Weddubgs - Spring 2018

weddings A publication of Courier Communications

wcfcourier.com/weddings

SOMETHING

BLUE ...

SAYING THANK YOU BOHO WEDDING IDEAS LATEST TRENDS

XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2018 2018 1

Home Garden cv-hg.com

Coming in The Courier and racks

February, May, August & November 2018

Make your House a Home

Available Hy-Vee’s, Fareway and other prime Northeast Iowa locations including Cedar Rapids and Iowa City For more information contact Sheila Kerns at: 319-291-1448 or sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com 2 | WED DI N GS s prin g 2 0 1 8 w c fc ou r ier. c om / w e d d i n g s

Contents Love notes 5 6 7 8 9

Something blue ... color palette Lovely spring bouquets 5 great love songs Saying ‘thank you’ Sweet fragrance

Features

11 Encouraging mingling 12 Favors get personal 13 Watch-worthy trends 17 Gown details we love 22 Plan a boho wedding 24 Involving grandparents 26 Do-it-together for fun 28 Floral jewelry

Departments 18 Bridal checklist 29 Reception hall directory

w c fc o u ri e r.c o m/ w e d d i n g s WE D DI N G S s pr ing 2018 | 3

Every love story is made with moments to treasure.

Make this one memorable with Moment in Thyme catering.

Schedule a consultation today! www.momentinthyme.com

chef@momentinthyme.com | 319.505.3029

PUBLISHER Roy D. Biondi PUBLISHER PUBLISHER RoyD. D.Biondi Biondi ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Roy Tara Seible ADVERTISINGDIRECTOR DIRECTOR ADVERTISING Tara Seible EDITOR Tara Seible Melody Parker EDITOR 319-291-1429 EDITOR MelodyParker Parker melody.parker@wcfcourier.com Melody 319-291-1429 319-291-1429 melody.parker@wcfcourier.com PROJECT MANAGER & AD SALES melody.parker@wcfcourier.com Sheila Kerns PROJECTMANAGER MANAGER ADSALES SALES 319-291-1448 PROJECT &&AD SheilaKerns Kerns sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com Sheila 319-291-1448 319-291-1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/SOURCES sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com Brandon Pollock, photographer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/SOURCES CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/SOURCES Associated Press Brandon Pollock,photographer photographer Brandon Pollock, Washington Post Associated Press Associated Tribune NewsPress Service Washington Post Washington Post Brandpoint Tribune News Service Tribune News Service The Knot Brandpoint Brandpoint Shutterstock TheKnot Knot The Shutterstock Shutterstock April, May, June 2018 October, November, December April, May, June 2018 2017 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, 2016.

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.

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

Check out what's new Check out Check out in the Bridal what's new what's new Planner! in in the theBridal Bridal Planner!

Planner!

weddings gs ings wed edddin w ESSENTIALS

ENTIALS ESSent ials ess

R BRIDAL PLANNE 2018

A PUBLICATION

OF WEDDINGS

MAGAZINE, COURIER

COMMUNICATIONS 1

s

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

Weddings Weddings Magazine Magazine in inthe themail! mail!

R BRIDAL PLANNE r Bridal planne Let us feature your big day as one of our Real Weddings!

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

Let us feature your big day as one of our Real Weddings!

Contact Sheila Kerns at sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com or 319-291-1448 Contact Sheila Kerns at sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com or 319-291-1448 wcfcourier.c om/wedding

4 | W EDD I NG S spri n g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

OF WEDDINGS

2018

A PUBLICATION

2017

a Publication

MAGAZINE, COURIER

COMMUNICATIONS

1

s ications wcfcourier.c om/wedding , Courier Commun s Magazine of Wedding

1

love notes | color palette

���� ...

SOMETHING

Everyone loves blue, but you can’t seem to settle on just one hue. So why should you? Incorporate several shades of blue to create your color scheme and carry it through your bridal party’s attire, wedding cake, invitations, decorations and table settings and flowers.

Blue works with any season, but is particularly cool and beautiful for spring and summer (but who’s going to argue with icy blue for a winter wedding? Not us!)

1

I f you’re a bride who dares to be different, tap into one of 2018’s hottest trends — blue for your wedding gown.

2

On the dark and dramatic side, a dark blue cake is glamorous, elegant and a perfect neutral, especially for a formal wedding.

3

Layer blues and mix textures at table settings for your reception. Napkins, runners, china ... it all comes

2

together to make a statement.

4

A sapphire and diamond necklace will look perfect at the neckline of your wedding gown. It’s the kind of gift a thoughtful groom might give his bride.

1

5

Your florist will have plenty of options incorporating blue into your flowers. This wedding bouquet is composed of agapanthus (lily of the Nile), nigella damacena (love in a mist) and hydrangea.

3

5

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTOS

w c f c ou r i e r.c o m/ w ed d i n g s W E D DI N G S s pr ing 2018 | 5

Lovely

SPRING

BOUQUETS

‌Spring flowers bloom with glorious and reckless abandon.

From the softest whites, pinks and other pastels to the boldest purple, there isn’t a single blossom that wouldn’t be perfect for a wedding bouquet.

What else is perfect? Availability. In the spring you can get practically any flower you desire — peonies, roses, ranunculus, hydrangea, lilac, tulip, lily ... even sweet peas.

Here are a few of lovely spring bouquets.

6 | WEDD I NG S spri n g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

5love songs great

‌Tastes change with the times, and so do popular wedding songs (the Baroque classic Pachelbel’s Canon has shown real staying power). Keeping many choices in mind, here are five songs that seem to speak to modern lovebirds:

1. “All of Me,” John Legend Singing “’Cause all of me/ Loves all of you/ Love your curves and all your edges/ All your perfect imperfections,” Grammy-winning R&B artist Legend doesn’t just channel his love for his wife (and model) Chrissy Teigen, he proclaims it.

After analyzing more than 400,000 wedding-themed playlists worldwide, Spotify in 2015 named the song the top choice for tying the knot.

2. “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran British singer-songwriter Sheeran made a splash when his video for 2014’s “Thinking Out Loud” debuted, featuring him sashaying with “So You

Think You Can Dance” contestant Brittany Cherry, who was clad in a white dress.

“And, darling, I will be loving you ‘til we’re 70/ And, baby, my heart could still fall as hard at 23,” Sheeran croons, later belting, “Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars.”

The mid-tempo guitar- and piano-fueled song, which won two Grammys, including 2015 song of the year, is a favorite wedding tune for Brides magazine readers.

3. “Make You Feel My Love,” Adele Backed by a steady piano melody, mega-hit-maker Adele’s 2008 cover of Bob Dylan’s 1997 song “Make You Feel My Love” doesn’t just ooze melancholy romance; it showcases her instantly recognizable soulful voice. The song was on her first studio album, “19.”

“When the rain is blowing in your face/ And the whole world is on your case/ I could offer you a warm embrace/ To make you feel my love,” Adele sings at the beginning, filling each note with a raspy warmth.

4. “Amazed,” Lonestar With lyrics such as, “I wanna spend the rest of my life/ With you by my side,” Lonestar’s 1999 twangy power ballad “Amazed” has become a favorite for country music lovers.

Oodles of videos on YouTube show couples doing their first dance to the tune.

5. “At Last,” Etta James With its sweeping violin melody and James pouring her heart out, “At Last” has a timeless quality. Short and direct, its poetic lyrics muse about finding and keeping love. “My heart was wrapped up in clover/ The night I looked at you,” James intones.

A few other popular modern options: “Marry You” (2010) by Bruno Mars

“Ho Hey” (2012) by The Lumineers

“A Thousand Years” (2011) by Christina Perri

“You Are the Best Thing” (2008) by Ray LaMontagne

“I Won’t Give Up” (2012) and “I’m Yours” (2008) by Jason Mraz Source: Associated Press

The Elks Lodge Rehearsal Dinners Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Anniversaries Special Events Business Meetings

407 EAST PARK AVENUE DOWNTOWN WATERLOO For more information or to schedule a tour, call Sherri Simon at

319-234-7568

Accuratingss 2013-14

™

“We can create any nationally advertised designer's rings for 1/2 the price, and much more...”

Precieux Art Jewelers DIAMOND - ENGAGEMENT AND CUSTOM DESIGN SPECIALISTS

IOWA’S HIGHEST RATED JEWELERS In Front of Kohl’s in Cedar Falls 277-0717 www.thediamondstore.com

w cf c ou r i e r.c o m/ w e d di n g s W E D DI N G S s pr ing 2018 | 7

Custom Bridal Bouquets • Décor Rental • Milroy’s Tuxedo Rentals Accessories

220 E. Bremer Ave, Waverly

FREE CONSULTATIONS! www.loveandlace.net loveandlacefloral@gmail.com Call 319-352-0243 and start planning your wedding today!

FOLLOW US

AP PHOTO‌

A wedding thank-you note created using the Bond Gifting Inc. company’s robotic technology, which mimics handwriting. Customers can choose from different handwriting styles or Bond can digitize your handwriting to create a personal style for your notes.

‘thank you’ HOW TO SAY

CEDAR VALLEY'S PREMIER WEDDING & BANQUET FACILITY Weddings • Office Parties Business Meetings • Seats 300 Full Service Bar & Catering Beautiful Setting Experienced Staff Conveniently Located Only Minutes from Cedar Falls On Highway 20 in Dike, Iowa

319.989.2213

‌NEW YORK (AP) — Newlyweds say it’s hard to organize a big task like writing 100 or more notes by hand — especially when they’re exhausted after months of wedding planning. Some even blame their bad penmanship.

But gift-givers blame bad manners.

Here’s why wedding thank-you notes still matter, along with strategies and ideas for getting them done — including hiring a card-writing service.

DO WE NEED THANK-YOU NOTES? “Most of us have been in the position of not receiving a thank-you note, but it feels particularly disappointing when your generosity seems to go unnoticed by a bride and groom,” said Evie Granville, who writes about manners with Sarah Davis at EvieandSarah.com .

But thank-you notes are not just a polite tradition. If newlyweds don’t say thanks, HOW ABOUT EMAIL THANK-YOUS? Traditionalists say nope, but in the era of some guests worry their gift was lost.

www.golffoxridge.com 8

|

Alexis Monson, cofounder of a note-writing service called Punkpost, says “many of us aren’t even used to writing one sentence every day with a pen in our hands, so the thought of writing many, many thoughtful and beautiful cards just makes people shut down.”

Other obstacles: bad handwriting, not knowing what to say, or losing track of who gave which gift. (Use a gift tracker app, spreadsheet, or just a pen and notepad to remember.)

Punkpost handwrites thank-you notes — or any type of correspondence — for $6 a card, including mailing (first one free).

Customers pick from different handwriting styles, but Monson says the “goal is never to mimic someone’s handwriting. Our goal is to help people make good on their good intentions.”

W EDD I NG S s p r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om / w e d d i n g s

4 romantic fragrances for the bride ‌Float down the aisle on a faint cloud of fragrance to meet your intended. One of these scents could be the finishing touch to polish your bridal look.

LOCAL ENGRAVERS Custom Art - Quick Production

LA VIE EST BELLE

As you walk your path to happiness, “Life is beautiful,” the French say. This scent is happy and feminine with aromas of lovely irises, patchouli and sweet praline with floral notes of sambac, jasmine and Tunisian orange blossoms.

KAT VON D BEAUTY’S SAINT

Soft, alluring and dreamy, this fragrance is a sweet bouquet of jasmine and tiare flower with notes of mandarin orange, caramel and Mirabelle plum. Vanilla, sandalwood and creamy musk build romance and warmth. Wear it alone or layered with Kat Von D’s sister fragrance, “Sinner.”

MISS DIOR BLOOMING BOUQUET

What could be more perfect for a bride than this sparkling, romantic fragrance that is a delicate blend of Sicilian orange essence and notes of pink peony and Damascus rose, with white musks as a finishing touch.

1111 South St, Waterloo, IA 50702 319.235.1681 319.235.9770

www.sandeesltd.com

MIU MIU L’ EAU ROSE

A soft floral fragrance created from sweet lily of the valley, black currant cassis wrapped in notes of sophisticated musk. The appealing scent is packaged in an iconic matelasse bottle of transparent glass with navy blue collar, beautiful on a bride’s vanity table.

THANK YOUS ... the paperless wedding, paperless thank-yous may be inevitable.

Lindsey McGuirk sent her invitations via email, so she did the thank-yous that way too. But each gift-giver got a personalized message, and McGuirk included a wedding photo with each one: a photo of the bride and groom, or a great shot of the giftgiver at the wedding.

McGuirk said she supplemented the emails with handwritten cards for older relatives or guests who don’t use email.

One couple made a video of themselves opening gifts, reading cards and saying thanks.

TIMING & STRATEGIES Some etiquette experts say newlyweds have just 90 days to get the notes out. Others say a year.

Anna Coats, editor of the Marry Me Tampa Bay wedding site, suggests writing out a second set of envelopes for thank-you cards at the same time the invitations are being addressed.

Don’t expect the bride to do it all, though. Experts agree that each partner should handle notes for his or her side.

w c fc o u ri er. co m/ w e d d i n g s WE D DI N G S s pr ing 2018 | 9

Your dream Your day

notes

the bride's checklist Six to 12 Months

Two 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.

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

Three Months

Our expertise www.specialoccasionsrental.com 323 West 15th St. Waterloo | 319.234.3104 or 1.800.531.5797

Make it a Day to Remember!

Share your special event at...

Waverly Area Veterans Post 1300 4th Street NW Waverly

(319) 483-9287

10

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

❑ 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.

One Month ❑ Reserve accommodations for the groom. ❑ Record gits 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 gits for the bridal party. Brides oten buy inexpensive earrings or necklaces for the bridesmaids to wear at the wedding. Popular choices for groomsmen are money clips, key chains or ball caps. ❑ Schedule final fittings for bride and bridesmaids. ❑ Schedule appointments at beauty salons for attendants, if needed. ❑ Hold the bridesmaids’ luncheon. ❑ Purchase a guest book and decide where it will go, either at the wedding or reception.

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

One Week ❑ 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.

HELLO PRODUCTIONS / AP PHOTO‌

To encourage guests to circulate and talk with one another at the wedding, the event planners at Hello Productions created an elegant cigar and whiskey bar that opened on an outdoor patio after dinner had been served.

Ideas to encourage

MINGLING ‌Wedding guests don’t know each other? Help them mingle and have fun. Here’s how: 1. An unusual setting can be an instant conversation starter.

And within your venue, consider creating spaces specifically to help guests socialize. Create a lounge area with sofas and love seats, so people can sit down away from their tables.

2. A wedding website or Facebook group is a great way to introduce guests to each other.

Invite them to post photos and information about how they know the bride and groom.

To take those pre-wedding introductions further, a service called Guesterly will create photo books of

AP PHOTO‌

If you’re hoping to get your wedding reception guests to mix and mingle, create a few cozy seating areas as an alternative to sitting at assigned dinner table seats or standing.

your guests with short bios.

Or plan a group event to take place right before the wedding. Make sure it goes beyond a standard welcome reception at a hotel bar or restaurant; how about a group outing to a baseball game or other casual event? Buy group tickets and have guests pay for their own refreshments.

If your budget for events is limited, spend it on this sort of pre-wedding event rather than a post-wedding Sunday brunch.

3. At the reception, something as simple as a “signature cocktail” can help guests find an initial topic for conversation. It’s worth planning ahead to make sure introductions take place, and even appointing “ambassadors” to introduce people.

4. Forcing people to sit at tables with strangers does not always work well. So give them something to see and do out of their seats: Picture boards, video montages, scrapbooks or a photo booth can help to stimulate conversation and laughter.

This works with food as well: Food trucks and dessert tables serving fun things like candy bars or gourmet doughnuts help people mingle.

Even if something like that is an added expense, it could be worth splurging, and saving money elsewhere.

Source: Associated Press

w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 11

Black’s Sky Room

DIY wedding favors

GET PERSONAL

‌ appily, as with so much modern wedding planning, H favors have gotten a whole lot more personalized, creative and, in some cases, delicious. the morning after) and fun items designed to highlight something about the couple or location.

Spending on these “swag bags” may range from about $6 to $15 per bag, depending on the couple’s budget and the number of outof-town guests. Give one bag per room or couple, rather than individual bags for each visiting guest.

Now taking reservations for weddings and special events!

8th floor of the Historic Black’s Building in Downtown Waterloo 501 Sycamore Street, Waterloo, IA 50703

319-235-1521

Gallagher Bluedorn

Reception seating up to 200 guests

Maucker Union Old Central Ballroom

SAYYes

Reception seating for 400+ guests

WE’LL HANDLE THE REST.

Turn your wedding dreams into a reality on the stunning campus of the University of Northern Iowa.

Start planning today at catering.uni.edu.

Commons Slife Ballroom Reception seating up to 220 guests

catering.uni.edu | 319.273.2333 University of Northern Iowa

12

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

AP PHOTO‌

An authentic-looking, laminated press pass created by journalists Caitlin Kelly and Jose Lopez for their wedding reception, knowing how many of their colleagues (and wedding guests) treasure their own press passes from major events.

1. TELL YOUR STORY Couples who opt to give guest favors are seeking something that distinguishes their wedding from others, but is relatively inexpensive, says Lauren Kay, deputy editor of the wedding website TheKnot.com. The Knot’s 2016 survey found that of the 78 percent of couples giving favors to their guests, the average investment ranged between $2 and $5 per guest, depending on the number of guests and the budget.

Many couples seek creative personalization: a gift that helps tell their story.

2. ARRIVAL GIFTS If your guests have traveled to reach a wedding destination, your gift to them may be waiting at their hotel. “Welcome bags” usually offer a mix of practical things (cheese and crackers for the room, for example, and perhaps water and a packet of Advil for

3. DIY’D & DELICIOUS Edible (or drinkable) gifts solve the problem of guests having to pack unplanned items in a suitcase or carry something fragile home.

Wedding guests also get hungry. So some couples solve both problems by offering food gifts: a jar of local honey, perhaps, or a box of chocolates from a popular local business. For weddings at a winery, Kay says, a split of wine with a personalized label is a perfect gift.

Another option that’s cost-effective: Offer pretty takeout containers that guests can fill with cookies as they leave the reception.

Source: Associated Press

HELLO PRODUCTIONS PHOTO‌

Edible wedding favors, especially those with a homemade twist such as the apple butter pictured here, are increasingly popular.

Trends worth watching

Trends come and go with the speed of light.

But these new directions in weddings are worth watching and could be around for awhile.

w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 13

Burgundy Arrives

B

urgundy is the new black. It looks great on practically all guys. Wear a burgundy jacket or a complete burgundy suit for polish that is softer than —and has more flair than—basic black. The color makes for lush floral arrangements and is strikingly pretty for bridesmaids.

Peach, blush, lavender, mint, pale blue — colors that have been on the charts for many years for weddings. But this fall we’ll see darker, more dramatic hues like burgundy, eggplant, navy, strawberry red shades, browns, as well as edgier black accents will hold their own.

Also, modern couples aren’t following the two- or three-colors max rule. Instead, their choices of color are about setting a mood for their wedding.

Wedding event planners suggest purple will be a color to watch, particularly since Ultra Violet was chosen as Pantone’s color of the year. And expect to see darker, moodier palettes in flower choices.

14

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

Smaller wedding parties The days are numbered for large groups of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Couples are opting for one or two attendants each, and putting the emphasis on their wedding being an intimate gathering of family and friends.

Look up!

Interior designers often describe a ceiling as a fourth wall — and one that shouldn’t be ignored. Bridal couples are learning that lesson and focusing more on ceiling treatments with dangling or vining flowers.

Flowers can be draped from the ceiling to hang down in sweeps, or used to transform a chandelier, for example.

Vines can wrap around wedding arches, too.

Texture Create beautiful, textural settings at your reception tables using linens, different centerpieces or arrangements at each table.

Try layering different table linens for effect and make sure tables have plenty of visual interest without being fussy or too crowded.

Choose an invitation that has tactile appeal or contrasting finishes, such as a matte invitation bordered with shiny silver or gold.

W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 15

Just desserts After the wedding vows, food is high on the list of important details. Couples are enjoying offering new food experiences, such as sushi bars, farm-to-table dinners, creative desserts, appetizer stations and lots of unusualfor-weddings sweets like doughnuts, custard or mousse and frozen treats like ice cream and Popsicles for end-of-theevening offerings.

Shapes to come

Go woodsy

Geometric shapes are increasingly popular, as are terrariuminspired vessels for centerpieces.

Edwardian- and Art Deco-inspired engagement rings are elegant and intricate reminders of past history.

Rustic is out, woodsy is in. The beloved barn look is still a thing, but it’s getting a makeover to a more naturalistic, woody look.

Greenery, fresh wild or garden flowers, outdoor setting in parks or forested setting are gaining favor. Burlap is fading as more wooden details take center stage, including signage, seating cards, table numbers, cake stands and tabletop arrangements. Cute forest animals are popping up on invitations, too.

After parties Couples will be putting more effort and imagination into the after-party. After older guests leave, younger guests will stick around for more fun. This party can continue at the reception venue with more music and dancing, a late-night buffet, a variety of desserts, even pizza. Or it could be as simple as “everyonemeet-at-a-favorite-bar” or other hip location. (Remember to book ahead.)

The bride may change into a lighter dress or wedding pantsuit, for comfort’s sake. The groom also may want to switch to more casual attire.

16

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

Source: wedding wire, Martha Stewart weddings, wire services, Shutterstock Photos

Gown

‌Today’s wedding gowns are filled with incredible, stylish details that will make your big day even more special.

Jackets, detachable sleeves, capes, soft pastels — it’s all here, and it’s all beautiful — just for you!

details we love Ivy and Aster gown

x x x x x 2017 | 17

匀栀愀瀀椀渀最 䴀攀洀漀爀椀攀猀⸀⸀⸀

Alexandra Grecco ㈀ ㄀ 䔀⸀ 吀漀眀攀爀 倀愀爀欀 䐀爀⸀ 圀愀琀攀爀氀漀漀Ⰰ 䤀䄀 㔀 㜀 ㄀

㌀㄀㤀⸀㈀㌀㌀⸀㔀㌀㔀㜀 眀眀眀⸀昀愀挀攀琀猀戀礀猀甀猀漀渀最⸀挀漀洀

On your special day, surround yourself with love and nature’s beauty.

Naeem Khan

Beautiful gardens, endless possibilities.

1927 East Orange Rd. Waterloo, IA 50701 319.226.4966 Cedarvalleyarboretum.org

18

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

Chic capes

Blushing bride All shades of nude to whisper-soft peach and pink make a wedding gown even more romantic. Brides are falling for these softly pastel colors for their alluring, skin-flattering qualities.

If you’re tempted to skip a veil, try on one of the year’s chic capes. Whether it’s as full-tilt Little Red Riding Hood gossamer cape with a hood or simple but stylish capelet that drifts over your shoulders, this fashion-forward touch will introduce a little fairy tale into your big day.

Zuhair Murad Naeem Khan

Liancarlo

Allison Web

A Look that is

Timeless

Inbal Dror

200 STATE STREET, #104 319-266-7517 w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 19

Cool jackets Now this isn’t your mom’s wedding dress, for sure. A lacy moto jacket? A dinner jacket? Definitely a statement-making outfit for your big day. And when you fold up the gown and store it, hang the jacket in your closet and wear it again!

Gracy Accad

Monique Lhuiller

Monique Lhuiller

20

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

Detached sleeves Tea time Whimsical and reminiscent of the 1950s, mid-calf-length or tea-length wedding gowns are the perfect alternative for a more intimate or destination wedding.

The look is both vintage and of-the-moment, plus it’s a good length for showing off your wedding shoes!

Talk about an on-again, off-again trend! Detached sleeves bring a new dimension to fashionable wedding gowns. Whether your taste is lacy or puffed, these sleeves visually transform a strapless dress into an off-the-shoulder gown.

Idan Cohen

Galia Lahav Inbal Dror

Mark Zuzino

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier

w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 21

boho wedding Have a

‌ all it new age Bohemian.

C The look is a little undone, relaxed, sort of edgy and very romantic. It’s particularly appealing theme for an outdoor or garden wedding theme — a little rustic but with upscale, unexpected, whimsical and artistic touches.

And the vibe is eclectic and fun.

Flower arrangements and bouquets have a “gathered fresh from the garden” look, perhaps with the bride wearing a crown of flowers.

Flowing with lace or gossamer-thin layers of organza, the bride’s wedding gown can be long or short, while the groom can choose an outfit more casual than a tux — perhaps a blue suit, a linen suit or khakis, white shirt and vest.

If the reception is outdoors, too, use lots of lanterns and string lights from tree limbs. Toss crystals or marbles on fabric-draped tables and dress the table settings in mismatched dishware, silverware and glasses.

Choose catering companies that serve non-traditional food for the wedding. The boho trend is towards food trucks, buffet-style or BBQstyled receptions. You can also show your commitment to saving the planet by hiring a farm-to-table caterer. ‌

22

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8

xxxxx 2017 | 23

Non-traditional ways to involve

GRANDPARENTS ASSOCIATED PRESS

‌ ancy Rutchik and Flossie Pack are N flower girls extraordinaire.

Not only did the outgoing and energetic 80-somethings draw cheers as the surprise flower girls at their granddaughter Lucy Schanzer’s wedding, but they reprised the role to further acclaim at the wedding of Schanzer’s younger sister the following year.

Being close with her grandmothers, Schanzer, 31, wanted to involve them in her wedding ceremony in a way that was prominent and unique. “Grongong” Nancy and Grammy Flossie embraced their chance to be flower girls, which was kept secret until the two, wearing pearls and big smiles, began scattering petals from antique silver baskets to the “I Love Lucy” theme song.

They walked down the aisle before an adoring crowd just before Schanzer married Kyle Schanzer in a redwood forest in Carmel, California.

“When they saw us, they started laughing,” said Rutchik, 87, of Dallas. “Then they had whistle calls and they called our names and ‘Go girl!’ We broke up the wedding. It was really a fun thing.”

Many modern couples are tinkering with tradition as they personalize their weddings, and that includes placing grandparents in more visible positions like flower girl or ring bearer, best man or bridesmaid.

It’s a loving way to celebrate grandparents who were involved and influential in their upbringing.

“It honors the legacy of a family and the extension of a family and how the family is growing, because that’s fundamentally what marriage is about,” said San Francisco wedding and event planner Alicia Falango, who estimates that about 30 percent of her couples include grandparents in a unique way. “It’s not the norm per se, but it’s gaining popularity,” she added.

These unexpected, high-profile roles are a departure from what many brides and grooms have done for years: quietly recognizing grandparents with a corsage or boutonniere, and having them walk down the aisle ahead of the bridal party to take front-row seats.

Recent wedding seasons have seen an Indiana groom who tapped his 90-year-old grandfather as best man, a Minnesota bride

who chose her 92-year-old grandmother as her flower girl, and a Pennsylvania wedding featuring two grandmothers in matching gowns as flower girls.

“It resonates with a lot of people,” Falango said. “When you are an adult, it’s a blessing to have a living grandparent. It’s so emotional for people. They go inward and say, ‘Wow, I wish my grandma or grandpa were still here.’”

Beyond including a grandparent in the bridal party, couples can ask one to officiate, SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌ like Nadine Gorand did with her grandfaAsk grandparents to let you include their wedding ther Raymond Oddi. Gorand photos in your reception displays. and her fiance, Pat, wanted an officiant they loved and respected for their wedding at the Art Institute of Chicago.

They immediately thought of Oddi, then 89.

“His work ethic and his family values are definitely things we both look up to and admire,” said Gorand, 28. She added that her Gramps made the ceremony feel “really intimate and personal and just very loving and genuine.”

At the reception, couples can also mention their parents’ parents in speeches, display their old wedding photos or honor them on the dance floor.

At the wedding of Ashley and Matthew Beine in West Bend, Wisconsin, the couple’s seven grandparents proudly walked down the aisle before the wedding party, and later, the DJ played a snippet of a slow song from decades ago to honor their weddings.

Schanzer’s grandmother Grongong Rutchik allows that EMILIA JANE PHOTO VIA AP‌ grandparents are sometimes Nadine Gorand and husband Pat Gorand exchanging their wedding overlooked at weddings, and vows, administered by Nadine’s grandfather Raymond Oddi at The having such a special place in Art Institute of Chicago. her granddaughters’ celebrations made her feel loved.

“It made me feel awful AT RIGHT: Nancy “Grongong” Rutchik, left, and Flossie “Grammy” special, and I loved being Pack, walk down the aisle as flower girls for the wedding of their part of such a happy occagranddaughter Lucy Schanzer in Carmel, Calif. sion,” she said.

TOM O’NEILL PHOTO VIA AP‌

24

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

xxxxx 2017 | 25

A rectangular painting made of particle board and cardboard letters covered in burlap with the couple’s initials, on which the guests signed well-wishes in metallic markers in place of a traditional guests book at a wedding in Boulder, Colo. It now hangs in the couple’s home.

Orange-painted picture frame of a quote and the wedding date that was substituted for a ring pillow at a Kansas wedding. The wedding colors were orange (Whitney’s favorite color) and silver.

FORGET DIY FOR YOUR WEDDING.

Think DIT (DO IT TOGETHER)

JENNIFER FORKER Associated Press‌

‌M

any brides and grooms who want to craft meaningful and memorable wedding decorations choose to make one important item — the bouquet, table centerpiece or party giveaway gifts. Others go all-out, crafting nearly every detail, either to save money or to make the day more personal.

Marissa DeMercurio, of Arvada, Colorado, made everything she could by hand for her wedding. She asked some friends who are artists to make, paint and handprint items, from handmade signs to the lawn games played at her outdoor ceremony and reception.

Darcy Miller, editor at large for Martha Stewart Weddings and author of the new “Celebrate Every-

thing” (HarperCollins), calls it DIT: do it together.

“Yes, the DIY is fun and makes it personal, but DIT makes it more meaningful,” says Miller. “Part of the wedding is delegating and collaborating, not only as a means to get it done but as a means for making it more fun.”

Some of DeMercurio’s decorations, such as a chalkboard showing the couple’s relationship highlights, hang in the house she shares with her husband, Pete Kardasis. That was another priority: The couple wanted to live with their wedding memories, not file them away.

Whitney and Jordan Weaver of Seneca, Kansas, made most of the decorations for their wedding: paper flower bouquets, a ring bearer “pillow” (it was a framed quote tied with ribbon), the guest book, table decorations (incorporating

LEFT: A chalkboard with the schedule of events AP PHOTOS

500 Mason jars), church pew decorations and a card box made from a snare drum.

Family and friends helped, one making the cake topper.

“For me it was about doing our wedding around what we like and making it special for us,” says Whitney Weaver, whose relationship with her future husband grew out of a shared love of music.

Miller, of Martha Stewart Weddings, warns against hitting Pinterest boards unprepared; they can be overwhelming. When she works with couples, she asks about their personal style and inspirations to tease out a wedding theme. Her book does the same with a personalization “cheat sheet.”

More DIY tips: — Buy and collect items in bulk. DeMercurio tied large swaths of burlap around trees and smaller pieces around Mason jars. She collected glass jars, some of which she filled with flowers and hung from trees branches.

— If you choose a lovely setting — DeMercurio chose a park with mountains as her backdrop; Weaver’s reception was in a big, beautiful barn — you’ll need fewer decorations.

— Put Epsom salts in the bottom of Mason jars before adding tea lights, says Weaver.

“It looks like crystals, and it’s a really cheap alternative for holding tea lights steady.”

AP PHOTO ‌S — Hand-stamp compostable utensils with phrases such as “all you need is love” to add A snare drum painted with an orange star that was used as a card box at a music-themed wedding. a personal touch, says DeMercurio.

SIMPLY STUNNING, SIMPLY GRACEFUL,

We Have All Your Wedding Day Needs 3205 Hudson Road | Cedar Falls, IA 50613 store: [319] 277-1117 www.simply-ido.com | simply@simply-ido.com

wedding dd receptions wedding ceremonies ❤ ❤

❤ rehearsal

dinners ❤ gift openings ❤ call

our professional event & catering team today

7213 Nordic Drive | 319-859-3852 | HiltonGardenInnCedarFalls.com CVBUSINESSMONTHLY.COM

w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 27

nature Gems of

Floral accessories get creative

W

ant a memorable accessory for that big event? Think beyond the traditional pinned-on boutonnière or corsage, and consider wearing a piece of floral art.

“There are those floral artists who are thinking outside the box and are using blooms and botanical elements in new, fresh ways, as in floral jewelry and wearables,” said Tobey Nelson, owner of Tobey Nelson Events and Design in Langley, Washington.

Wearable flowers have been getting play on fashion runways,

and are increasingly popular as necklaces, bracelets and crowns at weddings, proms or other special occasions. Some can even be replanted later.

Nelson describes her flower jewelry as “neck gardens” or “wrist gardens.”

“I see so many different plant parts — be it a flower or berry or an acorn or curly stem — as a gem of nature,” she said. “It is only fitting that I would fashion them into jewelry.”

Floral designers cajole blooms — often succulents — into jewelry bases that can be worn around a wrist or finger, or used as necklaces, earrings and headpieces.

Many of the bases can be used again after the flowers are spent.

Succulents are resilient, simple to grow and don’t need to be watered frequently. Sedums, echeverias and sempervivums multiply rapidly. Eventually, they will expand off their bases, sending out roots in search of nutrients.

“The life expectancy of a floral wearables piece made from succulents can be three weeks to two months, as long as it is stored in sunlight,” Nelson said. “JewAP PHOTO elry made from succulents can be taken apart when the plants begin Floral headband to outgrow the jewelry piece and then planted.”

Susan Mcleary, a floral designer, artist and instructor who operates Passionflower in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has a long list of go-to flowers and foliage that she uses as wearables.

“The best way to form your own list is to test obsessively,” Mcleary said. “Anytime I get a new flower in the studio, I snip SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO off a few blooms to test how they Floral bracelet fare out of water.

28

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

“For floral jewelry, I love using young, tight ranunculus, astrantia blooms, hyacinth pips, delphinium florets, huechera foliage, herbs, berries, pods, miniature orchids, to name a few.”

Floral pieces appreciate a periodic misting but they are made to last for the duration of a one-day event such as a wedding or party, Mcleary said. Succulents can last up to three weeks without watering.

Mcleary’s designs often center around a single family of colors, adding a variety of shades and

textures to boost interest. “Larger blooms and darker shades typically are set down first, and more delicate materials and lighter shades float above,” she said.

She receives many illustrated thank you notes from former clients — usually brides — for whom she designed succulent jewelry that was successfully re-potted.

“A favorite photo came on one couple’s first anniversary: a pot of overflowing plants, happily nestled in their new home,” she said.

Source: Dean Fosdick, Associated Press

2 banquet rooms 2 fully stocked bars 1 professional chef 18 hole golf course Visit us at www.waverlycc.com or contact Manager Jordan David at (319) 352-3855 or at wcountryclub@gmail.com

Reception Hall Directory His proposal was music to your ears. Now it’s time to put your florist, cake baker and caterer on speeddial. 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, 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 A lush, 40 acre garden setting located directly east of Hawkeye Community College – the perfect backdrop for your special day. A Saturday wedding in the garden of your choice includes a one hour rehearsal between 4pm and 7pm the night before your wedding and the use of our education center and the garden of your choice from 10am – 6pm on the day of your wedding for $800. Wedding rentals are available seven days a week, prices vary. For more information about booking the Arboretum for your special day, call our office or email us at office@cedarvalleyarboretum.org.

Centennial Oaks Golf Club Eagle Ridge Dr., Waverly • 319-483-1765, 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 setup and tear-down.

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 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, non-refundable; post-event 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.

Clarion Inn 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls 319-277-2230, ext. 7322 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.

Diamond Event Center at Jorgensen Plaza 5307 Caraway Lane, Cedar Falls (319) 266-9994 or crystal.ford@barmuda.com The Cedar Valley's newest event center is under construction and taking reservations for events beginning June 2018! Weddings and receptions, business luncheons or awards dinners, anniversary and retirement parties - all this and more can be accommodated in our flexible space that seats up to 350 at tables. Amenities include fully customizable menus and bar options, specialty linens, coat check, set up and clean up, state-of-the-art audio/visual, valet parking and coat check. Diamond Event Center is managed

by Barmuda, with 30 years of restaurant and events management in the Cedar Valley, and is located off Prairie Parkway in south Cedar Falls on the campus of Western Home Communities. Call Crystal today to plan your special event.

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.golffoxridge.com Accommodates 320 people; bookings one month in advance; business meeting space available; in-house catering available to fit all budget needs; wedding rental requires $250.00 deposit (nonrefundable/applied toward final bill) and signed contract to hold date.

Please contact Ben Biersner at 319-989-2213 or ben@ golffoxridge.com to request more information.

Grout Museum District & Snowden House 503 South St., Waterloo • 319-234-6357 www.gmdistrict.org maddie.morehouse@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 Italiante 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. 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.

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.

Hickory Hills Park 3338 Hickory Hills Rd., 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 Dr., Cedar Falls • 319-266-6611 www.HiltonGardenInnCedarFalls.com An inviting wedding location with a 5,117 sq. ft. ballroom seating up to 340 guests comfortably in banquet style and a 1,450 sq. ft. pre-function area ideal for a social hour. Our full service hotel features 113 beautiful appointed guest rooms and suites all with 2 queens or 1 king bed. Our guests can enjoy our Indoor salt water 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. Our desire is to assist you in creating your dream wedding. Please call our talented and experienced Sales & Catering team to help you customize your special day, 319-266-6611.

w c fc o u ri er.c om /w ed d i n g s W ED D I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 29

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/meetings-saleskit.aspx or call 319-833-2266 to speak with a professional planner today.

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 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.

Oster Regent Theatre 103 Main St., Cedar Falls • 319-277-5283 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 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. The Pavilion offers seating for 800 people which makes it an ideal location for anything from a concert to a wedding. Our services included complimentary set up and tear down, name on the marquee, serving the head table as well as keeping the food line full at all times, two NCC bartenders, and free parking. We look forward to working with you.

Ramada Hotel and Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center 205 W. 4th St., Waterloo • 319-233-7560 www.ramadawaterloo.com Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Waterloo. We are able to accommodate parties from 50 to 1200 people in our uniquely customizable spaces.

Rental prices range from $800.00 to $1200.00 depending on the space need for your special day. The rental fee in an inclusive price, no “hidden fees”. Rental fee includes your setup, teardown, and cleanup; as well as all tables, chairs, linens, place settings, dance floor, and so much more. We have a minimum of $4000.00 for the reception.

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.

30

|

Rotary Reserve 5932 N. Union Rd., 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 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.

Sunnyside Country Club 1600 Olympic Dr., Waterloo • 319-234-1707 www.sunnysidecountryclub.com Available to non-members & members for weddings; Seating up to 300 with overflow; booking depends on availability; competitive pricing; on-site sit-down or buffet-style catering only, starting $21 per plate; setup and tear down of tables, chairs, linens provided; fullystaffed bar; decorating early allowed when available; dance floor. For details call 319-234-1707 or email events@sunnysidecountryclub.com.

University of Northern Iowa Commons-Slife Ballroom W.23rd Street, Cedar Falls 319-273-2333 catering.uni.edu Ballroom seats up to 220; 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; half of estimated cost paid in advance, remainder due at event; set up, 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.

University of Northern Iowa Gallagher Bluedorn 8201 Dakota Street, Cedar Falls • 319-273-3660 www.gbpac.com • catering.uni.edu Hall lobby accommodates up to 200 banquet style, 300 standing; book six months to a year in advance; onsite catering only by UNI Catering; bar service; tables, chairs, linens provided; balcony, grand central staircase; decorating day before event; dance floor.

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, 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.

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s

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; 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 We offer beautiful and affordable riverfront spaces that can accommodate up to 250 indoors and 5000 outdoors.

A range of amenities are available including: set up & clean up; newly renovated restrooms; kitchen; catering; beverage service; round or square tables; chairs; linens; ice table; pipe & drape; piano; sound system; stage; tents; and dance floor.

Waterloo Elks Lodge 407 E. Park Ave., Waterloo • 319-234-7568 Sherri Simon, 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 4th St NW., Waverly • 319-483-9287 sarastephensWAVP@gmail.com Open to the public! The Patriots Hall accommodates up to 300 guests for your event. We have a dance floor that can be customized to the size you prefer, up to 30’x30’.

You choose your own caterer, WAVP will provide the bar. Linens are available to rent. Tables and chairs are provided with the cost of the rental. $900 for the whole Patriots Hall, with a refundable damage deposit of $250 required at time of booking; hall rental fee due the month of the event. If your event does not require the entire hall, we have a temporary wall that can divide the room into two separate rooms. Patriots Hall West is $400 (holds up to 100 guests), Patriots Hall East is $500 (holds up to 200 guests). Friday decorating time is available for only an additional $250; you will have the entire day to decorate. Coming in the Spring of 2017 is a large deck that will overlook the Cedar River off the Patriots Hall.

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

w c f co u ri e r.c om /w ed d i n g s W E DD I NG S s pr ing 2018 | 31

,

LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP The individuals at Roth were incredible at helping me create my vision of the perfect engagement ring for my to-be wife.

I felt as if they were just as excited to make this ring as I was to propose with it!

Bride & Groom reside in Austin, TX

Engagement ring custom-designed at Roth Jewelers.

Wedding bands purchased at Roth - Gabriel & Co.

Corner of E. 5th & Lafayette | www.RothJewelers.com 32

|

W EDD I NG S sp r in g 2 0 1 8 wc f co u rie r. c om /w e d d i n g s