SUMMER 2019 DREAM WEDDINGS MAGAZINE by Dream Weddings

be inspired

: online

D REA M WE D D I N G S

be inspired be inspired dreamweddings Dream Weddings Magazine All the latest wedding styles and trends TV Show Blog Vendor guide Linktr.ee/dreamweddings

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

dreamweddingspa

@dreamweddings

dreamweddingspa

+dreamweddingspa717

dreamweddingspa

dream weddings

dream weddings | winter 2019

Katy Trefry Photography

Ashley Gerrity Photography

Contentst $ î

7 MARTINE’S MUSINGS Letter from the Editor 10 WEDDING DRESS STYLES A guide by Tiffany’s Bridal Boutique 11 SAYING YES TO YOUR DRESS STYLE! Helpful hints for purchasing your gown 16 STYLED INSPIRATION Classic Romantic, Urban Contemporary & Organic Ethereal Styles 24 MARTINE'S TIPS Designing your cake & mastering your budget

Katy Trefry Photography

Ashley Gerrity Photography

26 REAL WEDDINGS Allow Real Weddings to Inspire Your Dreams! 34 LET LOVE FLOURISH Dream Weddings Feature 56 WRITING YOUR VOWS Unique ways to profess your love 57 Q & A Questions & answers from Central PAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wedding guru 64 MAKE IT OFFICIAL Places to file for your marriage license

dream weddings | winter 2019

AWA

N AT I

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.

Frank King Photography

co/episodes and 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!

www.DreamWeddings.co dreamweddingspa

@dreamweddings

dreamweddingspa

+dreamweddingspa717

dreamweddingspa

dream weddings

Martine's Katy Trefry Photography

MU SI N GS

HAPPY 2019 NEW YEAR! Maybe you got engaged during the holiday season. Congratulations! What are your resolutions? What are your some of your goals? Let me tell you what they should be…. planning you’re wedding! Now that you’re going to be stuck inside for the winter season, you can cuddle up with a blanket, hot cocoa, and comfy pajamas. You’ll have ample time to relax and begin the strategizing process. Check out the planning guide on pages 56 & 57 for further assistance. This is the season for you to attend every single wedding showcase (also called a bridal show) out there. It’s truly a fantastic opportunity to meet your wedding professionals face-to-face. The average amount of vendors to hire for your special day is approximately 15. Do not feel overwhelmed at these shows. The pros are here to assist and educate you! This issue features tablescape inspiration from Real Weddings. Guess what— the mason jars and burlap trends are coming to a close. Now it’s all about stylishly eclectic décor similar to the store called Restoration Hardware. This includes industrial, urban contemporary feels with a touch of elegance. Traditionally glamorous elements can be utilized with barn venues (if you have chosen one) to create

a marriage of rustic and sophisticated décor. You’re free to “borrow” these original, authentic ideas, should they strike your fancy! Now let’s chat about this spectacular feature! A friend of mine introduced us to an original location by the name of Weaber Lumber. He designed and created six different wooden backdrops—or vignettes—and allowed us to implement them in this shoot. We would like to thank Chip for these, and we would like to thank Weaber Lumber for allowing us to utilize this out-of-the-box location. We also partnered up with Shayla from Tulips & Twine, who created a stunning atmosphere of greenery. I envisioned bringing outside elements indoors by pairing some of the wooden vignettes with lush greens to instill the idea of a forest setting. The greenery is huge right now, ever since the royal wedding with Prince Harry & Duchess Meghan Markle. Plus, did your face drop when you saw her long veil? Mine did! It’s all about the long veils, too and let me tell you…we’re swooning over them! Keep an eye out for a beautiful, flowing veil in the feature. Additionally, you may want to consider an all-together different vibe for your invitations. Create Plexiglas invitations as a WOW statement. This can be done with any style of wedding, even rustic. Amanda from Eddie Belle’s Studio did a fantastic job coming up with this idea! Always remember to be inspired, and be creative. Stay true to you! Visit dreamweddings.co and our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages. Happy Planning, Dreamers!

owner & editor-in-chief MARTINE CAJAS director of business development EMILY GLADDEN digital marketing specialist and writer MADI DODGE creative director KERRY ANDERSON cinematographer MARK YANG feature photographer KATY TREFRY PHOTOGRAPHY

dream weddings | winter 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. So, we talked with Tiffany from Tiffany’s Bridal Boutique in Stevens, PA to bring you tips on choosing the best dress style for you!

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 | winter 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.

say yes!

Chances are, you’ve tried on gowns before. But shopping for your bridal gown is a unique experience, and it deserves to be treated as such! You’d be surprised to know how many mistakes brides make when going to their dress fittings. Avoid frustration and find your perfect dress with expert advice from Martine! Treat it like your wedding day

“You should feel like it’s your wedding day.” This may feel like a cheeky comment, but it’s true! Many brides show up at the boutique simply not looking or feeling their best. Keep in mind that you’re choosing the gown you’ll wear on your wedding day, so consider doing your hair up in a similar way to how you’ll wear it on the big day. Shower right before your fitting so that you’re feeling as fresh and clean as possible! Not only is this the courteous thing to do, but also it’s amazing how much better you’ll feel in the gowns if you’re refreshed and clean. Obviously you don’t want to wear too much makeup, so as to avoid leaving any on the beautiful white gowns you’re trying on. But a little bit will ensure that you feel beautiful in the gowns that you try on.

Bring the right things - and people - with you

One of the biggest issues that bridal boutiques see is when brides bring too many people! You may want to let all of your bridesmaids weigh in, and that’s completely up to you. But you’ll likely find it easier and more re-

laxing if you keep the tag-alongs to a minimum. For many brides, they find that their mother and maid of honor are ideal. In addition to your trusted team, you’ll also want to bring shoes and undergarments that are similar to the ones you intend to wear on the day of the wedding. You may find that you would benefit from getting measured by a professional to ensure that you’re wearing the proper bra or body shaper underneath your wedding gown.

Use the service... and keep an open mind!

They’re there to serve you—that’s why you scheduled an appointment. Most bridal boutiques don’t allow walkins because they want to offer you the service of helping and suggesting gowns. You’ll likely try on between five and eight gowns during your visit, so be prepared! Of course, you should have some idea of what type of gown you’d like. But unless you’ve done your research and know they have the exact dress in stock, they won’t have the dress you’re imagining in your head. So definitely keep an open mind about the dresses that you try on.

Don’t let your excitement get the best of you!

Believe it or not, you can get TOO much of an early start on your dress shopping. You’ll probably start looking through magazines and Pinterest for dress ideas immediately, but you should wait to start scheduling appointments at boutiques. We suggest purchasing your gown eight months to a year prior to your wedding date, so that’s a good time to schedule your appointments. When you go to your appointments, try to limit yourself to ten gowns. We understand that you’d love to try on the whole store in order to find the perfect gown, but this can cause unnecessary confusion. To avoid this, try on the suggested 5-8 gowns per visit.

Make sure your gown fits!

Since your wedding gown needs to fit your body perfectly, you’ll come back to the boutique for several fittings prior to your wedding. The gown will likely arrive at the boutique

four to six months after you purchase it, so your first fitting will fall about three months prior to the wedding. The second and final fitting should be about two or three weeks prior to the wedding, to ensure that everything fits perfectly. Many brides lose weight during the year leading up to their wedding. If you intend to lose weight during this time, let your seamstress know! They are used to this, and can make the necessary adjustments as long as you stick to your plan. But often, brides lose too much weight and then their dress doesn’t fit! If you’ve ever seen a bride have to hike up their strapless gown every five minutes, it isn’t the prettiest sight. To avoid this, keep your seamstress informed about any weight loss plans you have, and stick to the fitting schedule that you make. After you’ve figured out all of the nitty gritty details of your dress shopping plan, have fun! You’ve likely been dreaming of wearing your wedding gown since you were a little girl, and you deserve to find a gown that feels perfect for you. Good luck, and happy shopping!

Katy Trefry Photography

Also keep in mind that dresses look very different when they go from the hanger to an actual body.

dream weddings | winter 2019

Your memories are ours...

cinematic videography to capture the most important moments of your life

www.bambooshoots.net info@bambooshoots.net @bambooshootss

@_bamboo_shoots_

Joe Kelly Photo

717.290.7800 | houseofclarendon.com

TABLE TOP INSPIRATION

No matter what your personal style is, take inspiration from the gorgeous table top designs on the following pages to create an atmosphere that is uniquely you.

d r e a m w e d d i n g s | f a l l / w i n t e r 2 0 1 8 -1 9

styled INSPIRATION

CLASSIC ROMANTIC

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning on a winter inspired wedding, this is the perfect look. Experience the whimsical, wintery setting with silver accents, and white floral arrangements. photography Katy Trefry Photography | table setting B. Kohr Designs floral design Laura of Lauxmont | invitations Anticipate Invitations linens Special Occasions & Queen Street Linens | hand lettered sign Chip Arnold Designs

dream weddings | winter 2019

CLASSIC ROMANTIC

This idea is a blend of both classic and urban contemporary. Think more of a minimalist approach with a wow-factor vibe; simple and elegant floral arrangements. The elongated table set-up is a huge wedding trend. photography David Naples Photography venue Excelsior | lead designer MX2 Event Design | floral design Splints & Daisies

dream weddings | winter 2019

real wedding INSPIRATION

URBAN CONTEMPORARY

Within this Urban Contemporary setting the centerpieces are significant focal points with various floral combinations. The silver chargers, and ghosted chavari chairs are perfect accents. Feel free to make your sweetheart table comfortable by switching out the chairs for a couch. photography Ashley Gerrity Photography venue Downtown Club | floral design Beautiful Blooms | paper suite Shine Wedding Invitations For more photos from this wedding, see pages 26 & 27

dream weddings | winter 2019

real wedding INSPIRATION

URBAN CONTEMPORARY

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all about the drama, this look is exactly what you need. All of the draping and bling makes the room look even bigger. For more drama, think muted gold and high centerpieces. The black chairs create a huge contrast. photography Ashley Gerrity Photography venue Atrium at Curtis Center | cake Cescaphe floral design, event & lighting design, linens & rentals Beautiful Blooms | paper suite Minted For more images from this wedding, see pages 32 & 33

dream weddings | winter 2019

Martine's

TIPS

and hold the current price with your favorite designer.

How To Prepare

Think about your venue and décor when dreaming of your cake! Try to make it cohesive with the overall look of your reception décor. You’ve likely been stalking Pinterest for cake inspiration. If it helps keep you organized, start a private “cakes” board that you can pull up when you meet with your designer. They may incorporate the elements you like, but you should also be open to hearing their suggestions on design. In addition to Pinterest, you should check out the bakery’s social media profiles for past work. You’ll have additional inspiration, plus a general idea on what to expect should you decide to incorporate those elements for your own cake. Keep in mind; you’re paying your designer to create a custom cake, so never ask them to replicate a cake that has already been made. Your cake is an integral part of your wedding, so it should be solely yours.

Pricing and Cake Options

Designing Your Cake Even though your wedding day is truly about the union between you and your new spouse, there’s a third party, which also—understandably—steals part of the show. The cake. Cutting the cake is a heartwarming tradition that newlyweds get to share with their guests, and eating that first slice of cake is one of the most photographed moments of the entire day. So, it’s not surprising that wedding cakes are getting more unique and beautiful every year!

Timing

Timing out your consultations and meetings with vendors

dream weddings | winter 2019

is one of the more difficult parts of planning a wedding, so we’re going to help you plan your intricate schedule of consultations with your wedding vendors! We suggest that you schedule your cake consultation (also known as cake tasting) 9 months to a year prior to the wedding date. This time frame gives cake decorators ample time to specially craft the decorations that will be incorporated into the cake design, but also helps ease the process for the couple. Many bakeries handle between one or two cakes per weekend, so you’ll need a head start if you want to ensure a spot

There’s more than one way to feed a crowd! Some couples get a cake large enough to feed the entire reception, while others prefer to get a small cake and supplement with a sheet cake for guests. However, some bakeries don’t offer sheet cakes, so be sure to discuss this before you schedule your consultation. Cupcakes are a great way to ensure that everyone gets a flavor they enjoy, but can also be more expensive if guests take more than one. There are several options for providing cake for your guests, and it all comes down to the budget and overall aesthetic that works for the couple. Pricing changes from one bakery to another, but generally, pricing is per-slice and averages approximately $8.00 per-slice.

In addition to the price of cake and icing, bakeries typically charge additionally for intricate décor such as fresh fruit, fondant, or incorporating flowers or large amounts of chocolate. Couples might also consider adding a cute dessert table for guests. You can never have too many sweets!

Things to Consider

It’s expensive to be a wedding guest. Between travel, attire, accommodations, babysitting, and a gift, they can be very costly ($250-300 per guest). So when you’re making decisions about cake, do not skimp out. A cake is a very important part of a wedding for many guests, so they’ll feel cheated if they end up with a donut from a donut wall. If you’re set on having a donut wall, you still can! Donut walls along with dessert bars are a huge trend and look amazing! Just make sure your guests also get their traditional slice of cake. Also be sure to cut the cake at a time that makes sense! If you do the cake cutting ceremony early on in the reception, this gives ample time for the kitchen staff to slice the cake and distribute it to guests. We suggest you do so directly after the first dance, while all eyes are still on you! This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to eat his or her cake, and you aren’t left with a bunch of extra cake that you don’t need. You may find that it’s a good idea to serve smaller snacks (desserts, pies, donuts, pretzels, or cookies) at the very end of your reception as a favor, or simply as a snack for the guests who still need to drive home. Keep in mind that these guests have been dancing ever since they ate dinner, so they’re likely pretty hungry! Your wedding can be as creative as you would like, so make decisions that match your ideas and budget—you have options!

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 2017 was $35k - Philadelphia ($56k) Delaware ($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 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.

Expect to pay between $3k and $9k for your decór and rentals.

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

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

Get an idea of your total guest count.

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.

3 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 | winter 2019

Katy Trefry Photography

Your Wedding Budget, mastered!

& AND

CA I

IN TL

N E 2, 2 018

real WEDDING

photographer Ashley Gerrity Photography | venue Downtown Club | gown Angel Bridal | brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoes Badgley Mischka | hair & makeup Glamour Me Bridal | bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;gowns Bill Levkoff caterer & cake Cescaphe | floral design for reception Beautiful Blooms | paper suite Shine Wedding Invitations | band London Bridge | videographer Darrell Aubert For more images from this wedding, see pages 20 & 21 For more inspiration like this, visit us at DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | winter 2019

real WEDDING

dream weddings | winter 2019

& SCOT AM

N E 2, 2 018

dream weddings | winter 2019

IL 14,2 0

NIC

E & MYR OL

real WEDDING

photographer Christina Julia Photography | venue Garth’s Coffeeshop & Art Gallery | gown custom design by Yamil Rivera Quiñones | jeweler Etsy For more inspiration like this, visit us at www.DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | winter 2019

real WEDDING

photographer Ashley Gerrity Photography | venue Atrium at Curtis Center | gown Eddy K, L&H Bridal | bride’s shoes Badgley Mischka | hair & makeup C.E. Facial Artistry | bridesmaids’gowns Hayley Paige | groom’s attire Men’s Wearhouse | jeweler Golden Nugget Jewelry | wedding planner, caterer & cake Cescaphe floral design, event & lighting design, linens & rentals Beautiful Blooms | paper suite Minted | band Jellyroll by BVT Live videographer Well Spun Wedding Videos For more images from this wedding, see pages 22 & 23 For more inspiration like this, visit us at DreamWeddings.co/blogs

dream weddings | winter 2019

D RC

O N & SEA V E

H 3 0, 2

�et love flouris�

Welcome to the indoor setting with an outdoor appeal. We paired lush, full greens for a rustic walk into the forest. Thank you to this fantastic team for working so hard to capture the brilliance of this feature. photographer Katy Trefry Photography | venue WEABER LUMBER gowns Tiffany’s Bridal Boutique | groom’s suits Central PA Tuxedo hair & makeup MKUP the Beauty Studio | jeweler Warren Jewelers floral design Tulips & Twine | invitation suite Eddie Belle’s Studio models Maria Vargo & Chris Schiavone | planning & design Martine Cajas & Emily Gladden

dream weddings | winter 2019

katytrefryphotography@gmail.com

(717)-487-6182

katytrefryphotography.com

Lancaster | (717) 295-2550 Lebanon | (717) 274- 0405

Harrisburg | (717) 545-4354 Pottsville | (570) 628-4000

Walk-ins or Appointments www.CentralPaTuxedo.com Lancaster: 2981 Hempland Road Lebanon: 718 Poplar Street

www.StrictlyFormals.com The dad of child actor Harrisburg: 3824 Walnut Street seen in New York Pottsville: 18 N Centre Street

BESTWEDDINGSHOWCASE.COM

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDAL SHOWS

FREE TICKETS USE ONLINE PROMO CODE: DW8

HARRISBURG

LANCASTER

PREMIER HOTEL HOTEL HARRISBURG

LANCASTER MARRIOTT & CONVENTION CENTER

JAN 6

Receive expert advice from the area’s most trusted wedding professionals, all in one place.

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

JAN 13

YORK

JAN 27 YORK WYNDHAM GARDEN

READING

FEB 10

READING SANTANDER ARENA

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.

C h e c k o u r w e b s i t e a n d f a c e b o o k p a g e f o r c u r r e n t b r i d a l s h o w s c h e d u l e a n d co n t e s t s . 717-733 - LOV E · i n f o @ b e s t w e d d i n g s h o w ca s e .co m

Mouldings Millwork Wall Boards Flooring

weaberlumber.com

petalswithstyle.com

717.392.4000

ELOPEMENTS | INTIMATE WEDDINGS | COUPLES christinajulia.com

@christinajphoto

L A N C AS T E 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’.

DIS COVERLANCASTERWEDD 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!

Avoid Clichés

writing your vows

Profess your love in a way that’s uniquely you with the help of expert advice from Martine. You’ve heard the standard vows that many couples choose to profess in front of their friends and family. They include “in sickness and in health, till death do us part,” and so on. However, many couples decide to write their own vows! Writing your own vows can also be a heartwarming way to make your wedding ceremony unique, and profess your love in a way that’s special to you and your partner. You’ve been coordinating on every aspect of your wedding so far—likely, the vows are one thing that will still come as a surprise to your new spouse. By writing your own vows, you are bringing a bit of the element of surprise to their day. If this sounds like something you would like to try, there are just a few things you should consider before saying “I do” to writing your own vows.

your vows fit with the non-negotiable elements that your officiant must include. If you’re getting married in a church, you won’t be able to write your own vows. In this case, you should consider reading them to your significant other during your first look, or write it as a letter if you aren’t doing a first look. There is more than one way to share this heartfelt message with your loved one.

There are certain words and customs that your officiant has to include in the ceremony, so you’ll want to talk with him or her about the logistics of including your own vows. Before starting to write them, make sure you understand the flow of the ceremony so that

dream weddings | winter 2019

Katy Trefry Photography

Consider Your Officiant’s or Venue’s Constraints

Many great speeches begin with a great quote. And to put it simply, your vows are a speech proclaiming your love for your partner. However, this is not the only way to start a speech. Your vows should be unique, so try your best to avoid clichés. Of course, it’s fine to look at other vows for inspiration, but the point of writing your own vows is that they’re unique and special to you. So keep that in mind!

Don’t Use Too Many Inside Jokes

On the flip side, you also don’t want your vows to be so special to you that your guests aren’t able to follow along. Your wedding guests won’t mind inside jokes if they’re presented in a way that makes some sense, but remember that you invited your guests to witness your marriage ceremony, and they’re going to be confused if your vows are just a collection of references they don’t understand.

Keep it Short

We know, you could go on about why you love your partner for ages—after all, that’s why you’re marrying them. But you’ll have a lifetime to tell them, so it’s best that you keep your vows pleasantly succinct. Take note of how lengthy other vows are, and use them as a reference! After you’ve written your vows and feel that they’re aisle-ready, run them by your wedding party and get their critiques. They’re here to help you have the best wedding possible, so they’re a great resource to help you write and edit your vows, should you need them.

Make Them Cohesive

If you are presenting these vows at your ceremony, be sure to make at least some part of them cohesive. A great way to do that is by ending with a similar sentiment. Saying something cute such as “I can’t wait to be your wife/husband” is a great way to make sure that your unique vows work together.

There are so many different ways of saying “I love you,” and your vows are just one way. Take these tips into consideration, but ultimately, make your vows as personal and sweet as you feel is right. You’ll never get a better opportunity to show your friends and family just how much you love this person, so you should feel free to do it in a way that is perfect for you.

ask Martine

Central PA’s wedding guru answers your most pressing questions.

Q A

How should I decorate for my rustic wedding?

You’re in luck—you can either dress up a rustic barn for your wedding, or add rustic elements to a traditional ballroom! Consider hanging string lights, draped cloth, and organic ethereal greenery to dress up a rustic barn space, or add these elements with organic looking wood elements to a standard ballroom.

Q A

My family is stepping on my toes. How do I get them to back off?

When you plan a big event like a wedding, the people close to you are bound to have an opinion….about everything. It’s important to remember that they are trying their best to help, but it can feel like they’re taking your wedding into their own hands. Remember, your mother, as well as your fiance’s mother, are living vicariously through you, as they didn’t have the same options 30 or 40 years ago! Maybe you were understanding for the first few comments, but after a while, you just want to say “back off, it’s my wedding!” Well, to a certain extent, you should! If your family and friends are getting in the way of your creative vision for your wedding, it makes sense to ask them to stop. However, you might want to listen to their suggestions regarding budget, especially if this isn’t their first time planning a wedding!

Q A

How much of my budget should I spend on a venue?

Obviously, you’re going to need a venue. But if your budget is $32,000 (the average for central Pennsylvania,) don’t spend half of it on your venue alone! You’re going to need a whole team of about 15 vendors to make your Dream Wedding happen, so allocate your money wisely. If you truly want to go all out, then give yourself some wiggle room. Consider inviting fewer guests, or even waiting another year to truly have your dream wedding. But start your planning process with a clear goal of what’s most important to you, and then spend your money accordingly.

Joe Kelly Photo

Q A

I want to lose some weight for my wedding

Great! Many brides choose to drop a few pounds so that they can look and feel the best on their wedding day. But when you set your weight loss goals, try not to set them too lofty. Other than the health risks of rapid weight loss, it could also affect two very important parts of your wedding—the dress and the ring. You don’t want to have to hike your dress up the whole night, so convey your weight loss goals to your seamstress and stick to these goals! Also keep in mind that when you lose weight, you lose it everywhere, including your fingers. If your weight loss is very dramatic, your wedding ring may no longer fit! The last thing you want is for your beautiful new wedding ring to fall off of your hand. Just be careful when losing weight for your big day.

Q A

Where should I start with planning my honeymoon?

A honeymoon is a very special vacation, and deserves to be treated as such. Working with a local travel agency will ensure that you end up going on a truly amazing honeymoon, and may end up costing less than coordinating and booking flights on your own. Believe it or not, these professionals are likely better than you at working out all of the details of traveling! And when you plan your honeymoon, don’t leave the day after the wedding! Give yourself some time to open gifts, spend time with out-of-town guests, and take in all of the excitement that just transpired. Prolong your wedding; give it a week!

dream weddings | winter 2019

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 panic over everything on your to-do list. Whether you’re planning your wedding in one month or over two years, let us help take the stress out of the planning process. Follow this step-by-step 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 _ Choose more than one possible wedding date _ Based on your budget, determine your guest count _ Pick and view several ceremony and reception venues that align with your theme (keep your guest count in mind and make sure the venues can accommodate) _ Set your wedding date STEP TWO _ Select the members of your bridal party _ Choose a bridal gown to go with your theme and season _ Begin conceptualizing groom and wedding party attire _ Establish a wedding registry _ Send out save-the-dates

d r e a m w e d d i n g s | f a l l / w i n t e r 2 0 1 8 -1 9

STEP THREE _ Hire your Dream Team (see next page) _ Arrange consultations with your Dream Teamers _ Schedule food and cake tastings _ Reserve a block of rooms at a local hotel for your out-of-town guests _ Send out invitations _ Book rehearsal dinner venue STEP FOUR _ Obtain a marriage license (Important!) _ Complete reception seating chart _ Schedule a final fitting for your Dream gown _ Finalize preparations for the rehearsal dinner _ Pack for your honeymoon (Don’t forget a passport if you’re traveling internationally!)

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 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? √

DREAM TEAM _ Beauty Treatments _ Bridal Gown & Accessories _ Groom’s Attire & Accessories _ Alterations & Design _ Cakery _ Caterer (including rehearsal dinner, cocktail hour & reception) _ Cosmetic Dentistry _ Dance Lessons (for the first dance!) _ Décor, Linens & Lighting _ Favors & Attendant Gifts _ Fitness & Weight Loss _ Florist (ceremony & reception) _ Hair & Makeup (for you & your bridal party) _ Hotel Accommodations _ Jeweler (bride, bridesmaids, wedding bands, groom, groomsmen, parents, etc.) _ Music (ceremony & reception) _ Officiant _ Paper (invitations, save-the-date cards, programs, menus, seating cards, thank you notes, etc.)

_ Photo Booth _ Photographer _ Rental Accessories _ Transportation (to & from reception for you and your guests) _ Venue (ceremony & reception) _ Videographer _ Wedding Stylist & Planner (A must!) FOR THE BRIDE _ Gown _ Reception Gown (if applicable) _ Veil or Headpiece _ Shoes (think comfort for the reception) _ Handbag _ Jewelry _ Makeup _ Bouquet _ Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue _ Garter (2) _ Lingerie _ Bridal Emergency Kit

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

d r e a m w e d d i n g s | f a l l / w i n t e r 2 0 1 8 -1 9