Bridal - Fall 2017 by Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

Engagement ring buyer’s guide W

edding planning often begins moments after couples get engaged. Once a ring is presented, a new chapter in a relationship is born. While couples remember the sentiments and the style of their engagements forever, the engagement ring serves as the lasting symbol of that momentous occasion. Choosing the right engagement ring is complicated. Such a decision involves knowing what a future spouse desires in a ring and balancing those desires with budget. Shopping for an engagement ring can be both nerve-wracking and exciting. But there are ways to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Listen carefully anytime jewelry is discussed. Getting an idea of which style of jewelry the love of your life prefers requires keeping your eyes and ears open anytime jewelry is mentioned. Subtle hints may be dropped and pages to magazines may be folded back to provide a nudge in the right direction. It’s also perfectly fine to ask for your future spouse’s input, particularly if you’ve already spoken about marriage and know that an engagement is on the horizon. Have a good idea on the shape of the stone. All gemstones need to be cut in particular ways so that they reflect light and sparkle. Stones are also cut in specific shapes that provide the overall form of the stone. These include round, princess, emerald, oval, marquise, and pear, among others. Many people have distinct preferences when it comes to the shape of the ring. Keep in mind that some shapes are more common than others and some may be more expensive as well. According to Long’s Fine Jewelers, round cut diamonds are the most popular today and also some of the most expensive.

Marquise and oval also tend to be pricey. Princess and emerald cut diamonds may be more affordable, offers Genesis Diamonds. Know all the specs. Buying an engagement ring means being armed with a lot of knowledge. In addition to shape, there are the four Cs to consider. These refer to the stone’s cut, carat, clarity, and color, and will determine the financial value of the gemstone. Take some time to learn about each of the four Cs so you can make a more

informed decision when visiting the jeweler. Shop around. Not all jewelers are the same, and you want to find one with whom you feel comfortable and believe you will get the best value for your money. Believe it or not, you can purchase the ring in two parts — opting to shop for a setting from one place and a stone from another. Jewelers will often do whatever is necessary to make their customers happy, so don’t be afraid to ask for customization.

Engagement ring buyers may also want to consider gemstones other than diamonds. Buyers also must know their beloved’s ring size before buying the ring. Brilliant Earth jewelry says 6 to 6.5 are the most common ring sizes. When shoppers are prepared, the engagement ring-buying process is that much easier.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Wedding website dos and don’ts

echnology continues to infiltrate all areas of life. So it should come as no surprise that apps and digital organization play a prominent role in many couples’ weddings. Couples may now feel it is necessary to design a wedding website to keep their guests up-to-date.

Though they’re useful when planning a wedding, websites are not a must-have, according to bridal etiquette experts. However, those who choose to delve into the world of wedding websites can keep these pointers in mind when navigating.

DO use the wedding website as a central hub for putting pertinent information about the wedding that may not be covered on invitations or save-the-date cards.

DON’T ignore the potential for identity theft and privacy. Wedding

websites can put quite a deal of personal information out for public consumption. Not only will the website advertise when the wedding takes place (when your home and the homes of all your guests will be empty), but also it could include birthdays, maiden names, and other information that would normally be more difficult to track down. DO use a wedding website provider that gives you the option to password protect your website. Urge guests not to share this protected information with others. DON’T caption engagement photos, bachelorette party photos and more with dates and names on the wedding website and on other social media. DO skip the wedding website if you are strongly opposed to it. When properly composed, a wedding

invitation will convey all the pertinent details. A group email or phone calls can alert guests to any changes after the fact.

table seating arrangement online. This will help you stay more organized and streamlined.

Wedding websites are yet another DON’T forget to link to gift registries. tool couples can use to stay organized as they plan their DO use the wedding website to weddings. collect responses and then make a

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Bridal - Fall 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

Get married to the idea of Employ helping hands hiring a wedding planner during wedding planning

ouples see their weddings as not only the start of a new life together, but also as one of the most important organizational jobs they may ever encounter. Looking at weddings in the latter light makes it easy to see why many couples hire professional wedding planners. Many couples initially eschew the idea of hiring wedding planners. But when it comes to wedding expertise, professional planners can guide couples in all the right directions — ultimately helping them save money overall. Expertise is not the only advantage to hiring a wedding planner. These people are often skilled at negotiations and can serve as buffers between couples and vendors. Brides and grooms also can rely on wedding planners to avoid to succumbing to the stress of planning their weddings. The following are some other reasons why hiring a wedding planner can be a smart move. Planners handle the not-so-fun parts. Trying cake flavors and picking out bouquet colors might be exciting, but figuring out how many tipsy wedding guests can fit in a shuttle bus back to a hotel may not. Wedding planners can step in when necessary to handle the more mundane tasks, like organizing receipts or putting together guest toiletry baskets.

can investigate all vendors and be in charge of getting them paid on time. Planners also can keep track of upcoming deadlines, ensuring that all parties arrive on time to rehearsals, fittings, appointments, and, of course, the wedding. Planners can help establish a budget. Wedding planners can assist couples in developing their wedding budgets. Because they know how much many services cost, planners can provide accurate estimates on wedding bills and how to allocate funds.

Planners can free up time. When Planners may be privy to discounts. couples are not bogged down with Some planners may have longrunning errands or scheduling every lasting professional relationships detail of the wedding, they can enjoy the time leading up to their with vendors, and these weddings even more. That means relationships may help couples get more time can be spent planning better prices on certain services. the honeymoon. Planners also have the expertise to advise on which purchases are Weddings are multifaceted events smart and which may be that require substantial forethought. unnecessary. Wedding planners help keep Properly vet vendors and stay on top of deadlines. Wedding planners

couples on task, on budget and less stressed.

ccepting the honor of being in a friend or family member’s wedding means more than dressing in the fancy clothing and showing up on the designated date. The wedding party — particularly the bridesmaids and groomsmen — should understand that standing alongside the happy couple generally means doing some work during the planning period as well as on the big day. It’s the wise wedding couple who can recognize the strengths of their family and friends and put those attributes to work in productive ways. thank-you notes can be sent. According to The Knot.com, the Make wardrobe suggestions. average wedding party includes Couples can rely on their most four people on each side. That honest bridal party members when means eight extra people who can picking out wedding attire. These lend their eyes, ears and hands to no-holds-barred individuals can set the bounty of tasks that comprise them straight on fit, look and the wedding planning to-do list. comfort. Trust these people in Here’s how to delegate with flair. helping to make the entire wedding Ask and ye shall receive. First off, it party look stylish and feel confident. is never safe to assume that the wedding party will be taking on Extend the host/hostess duties. It extra work. Even if tradition can be tiring for couples to tend to suggests wedding party members the needs of all their wedding lend a hand, it’s in the best interest guests. Couples can enlist the help of the couple to graciously ask for of their wedding party to ensure help. This helps establish good will that elderly or disabled guests get the assistance they need. The at the start. wedding party can also step up to Be specific when assigning tasks. serve as stand-in dance partners or Rather than just asking for generalized help, make a list of the to help grab drinks or escort people as needed. tasks that seem the most challenging and then delegate accordingly. If a member of the bridal party is excellent at getting travel deals, have him or her help arrange the honeymoon. Someone with an intimate knowledge of cuisine can come along to food tastings and help plan the reception menu. Friends with a flair for organization can be in charge of disseminating information to the entire wedding party or keeping a running list of gifts given at various parties so

Get the party started. Couples can usually count on their wedding parties to help fill the dance floor at the wedding reception — even when others have not yet built up the courage to showcase their dancing skills. Those bold and loveable friends and family members will help keep the energy up and make the wedding a blast. Planning and hosting a wedding is a large undertaking. With the help of the wedding party, it can be that much more enjoyable.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Get a grip on your guest list

ooperation is key for couples planning their weddings. Compiling the guest list is one area of wedding planning where couples oftentimes must embrace both cooperation and compromise. Putting together a wedding guest list can cause some tension. That tension may be confined to couples, but it may even occur between couples and their families. Getting a grip on their guest lists may be one of the more difficult tasks couples encounter when planning their weddings, but there are ways to make creating the guest list go smoothly.

Recognize the need to compromise. Couples who recognize the need to compromise in advance of compiling their guest lists may find it easier to pare down that list if the initial number of guests is too high. Couples can create lists of people they want to invite, breaking these initial lists down into categories such as “friends,” “family,” “acquaintances,” and “coworkers.” Couples may not want to compromise on inviting friends and family, but each person should be willing to remove some coworkers and acquaintances from their final lists.

Don’t succumb to parental pressure if mom and dad are not paying the bills. Couples who are financing their own weddings should not feel beholden to their parents’ wishes when compiling their wedding guest lists. Politely explain to parents you’re working on a budget and that you have a predetermined number of guests you’re capable of inviting. Couples can appease their parents by encouraging them to compile a list of people they hope to invite, and then telling them these people will be invited if other guests are unable to make it. Couples whose parents are footing some or all of the bill must be more receptive to their parents’ wishes than those paying for their own weddings. Agree on a kids policy. A policy regarding kids may help couples as they create their guest lists. Couples working with tight budgets may decide that the only children who will be invited are their nieces and nephews. Young cousins likely won’t feel slighted if they don’t make the cut, and their parents may even appreciate a night out without the kids in tow. Employ the “future versus past” formula when paring gets tough. When all else has failed,

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Factors to consider before choosing a wedding venue

nce couples become engaged and share the good news with their friends and families, the next step is to begin planning their weddings. While couples must make a myriad of decisions during the wedding planning process, perhaps none is more significant than where to tie the knot. According to The Knot 2016 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding for couples who married in 2016 was $35,329. That’s a sizable amount, and a big portion of that was spent on the wedding venue. The Real Weddings Study found that couples spent an average of $16,107 on their wedding venues in 2016. That figure easily dwarfs the next biggest expense ($6,163 for the engagement ring) for couples tying the knot. Because the wedding venue comes with such a potentially high sticker price, couples should give ample consideration to a host of factors before choosing where to get married.

Size Until they can agree on a guest list, couples might want to delay even looking for venues. However, some couples might want to first look at some venues so they can determine just how many guests they can afford to invite. Whether they’re hosting small affairs or large parties, couples should choose venues that can comfortably accommodate all of their guests. If possible, look for venues with multiple reception areas, which might allow for some wiggle room if the guest list grows or dwindles during the planning process. Availability Some couples might have an ideal time of year they hope to get married. Some even know the exact date they hope to get married. While that can help with the planning, it can also limit couples with regard to their venue options. Some venues may be booked for as much as a year or more in advance during peak wedding season. The Real Weddings Study found that the most popular months to get married in 2016 were October and September. Couples who hope to follow in the footsteps of many 2016 brides and grooms may need to book their wedding venues well in advance. Those who can be more flexible regarding their

wedding dates may find it easier to book their dream venues. Insurance Ask about the venue’s insurance policies, including the policies the venue has to protect itself. In addition, ask if the venue requires couples to have their own wedding liability insurance for protection in the event of injury, property damage or incidents related to alcohol. Couples may also want to make the investment in cancellation/postponement insurance, and some venues may even require it. Financials It’s easy for couples to be focused on the bottom line when choosing wedding venues, but it’s also important that they get a complete grasp of the financials before choosing a wedding venue. Ask about the amount of the initial deposit and if that deposit is refundable. In addition, ask when the deposit is due and when each subsequent payment is due until the balance is paid in full. This can make budgeting easier and planning less stressful. Couples should have fun choosing their wedding venues while recognizing that certain factors must be given ample consideration before signing any contracts.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

The steps involved in securing wedding venues, licenses

etting married is an exciting time in a couple’s life together. Wedding planning is the next logical step after the engagement announcement, and while couples often get swept up in planning their dream parties, it’s important to note that ultimately the ceremony is the star of the day. Before booking a wedding reception venue or getting one’s heart set on a particular date, couples need to secure their ceremony sites as well as apply for a marriage license. In some instances, ceremonies are held at the same site as the wedding reception, while some couples choose to tie the knot in their church or synagogue. Each of these types of ceremonies will be governed by the schedule of the house of worship or civil site. Finding a venue Once couples choose a wedding date, it is a good idea for them to visit their ceremony site of choice to check the calendar. It helps to have some flexibility in the wedding date in case the first choice is unavailable. Although summer weddings used to be the most popular, today’s couples are tying the knot more often in September and October than other times of year. Even though a couple’s wedding is special and unique to them, ceremony locations handle hundreds of weddings. Couples must recognize that competition for certain venues may be steep, so it helps to keep more than one venue in mind when planning a wedding. Getting a marriage license While laws may vary from state to state within the United States, getting a marriage license generally involves filling out the application and

paying a fee at the county clerk’s office. Both applicants are typically required to bring identification, such as a driver’s license, passport or birth certificate. There may be a waiting period between submitting the application and the license being issued. Couples can pick up the license or have it mailed to them.

it is issued.

Canadian requirements vary by province. For example, in Ontario, applicants need to be at least 16 years old to marry and must show two forms of government-supplied identification to apply. The license is valid for 90 days from when

Getting married is a multistep process that begins with determining where the ceremony will take place and acquiring a marriage license. With these items in check, couples can focus on creating memorable wedding days.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Embracing an ethnic wedding

ouples are more culturally diverse than ever before. Engaged couples are embracing that diversity by incorporating elements of their heritage into their ceremonies. Global-infused details are a growing trend in ceremonies and receptions. Multicultural touches can help make weddings unique. Traditional dress With many countries embracing the tradition of wearing “wedding white,” couples are once again tapping into ethnic dress to add that wow factor to their weddings. Fashion can impart elements that borrow from ancestral homelands and tried-and-true wedding tradition. Distinct attire, such as sarees, kimonos, khmers, and kilts, may be center stage at ceremonies and receptions. Some couples opt to have a change of clothes so they can wear traditional dress for the ceremony and wedding gowns and tuxedos for the reception.

Couples can even increase the fun factor by incorporating ethnic dance customs and music into their playlists. If budget allows, hire a dance troupe to guide guests on the proper steps. Otherwise, ask the band or DJ to play the music that inspires the tarantella, salsa or Bollywood moves and learn as you go. Ethnic cuisine

According to New Jersey Bride magazine, today’s millennials have In addition to a band or DJ, couples long been exposed to multicultural may want to incorporate some sort cuisine and have exotic palates. Food can reflect the couple’s culture of ethnic entertainment into the or simply harken to cuisine they festivities. Caribbean couples may enjoy the most. The New York Times want a steel drum band. Japanese weddings may be enhanced with the predicted that food inspired by addition of a Taiko group that Africa and the Philippines is hot for showcases the art of ensemble 2017, so couples may want to opt for drumming. Although bagpipes are flavors from these areas of the often associated with Irish or world. Scottish heritage, they’re included in When exotic offerings are presented, folk music from different regions of it can be a good idea to also have Europe, Africa and the Persian Gulf some traditional wedding foods so as well. less adventurous guests have options. Multicultural dance Couples planning to incorporate Ethnic entertainment

Some of the most entertaining parts of a wedding involve dancing. With the right music and a few cocktails guests’ inhibitions may relax.

multicultural elements into their weddings will need to find a ceremony and reception site that can accommodate those needs.

Bridal - Fall 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

How to host a casual wedding

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eddings tend to be formal affairs, but there are no laws prohibiting happy couples from hosting more casual affairs. In fact, many couples confronted with the rising costs of tying the knot are doing just that. According to The Knot 2016 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2016 exceeded $35,000, and that price tag does not even include couples’ honeymoons. Some couples may not have the means to finance such lavish affairs, while others may want to save for larger expenses, such as a house, while still being able to celebrate their nuptials with family and friends. Casual weddings can provide that opportunity. However, while casual weddings are less formal, couples will still need to keep some things in mind to make their ceremonies and receptions both fun and memorable.

Create your own traditions. Embracing some tradition does not mean couples cannot simultaneously create their own wedding traditions. Guests at casual weddings will likely be expecting something different than they’re used to, so couples should not hesitate to provide that. Couples should strive to keep things tasteful but not shy away from unique ideas Let guests know the wedding will be that fit into the casual theme. casual. Perhaps the most important Plan to feed guests. While couples thing couples can do when hosting a having casual weddings may choose to have their receptions somewhere casual wedding is inform their other than banquet halls, they guests that the ceremony and reception will not be formal affairs. should still plan to feed their guests. Some guests may be traveling and Be as specific as possible regarding staying in hotels to attend the the dress code so guests don’t feel wedding, and it’s a nice gesture to embarrassed if they overdress. show appreciation for their efforts Don’t abandon tradition entirely. by providing them with a meal. A Couples hosting casual weddings meal also offers a great chance for may not feel beholden to all the guests to mingle with the married traditions associated with more couple and fellow guests. Something formal affairs, but that does not simple like a backyard barbecue or a mean tradition should be catered meal at home fits nicely with abandoned entirely. For example, a casual setting. fathers-of-the-bride may still hope Don’t overlook logistics. Small to share a spotlight dance with their details, like transportation, parking daughters, while siblings or friends and lodging will still need to be may still hope to serve as arranged. If hosting guests at home bridesmaids or groomsmen. Just after the ceremony, make sure because a wedding is less formal guests will have ample places to does not mean it has to be park their vehicles. In addition, completely void of tradition, make the same efforts regarding especially those traditions that can lodging for guests that you would if let couples’ closest loved ones know planning a formal wedding, as outhow much they are loved and of-town guests will still need a place appreciated. to sleep.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Did you know?

ood can make or break a wedding reception. Couples researching potential reception sites for their parties should be sure to schedule tastings and confirm how the foods will look upon being served. In addition to the taste of the food, couples may want to consider which menu items are offered — particularly those that align with the latest trends in wedding reception catering. Based on data compiled by The Knot, She Knows, Delish, and various food bloggers, the following food trends are worthy of notice. • Food stations: Food stations encourage interaction between a chef/server and the guests. Food stations can include a ceviche bar, fondue cart, quesadilla maker, or custom sliders station. • Colorful foods: Guests are often first tempted by the appearance of foods, and bold colors can set dishes apart. • Brunch items: Recognizing that

daytime weddings can be much less expensive than evening affairs, couples may want to have brunchthemed weddings, featuring omelets, pancakes, French toast, and other tasty breakfast foods. • Fancier “ordinary” fare: Although chicken fingers and meatballs aren’t normally given gourmet status, they can be dressed up and repackaged for weddings. Whole-grain breadings, Kobe beef meatballs and Asian dipping sauces give foods some flair. • Family feel: Some weddings are now served “family style” where guests can share from larger passed plates. This serves to connect everyone at the table and encourages conversation, helping to establish a warm atmosphere. • Food trucks: Trendy couples can treat guests to another special component toward the end of the reception. A takeout style food truck order can serve as a fourth or fifth course.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Tux-renting basics B

rides-to-be may invest thousands of dollars into their wedding day ensembles. Online wedding resource The Knot says that the average cost for a wedding dress is $1,469. Grooms generally have a much easier and less expensive experience with their wedding day attire. In fact, grooms often rent their tuxedos for minimal cost. Renting a wedding tuxedo has its advantages, namely in the cost savings. However, it’s easy for a guy to fall into the trap of renting something that will not help him look his best if he isn’t educated about the process. Looking sharp involves a little more than just showing up to the shop and picking a tux off the rack. Choose your retailer wisely Many stores sell or rent suits and tuxedos. As is the case with many aspects of wedding planning, getting a recommendation

from friends or family members can help grooms identify the shops that offer exemplary service. When attending others’ weddings or special events, pay attention to the look of the groom and his groomsmen. Find out where they got their tuxes. Price alone should not dictate where to shop. Once bridesmaid dresses have been selected, the groomsmen can begin to shop around for tuxedoes. This way ties and vests will coordinate. Initial tux selection should begin between four and six months before the wedding.

when arms are at the sides. An ill-fitting suit or tux can make a gentleman look sloppy. It is key to pay attention to sizing and use a shop that has a variety of styles that fit various body types. Choose a classic style No one wants to look outdated in their wedding pictures. By choosing a classic cut and color in a suit or tux, guys will look stylish no matter the year. Fun can be had with vest colors or bow ties. Confirm the order

The entire wedding party can visit the tuxedo shop for selections and fittings. The groom should call the store at least a month prior to the wedding to ensure that everyone has been fitted. Tuxes should be picked up a few days in advance of the Get a proper fitting The experts at Men’s Wearhouse say that it wedding and tried on to ensure that everything fits and all accessories are is important to be fitted for a tux or suit included. This way last-minute alterations properly. Their professionals can handle or substitutions can be made. the measurements, or men shopping elsewhere can use a tailor of their Grooms and groomsmen can look dapper choosing. Shoulders should be close to by selecting a classic suit or tuxedo, the body in the jacket but not restrictive. having it properly fitted and confirming Sleeves should fall so that they show a that all wardrobe components are ready to quarter- to a half-inch of shirt sleeves go in time for the big day.

Say ‘sew long’ to ill-fitting wedding clothing crucial, and these guidelines can facilitate the process of wedding alterations.

which fabrics are used in the gown or suit, which types of alterations are requested (minor tweaks or a major overhaul), proximity to the wedding Length of time date, and even geographical location. It’s difficult to say how long Brides also can add straps, beading, alterations will take, as it depends on lace, or other detailing, but it will the extent of the work and how busy affect the cost. the seamstress or tailor is. And until Whom to choose the alterations have begun, Many bridal salons and formalwear seamstresses and tailors may not know how long the job will take. The retailers will have someone on staff who can handle alterations. If a store bridal resource The Knot advises doesn’t have a tailor or seamstress, or allowing between two and three Proper fit can be as important as the months from a first fitting to the last if this person isn’t able to provide gown or suit. Although some couples as an ideal timeline to make all of the what is needed, take clothing to a will spend thousands of dollars on alterations. For complicated gowns, professional who specializes in wedding attire, many will not brides or bridal party members may wedding wear. Gowns can be research the person to handle any complex, with wedding gowns need three or four fittings, with the necessary alterations. Few, if any, last occurring a few weeks before the featuring bustles, intricate hems, wedding ensembles can be boning, beading, and much more, so wedding. purchased right off the rack and try to work with experienced worn without custom tailoring. The Alteration costs professionals who have seen it all. scope of the alterations will depend Cost alone should not dictate where Ask friends and family for recomon the desired changes and how well to go for alterations. The costs can mendations, or find out if wedding the clothing initially fits. Timing is include many factors, including planners or retailers who sold you

eamstresses and tailors are sometimes the unsung heroes of weddings. These individuals often work tirelessly under pressure to ensure that tuxes are taken in at the right places and that gowns are hemmed to perfection. People may underestimate the importance of good wedding ensemble alterations, but having someone whose skilled with a needle and thread is essential to looking your best on such a momentous day.

the dress recommend anyone. When attending a fitting, bring along the shoes and undergarments that will be worn on the wedding day so the fit can be matched accordingly. Also take one friend or family member who can offer an extra opinion on how the clothing falls and fits. Brides may want to bring a maid-(matron)-of-honor if she needs to learn how to bustle a gown. Skilled tailors or seamstresses help couples look their best on their wedding days, and finding reliable professionals should be part of wedding planning.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Unique groomsmen gift ideas

eddings are steeped in tradition, and one of the more enjoyable ones is the custom of gifting members of the bridal party. With regard to picking out tuxedos and planning the wedding, grooms may not spend as much time with their groomsmen as brides do with their bridesmaids. But that does not mean grooms don’t want to go above and beyond when gifting their groomsmen. The following are a handful of unique groomsmen gift ideas.

Guys’ day out: While it’s customary to gift groomsmen with mementos of the wedding that they can keep for years to come, there’s no law forbidding grooms from gifting an experience. Grooms can book a guys’ day or night out for after the wedding, buying each groomsmen a ticket to a ballgame and paying for dinner for the whole crew. Or consider a more adventurous outing, such as a group bungee jump or whitewater rafting trip. Provide a memento by ordering a handful of specially designed commemorative T-shirts.

Commemorative photo: Many grooms ask

relatives and friends they have known for much of their lives to be their groomsmen. So it’s not uncommon for groomsmen to know each other very well. If each member of the party has known one another for years, grooms can try to find a photo of all of them together when they were much younger. Have the photo professionally framed, noting the date of the wedding with an engraving on the frame. If each groomsman is from a different period in the groom’s life, then the groom can find a photo from early in each relationship to present as a gift. Commemorative beer: Many grooms and groomsmen bond over beer, so grooms who have raised many a pint with their groomsmen might want to create their own commemorative beers to show their love and appreciation for their best guy friends. Many craft breweries offer brewing classes that teach beer afficionados the finer points of making beer. Grooms can attend such classes on their own and create their own batch specifically for their

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groomsmen or pay for the whole group to attend the class together. Movie poster: Grooms with a creative side and a love of movies can create movie posters that mimic those of iconic guy films like “Goodfellas” or “Animal House,” swapping out images of the film’s stars with likenesses of themselves and their groomsmen. Have the finished products framed before presenting one to each groomsman.

Tips for planning the perfect honeymoon

honeymoons well in advance of their wedding days. Fifteen months affords couples the chance to piece together the perfect honeymoon on their own or shop around for package deals.

others might offer free room upgrades if they have any vacancies. Such amenities may be grand or small, but no matter their size, they can make honeymoons feel more special.

Delay the honeymoon. Couples without much wiggle room in their budgets or those who simply want If the average spending on to save money can delay their honeymoons seems high, it’s honeymoons, choosing to take their important for couples working on getaways months after they tie the budgets to realize that there are knot. This provides couples with plenty of ways to plan memorable more traveling flexibility. And getaways without breaking the bank. depending on when couples get Couples can keep the following married, delaying the honeymoon strategies in mind as they plan their may push the trip into the honeymoons. vacationing off-season, when more Plan and book early. In its 2016 Real affordable deals can often be found. Weddings Study, online wedding Don’t shy away from your resource The Knot found that the newlywed status. Resorts might not average engagement length was 15 advertise it, but many offer special months. That gives couples plenty of amenities to honeymooning time to plan their weddings, but also newlyweds. Some may provide a great chance to book their complementary spa services, while

Give ample consideration to allinclusive honeymoon packages. Whether couples are working on tight budgets or planning their honeymoons without regard to cost, all-inclusive packages may be worth the extra money upfront. Allinclusive packages tend to include meals, some beverages and fun activities that couples would otherwise have to pay for á la carte. All-inclusive packages may also remove some of the work of planning the honeymoon because couples won’t need to tirelessly research activities and find the most affordable local vendors. Couples can examine the nuts and bolts of all-inclusive packages to make sure

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

oneymoons are big business. According to a recent Conde Nast Bridal Infobank survey, the average couple spends more than $5,000 on their honeymoon, indicating just how much meaning couples assign to their first official trip as newlyweds.

they include activities and foods they’re likely to enjoy. Planning a honeymoon takes work, but much of that work is fun, and couples who do their due diligence can save substantial amounts of money.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Men can get manicures for their wedding days, too variety of wedding day cosmetic preparations are geared toward the brideto-be. Gentlemen generally limit their wedding pampering to a haircut and possibly a self-tanning product to have a golden glow in their wedding photos.

achieve that. They’re also ideal for special occasions like weddings, when guys want to be groomed to perfection. GQ magazine advises that the occasional professional manicure can offer nice, even nails without out-of-control cuticles — no polish or gel tips necessary.

As social norms continue to relax and guys grow more comfortable and confident taking care of their skin, hair and bodies, the list of services men undergo in advance of special occasions may widen. One service that many men have already embraced is the manicure.

First-timers may be hesitant to give manicures a try. While salon services can differ, here’s what a typical manicure will entail.

Manicures neaten the fingernails and treat the skin and cuticles of the fingers and can be just as beneficial for men as women. In fact, malegeared hand and foot grooming have already sprouted a niche market, including the Hammer & Nails Grooming for Guys franchise that was featured on the popular show “Shark Tank.” Nail technicians can help guys achieve a clean look and alert men to possible underlying health issues present on their hands and feet. According to Dr. David E. Bank, a clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia Presbyterian Medical

• Nails are cut and filed. • Hands will be soaked in warm water and/or oil to soften skin and cuticles. • Cuticles are pushed back or trimmed. • Moisturizer may be applied, and hands are given a brief massage. Center, technicians are trained to recognize possible fungus and other infections within the nails.

• Clear polish can be used if desired. However, a thorough buffing also can create a healthy shine to the nail.

Depending on his profession, a man’s hands may be on display and the appearance of those hands can help close deals or present a more professional look. Manicures can help men

Men may want to visit nail salons during off-peak times if they are shy about requesting services. Otherwise, they can visit businesses that cater to men’s grooming.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Bridal - Fall 2017

Great wedding gift ideas any people rely on bridal registries when buying wedding gifts for their loved ones. But for those who put off buying wedding gifts until registries have been picked clean, finding the right gift can sometimes be difficult. Even if men and women do not intend to buy wedding gifts directly off a couple’s registry, it’s best to first visit that registry to ensure that the gift that is ultimately purchased is not a duplicate gift. Shoppers who do know what to get the happy couple can consider the following gift ideas.

replace luggage that’s bore the brunt of their globetrotting in recent years.

Luggage: Many couples put luggage on their wedding registries, so shoppers should double check before purchasing any luggage for the happy couple. Couples about to go on their honeymoons may love a new set of sturdy luggage for their travels, while others with a love of travel may appreciate being able to

Experience: Many people have embraced gifting an experience instead of an item to their loved ones. Some companies even facilitate such gifts to newlyweds. Websites like Traveler’s Joy allow couples to establish honeymoon registries, building them with activities and experiences they hope

Airline miles: Though it might be unconventional, gifting airline miles to the happy couple may save them hundreds of dollars. Men and women with ample airline miles should determine if their agreement allows them to transfer those miles to a loved one. If so, transferring the miles won’t cost the person doing the gifting any money out of pocket, but it can save couples substantial amounts of money on their next trip, including their honeymoon if they have yet to book one. to enjoy on their trips. Loved ones can then gift money toward those activities, providing a win-win situation for people who would prefer to gift an experience and ensuring couples’ honeymoons will be that much more memorable. Cash: Cash may seem impersonal, but couples tying the knot will no

doubt appreciate an infusion of cash after saying “I do.” According to The Knot, the average wedding cost more than $35,000 in 2016. Even couples whose parents foot the bill for their weddings will appreciate having some extra money on hand that they can use on their honeymoons or put toward a home.

The Wayside Inn Wayside Inn has a long-standing tradition of beautiful weddings, receptions, and rehearsal dinners. The Wayside Inn can accommodate up to 150 people at our beautiful historic location in Middletown, Virginia. Our inn has been serving the public over 200 years. Our very helpful staff includes an executive chef and an event coordinator who will work with your special requests and ideas. We have 20 distinctively decorated rooms and suites for your bridal party and out of town guests. Our restaurant and tavern serve anything from a formal sit-down dinner to a casual setting with a lighter fare. Please consider making an appointment to meet with the owners, George & Becky Reeves, our executive chef, Cheryl Jones, or our event coordinator, Tammy Keeler to discuss your special day and events. Please call (540) 869-1797.

Bridal - Fall 2017

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Did you know?

edding insurance can provide couples who are about to tie the knot with some peace of mind on their big days. Many wedding venues require couples carry liability coverage in the case of accidents, injuries or incidents. But wedding insurance policies may even surprise couples with regard to what they cover. Each policy is different, and couples may be able to customize wedding insurance policies to cover a host of items. Many policies cover couples in the wake of cancellations or postponements due to weather, damage to the facility or even a change of heart on the part of the couple holding the policy. But some policies may

provide coverage for couples should their photographers and/or caterers fail to appear. Policies may also cover lost, stolen or damaged items, including equipment rentals, bridal gowns, jewelry, and/or gifts. Couples should speak with their wedding venue representative to determine if the venue offers extended coverage and ultimately compare those offerings to policy estimates they receive on their own.

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Bridal - Fall 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily