Wedding Planner 2015
This supplemental guide is full of useful tips and information to make your special day an event to remember for a lifetime From the editors of
Josephine magazine
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 1
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2015
Wedding Planner
From the editors of
Josephine magazine
Index
5 Cakes and catering .......... 8 Celebration spaces ....... 11 Flowers and decorations .................. 14 Gowns and tuxes........... 17 Honeymoons ................ 20 Bridal beauty ...................
Couple brings nature indoors with personalized wedding .......................
22 Jewelry......................... 27 Photos ........................ 30 Transportation ............. 32 Wedding planner .......... 35 ON THE COVER: Katie and Chaz Lyle chose a shorter engagement, eight months, because they knew they wanted to get married in the fall and didn’t want to wait more than a year to get married. Laura Benitz Photography
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Bridal beauty
Natural looks dominate bridal beauty trends By JENA SAUBER Josephine magazine
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ith so much focus put on finding the perfect wedding dress, planning the right hairstyle, makeup and nails to accompany it can sometimes get lost in the shuffle. Having a pulled-together complete bridal look is important, and it takes time and experimenting. For 2015, the bridal runway has been full of intricate plaits and a myriad of hair accessories, including flowers, jeweled hairbands and tiaras. Looser, more natural bridal hairstyles continue to be favored over tighter, stiff looks. Don’t forget about hairpieces, such as headbands, tiaras and veils, and how they will factor into your hairstyle. Hair grows an average of a half an inch per month, so if you want long hair on your wedding day, avoid major cuts during your engagement. If you’ll need extensions to achieve your desired look, talk with your stylist early so they can be ordered and dyed to match your hair color. Exploring styles before your appointment, or going for a test run at the salon, also can help. Avoid making any major hair changes, including
coloring or drastic cuts, the week of the wedding. Get a small trim about a month ahead of time to eliminate dead ends, and invest in a high-quality hairspray to keep fly-aways in control all day. To keep your skin radiant, avoid facial peels, microdermabrasions or new skin products, the week of your wedding. Skin can react to the procedures or products and leave you with a red, patchy or dry face. Instead, stick with a cleaning and moisturizing routine in the months leading up to your wedding. If you will be doing your own makeup, invest in quality, sweat-resistant products, consult tutorials and try your look several times before the big day. If you’d prefer to have it professionally done, see if the salon that does your bridal party’s hair can add makeup or nail services at a discounted price. The newest trend in bridal nails is gel manicures and pedicures, says Nick Nguyen, owner of Allure Nails. Gel polish typically lasts for several weeks without cracking or peeling. “Gel doesn’t really damage the real nails,” Nguyen says. “Gel is popular, unless you have really short nails. Then we will do a full set of acrylic nails.” Although there are several hundred colors to chose from, white tips remain popular for weddings, as well as colors that match the wedding party’s attire. “It’s really what the bride wants,” Nguyen says. “Most of the time, they match the wedding party’s dresses.” Please see NATURAL/ Page 7
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Natural looks dominate bridal beauty trends CONTINUED FROM Page 5 Nguyen recommends calling to book an appointment several weeks before the wedding and choosing a less busy time of day for the nail appointments, especially if you have a large party. In the months and weeks leading up to the wedding, drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and gently exfoliating skin once a week can help keep skin and hair healthy. Pack a small bag of beauty essentials, including tweezers, hairspray, a nail file, makeup for touch ups and a mirror, for the day of the wedding to help prevent last-minute beauty emergencies. By taking the time to plan ahead and experiment, you can ensure your wedding-day look is polished, cohesive and stress free. Jena Sauber can be reached at jena.sauber@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPSauber.
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Cakes and catering
Comforting, traditional reception menus still reign By BROOKE WILSON Josephine magazine
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hile the wedding ceremony symbolizes a couple’s love and commitment to each other, the reception is where the party really starts. And everyone knows you can’t have a good party without good food. Catering the reception often takes up a majority of the wedding budget. Depending on your catering options, costs can quickly exceed $10 per plate or more. If you have a long guest list, it requires making careful, concise plans so that you don’t break the bank trying to feed everyone. Sue Ann Bell, owner of Cedar Ridge Restaurant, Catering and Banquet Hall in Atchison, Kan., says couples should go into the catering appointment with a clear idea of how much they can afford and how many people will be attending. Like many catering companies, Cedar Ridge offers a full line of services, providing as little or as much support as the client needs. Rather than having a set menu, though, Cedar Ridge works with clients’ budgets and preferences to decide what food to serve. “We can help you pick a menu, but you can create your own menu,” Bell says. Cedar Ridge often holds ceremonies and receptions on its grounds, or the staff can cater to facilities within 100 miles. Some venues only allow a few approved companies 8 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
Brooke Wilson can be reached at brooke.wilson@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPWilson.
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to handle food in their facilities, so knowing a venue’s rules also can determine what is served and how much it will cost. A trend Bell has seen recently is couples requesting simple comfort foods instead of formal spreads like steak or prime rib. She says pork, brisket, macaroni and cheese, soups and even family recipes that Cedar Ridge helped recreate ranked high on the list this past year. Besides budget, she thinks couples also should have their favorite foods in mind when deciding on a caterer so they can match one to their tastes. The wedding cake is another key ingredient for a great reception. Misty Cooke recently moved to St. Joseph with her family from Alabama, and she brought her successful cake business, Cake Simplicity, with her. After an injury forced her to give up a more labor-intensive job, she turned a hobby into a career. She used to make 20 to 30 cakes a week in Alabama, so starting from scratch is slow, but in two short months she says she’s had nearly 40 orders in town. She hopes business continues to pick up in the spring, because wedding cakes are her favorite cakes to make. “I can do, literally, anything you could possibly want. It’s all custom work, any flavors you would want. That’s why I like doing it so much, is because everybody has a different idea of what they want,” Cooke says. Many couples still request traditional styles and flavors for their wedding cakes, like white cake with buttercream, but Cooke does whimsical sculpting and designs, too. Rustic, country-themed cakes that incorporate things like twigs, burlap or even camouflage have been popular this year. Some couples choose not to have a large wedding cake, opting instead for cupcakes, cookies, cheesecakes or other sweets in a dessert bar. When that happens, many choose a small one- or two-tier cake to cut into during the reception. Cooke says this can save people money while still keeping a familiar tradition.
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Celebration spaces
Cost, setting factors in venue choices
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 11
Weddings with country, elegant themes gaining popularity with couples By RAY SCHERER Josephine magazine
C
ouples poring over the possibilities for their wedding and reception venue should carefully review their list of preferences before making any definite commitments.
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Roderick Dryden, who owns Paradise Park near Oregon, Mo., advises the betrothed to decide whether or not they want to recite their nuptials indoors or outdoors — depending on the time of year. “Some like spring, some like fall,” he says. Many couples opt to handle their own decorating, according to Dryden. “A lot of times they’re looking for country. They’re looking for rustic. They’re looking for a barn,” he says. “A lot of times they’ll want a destination.”
Legendary
Checking websites and Facebook pages can be good places to start. Outdoor sites are becoming very popular, including with those from urban areas. A majority of couples are striving to cut down on expenses. Reception plans can involve a wide latitude for selecting a caterer, DJ and a sound system, Dryden says. Again, the general tendency is to reflect priorities toward saving money. Another alternative is assigning the venue tasks to family and friends. Summer weddings should take guest comfort into account. For example, Dryden advocates settings that will accommodate adequate ventilation. Tables and chairs are another vital consideration, such as whether extra fees will be assessed in the total rental cost. Cindy Barker, who with her husband, Rob, operates The Red Poppy in St. Joseph and Ol’ MacDonald’s Farm in Savannah, Mo., says weddings with country and elegant themes have gained in popularity. In those cases, money is no object in arranging for more decorations. “I’m seeing more upper-scale weddings than I did two years ago,” she says. Yet others must rely on stricter budgets and therefore pick a more reasonable setting, Barker adds. All-encompassing venue packages are becoming more of a norm. “They need to look for a place that will offer full service for what they need,” she says. The website www.theknot.com suggests couples look for a space that is large enough to contain the number of people on the guest list. The need for privacy is another consideration, especially with public outdoor settings such as parks. Restaurants with reception areas also offer some potential. Lighting can make or break both the mood and space, the website adds. A daytime ceremony should allow for a hall that has plenty of windows. Controlled lighting can assist with evening events. Finally, parking for the venue should be taken into account. Make sure the site is near lots, garages or streets for the wedding party and guests.
Ray Scherer can be reached at ray.scherer@newspressnow.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SJNPScherer.
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Flowers and decor
Simplify flowers and decor to avoid stress By BROOKE WILSON Josephine magazine
D
eciding how to decorate a venue can be one of the most stressful parts of wedding planning. Instead of getting swept up in the chaos, it’s best to have a clear vision for your wedding day before making purchases and consulting with professionals.
Katie Peterson of Spectacular Settings and Diedra May of Garden Gate Flowers and Gifts say to keep your budget in mind when planning. Pinterest.com has endless flower and decor ideas, but many of them cost thousands of dollars. Knowing your budget up front and committing to not going over it will help determine your design. “You have to keep a realistic idea of what you can afford,” Peterson says. If you’re doing most of the decorating yourself but your funds or creative abilities are limited, she recommends sticking with candles. They’re a cheap, easy way to transform a space, and they can come in all different colors and arrangements. “If you just put a line of votives down the center of the table, when the lights are dim and the candles are lit it looks really elegant,” she says. For more elaborate setups, Peterson says professional decorating services are a good idea for those with larger budgets. Doing it yourself might seem fun and easy at first, but it can get 14 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
overwhelming when juggling several details at once. A current decoration trend she has noticed is using metallics instead of, or in addition to, traditional wedding colors. “Gold is super popular. Almost every bride I’ve had an appointment with for 2015 has wanted gold incorporated in some way,” Peterson says. She also says to match the decor to the venue. If you’re getting married in a barn, stick with rustic elements within your decorations rather than trying anything too sleek or modern. On the flip side, don’t go overboard with burlap and Mason jars if the venue is a high-end, elegant reception hall. May says flowers should never have to be out of the question in a wedding, even if you have limited funds. “Any time when you’re on a strict budget, that does not mean you can’t afford pretty flowers,” she says. Some brides opt for simple bouquets and boutonnières instead of having flowers on every table, which helps cut costs. Small tablescapes with a few single-stem flowers inside a glass jar also are much more affordable than full arrangements. Depending on where you buy them, May says faux flowers sometimes cost less than real ones, and they can be used over and over. Another way to save money is to buy flowers during their growing season. Peonies, garden roses, calla lilies and other spring flowers are very popular in the spring and summer, but they are only in season for a small window of time. Shipping them from somewhere else during the off-season can raise the price. Instead, pick something hardier that’s available year-round, like succulents. “Succulents were the most popular thing this past year. There’s lots of different things you can do with them. ... Everybody wants a lot of texture,” May says. Berries, twigs, vines and metallic embellishments are other ways to create texture and visual interest in your arrangements. Brooke Wilson can be reached at brooke.wilson@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPWilson.
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Come see what our magnificent facility has to offer for your wedding and reception. Our Clubhouse allows room for a full service wedding and reception. Host your wedding outside on our beautiful golf course with plenty of room for guests to cocktail and socialize on our lovely outside patio. Also, we have rooms available in the Clubhouse for the wedding party to get ready for the Ceremony. Our Grand Ballroom is the perfect place to host your wedding reception! Our culinary team can create a menu exactly to your specifications. The Grand Ballroom can comfortably seat 250 and still leave room for a large dance floor. There is an additional room attached to the ballroom that can hold up to 50 more guests for your special day. A $750.00 deposit is required at the date of booking. The deposit is refundable up to 90-days prior to the event. Please call 816-233-0241 or e-mail Jen Stroud at jennifer@stjoecc.com to receive your copy of the Banquet package today!
Benton Club Specializing in Fine Dining, Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Special Events, and Off-Site Catering.
We have an on-site chef and coordinator to assist with your planning process.
For more information on hosting an event call (816) 232-6719.
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Making Your Event Elegant!
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Gowns and tuxedos
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www.robidouxrowmuseum.org WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 17
Wedding wear flashes back Victorian, vintage flare become popular trends
By KRISTIN HOPPA Josephine magazine
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hat was once old is new again, according to the latest wedding wear trends for the upcoming 2015 season.
From a young age, many girls have fantasized about not only the perfect man, but the perfect dress. The hunt for the perfect dress has taken many brides back in time with rustic, Victorian and a more vintage feel in popular trends in the most recent years. “Lace, fit-and-flare, illusion necklines or some kind of a strap have been very popular,” says Shannon Beemer, owner of Shannon Renee’s Formal Wear & Acces-
sories. “... Brides like dresses with some length of sleeves and probably more of a natural waist if they don’t do a fit-and-flare.” The owner of the formal wear store at 2921 N. Belt Highway, says lace has been a popular choice for brides for decades. For some brides, the desire for ball gowns and lots of tulle has disappeared — notably after the most recent royal wedding sparked a new trend.
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1100 Charles Street, St. Joseph, Missouri
Visit www.stjosephmuseum.org or call the St. Joseph Museums at 816.232.8471 for rental rates or to schedule a viewing of the mansion.
“I think (the dress worn by) Kate Middleton started the vintage, lace fad,” Beemer says. “That image of her getting out of the car on the way to the royal wedding is an image that a lot of brides have seemed to try and match.” Sheer panels and glam necklines are making a mark this year for bridal gowns and for wedding parties. For bridal parties, a vintage or rustic feel also is carrying over into the world of wedding wear. “Blues and purples are very popular for bridesmaid dresses, but lace also carries over into the bridesmaid dresses too,” Beemer says. “For men’s tuxedos or even formal suits, we do a lot of blues and grays. Blacks are starting to become second choice.” Soft tortoise and mint colors also are a vintage feel some couples opt for on their big day. Long bridesmaid dresses are coming back for wedding wear for a more classic wedding look. Similar looks are being sought at Bridal Boutique in St. Joseph, where Leigh Ann Swarts helps find the perfect fit and style in wedding wear for soon-to-be brides. “Lace, lace and more lace, and sleeves too,” she says. “There are a lot of dresses that will have a tank or cap-sleeve. A keyhole back is still popular, but I don’t think I’ve even sold a dress without lace recently.” Swarts agrees that another popular trend is men’s suits fading away from a traditional black suit to gray or blue suits. She says both colors, plus the lace fad, have created a rustic or antique look that appeals to most brides. “I hear a lot from brides that they are doing a rustic, shabby chic thing with blush bridesmaids and gray tuxes, but a lot of guys are opting out of even wearing the suit jacket and going for colored suspenders.” Regardless of gown and tuxedo budgets, Swarts and Beemer say couples still focus on style mixed with comfort for their special day. Kristin Hoppa can be reached at kristin.hoppa@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPHoppa.
Castle Bridge Event Center 816-364-4640
Great for weddings, holiday parties, anniversaries, photo shoots, birthdays and many more events.
Bridal/ Baby Showers $250 Anniversaries $350 Holiday Parties Reunions $350 Weddings $450 Wedding Receptions $800 Wedding with Reception $1000 $300 damage deposit on all rentals Occupancy 100: additional seating is available.
8403 US Hwy 59 South St. Joseph, MO 64504 Contact: Kevin Phone: 816-364-4640 Email: carverkevin46@gmail.com 75037601
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 19
Honeymoons
Get away
Honeymoons give couples a chance to relax after one of the biggest days in their lives 20 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
By CLINTON THOMAS Josephine magazine
W
ith the vows exchanged, the cake cut and the wedding dress packed safely away, newlyweds finally have the chance to take a little time to themselves.
The honeymoon gives new couples a well-earned escape after the sometimes stressful process of planning their big day — as long as they do their homework. Companies like Cotter Travel in St. Joseph help the bride and groom with all the details in advance so their first trip as a married couple can be memorable for all the right reasons, as opposed to an expensive headache. General Manager Chad Cotter says planning helps couples secure the trip they’ve dreamed about. “If it’s a popular destination or resort, you want to try to book 10 to 11 months out so you make sure you get the dates you want,” Cotter says. “By booking it that far in advance, you’re always going to get your early-booking discounts.” For many couples, the dream destination could take them outside the United States. Such trips will require travelers to either apply for or renew a passport. In some cases, people who have current documents still could face unexpected trouble. “Some destinations will require you to have a passport that will not expire within six months of you entering the country,” Cotter says. “We sit down with everyone to make sure you don’t run into that kind of problem.” Information on obtaining a passport can be found online at http://
travel.state.gov. Honeymooners have the whole world to pick from — or at least as much of it as their budget allows. Cotter says locations in coastal Mexico have been the most popular for newlyweds for the past decade. Hawaii has surged in popularity as well, while the islands of the Caribbean maintain their constant allure. If time or money rule out an international trip, plenty of memorable options wait a short flight away. Las Vegas has long provided wedding kitsch at a price almost as high or as low as the couple desires. The Florida coast offers access to the same type of weather and beaches available in the Caribbean at a fraction of the price. Those who want something other than a beach can find fun next to an entirely different kind of water at Niagara Falls, which has been a popular honeymoon destination for East Coast residents for 200 years. “If you know your budget and have an idea of where you want to go, we’re here to tell them the pluses and minuses of each,” Cotter says. “Someone in our office has usually traveled to one of the destinations, so we can give them first-hand knowledge.” Clinton Thomas can be reached at clinton.thomas@newspressnow.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SJNPThomas.
Brides! B idd ! Sa S Save 20% on Dress D & Accessories with Maids & Tux rental or purchase! • Bridal Expo Sunday February 22nd 2015 1-4 pm • Pre-register at www.2trendymo.com and 1 Bride wins a $500 gift certificate… • Another Bridal Expo in October 2015 3500 N. Village Drive - (816) 749 4202 In the Historic Green Acres Building Open Monday - Friday 11 to 6, Saturday 11 to 4 75038659
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WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 21
Couple brings n
Katie and Chaz Lyle got married in the unrenovated area of Restoration Church in Downtown St. Joseph. The space gave them the rustic look they were wanting, the couple says.
Outdoor enthusiasts capture the best of Moth By JENA SAUBER Josephine magazine
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hen two outdoor enthusiasts decide to bring nature into their indoor wedding, it takes some creative thinking and hard work to make their dreams a reality. 22 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
So that’s what St. Joseph newlyweds Katie and Chaz Lyle did for their Oct. 25, 2014, wedding at Restoration Church, from personalized trivia on their wedding programs to natural decorations to a spread of homemade “country desserts.” “We’re outdoorsy people. We love to hunt and be out in the country,” Katie says. “Some of our favorite things are going and looking for deer or scouting turkeys. We really wanted to bring the outdoors in.” The couple decided against having the wedding for 370 guests outside (“There are too many things to worry about,” Katie says), and instead brought nature into their ceremony space. Chaz
found and brought in trees from Katie’s par them on the stage and entrance. “It was as close to a you could get being in Susie Lyle. Katie’s dad, Charlie cutting wooden roun emony and reception Center. They topped t Mason jars and flowe
nature indoors
Laura Benitz Photography
her Nature with personalized wedding decor
n multiple 15-foot hardwood rents’ farm and arranged d in an archway by the
an outdoor barn wedding as nside,” says Chaz’s mother,
e, also spent many hours nds and stumps for the cern, held at the Moila Shrine the stumps and rounds with ers.
Michael Shaun Brown, a Nashville Southern rock country music performer, played during the ceremony and reception. Katie surprised Chaz with the performances after the couple met Mr. Brown in Nashville in 2013. Laura Benitz Photography
Please see COUPLE/Page 24
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 23
Couple brings in the outdoors with customized wedding decor CONTINUED FROM Page 23 “It kind of felt like we were outdoors,” Katie says. “There were leaves scattered all up the aisle and the flower girl threw leaves instead of flowers. ... All the decorations were free, but it took some time getting them together.” The couple inserted their personal touches into many elements of the day, including walking down the aisle to the theme song from their favorite movie, “Legends of the Fall,” including “Chaz and Katie trivia” on their programs and writing their own vows. “I was so excited about that part. It was so neat to see how they feel about each other, and you’d start to cry and then both of them would make a joke,” says Aaryn Lyle, Chaz’s sister and a bridesmaid. “It was such a comfortable, relaxed, cool time.” The couple left the ceremony in Chaz’s grandpa Joe’s truck, another personal touch. Chaz’s grandpa had passed away shortly before the wedding and had said many times how excited he was to be sitting in the front row at the ceremony. They placed one of Joe’s cowboy hats on the truck’s dash, as well as on the stage during the ceremony. “It kind of just clicked one day,” Katie says. “... It was kind of neat. It was kind of like he was there.” Inspired by the more than 30 weddings the couple had been to together, they put a priority on making the guests feel comfortable. They held the wedding at 4 p.m. to allow plenty of time and made sure guests didn’t have to wait on the wedding party to arrive at the reception to eat. The couple also made sure they had plenty of time to enjoy their own reception. “We wanted to have a very respectful timeline for our guests,” Chaz says. “We didn’t want them to look back and say ‘Their wedding was great, but we waited three and 24 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
Laura Benitz Photography
The 40 centerpieces at the Lyle wedding included wooden rounds cut by Katie’s dad, Mason jars and flowers. a half hours and we didn’t have a hotel so we had to sit at McDonald’s for an hour.’” Neither were big fans of traditional wedding cakes, so they opted for three smaller, single-layer cakes and more than 400 individual “country themed” desserts, including apple pie, bread pudding
and cheesecake, all made by Chaz’s aunt Amy Wilt and her friend Jodie Heggemeier. During most of their eight-month engagement, Katie says she stayed off Pinterest. “I did Pinterest for a while, but then it completely overwhelmed me,” she says. “I would see another
Laura Benitz Photography
Inspired by a shared lack of love for wedding cake, Katie and Chaz served small cakes with an array of ‘country inspired’ individual desserts, including apple pie and bread pudding. idea that I liked, or another complete color scheme that I liked. I was just like ‘You know what, I’m going to stay off Pinterest. I’m going to stay with what I originally always thought I’d do.’” The hardest part of planning was keeping her husband’s wedding gift a secret, Katie says. The couple had met Southern rock country music singer Michael Shaun Brown while in Nashville in 2013, and Chaz mentioned how much he’d like the musician at the wedding. “I Facebooked the guy in March, and I was totally scared that he was going to laugh in my face and not remember who I was,” Katie says. “I asked him to please come play at our wedding reception, and he messaged me back and said he’d love to do it.” She kept it a surprise while navigating Mr. Brown’s travel details and doing a sound check at the church the day before the wedding. Chaz didn’t know about the surprise guest until the middle of the ceremony. It’s important to invest the largest amounts of time and money into things that are truly important, Chaz says. “There is so much media out
Laura Benitz Photography
Katie Lyle carried a bright, fresh flower bouquet, and her bridesmaids carried baby’s breath bouquets. A key to a successful wedding is not stressing over the details, she says.
Laura Benitz Photography
Katie and Chaz Lyle were married on Oct. 25, 2014, at Restoration Church. there that ‘it should be like this, or it should be like that,’’’ he says. “Spend money on the stuff that matters, that makes you happy. People will rack up a large bill on stuff that they think will please everybody versus what they really like.” The best piece of advice the couple received during planning was to relax, because something would go wrong, no matter how well they planned, Katie says. And it did. They decided to have guests release helium balloons while they drove away from the ceremony. The night before, one of Katie’s friends blew up more than 350 purple, turquoise and white balloons. “They all get to the church before
me on Saturday, and (the balloons) are deflated, just kind of hanging by the ground,” Katie says. “They told me, but really I don’t think it bothered me that much ... they just shook them as we drove by!” Accomplishing a mostly do-ityourself wedding was easier with the help of their parents, Chaz says, including Katie’s mother, Wanda Hrenchir, who was the matron of honor. “A do-it-yourself wedding is harder without others,” he says. “Both of (Katie’s) parents are retired and could help. My mom was home and they’d take little projects.” In the end, it wasn’t the details that are important, Aaryn says of her brother and sister-in-law’s wedding. “The important thing, and what they’ve always remembered, is that it’s a celebration of their love. Stuff is going to go wrong. ... But Chaz and Katie were just like ‘whatever’ and remembered that they were there for each other,” she says. “It could have rained on them, but they are getting married that day and want to spend the rest of their lives together.” Jena Sauber can be reached at jena.sauber@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPSauber.
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 25
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26 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
Jewelry
‘Diamonds don’t wear out’ Area jewelers suggest buying potential heirloom keepsake to fit owner’s lifestyle
By JESSICA SHUMAKER Josephine magazine
W
hen it comes to selecting wedding rings or wedding jewelry, the choices a bride and groom make go beyond the big day. Please see AREA/Page 28
WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 27
Area jewelers talk bridal bling CONTINUED FROM Page 27 “The coolest thing about jewelry is that essentially, it’s an instant heirloom,” says Mark Segrist, adding that a bride will pass down pieces in her family to children and grandchildren. Segrist, the owner of owner of Niche of Time Jewelry in St. Joseph, says diamonds are one of the few jewels that can be worn in all occasions. “Diamonds don’t wear out,” he says. Segrist and another local jeweler, Dennis Adams, owner of Adams Fine Jewelry, weighed in on important points to consider as couples shop. Adams says when couples or prospective fiancés stop by, he sparks a conversation to learn more about the couple to help identify their needs in a ring. “Some people, they think I get a little nosy,” he says. Adams says he likes to ask questions about their lifestyle and jobs to help find a perfect fit. He notes that women who work in certain fields, like a day-care provider or in medical care, would need to consider rings that wouldn’t cause injury to children or snag on hospital gloves. “I have to go, ‘What’s your lifestyle?’ and figure out what you’re doing with it,” he says. Segrist says his shop has a variety of styles for the different needs of shoppers.
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“We have styles specifically that a lot of people in the medical field go for,” Segrist says. “They’re lower and don’t catch on gloves.” In terms of determining a diamond’s quality, and whether it is priced accurately for its quality, both encouraged consumers to learn more about the Gemological Institute of America, or GIA, diamond grading system. Adams notes that one particular diamond ring may be less expensive, but the trade-off could be a lower-quality product. When it comes to a diamond’s shape, both jewelers say princess cuts, a square shape, remain popular. Segrist says that round diamonds remain a classic look. He’s noticed that oval and cushion-shaped diamonds, a slightly rectangular-shaped cut, have gained in popularity on the coasts. “I think cushion (cuts) will be more popular in the next year, year and a half,” he says. When it comes to ring style, Segrist says that vintage styles remain trendy, but he’s seen a rise in brides looking to add their own twist. His shop specializes in computer-aided design to make one-of-a-kind rings for couples. “Sometimes they make it their own,” he says. Both say that white gold remains a popular option for metal. Segrist says yellow gold is making a comeback, however. Both Adams and Segrist say pearls are a classic wedding-day choice for jewelry. Segrist says the store has never sold as many pearls as it has in recent years. His store sells rare Golden South Sea pearls and Tahitian Black pearls. Adams says brides often also will opt to purchase pieces for their bridesmaids as a gift, like pendant necklaces. There are also options for special details for grooms and their groomsmen. Segrist says he sells cufflinks with logos for sports teams and comic book characters.
Jessica Shumaker can be reached at jessica.shumaker@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPShumaker.
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Photography
Wedding pictures: choose wisely Referrals are key to landing a good photographer to document your special occasion By JENNIFER HALL Josephine magazine
T
here’s no doubt the dress, the cake and the decorations are a big part of your day. But at the end of the wedding, and years later, photos of your special day will be all that remains. 30 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
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Birthdays, Anniversaries, Reunions, Weddings & Receptions
“It’s the only thing you really have left, so don’t cheat yourself out of finding a really great photographer,” says Lura Landis Kirby, owner of Lura Landis Photography. One of the best ways to find a great professional photographer is by referrals. Talk to other couples and see who they are using. You also can look in the phone book and go online to search the area for photographers. Once you’ve found a few, research them. Landis Kirby says it’s best not to decide based on the website alone. “Go to their location and look at their albums,” she says. “Look through wedding after wedding and make sure there is consistency.” Many couples may run into the problem of amateur photographers, meaning individuals who have a camera and charge to take pictures, as well as booking a big-name photographer who then contracts out the wedding. To take it a step further, ask for references, says Mona Long-Brumm with Portraits by Long. In the case of booking one photographer and getting another, Long-Brumm says to ask to see that photographer’s work as well. “You get what you pay for,” Landis Kirby says. Years of experience, quality advertisements and reputations are just a few things that separate the good photographers from the bad.
“Some people seriously are in it and out of it overnight,” LongBrumm says. “Just because they buy a camera, they didn’t take any classes to know how to use it. That doesn’t mean they are a photographer.” But the use of unprofessional photographers has become popular as people look to save money. Most simply put the photos on a disk and sell the disk. Long-Brumm says this gets away from the editing process to complete that professional look. “If they don’t have lighting equipment to help them shoot, there’s a lot of times you can’t get a really good photo without the right lighting equipment,” she says. “And this is what can separate the amateurs and the professionals.” Landis Kirby says most couples spend 15 to 20 percent of their wedding budget on photography and videography, sometimes more depending on how important it is to them. “Spend your money there,” she says. If you can cut back on decorations for the pews or favors, use the savings to go toward pictures. Both photographers say a fair budget would be around $1,200 but can go up to about $3,000 if you are ordering lots of prints and photo books. Jennifer Hall can be reached at jenn.hall@newspressnow.com. Follow her on Twitter: @SJNPHall.
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Transportation
Hitchin’ the ride
Booking transportation to and from the wedding 32 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
By ANDREW GAUG Josephine magazine
T
here’s something to be said for getting to a wedding reception in style, whether it’s attaining those “Cinderella” dreams of arriving in a horsedrawn carriage, traditional limo or party bus for the wedding party.
Please see BOOKING/Page 34
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If you have a desire to go to a wedding reception in style, there’s a company willing to get you there, provided you pay the right price tag and schedule at the right time. When it comes to scheduling, three transportation companies, Yates Limo and Great White Limo in St. Joseph and Duncan Carriages in Savannah, Mo., each say it all depends on the month when people are getting married. Requiring a minimum booking of two hours, limousine services need time to plan out schedules, especially in months when they’re busiest. “If they’re getting married June-July, the hot months where the weddings are big, then you might want six months in advance,” owner Shelia Yates said in a previous interview. During seasons like prom, Yates advises couples to plan closer to one year in advance of the wedding. “If you’re getting married March through May, it’s prom season. There’s a whole ‘nother ballpark,” she says. “We have to say a minimum of five hours (for weddings) because if we took weddings during prom season, it defeats the purpose. Everybody wants a limo for prom.” With two town cars, a 10-person stretch limo and 16- to 18-person bus, Great White Limo has options for its customers. Just because they have those doesn’t mean people should wait on booking them. “Most of these weddings, start three to six months (ahead of time) when they’re working on them. Usually, if it’s going to be early when prom season is still going on, it’d probably be good to do it in January,” Bill Felice, owner of Great White Limo, says. The folks at Duncan Carriages, a horse-drawn carriage business in operation since 1989, need around the same amount of notice, about six to eight months in advance. “To get the carriage, we need to figure out how far they want to go, how many people they want to take, that’s the main thing. And then I can work out whatever plan we need to do,” Wayne Duncan, owner of Duncan Carriages, said in a previous interview.
2207 N. Belt Hwy Suite F • (816) 233-6946 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 33
Booking the ride for your wedding CONTINUED FROM Page 33 What to book depends on the size of the party — the soon-to-be husband and wife will be fine in a carriage or town car, while a medium-sized wedding party will fit in a limo. Anything bigger (think more than 12 to 14 people), likely will need a bus. “Some of these wedding parties get so big, they have to go on a bus,” Felice says. “12 to 15 (people), sometimes you get 18 to 20. If they’re just going around town, just getting their pictures taken at Krug Park, they don’t mind packing in. For the most part, it’s not safe to go down the highway with that many.” Some places take deposits to make sure the couple saves a spot on the calendar and sticks to it. “Once you put down your deposit, someone could say ‘I have $500, cancel the wedding, I want you to take my kid’s prom.’ (We’re) like ‘No, we’re professional,’” Yates says. Felice doesn’t see a deposit as a necessity. If the couple’s hearts are in
it, they’ll follow through, as he’s seen. “I don’t do that. Everybody does it to them hoping they don’t show up or get married, I guess, then they don’t give the refunds back,” he says. “I’d rather they pay when the ride comes rather than pay in advance.” “Most weddings don’t cancel anyways. They’ve already spent so much time and money,” he says. “Very rarely is it where they’ve had an argument or battle and they’re not getting married.” One piece of advice Felice shares: When it comes to the end of the night, let the newly married couple go to where they’re staying alone. “When the bride and groom try to involve their friends when they’ve been drinking all day and all night, you then have the liquor problems — trouble getting along and getting in fights,” he says. “It’s better they leave everybody behind and just go their way.” Andrew Gaug can be reached at andrew.gaug@newspressnow.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SJNPGaug.
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Wedding planner checklist Brides’ to-do timeline 6 to 12 months before the wedding
[ ] Determine budget. [ ] Decide type of wedding: formal, semi-formal or informal. [ ] Choose ceremony location. [ ] Discuss dates with clergy or officiant. [ ] Choose attendants. [ ] Select gown style. [ ] Select veil style.
[ ] Select attendants’ apparel. [ ] Compile bride’s and groom’s invitation list. [ ] Select reception site. [ ] Select caterer. [ ] Select wedding planner. [ ] Plan details of reception. [ ] Select photographer. [ ] Have engagement photos taken.
[ ] Select music for reception. [ ] Select videographer. [ ] Select florist. [ ] Discuss gown colors and styles with mothers of bride and groom. [ ] If composing own vows, inform officiant.
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Bride’s to-do timeline continued 4 to 6 months before wedding [ ] Select men’s formalwear and arrange for final fitting a few days before wedding. [ ] Select ceremony musicians and music. [ ] Make honeymoon plans. [ ] Print map to include with invitations. [ ] Reserve hotel rooms for outof-town guests. [ ] Have physical exams and update immunizations. [ ] Buy wedding rings and order engraving. [ ] Finalize invitation list with families. [ ] Visit hairdresser and manicurist; make wedding day appointments for bridal party. [ ] Order all printed items, including invitations, thankyou notes, programs and napkins. [ ] Order needed utensils, which may include engraved cake knife, personalized champagne glasses and a box for monetary gifts.
2 to 4 months before wedding [ ] Reserve rental items: candelabra, arches, canopy, lines, etc. [ ] Arrange rehearsal dinner. [ ] Shop for trousseau and apparel for honeymoon and prenuptial parties. [ ] Reserve limousine, carriage, trolley or coach transportation. [ ] Review florist’s arrangements and finalize order. 36 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
[ ] Buy attendants’ gifts. [ ] Experiment with hairstyle and makeup changes. [ ] Buy bride’s and attendants’ shoes; send to be dyed. [ ] Order wedding and groom’s cakes. [ ] Plan the ceremony and select music for the service. [ ] You should receive your invitations at least three months before the wedding; send them out immediately. Don’t forget to request a reply date of at least five weeks before the wedding. [ ] Register for wedding gifts at the stores of your choice. [ ] Decide on reception menu and select beverage options; decide if there will be an open bar.
1 to 2 months before wedding [ ] Final bridal fitting. [ ] Final attendants’ fittings. [ ] Confirm honeymoon reservations. [ ] Select reception decorations: balloons, candles, table favors, etc.
[ ] Select ceremony accessories: unity candle, ring pillow, guest book, etc. [ ] Select personal accessories: handbag, garter, engraved goblets, guest mementos, etc. [ ] Finalize arrangements with officiant. [ ] Finalize arrangements with musicians taking part in the ceremony. [ ] Arrange bridesmaids’ lunch or brunch. [ ] Finalize arrangements with photographer and videographer. Discuss any special shots you want. [ ] Finalize arrangements with musicians, disc jockey and master of ceremonies for the reception. [ ] Finalize arrangements with florist, specifying time and place of delivery. [ ] Finalize transportation arrangements. [ ] Make sure all clothes for bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers will be ready on time and that they have the appropriate accessories.
Bride’s to-do timeline continued [ ] Apply for marriage license. [ ] Formally inform employer of leave of absence.
2 weeks before wedding [ ] Invite guests to rehearsal dinner. [ ] Move your belongings into new home. [ ] Review reception seating and place cards. [ ] Confirm lodging for out-of-town guests. [ ] Record gifts as you receive them and write thank-you notes. [ ] Arrange for gown cleaning and bouquet preservation after the wedding. [ ] Finalize arrangements with hall and caterer, confirming final number of guests (preferably in writing). [ ] Finalize arrangements with baker regarding cake. [ ] Pick up wedding dress and bridesmaids’ dresses. [ ] Groom or best man arranges final fittings for men in the wedding party. [ ] Prepare envelopes with payments for the officiant, reception hall, musicians, disc jockey, etc. [ ] Ask officiant when he/she would like to receive your marriage license. [ ] Begin packing for honeymoon.
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Bride’s to-do timeline continued
1 week before
wedding
[ ] Pick up wedding rings and check engravings and sizes. [ ] Final consultations with florist, musicians, photographer, videographer, etc. [ ] If you are having a rehearsal, present attendants with gifts. [ ] Men have final fitting two to three days before the wedding and pick up formalwear and shoes. [ ] Make a wedding day schedule and give everyone copies 38 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
at the rehearsal dinner. [ ] Relax the day before; keep personal appointments; finish honeymoon packing.
honeymoon spending money are all assembled.
Day of the wedding
[ ] Arrange for your car, your going-away outfits and your luggage to be delivered to the reception hall.
[ ] Give payment envelopes to the best man, who will deliver them after the ceremony and at the reception.
[ ] Arrange for someone to bring tissues, lipstick and any other personal items to the reception.
[ ] Go to hairdresser, makeup artist and manicurist.
[ ] Be dressed and ready for the picture-taking two hours before the ceremony or according to the arrangements made with your photographer.
[ ] Make sure the car keys, wedding rings, marriage license, keys to the new house, airplane tickets, hotel confirmations and
[ ] Relax and enjoy your big day.
Budget for your big day CATEGORY/ITEM
BUDGET
COST
CATEGORY/ITEM
CEREMONY Site fee Officiant fee ceremony music
WEDDING ATTIRE Bridal gown Headpiece and veil Undergarments, garter Accessories Alterations Hair/makeup Groom’s tux
BUDGET
COST
PRINTING Invitations Save-the-date cards RSVP cards Wedding programs Wedding favors Napkins Announcements Place cards Thank-you notes
PHOTOGRAPHY
RECEPTION Site rental Caterer/food Liquor/beverages Cake/sweets table Gratuities/taxes Rentals Band/disc jockey
Engagements Formal portraits Wedding day Wedding album Extra prints Videography
BUDGET
COST
FLOWERS/DECORATIONS Ceremony site Bridal bouquet Attendants bouquets Boutonnières Reception site
GIFTS Bride/groom Bridesmaids Groomsmen Ushers Parents
MISCELLANEOUS PARTIES
Rehearsal dinner Bridesmaids’ lunch
SUB TOTALS
CATEGORY/ITEM
SUB TOTALS
TOTAL BUDGET
Marriage license Hotel rooms Wedding consultant Other
SUB TOTALS
TOTAL COST
Add all amounts from budget column
Add all amounts from cost column
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Wedding checklist
BRIDAL REGISTRY
TABLESERVICE/LINENS [ ] China [ ] Crystal glassware [ ] Silver service [ ] Silverware chest [ ] Dinnerware [ ] Glassware/barware [ ] Stainless service [ ] Formal cloth
[ ] Shoes, dress and casual
[ ] Casual cloth
[ ] Belt
[ ] Formal napkins
[ ] Evening attire
[ ] Casual napkins [ ] Placements
[ ] Insurance information RECEPTION
TOILETRIES
[ ] Private room [ ] Staff
[ ] Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash
[ ] Catering service
[ ] Toaster
[ ] Comb, brush
[ ] Guest tables
[ ] Mixer
[ ] Curling iron, hair dryer
[ ] Coffee maker
[ ] Shampoo, conditioner
[ ] Blender
[ ] Deodorant
[ ] Food processor
[ ] Soap
[ ] Iron
[ ] Shaving cream, razors
APPLIANCES
OTHER
[ ] Unbreakable mirror
[ ] Master bed linens
[ ] Cosmetics
[ ] Master bath linens
[ ] Contact lenses/glasses
[ ] Guest bed linens
[ ] Vitamins, medications
[ ] Guest bath linens
EXTRAS
[ ] Cookware
[ ] Alarm clock
[ ] Carving knives
[ ] Camera and batteries
HONEYMOON CLOTHING
[ ] Cell phone and charger [ ] Insect repellent
[ ] Pants/shorts
[ ] Sunblock
[ ] Swimsuit
[ ] Pain reliever
[ ] Parka or coat
[ ] Maps, guidebooks
[ ] Shirts/sweaters
[ ] Cash/foreign currency
[ ] Undergarments
[ ] Credit, debit cards
[ ] Socks
[ ] Passport
[ ] Pajamas
[ ] Drivers’ license
40 WEDDING PLANNER | 2015
[ ] Head table [ ] Linens [ ] China [ ] Stemware [ ] Glassware [ ] Flowers [ ] Cake [ ] Cake knife [ ] Cake table [ ] Guest book table [ ] Gift table [ ] Stage [ ] Sound system [ ] Piano [ ] Bar [ ] Bartender [ ] Decorations [ ] Clean-up [ ] Champagne [ ] Parking [ ] Taxes/gratuity [ ] Receiving line area
Wedding checklist
CLOTHING
BRIDE Gown Headpiece/veil Shoes Accessories BRIDEMAIDS [ ] Dresses [ ] Shoes [ ] Accessories GROOM/GROOMSMEN [ ] Formalwear [ ] Shoes [ ] Accessories OTHERS [ ] Flower girls’ dresses [ ] Ring bearer’s suit [ ] Mothers’ dresses [ [ [ [
] ] ] ]
PRINTING
[ ] Invitations [ ] Save-the-date cards [ ] Thank-you cards [ ] Stationary [ ] Wedding programs [ ] Napkins [ ] RSVP cards [ ] Wedding favors [ ] Place cards [ ] Directions
FLORAL
[ ] Bride’s bouquet [ ] Bride’s tossing bouquet
[ ] Bridemaids’ bouquets [ ] Flower girls’ baskets [ ] Floral headpieces [ ] Hostess’ flowers [ ] Mothers’ and grandmothers’ corsages [ ] Groom’s boutonniere [ ] Fathers’ and grandfathers’ boutonnières [ ] Groomsmen’s and ushers’ boutonnières [ ] Ring bearer’s pillow [ ] Altar or chuppah flowers [ ] Aisle/pew decorations [ ] Reception room flowers [ ] Head table centerpiece [ ] Guest table centerpieces [ ] Cake and buffet table decor [ ] Miscellaneous (aisle runner, candles, etc)
PHOTOGRAPHY
[ ] Bride dressing for the ceremony [ ] Bride, full-length solo
Rehearsal Dinners Weddings
[ ] Bride with parents [ ] Bride with mother and father separately [ ] Bride with sisters and brothers [ ] Bride with maid/ matron of honor [ ] Bride with bridesmaids [ ] Bride with flower girl, ring bearer [ ] Garter belt being put on [ ] Groom dressing for the ceremony [ ] Groom, full-length solo [ ] Groom with parents [ ] Groom with mother and father separately [ ] Groom with sisters and brothers [ ] Groom with best man [ ] Groom with groomsmen [ ] Parents being seated [ ] Bridesmaids walking down aisle [ ] Flower girl, ring bearer walking down aisle [ ] Bride and father walking down aisle [ ] Father giving bride’s hand
Receptions Engagement Parties
[ [ [ [ [
] ] ] ] ]
[] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] []
to groom Exchanging of vows Ring ceremony The kiss Recessional Formal bride and groom together Newlyweds and parents Newlyweds and entire bridal party Newlyweds with officiant Close up of rings Wedding cake Couple cutting/ eating cake Best man toasting couple Newlyweds’ toast Couple’s first dance Father’s dance with daughter Wedding party dancing Decorating of couple’s car Bride tossing bouquet Groom removing/ tossing garter Guests throwing rice/blowing bubbles Newlyweds getting in car Post-reception party
Personalized Menus Cateringg available for small parties of 10+ to large events of 1000 or more WEDDING PLANNER | 2015 41
Attendants’ checklist
BRIDESMAIDS AND GROOMSMEN
[ ] Complete fittings of gowns or suits. Pay for attire. [ ] Assist in all pre-wedding festivities. [ ] Attend pre-wedding parties. [ ] Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. [ ] Perform tasks assigned by the bride or groom. [ ] Fill cups with confetti, rice or rose petals to throw for the getaway. [ ] Decorate the car.
USHERS/ATTENDANTS
[ ] Pay for own wedding attire. [ ] Involved in all ceremony festivities. [ ] Make sure principals have flowers before being seated. [ ] Distribute wedding programs. [ ] Greet guests at ceremony and seat them accordingly. Bride’s family and friends sit on the left side of the aisle, and groom’s guests sit on the right. [ ] When all guests are seated, unroll aisle carpet (usually after bride’s mother is seated). [ ] Responsible for rolling the aisle runner back up after 42 WEDDING WEDDING PLANNER || 2014 42 2015 2013 42 WEDDING PLANNER PLANNER | January
ceremony. [ ] Check wedding venue for any items left behind. [ ] Transport gifts from wedding site to reception.
MAID OR MATRON OF HONOR
[ ] Responsible for her own gown and accessories. Pay for her own wedding attire. [ ] Organize bridesmaids’ fittings and details. [ ] Attend all pre-wedding parties. [ ] Help arrange/host bridal shower. [ ] Arrange bridal bachelorette party or lunch. [ ] Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. [ ] Keep record of shower and wedding gifts. [ ] Take charge of groom’s ring during ceremony. [ ] Act as official witness and sign wedding certificate. [ ] Help bridesmaids on wedding day. [ ] Rearrange train before recessional. [ ] Hold bride’s bouquet and gloves during ceremony. [ ] Care for bride’s things at cere-
mony and reception. [ ] Assist bride in changing from wedding dress to going-away attire. [ ] Deliver bride’s gown to designated place after the wedding.
BEST MAN
[ ] Responsible for his tuxedo. Pay for own attire. [ ] Arrange groom’s bachelor party. [ ] In charge of groom’s arrival at church. [ ] Supervise groomsmen regarding their dress and duties at ceremony. [ ] See that ushers’ duties run smoothly. [ ] Sign and witness the marriage certificate. [ ] Give first toast and special speeches at reception. [ ] Keep rings, license and honeymoon tickets in a safe place. [ ] Act as toastmaster at bridal table. [ ] Plan for transportation from the reception. [ ] Return groom’s tuxedo to rental shop.
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