Weddings special section -070313

JULY 2013

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

Thinking Outside the Banquet Hall Options abound with alternative reception sites

Hotel How-To

Things to consider when choosing a hotel for your guests

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3 Warm weather attire for the groom and attendants Wedding dress silhouettes 4 Engagement ring shopping guide 6 Explore options with alternative reception sites 7 Wedding thank-you cards etiquette 8 Don’t overlook importance of wedding day photography 9 Popular songs for the mother-son & father-daughter dances 10 Factors to consider before deciding on a destination wedding How to help guests save on travel 11 Tips for making seating arrangements 12 Things to consider when choosing a hotel for your guests 13 What guests can expect to spend to attend a wedding 14 Planning the rehearsal dinner 15 Centerpiece options abound for couples tying the knot

Theintelligencer.com • July 3, 2013

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and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figures.

A-line Another silhouette very forgiving or appropriate for many body types is the A-line gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase “A.” When in doubt, Aline gowns are classic and sensible and a favorite among brides.

Lightweight wool may be a more comfortable option for grooms and their groomsmen at warm-weather weddings.

Warm weather attire for the groom and attendants

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eddings are a time to get dolled up. Though some gentlemen may be tempted to wear the suit they wear to work, a formal event necessitates something a bit more remarkable. When the weather is warm, some men may scoff at the idea of wearing a full suit or even a tuxedo. But just because a person is wearing pants and a jacket doesn’t mean the suit must be dark and heavy.

Although dark colors are traditional for weddings, dark, heavy fabrics will absorb the sun’s rays, making the groom and his groomsmen uncomfortable. Even when a warm-weather wedding takes place largely indoors where it is climate controlled, many couples choose to have the ceremony outdoors, where they pose for photographs as well. The groom and his groomsmen will want to be comfortable during these times, and the right suit and fabric can make all the difference.

Linen and cotton are all-natural fabrics that are made from plant fibers. They are much lighter weight than wool, and linen and cotton suits may be more comfortable. But linen and cotton are highly prone to wrinkling, and a wrinkled suit will not present well in a formal setting.

Cotton and linen may be best reserved for informal weddings or those that will be taking place outdoors or beachside.

Seersucker suits are made from cot-

ton in a unique weaving pattern that lets air ventilate through the material.

Seersucker suits may be most popular in the southeastern United States, but they can be worn anywhere the weather is warm. Many of these suits are manufactured in a gray, blue and brown striped pattern. Again, due to the lightweight fabric, you will feel cool. For less formal weddings, a seersucker suit may fit.

A khaki suit or a tan one may work better if the wedding is more formal. Ensure the accessories are in place to make this look work. The suit should fit well and be tailored appropriately. Sharp creases in the pants and a crisp shirt and tie can complete the look. If the groomsmen are in coordinating suits, a tan or khaki color will not look out of place. If a full suit still feels too stiff, a nice blazer paired with a complementary colored trouser may be appropriate for a less formal affair.

Some grooms want to err on the side of caution and stick with a classic suit or tuxedo. In such instances, grooms may want to investigate lighter weight wools.

Such suits won’t be as confining as a heavier suit. Grooms wearing a tuxedo may want to choose a white tuxedo. A white tuxedo will look pristine and fit with a formal theme. And the white will reflect the sun and be cooler without looking casual.

A groom who does not mind a midday wardrobe change can opt to wear a standard suit or tuxedo and plan to change later on for the reception. He can coordinate with his new bride and step into something more comfortable for dancing and enjoying the ensuing party. This allows for formality when the moments call for it and comfort later on in the day.

Dressing for a warm weather wedding may require a bit of ingenuity on the part of the groom. There are different fabrics and styles of suit available to present plenty of wardrobe options.

Trumpet

Wedding dress silhouettes

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Women who prefer something a little more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.

Mermaid A bit more fitted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.

Modified A-line

ew wardrobe decisions are scrutinized as much as a bride-to-be’s choice of wedding gown. Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future bride’s figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides.

A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs.

This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.

The Bridal Association of America estimates a bride-to-be will spend between $1,500 and $2,000 total on her gown, veil and accessories. Brides often spend

Tea length

months, if not years, shoping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what flatters certain body types. After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married. Here is a look of some of the common types of gown silhouettes and why choosing this shape might be right for you.

Ballgown A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses.

With a fitted bodice and full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically poofed-up by crinoline

Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.

Sheath Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette.

The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success.

Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is a good idea to try on a number of different silhouettes to find the one that is most flattering.

Bridal salon employees are usually wellversed in matching body type to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting a dress.

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Engagement ring shopping guide

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ong before couples stand before an officiant and say, “I do,� many make another pledge to each other by getting engaged and agreeing to begin a new life together.

In a 2011 survey by from XO Group, Inc., formerly The Knot Inc., the average engagement ring costs Americans $5,200. Canadians spend around $5,000 as well. Considering an engagement ring is typically a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, many men say the high cost is warranted and are even willing to finance the purchase or push their budgets to procure a beautiful ring.

the value, quality and beauty of a diamond. The 4 Cs stand for cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The cut refers to the shape of the stone as well as the skill involved in achieving the shape of the facets so that it reflects the light brilliantly. The color is designated by the International Gemological Institute.

The grading color in a diamond determines how closely a diamond’s color approaches colorlessness. The diamond will be assigned a letter grade. The lower the letter in the alphabet, the whiter the stone. Clarity refers to the amount, size, type, and location of internal flaws in a diamond, also known as inclusions. The cost of the diamond increases when there are fewer inclusions in the stone.

Finally, the carat weight is the size and weight of the stone. The larger the stone, the more pricey it can be.

Many engagement rings feature a 1carat center stone with some smaller stones surrounding, accounting for a 1.4 total carat weight on average. It can take a groom-to-be around three months to find his (and her) ideal ring, sometimes longer. Considering a ring is such a significant investment, it pays to have some knowledge in gem selection.

Another question to ask is which style of ring your girlfriend prefers? Your fiancĂŠeto-be may have a certain setting style and diamond shape preference. It pays to know what she wants, including the type of setting the stone will be encased in. You should also know whether she will be happy with a larger stone that may have some imperfections not easily seen to the naked eye or a smaller, flawless stone.

Start by answering a few questions

Know your budget

Having an idea of what you want can help anyone get a better deal, whether one is shopping for a new sofa or an engagement ring. An informed shopper can avoid being taken advantage of or buying something that really isn’t worth the asking price.

Many expenses are associated with planning a wedding, and some couples may not want to begin their lives together in debt. This may need to be factored in to the decision-making process. You should go to jewelry stores to price out different styles and see how diamonds compare.

This way you will have an accurate idea of just how much rings cost.

The 4 Cs is a good place for shoppers to get started. Various attributes affect

Theintelligencer.com • July 3, 2013 Carefully consider your options. Having an intimate knowledge of what your girlfriend will want can help you to narrow down something that is reasonable.

It also pays to understand a jeweler’s return policy. Even if you may know what she likes, in the event that the ring doesn’t work out, find out if the style can be changed or if you can get a refund or make an exchange.

Other tips for savings success There are ways to maximize your budget and still end up with a beautiful stone.

• Ask for a stone that is slightly less than the next carat, for example 0.9 instead of one carat. This nearly indiscernible difference can add up to substantial savings.

Experts say the price difference between a 1.90 carat diamond and a 2.0 carat diamond can be as much as $5,000.

Also, choose a stone that has more surface area, which will make it appear larger even if it does not have as much sparkle.

• If she prefers the look of platinum, realize white gold, silver or tungsten are more affordable options and will still give off that silvery hue she desires. Mixed gold colors, including white, pink and yellow, can be unique.

• Try to buy a loose diamond. You can inspect the entire stone and then shop around for an acceptable setting. This can save you money in the long run by buying the ring elements separately.

• Get a part-time job at a jewelry store.

This way you may be eligible for an employee discount and can put the savings toward the ring.

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• Don’t shy away from a warehouse store for a good deal on rings. As long as the diamond is to your liking and follows the requirements of the 4 Cs that you desire, it should not matter where the ring was purchased.

• Make sure the store is accredited by the Jewelers of America or is a member of the Gemological Institute of America.

This way you know you are buying from a reputable source and the diamonds were acquired ethically.

• Negotiate the price. Just because it is jewelry doesn’t mean you can’t comparison shop and find out if another jeweler will match a competitor’s offer. Many stores will be willing to negotiate if it means making a sale.

An engagement ring is a large purchase that requires ample forethought.

Following some guidelines can yield the results couples desire.

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Explore options with alternative reception sites

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wedding can be an expensive endeavor for couples. The cost for a reception venue will vary depending on where the party is held, so couples looking to conserve cash or simply set their party apart can consider some different options.

Instead of booking with the first catering hall they find, couples should comparison shop to find a venue they find affordable and unique to their particular tastes.

A reception venue may charge from less than $100 to several hundred dollars per guest. Couples who opt to do some of the work themselves by renting a space and bringing in their own food or using a private caterer may save a substantial amount of money. In addition, couples who don’t mind forgoing a more traditional setting may find more unique locations to hold their reception.

• Farmhouse: For that country appeal, a barn or farmhouse estate can make for the ideal place to hold a casual wedding reception. Farms are typically located on a large piece of land that can easily accommodate a number of guests.

• Botanical gardens: Enjoy the peak foliage of whatever season you are enjoying at the botanical gardens nearest to you. Many gardens offer some sort of wedding package and may contract with an outside caterer to provide everything from sit-down meals to passed appetizers. Couples looking for one-stop-shopping can also combine the ceremony and reception at the gardens for a magical experience amid flowers, trees and more.

• Sports arena: Sports fans may dream of having their wedding on the field of their favorite professional team.

Individuals can contact the stadium to find out if they do any private parties. If not, consider a stadium on a more local level, such as a college or high school field.

The ambience will be the same, but the more local or smaller venue may be more affordable.

• Oceanside: Where there is a beach, there is the opportunity to have a wedding at the seashore. Beach weddings are usually casual affairs, and couples could have more leeway with regard to food and drinks.

• Clubhouse: For those who live in a condominium or a community managed by a homeowner’s association, there may be a clubhouse on the premises. Very often these clubhouses can be rented out for parties. Couples interested in an intimate

affair can bring in their own food and have a low-cost reception close to home.

• Castle or estate: Dreaming of a fairy tale wedding? A historical building may make for the perfect backdrop. Certain historical societies may rent out estates and other buildings for weddings. At the very least, couples may be able to have their wedding on the grounds with the impressive home in the background.

• Boat: Dinner cruises frequently depart during peak sightseeing seasons from various locations on the coast. Couples may opt to have their reception aboard a paddle boat or larger cruise liner, and the cost may be on par with a stationary reception venue.

their options when a more traditional venue is not necessarily their style.

• Amusement park: If you want to get hitched at a favorite amusement park, speak with guest services to determine if they have any accommodations for weddings. Thrill seekers may want to tie the knot and then take a ride on a hair-raising roller coaster. Guests can dine on traditional foods and a mix of carnival treats.

at home. Pot luck food and donations of other treats from family members can keep costs down without compromising on the fun factor.

• At home: Couples who really want to save money can opt to get married right

Various reception venues can make for a memorable wedding. Couples can explore

Theintelligencer.com • July 3, 2013

Wedding thank-you cards etiquette

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eddings and gifts go hand-inhand. Couples who are tying the knot can expect to receive scores of gifts, ranging from simple well-wishes to cash to items listed on their registries.

Because gift-giving is tradition, couples should plan on spending some time writing thank-you notes to express gratitude to the people who were kind enough to give a gift.

Contrary to popular belief, couples do not have a year’s grace period to mail out thank-you notes after the gift has been received or the wedding has taken place.

According to the etiquette experts at The Emily Post Institute, all thank-you cards should be written and mailed within three months of receipt of a gift. It is preferable that the thank-you be written directly after receipt of the gift, but time-strapped couples may not have the opportunity to do so.

However, writing a few thank-you cards every few days can alleviate having a giant pile to do later on.

Many couples prefer to order thank-you stationery when they order their wedding invi-

Here are some other guidelines to follow.

• Mail out a handwritten note to each and every person being thanked.

• Do not use form letters or preprinted cards to which you simply add your signature.

• Be sincere in your messages and try to mention the gift and what it will be used for.

• Promptly respond to

tations. This way the paper, font and style match the original invitations. In addition, it may be less expensive to order stationery as a package.

In some cases, a photography package may include thank-you notes with walletsized photos to include. Couples can then mail out a nice sentiment with a photo from the wedding. To keep with the etiquette time frame of thank-you notes, it is important to find out when the thank-you photos and cards will arrive first from the photographer. The thank-you sentiments should not be delayed by the photographer.

For those interested in less expensive options, preprinted thank-you cards can be purchased at a stationery store. There are many designs and price points available.

Remember, it is not the card itself, but the thank-you that is important.

As to the rules regarding those getting a thank-you, it is just about anyone who contributed in some part to the wedding, even if a verbal thanks was already offered.

Anyone who provided an engagement, shower or wedding gift, those who gave gifts of money, anyone who hosted a party or shower, attendants in the wedding, people who may have housed wedding guests, parents of the bride and groom, suppliers and vendors, and employers who have wished couples well should all be included on the thank-you list.

gifts that were received through the mail so the giver knows they arrived.

• Never mention that you plan to return a gift or exchange it.

• Mentioning the amount of a monetary gift is optional, but it does confirm to the giver that the right amount was received.

• A mass thank-you

posted on social media is not adequate.

• Even if you are late with writing out thankyou notes, that doesn’t exclude you from doing so.

By adhering to thankyou card etiquette, couples will ensure their guests know that gifts and efforts to make the wedding special were appreciated.

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July 3, 2013 • theintelligencer.com having photos snapped by loving friends and family, professional wedding photography is an ideal way to immortalize this special day. Most couples say “I do” with the hopes of staying together forever, giving them only one chance to capture the magic of the wedding day on film. Leaving photos to chance by hiring an amateur photographer may be something couples regret down the road.

A professional photographer will provide the expertise needed to produce beautiful wedding photos.

Don’t overlook importance of wedding day photography

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imousines, gowns and flowers are each important components of a couple’s wedding day. But few aspects of a wedding are as important as photography.

Thanks to the popularity of social media, some couples may overlook the importance of hiring a professional photographer for

their weddings. Although there is something to be said for candid images captured on phones and personal cameras, the pictures a couple will cherish and look back on for decades are best supplied by a professional photographer.

Even if you will be hiring a videographer and

Professional photographers use high-quality equipment that will produce much better results than photos snapped on the average digital camera. Plus, the photographer has experience with posing, placement of arms and legs, head tilting, and lighting, each of which ensures that the photos come out looking as good as possible. While a friend may not notice an eyesore in the rear of a photo composition when taking a picture, a professional may notice something that will stand out and make adjustments.

Furthermore, professional photographers tend to have an eye for interesting angles to capture images that may be overlooked.

Rather than a series of portraits at one level, he or she may climb high for aerial shots or lie on the floor for a different perspective.

The results may be unique vantage points that set your wedding photos apart from those of the masses.

Price alone should not dictate which photographer to hire. Although wedding budgets

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are often stretched, skimping on a photography allotment may result in subpar results.

That doesn’t mean you need to hire the most expensive photographer, but couples should realize the value of experience and professional equipment, both of which tend to come at a premium price. Do not expect to pay package prices that would be offered at department or discount stores. Many photographers are artists who take their work very seriously. A photographer will be spending all day with you capturing hundreds of photos. Each image will then need to be reviewed, repositioned and potentially enhanced or retouched. This time-consuming attention to detail is often what dictates the higher costs of a very good photographer.

Keep in mind that photographers are unique individuals and not all the visions and styles of particular artists will meld with your own perception of how you want the wedding to look. Expressing your expectations and comparing your goals with the portfolios of photographers will help you find the best fit.

Do not feel shy about asking for testimonials from past customers or talking to couples you know who have recently gotten married and asking for a recommendation.

While couples are making wedding day magic, photographers are behind the scenes capturing all of the memories couples can relive for years and years to come.

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POPULAR SONGS for the motherson dance

for the fatherdaughter dance

Wedding ceremonies and receptions are rife with tradition, and many of those traditions are celebrations of the two families joining together. One of the more popular traditions is the motherson dance during the reception when the mother of the groom gets to shine on the dance floor with her son as guests watch.

Some mother-son combinations choose to go with a more traditional song for their dance, while others prefer to turn up the volume and get down to a more modern song. The following are some popular songs chosen for the mother-son dance.

Many brides anxiously await their opportunity to dance with dear old Dad at their wedding receptions. One of the more beloved wedding traditions, the father-daughter dance is an often touching moment for fathers, new brides and guests alike. Though fathers and their daughters can choose whatever song they’d like for their special dance together, the following are some of the more popular songs for this special event.

“What a Wonderful World” — Louis Armstrong

“My Girl” — The Temptations “Isn’t She Lovely” — Stevie Wonder

“In My Life” — The Beatles “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” — James Taylor “Summer Wind” — Frank Sinatra

“Wonderful Tonight” — Eric Clapton “Have I Told You Lately” — Rod Stewart “Butterfly Kisses” — Bob Carlisle

“Simple Man” — Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Over The Rainbow” — Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

“Forever Young” — Rod Stewart “The Wind Beneath My Wings” — Bette Midler

“You Are So Beautiful” — Joe Cocker

“Child Of Mine” — Carole King “God Only Knows” — The Beach Boys “Blessed” — Elton John

“Unforgettable” — Nat King Cole “Daughters” — John Mayer “Father and Daughter” — Paul Simon

“Just The Way You Are” — Billy Joel “I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song” — Jim Croce “You’ve Got A Friend In Me” — Randy Newman

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Factors to consider before deciding on a destination wedding But as popular as destination weddings may be, there are factors that the bride- and groom-to-be must consider on their way to deciding if a destination wedding is for them.

Affordability Couples with large families tend to look at destination weddings as more affordable than a wedding in their hometown. That’s because destination weddings tend to attract fewer guests, which is fewer mouths to feed at the reception. But a smaller guest list will not necessarily offset the cost of getting married at a seaside resort. Such resorts may have shorter wedding seasons, increasing the competition for the venue and subsequently driving up the price. In addition, the cost of travel to such resorts can prove costly for couples and their guests, especially if the

resort only hosts weddings during the height of its tourist season.

Laws Local laws also must be considered before deciding on a destination wedding. Some locales require couples to establish residency within the town’s limits before they can get married, and the paperwork to get married overseas can be significant. Planning a wedding can be difficult enough without having to do extra work to secure a wedding license. Many couples may find a destination wedding is more difficult than they anticipated.

Resources Remote islands may seem like the ideal place for an intimate wedding, but such locales may not have the same resources as more developed destinations. For

In its 2012 Destination Weddings Study, the XO Group Inc., creator of the popular wedding Web site TheKnot.com, found that nearly 25 percent of all weddings are destination weddings. Couples who want to make their special day even more so are choosing to have their weddings at idyllic destinations or other unique locales that boast special meaning.

example, the reception menu for a wedding in a remote island locale may be far more limited due the difficulty of getting certain foods onto the island while they’re still fresh. In addition, such a locale likely won’t have as many options with regard to vendors, forcing couples to go with less experienced professionals and leaving them at the mercy of local vendors’ rates.

Guests While a small guest list might seem like a great way to save money, couples who come from closely knit families may find a destination wedding excludes many of their guests who simply can’t afford to make the trip.

That can make a couple regret the decision to have a destination wedding later on when they look back on their wedding day and recognize

that so many of their valued friends and family members were unable to attend.

Activities According to the Destination Weddings Study, roughly one-third of couples who choose destination weddings plan a group activity such as sightseeing for their guests, and more than half of those couples pay for the cost of the activity out of their own pockets. Such activities, while fun and a nice gesture for guests who made the trip despite the cost, can have a large impact on a couple’s wedding budget.

Destination weddings continue to be a popular choice for couples tying the knot. But couples must consider more than just cost before deciding if a destination wedding is for them.

How to help guests save on travel

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eddings are typically expensive affairs. Couples may be willing to go the extra mile and stretch their finances for their big day, but what about their guests?

Couples ask much of their out-of-town wedding guests, who must arrange for travel and lodging and possibly even childcare if they are bringing young children.

Because traveling to a wedding can be such a costly expenditure, many couples look for ways to alleviate some of the financial pressure that this travel places on their guests. The following are a few ways couples

can do just that.

from the airport.

• Find an airport-friendly wedding destination.

Couples who can get married within a short distance of a major airport can save their guests a significant amount of money. A major airport has more flights, and that can translate to more options and more affordable flights for your guests. In addition, a wedding destination that is close to an airport reduces the chance that guests will have to pay for rental cars. A cab ride to the hotel might be less expensive than a rental car, which guests may not need aside from getting to and

• Inquire about group airline rates. Couples know to negotiate group hotel rates for their wedding guests, but few may know it’s possible to negotiate group airline rates as well. If a large number of your wedding guests will be traveling from the same city, contact the major airlines to see if they offer group travel discounts.

Many airlines do, so comparison shop to find your guests the best deal.

• Consider a longer engagement. A longer engagement can save your guests money on travel.

Couples who choose to have a longer engagement and send save-the-date cards out early are giving their guests more time to book flights and find deals.

Flights tend to be less expensive when booked well in advance, so a longer engagement gives guests more time to find a flight that’s affordable. In addition, travelers who can book early often get the first crack at the best flight times, saving themselves the nuisance of taking a red-eye flight or traveling early in the morning.

Theintelligencer.com â&#x20AC;˘ July 3, 2013

O

ne of the biggest decisions couples make regarding their wedding receptions concerns where to seat their guests. Many a bride and groom has felt the crunch of compiling responses and then coming up with an acceptable seating arrangement for the reception.

Seating guests is not a task exclusive to brides- and grooms-to-be. Anyone holding a special party, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at a reception hall or a restaurant, must determine seating arrangements.

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Tips for making seating arrangements

When arranging the seating, figure out the head or bridal table. This is one of the easier tables to seat because it is traditionally filled with members of your bridal party and their respective spouses or dates. If your bridal party is especially large, consider flanking your own sweetheart table with two tables for the bridal party on either side.

will be certain the arrangements will be comfortable for everyone.

Before you begin to make seating arrangements, you will need the entire list of people attending the event. Having a final headcount is essential. While you may want to do a seating chart early into the reception planning, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best left until a few weeks before your wedding day, when you know who will and will not be in attendance.

After arranging the bridal table, focus on seating parents and close relatives of the bride and groom next. Many couples prefer to separate their families at the wedding, so the groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family may sit on one side of the room and the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family will sit on the other. This means there will be two parental tables. Consider seating grandparents or other close family members at these tables to ensure they have a place of prominence in the room. This usually means being close to the dance floor to have a good view of all of the festivities. If your parents are divorced or there are any other strained feelings among parents, you can further separate into another table for stepparents, to avoid any unpleasantness or confrontation.

Seating children can be tricky. You may be inclined to seat youngsters at their own table, which is fine if the children are mature enough to handle sitting by themselves.

But young children sitting apart from their parents may be nervous. Furthermore, the parents will continually have to get up and check on the kids. Very young children are best seated alongside their folks.

Many wedding receptions are full of friends and even coworkers of parents whom the couple tying the knot does not even know.

You may need further clarification of their relationships and who gets along before seating them. In fact, ask a parent to take care of arranging their own friends so you

Keep in mind that there is software and even some smartphone apps that make it even easier to make seating arrangements.

Tech-savvy couples may prefer this method to the old-fashioned pencil and paper technique.

Next, know the number of tables you will be alloted in the party space. A catering hall may have a set number of seats that can fit at each table and can usually provide you with a map of the room or a blank seating chart. Many standard reception tables can comfortably seat between eight to 10 people. Squeezing in more people can make for an uncomfortable dining experience.

If you are a visual person, you may benefit from writing guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; names on small pieces of paper and physically moving them around your seating chart, much as you would do if you were trying to arrange furniture on a room layout. Otherwise, write things down as you plan.

A friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; table is usually a mingling of friends or your own coworkers who are of similar ages. A friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; table can make guests who arrived solo feel more comfortable because they can converse with others who are like-minded.

When arranging seating, you also must consider special needsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; individuals who may have mobility issues. Such individuals should be seated near doors and restrooms so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easier for them to get around once the reception hits full swing. Try to accommodate special requests, like not seating the elderly too close to music speakers.

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Things to consider when choosing a hotel for your guests

C

ouples must make a host of decisions when they decide to tie the knot. For those couples having a more traditional wedding, the choice of accommodations for guests is one of the bigger decisions to make, especially if many of your guests will be coming from out of town.

On the surface, finding a hotel for your guests might seem as simple as locating a place that offers the most competitive rate. But while price is important, there are many additional factors couples must consider when choosing a hotel to ensure their guests’ stay is as accommodating as possible.

Location Location is perhaps the foremost factor for couples to consider when finding a hotel for their wedding guests. Though cost is important, the location of the hotel should be weighed more heavily than the nightly rate. A more affordable hotel in the middle of nowhere is far less convenient for guests than spending a few extra dollars per night on a room.

That’s especially true for a wedding with many out-of-town guests who may or may not be renting a vehicle while they are in town. The hotel should be within reasonable proximity to the site of the

ceremony and the reception venue.

Transportation Getting guests to and from your wedding and reception is another factor to consider when choosing accommodations for your guests. A hotel that provides shuttle service to and from the ceremony and reception can be very convenient for guests and the couple, who won’t have to worry about how their guests who won’t be driving will get from the hotel to the venue. Many hotels even provide shuttle service to nearby airports for their guests, which can save guests money on cab fare when the time comes for them to head back home.

Proximity to nightlife While the guests will be partying long after the sun has gone down on the night of your wedding, many will want to hit the town the night before the wedding as well. Weddings have a way of turning into reunions, both for families and friends, and that often makes the night before the wedding just as fun as the wedding reception. When comparing accommodations for your guests, look for a hotel that has nightlife within walking distance. This can range from a hotel with several restaurants nearby to a hotel in the heart of a bustling city home to both restaurants and nightclubs or bars. Many couples tend to spend the night before their wedding enjoying a rehearsal dinner with their parents and members of the bridal party, so finding a hotel that allows guests to enjoy a night on the town without venturing too far from the hotel is a thoughtful gesture your guests are sure to appreciate.

Proximity to other hotels Some hotels will only block off so many rooms per wedding party. So couples with larger guest lists might want to look for a hotel that’s close to other hotels

Theintelligencer.com • July 3, 2013 there is a sea of people excited about celebrating the event.

Getting invited to a wedding is an honor many people are happy to accept. Some do so before they give ample thought to the cost involved in participating in a wedding. Wedding guests can be informed of the costs they should expect upon mailing back their wedding response card.

and establish smaller blocks at various hotels rather than one large block at just one hotel. This gives guests options with regard to their accommodations, and when the hotels are close to one another, it’s still easy for guests to get in touch with friends or family members who are also attending the wedding but might be staying at another hotel.

Cost Though cost should not be the deciding factor when arranging for lodging for your guests, it definitely merits substantial consideration.

That’s even more true if many of your guests will be coming from out of town. Out-of-town guests will have to pay to travel to your wedding, so you should look for a hotel with a reasonable rate to mitigate the costs of that travel.

Guests might not want to stay in a rundown motel, so look for a nice hotel that won’t require guests to extend their finances more than they already will be doing just to get to the wedding.

Couples about to tie the knot should prioritize finding affordable and convenient accommodations for their guests.

What guests can expect to spend to attend a wedding

M

illions of people will attend one or more weddings this year. For every couple ready to say, “I do,”

A lot of attention is often placed on just how much couples spend to have the wedding of their dreams. Little focus is put on the expenses wedding guests will accrue to attend such an affair. According to the

latest American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, guests can anticipate a cost of nearly $540 per wedding.

If a person will be in the wedding party, he or she can expect to pay another $30 to $40 more.

The majority of the money spent when attending a wedding goes toward the gift for the couple.

While many people will select an item from the bride and groom’s registry, many opt to give cash.

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guests will spend an average of $108 on gifts. Factors such as whether the couple is a relative or a close friend will impact how much of a gift is given. If the wedding reception will be held in an opulent location, where it is anticipated the per-head cost for attendees is lofty, guests may opt to gift a little more.

After gifts, wardrobe and travel are other major expenses that wedding guests will need to consider. If the wedding is close by, transportation costs may be minimal. However, if the wedding is across the country or at an international destination, travel expenses will include accommodations, dining out and airline tickets.

Wardrobe will be based on the type of wedding, whether it is a formal occasion or a casual affair. Women can expect to pay $50 and up for a cocktail dress.

Jewelry, accessories and shoes may run another $100 more.

Gentleman who already own a suit may just need to have it dry cleaned and purchase a new tie. A new suit can cost a few hundred dollars, depending on

the designer.

Individuals who are in the wedding can expect to pay around $100 for their gown or tuxedo rental. Women may be responsible for their own hair styling and makeup application. Participation in a bachelor or bachelorette party can cost bridal party members $60 and up, depending on the venue. Elaborate parties may include travel and cost even more.

Parents of children who are not invited to the wedding will have to pay for childcare. Some babysitters charge anywhere from $10 to $15 per hour to watch children. The average wedding reception can run anywhere from four to five hours. That means parents need to budget an additional $50 to $75 in babysitting fees and even more for incidentals to pay for entertainment and meals.

While the couple exchanging vows pays the heftiest price for a wedding, that doesn’t mean wedding guests are without expenses. There are a number of costs wedding guests must consider before deciding to

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Kids who will be in the wedding and their parents also should be invited. Many couples even invite their immediate family members and siblings, even if those relatives are not in the wedding.

Planning the rehearsal dinner

O

ne of the final responsibilities a couple has before they tie the knot is planning their rehearsal dinner.

Typically the night before the wedding, the rehearsal dinner is an opportunity for the families of the bride- and groom-to-be and the members of the bridal party to get to know one another over a good meal.

Planning a rehearsal dinner is much less complicated than planning the wedding, but couples still must take steps in advance of the dinner to ensure it goes smoothly.

• Choose the right restaurant. Couples who are having their ceremony and reception at the same venue may be able to have their rehearsal dinner at the venue as well. But many couples still prefer the rehearsal dinner be held at a different restaurant. When choosing

the restaurant, be sure to make a reservation several weeks in advance and choose a restaurant that’s fully capable of accommodating your party. The restaurant should have a menu that’s versatile enough to accommodate guests on special diets or those who are vegetarian or vegan. The rehearsal dinner party can be quite large, so you’ll want to make your reservation as early as possible so you can get the restaurant of your choice. The larger the group, the earlier you should make the reservation.

• Invite the right guests. Some couples may be confused as to whom they should invite to their rehearsal dinners. Wedding party members and their significant others should always make the cut, as should the parents of both the bride and groom and the person officiating the wedding.

• Determine who is paying in advance.

The groom’s family traditionally pays for the rehearsal dinner, but that tradition has largely fallen by the wayside. Couples should determine who will be paying for the dinner in advance so there’s no confusion once the meal is over. Couples who are handling the bill for their weddings should include the rehearsal dinner in their overall wedding budget.

• Try to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Many of the people invited to the rehearsal dinner may be meeting one another for the first time, so couples should aim to create a relaxed atmosphere to reduce any nervousness and tension. The rehearsal dinner may also be the only time couples can relax and let their hair down with their family and friends, as the wedding day itself and the ensuing reception can be hectic. So take advantage of the more relaxed atmosphere and share a few laughs with those closest to you.

• Bring the gifts for members of your wedding party. The rehearsal dinner is when brides- and grooms-to-be give their bridesmaids and groomsmen their gifts.

If the gifts are especially large, then you might want to give them before you enter

the restaurant or even back at the hotel.

But in many cases, it’s perfectly alright to give out the bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts at the rehearsal dinner.

• Allow time for toasts. Toasts are not just a tradition of the wedding reception, but of the rehearsal dinner as well. The couple’s parents often want to toast the bride- and groom-to-be, and such a toast may be conducted in tandem. But the groom is also expected to give a toast, most notably to his bride-to-be. In addition, the couple walking down the aisle can toast their bridal party during the rehearsal dinner, thanking them for being a part of their big day.

Rehearsal dinners are typically a fun chance for couples and their families and friends to enjoy an intimate and relaxing dinner with one another the night before the couple’s big day. But as relaxing as the rehearsal dinner should be, couples should still follow certain protocols to ensure the dinner goes off without a hitch.

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Impressive floral arrangements make for popular centerpieces at weddings, but couples should not feel as though a floral centerpiece is their only option.

Centerpiece options abound for couples tying the knot

W

eddings may be characterized as a dozen little details coming together to form one big celebration. Key elements of the big day often must be planned well in advance, and timing is usually of the essence to ensure the day goes off without a hitch.

Reception centerpieces are one of those seemingly minor, yet important details couples have to consider. The reception is a memorable night for the couple, and creating a magical experience involves setting the scene, which includes decorat-

ing guests’ tables with centerpieces that capture the theme of the wedding.

Many different styles of centerpieces can be considered. Couples frequently opt for floral centerpieces because of the versatility of flowers and the myriad color combinations that are available. But couples should not limit themselves to a floral centerpiece. In fact, couples can explore a variety of centerpieces options before choosing the one for them.

• Candles: Inexpensive and beautiful,

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• Edible ideas: Centerpieces that double as favors cut down on the expense and amount of work that goes into idea creation. A basket with tulle-wrapped Jordan almonds or decorative boxes of cookies stacked in the center of the table will look attractive and then can be taken home by guests. Even a tall vase filled with candycovered chocolates can be attractive, and then guests can fill up their own little bags of sweet treats.

candles impart a subtle glow to a space.

Candles of varying heights will cast light on the table and make the reception room look and feel more intimate. Place candles on a mirror or silver cake serving platter so that the light of the flames will reflect and disperse even more.

• Themed objects: Birdhouses, watering cans, teapots, a small birdcage, or other items that fit with the theme of a wedding can work well as centerpieces. A carved pumpkin or gourd fits in with a fall-timed wedding, while a sand pail may complete the look of a summer-inspired wedding.

• Fruit: Pieces of fruit, such as lemons, limes, apples, and oranges, can be used as a cost-friendly centerpiece. Whether placed in a basket or clear vase, the colors of fresh fruit can be vibrant and eye-catching. Afterward, the fruit can be brought home and eaten to limit waste.

• Balloons: Don’t underestimate the power of a billowing bouquet of balloons in the center of a table. Relatively lowpriced when compared to flowers, balloons are easy to set up and will quickly fill a space.

• Beads and baubles: Filling a vase or low-profile glass bowl with beads, shells, rocks, or crystals is an easy way to dress up a table. Consider pairing these decorative beads with candles to have a visually appealing design.

• Wildflowers: Rather than centerpieces full of exotic flowers, do-it-yourself couples can place whimsical bunches of wildflowers and fresh herbs into vases on each table.

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