To Have and to Hold

to and to Bridal Guide|Complimentary 2016

Outdoor Weddings

The Cake

Shine bright like a diamond

Renting vs Buying How to find a wedding photographer

Family differences Courtesy photos by Shon’s Photography

Bridal Guide

Spring 2016

over 70 Sizes & Quantities | all 100% customizable to see more designs, pricing, or to book a design appointment visit www.anthologyprint.com

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Bridal Guide

to

Shine bright like a diamond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Hosting an outdoor wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Customize your wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Treasure’s reopening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Renting vs buying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

and to

Choosing the right reception favors . . . . . . . . . . 10 Finding the right wedding photographer . . . . . 12

inside

My beautiful but simple wedding . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Overcoming family differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The cake options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rehearsal dinner how-to . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Inspiration boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Honeymoon destinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Cover photo courtesy of Shon’s Photography

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Shine bright like a diamond Alternatives to the traditional diamond wedding ring Amanda Beal / amanda@uvsj.com

D Gold Moissanite

White Gold Aquamarine

Pink Gemstone Band

White Sapphire

Gray Blue Gemstone Band

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iamonds aren’t the only option for a wedding ring these days.

In fact, jewelers offer a wide variety of alternatives to fit a variety of tastes and price ranges.

At Main Street Diamonds in Rexburg, they offer cubic zirconia, moissanite, white sapphire and colored gems (Ruby, emerald, sapphire and aquamarine are just some of the hundreds of colored gems out there.

Cubic zirconia is the least expensive option, costing roughly $10 for a stone about the size of a 1-carat diamond. This stone shows wear over time, but the good news is that when the stone no longer looks pretty it doesn’t cost much to replace it.

Rick Merrill, of Main Street Diamonds, recommends the moissanite, which he said is probably the best option for someone who wants their stone to resemble a diamond. He said it looks and wears like a diamond, although it is different material.

He cautioned customers that rings with moissanite or cubic zirconia are often advertised as being diamonds. He said this is not the case. He has no problem selling these two alternatives, but he wants his customers to know what they’re getting.

Merrill said if he were to rate the stones, he would put diamond as number one and moissanite as number two.

According to Merrill, the only disadvantage to a moissanite is that it’s not a diamond.

“If somebody asks you if it’s real, say, ‘Yes, it is,’ just don’t say, ‘Real what?’” he said.

At Main Street Diamonds, people can buy a moissanite, and then if they decide they want to upgrade to a diamond, the price they paid for the moissanite goes toward a diamond to take its place.

Moissanite is followed on Merrill’s scale

by gems like sapphire and ruby.

“It’s probably the next best thing,” he said.

Cubic zirconia is a pretty good option for those who are on a tight budget but want a larger stone, Merrill added.

He said quite a few customers come in and just want a plain band or a band with diamonds, which is another alternative to traditional rings with diamonds in the center. Simple bands can be another good option for people on a smaller budget.

Alpine Jewelers, another jeweler on Main Street in Rexburg, offers the same stones in addition to diamonds: colored gems, moissanite, white sapphires and cubic zirconia.

Kevin Panter, an owner of Alpine Jewelers, echoed what Merrill said about moissanite being the most similar to diamonds. He said although nothing really compares to a diamond, moissanite is the second choice.

And, he said, moissanite costs usually ten times less than a diamond.

He said cubic zirconia has a short life expectancy, only lasting a few months before it no longer looks like a real diamond.

Panter also said colored gems need to be kept cleaner than diamonds because they are softer stones. He said although a white sapphire is one of the most common stones used in wedding rings, it doesn’t take a lot to make it dirty enough to lose its luster.

Alpine Jewelers also sells a good deal of wedding bands that do not have a main center stone. They come in varying widths continued on page 5

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shine bright like a diamond continued from page 4 and with diamonds around the band.

Alpine Jewelers also creates custom rings for people who have something specific in mind that they can’t find in the store.

Panter said the biggest factor in people choosing alternatives to diamonds is the price factor, rather than a desire to be unique.

According to Panter, diamonds remain by far the most popular. He said they are the hardest of all the stones, and “nothing compares to a diamond.”

Jensen Jewelers, located on Second East in Rexburg, does not recommend moissanite as an alternative to diamonds. In fact, they refuse to sell it.

The reason for this, explained manager Caleb Beck, is because he said it can have a greenish hue and doesn’t look as pretty as a diamond.

He said the greenish color is not as noticeable when the moissanite is set in white gold, but he said the difference is quite apparent when it is set in rose gold or yellow gold.

Beck said that at Jensen Jewelers, they feel moissanite is a waste of time and money.

An option Jensen Jewelers recommends is the Pure Grown diamond, or lab diamond, which Beck said costs about 30 percent less than a diamond. He said experts can’t tell the difference between Pure Grown diamonds and mined diamonds.

Jensen Jewelers also offers cubic zirconia and colored gems.

One of their most popular gems is morganite, which is a light peach color.

Beck said if people want a gemstone, sapphire is a good option because it is close to the durability of a diamond, and it comes in most colors of the rainbow.

They also offer many varieties of plain bands, as well as custom rings.

All three businesses offer pearls for wedding rings, though they discourage them for a ring that will be worn every day because pearls are so soft and delicate.

When asked what he thought were some of the factors that affect people buying alternatives to traditional diamonds, Beck said budget is probably the first concern. He said a lot of people think about the here and now instead of the future, so they opt for a cheaper option that will require maintenance down the road.

“You spend three grand for a diamond, and you’re done,” he said.

He said, however, that while Jensen Jewelers encourages customers to consider diamonds, they will cater to whatever the customer wants. ❧

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Factors to consider when hosting an outdoor wedding

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any couples tie the knot outdoors, as nature can provide an idyllic backdrop on such a special day. In many ways, planning outdoor weddings is similar to planning weddings that take place with a roof overhead and four walls surrounding couples and their guests. But there are some distinct features of both indoor and outdoor weddings, and couples planning the latter would be wise to consider the following factors before they commit to a location for their ceremony.

Laws

Laws dictate what can and cannot be done in open spaces, and couples with outdoor locations in mind should confirm local laws and regulations before they commit to a location for their wedding.

Research which permits you might need and if there are any rules or restrictions at each location you are considering. The cost of such permits may be negligible, but the rules may restrict what you can do in a given space and how long you can do it. Discuss these rules with each other to determine if the rules are something both of you can live with.

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Location

Proximity to your reception venue and the hotel where guests are staying is another factor to consider if you are planning on hosting an outdoor wedding.

A remote location might provide stunning views and privacy, but guests might tire if the ceremony location is far from the hotel and/or reception venue.

This should not be too big an issue if the ceremony and reception are held at the same locale, but couples should still look for nearby lodging before booking remote outdoor locations.

Weather

Weather is perhaps the biggest factor couples must consider when planning an outdoor wedding. Outdoor weddings are best held during those seasons when the threat of precipitation is insignificant and temperatures are mild, but it’s still necessary to have a backup plan just in case Mother Nature does not want to cooperate.

If possible, find an outdoor location that

provides access to an indoor ceremony facility in case of inclement weather. If that’s not possible, monitor the forecast as closely as possible and arrange for a tent to be erected should rain start to fall. (Note: The cost of such tents can be considerable, so build this contingency into your budget.) If the forecast is calling for chillier temperatures than you had hoped for, email out-of-town guests a few days in advance to remind them to dress warm.

Logistics

No matter how beautiful a backdrop may be, photos of an outdoor ceremony can be compromised. Couples, along with their photographers, should visit the site in the weeks before their weddings to determine arrangements for the ceremony that will guarantee photos are not compromised by sunlight or shade.

Facility managers can probably offer advice as to the best places to hold the ceremony and seat guests, but a run-through at the location with your photographer in tow can help ensure your photos come out â?§ perfect.

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Customize your ceremony

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to give it a unique touch

teeped in tradition, weddings have featured many of the same components for centuries. Those about to tie the knot may feel somewhat limited in their ability to shape their weddings into unique celebrations of their relationships and love for one another. Although it may not seem like there are many opportunities to put your own stamp on the wedding, there are plenty of ways to do just that.

When looking to personalize your wedding ceremony, determine if there might be anything blocking you from doing so.

For example, if yours will be a religious ceremony, there may be certain rites that need to be followed. Secular ceremonies may offer more opportunities to customize.

• Vows: Vows are one of the easiest ways to put a personal touch on your wedding.

You can select the words you want to exchange during the ceremony as well as any readings during the service. Work with your officiant to narrow down particular phrasing or sentiments that fit with your vision of the wedding and relationship.

• Participants: Wedding party members fulfill certain roles during the ceremony, but they are not limited to those tasks alone. Consider asking wedding party members or other friends or family members to take on specialized roles in the wedding. They may be able to do certain readings, escort guests to their seats, light candles, or sing and participate in other ways.

• Musical interludes: Choose music that connects with your personalities as a couple rather than selecting standard songs

merely because they are the easier route.

Work with the organist or other musicians and request that they perform or play musical pieces that you enjoy.

• Candle lighting: Many couples like to incorporate candle-lighting components to their ceremonies. Lighting unity candles blends two families together into one in a symbolic way. Other couples choose different traditions, such as mixing two different-colored sands in a new vessel, to represent the joining of two lives together.

You can consider these types of additions for your wedding ceremony or come up with your own unique tradition.

Impart a special touch to a wedding ceremony in any number of ways. Doing so will help set this special day apart in the minds of guests and make it even more memorable to look back on as a couple. ❧

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Treasure’s Bridal reopens in Rexburg Sonia Billadeau / Freelance Writer

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reasure’s Bridal, located in Rexburg, Idaho, after being closed for a time, was reopened this past January.

Treasure’s Bridal is one of the largest formal-wear stores in Idaho, with locations in Idaho Falls and Rexburg.

Established in 1992, this store offers a variety from wedding dresses to quinceanera gowns to tuxedos. According to their website, Treasure’s Bridal provides designers from Maggie Sottero, Casablanca and Allure Bridal.

During their time off, Treasure’s Bridal remodeled their interior, changed management and obtained a new line of apparel.

Natalie, an Idaho Falls consultant, explained the reason for remodeling and the new changes for this location.

“The store has been opened for a long time, and it needed a face lift,” Natalie said. “It has been 10 years since the store has been remodeled. It was old.”

Natalie said they have a new look and a new wardrobe for the audience in Rexburg. She said Treasure’s Bridal has taken note to what women want in town, which are modest dresses. They are striving to better cater to those wants.

On the Treasure’s Bridal web page, they shared, “We not only carry quality designs that are modest, but we can modify any

dress to make it fit your needs. We are able to get matching fabric so that it matches the dress you choose. Throughout the purchase process, our in-house seamstress is on hand to ensure that your wedding gown fits perfectly for your special day.”

Treasure’s Bridal is now more confident that they will provide the best services to ensure satisfied customers.

The consultants in Rexburg are Susannah and Rita, according to their website.

Treasure’s new selection of dresses and styles is not the only thing in production. The store now has a new line of tuxedos for the man of the hour.

Before remodeling and the changes, all of the gowns were for purchase and the tuxes were for rental only. Now, both gowns and tuxedos are for purchase.

“We have remodeled,” Natalie said. “We gave the store a new look and new couture. We are on trend.”

If you are looking for a wedding dress, formal dress or snazzy tux in Rexburg, check out the new and improved Treasure’s Bridal.

The store is located on 122 E. Main St. and their hours are 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. , Monday through Saturday.

You can also call 208-356-3565 to schedule an appointment.

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22 E. Main Street • Rexburg 8

www.treasuresbridal.com

(208) 356-3565

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Bridal Guide

To rent or to buy the dress: That is the question Sonia Billadeau / Freelance Writer

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eddings are an exciting time where families come together, dressed in their best formal attire and stuffed with delicious foods and snacks.

One thing everyone will remember that day is the wedding dress of the bride.

Some may ask where she got the dress or comment on the lovely design. But before the big day, she had to make the decision of renting or buying the beautiful gown.

Some brides rent and some buy their wedding dresses, but is there a right way to obtain the perfect dress?

In Rexburg, there are bridal shops that rent and sell their dresses.

Circle of Love and The Glass Slipper are two bridal stores who have shared their services and expertise to brides-to-be for a total of 30 years in the Rexburg area.

Both stores have shared their opinion on whether renting or buying is best.

Circle of Love has been assisting women and men since 1991. Owners Heather and Jon Weber still open their doors to brides and grooms today. This bridal shop does not rent their formal apparel.

The Glass Slipper, owned by Alicia Jacobson, has been helping young women with prom and wedding dresses since 2011. This bridal shop sells and rents formal wear.

Heather Weber and Alicia Jacobson provided some great insight on purchasing a dress, renting a dress and the many factors that could arise when making the decision.

“For purchasing a dress, you can get the alterations that fit you exactly,” Weber said.

“You can get the dress that you want to have. It’s new, it’s never been worn, and for some people it’s a sentimental thing.”

Weber said some women want to keep their wedding dresses so they can have their daughters try them on. If a bride rents her dress, she won’t have the option to keep the dress, but she will have to return it after the big day.

Jacobson said renting a dress from her can be like buying the perfect dress, but without the cost.

“I think it’s a really smart option to rent because you can get a designer dress you want for at least 75 percent off,” Jacobson said. “A lot of the dresses are brand new, so

sometimes the bride is the first to wear it.

We do alterations and prep the dress for a small cost. Alterations after buying the dress can make it double the price.”

Even though Weber is for purchasing the dress and her store only sells them, she understands why renting is also a good option.

Weber said finding the perfect dress and having it in the right size before the big day can take months. From alterations and delivery, buying the perfect dress can take more time and needs to be done in advance.

“The con for purchasing a dress is probably price and also availability because purchasing a dress can be from two to six months,” Weber said. “Whereas for renting, they will be on hand.”

Although the Glass Slipper encourages renting, Jacobson also sees the joy of buying the wedding dress.

Jacobson said most women get attached to the dress and would possibly wear it multiple times. If a bride needs the dress for several occasions, then she should consider buying the dress. Jacobson also shared that some women buy their dresses so they can create future blessing gowns for their newborns.

When renting or buying a dress, some faults may come up.

“The dress maybe not fit you perfectly because it is a rental dress,” Weber said.

“They can’t alter it so it can fit your exact body shape. If you were from Rexburg and your fiancé is from California, you’d be in that dress twice. It will cost you double the amount to rent that when you could have just bought the dress.”

Jacobson also recognized if a bride rents her dress, there may be fees for cleaning or damages in certain stores.

“Some shops may not allow them to do many alterations, so they may be limited if they want to have a custom dress,” Jacobson said. “Also, if there is a lot of damage done to the dress, that would be hard on the bride. In our five years, we haven’t had any damage that we simply couldn’t fix, and I have never charged a bride

extra for anything like that, but other stores would require a damage fee.”

Both Heather Weber and Alicia Jacobson gave some advice for the brides-to-be. Weber and Jacobson mentioned it will depend on the bride’s budget, if she is willing to buy the dress and wants to keep it or if she wants the dress only for that special day.

“My advice to brides is as soon as you decide that you are going to get engaged, the first thing you should do is go look for a dress because of the time table for getting the perfect dress,” Weber said.

So, to rent or to buy; that is the question.

It all depends on the bride and the budget.

There is no right or wrong way to go, just be sure to find the perfect fit.

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wedding reception favors Choosing the right one One of the final components of weddings is 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.

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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.

Be creative Wedding favors can be just about anything, so there’s no need to stick to

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wedding reception favors continued from page 10

Jordan almonds or wine bottle stoppers. The more creative couples are, the more receptive their guests will likely be.

For example, for an autumn-themed 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.

Complete the theme 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 self-proclamed beach bums may want to present a small fishbowl with sand and a goldfish inside, reminiscent of days at the seashore.

Go traditional 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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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. â?§

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Bridal Guide

How to find the right wedding photographer

Courtesy photos by Shon’s Photography

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ong after the final toast has been made and 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.

The following tips can help guarantee a successful wedding shoot and beautiful photos to recall the best moments of the day.

• 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.

Bridal Guide 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 includes. 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.

Do not judge the photographer on his or her body of work alone. You will likely grow more comfortable with the photographer if you get to know him or her in the months leading up to your wedding. ❧

• 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

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Amanda Beal / amanda@uvsj.com

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Spring 2016

My beautiful, but simple, wedding

f you’re about to be a bride or a groom, there’s something crucial you need to know: your wedding does not need to be stressful, extravagant and expensive to be perfect and beautiful.

I know this because my wedding was perfect and beautiful — and it wasn’t stressful, extravagant or expensive.

Trust me, it can be done. You just have to be willing to let go of the things that, let’s be honest, really don’t matter and focus on the things that you, your spouse, and your guests will remember long after you tie the knot.

The ring

Before the wedding planning even started, I was thinking simple. I didn’t want a gaudy, sparkle-tastic ring. I didn’t want the big, bright, jealousy-inducing rock all the girls demand when they get engaged. I wanted something simple, something different.

We looked at all the jewelry shops, and nothing caught my eye. After

looking everywhere we could think of, we happened upon a hole-in-the-wall pawnshop. The place was a little creepy on that cold, winter night, and when we went in it seemed to be the kind of place that has everything except for jewelry. Still, we asked the nice man at the counter, and he brought out a case of rings for me to look at.

I tried on every ring in the box that I liked and finally narrowed it down to THE ONE. It was yellow gold with a small, exquisite diamond in the middle and a gold leaf on each side. It looked like a little flower and was designed so it looked beautiful as an engagement ring and then even more beautiful when the wedding band was connected. It was perfect.

What made it even more perfect was the clerk telling us it cost $150. It was exactly what I wanted — beautiful, unique, and simple.

The dress

The first thing I did to simplify my

wedding dress shopping was to forgo the idea that I needed to bring every female I know with me. I didn’t want a whole bunch of different opinions being thrown at me, clouding what I, the bride, wanted my dress to be like. I just brought my trusty cousin, Kirsten, with me.

The next thing I did was open my heart to the possibilities. I thought I wanted something cream-colored with a corset back, but all the dresses that fit that description were way out of my price range. So I just tried on anything that looked promising.

I snatched an interesting-looking dress off the sales rack on a whim, a dress that was nothing like what I imagined. When I put it on, however, I knew it was THE ONE. It was white, with short sleeves and gold beading down the front that reminded me of a romantic garden. It had a train, and pleated tulle cascaded from the bottom of the dress. I fell in love with it. It cost less than $500, and I found the perfect shoes to go with it for $6 at a thrift store. continued on page 15

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My beautiful, but simple, wedding

The suit

I don’t need to say much about the suit, other than you really don’t need a tuxedo.

It makes a lot more sense, in my opinion, to buy a nice suit that your husband will actually wear again. I think the one my husband bought only cost $200 or so, and then we got suspenders, a bowtie and a new white shirt for him to wear under it.

He used the classy, black church shoes he already had, and bam! Super handsome groom made simple.

The reception

As my husband and I are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, we got married in an LDS temple. With most LDS weddings there is a ceremony at an LDS temple followed by a reception. We did things a little bit differently.

We were married in the temple, and then instead of doing a reception we just did a simple luncheon. Everyone ate, and then we cut the cake, and it was over. We didn’t have to stand in a line or talk to 400 people. We just ate at a table with some of our close friends and family and then left. And let me tell you, it was wonderful.

Instead of arriving exhausted at our honeymoon suite at midnight, like a lot of people do, we were done with the luncheon at 4 in the afternoon and then we were off to start our married lives together. Frankly, I’m not sure why everyone doesn’t do it that way.

After a week in Mexico we came back and had a very simple reception in my husband’s parents’ backyard. We gave my sister-in-law a modest budget and let her put the whole thing together for us, so all we had to do was show up. We didn’t have a line there, either, but just sat on a couple of chairs and talked to people as they came in. We didn’t have a lot of people there, so it wasn’t a constant stream. It was relaxed and pleasant for our guests and for us.

It was May, so the crabapple tree was covered in pink petals and the lilacs surrounding the yard were in bloom. It was beautiful, simple and perfect — exactly how I wanted.

The decorations

One thing I knew I wanted, above all, was for no one to be stressed out about my wedding, especially me. I wanted to enjoy my special day — and my engagement, for that matter. So instead of going through the ordeal of planning everything myself, I told my mom and sister-in-law what I wanted and let them take care of it. I know not everyone can do this, but if you really are committed to having a simple wedding, you probably don’t care about micromanaging a million details yourself.

So let it go! Let someone else do it for you. Tell someone you trust all the things that are important to you, and leave the rest up to them. I told my mom I wanted lilacs and little lights on the tables at the luncheon, and everything else I left up to her. She did a beautiful job. There were round tables with white tablecloths and silk lilacs in glass lamps, with little lights everywhere. My mom chose utensils, plates and cups that were disposable but still looked really nice. (The utensils were shiny and silver so they looked like silverware but were plastic. Genius!)

For the reception after the honeymoon, my husband’s twin sister decorated my in-laws’ backyard with do-it-yourself pieces that were simple but adorable. Combined with the natural beauty of my mother-inlaw’s yard, I can’t imagine a more perfect scene.

And that was about the extent of the decorations. Overall it was gorgeous but super simple.

Everyone told me so, and I couldn’t have been happier with how it turned out.

of honor and your bridesmaids and all the groomsmen, and you really don’t need to buy them matching clothes they will never wear again. I have never regretted getting rid of the wedding party at my wedding, because it wasn’t something that was important to me. If it’s important to you, do it, but remember that it’s your wedding.

Don’t overcomplicate things by trying to please everyone else or trying to follow traditions you don’t care about.

Most women spend their lives imagining the grandeur of their wedding day, and I am no exception. But as I got older, I realized what was really important. I realized I wanted to make my wedding simple and stress-free, so that’s what I did.

As a result, I was able to focus on what a wedding should be about: the love two people share and the hope of a beautiful life ahead. ❧

The wedding party

Not only do you not need a tux, but you also don’t need the wedding party! You don’t need to go through the stress of choosing who will be your maid

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Bridal Guide

Fun, creative, professional photographer with 7 years experience.

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Spring 2016

Spring 2016

Bridal Guide

Overcoming family differences during your wedding Sonia Billadeau / freelance writer

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o, you have been dating your significant other for some time, and now you two are talking about marriage. Certain elements of the wedding are gradually becoming a solid deal, such as the color theme and the perfect place for the reception.

But one important thing you two will do as a couple is telling your families the exciting news. Are you both nervous or excited to tell your families? Do you believe your family will accept him? Will his family accept you?

Most people dream about having a first great impression with their future in-laws, and vice versa for their future spouse and family, but most relationships don’t go as planned.

Sometimes, couples struggle with acceptance from their own family.

I am Sonia Billadeau, and my mother did not come to my wedding.

I was raised in Chicago, Illinois by my mom, alongside my little sister. There is a six-year difference between my sister and I, but our relationship is as close as if we were born a year apart.

My relationship with my mom is another story. We are both shy in nature, and once we are alone together, we have nothing to say. My

sister is our crazy fireball that ties us together.

One thing you need to know about my mother is she struggles to express certain affections.

My mom was raised to conceal her emotions and to be the “strong one” in her family. So when raising my sister and I, she taught us not to cry and that giving hugs was unnecessary. But, she did teach us to be polite to everyone we met.

The rough edges of my mother became permanent when she had to raise two girls alone, and dating always left her heart broken. So, when I told her I was dating a boy from school, she told me to be cautious and make the right decisions. I obeyed her requests.

Until I told her I wanted to marry him.

I presented different color schemes and flower arrangements to make her feel included in our decision, but my mother said she did not want to be a part of the wedding.

I tried to explain to her why I loved this man, but she paid no attention. My mom continuously said I was too young to get married and that I should have a master’s degree before marriage.

And I could see why she did not want me to get married.

My mom is finishing her bachelor’s degree right now, and she is a single parent with two children. She did not want me to follow in her footsteps. And possibly, she wanted the footprints I was planting.

I was 21 years old when I got engaged and about to start my last year in the bachelor’s program at Brigham Young University-Idaho.

I still felt young and had long-term goals I wanted to accomplish. But I knew I wanted to accomplish those goals with this wonderful man by my side.

Some of my extended family were accepting and wanted to attend the wedding, but they did not come because they could not travel to

where the festivities would take place, in Salt Lake City.

My husband and I were married in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Jan. 2, 2015.

The family I had come to my wedding was my little sister. And I am grateful she was there.

I also had a lot of great friends attend who were close enough to be family.

Our reception at the Joseph Smith Building was breathtaking, and my husband’s family made everything possible.

I do not hate my mother and her decision to not attend my wedding. Because of everything that has happened between us, I love her more.

I was upset by her decision and the way she acted towards my husband when they first met, but I know forgiving her will make a path for her to forgive me.

If you or your future spouse are in a similar situation, be gentle with those around you. I know you may be upset or feel discriminated against by those you love, but saying the wrong thing can make you regret it for a long time.

Members of your family or future family may not come to terms quickly, but they will eventually come to terms.

It has been a year now, and my mom is slowly accepting my marriage.

I have kept her updated with my life since day one of my marriage, and even though she was not comfortable hearing about my husband, she was happy that I still wanted her in my life.

If you are having second thoughts about your marriage because of some negativity coming from either family, then think about it. Give it some time and communicate with your future spouse. If both of you feel this is the right thing to do, to get married, then do it. Both families will be accepting in no time.

If you feel your family or your fiance’s family will not accept your decision, then be patient.

We cannot control people, but we can control our responses towards their actions.

To end on a happy note, I want to congratulate you and your significant other for wanting to take this big step in your lives. I hope only the best for you and many years of happiness. ❧

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Spring 2016

Bridal Guide

The Cake DECOR & MORE

so many options to choose from

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lanning a wedding can be stressful for new brides in the Rexburg area. They have to worry about a dress, caterer, guest list and so many other factors, but what most people don’t consider in the beginning of the planning process is the wedding cake.

According to theknot.com, it’s helpful for brides to determine what style they want their cake, the wedding color scheme, how many tiers they need, their price range, what the

weather the day of their wedding will be like and what kind of embellishments they want on the cake before they meet with the bakers.

For brides in Rexburg there are a few custom cake options when planning a wedding.

Constance Haworth, owner of Rexburg Cakes, said she works individually with each bride to create a one-of-a-kind, custom cake. continued on page 19

Your wedding cake headquarters Contact your local Broulim’s market cake specialist.

Rexburg Bonnie 356-4651

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Driggs Maria 354-2350

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Ammon Gayle 522-3250

47 Years of Wedding Experience

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Spring 2016

The Cake .“I love working with the brides, and I take their individual situations into account when helping create the cake of their dreams,” Haworth said.

She said there is one thing she wishes every bride knew before they met with Rexburg Cakes to start designing the cake.

“I wish they knew what their guest list looked like to determine the amount of servings we need to provide for,” Haworth said. “They see these beautiful cakes that they love, but they don’t know how many tiers they need for their guests.”

Haworth said knowing a rough estimate for the guest list makes the process of designing the cake move faster.

She said after she and brides have determined the amount of tiers needed in the cake, she is able to work with the brides on a price that they can afford.

“I try to take every bride into consideration,” Haworth said.

“I try to keep it compared to the cost of living around here.”

Haworth said bakers in the Rexburg area usually charge roughly $3 to $4 per slice, depending on multiple factors, including whether the cake is covered in buttercream or fondant, other embellishments, piping, whether the cake will be delivered of picked up and many

continued from page 18 other factors.

“I try to keep my prices reasonable, and I try not to rip people off,” she said. “I use really good ingredients so people are getting high quality products for the amount of money they’re paying.”

Haworth said a lot of the custom cake designers in Rexburg are like her and run very small operations.

“I don’t do a lot of advertising because I can’t afford it,” Haworth said. “But I love doing wedding cakes. I love the brides, and I love making the cakes.”

For more information on wedding cakes in the Rexburg area, brides can visit theknot. com or rexburgcakes.com. ❧

Spring 2016

Bridal Guide

Rehearsal dinner how-to

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any couples find their wedding rehearsal dinners to be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of wedding planning. Such dinners enable the happy couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a relatively casual gathering with their closest friends and family members.

Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the night or two before the wedding. The couple, members of their wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom and others involved in the wedding typically attend this dinner. The couple generally takes the time at the dinner to thank everyone for their contributions to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of appreciation. No rules govern rehearsal dinners, so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners as they see fit.

Rehearsal dinners often come immediately after the ceremony rehearsal, when the wedding party and the officiant go over the timing and details of the wedding.

Make arrangements with the ceremony site and officiant prior to making dinner reservations.

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Parents of the groom traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in planning the event. That means couples should keep an open and gracious mind. Remember, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to any budget or preference.

Some couples feel that hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can make the dinner more comfortable for members of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another before the wedding.

This will help to tame nerves and enable the wedding party to loosen up and enjoy themselves even more. Some people may be more inclined to socialize and have fun when they’re not worried about putting on airs.

Restaurants that have special meaning to the couple often make for great places to hold rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can suggest their ideas, but ultimately it is the person handling the bill who has the final say. Couples who want greater control over the rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting it them-

selves.

Despite its name, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t actually have to be a dinner, as couples can opt for meals at a different time of the day, like brunch or lunch. An earlier occasion gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest up for the festivities of the wedding to come.

Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner, but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks. A couple with a good sense of humor might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal dinners.

The bride and groom should expect to say a few words of thanks to all in attendance, but remarks need not be too formal.

Rehearsal dinners may even feature a little entertainment. Tech-savvy parents may put together a presentation with videos or photographs that chronicle the couple’s lives separately and their life together.

Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for couples and their families to spend time together before the larger festivities of the wedding pull them in multiple directions. Plus, they set a fun tone for the wedding weekend to come. ❧

Bridal Guide

Inspiration boards

bring wedding plans to life

Making 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 jump-start 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. 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.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings. ❧

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Bridal Guide

Spring 2016

honeymoon Tips when choosing a destination

As couples cope with the stress and struggles of planning a wedding, many begin to see their honeymoons as a time when they can finally unwind and relax without having to worry about seating arrangements, vendor negotiations or the host of other responsibilities that come with planning a wedding. But securing the perfect honeymoon can be nearly as difficult as planning the wedding.

The biggest dilemma couples face when planning a honeymoon is where to spend that first week or so as a

married couple. The right locale for a honeymoon varies depending on the couple. Some might prefer a Hawaiian island while others might find a week spent camping in a national park is more their style. Whatever you and your future spouse’s style may be, the following are a few tips to ensure you both have the time of your lives.

• Decide what you can afford. The days when the bride’s father takes care of the bill for the wedding are largely a thing of the past. Many of today’s couples finance their own weddings,

continued on page 23

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Spring 2016

honeymoon

Bridal Guide continued from page 22

which can leave little money left over for the honeymoon. When shopping for a honeymoon destination, know what you can and can’t afford. Your honeymoon budget may narrow your options considerably, but it will help you ensure you aren’t spending your first trip as a married couple pinching pennies.

• Play around with the length of your trip. Many couples aim to spend at least one week on their honeymoons. But one way to save money on the honeymoon or make a more expensive locale more affordable is to reduce the length of your stay. An extra two days in paradise might break your honeymoon budget, but what about a shorter stay? You will likely want to spend at least five days at your chosen destination, but a five-day trip can prove considerably less expensive than a full week, especially if you arrive and depart on a weekday.

• Travel in the offseason. While many couples deserve an immediate getaway after planning and financing their

weddings, you might get a better deal if you delay your honeymoon until the offseason, when resorts tend to offer more attractive packages after the tourist season has peaked. A honeymoon in the offseason is likely to offer more privacy than one taken during the peak of the season, so you might find such a honeymoon is more romantic. If you do decide to delay your honeymoon, you might still want to plan a short getaway to a nearby locale for a few days after you tie the knot. Even a short trip can help you unwind after all that planning and coordinating.

• Establish a honeymoon registry. In addition to who’s paying for the wedding, one of the ways in which today’s couples are different from those of yesteryear is the fact that many couples now live together before tying the knot. That reality has made the traditional registry somewhat obsolete, as many of today’s

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couples already own their own furniture and already have a fully stocked kitchen.

But couples can still have a honeymoon registry, which allows their guests to donate money they would otherwise be spending on a wedding gift to a fund that will be used specifically to fund the couple’s honeymoon and any adventures they choose to enjoy on their trip. Guests may even prefer such a registry, as it saves them the trouble of wrapping a gift and carrying it to the wedding while ensuring the happy couple will truly enjoy their gift.

A couple’s honeymoon is a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy some rest and relaxation on their first trip together as husband and wife. And by putting a few savvy suggestions to good use, couples can ensure their honeymoon is all they hoped it would be and much, much more.

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Bridal Guide

Spring 2016

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