Brides & Grooms MT 2010

The Essential Guide to Planning your Upcoming Wedding

www.BridesandGroomsMT.com

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Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Event Planning Professional Staff

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At CaffĂŠ Firenze, register for packaged

wine gifts as part of your bridal registry.

t t c c e e f f r r e e p p e e h h t t g g n n i i d d d d d e e e w w w l u f ffuull i t u bea 281 Rodeo Dr. Florence, MT 406.273.2923 www.caffefirenze.com

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table of contents Countdown to a Fantastic Wedding . . . . . . . . 6

Invitations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Engagement Announcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Catering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Budget. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Cake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Venue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Wedding Announcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Beauty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Marriage License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Gifts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Flowers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Attendants Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Music. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Registry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Honeymoon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Rings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

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98 Cover photo by B2 Photography Brides and Grooms is a publication of the Missoulian, a division of Lee Enterprises. ŠCopyright 2010 by the Missoulian. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. For more information about advertising space in Brides and Grooms, contact Jacque Walawander at (406) 523-5271 or 1(800) 366-7193 ext 271. To request copies of Brides & Grooms, please email Holly Kuehlwein at holly.kuehlwein@lee.net or call 1(800) 366-7193.

Publisher: Stacey Mueller Art Director: Kate Murphy Lead Design: Megan Richter Production: Diann Kelly and Youa Vang

brides & grooms 2010 | table of contents

Editor/Project Coordinator: Holly Kuehlwein Advertising & Sales: Jacque Walawander, Jessica Fuchs, Jayne Lisi, Felicia Saunders and Linda Otway Sales Coordinator: Jessica Fuchs w w w .bridesandgroomsmt .com

w w w.bridesandgroomsmt.com

brides & grooms 2010

countdown to a fantastic wedding getting started ■

■

■

■

■ ■

■

■ ■

S hare the news of your engagement with your family and friends and announce it in the Missoulian. iscuss finances with everyone D contributing to the event and set a budget. et the date and ceremony/ S reception locations. If you’re set on getting married at a certain time of year, choose the date first, then the location. If you have your heart set on a specific venue, let that drive your decision. eet with the officiant or the M clergy at your church/temple/ mosque. stablish a guest list.

E tart interviewing wedding S planners/events designers, if you’re thinking of enlisting the help of one. tart thinking about the style and S theme of your wedding. tart shopping for a gown.

S

h yeah … If your parents O haven’t met, now would be a good time for that.

blue yonder photography

brides & brides & grooms grooms2010 2010 | countdown

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6-9 months

before your wedding

■ ■

Mail out Save-the-Dates I nterview and book your vendors – and don’t forget to get a signed contract:

■

Caterer

■

Baker

■

Florist

■

Photographer/Videographer

■

Musicians/DJ

■

Transportation

■

■

■ ■

■

■

C hoose your attendants and shop for their dresses.

O rder your stationery – invites, envelopes, thank-yous, etc.

Start looking into honeymoon locales.

G et your wedding Web site up and running, if you’re having one.

S chedule any beauty treatments you’re planning on having leading up to the wedding.

Register for gifts.

4-6 months

before your wedding

ook your hair/makeup help for the big day.

B ■ Make any final amendments to the guest list.

■ Plan the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

■ Help the moms shop for their wedding-day attire.

■ Shop for wedding bands with your fiancé ■ Find accommodations for out-of-town guests and reserve a block of rooms.

■ Finalize your honeymoon plans.

2-4 months

before your wedding

Start addressing invitations.

■ Buy attendants’ gifts.

■ Get the men’s fashions in order – groom, groomsmen and ushers.

■ Choose readings for the ceremony.

■ Select music for the ceremony/reception.

■ Check marriage license requirements.

■ Make sure your vendor contracts are complete.

■ Meet with your caterer to discuss menu and drinks.

■ Order the cake.

■ Pick out favors.

■ Plan and shop for welcome bags.

■ Arrange party rentals, if necessary.

■ Book your wedding-night room.

■

4-8 weeks

before your wedding

Mail out your invites.

Do a hair/makeup run-through.

■ Discuss insurance/bank account changes you’ll need to make.

■ Send ceremony programs and reception menu and place cards to be printed.

■ Write vows.

■ ■

■

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2-4 weeks

before your wedding

ubmit a shot list to your photographer and S setlist to your DJ. ■ Finalize the seating chart and prepare escort/ place cards.

■ Update registry.

■ Call anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d.

■ Confirm details with your vendors.

■ Get your final dress fitting.

■ Write a toast for the rehearsal.

■

countdown | brides & grooms 2010

logan photography

1 week

before your wedding

Give your caterer the final headcount.

■ Pick up your dress; break in your shoes.

■ Give scripts to your readers.

■ Pack for your honeymoon.

■ Find someone to transport heirlooms (candles, ■

glasses, cake knife) to and from the reception site.

■ Organize your wedding-day payments and decide who will distribute them.

1 day

before your wedding

Get a mani-pedi.

Enjoy the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

■ Get plenty of sleep.

■ ■

the big day

Keep your meals small and light.

Give yourself plenty of time for hair/makeup before the photographer arrives.

■ Give yourself a bit of time to relax before the big day.

Good luck! ©CTW Features ■ ■

brides & grooms 2010 | countdown

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t

engagement announcement

he Missoulian publishes engagement announcements in its Sunday edition.

The announcements are considered news stories and may be edited or held for questions. Announcements without a photo will appear free of charge; announcements with a photo cost $40 and payment must be made when submitting announcement. The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday for publication two Sundays out.

• Please type or print plainly.

• First and last names are required for all

persons mentioned in the announcement.

•M ake sure all names are spelled correctly.

• Photos may be black and white or color. The size does not matter as long as they are sharp, clear glossy prints with the couple’s heads close together.

Photos may also be emailed in JPG format. No photocopies will be accepted.

Photos can either be picked up after the announcement has appeared in the Missoulian or mailed if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is enclosed.

P.O. Box 8029, Missoula, MT 59807 Email: mgerber@missoulian.com Toll free: 1-800-366-7186 or 406-523-5240 • Fax: 406-523-5294 Name of Bride-to-Be _______________________________________________________________ Her Address ______________________________________________________________________ Bride-to-Be’s Mother & Address _____________________________________________________ Bride-to-Be’s Father & Address_______________________________________________________ Name of Groom-to-Be______________________________________________________________ His Address_______________________________________________________________________ Groom-to-Be’s Mother & Address ____________________________________________________ Groom-to-Be’s Father & Address_____________________________________________________ Date of Wedding___________________________________________________________________ Who is announcing this wedding?____________________________________________________ Couple ___________________________________________________________________________ Brides’ Parents ____________________________________________________________________ Groom’s Parents___________________________________________________________________ Person Submitting this Form ________________________________________________________ Contact Phone Number

Day_ _________________

Go digital! Put your engagement announcement on Missoula.com, Missoula’s social networking site. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Evening__________________________ missoulian.com

Every minute. Every day.

engagement announcement| brides & grooms 2010

got

o

money?

f course, you’re thrilled to be getting married, but you may be thinking: Do I have to do it now?

It’s not cold feet; it’s the cold reality that in this economy even super-slashed $5,000 or $10,000 “budget” weddings can seem extravagant, let alone what might be perceived as a “normal” wedding (The Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study puts the average wedding cost at $28,082; industry tracker The Wedding Report puts the 2009 average at $20,398).

Sure, money is a scary topic right now, but the budget rules that have always applied to weddings remain the same: Establish a budget; stick to it; and throw a fabulous wedding.

1905 W. Broadway www.montanadollar.com

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brides & grooms 2010 | budget

crunching the numbers

Before you go looking for a fantastic venue or that perfect dress, you have to know what you’re working with. Nearly 20 percent of brides’ parents pay for the wedding outright, but 8 percent of brides foot the bill themselves, according to the Brides.com study. Talk with both of your parents to see what they may be contributing, and then look at your own finances and see what’s doable on your end.

There’s no right or wrong number here; whatever dollar amount you come up with will be able to give you an amazing wedding. The key is prioritizing your spending. Most of the bridal magazines you’ll be dog-earing over the next few months have budget guides in them; check them out and see how those breakdowns

Explore Montana 800-892-4343 • 406-542-2311

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

blue yonder photography

work out for you. As you’ll find out, there are plenty of areas where you could spend a ton of money. Pinpoint the top three or four areas you want to focus on, be it all-star food and drinks, a great DJ or a special dress. Then create a wish list for wants beyond that. As your guest list firms up (and costs go down), grant yourself wishes.

More than half of brides expect to use their credit card to help pay for their wedding, according to the Brides.com study, which isn’t necessarily bad. Credit cards are a

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

valuable tool, as long you use them wisely, says financial expert Jean Chatzky, author of “The Difference: How Anyone Can Prosper In Even the Toughest Times” (Crown, 2009). What’s wise? “Not carrying debt on the card,” Chatzky says. If you plan to use your card to cover wedding expenses, charge only things that you can pay for that month. And pay the bill on time and in full. You want to remember your wedding because it’s the greatest day of your life, not because it sent you into debt.

© CTW Features

budget | brides & grooms 2010

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brides & grooms 2010 | budget

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starting off

y

right

our wedding marks the first day of your married life – and your new financial life. And just like your relationship, communication is key to success.

“When you meet somebody and get married, one thing you hopefully do together is share some dreams of what you want in the future,” says financial expert Jean Chatzky, author of “The Difference: How Anyone Can Prosper In Even the Toughest Times” (Crown, 2009), such as buying a home. Setting those benchmarks is the basics of financial planning: What do you want to do, and how do you get there? Then, make saving every month a part of what you do to reach those goals.

“I like to do that with a Yours, Mine and Ours system of accounts,” Chatzky says. The gist: Determine what you need to both run your household and save for your goals, and each person contributes – from their own account into a shared account – the same percentage of income to get that number.

This gives you the ability to pay bills out of a joint account and leaves some autonomy for personal expenses.

To get a handle on your money, Chatzky suggests tracking your money – every dollar – for a couple of months. You’ll develop a roadmap of where your money is going and where you want it to go.

Hopefully that leads to more saving.

But don’t think you have to go from saving nothing to saving 10 percent of your income; start small, says Chatzky. What detracts some folks from saving is thinking they have to do so much, and if they can’t do that they do nothing. And that’s not where you want to be.

–Timothy R. Schulte, © CTW Features

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Start Your New Life on the Right Path Your future holds many changes, and they’ll probably involve some big financial decisions.

Let us help!

You can count on our honesty and reliability to guide you through whatever lies ahead.

More than you expect 523-3300 / www.missoulafcu.org

budget | brides & grooms 2010

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budget worksheet description

budget

paid

balance due

Engagement Party ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Wedding Consultant ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Ceremony ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Reception ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Photographer ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Videographer ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Music for Ceremony ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Music for Reception ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Florist ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Caterer ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Rental Supplier ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Bridal Gown ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Veil/Headpiece/Accessories ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Invitations/Stationary ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Favors ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Wedding Supplies ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Honeymoon ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Wedding Cake/Cake Top ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Shower ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Rehearsal Dinner ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Jewelers ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Formal Wear ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Limousine/Transportation ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Decorations ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Beauty (hair, etc.) ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Attendants’ Gifts ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Marriage License ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Gown Preservation ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Miscellaneous ___________________________________________________________________________________________ 1905 W. Broadway www.montanadollar.com

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brides & grooms 2010 | budget worksheet

Explore Montana 800-892-4343 • 406-542-2311

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

budget | brides & grooms 2010

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location,

location, location

by Greg Martin for Brides & Grooms

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brides & grooms 2010 | venue

mike williams Photography

t

hree important words weddings have in common with real estate: location, location, location.

Finding the right place for the size and scope of a wedding and reception - a venue that will meet the needs of guests and still reflect the spirit of the couple while staying in budget - can be a complicated, thought-provoking process.

But in a town as unique as Missoula, the biggest hurdle may not be figuring out a good place to hold a wedding and reception, but rather choosing the best place among all the options. With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop for virtually any possible location, quality scenery is almost a given. And with the variety of original and charming venues that Missoula offers, locations with plentiful scenic and attractive man-made amenities are also in good supply.

There have been weddings and receptions at the Missoula Children’s Theater, the Governor’s Room in the Florence Building, The Roxy, the Gibson Mansion, and, as Mary Anne Stimpfling can attest, their own backyards. Stimpfling, a photographer for A-Street Photography, has taken pictures for a number of Missoula weddings.

“I believe Montanans have some of the the classiest backyard weddings ever,” she said.

A home wedding is appealing for people who want a location with direct significance to their life. For some people who attended the University of Montana (UM), the campus is also a place that holds special personal importance – not only is it a scenic location where they spent years getting an education, it’s often the very place where the couple met.

UM Conference and Event Planner Shannon Earley said one of the most popular sites to get married on campus is The Oval in front of Main Hall. There are many appealing attributes to the spot, perhaps the most sensible is the fact that the university does not charge a fee to get married there.

“The Oval is nice because it’s free,” she said. “And it’s a fancy backdrop.”

Many couples who get married on the Oval decide to stay on campus for the www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

reception and have it held in the University Center Ballroom. UM catering is available to provide the food and drinks and they have the flexibility of food choices to meet the needs of small and large weddings with full meals or light snacks.

In fact, several people have had both their wedding and reception in the Ballroom.

The multi-purpose room works well on summer days that are too hot as well as for increasingly popular winter weddings.

Renting the Ballroom includes a stage, tables, chairs, coat racks and a screen. They also offer special lighting and sound services.

But the Oval and the Ballroom aren’t the only places on campus for a wedding. Some smaller weddings, Earley said, can also be held at the Phyllis Washington Amphitheater right below the trail to the M, the Mansfield Library Mall, and the University Center Atrium. And while many who are drawn to the campus have a connection with the location, it is open to anyone who wants to get married or have their reception there, she said.

Another spot rich in scenery and history is the Northern Rockies Heritage Center

on the Fort Missoula grounds. With its wide open spaces, the Center can be the site of a historical or military themed wedding on the Parade Grounds – which includes acres of wide open, lush lawns or the more intimate South Lawn area with its courtly evergreens.

In addition, the historic and recently restored Heritage Hall, a 2,100 square foot area in the 1906 neo-classical building, is also a big draw.

Missoula resident Sydney Stauffer had her wedding reception at Heritage Hall in August of 2009. She said she chose it because of its historical qualities and the fact that it was an indoor/outdoor area which could meet the needs of all ages of guests.

“We wanted room for kids to blow their bubbles and have fun but we also wanted a place where the older people could feel comfortable,” she said.

The indoor/outdoor aspect proved particularly useful on that day because it rained during the time of the reception dinner and then the sun came out about the same time the meal was over – complete with a rainbow to greet everyone.

“Who would have thought it would have rained in August,” she said.

Time...

A Specialeserves D a Special Place... . Views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains . 24-Hour Indoor Pool, Spa and Fitness Center . FREE Breakfast Buffet with Fresh Waffles . Grand Ballroom . Group Guest Rooms . Beautiful Outdoor Setting . Romantic Honeymoon Spa Suite with Fireplace

139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr. Hamilton, MT 59840

For Reservations: 877-274-8274 www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

406-375-2525

• bitterrootriverinn.com venue | brides & grooms 2010

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Another plus to renting Heritage Hall, Stauffer said, was that they had it for the entire weekend from the rehearsal dinner on Friday to the goodbye brunch on Sunday.

For a downtown Missoula wedding, it’s hard to imagine one more centrally located than Caras Park. The site for many a community festival and a riverside view to boot, Caras Park offers both a large covered area and grassy hills and lawns for enjoying the sun.

Missoula Downtown Association (MDA) Assistant Director Julie Weaver said people who rent the park for weddings and/or receptions get tables, chairs, outdoor walls and a stage set up and then taken down by their staff. The dynamic area of the space and the openness of catering rules provides flexibility for use, she said.

“We don’t have any catering restrictions,” she said. “It’s a nice outdoor venue but you

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brides & grooms 2010 | venue

still have the canopy there.”

The wedding season for Caras Park typically begins in May and runs through the end of September.

The park has a variety of areas for the wedding to be held mike williams photography including the grassy circle in front of the outdoor stage where the wedding party will walk up from the river trail.

Ideally Weaver recommends interested couples contact the MDA for a reservation six to twelve months ahead of time as availability gets tight the closer to spring, although she said they can always call and check at any time.

Aside from the lack of catering restrictions, Weaver said people also like the fact that they get the park for the whole day without any scheduling pressure to get in and get out.

“Once you rented it, it’s yours for the day. If you want to get in and decorate at 8 a.m., you can,” she said.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

questions to ask your church’s officiant

Deschamps Photography

1. If you and your fiancé have two different religious backgrounds, can you be married at that site? If you choose, can more than one officiant take part in the ceremony (one from each religion)?

2. If you and your fiancé were previously married, are there any restrictions?

3. What are the restrictions for flowers, dress, videographer, photographer, music, decorations?

4. Who else is scheduled before/after me?

Will I have time to take pictures?

5. Are separate dressing rooms available before the ceremony?

6. Can bird seed, rice or confetti be thrown?

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

7. When can the florist and videographer set up prior to the ceremony?

8. How many guests can the church accommodate?

9. Does the ceremony site supply equipment that can be used for the ceremony?

10. Will the church have any special decorations or flowers displayed on your wedding day that may enhance or clash with the wedding?

11. Can I use my own musician(s) or vocalist(s)?

12. When does the marriage license need to be presented?

venue | brides & grooms 2010

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reception sites in western montana

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brides & grooms 2010 | venue

logan photography

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Alberton Gorge Ranch/ Montana River Guides

25 minutes west of Missoula, 777-4837 or 1-800-381-7238 www.montanariverguides.com Beautiful 40-acre ranch on the Clark Fork River. Two custom log cabins, large cedar barn & hay barn available. Up to 100 person capacity. Ranch style BBQ & custom catering available.

American Legion

Post #27, 825 Ronan, Missoula, 543-7391 One room available, seating up to 300.

Provide own catering, full kitchen and full bar facilities available, tables and chairs provided, must bring own alcohol.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Belton Chalet

PO Box 206; 12575 Hwy 2 East, West Glacier 888-5000 • 1-888-235-8665 www.beltonchalet.com events@beltonchalet.com The Belton Chalet offers full service catering, professional event planning, and views of Apgar Mountain from our fully restored historic property. 25 room hotel and 2 cottages accommodate 62 guests.

Events for up to 130.

Best Western KwaTaqNuk Resort

Flathead Lake, 800-882-6363 Imagine sharing your wedding day with family and friends aboard Flathead Lake’s only 65 ft passenger cruiser! 149 of your closest guests, beautiful scenery, privacy, catered food and beverage all aboard as the captain cruises the south end of Flathead Lake! Or indoor accommodations for up to 250 guests. Dance floor, Tiki Bar, full catering staff.

venue | brides & grooms 2010

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Bigfork Mountain Lake Lodge

14735 Sylvan Dr., Bigfork, 837-3800 www.mountainlakelodge.com 30 fireplace suites with spectacular views.

Flathead Lake, 2 restaurants - Riley’s Pub & Sports Bar, Terra Steakhouse. The perfect place for rehearsal dinners, small weddings and receptions. Honeymoon suites. Located 5 miles south of Bigfork, in Woods Bay.

Bitterroot Banquet & Ballroom

4828 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 239-6661 www.partydecor.net partydecor@centric.net Affordable elegance. Can comfortably accommodate 100 people indoors; includes adjacent outside area with space for a large tent so you can enjoy views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains.

Keep within your budget by choosing your own source for food and drink. Only 25 minutes from Missoula.

Bitterroot River Inn and Conference Center

139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr., Hamilton, 375-2525 www.bitterrootriverinn.com Grand ballroom seats 200 for dinner, stand-up reception 300. Beautiful outdoor pond & patio area for ceremony. Must provide own catering.

Broadway Inn

Broadway Inn Conference Center 1609 W. Broadway, Missoula, 532-3300 www.broadwayinncc.com Full service catering facility with bar service.

Indoor banquet facility seats 165 people, beautiful outdoor courtyard setting seats 175. 79 well-appointed guest rooms.

Caffè Dolce

500 Brooks St., Missoula 380-3055 www.caffedolcemissoula.com We offer a fabulous room, a seasonal patio, and food and wine for people who love food and wine. Professional pastry in house. Up to 100 people. Seasonal minimums apply—call for details.

Caffe Firenze

281 Rodeo Dr., Florence 273-2923 Seats up to 60 comfortably. Ideal for rehearsal dinners or small receptions.

Intimate, old world charm.

Camp Paxson

4200 Boy Scout Rd., Seeley Lake 728-1911 www.mctinc.org mct@mctinc.org Camp Paxson is located on the shores of Seeley Lake, nestled between the Swan and Mission Mountain Ranges. The camp is a beautiful outdoor location venue, ideal for weddings and receptions.

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brides & grooms 2010 | venue

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

• Elegant surroundings, perfect for ceremonies and receptions • Experienced and professional event planning • Complimentary personalized web page • Special guest room rates

Everything. Right where you need it.®

3720 North Reserve Street, Missoula MT 59808 406 532 5300 www.missoula.HGI.com

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

venue | brides & grooms 2010

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Caras Park Pavilion, Downtown Missoula

Missoula Downtown Association, 543-4238 www.missouladowntown.com Set on the banks of the Clark Fork River. Covered facility, open April through October, seats up to 500, adaptable sides, stand-up reception much larger, bring your own caterer & liquor.

The Daly Mansion

251 Eastside Highway, Hamilton, 363-6004 www.dalymansion.org Historic mansion located 45 minutes from Missoula. Sits on 25 acres between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain Ranges.

Seasonal outdoor venue for ceremonies and receptions for 500 people and a small year-round indoor venue for 50.

deschamps photography

Elegance experience the of the

The Davenport Hotel and Tower

10 South Port St., Spokane, WA 99201, 800-899-1482; 509-455-8888 www.thedavenporthotel.com eaverill@thedavenporthotel.com Since 1914, the Davenport Hotel and Tower has offered brides ornate ballrooms, exceptional service and unique flowers from its flower shop.

Let our staff exceed your expectations to create the fairy tale wedding of your dreams.

Doubletree

100 Madison, Missoula, 542-4615 Ballroom breaks into five banquet rooms, seats up to 600, stand-up reception up to 800, in-house catering, full bar.

Conrad Mansion M u S E u M

• Beautiful Landscaped Grounds • Elegant Gardens • Conveniently Located • National Historic Site Grounds & Interior available for Social Gatherings

CAMP PAXSON CAONMSPEELEY PALXAKE SON ON O N

SEEELEY ELEY LA AKE KE

406.755.2166

www.conradmansion.com Kalispell, Montana Located 6 blocks off Main on 4th St. East and Woodland Ave.

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brides & grooms 2010 | venue

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El Cazador Mexican Restaurant

101 S. Higgins, Missoula, 728-3657 VOTED BEST MEXICAN. Small room available for intimate gatherings. Call for more information.

El-Mar Gathering Place

3450 Tina Ave., Missoula, 549-0881 One room available, seating up to 70.

Provide own catering & alcohol, full kitchen facilities available. Deposit required.

Emmanuel By Blue Mountain 4907 Blue Mountain Rd., Missoula 251-6874 emmanuel@ebcmissoula.com Beautiful setting inside and/or outside for wedding and/or reception. Other services also available.

Hampton Inn Kalispell

1140 Hwy. 2 West, Kalispell 755-7900 • 1-800-HAMPTON www.kalispell.hamptoninn.com Perfect for intimate receptions, rehearsal dinners and guest room blocks. Beautiful hot tub suites available for your first special occasion. We’ll make your stay a truly memorable one.

Hellgate Lodge at the Elks

Pattee & Front St., Missoula 549-0542 or 543-7512 Two banquet rooms. #1 seats up to 180. #2 seats up to 311 comfortably.

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell 1840 US Hwy 93 S, Kalispell 756-4500 www.kalispell.hgi.com laurie.otto@hilton.com Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell-an exquisite backdrop for your Ultimate Dream Wedding Ceremony, Reception and Rehearsal Dinner.

Impeccable service with attention to detail.

Accommodating 10-700 attendees. Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern and Silver Canyon Casino! www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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Hilton Garden Inn Missoula

3720 N. Reserve St., 532-5300 www.missoula.hgi.com autumn.kozimer@hilton.com Elegant & sophisticated setting for ceremonies, receptions, dinner, dance.

Custom menu planning (we provide all food & beverage). Special discounted guest room rates available (minimums apply).

Holiday Inn Downtown at the Park

200 S. Pattee St., 531-2045 www.himissoula.com mholmes@himissoula.com Holiday Inn Missoula-a picturesque setting awaits you on parkland alongside the Clark Fork River. Perfect for your Montana Dream Wedding, Ceremony, Reception and Rehearsal Dinner. Outstanding service with impeccable attention to detail. Accommodating 10-700 attendees outdoors on the Park, in our Big Sky Atrium or Garden City Ballroom!

Swan River Inn

Il Villagio Park

281 Rodeo Dr., Florence 273-2923 Can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Tents, tables, chairs, catering and bar services available.

Izaak Walton Inn

290 Izaak Walton Inn Road, Essex 888-5700 www.izaakwaltoninn.com stay@izaakwaltoninn.com This historic railway lodge is located near Glacier National Park. Featuring rooms, cabins & caboose lodging, catering and bar. The outdoor pavilion nestled beneath towering pines makes for an ideal location for a special Montana wedding.

Kandahar Lodge with CafĂŠ Kandahar

3824 Big Mountain Rd., Whitefish (800)862-6094; 862-6098 www.kandaharlodge.com jennifer@kandaharlodge.com Located at Whitefish Mountain Resort, this intimate European-style lodge offers an elegant lobby and gourmet restaurant suited to wedding parties of less than 100 people. Design your own menu suited to your tastes and budget.

Linda Vista Golf Course Reception Center

4915 Lower Miller Creek Rd., Missoula 251-3655 or 251-4184 One banquet room, seats up to 150, beer & wine available, bring your own caterer.

Lolo Community Center Swan Events and Rooftop Gardens Banquet facility for all occassions 406.837.2328 grit@montanasky.net swanriverinn.com 360 Grand Ave., Bigfork, MT 59911 26

brides & grooms 2010 | venue

12345 Highway 93 South, Lolo, 273-2271 www.lolocommunitycenter.info Seating up to 280. Includes kitchen and gazebo.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Kristine Paulsen photography

Lost Horse Creek Lodge

1000 Lost Horse Rd., Hamilton Reservations: 800-ST-Horse 363-1460 www.losthorsecreeklodge.com Lost Horse Creek Lodge - weddings in a beautiful & unique forest setting. 120seat formal dining hall with full restaurant service. Casual dining room for up to 50 people, extensive outdoor decks.

Deluxe mountain cabins available for up to 60 guests. Multiple wedding options & packages.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Marshall Mountain

5250 Marshall Rd., Missoula 258-6000 www.marshallmountain.com marshallmountain@live.com Only 10 minutes from Missoula, but a world apart. Private - no car or city noise.

Pristine - beautiful alpine setting. Flexible - Do it your way. Your choice of catering, music, beverage service. Any size group - 2 to 2000.

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dax photography

MCT Center for the Performing Arts

200 N Adams St. 728-1911 www.mctinc.org mct@mctinc.org Located in downtown Missoula, the MCT Center for the Performing Arts is a fantastic venue for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and parties.

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The Mezzanine at Montana Harley-Davidson

5106 East Harrier, Off I-90 and Airway, Missoula, 721-2154, 800-431-2453 www.mtharley.com andrea.woodahl@mtharley.com This lovely venue is adorned with historic photos; featuring a built-in bar with two full-service kitchens, and private restrooms.

Provide your own catering and liquor. Seats up to approximately 250 guests, 400 standing.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Mission Mountain Resort

Polson, 883-1883 www.polsonmtresort.com Receptions and rehearsal dinners. Large deck, catering available. Provide own alcohol.

Montana Island Lodge

2433 Highway 83, Seeley Lake, 888-773-2643; 677-3620 www.montanaislandlodge.com Our exclusive location is perfect for everything you want your wedding to be: memorable, exclusive, fun for all your guests, and easy to plan. Overnight accommodations, on-site catering and event planning are only a few of our amenities.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Northern Rockies Heritage Center

Fort Missoula, Heritage Hall - Parade Grounds, 396-4750 2100 sq. ft. ballroom auditorium in neoclassical Post Headquarters with doors opening to deck and 6 acre Parade Grounds. Lower-level catering kitchen, lounge/historic photo gallery, dressing room. Can accomodate up to 200 guests.

Included in $1075 fee: free use of in-house tables and chairs for 200; Friday PM setup.

All day Saturday: Sunday clean-up.

Ogren Park Allegiance Field

700 Cregg Lane, Missoula, 543-3300 www.missoulaosprey.com jamoss@missoulaosprey.com Located along the banks of the Clark Fork River in beautiful downtown Missoula.

We can accommodate anything from weddings and receptions to bachelor and bachelorette parties. On-site catering as well as beer and wine service is available for your special occasion.

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Orchard Homes Country Life Club

2537 S. 3rd St. W, Missoula, 327-8524 Historic country charm for weddings, receptions and rehersal dinners.

Hardwood floor in the main room.

Adequate kitchen and bar area for your caterer. Seating for 175, standing capacity of 250. Stage, piano, changing room, outdoor stone fireplace and tent area.

Quality Inn & Conference Center

Robbins Roost

4375 Hwy 93 South, Missoula 251-4167, 370-9264 joannerobbins01@yahoo.com Beautiful rural setting for intimate outdoor gatherings of up to 100 from late spring thru autumn and into fall.

This inviting space is located near Missoula with ample parking available.

Changing rooms for wedding party and coordinating services provided upon request. Catering/beverage service your responsibility. Let’s make your wedding a special memory.

3803 Brooks Street, Missoula, 251-2670 Conference center with 10 meeting rooms, the largest holds up to 200 people.

The Ranch Club

8501 Phantom Way, Missoula, 532-1000 Delicious food, signature drinks, notable wines, a range of world cuisines, showcasing our celebrated menu, serving intimate gatherings to celebrations for over 300. Our Event Barn interior is true “Montana chic” surrounded by panoramic views.

maureen roy photography

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blue yonder photography

<RXU 0RQWDQD :HGGLQJ $GYHQWXUH Outdoor Wedding Parties and raft trips at Montana River Guides’ beautiful 40 acre Alberton Gorge Ranch on the Clark Fork River • Perfect for parties, rehearsal dinners or BBQs • Montana’s best whitewater & scenic raft trips

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www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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St. Anthony Parish Life Center Staybridge Suites Missoula 217 Tremont, Missoula, 543-3129 New air-conditioned facility, seating capacity 300. Full commercial kitchen, restroom, showers, ground floor access.

Tables, chairs, setup and computergenerated seating chart provided. Use your own caterer and beverages.

Snowbowl Ski & Summer Resort

1700 Snowbowl Rd., Missoula 549-9777 www.montanasnowbowl.com For a wedding & reception high above the ordinary, Snowbowl offers indoor or outdoor seating for 100-300 guests. Last Run Inn has a full service bar with a variety of catering options.

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120 Expressway, 830-3900 www.staymissoula.com sales@staymissoula.com 1000 sq. ft. ballroom, seats 60, catering available. All suites hotel with kitchens.

Billiards room, movie theatre, basketball court, pool, spa, fitness, high speed internet, free breakfast, and reception TueThur.

Stevens Ranch

Florence 273-2923 Can accommodate up to 400 guests.

Tents, tables, chairs, catering and bar services available. The beautiful Bitterroot Valley offers the perfect backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. If rustic elegance is your goal, this is the perfect venue.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

UM Stadium Club, Washington Grizzly Stadium

University of Montana, Missoula, 243-2213 Weddings - Receptions - Rehearsal Dinners. Field Weddings available.

Inside seating up to 100. Outside seating available. Full food and beverage service available by UM Catering.

University Center, The University of Montana

32 Campus Dr., Missoula, 243-4115 www.umt.edu/uc/events The University Center offers a beautiful hardwood floor ballroom with banquet seating from 50 to 450+ year round. The UC offers a full service facility including equipment, audio/visual services, on site award-winning catering and full bar service.

Western Montana Fairgrounds

1101 South Ave., Missoula Contact Joy Meader, 258-3238 Two year-round buildings, one seats 200, the other 299. One additional building available seasonally, which seats 500+.

Serving area only, bring your own caterer, bring your own liquor.

mike williams photography

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish 862-1704 www.skiwhitefish.com Get all the advantages of a pictureperfect outdoor wedding without having to compromise. With mountain-top ceremonies including views of Glacier National Park, rustic lodge-style reception facilities, full-service catering and more, Whitefish Mountain Resort is the one-stop shop for your perfect Montana wedding.

Weddings, Receptions Rehearsal Dinners

ission ountain Resort 883-1883 www.polsonmtresort.com

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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questions to ask when choosing a reception site 1. W hat rooms are available and how many people can they hold? Is there a minimum number of guests required?

Is there a time limit and any overtime charges?

2. Are there any other events scheduled before or after me?

3. What wedding packages are available, and what are the associated costs? Are there any other special services you offer?

4. Is there an in-house caterer, or do I need to hire my own? If I bring a caterer are there adequate kitchen facilities or when can the food be delivered?

5. When do you need a final head count?

What if more or less people show up?

6. How much of a deposit is needed to secure the room? When is the balance due, and how does it need to be paid?

7. W hat is the cancellation policy? Is the deposit refundable?

8. How will the room be set up and decorated? What can the reception site provide, and what do I need to bring?

9. When can these things be delivered?

Are there any restrictions on decorating?

10. What color linens are available? Can you get other colors?

11. When can the band or DJ set up?

How much room do you allow for the band or DJ? How many electrical outlets are there for the musicians? If I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a band or DJ, is recorded music available?

12. Is there a visible or secure place for gifts and the money box?

13. Who will be in charge of coordinating the reception?

Downtown Missoula

( ) * ' &&& ! % " #$ 34

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14. H ow many waitresses, waiters and bartenders will be available?

15. Is liquor allowed? Do you have a bar? Do I need to worry about a liquor license?

What are the bar options?

What is the cost per person?

Cost per bottle? If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a bar, can I bring my own?

16. Is there a room where I can put my personal things and change?

17. Where are the rest rooms?

18. Is there enough parking?

19. Is there handicapped access?

20. Does the facility carry liability insurance in case a guest is injured?

Mike Williams Photograph y

Weddings and Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Overnight Accommodations Everything. Right where you need it.

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406-756-4500 1840 US Highway 93 South Kalispell, MT 59901 www.kalispell.hgi.com Celine Michelle Photography

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n

getting in the

o matter how excited you are to wed the love of your life, running down the aisle in heels and a pricey gown might not be the smartest decision. Running before your big day, however, just might be – especially for those brides looking to slim down.

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routine

dax photography

“Cardio is the most important step.

You can’t start to tone your problem areas until you lose the fat that’s on top of them first,” says Katie Brumley, N.S.C.A., a fitness coordinator at the Baylor Tom Landry Fitness Center in Dallas. “Doing cardio for 30 minutes a day usually just maintains your current level. To lose the extra weight, increase it to 45 minutes to an hour and you will start to see results.”

In addition, Brumley encourages every bride-to-be do some heavy lifting beyond coordinating the flowers, food and finances.

“Women don’t have the level of testosterone that men do, so they won’t ‘bulk up,’” she says. “This is an excellent way to tone those problem areas and it will increase the amount of calories you burn as well.” Brumley also says to be sure and lift enough weight to fatigue the muscle. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

“If you are not feeling any fatigue then you aren’t lifting enough weight,” she says.

Perhaps tantamount to the fitness is nutrition, which tends to be where most women go to dangerous extremes.

“Starving yourself or starting a crash diet to shed as much weight as possible just to fit into your gown is a really dangerous decision,” says Angeline Widmer, a certified health counselor in Milwaukee.

“Consuming fewer than 1,200 to 1,400 calories a day, for most women, causes the body to go into crisis mode and store everything as fat. Which is the absolute last thing you want to do going into your wedding day.”

Widmer recommends keeping a food diary to make sure you don’t go above or below 1,400 calories a day. Stress eating is common during the wedding lead-up, and all of those unhealthy splurges consumed during moments of weakness really add up – and can sabotage your ultimate goal.

Widmer suggests swapping high-calorie snacks, such as candy, potato chips and ice cream with fresh fruit, pre-cut vegetables

57% of engaged women change their diet and nutritional habits before the wedding.

47% of brides increase time spent on their fitness routine and low-fat dairy.

“Weight loss and body toning don’t happen overnight so start early and don’t get discouraged if your progress seems slow,” Widmer says. “Developing these good eating and exercise habits will serve you well throughout your marriage. Being healthy for your entire life is even more important that being a size 4 on your wedding day.”

–Matthew M.F. Miller,© CTW Features

T O

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S P I R I T

Let the professionals at Sorella’s pamper you and your bridal party from head to toe for your wedding day with our wide array of spa services.

Groups welcome with reservations.

Gift Cards Available.

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MISSOULA

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simply

stunning

m

Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

omentous and magical occasions, weddings rarely come cheap. But in these tough times, many couples are finding sensible ways to trim extra expenses. Sure, maybe you’d forgo the favors or your favorite band, but no bride-to-be wants to sacrifice a premium personal beauty plan. Not to worry.

Here’s how to achieve seriously upscale style without a colossal time commitment or cashing in your 401(k).

simple, classic coiffure

A good rule of thumb for both ease and affordability is to avoid any style in which the hair is entirely up, like buns or pincurls, as they typically involve a lot of work, says Elizabeth Martinez, a stylist at Salon Pop, a Bumble and Bumble and Wella salon in Long Beach, Calif. “These styles require a really strong foundation to last the entire duration of a wedding.” Instead, opt for eternally elegant, vintage-inspired down-dos like loose Lana Turner waves or the half up/half down ’do quickly becoming a modern classic on the 38 brides & grooms 2010 | beauty

red carpet. These looks cost less at the salon but also are simple enough to be done at home. “But sometimes all a bride needs is a good blow-out and a carefully placed flower, decorative clip or comb to give it a timeless touch,” Martinez says.

Even if you’ve got the hairdo handled, visit your regular stylist as soon as you set a wedding date, as you may need to adjust your current cut or color to ensure your “raw material” is at its best on your big day. And to avoid any last minute laments, make sure you do a trial run well beforehand.

makeup made easy

The best bridal faces are time-honored looks that emphasize a single color theme and either the eyes or mouth. New Yorkbased Lancôme Celebrity Makeup Artist Daniel Martin has four favorites: ’40s Glam with a crimson lip and subtle eyes; Bronze Bombshell with a luminous complexion, shimmery eyes and neutral lip; Pretty in Pink with rosy cheek and lip and lots of lashes; and www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

Subtle Smokey Eye using tones of amber, gold and copper, paired with a glossy, neutral lip and sculpted cheeks.

beauty bargains

Before you blow your entire budget on one item at a high-priced makeup counter, pay a visit to your local drugstore.

“Waterproof mascara is a must for brides, and Maybelline Define-A-Lash is amazing!” says Martin. He’s also a fan of Aveeno’s skincare products, RoC Lifting and Firming Eye cream, Revlon Beyond Natural Smoothing Primer, Physician Formula: Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Blush and CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains.

For silky, manageable hair, Ion Color Defense Intense Moisture Hydrating Treatment, available at beauty supply stores and online, is affordable and great, says Martinez. Keep in mind that many high-end products often come in convenient – cheaper – travel sizes.

spa basics

Consider these services a two-for-one deal: silky, radiant skin plus serious stress relief.

Six months prior, commence beautification with deep scrubs to cleanse and polish the entire body and algae wraps or purifying mud masques to detox and firm skin, advises Cornelia Zicu, chief creative officer of Red Door Spas. As you get closer to your wedding, start limiting the extraction included in your facials to reduce risk of irritation, and switch to lighter massage to avoid lingering soreness. A week before, treat yourself to a soothing herbal soak or milk bath, eliminate extraction completely, don’t use new products and slather on an extrahydrating lotion. This also is the time to apply your favorite, tried-and-true self-tanner – just be sure to thoroughly exfoliate beforehand so that the color goes on evenly. Fans of waxing can go up to the day before. “It shouldn’t sting for more than an hour and you’ll feel smooth and sexy for your honeymoon,” says Zicu.

–Anna Sachse, © CTW Features

S pa Rediscover yourself.

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Call The Spa at The peak (406)251-8200 www.peakmissoulaspa.com www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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the dress: this is what it’s all about

m

aybe it’s a runway gown you fell in love with right away, or perhaps it’s your grandmother’s gown that you want to craft into a modern design for your strut down the aisle. Either way – old, new, borrowed or blue, the dress is the iconic wedding piece brides love most. And there’s no reason the hunt for the perfect gown should be anything but painless.

During your search you may hear the old adage that the more dresses you try on, the more you look the same. So instead of tackling the gown project for months and months, you may be best served by attacking a small window of time.

Like everything else wedding, your budget is vital to crossing the dress off of your planning list.

If you have a budget of $1,000 for your gown, there’s no sense in spending your time trying on a $3,000 gowns when you’re not going to be purchasing one and, more importantly, you could be trying on a dress that fits your budget and style. Stay focused until you find that perfect one.

Some dress shops may require appointments, so be sure to schedule your shopping extravaganza if needed. FYI, “closed shops” keep the dresses in

Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

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brides & grooms 2010 | attire

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a storage area off-limits to shoppers; a sales associate brings the gowns to you in a private fitting area. “Open shops” display the dresses on the sales floor.

chic styles

It’s easy to get misguided by

the models you see in magazines.

But remember: What looks good on another woman might not be the best look for you. This is the time to play up your strengths! Here’s a look at some of the modern styles and fabrics brides are going for:

strapless gowns

Paired with a swooping neckline, these perennial favorites give any bride a slimming silhouette. These dresses work well for brides with sloping shoulders, which may cause spaghetti straps to fall.

a-line gowns

Taking the place of the princess ball gown, these modern gowns hug the body through the bodice then flare out below the hip, accentuating the waist.

sheaths and columns

With narrower silhouettes in vogue, brides are embracing these looks that drape the female form in sophistication. This style begs for vintage-inspired lace overlays, such as corded or Chantilly lace.

short gowns

Designers are rolling out higher hemlines for a fun, fresh look, which work great on their own or as a second, “reception” dress. Designer Amsale even has a whole collection of “little white dresses.”

Price is dependent upon intricacy. The more lace, beading and embroidery a dress has, the pricier it will be. Today’s trends are gearing toward clean lines and minimal but www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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dramatically placed details; ornaments, mainly crystal and embroidery, are concentrated on bodices and hems. Consider these fabrics: Organza: A thin, sheer plain-weave fabric made from silk, its lighter feel makes it ideal for summer-style weddings.

Taffeta: A crisp, smooth woven fabric made from silk or synthetics that is known for its slight sheen and light weight. Thin enough for ruching, taffeta can add texture without bulk.

Tulle: A lightweight, fine netting that can be made from silk, nylon and rayon, which gives gowns stunning, flowing skirts.

Charmeuse: A lightweight fabric usually made from silk or polyester. It’s smooth, soft and drapes beautifully.

Chiffon: A plain, sheer woven fabric with a soft drape. It can be made from silk, polyester or rayon.

Dupioni: A plain weave using yarns to create a fabric with surface slubs. In silk, it has a distinctive rustic and sleek luster.

Georgette: A lightweight fabric usually made from silk or polyester that’s heavier and less transparent than chiffon. The fabric’s fibers are twisted, which gives it a springy quality.

Peau de Soie: Made from silk or polyester, this fabric is medium to heavy. Its dull luster is more flattering to curvier women than high-luster satins. Polyester peau de soie also doesn’t water-spot as easily as silk.

And don’t think you have to default to white, either. Shades of ivory and champagne are popular among brides looking for a nonwhite option, and they flatter most skin tones. White sometimes draws attentions to veins or makes certain skin tones appear jaundiced, which is why a bride might opt for one of the neutral tones, or even light pastels like pale yellow and pink. Colorful sashes and embroidery are another way for brides to add a splash of brightness to the big day. © CTW Features

Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

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Bridal Wear, Veils, Jewelry & Accessories Bridesmaids, Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Flower Girl Dresses Holiday & Evening Wear, Prom Dresses Lingerie & Sleepwear Tux Rentals

www.SimplyElegantMT.com www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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the

little white dress

This season, high style comes from higher hemlines. See why brides are going short for a chic look that lasts all day long

h

emlines may rise and fall along with the stock market, but brides aren’t following the custom of always wearing ankle-grazing, floor-length gowns in times of woe. As the economy weathers a perfect storm of crises – high gas prices, falling home prices and a liquidity crunch – there’s growing interest in shorter gowns, and companies such as Watters, Vineyard Collection and Tara Keely are including a few options in their collections. By no means do these cocktail numbers account for a large percentage of the offering, but they are becoming staples for the designers.

“Brides and grooms are less bound by

family tradition and are calling their own shots, wanting a freer, fun, flirty mood at the wedding, and these dresses reflect that,” says

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logan photography

Grace Young, a buyer at Bridal Galleria in San Francisco, a couture salon carrying Vera Wang and Amsale.

Young notes that about 20 percent of her customers are opting for destination weddings in seaside places like Hawaii and Mexico, which call for a different type of gown.

“When people are getting married on the beach, a place that’s warm, they want lighter fabrics and don’t want to drag the dress on the sand,” she says.

In response to consumer interest, designers are devoting new collections to shorter dresses.

Jim Hjelm Bridal, which already includes a few shorter gowns in its collection, is testing a shorter gown line for spring and depending on the response, plans to debut a full collection next fall. New York-based Amsale is working on an entire collection of shorter gowns called “Amsale Presents the Little White Dress,” targeting wedding-related events such as engagement parties and receptions. “The little black dress is what I wear when I’ve got a special event I need to look great for,” says Amsale Aberra, designer of her namesake line. “It is timeless and works in many different www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

situations. Similarly, our little white dresses will cover all the bases.”

Designers say there’s value in these shorter gowns. Dallas-based Watters & Watters has found a following with its tea-length options, including a strapless lace dress with daisy pattern flowers and a knee-length slimmer style crafted of cotton lace with a grosgrain ribbon sash. The looks can be less costly than their full-length counterparts, too. Watters’ dresses retail for $2,600 and the shorter dresses fetch $700 to $900.

“We see a little more versatility with these dresses,” says Maria Prince, vice president of Watters. “The girls can have an opportunity to wear them again, say out on their first anniversary or to a summer party, which is appealing in this economy.”

Other designers say older brides, ladies who are beyond the need to express themselves in princess ball gowns, are also responding to the look.

“Those in their late 30s don’t want the typical dress worn by a 24-year-old,” says Paul Diamond, chief marketing officer of New Yorkbased Jane Wang LLC. “They appreciate the sophistication of these shorter gowns. These are also very good dresses for second weddings.”

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Jane Wang has offered shorter dresses for the past two years. The line will include two or three new looks for the spring collection along with its breakout two-for-one dress – a gown with a long skirt that can be taken off, leaving behind a cocktail dress. This convertible dress will target brides who want to switch sartorial gears from the ceremony to the reception.

Some lucky brides are buying two dresses – one for the ceremony and the other for the reception – to really kick up their heels as the party heats up. Both Tara Keely and Jim Hjelm have created gowns appealing to these brides. Edric Woo, head designer of Tara Keely, introduced the line’s first short dress in fall, a sassy beaded sheath style with tiered lace that’s been popular. For spring, he’s adding an ivory bubble short dress with floral tulle, and Francesca Pitera, designer for Jim Hjelm, plans to include two to three new silhouettes featuring baby-doll and bubble styles made from organza and silk satin with floral embellishments.

Mark Brower, designer of Vineyard Collection, has always incorporated a couple shorter gowns in the collection and going forward plans to add more styles as brides continue to pad their dress budgets.

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“[Shorter styles] are very much in demand,” says Brower, who will design two cocktail gowns with fuller skirts in bateau and halter styles for spring. “It is a big trend to have a more formal gown for the ceremony and then change into a less formal gown or a short dress.”

Should brides not find their ideal shorter gown, a number of retailers and designers are willing to customize existing long gowns to their taste.

“If they have a dress they like, we can cut it down for them,” says Jane Wang’s Diamond. “It happens once in a blue moon, but you have to do things like that in this higher end of the business.”

Designer Farah Angsana is debuting a new collection for spring, featuring embroideries and beading, and plans to offer such custom services to her customers, as well. Along with longer gowns, the line will offer a couple shorter looks constructed from silk Mikado to silk chiffon with silver embroideries.

“It’s part of customer service to make the brides happy and feeling special,” Angsana says.

Watters’ Prince said there’s no skimping when it comes to accessorizing these fresh frocks, especially for those younger brides.

“They want to show off their $700 Jimmy Choos and have fun from the getgo,” she says.

Wedding experts agree that there is even more of an emphasis on accessories when it comes to shorter gowns.

“There’s more pressure to have knockout accessories,” says Darcy Miller, editorial director of Martha Stewart Weddings. “Shoes become a statement – you can wear blue shoes, embellished shoes, all different kinds of high heels.”

Miller cautions brides to select veils in proportion to their dress.

“A mini dress would look great with a chic blusher, but you wouldn’t want a cathedral-length veil,” she says.

-Nola Sarkisian-Miller © CTW Features 46

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phy a photogra Dawn Alici

you found those

g

where?

Bridesmaid dresses may pop up in familiar places

enerally, you’d go to Victoria’s Secret to secure a little something for the honeymoon, but as it turns out, the land of lingerie has some items to adorn your bridesmaids, too.

No, we’re not talking negligees.

At VictoriasSecret.com, a “bridesmaid” will produce a list of the apparel line’s dresses that also could work for putting your pretty maids all in a row. You can do the same thing at JCrew.com, which will display dresses from the company’s Wedding & Parties collection The dresses, most in solid colors but interesting

cuts and shapes, look just as elegant as something you might have chosen from a boutique but don’t always include a hefty, handmade price tag.

From above-the-knee to floor-length gowns, from traditional and demure to the somewhat risqué, there are styles to fit your personal taste.

The basic rule is to just keep your eyes open wherever you shop. If you see a dress you like that will also fits your maids’ style, it just might be the one. A “bridesmaid dress” doesn’t have to be a bridesmaid dress.

And the best part? Your bridesmaids will thank you for choosing a dress they can feel comfortable wearing to other occasions post-wedding. No one needs to know where you went, unless you feel like bragging about your unique find.

If Victoria can have a secret, why can’t you?

–Jessica Abels © CTW Features www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

blue yonder photography

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mad

j

ust shave and show up?

Keep dreaming. Today’s (much wiser) groom has a lot more to do than that.

Check that: Knows he has a lot more to do than that.

Whether it’s a 6-month engagement or 12-, there will be plenty of things to do, like deciding on the venue and addressing the invitations, to name a few. Sure, there are a few areas of planning – the DJ, the limo – that the groom traditionally takes care of, but with all the tools out there tailored for grooms (the Grooms 101 section of Brides. com; countless books) there’s no reason for not getting more involved with, well, everything. Being involved in the planning process will keep her smiling and the stress level low. Plus, you’ll have fun; who’s ever 48

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complained about sampling food and cake?

Her dress, however, is one area where the groom doesn’t get to voice an opinion.

Luckily, he has complete control over his bigday look.

If you want to keep it simple and go with a tux, get measured about three months before your wedding. Also be sure to get measurement cards sent out to your groomsmen and ushers.

If you’re thinking more along the lines of a suit, keep a few things in mind: • Dark ties always work (if you decide to not match the color of the bridesmaid dresses) • Tie bars and cuff links are a great way to add a bit of personal flash • If you feel informal by not wearing a tux, go for the three-piece look with a vest. It adds a www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

65% of grooms throw the bride’s garter Source: Brides. com 2009 American Wedding Study

Capture the moment photography

bit of panache to your look.

Lastly, if you need a bit help in the fashion department, pick up a GQ or look to some of your favorite on-screen guys to be your guide.

Don Draper (Jon Hamm) from

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“Mad Men” and 007 himself (Daniel Craig) both know how to clean up.

Channel them and you’ll be good to go.

–Timothy R. Schulte, © CTW Features

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Maureen Roy photography

fantastic

f

arrangements

rom bouquets to boutonnieres, flowers add those finishing details that can really make a guest say “wow.” But as amateur florists, brides-to-be are left to wonder everything from color schemes to pinpointing placement. When it comes to planning the floral elements of your big day, experts say to keep key photographs in mind and let your inspiration guide you.

florists’ guide to style

For Rebecca Henry, owner of Petal’s Edge Floral Design in Alexandria, Va., her

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inspiration comes from the colors and styles of each wedding. She recommends that brides flip through magazines to find actual arrangements so florists understand their preferred style. “Even if they don’t know anything about flowers, they can still communicate the “look” they are trying to achieve through design pictures and colors they find, and through communicating their own personal tastes,” she says.

Leanne Kesler, owner of the Floral Design Institute in Portland, Ore., advises brides to take their cues from Mother Nature. Gardens provide us with what works color-wise, Kesler says, adding that paint and hardware stores also offer an opportunity to mix and match colors with paint chips or swatches.

Your color choices also should depend upon your actual location. “It’s more advantageous to use lighter colors in a larger setting because dark colors will just recede and disappear,” Kesler says. “You can use bolder, darker colors in more intimate spaces.”

Experts recommend that brides choose one to three colors for floral designs. “They should also consider sticking with colors that are in the same spectrum, as in staying with only cool www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

74% of brides throw the bridal bouquet Source: Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study

colors, purples and blues, or warm colors, reds and yellows,” Henry says. “Combining colors that are completely opposite from each other in the spectrum, such as purple and orange, can result in a really strong statement.”

To avoid a color clash with your gals’ gowns, avoid trying to match the color of the bouquets to the dress. You’ll never find a perfect fit and the flowers won’t show up as well in photos, Kesler says. Try blending colors, choosing a vivid contrast or a direct complement to the dress’s color.

According to experts, green floral has become a very hot color trend this season. Teal also has become a popular choice, a mix of green and blue together.

You may want to choose colors depending on the season of your wedding. “In the fall, shades of red, orange and yellow are popular, as well as darker colors, like eggplant or chocolate brown with green. In the winter, blue and white or silvers and reds are nice,” Henry says.

petal details

Each member of the wedding party, as well as close relatives should have flowers. “Basically, the rule of thumb is that the members of your wedding party should have flowers. For the bride and her bridesmaids, bouquets; the groom and groomsmen should have boutonnieres,” Henry says. “Generally, parents and grandparents should get either corsages for the women or boutonnieres for the men.”

Create a focal point for your ceremony with a larger display and keep sight lines in mind for your reception. Each guest table should also have some kind of centerpiece. “If there is room in your budget, it’s nice to include an arrangement for the place card table and the buffet table, if there is one,” Henry says. “Other possible places to decorate include the cake, the aisle chairs/pews during ceremony, or something for the guest book table.”

–Mirielle Cailles, © CTW Features

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c

sounds of love

reating the right mood for your wedding has everything to do with the kind of sound you choose. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what you walk down the aisle to, or the music your guests groove to, choosing the right tunes will help create the ideal atmosphere for your big day.

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finding the right sound

When it comes to choosing the right vendor, experts recommend looking for music samples and recommendations. “When you’ve found a vendor that seems like a good fit, ask to hear examples of each of these ensemble types, or listen to some recordings on your own,” says Michael Reavey, owner of Michael Reavey Music in Boston. “Even check out a live performance of a local group to get a sense of the sound that might work for you.”

Experts also recommend following up with past clients or references. “If you can talk to other people about their experiences with different bands and DJs, their descriptions can really help paint a clear picture,” Reavey says. “It’s sometimes hard to see past glossy marketing, but if a DJ or group comes with good word of mouth and can deliver in person, it’s likely you’ll feel confident with your decision.”

If you’re on a budget, many music vendors usually are willing to work around them. Some vendors will charge less for a Friday or Sunday event or for one in the off-season. Couples also

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can consider on cutting down on the ensemble they choose, such as booking a duo or soloist instead of a larger group.

the ceremony

For any couple choosing ceremony music, each should consider sound and song selection. While the organ is the easy choice for church weddings, string quartets can offer a very elegant and classic feel, Reavey says. To add a little dramatic flair, consider including a trumpet. Flutes also can be paired with a harp or guitar.

“Vocals can usually be added to any combination of musicians,” Reavey says.

“There are even chances for atypical ensembles, I’ve even performed ceremonies where the formal music is performed by a jazz quartet.”

According to Reavey, the most popular

song for ceremonies is Pachelbel’s Canon in D. Other popular tunes include:

•“Jesu” •“Joy of Man’s Desiring”

•“Ode to Joy”

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•“Here Comes the Bride”

•“Trumpet Voluntary”

But brides can always get creative, and the options are endless. However, some religious traditions do have musical restrictions, so arrange an appointment with the music director at your place of worship to help you select tunes.

91% of weddings incorporate a first dance Source: Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study

the cocktail hour

Reavey recommends these three options for cocktail music: 1. Have the ceremony musicians, for instance a string trio, perform classical or jazz selections during the cocktail hour.

2. Hire a different set of musicians to perform for cocktail. Jazz piano is usually a good bet.

3. Have musicians from the reception band or the DJ play lighter selections before the party gets going.

the reception

couple’s personal preferences. The selection available to couples includes everything from Salsa bands to ’80s cover music.

Couples can even include a combination of both band and DJ. “Sometimes, a couple hires a jazz trio to perform during dinner, then switches to a DJ for dancing midway through the event,” Reavey says.

Whatever your preference, find the music that’s best for you. It’s out there.

–Mirielle Cailles, © CTW Features

As one of the most prominent elements of your wedding that most guests will remember, music choice should reflect every

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pre-event checklist

d

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on’t forget something along the way. Follow this pre-event checklist from Gigmasters.com: ■ Contracts – Make sure you and your performer/band/DJ have copies of the signed contract.

■ Directions –Provide your performer with the directions and phone numbers for the venue location.

■ Venue Specifics – Discuss in detail the venue specifics such as outlet locations, stage setup, etc.

■ Weather – Rain/weather contingencies should be discussed and agreed upon if applicable.

■ Song List – The song list, if applicable, should be discussed in advance.

■ Attire – Performer attire should be discussed and agreed upon in advance.

■ Food/Drink – Food and drink for the performer should be discussed and arranged in advance.

■ Overtimes – Overtime rates should be discussed and agreed upon in advance.

■ Final Payment – Final payment arrangements including method of payment (cash, cashier’s check, etc) should be discussed and agreed upon in advance.

■ Contact Info – Exchange cell phone numbers in advance of the event just in case.

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picture perfect in western montana

w

by Greg Martin for Brides & Grooms hen the cake has been eaten, the dancing is done, the friends and family dispersed, the chairs and tables picked up and put away, how a wedding stays immortal is through the memory of the participants and, more concretely, the photographs (and videos) from the event. Deciding how to capture and keep those visual reminders is something carefully considered.

“I see the wedding album as the first family heirloom,” said Missoula professional photographer Crackle Bingham of Crackle Photography.

The best way for her to help the couple get the pictures they’re looking for, she said, is

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to sit down and get to know them.

So many publications try to tell couples what they should do for photos when, according to Bingham, it should be the couple that lets the photographer know what to do.

“I ask them, ‘What’s important for you? What do you want to have remembered,’” she said. “I think it’s important to not lose the perspective of who you are.”

“A” Street Photography in Missoula operates much the same way. Photographer Mary Anne Stimpfling said an interview with the couple ahead of time is essential and they strive to make sure they meet at least one to three months before the wedding to get an idea of what the event and the character of the couple will be like.

“An interview serves a couple of purposes,” she said. “It lets the couple know how we work and it tunes us into how they work.

Couples have more and more great ideas for what they want.”

Bingham also said she likes to develop a relationship with the couple and their families. It helps her get to know the idiosyncrasies and the character of the people she’s photographing and it’s what she enjoys about developing her artistry. She said she almost always develops friendships with the bride which helps her decide whether or not it’s appropriate to try something different.

“Brides that come to me like the more candid, natural aspects,” she said.

“What I decide to do depends on their

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dechamps photography

personality and because I’ve spent time with them.”

It also makes it easier for her to find out if there are any awkward family issues so that she’s not putting people together in a photo who have a history of animosity. She said every photographer should know of any major family issues beforehand to avoid uncomfortable circumstances.

While going to a professional photographer may cost more than

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using a family member or a photo hobbyist, Crackle said a professional photographer will know what to do when the lighting changes unexpectedly from the weather or will have backup equipment if something breaks. They also know how to re-touch images in case, for example, the bride’s uncle is caught with a piece of spinach stuck to his teeth.

“It’s important to know (the photographer) can deal with it,” she said.

One example of unexpected lighting and environment change happened this past August 15th. Bingham was at a wedding up at Snowbowl and the weather took an unusual turn for western Montana in August – it poured rain.

“We had to use the sun umbrellas on the deck as rain umbrellas,” she said.

Stimpfling and fellow photographer Sara Wiesemann do considerable scouting ahead of time at the site (or sites) of the event to get a feel for the lighting and scenery. In addition, they get a list of the vendors and the name of the person providing over the deschamps photography services to make sure they respect their process. It’s also important for them to know how the ceremony will unfold.

“It definitely makes the wedding day go more smoothly if you’re there at the rehearsal,” Wiesemann said.

In terms of lighting, Stimpfling and Wiesemann said outdoor summer evenings are the best. The worst?

“Never have a wedding at noon facing south,” Stimpfling said.

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Dawn Alicia Photography

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maureen roy photography

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“A” Street and Crackle like to combine both the formal group photos with the more candid, personal moments. Wiesemann and Stimpfling always go to the weddings together, both because they have more fun that way and so that “A” Street can be at more than one place at a wedding at a time.

“That way we can capture all of the details,” Wisemann said.

In fact, Stimpfling and Wiesemann said, sometimes the moments when things don’t go according to plan make for the most memorable and enjoyable photos, even if it throws the bride for a loop.

“Most of them take it stride,” Stimpfling said. “They usually see it as a nuance of a beautiful day.”

Bingham said that, as nice as the candid, informal shots can be, there is also value in the family portraits. Weddings often bring family together from far and wide and, for some, it may be the last time every one is together at the same time.

“It’s important that there still are group photographs taken together,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to have a big family portrait.”

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deschamps photography

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every picture tells a story

blue yonder photography

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k

arry Castillo, an event specialist and owner of Uniquely Yours in Merritt Island, Fla., says couples have three options for wedding photography: traditional, photojournalistic and editorial. While traditional includes mostly posed shots, photojournalistic aims to tell a story using one to three angles and more candid photos. Often times, this style will cover the entirety of the big day, from the bride getting ready to the bride’s goodnight, using anywhere from two to three separate photographers. Editorial photos offer an edgier style with a more fashion-oriented approach.

“Most brides today want to see a story from beginning to end,” Castillo says. “They’re looking to capture the emotions of the day.” If you’re a couple looking to communicate your personal preference, Castillo recommends sharing your own pictures that serve as inspiration or as a guide for what you want.

Beyond personal preference, couples need to match up personalities with products and services. “Some brides may not want someone in their face all day, someone with a very intrusive personality,” Castillo says. Sit down with possible candidates and get to know their style. “It’s absolutely essential for the bride to select a photographer who is professional, well-versed in weddings and working with families.”

Castillo recommends meeting with at least two to three pros per category.

Depending on your choice of style, either traditional, photojournalistic or editorial, look at pros that are similar to each other but offer different options.

In evaluating potential artists, make sure to ask the right questions.

Inquiries should focus on package details, contractual agreements and final products, whether that is an actual album or digital prints. Castillo recommends asking the following questions:

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46% of brides-to-be have their teeth whitened before they walk down the aisle 7% of weddings feature guests throwing rice at the happy couple Source: Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study

Mike williams photography

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• What packages do you offer?

• How much time is allotted for the day of the wedding?

• Are photographers available all day?

• Will you bring an assistant or second shooter?

• Is an album included in the package? If so, who designs the album? How much input do we get in the album’s design?

• What quality of paper, color and inks do you use?

• Is a DVD with digital negatives provided to order our own prints in the future?

• Will we have rights to our photos?

If you’re looking to save a few bucks on photographic services, Castillo recommends asking for an associate to hire. Often times, an associate’s fee is cheaper than the main photographer’s. You also can pinpoint your coverage and only have a professional for certain parts of the day.

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videography

a

s technology has evolved, the video options available to couples offer modern packages to fit any tech-savvy couples’ needs.

“Cameras are much smaller now and videographers can be so un-intrusive,” Castillo says.

Some packages include two to three videographers and can cover more than just the big day. Professionals can document everything from cake testing to a rehearsal dinner, shooting in high definition.

If you’re looking to capture your wedding in a more cinematic way, find a videographer with quality editing capabilities. Some packages offer a two- to threeminute video of the wedding while others include an entire wedding story edited in a half- to one-hour movie clip, Castillo says.

In addition to the movies, make sure these packages still include the raw footage. Other hightech options include automatic downloads to an iPod or even streaming video so it can be viewed across the globe, Castillo says.

–Mirielle Cailles © CTW Features, Wedding Study Capture the moment photography

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beauty of

beaudoir

Kristine Paulsen photography

A boudoir-photo session is great way for brides to capture their wedding-worthy glamour and forget about the stress of the big day. The great-looking photos are just a bonus

t

he butt-kicking workouts, beauty consults and dress fittings all culminate in one day where the bride looks her absolute best as the camera clicks away. But the bride definitely deserves to celebrate her hard work more than once, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certainly no rule that says all that hard work put into perfectly a big-day look only gets to be captured once. Which is why some

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photographers believe the beauty run-through is the time to have a boudoir-photo session.

“It’s so relaxing to get their hair and makeup done,” says Brandy Pellegrino, a boudoir photographer in the Murrieta, Calif.

“They leave the shoot feeling beautiful. It turns out not to be just a photo session but an absolutely perfect day.”

Boudoir is a term for a woman’s bedroom or private sitting room – “boudoir” literally comes from the French for “a sulking place” – and boudoir photography traditionally refers to intimate photos taken in that location. Boudoir photography is as old as photography itself, but bridal boudoir photography is a growing trend. Pellegrino began her photography business in 2004 and added boudoir a year later. Today, it makes up 90 percent of her business.

“Mainly the people that come to me have come to me in the lingerie store,” says Pellegrino, whose studio is in the back of a lingerie store, which has some of her photos on display. “They see it and they like it. I think it’s just being more popular, and the suggestion is there.”

Doris Maran, a wedding and boudoir photographer in Maui, says it’s basically wherever the bride wants to take it. “It could mean getting shots done while the bride is getting ready in her underthings, or it can be an appointment before the wedding so the photos can be given as a gift,” she says.

Most of the time it’s the latter, where brides have sexy, sophisticated photos taken a few months before their wedding in order to have them printed to give to their fiancé on their wedding day or their honeymoon. A favorite photo can be individually framed, but often a set of photos are given in an album.

“They want something that’s beautiful and good quality that they can tuck away,” says Pellegrino, who provides photos to her clients either a leather-bound album, similar to the wedding album, or in a cloth folio.

Capturing bridal beauty without the traditional nuptial accoutrements like a dress and veil was what Maui bride Vanessa Cushenbery was aiming for when she chose to have Maran shoot boudoir photos two months before her wedding. She met the photographer at the beach, and then she took her clothes off. It wasn’t lewd or coarse, Cushenbery says; www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

it was beautiful. “It’s a very special time, and [bridal boudoir] is a wonderful way to capture that moment,” she says.

“What my clients like about it is that it’s invigorating for women,” Pellegrino says. “It just makes them feel special and pretty and happy that they could give a unique gift.”

In fact, Pellegrino says only 50 percent of her client base is brides-to-be. Some have lost weight and want to celebrate their success, while others want to document their beauty as they age. It’s something they do just to feel beautiful, but most are doing it “for his eyes only.” Pellegrino herself stumbled into boudoir when a friend wanted something to send to her husband in Iraq.

“It’s a tremendous gift to give your husband,” says Danny Steyn of Adept Studios in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. “It’s a unique thing that nobody else [can] give them. That in itself makes it a valuable gift.”

me? sexy photos? no way!

Well, that’s kind of the point. Bridal boudoir is about getting over your fears and enjoying the beauty that’s yours. It’s edgy, it’s fun, and, yes, you’ll look great.

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“When we show our clients professional model books, their first response is ‘I don’t look like that,’” Steyn says. “Then we show them that we can make just the average person on the street look incredibly sexy, and they start picturing how they would look in that setting, and they get excited.”

“A lot of brides do it for themselves,” says Marnee Marriott, a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based photographer. It’s a time when they feel good and sexy, and they want to record that.”

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ok. i’ll do it. what next?

To start, choose a photographer you trust and whose style you like. Some women want a soft, dreamy look. Others want flash and glamour. Most of all, feel comfortable with your photographer but know you probably will be nervous.

“There’s something valuable about overcoming that wall and feeling comfortable after being nervous,” Maran says. “Usually I can get you comfortable in about 20 minutes.”

Then the shoot can be a lot of fun. If you’re at the beach you might find yourself rolling around in the sand like a swimsuit model, or if you’re at home or a hotel, you might be luxuriously sprawled on the bed.

This is your photoshoot. It’s all about you, and that means your clothes, too. Many women choose to be photographed in their bridal undergarments and veil or in their favorite lingerie; some get more creative.

“It’s always fun to have women bring something from their fiancé,” Maran says. “Once a girl brought her fiancé’s favorite leather jacket.

She just wore her underwear and his jacket on the beach. It was a whole adventure – stealing it and getting it back without him noticing.”

By Jake Laub, © CTW Features www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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a few things to

a few things to

consider

consider

Ask about the rights to the photos – You want to make sure the images are released to you and that you know how your photographer plans to use them. You don’t want to open a magazine and find your boudoir photo in the centerfold.

Don’t drink before the shoot – You may think you need some liquid courage, but photographers don’t recommend it if you want to look your best. “Brides’ eyes get all droopy,” Maran says.

Consider going to the shoot with friends or your fiancé – “We’ve started group sessions,” Marriott says.

“They’re kind of parties where four or five friends come together and all have their photos done. It’s moral support.” If you’re not keeping it a secret from your fiancé, it’s also fairly common for him to make an appearance in a few of the photos, too.

Decide on touch-ups – The miracles of digital airbrushing are now commonplace in wedding photography, and Photoshop can have a dramatic effect on how your photos look. Steyn recently photographed a client who had a mastectomy before meeting her fiancé but wanted him to see what she looked like with both breasts. Photoshop made it happen.

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However, this is an extreme case, and some women don’t want to be touched up on the computer at all. Make sure to discuss your preferences with your photographer.

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Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

Do the shoot well in advance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Closer to the wedding youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re more likely to feel stressed, and doing the shoot on your wedding day can make you feel downright rushed.

Also, if you want to be able to present your

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photos in a book or a poster, you need to allow several weeks for printing and designing. If you shoot closer to your wedding you may only be able present him with a few smaller prints, but whatever you do, it will be meaningful.

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slideshows

can put a personal stamp on a wedding

j

ennifer Cocchiara wants guests at her wedding next November to understand how she and her fiance fell in love, so she plans to present a slideshow with photos of them growing up and growing together as a couple.

It also will include shots of the people who are important to the couple — the people who will be viewing the photos.

“We want it to be more interactive for the guests and interactive for all of us — it’s a group celebration,” said Cocchiara, of Ewing, N.J.

Slideshows have become common at weddings. Experts say they must be done properly to succeed, but are generally a fun and simple way to personalize the day and help guests get to know the couple better.

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Maureen Ro y photogra phy

“It’s an extra way to remind you, as a guest, where you are and how special it is you are there,” said Anja Winikka, editor of TheKnot.com, a wedding planning Web site.

A slideshow can be included in any part of the wedding weekend — rehearsal dinner, cocktail hour, post-wedding www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

brunch or reception, she said. If a couple is uncomfortable stopping the festivities to show the slideshow, it can be played in the background, on a loop, for guests to view at their leisure. Some couples run a slideshow on digital photo frames near the guest book or even in the restroom area.

Winikka cautions that slideshows should be “crafted in a meaningful manner.” They should be organized chronologically or by theme, and should feature photos that don’t embarrass anyone and are appropriate for guests young and old. The equipment used to display them should be tested beforehand to avoid any glitches.

And, Winikka agrees, there should be photos of more people than just the bride and groom.

“It’s great to see pictures of the two of you, but (guests) really are there to enjoy themselves with your friends and family, not just the two of you,” she said.

Photo slideshows can be created through various Web sites, for free or a small fee, and on common computer software such as Microsoft PowerPoint. You can rent a projector or audio visual equipment to show it.

Couples may create the slideshow themselves, or let a family member or friend do it. For those who aren’t good with computers, professional photographers can craft a slideshow that features artfully edited photographs and video clips. Rates can run from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Phoenix videographer and disc jockey Cameron Carpenter, owner of Three Oceans Entertainment, says it can take a few days in the studio for him to put together a wedding slideshow. Some of his clients choose to tell only their love story, while others include photos of themselves growing up as well.

“It’s a neat way to watch somebody grow up right in front of your eyes, and that’s the big appeal for it,” he said. “For out-of-town relatives ... it kind of fills in those gaps.”

Some wedding planners are against the whole idea.

Cristina Verger, owner of Cristina Verger’s Tasty Thoughts, a high-end wedding planning and event design service in New York and the Hamptons, said she’s never done a photo slideshow at a wedding. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

“I would discourage it actually because a slideshow, no matter how short, it really requires everyone’s attention, and you are interrupting,” she said. “... You have to stop to make everyone sit down and pay attention to the slideshow, which is kind of an imposition to your guests.”

If a couple feels strongly about including a slideshow, Verger said she would suggest it be shown with no sound during the cocktail hour.

Carpenter and Winikka agreed that slideshows should complement the wedding activities, not make everything come to a standstill or delay the dinner, dancing or speeches. Both said that a good time for viewing is during dinner. “Before the fast eaters are done and starting to mingle around again, there’s a nice window there,” Carpenter said.

Slideshows also should be no more than 10 or 15 minutes, he and Winikka said.

Cocchiara said she and her fiance, Damien Glonek, 37, are horror movie fans who attended horror movie conventions as youngsters and eventually met at one of them. Their slideshow, she said, will likely include pictures of them in Halloween costumes and posing with the actors from some of their favorite scary flicks.

Not only will the slideshow be personal and a little nontraditional, it also will help them avoid something they truly dread: dancing.

“We don’t like to dance, most of our friends don’t like to dance, and we were trying to think of what type of entertainment we could incorporate in the reception,” Cocchiara said.

Amy Lorentzen © AP Wire

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it’s time to

nlike the housing bubble, a diamond – or for the modern bride, a gemstone – is forever.

“It is a big investment,” says Amanda Gizzi, associate director of public relations for the Jewelry Information Center, when talking wedding jewelry. Whether it’s the engagement ring or the wedding bands, Gizzi outlines one piece of advice for ring shopping: Determine what your budget is early on, then try to find the best quality rings for that budget.

“Bridal will continue to hold its ground, as couples continue to get engaged and want to celebrate their engagement,” says Gizzi, but cautioning that “people are being a lot more cautious with how they’re spending their money.”

Potential fiancés aren’t just being cautious on how much they spend – the average cost of an engagement ring is just more than $6,000, according to a 2009 Brides.com study – but also on making sure they pick the right bling.

According to the same Brides.com study, nearly 60 percent of brides provided input on their engagement ring, and nearly 20 percent of brides pick out the ring themselves.

Diamonds and the four C’s that comes with them are the go-to engagement stone, but there

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shine has been an increase in colored stones, says Gizzi.

• Sapphires – These stones come in blue, pink and yellow varieties, and they’re a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, so they’re something you’re going to be able to wear every day.

• Rubies – The gemstone for the popular wedding month July, rubies also are a 9 on the Mohs scale, and with their red hue, rubies “really do capture the essence of love and romance,” Gizzi says.

• Emeralds – Emeralds are a go-to gemstones that are present in many heirloom pieces, says Gizzi.

the band

As has been the trend in recent years, the majority of couples are still turning to white metals like platinum and white gold for bands, which help set off the natural color of the stone. However, Gizzi is seeing a slight return to yellow gold, as it’s becoming more popular in fashion jewelry.

For the bride, groupings of wedding bands are becoming more popular, such as two thin eternity bands, one worn on each side of the engagement band. “It translates over from the www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

59% of brides provided input on their engagement ring Source: Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study

‘stacking’ trend in fashion,” Gizzi says. Color is being included in the wedding bands, too, if the bride has a diamond engagement ring; pairing colored rings may look too matchy.

Gizzi also notes that wedding bands are getting larger, too. Wide bands also work for engagement rings if the bauble is of substantial size.

And, of course, there is the groom.

“Grooms definitely are taking the ringshopping more seriously,” Gizzi says.

Just like their brides, grooms want to have the best. That is translating to more diamond wedding bands or bands with masculine details, such as those from Cartier and Scott Kay.

“They’re saying, ‘Hey, I want my personality to shine through my wedding band, as well,” Gizzi says.

–Timothy R. Schulte, © CTW Features

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Royal Limousine “Everything Else is Just a Ride”

Weddings Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties 363-3040 • 24 Hour Service www.royallimomt.com 80

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n

o matter how big your wedding party and no matter what your wedding style, there is a ride that will accommodate.

Many rental companies tend to get booked quickly during the peak periods in spring and summer, so if your nuptials occur during prime-time, don’t let your date get too near before booking your transportation.

Compare prices among firms for similar vehicles, but don’t make a decision on price alone. Look for a well-established company that maintains a large fleet of newer vehicles – the firm usually will be more reliable and be able to provide a ready replacement if your limo gets sidelined before the big day.

Ask whether the company carries liability and medical insurance for their vehicles’ passengers, and always seek references from recent customers.

Make sure you know exactly what you’ll be getting for the quoted price. Most companies charge by the hour, with a threehour minimum. This can range anywhere from $250 to $500 for a full-sized luxury car to $1,000 or more for a stretched-out specialty model. Is the driver’s gratuity – usually 10 to 20 percent – included?

Be sure to inspect the vehicle you’ll be renting to ensure that it’s in good shape and includes the amenities you’re promised. And be sure there’s enough room for all riders to fit comfortably.

Don’t ignore the details. Can you consume alcoholic beverages in the limo?

Can you hang a “Just Married” sign or other decorations on the vehicle?

Finally, be sure to read the rental contract thoroughly before signing. It should denote the make, model and year of the vehicle, the date of service, pick-up

Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

times and locations, and all costs involved, including deposit and cancellation policies.

Do your homework now and when your big day comes you’ll be able to just sit back and enjoy the ride. © CTW Features

Classy Carriages Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides for all occasions Book early & receive your special gift

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Rodney & Melanie McCollum, Jr. 406-246-3335 • 208-739-5592 • Dixon, MT transportation | brides & grooms 2010

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s the first element of your wedding guests see, stationary should truly represent the theme of your big day.

Invitation expert Lea Armstrong of Wedding Paper Divas, shares some of her do’s and don’t for announcements and invitations.

Is a save-the-date card necessary?

The save-the-date card is often your first announcement to the world that you are getting married and to make sure that your friends and family can join you on this momentous occasion.

This is the perfect opportunity to provide your guests with important information about the special event. So, while savethe-date cards are not a necessity, they are very important when you are planning a wedding that falls on a holiday weekend or is considered a “destination” for most of your guests.

What’s essential to include in an invitation?

Wedding “essentials” would include the reception card and the response card. Other enclosure cards should be based on a specific couple’s needs or special circumstances that 82

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may need to be expressed along with the invitation. We recommend that couples do not try to squeeze too many elements into your invitation or suite items like itineraries, registry information and special requests. Instead we recommend they create a wedding newsletter or wedding Web site that will allow them to include all the extra details of their event.

What are couples doing today?

Every year, we watch the monogram trend continue and wonder if they will ever cease to be popular. And while monograms still remain as popular as ever, this year we are seeing couples add a touch of boldness by extending their monograms from initials to full names.

We are also noticing a movement away from traditional and very simple creamcolored wedding invitations towards bold and contemporary colors.

When should you send a save-the-date card?

We recommend that engaged couples send save-the-date cards as soon as they set the date and decide upon a guest list.

Tradition requires at least six months’ www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

advanced notice for all guests to ensure the day is reserved.

Invitations?

Four months before the wedding the couple should order their wedding invitations with the goal to mail out the invitations to guests six to eight weeks before the big day.

However, we recommend that they don’t send them out less than eight weeks in advance for out-of-town guests. Couples should also make sure to include response cards requesting that guests respond no later than three to four weeks before the event.

How can couples personalize their own invitations?

Many couples love to feature monograms, quotes and photos, as well as unique colors and fonts on their invitations.

Considering this, the most important piece of advice that we can give is that when it comes to personalizing stationery do not overdo

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The average number of guests for a typical wedding is 155; 90 for destination weddings Source: 2009 Brides.com American Wedding Study

it. Pick just one or two elements that reflect one’s personal style, and keep it simple.

What should couples avoid when designing an invite?

Couples love to personalize all aspects of the wedding. However, we caution that couples avoid too much personalization.

Keep it simple by adding a monogram or meaningful quote. Don’t try to fit so many elements onto your invitations that it takes away from the beauty of the design itself.

–Mirielle Cailles, © CTW Features

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who’s your wedding

farmer?

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by Greg Martin for Brides & Grooms

ho’s your wedding farmer?

That was the question Todd and Alexandra Gorman Scranton wanted to make sure they knew the answer to for their marriage. The couple, whose wedding took place on July 7, 2007, utilized the University of Montana’s Farm to College Program exclusively for every item of food that was made available to their guests.

The Farm to College Program is a partnership between UM Dining Services and local area food growers to supply local, home-grown foods for as many food service opportunities as possible that the university 84

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provides. Because Todd and Alex chose to have their wedding and reception at the University ballroom, UM Dining Services was their caterer and the couple wanted to make sure that every item of food served at their wedding was local.

“The whole concept was geared toward sustainability,” said Jerry O’Malley, Director of Marketing for UM Dining Services.

The bride, Alexandra Gorman, had received her master’s degree in environmental studies from the university and has a passionate belief in environmentally-sound living. The Farm to College program was a perfect tool to express both a Western Montana flavor and the couple’s commitment to the importance www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

of local living. Placed into the hands of the experienced chefs at UM Dining Services, the food was anything but ordinary.

Hors d’oeuvres included a Cream of the West snack mix from Harlow, Flathead cherries, zucchini latke with sour cream from Meadow Dairy Gold, whitefish caviar from Mountain Lake Fisheries in Columbia Falls and Montana iced tea from Spearmint Springs Tea in Thompson Falls.

“The entire presentation was really impressive,” said O’Malley.

Indeed it was. And it only got fancier from there. The dinner choices could be found at five different stations in the ballroom.

At station one, there was Montana Range Beef tenderloin with huckleberry sauce and mashed Bausch Potatoes from Whitehall piped into martini glasses with topping choices of bacon from Daily’s Bacon in Missoula, chives, sour cream, drawn butter, shredded cheddar and an herb sauce, all locally grown.

The enchilada bar was station two, which included Deshebrada chicken from ET Farms in Belt, corn tortillas from Whiting Enterprises in Corvallis, jack cheese from Lifeline Farms in Victor, and a variety of toppings from Western Montana Growers Cooperative in Arlee.

If that weren’t enough, there was a savory crepe station with ham from Redneck Sausage in Kalispell, Lolo Creek mustard, and tofu from Totally Organic in St. Ignatius. The mouth-watering angolatti station had homemade angolatti with goat cheese from Amaltheia Dairy in Belgrade and a brandy morel cream sauce with mushrooms from Larry Evans in Missoula and Meadowgold’s brown drawn butter.

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Those wanting a lighter fare could go to station five which was the “soup and salad” station. There, guests could find Dixon Melon soup with Dixon Melon sorbet and a spring salad mix with a local dressing in frisco cups.

Beverages also stayed true to the local theme with Moose Drool and Scape Goat Pale Ale from Big Sky Brewery, Blackfoot Rise Riesling, Clear Weather Chardonnay and Lake Missoula Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon.

If all that sounds a bit too exotic for children, the couple had it covered. They set up a kid’s meal station, complete with a child chef who happened to be the executive chef’s granddaughter. There, young ones could feast upon food more up their alley: Piedmontese mini hamburgers from Montana Range Beef, silver dollar buns from Wheat Montana, macaroni and cheese from Pasta Montana in Great Falls, and Montana

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Huckleberry bars.

It wasn’t just the food that had an earth-friendly approach. All the invitations, the announcements and the guestbook was made from recycled paper. The couple also had a tree set up with seed paper for the guests to take home and plant native flowers.

To organize for such an elaborate and focused mission, Alexandra frequently conferred with the head chefs at UM Dining Services to meet both the purpose of the Farm to College program and the needs of all of the guests. Chefs included UM’s Tom Siegel, Brian Crego, and Tim Hodges. Siegel even carved an ice swan as decoration for

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Nkauj Ntsuab Photography

the meal presentation, as if there wasn’t enough to do.

To enhance the local and personal touch to the day, the couple also set up and named each table after the towns that they commuted through during their courtship.

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And each table had custom local teas.

UM Dining Services Marketing Assistant Diana Dattilo said despite all the intricacies of planning the menu and the layout of the room, the bride remained unflappable, even when one local food item that was planned didn’t arrive.

“She was always calm, cool, and collected,” Dattilo said.

The catering staff did pretty well, too. After the wedding, UM Dining Services made a written documentary of the wedding, complete with photos and descriptions of all the dishes that was available. O’Malley carefully put together the presentation and inserted it into a charmingly rustic looking crate board case. The presentation was submitted to the National Association of College & University Food Services where it was given the Silver ribbon from the Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards.

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stand up

y

against the sit down It’s not easy planning and pricing a menu. Seated meals incur wait-staff costs; buffet and family-style dinners pile on added food costs. What’s right for you?

Here’s a look at the benefits and drawbacks of your food options.

our family is in perpetual motion.

They’re going to hug or shake hands with everyone at your wedding reception – being tethered to a table wouldn’t sit well with them. You’re also thinking about frail relatives. How can you make them wade through a buffet line?

As you’re discovering, selecting the appropriate food service is just as important as the food itself at your wedding celebration.

Your decision will depend on the venue, your guest list and menu.

Budget is also a factor, and costs will vary with your choice. However, you may discover that what you assume is the most economical option isn’t necessarily so.

Before you take a stand – or a seat – on food service, here’s what to consider.

sit-down dinner

Serenity is being assured everyone has a seat and a full plate, without the discomfort of juggling plates and glasses. That’s the advantage of a sit-down meal.

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What you may not know is that this luxurious treatment maybe be less pricey than a buffet, according to caterers (see sidebar).

“There’s a perception that a buffet is cheaper, but it’s not, because you’re serving a greater quantity of food,” says Daniel Briones, president of the National Association of Catering Executives.

Unlike a buffet where some guests may heap their plates, everyone at a sit-down dinner receives a set portion. Caterers compensate for heavy buffet eaters by making more food available, which you have to pay for.

Bar service is often less costly, as well,

since you can control how much wine is poured at the tables.

When selecting this sophisticated service, caterers say your best menu bets are the everpopular beef tenderloin and/or lobster.

Drawbacks: Some guests will undermine the seating arrangements to get their preferred spot.

www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

family-style dinner

If you enjoy informality, but want your guests to eat in comfort, passing platters of food at the table may be the answer.

It’s the middle ground between a buffet and being served by the wait staff.

“In family style service, you can control portions better than a buffet,” says Briones, who is director of catering at the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia.

“You’re also giving guests a little more variety than one specific item,” he adds.

Best food bets: Italian, Southern with chicken and greens, or Asian, according to Briones.

“Anything that will sit well on a buffet

would translate well onto a family-style menu,” he says.

Drawbacks: Some guests may not want to serve themselves. Some caterers provide wait staff, but that adds to the cost.

Family-style requires large, clear tables. If the settings include a centerpiece and several glasses for each guest, there might not be room for the platters, according to Briones.

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buffet

You may have visions of unattractive chafing dishes, heaps of steamed food and restless guests at a buffet.

Forget them.

Buffets have appeal, says Michael Lamando of Amici’s Catered Cuisine in Tampa Bay, Fla.

“If you are social and want your families to mingle, buffets are a good way to do it.” Presentation makes all the difference.

“You want greenery, flowers, pillars and accent materials that match the bridesmaids’ dresses,” Lamando says.

Hide chafing dishes with glass blocks and set the dishes at varying heights to escape the look of an all-you-caneat chain restaurant.

Best food bets: Salads, coated or crusted fish that doesn’t dry out, Italian dishes.

Indian food, which Kristine Paulsen Photography is a hot trend in wedding

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Dawn Alicia photography

fare, works well in buffets, too. “People like to take a little of a lot of different things; different curries,” says Angie Kemp, director of catering at The Dana on Mission Bay in San Diego.

Drawbacks: Buffet trays need to be refilled frequently so the food remains bountiful and appetizing.

Guests may not want to stand in line.

Best food bets: Asian, such as Chinese pot stickers and Japanese sushi are favorites among Stevens’ couples. In Tampa, Lamando’s guests prefer pasta stations.

“Guest choose their own pasta and sauce with a variety of toppings including shrimp, chicken, sausage and scallops, Lamando says.

Drawbacks: You’ll need a large room to accommodate the bar and separate food areas.

stations

Serve up adventure and personal stories when you feature a range of food stops, or stations, each with a different culinary selection.

Stations can reflect your heritage, say regional Italian cuisine, or how you met, maybe food from a vacation in Japan.

Although similar to buffets, stations are spread out. Each station has its own style, says Liene Stevens, owner of Blue Orchid Designs in Scottsdale, Ariz. This suits her clients’ interests in ethnic fare. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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capture the moment photography

hybrids

Marry the best of different styles for the reception that suits you.

For example, seat guests for the salad and entrée but provide stations for dessert.

“You want to get people up and moving around,” says Kemp.

A new combination may satisfy your guests.

“It’s a station with food that’s already plated in small portions. For example, you can have one plate with grits and sea bass and another with filet with mashed potatoes – all small bites,” Kemp says.

By Bev Bennett © CTW Features

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piece of

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cake

by Greg Martin for Brides & Grooms

hen Missoula bride Sydney Stauffer realized that the RSVP count for her wedding was approaching 300 people and she was running out of money, she panicked, wondering what to do about her wedding cake.

Luckily, her grandma called her soon after and said she wanted to help and that

her gift to the couple would be paying for the wedding cake. But with such a large attendance expected, Sydney still had to work on a budget. She chose Rosauers to handle it.

A self-described perfectionist, Stauffer paid the chef a couple of lengthy visits to make sure they could do what she was wanting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a four-tiered cake with roses of dax photography

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different colors circling around each layer.

The cake had a simple elegance with its white frosting and floral arrangement.

“It was perfect,” she said. “The florist did a stand-up job and no one knew that it came from Rosauers. I had the cake of my dreams.”

For most weddings, the cake is the visual artistic edible centerpiece of the reception.

It’s elegant presence adorns the ceremony and is a staple of nearly all wedding albums.

Often cakes are made with exquisite detail, only to be slowly taken apart piece by piece.

“The cake is one of two centerpiece moments of a wedding,” said Bernice’s Bakery owner Christine Littig. “One is the moment when the bride and groom are standing up and saying their vows and the other is the cutting of the wedding cake.”

Littig said recently, brides are looking at more economical ways of getting the right cake for their wedding. She said some are reducing the number of layers and having additional layers of sheet cake hidden under the cake stand that can be served after the cake ceremony is finished and served to guests.

“We’re seeing brides who are much more budget conscious now,” she said. “We don’t have a problem with that at all. We like seeing less waste.”

Margaret Ambrose-Barton, a certified pastry chef and the wedding cake specialist for the Pearl Bakery, has been making wedding cakes for 20 years. She said with the rising popularity of national outlets publicizing wedding cake styles from Martha Stewart to cable TV shows, brides have seen more options.

“The people we see have a lot more elaborate designs because there is more exposure out there,” she said.

Jean Bauer, owner of Jeanne’s Cakes in Missoula said she’s seen a shift away from tiered cakes and more where the layers are stacked directly on top of each other. She’s also had more requests for handmade flowers which she creates with a mixture of marzipan and a sugar paste.

The two most common frosting options for wedding cakes are buttercream and fondant. Fondant frosting is thicker and can be rolled out more smoothly over a cake, providing smoother corners and edges. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

An average wedding cake costs $446 96% of weddings feature a cutting of the cake Source: Brides.com 2009 American Wedding Study

The smooth, flat surface makes it easier to decorate but some find that it doesn’t taste as good as buttercream.

Bernice’s Bakery, in fact, does not use fondant frosting at all. Littig said their pastry chefs are trained to make cakes that look as good as a cake with fondant but are more edible and less wasteful. She said the only visible differences are their edges which are not quite as sharp as the rolled finishes of fondant, but are hardly noticeable.

“Our cakes look like fondants,” she said.

When brides come to them and find out that they don’t do fondant, Littig said, they are at first disappointed but most times overcome the disappointment when they see samples of what they’ve done before.

Bernice’s focuses on designing something that meets the specific aesthetics of the wedding party, she said.

“Brides are looking for something that makes their wedding individualistic,” said Littig.

Like Stauffer’s cake with real roses, Ambrose-Barton said she gets many requests for actual flowers on the cake. It’s particularly practical when the flowers can also be eaten.

“Nowadays, we tend to go to fresh flowers and so many are actually edible,” she said, adding that she’ll often add a thin sugar

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coating to them.

For brides shopping for a baker for their cake, AmbroseBarton recommends that they go with someone who will cook in a commercial kitchen, for health reasons. If they are doing a homemade wedding, she suggests that whoever is going to make it is prepared and knows the scope of what they are getting into, as making a good cake can be a week-long process.

“Some people don’t understand that you

can’t whip it up overnight,” she said.

It’s also important, she said, for brides to be conscious of the weather and have good air conditioning if it’s going to be hot. Having an indoor and an outdoor option is also a good idea, she said. They should also be sure that there is a good level surface for the cake and it’s in a position where it won’t be interfered with.

She suggested that brides who come to her for their cake provide good 98

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communication and do some research ahead of time so they have an idea what they’re looking for. Ambrose-Barton said brides can even test flavors before they order their cake.

With all the work and effort that can go into making a cake, the intricate detailed patterns and carefully-crafted decoration, you would think it might be difficult for the chefs to see their creations cut up quickly and eaten. But for Bauer, who has been doing wedding cakes since 1983, she said she enjoys knowing her cakes help make a special day that much more special.

“It’s satisfying when you please the bride and everybody around,” she said. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

) PNF ( SPXO # FBVUZ

190 South 3rd | 406.728.1358 www.bernicesbakerymt.com Photos by Scott Hevener

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wedding announcement

he Missoulian publishes wedding announcements in its Sunday edition. These announcements are considered news stories and may be edited or held for questions.

Announcements without photos will run free of charge; those with a photo cost $40 and payment must be made when submitting the announcement. The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday two weeks before publication. The Missoulian also will publish photos of four- or five-generation gatherings for a $40 fee.

• Please type or print plainly.

• First and last names are required of all

persons mentioned in the announcement.

• Please make sure all names are spelled correctly.

• Photos may be black and white or color.

The size does not matter as long as they are sharp, clear glossy prints with the couple’s heads close together. Photos may also be emailed in JPG format. No photocopies will be accepted. Photos can either be picked up after the announcement has appeared in the Missoulian or mailed if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is enclosed.

P.O. Box 8029, Missoula, MT 59807 Email: mgerber@missoulian.com Toll free: 1-800-366-7186 or 406-523-5240 • Fax: 406-523-5294 Person completing the form ___________________ Person officiating____________________________ Contact phone number_____________________day night_______________________________________ Date of marriage_____________________________ Place of marriage_ ___________________________ Bride’s name________________________________ Groom’s name_______________________________ Her address_________________________________ His address__________________________________ Her mother’s name___________________________ His mother’s name_ __________________________ Her mother’s address_________________________ His mother’s address_________________________ Her father’s name _ __________________________ His father’s name_ ___________________________ Her father’s address__________________________ His father’s address___________________________ Maid/matron of honor________________________ Best man_ __________________________________ Bridesmaids_________________________________ Groomsman_________________________________ Ushers_____________________________________ Flower girl__________________________________ Ring bearer_ ________________________________ Bride’s education, employment:_ _______________ Groom’s education, employment:_______________ E-mail address_______________________________ Where will the couple honeymoon______________ Where will the couple live_ ____________________ missoulian.com

Every minute. Every day.

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Go digital! Put your wedding announcement on Missoula.com, Missoula’s social networking site. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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marriage license

he bride and groom-to-be must go to the office of the Missoula County Clerk of District Court - 200 W. Broadway; M-F 8-5, except holidays (must arrive no later than 4:30 pm) and fill out a Montana Marriage Application Form.

The license can be used immediately and is good for up to 180 days. Bring proof of age (birth certificate, driver’s license, etc.). If the future bride is under fifty years old, she must provide Rubella Test results (unless she has proof from a doctor that she is not able to have children). The bride and groom must know their mothers’ maiden names and the state their parents were born in.

The bride and groom must also know the city, state, and county they were born in. If they have been married before, they have to state whether the former marriage ended by death or divorce, the county and state in which the divorce took place and the date of

dissolution. They must be 18 years of age or older. The fee is $53.00, payable in cash or with VISA or MasterCard only (no personal checks).

While you are thinking of official procedures, both the groom and bride need to change their wills and put the other’s name on properties that will be mutually owned.

And, if the bride is going to assume her husband’s name, she should make changes on the following items:

• Social Security • Wills Card • Insurance

Policies • Driver’s License • Pension Plans • Car Registration • Property Titles • Voter Registration and Leases • Passport • Charge Accounts • Employer or • Subscriptions School Records • Club Memberships • Stocks and Bonds • Post Office

We invite your new family to join ours.

Main Facility • Broadway Bldg 500 West Broadway • Missoula Community Med Ctr • Phys Ctr 3 2835 Ft Missoula Rd • Missoula 406.721.5600 • 800.525.5688 www.westernmontanaclinic.com www w w w.bridesandgroomsmt.com .bridesandgroomsmt.com

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arents, brothers, sisters, friends and new in-laws – the your wedding cast list is no small group of people. And they’ve all done something to help you get to this point, whether it be financially supporting the wedding or psychologically supporting you as you prepped for the biggest day of your life. So you’ll want to say thanks in a meaningful way.

For your parents, the wedding probably

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exhausted them both physically and financially. A great way to say thanks might be something that would help them recharge their batteries, such as a stay at a nice hotel where they can relax and escape the everyday.

For the siblings and friends that make up your bridal party, think about what’s meaningful to them. Drink connoisseurs might enjoy a specialty beverage, such as a fancy bottle wine or a rare high-end spirit.

Theatre or sports fans might enjoy tickets to their favorite performances. Hobbies, too, be it golf or fashion, leave the door open for a variety of specially tailored gifts.

But think, too, about the wedding.

Jewelry (earrings and necklaces) for the gals and finishing touches (tie bars and cuff links) gives the group some cohesion on the big day and a happy reminder beyond.

You know your family and friends best.

Show them something they love, and they’ll know how much you love them. © CTW Features www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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attendants’ duties Maid/ Matron of Honor

• Assists bride in wedding planning and shopping • Helps bride address invitations and other tasks • Plans and contributes to bridal shower or party for couple • Coordinates shower gift with bridesmaids if giving one gift • Attends pre-wedding events • Purchases wedding attire and accessories • Travel expenses (if any) • Arrives early at bride’s home to help dress and prepare for photos • During ceremony, holds groom’s ring and bride’s bouquet, adjusts bride’s gown, veil and train • Signs marriage license as legal witness • May make a toast to couple at reception • Helps bride change to going away clothes after reception

Bridesmaids

• Help the bride address invitations and other tasks • Participate and contribute to bridal shower • Offer to do last minute errands • Attend pre-wedding events • Purchase wedding attire and accessories • Travel expenses (if any) • Arrive at bride’s home prior to ceremony for photos

Best Man

• Assists groom with wedding details • Plans bachelor party • Coordinates gift for groom with groomsmen if giving one gift • Attends pre-wedding events • Purchases wedding attire and accessories • Travel expenses (if any) • Arrives at groom’s home before ceremony • Provides transportation for groom to ceremony and from reception • Provides car decorations 104 brides brides & & grooms grooms2010 2010 | attendants’ duties

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• Signs marriage license as a legal witness • During ceremony, holds bride’s ring • Holds clergy fee for groom • Offers the first toast to the bride and groom at reception • Returns groom’s attire to rental shop

Groomsmen/Ushers

• Offer groom assistance with his planning • Help with bachelor party • Attend pre-wedding events • Purchase wedding attire and accessories • Travel expenses (if any) • Escort guests to seats for ceremony (bride’s guests to left, groom’s to right) • Escort bridesmaids down the aisle (processional and recessional) • Dance and mingle with guests throughout the reception w wwww w .bridesandgroomsmt .bridesandgroomsmt.com

Junior Bridesmaid (10-14 years old)

• Purchases wedding attire and accessories • May help with wedding tasks • Attends pre-wedding events • Arrives at bride’s home prior to ceremony for photos • May or may not be escorted by usher

Ring Bearer

• Purchases wedding attire and accessories • May or may not attend pre-wedding events • May pass out programs to guests prior to ceremony • Carries pillow up the aisle • May accompany flower girl up and down aisle

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Flower Girl

(Under 10 years old)

• May or may not attend pre-wedding events • Purchases wedding attire and accessories • Arrives at bride’s home prior to ceremony for photos • May pass out programs to guests prior to ceremony • May sprinkle rose petals down the aisle prior to bride going up the aisle • Carries basket of flowers up the aisle attendants’ duties |brides brides& & grooms grooms 2010

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perfect plan for a pramatic registry

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In tough times, it’s key to pinpoint what’s important. For registries, that means choosing the right range of items that you’ll love using and guest will love giving. Here’s how to do it

v

endors and venues get a lot of attention during the wedding-planning process, but not not to be underestimated is the importance of the bridal registry on the engaged couple’s to-do list. While some couples may put it off, as it feels less pressing than booking the caterer or florist, others hightail it right out to the stores to get registered in anticipation of the long lines to return unwanted engagement gifts.

The reality of registering, though, is this: There is no right way or wrong way to do it.

However, following a few strategies for registering enables couples to formulate a thoughtful, well-crafted list that ensures they’re receiving items that they don’t just need and want for married life but ones they’ll actually use. Of course, there’ll always be that one crazy family member who buys you [insert awful gift], which you never would have asked for in a million years, but for the most part, attention to detail in one’s registry will provide sound guidance for the bulk of guests.

a quick look back- and ahead

The bridal registry wasn’t always the high-tech, finely polished machine of today. In her book, “Brides Inc.: American Weddings and the Business of Tradition” (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2006), author Vicki Howard traces the origins of the registry back to 1924 and what were then known as “gift suggestion departments.”

Howard explains that in those days the department store, which was all about service, created these departments as a way to make sure couples didn’t get duplicate gifts by tracking what people bought for them and providing guests with gift suggestions From there, magazines and stores started providing pre-printed lists of the things couples should have, and, voila, the modern-day registry was born. www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

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Today, stores, magazines and wedding Web sites provide registry checklists for couples. They are good guides, says Jana O’Leary, a spokeswoman for Target, but the suggestions are not requirements. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for couples seeking to register because much besides the desire for china has changed, as many couples live together prior to marriage and others are waiting longer to be married.

Because of that, “they are more specific in the things they register for and in what they like and need for their life,” says Millie Martini Bratten, editor-in-chief of Brides magazine.

identify what you want & need

Some couples may feel overwhelmed by the amount of “stuff” the checklists suggest a couple needs and thus not know where to start. Jessica Pennington of St. Joseph, Mich., felt that way. As the owner of wedding coordination firm Stella Event Design, she has seen other couples walk down the dark path of registering for “everything” because the thought they had to. “Everything is presented to you as, ‘This is what you need to register for,’” Pennington says.

Bratten suggests analyzing your lifestyle, what you like and what you want when you begin the process, in addition to looking to your personal interests.

While this is a “wish list,” it’s not a mandatory list for guests to buy from. They, too, are using it as a guide, and the more indications of style and what you’re looking for (more cocktail plates than dinner plates, for example), the easier it will be for them to purchase something that will fit into your registry | brides & grooms 2010 107

lives should they not buy something on your registry. Not only that, but thoughtfully choosing the items you want means you’re more likely to get them.

Bride-to-be Noelle Livreri chose the lessis-more approach because she and her fiancé are both in their 30s, live together and know their lifestyle very well. “We were more frugal than other people,” she says. “We didn’t take the approach that ‘this is your chance to get anything you want.’ We did not register for stuff we are not going to use.”

Livreri polled her married friends for suggestions; Pennington suggests using the checklists as a starting point and writing in your specific needs. Of course, there may be things you don’t want now but maybe will in the future. Consider those things, but keep it in perspective. If you’ll use something, scan it.

If not, save up for if and when it becomes a must-have.

pick a few locations and check them out

Krissy Tiglias, home editor for TheKnot. com, suggests couples register at two or three locations. “One is too limiting, and anywhere above four to five is too many for guests,” she says. “You want to make it as easy as possible for them.” Tiglias also suggests choosing stores with wide selections and ease in ordering (online and by phone). Check out a store’s return policy, as well. Some couples also consider locations of the stores, as some guests may be unfamiliar with online ordering and prefer to buy in person.

Livreri, who lives in Cambridge, Mass., did a lot of research on where to register before she and her fiancé took the plunge.

“We did dry runs,” she says, something Bratten also suggests: “Make it a little bit of a learning process,” she says.

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and, finally, register

But first, a reminder: “This is about you as a couple,” says Anna Post, author of “Emily Post’s Wedding Parties” (Collins Living, 2007). “I did once have a man ask if he could register for a fancy electric shaver,” Post says. “There’s nothing technically wrong with it, but your guests won’t want to get it for you – that’s a personal item, not for the two of you celebrating your life together.”

Keep your guests in mind and register for a wide range of price points and items.

The little stuff – such as can openers, wooden spoons and tea towels – are often items people will put together in gift baskets for showers. The big items are things colleagues, bridesmaids and other groups like to go in on to purchase for you.

Also, register for enough things. “We do suggest you register for more gifts than there are guests,” Tiglias says. She cites all the prewedding events that will eliminate gifts from your registry, such as the shower(s).

Speaking of pre-wedding events, Bratten recommends refreshing your registry prior to the wedding to make sure there are still enough items on there for purchase; the majority of the gifts are bought just 48 hours prior to the wedding, she says. Visit your registry throughout the engagement to see when it needs touching up.

Start the process early so you don’t feel www.bridesandgroomsmt .com

pressured or stressed. And remember, you’re picking out your presents here – it can’t be that bad, so enjoy it.

Dana Carman, © CTW Features

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voyage

rom Hollywood to Hawaii, Florida to France, couples travel all around the world to their dream honeymoon spot. But when it comes to planning a wedding getaway, couples need to consider all things basic: budget, time, season and destination.

While honeymoon specialists have worked with budgets from as little as $1,500 to as large as $20,000, couples should typically expect to spend between $4,000 and $6,000 on a honeymoon, says Linda Martindell, destination specialist and owner of Totem Travel in Kirkland, Wash. To fit the vacation within your budget, Martindell recommends asking the right question: What will we remember in 10 years?

“It sounds glamorous to travel first class, but people rarely take pictures of an airline seat, and if an extravagant suite means only a weekend getaway that may not be the right choice,” she says. “Most couples will remember their honeymoon forever, so think time together, think pictures, think new experiences and go from there.”

To begin planning your honeymoon, discuss budget and vacation priorities. Find a travel professional to bounce ideas with. “Ask a professional travel agent where you can get the best value for your dream honeymoon,” Martindell says. “By discussing budget first you can avoid being caught up in the excitement of unrealistic destinations and a

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travel agent may suggest options you never even considered.”

Make sure to plan early to get the best deal and value for your money. If you procrastinate, you may find your favorite resort sold out or airfare out of your price range.

If you’re on a tighter budget, domestic destinations may seem like the best fit, but according to Martindell with airline fares today, they’re no less expensive than Mexico or the Caribbean. “An all inclusive resort or cruise can be less expensive than a local trip when you consider the cost of meals, activities and entertainment,” she says. “We’re seeing prices from about $200 a day for lodging, meals, drinks and activities.”

And while traveling in the off-season is appealing, it might not be worth the savings.

“The shortest lines and lowest rates are in off season but that may not be a bargain if it’s snowing in Paris or raining in Tahiti,” Martindell says. “Then again you can get great weather and low rates during certain times of year such as Hawaii in May or the Caribbean in early December.” Fiji and New Zealand also offer great value, as the dollar is strong in those locations.

–Mirielle Cailles, © CTW Features w w w .bridesandgroomsmt .com

advertiser index attire

Beautiful Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Missoula Textile Services . . . . . . . . . . .

Simply Elegant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Tux Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41 15 43 49

beauty

Elite Makeup Artistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Family Dental Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Sorella’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Spa at Peak Health & Wellness Center 39

beverages

Badlander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pattee Creek Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rhinocerous Wine & Spirits . . . . . . . .

Ten Spoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

94 95 85 90

cakes

Bernice’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Cakes By Debi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

catering

All Events Catering . . . . . . . . . 33, 77, 93 Caffe Firenze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Fabulous Food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Famous Dave’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Good Food Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Jakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Pattee Creek Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Silk Road Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Two Sisters Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

finance

Missoula Federal Credit Union . . . . . . 13

flowers

Bitterroot Flower Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Monaco Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

health

Western Montana Clinic . . . . . . . . . . 101

venues (ceremony & reception)

music

A Black Tie Affair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Cat & the Fiddle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Electronic Sound & Percussion . . . . .

Jane Shigley, Harpist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reeds-n-Rhythm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Riverhaus Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . .

party rentals & supplies Eastgate Rental & Party Center . . . . .

Missoula Textile Services . . . . . . . . . . .

Montana Party Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Party America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

photography

Affordable Photographics . . . . . . . . . .

B2 Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blue Yonder Photography . . . . . . . . . .

C&R Wedding Photography . . . . . . . .

Capture the Moment Photography . .

Dawn Alicia Photography . . . . . . . . . .

Dax Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deschamps Photography . . . . . . . . . .

Kristine Paulsen Photography . . . . . .

Logan Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maureen Roy Photography . . . . . . . . .

Mike Williams Photography . . . . . . . .

Nkauj Ntsuab Photography . . . . . . . .

Radiance Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sepp Jannotta Photography . . . . . . . .

Yellowstone Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

54 54 59 54 53 53

91 15 86 85

72 65 64 68 62 70 65 61 63 75 74 69 67 71 73 68

planners

Celtic Connections for Every Situation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Meetings Northwest . . . . . . . . centerfold Random Task Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

registry

Caffe Dolce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Caffe Firenze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Dillard’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Southgate Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . centerfold

honeymoon

rehearsal dinner locations

Escape Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

El Cazador . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Jaker’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

invitations

specialty products

Noteworthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

jewelry

Alara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Barney Jette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Silpada Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

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Just Wrap It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Lisa Archer Silks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

transportation

Beach Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Classy Carriages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dollar Rent-a-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Royal Limousine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

81 81 11 80

Alberton Gorge Ranch . . . . . . . . . 21, 31 American Legion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Belton Chalet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 21 Best Western KwaTaqNuk . . . . . . 21, 25 Bigfork Mountain Lake Lodge . . . 22, 34 Bitterroot Banquet & Ballroom . . . . . 22 Bitterroot River Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . 17, 22 Broadway Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Caffe Dolce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Caffe Firenze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Camp Paxson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 24 Caras Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 30 Conrad Mansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Couer d’alene Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Daly Mansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Davenport Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Doubletree Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 El-Mar Gathering Place . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Emmanuel by Blue Mountain . . . . . . . 25 Fairmont Hot Springs Resort . . . . . . . 18 Hampton Inn Kalispell . . . . . . . . . 25, 29 Hellgate Elks Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell . . . . . 25, 35 Hilton Garden Inn Missoula . . . . . 23, 26 Holiday Inn Downtown at the Park . . . . . . . 26, 58 Il Villagio Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Izaak Walton Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Kandahar Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Linda Vista Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lolo Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lost Horse Creek Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Marshall Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 32 MCT Center for the Performing Arts . . . . . . 28, 34 Mission Mountain Resort . . . . . . . 29, 33 Missoula Convention & Visitor’s Bureau . . . . . . centerfold Montana Harley-Davidson . . . . . . . . . 28 Montana Island Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 29, 55 Northern Rockies Heritage Center . . 29 Ogren Park Allegiance Field . . . . . . 29, centerfold Orchard Homes Country Life Club . 30 Quality Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 30 Ranch Club . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, centerfold Robbins Roost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Rockin’ TJ Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 St. Anthony Parish Life Center . . . . . . 32 Snowbowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Staybridge Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Stevens Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Swan River Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 UM Stadium Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29, 33 UM University Center Ballroom . 33, 34 Western Montana Fairgrounds . . . . . . 33 Whitefish Mountain Resort . . . . . . 28, 33

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