Forever Bridal 6

T h e

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

BEST MAN & MAID OF HONOR

101 2 Spring

HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

Tablescapes

t o H s ' t a h W t o N s ' What 1

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22 B EST MAN & MAID OF HONOR 101 YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 24 FARM TO FABLE

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THE DRESS WHAT'S HOT 12

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THE BIG DECISION SIT-DOWN DINNER VERSUS THE BUFFET

TABLESCAPES

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WHAT'S HOT, WHAT'S NOT FOR BRIDESMAIDS

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DEADLINES & DETAILS

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SPRING HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

30 WORRY LESS WITH WEDDING INSURANCE 32 HAIR & MAKEUP TRENDS 34 N ON-EDIBLE ADORNMENTS THAT TAKE THE CAKE! 36 THE WEDDING BUDGET

T h e

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

Managing Editor SUZANNE POLK FOX

Art Director JENNIFER CABALLERO

Editor LIZ MCGEHEE

Writers PATRICIA DANFLOUS MICHELLE ROBERT POCHE CHAD RUIZ

Creative Director DIANNE WALLER

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©2018 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC. • New Orleans, LA All rights reserved. • info@foxprintservices.com - V4

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s e p a c s e l b a T

By Liz McGehee

Whether you want a fairytale romance, tropical beaches or downhome country vibes, anything is possible with the right tablescape. This is especially true in the spring when color schemes transition from winter hues to summer shades offering an array of possibilities. Bling out your tables or follow this year’s table trend and dare to go bare. As 90’s country music icon Alison Krauss once said,“You say it best when you say nothing at all.” Whatever you choose for the big day, your tablescapes are sure to transport you and your guests to the reception of your dreams.

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No longer winter but not quite summer, spring is the perfect time to take the party outdoors. White table cloths and accessories brighten up any table and allow your accent colors as well as wood and metal elements to stand out.

Metallics and mirrored surfaces add sophistication and a bit of whimsy to any setting.Try reflective tables, metallic dishware or twinkle lights under tulle.

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Try a pared down wood look with a bright blue table runner, bold flowers, clear glassware and repurposed wine bottles as candleholders.

Bare wood and burlap, always the go-to for an outdoorsy, lakeside or barn wedding.

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n o i s i c e D THE BIG

SIT-DOWN DINNER VERSUS THE BUFFET

By Michele Robert Poche

PROS  The caterer knows how much food to order in advance thus there is less waste.  All guests are guaranteed seating (better for the elderly, pregnant, handicapped, etc.).  There is a more captive audience for toasts and speeches.

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CONS  Meal reservation cards must be coordinated and seating charts created in advance.  More servers are needed to accommodate all guests at once, which can increase the price.  Only two or three entrée options can be offered thus not all diners may be satisfied there’s a chance of running out or having waste.

Sit-dow n

A band or a DJ? Roses or lilies? Afternoon or evening?

Planning a wedding comes with many decisions. Among them is the choice between a sit-down dinner or a buffet at your reception. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. And since the catering bill often accounts for 50 percent of the wedding budget, you want to choose wisely.

PROS  Guests choose what, how much and when they eat.  Dietary considerations can be better accommodated.  Mingling and mixing of guests is encouraged.

CONS  Guests carrying their own plates may not be as elegant as you want.  Lines could form for the food.  There’s no advance food count, so there’s a chance of running out or having waste.

Buffet

AD WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Costs typically depend on the size of your guest list, what you serve and your caterer. Generally, the buffet is cheaper and requires less planning since you won’t have to pay for servers, waitstaff tips at the end of the night, response cards or place cards. If your party is on the smaller side, plated meals can still be very affordable. Some couples also opt for a traditional sit-down brunch, which will save money all around and feel more intimate. If money isn’t a barrier to you, a sit-down dinner makes it easy to plan out your reception activities in advance.

What's

Hot, Not

for Bridesmaids

By Suzanne Fox

The dress style may be different for everybody type, but the elegant choice of fabric this season is chiffon.

The garden wedding deserves a floral garden dress.

Simple wrap around style is a keeper and perfectly suited for after-hour cocktails as well as daytime parties.

From sophisticated to bohemian to country, muted colors like frost and champagne work well in every wedding.

Florals and shimmer are hitting the stage, not only on the bride but also on the bridesmaid. This bridal season, the hottest trends really can be worn again after the nuptials.

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Cascading ruffles, off-whites, pearls and elaborate beading are some of the trends you can expect to see walking down the aisle this spring. With tulle, flared skirts and sweetheart necklines, these visions pay homage to traditional gowns, but they’re far from your mother’s wedding dress.

s ’ t a h W , T HO t’s a h W NOT

By Liz McGehee

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Champagnes and nudes were trending last year. Now we’re seeing a rise in off-white and cream-colored gowns.

Gowns come with a creative spin this year with multilayers from the waist down and mismatched textures.

Sheer and illusion necklines, bodices and skirts aren’t going anywhere just yet. While full-bodied gowns are making a comeback, many brides still want a sleek, Grecian look. Pearl accessories (especially in the form of shoulder pads) and beading are still hot this season too.

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Some brides are trueing to tradition opting for more coverage with elaborate lace designs, sleeves and high necklines.

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Tiny white florals are vining their way onto the runway. From charming baby’s breath crowns to whimsical earrings and sleeves, flowers make the perfect accessory for any budding romance.

Use these subtly to create a soft, feminine look or make them into statement pieces.

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Deadlines etails &D

THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING. TO ENSURE SUCCESS — AND YOUR SANITY — THE KEY IS ORGANIZATION. WE’VE COMPILED A DETAILED CHECKLIST THAT PAYS SPECIAL ATTENTION TO TIME-SENSITIVE DEADLINES, SO YOU CAN CREATE A FOOLPROOF CALENDAR AND TO-DO LIST.

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12 months +  Select date, time and place.Then reserve venues!  Decide on wedding size and style.  Hire wedding consultant (if applicable) and create wedding website.  Shop for gown.  Begin guest list.

9-12 months  Research honeymoon destinations.  Book musicians, DJ, florist, photographer, videographer and limousines.  Order invitations.  Purchase gown and begin alterations.  Ask friends to be in wedding party and order bridesmaid dresses.

6-9 months  Finalize guest list and send save-the-date cards.  Book appointments for hair, nails and make-up.  Reserve attire for groom and groomsmen.  Order cake(s).  Purchase rings.

3-6 months  Secure bridal accessories (such as shoes, jewelry, garter and mementos).  Give musicians a list of songs you want them to play (or to avoid).  Make food choices with venue.

2 months  Mail invitations.

1 month  Give photographer a list of pictures you want taken.

1 week  Give final head count to reception venue.

The day before  Hold rehearsal ceremony and dinner.  Deliver everything to site and work out any kinks.  Give marriage license to officiant.  Present gifts to wedding party, parents and any other honored guests.

The day of  Give rings and officiant’s fee to best man.  Designate liaison for photographer to ensure all necessary pictures are taken.  EXHALE! NOTE: Larger cities have long waiting lists for wedding vendors so you may need to act sooner!

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Best Man and Maid of Honor 101

YOUR

s e i t i l i b i s n o p s e R

By Michele Robert Poche

Every wedding is different so these duties can vary. Following is a simple list of guidelines that includes, but is not limited to, these traditional wedding party roles.

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MAID OF HONOR C oordinate bridesmaids with dress fittings, parties, day of activities, etc. H elp when asked. Address invitations, cake tasting, etc. H ost bridal shower and bachelorette party with other maids. A ttend all parties and rehearsals. A rrange veil throughout ceremony. H old bouquet while vows are exchanged.  Sign marriage license. D ance and be photographed with wedding party. M ake sure bride eats and drinks at reception. H elp her change at reception and store dress.  L end an ear, shoulder or funny bone when needed.

BEST MAN  C oordinate groomsmen with formal wear fittings, parties, day of activities, etc. H ost bachelor party with other groomsmen.  Attend all parties and rehearsals. H old rings and marriage license during ceremony.  Sign marriage license. G ive officiant sealed envelope containing his/her fee (provided by groom). D ance and be photographed with wedding party.  Give first toast to bride and groom. C oordinate the decorating of the getaway car with help of other groomsmen and bridesmaids.  L end an ear, funny bone or even cash when needed.

BEST MAN Help when asked.

Planning honeymoon, arranging transportation, etc.

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MARRY IN CHERRY.

Cherry blossoms are traditional yet different enough from oldfashioned bouquets to stand out. They also symbolize renewal and the cycle of life, making them the perfect flower to represent spring.

Whatever buds you choose, both you and your bouquet are sure to come into bloom on the big day.

FARM TO FABLE

By Liz McGehee

You’ve picked your groom. Now, it’s time to pick your flowers.

The days of uniform roses, kempt leaves and bare stems are gone.

This season is all about handpicked florals and fresh-cut greenery.

Try something out of the ordinary and a little less contained.

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THINK PINK. From dusty rose to peachy pastel, pink varieties are taking over spring. Add a touch of fuchsia or incorporate salmon tones to make your flowers stand out. Bougainvillea come in pale shades of pink, peach and purple, making these Brazil natives a great choice for pink arrangements.

HOMEGROWN. Create your very own fairytale wedding by adding greenery from your home into your bouquet, or you can find a nearby florist who works with local growers to create your arrangements. Eucalyptus, ferns, grasses, mint, succulents, small tree branches and vines are just a few of the greens you can use to make your bouquets stand out.

BERRY HERBAL. Berries and herbs add beautiful pops of color, texture and that handpicked look to your bouquet. Bonus: they release soothing fragrances. Add lavender to your bouquet for a calming effect.

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2 SPRING

Honeymoon Destinations

By Liz McGehee

Rio

iro, e n a J e d Rio Brazil Named ‘ River of January’ by Portuguese colonizers in 1565, Rio de Janeiro is home to the world’s biggest urban forest, bluest skies and largest Carnival in the world. Enjoy top-notch cuisine, hit Copacabana’s crescent-shaped beach, visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue or take in the legal street art and Portuguese inspired mosaic-tiled promenades on a long walk. February is the perfect time of year to celebrate with your new spouse.

Rio

C.R.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica C.R.

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If you want to escape the tail end of winter, Costa Rica is both beautiful and affordable. Whether you want to zip line next to a volcano, go white water rafting, surf or laze about on the beach, this location has something for everyone. Less than 30 minutes from the Arenal Volcano, zip lining–and rafting and only a few hours by bus to the Nicoya Peninsula, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Playa Hermosa and Puerto Viejo–La Fortuna is a great central location for your stay.

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WORRY LESS WITH

g Weddin ce

insurance policy reimburses you most, if not all of your lost money. And it’s affordable! One-time premiums for wedding insurance policies range from $120 up to $1,000 depending on coverage limits.

Today, the cost of a wedding averages somewhere near $35,000, according to the widely popular TheKnot.com.

Insuring a $35,000 wedding only costs around $250.

Many sites like WedSafe.com and WedSure.com feature easy quoting tools that allow users to mix and match coverage based on wedding budgets. Also, it’s a good idea to discuss wedding insurance with each of your wedding vendors and venues. Some carry their own version of liability insurance and could direct you to a local insurance agent.

The odds of a wedding catastrophe are slim but why risk it when wedding insurance is so affordable and easily accessible? If you ask me, $250 is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Insuran

G

By Chad Ruiz

room experienced chest pains and went to hospital. Newly diagnosed heart condition forced him to postpone wedding. Amount reimbursed through event cancellation coverage – $28,907.45,” reported by WedSafe.com.

“Reception site was sold and shut down. Amount reimbursed through event cancellation coverage – $13,367.38.”

It’s the stuff of nightmares. You spend your waking moments planning, scheduling, rehearsing and mailing items for your wedding. With only a handful of days remaining until the biggest day of your life, disaster strikes. Whether it’s a natural or manmade disaster, calamities happen.

According to longtime insurer Travelers Insurance Company, between 2011 and 2015, 30 percent of the costliest wedding insurance claims involved issues with vendors. While another 29 percent of claims resulted from illness and 16 percent stemmed from weather-related cancellations.

Wedding Insurance Softens the Blow Wedding insurance, also referred to as wedding cancellation insurance, protects the money you spend on the Big Day. Things like deposits (yes, even the nonrefundable), costs of relocating and rescheduling and even the full cost of the event and vendors falls within the protection of wedding insurance.

If the event cancels or postpones for reasons like inclement weather, vendor no-shows, damaged property, theft of gifts and photos, illness and so much more, the

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Ombré Something blue? That time-honored touch to your wedding day could be a streak of blue in your hair. Pops of color are le dernier cri, creating just a splash to highlight wedding whites. If you don’t need blue, consider a color that complements your bouquet or matches your bridesmaids’ dresses. Stylists are also suggesting an ombre look for an individualized, not too bold, look. Shades of brown, blonde, red and even fuchsia create a contemporary touch that translates well for post-wedding festivities from honeymoon to work.

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HAIR& MAKEUP TRENDS

By Patricia F. Danflous

Take a trip to the wild side as you glide down the aisle. Be bright and bold with the hottest eye colors. This year's trend includes a combination of colors, without much of a transition from one color to another. Two or three stripes of exciting color can make your eyes stand out. Have fun experimenting with combinations of bright turquoise, pink and purple colors or consider complementary blues and oranges. Subtle hues including diverse shades of pink and rose are also trending this season. All eyes will be on you on your wedding day so, let them look at your eyes.

Long, lovely lashes are always in style and always a challenge. No matter what colors you choose for your shadow, lush lashes are significant for a wedding day glow. Forget about fumbling with adhesives, try the latest in false lashes—tiny magnets that lock lashes into place. If you are on a budget or don’t have the patience to apply false eyelashes, try one of the new mascaras, which are available in a wide range of standard and bold colors and lengthen and thicken.

Or, if you want the ultimate lashes, splurge and include lash extensions as part of your bridal makeup session.

Sparkle with metallics. You don’t want to look like an Olympic medal on your wedding day, but you can be a romantic champion with a metallic makeup theme. Golds, silvers, bronzes and coppers offer a subtle glow when used on the eyes, lips and face.

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ADORNMENTS THAT

TAKE THE CAKE!

By Michele Robert Poche

Often considered the centerpiece of a wedding, your cake reflects the style and theme of your whole event. It should be featured prominently in a well-lit, centralized area for all to admire.

Why not make it your own with a few personal touches?

CHARMS A Victorian tradition, silver charms tied to ribbons are inserted into the cake. Bridesmaids are invited to each pull out a charm symbolizing her future (ring = next to marry, etc.) String them each on a chain as a unique memento for the maids

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Mary & Joe

FLOWERS Fresh flowers bring a natural authenticity to your display with bursts of vibrant color as well as a delicate fragrance

GEODES Colorful crystals, amethyst and quartz create a fun piece of art for your guests to admire.

HEIRLOOMS Honor your parents’ weddings by creating a unique topper that includes photographs or keepsakes (handkerchief, cloth swatch, cufflinks) from their events. Display it in your curio or china cabinet along with the other pieces.

BRIDE & GROOM Opt for the traditional figurines of the 1950s or the modern design that incorporates shared interests and cultural backgrounds. Integrate it in your table setting on every anniversary.

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The

g n i d d e W get Bud Invitations & Stationery Save the Date cards Invitations, Reply Cards Postage Programs Menu Cards Place Cards Thank You Cards Calligraphy Miscellaneous TOTAL Bridal Attire & Beauty Gown Veil / Headpiece Alterations Shoes Lingerie Accessories Jewelry Makeup Hair Nails Miscellaneous TOTAL Groom’s Attire Tuxedo / Suit Shoes Cuff Links Grooming Accessories Miscellaneous TOTAL

Ceremony Location fee Officiant fee Marriage License Rings Music Miscellaneous TOTAL

Reception Location fee Food Drink Rentals Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Favors Music Security Gratuities Miscellaneous

TOTAL Flowers Ceremony Reception Decorations Bridal Bouquet Attendant Bouquets Boutonnieres Flower Girl Parents & Grandparents Miscellaneous

TOTAL

Photography Photography Videography Albums Miscellaneous

TOTAL Transportation Limousine(s) Miscellaneous

TOTAL Gifts Wedding Party Parents Bride & Groom Miscellaneous

TOTAL Honeymoon Airline tickets Accommodations Car Rentals Food Entertainment Excursions Souvenirs Passports Clothing Miscellaneous TOTAL Miscellaneous Wedding Consultant Gown Preservation TOTAL TOTAL BUDGET:

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