Weddings - Spring 2020

weddings A publication of Courier Communications

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SPRING 2020

Beyond

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Contents

Love notes

Features

Departments

5 Blush

14 Couples who decorate together

12 Bridal checklist

8 Watercolor cakes

17 Choose your wedding theme

29 Reception hall directory

9 Proposals

24 Wedding invitations

11 Wedding glow

26 Beyond the cake

13 Table numbers & tall flowers

28 Take a dream honeymoon

sailing cruise

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 3

weddings March, April & May 2020 GENERAL MANAGER David Adams EDITOR Melody Parker melody.parker@wcfcourier.com PROJECT MANAGER & AD SALES Sheila Kerns 319-291-1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com

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Weddings Magazine is published quarterly by Courier Communications and may be contacted at: 100 E. 4th St., P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704.

Copyright, Weddings, 2019.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.

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love notes

Blushing brides If ever there has been a perfect color for weddings, it just might be blush.

Whatever the season, blush is a fairy-tale color — romantic, whisper-soft and ethereal.

Whether it veers toward pink or peach, blush flatters every skin tone. Take a peek at how brides have used blush to create the wedding of their dreams.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 5

love notes | color palette

Blush ‌Are you drawn to the romance of blush?

The color is perfect for a soft, flowing and feminine wedding gown. And if you’d rather not go overboard on blush, use hints of it throughout your wedding ceremony and reception — flowers tucked into bouquets, bridesmaids’ dresses, table napkins, cake decoration.

You can stick with neutrals, but blush truly goes with many other colors. Here are some favorite combos: Blush and white Blush and ivory Blush and dusty blue Blush and navy blue Blush and mint Blush and deep green Blush and lavender Blush and gray Blush and cassis (burgundy) Blush and gold Blush and black

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love notes

Watercolor works of

art

‌The next wow-worthy wedding cake trend is watercolor.

If you’ve seen one of these glorious creations, the cakes are simply stunning statements at any wedding reception. Wedding experts call these hand-painted cakes edible works of art.

These cakes may be just too pretty to slice!

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love notes

Can wedding proposals get any

more

personal? ‌Yes, says The Knot’s recent Jewelry & Engagement Study. Proposals, in fact, are getting hyper-personal as those proposing spend an average of three months plotting and planning the perfect scenario to pop the question. While more than half (51%) of proposals occur in private, nearly one in five takes places in locations significant to the couple’s past — a favorite date spot or the location where they first met.

“Today’s couples are more diverse than ever before, and what makes each proposal, wedding and even registry unique is the celebrating of two individuals and their love story,” says The Knot Editor in Chief Kristen Maxwell Cooper.

“Couples are tossing and twisting engagement tra-

ditions like never before, whether choosing to propose on top of a mountain in private or at the location of their first date in front of family and friends, ultimately prioritizing their personal preferences for the start of their wedding planning journey and soon-to-be newlywed lives.”

The focus of personalization extends from the proposal to one’s engagement jewelry as well, with 45% of engagement rings including custom-designed elements.

And while diamonds (83%) continue to reign as the most popular center stone, non-diamond precious stones are gaining momentum, with one in 10 to-beweds opting for stones like moissanite and sapphire.

In addition to having personalization on the brain,

ring-exchanging couples are shifting their focus when shopping for engagement rings, increasingly prioritizing the overall cost and quality of the ring rather than its total size and ultimately relying on local jewelry retailers (40%) and national jewelry chains (30%) as the most popular places to purchase a ring.

What’s trending in 2020 proposals?

The Digital Age Millennials are increasingly relying on technology in their everyday lives, so it’s no surprise their relationships are following suit. Nearly a quarter (22%) of to-be-weds meet online, with the most popular platforms being Tinder (30%), OkCupid (14%) and Bumble (13%). Fast forward to their proposals (which take place 2-5 years after meeting for nearly half of to-be-weds), and online resources like social media platforms (79%) and jewelry

designer websites (25%) have become the go-to for inspiration, particularly for proposees as they begin searching for their future engagement rings.

Reliance on tech doesn’t stop there; nowadays one in 10 couples have a professional photographer capture the actual proposal, which comes in handy when more than 90% of couples announce their engagement on social media.

It takes two It’s not uncommon for to-

be-weds to collaborate on their future proposal plans, whether by discussing their preferences together or even opting for a dual-proposal (7%). Sometimes, such collaboration occurs in subtle forms, with 77% of proposees reporting that they drop hints on their proposal preferences.

Taking it to the next level of involvement, 7 out of 10 proposees report being at least somewhat involved throughout the shopping experience, and nearly a quarter report

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 9

having shopped or looked at rings together with their partner. Additionally, nearly 1 in 10 proposees even report being present when the ring is selected or purchased. Budgeting for the proposal can also be a joint effort, as 20% of couples report discussing the budget for the engagement ring together.

Privacy matters No longer are to-be-weds choosing to kick-start their engagements in public; the majority of proposers (51%) opt to pop the question in more intimate locations that often hold some significance for them. Today, 21% of proposals occur in the privacy of one’s own home, while nearly 1 in 5 to-be-weds get engaged in a location that’s special to them or their partner—whether it’s the restaurant of their first date, the college campus they both attended, or their favorite bookstore.

But just because more proposals are taking place in private, doesn’t mean they’re any less elaborate; many proposers involve friends and family (26%) in the celebrations or incorporate décor in a unique way, like filling a room with floor-to-ceiling flower petals, lights, photographs or all of the above.

Rings and non-rings While most (96%) couples continue to exchange rings at the start of their engagement, we also see couples proposing with non-ring items that are just as meaningful—think watches, bracelets, gifting a vacation, or even a down payment on a house with the money one would’ve spent on a ring.

Ring or no ring, engagement jewelry is yet another element where personalization remains top of mind. For ring-exchanging to-be-weds, the majority (86%) purchase a new ring for the occasion; 45% incorporate customized details into the ring, whether by custom-designing it in its entirety (31%) or taking an existing ring design and adding personal touches (51%). And while diamonds remain the most popular center stone choice, non-diamond precious stones are gaining momentum (10%): The most popular stones are moissanite (19%, up from 10% in 2017), sapphire (18%), morganite (12%) and aquamarine (6%). Similarly, non-round, center stone cuts are increasingly in demand among to-be-weds, the most popular being princess or square (14%), oval (14%), cushion (9%) and pear/teardrop (5%).

Ethics and sustainability When couples get engaged, they’re not just making the moment about them, but are focusing on the world around them as well. Expect to see many proposers thinking about how they can be environmentally and ethically conscious, with more than half of proposees signifying that it’s important for their stone to be ethically sourced (nearly 1 in 4 report receiving a stone that was ethically sourced). Similarly, 15% of proposees prefer to have a lab-grown stone, potentially as a result of a more ethical sourcing method. Additionally, couples can also go green by repurposing stones, whether by resetting a stone and/or setting that’s a family heirloom (currently 11% of to-be-weds’ stones are passed down through family) or even by purchasing a vintage ring.

10 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

Just engaged! ‌Engagement photos are no longer portraits that resemble ones found in old wedding albums. Today’s modern couples are elevating their photos with romantic and stylish settings, or a sense of spontaneity and fun

love notes

P

lanning a wedding is stressful — and may cause a few sleepless nights. A healthy, glowing bride needs her zzz’s, and that means quality sleep.

Despite a desire for perfect sleep, Americans are not even close to getting the recommended eight hours a night, and 1 in 4 Americans believes the sleep they are getting isn’t the quality rest they want and need.

“To put sleep deprivation into perspective, 37% of Americans report they have fallen asleep behind the wheel,” said Dr. Sujay Kansagra, a sleep health expert for Mattress Firm. “About 5% report falling asleep while driving on a monthly basis. Clearly, sleep deprivation is wide-spread and a risk factor for overall well-being.”

With chronic sleep deprivation, the brain’s ability to maintain attention and focus continues to decline over time. In addition to impairing mental function, lack of sleep has been associated with a host of risks to overall health.

Prevent sleep deprivation and take charge of your mental and

Get your glow on

– with healthy

zzz’s

physical health with these tips from Kansagra: Nap responsibly. When you’re feeling tired, it’s no surprise the best solution may be sleep. Some research suggests a quick power nap can actually give you a stronger boost than caffeine. However, too much rest during the day can throw off your nighttime sleep pattern.

Aim for no more than 20 minutes so you don’t wake up groggy, and time

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your nap for the mid-point of your wake cycle (halfway between when you wake up and go to sleep).

Limit screen time. If you turn to your phone to help wind down while you’re in bed, you’re not alone, but you may be doing more harm than good. According to a survey conducted by Mattress Firm on sleep habits, the average person scrolls on his or her phone while lying in bed for more than 12 minutes be-

fore shutting down for the night.

What’s more, the light from the screen serves as a stimulant, as does the digital content you’re viewing.

That means you’re making it physically harder to fall asleep than if you put down your devices at least 30 minutes before bed.

Stick to a sleep schedule. The average person gets less than six hours of sleep per night, according to the survey — a far cry from the eight hours most experts recommend.

One way to buck this trend is to make it a point to turn in and wake up at the same time every day so you synchronize your sleep time with your internal clock. While eight hours is the standard, you may need to adjust up or down to find the amount sleep that lets you wake feeling rested.

Develop a pre-bedtime routine. You can train your body to prepare for sleep by creating a pattern or a routine that eases you toward sleep.

“Even something as simple as putting on a sleep mask each night, reading in bed for 20 minutes or practicing the same shower routine at the same time every night signals to your brain it’s time to hit the hay,” Kansagra said.

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love notes

PRETTY TABLE

No height limit Tall flower arrangements are ‌ beautiful, but they also add drama and height to your tables and other settings at the wedding reception.

Just make sure the arrangements are tall enough that guests seated at the table can easily see each other.

No one wants to duck their head, or peer around a floral arrangement to have a conversation with someone seated across the table.

NUMBER IDEAS ‌You’ve created a seating chart, but how are you going to make it easy for guests to find their seats in a crowd?

A well-marked table at your wedding reception makes guests feel welcome and eliminates a lot of the confusion and roaming around. Here are a few ideas for making those table number signs pretty, too.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 13

TIL DECOR DO US PART? How couples can decorate together

ASSOCIATED PRESS

keep them updated along the way to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

‌ haring a home with someone you S love can be wonderful. But decorating together isn’t always easy, especially when your tastes aren’t the same.

If one partner loves filling every space with mementos and the other is clutter-averse, who gets their way? It can be hard to find good compromises when one loves bold colors and patterns, while the other favors calming shades of gray.

Interior designer Penny Drue Baird draws as much on her doctorate in psychology as on her design training when she works with couples decorating a home.

“I’m there as the mediator, like a marital therapist,” Baird says, “working out how to approach it so both persons don’t feel like they’re the one that can’t get what they want.”

Here, Baird and two other New Yorkbased interior designers — Deborah Martin and Michelle Gerson — discuss how couples can tackle the sometimes challenging task of decorating shared space.

An entry area in a home designed by interior designer Penny Drue Baird.

SHARING YOUR VISION All three designers begin by doing an intake meeting with a couple to find out “everything that they are hoping to achieve, and the look they feel like they’re going for,” Baird says. Clients will bring photos they’ve ripped from magazines or show pages from design books to help explain what appeals to them.

A couple can sit down together and have this sort of meeting even if they aren’t working with a designer. By showing your partner what you envision, you may find that you have more common ground than you realized. Martin says

that sometimes a client begins with a preconceived notion that they don’t like a certain pattern or style, but when they see it in context they do like it.

“It’s about discovery,” Martin says.

Just as a designer must “take some risks and present what you feel will work very well in the home,” a partner can take the risk of showing their vision and taking in their partner’s vision with an open mind.

Both may end up happily surprised.

In some cases, one partner might say they’re fine turning over the reins completely. If you’re redecorating a home or moving to a new one and your partner says you can make all the design choices,

14 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

FRANCIS HAMMOND/PENNY DRUE BAIRD VIA AP‌

COHESIVE COMPROMISES‌ Gerson recommends making a list of items you both need in the room or home you’re decorating. These are the shared must-haves you can agree on, like plenty of seating in the living room if you both like to entertain.

Find that common ground, she says, and try to agree on one major piece of furniture. Maybe it’s a sofa that one partner loves the shape of and the other likes the fabric.

Once each person feels like their biggest requests have been heard, it may be easier to compromise on other details.

Another way to compromise: If one person likes a space full of colorful things and the other dislikes clutter, Gerson says, “then we try to organize the stuff.

When stuff looks organized and purposeful, and not just like stuff all over the place, then people start to realize they do like having stuff around.”

For one client who had a collection of music memorabilia, Gerson added built-in shelving in a home office to display the collection in an organized way that pleased both partners.

If a home is big enough, couples with differing taste might find it’s easier to compromise on the main rooms if they will each have more influence on one other room, Baird says. One person might choose darker colors for a home library, for instance, while another can use bright, bold colors for their home office or hobby space. The main rooms can serve as a bridge, connecting those styles together more smoothly.

Martin agrees: “I try not to create a ‘his space’ or a `her space’ in favor of

PATRICK CLINE/MICHELLE GERSON VIA AP PHOTO‌

When one partner has a collection to display and the other partner prefers an uncluttered space, it’s important to take an organized approach, as seen in this home office space created by Michele Gerson, where custom shelving was designed to prominently but neatly display a collection of music memorabilia.

Couples can agree on a neutral plan and add more intricate accent pieces such as draperies or striking light fixtures that the couple can enjoy, such as this bedroom by Penny Drue Baird.

creating spaces that flow nicely and have continuity.”

Some couples opt to mix their contrasting tastes throughout their home, but Baird says creating an “eclectic” room that mashes up two different decorating styles can be difficult. “People bandy around the word eclectic, but it really is a mishmosh,” she says. “It’s very rare to see a room or a home that I would call eclectic that is well done.”

ANTOINE BOOTZ/ PENNY DRUE BAIRD VIA AP ‌

TAKE YOUR TIME‌ Gerson says people often are in a rush to completely decorate a room and fill every space. That can lead you to compromises that neither of you like, she says. Don’t be afraid to leave a bit of empty space until you discover the right

piece to put there.

“It’s OK if you have a fabulous sofa and a great coffee table and a rug,” Gerson says, to then wait until you stumble upon a wonderful chair you both like that can complete the room.

Time also makes the shared decorating process easier: “I find that the longer a couple has lived together or been married, the more likely they are to have the same design objectives,” Martin says. “They’re on the same page, especially older couples.”

And with enough communication and patience, Baird says, most couples manage to decorate their homes without conflict.

“I’ve never had anyone get divorced,” she says, “until after we were done decorating.”

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 15

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Choose your

wedding

theme Every couple wants to take their special day to the next level with statement-making wedding and reception decor. Whether you’re in love with Boho or Country, want to revive the Classics, indulge your Romantic side, or go Modern with your wedding theme, these inspiring looks will get you started on making your own unique dreams come true.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 17

boho

Less princess and a little more woodland nymph? A Bohemian-themed wedding is an eclectic, free-spirited gathering of different styles, including vintage and rustic. A Boho wedding is hipster-chic and whimsical, but the overall look intermingles casual and natural touches with an earthy and ethnic feeling that reflects the couple’s personal tastes.

18 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

country A country wedding isn’t necessarily rustic. There’s a bit more polish appearing in today’s countrified weddings and a lot of charm. Country-inspired weddings have a more natural color palette with a mix of homespun textures – lace and wood, flowers and foliage, linen napkins and wooden tables, elegant china with mismatched glassware or silverware.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 19

romantic All weddings are romantic, right? But a romantic-themed wedding pulls out all the stops – ethereal, flowing dresses, soft-focus pastels, dreamy lighting, luxurious touches that are more about fine and understated details than an over-the-top attitude. Beautiful cakes, cascading bouquets filled with pale roses or peonies, perhaps even a flower wall.

20

classic

Call it traditional or timeless, a classic wedding is a formal affair. This is a couple who prefer NOT to follow trends or go overboard with themes and motifs on their big day. They want to create a blissful but curated occasion that is elegant and understated, with a gorgeous cake, a sit-down dinner with linen tablecloths, a tent or manicured garden if the wedding takes place outdoors, a refined color palette and a perfect bouquet of orchids, lilies or roses.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 21

modern Sophisticated, contemporary and trend-setting describe the modern wedding. Each detail is planned out to the Nth degree, beginning with the invitation. The bride might wear a sheath-type wedding dress – daring and subtle and minimalistic. Although it’s not stuffy, nothing distracts from exquisite, streamlined details, such as choosing all foliage greens over flowers for table settings at the reception. Colors can be bold or monochromatic. A post-ceremony cocktail party might feature locally sourced food and wine.

22 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

mara BRIGHT IDEA ‌Gorgeous, grand, stunning — brides are in love with using chandeliers to illuminate their wedding settings. Inside or outdoors, chandeliers are a bright decorating idea that can be the focal point wherever you hang them.

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 23

Weddin g invitation

WORDING Wedding invitation wording rules may seem confusing, complicated or even archaic. Actually, those rules are simply guidelines for good etiquette. Whether you choose wording that is traditional, a twist on tradition, modern, casual, or you want to create your own wording, remember to include basics — “who, what, where and when.”       

Hosts Request to attend the wedding Names of the couple getting married Date, time, time of day and location Reception details Dress code RSVP card

The bride’s parents traditionally host the wedding and are listed first on the invitation. Another option is to list both sets of parents, or couples can host their own weddings, or join with their parents.

Traditional or classic invitations spell out everything, including the time: Mr. and Mrs. ________ request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, ________, to ________ (groom’s full name), the ___ day of ___(month), ___ (spell out year as in Two Thousand and Twenty) at ___ o’clock in the _____ (time of day) at ____ (location, address, city and state). Reception to follow. Black tie.

If the bride’s parents are hosts, leave off the bride’s last name. If the bride’s last name is different than her parents, use her full name.

The bride’s last name should be included if

24 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

the groom’s parents also are hosting.

If parents are divorced, and you want to include both as hosts, keep each parent on a separate line.

LGBTQ+ wedding invitation wording follows the same rule. The hosts are listed first, followed by their son or daughter’s name, followed by their son or daughter’s partner’s name. If the couple is hosting themselves, names are typically listed in alphabetical order.

CASUAL WORDING: John and Mary Smith invite you to share in their joy at the marriage of their daughter _______ to _______________________ on __________(day, month and year) at _______ time ______in the _____________( time of day), __________(spell out year).

If the couple is footing the bill themselves, skip the host line and begin with the request line: FORMAL: The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of _________(bride) to _______________(groom) _________(day), the _________(spell out date) of _______ (month), ___________ (spell out year) at _________(time) in the ______________ (time of day), ____ (location, address, city and state). Reception to follow. Black tie INFORMAL: ______________(bride’s full name) & ______________ (groom’s full name) in-

vite you to share in their joy at their wedding ________(day) ________ (date and year) at ________________(time) in the ______________(time of day.)

Is more than one party helping pay for the wedding? Begin the invitation with the bride’s name, followed by the groom’s name, then parent’s names starting with the bride’s parents. Or the couple’s names in alphabetical order, followed by their parents’ names in corresponding order.

FORMAL: Ms. ____________(bride’s name) and Mr. ___________ (groom’s name) together with their parents (list both sets of parents, beginning with bride’s parents) request the honor of your presence at their wedding _________ (day), _____________(date), ______ (year) at _________(time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________(address) _________city, _______state.

INFORMAL: You can include the name of a deceased loved one by putting the word “late” in front of the family’s members name.

Together with their families, ___________ (bride’s full name) , daughter of ________ and the late _________, and _____________ (groom’s full name), son of __________, request the honor of your presence at their marriage ______(day), _____________ (date), ______ (year) at _________(time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________(address) _________city, _______state.

Couples exchanging their vows in nontraditional location, such as a home, a garden or other venue may chose informal wording : _____and _______ (bride’s parents) request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter _________bride’s (first and middle names) to __________ (groom’s first and middle names), son of _________ groom’s parents’ names ______ (day), _____________(date), ______ (year) at _________ (time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________ (address) _________city, _______ state.

Or choose more casual wording, such as “invite you to share and celebrate.”

Couples can also opt for a relaxed option that leaves out parents’ names: ___________ (bride’s full name) and ___________ (groom’s full name) together with their parents request the pleasure of your company at their marriage ______(day), _____________ (date), ______ (year) at _________(time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________(address) _________ city, _______state.

Or You are cordially invited to witness the union of _________ (bride’s name) and __________(groom’s name) at _____(day), _____________ (date), ______ (year) at _________(time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________(address) _________ city, _______state.

Couples who are older, independent and hosting their own wedding do not include parents’ names, but toast

and thank each set of parents at the reception: ___________ (bride’s full name) and _________ (groom’s full name) invite you to share in the joy as they exchange marriage vows ______(day), _____________(date), ______ (year) at _________(time) _________ time of day) at _________(location), _________ (address) _________city, _______ state.

Request line options Pleasure of your company At the marriage of their children Invite you to celebrate with them

The reception Formal invitations include this information on a separate card. For less formal weddings, include the information on the invitation, if there is room. If the ceremony and reception take place in the same location use the line “reception immediately following” or “afterward at the reception.” If the reception is at another location, that location goes on a separate line. Include the time if it is not immediately following the vows.

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Dress code Include in the lower right corner of the invitation. If no note is included, the style of the invitation itself dictates dress code.

An elaborate or fancy invitation implies a formal, black-tie affair; a simpler invitation implies a more casual style.

RSVP Include a separate response card for guests to fill out and return in the mail, or have guests RSVP to your wedding website.

Include the website on a separate card, if possible.

Source: theknot.com, weddings essential

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 25

Wedding desserts trend toward fun, variety

‌

KIM COOK, ASSOCIATED PRESS

hile the big, traditional wedding cake shows no signs of going away, many couples are also including an array of sweet little bites at their receptions.

It’s an opportunity for newlyweds to show who they are, says Jennifer Cress, digital director at Martha Stewart Weddings.

“We’re seeing many couples include sweets that say something about their relationship, like a family cookie recipe, or their go-to ice cream flavor,” she says. “Every couple wants to personalize their wedding day as much as possible, and dessert is an easy way to do that.”

Los Angeles couple Lauren Aust and Sonny Yuen did just that for

26 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

their Kansas City, Missouri, wedding this summer.

“We used food as a vehicle to help tell our story,” Aust says. “Dinner stations were themed after some of our favorite New York food adventures.

“I saw the same opportunity with dessert. When our caterer mentioned they used doughnut holes from Lamar’s (a Kansas City shop) to do a flambee station, if seemed a nice way to give guests a taste of my hometown and create a moment that was experiential.”

Desserts allow for culinary creativity — things like cake lollies, mini milkshakes, churros and alcoholic ice pops. And they give guests the chance to sample quick treats before getting back to the center of the party.

Meghan Leese, who plans and

These photos show desserts at Lauren Aust and Sonny Yuen’s wedding in Kansas City, Mo. The couple referenced personal and shared experiences with their food offerings. There were donut holes from famed Kansas City donut shop Lamar’s, and an array of sweet bites.

SARA REED STUDIOS‌

runs weddings in Chicago and New Jersey, says, “The cake is only important for about half of the weddings we do. It’s more about the dessert bar, with the cake as one of the options.”

WeddingWire’s creative director Jeffra Trumpower agrees. “Couples want to make things less pretentious and more fun,” she says.

Among her favorite trends for the wedding sweet table is one she calls “breakfast for dessert” — mini waffles, pancakes or crepe stacks decked out with fresh fruit, whipped cream and other accompaniments.

“It’s the perfect ‘wake-up call’ for a surge of energy,” she says.

“You can easily pop these treats in your mouth and head back to the dance floor.”

Trumpower says comfort and nostalgia are in. There are makeyour-own s’mores stations, selfserve hot chocolate, and top-yourown mini pies with seasonal fruits.

New Yorker Amanda Scott went to a wedding on Long Island recently where nobody wanted to sit and eat. “Servers came around the dance floor with apple pie shooters and little macaroons. People loved

it!”

Margaret Foster of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, attended a September wedding in which the couple did without the cake entirely, to save money, concentrating their budget on venue, photographer and DJ. “There was a table with plates of mini desserts like cannolis, doughnuts, cheesecake and brownie bites.

I loved how unique and intimate it all was — more about the bride, groom and their loved ones than wedding traditions,” she says. “They also provided little pastry bags for guests to take desserts home.”

Cress says the dessert-as-wedding-favor is another trend.

As are food stations. “They’re entertaining, and make the day feel a little more bespoke,” Cress says.

“Other than make-your-own options, one-bite desserts seem to be growing in popularity. I think with couples offering so many different food choices, guests want to be able to sample it all.”

And don’t overlook the social-media value of a decked-out dessert table: “Desserts tend to be one of the most Instagrammable moments of the night,” says Cress.

7213 NORDIC DRIVE the home of Hilton Garden Inn

Dream Weddings.

LESLIE BOUCHER EVENT & CATERING MANAGER 319-859-3852 LESLIE.BOUCHER@HILTON.COM

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 27

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

Take a

dream honeymoon cruise on authentic

‌I

sailing ship

f your fondest dreams are more about the journey than the destination, a trip on a legendary four-masted windjammer in the Caribbean may be just the adventure you’re looking for.

Finding an authentic sailing ship for your nautical honeymoon adventure is not out of reach. Sea Cloud Cruises sail the traditional way — by hand. The yacht is designed for up to 64 passengers, with a crew of about 60. You can watch the ship’s sailing crew climb the rigging and work the sails as you journey to smaller ports and destinations, and you can even volunteer to help work the ropes, if you like.

A 360-foot windjammer with 29 sails and a main mast towering to 184 feet, the tall ship was built in 1931 as a private yacht for heiress and founder of General Foods Marjorie Merriweather Post and husband Edward F. Hutton. Shipboard guests included the rich and famous, such as author James Michener. The ship was restored in 2011 by a group of German businessmen seeking to retain its opulence and beauty.

Every journey provides an “Open House” cocktail hour where guests can view all the staterooms, including the luxurious cabins created for the heiress and her husband. Other cabins have more modern furnishings, most with picture windows, and some with doors opening to Caribbean breezes on the Promenade Deck. Travelers enjoy personal service, with many crew members staying with the line for over 10 years, and some even more than 30 years.

28 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

While the settings may be luxurious, the on-board experience is informal, with no assigned seating at meals, a casual dress code and an intimate atmosphere. American and European guests mingle and relax while enjoying Michelin-star quality meals out on the deck or inside the dining room, featuring fresh seafood and produce obtained during the voyage at Caribbean ports like St. Barts, the British Virgin Islands or Bequia Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The smaller size of the ship allows her to visit lesser-known ports of call, far from typical tourist destinations. Often small Zodiac boats are used to let passengers visit quiet island beaches or indulge in a little snorkeling. The Caribbean offers ideal sailing due to the east-to-west prevailing trade winds, making it the perfect destination for the yachts.

On most of the 7- to 14-day Caribbean itineraries, half the day is spent

sailing, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the sailing ship and revel in the journey. For those who love to sail, it’s a dream come true. Passengers can visit the ship’s deck any time, stopping at the bridge to speak to the captain or the officer on duty, 24/7. The engines only run when needed, using low-sulfur diesel, so the trip is an example of sustainable tourism. Travelers seeking a longer voyage can travel the crossing from Europe to the Caribbean, a two-and-a-half-week trip.

The ship spends summers sailing the Mediterranean, but winters are prime for some of the best sailing in the world, following in the wake of buccaneers throughout the islands of Lesser Antilles and other unique Caribbean destinations.

A second ship, Sea Cloud II, is more modern but still sailed the traditional way, by hand, with 23 sails and a 188-foot main mast. This ship carries up to 94 guests, with a crew of about 65. The company will christen a third ship in summer 2020.

Learn more, find stunning videos or take a virtual onboard visit, at SeaCloud.com.

Source: Brandpoint

RECEPTION HALL DIRECTORY ‌ merican Legion Post A 138, 728 Commercial St., Waterloo 319-234-8511 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 Dr., Cedar Falls 319-266-1975 www.beaverhills.com 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.

Brown Derby Ballroom 618 Sycamore St., Waterloo 319-240-0308 www.brownderbyballroom.com The newly remodeled and restored Brown Derby in Waterloo was originally the first Elks Club. We have great parking and can serve 215 people in a sit-down dinner. We can serve more if it is just a reception with appetizers. We have a full bar. We are also handicapped accessible. To review and reserve, please contact Chuck at (319) 240-0308.

Black’s Sky Room/Tea Room 501 Sycamore St., No. 710 Waterloo Contact Vern Nelson 319-233-5109 Built in 1929 atop the eighth floor of the Black’s building, the Sky Room has been beautifully restored. Events from 10 to 360 people; choice of 8 pre-approved caterers or your choice to be approved; open bar, paid bar or combination with bartender(s); tables, chairs, stage risers & podium available; parking connected by Sky Walk.

Cedar Falls Community Center 528 Main St., Cedar Falls 319-277-1900 Available for evening and weekend rentals for special events such as weddings and receptions, anniversaries and other special events. Chairs and tables provided, capacity 200. No on-site food prep allowed, but small kitchen to assist with catered food. Dance floor. Nonsmoking with ample nearby parking. Additional deposit and charge for wine and beer. Available to rent up to one year in advance; call 268-5541 for more information and booking.

Cedar Falls Womans Club 304 Clay St., Cedar Falls 319-266-1431 www.cedarfallswomansclub.com CFWC@cfu.net Manager: Angie Andrews This stately home overlooks Overman Park in the heart of the historic area of Cedar Falls. It has been and is a meeting place for many groups and a gathering place for private parties & small weddings. Consider this beautiful Cedar Falls landmark for your next event.

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens 1927 E. Orange Road, Waterloo 319-226-4966 www.cedarvalleyarboretum.org 40 acres, all outdoors and surrounded by natural beauty. Located east of Hawkeye Community Col

lege and conveniently off Hwy. 20. Gardens can accommodate up to 250 people max. Saturday weddings include a one-hour rehearsal the night before your wedding, and 8 hours of rental time from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the day of your wedding.

Additional rental time and benefits can be added for an extra fee. All rental activity must be completed before 9 p.m. Wedding rentals available 7 days a week; prices vary. For more information, call our office or email us at office@cedarvalleyarboretum.org.

Center Inn Banquet Facilities 209 Main St., Readlyn 319-279-3839 www.centerinn.com 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; postevent clean up, $100.

The Centre Hall 1211 4th St., SW, Waverly 319-352-1386 www.thecentrehall.com Seating for up to 700 guests. Wedding package includes: day prior to event, day of event, half day after event, seating for 250 guests including tables and chairs, kitchen area and serving tables.

Accommodates the wedding, reception, dinner, and dance without moving or tearing down tables and chairs.

Diamond Event Center at Jorgensen Plaza 5307 Caraway Lane, Cedar Falls (319) 859-9373 or www.DiamondEventCenterCF.com The Cedar Valley’s newest event center hosts memorable celebrations including weddings, receptions, anniversaries, retirement parties, awards dinners, gala fundraisers, business luncheons and corporate meetings. All this and more can be accommodated in a flexible space that seats up to 400 at tables. Amenities include fully customized menus and bar options, specialty linens, coat check, valet parking, setup and cleanup, and stateof-the-art audio/visual. Diamond Event Center is located off Prairie Parkway in south Cedar Falls.

Electric Park Ballroom 310 W. Conger St., Waterloo 319-232-5801 or karen@nationalcattlecongress.com www.nationalcattlecongress.com The Electric Park Ballroom at National Cattle Congress is a historic venue that can accommodate 1,000 people. It is an ideal location for wedding parties, banquets or conventions. We offer multiple amenities such as free parking, two full service bars, complimentary set up and tear down, name on the marquee. Our iconic ballroom features a 81’ x 63’ built in wooden dance floor with a built in stage and lights. We look forward to working with you.

Fox Ridge Golf Club Highway 20, Dike 319-989-2213 www.golfoxridge.com Accommodates 275 people; bookings one month in advance; business meeting space available; inhouse catering available to fit all budget needs; wedding rental requires $250.00 deposit (nonrefundable/applied toward final bill) and signed con-

tract to hold date. Please contact Ben Biersner at 319-989-2213 or ben@ golfoxridge.com to request more information.

Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center University of Northern Iowa campus Cedar Falls 319-273-3660 www.gbpac.com 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.

Grout Museum District & Snowden House 503 South St., Waterloo 319-234-6357 www.gmdistrict.org Main building accommodates up to 200, $350$750. Tables, chairs, set up and tear down included. Cash or open bar available. Full service kitchen. Dance floor. No on-site catering. Snowden House: Historic Victorian Italianate architectural style home. Accommodates up to 120. $50/ hr.

Tables, chairs, set up, tear down included. Kitchen available. No on-site catering. (Due to historic nature of facility, no dancing is allowed).

Hartman Reserve Nature Center 657 Reserve Dr., Cedar Falls 319-277-2187 www.hartmanreserve.org Accommodates up to 100; booking at least six months in advance; $400-8 hours on Saturday or $475 Fri. night/Saturday add $100 if serving alcohol; full kitchen, tables, chairs included; non-smoking; decks with scenic overview, bridge, outside amphitheater seats up to 100, fireplace.

Henderson Event Center 2320 Iowa Ave., Independence 319-334-6464 Our 12,000-square-foot event venue comfortably accommodates up to 500 guests, all of whom are sure to be impressed with the elegance of our facilities and the level of our service. Conveniently located off of U.S. Highway 20, and within close proximity to Waterloo, Cedar Falls and lodging, our event venue in Independence, Iowa is perfect for: Weddings, School dances, Corporate functions, Holiday parties and Retirement parties. ‌ ickory Hills Park H 3338 Hickory Hills Road, La Porte City (319) 266-6813 www.co.black-hawkia.s/depts/conservation 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.

Hilton Garden Inn 7213 Nordic Drive, Cedar Falls (319) 266-6611 www.HiltonGardenInnCedarFalls.com An inviting wedding location with a 5,117-squarefeet ballroom seating up to 340 guests comfortably in banquet style and a 1,450-square-feet pre-function area ideal for a social hour. Our full-service hotel features 113 beautiful appointed WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 29

RECEPTION HALL DIRECTORY guest rooms and suites all with two queens or one king bed. Guests can enjoy indoor saltwater pool and whirlpool, fitness room, exterior patios with fire pits and dine in the Garden Grille & Bar serving breakfast and dinner. Wedding room blocks available. Call our talented and experienced Sales & Catering team to help customize your special day,(319) 266-6611.

Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo 777 Isle of Capri Blvd., Waterloo www.islewaterloo.com/meetings/weddings Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo is an ideal location for your wedding, party, meeting or convention. Isle Waterloo features 5,000 feet of flexible meeting space and 1,600 square feet of pre-function space.

This space is ideal for groups of 270 people sitting banquet style or a 400-person cocktail reception.

Our professional planning and catering staff is ready to help you.

Janesville Riviera Roose Community Center 307 Maple St., Janesville (319) 987-3512 or (319) 231-7660 The center is a modern, fully accessible facility. Its small-town location on approximately 10 acres of land near the Cedar River provides an ideal setting for weddings and receptions, as well as reunions, anniversaries, retreats and business meetings.

The center features a large hall with banquet seating for 350, a wood dance floor, commercial kitchen, bar and large outdoor patio. Parking is adjacent to the building. For more details, visit www.jvrrcc.com.

LifeStyle Inn Cedar Falls 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls 319-277-2230, ext. 7322 www.lifestylecf.com Enjoy the convenience of reception and hotel accommodations under one roof; new banquet room The Cedar seats 150 people, mezzanine and plaza seat up to 350, banquet hall seats up to 300; full service catering, $18.95 to $22.95 per plate; free honeymoon suite with whirlpool for bridal couple; special overnight rates for wedding guests; rehearsal dinner, gift opening, bridal shower available; tables, chairs, linens, skirting, security, bar, bartender provided; some decorations provided, decorating 8 a.m. day of event; dance floor, table for DJ. New Against the Grain Bar and Restaurant.

head table as well as keeping the food line full at all times, two NCC bartenders and free parking.

Prairie Links Golf & Event Center 19 Eagle Ridge Drive, Waverly (319)242-7675 ext. 3-Stephanie Hahn Indoor reception 380 capacity; outdoor venue, seating up to 500. Complimentary set-up and tear-down. Included in rental: tables, chairs, bistro tables, ballroom, ballroom patio, cafe room, cloth napkins, table skirting, linens, chair covers, dance floor and bartenders.

Rotary Reserve 5932 N. Union Road, Cedar Falls (319) 266-6813 www.co.black-hawk.ia.us/depts/conservation Accommodates 300; book up to two years in advance; $650 for all day Saturday; package deals include $800 for both Friday and Saturday nights, $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.

Sunnyside Country Club 1600 Olympic Dr., Waterloo (319)234-1707 www.sunnysidecountryclub.com Available to non-members and members for weddings; seating up to 300 with overflow; booking depends on availability; competitive pricing; onsite sit-down or buffet-style catering only, starting $21 per plate; set-up and tear-down of tables, chairs, linens provided; fully staffed bar; decorating early allowed when available; dance floor.

For details, call (319) 234-1707 or email events@ sunnysidecountryclub.com.

Oster Regent Theatre 103 Main St., Cedar Falls (319) 277-5283 www.osterregent.org Accommodates 80-100; book early; $200, $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 80; linens rented for $3 each; beautiful view of the Cedar River; decorating day before depends on availability; hardwood dance floor.

University of Northern Iowa Commons-Slife Ballroom & Georgian Lounge West 23rd Street, Cedar Falls (319) 273-2333 catering.uni.edu Ballroom seats up to 230; additional space available in the neighboring lounge overlooking the campanile that can be used for ceremonies, pre-reception cocktails, etc.; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; 100% of room rental paid in advance; set-up and clean-up included; on-site catering by UNI Catering; bar service; tables, chairs, linens provided; sound system in ballroom; portable risers for band, DJ, head table; dance floor; additional decorations available to rent.

Pepsi Pavilion, National Cattle Congress grounds, Waterloo (319) 232-5801 or karen@nationalcattlecongress.com www.nationalcattlecongress.com If you are looking for a comfortable, relaxed open-concept venue, then the National Cattle Congress Pavilion is just right for you. Seating for 800 people; services included complimentary set-up and tear-down, name on the marquee, serving the

University of Northern Iowa Maucker Union Old Central Ballroom 1227 W. 27th Street, Cedar Falls studentlife.uni.edu/weddings catering.uni.edu (319) 273-5888 Ballroom accommodates 400+ banquet style with no need to remove any seating for your dance; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; deposit half of rental; set-up, clean-up, linens,

30 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020

table skirting, tables, chairs and staging included; on-site catering by UNI Catering; bar service; sound system and drop-down projectors available in ballroom; dance floor included; additional decorations available to rent.

Wartburg College Saemann Student Center, 100 Wartburg Blvd., Waverly (319) 352-8286 www.wartburg.edu/conferences/ Groups of 20-200. Full-service banquet facility with customized menu and event planning. Great location for rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. Food and service provided by the college.

Half of estimated total paid in advance; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar serves wine and beer.

AV equipment available; dance floor needs to be rented and brought in.

Waterloo Center for the Arts, Boat House and Riverloop Facilities 225 Commercial St., Waterloo (319) 291-4490 www.waterloocenterforthearts.org Beautiful and affordable riverfront spaces that can accommodate up to 250 indoors and 5000 outdoors. Amenities available include set-up and clean-up; newly renovated restrooms; kitchen; catering; beverage service; round or square tables; chairs; linens; ice table; pipe and drape; piano; sound system; stage; tents; dance floor.

Waterloo Elks Lodge 407 E. Park Ave., Waterloo (319) 234-7568 sherri@waterlooelks.com 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 Area Veterans Post 1300 Fourth St NW., Waverly (319) 483-9287 or wavp.events@gmail.com Open to public. Patriots Hall accommodates up to 300 guests. A dance floor can be customized to the size you prefer, up to 30’x30’. Choose own caterer; WAVP will provide the bar. Linens available to rent; tables, chairs provided. Cost is $1,100 for entire Patriots Hall, full rental required within 2 weeks of booking to secure date. If event doesn’t need entire hall, a temporary wall can divide the hall into two rooms. Patriots Hall West is $400 (up to 100 guests); Patriots Hall East is $500 (up to 200 guests). Friday decorating available for additional $250; entire day to decorate.

Waverly Golf and Country Club 705 Eighth St. SW, Waverly (319) 352-3855 www.waverlycc.com Open to public for rental; accommodates 275; $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.

THE PERFECT MATCH

â„¢

ROTH JEWELERS SINCE 1931

Bridal

Fashion

Custom

serviCe

GABRIEL & CO. GABRIELNY.COM

229 e. 5th street - downtown waterloo | 319-234-6979 | rothJewelers.Com

WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020 31

with us.

DiamondEventCenterCF.com m • (319)859-9324 32 WEDDINGS | SPRING 2020