A special supplement to the Isanti - Chisago County Advertiser
Wedding February 2012
Bells
by Regan Kohler editor@countystar.com The wealth of choices for weddings has made Majestic Oaks Golf Club in Ham Lake a wonderful destination. The event center offers many choices for settings, including three large banquet rooms and two outdoor ceremony sites, a broad menu, full access to dressing rooms, and a venue for many different activities for the wedding party. The aesthetics One site in particular that makes couples say, “I want my wedding at Majestic Oaks” is the bridge. Sales manager Jacki Whitman said the bridge is “a very original, unique area” that leads out to an island peninsula filled with willow trees and fountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for photographs,. Couples can choose the Traditional Site with a gazebo and archway, or the Contemporary Site with a pergola, and Whitman said the grounds are situated with a number of beautiful backdrops for pictures. The party For indoor weddings or receptions, Majestic Oaks offers the Majestic, Fireside or Cedar rooms. Each has its own traits,
but the Majestic Room is by far the most popular, Whitman said, with its chandeliers, built-in dance floor, full-service bar and a walk-out deck overlooking the golf course It seats up to 300 people. The Fireside Room also has a deck, and features a two-sided fireplace. It seats up to 200 guests. “The Fireside Room has a beautiful receiving area,” Whitman said, adding that her daughter was married there. The club has stages that can be brought in if the couple is having a live band. The rooms are perfect for gift openings the day after, she said. The food Majestic Oaks offers a two-page menu, which can be found online, with almost anything the bride and groom desire. One bride described the food as “better than a 5 rating.” The most popular items, she said, are the prime rib and a delicious Italian meal, chicken saltimbocca with prosciutto ham and provolone cheese. The menu can be tailored for guests who, for example, are vegetarian or require gluten-free meals. “Our chef has been very wonderful about customizing things,” Whitman said.
A buffet can also be set up, which Whitman said is “great for Friday-night weddings.” Rehearsal dinners are being held at Majestic Oaks more often, Whitman added, as “they’re already here that evening.” Let’s not forget the piece de resistance - the wedding cake. Majestic Oaks works with a number of vendors to offer as many choices as possible for the cake. If the bride and groom opt for the Buttercream Co., Whitman said the cakecutting fee is waived. The countdown to happiness Perfection takes time, as anyone who’s been in a wedding knows, and Majestic Oaks has fully equipped facilities on-site for the wedding preparations. The party can use the dressing rooms as early in the day as they would like. They can have hors d’oeuvres brought in by a highly trained staff; Whitman said the club’s wedding staff are often the same in the events leading up to the wedding, to make service as personalized as possible. “We really make it very stress-free,” she said. While the excitement builds, the guests can enjoy a round of golf, or watch sports games on
television in the bar area, or just relax in the dressing rooms with champagne and strawberries. Post-wedding, the club offers shuttle service to two nearby hotels. The preparations Brides often don’t realize all the small details go into planning a wedding, which can be a little overwhelming, to say the least. At Majestic Oaks, they offer packages, which can be found online at www. majesticoaks.com, that include the dressing rooms,
rehearsal and setup, and decorations. There is no limit on what people can add onto their weddings. “If you want to bring extra flowers in, you can,” Whitman said. Majestic Oaks is at the ready for Plan B (Bad Weather), if the wedding was set for outdoors. Whitman said if this happens, they have the benefit of the banquet rooms, an indoor archway, and the option to hold off on a final decision (to see if the weather clears up)
until an hour before the wedding. All Majestic Oaks needs is a window of time, Whitman said. “They’ll do everything they can to get them outside,” she said of the club’s staff. The club can accommodate all different seasons - “We do weddings all winter long,” Whitman said - and any day, too. She sees weekday weddings every so often, and at least once a month there is a Sunday wedding, which happens usually when Monday is a
Photo by Majestic Oaks
The highly popular Majestic Room features a walk-out deck overlooking the golf cour se, beautiful decor , a b uilt-in dance f loor, full-ser vice bar and seating for 280 guests.
Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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Make your wedding Majestic
Photo by Majestic Oaks
The Traditional Site has a gazebo, cobblestone path and seasonal flowers. holiday. Many couples found told us the food was the Memorable marriages happiness on dating web- best wedding food they Whitman’s 12 years sites, and one just hap- ever had,” said Megan with Majestic Oaks have pened to set up their first (last names are withheld allowed her the opportu- date meeting in the Ma- for privacy). nity to witness many wed- jestic Oaks’ restaurant. “Everyone was helpful, dings. Naturally, they returned polite and professional,” “We’ve had to many to the scene for their wed- said Angie. “Thank you unique ones,” she said. ding. all, the wedding was a One wedding, an ar“Those two were very success and you made it ranged marriage in which fun to work with,” Whit- happen!” the bride and groom only man said. To arrange your wedmet for the first time for Recent bridal testimo- ding with Majestic Oaks, half an hour in the week nials speak highly of their call Angela Seitzer or leading up to the wedding. experiences at Majestic Jacki Whitman at 763Photo by Amazing Portraits “It was so exciting,” Oaks. 755-2140, or check out The g rounds a t M ajestic O aks f eature s o m any o ptions f or t he w edshe said. “I think things “We loved the beautiful the website at www.mading party photography settings. like that are very special.” atmosphere, and everyone jesticoaksgc.com.
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
Announcing Your Engagement You’re engaged and you want the whole world to know! Rather than just shouting it from rooftops, here are some more effective ways to announce your engagement, and the etiquette of whom to tell first. Immediately After Your Engagement Start off by telling those closest to you that you’re engaged. Your Children: If you have any children
from a previous marriage, they should be the first to know. Hopefully, you’ve prepared them for this possibility. Consider that this may be hard news for them, and reassure them that your new spouse won’t replace them in your heart. Your Parents: Typically, the bride’s parents are told first, then the grooms immediately afterwards. While a visit in person is nice, if your par-
ents live far away, over the phone will work just fine. Both of you should be present. Grandparents, Siblings, and Other Close Relatives: Even if you want many of your friends and families to be surprised all at once, consider who would be hurt to not know immediately. You can tell them all at once at a family dinner, or simply tell them by
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phone. Your Close Friends: A few phone calls will do here, unless you want to surprise everyone and tell them all at once. As Soon As You’re Ready for the Rest of the World To Know Decide if you want to mail announcements to your friends and family, publish an announcement in your local newspaper or announce it as a surprise at an engagement party. Publish an Announcement in Your Local Newspaper: Start off by calling to ask if they have any guidelines, deadlines, fees, or regulations about announcements. See if they accept pictures, if that’s something that interests you, and ask if pictures must be black & white or color. (Make sure you put your name on the back, and include a selfaddressed stamped envelope so the photo can be returned to you.). If they don’t give you strict guidelines, follow etiquette’s lead: Typically, announcements include information on the two of you, including career and education credentials, and your parents names. If your parents live in a dif-
ferent town, you should also include their hometowns. There’s no need to include the wedding date, and some purposefully omit it, as they don’t want to be targeted by burglars who will thus know when they’ll be out of the house. You might choose to say instead something like “A fall wedding is planned,” which helps diffuse the millions of “So, when’s the wedding” questions you inevitably get. Read the sample wordings below. Announce Your Engagement at a Party: One of the most fun ways to spread the news! You and your fiancé will get the joy of seeing everyone’s faces when they learn you are engaged, and the fun of an engagement party without the awkwardness of asking for gifts. Make sure that you don’t invite anyone to the party who won’t be invited to the wedding, and don’t do it at a someone else’s event (such as a birthday party)where they might feel upstaged.d Create a Wedding Website: The most modern way to do it! Many companies offer easy-to-create personal websites that will help you keep guests updated on the
details of your wedding. Once you’ve created a site, you can send an email letting friends and family know the URL. This is a very informal way to announce your engagement, and has many of the same limitations that a printed announcement does, plus the added disadvantage that it will omit guests who don’t own a computer. I suggest that if you create a wedding website, you also announce it in a more traditional way. Mailing Formal Engagement Announcements: This is a very traditional way of announcing your engagement, but it’s one that should be used cautiously. You’ll need to be sure that anyone who receives an engagement announcement will also be invited to the wedding, and that it won’t be mistaken for an invitation. Still, if the idea of beautiful cards sharing your good news is too delicious to resist, go to your local stationery store. You can word them however you wish, but typically wording is similar to what appears in a newspaper announcement. If you include your wedding date, it can double as a save-the-date card.
Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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Your Wedding Checklist: 10 to 12 months before your wedding How to Announce Your Engagement ____Tell your parents, important family members, and close friends the good news! ____You might also want to announce your engagement in the newspaper, on a wedding website with an email sent out to all your friends, or in the most traditional way, with mailed engagement announcements ____Have an engagement party, if you’d like ____Envision the tone of your wedding: Formal or casual? Day or evening? Religious or secular? ____Consider having a wedding theme, which will help pull together the style, look, and feel of your wedding ____Choose your wedding colors, which will add visual unity. ____Set your budget ____Decide who will pay for the wedding. Will your parents cover it all? Can you contribute? How will expenses be split?
caterers, and musicians. ____Arrange for a tasting with your caterer Your Wedding Checklist: 8 to 10 months before your wedding ____Shop for and order your wedding dress and accessories, including veil, gloves and shoes ____Sign a contract with your wedding caterer ____Book wedding florist and choose arrangements ____Book your musicians and/or DJ for both ceremony and reception ____Select and confirm your wedding photographer (and your videographer, if you’re using one.)
____Select and reserve your ceremony and reception sites ____Hire a wedding consultant, if you’re using one ____Choose and book your wedding officiant ____Choose bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers ____Meet with florists,
____Examine your beauty regimen ____If your caterer isn’t doing it for you, reserve any rental equipment you’ll need, including dishes, tables, chairs, linens, tents ____Register for gifts ____Select your wedding cake designer, and order your wedding cake ____Arrange wedding transportation ____Order stationery ____Select a calligrapher, if you’re using one
____Look into wedding insurance and decide if it’s a good option for you
____Select the groom’s tuxedo or other attire, what the groomsmen will wear, and arrange to purchase or rent
____Plan your honeymoon
____Purchase your wedding rings
____Shop for and order your bridesmaid dresses
____Book wedding night accommodations and accommodations for outof-town guests
____If you’re making your own wedding favors, start doing so now.
____Start your guest list ____Select date and time. Have backup dates in mind, in case a key element is unavailable.
____Start planning your rehearsal dinner. Give the host(s) your guest list
____Meet with wedding cake designers or bakers and arrange for a tasting (Yum!) Your Wedding Checklist: Four to six months before your wedding ____Send save-the-date announcements or call out of town guests to let them know the final date, time, and location of the wedding. ____If you’re purchasing wedding favors, do so now
____Buy gifts for your wedding party, parents, and each other. ____If you’re changing into “going away outfits” before you leave the reception, purchase those now
terer ____Meet with your officiant to discuss the wedding ceremony ____Write your wedding vows ____Attend any bridal showers ____Mail your wedding invitations ____Think about your wedding hair and makeup - If you’re doing your own, try out hairstyles, purchase any extra makeup, think about having a “makeover party” with your girlfriends. ____Book your hairstylist and/or makeup artist, if you’re using them. Meet with each of them to experiment with styles and colors ____Schedule your wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner ____If your state requires it for a marriage license, make blood test appointments ____If you’re going to change your name, complete those documents ____Send wedding announcements to the Kanabec County Times or the Pine City Pioneer Your Wedding Checklist: The month of your wedding
Your Wedding Checklist: Two to three months before your wedding
It’s finally here! There’s just a few more things to do to make sure everything’s perfect
____Give a list of “Must Take” photographs to your wedding photographer
____Apply for your marriage license.
____Discuss your wedding menu with your ca-
____Have your final gown fitting. It’s helpful to have a bridesmaid with you to learn how to bustle
your train and fasten any tricky buttons (and help you go to the bathroom, if you’ve got a big wedding dress!) ____Check with your bridesmaids and groomsmen to make sure they’ve gotten their attire, confirm arrival times, and answer any last minute questions ____Contact your vendors (caterer, officiant, cake baker, photographer, videographer, florist, musicians, transportation, hotels) to confirm arrival and delivery times. ____Write and print your wedding program ____Create welcome baskets or bags for out-oftown guests ____Send change-of-address information to post office ____Write thank you cards as you receive wedding gifts ____Ask your mother or maid of honor to contact any guests who have not RSVP’d
____Arrange for a plant waterer/pet sitter/babysitter while you are on your honeymoon ____Pick up your wedding dress ____Attend your bachelor party or bachelorette party, if you’re having them ____Send your travel plans and contact information to a family member and your house sitter (in case of emergency) ____Finalize chart
seating
Your Wedding Checklist: The Day Before Your Wedding ____Do something to relax and enjoy the company of your out-of-town friends ____Assign responsibilities to your wedding party (handing out corsages and boutonnieres, greeting and seating guests, checking on vendors) ____Confirm wedding day transportation
Your Wedding Checklist: One to Two Weeks Ahead
____Have a manicure and pedicure or other pre-wedding spa pampering.
____Arrange seating plan, and write place cards
____Give your wedding party gifts
____Give your final head count to your caterer, and confirm any last minute details
____Rehearse ceremony
____Write toasts for the rehearsal dinner and reception
Your Wedding Checklist: Day of the Wedding
____Try on your wedding shoes, and wear them on carpeted surfaces around the house
____Give thank you gifts to your parents
____Hold the rehearsal dinner
____Enjoy your wedding!
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
Top Tips for Perfect Wedding Day Beauty Want to look perfect on your wedding day? Here are five easy tips for wedding day beauty, including product recommendations and helpful hints. Use waterproof eye makeup. Most brides cry at their weddings. Even if you don't think you're the crying type, with so many waterproof products out there, why take a
chance? Use a long-lasting lipstick. When they first came out, most were dry and not suitable for a day-filled with close-ups and endless congratulatory kisses. But the new generation wised up with separate color and moisturizer. Apply the color once at the beginning of the
day, and remoisturize a couple of times to keep lips luscious and pictureperfect. My favorites are the Cover Girl Outlast All-day Lipcolor. Practice several times as it can be tricky to apply the color evenly and perfectly. It's hard to remove, so you'll want to get it right on the first application.
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Employ a "spot checker". This could be your maid of honor or another person whose makeup style is similar to your own (your mother is another good candidate.) Ask them to keep an eye on you and let you know if you need a touch up. They might also do you the favor of stashing your lipstick in their purse for
easy access. Stash backups Stake out the bathrooms or changing facility at the venue. Stash an emergency kit including power to beat down shiny noses, clear nail polish to repair stocking runs, a hairbrush, hairspray, lipstick, and a sewing kit, along with anything else you think you or your brides-
maids might need. Do a test run Make sure you test out beauty products several times – you wouldn't want to find out the morning of your wedding that you're allergic! Relax! A relaxed bride is a beautiful bride. A wedding succeeds as long as you end up married at the end of the day. Every thing else is just gravy.
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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Over the course of their lifetimes, many people will be wedding guests on several occasions. During the height of wedding season, weddings can run into one another, as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies. Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas. Who hasn't attended a wedding that seems formulaic? The couple enters, they do their spotlight dance, there's food, a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting. Guests may actually be able to predict what's coming next. While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition, that doesn't mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out. Here are several ideas you can introduce into your wedding to add something special to the reception. Skip the big entrance. Those who were kind
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enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple. Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite, mingle with your guests from start to finish. So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests, the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat. Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you don't have to make that big entrance from behind closed doors. Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together. Dance to an upbeat number. Guests are expecting a slow, sappy tune. What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun. If you haven't mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again, feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other. Encourage couples to dance together. It's often customary for the bridal
party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance. However, that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids. Instead, don't have assigned partners. Rather, encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose. Swap the garter/bouquet toss for something more meaningful. If you're part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite, there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration -- ones that don't single out the singletons who haven't yet found their special someones. Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration. Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests. Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
wedding. Spending more money doesn't necessarily mean guests will have a better time. If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary, find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party. It could be a flambe presentation, a chocolate or candy bar, a carving station with your all-time favorite food (even if that's PB&J), or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth. Hire a live performer. Although it's hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist, unless you're cousins with Celine Dion, chances are she won't be available to sing "My Heart Will Go On" at your reception. However, a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide. Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer, like a bagpiper, as an added
measure of entertainment for guests. Let them eat ... cookies? Some people just don't like cake. Therefore, why should a couple have to cut a seventiered white confection? Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo. A pyramid of cream puffs, stacks of brownies, a cookie castle, or cereal-cake concoctions can work. Some bakeries will decorate a "dummy" styrofoam cake, and then you c a n serve
apple pie a la mode, if you desire. Stage a costume switch. Let's face it, dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina. As the bride, have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception. It will also add some variety to your wedding photos.
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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Top 10 Rules on Shopping for an Engagement Ring If things go right, you’ll only be buying one engagement ring in your lifetime. But an engagement ring is a big investment. With your lack of experience, how are you going to make sure you find one that your sweetheart likes but is still a wise purchase? Follow these ten steps, and you’re sure to find the perfect engagement ring. 1. Determine Your Budget When a guy’s shopping for an engagement ring, salespeople often do a sneaky thing – they make him think that the amount of his love is tied to how much he spends on a ring. Better to figure out how much you can afford to spend before you step foot in a store. The standard rule is two months salary – but – this is also a rule that the diamond industry created! However it’s still a decent place to start, but then figure out your per-
sonal budget. 2. Pay Attention You’re going to have to make a lot of choices – platinum or gold? Modern or traditional? Flashy or understated? It’s easier if you’ve done your homework beforehand. Look at the jewelry your sweetheart wears on a daily basis – if it’s all silver with intricate designs – look for a platinum engagement ring with intricate designs (often called filigree). If it’s just a few heavy gold pieces, well, then go in that direction. 3. Choose a Stone While jewelers will sell you a preset ring, you can often get a better deal if you choose the diamond separately. It helps if you know what shape your sweetheart wants – round, pear, marquis, etc. The most classic shape is a round solitaire. More homework – read The Four Cs of Diamond Buying.
You’ll thank me later. Another money saving tip – look for a diamond with high color and cut, but with slightly lower clarity. Make sure you look at the stone with a jeweler’s loupe (like a magnifying glass) – but most flaws (or “inclusions”) can barely be seen even with a loupe. 4. Choose the Setting After you’ve got your stone, then comes the setting. You could go for simple with a solitaire setting, or you could add filigree, extra side stones, and other details. You can choose gold, white or rose gold, platinum, or even titanium. 5. Maximize Your Budget If your intended is always talking about huge diamond engagement rings, but two months of your salary wouldn’t buy a Big Mac, you’re going to have to stretch the budget. Ask for a stone with more surface area – it won’t
sparkle as much but it will look bigger. Ask for stones that are slightly less than the next carat (0.8 instead of 1 or 1.9 instead of 2) – the almost indiscernible difference can add up to big savings. Instead of a diamond solitaire engagement ring, consider a less expensive center gemstone (such as tourmaline, blue topaz, sapphire) flanked by two small diamonds. Choose white gold instead of platinum. And consider an antique engagement ring. 6. Get a Buddy Don’t go into a jewelry store alone. They’re scary places full of way too many choices. If you can, bring your sweetheart’s best friend or mom along to help you choose. But if you’re worried they’ll spill the beans, bring a trusted buddy of yours. Make sure they have taste, or you’ll be trying to pro-
pose with a ringpop. Also, assuming they like the person you’re buying it for, this is a great moment to bond with your parents and get their advice. 7. Think About Bringing Your Sweetheart With You You’ll lose the element of surprise, but you’ll be sure that she likes her engagement ring. More and more couples are doing it this way. 8. Get a Quality Jeweler Ask for recommendations from friends and family. My advice is to stick to the mom and pop jewelers and try to avoid the national chains – they often sacrifice quality for mass marketing. But make sure the store is accredited by the Jewelers of America or is a member of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Before you buy, find out what the return policy is so that you can exchange
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it if you didn’t do your homework properly. 9. Plan Ahead You may not be able to just walk out of a jewelry store with a ring. Not only will you need to save up for it, but depending on what you order it could take a couple weeks for them to set the stone, do any engraving, or even custom design your ring. So if you want to propose on a certain date, make sure you start working on the ring early. 10. Get it In Writing Would you buy a house without an inspection? No? Well then don’t buy a diamond without an independent diamond-grading report from the GIA or the American Gem Society. It should include the 4 c’s of color, cut, clarity and carat, as well as the shape and size. And, like your house, don’t forget to get the ring insured.
32 years of experience
• Wedding Cakes • Wedding Cake Tops • Bread and Buns • Deli & Salad Choices available in bulk options We want your wedding day to be perfect.
Michelle Lundeen – Serving Buyers and Sellers for 11 years! Traditional sales • Foreclosures and short sales • Bank owned/ REO properties • HUD homes CERTIFIED DISTRESSED PROPERTY EXPERT®
Herman's Bakery, Deli & Coffee Chop
Michelle Lundeen 763.300.2728 www.michellelundeen.com
130 South Main Street • Cambridge • 763-689-1515
Congratulations Brides & Grooms! Receive a Complimentary Dinner for Two! Any Friday eveving from 5-9pm. Northern Lights Ballroom & Banquet Center
~ Reservations Required ~ Please call ahead for seating and to tour this magnificent new facility! (320) 369-4622
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Wedding Affair Sunday, March 4, 2012 • 11am-4pm Mestads Fashion Runway Show 3pm
"We Do" WEDDING RECEPTIONS
Let us do everything for your reception! We will plan with you to make this a very special & stress free day to share with family and friends. • Banquet Facilities for up to 325 • Many Buffet or Plated Dinner Menus • Room Charge Included in Meal • Full Service Bar • Dance Floor • Band & DJ Referral
404 Fire Monument Rd. at I-35 Exit 183, Hinckley 320-384-6174 www.tobies.com
Northern Lights Ballroom & Banquet Center
~ FREE Admission ~
Northern Lights Ballroom & Banquet Center, Inc. 10376 112th Ave. NW, Milaca, MN 56353 • 320-369-4622
For Wedding Receptions, Groom’s Dinners, Showers, Gift Opening, Anniversaries and more... call 320-384-6174
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
Marriage Proposal Dos and Don'ts Tips for the Perfect Marriage Proposal - Asking Your Girlfriend to Marry You Before your big marriage proposal, you’re sure to be nervous, and wonder if you’re doing it in the right way. Before you get down on one knee, read these dos and don’ts of marriage proposals. Do: Do Test the Waters Before you propose, the two of you should talk about the possibility of getting married. Make sure it’s something that you both want, and agree on major issues such as children. You don’t want her to be taken completely off guard, as such a proposal is almost certainly guaranteed to elicit only a hesitating yes, if not a, “I’ll have to think about it.� Do Make it a Surprise Even though you have discussed getting married, the marriage proposal itself should still be a surprise. Find a moment and a way that she
won’t be suspecting. Do Be Prepared Saying, “Will you marry me?� is a huge deal, and one that leaves many proposers completely tongue-tied. So practice! It might feel silly, but say the words out loud a few times. You might also write down exactly what you’re going to say, to make sure you come off as smooth and confident. Do Find The Right Engagement Ring Since wearing an engagement ring is a lifetime commitment, make sure it’s the right style. You might find an opportunity to window shop for rings when you are walking past a store, or bring it up in conversation. You can also ask her mother or best friend to help choose the ring. Do Know if She Wants to Pick the Engagement Ring Most brides want their proposal to include an en-
gagement ring, but others are very particular about their jewelry, and want to be part of the buying/designing process. Do Talk to Her Parents We’ve come a long way from when women were property who needed their father’s permission, yet, there is still something nice and respectful about asking for the parents’ blessing. Do Pick a Personal Spot Think about your favorite romantic places -- choose a meaningful spot to pop the question. It could be as simple as in your living room, or as complicated as whisking her away for a weekend in Paris. Just don’t ask her in a supermarket aisle! Do Be Creative Incorporate your personality, favorite things, foods etc. into the proposal. Make it memorable rather than a cookie cutter proposal. Do Drop to One Knee
EVENT
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It’s not 1950, but there is something so charming and romantic about a man on one knee asking the love of his life to marry him. Even if you’re not a traditional guy, it will add to the seriousness and lovingness of the proposal. Do Tell Her Why You Want to Marry Her Don’t just utter those 4 little words, tell her why she’s the one for you, what marriage means to you, and what your hopes for the future are. You might say something like “My life has never and could never be the same after I met you. You’ve made me more joyful, more stable, and more inspired. I can’t picture the rest of my life without you by my side. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?� Do Share the News Take a moment to reflect on your engagement, but bring along a cell phone or calling card for sharing the good news. Don’t: Don’t Make it Public If script-writers are to be believed, every wedding proposal takes place in front of a thousand people. But unless she’s
said she wants a splashy proposal, make it intimate and personal thing. Most brides would prefer to have that magical moment be just the two of you – after all, you’ve got the rest of your lives to tell other people about your marriage but you’ve only got one engagement moment. Don’t Hide the Engagement Ring in Food I hate to say it, (as I’m sure there are some readers who were planning to do just this) but hiding the engagement ring in food is a tired idea. It’s been in a thousand movies and TV shows, and you won’t win any points for creativity. Even worse, you may end your romantic proposal with a trip to the emergency room or the dentist. Don’t Propose at a Sports Game Games are loud and chaotic events. Even if she is the biggest sports fan you ever knew, the arena doesn’t allow you to have any of the reflection and focus that making such a momentous decision deserves. Don’t Do it in Front of Her Family
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While your families will merge with your wedding, it is not their decision to do so. Proposals in front of family have an added level of stress that you don’t need. Take this moment to be just the two of you; don’t worry, you can call everyone immediately afterward. Don’t Make it Too Complicated While it’s good to be creative with your proposal, it is important to keep the focus on what’s important: the proposal itself. If you are worrying about whether or not the limousine will get to the balloon ride in time, you’re worrying about the wrong thing. Don’t Propose Too Early in the Relationship When you’re in the first flush of love, it’s hard not to do impetuous and foolish things. Yet waiting until your relationship is stable will only strengthen your marriage. Make sure you really know each other, and what each other wants from a marriage before you commit to it for the rest of your lives. Don’t Expect Her to Say Yes Immediately You’re asking someone to spend the rest of their life with you – an extremely important decision. Just because you’ve asked, doesn’t mean she is ready to say yes. If your sweetheart says maybe, take it in stride and give her some time to consider the proposal. After all, you wouldn’t want this amazing person to marry every Tom, Dick and Harry who asked her, would you?
a place for healthy living 807 Main St. N., Cambridge, MN 55008
763-421-4454 days ~ 763-856-4333 eves.
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Sewing • Alterations Veils • Flowers Jean Vig • 763.689.9273
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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Wedding Service Directory ~ Bridal Shops ~ The Bridal Boutique & Outlet 27 7th Avenue South (next to Herbergers) St. Cloud, MN 56301 320-253-7001 www.bridalboutiqueandoutlet.com
~ Hotels ~ Crossings by Grandstay Inns & Suites 300 South Garfield Street, Cambridge 763-689-0542, 866-936-STAY Cambridge@crossings.mn.com
North Country Bridal 508 South Lake Street Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-464-8222 www.northcountrybridalinc.com
AmericInn Lodge & Suites 910 South Rum River Drive Princeton, MN 55371 763-389-9312 americinn.com/hotel/mn/princeton
~ Cakes ~ Herman’s Bakery, Deli & Coffee Shop 130 Main Street Cambridge 763-689-1515
AmericInn Lodge & Suites 38675 14th Avenue North Branch, MN 55056 763-674-8627 www.americinn-northbranch.com
~ Ceremony Music ~ Jolena’s Music Studio Violin, piano, and vocal music indoor & outdoor. Formal & Informal 651-674-2885 Jaxberg6@q.com
~ Cleaners/Gown Preservation ~ Cambridge Launderers & Cleaners 326 West First Avenue (Hwy 95) Cambridge, MN 55008 763-689-1313
~ Photography ~ HC Photography 1-320-983-8101 www.hc-photography.com
~ Tuxedo Rentals ~ The Bridal Boutique & Outlet 27 South 7th Avenue (next to Herbergers) St. Cloud, MN 56301 • 320-253-7001 www.bridalboutiqueandoutlet.com
~ Photo Booths ~ Minnesota Photo Booths 763-754-6638 www.MinnesotaPhotoBooths.com ~ Banquet Facilites ~ Northern Lights Hwy 169 between Princeton and Milaca 320-369-4622 www.northernlightsbanquet.com Isanti County Fairgrounds Highway 95, Cambridge 763-689-9418 Spectacular Events Sanbrook Golf Course (1 mile east of Hwy. 65 on CR 5) 763-444-9840 or 612-801-5553 Captains on Long Lake 27821 Bayshore Dr. Isanti 612-801-5553 or 763-444-5897 North Branch Legion Post 85 6439 Elm Street North Branch, MN 55056 651-674-4810 Majestic Oaks 701 Bunker Lake BLVD Ham Lake, MN 55304 763-755-2140 www.majesticoaksgolfclub.com Vanellis By The Lake 55 South Lake Street Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-395-2400 www.vannellisbythelake.com ~ Catering & Beverages ~ RJ’s Catering Service 763-421-4454 (Days) 763-856-4333 (evening) County Market 5418 St Croix Trail North Branch, MN 55056 651-317-2100 Northbound Liquor 1655 East Highway 95, Cambridge 763-689-2468 Hours: M-Th 9 am - 9 pm, F-Sa 9 am - 10 pm North Branch Liquors 5846 Old Main St., North Branch 651-674-4082 Liquor@ci.north-branch.mn.us www.northbranchliquor.com Tobies Restaurant & Bakery 404 Fire Monument Road at I-35 Hinkley, MN 55037 320-384-6174
The Leader 133 South Main Street, Cambridge 763-689-1025 ~ Rentals ~ Isanti Rental 421 West Dual Boulevard, Isanti (Just No. of Isanti Hardware Hank on CR 5) 763-444-RENT (7368) Ruddy’s Rental Party Town, Inc. North Branch 651-674-7000 Forest Lake 651-464-7368 www.ruddysrental.com www.ruddyspartytown.com ~ Realtor ~ Michelle Lundeen REMAX Results 763-300-2728 www.michellelundeen.com ~ Sewing/Alterations ~ Lady Janes Creations Sewing, alterations, veils, and flowers Jean Vig 763-689-9273 ~ SPA ~ Willowbridge Center Hair, makeup, massage & more 807 Main Street Cambridge, MN 55008 763-552-6161 www.willowbridgecenter.com ~ Music/Entertainment ~ Spirit Unlimited Professional DJ Entertainment www.SUentertainment.com 763-754-6638 ~ Jewelry ~ Chilson Jewelers “The Diamond Store” Downtown Cambridge 763-689-2552 ~ Invitation Printing ~ Rapid Press 608 Lake Street South Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-464-6200 6382 Main Street North Branch, MN 55056 651-674-4056 509 3rd Avenue Pine City, MN 55063 320-629-2900
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
Planning Your
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The Four C’s of Diamond Buying Anyone shopping for a diamond engagement ring should first acquaint themselves with “the four Cs” - color, cut, clarity, and caret. Some also include the fifth c, cost. Color: With the exception of “fancy colored diamonds”, the more colorless a diamond is, the more valuable it is. Jewelers grade diamonds on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Anything more yellow than D is considered fancy and is much more expensive. Cut: Many people make the mistake of thinking that cut means the shape of the diamond. Rather, it means the way the diamond was faceted to allow light to reflect from it. In a well cut diamond, light enters the diamond and reflects straight back to the viewer’s eye. Some cutters will sacrifice cut to create the largest possible diamond, thus making too shallow or too deep of a cut and causing light to “leak” out the sides and bottom of the diamond. Cut can be something very difficult for a layperson to evaluate, which is why it is important to get an AGS Certificate or a GIA Certificate verifying the quality of your diamond. Cut is graded Ideal, Premium, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor.
Generally you should seek an Ideal to Very Good Diamond. Budgetconscious shoppers may opt for good. Clarity: Diamonds frequently have inclusions, or small flaws, air bubbles, scratches, or other minerals inside the diamond. The less inclusions a diamond has, the more valuable it is, and the more beautiful it is. The scale for grading diamond’s clarity is: F Flawless - no internal or external inclusions. IF Internally Flawless - no internal inclusions, slight external inclusions. VVS1-VVS2 Very Very Slightly Included - minute inclusions that are very difficult to detect under 10x magnification, even by an experienced grader. VS1-VS2 Very Slightly Included - minute inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye and seen only with difficulty under 10x magnification. SI1-SI2 Slightly Included - invisible to the naked eye, yet easily seen by an experienced grader under 10x magnification. I1-I3 Included - inclusions are visible to the naked eye and affect brilliance. Stones that are VVS2 to F are very rare and thus very expensive. Most couples will opt for some-
thing between SI2 and VS1, and will never know the difference. Caret:This refers to the size of the stone. While some value caret above all, others prefer a small ring regardless of budget. If you’re buying a ring as a surprise for someone, consider how flashy their other jewelry is. If they’re not someone who wears a lot of designer labels or big jewelry, perhaps you’ll want to opt for a smaller stone. Ideally, you’ll be able to try on a variety of sizes within your budget to see which size looks best on you or your love. Investment: While jewelers love to tell you that a diamond ring is a great investment, that’s not necessarily true. Diamond’s may or may not increase in value, but “antique” rings rarely cost as much as new ones do, because of wear and tear. Instead of looking at rings for their investment value, buy ones that symbolize your love, and that you’ll want to wear for the rest of your lives. Before you buy a diamond ring: Before you buy, ask the retailer to provide you with an AGS Certificate or a GIA Certificate. You’ll also want them to verify that the stone(s) is not a conflict diamond.
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Northbound Liquor can help you with a large selection of wine, liquor, champagne, and nonalcoholic beverages. Stop in and see how our friendly staff can help you plan your beverage needs. You tell us how may guests you want to serve and we’ll help you save money with our Special Quantity Discounts. 1655 1st Ave. East, Cambridge
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HC Photography
10857 210th Street Milaca MN 56353 • 320-983-8101
763-689-2468
All shoots include 2 photographers. Choose how you want your images - Printed or on CDs. Full details on our website.
M-Th: 9am-9pm F-Sat: 9am-10pm
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Wedding Bells, February 18, 2012
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2101 2nd Ave. S. Cambridge • 763-689-0606
Great Selection Of Groom’s Gifts In Our Sporting Goods Department Wedding Cakes & Cake Toppers | Film Development/Photo Processing Deli Trays, Fruit Baskets & Snacks | Cosmetics, Perfume & Cologne Punch Bowl/Drink Mixers | Fresh Flower Bouquets | Gifts Registry & Cards Helium Balloons | Fabrics | Jewelry | Guest Books