Destination Weddings

M M M

A n n i v e r s a r i e s M M M

M

Planning an event?

W e Don’t forget to book your Limousine! d

TLC �Limousine

Wollenberg’s/TLC Transportation

M M M

TLC �Limousine

d i n g Our services include: s & • WEDDINGS, Anniversaries, Proms, Casino Trips, B Any Special Occasion, All sporting events “in or out of the state” i • Service to all airports & piers r t h d • 6, 8 & 9 Passenger Limousines • Sedans • Vans • 24/7 Service a • 24 & 28 Passenger Coaches • Safe, Courteous Drivers y s (5466)

G r a d u a t i o n s

ÂcÜÉyxáá|ÉÇtÄ|áÅ |á ÉâÜ àÜtw|à|ÉÇÊ

Bristol 860-585-LIMO

M

ICC MC 210205

Thomas Livery Corporation

013840

M M M

WEDDING GUIDE

2 | Friday, June 24, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Destination weddings at nearby settings

By ASHLEY KUS CORRESPONDENT

Beach backyards, country inns and theater backdrops without actually getting away for your dream wedding? Seems like an impossible fairy tale, unless you know where to look. Connecticut offers a wide selection of places that will make any bride feel as if she’s been swept away for a day or even an entire weekend, which can be a welcome

opportunity for both the bridal party and guests who may not be able to travel far afield.

The main concept of a wedding is usually where the ceremony will be held, which is often in a place of worship. Traditional church weddings, however, are getting a modern twist with brides wanting the church feel without the full religious aspect.

New Britain’s Trinity-on-Main, a renovated church-turned-theater, is a great option. The theater boasts a

Elizabeth Park’s Pond House is a beautiful setting for a reception.

Ashley Kus

108-foot tower with an auditoriumstyle sanctuary and accompanying rotunda. Besides being an historical setting, Trinity-on-Main is perfect for the bride that wants elegance and a little bit of tradition. Event coordinator Kevin Rowe provides a day package with flexible requests and connections for rentals and catering.

A bridal couple can feel traditional while still keeping their modern-day roots. With a ceremony held nearby at Hartford’s Elizabeth Park, they can be surrounded by the glories of nature as well. The 102-acre park offers serene garden areas, pathways, greenhouses and freshly clipped lawns. Couples are able to walk down the grass aisle underneath immaculate rosecovered arches. They can then say “I do” in the equally beautiful roseladen gazebo.

Couples longing for a naturalstyle wedding can get it all at the Tunxis Plantation Country Club in Farmington. The woods in back of the main golf shop hold a small, raised altar and accompanying reception tent. The long ivory tent

g er in n mm pe

O s su i Th

is equipped with a corner bar, ladies ballroom-esque Bellavista room lounge and a large wooden dance brings the outdoors indoors. With floor so everyone will be dancing its multiple windows overlooking under the stars. the rolling golf A little ways course hills, down the road is the newlyweds, the Farmington and up to 250 Club.Its two rooms, guests, are all the Aqueduct able to enjoy Room and the the beauty of Club House, have nature without extravagant views taking a chance of 20 acres of garon the weathdens, ponds and er. The room sparkling fountains. also caters to On-site ceremonies personalized also give the bride a tastes — from simpler plan, with the food to Chris Richie | Staff the reception held Trinity-on-Main is one of many great the times the in one of the near- local options for holding a wedding. ceremony and by rooms. Wedding reception start packages are available for buffets, and end. There are no fixed packstations and a la carte receptions, ages so brides don’t have to worry along with exclusive bridal suites about not getting what they want. and gourmet food choices.

In fact, if they so choose, the golf Making an outdoor wedding course can become their altar. perfect and magical can be difWith the right location, any ficult, especially when considering place can transform into a musicunpredictable weather patterns. filled dance floor or a memorable But Southington’s Hawk’s Landing altar. At Lily Lake Inn in Wolcott Golf Club offers a solution. The brides can get married in front of the lovely Lily Lake with scenic fountains and gardens surrounding them. They can have their reception all in one place in either the Ana Delia Room or the Fountain Room, both offering views of the lake and estate. Newlyweds and their guests will experience a fun and relaxed atmosphere while walking along stone walkways and experiencing the magic of the lake. Flowers are a significant part of a bride’s agenda and so is the dream of being married somewhere new and unique, such as the seaside Bee and Thistle Inn in Old Lyme. An award-winning chef is available to cater to receptions of up to 200 people outdoors and 65 people indoors. The ocean lingers nearby and the Lieutenant River borders the property so getting married by the water is a given. With a country feel to the 1756 historical house and exclusive use of the entire property, Business events I Weddings I private parties every bride is treated to a unique day or weekend.

Every bride deserves a wedding 1 Nod Road, avoN, CT 06001 that is just for her. If she wants to have a getaway feel as if she’s at a romantic destination, these closeAvonBelleTerrAce.com to-home finds can help her create the dream wedding without ever — Under a New Management Team, A Riverhouse Property — leaving the state.

DIAMONDS AND FINE JEWELRY, INC.

74 Farmington Ave., Bristol, CT 06010 www.shannonsjewelers.com

860.404.5051

018621

860-582-8858

New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

WEDDING GUIDE

Ashley Kus

Hartford’s Elizabeth Park offers a scenic outdoor setting for a wedding, including a grass aisle lined with rose-covered arches, above, and a vine-covered gazebo, below.

Friday, June 24, 2011 | 3

WEDDING GUIDE

4 | Friday, June 24, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Heritage brings rich traditions to wedding day

By LIZ NEWBERG STAFF WRITER

Some brides will go to incredible lengths to create a lavish, memorable wedding. But while trends and fashions come and go, the heritage and traditions a couple bring to their ceremony and reception are what make lasting memories.

For Plainville resident Rachel Pineda, the meaning and richness of her Mexican-American heritage proves a touchstone for her own wedding one day. She recently attended her cousins wedding in Texas and was reminded of the unique traditions they share.

The couple had a Catholic

wedding ceremony but with a Latin flair.

One difference is the lazo, which is a double-looped rosary blessed by the priest and placed over the couple.

“In my cousin Felipe’s wedding to Melanie, the lazo was the same one that was used at Melanie’s parents wedding 35 years earlier and it was put on the couple, one loop over the bride, the other loop over the groom with the cross hanging in between as they knelt at the altar in front of the priest,” Pineda said. “The priest blesses the lazo before it goes on the couple. As it is placed on the couple, they are asked to be inspired by the example of the Holy Family

Gosia Czeladko removes her veil to throw it at her wedding reception.

Dance at the wedding!

TAKE LESSONS! Waltz sFoxtrot sSwing sPolka sRumba sSalsa, etc.

018212

e in Dancm r Sum e

Ballroom Dancing for Fun, Fitness & Sport

No dues or contracts 1st Private Lesson FREE!

Est. 1980 Singles & Couples • Group & Private Lessons Performing Arts For Children & Adults of all Levels Basic Classes Tues. American: 7pm & Latin: 8pm • Weekend Classes Every Fri. & Sat. night classes before dancing, except July 9th

US DANCE CLUB • 860-529-2888 38 New Britain Avenue, Rocky Hill Email: usdc@um.att.com Web Site: Http://usdance.tripod.com

as they create their own family to be like God’s.”

Another tradition is the blessing of the “arras” or coins. Gold or silver coins are placed in the bride and groom’s hands and blessed by the priest to represent financial health for the couple within the marriage. And no MexicanAmcerican reception could be complete without a mariachi. For Pineda, mariachis and the lazo are her favorites.

“I can’t wait to get married and have a mariachi perform at my wedding,” Pineda said. “I really do like the lazo. I like that the whole family is involved. It’s usually a way of involving special people in your life in your wedding ceremony. That part is really family-oriented and really special because ... it’s their way of saying we believe in this and want you to succeed and we’re going on this journey with you.”

For Polish brides, tradition says that to ensure good luck, couples should get married only in the months that, in the Polish language, have the letter “R” in it, including March, June, August, September, October and December.

But for former Bristol resident Gosia Czeladko, the best Polish wedding traditions are grounded in family. She and her husband Greg were married in Bialystok, Poland, before moving to Bristol.

In Polish weddings, the groom goes to the bride’s house to bring her to the wedding and asks the parents for their blessing.

Rachel Pineda

The traditional Mexican lazo is placed over the the bride and groom.

“This is a very important and crucial part. The parents will bless the bride and groom with holy water and pray for them,” Czeladko said. “After the church ceremony, guests throw coins and rice at the couple as they leave church to wish them to never go hungry and to never be short of money.”

At the reception hall, the couple is greeted by both sets of parents.

Before they enter the hall, they are given bread, salt and vodka.

“Salt represents the power of healing and cleansing, bread represents they will never get hungry and vodka represents fortitude,” according to Czeladko. “After they drink the vodka, they throw

the glass behind them. Make sure the glass breaks when you throw it behind yourself for good luck. Then the groom picks up bride and carries her into the reception.”

At midnight the groom takes off his bow tie and throws it out to the single male guests. Whoever catches it keeps it. The bride then throws her veil, rather than her bouquet, to all the single ladies.

Whoever catches the items are a new couple. The most poignant time of her wedding was when her new in-laws addressed her as “daughter” for the first time.

“I think that was the most significant. Basically parents never See BLESS, Page 8

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

WEDDING GUIDE

Friday, June 24, 2011 | 5

26 South Center St. Southington (860) 628-8509 www.testas.net

Absolutely Gorgeous!

Newly Designed Interior & Exterior!

Now - Two Banquet Rooms and Private Bridal Suite

Wedding Package Special Cocktail Social Hour

Entrees:

• First hour of top shelf open bar accompanied with all of the following Hour D'oeuvres: • Assorted cheese table with pepperoni, crackers and vegetable platter with dip

Choice of: • Prime Rib of Beef • Baked Stuffed Shrimp • Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast * All entrees are served with vegetable, potato, bread and butter.

Choose any three Hour D'oeuvres: • BBQ and hot buffalo wings • Scallops-n-Bacon • Escargot • Franks-n-blankets • Crab Bites • Fried Scallops Also Includes: • Champagne Toast (Asti Spumanti)

Dessert • Ice Cream puff topped with chocolate syrup, coffee, tea and decaffeinated coffee.

Bar 4 hours of top shelf open bar

Complete Package Incl.

DJ, Cake & Flowers

First Course

www.testas.net * Must be booked by 9/30/11 • Certain restrictions apply

(served individually) • Tossed garden salad topped with olives, tomato, onion, cucumber, croutons, and House dressing.

Limited time offer!

All of this for just

$

59

95 * pp

Tax and service charge is not included in these prices!!

Accommodations 30 - 350 Guests

Bridal Shower Packages

1995

$ starting at

pp

Rehearsal Dinners $

1795 pp

To view other packages go to our website www.testas.net

Please Call Al or Enzo to Schedule Your Appointment

26 South Center St., Southington • (860) 628-8509

Specializing In Anniversaries • Corporate Events • Birthday Parties • Catering

018281

6 | Friday, June 24, 2011

WEDDING GUIDE

Children in a wedding means no kidding around the tots in line. For instance, Prince Henry reportedly delighted little Eliza Lopes with a pink “wiggly worm” so she wouldn’t be frightened by the crowds. Said wiggly worm actually made it into the official group bridal photo, being clutched

by Miss Lopes.

Couples worrying about all the little details of their own weddings may not want to fret about kiddie meltdowns or the bloopers that can occur when kids act like kids. Each child’s personal maturity level should be considered before enlisting their help. There are some other strategies to use as well.

■ Young children serving as flower girls or ring bearers should be able to walk down the aisle without coaxing.

If they cannot handle this task, then they should not be asked to take part in the wedding.

■ Should children prove competent to walk down the aisle unattended, couples can have them then make their way to the seats next to their parents, rather than awk-

wardly standing with the rest of the bridal party for the ceremony.

■ An minimum age requirement for wedding participants might be a good idea. A child age 5 or up may be able to appreciate the importance of the event.

■ Consult with the pastor or officiant of the ceremony. The location may have rules governing children in the ceremony.

■ All people who have participated in the ceremony will be invited to the reception. If couples decide to have a kids-free party, then reconsider children in the ceremony.

■ Think about another role for a young child that will not disrupt the proceedings. Perhaps he or she can help hand out birdseed or small bottles of bubbles to use when the couple has finished their vows. Or give children disposable cameras and allow them to capture a kids’-eye view of the wedding.

Couples who choose to have children participate in the ceremony have to realize that there is the potential for slip-ups. Keeping an open mind and some patience can make for some memorable moments and a little humor as well.

Flavorful wedding cakes ASSOCIATED PRESS

A tiered wedding cake is often a fitting conclusion to a wedding reception. Today’s brides and grooms are experimenting with cake flavors and designs so their cake is a unique representation of their persona as a couple.

It’s no longer necessary to stick with a white cake with buttercream frosting for your wedding day. Think about exploring other flavor and filling combinations that will tempt the guests’ taste buds. For those who can’t settle on just one flavor, how about having a different flavor for each layer?

Couples getting married in the fall may want to think about a spice cake that evokes the feelings of sipping a mug of spiced cider.

Cream cheese frosting is often a pairing with spice cake, or think about a layer of caramel that will make it taste like you’re enjoying a candied Halloween apple.

A hummingbird cake may fit the bill for a spring wedding. This is made with mashed bananas, pineapples and chopped pecans.

This cake is perfect when paired with cream cheese frosting.

Yellow or white cake are universal favorites for weddings. Some pizzazz can be added through the use of creative fillings. Consider something citrusy and summery for a summer wedding. Raspberry preserves or lemon curd are tart

003456

A wedding is a joyous event that couples want to share with as many people as possible. Couples commonly ask family and friends to take part in the ceremony as ushers, bridesmaids or readers. Before enlisting the help of a child to fill such roles, couples should carefully consider whether a youngster is capable of participating in the wedding ceremony or if he or she may not be up to the task.

Millions of people tuned into the British Royal wedding in April.

Among the participants were six young children. The Hon. Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Miss Eliza Lopes, Miss Grace van Cutsem, Lady Louise Windsor, Master Tom Pettifer, and Master William Lowther-Pinkerton were bridesmaids and pages in attendance. The children were as young as three years old and as old as 10. Although the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were confident enough in the kids’ maturity to include them, reportedly some measures were taken to keep

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

The Perfect Place For Your Special Day

66 CENTRAL AVE., WOLCOTT • www.LilyLakeInn.com

Call (203) 879-7000

to speak to an event coordinator or schedule a viewing

Wedding cakes can be an array of shapes, sizes and flavors.

AP

and sweet. For a tropical flair, mangoes or passion fruit can be mixed with touches of coconut.

A winter wedding can be accented with rich flavors, like a decadent chocolate cake filled with chocolate ganache and black cherries -- in a black forest style. Those toasting to the good life may want an almond cake enhanced with some fine liqueur and simple chocolate buttercream.

Couples should sit down with their baker and sample a number of flavor combinations to determine a recipe that works for them.

Pastry companies also may be able to develop a cake that encompasses a couple’s favorite flavors or symbolizes a special moment in their lives. A Boston Cream Pie-inspired cake may liven up the wedding of a couple who became engaged in Boston.

Maybe a cannoli cream filled cake will usher in memories of a trip to Italy. Kids at heart can enjoy candy confection cakes filled with gooey chocolate, nuts and marshmallows.

Whatever the case, couples can use their cake as a centerpiece that wows the senses of taste as well as vision. Consider displaying this culinary masterpiece on a table with the seating cards placed around it so that it can be enjoyed the entire night.

WEDDING GUIDE

New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

Friday, June 24, 2011 | 7

What to look for in a reception venue

Engaged couples must make assorted important decisions with regards to their wedding day. For some, the process of planning a wedding can be overwhelming, while others revel in each and every decision.

Among the many decisions couples must make is which venue to use for their reception. The wedding reception venue is where most of the day will be spent, and where the majority of the people will do their mingling. When looking for a wedding venue, there are a number factors to take into consideration.

venue. Couples who have a specific venue in mind might want to ask about the venue’s availability before settling on a wedding date.

When seeking out a reception venue, ask if the venue has any other events scheduled for that day. Some couples prefer to have the facility all to themselves and their guests.

The Location

The facility’s location should be a priority. Couples won’t want their guests to have to drive too far from the wedding ceremony to the reception venue or from the reception venue back to the hotel. Since many wedding guests come from out of town, they likely won’t know the area well

and could get lost if the facility hourly rate or if the venue can is too far away from their hotel. simply be rented for as long as the Keep things simple by finding a party keeps going. reception venue that’s close to the hotel or hotels where guests will The Price be staying.

Many facilities offer a flat rate to rent the venue. When disThe Hours cussing the rate, be sure to ask Couples who want their recep- what’s included. Will food, flowtions to last into the wee hours ers, venue decor, and even staff should inquire about the facility’s tips be included in the rental fee? hourly rate. A typical reception If not, is there room for negolasts five or six hours. If couples tiation? When facilities expand want to go beyond that, they the services they include in their might have to pay an hourly rate. rental fee, that can save couples Ask if the facility charges an substantial amounts of money.

The Accommodations

Wedding and Banquet Facility

018638

A full service Fine Catering facility specializing in Wedding Receptions, Family, Social and Corporate events with packages to fit any budget!

1146 Spindle Hill Rd., Wolcott, CT 06716

203-879-4050

krystalgardenscatering@yahoo.com

The Masterpiece Collection

CE CH OI

ER S’

CH OI

CE

ER S’ RE AD CE CH OI

BEST

OF

ER S’ RE AD

ER S’

CH OI

CE

RE AD

ER S’

CE

ER S’

CH OI

Hours: Mon - Fri 9:30-5:30 Sat 9:30-4:30

CH OI

CE

Radner 1/3 ct wt

Making weddings special since 1850

New Britain’s Leading Jeweler...

Polumbo’s Jewelers

018146

1/5 ct wt

RE AD

RE AD

.06 ct wt

Triumph

RE AD

.11 ct wt

3/4 ct wt

CE

CE

Tyson

Jevison

Turo

CH OI

CH OI

Couples may choose the date of their wedding based on the availability of a church they attend or a specific wedding officiant they want to perform their ceremony.

Once that date has been chosen, it’s time to look for a reception

14K GOLD & DIAMONDS

ER S’

ER S’

The Date

Find Your Perfect Wedding Ring

RE AD

RE AD

The facility itself should be able to accommodate the wedding size. Some weddings are grandiose events with large guests lists, while others are more understated and intimate, with only a small number of family and friends in attendance. Couples should know which type of wedding they will be having, and should have at least an estimate figure in mind of the number of guests before visiting any facilities. Once that estimate has been made, look for a facility that can comfortably accommodate that number of people, and ideally find one that It’s important to consider as many details as possible when choosing a has a done so in the past. Couples reception venue. won’t want a facility where everyone is crammed together, nor will they want one where a relatively small number of guests are in a large ballroom with lots of empty space.

More minor details regarding the facility must also be considered. Ask if the facility is handicapped accessible. If the Grecian Corbin wedding is in the warmer months, make sure the venue is air conditioned. Since most weddings have a break in between the ceremony and the reception, ask if the facility has a room in which the bride and groom can freshen up before Aurora Alymen the reception begins.

438 East Street New Britain, CT 860-223-8886

WEDDING GUIDE

8 | Friday, June 24, 2011

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Mexican, Polish and Italian customs offer a colorful tapestry of traditions passed away when I was little bless you until there’s a reason. I and this is a way of still keeping felt like we are a family now.” her close and having part of her But if you are here with me on marrying someone my wedding day.” who doesn’t share The Mass will in your culture, include Italian some comproreadings and Italian mising is needed. songs. At the recepNew Britain native tion, Criniti looks Alissa Criniti said forward to dancing her upcoming wedthe Tarantella. For ding at St. Ann’s the father-daughChurch in New ter dance, they will Britain will have a play “Piccolo Fiore” mix of Italian and or “Little Flower”.

American customs.

While in Italian Chris Richie| Staff tradition, the bride “I’m doing as much as I can in Italian “bombonier.” does not walk Italian but still am down the isle with mindful of respecting the fact that her father, Criniti is choosing to my fiancé, Nick Woods, is Irish,” adopt the American custom. “I Criniti said. “My gradmother wanted my dad to walk me down Continued from Page 4

PORTRAIT CAKES Available

Cakes

COOKIE & PASTRY TRAYS Available

10

%

OFF Wedding Cake with this ad

84 Farmington Ave., Bristol • 589-8800

040126

Harvest Bakery INC.

FREE Professional Fittings 21 Whiting St., Plainville

Unique PHOTO FUN For Everyone!

(860) 747-9500 • M-Sat 10-5:30 www.ireneslingerie.com

AP

Mariachi bands are a tradition at Mexican wedding celebrations.

significant part of the whole pro- altar and making a promise to be cess is presenting yourself with with that person through thick another person in front of God’s and thin,” Pineda said.

When You Think Of Wedding Cakes think of Bolo!

Call us for a free consultation!

LINGERIE SHOP ❤ BRAS - SHORT, LONG, 3/4 & STRAPLESS ❤ BUSTIERES ❤ SEXY LINGERIE ❤ PEIGNOR SETS ❤ MASTECTOMY ❤ HOSIERY The ultimate ❤ PLUS in intimates SIZES

013900

Award Winning Wedding and Bridal Shower

the isle. That was an important difference to me,” she said.

Bombonieris, or party favors, are also an Italian tradition making an appearance at her reception.

Small bags of sugared almonds usually wrapped in white satin or tulle are given out and represent health, wealth, happiness, fertility and longevity. Whatever the particular custom, all three of these women agree that what matters most is the commitment the couple is making.

“What it really boils down to I really think that the most

013597

WEDDING CAKES & SPECIAL OCCASION CAKES 33 Whiting Street, Plainville, CT 06062 860.410.4292 • www.bolobakery.com

Tunxis Plantation Country Club

008305

Premium Indoor & Outdoor Banquet Facilities in the Picturesque Farmington Valley

UNLIMITED

for Five Hours Over 300,000 backgrounds to choose from!

Our photo booth rental package includes: • • • • •

Unlimited photosticker for 5 hours Staff assistance on site CD with all of the photos Album of all guest photos Delivery, setup and removal

Make your wedding a fun and memorable one!

Farmington, CT • (917) 609-8603 • www.ohcapturethis.com

Your Wedding is Our Priority 87 Town Farm Road, Farmington

Tunxisbanquets.com

(860) 678-9523 ext. 2

New Britain Herald| The Bristol Press

WEDDING GUIDE

Friday, June 24, 2011 | 9

Toast of the town

The Holy Matrimony Candle is a truly unique and memorable gift for weddings, showers and anniversaries.

Come in and see our full selection of wedding candles, bridal program covers, Bibles, crosses, cards and many gift items from all over the world.

PATRICK BAKER AND SONS, INC. 1650 West Street • Southington

• From I-84 West - Exit 31, West Street - Take right at end of exit.

Store 11⁄2 miles up on left side of road.

• From I-84 East - Exit 31 West Street - Take left at end of exit.

Store is 11⁄2 miles from left side of road.

Tel. 860-628-5566 Monday - Friday: 9:30 - 5:30, Saturday: 10:00 - 3:00

Artificial Flower Shop

246 LAKE AVE., BRISTOL

860-582-0516

CUSTOM BOUQUETS

A successful wedding toast should be brief, genuine and appropriate for guests of all ages.

don’t stress about giving the per- genuine and stays appropriate, it’s fect toast. If the toast comes off as a good toast.

Weddings and Special Occasions Sit-down, Buffet or Stations Style Receptions

Complete Packages starting at $44

Packages includes: Hors D’oeuvres, Toast, Five Hour Open Bar We offer special pricing during selected times of the day and off season months.

Our Consultants and Chefs will help make your event a memorable one.

Visit Our Bridal Display

Celebrating 66 Years In Business

141 New London Turnpike Glastonbury, Connecticut • (860)659-2656 www.thegallery141.com

Your Bridal Headquarters . . . . save time by doing all your shopping where you can find everything you need! Specials At Over 30 Stores!!

HEALTH & BEAUTY APPAREL

• • • • • •

Sally’s Beauty Supply Family Haircut GNC Vitamin Planet Fitness Fancy Nails Beltone

FOOD

• Price Chopper • Sun Fat Chinese Restaurant • Frank’s Restaurant • Pizza Hut • Subway • Boston Market

SPECIALTY

• Fashion Bug STORES • Michael’s Jewelers • Kathy’s • Feet First/ Hallmark Stride Rite Shoes • The U.P.S. • Oscar’s Tuxedo Store • Olympia Sports • Blockbuster • Once Upon A Child Video • Sleepy’s • Radio FINANCIAL Shack • Edward Jones • AT&T • CitiFinancial • Game Stop • H&R Block

• Discount Tobacco

Bristol Commons & The Annex 99 Farmington Avenue • Route 6 • Bristol

007833

A MOST EXTRAORDINARY WEDDING GIFT

from alcohol before their toasts to avoid embarrassing themselves and the bride and groom. If you’re especially nervous, maybe a drink can help calm your nerves. But if you’re going to drink before the toast, be sure to drink only in moderation.

■ Practice beforehand. Very few people can survive “winging” a wedding toast. Practice the toast beforehand so you’re comfortable with what you’re going to say before the moment arrives.

■ Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Weddings are typically laid back and fun affairs, so

013062

■ Keep the toast appropriate.

Many adults who have been to a wedding or two in their day have a story about a wedding toast gone awry. While these stories are humorous, no best man or maid of honor wants to have similar stories told about his or her toasts.

Make the toast appropriate, keeping in mind there might be some younger guests in attendance. In addition, avoid references to past relationships. Such references are awkward and uncomfortable.

■ Don’t make it an “inside” joke.

Maids of honor or best men are typically close friends or siblings of the bride and groom. Such a close relationship makes it easy to tell an inside joke only a few guests will understand. Avoid such inside jokes, as one of the goals of the toast should be to illustrate your love and appreciation of the bride or groom in a way all guests can understand.

■ Make it personal. A personal anecdote is a nice touch. Such anecdotes can be about anything, whether it’s the first time you met your friend’s now-spouse or, if you’re not related to the bride or groom, how you met.

■ Steer clear of the bar before the toast. Many a well-intentioned wedding toast has gone horribly wrong thanks to alcohol. Maids of honor and best men should abstain

013901

Wedding days are typically steeped in tradition. Whether it’s the hours before the wedding or the bride’s attire or the first dance, it seems no aspect of a couple’s big day isn’t accompanied by some ages-old tradition.

One of the more enjoyable wedding day traditions is the toast.

Once the reception has begun, the maid of honor and the best man are trusted to toast the new bride and groom. Such toasts are typically heartfelt and humorous, but there are also a few guidelines to follow to ensure the toast is memorable for all the right reasons.

■ Stand up! Stand up when delivering a wedding toast. Sitting down won’t command the guests’ attention, and your voice likely won’t carry as well if you’re sitting down.

■ Don’t go too long. A good wedding toast shouldn’t stretch beyond five minutes. Longwinded toasts could come off as rambling and incoherent, and the guests will likely tune out if the toast goes longer than five minutes.

■ Introduce yourself. Just because you’re a maid of honor or a best man doesn’t mean all of the guests know your relationship with the bride or groom. Make it brief, but provide an explanation of your relationship.

10 | Friday, June 24, 2011

WEDDING GUIDE

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

Gowns that changed fashion: Kate’s will probably have clout beyond next-day knockoff meant you could afford to get the dress dirty, but brides didn’t run out and get one just for this occasion until Victoria.

Jacqueline Kennedy. Kennedy “was a major fashion influence her whole life,” so Ann Lowe’s dramatic portrait-neck gown with an exaggerated hourglass shape, and pleating details fashioned into flowers and a tiered hemline suited her, says Miller.

The bit of skin showing at the neckline also fit the image of the socialite marrying a dashing young senator, ushering in a new guard.

But the dress might have been “too couture” and not princess-y enough for the masses, making it less influential at the time, Martini Bratten says, although

Gown by Oleg Cassini exclusively for David’s Bridal.

brides’ decisions “are often less trend-driven, and more personally focused on how they want to look and feel on their wedding day.”

Still, a princess holds particular sway because of the fairy-tale aspect of weddings.

“A royal element makes it more dreamlike, and a wedding day is your time to look like a princess,” says Kimberly Lee Minor, chief fashion strategist of the bridal label Priscilla

of Boston, which made gowns for the daughters of Presidents Johnson and Nixon.

Some famous brides who set fashion trends: Queen Victoria. This was the game-changer _ quite the feat in 1840. Until then, white hadn’t been THE color of wedding dresses, explains Miller. Women wore their best dress, no matter the hue.

White was sometimes seen as a sign of affluence because it

Premier Portraits photographs weddings in a manner and style that captures the events of the entire day, showing people in a relaxed and happy environment.

We offer affordable packages with excellent quality. Many of our packages include a DVD slideshow and a proof of your photos.

We also create beautiful albums.

Over 30 years of Wedding Photography and Video experience.

she sees hints of this dress on the runways now.

Grace Kelly. Kelly’s gown, made by costumer Helen Rose and the wardrobe department of MGM, was “truly designed

by Hollywood,” says Martini Bratten.

There was a high neckline, a cinched waist and a big ballskirt — all befitting a new royal. But the collar, sleeves and overlay were lace, so there was still a glimpse at the more revealing sweetheart bodice, more in line with what one would expect from a movie star.

“The silhouette was so classic and beautiful,” observes Marchesa’s Chapman. “It’s just as breathtaking today as it was over 50 years ago.”

Moments

remembered with flowers!

Marzi Florist,

260 East St. (Route 10) Cristal Commons Plainville, CT 06062 www.premierportraits.net 860.410.4303

Inc.

Still serving all your flower needs since 1932 008336

NEW YORK (AP) _ When Kate Middleton walks down the aisle later this month to marry Prince William, the would-be brides watching out there will almost certainly home in on her dress.

Bridal industry insiders expect her gown to be copied many times over as soon as the public gets its first glimpse.

Some wedding dresses leave a legacy beyond the next-day knockoffs: Princess Diana’s grand gown, Grace Kelly’s glamorous one, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s simple tank _ and especially Queen Victoria’s white ball gown _ changed the way brides dressed for years to come.

Middleton’s is likely to fall into that category.

“Kate’s dress will be an important dress, one that will be talked about for the rest of time,” says Millie Martini Bratten, editorin-chief of Brides magazine.

Diana’s dress helped define the grandeur of fashion in the early 1980s, Martini Bratten says, but Middleton’s might be even more influential because women relate to her as a 29-year-old with a developed sense of style, compared with the 19-year-old Diana, whose gown likely was chosen by committee.

Also, pictures of Middleton’s gown will immediately be posted online for discussion and critique, notes Darcy Miller, editor in chief of Martha Stewart Weddings. “It’s amazing how much brides are influenced by what other people wear, especially royals, celebrities, presidents’ daughters. Before Chelsea Clinton’s wedding was over, every bride saw that Vera Wang dress and wanted some version of it,” Miller says.

Celebrity red-carpet looks are adapted for the aisle, says Marchesa co-founder and designer Georgina Chapman, but many women have been thinking about their fantasy gowns for a long time and don’t turn on a dime. “ Wedding gowns are unlike any other dresses,” she says, because

33 Fern Street, New Britain, CT 06053

860-229-1331 Thank You Herald readers for voting Marzi Florist 2010 Readers' Choice Best Florist of New Britain

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

WEDDING GUIDE

Friday, June 24, 2011 | 11

Wedding Directory 2011 APPAREL Irene’s Corset

21 Whiting Street Plainville, CT 06062 860-747-9500 www.ireneslingerie.com

BANQUETS AND CATERING Belle Terrace at Avon Old Farms

1 Nod Road Avon, CT 06001 860-404-5051 www.avonbelleterrace.com

Bridal One-Stop Shopping

Mahan's Lakeview & Fine Catering

15 Grilley Rd. Wolcott, CT 203-879-9363 www.mahanscatering.com

Manor Inn Restaurant 1636 Meriden Waterbury Tpke.

P.O. Box 1636.

Milldale (Southington) CT 06467 860-628-9877 manorinnrestaurant.com

Testa's Banquet Facility

Bristol Commons & The Annex 99 Farmington Ave. Rt 6, Bristol

26 South Center St Southington, Ct 860-628-8509 www.testas.net

The Cornucopia Banqueting Hall

Tunxis Plantation Country Club

371 Pinewoods Road Rt. 8, Torrington 489-5446 • 1-800-3 TO B WED www.cornucopiabanqueting.com

The Gallery

141 New London Turnpike Glastonbury, CT 06033 860-659-2656 thegallery141@aol.com

87 Town Farm Rd. Farmington, Ct 860-678-9523 www.tunxisbanquets.com

Whinstone Tavern

45 Hartford Road New Britain, CT 860-827-0022 www.whinstonetavern.com

CAKES & FAVORS Bolo Bakery 32 Whiting St. 860-410-4292 www.bolobakery.com

Harvest Bakery

380 Main Street Kensington, CT 06037 860-829-7766 Fax: 860-829-1965 www.jeskescatering.com jeskescatering@yahoo.com

DANCE LESSONS U.S. Dance Club 38 New Britain Avenue Rocky Hill, CT 860-529-2888 Http//usdance.tripod.com usdc@um.att.com

FLORAL DESIGN Marzi Florist 33 Fern Street New Britain Connecticut 860-229-1331 www.marziflorist.com

GIFTS Patrick Baker & Sons, Inc.

1650 West Street Southington, CT 06489 860-628-5566

GOWNS Argelia Novias Bridal

602 New Park Avenue West Hartford, CT www.argelianoviasbridal.com 860-232-4780

HAIR SALON Creations Hair Design

84 Farmington Ave. Bristol, CT 860-589-8000 www.theharvestbakery.com 018339

CATERING Jeske’s Catering, LLC

1 Webster Square Road Berlin, CT 860-828-8066

JEWELRY Polumbo’s Jewelers 438 Main Street New Britain, CT 860-223-8886

J. P. Jewelers

47 Whiting Street Plainville, CT 860-747-6353 www.jpjewelers.com

Shannon's Diamonds and Fine Jewelry, Inc. 74 Farmington Avenue Bristol, CT 06010 860-582-8858

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Thomas F. Carey

860-539-6355 Realtor/Justice of the Peace tomc19@comcast.net

PHOTOGRAPHY Oh Capture This Farmington, CT 917-609-8603 www.ohcapturethis.com

Premiere Portrait

260 East St. Plainville, CT 860-410-4303 www.premiereportraits.net

Andre Jean Francois Photography 85 East St. Norwalk, CT 06851 203-219-3316 info@jeanfrancoisphotography. com www.Jeanfrancoisphotography .com Facebook: http//www.facebook.com/ pages/Jean-FrancoisPhotography/ 156409457718308

RECEPTION & BANQUET Krystal Gardens

1146 Spindel Hill Rd. Wolcott, CT (203) 879-4050 www.krystalgardenscatering.com

TO BE INCLUDED in this Directory in the future PLEASE CALL 860-225-4601 ext. 281 ask for Gary Curran, Manager

The Lily Lake Inn

66 Central Ave. Wolcott, CT 06717 203-879-7000 www.LilyLakeInn.com

RENTALS Party Plus/ Taylor Rental Center 346 East Street Plainville, CT 06062 860-747-6073 www.taylor-rentals.com

TRAVEL Sanditz American Expert Travel

5 Broad Street Bristol, CT 860-582-5668 1brown@sanditztravel.com Destination, Wedding Specials and Bridal Registry

Scully Travel

580 Wolcott Rd. Wolcott, CT 203-879-2593 scullytravel@aol.com

TRANSPORT Bill’s Limousine, LLC

Southington, CT 860-426-1793 www.billslimousine.com

Valley Cab Co. 24 Hour Service 860-793-0300

Wollenberg's/ TLC Limousine

436 Main St. Terryville, CT 860-585-LIMO (5466) www.tlclimousine.net

12 | Friday, June 24, 2011

WEDDING GUIDE

New Britain Herald | The Bristol Press

15 Grilley Road • Wolcott, CT 06716 • 203-879-9363

This fabulous garden has been designed with a spectacular 25’ gazebo, ideal for your wedding ceremony.

The New at Lakeview Now you can choose between a Garden Ceremony or Chapel Ceremony. The chapel is perfect for Winter Weddings or days with inclement weather. Seating capacity for up to 300 guests.

The Beautiful Lakeview Banquet Facility featuring three ďŹ replaces.

Hawaii

TÄÄ@\ÇvÄâå|äx

The Lakeview Wedding Package includes all of the following:

HAWAII

FREE FABULOUS OR FABULOUS CARIBBEAN HONEYMOON

Book your Winter Wedding Complete Wedding Package for any available date in December through March and Mahan’s Lakeview will include a FREE 8 day Honeymoon Package!

Choose from A Royal Caribbean Cruise, Hawaiian Honeymoon in Honolulu, Negril Jamaica, Akumal Mexico, or Montego Bay Jamaica.

Each package includes airfare and hotel.

Check us out on the web at: www.mahanscatering.com

009006

� A Spectacular New 8-passenger white Super-Stretch Limo to Get You to Your Special Day � Your Dream Celebration Hosted by our own High Energy DJs with our “In the Ceiling� Sound System � The Wedding Cake of Your Dreams Designed by You and Our Own Pastry Chef � Fabulous Six Course Sit Down Dinner, Buffet, or Station Menu � 5 to 5 1/2 hour Full Premium Brand Top Shelf Open Bar � Beautifully Designed Table Centerpieces 32� High Vases Topped with Floral Arrangements � A Cocktail Party Both in the Ballroom for Your Guests and in the Garden or “High Point Chapel� for Your Wedding Party and Family � Assortment of Hot Hors ‘Doeuvres Passed Black Glove, Butler Style � International Cheese, Fruit &Vegetable Displays � Professional Wedding Consultants to Assist You in Planning Your Perfect Day � Please inquire about free shuttle service to and from the Courtyard by Marriott provided by Mahan’s Lakeview and Black Swan Limousine