Marriage & Bliss Issue 10

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What’s inside 06 14 17

Preparing for Twins Twice the trouble, Twice the Joy Blind Love Spotlight Bakery Treatz

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The Mortgage Downpayment

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Bridal Beauty Timeline

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The Significance of the Groom’s Cake

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Your Wedding Planning Countdown

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Wedding Day Timeline

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Strange Wedding Practices Toe Rings in India

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Trinidad & Tobago Wedding Venues Listing

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Wedding Budget Worksheet

Features

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Publisher’s Note

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The Icing on the Cake

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On the Cover

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Move Review Baggage Claim

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Wedding Vendors Directory

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Fun Page

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MARRIAGE & CONTRIBUTORS Publisher

Amber Media Productions

Creative Directors Kenroy Ambris Carla Mendez-Ambris

Design Layout Rajesh Sinanan

Advertising Sales Kenroy Ambris

Photography

Publisher From the

The idea was quite simply: Produce a magazine to showcase local brides and grooms; no models, no choreographed photo shoots, just everyday people and their guests enjoying that special day!

Five years and ten issues later, with your help, the magazine has blossomed and developed into a success. Now we can proudly say Marriage & Bliss has become the staple for engaged and newlywed couples. We are surely proud of our accomplishments.

Contributing Writers

So as the story continues, in this issue we include articles on the history of the groom’s cake; we look at preparing for, not just one, Carla Mendez-Ambris but for twins and we feature a touching love Creative Director story of a visually impaired husband and wife. We also have for you a wedding budget worksheet, a wedding timeline – two ‘must haves’ for wedding planners; and for the first time, we have compiled a comprehensive list of wedding venues throughout the country.

Marriage & Bliss is published twice a year by Amber Media Productions.

Before ending I must thank our supportive advertisers, particularly Toyota (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited and COLFIRE, who have been with us from inception.

You are the reason we can distribute Marriage & Bliss FREE of charge to the public. Thanks also to the entire team who make the magazine possible and to the team couples at the Catholic Engaged Encounter Programme.

Kenroy Ambris

Contributing Photographers

Curtis Chase Carla Mendez-Ambris Sarah Sookraj Michael Mondezie Petrina Copeland Quincy Marshall Essiba Small

It is mostly distributed FREE of charge to engaged couples and newlyweds. It is also sold at selected bookstores and other outlets. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or whole without consent from the publisher.

The online edition of Marriage & Bliss can be read at www.ambermediatt.com/marriage-and-bliss

Most of all, a very special Thank You to you, our readers, who continue to give us positive feedback and shower us with love and support.

Enjoy Issue 10 and have a blessed 2014.

Be inspired.

Marriage & Bliss – The Magazine Marriage and Bliss Magazine For more information on advertising or distribution please contact: AMBER MEDIA PRODUCTIONS Kenroy: (868) 750-2550 or (868) 359-5448 Carla: (868) 748-0809 or (868) 359-5452 Website: www.ambermediatt.com Email: info@ambermediatt.com

Publisher, Amber Media Productions

AMBER MEDIA PRODUCTIONS would like to thank you our brides and grooms for the opportunity to be your wedding photographer.

These are the lucky couples featured in this Issue of Marriage & Bliss.

Winette & Wendyl Daniel Krystiel & Richard Lucas Rachel & Michael Caballero Sherelle & Titus Garcia Janice & Ronnie Gallaway

Tynessa & Nkosi Felix Afiya & Ekene Osunwoke Madilyn & Kwasi Huggins Joanne & Edward McKie Melissa & Allister Phillip Tricia & Garvin James Abbiegail & Kenneth Nanan Miranda & Gilbert Neptune Riona & Rajesh Kungebeharry Candice & Kerwin Thomas Kristen & Kevin Williams (Cover)

Preparing for Twins , e l b u o r t e th e c i w joy T e h t e Twic

By Quincy Marshall

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t a routine ultrasound scan, not only did my wife and I find out that she was pregnant for the first time but that we were having twins! TWINS!!! Thoughts of all the wonders that twins symbolize flooded both our hearts, as well as the joy of being first time parents. However, within moments of receiving the big news we began contemplating the preparation now required.

If you have learnt that you are expecting twin or multiple births then the following are some things to keep in mind: When to start preparing Twin or multiple pregnancies are high-risk for both babies and mother. Doctors may order mothers to stay in bed for prolonged periods of time. This can leave detailed arrangements in the hands of one person, so it is best to Continues on Page 8

Continued from Page 6

commence preparations immediately.

Unlike single babies, twins or multiples often arrive early, therefore, you will also not have nine months within which to prepare.

There is a great possibility that your babies may be delivered by cesarean section. This is often in the best interest of both babies and mother. However, it can mean that mummy will be healing for some time after delivery. This means even earlier planning, as mummy may not be able to be anywhere close to what is demanded of new mothers.

If your twins are joining other small children, incapacity of a mother before and after pregnancy is yet another important factor to be considered.

Naming your babies is also something to start considering. A name will be with you for life and each child’s name is important. This holds true for twins or single births. However, twins will often have their names called together.

One must therefore consider how the names will sound in combination.

Quincy Marshall and his wife, Roxanne, were married in November, 2010. Just over a year later the couple found out they were having twins.

The boys Messiah and Noah were born in July 2012.

What to prepare and how to do it?

1. Where to sleep A bond exists between twins, even those of different sexes. My wife and I have found that our boys like sleeping near each other, often waking up at the same time, even feeding and crying together. So it may prove a disaster for babies and parents to separate them at bedtime.

Sharing a crib allowed us to care for both babies in the same room. It was also one of the few times we did not have the added expense of buying two of something. Having one crib also saved space which seemed to diminish drastically once the babies came home.

Get help from as many people as you can. Family and friends are often in love with twins so some may be willing to help.

As mentioned early, mummy may be incapacitated for some time after birth. This means either you or your helpers will have to do several things at least twice: two baths, two changings, two feedings. These are just a few things that come to mind.

If some family members are unable to help with the babies, they can be asked to help with other parts of your life that will fall by the way side such as housework, car maintenance and repair, shopping even planning a baby shower. Hired help is also an alternative but this must be carefully evaluated.

If you have older children, they can be valuable assistants also.

If you cannot get or hire help, you both will have to learn to tolerate less organization and tidiness in your home, at least in the short term.

Unlike single babies, twins or multiples often arrive early, therefore, you will also not have nine months within 2. What to buy Inevitably you will have to buy which to prepare. two or more of certain things: car seats, high chairs, outfits, toys, several bottles, bibs and blankets. Like the crib, you should only need one ‘double’ stroller and one bathtub.

It is advisable to always buy and store an additional supply of baby wipes, diapers and ointment in another room, even a warm bottle. This helps if only one baby wakes up crying and needs attention. Taking away a crying baby prevents having two crying babies on your hands, especially at night!

3. Help Life truly changes only when your babies leave the hospital.

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Despite all the added preparations that are required with twins or multiples, do not be discouraged. Prepare to enjoy them also.

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Blind love

Unconditional love despite visual challenges

By Michael Mondezie

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T TAKES more than the eyes to see love - and for some eyes might mislead more than lead to love. Just ask Clarence and Mary Ann Patia whose blindness never stopped them from seeing the loving truth in each other.

“My understanding is that its intelligence that will carry a marriage far. You don’t need eyes to see where you’re going as a couple,” Clarence said during a recent chat with Marriage & Bliss.

The couple celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary last November. Clarence, 43, was born with a strain of genetic cataract that has left him completely blind. His wife Mary Ann, 30, has degenerative glaucoma and following a recent retinal surgery has regained some vision in one eye.

They insist that theirs is as “ordinary a marriage” as anyone else’s. One filled with as much lovemaking and arguments as any couple anywhere.

“The thing is Mary and I have become a true team. She understands me a lot better than anyone else. She is very protective of me. If Mary miss me from her sight for two minutes she will find me. That’s the connection we share,” Clarence declared with pride.

And in a blink, Mary blushed at her husband’s words before adding: “I love him so much. I also feel like there is no one else that knows me like he does. In fact I don’t want anyone else to know me like that.”

But within their modesty is the reality of the marriage they have found themselves in.

“My wife is 15 years younger than me

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and she is a little bit inexperienced, but I am able to use my experience to make it a smoother road for both of us and sometimes that means turning a deaf ear to certain things,” said Clarence with a boyish laugh.

Quite the woman of the house Mary Ann, however, tells a different story about her role in the household. “I am

the one that keeps the peace most times, because what he not saying is when he gets deaf he also gets mute. He don’t even want to talk and I am the one that has to go and hug him up and get him to talk and make up because as the old people always say never go to bed angry.”

A master craftsman by trade Clarence leads weekly handicraft classes at the Trinidad & Tobago Blind Welfare Association. It was there that he met a shy and very reserved Mary Ann. After courting a few months Clarence and Mary Ann decided they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

And, despite some protest from family

members about the speed of the decision went ahead with their wedding plans.

“We were planning to have a small thing. The entire family was very excited and I was happy with the arrangements because I never like big celebrations, but it turned out to be a bit bigger than we thought.” Mary Ann recalled her big day much more dreamily than her pragmatic husband. “The ceremony and reception were held under one roof at my parent’s house. We had a really nice ceremony and a good reception. All our family and friends were there and despite their earlier reservations, they completely supported our decision on the day. I really had to fight to hold back the tears.”

But what about children? It’s a bit of a complicated and touchy topic in the Patia household. However, the couple was quite open about the reasons behind their decision to not carry on their lineage. “With our condition it is so risky. There is a lot of discomfort and pain associated with glaucoma and I would never ever want my children to have to go through that,” said a sincere Mary Ann. Clarence, who has two boys from a previous marriage, said he witnessed first-hand the difficulties of having children with eyesight problems. His eldest son has already had corrective eye surgery in both eyes for a cataract condition. He said, however, he understood the strong yearning of the maternal instinct and so left the final decision in the hands of his wife.

Both Clarence and Mary Ann are adamant that their love is not one born out of necessity. They view themselves are two individuals quite capable of existing on their own that have chosen to live together because they love each other, not because they need each other.

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Bakery Treatz – ‘Much more than a bakery’

By Essiba Small

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T’S not just about the wedding cakes at Bakery Treatz.

“We are not motivated by the sale. We are aware of how important our part is in so many different special events: weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, engagements. We do not just make a cake,” Michelle Sohan, managing director told Marriage & Bliss.

Conveniently located at Endeavour Road, Chaguanas, Bakery Treatz is much more than a bakery. Along with customized wedding and birthday cakes, freshlymade hops and a variety of breads, customers can also have a tasty corn soup on Saturdays.

Weddings are special for the bakery since their cakes are so well-subscribed.

Bakery Treatz now boasts an in-house wedding planner, one who is well trained to assist every bride and groom in choos-

ing the right wedding cake, along with a variety of exciting edible tokens like cupcakes, cookies and cake pops to match their wedding theme.

“We have actually done thousands of wedding cakes, all of various sizes, shapes, and colours. And we are proud that we have never had any negative experiences. Sohan added: “We do set-up and sometimes dismantle if necessary, and provide boxes for our cakes, which is another way we show our commitment to great service.”

Engaged couples who want to use the wedding cake service at Bakery Treatz are encouraged to make an appointment for a consultation. You would be invited to go through a catalogue of the bakery’s cakes, discuss the budget you are working with and the decorating theme.

Since Bakery Treatz opened its doors ten years ago, their mission has always been to provide good quality product,

made from the highest quality ingredients, at affordable prices along with exceptional customer service.

“The customer comes first” Sohan said. “That’s why the bakery never uses preservatives or enhancers in their products. Just like its bread mixes, all products from Bakery Treatz are prepared fresh daily.”

In celebration of their 10th anniversary last December, Bakery Treatz had several giveaways and gestures of appreciation for loyal customers including T-shirts, dessert cakes and an iPad mini. As Bakery Treatz makes its way to another ten years, Sohan said they will strive to continually raise the standards of their specialty cakes.

“We do love the element of surprise, so we always look for that something extra that will make our cake unique. We’re proud to have become a leading brand in the bakery industry, and look forward to a super sweet future!”

The importance of

The Mortgage Down Payment

By Petrina Copeland-James, Marketing Administrator, TBLA

$800,000.00 would require a startup cash injection of $80,000.00 to $240,000.00.

he decision to purchase a home is perhaps the single most important investment that an individual makes in his or her lifetime. It should not be taken lightly and as such, it must be carefully planned.

The down payment can affect the entire mortgage process in the following areas:

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The actual mortgage application process requires a full assessment and examination of an individual’s present financial situation as it relates to the repayment of the mortgage loan.

There are a number of components that must be considered when conducting a mortgage assessment.

Some of these components would include the examination of income sustainability; good credit history; updated financial statements; evidence that the property’s rates and taxes are paid up to date; debt service ratio of the potential mortgagor and evidence of a down payment for the purchase of a property.

The down payment represents the initial payment made by the buyer to the seller towards the purchase of a property. It indicates the buyer’s intent and interest to purchase. It is advised that this transaction is facilitated through a Purchase or Sales Agreement. The Purchase or Sales Agreement is a binding legal document that states the conditions required by both parties to close the deal.

The down payment (up-front cash) required for a mortgage transaction can range from 10% to 30%, depending on the policies of the mortgage lending institution. For instance, a property costing

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1. How the Sales or Purchase Agreement is written: Since the Sales or Purchase Agreement includes the down payment made by the potential buyer, the mortgage officer uses this information along with its receipt, as proof that a payment was made; it also guides the institution on the mortgage loan requirement needed to complete the purchase transaction.

2. The mortgage qualification process: A higher down payment translates into a lower mortgage loan requirement.

This places the potential buyer in a beneficial position during the mortgage application process since there is reduced risk to the mortgage lending institution.

This in turn can strengthen the buyer’s mortgage application.

3. Negotiation for attractive rates and conditions: The ability to better negotiate for attractive interest rates or conditions in the mortgage facility can be taken into consideration by the mortgage institution.

4. The mortgage (loan) installment: The monthly mortgage (loan) installment is determined by the loan rate; the duration of the loan; the loan amount to be repaid; income of the mortgagor/s, and the down payment made. The down payment is important since it can affect all of the above factors. A higher down payment can shorten the term of the mortgage, which also affects the total interest paid on the life of the loan.

The down payment plays a key role in the entire mortgage process. It is advisable that a separate savings plan be set up to assist potential homeowners in their determination for home ownership.

The TBLA Down Payment Savings Plan can assist the potential homeowner save towards the cash requirement needed to purchase a home. Start talking to a mortgage officer about your desire to own your home and they can assist you in turning your dream into a reality.

The Trinidad Building and Loan Association (TBLA) has been in existence since 1891, and is the longest standing financial institution in the country. The Association is a Building Society that provides affordable mortgage and credit financing for people to own, renovate or improve on their property.

The ICING on the Cake

More wedding cake photos are available on our Facebook page.

Marriage and Bliss — The Magazine

Kwasi & Madilyn

Melissa & Allister

Abbiegail & Kenneth

Afiya & Ekene

Joanne & Edward

Ronnie & Janice

Krystiel & Richard

On the Cover 22

Marriage

Name: Kristen & Kevin Wedding Date: 24th August 2013 Venue: Nia Valley, Princes Town

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n this romantic comedy, we meet Montana (Paula Patton), a flight attendant who seems to be unlucky in love, as she has not yet found ‘the one’ and seems to be even more unlucky with relationships.

She is constantly under pressure from her mother who thinks that marriage defines a woman. Her mum was married five times before, and to top it off, her younger sister is getting engaged. Now Montana insists that she cannot stay single any longer, as she always experiences the “always a bridesmaid, never a bride” conundrum.

Baggage Claim

With the help of her co-workers and best friends Gail (Jill Scott) and Sam (Adam Brody), she decides to find a date for her sister’s wedding in 30 days, by hooking up with ex-boyfriends and trying to re-kindle the old sparks.

Using their contacts at the airline where she works, they concoct a plan for her to ‘bump’ in to various exes and try to re-ignite the relationships. A rapper, a senator and a wealthy businessman are among the suitors she has to choose from.

While very cliché and almost predictable, the movie does teach a great message, particularly to those who have not yet found love.

Montana’s old high school friend and neighbour try to get her to make sense of her method of trying to find a husband. He tells her about his parents, who were married for 40 years, and how much he admired the love they had for each other. He told her that “the magic isn’t in getting married, it’s in staying married.”

Baggage Claim features a great line-up of actors including Paula Patton, Jill Scott, Adam Brody, Djimon Hounsou, Taye Diggs, Christina Milian, Boris Kodjoe, Tia Mowry-Hardict and La La Anthony to name a few.

Genre: Comedy Rating: PG-13 Release Date: September 27, 2013 Directed by: David E. Talbert Written by: David E. Talbert Marriage

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y t u a e B Bridal TIMELINE

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By Sarah Sookraj

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S SOON AS a woman gets engaged, the wedding planning begins. Many women know exactly what they want and what to do, while others are unsure where to begin, especially when it comes to beauty.

Here is a basic outline of things you brides can do to help prepare yourself for the big day.

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YEAR BEFORE:

• Change diet Some brides want to shed a few pounds before their wedding. It is best to avoid crash diets and eat balanced meals. This includes swapping out high calorie / high carb foods for lean protein, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Exercise Add 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3 days a week.

This will help you to reach those fitness goals and also maintain them well past the day you are married.

MONTHS BEFORE:

• Try new hairstyle This is the time to try a new hair colour or a new haircut. This way there is enough time to decide whether to commit or revert to your previous look.

• Start a skin care routine A good cleanser and moisturizer are all most women need.

Be cautious though, certain techniques can cause temporary scarring, redness and discolouration. These include facial peels, microdermabrasion and laser hair removal/ threading. However, starting these treatments early allows sufficient time for the skin to heal and produce desired results. If you have acne, scarring, discolouration or simply looking to improve the quality and texture of your skin, consult a professional.

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MONTHS BEFORE:

• Set up makeup trial Generally around this time it is advisable that a bride set up a makeup trial. This allows the bride to preview her wedding day look, while providing the artist the information needed to be well prepared for the job.

• Have hair trial Hair trials should be done around this time as well. Be sure to take any pieces such as veils, tiaras etc to the appointment so that the hairdresser can incorporate them in the trial.

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MONTH BEFORE:

• Book appointments Your hairdresser and makeup artist appointments should be booked by this time. If you are styling your own hair and/or doing your own makeup, it’s best to purchase the necessary products early to allow yourself time to practice the look a few times before the big day.

• Get eyebrows done Consider having your eyebrows professionally shaped at this point in case your hairs need to grow and fill out empty spots.

• Do Teeth Whitening You can also start using a teeth whitening toothpaste while cutting back on foods or drinks that can

• Finalize all appointments for hair, makeup and nails.

cause staining like beets, coffee and wine.

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WEEK BEFORE:

• Avoid alcohol, sugary snacks and salty foods as these can cause bloating and water retention.

• Get your eyebrows reshaped/retouched to take care of the minimal regrowth.

• Drink lots of water. Keeping hydrated will make your skin glow as well as lessen water retention and puffiness.

• Do the last of special treatments like facials should be done this week.

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DAY BEFORE:

• Book a massage to help you to relax.

• Pack a bridal emergency kit with a spare lipstick, pressed powder, safety pins and a tampon/pad so you can be prepared for anything.

• Drink lots of water.

• Get adequate sleep. At least 7 hours of sleep is needed to prevent puffiness and dark circles.

• Exfoliate your body using a scrub you are accustomed to, to avoid allergic reactions, paying special attention to dry areas like elbows and feet.

• Get your nails done to minimize chipping or losing a falsie.

WEDDING DAY:

• Eat a good breakfast to prepare yourself for the day ahead.

• Wear a robe or a button down shirt while having makeup and hair done to facilitate easy removal.

• Allow enough time to centre and calm yourself before you head out to marry the man of your dreams!

FIND MY WORK HERE: Facebook: Bella Paraiso Twitter: SarahSookraj Instagram: Sarahsookrajmua Youtube: Sarah Sookraj

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The Significance of

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Groom’s Cake

By Michelle Sohan

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ET’S be honest. The wedding day is all about the bride!!! Sorry guys! And the wedding cake is no exception. So will the groom ever get his say on this special day? Luckily we have just the remedy for that… a groom’s cake.

A groom’s cake is a wedding tradition that was made popular in the south-eastern United States, but is a long-standing custom that has its roots in the Victorian era. During the mid-19th century in England, pieces of the groom’s cake were cut and placed in small boxes, which were then given to unmarried women attending the wedding. The legend follows that the cake was never eaten, but instead placed under the pillow of the single woman that same night, and while she slept she would dream of her future husband.

Previously viewed as an added and unnecessary expense, this once-neglected cake has been making a huge comeback. Intended to be a gift from a bride to her new groom, the groom’s cake is usually dark, often chocolate or liquor-soaked, and designed with a more masculine flair reflecting the groom’s personality, interests, occupation and hobbies. There are no limits to the size, shape, colour or form that these cakes may take on.

The groom’s cake allows the couple to get creative and add some of their quirkiness to the wedding celebration. Usually placed on the same table next to the wedding cake, the stark contrasts of traditional with the unpredictable, becomes a highlight and enduring memory of the wedding day. The groom’s cake is a celebration of the groom, and his personality joining with the beauty of the bride.

A blushing bride should never feel obligated to gift her future

husband with a groom’s cake, but should only do so because she wants to. If you do decide to give a gift of a groom’s cake on the wedding day, taking advantage of this opportunity to get creative with the packaging is an additional way to reflect your bridal style, while honouring him and doing something that will be very much appreciated. Purchasing some mini boxes and printing the story of the legend may be a great idea to incorporate some history into your wedding, create an impressionable memory and to help carry on this endearing tradition.

Michelle Sohan is the Managing Director of Bakery Treatz.

Your Wedding

Planning Countdown

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eddings take a lot of time and effort to plan. If possible, start planning at least one year before your wedding.

Seems extreme, but it is worth it to have your dream wedding come off without any hiccups. While hiring a wedding planner is the preferred option, to those who wish to do it on your own, here is a handy checklist of all your wedding ‘to-dos’.

6-8 months before

Wedding Date: __________________________________

12+ months before

Attend pre-wedding counseling.

Envision your wedding and compile a folder with wedding inspiration and ideas from the Internet and Marriage & Bliss.

Discuss with fiancé and draw up a reasonable budget.

See our Wedding Budget Worksheet on Pages 50-51 Assemble your “planning team.” You may want to consider hiring a wedding consultant, planner or coordinator for advice and assistance.

Pick a wedding date and time. Select several options, then check with your venues, officiant, and important guests before finalizing.

Start planning the guest list.

Look for and book ceremony and reception sites.

See our list of Wedding Venues throughout Trinidad & Tobago on Pages 40-43 Ask friends and relatives to be in the wedding party.

Optional: Have an engagement party.

8-10 months before

Think about, shop for, and order bridal gown.

Decide on reception food.

Decide what type of entertainment you want - a DJ, a live band as well as singer, saxophonist etc.

Think about your floral decor.

Research and book your wedding professionals. Interview vendors: photographers, videographer, reception band or DJ, florist. Contact Amber Media Productions for your Photography & Video Productions (750-2550 or 359-5448) If necessary, research and reserve accommodations for friends and family from overseas.

Organize Bridal Registry.

Contact rental companies if you need to rent anything for ceremony/reception, such as chairs, tables, tent, cutlery.

Book ceremony musicians.

Order bridesmaid dresses.

Start planning honeymoon.

Discuss attendants’ duties with your maid of honour

and bridesmaids.

4-6 months before Apply for a marriage license.

Finalize guest list.

Shop for and order invitations or design them and have them printed.

Shop for wedding rings.

Shop for Groom’s suit or tux as well as groomsmens’ outfits.

Renew or get passports, if necessary.

Envision your wedding cake and research, interview, and book a cake decorator.

3 months before Order wedding cake.

Attend your shower. (It may be earlier, depending

on when hosts decide to have it.)

Hire wedding-day transport: limousine, vintage car etc.

Book your stylist and try out hairstyles.

Book a makeup artist and go for a trial run.

Order wedding favours Finalize readings and music for ceremony

2 months before Send your invitations.

Write your vows.

Purchase gifts for parents, bridal party, and each other.

1 month before Have final gown fitting. Bring your Maid of Honor along to learn how to bustle your dress. Have the dress pressed and bring it home.

Call all bridesmaids. Make sure they have their gowns

ready for the wedding.

Make last-minute adjustments with vendors.

Create a wedding program for the MC and guests.

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2 weeks before

Review final RSVP list and call any guests who have not yet sent a response.

Deliver must-have shot lists to photographer and videographer. Include who should be in formal portraits and determine when portraits will be taken.

Deliver final song list to your DJ or bandleader.

Include special song requests and songs you don’t want played.

1 week before

Give reception site & caterer final guest head count.

Include vendors, such as the photographer or band members, who will expect a meal.

Plan reception seating chart.

Print place and table cards, or finalize list with the calligrapher you have hired to do so.

Call all wedding vendors and confirm arrangements.

Give ceremony and reception site managers a schedule of vendor delivery and setup times, plus contact numbers.

Attend bachelor/ette parties.

Night before Bring unity candle, aisle runner, or other ceremony accessories to the site.

Give your marriage license to your officiant.

Attend rehearsal dinner (if applicable).

Present bridal party with gifts. You’ll want to do this especially if the gifts are accessories to be worn during the wedding.

Wedding Day Give wedding bands to the best man and the maid of honor to hold during the ceremony.

Give best man the officiant’s fee envelope, to be

handed off after the ceremony.

Assign a family member or guest to be the photographer’s

contact so he knows who is who.

Follow our Wedding Day Timeline on Page 32

After wedding Arrange for someone to return any rentals and receive any refundable deposits due Arrange for attendants to take the bride’s gown for cleaning Write and send thank-you notes to gift-bearing guests and vendors who were especially helpful.

2-3 days before

Groom: Get your hair trimmed, Go for final fitting and pick up your formalwear. Ask the best man to make sure all groomsmen attend fittings and pick up their outfits.

Bride: If you need to, have your gown pressed or steamed.

Determine wedding-party positions during ceremony and the order of the party in the processional and recessional.

Hand off place cards, table cards, menus, favors, and any other items for setting the tables to the event coordinator or decorator.

Reconfirm final details with all vendors. Discuss any necessary last-minute substitutions.

Call the transport company to confirm pickup times and locations. Give necessary directions.

Arrange for family members and persons in the bridal party without cars to be picked up.

Ask friends, attendants, or relatives to help.

Rehearse ceremony. Meet with wedding party, ceremony readers, immediate family, and your officiant at the ceremony site to rehearse and iron out details.

Day before Provide all wedding professionals with an event coordinator or family member’s phone number to call on the day of the wedding. The morning of the wedding you will be busy getting ready and may not be available.

Finalize payments and/or talk to wedding hosts (usually your parents, if not you) about any final balances to be paid at the end of the reception.

YOUR WEDDING DAY

TIMELINE

Don’t let the clock control you

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ake up! It’s your day! And don’t be a cliché!

Refuse to be late for this special day by planning carefully and using these special tips to create your wedding day timeline!

Many people plan their ceremony and reception but give little thought to the fact that every second counts on their wedding day. The following is a practical time sequence based on best practices (versus what is usually done) in Trinidad. Here are some suggested times and timelines to work with on your wedding day. Since most weddings are carded to start the ceremony at 2:00pm we will work with that for this example. Variations can be made based on the time of your wedding.

be more than 15 minutes away from where you are getting dressed.

If using a paid limousine service that charges per hour, you don’t want them to come too early or too late.

THE BRIDAL PARTY 1:45 p.m. The Bride, Bridesmaids and Bride’s Parents arrive at Ceremony.

CEREMONY STARTS 2:00 p.m. Most Christian ceremonies in the Caribbean take approximately one hour long and some churches charge a late fee to reduce the ‘late bride’ syndrome.

FLOWERS CEREMONY ENDS 11:00 a.m. Have flowers for Bride, Bridesmaids, Flower Girl/Ring 3:00 p.m. This is generally a time for great picture taking both forBearer and Bride’s parents arrive at house. Other flowers for the Church, mal and informal .

Groom, Groomsmen and Groom’s parents should at the ceremony site at least OFFICAL PHOTOS Activities TIME one hour before the ceremony starts.

3:45 p.m. Most couples in Trinidad generally go to a scenic outPHOTOGRAPHY door location for their official photo 1. Get up 12:00 p.m. It is great to have enough shoot in order to take photos of their 2. Have a proper breakfast time for you and your Bridal party to memorable occasion, whilst the rest 3. Hair stylist arrives have your photos and videos done as of their guests go to the reception. you begin to dress and put on your Please remember that your guests 4. Hair stylist finishes makeup. Aim for the photographer’s and are waiting in the hall so do not let 5. Makeup artist arrives cameramen’s arrival at least two hours this session go beyond an hour. before the ceremony. Ensure that both 6. Makeup artist finishes the Bride’s parents and the Bridal party RETURN 7. Finish dressing are ready because the photographer and 4:45 p.m. Wedding Party leaves 8. Transport arrives cameraman also have to arrive at the for the outdoor location shoot and ceremony much earlier than the bridal head back to the reception.

9. Leave for the ceremony party in order to photograph and film 10. Arrive at ceremony the Groom and Groomsmen.

RECEPTION 11. Wedding Ceremony begins 5:00 p.m. Arrive at Reception to ARRIVALS enjoy your night!

12. Wedding Ceremony ends 1:25 p.m. Groom, Groomsmen, 13. Photo Shoot begins Groom’s parents, all grandparents and SPEECHES (1 hour max) 14. Photo shoot ends readers arrive at Church. The photogra5.10 p.m. The Master of Cerpher arrives at the ceremony to photoemony announces the wedding 15. Arrive at reception graph the Groom and the Best Man and, party and invites the Best Man and 16. Reception starts if time permits, the Groom with his Parother guests to toast to the Bride and ents but must be back outside to photoGroom.

17. Dinner Time graph the Bride’s arrival.

18. Dancing Create your own personal Wed19. Official Time to clear hall TRANSPORT ding Day Timeline with the grid on 1:30 p.m. The ceremony should not the left.

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MARRIAGE &

CAKE ACCESSORIES

VENUE

GIFT REGISTRY

BEAUTY JEWELRY

DECOR

TOBAGO ACCOMMODATION

INVITATIONS

ENTERTAINMENT

CAKES

Visit our Online Wedding Vendors Directory at www.ambermediatt.com/vendors for more Wedding Suppliers

s e d i r B

Grooms

STR A NGE

Wedding Practices

TOE RINGS IN INDIA W E all know about the ring finger and whenever we think of a wedding one image sure to come to mind is an anxious groom putting the diamonds on his bride’s finger. Well not so in India. In Hindu tradition brides wear their wedding rings on their feet, a tradition known as Bichiya. Lucky for the grooms, they are exempted from wearing the toe ring.

The ring is usually silver as in Hindu belief, no gold object should be worn below the waist. The rings are worn in pairs on the second toe of both feet. During the ceremony the groom slips the ring

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on the bride’s toes while her feet are planted on a ritual grinding stone.

linked to the reproductive system, keeping it in balance and healthy.

The tradition is highly practiced and the tradition of wearing toe rings carries tremendous social significance for married women. Some men wear toes rings but not as a status of marriage.

• wearing the toe ring causes the woman’s menstrual cycle course to be regularized. This increases the chances of conceiving for married women.

But more than just a marital symbol, Indians believe that the wearing of the toe ring carries health benefits. They believe that: • wearing a toe ring to the second toe has sexual/erotic effect.

• the rings press on certain nerves

• a particular nerve that runs in the second toe, connects to the uterus and passes through the heart. The constant friction caused while walking revitalizes the reproductive organs.

• silver, being a good conductor, also absorbs the polar energies from the earth and passes them to the body, thus refreshing the whole body system.

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MARRIAGE & Bliss

Wedding Venues Listing NORTH TRINIDAD OPEN OASIS (Outdoor) 1. THE Arima Capacity Banquet Style - 150 Price Under $10K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Gazebo Additional Cost Catering, bar, decor, tablecloths Contact: 645-2263 Website: www.oasishall.net

TERRACES (Outdoor) 5. TANTRA Sangre Grande Capacity Banquet - 728 Theatre - 1,045 Price Call for info Cost includes Venue Rental Contact: 370-6276 Website: www.tantraterraces.com

ESTATE 2. WATERVILLE (Indoor/Outdoor) Santa Cruz

Outdoor Capacity Banquet - 300 Indoor Capacity Banquet - 50 Price Call for info Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Kitchen, Living & Dining Room, Foyer, Arbor Contact: 222-6071 Cell:357-4323/340-9305/396-6165

JR&D Convention Centre

DECK (Outdoor) 3. NORTH Santa Cruz Upper Level Capacity Banquet - 175 Cocktail - 350-400 Lower Level Capacity Banquet - 60 Price Call for info Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Cleanup, Security, Parking for 20 cars, toiletries Contact: 491-3325

ESTATE 4. LEILANI (Indoor/Outdoor)

Maracas, St. Joseph

Capacity Banquet - 275 Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Cleanup, Security, Parking Contact: 299-0600, 285-5010 ext 8 Email: leilaniestate@gmail.com Facebook: Leilani Estate See ad on Page 13

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Leilani Estate GOMES STADIUM VIP 6. LARRY ROOM (Indoor) Arima

Capacity Banquet - 150 Theatre - 200 Price Under $10K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Cleanup, A/C, Security, Parking Contact: 643-2560 Email: larrygomesstadium@live.com

LIMITED 7. ANGOSTURA (Indoor/ Outdoor) Laventille

Capacity Banquet - 500 Price Varies Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Set up, Clean up, Parking, Bathroom Attendant, Electrician on standby Additional Cost Bar Services (mandatory) Contact: 623-1841 ext 231

MARRIAGE & Bliss

Wedding Venues Listing CENTRAL TRINIDAD

8.

CENTRE POINT MALL (Indoor) Chaguanas

Northern Hall Capacity Banquet - 800 Southern Hall Capacity Banquet - 200 Price Call for info Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking Contact: 672-4112

9.

PLAZA DE MONTROSE (Indoor) Chaguanas

SUITES (Indoor) 12. CARA Claxton Bay

HALL (Indoor) 13. SIGNATURE Longdenville

Ballroom (West) Capacity Banquet 130 Theatre - 200 Ballroom (East) Capacity Banquet - 170 Theatre - 200 Jacana Capacity Banquet 120 Theatre - 150 Price Under $10K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Parking Additional Cost Catering & Bar (Mandatory).

Contact: 659-2271/2 Email: conferences@carahotels.com See ad on Page 20

Capacity Banquet - 350 Theatre - 500 Price Varies Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking Additional Cost Decor Contact: 222-8896 Facebook: Signature Hall Website: www.signaturehall.com Email: signaturehall@gmail.com See ad on Page 29

AUDITORIUM 14. GENSPEC (Indoor) Cunupia

Capacity Banquet - 300 Price Over $15,000 Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, kitchen area, washroom facilities, change room Contact 671 9241, 222 4747, 693 2228, 620-8579 Facebook: Genspec Auditorium

Capacity Banquet - 350 Theatre - 500 Price $10-15K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Bar Facilities Contact: 360-5225 Email: gastoncourts@gmail.com

COURTS (Indoor) 10. GASTON Chaguanas Capacity Banquet - 500, Theatre - 1,000 Price Over $15,000 Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Changing Room, Kitchenette, Bar Facilities Contact: 360-5225 Email: gastoncourts@gmail.com

LISAS 11. COUVA/POINT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (Indoor) Couva

Capacity Banquet - 500 Theatre - 1,000 Price $10-15K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Changing Room Contact: 636-5017 Email: couva.chamber@mail.tt

Cara Suites Signature Hall

MARRIAGE & Bliss

Wedding Venues Listing

SOUTH TRINIDAD

St. Anthony’s Fitness Centre Banquet Hall

ANTHONY’S FITNESS 15. ST. CENTRE BANQUET HALL (Indoor/Outdoor) Gasparillo Capacity Banquet - 200 Price $10-15K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking Additional Cost Catering, Bar, Decor Contact: 650 1845, 788-6934, 776-8334, 764 4856 Email: safel.educators@gmail.com See ad on Page 21

16. PLEASANTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE (Indoor/Outdoor) Pleasantville Capacity Banquet - 250 Price Under $10K Additional Cost Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Catering, bar, Contact : 293-1574/ 746-6697 Email: pleasantvillecommunitycentre@gmail.com

VALLEY 17. NIA (Indoor/Outdoor) Princes Town

Capacity Banquet - 500 Theatre - 800 Price $10-15K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Cleanup, Parking , Toilet & Parking attendant Additional Cost Access to generator, ice, coolers, uplighting, ambiant & fog lighting, bubbles, fog, co2, graphics and text Contact: 769-4343 Facebook: Nia Valley TNT Instagram: Niavalley2 See ad on Page 34

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HOTEL 18. TRADEWINDS CONFERENCE ROOM (Indoor) St. Joseph Village

Capacity Banquet Style - 70 Theatre -90 Price Under $10K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking Additional Cost Catering, Bar, Decor Contact: 652-9463 See ad on Page 8

LA COU 19. VIEY La Romaine

(Indoor)

Capacity Banquet - 200 Theatre - 300 Price $10-15K Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking, Glasses, Bar Facilities Additional Cost Catering Contact: 697-7034

GARDEN TERRACE 20. OASIS (Indoor/Outdoor) San Fernando

Meridian Terrace Capacity Banquet 400 Theatre - 500 Garden Terrace Capacity Banquet - 200 Theatre - 300 Price Call for info Cost includes Tables, Chairs, Cleanup, Parking Contact Phone: 653 1594

Nia Valley CONVENTION CENTRE 21. JR&D (Indoor) Princes Town

Banquet Hall 1 Capacity Banquet - 700 Theatre - 1,000 Price $10-15K Banquet Hall 2 Capacity Banquet - 300 Theatre - 500 Price $10,000 - $15,000 Cost includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Parking, Private room, Washroom attendant, Landscape area for Photo taking.

Contact Phone: 655-6191, 682-0528 Facebook: JRD Mohammed Convention Centre See ad on Page 16

MARRIAGE & Bliss Wedding Venues Listing

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TOBAGO VILLAS 22. STONEHAVEN (Indoor/Outdoor) Black Rock

Pavilion Restaurant Capacity Banquet - 150 Garden Capacity Banquet - 25 Price Call for info Wedding Planner Available.

Contact: 639 0361

TOBAGO NUTRITION CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY BANQUET HALL (Indoor) Bon Accord

Single Hall Capacity - Banquet - 150 Price Under $10K Whole Hall Capacity - Banquet - 350 Price $10- 15K Cost Includes Tables, Chairs, A/C, Cleanup, Security, Parking Additional Cost Catering, PA System Contact 639-0733/9741 Email: tobagonutrition@hotmail.com

INVESTMENT VILLAS 24. ISLAND (Outdoor) Enchanted Luxury Villa - Mount Irvine Capacity Banquet - 70 Price Under $10K Villa Real - Turtle Beach Capacity Banquet - 70 Price Under $10K Villa Petruse - Mount Irvine Capacity Banquet - 200 Price Call for info Villa Palexoura - Tobago Plantations Capacity Banquet - 150 Price Call for info Villa Rose Capacity Banquet - 250 Price Call for info Azulejo Capacity Banquet - 70 Price Under $10K Three night minimum rental of villa necessary Client responsible for sourcing all amenities Contact: 639-0929/9297 Email: islreal@tstt.net.tt Website: islreal.com See ad below

O

n Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September 2013, Trinidad & Tobago Event Gurus held its first bridal expo in Signature Hall, Chaguanas.

It was officially opened by then Mayor of Chaguanas, Orlando Nagessar. With 30 exhibitors displaying their products and services including bridal wear, jewelry, entertainment, photography, transport and much more, almost 1,000 persons attended over the two days. Surely, it was full of fun, excitement and laughter. There were 2 on the spot proposals, fun games, countless giveaways, fashion shows and 4 lucky couples won themselves honeymoon accommodation.

Sponsors: Toyota (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited, i95.5FM, Red 96.7FM, Hitz 107.1FM, The Flamboyant Hotel & Villas, Magdalena Grand Beach Resort and Playa del Este Resort & Sanctuary.

Exhibitor

Participants

or

Exhibitor

Exhibit

l

Proposa

Enterta

inment

Games Website: www.eventgurustt.com Email: eventgurustt@gmail.com Facebook: Trinidad & Tobago Event Gurus Follow on Facebook and stay tuned for upcoming events!

onsor

Main Sp

Fashion show

Your special day is special to us.

At Amber Media Productions we set the mood to creatively capture every moment and every memory, so that your pictures are as fun to look at as your wedding day was.

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The Advantage of a Wedding Budget Spread Sheet Now that the excitement and surprise of the proposal has passed, it is time to face the challenges of planning your wedding.

The elegant wedding cakes and décor along with the stretch limousine may be exactly what you want, but In the midst of all the excitement it can become easy to lose track of expenses and spend

your money on things that later on you found out wasn’t necessary That’s where our wedding budget spread sheet comes in handy.

With the help of this spread sheet you can itemize things that are important to your wedding. This should help you make sure you stay within budget.

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Name and Address Change List

SUDOKU

Now that the wedding day is over you may decide to change your name either hyphenating it or taking on your new husband's surname. When you do, don't forget to update all the following documents and items to reflect your new name and/or address (as well as new beneficiaries).

• Bank Accounts • Utility Bills (phone/electricity/ water/cable etc.)

• Driver’s License • Insurance Policy (Life, Motor, Homeowners', Health) • Passport • Elections & Boundaries Commission (for new ID and voting purposes) • Credit Card(s) • Medical Records • Employee Records • Call Cards • Licensing Office (Car Registration) • Will/Legal Documents • Club Memberships • Loans

HUMOUR

Kenroy (father): I want you to marry a girl of my choice.

Son: I will choose my own bride dad!

Kenroy: But the girl is Bill Gates's daughter.

Son: Well, in that case...ok Next Kenroy approaches Bill Gates.

Kenroy: I have a husband for your daughter.

Bill Gates: But my daughter is too young to marry!

Kenroy: But this young man is a vicepresident of the World Bank.

Bill Gates: Ah, in that case...ok Finally Kenroy goes to see the president of the World Bank.

Kenroy: I have a young man to be recommended as a vice-president.

President: But I already have more vice- presidents than I need!

Kenroy: But this young man is Bill Gates's son-in-law.

President: Ah, in that case...ok This is how business is done!!

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Each row, column and group of squares enclosed by the bold lines (also called a box), must contain numbers 1-9.

WORD SEARCH M K E B G Q Y R W E V Y B T C Z I

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E R J L N L N T A Z E A D I A X U O E C T D C E B Y E A W N E P L O G E G N E I J B L T S

BRIDAL EXPO CALENDAR CLEANSER COUNTDOWN

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CUPCAKES DIETING EVENT GURUS EXERCISE GROOMS CAKE MOISTURIZER PREGNANCY TRUE BEGINNINGS TWINS WEDDING CAKE WEDDING VENUES

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