With Ease Catalogue by With Ease Magazine

With Ease Catalogue Jamaican Wedding ...Then & Now

The Right Invite

Choosing a Tux Petals & Promises

Topp In Designz

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Editor's Desk With Ease Catalogue (WEC) Jamaica celebrates its first anniversary and we are excited! It has been an amazing journey in the short time and we are proud to be publishing our first printed catalogue. The catalogue is an advertising platform for companies and individuals who offer wedding and event related services. It provides an easy, way to locate a service provider. We wish to thank everyone who has, throughout the year, supported us through a kind word or deed. Continue using and referring persons to our catalogue. The service providers featured here are also featured online at www.witheasecatalogueja.com. We encourage you to go online and interact with these providers. Bookmark our website so that it’s easy to check for updates, get tips and information on wedding and event planning. We hope you will find the catalogue extremely useful and the next event you plan will be, ‘with ease’.

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ON THE COVER Models Candice Belnavis Stephen Edwards

Photography Christopher Fuller Chris Fuller Photography

Makeup Sharon Wint Face Forward

Bridal Dress & Tuxedo Petals & Promises

Audi Q3 ATL Autohaus

MAGAZINE CREDITS Graphic Design and Layout thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Impressive Design Studio

Printing Xpress Litho Company Limited

“I Do” Through the Years Jamaican Weddings: Then & Now “I’m getting married in the morning. Ding dong! You hear the church bell ringing” (Yellowman, 1982). When asked to describe a wedding, most people may provide the image of a bride dressed in white, walking down the aisle of a church to meet her groom and exchange vows. The idea of marriage evolved as nomadic peoples gave way to settled agricultural, trading communities, where people could come together more easily. Weddings came to be seen as having a stabilizing effect on society. Men were thought to be calmer with a wife and children, women were thought less troublesome with a husband, and children better off with a mother and father they knew and trusted. Getting married is a significant commitment between two people. In Jamaica, the wedding ceremony is an integral part of the celebration, with elaborate plans and small to large gatherings of family and friends. Data from the Registrar General’s Department in Jamaica revealed that, in this our 50th year of independence:

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There has been a 145% increase in the number of marriages registered since 1962 (from 6055 in 1962 to 14,836 in 2012)1.

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Most marriages occur in the months of April to June (2012) and July to September (1962).

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St. James with 2,728 marriages in 2012 is the parish with the highest number of marriage registrations compared to St. Andrew with 1,554 registrations in 1962.

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St. Thomas and Portland with 232 marriages in 2012 are the parishes with the lowest number of marriage registrations compared to Trelawny with 140 in 1962

1 Figures used are for the period January to September of the years 1962 and 2012

Evolution of Jamaican Weddings

Modern Jamaican weddings, from the planning of the wedding ceremony to the close of the wedding day, are largely influenced by American and English traditions. These contemporary practices have in most instances succeeded the traditional Jamaican wedding. Old time Jamaican weddings, especially “country” weddings, according to Olive Senior and Miss Lou, had many unique features, some of which have vanished with time. In the past, the bride and groom-to-be had to choose a ‘wedden’ ‘godmadda’ and ‘godfadda’ (wedding godmother and godfather) who were versed in all traditional trappings and were responsible for planning the entire wedding and seeing that everything goes according to tradition. The parents and relatives of the bride would then give whatever money they could afford for the wedding to the wedding godparents, who chose volunteers from among the relatives and friends to help with certain functions. While both godparents accompanied the couple to purchase their rings and counseled them on the pleasures and perils of married life on the eve of the wedding, they each had distinct individual tasks.

Wedding Planning

The ‘wedden godmadda’ helped the bride to choose her gown (or made the gown herself), her bridesmaids and their dresses and arranged for the baking of the wedding rum/fruit cake. Outfitted in her dress, well starched white apron and colourful bandana plaid head-tie, the ‘godmadda’ also dressed the bride on the wedding day and provided the bouquet of roses, a leaf or two of sweet-basil, or ‘noo-noo’ bush in her shoes or stockings for good luck. The bride would be dressed in a long white satin and lace gown and wedding veil while the groom and the ‘wedden godfadda’ would be dressed in their new suits. The ‘wedden godfadda’ focused on the reception. He helped the groom with his suit, arranged the music and the drink, as well as the building of the “wedden booth” on the night before the ceremony. The booth was the reception site and it was made of bamboo uprights, palm fronds interwoven to form the walls and an archway at the entrance which was decorated with flowers such as bougainvillea and ferns. He also arranged for the baking of the “show bread”, a fancy bread with elaborate twists, turns and twirls, topped off by either one bird symbolizing peace, or two birds symbolizing love.

The Wedding Day

On the day of the wedding, the wedding godparents, bridal party and guests attend the ceremony, after which the godmother gives the order for the newlyweds to be taken out on a “drive out” around the village. She then supervised the cake parade, which was a procession of 12 young unmarried women (12 women were always used even if there were less than 12 cakes) all dressed in white walking through the village with the centre cakes carried on heads and the side cakes in the hand. These women travel from the godmother’s house to the reception site chanting until the bridal party reached the reception.

The Reception

At the reception, the wedding godfather would start the cake bidding process after the parson had blessed the table. This process involved guests bidding money to unveil the cake. The bidding ended when the godmother believed that sufficient money was collected to give the couple a start in “married life”. The couple would also be given all monies from the sale of the show bread purchased by unmarried young men who bought it to give it to the woman they fancied. Other gifts the couple received were animals and ground provisions. As the wine is poured, the godfather invited people to make their speeches which are usually long, flowery and elaborate. Speeches were usually full of humour and good counsel, most of them ending with “I hope you live like Isaacs and Rebecca”. After the speeches, the godfather shouted “quadrille” and the guests, led by the bride and groom’s first dance, broke out in dancing. Dancing was followed by dinner which was a spread of mannish water (served first), curried goat and rice, fricassee chicken and rice-and-peas, roast breadfruit, roast yam, boiled banana and run dung, cane-liquor, rum and ginger beer. Slices of the fruit cake were given to each guest and the couple would save some for their first wedding anniversary. The wedding godmother would then pack baskets full of the best dishes and beverages for the bride and groom to take home and both godparents accompanied the newlyweds to their future home.

After the Wedding

The first Sunday after seven days of marriage is called “turn-thanks” day where the newly married Wedding Cake Parade couple and their wedding godparents must attend a service at the church where the marriage occurred to give thanks to God for their union. As the couple leaves the church, the godmother takes the right hand of the wife and the godfather takes that of the husband and join them together saying: “We hand you over to one another, go and live like Isaacs and Rebecca”.

50 Years and Marriage Still A Strive

An old-time wedding near Content College St. Andrew in the early 1900s

While many of the old-time marriage traditions are no longer practiced, some have survived the test of time. Wedding ceremonies are still largely held in church or if outdoors in a covered space with a minister of religion who is also a marriage officer conducting the ceremony. The maid of honour and the best man, however, have taken over the role of the wedding godparents but it is the couple who determines what goes. The ‘wedden’ booth has been replaced by hotels or private homes that offer their facilities for wedding events with food, drink, wine and ambiance at a price. Wedding clothes today still follow the latest fashion, brides still mostly wear white, carry a bouquet and the groom is usually dressed in a suit.

Notwithstanding, the length of the gown varies more now than then and increasingly the veil is becoming a dinosaur item. Additionally, it is commonplace for the bridal party to rent instead of make or purchase their outfits. Although the show bread was left off at some point in the journey, the traditional rum/ fruit cake is still served at most weddings. Nowadays, couples are asking for monetary gifts rather than household or other household related items. Couples still receive marriage counseling but in a more formal sense from their churches or professional organizations. The cake parade and bidding are things of the past but some couples dance a ‘waltz’ at their reception as a precursor to the guests joining them on the dance floor. Selected guests still give speeches and both the bride and the groom also give their speeches. Also, weddings today are less of a communal event, so unlike the past, uninvited guests are frowned upon. As for attending church, one week after the wedding, this is mostly the case of Christian couples. One thing is certain though, the husband and wife move into their own home.

Modern Jamaican Wedding Pictures

Yes, many modern practices have emerged but the traditional ways, having contributed to the stability of society through marriage, are remembered with fondness and respect. Regardless of the age or the season, “marrid a no food chuck” (marriage is no food truck); that means, there are no set timetables for marriage. Each person just has to wait until the time is right. Marriage remains a significant commitment of love, understanding and patience as “teet’ an tongue mus’ meet, but blood nuh haffi draw” (in marriage there must be disagreements or arguments at times, but there need not be violent quarrels and fight). In this way, marriages are a good thing and do help to stabilize the Jamaican society.

© Racquel Ellis, Contributor Sources: Bennett, L. (2003). “Old-Time Jamaican Country ‘Wedden’” in Gambrill, L. (ed.) (2003). A Tapestry of Jamaica: The Best of Skywritings. (pp. 79 – 81). Kingston: Macmillan Caribbean. Senior, O. (2003). Encyclopedia of Jamaican Heritage. St. Andrew: Twin Guinep Publishers. Tortello, R. Dr. 2004, July 7. Pieces of the Past: Old-time Jamaican Weddings. Jamaica Gleaner. Retrieved from http://jamaica-gleaner.com/pages/history/story0064.html. Jamaica-guide.info. Jamaica Wedding Requirements and Traditions. Retrieved from http://jamaica-guide.info/planning.your.trip/wedding/requirements.and.traditions/ Jamaican Marriage Customs. Retrieved from Jamaicahttp://www.jamaicans.com/culture/articles_culture/JamaicanMarriageCustoms.shtml

“To dream anything that you want to dream. That’s the beauty of the human mind. To do anything that you want to do. That is the strength of the human will. To trust yourself to test your limits. That is the courage to succeed.” - Bernard Edmonds

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Next issue - May 2013

Catalogue Categories 13

Accommodations

Bar Services 17 Beauty, Hair & Makeup 21 Cakes 27 Caterers 29 Decorators 31 Event Planners 35 Favors & Souvenirs 37 Florists 39 Invitation Designers & Stationers 43 Jewelers 45 Lighting

Officiants & MCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 47 Music & Entertainment 51 Party Supplies & Rentals 53 Photographers 55 Registries 59 Support Services 61 Transportation 64 Venues 65 Videographers 67 Wedding Attire 69 Wine Providers & Importers 73

What to consider, when compiling your wedding guest list The guest list is always a cause for concern when planning a wedding. The total number of wedding guests directly affects your wedding budget. Therefore many couples want to include only friends and family. But, when you have a plus one, things may really start to get out of hand. Therefore planning your list will take serious consideration and you will need to be very firm. Seating is always the main consideration. You will, at some point be putting together people who do not know each other. Therefore you want to ensure that they have things in common to keep a conversation going. You will need to visualise or map out a seating chart. Think about mixing people who can carry a conversation, and those who are avid listeners. You might also want to think about keeping some family members together, like that of the bride and groom, mixing them, so that they can get to know each other. Often times family members only get to meet each other, and maybe for years at a time, at weddings. This will allow them to catch up and reconnect. You may also consider having a kiddies table at your wedding

reception. If you are not having large tables, you can have smaller intimate settings; where the table seat no more than four to five and some two to three persons. This may depend on the type of theme or wedding you have and the wedding reception location. In this case, you can have a wider array of friends, especially if they are planning on carrying a date. This will negate you having to think about where to seat people and who they will talk with. Of course, you might want to keep a head table; this is a typical and traditional wedding practice, and a family table. Often times, couples have to think about people who have interpersonal issues or family feuds. They have to keep in mind whether to put Uncle John to the north and Aunt Jane to the south. Or if parents are divorced, placing your mom as far away from your dad as you can. Another thing to consider is how to mix or place your single and married friends; you may not want to be too conspicuous with this. The best time or opportunity to mix up your guests is when you are planning a buffet meal. Here you can play around with whom to invite, like really old friends or new associates you would like to get to know better. You will have to revisit the wedding seating arrangements on numerous occasions. Maybe because of people who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t attend the wedding, the list being increased by your parents inviting friends, or for many other reasons. Leave some room to maneuver when planning the seating for your reception; just in case you have extra people showing up. Denise N. Fyffe ÂŠ 2012, Poetess Defy, Denise N. Fyffe

Accommodations Booking a hotel depends primarily on the purpose of your visit. Begin with defining your own needs then find the hotel that best meets them. Take into consideration a few important points when deciding, such as: location, restrictions, price and amenities. When you have chosen and reserved a room, do not forget to ensure that your reservation is confirmed. Get written confirmation where possible and become familiar with one or two pointpersons before you arrive . Get clarification on what services or items are at additional costs or are included in the rate you are quoted. Many Jamaican hotels have preferential rates for residents of the island, while some provide complementary accommodation in some instances if your event is held at the hotel.

Bar Services Before contacting a company to provide bar services, decide on your alcohol needs. How many bar stations do you require, do you want a full bar, premium bar only, beer and wine only, or any combination or variation of these options? Also know what your budget is and if you want a cash or open bar. Having the answers to these questions will help the service provider determine the best arrangement for you. In addition to general alcoholic beverage needs, you should also provide non-alcoholic beverages for those guests who may not want to have any alcoholic drinks. Ask your service provider if they have ‘detox’ bar options; providing a ‘detox’ bar when you serve alcoholic beverages shows that you care about your event patrons and guests.

Wine Ordering Tip Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a guideline for ordering wine for your next event: 1 Case of Wine = 12 Bottles 1 Bottle of Wine = 6 pours/glasses Note: Bottle sizes and wine volume vary by brand and type of wine. Many standard bottles hold 750ml or 26.5ounces

Beauty, Hair & Makeup Beauty, hair and makeup are important on your wedding day and you want to be confident you will look fabulous in person as well as in pictures; so you need to find a professional makeup artist and hairstylist. Decide if you want both your wedding day makeup and hair arranged at the same location. If you already have a hairdresser no need to change now since he/she would have been familiar with your style and preference. If you are having your event outside of your area, find out if your hairstylist and make-up artist are willing to go with you and book them early. Review several makeup artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; portfolio of work and decide if their style of makeup is similar to your own. When looking over the images, check for things such as skin tone matching, attention to detail and if they include any current bridal makeup trend pictures in their portfolio of work. Request a trial from both your make-up artist and your hairstylist at least two (2) weeks before your event. Take pictures inside and outside. That way, you have a good idea of exactly how you will look and how long it will take you to get ready.

Model: Candice Belnavis Makeup: Sharon Wint (Face Forward ) Photographer: Christopher Fuller

Skincare & Makeup The celebration is fast approaching. Your wedding day includes flawless skin. All brides dream of that picture perfect day which they prepare for months in advance: buying shoes, tiara, dress and much more. The same preparation should go into guaranteeing healthy radiant skin, to have that elegant glow on her special day. Here at Face Forward we use only the best skin care line “Dermalogica” and on a case by case basis we evaluate what preparations and routine you need, so you can say “I DO” with amazing skin. Our makeup brands used on your special day include Smashbox, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (OCC), Kett Cosmetics, Iman, Makeup Forever, M.A.C., Sacha. We offer both airbrush and traditional makeup custom blended in your consultation for your special day. We have been featured in The Jamaica Observer, The Jamaican Gleaner (The Flair), Panache Magazine, www. Livestush.com and have done stage demonstrations at the leading bridal shows in Jamaica just to list a few. Our beauty school provides certification courses for makeup artists and individuals which has a high attendance. Come in and let us provide these high quality services at affordable prices or reach out to us on facebook at www. facebook.com/faceforwardjamaica . We look forward to serving you at Face Forward where “the beautiful come to shop”.

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Wedding Television Glamour Fantasy Runway

Makeup Tips If you have hazel eyes you should try: brown, lilac and pink tones eyeshadow. While if you have grey eyes you can experiment with most colors. However for added impact try bronze, grey or darker tones. To avoid looking washed out avoid shades like white.

A gloss can add shine and dimension to your lips and help them to appear larger. However try not to apply too.

Eyebrows frame your entire face, and having them too thin, too thick or too arched can look terrible, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that you have your brows close to your natural shape, and not any different.

Liquid Eye Liner

Pink Eyeshadow

Lip Gloss

Mascara

Purple Eyeshadow

Cakes When speaking with a cake maker, one of the first questions you will want to ask is if there is a possibility of sampling a cake they have baked. Most cake makers understand that the cake speaks for itself, so they will usually have samples on hand for taste-testing. Also, you will want to ask the baker what types of ingredients they use. Some stick to simple boxed cake mixes while others bake from scratch. If you would like an elaborate six tier show-piece cake, ask your baker if they provide the option of decorated cake forms. This is an economical way to getting the look you want without busting your budget. Be sure to make the person aware of your budget as well as your style and preference so he/she can match your needs against your budget.

TRADITION: The wedding cake is a very ancient tradition which symbolizes union and allows guests to share in this happiness. The fruits and grains symbolise fertility. The cake forms the central focal point at the reception. It dates back at least to the Romans who ate cake made of wheat flour, salt and water while the ceremony was in progress. Tiered and iced confection was introduced to Britian from France after the Restoration of 1660.

TRADITION: Originally the cake was crumbled over the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head! The top tier is set aside and kept until the christening of the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first child. The guest who found the ring in the cake was said to be ensured happiness for a year. Cake was given to unmarried guests as they left the reception. They would place these slices under their pillows to improve their chances of marrying. Bridesmaids would dream of their future husbands.

Wedding Cake Etiquette There is a protocol for the handling, cutting and serving of wedding cakes. No matter how formal or informal the wedding is, most wedding couples try to observe wedding cake protocol. Protocol for wedding cakes includes the following:

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The cake should always be displayed at the reception on a beautifully decorated table.

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It should be in front of the bride's table and set so that while it's is on display it does not block a view of the head table. An ornamental knife should be placed on the table.

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Cake must be cut at the right time in the reception. For informal ceremonies and receptions this means serving it after the guests have been received and toasts have been given. For formal ceremonies it should be served after the main dinner.

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An announcement that the cake is to be cut should always precede the actual cutting of the cake, this allows mingling guests to view the ceremony.

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The bride should hold the knife in her right hand and the groom should stand slightly behind her with his right hand covering hers to make the cut, the first slice should be fed by the groom to the bride and the second bite should be offered by the bride to the groom.

s d n e r T Cake 2013

Cakes continue to be a canvas for artistic designs and inspiration. The vintage cake style with an exquisite formal look is now a popular trend. This is often times complemented with soft colours for a subtle look. But, white has made a bold come back! And what a comeback it is. From Princesses to commoners have been selecting this very stately look which is achieved with delicately placed pearls and just the right accessories. Mint has been the pick on many a lips for the 2013 favourite for its soft soothing colour.

Brides are going all out to make their cake that more special and personal. Patterns from fabric, invitations, wedding dresses and other themes have been hand painted, embossed or piped onto cake to achieve the one of a kind perfect look. Old jewelry, particularly broaches and pendants are being reproduced to adorn cakes with jewelry. Nature is a huge trend for 2013. Hand made sugar flowers continue to take centre stage. However, birds are huge in home dĂŠcor and fashion right now and that trend will carry over into cakes and cupcakes as they make for a beautiful, natural wedding theme. Speaking of cupcakes! Table cakes, individual guest cakes, cupcake towers says why have only one cake when you can create a cake buffet for your guests with an assortment of flavors, styles, colours, designs and shapes. What is clearly the overarching dominating trend in cake is personal style, taste and imagination a mixture of which cannot go wrong in any setting. Kerry-Ann Lewis Pearcy ÂŠ2012, Sweetest Regards

1876. 471. 9499 www.sweetestregards.com info@sweetestregards.com Sweetest Regards produces creations of the heart. Each item is designed with the client and produced with the single focus to please both the eyes and the taste buds. Let us bring to life the Wedding of your dreams. From planning, venue sourcing and custom invitation design to exquisite dĂŠcor, flowers, cake and food. We will make your wedding that more special. A custom built cake capturing the personality of the lovely couple, or individual cakes for each guest to appreciate, or a cupcake tower of different flavored cup-

products and giving customers Creations of Heart Works of Art. cakes, or a dessert stand will give you sweet memories for years to come. We will transform any location into a picture perfect setting. Any event, be it a christening, seasonal party, family gathering, product launch or conference Sweetest Regards delights in producing the best

Caterers Caterers are often the heart of a wedding reception or event. If the food tastes great and there is plenty for everyone, people will leave the event satisfied and with fond memories. However, if you choose a caterer who is not knowledgeable about the amount of food to prepare, your guests will remember this fact, no matter how elegant and special the rest of the event was. Provision of food can take up to fifty percent of your event budget so choose your caterer with care. When you have determined your menu, ask your caterer to provide a tasting for you. If you are using a caterer for the first time, ask them for and speak with their past and current customers. This will give you a good feel of whether or not they can handle an event of the size your are planning.

Choosing a Menu The food should be delicious, attractive and practical. A firm of caterers specialising in wedding receptions will suggest a variety of menus to suit most budgets. A buffet provides the most scope. A finger-buffet enables guests to eat while standing while a fork-buffet requires guest to use cutlery and sit down to eat and if specific places are laid out, each guest will be assured of a seat. A finger or fork-buffet allows the guests more choice where a range of tastes, including both popular and unusual, may be included for variety. A buffet meal could include: meats, sausage rolls, cheeses, quiches; sandwiches, rolls; salads with dressings; celery boats; crisps and nuts; raw vegetables with dips. The main course should not be too unusual as it needs to please most guests and should be easy to consume. Roast meats are a good choice, served with a suitable gravy or sauce. A good selection of vegetables of the most popular varieties is preferable to something more unusual. Colour and presentation are important too; white meat with cauliflower and boiled potatoes will look colourless whereas green beans and carrots will add attractive colour. Choose vegetables to complement the main dish in taste and preparation. Desserts are a popular choice and can be something light and refreshing that would complement a rich main course for example, a fruit salad or mousse. To follow a lighter main course, a heavier dessert such as a pie or fruit tart may be appropriate. The dessert selections, whether finger, fork, knife and fork types, must be considered carefully since they can make quite a difference to the choice of menu. Nuts and mints placed in small bowls add a great finishing touch. Source: The Complete Wedding Organiser & Record- C. Chapman

Typical menus for different types of receptions: • • • • •

Morning (10 A.M. - 1 P.M.) : Breakfast (sit-down or buffet) - coffee, tea, muffins, croissants, crêpes, quiche, berries, fruits. Midday - Noon : Brunch (sit-down or buffet) - same as above plus salads, pasta, salmon, chicken and sparkling wine. Early Evening (4 P.M. to 7 P.M.): Cocktail party or food stations - seafood and pasta, breads, carving station, cheese, fruit, wine and champagne. Evening (6 P.M. ) : Traditional sit-down Dinner - cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a three-or four-course dinner including soup or salad, poultry, fish, meat entrêe with vegetables, and dessert. Late Evening (8 P.M.): Sit-down dinner or food station buffet - Hearty hors d’oeuvres or a light supper of fish or chicken, vegetables and pasta .

Decorators Décor is the piece that ties the whole look together with all the elements required to set the tone for your event. Don’t stress about the décor for your special event, trust a professional decorator, someone with design expertise and experience to give you peace of mind. A decorator isn’t just someone who knows what colours complement one another – a true professional has not only ideas to offer and advice to give, but will listen to what you have to say. Once you have booked and arranged for the venue for your event, visualize what effect and theme you want for the event and how you want your event patrons to feel in the space; then you are ready to make an appointment with a decorator. Be open and honest about the budget you intend to allot for the decorations. This will help the decorator to choose certain supplies that are matched to your desired theme at a cost that is also coordinated with your financial dreams.

Outdoor Wedding Decoration Checklist Check It Twice! Marquee. Are you renting a marquee? Will it fit in your space? What kind of decorations should it have? Tables and chairs. Do you have these, or do you need to rent them? How should they be decorated? Ceremony backdrop and seating. If you're having the ceremony outdoors as well, make sure you have a plan for the backdrop, if needed. It's convenient if you can use the same chairs for the ceremony and the reception/dinner. Bridal entrance. It's nice if you add a little pizazz to the area where the bride will be entering from. 30

Event Planners An effective Event Planner should be able to take the vision you have for your event and turn it into a reality far beyond your expectations. If you know what type of event youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to produce, organize your wish list then be very clear as to what you want and convey your needs to the Planner. A great Planner is able to identify the goal of the event you want produced, incorporate the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products or services, make proper protocol arrangements for the different types of guests likely to attend the event and manage the budget to create an event that meets or exceed your expectations. A thorough event Planner becomes the point of contact for all your vendors, suppliers, volunteers and other event personnel.

materialize and act as quasi insurance. You may think that the only reason you will need security is to handle that one unwanted person who will make a scene about their long lost love. But it is not uncommon for uninvited and in some cases invited guests to walk off with gifts, fixtures and personal items. The risk of this becomes even greater dependent on your wedding location. Consider the following security measures to implement, even if you don’t hire a professional security company: 1. Make a list, check it twice and stick to it – If your wedding is in a relatively open or public location, having your event planner or day-ofevent coordinator stick to your guest list and prescreen everyone who has access to the immediate ceremony and other key areas is always a good idea. If they are not on the guest list, they should not be allowed. If your event is in a hotel, the risk is a little lower because the many security checkpoints may dissuade most thieves.

SECURITY!! It is now standard procedure at most organized events to pass through a security checkpoint, with at least one male and one female security personnel doing searches and pat-downs. When you are going to an event, you want to have the confidence that nothing will go wrong. Nothing builds this confidence more than knowing you have trained professionals that are ready to assess any threats and neutralize them before anything serious happens. You also feel safe knowing that even if something does happen, someone is there that can handle it right away. However, unless you are among A-List celebrities, it is unusual to see security personnel at a wedding. I wonder why though. There could be the misconception that security is an unnecessary expense; or the fact that it is just not a consideration among the bouquets, buffets and boutonnière botches. In Jamaica, wedding insurance is not popular, and unless you do serious research, it will be hard to find a company that even offers it. Having security at your wedding could cover some of the risks that may

2. Designate a Gift-Marshal – Too often persons seize the opportunity to take up unattended gifts. The trend of having a money tree or money box at weddings now makes the opportunity for theft easier. Agree with your event planner well before your event exactly how the gifts will be secured during the reception and afterwards. Designate one family member or friend to collect and hold on to your gifts. By the way, you don’t want to know that your guests’ vehicles were broken into while they were at your wedding. Consider getting a security officer to patrol your already well-lit parking area (hint, hint) or to escort your guests to their vehicles when your event is over. You can always stipulate that they wear a nice suit instead of their uniform so that they blend well into your photos and the thieves won’t know that they are being watched . Charlene Chevannes-Chambers, ©2012, NC3 Events

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Why is the wedding ceremony sealed with a kiss? The kiss represents an exchange of spirits, uniting the couple in both body and spirit. Some cultures consider the kiss to be a legal bond, the action that seals the marriage contract. Why does the bride carry a bouquet? This custom originated with the ancient Roman belief that carrying bunches of fragrant herbs and flowers would ward off evil spirits.

Favors & Souvenirs Favors or souvenirs are more than just a token of your appreciation; they are an excellent way to personalize your event. By choosing items that go well with your event design you will be able to show your appreciation while leaving a long, lasting impression on your guests. Consider dual purpose souvenirs such as a photo frames used as place cards. One trend in souvenirs is to make them practical or functional; so if you choose to personalize a wine stopper for example, every time your guest is enjoying a bottle with other friends, you will come to mind. The practical or functional souvenir is ideal for corporate events but is suited to weddings, baby and bridal showers and almost any other event. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to get creative; this keepsake will remind your guests of your special day for a very long time.

Bride's Bouquet: Who Pays? Traditionally, the bride's parents pay for the bride's flowers at a wedding. Flowers for weddings are seen as a personal part of the bride's accessories and many parents (mothers especially) view buying the flowers as being a sentimental part of the wedding experience. These days wedding costs often fall along non-traditional lines, and if the couple is paying for the wedding they may purchase the flowers themselves. It would be a thoughtful gesture if the parents offered to buy at least the bride's bouquet.

Florists When you meet with the florist, specify the date of the event and the exact type of flowers to be used in each area of your event. The date of your event will help the florist determine whether the type of flowers you are requesting is available at the time of the year. Ask the florist to provide you with a sample arrangement before signing a contract so that everyone has a clear idea of the size and design of the product.

Wedding Flowerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meanings

Want to give extra-special meaning to your bouquet? Consider the traditional meanings behind each wedding flower:

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Invitation Designers & Stationers Ordering invitations for an event requires a good deal of thought and the ability to make appropriate decisions. The first decision is the choice of Designer or Stationer. Select someone that offers a variety of papers, styles and prices; one who is quite knowledgeable about wording and type styles. Look through samples of their work to determine if they are able to produce something that captures the look and feel of your event.

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Wedding invitations, like other aspects of wedding planning are of utmost importance and require the greatest attention to detail imaginable. Now that he’s proposed, your mind is overflowing with all the possibilities and themes that could be explored to mark one of the most defining moments of your life. Deciding on the actual colours and theme of the wedding may have been something you didn’t give much thought to until now. In addition to this, you have to think of who to invite, should the invitations be based on whether you are having a morning, afternoon or evening wedding? To top all this, you will have to give much consideration to the actual budget to be set on the wedding invitations. To assist in making the right decisions, here is a guide to putting together The Right Invite. When approaching the designer of your invitations, always bear in mind that though they will be able to offer suggestions based on what you say, the final decision will be left with you. Brides to be can be very indecisive at the best of times, as wedding invitations are a statement piece, the safest way to go about designing your invitations is to have them custom made. With customization, it allows the designer to be able to make evaluations and to discern your tastes allowing you to think outside of the box, to make changes wherever necessary and to above all,

incorporate your personality and style which puts a stamp on the day you have perhaps dreamt of since you were a little girl. When wedding invitations are custom made; you avoid having to deal with imported stationary that are more often than not, in the wrong colour, the paper type may be wrong or not matching the theme you are working with and having to deal with the incorrect font size makes it incredibly difficult to make corrections, leaving the designer with little or no room to make the necessary changes. There are many advantages to be gained in having an experienced local wedding invitation designer handle the stationary for your wedding. Being able to make an appointment to meet with them to have an in-depth discussion of what you want, how you wish for it to be presented, to actually see , touch and select from the colour palettes and paper samples; has to be one of the greatest pluses. Going local not only supports the pool of talent found in Jamaica, it helps to further strengthen an industry that has to constantly be competing with low quality imports. There are many businesses within Jamaica with exceptional talent in the wedding designs and custom invitations arena. Of the many there is the recently up and coming Topp in Designz, a paperie boutique based in Kingston, Jamaica, making quite an impression on many brides to be both locally and internationally. Their work comes highly recommended; by selecting them you can’t go wrong. When seeking the right company to handle your custom made wedding invitations, go local, they are near and they are here to help. Sheri-Ann Toppin, Founder & Creative Director, © 2012, Topp In Designz Ltd.

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Jewelers Your wedding band will be worn for the rest of your life, why not make it a significant piece that you will fall in love with every time you put it on? Traditionally, the groom selects the engagement and wedding bands for the bride and vice versa. The modern couple however, sometimes goes the route of having their wedding bands custom made to embody the specific tastes of the wearer. When selecting wedding bands, consider the existing jewelry that the person you are buying for has, and select a piece that will complement them nicely. One wedding trend and truly romantic gesture is to purchase a complementary piece of jewelry as a wedding gift that is presented before the ceremony; so a groom may buy a bracelet that goes nicely with her wedding band as a gift for his bride.

The Wedding Ring -

Tradition & Superstition

Symbols have been used throughout history to mark important events in people’s lives such as weddings and christenings. The giving of rings has been part of the marriage ceremony for centuries. Early man tied plaited grass circlets around the bride’s wrists and ankles to prevent her spirit from escaping. In some ancient cultures, married couples wore a rope of twine around their wrists. Later, it became customary for the groom to give his future bride a gift when they became betrothed and also a gift at the wedding itself and this practice has developed into the custom of giving rings which is still retained today. Gold became popular because of its high value and the ease with which it could be valued. The ring is a sign of possession, a token of the couple’s pledge to each other and an announcement to other would-be suitors that the bride is otherwise engaged. The popularity of diamonds stems from their hard wearing qualities and the belief prevalent in Italy during the Middle Ages that they represented reconciliation and were capable of restoring harmony. Engagement rings first appeared in the Medieval period. Traditionally, the man buys the ring and then makes the proposal but today most women help to choose the ring. The ring has always been a symbol of harmony and unity, and very early in history was adopted as a suitable symbol for a married couple. Jewish law deems that the exchange of the ring legalises the marriage. The earliest examples of wedding rings are Roman and were made of iron, representing the durability of marriage and a sign that a down-payment or contract had been made. As women’s role in society has changed, brides have begun to give a ring to the groom in return. In fact this now happens in many wedding ceremonies. The completeness of the circle shows love flowing in a continuous stream. Two matching rings, one for the bride and one for the groom suggest togetherness. Exactness of fit signifies harmony and perfection and never taking the rings off determines permanence. Placing the ring on the third finger of the left hand recalls the ancient belief that the ‘vein of love’ ran directly from the heart of the tip of the left hand’s third finger, although this practice is not held in all cultures. Source: The Complete Wedding Organiser & Record - C. Chapman

Lighting No matter the event you are organizing, lighting plays a major role in creating a successful function. Decorative lighting creates the ambiance for parties and important events. You can dictate the mood you want your guests to have. Candlelight within a dimly lit room will automatically convey a feeling of intimacy; persons will naturally speak in lower tones. A brightly lit room is conducive to louder conversations and a more vibrant, energetic setting; however if you want a party atmosphere where persons feel free to dance, you must have a good symbiosis of light and shadow. This is why it truly is important to get an event lighting company that knows how to visually optimize the lighting experience.

Lighting Lingo

Color wash: There are a few different types of light fixtures that can create a "wash," which is basically a blanket of colored light covering an entire area.

Pin spot: A focused beam of light that shines directly on to an object, like a centerpiece or wedding cake, as a highlight effect.

Officiants & MCs Deciding who will officiate or MC your wedding ceremony or event is one of the most important decisions in the planning process. Your perfectly planned event can be thrown into a tailspin if the wrong officiant is used. A good Master of Ceremonies is able to seamlessly guide your programme from start to finish and include appropriate humor when necessary, while observing the necessary protocols. Selecting the officiant for your wedding often involves using someone that is close to the couple. Regardless of the ties to your officiant, ensure that they are licensed to carry out the ceremony. Consider also where your ceremony will be held; some churches do not allow their ministers to conduct wedding ceremonies outside of the sanctuary. Be sure to book your officiant well in advance.

TRADITION Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe. The custom of wearing ‘something blue’ originates from ancient Israel where a bride wore a blue ribbon as a symbol of her fidelity. The placing of a coin in her shoe is said to bring wealth. Something ‘old’ was frequently an old garter. Other ideas for this tradition include family weddings and blue flowers.

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Music & Entertainment The importance of music and entertainment to the success of an event should never be underestimated. When hiring any of these services make sure that the contract specifies the date and location of the event; the time of arrival; whether they will bring their own sound and amplification systems; the number and duration of breaks that will be taken; the number of hours they will play; what you want them to play and the cost of possible overtime charges. If you have been referred to a performer or band and you are not familiar with them, try to attend a function they are performing at so that you will know if they fit into the overall feel of your event.

CONTACT FOR: • Clean entertainment tailored for your corporate events • Edutainment for your functions, conferences, forums, workshops, consultations • Motivational sessions/Workshop facilitation/MC duties • Jingles, commercials/voice overs

For the Guests: When to Dance? Some guests have been embarrassed to discover that the first few songs were not intended for them dance to. The general rule is that the first two songs are reserved for the bride and groom, and then the bride and her father. Pay close attention to what’s going on. If they do invite guests on the dance floor, then by all means join right on in!

Party Supplies & Rentals Choosing the right party hire company for your wedding or corporate event can seem like a bit of a daunting task. Some companies specialize in certain types of events, such as corporate functions or weddings. Other companies specialize in outdoor events and provide everything needed to create a wonderful event outside. The right party supply or rental company for you knows what you are looking for and can provide you with a number of options for the items you want to hire. A good idea is to write a list of all the things you will need to source from a party hire company, including things like catering equipment, marquee and anything else. It is better to get everything from one source than to get from multiple companies.

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Napkin Glassware Plates & Cutlery

Cushion Tips:

Rent from one company Renting from multiple companies is not recommended. Renting from one company eliminates the stress of trying to figure out which items belong to which company. The party-rental company you choose should have a wide variety of products, so it becomes one-stop shopping.

Table Cloth Rent what you need Basically, you can rent anything and everything outside of the food and the wait staff. However, you should make a list of the things you will need for your event then decide on what items you can borrow or would need to rent.

Photographers Pictures constitute the main lasting visual recollection of your event. Therefore it is recommended that you work with a photographer that specializes in the type of event you are hosting e.g. weddings. Find out the different packages and costs available then figure out if they meet your needs and budget. View the photographer’s portfolio to determine whether the style of work meets your expectations. Meet with the photographer sometime prior to the event to “scout” the area for the best positioning and backgrounds, especially if the photographer is not familiar with the venue. Photographers are usually booked months in advance, and should be booked early once you are satisfied with their portfolio.

Models: Kandice Belnavis & Stephen Edwards

How To Choose A Photographer In this electronic age, digital cameras have become readily accessible to all. From small point and shoot models, to professional looking digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, the label “paparazzi” takes on new meaning and anyone can call themselves a professional photographer. Does that however make them suitable to photograph your wedding, family portraits, or commercial project? Here are five things to look out for when choosing a photographer:

a photographer who is upsetting and annoying, how willing would you be to follow their instructions? The role of a photographer may change due to the stresses his/her subject may be under during the shoot. So a photographer may be counsellor, motivator, comedian or even handy man. This works best when there is “chemistry” between photographer and client.

• Shooting Style • Experience • Personality • References • Price These are listed in no particular order, but it is interesting, most are linked in some way.

References While an interview with the photographer is a good way to address the three elements above, there is another way. The experience of previous clients can also help answer some questions that you may have. So if possible speak with those whom the photographer interacted with on a professional basis.

Shooting Style Does the traditional posed photograph or a candid photo-journalistic approach appeal to you? Photographers use either of the two mentioned or a portraiture style, while some will use two or all three. Look for a photographer who shoots in a style that suits your personal taste. A pre-shoot meeting is always a good idea as it gives you an opportunity to see the photographers portfolio and get a feel for his or her style. Experience A wealth of experience is a plus in any field and the same is true for photographers. The more experience a photographer has, the more adept he will be at handling varying circumstance. For example, experience may teach a photographer that back up equipment is a necessity as failure may occur at any time. Someone more experienced would be prepared for changing light conditions throughout a wedding day, thus guaranteeing high quality images. Personality Just as you would want a shooting style that suits your taste, also look for a photographer that meshes well with you. Remember, how well you get along with your photographer can determine how your pictures turn out. Consider; if you hired

Price Usually price is foremost in the minds of photographer seekers. However, this should be the last thing considered. Why? One adage states “you get what you pay for.” So if you are thinking dirt cheap, the images you get may just follow suit. Saying it's the last thing to consider, however, certainly doesn't mean that it is of lesser importance. Have a budget and determine how far outside that budget you are willing to go. This list is not exhaustive but it certainly is a good starting point for selecting a photographer that will create memories you will treasure for a life time. Christopher Fuller © 2012, Chris Fuller Photography

Why do we throw rice? Throwing grains such as rice or wheat at the couple symbolizes the desire for fertility. It also expresses the hope for a long life with good health, successful careers, and bountiful harvests (or financial security). Why does the bride wear a veil? For much the same reason brides in ancient times had bridesmaids. By concealing her face, a bride camouflaged herself so that evil spirits couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t identify the bride. The white veil is also a symbol of modesty and virginity.

Registries Gift registries allows the gift recipient to graciously ask for those gifts he or she really wants or needs, and allows the gift giver to purchase something that he or she knows will be appreciated. The benefit to this, of course, is that the recipient doesn’t receive a gift she doesn’t want and no money is wasted. Gift registries are especially popular for weddings and baby showers, but they’re becoming commonplace for children’s birthday parties and house warming as well. Mortgage registries are also another popular option used by couples. This lets you save up for a place of your own. Whichever option you consider be sure to look at each option’s benefits, along with possible downsides for yourself or your guests. Keep in mind that guests are not obligated to shop using a gift registry. They may have a different gift in mind. There are even those who feel a gift registry is poor etiquette, that it’s bad manners to request gifts. Just remember to receive all gifts graciously and send out thank you notes. Where the gift was purchased and the type of gift purchased is not what’s important. It’s the thought that counts.

gift list trends

4 of the latest

wedding registry trends: 1. Lifestyle lists

A new trend in wedding gift registries is for lifestyle gift lists, where guests can contribute towards home ownership, club memberships, or any special interests the couple might have.

2. Honeymoon lists

Asking guests to contribute towards the cost of your honeymoon is a very practical way to enjoy your wedding gift. Guests can either make a general contribution towards the holiday of a lifetime, or can pay for specific items such as a romantic dinner, a diving experience, or an excursion during the trip.

Wedding gift registries have moved on from mundane household appliances and pretty floral patterned china, to registries for just about anything when they get married. Wedding registers have taken on a whole new meaning. No longer will you be the embarrassed recipient of gifts you really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need. Make the most of being able to choose exactly what gifts you would like for your wedding. You and your fiancĂŠ will have the time of your lives making up your wedding gift registrar

3. The Bar basics

If you love hosting dinner parties, barbecues and family and friend gettogethers, a mini bar would be the ideal gift to have listed on your wedding registry. There is a host of items you can now place on your list, martini glasses, classic wines, a liquor cabinet, champagne glasses, wine goblets, juice squeezers, fancy corkscrews, crystal wine decanters and so on.

4. Traditional household lists

Many couples do still choose to register for household items, but even these lists are taking on a different style. Traditional delicate china is being replaced by chunky crockery in bold colours and patterns, and couples are registering for luxury domestic items. Glassware is still a popular item on many gift registries.

Support Services The service providers here are individuals or companies that offer services that complement those offered by the wedding or event service providers.

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MAY 2013

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Transportation Regardless of your preferences or budget, transportation will factor into your event planning process. If you have to accommodate a large wedding party, separate limos for the bride and bridesmaids, and groom and groomsmen are a popular choice. For smaller parties, you may opt for separate cars for the bride & groom and bridal party. Once you have made a decision about which company to hire, book the service from three to six months in advance. If your wedding falls on a Saturday during the busiest wedding months, be prepared to compete for the same services and vendors

Models: Kaci Fennell & Stephen Edwards

Venues When contracting a venue for an event, specify the exact time you want to occupy the space (e.g. 2p.m. to 7p.m.) Sometimes venues may book more than one event in the same space on the same day but at different times, so it is important to stick within the time specified. If it is your first time having an event at a venue, it would be good to get a feel of the space at the same time of day that your event is scheduled. Request a walk through of the venue and take lots of pictures. Consider your patrons and their accessibility, parking, lighting, security when choosing your venue. Many venues have preferred vendors and will charge additional costs if you use vendors that are not on their list. They also tend to have restrictions on other items such as food, beverages, dĂŠcor and branding; do not be afraid to approach your meeting with a checklist and request that all conditions are outlined in writing.

things to consider when choosing a venue

1 Location

Nobody likes to spend time traveling and hence, when deciding on your venue, you must keep this in mind. Have a look at your expected attendees and then choose a location that would seem appropriate to most of them.

2 Size

No one likes being in an overcrowded room. Therefore, when choosing a venue, make sure that the place would still have some breathing space after all of your guests have arrived.

4 Price

While price may be a deciding factor when choosing a venue you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to overspend on the venue as that would mean curtailing your other expenses. Analyze your budget and compare prices with similar venues in the same area to determine how much to allocate to the venue without disturbing the rest of the plan.

3 Amenities

Most venues today provide the basic amenities and facilities that would be required during an event. However check that they exist and have been well maintained.

5 Visit

Visiting the venue to check out all the facilities is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This will help you determine if the venue is ideal for your event and can accommodate all your guests. Look at some of the previous events that had been hosted at the venue to get a better understanding of the place.

Videography A fine way to complement your wedding or event photo album is by hiring a videographer to capture those same moments onto video. Through both photos and video, your day can be captured and shared with your family and friends for years to come. Just as a professional photographer is integral in creating quality photos, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to hire a professional videographer to ensure the delivery of a quality video as well. For this reason, a professional whose work is trusted and backed by experience in the field is essential. In order to ensure services with a reputable videographer be sure to search early and book the services at least 6 to 8 months before your wedding day.

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Wedding Attire When ordering your attire make sure that proper measurements have been taken. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to order a dress that is a little bit large than one thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too small. The time to order the wedding gown is four to eight months before the wedding. Where the wedding party attire is being made (not rented) allow enough time for completion as well as additional time for fittings and alterations. Rented attire is sometimes more viable an option to purchasing. The same time rules apply to rentals though, so make sure to book well in advance to allow time for adjustments and fittings. It is not unusual to rent suits for other occasions as well.

Models: Kaci Fennell & Stephen Edwards

Men’s Formal Wear

Event Decor

Wedding Stationery

Bridal Dresses

929-3778 • 968-6859

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SCAN ME

Choosing a Tux The last twelve months have been nothing but serious wedding planning. The venue has been chosen, the caterer booked, the minister, musicians and photographer in place, the décor and flowers selected and then of course your dress. But what about your groom? He needs a Tuxedo! Should he purchase or Rent? Purchasing a classic tuxedo is a wise investment if you attend four or more formal occasions for the year. Ladies, if your guy is trend-conscious and doesn’t plan on wearing a tux as often, then he should rent. Renting a tuxedo allows him the pleasure of not spending hundreds for an outfit that he will only wear occasionally. In today’s world, renting is the most popular and cost effective way for the groom and his party. Renting is easier than you may think… Ladies tear this section out for your Grooms

Step 1 Find out the basics

What color is your bride’s dress? Remember you are the bride’s escort so if her dress is ivory, you cannot wear white. Matching her is more important and your photographs will thank you. What’s the time, location, degree of formality of your event? What’s your personal preference and of course your budget? You should expect to pay anywhere between $6000 for a conventional tuxedo to $13,000 for top-notch designer formal wear. Step 2 Make an appointment to visit Petals & Promises Boutique, where our consultants will advise on what is appropriate and available. Plan to spend some quality time with your bestman, then equipped with colour samples to coordinate the bridesmaids’ dresses, a credit card and an open mind,

Step 3 At your appointment, try different jacket designs based on your height and size. Options regarding your choice in shoes, shirts, vests, cravats, ascots, Windsor ties or bow ties will need your bestman’s opinion. Let him use the camera but remember don’t send the bride the pictures and don’t upload as your profile picture. Once you ensemble has been decided, then select for the rest of your party, ensuring that your wedding colours are correctly incorporated. Don’t forget to accessorise with studs, cuff links and pocket pieces. In our hot climate vests are optional. Step 4 A deposit is needed to confirm your booking, so don’t delay. Finalize your transaction by making your first payment and sign up for a Petals & Promises Payment Plan. You will have spent quality time with your bestman, earned some brownie points with your fiancée and made a choice not just to be dressed but to be well dressed on your special day. Step 5 On your wedding day, get dressed, relax and arrive in style! Visit Petals & Promises today to view our selection of Men’s and Boy’s Formal Wear for your special event Kara-Ann Anderson © 2012, Petals & Promises Jamaica

Veils

Flyaway A multi-layered veil that falls to the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoulders.

Generally, veils are cut from netting or tulle. They are typically categorized based on their length. Elbow An A-line veil ending anywhere from the elbows to the fingertips.

Finger Tip This style is usually multi-layered and touches the end of the finder tips. Sweep The veil brushes the ground extending 8-12 inches beyond the gown Chapel are two and a half yards in length

Cathedral are four yards long and considered very formal.

Wine Providers/ Importers Pairing wine with food is more an art than a science, but that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean any random pairing is as good as any other. Wines are as diverse as the people who love wine. Every style of wine contains variations from region to region and every wine expert has different opinions. The bottom line is to choose a wine or bar service provider that will help you find wines that will be an appealing combination with your event menu.

Having a wedding toast is a traditional part of Jamaican weddings. This is where family and friends get to wish the happy couple well and relive, often times funny experiences. There are very funny moments to be found when best men, maid of honours, and family members recount their experiences with either the groom or bride. But deciding on who should give toasts at the wedding might be a difficult prospect. It is a long time practice for men to do the toast, but more and more women are doing toasts. If you have a wedding day coming up and are curious about how to do it, continue reading for more information. It is so easy to say something that might be misinterpreted by someone else. People look at things differently and you or your friends finding a wedding toast hilarious might actually be viewed as insensitive or rude to the other family. When coming up with a toast, try to balance this concern, and try to say something that will not offend anyone. You will also have to consider the theme or Jamaican wedding setting. Is it causal, or formal? Is it a stuffy elegant affair or a super cool beach wedding? The more informal the wedding, the easier it is to come up with a toast. One tends to have to be on their best behaviour when attending black tie, formal events. You can also get the ear of the happy couple prior, and ask questions to see type of toasts they might prefer.

Wedding Toast Etiquette

Are you wondering who will give the first wedding toast? Typically it is the best man. He will lead the way in feeding anecdotes to the wedding guests about the bride and the groom. Sometimes it is difficult being the first, but it is made easier by the relationship that he has with the lovely couple. That is why it is important that when choosing a best man, this person is really a close friend. The best man also has the added responsibility of offering gratitude to the bride and groom’s parents. He will express his wishes to them for raising their children and helping them prepare for such an occasion. The final person he should toast is the bride. The groom will follow the best man and give his wedding toast. He should thank everyone, including the parents, guests, the wedding party, and his lovely bride. It is customary to make mention of the loveliness of the of the brides maids and express his gratitude for them helping his bride. His bride should be thrilled by his reference to how they met their journey throughout their relationship and everything that’s happened, in brief, up to the Jamaican wedding day. Here he will have a chance to be funny, or very sentimental; of course soliciting tears from his new wife. The bride’s father would then proceed with his toast of welcoming family and friends, and reflecting on memories of his daughter. Other family and friends can follow, if they wish. Denise N. Fyffe. © 2012, Poetess Defy, Denise Fyffe

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