Weddings
Weddings
Page 2 | Black Hills Pioneer
November 2014
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November 2014
Proposal
Weddings
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 3
The
Last month, we asked Black Hills Pioneer readers to submit their engagement stories, then vote in our online poll for their favorite. These are the top two lucky couples.
1st Place: Engagement of Nick & Sara Sara Callaway
I
t was a Tuesday night, that of which I was celebrating my birthday. We had a co-ed volleyball game and after that, Nick wanted to go hiking. I never thought anything of it, because we always hike anyways. However, this night was about 40 degrees and raining out. I asked if we were still going and he said of course we are. So after volleyball we stopped to get some pizza. I asked if we were going to eat it on the way up to the hike and he said no we are saving it for the top. I replied, “You mean we have to hike with a pizza box?” He said yes. We started the hike and get to the top of the Strato bowl and
at the top you couldn’t see anything since it was so foggy and misty and raining. I was freezing, so I hurried and ate my two slices. While eating, he asked me how my birthday was treating me and if it was the best one yet. I replied with, “Well, it’s just another day.” So, he finished eating and when he was done, he said let’s go. I looked at him and said “Really? That’s it? No present or anything?” He put the backpack on and I started hiking down in front of him. He yelled at me and said “Sara! Wait! I forgot I had something for you.” As I turned around, he was on one knee with the ring box open! I screamed and started crying and of course I said yes. By far, a birthday I will never forget.
Photo Courtesy: EJR Photography
by
Sara Callaway and Nick McGeehon
2nd Place: Engagement of Savhannah & Austin by
Savhannah Williams
M
y engagement came as a total surprise to me. It was Christmas Eve and we were at my fiance’s parents’ house and everyone was gathered around the living room, ready to open presents.They all insisted that I kick off the present opening and I couldn’t figure out why, but I agreed to go first. My fiance, Austin, handed me a gift wrapped shirt box which was not in anyway shaped like a ring box. When I opened it there was a handwritten note inside. The note went on to say how great the last year and a half had been and how he couldn’t imagine not having me in his life. It was
very heartfelt and genuine. At the end of the note it said, “I have one question to ask you (look up)” When I looked up I saw him down on one knee with the most beautiful ring I had ever seen and he asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. It was the best Christmas present I could ever ask for. It turns out that Austin and his brother picked the ring out a few days before and that he had taken it with us to Nebraska to show his family, but had left it in his overnight bag. During the trip, I needed a phone charger and reached into his bag to find it. Luckily, I found the charger before I found the ring box so the surprise was not spoiled, but it was a very close call!
! s n o i t a tul
Courtesy Photo
Savhannah Williams & Austin Rotert
a r g n o C
Page 4 | Black Hills Pioneer
Weddings
November 2014
I
f you've been dreaming about your wedding since your childhood, you probably have sketched out the perfect dress a million times. The first step toward turning the dream dress into realty is meeting with a bridal consultant at your local dress shop. Depending on your comfort level, you may want to schedule your initial consultation on your own, without the company of friends and family. That first meeting can be the lengthiest as you work through design ideas and all of the different elements of the dress. You can bring your bridal party back on your second trip to try on a few options once you feel more comfortable with the process. Remember that the experience is supposed to be a fun one, so follow our tips below to make sure your first trip to the bridal shop is as productive as it is fun.
BRING IDEAS
Magazine cutouts, sketches and notes — whatever details you can bring on paper will help your bridal expert gain a clear vision of your dress wants and needs. Organize your documents into a bridal folder beforehand so you can explain your goals in a concise, organized way.
BRING HONESTY
If you have certain styles or budgets that you just won't consider, be up front with your consultant. Maybe you're intimidated and nervous about the experience as a whole. The more information and feelings you can share early in the process, the better help your consultant can be.
BRING AN OPEN MIND
Trust your bridal expert. This is likely not the consultant's first time guiding a bride-to-be through the dress decision. Be open to various recommendations as you work through the process. You just may end up going with a style you hadn't previously envisioned.
BRING SHOES
If you plan to try on a few dresses in your initial visit, bring a pair of high heels that are similar in height to what you'll wear on your wedding day. This will help your consultant with measurements, especially for the train aspect of your dress. Photo Courtesy: Watson Photography
Weddings
November 2014
WEDDING CAKES by Carol Bach
Custom-made wedding and specialty cakes.
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If you like dining with us then you’ll love the way we cater to your wedding or special event. From a brunch buffet, hors d’oeuvres, sandwiches or black-tie affair, we’ll help you create a memorable reception that will fit into any budget.
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At the upper entrance to beautiful Spearfish Canyon
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 5
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Weddings
November 2014
Rustic
weddings
Photo Courtesy: Watson Photography
November 2014
T
Weddings
weddings. The more nature, the better, since trees and rolling hills offer the perfect backdrop for a throwback event. Search your local area for unique outdoor venues that specialize in weddings. But be prepared to shell out a pretty penny for these inclusive setups, which generally throw only about 10 to 15 weddings per year. Seating may also be an issue for some intimate outdoor venues, which can mean a no-go if you’re planning on inviting hundreds of guests.
he phrase “rustic wedding” is buzzing in the wedding industry, as brides combine a modern and old-style mix into their special days. But what exactly does the term signify? Rustic means vintage and can span all aspects of your wedding – dress, tuxedo, venue, food, photography and more.
DRESS AND DÉCOR
When searching for a rustic-style dress, consider color, fit and how it will flow with the attire of the wedding party. A classic off-white dress with lace and other minor touches can be a home run if you’re going for that timeless, romantically rustic look. You can also weave the details of your wedding dress into your reception. Tie in the color of your gown with the tablecloths or include a strand of lace on the table markers. Going with a bouquet mix of subtly colored tulips? Display vases with tulips as
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DETAILS
A strategically designed suite of save-the-dates, invitations and place cards. Strings of glowing lanterns strewn from the border of your reception pavilion. Sepiatoned photographs of your wedding party that seemingly place your wedding back in the 1950s. All of these items have one thing in common – they scream rustic. Pulling these Photo Courtesy: Watson Photography details into one event can help beautifully convey your centerpieces on some of your tables. vintage theme. When planning your wedding, consider VENUE every detail and ask yourself, “How can I make this Sometimes the quirkiest venues make for the best rustic rustic?”
A Guide for Today’s Busy Bride
Online Now at bhpioneer.com We’ve put helpful tips and valuable advertising at your fingertips in our Weddings e-Section. From eco-friendly wedding ideas to honeymoon packing tips, this online section is loaded with ideas to save you time, money and stress while planning the perfect day!
Weddings e-Section
bhpioneer.com/site/weddings/
A Special e-Section from
s p i t 100 Weddings
Page 8 | Black Hills Pioneer
B
eing well informed about every detail - big or small - will make all the difference. When was the last time you planned a party this big? If you’re like most brides, this event is a first in size, details - and pressure! Because wedding planning is so time consuming, being well organized is the only way to keep things under control. Most weddings, especially large ones, require lots of advance planning in order to book the best bridal resources, many of which are reserved one or two years before the event. Today’s long engagements — 14 months on average — allow couples time to pull the details together and save for the expenses they may be handling or sharing with parents. This checklist is packed with all the essential steps you need to know about during planning. The more time you have, the more opportunity you’ll have to comparison shop. And you’ll also feel less pressured to commit to something that does not seem right for you. However, if your timetable is condensed, simply move the steps up. For a much shorter schedule, a wonderful wedding can still be had by making some logical compromises. For example, plan on a morning/noon wedding, with a breakfast or brunch/luncheon reception, or a Friday or Sunday evening ceremony and reception. In some areas of the country there is also more flexibility for hiring choice resources for a Saturday wedding on shorter notice during the months of January, February and March. Happy planning!
12 to 24 MONTHS
Before the Wedding................................. 1. Visit your clergy together and set the date for the ceremony. 2. Discuss expenses with all concerned and establish a firm budget. 3. Decide on the size and formality of your wedding. 4. Interview party planners or wedding consultants with a reputation for a job well done. If time is at a premium for you or distance is a problem, a professional planner is well worth the fee. With so many details to look after, their experience can help save you costly mistakes. 5. Consider unusual locations to hold the celebration. Contact your local parks department or historical society. 6. Select the place you’d like to hold the reception. Make reservations if it is in a club, hotel, catering hall or restaurant. If it is to be at home or at a place that does not provide food, check into catering services and book them. Ask to see a variety of possible menus; inquire if a wedding
cake is included or if one must be arranged for separately. 7. Start shopping around for your wedding dress, headpiece and veil. 8. Make alternate plans for an outdoor wedding in case the weather is bad. The most logical options include a very sturdy tent and a platform that withstands rain, or an indoor, alternative location that is indicated on the reception invitation. 9. Invite relatives and/or friends to be in your wedding party. Talk over finances with them and be considerate of their limitations. 10. Select two or three possibilities for your attendants’ gowns and arrange an appointment with the shop to bring your attendants in to see their choices. Because they pay for their own dresses, it’s thoughtful to do this, if possible. After a review of the styles, the final decision is yours. 11. Buy calendars for attendants and immediate families and mark important wedding-related dates for them in red. As other dates are made during the planning they can plug them into their calendar. 12. Draw up the guest list. Notify your fiancee’s family to do the same. 13. Interview photographers, videographers, musicians and florists. Make a separate folder for each service you select. Keep contracts, notes, questions and all pertinent data in them for a handy and quick reference.
6 to 12 MONTHS
Before the Wedding................................. 14. Select and order your invitations. Include extra envelopes in case of mistakes, and a few extra invitations to have as mementos for you and your family. If you want calligraphy and find handwork too expensive, look into computer resources. Ask for envelopes to be delivered early so you can address them leisurely. At the same time, order personal stationery (an ample supply of both letter and notepaper) for writing thankyou notes. 15. Have mothers select their dresses. Your mother has the privilege of first choice so that she can have the color and style she prefers. The groom’s mother chooses a dress similar in formality and in a complementary color. Both should blend with your bridal-party color scheme. 16. Decide upon the men’s attire. Accompany your fiancée to a formal-wear specialty shop in your locale to select what the groom, best man, ushers and fathers will wear.
November 2014
to keep you sane
17. Register with the bridal gift registry in your favorite store. Meet with the director of the registry and her trained staff for help choosing your china, crystal, linens and other household preferences. Indicate engagement and shower gift choices, as well as wedding presents. 18. Reserve the location for your rehearsal dinner.
4 MONTHS
Before the Wedding................................. 19. Address invitations and announcements. All addressing, stuffing and stamping should be completed in time to mail the invitations four to six weeks before the wedding. If you have an “A” and a “B” list, you may mail “A” eight weeks in advance. When you receive regrets, you may invite people on “B” four weeks (and no less than three weeks) before the wedding. Prepare maps and directions to include with invitations. 20. Check with the post office for the postage needed to mail the invitation when all the pieces are enclosed in the envelope. 21. Purchase pretty “Love” stamps for an appropriate wedding touch. 22. Meet with the caterer to firm up the menu and all the details. If any guests require special food, arrange that now. Be sure all your expectations are clearly defined in a written contract, which should include taxes, any service charges, and additional fees to bartenders and waiters, if not included in the package. Also, you should make certain that the location — which should be a licensed catering establishment — carries basic liability insurance. 23. Engage a baker to create a special wedding cake, if you want something more elaborate than what your caterer offers. Inquire about a cake-cutting charge if you bring in the wedding cake from elsewhere. 24. Investigate having air-conditioning in a tent when the wedding is to be held in warm weather. 25. Plan a rehearsal dinner. Members of the wedding party, their spouses, fiancee’s or significant others should be invited, along with both your immediate families. If possible, invite out-of town guests, too.
26. Arrange accommodations for attendants who do not live in town. If neither you nor any of your family, friends or neighbors have the facilities to house them, make hotel reservations. Your fiancée does the same for his attendants. 27. Reserve a block of rooms at a hotel for out-of-town guests. Most hotels offer discounts to guests for a wedding weekend. In advance of mailing invitations, write to your guests and enclose the hotel information so they can make their reservations directly. Once they arrive, have waiting for them a complete information packet, including city maps, transportation schedules and prices, sights to see and restaurants. An additional courtesy, included with this information, might be a refreshing basket of fruit, snacks or other food that your region is known for. 28. Ask a friend or relative to check on your out-of-town guests to be sure they are comfortable and answer any of their questions. Provide that person’s name and phone number in your letter because you will be so busy those last few days. 29. Visit your florist with dress-color swatches to help with the selection of flowers for your wedding and reception. Ask about providing the aisle runner for the ceremony. Again, be sure everything is clearly itemized in a contractual agreement. 30. Decide on your honeymoon destination. Consult a travel agent. Traditionally, the groom makes these arrangements, but if you’re better at that, don’t hesitate to offer. 31. Hire limousines or other specialty cars for the wedding party members. 32. Investigate resources for designing and printing a program to distribute at the ceremony. Desktop publishing should make that possible at a reasonable cost to you. 33. Consult with your officiant about any restriction on photography and videography. 34. Discuss with helpful family or friends the possibility of their inviting out-of-town guests to dinner the night before the wedding, if you can’t include them at your rehearsal party. Also, they might host a breakfast or lunch for travelers, if the wedding is late in the day.
2 MONTHS
Before the Wedding................................. 35. Compile a list of all the friends and famContinued on Next Page
November 2014 Continued from Previous Page ily members you would like to have invited to showers. 36. Tell the hostess for parties in your honor where you are registered. That store may be indicated right on the shower invitation, but not on the wedding invitation. 37. Now’s the time to put your wedding invitations into the mail. 38. Record your wedding gifts as they arrive. Note the giver’s name, address, type of gift, date received and date you acknowledge them. 39. Write thank-you notes promptly. Within two months of returning from your honeymoon, you should acknowledge all wedding gifts. 40. Call to confirm the exact date and time of rehearsals with your officiant. Notify attendants and family of the time and place. 41. Send out all invitations to the rehearsal dinner. 42. Plan a get-together party for your attendants. 43. Select gifts for wedding attendants. Your fiancée does the same for his. 44. Begin trousseau shopping for lingerie, honeymoon clothes and other items you’ll need depending on where you plan to live. 45. Purchase a pretty wedding guest book for friends and family to sign at the reception. 46. Check with local authorities to see whether a blood test is needed for a marriage license. 47. Make an appointment with your doctor for a complete physical. See your dentist, too. 48. Meet with the organist and anyone else you have asked to play or sing at the service to determine the music.
Weddings
49. Meet with the musicians or DJ engaged to play at the reception to plan the selections you and your fiancée want, from your song to the dance tempo you expect them to maintain. Plan a variety of songs so there’s something older guests will enjoy as well as what’s hot among your peers. Caution the musicians about excessive volume — it can ruin a reception. Tell them about any ethnic favorites you may want so they’ll be familiar with the music. Inquire about breaks, continuous music and overtime. Get it all in writing. 50. Speak with the caterer about the food you want to serve to your photographer and musicians. Something simple to eat, a beverage and a place to sit that’s away from your guests are considered sufficient. 51. Meet with the person handling your reception and firm up every detail. If rental equipment is required, make arrangements for it. 52. Select your wedding ring(s). Arrange for engraving. 53. Set a date with your photographer for a formal bridal portrait to be made four weeks before the wedding. 54. Discuss having a portrait of both of you done for the newspaper announcement. This is an alternative to the traditional formal newspaper photo. Or you may submit a wedding photo of the two of you taken on your wedding. 55. Check with your local newspaper for the form and timing of your wedding-announcement submission. 56. Select party favors to present to your guests to thank them for sharing your happiness. For this purpose, a groom’s cake, in a traditional fruitcake or deep, rich chocolate, may be ordered from your baker. Guests take a piece home in little boxes. 57. Give thought to your cake top. Porcelain
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figurines are beautiful and will be a lasting memento. A creative baker will most likely have other ideas to present to you. 58. Talk about ways to personalize your ceremony and then discuss your ideas with the officiant. 59. Check with the church sexton and manager of the reception location for accessibility to accommodate handicapped or elderly guests. Inform ushers of this. 60. Buy fake rings to sew on your ring bearer’s pillow. The best man carries the real ones.
1 MONTH
Before the Wedding.............................. 61. Finalize plans with your photographer and draw up a list of pictures you definitely want taken during the ceremony and reception.
62. Ask a relative or friend who knows the family well to help the photographer identify the people to be included in your photos, especially if there is a divorce or remarriage, or any type of sticky situation among the parents of the couple. 63. Develop an orderly system of tracking guests’ responses and any special information you need to remember. 64. Discuss the bachelor party with your fiancée. Suggest the event be scheduled at least a week before the wedding day so there’s plenty of time to recover from the revelry. 65. Have a final fitting on your gown and make certain it will be ready to take to your bridal-portrait sitting. 66. Make an appointment to have your hair Continued on Next Page
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Page 10 | Black Hills Pioneer
Weddings
Continued from Previous Page
Photo Courtesy: Watson Photography
styled just before your formal portrait is taken, and again the day before or day of your wedding. 67. Check apparel for the wedding party. Have bridesmaids’ gowns fitted. Get swatches of material and have shoes dyed to match. If any attendants live out of town, send their dresses to them to be fitted. Check mothers’ dresses and accessories. 68. Call the caterer and make a final decision on the reception menu. Be sure that the cake has been ordered. 69. Give your caterer a reliable estimate of the number of guests expected at the wedding reception, so they can give you a written confirmation of cost per person with an itemized accounting - to the smallest detail - of what they promise to provide. 70. Confer with the florist to be sure everything is ordered. Confirm the time that flowers will be delivered and decorations will be completed. 71. Arrange a transportation schedule for those in the wedding party. 72. Select a special wedding gift to give each other. 73. Go over all procedures of the wedding ceremony and receiving line with each other. 74. Make seating plans for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception. 75. Write out place cards, if you plan to have a bride’s table and a parent’s table. Also complete table number cards for guests if you’re hosting a sit-down dinner. 76. Decide which members of the wedding will be included in the receiving line and plan their positions. 77. Keep gift checklist up to date, and write
November 2014 thank-you notes daily. 78. Consult professional movers for estimates to move your gifts and personal belongings to another town, if you’re relocating. 79. Make certain you are insured against damage or loss in transit.
2 WEEKS
Before the Wedding.............................. 80. Set a date with your fiancée to get your marriage license. 81. Be sure that the clothing and accessories for all members of the bridal party are in order. 82. Check with the society editor of your local newspaper and your groom’s hometown paper to find out what form they wish you to follow to submit your wedding announcement and photograph. Mail the materials soon. 83. Change your name on your bank account, Social Security card, license, insurance and other important documents, if you are assuming your husband’s name.
1 WEEK
Before the Wedding.............................. 84. Finalize your rehearsal dinner arrangements. 85. Wrap gifts purchased for your attendants and groom. Present them at the rehearsal party. 86. Make plans to transport any gifts brought to the reception to your parents’ home or other designated place. 87. Call guests who have not responded to Continued on Pg. 13
Weddings
November 2014
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 11
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Page 12 | Black Hills Pioneer
Weddings
Happily Ever After.. begins at Besler’s Cadillac Ranch
November 2014
From charming wedding receptions to intimate rehearsal dinners, birthday parties or Christmas parties, we offer memorable event space. Conveniently located along the beautiful Redwater River in the Black Hills of South Dakota, the location includes breathtaking scenery, a full service bar, cabins and camper hook-ups, and the friendliest service available.
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Weddings
November 2014
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 13
Shoes
The
O
ften overlooked and hardly seen, shoes are the underrated piece of a stunning bridal ensemble. They can be the most important aspect of bridal comfort from the time you walk ceremoniously down the aisle all the way through the last dance of the night. Choosing your dream gown is difficult enough, so don’t sweat the small stuff on your shoes. You can be both functional and fashionable when selecting a shoe that matches your dress.
ALWAYS MEASURE
You may be attracted to a special online deal that you come across, but be sure to have an accurate measurement before making your final purchase. Measuring is also important for your bridal shop consultant. Once you have your shoes, wear them for your dress fitting. This way, your dressmaker will know know the exact height of your shoes so she can adjust your dress accordingly.
1 DAY
Continued from Page 10 their invitation to ask if they’ll be attending. 88. Add last-minute acceptances and phone your caterer with the final guest count. 89. Confirm ceremony vocalists and musicians, and recheck your musical selections. 90. Arrange your gift display. All cards should be removed. Checks are not displayed, but a card stating “Check from Aunt Louise” may be substituted. Insure gifts. 91. Invite friends and relatives to drop by to see your gifts. 92. Present a small gift or note of appreciation to friends and relatives who did special favors that made planning run smoothly. 93. Do a final check on details with your florist, caterer, sexton, clergy, musicians and photographer. 94. Finalize your honeymoon plans and begin packing.
Before the Wedding.............................. 95. Have a manicure, pedicure and even a massage to pamper yourself and help you feel relaxed. 96. Attend the rehearsal. Review all important duties with the principals in the wedding party. 97. Give ushers the list of guests to be seated in the reserved section.
THE WEDDING DAY......... 98. Rest and thoroughly relax in a nice warm bath. 99. Allow plenty of time to dress - about two hours before the ceremony begins, if possible. 100. Have a wonderful wedding day and enjoy every beautiful moment!
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COMFORT FIRST
You will likely be on your feet for most of your wedding day, so opt for comfort first. What good are your shoes if your feet are blistered at the end of the night? Choosing a high spiky heel may sound like a good idea for giving you a bit of extra height, but won’t seem so enticing after you catch a heel in your dress.
MATCH YOUR THEME
Are you going with a country wedding that will be most easily navigated on a pair of wedges? How about a big city event that you may decide to brave high heels? The nature of your venue and event deserve consideration during your shoe-shopping experience.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Don’t wait until your special day to give your shoes a test run. Wear them around the house for a couple hours per week leading up to the wedding. This will help them break in and get your feet used to them, as well.
Weddings
November 2014 Photo Courtesy: Yuri_Arcurs / yaymicro.com
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Preserve those
Memories C
hoosing the wrong photographer may not altogether ruin your wedding day, but it can definitely spoil the memory as you look back on less-than-par photographs. Here are a few tips for choosing the right photographer:
BE QUICK
Don’t wait to the last minute. When planning your wedding, choosing a photographer is one of the first things on the list. Good photographers are often booked a year or more in advance, so the photographer needs to be one of the first people you call after the engagement is announced.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Review previous work. And don’t just rely on a few good wedding shots posted on a website. Look through your would-be photographer’s portfolio. Is the lighting good? How about the colors? Also make sure you are reviewing the work of the actual photographer that will be taking your pictures. Larger studios may have several photographers that represent them.
GET REFERENCES
Personal references from others who have used the photographer in question are always a good idea. Inquire not only about the finished product, but also about their experience with them. Was it pleasant and hassle-free? Would they use them again?
KNOW THEIR PLANS
Ask about backup equipment. Not only should your wedding photographer have an assistant to help them, but they should also bring extra equipment in case the originals fail. Multiple lenses, flash cards and batteries are a must.
SIGN A CONTRACT
Most photographers are very professional, but this step will ensure that they don’t suddenly change the pricing or back out at the last minute. Negotiate price, packages, proofs and other particulars, and then get it in writing. Don’t sign anything until you have had the time to review the contract. You want to have a good understanding of the products and services you will be receiving before you enter into the contract agreement. Because great pictures are the cornerstone of your wedding memorabilia, it’s important to choose a trustworthy and competent photographer. Having uniquely preserved wedding memories is a oneshot deal. Do your homework and employ these tips when choosing the photographer for your wedding. Whether you opt for video, photography or another method to record the day’s events, be sure to have a plan ahead of time so you’re not scrambling for ideas at the last minute.
WEDDING JOURNAL
From the day of your engagement to the day of your wedding – and even for years to come – a wedding journal is a great way to record your thoughts and emotions related to your marriage. Initially you can use it to jot down ideas for the wedding and reception while also writing about your happiness, excitement and expectations for married life. Writing in a journal can also serve as a type of release from the stress of planning a wedding.
DISPOSABLE CAMERAS
Want a fun way to capture memories and make your guests a part of the story? Consider using disposable
VIDEOGRAPHER
Video is a powerful option for preserving your wedding memories, as it affords you the opportunity to watch yourself walk
Photos Courtesy: Northern Hills Photo Booth
down the aisle over and over again. A professional videographer can set up multiple cameras to capture your wedding and reception from every angle, even in crisp HD format. Be ready to shell out a big portion of your wedding budget for this option, though. Quality video technicians don’t come cheap.
cameras. They are an affordable option for capturing your wedding through the eyes of your guests. Lay two or three cameras on each table and let your friends and family members play photographer for a night. They are likely to offer you snapshots into the parts of the party that you weren’t able to see for yourself, supplementing the traditional images from your professional photographer.
RENT A PHOTO BOOTH
Another unique and fun way to capture special family and friends at your wedding is to hire a photo booth. You can get instant event pictures that you and friends will thoroughly enjoy.
Weddings
November 2014
Wedding
Invitations
W
more modern, artsy invitations. Circular invites or scalloped edges can add some whimsy to the wedding mood. Invitations that fold out or are embellished with ribbon or other decorations can be appealing. Just keep in mind that cards that are not the standard shape and size could be more costly to send. Always have the entire wedding invitation weighed and priced at the post office so you will know what the postage will cost. • Choose a legible font and text color. Your invitation may look beautiful, but it may prove ineffective if it is difficult to read. Do not risk guests misinterpreting the date or the location because they cannot read the writing on the invitation. Steer clear of pastel or yellow text colors, and remember to have a high contrast between the color of the invitation and the text you are using for easy reading. • Keep the invitation simple. It may be tempting to load the invitation with lots of information, but all you really need are the key pieces of information, such as the “who,” “what,” “where,” and “when.” Crowding the card will take away from its aesthetic appeal. Most stationers will suggest a separate, smaller insert in the wedding invitation for the reception information and response card. Never put information such as where you are registered or “no kids allowed.” This is material better reserved for word of mouth or on a wedding Web site. • Do some math. It is important to know your dates so you can receive the invitations on time, mail them out, and give guests enough time to respond. A good rule of thumb is to mail out the invitations at least two months before the wedding. Have an RSVP date of no more than three to four weeks before the wedding, giving ample time to the caterers and accommodating anyone who procrastinates in
edding invitations often provide guests with a first glimpse of a wedding’s style. Invitations also may serve as the means by which distant friends and relatives find out about a couple’s pending nuptials if a formal announcement was not made. Amid the flourishes of calligraphy and impressive paper stock is information that speaks to the importance of the day when two people will be joining their lives together. Guests will learn not only the time and the place of the wedding from the invitation, but also the formality of the event and the scope of the party that will follow. Couples should keep certain things in mind as they begin to design their wedding invitations. • Have a good idea of your potential guest list. Before shopping for wedding invitations, it is key to have a strong idea of just how big the wedding will be and how many guests will be invited. This way you will know how many invitations you will need. Invitations vary in price, so cost may be a consideration if your guest list is extensive. • Decide on the formality of the wedding. Will you be hosting a black tie affair, or will it be a casual gathering at the shore? Guests infer many things about the wedding from the invitations, which should match the formality of the event in style and the sentiments expressed. An ornate invitation written with classic wording suggests a more formal affair, while a whimsical invitation with less formal wording could indicate a more laid-back event. • Dare to be different by playing with invitation sizes and shapes. Rectangular cards are standard for wedding invitations, but you can explore your creativity by choosing
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Black Hills Pioneer | Page 15
tip sheet sending in a response. You will need the final headcount in order to confirm seating arrangements and plan for centerpieces and favors. • Handwrite the envelopes. Your invitation will look more impressive if you address them by hand, rather than printing them off of a computer. If your handwriting is not very neat, consider hiring a professional calligrapher to write out your envelopes. • Make it easy for guests to respond. Be sure to place a stamp on the response card envelope and have that envelope already addressed with your home address so that guests will have no excuses not to mail a response back promptly. • Always order extra. Mistakes happen, and you may need to send out a few extra invitations that you hadn’t originally counted. Always order extra invitations just to be on the safe side. And don’t forget you will probably want to keep one as a keepsake for yourself.
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Weddings
Page 16 | Black Hills Pioneer
November 2014
When buying a diamond ring, learn the 4 C’s carat, clarity, color & cut
By BETH J. HARPAZ Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — Buying a diamond ring can be intimidating. What do you look for? How much should you pay? Demystify the process by learning about the four C’s: carat, color, clarity and cut. This system of grading diamonds was developed 60 years ago by the Gemological Institute of America. Then do some research online and visit jewelers. You’ll soon understand your options. Here’s a primer on the four C’s and other advice.
THE FOUR C’s
• Carat is a weight measurement. A 1-carat diamond weighs 200 milligrams. But there’s no ideal size for a diamond. It depends on your budget and taste. Some women want a big rock; others prefer a delicate, less blingy look. Small diamonds are cheaper than large diamonds. A ring with three small diamonds totaling 1 carat costs less than a single 1-carat stone of similar quality. • Color is graded by letter, starting with D for rare, colorless diamonds. E and F are considered excellent, but G or H diamonds will look just as good to the naked eye. Farther down the scale, you’ll notice differences. “If you put a K color beside a G color, you’ll notice more yellow in the K,” said Russell Shor, senior industry analyst for the Gemological Institute. • Clarity measures diamond flaws, called inclusions, which might appear as tiny spots, clouds or cavities in the stone. The clarity grade SI stands for “slightly included.” VS is a better grade, “very slightly included.” VVS is even higher, “very, very slightly included.” Most inclusions in the VVS-SI range cannot be seen by the untrained eye “unless someone tells you where it is,” Shor said. • Cut measures workmanship, rather than a diamond’s inherent qualities. The way a stone is cut enhances sparkle and luminosity and can hide flaws. The best cut rating, ide-
Photo Courtesy: Watson Photography
al, is rare. About a third of diamonds are rated fair, good or very good.
THE FORMULA
What should you look for in each of the C’s? “The one thing you should not trade off on is the quality of the cut,” said Shor. “Even a nice color stone, if not well-cut, will be dull and lifeless. But if it’s a middle color — like K — and it’s got a real excellent cut, it will pop and flash with all the sparkle that diamonds are famous for.” After choosing the cut, “balance the color, clarity and carat weight based on your personal preference to find the best diamond for you and your budget,” said Amanda Gizzi, spokeswoman for Jewelers of America. For example, for $2,000, you might pick a 1-carat, K-color stone with a slight inclusion, or a half-carat, G-color, with a very slight inclusion. An L or M-colored diamond
at that price “will get you a 2-carat honker, but you’ll definitely notice the yellow and you’ll see some inclusions,” said Shor. Consumers pay $3,500 on average for engagement rings, according to Jewelers of America. On the low end, Shor recommends spending at least $700 to $1,000 to get “something that’s not too small and of reasonable quality, a respectable half-carat stone.” Many websites list the four C’s for every ring they sell. Brick-and-mortar stores should be able to provide grading reports, whether from GIA or another expert lab.
SHAPE AND STYLE
Engagement rings traditionally feature gold bands with a center diamond, though some have smaller diamonds on either side. Melissa Colgan, senior style editor for Martha Stewart Weddings, says the engage
wedding day kit
Pack an emergency
B
rides- and groomsto-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. 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 • 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/clipper • straws (to sip drinks without ruining lipstick) • safety pins • black socks • earring backs
Weddings
November 2014
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 17
Hiring the
Perfect Vendors T
he options can be overwhelming. From DJs and flower shops, to caterers and photographers, it takes a lot to coordinate the long list of services to ensure your wedding goes off without a hitch. And finding the right fits will require more than simply choosing a few names out of a phone book. Consider the vendor selection process as a business decision. After all, you are paying these companies a lot of money for their services. Their performance must be great not only on the day of your wedding, but also in the months and weeks leading up to it. Follow these steps to find the perfect vendors for all of your needs so you can focus on what’s really important about your special day – you.
DUE DILIGENCE
As with any business decision, due diligence is key to making a smart investment. And that’s exactly what your vendor is. So, before handing over a deposit check to your wedding DJ or venue, do a little
research on the front end. Interview several wedding vendors in all key categories – food, drinks, photos, music, venue and even planning if you are working with a consultant. Have key questions ready for your interviews and take notes throughout the process on the pros and cons of each service. Then work with your future spouse to go through the notes and choose the perfect fit for your needs.
BE REALISTIC
Vendors realize this is your wedding and are usually willing to work with whatever special request you may have. But be realistic – and nice. Just because you are paying a vendor doesn’t mean they deserve to be treated like an underappreciated employee. We’ve all seen the shows on TV depicting some bridesto-be as highly stressed, extremely moody and downright mean. Don’t be that bride. Communicate often with your vendors to make sure they are on track with your goals and treat them as a business partner working side-by-side with you to knock your wedding out of the park. Photo Courtesy: FOTOLIA
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Page 18 | Black Hills Pioneer
Emergency Y
Weddings
November 2014
bridal gown care
ou’re having a great time dancing the night away with your friends, family and newly declared spouse – and then it happens. You rip your dress or spill something on it, leaving you panicked and frantically looking for a solution to repair the gown of your dreams. And with the average dress costing brides more than $1,000, according to the Association of Bridal Consultants, this can be a downright expensive disaster. But just like with any clothing malfunction, a dress mishap can be resolved. Deciding how to fix your issue comes down to understanding your gown’s fabric and being prepared for emergency situations. Your bridal shop consultant will likely advise you on the fiber content of your dress and what actions you should take when dealing with a spill or rip. Your gown will also come equipped with a care label that can help walk you through an effective cleanup.
SPILLS: LEAVE THEM ALONE
Unless the spill is making you uncomfortable or embarrassed, the Association of Wedding Gown Specialists urges you to leave it alone, because more damage can actually be done during a hasty repair than by a clear-headed approach in the days following your wedding. You may also elect to seek professional cleaning help for serious stains. If you do decide to treat the spot yourself, club soda can be an effective tool, as can simple cool water. The Association of Wedding Gown Specialists warns against using water on silk and rayon velvets, because they are water-sensitive and may incur permanent water spots.
Perfect
The
SAFETY PINS
© Fotolia / AP
Spills aren’t the only emergencies that can happen during a wedding. Rips, broken zippers and torn straps also can lead to major issues. Throughout your special day, your gown is likely to be stepped on or caught on something, leaving a fabric rip in the process. Safety pins to the rescue. Many full-service bridal shops will place several safety pins into the underside of your gown -especially for these accidents. If not, fasten a few yourself or have a fresh supply of sticky tape or even staples. Always be careful not to damage your gown further during the fix, especially if you have hopes of one day passing your gown down to one of your children.
bridal shower B
ridal shower events can range from informal get-togethers at a local restaurant to a fancy shindig at an upscale resort. If your friends will be planning your shower, be sure to offer up a few ideas if asked. If you give them some general direction of how you would like the party to play out, then they will be more likely to plan the perfect party.
LOOK YOUR BEST
Don’t forget to wear your shiny new engagement ring to your shower, as well as any party dress or accessories that will help you stick out from the crowd. You will naturally be the center of attention at your bridal shower, so it is a good idea to be stylish and sleek. You want parting guests to be talking about your outfit and natural glow.
IT’S YOUR PARTY… BUT NO CRYING
Nothing will rack up “bride-zilla” points quicker than someone throwing a fit over the shower her friends planned for her. If you give your friends the green light, then you should be ready for anything. This means being willing to go with the flow if they have a few surprises to throw your way. Even if you are less than impressed with certain aspects of your party – or who makes it onto the invite list – just remember how much work your friends put into planning a special night for your big celebration.
ASK FOR ADVICE
© Fotolia / AP
If your friends ask you for any input during the party planning phase, be sure to mention the idea of gathering advice, especially from female guests who have been married for long periods of time. Guests can be pre-mailed a blank recipe card or advice sheet and be asked to bring the completed documents to the shower. It’s always a good idea to listen to and respect your elders, especially ones who have found happiness and longevity in their marriages.
November 2014
S
Tips
for delivering a wedding speech
peeches are among the highlights of a wedding reception, so it’s important to get them right. The key speeches are usually delivered by the groom, best man and the bride’s father, and each has a slightly different function. Speeches are usually a mixture of humor, sentiment, compliments and messages of thanks.
RELAX
It’s natural to be nervous before delivering a wedding speech, and even those used to public speaking will experience anxiety. Keeping things simple is one of the key tips for delivering a wedding speech. Take deep breaths to calm your nerves, and speak loudly and clearly so that all the guests can hear you. If using a microphone, make sure you know how to operate it before standing to deliver your speech. Any comedy moments should be intentional, with guests laughing with you and not at you!
PREPARE
Writing a wedding speech can be daunting. Research, preparation and planning are the keys to success. Begin preparing the speech weeks before the wedding day, and don’t get caught out at the last moment. Every speaker should have several stories and anecdotes to share, so begin researching these well in advance. Always consider the audience you will
Weddings
Black Hills Pioneer | Page 19
be speaking to, and make sure all material is relevant and of interest. Never set out to embarrass or offend anyone.
TIME IT
Once you have some stories to share, write them out and time how long it takes to read them. If you are a confident speaker, 10 minutes is a good time aim for to deliver the whole speech. If you want to be brief, three to five minutes is acceptable. One of the worst mistakes is to speak for too long, and lose the interest of your audience.
With pictures you’ll keep forever, don’t overlook one of the
CONSIDER PROPS
Props can bring additional interest to a wedding speech. A slideshow of photographs can be highly entertaining. For example, showing photographs of the bride and groom as babies and children is always very well received. Remember the boundaries of good taste, and do not show photographs which may offend.
STAY FOCUSED
Keeping a clear head is essential when delivering a wedding speech. Weddings generally involve alcohol, and it’s important not to partake too early. Drinking before delivering a speech is one of the worst mistakes you can make, and it’s something that will be remembered for years to come. If you follow these tips, you should be confident in delivering an entertaining speech to be proud of.
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Weddings
Page 20 | Black Hills Pioneer
November 2014
Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, 10am-5pm Spearfish Convention Center, I-90 Exit 14, Spearfish Bridal Style Show: 2pm
All dresses available for try on before and after the syle show.
Admission: $2.00 at the door
Great Vegas Getaway for 2! Many more door prizes!
*Some restrictions may apply. Must be present to win.
Vendors to meet all your needs! 2 Sisters Bakery Anythings Possible Catering Black Hills Receptions and Rentals Black Hills Video Blackwell Budget Bridal Bliss Bridal Bloomers Flowers and Gifts Boulder Canyon Limo Bridal Boutique Cheyenne Crossing Catering Chloe & Isablel Colt 45 Entertainment Comfort Suites Hotel and Convention Center Rapid City Complete Creative by Me - Custom Paper Products Crown Formalwear Deadwood History Diamond 7 Bar Guest Ranch Edible Memories
Holiday Inn Express and Convention Center - Sturgis Homestake Chop House Homestake Mansion Jim’s Formalwear Johnny Sundby Photography Ken Petersen - Milestones Entertainment Legacy Photo and Design Mary Kay - Robin Arsaga Mr. Penguin Formalwear Party on Productions Passion Parties Photo Booth of the Northern Hills Powerhouse DJ Rent-A-Chef Catering Ryan Becker Photography Shade Valley Camp Resort Table 4 Decor Watson Photography and many more!
For additional information or questions on showtimes, call 605-722-5100 and like us on Facebook at Black Hills Bridal Fair.
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