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BRIDAL GUIDE 6 7 8 10 11 12 12 13 14 14 16 19 19 20 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36
Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life Make the first dance even more special Get married to the idea of hiring a wedding planner How to build your wedding budget How couples can benefit from hiring local vendors Wedding invitations tip sheet Did you know? "Plus one" etiquette for weddings Hot trends in wedding cuisine Did you know? How to find the right wedding photographer Get a grip on your guest list Did you know? Changing your last name Dressing for wedding day comfort Makeup tips for brides and bridesmaids Serious wedding style for short-haired brides Great wedding gift ideas for the bride & groom Wedding good luck charms The basics of shopping for wedding rings Tips for writing your own vows Wedding thank-you card writing etiquette Did you know? Affordable bachelor & bachelorette party ideas Rustic bouquets add natural flair to wedding celebrations Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances Tips when choosing a honeymoon Index
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At Dunham’s Bay Resort, your wedding is what matters most. Whether it’s an intimate plated affair for ten or a grand dinner for two hundred, Dunham’s Bay Resort treats you with care, consideration, and the constant knowledge that it is your special day. Customize & Create your Special Day ~ Overnight Accommodations Available ~ One Wedding a Day
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Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life Making the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help. Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity. Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs,
fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning. While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks. Plus, they're portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding. Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach
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receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board. To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you. As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric
swatches and pictures of particular looks. Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials.Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources. Anything you come across in your daily life , such as windowshopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit may inspire some creativity.
Make the first dance even more special Donna Summer may have sung about making the most of life with her song 'Last Dance' in the 1970s, but during a wedding reception most of the focus is on the first dance of the evening when the newlyweds take to the dance floor for the first time after tying the knot. Not only does the first dance give the couple an opportunity to shine on the dance floor, but it also can help set the tone for the reception to follow. A couple's first dance is significant. Traditionally, the first dance was performed to a slow waltz, but now the first dance is not governed by any rules. Many couples like to push boundaries or get creative with their first dances, and this can make the wedding even more memorable.
In fact, some couples enroll in dance classes or enlist the help of choreographers to ensure an epic opening dance number. Social media is full of videos of innovative couples performing spot-on dance routines from classic dance movies like 'Dirty Dancing' or beautifully choreographed dances to popular first dance songs such as 'At Last' or 'Can't Help Falling in Love.' Whether a couple wants to perform an intricate tango or simply wants to sway to the music on the first dance, here are some pointers to keep in mind. n Choose a wedding song that has meaning. It may be fun to do a dance routine to DNCE's 'Cake by the Ocean,' but remember your first dance song will forever be
First dances are a memorable moment for not only the bride and groom, but for guests as well. linked to your life as a couple. Select a song that has deep meaning to you. Read over the lyrics to make sure it's an appropriate wedding song. n Tame those nerves. Practicing is a way to feel more confident in your steps, and that will help keep nerves at bay. Many couples experience a bit of stage fright. Just keep in mind that these friends and family are at the wedding to support you and not judge your dance moves.
n Work with a professional. If you desire something more intricate for the first dance and you have the budget to pay for some dance lessons, go for it. An instructor can take you through dance basics or help you choreograph a more polished piece. First dances are memorable moments at wedding receptions. Guests can't wait to hear the song couples choose, and some couples exceed guests' expectations with their impressive moves.
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Get married to the idea of hiring a wedding planner Couples see their weddings as not only the start of a new life together, but also as one of the most important organizational jobs they may ever encounter. Looking at weddings in the latter light makes it easy to see why many couples hire professional wedding planners.
and picking out bouquet colors might be exciting, but figuring out how many tipsy wedding guests can fit in a shuttle bus back to a hotel may not. Wedding planners can step in when necessary to handle the more mundane tasks, like organizing receipts or putting together guest toiletry baskets.
n Planners can help establish a budget. Wedding plan-
Many couples initially eschew the idea of hiring wedding planners. But when it comes to wedding expertise, professional planners can guide couples in all the right directions, ultimately helping them save money overall.
n Planners may be privy to discounts. Some planners may
n Planners can free up time.
Expertise is not the only advantage to hiring a wedding planner. These people are often skilled at negotiations and can serve as buffers between couples and vendors. Brides and grooms also can rely on wedding planners to avoid to succumbing to the stress of planning their weddings. The following are some other reasons why hiring a wedding planner can be a smart move.
n Planners handle the notso-fun parts. Trying cake flavors
have long-lasting professional relationships with vendors, and these relationships may help couples get better prices on certain services. Planners also have the expertise to advise on which purchases are smart and which may be unnecessary.
n Properly vet vendors and stay on top of deadlines. Wedding planners can investigate all vendors and be in charge of getting them paid on time. Planners also can keep track of upcoming deadlines, ensuring that all parties arrive on time to rehearsals, fittings, appointments, and, of course, the wedding.
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ners can assist couples in developing their wedding budgets. Because they know how much many services cost, planners can provide accurate estimates on wedding bills and how to allocate funds. When couples are not bogged down with running errands or scheduling every detail of the wedding, they can enjoy the time
leading up to their weddings even more. That means more time can be spent planning the honeymoon. Weddings are multifaceted events that require substantial forethought. Wedding planners help keep couples on task, on budget and less stressed.
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How to build your wedding budget Couples engaged to be married have a lot on their plates as they begin planning their weddings. Whereas tradition once demanded parents of the bride pay for a couple's wedding, nowadays more and more engaged couples are completely or partially financing their own nuptials. That means prospective brides and grooms must develop wedding budgets that won't ensure their first act as Mr. and Mrs. is paying down debt. In its 2015 Real Weddings Study, online bridal resource The Knot found that many couples still receive substantial financial support from their parents to pay for their weddings. The survey found that, on average, the bride's parent's contributed 44 percent of the overall wedding budget in 2015. Couples who hope to follow that formula or pay for their weddings on their own can heed the following tips to build wedding budgets that won't break the bank but will still ensure a day to remember forever.
n Examine your collective finances. Few couples know the details of each other's finances before getting engaged. While some may still hesitate to share
budgets by telling themselves that they will ultimately get the money back via wedding gifts. While many guests will give financial gifts, counting on such windfalls is a recipe for accruing debt. Do not build potential wedding gifts into your wedding budget. If you do so and your expectations fall short, you could be facing considerable debt upon returning home from your honeymoon.
n Gather quotes before choosing where to tie the knot. Where couples get married Budgets can help couples stay on track and avoid debt as they plan their weddings. their personal financial information upon getting engaged, an open and honest discussion and examination of each person's finances is the only way to develop a realistic wedding budget that both partners can live with.
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Once couples know what they can contribute, they can then consult their parents to determine if their mothers and fathers are intending to contribute.
n Develop a preliminary guest list. A preliminary guest list can give couples an idea of how large and expensive their weddings will be. According to the Real Weddings Study, the average cost per wedding guest in 2015 was $237. While that cost can vary greatly depending on geography and other factors, couples should keep that figure in mind when drafting their guest lists. If need be, keep costs down by trimming the guest list so it includes only close family members and friends.
n Don't count on gifts. Many couples justify runaway wedding
will have a great impact on how much money they will spend on their weddings. For example, the Real Weddings Study found that, in 2015, the average wedding in Manhattan cost couples slightly more than $82,000, while the average Alaskan wedding cost just over $17,000. Venues within the same city can vary greatly with regard to pricing and offerings as well, so couples should give themselves ample time to gather quotes and find an affordable venue they like.
n Build extra costs into your budget. When determining a budget you can live with, remember to include a little extra for unforeseen costs. Weddings are large undertakings, and it's reasonable to expect some unforeseen costs to arise. Building such costs into your initial budget will make these unforeseen circumstances that much easier to handle.
How couples can benefit from hiring local vendors Local vendors are often a go-to choice when couples are planning their wedding ceremonies and receptions. As the 'shop local' movement grows in popularity, weddings present a prime opportunity to embrace this movement. Couples may have different ideas regarding where to tie the knot, but local vendors can be hired regardless of geography. Brides magazine says the biggest factor influencing wedding location is the size of the guest list and the number of people who wouldn't be able to attend if the wedding was in a particular locale. Hometowns might be the traditional choice regarding wedding location, but the XO Group says one in four couples now host destination weddings. Once couples choose a town or city to host their weddings, they can begin exploring the benefits of working with locally-based vendors.
Familiarity Local vendors will be familiar with the area and possibly even the location where the wedding will be held. That can help couples avoid having to give directions, discuss venue protocols, and handle other tasks that must be worked out with nonlocal vendors. For example, local photographers familiar with a particular venue will know all of the best places to get shots, and some vendors may have preexisting relationships with venue representatives that could ensure wedding day operations go smoothly.
Proximity Local vendors can meet with brides and grooms more readily throughout the planning process, making things less stressful on the happy couple. This also makes it easier to drop off deposits, attend meetings, make fitting appointments, or attend styling sessions.
Local vendors have intimate knowledge of the areas they serve, and that can make for a more personalized, ecofriendly wedding.
Savings Couples who travel for their weddings and employ local vendors will not have to pack as much. Using local vendors eliminates the need to bring along bulky dresses, decorative items, flowers, and much more. Plus, couples needn't pay to transport and house vendors brought along from back home.
Environment Individuals who take great strides to conserve resources by reducing their energy consumption and protecting the environment often find that shopping local is beneficial. Local vendors are more likely to source their
materials from other local businesses, reducing their carbon footprints along the way. For example, local caterers may rely on local farmers for their foods, affording couples the chance to host eco-friendly or even farmto-table weddings.
Customization Working with local vendors often translates into getting more personalized service and attention than mass retailers or merchants can provide. Going local when choosing wedding vendors is an increasingly popular choice among couples about to tie the knot.
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Wedding invitations tip sheet Wedding invitations often provide guests with a first glimpse of a wedding’s style. Invitations also may serve as the means by which distant friends and relatives find out about a couple’s pending nuptials if a formal announcement was not made. Couples should keep certain things in mind as they begin to design their wedding invitations. n Have a good idea of your potential guest list. Before shopping for wedding invitations, it is key to have a strong idea of just how big the wedding will be and how many guests will be invited. This way you will know how many invitations you will need. Invitations vary in price, so cost may be a consideration if your guest list is extensive. n Decide on the formality of the wedding. Will you be hosting a black tie affair, or will it be a casual gathering at the shore? Guests infer many things about the wedding from the invitations, which should match the formality of the event in style and the sentiments expressed. An ornate invi-
tation written with classic wording suggests a more formal affair, while a whimsical invitation with less formal wording could indicate a more laid-back event. n Dare to be different by playing with invitation sizes and shapes. Rectangular cards are standard for wedding invitations, but you can explore your creativity by choosing more modern, artsy invitations. Circular invites or scalloped edges can add some whimsy to the wedding mood. Invitations that fold out or are embellished with ribbon or other decorations can be appealing. Just keep in mind that cards that are not the standard shape and size could be more costly to send. Always have the entire wedding invitation weighed and priced at the post office so you will know what the postage will cost. n Choose a legible font and text color. Your invitation may look beautiful, but it may prove ineffective if it is difficult to read. Do not risk guests misinterpreting the date or the location because they cannot read the writing on the invitation.
n Keep the invitation simple. It may be tempting to load the invitation with lots of information, but all you really need are the key pieces of information, such as the “who,” “what,” “where,” and “when.” Crowding the card will take away from its aesthetic appeal. Most stationers will suggest a separate, smaller insert in the wedding invitation for the reception information and response card. Never put information such as where you are registered or “no kids allowed.” This is material better reserved for word of mouth or on a wedding Web site. n Do some math. It is important to know your dates so you can receive the invitations on time, mail them out, and give guests enough time to respond. A good rule of thumb is to mail out the invitations at least two months before the wedding. Have an RSVP date of no more than three to four weeks before the wedding, giving ample time to the caterers and accommodating anyone who procrastinates in sending in a response. You
Did you know? Many people feel the type of flowers chosen for wedding ceremonies symbolize different things. While some couples may make their final decision on wedding day flowers based cost, they may be surprised to know what different flowers have traditionally symbolized. For example, according to TheKnot.com, a multiplatform resource for all things nuptial, roses have long been considered a symbol of beauty and love. Writers and poets alike have long relied on roses as metaphors for emotion, beauty and true love. Lily of the valley is another popular flower that's more than just a natural beauty. Though lily of the valley is one of the more expensive flowers couples can choose for their weddings, some legends link the flower to happiness, while followers of England's royal family no doubt remember that lily of the valley was the flower chosen by Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton for her 2011 wedding to Prince William.
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will need the final headcount in order to confirm seating arrangements and plan for centerpieces and favors. n Handwrite the envelopes. Your invitation will look more impressive if you address them by hand, rather than printing them off of a computer. If your handwriting is not very neat, consider hiring a professional calligrapher to write out your envelopes. n Make it easy for guests to respond. Be sure to place a stamp on the response card envelope and have that envelope already addressed with your home address so that guests will have no excuses not to mail a response back promptly. n Always order extra. Mistakes happen, and you may need to send out a few extra invitations that you hadn’t originally counted. Always order extra invitations just to be on the safe side. And don’t forget you will probably want to keep one as a keepsake for yourself.
"Plus one" etiquette for weddings Couples tying the knot typically want to share their excitement with as many friends and family members as possible. Preliminary wedding guest lists can be quite extensive, but many couples ultimately shorten such lists in adherence to their budgets. One fuzzy area in regard to guest lists is whether or not to include a "plus one" on the invitation for single friends or family members. A "plus one" refers to single guests' dates. Party planners may extend the courtesy of giving single guests the choice of whether they would like to bring someone along to the event or attend solo. The rules concerning plus ones are flexible, and ultimately, it may be up to the couple to create their own plus-one rules. The following tips can help couples determine which way to go.
tionship status they currently claim. For example, a cousin who has been dating someone for several months can be encouraged to invite this serious boyfriend/ girlfriend. Recently divorced or widowed guests may not feel comfortable bringing a date along, but because this person was in a committed relationship so long, it may be well worth the courtesy to allow these types of guests to bring someone along so they can feel more comfortable. Etiquette experts at The Knot say that, whenever possible, all guests should be addressed by name on the invitation. Couples can ask single friends whether they plan to bring a date to the wedding and who their dates might be.
Number of single friends
Length of relationship One way to set limits on plus ones is to look at invitees on a case-bycase basis. Think about unmarried guests and the type of rela-
Another consideration is how many single people will be invited to the wedding. If it's a small number, a blanket plus-one rule
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Weddings can be complicated to plan, and negotiating plus ones for single guests is part of that planning. can be established. However, if many guests are single, which tends to happen when young couples are getting married, the cost can be prohibitive. Single friends and family can be seated together so that they can converse and have fun.
For the guests It's important for people on the receiving end of a wedding invitation to understand some key plusone rules as well. n If the invitation does not say "plus one" or "and guest," that means you have been invited alone. It is rude to bring a guest unexpectedly.
n Avoid asking to bring someone to the wedding if you were not originally given the option. n If you were given plus-one status, be sure to respond with your guest's name. If you can't confirm who you will be bringing or don't know if you will have a date for the evening, it is better to come alone. n Don't use the plus one as a chance to bring a friend only for the free food and drinks. Weddings can be complicated to plan, and negotiating plus ones for single guests is part of that planning.
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Hot trends in wedding cuisine Once a couple has officially tied the knot, the newly recognized man and wife and all of their guests will retire to a party room where they can mingle, dance and enjoy a good meal. In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus. But today's weddings cater to people of various culinary tastes, and couples and their guests can expect more upscale and creative cuisine to be rolled out for wedding receptions. The following are a handful of the more popular trends with regard to wedding cuisine.
Miniature bites Many people say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right. Instead of large meals that fill guests up fast, they can munch on smaller bites of their favorite dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.
plates located in the center of the tables.
Food and beverage pairings Food-forward wedding couples are offering guests mouthwatering appetizers matched with a cocktail. A slider and a craft beer or a dumpling and a shot of saki are examples of this trend.
Nontraditional 'fake' cakes
Couples are starting to get more creative when it comes to wedding day cuisine.
Gourmet comfort food People love familiar comfort foods, but now gourmet comfort foods are shaking up wedding receptions. Mac-and-cheese with gouda and brie or chicken pot pie with a puff-pastry crust are a few offerings that can add glamour to down-home cooking.
Interesting buffet stations Keep guests on their toes with various meal stations. A bountiful display of artisanal cheeses, fruits and breads will be a cheese
lover's dream. These stations also can be appetizing focal points around the room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they like best.
Family style Rustic and informal weddings have grown in popularity. Rather than food being brought to the guests or participants lining up in buffet lines, family-style dining allows guests to share conversation and pass the peas at the same time. Larger, rectangular tables allow more guests to sit with one another and serve themselves food from community
Did you know? The phrase "tying the knot" is synonymous with getting married. Although the words can represent the symbolic joining of two lives together, in some cultures, getting married actually requires tying a knot. The custom traces its origins to an ancient Babylonian tradition in which threads from the clothes of both the bride and groom were tied in a knot to represent the couple's union. Other cultures have embraced this tradition, and couples tie ceremonial knots during their wedding ceremonies.
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Instead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad that is starting to fizzle, couples are now opting for something new. Desserts that mimic the look of cake, but aren't quite that combination of sponge and frosting are trending. Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable and can add a creative spark to the cake-cutting ceremony. When offered along with dessert stations, guests can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.
Vegan and gluten-free options Chances are one or more people attending the reception will be on a restricted diet. Rather than relegate these guests to dining on side dishes and patchwork meals, certain couples are building entire offerings around vegan and gluten-free foods. Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings. Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well.
Manchester Newspapers • Bridal Guide 2018 • 15
How to find the right wedding photographer Long after the final toast has been made or the last couple has left the dance floor, wedding photos will help couples relive the wonderful memories of their ceremonies and receptions. Wedding photographers realize the important role photography plays in a wedding. Photos are how couples document their nuptials, and the right photographer can make all the difference. The following tips can help guarantee a successful wedding shoot and beautiful photos to recall the best moments of the day. n Seek referrals. There are scores of wedding photographers, and some are better than others. Word of mouth from other couples can help. Referrals can offer insight into a photographer’s personality and his or her abilities to work with the wedding party and guests throughout the day.
Wedding photos help couples relive the wonderful memories of their ceremony and reception.
n Communication is key. An important component of wedding photography actually starts well before the wedding day. The way a photographer communicates with you about your wishes and desired shots is very important, as this is
when to discuss specific shots you want taken during the ceremony, such as whether the bride wants to be seen and pose with the groom prior to tying the knot. In addition, this is a great time for the photographer to get familiar
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Bridal Guide 2018
with each venue’s rules regarding vendors. n Choose a photographer who is confident and firm. A good photographer will be able to direct photo subjects and get everyone to participate and in line. Brides and grooms likely won’t want to handle such tasks on their own, so a confident and firm yet cordial photographer can be an invaluable asset. n Prepare a shoot list. Meet with the photographer before the wedding and provide a list of all the shots you absolutely need to get. This way the photographer can plan for these as well as capture the candid moments throughout the day. n Discuss a backup plan with the photographer. Mishaps happen, even on the
most carefully planned wedding day. Discuss what the photographer does to safeguard your digital photo files. Are they backed-up to a cloud or a secured offsite server? Does the photographer bring along a second camera in case the primary one has a malfunction? What happens if he or she is ill on the day of the wedding? How is a replacement chosen? Understanding how the photographer adapts to unforseen situations can make you feel more confident in choosing one photographer instead of another. The camera gear should also have adequate memory to store all of the photos, and a few backup batteries can’t hurt, either. n Consider hiring a photographer’s assistant or second shooter. The photographer is less likely to miss a shot or fail to capture various perspectives of the wedding if he or she works with a partner. While one photographer is doing close-up portraits, the other may be capturing candid moments from onlookers from another angle. n Know what each package includes. The photographer should clearly spell out which items and services are included as part of the contract. There should be no surprises when it’s time to pay the balance of the photographer’s fees, so go over each itemized detail to be sure the package in your contract is the one you really want. n Get to know the photographer as a person. It can be difficult to loosen up in front of the lens, particularly if you do not have a good rapport with the photographer. Do not judge the photographer on his or her body of work alone. You will likely grow more comfortable with the photographer if you get to know him or her in the months leading up to your wedding.
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Get a grip on your guest list Cooperation is key for couples planning their weddings. Compiling the guest list is one area of wedding planning where couples oftentimes must embrace both cooperation and compromise. Putting together a wedding guest list can cause some tension. That tension may be confined to couples, but it may even occur between couples and their families. Getting a grip on their guest lists may be one of the more difficult tasks couples encounter when planning their weddings, but there are ways to make creating the guest list go smoothly.
n Recognize the need to compromise. Couples who recognize the need to compromise in advance of compiling their guest lists may find it easier to pare down that list if the initial number of guests is too high. Couples can create lists of people they want to invite, breaking these initial lists down into categories such as 'friends,' 'family,' 'acquaintances,' and 'coworkers.' Couples may not want to compromise on inviting friends and family, but each person should be willing to remove some coworkers and acquaintances from their final lists.
n Don't succumb to parental pressure if mom and dad are not paying the bills. Couples who are financing their own weddings should not feel beholden to their parents' wishes when compiling their wedding guest lists. Politely explain to parents you're working on a budget and that you have a predetermined number of guests you're capable of inviting. Couples can appease their parents by encouraging them to compile a list of people they hope to invite, and then telling them these people will be invited if other guests are unable to make it. Couples whose parents are footing some or all of the bill must be more receptive to their parents' wishes than those paying for their own weddings.
Getting a grip on their guest lists may be one of the more difficult tasks couples encounter when planning their weddings. make sense, especially if it's been gets tough. When all else has failed, couples faced with difficult decisions regarding their wedding guest lists can ask themselves if prospective guests are people they expect to see again in the future or if they are people from their past. Including the former might be a good idea, while removing the latter may also
a long time since couples have seen people who fall into the 'past' category. Creating the guest list is one of the more difficult parts of planning a wedding. But couples willing to compromise may find the process goes smoothly.
n Agree on a kids policy. A policy regarding kids may help couples as they create their guest lists. Couples working with tight budgets may decide that the only children who will be invited are their nieces and nephews. Young cousins likely won't feel slighted if they don't make the cut, and their parents may even appreciate a night out without the kids in tow.
n Employ the 'future versus past' formula when paring
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Changing your last name While many brides opt to take their husbands' surnames upon tying the knot, over the years the popularity of such a decision has ebbed and flowed. Recent years have suggested the practice is once again gaining steam. A 2011 study published in Names: A Journal of Onomastics indicates that younger brides are more likely to embrace the tradition of taking their husbands' names in marriage. According to the study, women who married between the ages of 35 and 39 were 6.4 times more likely to keep their maiden names than those who married between the ages of 20 and 24. Many brides view taking their spouse's name as the natural
transition from being a singleton to being a married woman. Other brides prefer they share the same last name as their future children, making the choice to take their husband's name a logical decision. Some brides feel having the same last name as their husbands helps them feel more like a family.
Although a large percentage of women still change their last names upon getting married, many carefully weigh the pros and cons of such a change before making their final decisions.
Changing one's name also may make it easier to deal with various issues. Finances, travel and even parenting concerns may be easier when women take their husbands' last names than when they don't.
rificing their personal identities, while others may want to hold on to a family name they are proud of. Interesting names also can be hard to give up. Brides who find taking their husband's name would be a tongue-twister may prefer to forego this tradition.
But some brides still prefer to keep their maiden names or hyphenate those names with their husbands' surnames. Some may view changing their names as sac-
Very often women who occupy positions of prominence in their professions keep their maiden names, feeling that taking their husbands' names will affect the
cache they have built up thus far. Women uncertain of what to do in such situations can keep their maiden names professionally and still change their names legally. Changing one's last name is a personal preference and a decision that couples should discuss together. Discuss the decision well in advance of the wedding so that both parties are aware of each other's feelings on the subject before tying the knot.
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Dressing for wedding day comfort Wedding attire is known more for style than comfort. Formal wear, high heels and the various trappings of wedding day wardrobes do not always equate to a day of comfort. While dressing up will never be the same as slipping into a well-worn pair of jeans, there are ways for brides, grooms and guests to be comfortable on the big day.
n Dress for the weather. It’s tempting to put appearances before comfort. However, wearing clothing without regard for the weather is a surefire way to be uncomfortable all day long. Choose lightweight fabrics for warm weather occasions, and heavier fabrics when attending a winter wedding. Wraps, short jackets, muffs, and decorative scarves allow women to cover up if there’s a chill from the weather or if air conditioning is set too cold. n Invest in alterations. Few people can wear clothing, especially formal attire, right off the rack. The services of a good tailor can prove invalu-
able. Shortened hemlines or tightened sleeves can make dresses fit better. Shapewear or support components may be added to the wedding gown so that extra undergarment layers can be avoided. The less you have to fuss with clothing, the more comfortable you will be. Try on your outfit without alterations and point out the areas that are bothersome. Is a bodice slipping down? Is the tuxedo jacket a little too snug? Speak with the tailor about what can be done to remedy the situation.
n Choose the right size. Formal wear is frequently governed by a different set of sizes from everyday attire. Formal items are cut smaller and more in line with high fashion couture sizing. Expect to have to go up in size with regard to formal gowns. Instead of concerning yourself with the size on the tag, focus on the fit. Squeezing into something that is too small can make you uncomfortable all evening long and inhibit your ability to enjoy yourself on
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Ensure those beautiful shoes are comfortable, as weddings often find brides and bridesmaids spending lots of time on their feet. the dance floor. Avoid discomfort (and split seams) by leaving some wiggle room in wedding day ensembles. n Focus on footwear. Guests’ eyes likely won’t be on your feet. Still, many people subject themselves to uncomfortable shoes all in the name of fashion. The fastest way to an unenjoyable time is having to sit out a wedding because your shoes are causing excruciating pain. New shoes sometimes need a period of breaking in, so wear them around the house to determine if they’re comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time. Women should opt for the lowest heel possible to avoid pressure on the balls and arches of their feet. Floor-length wedding gowns usually cover a bride’s feet, so she has more leeway with finding an attractive, yet
comfortable shoe. Outdoor weddings tend to be more casual than indoor affairs, and guests may be perfectly comfortable wearing sandals. n Brides can go minimalist. Wedding dresses range from ethereal sheaths to layered princess gowns. The more fabric, tulle, boning and crinoline in the gown, the heavier it will be. Heavy gowns can make it difficult to move around, particularly when dancing or visiting the restroom. Unless you have your heart set on a full Cinderella look, scale back on your gown. Comfort may not be a top priority when planning a wedding. But wedding guests and participants alike should dress with some manner of comfort in mind in order to make the day more enjoyable.
Makeup tips for brides and bridesmaids Few events are more photographed than weddings. Needless to say, wedding participants, from brides and grooms to the couples’ parents, hope to look their best for the celebrations. Women often find that well applied cosmetics can enhance their beauty and help ensure they are picture-perfect. Very often the key to wedding makeup is simplicity. Brides want their best features enhanced and have the makeup add to their beauty rather than outshine it. Brides want guests to notice their faces and gowns and not their makeup. Here are some other tips brides can employ in an effort to put their best faces forward. n Begin preparations a few days prior to the wedding. If you will be enhancing your skin color with a spray-tan, do so at least two days prior to the wedding. By the third day the color will set and appear more natural. The same idea applies to your brows. Tweezing, waxing and threading can create irritation and redness. Have your brows professionally shaped a few days
before the wedding and then do a minor touch-up with your tweezer the night before. This allows your skin to recover and redness to dissipate. n Start out with well hydrated and moisturized skin. Apply a few layers of moisturizer, preferably one with an SPF if you will be spending time out in the sun. n Match your foundation color to your natural skin color. When these colors don’t match, your face may look like it is a separate shade from your neck and decolletage. If you will be tanning, then find a shade that matches the tanned color. A foundation that has slightly yellow undertones will even out redness on the face and look better in photos. n Apply concealer to red spots or undereye circles after the foundation. Aim for a creamy, emollient concealer for under the eyes. A peach color that will contrast with the purple and blue tones of your eyelids. Putting on the concealer after the foundation means you will probably need less and won’t look like you’re caked with product. n Complement your lips and
Very often the key to wedding makeup is simplicity. eyes. Many brides like to play up their eyes on their wedding days. If you are going for a dramatic eye, opt for a more neutral lip, and vice versa. n Be subtle with blush. Use subtle blush in a peach-pink color to achieve that blushing bride appearance. Smile and apply the blush only to the apples of your cheeks. n Choose a long-lasting lip color that will hold up through kisses and smiles. Lip stains
work very well, as they provide that hint of color but wear well during the day. Another helpful tip is to perform a practice run prior to the wedding, taking some photographs to see how the makeup looks in pictures. Cameras and flashes can wash out makeup, so sometimes you need to apply just a little bit more than usual for it to show up on film. Don’t forget to stock up on oil-blotting papers to touch up your face during the day.
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Serious wedding style for short-haired brides On a day when all eyes and cameras will be trained on them, it's natural for brides and grooms tying the knot to want to look their best. As a result, many couples invest a portion of their budgets into spa and beauty treatments, with many even hiring salon stylists to ensure their wedding-day looks are flawless. Women with short hair may lament that they do not have many
options when styling their hair for their wedding days. Some may even consider growing out their locks. However, plenty of creative styles exist for ladies without long locks.
Experiment with color One way to "tress to impress" is to experiment with some color. Wellplaced highlights, balayage treat-
Color, embellishments, retro styles, and clever up-dos can set short bridal hairstyles apart. ments, ombre, or peek-a-boo underlights can add an extra spark to a bride's normal hairstyle. Speak with a qualified stylist about what you plan to achieve with a wedding-day look, so color can be applied correctly.
Retro glamour Brides may want to harken back to an era when glamour reigned supreme. Replicate one of the short styles of the 1940s or 1950s, paying homage to Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, or Judy Garland.
Braids and plaits Braids can add whimsy to shoulder-length or shorter hair. In addition, braids can anchor short locks when an up-do is desired. Braids can be placed into the front or rear crown of the head to look like a hair halo or crown.
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Use embellishments If short hair cannot be gathered into a braid or bun, you can opt for adorned pins, barrettes or headbands to add a touch of sparkle to the look. Ask a stylist to tease the crown of your hair to achieve a little more height and impact.
Half-up style Many women with short hair find that using bobby pins to pin up select areas of their hair can help achieve a partial up-do look without the need for longer locks. Experienced stylists will know how to manipulate hair effectively to create this look. Small tendrils of hair can be left free and curled for a less structured, more natural effect. Brides-to-be with short hair do not need to fret nor make drastic changes to their hairstyles to look beautiful on their wedding days. Short hair can be manipulated into many camera-ready creations.
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Great wedding gift ideas for the bride & groom Many people rely on bridal registries when buying wedding gifts for their loved ones. But for those who put off buying wedding gifts until registries have been picked clean, finding the right gift can sometimes be difficult. Even if men and women do not intend to buy wedding gifts directly off a couple's registry, it's best to first visit that registry to ensure that the gift that is ultimately purchased is not a duplicate gift. Shoppers who do know what to get the happy couple can consider the following gift ideas. n Luggage: Many couples put luggage on their wedding registries, so shoppers should double
check before purchasing any luggage for the happy couple. Couples about to go on their honeymoons may love a new set of sturdy luggage for their travels, while others with a love of travel may appreciate being able to replace luggage that's bore the brunt of their globetrotting in recent years. n Airline miles: Though it might be unconventional, gifting airline miles to the happy couple may save them hundreds of dollars. Men and women with ample airline miles should determine if their agreement allows them to transfer those miles to a loved one. If so, transferring the miles
won't cost the person doing the gifting any money out of pocket, but it can save couples substantial amounts of money on their next trip, including their honeymoon if they have yet to book one. n Experience: Many people have embraced gifting an experience instead of an item to their loved ones. Some companies even facilitate such gifts to newlyweds. Websites like Traveler's Joy allow couples to establish honeymoon registries, building them with activities and experiences they hope to enjoy on their trips. Loved ones can then gift money toward those activities, providing a win-
win situation for people who would prefer to gift an experience and ensuring couples' honeymoons will be that much more memorable.
n Cash: Cash may seem impersonal, but couples tying the knot will no doubt appreciate an infusion of cash after saying "I do." According to The Knot, the average wedding cost more than $35,000 in 2016. Even couples whose parents foot the bill for their weddings will appreciate having some extra money on hand that they can use on their honeymoons or put toward a home.
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Wedding good luck charms Couples' wedding days are special moments, ones they hope pave the way to a life filled with happiness and good fortune. That's why the bride and groom surround themselves with close friends and family who want to celebrate and support their new life joined together. Perhaps due to superstition or tradition, many couples employ some wedding day strategies to increase their good luck. The following are some of the symbols that couples may want to keep an eye out for on the day they walk down the aisle. n It's good luck for the bride to see a dove on the way to the wedding because doves symbolize peace and prosperity. Because doves mate for life, this symbol is
doubly beneficial on a couple's wedding day, as it can be a harbinger of a long, happy marriage and home. n Some brides believe sugar cubes tucked into their wedding gloves leads to a sweet union. n Hindu tradition states that rain on a wedding day is good luck. Rain is believed to be a symbol of fortune and abundance, especially after times of drought. What's more, rain can foretell a strong marriage. That's because a wet knot is more difficult to untie. n In Holland, well-wishers would plant pine trees outside of newlyweds' homes as a symbol of fertility and luck. n Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the
Spiders, doves and sugar cubes all can be symbols of good luck on couples' wedding days. way to their weddings. This is another symbol of good luck. n Some couples plan to marry during a full moon, because that can symbolize good luck and good fortune. n On a couple's wedding day, tears from a bride or a child during the ceremony is considered lucky. English folklore suggests that brides who discover spiders in their gowns are in for some good luck.
n The Chinese believe that lighting fireworks at their wedding ceremonies chases away evil spirits. A red umbrella also might be held over a Chinese bride to keep bad spirits at bay. n Many grooms do not see their brides in their wedding gowns before their wedding ceremonies, feeling it is bad luck if they do. Many brides also do not wear their complete wedding outfits prior to their big day.
Manchester Newspapers • Bridal Guide 2018 • 27
The basics of shopping for wedding rings Engagement ring purchases are usually a solo endeavor, with the groom having an idea of the ring style and color his bride-to-be prefers. But couples usually shop for their wedding ring sets together, and such excursions can be special and meaningful. Like many decisions couples make when planning their weddings, choosing rings comes down to personal preference. There are no steadfast rules when it comes to purchasing wedding rings, but some guidelines can make shopping far easier. As couples prepare to shop for rings, it can help for each person to list the attributes he or she
would like in a ring. This should include the type of metal, color, width, and even cost. A wedding band should complement the engagement ring but not be a perfect match. An ornate engagement ring might look better with a simple band, and vice-versa. Similarly cut gemstones also can complement an engagement ring. If the bride chooses to wear both her engagement ring and wedding band together on the same finger, she should choose a band that will accommodate the curves of uniquely shaped engagement rings. Couples can make some early choices even before they visit
jewelry stores. Narrow down your options so the experience will not be overwhelming. When the time comes to shop, give yourselves at least two months to browse and then choose the rings you like best. Lifestyle and daily routine should be considered at all times. These rings will be worn daily, and no one wants to fret about a ring being too delicate to stand up to everyday wear and tear. When getting rings sized, both the bride and groom should go when their fingers aren't swollen from exercise or early in the morning after they may have retained fluid. Shopping should take place when hands aren't too
hot or cold. This will allow the best size so the bands fit comfortably and will have enough wiggle room should fingers swell or shrink a little bit. People can protect their investments by keeping the ring on as much as possible and only removing it when engaging in demanding physical activity or when working with chemicals. Store the ring in a safe spot when you are not wearing it so you are less likely to lose it. Wedding rings can be purchased from any number of retailers. Just be sure the rings are of good quality and sellers stands by the craftsmanship.
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Tips for writing your own vows A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many couples, so brides and grooms wish for the event to be momentous and memorable. As such, couples are increasingly integrating personal nuances into their ceremonies and receptions to tailor weddings to their unique visions. The desire to include personalized wedding vows continues to be a popular trend. If you are considering personalized wedding vows, first realize that it may not be a simple task. That’s because you want the message conveyed to be dear to your heart, and that can be challenging when faced with the pressures and planning of the rest of the wedding. That isn’t to say that writing your own vows is impossible. Here are some guidelines for personalizing your ceremony with your own sentiments. n Be aware of ceremony guidelines. It is best to check with your officiant and confirm that personalized wedding vows are allowed. During civil ceremonies it’s often
acceptable to customize vows as you see fit. However, during religious ceremonies there may be lines of scripture that need to be read or certain passages required. Before you spend hours working on the task, be sure that it is allowed and that your spouse and you are on the same page. n Jot down your feelings. Answer some questions about what marriage means to you and how you feel about your spouse. Try to avoid trite sayings and think from your heart and personal experiences. Think about what is the most important thing you want to promise to your future partner. These notes can serve as the starting points for the actual vows. n Read inspirational writings. Perhaps there is an author or a poet who inspires you? You can quote certain writers in your vows or let the tone of their works help shape the words of your vows. There also are suggested wedding readings and other quotes about marriage readily available at the
Writing your own vows can be a way to include personal expressions of love into a couple’s wedding day. library or with a quick search online. n Decide on a tone. Although the day is based on love and affection, you may not feel comfortable spouting words of adoration in front of friends and family. Feel free to tap into your unique personality. Humor can be used if it aligns with the way you normally express your affections. Be sure to weave this tone into more traditional passages to create a cohesive expression of your feelings. n Establish an outline. Put together all of the words and phrases you’ve jotted down into an outline to help you organize the flow of the vows, using these words as a blueprint for the vows and building upon them. Make sure the vows will be concise. Aim for your entire
speech to be around 1 minute in length to keep everyone engaged and the ceremony moving along. n Put everything together. Draft your vows and then practice them by reading out loud. You want to avoid long sentences or anything that trips you up. Although large words may sound impressive, they could make the vows seem too academic and not necessarily heartfelt. Enlist the help of a friend or two to act as your audience to see if the vows sound good and are easily understandable. Public speaking is seldom easy, nor is finding the perfect words to convey feelings about a future spouse. However, with some practice and inspiration, anyone can draft personalized vows.
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Wedding thank-you they order their wedding invitations. This way the paper, font and style match the original invitations. In addition, it may be less expensive to order stationery as a package.
Weddings and gifts go handin-hand. Couples who are tying the knot can expect to receive scores of gifts, ranging from simple well-wishes to cash to items listed on their registries. Because gift-giving is tradition, couples should plan on spending some time writing thank-you notes to express gratitude to the people who were kind enough to give a gift. Contrary to popular belief, couples do not have a year’s grace period to mail out thank-you notes after the gift has been received or the wedding has taken place. According to the etiquette experts at The Emily Post Institute, all thank-you cards should be written and mailed within three months of receipt of a gift. It is preferable that
Thank you cards should typically be mailed within two weeks of the bridal shower and two months of the wedding. the thank-you be written directly after receipt of the gift, but time-strapped couples may not have the opportunity to do so. However, writing a
few thank-you cards every few days can alleviate having a giant pile to do later on. Many couples prefer to order thank-you stationery when
In some cases, a photography package may include thankyou notes with wallet-sized photos to include. Couples can then mail out a nice sentiment with a photo from the wedding. To keep with the etiquette time frame of thankyou notes, it is important to find out when the thank-you photos and cards will arrive first from the photographer. The thank-you sentiments should not be delayed by the photographer. For those interested in less expensive options, preprinted thank-you cards can be pur-
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card writing etiquette chased at a stationery store. There are many designs and price points available. Remember, it is not the card itself, but the thank-you that is important. As to the rules regarding those getting a thank-you, it is just about anyone who contributed in some part to the wedding, even if a verbal thanks was already offered. Anyone who provided an engagement, shower or wedding gift, those who gave gifts of money, anyone who hosted a party or shower, attendants in the wedding, people who may have housed wedding guests, parents of the bride and groom, suppliers and vendors, and employers who have wished couples well should all be included on the thank-you list.
Here are some other guidelines to follow. n Mail out a handwritten note to each and every person being thanked. n Do not use form letters or preprinted cards to which you simply add your signature. n Be sincere in your messages and try to mention the gift and what it will be used for. n Promptly respond to gifts that were received through the mail so the giver knows they arrived. n Never mention that you plan to return a gift or exchange it. n Mentioning the amount of a monetary gift is optional, but it does confirm to the giver that the right amount was
received.
doing so.
n A mass thank-you posted on social media is not adequate.
By adhering to thank-you card etiquette, couples will ensure their guests know that gifts and efforts to make the wedding special were appreciated.
n Even if you are late with writing out thank-you notes, that doesn’t exclude you from
Did you know? The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely. Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour. Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.
Manchester Newspapers • Bridal Guide 2018 • 31
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Bridal Guide 2018
Affordable bachelor and bachelorette party ideas Weddings can be expensive. Various sources estimate the average cost of weddings is anywhere from $26,000 to $31,000. Couples and their parents may bear the brunt of wedding expenses, but those who have accepted a role in the wedding party also can expect their share of expenses. Taking into account gifts, wardrobes, makeup, bridal showers, and travel, including getting to and from the bachelor/bachelorette party, bridal party members are on the hook for a lot of money when their friends or family members tie the knot. Many men and women like to travel for their bachelor/bachelorette parties, and cost-conscious bridal party members may be concerned about how expensive such parties can be. Pulling out all the stops can be exciting, but thereÕs no guarantee these types of parties will be more enjoyable than simpler soirŽes. Taking steps to control costs can help cost-conscious couples and their friends. The following are some affordable ideas that can be fun for all involved. n Bar or winery crawl: Partygoers typically want to enjoy a night out on the town, and traveling from one establishment to another can be a fun way to do just that. Everyone invited can set
themselves apart with a signature item (hat, T-shirt, or colored clothing), and make the rounds. n Attend a group event: Group events include sporting events, concerts, theater shows, or a night at a comedy club. Investigate discounted tickets for large groups. n Belt out the tunes: Open mic nights at restaurants, bars and other establishments around town may make for a fun way for friends to share a few laughs together. Participants need not be professional singers to join in on the festivities. n Camp out: Get in touch with nature by enjoying a camping trip, complete with a campfire and a few brews. Spending time in the wilderness can restore focus and let stress melt away. n Poker or game night: Groups can gather around the poker table to test their skills in poker and other card games. With some free-flowing beverages and snacks galore, games can get pretty animated. n Dinner party: Hire a chef to visit your house and prepare a meal for guests. Serve a signature cocktail and let the conversation flow. Bachelor and bachelorette parties can be affordable without sacrificing fun.
Rustic bouquets add natural flair to wedding celebrations Couples opting to get back to basics, streamline their nuptials and create more intimate and less superficial affairs often gravitate toward rustic celebrations to showcase their ideals. Rustic weddings also may appeal to environmentalists and men and women who want their weddings to be as ecofriendly as possible. Rustic weddings may include those ceremonies and receptions that take place outdoors or in abodes, such as barns, wineries, castles, or converted silos or town factories. In fact, Bridal Guide says that barn weddings have never been more popular among both urban and rural couples alike. Coordinating a rustic wedding may mean letting go of perceived notions of how everything from food to favors to flowers should be. In fact, one way to describe rustic weddings and especially the floral arrangements that adorn them is "purposely imperfect." Rustic wedding bouquets may seem like they were plucked right out of the garden or grabbed through a stroll in a meadow. They're rarely symmetrical or feature the customary flowers of more formal wedding celebrations. When designing rustic bouquets, florists may keep the stems of wildflowers or other blooms untethered for a relaxed feel. Long stemmed arrangements are quite popular, and trends point toward bouquets that are loosely tied with raffia, twine, vines and other natural materials rather than more refined ribbon.
Another way rustic bouquets set themselves apart is with the introduction of other elements into the arrangements. Not merely blooms and greenery, rustic pieces may feature twigs, vines, berries, scabiosa pods, ivy, and feathery ferns. The heights of elements in the bouquet are varied, and the bouquets will not have an overly uniform shape. Rustic bouquets are far from pretentious, and brides shouldn't feel that these bouquets are delicate or will fall apart when handled. When planning a rustic wedding, couples can work with their florists to create bouquets and arrangements that fit with their visions.
Rustic weddings have become incredibly more popular among brides and grooms.
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Manchester Newspapers • Bridal Guide 2018 • 33
Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances Newlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons. One of the more critical issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going forward. Combining finances can be a touchy subject for many couples, especially those who had not given much thought to their finances prior to tying the knot. But there are steps couples can take to make the process of merging finances go more smoothly.
n Pay off any debts. The cost of
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n Discuss finances early and often. Allowing finances to be the elephant in the room is a mistake, as couples
do not want to begin their lives together treading lightly around an issue as significant as finances. Couples should discuss their expenditures and spending habits as early as possible, as one of the biggest hurdles newly married couples must clear is coming to grips with one another’s financial habits. If such habits have already been discussed, then developing a financial plan will be much easier once that time comes. When discussing finances, define both short-term and longterm goals and how each of you can adjust your spending habits to make those goals come true.
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www.gmtents.com 34 • Manchester Newspapers •
Bridal Guide 2018
Merging finances is an issue many newly married couples face upon returning from their honeymoons. weddings has skyrocketed over the last several decades, and many newlyweds find themselves in a considerable amount of debt upon returning from their honeymoons. When merging finances, couples should prioritize paying down such debt, as debt is a significant source of stress for newlyweds and long-married couples alike. Newly married couples with little or no debt should avoid spending above their means in the months after they get married. Such spending is commonplace, as newly married couples often want to fully furnish their new homes or reward themselves for pulling off their weddings. But new debt can be just as stressful on a marriage as debt from the wedding, so avoid this potentially problematic pitfall by paying down existing debts with your newly merged finances. n Make note of mutual expenses and open a joint account to pay for those expenses. Mutual expenses like mortgage payments, food and utilities should be the responsibility of each partner, and a joint account should be established to handle such expenses. When opening a joint account, discuss how much
and how often each partner will contribute money. One partner might earn considerably more money than another, so work out a reasonable agreement that details how much each partner will contribute each month, and whether such contributions will be made on a weekly, biweekly or monthly basis. n Make concessions for one another. When merging finances, couples often discover that they don’t see eye-to-eye on how each person spends money. Couples who successfully merge their finances often note the importance of making concessions with regard to their partners’ spending on certain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those hobbies are not putting couples in debt or jeopardizing their financial goals, couples can make concessions so their partners continue to be happy and enjoy their favorite activities. Merging finances is an issue that looms for many newlyweds or couples about to tie the knot. Though it’s not always easy, merging finances early and discussing goals can ensure newlyweds get off on the right financial foot.
Tips when choosing a honeymoon As couples cope with the stress and struggles of planning a wedding, many begin to see their honeymoons as a time when they can finally unwind and relax without having to worry about seating arrangements, vendor negotiations or the host of other responsibilities that come with planning a wedding. But securing the perfect honeymoon can be nearly as difficult as planning the wedding. The biggest dilemma couples face when planning a honeymoon is where to spend that first week or so as a married couple. The right locale for a honeymoon varies depending on the couple. Some might prefer a Hawaiian island while others might find a week spent camping in a national park is more their style. Whatever you and your future spouse’s style may be, the following are a few tips to ensure you both have the time of your lives. n Decide what you can afford. The days when the bride’s father takes care of the bill for the wedding are largely a thing of the past. Many of today’s couples finance their own weddings, which can leave little money leftover for the honeymoon. When shopping for a honeymoon destination, know what you can and can’t afford. Your honeymoon budget may narrow your options considerably, but it will help you ensure you aren’t spending your first trip as a married couple pinching pennies. n Play around with the length of your trip. Many couples aim to spend at least one week on their honeymoons. But one way to save money on the honeymoon or make a more expensive locale more affordable is to reduce the
length of your stay. An extra two days in paradise might break your honeymoon budget, but what about a shorter stay? You will likely want to spend at least five days at your chosen destination, but a five-day trip can prove considerably less expensive than a full week, especially if you arrive and depart on a weekday. n Travel in the offseason. While many couples deserve an immediate getaway after planning and financing their weddings, you might get a better deal if you delay your honeymoon until the offseason, when resorts tend to offer more attractive packages after the tourist season has peaked. A honeymoon in the offseason is likely to offer more privacy than one taken during the peak of the season, so you might find such a honeymoon is more romantic. If you do decide to delay your honeymoon, you might still want to plan a short getaway to a nearby locale for a few days after you tie the knot. Even a short trip can help you unwind after all that planning and coordinating. n Establish a honeymoon registry. In addition to who’s paying for the wedding, one of the ways in which today’s couples are different from those of yesteryear is the fact that many couples now live together before tying the knot. That reality has made the traditional registry somewhat obsolete, as many of today’s couples already own their own furniture and already have a fully stocked kitchen. But couples can still have a honeymoon registry, which allows their guests to donate money they would otherwise be spending on a wedding gift to a
fund that will be used specifically to fund the couple’s honeymoon and any adventures they choose to enjoy on their trip. Guests may even prefer such a registry, as it saves them the trouble of wrapping a gift and carrying it to the wedding while ensuring the happy couple will truly enjoy their gift.
A couple’s honeymoon is a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy some rest and relaxation on their first trip together as man and wife. And by putting a few savvy suggestions to good use, couples can ensure their honeymoon is all they hoped it would be and much, much more.
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518-642-3273 Manchester Newspapers • Bridal Guide 2018 • 35
INDEX Your Perfect Wedding Index of Advertisers Alterations Make it Sew ..............................26 Ruby’s Nimble Thimble .............13
Music Atomic Pro-Audio..........................1 The Miles Band............................6
Cake/Desserts Depot Cafe & Bake Shop........19 Round House Bakery ..............16
Reception/Lodging/Restaurants 1768 Hubbell Homestead at Colgate Park.........................33 American Legion Post 49 Fair Haven.................24 American Legion Post 50 Castleton....................8 American Legion Post 278 Schuylerville...............6 Bunker Hill Inn ............................11 Castleton University ..................32 Dunham’s Bay Resort..................3 Franklin Conference Center......28 Historic Grounds........................21 Killington Grand Resort..............17 Lake Bomoseen Lodge & Taproom.......Inside Back Cover Marble Mansion Inn .....................2 Skene Manor .............................21 The Barn Restaurant................Back Cover The Old Gray Barn ........................5 The Organ Barn ..........................24 Tracy & Harriet Wyman...............7 Whitehall Athletics Club............18
Catering/Party Platter AJ's Fine Food & Spirits..........35 American Legion Post 278 Schuylerville..............6 Busty's Brew & BBQ....................21 Historic Grounds .......................21 Joe’s Pizza .................................21 Lake Bomoseen Lodge & Taproom.......Inside Back Cover Putorti’s Market ........................21 The Barn Restaurant................Back Cover Wheel Inn .................................8 Favors Priscilla's Sweet Shoppe............22 Scribner Maple..........................21 The Emporium Tobacco & Gifts.26 Floral Everyday Flowers ..........................Inside Front Cover Florist at Mandy Springs........26 Gardenworks .............................11 Gifts/Home Décor As Time Goes By........................13 Carol’s Collectables ...................21 Gardenworks ............................11 Priscilla's Sweet Shoppe...........22 Scribner Maple..........................21 The Gold Trout .............................7 Jewelry Carol's Collectables...................21 Hannoush Jewelers....................29
36 • Manchester Newspapers •
Rentals A-1 Sewer & Drain......................28 Celebration Rentals.....................9 Green Mountain Tent Rentals ..34 Preferred Restrooms ................20 Retail Downtown Rutland Partnership...........................27 Stationary The Gold Trout..............................7 Tanning Kokomos Tanning Boutique.........7
Bridal Guide 2018
Transportation Ico House Limousine.................15 Merrit & Heidi Bruce Horse Drawn Carriage................10 Travel Enchanting Escapes.................25 Vacations by Joann......................8 Videography & Photography Atomic Pro-Audio..........................1 Espience Weddings.....................5 Wedding Attire A Trace of Lace ..........................29 Danielle’s Bridal ...........................4 Joy - All things underthings...........5
On the cover Our cover picture was taken by Heather Baker of Heather Ann Photography. The bride and groom are Kaeli Entrup and Ed Dieckert. You can see more of Heather's photography at heatherann-photography.com
...perfect
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