er fter EvA
2010/2011
Grounds
For a Perfect
Beginning
Featuring Bayliss Ranch and a sampling of other unique venues in the surrounding area
The Best
OUR WEDDING, OUR WAY
Dress For Your Budget
Young, broke and ready to wed!
$1000? $800 $500? Less? Check out the chic styles at every price point
Planning your
Honeymoon PLUS: The Ring, Cake, Wine, Food, Flowers & More
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Contents 2010/2011
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Volume 1, Issue 2
Countdown to a Fascinating Wedding! A timeline to help you get started on the tasks leading up to that special day.
4
THE VENUE
Grounds for a Perfect Beginning Featuring Bayliss Ranch and a sampling of other unique venues in the surrounding area
9 GOWNS 2010
The Best Dress For Your Budget
Whatever your price point, there’s never been a better time for chic, affordable bridal fashions
5
The Wedding Bling How to choose a wedding band that’s as unique as you are.
12
DESTINATION
Honeymoon Careful spending and early planning will have couples flying to far-off places while staying afloat financially
14
OUR WEDDING, OUR WAY
Wedding or Bust!
18
Young, broke and ready to tie the knot! How today’s college couples are getting married
EverAfter
is published annually by Northern California Publications ©2010/2011
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
PUBLICATIONS
The Cake ......17 The Food ......21 The Wine ......20 Flowers ..........22 Take Our Wedding Quiz
Publisher: Carol Peterson General Manager: Jerry Urban Production/Graphics Manager: Jeri Luce Production: Glenn Harrington, Christie Lefforge, Cassie McCampbell Advertising: Katherine Crosthwaite, Jerry Urban Advertising Assistant: Linda Hood
23
....
For advertising information call (530) 879-7815 Northern California Publications 5399 Clark Road, P.O. Drawer 70, Paradise, CA 95967 Phone: (530) 879-7815 FAX: (530) 877-1326 Printed by Paradise Post Printing www.paradisepost.com
Ever After
3
Countdown toa
g n i t a n i c s FaWedding Getting Started
2-4 months before
1 week before
• Discuss finances with everyone contributing to the event and set a budget. • Set the date and ceremony/reception locations. • Establish a guest list. • Start thinking about the style and theme of your wedding. • Start shopping for a gown.
• Buy attendants’ gifts. • Get the men’s fashions in order. • Choose readings/music for the ceremony. • Check marriage-license requirements. • Meet with your caterer to discuss menu and drinks. • Order the cake. • Pick out favors. • Plan and shop for welcome bags. • Arrange party rentals, if necessary. • Book your wedding-night room.
• Give your caterer the final headcount. • Pick up your dress; break in your shoes. • Pack for your honeymoon. • Organize your payments and decide who will distribute them.
6-9 months before • Mail out Save-the-Dates • Interview and book your vendors; don’t forget to get a signed contract. • Choose your attendants; shop for their dresses. • Order your stationery. • Start looking into honeymoon locales. • Register for gifts.
4-6 months before • Book your hair/makeup help. • Plan the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. • Shop for wedding bands. • Reserve a block of hotel rooms for your guests. • Finalize your honeymoon plans.
4-8 weeks before • Mail out your invites. • Do a hair/makeup run-through. • Discuss insurance/bank account changes you’ll need to make. • Send ceremony programs, reception menu and place cards to be printed.
2-4 weeks before • Submit a shot list to your photographer and setlist to your DJ. • Finalize the seating chart and prepare escort/place cards. • Confirm details with your vendors. • Get your final dress fitting.
The Forever Wedding Collection by Franz now available exclusively
1 day before • Get a mani-pedi. • Enjoy the rehearsal and dinner. • Get plenty of sleep.
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Good luck!
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W Features
Patrick Ranch Museum, near Durham
Perfect g n i n n i g Be Sit back, relax Bayliss and inhale Ranch the lavender at
.
By Bonnie Sitter
C.F. Lott Home in Sank Park, Oroville
62 Centerville Estates, Butte Creek Canyon
The rolling lavender fields coupled with the Old World Mediterranean house give the illusion of stepping back in time to a quieter, more romantic era. Such a romantic feel accompanied by the sweet, fresh fragrance of lavender is perfect for an elegant wedding day. Bayliss Ranch offers 30 acres of beauty and is the perfect setting for a wedding, rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, bachelorette spa day, wedding night and post reception brunch. Conveniently located in Biggs, CA two hours northeast of San Francisco, one hour north of Sacramento and only 30 minutes south of Chico, the site makes it easy for out-of-town guests to attend. Here you can bask not only in the beautiful surroundings but also in the farm’s rich heritage dating back more than 150 years ago. Following the devastating years of the Civil War, five brothers decided to create something, to put their efforts into watching something grow and prosper. In 1865 the five Bayliss brothers, acquired 20,000 acres in Northern California and began farming wheat. Over the years the Ranch underwent many farming challenges including devastating floods, crop changes from wheat to rice and even a move from Glenn County to its present location in Biggs. See BAYLISS, page 6
EverAfter | 5
use in personal care and cosmetic products. Bayliss Ranch launched its Wedding and Event Division in December 2009 and officially opened it to public in May of this year (though the ranch has hosted both large scale and more intimate nonprofit and private parties on the property for 20 years). Clary Sage paths wind through the lavender fields. BAYLISS, from page 5
decomposed granite courtyard. It’s like stepping out into the grounds of a Tuscan villa. It’s an old world setting under the historic mother orange tree, beautiful walkways and quaint courtyards and gazebos. Interspersed throughout the property is a blend of European and vintage American garden furniture and art vignettes perfect for sitting with a loved one or for that perfect photo opportunity. For more information, contact (530) 868-5467 or visit the website at www.bayliss-ranch.com or email Bev Wright, Bayliss Ranch Site Coordinator, at info@baylissranch.com.
The most dramatic change occurred in 1983 when Daniel Bayliss Jr. died suddenly leaving his wife Donna Bayliss in charge of a financially-struggling rice farm. Through hard work, determination and a healthy dose of education Bayliss transformed the operation 50 people can be accommodated for dinner in the into a thriving producer and Garden House Boutique. exporter of rice and organic botanicals, Outdoor weddings may be arranged The ranch is now an industry model for on one of the many sites throughout sustainable, organic agriculture. the property. Each features beautiful Bayliss is now considered the matriarch flowering trees, glorious shade trees Sitting among the chocolate mint delights the of certified organic botanicals and their and trimmed lawns surrounding the senses.
Magalia Community Church
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SUNDAY SERVICES: 8:00 am Old Historical Church 10:30 am Community Hall 9:15 am Adult Bible Classes 10:30 am Youth Services All Ages Senior Pastor Wes Bristol
13700 Old Skyway
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| 2010/2011
Old Historic Chapel available for weddings.
891.58655 www.arcpavilion.org
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Butte County and the surrounding areas have many unique venues to fulfill just about any bride’s fantasy. Here is just a sampling of the many venues in area. It’s important to note many parks, museums, theaters, bed and breakfast venues, senior centers and private estates rent facilities for weddings.
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Ehmann Home (Butte County Historical Society Headquarters) located at 1480 Lincoln in Oroville is an option for people looking for a quaint historical setting. The craftsman style bungalow was built in 1911 for Edwin Ehmann by architect John Morton of Chico. Historically speaking, the home is a reminder of the once famous Ehmann Olive Company located in Butte County. The olive company produced one of the first examples of canned cured olives. The famous house is available for weddings and special events for more information call 533-5316. The C.F. Lott Home in Sank Park offers beautiful grounds and an elegant Victorian revival style home complete with a commercial kitchen, covered patio and gazebo. The home was built in 1856 by gold rush pioneer “Judge” Lott who not only helped form California’s government but also started the first Citrus Exchange in California. Today the more than 150 year old the Lott Home is a museum owned by the city of Oroville and features a large collection of antique furnishing, paint-
ings, rugs, clothes, textiles and glassware. It is located within beautiful Sank Park at 1067 Montgomery Street. Portions of the park may be reserved for weddings and other private functions. Call (530) 538-2415. The Jeter Victorian Inn in Red Bluff offers a more intimate wedding site in addition to accommodations for members of the bridal party. The bed and breakfast is located in a historic neighborhood lined with Victorian homes from the 1800s and is only three blocks from the Sacramento River. Inside guests will be impressed by the inn’s extensive collection of antiques, including an Edison phonograph complete with the original cylinder records. An elaborate garden filled with beautiful trees, shrubs and flowers makes for a relaxing retreat for guests. The Jeter Victorian Inn is located at 1107 Jefferson in Red Bluff. (530) 527-7574. Smaller weddings might opt for the grandeur of Chapelle de L’Artiste bed and breakfast located in Paradise. While the property is not well-suited for a large wedding reception, it is quite an elegant location for more private, intimate gatherings. The bed and breakfast was designed with relaxation and comfort in mind. From its cozy reading nooks to its gentle waterfall in the outdoor villa, this destination mixes up a healthy dose of serenity with a touch of sophistication. It even features a charming chapel, a storybook-cute lily pad and fish-filled pond and a beautiful pool and spa. For more information call: 228-0941.
Located on 25-acres in Butte Creek Canyon, Centerville Estates offers an ideal location for outdoor weddings. Pristine landscaped grounds invite guests to meander down paved pathways winding through the tall trees and flower gardens to elegant fountains, a rock waterfall and a private sitting area at the edge of Butte Creek. The downstairs portion of the lodge is fully air conditioned and includes a bride and bridal party prep room, a full-sized kitchen, bar, dance floor and three bathrooms. Four overnight guest rooms are also available. Call 891-0641 or visit their website at www.centervilleestate.com.
Accommodating up to 350 guests, Reynolds Landing in Corning offers the beauty of nature in a fantastic setting along the Sacramento River. The setting is perfect for both brides wishing for a small intimate wedding along the river or for those who wish to have a huge celebration on the beautiful lawn. The 3400 square-foot Riverfront home also accommodates up to ten guests. Reynolds Landing is located opposite Woodson Bridge State Park 20 minutes north of Chico. For more information call 824-4905. See VENUES, page 8
EverAfter | 7
VENUES, from page 7 Hundreds of palms and magnificent koi ponds greet you at
The Palms: Wedding Estate and Pavilion. With a
tropical vacation feel The Palms seems to transport its guests to a vacation paradise complete with tiki torches, fire pits and tropical landscaping. If you are looking for a resort atmosphere with a romantic twist, The Palms is worth considering. The facility features a 6,000-square foot building, indoor and outdoor ceremony area, an indoor pavilion, a caterers kitchen, a projector with screen and much more. Call (530) 894-8000 or visit their website at www.thepalmsvenue.com.
T
D
The Patrick Ranch Museum sits on 28 acres near Durham. It was once a prime hub for communication and commerce it is was located at the intersection of the old Oroville-Chico Stagecoach Road and Northern Electric Railroad. In 2001 Hester Grim Patrick bequeathed the Patrick Ranch, its magnificent home and all the surrounding acreage to the Chico Museum (which established the Far West Heritage Association to manage the ranch). The ranch is available for weddings and special events call (530) 8921525 or (530) 521-2012. or visit their website at www.site.patrickranchmuseum.org.
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| 2010/2011
Mon.-Sat.7-7, Sun. 9-5
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five years ago, if a bride wanted to spend $1,000 or less for a wedding gown, most often she was relegated to designer sample sales or mass-market bridal discounters. Enter the tanking economy, the ensuing recession and the subsequent wedding budget crunch, and designers and manufacturers are quickly hitching their companies to a new trend: creating up-market gowns for under a grand. Bridal lines such as Watters are prominently highlighting the category on their Web sites and in their magazine ads. Others have unveiled new secondary lines, such as Alfred Angelo’s Niki Bridal. And new, modern designers are stepping out, including Ceec Design and Alix & Kelly, infusing their collections with influences from contemporary fashions, and finding reception with equally minded boutiques.
‘Splurge and Steal’ The category certainly got a boost when destination weddings became the rage in the last decade. Brides sought more sand-friendly gowns that could billow before the ocean. Companies like Nicole Miller and J. Crew have benefited from that See GOWNS, page 11
Fitted strapless satin gown in champagne from Faviana. $258
EverAfter | 9
Here are a few highlights of the season grouped by price point. Some of the best gowns available at the $1,000 and under price point (not including tax and alterations) include: Saja Inc.’s empire waist gown made of crinkle chiffon and lightly dotted with handbeaded glass and crystals at the bust line. $925. Ceec Design’s strapless gown in silk georgette with cascading tiers and a silk charmeuse bow on the back. $950. Wtoo Brides’ pleated tulle, trumpet gown. $940. JCrew.com’s limited edition confetti dress, made in Irish linen with a tulle overlay sprinkled with tiers of delicately embroidered disks. $995. Nicole Miller’s stretch metal and silk gown. $880.
If your budget is
1,000
$
If your budget is
Drop down a few Benjamins and brides can look great in these gowns priced at $799 or less: Wtoo Brides’ floor-length baby-doll style with pleated flowers and pockets. $725. Alfred Angelo’s charmeuse over satin dress adorned with rhinestones, pearls & sequins with a chapel train. $799. Saja’s sheer panel v-neck dress with a v-back. $790. Alix & Kelly’s spaghetti strap tealength dress in silk taffeta with gathered tulle trim. $650.
$
800
Not a penny over $
So, how low can you go when shopping for a dress with bespoke allure? Some designers and companies are rolling out options that are under $500, including: Thread’s one-shouldered floor length gown with a high-waisted skirt in matte silk. $480. Niki Bridal’s lace and chiffon gown with crystal beading and sweep train. $429. Faviana’s chiffon gown with beaded empire waist. $300. JCrew.com’s silk tricotine v-neck gown with cap sleeves. $395.
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| 2010/2011
Spaghetti strap tea-length silk taffeta dress with gathered tulle trim from Alix & Kelly. $650
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Melissa Akey Drayer, owner and designer of Thread.If a bride feels like she’s giving up something at this less stratospheric cost, most designers insist that they’re able to deliver on craftsmanship without sacrificing on styling. Even those brides interested in their fairy tale moment can find less expensive ball gowns, which typically cost more due to extra fabric.
a ny r
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ed sashes and new textured ornamentation, like newly shaped stones at Wtoo. Anxious brides can take heart in a new feature offered on dresses.“We’re adding side-slit pockets to some gowns for nervous hands,” Shettel says. “It’s like their good luck charm.”
The Wedding Dress Experience Should a bride stick to a $1,000 wedding dress budget, most designers say she’ll still get the red-carpet treatment when buying her gown, from making an appointment to working with a wedding consultant through the entire dress-buying process. Unless she visits See GOWNS, page 13
Alfred Angelo’s charmeuse over satin dress with rhinestones, sequins and chapel train, left. $799. GOWNS, from page 9 trend. From there, some brides became more attuned to ready-to-wear looks and have embraced the high-low mentality of pairing expensive, designer duds with mass-market accessories or vice versa, says Maria Prince, vice president of Dallas-based Watters Brides.“This is a generation of ‘splurge and steal’ buying,” Prince says. “She’ll buy a $1,000 gown and splurge on $700 shoes that she can wear again and again.”As a result, the stigma of penny-pinching when it comes to wedding planning is in freefall, say wedding experts.“There may have been a stigma in the past where brides maybe felt the more you spent on a wedding gown, the ‘better’ it was, but the change in economy has opened everyone’s eyes to the quality and style that can be found at lower price points,” says
Wtoo Brides’ A-line gown with waist beading, above, $990. Wtoo Brides offers an A-line look with waist beading at $990. For their spring offerings, designers don’t seem to be cutting corners. There’s a return to romance for designers, says Michael Shettel, head designer of Alfred Angelo. Brides will find gowns with floatier fabrics, like crinkle chiffon, satin organzas and airy taffetas. Body hugging styles with dropped waists and trumpet skirts are in, as are oneshoulder looks, a trend brought to the forefront with Michelle Obama’s inaugural gown. Dimensional flowers are getting played up along with bead-
Saja, Inc.’s sheer panel v-neck dress with v-back, $790.
EverAfter | 11
g n l i B g n d i d e W e h T Chances are, you’ve already got the ring - you know, the sparkler that announces to the world that you’re engaged. In fact, you may have helped select the engagement ring yourself. According to a 2009 jewelry survey by TheKnot.com, 36 percent of brides are involved in the selection of engagement rings. However, the bulk of couples - 69 percent, according to the same survey - select wedding bands together. Here are some trends to keep in mind as you shop:
Go for the Gold White has been the go-to metal color in recent years, with platinum and white gold maintaining popularity while palladium and titanium are building a following. 12
| 2010/2011
How to choose a wedding band that’s as unique as you are
However, yellow gold is making is return to wedding jewelry, says Amanda Gizzi, director of communications for Jewelers of America. Classic yellow gold bands get an update with seemingly custom details like hammering, etching and engraving.
Keep it Simple Sometimes, fashion doesn’t say it all. Romantic couples often choose to personalize their rings by having a professional jeweler engrave the wedding date, their names and short words of endearment on the inside of the wedding bands. These engravings serve as hidden love notes, not meant for the world to see. Small flush-set diamonds or gemstones set on the inside of the band also are gaining in popularity.
Anything but Basic Black Black diamonds are making their way into bridal jewelry, Gizzi says. Also, grooms can look to black titanium and tungsten for a unique look.
A Perfect Pair The stacking trend continues in 2010 for women; two wedding bands are worn flanking the engagement ring. Wearing the two bands together creates a balanced look on the finger.
Diamonds Forever Simple, elegant diamond eternity bands remain popular into 2010.
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GOWNS, from page 11
g
a bigger bridal chain store where she can buy off the rack, she’ll most likely have to order her dress, which can take up to three months. Some purchases can be trickier, like buying J. Crew gowns, which are sold only online. Under each dress description is a note to contact J. Crew’s wedding specialist for help with the gown purchase. A few stores, such as Tom’s Bridal in Anaheim, Calif., may charge for gown fittings but will deduct it from the purchase price of a gown should a customer buy it. “We don’t look at how much she spends,” says Aubree Cummings, a sales rep for Celebrations Bridal, a Las Vegas-based bridal gown store in business for 22 years. “Whatever she spends, we treat the customer the same. A bride walks in the door, and whoever greets her stays with her through the entire process.”Vendors say the growing category is opening new doors of distribution.“Retailers all over the country that used to sell gowns for thousands of dollars are looking for vendors to give them the same quality that won’t break their budget,” says Omid Moradi, CEO of Faviana, which designs special occasion gowns, including a White Collection of wedding gowns. “We’ve recently met with a couple of national stores who are interested in our line.”
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EverAfter | 13
Destination:
n e o y m H oon
Careful spending and early planning will have couples flying to far-off locales while staying afloat financially By Danielle Robinson Getting Started How far are we If your honeymoon will take place dur- willing to travel? A honeymoon is the once-ining a high-volume travel season, plan a-lifetime trip that couples dream of, filled with candlelight dinners, long walks on the beach and nights in a luxe suite. But with a 2009 survey conducted by Web-based honeymoon registry site Traveler’s Joy showing that 62 percent of couples plan to cut their honeymoon budgets due to the recession, those dreams may begin to fade. Luckily, with the right planning and a little flexibility, that dream honeymoon can still be a reality. 14
| 2010/2011
ahead - between six and nine months in advance, says Howard Green, cofounder and CEO of Chicago-based honeymoon travel agency MoonRings. “If you’re traveling during a shoulder season or an off-season, you may not need to plan as far in advance,” he says. “We would recommend anywhere from five to seven months in advance, as a general rule.” To pick a destination, Brandon Warner, president and co-founder of Traveler’s Joy, advises couples to give serious thought to a few key questions:
What’s our budget? “The average honeymoon cost $3,657 in 2009, so budgeting $4,000 is a good starting point,” he says.
What’s most important to us? This means pinpointing your main objective: beach relaxation, cultural exploration or adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Which also means considering how much time you have, says Green. “If you’ve only got five days and you live in Chico, it’s probably not enough time to go to Australia or New Zealand,” he says. What destinations will offer the best weather while we’re there? Off-seasons are off-seasons for a reason: Research rainy periods and average temperatures for your dates before you book. Warner says once these questions are answered, couples should be able to narrow the options. “Once the couple has a short list, they should talk to friends who have been to those destinations and do their own research,” by reading newspapers, Web sites and travel magazines, he says.
Afford your voyage Any destination has the potential to be costly, so careful financial planning is key. “We’ve had couples honeymoon for a month or a week and spend the same amount,” Warner says. Play your
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cards right and you may be surprised how far your dollar can stretch. Warner says the simplest first steps a couple can take toward saving dough are booking early and taking advantage of any frequent flier miles or hotel points. “Most airlines start to release seats at about 330 days [in advance],” Green says. If you don’t have your heart set on one location, traveling where the dollar is strong lets couples live large on a shoestring budget, Green says. He recommends Costa Rica and other Central and South American locales. “In terms of activities and food and beverage, you tend to get a lot for your money there,” he says. But don’t book a trip to Argentina just yet. “In general, the farther you fly, the more expensive it is,” Green says. Stick to northerly South American spots; the flight will be cheaper and you’ll still get the warm beaches and affordable eats. For lodging, ditch the pricey resort or hotel and consider renting a home, Warner says. You’ll be able save money by cooking instead of dining out at each meal and gain the seclusion of a private residence. To really cut costs, both men suggest staying closer to home. “Airfare can cost almost 40 percent of a honeymoon, so by finding a place within a short flight or a daylong drive, there can be significant savings,” Warner says. If your dream destination is non-negotiable, however, fear not. “Consider delaying two or three months,” Green says. That way, you can get your dream spot at the lowest possible rates. Couples may also want to contemplate shortening their honeymoon by two or three days, to free up their food and lodging budget, Green says. Whatever the final decision, your honeymoon is sure to provide you and your spouse with lifelong memories. Whether in Paris, France or Paris, Texas, this is just the embarkment of a much greater voyage together.
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See next page for Simple, Stress Free Honeymoon Secrets EverAfter | 15
Simple, Stress-Free Honeymoon Secrets The Travel Channel’s Samantha Brown offers her tips for a perfect postwedding trip. Here are her suggestions for leaving the wedding all behind and having a blast on your ’moon.
1
You’ve just spent a year
deciding on things like the perfect dress to the napkin fold – give yourself a break and don’t over-plan your honeymoon. Wait to book excursions like snorkeling or a helicopter ride for when you get there.
2
Factor in “door-to-door” travel time. It may be a
five-hour flight, but total travel time could be almost double that amount. If you only have a week, choose a closer location so you’re not
spending a chunk of your honeymoon in transit.
32
Look beautiful in your pictures. It’s a gorgeous sun-
set picture of the two of you, but your face is so shiny it’s almost reflective. Always bring powder, waterproof mascara and a little lip gloss – now post those pics on Facebook!
4
Stay away from organized tours – there’s nothing
romantic about being with 30 people on a bus. Splurge on a personal guide or driver to take you around and get a local’s perspective of where the best beaches and spots (hint: no tourists) are.
Find out the peak times of the places you want to go to – beach, Machu Picchu, museum – and avoid at all costs. General rule is if you go first thing in the morning or after 4 p.m. you’ll have the place to yourself.
5
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The Graphic Fox, Ink.
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By Ch
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| 2010/2011
Ink.
Budget Cake, Luxe Flavor Here’s how to get the most cake for your money
By Christopher Adamson
If you don’t watch it, the wedding cake can quickly become a huge expense. Splurging on five tiers with multiple flavors and sugar flowers in every bite isn’t worth the high cost for everyone, so here are some inexpensive ideas for a cake that’s right on target.
Price Tiers The first and most important thing to remember is to be honest and clear about the budget you have in mind. If you’re having a bakery prepare the cake, be sure to tell them about your budget concerns up front at the tasting. Some bakeries also have price minimums, so it’s a good idea to get the cost issue squared away first. “When I ask my [clients] about their budget, I’m not asking this to see how much I can get out of them,” says Keli Fayard, the co-owner and chef at Vanille Patisserie in Chicago. “I’m asking this so I can design a cake that they will love and they’ve budgeted for. I like to come up with a design that includes a splash of color and a little wow-factor yet still falls within their preferred price range.” When planning the cake of your dreams, the general rule is that the more time-intensive it will be to make, the more it will cost. This means adding flavors, tiers, or even changing the
shape from round to square will increase the cost. Heavy use of fondant icing or sugar flowers also can bump up the price, as can custom colors if the decorator chargers for hand coloring. “To keep costs down, choose simple, round and white,” says Fayard. She recommends adding your own decorations just before the reception, going with fresh flowers, lace or ribbon. They’re not hard to work with and make a big impact.
Flavor Doesn’t Have to Be Frugal One thing that you should not skimp on, however, is the taste. “No one should ever sacrifice on flavor,” says Cheryl Kleinman of Cheryl Kleinman Cakes in New York. “The cake should always taste really, really good. The couple and the guests should be very satisfied.” She suggests getting a small, tastefully decorated two- or three-tiered cake for cutting in the ceremony, then sheet cakes to serve the guests. This way, you
won’t have to skimp on ingredients. “The money should go into having a great-tasting cake,” Kleinman advises. “Lower-end bakers aren’t using the best ingredients, but the high-end ones are, even ingredients on an organic level.” Your guests will remember the taste of world-class chocolate more than they will the intricate details of the sugar flowers. Plus, it’s not going to last forever - you’re going to end up eating it anyway.
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EverAfter | 17
Our Wedding, Our Way
Wedding or Bust! Young, broke and ready to tie the knot! How engaged college couples are getting married today
Alyssa Derose, 21, and Zach Gaidar, 22 began dating in high school and attended Western Illinois University together. By Melissa Tussing
Setting the Date
The story of two kids tying the knot fresh out of college is hardly new. But in the midst of a rough economy, the story is becoming more complicated. For two doe-eyed couples, planning a 2010 wedding has meant sacrifice, persistence and a healthy dose of DIY.
Alyssa and Zach initially planned to get married in April 2011. “It just seemed so far away,” Alyssa said. “We didn’t know what would be going on in our lives so far away from now.” To save money, the couple decided to hold their wedding on a Friday. “It cuts the cost in half,” Alyssa said. “It’s the same with photographers, going to DJs, anything like that.” But that decision poses its own challenges. Some guests have offered to take the day to help the couple set up. Others have said they can’t attend because they can’t take the day off of work. Alyssa’s main concern is that her rehearsal dinner is on a Thursday. “We’re probably going to use the rehearsal dinner, instead of having more family, as just the wedding party,” Alyssa said. Hillary and Jeff decided to get married in April to catch the end of the wedding off-season. But Hillary said she’s already noticed venues booking up more quickly than usual.
The Couples _______________________ Hillary Sowatsky, 21, and Jeff Hentschel, 23: Hillary and Jeff met as students at Northwestern University. Jeff graduated in June 2009 and started working for Ford Motor Co. in Detroit; Hillary will graduate a quarter early in March 2010. The future Mr. and Mrs. Hentschel will tie the knot April 10, 2010 at Hillary’s home church in suburban St. Louis. Alyssa Derose, 21, and Zach Gaidar, 22: Alyssa and Zach began dating in high school and attended Western Illinois University together. The future Mr. and Mrs. Gaidar will exchange vows Oct. 1, 2010, at Prairie Crossing in Grayslake, Ill., an outdoor venue with a barn and a gazebo. 18
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Finalizing the Guest List The easiest way to cut money is to cut the guest list, Hillary said. “If you cut one table, that’s 10 meals, linens, the centerpiece, invitations for everyone and various other stationery and favors,” she said. For Alyssa and Zach, cutting down the list quickly turned to cutting down on invited family members. Alyssa’s dad is one of 10 children; Zach’s mom is one of six. “We definitely had to cut people out,” Alyssa said. “We cut out the younger cousins. We just invited our age.” A huge priority for Hillary and Jeff has been to create an environment that can include more people even if the theme is less extravagant.
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“When I got engaged, I knew it was more important to me to have everyone there that I want to have there,” Hillary said. But even encouraging people to attend the wedding proved to be a challenge. “I have relatives who are out of a job that might not be able to come to the wedding,” Hillary said. “It’s an added pressure. You think: Will people feel obligated to come? Is there anything we can do to make it more feasible to come?” One idea was to market the wedding as family weekend. Hillary’s family has a reunion every two years, but this year the family was unsure who would be able to make it. “My mom turned [the wedding] into a reunion weekend,” said Hillary, who included pamphlets for St. Louis attractions with the save-the-dates.
Finishing Touches Fitting all the wedding essentials has forced the couples to get creative. Alyssa’s wedding favors double as place cards. A friend who is a graphic designer will create all the stationery for their wedding. Alyssa and Zach just have to provide the paper. Hillary and Jeff are going for signature cocktails rather than a full bar. “We’re trying out different drinks that are local to the cities that have been important to us,” Hillary said. They’re working on a drink for St. Louis and for Chicago, and Hillary said she hopes to have a purple drink for Northwestern.
What are you doing to save money? Here’s what the young brides had to say:
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Have the Wedding on a Friday: • “It cuts the cost in half,” Alyssa said.
Keep the Guest List Trim: • “We’re probably going to use the rehearsal dinner, instead of having more family, as just the wedding party,” Alyssa said. • “If you cut one table, that’s 10 meals, linens, the centerpiece, invitations for everyone and various other stationary and favors,” Hillary said. © CTW Features
The Secret Life of a College Fiancé Both Hillary and Alyssa like to keep their wedding planning and student life separate. Hillary knocked off most of the planning over the summer. Alyssa found her dress before school started and will look for a caterer and photographer at home over the holidays. Alyssa said fitting her wedding into a tight budget has been stressful. “We have to step back and look at the situation we’re in,” she said. “He’ll be 23 when we get married Hillary Sowatsky, 21, and and I’ll be 22 ... we still Jeff Hentschel, 23, met as have college loans.” students at Northwestern University. But getting married now, even within her budget, just feels right. “Every girl has a dream wedding with an image of having a wedding planner and a beautiful, huge wedding,” Alyssa said. “We could be over the top, and I’m just not that person.” Hillary said it’s both easier and more difficult being engaged and trying to find a job. “Because Jeff graduated first and accepted a job first,” Hillary said, “he’s made the decision of where we’re going to live. “It does make it more difficult because I have to look in such a concentrated area. But come April, I do have someplace to live ... it takes the pressure off.” But being away from Jeff has made wedding planning more complicated, too. Jeff wants to stay involved, but since he can’t make it to meetings with Hillary, she just takes good notes. “It’s hard being apart,” Hillary said. “But the next time we’re together we’re going to be together for the rest of our lives.”
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The
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Custom Bridal Party Jewelry & Accessories
By Christopher Adamson
Wine expert and Web sensation Gary Vaynerchuk dishes on the best wines for your big day – and your budget Wine with dinner – where to begin? There seems to be an infinite number of wine choices and pairings out there, and almost as many ways to ruin either your guests’ meal or your budget with the wrong selection. Enter Gary Vaynerchuk, a video-blogging wine guru (www.winelibrary.tv). He’s here to make sure the wines at your wedding not only satisfy your budget but also deliciously reflect your personality, as well.
Get Personal
His first suggestion is to make friends with the person who sells and stocks the wine when you’re shopping. “The best strategy is to form a relationship with your wine retailer and try new things,” he says. “As they learn your palate and what you like, they’ll be able to suggest new and interesting wines that you may never have heard of and would never have tried on your own.”
Pairing Versatility
As for finding the perfect wine pairing with your reception entrées, the general rule is to match flavor intensity – a lighter menu with a lighter wine, a richer menu with a richer wine. For the best for your budget, however, Vaynerchuk recommends going with a versatile wine, like some from the Dao, Douro and Alentejo regions of Portugal. That way, guests can have a meal choice and you don’t have to worry about buying a large variety of wines. “Portuguese wines are without question the single best value in the marketplace right now, making them great for weddings where a lot of wine gets wasted,” says Vaynerchuk. “You will find many $6 to $10 wines that knock your socks off, both red and white!” He adds that wines from Argentina and Southwest France also are deliciously affordable right now.
Come to for your Rehearsal and Wedding Party
Toast Faux-Pas
We know it can be tempting to splurge for this important moment, but Vaynerchuk advises to keep it cheaper. “People buy the $40 house brand Champagne [for the toast] when they can just as easily spend $10 to $12 on a prosecco or Spanish Cava,” he says.
Let Them Drink Syrah
It’s one thing many couples forget – you don’t have to serve Cabernet or Chardonnay just to please guests, especially if you don’t want to. Vaynerchuk says to taste and explore many options. He adds, “It’s your day, drink wine you like!”
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s t a E d o o G While the “I do’s” may be a wedding’s main event, the edibles at the reception are a strong second place. Food not only serves as a “thank you” to guests who’ve given you gifts and gathered to celebrate your union, it helps sop up the alcohol and can keep the festivities going all night long. A great party is as simple as finding the right food to match an event’s style.
By Anna Sachse
Service Selections
Food service options include plated and family-style dinners, buffets, stations and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Each one helps set the tone of an event, says Bridget Pelster, a sales and catering manager for St. Louis-based Butler’s Pantry. Seated dinners are typically more formal and elegant, family-style meals are more intimate, buffets are more relaxed, stations are more interactive and hors d’oeuvres allow a lot of flexibility. First, determine the style of service you want based on the vibe you’d like to create, and then start playing around with menu ideas based on your budget and the timing of the event. “If you’re having an evening wedding and you think the reception will last more than three hours, you should plan on serving something fairly significant,” says Molly Schemper, co-owner of Chicagobased FIG Catering. “At the minimum you want heavy hors d’oeuvres with a couple protein options, and it’s a good idea to make sure guests are aware there won’t be a full meal.” If the budget is limited but food is a priority for you, consider opting for a Sunday soirée, an off-season wedding date or an afternoon affair, when you can usually get more bread for your buck.
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It’s simple: People gotta eat. Here’s how to select the right options for perfect event Plating Prices
Catering costs can vary widely, from as low as $20 per person at a banquet hall up to $200 per person at a luxury hotel, says Schemper. The city, the venue and the menu all play a part. Big towns are often more expensive; standard venues may have minimums; nontraditional locations may require additional rentals; and no matter where the event takes place, the quantity, variety and style of cuisine will drastically affect price. In general, the most expensive options are multi-course plated dinners and stations, says Pelster. The next level down is typically limited-course plated dinners and family-style meals, followed by buffets. And the most affordable option is heavy hors d’oeuvres, either passed or served buffet-style.
The caterer can help you determine what style works best for your budget and will often adjust a menu to meet your needs, such as forgoing coffee service in exchange for an additional appetizer or two.
What’s New? Stations –
Brides like this less formal setting because it allows guests to mingle, says Dieckmann, and they can customize stations to reflect a theme.
Ethnic Options – Even if you opt for the classic beef-or-chicken dinner, you can showcase your heritage with ethnic stations or hors d’oeuvres, says Schemper. See GOOD EATS, next page
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EverAfter | 21
in
Stay Fresh
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Use blooms to add personality and panache to your party By Melanie Wanzek Wedding flowers are more than just petals to toss or a bouquet to throw – they’re an accessory that can complement your dress, bring life to your venue and offer an important opportunity to express your overall style and personality. This year, the best way to be up-to-date is easy: be yourself.
Assessing Arrangements
Before going to the florist, first decide on overall budget, venue and color scheme. All these play important roles in determining the florist’s ideas. The budget will determine appropriate suggestions, while the venue will suggest colors and décor needs. Bare, funky spaces may need a large number of decorations while ornate hotel ballrooms might not. Pinpoint your personal style by collecting pictures from magazines and online resources. The photos you choose will reveal qualities that are important to you, such as color, arrangement and complexity.
GOOD EATS, from page 21
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– Newlyweds are serving quirky items that they really enjoy or have a history with, says Sheldon. “One couple served their favorite McDonalds hamburgers as a latenight snack, while another couple who actually met at 7-11 served drinks in 7-11’s plastic glasses.”
Farm-to-Table – Everyone is interested in fresh, local foods 22
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Bloom Budget
Professional florist Maureen deBruyn, owner of deBruyn designs in Maple Grove, Minn., says couples tend to spend about 10 percent of their overall budget on flowers. The price depends on many factors, such as the number of bouquets and arrangements or whether the blooms are in season or out of season, local or non-local. To keep costs down, avoid specifying specific flowers. “If you have a general idea of color, type and how much to spend, your florist can come up with something,” deBruyn says.
Fresh Ideas
Many fresh color ideas are emerging this year for brides to experiment with in their flowers, according to McGukin. Greens mixed with buttercreams, delicate pinks and fresh blues are a popular
right now, says Pelster. “It’s a great way to give your guests a taste of your hometown.”
Comfort Foods – The downhome trend continues strong: macand-cheese in tiny dishes, gourmet sliders, pigs-in-a-blanket and mashed potato bars, says Brooke Sheldon, owner of Lilybrooke Events in Kennebunkport, Maine.
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neutral that suggests an eco theme.The retro look will be popular, sweetly complemented with a mix of soft, burnished yellow tones. For home weddings, which are on the rise, McGukin suggests a splash of color: bright orange, hot pink, sunny yellow, electric blue. Larger, looser bouquets also are making a comeback, deBruyn says. Bouquets will be soft and wispy with more greenery and texture. Rather than wiring each flower into place for a symmetrical arrangement, deBruyn says she now aims for a more natural look. Whether you go big, small, bright or neutral, spend time using flowers to show off a piece of who you are. Says DeBruyn: “They should bring out the joy for your whole event.”
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Keep it Simple Play up the component of your wedding dinner that matters most to you, says Barb Dieckmann, of Butler’s Pantry catering. If you’re a foodie, go with basic china and linen and spring for five-star cuisine. If you care more about memorable décor, add personal touches to the buffet, such as grandma’s linens, mom’s platters or custom menus, adds Molly Schemper of FIG Catering.
inQuizitive? Wedding P’s and Q’s
By Tresa Erickson
Have you recently become engaged and are looking forward to planning your wedding? Whether you’re in the initial stages or nearly through, planning a wedding can be a lot of work. For many, etiquette is a must. How well do you know your way around the traditional wedding dos and don’ts? Take this quiz and find out.
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What is not an appropriate way to recognize a deceased family member? A) Reserving an empty seat at the ceremony B) Placing a single flower upon the altar C) Mentioning the deceased’s name in the invitation
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What shouldn’t the bride wear on her wedding day? A) Watch B) Earrings C) Necklace
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Who gives the first toast at the reception? A) Bride’s father B) Best man C) Maid of honor
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Who should raise their glasses during the first toast? A) Bride and groom B) Best man C) Maid of honor
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How should thank-you cards be written? A) Typed B) Handwritten C) Either is acceptable
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What should be included with the invitations? A) List of gift registries B) Directions to the ceremony and reception C) Note requesting that children remain at home
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What does the bride pay for? A) Invitations B) Officiate’s fee C) Limousine Who should not host the bridal shower? A) Bride’s friend B) Maid of honor C) Bride’s sister What is considered to be a no-no on the gift list? A) Money B) Appliances C) Furniture
10 When should the wedding cake be cut? A) Beginning of the reception B) After dinner C) Either is appropriate 11 What is not a responsibility of the maid of honor? A) Holding the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony B) Making the travel arrangements to the ceremony C) Helping with the thank-you notes 12 Who pays for the honeymoon? A) Bride B) Bride’s parents C) Groom
Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-B, 4-A, 5-C, 6-A, 7-A, 8-C, 9-B, 10-C, 11-B, 12-C
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How well did you do? Don’t worry if you missed some. These rules apply to how things are traditionally handled—none of them are set in stone. Many couples, in fact, choose to break with tradition, so go ahead and do things as you see fit. EverAfter | 23
One should never try to “outshine” the bride, but if you do...
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