Fall 2017 bridal

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 8

Wedding Day Countdown Twelve to Eighteen Months ❏ Set the date ❏ Determine wedding budget ❏ Select wedding site ❏ Select officiant(s) ❏ Select & reserve a reception site ❏ Choose a caterer ❏ Select ceremony musicians ❏ Select reception entertainment ❏ Choose attendants ❏ Choose ushers and helpers ❏ Select photographer ❏ Select videographer ❏ Choose a wedding consultant Six to Twelve Months ❏ Choose wedding style and color scheme ❏ Decide on the size of the wedding ❏ Determine guest list ❏ Choose a florist ❏ Order your wedding dress ❏ Select & order bridesmaid dresses

❏ Confirm delivery date for dresses ❏ Update your passports, if needed ❏ Plan rehearsal/grooms dinner with fiance & all parent Three to Six Months ❏ Purchase gifts for attendants & fiance ❏ Select men’s formal wear ❏ Choose reception decorations ❏ Reserve rented items ❏ Order invitations & announcements ❏ Select & order the wedding cake ❏ Purchase wedding bands ❏ Select a transportation service ❏ Plan the honeymoon, make reservations ❏ Register with bridal registries ❏ Arrange out-of-town guest accommodations ❏ Buy your trousseau ❏ Have mothers buy dresses

Banquet Ballroom Wedgewood Cove • Perfect Location for wedding receptions, banquets, holiday parties, meetings and private dinners.

• Seats up to 440 people or separated into thirds to accommodate smaller gatherings • Two-sided full service bar

• Overlooks a full length balcony and offers scenic golf course and lake views • No Room Rental Fee • Lower minimums on Fridays & Sundays • Outdoor area by lake for ceremonies

❏ Make wedding day salon appointment ❏ Have a complete physical exam One to Three Months ❏ Select wedding reception music ❏ Have final dressing fittings ❏ Address wedding invitations ❏ Mail wedding invitations 4 to 6 weeks, no later than 3 weeks ❏ Get marriage license ❏ Confirm appointments & arrangements ❏ Confirm honeymoon arrangements ❏ Prepare and send newspaper announcement ❏ Make arrangements for parking, traffic Two Weeks ❏ Confirm details with photographer and videographer ❏ Pick up wedding rings (if engraved) ❏ Organize your trousseau & pack

Weddings Cost LESS at Walmart.

Bridal Registry Register Online with the Walmart App

Table Favors & Photo Albums

& personalized gifts

Wedding & Engagement Rings

Wedding COUNT DOWN

Get the Latest Advice on Planning the Perfect Wedding With Help from the Pros Inside this Issue!

You can print

In our Jewelry Dept

Cards

to send with invitations

Everything you need,

we've got you covered!

Wedding and Party Cakes In our Bakery

Party Platters From Our Deli

For More Information or a Personalized Quote, Contact Tina Today!

❏ Purchase travelers checks ❏ Plan a seating arrangement for reception One Week ❏ Talk with caterer, give final guest count ❏ Have groom’s formal wear fitting ❏ Have groomsmen try on and pick up their formal wear ❏ Confirm duties and time schedule with attendants and helpers ❏ Firm up any last minute arrangements for music, flowers, cake Your Wedding Day ❏ Bring your wedding guide for important names & phone numbers ❏ Stay calm and enjoy, this is your wedding day!

Fall 2017

Discover your wedding at walmart.com

and

SAVE!

Wedding & Party Supplies Save the date cards, invitations & decorations

2200 W. 9th St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-2007 ext. 4

1550 Blake Ave., Albert Lea, MN

www.wedgewoodcove.com

507-377-2998

CAKES

INSURANCE

TRAVEL

BEAUTY

DECORATIONS

WEDDING PARTY GIFTS

VENUES

RENTALS

BRIDAL REGISTRY

INVITATIONS SAVE THE DATE

GOWNS/DRESSES

WEDDING, ENGAGEMENT RINGS

RECEPTIONS

TRANSPORTATION

TUXES

PARTY TRAYS

A S p e c i a l S u p p l e m e n t To T H E F R E E B O R N C O U N T Y S H O P P E R O c t o b e r 3 1 , 2 0 1 7

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 2

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 7

1st Comes Love Then Comes Marriage!

Pack an Emergency Wedding Day Kit Brides and grooms can use this checklist to compile a wedding day kit that meets their needs and customize with any specialty items.

Troy Thompson Indoor Sidewalk Sale November 17-18

st i l k c e h c it k g n i er d d e w o Hair dry

iron o Curling ing kit w e s i in M o s o Hair pin ins p ty fe a S o olders Ponytail h er pills o v e endors li e r in a oP wedding v f o 's # e n o Pho eye drops / n o ti lu o o Antacid s lens o Contact s o Bandage ror o Nail file Brush - Mir b m o C o r Nail clippe o s e u s is oT s g lipstick) o Tweezer water w/o ruinin s k n ri o Bottled d p o si o Straws (t o Snacks cks o Black so o Powder ttons ress) o Black bu nt wedding d a r n o o d s o rk e a D m o rs up Chalk (cove o e m fu r e ck oP remover sti t o p s S k c o a b o Earring spray tatic cling d tape S e o id -s le b u o Do pins o Corsage pads y r a it n a S o pe o Scotch ta Gum ts in M o icks ss - Toothp o Scissors lo F l ta n e oD s p o for touch-u o Makeup o sh o Extra ca of shoes e g n a h c a o or o Slippers se o h ty n a p f o irs o o Extra pa o as o Umbrell ay o Hairspr

Place Your Open House, Shower, Announcement and Thank You ads in

The Freeborn County Shopper $18 • $28 • $43 1x1 • 1x2 • 1x3 Sizes Deadline Friday at Noon for the Following Tuesday Publication

Stop In at 110 Pearl St. in Albert Lea 507-373-1310

Available for YOUR special day!

Weddings of Impeccable

Taste

Let us design the perfect cake for your special day!

Custom Cakes for All Occasions

CHIC SugarCake Designs 507-369-0272

1417 St. John Ave., Albert Lea, MN

www.sugarchiccakes.com

Dawson Limousine

Limo Bus available for large parties.

www.blissformalwear.com

Hwy 65, Mason City 641.201.1032

For your special day, choose the

American Legion

Post 56 *Dance Floor & Stage available *Linens & Select Decor *Meals to Fit any budget, Buffet or Served *Full-sized, event only bar

Call Marcia at

507-373-7993 142 N. Broadway • Albert Lea

Contact Brad 507-402-0606

M, W, F Noon-6p

T, Th Noon-8p Sat 10a-4p

507-383-1024

Rentals for all Your Special Occasions 717 E. Richway Dr., Albert Lea partysolutionsllc@gmail.com

Rental Items Available:

Wedding Announcements Save-The-Dates Wedding Invitations & RSVP's Thank-Yous Postage Rings Photographer (Wedding & Engagement) Videographer Rehearsal Dinner Food/Caterer Beverages/Liquor Cake & Cake Topper Bride’s Dress & Veil Alterations Bride’s Hair & Make-Up Accessories/Shoes Flowers Rentals Decorations Transportation Reception Site Fee Church Fees/Officiant Entertainment/Musicians/DJ Marriage License Honeymoon

We offer full service, delivery, and set-up for your event!

1330 W. Main Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

Estimated Actual

Attendants Gifts

• Canopy Tents • Dance Floor • 3 Styles of Folding Chairs • Round Tables • Banquet Tables • High Top Tables • Staging • Bean Bag Boards • Popcorn Machine

Insurance from the Best!

wedding budget

Grooms Tux

Party Solutions

LUTCF

Wedding Programs Favors Other

Totals

Paid Due

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 3

3 tips for couples considering Friday or Sunday weddings The cost of weddings continues to rise. The average wedding cost couples and their families more than $35,000. With such a high price tag, it’s no wonder happy couples look for ways to save money.

One of the ways couples can save a sizable amount of money on their weddings is to tie the knot on Friday or Sunday instead of hosting a more traditional Saturday afternoon or evening wedding. Wedding ceremony and reception venues may charge considerably less to host weddings on Fridays or Sundays. Reception venues tend to be the largest wedding expenses, so reducing those rates can go a long way toward helping couples stay within their budgets.

While the cost-savings of Friday or Sunday weddings may be the main focus for happy couples, it’s important that grooms- and brides-to-be recognize that planning Friday or Sunday weddings may require some unique planning.

1. Avoid holiday weekends.

Three-day holiday weekends may seem like the ideal time to host Friday or Sunday weddings, as guests likely already have Friday

or Monday off from work. But the cost of travel and lodging may be much higher on holiday weekends than non-holiday weekends. That may compel some guests to decline their invitations. In addition, many families have holiday weekend traditions and it may be unfair for couples to ask them to interrupt or cancel those plans to attend their weddings.

2. Consider the timing.

When hosting a Friday wedding, couples may want to start the ceremony later than they might if they were getting married on a Saturday. That’s because out-oftown guests who don’t want to use more than one vacation day to attend the wedding may be flying in on the day of the wedding.

A later start time gives guests more flexibility when booking flights. Starting later also allows local guests to work a full day and still make it to the ceremony on time. Couples who opt for a Sunday wedding may want their ceremonies to start earlier than they would on Saturday to accommodate guests who need to go to work on Monday morning.

the vast majority of weddings take place. So couples should not simply assume a favorite deejay, band or catering company will be available to work their Friday or Sunday weddings. Couples who have particular entertainers or caterers in mind should confirm the availability of these vendors before booking a wedding and reception facility. It’s also important that couples getting married on Sundays confirm that hotel rooms will be clean and ready in time for their guests to make it to the ceremony. Many

hotels host wedding parties on Fridays and Saturday nights, and some might not be able to turn rooms around in time to accommodate Sunday wedding parties.

Tying the knot on a day other than Saturday can save couples money and help make their weddings more unique. But it’s important that couples consider more than just cost-savings before agreeing to get married on a Friday or Sunday.

JR's Barn, Waldorf, MN

Master the wedding save-the-date Many couples’ weddings take more than a year to plan. Couples want all of the special people in their lives to witness their vows, and giving guests advance notice can ensure as many loved ones as possible attend the ceremony.

To be certain that guests have ample notice to clear their schedules, many couples now turn to save-the-date cards, which announce weddings well in advance of the actual wedding day.

Save-the-date cards once were reserved only for weddings that required travel or special circumstances, such as destination weddings. But such cards have now become commonplace for all weddings. That’s because many people plan vacations or business trips anywhere from four to six months in advance. Busy people require plenty of notice to include this important date on their calendars, particularly when wedding dates fall during popular travel seasons or around the holidays.

Save-the-date cards are typically mailed six to eight months prior to the wedding, though some are sent as early as a year before the big day. Once a date and a location is secured, save-the-dates can be ordered and mailed.

Save-the-date cards require couples to assemble their guest lists well in advance of the wedding. The leading bridal

3. Confirm vendor availability.

Wedding vendors are accustomed to working on Saturdays, when

resource The Knot notes that everyone who will get a wedding invitation should also receive a save-the-date card. There’s no turning back once cards are sent, so couples will need to be certain everyone they want to attend is getting advanced notice.

It’s acceptable to mail save-the-date cards even if some wedding day details are still up in the air. Guests really only need to know the date and location of the wedding. Couples also can use the save-the-date card to direct invitees to a wedding website where guests can learn the details of the wedding as they unfold.

RSVP information does not need to be included on the save-the-date card.

Save-the-date cards are much less formal than invitations, so couples can have fun with them. They can showcase couples’ clever personalities or funny quirks. Keep in mind it is in poor taste to mention gifts or registries on save-thedate cards. There will be plenty of time to direct guests to registries later on.

Couples are increasingly turning to save-the-date cards when planning their weddings to make sure busy friends and family will have enough time to make plans to attend their weddings

DIAMOND JO CASINO EVENT CENTER

CongratulatesYou! WE HAVE THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY! Entertain up to 340 guests in our 5,000 square-foot event center.

Our exceptional staff will provide quality service and delicious food to make your day special. Your guests will enjoy our convenient parking, and nearby hotels.

FEATURES INCLUDE: • On-site event coordinator

• Linen tablecloths & napkins

• Award-winning chefs

• Set-up & clean-up

• Professional service staff

• In-room bar & bartender service

• Three bridal packages tailored for a variety of budgets • Skirting on the head table and serving tables • Discounts on block rooms at Country Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express • Access to your room the day before for decorating & the day after for gift opening

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT BY DECEMBER 31, 2017 TO RECEIVE 10% OFF REGULAR MENU PRICES. MENTION DISCOUNT CODE:

weddings

Some restrictions apply. Discount applies to food menu only.

Contact Mary Holmes, Catering Sales Manager for a free no obligation tour and to discuss all available options.

641-323-7819 | MaryHolmes@boydgaming.com

Weddings & Events 21573 45th St., Waldorf, MN 507-327-7047 www.jrsbarn.com

777 Diamond Jo Lane, Northwood, IA | DiamondJoWorth.com

139400Fjd_DW_FreebornFallBridal_GUIDE_5”x6.5”_AD_10.24

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 5

Tips for planning the perfect honeymoon Honeymoons are a couples first official trip as newlyweds, so planning the perfect honeymoon is very important.

It’s important for couples working on budgets to realize that there are plenty of ways to plan memorable getaways without breaking the bank. Couples can keep the following strategies in mind as they plan their honeymoons.

• Plan and book early. The average engagement length is 15 months. That gives couples plenty of time to plan their weddings, but also a great chance to book their honeymoons well in advance of their wedding days. Fifteen months affords couples the chance to piece together the perfect honeymoon on their own or shop around for package deals.

• Delay the honeymoon. Couples without much wiggle room in their budgets or those who simply want to save money can delay their honeymoons, choosing to take their getaways months after they tie the knot. This provides couples

with more traveling flexibility. And depending on when couples get married, delaying the honeymoon may push the trip into the vacationing off-season, when more affordable deals can often be found.

• Don’t shy away from your newlywed status. Resorts might not advertise it, but many offer special amenities to honeymooning newlyweds. Some may provide complementary spa services, while others might offer free room upgrades if they have any vacancies. Such amenities may be grand or small, but no matter their size, they can make honeymoons feel more special.

carte. All-inclusive packages may also remove some of the work of planning the honeymoon because couples won’t need to tirelessly research activities and find the most affordable local vendors.

Couples can examine the nuts and bolts of all-inclusive packages to

Selecting a comfortable wedding gown make sure they include activities and foods they’re likely to enjoy.

Planning a honeymoon takes work, but much of that work is fun, and couples who do their due diligence can save substantial amounts of money.

Many brides-to-be visit bridal shops with specific goals in mind regarding the style of their wedding gowns. Some women come equipped with magazine tear-outs or pull up ideas on their mobile phones. Others may have an entire scrapbook filled with various ideas they’ve been compiling for years.

stunning and comfortable. When staff and friends or family who have come along to offer advice start to blush over wedding gowns, brides-to-be may feel pressured to downplay any discomfort they feel.

Much consideration is given to wedding gowns. The cost and silhouette of the dress may garner the bulk of that consideration, but brides might want to spend more time considering comfort.

• Know what to highlight and what to cover up. No two body types are the same, and many women feel certain parts of their bodies are their best assets while they want to downplay others. Try on gowns that play up your best features. If you have shapely legs, consider a dramatic gown with a slit to show them off. Certain gowns can enhance the decollete or show off an hourglass shape.

Remember, many gowns can be modified so that you feel secure and confident. Sleeves can be

Depending on the time of day their weddings take place, brides can spend 12 hours or more in their wedding gowns on their wedding day. However, when shopping for their gowns, brides may prioritize beauty over comfort, even though it’s entirely possible to find a gown that’s both

• Give ample consideration to all-inclusive honeymoon packages.

Whether couples are working on tight budgets or planning their honeymoons without regard to cost, all-inclusive packages may be worth the extra money up front.

All-inclusive packages tend to include meals, some beverages and fun activities that couples would otherwise have to pay for á la

To make sure brides look flawless and elegant but are still comfortable in their wedding gowns, consider the following tips.

Your beautiful rustic barn wedding destination in Albert Lea Minnesota 507-383-8878 info@thebarnofchapeaushores.com www.thebarnofchapeaushores.com

First 5 bookings receive a

$500 Discount off their rental.

Your Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Specialists!

Premier Mobile Travel Agency

Downtown Albert Lea 130 W. Clark 507-373-2473 | 800-247-5330

Specializing in Honeymoon Travel and Destination Weddings

www.4-seasonsvacations.com

Inc.

Trust our experience Love your vacation.

55 Main St., Easton, MN 56025

Your experience starts here!

Let our expertise take the work out of planning your perfect custom honeymoon or destination wedding.

Sarah Arens, CTA sarah@mytravelc.com www.mytravelc.com

507.319.4542 Albert Lea 16 years experience

507-787-2211

Hours: M-F 10:00 to 5:00 • Sat 10:00 to 4:00 Walk-ins Welcome!

Ask us about our FREE Alterations

www.SilhouetteWedding.com

Louise

Sara

Tammi

added or fabric placed to cover up any perceived flaws. Confidence and pride are important parts of the comfort factor.

• Get sized correctly. Bridal gown sizes do not coincide with street sizes. Depending on the manufacturer, brides may have to select gowns that are several sizes larger than they would normally wear. This should not be a cause for alarm. Brides should go by their measurements. Attempting to squeeze into a dress that is too small will only lead to discomfort on the wedding day.

• Purchase the right undergarments. Improperly fitting bras, shapewear and other undergarments can lead to discomfort as well. Some seamstresses can sew in supportive cups to remove the need for separate bras. Brides can explore various options to reduce the visibility of certain accoutrements.

• Move around in the gown.

Brides should not just stand in front of the mirror and smile when trying on gowns. Put them through their paces. Try sitting, bending and even a little dancing. Make sure the dress is comfortable to move around in.

• Try different options. The gown brides have in mind may not be the one they ultimately go home with. Explore different styles and materials. Choose cooler, breezier fabrics and lightweight gowns, like crêpe, georgette or organza, for summer weddings. Heavier fabrics, such as brocade, may be more comfortable in the winter.

Wedding gowns can be both beautiful and comfortable for those who know how to shop.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 5

Tips for planning the perfect honeymoon Honeymoons are a couples first official trip as newlyweds, so planning the perfect honeymoon is very important.

It’s important for couples working on budgets to realize that there are plenty of ways to plan memorable getaways without breaking the bank. Couples can keep the following strategies in mind as they plan their honeymoons.

• Plan and book early. The average engagement length is 15 months. That gives couples plenty of time to plan their weddings, but also a great chance to book their honeymoons well in advance of their wedding days. Fifteen months affords couples the chance to piece together the perfect honeymoon on their own or shop around for package deals.

• Delay the honeymoon. Couples without much wiggle room in their budgets or those who simply want to save money can delay their honeymoons, choosing to take their getaways months after they tie the knot. This provides couples

with more traveling flexibility. And depending on when couples get married, delaying the honeymoon may push the trip into the vacationing off-season, when more affordable deals can often be found.

• Don’t shy away from your newlywed status. Resorts might not advertise it, but many offer special amenities to honeymooning newlyweds. Some may provide complementary spa services, while others might offer free room upgrades if they have any vacancies. Such amenities may be grand or small, but no matter their size, they can make honeymoons feel more special.

carte. All-inclusive packages may also remove some of the work of planning the honeymoon because couples won’t need to tirelessly research activities and find the most affordable local vendors.

Couples can examine the nuts and bolts of all-inclusive packages to

Selecting a comfortable wedding gown make sure they include activities and foods they’re likely to enjoy.

Planning a honeymoon takes work, but much of that work is fun, and couples who do their due diligence can save substantial amounts of money.

Many brides-to-be visit bridal shops with specific goals in mind regarding the style of their wedding gowns. Some women come equipped with magazine tear-outs or pull up ideas on their mobile phones. Others may have an entire scrapbook filled with various ideas they’ve been compiling for years.

stunning and comfortable. When staff and friends or family who have come along to offer advice start to blush over wedding gowns, brides-to-be may feel pressured to downplay any discomfort they feel.

Much consideration is given to wedding gowns. The cost and silhouette of the dress may garner the bulk of that consideration, but brides might want to spend more time considering comfort.

• Know what to highlight and what to cover up. No two body types are the same, and many women feel certain parts of their bodies are their best assets while they want to downplay others. Try on gowns that play up your best features. If you have shapely legs, consider a dramatic gown with a slit to show them off. Certain gowns can enhance the decollete or show off an hourglass shape.

Remember, many gowns can be modified so that you feel secure and confident. Sleeves can be

Depending on the time of day their weddings take place, brides can spend 12 hours or more in their wedding gowns on their wedding day. However, when shopping for their gowns, brides may prioritize beauty over comfort, even though it’s entirely possible to find a gown that’s both

• Give ample consideration to all-inclusive honeymoon packages.

Whether couples are working on tight budgets or planning their honeymoons without regard to cost, all-inclusive packages may be worth the extra money up front.

All-inclusive packages tend to include meals, some beverages and fun activities that couples would otherwise have to pay for á la

To make sure brides look flawless and elegant but are still comfortable in their wedding gowns, consider the following tips.

Your beautiful rustic barn wedding destination in Albert Lea Minnesota 507-383-8878 info@thebarnofchapeaushores.com www.thebarnofchapeaushores.com

First 5 bookings receive a

$500 Discount off their rental.

Your Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Specialists!

Premier Mobile Travel Agency

Downtown Albert Lea 130 W. Clark 507-373-2473 | 800-247-5330

Specializing in Honeymoon Travel and Destination Weddings

www.4-seasonsvacations.com

Inc.

Trust our experience Love your vacation.

55 Main St., Easton, MN 56025

Your experience starts here!

Let our expertise take the work out of planning your perfect custom honeymoon or destination wedding.

Sarah Arens, CTA sarah@mytravelc.com www.mytravelc.com

507.319.4542 Albert Lea 16 years experience

507-787-2211

Hours: M-F 10:00 to 5:00 • Sat 10:00 to 4:00 Walk-ins Welcome!

Ask us about our FREE Alterations

www.SilhouetteWedding.com

Louise

Sara

Tammi

added or fabric placed to cover up any perceived flaws. Confidence and pride are important parts of the comfort factor.

• Get sized correctly. Bridal gown sizes do not coincide with street sizes. Depending on the manufacturer, brides may have to select gowns that are several sizes larger than they would normally wear. This should not be a cause for alarm. Brides should go by their measurements. Attempting to squeeze into a dress that is too small will only lead to discomfort on the wedding day.

• Purchase the right undergarments. Improperly fitting bras, shapewear and other undergarments can lead to discomfort as well. Some seamstresses can sew in supportive cups to remove the need for separate bras. Brides can explore various options to reduce the visibility of certain accoutrements.

• Move around in the gown.

Brides should not just stand in front of the mirror and smile when trying on gowns. Put them through their paces. Try sitting, bending and even a little dancing. Make sure the dress is comfortable to move around in.

• Try different options. The gown brides have in mind may not be the one they ultimately go home with. Explore different styles and materials. Choose cooler, breezier fabrics and lightweight gowns, like crêpe, georgette or organza, for summer weddings. Heavier fabrics, such as brocade, may be more comfortable in the winter.

Wedding gowns can be both beautiful and comfortable for those who know how to shop.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 3

3 tips for couples considering Friday or Sunday weddings The cost of weddings continues to rise. The average wedding cost couples and their families more than $35,000. With such a high price tag, it’s no wonder happy couples look for ways to save money.

One of the ways couples can save a sizable amount of money on their weddings is to tie the knot on Friday or Sunday instead of hosting a more traditional Saturday afternoon or evening wedding. Wedding ceremony and reception venues may charge considerably less to host weddings on Fridays or Sundays. Reception venues tend to be the largest wedding expenses, so reducing those rates can go a long way toward helping couples stay within their budgets.

While the cost-savings of Friday or Sunday weddings may be the main focus for happy couples, it’s important that grooms- and brides-to-be recognize that planning Friday or Sunday weddings may require some unique planning.

1. Avoid holiday weekends.

Three-day holiday weekends may seem like the ideal time to host Friday or Sunday weddings, as guests likely already have Friday

or Monday off from work. But the cost of travel and lodging may be much higher on holiday weekends than non-holiday weekends. That may compel some guests to decline their invitations. In addition, many families have holiday weekend traditions and it may be unfair for couples to ask them to interrupt or cancel those plans to attend their weddings.

2. Consider the timing.

When hosting a Friday wedding, couples may want to start the ceremony later than they might if they were getting married on a Saturday. That’s because out-oftown guests who don’t want to use more than one vacation day to attend the wedding may be flying in on the day of the wedding.

A later start time gives guests more flexibility when booking flights. Starting later also allows local guests to work a full day and still make it to the ceremony on time. Couples who opt for a Sunday wedding may want their ceremonies to start earlier than they would on Saturday to accommodate guests who need to go to work on Monday morning.

the vast majority of weddings take place. So couples should not simply assume a favorite deejay, band or catering company will be available to work their Friday or Sunday weddings. Couples who have particular entertainers or caterers in mind should confirm the availability of these vendors before booking a wedding and reception facility. It’s also important that couples getting married on Sundays confirm that hotel rooms will be clean and ready in time for their guests to make it to the ceremony. Many

hotels host wedding parties on Fridays and Saturday nights, and some might not be able to turn rooms around in time to accommodate Sunday wedding parties.

Tying the knot on a day other than Saturday can save couples money and help make their weddings more unique. But it’s important that couples consider more than just cost-savings before agreeing to get married on a Friday or Sunday.

JR's Barn, Waldorf, MN

Master the wedding save-the-date Many couples’ weddings take more than a year to plan. Couples want all of the special people in their lives to witness their vows, and giving guests advance notice can ensure as many loved ones as possible attend the ceremony.

To be certain that guests have ample notice to clear their schedules, many couples now turn to save-the-date cards, which announce weddings well in advance of the actual wedding day.

Save-the-date cards once were reserved only for weddings that required travel or special circumstances, such as destination weddings. But such cards have now become commonplace for all weddings. That’s because many people plan vacations or business trips anywhere from four to six months in advance. Busy people require plenty of notice to include this important date on their calendars, particularly when wedding dates fall during popular travel seasons or around the holidays.

Save-the-date cards are typically mailed six to eight months prior to the wedding, though some are sent as early as a year before the big day. Once a date and a location is secured, save-the-dates can be ordered and mailed.

Save-the-date cards require couples to assemble their guest lists well in advance of the wedding. The leading bridal

3. Confirm vendor availability.

Wedding vendors are accustomed to working on Saturdays, when

resource The Knot notes that everyone who will get a wedding invitation should also receive a save-the-date card. There’s no turning back once cards are sent, so couples will need to be certain everyone they want to attend is getting advanced notice.

It’s acceptable to mail save-the-date cards even if some wedding day details are still up in the air. Guests really only need to know the date and location of the wedding. Couples also can use the save-the-date card to direct invitees to a wedding website where guests can learn the details of the wedding as they unfold.

RSVP information does not need to be included on the save-the-date card.

Save-the-date cards are much less formal than invitations, so couples can have fun with them. They can showcase couples’ clever personalities or funny quirks. Keep in mind it is in poor taste to mention gifts or registries on save-thedate cards. There will be plenty of time to direct guests to registries later on.

Couples are increasingly turning to save-the-date cards when planning their weddings to make sure busy friends and family will have enough time to make plans to attend their weddings

DIAMOND JO CASINO EVENT CENTER

CongratulatesYou! WE HAVE THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY! Entertain up to 340 guests in our 5,000 square-foot event center.

Our exceptional staff will provide quality service and delicious food to make your day special. Your guests will enjoy our convenient parking, and nearby hotels.

FEATURES INCLUDE: • On-site event coordinator

• Linen tablecloths & napkins

• Award-winning chefs

• Set-up & clean-up

• Professional service staff

• In-room bar & bartender service

• Three bridal packages tailored for a variety of budgets • Skirting on the head table and serving tables • Discounts on block rooms at Country Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express • Access to your room the day before for decorating & the day after for gift opening

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT BY DECEMBER 31, 2017 TO RECEIVE 10% OFF REGULAR MENU PRICES. MENTION DISCOUNT CODE:

weddings

Some restrictions apply. Discount applies to food menu only.

Contact Mary Holmes, Catering Sales Manager for a free no obligation tour and to discuss all available options.

641-323-7819 | MaryHolmes@boydgaming.com

Weddings & Events 21573 45th St., Waldorf, MN 507-327-7047 www.jrsbarn.com

777 Diamond Jo Lane, Northwood, IA | DiamondJoWorth.com

139400Fjd_DW_FreebornFallBridal_GUIDE_5”x6.5”_AD_10.24

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 2

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 7

1st Comes Love Then Comes Marriage!

Pack an Emergency Wedding Day Kit Brides and grooms can use this checklist to compile a wedding day kit that meets their needs and customize with any specialty items.

Troy Thompson Indoor Sidewalk Sale November 17-18

st i l k c e h c it k g n i er d d e w o Hair dry

iron o Curling ing kit w e s i in M o s o Hair pin ins p ty fe a S o olders Ponytail h er pills o v e endors li e r in a oP wedding v f o 's # e n o Pho eye drops / n o ti lu o o Antacid s lens o Contact s o Bandage ror o Nail file Brush - Mir b m o C o r Nail clippe o s e u s is oT s g lipstick) o Tweezer water w/o ruinin s k n ri o Bottled d p o si o Straws (t o Snacks cks o Black so o Powder ttons ress) o Black bu nt wedding d a r n o o d s o rk e a D m o rs up Chalk (cove o e m fu r e ck oP remover sti t o p s S k c o a b o Earring spray tatic cling d tape S e o id -s le b u o Do pins o Corsage pads y r a it n a S o pe o Scotch ta Gum ts in M o icks ss - Toothp o Scissors lo F l ta n e oD s p o for touch-u o Makeup o sh o Extra ca of shoes e g n a h c a o or o Slippers se o h ty n a p f o irs o o Extra pa o as o Umbrell ay o Hairspr

Place Your Open House, Shower, Announcement and Thank You ads in

The Freeborn County Shopper $18 • $28 • $43 1x1 • 1x2 • 1x3 Sizes Deadline Friday at Noon for the Following Tuesday Publication

Stop In at 110 Pearl St. in Albert Lea 507-373-1310

Available for YOUR special day!

Weddings of Impeccable

Taste

Let us design the perfect cake for your special day!

Custom Cakes for All Occasions

CHIC SugarCake Designs 507-369-0272

1417 St. John Ave., Albert Lea, MN

www.sugarchiccakes.com

Dawson Limousine

Limo Bus available for large parties.

www.blissformalwear.com

Hwy 65, Mason City 641.201.1032

For your special day, choose the

American Legion

Post 56 *Dance Floor & Stage available *Linens & Select Decor *Meals to Fit any budget, Buffet or Served *Full-sized, event only bar

Call Marcia at

507-373-7993 142 N. Broadway • Albert Lea

Contact Brad 507-402-0606

M, W, F Noon-6p

T, Th Noon-8p Sat 10a-4p

507-383-1024

Rentals for all Your Special Occasions 717 E. Richway Dr., Albert Lea partysolutionsllc@gmail.com

Rental Items Available:

Wedding Announcements Save-The-Dates Wedding Invitations & RSVP's Thank-Yous Postage Rings Photographer (Wedding & Engagement) Videographer Rehearsal Dinner Food/Caterer Beverages/Liquor Cake & Cake Topper Bride’s Dress & Veil Alterations Bride’s Hair & Make-Up Accessories/Shoes Flowers Rentals Decorations Transportation Reception Site Fee Church Fees/Officiant Entertainment/Musicians/DJ Marriage License Honeymoon

We offer full service, delivery, and set-up for your event!

1330 W. Main Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

Estimated Actual

Attendants Gifts

• Canopy Tents • Dance Floor • 3 Styles of Folding Chairs • Round Tables • Banquet Tables • High Top Tables • Staging • Bean Bag Boards • Popcorn Machine

Insurance from the Best!

wedding budget

Grooms Tux

Party Solutions

LUTCF

Wedding Programs Favors Other

Totals

Paid Due

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, October 31, 2017/Page 8

Wedding Day Countdown Twelve to Eighteen Months ❏ Set the date ❏ Determine wedding budget ❏ Select wedding site ❏ Select officiant(s) ❏ Select & reserve a reception site ❏ Choose a caterer ❏ Select ceremony musicians ❏ Select reception entertainment ❏ Choose attendants ❏ Choose ushers and helpers ❏ Select photographer ❏ Select videographer ❏ Choose a wedding consultant Six to Twelve Months ❏ Choose wedding style and color scheme ❏ Decide on the size of the wedding ❏ Determine guest list ❏ Choose a florist ❏ Order your wedding dress ❏ Select & order bridesmaid dresses

❏ Confirm delivery date for dresses ❏ Update your passports, if needed ❏ Plan rehearsal/grooms dinner with fiance & all parent Three to Six Months ❏ Purchase gifts for attendants & fiance ❏ Select men’s formal wear ❏ Choose reception decorations ❏ Reserve rented items ❏ Order invitations & announcements ❏ Select & order the wedding cake ❏ Purchase wedding bands ❏ Select a transportation service ❏ Plan the honeymoon, make reservations ❏ Register with bridal registries ❏ Arrange out-of-town guest accommodations ❏ Buy your trousseau ❏ Have mothers buy dresses

Banquet Ballroom Wedgewood Cove • Perfect Location for wedding receptions, banquets, holiday parties, meetings and private dinners.

• Seats up to 440 people or separated into thirds to accommodate smaller gatherings • Two-sided full service bar

• Overlooks a full length balcony and offers scenic golf course and lake views • No Room Rental Fee • Lower minimums on Fridays & Sundays • Outdoor area by lake for ceremonies

❏ Make wedding day salon appointment ❏ Have a complete physical exam One to Three Months ❏ Select wedding reception music ❏ Have final dressing fittings ❏ Address wedding invitations ❏ Mail wedding invitations 4 to 6 weeks, no later than 3 weeks ❏ Get marriage license ❏ Confirm appointments & arrangements ❏ Confirm honeymoon arrangements ❏ Prepare and send newspaper announcement ❏ Make arrangements for parking, traffic Two Weeks ❏ Confirm details with photographer and videographer ❏ Pick up wedding rings (if engraved) ❏ Organize your trousseau & pack

Weddings Cost LESS at Walmart.

Bridal Registry Register Online with the Walmart App

Table Favors & Photo Albums

& personalized gifts

Wedding & Engagement Rings

Wedding COUNT DOWN

Get the Latest Advice on Planning the Perfect Wedding With Help from the Pros Inside this Issue!

You can print

In our Jewelry Dept

Cards

to send with invitations

Everything you need,

we've got you covered!

Wedding and Party Cakes In our Bakery

Party Platters From Our Deli

For More Information or a Personalized Quote, Contact Tina Today!

❏ Purchase travelers checks ❏ Plan a seating arrangement for reception One Week ❏ Talk with caterer, give final guest count ❏ Have groom’s formal wear fitting ❏ Have groomsmen try on and pick up their formal wear ❏ Confirm duties and time schedule with attendants and helpers ❏ Firm up any last minute arrangements for music, flowers, cake Your Wedding Day ❏ Bring your wedding guide for important names & phone numbers ❏ Stay calm and enjoy, this is your wedding day!

Fall 2017

Discover your wedding at walmart.com

and

SAVE!

Wedding & Party Supplies Save the date cards, invitations & decorations

2200 W. 9th St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-2007 ext. 4

1550 Blake Ave., Albert Lea, MN

www.wedgewoodcove.com

507-377-2998

CAKES

INSURANCE

TRAVEL

BEAUTY

DECORATIONS

WEDDING PARTY GIFTS

VENUES

RENTALS

BRIDAL REGISTRY

INVITATIONS SAVE THE DATE

GOWNS/DRESSES

WEDDING, ENGAGEMENT RINGS

RECEPTIONS

TRANSPORTATION

TUXES

PARTY TRAYS

A S p e c i a l S u p p l e m e n t To T H E F R E E B O R N C O U N T Y S H O P P E R O c t o b e r 3 1 , 2 0 1 7