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ong after the final toast has been made or the last couple has left the dance floor, wedding photos will help couples relive the wonderful memories of their ceremonies and receptions. Wedding photographers realize the important role photography plays in a wedding. Photos are how couples document their nuptials, and the right photographer can make all the difference.
ngagement photos vary depending on the couple. Often reserved for save-thedate cards and now commonly used to spruce up wedding websites, engagement photos can range from formal shoots in which couples are dressed to the nines to more laid back shots featuring couples in more everyday attire. When planning an engagement shoot, couples should give themselves carte blanche with regard to style, as the photoshoot need not follow many of the more accepted rules that the wedding itself will ultimately adhere to. Once couples have settled on a style for their photoshoot, there are additional ways to ensure the session is a success. • Find a photographer who
shares your sensibilities. Photographers can vary greatly in style, and an engagement photoshoot will be most successful when couples find a photographer whose style matches the theme they are looking for with their photoshoot. You likely would not hire a nature photographer to photograph a basketball game, so don’t hire someone who specializes in posed shots if you want your photos to be more lively and spontaneous. Before you hire anyone, ask for samples of each photographer’s work to be certain you’re getting someone who has experiencing shooting the type of photos you want to take. • Solicit ideas from the
photographer. Some couples already know exactly where they want their engagement photos to be shot and which poses they want to be arranged. However, many couples have little or no experience with professional photoshoots, and such couples should solicit ideas from each photographer they are considering hiring. A skilled and/or seasoned photographer should propose several ideas.
• Avoid studio shots. Many couples prefer their engagement photos be taken somewhere they have a personal connection to, such as the sight of their first date or a park they frequently visit. Studio photoshoots might provide the best lighting, but couples have no connection to such spaces, and down the road they may regret not taking the photos in someplace that’s a little more meaningful. In addition, a photoshoot outside the studio affords couples and their photographer more opportunities to experiment and improvise, which can produce a wider array of shots than a studio photoshoot is likely to deliver. • Don’t forget candid shots. Candid shots make the photoshoot more fun and loosen couples up a little bit. Many engagement photos will never be seen by anyone other than the photographer and the couple he or she is shooting, so don’t be bashful during candid shots for fear of being embarrassed down the road. Have fun with the candid shots, and your other photos are likely to come out better as a result.
• Seek referrals. There are scores of wedding photographers, and some are better than others. Word of mouth from other couples can help. Referrals can offer insight into a photographer's personality and his or her abilities to work with the wedding party and guests throughout the day. • Communication is key. An important component of wedding photography actually starts well before the wedding day. The way a photographer communicates with you about your wishes and desired shots is very important, as this is when to discuss specific shots you want taken during the ceremony, such as whether the bride wants to be seen and pose with the groom prior to tying the knot. In addition, this is a great time for the photographer to get familiar with each venue's rules regarding vendors. • Choose a photographer who
is confident and firm. A good photographer will be able to direct photo subjects and get everyone to participate and in line. Brides and grooms likely won't want to handle such tasks on their own, so a confident and firm yet cordial photographer can be an invaluable asset. • Prepare a shoot list. Meet with the photographer before the wedding and provide a list of all the shots you absolutely need to get. This way the photographer
can plan for these as well as capture the candid moments throughout the day. • Discuss a backup plan with
the photographer. Mishaps happen, even on the most carefully planned wedding day. Discuss what the photographer does to safeguard your digital photo files. Are they backed-up to a cloud or a secured offsite server? Does the photographer bring along a second camera in case the primary one has a malfunction? What happens if he or she is ill on the day of the wedding? How is a replacement chosen? Understanding how the photographer adapts to unforseen situations can make you feel more confident in choosing one photographer instead of another. The camera gear should also have adequate memory to store all of the photos, and a few backup batteries can't hurt, either. • Consider hiring a photographer's assistant or second shooter. The photographer is less likely to miss a shot or fail to capture various perspectives of the wedding if he or she works with a partner. While one photographer is doing close-up portraits, the other may be capturing candid moments from onlookers from another angle. • Know what each package in-
cludes. The photographer should clearly spell out which items and services are included as part of the contract. There should be no surprises when it's time to pay the balance of the photographer's fees, so go over each itemized detail to be sure the package in your contract is the one you really want. • Get to know the photographer
as a person. It can be difficult to loosen up in front of the lens, particularly if you do not have a good rapport with the photographer.
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any brides-to-be visit bridal shops with specific goals in mind regarding the style of their wedding gowns. Some women come equipped with magazine tear-outs or pull up ideas on their mobile phones. Others may have an entire scrapbook filled with various ideas they’ve been compiling for years. Much consideration is given to wedding gowns. The cost and silhouette of the dress may garner the bulk of that consideration, but brides might want to spend more
time considering comfort. Depending on the time of day their weddings take place, brides can spend 12 hours or more in their wedding gowns on their wedding day. However, when shopping for their gowns, brides may prioritize beauty over comfort, even though it’s entirely possible to find a gown that’s both stunning and comfortable. When staff and friends or family who have come along to offer advice start to blush over wedding gowns, brides-to-be may feel pressured to downplay any discomfort
they feel. To make sure brides look flawless and elegant but are still comfortable in their wedding gowns, consider the following tips. • Know what to highlight and what to cover up. No two body types are the same, and many women feel certain parts of their bodies are their best assets while they want to downplay others. Try on gowns that play up your best features. If you have shapely legs, consider a dramatic gown with a slit to show them off. Certain gowns can enhance the decollete or show off an hourglass shape. Remember, many gowns can be modified so that you feel secure and confident. Sleeves can be added or fabric placed to cover up any perceived flaws. Confidence and pride are important parts of the comfort factor. • Get sized correctly. Bridal gown sizes do not coincide with street sizes. Depending on the manufacturer, brides may have to select gowns that are several sizes larger than they would normally wear. This should not be a cause for alarm. Brides should go by
their measurements. Attempting to squeeze into a dress that is too small will only lead to discomfort on the wedding day. • Purchase the right undergarments. Improperly fitting bras, shapewear and other undergarments can lead to discomfort as well. Some seamstresses can sew in supportive cups to remove the need for separate bras. Brides can explore various options to reduce the visibility of certain accoutrements. • Move around in the gown. Brides should not just stand in front of the mirror and smile when trying on gowns. Put them through their paces. Try sitting, bending and even a little dancing. Make sure the dress is comfortable to move around in. • Try different options. The gown brides have in mind may not be the one they ultimately go home with. Explore different styles and materials. Choose cooler, breezier fabrics and lightweight gowns, like crepe, georgette or organza, for summer weddings. Heavier fabrics, such as brocade, may be more comfortable in the winter.
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fter the vows have been exchanged and couples have donned their wedding rings, newly married couples and their guests often enjoy some well-deserved fun at the wedding reception. Though wedding receptions are all about fun, couples may find it difficult to plan the reception seating arrangements. Such a task requires a good deal of time, sorting through guest responses and an intimate knowledge of which personalities will mesh and which will not. But some patience, diplomacy and even a little help can make the process of planning seating arrangements much easier. • Group related people together.
This relation does not have to be familial. For example, seat work friends together rather than scattering them at various tables. It’s easier for wedding guests to mingle when they have some common connection. • Younger guests are more flexible. Recognize that younger guests are less likely to complain about where they are seated than older guests, so you have more wiggle room when arranging their tables. They can be placed at tables closer to the dance floor, near the entertainment or by the kitchen door, while older guests might want to be closer to the bride and groom and further away from distractions. • Seat immediate family members
nearby. Seat immediate family members closest to the bride and groom. Guests who fall under the acquaintance category as opposed to the family category can be seated further away. • Place friends or party animals near the entertainment. Guests who are up for a good party may appreciate being seated close to the dance floor or within arm’s length of the refreshments. • Address mobility concerns. If a guest is elderly or needs to be close to exits or the restroom, make those accommodations.
• Embrace the kids’ table. Seat young guests together if there are a number of them. Kids will have more fun sitting with one another than with adults or their parents. And seating kids together makes it easier for servers if children will be ordering from a special menu. • Expect the unexpected. Some seating arrangements may not work out. Be sure the reception site is flexible and can easily put another place setting together if an unexpected guest arrives or if someone needs to be moved to another table.
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lanning a perfect wedding is no small undertaking. From scheduling venues and hiring vendors to tasting menus, lots of decisions must be made when planning a wedding. But when the pieces fall into place, the entire day can be magical. One of the final components of weddings are the favors guests will take home with them as mementos of the festivities. Though favors don't require immediate attention, that does not mean couples should wait until the last minute to made decisions regarding their wedding favors. Brides- and grooms-to-be should not underestimate the importance of handing out wedding favors, a tradition with a rich history. A wedding favor is considered a symbol of good will to guests, and there are many different wedding favors on the market. Finding the right one can take a little work. It is usually a good idea to find something that suits the theme of the wedding and is both long-lasting and practical. Try to avoid anything that is too kitschy. A couple's budget should be considered when choosing wedding favors. A couple may want to give their guests lavish gifts but should only do so if their budget allows. It may be challenging for couples to find favors that fit the theme of their wedding, as well as their own personalities and budgets. But it can be done. The following are some favor-finding guidelines.
Couples who opt for universally appealing favors can lean toward some popular options, such as silver cake servers, candlestick holders, decorative photo frames, or engraved keepsake boxes. Aim for favors that have utility. Otherwise, favors may end up collecting dust on someone's shelf.
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Food favors mean guests can enjoy their gifts and not have to worry about finding space inside their homes to display trinkets. Food favors can be lavishly decorated cookies, fine chocolates, petit fours, small bottles of champagne or cupcakes decorated like the wedding cake. Favors are often integral to wedding celebrations. Selecting a favor that will be appreciated and fit with the wedding is often a fun and stress-free part of planning a wedding.
The more creative couples are, the more receptive their guests will likely be. For example, for an autumn-theme wedding, fill mason jars with the ingredients for a spiced cake and give the recipe directions on a tag. For a summer wedding, gift guests with a sun and surf survival bag, full of sunblock, a beach towel and sunglasses.
Some weddings follow a particular theme from start to finish, and wedding favors should stick with that theme. Couples who will showcase their love of travel on their wedding days may want to give guests keychains or purse holders that feature popular landmarks around the world. Those who are admitted beach bums may want to present a small fishbowl with sand and a goldfish inside, reminiscent of days at the seashore.
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It’s difficult to pinpoint who originated the practice of toasting. Several ancient societies would raise a glass in honor of deities or special guests. Ancient Greeks offered libations to the gods as a part of ritualistic practices and also as a point to drink to each other’s good health. Ancient Romans at one point instituted a practice that all people must drink to Emperor Augustus at each meal. The term “toast” has an interesting history. Dating back to the 16th century, “toast” refers to a piece of toasted bread. A piece of toast was commonly added to wine during this time because wine was quite inferior in quality then compared to modern vintages. Stale bread was placed into the jug to soak up acidity and improve the flavor. The wine also improved the palatability of the old or spiced bread. According to National Geographic magazine, by the 18th century, the term “toast” had been transferred from the floating piece of bread to the person honored by the toast. Eventually, “toast” represented the drink raised or the words offered with the gesture.
Toasts can be off-the-cuff remarks shared in the moment, but for many special events, they should be prepared well in advance. Nowadays, some toastgivers devote extra time to preparing toasts, particularly because they know these sentiments can live on indefinitely on social media. Giving a toast can induce anxiety, but some nerves can be relieved simply by doing one’s homework and not procrastinating.
• Keep ‘you’ out of it. This toast is not about you. It’s about the person you are honoring. Therefore, do not put any self-congratulatory messages in the toast. Make it all about the person — even beginning the toast with that person’s name. • Hook people in. Open the toast with a good joke or anecdote that will help introduce the person of honor. For example, Jake is a great guy because he’s the type of person who will offer to meet you at your dorm room at 2 a.m. with pizza and beer to get you through a study session. Too bad he has a horrible sense of di-
rection and repeatedly shows up at the wrong door. • Tell a story. Reference the person in the toast, other audience members, and even yourself if you can be painted in a self-deprecating light. • Keep it short. This is a toast, not a monologue. Be brief so that the audience doesn’t lose interest. Set a five-minute limit. • Wrap it up. Conclude the toast by tying the story back to the introduction and making sure to include the audience once more. This will help you get the biggest laughs and applause.
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Women who prefer something a little more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.
A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses. With a fitted bodice and full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically poofed-up by crinoline and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figures.
A bit more fitted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.
A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.
Another silhouette very forgiving or appropriate for many body types is the A-line gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase "A." When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic and sensible and a favorite among brides.
Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success. Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.
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aking the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help. Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity. Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jumpstart other planning. While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise. Plus, they’re portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding. Later, when photographers,
florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board. To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos, or articles that resonate with you. As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks. Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials. Take inspiration from the photos displayed of The Ultimate Bridal Event hosted by A Bride’s Choice on January 7. Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources. Anything you come across in your daily life — such as window-shopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit — may inspire some creativity.
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art of what makes weddings such enjoyable events is the many traditions that are built into the day. Tradition lends familiarity to the proceedings and serves as unwritten cues for guests. Certain traditions invite guest participation, and these can make great memories for both couples and their guests. Just because something is a tradition, however, doesn’t mean couples can’t put their own unique spin on things. The bouquet toss is one tradition that may benefit from a little personalization. In a 2015 Jezebel poll of about 4,500 readers, 19 percent supported having a bouquet toss, but 81 percent were against it, suggesting that this tradition is ready for some updating.
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• Girls-only dance: Invite all of the women out on the floor — not just the single ones — and play a female-centric empowerment song or one that mentions ladies having a good time. This puts the emphasis on having fun rather than finding a spouse. • Attach a prize to the toss. To encourage people to participate, explain that the bouquet- and garter-toss winners get prizes — and that the prize has nothing to with finding a partner. • Wedding anniversary countdown: Invite all of the married cou-
ples to the center of the dance floor. The DJ or band can play a beautiful love song and count up the years as the song plays. As each year is mentioned, couples leave the dance floor after their most recent anniversary has passed. The last couple on the dance floor marks the couple who has been married the longest. That couple gets to take home the bouquet. • Have a bridal pinata. All guests can take a turn at hitting a bouquetshaped pinata. It’s fun and entertaining and doesn’t discriminate based on age or marital status.
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rooms-to-be face many decisions regarding their pending nuptials, but few may prove as delicate as choosing the groomsmen for the big day. Choosing groomsmen should not be taken lightly. Grooms-to-be who are facing some difficult choices with regard to that decision can follow a few pointers to ensure they make the right call. • Pick a number. Before you serve as groomsmen. Friends are even consider who you want your unlikely be offended if family groomsmen to be, speak to your fi- members get the nod ahead of them, ancee about how many bridesmaids so discuss numbers with your fishe hopes to have. The number of ancee before you begin trimming groomsmen and bridesmaids typi- your list of candidates. • Choose the best man for the cally matches, so your fiancee’s intentions may make your decision a job. Many grooms pick a brother to lot easier. For example, if you have serve as their best man, and while two brothers and several friends that’s a nice sentiment, it’s imporyou’re considering, but your fiancee tant that grooms recognize that only intends to have a maid of being a best man carries with it honor and one bridesmaid, then you some responsibility. A best man can just ask both of your brothers to will organize the bachelor party,
give a toast at the wedding and handle any post-wedding duties, such as returning the tuxes or arranging for the newlyweds’ transportation to the airport. If your brother is already incredibly busy or if you doubt he is up to the task of being a best man, then you might be better off asking him to be a groomsman and finding another best man who’s more capable of juggling the numerous responsibilities that come with being best man. • Don’t forget your fiancee’s family. While you should not feel pressured to pick anyone in particular as your best man, if your fiancee has any brothers, ask her if she had her heart set on including any of them in the bridal party. Some brides want their brothers to be groomsmen or grooms may want a sister to be in the bridal party, so discuss this with your fiancee before asking anyone to line up beside you. • Confirm their availability. When asking friends or family members to be groomsmen, it’s best to ensure they can actually make it to the ceremony. This is a concern for grooms who are planning a des-
tination wedding or those getting married in their fiancee’s hometown and not their own, as some guests, including potential groomsmen, may not be able to afford to attend an overseas or faraway ceremony. When asking, explain the situation to them, and let them know you fully understand if they cannot commit to being a groomsmen due to travel or financial concerns. Confirm their availability as soon as possible, as you don’t want to be down one groomsman come your big day. For those who you want to be a groomsmen but are unable to make it, it can be a nice gesture to buy them a groomsmen gift as a token of your appreciation for their friendship.
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part from their initial nerves during their wedding ceremonies, many couples feel comfortable having all eyes on them for the majority of their wedding days. However, some couples get a bit of stagefright when dancing as husband and wife for the first time. First dances and parent-child dances are popular wedding reception rituals. The couple’s dance serves as their first act as a married pair, often occurring at the onset of the wedding reception. Father-daughter and mother-son dances may take place at different points in the evening. Some people relish the idea of having the spotlight on them, while others are nervous about dancing in front of a crowd. While couples need not look like contestants on “Dancing With the Stars” to pull off a successful first dance, taking dance lessons prior to the wedding can teach men and women some key moves and help calm their nerves. Couples may want to begin dance lessons a few months before their wedding day to get acclimated to the experience. The more lessons couples take, the more comfortable they will likely be when it comes time to cut a rug. Private dance lessons may be more effective than group lessons, as they enable one-on-one interaction with instructors, who point out any missteps immediately and correct form on the spot. Instructors also may suggest which routines couples should embrace and which they may want to avoid. Preparation can stem nervousness and help couples feel more confident on the dance floor, even if their dances last only a few minutes. The goal of dance lessons is for couples to become better dancers, but improved skills on the dance floor is not the only thing couples can take from dance lessons.
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• Exercise: Dancing is an excellent form of exercise that can help couples build up their endurance. In addition, the cardiovascular benefits of dancing can help couples shed a few pounds prior to their wedding days. • Stress relief: Planning a wedding is not always easy. Having a night of the week devoted
to some fun couple time can help relieve some of the stress couples may feel when planning a wedding. • Enjoyable memories: Taking dance lessons as a couple is something couples may look back on fondly long after they have tied the knot and cut their first rug as husband and wife.
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hoosing a DJ for your wedding reception is one of the most important decisions that you can make in planning your wedding. A good DJ is as important to a party as the decoration of the hall or the dinner menu. Everything else can be perfect, but if the music is not great, the party will fizzle. There are thousands of DJs all over the country, but to narrow the choices down in your area, you can start by trusting the word on the street.
How do you make sure you get an experienced and professional DJ? Ask the people who know. Ask the coordinator or sales staff at the reception hall where your event is to be held. Ask your florist, your photographer. They have seen them all and know who is consistently good and who is sometimes shaky. Ask your friends and coworkers about a wedding or event that they might have recently attended. And if you are at a wedding or party where the DJ is impressive, find out who they
are and book them yourself. Separating the wedding professionals from the backyard DJs can help you avoid becoming a wedding horror story. Nobody wants an irresponsible music person who shows up late or not at all, doesn't interact with the audience, plays inappropriate songs or uses faulty equipment without backups. Once you've got the selection narrowed down to a few candidates it’s important to keep your focus on the type of entertainment you want rather than try to get the DJs into a price war. If a DJ keeps dropping his price to get your business, he may not be very good. Most professional companies rely on referral business and maintain a certain pricing standard. Not that bargaining is out of the question, but it’s often worth an extra hundred bucks to make sure you’re getting a quality enter-
tainer. Another way to narrow the choice down to one is by developing a rapport over the phone and paying attention to their attitude and way with words. Their personality tends to spill over into their DJ style. A professional DJ will make you feel as though he/she is as enthusiastic about the success of your party as you are. So, most importantly, trust your instincts. If you have that feeling in your gut someone is wrong for you ... move on. The biggest error committed by most brides and grooms’ looking for a DJ is the phone call price comparison. A guaranteed recipe for disaster is calling every DJ in the area and booking solely on the lowest quote. Do your research on the company. Ask for references and talk price after all your other goals have been met.
A professional DJ adds to, not detracts from the special event. A professional DJ uses quality, reliable equipment. He arrives early and is set up and ready to play before your guests arrive. He dresses appropriately. Professional DJs provide written contracts and discuss important details of your event in advance. Just because a DJ service advertises a lot does not mean they are professional. “I heard about them on the radio” and “They were the cheapest” are two reasons a lot of people use when they hire a DJ. It is the most im-
portant day of your life. Make those decisions wisely. Remember that a professional DJ relies on referrals, and their main goal will be helping you and your guests celebrate your special day. Their intention should be to make the occasion as memorable as possible. The Disc Jockey can make or break your wedding reception! You have a set amount of time from "proposal" to "I Do" to plan exactly how you want things done. You have forever to regret the cutrate DJ that was $100 less and ruined your reception!
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hile some couples may get cold feet on their wedding days, there’s no reason for anyone, including brides who don high heels in the name of fashion, to endure foot pain. Foot pain is a common complaint for those unaccustomed to wearing stilettos or formal footwear. Wedding attire is not worn every day, so it’s no surprise that wedding footwear may contribute to some aches and pains. Podiatrists warn that heels between one and two inches in height are the best to maintain foot health. But that heal size does not work for all brides. Brides-to-be, bridesmaids and others can employ these tips to keep their feet pain-free throughout the ceremony and reception. • Give your feet a break. Swap out a higher heel with a lower one every couple of hours. Do not wait until you start feeling pain to switch to a lower heel or more comfortable shoe. • Choose shoes that fit and leave a little room. Standing and dancing can cause feet to swell, sometimes as much as one half-size larger. Make sure the shoes you plan to wear to the wedding afford potentially swollen feet a little breathing room. • Slip in a pair of insoles. Stores carry a variety of insoles that can add cushioning, distribute weight and prevent rubbing or chafing of the feet. • Break in the shoes. It’s not a good idea to wear a brand new pair of shoes when you know you’ll be on your feet most of the day. Instead, purchase wedding shoes several weeks in advance of the event. Wear them around the house with a pair of socks to stretch out straps and enable them to mold to your foot shape. Wearing them in advance also helps identify spots that rub or are likely to cause blisters. • Consider wearing stockings. It’s now less of a fash-
ion faux pas to attend formal events with bare legs then it once was, but it may be in your best interest to wear a pair of stockings to a wedding. The thin material will help alleviate rubbing and hot spots from skin-on-shoe direct contact. • Stretch and soak feet prior and afterward. Wearing heels can put strain on your calves, creating extra pain. Stretch your feet and legs whenever possible. And after a long night, make sure a pedicure is one of the first spa experiences you enjoy on your honeymoon.
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eing asked to join a bridal party is both an honor and a responsibility. When asked to take on such significant and meaningful roles, men and women may recognize the honor but be unsure of what their responsibilities are as couples move forward with their wedding plans. Bridal party roles can vary depending on certain circumstances, but many couples still want their bridesmaids and groomsmen to perform many of the more traditional tasks associated with their roles. The following are some of the tasks bridesmaids and groomsmen can expect to perform in the months leading up to the wedding and during the wedding itself.
The maid of honor serves as the bride-to-be’s right-hand woman as she plans her wedding and gets ready on her big day. Maids of honor typically go gown shopping with the bride and may even choose or offer suggestions about the color and style of the bridesmaids’ dresses. Once a dress style and color has been chosen, the maid of honor will make sure everyone is fitted on time. A maid of honor will also plan the bridal shower, sending invitations and arranging for lodging for out-of-town guests if necessary. Many brides want the details of their bridal showers to be a surprise, and maids of honor
should honor those sentiments when possible. A maid of honor also plans the bachelorette party, though many brides do not mind being involved in the planning of such parties. The maid of honor may be asked to help address save-the-date cards and envelopes as well. Come the day of the wedding, the maid of honor will ensure the bride’s day is as stress-free as possible, helping to address any last-minute issues that may arise. Maids of honor may be asked to serve as the legal witness to the wedding and sign the wedding license before the reception. At the reception, the maid of honor will toast the bride.
The best man is the maid of honor’s counterpart, helping to plan the bachelor party and toasting the groom at the reception. The best man also tends to hold the rings during the wedding ceremony, and during the day of the wedding, he will coordinate the groomsmen to make sure everyone is ready to go on time. The best man may arrange transportation for the groom and groomsmen on the day of the wedding and may also return the groom and groomsmen’s attire the following day if the newlyweds are departing on their honeymoons. The bridesmaids and groomsmen serve similar functions, acting as sources of support as couples plan their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen help to plan the bachelorette and bachelor parties and may also be asked their opinions as couples make decisions regarding their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen must be prepared to take pictures once couples have officially tied the knot. They also must help the brides and grooms with any issues that may arise in the hours before couples become husband and wife. Flower girls and ring bearers are often young relatives of the couple, whether they are a young brother or sister or a niece or nephew. The responsibilities of the flower girl and ring bearer are typically limited to the ceremony, during which they will walk down the aisle, either together or individually, before the father of the bride escorts his daughter to the altar or stage. The father of the bride walks his daughter down the aisle during the ceremony, and, along with his wife, may pay for the wedding, though many couples now finance their own nuptials. The father of the bride will dance with his daughter during the reception, and some fathers may even share a special toast for the newlyweds during the reception, though such a toast is not traditionally required.
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wedding cake is the piece de resistance of the wedding ceremony. Guests anxiously await the unveiling of the cake near the end of the festivities. Modern cakes are showpieces grander in scale than in years past. As bakers and confectioners hone their skills with fondant, buttercream and gum paste even further, the results are often impressive, awe-inspiring cake designs. While the look of a wedding cake is certainly important, cakes should not only look good, but taste good as well. Vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream frosting was once the gold standard. But today's couples are being more adventurous with their wedding cakes and winning rave reviews from guests along the way.
The vast scope of wedding cake flavor choices available to brides and grooms is astonishing. Options may range from the traditional to something adventurous and daring. Keeping in mind that couples will need to please the masses, finding a compromise between plain vanilla and a mocha-chile-coconut surprise is essential. Otherwise, they risk an unpopular flavor and a lot of wasted, expensive cake. Some couples shy away from more adventurous cakes because they fear something chocolately or not white in color will not be well suited to a wedding reception. Such couples should keep in mind that any flavor of cake can be hidden beneath layers of pearly white fondant or royal icing. Therefore, the sky is the limit with regard to flavor combinations.
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C Lemon cake with vanilla buttercream Lemons are tart, juicy and refreshing, helping to cleanse the palate after a rich meal. Lemon cake, with its summery feel, is tailor-made for summer weddings. The flavor is popular enough to appeal to many, but just a little different to add an unexpected zip of flavor. White cake with chocolate mousse Couples who want a bit of chocolate but do not want to be overwhelmed can select a white cake that is filled with light and rich chocolate mousse. It's the perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate for guests who enjoy both. Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache and mocha filling True chocoholics will be hardpressed to resist such a decadent flavor profile. Chocolate can be sweet and satisfying and a welcome change from the vanilla cakes commonly served. For tradi-
tionalists, the cake can be covered with a white chocolate ganache. Or couples can ask that the cake be adorned with white sugar roses for an eye-appealing contrast. Chocolate cakes covered with autumn hued flowers go over well at fall weddings. Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting Red velvet cake was once a regionally specific staple, but now has grown steadily in popularity across the country. Red velvet has quickly become the new classic, as its vibrant red coloring offers a shock of something different, while the flavor is mild for those who are not comfortable taking risks. The richness and creaminess of cream cheese is irresistible. Variety tiers Those who cannot settle on just one flavor can have different flavors on each tier of their cakes. This gives guests some flavorful variety and enables them to pick their favorite flavor combination.
Brides- and grooms-to-be who have specific flavors in mind can ask their bakers to include two cupcakes with the wedding cake. Then the couple can enjoy their own mini cakes while the rest of the guests enjoy a more classic cake. In addition, an assortment of cupcakes in lieu of one cake can give guests the opportunity to sample several different flavors. Cakes are a part of many special events, but few cakes are fawned over as much as wedding cakes. Couples can spice things up by choosing a nontraditional flavor combination.
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pecial occasions often call for special venues. Catering halls are capable of hosting big and small parties, making them worthy of consideration for hosts looking to impress. Many party hosts prefer to leave much of the hosting work to the professionals, feeling it reduces the stress associated with hosting while ensuring hosts they will have the time to mingle with guests and enjoy the festivities. Working with a reputable and reliable caterer is the first step toward ensuring a party will be successful and enjoyable. The following tips can help anyone develop a good relationship with a caterer en route to hosting a fun and memorable wedding reception. • Think about the size of the venue. Catering halls can cater to parties of various sizes. When choosing a venue for the reception, hosts should keep the comfort of their guests in mind. Guests should be able to move around and not feel
as though they are sitting on top of one another at the tables. Halls can be too big as well. Rooms that are too large for the guest list can feel uncomfortable and make guests feel isolated. • Develop a budget. Budget
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should factor into hosts’ decisions regarding a catering hall. Speak with the catering manager prior to booking and be sure that there is a package that will fit into your budget. When examining catering packages, hosts can discuss if certain substitutions or amendments can be made to packages to meet their needs and the needs of their guests. • Consider the banquet hall location. Proximity to public transportation, highways and hotels is an important consideration. Guests should be able to get to and from the venue with ease. • Explore the amenities. Ameni-
ties, such as outdoor gardens or gazebos for photo opportunities, can add to the experience of throwing a party at a catering hall. Hosts should compare amenities at the catering halls they’re considering, and factor in the benefits of having those amenities versus the disadvantages of choosing a venue with no such offerings. • Don’t forget the food. Food should not be overlooked when choosing a catering hall. Be sure to taste test the menu to determine if the food is up to par. Catering halls can be beautiful, but the food should meet hosts’ expectations as well.
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eddings are momentous events for the couple tying the knot as well as all of the friends and family invited to share in the big day. Before couples can tie the knot and cut a rug at their receptions, everyone, couple and guests included, must arrive at the location (or locations if the ceremony site differs from the reception area). Though arranging wedding day transportation can be difficult, there are ways to make the process go more smoothly for guests and bridal party members.
Before a transportation plan can be made, couples must first map out their needs. Everything should be built around the ceremony. Once the ceremony time has been set, the rest of the day can be arranged around that time. Determine how much time is needed to travel from the ceremony to the reception area. Allocate enough time before the cocktail hour to allow for traffic, photos and
any other needs that may take up time. Couples do not want anyone, included themselves, to feel rushed. Once the timing has been orchestrated, couples can figure out exactly which types of transportation will be required.
portation between five and seven months in advance of the wedding. It could be preferable to book it even further in advance if a couple is getting married around a holiday or during prom season when limousines and party buses are in high demand. Remember, unless the bride-to-be plans to be seen by her groom, couples will need separate transportation to the ceremony site. Factor multiple vehicles into the wedding transportation budget.
Brides and grooms have many transportation options at their disposal. If a limousine doesn’t add the spark of creativity they desire, they can opt for a VW bus or a retro roadster. Outdoor enthusiasts might want to ride off on horseback, while easy riders might prefer to rev up the engine on a Harley-Davidson. Happy couples must make their Couples should never feel penned own transportation their top prior- in by tradition, especially when ity. Arrange for the couples’ trans- something else makes them feel re-
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markable and the budget allows for it.
Couples generally opt to arrive to the wedding and reception in style, but take their own vehicles or cabs home afterward. This requires some advanced planning. Enlist the help of friends to park the return-trip car in a convenient location. Check with the catering hall to see if a vehicle can be left in their lot overnight. Otherwise, arrange to grab a ride home with friends or family.
Have the names and phone numbers of taxi or ridesharing services available for those who may not be able to drive after the party. Elderly or disabled guests might appreciate prearranged transportation as well. Although couples can arrange for transportation as a courtesy to others, they don’t need to make arrangements for everyone.
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any couples think that preparing for a honeymoon means bringing with them as many things as they can possibly carry. While this may be a good way to fend off forgetfulness, it also could mean being bogged down with unwieldy bags that cost more money to ship. But couples who pack too little may end up paying premium prices for necessities upon arrival at their destinations. The key is to pack the right blend of items by having a honeymoon go-to list at the ready. Roughly 50 to 75 percent of the more than two million couples tying the knot in North America every year embark on honey-
moons shortly after walking down the aisle. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, the honeymoon accounts for 14 percent of a couple's wedding budget. Couples tend to spend an average of $4,500 on their honeymoons, which typically last a week or more. Whether you're sailing off on a cruise or flying to a popular overseas destination, there are a number of things you will need to bring along for the trip, and having a list that you can check off will make packing that much easier. There are a number of other tasks competing for your attention close to the wedding, so think about your list early on.
• Camera and accessories: Bring the camera for capturing all of your memories. But don't forget to bring a charger and extra batteries. Pack an extra memory card unless you will be downloading the photos to a laptop or uploading them to a storage system. If you are traveling internationally, you will need an electrical converter to plug in any electronics. • Cash: You will need some cash even if you're visiting an all-inclusive resort. In addition, take one or two major credit cards if you do not enjoy carrying too much cash. Only bring what you need because you don't want to face the hassle of canceling cards or replacing the contents of your wallet should something go missing. • Clothing: Try to pack clothing that can be mixed and matched for a number of different looks. Solidcolored pants, shorts or skirts paired with different tops is an easy way to achieve new looks. Remember to bring at least one dressier option in clothing for a night out at a special dinner. Bring along at least two swimsuits to have one available while the other is drying. • Comfort products: Items like insect repellent, sunburn soothing cream, aspirin, motion-sickness medication, and more may be very expensive at your destination, so bring these items from home. • Eyeglasses/contacts: Bring your spare pair of contact lenses or eyeglasses in case your primary pair is lost or damaged.
• Feminine hygiene products: Feminine hygiene products may be unavailable where you are traveling, so don't forget to bring some along. • Fold-up travel bag: This extra bag can be used to tote items to and from the beach or while sightseeing. It also can be used to carry any souvenirs that may take up too much space in your luggage. • Hair products: The hotel may provide certain toiletries, but bring along travel-sized hair products to ensure your hair looks good during your trip. • Phone: Check with your mobile carrier to find out about roaming charges or if you will incur extra chargings making calls or accessing data at your destination. If so, you may be able to purchase prepaid phone cards or negotiate a temporary international rate. • Sunscreen: Pack some sunscreen so you don't return home from your honeymoon with a bad sunburn. • Toiletries: Cotton swabs, razors, toothbrushes, shaving cream, and the like are items to bring from home, as they are likely to cost a lot more at your destination than they do at home. • Work-out clothing: If you plan on visiting the resort's fitness center, pack a pair of athletic shoes and shorts or sweatpants. • Zipper-top bags: Bring along various sizes of storage bags to store wet swimsuits or for protecting and sorting different items.
There will be certain memories that will stand out more than others on your special day...
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Our wish is to make your wedding cake to your specifications. Whatever you want, chocolate or lemon, tiered or layered - we’re here to make it happen. Call for an appointment today and let’s bake the perfect confection.
• Moist, Delicious Cakes • Samples Upon Request • Soft, Creamy Icing • Free Set-up and Delivery in the Marquette Area
Variety Cakes and Cupcakes also available Marquette • 228-6777