Fall 2012 Bridal Tab

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 8

Edible Wedding Favors Make a Fine Choice A token of appreciation for guests is requisite at wedding receptions. Wedding favors enable attendees to walk away from the event with a memento and also a small thank you for their participation and celebration of this momentous event. Brides- and grooms-to-be have different ideas when it comes to wedding favors. Guests have their own opinions, too. As customs and trends change, so do the options in wedding favors. In the past, wedding favors were not much different from the items offered today, and not every guest was privy to a take-home trinket. In the 16th century, wedding favors were a sign of extravagance and showed off the family's wealth to the guests. Only rich and prominent people during those times could afford and provide sophisticated gifts to their guests. Some favors symbolized luck, and sharing them with guests ensured good luck to all as well. Almonds were common favors because they symbolized fertility, health, happiness, wealth, and longevity. Bonbonnieres were once a popular wedding favor. A bonbonniere is a small, decorative box made of porcelain, crystal or gold. It is embellished with colorful and precious gems. Inside the box houses a sweet delicacy, often called a bonbon. In modern times, many couples are returning to the tradition of giving bonbonnieres or other edible favors as their wedding celebration thank-you’s. Edible favors are often economical and guests tend to appreciate them. After all, guests have to find a nook in their homes in which to house an engraved ice cream scooper or yet another small statuette. Edible gifts can be as varied as a person desires. Candy-coated almonds are still popular, but many couples have expanded their choices and have created new trends in favors. For those couples seeking a unique edible favor for the wedding, here are some suggestions. * Cake or brownie pops: Food on a stick has long been a favorite of many, but the

concept has been taken to new heights with the creation of cake pops. These are small balls of cake or brownie that are made from cake crumbs and frosting. The balls are covered in candy melts or chocolate and served on a stick. Chocolate artists can transform ordinary cake pops into works of art with intricate piping designs on the hard, outer shell. Clear cello bags and decorative ribbon may be all that's necessary for a classic wrapping. * Cookies: Pastry arts continue to be popular favors for any occasion. Many bakeries offer intricately designed and decorated cookies that can pertain to any

theme. Think about a wedding couple or a set of rings as the cookie of choice for a wedding favor. Most cookies last 2 to 3 weeks, so they can be purchased in advance. * Petit fours: These bite-sized pastries lend themselves well to wedding favors. They can easily be paired and put in small boxes as take-home treats. Some bakeries create petit fours on demand. * Chocolate: Gourmet chocolate remains a popular edible favor. Choose among truffles, caramels, chocolate-covered pretzels, or any favorite treat. Depending on the chocolatier, favors may come pre-

Wedding Day

boxed and wrapped. * Seasonal treats: If a wedding coincides with a particular season or holiday, favors can be coordinated as well. Think caramel-covered apples for fall parties, chocolate bunnies for spring events, spiced cake bars for the winter holidays or lemon tarts for summer weddings. Wedding favors have been a part of wedding ceremonies for centuries. Edible gifts are thoughtful and flavorful mementos of the wedding day.

Fall Wedding Guide A Special Supplement to the Freeborn County Shopper

October 30, 2012

Weddings of Impeccable Taste

Church & Reception Perfection

“Let us design the perfect cake for your Special Day!” Custom Cakes for Descriminating Tastes

Sugar Chic

Cake Designs

507-369-0272 • www.sugarchiccakes.com 1417 St. John Ave. • Albert Lea, MN

Trust Addie’s to Make Your Wedding Beautiful!

A

From set up to take down, we believe every wedding is a work of art. Tell us your dream and we’ll handle the details

ccents

Jolene Bute - Owner/Designer 155 S. Broadway • Alden, MN 507-874-3425

Custom Bridal & Bridesmaids Bouquets • Corsages & Boutonnieres • Cake Flowers

Derek & Kristin Overland Married October 6, 2012

Creative Ceremony & Reception Arrangements

What's Inside...

• Personal Consultants to Work Within Your Budget

Wedding Planning A to Z Edible Favors Financing 101 Honeymoon Help Personalized Receptions

Along with Local Advertisers 216 So. Broadway Ave. • Albert Lea • 507-377-2081

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 2

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 7

An A to Z of Wedding Planning Effective wedding planning is the keystone to any wedding, so if you need some help to get started then take a look through this simple A to Z checklist. A is for Alcohol – If your budget allows, then treat your guests to champagne for the toasts and wine for the wedding reception. Don't forget those guests who don't drink alcohol and make sure you have a nice alternative for them. B is for Breakfast – Never skip breakfast on your wedding day. You will go a long time before you eat again so make sure you have something nutritious to keep you going and to calm your nerves. C is for Cosmetics – Choose the best cosmetics for your attire and make you feel comfortable. Don’t wear more makeup then you would normally and don't be pushed into buying expensive products. D is for Dress – Your wedding dress is the thing you will be most excited about and the thing that your guests will be eager to see. Stick to a style that is flattering to you and do not be tempted to go over the top to impress. E is for Entertainment – The majority of wedding receptions are followed by an evening party, so keep your guests entertained with a great DJ, live band or some other form of entertainment. F is for Family – If you have family members joining you for your big day that you haven't seen in awhile, make sure you make time to talk to them throughout the day.

G is for Gifts – Put together a gift registry with a wide choice of items and a wide price range to fit every guest’s budget. H is for Honeymoon – Make sure you look out for special deals with travel agents and book it early to avoid any disappointment, particularly in the peak season. I is for Invites – Get these sent out at least six weeks before the wedding day so your guests have time to respond. Don't forget to put on them the basic information about your wedding including location, date and time! J is for Jewelry –Choose simple pieces that will compliment and not compete with your wedding dress. K is for Kind Advice – Take on board any advice family members may try to give you, but keep in mind that is your wedding and you should have what you want. L is for Laughter – Stay relaxed and remember to smile and laugh. If you are happy then your guests are happy too! M is for Money – Your wedding budget is vital to the success of your wedding planning, so decide on what you can realistically afford to spend and stick to it. You do not want to start married life in debt. N is for Nails – You will showing off your new wedding ring a lot over the course of the day and no doubt will have to pose for photographs. So make sure your nails and hands are looking in the best shape possible. O is for Organization – Proper planning and clever organization is the key to a sucCustom Shower, Wedding & Graduation Invitations

Designs by Kristin

Wedding Budget

cessful wedding. P is for Photographer – Ask to see previous work when looking at photographers and make sure you get a written quote before you book. Q is for Qualms – Many people will have a few qualms about their wedding before the day itself. It is quite normal and if you are really worried then talk with a close friend or relative about your fears. R is for Reception – this is the part of the day that most people will look forward to. Take some time to choose the right venue. Ask for a written statement of everything the venue will provide you along with the total cost before you book. S is for Speech – Is traditional for the male members of the wedding party to make the speeches, but many brides are getting in on the act as well these days. If you feel comfortable making a speech then by all means do so and use notes if you need to. T is for Transport – Everyone will need to get to the church and then on to the reception, so you will need to make arrangements for this. Again when you looking into your options, get a written quote first. U is for Underwear – Your wedding lingerie is vital to your comfort and the look and fit of your wedding dress. Find something that is fitting of the occasion, but make sure it is comfortable. This is the last thing you want taking focus away from your enjoyment of the day! V is for Vows – A tradition that hasn't gone out of fashion is wedding vows.

Bridal Special AFTER

Dawson Limousine

Limo Bus r available fo . large parties

Available for your special day!

Contact Brad 507-402-0606

Beau Lashes tiful a necess re a ity!!

Full Set of eyelash extensions & a fill for $100 Total Savings of over $100

Makeup Artistry by Brooke 405 E Williams St. (Dinah’s Style) Albert Lea, MN 56007

507-259-7352

W is for Wedding Rings – You can choose from a variety of materials for your wedding rings including the traditional band of gold. If you want something more unique and personal, look for a jeweler who will design and make some for you. X is for Kisses – Include some lip balm in your bridal handbag as you will be dishing out and receiving a lot of kisses throughout the day! Y is for Why? – Try to find some time alone together before and after the ceremony so you can have a few moments together to enjoy the moment and the extraordinary commitment you are making to each other. Z is for Zzzz – Make sure you get plenty of rest leading up to big day. Recent reports suggest that nearly a third of all newlyweds fall straight to sleep on their wedding nights. Ah well, you've got the rest of your lives...

makeupartistrybybrooke@hotmail.com

Wedding Announcements Wedding Invitations Thank-Yous Wedding Program Postage Rings Photographer Videgrapher Rehearsal Dinner Food/Caterer Beverages Cake Bride’s Dress Bride’s Veil Accessories/Shoes Grooms Tux Flowers

For Youth Development For Healthy Living For Social Responsibility

Albert Lea Family Y

2021 W. Main St, Albert Lea, MN 56007 373-8228 • www.ymcaal.org Check out your Family Y program opportunities today

Reception Perfection Let Us Help You Make Your Wedding Reception PERFECT!

BEFORE

.ULVWLQ 2YHUODQG kristinmarieoverland@gmail.com

Some will choose traditional ones while others will write their own. Decide which option will be best for you depending on if your wedding is more traditional or more modern.

• Receptions & Dances • Seating For Up To 300 Guests • Unique Menu Selections • Large Dance Floor All the Best Value for Your Dollar Call for More Details

EAGLES

205 W. William, Albert Lea 373-1162

Rentals Decorations Transportation Reception Site Fee Church Fees/Officiant Entertainment/Musicians Attendants Gifts Marriage License Honeymoon Other

Totals

Estimated

Actual

Paid

Due

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 3

Financing 101 1. Talk About It The first step every couple should take once they are married is to sit down and talk about their financial history. You have to be open and honest and talk about any debt, previous problems, potential budget plans and everything else that has to do with how you spend, save and manage money in general. You do not want to be surprised by debt, outstanding student loans or other costs you will be jointly responsible for. This can be an uncomfortable and stressful thing to talk about, so make sure you are ready and willing to be open with your partner.

2. Set A Budget It is always healthy to get the big picture. This is why a newlywed couple should sit down and compare finances with one another

St. Edward’s Hospitality

Honeymoon Help • How much are you making? • How much are you spending? • How much are you saving? • Where can you improve? • What are your future financial goals? After you have laid out the groundwork, set up a budget. Putting together a budget will make it easier to manage your finances and see how much each person is contributing. By establishing your future financial goals you can plan for children, buying a house or anything else you want to do in order to grow your family.

3. Pick a Leader It is best to decide who will be in charge of the budget. Even if both partners will manage money, it is still best to outline how the final financial decisions will be made. Some families have one spouse that prefers

to handle the money while the other doesn’t. You need to decide how much each person can spend without consulting the other on the purchase.

4. Should you Merge Accounts? If you would rather split bills and expenses, maintaining separate checking accounts would be the best option. Some couples do not want to combine incomes or debt. Other couples can opt for a combination of both by having a joint checking account for expenses and bills, and two separate accounts for other expenses that may not concern each another. The final option is having one joint account for everything. Each couple functions differently and there is no right answer for which to choose. A discussion will help you and your spouse figure out which route works best for you.

Planning for your

Happily Ever After... Catering for your Reception at the Corcoran Center

Visit Wells federal Bank to find the deposit and loan programs to help make your dreams come true.

Delicious food, served HOT! Call Sue Viehauser at 433-1841

Once you have decided on a plan, all you need to do is open the new joint checking account. Close any accounts that you won’t be using anymore. Sometimes couples decide to keep one account and just add their spouse as an administrator. If you do decide to shop around for a new bank account it is crucial to compare rates before you start a new account.

David K Nelson (507) 383-1379 djdave@djdave.net www.djdave.net

For your special day, choose the

American Legion Post 56

*Spacious Private Banquet Room with capacity up to 520 *Dance Floor & Stage available *Linens & Select Decor

*Full-sized, event only bar Bridge Avenue Location 2630 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea 507-373-7227

Nelson’s Market Place 1619 W. Main St., Albert Lea 507-373-9889

www.wellsfederal.com

How early should couples book their honeymoon travel? Book early — ideally, nine months out. Most hotels and suppliers have set their rates for the following year, and booking early allows you to take your time, make the right decisions and secure your first choice in airfare and accommodations. After all, your honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Should couples mention honeymoon when making reservations?

Always! This is a special occasion, and everyone should know. You might even get lucky and have someone extend you a little honeymoon VIP treatment; perks could include a bottle of champagne or a possible upgrade in room category. Most likely, you won’t need to bring your marriage license to receive honeymoon extras, but you should bring a copy of it just in case you have an emergency (e.g., name-change issues, medical emergencies, etc.) and need proof. If the bride is changing her last name,

An Affair to Remember

*Meals to Fit any budget, Buffet or Served

2000 W. Oakland Ave., Austin, MN

Dinner and Dance at one convenient location

5. Making the Merge

Call Dave at

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

Make your wedding reception a truly exceptional event! Grooms Suppers Weddings Anniversaries Catering for any size group from full sit down meals to sandwiches, salads and desserts to go

Conger Catering & Party Shop Call 507-265-3265 98 Maple St., Conger

Music & Light Show full service disk jockey

• Weddings • Personal Parties • School Dances • Business Events

(507) 369-5092

Destination Wedding and Honeymoon

Headquarters!

Mexico, Hawaii, Jamaica, Las Vegas

Get Married or Honeymoon at a dream come true destination! 507-373-2473 • 800-247-5330 130 W. Clark, Albert Lea

www.4-seasonsvacations.com

• Anniversaries • Class Reunions • Wide Range of Music • Exciting Light Show

what name should she use on her travel bookings? The biggest issue is that your plane ticket and your ID must match. Realistically, the plane ticket should be issued in the maiden name since it takes time to file for a new passport, driver’s license, etc. But the hotel reservations can be made under “Mr. and Mrs.”; that way, you get to enjoy using your new name immediately. Should couples book their activities in advance or just work with their resort concierge onsite? Book your must-do activities in advance so they don’t get filled up. Leave yourself some free time so you can not only relax and enjoy the resort but also add excursions you decide to do while in your locale.

Is it worth it to buy travel insurance? Absolutely! It’s so much better to be protected so you aren’t disappointed or scrambling if your honeymoon plans have to change. There are many policies that allow you to cancel for any reason, not just for medical reasons. These policies have higher premiums but also give you much greater flexibility. In today’s world, you just never know what might happen. Where are the best places to get reliable, up-to-date info on travel deals and specials? Check your travel agent’s website for the latest travel news. Check guidebook sites like Fodor’s and Frommer’s. Beware of websites that tout deals, as most of these promotions really are not deals.

Mary's Dry Cleaning 1617 S.E. Broadway, Albert Lea

507-373-6279

Wedding Dresses Cleaned & Boxed Locally Owned Jesse & Mary Zamora

You Could Frame... • Signature Mats • Wedding Invitations • Engagement Photos • Love Letters • Parents Wedding Photos •M emory Boxes of Your Special Day

100% Tailor-Made Romance Travel Planning We are experienced travel professionals specializing in Honeymoon Travel and Destination Weddings. Contact one of our travel consultants today!

www.certifiedtravelmn.com agent@certifiedtravelmn.com.

CERTIFIED TRAVEL CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

Downtown • Albert Lea • 377-0848

Northbridge Mall - Albert Lea, MN

507-373-8830

1-888-339-9954

“Because... Customer Service Matters!”

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 30, 2012/Page 5

Wedding Receptions to Dream About There is a lot of thought and planning

Perhaps you are a couple that wants

be a good addition. Using all the same

That is an essential of wedding recep-

that goes into wedding receptions. In order to decide on the right style, you will likely consider a number of ideas.

one more chance to show some individuality before you get married. One way you can do this is by having a groom's cake that represents what the groom loves, and have the main wedding cake be more of a representation of who the bride is. The groom's cake

flowers throughout and other types of uniformity will lend the decorations to an ultra simple style as well. A more old fashioned, flowery, or Victorian style might be what you prefer. With this, you can use a variety of flowers, lots of lace, ribbon and other fluffy ac-

tions. Even having a photographer, you will miss moments and details. It is a fun idea to put a disposable camera at each table for the guests to use. After everything is done, you can send the cameras away and get all of those fun memories.

could be anything from the head of a deer, to a cake made in the colors of

cessories for the decor.

Wedding receptions vary from couple to couple. Some people want their reception to remind them of how they met or started dating, some people want individuality that represents the bride and groom uniquely, but most like a specific overall style. If your first date was at a Chinese restaurant then perhaps you would like some Chinese flair at your receptions. You could do this by having a Chinese table dedicated to just Chinese food, and you could have a bowl of fun fortune cookies for people to take. If your first date was at an ice cream shop, then you could buy cartons from the

his favorite sport's team.

your personality that is okay. Do not be afraid to think outside of the box

You might not care so much about those distinct personal touches at wedding receptions as you care about the overall style of the reception. You

elements. It is you and your spouse's day, and you will want to remember the little details. Sometimes the way you can best remember those little de-

and really show who you are with the style of your reception. Guests will enjoy it so much more if it truly represents who you are.

might like things rustic, ultra simple, or you might like things very Victorian in style and more old fashioned.

tails is by making sure to have a good photographer to capture everything.

Some ideas for the rustic style are to use textures and fabrics to represent

ice cream shop and have a table set up to look like an ice cream shop and give guests dishes of the ice cream

it. Using burlap is a good choice along with cut flowers and even roses, the combination can be beautiful. Ultra

you had on that first date. The ideas in this area are numerous.

simple wedding receptions can be just as beautiful. For this style, the use of architectural elements like pillars will

MJLF )FJEFNBO Ä&#x160; .JLF 5SZUUFO Ä&#x160; NJLFTQIPUPCPPUI!ZBIPP DPN

â&#x20AC;˘ weddings â&#x20AC;˘ proms â&#x20AC;˘ corporate events â&#x20AC;˘ trade shows

.JLFĂŤT photo booth

â&#x20AC;˘ holiday parties

.BLJOH NFNPSJFTÄ&#x2019;

â&#x20AC;˘ school dances

â&#x20AC;˘ graduation

Mike Trytten Mike Heideman 507-383-8992 507-383-6019 mikesphotobooth@yahoo.com

â&#x20AC;˘ much more

wFEEJOHT Ă˛ QSPNT Ă˛ DPSQPSBUF FWFOUT Ă˛ USBEF TIPXT Ă˛ IPMJEBZ QBSUJFT Ă˛ HSBEVBUJPO Ă˛ TDIPPM EBODFT

albert leaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only all-inclusive experience

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Party Just Waiting to Happen Tents Tables/ Chairs Glassware

Flatware Linens Decorating And More!

Newly Remodeled Rooms Starts with the right venue

â&#x20AC;˘ Receptions / Grooms Dinners â&#x20AC;˘ Create Your Own Menu from our Variety of Menu Choices â&#x20AC;˘ Great Atmosphere â&#x20AC;˘ Affordable Prices

For More Info or to Book an Event Call Betty at 507-369-5434

Moose Lodge #1703

1623 W. Main St., Albert Lea Mankato: (800) 322-0072 New Prague: (952) 758-5715 1707 Madison Ave. 56001 Jct. Hwy. 13 & 19, 5607

Great Banquet Facilities that Host up to 400 people Experienced Staff with a Reputation of Great Food & Service

Serenaded Carriage and Trolley Service for your Special Event

2013

Bridal Expo

Gerry Buse 507-399-4505 Find Us on Facebook: Rainbow Country Trolley

Sunday January 13 12-5 pm

If none of these styles or ideas fit With any of the above styles, couples could also add in their own personal

Rainbow Country Experience

Join Us For Our

Join Us on

I-90 Exit 157 & Bridge Ave., Albert Lea Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10-9, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5 www.northbridgemall.com

Investing in Your Future Checking/Savings Online Banking Online Bill Pay Retirement Accounts Health Savings Home Loans Home Equity Home Improvement Auto Loans Personal Loans Debit Cards Safe Deposit Boxes Business Loans Senior Club & More

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the Price of Decorating your New Home Stress You Out!

Budget Blinds offers the perfect marriage of beauty and affordability

Experience d Personal Sty le Consultant

Free & ti s E mates n o ti Installa

Budget BlindsÂŽ 310 1st Ave. S. â&#x20AC;˘ Albert Lea

Toll Free 877-373-8535 or 507-373-8535 w w w. c o o lw i n d ow s h a d e s . c o m

The perfect dress from every view, is awaiting you at

The Silhouette Voted Readers Choice Best Bank 2012

Full Service Banking! Excellent Customer Service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Locally Owned

Plus: Big Island Grill & Bar on Site

www.abvialbertlea.com

Check Out Our 2 Room Suite with Huge Flat Screen TV & 2 Bathrooms! Land Between The Lakes Event Center 2306 E. Main Street Albert Lea, MN 507-373-6471 866-373-6471

www.securitybankmn.com â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Here to Grow With Youâ&#x20AC;?

437 Bridge | Albert Lea | 373-1481 201 Main St. | Emmons | 297-5461

Inc.

Easton, MN 56025 507-787-2211

www.SilhouetteWedding.com