2011 Idaho Wedding Guide by Idaho Wedding Guide

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Contents

Inside 63 Entertainment & DJ’s 64 Wedding Trends for 2011 71 Event Decorations & Rental 74 Wedding Planning 101 76 Floral 83 Health & Beauty 88 Honeymoon, Hotel & Travel 92 Pefecting Your Wedding Day 97 Finance & First Home 99 Jewelry 101 Choosing The Perfect Ring 113 Photography 117 Choosing a Photographer 119 Transportation 120 Videography 122 Index

PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

3 Welcome~Idaho Wedding Guide 5 Planning Your Event 8 Traditions 11 Checklists 15 Weather 16 Budget 20 Announcements/Invitations 23 The New “Thank You Cards” 25 Bridal Attire & Formal Wear 28 Getting Married in The Temple? 32 Cakes, Candy & Catering 34 2011 Hottest Colors 36 Sugar Arts Show 2010 Winners 37 IWG Bridal Festivals 40 Catering 47 Ceremony & Reception Sites 50 Personalizing Your Ceremony 62 Tower of Love

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Idaho Wedding Guide

Welcome!

Hi! Welcome to the Idaho Wedding Guide. Congratulations on your recent engagement! First, we want to share with you that planning a wedding should be both enjoyable and exciting. There is no need to panic if you follow the guidelines in the Idaho Wedding Guide. The Idaho Wedding Guide is full of useful information to help you make informed decisions regarding your wedding plans. Our agency does countless hours of research on the latest trends and holds discussions with local vendors to assist newly engaged couples. The information we gather is put into this valuable publication and distributed for free in eastern Idaho. However, that’s not all. The Idaho Wedding Guide has formed partnerships with numerous agencies to provide a platform where you can get even more information and a chance to win thousands of dollars in prizes. How do we do this? The Idaho Wedding 2011 Cover Guide sponsors, promotes and produces in collaboration with Events4Idaho.com more Bridal Festivals (three) in southeastern Idaho than any other business and remember admission is always free. We picked locations in different communities in eastern Idaho and have scheduled these events in Idaho Falls, Pocatello and Twin Falls. Additionally, the Idaho Wedding Guide has been a sponsor of the Sugar Art Show (a showcase of the finest cake decorators) at the Eastern Idaho State Fair for the past three years and continues to support local businesses not national wedding vendors! Moreover, we have teamed up with wedding vendors and local media groups to give away weekly prizes. Winners will be selected in a random order with help from friends like Sand Hill Radio and other sponsors. Let’s face it, the economy is still a significant concern in the communities in Idaho and weddings are still expensive. Other magazines and promoters of other bridal events don’t even come close to giving away the amount of prizes and giveaways that the Idaho Wedding Guide continuously does year after year. The Idaho Wedding Guide has a strong belief in giving something back to couples who read the Idaho Wedding Guide and are in the process of planning their wedding. In the past five years, the Idaho Wedding Guide has given well over $75,000 in cash and prizes to couples in southeastern Idaho - far exceeding any prizes given by other media or local publications. We have given away three $10,000 weddings, over 50 honeymoon suites from local hotels, a Dodge Durango, a trip to Hawaii, an Alaskan cruise, wedding rings, wedding cakes, over $7000 in Bridal Bucks, cash and much more. In 2011, we will be giving away prizes a few different ways: during our three Bridal Festivals that you should attend and by weekly giveaways with prizes such as hotel rooms, limousine rides, bridal bouquets, a cruise, wedding cakes, $3000 in Bridal Bucks and more to come. The Idaho Wedding Guide (#1 local wedding publication) and IdahoWeddingGuide.com are

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Idaho Wedding Guide considered to be the best resources in southeastern Idaho to plan your wedding. Why? It’s simple – more brides read the Idaho Wedding Guide than any other local wedding publication and also register to win prizes at IdahoWeddingGuide.com. The Idaho Wedding Guide has been in publication for ten years and continues to be the local industry leader. Our objective remains simple….the Idaho Wedding Guide will help you plan a successful wedding and offer opportunities to win one of our many giveaways. There are no gimmicks, just use the Idaho Wedding Guide to help plan your wedding and support the vendors that advertise with our publication. Have you visited IdahoWeddingGuide.com? Stop reading right now and register at IdahoWeddingGuide.com and check out information about upcoming bridal festivals, giveaways and be sure to look at the numerous wedding vendors and find more information about their businesses. The Idaho Wedding Guide wants to assist you in finding experienced vendors in the wedding industry through our publication and events. Numerous wedding vendors have links to our webite www.IdahoWeddingGuide.com so you can go to one place and find caterers, photographers, wedding planners, party rentals and decorators, bridal shops, DJ’s, videographers, hotels, travel agents, cake decorators, health and beauty services and various specialty companies. We want to alleviate the stress of planning a wedding by giving you the resources you need to plan and then have the perfect wedding. How do we do this? The Idaho Wedding Guide has all the information you need to succeed including: a convenient wedding planner, budget sheet, checklists, weather guide, up-to-date articles and most importantly advertisements for professional wedding vendors that will help you with your wedding. Do you need help with wedding planning beyond our wedding publication and website? We guarantee to save you $100 after you hire our agency or we will give you a free bridal bouquet! Call us for assistance with wedding planning, advertising information or additional questions at (208) 403-4705 or email greg@idahoweddingguide.com. Best wishes, Greg and Janet Huff, Idaho Wedding Guide

2011 Edition - Idaho Wedding Guide c Publisher Shindig Enterprises Editor Greg Huff Assistant Editors Janet Huff, DMANDESIGNS Advertising Manager Greg Huff Advertising Information 208.403.4705 or 208.528.0100 greg@idahoweddingguide.com

cCopyright 2011 Shindig Enterprises All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Although every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, Idaho Wedding Guide can not guarantee all information is correct. Check all information including prices, times and all other details before making your wedding plans. Win Prizes at www.IdahoWeddingGuide.com

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Planning Your Event

Planning

You’ve probably dreamed of this day since you were a young girl. Whether those dreams are elegant, yet simple, or very extravagant, you can make them come true with any budget. Begin by having your specific style in mind. Cut out pictures and keep fabric samples for colors and ideas that you like. Take them to all the wedding professionals you visit; as it is easier for them to help you reach your specific goals if they have an actual photo rather than a vision in your mind. This way you are more likely to get exactly the service or product you are looking for!

The First Step Before sending out invitations or announcements, you need an idea of when and where your wedding will take place. If you are having a religious ceremony, make sure to meet with your clergy to find out the details of when and where they prefer ceremonies to occur. For example, most religions do not perform wedding ceremonies on their Sabbath. Make sure to find out what is and is not acceptable. If the wedding will take place in a church hall, that will need to be scheduled in advance. If you choose a reception center, make sure to visit a few of them and decide which fits your budget and style.

Telling the World Once you have told both families and have scheduled a date and place, you are ready to announce your wedding! A formal announcement can be placed in a local newspaper where you and your fiance live as well as the location of where both sets of parents live. A phone call to a newspaper can help answer any questions. Most newspapers have a form that you can fill out to make it easy for you to have your announcement published. Idaho State Journal.......................................Pocatello.................(208) 232-4161 The Morning News........................................Blackfoot.................(208) 785-1100 Post Register..................................................Idaho Falls..............(208) 522-1800 The Jefferson Star..........................................Rigby.......................(208) 745-8701 The Shelley Pioneer........................................Shelley....................(208) 357-7661 Rexburg Standard Journal............................Rexburg...................(208) 356-5441 Fremont County Herald Chronicle...............St. Anthony............(208) 624-4455 Times News....................................................Twin Falls...............(208) 733-0941 Jackson Hole News........................................Jackson, WY...........(307) 733-2047

important considerations Even though the wedding is typically the “bride’s day,” make sure to be sensitive to your fiance’s wishes. He may have opinions or desires on certain things. Also, there are two families typically involved, both of whom may have differing opinions on things. Although it is your day, you will all be related when the day is over, so be sure to be respectful of all included. Having your family involved can be not only very helpful, but also one of the most memorable parts of your day! You may want to make a list of jobs that family members can take over, and then have them look it over.

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Planning Your Event BRIDAL SHOWER Have some fun! It is one of the perks of being a bride. Most bridal showers are given from two months to two weeks before the wedding. Bridal showers are typically given by the maid of honor, but they may be given by any close friend of the bride. Whoever hosts the party generally pays for it. Often there is a theme for the shower which may be from a picnic, to a spa day, to a formal dinner. No matter which way you choose, make sure to keep a list of the gifts and who they are from so that the bride can easily send thank you notes.

Rehearsal Dinner This is usually held the night before the wedding. The wedding party and the couple meet at the ceremony location and go through the wedding process with the officiant. Afterwards, the dinner is held to celebrate the upcoming wedding. The guests are typically the couple, immediate family and members of the wedding party. Close friends or relatives may be invited, with approval from the hosts. The groom’s parents usually pay for and host the rehearsal dinner. Keep in mind there is no set rule, so at times the couple or both sets of parents may pay for it. The dinner does not have to match your wedding style, so you can keep it casual even if your wedding will be very formal, or vice versa. Toasting is a typical activity at rehearsal dinners. This is a great time to give thank you gifts to your wedding party and/or family members if you choose to do so. Some couples opt to just give a toast to thank everyone involved. Whichever you choose, make sure it is personalized.

wedding luncheon/Breakfast/Brunch A wedding luncheon is held after the ceremony (breakfast before, brunch between) with close friends and family. It provides an opportunity for two merging families to associate and celebrate with one another. This may be more formal, reception-style and catered, at a restaurant, or as casual as sandwiches and lemonade in your backyard. Divide invited guests as equally as possible between each of the families, to avoid tension. This is typically hosted and paid for by groom’s parents or groom. Gifts to the wedding party from the new couple are presented at this time, as well as gifts to each other.

STATE OF IDAHO MARRIAGE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Both the bride and groom must appear together at the county clerk office. One valid I.D. (drivers license, passport, original birth certificate, military I.D. or state I.D. card) and Social Security card must be presented. You do not have to get married in the county you obtain the license from, but you must get married in Idaho. There is no expiration or waiting period. Call for current fees. Minors (between 16 and 17) may apply with parental consent; call the county clerk office for further requirements. If you are getting married in another state, you must get a marriage license from that state. Information needed for the application: w Social Security numbers w Full names (including bride’s maiden name) w Date and place of birth of both applicants

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Planning Your Event w Permanent Addresses w For second (or additional) marriage - date of divorce being final. If less than six (6) months, you must show documents proving the divorce is final.

county clerk office locations Bannock County - 624 E. Center, Pocatello, ID - (208) 236-7340 Bingham County - 501 N. Maple, Blackfoot, ID - (208) 782-3163 Bonneville County - 605 N. Capital, Idaho Falls, ID - (208) 529-1350 Jefferson County - 219 E. Fremont Ave., Rigby, ID - (208) 745-7756 Madison County - 134 E. Main, Rexburg, ID - (208) 359-6200 Fremont County - 151 W. 1 N., St. Anthony, ID - (208) 624-7332 Twin Falls County - 425 Shoshone Street N, Twin Falls, ID - (208) 736-4004 Jackson Hole, WY - 150 E. Pearl Ave., Jackson, WY - (307) 733-3932

changing your name After the big day, you can officially change your name. Take the certified copy of your marriage certificate and driver’s license to the Social Security and driver’s license office and fill out the needed forms. A new Social Security card is free; there is a fee to update your drivers license payable by check or cash.

SOCIAL security offices Pocatello - 1246 Yellowstone, Pocatello, ID - (208) 637-2534 Idaho Falls - 825 Shoup Ave., Idaho Falls, ID - (208) 522-7992 Twin Falls - 1437 Fillmore St., Twin Falls, ID - (208) 733-6932 (Information and forms also available at www.ssa.gov)

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PHOTO BY E & N PHOTOGRAPHY

With your new last name on a new Social Security card and driver’s license, changing your name everywhere else will be a lot easier. Start by visiting your bank, change name and address on accounts, credit cards and loans; order new checks. Other places to remember are the post office, insurance companies, voter and auto registration, cell phone carriers, wills and employers. Change your name on utility bills, magazine subscriptions and other memberships as they come in the mail.

Traditions

As you think about your wedding, reflect upon these traditions simply as fun curiosities and determine what is right for you.

wedding ring The circular wedding band symbolizes eternity – a sign that life, happiness, and especially love have no beginning and no end. Because it was believed that the “vein of love” (vena amours) ran directly from the third finger of the left hand to the heart, the wedding ring is placed on that finger.

Wedding Cake The Romans would break a thin layer of cake over the bride’s head to PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY ensure a life of plenty. The crumbs were then gathered and shared with the guests. Today, the bride and groom feed each other cake to represent the sharing of their body to become one.

Throwing Rice Rice, thrown over married couples, was thought to bestow fertility on the bride and groom. In recent years, flower petals, confetti, bubbles and bird seed have become creative substitutes. Some believe the number of rice grains caught in the bride’s dress is the number of children the couple will have.

Something Old, New Borrowed and Blue Many of us have heard of the ditty, “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” This popular tradition for what the bride is to wear descends to us from Victorian times. “Something Old” would probable represent the connection a bride has with her past life. “Something New” most likely is related to the new life she will be celebrating with her husband and his family. A bride wears “Something Borrowed” is usually given from a happily married woman, which will bring success to her own new marriage. “Something Blue” likely is a symbol which represents the bride’s longing for faithfulness and success within her new union and the color blue represents fidelity and modesty.

A White Wedding Dress The first known example of a white wedding dress comes to us in 1499, when Anne of Brittany wore white for her ceremony to Louis XII King of France. Up till that time, women simply wore their nicest dress. This tradition also has roots coming from Bible times, because the “Church” was described as wearing in a white dress as a symbol of its purity as the “Bride of Christ.” Christian women often hold that a bride must not wear a white dress if she is beginning a second marriage or if she is not pure. This is a curious superstition

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Traditions because the “purity” of the church is actually supposed to come from Christ. In the Orient, brides have traditionally worn white. In early Roman times, white symbolized a celebration filled with merriment. Certainly, it is today a symbol of happy bliss and a new beginning from other cultures.

Wedding Veils for the Bride The wedding veil wasn’t originally white as is the custom for most of today’s nuptials. In early Greece the color was yellow. In ancient Rome the dress would often be red. Much of the meaning has been lost but having a veil remains quite popular. Apparently, the veil was another symbol for a bride’s modesty, and of course her virginity. Many people believe today that according to history, it is bad luck for the bride to be seen by her husband-to-be before the ceremony. Remember that in history there were so many arranged unions, it was often likely that the groom would not see his bride until the moment of the ceremony. In some traditions, the veil hid the bride until the groom lifted it to see what his new wife looked like. Follow whatever traditions sound right to you, not because of any fear about causing good or bad luck. More importantly, establish your own traditions, creating the meanings you desire them to achieve, which you can then pass down to your descendants.

Traditional Marriage

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Officiator: Marriages can be performed by Bishops, Rabbis, Ministers or Priests of any religious denomination, County Clerks, Mayors, Justices of the Peace, Judges, or Magistrates of the United States. Details: Bride’s family seated on left side; Groom’s on right side (looking from back.) Right before ceremony, groom’s mom is seated. Immediately after, bride’s mom is seated. Brothers of the bride and groom (or ushers) seat their mothers, signaling the beginning of the ceremony. Procession Order: 1. Officiator and Groom wait at altar 2. Groomsmen (from the side or accompany the bridesmaids) 3. Bridesmaids (start with the one standing farthest from the bride) 4. Ring Bearer (boy who walks down the processional with rings on pillow) 5. Bride (on left side of the father or male member of her family) Recessional Order: Reverse processional order (men accompanying women), then parents of bride and groom, followed by the congregation. The orders and details vary within religions. Make sure to check with clergy.

LDS Temple Marriage

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Traditions Couples should schedule a ceremony room three (3) months in advance. The larger rooms fill up faster. Idaho Falls Temple rooms seat: 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50. The room seating 50 is not wheelchair accessible, so make sure to find out if any guests have problems climbing stairs. Boise Temple seats 35, and the Rexburg and Twin Falls Temple will seat 50. Phone Numbers: Boise Temple – (208) 322-4222 Idaho Falls Temple – (208) 522-7669 Rexburg Temple – (208) 656-0880 Twin Falls Temple – (208) 736-7070

Wedding Party

PHOTO BY AMBER ALDER PHOTOGRAPHY

Brides’ Attendants: Usually consist of a maid of honor, bridesmaids, and one or more flower girls. The number of bridesmaids and flower girls usually depends upon the bride’s preference. Maid of Honor: A close friend, sister or cousin of the bride. If already married, she is called the matron of honor and usually assists the bride. Bridesmaids: Other sisters, sisters-in-law or close friends of the bride. Their job is to support the bride and mingle with guests. Flower Girls: Flower girls can scatter flower petals down the aisle or simply carry small bouquets. Groom’s Attendants: Usually consist of a best man, groomsmen, ushers and a ring bearer (do not have to include all). The Best Man: A brother or close friend. You may have more than one. Duties: assist groom, carry ring, and keep track of marriage license. He is the first to make a toast. Groomsmen: Other close friends or relatives. Can act as ushers at the wedding (1 usher for every 50 guests is enough). Mingle with guests. Ring Bearer: Boy between ages of 5 and 8. Walks down processional with ring tied on pillow.

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Checklist

Bride’s

3-8 Months Before the Wedding

o Select rings and order engraving (if applicable). o Set wedding date and time; reserve location for wedding ceremony. o Select officiant for the ceremony. o Determine budget and how expenses will be shared. o Decide on the type of wedding you want, size formality and setting. o Determine your theme and color scheme. o Start gathering names and addresses for your guest list. This is probably the most time-consuming task. Be prepared and organized. Start EARLY on your list. Ask both sets of parents to do their lists by a certain date. o Save your list for sending thank you cards. o Select and order wedding gown and headpieces. Some gowns take up to 6 months to have ordered. o Choose bridesmaids’ dresses and accessories, around same time as your gown. o Select and reserve reception facility. o Select and schedule photographer. o Select caterer for wedding luncheon/rehearsal dinner (groom). o Select caterer for wedding reception; plan menu. o Have fiancé select his attendants. o Select bridal attendants. o Select and schedule decorator. o Select and schedule videographer. o Select and schedule professional florist o Select and schedule DJ/Entertainment. o Order wedding cake and groom’s cake (optional). o Register for gifts at a bridal registry in the areas of both families. o Order invitations and thank-you cards. o Reserve the wedding night bridal suite (groom). o Arrange for transportation for the wedding day. o Bridal shower gift recorder and guest list, event RSVP checklist, music planner, flower planner and more. o Go to www.IdahoWeddingGuide.com or the showroom for assistance.

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

o Reserve men’s wedding attire. Place orders 6-8 weeks in advance. o Have mothers choose and coordinate their dresses (do not have to match). o Plan wedding luncheon or rehearsal dinner such as musical numbers, speeches, slideshow, etc. (groom). o Purchase wedding favors for guests. Party supply stores have a great selection. o Purchases wedding accessories (garter, guest book and pen, ring-bearer pillow, toasting goblets, etc.) o Plan honeymoon, make travel arrangements (groom). o Have engagement photographs taken.

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Checklist o Address invitations and announcements. o Schedule to have your hair and makeup done the day of your wedding. Visit makeup specialist and hairstylist. o Have your physical / premarital exam. o Update or obtain a passport. o Design a map to direct guests to the ceremony and reception sites (insert with invitations). o Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests. o Experiment and determine hairstyle, makeup and jewelry. o Get Marriage License. o Get forms to change your name on your driver’s license, bank accounts, insurance, etc. o Request time off from work. o Start looking for your new home or apartment. o Finalize honeymoon plans. o Finalize ceremony details. o Keep a record of any gifts you receive. Start writing thank-you notes as soon as you can to avoid them piling up. o Give photographer a list or samples of pictures you want. o Finalize all details with the wedding professionals you have chosen. o Deposits should be paid, contracts signed. Double check all details to make sure they’re correct.

One Month Before the Wedding

o Mail out invitations. o Obtain Marriage License if you haven’t already. o Announce your engagement in the newspaper. o Have bridal portrait taken. o Select gifts for the wedding party participants. o Call and confirm with your baker the actual number of guests (for the cake). o Arrange for people to help at the reception. o Plan for parking and traffic at reception. o Purchase wedding gifts for each other (optional). o Purchase going-away outfit (optional). o Send change of address information to the post office. o Give the musician or DJ the list of music for the ceremony and/or reception. o Select someone to help you dress and do any touch-ups the day of your wedding. o Begin whitening your teeth if you plan to do so. o Visit the dentist. o Have your hair cut and colored.

2-3 Weeks before the Wedding

o Double-check all reservations. Inform them of any changes made. o Notify catering service of final head count. o Plan bouquet preservation. o Move your belongings to your new home or apartment. o Pick up all wedding attire and make sure it fits.

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Checklist One Week Before the Wedding

On the Wedding Day

o Eat breakfast, even if it is just something small. o Have checks ready for necessary fees. o Don’t forget rings, marriage license, necessary forms, and all of your bridal attire and accessories. o Pack an emergency kit, including: safety pins, bobby pins, tape, breath mints, hair products, makeup, lotion, Band-Aids, aspirin, spare contact lenses, a needle and thread, phone numbers of bridal professionals, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, a snack, clear fingernail polish for nylons, extra nylons, tissues, anti-cling spray, nail file and/or glue, personal hygiene items and extra pair of dress socks for groom. o Fix hair or go to appointment at least 3-4 hours prior to ceremony. o Start dressing 1 to 1 ½ hours prior to ceremony. o If photographs will be taken before ceremony, have yourself and the wedding party ready two (2) hours in advance. o Have the music start 30 minutes prior to the ceremony. o Have guest seated. The groom’s parents need to be seated 5 minutes prior to ceremony. o Make sure to have someone seat the bride’s mother right before the processional begins. o Attend the luncheon and have fun. Relax before the reception.

PHOTO BY AMBER ALDER PHOTOGRAPHY

o Groom the groom – hair cut, styled, etc. o Pack for the honeymoon! o Confirm all honeymoon reservations and accommodations. o Arrange for utilities, phone, etc for your new home. o Arrange for someone to return rental items. o Get a manicure and pedicure. o Do something fun to relax and enjoy yourself. o The night before, go to bed early (if possible). o Have a rehearsal and/or dinner with everyone involved if possible.

After the Wedding

o Maintain a gift list and send handwritten thank-you notes as soon as possible. o Thank both sets of parents for their help. o Return duplicate gifts. o Have dress cleaned and preserved. o Change your name.

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Checklist

Groom’s

3-8 Months Before the Wedding

o Start on your guest list; include full names, addresses and zip codes. This is the most time-consuming so start early. o Choose best man and groomsmen. o Plan and make arrangements for honeymoon. o Reserve the wedding night bridal suite. o Select caterer for wedding luncheon/rehearsal dinner.

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

o Finalize honeymoon plans and travel arrangements. Send deposits, etc. o Don’t procrastinate; some places fill up quickly. o Plan wedding luncheon or rehearsal dinner. o Select what men’s wedding attire you want. Get fitted and order.

One Month Before the Wedding

o Purchase wedding gift for your fiancé (optional). o Purchase gifts for your best man and groomsmen. o Offer to help your fiancé with anything she needs.

One Week Before the Wedding

o Get your hair cut. o Pack for the honeymoon. o Choose two (2) witnesses for your ceremony. o Confirm all honeymoon reservations. If flying, make sure to get your plane tickets. o Arrange for utilities, phone, etc. for your new home. o The night before, go to bed early (if possible).

On Your Wedding Day

o Eat something for breakfast. o Start dressing one (1) hour prior to ceremony. o Get to the ceremony location early. o If photography is scheduled before the ceremony, be there two (2) hours early. o Give the bride’s wedding ring to the best man. o Have the officiant’s fee ready. Give it to the best man to take care of after the ceremony. o At the reception, dance with your bride first, then with both mothers. o Thank and say goodbye to both sets of parents before leaving the reception.

After the Wedding

o Thank the bride’s parents for a beautiful wedding and reception. o Take care of your new wife!

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Weather

Eastern Idaho Weather Guide Weather is a key consideration, especially if you are planning an outdoor event or have friends and relatives traveling. Below you will find some average* temperatures, sunrise/sunset times, and odds of precipitation to help you choose the best time for your occasion.

High Temp

Low Temp

Sunrise (AM)

Sunset (PM)

Odds of Rain/Snow

January

30/31

13/14

7:59

5:23

10/31

February

36/37

18/18

7:30

6:01

8/28

March

46/47

25/25

6:41

6:39

8/31

April

58/58

32/32

6:48

8:14

8/30

May

68/67

40/40

6:08

8:49

9/31

June

77/76

46/46

5:50

9:12

7/30

July

87/86

52/52

6:06

8:48

4/31

August

86/85

50/50

6:38

8:31

5/31

September

75/74

42/41

7:11

7:40

5/30

October

61/62

32/32

7:46

6:46

6/31

November

44/44

23/23

7:54

5:06

8/30

December

32/33

15/15

7:57

4:57

9/31

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*Averages calculated from statistics from KIDK, Idaho Falls Regional Airport, Pocatello Regional Airport, BYU-Idaho and the Twin Falls Weather Service Office. Information courtesy of KIDK Eyewitness News Channel 3.

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Your Budget

Budget

Determine the amount you can spend on your wedding before you do any planning. Decide what is the most important to you. The five things you will have when the wedding is all over; 1) Your Husband 2) Your Rings 3) Your Pictures 4) Your Video 5) Your Memories You must set priorities to any wedding planning if you are really going to stay within your budget. Ask yourself what is really most important to you-the perfect dress, a big party, photos, a great honeymoon, etc. The number of guests will also largely determine how expensive your total is, so keep that in mind. Stick with a realistic budget and factor in extra money for unexpected things that may come up. It’s perfectly normal to splurge a little for your important day, but you don’t want to be in major debt starting out your new life together.

Who pays for what?

The bride and her parents pay for: w The groom’s ring (first thing’s first) w Engagement photographs and bridal portraits w Wedding stationery (Announcements, Ceremony Invitations, RSVP’s, etc) w The reception and ceremony (Reservation costs, rental fees, decorations, flowers, catering, wedding cake, entertainment and transportation) w Bridal attire and accessories w Wedding consultant w Bride’s physical exam w Bridesmaids’ luncheon (if given) w Flowers for the bridal attendants w Photographer and videographer w Lingerie w A valet, parking fees (if applicable) w Wedding gift for the groom w Gifts for bridal attendants

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PHOTO BY PHOTOGRAPHIQUE

Staying on budget

Your Budget The groom and his parents pay for: w Bride’s engagement ring and wedding band w Bride’s bouquet w Groom’s physical exam w Groom’s formal wear w Marriage license w Ceremony official’s fee (if applicable) w Wedding luncheon or rehearsal dinner w Wedding party corsages and boutonnieres w Gifts for groomsmen w Wedding gift for the bride w Honeymoon The bridesmaids and other attendants pay for their own clothing, accessories, and traveling expenses unless the bride and groom opt to pay. 1% - Car/Limo Rental 2% - Ceremony Fee 4% - Invitations 5% - Videographer 8% - Flowers 8% - Music - DJ, band, etc. 10% - Wedding Gown & Accessories 12% - Photography 17% - Wedding and/or Reception Location and Decorations 33% - Cakes & Catering (To avoid any last minute surprises - sign contracts and get receipts for every good and service needed for your wedding.) There are no set of rules on who pays for what, so make sure to talk to both sets of parents to see what they are comfortable and able to pay for. If there are additional costs, they will have to be picked up by you and your fiance.

PHOTO BY E & N PHOTOGRAPHY

Average Percentage of Budget

Bridal Festivals & Sugar Art Show Information

See other events promoted by our sister agency at Events4Idaho.com (Chocolate Fest Mud Volley Ball, Easter Idaho Health Festival) Bridal Festival on the Falls on January 14th, 2011 (4:00PM until 8:00PM) and January 15th, 2011 (10:00AM until 6:00PM) Bridal Festival at the Pine Ridge Mall on February 26th, 2011 (10:00 AM until 6:00PM) Magic Valley Spring Bridal Festival on March 25th, 2011 (4:00PM-8:00PM) and March 26th, 2011 (10:00AM to 6:00PM) Sugar Art Show at Eastern Idaho State Fair on Saturday September 3, 2011

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Expense Sheet

Budgeted Amount

Actual Amount

Deposit Paid

Balance Due

Cakes & Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Food & Beverage

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

Flowers Bride’s Bouquet $__________ Maid of Honor & Bridesmaids $__________ Flower Girls Accessories $__________ Corsages $__________ Boutonnieres $__________ Reception Centerpieces and Decorations $__________ Floral Preservation $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

Formal wear - bride wear Engagement Ring Wedding Band Wedding Gown Veil/Headpiece Alterations Shoes Jewelry & Accessories Lingerie Dry Cleaning or Gown Preservation

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

groom’s attire Wedding Band Tuxedo or Suit Shoes Accessories

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

wedding party’s attire Bridesmaid Dresses Tuxedos Shoes Accessories

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

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Expense Sheet

Budgeted Amount

Actual Amount

Deposit Paid

Balance Due

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

honeymooon & hotel Wedding Night Accommodations Travel Costs Meals Hotel/Lodging Entertainment Passport

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

photography & videography Engagement Photos Bridal Portraits Wedding Photographs Album Video Services

RECeption Location Rental Decorations Rental Items Wedding Favors Guest Book & Pen Entertainment/Music

Transportation Limousine $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ Other - Horse Carriage $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ Parking Fees $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

Wedding Announcements Invitations Programs Thank You Notes Napkins Maps Postage

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

Beauty & Health $__________ Wedding Breakfast $__________ Guest Accommodations $__________ Attendant’s Gifts $__________ Fiance’s Gift $__________

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

misc

TOTAL

$__________ $__________

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Announcements/Invitations

Announcements Your invitations are the first impression people have of your wedding day. The invitation will set the tone or theme and can be as colorful and creative as you want.

Be Prepared You must have your ceremony site, reception site and guest count before ordering invitations and accessories. Know details - middle names, parent’s preferred name format (titles vs. first names), exact spelling of names, location and time for ceremony and reception, addresses for ceremony and reception locations, name of buildings.

How many to order For your guest count, plan on the number of guests to be about 75% of the number of invitations sent out (500 invited, approximately 375 attend). So, plan on inviting more than you expect to attend. Order 25-50 extra invitations for people you may have forgotten to put on your list as well as keepsakes. Order even more envelopes (10-20) in case the person addressing them makes a mistake.

When to Order Order your invitations at least two (2) months before your wedding day. Printing them takes around two weeks, and addressing envelopes another 2-3 weeks. If time is an issue, have the envelopes delivered ahead of time so they can be addressed and ready to mail when the invitations arrive.

When to Mail Invitations should be mailed at least 3-4 weeks before the wedding. For out of town guests you should mail invitations 6-8 weeks prior to the wedding.

Ordering your invitations Your invitations specialist will be able to advise you on font size and style as well as ink color. They will also help you create what you are looking for to fit within you budget. Most companies allow you to choose color, size and font style. Some do custom announcements creating anything you can dream up.

Postage Size doesn’t matter; the only thing that will increase your postage are weight or square-shaped invitations.

Invitation Wording There is no “right” way to word your announcements. Any professional will help you customize your wording to your liking and circumstances. Double check EVERYTHING before printing. It is your responsibility if it’s wrong and you will have to pay to re-order new invitations.

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Announcements/Invitations Ceremony Invitations

Figure on inviting more guests than you want at the ceremony (not all will attend). For temple weddings, the biggest room in Idaho Falls seats 50, so you might invite about 75 to get a full room. Also, consider ordering extra ceremony cards for out-of-town or elderly guests that may not be able to attend, but would be honored to get an invitation.

Response (RSVP) Cards If you are catering your reception or have special seating arrangements, make sure to send these with your invitations to get a more exact head count. If you are having a sit down event, there will be a big difference in price for your count being three guests off. RSVP cards are the most accurate way to get a count and will be worth it in the end.

Addressing the invitations Use black ink. Never abbreviate names or addresses, only titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc) Examples: Married couple: Mr. and Mrs. Bryce Blackwell; Married couple with different last name: Mrs./Ms. Kenedee Miller and Mr. Cade Smith; Couple with children: Mr. and Mrs. Max Wolf and family. (All followed by address below it.) If you choose to have the traditional inner envelopes, the invitation and all enclosures are placed inside the inner envelope. The inner envelope is placed unsealed inside the outer envelope with the flap away from the person inserting it. You can choose to address the inner envelopes (no titles, just first and last names) or leave them blank.

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The New “Thank You Cards” The wedding’s over. Presents are opened. Now you face the task of writing the thank you notes. Of course, you are grateful for what you received and for the support from your friends and family. Make it simple and easy by sending out your pre-designed cards ready to stamp and mail. The new trend in thank you cards is the 4x6 thank-you postcard. The sky is the limit for the design. Find the perfect pre-designed card or have a professional graphic designer create a custom one for you. Three reasons to use a 4x6 thank you card. 1. Creative, customizable options to personalize your thank you postcards • Choose your favorite picture from your wedding and have the designer use it for the front of the postcard. This allows you to share the memories of your wedding day with your friends and family. • Have the return address professionally pre-printed on the postcard. 2. Save money on postage. The cost of a postcard stamp is only 28 cents; 13 cents cheaper than a 41 cent stamp. It may not seem like a lot, but if you send out 200 thank you cards, that’s $26.00 that stays in your pocket. 3. Smaller space for writing the thank you message. The back of the postcard is divided into two halves. The right half is used for the return address, stamp, and receiver’s address. The left side is reserved for the thank you message. It is a smaller, but adequate space. You could easily fill the space with a sentence or two and you’re done! Let’s review. Thank you postcards are not your ordinary thank-you card. They are easy, convenient, and allow for creativity and personalization. Tania Finn My Idaho Invitations

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Bridal Attire & Formal Wear

Attire The Perfect Dress

For your wedding gown, look through bridal magazines to get an idea of what you like. Take along a few pictures of your favorite styles, so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t waste time on styles you know you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want. Do, however, try on at least three gowns. You may be surprised how a gown, not very appealing on a hanger, looks great when you try it on.

Be Prepared When you shop for your wedding gown, wear your hair and makeup close to how you will wear it on your wedding day. Bring your wedding shoes or heels to try on with wedding gowns. Also, bring any specialty bras you might have to avoid buying one unnecessarily. Taking the time to prepare these details will help you get a better sense of how the gown will look.

Details Get as much information as you can before you leave the store, including cost, alteration charges, pick-up date, and return policy. Keep in mind that ordering dresses can take up to 6 months. Alterations may need to be made, usually taking from 4 to 6 weeks. Get a receipt with a guaranteed delivery date.

The Look

The longer the dress and veil, the more formal the look. Informal: street-length dress & small bouquet. Semi-formal: floor length dress, short veil and train, small bouquet. Formal: floor length gown with full veil, long (cathedral) train, large cascading bouquet.

Helpful Tips

To appear more slender: Princess, A-line styles, or a dress with a high waistline are the best styles for slimming the figure. Scoop necks can be very flattering. Stay away from lacy ruffles, clingy fabrics, and puffed sleeves. To appear taller: Try a dress with a high neckline and/or an empire waist. A shirtwaist, natural waist style with bouffant skirt will also make you look taller. To de-emphasize your bust line: A V-neck or scoop neck is usually the most flattering. A strait skirt, A-line dress, or fitted bodice with a full skirt is also flattering. Avoid empire or cinched waists. To make wide hips look smaller: This can be disguised with a ball gown, flared skirt, or A-line dress. Emphasize your upper body and waist (instead of your hips) by selecting a gown with bodice detail, like lace or beading. Just stay away from anything too straight or narrow.

Shoes Choose comfortable shoes you can wear the whole day. Make sure to break them in ahead of time.

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Bridal Attire & Formal Wear The Garter Many brides keep the tradition and wear a garter, often choosing blue (to go along with “something blue”) but any color will do. The groom may or may not choose to toss this to unmarried men at the reception, but most happily choose to take it off.

Bridesmaid’s Dresses When choosing bridesmaid dresses, keep price in mind. Select your bridesmaid dresses around the same time as your wedding dress. Find out what colors will be available at the time of your wedding. Choose a style that will be flattering to all of your bridesmaids. Ideas: All the same dress style but different shade of wedding colors, all the same color by different styles, or let each choose which style and color from approved selections. Visualize the dresses in your reception setting. Are they too formal? Not formal enough? Remember, if the men are wearing tuxedos, the women should be in longer, more formal dresses (but not as long as the bride’s dress.) Be sure to let your bridesmaids know which shoe color to wear so they all coordinate.

Tuxedos If the men’s clothing will be rented for the event, orders should be placed 6 to 8 weeks in advance. The men should go to the store for personal fittings a week before the wedding.

Wedding Gowns-Bridesmaids-Tuxedos-Jewelery-More

Enjoy The Experience

Schedule an appointment

Idaho Falls 208.522.5859 1554 E. 17th www.hartstuxandgowns.com

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Are You Getting Married in the Temple? Here Are Some Basic Temple Dress Guidelines

The following guidelines will be helpful for planning your Temple bridal attire. Adapted from Brides Dresses for Temple Marriages, Ensign June 1997. Each dress should be white. Many things in the temple are symbolic, and white brings to mind purity, virtue, and cleanliness of body , mind, and heart. Some fabrics may look white until you put them next to a sheet of typing paper. If you are in doubt about a fabric for your dress, try the paper test or take a swatch of the fabric you plan to use to the temple for appraisal before buying or making your dress. Brides should wear dresses that are modest, with a high neckline and a long skirt. Temple workers will ask a bride to wear a dickey, or fabric insert, if her dress shows the shoulder or collar bone. Long sleeves are required. Because some current styles of gowns have short sleeves, special sleeve extensions are available at temples throughout the world. However, you may wish to add your own extensions form fabric that would look good with your dress. The temple may also provide a bolero jacket to cover any exposed arms. Sheer fabrics must be lined. Camisoles and sleeve liners may be worn under a dress that has sheer areas or see-through lace panels. Brides who wish to use their dress later for temple sessions, however must have a permanent lining put in. A train must be removable or designed in such a way that it can be fastened into a bustle during the temple ceremonies. New styles of wedding dresses with long, slim skirts have recently been brought to the temple. These often have a long slit up the side or back of the skirt, extending above the knee. Because such a style is not appropriate for temple use, workers will provide the bride with a long slip or back apron to fill the gap. A bride may wish to furnish her own modest filler instead.

We hope the following will be helpful as you prepare to go to the temple. Keep in mind that Church policies are always changing and it is highly recommended that you consult with the nearest temple that you will be married in prior to purchasing a dress. After contacting the temple, go to one of these retail dress shops to purchase your wedding dress.

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PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

Dresses should be free of elaborate ornamentation and kept in harmony with the simple and sacred nature of the temple ceremony. Also, each temple has a selection of lovely wedding dresses that a bride may use for the temple portion of the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events.

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Cakes

Cakes The wedding cake is often the focal point (besides the bride) of the reception and very much a decoration as much as a dessert. Order early–at least three (3) months in advance–especially for summer weddings. Have a guest count, as price is determined by number of slices needed. Ask about experience, delivery, and setup. Bring pictures with your favorite cake ideas, examples of your wedding colors, and an idea of your flowers. Ask to see photographs of previous cakes your baker has created.

The Groom’s Cake This is a cool trend that southeast Idaho brides seem to be enjoying. In 2009, the groom’s cake has appeared more frequently at receptions and in a variety of forms. Grooms cakes have appeared in the shape of fish, star troopers in Star Wars, tractors, tool belts, cars, golf balls, etc. Groom’s cakes could be placed artfully around the wedding cake, or on the hors d’oeuvres table. The groom’s cake can be cut whenever you want depending upon your event.

Look & Flavor Two main things with cakes - look and taste. Look–anything goes (no longer just white.) Taste–cake and filling. The most common flavors are chocolate, carrot, lemon and white cakes. The most common fillings are Bavarian creme and strawberry. You may want to consider each layer a different flavor. There are two types of frosting: butter cream and fondant. Fondant is flat and smooth, yet more expensive; doesn’t melt as easily and is better during warm weather.

Cutting the cake At the end of the reception, with the groom’s right hand over the bride’s, together they cut the first piece from the bottom layer. They break the slice and eat it together, typically feeding each other. Someone should be assigned to this job. Have them keep the top tier to freeze for your first year anniversary.

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PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

wedding Cake

Lynn Winter

Cake Designer & Sugar Art Florist

Award winning wedding and speciality cakes that are designed especially for you.

Traditional or contemporary, cakes that are not only stunning to look at but also truly delicious! Grand Champion Winner at the Eastern Idaho Sugar Art Show 2008, 2009 and 2010 First Place 2010 Chocolate Fest Professional Chocolate Cake Appeared on TLCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ULTIMATE CAKE OFF

Pantone 2011 Color the Year Pantone 2011 Color ofof the Year (Continued)

The 2011 “Color of the Year” is Honeysuckle-the color of the Idaho Wedding Guide. Yes, pink is in! Shades of pink will be popular in 2011 much like shades of purple have been popular the past few years. Retail stores are pushing a monochromatic wedding color scheme with both pink and purple. However, Honeysuckle will continue to grow in popularity. Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year. It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it.

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PHOTO BY E & N PHOTOGRAPHY

Are you color blind or having trouble with wedding colors? The Idaho Wedding Guide will assist you in choosing your wedding colors with the help of Pantone. The internet has many references regarding color trends but there is only one serious player when it comes to mastering colors. The Idaho Wedding Guide continues to reference Pantone as the leading professional company when it comes to color. In 1963, Lawrence Herbert, Pantone’s founder, created an innovative system for identifying, matching and communicating colors to solve the problems associated with producing accurate color matches in the graphic arts community. His insight that the spectrum is seen and interpreted differently by each individual led to the innovation of the PANTONE® MATCHING SYSTEM®, a book of standardized color in fan format. Today, the PANTONE Name is known worldwide as the standard language for accurate color communication, from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer, across a variety of industries. Pantone continues to develop color communication and inspirational tools, and aggressively adopts new digital technology to address the color needs of the creative community everywhere. Pantone (the leading company in the field of color) surveys the designers of New York Fashion Week to collect feedback on prominent collection colors, color inspiration and color philosophy. This information is used to create the PANTONE Fashion Color Report, which serves as a reference tool throughout the year for fashion enthusiasts, reporters and retailers.

While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life. “In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.” Eiseman continues, “The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages. In fact, this color, not the sweet fragrance of the flower blossoms for which it was named, is what attracts hummingbirds to nectar. Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer.” I spent six hours on their website prior to writing this article to learn more about color combos. All the colors below are real colors and can be referenced by going to www.pantone.com and searching colors. Choose your colors wisely by research and then letting your heart speak to you! Color Combos that Work Together Trendy- Honeysuckle and other shades of pink with colors that you decide. Serene- Midnight Navy and Honeysuckle Panache-Jet Black, Honeysuckle and Yellow Cream Peacock- Peacock Blue, Peacock Green and Buckthorn Brown Earthy-Lettuce Green and Pecan Brown Elegant- Azalea Pink and Amber Brown Rainbow-Multiple color combos of bright colors (Cyber Yellow, Purple Gumdrop, Flame Orange, Pink Lemonade or Poppy Red) Posh- Wood Violet and Copper Brown Royal- Royal Purple and Golden Glow Cheerful- Striking Purple and Blazing Yellow Flamboyant—Blue Turquoise paired with Fiery Red Chic –Pastel Turquoise and Chocolate Brown or Pastel Turquoise and Purple Violet Cool – Smoke Blue, Charcoal Gray and Winter Green Happy- Empire Yellow, High Risk Red and Bright White Classic- Rococco Red paired with Jet Black and Lily White Modern Classic- Claret Red paired with Charcoal Gray Military- Navy Blue, True Red and Star White Tropical- Spectra Yellow and Orange Popsicle and Coral Reef Vintage-Dusty Olive with Pink Champagne and Puritan Gray

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Pantone 2011 Color of the Year (Continued)

2010 Sugar Art Cake Show Awards Sponsored by the Idaho Wedding Guide and other wedding vendors

WEDDING CAKE PROFESSIONAL DIVISION

Best of Show & Grand Champion Wedding Cake Professional Division: Paula Ames

2nd Runner-Up Wedding Cake Professional Division: Amy Marsh

Grand Champion Theme Cake: Paula Ames

1st Runner-Up Wedding Cake Professional Division: Lynn Winter

Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice: Pollyanna Cook

Grand Champion Sugar Art Floral: Lynn Winter

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2011 Sugar Art Cake Show Information The Sugar Art Show is located in the Hobbies & Craft Building and the Eastern Idaho State Fair and provides decorators the opportunity to test their skills and share their talent with the public. There are categories for children, beginners, intermediates to professional divisions. Everyone is welcome to participate. Saturday is Sugar Art Day with free cake demonstrations, as well as the opportunity to take hands-on classes from our prestigious judges. We are again sponsoring the very popular Mystery Cake Challenge. Everyone is welcome to enter this competition with the three finalists competing in the mystery challenge for cash and prizes. This is similar to the competitions you see on the food networks. Themes for the following categories: Wedding Cake inspiration is: Wall Paper Theme Cake inspiration is: Hooray for Hollywood Floral Art flower is the: Clematis Plan to enter a cake or just come and spend the day with us! More information and entry forms can be downloaded from the SugarArt Show web site at www.idahosugarartshow.com, contacting the Eastern Idaho State Fair office, 208 785-2480 or by calling Lynn Winter 208-317-7769.

2011 Idaho Wedding Guide Bridal Festivals The Bridal Festival on the Falls at the Red Lion Inn in Idaho Falls  Date: Friday, January 14th from 4:00pm-8:00pm & Saturday, January 15th from 10:00am until 6:00pm Prizes: $2,000 in CASH PRIZES / DRAWINGS $1,000 in BRIDAL BUCKS Additional prizes will be added by our vendors

The Bridal Festival at the Pine Ridge Mall in Chubbock  Date: February 26th, 2011 Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Prizes: $2,000 in CASH PRIZES /DRAWINGS $1,000 in BRIDAL BUCKS Additional prizes will be added by vendors

The magic valley spring Bridal Festival

Date: Friday, March 24th from 4:00pm-8:00pm & Saturday, March 25th from 10:00am until 6:00pm Prizes: $2,000 in CASH PRIZES / DRAWINGS $1,000 in BRIDAL BUCKS Additional prizes will be added by our vendors

Produced by the Idaho Wedding Guide & Events4Idaho.com Contact: 403-4705 to be a vendor or for more information Brides can pre-register at www.IdahoWeddingGuide.com www.IdahoWeddingGuide.com

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Catering

Catering Catering Your Event

Before you call a caterer, have an idea of the time, place, number of people and an overall budget for meals. Think about the theme, degree of formality and service you desire. The caterer will help determine what is available for you in your price range. Look for experienced caterers who can provide references. This will depend on the time of your reception. For earlier ceremonies, you may choose to do a brunch or formal luncheon. For evening receptions, you may opt to do just a dessert and beverage or a full-service dinner. Pick food you like, but consider guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs (vegetarian, non-dairy, etc.) Your caterer can help plan a menu to fit your budget. Caterers prepare, cook, serve the food and then clean up afterward. They should provide table linens, plates and silverware. If outdoors, they should provide all these and equipment needed to heat or chill food. Some may provide chairs, beverages and tables. The professional caterer will help you devise a seating plan for the number of people involved. Discuss in detail with your caterer what you want and get estimates. When you decide, make it clear what time they will arrive, how they will set up, what services will be provided, how much food will be served, and the price you will be charged. It is a good idea to get this all stated clearly on a contract.

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Ceremony and Reception Sites

Location

First Things first

You need to get a possible list of dates. Meet with your clergy or officiant, or schedule your ceremony site. Once you have done this, book your ceremony and reception site immediately! Most fill up fast, and often require a lengthy booking in advance. If you are set on one particular site, you may need to consider changing your wedding date to a weekday, as they are often easier to reserve and save you money.

Options Reception sites may be full service or simply a room to rent requiring everything else. Find out if the site has a dance floor and provides linens, microphone and/or microphone hook-ups, napkins, table centerpieces, etc. Find out if the reception facility offers catering services. If they provide catering services, but you have a particular caterer in mind, find out if the facility allows other caterers to use their kitchen facilities.

Find what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for When selecting a reception site, know the number of people invited, the formality of the event, and your budget. Plan on about 75% of the people invited to attend the reception. Visit different reception sites in person before selecting one. Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve selected one, get everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings. Your site is NOT reserved until a deposit has been placed on it. w What dates and times are available? w Will someone be using the place before/after us? w Can we extend the hours if we need to? w How much time will be have to decorate before hand? w How much parking is available? w Is there an overtime charge, and if so, what is it? w How many people can be accommodated - standing/seated? w Is there a payment plan available? w Are there changing rooms available? w Is set up and/or clean up provided?

Outdoor reception Consider if there will be enough shade available. Also, be sure to have a backup site scheduled in case of inclement weather.

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Questions to ask:

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Personalizing Your Ceremony

The ceremony should be the most important aspect of your wedding. The two of you will exchange vows or rings, light a candle and of course seal the deal with a kiss. Unfortunately, sometimes this important aspect of your day is sometimes overlooked. You might think that things will just fall into place especially if you have others helping with your wedding planning or taking care of details. However, it is your responsibility to ensure that all parts of the ceremony are planned and implemented properly. It’s your day –personalize your ceremony and own it! Incorporate ideas from this article and add your own style and flair. Where do you begin? You have to decide what type of wedding you will be planning. Should it be religious, traditional, include the exchange of vows, etc. The beauty of the institution of marriage is it all begins with your ceremony. Your ceremony may include making a covenant to one another, reading a meaningful poem, dedicating a song, or even having someone close to you performing the ceremony. The great part of a “wedding ceremony” is that you have the right to be creative and personalize it. There are a few exceptions, a religious ceremony performed in a church or the temple has certain guidelines that must be followed. However, more couples are choosing to have additional things added outside of the traditional or official ceremony such as a ring exchange or ring ceremony that allows all guests to be part of the ceremony. Determining your type of wedding ceremony is one of the first decisions you and your new partner will need to make. It’s easy if you have similar religious backgrounds and desires, but if not, you need to both be comfortable with the type of wedding ceremony that fits your lifestyle. REHEARSAL Remember practice makes perfect! Please consider all great sports teams practice frequently and when the time comes to perform on the field or the court their team shines. Your wedding day is more important than a sporting event and your wedding party must take it seriously. Sure, there might be a few people that can’t make it. The flower girl and ring bearer are younger and who knows how they will perform? It’s O.K. The important point is that you need to take it seriously and have your wedding party be on time and on task. I will give you only one suggestion- prior to your rehearsal have your music picked out, determine who will walk with who during your processional and recessional and stick with your plan. Too many times this is discussed at the rehearsal and drama ensues and feelings are hurt. Avoid the headaches and come to the rehearsal organized and let your wedding coordinator or whoever is guiding your event take charge and sit back and relax. TYPES OF WEDDING CEREMONIES 1. Religious. This is the most common ceremony that is performed. It (religious wedding ceremony) is popular and chosen frequently because people feel a sense of spirituality must be included in the joining of two lives that will now become one. A religious ceremony becomes a “problem” only if you and your fiancée are of

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) different religions. Many couples who sit down together and discuss differences can usually come up with a resolution. The best thing to do is to check with your minister, priest or bishop and find out what the options are, and then discuss it. You might need to make a few compromises but still can create something truly special and unique to both of you! 2. Civil. A civil wedding ceremony is one in which a Justice of the Peace, a judge, or a mayor is hired to marry you, outside of a church. These people are appointed by the state. They will have some scripts you can choose from to say your vows. This type of ceremony can be performed in a courthouse or in someone’s backyard. Civil ceremonies can still have a spiritual component but are generally a little less informal. A civil wedding ceremony can be large and formal, or small and informal. If done properly, it can be just as elegant as a religious wedding ceremony. 3. Military. If you or your fiancée are in the military or retired, you may be entitled to a full military wedding ceremony. This ceremony often takes place in the military chapel, but can sometimes be arranged in a different venue. The military person will dress in appropriate uniform (whites in the summer or a dark uniform in the winter). Officers will sometimes carry a sword, and an “arch of swords” is sometimes formed for the new couple to walk through after they are married. Many couples choose to have a civil ceremony with the groom dressed in his military outfit and blend aspects of both a civil and military ceremony together. 4. Non-traditional. A non-traditional wedding ceremony is similar to a civil one, but may have religious overtones if you as a couple, or one of you, is a member of a non-traditional religion. Moreover, you may have an official that is recognized in the state of Idaho perform the ceremony outside of a church. You might also consider a different alternative- qualifications to perform a marriage in the state of Idaho are very lenient and some couples choose to have an uncle, close friend or even one of their own father’s can perform the ceremony. Non- traditional marriages also include bizarre acts of people getting married in the water, when skydiving or at unique locations. If you’re the type of bride to choose the aforementioned don’t expect many guests to watch you while you tie-the-knot when you scuba dive or jump out of a plane. A non-traditional wedding ceremony gives you the entitlement to do whatever your heart desires with no guidelines except your own imagination. TYPES OF VOWS Elements of many ceremonies include old traditions mixed with the modern ideas and may include vows, the exchange of rings, usage of sand, lighting of candles, presentation of flowers, poetry, music or other symbolism. There are many usages for vows during ceremonies. What type, when will they be read and how will they be performed is determined by the couple during the wedding planning process. A couple must decide if they would like to declare vows that are formal and written during the ceremony or speak from their heart when declaring their love for one another. Here is a list of vows to help you choose the kind that you might want to incorporate in your ceremony.

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) Traditional Vows Do you (groom/bride) take (bride/groom) to be your lawfully wedded wife/ husband, to have and to hold from this day forward? I do. Do you promise to love, honor, and cherish her/him for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health? I do. And, forsaking all others, will you remain only unto her/him for as long as you both shall live? I do. Semi-Traditional Vows (Groom/Bride) do you take (bride/groom), whom you now hold by the hand, to be you lawfully wedded wife? I do. Do you promise to love and cherish her/him in sickness and in health, for richer, for poorer, for better, for worse, and, forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto her/him, for so long as you both shall live? I do. Do you mutually promise, in the presence of your friends and family, that you will at all times and in all circumstances, conduct yourselves toward one another as becomes a husband and a wife? I do. Contemporary Abbreviated Vows (Groom/Bride) do you pledge to love, honor, and cherish (bride/groom), and throughout your years together be honest, faithful, and kind to her/him? Do you pledge to give her the same happiness she gives to you, to react to her as only you can, and to respect her for whom she is, not who you want her to be? Proclamation Vows With all my heart I take you to be my wife/husband. I will love you through the good and the bad, through the joy and the sorrow. I will try to be understanding, and to trust in you completely. I will make you a part of me and in turn become a part of you. Together we will face all of life’s experiences and share one another’s dreams and goals. We will be equal partners in an open and honest relationship throughout the years. Intentional Vows (Groom/Bride) it is my intention to be your best friend, to respect and support you, to be patient with you, to work together with you to achieve those things that are important to us, to accept you unconditionally, and to share life with you throughout the years. Pledged Vows (Groom/Bride) I pledge to you with all my heart and being to love and support you in all ways, to my utmost capabilities for the rest of our lives. THE RING EXCHANGE Exchanging of Rings - choose one of the following • With this ring I thee wed. • With this ring I pledge my love. • With this ring I pledge my love and commitment.

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) PRESENTING THE NEWLYWED COUPLE Presentation of the Bride & Groom By the power vested in me by the state of Idaho, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride. By the power vested in me, and as witnessed by friends and family, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may seal your vows with a kiss. By the power vested in me I now pronounce you husband and wife. Ladies and gentlemen I present Mr. and Mrs. (groom’s last name). You may kiss the bride. PERSONALIZED READINGS Personalized readings are very popular because they have a certain intensity that generally brings out the tears. A strong sentimental value and meaning is placed on readings from the Bride or Groom’s favorite song lyrics, poems, personalized poetry or inspirational verses in a religious book. The readings may have a dedicatory nature to them or might have meaningful connotations that only the couple may know and share in front of their guests. Some ceremonies even have family members participate in the ceremony by offering additional readings of their own. Ceremonies almost always include a ring exchange as part of the ancient tradition of the ceremony. However, some couples have elected to add more dimensions to the ceremony such as sand, candle lighting, the presentation of a rose or other symbolism. Here are more examples to assist in transcending the traditional boundaries of the ceremony. SAND CEREMONY Sand Ceremony - 1 “Today, this relationship is symbolized through the pouring of these two individual containers of sand one, representing you (BRIDE and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be, and the other representing you, GROOM, and all that you were and all that you are, and all that you will ever be. As these two containers of sand are poured into the third container, the individual containers of sand will no longer exist, but will be joined together as one. Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so will your marriage be.” Sand Ceremony - 2 “BRIDE and GROOM, today you join your separate lives together. The two separate bottles of sand symbolize your separate lives, separate families and separate sets of friends. They represent all that you are and all that you’ll ever be as an individual. They also represent your lives before today. As these two containers of sand are poured into the third container, the individual containers of sand will no longer exist, but will be joined together as one. Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so will your marriage be.”

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) Sand ceremonies are a nice touch when two families become one. Children from a previous marriage have their own color of sand and also pour it into the bottle as a symbol of the blending of families. After the bottle has been filled with various colors of sand this memorabilia makes a nice keepsake or treasure that can be displayed prominently in your home. CANDLE CEREMONY The ceremonial lighting of the candles is found in many cultures, but has only become more popular in the Western countries for the last quarter of the century. The lighting of a single candle symbolically joins two individuals together as one, and the extinguishing of the two separate tapers represents the bride and the groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vow to sublimate their individual needs to the greater needs of their union - each other. Sometimes the candle is saved, and re-lit during special occasions, such as an anniversary. The lighting of the Unity Candle is usually followed by the pronouncement of the couple as husband and wife. Before the wedding ceremony the candles are placed in the area where it will be held. After the exchange of vows and rings, the bride and groom go towards the candles and take them in their hand. Each person takes their lighted taper and simultaneously lights the single Unity Candle between them. They then blow out the candles and return them to their holders. Couples who are bringing children into the marriage sometimes include them with additional tapers. Moreover, some couples have their parents light the tapers first prior to the processional and then they light a single candle. The Unity Candle is not associated with any one religion or culture, so many couples of varied beliefs and backgrounds have used this addition to their wedding ceremony. ROSE CEREMONY Looking for an elegant touch to your wedding ceremony? Roses can be used in a variety of ways to declare your love to a friend or family member who is deceased. You might try a rose ceremony. There are essentially 2 different ways to incorporate a rose into a wedding. But please remember this important fact: this is your wedding ceremony and you can present a rose in any way that feels right to you. Here are some suggestions: (1) Presentation of a Rose to the motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of the Bride and Groom is usually done at the beginning of the wedding ceremony. Either the bride and groom can offer a rose to each mother after the presentation of the bride, or they can give a rose at the beginning of the ceremony after prompting by the wedding officiant. The wedding officiant could say:

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued)

“This wedding celebration is a joining of two unique families who stood separate until today. Today we unite these families by the marriage of (name of BRIDE) and (name of GROOM). The BRIDE and GROOM would each like to honor the separateness of their families and now, the togetherness, with the giving of a rose to their mothers. They would also like to acknowledge the love and sacrifice that each mother has made to make her children who they are today- a man and woman who are ready to be in a committed, loving marriage of their own.” The Bride and Groom, together, present a rose to each mother. (2) A Wedding Rose Ceremony is a part of the wedding ceremony that takes place usually after the wedding vows. The Wedding Officiant or the Maid of Honor and Best Man can offer the rose to the Bride and the Groom at the appropriate moment. Often a rose ceremony can go like this: Officiant: After the exchanging of rings, your first gift to each other, as husband and wife, is a single rose. The rose is a symbol of love so it is appropriate that it is your first gift. Please exchange your first gift as husband and wife. (The Groom gives a rose to his Bride.) Groom: (BRIDE’S name) I give you this rose as a symbol of my love. It began as a tiny, tightly closed bud and blossomed into this perfect rose that opened with the warmth of the sun, just as my love for you has grown in the warmth of your soul.

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) (The Bride gives a rose to her Groom.) Bride: (GROOM’S name) I give you this rose as a symbol of my love. It began as a tiny, tightly closed bud and blossomed into this perfect rose that opened with the warmth of the sun, just as my love for you has grown in the warmth of your soul. Officiant: GROOM and BRIDE, in remembrance of this day, as a reaffirmation of your love and of the vows you have spoken here today please give each other a single red rose each year on your anniversary. In the best of marriages there are difficult times. There are times of hurtful words, times of neglect, times when we must wait patiently to be together again. Those may be times when the words you really need to speak are difficult. I ask that you remember this moment and that when words fail you, that you place a single rose on your spouse’s pillow as a way to say, “I remember our vow” and “I love you”. Let this exchanging of roses be the beginning of a lifelong tradition of unspoken love. THE WEDDING PROCESSIONAL This is the traditional order of a Christian wedding processional: The mothers of the Bride and Groom are seated after all guests are seated, and immediately before the start of the processional music. They are usually escorted to their seats by a brother of the bride or groom, or by another usher. After they are seated, the Officiant, groom and best man enter by a side door and wait at the altar. Groomsmen may also enter by a side door, or can escort the bridesmaids. Bridesmaids Ring bearer and/or flower girl Maid or Matron of Honor The Bride, escorted by her father or other close male family member or friend. At the front of the aisle, her escort can remain standing with her until the minister asks, “Who gives this woman in marriage?” to which he responds “I do,” or “Her mother and I do.” However, some people feel this tradition is old fashioned and sexist, and choose to forgo it. In such a case, her escort walks with the bride to the front of the aisle, and then takes his seat in the front row. A wedding processional with a small bridal party: If you only have a few people in your bridal party, it’s a good idea to send them up one by one. For example, if you had a best man, maid of honor, flower girl, and ring bearer this should be the order: Groom takes his place at the front Best man enters Maid of Honor walks up aisle Ring Bearer Flower Girl Bride, with an escort (father or male friend) With such a small wedding party, it’s probably not formal enough to warrant a formal seating of the mothers and grandmothers. However, if you still want to do this, let the best man seat the grandmothers and the groom seat the mothers as part of their entrances.

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Personalizing Your Ceremony (Continued) For a non-denominational ceremony, a secular ceremony, or a non-traditional ceremony, you can either borrow liberally from one of these traditions, or make up your own rules. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIDE In all cases, the bride traditionally stands on the left, and the groom on the right. This dates back to medieval times when the groom might need to defend his bride in the middle of the ceremony, and wanted to leave his right hand, his sword hand, free. While very few grooms even carry a sword anymore, the tradition has lasted. However, you have probably heard the bride’s family sits on the bride’s side and the groom’s family sits on the groom’s side? This tradition still holds true but isn’t practical! Consider this…If your daughter is the bride and you sit on the bride’s side, she will turn towards her fiancée and you will not be making eye contact but see the back of her head. My advice is you scrap the tradition of bride’s side and groom’s side and sit on the opposite side enabling your guests to make eye contact with the family member that is getting married. The ceremony is a very important part of your wedding day and must not be overlooked. Have fun and reduce problems by determining the type of ceremony you will be having and personalizing it. Feel free to blend old traditions with new ideas and make your ceremony a memorable event. Greg Huff Idaho Wedding Guide

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Ceremony and Reception Sites

Tower of Love

Thinking about popping the question? Do you dare to be different or do you want to be traditional and get on one knee and ask for her hand? An exciting way to ask your girlfriend to marry you is now available with various options to ensure each engagement is different. The “Tower Engagement” at the Historic Shelton Wedding and Reception Center is a romantic location with a twist to ensure your engagement is unique.

Picture this setting: A historic building built in 1909 and recently remodeled in early 2006. The bell tower was completely refinished except the decorative stone that dates back one hundred years. We added hardwood floors, elegant bridal staircases and subtle lighting to se the mood for love. We labeled the finished work of art the “Tower of Love” to be used for elegant evenings, anniversary dinners, bridal shoots and tower engagements.

Afterwards you are welcome to look around the place and check out the scenery. We want your night to be special and memorable. When your elegant evening ends, we will give you a complimentary Idaho Wedding Guide so you can begin planning your wedding. We have numerous themes to choose from with all kinds of variations - every engagement is special. Select any of the following or make up your own Something to consider before asking her to marry you is - will you be successful? In 2006 - 2010, we had a 100% success rate with every single woman saying “yes” to the man of her dreams. Call for pricing information at (208) 528-0100.

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When you arrive at the Historic Shelton Wedding and Reception Center, your future bride ascends to the second story and then she turns the corner to see a beautiful bookcase that is closed. Hmm? She then opens the bookcase and ascend up the stairs two stories with beautiful candles and rose pedals sprinkled everywhere on the floor until she reaches the top of the “Tower of Love.” Appetizers, salads, and a romantic dinner will be served topped off with exquisite desserts. We can add a limousine, a dozen roses, a violinist, piano music, wedding singers, a chocolate fountain made for two, chocolate covered strawberries, a photographer, a horse and carriage, or a massage therapist. Dinner can be carried in or catered by a restaurant. Everything can be personalized!

Entertainment & DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Entertainment

Meet with your DJ before the wedding. Ask for references from previous clients. If you want your DJ to act as a Master of Ceremonies, provide a reception time line so he knows when to announce the various events such as cake cutting, first dance, etc. Many popular musicians and DJs are booked 3 to 6 months in advance, especially on weekends.

Questions for your DJ

w Are you the person who will perform at my wedding? w What are your hourly fees as well as overtime rates? (If people want to continue dancing to the music, you will want reasonable overtime rates.) w How do you dress for the wedding? w What is your payment/cancellation policy?

Music Music will set the tone of your ceremony and reception. You need to book them immediately! For a four-hour wedding reception, you will need 50 to 60 songs. Make sure to be clear with your DJ if you want dance music or just background music. Ask them for a list of songs they play. They many not want you to pick each song, but if there are a few specific songs, you need to make sure to let them know. The larger the guest list, the more variety needed in music.

Entertainment A live band, piano, violin or dance floor are other options to use with or instead of a DJ. Whatever you choose, please remember that entertainment is extremely important and at the very least music should be played at every reception to make it feel like a party.

Order of Dances

1st Dance: Bride & Groom 2nd Dance: Bride & Father, Groom & Mother 3rd Dance: Bride & Father-in-law, Groom & Mother-in-law 4th Dance: Guests are invited to join in.

Dance Lessons Consider dance lessons or at least practice together before your wedding celebration.

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Wedding Trends 2011

Wedding Trends For 2011

What are the top wedding trends in 2011? The brides will decide! However, after planning over seventy weddings in 2010, researching countless hours on the internet and talking to local businesses in Eastern Idaho our staff at the Idaho Wedding Guide will make some bold predictions for wedding trends in 2011. Wedding trends are opinions of others who probably never laid foot in the state of Idaho. They have some validity but should not be the cornerstone of your wedding plans. As a couple, research the latest trends and select those ideas that fit with your own style and preferences. Your wedding should be a reflection of who you are and what feels right for you, not someone else’s definition of what you should be doing. You may want to implement some of these trends or march to your own drum. Here are the latest wedding trends for 2011. FINANCE 1) DIY -The Personal Touch I see this term over and over. Do It Yourself (DIY) has been common in Idaho for many years compared to other states. One might conclude that Idaho is now setting this trend for the nation as more brides and their families continue to do 10% to 50% of their wedding themselves. For numerous years couples looking to get married were able to pay for their wedding by having their parent’s refinancing their home, obtaining a loan or putting their expenses all on a credit card. Money is harder to come by these days. Couples will continue to prioritize and spend money where they need to but will reduce expenses in areas they feel are not important. DIY ranges from friends helping with fashion (doing the brides hair and make-up), family and friends assisting with food ( preparation and potlucks), no frill flowers (seeing families try to become florists) and what I will term forgettable photography ( using uncle Bob). The list goes on and on (set-up, clean up, wedding cakes made by a friend, etc.) Have we seen it all? Probably not, as the trend will continue as everyone tries to save a buck. As brides look for ways to cut costs, they will also be looking for special ways to convey the true meaning of their wedding and continue with the wedding theme –DIY! 2) Longer Engagements Yes, 12 and 18-month engagements will become the norm. It’s practical for couples to want more time to save up money. The state of the economy is still not very rosy in Idaho. People need time to save as banks are still apprehensive to lend money, especially for a wedding. 3) Intimate Weddings Intimate weddings were hugely popular in 2010 and it will remain strong in 2011. Smaller guest lists allow a cozy, more personal celebration. There may be a few large weddings but they are becoming less frequent! The 400-person guest lists are deteriorating to really putting emphasis on celebrating their weddings with the most meaningful people in their lives. There are several benefits to this, the couple feels as if they can really enjoy celebrating with all of their guests (this alleviates a

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Wedding Trends 2011 (continued) lot of wedding-day stress) and it saves money. An estimate would be guest counts averaging 100 for the ceremony and 250 for the reception as couples equate guests to dollars. 4) Alternative Wedding Days Saturdays are still the primary day for weddings, but couples are choosing alternative days to help save money. Likewise, wedding venues and professionals are capturing more revenue by making special off-peak wedding packages with discounted pricing. Makes sense doesn’t it!….Plus your local wedding guests have more time during the weeknights than on Saturdays when they have to catch up with chores around the house, sports or other events that coincide with your wedding day.

FASHION 6) Wedding Dresses with Some Unique Twists White will always be the dress of choice. Therefore, there is no need to go into more details. Fashion experts continue to emphasize black is still a leading trend for the fashion-forward bride that wants to make a bold statement on her wedding day. I just don’t see it here! New 2011 wedding dresses will begin replacing bold ruffle designs with softer tulle accents. For the last few seasons, ruffles have been one of the biggest ways that designers have chosen to add volume and visual interest to their gowns. The bridal gowns which are set to debut soon move away from the ruffle trend, but not from the idea of using embellishments to add volume and femininity. Instead of ruffles, look for gowns with hundreds of tiny three dimensional flowers stitched all over them. Soft petals are another favorite decoration for the romantic gowns for 2011. Asymmetry is still in, both in the form of the one shoulder gown and wedding dresses with asymmetrical draping on the bodice. Very low waistlines are in abundance, and most bodices have ruched, gathered, or draped bodices which hug the figure (the wrapped fabric does a nice job

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WEDDING PLANNING 5) Invites and Updates We’ll also continue to see social media play a part in the wedding planning process. Couples will keep guests informed through wedding websites, texting and posting updates about their plans on Facebook and Twitter. Wedding applications for phones will soon appear and make it easier for brides to plan their wedding and stay on task. Technology continues to evolve and inviting and informing guests of any changes is becoming easier each day.

wedding Wedding trends Trends2011 2011(continued) (continued) of smoothing over any figure flaws in these tight bodices). Certainly strapless bridal gowns are still a staple, and the one shoulder style is still in style. A new addition to the necklines for 2011 wedding gowns is the tip of the shoulder design which is very slim at the top and just barely grazes the edge of the bride’s shoulder. It is a very flattering neckline for many women, and a nice alternative to the more typical strapless wedding dress. Lace is still going to be big, as vintage remains influential in the bridal world. Pocket wedding dresses. Big name brands are just beginning to get their feet wet in this area. This trend remains to be seen infrequently in this region….only time will tell if brides buy into this concept. Local merchants don’t carry many of them. I can see seamstresses capitalizing on this trend if brides decide to personalize the wedding dress. 7) Bridal Hairpieces Bridal hairpieces will be huge in 2011. Unique tiaras and heirloom fascinators will become a very important wedding accessory. Wearing one allows you to have some sense of style and feeling chic on your wedding day. 8) Hottest Color (Honeysuckle) and Color Combos–read the article in the Idaho Wedding Guide. (Page 34) THE CEREMONY 9) Style Your Aisle This trend will continue for 2010 as brides personalize the aisle! Decorate your aisle with more than just flowers by using your personal artifacts, memorabilia and unique candles. Tie-in your aisle decorations with your centerpieces for a dramatic and sophisticated look. THE RECEPTION 10) Vintage Styles One of the top wedding trends for the upcoming year is vintage and retroinspired with a modern twist. What’s old is new. We’ll see: o vintage wedding dresses with cap sleeves o beautiful textures o ornate details o natural settings, including outdoor and backyard weddings o vintage photography One recent wedding I attended had eight wedding dresses on display from the past century. It was a nice creative touch that gave the guests something cool to look at and reminisce about the past. People in Idaho love history and mixing things with the past and the present is always a winning combination.

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Wedding wedding trends Trends2011 2011(continued) (continued) 11) Varied Table Sizes and Shapes Varied table sizes and shapes at the reception – we’re big fans of traditional tables, but this makes sense. I actually like this trend! Your guests have different size families and they should feel comfortable sitting at a location that enables them to feel comfortable and relaxed. 12) Unique and Edible Centerpieces This is probably the easiest way to show your style. Brides can mix and match centerpieces, bring in personal pictures, use various sizes of vases, choose bold or soft colors, bring in nature or keep things simple and elegant. The point is your centerpieces need to be awesome. Your guests spend a lot of time at the tables and what better way to show your style then unique centerpieces. Please remember to account for the wind or elements if your event is going to take place outside. Try and incorporate food as part of your centerpiece (candy, fruit or other sweets that can be eaten without your guests having to leave the table. CATERING 13) Brunches, Finger Foods and Size of Portions Wedding brunches will gain popularity in 2011. This is a fresh alternative to the traditional rehearsal dinner. Generally, breakfast is less expensive than lunch so this is also has a reduced cost. Everyone likes breakfast! Wedding caterers will begin offering smaller-size food portions to be able to accommodate budget requirements of the wedding party (example, serving a 6 oz. piece of chicken instead of 8 oz.) or more finger foods. This change serves two purposes: satisfies health conscious guests who eat less and food is more costeffective. THE WEDDING CAKE 14) Personalized Wedding Cakes Wedding cakes are still trendy and this is your opportunity to show your style. We have top notch cake designers in this area. Anything is possible! Be creative! Ensure you discuss your thoughts with your cake decorator and your perfect wedding cake will be a reality. You can add more than fresh flowers if you dare, will leave it up to your imagination. THE FLOWERS 15) “Bling” Your Wedding Bouquet and Flowers Your wedding bouquet is definitely displaying more “bling” by making use of brooches, pin, pearls, feathers, shells and other unique items or heirlooms in the bouquet. These objects can all tie-in to your overall theme with your centerpieces and decorative aisle. The cascade-style bouquet continues to be fashionable and gives you many things to “Bling Your Bouquet”. Make your flowers stand out or make a statement by adding earthy elements such as succulents, branches, leaves, stones, and even bark. Incorporate these items into your centerpieces, other floral arrangements or your wedding cake. Vegetables, herbs and fruit continue their popularity and adding them to your flowers give color, texture, depth and fragrance.

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THE WORLD OF PHOTOGRAPHY and VIDEOGRAPHY 16) Quality is Queen! It will be a defining year for wedding photography in 2011. Investing in a quality photographer is extremely important to capture moments of a lifetime. Professional wedding photographers will keep their current rates while amateur photographers will budget discount themselves out of competition. Brides are beginning to understand that the cheapest photography doesn’t necessarily mean the best photography. In such a competitive market where everyone with a camera thinks they are a wedding photographer-only the strong will survive. Expect to see more professional wedding videography at formal wedding events. It’s best to let the pros capture the entire production instead of relying on uncle Bob. MUSIC and ENTERTAINMENT 17) Music and Entertainment for all Ages If you want your wedding to be a success, consider all your guests. Have a wide variety of music for 4 year olds to seventy year olds. Most people don’t like to dance but they do like to watch children dance or other live entertainment. Be creative and hire musicians, DJ’s or other entertainers to keep your party alive. By Greg Huff Idaho Wedding Guide

Harp Music for Special Occasions Nina Munger Harpist 15 years experience Suzuki Harp Method teacher Idaho Falls Symphony Musician

307.413.6566 www.jacksonholeharp.com Music samples and references on website.

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Event Decorations & Rentals

Decorating

Doing it yourself vs. hiring a pro The biggest advantage for hiring someone is to let your parents and family enjoy the wedding. The last thing you want is your parents up until 2 a.m. cleaning up. Decorating consultants can make it easier on everyone involved. However, if you choose to do it yourself, you need a lot of time and imagination. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think you have to do it yourself for financial reasons. Sometime it can cost more to get all the decorations on your own.

Professional decorators Decorating consultants often have great and unique ideas, and can help you create a variety of themes. A decorator can handle all the details and coordinate every thing to go perfectly together. Decorators typically carry a huge variety of things and provide you with everything you need. Keep in mind that package deals are usually less expensive.

Things you should discuss with your decorator w How to utilize your reception space w How to create a convenient traffic flow w Where to set the gift table, cake table and food tables.

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Rental items You can rent nearly anything you need for a wedding celebration. Reserve your rental items as far in advance as possible. Rental items go quickly especially during the summer, as outdoor events are very popular. Tents and canopies are very good for outdoor events, yet can be expensive due to labor in delivery and set-up. You will need to know how many tents, their size and color. Also, you may need portable air-conditioning or heating depending on the time of year. Lighting can add drama or create romance to your reception. Lighting options include candelabras, table lamps, votive candles, hurricanes, string lights or tiki lamps (outdoor). If your caterer or decorator does not provide tables and linens, you will need to rent them.

If you are renting table and chairs, consider the type of reception you want. For a dinner reception, you need to have chairs for all guests. For a cocktail reception, you only need tables and chairs for 30% to 50% of your guests.

Find out

w What are the reservation and cancellation policies. w If a deposit is required. w What are the set-up and delivery fees. w When the items will be delivered w When items will be picked up.

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Wedding Planning 101 (A Class You Can’t Afford To Miss) Wedding Planning 101- A Class You Can’t Afford To Miss In today’s tough economic times why do so many couples continue to plan their weddings without getting the help from an expert wedding coordinator? Are professional wedding planners considered to be a luxury in the state of Idaho? Many couples plan their wedding without even considering calling a wedding coordinator to see what they have to offer. Recently engaged couples rely upon their own expertise or friends and family who have either planned their own wedding or have pulled some checklist off the internet. This big mistake cost couples hundreds if not thousands of dollars and countless hours of wasted time. The best time to call a wedding planner or consultant is at the beginning of the process. However, some planners can be brought in at any point to assist with a few aspects or serve as a director on the day of the actual wedding. If you have enjoyed a wedding and it seemed well-organized, ask the couple who was responsible. These days it seems more and more people consider themselves wedding planners, but be aware that any clever bridal entrepreneur from photographers to caterers may list themselves as wedding planners. Before you make an appointment, find out whether they plan weddings first and foremost or whether weddings are a mere sideline occupation. Pricing varies among professional wedding planners. Most wedding planners charge in three different ways: an hourly rate, a flat fee or a percentage of your total wedding budget. Phenomenal wedding coordinators expect to be paid 10 to 15 percent of your total wedding budget. Therefore if your budget is $5000 then expect to pay $500 for your wedding planner. Ask for a contract to ensure you know what your wedding coordinator is required to perform throughout the wedding planning process and the day of the actual wedding. A good wedding coordinator should be someone who: • Offers insights based upon experience • Has a sense of style, taste and creativity • Gives you advise based upon expertise but is willing to listen to your interests and desires • Is detail- oriented • Answers their phone or returns your text message or phone call promptly • Is a liaison between you and other wedding professionals • Negotiates contracts with vendors • Gets you the most “bang for your buck” • Organizes and keeps planning on track • Is objective but not over-bearing • Has a working knowledge of all aspects of a wedding • Provides referrals or evidence of a good track record • Keeps you calm and on task • You have a great rapport and feel comfortable with discussing all aspects of your wedding

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Wedding Planning 101 (Continued) On the other hand, a good wedding coordinator is not: • Available 24 hours a day • Just a general contractor • A representative for one particular vendor, such as a banquet manager or florist • Your sister • Your Aunt Suzie, the homemaker • Your mother By Greg Huff, Idaho Wedding Guide Getting Married! Make your first call to the Idaho Wedding Guide at (208) 4034705 and we will save you both time and money. We guarantee it! Our agency will save you $100 or we will give you a free bridal bouquet.

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Floral

Florists Picking flowers

This can be an overwhelming task, as there is such a variety. The help of a professional florist will be tremendously helpful. Call ahead to schedule a consultation if possible. Take a description or picture of your wedding attire, fabric, swatches, color samples and favorite flower suggestions. The florist will be able to assist you in selecting the appropriate flowers to complement your color scheme and style of wedding.

Deciding on a florist Choose flowers that are in season to assure availability and because they are usually less expensive than flowers not in season. Roses, orchids, lilies, calla lilies, and carnations are in season year-round. A good florist should be able to give you an idea of what you can do for your budget, along with advice or alternatives. If you want a bridal bouquet in your bridal portrait, be sure to arrange this with your florist.

Ideas

To personalize your bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bouquets, insert a different type of flower in each of their bouquets. If you have a favorite flower that is costly or out of season, consider using silk for that one flower. Incorporate candy into your centerpieces, jewels or other personalized items to make each table something special.

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Floral what do they mean?

Baby’s Breath - pure heart Calla Lily - feminine beauty Carnation - pure, deep love Chrysanthemum - cheerfulness, constancy, truth Daffodil - regard, joy, devotion Daisy - faith, cheer, simplicity Forget-me-not - true love Iris - faith, wisdom, health Ivy - friendship, fidelity & matrimony (the 3 essentials for a happy marriage) Lily - purity Marigold - sacred affection Orchid - love beauty, fertility Rose - love Stephanotis - good-luck Violet - modesty, faithfulness White flowers - innocence

Checklist

o Bridal bouquet and tossing bouquet o Attendant’s bouquets (similar to bride’s but not as elaborate) o Hairpieces or floral wreaths for bride, attendants, or flower girls (optional) o Corsages for mothers, grandmothers and servers o Boutonniere for groom o Boutonnieres for groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers o Floral decorations for ceremony o Floral decorations for reception (centerpieces, decorations, cake, etc.) o Flower girl’s basket (optional)

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Health & Beauty

Beauty

Health & beauty services There is a lot of pressure to look good, especially on your wedding day, as it will be displayed in your photographs for the rest of your life? Beauty professionals know the tricks of the trade that can really help you look your best. Have a hairstylist do trial runs on your hair at least two (2) months before your wedding. Bring your veil as well as pictures of hairstyles you like from bridal magazines. If you want to have your hair cut, colored, or permed before the wedding, schedule these at least 3 to 4 months prior to the wedding. Visit a make-up specialist at least three (3) weeks before your wedding. You may want to have them try a new look. Eyelash and eyebrow tinting can really bring out your features and reduce your time to get ready. Avoid heavy blush when having black and white photographs taken because the blush will look like a dark shadow. Visit an obstetrician or gynecologist 2 to 3 months prior to your wedding to receive a premarital exam. If you are interested in any birth control, this exam is when you would discuss options and decide on one. It is a good idea to visit the dentist before you get married and make sure your mouth is in great shape. Also, you may be on your parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insurance, so take advantage. Teeth whitening is a great way to really enhance your beauty and look great in your white dress.

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Honeymoon, Hotel & Travel

Honeymoon guest lodging

You may need to plan for guests traveling in from out of town. Larger hotels have rooms which are lovely and comfortable, accommodating bigger groups. They usually have many facilities (breakfast, restaurants, etc.) within, so that your guests have everything they need close by. There are also wonderful bed and breakfast facilities which are often more charming and great for smaller groups. Be sure to ask hotels about discount rates for several guests reserving rooms at the same location.

wedding night accommodations (groom) Don’t forget to plan a bridal suite for your wedding night. Plan on somewhere in a good location, relatively close to (or between) the city where your reception will be held and the city you will be flying from (if applicable) for your honeymoon. Theme rooms are very popular and intimate, or bread and breakfast facilities are very warm and romantic.

honeymoon travel (groom) Travel is a great way to start your new life together, relaxing from all the stress of wedding planning. Whatever you do. PLAN AHEAD. Decide on your honeymoon budget considering every possible expense: plane tickets, car rental, hotel, meals, sightseeing trips, souvenirs, tips, etc. Get your passports and visas early if you are leaving the county. Check with your county clerk’s office (see Page 7) for application and details. For up-to-date information you can check http://.travel.state.gov/ passport_services.html. The bride should have her passport and airline tickets reflect her maiden name for ease in proof of identification. Because planning a wedding is very “involved,” hiring the services of a good travel agent will take a lot of unnecessary pressure off of you and will save you money. Good travel agents will offer helpful advice on currency exchange, passports and clothing requirements. Your agent may also mention the fact you are on your honeymoon to the hotel personnel. Often, newlyweds get special treatment. Arrange for someone (usually maid of honor and best man) to take back rental items for you while you are on your honeymoon.

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Perfecting Your Wedding Day - Tasks & Timelines

Perfecting Your Wedding Day After observing well over 500 events the past five years one thing is certain, your wedding day will arrive! The question is are you ready for it? Will you stay on task or cram too many activities all in one day? Did you make the right choices? Did you plan too much? Will you enjoy it or be so strapped to timelines that you won’t have a chance to celebrate? The Idaho Wedding Guide is here to help. Choose your tasks from the list below and then use the timelines as a guide to scheduling your event along with the helpful hints. Choose among these tasks below and circle your preferences. TASKS • Set up time…determine this after you have chosen your tasks. • Preparation and priming the bride and wedding party (allow one to three hours!) • Brunch or Luncheon (Formal or Buffet Style) • Dinner (Formal or Buffet Style) • Wedding Program (presentation of a slide show, introduction of family members to one another, etc.) • Pictures (how long and when?) • Formal Receiving Line or Casual Meet and Greet • Bride and Groom First Dance • Father Daughter Dance • Mother Son Dance • Wedding Party Dance • Specialty Dances (Money, Grandparents, etc.) • Owning It –(adding your own activities or events) • Cutting the cake • Toast from family and friends • Bouquet Toss • Garter Toss • Dancing • Mingling • Exiting the event ( Casual Sweet Escape or Formal Gauntlet Line) • Clean up…determine after you have chosen all the scheduled activities and assign family members to specific tasks. TIMELINES Now develop your timelines similar to the examples below and implement your tasks. Ceremony and Reception (Total event time – 4 hours) Ceremony - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - Ceremony (1/2 hour for the ceremony assuming you will start about 10 to 15 minutes later than scheduled time allowing for guests to arrive late). 5:30 PM- Pictures immediately following the ceremony (1/2 hour). Helpful hint: If you are getting married and having the reception at the same location, you will need to decide if guests will greet you right after the ceremony or

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Perfecting Your Wedding Day - Tasks & Timelines if you want to disappear with the photographer for pictures. Your guests can greet each of you later or formally congratulate each of you when forming a receiving line if you choose to do pictures immediately following the ceremony.

PHOTO BY E & N PHOTOGRAPHY

Reception- 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 6:00 PM –Dinner or Appetizers -Food is served to your guests (1 hour). Helpful hint: If you are having an informal reception, try and have your food served right after your ceremony so guests can eat appetizers or desserts while you are taking pictures. Guests who have additional obligations or commitments that need to leave will be glad that you considered having food for them. 7:00 PM -Mingling with guests (1 to 2 hours and implement the tasks chosen from above). Ceremony and Reception in the summer (Total event time- 4 hours) Ceremony -6:00 PM with the Reception to immediately follow 6:00 PM - Ceremony (1/2 hour for the ceremony assuming you will start about 10 to 15 minutes later than scheduled time for guests who arrive late). Helpful hint: If you are getting married in the summer months please consider that most guests won’t appreciate you getting married during the heat of the day if you are getting married outside (1:00PM to 4:00PM). Moreover, the best time for wedding pictures is when the sun is setting, creating a picturesque background and perfect lighting. 6:30 PM- Pictures immediately following the ceremony (1/2 hour). Reception -7:00 PM to 10:00 PM 7:00 PM –Reception begins –Dinner is served to your guests (1 ¼ hour). Helpful hint: If you are having a formal reception, your guests will expect to be served dinner not just desserts. 8:15 PM - Cut the Cake (10 minutes) 8:25 PM –Bride and Groom 1st Dance (5 minutes) 8:30 PM –Dancing and mingling (1½ hours add any tasks chosen from above). Temple Marriage, Luncheon and Reception Total event time -8 hours 11:00 AM-Arrive at the Temple Be at the temple at least 1 hour before your ceremony to allow time to get dressed and receive instructions. Temple Ceremony - 12:00 PM 12:00 PM - Ceremony (Timeline: allow 1 hour for the ceremony and time for people to change or freshenup afterwards).

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Perfecting Your Wedding Day - Tasks & Timelines 1:00 PM-Pictures at the Temple Grounds (1 hour) Helpful hint: remember to have your florist or a friend deliver your bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonnière to the temple for pictures after the ceremony). 2:00 PM –Driving Time (1/2 hour) Allow for driving time to the location of your luncheon (backyard, stake center or reception center). Driving time depends on the distance from the temple. Luncheon - 2:30 PM 2:30 PM –Luncheon (3/4 hour) Allow additional time to set-up the luncheon if your family or friends are catering the event. You might allocate time to have families get to know one another by introducing themselves, having toasts or a program. If your reception is at the same place as your luncheon then allow time to clean up the tables afterwards and set-up for the reception. 3:30 PM – Photography - Pictures with families, wedding party and bride and groom (1 hour) . 4:30 PM – Polish and Preparation (preparation time for the wedding party to polish up and if necessary fix hair, make-up, etc). Reception - 5:00PM -8:00PM 5:00 PM –Reception Line (Bride and Groom form a line with the families and wedding party). Helpful hint: You might want to begin your reception with a ring ceremony for guests who are non-members of the LDS religion. 6:30 PM- Cut the wedding cake and have it served to guests. Helpful hint: Allow time for the guests to see your cake on display but serve it sometime in the middle of your reception so wedding guests can also enjoy tasting the wedding cake before they leave your event. 6:45 PM- Bride and Groom 1st Dance 6:50 PM - Father Daughter Dance 6:55 PM- Mother Son Dance 7:00 PM - Wedding Party Dance 7:05 PM -Dancing and Mingling 7: 30 PM- Bridal Bouquet Toss 7:40 PM - Garter Toss 8:00 PM - Exit Song Your reception concludes at 8:00PM as scheduled and you are on your way to your hotel and honeymoon at an early hour. Consider these important points: • Scheduling your luncheon earlier such as at 12:00 PM and expecting your guests who attended the temple ceremony and luncheon to come back in the evening for the reception may be unrealistic. Some of your guests might drive home or to their hotel and not return. • Consider how guests are treated that come from out of town. Are you asking them to go back and forth to their hotel room because of long periods between the ceremony, luncheon or the reception? • Make non-members of the LDS Church feel comfortable by having a short ring ceremony at a Church or reception center.

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Perfecting Your Wedding Day - Tasks & Timelines • Timelines should only be used as a reference, keeping in mind that your reception line might be shorter or longer than anticipated. • You might need to improvise at the last minute. • Try not to add additional events, songs, or activities the day of your wedding. Most likely, this will turn into a disaster because you are deviating from your original plans. • Entertainment such as DJ’s, music, bands and four string quartets provide a unique atmosphere that keeps your guests at your reception for longer periods of time. • Lack of food or minimal choices is still one of the top reasons why guests leave a reception earlier than expected. • Providing something for children to do during your reception is a good idea: coloring activities, candy stations, crafts, videos and games keep kids busy. • Toss your bouquet and garter when most single people are in attendance. Sometimes couples wait too long and all their single friends have left their event. • Allow plenty of time for pictures. • Remember it is usually windy in Idaho…so plan accordingly. In other words, try to have a back-up plan if your plan involves getting married outside. Wind, rain and snow can come anytime! By Janet Huff Idaho Wedding Guide

wedding hints w Get a second and third set of eyes to proofread your invitations and other printed items. After a thorough going-over, read each piece from the end to the beginning. This will force you to read slower and prevent the eye from skipping over words that are commonly grouped together. w Label vases with the bride and bridesmaids names, and arrange them on a side table. After the ceremony they can display their bouquets without harming the flowers or ruining the shape of the bouquet. This can make a nice display for all to see, and the bouquets are easy to locate if they are needed. w Make sure to ask your florist to make a throw bouquet for your wedding day. Most brides will want to keep their bouquet and have it professionally preserved. Throw bouquets are not usually expensive, and can be used as decoration until it is time to throw the bouquet. Put it in a pretty vase by your cake or guest book. wAsk your cake decorator for a cake box. Many brides do not consider how much cake will be left at the end of their reception. It is a great idea to ask the cake decorator before the wedding for extra cake boxes. This will allow you to share and disperse your cake among friends and family after the reception. It will also make it more convenient for you to take your cake home without frosting your car.

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Finance & First Home

Finance

Now that you’re hitched (or soon to be), it’s time to focus on finances. Here are some tips on saving and spending:

things to consider

w Are there monthly fees? Are fees waived with a certain minimum balance? w Can you link accounts to meet minimums? w Will you get charged for each check you write? w Do they offer online banking? Is it free? w Is there any overdraft protection? w Will you get charged to use your ATM card? w Can you use your ATM card at other banks? w Do they offer free checking?

credit unions vs. Banks A popular alternative to the traditional bank is a credit union. Many credit unions offer free checking accounts with no fees and have no minimum balance on those checking accounts. Oftentimes, they will also offer interest-earning checking accounts.

checking accounts Make sure to find out the fees involved (if any) with your checking account. There are ways to avoid these fees. Some banks let you link your accounts to meet minimum balances, and some will wave monthly fees if your employer directly deposits your paycheck. Many institutions are basic account that provide limited services without many of the fees.

Joint accounts Just because you’re married does not mean you need joint bank accounts. Some couples like to keep separate accounts despite the fact they share expenses. Others like to have one joint account for household expenses and separate accounts for personal things. If you choose a joint account, make sure you have some way of keeping track of the purchases and checks each of you write.

savings accounts Smart idea - keep money stashed in a savings account, even if just a little. It accrues interest, is easily accessible and you never know when you’ll need it. If you want to stash a big chunk of change, consider other options offering a higher interest rate - a savings account generally nets 1.5% a year or so. Some saving options to look into are CDs, IRA’s and money market accounts.

first home It is a great idea to open a “housing” savings account 6 months to a year before you plan on buying a house. Put the amount of money you will need for your house payment in this account each month. Don’t touch it, and in one year, you will have enough for a house down payment.

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Jewelry

Don’t be rushed. Make sure you look around. Find something you absolutely love. After all, you will be wearing these rings the rest of your life. Remember, bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better when it comes to diamonds. Quality depends on the 4 C’s.

Carat PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

This is the weight, not size, of a diamond, There are 100 points in a carat, so half a carat equals 50 points. Cut and mounting can make a diamond appear larger or smaller than its actual weight.

Clarity This is the presence of inclusions (flaws) in a diamond. Inclusions may look like tiny clouds or crystals. Where the inclusions are located, the number and the size of the inclusions can affect the value of a diamond. Keep in mind that any flaw you cannot see with the naked eye does not reduce the beauty of a diamond.

Color The color refers to how colorless a diamond is. When a diamond has a yellow tint, it can dim the beauty of the natural light entering the stone. Diamonds range from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown.) Ask to see your diamond (without the setting) next to a color master grading diamond.

PHOTO BY GENERATIONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Cut This will refer to a diamond’s angles and proportions. Cut contributes most to a diamond’s brilliance. Diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow will leak light through the bottom or sides - resulting in a less brilliant diamond. The ideal cut is the most brilliant. Shapes of diamonds include round, pear-shaped, oval, marquise (pointed on both ends), emerald (rectangular), heartshaped, trillion (triangle), and princess (square).

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring Congratulations! You are going to get married and want to make it official so one of your first steps is going to be purchasing a diamond ring. The classic diamond is, to most people, a round gem of sparkling white brilliance with a kaleidoscope of dazzling facets to entice the eye. Diamonds are natural crystals of varying size and shape formed in the earth over millions of years. The traditional round brilliant diamond, though the most popular diamond shape of all, is hardly the whole story. By the diamond cutterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art these crystals are carved into gems of spectacular and whimsical beauty. A cutterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skill will produce a diamond of the greatest size with the fewest flaws and the most brilliance. So where do you begin? Most couples or guys begin shopping around for a ring by considering two things: price and financing. Yes, we all should know that color, cut, clarity and most importantly carats are all taken into consideration when purchasing a ring. However, be mindful that the ring you choose for your wife will have to stand the test of time. In other words, will the ring still be stylish 10, 15 or even 30 years from now? Choosing the correct shape and setting are important aspects of purchasing a ring that is overlooked when shopping around.

THIS IS SHAPING UP BEAUTIFULLY

Round Brilliant Diamonds This shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes, and accounts for more than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut, divided among its crown (top), girdle (widest part) and pavilion (base), is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the maximum in fire and brilliance. Oval Diamonds An even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among women with small hands or short fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering illusion of length to the hand. Marquise Diamonds An elongated shape with pointed ends inspired by the fetching smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by the Sun King, Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Louis XIV, who wanted a diamond to match it. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds. Pear Shaped Diamonds A hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the marquise, it is shaped most like a sparkling teardrop. It also belongs to that category of diamond whose design most complements a hand with small or average-length fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants or earrings. Heart Shaped Diamonds This ultimate symbol of romance is essentially a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the beauty of the cut. Look for a stone with an even shape and a well-defined outline. Emerald Cut Diamond This is a rectangular shape with cut corners. It is known as a step cut because its concentric broad, flat planes resemble stair steps. Since inclusions and inferior color are more pronounced in this particular cut, take pains to select a stone of superior clarity and color.

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Choosing thePerfect Wedding Ring (Continued) Princess Cut Diamond This is a square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling facets. It is a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire engagement rings. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is often embellished with triangular stones at its sides. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the diamond’s depth in order to maximize brilliance. Depth percentages of 70% to 78% are not uncommon. Trilliant Diamonds This is a spectacular wedge of brittle fire. First developed in Amsterdam, the exact design can vary depending on a particular diamond’s natural characteristics and the cutter’s personal preferences. It may be a traditional triangular shape with pointed corners or a more rounded triangular shape with 25 facets on the crown, 19 facets on the pavilion, and a polished girdle. It is definitely for the adventurous. Radiant Cut Diamonds This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the emerald shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its 70 facets maximize the effect of its color refraction. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the diamond’s depth in order to maximize brilliance. Depth percentages of 70% to 78% are not uncommon. Cushion Cut Diamond An antique style of cut that looks like a cross between an Old Mine Cut (a deep cut with large facets that was common in the late 19th and the early 20th centuries) and a modern oval cut. The shape of things to come in diamonds has already produced other fanciful and innovative styles such as the flower, cloverleaf, triangle and kite. Nor does it stop there. Some cuts are variations on standard shapes, others spin off the natural crystal formation of the stone, and still others take the idea of shape to revolutionary new heights. Individuality and taste determine the fashion, and the magic of the gem cutter transforms each stone into a unique work of art.

SETTING UP FOR SUCCESS A ring’s setting is like comparing if a house has curbside appeal. The setting takes this beautiful piece of art (your diamond ring) and places it in a picturesque view that shows off your ring to the world. An elaborate setting may camouflage flaws in a stone. In fact, illusion setting (the shape of a little box in which the stone sits is almost a sure sign that your stone has something to hide. Classic settings include: Bezel: streamlined setting with no prongs. The stone sits close to the finger. This setting may reduce the appearance of brilliance because light can’t enter from the sides. This setting works well with two different metals such as yellow gold and platinum. Carved scroll: Victorian setting that became an international trend. Elaborate scroll work surrounds the stone.

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Choosing thePerfect Wedding Ring (Continued) Channel: Used in mounting a number of smaller stones of uniform size. Cluster: A large stone surrounded by smaller stones. Gypsy: Stone lies flush with the band. Metal around the stone is much heavier than around the shank. Invisible: No visible metal prongs or channels. Stones are cut and fit so precisely that no gaps exist between them. These cost more because stones must match very closely. Pavé: Small stones set together in a cluster with no metal showing through. Prong: Four or six metal “claws” grasp onto the gemstone. A six- prong setting is often called a Tiffany setting. Silver cups: Edges crimped beneath the stones to reflect light. This design originated in the late 1700’s. Solitaire: A single gemstone mounted without ornamental side stones, usually with four or six prongs. Tension: Diamond appears to be almost floating, barely held in place at the girdle. Tiffany: Uses six prongs.

THE LOW DOWN ON METALS For decades, the solitaire diamond engagement ring with a yellow gold setting was pretty standard for the jewelry industry. And silver, a less-valued metal, was usually reserved for gifts and less sacred occasions. Then white gold and platinum came along, and with palladium recently added to the mix, today’s bride has far more options. But how do you know which metal is right for the ring design you have chosen? Lifestyle, preference and the overall style of the ring should all be considered when deciding which metal will work best for your ring. Here’s some info on the different types of metals available, and pros and cons of each. Silver Silver jewelry, including engagement rings, is usually manufactured in one of two ways: sterling silver or silver plated. Because it is much too soft in its pure form, fine silver (99.9 percent or better) is usually only sold on the commodities market. Sterling silver is 92.5 percent pure silver mixed with 7.5 percent other metals, usually copper. Other metals used in place of copper include germanium, zinc, platinum and additives such as silicon and boron. Silver plated jewelry is usually bonded to another metal, such as copper or nickel.

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring (Continued) Pros Sterling silver is usually the least expensive of the precious metals, and compliments the brilliance of any ring setting. Cons This metalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soft texture, even when combined with other metals, means it is likely to show wear over time. In addition, silver plated jewelry is often combined with nickel, a metal linked to skin allergies in people with sensitive skin. And silver plating can wear off over time exposing the other metal underneath. Gold For years, yellow gold was the most sought-after metal for engagement rings and wedding bands. The most malleable of all metals, gold is often combined with copper or silver to make it less resistant to scratching and denting. While 24k gold is pure gold, most engagement ring settings are sold in 18k, 14k or 10k; the lower the carat, the higher the percentage of other metals. White gold is an alloy of gold and another white metal, such as silver, palladium or nickel, and usually has an outer layer of rhodium to give the piece a nice luster. Gold plating, a thin layer of gold over a piece of silver jewelry, is the least expensive alternative in the gold family. Pros Gold provides a warm background for a more traditional solitaire setting and it accentuates the beauty of most diamond stone settings. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional and more affordable than the higher-end metals, and works well with darker gem stones such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Cons The soft texture of gold makes it susceptible to scratching and denting. White gold typically contains nickel and creates a dilemma for the 12.5 percent of the population that is allergic to nickel. In addition, the rhodium coating may need to be replaced during the lifetime of the ring. And while gold plating is a less expensive option, it is rarely used because the plating usually tarnishes in a short period of time. Palladium A newcomer to the jewelry industry, palladium is a metal that offers the buyer the best of both worlds. As a member of the platinum family, the brilliance and durability of palladium outshines other white metals. This metalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheaper price is a perfect match for the budget-conscious. Pros Palladium is the best bargain white metal. Its hypoallergenic nature makes it an attractive alternative for brides who may have had to pass on white gold in the past because of a nickel allergy. In addition, palladium is cheaper than platinum and can be combined with gold to make a hypoallergenic white gold engagement ring setting.

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring (Continued) Cons Because palladium is the hot new trend in the jewelry industry, its popularity continues to grow and there have been few, if any criticisms of it. Except, of course, that it’s not platinum which is the Grand-Daddy of all metals. Platinum The frame of the crown for Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, worn during her and George the VI’s coronation in 1937, was made of platinum. Hundreds of years earlier, Louis the XV of France declared platinum to be the only metal fit for a king. What else is there to say? Pros Platinum is a very strong, durable metal that is very resistant to wear and tarnish. As a white metal, its integrity is unmatched, and when combined with the brilliance of a diamond, creates an exquisite display as an engagement ring. Platinum prongs are often used to hold diamonds in a setting but platinum prongs can be used on shanks made of other metals. Cons Platinum is the most expensive of the precious metals. Deciding which metal works best for your engagement ring is a big decision. When choosing your wedding ring feel free to meddle with your jeweler when deciding what metal to pick, because this piece of jewelry you will want to show off for a lifetime.

DOES YOUR STONE CUT THE MUSTARD? The diamond cut often refers to two separate characteristics of a loose diamond: (1) its shape, and (2) its make, or style of cutting and quality, which consists of polish and symmetry. Polish and Symmetry A diamond’s shape as well as its polish and symmetry affect the “behavior” of the stone—simply speaking, how it reflects light. In general, a diamond’s cut is all about maximizing the optical light effects that determine the ultimate beauty of the diamond: brilliance (amount of light reflected back to viewer), fire (split of light into a rainbow’s colors), and scintillation (glittering of reflected light in the crystal and visibility of dark spots when stone is moved). Polish and symmetry significantly impact all three of these. In the following picture you can see the most critical parts of a diamond and their names.

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring (Continued) To ensure that the diamond has the best brilliance and fire, the best option is to stay away from stones with proportions below the ideal standard. Below you can find the explanation for all facets of a diamond and standards below which you should not buy the stone. The information about such standards can be found in the diamond certificate. GIA calls their certificates diamond dossiers or diamond grading reports while AGS calls theirs diamond quality documents or diamond quality reports.

A diamond’s most critical parts 1. Diameter of a loose diamond, measured at the Girdle, which is the widest portion of a stone. 2. Girdle – the middle portion of a diamond stone, its widest part. The Girdle is measured from “extremely thin” to “extremely thick” – the “medium” thickness Girdle is preferred (you can find the information about it in the diamond certificate). Stay away from a “thin” Girdle as it is too fragile and can chip more easily, also do not buy a “thick” one either as it is unnecessarily adding weight to the stone where it matters the least. 3. Table – the top of the diamond, whose area size ideally should be 53% to 57.5% (in a Round Brilliant) of the Girdle diameter according to the American Gemological Society (AGS) lab studies. Some jewelers say up to 64% is still acceptable. Run away from the diamond with the Table area above 64%. 4. Depth – in a Round Brilliant, length of the stone from the surface of the Table to the bottom of its Pavilion). Depth should ideally be 58% to 63% of the stone Diameter. 5. Crown – the portion of the diamond between its girdle and its table) – the Crown angle in the well-cut diamond should be 33 to 35 degrees. 6. Pavilion – in a Round Brilliant, the cone-shaped lower part of the stone: A. The Pavilion Depth of the stone, according to the AGS Lab, should ideally be 42.5% to 43.5%. Pavilion Depth is a portion of the overall diamond Depth and represents the height of a diamond Pavilion or the distance from the Girdle to the bottom of Pavilion, called Culet. In diamonds with very deep Pavilions, the entire surface of the Table appears to be dark creating what industry experts call a “Nailhead”. On the other hand, stones with shallow Pavilions often produce a “Fisheye” effect due to Girdle’s reflection in the diamond’s Table. So, if the Certificate specifies the Pavilion Depth is above 43.5% or below 42.5% – the diamond’s sparkle will be diminished. B. Pavilion angle is another important dimension of the stone, which determines its brilliance and fire. However, many GIA certificates (called Diamond Dossiers and Reports) do not provide information on the diamond’s Pavilion angle. So, you will have to rely on the information on the stone’s overall quality of the Polish and Symmetry as well its Table size and Depth (all GIA Dossiers and Reports provide this information as a bare minimum).

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring (Continued) 7. Culet – the facet at the bottom tip of a gemstone. The quality of the Culet is typically specified in a diamond certificate – the preferred Culet is not visible with the unaided eye (so, the best one should be graded either “None” or “Medium”).

SIZE DOES MATTER…SHOW ME THE CARAT!

Bigger can be better when it comes to diamonds! The weight of the diamond is referred to as a carat. Is it carrot or carat? A “Carat” is just a diamond industry special word for weight of a diamond stone. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or in other words, a 5-carat stone weighs 1 gram. The word “carat” originates from the Greek word kerátion, which means carob beans, which were known in the ancient world for uniformity of their size and weight and were used as a measure of weight for different objects, including gemstones. Why so high priced? Finding rough diamonds is increasingly rare with size: for every million pieces of rough material only one piece on average is large enough to produce a 1-carat finished diamond. During the cutting process, a diamond typically loses 40% to 60% of its original rough diamond size. As carat weight gets larger, the value of the diamond stone increases disproportionately. A regression analysis of available diamonds shows carat weight accounts for the biggest portion of the diamond value, followed by color and clarity. Still, a poorly crafted large diamond can be worthless compared to a much smaller, well crafted stone.

DON’T BE COLOR BLIND A diamond can never be too “white”. Some diamonds possess natural fluorescence, which produces a yellowish, bluish or whitish glow when viewed in daylight or under florescent lights. Professional gemologists test for florescence to grade the diamond properly. A white diamond that fluoresces yellow can make the stone look less white, decreasing its value. Each stone is graded based upon the color because diamonds occur in virtually every color and shade. Diamonds can have different colors ranging from colorless (also called white), through yellow, blue, green, pink, orange, and to the rarest, red. The color of a diamond is determined by the chemical impurities as well as structural imperfections of the stone. Some diamond colors add to their value, often significantly. (Red diamonds are substantially more expensive than white ones—due to their rarity and natural beauty). The least expensive are yellowish diamonds, unless the stone is a very bright yellow, making it a more valuable fancy stone.

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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring (Continued) Gemstone associations and institutes, such as GIA (the Gemological Institute of America), AGS (American Gem Society), EGL (European Gemological Laboratory), IGI (International Gemological Institute), AGA (American Gem Appraisers), etc., all have their own color grading standards and nomenclature. The most widely used grading system was developed by the GIA. It grades diamonds from D (colorless) to M (faint yellow) all the way to Z (light yellow). Color grades beyond Z are considered to be ‘fancy’ grades and are graded separately. Such diamonds are also typically more, not less, expensive than those with the yellowish hue due to their rarity and beauty.

CAN YOU BE CLEARER…ABOUT CLARITY? Look at your own teeth and you will see small cracks, some discoloration and imperfections. Diamonds are a lot like teeth! They have internal imperfections like cracks, dots and spots that are called inclusions. They have external flaws such as naturals, nicks, pits and scratches that are called blemishes. Therefore, the more inclusions and blemishes a diamond has the lower the value …this is how they measure clarity. Each diamond is graded based upon these principles. FL: Flawless, meaning without any surface characteristics or internal imperfections. Extremely rare and very costly! IF: Internally Flawless with only minor external blemishes that can be polished away. VVS1 and VVS2: Very, very small inclusions that are difficult for a qualified observer to detect. VS1 and VS2: Very small inclusions visible only under magnification. Usually a good buy. SI1 and SI2: Small inclusions that are readily apparent under magnification, but not to the naked eye making them desirable. I1, I2 and I3: Imperfect grades in which the flaws may or may not be visible to the naked eye. Much lower in price and do not appreciate much in value. In summary, when purchasing a wedding ring –look at it as an investment in the future. Now you can see the “C ’s” (cut, color, clarity and carat) when it comes to shopping for a diamond. Do your homework, don’t be afraid to ask questions and consider more than just the price of the ring and terms of financing. Look at the shape and quality of the ring and pick the perfect setting to compliment it. Would you buy a $1000-$10,000 item without doing a little research into the purchase? Bring a copy of the Idaho Wedding Guide to assist you in making your decision or as a reference guide. In Idaho, there are a number of jewelers out there and they all want to help you find the perfect wedding ring. Good luck! By Greg Huff, Idaho Wedding Guide

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Photography

Photography Who you choose for your photographer is such an important decision. Don’t simply base your decision on price. Your pictures are so important and you will either have beautiful portraits that you love or snapshot-like photographs that you may regret for a long time. Remember, having a few amazing images is better than having a million bad ones. What really matters when picking your photographer is the feeling you get around him or her. You need to be comfortable and get along with the person, as you will be spending a lot of time together on the most important day of your life! They need to be flexible with your own ideas. Choose a photographer who will listen to and respect your ideas and wishes. Trust your instincts.

Experience matters Look at recent wedding pictures the photographer has taken. What is the photographer’s style? Remember that the wedding album should unfold like a storybook. Some photographers are known for formal poses, while others specialize in more candid, creative shots, and some can do both. Know what you want.

Find out

w If you can select the pictures you want. w How many proofs will be taken. w How many pictures will be included in the album. w Charge for additional prints. w Who the actual photographer will be. w If negative retouching is available. w When delivery of proofs and final prints will be. w What the charge is for photo sessions at additional settings. w Are they willing to travel to special places you want pictures at? Fees?

Be specific Be sure to discuss with your photographer the photos you want, so there is no misunderstanding. Bring samples of creative wedding photos you want from magazines or friend’s weddings. Decide and let the photographer know ahead of time when you want pictures taken. Taking pictures before the ceremony can save time, but ruin the tradition of the groom not seeing the bride beforehand.

Special Consideration Let the photographer know in advance of any special considerations, such as divorced or deceased parents. It is totally acceptable for you to give a written list to your photographer of who you want or do not want in you pictures.

Don’t Rush Allow enough time for the photography. Nothing is more frustrating to a professional photographer than being rushed and trying to do their best in catching the most important moments of your life. Ask the wedding party members to arrive at your reception 2 hours early for pictures. For LDS temple weddings, allow at least 2 hours between the ceremony and reception for photos.

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Choosing a Photographer

Getting caught up in the love, wonder and excitement of your wedding day most often means that the months of meticulous planning and the attention paid to every aspect of the decor will be largely overlooked by you on your wedding day. Brides often say that the day went by in a blur. Looking through your wedding images will reveal surprises, forgotten moments and small details. For this reason, it is important to put your trust in a photographer who will be able to capture your story, your way. But why go to the expense and time of hiring a professional photographer? After you are husband and wife, after the cake has been eaten and the bouquet has been tossed, your images will be all that remain to connect you to this one extraordinary moment in time. Finding a professional will ensure that the photographer understands that weddings are highly emotional and exciting events and they will know how to clearly capture that emotion in your images. A professional will also understand how to find the most flattering angle and position to help you look your best, how to direct without being bossy, and will have the experience necessary to reproduce in pictures, moments that will take your breath away. Choosing the right photographer can seem overwhelming. To ensure that your images reflect you as a couple consider what type of photography suits you: classic/ traditional, photojournalistic, or editorial. Would you prefer beautifully posed formal portraits (classic/traditional)? Or would artist candids (photojournalistic) be more your style? Perhaps both options seem great and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to have a mix (editorial) of both styles. Ask friends and family members for recommendations and look at websites from several different photographers. Find one that grabs you, captivates you and makes you want to look at every image they have displayed. Now set up a time to meet with that photographer. It is not enough to simply admire the work, you must also feel comfortable being with the person. From your engagement shoot to your farewell at the reception you will be spending a lot of time with your photographer and it is important that you are compatible. Once you have found a photographer that suits your style, be sure to provide a list of any images and requests you may have. Also, consider setting a flexible schedule for event/picture times on the wedding day. Having a schedule takes some of the pressure and stress off of you and your family by knowing that the photographer is keeping track of the time and events. Your wedding day will be one of the most amazing days of your life. Relax and have a good time, knowing that you have made a great choice to have your day preserved by someone qualified, talented and reliable. Congratulations and Best Wishes.

PHOTO BY HATTIE BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

Choosing A Photographer

By Hattie Bates

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Transportation

Transportation Getting yourself and your bridesmaids to the wedding is something you’ll want to plan for whether you have friends drive you or hire a transportation service. If you decide to have a limousine service, you can find them in a number of places: on-line, phone directories and from the list kept by the reception locations and wedding planners. It’s great if you can get a reference from someone you know. Ask the limousine service companies about their wedding packages which may include champagne, roses and the red carpet treatment. Also, ask what are the year(s) and make(s) of their various types of cars. If you’re looking for something unusual, tell them. Along with the cost and what’s included, ask for references. Charges may be a set price, hourly, or package. Most costs begin when the limo leaves its origination point and ends at its final departure point after you are dropped off. A 50% deposit is usually required as the time of booking. It may be non-refundable. Ask about their cancellation policies and about insurance liabilities. The balance of your contracted cost is usually due at the time you and your party are picked up. There is often a minimum rental time (3 hours is common). Don’t forget a gratuity for the driver(s). If your father is driving you, your mother may join you, or go in another car with your maid/matron of honor and bridesmaids.

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Videography

Be sure to capture the special moments in the most realistic way possible, VIDEO! Wedding videography is a growing trend in this area. The Wedding and Event Videographers Association (WEVA), an international professional group founded in the 1980s, commissioned a 2005 nationwide study to look at brides’ attitudes about videography both before and after their weddings. The brides were asked to rank videography on a personal “Top 10” list of wedding priorities. Before their weddings, only 50% of the brides listed videography as a Top 10 item. But, after their weddings the emphasis changed dramatically. A whopping 79% of the brides placed videography among their Top 10 items for wedding planning. Be sure to contact your local videographer to ask about pricing, it may not cost as much as you think. Here are a few good things to watch for when choosing your videographer. Personality. You want to find someone that is easy and fun to work with. Check with your videographer about the time schedule you have planned. See how flexible they will be in the event of last minute schedule changes. Find out if the videographer will incorporate your suggestions into the video. You want to make the video unique in its own way. Experience. Make sure that your videographer isn’t someone that started the company as a weekend hobby and uses an inexpensive and unreliable video camera. Generally, the more experienced the videographer, the better the video. A professional videographer will use professional equipment and it will show in the final quality of your video. Samples. One of the most important things to do to help you decide who to hire is to watch sample videos. Many videographers have samples on their websites. Watch an actual video from another bride and groom and not just a highlight video of several weddings combined. If possible, watch a video that was filmed at your wedding location. This will give you the best idea of what to expect for your video. Some videographers offer testimonials from other brides and their experiences. Take some time and read up on their feelings of the experience. Packages and Pricing. Find out what kind of packages your videographer offers. See if there is something that will fit in your budget and include all of the events that are most important to you. If the package price is out of your immediate budget, ask about payment plans. Nothing can bring back the feelings and details of your wedding like a wedding video. It is something that you will enjoy for your entire life. By Dave Webster, Pix & Flix Productions

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PHOTO BY PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN

Videography

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Index

A Alpine Jewelers, 1, 102, 124 Amber Alder Photography, 115 AmericInn, 89 Anna Roze Designs, 72 Announcements/Invitations, 20 Modern Printing, 24 MyIdahoinvitations.com, 21 WedAnnouncements.com, 22 B Billmans, 40 Black Swan Inn, 90 Bridal Attire & Formal Wear, 25 Hart’s Tux & Gowns, 26 Happily Ever After, 31 Margene’s Bridal, 27 Park Avenue Formal, 26 TheDressList.com, 29 Treasure’s Bridal & Tux, 30 Broulim’s, 41, 80 C Cake Creations, 38 Cakes, 32 Cake Creations, 38 Sugar Bakers, 33 Sugar Shell, The, 39 Teya’s Finishing Touch, 32 Canyon Crest, 48 Catering, 40 Billman’s, 40 Broulim’s, 41 Famous Dave’s BBQ, 46 Jakers Bar & Grill, 43 North Hi-Way Cafe, 42 O’Callahan’s Catering, 45 Red Lion Hotel, 44 Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, 84 Ceremony & Reception Sites, 47 Canyon Crest, 48 Grand Victorian, 58 Historic Shelton, 54, 55, 62 Joulet Wedding Center, 52 Juniper Hills Country Club, 60 PB&G’s, 49 Rose River Reception Center, 61

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Creative Decor & Flowers, 76 D

Destinations Inn, 90 E

E & N Photography, 118

Entertainment & DJ’s, 63 Mainstream Music, 65 Nina Mungar Harpist, 69 Sand Hill Radio, 70 Slumber Parties, 63 Eternal Rounds, 105 Eternite Salon, 87 Event Decorations & Rental, 71 Anna Roze Designs, 72 Events Connection, The, 71 Flowers at the Falls, 73 Signature Party Rental, 72 Wedding Chalet of Springfield, 73 Events Connection, The, 71 Extreme Luxury Travel, 91 F Famous Daves BBQ, 46 Fairfield Inn & Suites, 95 Farr’s Jewelry, 100 Finance & First Home, 97 ReMax Bebe Hitz, 98 Floral Classics, 81 Florists, 76 Broulims, 80 Creative Decor & Flowers, 76 Floral Classics, 81 Flowers at the Falls, 78 Rexburg Floral, 77 Suspended in Time, 82 Flowers at the Falls, 73, 78 G Generations Photography, 114 Grand Victorian, 58 H Handcast Treasure’s, 82 Hart’s Tux & Gowns, 26 Happily Ever After, 31

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Index

Hattie Bates Photography, 116 Health & Beauty, 83 Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, 84 Eternite Salon, 87 Inches-A-Weigh, 83 Metamorphosis, 85 Historic Shelton, 54, 55, 62 Honeymoon, Hotel & Travel, 88 AmericInn, 89 Black Swan Inn, 90 Destinations Inn, 90 Extreme Luxury Travel, 91 Fairfield Inn & Suites, 95 Sunrise Travel, 88 I Inches-A-Weigh, 83 J Jakers Bar & Grill, 43 Jensen Jewelers, 111, Back Cover Jewelry, 99 Alpine Jewelers, 1,102,124 Eternal Rounds, 105 Farr’s Jewelry, 100 Jensen Jewelers, 111, Back Cover Molinelli’s Jewelers, 108, 125 Joulet Wedding & Reception Center, 52 Juniper Hills Country Club, 60 M Mainstream Music, 65 Margene’s Bridal, 27 Metamorphosis Salon, 85 Modern Printing, 24 Molinelli’s Jewelers, 108, 125 MyIdahoinvitations.com, 21 N Nina Mungar Harpist, 69 North Hi-Way Cafe, 42

PB&G’s, 49 Photographique, 118 Photography, 113 Amber Alder Photography, 115 E & N Photography, 118 Generations Photography, 114 Hattie Bates Photography, 116 Photographique, 118 Pix & Flix Productions, 121 R Red Lion Hotel, 44 ReMax Bebe Hitz, 98 Rexburg Floral, 77 Rose River Reception Center, 61 Royal Ryd’s, 119 S Sand Hill Radio, 70 Signature Party Rental, 72 Slumber Parties, 63 Sugar Bakers, 33 Sugar Shell, The, 39 Sunrise Travel, 88 Suspended In Time, 82 T Teya’s Finishing Touch, 32 TheDressList.com, 29 Transportation, 119 Royal Ryd’s, 119 Treasure’s Bridal & Tux, 30 V Videography, 120 Pix & Flix, 121 W WedAnnouncements.com, 22 Wedding Chalet of Springfield, 73

O O’ Callahan’s Catering, 45 P Park Avenue Formal, 26

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