Weddings - Summer 2014 by Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier

WEDDINGS Summer 2014

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contents Vol. 14, No. 8 | Summer 2014

love notes 5 color palettes 7 tips by josie 8 5 bride problems 9 pedicures 10 brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s checklist 11 brooch bouquet 12 groom guide 13 bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expenses real weddings 14 essa wedding

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essentials 22 destination wedding tips 24 wedding memories 26 outrageous weddings 27 signature drink 28 writing your own vows

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love notes

yellow

Publisher David A. Braton Advertising Director Tara Seible Editor Melody Parker 319-291-1429 melody.parker@wcfcourier.com Project Manager & Ad Sales Sheila Kerns 319-291-1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com Graphic Designer Michelle Houlgrave Contributing Writers/Sources Brandon Pollock, photographer The Knot Shutterstock June, July, August 2014 Weddings Magazine is published quarterly by Courier Communications and may be contacted at: 100 Fourth St., P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704. Copyright, Weddings, 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited. A publication of The Courier, Waterloo-Cedar Falls. Find Weddings Magazine on Facebook and cvweddings on Twitter.

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Let the sun shine in! Check out what’s new in the Bridal Planner!

When you register for the planner, you’ll receive the next three issues of Weddings Magazine in the mail!

Let us feature your big day as one of our Real Weddings! Contact Sheila Kerns at sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com or 319-291-1448

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Yellow is the color of happiness, so what better to choose as one of your wedding colors? You can choose a sunny, exuberant hue full of cheerfulness and warmth, or opt for a luminous shade that evokes thoughts of summer flowers, or the deep color of an autumn harvest. Not surprisingly, yellow plays nicely with many other colors and takes on many moods. p Yellow, gray and silver is an elegant combo. p Add aqua to yellow and white for a pop of color. p Yellow and black is sophisticated and contemporary, but use it judiciously. You don’t want bridesmaids to look like bumblebees! p Combining canary yellow, teal, fuschia and marigold orange creates excitement for an outdoor ceremony. p What could be fresher and springy than the classic combination of yellow and green? p Sunflower yellow pairs beautifully with chocolate brown and plum for a lush fall wedding.

WEDDINGS Summer 2014

Gown from Bill Levkoff Bridal

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love notes

orange

7 tips for a creative wedding with

Josie www.EventsByJosie.com

< Peek of color! Looking to add some color to your wedding dress? Some brides love the idea of adding color to their wedding dress but aren’t comfortable with doing an overall nontraditional color. In this case, just add a colored underskirt that peeks out the bottom of the dress. This is a unique touch, yet subtle. http://www.pinterest.com/pin/280560251760312055/ Kids can have fun too! If you can’t imagine your day without your nieces and nephews, then make sure there is something fun for them to do. Set aside a table with fun activities such as coloring, stickers, board games, or even make special menu for them to color. You could also hire face painters or a caricaturist for entertainment. Either way, kids and parents will both be happy.

Creative escort card displays Many brides still like to create assigned

seating. In this case, you will need escort cards. Get creative with their display. If you are having your wedding outdoors, get some old ladders and string name cards between each rung for a rustic theme. If you are having a vintage-themed wedding, you could get vintage frames and pin the cards to those. You can even double up and use your escort cards as your favor, such as having the person’s name attached to a cake pop or small bag of popcorn. The possibilities are endless! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/100134791685811489/

< Mason jar madness! There is a trend that isn’t going away anytime

Sophia Tolli bridesmaids dress

soon — the Mason jar! If you want an outdoorsy theme, the using Mason or Ball jars are a must! You can create centerpieces; place them on the tables as vases at varying heights or paint them different colors. Brides are also using them for guests’ drinking glasses for the night, accompanied with their name and table. You could also use them as favors, by putting snacks inside the jars. http://www.pinterest.com/pin/31384528626742920/

‘Orange’ you happy? Orange can be vivacious and extroverted, bright and upbeat, warm and earthy. It’s also one of fashion’s hottest colors in everything from dresses and handbags to lipsticks. The color is an attention-getter, fun and appealing. Some of the latest color combos for weddings include: p p p p p p

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Communicate details Labeling everything will make your displays at your wedding much better! It’s nice to let guests know what drinks you are hosting at the bar, so make a sign that tells them and frame it. If you have a candy bar display, label each candy by tying a pretty name card around the jar with a ribbon. Make menu cards for each place setting, or write the menu on a large chalkboard or mirror. These little details will add so much flair to your wedding! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/1055599883361260

Red-orange, aqua and yellow Teal, orange and cerulean blue Black, tan and orange Soft peachy-orange, pink and ivory Green, yellow and sunset orange Orange, eggplant purple, ivory, milk chocolate brown and olive green

Summer 2014 WEDDINGS

< “Scrapbook” guestbook Rather than a traditional guestbook that you will probably never read more than once, set out wedding advice cards with different questions on them. It will make for a fun scrapbook and you may be surprised by some of the funny and interesting comments your guests say! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/191191946654908572/

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love notes

things a bride will have to deal with

Pretty,

perfect pedi

are, strappy sandals and peep-toes mean bridal feet should look their best. Treat your feet to a pedicure, as long as you keep foot health in mind.

It’s important to ensure your pedicure is done properly, whether you’re doing it yourself at home or enjoying a professional treatment in a nail salon or spa. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) offers some pedicure pointers to help you love how your feet look and feel:

Q A

If I went to someone’s wedding, am I obligated to invite them to mine?

with a good soak in warm water for at least five minutes. This , Start will help soften calluses and prep feet for removing dry, rough skin.

It’s your party — if you don’t want them there, don’t feel guilted into sending an invite. Simply explain that your wedding is going to be very small, and with two families to accommodate, it’s just impossible to invite everyone you want to. This might be a difficult conversation, but if they like and respect you enough to have invited you to their wedding, they should understand where you’re coming from.

To exfoliate, use a pumice stone or foot file. Never use a foot razor to remove dead skin, and ban your pedicurist from using one on you. It’s too easy for a quick slip-up that could cause permanent damage or lead to serious infection.

Q A

A couple of my bridesmaids have complained about how expensive their dresses and other costs are adding up to be. How should I deal?

Be considerate. It’s likely that your maids will only wear this dress for a few hours, so don’t make them hock their car to be a part of your wedding. Choose a dress that’s reasonably priced — have them tell you what reasonable is — or work together with your party to find a dress that’s within both their style and budget. Brides aren’t required to pay for the dresses, but if you want to spring for something pricey, consider adding it on to your own budget or paying for half. Try to mitigate expenses elsewhere, too — if they’re buying the dresses, don’t make them also buy jewelry and shoes.

Q A

If some guests don’t RSVP, should we call them to find out if they’ll come? Or can we assume that they’re not coming?

As far as final head count goes, you should never assume. Call to see if they’re coming. You never know — maybe they think they sent the response card, but it may be hiding under a pile of mail. If calling is a problem, assume that they’re coming and make sure there’s enough food and seats for them. It’s better to have extra grub and room than it is to have neglected guests wondering where to sit!

Q A

We’re on a tight budget. Is it OK to invite single guests but not give them plus-ones?

Deal with this problem on a case-by-case basis. If you have unmarried friends and relatives in long-term relationships, consider inviting their partners. (Even though they’re not married, they’re committed.) Then, invite your more single friends and relatives without dates, rather than crossing them off your wedding guest list altogether. If anyone complains, simply explain your dilemma: It was important that they be there, but that you couldn’t afford to invite dates. Then, carefully consider where to seat them at the wedding; they may not want to get stuck at a table full of couples.

your legs a day or two before your professional pedicure, but not , Shave the day of. Shaving can cause minor abrasions and fissures in the skin, allowing bacteria to enter while your feet soak or the nail technician handles your feet. A little bit of stubble won’t bother her at all.

doing a home pedicure, use toenail clippers with a straight , When edge and cut nails straight across. Avoid other cutting tools, such as

manicure scissors, as they can increase the risk of ingrown nails. For salon pedicures, bring your own tools; shared tools can spread bacteria if they haven’t been properly cleaned. Use an emery board to smooth and round nail edges.

permit a nail technician to cut or trim cuticles, which protect , Never nail beds from bacteria. Instead, use a rubber cuticle pusher or liquid remover to gently push back cuticles just a little bit. Use a wooden or rubber manicure stick — never metal or anything sharp — to clean beneath nails.

polish after it’s been on for a while. Keeping nails polished for , Remove extended periods may promote fungal growth. Leave toe nails polishfree for a few days between pedicures.

pedicure, don’t walk around in flimsy flip-flops, especially the ones , Post salons sometimes give customers before they leave. They don’t provide adequate protection or support for your feet.

for foot-friendly products that have earned the APMA’s Seal of , Look Acceptance or Approval. Podiatrists have evaluated these products and found them to be beneficial to foot health.

Finally, never put up with foot pain. Discomfort and pain that lasts longer than several days could be a sign of a more serious problem or infection. Seek treatment from a podiatrist — the foot and ankle expert. Source: Brandpoint

My wedding photographer told me that she and her assistant expect meals during the wedding reception. Am I supposed to pay for their wedding meals, plus meals for other vendors, like the wedding band I hired?

Fall Weddings by the NUMBERS of weddings take place in September, the most popular month for weddings.

of weddings take place in October, the third most popular month.

It’s nice to feed your wedding professionals if they’re going to be working a four- to six-hour ceremony and reception. But if your photographer expects a meal, she should include that in her contract. Also remember that your caterer will make more food than is needed, “just in case,” so there will likely be plenty for your wedding professionals to munch on. Or arrange for your caterer to put together a quick platter for the photographer, musicians and others — simple sandwiches will do.

of weddings take place in November, which ranks ninth in popularity. Source: theknot.com

Source: WeddingChannel.com

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the bride’s checklist Six to 12 Months

❑❑ 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.

Two Months

❑❑ Mail the invitations. ❑❑ Get the marriage license. ❑❑ Finalize the honeymoon plans.

One Month ❑❑ Reserve accommodations for the groom. ❑❑ 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.

Brooch

BOUQUET

IY brides will love this bridal Brooch Bouquet created by Stephanie Hagen of Waterloo’s Dapper Design for her own wedding.

She asked bridal shower guests to each bring a brooch for her bouquet, and together with several antique brooches, made a form and wired on each glittering brooch. It took 70 to 80 brooches to create the bouquet, but it was worth the effort, she said. “My grandmother brought pins I’d seen her wear before to put in the bouquet. It turned out beautifully and has so many memories for me. Plus, it will last forever.”

Two Weeks ❑❑ Finalize wedding day transportation. ❑❑ Arrange to have names changed on driver’s license, Social Security card, etc.

One Week ❑❑ 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.

Wedding Day ❑❑ Relax and enjoy your very special day.

Biggs Photography

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Cost-control tips for

More grooms taking active role in wedding planning

bridesmaids-to-be

enerations ago, planning a wedding was 100 percent the bride’s job, but in today’s age of gender equity, it’s a mere 99 percent, says Dan Zevin, author of “The NearlyWed Handbook: How to Survive The Happiest Day of Your Life” (Kindle edition 2013). But today’s man wants to take a more active role in the process. Zevin offers these jobs where a groom can pitch in and help.

If you know credit will be a big part of your wedding party budget, monitoring your credit for a few months may help you manage your finances. Membership in a product like CreditReport.com offers members valuable tools to help them monitor their credit for a monthly fee.

Groom job 1: Plan the bar.

When it comes to cuisine, the crucial question is: cash bar or open bar? Once you’ve chosen the latter, tackle other meal-related matters. Will you keep your open bar open throughout the reception or for the first hour only? (Hint: throughout the reception.) What about hors d’oeuvres? Will your guests be sipping them through bottles, glasses or cans? Remember, you can’t please everyone. Therefore, it’s best to inscribe BYOB under RSVP on your wedding invitations. You may also want to consider serving some food.

When it’s time to say “yes”:

Once you have an idea of how you can budget, it’s time to have a candid discussion with the bride and groom. Let them know what you’re comfortable with, and what will be beyond your budget. Determine what their expectations are for the costs you’ll bear, and what they’ll pay for.

Groom job 2: Book the music.

Wedding musicians are expensive, so cut costs by asking your groomsmen to lip synch and air guitar to a playlist you’ll download from iTunes. Alternatively, you can hire a deejay. A deejay is an individual who sees your wedding as an opportunity to act out his fantasies of being Eddie Van Halen, Rock God, by dancing in place to all his favorite hits. Remind him that it is your special day, not his. Inform him that the song you’ve chosen for your first dance isn’t actually “Hot For Teacher.” Request that he blend into the background, perhaps by streaming his set to the dance floor from his booth in the banquet hall boiler room.

Groom job 3: Help manage the guest list.

Tradition dictates that the groom cut everyone off his list to make more room for his bride’s list. This is easier than it sounds. Just review all the people on your list and think of one reason not to invite them. Let’s start with your best man, “Bob.” Remember that time “Bob” borrowed your drill and returned it without recharging the battery? Put a big red slash through “Bob’s” name right now. Before you know it, the only one left on your list will be you. To demonstrate what a generous husband you’ll be, cut yourself from the list, too. Dude, you’ll be spending the rest of your life with your bride. Is it really going to kill you if you’re not together on one lousy day?

Groom job 4: Help register for gifts.

From the male point of view, there are three kinds of gifts: 1. things you already have; 2. things you don’t need; and 3. bowls. To help your guests select stuff you actually want, you may be tempted to register at offbeat places like Sports Authority and Home Depot. This is fine as long as you realize that no one’s going to get you anything from these places. They are going to get you bowls. So go help your bride pick out punch bowls, bisque bowls, bowls to hold other bowls. If you don’t, you’ll miss out on the most rewarding groom job of all: returning them for a full cash refund as soon as you get back from your honeymoon.

Groom job 5: Plan the honeymoon.

Choosing a destination typically falls to the man, which explains why many couples are slapped with steep penalty fees upon cancelling their flights to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Remember, your honeymoon is a time to rest, to recuperate, to experience the phenomenon of everyone being uncharacteristically nice to you.

tanding up for your friend as her maid of honor or bridesmaid is a special experience you’ll both remember all your lives. Yet your happiness for your friend, and your joy at participating in her wedding, can be tempered by concerns about the costs associated with being a member of the wedding party. Just like the bride and groom, attendants often need to use credit to fund their wedding experience, including the cost of a dress, gift for the happy couple, the bachelorette party and perhaps traveling to the wedding location. Still, if you rely too much on credit, you could end up with debt – which is a lot worse than a dress you’ll never wear again. Careful planning and an honest discussion with the bride and groom about cost control can help ensure no one overspends on the big day.

Before you agree:

p The first question you should ask yourself is: “Can I afford to be

in this wedding?” If the person asking for your participation is your best friend in the world, and saying “no” will harm your relationship, you’ll have to find a way to fund your bridesmaid duties without breaking the bank. But if the invitation comes from a friend you’re not particularly close to, it may be appropriate to decline, especially if the associated costs will be a financial hardship.

p When the answer has to be “yes,” your next move should be to

assess your finances. How much cash can you reasonably set aside between now and the time the bills start to arrive? How much of your participation will need to be funded through credit?

If you find that your financial abilities and their expectations are too far apart, give them the opportunity to reconsider their invitation for you to be in the wedding. Ironing out money matters at the beginning of the wedding planning process will help ensure you don’t have to distract the bride and groom with the discussion as their big day approaches and their stress levels go up.

When you’re committed:

Once you’ve said yes and agreed on expenses, it’s time to put your plan into action. Begin setting aside money right away, even if the wedding is a year away. The longer you have to save cash, the less you’ll need to rely on credit as the wedding approaches. Look for ways that you can cut expenses without impacting the wedding itself. For example, if the bridesmaid’s dress must come from a pricey boutique, perhaps you can find matching shoes for less at a different retail store. If you’ll be traveling to the wedding in another state — or even another country — shop for the best airline deal, and explore the possibility of using reward miles or hotel points to help defray your travel costs. Compromise with the bride: If she agrees to let you wear your favorite little black dress, rather than drop a few hundred on something new that you’ll never wear again, make it up to her by helping out in some other way. Perhaps you’re a skilled crafter who can make one-of-a-kind favors for the reception. Maybe your graphic design skills could help her save money on customdesigned invitations. Or perhaps you can use your flower-arranging skills to help her save money on centerpieces, boutonnieres and bouquets.

Source: McClatchy Newspapers

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fraz

&adrie details August 31, 2013 Minnesota History Center in St. Paul Wedding gown Justin Alexander, from Bridal Accents Couture Badgley Mischka wedding shoes Wedding planner Julia LaCroix Wedding Planning & Event Styling Photography A Truth Be Shown Photography Videography fotofilm studios DJ & lighting Instant request Flowers Sadieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Couture Floral & Event Styling Wedding cake Gateaux Ceremony & reception Minnesota History Center and Bon Appetit Management Co.

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pair of bagpipers skirled a welcome. Guests “oohed-and-

ahhed” as Adrie Wessels walked down the aisle in her wedding gown, a cloud of tulle swirling at her feet. Happy tears were shed as Adrie and Sarfaraz (Fraz) Essa pledged their love and exchanged vows. But perhaps the loudest noise heard on their wedding day, August 31, 2013, were jaws dropping in reaction to their stylish wedding venue, the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul. “We looked at a lot of different places, and we feel in love with this venue. We wanted something out of the ordinary, and from guests’ reactions we succeeded,” says Fraz. His aunt from Los Angeles told him she’d had low expectations when she heard about the venue chosen by the couple. “She said she was in ‘shock and awe’ at how beautiful it turned out. It even beat my expectations.” Adrie says the couple wanted their wedding to be fun and elegant, and “to be a celebration of love. We wanted to be surrounded by our family and friends. We’re all spread out across the country, and having everyone in one place and making memories together was wonderful.” She agrees their wedding venue was simply beautiful. “First and foremost, it’s a museum. The building is amazing. We had the ceremony and dance in the concourse with its huge floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the capitol. Cocktail hour took place on the Skyline Terrace where you can see the city skyline from one side and the Cathedral of St. Paul from the other side. “We liked the theme because it was very Minnesota, and it was important to us that we were able to

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show off our adopted city,” says Adrie, who grew up in Waterloo. Fraz grew up in Kansas. “Because it was an evening wedding, we wanted a glamorous evening that was sort of old Hollywood.” As gorgeous as the location was, it didn’t upstage the bridal party. Adrie wore an alabaster Justin Alexander gown — strapless, delicate buttons down the back of the dress, a sweetheart neckline and frothy mermaid hem. A rhinestone-adorned sash around her waist brought in the bling. Her bouquet was composed primarily of white calla lilies with purple centers. Bridemaids wore flowing, one-shouldered floorlength gowns in eggplant with sparkling brooches and carried bouquets of lavender roses, calla lilies and other white and dark purple blooms. The groom and groomsmen wore slim-fitting tuxedos in classic black with white shirts. For the ceremony, the concourse was warmed up with professional uplighting — and the last amber light of day streaming in the broad windows. The couple, their attendants and officiant, their close friend Ryan Trigg, stood on an elevated platform flanked by massive silver urns filled with shiny silver branches, dangling crystals and flowers. Purple pillows purchased from Ikea, candles and flowers dressed up the Skyline Terrace. The reception took place on the upper level above the atrium. Vases, crystals, silver candlesticks and other decorations adorned tables covered in dark purple

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tablecloths. Updalla chocolates in ribbon-tied packages were at each place setting. The menu was catered by the museum, including salads from local greens, black trumpet crusted tenderloin with rosemary cream served with buttermilk mashed potatoes and haricot vert, roasted chicken with juniper martini beurre blanc served with rosemary baby red potatoes and sea-salt roasted asparagus and butternut squash ravioli with truffled sage bisque served with wilted lacinato kale. The wedding cake came from Gateaux, Inc., the custom cake makers who made actress Betty White’s 90th birthday cake and have been featured in numerous national wedding magazines. The three-tiered cake was white with raspberry filling and devil’s food with fudge filling, decorated with sugar hydrangea flowers and topped with love birds, a theme Adrie and Fraz chose for their invitations and other stationery. A DJ handled music for dancing in the concourse. While guests were dining, the museum crew “flipped” the concourse, removing ceremony decorations and installing a dance floor and tables and chairs. For the first dance, Fraz whirled Adrie onto the dance floor to “Our Song.” “I vaguely remember the music starting and stopping and thinking, ‘Wow, we’re married.’ It was a special moment but it went so quickly.” After the wedding, the newlyweds spent their honeymoon on the beach and water in Aruba.

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destination weddings expert tips for keeping it affordable Dan Phillips Photography

hese days, one in four weddings is a destination wedding, giving couples — and their guests — a reason to blend the joy of a marriage celebration with a fun and memorable vacation. Planning a destination

wedding suitable for all your attendees is easier than you think, thanks to some key insights from expert wedding planner Cheryl Cox.

Nine to 12 months is the optimum planning time, especially for a destination wedding. Many couples start planning a destination wedding as soon as they get engaged. While the summer months are typically most popular for couples, when choosing a date, considet a Friday or weekday wedding, or planning the big day during the less-crowded but still desirable shoulder seasons (spring and fall).

Consider a location with something for everyone. Myrtle Beach, S.C., is one example. The destination offers pristine greens for golf enthusiasts, museums and historic plantations for cultural buffs, delicious Coastal Carolina cuisine for the foodies, fun in the sun with a day at the beach or one of the many water parks, and for brides looking for some quality time with the girls, numerous spas for a day of pampering. Plus, there are plenty of lodging options for your guests including oceanfront resorts, beach home rentals and quaint bed and breakfasts.

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Beautiful and unique ceremony locations are one of the perks of having a destination wedding. “Research wedding venues, travel and accommodation options, and rates, then rank the venues you like best,” suggests Cox.

Travel is the foundation for long-lasting memories. In fact, a recent Harris Interactive survey found 62 percent of adults said their earliest memories were of family vacations taken when they were between ages 5 and 10. Help your guests — particularly families with young ones — get the most out of their trip by suggesting activities or even making reservations for dinners, tee times, theme parks, museums, etc., before arrival.

Planning a destination wedding doesn’t need to be stressful — hire a wedding planner. “Wedding planners know the local wedding professionals and venues including the city regulations for beach weddings,” says Cox. The perfect beach wedding can be accomplished with the help of a wedding planner as they know the ins and outs of planning a beautiful beach wedding so couples and their guests can enjoy the true beauty of a beachside wedding.

“If possible, attend a local wedding show to meet wedding professionals one-on-one or plan a wedding planning trip to visit venues and meet with wedding vendors,” Cox suggests. “Remember to take notes so you can recall all the details when you’re back home.”

Dan Phillips Photography

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Give yourself peace of mind by purchasing the appropriate wedding insurance.

Start your marriage off on the right financial foot by keeping your wedding on-budget. Many couples planning destination weddings find them to be similar or even more affordable than traditional weddings back home.

Don’t forget to enjoy the experience of planning this memorable day and enjoying the company of your guests. Take pictures, sample cakes, pick out flowers and remember these moments and the beautiful destination you’ve selected. Source: Brandpoint

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Crash course on sharing your wedding memories

our wedding photos are unique and stylish, and they deserve to be seen the world over. Just a few

years ago, when the wedding was over you were left with a book of photos, a disc of digital images and a lot of lovely memories.

That’s nothing to complain about, of course, but these days, thanks to social networks, countless wedding blogs, Pinterest, Facebook and plentiful national and local bridal publications (like Weddings magazine) and websites like www.wcfcourier.com/weddings), you can showcase your special day to an audience well beyond your guest list. Whether you’d prefer to keep your wedding story — the beauty, the blunders and all your hard work! — all in the friends and family, or share it to the world, read on for a crash course in how to do it right.

Social media

If you simply want to show off your favorite pictures and, most importantly, wax poetic about the wedding details you found most interesting in your own voice, then social-media platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, Tumblr and Twitter are an easy and efficient way to go. Just make sure you check in with your photographer first and get permission to do so, warns Sharon Naylor, author of more than 30 wedding books, including “The Bride’s Guide to Freebies: Enhancing Your Wedding Without Selling Out” (Lyons Press, 2012). Yes, you hired your photographer to take pictures at your event, but depending on the photo package you purchase, the photographer may still own the copyright. “Different photographers have different rules, and you don’t want to get in legal trouble or receive angry requests to remove your posts,” Naylor says. Another thing to keep in mind is that there are nasty people out there who take delight in posting insults or criticism on public websites, Naylor notes. Your choices are to ignore any less-than-glowing reviews, or, if possible, consider making your account or album private so that only select people can take a peek. This also prevents the etiquette mistake of jamming up your contacts’ feeds with tons of individually posted photos, Naylor says. Public or private, be considerate — some of your guests may prefer their image not be shared with anyone, especially if they were caught in an unflattering moment.

Marketplace

Looking to showcase your wedding in a prettier package? You can submit to the “real weddings” section in Weddings magazine, national publications like Brides magazine or Martha Stewart Weddings or numerous wedding style blogs like Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes, 100 Layer Cake, Snippet & Ink and more. An issue of the magazine or PDF file of the post makes a lovely keepsake, and let’s face it — it feels good to know other people thought your wedding was as special as you did. That said, not every wedding can be chosen. The parties that pique interest feel fresh and unique, they’re full of inspiration and beenthere-done-that wisdom for future brides and grooms. They’re also

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jam-packed with great area vendor leads for brides-to-be currently planning their own special day. And don’t forget they include detail shots that highlight things like your incredible dessert table, hip paper goods, creative table top and awesome venue — you know, the same reasons engaged-you loved realwedding stories, too. Most outlets will provide instructions for the kinds of wedding submissions they want, but one of the most helpful articles is an SMP Backstage post called “Getting Your Wedding Out of the Slush Pile,” by Abby Larson, founder of the Style Me Pretty blog and author of “Style Me Pretty Weddings: Inspiration and Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration” (Clarkson Potter, 2012). It’s a must-read when you consider the fact that Style Me Pretty gets around 600 submissions per week. Larson says, “If we could find one word that really encompasses what we look for in a submission, it would be ‘refinement.’ Not in the traditional sense of the word, though. What we mean is a cohesive style and edited, clean photography... . We love to feature wedding styles of all shapes and sizes, but a perfect submission is one that tells a story through simple, well-executed photographs and details.” That story that Larson is looking for can start with the sweet “getting ready” shots and simple photographs of the gown, makeup, jewelry and bridesmaids, and transition into the first look, ceremony, reception and, to bring the story to a close, the last kiss. “Within that story, we love to see details that are steal-worthy, that are photographed in a simple, editorial way and that scream chic,” Larson says. “We want photojournalistic images to get a sense of the real vibe of the day, alongside clean, thoughtful shots of all those little touches that the bride put so much love into.” Again, you must get approval from your photographer before you submit images, and you want to be considerate of your guests. But there’s also submission etiquette. Most outlets want exclusivity, so it’s polite to only submit to one at a time. If you happen to get a “pass,” try to understand that it’s in no way a judgment on the fabulousness of your big day. You can always submit to another publication. In the meantime, flip through the pages of your photo album again, because, after all, YOU are the audience that matters most.

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Over-the-top

wedding celebrations

Call it outrageous or simply fun and inventive, but some couples happily pull out all the stops for their weddings. Would you dare?

1 Craig Rouch takes a bite out of his bride April’s bacon bouquet before their wedding during the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. 2 Groom Teerachai Sittiphol and bride Pasanan Thetyukunnthon ride on a decorated swing as they shoot an arrow to a heart-shaped target during their wedding ceremony in eastern Thailand. 3 Suriya Utai and Praewpan Srichamnan ride on a swing during their wedding ceremony on the eve of St. Valentine’s Day.

Toast your big day with a signature cocktail

oasting the bride and groom is a significant and sentimental ritual. Many couples choose to serve a beverage as unique as the distinctive event they have planned, said Denise Heflin, server for 13 years at the lounge and bar of the RitzCarlton, St. Louis. “Sometimes a fun glass starts the drink,” she said. A martini glass often symbolizes the distinctive occasion. Of course, working in the newly renovated Lobby Lounge of the Ritz-Carlton St. Louis where the martini list changes with the seasons and featured drinks change weekly, what goes in the glass (or mug) is significant, too. “Drinks can be warm or cold, depending on the season,” she said.

“People like to serve something special later in the evening, too. As an after-dinner drink with a dessert bar, an assortment of espresso, chocolate and gooey butter cake martinis is fabulous,” Heflin suggested. The Ritz-Carlton’s unique creation can be made at your wedding, too. Work with your bartender to increase the number of servings for your guests

Gooey Butter Cake Martini Makes one serving

1 oz. Three Olives Cake Vodka 0.5 oz. Frangelico 0.5 oz. Amaretto 0.5 oz. Butterscotch Schnapps 1 oz. Godiva White Chocolate liqueur Powdered sugar Ice In a shaker with ice, combine the vodka and liqueurs. Dampen rim of martini glass and press into powdered sugar. Pour martini into glass and serve.

A signature drink can be offered many ways: as a welcome drink, with dinner, flowing from an ice bar.

4 Wichan Vina, right, holds the hand of his bride Wilailuk Roongros, who fell on the ground as the both run from a giant ball decorated with flowers, called Run Way of Love. 5 Pasanan Thetyukunthon and groom Theerachai Sittiphol, left, are chased by mock pirates during a pirate hunt part of their wedding. 6 Maybe it was a great idea at the time, but a Death Star cake isn’t exactly a signature look for a wedding. 7 We love having pets, especially dogs, at a wedding. But give them a little dignity, please, by not dressing them up as bride and groom.

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Planning to write your own vows?Read this first Speaking from the heart can mean reciting traditional wedding vows, or personalizing the ceremony by writing your own vows.

Meet with your clergyman/officiant. Discuss the tone you want to set with your ceremony. It’s a chance to share how you met, what you’re like as a couple, what you love about each other, etc. Your officiant can give you ideas to personalize the event or offer insight into writing your own vows. Make sure your officiant will allow personalized vows.

Reception Hall Directory His 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. To assist our readers, here’s a listing of metro area reception halls: American Legion Post 138, 619 Franklin St., Waterloo, 234-8511 Open to public, accommodates 100-150; book early; $250 per floor, $50 deposit; kitchen, bartender costs extra; no onsite catering; tables, chairs included, linens not; decorating one to two hours before; dance floor. Barmuda – Park Place Event Centre, 1521 Technology Pkwy., Suite B, Cedar Falls, 277-1255, www.barmuda.com/park_place/weddings.php 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.

Stick with traditional vows and rituals for a more spiritual tone to your ceremony. Some houses of worship require a specific set of vows. In some instances, you can pair faith-related or religious elements recited by your pastor with your own recitations to each other. Most officiants will need to review your personal vows in advance.

Beaver Hills Country Club, 8230 Beaver Hills Dr., Cedar Falls, 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.

Make sure you and your intended are on the same page. Will you write your vows separately or together; do you want to recite some of the same promises to each other? Are you both comfortable with the idea of writing your own vows?

Black’s Sky Room/Tea Room, 501 Sycamore St., No. 710, contact Vern Nelson, 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 Womans Club, 304 Clay St., Cedar Falls, 266-1431 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 Rd., (East of Hawkeye Community College), 226-4966, www.cedarvalleyarboretum.org A variety of garden settings will accommodate 200 guests. $100 non-refundable deposit to reserve date a minimum of 60 days in advance. Balance and damage deposit due one week prior. Restrooms and limited electrical access to the gardens. Gardens remain open to the public. Smoking prohibited. No rice, bird seed, confetti, rose petals or balloons. Also available for bridal shower and rehearsal dinner. Centennial Oaks Golf Club, Eagle Ridge Dr., Waverly, 483-1765, ask for Lisa 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. Center Inn Banquet Facilities, 209 Main St., Readlyn, 279-3839, www.centerinn.com Dining room accommodates up to 75, ballroom accommodates up to 400; banquet room rental SundayThursday, $150, Friday and Saturday, $300; dining room

rental Monday-Sunday, $75; basement rental $50; deposit and credit billing $100, required to confirm all bookings, nonrefundable; post-event clean up, $100. The Centre Hall, 1211 4th St., SW, Waverly, 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. Clarion Inn, 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls, 277-2239, ext. 322, www.clarioncedarfalls.com Enjoy the convenience of your reception and hotel accommodations under one roof; brand new banquet room called “The Cedar” seating 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 bride and groom; 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 disc jockey. New Against the Grain Bar and Restaurant. Electric Park Ballroom, 310 W. Conger St., Waterloo, 233-3050, www.nationalcattlecongress.com Accommodates 600 banquet style, fire code allows 1,200; book at least six months in advance, $650.00 for facility, $250 deposit: on site catering only, buffet and sit-down; cold meat buffet $11, one meat $13, two meat $15 per person approx., per plate (depending on selection). Includes set up, clean up, two bartenders. Tables and chairs provided, linens may be rented. Wood dance floor, stage. Decorating day before depends on availability; no decorations from ceiling or light fixtures. (Historic Venue)

Read what other couples have written for personal vows in books and online. Use them for inspiration; borrow from poetry, religious texts, romantic movies.

Spend some “me-time” actually thinking about how you feel. Vows can be touching, romantic, poetic, a little bit humorous, but should include reasons why you love him/ her, what you’re looking forward to in your life together and the promises you’re making. Don’t make them so personal that it’s embarrassing for guests. Your words should be heartfelt and include everyone in the moment.

Start early. Create an outline. Write and edit your vows far in advance of the wedding; don’t wait until the last minute or think you can just “wing it” at the ceremony.

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Don’t make it too long. Pick the highlights and save the rest for reception toasts.

Practice, practice, practice out loud so you don’t falter or stumble over words. Likely you’ll have them memorized, but it’s OK to use a written copy as a cheat sheet.

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Fox Ridge Golf Club, Highway 20, Dike, 989-2213, www.golffoxridge.com 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 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, 234-6357, www.gmdistrict.org carrie.gleason@gmdistrict.org Main building accommodates up to 230 banquet style, $350$750. Tables, chairs, linens, set up and tear down included. Cash or open bar available. Full service kitchen. Dance floor. No on-site catering. Snowden House: Historic Victorian Italiante architectural style home. Accommodates up to 150. $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, 277-2187, www.hartmanreserve.org Accommodates up to 100; booking at least six months in advance; $400-8 hours on Saturday or $475 Fri. nite/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. Hickory Hills Park, 3338 Hickory Hills Rd., La Porte City, 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 Conference Center 7213 Nordic Dr., Cedar Falls, 266-6611 New Hilton opened in 2012, elegant dining and entertaining of Hilton standards. Full service hotel with Ballroom seating up to 350 people. Garden Grille Restaurant and Bar open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as large exterior patios with firepits. Full service dining on site, Chefs with banquet menus and banquet bars available. Deposits and minimums required, full payment required prior to event. Guest room blocks available.

meetings. The center features a large hall with banquet seating for 350, a wood dance floor, commercial kitchen, bar and a large outdoor patio. Parking is adjacent to the building. For more details, visit www.jvrrcc.com. Knights of Columbus, 1955 Locke Ave., Waterloo, 234-6908, ask for Jim 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.osterregent.org Accommodates 80-100; book early; $200, $50 deposit; no onsite catering; can serve own alcohol but cannot sell to guest; 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. Pepsi Pavilion, National Cattle Congress grounds, 232-5801, www.nationalcattlecongress.com Details: Accommodates up to 500 banquet seating (buffet style only), 1,000 fire code. $550 rental, $250 deposit. On-site catering only, no outside food or beverage. Catered meals start at $11 depending on selections: Cold meat, 1 or 2 meat, etc. Tables and chairs included, set up, clean up, two bartenders, stage and wood dance floor. Linens may be rented. Decorating the day before depending on availability. Ramada Hotel and Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center 205 W. 4th St., Waterloo, 233-7560 www.ramadawaterloo.com Conveniently located in downtown Waterloo, able to accommodate 50 to 1200 people in our uniquely customizable spaces. Rental prices range from $800.00 to $1000.00 depending on space need for the special day. Rental fee is an inclusive price, no “hidden fees”. Rental includes your setup, teardown, and cleanup; as well as all tables, chairs, linens, place settings, dance floor, and so much more. Customizable dinner (both buffet and plated) menus provided by our professional on-site catering staff for your rehearsal dinner, reception and gift opening. Full bar service with many customizable options to fit your guests needs. Feel free to book the space in advance, no limitations to how far in advance you may book. Call us today to meet with our sales team and to tour the facility. Unique Features: The hotel and convention center are connected via sky-walk to offer ease of access for guests; the hotel is also connected via sky-walk to the parking garage. We gladly offer a complimentary night stay for the happy couple on the night of their reception. Discounted room blocks for the couples family and friends. Special packaging rates apply for events that have multiple functions with us (e.g. rehearsal dinners, reception, ceremonies, and gift openings). We offer truly customizable menus to fit all of your needs.

Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo, 777 Isle of Capri Blvd., Waterloo 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 create your next memorable event. For more information visit theislewaterloo.com/meetingssaleskit.aspx or call 319-833-2266 to speak with a professional planner today.

Rotary Reserve, 5932 N. Union Rd., Cedar Falls, 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 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.

Janesville Riviera Roose Community Center, 307 Maple St., Janesville (319) 987-3512 or (319) 231-7660 The center is a modern, fully accessible facility managed by the Community Center Board of Directors. 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

Sunnyside Country Club, 1600 Olympic Dr., Waterloo, 234-1707, www.sunnysidecountryclub.com Open to public for weddings; ballroom seats 315; booking depends on availability; competitive pricing; on-site sit-down or buffet-style catering only, average $23 per plate; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; decorating early allowed; dance floor. Contact Amber Urban for details at 319-232-6450 or at events@sunnysidecountryclub.com.

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The Supervisors’ Club, 3265 Dewitt Rd., Waterloo, 233-4202, www.supervisorsclub.webs.com We offer a full service, fully accessible, non-smoking facility with ample parking which accommodates up to 400 people, some restrictions apply. Full-service bar, AV packages, space for your DJ or band, a dance floor and much more. Create a personalized meal for you and your guests with our many menu options. Our full-time Event Coordinator will help you plan all of the details. Located off of Ridgeway Avenue between Waterloo and Cedar Falls. For more information, call The Supervisors’ Club or visit www.supervisorsclub.webs. com. University of Northern Iowa Slife Ballroom and Georgian Lounge, 1227 W. 27th St., Cedar Falls, 273-2333, www.uni.edu/dor/dining/catering 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/catering, union-reservations@uni.edu Ballroom accommodates up to 480 banquet style with no need to remove any seating for your dance; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; $400-800 with deposit half of rental; set up, clean up, linens, table skirting, tables, chairs and staging included; on-site catering provided by UNI Catering; bar service; non-smoking; sound system and drop down projectors available in ballroom; dance floor included. Wartburg College, 100 Wartburg Blvd., Waverly, 3528286, www.wartburg.edu/studentcenter 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; 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, 225 Commercial St., Waterloo, 291-4490, www.waterloocenterforthearts.org Accommodates up to 250; book 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, Sherri Simon, sherri290@qwestoffice.net Room rental $750; 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.waverlycc.com 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.

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