Vol. 7, No. 3
Fall 2010
your dream day! features 4 love notes 7 unique, fun workouts 8 cake love 11 love in bloom 17 creative spin on tradition 18 honeymoon heaven 20 marrying finances 22 creative recipe ideas 23 beautiful brunch
25 delicious & affordable 26 berry merry 27 fresh & fruity
wedding essentials 28 bride’s checklist 29 groom’s checklist 30 reception hall directory
on the cover Element Portraits by Beth, Photographer Libby Waterbury and David Hildahl
Weddings is a publication of
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A publication of The Courier, Waterloo-Cedar Falls
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Find CV Weddings Magazine on Facebook and cvweddings on Twitter.
Easy mealtimes
When you’re married, you’ll be fixing supper and entertaining, so the Crock-Pot slow cooker by Rival is the perfect tool to make mealtime easy. It comes with a digital timer, variable cooking settings and bonus recipe book. It automatically shifts to warm when cooking is done and holds up to 6 quarts, $79.99.
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Vol. 7 Issue 3 Publisher David A. Braton Weddings Editor Melody Parker (319) 291-1429 melody.parker@wcfcourier.com Graphic Designer Courtney Towlerton (319) 291-1457 courtney.towlerton@wcfcourier.com Weddings Advertising Sales Ami Hagen (319) 291-1474 ami.hagen@wcfcourier.com Weddings Advertising Sales & Online Sales Manager Sheila Kerns (319) 291-1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com Contributing Writer Amie Steffen (319) 291-1405 amie.steffen@wcfcourier.com Tina Hinz (319) 291-1484 tina.hinz@wcfcourier.com
Bold blending
KitchenAid’s Blender, $99, lets you express your creativity in five speeds. Intelli-Speed controls automatically adjust power to compensate for thicker mixtures. The scratch-, stain- and shatter-resistant polycarbonate jar holds 56 ounces — and that’s a lot! It can crush, puree, chop and blend.
Contributing Photographers Rick Chase Brandon Pollock Matthew Putney Rick Tibbott
Make mine a margarita! Weddings is published quarterly by Courier Communications. Weddings may be contacted at: 501 Commercial St. P.O. Box 540 Waterloo, IA 50704 Copyright, Weddings, 2010 All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.
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Liven up your table settings with the Pfaltzgraff Margarita collection. Scalloped borders and rims accented with hand-painted pastel blooms highlight the pattern on earthenware. It’s oven, microwave and dishwasher-proof. A 16-piece dinnerware set, service for four, includes dinner plate, salad plate, soup/cereal bowl and coffee mug, $79.
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Color your world
Martha Stewart’s rainbow assortment of colorful bowls comes in different sizes to meet your needs. The bowls are durable and dishwasher safe and stack for easy storage. Set of 6, $34.99.
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e’s slipped the engagement ring on your finger. You’ve started making plans. Don’t forget to choose your bridal registries. It’s the best way to let friends and family know what gifts to give. You’re a couple, so visit stores together. Traditional registeries include china and crystal, but you can also include household items, small appliances, bed and bath linens, kitchen stuff, DVD and board games and whatever else you need. LoveNotes has compiled to a list of cool things that will help make your house a home. •
For entertaining
PlaceTiles are stylish erasable ceramic accent labels, perfect as table place cards for guests or as a descriptive accessory for each dish being served. Comes in a variety of styles such as Medallion, Fleur-di-Lis, Vine, Shell and more. Retails for $35 for a set of 6, www.placetile.com.
Get your caffeine fix
Brew a cup of creamy cappucino from espresso grounds with the Italian-designed Bialetti 2-cup Mukka Express Stovetop Cappuccino Maker. The polished aluminum body is stove-top safe, has a heat-free handle and safety pressure release value, and makes two cups in four minutes, $89.99. WEDDINGS Fall 2010
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Go crazy
Crazylibellule and the Poppies is a cult Parisian perfumer known for its addicting scent solids encased in lipstick-like tubes. Crazy Sticks are easy to apply and layer and come in a wide range of scents. So many that you can change your scent to match your outfit, $16. Flowerbomb
SWAK lipcolor
A floral explosion offers evocative notes from a secret garden: Sambac jasmine, centifolia rose, cattleya orchid and “Ballerina” Freesia bloom on a base of Patchouli. From Viktor & Rolf, it comes as perfume, body lotion and bath products, $22 to $100.
Dior Rouge’s Formula has stay-on-power, shine and great color to last for hours and through the wedding kiss and cheek bussing that will go on during your big day. It moisturizes and re-countours and the Color Reveal Complex is a light amplifier contained in the formula to provide all shades with unrivaled radiance making them look fresh, bright and pure, $29.
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HEALTH CENTER
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Find unique, fun ways to work out, get in shape Text & Image | ARA Content
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ne of the toughest challenges to losing weight and staying fit is boredom. Jogging for hours on a treadmill, walking around the same neighborhood blocks, repeating a fitness video for the 100th time and even following a planned weight lifting routine get old really quickly. Experts usually recommend you vary your workout routines to keep the boredom at bay. Here are some unique tips to get fit: — Train your muscles while you’re doing something else like working at your desk. Find an exercise ball or yoga ball that you can bounce on while you’re typing on your keyboard or talking on the phone at work. Bouncing up and down allows you to burn some energy, while also training your core muscles, forcing you to sit straighter. By the end of the work day, you can burn a lot more calories than you would just slouching in a chair. And since your brain is already occupied with work assignments, you won’t have the opportunity to become bored with the exercise. — Put on some music and get your hips and ribs swinging while using weighted hula hoops. Sports Hoop has several dif-
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ferent styles of weighted hoops to help you build strength around your core, arms and shoulders. Plus hula hooping is excellent cardiovascular exercise that helps you to correct your posture and alignment. Challenge yourself to using different areas of the body — not just for the mental stimulation, but also to target different muscles. — Plan a fun event that includes movement like walking, bike riding, inline skating or any other form of foot transportation. — Sign up for classes in an unusual or adventure sport. Think about trying rock climbing to work the hand, arm and leg muscles. Or splash into different bodies of water while snorkeling or scuba diving. Consider signing up for a different style of dance class, like belly dancing or even square dancing. If you determine that you don’t enjoy whatever sport or class it is that you’re trying, switch to a new one, just to keep things interesting. You’re more likely to be successful, lose weight and maintain a physically fit body if you enjoy the workout programs you’re doing. So get creative, try some of these ideas and tackle the challenge to be healthy. •
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Cakelove
Brides are the boss when it comes to choosing wedding cake design Text | Melody Parker Images | Element Portraits By Beth, Infinite Image Design & Catchlight Imaging
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our wedding cake is the most dough you’ll probably ever spend on dessert. It is the star of your reception, the focal point, the centerpiece, and quite possibly, a work of art. Today’s wedding cakes run the gamut from simple to splendid, and each one is as individual as the bride herself. The Knot.com points to seven top trends for summer and fall weddings: 1. Graphic sugar appliques — More abstract designs that burst from the cake, paisley, ruffles, lace cut-outs and star bursts. 2. Creative “stamped” patterns — A one-dimensional look that is “stamped” on the cake with edible dye and a paint brush and stamp to make the pattern. 3. Chandelier motifs — Chandelier accents on wedding cake tiers made with edible, printable “paper and ink” as a unique trim. 4. Fabric-inspired texture — Allover patterns that look like lace or eyelet or inspired by the bride’s dress design. 5. Retro accents and colors — Interpreting trends from the early to mid-20th century, such as funky ’50s looks or 1920s pink and gold-toned frosting and flapper-esque accents such as edible beads and sugar-painted feathers.
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6. Cake buffets — A trio of coordinating cakes for the cake table, varying design from cake to cake. 7. Middle tier treatments — Clustering flowers or moving cake topper to the middle tier for a new look.
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The area’s top cake bakers say brides are incorporating some of the trends, but most are requesting cakes that are elegant and sophisticated above those with kitsch. “They don’t want a lot of decoration but they want multiple tiers. I’m doing some five- and six-tiered cakes. I’m doing one six-tier cake with fondant drapes. Others will have fondant scrolls on the sides and one with different sizes of white polka dots. Two or three cakes will have random pearls all over the cake. Basically, the brides don’t want anything that is too showy or dramatic,” said George Fowler of Cakes by George in Tama. Isabel Bayer of Cakes by Isabel describes the style as “more romantic.” Brides are asking for sugar lace on cakes that duplicates the lace on their wedding gown, fondant cakes with metallic or boldly colored luster dust, jewels, embroidered designs and damask patterns. “Sugar flowers are popular, which are truly keepsakes you can save for many years to come,” she noted. Cakes encrusted with sparkling crystal sugar and pearls and gum paste flowers, simple lines and damask patterns are among the requests heard by Kathy Griese of Delicious Designs. She doesn’t
work in fondant, except for dots, swirls and other decorations, but has a method of making butter cream icing look like fondant. “A wedding cake needs to taste good. Guests won’t remember exactly what the cake looked like after a wedding, but they’ll remember if it tasted bad or good,” she said. Sharon King of Johnson’s Bakery is happy that brides feel they can be themselves. “There used to be so many rules about how a wedding cake should look, but now couples can show some of their personality and interests. I did a Chicago Cubs cake for one couple that was really fun. Brides come in carrying little folders and notebooks with all their ideas and they’re probably more creative now than brides used to be.” She’s doing stacked wedding cakes with rounded edges. “Pedestals are out, but if someone wants a pedestal between layers, the middle layer is stuffed full of flowers or other decoration. Flowers are not cascading over the cakes, either, but are in little groupings on the cake.” At Hy-Vee Logan Avenue, cake baker Karris Mattox said brides often ask for a simple cake with elegant embellishments, a monochromatic look or lots of texture. “I’ve done lots of beadwork that mimics the wedding gown. I’m comfortable doing fondant work, too, and I like it because you can really create structure and clean lines. A lot of people don’t like the flavor of it, though. It tastes like stale Lucky Charms marshmallows.” Speaking of flavors — that’s where brides are really cutting loose. Chocolate
Here are tips on cake basics: 1. When you reserve your reception site, check on the cake policy. 2. Make hiring a baker a priority. Many bakers’ calendars fill up many months in advance. 3. Price is determined per slice and according to how difficult or time-consuming a design can be to pull off, as well as size. Building a wedding cake is an engineering feat, and the more elaborate or intricate the design and decorations, the more it is likely to cost. Gumpaste or sugarpaste flowers, marzipan fruits, molded flowers and other decorations may increase the price, too. The price will also include the delivery fee for transporting the cake to your reception site. Most bakers want to do this themselves because they’ll have last-minute details or touch-ups to add. Be prepared to pay a deposit. 4. Determine who will supply cake plates and forks. Caterers may offer this, but cake decorators won’t. 5. Taste-testing is a common practice for bakers. If you can’t decide among flavors, consider a different flavor for every tier. Be real. Show your cake baker magazine clippings and other inspirations, but give them room to show off their own creative flair. Many cakes are dummies — fake cakes — meant to be photographed, not consumed. 7. Make sure the cake will last. Fondant lasts longer than buttercream frosting when sitting out for any length of time. However, it’s hard to cut and some people don’t like the flavor of it.
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Simple, elegant and monochromatic are among brides’ desires for cakes, such as this one created by Hy-Vee’s Karris Mattox. wcfcourier.com/app/wedding
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cakelove with raspberry or chocolate almond mousse, peach with peach filling, lemon with cream cheese, Kahlua chocolate, Amaretto, raspberry royale, strawberry swirl, red velvet, tequila rose, champagne, white almond, chocolate almond, pumpkin ... the list goes on of the wedding cake flavors favored by area brides. “Italian cream has been a hot flavor, and I have a bride who wants cheesecakes,” said Michelle Church of New Hartford’s Delicious Desserts by Michelle. As for style, she points to modern intepretations of old-school traditions. “I’m surprised to see cupcakes making a big resurgence. People don’t want to worry about cutting cakes. There’s a smaller cake for the couple to cut and cupcakes for the guests. I’m doing an August wedding at Hickory Hills that will have cupcakes displayed on different types of glass pedestals, decorated with sugar paste roses.” Round or square, brides want their tiers, usually three. They’re also choosing to order sheetcakes to slice and serve hoards of guests. Bakers are making double-layer sheet cakes so it looks the same as a slice of wedding cake on the plate. •
stop by our booth at Wedding extravaganza on sunday, January 17th at the 5 sullivan brothers Convention Center!
Contact the Sales Office 319-277-2239 ext 324
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Romance, elegance — and a little bling — are what’s hot in flowers Text | Melody Parker Images | Element Portratis by Beth, Studio D Photograpy, Catchlight Imaging, McKenna McNelly Photography & Infinite Image Design
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omance is back in flowers, but with a modern edge. Flowers are a symbol of “love in bloom,” and that’s the message a happy couple wants to send loud and clear. Flowers also set the tone for a wedding, carrying out the color scheme or creating an impression. “Everything old is new again,” said Fran Newsom at Design Studio. “I’m seeing more romance and drama. I have a few brides asking for cascading bouquets instead of the round, tied ones. The hand-tied bouquets have been around for a while, and brides are
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always looking for something that’s different and special.” Cascade bouquets are traditional, but today’s cascade has a more contemporary look by using all one or two kinds of flowers or all one color or choosing exotic flowers like orchid, calla lilies and anthruriums. “There’s also a crescent bouquet style that if the bride is a little hippier, it cuts her in half. It still has the flow she wants but it makes her look thinner. It’s a trick of the eye,” said Donna Spoelstra at Petersen & Tietz Florists and Greenhouses. Bling is also big for bouquets, she noted. Attaching brooches, charms and other items to the bouquet is becoming commonplace. “But now it’s a rhinestone sparkling in the center of a gerbera daisy or stephanotis. Especially
if it’s an all-white wedding, putting a different colored rhinestone in the center of the flower brings a touch of color.” Hand-tied remains the most popular bride’s bouquet style, but Mark Nading’s brides are asking for a more natural look with bouquets and wedding and reception floral arrangements. “They’re wanting simpler and more elegant, not huge and gaudy. We’re doing some natural garden flowers as fillers, such as irises, lisianthus, different types of stock and natural daisies, as well as gerbera daisies in bright colors,” said Nading at Hudson Florals. Fun and funky combinations are popping up, too. Shades of bright raspberry pink, lime green, yellow and orange are the go-to colors for summer and fall weddings. “I”ve also had weddings that
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Sunflowers are a fall favorite flower, but roses and calla lilies are also popular choices, particularly woven into bouquets and arrangements. Bling in the form of a brooch or rhinestone also is trendy.
are more simple, such as all-white or something that ties in natural greens,” noted Casey Allen at HyVee Crossroads Floral Shop. “We’ve also been doing a lot of things with orchids — dendrobrium or spray orchids, and lots of gerber daisies because those come in so many colors.” The sophisticated calla lily also comes in 25 or so colors. “One of the hottest is eggplant, a really dark purple, and a hot pink, as well as some of the mangos. Those sound like fall colors but brides are using those now, too,” said Nading. Roses remain a classic favorite, tied in with other blooms or as allone color rose bouquets. There are also two-tone colors for the contemporary bride and cabbage-style roses for an old-fashioned appeal. Allen said her shop has been using lots of hydrangeas and peonies in spring wedding arrangements. “Hydrangeas are a nice big flower for arrangements, and spring is good for peonies. Some flowers just don’t hold up as well in the heat. We let brides know that. Once a flower like a peony is cut, it’s hard to control the
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wilt once it’s out of water. The heat takes a toll.” Roses remain a classic favorite. “We’ve tied in roses with other flowers or we’ve seen all-white or allcream roses, some hot pinks and bright two-tone colors,” said Allen. Typically, a florist can get virtually any type of flower at most times of the year, but out-of-season flowers may cost quite a bit more. “We work within their budget to provide the flowers they’ve seen in magazines, on TV or the Internet. We want to make them feel good for their particular day and try to get them what they want. It’s a special time in their lives and we want it to be beautiful,” explained Nading. To save money, some brides are working in realistic silk or latex flowers into arrangements. “A bride should take advantage of a florist’s expertise. If they want to be unique, they can have something designed particularly for them. Nine times out of 10, if you let a designer create something individual for you, it will be something far better than what you’ve seen in a photo,” said Newsom. •
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wedding flower glossary There’s a flower to suit every bride, but sometimes it’s hard to remember all their names. This glossary may be helpful. We’ve also included the season of availability and average cost. These are favorite flowers for weddings; many more flowers are available from your local florist. •
Alstroemeria Available year-round. White, orange, yellow, lavender, red, purple, flecked. Inexpensive.
Dahlia Pom poms to dinner plate sizes. Available in summer to fall. Modest to moderate cost.
Bouvardia Faintly-scented, small blooms. Available year-round in peach, pink, red and white. Moderate cost.
Calla lilies Sophisticated and elegant, callas come in a range of colors. Moderate to expensive.
Camellia Sweetly fragrant, available white, red, pink and cream. Moderate cost.
Carnation Carnations have a spicy fragrance. Modest cost.
Daisy Innocent and simple. Available summer to fall. Modest cost.
Freesia Fragrant blooms available year-round, numerous colors. Moderate cost.
Gardenia Heavy fragrance and waxy-looking creamy-white petals. Available year round. Expensive.
Gerbera Daisy An “it” flowers of the moment; a virtual paint box of colors. Available year-round. Moderate cost.
Lisianthus A peppery scent and multiple blooms on one stem. Moderate cost.
Lilies “Stargazers” and “Casa Blancas” are popular choices. Moderate to expensive.
Orchid Types includes cymbidium, dendrobium, oncidium, vandas and phalaenopsis. Some are fragrant. Moderate to expensive cost. Available year-round.
Peony Lush and fragrant, peonies are fragile. Spring is the best season. Expensive.
Roses There are so many colors, shapes and sizes of roses; some are fragrant, some are not. Moderate to expensive cost.
Stephanotis Perfumed tubular, star-shaped white flowers. Modest to moderate cost.
Hydrangea Chrysanthemum Cool or warm colors and many styles of flowers. Modest cost.
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Known for the size of the flower head; colors that range from pink to blue. Peak sesaon is July through fall. Moderate to expensive.
Stock Old-fashioned, sweetly fragrant. Moderate cost.
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Popular bouquet styles Beidermeier: Flowers of the same type are arranged in a circular pattern. Each ring will represent one type of flower. Cascade: A waterfall of blooms and greenery in a hand-held base. Classic hand-tied: A large bunch of blooms wired or hand-tied, can be in a bouquet holder. Freeform/contemporary: A freeform bouquet does not have a specific or defined shape. Arm:The arm bouquet is also referred to as presentation bouquet or pageant bouquet. Flowers suitable for this bridal bouquet type often have long stems, like calla lilies, orchids and also long-stemmed roses. The flowers are left at its natural state, with a big ribbon tied to bundle them together. The way is to carry it is to cradle it on your arm, at the inner of your elbow. A slim and slender wedding gown would go best with this type of bridal bouquet. Pomander: Instead of carrying a bridal bouquet, you can also carry a pomander. A pomander is a ball of flowers carried by a ribbon attach to it.
Hand-tied is still the hands-down choice for bridal bouquets, but there are numerous options, such as the arm bouquet.
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for him: boutonnieres 1. Boutonnieres can contrast with or complement the color of the groom’s outfit and coordinate with the chosen wedding colors. 2. Flowers can be chosen from those in the bride’s bouquet. 3. Not flower guys? Use smaller blooms or chose a sprig of greenery, berries, herbs, etc. 4. Wear boutonnieres on the outside of the button hole of the left lapel, not in it. 5. Fasten with a pearl-headed pin from the back of the lapel or use a decorative pin to attach from the front.
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A single rose or carnation is passe. Grooms are sporting interesting and creative flowers, foliage and berries on their lapels.
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Design and style tips offer a creative spin on an old wedding tradition Text | ARA Content Image | Getty Images
“Something old, something new; Something borrowed, something blue. And a silver sixpence in her shoe.” An enduring Victorian tradition steeped in superstitious symbolism, the verse containing a series of old, new, borrowed and blue good luck tokens for the bride dates back centuries in England. John C. Franke, style expert and faculty member at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, offers a creative spin on the age-old tradition for the bride-to-be in 2010. Something old: Continuity with the bride’s family and the past According to Franke, trends suggest a rising popularity in vintage gowns. “A 1960s-era gown will not only allow a bride to check something “old” off her list, but may also offer affordability and superior workmanship,” says Franke who recommends vintage shops as well as eBay to begin the search. “To make her purchase even more meaningful, a bride might consider purchasing a dress from one of many organizations who recycle wedding gowns for charitable fundraising.” For another possibility to represent something “old,” Franke suggests implementing a table of wedding photographs collected from family and friends attending the reception. The photos will honor the marriages of couples close to the bride and groom as well as provide a wonderful center for conversation. Something new: Optimism and hope for the bride’s life ahead “Renewable is the new ‘new,’” says Franke. For a fresh approach to some-
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thing new, Franke suggests environmentally responsible decisions such as selecting potted perennials for centerpieces. “Potted wildflowers will create a vibrant setting for the reception and can later be planted in the garden at the newlywed’s home.” Franke also suggests seed satchels as favors to serve as a long-living connection to the wedding. Even guests can get into the game. “If you’re invited to a wedding this year, consider presenting the couple with a gift that offers a new spin on traditional gift options.” Franke suggests antiques carefully selected for the couple or aluminum serving pieces. Something borrowed: A reminder that the bride can still depend on friends and family Traditionally, a bride can borrow anything from her best friend’s punch bowl to her grandmother’s pearls, but Franke suggests fulfilling the adage by creating a buzz. “Why not borrow an antique car and create a dramatic exit from your wedding?” Franke asks. Another emerging trend is the borrowing of the cake knife from one bride to another within a family. Starting a tradition now of passing along your cake
knife or other wedding essentials is not only cost-saving, but also creates a legacy that future generations will treasure. Something blue: A color suggesting purity and fidelity as evidenced in the 19th-century phrase “Marry in blue, lover be true.” Building blues into the wedding color scheme is an option for completing your old, new, borrowed and blue checklist, and at the same time, developing a color scheme for your reception. “Think like a graphic designer,” says Franke. “Consider your wedding colors as a controlled palette.” Franke encourages the bride to visit a paint store or check a Pantone system and define a series of colors, never more than three. Once selected, the bride can keep the color chips with her throughout the planning period so that the exact colors are always available when decisions are made about bridesmaids’ gowns, table linens, floral arrangements and other decorative elements. According to Franke, blues are an elegant choice for any season. He suggests pairing royal blues with yellow for a classic summer wedding; blue and pink for spring; and icy blues with whites or silver for a winter wedding. •
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Honeymoon heaven Tips for planning the getaway of your dreams to unwind
Text | Amie Steffen Image | Shutterstock
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honeymoon? Now? With the recession in Iowa seemingly never-ending and employment scarce or stagnating, not to mention boom-time concerns like student loan payments, other mounting bills and paying for the wedding itself, it can be tempting to think you’ll skimp on your honeymoon — or forgo it altogether. Spending money that you don’t really have is definitely stressful. But a trip with your new partner, besides being a tradition of new couples, is a great way to destress, unwind and just get away from the daily, bill-paying grind. And there are deals to be had. Travel agents around the Cedar Valley — like Nikki Miner, honeymoon and destination wedding specialist at Humble Travel in Waterloo — know
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the best prices on all-inclusive packages, hotels and even which cities to fly out of when you go. “Depending on where they’re going, Moline and Des Moines have been the best in (flight) pricing lately,” said Miner. “For some reason, lately Moline’s been half the price of Cedar Rapids.” Everything is dependent on your own plan, where you’re going, when you’re leaving and what sort of resort you’re booking. But there are all-inclusive packages in tropical areas that can be had for $2,000 in Mexico, for example, estimated Miner. That includes flights, meals, drinks, etc., for both you and yours. Want upgrades — tours, boat rides, scuba lessons or the oceanfront suite? You could register for honeymoon options in your wedding registry, as couples are wont to do nowadays.
Or you could simply show up, recently married, and some all-inclusive resorts will provide automatic upgrades. “One of the honeymoon packages in the Riviera Maya (is where) you get private transfers, a room upgrade, fresh fruit basket upon arrival and a bottle of champagne or wine,” Miner said. Jamaica’s also a great place for the newly married, said Kari Finzen, a travel agent at The Travel Store. “We like to do (all inclusives) with honeymoons because they get little upgrades, like a half-hour in-room massage, benefits and free tours included,” Finzen said. And for the price-conscious (and who isn’t?), travelers are crossing the southern border. “Usually Mexico is going to be the best option,” Finzen said. “There’s just better rates, it’s easier to get to, more
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flights going out.” Beach blanket bingo If you’re thinking what most Cedar Valley couples are thinking, your honeymoon trip plan sounds like this: Sun. Sand. A cool drink in hand. Beach vacations have always been popular, but they seem to be even more so these days, said Kari Finzen, an agent at The Travel Store in Waterloo. That includes places like Ocho Rios or Negril in Jamaica, and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. “They have always been popular, but they’ve been picking up,” Finzen said. Also popular are the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Barbados and the Virgin Islands. Of course, what with the oil spill continuing (as of press time) in the Gulf of Mexico, travelers might be wise to pick a destination outside of the spill zone — Puerta Vallarta on the Pacific coast of Mexico, perhaps — or forget the beach altogether. Not everyone’s perfect vacation involves slathering sunscreen over exposed skin and napping by the waves.
A newly popular option is an eco-tour, where vacationers hike through lush rainforest or dense jungles, soaking up more flora and fauna than rays. It’s not popular with honeymoon couples yet — but if the beach isn’t your thing, you can still be in a tropical paradise. “I know Costa Rica has something like that,” said Miner. “You basically have your own Jeep, go from this resort to next, and you’re just going on your own.” Some couples like a cultural experience and don’t mind other climates. Finzen said one couple just booked a honeymoon to Greece, but both travel agents said it’s rare for honeymoons. “We get more (Europe) requests for anniversaries, where you’re going to multiple ports and you want to be busy, see the culture; whereas honeymoons are more tired, you just want to get away and do absolutely nothing,” Miner said. There’s no getting around it: Beach honeymoons are the way the Cedar Valley likes it. •
travel agents can steer couples Text | Amie Stefften So, you know about the oil spill. In “planning your honeymoon” speak, that translates to: Maybe don’t check out many Gulf Coast beaches this year for your special trip. There’s also been an official U.S. State Department travel alert recently advising against traveling to Jamaica, one of the biggest honeymoon destinations around. Some flights have been canceled as police and soldiers clash with defenders of a gang leader wanted in the United States, according to The Seattle Times, quoting the State Department. And travelers already inside the island nation are warned to keep an eye on the news before traveling outside their resorts or hotels. It’s not as if it’s the first time political unrest or disasters — be they natural or man-made — have made travelers wary. Outbreaks of viruses like H1N1 and the volcano eruption in Iceland are just two recent examples, say travel agents like Nikki Miner, a honeymoon and destination wedding specialist with Humble Travel in Waterloo.
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“We’re dealing with the volcano currently still erupting in Europe,” she said. And that’s one of the great things about travel agents in the battle between realperson agents vs. online honeymoon sites — like allabouthoneymoons.com, distinctivehoneymoons.com and exclusivelyhoneymoons.com — or vacation sites in general, like Travelocity, Hotwire and Priceline: Agents are immediately aware of travel restrictions, potential problems and rumors. Of course, people book online for the deals, the competition at their fingertips and the fact that they don’t have to get out of their bathrobe to book Bermuda. Nevertheless, Miner and other agents are prepared specifically for anything that could happen, so that they can immediately rebook, retool and otherwise save your honeymoon. And it’s not as if Jamaica’s the only place to be. “Most people here prefer Mexico, the Caribbean or the Bahamas, because it’s easy for them to get to and they can be on the beach by late afternoon,” Miner said. “And they can still fly out of Iowa.”
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marrying finances Communication is key for couples learning to manage their money Text | Tina Hinz Image | Courtesy
H
ow you tie the knot financially can mean the difference between wedded bliss and divorce court. Experts sum up the process: communication, communication and communication. “I can’t stress that more than anything,” said Karel Murray, a Waterloo resident, speaker and author. Money is based on values, and two people should be on the same page, said Travis Ravn, financial strategy strategist with Financial Architects in Cedar Falls. Legally, any debts are inherited when a couple marries. “You want to know what that whole picture looks like,” he said. Separate or joint bank accounts depend on the couple. Area bankers see a little of both. Budgeting styles — say, he’s a saver and she’s a spender — could weigh heavily on the decision. “I have always believed in co-mingling the funds entirely, and then you work jointly on your future,” Murray said. “You’re either in it, or you’re not in it.” “It’s pretty much all lumped together anyway,” Ravn added. “If one died or they got divorced, the other person’s going to get it all anyway.” Ravn has found those who coordinate finances together are more efficient. They know what the other is doing, keep their partner in check and learn to negotiate. But merging accounts can lead to problems, according Dave Deaver, president at First National Bank in Cedar Falls. “I’ve seen this where both individuals
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have a checkbook ... and all of a sudden somebody’s writing a check and not telling the other person,” he said. “Before long you’ve got an overdraft or something’s goofed up.” However, with electronic banking, each party can have a debit card drawing out of the same account, and automated teller machines or the Internet make checking balances and managing accounts easier. Regardless of their financial strategy,
couples should set up a savings account, whether that’s a joint account or two single ones, said Stacey Bentley, Cedar Valley market president for Community National Bank in Waterloo. Putting aside a portion of each paycheck will pay dividends later. Prenuptial agreements also are optional. Unless one party has a phenomenal income level to protect, Murray doesn’t feel the paperwork is necessary. “I think it’s really assuming the mar-
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riage is going to end quickly,” she said. “It already sets up that attitude that it’s easy to get out of really quick.” Those heading into a second marriage more likely will consider a reservation on assets, especially when children are involved. “We’re seeing more and more seniors getting married, and they’ve got either their inheritance or family money,” Murray said. “What you don’t want to do is possibly lose sight of what’s going to be directed where.” “I’m kind of comparing this even to my parents as they aged and had gotten their own rental properties and different things,” said Sue Armbrecht, market president at MidwestOne Bank in Cedar Falls. “There’s a lot of advice that comes from a tax person, and some of it is also an attorney for the legal advice.” Money is emotional and has the potential to destroy a family. “Money is the vein of all of our troubles, but unfortunately it’s a necessary evil to
get to what we want to do and support our families,” Murray said. “What are our goals financially and personally, and then how are we going to be able to work that out?” Annual financial statements identify outflows and inflows of income. Along with a budget, couples can begin working toward owning a home or starting a family. “It is a business decision, I guess, in a way, as you come together with things, and you have to agree upon things,” Armbrecht said. With the tight economy, many people are spending wisely, tightening their belts instead of letting dollars slide through their hands like water, Murray added. “I know what I can and can’t do,” Murray said. “I’m the one that controls all the bill paying in the house. We make sure that my husband takes care of all the retirement fund, and we talk about it once a month: How are we doing? Where is everything at?” •
be prepared: review financial situtations, insurance Text | Bridal News Network For couples embarking on a marital commitment, becoming engaged and planning their wedding is a truly exhilarating time. With all of the excitement and festivities, it is also important to be concerned with preparations of a more serious nature: insurance and financial preparation. It is no secret that many couples are marrying later in life. While the average age of marriage four decades ago was 20 for females and 22 for males, it is now five years older for both. Today’s couples are more educated, more established, and therefore have more complex financial and insurance needs. They are finding that insurance and financial preparation must go hand in hand with starting a new life together. Since the average length of an engagement is about 18 months, couples have ample time to consider such important dollar-and-cents details concerning their future. Insurance professionals suggest that couples review the following before-and-after wedding checklist: Pre-Wedding — Insure the engagement ring. Ask your agent whether your current renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy, carried by either or both parties, covers the loss or theft of the engagement ring. If not, additional coverage may be needed. — Review home or renter’s insurance coverage. This is a good time for you to review the combined value of your possessions to help you determine whether the assessed value of your total property is up-to-date. It is important that
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your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy provide a sufficient amount of protection for the increase in your belongings when you combine households. — Automobile coverage. Find out whether you qualify for discounts as a result of being married. Many find that being covered under one policy is less expensive. Check out possible safe-driver discounts as well as multi-line discounts, which often apply when you have more than one insurance product with a company. For instance, you may qualify for a discount by insuring your cars and residence with the same company. Post-wedding As a newlywed couple you should talk to an insurance agent or financial professional about your overall situation and as circumstances change in your life. Examples include: — Life insurance needs. Consider how to provide for each other and any additional dependents in the event of the unexpected death of either partner. — Retirement savings. Spouses should work jointly and with a financial professional to establish retirement savings tools that fit their needs, such as employer sponsored 401(k) plans, IRAs, and annuities. — College savings. While it may seem like eons before you both have children, it’s important to continue saving when they arrive — particularly for their education. Once you have children, consider setting up a Qualified Tuition Program, often referred to as Section “529 plans” to begin preparing for the cost of higher education.
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Grape Daiquiri A luscious way to enjoy an apertif. 1 cup green, red, or black seedless grapes 4 ounces white rum 3 ounces sweetened lime juice 3 cups ice Place all ingredients into the bowl of a blender and puree until blended and slushy, about 2 minutes. Serve in tall glasses. Makes 2 drinks.
creative ideas and recipes for entertaining
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beautiful brunch Put together a menu with crowdpleasing breakfast favorites Carmel Pecan Buns
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post-wedding breakfast or brunch is an elegant way to say “thank you” to your bridal party and family and friends who have come from near and far to share your joyous event. A brunch is also a great way to acknowledge your bridesmaids before the wedding or can provide the basis for a bridal or couple’s shower. Make it casual or formal, but make it a leisurely affair. Put together a menu that includes favorite breakfast fare and a few light lunch items and serve champagne, sparkling wines, punch, soft drinks and flavored teas. Set up the service as a buffet and let guests serve themselves. Don’t forget to dress up tables with linens and centerpieces. These recipes are easy to prepare in quantity by doubling or tripling recipes and are real crowd-pleasers. •
Breakfast Casserole This casserole combines all your favorite breakfast items in one dish. Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 28 minutes Yield: 6 servings Casserole ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter, softened 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated hash brown potatoes or 3 1/2 to 4 cups thawed, frozen hash brown potatoes 4 ounces (1 cup) cheddar cheese, shredded 4 ounces (1 cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded 6 eggs 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage 1/4 cup half & half Topping ingredients: 1 Roma tomato, seeded, chopped 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn Heat oven to 425 F. Brush butter over bottom and up sides of 8- or 9-inch square glass baking dish. Combine potatoes, 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, 1 egg, salt and pepper in medium bowl; mix well. Press potato mixture onto bottom and up sides of buttered dish. Bake 10 minutes. Meanwhile, crumble sausage into 10-inch nonstick skillet. Cook, stirring often, over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink. Using slotted spoon, place cooked sausage into potato crust. Combine remaining 5 eggs and half & half in medium bowl; beat with wire whisk until well mixed. Pour egg mixture over sausage. Bake for 15 to 19 minutes or until eggs are almost set. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses; continue baking for 3 to 4 minutes or until cheese is melted. Cut into squares; top each serving with chopped tomato and fresh basil.
Breakfast Casserole
Caramel Pecan Buns These buns are a sweet addition to a buffet table. Makes 5 servings Prep time: 5 minutes 1 can (17.5 ounces) Pillsbury Grands! refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup chopped pecans 1/4 cup packed brown sugar Bake cinnamon rolls as directed on package. Reserve icing. To caramelize pecans, melt butter in 10-inch skillet over
WEDDINGS Fall 2010
medium heat; add pecans. Cook, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until butter just starts to brown. Add brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and bubbles, about 2 minutes. Spoon over buns when they are hot out of the oven. Remove cover from icing; microwave on medium (50 percent power) 5 to 10 seconds or until thin enough to drizzle. Drizzle over warm buns. Tip: Pecans can burn easily and need to be closely watched as they cook.
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beautifulbrunch Orange Breakfast Scones
Brie Bites Pastry-wrapped Brie cheese is topped with raspberry preserves and pecans for a bite-sized appetizer. Preparation time: 20 minutes Chilling time: 30 minutes Baking time: 13 minutes Yield: 30 appetizers 1 (17 1/4-ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed 3 ounces Brie cheese, cut into 30 (1/2-inch) cubes 1/3 cup raspberry preserves 1/4 cup chopped pecans Heat oven to 400 F. Cut thawed puff pastry sheets with 2-inch round cookie cutter. Place 1-inch apart onto ungreased baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm (15 minutes). Cut halfway through pastry rounds using 1-inch round cookie cutter. Refrigerate until firm (15 minutes). Bake pastry rounds for 8 to 10 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Cool 10 minutes. Remove 1 inch pre-cut area of puffed top and half of soft center from each pastry round with tip of sharp knife. Place 1 cube cheese into each pastry round. Continue baking 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Remove from oven. Top each with 1/2 teaspoon preserves; sprinkle with pecans. Serve warm or at room temperature.
These scones are easy to make as there’s no kneading. They’re filled with a combination of sweet Mandarin oranges and dried cranberries. Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 28 minutes Yield: 8 scones 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 2 1/2 teaspoons freshly grated orange peel 1/3 cup butter 1/2 cup Mandarin orange segments, chopped 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries, chopped 1 cup sour cream 1 egg 2 tablespoons orange juice or Mandarin orange liquid 1 tablespoon sugar Heat oven to 400 F. Combine flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, baking powder and orange peel in large bowl. Cut in butter with pastry blender or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in Mandarin oranges and cranberries. Combine sour cream, egg and orange juice in small bowl; beat with wire whisk until smooth. Stir sour cream mixture into flour mixture until well mixed. (Mixture will be dry.) Spread into greased 9-inch round cake pan. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean and scone is lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pan. Cut into wedges.
Chicken & Cheese Wraps A Mexican meal all wrapped up in a tortilla. Preparation time: 20 minutes Microwaving time: 1 minutes Yield: 6 servings 1 cup cooked rice 3/4 cup salsa 1 (15 to 16-ounce) can black beans, rinsed, drained 1 (11-ounce) can whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained 1 cup cubed 1/2-inch cooked chicken 1 (8-ounce) package cheddar or monterey jack, cubed 1/2-inch 24
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6 (10-inch) flour tortillas, warmed Salsa, if desired Stir together all ingredients except tortillas in large bowl. Place about 1 cup filling in center of each warmed tortilla. Fold two opposite edges of tortilla toward center over filling. Roll up open end of tortilla toward opposite edge. Place on microwave-safe plate, seam-side down. Microwave 2 tortillas on MEDIUM-HIGH (70 percent) power, turning or rearranging after half the time, until heated through (1 to 2 minutes). Repeat with remaining tortillas. Serve with salsa, if desired.
Fall 2010 WEDDINGS
Delicious, affordable ways to celebrate betrothed couples
Bridal shower To create an elegant and festive party atmosphere, decorate the event space with fresh flowers and set aside a table where gifts can be presented. A buffet table lets guests serve themselves and also provides a tableau for food and wine selections to be artfully dis-
Serves 4 Prep time: 30 minutes 1 teaspoon onion powder 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1/2 cup Big House Red 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 12 3-inch dinner rolls Condiments Caramelized onions (sauté in olive
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played. Arrange an inviting layout of fresh seasonal salads and bite-sized desserts, with a delectable angel hair pasta dish as the centerpiece. Pair with Angel Juice Pinot Grigio, quintessentially Californian with delicate peach notes and a refreshing finish. Couples’ shower A couples’ shower is the ideal way to informally celebrate the upcoming marriage. Commonly known as a Jack and Jill party, the event can be a luncheon, a laid-back barbecue or a party at a local park. A couples’ shower is a prime opportunity for everyone to take a break and enjoy spending time together. Mini-burgers, or gourmet sliders, have universal appeal and offer up a new twist on an old favorite. Paired with the vibrant Big House Red, a California blend bursting with ripe red fruits, they will easily satisfy guests. •
oil, very slowly, about 20 minutes) 1/2 cup loosely packed watercress 1/2 cup thinly shredded radicchio In medium bowl, combine onion powder, garlic, wine, beef, salt and pepper. Shape into twelve 1/2-inchthick patties. Grill until browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Grill dinner rolls until slightly toasted. On bottom of each roll, place caramelized onions, patty, watercress and radicchio. Top with roll top.
Sizzling Mini-Sliders
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ridal and couples’ showers don’t have to break the bank. Here are some stylish, budget-friendly food and wine options that allow happy couples to have their (cup)cake and eat it too! — Choosing fresh and flavorful wines that present incredible value for the price but don’t compromise a smidge on quality. —Serving food in smaller portions, a restaurant trend, is a hit for guests and a boon for the budget.
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Berrymerry B Impressive fruit pies, tarts for sweetheart gatherings Lemon Raspberry Pie
erry season means colors, tastes and aromas that are sure to please. With a variety of gorgeous fresh fruits at your fingertips, why not whip up a fabulous fruit pie or tart for a couple’s backyard gathering to celebrate your nuptials. Couples planning small, intimate weddings will find these recipes easy to make and serve as additional sweet treats or in place of the traditional wedding cake. To save time in the kitchen, start with Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts for a flaky, tender base. •
Fresh Berry Cream Tart
Lemon Raspberry Pie 8 servings Prep time: 45 minutes Start to finish: 3 hours 45 minutes Crust 1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust (from 14.1ounce box), softened as directed on box 1 teaspoon flour 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans Filling 1/2 cup sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/2 cup water 2 tablespoons margarine or butter 1 egg yolk, beaten 1/4 to 1/3 cup lemon juice Topping 2 3-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract 1 8-ounce carton frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 tablespoon milk 3 cups fresh raspberries or frozen raspberries without syrup, thawed, dried on paper towels Mint sprigs, if desired
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Heat oven to 450 F. Prepare crust according to package directions for unfilled one-crust pie using 9-inch pie pan. Press pecans into bottom of pie crust-lined pan. Generously prick crust with fork. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely. In small saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch; blend well. Stir in water, margarine and egg yolk. Cook over medium heat until mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. Boil 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice. Pour into cooled crust. Refrigerate 1 hour. In small bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar and lemon extract until smooth. Beat in whipped topping at low speed until well blended. Add milk; mix until smooth and of spreading consistency. Spread thin layer of topping mixture around edge of crust. Reserve 4 raspberries for garnish. Arrange remaining raspberries over top of filling. Spread remaining topping over raspberries. Garnish with mint sprigs and reserved raspberries. Refrigerate 2 hours before serving. Store in refrigerator.
8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Start to finish: 2 hours 55 minutes Crust 1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust (from 14.1ounce box), softened as directed on box Filling 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup sugar 1 tablespoon orange-flavored liqueur or orange juice 4 cups assorted fresh whole berries (small strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries) 1/3 cup red currant jelly, melted Heat oven to 450 F. Prepare pie crust as directed on package for one-crust baked shell using 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely. In small bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar and liqueur; beat until smooth and well blended. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly in cooled baked shell. Top with berries; brush berries with melted jelly to glaze. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Store in refrigerator.
Fresh Berry Cream Tart
Fall 2010 WEDDINGS
fresh and fruity Beverages and punches — perfect for brunches, bridal and couples’ showers
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Additional Wedding Services:
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Lemonade Punch A refreshing and sparkling punch. 1 (6 ounce) can frozen pink lemonade concentrate 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries 2 (6 ounce) cans frozen pink lemonade concentrate 1 (2 liter) bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage 1 (750 milliliter) bottle red wine 1 orange, sliced 1 lemon, sliced
Watermelon Cherry Mojito Put your mixologist to work making these mojitos to order. 3 fresh mint sprigs, chopped 1/4 cup watermelon puree 1 teaspoons cherry syrup 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 oz light rum Chilled sparkling water 1 sugar cane stirrer 1 lime wedge Using a fork, press mint with the back of a fork to coat the inside of the glass and leave it in the glass. Add the watermelon puree, cherry syrup, lime juice and rum. Stir well. Top with ice. Top-off the glass with sparkling water or club soda. Add the sugar cane stirrer and lime wedge to the glass and serve. Serves 1.
In a pitcher, mix together 1 can lemonade with 1 can of water. Pour mixture into an ice cube tray, and place a cherry in each cube. Freeze until solid. In a punch bowl, combine 2 cans lemonade concentrate, lemon-lime soda and red wine. Stir in lemonade ice cubes, and garnish with maraschino cherries, orange slices and lemon slices.
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Watermelon Green Tea Punch A blend of watermelon, green tea and grape juice; add chardonnay for the perfect party punch. 8 cups watermelon puree 8 cups unsweetened green tea, chilled 4 cups purple grape juice 1 cup cherry juice (optional) 2 liter bottle of ginger ale or 2 bottles Chardonnay Blend ingredients together in a large beverage container and chill. Serve over ice. Makes 36 servings.
Sparkling Punch A light and refreshing non-alcoholic punch. 2 (750 milliliter) bottles sparkling apple cider 1 liter carbonated water 3 large oranges 2 lemons 1 (6 ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate 1 tablespoon white sugar 2 trays ice cubes
Thinly slice lemons and oranges and place in a large punch bowl. Pour in thawed lemonade. Gently stir in seltzer water and sparkling apple cider. Add sugar to taste. Add large block of ice. Makes 20 servings.
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the bride’s checklist ❑ Announce your engagement. ❑ Decide on wedding details, such as style, time of day and location. ❑ Pick a date. Do this as soon as possible so bridal party and family members can make plans and reservations can be made for wedding location, rehearsal and reception locations, etc. ❑ Set a budget. ❑ Select the bridal party. ❑ Choose your colors. Your flowers, attire, linens and cake will reflect your choice. ❑ Choose and order the bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ gowns and accessories. ❑ Start planning the honeymoon with groom. ❑ Begin your bridal registry. ❑ Select the caterer, photographer, florist and musicians. ❑ Start planning the reception. Reserve a hall, hotel or facility. ❑ Schedule premarital counseling. Some churches require this for a marriage. ❑ Choose and order the wedding rings. ❑ Order the wedding cake. ❑ Select and order the invitations. THREE MONTHS
❑ Complete the guest list. ❑ Plan to have both mothers select their dresses. It’s customary for the groom’s mother to wait until the bride’s mother has selected her dress. ❑ Finalize reception plans. ❑ If reservations haven’t been made for the honeymoon, do it now. ❑ Confirm dates and times with the florist, caterer, photographer, musicians and church. ❑ Discuss transportation to and from the wedding and reception sites. ❑ Choose and order the tuxes. ❑ Schedule bridesmaids’ dresses for fittings. ❑ Choose and dye shoes if necessary.
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❑ Record gifts received and send thank-you notes as they arrive. ❑ Plan the rehearsal and dinner. This is the responsibility of the groom and his family, but all should work together on it. ❑ Purchase gifts for the bridal party. Brides often buy inexpensive earrings or necklaces for the bridesmaids to wear at the wedding. Popular choices for groomsmen are money clips, key chains or ball caps. ❑ Schedule final fittings for bride and bridesmaids. ❑ Schedule appointments at beauty salons for attendants, if needed. ❑ Hold the bridesmaids’ luncheon. ❑ Purchase a guest book and decide where it will go, either at the wedding or reception. TWO WEEKS
❑ Finalize wedding day transportation. ❑ Arrange to have names changed on driver’s license, Social Security card, etc. ONE WEEK
TWO MONTHS
❑ Mail the invitations. ❑ Get the marriage license. ❑ Finalize the honeymoon plans.
❑ Start packing for the honeymoon. ❑ Finalize the number of guests with caterer if not already done. ❑ Plan seating arrangements for guests. ❑ Have a hairdresser practice fixing your hair. You may want to practice applying your makeup. ❑ Make sure wedding rings are picked up and fit.
ONE MONTH
WEDDING DAY
❑ Reserve accommodations for the groom.
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❑ Relax and enjoy your very special day.
✂ Cut out and use
SIX TO 12 MONTHS
Fall 2010 WEDDINGS
Waterloo Store -Moved
to Crossroads Center
Element Portraits By Beth
groom’s
checklist
Cedar Falls Store -4th & Washington
Three months before
❑ Decide what you and your groomsmen will wear. Go tux shopping or reserve rentals for you and your posse. One month before
❑ If you’re buying a tux, make sure alterations are finished and go in for a final fitting. If the tux still doesn’t fit quite right, the shop will still have time to make final alterations. One week before
❑ Get a haircut! ❑ Get a manicure (no polish — just clean, buffed nails). ❑ Buy new boxers for the big day. Surprise your bride with something stylish.
w w w.m i l r o y s t u x e d o s . c o m
One day before
❑ If you’re renting, pick up your tux. Make sure your groomsmen, your father and the ring bearer get their tuxes, too. ❑ If you’re renting or buying, double check that all the elements are included in the correct size: jacket, trousers, shirt, tie, vest or cummerbund, shoes, cuff links and dress socks. ❑ If you will be dressing somewhere other than at home, pack up your outfit and grooming products today. You should gather: Hair products, deodorant, tie, cummerbund or belt, vest, coat or jacket, cuff links and studs, dress shirt, watch, trousers, undershirt, underwear, socks, shoes and last, but definitely not least, the wedding rings. Wedding Day
❑ Get a close shave. ❑ Take a hot shower. ❑ Remember your deodorant! This might be a high-sweat day. ❑ Remember the rings. Place them in your pocket to entrust to your best man sometime before the ceremony. ❑ If possible, ask your mother to pin on your boutonniere. This mother/son moment will bring a tear to her eye.
WEDDINGS Fall 2010
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reception hall directory
reception hall directory H is proposal was music to your ears. Now it’s time to put your florist, cake baker and caterer on speed-dial. When choosing a reception site, check out its size and determine whether it will fit your style of reception and number of guests expected to attend. Find out what services are provided. Will you have to bring your own frills to make it a pretty backdrop for wedding photography? Think budget and remember to read each contract before signing on the dotted line. Ask about cancellation policies, deposit amounts and when the balance is due. To assist our readers, here’s a listing of metro area reception halls: American Legion Post 138, 619 Franklin St., Waterloo, 234-8511 Details: Open to public, accommodates 100-150; book early; $250 per floor, $50 deposit; kitchen, bartender costs extra; no on-site catering; tables, chairs included, linens not; decorating one to two hours before; dance floor. Beaver Hills Country Club, 8230 Beaver Hills Drive, Cedar Falls, 266-1975, www.beaverhills.com Details: Open to public, booking upon availability; accommodates up to 250; $500 for room; set up, clean up included; on-site buffet or sit-down style catering, about $15 per person; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; decorating early depends on availability; dance floor. Cedar Falls Womans Club, Third and Clay Streets, Cedar Falls, 266-1431 Details: Beautifully restored 1860s home with ballroom, parlor and boardroom. Catering available. Call for booking details and services. Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, 1927 E. Orange Road. East of Hawkeye Community College. www. cedarvalleyarboretum.org., 226-4966 Details: A variety of garden settings will accommodate 200 guests. $300 for six hour period. $100 non-refundable deposit to reserve date a minimum of 60 days in advance; $200 balance and damage deposit due one week prior which will be refunded in case of rain. On site dressing room; restrooms and limited electrical access to the gardens. Gardens remain open to the public. Smoking and alcohol prohibited. No rice, bird seed, confetti, rose petals or balloons. Centennial Oaks Golf Club, Eagle Ridge Drive, Waverly, 483-1765, ask for Lisa Details: Accommodates intimate gatherings to large receptions up to 400 guests; on-site catering and bar services; customized menus; chairs, tables, linens provided; outside ceremony site, on-site event coordinator, professional wait staff, dance floor, complimentary set-up and tear-down.
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Center Inn Banquet Facilities, 209 Main St., Readlyn, 279-3839, www. centerinn.com Details: Dining room accommodates up to 75, ballroom accommodates up to 400; banquet room rental Sunday-Thursday, $150, Friday and Saturday, $300; dining room rental Monday-Sunday, $75; basement rental $50; deposit and credit billing $100, required to confirm all bookings, non-refundable; post-event clean up, $100. The Centre Hall, 1211 4th St., SW, Waverly, 352-1386, www.thecentrehall. com Details: Accommodates up to 600 guest; day prior to event setup $175; day after cleanup $175; event date, 250 chairs & 30 tables $400, each additional 50 chairs and 5 tables $100; kitchen access $40. Electric Park Ballroom, 310 W. Conger St., Waterloo, 233-3050, www. nationalcattlecongress.com Details: Accommodates 600 banquet style, fire code allows 1,200; book at least six months in advance; $660 for facility, $250 deposit; on-site catering only, buffet and sit-down; $9 cold meat buffet, $13.75 two-meat buffet, $13 to $18 per plate; set up, clean up, two bartenders included; tables, chairs provided, linens rented at $4 each; smoking permitted; decorating day before depends on availability; no decorations from ceiling or light fixtures; wood floor, stage.
Details: Accommodates 320 people; bookings one month in advance; room rental $900 with $250 deposit (nonrefundable/applied toward rental), includes setup, cleanup and bar, dance floor; additional charges for linens and place settings. Catering available on-site, $18.95 per person buffet-style, no room rental fee if club does the catering (linens included); decorating at noon the day before wedding. Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, University of Northern Iowa campus, Cedar Falls, 273-3660, www. gbpac.com Details: Lobby hall accommodates up to 120 banquet style, 300 standing; book six months to a year in advance; $600, $300 deposit; on-site catering only by UNI catering; tables, chairs, linens provided; balcony, grand central staircase; decorating day before event; dance floor.
Hartman Reserve Nature Center, 657 Reserve Drive, Cedar Falls, 277-2187, www.hartmanreserve.org Details: Accommodates up to 100; booking at least six months in advance; weekends $45 per hour, weekdays $40 per hour; $200 deposit, more to bring in alcohol; no on-site catering; kitchen access, tables, chairs included; PA system; non-smoking; decks with scenic overview, bridge, outside amphitheater seats up to 100, fireplace; decorating early requires rental; no dance floor. Hickory Hills Park, 3338 Hickory Hills Road, La Porte City, 266-6813, www.co.black-hawk.ia.us/depts/conservation Details: Accommodates 125; book up to two years in advance; pricing varies, two-day wedding packages available; $100 deposit, more if bringing in beer keg; no on-site catering; restrooms, kitchen facilities (pots/pans not provided); tables, chairs for 125 are provided, additional seating allowed; beer, wine coolers
allowed; lakefront view; decorating early requires rental; outlets for DJ; cement floor; attached deck, air-conditioning. Holiday Inn, 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls, 277-2230, 1-800-465-4329. www.kinseth.com/cedarfalls_holiday_inn.asp Details: Accommodates up to 300; book about a year in advance; mezzanine and plaza seat up to 350, banquet hall seats up to 300; no rental fee for parties more than 175 people; full-service catering by River City Beefstro, $16.95 to $22.95 per plate; free honeymoon suite with whirlpool for bride and groom; special overnight rates for wedding guests; rehearsal dinner, gift opening, bridal shower available; tables, chairs, linens, skirting, security included; bar, bartender provided; some decorations provided, decorating 8 a.m. day of event; dance floor, table for disc jockey. Knights of Columbus, 1955 Locke Ave., Waterloo, 234-6908, ask for Jim Details: Accommodates up to 264 guests; rental fee includes bartender, chairs, tables, paper tablecloths, set up and clean up; food options include buffet dinners, sandwiches and/or appetizers; hall includes dance floor with stage for band or DJ; handicapped accessible; private parking lot; located near Crossroads Shopping Center and numerous hotels. Oster Regent Theatre, 103 Main St., Cedar Falls, 277-5283, www.cedarnet. org/regent Details: Accommodates 80-100; book early; $175, $50 deposit; no on-site catering; can serve own alcohol but cannot sell to guests; kitchen with serving area, sink, refrigerator, microwave; tables, chairs provided for 100; linens rented for $3 each; room overlooks Cedar River; decorating day before depends on availability; hardwood dance floor.
Studio D Photography
Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center, W. Fourth Street and Commercial, Waterloo, 233-7560 Details: Accommodates 100 to 1,100; book up to 18 months in advance; $600 for facility, $600 deposit; full setup, cleanup, bar included; draped, skirted head table on risers with microphone; on-site catering only; dinner or hors d’oeuvres buffet, sit-down dinner, $15.95 to $23.95 per person; can bring wedding cake; round tables, cake table, chairs, white linens provided; dance floor. Fox Ridge Golf Club, Highway 20, Dike, 989-2213, www.golffoxridge.com
Fall 2010 WEDDINGS
Pepsi Pavilion, National Cattle Congress grounds, 232-5801, www.nationalcattlecongress.com Details: Accommodates 100-500; $550, $250 deposit; on-site buffet-style catering only, starts at $11.50 per plate; tables, chairs included; linens rented for $3 each, 50 cents per napkin; full bar; smoking permitted; decorating afternoon before depends on availability; dance floor. Riverview Conference Center, 439 N. Division St., Cedar Falls, 268-0787, www.riverviewconferencecenter.com Details: Accommodates 200; recommended booking six months before; per person fee $1.25 for groups 150 or fewer, $1 for more than 150; $80 minimum, $50 deposit; on-site catering only, $5 to $6 per plate; no alcohol allowed; tables, chairs included, linens not; non-smoking; decorating day before depends on availability; patio block floor, stage. Riviera-Roose Community Center, 307 Maple St., Janesville, (319) 987-3512. Recently remodeled, the community center features a well-lit, wide open space with easy access to an outdoor grassy area. Rotary Reserve, 5932 N. Union Road, Cedar Falls, 266-6813, www.co.black-hawk.ia.us/depts/conservation Details: Accommodates 300; book up to two years in advance; $650 for all day Saturday; package deals include $800 for both Friday and Saturday night, $925 for all day Friday and Saturday, $650 for Thursday night and all day Friday; weekday times range from $195 to $275, $100 increase on holidays; $200 deposit two weeks prior to event; no on-site catering; kitchen, restrooms; tables, chairs provided for 300 guests; linens, cooking utensils not provided; beer, wine, champagne only; uniformed security officer required if serving alcohol; non-smoking; remote location on banks of Cedar River, deck, gazebo, fireplace, PA system, concrete floor, air-conditioned/ heated; changing rooms for both men and women available. Sky Event Centre, Black’s Building, 501 Sycamore St., Waterloo, 277-1255, www.barmuda.com Sky Event Centre is a premier event centre in downtown Waterloo opening later this summer. The event centre, located on the 8th floor of the Black’s building overlooks the entire Cedar Valley and is available for reunions, wedding receptions, fundraisers and all kinds of special events. Call Bridget Bryson at 319-277-1255 or email Brit@barmuda.com Sunnyside Country Club, 1600 Olympic Drive, Waterloo, 234-1707, www.sunnysidecountryclub.com Details: Members only; ballroom seats 270; booking depends on availability; no rental fee for members; onsite sit-down or buffet-style catering only, average $23 per plate; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; decorating early allowed; dance floor. The Supervisors’ Club, 3265 Dewitt Road, Waterloo, 233-6069, ask for Donna or Casie Details: Accommodates up to 400 in a non-smoking environment; $900 rental includes bartenders, chairs, tables and cleaning; linens extra; full bar and food capabilities; option of appetizers, sandwiches, two-meat buffet or served, sit-down dinner; DJ or band stage and dance floor; handicapped accessible; close parking; located off of Ridgeway Avenue between Waterloo and Cedar Falls.
WEDDINGS Fall 2010
University of Northern Iowa Slife Ballroom and Georgian Lounge, 1227 W. 27th St., Cedar Falls, 2732333, www.uni.edu/dor/dining/catering Details: Ballroom seats up to 220; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; $500 for ballroom, $200 for neighboring lounge; half of estimated cost paid in advance, remainder due at event; set up, clean up included; on-site catering only, dinner $15.55 to $22 per person, buffet, sit down or cocktail reception available; will cut and serve cake; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; non-smoking; no open flames, nails or excessive glitter; can provide centerpieces, bouquets, card basket; patio attached to lounge; sound system in ballroom; portable risers for band, DJ, head table; wood dance floor. University of Northern Iowa Maucker Union Ballroom, 1227 W. 27th St., Cedar Falls, 273-2256, www. uni.edu/maucker Details: Ballroom features flexible options that can accommodate groups as small as 50 to as large as 480; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; $300700; deposit half of rental; linens, tables, chairs, risers, microphone, set up, clean up, included; additional A/V equipment available; bar, on-site catering provided by UNI Catering; decorating day before depending on availability; dance floor included. Wartburg College, 100 Wartburg Blvd., Waverly, 352-8453, ask for Margaret, www.wartburg.edu/studentcenter/conferences.html Details: Open to public; accommodates up to 400 banquet style; booking depends on availability, usually book during summer or student breaks; mobile partitions divide three rooms, $100 for each room, half of estimated total paid ahead; on-site sit-down or buffet-style catering only by Wartburg food service, $11 to $18 per person, appetizer reception $1.90 to $3 per person; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar serves wine, beer only; decorating day ahead costs extra; can provide centerpieces; staging for head table provided for extra fee; DVD, Power Point, video, sound equipment; dance floor can be rented.
Planning a Wedding?
reception hall directory
Park Place Event Centre, 1521 Technology Parkway, Suite B, Cedar Falls, 277-1255, www.barmuda.com/ park_ place/weddings.php Details: Intimate gatherings to grand receptions accommodating up to 500 people (seated). Services range from customized menus and personalized favors, and event coordinators can coordinate the entire wedding. For customized prices, packages and deposits, call Park Place.
We are a truly complete FULL-SERVICE catering service in the Cedar Valley.
• Select Food Menu • Full Service Buffet Line • Served Sit-down Meal • Hors d’ oeuvres • Elegant China/Stemware • Disposable Dinnerware • Linens/Napkins/Skirting • Serving Personnel • Beautiful Ice Sculptures • Lighted Punch Fountain • Expert Coordinator Call or e-mail to reserve your special date today!
Sunrise Catering 319-279-4089 or 319-961-4736
www.sunrise-catering.com | bev@sunrise-catering.com
Waterloo Center for the Arts, 225 Commercial St., Waterloo, 291-4490, www.waterloocenterforthearts.org Details: Accommodates up to 250; book minimum of six months before, maximum as far in advance as desired; $350 to $485; $200 non-refundable deposit; no on-site catering; kitchen available; set up, clean up included, kitchen clean up not; round or square tables, chairs provided; additional charge for alcohol, beer, wine, champagne can be purchased prior to or with a cash bar; water fountain in front of building for photos; decorating day before costs extra; stage, microphones, sound system available; dance floor. Waterloo Elks Lodge, 407 E. Park Ave., Waterloo, 234-7568, Randi Leuenhagen randi290@qwestoffice. net Details: Room rental with member sponsor; $600 guest fee; accommodates up to 375; on-site catering only, $15 to $25 per person plus tax and gratuity; tables, chairs included; fee for bartender, linens; decorating day before depends on availability; luxurious atmosphere, stage for bands or DJ, dance floor; plenty of on-site parking. Waverly Golf and Country Club, 705 Eighth St. SW, Waverly, 352-3855, www.waverlycountryclub.com Details: Open to public for rental; accommodates 3500; book about a year in advance; $600, $100 deposit; on-site sit down or buffet-style catering only; one-meat buffet $12.95, two-meat $14.95, three-meat $16.95 per person, call for sit-down meal prices; can bring in wedding cake; tables, chairs, bartender, waitresses, linens $1 per person; decorating night before depends on availability; dance floor. To list or update your reception site listing for the next issue of Weddings, call 291-1429 or e-mail melody. parker@wcfcourier.com.
wcfcourier.com/app/wedding
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Bride’s Name Address City
State
Zip Code
State
Zip Code
Groom’s Name Address City Date Engaged
Planned Wedding Date
Location of reception (city)
Estimated number of guests
E-mail address:
Mail bridal planner to __bride __groom (check one)
PLEASE CHECK THE ITEMS/SERVICES YOU NEED FOR YOUR WEDDING: __ Bridal Services __ Health & Beauty __ Bridal Shops __ Honeymoon/Travel __ Cakes/Sweets __ Hotel/Accommodations __ Caterers __ Invitations __ Disc Jockeys __ Jewelry __ Dry Cleaners - Gown Preservation __ Limo/Transportation __ Favors __ Musicians/Bands/Soloists __ Financial/Insurance __ Officiants __ Floral/Decorations __ Parties __ Furniture/Furnishings __ Photographers __ Gifts/Registry __ Realtor/Housing
__ Reception Sites __ Rehearsal Dinner __ Rentals - Party Supplies, Tents __ Tuxes __ Videographer __ Wedding Consultants __ Wedding Sites __ Wine, Spirits __ Other