jewelry that makes a statement

by anne pyburn craig

You probably don’t want to walk down the aisle without some sparkles in your ensemble, but it can be hard to find the perfect jewelry to complement a wedding gown. A good general rule: The more elaborate the dress, the simpler the jewelry. Beyond that, some shapes and styles lend themselves to particular necklines better than others, so here’s a starting point in your search for the just-right gems.

If your dress is one-shoulder or has a high neck, skip the necklace—let the dress work its magic undisturbed, and go with drop or stud earrings for a pulled-together look.

Scoop neck: A choker and studs or small earrings will accent the graceful beauty of your neck and shoulders.

Boat neck: Colored earrings will reflect nicely against your white-clad shoulders. Think about studs or something small and simple. Keep your necklace small and close to your throat—a solitaire stone looks lovely.

One-shoulder: Skip the necklace with this one, but simple earrings— drops or studs—look fabulous.

High-neck: Here too, skip the neckwear and let the dress work its magic undisturbed, and go with drop or stud earrings for a pulled-together look.

Strapless: Here’s your chance to go with earrings that make a statement. Long sparkling strands? A pop of color? Match with a tennis bracelet and a choker or collar-length piece.

Off-the-shoulder: Consider a choker and matching earrings. Or skip the necklace and let the earrings do the work—statement earrings with an off-the-shoulder gown are stunning. Another lovely choice: a classic strand of pearls.

Sweetheart: Try a pendant necklace with a drop, ending two to three inches above where your dress begins.

V-neck: A pendant goes well with this. A wide V-neck can handle a dramatic larger drop; if your V-neck’s narrow, keep it small and simple.

adel chefridi studio & gallery

Rhinebeck, 845-684-5185, chefridi.com

Adel’s designs have their own way of communicating with anyone who beholds them, transcending both language and time. Come find us nestled in the Village of Rhinebeck, where we have created an inviting gallery to share our jewelry and other treasures to please the senses; where beauty honors the past, is grounded in the present, and looks forward to the future.

Facets Of Earth

Kingston, 845-331-2693, facetsofearth.com

We create exceptionally handcrafted jewelry in our open studio. Choose to watch your ideas come to life, repurpose your old jewelry, or enjoy our selection of fine jewelry designers from around the globe. Whether you’re searching for traditional or alternative styles, we will make your experience unforgettable.

Hudson Valley Goldsmith

Beacon, 845-440-7894, New Paltz: 845-255-5872 hudsonvalleygoldsmith.com

If you’re looking for something a little different, come visit the master jewelers at work at Hudson Valley Goldsmith. You can design your own one-of-a-kind ring or choose from hundreds already made and in stock. With the area’s largest selection of diamonds, rough diamonds, and precious gemstones to choose from, you’ll be sure to have something special. Come see why they’ve been voted the Best Jewelry Store in the Hudson Valley.

Hummingbird Jewelers

Rhinebeck, 845-876-4585, hummingbirdjewelers.com j bliss studios: goldsmith & gallery

Celebrating 44 years as Rhinebeck’s full-service jewelers. An award-winning destination for fine designer jewelry from around the globe. Specializing in custom design, repurposing and repair by in-house goldsmith Bruce Anderson. Using ethically sourced gems, conflict-free diamonds and recycled precious metals. Appraisals for insurance, estate, and liquidation purposes by owner gemologist-appraiser Bruce Lubman.

Open Thurs-Mon 11-5, Sun 12-5, closed Tues and Wed.

Woodstock, 845-514-9820, jblissstudios.com

Each piece at J Bliss Studios is handcrafted by husband-andwife team Jared and Joanna Bliss in their Woodstock studio and storefront. Whether it’s using heirloom stones or creating a custom design, they are happy to work with you. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Catskills, using recycled gold and diamonds, they create meaningful and unique wedding bands, engagement rings, and bridal jewelry.

schneider’s jewelers

Kingston, 845-331-1888, schneidersjewelers.com

This Kingston landmark has displayed everything you might want in jewelry, watches, bridal jewelry, and unique gifts since 1928. They also offer a wide variety of services, including repairs, appraisals, and custom design. Schneider’s prides itself on its business ethics, management, and professional and knowledgeable service.

Elegant Cocktail Music

Sullivan County, Hudson Valley, 917-660-4375, luxrdmusic.com

LuxRd. (“Lux Road”) specializes in creating a joyful and sophisticated atmosphere for any occasion. Our focus is The Great American Songbook–classic popular vocal music, with a contemporary twist. We’re seasoned veterans who have played on and Off-Broadway and on numerous tours. We’re also aligned with excellent DJs who can provide custom, collaborative playlists that will have your party guests dancing well into the night.

Major Mayhem Karaoke

Hudson Valley, 646-472-6248, MajorMayhemKaraoke.com

Looking to create an inclusive, uplifting musical experience? Want to elevate an expression of love in a next level performance? Inspire an impromptu dance party? Sabrina has an unmatched gift of bringing everyone in the room together with this super uplifting, participatory and festive musical adventure. Major Mayhem has created such experiences for over 20 years in NYC and now in the Hudson Valley.

Makebelieve Av

Hudson Valley/NYC, makebelieveav.com

Makebelieve Audiovisual specializes in creating captivating, functional lighting and sound solutions for events. We provide lighting design, as well as DJ and live sound equipment rentals and installation. Whether you are organizing a corporate event or perhaps something more personal, we can work closely with your team to achieve truly compelling results that range from live event production to post production.

the catskill quartet / woodstock trio

Hudson Valley, catskillquartet.com, catskillquartet@gmail.com

On your special day, you want every sound, sensation, and sight to be stunning. What could be more perfect than the sound of a live string quartet? Wini and the members of the Catskill Quartet/Woodstock Trio have decades of experience and are perfect for any occasion! From Bach to Vitamin String Quartet pop arrangements…check out our website’s vast music listing!

Music Options for Your Big Day

band , dj , or diy ?

by anne pyburn craig

Music options are important for your big day. Here are tips to help you hit the right note.

• A live band is going to cost more than a DJ and require more time and space for setup, but nothing stirs the soul like real live human music.

• Consider hiring a DJ if your dream playlist contains a lot of distinctive songs from varied genres and you want them note-perfect.

• If you’re considering hiring a pro, whether band or DJ, see if you can get a peek at them in action. At the very least, watch videos of more than one event. Besides the music, you’ll want to make sure you like their look and their style of interacting with an audience.

• If you have a favorite bar or club where the sounds are always lit, ask management for their band or DJ recommendations. You can also check online booking agencies and (of course) wedding websites and magazines for ideas.

• Once you have chosen a music provider, make sure they know everything they need to know— songs to include, songs to avoid, the overall mood you’re going for, and a general sense of their audience. Do you want to throw that Sinatra number in for Grandma?

Is there a group dance you love, or one you hate? Let your band or DJ know.

• As tech has improved, being your own DJ has gotten easier. All you need is the premium version of a good music streaming service, solid WiFi, and decent speakers. Of course, if you go this route, you’ll be the ones choosing every single song on the playlist—which can be awesome or a chore, depending on how you look at it.

Determining what songs will accompany the moments of your special day can be wonderful fun. You may want to create custom playlists for pre-wedding events too, like some special songs to get the wedding party mood just right while getting ready.

You probably have a few must-have songs in mind for major moments. As soon as you know how the day will flow, sit down together and plan out your musical score. Chamber music as people arrive and get settled? A soloist for the bride’s entry, or as part of the ceremony?

Recessional? Cocktail hour, grand entrance, dinner music for the reception? This is your production, and you get to pick the soundtrack that makes your hearts happy.

Real Wedding sandra & seth photography venue / catering flowers entertainment makeup beauty dress

Kalz Photography

Seven Ponds Farm

Simplicity In Mind

Upbeat Occasions

Natalie Dekermendjian

LC Beauty Co.

Ever After Bridal

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Registry

A universal registry that pulls all your preferred gifts together in one handy place is a convenience your guests will appreciate.

A bridal registry makes giftgiving easier for all your wedding guests, whether they’re dear friends or someone your mom insists be included. A universal registry that pulls all your preferred gifts together in one handy place is a convenience your guests will appreciate, and there are a lot of companies offering them these days. Here are some things to consider in choosing and making your registry:

• Check for flexibility. Some registries allow you to set up cash funds or group gifting options for big-ticket items like trips or home improvements; if you don’t want more “stuff,” this can be a great idea.

• Read the fine print. Some registries have hidden fees that can take a bite out of your funds, whether it’s a percentage of the total or high creditcard-processing fees on each contribution. Some charge a one-time fee, while others are subscription-based.

• Registries are mostly advertiser-supported; some keep the ads down to a dull roar, while others can be downright annoying and spoil the fun of the shopping experience. Get a look at a typical page from the registry you’re considering.

• Make sure your registry offers a simple shipping process.

• Feel free to set up your registry as soon as you get engaged! Do it together and have fun with it; it’s a great way to ease into weddingplanning mode.

• Be sure to offer something for every budget. Registries that offer group fund options are handy that way, but make sure you do include a few things in the $25 range.

• Don’t include your wedding registry on the invitations. It’s fine to put it on the wedding website, and people throwing showers or other pre-wedding shindigs can certainly include it on the invites to their events.

• In the months leading up to your wedding, keep on top of the availability of registry items. When something gets purchased or goes out of stock, come up with another option in the same price range, so guests shopping later on will have plenty of choices.

• Leave your registry available for at least a month or two after your wedding so that even folks who missed it can send a belated token of their affection.

• Don’t forget the thank-you cards!

ej bonbons & confections

Woodstock, ejchocolates.com

Available year round, our customizable box of assorted chocolate bonbons is the best special-occasion favor. Enjoy each piece one by one and find your favorites along the way. From weddings and baby showers to corporate presents and welcome bags, our customizable two-, four-, five-, and 12-piece boxes of handmade and painted chocolate bonbons are the perfect gift for your next event.

Gather Catskills

Delaware County, gathercatskills.com

Experience the Perfect. Find the wedding destination of your dreams in Delaware County, New York. The easy romance and natural beauty of the Great Western Catskills will entrance couples seeking the perfect destination for a country wedding. Whether you are considering a historic barn wedding, a streamside ceremony, or a vintage chic country farmhouse reception, Delaware County offers opportunities for weddings of all shapes and sizes.

Gilded Carriage

Woodstock, 845-679-2607, gildedcarriage.com

Wedding Registry ~ a personal approach. We invite you to hand-pick items for your table, kitchen & home. We will guide you through many choices to find your favorite things and reward you with gifts for registering. Gift wrapping, local delivery, and shipping for these fine brands: Aarke, April Cornell, Bodum, Casafina, Chemex, Cuisinart, Field Company, Peugeot, Le Jacquard Français, Le Creuset, Sodastream, Vietri, Wüsthof & Kingsley Bate.

herzog’s home center

Kingston, 845-338-6300, herzogs.com hudson valley wine & food fest

Herzog’s gift department is truly one of a kind. Whether you’re shopping for a wedding, engagement, bridal shower, or bridesmaid party, you will be pleasantly surprised by their selection. Offerings include an exceptional selection of home décor pieces, tabletop and cookware, jewelry, and local handcrafted gifts. The best part is that they will take care of the gift wrapping, free of charge.

Dutchess Fairgrounds, hudsonvalleywinefest.com

September 9th & 10th with VIP packages for bachelorette parties. Celebrating our 23rd year! The Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival celebrates the bounty of wine, food, and fun. Always the weekend after Labor Day! Browse hundreds of New York Wineries, Cideries, Distilleries, Craft Beers, Food Trucks, and Gourmet Foods at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY the new york photobus

Tri-State, @NYPhotoBus, 845-303-2019, bookthephotobus.com stone ridge insurance

More than a mobile photo booth built inside a Classic VW, the NYPhotoBus will make your wedding unforgettable. It’s a conversation piece and micro venue where people can get in, have fun, and connect, all while getting photos printed on the spot + social media sharing. Also lighting, music, props, and, most importantly, a sensibility of how to create a good time for your guests. Indoor booths also available.

Stone Ridge, 845-687-2828, stoneridgeinsurance.net sullivan catskills

Since opening in 2009, Stone Ridge Insurance has taken pride in providing clients with outstanding service and a personalized experience every time. Owner Donald has grown into insurance education, and helps people understand why they pay what they pay, to know how to be treated, and to help them protect themselves if they ever need it. Donald is an invaluable resource to his community and is always happy to share his knowledge of the insurance industry.

Hudson Valley, 800-882-CATS, sullivancatskills.com williams lumber & home centers

Say “I do” in New York’s legendary Sullivan Catskills. We’ll help you throw an extraordinary event that will keep your guests talking long after the wedding. Choose a grand ballroom or the quiet confines of a boutique inn. Our outdoor scenery is perfect for warm-weather weddings—lakeside, riverside, or even at historic sites. And there are nearly two dozen wedding planners, caterers, florists, transportation companies, and more.

Hudson Valley, 845-876-9663, williamslumber.com

Give the perfect wedding gift and NAIL IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME with a Williams Lumber and Home Centers gift card. With seven locations and since 1946, Williams Lumber and Home Centers has been regularly recognized for the best service, quality, and price. Give the gift of home improvement from Williams Lumber and Home Centers!

who pays for what ?

The short answer to “Who pays for what?” is, “Who wants it to happen and can afford to cover it?”

So who’s picking up the tab?

There used to be hard and fast rules about divvying up wedding costs, but as with so many things, many of today’s couples could not care less about those. Instead, they are just letting common sense rule. The short answer to “Who pays for what?” is, “Who wants it to happen and can afford to cover it?” the mid-20th century, when the bride’s parents were considered host and hostess and automatically expected to pick up the tab.

This has led to a loosening of the guidelines that were in vogue in bride

Nowadays, with many couples marrying as established adults with careers and homes of their own, the answer is often, “Our party, our responsibility.” If you’re lucky enough to have parents who want to help, it’s a beautiful thing. And just in case you or they are interested, here are the customary guidelines.

Wedding flowers, gifts for your bridesmaids, the groom’s ring, and the groom’s gift.

bride’s family

Planning costs, wedding gown, venue, photography and videography, catering, decor, and music. Lodging and travel expenses for officiant and any bridesmaids who may be traveling from afar.

groom

Marriage license, officiant’s fee, bride’s wedding and engagement rings, bride’s gift, bride’s bouquet, wedding garb, gifts and boutonnieres for groom’s attendants, and honeymoon expenses.

groom’s family

Rehearsal dinner, lodging and travel costs for out-of-town groomsmen, flowers and boutonnieres for immediate family members. It’s often considered reasonable for the groom’s family to pick up the bar tab.