PERFECT WEDDING your guide to planning the perfect wedding day
Everyday Flowers
for your special day We’ll custom design your complete wedding from the ceremony to the reception
200 Main Street, Poultney, VT 802-287-4094 | www.everydayflowersvt.net
APR - NOV Please contact the event coordinator at theoldgraybarn@gmail.com
802.867.4455 Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 1
PERFECT WEDDING 5 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 34 35 36
Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life Secrets to at home weddings Affordable bachelor and bachelorette party ideas Make the first dance even more special How to build your wedding budget Wedding invitations tip sheet Getting married to the idea of hiring a wedding planner Kids or no kids - Enjoy a wedding that works for you Changing your last name Get a grip on your guest list Choosing the right wedding reception favors Dressing for wedding day comfort How to find the right wedding photographer 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 How couples can benefit from hiring local vendors "Plus one" etiquette for weddings Thank-you card writing etiquette Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances Tips when choosing a honeymoon Index
Perfect Wedding is a publication of Manchester Newspapers, 14 E. Main St., Granville, N.Y. 12832 / Call 518-642-1234.
Marble Mansion Inn Bed & Breakfast Rooms from $80 to $140 per night Rates Include: • Beautiful Spacious Rooms • Gourmet Breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • 12 Rooms With Private Baths • New Eurotop Beds
Close to dining, skiing, major lakes, golf courses, Castleton University & Green Mountain College
12 West Park Place Fair Haven, VT 802-265-4556 www.marblemansioninn.com 2 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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
2999 State Route 9L, Lake George, NY 12845 (518)656-9242 www.DunhamsBay.com
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 3
4 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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
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.
Telling YOUR Wedding Stories through Film and Photography
)LOP
3KRWRJUDSK\
Fully Insured | Photography | Videography www.espience.com | 518.745.9859 Facebook: Espience Weddings | Instagram: @Espience_WeddingsOfficial Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 5
Secrets to at home weddings Many couples preparing for their trip down the aisle follow the familiar sentiments expressed by Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz.' Such couples feel 'there's no place like home' when hosting a wedding ceremony or reception. There are many benefits to hosting a wedding at home. Homes often hold couples' most cherished memories, and hosting a backyard celebration or an intimate indoor ceremony at your own home or the abode of a loved one can be a cost-effective way to have a good time. Here are some tips to help couples navigate hosting an at-home wedding.
Assess the space The average home is not equipped to handle hundreds of guests, wait staff, caterers, and
parked cars. Concessions in regard to comfort and safety will have to be made when drawing up the guest list. The wedding resource The Knot advises the general rule is six- to 10 square-feet of floor space per guest for row seating. You'll probably need even more space for buffet tables, seating and a dance floor. You will likely need to temporarily move furniture to comfortably fit everyone indoors Ñ or rent a large enough tent for a backyard wedding.
Hire a cleaning service It's important to present a clean, inviting space when hosting a wedding at home. A cleaning service will conduct a thorough cleaning before and after the festivities, freeing up your time for lastminute tasks or to embark on your honeymoon.
Book an officiant early Confirm with an officiant that they can oversee the wedding proceedings at your home. Many religious officials are not able to
perform ceremonies outside of a place of worship.
Learn if it's legal Certain municipalities may require permits for parking on street, noise past a certain hour, closing of streets, and much more. Do your research. You may need to coordinate parking at a nearby lot (like a school closed on the weekend) and shuttle people to your home.
Consult with an insurance carrier Inquire if having such a large party at home is covered by your homeowner's insurance policy, particularly if your home is damaged or someone gets injured during the festivities. Supplemental liability insurance or an umbrella policy may offer greater protection.
Tuesday - Friday 9AM-1PM & 3PM-6PM Saturday Noon-4PM
ROUND HOUSE BAKERY CAFÉ Customized Wedding Cakes and Pastries 25 East Main Street Cambridge NY 518.677.CAFE (2233) www.roundhousebakery.com 6 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 7
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 expens-
Taking your Special Moments to New Heights.
Julie Cogswell FAA Certified sUAS Pilot, Fully Insured Weddings, Real Estate, Special Events, Promotional, Interior Virtual Tours, Insurance Inspections
Phone: 802-236-9390 Email: skyviewdpv@gmail.com
es. 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.
Lake George Barn Weddings at The Barn at French Mountain This newly converted barn has approximately 9,100 square feet of contiguous space inside in one room. There is nothing like it in the entire region. We are located 3 minutes from Lake George Village at the base of French Mountain, close to hotels and everything you need!
To schedule an appointment or get pricing info, call 518-792-6092 today! 8 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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.
or Email: elaine@the1925barn.com
89 County Route 41, Hudson Falls
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 spoton 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 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.
A Wedding On The Hudson Weddings and Event Venue www.aweddingonthehudson.com First dances are a memorable moment for not only the bride and groom, but for guests as well. Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 9
How to build your wedding budget “Creating memorable events one “BEAT” at a time!”
SERVICES: • Ceremony, Cocktail Hour & Reception • Two Staff Members • Online Planner • Full Room Up Lighting • Cocktail Hour Entertainment • Personalized Monogram • Voiceover Recordings • Giveaways / Party Favors • Wireless Microphone • Couple Alone Moment • Sparkler / Glow-Stick Send-off
10% MILITARY DISCOUNT Contact Caroline@upbeatoccasions.com • 518-495-2967
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 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. 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 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 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
10 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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 determin-
ing 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.
Did you know? According to the 2014 Real Weddings Survey from popular wedding website TheKnot.com, June was the most popular month to get married in 2014, when 15 percent of the nearly 16,000 brides and grooms surveyed tied the knot in what many people consider the most pleasant weather month of the year. Fourteen percent chose to tie the knot in October, another month with a reputation for agreeable weather.
Budgets can help couples stay on track and avoid debt as they plan their weddings.
American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278
Weddings | Banquets | Outings Enjoy your special day with our excellent food and personal service in our spacious hall that can seat up to 200 guests.
4 Clancy St | Schuylerville, NY 518-695-3011 Open to Public 7 days a week
ry t s i g e R l a d i Br
ill associates w ent ional sales O ur profess se the perfect assortm oo help you ch life together. ew n r for you nds: b l the top bra We carr y al ikon Henckels Stau f R ho n h st u u K W s Zylis auviel AllClad M id Breville x o n ri to ic A V en Shun Kitch Cuisinart
g if ts !! p la ce fo r .. .a g re a t
802.362.0111 Rt 7A Manchester www.vermontkitchensupply.com
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 11
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
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.
Talk To Us First! Exceptional Value on Hall Rental!
With catering available 20 to 200 people Wedding Receptions • Private Parties • Social Events Round Tables • Sizable Dance Floor • Outside Pavilion
AT MacCLAN FARMS
Wedding Flowers
BINGO EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT!
Naturally Beautiful!
American Legion Post 50
www.gardenworksfarm.com
PO Box 355, Bomoseen, VT • 802-468-8962 Contact Greg Knapp Sr.
12 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Free Consultation
1055 Rt. 30 in Salem, NY • 518-854-3250
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. 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. 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.
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 Planners handle the notso-fun parts. Trying cake flavors
n Properly vet vendors and stay on top of deadlines.
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.
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.
n Planners may be privy to discounts. Some planners may have long-lasting professional relationships with vendors, and
THE JOY
n Planners can help establish a budget. Wedding planners 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.
n Planners can free up time. 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.
THE AT TENTION EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE
Rob Spring Photography
Hitlin Photography
Rob Spring Photography
YTK Photography
THE DETAIL
Upstate New York’s Premier Weddin g Venues an d Caterin g
THE SERVICE
mazzonehospitality.com | 518.690.0293 Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 13
Kids or no kids Enjoy a wedding that works for you Weddings are a time for celebration and sharing good times. Some couples want to share their love and excitement with as many people as they can fit under one roof, while others may prefer a more intimate affair to enjoy with a select few. One difficult decision couples must face when planning a wedding is whether or not to invite children to join in the festivities. Young guests can bring an energetic spark to the celebration, but kids unaccustomed to dressing up and enjoying a fancy night out may get swept away by the majesty of the night. Adult guests looking to have a good time may find it difficult to relax and let loose if they have to keep a constant eye on their children. The topic of children at weddings is a tricky subject. Family and friends may have strong opinions on either side of the debate. Ultimately, the couple needs to come to an agreement regarding children at their wedding. Once a decision has been made, couples can employ some strategies to make the wedding as enjoyable as possible for every age group.
No children Couples who decide to exclude kids from their guest lists should alert guests well in advance of the “no kids” edict. Be tactful when alerting guests. If you will be sending out save-the-date cards, include the phrase “Adults only, please” on the card. You also may want to include the information on a wedding
website if you have one. A website affords you more space to explain your stance on young guests. When it comes to the wedding invitation, your indications should already be clear. However, you can reinforce that kids are not invited by addressing the invitations accordingly. Do not include the children’s names or “and family” on the envelope. Invitations should only feature the names of the people being invited. Be consistent if you do not want children at the reception. It is not okay to allow one guest’s kids while excluding another’s. The only exception is children who are members of the wedding party. However, if you prefer a kid-free wedding, you may want to avoid a ring bearer and flower girl during the ceremony. Chances are word will spread that the wedding is not for child guests. If you do not want to handle inquiries, ask a member of the bridal party to answer any kid-related questions.
Children allowed Contrary to popular belief, children can be well-behaved at a wedding and add a youthful component to the celebration. Watching a child twirling on the dance floor or devouring a large piece of wedding cake can make a wedding day more memorable and special. Couples who invite kids to the wedding should expect the unexpected from their youngest guests. Let the small things slide and speak with youngsters’ parents if any
14 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Deciding between having children at a wedding or not can be a difficult decision between the bride and groom. issues arise. Arrange for some activities to keep children entertained and out of trouble. Have the band or deejay incorporate some child-friendly dances or activities. Designate the kids’ table and arrange some small toys or activity books. Be sure to choose some child-friendly foods during the cocktail hour. Hungry children can be that much more fussy. Arrange a special menu with the catering manager and be clear about how many kids are invited. Usually kids’ dinners cost substantially less than adults’. Some reception sites may provide a separate room where children can gather. A television with a favorite movie
or a few video games may be all that’s necessary to pass the time. Hire a babysitter to stay with the children and give adults in the other room peace of mind.
Limited children You may want to include older children at the wedding but have younger ones stay home. As you would for a wedding without kids, spread the word that there is an age limit. On save-the-date announcements, request that “No children under age 12” attend the wedding. Be prepared for some opposition from guests whose kids fall under the age limit. Just be firm with your plans.
SAY “YES” IN DOWNTOWN RUTLAND
AMBER SPROTT BOUTIQUE AVA N T I S A L ON BLUSH SALON & BEAUTY LOUNGE DIAMONDS & MORE
DOWNTOWN GENTLEMEN’S SALON FREEMAN MARCUS JEWELERS FRUITION FINERIES MAKE IT SEW
MCNEIL & REEDY T HE PA L M S R AW HON E Y A P PA R E L ROOTS THE RESTAURANT
TABLE 24 TIMCO JEWELERS UNLIMITED IMAGES VERMONT TRUFFLE CO
Explore Downtown Rutland for your jewelry, beauty needs, catering, and more! DOWNTOWNRUTL AND.COM/BRIDAL | Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 15
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.
EAST CREEK CATERING
FULLY EQUIPPED MOBILE KITCHEN SAMPLE MENUS AVAILABLE AT
www.eastcreekcatering.com Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-4 • Closed Sundays
VOTED BEST JEWELER FOR 10 YEARS RUNNING 16 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL KATHIE COMSTOCK AT 802.353.0786 OR INFO@EASTCREEKCATERING.COM
1-855-531-LIMO
Transportation for any event! Weddings • Anniversaries Bachelorette Parties • Bachelor Parties Wedding Guest Shuttle Service Proms • Nights Out Airport/Rail • Concerts
518-618-2266
802-438-9800 Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 17
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.
MAKE BLOSSOMS N MORE YOUR 1ST CHOICE FOR PREMIUM FRESH FLOWERS AND UPSCALE D E S I G N A RT I S T RY F O R Y O U R D R E A M W E D D I N G AND ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS.
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
EACH
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
WEDDING WE DO IS CUSTOM DESIGNED
WITH YOU IN MIND.
WE
WOULD LOVE TO
M A K E Y O U R D AY E X T R A S P E C I A L A N D P R O V I D E Y O U W I T H F L O W E R S T H AT A R E A S B E A U T I F U L LY U N F O R G E T TA B L E A S Y O U R W E D D I N G D AY MEMORIES WILL BE.
New Modern Portable Toilets CALL BLOSSOMS N MORE TODAY! (802) 855-8155 HNCBLOSSOMSNMORE.COM
• Flushable Units with Sinks • Handicapped Accessible • Scented Toilets • Variety of Colors & Scents • Guaranteed to be the Cleanest, Always! Family Owned for Over 34 Years Serving Rutland County
802-438-5722 802-775-0220 www.A1seweranddrainservice.com 157 Quality Lane, Rutland VT
18 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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.
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 gets tough. When all else has failed, couples faced with difficult decisions regarding their wedding guest lists can ask themselves if prospective guests are
Getting a grip on their guest lists may be one of the more difficult tasks couples encounter when planning their weddings. 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 make sense, especially if it's been 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.
GROOMSMEN PACKAGE Private Bookings • Precision Cuts • Refreshments • Cigar Prices are tailored to suit party.
MAPLE FAVORS!
Serving Breakfast & Lunch 7AM-2PM daily Breakfast all day, Lunch after 11AM
32 Merchants Row, Rutland, VT 802-558-5559
Come to our sugarhouse for the best breakfast around! After breakfast, check out our gift shop for all your souvenir, gift, and maple syrup needs. We look forward to your visit! Sugar & Spice Restaurant & Gift Shop Rt. 4, Mendon, VT • 802-773-7832 www.sugarandspice.com
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 19
Choosing wedding reception favors Planning a perfect wedding is no small undertaking. From scheduling venues and hiring vendors to tasting menus, lots of decisions must be made when planning a wedding. But when the pieces fall into place, the entire day can be magical.
importance of handing out wedding favors, a tradition with a rich history. A wedding favor is considered a symbol of good will to guests, and there are many different wedding favors on the market. Finding the right one can take a little work.
One of the final components of weddings are the favors guests will take home with them as mementos of the festivities. Though favors don’t require immediate attention, that does not mean couples should wait until the last minute to made decisions regarding their wedding favors.
A couple’s budget should be considered when choosing wedding favors. A couple may want to give their guests lavish gifts but should only do so if their budget allows. It may be challenging for couples to find favors that fit the theme of their wedding, as well as their own personalities and budgets. The following are some favor-finding guidelines.
Brides- and grooms-to-be should not underestimate the
Be creative Wedding favors can be just about anything, so there’s no need to stick to Jordan almonds or wine bottle stoppers. The more creative couples are, the more receptive their guests will likely be. For example, for an autumn-theme wedding, fill mason jars with the ingredients for a spiced cake and give the recipe directions on a tag. For a summer wedding, gift guests with a sun and surf survival bag, full of sunblock, a beach towel and sunglasses.
may want to give guests keychains or purse holders that feature popular landmarks around the world.
Go traditional Couples who opt for universally appealing favors can lean toward some popular options, such as silver cake servers, candlestick holders, decorative photo frames, or engraved keepsake boxes. Aim for favors that have utility. Otherwise, favors may end up collecting dust on someone’s shelf.
Complete the theme
Food and beverage gifts are fun
Some weddings follow a particular theme from start to finish, and wedding favors should stick with that theme. Couples who will showcase their love of travel on their wedding days
Food favors mean guests can enjoy their gifts and not have to worry about finding space inside their homes to display trinkets. Food favors can be lavishly decorated cookies,
THE
BUNKER HILL INN AFFORDABLE HALL RENTAL 190 Person Capacity • Weddings • Showers • Family Gatherings • Holiday Parties • Fundraisers • Corporate Functions • Full Commercial Kitchen • Plenty of Parking
A beautiful B&B nestled in the woods and meadows of Washington County.
Featuring a full country breakfast and gracious hospitality. 412 Bunker Hill Road Salem, NY 12865 518-854-9339
Proprietor: Laura Coldwell GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
www.bunkerhillinn.com
CALL US TODAY: 518-345-5344 Knights of Columbus-Council #343 Park Avenue, Granville, NY 12832
Set up an appointment with one of our consultants to custom design a package. 369 Bay Road Recognized By: Queensbury, NY
518-745-1010 alastingimpressionflorist.net
20 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
4249 Route 50 Saratoga Springs (518) 584-7067
Mon - Fri 10-7:00 pm Sat - 10-6:00 pm Sun - 10-3 pm
Like us on facebook
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 21
Dressing for wedding day comfort Wedding attire is known more for style than comfort. Formal wear, high heels 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 invaluable. 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 the dance floor. Avoid discomfort (and split seams) by leaving some wiggle room in wedding day ensembles.
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 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
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.
Portable Luxury Restrooms for Your Outdoor Events Rates starting at $925
315 Clarendon Avenue, West Rutland, VT 05777
(802) 558-8955 • www.preferredrestrooms.com Servicing Vermont and eastern New York 22 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Celebration Rentals. Inc. !"#$%&' ()* +",,-#.' %#, /0"1-%& 23"#$' 4"#$' %#, 511"'')*-"'
There is nothing quite as magical as a wedding under an elegant tent...
...the possibilities are endless.
802.247.0002 !"## $%&"' (%) '%*) ()++ ,%-.*#$"$/%-0 86 Park Street, Brandon, Vermont
www.celebrateinvermont.com Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 23
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 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 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. 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
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.
Wedding photos help couples relive the wonderful memories of their ceremony and reception. 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 with each
American Legion Post 49 72 South Main Street Fair Haven, VT 05743 AFFORDABLE HALL RENTAL 200 CAPACITY Weddings • Showers Family Gatherings • Fundraisers FULL KITCHEN • BAR • PLENTY OF PARKING
Call Us Today! 802-265-7983 24 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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
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.
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 25
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.
Celebrate with us. Weddings • Meetings • Parties
• Spacious Grounds • Flower Gardens • Ample Parking • Pipe Organ • Grand Piano • Large Sound System • Full Building & Kitchen Use • Seating for up to 125 Guests • Event Planning & Suggestions
THE ORGAN BARN 672 North Grimes Hill Road, Granville, NY 12832 518-642-1814 • granville_pgm@yahoo.com www.organbarn.com 26 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
www.colgatepark.com
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.
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.
Spiders, doves and sugar cubes all can be symbols of good luck on couples' wedding days. ty and luck.
gowns are in for some good luck.
n Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the way to their weddings. This is another symbol of 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 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
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.
The Barn at Kingston Place
n It's good luck for the bride to see a dove on the way to the wedding because doves symbolize
n In Holland, well-wishers would plant pine trees outside of newlyweds' homes as a symbol of fertili-
Thewe Barn at Kingston Place What offer…
Manager: Abigale Stannard
abigale@kingstonplace.com (802)345-6935 What we offer…& covered ceremony locations Manager: Abigale Stannard - Outdoor Manager: Abigale Sta • Outdoor & covered ceremony locations abigale@kingstonplace.com - Tables, chairs and linens • Tables, chairs and linens abigale@kingstonplac (802)345-6935 wewith offer… - Optional onlodging siteWhat lodging continental breakfast • Optional on site with continental breakfast (802)345-6935 Outdoor & covered ceremony locations - Reception • Reception barn barn - Tables, chairs and linens - vendors All vendors outsourced • All outsourced -
Optional on site lodging with continental breakfast Reception barn All vendors outsourced
Package options… Package options… 1.
2. 3. 4.
Three days, two with for with all allwe we Package options… 1. Three days, twonights nights withlodging lodging for 10-12 10-12 with offer included, or; offer included, or; 1. Three days, two nights with lodging for 10-12 with all we offer included for for 150+ 2424 hours, with morning of take down theguests, or; 2. hours, withset setup upthe the morning of and and$7500 take down the 2. 24 hours, with set up the morning of and take down the morning after andno nolodging lodging morning after and morning after and no lodging for $5000 for 150+ guests 3. season (Nov.1-May 1-May1) 1)rates ratesavailable available OffOff season (Nov. 3. Off season 1) rates available 4. Price scaled by guest count & night stay1-May (call for pricing) Price scaled by guest count & night(Nov. stay (call for pricing) 4. Price scaled by guest count & night stay Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 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.
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
Mounta n e i re REN
NT E T
TAL S
n
G
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.
Green Mountain Tent Rentals is a familyowned and operated business that specializes in weddings and outdoor events. From the smallest rehearsal dinner to the largest wedding, trust Green Mountain Tent Rentals.
SOUTHERN VERMONT’S OUTDOOR EVENT RENTAL COMPANY. TENTS, DANCE FLOORS, PLATFORMS, TABLES, TABLEWARE, CHAIRS, AND LIGHTING ARE AVAILABLE.
Also servicing the New York area.
802-365-7839 OR 800-691-8368 Check out our website:
www.gmtents.com 28 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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.
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 Schedule time for writing. Amid the bustle of dress fittings and interviews with photographers, it can be easy to put off the important task of writing vows for another day. But as any great writer can attest, it takes writing -- and rewriting -- to achieve a finished product you can be proud of. Give the task of
writing your vows your undivided attention. Mark it in on your calendar or set a reminder on your computer just as you would any other appointment. 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
Writing your own vows can be a way to include personal expressions of love into a couple’s wedding day. 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 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.
reenwich THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
organic day spa & wellness center
• Therapeutic Massage • Skin Care • • Lash Lift • Brow & Lash Tint • Collagen Treatments • • Body Scrubs • Parties Accepted! •
(518) 692-9927 2615 State Route 40 Greenwich, NY 12834 greenwichtherapeuticmassage.com Open 7 days a week by appointment only Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 29
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
23 County Route 23, Hartford Main Street Hartford, NY 12838
518-632-5166
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.
Make Your Special Day a Memorable Occasion with a
As Time Goes By A Unique Blend of Country Home Decor and Women’s Apparel OPEN DAILY
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.
Horse Drawn Carriage or Wagon Ride
Owned and operated by Merrit & Heidi Bruce
WEDDING TIME EXPERIENCE Call to discuss Dates, Times and Rates
Parties
518-642-2902 dings d e W or Cell 802-558-0409
348 County Route 12 • Granville, NY 30 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Say “I Do”... ...In Whitehall We have all you need for your new home! • Household • Home Decor • Collectibles • Dishes & Cookware • Small Appliances
Carol’s Collectibles & Antiques 84 Broadway, Whitehall, NY 12887 DEBIT
518-499-0728 carolscollectibles.biz
Upstate DISCOUNT WAREHOUSE
HISTORIC GROUNDS Small Wedding Parties Rehearsal Dinners Showers • Catering Fresh Ground Coffees Cappuccino & Latte Full Service Breakfast Lunches • Eat-In or Take-Out
142 Main Street, Whitehall • 518-499-5017 OPEN 7AM ~ 3PM DAILY!
CATERING
YOUR MENU OR OURS!
NEW LOWER PRICES
STOREWIDE!
1,000’s of Gift Ideas A little bit of everything and all at a great price! 192 Broadway, Whitehall, NY (ACROSS FROM CUMBERLAND FARMS)
OPEN DAILY 10 TO 7
Skene Manor 8 Potters Terrace, Whitehall, NY
“Castle on the Mountain” Offering free tours of the castle. Visit the gift shop and tearoom for lunch. AvailableShowers for private functions Available for Bridal and special events. and Rehearsal Dinners.
Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday noon to 4pm April through December For information, call Skene Manor during open hours at 518-499-1906 or after hours at 518-499-2053
BIG FOOT WINE & LIQUOR
JOE’S BREW & BBQ PIZZA
BUSTY’S
Sweet Genevieve’s Treat Shoppe
Whitehall, NY • 518-499-0603
Scribner Maple The Sweetest Wedding Ever.
Maple Syrup Cream Candy Retail & Wholesale Vernon & Ruth Scribner 55 Beckett Road Whitehall, NY 12887
518-499-0349
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 31
"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.
Number of single friends Another consideration is how many single people will be invited to the wedding. If it's a small number, a blanket plus-one rule 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.
Length of relationship One way to set limits on plus ones is to look at invitees on a case-by-
Weddings can be complicated to plan, and negotiating plus ones for single guests is part of that planning. case basis. Think about unmarried guests and the type of relationship 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
Premier Plus Travel & Tours Your One-Stop Shop for Transportation & Travel Plans
Premier Plus Transportation Options: • • • • • • • • • •
Saratoga Track SPAC Concerts Bridal Party Limo Shuttle Transportation Bachelor(ette) Parties Wine/Brewery Tours Casino Trips NYC Shopping Night Out On The Town Or Customize Your Own Special Day!
Sit Back and Relax... let us do the driving for you!
info@premierplustours.com
Plan Your Next Vacation: • Family Vacations
• Destination Weddings • Honeymoons • Group Travel • All-Inclusive Options for All Budgets 2019 Upcoming Group Travel: • Ireland 4/27/2019-5/6/2019 From Dublin to Limerick • Italy 10/5/2019-10/13/2019 Venice, Florence & Rome
premierplustravel@gmail.com
518-745-0202
446 Dix Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804 • www.premierplustours.com 32 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
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.
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.
Thank-you card writing etiquette employers who have wished couples well should all be included on the thank-you list.
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 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 they order their wedding invitations. This way the paper, font and style match the original invitations. In addition, it may be less expensive to
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.
Thank you cards should typically be mailed within two weeks of the bridal shower and two months of the wedding. order stationery as a package. 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 purchased at a stationery store.
Expert Bridal Alterations
RUBY’S NIMBLE THIMBLE Greenwich - 518.692.2765 Tailoring for the whole Bridal Party
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
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. n A mass thank-you posted on social media is not adequate. n Even if you are late with writing out thank-you notes, that doesn’t exclude you from doing so. By adhering to thank-you card etiquette, couples will ensure their guests know that gifts and efforts to make the wedding special were appreciated.
Invite us to your wedding and cater to you. Real casual comfortable food. Together 730 Lake Road, create a menu that Benson, VT taste and 802-537-2755 fits your your budget.
OPEN DAILY
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
References available.
Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 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 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. n Pay off any debts. The cost of 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
At
THE
CLEANING CENTER
51 Main Street, Fair Haven MON - SAT: 9AM - 8PM SUNDAY: NOON - 8PM
802-265-3603 www.kokomosvt.com
“The Ultimate Tanning Experience” NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED! • Certified Staff • Air Conditioned • Lotions & Accessories
Join us on Facebook for Extra Values
• 11 Tanning Beds • 1 Stand-Up • Gift Certificates
LOWEST PRICES IN THE AREA! 34 • Manchester Newspapers •
Perfect Wedding 2019
Merging finances is an issue many newly married couples face upon returning from their honeymoons. 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.
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.
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.
From savory to sweet,
Let us make your special day complete.
266 Main Street, Castleton, VT • 802-671-8050 OPEN: MONDAY - SUNDAY 7AM-2PM
BREAKFAST & LUNCH • CATERING Manchester Newspapers • Perfect
Wedding 2019 • 35
INDEX Your Perfect Wedding Index of Advertisers Alterations Make it Sew ............................ 6, 15 Ruby’s Nimble Thimble ..............33 Beverages Big Foot Wine & Liquor ...............31 Cake/Desserts Round House Bakery Café ..........6 The Depot Cafe & Bake Shop ....35 Catering/Party Platter American Legion Post 50, Bomoseen, VT ...........................12 Busty’s Brew & BBQ ...................31 East Creek Catering ....................16 Historic Grounds .........................31 Joe’s Pizza ...................................31 Sweet Genevieve’s Treat Shoppe.......................................31 Mazzone Hospitality ....................13 The Depot Café & Bake Shop ....35 The Wheel Inn .............................33 Favors Scribner Maple. ...........................31 Sugar & Spice Restaurant & Gift Shop ....................................19 Vermont Truffle Company ...........15 Fireworks Northstar Fireworks ....................25 Floral A Lasting Impression Florist .......20 Blossoms ‘N More .......................18 Everyday Flowers ............................Inside Front Cover Florist at Mandy’s Spring. .............6 Gardenworks................................12 The Lily of the Valley Florist ........29 Gifts/Home Décor As Time Goes By ........................30 Carol’s Collectibles & Antiques ......................................31 Gardenworks ..............................12 Upstate Discount Warehouse.....31 Vermont Kitchen Supply .............11 36 • Manchester Newspapers •
Jewelry Carol’s Collectibles & Antiques .....................................31 Diamonds & More .......................15 Freeman Marcus Jewelers..........15 Hannoush Jewelers .....................16 Timco Jewelers ...........................15 Music The Miles Band ...........................28 Upbeat Occasions .......................10 Organizations Downtown Rutland Partnership ................................15 Reception/Lodging/Restaurants 1768 Hubbell Homestead at Colgate Park..........................26 1925 Barn .....................................9 A Wedding On The Hudson...........9 American Legion Post 49 Fair Haven, VT ............................24 American Legion Post 50 Bomoseen, VT ............................12 American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278 ..............11 Barrows House ..............Back cover Bunker Hill Inn ............................20 Dunham’s Bay Resort ..................3 Historic Grounds..........................31 Knights of Columbus #343 ........20 Lake Bomoseen Lodge ................Inside back cover Lake George Steamboat ...............4 Marble Mansion Inn .....................2 Mazzone Hospitality ....................13 Roots The Restaurant ................15 Skene Manor ...............................31 Sugar & Spice Restaurant ..........19 Table 24 .......................................15 The Barn at French Mountain ......8 The Barn at Kingston Place ........27 The Depot Café & Bake Shop ....35 The Old Gray Barn ........................1 The Organ Barn ..........................26 The Palms ...................................15 The Wheel Inn .............................33
Perfect Wedding 2019
Rentals 802 Restrooms ...........................10 A-1 Sewer & Drain Service .........18 Celebration Rentals ....................23 Green Mountain Tent Rentals ...28 Preferred Restrooms ..................22 Salons/Spas/Tanning Avanti Salon .................................15 Blush Salon & Beauty Lounge ...15 Downtown Gentleman’s Salon ...................................15, 19 Kokomo’s Tanning Boutique. .....34 Greenwich Therapeutic Massage ....................................29 Unlimited Images ........................15 Transportation Horse Drawn Carriage or Wagon by Merrit & Heidi Bruce ............30 Icehouse Limousine ....................17 Premier Plus Travel & Tours .......32 Travel Premier Plus Travel & Tours .......32 Videography/Photography/ Droneography Espience Weddings .......................5 SkyView DPV, LLC ..........................8 Wedding Attire Amber Sprott Boutique ...............15 Danielle's Bridal ..........................21 McNeil & Reedy ...........................15 Wedding Planning Adirondack-Albany Wedding Association...................7 Women’s & Men’s Apparel & Accessories As Time Goes By ........................30 Fruition Fineries .........................15 Raw Honey Apparel .....................15
YOUR PERFECT VERMONT LOVE STORY
RO M A N T I C LO D G I N G FA R M TA B L E E P I C U R E WEDDING BARN AND TENT C E L E B R AT I O N D I N N E R S H I STO R I C D O R S E T V T B A R ROWS H O U S E . CO M | 8 0 2 . 8 67. 4 4 5 5