Spring 2019 Dream Weddings Magazine by Dream Weddings

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SPRING 2019

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D R E AM WED D I N GS

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Visit DreamWeddings.co to view past magazine issues and episodes of the Dream Weddings TV show, read wedding planning advice, get inspired, and learn about the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bridal professionals who can make your wedding dreams come true!

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dream weddings | spring 2019

7 MARTINE’S MUSINGS Letter from the Editor 10 WEDDING DRESS STYLES A guide to your dress style options 11 COMPLETE THE LOOK! Helpful hints for creating your bridal ensemble 16 DESIGN INSPIRATION Classic Romantic, Urban Contemporary & Organic Ethereal Styles 24 MARTINE'S TIPS Planning outdoor weddings & mastering your budget

Ashley Gerrity Photography

26 REAL WEDDINGS Allow real weddings to inspire your dreams! 34 FLORAL ABUNDANCE Dream Weddings Feature 52 GET AUTHENTIC ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS Tips for capturing photos youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love 56 ADVICE FROM WEDDING PROS Cake and vendor tips 64 MAKE IT OFFICIAL Places to file for your marriage license

dream weddings | spring 2019

Katy Trefry Photography

Central Pennsylvania’s first and only Wedding Reality Television Show! Emmy nominated Dream Weddings follows real couples through their planning process until their big day unfolds right before your eyes. What began as a dream over 7 years ago for host Martine Cajas, has turned into a source of inspiration for couples everywhere. Viewers enjoy some truly unique elements of the show: behind-the-scenes production meetings, wedding design upgrades and of course - bloopers! Martine has gotten so comfortable on camera that the production team feels he will become a one-take wonder...then his Spanglish takes over and he has everyone cracking

up in no time. Dream Weddings continues to evolve from season to season. Check out the Dream Weddings YouTube channel to watch any episode, on demand. Or visit www.DreamWeddings.co/episodes and

Frank King Photography

watch all of the past shows online anytime as well! The Dream Weddings TV show is made possible by the creativity of the local professionals who make our couples’ dreams come true. Visit us at www. DreamWeddings.co to search through your area’s top vendors, view past issues of the magazine and to learn how your wedding could possibly be featured on a future episode of the show. Also, don’t forget to check us out on social media for tips, vendor information and inspiration throughout your entire planning process.

Join host, Martine Cajas, to be inspired by real couples who have used their own local professionals to make their wedding dreams come true!

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MUS I N GS

WELCOME TO SPRING! After the coldest winter in United States history, we wanted to bring some colorful blooms to your life. Rather than curling up with a cup of hot cocoa, grab a glass of Rosé and get reading! I’m very excited about this issue because it offers inspiration in so many styles, as well as advice to help you plan your Dream Wedding. Spring is the time to really take in and appreciate the beauty of mother nature. That’s why I decided to partner up with my talented friend Ashley, of Ashley Gerrity Photography, in order to provide you with our featured photo shoot, Floral Abundance. As you look through these stunningly colorful images, think about how you can use these elements in your own wedding. This organic ethereal look could be translated to an indoor venue such as a barn or ballroom, so don’t let the outdoor venue deter you from utilizing similar styling. Finding a great photographer is just the first step to getting beautiful wedding photos. When you work with your photographer, be sure to ask them

for detail shots like the ones featured in the design inspiration section of the magazine--your own wedding photos may be what inspires brides later down the line. When I help couples bring their Dream Wedding to life, I always walk them into their reception space to see what they have created. I want them to take in the beauty of their cake, linens, flowers, chargers, menus, glassware, etc. Details, details, details! In weddings, every detail counts because tomorrow’s couples draw inspiration from the weddings happening today. Keep the inspiration flowing when you turn to the real weddings featured starting on page 26. These are real brides and grooms who made their dreams a reality. Here’s my recommendation: book your vendors as soon as possible. People from New York, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh are coming to Central Pennsylvania to get married, since it’s much less expensive. This means less availability for you! Booking vendors as soon as possible not only holds the date, but the price as well. You’re going to be hiring about 15 vendors. If the price of each vendor goes up every year, you’re going to save yourself a lot of money for the same services by booking them now. Read more about budgeting and vendor prices on page 25. Believe me, I know that planning your big day isn’t easy. That’s why, starting on page 52, we’ve included some articles and advice to help you plan. Be sure to read them carefully and take the information to heart. Springtime is when many people get busy and distracted. You’re going out more, attending friends’ weddings, and

generally have less time to sit down and plan your own big day. My advice is that you don’t let your wedding day creep up on you by putting planning on hold. It’s never too early to get your wedding planning together. Ready, set, go!

owner and editor-in-chief MARTINE CAJAS digital marketing specialist and writer MADI DODGE cinematographer MARK YANG feature photographer ASHLEY GERRITY

dream weddings | spring 2019

WEDDING DRESS STYLES

Your wedding gown is the most memorable fashion statement you will ever make! We want to help you consider which silhouettes and necklines will best convey your style and flatter your figure.

The gown follows the torso and then gracefully angles out at the waist. While this shape can complement any figure, it’s especially good for petite (the unbroken lines can make you appear taller) and full- figured (hips become less noticeable) brides.

A marriage (no pun intended!) of Mermaid & A-Line, it hugs the torso and flows outward at mid-thigh (making it less restrictive than the Mermaid). It’s a fantastic style for those with hourglass figures.

If you have an hourglass figure, this is the style that will accent your features the most! The fit hugs the body from the chest to the knee and then dramatically flares out. The only drawback is that this style can be a bit restrictive while dancing.

The clean lines of this classic shape lend themselves to weddings of every style. It’s the finishing touches (lace, bling, ruching, etc.) that make it traditional, formal, retro or modern. It’s a good choice for tall, slender, or petite brides.

Cinderella defines this fairy-tale look that begins with a fitted bodice/waistline and ends with a full skirt. The style complements nearly every shape; the only exception is the petite bride, whose stature may be overwhelmed by the full skirt.

The updated version of empire styling is perfect for more casual affairs (a beach wedding, perhaps). The preferred fabric, chiffon, flows from under the bustline to provide an ethereal look. This style is a good choice for tall, slender or petite brides.

NECKLINES

In addition to the style of dress you choose, the proper neckline can accent your best features and help you feel secure in your gown. Use our guide so you know what necklines to try and how to ask for them at the bridal salon.

The Sweetheart dips in the middle, creating a heart-shaped design that’s especially complementary to brides with fuller busts.

dream weddings | spring 2019

Simple and clean, this neckline is commonly seen on strapless gowns and complements brides with small chests & shoulders.

It covers the shoulders but takes a Sweetheart shape over the bust. A good choice for brides with fuller chests.

This flattering neckline (good for B or C cups) can be as demure or daring as you’d like! It’s also a style that lends itself to sleeves.

This classic, U-shaped neckline flatters brides with all types of figures and bust sizes. It also pairs well with a variety of necklaces.

the

LOOK!

Choosing your wedding gown is an exciting part of preparing to get married. This is your opportunity to finally see your childhood dreams come to fruition! However, picking out your iconic wedding gown is only the first step— you need to complete the look with the rest of your wedding accessories. Veil or Headpiece

Part of the iconic bridal look is a white veil. Like anything else in fashion, important historical events influence the trends moving forward. Likewise, Meghan Markle’s and Priyanka Chopra’s beautiful, long veils have sparked a huge trend in bridal fashion. However, there are so many different styles and lengths for bridal veils. Once you choose your gown, try on some veils as well! Even if you don’t purchase it the same day as your gown, you can try out different types and decide the general look you’re going for. Blushers are also becoming a big trend yet again. Many brides decided to throw them to the wayside due to their original symbolism of purity, but this tradition is anything but archaic! Not only does it no longer symbolize purity for modern brides, but it is a heartwarming tradition for the parents and loved ones who give these brides away. Lifting a bride’s veil to present her to her partner is not only traditional, but it is a way to present her beauty to everyone in the room for the first time. Your guests will see you in your wedding day

attire for five hours, so why not play “peek a boo” for the first couple of minutes? Some brides want to wear a hair comb or tiara, and therefore decide to go without a veil. But why not both?! Luckily for you, you have the amazing resources of Pinterest and Instagram to introduce you to different hair styles and combinations of accessories. Keep an open mind and be sure to consider all of your options—you may be surprised by what you find.

Jewelry

If you intend to wear a specific necklace on your wedding day (some brides wear family heirlooms and use their necklace as their “something borrowed/blue”) bring it with you when you try on gowns! You’re going to want to make sure that they look great together as a cohesive look. In case you try on a dress where the necklace is too long, consider getting the necklace altered. Depending on the type of chain you have, your local jeweler will be able to alter the necklace in a way that can be reversed after the wedding if need be. You’ll also need to wear a

Shoes

The same idea goes for your shoes. Heels with stones and other embellishments are a very popular and beautiful choice for many brides. However, before you walk down the aisle, you’re going to want to try them on with the gown. If at all possible, bring your shoes to the boutique when you try on gowns—or at least shoes similar to the ones you intend to wear. If the shoes get snagged on the tulle or fabric of the gown’s skirt, you’ll want to either consider different shoes, or talk with your seamstress

about ways you can alter the dress to accommodate your shoes. In addition, you’ll want to wear your shoes around prior to the wedding! This goes for the groom as well. Wearing them to your dress fittings won’t be enough to break them in completely, and you won’t want to give yourself blisters with shoes that are improperly worn in. Some brides decide to change into a pair of shoes that are better for dancing during the reception. If you intend to do this, be sure to bring that pair of shoes to your dress fittings as well, so that your seamstress is able to make alterations that will look good for both pairs. Something to think about: during your wedding day, you’ll be wearing mostly white. Why not wear a colorful pair of shoes as a pop of color, incorporating your wedding color into your ensemble, or as your something blue! Be creative and enjoy the process of creating your wedding day look.

Justin Tearney Photography

Complete

bracelet that works with your ensemble. Make sure that all of your jewelry looks cohesive, and generally follows the same style. If you’re set on wearing a “blinged out” bracelet with lots of stones on it, be sure to try it on with your wedding gown before the big day—the last thing you want is to rip or damage your gown by catching it on your bracelet. Our recommendation is to always put your jewelry on after your dress.

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reception design

URBAN CONTEMPORARY

This wedding is all about utilizing vertical space. The draped cloth adds a dynamic element to an already beautiful space, and the candles cascading from the tall floral centerpieces are the perfect touch. photography Ashley Gerrity Photography venue Waterworks by Cescaphe | floral designers Petals Florist & Beautiful Blooms linens & lighting Beautiful Blooms | caterer & cake Cescaphe | invitations Presto Printing band Renaissance Orchestra | dj South Star Entertainment | transportation Limo Today & First Class Limo | videographer Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Video

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real INSPIRATION

styled INSPIRATION

reception design

ORGANIC ETHEREAL

If Cinco de Mayo is your favorite holiday, then why not celebrate your wedding with margaritas, tortilla chips, and guacamole? photographer and stylist Garnet Dahlia Photography | flowers Lavender and Locks Farm invitations Cork and Chambers cake Ciao Bakery

dream weddings | spring 2019

reception design

URBAN CONTEMPORARY

This wedding reception space is so gorgeous that the room is blushing for her! While most of the space features exquisite silver chargers, the bride and groom stand out with a glittering gold “Mr. and Mrs!” photographer Ashley Gerrity Photography venue Downtown Club by Cescaphe Event Group | florals Beautiful Blooms Events wedding gown Bijou Bridal | hair & makeup Philly Hair & Makeup | bride’s shoes Schutz Shoes | wedding rings Victor Canera | paper suite CZ Invitations | entertainment Brian Kirk & the Jirks videographer Kaan Tulger

dream weddings | spring 2019

real INSPIRATION INSPIRATION styled

real INSPIRATION

reception design

CLASSIC ROMANTIC

The bride isn’t the only one wearing white at this wedding! These stunning white blooms perfectly decorate the reception space for this classic romantic wedding. photography April and Bryan Photography venue Linwood Estate | florist Sarah’s Floral Designs | cake Kyrsten’s Sweet Designs | catering JDK Group For more images of this wedding, go to page 30

dream weddings | spring 2019

Martine's

TIPS

get creative! Condense your ceremony and cocktail hour to one tent, then have guests lead to the reception in another tent. It all comes down to your vision and budget. For the purpose of keeping your attire and makeup nice in your pictures, get some clear umbrellas! They’ll protect you from the elements with the least effect on your images. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your dream to the weather, but there are steps you can take to make sure that everyone is safe, comfortable, and stays looking their best!

Bugs

Ashley Gerrity Photography

Planning an Outdoor Wedding Does your Dream Wedding include warm sand, sunshine, and waves crashing behind you? How about a rustic wedding in the countryside? Or even if you’re going for an urban contemporary or classic romantic look, many hotels and ballrooms have outdoor areas such as balconies and rooftops. With so many options to choose from, it’s no wonder why so many couples choose an outdoor setting to say, “I do.” However, with the charms of an outdoor wedding also comes a set of challenges. We want your day to be perfect, so here’s a list of potential challenges and how you can solve them.

Weather

The biggest potential hazard for your wedding day is the weather! Unfortunately, the weather is something that absolutely no one can control.

dream weddings | spring 2019

You’ve been working hard to have the perfect style, hair, and makeup for your special day and you don’t want it ruined by bad weather. Also, your guests don’t want to ruin their best clothes by sitting in the rain. So if you’re planning an outdoor wedding, make sure that there are ways to cover the ceremony and reception areas or ensure that there is an indoor alternative. Check the weather often during the week leading up to the big day. Most tent rental companies require three days’ notice, so keep that in mind if it is threatening to rain. Consider renting more than one tent for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception! You’ll need to keep your guests moving, especially if you need to revamp a space to prepare for the next part of the event. Because of this, you should

In the early spring and late fall, pesky bugs like mosquitoes or gnats shouldn’t be an issue but in the warmer months they can be quite a bother! Luckily, you can make your guests comfortable and also provide them with a cute and personal wedding favor! A little bottle of bug repellant with a tag that says something like “don’t let anyone BUG you at our wedding!” is a cute way to make sure that no one leaves your wedding with bug bites.

Technology

Your DJ or live musicians, photo booth, or other entertainment will need electricity. When you go to scout out your venue, think about what vendors and entertainment you’ll hire for your event, and make sure that they will be able to work with the space and layout. If you want your DJ to set up in a specific spot but there isn’t an outlet nearby, make sure that either you or your venue can provide an extension cord long enough to accommodate for the space if the venue allows it. Some vendors will bring their own cables, but to avoid any

wedding day disasters, you’ll want to come prepared.

Amenities

If there is nowhere for guests to use the restroom at your venue, that is something you’ll need to arrange. Believe it or not, there are restroom rental services that use running water, for the comfort of both you and your guests. In addition, you’ll need to make sure that there is a place for you to dance! If your venue doesn’t have a hard surface to walk and dance on, you’ll need to rent a dance floor from a party rental company. Your guests won’t want to dance with their heels digging into the grass.

Décor

As beautiful as your wedding and reception space may look with the natural beauty all around, it’s still necessary to decorate! Embellish your reception tent with fairy lights, lanterns, fabric, greenery, florals, chandeliers, or whatever you see fit. You may find that decorating this outdoor space is more challenging than an indoor space but you’ll be happier with the end result if you go into your big day knowing the layout and planning how you’ll decorate the space.

Hope for the best!

Whether you’re superstitious or not, you may want to cross your fingers for great weather on your wedding day! You’ve put so much work and planning into this and you deserve for everything to be perfect. However, by planning ahead and making sure you’ve prepared for the worst, you can still make your wedding the best!

Your Wedding Budget, mastered! of their wedding purchases. By the time they figure out that they’ve used too much in one area to have enough for everything, it's too late and they aren’t left with the ability to really style their celebration and make it a unique affair.

Katy Trefry Photography

People view budgets in one of two ways. They either think they’re extremely restrictive or extremely freeing. I personally love budgets because they allow me to relax, knowing what funds I have to work with for whatever I’m budgeting. In this edition of Tips, I’m going to dissect some common wedding budget issues and tell you how to avoid budget blunders! The average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2018 was $35k Philadelphia ($56k) Maryland ($45k) and New York City ($88k). Regardless of the amount, there is a proper way to approach how you use your wedding funds. Too often, I talk with couples who forget to consider the big picture before making one or more

Expect to pay between $4k and $9.5k for all your flowers.

Nothing makes me more sad than when a couple tells me that they used half of their budget to book their venue and that particular one is basically 4 walls…no food, beverage, linens, lighting, flowers or anything! This is totally fine if you are still left with ENOUGH funds to book the average 15 remaining vendors for your Dream Wedding. I can’t tell you what your budget should be or what percentage of your overall funds you should allocate for each category. What I can do is educate you about the average cost of essential wedding vendors so that you’re not surprised when you begin reaching out for pricing and YOU are empowered to effectively manage your wedding budget.

1 2

Bring It Together

Get an idea of your total guest count.

Ashley Gerrity Photography

In summary, follow these four simple steps before you use any part of your wedding budget:

Decide on your total budget amount, based on the number of people you'll have attending and what type of venues accommodate parties your size. Also, consider that you may have funds coming from different sources: yourselves, parents, grandparents, etc.

Decide which vendors you need to have for your Dream Wedding and prioritize by importance from your own perspective.

Based on your guest count, allocate funds to each vendor or category you need to book. Use the list of average prices per vendor to get a feel for what you can afford. Also remember, the more elaborate your theme, the more expensive it will be to style it! Be realistic and don't forget...you get what you pay for!

$ Wedding Vendor Average Costs There are ranges for everything. It's just like buying a car: The better the quality and more accessories, the more the car will cost. CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE (Not including catering/beverage) $3,000 - $11,000 CATERING & BEVERAGE $40 - $300 per person PLANNER / DESIGNER $1,500 - $5,000 PHOTOGRAPHER $4,500 - $9,000 VIDEOGRAPHER $3,000 - $7,500 DRESS & ACCESSORIES $1,500 - $5,200 GROOM'S ATTIRE & ACCESSORIES $350 (Rental) $1,200 (Custom) WEDDING RINGS $400 - $2,500 (bands only) FLOWERS $4,000 - $9,500 DESIGN ELEMENTS & RENTALS $3,000 - $9,000 MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT $1,750 - $3,500 CAKES & DESSERTS $7 - $17 per person PAPER SUITE (Invitations, etc.) $400 - $900 HAIR & MAKEUP $400 - $700 TRANSPORTATION $250 - $800 OFFICIANT $250.00 - $500 FAVORS & GIFTS $400 - $850

Again, all of these are averages. There will be vendors in each category that fall outside of these ranges, either way.

Careful budgeting will bring your vision to life.

dream weddings | spring 2019

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THA & A AN

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real WEDDING

photographer Katy Trefry Photography | venue Excelsior gown BHLDN Bride | hair & makeup MKUP the Beauty Studio planner MX2 Event Design | cake Rosie Creative Cakes catering Excelsior | floral design Petals With Style | decรณr Shumaker PDT | invitation illustration Laura C Moyer For more inspiration like this, visit us at www.DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | spring 2019

real WEDDING

photographer Ashley Gerrity Photography | venue Huntingdon Valley Country Club | wedding gown Bridal Garden bridesmaids gowns Hailey Paige | jewelry Infinity Jewelers hair & makeup Elite Concepts Salon | menswear Enzo Custom cake Ferry Good Treats | invitation design SunnyPrint invitation printing Cards & Pockets | lighting, design, & entertainment Synergetic Sound | videographer Converse Productions For more inspiration like this, visit us at www.DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | spring 2019

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M B E R 15,

real WEDDING

photographer April and Bryan Photography | venue Linwood Estate | gown Jennifer’s Bridal | hair Jenny’s Full Service Salon and Boutique | makeup Elyse Smith | floral design Sarah’s Floral Designs | cake Kyrsten’s Sweet Designs | catering JDK Group music HD Entertainment | videography PhantomLand Media For more photos of this wedding, see page 22 For more inspiration like this, visit us at www.DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | spring 2019

real WEDDING

dream weddings | spring 2019

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photographer Ashley Gerrity Photography | florist Leigh Florist cake Stella Baking | paper suite Paperly Studio dresses Bridal Garden | hair & makeup Elegance Artistry

dream weddings | spring 2019

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Create something fun to wear for your big day at our Flip Flop Bar.

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Treat yourself to a wedding themed cocktail. Take “Ring Selfies” in front of a variety of backgrounds.

Relax for a moment and find your dream dress as you enjoy the fashion show.

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get authentic engagement photos

hen you look at engagement photos, they’re typically staged and taken as an engagement photo shoot months after the real engagement. Here at Dream Weddings, the only “real” engagement photos are the ones taken as someone gets down on one knee! If you’re going to propose, or know that your partner plans to propose sometime soon, be sure that a photographer is present! Years down the line, once you’ve gotten married and perhaps forgotten how you felt at that moment, you will be able to look back at the photos and remember the range of emotions you felt as you got engaged. However, if you don’t want to have a photographer present for your engagement, it’s perfectly fine to have an engagement photo shoot! In order to help you get the most amazing, authentic engagement shoot photos, we’ve put together a list of things you must do. Find a good photographer Most photographers have either digital galleries, or they post their work to Instagram. This provides you a great opportunity to really look into many different photographers and see their unique shooting styles, and knowing what mood or style you’re looking for will be helpful in narrowing down your choices. However, finding the right photographer is about more than just enjoying their photography style. In order to get the best photos, you’ll need to have a comfortable

relationship with your photographer. If you don’t connect well at the initial meeting, you should keep looking! Many photographers offer free consultations, so meet with as many as you need to find one the perfect match for you. Choose a meaningful location Great photography is all about location. Even the most photogenic subjects will look bad if they clash with their location, so you’ll want to pick a place that will work with the theme you’re going for. Off the top of your head, you can probably think of several great, beautiful places for an engagement photo shoot. In addition, the location you choose should be meaningful to both you and your partner. Your engagement shoot tells the story that led to your engagement and eventual marriage, so consider places that have history in your relationship. Many couples don’t consider having engagement photos taken inside of their home, but this is one way to get comfortable photos that are relevant to your relationship. These type of shoots can lead to some very heartfelt, raw photos that are truly meaningful. Dress comfortably We know that you want to look your very best in these important photos. However, in order to do that, choose outfits that FEEL as awesome as they look. You know what feels good to wear, so we can’t tell you what styles are

best for you. But if you aren’t sure if you’ve picked the right outfit, give it a test run by trying it on and moving around! Make sure you’re comfortable in a variety of positions, and that you can walk and move without being restricted too much. Try out some of the poses you’d like to use, but know that your photographer will come up with many more that are tried and true—so make sure your outfit will let you move the way they need you to. Make it about you Your engagement photos can be either as standard or detailed as you’d like, and ultimately, it’s up to you and your photographer to make that call. Some couples decide to use props to add another level of flair and uniqueness to their photos. Musical instruments, pets, or meaningful items make great additions to engagement photos. In addition, many couples decide to make hand-written signs with poems, their wedding date, or cute messages about their relationship. This is a fun way to make your engagement photos extra unique, and can be useful for communicating information (like your wedding date) on social media! Get creative! What’s most important for your engagement shoot is that you have fun. You’re going to look at these photos in adoration for years to come, so you might as well have as much fun with it as you can! Image by Garnet Dahlia Photography

dream weddings | spring 2019

lists you need to make

GUESTS & RSVPS

You'll want to stay organized during your wedding planning process, and the weeks after. These 5 lists will save your life!

WISHES & NON-NEGOTIABLES Maybe you’ll consider this the “fun” list. At this point in your planning endeavors, you’re probably newly engaged and aren’t quite sure what you really want for your wedding. That’s okay! You should start with a list of all of your crazy, fun ideas. Chances are, you won’t be using each and every idea, but while your creative and imaginative juices are flowing, it’s important to document them for when they really matter. As you narrow down this list, you’re going to want to figure out which of the items are non-negotiable. If you’re set on a certain color scheme, you might want to indicate that on your list. We know it sounds tedious and unnecessary, but keeping a list of the most important things is a great way to ensure that you keep your sights on them throughout the planning process.

dream weddings | spring 2019

DAY-OF CHECKLIST To keep yourself as organized and prepared as possible, you will want to create a list of the necessary items to bring with you on the big day. Even if you’re adding small things such as tissues or cotton balls, you’ll likely thank yourself later. Consider keeping this list on something accessible, like a note on your phone. That way, if something randomly occurs to you, you can add it to the list without the risk of forgetting. You may also want to compose a list of what needs to be done on the day of the wedding, and when. In order to avoid confusion, you may want to create a basic itinerary for you and your wedding party, so that everyone knows what needs to be done, and when.

CLASSIC TO-DO LIST This list will grow and change throughout your planning process. Once you’ve figured out what vendors you’ll need, you should make a list of the calls and appointments you’ll have to make. This to-do list can be as minimal or in-depth as you’d like. If your workflow requires you to include items such as “have coffee with maid of honor to discuss wedding stuff,” then add it to the list! Keeping a list like this is merely a way to ensure you do all that needs done, so you can compose it however you want.

As you start to create the list of people you’re considering sending an invite, you’ll have to make decisions about which people are most important to you and your fiancé. Like the other lists, this one will go through several drafts. After you’ve generated a guest list that is agreeable to you both, you’ll send out your save-the-dates and eventually your wedding invitations. As guests RSVP, you’ll want to establish a system for keeping track of how guests respond. This will consist of a system to indicate whether guests will be attending or not, but may also need to include dietary choices if you presented entrée options on your RSVP card. Being very organized at this point will serve you well when you sit down to arrange the seating chart a little later on.

GIFTS & THANK YOUS As a child, you probably dreaded writing thank-you notes. Now that you’re a bit older, you realize that it’s an important part of receiving a gift—especially something as meaningful as a wedding gift. When you and your new spouse open your gifts, be sure to keep a list of which guest gave you what. Unfortunately, there may be some overlap, or you might have received an item that you already own. If this is the case, you may want to create a system of indicating which gifts will need to be returned to the store. As you write thank-you notes to the people on this list, you can use it as a guide for telling you whose note has already been written. This level of organization will keep your mind clearer and ensure that you don’t do more work than you need to!

L A N CA S TE R W E D D INGS

tips & Trends 2.

WEDDINGS

1 . Rustic Chic

Contemporary barn weddings are all the rage right now, and what better place to find the perfect, affordable venue than the scenic farmland of Lancaster County? At a fraction of the big city costs, and with a variety of options for you to choose from you have nothing to lose.

2 . Something Old. . .

Lancaster is know for antiquing. Take some time and explore the county for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewlery to wear with your dress. Or find unqiue items to create centerpieces or decorations to customize your venue.

3 . All In The family

Family style meals are very popular in Pennsylvania Dutch culture. Tie this tradition into your special day... because after all you’re all family now!

Image Courtesy Teal Photography

Image Courtesy Jenny Foster

Image Courtesy Studio 841

Courtesy Melissa Engle

FROM

4. farm Fresh

Some caterers in the area will work with local farmers or co-ops for ingredients, making each dish as authentic as possible. This allows your out-of-town guests to try the real tastes of Lancaster. You can serve traditional PA Dutch dishes or use local ingredients to make creative culinary masterpieces.

5. What a View. . .

Lancaster County is full of lush farmland, rolling hills, and countless vistas to give your day the perfect backdrop reguardless of the time of year. Each season has its own special qualities and charms.

6. Kick up your heels

The music scene in Lancaster is great! With such a variety of local bands and musicians you are sure to find someone to get your guests up and groovin’.

DISCOV ERLANCASTERWEDD INGS.COM

10.

7 . Three Cheers

With a brewing history that earned Lancaster the nickname of “Little Munich of America,” why not serve your guests local libations? We have a variety of local breweries, wineries, and distilleries for you to choose from!

8 . Wild at hearT

Using seasonal blooms can save you quite a bit. Check what grows locally before setting your heart on having peonies in October.

9 . Pucker up

Covered bridges, also know as kissing bridges create a classic Lancaster County photo location.

1 0 . whoopie!

Whoopie pies make a great favor. They are an authentic Lancaster treat that will leave your guest whooping for joy!

C AKE TIPS notes

Keep in mind that some bakeries will not make a naked cake due to the fact that these cakes are more prone to dry out, and are much more difficult to cut and serve. Custom Cakes by Jen

Know how you want your cake iced

Pick your flavors

Know your budget

Nail down the look you want

Naked (no icing around the sides or top) Barely Naked (some icing, but exposing some of the cake) Icing/Buttercream (iced fully) Fondant (iced with a top layer of fondant)

The industry average is $7 per slice. However, you’ll pay more for extra flavors, decorations, and fondant. For a cake that serves 100 people, most bakeries will charge $700-1700. When planning your cake, do not call a venue or bakery and ask “how much does a cake cost?” This is like asking a car dealership, “how much is a car?” It all depends on your preferences and how many people you are planning to serve.

| House of Clarendon

dream weddings | spring 2019

Bakeries will generally have plain vanilla and chocolate flavors available, but many will offer more unique flavors as well. When choosing flavors for your cake, you can’t possibly accommodate all of your guests, so feel free to choose some flavors that you really enjoy!

When you’re looking through Pinterest and Instagram, you’ll see lots of awesome cakes that inspire you. Before you get too excited, be sure to think, “does this match my venue and décor?” and if the answer is no, then keep moving. Come up with some elements you really like, and bring lots of images to your cake consultation! But don’t ask them to create a replica of another wedding cake! This is YOUR wedding cake, and it should be unique to you.

If you have a gluten free diet, don’t get a whole gluten free cake! Not only will it cost much more—around double a normal cake—but will be more difficult to cut and serve to guests. If you require a gluten free cake, get a small cake to be cut in the back! You can still have your partner feed you a piece of gluten free cake during the cake cutting ceremony.

Providence Divine Cakes and Pastries

VyouENDORS didn’t know you needed Dance lessons

Are you worried about embarrassing yourself or your partner when you do your first dance? Then, take lessons! Taking dance lessons is a great, fun way to improve your dancing abilities and spend some time with your partner. Not only will you lower the chances of becoming an embarassment, but you’ll get closer to your partner in the meantime.

Custom signage

Good Spirits Lancaster

Bartending

Not only can they serve the “fan favorites” that your guests will expect to find at your wedding, but they can create a signature drink that is unique to you and your partner! There’s no better way to customize the flavors served at your wedding!

Megan Hamilton Weddings

You’ll need to direct your guests and let them know where to put gifts, what drinks are available, where their seats are, and lots of other things! Hire a professional designer to create custom signage so your guests know what’s what!

Leslie Gilbert Photography

Eddie Belle’s Studio

In order to have your dream wedding, you need a team of awesome vendors! You’ve probably already made strides towards choosing the majority of them, but here are a few you may have missed!

Custom wedding illustrations

You’ll have photos of your special day for years to come, but why not also commemorate your wedding day with a custom illustration? Get your gown sketched, or have a portrait of you and your new spouse made. Frame it and cherish it forever!

dream weddings | spring 2019

couple’s planning guide couple’s planning guide

A wedding can be the most exciting time in a couple’s relationship but it can also become overwhelming rather quickly! With so much to accomplish before your dream day, it’s easy to Apanic wedding can be the on most exciting in a couple’ s relationship can also become over everything your to-dotime list. Whether you’re planningbut yourit wedding in one month overwhelming rather quickly! With so much to accomplish before your dream day, it’ s easy to or over two years, let us help take the stress out of the planning process. Follow this step-bypanicstep over everything on your to-do list. Whether you’re planning your wedding in one month guide and you’ll easily be able to enjoy your Dream Wedding! Now take a deep breath or over two years, let us help take the outanxiety of the planning andstress let your melt away.process. Follow this step-bystep guide and you’ll easily be able to enjoy your Dream Wedding! Now take a deep breath and let your anxiety melt away. STEP ONE _ Determine your budget STEP ONE _ Choose more than one possible _ Determine your budget wedding date _ Choose _ Basedmore thanbudget, one possible on your determine wedding date your guest count _ Based _ Pickonand your budget, determine view several ceremony yourand guest count venues that align reception _ Pick and view several ceremony with your theme (keep your guest andcount reception venues in mind and that makealign sure the withvenues your theme (keep your guest can accommodate) _ Setinyour count mindwedding and make sure the date venues can accommodate) _ Set your wedding date STEP TWO

_ Select the members of your bridal STEP TWO party _ Select _ Choose the members of your a bridal gown tobridal go with party your theme and season _ Choose _ Begina conceptualizing bridal gown to go with and groom yourwedding theme and season party attire _ Begin _ Establish conceptualizing and a weddinggroom registry _ Send party wedding attire out save-the-dates _ Establish a wedding registry _ Send out save-the-dates

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_ _ _ _ _ _

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STEP THREE _ Hire your Dream Team (see next STEP THREE page) _ Arrange Hire your Dream Team (see next consultations with your page) Dream Teamers _ Schedule Arrange consultations food and with cakeyour tastings _ Dream Teamers Reserve a block of rooms at a local Schedule food andout-of-town cake tastings hotel for your guests _ Sendaout Reserve block of rooms at a local invitations _ Book hotel for your out-of-town guests rehearsal dinner venue Send out invitations Book rehearsal dinner venue STEP FOUR

_ Obtain a marriage license STEP FOUR (Important!) _ Complete Obtain a marriage licenseseating chart reception _ (Important!) Schedule a final fitting for your Complete seating chart Dream reception gown _ Finalizea final Schedule fitting forfor your preparations the Dream gown rehearsal dinner _ Packpreparations Finalize for the (Don’t for your honeymoon rehearsal forgetdinner a passport if you’re traveling Packinternationally!) for your honeymoon (Don’t forget a passport if you’re traveling internationally!)

wedding checklist wedding checklist

Venue? √ Gown? √ Panic? √ There are so many little details that go into planning a Dream Wedding and it can become overwhelming rather quickly. This checklist Venue? √ Gown? √ Panic? √ isThere are so They manycan littleworry details that all gothe intopesky planning will ensure your Dream Team complete. about littleadetails Dream Wedding and simply it can become overwhelming This checklist so you can enjoy your special day. rather Worryquickly. free wedding? √ will ensure your Dream Team is complete. They can worry about all the pesky little details so you can simply enjoy your special day. Worry free wedding? √

_ Photo Booth _ Photographer _ Beauty Treatments _ _ Rental DREAM Photo Booth _ Bridal TEAM Accessories Gown & Accessories _ Photographer _ _ Beauty _ Groom’ Transportation (to & from recepTreatments s Attire & Accessories _ Rental Accessories _ Bridal _ Alterations tion for you and your guests) Gown & & Accessories Design _ Transportation _ Venue (ceremony _ Groom’ (to & from recep_ Cakery & reception) s Attire & Accessories _ _ Alterations tion for you and your guests) _ Caterer &(including Videographer Design rehearsal dinner, _ Venue _ Wedding _ Cakery (ceremony Stylist&&reception) Planner cocktail hour & reception) _ _ Caterer Videographer _ Cosmetic (A must!) (including rehearsal dinner, Dentistry _ Wedding Stylist & Planner _ Dance cocktail hour & reception) Lessons (for the first _ Cosmetic (A must!) FOR THE BRIDE dance!)Dentistry _ Dance _ Gown _ Décor, Lessons (for first Linens & the Lighting FOR THE BRIDE _ Reception _ Favors & Attendant Gifts dance!) Gown (if applicable) _ Gown _ Décor, _ _ Fitness Linens & Lighting & Weight Loss Veil or Headpiece _ Reception _ Favors _ Shoes (think _ Florist & Attendant Gowncomfort (if applicable) (ceremonyGifts & reception) for the _ _ Fitness _ Hair&&Weight Veilreception) or Headpiece MakeupLoss (for you & your _ Shoes _ Florist _ Handbag (ceremony (think comfort for the bridal party) & reception) _ Hair _ _ Hotel & Makeup (for you & your reception) Accommodations Jewelry _ Makeup _ Jeweler bridal party)(bride, bridesmaids, wed- _ Handbag _ Jewelry _ Hotel _ Bouquet Accommodations ding bands, groom, groomsmen, _ Makeup _ Jeweler _ Something Old, New, Borrowed (bride, bridesmaids, wedparents, etc.) _ Bouquet _ Music ding bands,(ceremony groom, groomsmen, & reception) & Blue _ Something _ Garter (2) _ Officiant parents, etc.) Old, New, Borrowed _ Music _ Paper (ceremony & reception) (invitations, save-the-date &_Blue Lingerie _ Garter _ Officiant _ Bridal (2)Emergency Kit cards, programs, menus, seating _ Lingerie _ Paper (invitations, save-the-date cards, thank you notes, etc.) _ Bridal Emergency Kit cards, programs, menus, seating cards, thank you notes, etc.) DREAM TEAM

_ _ _ _

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FOR THE GROOM _ Attire FOR THE GROOM _ Shoes & Socks Attire _ Accessories (watch, cuff Shoes & Socks links, etc.) Accessories (watch, cuff _ Boutonniere links, etc.) Boutonniere WEDDING PARTY _ Bridesmaid Dresses, Accessories WEDDING PARTY & Shoes (think comfort for the Bridesmaid Dresses, Accessories reception!) &_Shoes comfort for the Hair &(think Makeup reception!) _ Bouquets Hair & Makeup Attire, Accessories _ Groomsmen Bouquets & Shoes Groomsmen Attire, Accessories _ Boutonniere &_Shoes Flower Girl / Ring Bearer Attire, Boutonniere Accessories & Shoes Flower Girl / Ring _ Wedding PartyBearer Gifts Attire, Accessories & Shoes Wedding Party Gifts

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