Wedding Showcase 2016 | The Crescent-News | Defiance, Ohio | Website: crescent-news.com

Weddings SHOWCASE 2016 Featured Couple:

Justin Killion & Kristina Skeldon

The Crescent-News

Thursday, February 11, 2016

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2016 Bridal Tab

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

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A wedding proposal has a fairy tale ending for a Defiance couple

By DARLENE PRINCE

@cnDarlenePrince prince@crescent-news.com

As the lyrics in the Frank Sinatra song, “Young at Heart,” go, “Fairy tales can come true, it can happen to you...”

A fairy tale did come true for a young Defiance couple, Justin Killion and Kristina Skeldon, when they went on a family trip to Disney World and Justin asked Kristina to marry him while they were at Cinderella’s Castle.

The couple was chosen as this year’s bridal couple in The Crescent-News 2016 Bridal Contest.

The couple’s fairy tale ending (she did accept his proposal) was part of a clever scheme planned by Justin early in February last year.

Justin said, “On Jan. 31, I asked her father very seriously about marrying Kris. I started to plan about proposing to her at Disney World. I was going to propose at a dinner and her father agreed to play along.” Justin made the reservations for the meal at Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World.

After arriving at Disney World in April, the family did some sightseeing and shopping.

"Justin got down on one knee at Cinderella’s Royal Table and proposed to me."

Kristina Skeldon They went to the castle for the meal but ran into a few glitches in getting their table.

“We had gotten there too soon for our reservations,” Justin said. Kris’ father came up with an elaborate story to distract her and eventually the family was seated at their table. A white plate with roses and a glass slipper was brought to their table.

Kris said, “Justin got down on one knee at Cinderella’s Royal Table and proposed to me. I had no idea this was going to happen. I was so happy! People around us were clapping for us. I started crying. The rest of the day just flew by for us.”

The couple even got to meet and talk to Cinderella at the castle.

It was a very romantic time in their relationship which began on a blind date to see a new "Transformer" movie in July 2014.

One of the things that Justin and Kristina have in common is keeping fit. Here they are shown while doing some snow skiing. The couple will be married on Aug. 26 at the Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance.

Justin Killion and Kristina Skeldon are shown talking to Cinderella at Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World last year. Justin planned a surprise wedding proposal to Kristina at the castle while

After that first date, they both decided they wanted to see more of each other and made Eric’s All-American Ice Cream business their go-to spot for dates. They talked about the interests they both shared which included sports, family, fitness and enjoying a good movie. The most important thing the couple has in common is their love for God. They both attend Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance.

Both Kris and Justin are Defiance natives and they both live in Defiance.

Justin is a graduate of Defiance High School and a student at Northwest State Community College, studying for an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering.

He will graduate in May. He is currently employed at the H.E. Orr Company in Paulding, where he is

they were having a meal. She accepted his proposal and they will be married on Aug. 26 in a ceremony at Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance.

an engineering technician. He plans to further his education with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from IPFW and an MBA from Defiance College.

Kris graduated from high school in 2011 from the Pensacola Christian College homeschool program.

She completed an associate’s degree in applied science in registered nursing at Northwest State Community College.

She is working as a registered nurse in the surgery center at ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital.

Before working as a nurse, she was a cake decorator at Chief supermarket in Defiance and an STNA at the Defiance hospital.

The couple will be married on Aug. 26 at the Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance.

Their reception will be

held at the West Side Hall Conference and Reception Center in Defiance.

The couple has purchased a home in Defiance and plans to raise their family here.

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Some tips for your wedding registry  4

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Family Features

For engaged couples, it can seem as if there are a million things to accomplish before the big day arrives.

One essential piece of the wedding puzzle involves creating a registry that makes it easy for guests to celebrate your union with gifts that reflect your personality as a couple.

Before Building Your Registry It’s no wonder why guests love the ease and simplicity of a gift registry. But many couples may not know where to begin when setting out to create this useful list. Here are some helpful pointers from Macy’s to help you get started on creating a perfect wedding registry: • Meet with a consultant: These trained professionals are on site to assist

and discuss everything you want and need. It’s a good place to start if you have questions on what items to include and what brands are available.

• Look for special programs: Some stores offer special features, such as Macy’s, whose Dream Fund allows guests to contribute any amount to the ultimate gift card, so the bride and groom can later choose exactly what they want.

• Start early: Most couples like to register four-six months before their wedding date, which allows more time for choosing items, planning for showers and meeting other deadlines.

•Register together: Whether it’s in-store, online or both — make a day of it and have fun selecting all the things that will be part of your new life together.

•Choose different price

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

points: Guests will appreciate a varied list that has many gift options to fit their personal budget.

•Create a registry that reflects you: If you’re a laid-back, easygoing couple, consider registering for a more casual dinnerware pattern that you can use every day, then mix in some fancy pieces to use for those special occasions.

If you enjoy entertaining friends and family, be sure to choose a range of serveware and barware.

Making the Right Choices With all the things needed to properly stock your home, selecting the right ones can seem overwhelming. Here are some tips to keep in mind while adding to your registry: • Select your settings: A five-piece setting is meant to serve one person and includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bread and but-

Photo courtesy of Family Features

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Gift registries are a wonderful convenience for both the engaged couple and their families and friends.

Persons can choose presents for the couple without worry about selecting the right gift.

ter plate, tea cup and saucer. If you want to serve eight guests, you will need to register for eight fivepiece settings.

• Factor in some extras: When registering for drinkware, be sure to register for a few extras in each glass size in case some break down the road.

• Protect your cutlery: Be sure to choose a sturdy cutting board to protect your knife blades from chips and cracks. You can keep your cutlery in top condition by registering for a honing steel and knife sharpener.

• Stock up on kitchen necessities: When it comes

to cookware, make sure to stock up on the essentials.

This should include a fry pan, saute pan, grill pan, sauteuse (round, deep-sided design for sauteing on the stovetop or baking in the oven) and a chef’s pan.

• Opt for the basics: White dinnerware allows you to transform the look of your table year-round by changing the decor and accessories around it. The classic look will be a design that you can appreciate for years to come.

Visit www.macys.com/ registry for a full registry checklist, helpful tips and more information on

Barware basics for your wedding registry The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

Family Features

Building a registry is one of the big items on the wedding checklist and it can often seem like an overwhelming task, given the number of categories to consider. From bedding and bath to kitchen, furniture and so much more, the perfect wedding registry will include all of the things that you’ll want to have as you start this next chapter as a married couple.

One area to focus on is selecting great barware. You may be entertaining friends and family even more as newlyweds, so having the right glassware and tools that fit your entertaining style is important. To help with the process, Clinton Kelly, “Wedding’s Best Man” for Macy’s, shared his tips for building a wellstocked bar, as well as recipes to impress any guest.

Decide on a Style Whether it’s frilly and fluted or heavy and masculine, determine a style that best suits your taste. The traditional route is to get a suite of cut crystal, but these days, casual glassware is just as welcome on the table, as well as mixing different styles.

Know Thy Beverage Technically, just about every drink has an optimal glass silhouette. But unless you have unlimited storage space, consider what you like to drink and how you entertain. If your typical Saturday night involves eight-course dinners with wine pairings, register for a glass for each grape. For everyone else, consider eight to 12 each of the three or four glasses you’re most likely to use, Kelly added.

Shape it Up Most people go for red and white wine glasses, plus champagne flutes or ones for fortified wines.

When it comes to cocktails, start with highball glasses

which you can also use for water, and then pick specialty silhouettes based on your favorite beverages: martini glasses, margarita glasses, Irish coffee mugs and more. If you’re a beer drinker, load up on steins or pilsner glasses instead.

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plenty of accessories and tools: corkscrew, decanter, shaker, ice bucket and more.

And while you’re at it, why not a bar cart to hold it all?

ice. Shake it, then strain into a chilled glass and garnish with two olives or a twist of lemon. Substitute pearl onions to make it a Gibson.

• Margarita: Add one It’s 5 p.m. Somewhere part each tequila, triple Master these drink recipe sec, lime juice and simple ideas from Kelly and you’ll impress all your friends.

The Right Tool for Every • Martini: Add 2 ounces Drink of gin and a splash of verFill out your registry with mouth to a shaker filled with

syrup (you can use brown sugar for a caramel flavor) to a shaker filled with ice.

Mix and strain into a saltrimmed glass filled with ice.

Sub in spicy salt or jalapeno-infused tequila for some kick.

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While many engaged couples may already have household items such as kitchenware or bedding, not many have a selection of glasses or other barware items. In that circumstance, a set of beer steins or wine glasses would make a thoughtful gift.

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The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

Wedding trends ... couples are increasing spending SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.

— Thumbtack, an online service that connects consumers with skilled professionals has released its Thumbtack 2016 Wedding Trends Report. The new wedding theme is — no theme. Couples are increasingly focusing on small details — not big themes — to set their weddings apart.

Highlight videos are hot — Videographers are seeing an 8 percent uptick in requests for highlight videos, which incorporate personalized messages from guests and are created for social sharing.

Laser-cut details are everywhere. They are fea-

tured on invitations, place cards, and even place mats.

Laser-cutting will be especially popular.

Cupcakes aren’t going anywhere — 10 percent more couples will feature cupcakes for dessert in 2016, compared to 2015, showing that this personalized touch has staying power.

2016 couples are upping the ante: This year’s couples are spending noticeably more on wedding essentials compared to 2015.

There is a 20 percent increase in spending. The average couple will spend about $2,000 more on average, with much of that going to a more upscale

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dinner experience.

Formal receptions are on the rise. For 2016 weddings, there’s been a 26 percent increase in couples requesting servers for formal dinner receptions, and a 32 percent increase in couples requesting plated meals.

Traditional tiers — Cakes are also getting taller than ever, with a 55 percent increase in couples requesting a three-layer cake this year compared to last year.

Big, bold visuals have arrived. From wedding theme colors to bridal beauty looks, expect 2016 weddings to feature big visuals.

Glam beauty — More and more brides are eschewing the “safe” natural and romantic beauty look.

There’s been a 75 percent increase in brides requesting glam hair and makeup, with touches like highlights and contouring and bold lip colors.

Beyond natural — Brides plan to go beyond “born with it” in 2016. The data shows a 70 percent increase in requests for false eyelashes and airbrushing.

There’s been a 15 percent

increase in brides planning to wear a classic veil.

Bright palettes — Popular colors this year include bursts of reds and bright blues, along with pops of yellow as an accent, and gray neutrals to hold it all together. Metallic accents stay popular this year, emphasizing the glam factor.

Based on an average price quoted for wedding essentials for Thumbtack weddings in 2016, national averages show that the amount the average American couple will spend is $12,189 on essential wedding services.

This excludes the venue, dress, and rings for a wedding with 98 guests on average. The average age marrying age of a Thumbtack couple is 33.

The top five most expensive states to get married are Connecticut - $17,211; New York - $16,305; District of Columbia - $15,835; Rhode Island - $15,233; and Pennsylvania - $14,722.

The top five least expensive states to get married are Missouri - $9,031; Nevada - $9,095; Arizona - $9,593;

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Regional differences Northeast and MidAtlantic affairs tend to be more expensive. This higher cost is most often driven by formal dinners and a large number of guests. In New York, 33 percent of couples request plated dinners. In Washington, D.C., 48 percent of couples request hors d’oeuvres.

Midwestern states throw the biggest weddings.

Weddings are the biggest in Midwestern states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, where over 60 percent of couples welcome 100+ guests. The smallest weddings are in destination wedding locations like Hawaii, where 43 percent of couples welcome fewer than 20 guests.

Barebcue and Mexican catering vs. Italian and American cuisine: Italian and American food are crowd pleasers at weddings across the country. In fact, there are only two states that would prefer another type of cuisine at weddings — both Kentucky and South Carolina prefer barbecue.

Unsurprisingly, Mexican is popular throughout the Southwest, with 43 percent of couples in New Mexico requesting Mexican food.

Pop music reigns at the reception, but country’s close behind. Wedding guests across the majority of the United States (46 states) prefer pop music, but country is a close second choice in several states, including Texas.

Vermont braids and Southern locks: Brides across the country love a timeless romantic look.

Brides in Vermont prefer to accent their look with braids, while brides in most other locales prefer a halfup/half-down look. Long curly hair is especially popular in Southern states like Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

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Millennials stressed, but are still optimistic about financial future (BPT) — Millennials — those between 18 and 34 years old — are now the largest generation in American history, constituting 25 percent of the population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. They’ve surpassed baby boomers in number and are poised to exceed that generation’s financial impact on the country. So it’s concerning news that a new Bank of America/USA Today Better Money Habits Report found that while 84 percent of millennials are confident in their ability to manage their finances, 41 percent report feeling “chronically stressed” about money and more than half say anxiety about money affects their emotional well-being.

“Even though millennials are confident about money and focused on their finances, they’re still experiencing a great deal of stress.

That’s due in part to factors out of their control — a volatile global economy, a challenging job market and, to some extent, the student debt they’ve taken on,” said Andrew Plepler, Global Corporate Social Responsibility executive, Bank of America. “Amid the uncertainty, it’s important to focus on things they can control, such as their level of financial knowledge and awareness. This survey indicates there may be room for more effective financial management efforts that make it easier for millennials to take greater control of their finances, and hopefully alleviate some of the stress they feel.”

Although millennials are optimistic and are actively trying to take control of their finances, outside pressures are getting in the way. They often worry about the cost of living, lack of income growth, student debt, housing costs and more financial concerns.

Despite these stressors, millennials haven’t necessarily lost confidence in their ability to manage money. Most respondents (more than eight in 10) said they feel “confident” or “very confident” when it comes to personal finance.

A much smaller percentage (17 percent) consider themselves “experts” on the topic.

“We don’t expect young people to be experts,” explained Plepler, “which is why we partnered with Khan Academy to create BetterMoneyHabits.com.

The website is free for all and provides information on-demand when you need it.”

Examples of content found on BetterMoneyHabits.com include: Create and stick to a budget. You can do this with

these simple steps: • Learn your monthly take-home pay which is the amount you actually get after taxes, insurance and 401K contributions come out of your salary.

• Tally monthly fixed expenses, those costs that don’t fluctuate much throughout the year, such as rent or mortgage, car payments, student loan payments, etc.

•Calculate variable monthly expenses, such as phone or other utilities, groceries, clothes, entertainment, etc.

• Decide what’s really important. Some expenses are musts, like rent. Others are “wants,” such as a premium cable package or unlimited texting. With a close look, you’ll likely find wants you can curtail in order to spend less.

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Defiance couple engaged Justin Killion and Kristina Skeldon, both of Defiance, will exchange wedding vows on Aug. 26, 2016, at the Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance. The couple became engaged last year in April when Justin proposed to Kristina in Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World. She accepted his proposal with tears in her eyes. He had secretly planned to offer her a romantic proposal at Cinderella’s Castle and — with a little family assistance — the plan worked perfectly.

Protect and Preserve Your Wedding Gown Cheryl Retcher and Francis Flores show Justin and Kris the professional and quality care used in preserving bridal gowns.

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Ideas for celebrating your 25th anniversary  8

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Bridal Village

(AP) — The Baby Boom generation has put its own stamp on many traditions, so why should 25th wedding anniversaries be different? Many couples are ditching convention when it comes to marking the milestone.

“When they get to these more dramatic occasions, so many couples want to do something exciting and different,” said Charles Schmitz of St. Louis. He and his wife, Elizabeth, are marriage counselors and authors, most recently of “How to Marry the Right Guy” (Briarcliff, 2014).

“They don’t want to go to their favorite Italian restaurant.”

Schmitz said that “upending experiences,” whether that’s going on safari or serving dinner “all splendid in nothing,” strengthen marriages, especially

when they involve “thinking about those wonderful moments in our relationships.

For many of us, however, that may be easier said than done; there are time and money constraints, to say nothing of not owning that Mustang — yet.

Celebrating your 25th in a meaningful way doesn’t require big expenditures or elaborate staging, said Pepper Schwartz, a University of WashingtonSeattle sociologist who works with AARP’s Life Reimagined program.

“A 25th anniversary can be celebrated in two ways.

One is celebrating who you have been to each other.

The other is celebrating the future,” she said.

Keeping the occasion in perspective — i.e., not freaking out — is also wise.

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The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

you do before you jump off the face of the Earth,” Schwartz said. “It’s a big moment, and it deserves to be celebrated by something memorable that makes you excited for the future.”

Here are some ideas to try, some of which require very little money or planning.

• Change things up at home. That could mean anything from stringing celebratory lights outside to sprucing up the house.

Paint the bedroom wall or rearrange your living room furniture. It doesn’t matter what, as long as it’s “just something that says, this changed on our 25th,” Schwartz said.

• Do something especially romantic at home. Read poetry to each other by candlelight, for instance. Or have your favorite food for dinner, even if it involves marshmallows.

• Mark the day permanently, which doesn’t necessarily mean getting a tattoo (although if you’re considering it, now could be good time). Inscribe a small plaque with the date and occasion, and put it on a piece of outdoor furniture. Or have a professional photo taken of the two of you. Write your names in a slab of wet cement.

• Have a day of service — to each other. If you usu• 25TH, Page 9

RENAE SABO and KYLE TIETJE

Kyle and Renae were college sweethearts Kyle Tietje and Renae Sabo were entrants in The Crescent-News Bridal Couple Contest.

The couple met at Defiance College during the fall semester in 2009.

They dated all four years of college and currently work in the area.

Kyle works for the Patrick Henry Local School District as the high school physical education and health teacher and also coaches girls varsity basketball at Patrick Henry High School.

Renae works for the Defiance County Child Support Enforcement Agency as an administrative/legal assistant.

Kyle first noticed Renae in the practice gym at the college. The men’s basketball team was lifting

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weights in the upstairs weight room, which was called the cage, and Renae was practicing with the cheerleading squad on the floor down below. Kyle texted one of Renae’s teammates asking questions about her. They spent the rest of the season as friends, then began dating in July 2010.

Soon after they began dating, Kyle got Renae a puppy for her birthday.

They named him Ringo and he has been with them throughout college and now at their home.

When Kyle proposed to Renae at their home, he pulled the ring out of the couch cushion and Ringo almost ruined the surprise as he was sniffing under the couch and making Renae suspicious most of the evening.

The couple’s wedding date is Sept. 3, 2016. The ceremony will be held at St. John Lutheran Church, in Deshler. Their reception will be at the Knights of Columbus hall in Defiance. Their photographer is Julie’s Portrait Creations from Napoleon.

Renae said she plans to look for her wedding dress at Bridal Village and Alterations in Hicksville.

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

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Some nifty DIY wedding trends Family Features

Pinboards are buzzing with endless inspiration, bringing clever and colorful projects to life. For brides to be, the hottest looks in wedding decor can be yours with just a bit of creativity.

The evolution of touch is underway, with fabrics and embellishments featuring texture and intrigue becoming huge hits this bridal season. Take materials such as burlap, chalkboard finishes, monogram letters and mason jars to the next level by mixing and matching with the season’s colors.

Picture your big day with pretty petals adorned in lace offset by rustic trimmings. This understated yet feminine look can be yours with these trending projects from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. Take these ideas and gather your girlfriends for a pre-wedding craft session.

You’ll love unleashing your creativity as well as the extra bonding time with the girls, all in preparation for the big event.

For more ways to add trending touches to your

25TH

From Page 8

ally cook and your spouse mows the lawn, switch jobs for the day. Neither of you will get off scot-free, but the effort shows you’re willing to help carry the burden.

• Have a day of service — to others. Do something charitable, whether it’s making a donation somewhere or serving dinner at a shelter. It’s nice to be reminded after 25 years how good we have it.

• Learn something new together. It doesn’t matter what: speaking French, tending to bonsai trees, restoring cars, learning massage therapy. When not in class, you can study together, and eventually apply your new skills.

A burlap cone floral hangar

A floral centerpiece

wedding, visit www.joann. cream • Green mini bundle com.

Burlap Cone Floral Hanger Crafting time: 1-2 hours Skill level: No experience necessary Supplies and Tools: • Cutting utensils • Thin wire • Wire or boutonniere pins • Panacea burlap garland • Two Styrofoam brand foam cones • Glue gun • Glue sticks • Ribbon of choice • Hydrangeas: one green and peach, two peach and

Directions: • Cut wire into hairpin shaped pieces or use boutonniere pins. Cut one yard of burlap per cone. Fold burlap in half and wrap cone from bottom to top.

Pin burlap to cone. Not all of it will be covered. Run glue along seam; press to secure. Attach ribbon to create hanger. Glue in place.

Trim hydrangea short. Glue to top of cone. Trim several clusters from hydrangea. Glue to cover exposed • TRENDS, Page 10

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Engagement ring In this picture, Justin Killion is shown holding the hand of his fiancee Kristina Skeldon after he proposed to her at Disney World in Orlando, Fla., last year. The couple has been together since they met on a blind date in 2014 at the Northtowne Mall to see a movie. Justin secretly planned a proposal that he was going to make to Kristina on their trip to Disney World in April 2015. . The couple will be married on Aug. 26, 2016, at the Heritage Baptist Church in Defiance.

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The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

Some important tax tips for newly married couples (BPT) — In most parts of the country, the months of June, August, September and October are the most popular for weddings.

Whether recently married or anxiously counting the days until you tie the knot, there are some important tax implications that you and your spouse can’t afford to overlook.

“In between the flurry of wedding planning, dress shopping and bridal showers, few engaged couples stop to think about how getting married will affect their income taxes,” explained TaxAct spokesman, Shaunna Morgan. “While it’s important to understand the tax consequences, keep in mind that you can still do your own taxes. TaxAct, a leading DIY tax solution, asks simple questions about life events like marriage to guide you through the tax implications and help you

get all of your deductions to maximize your refund.”

Name changes Your name(s) and Social Security number(s) are critical elements of your tax return. Both identifiers must exactly match the information the Social Security Administration (SSA) has on file. That means if you legally change your name after you get married, the SSA needs to know about it.

To get a Social Security card with your new name, you’ll need to provide proof of identity, such as a marriage certificate, fill out an application and either mail it or deliver it in person to your local SSA office. You’ll want to do this long before you file your income tax return.

New address If you’re moving, remember to report your new address to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The

F R I E N D LY , T S , FA

LOCAL

fastest way to make the change is to complete Form 8822 available on the agency website at www.irs.gov.

New filing status Once you’ve said, “I do,” you’ll have the option to claim one of two filing statuses on your tax return: married filing jointly or married filing separately. If you and your spouse each earn an income, you might consider running the numbers to determine if you have a lower combined tax by filing one way versus the other. Some tax software packages do the calculations for you so it’s easier to make an informed decision when selecting a filing status. TaxAct Deluxe, for example, gives users a Joint vs. Separate Analysis report that does all the calculations so you can see your

estimated refund amounts for each filing status. For many couples, married filing jointly results in lower income tax liability.

Keep in mind that no matter when in the year you get married, you are considered married for the full year. Even if your big day is December 31, you will have a married status in the eyes of the IRS for the entirety of that tax year.

Changing your tax withholding Any time you have a life change you should revisit your Form W-4. Getting married is definitely one of those times. If both you and your spouse work, you’ll likely have a higher combined income, which may put you into a higher tax bracket. In order to ensure the right amount of tax is

withheld from your paycheck, you’ll want to update your Form W-4 to ensure you aren’t having too much or too little tax withheld.

Affordable Care Act premium tax credit If you or your spouse receive health insurance through a governmentsponsored marketplace and receive advance payments of the premium tax credit to help offset the cost of your premiums, you’ll want to review your coverage after the wedding, and notify the marketplace of your newly married status. Reporting this change will help you avoid having too much or too little premium assistance paid and ultimately, help you steer clear of owing additional money or getting a small refund when you file your taxes.

TRENDS Page 9

(Note: Refer to photo often for placement of items.)

foam, creating a dripping ice cream affect.

• Trim half of mini bundle and glue in center. Trim blossoms of green hydrangea. Glue to both cones.

Burlap and Lace Wrapped Floral Centerpiece Crafting time: 1-2 hours Skill level: Some experience necessary Supplies and Tools:

• Cutting utensils • Pink roses stem • White Queen Ann Lace stem • White hydrangea bush • Light blue small bush • Pink small bush • Teal small bush • Teal tall bush • Cream wisteria garland • Panacea cloth-covered wire • Glue gun • Glue sticks • David Tutera burlap ribbon • Mason jar • David Tutera lace ribbon • Panacea crystal clear resin Directions: • Trim stems, removing lower foliage. Form a hand-tied bouquet. Tie off with wire. Dribble glue around wire to secure.

Let dry. Wrap burlap ribbon around Mason jar, overlapping 1 inch. Glue seam. Wrap lace around jar and tie in knot. Pour resin in jar. Follow package instructions.

Insert bouquet. Allow to dry. (Note: Refer to photo often for placement of items.)

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The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

Bridal Tab

 11

Several wedding gift ideas for more casual lifestyles

(BPT) — While your wedding should be the happiest day of your life, it can also be the happiest day for your kitchen. With a wellplanned registry, you’ll be enjoying the fun, creativity and bonding of cooking together at home for years to come — from leisurely weekend breakfasts to romantic dinners and toasts to cap off the day.

A wedding registry should reflect how you really live. Not everyone focuses their social life on formal dinner parties with the kind of fine china, silverware and crystal found on traditional wedding gift lists.

Today’s registries reflect current lifestyles with new twists and trends.

“Wedding registries are trending toward more casual, hip and high-tech kitchenware, such as nonstick woks instead of chafing dishes and iced tea makers instead of tea pots,” said Peter Giannetti, editorin-chief of HomeWorld Business. “Also, registries are not as bride-centric as they used to be. With both brides and grooms involved, gifts such as high-tech coffee centers and growlers for craft beer are becoming more popular.”

Selecting gifts at a variety of price points is both good etiquette and good strategy.

Big-ticket items give guests

the opportunity for a grand gesture, and they also make great group gifts. Be sure to include moderately priced items that are appealing and distinctive, so that everyone can feel good about what they give. For many, it is more satisfying to give something that’s special and specific, rather than one small piece for a set.

On-trend wedding registry gift ideas • The growler is becoming a new must-have for those who love locally brewed craft beer, while also wanting to lead eco-friendly lifestyles that avoid the waste of excess disposable packaging. Created for filling with craft beer, the Reduce Vacuum Growler features double wall insulation that protects the beverage for full flavor enjoyment at just the right temperature.

• Teatime is now cool, because 85 percent of the tea consumed in America is iced, according to the Tea Association of the USA. One to consider is an iced tea maker that offers a fully customizable iced tea brewing experience from either loose tea or tea bags. The Capresso Iced Tea Maker lets you adjust to taste from regular to extra strong, and it brews into a beautiful 80-ounce glass pitcher.

• Pepper and salt mills are focal points on the counter

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

About 85 percent of the tea consumed in America is iced tea, thus making an iced tea maker a wellreceived wedding gift.

or the table, in addition to being everyday essentials.

A unique choice that ties into popular decor trends is the Collection Antique from Peugeot, which combines iconic shapes with rustic aged beech wood.

Designed and produced in France, these are keepsake mills with a lifetime warranty on the mechanisms.

• The wok has evolved into a versatile everyday pan for quickly prepared meals with delicious, fresh ingredients. You should look for a high quality nonstick wok engineered to professional grade standards. The Kyocera 12.5-

inch Nonstick Wok with Lid features an exclusive ceramic nonstick coating and can be used for braising, pan-frying, roasting, searing and stir-frying.

• Coffee lovers appreciate a true bean-to-cup experience and who wouldn’t want a professional-style coffee bar in their own home?

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Charitable gift makes a unique wedding favor  12

Family Features

Pamper your wedding guests with a special keepsake they can treasure.

After all, you want to thank each and every one of them for sharing in your special moment. It’s also a fun way for them to remember the celebration long after the wedding day is over.

Here are a few ideas to spoil your guests: • Place a small silver bell at each place setting, and then observe the tradition of kissing your new spouse each time one rings.

• Fill favor boxes or organza bags with a sweet treat, such as Jordan almonds or

2016 Bridal Tab

pillow mints.

• Small silver frames can do double-duty as wedding favors and place card holders.

• Greet guests at an outdoor wedding with ornate fans to keep them cool.

• Encourage your guests to kick up (or off) their heels by providing a basket of cute flip flops for dancing.

Another memorable gift is to honor your guests with a donation to a charity that is special to you and your fiancee. Announce your gift on a handcrafted tag attached to a beautiful candle. The decorative candles can be clustered around the centerpieces at the recep-

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

tion or simply used as the centerpiece itself. To find more wedding ideas, project guides and supplies, visit www.joann.com.

Charitable Gift Wedding Favor

Some experience necessary Crafting time: 1-2 hours Supplies and tools: Pillar candle Cork roll Cardstock, green & brown Kraft paper or brown paper grocery bag Green ribbon Jute cord Small wood beads Flower punches in a variety of shapes & sizes Upholstery tack Adhesive dots, large Straight pins Scallop-edge shears Scissors Mini hole punch Recycled papers, such as old books, sheet music, newspapers, postcards, memorabilia Directions: Punch five flowers using flower punches in different shapes and sizes. Use a variety of recycled papers for

Photo courtesy of Family Features

Suggestions for wedding favors to make your guests feel welcome might include small silver frames used as place card holders and as wedding favors or a donation to a charity that is special to you and your fiance. a vintage appearance. With an upholstery tack, pierce all layers of flowers; set aside. Cut green cardstock strip 3-inch wide and 1/2-inch longer than circumference of candle. Cut both long edges and one short end with scallop-edge shears.

Punch mini holes in each scallop. Wrap around candle, overlap and secure with adhesive dots. Cut a strip of cork 13/4-

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inch wide and the same length as green cardstock. Cut one end of cork strip with scalloped edge shears; attach to candle with three straight pins, at the scalloped end.

Print the donation message on brown cardstock. Cut out in a tag shape and mount on a slightly larger green cardstock tag. Scallop the green cardstock end, punch a hole at the narrow end of the tag and on each of the scallops. Tie ribbon once around cork and knot at the front. Tie cord around cork several times, string on the tag and tie in a knot. Press layered flower with upholstery tack into cork, over knots. Tie two more lengths of jute around flower and knot. String a few small wood beads over the ends of some of the cords, and tie love knots to secure.

Trace a 5-inch circle on the back of green cardstock. Cut a petaled flower, using the circle shape as a guide. Using the green flower as a template, cut two more 5-inch flowers from recycled paper. Attach these to each other with adhesive dots, ruffling, wrinkling and distressing the edges. Cut a smaller green flower, slightly larger than the circumference of the candle. Cut the edges with scallop-edge shears and attach to the top of the stack of flowers, with the candle centered in the middle.

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

Bridal Tab

Can’t buy me love? Engagement ring buying tips

Associated Press

You’re in love and ready to buy an engagement ring.

But are you ready to part with three months’ salary as the diamond industry has traditionally suggested?

If not, what’s your magic number?

Figuring that out can be a stressful, high-stakes undertaking. Engagement rings come with unique financial and emotional expectations. And in a relationship intended to last a lifetime, it’s the first big test.

“It does set a certain tone about whether a woman’s expectations will be met by her husband or not,” said Julie Albright, a sociologist and marriage and family therapist at the University of Southern California.

Even so, how much to spend rests in striking a balance between dazzling your beloved without tarnishing your future financial goals together.

Here are five tips to help you size up how much to spend on an engagement ring.

CONSIDER FUTURE FINANCIAL GOALS

Whether you have a wheelbarrow full of cash ready to bring to your local jewelry store or not, your future plans as a couple should be part of the calculus for how much you can afford.

Sit down with your partner and go over your short- and long-term financial goals. Beyond wedding expenses, goals could include saving for a down payment on a home, preparing to start a family, as well as retirement planning.

“This is the perfect entry point to see where each person’s money values come from,” said Michael Branham, a certified financial planner in Edina, Minn.

“How are we going to put that life together and how does buying something like an engagement ring fit into that picture?”

GET A FIX ON EXPECTATIONS

First off, don’t feel compelled to heed to the expectation that a ring cost three months’ salary, the benchmark established by the De Beers diamond cartel.

“That’s actually kind of a myth that people somehow still believe,” said Jamie Miles, editor of wedding planning website TheKnot. com.

“You might have a more subtle bride who wants something more petite and more demure,” Miles said.

A good way to gauge how much you may have to spend is to find out what kind of ring your wouldbe spouse is expecting. You could try asking friends and family, but these days it’s increasingly common to see couples browse jewelry stores together to remove the guesswork.

Last year, 64 percent of brides were involved in picking out their ring, while nearly a third helped decide the budget, according to a survey by The Knot.

That could be one reason the national average spent on an engagement ring, as well as diamond carat size, or weight, have been rising.

The average spent on an engagement ring grew 3 percent to $5,598 last year from a year earlier, according to TheKnot. That’s still down from 2009’s average of $5,861, however.

The average carat size for the center stone is just over 1 carat. The average total carat size for engagement rings, including any diamonds on the setting, is 2 carats, Miles said.

WEIGH PAYMENT OPTIONS?

You’ve had a look at the setting and diamonds (or other gemstones) that your beloved covets, and figured out which merchants offer the best price. The next step is to figure out how you will pay for the ring, as that can be a huge factor in how much ring you can afford.

If you can put off the pro-

posal, it’s best to save up money to buy the ring with cash, said Gregg Wind, a certified public accountant in Los Angeles.

Otherwise, how much you can afford becomes a question of how much extra you’ll have to shell out overall if you finance the purchase, and how much you can pay per month while also meeting your other obligations.

Everybody should determine whether the ring payment will fit into their budget, Wind said.

This savings goal calculator from Bankrate.com may help: http://www. bankrate.com/calculators/ savings/saving-goals-calculator.aspx

BEWARE OF FINANCING

Major jewelers generally offer financing with the enticement of six months or one year interest-free.

But if the ring isn’t paid off within the promotional period, or if you’re late on a payment, you could end up being retroactively charged 25 percent interest or more on the total price.

“You want to be really careful how big of a hole you dig yourself in the beginning of your relationship trying to pay off a $1,000 or $2,000 or more ring with huge interest charges every month, just because you didn’t have the forethought or wherewithal to save for it over time,” Branham said.

One exception might be if you have a credit card that offers rewards, such as free points toward air travel. But only if you can pay the balance off in full within the first month.

UPGRADE LATER

Even if you determine that you can’t afford as nice a ring as you hoped, consider buying something more modest and popping the question anyway. You can always trade up for a nicer ring in a few years when your financial picture is more established.

 13

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Tips to writing the perfect card or note  14

2016 Bridal Tab

Family Features

Everyone loves to discover a handwritten card or note in a thick stack of mail. Regardless of how many electronic words we get bombarded with each day, the personal touch of a message written by hand remains a special gesture that never goes out of style.

From choosing a card or stationery that reflects a personal style to accenting the letter with the right seal or stamp, every detail matters to underscore a thoughtful message. Stamps are often one of the first details noted by a letter recipient, so choosing a stamp such as the love-letter themed Sealed with Love Forever stamp from usps. com/stamps or your local post office is perfect for the occasion.

Not sure what sentiment to write for the occasion?

Here are a few ideas:

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

Birthday cards: Celebrate one’s personal accomplishments in the past year and any special events planned in the next year ahead.

End by telling your friend or loved one why he or she is so important to you. That message may just be the best gift you can give.

Celebratory cards: When acknowledging the birth of a baby or the recent wedding of a friend or relative, pick a card they will want to save and treasure for years to come. When writing your sentiment inside, keep congratulations simple and let them know you share in their joy.

New job: Starting a job at a new company or changing one’s career path can be a time for renewal and exciting beginnings. A sincere message wishing a friend or loved one luck and adding advice that he or she might find helpful is often a Notes of appreciation: Whether welcome message to show somethe recipient gave you a gift, hosted one you care. you for dinner or did a special Condolence cards: If a friend favor, keep the message brief and is going through a difficult time, sincere. Don’t ever hesitate to send share special memories you have a note of appreciation just to let of the person who passed away and someone know how truly special why you will miss having that perthey are. Unexpected notes are son in your life. End by offering to always wonderful to receive. call or visit in the near future. These

Photo courtesy of Daniel Afzal/United States Postal Service

Taking the time to send a per- that is appreciated in this age of sonal note, card or letter is an act electronic communication.

gestures, plus the card itself, will remind the recipient they aren’t alone in their grief.

Remember, cards and notes are about letting another person know

how much their friendship, gifts or presence means to you. Follow a simple formula, add a few personal touches and you will soon be writing cards with ease.

Fiance and finances: Questions to ask before marriage Family Features

Marriage is a milestone in life; yet, many enter into the next phase without asking their spouse some vital questions about money. If you are among the soonto-be wed, consider starting a conversation using the questions below. Couples who plan their expenses ahead of time are more likely to enjoy their earnings, and less likely to need credit repair intervention.

“Marriage is a lifelong commitment built on trust, clear communication and honesty,” said John Heath, directing attorney

for Lexington Law. “While some may find financial discussions unnecessary, understanding each other intimately in terms of what you both bring to the table — be it wealth or debt — will strengthen your relationship and help to avoid potentially serious friction to your marriage down the road.”

Discussing money matters So how does one go into a marriage with a solid financial standing? Those soonto-be-wed couples who converse openly about their finances are more likely to enjoy their big day with an understanding of their

mate’s views on money.

The experts at Lexington Law offer these questions every newly engaged couple should ask before the big day: How do you view money?

This is a loaded question, but your fiance’s answer will help you understand their perspective and how it aligns with yours. Here are a few conversation starters on the subject: • How do you budget your money?

• Are you meticulous about your bills and expenses, or are you comfortable to just “wing it?”

• What’s the most you

would ever spend on a home, car, piece of clothing, etc.?

How should we budget for a family?

Kids are expensive, especially if you haven’t planned for them. Talk to your partner about how many kids you would both like to have. Plan for child living expenses and how they will impact your budget, i.e. clothes, food, activities, medical expenses, schooling, etc.

How should we communicate about money?

Some couples are content to let one person handle the finances, and others like to

split up the bills and share household responsibilities.

Regardless of what you decide, it is important to have a plan in place before getting married.

What should we do when we disagree about spending?

You and your spouse won’t agree on everything.

In fact, you may completely disagree on how to spend, save, and generally manage your money. The question is: What should you do when these disagreements arise? Avoiding the subject will put you at greater risk for financial (and marital) trouble.

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016 2016

Bridal Tab

 15

Bachelorette parties favor relaxation for participants

(BPT) — As a rite of passage, the bachelorette party has long gotten a bum rap.

Stereotypes persist of the bride’s night-before-thewedding gathering as a ladies-only version of the raucous bachelor party.

Yet the truth is, a growing number of brides crave a tasteful, relaxing and deeply personal send-off for their single days.

In fact, a relaxing getaway ranked high as an ideal bachelorette party for 59 percent of brides-to-be in the Ultimate Bridesmaids Census. Sixty-seven percent wanted dinner, dancing and time spent with their closest friends, and 23 percent wanted something non-traditional that really reflected their personal interests.

“Bachelorette parties are as unique as the women they celebrate,” said Michael Belot, general manager of Destination Kohler — home to AAA five-diamond and Forbes five-star hotel that hosts scores of brides, bridesmaids and weddings each year.

“We’re seeing an emphasis on relaxation for the bride and companionship with her friends in today’s bachelorette parties. Brides want to spend their special night — and often an entire weekend — in a soothing, stress-free atmosphere before the hectic pace of their wedding day.”

So what are the things that brides and bridesmaids tell the Destination Kohler team they must have for their bachelorette soirees? Belot points to five in-demand elements: • Spa time Whether it’s a group manipedi, a yoga class or a lunch of delicious, healthful spa cuisine, bachelorette groups crave spa time. Parties are looking for spas that offer a comprehensive list of salon services, familiar and new massages and body treatments, and easy access to luxury accommodations.

For example, at Destination Kohler, bachelorette groups often book rooms in the Carriage House, which is

located above the Forbes five-star Kohler Waters Spa. Participants can spend the day in their spa robes if they choose. “Kohler Waters Spa is by far the most popular request and activity among bachelorette parties, and is often the center of the trip,” said Garrett Mersberger, manager of Kohler Waters Spas. Playing to this trend, many resorts have created female-centric spa packages like the Girls Getaway.

• Great food Forget the pigs in a blanket, deviled eggs and other de rigeur finger foods long associated with bridal showers. Modern bachelorette groups are looking for dining options that are luxurious and delicious, or that accommodate lifestyle needs such as gluten-free or low-calorie diets. Spa fare often fits well with this preference. Resorts with multiple dining options afford bachelorette guests the opportunity to dine lightly for lunch and then enjoy a more indulgent dinner.

• Bonding activities Hitting the bar and dancing the night away are no longer the only bonding activities for bachelorette groups. From yoga classes and golf outings to wine and chocolate pairings, brides-to-be are looking for more diverse, sophisticated activities they can do with their girlfriends.

• A location “away from it all” Nearly a third of respondents in the Bridesmaid Census said they didn’t want to go crazy for a bachelorette party, they just wanted to enjoy time with their friends. Perhaps it’s because their lives are about to change dramatically. Maybe it’s a need to reaffirm the girlfriend bond that has seen them through life’s ups and downs to reach this happy point in their lives. Whatever their reasons, a growing number of brides are looking for a bachelorette experience that transports them and their closest friends far away

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Today’s bachelorette parties can offer brides-to-be a luxurious day at a spa and a special meal at a fine res-

from their daily routines.

Some fulfill this wish by choosing a resort location far from home. Others may choose accommodations that are more intimate. At Destination Kohler, bachelorette parties can also opt to stay at Sandhill, the resort’s luxury private cabin

taurant. Some parties may have yoga classes, mani-pedis or wine tastings.

that sits on 350 natural acres just a 10-minute drive from the resort.

• Personalization Twenty-three percent of surveyed brides said they wanted a bachelorette party that was deeply personal and tailored to their individual tastes and interests.

For some, that’s a spa experience. For others, a golf getaway. Even when they’ve booked a bachelorette package, brides and their bridesmaids are looking for ways the resort can customize their experience. Add-ons are popular, from spa treatments to wine tastings.

Enjoy Disney World

The Crescent-News bridal couple for 2016, Justin Killion and Kristina Skeldon are shown here enjoying a trip to Disney World in April last year.

Unbeknownst to Kristina, Justin secret-

ly planned a dinner at Cinderella’s Castle where he proposed to her and gave her an engagement ring. The couple will marry in August this year.

 16

2016 Bridal Tab

The Crescent-News, Defiance, Ohio - Thursday, February 11, 2016

Getting married in 2016?

Submit your engagement & wedding announcements for publication in The Crescent-News

Justin proposes to Kristina

C2Lifestyle

On April 18, 2015, Justin Killion proposed to a surprised Kristina Skeldon at Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World in Orlando, Fla. The couple plans to marry on Aug. 26, 2016, in Defiance. They met on a blind date at the Northtowne Mall in Defiance in 2014.

C2Lifestyle

Wedding insurance expands as nuptials get pricier

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LIFESTYLE

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LIFESTYLE

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HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Worried about the groom getting cold feet? There’s an insurance policy for that.

With the cost of the average American wedding reaching about $26,000, insurers have been selling a growing number of policies to protect against losses from extreme weather, illness and, in one firm’s case, even a sudden change of heart.

Cheryl Winter spent $500 for Hartford-based Travelers Cos. Inc. to cover her daughter’s $50,000 destination wedding last October in New Orleans, where her biggest concern was a potential hurricane.

The weather cooperated, but the limousine never showed up. Her daughter took a taxi cab to the church, and they used the insurance policy to claim the deposit money they couldn’t get back from the limo driver.

“No one wants to be walking in the French Quarter in a long gown and high heels,” said Winter, who lives in the Houston area.

The insurance is offered by a small number of U.S. companies. Insurers declined to provide data on the number

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n C2

Crescent-News

Kids’ Photo Album & Cutest Baby Contest

The Crescent-News

1, 2015 • Sunday, February

uple to marry in early 2015 Mr. and Mrs. William Bidlack

Mr. OAKWOOD — William Mrs. and d, Bidlack, of Oakwoo 60th will celebrate theirary. wedding anniversBidlack William “Bill” Wagner Jean and Phyllis Feb. 6, were married Potsdam the at 1955, , Church of the Brethren

by Rev. Potsdam, Ohio, L. John Weaver. three The couple has Bidlack children: Bruce Heights, of Harker Marlean Texas; Laura Zurich, Barrett of Lake Bidlack, Ill.; and Robert have Paulding. They eight grandchildren.

Mr. and OAKWOOD — will Mrs. Harold Williamswed65th celebrate their ding anniversary. and Harold Williams marRuth Stahl were in the ried Feb. 4, 1950, United Contine ntal the by Methodist Church Sanderson. late Rev. Frank three has The couple (Jane) children: Douglas Rossford; Williams of Williams of David (Wendy) (Chris) Dawn and ; Minerva City, Bussing of Rainbowgrandnine Ala. They had one grandchildren, with deceased. child who is greatThey have nine grandchildren. special To celebrate their will occasion, the Williams a trip to be escorted on children.

Mexico by their

2014

NAPOLEON — Thom and Linda Behnfeldt, as Napoleon, announce of engagement and forthc the oming marriage of their daugh ter, Bethany Behnfeldt, to Williams Zackary Lerch, the Mr. and Mrs. Harold son of Scott and Julie Lerch , of Napoleon.

The bride-elect is a and graduate of Napoleon 2010 Stephanie Bristow married High Nick Meyer were St. Mary at School and a 2014 gradu Sept. 27, 2014, Muncie, Catholic Church, Benjamin of Bluffton University ate Ind., by Father with Lehnertz. bride are the of a degre Parents e in recreation manBristow, Mike and Jan Parents of Ind. ageme Muncie, nt. She is emplo and Jane the groom are Jeff d. by the city of Green yed Meyer, Sherwoo held for in the A reception was 950 in parks 275 guests at Barn and recreation diviDaleville, Ind. bachelor sion as a recreation The bride has a from Ball proof science degree Muncie, grammer.

State University, unicaInd., in telecomm broadcastHer fiance is a 2010 gradtions and news suping. She is a product at BidPal, uate port specialist of Napoleon High Ind. Inc., Indianapolis, a bachSchoo The groom has degree l and will be gradu elor of science State ing in May 2015 from atfrom Bowling Green n as University in educatio specialist.

University of Akron the an intervention of stewHe is the director ent a degree in corrosion with ardship and developm Evangelist engiat St. John the Church , neerin Bethany Catholi c g.

Behn Ind. olis, feldt Mr. andThe Indianap oned Mrs. Nick Meyer The couple honeymo couple will exchange in Oahu, Hawaii.

Adv. wedding vows in early 2015.

INES L IFE L .

Smiling Faces

in Couple has honeymoon

Hawaii

Zackary Lerch and of customers beyond saying they are growing steadily. It The 2015 from issues can cover losses miling aces cent-News Marriage will be in Findlay Zackary rangingCresfrom bankrupt 2014 Child to o ren’s Photo h P s’ Album Kidhallsuto Brides Just Wanngt wedding cancellaRachel Ricker m a Little Help Planni lb and Ryan Otto A Featu ring thed tions forced by unexpecty ‘Bab ies la of 2014’ in F and other child in ! ren and grandchildren ay e b D g l il Bi & w Their age otos to ed military deployments.

Pub ed on Ricker chellish 5 aby with Phapfupell coarloinr Marri FridRa ay, Mar st Bissues cho 20, 2015 an Ott and Ry Travelers said Cute Bri dal Ext rav aga nza 201 2014 Children’s Photo Album ontest vendors C account for about a quarter of the claims,turiwith s of 2014’ ry 8 ng the ‘Babie ndchildren Sunday, Februa Fea Photo deadline is Frida y, January 30, 2015 ldren and gra ion Hal l are normally printed within 2 weeks and other chi to most of those related at Gra nt’s Rec ept on Published issues with photographers h 20, 2015after being received and should be Friday, Marc If your child is 4 years old or videographers. or younger, enter the in the .to . . the submitted at least 2 weeksmprior For Travelers, an insur2015 30, y uar Jan ay, wedding. 2015 ance giant withPhotoannual deadline is Frid revenue of $26 billion, the Winners to be anno unced in the Smiling policies will not make or Faces Issue! ars old is 4 ye GRAND PRIZE: If your child the . . .

SECOND PRIZE: in em th ter en break the bottom But $1000 or younger, line. $500 plus photo on cover of the the wedding insurance it 2015 Smiling Faces THIRD PRIZE: Issue Radcliff receives ho $2 50for free up yo six began selling in 2007 is One entry as nor will rece are published a news ive a FREEitem 16x2 from Rod Brown Phot 0 Family Portrait 2015 ogra ue! phy also a way to connect inwith Iss es iling Fac Sm the WINNERS weeks after the wedding.

AIC VOTE FEEr WILL BE CHARGED IF SUBMITTED AFTER DETERMINED BY PUBL announced : ners to be Voting period: Feb. 4 - Mar. a couple Win who might later SECOND PRIZE 16, 2015. Three es no : voting. 50¢ per vote. ceiv rounds ofho GRAND PRIZE iff recouples $500 cl ad R SIX WEEKS. Bridal are urged to make arrangements with their think of the company for : 0 IZE PR 00 $1s photo on cover of the THIRD Enter in-person or by plu e other 50 home insurance and Issu es Fac mail g with a $2 the picture photographer receive for publication right after the wedding. form 2015 Smilin or enteto ait r onlin Portr e at crescent-news.co below 16x20 Family m life milestones. receive a FREE One entry willm Rod Brown Photography fro “It could be theTERbeginLIC VOTE MINED BY PUB vote. voting. 50¢ per WINNERS DE . Three rounds of ning of a Votirelationship 4 - Mar. 16, 2015with ng period: Feb. Announcements can be submitted online at: a young couple,” said Ed below with the form on or by mail nt-news.com Charlebois,Enterain-persTravelers www.crescent-news.com sce cre enter online at I would like to enter my child( vice presidentor for personal ren)’s photo in The Yes, Cresc ent-News Cutest Baby Conte Printed forms can be picked up at: st and/or Smiling Faces Issue. insurance.

Child(ren)’s full Name(s): ________ ________________________________ _______________ The Crescent-News Business Office date(s) of birth: ________________________ Wedsafe, backed by Aon, ________________________________ _______ Parents’ Names: ________________ ________________________________ _______________ also offers wedding insur624 W. Second St., Defi ance, OH 43512 address: ________________________ ________________________________ _____________ City:________________________ ance, which differs little ____ state:___ Phone: ________ _____________________ grandparents’ Names: ________ photo in The Email copy and digital photos to: ________________ ________________________ r my child(ren)’s and/or Smiling Faces Issue. _________ from the specialty insur________________________________ I would like to ente ________________________________ est Baby Contest ______________ Crescent-News Cut _______________ s, _____ Ye _____ Darlene Prince, Lifestyle Editor at: _____ signatur _____ e of Custodial Parent: ________________ ance that firms Childmay offer ____________________ ________________________________ ___ (ren)’s full Name(s): ___ ____________________ ____________________ ___ amount enclosed:_______________ ____________________ _____ _____ s) of birth:events cnlife@crescent-news.com _____ for other kinds date(of ________ _______________ ____________________ ts’ Names: __________ ___________________ ____________________ and celebrations. Paren ____________________ ______________ address: __________ Phone: _______________

F

S

The Crescent-News Friday, March 21, 2014

Friday, March

Son of Derrick and FINAL ROUND

21, 2014

Amy Elkins

VOTES: 3708

was 22 7 lbs., 11 oz., and Grandparents NEW ARRIVALS NAH inches long.

KAY A daughter, SAVAN Jan. are MIKE and , born D, of Athens, ROSE TROYER and CLELAN e; formerly of Hicksvill 9, 2015, to BOONE , of Athens. and TONJA KATIE TROYER weighed and MIKE and NAH SAVAN

Gavin Eugene Elkins Son of Derrick and Amy Elkins FINAL ROUND VOTES: 3708

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS Bailey Mattison Rohdy Born: September 22, 2011

Jeff & Amy Rohdy

Defiance, OH Mark & Wendy Ryan, Dave & Barb Rohdy, Donna Rohdy

grandyour child or below rite photo of Have your favoby completing the coupon and a to d child include with your child(ren)’s pho ews. it nt-N ling sce mai Cre and ey order to The check or mon Color.

Ted iN full

PHoTos PriN

son Rohd Bailey Matti mber 22, 2011

y

CHildreN riCTioNs for lemeNT) (No age resT iN THis suPP PublisHed

Born: Septe

y Jeff & Amy Rohd

Defiance, OH Rohdy, Ryan, Dave & Barb Mark & Wendy Donna Rohdy

ws

The Crescent-Ne

WEDDING N ANNOUNCEMENTS N N

N

N N

N N

Have your favorite photo of your and or grandKeith child child included by LGA — TEleting HO comp , n below the gate coupo and mailing it with of Hol Ricker, Cindy your child( photo and a agement check or mone engren)’s y order ounce tothe ann e ews.

The Cresc ent-N marriag ing hcom fort and PHoTo s PriNT Rachel ed r, Colo iN full ghte dau r. r of thei er, to Ryan Leeann Rick the son of Otto, haelCTioNs (No age Mic resTri Otto,eNof for ce CHildr Jani and Publis y iN Hed Larr THis suPPlemeNT) .

City Miller is a 2012 The bride-electgate High Hol of uate grad nded Four School. She atte Center, is County CareerHeritage in employed at the owner of is and lay, Find tography.

Rachel Otto Phoa 2005 gradHer fiance is City High er uate of Mill 2007 gradand a ol Scho The Crescent-NJam A. Rhodes uate of ewsesHe is a selfState College. er, owns employed farm the Circle P and operates near Findlay reception hall employed at and is also Dra inag e Adv anc ed lay.

Systems, Find exchange The couple will Saturday, s on wedding vow St. Michael Dec. 27, at gel Catholic the Archan lay.

Church, in Find

presented by ms by Linda Wedding Drea t’s Catering featuring Gran pm 12:00 pm – 4:00

OH l St. • Antwerp, 503 East Cana 419-258-2233 bylinda.com weddingdreams way Givea r ♥ $3,000 Déco Cake Samples ♥ Catering & r ♥ Floral & Déco ing Experts ♥ On-site Wedd Door $10.00 at the 10 Free Children under

Newark TROYER , of nts are Great-gr andpare deceased) BOB (who is D and and BARB CLELAN deceased) GLENN (who is , all of and ROSA HANNA Hicksville.

••• ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTSgradTwo area students Columbus uated from ity College, State Commun the Columbus, during comautumn semester ceremon ies mencem ent 2014. They held on Dec. 12, B of SCHWA JESSICA are ANDREW Napoleon, and Ottawa.

TRENKAMP of ••• students The following the fall were listed on list at semester dean’s Univers ity, Heidelb erg TIERNEY Tiffin. They are Sherwood, CZARTOSKI of in educaa senior majoring N of tion; JESSICA DOTSO in majoring Ottawa, a junior N FETT of English; KRISTE majoring Defiance, a junior DOMINIC in education; , a sophoFREY of Wauseon business in more majoring and inteadministration HUG grated media; DEREKmajorof Bryan, a senior AS ing in biology; NICHOL a freshJONES of Delta, criminal in man majoring MOLL of justice; JESSICA majoring senior a Hamler, business in accounting and JUSTIN tration; adminis Wauseon, MOURGUET of in a freshman majoring tration business adminis MARIN and economics; Wauseon, SCHAFFNER of in a freshman majoring athletic psychology and SCOTT of training; RYAN majoring Bryan, a senior economin accounting and TIPPIN of ics; MELISSA majoring Bryan, a senior ration in business administ TAYLOR and music; and Columbus WINDAU of re majorGrove, a sophomo g. ing in accountin

HOLGATE — Keith and Cindy Ricker, of Holga te, announce the engag ement and forthcoming marria ge of their daughter, Rache l Leeann Ricker, to Ryan Michael Otto, the son Larry and Janice Otto, of of Miller City.

The bride-elect is a graduate of Holgate 2012 High School. She attended Four County Career Cente employed at Herita r, is ge in Findlay, and is the owner Rachel Otto Photograph of y.

Her fiance is a 2005 graduate of Miller City High School and a 2007 graduate of Facebook James A. Rhodes Follow us on State College. He is a selfemployed farmer, owns and operates the Circle reception hall near Findla P and is also employed y at Adva nced Drain age Systems, Findlay.

The couple will excha wedding vows on Saturdnge Dec. 27, at St. Michaay, the Archangel Catho el lic Church, in Findlay.

VOTES DO NOT CARR Y OVER FROM ONE ROUN D TO THE NEXT. See contest rules for details.

https://www.communitynew

scontest.com/index.php?c

ontestid=240

If you need assistance, call the Crescent-Ne ws at 419-784-5441 ext 233.

T. ND TO THE NEX FROM ONE ROU CARRY OVER ils.

VOTES DO NOT See contest rules for deta .php?contestid=240 om/index contest.c

mmunitynews

https://www.co

5441 ws at 419-784-

the Crescent-Ne assistance, call If you need Entry in Cutest

ext 233.

Published in e Issu Smiling Faces Only

and Baby Contest Issue Prices: Smiling Faces . . . . . . . $18.00 ........... . . . . $28.00 * . . . . . .$18.00 . . . . . . . . . . ...........

1 Child . . .$36.00 . . . . . . . $36.00 * ........... ...........

2 Children . . . .$54.00 . . . t be siblings. . . . . . . . . . . .

Faces Issue mus 3 Children . . to for Smiling pho e sam in aring * - Children appe ENTER ON-LINE AT

name Please write child’s . on the back of photo ed, To have a photo returnselfed, include a stamp pe with envelo ssed addre written in the child’s name corner. the lower left-hand be digital photos cansend l. submitted by e-maijpeg (at a high resolution onleast 240 dpi) to babyc s.com. nt-new resce test@c ainclude all inform at right. tion on the form mailed Payment can be card or made by credit 84-5441 by phoning 419-7

OM OR USE THE FORM

CRESCENT-NEWS.C

BELOW

Entry in Cutest Prices: Published in Baby Contest and Smiling Faces Issue Smiling Faces Issue Only 1 Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18.00 2 Children. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $28.00 3 Children. . . . . . . . * . . . . . . .$54.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $36.00 * - Children appearing * in same photo for Smilin g Faces Issue must be siblings.

3

ENTER ON-LINE AT CRESCEN

T-NEWS.COM OR USE THE FORM

BELOW

Please write child’s name on the back of photo.

To have a photo returned, include a stamped, selfaddressed envelope with the child’s name written in the lower left-hand corner.

Hospital Corpsman E5 Petty Officer A Second Class Brand former Defiance digital photos can be on Radcliff (center) County resident, Radcliff recently receiv is shown accepting submitted by e-mail. send the ed his promotion a high resolution jpeg (at Corps Achievement Navy and Marine to E5 Petty Officer Second Class. He Medal for profesleast 240 dpi) to babyconis currently stationed sional achievement test@crescent-news.com. at Great Lakes Nava in superior perforl Base in North Chica mance of his duties while go, Ill. He spent 3 serving as field ½ years include all informamedic al t, statio servic den ned e techn at resi tion on the form at right.

Camp Pendleton, ician, 1st Marine Calif., e County Logist ianc ics which n Def Group Payment can be mailed also otio er , 1 includ Marin prom form ed e Expeditionary in Force y Officer A cliff recently received his ss.

Afghanistan for Opera a tour of duty or made by credit card , from Pett is Septe E5 He (if parents mber an of 2011 to October Freed tion Enduring not married, signaturenter ) Rad by phoning 419-784pital Corpsmchild areRad 2014. er Second Claes numbers of both parents Hos5441 om. Radcliff has serve cliff (ce and phone NavalPresenting the award must be included on form) Petty Offic don d in the U.S. ext. 233. were Navy Marine to E5 d at Great Lak Comm ond Class Bran

ways to submit

since November 2010.

3 Sec g Officer and deput spent andin the Navy and ently statione He is a y wn accepting t Medal for profes- curr in North Chicago, Ill. He tordlet Capt. is sho on, Robert Buckley (right direc- graduate of Fairview High Schoo 2010 Mail to: SMILIN p Pen G FACES ievemen ) and the son of Rober l and or- Base , c/o CRESCENT-NE Comm r perf ps Ach and Master Chief Mauri ioned at Cam tour Cor(include P.O. BOX½249, superioWS, t and Debra Radcliff of duty rs stat yeaDEFIAN a stampedment in ce Coffey. rural Farme CE, OHIO uded a field of ressed incl43512 envelope ing ifas also g sional achieve self-add r. you serv ch would urin le whi like End whi the if., Cal photo returned.) for Operation duties CHECK of his HEREce 1st Marine IF ENTRY n man an, ista U.S. IS FOR :___ THE nici han the CUTEST state in Afg ice tech BABY CONTEST ry in CHECK HERE IF cliff has served (on-line) servISSUE _____________ SMILING icalFACES editiona _______ AND THE 0 med Exp _____ ENTRY (printed Rad 201 .

IS ine _____ suppleme a FOR City:_______________ is dom _____ nt) Mar Free THE SMILING FACES er 2010. He s Group, 1 Photos taken embONLY ____________________ to October ISSUE 1 _____ byistic Nov Log professi e and 201 _____ onal sinc ool photogr ber _____ y s: Nav Septemaphers may be copyrig wereContest view High Sch cliff of ent charges e, from rd hted. __________________infringemForc grandparents’ Name and legal consequ entrants of Fair te assume dua all copyright encesawa ____________________ incurred from if you have any 4. enting the c- gra unautho Pres dire and Debra Rad rized use ofof s, contact For quest ions about ____________________ 201 question deputy Robert yourerphotogr d photo. _ and apher son a restricte to request permiss the Offic ____________________ tion is available by ion and acquire a ____________________ weddings, anniversari Commanding ert Buckley (right) and con- Crescent-News, ____________________ included on form) rural Farmer. release form. at 419-784parents must be or engagements, informes tacting Darlene Prince, 5441, dial Parent: __________ tor Capt. Rob ter Chief Maurice Coffey. numbers of both phone and re signature of Custoare ext. 220, or online at a- Lifestyle editor not married, signatu at The prince@cres Command Mas (if parents of child cent-news.com. __ _____ _____ _____ OHIO 43512 amount enclosed:______ 249, DEFIANCE,

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