Wedding Planner Spring 2024

Wedding Planner

Photo Courtesy: Twin Creek Farms

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Catering + Bar

Spring Necessities

Outdoor Dancing

Spring offers its own natural beauty. Blossoming flowers complete the gorgeous setting, adding pops of color and fresh scents to your special day.

But no spring wedding would be complete without a few other necessities. Here’s a look:

Fresh Style Looks

The warmer weather opens up all sorts of style options for fashionable brides. Make sure your look matches the moments with soft colors and lightweight material so friends and family can enjoy the nuptials in comfort. Choosing the bridesmaids’ dresses can be particularly fun this time of year, with lots of options in shades of the same color.

Look for venues with space for outdoor dancing, so you can celebrate your new union in the warmth of a starry night. Setting all of this up can add another layer of logistical issues, considering you’ll need both power and lights. Discuss where the band or DJ will need to set up, and ensure the facility has everything needed. Of course, the best venues are old pros at this and will have a detailed plan ready to share. Be sure to update them on the number of guests who are expected to ensure there’s room for everyone.

Hydration Station

Everyone is bound to be thirsty after the ceremony, and particularly after cutting a rug for a while at the reception. Be sure there are plenty of drinks on hand to quench their thirst, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

Spring is the perfect time for eye-catching libations, from lemonade and margaritas to iced tea and fruity drinks. Ask about clear glass pitchers to show everything off. If the venue can accommodate it, consider making separate stations for different kinds of drinks.

Light Desserts

Don’t forget that desserts are about more than the wedding cake. Take advantage of the opportunity to wow your guests by bringing the same level of creativity to the final course of the evening. Besides a wedding cake that’s bound to be beautiful and delicious, create something that makes use of in-season fruits and berries to garnish colorful cookies and pies. Your decorator can complete the look with centerpieces based on similar colors. Spring-themed cakes are always a hit, and you can also have lots of fun with cupcakes. Top it all off with a champagne toast. What better way to celebrate such a huge occasion?

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Courtesy Twin Creek Farms

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ItemRegistryTrends

The first bridal registry was said to have been created in 1924 at Marshall Field’s in Chicago.

The idea, then as now, was to provide a list of things like china, silverware and crystal to make wedding gift buying easier for friends and family. Back then, a registry was created in person and kept in a special notebook. Today, much of this is handled online. But that’s not the only way that the bridal registry has changed. The latest trends include some very high-tech items.

Smart Choices

Couples register for a wide variety of things to complete their new household. Perhaps the hottest recent trend involves smart appliances. Coffee pots, refrigerators, vacuums, and even toasters are now outfitted with technology that allows them to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to your phone. This allows you to control them remotely and to set certain scheduled actions. Turn the airconditioning or heat on before you arrive, or off while you are away. Have a hot cup of joe waiting when you wake up. There’s even a toaster with more than 60 settings, following intelligent

Registry

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Hiring a Professional

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There’s a lot more to nuptials than saying “I do.” In fact, there are so many moving parts that it might make sense for you to hire someone to help out — or several someones.

Here’s a look at some of the available professional services to help take some of the stress out of planning and putting on a wedding. Why not simply enjoy your day?

Planning Services

Wedding planners are hired to look at the big picture,

making sure everything works in concert as your wedding day unfolds. In some cases, you may be able to break apart their responsibilities, but others don’t offer a la carte options. They want to make sure it all unfolds flawlessly. During your initial consultation meeting, you’ll discuss personal expectations, their available packages, and information on coordinating during your actual wedding day.

Don’t worry about a venue if you hire a wedding planner. They will listen carefully to your explanation and then select a series of possible facilities to meet your criteria. Once your

Professional

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Courtesy Lodge At River’s Edge

Courtesy Crystal and Twigs

Wedding Favors

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Wedding favors are your way of saying thank you to everyone who was a part of your special event.

The average cost of these gifts, according to The Knot wedding website, is several hundred dollars. Still, that’s worth it. They let guests know that you care, while providing them with a small special memory of their own from the big day. Here are a few gift ideas:

Go Green

Giving plants as a wedding favor is hip and eco-friendly, and they’re especially attractive if your wedding is being held in an outdoor setting. Match with local flora or fauna, and you’re literally allowing your friends and family to take a piece of your wedding home with them. Once it’s home, their plant will become a living memory.

Succulents are on trend, and also easy to care for. Stop by a local nursery to ask for specifics, keeping in mind that some native plants may not transfer well when brought back home.

Get Going

Destination weddings offer a great opportunity to match the event with a travel theme. Pick fun items like luggage tags, maps and travel snacks, then arrange them in attractive totes. Or go hyper-local, giving your guests things that are only found in the area where you’re getting married. That might be a special food, handmade good, or art object. Having a beach wedding? Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Time To Indulge

Trendy items this year include coffee mugs and miniature candles. For the more offbeat, consider heart-shaped tea bags or mini-pizza cutters. Edible wedding favors like

small chocolates, jars of honey or cupcakes can both surprise and delight. If you’re already indulging in plenty of flowers, add floral-inspired lollipops in flavors like champagne and roses, lemon and thyme, and rosemary and mint. One memorable offering even has seeds infused into the sticks, so they can be planted afterward.

Fun And Games

Add flair with personalized items like napkins, plastic

cups, shot glasses, wine glass charms and miniature bottles of liquor, beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages with your names and the wedding date. Other personalized options include koozies, matchboxes, playing cards and mugs which can be made with messages, names, dates or even pictures. Everyone can enjoy them right away at the reception, or bring things home as a special memento from your nuptials.

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

A New Take on Dairy

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ine and cheese may have long been staples at weddings, but cheese is now having its own moment.

WWedding celebrations are now including everything from upscale charcuterie and exciting cheesecake options to comfort foods like macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches. Here’s how to join this growing trend:

Boards And Wines

Charcuterie is a French word that originally referred to preparing meats, particularly pork, and then presenting them in a variety of ways. Today, the selection and variety of ingredients

The Lewis Clark Hotel

have wildly expanded. Ham, sausages, bacon or confit can be paired with complementary cheeses, jams, fruits or nuts of your choosing. Create your own unique charcuterie boards or enticing spreads on a main table, or smaller versions at individual seating areas, so everyone can join in the cheesy fun. They’re attractive and often cost-efficient.

Consider hiring a sommelier, or wine expert, if the budget allows. They’ll know just which libation matches with the unique flavor combinations you’ve created on these charcuterie boards. Ideally, there will be a variety of choices in both whites and reds, so

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The Lewis Clark Hotel is a very eleg ant and romantic venue that will make any bride happy! And there’s even more… Cryst al and Twigs is now located inside the Hotel to help you create the perfect setting.. The Hotel offers two very eleg ant and cozy bridal and groom suites that are included in your wedding package! No need to get ready off site! This beautiful venue will have your guests in awe!

The Lewis Clark Hotel is a very elegant and romantic venue that will make any bride happy! And there’s even more… Cryst al and Twigs is now located inside the Hotel to help you create the perfect setting.. The Hotel offers two very elegant and bridal and groom suites your No need beautiful ur guests

Courtesy Crystal and Twigs

Courtesy Lodge At River’s Edge

Courtesy Twin Creek Farms

Courtesy Jessie Frost Forever Love Photography

Take it Outside

There’s something special about an outdoor wedding, especially if you’re planning a gorgeous, romantic destination event.

But even if you are planning on having your nuptials in the backyard, there are certain benchmark elements that you’ll need to have in place to pull it all off. Here’s a checklist to make your spring outdoor wedding a stress-free success:

Communication Plan

There needs to be a central communication hub so that check-ins and changes can be communicated, whether

that’s a group text, a Facebook event page, wedding website or online meeting space. Vendors, guests, friends and members of the wedding party should be able to quickly and easily get in contact if they have questions or concerns. This will become particularly important if there is a major change in plans, but can be helpful in even small situations — such as when someone is running late.

If you don’t hire a wedding planner, designate a family member or friend to monitor the agreed-upon communication hub.

Know The Rules

Be aware of local noise and crowd regulations. There

may be local statutes or venue guidelines when it comes to how loudly and how long a band or DJ can play music.

You also need to make sure you don’t block traffic, or create other issues for people who live in or are traveling through the area. Make sure you know where and when people are allowed to park. You don’t want to end up with unforeseen issues with neighbors or business owners because of overflow traffic.

If you’re worried about having enough space for all of your guests to park, contact nearby churches or schools — and then direct people there.

Hydration And Shade Spring brings warmer

temps, and that creates the need for shade and hydration. Dancing and drinking alcoholic beverages also tend to make people thirsty during your reception. Older guests may be particularly susceptible to stress from heat.

Alternate Location

The biggest risk with outdoor events of any kind, of course, is bad weather. Your wedding will be planned out months in advance, meaning there’s no way to check the forecast for rain. Create a backup plan just in case. Tour suitable alternate venues or look for outdoor sites that have nearby buildings so everything can be quickly transferred.

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Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

The Long Tradition of Rice

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e’ve seen it time and time again: Spouses kiss and are presented as a couple, then exit toward a waiting vehicle as guests throw celebratory rice in the air. But why?

WHere’s a look at the long tradition of rice in weddings — and some newer alternative practices:

How It Began

Rice was originally chosen because it symbolizes prosperity and fertility, according to Brides magazine. It’s tossed as a sign of well wishes for the future. The tradition dates back at least to ancient Celts, who threw rice and other grains both as a newlywed blessing and to appease various gods, according to Brides. Not everyone followed along, however. Ancient Romans were said to

toss wheat, Moroccans threw figs or dried dates, and Indians celebrated with flower petals.

Getting Ready

Make or buy small packages of rice for your guests before the ceremony. Ushers can distribute the packets, or you can attach them to chairs or the wedding program. Ask ushers and other helpers to let guests know when the time is right.

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Rice

Courtesy Twin Creek Farms

TopWeddingsDestination

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Getting out of dodge to say I do is back in a big way after the COVID-19 pandemic all but shut down the destination wedding industry. Here are some top places for your nuptials in 2024.

Playa Mujeres, Mexico

Playa Mujeres is a resort community just north of Cancun and light years away from it’s spring-break style party. It’s an easy ride from the Cancun airport, though, and there’s plenty of resort accommodations. For excursions for the couple or for visiting family and friends, there are archaeology tours to nearby Chichen Itza and Tulum, as well as plenty of cenotes, beaches and wildlife tours to explore.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica’s third-most populous city boasts sandy beaches, glittering caves, stunning waterfalls, restaurants, golf, nightlife and more. The center of action is Gloucester Avenue, where you can visit Usain Bolt’s sports bar. The city is also close to major

Destination

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Courtesy Jessie Frost Forever Love Photography

Courtesy Morning Glory Famrs

Making it Legal

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Paperwork isn’t romantic, but there is a fair amount of it involved in getting married. Most of it takes place before the big day, which is good news, but much of it is time limited. Here’s what you need to get hitched.

Marriage License

Before the big day, you need to apply for a marriage license. This usually takes place at your county’s clerk of court’s office. To get a marriage license, you usually need your Social Security numbers or any

other available identification numbers, such as your driver’s license. You may also need a certified copy of your birth certificate, sometimes called the raised-seal copy. If you’ve been married before, you’ll also need your date of divorce, death or annulment. In some states, you may have to take a premarital preparation course or wait a certain amount of time before getting married. Once issued, most marriage licenses are only good for a certain period of time before they can

Vows in the Vineyards

Courtesy Morning Glory Farms

Beach Weddings Checklist

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ometimes, putting your toes in the sand is all that you need. And a minister, and some flowers, and some paperwork, and seating, and a band, and lights … .

Don’t get too stressed. We’ve got a checklist that’s got you covered for a perfect beachy wedding.

• Pick your beach: Consider if it’s open for weddings, if you need a permit, if there’s parking and if it’s accessible for everyone.

• Find vendors: You’ll need a florist, a baker and more. Work with local companies who know the area and its limitations. They can advise you on vendors you might need that you haven’t even thought of.

• Choose beach-friendly décor: This means windproof, wave proof and sand proof. Before you set your heart on anything, consider if it can hold up to ocean breezes (which can be more like cyclones), sudden showers and ocean spray. Don’t go overboard. Remember you chose the

beach for a reason – the gorgeous vistas. Too much décor will just be clutter.

• Arrange for shade: The beach is a hot, sunny location and if there’s no shade nearby, you’ll have to bring some to keep both you and your guests comfortable. Talk to local event planners to find the best solutions for your ceremony.

• Settle on an appropriate menu: Keep your beachside reception fare light. Not only will it keep your guests from wilting, it will also stand up better to the sun, wind and heat. Also consider this when it comes to your cake. Choose a style that will hold up to the elements.

• Pick proper attire: Choose a lighter dress that will keep you cool and comfortable. Longer gowns may look great, but they’re going to be heavy with sand before you know it. Either go shorter or ensure that you can bustle your dress. You also want to forego the heels. The fashionable soles are sexy, but impossible to wear in sand. The groom should choose lightweight cotton

suits or even Bermuda shorts. You might consider a flip-flop station for guests that didn’t think ahead.

• Arrange for sturdy seating: Your guests should be comfortable, and that means chairs that can handle shifting sands and are sturdy enough to stand up to beach winds. If you’re keeping your ceremony short and sweet, consider just providing seating for the elderly and children and having your other guests stand.

• Choose a palette that compliments the beach’s sand and water hues. Go bold and tropical with green and hot orange, coral or magenta tones.

• Things to have on hand: Cold beverages, and plenty of them, to help guests beat the heat. Sunscreen. Bug repellent. Sunglasses. Towels.

• Have a backup plan. The beach is amazing, but it can turn wild in a second with weather. Or seaweed. Or a fishkill. Have a plan B that you love just as much.

Courtesy Jessie Frost Forever Love Photography

Courtesy Lodge At River’s Edge

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT FORM

Return form to: The Lewiston Tribune, PO Box 957, 505 Capital St., Lewiston ID 83501

Contact: Jeanne M. DePaul, (208) 848-2221 or jdepaul@lmtribune.com Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday

THE BRIDE-ELECT

Full legal name of bride-elect

Her city of residence

Her place of employment (include city)

Her parents’ names and city of residence

Telephone

Her educational background (include high school, college or trade school, location and year of graduation)

THE BRIDEGROOM-ELECT

Full legal name of bridegroom-elect

His city of residence

His place of employment (include city)

His parents’ names and city of residence

Telephone

His educational background (include high school, college or trade school, location and year of graduation)

Wedding date and place if set

Photo submitted? (Include self-addressed stamped envelope for return)

Contact name for billing

Contact e-mail address

Telephone

Engagement information/photo must be submitted to the Tribune no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday to be considered for publication in the Sunday A.M. Section. Please see page 16 for more information.

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT FORM

Return form to: The Lewiston Tribune, PO Box 957, 505 Capital St., Lewiston ID 83501

Contact: Jeanne M. DePaul, (208) 848-2221 or jdepaul@lmtribune.com Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday

THE BRIDE

Full legal name

Did bride change her last name to the bridegroom’s name?

Her city of residence

Her place of employment (include city)

Occupation:

Her parents’ names and city of residence

Telephone

Her educational background (include high school, college or trade school, location and year of graduation)

THE BRIDEGROOM

Full legal name

His city of residence

His place of employment (include city)

Occupation:

His parents’ names and city of residence

Telephone

His educational background (include high school, college or trade school, location and � year of graduation)

Wedding date and place (include city)

Wedding date and place (include city)

Name and title of person who performed ceremony

If minister, list his/her church affiliation (include city)

If judge or other official, list city of residence

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WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT FORM

ATTENDANTS’ NAMES CITY; STATE; RELATIONSHIP

Maid/matron of honor

Bridesmaid

Bridesmaid

Bridesmaid

Bridesmaid

Best man

Usher/groomsman

Usher/groomsman

Usher/groomsman

Usher/groomsman

Flower girl

Ring bearer

Candlelighter

Candlelighter

Organist/pianist

Vocalist

Other musicians

Place of reception (include city)

Couple’s new city of residence

Photo submitted? (Include self-addressed stamped envelope for return)

Contact name for billing

Contact e-mail address

Telephone

Wedding information and photo must be submitted to the Tribune no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday to be considered for publication in the Sunday A.M. Section. Please see page 15 for more information.

Invitation Trends

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While wedding invitations may seem like they are straightforward, there can be even more options when it comes to sending your invitations as there are blooms for your bouquet.

Wedding invitations set the tone for your ceremony, and the colors, fonts and feel of your guest’s first inkling of your intentions is important.

The One with the Wedding

Serious stationery will never go out of style, but nowadays more brides are

starting to have fun with their invitations. The Knot says that the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought on more intimate ceremonies, also saw an uptick in more playful wording, and that the trend has stuck around.

“Couples want to tell their unique love story and aren’t afraid to break traditions by infusing humor and/or pop culture into their invitations and décor,” says Leah Conroy, associate director of merchandising at The Knot Invitations.

Invitation

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Courtesy Red Barn Farms

Choosing a DJ

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Receptions are when it’s time to bust a move, and a really great DJ can make sure everyone at the party is having a good time.

The DJ can also take the stress off the bride and groom by not only planning the party’s playlist, but a really experienced DJ can spot when something’s about to go south and cover it up by spinning a new song.

Finding DJ Options

Start by asking friends and family about wedding DJs they’ve seen and heard. If you come up empty, turn to your other vendors. They’ve often all worked with each other before and can give you great recommendations. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a top three, schedule a call or in-person meeting to talk. Some questions to consider:

• Availability: Make sure they’re available for your date and in your budget.

• How long have you been a DJ? Get an idea of their experience and make sure they can work professionally.

• How many weddings have you worked? Weddings are different than, say, nightclubs. Make sure you and this DJ are on the same page.

• How do you get a shy crowd moving?

• Do you have references?

Music Choices

DJs should give you a feel for the types of music they play – and they should ask plenty of questions about the types of music you and your families prefer. Ask how often they update their music catalog and if you can make requests. You also want to find out if the DJ will also act as emcee or if you need to assign that role to someone else. If you end up choosing someone else to emcee, announcing the father-daughter dance and toasts and such, then you need to have them meet with the DJ beforehand to work out timing.

Logistics and Equipment

Find out how much equipment the DJ requires and how they’ll get it to your venue and set up. Ask if you’ll need to provide any separate equipment and how they handle equipment malfunctions (they do happen). Find out if they’ve worked in your reception space before and, if they plan to use lighting or special effects, make sure those are cleared with the venue beforehand. Also find out what they plan to wear and make sure it fits in with your idea of your reception.

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Courtesy Jessie Frost Forever Love Photography

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Out of Town Guests

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Long gone are the days when everyone on the wedding guest list lived just down the road. Today’s couples are planning for most, if not all, of the wedding guests to come from out of town. Because outof-town guests are going through a lot of expense and effort to attend, couples often feel like they need to help them out.

Make a Gift Basket

Some couples will give outof-town guests a wedding itinerary and package it in a clever gift basket that highlights the perks of your town. You can do this in print and on a website so that guests can access the information on the go. Give them ideas of how to fill their free time with things to do for

a range of budgets and ages. If you’ve also arranged for a hotel block for your guests, you can ask the hotel to leave the baskets in their rooms.

Offer Suggestions for Accommodations and Travel

It’s not your responsibility to secure a hotel block or book any travel for your guests, but you can offer suggestions. Put together a list of hotels or other accommodations near your wedding venue, along with your favorite restaurants, cafes and coffee shops. Share what you know about your town’s airport to make travel easier – for instance, if it has epic security lines or if parking is a challenge – or include nearby airports that guests can fly in to. Try to choose options to fit every budget.

We believe that there are many opportunities to incorporate a luxury picnic into your wedding. They would be perfect for a bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, a sweetheart table, a micro-wedding reception, or even a unique elopement. The possibilities are endless!

Transportation

If guests would be better off renting a car, let them know up front. Help relatives and guests organize carpools amongst themselves and plan for a way to get nondrivers to and from the airport and other event venues. If you’re already working with a hotel, they may be willing to provide a shuttle or bus for your party.

WildRosePicnicCo.com

Phone: (208) 790-0016

Email: wildrosepicnicco@gmail.com Lewiston, ID

At Melliflora, we help fun couples and their families elevate their weddings and events into pure magic with our one-of-a-kind florals, inspired by the seasons. You’ll be expertly cared for from your initial inquiry to the big day because we’re committed to exceptional beauty as we bring your vision to life.

Keep Them Entertained

While you don’t need to plan every second of the trip, you should offer things to keep your guests in the party mood. Think about having a welcome party prior to the more intimate rehearsal dinner, or a cocktail hour or even a pizza party to show your guests how much you appreciate their efforts.

Flower farm and design studio (208)305-9970

colleen@mellifera.farm https://www.mellifera.farm/weddings-events

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Invitation

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Celebrating Cultural Backgrounds

Opt for invitations that honor your family’s heritage or that of your soon-to-be spouse’s. Couples are opting for bilingual invitations, The Knot says, or using colors, motifs and icons in a nod to their heritage.

Pets Front and Center

First comes love, then comes the dog. More and more wedding invitations and accessory stationery, such as save-the-date cards and thank you notes, are including references to the happy couple’s four-legged or feathered or finned friends.

Art Nouveau

Turn-of-the-20th century Art Nouveau motifs are en vogue on invitations, The Knot says. Characterized by flourishes, intricate detailing

Legal

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and often opulent botanical themes, it’s a big left turn from the more recent years of minimalist aesthetic.

’70s Style

Also back are the funky, groovy designs of the 1970s and its avocado-forward color palette. This is another rebellion against sleek design that has fans of the bold celebrating.

Bits, Bytes and I-Dos

More and more, stationery is going digital in some way. If not the whole invitation, couples may opt for a printed invitation with a QR code or website for people to RSVP. That saves the couple money because there are no self-addressed stamped envelopes to include and saves the guests time. Many invitation printers offer digital options to go along with their printed versions to keep the look cohesive.

be recorded. Your officiant will usually take care of that after the ceremony.

Officially Changing Your Name

If either party in the marriage is changing their name, you will need to get a certified copy of your marriage license. The county you got married in can provide you with a certified copy that will be accepted by government entities and financial institutions as proof of your marriage.

You should also update your Social Security card. You can do this by mail or at your nearest Social Security office. You’ll need to bring your proof of name change

(your certified marriage certificate), proof of citizenship, valid photo identification and your current Social Security card.

Once that’s done, you’ll also need to get a new ID. For most people, this is a driver’s license, but you may also need a new stateissued ID or military ID. You should wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security to attempt to change your name on your other IDs. That will give everyone’s system time to update.

To update your ID, go to the DMV or other ID office and bring your new Social Security card or your receipt from the Social Security office, proof of address, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and options for payment that include cash, card and check.

You should then update your passport. If your honeymoon is international, wait until after you’re home to update your name; the names have to match on the passport and the boarding pass.

Mail a completed DS-5504 or DS-82 form from the U.S. Department of State, a certified copy of your marriage certificate and your current passport to the National Passport Processing Center. You may also incur fees; check with the U.S. Department of State.

Finally, once you have your new passport, update your Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, if you have them. For Global Entry, you will need to visit a local office, but PreCheck users can call (855) 347-8371.

Courtesy Morning Glory Farms

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Destination

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attractions Ocho Rios, Negril and St. Elizabeth. There are plenty of historic houses, chateaus, hotels and resorts to host your I-dos.

Guanacasle, Costa Rica

This tropical paradise shows off a pristine shoreline with mountains and volcanoes to boot. Playa Hermosa is a good choice for travelers who want to get away from it all and explore the natural world. It’s near Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Palo Verde National Park and Santa Rosa National Park. Liberia is the capitol of the province and maintains a native Tico atmosphere while still accommodating travelers. The White City would be a great choice for a white wedding.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

Just offshore of New Providence in the Bahamas, Paradise Island is home to popular Cabbage and Paradise beaches. It’s also where the sprawling Atlantis resort is located. It’s connected to New Providence by a pair of bridges crossing Nassau harbor, so you and your guests can enjoy all the islands have to offer.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking to stay stateside,

Courtesy Lodge At River’s Edge

this city dripping with Southern charm and tropical hues makes for a stunning wedding backdrop. You can still get your beachfront and your history, too, and the vendors have plenty of experience with destination brides, raising the chances your wedding will go off without a hitch.

Paris, France

Go intercontinental to the most romantic city in the world. Paris is fully of luxury and boutique hotels that can cater to your every wish and whim. Start with your ceremony in the City of Lights and then move on to the Alps or Riviera for the honeymoon.

Rice

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You might also consider listing the proper time to throw rice in the program. Most couples choose the moment they initially walk out of the venue, but others may want to do it during a special photo.

Modern Controversy

More recently, fears have arisen that leftover grains might cause harm to wildlife long after the ceremony is over. Some government officials have even banned the practice.

Brides magazine reported, however, that subsequent testing has shown no immediate danger to animals. Rice can pose a slip hazard, however, so someone should be on hand to sweep up once the happy couple has left the venue.

Instead Of Rice

There are plenty of reasons beyond worries over wildlife to opt for something else instead of rice. Some people are looking for greener options, while others are planning to have children and therefore feel uncomfortable about rice’s age-old symbolism of fertility. Then there are the inherent safety issues. Some options to consider go back to alternative traditions from places around the world like flower petals. Others now use birdseed, herbs, or biodegradable confetti. Some choose not to throw anything at all. Instead, have friends and family ring small bells or wave colorful ribbons.

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everyone can enjoy the evening. Some couples also choose to pair all of this with craft beer, to add a modern twist.

Comfort Foods

Grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese aren’t just easy home-cooked meals anymore. Caterers are increasingly including these warm, cheesy delights are part of their wedding reception offerings, but with more polished culinary twists, of course. Nutty Gruyere, gooey fontina and sharp cheddar jazz up mini-bite sandwiches, which are made using inventive breads and spreads. Macaroni and cheese is also being elevated, with inviting new cheese choices and fun pasta shapes.

Try cavatappi, penne or rotini. Then dive into Swiss, blue cheese, creamy Alfredo or Gruyere-based sauces. Top it all off with pancetta or crispy bacon, diced tomatoes (particularly welcome if it gets a little too warm at your spring wedding), spicy jalapenos, fresh

broccoli or chopped herbs.

After Dinner

The multi-tiered wedding cake still rules in all of its confectionery glory. But cheese is elbowing its way to the table too in the form of exciting

cheesecake options or cheeses matched with sweets like fresh fruit.

Cheese and fruit are a great alternative if the spouses-to-be or guests are going low-carb or gluten-free.

Courtesy Jessie Frost Forever Love Photography

Professional

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big day arrives, the wedding planner will then take control of every aspect of the wedding event. They’ll hire and manage vendors, as needed, while providing directions to guests and your wedding party.

Photographer

You’re going to want lots of documentation from this special event. Don’t rely on friends and family to get the best photos. Make sure a professional photographer is on hand to capture the quality images you’ll keep with you for a lifetime. Ask for referrals before hiring someone, ask people in your circle about their experiences, and look over examples of their previous wedding assignments. Then

Registry

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algorithms to heat things your precise desires.

Going Places

create a detailed plan based on how the event will unfold, and what you are looking for from the pre-wedding activities and reception.

Florist

You want to get the most out of the bounty of spring, so splurge on an expert in floral arrangements. A florist will help create centerpieces, fun accents and your bouquets, adding pops of color and intrigue. When you meet, explain your expectations and color palette in as much detail as possible. This is a particularly important hire if you have booked a destination wedding, since you’re likely unfamiliar with the local varieties and when they are at their peak.

You’ll probably start dreaming of the next getaway not long after returning from your honeymoon. Arrive in style with allnew luggage that fits the modern lifestyle and aesthetic. Hardsided bags now have built-in phone chargers, for instance. New compartmentalization options make organizing and packing a breeze. If you’re more adventurous or love to camp, be sure to mark down back-packs and duffel bags in the registry.

At Home

Maybe you’re more of a homebody. Gift registries can help you quickly build a warm and inviting atmosphere for one another. Registry standbys like sheets and towels make timeless gifts, the more comfy the better. The latest trend is high-tech fabrics that are both sustainable and longer lasting than the products of yesteryear.

Just remember to make pattern and color choices that will fit into your life on a longer-term basis. Neutrals are always in fashion.

Other Ideas

Round out your registry with items that will make your first years together more carefree. Soundbars help bring your home theater to life. Convection toaster ovens bring the food to your table in the blink of an eye. Espresso machines will make getting out of bed something to look forward to.

Courtesy Crystal and Twigs

Courtesy Red Barn Farms