Pretty Pear Bride Magazine - Winter Issue 2017 by Pretty Pear Bride

Volume 21

Winter Issue 2017

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Lauren Conradâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Runway Collection - with sizes up to 3x

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CONTENTS HEALTH AND BEAUTY 10

SAY GOODBY TO WINTER BLUES WITH VITAMIN D RICH

FOODS 12

3 WAYS WOMEN CAN BOOST IRON INTAKE

PLANNING 18

COUNTDOWN TO YOUR WEDDING

NOIR COLLECTION BY ELOQUII

THROWING A PARTY LIKE A PROFESSIONAL

REAL WEDDINGS 26

ANGELA + ALLEN

TAYLOR + JORDAN

BRITTANY + JOSH

HONEYMOON AND TRAVEL 74

TIPS TO STAY SHARP AND AVOID FRAUD DURING TRAVEL

5 PREPARATION TIPS TO MAKE ANY CRUISE SMOOTH

SAILING

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Editor In Chief: Shafonne Myers smyers@prettypearbride.com

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR It’s my favorite time of year.... WINTER! I love winter because it’s the perfect time to cuddle up and snuggle with your boo. And it’s also time to really just let go and enjoy family, friends and love ones. And depending on where you are live, you might get to enjoy some snow. This issue we are sharing tips for staying healthy during the winter as well as keeping your iron levels up. And some fabulous plus

size brides who look amazing and give some great winter inspiration. And since we have been seeing an increase in cruise travel for honeymoons we are sharing a few tips to make cruise sailing a breeze. Hope you enjoy! And HAPPY NEW YEARS! Love, Shafonne

@prettypearbride

Stay connected www.prettypearbride.com

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Say Goodbye to Winter Blues with Vitamin D-rich foods

inter got you down? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is estimated to affect 10 million Americans, according to Psychology Today. Another 10 percent to 20 percent may have mild SAD. Even if you don’t have diagnosed SAD, it’s not uncommon to have bouts of the winter blues. There are many reasons people experience a “winter funk:” cold weather, little sunlight, shorter days, limited outdoor activity, etc. Additionally, between the months of November and March, the lack of vitamin D absorption from the sun can be taxing on your immune system and may also be contributing to your winter blues. Dubbed “the happy vitamin” by some researchers, vitamin D could be the key to turning seasonal frowns upsidedown. Maintaining vitamin D levels during the cold winter months may help keep you healthy during

cold and flu season while also boosting your mood. What’s more, vitamin D may help you maintain a healthy weight. It’s no secret that many people experience weight gain due to the flood of comfort foods available during cooler months. This, paired with lower physical activity, causes many people to put on a few winter pounds. According to a study quoted in Men’s Health, a University of Minnesota doctor found that people with adequate vitamin D levels lost more weight than those with low levels, even though all study participants reduced their calorie intake equally.

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To get all the benefits of vitamin D, start by adjusting your diet. Vitamin D occurs naturally in eggs and oily fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel, but it’s important to look for foods that contain even higher levels of vitamin D to naturally boost your intake, especially in the winter.

Next, add the baked salmon to the salad, along with the bacon; add the Caesar dressing and stir to combine. Last, add the soft-boiled egg and enjoy! Pour eggs slowly into pan.

“Food is quite literally one of the best medicines out there when it comes to improving your mental and physical health,” says registered dietitian nutritionist, Dawn Jackson Blatner. “One of my favorite tips for boosting Vitamin D intake is to simply swap out ordinary eggs for Eggland’s Best eggs, since you’ll automatically get six times more vitamin D - it doesn’t get any easier than that!” In addition to added vitamin D, Eggland’s Best eggs provide superior nutritional benefits such as 10 times more vitamin E, double the omega-3s, more than double the vitamin B12 and 25 percent less saturated fat than ordinary eggs. A healthy diet that uses mood-boosting ingredients doesn’t have to be boring. Get creative in the kitchen and try new recipes featuring vitamin D-rich ingredients like this BLT Salmon Caesar Salad from Eggland’s Best and TheAlmondEater.com.

Sprinkle cheese over eggs and spread remaining grape tomatoes evenly over the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Place skillet to oven and bake for 20-30 minutes or until eggs are cooked through and golden brown. Remove skillet from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Cut into wedges and serve warm. To find more delicious recipes, tips and tricks to celebrate 25 years of a more nutritious egg, sign up for the EB newsletter, http://www.egglandsbest.com/ newsletter/.

BLT Salmon Caesar Salad Makes two servings Ingredients: 1 salmon filet, baked and seasoned to your liking; 2 slices bacon; 1 Eggland’s Best egg (large); 5 cups lettuce; 1/2 cup tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup croutons; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing Directions: Heat bacon in a skillet and cook completely; set aside and then cut or break into bite-size pieces once cooled. Soft boil the egg over the stovetop. While egg is cooking, place lettuce in a large bowl and add tomatoes, avocado, croutons and cheese to the bowl; stir to combine.

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Feeling fatigued? 3 ways women can boost iron intake If you’re a woman who feels like you’re constantly fighting fatigue, there could be a physical reason for that sluggishness. In the US, 1 in 10 women, between 12 and 49 years old, are dealing with the results of low iron, according to the Centers for Disease Control, and that can easily lead to extra fatigue and muscle weakness. Unfortunately, iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), particularly affecting menstruating women, pregnant women, vegans and vegetarians, athletes (especially women) and recent blood donors. “Many women have low iron levels and simply don’t know it,” reports Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, an internationally recognized expert in the fields of integrative medicine, herbal medicine and dietary supplementation, and author of Natio-

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nal Geographic’s “Fortify Your Life: Your Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and More.” “Iron is absolutely critical to some of our most basic functions, like energy production, oxygen circulation and healthy brain function.” The good news is, low iron stores can be easy to correct. Scientists at Mayo Clinic suggest the following remedies: * Eat more foods rich in iron; these include meat, eggs, soybeans, seafood, beans, peas, peanuts, dark-green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, oatmeal and/or iron-fortified breads, cereals and pastas. * In conjunction with high-iron foods, eat foods high in vitamin C that promote iron absorption. This group includes citrus fruits and juices, melons, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, leafy greens, peppers and tomatoes. * After talking to your doctor, choose an

iron-boosting supplement that doesn’t cause unpleasant side effects such as nausea, diarrhea or constipation. Blood Builder, made by MegaFood using nutrients with farm-fresh whole foods, is clinically proven to increase iron stores in women without upsetting your stomach and digestive tract. To support healthy red blood cell production and iron bioavailability, Blood Builder also includes food state folate, B12 and vitamin C delivered through Uncle Matt’s Organic whole oranges. In addition to fatigue, the most common symptom of low iron, symptoms can also include muscle weakness upon exertion; heart palpitations; pale skin; decreased focus; occasional sadness and/or an inability to stay warm. Seeking more information about addressing an iron deficiency? Learn more at BloodBuilder.com.

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Countdown to Your Wedding 12 Months Before

8 Months Before

4 Months Before

Tackle the Guest List

Book the caterer, band/DJ, florist, photographer and any rentals

Select Groom and Groomsmen attire

Finalize and order your dress

Plan Rehearsal Dinner

Set-up room blocks for out of town guests

Confirm Vendors

Dream about your Wedding Talk Money Figure out whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paying for what

Decide on Hair and Makeup Book a venue for ceremony and reception and settle on a date

Have fun and Register Begin Hair and Makeup Trials

Hire a wedding planner, if you are using one

Cake Tastings and Order Cake

2 Months Before Mail Invitations

10 Months Before

6 Months Before

Buy gifts for bridal party, parents, and your fiancĂŠ

Book an officiate

Send Save the Dates

Purchase Day of Accessories

Look for the perfect dress

Book Honeymoon

Confirm Day of Transporation

Pick your bridal party

Book the getaway car {if needed}

Shop for Vendors

Book transportation for guests {if needed}

Take Engagement Photos Order Bridesmaid Dresses Purchase wedding bands

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6 Weeks Before

48 Hours Before

Day of

Apply for Marriage License

Pick up your dress

Exchange presents with your groom

Get Everything Printed; programs, menus, other weddingreception stationery

Put all vendor tips in envelopes. Delegate to Maid of Honor or Best Man

Confirm Arrival of Bridesmaid Dresses

Write day of balance checks that are due

Give the rings to the best man and maid of honor Eat small, light meals Get Gorgeous

Plan welcome baskets for out of town guests

Drop off welcome baskets for out of town guests to hotel

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bachelorette Party Time

Wrap bridesmaids and grooms gifts

Bridal Shower

2 Weeks Before

Day Before Reconfirm Pick up times

Final Dress Fitting Last minute dolling up Give shot list to photographer Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner Review music with DJ/Band Give Bridal Party Gifts Review RSVPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and wrangle up the stragglers Update the Registry

Get Married and Live Happily Ever After

Noir Collection by Eloquii

Images via Eloquii

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Images via Eloquii

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Images via Eloquii

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Images via Eloquii

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Throw a Party Like A Professional As much as holidays are about tradition, many have an insatiable drive to outdo the festivities of years past and make this holiday season the most memorable yet. How can you outshine yourself this holiday season? The answer is simple: Think big. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be confined to the party supplies you have around your house; stretch out and rent equipment like professional party planners use. 24 Winter 2017 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine

Here are some ideas to jumpstart your holiday party planning.

and that those masterpieces you cook up taste better than ever.

1. Serve your food the right way. Preparing a holiday meal is a labor of love, but even for small gatherings, it can be a real challenge to make sure that delicious food stays warm and is served at its optimal temperature. Renting chafing dishes for main courses and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres can ensure that the temperature and flavor of your food stays just right

2. Add some smoke, snow or bubbles. Whether you want to bring some snow to a Christmas party or some cool smoke and fog effects to ring in the new year, renting a snow or smoke machine can create a party atmosphere like none other. 3. Drink in style. To throw a truly stellar holiday party, there are some

items you must have. On the top of many people’s list is a full-service bar. If you don’t have a built-in bar in your home or party venue, you’re in luck. Why? Because you’ll have more options to choose from when you decide to rent one. Whether it’s an illuminated bar, modernist style or a classic stone-top design, renting a portable bar to fit your party is key. 4. Fountains of deliciousness. To really go all out, you need to think

bigger. You need to plan as though you were throwing an A-list celebrity party. Renting a champagne or chocolate fountain is a sure way to do this. A perfect blend of luxury and deliciousness, a fountain will leave guests talking about that tumbling tower of liquid chocolate or bubbling champagne for years to come.

ware. For a reasonable price, you can easily rent fine china and exquisite glassware that will wow your guests. Best of all, you won’t have to spend a fortune on items you only use a couple of times a year! Visit www.RentalHQ.com for more holiday party ideas.

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Angela + Allen I Heart Paris France

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Photography: I Heart Paris | Venue: Maison de Polytechnicians | Bridal Attire: Carol Hannah | Hair and Makeup: Allison Depriestre

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Taylor + Jordan

Carina Photographics Minneapolis

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Retro Garden Party by Danielle Hendrickson Kansas City 58 Winter 2017 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine

Brittany + Josh

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Tips to Stay Sharp and Avoid Fraud during Travel I

f your suitcase is full, don’t worry - protecting yourself from fraud doesn’t mean more packing.

But it does mean you should prepare for the challenge of keeping your personal info safe. According to an Experian(R) survey, 20 percent of respondents had sensitive information like credit or debit cards, personal identification or smartphones stolen while on vacation. “As you travel, your exposure to risk can expand,” says Chip Kohlweiler, vice president of security at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Before you head out, ensure your financial institution is up to date with your contact information. This will minimize disruptions in service, and you can leverage travel notifications and card freeze/unfreeze features,” he adds. Fraudsters are waiting for you to slip into cruise control, so being alert can save you stress - and money. But when do you need to be on your toes and when can you kick back and relax? Let’s walk through a few travel checkpoints so you know where threats are lurking 74 Winter 2017 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine

Travel planning Window shopping for your perfect trip can ignite wanderlust. But keep your wits as you browse through destinations and travel offers online. You’ll want to be extra careful, especially if you plan to make a payment or provide personal information for bookings. You’re probably using a phone, computer, tablet or combination of these to do your planning. Regardless of what device you’re on, you can use your travel savvy to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. Watch out for: * Offers for “free” trips, or travel prices that are too good to be true * Fake travel websites * Hidden costs in package deals - read the fine print! * Requests for personal information As with any online purchase, check the URL of the site you’re on. If you’re looking at a web page but the URL doesn’t match the site you had in mind, you could be looking at a fake site being run by a fraudster. If your site checks out, read the fine print and know exactly what you’re signing up for before you enter any payment or personal info. Don’t hesitate to call and confirm any of the information you see. If the company or individual doesn’t offer a phone number, it’s probably not legit. When it comes to calling, you should be doing the dialing. It’s illegal for companies to call you with an automated message if you haven’t given them written permission to do so. The voice recording that offers you a prize in exchange for your credit card could be trying to scam you. While you’re traveling

* Airports * Hotel lobbies * Public hangouts (like coffee shops or popular tourist hubs) Pickpocketing - one of the oldest scams in the book - is popular in these busy atmospheres. Avoid distractions that take your focus away from your belongings. Remember, your personal space is exactly that - personal! Protecting your digital information is just as important as your physical space. High-traffic areas may offer public Wi-Fi. These networks are an easy access point for cybercriminals. Some fraudsters even create their own hot spots and name them based on the location. “The last thing you should do is access your bank account or any sensitive account on a public network,” says Kohlweiler. Data on your phone becomes available to a criminal when you connect to these public networks. Your best course of action is to keep your phone or tablet stowed away until you can jump on a passwordprotected network, like in your hotel room. Partner with a sidekick The good news is you’re not in this alone. There are services and resources out there to make fraud protection easier. For instance, as a Navy Federal member, you can call or go online to set up a travel notification. You can also request account info via text. Tools like these can put you one step ahead of the criminals. If you are a victim of fraud, we have a team dedicated to resolving these issues, too. When you return home, be sure to get in touch with a representative to check in. It never hurts to have two sets of eyes reviewing your account after a big trip. If you’re planning to travel, do your research and remember to pack your fraud protections. And make security tools, like the ones available through Navy Federal, your travel buddy.

You dodged the traps and booked your travel with ease. But the fraudsters haven’t called it quits, and neither should you. There are a few hot spots where you should stay alert, including:

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5 Prepartion Tips to Make any Cruise Smooth Sailing

hen it comes to a dream cruise, everyone has their own idea of the ideal vacation. The beautiful ocean waves breaking against the bow beneath you, the warm breeze blowing against your hair and the lure of new, unexplored destinations off in the distance. If you’re lucky, maybe your dream vacation is already in the works and you’re eagerly counting down the days until it’s time to board. And if you’re still in the dreaming phases of your perfect cruise, you realize that dreaming of your vacation is almost as much fun as living it... almost. No matter where you are in the process,

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the perfect cruise is more than just picking your dream destination; there are plenty of other things to consider as well. Whether a minor or monumental task, these tips are your starting point. Satisfy each of these considerations and you’ll be on your way to making your cruise everything you dreamed it could be. * Always be on the lookout for the best deal. If you could enjoy the same amazing cruise at a fraction of the price, why wouldn’t you? Deals are not hard to come by in the cruise industry and the key is to book early. Do your research, look for package offers and book your

trip as soon as you can. The wait may be difficult but an early booking could save you hundreds of dollars. * Pick the right cruise line. Your dream cruise rests on the right ship, so don’t leave this choice to chance. MSC Seaside is a sun-lover’s paradise with plenty of outdoor space to take in the Caribbean sunshine and stunning views, thanks to its unique outdoor, ocean level promenade. When you step inside for a bite to eat, you’ll discover MSC Seaside is home to celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s first restaurant at sea. Dine on gourmet Asian cuisine while enjoying the spectacular view and your cruise will be

everything you dreamed it could be. * Pack smart and know what’s included. Your cruise line is your home away from home for the duration of your trip, but that doesn’t mean you have to bring home with you. Many of your daily needs will be provided by the cruise line itself. Take the time to learn what is included with your package and you can save money and headaches by not duplicating your inventory. * Plan activities for the whole family. While the cruise itself is enjoyable, it’s the activities you take part in while on the ship that truly make your vacation unforgettable. Look for a cruise that offers activities for your entire family.

MSC Seaside, for example, features the most interactive water park at sea with slide boarding technology, two of the longest zip lines at sea, a 4D cinema and two Formula 1 racing simulators. And if you plan to bring small children, they will love the ship’s LEGO-themed playrooms along with an entire experience day with themed games and competitions. * Arrive early. Weeks and months of planning using the tips above could be all for naught if you don’t heed this last piece of advice. After all, flights can be delayed or cars can break down and if such a thing should happen to you, planning a little extra time into your schedule ensures that when the ship does leave, you’re on it, no matter what happened

on the road to get there. Your dream vacation is waiting for you. If you’re in the planning stage for your cruise, applying the tips above can help you finalize your strategy and finally get on the ship. And if you’re still in the dreaming stage, now’s the perfect time to bring that dream to life. Planning a cruise is easier than you may think and just a few little steps can put you on board for a vacation you’ll never forget. To get started on planning your cruise, visit www.msccruises.com. [Image caption: MSC Seaside, MSC Cruises’ newest revolutionary ship, will debut in Miami in December 2017 with a unique beach condo design.]

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www.prettypearbride.com Photography by Eva Cranford Photography