THE NEWS REPORTER
2015
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2015
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THE NEWS REPORTER
2015
Congratulations on your up-coming wedding! This Wedding Planner is full of tips, tricks and advice to help you as you plan your big day. You’ll also find information from all the local businesses that want to help make your wedding day special. Enjoy! On the cover and left: Local couple, Spencer and Lindsey (Merritt) Register. Photography by Capture It Photography. See page 11 for more details on announcing your wedding in The News Reporter, and online in your own flipbook album at Whiteville.com
Fresh floral styles to complement you and your wedding. • Bridal Bouquets • Bridesmaid Bouquets • Wristlets & Corsages • Boutonnieres • Centerpieces • Reception Florals • Ceremony Arrangements • Candelabras • Kneeling Benches • Much More
Tip Top Florist 140 Memory Plaza, Whiteville • 642-5398 John and Louise Barkley, Owners
Vineland Station 701 S. Madison Street, Whiteville
Available For:
• Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners • Receptions • And Other Special Events
Covered Pavilion Available Now For more information, call 640-2030 www.vinelanddepot.com
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Finding the right photographer for your wedding By FULLER ROYAL, M. Photo. Cr., F. Ph.
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t a time when brides have more options than ever before for their wedding photography, far too many of them don’t do their homework beforehand and, as a result, are left with images that don’t live up to the excitement of their once-in-a-lifetime day. Twenty years ago, there were few truly professional wedding photographers – the men and women who hauled big medium format film cameras with lights, flashes, tripods and assorted gear. They came armed with a vast working knowledge of light, composition and posing. Newer photographers added the idea of “photojournalistic” wedding coverage. These photographers delivered proof albums full of beautiful imagery and even better “storybook albums” that told the bride and groom’s story. Fast forward to 2015. Digital cameras are the rule for not
only the seasoned professional, but for the aspiring photographer. These same cameras are in the hands of absolute novices as well. Today, there are photographers who still know how to deliver the goods, but they take on many new forms in the digital age. And there are a lot of photographers who call themselves “professional,” but far too often, they lack the experience and skills to successfully cover a wedding. Oh, their hearts are in the right place and many truly want to learn the craft of photography. Still, some miss the mark and it’s up to brides to make sure they know what they are getting into. Having said that, here are some tips for choosing the photographer who is the best fit for you.
1.
Schedule a face-toface interview with the prospective photographer at his or her place of business. Make sure there is a physical address, even if it’s the photographer’s home, in case problems arise later.
2.
Ask to see samples of the photographer’s work. These should be printed. By the very nature of digital imaging, photography always has more “pop” on a computer screen. Does the photographer’s work hold its value and appearance when printed to photographic paper.
3.
Is the photographer using a professional lab?
4.
Always ask to see a completed wedding, either printed or in digital form. Any photographer can present the best one or two images from each wedding. Is he or she consistent with the quality of the work from the start of the event through the end?
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Nobody Does “I Do” Like We Do
Collier’s has it all • Custom made diamond rings • Wedding bands • Sterling & stainless flatware • Top quality name brand china patterns • Crystal stemware • Large selection of wedding party gifts
Collier’s Jewelers
A Whiteville Tradition Since 1931 717 South Madison Street, Downtown Whiteville • 642-3183 www.colliersjewelers.com
Online Wedding Registry at
www.colliersjewelers.com
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Make Your Own Wedding Invitations by Cynthia Wallace
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Another option is to do a web search for free printable wedding invitations. You’ll find bloggers and vendors with free designs that you can either download and edit, or customize right on their website, then save a final print file. One place to look is a website called www.freepik.com. Search for wedding invitations and scroll down to free files. You can download vector graphics that you can edit in programs like Adobe Illustrator, or in the free program, Inkscape. A web search for free printable wedding invitations will give you many options as well.
esigning your own wedding invitations and Save the Date cards has never been easier. Whether you just have a particular look in mind, or if you are hoping to save money by doing it yourself, here are tips and resources to help you get the invites you always wanted. For the bride who is looking to save money on her invitations, it can be tempting to pick up a couple print-yourown at home packs. While this might seem like the cheapest option, once you factor in the cost of the ink and the paper, you may find that it is actually cheaper to have them printed professionally, and you will end up with a much higher quality invitation.
Design Your Own
All in one websites A great place to start is an all-in-one website like www.vistaprint.com. They have thousands of templates for wedding invitations, save-the-date cards and bridal shower invitations. Simply choose your design, select a size, input your information and upload a photo to see an instant proof. Save your designs under your account and you can come
to look. You’ll find trendy designs by independent designers. The invites will be more expensive, but they offer gold foil, letterpress printing, and free envelope addressing.
You can download free templates, like this one from www. freepik.com and then customize with your own information. back, review and make changes. Then, choose how many you want and print!
Memorable Wedding Celebrations Weddings and receptions aboard
If you are looking for a higher quality invite, www.minted.com is a great place
Making dreams come true...
Henrietta III
are picturesque, romantic, unforgettable and affordable!
If you can’t find what you have in mind, you can also design your own from scratch. If you don’t have a design software on your computer, there are many that are free to download and fairly easy to use. Two programs that come highly recommended are Pixlr and Gimp. When you are setting up your file, the first thing you want to do is decide on the final size for the invitations and set your file to those dimensions with 300 ppi. (pixels per inch) This will ensure that your file will be small enough to upload online, but large enough to print a good quality resolution. Save your file as a .pdf file. Most printers prefer a pdf, as it is readable and will keep the image quality.
What to put on your invite
Public Cruise begin Aprils st 1
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Residential • Property Management Commercial • Acreage
101 Courthouse Square • Whiteville, NC 28472 Jackie Ray, Owner (910) 641-2676
Call for package information TODAY! Cape Fear Riverboats, Inc. P. O. Box 1881 - Wilmington, NC 28480 (910) 343-1611 or 1-800-676-0162 or visit our website at www.cfrboats.com
Eric Hill (910) 625-8199
(910) 642-8111 • jrayrealty.com
Ann Walters (910) 640-7473
Ricky Harrelson (910) 770-4130
Stephanie Wilson Office Manager
The first thing to decide is the tone of the invitation. Think of a few adjectives to describe how you want it to feel. Invitations can be formal, traditional or classic, they can be fun, playful, or trendy. More and more brides now choose a wedding and invitations to match their personalities, and so they can be far more causal than they have been in the past. Make sure that your wording choice and font choice match the tone you are looking for. With the growing popularity of free wedding websites, it is less important to include all the details for the wedding in the invitation. Many brides choose to only include the couple’s names, the time, date and location and then the link to their wedding website. Then guests can go on
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The News Reporter
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How to throw a successful outdoor wedding
2015
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utdoor weddings are romantic when done right, and a growing number of couples are exchanging vows amid an expansive garden or with the splendor of the pounding surf providing a picturesque backdrop. If Mother Nature cooperates, outdoor weddings can go smoothly. But even if the weather does not cooperate, there still are ways couples can enjoy a memorable ceremony. Preparation and planning help keep outdoor weddings moving along. Weather can be unpredictable and unforgiving, so it is always best to account for various scenarios. The following are some tips to consider. * Be mindful of hot weather. Many outdoor weddings occur when temperatures are at their warmest. As anyone who has had to sit outdoors in the blazing sun for an extended period of time can attest, it can grow quite uncomfortable, especially when everyone is dressed to the nines. Advise guests in advance that the wedding will be taking place outdoors and to dress accordingly. Arrange to have shaded areas for guests who may struggle with the heat. Keep chilled bottled water nearby so guests can stay cool and refreshed. Ask the officiant to keep the ceremony brief so that guests are not melting away in their seats. * Keep wind in mind. A stiff breeze can up-
Fabulous Weddings Start With Us
Page 5 set tents and wreak havoc on hairstyles. Be sure everything outdoors is properly secured and weighted down. Avoid light fabrics on a wedding gown that will get swept away by wind. A short, blusher veil may be more appropriate than a sweeping train. Couples should advise their hairstylists that they will be getting married outdoors, and looks should be well secured by bobby pins and gel to keep hair in place. Stick to real dishes for food service, as plastic or lightweight materials may get blown away. * Check for power sources. Choose a wedding location with easily accessible power outlets. Guests will certainly want to hear the vows, and that may require the use of microphones and a sound system. Having power available also makes it easier for bands and musicians to set up their equipment for an outdoor reception. If the wedding will be stretching into the evening hours, electricity will be needed to power supplemental lighting that illuminates the festivities. * Ensure accessibility. Outdoor terrain can prove tricky, especially for older guests or those with mobility issues. When scouting locations, select a wheelchair-accessible spot that can be easily traversed. Understand that turf can become water-logged and challenging to walk over should it rain the day of the wedding or prior. Plastic or fabric runners
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Rustic Farm Wedding Venue Located on the edge of the beautiful historic Fair Bluff, Horne Bay Farm has a rustic natural beauty and an easy elegance. Southern charm and Personality abound at the majestic barn, the open air pavilion overlooks ponds and horse pastures. Contrasting elements make this the perfect setting for any wedding or event.
We have this area’s largest selection of rentals for your wedding, reunion, church function or kid’s party.
• Tents • Tables • Chairs • Linens • Inflatables • Kiddie Rides • Sno-Cone Machine ♦ Romantic Country ♦ Rustic Charm ♦ Equestrian Elegance ♦ Country Western Horne Bay Farm can provide you with the props to carry out your wedding theme.
Horne Bay Farm
Bill Gore, Owner • 914-0400
Kathy H. Ashley 910-840-4091 Hornebayfarm.com
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did you know? The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely. Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour. Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.
Simply Fabulous
Kakes by Karen
918 S. Madison St., Downtown Whiteville
Karen Register
Owner/Manager 910-770-2870
Whether you’re celebrating a wedding, planning a business meeting, or just enjoying a fun gathering, The Madison House makes any occasion special. Our elegant dining room, gracious staff and flavorful cuisine, prepared by our executive chef, come together to create the area’s premiere fine dining or catering experience.
• Wedding • Reception • Rehearsal Party • Bridal Shower • Bridesmaids’ Luncheon or Brunch • Accommodations available for out-of-town guests
Circa 1865 101 North Madison Street, Whiteville For Reservations, call (910) 640-2132
Groom’s cakes make a comeback A number of couples are bringing back the tradition of a groom’s cake at their wedding celebrations.
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uests and well-wishers expect to see at least one cake at wedding receptions. But wedding guests should not be surprised if they attend a wedding and notice two cakes sharing the spotlight on the dessert table. Groom’s cakes have existed for generations but have fallen out of favor in many parts of North America since the 1970s. Now groom’s cakes are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. A groom’s cake traditionally represents something masculine, providing a contrast to the oft-feminine features, such as floral bouquets and frilly gowns, that dominate many weddings. Groom’s cake designs often reflect a particular hobby or interest of the groom’s. Historically, groom’s cakes are chocolate, a sharp contrast to traditional wedding cakes, which tend to be vanilla and white. Tradition once called for single women at the wedding to take home a slice of the groom’s cake to sleep with under their pillows. It was believed the cake would help them have sweet dreams of the man they would eventually marry. Women today are likely no longer snuggling up to fondant and mousse cake slices at night, and wedding cakes are no longer relegated to vanilla cake with vanilla icing, which may account for the waning popularity of groom’s cakes. Yet with wedding cake bakers showing off their creative prowess on television or through their own artistic bakery displays, it’s no wonder that couples looking for something unique are once again embracing the tradition of groom’s cakes. Couples who are mulling whether or not to add a groom’s cake to their menus should consider the following tips. · Make sure it is highly personal. Groom’s cakes typically reference hobbies, affiliations or interests of the groom. Some men may want
their cake to showcase the logo of their favorite professional sports team, while others may want a cake inspired by a favorite superhero. · Involve the groom in the process. Despite the name, groom’s cakes may not always involve the groom. A cake may be designed or selected by the groom’s bride-to-be or his mother. Some forward-thinking brides may want to encourage their grooms-to-be to select their own cakes and offer input on their designs. · Find a bakery that has experience in whimsical cakes. Groom’s cakes are very often intricate structures and sculptures. The groom’s cake may be more labor-intensive than the traditional wedding cake, so couples may want to shop around for a cake chef with the experience to pull off the design they desire. · Experiment with flavor combinations. Because the groom’s cake is all about that special guy, the flavor of the cake should be centered around what he would enjoy. The sky is the limit on flavors and can include traditional chocolate, candy bar-inspired flavors, coffee, coconut, or even a bacon-infused cake. · Consider serving the groom’s cake at the rehearsal. Some couples prefer to serve the groom’s cake at the rehearsal dinner rather than having two cakes at the wedding. Guests may not be able to fit two slices of cake after a large wedding meal, so serving the groom’s cake at the rehearsal dinner may be the best of both worlds. The bride - and her cake - typically steal the show at the average wedding. Therefore, a groom’s cake can be a special touch that allows the groom to bask in his own wedding-day spotlight
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How to build a wedding registry M any once-popular wedding traditions have fallen by the wayside. But one wedding tradition that has withstood the test of time is the wedding registry. Couples about to tie the knot still build a wedding registry so their guests know what to buy them as wedding gifts. This saves guests the trouble of agonizing over what to buy the couple getting hitched and also ensures that couples won't receive two or more of the same item. Building a registry can be fun, as couples can act like kids in a candy store and add items they might otherwise not be able to afford. But there is a method to building a registry that can ensure the process of giving and receiving gifts is comfortable and convenient for everyone involved. · Choose a national chain. Many stores will allow couples to establish a registry, but it behooves couples to choose a national chain or chains for their registry. A local boutique store might sell several items you would love to have, but that store may only be accessible to guests who live nearby, and such stores may be more expensive than larger national chains that can afford to charge less for similar products. Choosing a national chain ensures all of your guests will be able to access and purchase a gift from your registry, and make those purchases without breaking the bank.
· Choose a store with an online presence. When choosing a store for your registry, it also helps to choose a store with an online presence that's user-friendly. Ideally, pick an online retailer you have already had positive experiences with. This not only will make it easier for your guests, but also for you should you decide to return items down the road. · Choose more than one store. You also want to choose more than one store when building a registry. Some guests will prefer to shop in-store rather than online, so you want to give them some options so they don't have to drive far and wide to find the lone brick and mortar store for your registry. · Visit the stores and do your homework. Though some stores allow you to develop a registry entirely online, it still helps for couples to visit the store together and build their registries in the more traditional way. Visiting a store as opposed to browsing the store website allows you to touch and feel products, which can give you a more accurate idea of their quality. In addition to seeing the products in person, read online reviews of products before putting them on your registry so you can ensure you're getting quality items.
Hand in Hand
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The News Reporter
UPCYCLE YOUR WEDDING GOWN
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rides want to look their best on their wedding days. In addition to professional hairstyling and makeup, many brides invest in extravagant wedding gowns. Estimates suggest the average wedding gown costs $2,000. Brides who indulge by purchasing a designer dress can pay upward of $5,000 for their gowns. But even the most expensive dress will only be worn once by the blushing bride. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways brides can reuse or recycle their wedding gowns.
Heirloom
One of the easiest ways to get more from your gown is to pass it down to another bride after your wedding day. Brides frequently save and preserve their gowns with the intent of passing it down as an heirloom to a daughter or another family member. Maintain the beauty of the gown by hiring a professional dry cleaner or wedding gown preservation service to treat and package the gown before storing it for some lucky lady’s future use.
Religious outfit
If you feel the style of the gown won’t keep up with the times, the fabric of the gown can be repurposed into a baptismal outfit or a communion dress or suit. Christian children are welcomed to the faith in white clothing, which is a symbol of purity and cleansing of sin. Seam-
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stresses can fashion beautiful dresses or suits from original wedding gowns.
special occasion tablecloth. Take it out each year on your anniversary.
Play clothes
Stuffed animals
Many little girls and boys like to play dress-up. And rather than have a gown sitting in the closet, use it to make play clothes for little ones. The gown can be turned into a dress for a fairy princess or an ice queen.
Ornaments or favors
Lace from gowns can be turned into doilies, accents on other clothing, undergarments or decorative pieces for the home. A lace-covered lampshade can be a creative way to commemorate your wedding day for years to come.
Art
Use the gown as a background for artwork. Simply stretch it across a wooden frame and staple on the back. You then have a handy canvas at the ready.
Nursery décor
Decorate a baby’s nursery with a portion of the wedding dress, which can be turned into a crib skirt or pillow. The dress can also be used to create frilly curtains. A white dress will blend with just about any pattern.
Anniversary tablecloth
Measure out the length of a dining table, and cut and sew the gown into a
Present children with cozy friends that they can love for years. Cut out a pattern for a bunny or bear and use it to craft a stuffed toy from the gown. Visit a local craft shop for stuffing fill and buttons for eyes.
Donation
Some less fortunate people cannot afford a gown. Work with a church or shelter and find out where you can donate the gown to be used by someone who normally would not wear something so lavish.
Theater prop
Many plays and musicals feature wedding scenes. An upstart theater company may benefit from having a wedding gown in their costume department.
Handkerchief
Cut out a piece of the gown and sew the hem. Offer it as the “something old” or “something borrowed” for a loved one’s wedding. Wedding gowns do not need to be relegated to a closet once a bride has said “I do.” Turn that dress into something useful for years to come.
Southern. Bridal. Couture.
707 S. Madison Street Whiteville NC 28472 910.914.6109 % www.nikkicouturebridal.com Hours: Tues - Fri: 11am - 6pm ; Sat 10am - 4pm
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Looking Back...
The News Reporter Brides through the years
Phylisa Marie Frink bride of Alexander Kelly, Jr. July 1975
Peggy Ann Reeves Frances Mancil Parnell bride of Larry Monroe Stanley March 1965
bride of Samuel James Calvert, JR
April 1955
Kim Glennecia Davis bride of Alan Charles Gore September 1985
Sally Juanita Stevens bride of Charles Edward Taylor April 1955
Doris Deborah Dees bride of Larry James Gladden August 1985
Katherine Grace Lyon bride of Vance Brand October 1929
Joyce Ann Faircloth bride of Liston Spell January 1955 Catherine Simmons bride of Robert Allen Yates March 1955
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Be smart about wedding beauty preparation A
ll eyes are on the bride and groom on their wedding day. Feeling beautiful and dapper can boost a couple’s confidence and ensure they look back on their wedding photographs and videos with pride. Certain beauty basics and makeup and hair strategies can help any bride look spectacular on her wedding day. The following are some dos and don’ts of wedding day beauty preparations. DO employ the services of a professional hairstylist and makeup artist. Professionals have the experience and tools of the trade to help you to look your best. From contouring to make your face seem slimmer to enlarging the appearance of small eyes, some tricks of the trade are best left to the pros. DON’T forget to schedule a trial run. Make this appointment several months before the wedding day so you have ample time to work with your stylists and experiment with colors and hair arrangements to fit your personality and the style of your gown. Take plenty of pictures and notes so you will remember what needs to be on hand for the wedding day. DO allot enough time for the wedding day beauty appointment. If you will be going to a salon, block out two or more slots instead of one. This way the stylist does not overbook and will not feel rushed. Many brides opt to have stylists come to their homes. There may be an extra charge for this service, but it may be well worth the cost. DON’T make any drastic changes to your appear-
Classic Glamour for your wedding day
ance right before the wedding. This includes changing your hair color or texture, extreme tanning, using colored contact lenses, or chopping off all of your hair. It’s better to wait until after the wedding to change your style. DO bring a veil, headpiece, hair extensions, and any other accessories to your hair consult. This enables the stylist to practice working with these items. DON’T tweeze or wax brows too close to the start of the ceremony. Redness and swelling are common side effects of tweezing and waxing, and they can be difficult to mask with makeup. Instead, take care of hair removal a day or two prior to the wedding. DO exfoliate your skin prior to the wedding. This doesn’t necessarily mean you should endure a harsh fruit acid peel or another procedure. You can exfoliate with a gentle washing of your skin with a nubby washcloth to remove any dryness and errant flakes. Moisturize well to ensure a smooth palette for makeup application. DON’T wash or condition hair the day of the wedding. Intricate styles tend to stay better when hair has a little grip. “Dirty” hair is easier to work with than shiny, freshly washed locks. If you must wash, remember to thoroughly dry your hair before going to your appointment. DO wear a little extra makeup than you are accustomed to wearing because it will show up better
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Let Love Bloom Flawless bridal florals for a perfectly elegant day.
Olde Towne Florist Carolina Class Salon & Boutique
William T. Williamson & Staff 654-5646 • 123 E. First Ave. Chadbourn, NC
(910) 641-1187 or (910) 649-7000 Main St., Fair Bluff
In house catering service available
Kaitlin Ashley Cox, Owner/Stylist
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How to throw a successful outdoor wedding Continued from page 5...
may make things easier. Also, choose a location that isn’t too far off the beaten path. It should be close enough to a parking lot and not require guests to have to take an extended hike through nature. * Face away from the sun. Glares can make it difficult for guests to see the ceremony. Be sure to arrange seats so that guests do not have to look into the sun. This is best achieved by having the sun behind everyone for the ceremony. It also ensures that you won’t end up with washed-out photos or pictures of everyone squinting. * Ensure food is properly chilled or heated. Dining outdoors means keeping food safety in mind. Food that is supposed to be kept cool should remain on ice or be refrigerated until served. Hot foods should remain hot. Food in chafing dishes or served buffet-style also should be protected from insects. Improper handling of food can result in foodborne illnesses. No one wants to remember a wedding for intestinal discomfort.
* Use fresh flowers in potted plants. Cut flowers tend to wilt prematurely in hot weather. Rather than waste money and beautiful flowers, choose potted plants that will thrive if welltended. Guests can then take the plants home and continue to cherish the wedding long after it is over. * Budget for a tent. It is always better to have a contingency plan. Even if you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding, have a backup plan in place if the weather is uncooperative. A tent with surrounding sidewalls may be sufficient. Otherwise, determine if there is an indoor location that can be kept on standby.
* Mix up the candles. Intersperse citronella candles with the decorative ones to help keep bugs at bay. You can also consider placing small bottles of insect repellent on the tables. Guests will appreciate the gesture when biting flies or mosquitoes want to join in the fun.
Congratulations from The News Reporter!
Make sure Mother Nature doesn’t rain on your outdoor wedding. Plan for all the possibilities so that an outdoor ceremony or reception goes as smoothly as possible.
Your Big Day In print and Online
A
nnounce your special occasion in The News Reporter and create a wonderful keepsake with a customized announcement in the Lifestyle Section of The News Reporters’ Monday edition and a full color announcement online at Whiteville.com. With four different packages, you have the option to include as much detail as you want about your celebration. This is your opportunity to make headlines on your special day. Go to Whiteville.com/packages for more information.
New! Redesigned, online flipbook photo albums. Fresh, beautiful and ready to share.
Call Lifestyles Editor, Clara Cartrette, at 642-4104 for more information about how to announce your engagement or wedding in The News Reporter and www.whiteville.com
The News Reporter
Amy B. Bailey, GRI Owner Broker In Charge
2015
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Honeymoon planning made easy
Pro realty 1009 N JK Powell Blvd Oliver Plaza Whiteville, North Carolina 28472 Business 910.642.6137 Mobile 910.840.1224 Fax 910.642.0135
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2007
E-Mail amy@c21prorealty.com
Web Site www.c21prorealty.com
Each office is independently owned and operated
MultiMillion Dollar Club
Johnathan’s Travel Happiness In Affordable Travel
Ellen Steinberg 1220 Winterberry Lane Whiteville, NC 910-642-2888 esteinberg@embarqmail.com
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eddings are one-of-a-kind occasions. Weddings also tend to be stressful, even for the most laidback people. But a honeymoon gives the couple a chance to enjoy uninterrupted moments together and serves as a way to recuperate from the months and sometimes years of wedding planning. Honeymoons are a beloved wedding tradition, and some couples even combine their weddings and honeymoons by opting for a destination wedding. Because the honeymoon should be a way to unwind on a dream vacation, booking the honeymoon
and setting an itinerary should not add to the pressure of planning, and the following tips should make planning a honeymoon a snap. * Research your destination. Learn all you can about a destination before booking your honeymoon. Study the weather for the time of year you will be on your honeymoon, and learn about currency exchange, local rules and regulations and other pertinent factors to determine the best places to visit. You do not want to be met with surprises that might compromise your trip upon arriving to your honeymoon destination.
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Be smart about wedding beauty preparation Continued from page 10...
Southern Charm Wedding & Event Rentals
Vintage,Rustic & Western Props for your special occasion
Kathy H. Ashley 910-840-4091 Hornebayfarm.com
in photos. However, do not wear so much that you look clownish. A makeup artist can help you achieve the right balance. DON’T have bridesmaids wear makeup that is bolder than yours, especially red lips. No one should upstage the bride. DO experiment with any products you haven’t used before to test for allergic reactions and see how well they wear. DON’T wear too much under-eye concealer or one that is too light of a shade. This can draw more attention to problem areas than remedy them. DO bring a pain relief medication in case a tight hairstyle or headpiece causes a headache. DON’T forget that men need a little help as well. Exfoliation and moisturization can help dry skin. Guys should use a new razor and plenty of cream before shaving to avoid irritation. A dusting of finishing powder can banish shiny noses and foreheads for photo-ready faces. Chances are more photographs will be taken of a newlywed couple than at any other moment in their lives. Certain beauty dos and don’ts should be followed so couples put their best faces forward.
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Make Your Own Invitations Continued from page 4...
the website to read about more details, accommodations, dress code, registries, directions, and even RSVP and leave a note in the guest book.
Look for Inspiration If you are having trouble coming up with a design, look on Pinterest or wedding invitation sites to get ideas. Then, change up the design and make it your own. Consider adding layered patterned paper, or ribbon, twine or lace. Just keep in mind the design if you are adding anything that ties around the invite. Decide if you want the words to continue underneath so they have to remove the embellishment, or if you want to incorporate it into the design.
Printing For simple black and white printing, it can be tempting to use your own home printer. While that is an option, using a professional printer will give you a far superior final product. Choosing an online printer can seem daunting. Compare prices and services, including shipping cost and if there are fees for uploading your design. Look for reviews from other customers and see what people saying about them online. Many websites have online customer service representatives to help if you have any problems. Also, consider a local printer. Their prices may be higher than an online printer, but you will
You can download free templates, like this one from www. freepik. com and then customize with your own information.
get better customer service, no shipping cost, and you are more likely to be able to see a proof copy of your invite before they are all printed.
Mailing With mailing costs increasing , it is important to consider the mailing from the start. Many brides are choosing postcards for their Savethe-Date cards because it is far cheaper to mail a postcard than a card in an envelope. If you choose to do postcards, make sure you follow the design requirements from the post office for where you are allowed to have text on the back, and where the card needs to remain blank. If you are stacking multiple pieces of paper, or adding any kind of three-dimensional embellishment, it is a good idea to make a mock up of one of the invitations and take it to the post office. They can weigh it and make sure that it conforms to the requirements for bulky mail. The last thing you want to do is make your own invitations in order to save money, and then be surprised by having to pay extra postage on every invitation. The most important thing to remember is to have fun. This is your special day and you are inviting people you love to come celebrate with you. Choose an invite that matches your personality, the feel of the wedding, and your budget. Making your own invite is easy to do and can really help make your day special.
Not sure of your handwriting? Need a calligrapher for your upcoming wedding or special event? We can personalize invitations, chalkboards, and more!
11005 Swamp Fox Hwy. Cerro Gordo
Call 910.207.8394 www.carococallico.com
The News Reporter
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Honeymoon planning
made easy
2015
* Give yourself a full day between the wedding and embarking on your trip. Scenes of couples being whisked away to the airport right after the reception dwindles down are commonplace. But that doesn’t mean you need to leave right after the final dance. Allow some breathing room to pack, deposit wedding gifts, return tuxedoes, and tackle any other post-wedding tasks. Save the romantic “first night” as a couple for the honeymoon and enjoy a well-deserved night’s sleep. * Purchase travel insurance. One way to alleviate the stress of planning a wedding is to ensure your honeymoon investment is protected in the event of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Travel insurance is a safety net that can come in handy. Speak with a travel agent or insurance agent about how to secure travel insurance for the honeymoon. * Pack light. Don’t burden yourself down with a lot of belongings. Chances are you’ll pick up new things and mementos on the trip, and packing light makes traversing airports that much easier.
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Finding the right photographer for your wedding Continued from page 3...
Continued from page 12... * Book well in advance. The sooner you choose your destination, the faster you can begin the process of applying for passports, visas or other necessary documents. Booking early also guarantees you better seats on the flight and the ability to negotiate pricing.
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Will your finished product be an album? Do you select the images for the album? Do you design the album? Or does the photographer do all of that?
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Ask how many finished images will be in the album? And will any be retouched?
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Avoid photographers who have little or no personality or who don’t “play well with others.”
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Avoid the “photo divas” at all costs. These are the photographers who consider themselves “artists.” They sometimes forget that you are the one paying the bill.
Always look for hidden costs. Some unscrupulous photographers will sneak in fees for various services.
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If your finished product is a disc full of images, ask the photographer if each image will be properly cropped and adjusted for color and contrast.
Enough cannot be said about flexibility and likability when it comes to photographers.
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Get recommendations and referrals. Don’t go strictly by what people say online, good or bad. Hire the right photographer from the start and then trust that photographer to do right by you. Hire the right photographer and you will have one less worry on your wedding day.
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Fuller Royal is a staff writer and photographer for The News Reporter. A member of the Professional Photographers of America and the Professional Photographers of North Carolina, he holds his PPA Master Photographer and Photographic Craftsman degrees. He retired from weddings in 2012 after completing his 262nd wedding.
You and your photographer should agree beforehand on how many images you will see and/or keep. You will not want every image, nor will the photographer want you to have every image. That’s ridiculous. You are hiring your photographer to edit out the images he or she thinks are inferior.
Make sure your photographer is comfortable with the videographer you are using, and vice versa.
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Make sure your photographer has the knowledge and experience to handle any situation that arises from inclement weather to dark sanctuaries to really large wedding parties crammed onto a really small altar. Photographers should have backup cameras and flashes, extras flash cards and lenses that will allow them to zoom in from the back of the church or capture the entire front of the sanctuary in one image. They should also have cameras and lenses that allow them to create images without the use of flash.
How to build a wedding registry Continued from page 7... · Choose items that vary in price. Many couples are sheepish about putting expensive items on their registries. That's not surprising, as the cost of attending a wedding, especially one that features lots of out-of-town guests, can be substantial. But some guests, such as the bride and groom's parents and siblings, may want to give a more high-end gift, so don't be afraid to include items in a range of prices, from the inexpensive to the more costly, on your registry.
910-445-3647 captureitphotography@outlook.com facebook: captureitphotography11
· Don't abandon the registry after your big day. You won't end up getting everything you include on your registry, but that doesn't mean you should just forget about those items that never made their way into your home. Many retailers offer couples significant discounts on items from their registries that were never purchased, and those discounts may extend for as long as a year after the big day. Revisit your registry after the wedding to see if you can find great deals on those items you never received, and continue to do so until the registry expires. Building a registry can be a fun activity for couples about to tie the knot. But there are some guidelines to follow to make the process go smoothly for guests and couples alike.
The News Reporter
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2015
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How to calm those Last-Minute Jitters
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* Don’t be afraid to delegate responsibilities. In spite of months of planning, couples will still have a to-do list come their wedding days. If such a list is overwhelming, brides- and grooms-to-be should not be afraid to delegate some of the tasks on their lists. Bridesmaids and groomsmen can no doubt handle any outstanding tasks that don’t require any input from the bride or groom.
rides- and grooms-to-be are often nervous when the day they will tie the knot finally arrives. The realization that months and months of planning and anticipation are finally about to come to a head often inspires some jitters in the days leading up to the wedding. But the following are a few ways couples can calm those nerves in the hours leading up to the moment they have devoted so much time and effort to planning since becoming engaged. * Get a good night’s rest. Couples should prioritize a good night’s sleep the night before they are set to walk down the aisle. Make your last night as an unmarried couple an early night so you will look your best and have plenty of energy on your big day, which will no doubt start early and end late. A good night’s sleep can go a long way toward ensuring you’re in a good mood as you handle a full slate of responsibilities on your wedding day.
* Spend time with family and friends. Chances are your closest friends and family members are playing significant roles in your wedding, and spending
did you know?
time with them is a great way to keep your nerves in check while having a fun time before, during and after the ceremony.
* Relax as the ceremony draws nearer. As the start time for the ceremony approaches, couples about to tie the knot should take time to sit down and relax. Once their hair and makeup is finished, brides-to-be should sit down and exhale or arrange for the photographer to snap some fun pre-wedding photos with their bridesmaids. Grooms-to-be can do the same with their groomsmen, sharing a few last-minute jokes to ensure everyone is relaxed and ready to go before taking their places.
The Perfect Tuxedo Styles. At The Right Price.
A
ccording to TheKnot.com, a Web site catering to couples planning their weddings, roses reign supreme among wedding flowers. Long considered a symbol of love, roses often play an integral role on wedding days as well as holidays like Valentine’s Day or special events like a couple’s wedding anniversary. Couples embrace roses on their wedding days not only to symbolize their love for one another, but also because roses are a versatile flower available in numerous solid colors and many bicolor varieties. Tulips are another popular wedding flower. Also grown in a wide range of colors, tulips are often less expensive than roses, though rare varieties of tulips will cost brides- and grooms-tobe a significant amount of money. Though less versatile than roses and tulips with regards to their color, calla lily flowers are another popular choice for weddings. Lily of the valley, hydrangeas, the peony, and ranunculus are also popular wedding flowers. Though each type of flower is beautiful in its own way, costs can vary considerably depending on the type of flowers couples choose for their wedding, something costconscious couples should consider before visiting florists.
New selection of Colorful Vests and Tie Sets
Ask about our Free Groom’s Tuxedo Rental and Ringbearer Special
Free rental based on minimum number of paid rentals.
Downtown Whiteville • 642-5029
The News Reporter
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2015
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Page 16
Your new favorite jewelry store We have a wide variety of New Gold & Silver Jewelry, Wedding Jewelry, Consignment, Estate and Antique Gold & Silver, Michael Kors Watches, and Coins.
Coin & Consignment
New Gold & Silver Jewelry • Repairs We Buy: Diamonds, Gold, Silver & Coins 212 Brown St., Chadbourn 654-5308 • Monday-Saturday 9 am - 6 pm
BRUNSWICK PLANTATION Elegance and Southern charm are apparent to anyone who steps foot on Brunswick Plantation. You’ll be hardpressed to find a better setting for your special day. With ample accommodations for wedding guests, Brunswick Plantation is also available for other special occasions.
With a professional staff coordinated by Robin Hicken, the planning and details of your event won’t seem so overwhelming. Call Robin at 1-800-835-4533, ext. 6901 for information or to set up an appointment, or email her at robin@brunswickplantationweddings.com
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