The Northern Virginia Daily
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Tying the knot...creatively
By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily
Not everyone can say they’ve married a couple through Skype, but Mary Kim Waddell, marriage officiant, can. For over 14 years, Waddell has married couples all over the Northern Shenandoah Valley. She has a passion for love and the commitment it stands for.
“We had couples requesting to be married in our hot air balloons, but we didn’t offer the service,” Waddell said. “After doing some thinking and research, I became commissioned in the Commonwealth of Virginia as a wedding officiant and a pastor in West Virginia.”
And as they say, the rest is history.
Waddell’s journey to become a wedding officiant first started when she and her husband ran off to get married.
“The excitement we felt. The people we met. Those are the reasons I became an officiant,” she said. “The people I’ve met along the way and the stories they’ve shared with me are simply amazing. I have the opportunity to be part of something beautiful. I really just wanted to share in those exciting moments.”
Waddell admitted that she could never pick a favorite ceremony.
“They’re all unique and they all have something that makes them special. Not only to me, but to the couples. That in itself is good enough for me.”
Past weddings have led her to the tops of mountains, couple’s homes, and of course, hot air balloons. “I’ve done so many unique locations that they start to blur together,” she said. “But none the less, each and every location I’ve been to has been amazing in itself.” Waddell performs civil and religious ceremonies all over the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Her best form of marketing is word of mouth from not only past brides, but also local businesses that she meets and works with along the way. “It’s truly remarkable to see so many businesses come together to create such a special day,” she said. “We get to create this network of individuals and businesses that we can share with our couples.” When she’s not joining couples together through their marriage vows, she’s a teacher. She said that she finds a balance between the two easily because she enjoys them both equally.
“Whether it’s an elopement or an elaborate wedding, I get the best of everything; it’s that snip in time that people remember forever. And to be part of that, it’s such a blessing.
Did you know? Should a person hear that a couple “tied the knot,” it’s immediately known that they got married. But just when and where does the term “tying the knot” come from? The phrase “tying the knot” is steeped in tradition, though the origins of the phrase remain open for debate. One origin story states that tying the knot can be traced back to the Roman empire, when brides wore girdles that were tied in knots, and the groom had to eventually untie those knots to consummate the marriage. Tying the knot also may be traced to the custom of handfasting. The marriage contract was established between a bride and a groom by joining their hands together and tying them. Although accounts vary as to whether the hands were tied only during the ceremony or later, this is believed to be an ancient Renaissance or Celtic tradition. Others speculate that the phrase traces its origins to Hindu weddings in which brides and grooms tied a necklace of flowers as part of wedding tradition. Yet another theory suggests that the phrase can be traced back to the knotted string that supported beds prior to the use of metal springs. Therefore, in order to make a marriage bed, couples first needed to tie the knot. Knots also represent a difficult-to-break bond, which is why they have long been associated with marriage. In one unity tradition, couples may braid or knot together three strands, with one representing the bride, one symbolizing the groom and the third representing God as they join together in faith. Similarly, the phrase “getting hitched” is associated with knot-tying as well. The saying implies that two people are being tied together just like a horse is tied, or hitched, to a wagon.
Pricing is dependent on distance. Contact Waddell for more information at marykimweds@gmail.com or call 540-660-2509.
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The Northern Virginia Daily
A woman who takes (and makes) the cake
By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily When Jessica Hollifield, owner of Lemon Tulip Cakes, is not homeschooling her two children or running around chaotically in her flip flops nine months out of the year, she’s whipping up beautifully designed wedding cakes of all sizes, shapes and colors in her home-based kitchen in Strasburg. “I love weddings,” Hollifield said. “I love meeting with the couple and seeing their style and hearing their stories. I just love the whole process and seeing it all comes together to make the most special day.” For over 10 years, Hollifield has been sharing her love of wedding cakes with her customers all over the Shenandoah Courtesy Photo
Courtesy Photo/Emily Alyssa Photography
Valley. With a passion for baking, Hollifield said she originally wanted to create more of a cupcakery but after delivering a couple wedding cakes in her first year and seeing the beautiful venues the Valley had to offer, she quickly changed her jestic changing seasons into their wedfocus. dings is common. Hollifield said for the “I really do enjoy doing other events, but fall season, wedding cakes trends are weddings are really where my heart is,” leaning more towards natural cake deshe said. signs. From the initial meeting and tasting to “Not rustic, not naked,” she said. “A very set up, Hollifield said she enjoys it all. natural, greenery look. Simple and ele“I think it takes a certain kind of person gant.” to handle the stress of driving with someAs for colors and themes Hollifield said one’s wedding cake in the car,” she said. she’s seeing a lot of deep colors and flo“Especially on some of these mountain rals from her brides, mixed with tradiroads,” she added. tional buttercream work like piping, For many brides, incorporating the madrapery and cascading florals.
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Hollifield added that she likes working with both buttercream and fondant. But her specialty is clean lines. “They are hard to achieve and trying to keep up with the style trends, because they are always changing,” she said. “Once you master whatever the current trend is, it’s already on to the next.” Hollifield’s signature is her use of flavor. She said wedding cakes should not only be gorgeous and one of a kind but that they should be tasty. For her fall brides, Hollifield said she has traditional flavors
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but likes to incorporate seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice cake with spiced cream cheese filling and an apple cider cake with salted caramel buttercream.
When she first started in the cake industry, Hollifield admitted that she took on too many orders and fell out of her comfort zone.
“It showed,” she said. “It took a long time to learn not to take on too much for one weekend- being a one man show.”
Instead, Hollifield said she works with one to two cakes a weekend, allowing her to put her focus on what matters the most: quality over quantity.
“I love when I get clients through word of mouth from past clients,” said. “They always take the time to review my page and they come back again and again. I have had clients where I did their bridal shower, wedding, baby shower, first birthday and so on. It's just so special to know that they appreciate me like they do.”
Being a home-run business, Hollifield said while she finds her inspiration from fellow bakers, each and every cake she makes is one of a kind, adding that she is
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always taking classes to learn the latest cake trends. “I want each cake to be an edible work of art, not just a quick cake you can get anywhere.” And she’s certainly achieved that success. As for pricing Hollifield said she believes its an incentive in itself. She charges for the amount of time she puts in and good quality ingredients.
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Wagon Wheel Ranch combines grandeur, intimacy
By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily
Wagon Wheel Ranch nestled outside of Stephens City creates the same grandeur of a large wedding venue with the same special details any bride or groom would want to create the perfect intimate atmosphere for their big day but on a smaller scale. Instead of inviting 200 guests, Wagon Wheel Ranch accommodates a maximum of 10 guests, making it the perfect location for those near and dear to the couple’s hearts.
Nancy Hart Schrock, civil wedding officiant and photographer, said she feels like now more than ever, when it comes to wedding planning, many couples agree that size matters. Fewer attendees can mean a more personable celebration for all those involved.
The ceremony site itself is a restored cabin that overlooks the horse and cow pastures, with the mountains in the distance. Broken into a large reception or ceremony hall, dressing room and kitchen, the cabin itself tells its own story though various pictures and art work, including quilts, hanging on the walls. Past couples have shared with Schrock that the intimate atmosphere is what sold them on the venue. The breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains was runner up. “Couples are looking for those non-traditional venues to create a more unique and special experience,” Schrock said. “Because they’re realizing that they can spend the money on things that perhaps mean more to them.”
Larger receptions, extended honeymoons and first homes were just a few of the ex“Planning a big wedding can be extremely amples Schrock shared. overwhelming, no matter the size,” Schrock added: “Sometimes the couple Schrock said. “Here at Wagon Wheel simply doesn’t have the money to spend Ranch, while we offer an intimate setting, on an elaborate wedding. That shouldn’t we want couples to feel comfortable in deter them from saying I-do.” their own skin. And if that means you Benefits of wedding ceremonies or elopecome as you are, then so be it.” ments at Wagon Wheel Ranch include Wagon Wheel Ranch offers three packages same day service, marriage commission for its couples. A “Rancher’s Ceremony” on site, professional photographer onsite, up to 10 people, including the couple and allows the couple to experience an oldcustom collections to meet the couple’s fashioned wedding ceremony performed on the ranch for $125. The “Pioneer Cere- needs. “Marriage is so much more than the mony” allows the couple to experience venue,” she said. “It really comes down to their special day in costume with their the couple themselves and the story they choice of western accessories for $150. want to share with their loved ones.” And the “Saddle Up Ceremony” includes all of the above, along with two ranch Ready to get hitched? Contact Nancy at horses to use for the ceremony and/or cedargrovephoto@gmail.com or pictures. 540-336-8713
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The 4 Cs of diamonds Diamonds are the stone of choice for engagement rings and wedding jewelry. Diamonds are durable and remain a timeless way to complement every style. Anyone who is about to purchase a diamond is encouraged to do their research about selecting quality diamonds. At the heart of the diamond grading process are the 4 Cs of diamond quality. The Cs refer to carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and cut grade. The Gemological Institute of America helped to create the Diamond 4 Cs and the International Diamond Grading System™. These benchmarks are used to classify all diamonds. The following is the GIA’s explanation of each component of the system.
Carat: Diamond carat weight is the measurement of how much the diamond weighs and is equivalent to 200 milligrams per carat. Each carat is subdivided into 100 points. Therefore, a one-carat diamond is 1.00 or 100 points, while a twenty-five point diamond is .25 carats. Naturally, larger diamonds can be more rare and desirable.
Color: A white diamond is more valuable
the less color it contains. GIA uses a Dto-Z grading system to determine a diamond’s color value. D would be a colorless diamond and Z the most saturated with color. Clarity: Diamonds are formed by carbon exposed to heat and pressure. Natural internal characteristics known as inclusions and external components called blemishes are the norm. The closer the gem comes to being perfectly pure without inclusions or blemishes, the greater the value. Cut: To transmit light and sparkle, diamonds have to be cut precisely and with great artistry. A diamond will be further graded based on symmetry and proportions, as well as how the stone returns light. Brightness, which is the internal and external white light reflected; fire, or the scattering of white light into rainbow colors; and scintillation, or the sparkle the diamond produces, are factored into how the cut is valued. Diamonds are a major investment. Consumers who do their research and verify diamond grading can get the best value for their money.
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The Northern Virginia Daily
Shopping for‘The’ Dress
Courtesy Photo
By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily
When Fall Bridal Fashion Week wrapped up, Morgan Lee Beachler, owner of The Valley Bride in Winchester, knew it was going to be a dazzling upcoming season,
not because of the new collections that walked down the runways, but because brides will continue to be spoiled with a wide range of modern silhouettes and chic embellishments.
wedding industry continues to change just like all major fashion design houses,” Beachler said. “That’s really what makes this industry so enchanting. You simply never know what the next sea“When it comes to designs and looks, the son will hold.”
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While Fall Bridal Week may dictate style for many bridal shops, Beachler said many of her brides remain true to a more traditional silhouette including the fit and flare, ball gown, sheath, a-line and mermaid. Popular fabrics include lace,
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crepe and mix and match.
“While Winchester remains a more traditional location, I am seeing brides looking to step out of their comfort zones and try popular styles like deep plunges or gowns that show a little more skin,” she said. “I’m always pleasantly surprised when that happens. But again, it all comes down to what the bride desires her dress to look like for her big day.”
For many brides, shopping for a wedding dress can be an overwhelming experience, but not at The Valley Bride. Beachler prides herself on offering a personable, one-on-one atmosphere that allows her brides to find their true style. Beachler takes the upmost care in getting to know each bride, learning their wants and needs, wishes and desires.
“For me it’s more than just a dress,” she said. “I want to get to know them. I want to hear the story of how they met, the details of the proposal. Everything. Because it’s those important details that create such a monumental moment in their life. It’s something they will never forget.”
She admits that websites like Pinterest are one of the leading causes of bridal dress anxiety. But with a little guidance, Beachler said she is able to help most, if not every bride, that walks in the door find their perfect wedding dress. She also offers flower girl dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and tuxedo rentals. She will even pick them up from various local venues upon request.
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Many of her brands are American made, including Siri and Aria, something she said she holds near and dear to her heart. New this year, and something Beachler is extremely excited about is her VIP Appointment package. A bride, along with up to ten guests, have the shop exclusively to themselves for two hours after closing. Beachler provides wine and cheese, sweet and savory snacks and cake pops, all locally sourced from her favorite retailers. “I wanted to create something that was geared towards her big, day but on a grander scale,” she explained. “I was driving down the road, that’s where I do some of my best thinking, and it just hit me. I knew this was my next big thing. And I’m so incredibly excited about it!” A handful of brides have participated in Beachler’s new VIP service. To prepare for the experience Beachler said she does her homework. She contacts both the bride and groom to learn more about their big day. She asks for their wedding song and colors, cake flavor and even a special note to the bride. “I’m not going to give all the secrets away because I want it to remain special for my brides,” she said. “But just know, it’s an amazing evening for all who attend.” The Valley Bride is located at 127 N. Cameron St., Winchester. Appointments are recommended, but not required.
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The Northern Virginia Daily
5 great reasons to take engagement photos During their engagements, couples will make many decisions in regard to their weddings. Wedding planning can sometimes seem like a runaway train of appointments, schedules and deadlines. As a result, some couples do not take the time to enjoy being engaged, which is a special and unique time in their lives.
information to both the couple and the photographer. The photographer gets to see how the couple interacts in front of the lens and can determine any insecurities or strengths and weaknesses couples may have. These lessons can be filed away and help make wedding day photos look better. Similarly, spending time with the photographer gives the Engagement photo shoots can be a unique way for couples to commemorate couple an opportunity to develop a rapport with their photographer. If and enjoy the months preceding their couples and their photographer don’t weddings. Engagement photos memorialize the engagement and provide click, scheduling an engagement shoot well in advance of the wedding gives many additional benefits as well. couples a chance to find someone else to 1. Engagement photo shoots give take their photos. couples a chance to connect with 2. An engagement photo shoot gives their photographers. Booking an engagement photo shoot provides helpful couples time to spend together. An
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engagement photo shoot is an ideal time to spend an afternoon in a special location focusing on each other without wedding planning taking up your time. 3. Photo shoots provide a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. Professional photographs taken before the wedding enables couples to view how they will appear in pictures. Seeing these photos might help couples grow more comfortable in front of the camera. This practice can help couples temper their anxieties prior to the wedding. An engagement shoot also can be a great time for couples to speak with their photographers about angles or styles they prefer or dislike. 4. The bride and groom have save-
the-date or social media photos. Engagement photographs can be used for save-the-date cards or social media postings (check with the photographer for licensing agreements). This can be a great way to spread excitement about the upcoming nuptials. 5. Photo shoots provide a chance to experiment with vivid backdrops. Engagement photography gives couples plenty of opportunities to experiment with different locales, which may not be possible come the wedding day. Engagement photography can be a worthwhile inclusion in pre-wedding celebrations.
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How to create a wedding day schedule might want to schedule hot shaves for themselves and their groomsmen. Grooms should ask groomsmen if they want a hot shave and then work with Confirm when the wedding venue is their barbers to determine how much time it will take to tend to all open to the wedding party. Before Creating a wedding day schedule can seem like a daunting task. Couples tend booking hair and makeup appointments, participants. Brides with large bridal to have lots of things to do before saying couples should confirm when they will be parties may need to book more than two hair and makeup artists so everyone can able to access their wedding venue. “I do,� and organizing everything so get done on time. Wedding hair and Brides may want to get their hair and ceremonies begin on time can seem as makeup done at the ceremony sight, but makeup sessions can last several hours puzzling as a brain teaser. But certain for large bridal parties, so brides should that may only be possible if the venue scheduling strategies can help couples schedule their sessions early if their opens early for the wedding party. If it ensure they look their best and make it parties are big. does not, then brides must account for to the altar on time. transportation time to the ceremony Make lunch arrangements. Some Start with the ceremony. Couples can sight when making their wedding day couples choose to tie the knot and host establish a framework for their wedding schedules. their receptions at the same venue. In day schedule by working back from the ceremony. Once the ceremony time is set, Determine how much time is needed such instances, if brides are getting their hair and makeup done at the venue, ask for hair and makeup. Weddings that couples who plan to take photos before the venue representative if lunch can be their ceremonies can then work with their feature large bridal parties will require provided to the bridal party. Some venues more time for hair and makeup than photographers to determine how much may include small lunch buffets in their time they will need for photos and where ceremonies with small bridal parties. Grooms and groomsmen often take care reception costs, while others might they want to take the photos. Bridal of their own hair, though some grooms parties may need transportation to the charge extra. Confirm the availability and
Wedding days can be hectic. In fact, many couples note after tying the knot that their wedding days were so busy that the ceremonies and receptions were over before they knew it.
photo session, so determining when and where to take photos before the ceremony gives couples an idea of when to arrange for pickup.
costs, and if it’s unavailable or too expensive, then arrange for lunch to be delivered. Either way, couples should not skip lunch, as it may be their only chance to eat until after the ceremony. Distribute your schedule to one another and the bridal party. Once the wedding day schedule has been devised, couples should share it with each other and their wedding parties. Grooms’ wedding day to-do lists might not be as extensive as brides’, but grooms should still be kept in the loop regarding the schedule so they can help if anyone has questions or if something goes awry. Sharing the schedule with the wedding party decreases the chances of someone being late or missing an appointment. Couples can solve the riddle of scheduling their wedding days by working backwards and asking their vendors to cooperate in laying out the day’s events.
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7 wedding tricks to make the big day easier Wedding planning is no small task. From sending out engagement announcements to gifting guests with takehome favors, a couple will pour over scores of details as they plan their weddings.
guest who was able to get a babysitter at the last minute. Brides and grooms may want to offer a bigger tip than anticipated to the waitstaff or deejay who went above and beyond.
As if selecting a photographer or choosing the right passed appetizers isn’t challenging enough, some unknown variables are sure to pop up on the big day as well. Couples can take their cues from others who have walked the aisle before them with these tricks of the trade, which may help couples’ wedding days go smoothly.
4. Learn how to bustle. Walking around with a free-flowing train all day can become tiring for brides. Brides should make sure that one person practices how to bustle the train and will step in to do so for the reception. Also, it may not be the height of fashion, but having a garbage bag on hand can keep the train clean during inclement weather, or if the bride has to trek across grass or soil for photo opportunities.
1. Host everything at a single location. Couples who want to simplify their wedding day can select a site that can host the ceremony and reception and also house guests. The cost of such facilities may be more affordable than couples think, as transportation costs will be minimal and the venue may offer discounts on group packages. 2. Think about a day coordinator. Couples who cannot afford a wedding planner to handle all of the details often find that a day-of-service provider is within their budget. This person can handle all of the details of the wedding day so brides and grooms can fully immerse themselves in the festivities. 3. Bring extra cash. Unexpected expenses may pop up. Couples may have to feed an extra member of the band or a
5. Give an outgoing person a job. Enlist a boisterous friend or family member to wrangle guests for photo opportunities. He or she can be the photographer’s helper and give the happy couple one less thing to do. 6. Stock the bathroom. Some venues will have courtesy items for their guests, but couples also should bring their own necessities, such as breath mints, toothpaste, extra pantyhose, hairspray, lip gloss, and/or sanitary pads. 7. Be all smiles. Couples can’t predict everything that will happen on their wedding day, but they can help create the mood. Smiling couples can make things better for everyone, even when zippers break or someone gets the chicken instead of the salmon.
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Things to consider when choosing a wedding party Making the important decision to get married can fill couples with joy and excitement as they imagine spending the rest of their lives together. Naturally, brides- and grooms-to-be are anxious to share the good news with others and include family and friends in the festivities. One way couples exemplify inclusion is by asking their closest acquaintances to be part of their wedding parties. Being asked to serve as a bridesmaid or groomsman is an honor. Some couples may be tempted to ask every friend, sibling or cousin they have to be in their wedding parties, and some do. In fact, ancient Roman law required 10 witnesses to be part of the wedding ceremony. However, the larger the wedding party, the more people couples have to coordinate and the more personalities they must manage.
particular situation. Trends vary based on geography and culture. These tips can help couples decide on the size of their wedding parties. Match it to scope and style. Wedding planners may use a standard ratio for a proportion of guests to wedding party members. That ratio is one pair of wedding attendants for every 50 guests. This creates a balanced feel where the more people in attendance, the larger the wedding party and vice versa.
Consider your expenses. Wedding party members may be asked to spend considerable amounts of money to be in the wedding, but the couple will have certain expenses tied to the wedding party as well. These can include limousines to ferry people between the ceremony and reception, photography costs to arrange and photograph large wedding parties, the cost of boutonnieres While large wedding parties are in style, and bouquets, attendants’ gifts, as well there isn’t any one-size-fits-all formula to as extra mouths to feed at the rehearsal decide which size party is right for a dinner. Small wedding parties can be
easier on couples’ budgets.
Select reliable, easygoing people. Wedding party members should be people Know your expectations. Couples couples can rely on, and it only helps if should discuss what they expect from wedding party members are not prone to their wedding parties. Do couples want overreacting. Choose a wedding party their loved ones to be very hands-on or that can be trusted and people with waiting in the wings? For those who want whom you get along. a lot of input from their wedding parties, Wedding party sizes are up to the couple, asking distant friends or family to be but bigger isn’t always better. included may be impractical.
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How to curtail wedding spending and still impress guests Tying the knot can be an expensive endeavor. According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, which surveyed nearly 13,000 brides and grooms in the United States who got married in 2017, the average cost of a wedding was more than $33,000. That figure may surprise some couples planning their weddings, many of whom may not be able to afford spending so much on their ceremonies and receptions. Couples may feel pressure to compete with friends and relatives whose weddings they have attended in the past, and that may compel some to stretch their budgets and even go into debt to finance their nuptials. However, there are ways for couples to curtail their wedding spending and impress guests at the same time.
lower wedding spending, and The Knot study found that the average guest count decreased from 149 in 2009 to 136 in 2017. Trimming the guest list may seem harsh, but couples who work together need not cut their guest lists in half. By working together, couples can likely find between 10 and 15 acquaintances on their initial lists who won’t be offended if they’re not invited. Couples who spend the 2017 average per guest can save nearly $3,000 by removing just 10 people from their guest lists.
Expand your venue horizons. A greater number of couples are looking beyond traditional wedding venues and opting for more unique locales to tie the knot. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that 15 percent of 2017 weddings were held on farms, ranches and even in barns, while just 2 percent of weddings were Trim the guest list. The 2017 Real hosted in such venues in 2009. The Weddings Study found that couples spent growing popularity of unique wedding an average of $268 per guest in 2017. venues may make some locations more Many couples are recognizing that expensive than couples anticipate, but a willingness to tie the knot in a unique smaller guest lists are a great way to
venue greatly increases couples’ options, improving the chances they will find more affordable venues. Cut back on guest entertainment. Customizing experiences for guests is a major reason why today’s couples are spending so much more per guest than their predecessors. Spending for customized guest entertainment, which includes things like photo booths, sparklers and video booths, tripled between 2009 and 2017. Couples may want to give their guests unique experiences, but should not stretch their budgets or go into debt to do so. Tie the knot in winter. Summer and fall were the most popular wedding seasons in 2017, and that does not figure to change anytime soon. Couples can take advantage of those trends by getting married in winter, a slow season for wedding venues and vendors, who might be more flexible with their prices. The most popular months to tie the knot in 2017 were September, June and October,
so couples who don’t want to wed in winter but want to avoid paying top prices should avoid those three months. Weddings are expensive, but couples can find ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality.
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Factors to consider before including Fido in your wedding Pets are full-fledged members of many not documented assistance animals on families and even, apparently, families-to- the premises. Confirm a venue’s pet be. policy before purchasing any wedding day attire for your dog. Couples who are In its 2016 American Wedding Study, intent on including their pets in their Brides magazine found that 8 percent of wedding ceremonies should only consider wedding ceremonies included pets. While pet-friendly facilities, which may be hard the couples of yesteryear might have left to find. Couples who plan to take a Fido at home, many of today’s couples limousine to and from their wedding also want their four-legged friends to be there should confirm that the cars allow pets on their big day. Though no studies to before booking. date have examined which animals are most likely to make an appearance at couples’ nuptials, it’s fair to assume that dogs, which tend to get out of the house more than most other types of pets, are the most common furry bridesmaids, groomsmen or ring bearers. Before including dogs in their wedding plans, couples may want to consider a few factors to ensure asking Fido to be there come the big day is what’s best for couples, their guests and, of course, their beloved pooches. Eligibility Some venues do not allow pets that are
Personality No two dogs are the same. Some dogs might love people and attention, while others might prefer one-on-one time with their owners. Dogs that are sociable and unaggressive may make perfect additions to wedding ceremonies, while animals that exhibit anxiety around strangers or seem uncomfortable in noisy settings should be kept out of the ceremony. Health Dog owners also must consider their pets’ health when deciding whether or not to include them in the wedding
ceremony. Couples who bonded over a love of their dog may really hope to include their furry friend in the festivities, but should not do so at the expense of the animal’s health. Outdoor wedding ceremonies under sunny skies may produce potentially unhealthy conditions for certain breeds or older dogs. Dogs that have difficulty getting around may need a red wagon (and attendant) to make the rounds at the wedding. Assistance Couples will be busy on their wedding days, so they may need to arrange for a caretaker to look after their dog during and after the ceremony. Asking a guest or guests to play this role may be asking too much, as guests will no doubt want to celebrate without having to take care of a dog. A professional pet sitter might work, but that can be costly, as couples must pay for the sitter and will likely need to pay for the sitter to have a seat and a meal during the reception.
Dogs can make great additions to weddings, but couples must consider a host of factors before deciding to have Fido join them as they tie the knot.
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Tips for choosing a wedding reception menu
Weddings are memorable for a host of reasons. While couples remember their weddings because they mark the day they officially tied the knot, guests may remember weddings for other reasons, including the food served at the reception.
Some wedding venues are known for their stunning landscapes, while others build their reputations on unique interiors that provide unforgettable ambiance. But regardless of where weddings take place, guests are liable to discuss the food served at the reception. Guests might rave about the escargot or complain that the fish was flaky, but couples who choose reception menus wisely can go a long way toward ensuring there are more compliments than complaints once the dinner bell rings.
Don’t zero in on specialties. According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, a survey of nearly 13,000 brides and grooms who tied the knot in 2017, the average wedding hosted 136 guests. While couples might be tempted by specialty dishes when choosing their wedding menus, couples who are hosting dozens, if not hundreds, of guests should keep things simple.
Consider potential allergies. In regard to
entrées, make sure guests with food allergies can choose something that won’t make them sick. According to Food Allergy Research & Education®, an organization devoted to improving the quality of life of individuals with food allergies, some common foods cause the majority of allergic reactions. Peanuts, soy, sesame, and shellfish are among the most common food allergies, according to FARE®. FARE also notes that allergies to wheat, milk and eggs are common in children. While such foods can still be served at wedding receptions, make sure to also include foods that are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions. Couples can even ask guests to inform them of any food allergies. Don’t hesitate to offer a favorite food. While specialty entrées might not be a great choice, especially at large receptions where lots of mouths must be fed, a couple who has a favorite food that’s symbolic of their relationship should not hesitate to offer it during the cocktail hour. For example, a couple who met in Thailand may want to offer a favorite Thai dish. Offer an elaborate dessert. The last bite guests will take is dessert, so couples who want their guests to go home raving about
the food may want to offer something special after the entrées have been taken away. Some guests may not indulge, but those who do might end their nights thinking about the delicious dessert they enjoyed as the festivities drew to a close. If the dessert is especially unique, offer
something more traditional alongside it for more hesitant guests. Choosing a wedding menu should be fun. Menus should reflect not only couples’ tastes but also include some popular foods so no one goes home hungry.
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Wedding unity ceremony ideas Weddings celebrate the joining together of hearts, families and homes. The unification of a couple pledging vows to each other is the key component of the ceremony, and unity rituals are common during both traditional and nontraditional weddings. Unity ceremonies represent the magic of two people coming together as one. Unity rituals may be built into certain religious or cultural weddings as a normal part of the festivities. Other couples may want to embrace the idea of a unity ceremony to add something extra special to their ceremonies.
can be expanded to include other family members, with a rainbow of colors blending for a now unified joining of families.
countries. After vows are exchanged, the officiant wraps a floral garland or rosary around the couple. At the end of the ceremony, the garland is saved as a symbol of unity and love.
Unity cross: Christians may enjoy a unity cross ritual at their ceremony. A unity cross is a decorative cross with a holder, and the cross is held in place by three pins, which symbolize the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. During this ritual, the bride, groom and officiant will each set a pin in place.
Handfasting: This ritual comes from an ancient Celtic tradition that bounds the bride and groom’s right hands together during the wedding ceremony. Handfasting symbolizes couples’ commitments to one another.
Tree planting: Planting a tree or shrub that can grow with the marriage is a green idea and one that takes unity rituals to a different level. Couples can place the sapling in a decorative pot and Candle lighting: The lighting of a unity Sand pouring: The pouring of sand into a then take turns watering it. Later the tree candle is one of the more recognizable and vessel also is a popular unity ritual. In this can be planted outside the couple’s first traditional unity rituals. During this ritual, ritual, couples choose two sands of home. the bride and the groom each light an different colors and then pour their individual candle and then together light a respective colors into a vessel, allowing the Lasso ceremony: This ritual is traditional in many Spanish- and Filipino-speaking larger candle, which celebrates them different hues to mix together. This ritual
Couples seeking creative options for unity rituals as part of their wedding ceremonies can explore these clever ideas. coming together as one.
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Flower ceremony: In this ritual, couples can exchange roses or a favorite flower and then place them in a vase or basket. All members of the family also are invited to place a single flower into the vessel, which ultimately results in a beautiful floral display. Couples can create their own unique unity ceremonies. The blending of any two materials, such as wine, tea, glass beads, or paint, or even the traditional tying of knots will convey the symbolism of joining as one.
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Guide to a successful destination wedding
Imagine reciting vows along the Mediterranean coast or amid pastel-hued homes and swaying palm trees. For the travel-inclined, destination weddings present the perfect opportunity to meld wedding and honeymoon all into one — with family and friends around to enjoy the magic.
The Knot Real Weddings Study, the largest survey of its kind, surveys thousands of American brides and grooms to determine the latest wedding trends. In its 2017 report, The Knot revealed 25 percent of weddings that took place that year were destination weddings. Couples are increasingly leaning on entertainment and personalization to create memorable experiences for their guests, and at the expense of practicality. Choose a locale that speaks destination weddings are great ways to create those to you but will also offer the convenience and amenities unique experiences. that work for the guests who will be traveling. While planning a wedding inevitably involves some See the place in person. If budget allows, book a trip to obstacles and even some stress, planning a destination the intended destination to see the facilities and location, wedding presents a unique set of obstacles. Before advise the experts at Brides magazine. Working with couples commit to a destination wedding, it’s important to vendors in person also can simplify sorting out certain details. first consider a few factors to ensure knots get tied without a hitch. Send save-the-date cards promptly. Unlike traditional weddings in which reminders can be sent roughly six Pick a meaningful location (but one that works for guests, too). Exchanging vows at a favorite hiking spot can months before the wedding, save-the-date cards for destination weddings should be mailed at least nine give guests an inside view into what makes you tick as a months to a year in advance of the big day. couple, but the location of the ceremony should not come
Hire a professional. Professional wedding planners may prove invaluable when it comes to destination weddings. Rather than organizing everything on your own, you can hire a wedding planner to take care of itineraries, obtain information about necessary travel documents, coordinate with local vendors, and much more. Consider tourist seasons. Weather tends to be best during tourist seasons. Therefore, make sure to reserve hotel room blocks and venues promptly. Slightly before or after peak season may still be fine, but ensure that vendors will be available and look into weather trends carefully before choosing a date. Research the legality. According to The Knot, many countries have residency requirements, which means you must live in that country for a certain period of time before the ceremony. Factor this into budget and availability. Scale back on DIY. Handling many of the details while getting married close to home can be challenging, but doing so for a destination wedding can be difficult to organize. Scale back on DIY, leaving many of the details to the professionals. Destination weddings require extra planning, but they can be memorable ways for couples to start their new life together.
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Cut blooms that will last the longest Flowers may look beautiful in gardens and even when snipped and brought inside to brighten up a mantel or dining table. Unfortunately, cut flowers have a finite shelf life. While cut blooms can’t live forever, certain varieties will outlast others. Choosing flowers wisely for wedding centerpieces or keepsakes can help couples enjoy selected flowers longer. Peonies: Peonies can last for about a week or two when brought indoors. HGTV says to snip the stems when the buds are tight, wrap them in newspaper and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to arrange.
Zinnias: These bright blooms can last for three to four weeks and are best harvested in summer. Related to the sunflower, zinnias are available in a wide range of colors.
Chrysanthemums: Widely referred to as “mums,” these midsummer to latefall flowers can last between three and four weeks after being cut. Mums can be used to fill out floral displays because they tend to be inexpensive but durable flowers.
Coneflower: The purple coneflower is popular, but coneflowers are available in many colors aside from purple. Coneflowers attract butterflies and are beautiful in cut displays.
Carnations: Another budget-friendly flower, carnations are popular from early spring until late summer. Available in many hues, they can be used in conjunction with other blooms to create well-rounded floral displays that may last
between two and three weeks. Lilies: Lilies are traditional flowers that are beautiful to behold. Lilies are available in various sizes and colors and can be bought fresh yearround. Lilies often last longer than a week after being cut. Look for lilies with tight buds, as such flowers tend to last the longest. Gladioli: The lovely flowers of the vertical-growing gladiolus, which is sometimes referred to as the “sword lily,” are available in yellow, peach, pink, white, and other hues. These bulb-based plants can last up to two weeks after being cut and add variety and texture to floral displays. Ranunculus: Ranunculus mimic the look of roses and display layer after layer of silky, crepe-like petals. These blooms can last a week or more in vases if they’re put in water right after being cut. Although advice varies on how to keep cut flowers fresh the longest, veteran florist Nic Faitos, senior partner at Starbright Floral Design in New York, who has provided his floral expertise for Reader’s Digest, says the best approach is to keep vase water clean. In addition, ProFlowers suggests keeping cut blooms in a cool room away from direct sunlight and heat.
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Overcome wedding weather obstacles
Summer approaches with the promise of warm temperatures. Weather is one reason why summer is such a popular season to tie the knot. But just because sunny skies and rising mercury are par for the course, that does not mean Mother Nature won’t invite herself to the festivities — and attempt to upstage happy couples in the process.
Some feel it’s good luck for couples to get rain on their wedding days, but many couples would trade in a little of that luck for clear skies. However, weather can be fickle, and couples who build contingency plans into their wedding festivities are fans and umbrellas available just in case much more likely to overcome inclement guests need a way to protect themselves weather than couples without such plans. from the sun. Have solutions for sun and heat. Strong storms. Over the course of hot Couples don’t want their wedding guests and humid days, storm clouds can develop or bridal party members passing out due and roll in. Afternoon thunderstorms are to heat exhaustion. Make sure to offer quite common on summer days. Accommodate for sudden downpours by shade if the ceremony or reception is hosting early luncheon receptions or outside. Stock the area with cold bottles of water or a chilled lemonade stand. Have ensure there is a plan B that includes a
opportunities for one-of-a-kind memories. Keep a generator on standby. Storms may knock out power. Some reception halls or banquet facilities may have their own backup power, but be sure to address how power outages are handled. If need be, bring in a portable generator to keep the reception room cooled by fans. Plan for wind. Coastal outdoor weddings present beautiful backdrops for weddings. But being near the shore may mean accepting windy conditions. Tie down tents and use weights to keep wedding programs or other papers from catching a current. The bride and her wedding party covered area. Couples can stash spare shoes or even rain slickers in a car to keep should opt for free-flowing tresses so they their wedding attire protected against rain needn’t worry about intricate updos coming undone. as they dash between venues or take photos. Maintain a sense of humor. It’s Embrace the rain. Vivid skies with lightning or overcast days can make for unique and striking wedding photography. Couples needn’t look at the downside of rain, but rather they should see the
impossible to predict wedding day weather, but staying calm, going with the flow and laughing at things they can’t control can help couples make memories that last a lifetime.
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Live wedding music
Booking a live band for a wedding or another special event can be a great idea. The atmosphere live musicians can provide is unmatched. Live musicians offer a level of excitement that may not be met by other musical options. But some couples may find the prospect of booking live entertainment a bit challenging, especially if they’ve never hired musicians for an event before. Here are some tips to make the process go smoothly.
Get recommendations. Just like you might before booking other vendors, seek advice from friends or family members who have recently gotten hitched or had live performers at their events. They may have wonderful things to say about particular bands or performers. Individuals also can consider a resource such as HireLiveMusicians.com, a global musician database that can help couples narrow down their options.
Decide on when the musicians play. Live musicians can entertain guests
throughout the ceremony and reception, but the longer musicians play, the more they’re likely to cost. Work with musicians to develop a schedule that suits your budget. Discuss the theme. Make sure musicians understand the type of atmosphere you’re hoping to create. A band that customarily plays swing or bigband era songs may not fit in at weddings with more modern themes. Understand the fees. Musicians may have fees related to their agents, cartage (extra given to musicians who carry large equipment), mileage costs, travel time, lighting, and other factors that affect the overall price. Discuss these fees before signing any agreements. Be sure the venue fits. Live musicians are great but not if the space is too small. Otherwise, the music can be too loud and overpowering, or the band will not have adequate space to set up. Consider these factors before making any decisions.
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Merging finances after tying the knot Happy couples experience various should define their financial goals changes after tying the knot. One of those together. Is it a goal to save for early changes concerns couples’ finances. retirement? Is a house in the immediate According to an analysis of data from the future? Is frequent travel a desire? Are we planning to contribute much to future National Survey of Families and Households, arguments about money are children’s educations? These questions a frequent concern with married couples. and more need to be addressed early on. Furthermore, there is a higher correlation By creating a financial plan together, couples can more clearly map out their between the risk of divorce and the financial futures. prevalence of financial disagreements. While fights about money do not Combining accounts may be easier. necessarily cause divorce, they can create Some couples want to maintain their full rifts in relationships. financial independence. But combining accounts can help couples avoid arguments Even couples who have plenty of money about secrecy and concerns about partner may have disagreements about their spending. Combining accounts also finances. Arguments may stem from affords couples a clearer picture of their couples not understanding how their spending and saving habits. partner views money or the disparities in spending habits among partners. Couples Assess debts as a team. One person who make early efforts to get on the same may be bringing more debt to the page concerning finances may have marriage than another. It’s important for smoother waters ahead than those who all cards to be on the table and to work delay such discussions. together to eradicate debt. If a person will Establish goals together. Couples
be coming to the marriage with poor
credit, it may be worth it to keep things separate until a spouse works on remedying his or her finances, according to Credit.com. Decide how to split expenses. One partner may make more money than the other, and one may spend more time handling household needs or future childcare responsibilities. Couples need to
agree whether one person pays for certain bills exclusively, whether they spend from one salary and save the other, or combine finances completely and spend equally, offers NerdWallet. Engaged couples who develop a postwedding financial plan may find their transition to being married much easier than those who delay such discussions.
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Second marriage guide Taking a chance on love and marriage for the second (or third) time is certainly worthy of celebration. The Pew Research Center reports that at least four in 10 new marriages now include at least one partner who has been married before, a trend that is on the rise.
reflect the formality and scope of the event.
Make it unique. Couples who have been married before may want to set this new occasion apart from their previous weddings. Brides magazine experts suggest discussing previous celebrations and what can be done differently this Planning a second wedding can be time around. Couples can use this challenging, as individuals may be opportunity to get to know each other worried about proper etiquette, more intimately by personalizing their superstitions or meeting the festivities. expectations of others. But there are no entertaining gifts that speak to couples’ hard rules governing second weddings. interests. These may include home Don’t feel beholden to intimate Now that couples are older and a bit theater systems, fancy cookware, athletic affairs. Second weddings tend to be more experienced, wedding planning may more intimate, as guest lists tend to be equipment, or even funds for travel. be met with greater enthusiasm and smaller and couples tying the knot again Involve the children. Couples who have patience. These tips can help the process may prefer more intimacy and less hustle children can make them a special part of along. and bustle. But couples should not avoid their second wedding celebrations. Kids inviting people simply because second Dress it up. Brides need not eschew can play any role in the ceremony, weddings are typically small affairs. Invite depending on their age. If the second white if they prefer to wear it for their second weddings. White, cream, ivory, or as many friends and family as you want marriage comes after an amicable and as your budget allows. other shades are perfectly acceptable. divorce, couples can invite their former Set up a registry. Established couples spouses to provide support to their Also, brides can make their gowns as lavish or as simplistic as they desire. The may have the household basics already in children so they can feel comfortable in place, but registries can include fun or length and style of the dress should the wedding.
Be prepared. The marriage application process is similar the second time around, but additional documents, such as a divorce decree or death certificate, may be necessary. These legal documents also will be needed for men and women who intend to change their last names after getting married. A second marriage deserves as much celebration as the first and gives couples an opportunity to express their love for each other and their appreciation to their friends and families.
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