Spring/Summer 2020
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Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 2
a e t a re c o t How
y a d g n i d wed edule sch
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edding days can be hectic. In fact, many couples note after tying the knot that their wedding days were so busy that the ceremonies and receptions were over before they knew it. Creating a wedding day schedule can seem like a daunting task. Couples tend to have lots of things to do before saying “I do,” and organizing everything so ceremonies begin on time can seem as puzzling as a brain teaser. But certain scheduling strategies can help couples ensure they look their best and make it to the altar on time.
START WITH THE CEREMONY.
Couples can establish a framework for their wedding day schedule by working back from the ceremony. Once the ceremony time is set, couples who plan to take photos before their ceremonies can then work with their photographers to determine how much time they will need for photos and where they want to take the photos. Bridal parties may need transportation to the photo session, so determining when and where to take photos before the ceremony gives couples an idea of when to arrange for pickup.
CONFIRM WHEN THE WEDDING VENUE IS OPEN TO THE WEDDING PARTY.
Before booking hair and makeup appointments, couples should confirm when they will be able to access their wedding venue. Brides may want to get their hair and makeup done at the ceremony sight, but that may only be possible if the venue opens early for the wedding party. If it does not, then brides must account for transportation time to the ceremony sight when making their wedding day schedules.
DETERMINE HOW MUCH TIME IS NEEDED FOR HAIR AND MAKEUP.
Weddings that feature large bridal parties will require more time for hair and makeup than ceremonies with small bridal parties. Grooms and groomsmen often take care of their own hair, though some grooms might want to schedule hot shaves for themselves and their groomsmen. Grooms should ask groomsmen if they want a hot shave and then work with their barbers to determine how much time it will take to tend to all participants. Brides with large bridal parties may need to book more than two hair and makeup artists so everyone can get done on time. Wedding hair and makeup sessions can last several hours for large bridal parties, so brides should schedule
their sessions early if their parties are big.
MAKE LUNCH ARRANGEMENTS.
SCHEDULE TO ONE ANOTHER AND THE BRIDAL PARTY.
Once the wedding day schedule has been devised, Some couples choose to couples should share it with tie the knot and host their each other and their wedding Unlimited Reception Package receptions at the same venue. parties. Grooms’ wedding In such instances, if brides day to-do lists might not be are getting their hairDigital and Photo Booth as extensive as brides’, but makeup done at the venue, grooms should still be kept ask the venue representative in the loop regarding the www.TurnItUpProductions.com if lunch can be provided to the bridal party. Some venues schedule so they can help if anyone has questions may include small lunch or if something goes awry. buffets in their reception Sharing the schedule with costs, while others might the wedding party decreases charge extra. Confirm the the chances of someone availability and costs, and being late or missing an if it’s unavailable or too appointment. expensive, then arrange for Unlimited Reception Package lunch to be delivered. Either Couples can solve the way, couples should not skipDigital Photo Booth riddle of scheduling their lunch, as it may be their only wedding days by working chance to eat until after the backwards and asking their ceremony. www.TurnItUpProductions.com vendors to cooperate in laying out the day’s events. DISTRIBUTE YOUR
Unlimited Reception Package Digital Photo Booth
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MIDLAND DAILY NEWS
Guide to a successful
destination wedding
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If budget allows, book a trip to the intended destination to see the facilities and location, advise the experts at Brides magazine. Working with vendors in person also can simplify sorting out certain details.
SEND SAVE-THE-DATE CARDS PROMPTLY.
25%
I
magine reciting vows along the Mediterranean coast or amid pastel-hued homes and swaying palm trees. For the travel-inclined, destination weddings present the perfect opportunity to meld wedding and honeymoon all into one — with family and friends around to enjoy the magic. The Knot Real Weddings Study, the largest survey of its kind, surveys thousands of American brides and grooms to determine the latest wedding trends. In its 2018 report, The Knot revealed 25 percent of weddings that took place that year were destination weddings. Couples are increasingly leaning on entertainment and personalization to create memorable experiences for their guests, and destination weddings are great ways to create those unique experiences.
of couples tying the knot choose to have destination weddings.
Unlike traditional weddings in which reminders can be sent roughly six months before the wedding, savethe-date cards for destination weddings should be mailed at least nine months to a year in advance of the big day.
HIRE A PROFESSIONAL.
While planning a wedding inevitably involves some obstacles and even some stress, planning a destination wedding presents a unique set of obstacles. Before couples commit to a destination wedding, it’s important to first consider a few factors to ensure knots get tied without a hitch.
Professional wedding planners may prove invaluable when it comes to destination weddings. Rather than organizing everything on your own, you can hire a wedding planner to take care of itineraries, obtain information about necessary travel documents, coordinate with local vendors, and much more.
PICK A MEANINGFUL LOCATION
CONSIDER TOURIST SEASONS.
(but one that works for guests, too). Exchanging vows at a favorite hiking spot can give guests an inside view into what makes you tick as a couple, but the location of the ceremony should not come at the expense of practicality. Choose a locale that speaks to you but will also offer the convenience and amenities that work for the guests who will be traveling.
SEE THE PLACE IN PERSON.
If you can dream it, we can make it come true!
Weather tends to be best during tourist seasons. Therefore, make sure to reserve hotel room blocks and venues promptly. Slightly before or after peak season may still be fine, but ensure that vendors will be available and look into weather trends carefully before choosing a date. Research the legality. According to The Knot, many countries have residency requirements, which means you must live in that country for a certain period of time before the ceremony. Factor this into budget and availability.
SCALE BACK ON DIY.
Handling many of the details while getting married close to home can be challenging, but doing so for a destination wedding can be difficult to organize. Scale back on DIY, leaving many of the details to the professionals. Destination weddings require extra planning, but they can be memorable ways for couples to start their new life together.
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Tips for choosing a
Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 4
wedding reception menu
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eddings are memorable for a host of reasons. While couples remember their weddings because they mark the day they officially tied the knot, guests may remember weddings for other reasons, including the food served at the reception.
Some wedding venues are known for their stunning landscapes, while others build their reputations on unique interiors that provide unforgettable ambiance. But regardless of where weddings take place, guests are liable to discuss the food served at the reception. Guests might rave about the escargot or complain that the fish was flaky, but couples who choose reception menus wisely can go a long way toward ensuring there are more compliments than complaints once the dinner bell rings.
DON’T ZERO IN ON SPECIALTIES.
According to The Knot 2019 Real Weddings Study, a survey of nearly 13,000 brides and grooms who tied the knot in 2019, the average wedding hosted 136 guests. While couples might be tempted by specialty
dishes when choosing their wedding menus, couples who are hosting dozens, if not hundreds, of guests should keep things simple.
CONSIDER POTENTIAL ALLERGIES.
In regard to entrées, make sure guests with food allergies can choose something that won’t make them sick. According to Food Allergy Research & Education®, an organization devoted to improving the quality of life of individuals with food allergies, some common foods cause the majority of allergic reactions. Peanuts, soy, sesame, and shellfish are among the most common food allergies, according to FARE®. FARE also notes that allergies to wheat, milk and eggs are common in children. While such foods can still be served at wedding receptions, make sure to also include foods that are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions. Couples can even ask guests to inform them of any food allergies.
DON’T HESITATE TO OFFER A FAVORITE FOOD.
While specialty entrées might not be a great choice, especially at large receptions where lots of mouths must be fed, a couple who has a favorite food that’s symbolic of their relationship should not hesitate to offer it
during the cocktail hour. For example, a couple who met in Thailand may want to offer a favorite Thai dish.
OFFER AN ELABORATE DESSERT. The last bite guests will
take is dessert, so couples who want their guests to go home raving about the food may want to offer something special after the entrées have been taken away. Some guests may not indulge, but those who do might end their nights thinking about the delicious dessert they enjoyed as the festivities drew to a close. If the dessert is especially unique, offer something more traditional alongside it for more hesitant guests. Choosing a wedding menu should be fun. Menus should reflect not only couples’ tastes but also include some popular foods so no one goes home hungry.
BRIDES ARE OUR
Specialty Bouquets Centerpieces Corsages Boutonnières Showers Attendants Gifts
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Monday - Friday 10 – 6 • Saturday 9:30 - 3:30
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5 great reasons to take
engagement photos
4. THE BRIDE AND GROOM HAVE SAVETHE-DATE OR SOCIAL MEDIA PHOTOS.
D
uring their engagements, couples will make many decisions in regard to their weddings. Wedding planning can sometimes seem like a runaway train of appointments, schedules and deadlines. As a result, some couples do not take the time to enjoy being engaged, which is a special and unique time in their lives. Engagement photo shoots can be a unique way for couples to commemorate and enjoy the months preceding their weddings. Engagement photos memorialize the engagement and provide many additional benefits as well.
1. ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOTS GIVE COUPLES A CHANCE TO CONNECT WITH THEIR PHOTOGRAPHERS.
Booking an engagement photo shoot provides helpful information to both the couple and the photographer. The photographer gets to see how the couple interacts in front of the lens and can determine any insecurities or strengths and weaknesses couples may have. These lessons can be filed away and help make wedding day photos look better. Similarly, spending time with the photographer gives the couple an opportunity to develop a rapport with their photographer. If couples and their photographer don’t click, scheduling an engagement shoot well in advance of the wedding gives
couples a chance to find someone else to take their photos.
2. AN ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOT GIVES COUPLES TIME TO SPEND TOGETHER. An engagement photo shoot is an ideal time to spend an afternoon in a special location focusing on each other without wedding planning taking up your time.
3. PHOTO SHOOTS PROVIDE A CHANCE TO GET COMFORTABLE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. Professional photographs taken before the wedding enables couples to view how they will appear in pictures. Seeing these photos might help couples grow more comfortable in front of the camera. This practice can help couples temper their anxieties prior to the wedding. An engagement shoot also can be a great time for couples to speak with their photographers about angles or styles they prefer or dislike.
Engagement photographs can be used for save-thedate cards or social media postings (check with the photographer for licensing agreements). This can be a great way to spread excitement about the upcoming nuptials.
5. PHOTO SHOOTS PROVIDE A CHANCE TO EXPERIMENT WITH VIVID BACKDROPS. Engagement photography gives couples plenty of opportunities to experiment with different locales, which may not be possible come the wedding day. Engagement photography can be a worthwhile inclusion in pre-wedding celebrations.
Showers Bachelorette & Bachelor Partys Pavilion 10-250 Seating Beautiful Outdoor Setting Weddings
Currie Golf Course 1300 Currie Pkwy. • Midland, MI
839-9600
www.curriegolf.com
The largest golf complex in the Tri-Cities
The evolution of
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wedding favors
edding favors have changed — and in many cases for the better. Favors have evolved from the inexpensive trinkets purchased in bulk into more personalized mementos that guests can cherish. Today’s couples are interested in customizing their weddings and offering guests something meaningful, or at the very least, edible, so that favors don’t immediately get relegated to the trash can. According to Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards in California, favors have moved from “goodie bags” toward items that are experimental and fun. Wedding planners from across the country offer these wedding favor trends that couples may want to incorporate into their own celebrations.
WELCOME BAGS
Rather than take-home bags, welcome bags have replaced the traditional favor trinket at some weddings. Many weddings have become multi-day events that ask guests traveling from out of town to attend a wedding weekend. To help greet them and make their experience memorable, couples may fill a gift bag with items guests can use or enjoy during their stay — like a bottle of locally sourced maple syrup or some handmade soaps from a nearby shopkeeper.
EXPERIENCE GIFTS
Instead of a candle or a monogrammed cake server, think of experiences to offer guests. A coupon for free
drinks at a nearby brewery, a tour of a local attraction while guests are in town or a group excursion for guests
attending a destination wedding can be fun and will help guests create lasting memories.
CHARITABLE DONATIONS
Some couples feel that favors are wasteful and would rather set aside a portion of their wedding budgets toward giving back. In such situations, a donation to charity in guests’ names can be the way to go. Guests can vote on two favorite charities advertised on a special table at the wedding reception. The one with the most votes will get the proceeds.
LATE-NIGHT SNACKS
After a night of celebrating,
some guests may want the festivities to continue, but may need some extra sustenance to make it through a few more hours. Some couples are eschewing traditional favors in lieu of making room for extra food or beverage expenses that can include after-party treats. These may run the gamut from woodfired pizzas to food truck
vendors to extra desserts. A tasty take-home option also may be given, such as fresh zeppolis or beignets, or even a personalized bottle of wine. Even if the food and drink is not consumed right away, there’s a good chance it will hit the spot when guests return to their hotel rooms. Wedding favors are changing to keep up with the times and keep guests feeling extra special.
Cheryl’s Alterations & More Bridal & For mal Wear Specialist Wedding Gown Cleaning & Preser vation
CHERYL LANPHIERD
989-832-2705 • 989-615-8093 cherylsalterations@hotmail.com By Appointment Only
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5 ways
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eddings have a tendency to be expensive endeavors. According to The Knot’s 2018 Real Weddings Study, the national average cost of a wedding is $33,931. Nearly half of that ($15,439) is spent on the reception venue alone. As expensive as wedding receptions can be, couples should know that there are many ways to reduce reception costs without sacrificing fun. 1. CHOOSE FOODS WISELY
Pour over the details of catering costs. The Knot says the average price for catering will be $68 per person. If you opt for an appetizers and cocktails reception, you may be able to shave several dollars off the bill. Look closely at the pricing for buffet versus plated meals. Buffet service often means having a greater quantity of food on hand, which could drive up the cost. Find out if the catering hall can work with your budget to provide cost-conscious options, like familiar comfort foods instead of gourmet fare.
2. SERVE A CUSTOM-MADE COCKTAIL
A themed drink, such as punch or a classic spirit with a reimagined, weddingfriendly name, can be less expensive than offering full open bar service. Some
couples also opt to pay for only wine and beer rather than a full open bar that includes liquor and mixed drinks.
Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 8
to cut wedding reception costs
and guests won’t know the difference when they’re biting into a delicious, less costly dessert.
5. SKIP THE EXTRAS
Reception venues may upcharge for all the little details, such as linens in custom colors or chair covers. If you can live without these
extras, do so. Ask for a list of itemized extras so you can assess what you want to pay for and what you’d prefer to avoid. Wedding receptions are costly, but there are many ways to save money and still enjoy a memorable evening.
IMAGINE THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE
RIGHT HERE
3. BOOK A WEEKNIGHT
Weekend weddings are easier on guests’ schedules, but not on couples’ budgets. Couples can save thousands of dollars by hosting weeknight weddings instead of weekend affairs. Book the venue from Monday through Friday, as even Sunday prices have escalated. The further away from the weekend, the lower the prices tend to be.
BEAUTIFUL | UNIQUE | CLASSIC
4. FAKE THE CAKE
The Knot indicates a wedding cake runs roughly $530. Consider displaying a mock cake for photos and then serve a sheet cake during dessert hour. Decorating foam tiers to look like an extravagant cake can save a few hundred dollars,
Schedule an Appointment today!
Saginaw Art Museum 1126 N. Michigan Ave. Saginaw, MI 48602 www.saginawartmuseum.org (989)754-2491 The Temple Theatre 201 N. Washington Ave. Saginaw, MI 48607 www.templetheatre.com (989)754-7469
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The professionals
you need
P
lanning a wedding requires a lot of moving parts and the list of available wedding professionals is long. How do you know which one you need to enlist while staying true to your budget? These are some common experts who can take the stress of planning a wedding off your shoulders and allow yourself more time to enjoy the experience.
PLANNING SERVICE
Hiring a wedding planner is a great way to ensure all the boxes are checked before the event. You should ask yourself how much help you will need. Here are a few things to expect when working with an expert. Consultation: During the initial meeting, you should express your expectations for the wedding. They will discuss available packages and determine if they are needed for full service, day of coordination or both. Find a venue: Based on your specifications, a planner can show you different locations to become the setting of your dream day. Big day: If you hire a full-time planner, they will be a crucial component during each aspect of the wedding event. They are efficient ensuring vendors are setting up correctly and providing direction to your wedding party and guests.
The Dress of a Lifetime Bridal Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses Headwear & Veils Accessories
PHOTOGRAPHER
Of course, one professional present at nearly every wedding is a quality photographer. Through their vision and direction, images of your special day will be captured forever. Before hiring this expert, ask for referrals and examples of their previous work. You should be clear about the type of photos you want pre-wedding, during the event and those after the vows.
Book your appointment today for a personal style consultation and fitting!
FLORIST
To get the most out of the beautiful blooms of spring, a local florist is an efficient expert in creating centerpieces, bouquets and accents. If you’re traveling for a destination wedding, research experts in the area for the best results in a location you are not familiar with. Keep in mind, most communication will likely be done through phone calls or emails, so it’s imperative to cover your wishes with great detail.
A Bridal Shop Experience LikeNo Other
230 W Saginaw Road | Sanford, Michigan 48657 989-430-4396 | contact@threediamondsbridal.com www.threediamondsbridal.com
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Planning for
S
spring showers
pring temperatures make the season an enticing time for brides and grooms to celebrate their union.
RAIN ACCESSORIES
When there’s a chance of light showers, a simple canopy and items like umbrellas or ponchos can keep your wedding guests comfortable. If it is in your budget, try to color coordinate the accessories to your theme.
Ashley Nicole Photography
The comfortable climate affords outdoor weddings with beautiful views and an exciting atmosphere. However, spring’s wet weather can demand you to completely change the plan for your big day and it can leave your guests out in the rain if you don’t prepare. Since most weddings are planned long in advance, it’s important to have both a wet and dry weather plan in place. If you’re dedicated to hosting an outdoor event, find a venue or planner who is efficient when making quick adjustments. With details for both types of events in place, you can enjoy your special day without worry.
BACKUP TENT OR VENUE
Most spring climates in the United States will be comfortable enough for an outdoor wedding. The problem many run into is precipitation. If your chosen venue doesn’t feature a building dedicated to indoor events, ask the owners if a canopy or tent is permissible. Make sure to bring this up during your venue visits to learn their rules about bringing tents on the property; some may prefer you to work with a specific vendor. It’s important to inquire about additional fees from the venue and receive a quote from a tenting company to add to your wedding budget.
HORIZONS & Temple Theatre Weddings Personal Wedding Coordinator - Ceremony - Reception Floral - Décor - Invitations - Rehearsal Dinner
Call 989.799.4122 for information and available incentives Military & First Responder discount available
OTHER CONCERNS
Another outdoor wedding concern should be the condition of the grounds. Even if your big day isn’t spoiled by rain, previous precipitation can create muddy or slippery conditions. When viewing an outdoor venue, ensure they have a walkway of concrete or stone that leads to the altar. Wind may be another factor that can spoil your exciting event. If it is in the forecast, make sure all your decorations are secured.
201 N. Washington Ave. Saginaw, Michigan
989.754.7469
Harbour Light Photography
templetheatre.com
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Make the first da nce
even more special D
onna Summer may have sung about making the most of life with her song “Last Dance” in the 1970s, but during a wedding reception most of the focus is on the first dance of the evening when the newlyweds take to the dance floor for the first time after tying the knot. Not only does the first dance give the couple an opportunity to shine on the dance floor, but it also can help set the tone for the reception to follow. A couple’s first dance is significant. Traditionally, the first dance was performed to a slow waltz, but now the first dance is not governed by any rules. Many couples like to push boundaries or get creative with their first dances, and this can make the wedding even more memorable. In fact, some couples enroll in dance classes or enlist the help of choreographers to ensure an epic opening dance number. Social media is full of videos of innovative couples performing spot-on dance routines from classic dance movies like “Dirty Dancing” or beautifully choreographed dances to popular first dance songs such as “At Last” or “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Whether a couple wants to perform an intricate tango or simply wants to sway to the music on the first dance, here are some pointers to keep in mind.
CHOOSE A WEDDING SONG THAT HAS MEANING.
It may be fun to do a dance routine to DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean,” but remember your first dance song will forever be linked to your life as a couple. Select a song that has deep meaning to you. Read over the lyrics to make sure it’s an appropriate wedding song.
around minimally. Dancing takes practice, but with that practice even the self-professed “worst dancer” can cut an impressive rug.
WORK WITH A PROFESSIONAL. If you desire something more intricate for the first dance and you have the budget to pay for some dance lessons, go for it. An
instructor can take you through dance basics or help you choreograph a more polished piece. First dances are memorable moments at wedding receptions. Guests can’t wait to hear the song couples choose, and some couples exceed guests’ expectations with their impressive moves.
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TAME THOSE NERVES.
Practicing is a way to feel more confident in your steps, and that will help keep nerves at bay. Many couples experience a bit of stage fright. Just keep in mind that these friends and family are at the wedding to support you and not judge your dance moves.
CHOOSE AN UNCOMPLICATED ROUTINE.
If dancing is not your strong suit, select an easy song that allows you to simply sway back and forth and move
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Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 12
Providing the Soundtrack to Your Love Story Supplying Michigan Clients with the Best of •••
DJs & Emcees Mirror & Photo Booths LED Dance Floors Sparkling Fountains Up Lighting Customized Monograms & More!
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989-781-5700
Page 13 | Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020
Keep your gown
MIDLAND DAILY NEWS
wedding white
M
any brides walk down the aisle in white gowns, which have long been considered the most traditional choice. Wearing white can be a frightening prospect to some brides, who fear that white clearly shows every blemish or stain. Protecting a white dress so it looks pristine on one’s wedding day takes a little effort, but such efforts are well worth it.
BEFORE THE WEDDING
When trying on the gown, be sure that your hands are clean and you are not wearing any makeup. You may want to wear a thin pair of gloves so any oils from your hands are not transferred to the gown. If anyone helps you in and out of the gown, ensure their hands also are clean. Try on the gown sparingly before the wedding, ideally only for fittings. When you are not trying it on, store it in a protective garment bag until it needs to be steamed just prior to the wedding. Some seamstresses or tailors will hold onto the gown until the
final alterations are done and then steam out any wrinkles prior to delivery.
WEDDING DAY
On the day of the wedding, resist the urge to handle the gown early in the day. The gown should be the last thing you put on during wedding day preparations. Wait until just before departing for the service to get fully dressed in your gown. Again, make sure your hands and the hands of any helpers are clean. Ask for help so that the gown can be placed gingerly over your head, avoiding any makeup in the process. Some brides may find it helpful to leave lipstick application for the very last step in getting ready. Should an accident occur, bright lipstick on the white gown can be especially difficult to conceal.
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This way, should a minor stain occur, it can be treated right away. Use sparingly because you will not know just how the cleaning product will react with the gown’s fabric, and overuse may make the stain worse. If possible, test the product on a small swatch of gown fabric prior to use.
AFTER THE WEDDING
Use caution when removing the gown and then promptly repackage it into its garment bag. After the wedding, take the gown to a professional dry cleaner to have it cleaned and preserved. Then the gown can be used by future generations or simply saved as a keepsake. White gowns are traditional wedding fixtures. Bridesto-be can keep their gowns looking beautiful throughout and after the wedding.
Pack an emergency stainfighting kit to bring along to the ceremony and reception.
Did you know? T
hough the idea that white wedding dresses symbolize virginity and purity is often cited as the reason behind wedding dresses being white, a 2014 exhibit at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London indicated that white wedding dresses were a symbol of wealth and had little, if anything, to do with virginity. The exhibit, titled “Wedding Dresses 1775-2014,” noted that, during the 18th and 19th centuries, white wedding dresses indicated a family could afford to buy a dress the bride would wear only once. During that time, white dresses were especially difficult to clean and that made it impractical for any but the wealthy to purchase dresses that would likely never be worn a second time. England’s Queen Victoria, who married Albert of Saxe-Coburg in 1840, is widely credited with popularizing the white wedding dress. White dresses remain a traditional and popular choice today, though many brides opt for various shades of white if not an entirely different color.
Quality at an affordable price. Don’t get caught in the rain, ask about our indoor venue. The Grand Banquet and Conference Center is a family owned facility offering a variety of beautiful banquet halls, ballrooms, and an exquisite outdoor venue, to host your wedding ceremony or reception. We offer a total of three-room options seating up to 550 guests. Our outdoor venue is surrounded by exquisite gardens, waterfalls and a patio area. We offer full-service dinner and dessert, on-site alcohol, linens and decor, and a variety of dance floor options. The Grand is a unique venue for your wedding ceremony, reception, and other events, and is staffed with a team ready to give you the event you are looking for!
660 W Hampton Rd Essexville, MI 48732 (989)893-9303 | www.thegrandbanquet.com
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Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 14
Build a registry to relish R
egistries are a wedding tradition, not unlike a couple’s first dance or the best man/maid of honor toast. But as practical as wedding registries are, many couples approach their registries with a degree of hesitation, fearful that they might appear presumptuous or simply uncertain about what to include on their lists.
encourage guests to donate to a favorite charity in lieu of making a donation.
The following tips can help engaged couples build a registry to relish and utilize for years to come.
A wedding registry provides a practical way for wellmeaning wedding guests to show their love for brides- and groomstobe.
ESTABLISH AN ONLINE REGISTRY.
Whereas guests once had to visit a couple’s favorite retailer(s) and ask what remained on their registry, online registries now allow well-meaning family members and friends to peruse potential gifts from the comforts of home and ship gifts directly to the couple. Online registries even indicate which items have already been purchased, saving couples the trouble of returning duplicates while reassuring buyers that their gifts are fulfilling a need or want.
SHARE YOUR REGISTRY INFORMATION ON YOUR WEDDING WEBSITE AND STATIONERY.
Guests need to know where you are registered, so share that information on your wedding website and include it on your save-the-date cards and invitations.
their registries. Some couples might feel it’s inappropriate, but it can actually prove practical. Many stores offer couples steep discounts on items they listed on their registries that ultimately were not purchased. If you have your eye on an especially expensive item, include it on your list without worrying about how it may look to your guests, as they will understand when you explain the post-wedding discount you’re eligible for.
DON’T LIMIT YOUR REGISTRY TO EXPENSIVE ITEMS. While it’s perfectly acceptable to include expensive items on your registry, remember that variety is the spice of life when adding items to your registry. Include items at a range of price points for guests working with various budgets. Don’t hesitate to include low-cost items, as some guests may enjoy building a wedding gift basket with various affordable items from your registry.
REMEMBER THAT NO GIFT IS TOO OBSCURE. Thanks to the Internet, just
REGISTER WITH about any item can now be MULTIPLE RETAILERS. tracked down by ambitious
By registering with more than one retailer, couples can give their guests more options to choose from. Try to include one brick-andmortar store, ideally one with a national presence, so guests who prefer to shop in-person won’t be forced to buy online.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO LIST EXPENSIVE ITEMS.
While few guests will break the bank to buy wedding gifts, that does not mean couples should avoid including expensive items on
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gift givers. If you want to include items that might not be available at run-ofthe-mill retailers, choose an online retailer such as Amazon to host one of your registries. Such sites are great places to find specialty items or more obscure offerings that might be out of stock at more traditional retailers.
ENCOURAGE DONATIONS. If you are truly hesitant to ask for gifts or you’re tying the knot later in life and already have everything you need,
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Provide guests with
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added comfort at your wedding Couples can treat wedding guests special by increasing their level of comfort throughout the day. mention it on the program. Guests will appreciate knowing what to expect and when to expect it.
W
eddings are special days in couples’ lives. No wedding would be complete without the witnesses, including the happy friends and family members who are anxious to celebrate the special day.
While weddings are largely about the couple tying the knot, it’s important the couples do not overlook the comfort of all of the wellwishers at the ceremony and reception. Every effort should be made to ensure guests are comfortable and feel welcomed at the event.
PLAN FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER.
The weather is unpredictable, so establish a backup plan should the weather not cooperate on your big day. Outdoor weddings in warm, sunny locations can get hot quickly, so make sure there is shade available. Ask ushers to hand out sunscreen so guests don’t burn in the sun. If there’s a chance for rain, have umbrellas or a tent available to keep guests dry.
CHOOSE A VENUE THAT CAN SUPPORT YOUR GUEST LIST.
Guest comfort can be compromised if everyone is packed into a reception room that is much too small. Everyone should be able to sit and move around freely. This notion also applies to the dance floor. Be certain guests
can dance comfortably and have a good time.
VERIFY BASIC NEEDS CAN BE MET.
When selecting venues or ceremony sites, investigate whether guests will have an easy time getting to and from the room. Are paths easily accessible for those with mobility issues? Are restrooms located close enough to seating areas so elderly guests won’t have to walk far to use the bathroom? Put yourself in your guests’ shoes and figure out solutions to any potential obstacles that might affect your guests.
OFFER WELCOME DRINKS AND SNACKS.
A cocktail hour might be on the horizon, but guests may arrive with an appetite. Make a few light refreshments available, such as crackers, chips, pretzels, and some soft drinks. Ice-cold water or lemonade can make an outdoor ceremony more comfortable in the heat. Conversely, hot chocolate or coffee warms up a body in chilly weather.
CONSIDER ICEBREAKER GAMES.
PROVIDE OTHER CREATURE COMFORTS.
Little games can help guests who have never met get to know one another. Games also may help pass the time until the reception begins.
PROVIDE A PROGRAM OF EVENTS.
Clue guests into what will happen and when. This way they can adjust their schedules around the wedding. If photos of the bridal party will take place immediately following the ceremony,
Stock extra toiletries in the restrooms, and consider making inexpensive sandals available for guests with sore dancing feet. Weddings may focus on the couple tying the knot, but guests play a key role in the festivities as well. Keeping them happy and comfortable is a benefit to all.
Midland County Clerk Cl Midland County Ann Manary 220 W Ellsworth St., Midland 220 W. Ellsworth St., Midland
Phone: 989-832-6739 (989) 832-6739 Phone:
Don’t Don’t forgetforget to see to your see county c your county clerk License for: Marriage
Marriage License Name Change For Social S Name Change For Social Security Passports • Birth Certific Passports • Birth Certificates Check outtownship your township Check out your hall for hall for rehearsals & receptions showers, rehearsals & receptions.
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Bridal - Spring/Summer - February 8, 2020 | Page 16
BEGIN by saying your vows at Riverview Square, our beautifully landscaped waterside patio and ceremony site. CELEBRATE, stress-free, with a party inside our spectacular ballroom. Our experienced staff will focus on every detail, while you and your guests enjoy the celebration. RELAX, as Doubletree Hotel’s caring approach to hospitality makes your out-of-town guests feel at home. Enjoy our indoor pool, full-service restaurant, lounge and pation. REMEMBER DoubleTree by Hilton for your shower, rehearsal dinner and overnight accommodations. DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™
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