Fall/Winter Wedding Planner 2024 by Lewiston Tribune

Wedding Planner Wedding Planner

Photo Courtesy: Big Canyon Acres

Looking for a stunning wedding venue or quality wedding caterer? Look no further. With breathtaking views of the Lewis-Clark valley, you can choose between a charming outdoor ceremony or elegant indoor banquet at the Hells Canyon Grand Hotel. House braised and smoked meats, fresh vegetables and seasonal dishes are the core of our catering menus. We deliver within 50 miles.

Destination Weddings: dos and don’ts

estination weddings offer a unique way to celebrate your special day, combining the joy of marriage with the excitement of travel. Here are a few dos and don’ts to make your big day the best it can be.

• DON’T send the invitations late. Send out invitations at least six months in advance. This will give your guests enough time to budget for their trip, take time off work and make travel plans.

• DON’T forget the legalities. Different countries have different rules when it comes to the legal requirements for marriage. Ensure you understand the legal aspects of getting married in your chosen destination.

• DON’T over-plan. A well-thought-out itinerary is essential, but don’t overcomplicate things. Allow some flexibility for your guests to explore and enjoy the location.

• DO consider the weather. Research the climate of your chosen destination. This will help you select appropriate attire for you and your guests and plan for any weather-related contingencies.

• DO make a wedding website. This is a

particularly good idea for destination weddings. You can include everything your guests need to know, including travel details, accommodation options and local attractions.

• DO hire a wedding planner. Destination weddings can be complex to

coordinate. A professional wedding planner can alleviate stress and ensure every detail is taken care of.

Shop local by visiting local bridal stores to find everything you need to make your special day a success.

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Your Wedding Venue: factors to consider

hen planning a wedding, selecting the perfect venue is a crucial decision that sets the tone for the special day. Here are five essential factors to consider before making your choice.

1. Location. Decide where you want your wedding to take place, considering the convenience of your guests and the backdrop for your photos. A beautiful natural vista or historical location can add a touch of magic to your big day.

VENUE continued on page 18

Courtesy Red Barn Farms

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

4 ways to include your children in your wedding

f you’re a parent getting married, there’s no one more special to include in your wedding than your children. Here are four ways to thoughtfully involve your little ones in your special day.

1. Let them be the flower girl or ring bearer. This classic role will make your children feel like an integral part of your wedding and create cherished memories for years to come.

3. Involve them in a first dance. Choose a meaningful song for your family and dance with your children. Whether it’s a slow, emotional dance or a fun, lively routine, your children will appreciate being a part of this significant moment.

Eco-friendly wedding favours

Are you looking for ecofriendly wedding favour ideas? As sustainability continues to be top of mind in 2024, more and more couples are seeking environmentally conscious ways to thank their guests for sharing their special day. Here are five inspiring ideas.

1. Seed packets. Give your guests packets of seeds they can plant and watch grow. Whether it’s wildflowers, herbs or tree seeds, these favours symbolize the growth of your love while contributing to a greener world.

local artisans reduces your carbon footprint, and your guests will appreciate the delicious treat.

4. Personalized wood or cork coasters. Wooden or cork coasters, engraved with your names and wedding date, make for both a practical and eco-friendly keepsake.

The Lewis Clark Hotel

2. Include them in a ritual. Consider involving your children in a special ritual during the ceremony, such as sand or salt pouring or handfasting. This can help demonstrate the importance of family in your marriage.

4. Let them give a special reading or speech. Encourage your children to share their thoughts and well-wishes during the ceremony or reception. It can be a touching and memorable experience to give them a platform to express their feelings.

and

Event Venue & Home of Crystal

Twigs Event Decor, Design & Rentals.

Speak with a local wedding planner to find unique ways to involve your children in your big day.

2. Fairtrade coffee or tea. Show your support for sustainable farming practices and fair wages with this ethical choice. You can feel good that your favours will have a positive impact beyond your wedding day.

3. Locally made chocolate. Locally sourced and ethically produced chocolates make ideal wedding favours. Supporting

5. Handmade soap. Luxurious and ecofriendly handcrafted soaps made from natural, biodegradable ingredients come in a variety of scents and can be customized to match your wedding theme or colours.

Visit your local shops to find wedding favours to WOW your guests.

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

Event Venue & Home of Crystal and Twigs

Event Decor, Design & Rentals.

Event Venue & Home of Crystal and Twigs Event Decor, Design & Rentals.

elegant 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 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!

Renewing Your Marriage Vows: what you should know

enewing your wedding vows might be the perfect way reaffirm your love and commitment to your partner. Here’s what you should know about vow renewal ceremonies.

WHY DO IT

There are several reasons you might want to renew your marriage vows. For some couples, this type of ceremony is put together to celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary. For others, the chance to host the perfect wedding reception, especially if the first one didn’t go according to plan, is the prime incentive.

WHEN TO DO IT

You can renew your marriage vows whenever you want. However, many couples select a milestone anniversary, especially the 20th, 30th or 40th. However, there are no rules or deadlines, so feel free to choose any day

that feels right.

HOW TO DO IT

Make sure to invite all your loved ones, and let them know about the event ahead of time so they can reserve the day. Decide whether you want to host a formal or informal reception, a small gathering or large event, or an exotic getaway or backyard bash.

No matter what you decide about your vow renewal ceremony, be sure to turn to your local merchants and suppliers to help you create a memorable day.

5 Tips For Planning A Successful Wedding

id you recently get engaged? Are you planning your wedding? If so, follow these five tips to ensure your big day is a success.

1. Arrange accommodations. If your reception is taking place in the countryside or you have guests attending from out of town, consider making arrangements with nearby hotels. This way you can ensure people attending your wedding will have somewhere to stay.

2. Be prepared for any weather. It’s important to be prepared for any weather on your wedding day, especially if your ceremony or reception will take place outdoors. You should

continued on page 18

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Wedding Checklist

The question was popped and the proposal joyfully accepted. Now it’s time to plan the wedding. Here’s a month-by-month checklist to make sure you don’t forget a thing.

12 MONTHS BEFORE

• Decide on the type of wedding you’d like (civil or religious, big or small)

• Choose a date

• Determine the number of guests

• Establish a budget

• Pick venues for the ceremony and reception (it’s best to reserve early)

11 MONTHS BEFORE

• Make your guest list

• Choose a caterer (meet with a few first)

• Select your wedding party

• Hire a wedding planner

10 MONTHS BEFORE

• Start shopping for a wedding dress

• Decide on a theme for your wedding

• Choose an officiant if you haven’t already done so

9 MONTHS BEFORE

• Book a photographer

• Reserve a block of hotel rooms for your out-of-town guests

• Purchase a wedding gown

• Shop for the groom’s attire and purchase it

8 MONTHS BEFORE

• Meet with your officiant to plan your ceremony

• Book your entertainment (DJ, band, MC, etc.)

• Shop for and purchase your bridesmaids’ dresses

• Design and order the wedding invitations and save-the-date cards

7 MONTHS BEFORE

• Create a gift registry

• Hire a florist

• Plan your honeymoon

6 MONTHS BEFORE

• Send out the save-the-date cards

• Book your hair and makeup appointments for the day of (also schedule trial runs for both)

• Book a hotel room for the wedding night if necessary

5 MONTHS BEFORE

• Create a schedule for the big day

• Decide on dates for bachelor and bachelorette parties

• Shop for and purchase shoes, jewelry and accessories

4 MONTHS BEFORE

• Reserve wedding day transportation for the wedding party

• Select alcohol and other drinks for the reception

• Taste and choose your wedding cake

• Buy wedding bands

• Shop for and order the groomsmen’s attire

3 MONTHS BEFORE

• Purchase wedding favours for your guests

• If you’d like your loved ones to say or read something during the ceremony, let them know

• Write down your vows

• Decide on activities for the reception (photo booth, dancing, games, etc.)

2 MONTHS BEFORE

• Send out your wedding invitations

• Do trial runs for both hair and makeup

• Give your music selections to the DJ or MC

1 MONTH BEFORE

• Finalize the schedule for the big day

• Choose a seating plan for the reception

• Break in your shoes

1 WEEK BEFORE

• Visit the desired beauty professionals (hair colourist, esthetician, etc.)

• Practise reading your vows

• Write out cheques to pay your vendors

1 DAY BEFORE

• Get your nails done

• Give the cheques to someone you trust to pay the vendors

DAY OF

• Enjoy!

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Courtesy Red Barn Farms

Courtesy Crystal and Twigs

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 Telephone

Her place of employment (include city)

Her parents’ names and city of residence

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 10 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)

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

Continued on page 11

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT FORM

ATTENDANTS’ NAMES CITY; STATE; RELATIONSHIP

Maid/matron of honor

Bridesmaid

Best man

Usher/groomsman

Flower girl

Ring bearer

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 9 for more information.

Brunch Receptions: an emerging wedding trend

t’s becoming increasingly trendy to host a wedding brunch instead of a dinner. If you’re planning your big day, here are a few good reasons to consider having a brunch reception.

AN EARLY EVENT

Do you find it hard to stay up until the wee hours of the morning? Are you inviting several seniors or young children to your wedding? Do some guests prefer not to drive at night? For all of these reasons, a morning wedding might be a great option. This way, everyone will be in high spirits from start to end.

AN IRRESISTIBLE MENU

Contrary to what some people say, brunch doesn’t have to be simple or pared down. In fact, you can serve up a variety of fancy hot and cold dishes, including:

• Local cheeses

• Belgian waffles

• Dauphinois potatoes

• Salmon gravlax

• Duck breast

• Eggs benedict

• Fruit cocktails

• Game sausages

• Niçoise salad

• Viennese pastries

If this trending wedding idea appeals to you, find out if the restaurants, reception halls and caterers in your area offer a brunch menu.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Wedding Cake

f fruitcake isn’t your idea of the perfect wedding cake, have you considered serving something more reflective of your tastes? From flourless confections to savoury takes on the traditional, there are plenty of ways to create a wedding cake to remember.

SAVOURY CAKES

Imagine cheese wheels set on pillars in the style of a traditional wedding cake garnished with grapes, figs and nuts. Another savoury option is a tiered meat pie.

INDIVIDUAL TREATS

baked in moulds and then stacked to create a tower of many thin layers.

Rather than one large cake, why not have a showpiece of bite-sized confections? Macarons make elegant and delicious treats. Pull out all the stops with decadent singleserving wedding cakes, individually decorated with marzipan and fondant.

GLUTEN-FREE CAKE

A Scandinavian favourite, the kransekake — Norwegian for “wreath cake” — is made with almonds, confectioners’ sugar and egg whites. It’s

DESIGNER BISCUITS

A designer biscuit shop can bake and decorate bespoke cookies with messages or images tailor-made for the bride and groom. Imagine edible surfboards commemorating your first date or little brideand groom-shaped treats. Make it extra special with personalized place marker biscuits.

Your local bakeshops may offer sampling sessions. Contact them early to ensure they’re available for your big day.

Courtesy Red Barn Farms

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

What To Look For In A Wood Wedding Ring

re you looking for a wedding ring that’s stylish, durable and evokes the beauty of nature? A wood wedding band could be a good fit. Here’s what to look for.

• Style. If you want a wedding ring that’s one of a kind, wood is the way to go. Indeed, the texture and pattern of each wood ring is unique. These wedding bands can be made solely of wood or plated and inlaid with other materials.

• Durability. Wood rings are durable but not indestructible. Ideally, they should be made of a hardwood, such as oak, to

ensure they can withstand years of wear.

• Price. Wood rings can vary in price depending on the chosen materials, finish and design. For example, gold plating and precious stone inlays will drive up the cost. However, wood rings are far less expensive than traditional gold wedding bands.

• Fit. Wood rings aren’t malleable and can’t be resized. Therefore, it’s important to know your ring size so you can ensure you get the right fit.

To find the wood wedding ring of your dreams, visit your local jewelry stores.

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Hire A Wedding Planner

lanning a wedding is a full-time job. Have you considered hiring a professional wedding planner? Here are a few ways a pro can make your wedding day perfect for you and enjoyable for your loved ones.

• Schedule and budget. Wedding planners have timetables and finances down to a science. They’ll relieve you of all uncertainty, from timing your invitations to ordering the cake.

• Insider knowledge. A pro knows which vendors best suit your preferences and needs. Moreover, since your planner brings them steady business, you may get better deals.

• Personality management. You need someone to advocate for you when interpersonal conflicts arise. Be it the guest list, the seating plan or a problematic relative, your wedding planner will handle uncomfortable conversations for you.

• Quality control. A pro ensures nothing gets overlooked. They may also have unique and fun ideas you may not have thought of.

Investing in a professional may save you money on your overall wedding costs. Talk to a wedding planner near you to relax and enjoy your special day.

4 Tips For A Winning Marriage Proposal

Has the subject of marriage come up in conversations with your sweetheart? Does it feel like the right time to pop the big question? Here are four tips to help you make your proposal unique and unforgettable.

1. Think about your personalities. If you or your partner are shy, a public proposal with lots of people watching might not be the best idea. Instead, choose an intimate moment. For example, in the comfort of your home, while taking a walk or during a romantic picnic. If you don’t want it to be entirely private, consider including a few of your closest friends to make it meaningful.

2. Plan your proposal. Ideally, choose a moment when you won’t be too pressed for time to avoid needless stress. While it may seem

there’s never an ideal time to propose, it’s in your best interest not to rush it.

3. Pay attention to your presentation. Even if an engagement ring isn’t essential to you, the moment of presentation is the heart and soul of the marriage proposal. Choose the ring carefully, subtly taking note of your partner’s tastes while passing a jewelry shop window, for example.

4. Consider the element of surprise. Even if you and your partner frequently talk about marriage, the element of surprise is key to a memorable proposal. Make your plans discreetly, and be sure that the loved ones you enlist help keep the secret safe.

Start exploring your area to find the perfect ring and plan the perfect place and time for your marriage proposal.

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel

Easy But Awesome Photo Booth Ideas

re you planning to set up a photo booth at your wedding? If you do, your guests will love hamming it up in front of the camera, and you’ll wind up with a slew of fun, candid mementos. Here are some backdrop ideas for a photo booth you’ll love.

• Sequins. For an old Hollywood feel, choose white, silver or gold. Or put a modern spin on it and choose reversible sequins that your guests can play with to change the look.

• Flowers. A wall of flowers is the perfect romantic backdrop. Match the blooms to your wedding colours or opt for white or red roses. Alternatively, create an ombre effect from light to dark using a variety of flowers in an array of hues.

• Balloons. The trick to nailing a balloon backdrop is to use balloons in various sizes and shapes. Choose pastel tones for a soft look or go for bright colours for a more whimsical touch.

• Wood. A wall of wood planks decorated with ivy and twinkle lights will make your guests feel like they’re hanging out on your back porch. This backdrop is wellsuited to a rustic or country themed wedding.

Don’t forget to include props to take photos with. Frames, hats and mustaches on sticks are classic, as are comic book-style word bubbles with fun messages on them.

Courtesy Crystal and Twigs

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Prepare a grab bag for your dog with their treats, bowls, toys, food and anything else you think they might need. It’s also a good idea to designate someone to take care of your pooch during the day’s events.

How To Involve Your Dog In Your Wedding

f you’re getting married and want your pooch to be a part of the wedding, here are three ways you can incorporate your canine companion into the big day.

AS A RING BEARER

Place your wedding rings in a small box and attach it to your dog’s collar. During the ceremony, call your dog to the alter or have someone guide Fido up the aisle to present the rings.

AS A GUEST

If some of your other guests have

dogs, you may want to set up a fenced-in area where all the pooches can play together. However, it’s probably best to place this area away from the main party.

AS A MODEL

Pets are photogenic. Why not include your dog in your wedding photos? Your pup is sure to enjoy the time away from the party.

Remember, your dog should look their best for your big day. Consider making an appointment with your pet’s groomer.

A Family is Life’s Greatest Blessing

Stunning Wedding/Event Venue centered in quad-cities near Uniontown & Genesee

Photographer: Matt Leitholt

Let’s get social: @thebarnatmaderfarm www.thebarnatmaderfarm.com themaderbarn@gmail.com |

Planning

continued from page 6

think about what to do if it rains, how to keep your guests warm in the evening and if there’s a need to ward off bugs.

3. Set and keep a budget. Wedding costs can escalate quickly, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your budget. Consider placing all your important documents and bills in a binder and only using one credit card to pay for your wedding expenses.

4. Determine if kids will be involved. Decide if you want to invite little ones to your wedding. If children are welcome, specify whether they must be under parental supervision or if childcare will be provided.

5. Keep a list of contacts. You must co-ordinate many different people and services on your big day, including the caterer and DJ. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep all important phone numbers on hand leading up to and during the wedding.

If you want to make sure you don’t forget anything on your big day, consider working with an experienced wedding planner.

Venue

continued from page 4

2. Budget. Establish a realistic budget and stick to it. Wedding venues come in all price ranges. With good planning, you should be able to find one that suits your needs.

3. Availability. Popular venues can fill up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. Be flexible with your wedding date or be prepared to book well in advance.

4. Capacity. Ensure the venue can comfortably fit all the people on your guest list. A venue that’s too large for your guest count may feel empty, while a cramped space can make everyone feel uncomfortable.

5. Packages. Many venues offer wedding package deals that can simplify the planning process. These offers may include catering, decor and other essential services. Review what each package includes and consider whether it aligns with your vision for the wedding.

To make the best decision, tour various local venues to get a feel for each space before finalizing your choice.

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Courtesy Red Barn Farms

Courtesy Crystal & Twigs

Courtesy Hells Canyon Grand Hotel