2018 Southern Maryland Wedding Guide by Southern Maryland Online

Southern Maryland

WEDDING

Guide

A Supplement To

The County Times

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Hiring Local Wedding Vendors Wedding sites filled with natural beauty and a relaxing atmosphere. Choose from beautiful locations by the Chesapeake Bay, including bay front sites or green space with gazebos.

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Local vendors are often a go-to choice when couples are planning their wedding ceremonies and receptions. As the â&#x20AC;&#x153;shop localâ&#x20AC;? movement grows in popularity, weddings present a prime opportunity to embrace this movement.

Familiarity Local vendors will be familiar with the area and possibly even the location where the wedding will be held. That can help couples avoid having to give directions, discuss venue protocols, and handle other tasks that must be worked out with non-local vendors. For example, local photographers familiar with a particular venue will know all of the best places to get shots, and some vendors may have preexisting relationships with venue representatives that could ensure wedding day operations go smoothly. Proximity Local vendors can meet with brides and grooms more readily

throughout the planning process, making things less stressful on the happy couple. This also makes it easier to drop off deposits, attend meetings, make fitting appointments, or attend styling sessions. Environment Individuals who take great strides to conserve resources by reducing their energy consumption and protecting the environment often find that shopping local is beneficial. Local vendors are more likely to source their materials from other local businesses, reducing their carbon footprints along the way. For example, local caterers may rely on local farmers for their foods, affording couples the chance to host eco-friendly or even farm-totable weddings. Customization Working with local vendors often translates into getting more personalized service and attention than mass retailers or merchants can provide.

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The museum has a number of wonderful locations to hold your dream ceremony, overlooking the water or inside the museum among the historic artifacts of the Chesapeake Bay. The event team loves to accommodate new ideas. The options are limitless at the SOLOMONS, MARYLAND • CalvertMarineMuseum.com Calvert Marine Museum!

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The museum has a number of wonderful locations to hold your dream ceremony, overlooking the water or inside the museum among the historic artifacts of the Chesapeake Bay. The event team loves to accommodate newCalvert ideas. The options are limitless at the Consider having it at the Marine Museum in Solomons, Calvert Marine Museum!

SOLOMONS, MARYLAND • CalvertMarineMuseum.com SOLOMONS, MARYLAND SOLOMONS, • CalvertMa MAR

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Consider having it at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, Maryland. The museum is a waterfront facility with a beautiful view of the Drum Point Lighthouse. Within minutes of the Naval Air Station Patuxent River, the museum is a convenient location to host many indoor and outdoor events.

The museum’s dedicated event team would love to assist you in FACILITIES planning yourAND dream wedding! Please call the Facilities and EVENTS COORDINATOR: 410.326.2042, EXT. 17 • Megan.Purdy@calvertcountymd.gov Events Coordinator, Megan Purdy, at 410-326-2042 Ext. 17 or email n . P u rd y @ c a l ve r tco u n t y m d . g ov Megan.Purdy@calvertcountymd.gov for more information.

Did you know?

There are many different reasons couples opt to get married in a particular month. Warm weather and the best chance for good photo opportunities spurs many couples to tie the knot during the summer months. Although June has long been the most popular month for getting hitched, times are changing. Numbers from the American National Center for Health Statistics indicate that July and August have had more marriages than June for the last several years. In North America, the most popular month to walk down the aisle is July, followed by August, June, May, September, October, December, November, April, February, and March. January has the least number of weddings. Couples who are looking to save money or avoid competition for vendors with other couples can use this information when choosing a date for their weddings.

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Get A Grip On Your Guest List Cooperation 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 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 all else has failed, couples faced with difficult decisions regarding their wedding guest lists can ask themselves if prospective guests are people they expect to see again in the future or if they are people from their past. Including the former might be a good idea, while removing the latter may also make sense, especially if it’s been a long time since couples have seen people who fall into the “past” category.

How To Handle Seating Wedding Guests Receptions may be big or small, lavish or casual. But regardless of their size or style, receptions all share a common element: They will require couples set up seating arrangement for guests. Even though assigned seating isn’t mandatory, selecting seats for a sit-down dinner makes things simpler and reduces confusion. Some reception venues may even require assigned seating so that catering staff can service tables accordingly.

Seat dancers near the dance floor To encourage dancing, place guests who tend to be lively close to the dance floor so others can see them getting up to dance and join in. Couples can use apps, lists or self-made charts to plot their reception seating arrangements. Create place cards or a central chart so guests can find their seats promptly and easily.

Seating guests can be tricky, but employing a few strategies can make the process go quickly and smoothly. Use a seating chart A seating chart, whether it’s venue-specific or one couples make themselves, is essential. If you using a self-made chart, inquire with the venue about the shape of tables, how many guests each table can seat, and the location of tables around the space. Start with the wedding party table Couples can ease themselves into the task of seating by doing the easy tables first. The primary one is the wedding party table. This traditionally can be a dais or a sweetheart table flanked by the wedding party. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, the table should be centrally located and the wedding couple should sit in the middle. A male-female pattern follows on either side of the couple, consisting of the ushers, bridesmaids, best man, and maid of honor. If much of the wedding party is already married, couples may opt to have the wedding party sit with their spouses instead of at the dais. Organize family tables Tables for parents, grandparents and immediate family members of the bride and groom also are high priority. Both families can be combined at one table, or they can be separated into two tables. These tables should be the closest to the bride and groom. Consider mobility issues Next seat guests who have specific needs at tables. Elderly guests may want to be away from the band, deejay or speakers. Guests in wheelchairs may need an accessible seat near the exit. Get some help Enlist the help of parents to seat their friends and extended family members. Parents may know best who gets along and who should be separated.

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Planning Tricks The Professionals Use Wedding planning can be an exciting undertaking, but couples who have already walked down the aisle can attest that wedding planning also can be stressful. Ensuring all of the details come out right can prove overwhelming at times.

Hiring a wedding planner is one way to alleviate some of the stress associated with wedding planning. Couples who do not have the money to hire wedding planner can borrow some of the tips and tricks professionals rely on when planning weddings.

For a we dding that’s as unique as you.

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Make guests the first priority Even though it may seem like weddings should be geared around couples tying the knot, many wedding planners advise couples to focus on accommodating their guests. Having a handle on the number of people who will be attending, any of their specific needs (allergies, mobility issues, etc.), providing a comfortable environment (addressing bugs, weather, seating shortages), and knowing how much space guests will require can make choosing a venue that much easier. Rent what you don’t have Renting rather than purchasing items can save couples money. Wedding planners do not stockpile items such as tables, chairs and decorations. Instead, they rely on rental companies to provide what is necessary. Flush out foliage Wedding planners know that flowers cost a great deal of money, especially flowers that are not native to the region where couples are getting married. The process of making arrangements can be time-consuming. Also, many flowers no longer produce strong scents because they’re bred for longer stems and a lengthy vase life. Interspersing potted plants with arrangements that are lighter on blooms and heavier on filler can help cost-conscious couple stick to budget. Trust vendors’ advice Wedding vendors tend to know one another and can be good sources of information. A wedding photographer, for example, may be able to tell couples which reception venues photograph particularly well, and a reception manager may know which DJs or bands are best at getting guests on the dance floor. Negotiate before signing the contract Wedding planners understand that vendors may be more willing to offer perks or extras rather than adding up a la carte pricing before the contract is signed. This way they secure the reservation on good will. Negotiating for more later on may be difficult. Get organized Organization is key. Brides- and grooms-to-be may want to enlist friends or relatives with a flair for organization to help with details. Borrowing tricks from wedding planners can help couples save money and avoid stress.

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Affordable Bachelor & Bachelorette Party Ideas Weddings can be expensive. Various sources estimate the average cost of weddings is anywhere from $26,000 to $31,000. Couples and their parents may bear the brunt of wedding expenses, but those who have accepted a role in the wedding party also can expect their share of expenses. Taking into account gifts, wardrobes, makeup, bridal showers, and travel, including getting to and from the bachelor/bachelorette party, bridal party members are on the hook for a lot of money when their friends or family members tie the knot. Many men and women like to travel for their bachelor/ bachelorette parties, and cost-conscious bridal party members may be concerned about how expensive such parties can be. Pulling out all the stops can be exciting, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no guarantee these types of parties will be more enjoyable than simpler soirĂŠes. Taking steps to control costs can help cost-conscious couples and their friends. The following are some affordable ideas that can be fun for all involved. Bar or winery crawl Partygoers typically want to enjoy a night out on the town, and traveling from one establishment to another can be a fun way to do just that. Everyone invited can set themselves apart with a signature item (hat, T-shirt, or colored clothing), and make the rounds.

Attend a group event Group events include sporting events, concerts, theater shows, or a night at a comedy club. Investigate discounted tickets for large groups. Belt out the tune Open mic nights at restaurants, bars and other establishments around town may make for a fun way for friends to share a few laughs together. Participants need not be professional singers to join in on the festivities. Camp out Get in touch with nature by enjoying a camping trip, complete with a campfire and a few brews. Spending time in the wilderness can restore focus and let stress melt away. Poker or game night Groups can gather around the poker table to test their skills in poker and other card games. With some free-flowing beverages and snacks galore, games can get pretty animated. Dinner party Hire a chef to visit your house and prepare a meal for guests. Serve a signature cocktail and let the conversation flow. Bachelor and bachelorette parties can be affordable without sacrificing fun.

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Wedding BUDGET CHECKLIST

TOTAL BUDGET

_______________________

45% RECEPTION

_____________________

____ VENUE

3% CEREMONY

____________________

____ MARRIAGE LICENSE ____ OFFICIANT FEES ____ CEREMONY VENUE

____ CATERING & CAKE ____ RENTALS (FURNITURE, LINENS, ETC.)

____ CEREMONY MUSICIANS

____ ENTERTAINMENT

12% ATTIRE ________________________

____ FAVORS

____ WEDDING DRESS

12% PHOTO & VIDEO

_________________

____ PHOTOGRAPHER

____ ACCESSORIES

____ ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

____ HAIR & MAKEUP ______________

____ CEREMONY FLOWERS ____ RECEPTION FLOWERS ____ CENTERPIECES ____ BOUQUETS & BOUTONNIERES

3% MISCELLANEOUS __________________ ____ GIFTS ____ PARKING/TRANSPORTATION ____ CUSHION

____ TUXEDO ____ WEDDING RINGS

____ VIDEOGRAPHER

12% FLOWERS & DECOR

____ ALTERATIONS

8% PLANNER

______________________

____ WEDDING PLANNER ____ DAY-OF COORDINATION

3% STATIONARY ____________________ ____ INVITATIONS ____ SAVE THE DATES ____ POSTAGE ____ THANK YOU CARDS

Unconventional Wedding Menu Ideas Traditionally, one of the more memorable aspects of wedding receptions is the food. Whether it was fun, tasty or something entirely new for guests, food tends to leave a lasting impression. The experts at Boho Weddings say that, more than ever before, couples are seeking menu ideas that reflect their personalities as a couple as they seek to make a statement at their events. Celebrating with delicious, unique foods can make receptions that much more amazing. Bite-sized bursts Tapas and a movement toward small bites has started to take hold at wedding receptions. Such a choice allows guests to try many different flavors without filling up too quickly. From sliders to mini grilled cheese to soup shots to bitesized pizzas, many of these small bites feature flavors borrowed from familiar comfort foods — just presented on a miniature scale. Comfort stations and bars Couples who love comfort food can put it on display with a crostini station, a mashed potato bar, a chicken and waffles station, a gourmet popcorn snack station, or a ramen noodle bar. Food trucks/carts Outdoor weddings can be enhanced with the addition of trendy food trucks. These restaurants on wheels can inject burgers, sandwiches, international delights, crêpes, noodles, and so many more flavors into a wedding.

High-end options Couples may want to give guests a taste of the lavish with olive oil and vinegar tasting stations, whiskey bars, French hors d’oeuvres, Kobe beef sliders, lobster tails, risotto stations, and more. Childhood favorites When it comes time for dessert, some couples opt to avoid or downplay wedding cakes in favor of something simpler. A cookie-and-milk bar, doughnut holes, soft pretzel stations, pie pops, or dessert shot jars push creativity and sweetness to new levels. Do-it-yourself dessert stations, such as s’more-making and ice cream sundae stations, also can be big hits. Couples are increasingly feeling less beholden to traditional wedding reception menus as they look to infuse their personal tastes into the foods they plan to serve their guests. Many catering managers and chefs welcome the chance to work with couples looking to create unique reception menus.

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Wedding Receptions On-Site Catering All Inclusive 240-925-0342 • 301-884-7011 • WWW.MIKESBBQCATERING.COM

Wedding Transportation Trends

Couples planning their weddings routinely rely on professional transportation to bring them to and from the ceremony and reception. Wedding transportation options abound, and some are more popular than others. The following are some of the ways couples are getting to the altar on time. Shuttles and buses Investing in the guest experience means couples are seeking ways to provide comfort and convenience for their guests and wedding party members. Rather than asking guests to get themselves to and fro, couples may employ buses or shuttles stocked with amenities to transport a greater number of people. The Real Weddings Study indicates this type of transport has grown considerably more popular in the last six years. Exotic limousines The chauffeur-driven limousine continues to be one of the most popular methods of transportation. However, to set their weddings apart, couples are trending away from traditional stretch limousines and renting something more trendy, such as limos built upon sports cars. SUV-based limos are still popular, with Hummers, Escalades and Navigators offering the wow factor. Vintage cars For that A-list look right out of a classic movie, stepping out of a vintage vehicle creates red-carpet moments. Dream cars for this type of glamorous arrival and departure include Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and others. Many private companies rent classic vehicles. Couples also may contract with those who attend classic car shows. Water transport Couples celebrating by the ocean, a lake or a river can make a grand entrance aboard a vessel. Water taxis, pontoon boats and even sleek speedboats may be the transportation of choice. The Knot says that couples spend around 6.5 months researching their wedding day transportation options and will make their decision and a reservation five months before their weddings. The more exotic the transportation option, the earlier couples should make their decisions to ensure they can book their first choice.

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