Bridalplanner 0127 nth

Bridal Planner Brida THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD | 2014

www.times-herald.com/bridal

Wedding Dress Silhouettes Cake Flavor Combinations Wedding Planner Checklist Spice of Life Wedding Cuisine

Unique Reception Touches

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2014 bridal Plan ner

2014

Bridal Planner is an advertising product of

THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD

Content provided by Metro Creative Graphics

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR Colleen D. Mitchell ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Wendy Danford Mandy Inman Candy Johnson Norma Kelley LAYOUT AND DESIGN BY: Debby Dye, Graphics Manager Maggie Bowers, Graphic Designer Sandy Hiser, Graphic Designer Sonya Studt, Graphic Designer

Here We Go!

Planning Made easy Congratulations! You and the person of your dreams are embarking on a new life together, and we couldn’t be happier for you. It’s time to create a day you and your loved ones will never forget.

Sound impossible? Hardly! Just let us show you how.

Changing attitudes and a changing economy have changed the way couples get married. Today’s couples are being more mindful of their budgets – but they’re not letting that get in the way of throwing an awesome party!

Our 2014 Bridal Planner will guide you through all the moments of the big day.

Our experts’ tips will show you how to make the most of your time, energy and budget, while keeping your wedding’s style and fun factor sky high.

Dive in. Follow our tips. Plan a wedding that your guests won’t soon forget.

It’s never been easier to do.

The Newnan Times-Herald, Inc. 16 Jefferson Street, newnan, Ga 30263

(mailing) P. O. box 1052, newnan, Ga 30264 770-253-1576

Also online at:

www.times-herald.com/bridal

In this issue 3 10 14 15 16 18 18 19

Venue Food & drinks Cakes Flowers Fashion & Beauty invitations Limousines organization

20 20 21 21 22 23 24

Photography Wedding Themes Wedding Web sites Finances engagement Form Wedding Form Gifts

Venue

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Unique

Reception Touches

METRO GRAPHICS

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ver the course of their lifetimes, many people will be wedding guests on several occasions. During the height of wedding season, weddings can run into one another, as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies. Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas.

Who hasn't attended a wedding that seems formulaic?

The couple enters, they do their spotlight dance, there's food, a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting. Guests may actually be able to predict what's coming next. While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition, that doesn't mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out.

Here are several ideas you can introduce into your wedding to add something special to the reception.

Continued on page 4

Historic

Use the bouquets of the bridal party as the centerpieces of some of the reception tables as one way to bring something different to your wedding.

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2014 bridal Plan ner

Venue Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple. Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite, mingle with your guests from start to finish. So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests, the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat.

Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you don't have to make that big entrance from behind closed doors. Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor.

Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow, sappy tune. What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun. If you haven't mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again, feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other.

Encourage couples to dance together Towers of of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo.

It's often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the

dance floor midway through the first dance. However, that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids. Instead, don't have assigned partners. Rather, encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose.

Swap the garter/bouquet toss for something more meaningful If you're part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite, there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration — ones that don't single out the singletons who haven't yet found their special someones. Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration.

Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding. Spending more money doesn't necessarily mean guests will have a better time. If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary, find

2 0 1 3 b r i d a l Pl an n er

Venue

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one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party. It could be a flambé presentation, a chocolate or candy bar, a carving station with your all-time favorite food (even if that's PB&J), or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth.

Hire a live performer Although it's hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist, unless you're cousins with Celine Dion, chances are she won't be available to sing "My Heart Will Go On" at your reception. However, a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide. Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer, like a bagpiper, as an added measure of entertainment for guests.

Let them eat ... cookies?

Some people just don't like cake Therefore, why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection? Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo. A pyramid of cream puffs, stacks of brownies, a cookie castle, or cereal-cake concoctions can work.

Some bakeries will decorate a "dummy" styrofoam cake, and then you can serve apple pie a la mode, if you desire.

Stage a costume switch Let's face it, dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina.

As the bride, have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception. It will also add some variety to your wedding photos. BP

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2014 bridal Plan ner

Venue

Careful Timing Makes Weddings Go Off Without a Hitch METRO GRAPHICS

A

s any holiday host can attest, timing is crucial to getting a meal out hot and ensuring each course is ready for the table. Timing is equally important when planning a wedding. Various elements must come together in the right order to create a seamless day for couples and guests alike.

In addition to organizing floral deliveries, ensuring the wedding party arrives on time,

and getting hair and makeup done promptly, couples who will be having their ceremony in a different location from the reception will need to spend more time factoring timing into their wedding day equations.

Factors like traveling to and from the site, as well as hunger pangs and potential weatherrelated complications, will need to be considered.

Many couples choose to have their ceremonies and receptions at the same site, a decision that makes scheduling much

Many couples choose to have their ceremonies and receptions at the same site, a decision that makes scheduling much easier.

easier. Once the ceremony is over, guests simply go inside or to another area of the grounds to begin the reception. Some traditionalists, though, prefer to have their ceremony in a place of worship and then travel to a separate reception location afterward. Both scenarios are

acceptable, but the latter option requires a little more planning.

Couples will need to know when the church or temple is available for the ceremony and when the reception hall will be open to guests. Some weddings are held after daily masses or other religious ceremonies. An

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Venue afternoon wedding may end a few hours before the cocktail hour begins at the reception site, leaving guests with time to kill before the reception.

Couples can try to remove as much time between the reception and ceremony as possible by coordinating with their catering managers. If finances allow, couples can request the wedding reception begin early.

This way guests can arrive at the cocktail hour and comfortably mingle among themselves.

These requests are common, and many catering managers will be happy to meet requests to keep a bride and groom’s business.

If this is not possible, couples have a few alternatives. If the reception site is a good distance away, the travel there may take up the idle time. Otherwise, the bride and groom may need to come up with another plan. In some instances, a family member opens his or her home up to some of the guests, who may enjoy light refreshments. It may

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be possible to use a cafeteria or gathering space at the ceremony site for a little while as well. If the photographer plans to take outdoor photos between the ceremony and reception, the couple can invite some guests along to witness the shots or be a part of the photo shoot.

Thoughtful couples also can provide other accommodations, such as letting guests know about local restaurants where they can spend a little time and grab a small bite to eat before the reception begins. Hotels affiliated with the wedding party may be able to host guests during these in-between hours as well. The hotel bar or a conference room might be ideal spots for guests to kill some time.

Couples also can arrange something with the reception hall. While the party room or cocktail area may not be ready until the designated time, the site may have an attached restaurant, salon or gardens, where guests can relax as they wait for the start of the festivities. BP

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2014 bridal Plan ner

Venue

Tips for Making

Seating Arrangements METRO GRAPHICS

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ne of the biggest decisions couples make regarding their wedding receptions concerns where to seat their guests. Many a bride and groom has felt the crunch of compiling responses and then coming up with an acceptable seating arrangement for the reception.

Seating guests is not a task exclusive to brides- and groomsto-be. Anyone holding a special party, whether it's at a reception hall or a restaurant, must determine seating arrangements.

Before you begin to make seating arrangements, you will need the entire list of people attending the event. Having a fi nal headcount is essential. While you may

want to do a seating chart early into the reception planning, it's best left until a few weeks before your wedding day, when you know who will and will not be in attendance.

Next, know the number of tables you will be alloted in the party space. A catering hall may have a set number of seats that can fit at each table and can usually provide you with a map of the room or a blank seating chart.

Many standard reception tables can comfortably seat between eight to ten people. Squeezing in more people can make for an uncomfortable dining experience.

If you are a visual person, you may benefit from writing guests' names on small pieces of paper and physically moving them

around your seating chart, much as you would do if you were trying to arrange furniture on a room layout.

When arranging the seating, figure out the head or bridal table.

This is one of the easier tables to seat because it is traditionally fi lled with members of your bridal party and their respective spouses or dates. If your bridal party is especially large, consider flanking your own sweetheart table with two tables for the bridal party on either side.

After arranging the bridal table, focus on seating parents and close relatives of the bride and groom next. Many couples prefer to separate their families at the wedding, so the groom's family may sit on one side of the room

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2 0 1 4 b r i d a l Pl an n er

V ENUE and the bride's family will sit on the other. This means there will be two parental tables.

Consider seating grandparents or other close family members at these tables to ensure they have a place of prominence in the room. This usually means being close to the dance floor to have a good view of all of the festivities. If your parents are divorced or there are any other strained feelings among parents, you can further separate into another table for stepparents, to avoid any unpleasantness or confrontation.

Many wedding receptions are full of friends and even coworkers of parents whom the couple tying the knot does not even know. You may need further clarification of their relationships and who gets along before seating them. In fact, ask a parent to take care of arranging their own friends so you will be certain the arrangements will be comfortable for everyone.

A friends' table is usually a mingling of friends or your own

9

COWETA

coworkers who are of similar ages. A friends' table can make guests who arrived solo feel more comfortable because they can converse with others who are like-minded.

Seating children can be tricky. You may be inclined to seat youngsters at their own table, which is fine if the children are mature enough to handle sitting by themselves.

But young children sitting apart from their parents may be nervous. Furthermore, the parents will continually have to get up and check on the kids. Very young children are best seated alongside their folks.

When arranging seating, you also must consider special needs' individuals who may have mobility issues. Such individuals should be seated near doors and restrooms so it's easier for them to get around once the reception hits full swing. Try to accommodate special requests, like not seating the elderly too close to music speakers. BP

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Food & Drinks

Variety is the

Spice of Life

with Wedding Cuisine METRO GRAPHICS

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eddings are a celebration wherein guests look forward to the reception as much as the actual ceremony, and the food served at the wedding is often hotly anticipated.

Wedding receptions feature a bevy of different foods to tempt the palates of those in attendance. From appetizers served during the cocktail hour to the last crumb of cake, food plays a big role in a wedding reception.

Choosing foods for a reception can take a little forethought, especially when the wedding party is especially large. The

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following are a few suggestions to ensure most guests are happy with the menu selections.

The first rule of thumb is variety. As much as budget allows, give guests the choice over what they dine on. During the cocktail hour — if there is one — couples can play with many different tastes and offerings. For those who want to be creative, this is the time to do so. Exotic flavors can be served alongside more traditional offerings that guests recognize.

For example, offer Asian fusion appetizers that may have spice alongside more traditional items, like miniature quiches.

During the main course of

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Food & Drinks the meal, give guests a few options. Most catering facilities will offer suggestions in their meal packages. Couples can typically choose to offer a meat dish, a poultry and a seafood.

This caters to a variety of diners.

It is important for couples to recognize that many people have food allergies or are on restricted diets. While it may not be possible to provide for everyone’s specific requirements, it is possible to make some accommodations. First, ask the catering manager how his company provides for guests who are vegetarians or vegans.

In addition, couples should recognize that many people have now adopted glutenfree lifestyles. More and more restaurants and establishments have expanded their offerings to include gluten-free items, so it is important for the bride and groom to confirm. People who are diabetic and must limit their consumption of sugars and carbohydrates may appreciate a selection of sugar-free desserts

or lower carbohydrate foods.

When couples focus on meeting the needs of their guests, it shows they have put in the effort to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable at the wedding.

Couples who have the environment in mind can choose to serve organic foods and look to catering facilities that purchase foods from local vendors and farms. If a banquet hall does not make such concessions, ask if specialty items that benefit or-

ganic and local food producers can be brought in. Some caterers will be happy to make the change, but it will likely affect the cost of the wedding package to do so.

Food and drink will be some of the most costly portions of a wedding, and couples who are interested in keeping costs down can still offer quality foods if they make some changes. Varying the time of day that the wedding is held can enable a brunch or luncheon

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wedding to take place. These foods are often less expensive and labor-intensive to prepare, and therefore the cost savings are passed down to the bride and groom. Some couples opt for a cocktail and hors d’oeuvreonly reception — which should clearly be indicated on the invitation so that guests can plan accordingly. An informal wedding may feature only a selection of desserts and specialty liquors.

This may be the least expensive option. BP

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201 4 bridal Pl anner

CAkes

Explore Unique

Cake Flavor Combinations Think outside of the cake box when selecting avors for the centerpiece of the wedding reception

METRO GRAPHICS

A

wedding cake is the pièce de rÊsistance 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, fi nding a compromise between plain vanilla and a mocha-chilecoconut 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.

Those who might want to veer from tradition can consider these clever cake combinations.

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.

Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache and mocha filling: True chocoholics will be hard-pressed to resist such a decadent flavor profi le.

Chocolate can be sweet and satisfying and a welcome change from the vanilla cakes commonly served. For traditionalists, 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 eyeappealing 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.

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 fi lled with light and rich chocolate mousse.

It's the perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate for guests who enjoy both.

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. BP

F L O W ERS

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if that's not something that suits them. Instead, choose a style that most appeals to you, be it neutral or bold colors, formal or more casual arrangements, and so on. Your style might also reveal a preference for something other than roses, which is perfectly alright.

It's your wedding.

Stay in-season when possible

When choosing a floral arrangement, it's important to consider when you'll be getting married and which flowers will be in-season.

It's possible to find most floral varieties all year, but if you choose seasonal flowers, you'll likely pay less and such flowers will be more readily available and durable.

Don't go it alone

The wedding day is going to be busy enough without brides and grooms having to worry about arranging the bouquets. A professional florist, ideally one who has come highly recommended, should be able to work within your budget and produce a visually stunning end product.

Consider candles to save money

Many couples hope for a floral centerpiece at each table, but that can prove costly. If the floral budget is somewhat limited, supplement the centerpieces with candles to save some money. The centerpieces likely won't be as grandiose, but smaller floral arrangements coupled with candles can create a romantic feel.

Stick to the budget

Couples will find it's very easy to go over budget quickly with regard to floral arrangements. But a good florist should be able to work within your budget and produce an arrangement that's visually impressive without costing a fortune. BP

Arthur Murphey Florist 6 LaGrange Street Newnan, GA

Helpful hints when choosing

Floral

Arrangements METRO GRAPHICS

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ouples must make many decisions when planning their wedding, not the least of which is choosing floral arrangements.

Some couples have never had to make choices regarding floral arrangements, so it's understandable if they need some help before making a decision that will likely make a significant impact on the appearance of their weddings.

Go with your own style Couples should not feel pressured to go with a more traditional style

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2014 bridal Plan ner

F A S H ION & B E A U T Y

Wedding Dress

Sil houet tes

F A S H ION & B E A U T Y METRO GRAPHICS

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ew wardrobe decisions are scrutinized as much as a bride-to-be’s choice of wedding gown. Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future bride’s figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides.

The Bridal Association of America estimates a bride-to-be will spend between $1,500 and $2,000 total on her gown, veil and accessories. Brides often spend months, if not years, shopping for the right gown.

Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what flatters certain body types.

Here is a look of some of the common types of gown silhouettes and why choosing this shape might be right for you.

Ballgown 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-line 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.

Trumpet 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 taut 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.

Mermaid 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.

by Candice Louise

Dressmaker and Bridal Alterations Specialist Candice Roetman 678.467.6248

FOR ALL YOUR BRIDAL NEEDS elegantdesignsbycl@gmail.com www.elegantdesignsbycandicelouise.com

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Modified A-line 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.

Tea length 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.

Sheath 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.

Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is a good idea to try on a number of different silhouettes to find the one that is most flattering. Bridal salon employees are usually well-versed in matching body type to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting a dress. BP

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Wedding Invitations Tip Sheet METRO GRAPHICS

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edding invitations often provide guests with a first glimpse of a wedding’s style.

Amid the flourishes of calligraphy and impressive paper stock is information that speaks to the importance of the day when two people will be joining their lives together. Guests will learn not only the time and the place of the wedding from the invitation, but also the formality of the event and the scope of the party that will follow.

Have a good idea of your potential guest list Before shopping for wedding

IN V I T A T IONS invitations, it is key to have a strong idea of just how big the wedding will be and how many guests will be invited. This way you will know how many invitations you will need.

whimsy to the wedding mood.

Always have the entire wedding invitation weighed and priced at the post office so you will know what the postage will cost.

Decide on the formality

Choose a legible font

Will you be hosting a black tie affair, or will it be a casual gathering? Guests infer many things about the wedding from the invitations, which should match the formality of the event in style and the sentiments expressed. An ornate invitation written with classic wording suggests a more formal affair, while a whimsical invitation with less formal wording could indicate a more laid-back event.

Dare to be different Rectangular cards are standard for wedding invitations, but you can explore your creativity by choosing more modern, artsy invitations. Circular invites or scalloped edges can add some

LIMO

How to Find a

Limousine for Your Wedding

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very bride and groom will need his and her transportation from home to the wedding ceremony and reception.

It may seem like little work goes into renting a limo. Though transportation might be one of the more hands-off components of wedding planning, that does not make it any less important.

After all, if something goes awry, you can be left stranded with no manner of getting to the wedding.

Figure out a package that will work for you, including size of car, duration of time and any other special features, such as a stocked bar, and then compare this package among the different limo companies you’re considering.

Book early

Limos, like services from other vendors, will book fast, especially during peak wedding or other seasons.

Consider a package

Most companies have put together a package for special events, like weddings. They may be the best value.

Check registration Limo companies need to have a license to operate and proper insurance.

Confirm the details Be sure that the duration of the service, how many people will be transported and all costs are spelled out in a contract for everyone’s protection. BP

Your invitation may look beautiful, but it may prove ineffective if it is difficult to read. Do not risk guests misinterpreting the date or the location because they cannot read the writing on the invitation.

Keep it simple

It may be tempting to load the invitation with lots of information, but all you really need are the key pieces of information, such as the “who,” “what,” “where,” and “when.”

Do some math

It is important to know your dates so you can receive the invitations on time, mail them out, and give guests enough time to respond. A good rule of

thumb is to mail out the invitations at least two months before the wedding. Have an RSVP date of no more than three to four weeks before the wedding, giving ample time to the caterers and accommodating anyone who procrastinates in sending in a response.

Handwrite the envelopes Your invitation will look more impressive if you address them by hand, rather than printing them off of a computer.

Make it easy to respond Be sure to place a stamp on the response card envelope and have that envelope already addressed with your home address so that guests will have no excuses not to mail a response back promptly.

Always order extra Mistakes happen. Always order extra invitations just to be on the safe side. BP

o r G A n i Z AT i o n

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WEDDING PLANNER CHECKLIST The wedding planner checklist is categorized by a timeline based on the date of your engagement to the day of your wedding. At the top of the checklist will be items that need to be addressed within 9 to 12 months from the time of your engagement. Then, the time frames are as follows: 6 to 9 months before, 4 to 6 months before, 2 to 4 months before, 6 to 8 weeks before, 4 to 6 weeks before, two weeks before, one week before, the day before, and the day of your wedding.

❏ 1. Names of the loved ones in your wedding party ❏ 2. Announce your engagement ❏ 3. Guest list ❏ 4. Wedding gown ❏ 5. Tuxedos for the groom and wedding party ❏ 6. Maid of honor and bridesmaids’ dresses ❏ 7. Flower girl(s) and ring bearer ❏ 8. Wedding favors ❏ 9. Accommodations for out-of-town guests ❏ 10. Wedding rings ❏ 11. Invitations ❏ 12. Photographer and location(s) for wedding photos ❏ 13. Wedding cake ❏ 14. Flower arrangements, bouquets, centerpieces ❏ 15. Music selections for the wedding and reception ❏ 16. Limousine, horse drawn carriage, or the like ❏ 17. Decorations (there will be subheadings under this section) ❏ 18. Menu for the reception ❏ 19. Programs for the wedding ceremony ❏ 20. Jewelry for the bride and wedding party ❏ 21. Create a bridal registry (for not only the wedding, but the bridal showers prior to the wedding day)

❏ 22. Appointments for hair, makeup and fingernails for wedding party and mothers of the bride and groom

❏ 23. Honeymoon plans Your wedding planner checklist will be much more detailed and include several minute details under each of these headings.

However, along with all of the fun items to include on your checklist, there are a few others to remember. Contact your local newspaper about printing your engagement and wedding photograph. Submit a change of address card to the post office so your mail will be delivered in a timely manner. If your state requires it, get your blood tests and then secure your marriage license.

A wedding planner checklist will ensure your day goes as planned, so make sure to look at it often and check off the completed tasks as you go. On your wedding day, relax and enjoy the day! BP

• Variety of patterns to choose from • Non-breakable melamine China • Polycarb glassware for indoor and outdoor entertaining • Bridal Registry • Gifts

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Don’t Underestimate Importance of Wedding Day Photography A professional photographer will provide the expertise needed to produce beautiful wedding photos METRO GRAPHICS

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imousines, gowns and flowers are each important components of a couple’s wedding day. But few aspects of a wedding are as important as photography.

Thanks to the popularity of social media, some couples may overlook the importance of hiring a professional photographer for their weddings. Although there is something to be said for candid images captured on phones and personal cameras, the pictures a couple will cherish and look back on for decades are best supplied by a professional photographer.

Even if you will be hiring a videographer and having photos snapped by loving friends and family, professional wedding photography is an ideal way to immortalize this special day.

Most couples say “I do” with the hopes of staying together

forever, giving them only one chance to capture the magic of the wedding day on film. Leaving photos to chance by hiring an amateur photographer may be something couples regret down the road.

Professional photographers use high-quality equipment that will produce much better results than photos snapped on the average digital camera. Plus, the photographer has experience with posing, placement of arms and legs, head tilting, and lighting, each of which ensures that the photos come out looking as good as possible. While a friend may not notice an eyesore in the rear of a photo composition when taking a picture, a professional may notice something that will stand out and make adjustments. Furthermore, professional photographers tend to have an eye for interesting angles to capture images that may be overlooked. Rather than

a series of portraits at one level, he or she may climb high for aerial shots or lie on the floor for a different perspective. The results may be unique vantage points that set your wedding photos apart from those of the masses.

Price alone should not dictate which photographer to hire.

Although wedding budgets

are often stretched, skimping on a photography allotment may result in subpar results.

That doesn’t mean you need to hire the most expensive photographer, but couples should realize the value of experience and professional equipment, both of which tend to come at a premium price. BP

W EDDIN G T H E M ES

Wedding Themes Can Add Up to Extra Fun METRO GRAPHICS

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very couple wants their wedding to be memorable.

The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come. For some couples, a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that.

Holiday

The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning.

The colors (red, green, gold) are already established, and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery, cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need. Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing, couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-thedate cards well in advance.

Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be. Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip. In addition, an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding.

Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the “happily ever after.” This is what

makes some properties as well as various venues popular backdrops for wedding events.

Interest or passion Love to climb mountains? Avid about scuba diving? Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding.

Invitations and decor can hint at the theme, and then special activities can further enhance it.

Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures, while surfboardshaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party. BP

W EDDIN G W E B SI T ES

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Wedding Web Sites Help Spread the Word METRO GRAPHICS

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lanning a wedding is no small task, and most couples look forward to the day when they’re no longer fretting over floral centerpieces or agonizing over seating arrangements. Though weddings have become more complicated in many ways, the Internet has made some things simpler for couples planning their nuptials.

Perhaps nowhere is that more true than with regard to sharing information. The Internet has made it easy for couples to keep friends and family abreast of the details that go into a wedding.

Many couples have even developed their own wedding Web site, updating the site whenever they make important decisions, such as when and where the wedding will take place, where guests can stay and all the other information guests might need.

Such information used to be sent out via traditional mail, but now couples can simply direct friends and family to their wedding Web site, saving time and money while also benefitting the environment.

But before couples design their Web sites, it’s first helpful to determine if it’s actually necessary. Couples who are planning more intimate affairs with few guests might find a Web site isn’t necessary. In addition, couples who are having a local wedding in which most of the guests live in town and won’t need to travel or make hotel arrangements, can probably get by without creating a wedding Web site. However, couples who are planning a larger affair and/or an out-of-town wedding and are expecting guests from all over the map can utilize the Internet to make it easier to communicate with prospective

guests. When developing a wedding Web site, there are some things a couple should consider.

Timing Don’t establish the Web site until you have settled on a date and location for the wedding.

The site can be a great way to share your story with friends and family, but its primary function is to act as a resource for guests. If no date or location has been picked, then the site won’t prove too helpful to guests. But once a date and location has been chosen, set up the Web site as soon as possible, ideally several months to a year in advance of the wedding. Doing so gives guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and make airline and hotel reservations.

Information When designing the site, make it easy to navigate so all the

F IN A N C ES

Financial Services for your new life together?

Tips for Merging Finances METRO GRAPHICS

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ewlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons.

One of the more critical issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going forward.

Combining finances can be a touchy subject for many couples, especially those who had not given much thought to their finances prior to tying the knot.

Discuss finances early

Couples should discuss their expenditures and spending habits as early as possible, as one of the biggest hurdles newly married couples must clear is coming to grips with one another’s financial habits. When discussing finances, define both short-term and long-term goals

and how each of you can adjust your spending habits to make those goals come true.

Pay off any debts

When merging finances, couples should prioritize paying down such debt, as debt is a significant source of stress for newlyweds and long-married couples alike. Newly married couples with little or no debt should avoid spending above their means in the months after they get married. Such spending is commonplace, as newly married couples often want to fully furnish their new homes or reward themselves for pulling off their weddings.

Open a joint account

Mutual expenses like mortgage payments, food and utilities should be the responsibility of each partner, and a joint

information a guest might need is readily available. Couples who are not tech-savvy can utilize an existing Web site like TheKnot.com, which allows its members to create a premium Web site that can include exclusive designs, links to a couple’s online registry, photos, maps of the event location, and a host of other pertinent details.

Some wedding Web site services charge a relatively small fee to keep the site running for up to a year. Couples who feel they can create a site on their own should be certain to include the date, location, directions and maps to the event locations, hotel accommodations, and wedding registry information.

Those who want to go the extra mile can include photos, the story of how they met, information about members of the wedding party and a guestbook that well-wishers can sign. BP

account should be established to handle such expenses. When opening a joint account, discuss how much and how often each partner will contribute money.

Make concessions for one another When merging finances, couples often discover that they don’t see eye-to-eye on how each person spends money.

Couples who successfully merge their finances often note the importance of making concessions with regard to their partners’ spending on certain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those hobbies are not putting couples in debt or jeopardizing their financial goals, couples can make concessions so their partners continue to be happy and enjoy their favorite activities. BP

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ENGAGEMENT Announcement The NEWNAN Times-herald • 16 Jefferson street • P. O. Box 1052 • Newnan, Georgia 30264 • 770-253-1576

Your engagement announcement will appear in the Sunday newspaper as written here.

The photograph should be of good quality or high-resolution if submitted electronically.

Please include a daytime phone number where you may be reached.

______________________________________________________________ of________________________________________ , Names of persons making announcement

announce the engagement of their daughter,__________________________________________________________________ Bride’s Name

to_____________________________________________, son of ___________________________________________________ Parents’ Names

Bridegroom’s Name

of ________________________________________________.

City, State

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of _____________________________________________________________________of __________________________________________________ and ________________________________________________ of City, State

__________________________________________________.

City, State

Miss______________________________________ is a graduate of_________________________________________________ Bride’s Last Name

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

List Schools, Honors, Degrees, Place of Employment

The future bridegroom’s grandparents are ___________________________________________________________________of __________________________________________________ and ________________________________________________ of City, State

__________________________________________________.

City, State

Mr.___________________________________________ is a graduate of_____________________________________________ Bridegroom’s Last Name

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

List Schools, Honors, Degrees, Place of Employment

The wedding will be an event of _____________________________________ at _____________________________________ .

Date

at the____________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Wedding Location

__________________________________________________ Name of person to contact regarding this information

_________________________________________________________ Phone Numbers: Work and Home

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature and Address

Send to closeup@newnan.com

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Wedding Announcement The NEWNAN Times-herald • 16 Jefferson street • P. O. Box 1052 • Newnan, Georgia 30264 • 770-253-1576 Your wedding announcement will appear in the Sunday newspaper as written here. This form will not be accepted if it is not legibly complete in sentence form. The photograph should be of good quality or high-resolution if submitted electronically. Wedding announcements should be submitted within 60 days of the wedding or fees apply. We will publish a photograph with the announcement.

_______________________________________, daughter of_______________________________________________________ , Bride’s Name

Bride’s Parents

of _____________________________________, became the bride of_________________________________________________ , City, State

Groom’s Name

son of __________________________________________________ of _______________________________________________ .

Groom’s Parents

City, State

on _____/_____/_____ at __________________________________ with _____________________________________ officiating.

Church

Minister

____________________________________ rendered a program of nuptial music and ____________________ lighted the candles.

Vocalist and/or organist

Bridal Party

________________________ of ________________________ was the bride’s Maid / Matron of Honor. ___________________ City, State

Circle One

The other Bride’s Attendants were: ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , They wore dresses of ______________________________________ and carried bouquets of______________________________ .

Color and Fabric

Kind of Flowers

_________________________ of ________________________ served as best man.

The other Groom’s Attendants were: ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , ________________________ of ________________________ , The bride entered with ______________________________________________________________________________________ .

Name and Relation to Bride

She chose a _______________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Dress Description

Her bouquet consisted of ____________________________________________________________________________________ .

Flowers

Following the ceremony, a reception was given by_________________________________________________________________ Name and Relation (ex: Bride’s parents)

at ___________________________________________________________ .

Following a wedding trip to__________________________________________________________________________________ , Location

Mr. and Mrs._________________________________________will reside in___________________________________________ . __________________________________________________ Name of person to contact regarding this information.

________________________________________________________ Day and Nighttime Phone Numbers

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature and Address

Information on prenuptial parties may be included if desired.

Send to closeup@newnan.com.

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GIFTS

Creating a Wedding Registry Now Easier than Ever it’s safe to assume your guest list will include one or two holdouts who have never before shopped online. Because of that, couples should still register with a brickand-mortar store instead of only registering online.

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hile many once popular wedding traditions might have fallen by the wayside, many others have withstood the test of time. One tradition that has endured is the wedding registry, which is designed to help wedding guests find the right gift for the couple of honor.

Couples can visit their favorite store or stores and use a handheld scanner to add items to their registry. But even though registries are easy to set up, it might help couples to consider a few tips before they start clicking or scanning away.

Register with multiple merchants Couples can help guests out by

Technology has made it easier than ever for couples to set up their wedding registries.

registering with multiple merchants. Doing so gives guests more options and increases the likelihood that guests can find the store. When choosing merchants, try to choose stores that guests can access regardless of where they live.

Don’t assume all guests are tech-savvy While the Web has made setting up and accessing a registry easier for couples and guests alike,

Vary the options within the registry When adding items to the registry, be sure to include items that everyone can afford. Especially nowadays, when many weddings host guests from far and wide, it’s ideal to include lots of affordable items. That way guests who have already spent considerable money getting to the wedding won’t have to break the bank even further to gift the bride- and groom-to-be.

As for high-end items, parents, siblings or other especially

close relatives might ask to buy those items before you even establish the registry. But it is important to include at least a few expensive items, as some guests might pool their resources and buy these gifts, saving you money while giving them the satisfaction that you got something you might not have been able to afford after paying for the wedding. BP

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