2017 Wedding Planner

2017 Plan to visit the businesses featured in this issue for all of your wedding needs.

• Weborg 21 Centre - Page 2 • Monument Inn & Suites - Page 3 • MJ’s Restaurant - Page 3 • Comfort Inn - Page 4 • Julie’s Antiques - Page 4 • Gering Civic Center - Page 5 • Walmart - Page 6 • The Steel Grill - Page 6 • Headzup - Page 7 • Blossom Shop - Page 8 • Global Dreams Travel - Page 8 • Big Red Nebraska Popcorn - Page 9 • Union Bar & Grill - Page 10 • Valley Event Center - Page 10 • Bluffs Sanitary Supply - Page 11 • Elysian Salon - Page 12 • Herberger’s - Page 12 • Wagner’s Floral - Page 13 • Diana Deeds Travel - Page 13 • Travel Planners - Page 14 • Fort Laramie B & B - Page 14 • Garden Gate - Page 15 • The Monument Grill - Page 15 • Alliance Travelers - Page 16 • The Flower Basket - Page 16 • Hamption Inn - Page 17 • Gering Bakery - Page 18 • Scotts Bluff Country Club - Page 18 • Eagles - Page 19 • Cloud 9 Cakery - Page 19 • Angela’s Bridal - Page 24

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Make proposals special and successful A marriage proposals is a couple’s first official step toward the altar. Tradition dictates that men pop the question, with their

surprised - and hopefully soon-to-be-fianc’es - ultimately deciding if wedding bells will be on the horizon.

Proposing marriage can be nervewracking.

However, if the time seems right and love is in the air, popping the question can be exciting. Regardless of who is proposing marriage, the following strategies can help make proposals memorable and successful.

Turn the tides An old Irish tradition known as ‘The LadyÕs Privilege’ was established in A wedding proposal is a special moment in couples’ lives together. It can the fifth century by a nun named St. be made even more special by following some guidelines.

Brigid. She decided to create an opportunity for women to propose marriage. This day fell on every leap year, February 29. Centuries later, women can still use this tradition as the impetus to take the marriage reigns into their own hands. But women need not wait for the next leap year to propose.

Many women view proposing as an empowering action that is tied to the evolving view of independent women. Couples are negotiating more in the marriage process, and the dissolution of commonly held practices is occurring more often.

Choose a sentimental location Couples will remember the proposal for the rest of their lives. So choose a proposal location that has sentimental connections. Think about where the first ‘I love you’ was uttered or where a first date occurred. These can be prime locations to pop the question.

Note her style Engagement rings play a big role in many couples’ proposals. One person’s style is not

necessarily what his partner will like. Bigger isn’t always better. Rather, choose a ring that reflects your partner’s preferences and personality. Take your partner jewelry shopping and see which types of jewelry he or she is most drawn to. Certain preferences can serve as a jumping off point for ring designs.

Ask for the family’s blessing Men no longer need to ask their girlfriends’ fathers for ‘permission’ to wed their daughters. However, asking your partner’s family for their blessing is a sign of respect and can add a romantic and heartfelt touch to the proposal.

Capture the moment Though we live in an age when every moment of people’s lives is documented with videos and photographs posted to social media, proposals still stand out as extra special moments. Hire a professional photographer to discreetly capture the proposal and your partner’s reaction so it can be cherished for years to come.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Different roles for the father of the bride Popular movies and televisions shows give the impression that the job of the father of the bride in a wedding is ultimately about making sure the festivities are adequately funded.

In the movies, fathers fret about the costs of everything from flowers to photos.

But gone are the days when the father of the bride bankrolls his daughter’s entire wedding.

The Knot’s ‘2014 Real Wedding Survey’ reported that, on average, the bride’s parents contribute 43 percent of the total cost of a wedding; the bride and groom contribute another 43 percent; the groom’s parents spend 12 percent; the remaining 2 percent of the budget is paid for by family members or friends. That frees up Dad for other roles in wedding planning. With some creativity, couples can find ways to incorporate the father of the bride into the festivities in even more productive ways.

• Wedding sites: Assign dear old dad the important task of looking at potential wedding reception sites prior to visiting them yourself. He may have certain connections through work or attended business or leisure occasions at catering halls and other venues.

Dad’s connections can pay off. Let him impart his negotiating skills and find the best deals

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with the ideal backdrop for the festivities.

• Wardrobe: Let your father assist the best man and other groomsmen in securing their tuxedos or other wardrobe essentials.

Dad also can step in and return rented items following the wedding.

• Beverages: Dad may be fitting to keep tabs on what is occurring at the bar during

the reception, ensuring that guests’ needs are being met. He also can keep an eagle eye trained on anyone who may have overindulged and needs to take a break.

• Speech: Give your father an opportunity to shine by letting him make a speech.

Remember, this is a momentous day for Dad as well, as he may be trying to come to terms with his daughter starting a new life.

• Father-daughter song: Let Dad pick father-daughter song, and go with his choice even if you had something else in mind.

• Ceremony: Even if you prefer a less traditional wedding ceremony, let your father walk you down the aisle.

This will likely be a moment he’ll remember for years to come.

Expand the father of the bride’s role in the wedding by assigning him tasks where he can put his style, experience and excitement to good use.

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The Gering Civic Center has been hosting wedding receptions for 23 years and has served over 1 million thrilled customers.

Judy Keller has 33 years experience in event planning and menu preparation.

The Meat Shoppe has been catering wedding receptions for 33 years. The Meat Shoppe has traditional menus and ethnic buffets prepared by our professional chef.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Weddings and nontraditional families Families come in all shapes and sizes.

During special events - particularly those steeped in tradition, such as weddings - blended families may have to employ certain tactics to ensure the events go off without a hitch.

When planning their weddings, couples must give consideration to the needs of their families. Even though a wedding is about the union of two people, oftentimes couples engaged to be married must contend with the politics of divorce or other familial issues. This includes if and how to incorporate stepparents and stepsiblings into the ceremony and celebration.

There are no traditional rules regarding how to handle blended families, so brides- and grooms-to-be can customize their decisions based on their own unique situations. Even when families have been happy through the years, the unique circumstances and traditions surrounding the nuptials can dredge up former insecurities, and certain aspects may require extra patience and tact. Here’s how to navigate the process.

• Consider stepparents and stepsiblings VIPs. Brides and grooms who are not particularly close to their stepfamilies still have to recognize the role they play in the family dynamics. These people are still family, so respect and courtesy should be offered. If there is any lingering animosity, extend the olive branch on this day and try not to let anyone be made to feel as if they are unimportant.

A simple announcement of who stepparents are at the wedding reception or inclusion of their names on wedding itineraries can help smooth over any potential bumps.

• Put others’ needs before your own. While the wedding may be about you and your future spouse, you must consider the feelings of others. Biological parents and stepparents may act defensively if they feel uncomfortable or hurt, and that can create an air of negativity to the day. Try to avoid this by considering potential areas of conflict. For example, mothers might be hurt if their ex-husbands’ new girlfriends are asked to be in a group family photo. Instead, select separate times to have everyone included. Remember to give parents and stepparents priority seating as well, and they each should be seated next to someone they love and someone with whom they can

converse comfortably. You may think everyone can play nice, but it’s best not to push the

issue just to make a point at the wedding.

• Recognize that some families break the mold. Recently, a father made waves on the Internet when a video of him pulling the bride’s stepfather up to assist in walking her down the aisle went viral.

This was a wonderful image of families making it work despite their differences or the awkwardness that can result when brides or grooms have parents and stepparents in attendance. Although this scenario might not play out for all, find ways to impart a special touch, especially if you’re close to both your biological parents and your stepparents. For example, your biological father may walk you down the aisle, while your stepfather may enjoy the first dance.

• Order flowers and gifts for all.

Purchase flowers and wedding party gifts for all of the special people in your lives, including your stepfamily.

Weddings can be complicated affairs when factoring in blended families. With patience and compassion, such families can enjoy a beautiful and happy day.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Determining wedding day dress codes

Black tie weddings require men to wear tuxedoes.

Wedding invitations do more than merely announce that a celebration is on the horizon. Invitations provide key information about the ceremony and festivities to follow.

Many details, including the location, time and date of the wedding, are spelled out on the wedding invitations. However, invitations can sometimes leave guests confused about the appropriate style of attire for the occasion.

Even though wedding invitations rarely offer specific information regarding attire, chances are the wording will provide clues that can help guests interpret the desired dress code.

Casual If the invitation mentions casual attire, it’s important to realize that everyday casual is different from wedding casual. Jeans, shorts and tank tops are unacceptable unless otherwise noted. Err on the side of caution and go with business casual, which includes chinos, slacks, a polo shirt or button-down shirt for men. Women can wear a sundress

or slacks or a skirt and an attractive blouse. If the invitation mentions beach casual, shorts and even sandals are likely acceptable.

Semiformal Semiformal dresswear, sometimes referred to as ‘dressy casual,’ is a step up from casual clothing. Cocktail dresses or a more elegant skirt and top are the norms. Gentleman generally wear a suit and tie. Coordinate the colors of clothing to the time of day. Fabrics should represent the season. For example, a linen suit will not pass at a winter wedding.

Formal Formal attire is the default dress code for the majority of weddings.

When the invitation does not specify a dress code, it is safe to assume formal attire is expected. Men can choose among a dark suit and tie or a tuxedo. Women can opt for a formal cocktail-length dress, a classic suit or a long dress. Select among tones that are gray, black or brown.

Black tie Black tie events also require formal attire. Black tie typically goes hand-

in-hand with an evening wedding.

Black tie is more rigid for male guests, who should wear a tuxedo, black bow tie, cummerbund, and patent leather shoes. Women have a little more leeway with their attire at such gatherings. A long evening gown might be preferable. However, a chic cocktail dress also can be acceptable, and darker, neutral colors are most appropriate. Some invitations may reference ‘Black Tie Preferred.’ While men may opt for a tuxedo, a black suit also can be worn.

White Tie The most formal of occasions will request white tie attire. Ball gowns and tuxedoes with tails are the norm, as are dramatic jewelry and hairstyles. White tie attire is akin to what one might see worn to awards shows.

When attending a wedding, it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Guests can consult with fellow guests or the bride and groom if they are unsure of the dress code.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Master the wedding save-the-date Many couples’ weddings take more than a year to plan. Couples want all of the special people in their lives to witness their vows, and giving guests advance notice can ensure as many loved ones as possible attend the ceremony.

To be certain that guests have ample notice to clear their schedules, many couples now turn to save-the-date cards, which announce weddings well in advance of the actual wedding day.

Save-the-date cards once were reserved only for weddings that required travel or special circumstances, such as destination weddings. But such cards have now become commonplace for all weddings.

That’s because many people plan vacations or business trips anywhere from four to six months in advance.

Busy people require plenty of notice to include this important date on their calendars, particularly when wedding dates fall during popular travel seasons or around the holidays.

Kleinfeld Bridal, a premiere New York bridal boutique, says that savethe-date cards are typically mailed six to eight months prior to the wedding, though some are sent as early as a year before the big day. Once a date and a location is secured, savethe-dates can be ordered and mailed.

Save-the-date cards

require couples to assemble their guest lists well in advance of the wedding.

The leading bridal resource The Knot notes that everyone who will get a wedding invitation should also receive a save-the-date card. There’s no turning back once cards are sent, so couples will need to be certain everyone they want to attend is getting advanced notice.

It’s acceptable to mail save-the-date cards even if some wedding day details are still up in the air.

Guests really only need to know the date and location of the wedding. Couples also can use the save-thedate card to direct invitees to a wedding website where guests can learn the details

of the wedding as they unfold.

RSVP information does not need to be included on the save-the-date card.

Save-the-date cards are much less formal than invitations, so couples can have fun with them. They can showcase couples’ clever personalities or funny quirks. Keep in mind it is in poor taste to mention gifts or registries on savethe-date cards. There will be plenty of time to direct guests to registries later on.

Couples are increasingly turning to save-the-date cards when planning their weddings to make sure busy friends and family will have enough time to make plans to attend their weddings.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Tips for trimming the wedding guest list

The reception space may dictate the number of guests couples can invite to their weddings.

Weddings are a time to celebrate, and many couples hope to invite as many people as possible to share their excitement. A 2014 study by researchers at the University of Denver found that couples who invite at least 150 guests to the wedding may have happier marriages.

The study examined 418 people who were single at the beginning of the study and married five years later. It found that 47 percent of those people who had gotten married in front of at least 150 guests had ‘high-quality marriages,’ while those with 50 or fewer guests fell short.

While guests make weddings more enjoyable, and may increase

the propensity to enjoy a more successful marriage, couples must be practical and consider their wedding budgets when creating their guest lists. The average American wedding includes 120 guests, according to a 2015 Newlywed Survey released by WeddingWire.

Couples who are finding it difficult to create and pare down their guest lists can employ the following tips.

• Create initial lists.

When jotting down potential guests’ names, write down everyone you want to invite, regardless of budget.

Then list the must-have guests for the wedding.

TCreate a separate column for guests who

don’t make the musthave list.

• Separate friends from friends’ friends.

If you don’t see people outside of events set up by mutual friends, you should not feel obligated to invite those people to the wedding. They are more likely friends of your friends and not your close friends.

• Know the guest list ceiling. Catering halls or reception rooms often can only accommodate a certain number of people. Know this number before making a final list. The limits of the space may serve as the catalyst for trimming the guest list.

• Consider coworkers carefully. Think about whether you’d still be

friends with your coworkers if the company dissolved tomorrow. If not, you should not feel obligated to invite them.

• Have we met? If you don’t remember interacting with a person (your parent’s long lost friend from high school) or the person has never met your significant other, then they probably can be cut.

• Ask for an unbiased opinion. Give the editing pen to someone else if you cannot make a decision.

Paring down a wedding guest list can be a difficult process, but couples should work together and respect each other’s concerns when creating their final list.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Throw a casual wedding to remember Elegant, lavish weddings provide moments couples will remember for years to come.

But while such storybook ceremonies and receptions remain popular, casual affairs are gaining popularity.

According to the bridal resource The Knot, more and more couples are opting for less pageantry and more laid back panache when planning their weddings. For those who prefer something more intimate and more personalized, casual weddings may be right on target.

There are many advantages to having a ‘luxe with less’ wedding, including the ability to break molds and impart more of the couple’s personality into the event.

Another advantage is the price tag. The average U.S. wedding, according to The Knot 2014 Real Weddings Study, costs $31,213. In some urban areas, particularly New York City, average costs are three times that amount.

Golden Girl Finance, a leader in financial digital media, has found that Canadian weddings average $31,000 with honeymoon included. Although wedding costs have gone up, the average number of wedding guests has gone down. As such, certain couples

might look to rein in other aspects of their wedding.

Transforming the festivities into a casual affair can help keep the overall budget low while still allowing for an exciting and enjoyable event. To put casual plans into motion, consider these ideas to help the wedding vision come to fruition.

Venue Catering halls and other reception sites do a wonderful job of meeting the needs of their clientele. However, food and beverage costs are often the most expensive wedding expense. To reduce the per-guest cost and also incorporate some variety into their wedding days, couples can consider a venue change.

Look for public locations that allow couples to hire their own caterer, which may be a favorite restaurant or specialty food shop. The cost per person may decrease dramatically from the venue costs.

Changing the venue also enables couples to pick unique spots that may hold special meaning to them. For example, couples can choose the site of their first date or the location where their proposal took place.

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such as fried chicken or pizza, on fine china.

Those wearing tuxedos and gowns can opt for casual footwear, such as athletic shoes.

Place wildflowers in crystal vases. These are just some methods to give a rich feel without removing the fun element.

Personal touches Menus or wedding programs printed at home in a fun font can set the casual tone couples are looking for. Look for eclectic fabrics to use as gift tags or napkin holders.

Hand-painted signs or a hodge-podge of picture frames can display pertinent information, such as itineraries or seating arrangements.

Encourage friends or family to contribute a favorite menu item to the food offerings.

A home-baked dessert can be delicious and budget-friendly.

Wardrobe Clothing often indicates the formality of an occasion. Everyone from the wedding party to the guests can dress down. Sundresses can replace taffeta bridesmaids’ gowns. Guys can opt for tailored sports coats with jeans. Guests may feel comfortable in less formal attire that facilitates dancing and mingling.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Stunning engagement ring alternatives White diamonds have been the traditional engagement ring stones for decades. While shoppers have experimented with gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals for ring bands, the star of the show has long been that twinkling, pristine diamond.

Even though diamonds may be a ‘girl’s best friend,’ they may not fit every woman’s style, particularly the bride who likes to buck tradition and think outside the box. According to Money magazine, the average engagement ring costs more than $5,800. In addition to being one of the most expensive gemstones, diamonds have become quite commonplace.

Some women even eschew diamonds for moral reasons.

Whatever the driving force behind shopping for alternative gems, women who want to set themselves apart from others - and men who want to ‘wow’ their significant others with unique and eye-catching rings - may opt for other dazzling stones.

• Moissanite: This crystal naturally occurs in meteorites and is nearly as hard, dense

and scuff-resistant as a diamond. Some feel moissanite offers more brilliance and fire than diamonds. Moissanite is a white-colored stone, so it can mimic the look of a diamond.

And since it can be made in the laboratory at a fraction of the cost of even lab-made diamonds, it’s a frugal option. A nearly flawless one-carat moissanite gem can cost less than $1,000.

• Lemon quartz: This is the trade name for a lemon-yellow stone that is a variety of color-enhanced transparent quartz. Quartz is turned into this sunny hue through an artificial gamma ray irradiation process. Like other quartz gemstones, lemon quartz is considered to be very durable and is therefore suitable for all types of jewelry.

• Sapphire: Sapphires tend to be blue stones (of varying intensity), but they also come in peach, pink, yellow, green, and white. Sapphire may not sparkle as much as a diamond or even moissanite. However, with the right cut, it can be hard to distinguish any lack of luster. Sapphires are the third hardest mineral,

and at about onethird the price of diamonds, they make an ideal diamond substitute.

• Morganite: According to the blog Bridal Musings, morganite is currently one of the most popular choices for engagement rings. Its pretty pink hue is romantic and feminine. It also sits at around the same hardness as sapphires, ensuring the rings will endure.

Vividly cut rubies, emeralds and tanzanite - all gems that are rarer yet less expensive than diamonds - can make beautiful engagement rings. Some couples also may opt for

rings without gemstones, such as traditional Claddagh or ‘true lover’s knot’ rings to signify their union.

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Tips for a special mother/son dance

Weddings celebrate the unions of happy couples ready to pledge their lives to each other. In theory, the wedding day spotlight should be shared equally by brides and grooms. But brides often eclipse their grooms, as guests are drawn to stunning bridal gowns.

Though grooms might play second fiddle for much of their wedding days, there is one moment when all eyes are on the groom and a special lady in his life.

The mother/son dance is a wedding tradition that many grooms embrace as their opportunity to show their

mothers how much they love and appreciate them.

The mother/son dance is an ideal time to create a special moment, and the following are some tips to personalize the dance.

• Precede the bride and her father. Make your own tradition and switch up the timing of the dances. Be the first to take a spin on the dance floor and set the tone for the other traditional songs to come.

• Create a photo montage.

Work with an entertainment company or photographer to create a slideshow of images showing you and your mother together and separately. If

possible, include some photos that were shot during the wedding ceremony, asking the photographer to capture the look on your mother’s face during pivotal moments of the ceremony.

• Show off your dance skills.

One increasingly popular wedding trend is for fathers and brides to choreograph the father/daughter dances.

Grooms and their mothers can follow suit, particularly if you both have some stellar dance moves.

• Let Mom choose the song. Give your mother the opportunity to express her sentiments to you, as mothers of the groom do not typically toast their sons during weddings or even rehearsal dinners.

• Invite other son/mother duos up. If the idea of dancing alone with your mother is a bit intimidating, give other mothers in attendance an opportunity to share the spotlight. Celebrate all mothers in attendance, encouraging any mothers and sons who are present to dance together.

Grooms may not garner the bulk of guests’ attention on their wedding days. But they can take steps to make their special dances with their mothers more memorable and unique.

2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Incorporate flowers in various ways

Flowers play a big role in many weddings, and couples can add beauty and ambiance to the event by using floral arrangements in various ways. Modern floral arrangements are stunning, and many couples may not know that herbs, spices and flowers have been used in weddings for centuries.

Today, flowers are used to decorate wedding venues, impart sweet fragrances and complement formal attire, but in ancient times they were used differently. Flowers were used to bestow good luck on the couple and keep bad omens away. Brides carried aromatic flowers and spices to keep evil spirits from spoiling the festivities, and some even tucked bulbs of garlic into their bouquets.

In ancient Greece and Rome, both the bride and groom wore garlands made out of strong-smelling herbs flowers around their necks or heads.

These wreaths were considered gifts of nature, and thus extremely appropriate for a wedding. Traditionally, bridesmaids would be responsible for fashioning these floral components. In ancient Sweden, young girls would carry small bouquets of fragrant herbs down the aisle and the groom would put thyme in his pocket. These aromatics were

thought to help keep trolls at bay.

• Wreaths and garlands: Ask the florist to weave small flower buds, berries and vines to a headband, wreath or piece of twine so that the bride and groom can wear these flowers in the way they were worn by ancient Greeks and Romans. When coupled with Grecian-styled wedding gowns, brides can look like beautiful goddesses on their wedding days.

• Fragrant favors: Tuck dried rose petals and other fragrant flowers into sachets that are embroidered with the wedding date and couple’s names. Guests can use these

sachets to keep clothings smelling fresh in drawers or as subtle air fresheners around the house.

• Edible flowers: Ask the caterer to make meals flower-friendly by including some edible blooms in the salad or as a garnish on meals.

• Raining petals: In lieu of bubbles or birdseed, guests can shower the newlyweds with rose petals after the ceremony.

• Memorial: Some couples like to honor departed family members. Floral arrangements with small placards can make for fitting memorials.

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Wedding transportation tips

Weddings are momentous events for the couple tying the knot as well as all of the friends and family invited to share in the big day.

Before couples can tie the knot and cut a rug at their receptions, everyone, couple and guests included, must arrive at the location. Though arranging wedding day transportation can be difficult, there are ways to make the process go more smoothly for guests and bridal party members.

Determine your needs Determine how much time is needed to travel from the ceremony to the reception area. Allocate enough time before the cocktail hour to allow for traffic, photos and any other needs that may take up time. Couples do not want anyone, included themselves, to feel rushed.

Once the timing has been orchestrated, couples can figure out exactly which

types of transportation will be required.

Book personal transportation first Happy couples must make their own transportation their top priority. Arrange for the couples’ transportation between five and seven months in advance of the wedding. It could be preferable to book it even further in advance if a couple is getting married around a holiday or during prom season when limousines and party buses are in high demand. Remember, unless the brideto-be plans to be seen by her groom, couples will need separate transportation to the ceremony site. Factor multiple vehicles into the wedding transportation budget.

Explore your personality Brides and grooms have many transportation options at their disposal. If a limousine doesn’t add the spark of creativity they desire, they

can opt for a VW bus or a retro roadster. Outdoor enthusiasts might want to ride off on horseback, while easy riders might prefer to rev up the engine on a Harley-Davidson. Couples should never feel penned in by tradition, especially when something else makes them feel remarkable and the budget allows for it.

Have your getaway car ready Couples generally opt to arrive to the wedding and reception in style, but take their own vehicles or cabs home afterward. This requires some advanced planning.

Enlist the help of friends to park the return-trip car in a convenient location. Check with the catering hall to see if a vehicle can be left in their lot overnight. Otherwise, arrange to grab a ride home with friends or family.

Consider others needs Have the names and phone numbers of taxi or ridesharing services available for those who may not be able to drive after the party. Elderly or disabled guests might appreciate prearranged transportation as well. Although couples can arrange for transportation as a courtesy to others, they don’t need to make arrangements for everyone.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Hotel How-To: Tips for guests looking for lodging Couples about to tie the knot often arrange for discounted hotel rooms for their wedding guests.

Many hotels offer substantial discounts to wedding parties, but some guests and bridal party members might still want to examine their options before booking rooms. The following tips can help guests find the right room so they can enjoy their loved ones’ wedding weekends to the fullest.

• Don’t overlook the wedding hotel. Many couples put a lot of thought into the hotel where their guests will be staying. Couples may have already done the legwork with regard to finding a hotel that’s closest to the wedding ceremony and receptions sites and still within arm’slength of other attractions guests can enjoy while in town. Give ample consideration to the hotel or hotels affiliated with the wedding prior to beginning your search, even if the hotel is a

chain you have never used before or have not liked in the past.

• Prioritize proximity. It’s important to consider factors aside from cost when searching for a place to stay for a loved one’s wedding. The most affordable option is not always the most ideal. Proximity to the ceremony and reception venues should be a priority, as guests won’t save much money, if any, if their hotel is so far away from the weekend’s activities that they must rent cars or take taxis all weekend.

• Share rooms to reduce costs. If the wedding rates are unaffordable, float the

idea of sharing rooms with fellow guests. Splitting the cost of a double room instead of booking a single room by yourself can save substantial amounts of money. And staying in the hotel with many of the other guests will make you feel like you are not missing out on anything during your stay.

• Look for lower rates in the wedding hotel. Room rates are locked in once couples choose a particular hotel or hotels, but guests might be able to find more affordable rates at the same hotel by waiting to book and perusing discount hotel websites and apps.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

How to build your wedding budget Couples engaged to be married have a lot on their plates as they begin planning their weddings. Whereas tradition once demanded parents of the bride pay for a couple’s wedding, nowadays more and more engaged couples are completely or partially financing their own nuptials. That means prospective brides and grooms must develop wedding budgets that won’t ensure their first act as Mr. and Mrs. is paying down debt.

In its 2015 Real Weddings Study, online bridal resource The Knot found that many couples still receive substantial financial support from their parents to pay for their weddings. The survey found that, on average, the bride’s parent’s contributed 44 percent of the overall wedding budget in 2015, while couples financed 43 percent (the remaining 13 percent was financed by the groom’s parents and additional sources). Couples who hope to follow that formula or pay for their weddings on their own can heed the following tips to build wedding budgets that won’t break the bank but will still ensure a day to remember forever.

• Examine your collective finances. Few couples know the details of each other’s finances before getting engaged. While some may still hesitate to share their personal financial information upon getting engaged, an open and honest discussion and examination of each person’s finances is the only way to develop a realistic wedding budget that both partners can live with. Once couples know what they can contribute, they can then consult their parents to determine if their mothers and fathers are intending to contribute.

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• Develop a preliminary guest list. A preliminary guest list can give couples an idea of how large and expensive their weddings will be. According to the Real Weddings Study, the average cost per wedding guest in 2015 was $237. While that cost can vary greatly depending on geography and other factors, couples should keep that figure in mind when drafting their guest lists. If need be, keep costs down by trimming the guest list so it includes only close family members and friends.

• Don’t count on gifts. Many couples justify runaway wedding budgets by telling themselves that they will ultimately get the money back via wedding gifts. While many guests will give financial gifts, counting on such windfalls is a recipe for accruing debt.

Do not build potential wedding gifts into your wedding budget. If you do so and your expectations fall short, you could be facing considerable debt upon returning home from your honeymoon.

• Gather quotes before choosing where to tie the knot. Where couples get married will have a great impact on how much money they will spend on their weddings. For example, the Real Weddings Study found that, in 2015, the average wedding in Manhattan cost couples slightly more than $82,000, while the average Alaskan wedding cost just over $17,000. Venues within the same city can vary greatly with regard to pricing and offerings as well, so couples should give themselves ample time to gather quotes and find an affordable venue they like.

• Build extra costs into your budget. When determining a budget you can live with, remember to include a little extra for unforeseen costs. Weddings are large undertakings, and it’s reasonable to expect some unforeseen costs to arise. Building such costs into your initial budget will make these unforeseen circumstances that much easier to handle.

Budgets can help couples stay on track and avoid debt as they plan their weddings.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Information to include on your wedding website Personal websites are an invaluable resource for couples planning their weddings. Wedding websites provide a great platform for couples to share all sorts of information regarding their big day, making them an essential element of modern-day wedding planning.

Wedding websites need not feature all the bells and whistles of more permanent sites.

But while there are specific guidelines governing what to include on wedding websites, couples should be mindful to share certain information to ensure their guests stay in the know about the pending nuptials.

The participants Wedding websites can be used to inform guests about the couple getting married as well as the various participants, such as the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Extended families of the bride- and groom-to-be may not know much about their loved one’s betrothed, and the wedding website can help guests get to know both people getting married. Include information about the bridal party as well. A brief story about each bridal party member’s relationship to the bride and/or groom can be a great way to illustrate just how much each

person in the party means to the couple tying the knot.

The big day Invitations were once the go-to source for information about couples’ wedding ceremonies and receptions. But unlike invitations, websites won’t get lost around the house or in the mail, making them more reliable resources for guests. Include all the pertinent details about the big day on your website, including the time and location of both the ceremony and the reception. Include directions to and from the venue (both the ceremony and reception venues if they will be held at separate locations), and include a Google maps feature if possible.

RSVP info Save guests the trouble of returning RSVP cards by including an RSVP section on your website. Establish an email address solely for RSVPs, and check it regularly so you can update who is and who is not attending your wedding. Couples can save the expense of postage by requesting that guests RSVP exclusively through their websites. Just be sure to

include that request with the invitations if you still plan to mail more traditional invites.

Accommodations Many couples arrange for discounted hotel rooms for their out-of-town wedding guests. Include this information on your wedding website, and aim to include at least two hotels where guests can register under your party and receive discounted lodging.

In addition to the hotels you arrange a deal with, include some extra information about other lodging options in the area. Out-of-town guests will appreciate having as many options as possible, and couples providing that information saves guests the trouble of researching certain neighborhoods to determine if they are safe or close to the ceremony and reception sites.

Registry Wedding websites also provide a great way

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for couples to share registry information.

Include links that take guests directly to your online registries.

Wedding websites are a great resource for couples who want to share information about their weddings. As the big day draws closer, couples can update their sites to reflect any new developments.

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How to handle a wedding around a holiday

While summer and fall are the most popular times of year to get married, couples can tie the knot whenever they choose, including on holidays.

Holiday weddings tend to stray from the norm, and that can make for a memorable night for couples and their guests. For example, couples who choose to get married on Halloween may encourage their guests to arrive and celebrate in costume, making for a unique experience for all in attendance.

But planning weddings that take place on a holiday or holiday weekend may require a little extra effort.

• Research venues before finalizing the date. Couples who have their eyes set on certain venues to host their ceremonies and receptions should research the availability of those venues on holidays or holiday weekends before finalizing their wedding date. Some venues may have preexisting agreements with local community organizations that may prohibit them from hosting weddings or limit their available time slots. Confirm the availability of your ideal venues before making

your date official.

• Allow for a longer engagement. Regardless of which holiday you choose, keep in mind that many people make plans well in advance of a holiday. Holidays tend to be accompanied by long weekends, and your guests may already have plans for that time off from the office. In addition, families often travel to visit relatives during the holiday season at the end of the calendar year. If you plan to wed on a holiday or holiday weekend, allow for a longer engagement so your guests won’t have to cancel existing plans or miss the wedding because they already have travel plans that weekend. Let guests know your holiday-wedding intentions as soon as you finalize the date.

• Start looking for vendors as soon as possible. Vendors, including caterers and photographers, tend to be busy on holiday weekends, so start looking as early as possible. It’s important to comparison shop, but couples who wait too long to sign contracts with vendors might find themselves paying more and/or choosing whoever is available as opposed to their top choices.

• Plan to pay a little more. As noted, vendors tend to be busy on holidays and during holiday weekends, and their prices may reflect the high demand for their services.

• Expect some declined invitations. While an extended holiday weekend may seem like the perfect time to tie the knot, guests may not share that perspective. Every couple has at least a few friends or family members decline their wedding invitations, but those numbers may be more substantial for couples hosting holiday weddings.

Holiday weddings can make for some great memories, but couples must be especially diligent when planning weddings on holidays or holiday weekends.

2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Rein in destination wedding costs Destination weddings can make for memorable affairs for brides, grooms and their family and friends. Destination weddings often take place in idyllic locales that make for a gorgeous backdrop to the happy couple, setting the perfect ambiance for such noteworthy occasions.

Destination weddings ask a lot of both the couple and their guests. Couples may need to visit the location of their destination wedding several times before the big day, and those costs can quickly add up. Guests, too, will need to budget for flights and lodging to attend a destination wedding. But there are some ways for couples to rein in the costs associated with a destination wedding to ensure everyone has a good time without having to worry about finances upon returning home.

• Look for convenient, affordable travel.

Some resorts may offer great prices on destination wedding packages, but be careful to avoid locations so remote that you and your guests will be forced to pay for expensive flights. Destination weddings have become more popular over the last decade, and many resorts now offer competitive destination wedding packages as a result. But if keeping travel affordable for your guests is a goal, find a location that guests can visit after purchasing reasonably priced flights rather than choosing a location based on the cost of the wedding package.

• Shorten the guest list. Shortening their guest lists is how many couples curtail destination wedding costs. Invite only your closest family and friends to the wedding and reception, and then host a second, less formal party for your remaining relatives after returning from your honeymoon. Guests will understand, and you will ultimately get the chance to celebrate with all of your loved ones anyway.

• Go simple and save. Many traditional weddings include all the bells and whistles, such as lavish floral displays, elaborate gowns and

additional expensive accoutrements. But it’s acceptable, if not expected, to simplify things at destination weddings, especially those in island locations. Let nature do the decorating and opt for native wedding attire if it’s more affordable than potentially costly gowns and tuxedos.

• Resist peak tourist season. Much like there’s a peak wedding season throughout North America, many countries’ economies depend heavily on tourism seasons. Avoid peak tourist season when choosing the date for your destination wedding, as costs may be considerably more to marry during this time of year than less hectic and popular seasons.

• Look into discounts on all aspects of the wedding. Popular destination wedding locations may be willing to negotiate prices on all aspects of the wedding, and those discounts might increase as more guests commit to attending. Resorts recognize that destination weddings bring guests who will need lodging, food and entertainment, and couples can use that to their advantage when negotiating prices. Couples may even be able to negotiate with airlines for discounted airfares if they can guarantee a certain number of travelers.

Destination weddings need not break the bank, as savvy couples can find numerous ways to trim costs.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Make the first dance even more special Donna Summer may have sung about making the most of life with her song ‘Last Dance’ in the 1970s, but during a wedding reception most of the focus is on the first dance of the evening when the newlyweds take to the dance floor for the first time after tying the knot. Not only does the first dance give the couple an opportunity to shine on the dance floor, but it also can help set the tone for the reception to follow.

A couple’s first dance is significant. Traditionally, the first dance was performed to a slow waltz, but now the first dance is not governed by any rules.

Many couples like to push boundaries or get creative with their first dances, and this can make the wedding even more memorable.

In fact, some couples enroll in dance classes or enlist the help of choreographers to ensure an epic opening dance number. Social media is full of videos of innovative couples performing spot-on dance routines from classic dance movies like ‘Dirty Dancing’ or beautifully choreographed dances to popular first dance songs such as ‘At Last’ or ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love.’

Whether a couple wants to perform an intricate tango or simply wants to sway to the music on the first dance, here are some pointers to keep in mind.

• Choose a wedding song that has meaning.

It may be fun to do a dance routine to DNCE’s ‘Cake by the Ocean,’ but remember your first dance song will forever be linked to your life as a couple. Select a song that has deep meaning to you. Read over the lyrics to make sure

it’s an appropriate wedding song.

• Tame those nerves. Practicing is a way to feel more confident in your steps, and that will help keep nerves at bay. Many couples experience a bit of stage fright. Just keep in mind that these friends and family are at the wedding to support you and not judge your dance moves.

• Choose an uncomplicated routine. If dancing is not your strong suit, select an easy song that allows you to simply sway back and forth and move around minimally. Dancing takes practice, but with that practice even the self-professed ‘worst dancer’ can cut an impressive rug.

• Work with a professional. If you desire something more intricate for the first dance and you have the budget to pay for some dance lessons, go for it. An instructor can take you through dance basics or help you choreograph a more polished piece.

First dances are memorable moments at wedding receptions. Guests can’t wait to hear the song couples choose, and some couples exceed guests’ expectations with their impressive moves.

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Wedding day memorial ideas

Honoring the Memory of Your Loved One Weddings are momentous occasions that are full of happy sentiments. But for couples who recently lost loved ones, an undercurrent of sadness may make wedding ceremonies and receptions somewhat bittersweet.

Loss touches everyone at one point or another, but it can be particularly sorrowful when the loss of a loved one occurs close to couples’ wedding day. Even though it can be challenging to acknowledge that someone close is no longer around to participate in a wedding, there are plenty of ways for couples to express their heartfelt sentiments for lost loved ones on their wedding days.

• Establish a memory table. A memory table is a place where you may put a photo of a loved one or items he or she may have given you that mean something special.

• Play an upbeat song. Invite guests onto the

dance floor and request the DJ or band plays a song in your lost loved one’s honor. Perhaps it is a song that contains that person’s name or is a tune he or she just loved.

• Keep a memento close by. Sew something symbolic of your lost loved one into your wedding gown or tuck it into a pocket of your tuxedo so you know he or she is always nearby.

• Reserve an empty chair. Keep a chair at the ceremony and the reception empty for your departed loved one.

• Dove or butterfly release. Symbolize unending love by releasing doves or butterflies in honor of your lost loved one. This can be both a touching tribute and also a beautiful spectacle that couples and their guests will remember forever.

2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life

Making the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help.

Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion.

Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity.

Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning.

While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise. Plus, they’re portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding.

Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for import-

ant documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board.

To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you. As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks. Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials.

Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources. Anything you come across in your daily life Ñ such as window-shopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit - may inspire some creativity.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings.

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Rehearsal dinner how-to

Many couples find their wedding rehearsal dinners to be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of wedding planning. Such dinners enable the happy couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a relatively casual gathering with their closest friends and family members.

Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the night or two before the wedding. The couple, members of their wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom and others involved in the wedding typically attend this dinner. The couple generally takes the time at the dinner to thank everyone for their contributions to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of appreciation. No rules govern rehearsal dinners, so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners as they see fit.

Rehearsal dinners often come immediately after the ceremony rehearsal, when the wedding party and the officiant go over the timing and details of the wedding. Make arrangements with the ceremony site and officiant prior to making dinner reservations.

Parents of the groom traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in planning the event. That means couples should keep an open and gracious mind.

Remember, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to any budget or preference.

Some couples feel that hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can make the dinner more comfortable for members of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another before the wedding. This will help to tame nerves and enable the wedding party to loosen up and enjoy themselves even more.

Some people may be more inclined to socialize and have fun when they’re not worried

about putting on airs.

Restaurants that have special meaning to the couple often make for great places to hold rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can suggest their ideas, but ultimately it is the person handling the bill who has the final say. Couples who want greater control over the rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting it themselves.

Despite its name, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t actually have to be a dinner, as couples can opt for meals at a different time of the day, like brunch or lunch. An earlier occasion gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest up for the festivities of the wedding to come.

Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner, but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks.

A couple with a good sense of humor might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom should expect to say a few words of thanks to all in attendance, but remarks need not be too formal.

Rehearsal dinners may even feature a little entertainment. Tech-savvy parents may put together a presentation with videos or photographs that chronicles the couple’s lives separately and their life together.

Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for couples and their families to spend time together before the larger festivities of the wedding pull them in multiple directions.

Plus, they set a fun tone for the wedding weekend to come.

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Invitations & Social Stationary Printer Phone # Order Date # of Ceremony Guests

Contact Address Date Ready # of Reception Guests

Invitation Information

Reception Card Information

Date & Time Location & Address

Time Location & Address

RSVP Cards & Envelopes Information Responded by Name Phone#

Price

Reception Cards RSVP Cards & Envelopes Thank You Cards Embossed Napkins Guest & Gift Record Book Announcements Ceremony Programs

Ceremony Program Phone # Order Date # of Ceremony Guests

Qty

Contact Address

Honeymoon Location Phone #

Address

Travel Agency Company Phone #

Contact Address

Honeymoon Destination Location Phone # Departure Date/Time

Address Contact

Transportation Pick-Up Tickets at Return Departure Date/Time

When?

Return Arrival Date/Time

Photography Photographer Phone # Date Previews will be ready

Dates & Times Formal Portrait Ceremony Reception Number of Photos to be taken Package Description and Price Additional Reprints Costs

Special Pictures & Guests Not To Be Missed:

Address Contact Formal Ceremony Before At Reception Receiving Line Do we get all photos?

After Dinner

Dance

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Catering Caterer Phone # Service Date/Time Reception Location

Address Contact Price

Cost Per Person

X

# Guests

=

Menu

Does the Cost Cover...

All necessary equipment?

China & Flatware?

Servers (How Many)?

Taxes & Gratuity?

Room Setup?

Cake Cutting?

Setup & Cleanup?

Other?

Liquor Supplier Phone # Pick-up or Deliver Open Bar from Cash Bar from Champagne for Toast

Other Beverages Punch Non-Alcoholic Wine/Beer/Champagne

Bakery Bakery Phone # Address

Address Contact

Wedding Cake

Groom’s Cake

# of Servings/Person Description Cost Per Serving Cake Top or Fountain Mints/Nuts

# of Pieces Description Cost Per Serving Packaging Miscellaneous

Pre-Nuptial Celebrations Date/Time Phone # Address

Event Location

Date/Time Phone # Address

Event Location

Host/Hostess Contact

Phone # Host/Hostess

Contact

Phone #

$ (Cost)

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide

Flowers

Wedding Budget & Expenses Estimate Rings

Wedding Attire Dress/Headpiece Accessories/Shoes Formal Wear Rental Gown Preservation Other:

Invitations Postage

Flowers Ceremony Reception Other:

Rehearsal Dinner Ceremony

Actual

Florist Address Florist Address

Wedding Party Flowers Delivery Date/Time:

Fresh Floral Headpiece Throw Bouquet Maid of Honor Bouquet Bridesmaid’s Bouquets # Flower Girl Floral Headpieces # Groom’s Boutonniere Men’s Boutonnieres Others

Ceremony Flowers Altar Flowers Aisle & Pew Decorations

Reception

Cake Table

Others

Reception Flowers Delivery Date/Time: Guest Table Buffet Table Other

Rehearsal Dinner Flowers Delivery Date/Time:

Date/Time:

Videographer

Skin:

Nails: Makeup: Tanning: Massage: Waxing:

Transportation

Teeth Whitening:

Honeymoon

NOTES:

Miscellaneous Totals

Where:

To Look Your Best: Hair:

Attendants Other:

Where:

Head Table

Photographer Gifts

Where:

Brides Bouquet

Church/Location Minister Musicians Decorations/Rentals (other than flowers) Other: Facility Food Beverages Cake Entertainment Decorations/Rentals Other:

Contact Phone# Contact Phone#

Where:

Silk

Price

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Ceremony Date/Time Phone # Officiant(s) & Phone #’s Rehearsal Date/Time

Facility Address Contact & Phone # Fee

Does the facility provide/allow:

Ceremony Music Selections/Performed by:

Aisle runner?

Canopy?

Candles?

Knee cushions?

Rice/Birdseed?

Dressing rooms?

Reserved Seating Pew Pew Pew Pew

1 2 3 4

Pew Pew Pew Pew

1 2 3 4

Reception Date/Time Phone # Food Service Time Cost

Address Deposit

Contact & Phone # Cancellation Terms

Does the facility provide: Catering Service?

Liquor?

Access to Decorating?

Dance Floor?

Security?

Adequate Parking?

Clean-Up? Notes

Representative During?

Servers (how many)?

Bartenders?

Tables & Chairs?

Ample Power Outlets?

Handicap Access?

Valet Parking?

Dinner/Reception Music

Dance Music

Group Contact Phone # Playing from to Types of Music Musicians Attire Need Early Set-Up Time?

Cost Deposit Balance Due When?

Notes

Band/DJ Contact Phone # Playing from to Number of Breaks/per Length of Break Overtime Policy Types of Music Musicians/DJ’s Attire Early Set-Up Time Is Leader/DJ Going to Emcee?

Cost Deposit Balance Due When?

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2017 Wedding Planning Guide