2016 Weddings Magazine

March 2016

The Finishing Touch Wedding veils complete the bridal look

Rain or Shine Good luck wedding superstitions

Smell the Roses Provided by

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers

Helpful hints when planning floral arrangements

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Weddings

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Weddings

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

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Cake-cutting etiquette and guidelines

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Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life

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Wedding veils complete the bridal look

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Hot trends in wedding cuisine

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What to include with wedding invitations

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10 Tips for toasting the bride

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11 How to arrange the best

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12 Good luck wedding superstitions

13 Creating a wedding reception playlist

14 Responsibilities of bridal

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15 Helpful hints when

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Wedding rings are symbolic gestures of commitment

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ouples adhere to many traditions on their wedding days, including the exchange of wedding rings. Wedding rings symbolize the union of two people and their pledge to remain faithful to each other.

No one is exactly sure just when the tradition of exchanging wedding rings originated, but some say it can be traced back to ancient Egypt, when the oldest recorded exchange of wedding rings was made. Reeds growing along the Nile were twisted and braided into rings and given during betrothal ceremonies. The round ring symbolized eternity, and the hole within the center meant a gateway to things unknown. Since reeds were not very durable, soon ivory, leather and bone were used to create wedding rings.

As new lands were explored and territories expanded, traditions from one culture were adopted and

modified by other cultures. The same is true with wedding rings. According to the Diamond Source, wedding rings were adopted by Romans and incorporated into Western wedding ceremonies. Romans’ rings were highly decorated, and some historians believe wedding rings were given to represent ownership over brides instead of symbolizing love. These rings were made of iron and called “Anulus Pronubus,” or “betrothal ring.”

Rings have been simplified since those days and ultimately made of many materials. Throughout history, wedding rings were worn on various fingers and even both hands, whereas many married people in Western cultures now wear their wedding rings on the left hand and on the fourth finger. Romans once believed that this finger contained a vein, called the “Vena Amoris,” that ran directly to the heart. Though that is not true, the tradition has prevailed.

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Other legends say that, when blessing a Christian marriage, priests would bind the marriage by saying, “In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” simultaneously touching the ring to the recipient’s thumb, index finger and middle finger, before slipping it on the fourth finger while saying, “Amen.”

metal that has grown in popularity in recent years. These rings cannot be cut and resoldered, which means it’s important to size the rings correctly the first time. Titanium is both lightweight and durable, and it’s popular because it is hypo-allergenic, making it practical for those with allergies to other metals.

Another theory on ring placement is that wedding rings are worn on the ring finger because that finger isn’t used as much as the rest of the hand, ensuring delicate ring materials won’t be damaged.

Wedding rings continue to serve as symbols of a couple’s vows and union. Much like the marriage itself, they are designed to last the test of time.

Ross Simmons Jewelry states that gold is still the most popular metal choice for wedding rings, but couples are opting for some other metals that are more durable. Platinum is popular not only because it is longwearing, but it also tends to be the most expensive. It’s also a dense metal and can feel heavy in hand.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Cake-cutting etiquette and guidelines

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cut through it. Use a cake server to grab the first piece.

Traditionally the newly betrothed will feed each other a bite of the cake to symbolize their first meal as a couple. Couples can feed each other a small amount, taking care not to spill any. Many couples no longer embrace the once-popular tradition of smashing cake in each other’s faces, but whether or not couples follow this tradition is up to them.

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he presentation of the wedding cake marks the culmination of the day’s festivities and a final symbol of a happy couple’s new partnership. Many people eagerly await the cake as much as they may anticipate catching a glimpse of the bride in her beautiful gown. While the cake in all its finery can be a beautiful sight to behold, a cake can only last so long before its fate as a delicious dessert is sealed.

As is the case with many wedding traditions, there is some established etiquette with regard to cutting and serving wedding cake. If you plan on putting your cake on display, be sure it is made with a frosting and filling that can endure room temperature.

Certain creams may sour if not refrigerated, and you do not want anyone becoming ill. If you have your heart set on perishable fillings, keep the cake refrigerated and then have the big reveal right before it is cut.

The cake cutting usually comes near the end of the wedding reception.

Schedule the cutting so that older guests or young children can leave without feeling as if they would be offending anyone. The emcee of the evening typically announces the cake cutting, and the band may play a quirky tune or revisit the wedding song while the first slice is being cut.

A bride should hold the cake knife with her right hand, while the groom places his right hand over hers before they proceed to slice down together. If the cake has a foam or cardboard support, be careful not to

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Some couples like to serve their parents a piece of cake. Traditionally the bride should serve the groom’s parents and the groom the bride’s parents.

If there is a groom’s cake, guests may prefer a slice of both cakes.

Guests may also want to take home a slice of the groom’s cake.

Tradition states that a piece of the groom’s cake should be presented to an unmarried woman attending the wedding. The woman is not expected to eat the cake, but rather to put it under her pillow. Superstition held that this tradition would help an unmarried woman find a husband.

Make arrangements for proper packaging of the groom’s cake, so guests can take home a slice if they so desire.

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The waitstaff typically handles the slicing of the cake. The uppermost tier is reserved for the couple to save, and the remainder of the cake will be served.

Recognize that not all guests like cake, but it’s better to err on the side of caution and have a cake that will feed all of the guests. You also may want to offer a dessert bar for guests who prefer another type of sweet treat. However, this is a luxury, not a necessity.

The cake-cutting ritual at weddings has withstood the test of time, and many couples still prefer to present the cake with fanfare and excitement.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Inspiration boards bring wedding plans to life M

aking the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help.

Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity.

Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning.

While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise. Plus, they’re portable, which means you can take

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a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding.

Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board.

To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you.

As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks. Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials. Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources.

Anything you come across in your daily life - such as window-shopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit - may inspire some creativity.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Wedding veils complete the bridal look

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he perfect dress is on the wish list of many a bride-to-be, but no bridal ensemble is truly complete until the bride chooses her veil.

Veils have been worn by brides at their weddings for centuries. Veils can be traced back to the Middle East, where veils helped protect against the weather while also preserving the modesty of the bride.

In Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, veils were used as protection against evil spirits.

According to popular wedding website The Knot.com, until Vatican II, all Catholic women were required to have their heads covered in church, including during their wedding ceremonies. Veils were worn for this purpose, but they also symbolized trust in the groom and his love and companionship. Some Christians also see the veil as a visual representation of submission to the Church and to God. Others think of the veil as another beautiful accompaniment to their bridal gown, without attaching any additional meaning to the veil itself.

Veils come in various lengths and can complement the style of a wedding gown. They also tend to add glamour to brides’ looks. Here are the types of veils from shortest to longest. · Blusher: Blushers cover the face,

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though some extend only to midcheek on the bride. · Flyaway: Flyaways cover just the back of the head. Shorter veils may work better on petite women. · Shoulder: Shoulder veils are about 20 inches in length and will hit at the bride’s shoulders or just below. · Waist: Waist-length veils cascade down to the middle of the bride’s waist. · Fingertip: These veils extend down 38 to 42 inches, brushing against the bride’s fingertips. · Waltz/Knee: For a dramatic look, many brides may opt for waltz-length veils, which fall to the back of the knees. · Chapel/Floor: Veils that extend to the floor may be referred to as “chapel” or “floor-length” veils. Such veils cascade slightly behind the bride.

Veils can complete brides’ wedding day looks. Shorter veils may be comfortable to wear throughout the day and evening, but brides may want to consider detachable veils if they are selecting lengthier options.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Hot trends in wedding cuisine the peas at the same time. Larger, rectangular tables allow more guests to sit with one another and serve themselves food from community plates located in the center of the tables.

Food and beverage pairings

Food-forward wedding couples are offering guests mouthwatering appetizers matched with a cocktail. A slider and a craft beer or a dumpling and a shot of saki are examples of this trend.

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nce a couple has officially tied the knot, the newly recognized man and wife and all of their guests will retire to a party room where they can mingle, dance and enjoy a good meal.

In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus. But today's weddings cater to people of various culinary tastes, and couples and their guests can expect more upscale and creative cuisine to be rolled out for wedding receptions. The following are a handful of the more popular trends with regard to wedding cuisine.

Miniature bites

Many people say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right.

Instead of large meals that fill guests up fast, they can munch on smaller bites of their favorite dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.

Breakfast for dinner

Some couples are circumventing high price tags for their weddings by choosing to hold the festivities at less expensive times of day. Brunchthemed weddings are a big hit with those who would much rather dine on a stack of pancakes than a dish of pasta. Omelet stations, croissants and a bevy of other breakfast table fare can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Nontraditional 'fake' cakes Dim sum

Dim sum allows guests to sample different foods without filling up.

Carts of dumplings and other small plates of appetizers can be wheeled around so everyone can choose what they want and what they want to avoid.

Gourmet comfort food

Instead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad that is starting to fizzle, couples are now opting for something new. Desserts that mimic the look of cake, but aren't quite that combination of sponge and frosting are trending. Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable and can add a creative spark to the cakecutting ceremony. When offered along with dessert stations, guests

can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.

Vegan and gluten-free options

Chances are one or more people attending the reception will be on a restricted diet. Rather than relegate these guests to dining on side dishes and patchwork meals, certain couples are building entire offerings around vegan and gluten-free foods.

Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings. Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well.

People love familiar comfort foods, but now gourmet comfort foods are shaking up wedding receptions.

Mac-and-cheese with gouda and brie or chicken pot pie with a puff-pastry crust are a few offerings that can add glamour to down-home cooking.

Food with a show

Instead of passed foods or buffet stations, couples are opting to make food an experience for guests.

An oyster bar with a chef serving fresh seafood or a dessert master whipping up flambe^a is a feast for the eyes and mouth.

Interesting buffet stations

Keep guests on their toes with various meal stations. A bountiful display of artisanal cheeses, fruits and breads will be a cheese lover's dream. These stations also can be appetizing focal points around the room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they like best.

Family style

Rustic and informal weddings have grown in popularity. Rather than food being brought to the guests or participants lining up in buffet lines, family-style dining allows guests to share conversation and pass

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

What to include with wedding invitations

Weddings

W

edding invitations once followed a relatively standard format that did not necessarily require much thought on the part of the grooms- and brides-to-be. But many couples now take more creative approaches to their wedding invitations, using them to evoke a certain theme or to establish if the wedding will be formal or casual.

But while wedding invitation designs might have become more flexible over the years, couples should still make sure to include certain information in their invitations to avoid being overwhelmed with questions from guests excited to attend the festivities.

You’re Invited

· Date and time: It may seem simple, but don’t forget to include the date and time of both the wedding and reception in the invitation. If there will be a considerable amount of time between the ceremony and the reception, you may want to include a handful of local dining suggestions so guests can grab a quick bite to eat before the cocktail hour. · Venue information: Guests will need to know where couples are tying the knot, so be sure to include the address of the ceremony site as well as a link to its website. The address will help guests find the venue, while the website can prove an invaluable source of information about the venue, which can save couples the trouble of answering questions about the ceremony site that can more easily and quickly be answered by visiting the website. · Reception hall information: Couples whose receptions will be in a different location than their

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ceremonies should include the same information about the reception hall that they did about the ceremony site. Reception hall information is often listed on reception cards, which can include information on the front and back to save paper and money on postage. · Hotel information: Many couples arrange special room rates with nearby hotels for their wedding guests. Include the names of these hotels, directions to the hotel from all directions, directions from the hotel to the ceremony and reception sites and the various rates for rooms (single room, double room, etc.).

If possible, include a link to each hotel’s reservation form as well. · Reply cards: Reply cards are included so guests can easily reply to let couples know if they will or will not be attending. Couples with wedding websites can even include a link to their sites on the reply cards, letting guests know they can reply via the website if they so choose. · Reception menu: Many reception halls ask that couples give them a ballpark figure as to how many of their guests will prefer each type of entre^ae available at the reception.

Include menu options within your invitation package, ideally on your reply card, so you can easily provide this information for your vendor. · Wedding website information: If you did not already include a link to your wedding website on your save-thedate cards, include that information within your invitation package.

Wedding websites will answer many of your guests’ questions for you, so don’t forget to make this valuable tool a part of your wedding planning.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Tips for toasting the bride and groom

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edding toasts are a tradition that many guests and wedding participants look forward to. An opportunity for maids of honor and best men to express their feelings about the bride and groom, wedding toasts often touch on the heartfelt and the humorous while shedding light on the relationship between the happy couple and the men and women they have chosen to play such significant roles at their wedding.

While guests might enjoy wedding toasts, best men and maids of honor may be nervous about honoring the brides and grooms in such public settings. That anxiety is perfectly normal, especially for those who have never before been asked to serve as maid of honor or best man. Those tasked with toasting the newly anointed husband and wife can consider the following tips to make the task a little easier. · Keep it brief. While there might be many things you want to say, try to express yourself as concisely as possible. Convey your relationship with the bride and/or groom, but avoid lengthy histories that might come off as rambling. While personal anecdotes that shed some humorous light on your relationship are great additions to wedding toasts, avoid going into too much detail when telling such stories, focusing instead on the parts of the stories that illustrate your feelings and generate a few laughs. · Avoid being too formal. Even the most formal wedding can benefit from a toast that veers more toward the spontaneous. While you want to thank the parents of

the bride and groom for hosting the wedding and the guests for being on hand to celebrate, don’t feel as though you need to be especially formal. Giving a less formal speech also may help calm your nerves. · Practice, practice, practice. Practice your speech ahead of time so you are not reading from cards or notepads during the toast. Reading from a piece of paper is less likely to engage the audience than if you are speaking to them directly and sharing some heartfelt thoughts about the bride and groom. It’s alright to hold onto some cue cards to keep you on track as you deliver your toast, but practicing your toast as the wedding draws near will boost your confidence and make you more comfortable once you have the microphone in hand. · Stay appropriate. Humor adds a lot to wedding toasts, but make sure to clean up any humorous anecdotes so they can be shared with all wedding guests, including kids. In addition, avoid stories that, while humorous, may end up embarrassing the bride and groom. · Share well wishes. Before you raise your glass and ask guests to do the same, express some heartfelt well wishes for the bride and groom. Doing so is a fitting end to a tradition that’s meant to highlight the special relationship brides and grooms have with their maids of honor and best men.

Maids of honor and best men making their first wedding toasts may be nervous in advance of the big day, but there are ways to calm those nerves and deliver heartfelt, memorable toasts that will be remembered for all the right reasons

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

How to arrange the best outdoor wedding photos

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hotography is a great way for couples to capture all the special moments that occur on their wedding days. Long after the final piece of wedding cake has been consumed, wedding albums remain to remind couples of all those moments that made their big day so special.

Photography preferences differ from couple to couple, but when weather permits, many brides and grooms prefer to take photos outdoors. Mother Nature can provide some awe-inspiring backdrops, and such beauty comes at no extra cost.

Couples using professional photographers should share their image preferences with their photographers, especially if outdoor photography is desired.

Photographers may have to do a little more work to achieve great outdoor photographs, even visiting a site in advance of the big day to scout areas that can produce great photos. Scouting and preparation can involve seeing the landscape, examining the way the light shines on photo subjects and getting an accurate light reading on a meter to adjust flash accordingly. Photographers also will need to ensure there are no obstructions that will appear in the background of the photos.

It’s also important for photographers to select locations that have shade. This way they can adjust the amount of light needed, rather than having to contend with the photo washing out from too much sunlight.

There’s much a photographer can do in production to fine-tune photos, but the couple can help things

along. Bring along some powder or makeup to touch up between photos. Warm weather can cause shininess or beads of sweat on the skin. A light dusting of powder can tame shine, while any remaining moisture can be blotted away with a towel.

Although brides and grooms may think clouds on their wedding days are a harbinger of bad luck, overcast conditions can actually contribute to better photos. A healthy blanket of cloud cover can produce richer colors and pleasing shadows, making photos even more appealing. If the clouds are just passing, photographers may wait until a cloud passes over the sun to provide just the right amount of light filter.

Couples may want to change into comfortable footwear as they traverse the landscape to get into perfect portraiture locations. This will help keep their fancier shoes clean, and photos can be cropped to hide feet.

Bring along some refreshments when posing for photos, as it can be tiring. Couples can take frequent breaks as the photographer adjusts his or her camera for the next shot. Staying hydrated will keep skin looking supple and ensure that everyone feels refreshed when it’s time to return to the party.

Not every family member will be able to join the happy couple for outdoor photos. Elderly relatives or those who have mobility issues may find it difficult to stand in the sun or make their away across certain landscapes. Arrange for indoor photoshoots with guests who can’t handle the outdoors.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Good luck wedding superstitions

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nglish folklore suggests women who find a spider in their wedding dresses are in for some good luck.

Couples on the verge of tying the knot spend lots of time hoping their wedding days go off without a hitch. The threat of rain drops or temporarily misplaced rings can make couples feel that the hands of fate are casting bad luck on the proceedings, but couples need not worry.

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Superstitions are not always negative, and there are many things thought to bestow good luck on couples about to become husband and wife. The following are some of the more popular harbingers of good luck couples can look for on their wedding days. · Rain: Rain signifies various things in different cultures, and many of those amount to a dose of good fortune for a wedding. Rain can represent fertility, suggesting that couples will have many children.

Rain also can signify cleansing and renewal or the washing away of past ills. · Sugar: Many Greeks believe tucking a sugar cube into your glove will mean a sweet union between the newly betrothed. · Coins: In Sweden, a bride puts a silver coin from her father and a gold coin from her mother in each shoe so she will never have to go without.

· Unpleasant things: Egyptian women may pinch the bride on her wedding day for good luck. The English believe finding a spider in your wedding dress means good luck. · Bells: Bells may chime at Irish weddings to keep evil spirits away and ensure a harmonious family life.

Some brides also will tuck small bells into their bouquets. · Day: Some cultures view certain days as luckier than others for getting married. English tradition suggested Wednesday was the best day for getting married, with Monday weddings bringing wealth and Tuesday events bringing good health. English folklore states that Saturday is the unluckiest day to tie the knot.

Many traditions are in place to keep bad spirits away from wedding proceedings and ensure good luck.

Middle Eastern brides, for example, paint henna on their hands and feet to protect themselves. The tradition of the groom carrying his bride over the threshold is to protect her from evil spirits lurking below.

Good luck charms vary depending on culture and geography. Several superstitions have withstood the test of time and can give brides and grooms a little more security on their wedding days.

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Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Creating a wedding reception playlist

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any elements combine to make traditional wedding receptions special. But many veteran wedding guests would agree that the right playlist once guests hit the reception hall dance floor can turn an ordinary wedding reception into something far more memorable.

The majority of couples choose between a live band and a disc jockey to provide the music for their wedding receptions. Entertainment is often one of the more memorable aspects of a wedding reception, as the right band or disc jockey can help to establish a jovial mood that makes it easy for everyone to have a good time.

Couples can leave their wedding reception playlists to the professionals, but they should also know that they have a say in which songs are played. In addition, couples can have a “no play” playlist that prohibits certain songs they dislike from being played. When mulling the musical choices for your wedding reception, consider the following advice. · Begin by making a list of your favorite songs. Make this list during different days and at different times and moods so you get a good cross-section of your favorite tunes.

But remember not every song is a good fit for a wedding reception.

Melancholy songs or those that include suggestive lyrics are best left off the playlist. · Aim to get as many guests on the dance floor as possible. Well-known songs and upbeat dance music will

inspire more guests to cut a rug than lesser known tunes you may be fond of. Music that spans the decades and various genres will appeal to guests from all age groups, encouraging dancers young and old to cut a rug. · Avoid songs that are difficult to dance to. Some songs just are not meant to be danced to. If your favorite songs fit that bill but you still want to hear them on your wedding, ask the DJ or band to play them during the cocktail hour or while everyone is eating dinner. · Give the music vendor some leeway. Disc jockeys and bands have no doubt performed at many a wedding before yours, and they may have a better feel for crowds than you do. Let them know they have some leeway to play songs that did not make it onto the playlist if guests seem to be avoiding the dance floor.

That professional expertise is why you hired them, and it can make for a more memorable night for everyone. · Don’t stress out about the music.

The playlist can set the tone for a positive reception, but don’t stress out if you’re struggling to come up with songs you want to hear.

Your vendor is no doubt capable of creating a playlist that will ensure everyone has fun.

Hiring a band or disc jockey to perform at your wedding reception is a great way to make sure everyone enjoys a fun night. Adding your own favorite songs to the playlist can make the reception even more special.

Throw a “Wedding Reception to Remember” with a selection of music everyone will love. usi M

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WEDDINGS • SHOWERS ALL PARTIES • ALL OCCASIONS BANQUET HOTLINE: 870.2225 derbycalas.com

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Weddings

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Responsibilities of bridal party members

B

eing asked to join a bridal party is both an honor and a responsibility. When asked to take on such significant and meaningful roles, men and women may recognize the honor but be unsure of what their responsibilities are as couples move forward with their wedding plans.

Bridal party roles can vary depending on certain circumstances, but many couples still want their bridesmaids and groomsmen to perform many of the more traditional tasks associated with their roles. The following are some of the tasks bridesmaids and groomsmen can expect to perform in the months leading up to the wedding and during the wedding itself. · Maid of Honor: The maid of honor serves as the bride-to-be's right-hand woman as she plans her wedding and gets ready on her big day. Maids of honor typically go gown shopping with the bride and may even choose or offer suggestions about the color and style of the bridesmaids' dresses.

Once a dress style and color has

been chosen, the maid of honor will make sure everyone is fitted on time.

A maid of honor will also plan the bridal shower, sending invitations and arranging for lodging for outof-town guests if necessary. Many brides want the details of their bridal showers to be a surprise, and maids of honor should honor those sentiments when possible. A maid of honor also plans the bachelorette party, though many brides do not mind being involved in the planning of such parties.

The maid of honor may be asked to help address save-the-date cards and envelopes as well.

Come the day of the wedding, the maid of honor will ensure the bride's day is as stress-free as possible, helping to address any last-minute issues that may arise.

Maids of honor may be asked to serve as the legal witness to the wedding and sign the wedding license before the reception. At the reception, the maid of honor will toast the bride.

· Best man: The best man is the maid of honor's counterpart, helping to plan the bachelor party and toasting the groom at the reception. The best man also tends to hold the rings during the wedding ceremony, and during the day of the wedding, he will coordinate the groomsmen to make sure everyone is ready to go on time. The best man may arrange transportation for the groom and groomsmen on the day of the wedding and may also return the groom and groomsmen's attire the following day if the newlyweds are departing on their honeymoons. · Bridesmaids/Groomsmen: The bridesmaids and groomsmen serve similar functions, acting as sources of support as couples plan their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen help to plan the bachelorette and bachelor parties and may also be asked their opinions as couples make decisions regarding their weddings. Bridesmaids and groomsmen must be prepared to take pictures once couples have officially tied the knot. They also must help the brides and grooms with any issues that may arise in

the hours before couples become husband and wife. · Flower girl/Ring bearer: Flower girls and ring bearers are often young relatives of the couple, whether they are a young brother or sister or a niece or nephew. The responsibilities of the flower girl and ring bearer are typically limited to the ceremony, during which they will walk down the aisle, either together or individually, before the father of the bride escorts his daughter to the altar or stage. · Father of the bride: The father of the bride walks his daughter down the aisle during the ceremony, and, along with his wife, may pay for the wedding, though many couples now finance their own nuptials. The father of the bride will dance with his daughter during the reception, and some fathers may even share a special toast for the newlyweds during the reception, though such a toast is not traditionally required.

Bridal parties play a big role on couples' wedding days, and those roles are both an honor and a responsibility.

Weddings

Angola and Eden-North Collins Pennysavers • March, 2016

Helpful hints when planning floral arrangements

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aking the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help.

Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity.

Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your

inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning.

While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise. Plus, they’re portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding.

Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the

future, you can readily access your inspiration board.

To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you.

As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks. Attend bridal shows and take home promotional materials. Remember,

inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources.

Anything you come across in your daily life - such as window-shopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit - may inspire some creativity.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings.

M & R Greenhouses, Farm & Florist invites you to...

“Inspirations”

Weddings

An interactive Floral Experience and Showroom Creating your “dream come true” wedding in your style of flowers, colors and textures ...

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3426 Route 20, Dunkirk, NY 14048 (716) 672-8849

Oakwood Manor A quaint, cozy place with a beautiful fireplace to gather for your special event: • Weddings (up to 125 people) • Showers • Rehearsal Dinners • Engagement Parties We have a variety of Menu Packages - Buffet, Sit Down Hors d’oeuvres or Bar Packages available to choose from.

If your party is too large for our facility, we can cater your event & deliver the best food in town to most any location.

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716-574-9401

1986 Lake View Rd., Lake View, NY 14085

716-627-3499

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2995 Lakeview Rd., Hamburg, NY 14075 648-2618

Our spacious Hall is available for any occasion with seating up to 275.

We offer complete bar and food packages, also a beautiful Gazebo for an outdoor wedding ceremony or pictures.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: JUDD WRIGHT 648-2618