17 minute read
THE WEDDING PENN
March 2020 • Volume 2 No. 1
PRESIDENT/CEO Darwin Oordt Ext. 1001 doordt@benchmarkmediallc.com
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Danielle Carl Ext. 1002 dcarl@harrisburgmagazine.com
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS FINANCE Violetta Chlaifer Ext. 1000 vchlaifer@benchmarkmediallc.com
EDITOR Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D. jgoodwin@harrisburgmagazine.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Laura Reich Ext. 1006 lreich@benchmarkmediallc.com
DIRECTOR OF SALES Chris Aloia Ext. 1003 caloia@benchmarkmediallc.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jo Ann Shover Ext. 1004 jshover@benchmarkmediallc.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Julian Rosado jrosado@benchmarkmediallc.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ross Burnett rburnett@harrisburgmagazine.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Julia McBride Ext. 1008 jmcbride@harrisburgmagazine.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cover Photo by Conte Photography (www.contephoto.com)
Visit www.WeddingPenn.com for monthly sweepstakes, tips for your big day, engagement announcements, and more!
The Right Look For Your Groom
There's so much more to a groom's wedding attire than you'd expect. Follow these tips to step up your groom’s style game on the big day. The secret is paying attention to the details and finding a look that fits (both literally and figuratively). TUXEDO
If your wedding is a “black tie” event then go with a tuxedo. Black tie “optional” then air on the side of caution and choose a tuxedo. Save the suit for semiformal weddings.
A white dinner jacket is traditionally worn in the summer or in tropical climates as an alternative to a black tuxedo. The white jacket is also a great option and look for a beach wedding. Avoid wearing a black tuxedo to daytime events prior to 6 p.m.
When wearing a two-or three-button tuxedo jacket, always leave the bottom button undone. A single-breasted jacket is traditional, but men six feet or taller may prefer a double-breasted jacket to accentuate their height. SHIRT
When shopping for a formal shirt, French cuffs and cufflinks are essential. Choose a lightweight cotton fabric, as this will be the most comfortable option. For a more formal appearance choose a wing collar. The tips or flaps of wing collar shirts should sit behind the bow tie, not on top of it. Many formal shirts also feature a different texture or pleats where the shirt will be visible under the jacket. Going conservative is the best option. VEST
Planning to remove your tuxedo jacket? Then opt for a full back vest. It’s a much cleaner, well-dressed look when your coat is off. TROUSERS
Allow your trouser color to set the tone for the color of your shoes and socks which should always be the same or darker color than your trousers. Your formal pants should always have a grosgrain, silk or satin trim down the leg. Use the outseam measurement (top By Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D.
of belt to the top of the shoe) when ordering formal trousers. Be generous with the length to ensure the trousers are not too short. They should break just at the top of the shoe. The waistband should rest at about navel level since this is not the time to wear your pants low.
SHOES
Patent leather or polished oxfords make the best formal footwear. Keep it simple and go with a round toe or lace-up or slip-on.
CUMMERBUNDS
Cummerbunds are a great accessory, especially if wearing a bow tie. Not only do they make the midsection more appealing, they also help keep shirts tucked in. Be sure to wear a cummerbund with the pleats facing up.
TIE
You have the option to choose the pre-tied bow tie or a formal version of the hanging tie if you are not wearing a cummberbund. A traditional bow tie takes some experience to tie correctly, so practice before the big day. You want to look your best for the occasion. A black tie event does not mean one has to wear a black tie. It simply means the event is formal. You can showcase your style with any color formal accessory. 7
Style Profile - Rings Hearts On Fire Destiny Lace Dream Engagement Ring - A twist on the classic solitaire, this ring features two intertwining bands that meet in the middle under a perfectly cut center diamond. A metal band winds around a diamond-accented band in a never-ending dance, creating a fun and whimsical design. Metal: 18K White Gold. Center Carat Weight: 0.30. Lashbrook Mens Zirconium Wedding Band with Cross Stain Finish Lashbrook Mens Cobalt Wedding Band with Red Enamel Baseball Stitch Pattern
Set yourself apart from the crowd by selecting a ring with unique features such as these. Rings available from Mountz Jewelers. Prices available upon request. Photos Courtesy of Mountz Jewelers
SimonG. 18K Yellow Gold Cross Over Engagement Ring Semi Mount with .50CTW Round Diamonds and Matching Wedding Band
Hearts On Fire Illustrious Diamond Eternity - A row of diamonds sits in a bead-bright setting, throwing rainbows every time it meets the light. The slim band complements any of the Illustrious Engagement rings, or it can be worn as a dainty fashion statement to lighten up any outfit. Metal: 18K White Gold. Total Carat Weight: 0.15.
Hearts on Fire Transcend Single Halo Dream Complete Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum (1.30CTW-1.50CTW)
Hearts on Fire Diamond Bar Single Prong Milgrain - Delicate milgrain detailing on the diamondaccented band of this engagement ring give the design a subtly vintage feel, while radiant round diamonds provide plenty of sparkle. Metal: 18K White Gold. Center Carat Weight: 0.33.
Hearts On Fire Deco Chic Halo engagement Ring - Old world style meets new world sparkle in this Art Deco-inspired design. A bezel-set center diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds and geometric detailing, making this architectural engagement ring a true standout. Metal: 18K White Gold. Center Carat Weight: 1.0.
Hearts On Fire Juliette Oval Halo Engagement Ring – A fancy shaped diamond, this ring features a round brilliant diamond nestled in an ovalshaped halo. Accent diamonds in a tight pave setting are so precisely placed and undeniably brilliant that the result is the illusion of one large, oval-shaped diamond. Metal: 18K Yellow Gold. Center Carat Weight: 0.33.
While some etiquette rules have gone out the window, there are still some you must follow. Understanding what is expected of everyone involves helps in the long run. The following are guidelines for brides, grooms, wedding party members and guests. INVITATIONS
Send invitations to your wedding eight weeks before the date with an RSVP date three to four weeks before the wedding. For all invitations, clarify RSVP with a sentence such as “The favor of a reply is requested by. . .” with the specific date prominently displayed. And if you receive an invitation to the wedding, don’t forget to RSVP by the date specified. Timely RSVPs help with budget planning and are good manners. INVITEE LISTS
It’s always a hard decision when you’re on a budget to decide who you want to invite to your wedding. You want to be sure that family members are invited while also taking into account a maximum number of guests. The best way to cull your list is to make clearcut decisions and then stick with them. For example, you might want to say no children younger than 14 years-old or no children at all. You might also want to invite only aunts and uncles and not first cousins. Talk it over and stick to your budget. Pick what makes sense and then don’t deviate. THANK YOU NOTES
A well written thank you note is a must and experts advise writing them within two weeks of receiving gifts. It’s no longer acceptable to write thank you notes within a year, and three months after the wedding is the latest acceptable date says experts. WEDDING PARTY DUTIES
Traditionally, the bride’s parents are usually responsible for covering a majority of the wedding expenses. Today, it is more common for the costs to be distributed amongst the couple, the bride’s parents, and also the groom’s parents.
The bride’s parents typically host the first engagement party. On the wedding day, father of the bride will escort the bride to the ceremony and walk her down the aisle, give a speech at the reception, and he is the last to leave after saying goodnight to guests. The groom’s parents traditionally pay for the rehearsal dinner. They can also financially assist the couple by contributing to wedding expenses but Wedding Etiquette 101 By Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D.
they are not required to do so.
The maid of honor’s duties may include hosting the bridal shower and bachelorette party, coordinating dress fittings assisting with wedding preparatory tasks such as addressing invitations, wrapping favors, keeping records of wedding gifts, and paying for her own wedding outfits and travel expenses.
On the wedding day, the maid of honor will help the bride dress and accompany her to the ceremony site. She will sign the marriage license as a witness, hold the bride’s bouquet at the altar, and arrange the bride’s veil and train during the ceremony. At the reception, she will gather the bridesmaids for formal pictures, mingle and dance with the best man and other important guests.
The bridesmaids’ main focus is to assist the maid of honor with wedding planning duties and to assist the bride whenever it is needed. Addressing invitations, planning the bridal shower or bachelorette party, and contributing to the cost of wedding related events, are a few examples. The bridesmaids, along with the maid of honor, all pay for their own attire, transportation, and lodging.
The biggest role of the best man is to plan and host the bachelor party with groomsmen. He also takes responsibility for coordinating formalwear fittings, picking up the groom’s tux before the wedding, and making toasts during the rehearsal dinner.
On the wedding day, the best man ensures that the groom arrives at the ceremony site on time. He brings the bride’s wedding ring, holds the officiant’s fee until the ceremony is over, and signs the marriage license as a witness. He also organizes the groomsmen for formal pictures, dances with the maid of honor, and gives the toast during the reception dinner.
The groomsmen help the best man plan and host the bachelor party. During the wedding planning process, they should check in with the groom and best man to offer assistance with any wedding related tasks.
Groomsmen are responsible for scheduling their tuxedo fittings, picking up their formalwear, and paying for their own attire and travel and lodging expenses. On the wedding day, the groomsmen arrive early to the ceremony site to greet guests. As members of the wedding party, they are expected to stay at the reception the entire time.
It is customary to thank the wedding party with personalized gifts which will show your gratitude for all their help.
DESTINATION WEDDINGS
The couple does not have to pay for any of the guests’ travel, hotel and meals, besides the ones they are inviting the guests to attend. However, at a destination wedding, the bride and groom usually pay for the bridal party accommodations. 7
William+Danielle Philipps L O C A L W E D D I N G S
M A Y 1 2 , 2 0 1 8
Photographer: Conte Photography - Kara Clouser Venue: The Lodge at Liberty Forge, Mechanicsburg, PA Rings: Engagement Ring: Blue Nile Wedding Dress: Renaissance Bridal & Prom Tux: Indochino Catering: Altland House through The Lodge at Liberty Forge Cake: Kyrsten's Sweet Designs Flowers: Blooms by Vickery DJ: Klock Entertainment Officiant: Mayor of York Springs, Jeff Shull
Raise Your Glass
How To Give A Wedding Toast By Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D.
You’ve been asked to give a wedding toast. Now what do you do? Maybe you’re the best man, Maybe you’re the maid of honor. Or maybe you’re a family friend or relative. No matter what your status, when you tell guests to raise their glass, what you say does matter. Feeling a bit nervous? Relax. We’ve got you covered. Here are some tips to take the stress out of the process and ensure you’ll give an unforgettable wedding toast that everyone will remember.
BRAINSTORM
Before you begin writing, start compiling some stories, anecdotes, and other compelling tidbits about your relationship with the bride or groom. When you began writing the actual speech pick one or two good stories to include. Avoid stories about ex-significant others, drunken incidents or anything that has the potential of embarrassing the couple. Remember to toast to the couple’s future, not to the “good old days.”
WRITE YOUR TOAST ON INDEX CARDS
Do not rely on your memory when you give the toast. Either write your speech word-for-word or outline the major points in bullet points on index cards.
trusted friend or family member and let them give you constructive feedback. If you repeatedly stumble over a word or sentence then delete what is giving you trouble. If it isn’t working then try something else. Rewrite when necessary.
KEEP IT SHORT AND SWEET
The best toasts are given straight from the heart. Some turn out to be funny and others may be sad, but the one thing they all have in common is they pay tribute to the couple. Time your speech. Do not give a toast that is over 5 minutes at the most. No one wants to hear a toast that rambles on and on.
central character keep the focus on the couple. Talk about the first time you met your friend’s new partner. Talk about how the couple is an important part of your life. Make it personal. Make it your story. Make it unique. Don’t talk about your own marriage or don't mention previous girlfriends, boyfriends, or spouses in a wedding toast. Don't talk about the cost of the wedding or wedding gifts. Don't talk about confidential information that the couple might have told you.
INCLUDE AN ENDING
End your toast on a high and happy note. Ask the wedding guests to raise their glasses and join you in wishing the newlyweds good wishes and a healthy and prosperous future. Something along the lines of “Now let us toast the happiness of Sam and Sherry. . .to Mr. and Mrs. Exline” will work. Let guests know the wedding toast is complete by adding your favorite clean downthe-hatch phrase, such as Cheers! Salut! or L'chaim!
FIND OUT WHEN TOASTS WILL BE GIVEN
Always check with the wedding emcee or someone in charge as when you will be giving your toast and in what order. You want to be prepared.
INTRODUCE YOURSELF
Not everyone at the wedding will know you. Take a deep breath and then introduce yourself. Say how you know the bride or groom so they have a better understanding of your relationship to the newlyweds.
SKIP THE JOKES
If you aren’t a stand up comedian, then forgo the jokes and keep it straight. While you may have the urge to be funny, remember that your words will be set in stone.
DON’T DRINK ALCOHOL UNTIL AFTER YOU GIVE THE TOAST
Never give the toast if you are drunk. Period. Refrain from alcohol until after you deliver your speech. 7
Extra Sparkle for Your Big Day
By Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D.
Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets and other accessories can complement your wedding dress and give you that extra “sparkle” on your big day. Here are some tips to guide you with your selections and websites to check out for more information.
Sash or Belt
Whether beaded, floral, rhinestone, or sequins— sashes or belts are great for highlighting the waistline and creating a tapered, defined look. You can also select from simple designs from vintage to designer styles. There are so many colors and materials to c h o o s e f r o m ,
that no matter what you decide to go with, a sash or belt will only accentuate the dress of your dreams. www.bella-tiara.com
Gloves
Your hands are an integral element on your wedding day so dress them up with gloves. From fingerless, half-finger, wrist or opera length, you’ll find more than just plain white gloves. Brown, black, and red are just a few of the latest trends. Gloves can also be adorned with elegant beads, flowers, pearls, sequins, and crystals. www.theweddingoutlet.com
Jacket
If you thought a jacket is a must-have only for a fall or winter wedding you will be surprised to find out that jackets are used in any season. If you’re tying the knot in the spring or summer, consider a jacket made of lace or tulle. Some jackets are also small enough to look like shrugs, stoles, or boleros. But the best part of a jacket is that it ca bring out a bride’s waist and the gown as well. www.ericdress.com
a huge comfort knowing that these things are close at hand just in case. Plus, with so many colors, styles, and sizes, it’s a fun addition to your wedding attire and totally practical to boot. www.chicastic.com
Jewelry
The sky’s the limit with jewelry. Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can complement your wedding dress and give you that extra “sparkle” on your wedding day. Consider your neckline and sleeve patterns with the type of jewelry you have in mind. Also consider hanging earrings if your dress has a closed neck front. To play it safe select pearls. A girl’s best friend, pearls look classy for a traditional wedding, and if you like more color, choose colored pearls to go with your color theme. The choice is yours. www. helzberg.com 7
directory vendor
Search our directory of local wedding vendors to find the best local professionals for your special day. Our preferred vendors will keep your wedding budget in mind and will offer you the best value for your dollar. Check them out below. And don't forget to mention that you saw them on our list.
CATERER HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE
Soul House Cafe 717-236-3500 soul-house-cafe.business.site Middletown, PA
EVENT RENTALS
Golden Rentals 717-432-8184 www.goldenrentals.com Dillsburg, PA
FLORIST
Olive and Orange Floral Co. 717-602-3870
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Makeup by Chelsea 717-736-1500
Makeup by Marianne Hunt 954-295-4341
Running Springs Farm www.runningspringsfarm.net Spring Glen, PA
JEWELERS
Mountz Jewelers 717-243-4936 | Carlisle, PA 717-763-1199 | Camp Hill, PA 717-545-7508 | Harrisburg, PA www.mountzjewelers.com
Munn's Diamond Gallery 717-761-8310 www.munns.net Lemoyne, PA
VENUE
AACA Museum Inc. 717-561-7100 www.cityhousebb.com Hershey, PA
City House Bed & Breakfast 717-903-2489 www.cityhousebb.com Harrisburg, PA
Colonial Golf and Tennis Club 717-657-3212 www.colonialgolftennis.com Harrisburg, PA
Hilton in Harrisburg 717-233-6000s www.hilton.com Harrisburg, PA Radisson Hotel Harrisburg 717-433-9722 www.radisson.com Camp Hill, PA
Rusty Rail Brewing Company 570-966-6470 www.rustyrailbrewing.com Mifflinburg, PA
The Carlisle Vault 717-382-8588 carlislevault www.carlislevault.com Carlisle, PA
The Peter Allen House 717-921-1726 www.thepeterallenhouse.com Dauphin, PA
WEDDING & EVENT PLANNER
That's It! Wedding Concepts 717-645-5700
WEDDING SPECIALIST
The JDK Group 717-730-4661 www.thejdkgroup.com Camp Hill, PA
