Wedding Planner, Part 1, February 2023

Diamond Purchasing 101

Courtesy The Diamond Shop

Choosing the perfect ring can seem overwhelming for you and your significant other. Let us break it down so that you can be sure to ask the right questions, choose the ring of your dreams and feel confident that you made the right choice.

First things first, a diamond is graded according to the “4 C’s” – Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight. The 4C’s can help you to understand the unique characteristics and pricing of each stone.

#1 - Cut defines the way the stone is faceted to bring out the natural beauty of the diamond. If a diamond is not cut at the correct angles, the light leaks out through the back of the stone. You want a diamond to give back every bit of light that it takes in. A diamonds cut is considered to be the most important metric of the 4C’s.

#2 - Color refers to the body color of the diamond. A colorless stone is one of the most sought after of all diamonds. The less color, the higher the grade. Color is graded at D for colorless and runs all the way to Z for diamonds that have a fancy color such as bright yellow, pink or even red.

#3 - Clarity is determined by what type of inclusion is inside or outside the diamond. This is judged by a trained professional using 10x magnification. Flawless represents a stone that is without any form of inclusion and causes an increase in price. A stone that is graded SI or I is a diamond with obvious inclusions that can easily be seen by the gemologist and is much more common. Most diamonds contain very tiny natural inclusions. However, the fewer and smaller the inclusions, the less likely it is that they will interfere with the passage of light through the diamond.

#4 – Carat weight is the actual weight

of the diamond. It is a natural fact that the larger the diamond, the rarer it is. Rarity is what sets a diamond apart from all the other diamonds in the world today.

If you meet with a jeweler that is not willing to discuss what you’re buying through the 4 C’s, you can calmly walk (OR RUN!) away, knowing that you’re making a good decision.

Bonus “C” – Coverage can ease your mind before, during and after the buying process. If you’re going to spend thousands of dollars on the perfect ring, make sure to ask about insuring it! A standalone jewelry policy can cover the value of the piece whether it’s lost, stolen, or damaged. Couple an insurance policy with The

Diamond Shop’s Permanent Diamond Value on every center stone and you’re covered for a lifetime. What that means is that your stone never loses its value. The amount you pay is the amount you receive towards your next purchase when it’s time to upgrade.

While everyone has different preferences and there is no “right answer” as to how a diamond should look, asking the right questions can help ease anxiety during the buying process. The Diamond Shop has been in the business for 97 years and counting. Our entire staff is trained, professional and here to answer any questions you have regarding choosing, purchasing and caring for the perfect diamond!

Wedding Day Emer gency Kit

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Unfortunately, the unexpected happens — and you’ll want to be ready.

Preparing early helps alleviate worries about common mishaps that add unneeded stress during your nuptials.

Don’t let your big event become marred by makeup disasters, torn clothing, or even a sudden pang of hunger. Packing a wedding day emergency kit helps ensure that

none of that gets in the way as you prepare to walk down the aisle.

Touching Up

You’ll be primped, prepared and dressed long before it’s time to say your vows, meaning there will be plenty of time for something to potentially go wrong. So keep critical beauty supplies nearby for any needed touch ups with your makeup, hair and perfume.

Emergency

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Selecting the Right Space

When it comes to your wedding reception venue, there’s plenty of creative options to make sure all of your needs are met. From churches to barns, boutique hotels or restaurants, your options are limitless.

And while large-group restrictions may be a barrier in being able to secure one of these venues in the short-term, it’s never too early to start mapping out how you’d like your perfect day to go.

Space

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Family is Life’s Greatest Blessing

Stunning

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Courtesy I Do Wedding Coordinating

Photographer: Matt Leitholt

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

Courtesy Thirsty Traveler

Courtesy Red Barn Farm

Courtesy I Do Wedding Coordinating

Courtesy Lodge at River’s Edge

Storing your Wedding Dress

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If you receive your wedding dress well in advance or are experiencing a wedding postponement, you may be wondering how to properly store your dress.

Gowns are a big expense and keeping them properly maintained can give you confidence that you are protecting your investment.

There are some steps to take to ensure your gown is in flawless condition for your special day.

Your boutique or local bridal salon will be able to give you specific instructions on best care and storage, but the best guidance is typically in a dark, dry spot that doesn’t have access to direct light. Something else to keep in mind is that humidity and direct sunlight can cause bleaching or fabric decay. Follow the tips below to make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your gown in perfect shape.

Closet Storage

If you plan on storing your wedding dress in your closet, experts recommend you use the hanger straps to keep everything in the best shape possible. You should also utilize a breathable fabric storage bag instead of a

plastic bag, especially throughout the warmer months. This will help keep moisture buildup to a minimum, which will help reduce the chance of stubborn odors creeping in.

Storing Heavier Gowns

Some experts provide specifications for even heavier material, which can include ornate beading or structured lace. These extra items can weigh down the dress and damage it if it’s hanging for too long a time period. In that case, you may be better off taking the gown off the hanger, placing a sheet down on your bed and folding the gown into the sheet for flat storage. Once you have it folded it up, you can place it in your closet or under your bed for safe-keeping.

Don’t Forget Your Bridesmaids

The same dress storage rules apply for other members of your bridal party. And on top of storage, experts recommend that you try your dress on once per month, every month until the event.

This will help ensure a proper-fitting dress come wedding time. This can be particularly important advice if you have a dress that has been altered.

Photo Courtesy Mader Farm

CourtesyLodge at River’s Edge

Green Weddings

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Keep the Earth in mind by creating a sustainable event with less waste

With environmental and climate concerns on the rise, more couples are taking an eco-friendly approach.

That may mean using fewer disposable products, cutting down on fossil fuel or emissions associated with the big day or focusing on sustainable practices.

Taken together, these small changes can have a big impact on the world around you.

Eco-Friendly Vendors

Start by looking for wedding-day vendors that share your focus on protecting the planet and creating a healthier environment. Whether it’s a reliance on sustainably created invitations or fun new creations like paper flower bouquets, they can do a lot for our environment simply by using materials that rely on recycled paper or alternative fibers. Other earth-focused

companies pledge to plant a new tree with every order. Look for other environmentally sound practices on company websites and handout materials.

Get Creative With Reuse

Borrow as many details as possible from the world around you. In this way, leaves can become placards. Vines and wildflowers

Photos Courtesy Big Canyon Acres & I Do Wedding Coordinating

Optimize Your Flower Budget

ways to the get the most of your flower budget.

After your dress, nothing is more visible at the wedding

If the national average is any indication, they’ll be a big part of your expenses, too.

Before you spend thousands on high-priced blossoms, however, carefully consider your options. The wrong choice can lead to unneeded expense, and there are lots of creative

Go Seasonal

We all have that special favorite flower. Oftentimes, however, this single decision can raise the costs substantially. You can save money by blending in seasonal foliage, which will be less expensive since it’s readily available. Ask

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Event Venue & Historic Orchard

What to Look For In a Caterer

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Several factors come into play when making this critical decision.

It’s easy to focus solely on the food, of course, but there are other considerations.

You’ll want to start by looking at their history, including licensing and referrals. Then ask critical questions that will get to the bottom of the services they provide.

Background Check

Look for licensed catering companies or restaurants. This will ensure that they meet or exceed certain industry standards, but it also may be essential to holding the ceremony. Depending on the venue, management may actually require that this credential is in place. Ask about the vendor’s history of catering weddings. How

many have they previously handled — and how many of these previous ceremonies matched your location and specific needs? You may not be comfortable with letting a novice take over such an

important task. Ask friends and family for their input, and study online reviews and recommendations.

Confirm The Price

If you have a special menu request or are hosting a themed

Courtesy Thirsty Traveler

wedding, share that upfront. Beyond the question of their experience in handling such things, it may change how

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Courtesy Lindsey Creek Vineyards

PhotosCourtesy Red Barn Farm

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

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

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 ����������������������������������������

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 ����������������������������������������� Telephone

Her place of employment (include city)

Occupation:

Her parents’ names and city of residence

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

THE BRIDEGROOM

Full legal name

His city of residence ������������������������������������������ Telephone

His place of employment (include city)

Occupation:

His parents’ names and city of residence

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.

Courtesy Big Canyon Acres

Courtesy Jessie Frost Photography

Courtesy Twin Creeks Farm