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Hello Again, Dear Readers,
Welcome to the 35th issue of Quincy Area Bridal Magazine! While this issue is smaller, it still comes with inspiration, love stories, and valuable insights to help you on your wedding journey.
We continue our tradition of celebrating love by featuring wonderful Local Love stories and exciting new engagements, showcasing the beauty of the Quincy area’s wedding community. Alongside these stories, we explore some of the most pressing topics for today’s couples. Navigating Wedding Etiquette: A Guide for Modern Couples provides thoughtful advice on balancing tradition with personal style. Tech-Savvy Weddings: Incorporating Innovation into Your Special Day discusses how digital tools and creative technology can enhance your wedding experience. With the Rising Costs of Weddings: An In-Depth Look, we analyze the financial aspects of wedding planning, offering insights to help couples make informed decisions.
And speaking of wedding planning, we’re thrilled to invite you to our 10th Annual Quincy Area Bridal Magazine Wedding Expo on February 22, 2025! Yes, it’s one week from when this issue was published. But there is still time to get your tickets! This year’s event brings together the best local vendors to help you plan your dream
wedding. From venues and florists to photographers and caterers, you’ll find everything you need in one place. Plus, don’t miss the chance to grab one of our exclusive V.I.B (Very Important Bride) and V.I.G (Very Important Groom) bags, packed with extra goodies to make your experience even more special.
No matter where you are in your wedding-planning journey, we hope this issue inspires, guides, and reminds you that your love story is uniquely yours to celebrate.
Thank you for letting Quincy Area Bridal Magazine be part of your special moments. Happy planning, and we’ll see you at the expo!
Brandy Owens Editor in Chief info@qabmagazine.com
letter
editors
Jennifer + Logan
Jordan + Dakota
Katie + Brady
Tori + Joseph
Kaitlin + Layton
Navigating Wedding Etiquette: A Guide for Modern Couples
Tech-Savvy Weddings: Incorporating Innovation into Your Special Day
The Rising Costs of Weddings: An In-Depth Look
How to be Featured in QAB
Jennifer + Logan
An August Wedding
LocalLove
fromJennifer
We fell in love very quick and knew from the beginning we would get married! It was an instant love, the type where you know right away!
I wanted our big day captured perfectly and Addie Elizabeth photography did just that! We are so lucky to have great photos to look back on for the rest of our life!
Local Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHER: ADDIE ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY
LocalLove
Jordan + Dakota
fromJordan
Dakota and I got married on a beautiful October day surrounded by all of our friends and family! It was the most perfect day and I wouldn’t change a single thing!
Local Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHER: HAILEY NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
VENUE: IRON GATE ESTATE
CONTENT CREATOR: DREAMY DEETS
DJ: NICHOLAS’ WEDDING DJ SERVICE
MAKEUP: KNOCKOUT BEAUTY
HAIR: SALON 96
DRESS: VOWS BRIDAL
SUIT RENTAL: SAVVI FORMALWEAR
CAKE: KRISTEN YARGUS
Katie + Brady
A September Wedding
LocalLove
fromKatie
Our love story started in high school and little did we know, we were about to find the one person who would always have our back, make us laugh, and fill our lives with love.
One of the most special moments of the day was when my grandfather, who has always been a guiding figure in my life, stood as our officiant. Having him there to marry us felt like such a beautiful full-circle moment, and it made our ceremony even more meaningful.
Another highlight was having our daughter as our mini bride—her innocent joy and the way she radiated love as she walked down the aisle made the day even more perfect. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day, and it’s a memory we’ll cherish forever.
Local Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHY: ADDIE ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY
DJ: TAPPE BROTHERS SOUND & MUSIC
HAIR/MAKEUP: OLD MONROE SALON
Navigating Wedding Etiquette: A Guide for Modern Couples
Weddings are a beautiful celebration of love, bringing together family and friends to share in a couple’s joy. However, navigating wedding etiquette can feel overwhelming with so many traditions, expectations, and evolving social norms. Whether you’re the bride, groom, or a guest, understanding the basics of wedding etiquette can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Invitations and RSVPs
One of the first steps in wedding planning is sending invitations. Traditionally, invitations are sent six to eight weeks before the wedding, allowing guests ample time to respond. For destination weddings, it is ideal to send them at least three months in advance. Couples should provide clear RSVP instructions, including a response deadline, usually two to three weeks before the big day.
Guests, on the other hand, should RSVP as soon as possible. Ignoring an RSVP request can create unnecessary stress for the couple. If you receive a “plus one,” ensure you bring a guest who fits the event’s atmosphere and respect the couple’s wishes if the invitation is for you alone.
Who Pays for What?
Traditionally, the bride’s family covered most wedding expenses, but modern
weddings have shifted toward shared financial responsibility. Many couples contribute significantly or cover all costs themselves. It’s essential to have an open discussion with both families early on to establish who will contribute and to what extent. Whether one side or both are helping, gratitude and transparency go a long way in avoiding misunderstandings.
Attire Expectations
Dress codes vary by wedding style and venue. The invitation often provides guidance on whether the attire is black-tie, semi-formal, or casual. If uncertain, guests should err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed. Avoid wearing white (unless explicitly requested by the couple) and opt for colors and styles that align with the wedding’s theme.
Bridesmaids and groomsmen should adhere to the couple’s chosen attire but can communicate concerns about budget or comfort in advance. Many couples now consider these factors, offering flexible options or covering some costs for their wedding party.
Gifting Etiquette
Gift-giving is a longstanding wedding tradition, but expectations can vary. A good rule of thumb is to give a gift that reflects your relationship with the couple and fits within your budget. If they have a registry, choosing from it ensures you’re giving something they
genuinely want. If attending a destination wedding, some couples understand if guests prioritize travel expenses over an extravagant gift.
If you can’t attend, sending a gift is thoughtful but not mandatory. Writing a heartfelt card and expressing your best wishes are always appreciated.
Social Media Do’s and Don’ts
Social media plays a significant role in weddings in today’s digital age. Couples should decide their stance on posting early, whether they encourage guests to share moments or prefer a phone-free ceremony. Including a note on the invitation or signage at the venue can clarify their preferences.
Guests should be mindful of what they post. They should avoid sharing photos of the couple before they do, and they should respect any requests for privacy. If a wedding hashtag is provided, use it to help the couple collect shared memories in one place.
Ceremony and Reception Etiquette
Arriving on time is crucial. Guests should plan to be seated at least 15 minutes before
the ceremony begins. If you arrive late, enter quietly and take the nearest available seat without disrupting the proceedings.
It’s customary to follow seating assignments and meal choices as arranged during the reception. Be respectful during toasts and speeches—this means listening attentively and refraining from loud conversations. When it comes to the dance floor, allow the couple their first dance before joining in.
Thank You Notes
Expressing gratitude is a vital part of wedding etiquette. Couples should send thankyou notes to guests, vendors, and anyone who played a special role in their big day. A handwritten note within three months of the wedding is ideal, as it shows appreciation for the time, effort, and gifts received.
While wedding etiquette has evolved, the core principles remain the same—respect, gratitude, and consideration for others. Whether planning a wedding or attending as a guest, these guidelines ensure a joyful and memorable occasion for all involved.
Engagements
fromTori
Joe and I met on the river about 6 years ago. Even though we only went to high school 20 minutes apart, fate just wasn’t ready for us to meet.
In 2018, fate brought us together. Our parents are good friends, so we ended up being on the river together one day. Joe liked Tori a little more than Tori liked him, but a few months of talking, everything changed. 5 years later we took a trip to Chicago for Christmas and that is where Joe got down on one knee. The rest is History!
Photos by: E. Three Photography
Engagements
fromKaitlin
After six years of being together, my fiancé, Layton proposed May 19, 2024. Layton surprised me by planning a party with all of our closest family and friends in attendance before surprising me with the most beautiful ring I’d ever seen. We are so excited for our big day to finally come and to celebrate each other now and forever!
Photos by: Jordyn Crowe
Tech-Savvy Weddings:
Incorporating
Innovation into Your Special Day
Weddings have long been a tradition-rich celebration, but with the rapid advancements in technology, modern couples are finding innovative ways to make their big day unique, efficient, and memorable. Here are some of the latest tech trends transforming weddings, along with tips on how to seamlessly integrate them into your celebration.
1. Live Streaming for Remote Guests
Not everyone on your guest list can always attend in person, but live streaming ensures they don’t miss out. Platforms like Zoom, YouTube Live, or private streaming services can broadcast your ceremony and even parts of the reception to loved ones across the globe. Investing in professional videography services that offer live-streaming options can ensure high-quality production.
2. Customized Wedding Apps
Wedding apps have become a staple for tech-savvy couples. These apps can include event schedules, maps, RSVP tracking, and even digital guest books. Platforms like Appy Couple and Joy allow you to design a personalized app for your big day, ensuring that all your wedding information is conveniently in one place for your guests.
3. Drones for Breathtaking Photos and Videos
Drones offer a new perspective for capturing your wedding. Whether it’s an aerial shot of your outdoor ceremony, a dramatic view of your venue, or a bird’s-eye angle of your first kiss, drones can elevate your wedding album. Just be sure to hire a professional operator aware of local regulations and ensures safety.
4. Interactive Photo Booths
Modern photo booths have augmented reality (AR) features, green screens, and even GIF-making capabilities. These booths can instantly share photos on social media or print them for guests to take home. Some couples also use hashtag printers, which automatically print photos tagged with their custom wedding hashtag on social media.
5. Virtual and Augmented Reality
Want to relive the magic before the day even happens? Virtual reality (VR) technology allows couples to take virtual tours of venues or even try on wedding attire digitally. On the big day, AR elements can be incorporated into programs or decorations, adding an interactive layer for tech-loving guests.
6. Digital Invitations and E-Save-the-Dates
Paperless Post and Greenvelope are popular platforms for creating elegant, eco-friendly digital invitations. These services can also track RSVPs and send reminders, making planning easier for you and your guests.
7. Smart Wedding Registries
Gone are the days of bulky gift lists at department stores. Today, couples can create online registries that combine experiences, contributions to a honeymoon fund, and traditional gifts in one place. Websites like Zola and Honeyfund are popular choices for modern registries.
8. Wearable Tech
Wearable tech can be a fun addition for fitness enthusiasts or data lovers. Brides and grooms are incorporating devices like smartwatches to track steps taken down the aisle or monitor heart rates during the ceremony. These stats can be a fun keepsake to look back on.
9. AI and Chatbots for Planning Assistance
Artificial intelligence is making waves in wedding planning. Chatbots can help answer guest questions about schedules or dietary preferences, while AI tools can assist in designing invitations, seating charts, and even curating playlists tailored to your taste.
10. Lighting and Special Effects
Modern lighting systems can create an ambiance that changes throughout your event. For example, smart LED lights can adjust to different colors during the ceremony, dinner, and dancing. Cold spark fountains, which are safe for indoor use, can add a dramatic flair to your first dance or cake cutting.
Tips for Incorporating Tech Seamlessly
1. Set a Budget: Technology can be a significant investment, so prioritize what matters most to you.
2. Test Everything: Ensure all tech elements are tested well in advance to avoid glitches on the big day.
3. Balance Tradition and Tech: Keep meaningful traditions alive while embracing innovation to ensure your wedding feels personal.
4. Hire Professionals:
Whether for drones, live streaming, or special effects, working with experienced vendors ensures quality and reliability.
By thoughtfully integrating technology, you can create a modern wedding experience that reflects your personality as a couple. Whether through high-tech entertainment or convenient planning tools, a tech-savvy wedding can elevate your celebration to new heights.
The Rising Costs of Weddings: An In-Depth Look
Weddings have long been significant, often celebrated with grandeur and splendor. However, over the past few decades, the cost of hosting a wedding has surged dramatically. This article explores the factors contributing to the rising costs of weddings and provides insight into why couples today are spending more than ever before to say “I do.”
1. Inflation and Economic Factors
One of the primary reasons for the increase in wedding costs is general inflation. The cost of goods and services has risen, and weddings are no exception. From food and beverages to venue rentals and floral arrangements, every aspect of a wedding is subject to the effects of inflation.
2. Higher Expectations and Customization
Today’s couples often have higher expectations for their weddings compared to previous generations. Influenced by social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, brides and grooms are looking for unique, picture-perfect weddings that reflect their personal style. This desire for customization leads to higher costs as couples opt for bespoke decorations, designer dresses, and personalized experiences for their guests.
3. Venue and Vendor Costs
The cost of wedding venues has risen significantly. Popular venues, especially those in prime locations, charge a premium for their services. Additionally, the demand for high-quality vendors—such as photographers, caterers, and florists—has increased. These vendors often charge more as their services become more sought after and as they strive to keep up with industry standards.
4. Guest Experience
Modern weddings are not just about the couple; they are also about providing a memorable experience for the guests. This has led to increased expenses related to entertainment, guest favors, and accommodations. Live bands, DJs, photo booths, and elaborate guest gifts add to the overall cost of the wedding.
5. Technological Integration
Technology has become an integral part of weddings, as you might have read in our article in this issue, Tech-Savvy Weddings: Incorporating Innovation into Your Special Day. From professional videography and live streaming services to elaborate lighting and sound systems, incorporating advanced technology into weddings adds a substan-
tial cost. Couples want to capture every moment perfectly and share it with those who cannot attend in person, which often requires hiring specialized services.
6. Destination Weddings
The trend of destination weddings has also contributed to rising costs. While a destination wedding can be a beautiful and unique way to celebrate, it often involves significant travel expenses for both the couple and their guests. Additionally, planning a wedding from afar may require hiring a local wedding planner, which can add to the overall budget.
7. Cultural and Societal Influences
Cultural norms and societal expectations play a role in wedding costs. In many cultures, weddings reflect social status, leading families to spend more to ensure a lavish celebration. Furthermore, the increasing trend of multi-day wedding events, including pre-wedding festivities and post-wedding brunches, contributes to the overall expense.
The rising costs of weddings can be attributed to a combination of economic factors, evolving expectations, and the desire to create a unique and memorable experience. While the financial aspect of weddings can be daunting, it is essential for couples to prioritize their spending and make informed decisions to ensure their special day is both memorable and financially manageable. By understanding the factors driving up costs, couples can better navigate the planning process and find ways to celebrate their love without breaking the bank.
Submit your Wedding your love story in qab magazine
your wedding
Tell us how you met, or what your wedding day was like. Submit your images and your story, your wedding might be featured in the section we call, Local Love
Here’s a list of images we LOVE to see:
details
Your photographer will be very familiar with the term, flatlay. It will include stylized images of the invitation or program and other details like the wedding rings, cuff links or jewelry.
getting ready
We’d love to see the couples getting ready, putting make-up or adding those finishing touches to their tie. It’s always a tear jerker when we see you getting your parents and grandparents involved
pre-ceremony
We love to see that first look and any shots either of you take with your wedding party, before you say, I DO
ceremony
The venue and your entrance is always a favorite, and if your photographer also caught the groom’s reaction, we’d love to see it! The first kiss is always sweet and creative exits from your ceremony space make for lovely full page spreads!
group portraits
We don’t look for too many of these. One or two of the whole wedding party - post ceremony - is plenty. We don’t need every family
shot with each aunt and uncle that jumped in for a pic!
reception
Details of the room help our readers understand the tone and mood of your wedding. Was it wild and vibrant, or soft and elegant. Images of the wedding cake almost ALWAYS make the cut!
Send us a few of the first dances and definitely an exiting exit from the reception ,if you did one - cue the sparklers!
Submit your Engagement
What’s the first thing you should do after you get those engagement photos back? Submit to QAB Magazine, of course. We’d love to help you share your big news AND you’ll be first on the list to call TO SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING! It’s fun way to be featured in a local publication and in our social media channels!
Submit your Marriage
your marriage
Don’t think for one second that you have no place here if you’ve been married for years. We love to feature people who have already been through the planning process in our Let’s Play 20 Questions section of the magazine. Plus, we’d love you to submit your wedding photo and a current photo!
How to Submit on
social
Send us a message on Facebook or Instagram and let us know your interested
on our website
Go the SUBMISSION page of qabmagazine. com and find the way you’d like to be featured.
via
You can email us a photo or two and tell us a bit about yourself, and we’ll reach out for the rest, once we decide to more forward. Email: info@qabmagazine.com
through your vendor
You might get an email from us that says we’d like to feature your wedding. Most likely, one of your vendors was SO proud of the work they did that they submitted to the magazine.
FAQ’s
how much does it cost?
It’s FREE to be featured in any Local Loves, Engagements, and/or 20 Questions!
how long before I know?
We try our best to get back to each couple as soon as possible. Some weddings fit a particular theme better than others, but we will definitely reach out!
can I submit on behalf of someone else?
Sure! We’ve had moms and besties submit in the past, but we will need to reach out to the couple and get their approval first!
