Marry ME Magazine Fall/Winter 2012

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

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Say “I do” by the sea…

Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center

offers full reception facilities, guest and honeymoon lodging and local activity planning to make your wedding a very special event for you, your family and friends. Our full-time event manager will assist you with your planning and supervise the day’s events to ensure its success.

• Dining accommodations for 300 guests • Hotel features 150 rooms with ocean views • Indoor and outdoor saltwater pools

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• Fitness center, tennis courts, private pier

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Hotel & Conference Center

www.BarHarborMaineHotel.com 800-336-2463 • 207-288-5801 119 Eden Street, Bar Harbor

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On the cover Cover Model: Bailee Sulham wed Ethan Burnes in Portland on October 9, 2011, at Grace Restaurant in Portland’s Old Port. With less than five months to plan a wedding, they came back to the city that brought them together: Portland. The rest is history.

Get the full scoop about their Big Day by visiting our website: www.marrymemagazine.com Bridal Gown: Bailee is rocking an Essense of Australia mermaid satin dress with an organza skirt. The dress, found at Madeleine’s Daughter in Portsmouth, N.H., cost her $1,600, but Bailee said it was completely worth it: “It is absolutely beautiful and was so fun to wear!”

Veil: Bailee’s birdcage veil has a topper from David’s Bridal. It cost $100.

Jewelry: Sparkling with bling, Bailee is wearing Swarovski jewelry purchased at the Swarovski store at the Maine Mall. Her earrings and necklace cost a total of $150.

Shoes: Bailee’s “something blue” is in the form of amazing Jonathan Kayne Women’s Peacock Platform shoes.

Accented with peacock feathers and a

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brilliant blue hue, Bailee found them

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at Shoes.com for $125.

Hair and Makeup: Bailee’s outfit is accented by soft curls styled by Emily Ventura of Salon Haute Couture in Yarmouth. Makeup was done by Stacia Tetrault of Stacia Tetrault Makeup.

Location: While the ceremony and reception both were held at Grace Restaurant in Portland’s Old Port, Bailee, Ethan and the wedding party ventured into the Old Port for some quirky, urban photos.

Photographer: Vermont natives Bailee and Ethan chose Burlington, Vermont-based photographer Ilke Van Genechten for their Big Day photography coverage.

What inspires you?

Here at Marry ME Magazine we’ve been thinking a lot about wedding inspiration. From the small details to the big picture, weddings are all about love and inspiration.

As we were going through this issue’s love story nominations, we discovered that there were so many weddings with inspirational touches. In fact, we really wanted to showcase a broad array of weddings, so we are pleased to announce four web exclusive love stories (check out www.MarryMEMagazine.com) in addition to our in magazine love stories.

Thanks to the crazy beautiful photos submitted by some of Maine’s best photographers, we’re able to provide you with ideas, inspiration, and tips on how to make your wedding unique.

Why unique? Because you are unique. Your groom is unique.

Your ideas and style are unique. You deserve to celebrate that uniqueness.

welcome

We’ve provided tips on how to include everyone in the Big Day, choosing the gown to enhance your unique shape, hair tips and trends, and reception decor ideas that reflect a different view. Learn about contracts with our resident wedding and event planner, as well as how to be a good host with our ettiquette expert.

And guys, we haven’t forgotten you, either. Why have a traditional wedding band? Choose something a bit different by following the ideas laid out in the Guy’s Corner. Want to wear something less traditional? Check out our attire article aimed at suave choices for guys that don’t include black.

Keep in touch by letting us know about your pending nuptials (or a really cool engagement story). We might choose your story to feature on the site or in the next issue.

Remember how unique you are. It will show on your Big Day. Happy planning!

Marry ME Magazine Assignment Editor

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PHOTO: Rene Minnis Photography

IN THIS ISSUE:

love stories 14 26 38 42 52

Sarah & Mark

ADVICE & RELATIONSHIPS Etiquette corner: Making guests feel honored ......12 Ask the Expert: Contracts ....................................22

GUY’S CORNER Alternatives to the Penguin Suit ...........................19 Custom rings .......................................................20

Megan & Adam Web Exclusives Abby & Jason Lindsey & Chris

YOUR WEDDING Hair “Do’s” .....................................................32-33 Choose a gown for your body type ..................34-35 Great music for your party ...................................39 Wedding party responsibilities .............................40

ALL THE REST Engaging portraits ...............................................41 Registry 101 ........................................................50 Big Day travel tips ...............................................57 Advertiser directory .............................................63

INSPIRATION Ideas ..................................................................8-9 City Mouse vs. Country Mouse ........................24-25 Reception ideas ..............................................36-37 Ideas ..............................................................48-49 A Marry ME Magazine styled shoot .................64-65

PLANNER:

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Vendor contacts...................................................59 Big Day timeline ..................................................60 Your wedding soundtrack.....................................61 Emergency kit......................................................62

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PHOTO: Debra Bell for MarryME Magazine

1. Andree Kehn Photography

photographers

Non-traditional wedding photographer specializing in outdoor weddings, tented receptions and couples with a little quirky somethingsomething. Just like you! andreekehn.com Photos, pages: 9, 19, 25, 48. Featured wedding: Adam and Megan (pages 26-30)

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2. Bell Imaging & Design, Debra Bell Debra Bell was bit by the wedding photography bug after her own wedding in 2002. Using an observant eye, she specializes in capturing “unplanned” moments and finessing the planned ones. In addition to weddings, Debra specializes in pet portraiture and adores combining weddings and pets. bellphotostudio.com Photos, pages: 8-9, 19-20, 24, 32, 37, 59

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3. Darling Photography, Jennifer Storer Jenn, of Darling Photography, is a Maine-based boutique photographer providing both beautiful images and an amazing experience for her clients. With her unique style she creates the perfect engagement & couples sessions. Jenn's wedding schedule is currently booked until 2013. darlingphoto.net | Photos, pages: 48-49

4. Eager Eye Photography, Rogier van Bakel European-born Rogier van Bakel brings the famous Dutch sense of light, order, and whimsy to wedding and portrait photography. His work has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Wired, and other national publications. eagereyeweddings.com | Photos, pages: 37, 40

5. Emily Delamater Photography Emily Delamater is a fine art wedding and portrait photographer in Maine and New England, with a strong focus on details and emotion.

She believes it is truly an honor to document your love, your family & your life. emilydelamaterphotography.com | Photos, pages: 24,37, 39; Featured wedding: Chris and Lindsey (pages 52-56)

6. Emily McIntosh Photography "My life revolves around weddings between owning and operating a photography business and working full time at the Henry's Bridal Boutique. I love being behind the scenes, capturing the emotions and traditions of each different story." emilymcintoshphoto.com Photos, pages: 9

7. Hailey Tash Photography, Hailey Tash Hailey got her start in photography at age 10. She decided to take on photography professionally in 2010. Hailey works with natural light and loves the beautiful backdrop that New England provides. haileytashphotography.com | Photo, page 49

8. Ilke VG Photography, Ilke Van Genechten and John Sappo

9. Jameson Brown Photography, Jameson Brown & Ashley Carlow We are a team of photographers. Though we have distinctively different styles we work together to give you great shots and most of all a great experience. jamesonbrownphotography.com | Photos, pages: 20, 36, 41, 58

10. Jen Dean Photography, Jen Dean

11. Joanna Thyer Photography, Joanna Thyer Joanna has been photographing weddings for over 10 years and loves every minute of her job. She lives in Bangor with her husband and three children. thyerphotography.com | Photos, pages: 9, 21, 49, 62

Samantha White is a self taught Aroostook based photographer who is fun loving, offbeat, a fiancee, world traveler and loves photographing people in love. www.samanthamariephotographymaine.com | Photo page 20

13. Kountry Photography, Brandi Cullen An onsite photographer with five years’ experience captures memorable moments with a natural, artistic approach. Her childhood hobby, strengthened by numerous photography classes, offers the ability to capture memories at affordable prices! kountryphotography.wordpress.com | Photos, pages: 60

18. Sha~Lam Photography, Becky Shea and Ken Lam Becky and Ken joined forces establishing Sha~Lam Photography making their clients' needs their number one priority. They take pride in capturing those special moments while making it an enjoyable adventure. beckysheaphoto.com (also on facebook under Sha-lam Photography) | Photos, pages: 48

14. Kristina O’Brien Photography

19. Shane’s Wedding Photography, Shane Corcoran

kristinaobrien.com | Photos, pages: 37, 49, 62. Featured wedding: Abby and Jason (pages 42-46)

15. MemoryMaker Photography, Soubahn Phanthay Portrait and wedding photographer making connections through images. facebook.com/MemorymakerPhotography | Photo, pages: 24

16. René Minnis Photography René Minnis first picked up a camera in college and hasn’t stopped capturing the world through a lens since. Driven by creating photographs that bring people happiness, René is known to do whatever it takes to “get that shot”. Quirky and fun, she can be seen drinking coffee, knitting, or singing loudly to 80s music when not behind the lens. reneminnisphoto.com | Photos, pages: 5, 8, 24, 36, 48

Shane Corcoran is an artist with a uniquely creative eye. His focus is not only for the bride and groom but all intricate details and guests. He begins before the dress goes on and ends with the last dance. If you’re looking for a new approach, look into Shane.

ShanesWeddingPhotography.com | Photos, pages: 48

20. Stacey Hedman Photography Based out of Cape Cod and southern Vermont, Stacey embraces all of New England as home. She captures weddings, dogs and editorial photos with her fresh perspective and in an authentic film medium.

Stacey's favorite thing about weddings is the connection between loved ones — whether a secret glance between newlyweds, the pride among parents, or the laughter across old friends — and how it tells a unique story to be captured forever. staceyhedman.com | Photos, pages: 8-9, 25, 36. Featured wedding: Sarah and Mark (pages 14-18)

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Jen Dean is an award winning and nationally published portrait and wedding photographer, but most importantly she is passionate about capturing the memories of your own beautiful life. jendeanphotography.com | Photos, pages: 36, 49

17. Samantha Marie Photography

A graduate of the University of Maine, Maine Photographic Workshop and Rochester Institute of Technology, Kevin brings his unique style and perceptive eye to capture all those priceless moments on your wedding day. kevincouturephotography.com | Photos, pages: 25, 37

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Ilke VG Photography is out of Burlington, Vermont, and consists of photographers Ilke Van Genechten and John Sappo. We are a couple team specializing in weddings, family portraits and babies. As wedding photographers we see how unique and special each wedding is and we work together to capture all of those special details and special moments in time. When we are not shooting weddings you can find us working out hard together doing crossfit, mountain biking, skiing, playing hockey and cooking. Ilkevgphotography.com & johnsappo. com | Photos, pages: Cover, 4, 8, 24

12. Kevin Couture Photography

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IDEAS shoes

flowers food accessories

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activities

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PHOTOS: Clockwise from top RenĂŠ Minnis | Ilke VG Photography Bell Imaging & Design | Debra Bell for Marry ME Magazine Stacey Hedman

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| PHOTOS: Clockwise from top Andree Kehn | Andree Kehn | Joanna Thyer | Joanna Thyer | Emily McIntosh | Bell Imaging & Design

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IDEAS scenery props flowers

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and cake

10 PHOTOS: Clockwise from top Samantha Marie Photography | René Minnis | Kountry Photography | René Minnis | Emily McIntosh

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etiquette corner

Honored Guests

Making your guests feel honored

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Story Paula Paradis

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You know the line that appears in many wedding invitations: “the honour of your presence is requested at the marriage of Jane and John.” This is exactly how your guests should feel at your wedding: like the honoured guests that they are. This simple, but important, idea can get lost in the common focus of “It’s MY day!"

To make sure that your guests enjoy your wedding as much as you do, keep these hints in mind.

Extend warm welcomes. Every event planner knows that “the event begins in the parking lot.” Many guests travel distances to attend a loved one’s wedding.

Ensure they “get there” by including driving directions both with the invitation and on your personal wedding website.

Make sure that there is adequate parking and security available for all. Assign an usher or your wedding coordinator to cover the entrance of the ceremony site and reception venue to welcome and direct your guests. Ensure that guests with special needs, such as the elderly or the physically challenged, or those with young children have assistance.

Be mindful of time. Unless you are an international celebrity, there’s really no reason why your photoshoot or change of clothing should last two hours while your guests are waiting for you. Brief your photographer in advance with a prepared list of shots you would like and quickly assemble your bridal party and family at the site.

While photos are happening, make sure your reception's Master of Ceremonies keeps your guests entertained and up-to-date.

Be punctual. Brides and grooms: contrary to popular opinion, being late is not fashionable. It is quite rude to your guests who have made the effort to make it to your ceremony on time. Develop your wedding day timeline and distribute

to the entire wedding party and vendors who are servicing your wedding. You will be surprised how stress-free and on-time your wedding will be if a pre-planned timeline is used.

Be good hosts. Meet and greet during the reception by moving around the venue. Every guest wants to see you up close, share some chit-chat, and have an opportunity to have a photo taken with you.

Always keep your guest list in mind when coming up with your menu and drink list. If most of your friends and family are health-conscious, include some options to meet their dietary choices and restrictions. Always ask your caterer to cater for a few more people than the final RSVP count. It is not unusual for surprise guests to arrive fully thinking that they had responded.

Weddings, by and large, are whole-day affairs, and whilst guests should not expect a restaurant-like smorgasbord, a fair portion of decent-tasting food is definitely in order for them.

If your wedding is held in an unusual locale, always keep guests’ comfort in your mind. For example, the time of year: Will it be too rainy or too hot? Is your site prone to mosquitoes or flies? Is the venue spacious enough to accommodate your guests?

Good hospitality planning resolves these issues before they become a guest issue. The solutions can be as simple as having cold bottled water available for hot weather, hot chocolate/cider for cold weather, umbrellas for rain and too much sun, and bug spray for pesky mosquitoes.

These small, easy, thoughtful touches all add up to one thing: being a good host. Your guests will appreciate them and will fondly remember your wedding day when they were truly treated as “honored guests.”

Publisher RICHARD J. WARREN Marry ME Magazine Editor BRIAN F. SWARTZ Marry ME Magazine Assignment Editor DEBRA L. BELL Marry ME Magazine Graphics Editors SHELLEY L. SUND BRIDGIT CAYER

Advertising Director TOWLE TOMPKINS Advertising Consultant STEVE MARTIN Advertising Sales DORAIN FOSTER

Creative Services FAITH BURGOS BRIDGIT CAYER JOHN KOLADISH TONYA PICKERING MICHELE PRENTICE ALYSHA STELTZER SAM WOOD

Writers & Photographers Bangor Daily News DEBRA L. BELL, DAVID M. FITZPATRICK, BRIAN F. SWARTZ

Contributing Writers Sheila Grant, Evan Kanarakis, Greg Westritch

Contributing Experts Mackie Hill, Simply Unforgettable Events by Mackie Paula Paradis, Paradis & Foster Event Management

Contributing Photographers (for more information, see page 7) To advertise in our next edition, please call 207-990-8283, toll-free in Maine at 1-800-432-7964 ext. 8283 or e-mail advertising@marrymemagazine.com We welcome you to participate in this magazine! To contribute photographs, story ideas, and tips for our next edition, please call 207-990-8118, toll-free in Maine at 1-800-432-7964, ext. 8118 or email editor@marrymemagazine.com. © 2012 Bangor Daily News. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without express written consent.

Requests for permission to copy, reprint, or duplicate any content should be directed to editor@marrymemagazine.com

bangordailynews.com 491 Main Street, Bangor, Maine 04401 To subscribe call 207-990-8040 or toll-free in Maine 1-800-432-7964.

Cover Photo: ILKE VAN GENECHTEN

megan & adam

abby & jason

lindsay & chris

love stories

Four couples chose Maine as the backdrop for their 2011 weddings. Read their stories and be inspired.

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sarah & mark

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love stories

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love stories

Sarah Wellman & Mark Allegrini September 10, 2011 | Winterport

From the capital to saying, “I Do,” in Winterport

A ride “on the good old school bus,” a reception held in a transformed barn, and a missing suit replaced via Maine and New Jersey: Of such memories are a Maine wedding made.

Story Brian Swartz | Photography Stacey Hedman

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Sarah Wellman and Mark Allegrini held their wedding in Winterport on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011. She hails from Winterport, he from Guilford, Conn., and they might never have met except for the expert matchmaking of a dear friend.

Sarah’s co-worker at the Retail Industry Leaders Association in Washington, D.C., Georgia, informed Sarah that “I’ve got the perfect guy for you” and later “asked if she could set us up on a blind date,” Sarah recalled.

The date went well. “On our way home in the Metro, we exchanged [phone] numbers,” Mark said.

They dated almost for two years, and Mark proposed on New Year’s Eve 2010.

He presented Sarah with an exquisite emerald-cut sapphire ring with two princess-cut diamonds inset on the side.

Sarah and Mark immediately started planning a Maine wedding. Because “September is one of the most beautiful months in Maine,” and 9-10-11 fell on a Saturday, “we picked that date,” Sarah said.

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They wanted their wedding “to be more relaxed, low key,” with their guests feeling comfortable and having “a good time,” she said. Many guests had never been to Maine.

“We wanted to make sure they had a good Maine experience,” Sarah said. “We tried to incorporate ‘Maine’ into our wedding.”

Sarah never doubted where the ceremony would take place. “I had always wanted to get married in the [Union] Meetinghouse on Main Street” in Winterport, she said.

Sarah’s father, Galen, owns Streamside Golf Course on Route 139 in Winterport. As

Sarah and Mark discussed reception sites, he told them, “It’s probably a crazy idea, but what about the barn?” The circa 1800s barn needed a lot of work, but Galen spent the summer putting up new siding and even hung a chandelier Sarah purchased at Marden's.

“I think most people thought we were a little crazy, but with a lot of hard work and a little creativity, the result was amazing,” Sarah said.

Sarah and Mark planned their wedding “with a lot of help from our families,” she recalled. While Galen wove his magic inside

the Streamside barn, Sarah’s mom, Debbie, and aunt, Evelyn, picked raspberries and strawberries and made jam that filled “50 little jars apiece of each flavor,” Sarah said.

Wedding guests received the jam jars as gifts from the newlyweds. Sarah designed beer koozies with the phrase, “She said Ayuh” as a nod to her Maine roots.

And Sarah and Mark received a big assist from the West Coast. When Mark and his sister, Christine, were growing up, Christine had a good friend, Jacin Fitzgerald, who now owns Lovely Little Details in San Francisco.

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Many guests had never been to Maine.

“We wanted to make sure they had a good Maine experience,” Sarah said.

“We tried to incorporate ‘Maine’ into our wedding.”

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Jacin offered “to help set up on the day of the wedding and organized the [reception] decorating,” Mark said. “She did an incredible job.”

The sun rose to perfect weather on Sept.

10. The bridal party stayed Friday night at the Winterport Inn and ordered lunch from the Winterport House of Pizza on Saturday.

Behind the scenes, however, Mark scrambled to avert a disaster.

“I forgot my suit in Washington,” he explained, adding that he discovered the oversight on Friday night before the rehearsal dinner. He hurried to Macy’s in Bangor and found “my size pants,” but no matching jacket.

Help lay only a short distance away.

“One of my groomsmen, Benoit, his girlfriend, Anna, was flying up from New York City,” Mark said. “She got a jacket that was the right size at a Macy’s in New Jersey and brought it with her” to Bangor International Airport.

The bridal party walked to the Union Meetinghouse for the 3:30 p.m. wedding,

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Wedding guests received the jam jars as gifts from the newlyweds. Sarah designed beer koozies with the phrase, "She said Ayuh" as a nod to her Maine roots.

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The details

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Event design, day-of coordination, reception flowers and centerpieces and reception paper design: Jacin Fitzgerald, Lovely Little Details Ceremony venue: Winterport Union Meeting House Reception venue: Streamside Golf Course, Winterport Bride’s Gown: Paloma Blanca Bridesmaids' dresses: j.crew Grooms/groomsmen attire: Tommy Hilfiger purchased at Macy's Rings: Harstans Jewelers, Guilford, CT Bridal Party Bouquets, Boutonnieres and Ceremony Florals: Island Flowers, Verona Island Catering: Maine Coast Catering, Rockport Cake: Coconut cake cut by bride and groom made by bride's grandmother. Pies and whoopie pies by Dysarts, Bangor Rentals: Wallace Tent and Event Rentals, Ellsworth Dance floor: Granville Rental, Holden Invitations: Designed and printed by bride, supplies purchased at Paper Source, Save the date vintage look postcards by Beyond Design on Etsy Hair and Makeup: The L Factor Salon, Brewer Photographer: Stacey Hedman, Fresh Photography Transportation: Luce Transportation, Union Rentals: Wallace Tent & Party Rental Favors: Homemade raspberry and strawberry jam made by bride's 18 mom and aunt Honeymoon: Bermuda, private residence courtesy of grooms uncle Bridal party accommodations: Winterport Inn Hotel: Comfort Inn Oceans Edge, Belfast

which was officiated by Mark’s friend, Bryan Blake. Five attendants apiece waited on Sarah and Mark; among her bridesmaids were Mark's sister Christine, and Sarah’s sister, Kelly Anderson.

The ceremony lasted about 20 minutes before the newlyweds ventured onto the meetinghouse’s terraced lawn to greet guests and take photos. Then many guests boarded a rented yellow-and-black school bus that took them to Streamside Golf Course and later that night back to their motels. “Everyone went on the good old school bus,” Sarah said. “We were really concerned with all our guests from out of town … that everyone got home safely.”

Even the bridal party took the bus to Streamside, where the newlyweds “took more pictures out on the golf course,” Sarah recalled. Before Galen officially opened the barn at 6 p.m., the newlyweds walked through it first. “The transformation was incredible,” Sarah recalled. “My dad and Jacin had worked incredibly hard at getting it all together.

“I just started crying, it was more beautiful than I had even imagined,” she said. “Having all your friends and family work so hard to make this day a reality was a wonderful gift.

It all hit me at that moment.”

The buffet included steak and lobster and Dysarts pies (apple, blueberry, pecan, raspberry, tollhouse) and whoopie pies. The bride and groom cut a coconut cake made by Sarah's grandmother, Dottie “Mammie” Havey. The caterer served Maine-brewed beers and a signature cocktail named Blueberry Buck made from fresh Maine blueberries. The bridal party and many guests played lawn games before dancing the night away — at least until 11:30 p.m., when “we cut it off,” Sarah said. “We could have gone all night.”

After honeymooning in Bermuda for two weeks, Sarah and Mark returned to Washington, D.C. They moved to Boston in April 2012.

IDEAS avoid black go casual think shoes... and socks add props personalize your look

Handsome alternatives to the penguin suit

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| 19 PHOTOS: Clockwise from top Andree Kehn | Jen Dean Photography | Stacey Hedman | Darling Photography

guy's corner

Choosing A Wedding Ring For Him

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Story Evan Kanarakis

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It wasn’t really until the middle of the 20th century that the custom became more entrenched of men choosing to wear a wedding ring. Even so, up until recently the process of selecting the groom’s ring was a fairly basic task for an engaged couple. The simple, timeless elegance of a plain yellow gold band made the selection process easy, and even for men who hadn’t worn a ring before, it popularly stood as a pure symbol of marriage and of a lifelong commitment to one’s wife.

Today it is more common for a groom to wear a wedding band, but options now abound for what particular ring you might choose. From the outset, it’s important to get a sense of exactly what choices you have. The classic yellow gold ring is still common; however, white gold has become more popular recently as styles have changed. A precious metal like platinum will make for an extremely durable wedding ring (that is also hyper allergenic), but at an added cost. Options like titanium or stainless steel and tungsten or cobalt might lack the value of gold and platinum, but provide durability with a lower price tag. Given that some rings have been cut directly from larger blocks of metal, they may not always be able to be re-sized.

Once you have a sense of what your choices are when shopping for a wedding ring, you can more easily find something that matches your budget, whether you want a band that sells for as little as one hundred dollars or a ring costing into the thousands. Selecting a ring that suits your lifestyle as well as your personality will now come more prominently into play.

While some may just opt for a plain wedding band, you can choose from more elaborate and, of course, pricier options that feature different polished or textured finishes and can include anything from braiding or engraved features to rings that have been decorated with precious gemstones and diamonds.

Even more unconventional ring options

have emerged on the market that will suit those looking to stand apart from tradition. A quick search online reveals countless talented craftspeople adept at applying old blacksmithing techniques to create elaborate designs, or featuring working gears, fingerprints from the couple that have been imprinted into the metal, and rings in unusual square or hexagonal shapes, placing a strong emphasis on style over comfort.

Many of these jewelry makers are willing to create custom bands with sculpted images or words that have been worked into the ring design. Even more unique are eco-conscious wood rings that demand more care over time, but are a definite contrast from the norm.

At the end of the day, take your time, stick to a budget and be sure to find a ring that suits your lifestyle and is comfortable and feels right. Share the experience with your fiancée and celebrate the entire process. After all, it’s an item you’ll be wearing for the rest of your life.

PHOTOS: Top Bell Imaging & Design Middle Jameson Brown Bottom Samantha White

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ask the expert

Advice about managing contracts with vendors Story Mackie Hill

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Congratulations! It is time to plan your wedding! So where do you start?

The answer: Meet with vendors, interview them, choose ones that match your taste, temperament, and schedule. Once you have decided on the perfect vendors, get a contract from each and every one of them.

What? Did I say “contract”? Yes. Although your wedding may be a fairy tale in your head, it is also a very important business deal. As business people, each vendor is promising you a product. By signing a contract they are held accountable for that promise. You wouldn’t buy a house without a contract. You don’t buy a car without a contract. Even when you buy that fancy pair of shoes with your credit card and you sign the little receipt, that is a contract. So why shouldn’t you have a contract to ensure that one of the most important occasions in your life is guaranteed and secure?

I know it is almost painful to think of a bad side to your perfect day, but without contracts you are leaving your wedding open to irreparable damage, whether purposeful or an act of God.

Here are a few tips to guide you through this process: 1. Always get a vendor contract.

Some vendors may have never used a contract. This does not mean that you cannot work with him/her. There are many generic contracts that can be purchased and altered to fit the service your vendor is providing you. If you are using a generic contract, try and compare yours to contracts online from other similar local reputable wedding vendors to ensure correct wording and legality. If you come across a vendor who refuses to sign a contract, move on. There is a reason they won’t sign, and you do not want to be the victim of whatever is hindering them from entering into a binding agreement regarding their services.

2. Make sure the contract clearly states what services the vendor is providing and your expectations of those services.

This means specific duties of the vendor, when the provision of their service will begin, and when the provision of their service will end.

3. Your contract must also clearly state what is expected of you as the client.

This is your timeline, the provision of other vendors, and most importantly your method of payment and how and when that payment is to be distributed.

4. Make sure that your contract is specific about repercussions regarding cancellations, no-shows, damages, etc.

Sadly, it does happen. Weather, family issues, a vendor "no show": These are all things that can cause a wedding to be postponed or cancelled. In the event that this happens, you want your investment protected. Make sure your vendor contracts clearly state what happens in the event of a cancellation.

5. Last and most importantly, do not sign a contract that requires you to pay the entire fee up front.

It is perfectly reasonable for a vendor to want you to pay a deposit, even up to 50% of the total payment. However, by no means should you pay in full well before the service is provided. Many vendors will require payment in full before the wedding, so read your contract and ask questions. Remember, you are paying your vendors to do a job; you should not pay in full until the job is done.

A vendor’s job is to take care of you and make your wedding blissful. Your job is to ensure that they do that. Protect yourself so your fairy tale does not turn into a horror story.

Mackie Hill is the owner of Simply Unforgettable Events by Mackie, a wedding planning business based in Bangor, Maine.

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PHOTO: Joanna Thyer

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Inspiration for your city wedding

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Photos: clockwise starting from top: Ilke VG Photography | Emily Delamater Photography | Bell Imaging & Design | MemoryMaker Photography | Rene Minnis Photography

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Inspiration for your country wedding

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Photos: clockwise starting from top: Andree Kehn Photography | Kevin Couture Photography | Stacey Hedman | Kevin Couture Photography | Kevin Couture Photography

|| MARRY ME MAGAZINE, 2012Fall / Winter 2012 BDN MAINE MARRY ME January MAGAZINE,

love stories

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love love stories stories

Megan Brunmier & Adam Lord September 4, 2011 | Andover

Love is Primary in Andover Story Debra L. Bell | Photography Andree Kehn Photography

Everything about Megan Brunmier and Adam Lord’s wedding was uniquely quirky, even down to what brought them together: bowling.

BDN MAINE MARRYMARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012 MEMAGAZINE, MAGAZINE, January2012 2012| || MARRY ME January

He was a Director of IT at Bowdoin College, and she was first a student, then an event planner for Bowdoin and for her own company, Pencil Events. But they didn’t meet face-to-face for years until they started attending bowling outings to Yankee Lanes with other Bowdoin singles.

“We bowled there for about a year before it even occurred to me that ‘we’ were a possibility,” Megan said. “I remember

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a couple months went by, and we got together at the Fourth of July. I was making a mess in the kitchen, making macaroons, and that’s when he thought I was the right one.”

The couple spent the next year and a half dating before Adam popped the question in a unique way: an elaborate scavenger hunt involving rings made from various found materials including

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The final ring — with a beautiful yellow diamond — cost Megan a quarter.

glass, paper, and metal. It was the “hunt to find the perfect ring,” she said. Clues came on buttons made from an industrial political button machine (later used for their wedding) and were hidden at their home. The final ring — with a beautiful yellow diamond — cost Megan a quarter.

“He had found an exact replica of a gumball machine I was in love with when I was a kid... and he rigged it so I found it in our garden in midDecember,” she said. “I put a quarter in and out came the ring.”

That December in 2010 started a journey.

“We felt it would be so representative of his side and our willingness to work hard to build the front face of a house wall.”

“We chose 20 people that either had hugely invested in us as a couple or as individuals,” Megan said. “We sent them packages with treats, mini-gumball machines, and an invitation to join the marriage league.”

Their responsibility: “to come, keep the

excitement up, keep the theme going, play games, and rest when it was needed.”

And there would be no “matchy” outfits.

Instead there was plaid.

“We came up with plaid because the vibe was already like taking a field trip to the fair,” Megan said. Add to that Adam’s strong Maine roots, and it was a no brainer. “It’s pretty Maine to have flannel or plaid,” she said. “Even our California relatives were asked to try on the idea of wearing plaid. We wanted them to be comfortable.”

Megan’s dress, however, was not plaid.

Instead it was custom made. Primary colors in the form of a brilliant blue vintage hat — found on a vintage website for $20 — complete with vintage hat pin, red shoes, and a playful yellow petticoat accented her dress.

Adam wore a decidedly non-traditional outfit: A newly-released Red LL Bean Signature plaid shirt, dark blue Banana Republic jeans, and new boots.

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

Megan let her experience as a Bowdoin event planner and their combined creativity take it from there.

Step one: create a concept.

“We decided on ‘Love is primary,’” she said. “We wanted something playful, but we also wanted something casual. We are both pretty artistic, so we developed our wedding branding together.”

That branding included a website, a gumball machine logo, and a primary color palette.

“We had a lot of people from out-of-town, so we knew one barrier would be the cost of travel,” Megan said. “We looked very hard for a venue that feasibly could offer a place to stay.” Then they found the Merrill House in Andover, and everything clicked.

Prior to meeting Megan, Adam had built a home in Bowdoinham. Using that skill, he and his father built an open-faced frame that would serve as the “entry” to their ceremony.

“We felt it would be so representative of his side and our willingness to work hard to build the front face of a house wall,” Megan said. “We wanted to make the most of the Merrill House.”

To do that, they created bunting garland.

Megan’s parents, who live in Colorado, took on the task of creating 1,000 feet of pennants by “converting the basement into a factory.”

The task provided her parents with a way to contribute despite distance. “It became their major Saturday project,” Megan said. “They were so proud.”

Instead of a wedding party, the couple created a “wedding league.”

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The details

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Megan’s bouquet was created from local flora: thistle from the Merrill House’s garden, rabbit tail from the couple’s garden, and Billy Ball flowers secured with another vintage pin and antique fabric tape that Megan purchased in Maine. Family and friends chipped in throughout the week prior to make centerpieces and final touches to the decor.

On the day of the wedding, guests were greeted to the sunny Merrill House and its grounds. Vintage-inspired tin lunch boxes — a lucky find at Old Navy — were filled with treats, a wedding newspaper program called “The Hitching Post” created by Megan and Adam, as well as a factoid button personalized as a conversation starter for each guest.

“The day ended up hot and humid,” Megan said. “One of my favorite things about the wedding was looking over and seeing one of my friend’s girlfriends napping under the tree with a hat on her face.”

The couple planned lawn games to entertain guests after the ceremony. The reception, which included frivolity and dancing, also featured Maine-made foods.

“We really thought everything through, and it couldn’t have been a truer representation of us,” Megan said. “We didn’t take ourselves too seriously, but we put a lot of hard work into it.”

Event Design + Planning: Pencil Events Photographer: Andree Kehn Wedding Photography Ceremony + Reception Venue: Merrill House Bridal Gown Design + Vintage Pillbox Hat: Blue Velvet Vintage Gown Alterations (criss-cross straps; pockets; hemming): Golden Apple Clothing Bride’s Petticoat: Dream Spun Kids Bride’s Pumps: Vigotti ‘Ursulina’ via Zappos.com Bouquet + Floral Arrangements: Pencil Events Engagement Ring: Yellow Diamond in a Tacori ‘Dantella’ setting via Springers Jewelers Wedding Bands: DIY by the groom--soldered nails left over from building their house....

Groom’s Shirt: L.L.Bean Signature Groom’s Jeans: Banana Republic Wedding Party: Various plaids of their choice.

Invitation Suite + Programs + Signage: Pencil Events Hair + Makeup + Nails: I Do Spas Officiant: Bree Candland Event Day Coordinators: Antonio Watson; Ruiqi Li (Student-Associates of Pencil Events) Reception BBQ: Smokin’ Good BBQ + The Good Food Store Dessert: Guest pie baking contest (in lieu of gifts) Event Rentals: New England Tent & Awning Lunchboxes: Old Navy Pie Baking Contest Prizes: Piebirds By Sharon Bethel Area Airport Shuttle: Stagecoach Shuttles

2012-2013 season hair styles Story Debra Bell Brides want to look marvelous, and hair is a major part of looking lovely.

That’s why we reached out to several Maine salons for suggestions on what to do for Big Day hair.

2012-2013 season styles. In the 2012-2013 season, hairstylists expect to see lots of braids and messy buns intertwined within each other. Brides are requesting the same classic looks, but with a twist to personalize them, said Cassie McGinnity of Fringe Hair Art. Get inspired. McGinnity noted that social media sites such as Facebook and Pinterest display the demand for bridal hairstyles that reflect the bride’s personality and a “punch” of creativity.

Bride: Know thy hair. McGinnity said that every bride’s hair is different: from thick and heavy to thin and limp, and anywhere in between.

Considerations for thick hair: When

hair is thicker and heavy, brides should have a hairstyle that holds up all night long. With that in mind, consider side pony tails, half up and half down looks, or an up-do with many dimensions, if the hair is long enough.

Considerations for fine and limp hair: Volume is key. The bride may want to create more volume for her special day.

There are plenty of products that increase the volume of hair and make it last throughout the night. Some brides even opt to use extensions, which are harmless and help when adding those creative “punches” like braids and curls.

Create a cohesive look. Your hair should be the crowning accessory to your wedding look. According to Anthony John’s Salon and Day Spa stylists Danielle Lane and Tess Brier-Broussard, brides should choose a hairstyle that accents the dress. “If you have a dress that shows off your shoulders and chest,

wear your hair up,” Lane said.

Know your venue. Having an outdoor wedding in the summer months?

Humidity can cause frizziness in hair, Tess said. To control frizziness and keep it looking picture perfect, consider an updo.

Likewise, for an outdoor wedding, bouncy curls won’t last the entire day.

“The windblown, natural look is really in right now,” Lane said. “[As are] hidden braids and waterfall braids. The look is romantic, easy, and doesn’t look too ‘done’.”

Veils. Don’t just plop the veil comb on your head, Brier-Broussard said. Instead, talk with your stylist about how to work it into the hairstyle. “When there’s nothing to adhere the comb to, the look can be spoiled,” she said. “Also know who is taking the veil out and show them how to do it.”

The two-fer hairstyle. Many brides are not only having two dresses, but

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month prior to the wedding in order to try out hairstyles for the Big Day. This prevents last minute surprises. Your stylist can take notes about what the style looks like and how it works with your hair. “Remember, this is a run-through, so try not to do it perfectly,” Brier-Broussard said. “Hairstyles never come out the same way twice.”

Bring the stylist to you. Want to reduce your stress level on the Big Day? Have the stylist come to you. Most salons, including Anthony John’s Day Spa, can relocate to your hotel room or home the

“day of” to allow you to relax.

“When you’re having your hair done, this is usually the time when you say ‘OK, this is the moment,” Lane said. “It’s fun for us to be able to come out to where the bridal party is. You don’t ever have to leave and worry about time.”

DID YOU KNOW: Brides should wash their hair the day before the wedding, not the day of. Why? Hair makes its own natural oil when not newly washed. That oil helps the hairstyle remain in place and styled throughout the day and night.

| BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

one way for the ceremony with a veil and then pin it up and put in a flower for the reception,” Lane said. “This is something your stylist can show you [or an attendant].”

For the guys. Get your Big Day grooming done one to two weeks before the wedding, Brier-Broussard said. “A little scruff the day of is OK and kind of cute,” she said. “That way you also have time to play.”

Trial run. According to Lane and Brier-Broussard, it’s best for the bride and her ladies to head to the salon at least a

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PHOTOS: Debra Bell for Marry ME Magazine

On Your Special Day

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PHOTOS: Bell Imaging & Design

Choosing a gown for your

Body shape Illustrations by Sam Wood

Girl, you have curves in all the right places: chest, hips and a thin waist.

Try: A-line wedding dress with dropped waist to emphasize your figure. Find a dress with a sweetheart neckline and emphasize your bust. Mermaid or trumpet style gown to show off those curves.

Avoid: Ball gown, Empire waist (just under the bust)

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You have beautiful proportions, but they’re just a bit off when it comes to the space from your ribs to hips.

Embrace them by choosing a great silhouette.

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Try: Princess-line silhouette featuring a fitted bodice and ending in a full skirt (think Cinderella) This will give the illusion of a longer torso. Gown with a slight dropped waist.

Avoid: A sheath-style dress.

You’re beautiful, but your waist is undefined, forming a straight line from shoulder to hip.

Try: An Empire-waist wedding dress (where the “waist” is near your bust) will give you the illusion of a longer, streamlined look.

Avoid: Princess or basque waist (dropped V waist) dresses will bring attention to your waist.

If you’re pear shaped, you’re smaller up top and heavier on the bottom.

Try: A basque waist (read: dropped V waist) Think Victorian-era styles when you think of “basque” waist. A strapless ball gown will focus attention on your beautiful bust, not your butt. Empire-waist dresses hug your bust while camouflaging your lower half.

Avoid: A sheath which will just be unflattering.

A trumpet- or mermaid-style gown will hug lovely curves while hiding unflattering areas.

Full figure gals have it all going on: bust, butt, well-formed hips, and a bit of a tummy.

Try: Ball gown, A-line silhouette Avoid: Sheath gowns which don’t accentuate your curves.

Gowns with spaghetti straps.

You have the stature of a ballerina or model.

But highlighting your figure can be a challenge also. In some ways, the thin bride is lucky.

Most styles of gown will flatter.

Who doesn’t love a petite girl? However, there are additional challenges when you’re vertically-challenged. So keep it simple!

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Try: A sheath will show off a small, slender bride. An A-line dress.

Avoid: Big ball gowns. You should wear the gown. It should not wear you.

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

Try: A ball gown. A sheath gown will show off your slender form.

Avoid: Be aware of your stature. If your shoulders or collarbone are prevalent, avoid styles that show off your back or chest. Or choose a dress with an illusion panel.

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Ideas for your

Reception | BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

PHOTOGRAPHY: Top (from left to right): Jameson Brown | Jen Dean Photography | Rene Minnis | Emily Delamater Photography | Eager Eye Photography | Kevin Couture Photography Middle: Photograph by Kevin Couture Bottom (from left to right): Hailey Tash | Stacey Hedman Photography | Kristina O’Brien Photography | Bell Imaging & Design

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BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

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Read more love stories at marrymemagazine.com

Rebecca & Jason

Amanda & Isaac

Bailee & Ethan

Bailee & Ethan

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Weddings by the sea

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Set the stage with great music

PHOTO: Emily Delamater Photography

Story Debra Bell you want lots of “wedding games” look for a DJ who will do this for you. However, if you want fun and great dancing, make that known to the DJ while you’re interviewing.

Canned music: Canned music is an economical option; however, it is contingent on a knowledgeable person running it at your ceremony or reception.

It is not as flexible as either the live music or DJ alternative and relies on the in-house sound system or a portable stereo system.

The musical rundown Before the Ceremony Prelude: The music your guests will listen to while they wait.

Procession: Music your bridal party will walk in to.

Sometimes there is a separate song for the seating of the mothers, the procession of the groom and the groom’s attendants, the procession of the bridesmaids, and the bride’s entrance.

Ceremony During the ceremony: Meditations, unity candle or sand ceremony, and other ceremony accents.

Recession: The music your guests will listen (and cheer) to as you and your attendants head off.

Cocktail hour The music your guests will relax to while you have your photographs taken.

Reception Popular moments for individual songs include: Introductions, first dance, mother-son dance, father-daughter dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss, garter toss, and any other special “events” you have planned.

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attendant. Be considerate and provide cover for them and their instruments or sound boards and speakers. Read your contract and talk with them about your vision. Lastly, ensure that all provisions have been made to accommodate their needs by communicating their needs to your venue.

4. Take the time to time your musical selections. If you choose not to use live musicians for your wedding and are going for a DJ or canned music, time out how long the walk down the aisle will take.

Speedy attendants can take a song from slow and steady to a race, and then you’ll have dead time. A good DJ will be able to seamlessly transition, while a CD won't. If you choose to use your DJ for ceremony music, make sure they’re experienced.

So, live music, DJ, or neither?

Live music: Live musicians can adapt quickly and can make speeding bridesmaids or a reluctant ring bearer seem planned. When carefully chosen, live musicians add ambiance and showcase cultures. String musicians, harpists, and classical guitarists rarely need cords or speakers and can set a classy mood instantly.

DJ advantages: DJs have a wider array of pieces that they can play, including popular selections. The DJ can also help with microphones and speaker systems to ensure your guests will hear every word of your vows.

DJs also provide you with a person responsible for keeping folks entertained and having fun during your reception. If

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

The music you use for your wedding is as important as the colors you choose, the attendants you surround yourselves with, and the food you serve your guests. Your music will set the scene for each part of your wedding.

So: live, canned, DJ, or a mix? Only you and your budget can decide what will encapsulate your wedding vibe. Here are some tips for getting the most from your musicians.

1. Know what you want (and don’t want) first. Do you want the beautiful sounds of a string trio or a harpist floating on the air for your outdoor wedding? Or do you want more popular tunes to usher you to the ceremony? Or, are you looking for the whimsy of a boombox held overhead a la John Cusack in “Say Anything”? Make sure your musical selections represent the feel of your wedding.

2. Know the capabilities, and limitations, of your music of choice. If your wedding will happen in the middle of a field or overlooking the water, be aware that extension cords might not be available for your DJ to use. Likewise, the serene sounds of a string trio may get muffled in the wide open air.

Did you know that there can be limitations to what a live music group can do? Very popular music might not be appropriate (or attainable) from a live group. So if you love that Karmin song “Brokenhearted,” don’t assume it’ll sound the same on solo guitar without vocals.

Save that song for the reception.

3. Care for your musicians or musical

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The WHO'S WHO of wedding attendants Bride The leading lady.

Prior to the Big Day: She’s the gal with the plan and the honored attendee of many parties.

On the Big Day: She should be tasked only with being the lovely leading lady. No more, no less.

entry. They’ll sit with mom and dad during the ceremony. Typically, these are children ages 3-8.

Junior Bridesmaid(s) and Junior Groomsmen: Attendants in training Prior to the Big Day: These younger attendants,

Maid (or matron) of Honor: Support goddess.

Prior to the Big Day: The Maid/Matron of honor (MOH) will be the bride’s confidante, her shoulder to cry on, her conscience, and her biggest cheerleader. In cahoots with the bridesmaids, she’ll help plan the bridal shower and bachelorette party.

On the Big Day: MOH is Captain on the wedding day. Her role is to ensure smooth sailing right up to the altar and through the reception. MOH will also oversee the bridesmaids and make sure the bride EATS and doesn’t stress out. She’ll also sign the wedding license.

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Bridesmaid(s):

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The bride’s best gal pals and conspirators.

Prior to the Big Day: Bridesmaids are called upon pre-wedding to attend parties, help plan showers and ladies night out, as well as help the bride in any way possible (including stuffing invitation packages or making favors).

On the Big Day: The day of, bridesmaids help the MOH keep the bride on time and stress-free.

As a bridesmaid, they also stand up with the bride and her MOH at the ceremony and play hostess to guests at the reception.

Flower Girl(s): Cuties with a floral mission On the Big Day: Drop petals, leaves, or whatever the bride has selected on the aisle for the bride’s

ages 9-16, will attend pre-wedding parties, and help out however they can.

On the Big Day: The day of the ceremony their responsibilities will be limited to helping out when asked, and lending support to the key players of the day.

Groom: The leading man.

Prior to the Big Day: He pops the question, helps the bride plan the wedding, offers advice, provides insight and suggestions where needed, and helps the bride keep sane during wedding planning. Traditionally the groom plans the honeymoon.

On the Big Day: Be on time. Eat. Don’t imbibe (much) before the ceremony. Stay focused on the reason for the event. Send your bride a love note or present prior to the ceremony (delivered by a groomsman). Relax and enjoy the day.

Best Man: The groom’s right hand.

Prior to the Big Day: Is the groom’s best buddy and confidant. Plans the bachelor party with help from the groomsmen. Ensures that the groom is grounded and helps out wherever he is needed.

By Debra Bell

Groomsmen:

The wingmen.

Prior to the Big Day: They are the buddy squad. Plan on these guys keeping it cool while the craziness of wedding planning ensues. Attend the bachelor party and keep the groom happy.

On the Big Day: These guys will help keep the groom happy, relaxed, and provide backup to him at the altar. At the reception, they’ll mingle with guests and keep the party going.

Ring Bearer(s): Little men charged with “the rings” of honor.

On the Big Day: Little dudes ages 3-8 will carry the “rings” down the aisle to the groom. Then they’ll sit with mom and dad during the ceremony.

Most of the time the “rings” are decoys, just in case.

Ushers: Guys and gals ready to help.

On the Big Day: The ushers will help seat guests and answer questions that may arise.

Other wedding day helpers You can pull other family and friends into your celebration by allowing them to read a poem, play a song, manage the guest book, circulate with food or beverage. Whatever will bring you joy. If you’re not using a wedding planner or if your venue doesn’t

On the Big Day: Keeps the groom on track and on time. Wrangles up the groomsmen and family.

Ensures that all final bills are paid in full before the end of the night and distributes tips. Will also sign the marriage license.

have someone in charge, ensure that things stay on track by hiring a “day of” coordinator. They’ll handle all the less glamorous parts of the wedding day.

PHOTO: Joanna Thyer Photography

Engaging:

Simple tips for your engagement photos Newly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish. Often, one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might

even be published in the newspaper.

Story Creative Service

experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love. Expect to take your share of kissing, nose-touching and portrait shots.

But some fun poses, such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces. Remember, sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward, but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images.

• Choose clothing that fits the mood. If time and budget allows, have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones don't. A formal outfit, comfortable street clothes, something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos.

Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy, which may take away from the actual images in the long run. Plus, you don't want to look back at these photos in the future and say, "What was I thinking?"

Avoid matchy-matchy, though. If you are dressed alike, you may appear to be trying too hard. It's the individual personalities you want to shine through.

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go with a quirky photographer. If you're reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple, then select a more traditional photographer. Some photographers out there forget that this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want. Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration.

• Select one who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming.

Some of the best photos occur in natural settings, where things aren't entirely planned. If a photographer simply works out of a studio, you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales.

• Choose your location wisely.

Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple. By choosing a place that offers a personal connection, there's a good chance you'll appreciate the photos in the long run. Also, be open to the fact that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image.

Be open to the unexpected.

• Try random poses and some candid shots. Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind,

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day. Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot. The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500.

Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (i.e. fashion models) but may want to break into the wedding biz because of how lucrative it can be. Costs may be negotiated as a result.

When shopping around for a photographer, there are certain things couples should keep in mind. The first and most important is selecting a photographer you can relate to. If you don't feel a connection with the photographer, he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results. He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples. This way the photos don't look stiff or contrived.

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos.

• Find a photographer who fits your style. If you're a quirky couple,

PHOTO: Jameson Brown Photography

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| BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

love stories

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Abby Gross & Jason Markham August 6, 2011 | Deer Isle

Small town wedding hospitality in Deer Isle

Story Debra Bell Photography Kristina O’Brien

Boston, mutual friends, and a Red Sox game were the prescription that Deer Isle native Abby Gross needed for a sweet romance.

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

Abby, a middle school science teacher, met IT Engineer Jason (Jay) while enjoying the excitement of city life in Boston.

“We had a lot of things in common,” Abby said. “We started hanging out together while studying. We both enjoyed day trips out of the city to hike and kayak, but we both also enjoyed the hustle and bustle of city life.”

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“We hiked to the top of the mountain, and we were all by ourselves,” she said. “He pulled a beautiful ring out of his pocket as we overlooked the panoramic view of Penobscot Bay. That’s when he proposed.”

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As they studied for their respective graduate school entrance exams — the MCAT entrance exam for medical school for Abby and the GMAT exam for Jay, who intended to get a MBA — they found their friendship grow as well.

“We had our first date at a Red Sox game,” Abby said.

“After that we spent a lot of sunny afternoons at Fenway Park together. We were comfortable together and enjoyed each other’s company.”

Jay, a native of the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, fell as hard for the small island town of Deer Isle as he did for Abby.

And on a beautiful spring day, the couple hiked Blue Hill Mountain for a very important reason.

“We hiked to the top of the mountain and we were all

by ourselves,” she said. “He pulled a beautiful ring out of his pocket as we overlooked the panoramic view of Penobscot Bay. That’s when he proposed.

He told me later that he had put the ring in his pocket and he was so afraid of losing it on the hike up the mountain.”

Coming down from being on top of the world, the couple enjoyed a long engagement.

Both planned to finish graduate school before tying the knot, so they planned on making their wedding be a perfect reflection of their dedication to family and friends.

“We’re both from small families, but we have a large group of friends,” Abby said.

“We wanted to make things fun with everything that we did.”

Fun, relaxation, flip flops, and family permeated every wedding detail. And let’s get

this straight: Island folks know how to do it up.

Friends and family gathered to hand-make the wedding invitations. Island neighbors came together to delight guests and provide much needed transportation from the mainland to the island.

Bouquets were hand made using flowers from the island.

The couple even tried their hand at making a special wedding wine, setting aside 10 bottles for their first 10 anniversaries, Abby’s mother, Patricia, said. Together, they also created a coloring book with their own love story that they handed out to all the young guests at the wedding.

“I definitely think that to have the type of wedding that we had, you have to work together,” Abby said. “Instead of a three-hour event, we had a whole week of fun, including a boat ride aboard the F/V

Jarsulan for the out-of-town guests the night before the wedding to see the local lighthouses.”

On the day of the wedding, Abby and her maid of honor were delivered to the ceremony site by her brother in her

father’s bright red 1969 VW Beetle.

“The large field opened up into the Deer Isle thoroughfare in front of us, and in typical fashion, I was late,” she said. “[When we arrived] I could see everyone gathered, and Jay

was standing just beyond the crowd at the edge of the water.

As we drove down the long driveway, everyone cheered. So many people were there, but when our eyes met, it felt like just the two of us.”

In fact, according to

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“We’re both outdoorsy people who like to get away. We made sure wedding planning wasn’t the center of our life, but that our relationship was.”

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photographer Kristina O’Brien, the bride was greeted by cheers and approximately 150 red solo cups filled with a refreshing cocktail that the couple had recreated from their vacations in the Caribbean.

The couple exchanged personal vows they wrote, and during the recessional, guests tossed birdseed from

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homemade mini clam hods.

The reception, held under a tent overlooking the water, was an extension of the celebration.

To keep the party hopping, the couple hired the Pete Kilpatrick Band, a decision they’re happy they made. Very few things were not done by the family, Abby said, and photography and live music were the most

important vendors to hire.

From lobsters caught by the maid-of honor's father and a pig roast tended by a close family friend, to freshly caught and picked crabmeat and blueberry cobbler baked by the groom's family using blueberries from GM Allen, the wedding was a culinary tribute to Maine and the couple’s family and friends.

“We’re both outdoorsy people who like to get away,” she said. “We made sure wedding planning wasn’t the center of our life, but that our relationship was. Both sides of our families were extremely supportive and were very grounding, which made planning the wedding fun and a lot less stressful.”

The details

Bride's Gown: J Crew Engagement Ring: Long's Jewlery, Boston Wedding Band: Pete Kilpatrick Band Officiant: Stephen York Wedding Coordinator: Brandi Lawrence Event Design

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IDEAS adornment presentation photography something old

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more shoes!

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PHOTOS: Clockwise starting from top Ken Lamb | Darling Photography | Rene Minnis Photography | Andree Kehn | Rene Minnis Photography | Shane's Wedding Photography

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| PHOTOS: Clockwise starting from top Darling Photography | Jen Dean | Joanna Thyer | Joanna Thyer | Hailey Tash

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gifts

Registry 101 Gifts. They’re synonymous with weddings. But for smart couples, a carefully planned registry will make you (and your guests) happy.

HERE ARE FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD DO WHEN YOU’RE PREPARING TO REGISTER:

Register together and early into your engagement.

At the same time your cousin Betty is asking about how he popped the question, she’ll also want to know where you’re registered.

Think about “shopping.”

Choose stores that guests can easily find either in person or online. Great Aunt Gertrude might not be willing (or able) to go online to buy you a gift, but she’d probably be able to go to Bed, Bath and Beyond or WalMart. Consider also stores where guests can order online, in person, via email or via fax. Make it easy on your guests, and they’ll be grateful.

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Be mindful of budgets.

From $20 to $500, if you give your guests a range of items within a range of prices, you’re more likely to get the things you want than if you register for all big ticket items. Be aware that some guests may price shop as well, so

by giving a clear idea of what you like (and don’t like), you’ll make their gift-buying experience a breeze.

Take stock of what you actually need.

If you’re already living together, chances are you don’t need a toaster or bedding, although you can register for that. But don’t discount the power of electronics, power tools, and gift cards.

Choose items that are truly you.

The crystal punch bowl and cocktail set may be shiny, but if you rarely entertain, many might not be the best items to register for. If you love to camp, consider adding those items to your registry. After all, these are gifts to celebrate your union.

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PHOTOS: Bedding, hearts, wine glass and toaster:

iStockphoto/Thinkstock | Towels: Creatas/Thinkstock | Cutlery: Hemera/Thinkstock

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love stories

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Chris Norton & Lindsey Stephenson November 2, 2011 | Falmouth and Portland

Personalizing tradition in Portland

Story Greg Westrich Photography Emily Delamater

A late-season snowstorm and some clever mutual friends were responsible for creating a match between Chris Norton and Lindsey Stephenson

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A late-season snowstorm and some clever mutual friends were responsible for creating a match between Chris Norton and Lindsey Stephenson.

Chris was supposed to head to New Jersey for the weekend, but when the storm prevented his departure, he went to his friend’s house for dinner. Little did he know that there was a conspiracy afoot. This friend and his girlfriend had invited another friend, Lindsey, to dinner.

Lindsey was nonplussed by the whole thing. While Chris was a moose hunter, and she a vegetarian, the two were “very different.” But her friends knew better, and the two hit it off right away and began dating.

Their long-distance relationship continued over several states and a study-abroad trip to Italy. Then in 2011, the couple moved to a home in Freeport.

Chris had been a financial advisor since 2007, and Lindsey started her career as a teacher shortly after moving to Freeport.

After six years of dating, Chris planned a special Friday night dinner to pop the question.

He ordered takeout from their favorite restaurant and decorated the table with bouquets of flowers. When she came home from work and saw the romantic, candlelit table, she teared up, she said.

During dinner, Chris seized

the moment and proposed. She immediately accepted, and Chris turned to the living room and asked her to tell “everyone” how she felt. Thinking he had set up a live Internet feed, she reddened, embarrassed. Quickly, he explained he had only taped the event.

Wedding planning began with lists of the five most important things to include. They both wanted something unique that “fit our personality,” included family, and reflected their Catholic faith. The couple also placed value in a venue that would be convenient for guests and would allow them to add personal touches.

Lindsey had always wanted a fall wedding, so they settled on November. While their wedding was planned for 139 guests, they started planning a wedding that felt small and intimate.

“It was challenging to find a place we wanted for the fall,” Lindsey said, but Grace Restaurant in Portland had all the characteristics they desired.

“Aside from the gorgeous and unique interior of Grace, it was clear after meeting with [Sabin Beckwith, head of events at Grace], that the service and food at their wedding would be amazing,” Lindsey said.

Taking cues from Grace’s architectural features, including tall windows and rich wood

Wedding planning began with lists of the five most important things to include. They both wanted something unique that “fit our personality,” included family, and reflected their Catholic faith.

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the couple choose the readings for the mass and had fun choosing music with the organist.

The menu of “comfort foods ... reflected the season,” while being unique. Wedding guests dined on salmon with fennel, goat cheese gnocchi, and steak with fall vegetables, all locally produced.

Lindsey and Chris wanted the reception to be fun for all their guests and made sure to choose a DJ and music that would get everyone dancing. Like the dinner, they, “wanted it to be a small party of good friends.”

According to Lindsey, “Everyone was dancing and laughing all night.”

All the planning paid off, especially after reading wishes left by guests on their “wish tree.”

The tree bough painted gold and placed in a vase was Lindsey's alternative to the traditional

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tones, planning focused around creating a look to accent the venue. The color palette was decidedly organic and cozy: dark purple, ivory, and chocolate brown. The colors captured the fall season without being trite.

The understated table arrangements included garden favorites like hydrangea, anemone, stock, seeded Eucalyptus, and English garden roses to bring “the outdoors inside.”

Personal touches included boutonnieres made by the bride from tweed fabric in the shape of a leaf with acorns on it. She carried a “rustic” bouquet of English garden roses, hydrangea, and freesia created by the same florist that supplied Chris with the flowers for the engagement dinner. The couple opted to make many of the Big Day decorations.

When planning the ceremony,

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guest book. The couple plans to mount and frame a collection of the wishes from the tree.

The wedding brought out the importance of family for the couple. After the wedding, they hosted family Thanksgiving and Christmas for the first time, and they keep “finding times throughout the year to bring family together,” she said.

Lindsey has started her own wedding and event design business, inspired by their wedding journey. “I got so much positive

feedback from our guests,” she said. “It gave me the courage to start my business.”

Currently, she’s still teaching at the Collaborative School in New Gloucester, but the creativity of event and wedding planning is her passion. She doubts she would have made that leap without their experience.

The couple opted to postpone their Aruba honeymoon until April 2012 — during school vacation — to enjoy warm weather and beaches without the crowds.

The details

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Ceremony venue: Holy Martyrs church, Falmouth, Maine Reception venue: Grace Restaurant Bride’s gown: Allure couture gown from Madeline's Daughter Bridesmaids gowns: J. Crew Arabelle dress Groom’s tux/suit/attire: J.C Penney suit, Bass shoes Groomsman boutonnieres: Handmade by bride Flowers: Wildflower, Freeport

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There and Back Again:

Tips for Big Day Travel

Story David M. Fitzpatrick You could stuff the bride and her billowy dress into a compact car, with the groom’s tuxedo tails dangling out of the closed door, and the wedding party could follow in a convoy of mismatched vehicles.

Functional, but hardly romantic, and often messy. But there are other ways.

Limos. A stretch limo is always the favored standby. To transport the entire wedding party, consider custom stretch Hummers or SUVs like those at Atlantic Limousine of Maine. No word on custom stretch Mini Coopers.

Coaches. For big parties, try a coach or bus. They aren’t as expensive as you might think and provide ample room for large parties and their gear. Cyr Northstar Tours, the largest tour-bus operator in Maine, is no stranger to wedding-coach service. They’ll probably even rent out their 1950s bus if you prefer old-school style.

Trolleys. These days, they don’t need

tracks; these wheeled trolleys can go anywhere, make transporting the wedding party convenient and fun, and offer great sightseeing opportunities before your rehearsal dinner. Look for York Trolley Company in southern Maine and Oli’s Trolley on Mount Desert Island. Mister Rogers would approve.

Carriages. Nothing is classier than a groom arriving on a white horse, sweeping his bride up, and galloping off into the sunset. Unless he’s supposed to gallop toward the church. But if that’s a bit too acrobatic for you, a horse-drawn carriage might do nicely. It’s a beautiful way for the bride to arrive and for the newly wed Lord and Lady to ride off to the reception and then the honeymoon. (Mud-season wedding? Might want to skip this one.)

Check out Rockin’ Horse Carriages in Kennebunkport for some truly fairy-tale rides.

Helicopters. What could be cooler than climbing into a helicopter with JUST MARRIED signs on the skids and aluminum cans dangling behind it? You can find helicopter tours all over Maine, particularly in the MDI and Casco Bay areas. Don’t toss the bouquet into that spinning rotor.

Boats. You could arrive by water, or even get married afloat! Just ask the schooner captains of Maine Windjammer Association or Maine Adventure Sails. If you’d prefer to stay inland, you can’t do better than a wedding on the steamer Katahdin, which sails the expansive Moosehead Lake. Canoes could work, but are riskier.

Do you have an interesting story about wedding transportation?

Email editor@marrymemagazine.com

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PHOTO: Jameson Brown Photography

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vendor contacts Keeping track of your vendors will help keep your wedding planning on task.

Use this handy sheet of contact information to help you find vendor information quickly.

Transportation

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Reception venue

Officiant

Wedding Night lodging

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Rentals

Musicians (ceremony)

Guest accommodations

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Beverages

Music (reception)

Caterer

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Cake

Photographer

Alterations

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Flowers

Videographer

Insurance company

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Women’s Attire

Stationery/Printer

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Men’s Attire

Wedding bands

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

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Ceremony location

Main contact name: _________________ Phone: _____________________________ Website: ____________________________ Address: ____________________________

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Wedding planner

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PHOTO: Debra Bell for Marry ME Magazine

timeline Use this timeline to help you plan your wedding day!

General time lengths to consider for each part of the Big Day: 2-3 hours: 30 minutes: 15-30 minutes: 1-2 hours:

30-45 minutes:

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60-90 minutes: 30 minutes: 1 hour: 1-2 hours:

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2-4 hours: Transportation:

Bride and bridesmaids hair and makeup: Groom and Groomsmen get dressed Bride gets into her gown Bridal party, couple, and family formal _ portraits NOTE: Allow 2-3 minutes per grouping for each portrait. If family or bridal party members are not present during this time, it will take longer. Ask your photographer to start with the largest group and then whittle it down to just the two of you.

Traditional Christian or non-denominational ceremony Full Catholic Mass Greeting guests and receiving line.

Cocktail Hour Reception meal and Toasts. This may take longer if you have a large guest list and a buffet meal.

Dancing, reception activities Varies based on the distance between your ceremony and reception.

Sample timeline for a traditional 1 p.m. wedding where the ceremony and reception on are onsite and all photos are done post-ceremony: 8 a.m.: Bride gets up for the day and eats light breakfast with her ladies.

9 a.m.: Bride, bridesmaids and ladies are off to hair, makeup and nails. Appointment booked well in advance 10 a.m.: Groom and his guys get together for light breakfast or brunch

Noon: Bride heads off to preparation room with gown, bag, and additional preparation items.

TIME SAVER: Save time by booking a room onsite (if a hotel) the night before so all your stuff is in the preparation room.

12:15 p.m.: Groom and his guys get dressed.

12:30 p.m.: Bride begins prepping to get into her gown.

All bridesmaids, mothers, and flower girls are in their formal attire.

12:30 p.m.: Ceremony musicians begin prelude while guests arrive.

12:45 p.m.: Groom and the guys meet officiant and head to ceremony site.

12:55 p.m.: Bride and attendants head to meeting location to begin procession 1 p.m.: Procession begins 1:30 p.m.: Bride and Groom recess as Mr. and Mrs.!

1:30-2 p.m.: Receiving line finishes and couple as well as all attendants and family head off for photographs while guests head off to cocktail hour.

3 p.m.-4 p.m.: Based on the number of photographs you want taken, this is when the reception should be slated to start.

4:15 p.m.: Introductions, toasts, and the meal TIME SAVER: Consider doing your first dance right after introductions and before the toasts.

6:15 p.m.: Reception starts with first dance, fatherdaughter dance, mother-son dance. Schedule the other “reception events� such as the cake cutting, bouquet toss and garter toss. But, schedule them relatively quickly after dinner as guests will be expecting cake! Then... dance the night away!

PHOTO: Bell Imaging & Design

soundtrack The music you use for your wedding is as important as the colors you choose, the attendants who surround you, and the food you serve your guests. Your music will set the scene for each part of your wedding.

Ceremony musicians:

Cocktail hour soundtrack:

Contact person: _______________________________________

What should the feel of the music be? __________________

Address: ______________________________________________ Special needs: ________________________________________

Reception soundtrack: Introductions: _________________________________________

Cocktail hour musicians:

First dance: ___________________________________________

Contact person: _______________________________________

Mother-son dance: ____________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________

Father-daughter dance: ________________________________

Special needs: ________________________________________

Cake cutting: _________________________________________ Bouquet toss: _________________________________________

Reception musicians:

Garter toss: ___________________________________________

Contact person: _______________________________________

Special requests: ______________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________

Special requests: ______________________________________

Special needs: ________________________________________

Special requests: ______________________________________ Special requests: ______________________________________

Prelude and Ceremony Music soundtrack:

Special requests: ______________________________________

Prelude: ______________________________________________ Procession: ___________________________________________

Do not play (DNP) list:

Seating of the mothers: _______________________________

Song name: ___________________________________________

Procession of the groom and his guys: _________________

Song name: ___________________________________________

Procession of the bridesmaids and flower girl: __________

Song name: ___________________________________________

Bride’s entrance: ______________________________________

Song name: ___________________________________________

Ceremony meditation: _________________________________

Song name: ___________________________________________

Ceremony meditation: _________________________________ BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

Special ceremonies: ___________________________________ Other: ________________________________________________ Recessional: __________________________________________

Notes: _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________

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_______________________________________________________

PHOTO: Kountry Photography

emergency kit Pack an emergency wedding day kit Brides- and grooms-to-be hope and pray their wedding day will go off without a hitch. After a year or more of planning and writing checks for so many things, couples hope that it all comes together in the end. For most it does. Others may need a little help keeping things on track.

Although the idea is to hope for the best, being prepared for a few obstacles along the way can ensure the day goes smoothly. Many couples find it wise to pack an emergency kit, stocked with items to make repairs or handle tie ups with ease.

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Brides and grooms can use this checklist to compile a wedding day kit that meets their needs and customize with any speciality items.

__ needle and thread in white, black and the color of bridesmaid gowns __ extra pairs of pantyhose __ pain reliever pills __ antacid __ quick-clean detergent stick __ bandages __ powder __ deodorant __ double-sided tape __ black buttons __ sanitary pads or tampons __ mints/gum __ makeup for touch-ups __ extra cash

__ slippers or a change of shoes __ umbrellas __ hairspray __ hair pins __ names and phone numbers of all wedding vendors __ static cling spray __ hair dryer __ contact lens solution/eye drops __ nail file __ nail clipper __ straws (to sip drinks without ruining lipstick) __ safety pins __ black socks __ earring backs

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PHOTOS: Top Joanna Thyer Photography | Bottom Kristina O’Brien Photography

Fall/Winter 2012 Marry ME Magazine Advertiser Directory ACCOMMODATION

DANCE LESSONS

Atlantic Oceanside 119 Eden St., Bar Harbor 207-288-5801 www.barharbormainehotel.com

Back Door Dance Studio 34 Lois Lane, Eddington 207-356-1454 www.backdoordance.com

Bar Harbor Inn Newport Dr., Bar Harbor 207-288-3351 www.barharborinn.com

DJ

Marriott Portland 200 Sable Oask Dr., South Portland 207-871-8000 www.marriottsouthportland.com Nonantum Resort 95 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport 207-967-4050 www.nonantumresort.com Portland Regency 20 Milk St., Portland 207-774-4200 www.theregency.com Point Lookout Resort 67 Atlantic Hwy., Northport 1-800-515-3611 www.visitpointlookout.com Ramada Inn 357 Odlin Rd., Bangor 207-947-6961 www.bangorramada.com Ramada Inn Ellsworth 215 High St., Ellsworth 207-667-9341 www.ramada.com Stage Neck Inn 8 Stage Neck Rd., York Harbor 207-363-3850 www.stageneck.com

ATTIRE Henry’s Bridal Boutique & Formal Wear 31 Washington St., Bangor 207-947-0701 www.bangorbridal.com Willey’s Formal Wear 248 State St., Suite 19, Ellsworth 207-664-2525 www.mainegunshops.com/formal-weardefault.asp

CATERING/RESTAURANT

York Harbor Inn 480 York St., York Harbor 207-351-1865

Portland Regency 20 Milk St., Portland 207-774-4200 www.theregency.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY Anthony Johns Day Spa 1010 Stillwater Ave., Bangor 207-907-4263 www.anthonyjohnsdayspa.com

Paradis & Foster Events, LLC Bangor, Maine 207-852-0872 & 207-852-3747 www.paradisfoster.com

Bar Harbor Inn and Spa Newport Dr., Bar Harbor 207-288-8455 or 800-350-3352 www.barharborinn.com/spa.html

FLORISTS

INVITATIONS

Fleurishes Design 27 Thels Way, Bar Harbor 207-479-7210 www.chelceydunhamfleurishes.com

Bell Imaging & Design 890 Coldbrook Rd., Hermon 207-356-2353 www.bellphotostudio.com

Island Flowers East Side Dr., Verona 207-469-7967 www.veronaislandflowers.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Lougee & Fredericks 364 State St., Bangor 800-879-5996 www.lougeefrederick.net

HONEYMOON

Bell Imaging & Design 890 Coldbrook Rd., Hermon 207-356-2353 www.bellphotostudio.com Kristina O’Brien Photography 149 Melissa Drive, Yarmouth 207-272-6872 www.kristinaobrien.com

Point Lookout Resort 67 Atlantic Hwy., Northport 1-800-515-3611 www.visitpointlookout.com Ramada Inn 357 Odlin Rd., Bangor 207-947-6961 www.bangorramada.com Ramada Inn Ellsworth 215 High St., Ellsworth 207-667-9341 www.ramada.com Stage Neck Inn 8 Stage Neck Rd., York Harbor 207-363-3850 www.stageneck.com York Harbor Inn 480 York St., York Harbor 207-351-1865 www.yorkharborinn.com

RENTALS Wallace Tent 36 Commerce Park, Ellsworth 207-667-6000 or 207-593-7643 www.wallacetent.com

Atlantic Oceanside 119 Eden St., Bar Harbor 207-288-5801 www.barharbormainehotel.com

Shane’s Wedding Photography PO Box 813, York 207-337-1894 www.shanesweddingphotography.com

Bar Harbor Inn Newport Dr., Bar Harbor 207-288-3351 www.barharborinn.com

RECEPTION/REHEARSAL DINNER/BRIDAL SHOWER

Anthony Johns Day Spa 1010 Stillwater Ave., Bangor 207-907-4263 www.anthonyjohnsdayspa.com

Atlantic Oceanside 119 Eden St., Bar Harbor 207-288-5801 www.barharbormainehotel.com

Bar Harbor Inn and Spa Newport Dr., Bar Harbor 207-288-8455 or 800-350-3352 www.barharborinn.com/spa.html

Black Bear Inn 4 Godfrey Dr., Orono 207-866-7120 www.blackbearinnorono.com Nonantum Resort 95 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport 207-967-4050 www.nonantumresort.com Portland Regency 20 Milk St., Portland 207-774-4200 www.theregency.com Ramada Inn 357 Odlin Rd., Bangor 207-947-6961 www.bangorramada.com Ramada Inn Ellsworth 215 High St., Ellsworth 207-667-9341 www.ramada.com

Bar Harbor Inn Newport Dr., Bar Harbor 207-288-3351 www.barharborinn.com Black Bear Inn 4 Godfrey Dr., Orono 207-866-7120 www.blackbearinnorono.com Meadowbrook Reception Hall 34 Lois Lane, Eddington 207-356-1454 www.backdoordance.com/rental.html Nonantum Resort 95 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport 207-967-4050 www.nonantumresort.com

SALONS & SPAS

TRANSPORTATION Oli’s Trolley 1 West St., Bar Harbor 207-288-9899 www.olistrolley.com

TUXEDOS Henry’s Bridal Boutique & Formal Wear 31 Washington St., Bangor 207-947-0701 www.bangorbridal.com Willey’s Formal Wear 248 State St., Suite 19, Ellsworth 207-664-2525 www.mainegunshops.com/formal-weardefault.asp

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Thistles Restaurant 175 Exchange St., Bangor 207-945-5480

EVENT PLANNER

Peakes Hill Lodge 40 Peaks Hill Rd., Dedham 207-944-8319 www.peakeshilllodge.com

BDN MAINE MARRY ME MAGAZINE, Fall / Winter 2012

York Harbor Inn 480 York St., York Harbor 207-351-1865 www.yorkharborinn.com

Dana Lavertu DJ 90 Ridgeview Dr., Veazie 207-947-5114 or 800-571-5114 www.danalavertu.com

Stage Neck Inn 8 Stage Neck Rd., York Harbor 207-363-3850 www.stageneck.com

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A Marry ME Magazine

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Model: Ashley (Soucie) Tucci is originally

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from Aroostook County, but now lives with her husband Dave and their daughter in Portland. She was married on September 19, 2009.

Location: We travelled to Bar Harbor’s West Street to do our photography shoot.

Starting out at the Harborside Hotel’s spa for hair and makeup and some beach shots, we travelled up West Street to the Bar Harbor Inn to include the brilliant foliage.

Gown: Ashley looks stunning in Lizette Royale, a Maggie Sottero gown provided

by House of Brides in Bangor, Maine. This style of gown has an optional florette strap to create an asymmetrical look. This gown fulfilled a dream of Ashley’s to wear a ballroom style gown. (Retail: $1,529) Flowers: We asked Gail Royal, owner of Westside Florist in Southwest Harbor, to create a floral look that would match our outdoor photo session and Ashley’s gown.

She created an presentation bouquet of white phalaenopsis orchids with lemon leaf and lily grass foliage. The flowers in the bouquet are a perfect compliment to Ashley’s dress.

Hair and Makeup: Anthony John’s Day Spa loaned the talents of Cosmetologist Danielle Lane and Esthetician Danielle Dumont who handled Ashley’s hair and makeup. With shorter hair, we opted not to use a veil. Instead, Ashley’s hair was styled in soft curls. Her makeup was done to reflect the natural setting of Bar Harbor’s West Street.

Jewelry: We used diamonds from G.M. Pollack and Sons in Bangor, to accent Ashley’s look. Ashley wore a 14K white gold 1 d carat diamond bypass necklace ($5999.95), 14K white gold 1 carat bypass diamond bracelet ($4999.95), a 14K white gold ladies 1 carat diamond halo earrings ($4,699.99), and 14K white gold 1 carat diamond ring with 3 carat diamonds surrounding the center stone ($11,999.95).

Styled Shoot

The Ring

The Necklace

The Bracelet

PHOTOS: Debra Bell for Marry ME Magazine

~Maya Angelou

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“If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love.”

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PHOTO: Debra Bell for Marry ME Magazine

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