2014foreverbridal2

T h e

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

Raise your glasses The perfect toast

BOUQUETS MAKING YOURS UNIQUE

SPRUCE UP THE TUX

Mary-Carson Stiff

January 2014

Celebrate Your Special Day at the Where Memories are Made

Wedding Packages and Customized Menus For Your: Rehearsal Dinners  Wedding Ceremonies  Wedding Receptions Bridal Showers  Bridal Luncheons  Farewell Brunch Overnight Accommodations for your Wedding Guests For Appointments and Consultations Please Contact Vicki L. Figg

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{4} Suffolk News-Herald

T h e

January 2014

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

On the cover Mary-Carson Saunders and Joshua Stiff were married Oct. 5, 2013, at Main Street United Methodist Church. A reception at the Nansemond River Golf Club followed the wedding. The couple lives in West Ghent.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lacie Hansen Photography laciehansen.com lhansenphotography@live.com Santa Barbara, CA 805.708.0919

Bri Johnson Photography www.brijohnson.com/weddings brijohnsonphotography@yahoo.com Jersey City, NJ 585.739.2668

If you would like to be featured in an upcoming issue of FOREVER, The Bride’s Resource, please contact info@foxprintservices.com ©2014 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC. PO Box 6986 Metairie, LA 70009 All rights reserved.

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( Vows )

Find the Right Words to Say “I Do”

J

IT’S THE POWER OF A PROMISE. SPEAK FROM YOUR HEART.

ust like you’ll work on everything in your new life together, it’s important for you and your partner to work together on your vows. This is the first and official element of your marriage. Together you can decide on what’s important to you and your relationship.

Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

You and your partner might want to answer and discuss some key questions.

What does this marriage mean to you - and to each of you? What are you truly vowing to do and to be in your marriage? You may want to include these sentences into your vows or they might simply help you get started: I love you because….

I will be true to this relationship because….

I will honor you forever because……

For inspiration, you can select a few lines from a book or borrow a romantic verse from a song or poem.Think about how these lines or versus reflect your love and devotion to each other. Some keywords to consider are love, honor, cherish, keep and promise.

To add some humor or more intimate elements to your vows, think about the little things your fiancé does or qualities they have that makes you smile when you think about them.

What funny things do they do that always make you laugh? What silly habits or funny expressions do they have? What defining moment made you think “I want to spend the rest of my life with this person.”

Rekindle memories of the past but also look to your future together.

What emotions do you feel when you think about being together forever.

Do you picture a certain scene (like walking into your new house together or coming home from work every day to say “I missed you today”)?

Write love letters to each other.This gives you the opportunity to share with your fiancé your true feelings and why your love matters. Designate a time to exchange your letters and discuss with each other elements that you think could be incorporated into your vows.

Remember, your vows are a foundation you can rely upon as you grow and change in your new, emerging life. These are more than practiced words, they are an expression of what you hold deep within your heart. {5} Suffolk News-Herald January 2014

( Tux )

Add That Special Touch

to HIS TUX

THE GROOM IS TRADITIONALLY THE FIRST PERSON THE GUESTS SEE AT ANY WEDDING. “WOW” THEM WITH YOUR SMOOTH LOOK AND STUNNING INDIVIDUAL STYLE. {6} Suffolk News-Herald

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

CUMMERBUND Want to add a splash of color to your tux? Then you can’t go wrong with a cummerbund. They are usually worn with a single breasted tuxedo jacket, matching trousers, and a dress shirt. The most important thing to remember is that your cummerbund should always match your tie! Going traditional? – then choose a black, gray, or red cummerbund. There’s one out there that could w your wedding colors, which would give you a debonair look!

CUFF LINKS Monogrammed or jeweled cuff links are great accessories that really add January 2014

{7} Suffolk News-Herald pizazz to the tux. If you’re wearing a white tuxedo shirt, choose dark cuff links to really stand out. Make sure the dress shirt you’re wearing has French cuffs. Maybe you’re looking to add a bit of humor? You can virtually find any kind of cuff link imaginable – from hobbies, sports, and fictional characters. Definitely speak with your fiancé about going for this “personalized” approach!

FORMAL GLOVES The classic look is still in! Consider wool, cashmere, or nylon stretch formal gloves for the ultimate statement. Although white gloves may be tempting, it’s suggested that gray or black gloves work best for a black tuxedo. Gloves can be worn in any season, but are especially elegant in a fall or winter wedding.

THE POCKET SQUARE Add a dash of color by slipping a pocket square into your tuxedo jacket. Be sure the pocket square matches your other wedding accessories, especially the vest or cummerbund and your tie. There are many ways to fold a pocket square but how you choose to wear it depends mostly on personal taste.

TUXEDO VEST If you’ve opted out of the cummerbund, then the tuxedo vest is your next best choice. A tuxedo vest is worn over the formal shirt and under the tuxedo jacket. Pique-collared vests are extremely stylish and very formal. Most piquecollared vests are sold in black or white.

January 2014

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Invitations, RSVPs, etc. )

The Right Way to

Announce - Your Special Day

Y

our wedding invite sand save-the-date sets the tone of your wedding. Let it stand as a mark of personal expression and a loving welcome to your guests. With the digital world spinning faster than we can keep up, there are many unique ways of sending out invites and save-the-dates.

Ann Landers and Dear Abby receive thousands of letters from brides-to-be asking what is proper etiquette for invites and save-the-dates. After all these years, there is still no definitive answer. Each wedding is unique, and so there is no “right” or “wrong’ way to send out your announcements.

Yes, there’s now e-mail, Facebook, and Twitter. But isn’t there something special about receiving an invite in the mail? If you want to do something different than the standard invite, there are several creative choices to look into. {8} Suffolk News-Herald

No matter the season or if your wedding is inside or outside, a fan is a unique way to present your wedding day and the welcome that comes with it. Plus, guests will appreciate such a wonderful and functional invite. You can easily go the DIY avenue, or you can have them custom-made.

Maybe you’re not going with the black tie elegant event. Maybe you know your Big Day is going to be full of surprises - then check out balloon invites. The event details are revealed as soon as your invited guest blows up the balloon. Creative, fun, and definitely a fun surprise!

If you’re going for a more formal wedding, then create the perfect wedding package by sending an invite with a handkerchief or tea towel around the invite. You can use personalized handkerchiefs or you can find places January 2014

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

that provide a discount for purchasing a large quantity.

For the Bride and Groom who want to make a classic statement, then vintage movie poster invites are the latest craze.

Just imagine the two of you on an invite mimicking Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman or Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis.

Many couples are sending out savethe-dates that are magnetic. Open it.

Read it. Stick it on the fridge. It’s a daily reminder for your guests of your upcoming day. There are other ways to get the word out. You can now get scratch off save-the-dates. Your guest will open it and scratch off to the “where’ or “when” of your wedding.

Here is where the internet comes into play. Many people are now having guests R.S.V.P. to an email address. It can be your personal email or one you create just for your R.S.V.P’s. It works

great because you can copy and paste it and then use your computer to track who is coming and who is unable to attend. This will come in handy when it’s time for you to write thank-you cards, as well. Everything is right on your computer - so there’s no paper hassle.

No matter how you get the word out – make sure you get all the important information out about two months prior to your Big Day!

Hearn GARAGE DOORS

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January 2014

( Toasts ) START STRONG  Giving a toast in front of a crowd may be nerve-racking. Avoid the jitters by practicing your speech ahead of time - and not the day before! Use your smartphone’s recording app to record your toast.

It will give you a good indication of how long your toast is and how fast or slow you are speaking.

Rememberpractice makes perfect!  With all eyes on you, guests may be wondering who you even are and how you know the Bride and Groom. Give a short introduction of who you are. Everyone wants to know who it is that is expressing their friendship and happy wishes to the couple.  You can’t give a toast without a glass in your hand - so make sure to bring a full glass up with you!

Raise

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

Your Glasses THERE ARE 5 “S”s TO REMEMBER WHEN GIVING A MEANINGFUL TOAST. REMEMBER “S” STANDS FOR SUCCESS – WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU’LL HAVE WHEN DELIVERING A MEMORABLE TOAST!

SINCERE AND POSITIVE  Use your natural sense of humor, but stay away from any inside jokes, any“wink wink” stories,and anything that may hurt or offend anyone.

Steer clear of any mention of any exes or embarrassing moments of the Bride or Groom. Remember that the most important people in the couples’ lives are listening!  Share uplifting stories or moments of the Bride and Groom. You are declaring a collective sentiment to the couple and wishing them well in their marriage.  Refrain from common love quotes or clichéd lines. Really think about why you are happy for the couple.

SPEAK FOR BOTH  You’re toasting the couple - not just one of them, and it’s not the time to talk about yourself. Even if you’re the best man and don’t know the bride that well, speak to and for both of them.  Sharing one or two anecdotes about your friendship with the Bride or Groom is fine, but you don’t need to provide a detailed

timeline of your relationship. If the Bride and Groom have asked you to do a toast at one of their most important days of their lives - it’s known that you already have a close relationship with them.

SIMPLE, SHORT, AND SWEET  Keep it simple. Keep it short. Limit your toast to around three minutes. Anything longer and you’ll start to lose the attention and the patience of the audience.  When mentioning any memories or stories — stay focused and to the point.

STAY CLEAR OF THE BAR  You’ve seen the embarrassing moments in movies when a maid of honor or best man has had too much to drink before giving their toast. If watching those moments are embarrassing, then living those moments would be a nightmare for you — and especially the Bride and Groom.  Wait to enjoy the evening. The bar can wait until after you’ve given your sincere toast to two wonderful people.

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( Hairstyles )

What’s the

Best Hairstyle for Your Face Shape?

WE’VE FOUND THE BEST ADVICE FROM PROFESSIONAL STYLISTS FOR THE BRIDE-TO-BE. THE BEST ADVICE OF ALL IS TO WEAR YOUR HAIR FOR YOUR FACE SHAPE. IT’S YOUR DAY - LOOK AND FEEL YOUR ABSOLUTE BEST! ROUND Kate Winslet Drew Barrymore Christina Ricci Fullness is key! To achieve this, choose hairstyles with fullness and height at the crown. Layers are also great to make your face appear slimmer. If you desire curls, then go for wide curls that flow beneath your chin.

SQUARE Demi Moore Sandra Bullock Isabella Rosellini Wispy bangs that will soften your face and boho curls will look great on you! Make sure to off-center parts with height at the crown. Continue with wispy curls around your face, and if going straight, then make sure to add lots of layers.

HEART-SHAPED Michelle Pfeiffer Lucy Lawless Ashley Judd A chin length bobbed hairstyle is perfect for you! Your great cheekbones should be emphasized. But don’t add too much height at the crown or this will take away from those cheekbones.

Shaggy layers are also great for your face shape.

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

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January 2014

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Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Bouquets )

E

very bride is unique. Every wedding is as much of an individual as the bride.Your personality and the inspirations of your wedding day will be seen in every detail of the day.Your bouquet is just as important as your dress. Choosing the right wedding bouquet may feel like a difficult task, but with some assistance you will see your floral accessories fall perfectly in to place.

The design, style and color of your bridal gown are all integral components when choosing floral designs. The color palette of your bridal party, their gowns and styling, enhance the floral theme.The floral designs should act as an accent to the color and style of your bridesmaid’s gowns.

Before starting the process of choosing your wedding flowers you may want to have these decisions in place to allow the floral design process to flow gracefully.

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CONSIDER THE SEASON Some flowers may not be available at the time of year that you are getting married. You don’t want to fall in love with one flower and be disappointed that the flower of your dreams cannot be found anywhere in for your March wedding day. Or just as bad, will set you back in budget due to the high cost because they are out of season.

MATCH THE COLOR Color is key. There are so many different shades of white… snow, ivory and cream are just a few. Speak with your florist and see what type of flower they would recommend that works with the exact color of your dress.

Don’t forget about your bridesmaid’s dresses. Most dress stores will have samples or swatches that you can take with you when consulting your florist.

Try to incorporate the exact material when possible. If you are wrapping your bouquet in fabric, ask for any fabric left

January 2014

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January 2014

over during alterations. You will be sure to have a perfect match!

BEAUTIFUL AND COMFORTABLE Your bouquet is your biggest accessory on your wedding day (after your groom, of course). Your bouquet doesn’t need to just be beautiful; it also has to be comfortable.You will be holding it for most of the day and want it to be with you in many of the photographs that will be taken. Try not to choose anything that is going to be difficult to carry or make you stand awkwardly.

After all the thought you’ve put into your bouquet you may not want to toss it! Preserve it and have the florist make a second bouquet, a smaller version for you to toss.You can keep your bouquet as a beautiful heirloom for years to come!

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

PERSONALIZE IT Ask family members for jewelry, like a brooch your grandmother wore, or earrings that were handed down to your mother. Add a small bow or gems to the bouquet handle. Place a tiny photo of a loved one who is unable to be there on your special day in a small, charm like frame on the handle of your bouquet. Ask your florist for any unique ideas that they have seen other brides do that really made that bouquet unique and special.

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( Makeup )

January 2014

All Eyes on YOU

YOUR EYES ARE THE WINDOW TO YOUR SOUL. MAKE THEM STAND OUT AND CAPTURE THE ATTENTION THEY DESERVE. Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

START WITH THE BASICS Like with anything, you need a good foundation. Apply an eye makeup primer to the entire lid. This will enable the eye shadows and liners to adhere to your lids - giving you a flawless look the entire day and into evening. Airbrushing the base for the eyes is also a great way to acquire a good base.

LUSCIOUS LASHES There’s no doubt there will be tears of joy! Make sure to use mascara that’s waterproof and smudge proof.

The best way to curl your lashes is to gently squeeze the curler instead of clamping down.

Another great thing to consider is using lash extensions. They will allow you to have long, gorgeous lashes without the worry of your mascara running. You can get lash extensions that look completely natural and blend with your real lashes.

LINE TO DEFINE Just like with mascara, you definitely want a waterproof liner. For a natural look, go with a brown liner and for bolder look, a black liner does the trick. Dark purple or navy can be used as an eye liner color if you want to pull out some of those shades from your bouquet or wedding theme. Practice using liner on your upper lash lining and the bottom lash lining to see which looks best for you.

BROW BASICS Nothing frames your face better than your brows! Get the shape that’s right for you by consulting a professional stylist or makeup artist. For most brides, full brows are recommended.

For a full brow look, use something as simple as a powder eyeliner or brown pencil. When using a pencil, always go a shade or two lighter than your own natural eyebrow color.A highlight color in pearl white or cream is perfect for making the brows look more defined and giving your face dimension.

{17} Suffolk News-Herald COMPLEMENTARY COLORS Complement your wedding colors with your eyeshadow instead of coordinating them.Your eyes will stand

January 2014 out better this way because colors won’t be clashing. Consider the color of your dress, bouquet, and overall theme or feel of your wedding when deciding

eyeshadow. A nice, neutral eyeshadow can often look more flattering and add just the right amount of glow to your look.

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography © NEWLYWEDS & YOUNG COUPLES...WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!

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( Wedding Cakes )

How Sweet It Is THE TRADITIONAL CAKE IS A STAPLE AT MOST WEDDING RECEPTIONS, BUT MORE AND MORE, COUPLES ARE OFFERING DIFFERENT DESSERTS AS A WAY OF GETTING GUESTS OUT OF THEIR SEATS – AND ENJOYING DELICIOUS TREATS!

T

rendy? We think they’re just tasty. Of course we’re talking about cupcakes! Think of them as mini wedding cakes – only fuss-free and easy on the budget.

They are much easier to transport.

Plus, you can have a variety of flavors, with choices for frosting. Decorate with chocolate, frosted flowers, fruit, or have them monogrammed. You can also decorate the papers they are baked in – which opens up a whole new level of creativity. Set out on a table or arrange on a multi-level stand.

Sundae bars are also becoming a favorite! Keep it simple with vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate, or go all out with unique flavors like Tiramisu, Deep Dish Cherry Pie, or Bailey’s Chocolate Chip. But the best part of a sundae bar – all the toppings! Serve everything from candy, fruit, nuts, syrups, and last but not least – whip cream and cherries! The way you present your sundae bar depends on the mood you’re looking to achieve.

Go for simple, a classic twist, or elegant. It all depends on how you decorate the backdrop, containers, labels, and spoons.

There’s nothing as American as pie! So if you’re having an allAmerican wedding or an outdoor country wedding, then pie is the perfect dessert for your guests to enjoy! More and more couples are asking for pie instead of cake. It’s less expensive than a wedding cake.

Plus, it’s a fresh idea, especially when serving pies made with fresh apples or berries.We can just imagine a kitchen full of family and friends baking pies and making sure the dessert at your reception is as good as how grandma always makes them!

So, instead of waiting to be served a piece of cake, guests can indulge their sweet tooth with these delicious alternatives. Plus, it gives you the room for creativity – and gives your guests room for seconds!

January 2014

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography Š

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