Wedding Guide 2015

Wedding Guide 2015

Your complete guide for event planning, beauty tips, wedding trends, and suggestions to make your big day a huge success.

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Smile makeovers before the wedding Authored By Denise Mann Contributions By Nancy Casey

prove the appearance of teeth that are chipped, broken, cracked, stained or have spaces between them. With bonding, tooth-colored materials are applied, or bonded, to the tooth surface. “We usually fill small spaces with cosmetic white bonding,” says Dr. Lerch. “This can close space and it is a simple, non-invasive and conservative procedure.”

Veneers are another popular choice for brides and grooms, says Dr. Lerch. These thin, custom-made shells cover the front side of teeth, and can be used to treat spaces between teeth and teeth that are chipped or worn, permanently stained, poorly shaped or slightly crooked.

Crowns may be needed if porcelain veneers won’t do the trick. A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth. Crowns can restore a tooth’s shape, size and strength and/or improve its appearance. Crowns cover the visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

You’re wearing an ornate white gown, your hair is in a fancy updo and you’re holding a bouquet of roses fit for a queen as you stare into your beloved’s eyes. It’s exactly how you always imagined your wedding day to be.

Then the photographer says “smile.” You panic. Scared that the seismic space between your front two teeth or your discolored, uneven smile will forever mar the photos of what should be the happiest day of your life – your wedding day.

The wedding of your dreams doesn’t have to be a nightmare. From new whitening techniques to porcelain veneers and other restorative dental work, the smile of your dreams is within your reach come your wedding day.

“If you think your smile will mar pictures or make you self conscious, then your wedding is the right reason to have a smile makeover,” says N. Summer Lerch, DDS, the founder of the Center of Esthetic Dentistry in New Haven, Conn., a past president of the New England Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).

“Consider getting an initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist when you get engaged,” advises Dr. Lerch.

“If you do it too close to your wedding day and anything goes wrong, there is no leeway,” she says. “You really want to start cosmetic dental procedures with as much time as possible to make sure it’s done right, and to give yourself time to enjoy your new smile and get used to it.”

“So many factors can impact the optimal outcome, including how straight the teeth are, what the condition is of the gums and whether there are existing crowns or fillings, so it’s definitely best to be evaluated well before the big event,” adds Larry Addleson, DDS, FAACD, a cosmetic and reconstructive dentist at The Art of Dentistry in San Diego, California and past president of the AACD. Regardless of what is wrong with your smile, there is likely something a cosmetic dentist can do to improve it by your wedding day, including: White Wedding, Whiter Smile “People always want a brighter smile, so tooth whitening is something we see a whole lot of before weddings,” Dr. Lerch says. There are many tiers of tooth whitening available today, she says. “The darker your teeth, the more help they need,” she explains. “If you have nice white straight teeth, and basically like the color, then over-thecounter whitening strips are good because they give you that extra little whitening,” she says. But if you have significant discoloration, or discoloration on the sides of the teeth, these strips likely will not be sufficient.

The next step is usually take-home whitening trays or laser whitening. Both have advantages and disadvantages, she says. “It’s a personal preference,” Dr. Lerch says. “If your teeth are really dark and you want to whiten them quickly, laser whitening may be your best option,” she says. Laser whitening is often the choice for people who

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Cosmetic Tooth Contouring Before the Wedding Cosmetic dentists can correct minor defects in the shape and appearance of a tooth through a process referred to as tooth contouring or tooth reshaping.

“This is sort of like filing your nails,” Dr. Lerch explains.

“Let’s say one tooth is longer or pointed or has a chip that needs to be smoothed out, then with a little cosmetic contouring teeth can look pretty, without the need for full braces or a crown,” she says. It’s not painful either. “It’s pretty much like when you are doing your fingernails, you know something is being done, but it doesn’t hurt,” Dr. Lerch says.

For best results, “bring a picture of a smile you like and say ‘my teeth are square and these are rounded. I’d like mine rounded,’” she says.

don’t like the idea of wearing mouth trays.

“Take home trays are more expensive than laser whitening and take more time (but) you may get deeper whitening because you are bathing your teeth in whitening gel for a longer time,” she says.

Wedding day tip: If you choose trays or strips, do a touch up the night before your big day. “Your teeth are always the whitest the day of and the day after whitening,” she says.

Restorative Dental Work Before the Wedding Like options for whitening teeth, there are also several routes a person can take to restore broken, chipped, cracked or stained teeth.

Bonding is typically the first line. Bonding can im-

Braces Before the Wedding Braces are not just for kids. Gone are the train track, heavy silver braces of yesteryear. In their place, are more aesthetically pleasing – sometimes clear or even invisible – braces. Braces can help straighten crooked teeth, reduce crowding or fill in spaces where teeth do not meet properly. While technology has changed the way braces look, they still don’t work overnight. Start as early as you can if you want a perfectly straight smile by your wedding day.

Regardless of what procedure you choose, make sure your dentist is skilled in cosmetic dentistry, says Dr. Addleson.

To help make the best decision, ask to see before and after photos of actual patients, he says. In addition, “ask to speak with existing patients of the dentist and get a sense for the quality of care the dentist provides,” he suggests.

Continuing education assures that the chosen dentist is up-to-date on the latest techniques and materials in cosmetic dentistry. Questions to ask include does the dentist attend continuing education courses regularly, he says.

Also ask if the dentist passed a credentialing examination to become accredited by a group such as the AACD.

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How to throw a

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outdoor wedding

Metro Services Outdoor weddings are romantic when done right, and a growing number of couples are exchanging vows amid an expansive garden or with the splendor of the pounding surf providing a picturesque backdrop. If Mother Nature cooperates, outdoor weddings can go smoothly. But even if the weather does not cooperate, there still are ways couples can enjoy a memorable ceremony.

Preparation and planning help keep outdoor weddings moving along. Weather can be unpredictable and unforgiving, so it is always best to account for various scenarios.

The following are some tips to consider.

• Be mindful of hot weather.

Many outdoor weddings occur when temperatures are at their warmest. As anyone who has had to sit outdoors in the blazing sun for an extended period of time can attest, it can grow quite uncomfortable, especially when everyone is dressed to the nines. Advise guests in advance that the wedding will be taking place outdoors and to dress accordingly. Arrange to have shaded areas for guests who may struggle with the heat.

Keep chilled bottled water nearby so guests can stay cool and refreshed. Ask the officiant to keep the ceremony brief so that guests are not melting away in their seats.

• Keep wind in mind.

A stiff breeze can upset tents and wreak havoc on hairstyles.

Be sure everything outdoors is properly secured and weighted down. Avoid light fabrics on a wedding gown that will get swept away by wind. A short, blusher veil may be more appropriate than a sweeping train. Couples should advise

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their hairstylists that they will be getting married outdoors, and looks should be well secured by bobby pins and gel to keep hair in place. Stick to real dishes for food service, as plastic or lightweight materials may get blown away.

• Check for power sources.

Choose a wedding location with easily accessible power outlets. Guests will certainly want to hear the vows, and that may require the use of microphones and a sound system. Having power available also makes it easier for bands and musicians to set up their equipment for an outdoor reception. If the wedding will be stretching into the evening hours, electricity will be needed to power supplemental lighting that illuminates the festivities.

• Ensure accessibility.

Outdoor terrain can prove tricky, especially for older guests or those with mobility issues. When scouting locations, select a wheelchair-accessible spot that can be easily traversed.

Understand that turf can become water-logged and challenging to walk over should it rain the day of the wedding or prior. Plastic or fabric runners may make things easier.

Also, choose a location that isn’t too far off the beaten path.

It should be close enough to a parking lot and not require guests to have to take an extended hike through nature.

• Face away from the sun.

Glares can make it difficult for guests to see the ceremony.

Be sure to arrange seats so that guests do not have to look into the sun. This is best achieved by having the sun behind everyone for the ceremony. It also ensures that you won’t end up with washed-out photos or pictures of everyone squinting.

• Ensure food is properly chilled or heated.

Dining outdoors means keeping food safety in mind. Food that is supposed to be kept cool should remain on ice or be refrigerated until served. Hot foods should remain hot. Food in chafing dishes or served buffet-style also should be protected from insects. Improper handling of food can result in foodborne illnesses. No one wants to remember a wedding for intestinal discomfort.

• Use fresh flowers in potted plants.

Cut flowers tend to wilt prematurely in hot weather. Rather than waste money and beautiful flowers, choose potted plants that will thrive if well-tended. Guests can then take the plants home and continue to cherish the wedding long after it is over.

• Budget for a tent.

It is always better to have a contingency plan. Even if you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding, have a backup plan in place if the weather is uncooperative. A tent with surrounding sidewalls may be sufficient. Otherwise, determine if there is an indoor location that can be kept on standby.

• Mix up the candles.

Intersperse citronella candles with the decorative ones to help keep bugs at bay. You can also consider placing small bottles of insect repellent on the tables. Guests will appreciate the gesture when biting flies or mosquitoes want to join in the fun.

Make sure Mother Nature doesn’t rain on your outdoor wedding. Plan for all the possibilities so that an outdoor ceremony or reception goes as smoothly as possible.

How to successfully negotiate with wedding vendors Metro Services

spend. While you do not have to play the pauper, dress modestly so your appearance doesn’t hurt you at the negotiating table.

The average wedding tends to be one of the most costly ventures in a couple’s life together. Many couples seek ways to cut costs, and negotiating with prospective vendors is one way to do just that.

Too often couples overlook haggling for better prices because they may be intimidated by the process or simply want to plan the most memorable day regardless of cost. Many vendors build some wiggle room into their prices, and the key for cost-conscious couples is to find the right strategy to unlock that lower price.

• Never take the first offer.

A good business person will tell you there always is room for negotiation. Avoid the loaded question of “What can you spend on this?” by the vendor. Instead, let them bring up a price first, and realize that this first quote can almost always be negotiated down. Inform the vendor that you would really like to work with them but he or she needs to lower the price. See if they can offer a different package or provide a discount.

• Explore your options.

Weddings are big business for vendors, and the competition is stiff. Visit a variety of vendors and compare their services and prices prior to making any decisions. This will give you an accurate range of costs and information for future negotiations. Vendors may be willing to match competitors’ prices, so knowing what the photographer down the street charges can provide you with some negotiating leverage.

Before signing, find out if there is room for negotiation with wedding vendor pricing.

• Dress modestly for meetings.

It’s tempting to want to dress to impress, but very often wedding vendors judge potential clients by their appearances. If you walk in with a designer handbag and driving the latest model luxury vehicle, a vendor may get the impression you have extra money to

• Negotiate the big-ticket items first.

Discounts on big-ticket items, such as the reception venue, will save you the most money. For example, you will save more by getting 20 percent off at the catering hall than if you save 20 percent on your wedding gown. Once you free up extra money, you may find you don’t have to negotiate as hard with smaller vendors.

• Walk away if need be.

Always have a Plan B in place. This way if you tell a vendor that their price is too expensive and you have to pass, you really have a fall-back option. Some vendors will sweeten the deal, but others will actually let you walk out the door. And remember, you’re more likely to get a better price by being amenable and well-mannered than making threats or arguing.

• Some deals aren’t actual discounts.

A vendor may be able to work with you by offering additional services in lieu of actually taking money off of the price tag. Extra photo prints, a dessert bar and an extra hour of time in the limousine may seem like great deals, but that’s only the case if you truly need these bonuses. Even if it’s a great deal, you’re still spending more than you had hoped.

Wedding prices can be overwhelming.

However, negotiating for lower prices is always an option for cost-conscious couples.

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Catering by Chef Charlie Catering by Chef Charlie started business in August of 2005 and has since grown to be a contender for the best Weddings and events in the county and beyond. Having executed events from Malibu to Napa, our clients trust in the result! Great food, excellent service and assistance and reassuring along the way to a fully memorable occassion. Chef Tailored Menu’s that represent the wedding couple to a T. Confidence that their guest are going to be thrilled at “not just a meal”. Not once have we not exceeded expectations for our Loved Clients. This is our Joy! More information can be found on Wedding Wire.com and of course for photo’s please check out my facebook page www.facebook.com/charles.d.wayne.

“‘Chef Charlie is a legend’ to quote one of our wedding guests. That is not hyperbole.

The man is truly legendary. His food is akin to an out of body experience.”

“Chef Charlie’s personalized service and amazing talent for great food made our wedding day truly amazing. Any bride and groom would be beyond pleased with his service.”

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Make your engagement photo shoot a success Metro Services Engagement photos vary depending on the couple. Often reserved for save-the-date cards and now commonly used to spruce up wedding websites, engagement photos can range from formal shoots in which couples are dressed to the nines to more laid back shots featuring couples in more everyday attire.

When planning an engagement shoot, couples should give themselves carte blanche with regard to style, as the photoshoot need not follow many of the more accepted rules that the wedding itself will ultimately adhere to. Once couples have settled on a style for their photoshoot, there are additional ways to ensure the session is a success.

• Find a photographer who shares your sensibilities.

Photographers can vary greatly in style, and an engagement photoshoot will be most successful when couples find a photographer whose style matches the theme they are looking for with their photoshoot. You likely would not hire a nature photographer to photograph a basketball game, so don’t hire someone who specializes in posed shots if you want your photos to be more lively and spontaneous. Before you hire anyone, ask for samples of each photographer’s work to be certain you’re getting someone who has experiencing shooting the type of photos you want to take.

• Solicit ideas from the photographer.

Some couples already know exactly where they want their engagement photos to be shot and which poses they want to be arranged. However, many couples have little or no

experience with professional photoshoots, and such couples should solicit ideas from each photographer they are considering hiring. A skilled and/or seasoned photographer should propose several ideas. Be wary of photographers who offer little input, as you may ultimately be dissatisfied with their work once the shoot has come and gone.

• Avoid studio shots.

Many couples prefer their engagement photos be taken somewhere they have a personal connection to, such as the sight of their first date or a park they frequently visit.

Studio photoshoots might provide the best lighting, but couples have no connection to such spaces, and down the road they may regret not taking the photos in someplace that’s a little more meaningful. In addition, a photoshoot outside the studio affords couples and their photographer

more opportunities to experiment and improvise, which can produce a wider array of shots than a studio photoshoot is likely to deliver.

• Don’t forget candid shots.

Candid shots make the photoshoot more fun and loosen couples up a little bit. Many engagement photos will never be seen by anyone other than the photographer and the couple he or she is shooting, so don’t be bashful during candid shots for fear of being embarrassed down the road.

Have fun with the candid shots, and your other photos are likely to come out better as a result.

An engagement photoshoot should be fun and reflect the personalities of the couple. A few simple strategies can ensure couples’ shoots accomplish both of those things.

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10

Wedding

Checklist

This wedding planning checklist covers a 12 month span, but you can adjust the schedule to your own timeline, whether you’re planning two years or one month in advance. Then, simply start at the top of the list below and browse through each group of tasks before tackling them one by one.

12 Months Before ❏

Announce your engagement to family and

6-9 Months Before ❏ Research and choose one or more bridal gift

friends and plan an engagement party

registry

❏ Place an engagement announcement in your local

❏ Order your wedding gown and buy undergar-

newspaper

ments that you will wear with it (bring these to all

❏ Sign up for a wedding website to keep your guests

fittings)

informed about event details, area information, etc.

❏ Order other bridal accessories - shoes, gloves

❏ Work on the budget ❏ Consider purchasing wedding planning soft-

and veil

❏ Begin shopping for bridesmaids dresses

ware to organize everything, or hire a wedding plan-

ding favor accessories - boxes, personalized wedding ribbon, labels, etc.

❏ Purchase any desired ceremony and reception decorations - unity candles, vases, aisle runner, etc.

❏ Start researching wedding cake pictures and local bakeries

❏ Book your honeymoon and verify that you have any necessary travel documents including passports and visas be leaving for your honeymoon the next morning

❏ Choose a wedding date - select a few days in case

❏ Book hotel rooms or arrange other accommoda-

your first choice is booked

tions for out-of-town guests

❏ Choose a location and reserve your ceremony

❏ Finalize your guest list and send out save-the-

and reception site(s)

date cards, if using

❏ Begin a rough guest list and compile current

❏ Print out directions to the ceremony, reception,

addresses

rehearsal dinner and hotel(s) for guests

❏ Decide on who you’d like to have as your attendants, including your maid of honor and best man

❏

❏ Begin shopping for your wedding gown ❏ Attend a local bridal show or two and jot down

ceremony

notes about any vendors you really liked

sicians, a wedding band/DJ, photographer, videog-

❏ Purchase a wedding planning organizer or calen-

rapher, caterer and florist

(fittings, showers, etc.)

❏ Select and purchase wedding favors and wed-

❏ Book a room for your wedding night, if you will

ner to help secure contracts, etc.

dar to keep track of important dates and appointments

stationery store for referrals)

Find an officiant who will perform your

❏ Research local vendors and book ceremony mu-

❏ Compile a list of area information and things to do for out-of-town guests

❏ Reserve transportation for you and your wedding party as well as a bus or trolley for your guests (if necessary)

4-6 Months Before

2-4 Months Before

❏ Select and order your wedding invitations, invi-

❏ Find out what your state’s requirements are for

tation envelopes and thank-you cards

❏ Hire a calligrapher, if desired (check with a local

obtaining a marriage license and get blood tests done, if required

directions and event details

your bar/liquor needs

❏

Choose your hair and makeup stylists and

❏ Meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony

❏ Write out final checks to your wedding vendors

schedule a trial for both; also book appointments to

(each organized in an envelope) and let your wedding

details, wording and wedding vows

have your hair, make-up and nails done on the day

coordinator or one of your attendants to distribute

❏ Select wedding readings ❏ Order your wedding cake ❏ Buy thank-you gifts

of the wedding

at the wedding

❏ Review insurance information with your fiancé

❏ Pick up your wedding gown ❏ Pick up your marriage license ❏ Confirm limo or other transportation reservations ❏ Pack for your honeymoon and confirm travel

for

your

attendants,

flower girl and ring bearer

❏ Shop for a gift for your new spouse-to-be

❏ Keep your wedding web site updated with

1 Week Before

❏ Order tuxedos for the groom and groomsmen ❏ Meet with your caterer to discuss the menu and

and check with employers to see what documents need to be updated once you are legally wed (car, home, medical, etc.)

2 Weeks to 1 Month Before

❏ Select and purchase wedding rings, and have

❏ Create a seating chart for the reception and

them engraved if desired

make table numbers and place cards (or have your calligrapher work on these) ❏ Contact your caterer with a final guest count ❏ Print out a timeline of events for your wedding party and vendors - include contact information and cell phone numbers ❏ Meet with your photographer to finalize your wedding photo list of any must-have photos ❏ Contact your florist to confirm your final flower order (bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, etc.) and go over any decor details or venue logistics for the big day ❏ Finalize your ceremony and reception music and song lists for your wedding band or DJ ❏ Confirm lodging reservations for out-oftown guests ❏ Place a wedding announcement in your local newspaper ❏ Plan a bridal luncheon or dinner with your bridesmaids ❏ Pick up wedding bands and make sure the fit is good ❏ Schedule a final wedding dress fitting ❏ Apply for your marriage license ❏ Write rehearsal dinner toasts

❏ Coordinate and choose a location for the rehearsal dinner

❏ Contact party rental companies for tents, tables, arches, etc. if necessary

❏ Book any other specialty services - ice sculptures, photo booths, etc.

❏ Purchase luggage and other travel necessities and attire for your honeymoon

❏ Order/renew passports if necessary, leaving ample time for them to be sent back to you

❏ Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you’d like to have your teeth whitened or cleaned before the wedding

1-2 Months Before ❏ Mail invitations out to everyone eight weeks prior to the wedding date and send accommodation info to your out-of-town guests

❏ Compile and complete name change documents or purchase a bridal name change kit online

❏ Fill out a change of address form at the post office, if necessary

❏ Have ceremony programs printed ❏ Purchase a guest book, pen and other wedding accessories including toasting glasses, cake knife, ring pillow, etc.

arrangements

❏ Have your post office hold your mail, if necessary, while you are on your honeymoon

❏ Treat yourself to a spa day - you deserve it!

The Day Before ❏ Welcome out-of-town guests as they arrive ❏ Take a yoga class or go for a walk during the day ❏ Schedule a hair appointment for prior to the rehearsal dinner

❏ Attend the rehearsal and enjoy the rehearsal dinner!

The Wedding Day ❏ Wake up early and do some easy exercise, or just go for a peaceful walk outdoors and try to soak up the beauty of the day ;)

❏ Set aside some time before the festivities to share gifts with your bridesmaids or close family members

❏ Eat a healthy breakfast - you’ll need your energy for the big day ahead!

❏ Enjoy it; it’s finally here and everything will be wonderful...Congratulations!!

Courtesy of Little Wedding Guide — littleweddingguide.com

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Hot trends in wedding cuisine Metro Services Once a couple has officially tied the knot, the newly recognized man and wife and all of their guests will retire to a party room where they can mingle, dance and enjoy a good meal.

In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus. But today’s weddings cater to people of various culinary tastes, and couples and their guests can expect more upscale and creative cuisine to be rolled out for wedding receptions. The following are a handful of the more popular trends with regard to wedding cuisine.

Miniature bites Many people say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right. Instead of large meals that fill guests up fast, they can munch on smaller

bites of their favorite dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.

Breakfast for dinner Some couples are circumventing high price tags for their weddings by choosing to hold the festivities at less expensive times of day. Brunch-themed weddings are a big hit with those who would much rather dine on a stack of pancakes than a dish of pasta. Omelet stations, croissants and a bevy of other breakfast table fare can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Dim sum Dim sum allows guests to sample different foods without filling up. Carts of dumplings and other small plates of appe-

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tizers can be wheeled around so everyone can choose what they want and what they want to avoid.

with one another and serve themselves food from community plates located in the center of the tables.

Gourmet comfort food People love familiar comfort foods, but now gourmet comfort foods are shaking up wedding receptions. Mac-and-cheese with gouda and brie or chicken pot pie with a puff-pastry crust are a few offerings that can add glamour to down-home cooking.

Food and beverage pairings Food-forward wedding couples are offering guests mouthwatering appetizers matched with a cocktail. A slider and a craft beer or a dumpling and a shot of saki are examples of this trend.

Food with a show Instead of passed foods or buffet stations, couples are opting to make food an experience for guests. An oyster bar with a chef serving fresh seafood or a dessert master whipping up flambé is a feast for the eyes and mouth.

Interesting buffet stations Keep guests on their toes with various meal stations. A bountiful display of artisanal cheeses, fruits and breads will be a cheese lover’s dream. These stations also can be appetizing focal points around the room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they like best.

Family style Rustic and informal weddings have grown in popularity. Rather than food being brought to the guests or participants lining up in buffet lines, family-style dining allows guests to share conversation and pass the peas at the same time. Larger, rectangular tables allow more guests to sit

Nontraditional ‘fake’ cakes Instead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad that is starting to fizzle, couples are now opting for something new.

Desserts that mimic the look of cake, but aren’t quite that combination of sponge and frosting are trending. Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable and can add a creative spark to the cakecutting ceremony. When offered along with dessert stations, guests can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.

Vegan and gluten-free options Chances are one or more people attending the reception will be on a restricted diet. Rather than relegate these guests to dining on side dishes and patchwork meals, certain couples are building entire offerings around vegan and gluten-free foods.

Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings. Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well.

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Ensure those beautiful shoes are comfortable, as weddings often find brides and bridesmaids spending lots of time on their feet.

Dressing Metro Services Wedding attire is known more for style than comfort. Formal wear, high heels and the various trappings of wedding day wardrobes do not always equate to a day of comfort. While dressing up will never be the same as slipping into a well-worn pair of jeans, there are ways for brides, grooms and guests to be comfortable on the big day.

• Dress for the weather.

It’s tempting to put appearances before comfort. However, wearing clothing without regard for the weather is a surefire way to be uncomfortable all day long. Choose lightweight fabrics for warm weather occasions, and heavier fabrics when attending a winter wedding. Wraps, short jackets, muffs, and decorative scarves allow women to cover up if there’s a chill from the weather or if air conditioning is set too cold.

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• Invest in alterations.

Few people can wear clothing, especially formal attire, right off the rack. The services of a good tailor can prove invaluable.

Shortened hemlines or tightened sleeves can make dresses fit better. Shapewear or support components may be added to the wedding gown so that extra undergarment layers can be avoided. The less you have to fuss with clothing, the more comfortable you will be. Try on your outfit without alterations and point out the areas that are bothersome. Is a bodice slipping down? Is the tuxedo jacket a little too snug? Speak with the tailor about what can be done to remedy the situation.

• Choose the right size.

Formal wear is frequently governed by a different set of sizes from everyday attire.

Formal items are cut smaller and more in line with high fashion couture sizing. Expect to have to go up in size with regard to formal gowns. Instead of concerning yourself with the size on the tag, focus on the fit. Squeezing into something that is too

comfort

small can make you uncomfortable all evening long and inhibit your ability to enjoy yourself on the dance floor. Avoid discomfort (and split seams) by leaving some wiggle room in wedding day ensembles.

• Focus on footwear.

Guests’ eyes likely won’t be on your feet.

Still, many people subject themselves to uncomfortable shoes all in the name of fashion. The fastest way to an unenjoyable time is having to sit out a wedding because your shoes are causing excruciating pain. New shoes sometimes need a period of breaking in, so wear them around the house to determine if they’re comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time.

Women should opt for the lowest heel possible to avoid pressure on the balls and arches of their feet. Floor-length wedding gowns usually cover a bride’s feet, so she has more leeway with finding an attractive, yet comfortable shoe. Outdoor weddings tend to be more casual than indoor affairs, and guests may be perfectly comfortable wearing sandals.

• Brides can go minimalist.

Wedding dresses range from ethereal sheaths to layered princess gowns. The more fabric, tulle, boning and crinoline in the gown, the heavier it will be. Heavy gowns can make it difficult to move around, particularly when dancing or visiting the restroom. Unless you have your heart set on a full Cinderella look, scale back on your gown.

• Eat and choose healthy foods.

Don’t skip meals the day of the wedding.

Choose low-sodium, low-sugar foods that provide sustained energy without sitting heavily in your stomach or causing fluid retention. In addition, be sure to drink plenty of water. Dehydration and hunger pangs can ruin a wedding by causing fatigue, headaches and even fainting.

Comfort may not be a top priority when planning a wedding. But wedding guests and participants alike should dress with some manner of comfort in mind in order to make the day more enjoyable.

How to build a wedding registry Metro Services Many once-popular wedding traditions have fallen by the wayside. But one wedding tradition that has withstood the test of time is the wedding registry. Couples about to tie the knot still build a wedding registry so their guests know what to buy them as wedding gifts. This saves guests the trouble of agonizing over what to buy the couple getting hitched and also ensures that couples won’t receive two or more of the same item.

Building a registry can be fun, as couples can act like kids in a candy store and add items they might otherwise not be able to afford. But there is a method to building a registry that can ensure the process of giving and receiving gifts is comfortable and convenient for everyone involved.

• Choose a national chain. Many stores will allow couples to establish a registry, but it behooves couples to choose a national chain or chains for their registry.

A local boutique store might sell several

items you would love to have, but that store may only be accessible to guests who live nearby, and such stores may be more expensive than larger national chains that can afford to charge less for similar products. Choosing a national chain ensures all of your guests will be able to access and purchase a gift from your registry, and make those purchases without breaking the bank.

• Choose a store with an online presence. When choosing a store for your registry, it also helps to choose a store with an online presence that’s user-friendly.

Ideally, pick an online retailer you have already had positive experiences with. This not only will make it easier for your guests, but also for you should you decide to return items down the road.

• Choose more than one store. You also want to choose more than one store when building a registry. Some guests will prefer to shop in-store rather than online, so you want to give them some options so they

don’t have to drive far and wide to find the lone brick and mortar store for your registry.

• Visit the stores and do your homework. Though some stores allow you to develop a registry entirely online, it still helps for couples to visit the store together and build their registries in the more traditional way. Visiting a store as opposed to browsing the store website allows you to touch and feel products, which can give you a more accurate idea of their quality.

In addition to seeing the products in person, read online reviews of products before putting them on your registry so you can ensure you’re getting quality items.

• Choose items that vary in price. Many couples are sheepish about putting expensive items on their registries. That’s not surprising, as the cost of attending a wedding, especially one that features lots of out-of-town guests, can be substantial.

But some guests, such as the bride and groom’s parents and siblings, may want

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to give a more high-end gift, so don’t be afraid to include items in a range of prices, from the inexpensive to the more costly, on your registry.

• Don’t abandon the registry after your big day. You won’t end up getting everything you include on your registry, but that doesn’t mean you should just forget about those items that never made their way into your home. Many retailers offer couples significant discounts on items from their registries that were never purchased, and those discounts may extend for as long as a year after the big day. Revisit your registry after the wedding to see if you can find great deals on those items you never received, and continue to do so until the registry expires.

Building a registry can be a fun activity for couples about to tie the knot. But there are some guidelines to follow to make the process go smoothly for guests and couples alike.

Sparks-Rogers Engagement David Rogers and Rhianna Sparks, both of Paso Robles, CA, are happy to announce their engagement.

Joined by friends and family, their wedding will be held July 11, 2015 at a small home wedding.

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Call (805) 237-6060 or email community@pasoroblespress.com Call (805) 466-2585 or email news@atascaderonews.com

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Simple solutions to save on your wedding Metro Services

as large cities, are more expensive than others. Couples who come from small towns may benefit from tying the knot close to home, as vendors tend to charge less the further they are from large metropolises. Waterfront venues, regardless of which city they happen to be in, also tend to be more expensive than venues with less impressive surroundings. Couples willing to sacrifice city lights and breathtaking views of the water are likely to find more affordable venues for ceremonies and receptions.

Couples in the midst of planning a wedding often find themselves overwhelmed by the cost of such a meaningful yet expensive undertaking. The average wedding is as expensive as a new car or a down payment on a new house, so it’s no surprise many couples experience sticker shock when they first begin to negotiate with vendors.

But as shocking as the cost of saying “I do” in front of family and friends can be, there are some tried-and-true ways to drastically reduce that cost without making the big day any less special.

Guests Many couples save the most money by reducing the number of people they invite to their wedding. Couples who come from large families may not be able to cut family members from their guest lists without causing a significant stir, so such men and women can look for other areas to trim. Professional colleagues and old acquaintances who you no longer keep in touch with are unlikely to be offended if they don’t make the cut, and removing them from the guest list can save couples substantial amounts of money.

place. Many couples now choose venues that can host both the wedding and the reception, and that can save couples the cost of booking two separate locations and transporting outof-town guests from one location to another. Venues are typically open to negotiation with regard to the price per person for the reception, and few will not have some wiggle room built into their initial quote. If young children and teenagers will be attending the wedding, negotiate lower rates for their meals, as they won’t be drinking alcohol and therefore won’t cost the venue as much as adult guests.

Venue Perhaps no element of wedding planning is more open to negotiation than the venue where the reception will take

Location Where a couple decides to tie the knot will have a significant impact on their bottom line. Certain locales, such

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Timing The timing of a wedding also affects a couple’s bottom line.

Couples hoping to get married when wedding season hits its peaks, which is generally considered the months of May and June and then also late-September into October, can expect to pay substantially more than couples willing to get married at other times of the year. Couples also can save money by choosing to get married on Friday or Sunday nights or Saturday afternoon, when many venues charge considerably less per person than they do on Saturday night, which remains the most popular night of the week to get married.

The cost of a wedding is considerable, but couples can cut those costs in several ways if they’re willing to be flexible and negotiate with vendors.

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Cake-cutting

etiquette & guidelines Metro Services The presentation of the wedding cake marks the culmination of the day’s festivities and a final symbol of a happy couple’s new partnership. Many people eagerly await the cake as much as they may anticipate catching a glimpse of the bride in her beautiful gown.

While the cake in all its finery can be a beautiful sight to behold, a cake can only last so long before its fate as a delicious dessert is sealed.

As is the case with many wedding traditions, there is some established etiquette with regard to cutting and serving wedding cake. If you plan on putting your cake on display, be sure it is made with a frosting and filling that can endure room temperature.

Certain creams may sour if not refrigerated, and you do not want anyone becoming ill. If you have your heart set on perishable fillings, keep the cake refrigerated and then have the big reveal right before it is cut.

The cake cutting usually comes near the end of the wedding reception. Schedule the cutting so that older guests or young children can leave without feeling as if they would be offending anyone. The emcee of the evening typically announces the cake cutting, and the band may play a quirky tune or revisit the wedding song while the first slice is being cut.

A bride should hold the cake knife with her right hand, while the groom places his right hand over hers before they proceed to slice down together. If the cake has a foam or cardboard support, be careful not to cut through it. Use a cake server to grab the first piece.

Traditionally the newly betrothed will feed each

The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely. Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour. Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.

other a bite of the cake to symbolize their first meal as a couple. Couples can feed each other a small amount, taking care not to spill any. Many couples no longer embrace the once-popular tradition of smashing cake in each other’s faces, but whether or not couples follow this tradition is up to them.

Some couples like to serve their parents a piece of cake. Traditionally the bride should serve the groom’s parents and the groom the bride’s parents.

If there is a groom’s cake, guests may prefer a slice of both cakes. Guests may also want to take home a slice of the groom’s cake. Tradition states that a piece of the groom’s cake should be presented to an unmarried woman attending the wedding. The woman is not expected to eat the cake, but rather to put it under her pillow. Superstition held that this tradition would help an unmarried woman find a husband. Make arrangements for proper packaging of the groom’s cake, so guests can take home a slice if they so desire.

The waitstaff typically handles the slicing of the cake. The uppermost tier is reserved for the couple to save, and the remainder of the cake will be served.

Recognize that not all guests like cake, but it’s better to err on the side of caution and have a cake that will feed all of the guests. You also may want to offer a dessert bar for guests who prefer another type of sweet treat. However, this is a luxury, not a necessity.

The cake-cutting ritual at weddings has withstood the test of time, and many couples still prefer to present the cake with fanfare and excitement.

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After party planning pointers Metro Services Nowadays, many wedding guests are not ready to call it a night after the deejay plays the last dance at the reception. After parties have grown increasingly popular, but planning an after party is not necessarily as simple as pointing guests to a nearby watering hole.

After parties can be anything a couple wants them to be. They can be a bunch of friends toasting marshmallows over a fire pit or a night of dancing at a club. But it pays for couples to heed a few after party pointers.

• Choose a place within walking distance or close by to the reception hall or hotel.

Guests have likely been indulging in alcohol during the wedding, and safety should always be a priority. If only a few people are going out, you may be able to pile into a cab, but if your affair will be attended by more than a handful of guests, choose a venue close by so it’s easy for guests to get there and get home.

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• Limit the food and drink choices.

Ask servers to bring a few pitchers of beer or sangria and finger foods. This will help avoid disagreements over trying to tally up and split the bill afterward.

• Go comfortably.

If you’re ready to get out of wedding finery, by all means change into something more comfortable. You probably will enjoy yourself more at the after party if you can mingle in more comfortable attire.

• Take advantage of hotel services.

Many hotels have conference rooms or attached bars and restaurants that make perfect gathering places for an after party.

Make arrangements with the hotel concierge or the front desk in advance.

• Delegate responsibilities.

A busy bride and groom may not have the time or the inclination to plan another party. If guests want to continue celebrating, put the task in the hands of a third party or volunteer.

• Leave whenever you want.

Partygoers will eventually need some sleep.

Feel free to leave the after party whenever you want. Usually once a few people begin to disperse, the rest of the group will call it a night.

After parties are growing in popularity.

Those planning on celebrating into the early hours of the morning can start thinking creatively.

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tips for a great honeymoon Metro Services A couple’s honeymoon is their first real chance to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. Couples who want to make sure their first getaway as husband and wife goes off without a hitch might want to heed the following advice.

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Start saving early. Honeymoons are expensive, so to afford the vacation of your dreams it’s wise to begin saving for the honeymoon as early as possible. It may be well worth it to compromise and make sacrifices in other areas to ensure you have enough funds for your dream honeymoon getaway. Do not expect cash gifts at your wedding to pay for your trip. If you do, you may be sorely disappointed when the time comes to take off.

Read online reviews. Online reviews can paint an accurate picture of a potential honeymoon destination. Look at vacationer-supplied photographs to see how the accommodations match up to the resort’s own marketing materials. You don’t want too many surprises, such as service fees, dirty rooms or a lack of beach amenities, to ruin your trip.

Plan at least one exciting outing.

While on your honeymoon, be sure to go on at least one adventure. Try an activity you have never done before, such as snorkeling, traveling a zip line or swimming with stingrays.

Pack early. After a long wedding day and reception spent dancing into the wee hours of the morning, you probably do not want to spend time packing. Pack your suitcases and travel essentials in advance of your wedding day so you have more time to sleep in before you depart for the airport. Also, remember not to over-pack. You want to have room for the souvenirs you purchase along the way.

Enjoy your surroundings. Put down the smartphone or tablet enough to truly enjoy your surroundings. A honeymoon is an opportunity to relax, and that may not be possible if you’re tied to your devices. Friends at home can wait for your status updates and wedding pictures.

Splurge on something expensive.

Whether it’s an ultra-fancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge.

Leave your itinerary open. After scores of wedding appointments and watching the clock, it’s nice to fly by the seat of your pants.

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Lush Limousine Service 805-226-5558 lushlimo.com