more familiar with the capabilities of a space, the layout and the requirements needed to decorate it according to your needs. Planners likely have information on the decision-makers within each space, as well, and are more likely to have a history with negotiating costs with them.
Before landing on a specific venue, think about how the day will unfold. Will you want the ceremony and reception in the same location? Will you be allowed to design and decorate the space the way that you want? Is the cost of the venue within your budget? CONSIDER YOUR These are all critical questions that can help you narrow down GOALS If you’re planning a modern your choices to a select few. wedding, look at venues that fit your vision. Places like art TALK TO A PLANNER galleries or warehouses can be FIRST transformed to fit your design If organization is not typically specifications. If you’re planning your thing, you may consider a more natural or rustic wedding, talking to a wedding planner outdoor venues such as parks or about getting these key details a stylish backyard may be a bet-
During the planning phase of your wedding, you’re going to get to know your vendors very well. They will come to understand the most intricate plans of your special day and will be committed to making them all happen ter fit. Never settle and always re- for you. search every option to make sure you can secure the best venue for When it comes to communicating with them, your main goal your budget and goals. should be staying on the same page all the way up to your wedKNOW YOUR ding day. The last thing you want ACCOMMODATIONS to happen is a mix-up about how There is no need in securing a gimany people your caterer will be ant venue if you’re planning on serving or how many chairs you keeping your guest list small. Alneed for the ceremony. ternatively, if you choose a venue that is too small for your guest Communication is key when list and more guests attend than it comes to wedding vendor you were originally expecting, management. Ask your vendors you may be caught in an awkwhat their preferred method of ward situation. communication is to minimize delays on important decisions The number of expected guests and details. Make yourself availshould be a key factor in reable as much as possible in case searching the size and layout of a time-sensitive question comes your venue. up during the planning phase.
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ORGANIZATION IS CRITICAL
SHORT ON TIME? ASSIGN A POINT OF You will accrue multiple docu- CONTACT ments and emails from your vendors throughout the planning process. If you are sent digital files, be sure to print them out and keep all important documentation, including contracts, inside a labeled binder, drawer or box.
You’ll probably need to refer back to these documents as you continue through the planning process, so it’s imperative you have quick, easy access to them. When it comes to email, make sure you’re checking your inbox and even your spam folder frequently to make sure you’re not missing important messages. Create a wedding folder for an easy, convenient way to keep your emails organized.
Dealing with multiple people can confuse the process in a hurry. If you’re not the one who will be managing interactions with your vendors, make sure to appoint someone as that key point of contact. If you decide to hire a wedding planner, this is their role. If you are going with a smaller, more intimate wedding ceremony that doesn’t require a planner, ask someone on your bridal party or in your family if they can take on the task of helping bridge the gap between you and your vendors. A single point of contact will help streamline the process and keep everyone on the same page.
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Weddings by the Numbers ENGAGEMENT STATISTICS
• 99% of grooms do the proposing. • 16% of proposals occur in December. • The average American engagement lasts 15 months. • The average diamond engagement ring is $6,163.
WEDDING STATISTICS
(GS) Weddings and honeymoons are big business. People are willing to spend handsomely on these events to ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Consider the following research statistics, facts and figures, reported by the award-winning travel information website, TripSavvy. Some of the numbers may
• Every year, an average of 2.4 million weddings are performed in the U.S. • Today’s median age for brides is 29 years. For grooms, it’s 31 years. • The median age for remarriage is 34 for brides and 37 for grooms. • Each weekend an average of surprise you or even inspire you 44,230 weddings takes place. when it comes to planning your • The most popular months for special day. weddings are September and October.
COST STATISTICS
• $35,329 is the average amount spent on a traditional American wedding. • Per-guest cost is $268. • Bachelor party attendees spend on average $738. Bachelorette party spending averages $472. • The average amount each guest spends to attend the wedding is $703. • The average amount spent on a wedding gift is in the $70-$100 range. • In 19% of cases, the brides’ parents pay for the wedding. • 32% of brides and grooms pay for the wedding themselves.
DESTINATION WEDDING STATISTICS
• 25% of marriages are destination weddings. • 340,000 destination weddings take place each year. • The destination wedding market accounts for $16 billion in
annual spending. • The average budget for a destination wedding is $28,000. • The average number of guests at a destination wedding: 48. • 9 out of 10 couples say the weather is a key factor in selecting a destination. • 60% of destination weddings take place in a domestic location and 40% international.
DESTINATION WEDDING LOCATIONS
The leading destinations for outof-town weddings are: • Las Vegas (80,000) • Hawaii (20,000) • U.S. Virgin Islands (5,100) • Jamaica (5,000) • Bahamas (4,000)
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Wedding Statistics to Consider
That way you’re able to overcome any scheduling issues due to the pent-up demand for ceremonies and receptions.
(GS) Sometimes, seeing how other couples are planning their weddings can help you making decisions while you start to put together your special day.
of weddings to 2.77 million versus a normal year of about 2.12 million. • Spending will be reduced in both budget and guest counts. 2021 average spending will be about $21,600, resulting in a total market of $60 bilCheck out these statistics from the lion. research company, The Wedding WHAT THESE STATS Report. • 41.5% of couples moved their 2020 MEAN FOR YOU Prepare now. Depending on where weddings to 2021. • 7% are or have canceled altogether you live and the current demand for (some likely married but canceled weddings, it may be tough to secure a venue. If you’re planning on getthe full event). • 46% of couples are cutting their ting married in 2021 or 2022, you may have to get creative with your budget by an average of 31%. • 58% of couples are cutting their venue space, especially if more traditional space options are booked out guest count by an average of 41%. • 2021 is seeing a surge of 650,000 for many months. Call around and weddings, bringing the total number start your planning process early on.
Enjoy engagement. According to data from TheKnot.com, two out of every three couples said they felt stressed during the planning process in 2020. Another 54 percent felt uncertain, and nearly half of all respondents reported that they were overwhelmed. As difficult as it may be, experiencing a wedding date delay can be a great excuse to enjoy your engagement for a longer period of time. Take local trips with your love and find new ways to spend time together. You just might find you’re closer than ever as your wedding gets closer. Be flexible. If your reception is in a region where you anticipate more events than usual around the time of your planned date, consider alternative days of the week. Top-preferred vendors could potentially be available during these dates. With a little flexibility, you could land great venues and vendors for your special day, even during such an uncertain, high-demand time for couples getting married.
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A D-I-Y Wedding Checklist
As a bride or groom, planning a wedding can be a beautiful experience. Some of the benefits are being able to control all of the creative decisions along the way.
through your own savings or fi- ing as once pandemic-delayed nancial help from family mem- weddings are starting to happen bers. again.
Either way, creating a realistic budget will help you stay focused It can also be a lot to handle if as you secure things like the done incorrectly. venue, band, food and photographers. Fortunately, there are some tried and true things to remember RESERVE THE VENUES when putting together a plan for Once you’ve landed on a wedyour wedding. Follow along with ding date, choose the venue or the checklist below to make sure venues where your event will be you’re not forgetting anything as taking place. Many couples are following the recent trend of your special day nears. holding the wedding ceremony CREATE A BUDGET and reception in the same buildPaying for your wedding doesn’t ing. have to break the bank. With proper planning, you can pull off This can cut down on logistics the event of your dreams if you and travel for guests, making it stay within a pre-determined a one-stop-shop for all of your budget. wedding festivities. No matter what you decide, it’s important to How much you’re willing to lock down your venues early, esspend will be determined by pecially with the boomerang efwhat is available to you, either fect many planners are anticipat-
GET INVITES OUT EARLY
There are certain components of any wedding that take more time than others to execute. Invites are one of them. Unless you’re creating each one by hand, you’ll be depending on a printer and any related shipping delays before they can go out to your guests.
Consider using a local printing company to handle your job. They can work with you on printing and shipping your invites at a good cost.
Make sure the invite process is collaborative with your spouse. Forgetting to invite someone from your family or friend network is something you definitely want to avoid.
January 2022
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SoMinn
Weddings 2022! January 2022
REGIONAL PRESIDENT: RANDY RICKMAN REGIONAL MANAGING EDITOR: PHILIP WEYHE REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF SALES: TOM KELLING
Think Outside the Box
With the overall natural beauty found during the fall season, it’s no wonder why so many couple are opting for unique venues to host their special day.
large guest list. You’ll also be supporting local farmers, as many have found ways to host events to supplement their regular revenue streams.
Fall lends itself to a variety of enchanting venue ideas indoors or outside. You can access the great outdoors to take advantage of the fall beauty or invite the colors inside with a unique theme.
Wineries and breweries. Wineries offer breathtaking views and spacious indoor or outdoor options for your festivities. And while you’ve likely celebrated a wedding at a local winery, have you considered a brewery? This is a trendy option that offers industrial backdrops for photos and reception celebrations, not to mention plenty of drink options for your thirsty guests.
No matter which location you choose, the season provides a bounty of outstanding options when it comes to choosing your colors, decor and attire.
THINK OUTDOORS
The temperate weather and the beautiful colors make the outdoors an ideal option for planning a romantic, memorable wedding. Vintage farms. Thinking rustic? Consider a local country farm for your venue. These venues combine the best of both worlds – classic outdoor beauty and reclaimed barns. Many vintage farms offer plenty of space for a
season. Fortunately, fall color palettes and decorations can be easily adapted indoors.
Castles. Frequently found along the east coast, step inside a storybook castle venue to host the wedding of your dreams. There are many of these venues that were built in the 1880s and have since been reclaimed and restored to their original glory.
Historic hotels. For a more intimate setting in fall, small historic inns, lodges and hotels can help whisk you and your guests away to a simpler, more understated time that is equal parts charm Local forests. Looking for a stun- and nostalgia. ning, sustainable location for your wedding? You won’t find a Large estates. Watch the leaves venue more fitting than your lo- change color against the stuncal forest. Nature-lovers agree, ning, spacious exteriors of large, forest-theme weddings offer historic estates. You likely have beautiful, serene locations for one of these restored mansions getting married to your special in your neck of the woods, and someone. they create an idyllic setting for a unique indoors ceremony or STAY INDOORS reception. Due to the uncertainty of Mother Nature, many couples opt for an indoor wedding during the fall
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