Sparkling Moments Bridal Show

#S J E ƀ 4I P X 7ZR

7K R X V D Q G

6 L [ W H H Q

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Moments

Page 3

Welc ome to the Spar k lin g Mom en ts Br idal Show!

B

For the Bridal Show 2016

By JESS LOOMAN

rides-to-be from all parts of the Tri-State Area have been waiting almost a year for one of the regionʼs premiere bridal shows.

That wait ends Jan. 24 when the 2016 Sparkling Moments Bridal Show is held at St. Florian Hall.

The sixth-annual event, which will be he held from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., will include a champagne luncheon, vendors, door prizes, a fashion show and taste testing. Brides will be admitted into the event free of charge and will be given goody bags, lunch and door prizes. Admission for guests will be $10.

The grand prize for this yearʼs event is a honeymoon trip to Cocoa Beach, Fla., courtesy of Todd Piergallini. The HeraldStar and The Weirton Daily

Times also will provide airfare up to $500 for the trip to Florida.

Another lucky bride will win an overnight bachelorette party at Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

The Holiday Inn Weirton also will offer a surprise gift.

Piergallini explained that the house in Cocoa Beach is just “steps from the beach.”

“Walt Disney World (Orlando) is only an hourʼs drive, and other activities include fishing, boating, visiting the Kennedy Space Center and a number of restaurants and shopping areas,” he added. “The house also is only 20 minutes from Cape Canaveral.”

The trip will include six nights at Cocoa Beach and one night at a Disney World Resort hotel, making it a seven-night package, Piergallini explained.

“Weʼre excited about this yearʼs show,” said Brandi Bowers, director of special projects

and digital sales at the newspapers. “In just six years, the annual event has become one of the top bridal shows in the TriState Area. Our list of vendors is impressive — youʼll find everything you will need for your wed-

ding in one spot.”

The event is sponsored by the Herald-Star and Daily Times, as well as organizations and businesses such as Piergallini See SHOW Page 28

Á

%HI RU H <RX 7RVV

<RXU

%RXTXHW

7RVV <RXU

)HDU

RI

W KH 6FDO H /RVH

XS W R D SRXQG D GD\ ZL W K D PHGL FDO O \ VXSHU YL VHG ZHL JKW O RVV SU RJU DP I U RP 9DO O H\ 2SW L PDO

2KL R +HDO W KFDU H &DO O

7RGD\

ZZZ RYRSW L PDO KHDO W K FRP

Services to Include:

• DJ/Complete Reception Coordination • Custom Programmed Uplighting • Under Table Lighting • Floor Lighting • Dance Floor Texturing • Motion Monograms/Monograms

• TV’s & Projection Screens • Special “Video” Messages • Live Video Broadcasts • Music Videos • Ceremony Setups & Sound

* Set up a Non-Obligational Consultation to Discuss How I Can Make Your Vision a Reality!*

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Moments

Page 5

He l pf ul h int s wh e n p lan n ing fl or al ar ran ge me n ts

W

hen planning their weddings, couples may find themselves becoming experts on subjects they previously never gave much thought. Thanks to the cost of weddings, todayʼs couples must make each decision carefully, and that may result in hours of research and discussion.

One of the big decisions couples must make when planning their weddings concerns their floral arrangements. The right floral arrangements wonʼt break the bank but will add substantial aesthetic appeal to ceremonies and receptions. It can be difficult for couples to achieve that balance of cost and look on their own, so the following are a few helpful hints for couples when choosing their wedding day floral arrangements.

• Work with a florist you trust and like. All florists are not the same, so finding one you can trust and will enjoy working with can make all the difference. Many cou-

ples have little or no experience with floral arrangements prior to planning their weddings, so it can calm couplesʼ nerves to work with someone they trust in such situations. Florists with significant wedding experience will no doubt make a host of recommendations based on couplesʼ budgets and preferences, so couples might be more inclined to listen to that advice if they are working with someone they trust. Ask relatives, friends or coworkers if they can

recommend any florists whose wedding work they are familiar with.

• Choose in-season or native flowers. Couples working with tight budgets may want to choose inseason flowers or those native to the area where they will be tying the knot. In-season and native flowers wonʼt need to be ordered or shipped in from afar, which can be costly. In-season and native flowers tend to be more abundant as well, and the greater their availability the less couples are likely to pay for them.

• Repurpose floral arrangements. Another way to save on floral arrangements is to repurpose flowers throughout the day. Once bridesmaids no longer need their bouquets, use them to decorate gift tables or cocktail areas. Floral arrangements on display during the ceremony can be removed once you have both said “I do” and moved into the reception area

STAY ROMANTIC

*120 Renovated Non Smoking Guest Rooms *The Area’s Only Holiday Inn Branded Hotel *Weirton’s Only Full Service Property *5,000 Square Feet of Meeting and Event Space *Undo’s Italian Restaurant and “The Sports Bar” Located On Site *Discounted Group Rates *Visit HolidayInn.com/WeirtonWV For Additional Information

350 Three Springs Drive Weirton, WV 26062 304-723-5522

where they can be enjoyed through the night. Go over any repurposing you plan to do with your reception hall manager prior to your wedding day so he knows where and when to move the arrangements.

• Go big. Some flowers simply bloom larger than others, and choosing such flowers may help you save money since you wonʼt need to buy as many flowers as you would if you were to go with smaller blooms. Once you find a florist to work with, discuss your options with regard to doing more with less. Many florists embrace the challenge to be creative within a budget, so you might just be surprised and impressed by what they come up with.

Floral arrangements can set the mood for a wedding ceremony and reception, and even couples with little or no experience choosing arrangements can end up with stunning displays.

Sparkling

Page 6

Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

W eddi ng rin gs are s y mb oli c ge s ture s of commi t me nt

C

ouples adhere to many traditions on their wedding days, including the exchange of wedding rings. Wedding rings symbolize the union of two people and their pledge to remain faithful to each other.

No one is exactly sure just when the tradition of exchanging wedding rings originated, but some say it can be traced back to ancient Egypt, when the oldest recorded exchange of wedding rings was made. Reeds growing along the Nile were twisted and braided into rings and given during betrothal ceremonies. The round ring symbolized eternity, and the hole within the center meant a gateway to things unknown. Since reeds were not very durable, soon ivory, leather and bone were used to create wedding rings.

As new lands were explored and territories expanded, traditions from one culture were adopted and modified by other cultures. The same is true with wedding rings.

According to the Diamond Source, wedding rings were adopted by Romans and incorporated into Western wedding ceremonies. Romansʼ rings were highly decorated, and some historians believe wedding rings were given to represent ownership over brides instead of symbolizing love. These rings were made of iron and called “Anulus Pronubus,” or “betrothal ring.”

Rings have been simplified since those days and ultimately

made of many materials. Throughout history, wedding rings were worn on various fingers and even both hands, whereas many married people in Western cultures now wear their wedding rings on the left hand and on the fourth finger. Romans once believed that this finger contained a vein, called the “Vena Amoris,” that ran directly to the heart. Though that is not true, the tradition has prevailed.

Other legends say that, when blessing a Christian marriage, priests would bind the marriage by saying, “In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” simultaneously touching the ring to the recipientʼs thumb, index finger and middle finger, before slipping it on the fourth finger while saying, “Amen.”

Another theory on ring placement is that wedding rings are worn on the ring finger because that finger isnʼt used as much as the rest of the hand, ensuring deli-

cate ring materials wonʼt be damaged.

Ross Simmons Jewelry states that gold is still the most popular metal choice for wedding rings, but couples are opting for some other metals that are more durable. Platinum is popular not only because it is long-wearing, but it also tends to be the most expensive. Itʼs also a dense metal and can feel heavy in hand. Tungsten carbide is another durable metal that has grown in popularity in recent years. These rings cannot be cut and resoldered, which means itʼs important to size the rings correctly the first time. Titanium is both lightweight and durable, and itʼs popular because it is hypo-allergenic, making it practical for those with allergies to other metals.

Wedding rings continue to serve as symbols of a coupleʼs vows and union. Much like the marriage itself, they are designed to last the test of time.

Shop Owner: Peg Otto

Phone: 740-733-8529 • 740-632-9032

Email: maggieo1974@gmail.com Shop Address: 2167 County Highway 15 Rayland, Ohio 43943

Located two miles from Smithfield, OH and just 25 minutes from the Steubenville & Wheeling areas.

Call or email with inquiries!

Like us on Facebook

Sparkling

Jan. 21, 2016

Veils c omplete bridal look

T

he perfect dress is on the wish list of many a brideto-be, but no bridal ensemble is truly complete until the bride chooses her veil.

Veils have been worn by brides at their weddings for centuries.

Veils can be traced back to the Middle East, where veils helped protect against the weather while also preserving the modesty of the bride. In Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, veils were used as protection against evil spirits.

According to popular wedding website The Knot.com, until Vatican II, all Catholic women were required to have their heads covered in church, including during their wedding ceremonies. Veils were worn for this purpose, but they also symbolized trust in the groom and his love and companionship. Some Christians also see the veil as a visual representation of submission to the Church and to God. Others think of the veil as

another beautiful accompaniment to their bridal gown, without attaching any additional meaning to the veil itself.

Veils come in various lengths and can complement the style of a wedding gown. They also tend to add glamour to bridesʼ looks.

Here are the types of veils from shortest to longest.

• Blusher: Blushers cover the face, though some extend only to mid-cheek on the bride.

• Flyaway: Flyaways cover just the back of the head. Shorter veils may work better on petite women.

• Shoulder: Shoulder veils are about 20 inches in length and will hit at the brideʼs shoulders or just below.

• Waist: Waist-length veils cascade down to the middle of the brideʼs waist.

• Fingertip: These veils extend down 38 to 42 inches, brushing against the brideʼs fingertips.

Moments

• Waltz/Knee: For a dramatic look, many brides may opt for waltz-length veils, which fall to the back of the knees.

• Chapel/Floor: Veils that extend to the floor may be referred to as “chapel” or “floor-length” veils. Such veils cascade slightly

Page 7

behind the bride.

Veils can complete bridesʼ wedding day looks. Shorter veils may be comfortable to wear throughout the day and evening, but brides may want to consider detachable veils if they are selecting lengthier options.

Heavenly Coach Limos Up to 22 Passenger Limo’s and SUV’s Reasonable rates and special packages.

Call for reservations and pricing

740-457-8086

Make your special occasion a heavenly one!!!

306 Main Street

Wintersville, Ohio

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling Moments

Page 9

J une is a popular month

H

istorically, June has been the most popular month for getting married. But some numbers now indicate that July and even October have begun to edge out June as the most popular months to tie the knot.

The June wedding tradition may be traced back to the ancient Romans. Romans honored Juno, the goddess of marriage and childbirth, and the month of June was named after her, so it is fitting that weddings take place in her namesake month.

As centuries passed, June remained a popular month to get married. June was a prime time for people to come out after a long winter and take communal baths in the fifteenth century.

In addition, June weddings meant children conceived after betrothal would be born close to or during the following spring. This helped assure youngsters始 survival during the rough and often lean months of winter.

Spring births would not conflict with workers始 demanding schedules during the autumn harvest, either. Even when weddings began shifting from pragmatic business transactions to romantic affairs, June remained popular.

(304) 479-0884

WEDDING FILMS BY ANNIE

Stop by our booth for a great offer!

2016 dates are going quickly!

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Moments

Page 11

Ins pira tio n b oa rds b ring w edding pl ans t o li fe

M

aking the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help.

Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity.

Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common

denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning.

While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise. Plus, theyĘźre portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding.

Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important doc-

uments. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board.

To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you. As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks.

Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials. Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources. Anything you come across in your daily life â&#x20AC;&#x201D; such as windowshopping at a furniture store or

Look for our brand new hotel opening Fall of 2016!

Ideas

passing an art exhibit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; may inspire some creativity.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings.

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling Moments

Page 13

Pets can pla y a fu n rol e

P

ets play important roles in their ownersʼ lives and are increasingly included in more activities, such as vacations, dining out and even weddings. The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters says more couples are customizing their wedding celebrations and bridal parties to include pets.

Dogs and cats are turning up in wedding photos as well as trips down the aisle. Some pets even serve as ring bearers. Before giving your pet a job for the wedding, consider his personality and temperament.

How does the pet react around crowds? A dog or cat accustomed to a quiet home may behave differently when placed in a room full of excited people.

In addition, confirm that pets are allowed inside your ceremony space.

Certain venues may not allow animals that are not service dogs. Make sure to inform guests that an animal will be present, so those with allergies can take precautions. If it isnʼt practical to have animals in the ceremony, give them a primary spot in wedding or engagement photos.

imousine

L

OUR DRIVE IS YOUR DESTINATION

417 Cadiz Road • Wintersville, OH 43953

Phone: 740.266.2433

www. gglimocar.com

Page 14

Sparkling

Moments

Ge t support to tam e we ddi ng day n er ves

W

hen couples tie the knot, many changes are in store, many compromises will be made and many lasting memories will be created. But in the weeks and months before their big days, couples can easily get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, never taking inventory of their feelings until their wedding days have arrived.

Come their wedding days, couples should not be surprised if some nerves set in. A survey from the anxiety self-help resource The Fear Source indicated 71 percent of brides-to-be suffered from some type of nerves during the lead-up to their weddings. Ninety-two percent of brides experienced nerves on the day of the wedding or the evening before, while 66 percent reported that it affected their daily lives prior to their weddings or hampered their performance and enjoyment during the day itself.

According to Psych Central, a modern online voice for mental

health information, emotional support and advocacy, pre-wedding jitters are common and can be the subconscious telling a person that something needs to be remedied.

Wedding nerves do not mean a wedding is doomed; it just means certain issues may need to be worked through. The following are some ways to tame wedding day nerves.

• Keep an open dialogue.

Speak with your future spouse about the things that may be causing your anxiety. Maybe you have doubts on financial choices or where you will be living after the wedding. Communicating openly and honestly is one of the foundations of a strong relationship.

• Slow down and breathe. Wedding planning involves making many decisions, and sometimes couples move at breakneck speeds. Make slowing down a priority. Try to enjoy a quiet dinner with just the two of you. When en-

joying peaceful moments, take deep breaths, which can be calming and revitalizing. If need be, consider signing up for a yoga or tai chi class to force you to slow down.

• Address performance anxiety.

Itʼs easy to build up the big day in your mind and hope that everything goes according to plan. But itʼs impossible to plan for each and every outcome on your wedding day. Focus on everything that can go right, rather than worrying about what might go wrong. Also, realize that your guests are your friends and family members who will be forgiving of any hiccups along the way. Youʼre bound to recover gracefully from any mishaps.

• Work on confidence. Wedding fears may stem from inadequate self-confidence. Give yourself a pep talk and surround yourself with positive people. Keep the worry-warts at armsʼ length for the

Jan. 21, 2016

time being.

• Recruit more help. Weddings are huge undertakings, so itʼs no surprise that couples sometimes feel overwhelmed. Ask reliable relatives or friends to double-check all of the last-minute details. This way you donʼt feel it is all on your shoulders.

Wedding days nerves are to be expected and often have little to do with the decision to get married. Planning such a big event can be nerve-wracking, but there are ways to combat any anxiety that builds up as the big day draws near.

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Moments

Page 15

Responsibilities of bridal party m embers run deep

B

eing asked to join a bridal party is both an honor and a responsibility. When asked to take on such significant and meaningful roles, men and women may recognize the honor but be unsure of what their responsibilities are as couples move forward with their wedding plans.

Bridal party roles can vary depending on certain circumstances, but many couples still want their bridesmaids and groomsmen to perform many of the more traditional tasks associated with their roles. The following are some of the tasks bridesmaids and groomsmen can expect to perform in the months leading up to the wedding and during the wedding itself.

• Maid of Honor: The maid of honor serves as the bride-to-beʼs right-hand woman as she plans her wedding and gets ready on her big day. Maids of honor typically go gown shopping with the

bride and may even choose or offer suggestions about the color and style of the bridesmaidsʼ dresses. Once a dress style and color has been chosen, the maid of honor will make sure everyone is fitted on time.

A maid of honor will also plan the bridal shower, sending invitations and arranging for lodging for out-of-town guests if necessary. Many brides want the details of their bridal showers to be a surprise, and maids of honor should honor those sentiments when possible. A maid of honor also plans the bachelorette party, though many brides do not mind being involved in the planning of such parties.

The maid of honor may be asked to help address save-thedate cards and envelopes as well.

Come the day of the wedding, the maid of honor will ensure the brideʼs day is as stress-free as

possible, helping to address any last-minute issues that may arise.

Maids of honor may be asked to serve as the legal witness to the wedding and sign the wedding license before the reception. At the reception, the maid of honor will toast the bride.

• Best man: The best man is the maid of honorʼs counterpart,

helping to plan the bachelor party and toasting the groom at the reception. The best man also tends to hold the rings during the wedding ceremony, and during the day of the wedding, he will coordinate the groomsmen to make sure everyone is ready to go on See MEMBERS Page 24

Á

Page 16

Sparkling Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

Bridal shower history

T

he modern bridal shower may trace its origins the 1890s.

“The Old Farmerʼs Almanac” says the first bridal shower hostess filled a paper parasol with small presents and turned it over the head of the bride-to-be.

Soon the concept caught on, and many other women began “showering” future brides in such a manner. Naturally, as presents became larger and heavier, the tradition of literally showering the bride with gifts was modified — but the name has stuck.

Bridal showers are designed to equip couples with many of the necessities to start their new life together. This custom is believed to have evolved from an old dowry system, in which a bride was expected to bring valuables to the marriage.

The dowry was originally intended as compensation for the burden of supporting a wife placed on the groom. Some parents of the bride were not rich enough to afford an ample dowry, so friends and family members would offer small gifts to help offset this financial responsibility.

Today, both the bride and groom are equal partners in the marriage, bringing together their collective wealth. However, showers are still held regardless of the financial need of the bride as a way to offer good wishes before she embarks on her new journey.

Page 18

Sparkling Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

Ce llp h one pl ann ing grow s

M

ore couples are utilizing their smartphones when planning their weddings, according to the The Knot 2014 Real Weddings Study.

The study, which surveyed nearly 16,000 brides and grooms married in 2014, found that the use of smartphones to access weddingplanning websites nearly doubled from 2011 to 2014.

In 2011, just 33 percent of couples surveyed acknowledged accessing wedding-planning websites via their smartphones. But that figure rose to 61 percent in 2014.

Sixty-one percent of brides admitted to researching gowns on their smartphones, marking a substantial increase from 2011, when 27 percent acknowledged using their mobile devices to research gowns.

Wedding vendors also can benefit from strong mobile sites, as 57 percent (up from 22 percent in 2011) of survey respondents in 2014 admitted to researching prospective vendors on their mobile devices.

Let Us Plan Your Unique Celebration...

We organize & provide events of all types!

•Graduations • Weddings • Birthdays •Company & Holiday Parties • Much More

The Countryside

91 Twp Rd. 262 Bloomingdale, OH 43952

740-543-3978

2 GREAT LOCATIONS

website: ohcatering.com

The Mingo Knights of Columbus Hall 117 Legion Dr. Mingo Junction, OH 43938

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Weddin g goo d l uck char ms

C

ouplesʼ wedding days are special moments, ones they hope pave the way to a life filled with happiness and good fortune.

Thatʼs why the bride and groom surround themselves with close friends and family who want to celebrate and support their new life joined together.

Perhaps due to superstition or tradition, many couples employ some wedding day strategies to increase their good luck. The following are some of the symbols that couples may want to keep an eye out for on the day they walk down the aisle.

• Itʼs good luck for the bride to see a dove on the way to the wedding because doves symbolize peace and prosperity. Because doves mate for life, this symbol is doubly beneficial on a coupleʼs wedding day, as it can be a harbinger of a long, happy marriage and home.

• Some brides believe sugar cubes tucked into their wedding

gloves leads to a sweet union.

• Hindu tradition states that rain on a wedding day is good luck.

Rain is believed to be a symbol of fortune and abundance, especially after times of drought. Whatʼs more, rain can foretell a strong marriage. Thatʼs because a wet knot is more difficult to untie.

• Ancient Romans were so concerned with ensuring good luck that they actually studied pig entrails to determine the luckiest time to marry. If they consulted with the English, they might determine that a wedding shouldnʼt take place on a Saturday, which is unlucky. English tradition states Wednesday is the best day to get married.

• In Holland, well-wishers would plant pine trees outside of newlywedsʼ homes as a symbol of fertility and luck.

• Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the way to their weddings. This is another symbol of good luck.

Moments

• Some couples plan to marry during a full moon, because that can symbolize good luck and good fortune.

• On a coupleʼs wedding day, tears from a bride or a child during the ceremony is considered lucky.

English folklore suggests that brides who discover spiders in their gowns are in for some good luck.

• The Chinese believe that light-

Page 19

ing fireworks at their wedding ceremonies chases away evil spirits.

A red umbrella also might be held over a Chinese bride to keep bad spirits at bay.

• Many grooms do not see their brides in their wedding gowns before their wedding ceremonies, feeling it is bad luck if they do.

Many brides also do not wear their complete wedding outfits prior to their big day.

Page 20

Sparkling Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

Popula r fir st dan ce son gs

F

or those couples who need a little musical inspiration, turn to many of the modern hits youʼre bound to hear on the radio which may help you to shine in that first dance.

• “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri: “Twi-hard” fans enjoyed this romantic song during the pivotal wedding scene between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen in the popular “Twilight” movie “Breaking Dawn.” Couples looking to recreate the magic of these star-crossed lovers can embrace Perriʼs delicate tone and tender lyrics.

• “All of Me” by John Legend: Itʼs been hard to escape this popular love song by R&B artist John Legend. An ode Legend wrote to his wife, this song has quickly become a popular choice for a coupleʼs first dance.

• “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles: This peppy song by singer/songwriter Sara Bareilles is a good choice for couples who prefer being nontraditional. Itʼs faster paced and less sentimental than many other wedding songs.

• “Better Together” by Jack Johnson: Johnson is known primarily for his soft rock and acoustic guitar work blended with catchy lyrics. Also an accomplished surfer, Johnsonʼs work is enjoyed by many but may be especially prized by couples who want to their reception to be a laid back affair full of fun and whimsy.

• “I Wonʼt Give Up” by Jason Mraz: Another acoustic ditty, this song has a country influence and talks about not giving up and staying in a relationship for the long haul.

• “I Donʼt Dance” by Lee Brice: Speaking of country influences, couples who want a little twang in their first dances can choose Briceʼs breakthrough hit. Romantic lyrics about spinning his partner around in circles despite not liking to dance illustrates what one partner will do for the other when in love.

Couples can make that first moment on the dance floor a special experience by choosing modern classics for their first dances.

Safe, Effective, Hands on Care

Rehabilitation for Neck and Lower Back Injuries AUTO ACCIDENTS & WHIPLASH ON-THE-JOBINJURIES SPORTS INJURIES

Dr. Gregory M. McDonnell, D.C.

Most Insurance Plans Cover Chiropractic Workers’ Compensation • Medicare • Etc.

* Disc Injury * Headaches

* Neck, Shoulder & Arm Pain * Pain Between Shoulders * Numbness in Hands or Arms * Lower Back & Leg Pain

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS FOR NEW PATIENTS WALK-INS WELCOMED

740-314-5812

2315 Sunset Blvd., Suite E, Steubenville, Ohio 43952

Sparkling

Page 22

R ehe ars a l di nner h ow -t o

M

any couples find their wedding rehearsal dinners to be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of wedding planning.

Such dinners enable the happy couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a relatively casual gathering with their closest friends and family members.

Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the night or two before the wedding. The couple, members of their wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom and others involved in the wedding typically attend this dinner. The couple generally takes the time at the dinner to thank everyone for their contributions to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of appreciation.

No rules govern rehearsal dinners, so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners as they see fit.

Rehearsal dinners often come immediately after the ceremony rehearsal, when the wedding party and the officiant go over the timing and details of the wedding. Make arrangements with the ceremony

site and officiant prior to making dinner reservations.

Parents of the groom traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in planning the event. That means couples should keep an open and gracious mind.

Remember, the rehearsal dinner doesn始t have to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to any budget or preference.

Some couples feel that hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can make the dinner more comfortable for members of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another before the wedding. This will help to tame nerves and enable the wedding party to loosen up and enjoy themselves even more. Some people may be more inclined to socialize and have fun when they始re not worried about putting on airs.

Restaurants that have special meaning to the couple often make

Moments

for great places to hold rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can suggest their ideas, but ultimately it is the person handling the bill who has the final say. Couples who want greater control over the rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting it themselves.

Despite its name, the rehearsal dinner doesn始t actually have to be a dinner, as couples can opt for meals at a different time of the day, like brunch or lunch. An earlier occasion gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest up for the festivities of the wedding to come.

Jan. 21, 2016

Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner, but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks.

A couple with a good sense of humor might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom should expect to say a few words of thanks to all in attendance, but remarks need not be too formal.

Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for couples and their families to spend time together before the larger festivities of the wedding pull them in multiple directions. Plus, they set a fun tone for the wedding weekend to come.

Parissi Productions Videography & DJ Service For Weddings, Parties, Anniversaries & More!!

Email For Price Rates

parissiproductions@gmail.com

Bayberry House Bed and Breakfast 741 & 813 North Fourth Street Historic District Steubenville, Ohio

Garrett House

Westfall House

Live history at Bayberry House, perfect for a romantic escape or out of town guests. Nine beautiful guest rooms in two restored Victorian Homes. Rates and reservations are available online.

740-632-2899 www.bayberryhousebedandbreakfast.com

Page 24

Sparkling Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

Members time. The best man may arrange transportation for the groom and groomsmen on the day of the wedding and may also return the groom and groomsmenʼs attire the following day if the newlyweds are departing on their honeymoons.

• Bridesmaids/Groomsmen: The bridesmaids and groomsmen serve similar functions, acting as sources of support as couples plan their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen help to plan the bachelorette and bachelor parties and may also be asked their opinions as couples make decisions regarding their weddings.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen must be prepared to take pictures once couples have officially tied the knot. They also must help the brides and grooms with any issues that may arise in the hours before couples become husband and wife.

• Flower girl/Ring bearer: Flower girls and ring bearers are

Continued from Page 15 often young relatives of the couple, whether they are a young brother or sister or a niece or nephew. The responsibilities of the flower girl and ring bearer are typically limited to the ceremony, during which they will walk down the aisle, either together or individually, before the father of the bride escorts his daughter to the altar or stage.

• Father of the bride: The father of the bride walks his daughter down the aisle during the ceremony, and, along with his wife, may pay for the wedding, though many couples now finance their own nuptials. The father of the bride will dance with his daughter during the reception, and some fathers may even share a special toast for the newlyweds during the reception, though such a toast is not traditionally required.

Bridal parties play a big role on couplesʼ wedding days, and those roles are both an honor and a responsibility.

We offer the latest haircut and hair coloring techniques, waxing, eyebrow threading, perms, special occasion Up-do’s, and Temptu airbrush makeup!

Bridal packages available!

A beautiful You for a special “I do!”

NOW OFFERING Pedicures and Shellac Manicures!!!

Call for an appointment and Walk-Ins Are Always Welcome!

Page 26

Sparkling

Moments

Tips for toas t ing t h e b ride an d groom

W

edding toasts are a tradition that many guests and wedding participants look forward to. An opportunity for maids of honor and best men to express their feelings about the bride and groom, wedding toasts often touch on the heartfelt and the humorous while shedding light on the relationship between the happy couple and the men and women they have chosen to play such significant roles at their wedding.

While guests might enjoy wedding toasts, best men and maids of honor may be nervous about honoring the brides and grooms in such public settings. That anxiety is perfectly normal, especially for those who have never before been asked to serve as maid of honor or best man. Those tasked with toasting the newly anointed husband and wife can consider the following tips to make the task a little easier.

• Keep it brief. While there might be many things you want to

say, try to express yourself as concisely as possible. Convey your relationship with the bride and/or groom, but avoid lengthy histories that might come off as rambling. While personal anecdotes that shed some humorous light on your relationship are great additions to wedding toasts, avoid going into too much detail when telling such stories, focusing instead on the parts of the stories that illustrate your feelings and generate a few laughs.

• Avoid being too formal. Even the most formal wedding can benefit from a toast that veers more toward the spontaneous. While you want to thank the parents of the bride and groom for hosting the wedding and the guests for being on hand to celebrate, donʼt feel as though you need to be especially formal. Giving a less formal speech also may help calm your nerves.

• Practice, practice, practice.

Practice your speech ahead of

time so you are not reading from cards or notepads during the toast. Reading from a piece of paper is less likely to engage the audience than if you are speaking to them directly and sharing some heartfelt thoughts about the bride and groom. Itʼs alright to hold onto some cue cards to keep you on track as you deliver your toast, but practicing your toast as the wedding draws near will boost your confidence and make you more comfortable once you have the microphone in hand.

• Stay appropriate. Humor adds a lot to wedding toasts, but make sure to clean up any humorous anecdotes so they can be shared with all wedding guests, including kids. In addition, avoid stories that, while humorous, may end up embarrassing the bride and groom.

• Share well wishes. Before you raise your glass and ask guests to do the same, express some heartfelt well wishes for the bride and groom. Doing so is a fitting end to

Jan. 21, 2016

a tradition thatʼs meant to highlight the special relationship brides and grooms have with their maids of honor and best men.

Maids of honor and best men making their first wedding toasts may be nervous in advance of the big day, but there are ways to calm those nerves and deliver heartfelt, memorable toasts that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling Moments

Page 27

K now w hen to cut the ca ke

T

he timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities.

Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude.

Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home.

This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely.

Page 28

Sparkling Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

Show Catering, Sorelle Bridal Salon, Fabian Formals of Hollywood, Phil-Mor Tuxedo Outlet and DJ Jonathan Mihellis.

A fashion show will begin at 2 p.m. and feature gowns from Fabian Formals and Sorelle Bridal Salon. Phil-Mor Tuxedo will display tuxes as well.

“We encourage all brides to come see the best show in the valley and look forward to seeing everyone there,” said Diane Lash of Fabian Formals.

The vendor list currently includes: Clear Choice Photo Booth; Fairfield Inn and Suites Marriott; Simply Sweet Cakes; Silverwind Photography; Legal Hair and Day Spa; Holiday Inn Weirton; Mama Gʼs Catering; Steubenville Integrated Medicine; Parissi Productions; Best Western Plus University Inn; R.E. Saxon Jewelers; Jimʼs Dee Jay Service; McDonnell Chiropractic; James Carl Photography (formerly Wright Image Photog-

Continued from Page 3 raphy); Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack and Resort; Ohio Catering and Mingo Knights of Columbus Hall; Snap Shop Photo Booth; Full Circle Wedding Shop; JK Photography; Off Center Production; Kayleebug Alterations and Bella Lux Photography; G&G Limousine; Trinity P3 Sports Performance; Premier Designs Jewelry — Anna Moore; Anniesweddings.com; Envy Salon; Katie Lynn Photography; Maggie Oʼs Jewelry; Ohio Valley Optimal Healthcare; Heavenly Coach Limousine; Pure Romance — Jessica Kelley and Diana Scott; Origami Owl — Beth Huey and Karen Grubb; Images Mammography Center; and Weddings by Constance and Event Team.

Thank you for joining us!

Jan. 21, 2016

Sparkling

Moments

Page 29

Re memb e r that t hank-you car ds are st il l i mp ortant

W

eddings and gifts go hand-in-hand. Couples who are tying the knot can expect to receive scores of gifts, ranging from simple wellwishes to cash to items listed on their registries. Because gift-giving is tradition, couples should plan on spending some time writing thankyou notes to express gratitude to the people who were kind enough to give a gift.

Contrary to popular belief, couples do not have a year始s grace period to mail out thank-you notes after the gift has been received or the wedding has taken place. According to the etiquette experts at The Emily Post Institute, all thank-you cards should be written and mailed within three months of receipt of a gift. It is preferable that the thank-you be written directly after receipt of the gift, but time-strapped couples may not have the opportunity to do so. However, writing a few

thank-you cards every few days can alleviate having a giant pile to do later on.

Many couples prefer to order thank-you stationery when they order their wedding invitations.

This way the paper, font and style match the original invitations. In addition, it may be less expensive to order stationery as a package.

In some cases, a photography package may include thank-you notes with wallet-sized photos to include. Couples can then mail out a nice sentiment with a photo from the wedding. To keep with the etiquette time frame of thankyou notes, it is important to find out when the thank-you photos and cards will arrive first from the photographer. The thank-you sentiments should not be delayed by the photographer.

For those interested in less expensive options, preprinted thank-you cards can be pur-

chased at a stationery store.

There are many designs and price points available. Remember, it is not the card itself, but the thank-you that is important.

As to the rules regarding those getting a thank-you, it is just about anyone who contributed in some part to the wedding, even if a verbal thanks was already offered. Anyone who provided an engagement, shower or wedding gift, those who gave gifts of money, anyone who hosted a party or shower, attendants in the wedding, people who may have housed wedding guests, parents of the bride and groom, suppliers and vendors, and employers who have wished couples well should all be included on the thank-you list.

Here are some other guidelines to follow. * Mail out a handwritten note to each and every person being thanked.

* Do not use form letters or preprinted cards to which you simply add your signature. * Be sincere in your messages and try to mention the gift and what it will be used for. * Promptly respond to gifts that were received through the mail so the giver knows they arrived. * Never mention that you plan to return a gift or exchange it. * Mentioning the amount of a monetary gift is optional, but it does confirm to the giver that the right amount was received. * A mass thank-you posted on social media is not adequate. * Even if you are late with writing out thank-you notes, that doesn始t exclude you from doing so.

By adhering to thank-you card etiquette, couples will ensure their guests know that gifts and efforts to make the wedding special were appreciated.

Page 30

Sparkling

Moments

Jan. 21, 2016

C ust om iz e y our cerem ony t o gi ve i t a uni q ue t ouch

S

teeped in tradition, weddings have featured many of the same components for centuries. Those about to tie the knot may feel somewhat limited in their ability to shape their weddings into unique celebrations of their relationships and love for one another. Although it may not seem like there are many opportunities to put your own stamp on the wedding, there are plenty of ways to do just that.

When looking to personalize your wedding ceremony, determine if there might be anything blocking you from doing so. For example, if yours will be a religious ceremony, there may be certain rites that need to be followed. Secular ceremonies may offer more opportunities to customize.

• Vows: Vows are one of the easiest ways to put a personal touch on your wedding. You can select the words you want to ex-

change during the ceremony as well as any readings during the service. Work with your officiant to narrow down particular phrasing or sentiments that fit with your vision of the wedding and relationship.

• Participants: Wedding party members fulfill certain roles during the ceremony, but they are not limited to those tasks alone.

Consider asking wedding party members or other friends or family members to take on specialized roles in the wedding. They may be able to do certain readings, escort guests to their seats, light candles, or sing and participate in other ways.

• Musical interludes: Choose music that connects with your personalities as a couple rather

than selecting standard songs merely because they are the easier route. Work with the organist or other musicians and request that they perform or play musical pieces that you enjoy.

• Candle lighting: Many couples like to incorporate candlelighting components to their ceremonies. Lighting unity candles blends two families together into one in a symbolic way. Other couples choose different traditions, such as mixing two different-colored sands in a new vessel, to represent the joining of two lives together. You can consider these types of additions for your wedding ceremony or come up with your own unique tradition.

Impart a special touch to a wedding ceremony in any number of ways. Doing so will help set this special day apart in the minds of guests and make it even more memorable to look back on as a couple.

Stop in to see our wide selection of:

Alfred Angelo Disney Alfred Angelo Bridesmaids Bill Levkoff Bridesmaids Christina Wu Bridal Christina Wu Occasions Cameron Blake Montage Tuxedos Social Occasions Mothers of the Bride Prom Jewelry and much more!