The News Reporter Wedding Planner 2012

The News Reporter’s

What’s Inside Do-it-Yourself Wedding Engagement Photo Tips Make-Your-Own Wedding Invitations Packing for Your Honeymoon Advantages to a Wedding Video

Wedding Planner 2012

And Lots More!

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

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The News Reporter’s

Wedding Planner Page 3

Do-it-Yourself Wedding

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Honeymoon How-To Things to Consider When a Bridesmaid is Pregnant Use Cuisine For a Wedding to Remember

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Engagement Photo Tips

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Feed on These Wedding Favor Ideas

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Make-Your-Own Wedding Invitations

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Packing for Your Honeymoon

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Unique Reception Touches

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Engaged?

Plan the Perfect Registry

Page Tips for Trying 16 on Wedding Dresses

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Choosing a Hue for Bridesmaid Gowns

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Advantages to a Wedding Video

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Wedding

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T

hose thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be. But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach, couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time.

According to CostofWedding.com, on average, U.S. couples spend $26,542 for their weddings. Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23,330, up from $20,129 in 2010. These amounts do not include the cost for an engagement ring or wedding bands. With such a high price tag, some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs. Having a backyard, DIY wedding can be the answer.

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill, it can be a much classier affair than that. Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use, either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own. Furthermore, for couples who are picky about details, having a DIY event ensures that they can control the details and have them as personal as they would like.

Getting Started A DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them. But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial. A well-planned wedding is the best start.

Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need: * location * tables and chairs * linens * food * silverware and glassware * invitations * photography * music * officiant * music * centerpieces and other decor * cake or dessert * lighting * attire * flowers

Work in Advance Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance. Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

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Engagement Photo

n

ewly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish. Often, one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might even be published in the newspaper.

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day.

Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot.

The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500. Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (i.e. fashion models) but may want to break into the wedding biz because of how lucrative it can be. Costs may be negotiated as a result.

Engagement photos don’t have to be posed portraits. Experiment with looks that fit your personalities for memorable photos.

When shopping around for a photographer, there are certain things couples should keep in mind. The first and most important

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is selecting a photographer you can relate to. If you don’t feel a connection with the photographer, he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results. He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples. This way the photos don’t look stiff or contrived.

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos. * Find a photographer who fits your style. If you’re a quirky couple, go with a quirky photographer. If you’re reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple, then select a more traditional photographer. Some photographers out there forget that this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want. Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration. * Select one who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming. Some of the best photos occur in natural settings,

Tips

where things aren’t entirely planned. If a photographer simply works out of a studio, you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales. * Choose your location wisely.

Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple. By choosing a place that offers a personal connection, there’s a good chance you’ll appreciate the photos in the long run. Also, be open to the fact that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image. Be open to the unexpected. * Try random poses and some candid shots. Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind, experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love. Expect to take your share of kissing, nosetouching and portrait shots. But some fun poses, such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces. Remember, sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward, but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images. * Choose clothing that fits the mood. If time and budget allows, have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones don’t. A formal outfit, comfortable street clothes, something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos.

Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy, which may take away from the actual images in the long run. Plus, you don’t want to look back at these photos in the future and say, “What was Ithinking?” Avoid matchy-matchy, though. If you are dressed alike, you may appear to be trying too hard. It’s the individual personalities you want to shine through.

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Make-Your-Own

Wedding Invitations

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings. Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity, and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something special.

Wedding invitations can range in prices depending on the service used.

Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside, and online printing sources have replaced them. The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past. That doesn’t mean they are cheap, however. Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity, according to estimates from many printing company Web sites. Expect to pay around $90 (U.S.) for postage if mailing 100 standard invitations that do not require extra postage and include stamped response cards.

In order to avoid overpaying for wedding invitations, or simply to create a

personalized invitation, many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route.

DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting. Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations, it’s important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the wedding, and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptials.

Today there are many options when it comes to making invitations oneself.

Couples can be as hands-on or handsoff as they like. Here are some choices to consider. * Design it yourself, but hire a printer.

Couples can visit Web sites that enable them to choose paper type, ink color, a certain template, wording, color scheme, embellishments, dye-cutting, and many other different options. Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out.

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the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the work. * Use wedding invitation kits. Many stationery shops, craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits that can be purchased. These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design. Most will come with envelopes and small response cards. The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printer. * Mix and match components. Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to color scheme. Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on a home printer.

Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon through.

require some tools, including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies. A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts, and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges.

While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components, it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of error.

Saving money on wedding components has become essential for many couples in this economy. Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more.

* Do it all yourself. The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch. This involves drawing out a template, cutting the card stock to fit, selecting envelopes, creating and executing response cards, and decorating the invitations as they see fit. This will

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Reception Touches O

ver the course of their lifetimes, many people will be wedding guests on several occasions. During the height of wedding season, weddings can run into one another, as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies. Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas.

Who hasn’t attended a wedding that seems formulaic? The couple enters, they do their spotlight dance, there’s food, a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting. Guests may actually be able to predict what’s coming next. While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition, that doesn’t mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out.

Use the bouquets of the bridal party as the centerpieces of some of the reception tables as one way to bring something different to your wedding.

Here are several ideas you can introduce into your wedding to add something special to the reception. * Skip the big entrance. Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple. Instead of

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spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite, mingle with your guests from start to finish. So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests, the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat.

Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you don’t have to make that big entrance from behind closed doors.

Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together. * Dance to an upbeat number. Guests are expecting a slow, sappy tune. What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun. If you haven’t mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again, feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other. * Encourage couples to dance together. It’s often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance. However, that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids. Instead, don’t have assigned partners. Rather, encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose. * Swap the garter/bouquet toss for something more meaningful. If you’re

part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite, there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration -- ones that don’t single out the singletons who haven’t yet found their special someones. Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration. * Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests. Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding. Spending more money doesn’t necessarily mean guests will have a better time. If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary, find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party. It could be a flambe presentation, a chocolate or candy bar, a carving station with your all-time favorite food (even if that’s PB&J), or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth. * Hire a live performer. Although it’s hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist, unless you’re cousins with Celine Dion, chances are she won’t be available to sing “My Heart Will Go On” at your reception. However, a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide. Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer, like a bagpiper, as an added measure of entertainment for guests.

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* Stage a costume switch.

Let’s face it, dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina. As the bride, have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception. It will also add some variety to your wedding photos.

Choosing a

B

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

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Hue Bridesmaid Gowns

ridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party, and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding. Choosing a gown and a color that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work.

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding. The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four. Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year, that’s a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned.

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day.

Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years, and many people have their own stories of garish gowns they’ve been asked to don for a wedding.

Some have said that brides intentionally choose ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure they’re not outshined come the wedding day. Although this may be the case for some, most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all. And

for the

color scheme is integral in the choice of gown.

Every well-planned wedding carries a color scheme throughout. This includes the color a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear. But not every color accentuates everyone’s features. Therefore, some experimentation might be necessary to find a color that is flattering to all and fits with the color scheme.

Depending on hair color and skin shade, there are many flattering hues available for gowns. When making this decision, consider bridesmaids’ ethnicity and skin tone.

African-American: Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-colored gowns, including silver, gold, purple and salmon. Very pale colors may be daring and conspicuous.

Asian and olive-skinned women: Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colors, including red, navy, peach, and fuchsia. However, avoid colors in light yellow, aqua, gray, taupe, or mint, which may make the bridesmaid look washed out.

Choosing a gown that flatters bridesmaids is a significant responsibility for prospective brides planning their big day.

Fair skin:Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly colored gowns in jewel tones.

Pastels may work, but be careful about those depending on hair color. Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair. Yellow and green may not

Continued on page 10...

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

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Honeymoon How-To After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down, couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure. The honeymoon may create mixed feelings, some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple.

For many couples, the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married. Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience.

Wedding jitters are normal, as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters. But just as wedding trends have changed through the years, so, too, have beliefs about the wedding night. Knowing about shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness.

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most people are exhausted. Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day. Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night.

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous. But couples may still be filled with expectations for the perfect romantic retreat. Here are some things to think about. * Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons aren’t exactly what’s pictured in the movies. Don’t try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things don’t go your way. In other words, it may rain on your beachside liaison. * A wedding requires a lot of work. Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward. Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax. When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out, it’s not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors.

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Feed on These

Wedding Favor Ideas

Do you have a shelf or cabinet that’s filled to the brim with wedding favors such as engraved ice cream scoopers, cake servers, cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders?

If you do, you’re not alone. As couples pore over guest favor options, many select trinkets or knickknacks that, while thoughtful, end up collecting dust in someone’s home. Edible gifts also can be thoughtful -- and flavorful!

Guests may look forward to an edible favor because it’s a memento of the special occasion and it won’t become a permanent fixture in their homes. There are many edible favors from which to choose. They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding.

Chocolate It’s difficult to find an edible favor more universally beloved than chocolate. Rich and inviting, chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love

Continued on page 10.....

Edible wedding favors may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favorite bakery.

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Packing for your

Honeymoon

When basking in the afterglow of a momentous wedding, most couples would rather think about scores of other things than packing for their honeymoons. But with ever-changing restrictions on what and how much a person can bring along on airlines and other modes of travel, packing is something that eventually must be done.

According to the Honeymoon Study 2010 by The Wedding Report, a Wedding Statistics and Market Research organization, 81 percent of newly married couples take a honeymoon. The top honeymoon destination for those in North America is the Caribbean, where the average couple will spend $3,500 on their honeymoon. Although 15 percent choose to cruise to their destinations, the remaining likely drive or fly. In any case, packing becomes a part of the honeymoon planning.

Some people are good at packing and can execute the task rather easily.

Others are left with a bulging suitcase that won’t pass muster at security clear-

ance or meet size and weight guidelines imposed by airlines. Nevertheless, anyone can become a packing pro with a few guidelines. * If you don’t already have a suitcase, choose a design with a hard case. This way it won’t expand while packing, and there’s no chance it will ever exceed the size limits. * Roll clothes because it will limit wrinkling. * Use a layering technique to fit a multitude of items and protect against displacement during transit.

- Fill the bottom of the suitcase with the heavier items: shoes, jeans, jackets, and any gear or tech items.

- Next, layer dresses and slacks so they lay lengthwise on top of the first layer of items. It’s okay if the ends extend over the edge of the suitcase.

- Shirts and sweaters (if applicable) can

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be rolled and then layered next. Use any overhanging slacks and dresses to fold over the shirts and keep them in place.

- Lightweight items, like lingerie and undergarments, can be placed on top.

Also, include toiletries that are sealed in leak-proof bags. * Be sure to know airline requirements in advance. While some restrictions have been lifted, the Traffic Safety Administration and the airlines themselves may have rules regarding how much liquid or sharp items you can bring along.

* Make the most of the honeymoon by packing early. Come your travel day, you can simply hop in the car and look forward to the vacation ahead.

* Keep important documents, such as tickets, reservation numbers and emergency contacts, with you in a travel bag.

Any prescriptions you need should be carried as well. * Place an emergency outfit in your carry-on in the event your luggage is lost or temporarily detained. * Consider packing lightly and buying some necessities at your destination. * Sometimes it is less expensive to ship items instead of paying airline baggage fees. Investigate these options, especially on the return trip. * Take advantage of laundry service on honeymoons so you won’t return with a bag full of dirty items that need launder-

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

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Wedding Favor Ideas

Honeymoon

...Continued from page 8

How-To

and devotion. Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favors, provided the favors are refrigerated to avoid melting.

Ideas for chocolate favors include individually packaged truffles, gourmet brownie bites, candy-covered chocolates with an inscription, chocolate covered apples, chocolate coins, and other similar creations. Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea.

...Continued from page 8

* Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special. There will be plenty of other times down the road when you’re an old, married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt. * Pack some candles and mood music, or ask the resort to handle these details for you. These items can help set the scene. * Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if you’re not ready to start a family so soon after being married. The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations.

Bridesmaid Gowns ...Continued from page 7 work with a fair brunette. Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde.

Once a color is chosen, brides also need to consider the season. Certain colors may look out of place depending on the season. For example, an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding. Similarly, russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring wedding. Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues, greens, pinks and purples for their weddings, simply because those colors transcend the seasons.

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cause not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes, many brides are now open to selecting a color and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style. This way someone who is busty won’t feel uncomfortable in strapless, and someone who is thin won’t be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles. The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable, and different styles can help achieve this.

Making the effort to choose a gown color and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding.

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Sweet cookies also make good edible favors. Butter cookies are a favorite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes. Professionally iced, these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold. Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests.

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Candies It has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings. Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections. Autumn weddings could have Halloweeninspired candies or those in fall hues. It’s easy to follow a color theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal.

Many discount stores sell inexpensive jars and candy dishes to house the candy. Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable.

Other edibles From cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue sauce, couples have so many options for guest favors at their disposal.

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Page 11

Engaged? Plan The Perfect Wedding Registry

F

or recently engaged couples this is the time to get everything you ever wanted. Whether you’re starting from scratch, upgrading, expanding or replacing, the goal is to turn a whole bunch of mismatched mine and yours into a lifetime of ours.

“There are so many details involved in making sure you get exactly what you need and want, but it doesn’t have to be stressful,” says Audrey Stavish, wedding and gift registry expert at Bed Bath & Beyond. “Consulting a professional can make the registry process stress-free and even fun.”

Stavish is offering some helpful hints to plan the perfect wedding registry: • Plan Ahead: Start a wedding registry as soon as you say yes, to give guests plenty of time. Where you register is important. Ask friends, family and coworkers about their experiences. Opt for convenience and great customer service. Choose a store that has locations nationwide and a website, making it easy for you and your guests.

• Seek Help: It’s easy to get overwhelmed with planning a wedding.

That’s why couples rely on the advice of professionals -- from stylists to florists to caterers. Don’t forget the registry expert!

Also, take advantage of complimentary wedding planning tools available on your registry website to consolidate all your wedding information in one place. A site like www.bedbathandbeyond.com for example, has features that help you budget your wedding, manage your guest list, and arrange your seating chart.

• Visit a Store: It`s in your best interest to visit a store and talk with an expert consultant who can help you with your gift selections and share great tips, like what cookware you will need to prepare your favorite dish. It’s important to touch the towels, hold the flatware, and see everything in person. Most couples go into the stores many times and also update their registries online more than once.

ter for two-to-three items for each guest invited to the wedding. Friends and family will rely on the registry for your engagement party, shower and holidays.

And guests will appreciate having lots of choices in a wide range of prices and categories.

Planning a perfect wedding is every couple’s dream. But your wedding is just the first day of your marriage. Your registry, however, will impact your daily life for years to come. So be sure you plan it perfectly.

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Advantages to a Wedding I

n a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies, it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings. Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessary.

The decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over. After all, with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures, having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury.

However, people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price.

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day. A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred

carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a few embarrassing dance moves during the reception. A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography. In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding, the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day. Here are some things to think about. * Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters. You probably don’t want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting. Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guests’ faces for a less-than-candid interview. Today’s professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold. * The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer. Some photographers have a videographer on staff. But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographer’s photos but not the videographer’s work. * A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy

day. He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things you’re not seeing and hearing. * Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis, a wedding video can serve as a family memento.

What other time, apart from the holidays, do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place? * Although no one wants to think of a friend or relative passing away while planning their wedding, the fact remains that after a few years some of the people who attended your wedding may no longer be around. Having a wedding video may be the only last moving image and sound of a special person who is no longer in your life. * Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture. To relive the music and the words of the day, a videographer is a necessity. Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality. * You can work with a good videographer so it’s not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering perspectives. Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just don’t like watching themselves on TV), and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs.

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* There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to, such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room, or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back in the church pews. This is where a wedding video can prove invaluable.

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* Modern videographers offer high-resolution, edited movies.

These can be delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the best quality for your package.

Although brides and grooms may be cutting costs with regard to their wedding, they may not want to pass on the wedding video.

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

D.I.Y.

Wedding

....continued from page 3 at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting. For example, inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea. Later on these items can be kept, sold or even donated to shelters.

Tablecloths don’t have to be the traditional kind. It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dressing them up oneself. Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light. Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored.

Then items can be assembled at leisure.

Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to printout save-the-dates, invitations and response cards, as well as mail them.

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire. Buying off the rack may mean a smaller price tag for gowns. Gentleman may be able to fare

with sportcoats and slacks. Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations, if necessary.

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed. Upon asking, many couples find there are members of the family who have skills in certain areas, which can be tapped for the wedding. There may be a gourmet chef, a disc jockey, a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows. Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs.

Readying the Venue Because couples will be doing the work themselves, it’s best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting). Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped. Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor.

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area, especially for when the sun goes down.

Set up the tables and chairs to final-

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Page 13

ize placement the day before. Figure out where the ceremony will take place. A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop. Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding.

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas, serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes. This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests.

Other Tips and Tricks

catering service. * Consider favors that also double as table centerpieces. * Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers, some floral tape and decorative ribbon. * Restrict the bar to wine and beer, and you’ll save money on expensive liquors.

A DIY wedding can be a fun, memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location.

Here are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings. * Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces. * Include postcard response cards in wedding invites. The postage is less, and you don’t have to spend money on an extra envelope. * Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding. Otherwise you could be facing a fine. * Many different foods can be cooked in advance and frozen instead of hiring a

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The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Page 14

Things to consider when a B

Bridesmaid is Pregnant

ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable. The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe.

rides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common. Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump -- sometimes it’s even the bride herself.

* Breaks: Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring. But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others. Ensure your mama-tobe has ample time to sit and rest. Also, try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable.

Barring a medical condition, there is no reason a pregnant woman can’t be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations, so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding. There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved. Think over these things.

* Nonalcoholic drinks: From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself, be sure there are plenty of nonalcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy.

Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well.

* Gowns: One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing. While nonpregnant members of the bridal party won’t fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day, a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception. This will have to be taken into consideration. Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women, but they may not exactly match

Having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning. the other gowns in mind. Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown, including ordering a much larger size, adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly. Also, be considerate and choose a gown in an

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empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid. * Shoes: While pregnant, some women’s feet swell. Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable. Low heels or

* Travel: In the latter months of the pregnancy, many doctors advise against air travel. Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well. If you were thinking about having the wedding far away, these are things that must be taken into consideration. You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party.

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* Ceremony: It can be tiring for a pregnant woman, especially one in the last trimester, to stand for a long period of time. If you are having a long, religious ceremony, see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest. * Declined invitation: Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding, while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest. Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined, and do not hold it against the person if she feels she won’t be able to commit during her pregnancy. * Patience: Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day, having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of “oohs and aahs” and attention for her as well. It’s a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while. And remember, the “something new”at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way!

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

Page 15

Use Cuisine to Create a

Wedding to Remember

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding, it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun. Therefore, instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles, or whether the cake should have an extra tier, couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus.

Although certain foods are wedding staples, it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare. Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy.

Whether you are cooking yourself, having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall, think about foods that will please guests and select those items, regardless of them being fancy. Here are some other tips. * You want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor. If you’re planning on several courses, keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered. * Classic foods can work well as wedding fare.

Roasts, barbecued meats and favorite pasta dishes can make guests feel like they’re dining at

pleaser. Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits, cheese or chives. * No idea is silly, and serving any type of food in a hors d’oeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair, whether that food is pizza or caviartopped crackers. * If you have a favorite restaurant that serves delicious food, find out if they will cater your wedding. * Just because it isn’t on the menu doesn’t mean it cannot be prepared. Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences.

Provided you’re willing to pay a little more, there’s a good chance you can have items that aren’t on the standard catering menu. * Think outside the box for your cocktail hour “bars.” A bread bar, a dipping station, milk and cookies service, or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations.

Although it’s your wedding, ultimately the goal is to please the guests. By choosing foods they will love and rave about, you’re guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding.

someone’s home and not at a wedding. * Choose items people have heard of. Instead of tornadoes of beef, select a hearty prime rib. Just because a dish sounds fancy doesn’t make it taste better. If a guest doesn’t know what he or she is eating, it can be uncomfortable. Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods, either. Otherwise, some picky eaters may be left hungry. * Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding. Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny, waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation. * Don’t make vegetarians an afterthought. Too often, vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together, which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes. Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious. * Mashed potatoes are a crowd

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Tips for trying on

Wedding Gowns

The News Reporter | Wedding Planner 2012

M

any brides-to-be look forward to the day when they visit a bridal salon and are able to try on gowns for the first time. There are certain tips that can make the day go much more smoothly and potentially reduce the amount of time it may take to find the perfect gown.

Page 16

Your Special Day . . .

We Can Outfit You In Style

* Wear a supportive, well constructed strapless bra or corset in your correct size. If you will be wearing a petticoat, also have the right size available. * Go without face makeup when trying on gowns so they remain clean. * Try to wear your hair similar to the style you have in mind for your wedding. * Note that the size of the wedding gown you will wear is typically one to two sizes larger than your day-to-day clothes.

Proper measurements can be matched to designers’ size charts. * It’s best to limit the number of people with whom you shop to 1 or 2 trusted friends or family members. An entourage can be confusing. * It’s always better to order a slightly larger gown and leave room for alterations if you are between sizes.

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