2
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
A GUIDE TO
Weddings and more
I
f you are planning a wedding, anniversary, family reunion or other special event, be sure to attend the Paso Robles Main Street Association’s Wedding and Special Events Expo on Sunday, March 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the elegant Paso Robles Inn Ballroom. Free to the public, the fair will provide you with personal attention from a large number of exhibitors at one time and place — formal wear boutiques, florists, photographers, caterers, limousine services, reception sites, and more — all under one roof! You will have the opportunity to ask vendors questions about every detail of your special event, gathering information while having fun. After the gala begins at 11:00 a.m., door prizes and gift certificates will be given away throughout the afternoon. The Paso Robles Inn Ballroom is located at 1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles. For more information, contact the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association at (805) 238-4103 or e-mail us at mainstreet@tcsn.net.
This publication was produced by the Paso Robles Press in support of the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association's Annual Gala Event.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 3
A GUIDE TO
Located at the Paso Robles Inn Ballroom 1103 Spring St Paso Robles, CA 93446
Central Coast Shutter Booth
Costco Wholesale Quixotic Event Floral
Sallyface Cakepops Marketing Solutions/San Luis Bay Inn
Two Little Bird’s Bakery J&J Cellars CJN Event Planning
DJ Johnny Walker
R Photo And Designs
Sunday, March 4, 2012 from 11am to 3 pm
Paso Weddings
AND SPECIAL EVENTS EXPO
Cold Stone Creamery
g
Sit N Grin
din d e W
Fleur Flowers
2012
A Heart’s Desire
Uptown Salon
Paso Robles Downtown Main Street Association (805) 238-4103 Presents
American Laser
Sculpterra Winery
State Farm Ins
It’s a Wrap & More Catering
Jerry Craig DJ
Lavender Blue Events
and more
Central Coast Wedding Professionals
Pink Diamond Artistry
John Patrick Images
Flowers by Kim
Weddings
Distinctive Glassware
FREE ADMISSION! N2 Events
White Horse Carriage
CHECK-IN Main Street
Paso Robles Inn
BAR
Taylor Rental
ENTRANCE Emily’s House
4
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
Ceremonies Your Way
Photography by Jimmy de & Special Effects
STAIRCASE
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
VENDORS Paso Robles Inn & Ballroom 805-238-2660 1103 Spring St. Paso Robles CA 93446 ericar@pasoroblesinn.com
Taylor Rental / Party Plus 805-238-2030 1545 Riverside Ave. Paso Robles CA 93446 lukepartyplus@yahoo.com
White Horse Carriage Co. 805-296-2289 4626 Ross Dr. Paso Robles CA 93446 whitehorse@email.com
American Laser Skincare 246-426-8250 24555 Hallwood Ct. Farmington Hills MI 48335 ehofmann@americanlaser.com
It’s A Wrap and More Catering 805-610-4875 208 Silver Oak Dr. Paso Robles CA 93446 itsawrapinpaso@gmail.com
Paso Weddings 805-603-2377 1227 Park St. #B Paso Robles CA 93446 roxan@pasoweddings.com
Marketing Solutions/ San Luis Bay Inn 714-713-7618 764 Asilo Arroyo Grande CA 93420 marketing_solutions@ymail.com
Fleur - Very Pretty Flowers 805-227-0336 135 18th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 fleur-flowers@hotmail.com
Flowers By Kim 674-5243 2555 Adobe Rd. Paso Robles CA 93446 kim@flowersbykim.com A Heart’s Desires Bridal 805-239-5683 811 13th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 ahdbridalemail@yahoo.com Sculpterra Winery 805-226-8881 5015 Linne Rd. Paso Robles CA 93446 karennoel@sculpterra.com J & J Cellars 805-467-2891 2850 Ranchita Cyn Rd San Miguel CA 93451 krystle.vondollen@jjcellars.com Pink Diamond Artistry 805-202-9176 915 W. Morrison #68 Santa Maria CA 93458 pinkdiamondartistry@gmail.com Costco Wholesale 805-541-7047 1540 Froom Ranch Way San Luis Obispo CA 93405 w741mk01@costco.com N2 Events 805-296-9276 6578 North Star Ln. Paso Robles CA 93446 flowerpowerbymelis@yahoo.com
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
State Farm Insurance 805-238-6200 526 Spring St. Paso Robles CA 93446 chris@mypasoagent.com
Sallyface Cakepops 805-540-4777 Oceano CA 93445 sallyfacecakepops@gmail.com
Two Little Birds Bakery 221-5680 822 13th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 twolittlebirdsbakery@gmail.com
Lavender Blue Events 805-610-8817 879 Sycamore Cyn Rd Paso Robles CA 93446 info@lavenderblueevents.com
Central Coast Shutter Booth of CA 805-786-4648 508 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo CA 93401 jimQ@shutterbooth.com
Uptown Salon 805-237-2200 705 Pine St. Paso Robles CA 93446 uptownhair@sbcglobal.net
Distinctive Glassware 805-712-7442 1550 Via Arroyo Paso Robles CA 93446 paula@distinctiveglassware.net
Jerry Craig DJ & Karaoke & Dance 805-712-1049 1220 Bennet Way #801 Templeton CA 93465 djjerrycraig@djjerrycraig.com
Photography by Jimmy de & Special Effects 805-238-5199 618 12th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 jimmyde@tcsn.net
Cold Stone Creamery 805-226-9330 832 11th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 talen.carole@gmail.com
Emily’s House 661-810-2022 530 9th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 vickijo2@earthlink.net
Ceremonies Your Way 805-238-6312 420 15th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 geocollins@tcsn.net
John Patrick Images 805-440-9647 615A S. Main St. Templeton CA 93465 pj@johnpatrickimages.com
R Photo And Designs 805-769-5250 3855 La Luz Rd. Atascadero CA 93422 romi_ramirez2@yahoo.com DJ Johnny Walker 805-610-6943 237 17th St. Paso Robles CA 93446 johnwalker@kw.com Central Coast Wedding Professionals 805-801-3535 1241 Johnson Ave. #152 San Luis Obispo CA 93401 mike@rocnrev.com Quixotic Event Floral Design 805-434-8550 250 Granite Rd. Templeton CA 93465 Quixotic_flowers@yahoo.com
CJN Event Planning 805-462-9106 4125 Rosita Ave. Atascadero CA 93422 jamie@cjneventplanning.com Sit N Grin 888-748-4746 3960 S. Higuera St. #198 San Luis Obispo CA 93401 info@sitngrin.com
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 5
The PerfectWedding Gown Shopping tips for the perfect ensemble
T
here's no doubt about it—things get personal when shopping for a wedding dress. Unlike any other dress you'll purchase, your wedding dress is part and parcel of a major commitment, and you'll want to remember it fondly for the rest of your life. As you enter the wonderful world of wedding dress shopping, don't worry if you're clueless about crinolines or corsets. These insider tips will help make your wedding dress search a celebration in itself.
Do your homework — Before hitting the wedding dress stores, be an educated consumer. Studying wedding dresses in bridal magazines is the best way to get started. Many designers and salons also have web sites where you can view wedding dresses. The point of this research is not to induce hyperventilation, but to help you get a general idea of what wedding dress you want. Make notes about silhouettes, fabrics and prices, then bring them, as well as 6
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
magazines with pages you've flagged, to your salon appointments. One caveat: Try not to get too attached to a wedding dress that looks great on paper. There's always the chance that it won't wow you in person. If that's the case, your consultant can direct you to similar, but more flattering, wedding dresses. Just make sure you try on the major wedding dress silhouettes: A-line, ball gown, basque waist, and Empire waist. Start searching early — Any consultant worth her salt will ask you for the date, time and location of your wedding. These logistics will dictate the type of wedding dress that's most appropriate. Experts agree that you should start looking for your wedding dress at least nine months before the big day. It will take at least three months for your wedding dress to arrive from the manufacturer and from one to three fittings to get it right.
Enter at your own risk — Just as you wouldn't show up at your doctor's office unannounced, don't go to your bridal salon without an appointment. This allows the consultant to spend more time with you and help you efficiently. Some salons do take walk-ins, but you could be sitting around for hours before seeing a consultant, whose job is to listen to your ideas, then offer a few of her own. She will also educate you on wedding dress silhouettes, fabrics and fit. If possible, avoid scheduling a Saturday visit, when stores are busiest. Any other day will mean additional time and assistance in a relaxed setting. Be real about money — Honesty is the best policy when it's time to talk money. If you're on a strict budget, tell your consultant up front — they can help you find a great wedding dress in your price range. You're only setting yourself up for heartache if you try on wedding dresses
that you can't afford. Everything after that will be like comparing a VW to a RollsRoyce. Sometimes it's okay to spend a little more than you planned if you're willing to cut costs in another area. Ideally, you're only going to do this once. So you probably won't regret spending a little extra.
Look the part — Even the prettiest wedding dress loses some of its appeal if the wearer has dirty hair. Shopping for a wedding dress can be an event in itself, so why not primp a little? Put on some makeup and style your hair, and you'll get a sneak preview of how you'll look on the day. Unless you intend to wed barefoot, bring a pair of shoes with a heel that's similar to what you plan to wear for your ceremony (some salons have samples you can use).
Go under cover — It's almost a certainty that in between try-ons you'll be standing
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
around in your underwear. To avoid embarrassing yourself – or your salesperson – make sure you're wearing lingerie that looks good. Avoid anything with holes, bleach stains, or loose elastic. If nothing in your dresser drawer fits the bill, purchase a simple strapless bra for your appointments. It's your best bet since many wedding dress silhouettes require that you wear either a strapless or backless foundation. If you forget to bring one along, most salons will provide you with a suitable style as well as a slip or crinoline. Once you've chosen a wedding dress, make sure to bring the bra that you are going to wear on your wedding day (or one that's a similar style) to each fitting. The type of foundation you wear affects how your wedding dress is altered. Don't be a crowd pleaser — Here's a sanity saver: bring along only the people at the very top of your A-list. That means mom (or another close relative) and a supportive friend with great taste. Most salon consultants agree that two people is plenty. Three or more is definitely a crowd, especially when they start offering conflicting opinions. That's the kind of drama you don't need while trying to make a decision. With entourage in tow, be sure to visit at least three salons. Is it possible to fall in love with the first wedding dress you try on? Sure. But that doesn't mean you can't confirm it's "the one" by looking in more than one place.
Know what to look for — Note the way wedding dresses curve over the bust and waist, and whether the neckline and hem lie correctly. You can get an idea of how it will fit even if you try a sample that's not your size (don't freak out if you find your size-10 body needs a size-14 wedding dress.) Most wedding dresses run small because they follow the smaller sizing that was set up in the 1940s. If you start adding sleeves to a strapless wedding dress or narrowing a ball gown's skirt, then you haven't found what you're looking for. Even simple alterations like turning an on-theshoulder neckline into an off-the-shoulder one can start at well over a $100. Add that to the cost of the basic alterations that most brides need (adjusting side seams, shoulders, length, and bustle loops), and you could end up spending an extra $350.
Know when to call it a day — If every wedding dress is starting to look the same, you're suffering from bridal burnout. Shopping in moderation—no more than two stores a day. How will you know when
you've hit the jackpot? Experts agree: You'll shed at least one tear of joy—or break into your biggest grin since he popped the question.
Read the small print — Once you're ready to buy your wedding dress, make sure you know the specific terms of sale. They're usually spelled out on your receipt and include the amount of your nonrefundable deposit (50 percent of the full price), when the balance is due (usually when the wedding dress arrives— don't pay before inspecting your merchandise), and the salon's policies regarding alterations, exchanges, and special orders. Each store operates differently, but most consider the receipt a binding contract.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 7
The Flowers Have It Choosing the right florist and flowers
C
hoosing a wedding florist is a relatively easy task to handle, and it's a good thing too! Flowers are an integral part of a wedding. A bride without a bouquet is like peanut butter without jelly. Flowers also add beauty to the ceremony and reception areas. There are florists and floral designers everywhere and most of them specialize in wedding flowers. With so many wedding florists out there, how do you know which one has your best interests at heart? Read on for some tips on choosing a wedding florist. Hopefully your church and reception location aren’t far apart from each other. This will come in handy when choosing a florist. Your best bet is to go with one that is local to the wedding and reception areas to cut down on costly delivery fees. The quicker your flowers reach their destination the fresher they will be. First Things First — Before choosing a wedding florist, several decisions should have been made. You should already know the type of wedding and reception you have planned, and their locations should already be booked. For instance, if you are having a beach wedding, the bride will want a small bouquet to go with her more informal beach wedding dress.
8
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
You should also know what colors table linens will be used at the reception and what color dresses the bridal party will be wearing. This information is important when comparison shopping since you want to choose flowers to match the décor. It’s probably a good idea to first check with your banquet manager to see if flowers for the reception are included in your catering package. If they are, and this is acceptable to you, you’ll only need to discuss ceremonial flowers and bouquets. A florist who has this information can give you a more accurate quote.
What You’ll Need — The sizes and shapes will vary, but you will want to find packages that include the following: • Brides bouquet • Bridesmaid’s bouquets • Corsages for moms, grandmothers and other special women • Boutonnieres for the groom, groomsmen and fathers of the bride and groom • Floral arrangements for the church • Centerpieces for the reception These are the basics. A more elaborate wedding will call for more elaborate flowers. For instance, will you need a flower girl basket? Will a small bridal bouquet for “tossing” be required? If you’re
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
getting married under a gazebo, trellis or canopy, will these be adorned with flowers? Extras such as these are sure to add to the cost. Comparison Shop — Like all other aspects of your wedding, you’ll want to comparison shop to get the best value for your money. Visit with different wedding florists and describe to them what you’d like for your wedding. They’ll probably have several books for you to look through to choose the flowers and centerpieces that compliment your wedding and reception. Keep in mind that flowers are seasonal. To save money, go with blooms that are in season. If they’re out of season, make sure they won’t cost much money to bring in from other parts of the country. Exotic flowers are sure to be more expensive. In your quest for the perfect flowers for your wedding, don’t discount the neighborhood florist. He might not adver-
tise as a wedding florist, but he probably knows what he’s doing. Even better, he probably charges less than the florist at the wedding super center. The service is sure to be more personalized and he’ll have more time to sit with you and find the flowers that suit your needs and meet your expectations. Putting it All Together — Once you’ve visited several shops, browsed through books and magazines, and received quotes, it’s time for you to choose a wedding florist. Do you want to go with the wedding florist who charges the lowest fee or the florist with the prettiest floral arrangements? Do you want personalized service, or a limited package provided by the wedding super center or catering hall? Whatever you do, don’t settle for the cheapest price if the package doesn’t feel right to you. It is, after all, the most important day of your life.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 9
Wedding Planning Countdown A Step-by-Step Guide to Keep You on Track
Congratulations! timetostartplanning… You’re in love, you’ve set a wedding date, and soon you will be married. Between the romance and the ritual, however, there’s some work to be done. A wedding celebration can be as simple or as elaborate as you and your groom choose to make it. Newly engaged couples who resist plunging pell-mell into the planning process may be the most successful planners of all. First, take a moment to dream. Summon up a clear image of the wedding you and your groom want – the image, feel and atmosphere – before you take a single step. Before rushing out to book a hall, order hors d’oeuvres and ice down the champagne, seek clarity. Who are you and your fiancé? Who, and what, is important to you? Take the time to define your idea of an ideal wedding. This will pay off later, helping with the decisionmaking for your ceremony and reception. When you’ve decided on the overall tone for your special day, it’s time to get down to business. Couples who tackle wedding planning pragmatically, as if it were a work-related project, tend to survive the process with greater ease. Think of yourself as project managers. Establish an overall framework for completing the work, set specific intermediate deadlines, schedules and goals and divide the tasks. Taken one small job at a time, the detail-laden job becomes less overwhelming. Here is our suggested timetable for the steps you should take in the months, weeks and days leading up to your wedding. Start here to envision and plan the wedding of your dreams.
10
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
6-9months
6months
beforeyourwedding
beforeyourwedding • Choose your caterer, and remember to
• Choose your wedding date. If you plan to be married in a church, temple or mosque or in a religious service at home, clear the date and time with your clergy. • Announce your engagement in local newspapers. • Set your budget. Take time for a heartto-heart talk with your fiancé about the budget and style of your wedding, reception and wedding-related parties, and who pays for what. • Enlist help. Consider hiring a bridal consultant. If your budget won’t stretch that far, ask relatives and close friends to assist you in specific tasks – selecting a dress, interviewing caterers, locating a reception site – especially in areas where you feel you need support. • Compose your guest list. Let out-oftown guests know your wedding is in the works so they can make travel plans. • Reserve your reception site. • Choose your wedding attendants. • Select your wedding gown, shoes and accessories. • Decide on bridesmaids’ dresses. • Determine the theme or mood you’d like to establish with the food, table settings, flowers and entertainment at your reception. • Interview caterers, musicians, florists, photographers, videographers and bakers. Get written estimates of their costs. Keep track of your discussions and their bids in a notebook or with wedding-planning software.
get a written contract. • Choose your musician(s). • Book your photographer and/or videographer. • Select your baker and order the cake. • Choose your florist. • Decide on your color scheme. • Shop for wedding rings with your fiancé. • Decide on your honeymoon destination. Work with a travel agent to book your travel and accommodations. • Select your wedding invitations, and don’t forget to purchase personal stationery for the thank-you notes you’ll need to write.
4months beforeyourwedding • Register for gifts at one or more bridalgift registries. • Help both mothers coordinate & shop for wedding-day attire. • Select music for your ceremony and reception. • Choose readings for your wedding and write your wedding vows. • Plan a rehearsal dinner for members of your wedding party, your family and out-of-town guests. Reserve the location. • Arrange hotel accommodations for members of the wedding party who live out of town. Reserve a block of rooms for other out-of-town guests, and let them know the rooms are available. Remember to ask for any group discounts or special packages. • Reserve your wedding-day transportation and any other wedding-day rental
needs. • Make appointments for gown fittings. • Check the requirements for a marriage license. • Make sure contracts and arrangements are complete with all of your service providers.
3months
beforeyourwedding • Carefully prepare directions, including simply drawn maps, if necessary, to help guide guests to the wedding and reception, and to hotels. For guests who will travel a long distance to your wedding, consider assembling an information package on fun things to do and see in your area. • Begin addressing invitations and announcements. Select a special stamp at the post office. Invitations should go in the mail six to eight weeks before your big day. • Give the caterer or other food suppliers a close idea of the number of guests you expect. • Make sure all reservations are in place for honeymoon travel. • Check with bridesmaids to make sure they have their gowns and are getting them adjusted. • Shop for gifts for your bridesmaids. Offer to help your fiancé select gifts for his attendants. • Select your “going away” outfit and special items for your trousseau. • Make a date with your photographer for any formal portraits you desire. • Make an appointment to have your hair done just before your portrait session and again the day or so before your wedding. Consider including your bridesmaids in a “day of beauty” before your wedding, with manicures, hair styling, massages and makeup sessions.
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
2months
beforeyourwedding • Mail out your wedding invitations and announcements. • Have wedding portraits taken. • Send bridal portrait and wedding announcement to newspapers for publication. • Finalize the music that will be played during your wedding ceremony. • Meet with musicians who will provide entertainment during your reception and orchestrate precisely what you want and when you want it played. • Don’t be shy to voice your preferences, down to the volume, favorite songs you’d like to hear or even songs you don’t want played. • Plan your rehearsal dinner and consider hosting a brunch or fun activity for outof-town guests to enjoy on the day following your wedding. • Purchase special accessories for your wedding-day attire. • Plan a luncheon for your bridesmaids. • Make appointments for a hair, makeup and manicure. • Finalize honeymoon plans. If you’re traveling overseas, check again that your passports are current and that you have any necessary visas. • Gather necessary birth or baptismal certificates you may need for your wedding license.
1month
beforeyourwedding • Get your wedding license. • Have a final fitting of your gown and make sure your attendants have theirs. • Check that your menu selections and service plans are locked in place with the caterer. • Purchase a special book to keep track of wedding gifts as they arrive. • Keep writing those thank-you notes on a daily basis! • If you are planning on a formal dinner for your reception, it’s time to draw up
a seating plan and make up place cards. • Check with your florist to confirm dates and times of flower deliveries. • Review your wedding-day transportation plans and make sure drivers are clear about addresses, times and number of passengers. • Make name or address changes official on documents, including driver’s license, Social Security forms and financial accounts. Fill out change-ofaddress forms at the post office. • Meet with your photographer to specify the formal shots you want taken of the bridal party, as well as specific, candid shots you’d like taken during the reception. • Review the video plans with your videographer.
• Inform your caterer of the final number of guests. Confirm that out-of-town guests are set with hotel accommodations, transportation and wedding-day directions.
Your Wedding Day
Thedaybefore
• Allow plenty of time for dressing, makeup and hair styling. • If you plan on photography before the ceremony, allow ample time so you’re not rushed. • Relax, and remember: This is your special day, the result of all your careful planning. Now it’s time to enjoy your wedding day. Take a deep breath. Glitches will happen, refuse to let them get to you. Savor every moment of this sacred day - it goes by fast. Smile, and let your joy and happiness shine through. Best wishes!
before yourwedding
• Take the time to relax and enjoy a massage, manicure and pedicure. • Traditionally, this is the day for your rehearsal ceremony and rehearsal dinner. Have fun! • Turn in early for a good night’s sleep.
relaxandenjoy!
2weeks
before yourwedding
Custom Framing
• Keep writing those thank-you notes for wedding gifts! • Pick up your wedding rings. Make sure any special engraving appears precisely as you wished. • Begin packing for your honeymoon.
Art Gallery & Gifts Custom & Stock Frames
1week
Shadow Boxes & Prints
before yourwedding • Make final checks with all your vendors: officiant, musicians, florist, photographer, videographer, limousine or other transportation provider, caterers and baker. • Ask a friend or family member to arrange for wedding gifts that may be brought to your reception to be delivered to your home or another safe spot. • Wrap gifts for bridal attendants and have them ready for the rehearsal dinner. • Purchase travelers’ checks and reconfirm honeymoon travel and hotel plans. • See that checks are written and ready to be handed out to vendors at the agreed-upon time.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
For Framing All Your Special Keepsakes From Your Special Day!
Art Works Works
The
(805) 238-2977 1336-A Railroad Street, Downtown Paso Robles
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 11
Good Eats Find a caterer that will cater to your food fancy
T
he largest expense of your entire wedding budget will be the reception–your choice of a caterer is of utmost importance in keeping this part under control and your guests happy. First you need to decide on a site for your reception, whether it is a reception center, a hotel or wedding hall, your home or an outdoor venue, the choice should reflect what image you want to project and what is affordable.
12
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
Next, You'll want to research local caterers through referrals from friends, relatives, local advertising and internet searches. Some venues may give you a choice of caterers from an approved list. If the location for your reception is “all-inclusive”, that is everything such as hall rental, catering, decorating, etc. is included, you will need to work with the staff of your venue to work out specific details of your special day.
If you are holding your reception in a hall, private residence or where food is not provided, you need to contact caterers in your area who specialize in on-site catering. When you first contact your prospects, have the following information ready: • Date of your Wedding • Reception Site • Approximate number of guests • Service preferences, such as Buffet, Sit Down, Family Style, etc. After verifying that your wedding date is open in the caterer's schedule, try to collect as much initial information from the caterer that you can on this first call. Then request any written information they might be able to send you. Ask if the caterer has a website available, and if their menus are on it. Some caterers will offer a “tasting” meeting for you to sample some of their food. If they do, jump at it. Before you make your first call to a caterer, have the following list of questions in front of you. Ask the same questions of each caterer you call so that you can make an informed decision. Write their answers down so you don't forget what each one tells you. • Does the caterer have access/permission to cater at your reception site? • Does the caterer assist in setting up tables? • Does the caterer cover guest tables, linen skirts, head table, gift table, cake table, etc.? • What decorating does caterer provide? • What types of menus are available? Can menu choices vary? • Are hors d' oeuvres available? • Can “special diet” requirements be met?
• What types of dinnerware, tableware and glassware are available? • Are servers professionally attired? • Are there extra charges for china and linen service? • If the wedding party is served at the head table, is there an extra charge? • Will the wedding cake be served and/or boxed? Is there an extra charge? • Is bar service provided? Bartenders? Cups and supplies? • Is extra food packaged for take home? • Is hall clean up included? • Do they offer a contract with all promised items listed? • Is there a deposit required to hold the wedding date? • When is full payment required? • How soon in advance does caterer need menu and final count of guests? After you have all of these questions answered, you should be able to make an informed decision as to which caterer will fill your needs. Do not to choose your caterer based solely on price per person, but consider what is included in the per person price before making your final decision. You do not want to be “sadly” surprised on your wedding day when your expectations of exceptional service and quality are not met. While the food IS a major part of why you hire a caterer, the presentation of that food is part of their image and yours. Make sure the caterer you are thinking about hiring is one who will work WITH you and not tell you what you want. As with every aspect of planning a wedding, this should be team-work to accomplish the end result– your perfect wedding day!
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
Maid of Honor
SelectingYour Sparkle
The role of Maid of Honor
The right jeweler for the job
Y
T
he role of the maid of honor can turn into a dress rehearsal for the day when it is your turn to be the bride. The bride's maid of honor typically has a very close personal relationship with the bride and often serves as confidant and advisor on a variety of issues. Preparations can include selecting wedding colors; choosing the bridesmaid dresses, the caterer and flowers; identifying a location for the wedding and the reception; and hosting a bridal shower. This position of honor can be loaded with a lot of work and responsibility as well as a lot of fun. Typical maid-of-honor duties often include shopping with the bride, arranging transportation for the bridal party, communicating plans and responsibilities to the bridal party, selecting and sending out wedding invitations, ensuring the bridal party gets to rehearsals on time, helping during the rehearsal dinner and other events and making sure the reception runs smoothly. "Deciding to marry is a big step and preparing for a wedding is an extremely stressful process," says Dr. Douglas Whiteside, director of the Argosy University Seattle Psychology Center. "The bride needs reliable and trusted people around her to help make decisions and transact business. Therefore, the role of the maid of honor is critical in helping the bride cope with the demands of planning a wedding and preparing for a new life." She also has official duties such as signing the marriage license along with the best man and participating in the first
dance with the best man, holding the groom's ring during the ceremony, holding the bride's bouquet during the ceremony and toasting the newlyweds during the reception. Then there are the tender tasks of helping to prepare the bride just before her grand march down the aisle by fixing her hair, adjusting the veil and wiping tears to avoid smudging makeup, along with the tedious task of helping to keep track of the wedding gifts and money cards. Lest we forget, the toughest task for the maid of honor is the unofficial duty of keeping the bride calm, being a sounding board for the bride and offering thoughtful opinions when major decisions are being made. There is also the responsibility of keeping the bride calm the day of the wedding when nerves and anxiety will be at their peak. Screaming at the caterer, banquet hall attendant or church clerk over a forgotten detail can raise the stress level of the bride and those around her prior to the wedding. This can take the mood of this festive occasion in a wrong direction. Assisting the bride through this delicate and stressful process also means looking out for her emotional well-being. The maid of honor often tells jokes to make the bride laugh and help reduce her stress level, and makes sure the bride eats healthy meals to keep her nourished and balanced. On top of all that, the best maid of honor must be a good listener in order to provide the necessary emotional support the bride needs leading up to and the day of the wedding, as she prepares for the start of her new life.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
our wedding ring is meant to last forever. Finding the right design for your “forever” wedding ring can be difficult enough, but you should also be aware of the the ring’s value. Take the time to find the right jeweler AND the right ring. Choose a store where the owner is a jeweler who works in the store on a regular basis and knows the clientele and the business. Your chosen store should be able to design and create fine jewelry. Choosing a jeweler can be an overwhelming experience because most consumers don’t know all the intricacies of gemstones and precious metals. It is important to find someone who will work with you as well as share their knowledge. Equally critical is reputation. Jewelers should be competent and have the expertise to help you with all of your jewelry needs, no matter how important or how much you can afford to spend. Knowledge is crucial to any jeweler – customer relationship. You want the jeweler to be able to explain the difference between the qualities of various diamonds, and show you how to get the most value and quality for your money. Buying Gemstones Throughout history gemstones have been sought after and treasured. Archeological digs have uncovered gemstones dating back thousands of years. Traditionally, they are gifts that symbolize love. Most of the time, the price of a gemstone is determined by cut, size and quality – which include color, clarity, treatments – and type. A few questions to ask about quality: • Is the stone natural or synthetic? • Has it been treated?
• Is the color even throughout the stone? • Does the stone have any noticeable chips, scratches or inclusions? • Is the color vivid?
Keys to a Fine Jeweler If you are like the average American, you may spend thousands of dollars on jewelry over your lifetime, so keep this in mind when you are selecting a jeweler for your wedding ring. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and someone who is willing to work with you when you have questions about jewelry or repairs is very important. Sometimes it’s best if you find a store where the owner is the jeweler. Usually this would be someone who works in the store regularly and knows the clientele and the business. It’s also a good idea to select a shop that is able to create and design fine jewelry. A knowledgeable staff is also vital. You should be able to ask questions about what’s currently on the market and receive information about the products and services. All work should be performed on the premises. Free gift wrapping, superb customer service, in-town delivery and an expert staff should also be part of your jeweler’s everyday operation. Ask if your jeweler is a member of state and national trade associations like Jewelers of America, California Jewelers Association, AGS, AGTA, IJO or RJO.
Feeling Good About Your Choice Whoever you select as your jeweler, you should feel like you can discuss any aspect of jewelry with them – buying, selling, repairing, restoring, etc. You should be able to trust them with your valuable pieces of jewelry, as well as trust their advice and expertise.
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 13
The Best Man Best Man duties in detail
keep the bride's ring until vows are exchanged. Find a safe place for the ring (and triple check that your pockets don't have holes) -- you don't want to fumble around when it's time to whip it out.
• Corral the other guys and make sure they're performing their groomsman duties.
• Sign the marriage license as a witness after the ceremony, along with the maid of honor.
You've been there for him through thick and thin (like that time in college -- yeah, that time). This wedding won't be any different. Here's what to know when you're a best man.
A PORTABLE RESTROOMS Exceptional Service & Customer Satisfaction in the Central Coast Area Since 1936
s best man, you may think you're just a glorified groomsman, but guess what? You actually have special responsibilities -- you'll be a combination valet and hand-holder as you help the groom come through this nerveracking experience with flying colors. As leader of the groom's posse, you'll: • Serve as the groom's personal aide and adviser before and during the wedding. This can include helping him pack for the honeymoon (the valet part).
• A Variety of Types • Handicap Units • Hand Washing Units • Trailer Mounted Units • Holding Tanks • Emergency Service
Where Service is a Family Tradition – Locally Owned & Operated
• Help the groom choose and rent (or buy) wedding formalwear, and coordinate the other groomsmen's rentals. You guys are supposed to match, after all! You may be expected to arrange accommodations for out-of-town groomsmen. • Organize the bachelor party. Don't be shy about enlisting other groomsmen to help you out -- most guys don't mind this duty! Put financial worries out of your mind -- the cost should be split among everyone who attends the bash.
• Give the officiant a sealed envelope with his or her fee (the groom's responsibility) just after the ceremony.
• You may be announced with the maid of honor when the reception begins.
• Dance with both the honor attendant and the bride during the wedding party dances.
• Give the first toast to the bride and groom at the reception. This is your biggest -- and probably most frightening -- duty. Read our article about how to give a toast, and remember the cardinal rule: Mum's the word on the bachelor bacchanalia.
• Collect any gift envelopes guests bring to the reception. You may be asked to deposit them in the couple's bank account or at least to keep them until the couple returns from their honeymoon.
• Decorate the getaway mobile. Grab the other groomsmen and the bridesmaids for this one.
• Drive the couple to the wedding-night hotel or airport after the reception. If you perform this service, you'll need to stay sober throughout the reception. If you have a feeling this may not be possible, hire a limo to drive the couple into the sunset.
PORTABLE RESTROOM SERVICE CONSTRUCTION
AGRICULTURE
SPECIAL EVENTS
805.239.2007 toll free: 800.422.0229 • www.americanmarborg.com
14
Weddings
AND MORE 2012
• Attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner with the bride and groom and all the other attendants. This is your chance to figure out how you're supposed to walk down that aisle. • Stand beside the groom at the altar and
The wedding will be over in the blink of an eye, so remember to enjoy yourself at the reception. After all, you're there to celebrate the happiest day of your best friend's life.
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press
A Slice of Heaven The ins and outs of choosing a wedding cake
T
he traditional wedding cake called for a tiered, white cake with butter cream frosting. Today, just about anything goes! Wedding cakes come in all different shapes, styles, flavors, colors and decorations. Your wedding cake should be individually designed to your match own personal style and taste (no pun intended!) as well as the wedding decor and color scheme. So, let’s start with the basics...
Shapes & Sizes — The traditional shape of the wedding cake is either round or square. But, don’t let your imagination stop there. Many shapes are now available to enhance and give a unique look to your cake. Many bakers offer oval, hexagon and heart shapes - just to name a few. Square shaped cakes can be decorated in the style of gift boxes in beautiful designs with cascading ribbons. A creative baker can create a magnificent castle or a lighthouse, for a "seaside" wedding. Keep in mind that a square or round cake can be cut and served more quickly, easily and will likely serve more guests.
Icing on the Cake — Most cakes are covered in a soft white or ivory icing but sometimes pastel pink or peach can be used to match your wedding colors. You can choose a traditional white, butter cream, cream cheese, white chocolate icing, or rolled fondant. As the name implies, rolled fondant is icing that is rolled over the layers of the cake for a completely smooth and very elegant look. Another option that looks great for summertime or outdoor weddings, is the basket weave. This is usually more expensive because the baker has to actually hand weave the fondant. Dazzling Decorations — Here, your choices are endless…Some brides like to take a particular element of the wedding decor and design the cake around that theme. Bakers can decorate cakes with the look of embroidery, lace, appliqué or elegant drapes or swags. For instance, many brides will use the lace or detailing from
Fancy Flavors — Having trouble choosing a flavor for your cake? Choose a multi-flavored cake. They come in so many yummy varieties from vanilla to chocolate, marble, lemon, carrot, spice and even cheesecake. The fillings get even more tempting with raspberry, coconut, strawberry, lemon, mocha and white chocolate cream.
Published by the Paso Robles Press — February 2012
their wedding gown as a design for their wedding cake. Bring in a picture of your gown and talk to your baker to incorporate the lace or pearl beading detail into the cake. Some choose cascades of fresh or confectionery flowers or satin ribbons that coordinate with the wedding theme. Fresh Flowers — When choosing decorations for your cake, fresh flowers are always a very popular choice. In addition, fresh flowers are a less expensive alternative than confectionery flowers because there is less labor involved. Roses, pansies, petunias, Easter lilies, tiger lilies, daisies, and orchids are often used. Choose your flowers for the cake carefully. Roses can wilt very quickly when they are not placed in water. The cake is set up and arranged sometimes an hour or more before your guests will arrive. By the time you cut your cake these flowers may not look as beautiful as when they were first arranged on the
cake. Consult with both your baker and your florist for the best choice of flowers.
The Tiers — The tiers of your wedding cake can be displayed in a variety of ways including three or more tiers, one on top of each other or set on solid or clear pillars. You can be creative when it comes to pillars and use champagne glasses filled with flowers. Some elaborate designs even include bridges or a real fountain!
The Cake Topper — Many brides are foregoing the plastic figurines of the bride and groom. Instead, a popular choice is fresh or silk flowers, candied flowers, sugared fruit, or frosting flowers. Try a cake top decorated like a gazebo - very charming!
On the Side — Most cakes are delicious enough to stand alone, but who can resist a delicious raspberry sauce, fruit sorbet, or chocolate covered strawberries? A nice touch is to place chocolate covered strawberries around the base of the cake. One couple actually chose to feed each other a chocolate-covered strawberry rather than the slice of cake. When is comes to concocting the wedding cake, time and planning are just as essential as butter and eggs. Discover the possibilities–it should be as individual as you are.
Weddings
AND MORE 2012 15
Budget theWedding of Your Dreams Tips to avoid breaking the bank BY PEGGY DAVID Submitted: Peggy David Films
wedding may become your most cherished memories. And you’ll always feel good knowing that your day did have the things that mattered most to you and your groom. Of course there is one wedding detail that will always be at the top of your list. Simply stated, at the end of the day you’ll be married to the man of your dreams and that is certainly the most important wedding detail of all!
A
ccording to the Saturday Evening Post, the average price of a wedding in the United States in 1945 was $2240. That was then. Things have changed. Weddings have grown in price, and according to researchers, topped out in 2007 with the average price of tying the knot at over $28,000. Due to the economic slump prices have come down a bit since then but remain firmly over $20,000. Of course these are averages with couples at both ends of the spectrum. If having the day you’ve always dreamed of seems out of reach, what can you do to make it as close as possible? Can you still have that dream wedding on a budget? There is good news. Many of the old rules for weddings have been relaxed. It’s possible to have your wedding, your way and do it on a smaller budget. But it takes creativity, organization, as well as being informed, to make your day all that you want it to be. The first step is to think back to all the weddings you’ve attended. It’s these weddings that have helped to shape your own idea of a dream wedding. What details of these weddings were you most attracted to? Was it the special wording of the ceremony? The gorgeous flowers? Maybe there was a certain invitation that you thought was to die for. Now take out a sheet of paper and start writing down all the things that are most important to you for your wedding. List everything you can think of. Next rank them in order of importance. You will want your groom to help out with this task so that he will be included in the planning. Don’t worry about a budget at this point, just dream up a picture in your mind of your special day
16
Weddings
and all the details that will make it that way. When you’ve assembled your list and can see what your most important wedding details are, and in what order, you can easily see where your wedding dollars should be spent. As you begin to budget, you’ll find there are many elements of a wedding that you haven’t thought about or written down and these are the areas in which you will save money. Now that you have your list, find one of those readily available wedding budget forms. Start by putting your wedding budget at the top of the page. Most of these forms have a recommended percentage for each item on the list. But since this is your wedding you will pay no attention to the “expert’s” recommendations. Start with your list and fill in the budget with percentages that follow your list. While you’re doing this start lining out things that don’t matter to you and things you feel you can easily eliminate. For things that are needed but didn’t make your list, simply estimate smaller percentages than what is printed on the form. If your form doesn’t have suggested percentages, just plan your budget with your list in mind. If percentages are confusing you, just estimate how much you plan
AND MORE 2012
to spend on each item. Do this whole exercise in pencil, because you are bound to make many changes along the way. After all that adjusting you’ll finally have a plan that suits you. Perhaps you’ve decided that wedding memories are number one in importance and you’ve applied a generous amount of your wedding budget to your photography and video section. This is something that you will look for exactly what you want. For the things that didn’t make your list, you will look for deals and spend less. Fortunately, there are some things that can be eliminated and won’t even be missed. An aisle runner or a save the date card are both nice, but neither are necessary. If these weren’t on your list of important items, you may want to leave them out completely. Of course there will be some hard choices. But you know if you eliminate something, there will be more budget for something more important to you. Now is when the organization comes in. Put your budget in a binder along with divider tabs labeled with all the different areas of a wedding. You’ll have a ceremony section, flowers, music, reception, clothing, photography and videography, at a minimum. Now when you go shopping for
the items you need, you will have a place to record prices and collect information. You’re not ready to buy yet, but start shopping at both ends of the wedding dollar spectrum, so you’re truly informed. Now with your budget in hand, you can make buying choices. You had your estimate budget, now you know the actual costs. You buy according to your list of importance. If it’s on your dream list and you can adjust your budget for it, go ahead and get the ideal invitation or the perfect dress. If it’s not on your list, but still necessary, you will need to look for bargains. If it’s not on your list and unnecessary, cut it out completely. What if your list is too large to accommodate your budget? Do you remember that you ranked your list? Spend in that order. You may need to spend less on things lower on the list. It’s all right because your top details will be there just as you dreamed. What you don’t want is an entire wedding made up of compromises. It also makes no sense to follow “expert” recommendations for cutting costs if they don’t fit who you are as a couple. What you do want is to feel like the day expressed your style and included what was important to you. These elements of your
Other ways you can save: • Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts or haggle over price. The economic slum has hit the wedding industry too and even if you don’t get the discounted price you were hoping for, it doesn’t hurt to ask. • Choose a day other than Saturday. Sunday and weekday weddings are becoming more popular and some venders offer discounts for these off days. • Time your wedding right. If you have your wedding at 2:00 p.m. rather than 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. the expectation for a meal is vastly different. Guests attending a 2:00 p.m. wedding will expect something light such as hors de oeuvres, while guest attending an evening wedding will expect a heavier meal. The same thing goes for a morning wedding with a wedding brunch afterwards. This tip alone can save you hundreds of dollars. • Make sure you get the most of your wedding dollars by using the flowers and wedding decorations at both the wedding and reception locations. Assign someone to see that the flowers from the wedding are moved to the reception. Tall arrangements, can placed behind the cake table and will make a nice back drop for your photos. Place bridesmaid’s flowers across the head table to adorn it. Plan your flowers and other decorations with both the ceremony and reception in mind.
February 2012 — Published by the Paso Robles Press