Wedding P lanner The
2019
Joined Together
Unity Ceremony Ideas
Looking At The Past To Celebrate Your Future Honeymoon Inspiration From 2019’s Major Milestones
Present And Unplugged Device-Free Wedding Ceremonies
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The Wedding Planner 5
in this issue 9
10
From Appetizers To Dessert
Crafting A Menu To Remember
Joined Together
Unity Ceremony Ideas
Local Couples
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39 42
Casey and Jason Claire and Dan Ellie and John Kelly and Zach Sarah and Brenden
Present And Unplugged
Device-Free Wedding Ceremonies Make For Better Photos, Attentive Guests
The Wedding Budget
A Few Nips And Tucks To Save Big Bucks
Looking At The Past To Celebrate Your Future
Honeymoon Inspiration From 2019’s Major Milestones
46
Wedding Checklist
48
Upcoming Bridal Shows
Cover photo: Emily Grace Photography, emliygracephoto.com Photo on this page: Lovefusion Photography, www.lovefusionphoto.com For more articles about all the facets of planning a wedding, visit theweddingplanneronline.com.
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From Appetizers To Dessert: Crafting A Menu To Remember
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One way to leave guests with a good taste in their mouths – literally – is to serve a beautiful and delicious wedding cake, like this stunner from Byers Butterflake Bakery, a Leola, Pa., bakery that is owned and operated by Dean and Naomi Byers and their daughter, Diahann Byers-Cascarella. The family’s baking tradition goes back to Dean’s father, Wayne Byers, and many of his recipes are still used. Diahann has her business and pastry arts degree from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, R.I., and can create custom wedding cakes, groom’s cakes, and shower cakes. Special thanks to: Byers Butterflake Bakery 44 W. Main St., Leola, PA 17540 717-656-6803 • byersbakery.com
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A Consider potential allergies. According to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), an organization devoted to improving the quality of life of individuals with food allergies, some common foods
A Don't hesitate to offer a favorite food. While specialty entrées might not be the best choice, especially at large receptions where lots of mouths must be fed, a couple that has a favorite food that’s symbolic of their relationship should not hesitate to offer it during the cocktail hour. For example, a couple that met in Thailand may want to offer a favorite Thai dish.
A Offer an elaborate dessert. The last bite guests will take is dessert, so couples that want their guests to go home raving about the food may want to offer something special after the entrées have been taken away. Some guests may not indulge, but those who do might end their nights thinking about the delicious dessert they enjoyed as the festivities drew to a close. If the dessert is especially unique, offer something more traditional alongside it for guests who prefer to stick to a tried-and-true option.
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A Don't zero in on specialties. While couples might be tempted by specialty dishes when choosing their wedding entrée, keeping things simple may be best if they are hosting dozens – if not hundreds – of guests.
cause the majority of allergic reactions. Peanuts, soy, sesame, and shellfish are among the most common food allergies, according to FARE. FARE also notes that allergies to wheat, milk, and eggs are common in children. While such foods can still be served at wedding receptions, make sure to also include foods that are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions. Couples can even ask guests to inform them of any food allergies in advance so that special accommodations can be planned.
The Wedding Planner
Weddings are memorable for a host of reasons. While couples remember their weddings because they mark the day they tied the knot, guests may remember weddings for other reasons, including the food served at the reception. Guests are sure to discuss the food served at the reception, so couples that choose reception menus wisely can go a long way toward ensuring there are more compliments than complaints once the dinner bell rings.
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Joined Together:
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Weddings celebrate the · Tree planting: Planting a joining together of hearts, tree or shrub that can grow families, and homes. The uniwith the marriage is a green fication of a couple pledging idea and one that takes unity vows to each other is the key rituals to a different level. component of the ceremony, Couples can place the sapling and unity rituals are common in a decorative pot and then during both traditional and take turns watering it. Later, nontraditional weddings. the tree can be planted outUnity ceremonies represent side the couple’s first home. the magic of two people · Lasso ceremony: This coming together as one. ritual is traditional in many Unity rituals may be built Spanish- and Filipino- speakinto certain religious or ing countries. After vows are cultural weddings as a exchanged, the officiant normal part of the festivities. wraps a floral garland or Other couples may want to rosary around the couple. At embrace the idea of a unity the end of the ceremony, the ceremony to add something garland is saved as a symbol special to their ceremonies. of unity and love. Couples seeking creative · Handfasting: This custom 10 options for unity rituals as comes from an ancient Celtic part of their wedding ceretradition that binds right monies can explore these hands of the bride and groom ideas: together during the wedding · Candle lighting: The ceremony. Handfasting symlighting of a unity candle is bolizes the couple’s commitone of the more recognizment to one another. able and traditional unity rit· Flower ceremony: In this uals. During this ritual, the ritual, couples can exchange bride and the groom each roses or a favorite flower and light an individual candle and then place them in a vase or then together light a larger basket. All members of the candle, which celebrates them coming together as one. family also are invited to place a single flower into the · Sand pouring: The pouring of sand into a vessel also is vessel, which ultimately results in a beautiful floral display. a popular unity ritual. In this custom, couples choose two · Creating a painting: In this unity display, couples create sands of different colors and then pour their respective a painting on a blank canvas during their wedding colors into a vessel, allowing the different hues to mix ceremony. The bride and groom can work together to paint together. This ritual can be expanded to include other a specific design (a heart is an appropriate choice), or they family members, with a rainbow of colors blending for a can each pour a different color of paint onto the canvas so now-unified joining of families. that the two colors combine for a more abstract master· Unity cross: Christians piece. The artwork can then may enjoy including a unity be displayed in the couple’s “Our wedding included a rose planting ceremony, cross ritual at their ceremony. home after the big day. symbolizing the roots of our relationship and our A unity cross is a decorative Couples can also create continued growth of love. We will plant this rose in our cross with a holder, and the their own unique unity backyard to always be a symbol of our love for each cross is held in place by three ceremonies. The blending of other. Our mothers provided the foundation for the rose pins, which symbolize the any two materials, such as with soil from each of their homes. We then watered the wine, tea, or glass beads, or Father, the Son, and the Holy rose, symbolizing the joining of our two families." even the traditional tying of Spirit. During this ritual, the - Kelly and Zach, married May 19, 2018, knots will convey the bride, groom, and officiant at Riverdale Manor, Lancaster, PA symbolism of joining as one. will each set a pin in place.
The Wedding Planner
wedding ceremony. “So many people came up to tell us how much they When Lancaster, Pa., residents also provide newlyweds with a loved every part of the ceremony,” Meghan and Eugene got married on tangible memento of the big day, recalls Meghan. “Many remarked that Aug. 4, 2018, they took the expression which is something that appealed to it included things they had never seen “tie the knot” literally. Meghan and Meghan and Eugene. “I loved the before, and they thought everything Eugene, who are high school sweet- idea of having something from our really worked beautifully together and hearts originally from Wilkes-Barre, ceremony that we would want in our seemed to represent us as a couple.” “It was important to us that we were Pa., included a special unity display in home for years to come that would picking ceremony elements their ceremony, during which that were meaningful to us,” they tied a square knot How Meghan and Eugene explained the idea behind adds Meghan. In fact, when together in the center of a their unity ceremony to their guests: A knot has been a symbolic part of weddings for a asked what advice she has for large macramé hanging long time. It can represent many things. The cords other couples that are intermade by local artist Amber of represent Meghan and Eugene as individuals, but ested in including a unity cerRopes and Roses of Lititz, Pa. today, Meghan and Eugene will tie this knot together, emony in their wedding, “I had seen the idea once which will represent the culmination of their unmarried Meghan says, “My best or twice and thought it was life and the beginning of a new chapter. These cords advice is just to make sure perfect for us, because I have become stronger when woven together, and this piece whatever you’re doing has made a few macramé hangwill hang in Meghan and Eugene’s home for years to true meaning to the two of ings myself,” explains come to serve not only as a reminder of the vows you as a couple! It’s hard Meghan, a school psycholothey’ve made today, but also that they are stronger when you’re wedding plangist, noting that she taught together as partners and as family. ning to not let what’s popular Eugene, an executive chef, at the time or what you think how to tie a square knot in the lead-up to the wedding. “Even really be an heirloom of sorts,” says you ‘should’ do influence your choices. though I’m the one that actually makes Meghan. “It’s currently hanging in our But the day – and especially the ceremacramé occasionally, Eugene still bedroom and is a really beautiful mony – is meant to be truly celebrating your relationship and future ... so appreciated and liked the idea behind reminder of the day.” it,” she says. Meghan and Eugene’s friends and you can do whatever you want, and it’s In addition to the symbolism a unity family responded positively to the all about what’s important to the two ceremony affords to a wedding, it can couple’s original and customized of you!”
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The Ties That Bind
Macramé hanging: Ropes and Roses Macramé, Lititz, PA (shopropesandroses.com) Photographer: Emily Grace Photography, Elizabethtown, PA (emilygracephoto.com) Wedding and reception venue: Friedman Farms, Dallas, PA (friedmanfarms.com)
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Jason and Casey Carlisle, PA
bride’s hometown: Dunmore, PA groom’s hometown: Greensburg, PA current place of residence: Carlisle, PA bride’s occupation: human services case manager groom’s occupation: car sales how they met: The couple met one night when Jason was out with his work friends and Casey was out with her girlfriends. They chatted for the rest of the night and went on their first date a week later. “Every day since has been another ‘date,’” says Casey. the proposal: Since Casey is from the Scranton area, she and Jason made the trip to Scranton to enjoy the city’s huge St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Before the parade, they took a walk around Lake Scranton, as they often do when they visit Casey’s parents. Casey was completely surprised when Jason proposed while overlooking the lake. They announced their engagement to Casey’s entire family later at the parade. length of engagement: just over 2 years honeymoon destination: Key West, FL Vendors photography: Kimberly Wright Photography, State College, PA dresses: Simone’s Unlimited, Hanover, PA cake: Sweet Confections Cakes, Harrisburg, PA flowers: Sarah’s Floral Design, Carlisle, PA caterer: The JDK Group, Camp Hill, PA hair: Jessica and Tara from Cachet Salon, Carlisle, PA makeup: Ceresa Myers Moritz, Littlestown, PA disc jockey: Ryan Miller Entertainment, Hershey, PA
Photos by Kimberly Wright Photography, kimberlywrightphotography.com
The Wedding
wedding date: April 21, 2018 ceremony and reception location: Linwood Estate, Carlisle, PA wedding colors: plum and dark gray theme: wine and rustic elegance something that made the ceremony extra special: Casey’s good friend Kyle officiated the ceremony. “Kyle became ordained just for our wedding,” Casey explains. “The ceremony was short, sweet, and perfectly personalized.” flowers: The bride’s bouquet was a neat but voluminous bouquet created with a base of purple hydrangea with delicate stems of purple anemone and petite dark purple dendrobium orchids. The bridesmaids’ bouquets mirrored the bride’s bouquet in style but included white hydrangea, white anemones, and purple dendrobium orchids. centerpieces: Casey and Jason made their centerpieces, which included wine bottle table numbers, handmade plum candles made from cut wine bottles, and cut glittered wine bottles made into vases that held a single chrysanthemum. the menu: braised beef short ribs, lump Maryland crab cakes, and roasted eggplant rolls with red pepper swirled garlic mashed potatoes and Parmesan-crusted asparagus cake: a custom-designed five-tier white chocolate cake with white chocolate filling and white chocolate buttercream frosting, silver glitter, and rosette accents first dance song: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran memorable moment: “My favorite was when Casey decided to steal the microphone from the DJ and give the entire reception a surprise rendition of ‘Don’t Stop Believing,’” says Jason. favorite decorations: “The bells that we made from cut wine bottles that we etched with J & C and placed at each table for people to ring and prompt us to kiss during the reception were one of my favorite aspects,” Casey relates. “They also became a dancing prop for some of the guests!” Also particularly special to Casey was the cork board made from wine corks that was put together by her friends and bridesmaids to display table assignments for the reception. favor: photo booth printouts. Guests also placed a copy of their pictures in a scrapbook for Casey and Jason. something worth splurging on: “Our biggest splurge was on our amazing wedding venue. I knew as soon as I saw it that it was the perfect setting for our wedding,” recalls Casey.
The Wedding Planner: What was the first thing you did when you began to plan your wedding? Casey and Jason: We found our wedding venue first and then planned our wedding date around the venue availability. Even beginning the planning process a year and a half before our wedding, our first choice of wedding date was booked. Thankfully, our date was flexible. We knew we wanted our wedding and reception at the same place. We fell in love with the entire venue from the amazing mansion setting for cocktail hour to the grandiose reception area, but as soon as we saw the lake on Linwood’s grounds we knew it would be perfect for our ceremony! We both love being on the water, and that sealed the deal for us. We could not have imagined having our special day anywhere else. TWP: How did you select the bride’s dress, the groom’s attire, and the outfits of the members of the wedding party? Casey: I had a completely open mind as to the type and style of dress. It took five different bridal shops and trying on more than 50 different dresses before I found “the one” on an impromptu road trip with a friend. Since it was spontaneous to pop into that bridal shop, my mother was obviously not with me, so we video chatted with her (and her all of her colleagues during a staff meeting) for her thoughts. She loved it too. The owner of Simone’s Unlimited customized my dress to be even more perfect than I could have imagined by adding a hint of glitter under the lace and buttons down the back of the dress and train. The bridesmaids’ dresses mirrored my wedding dress with many of the same features, including a sweetheart neckline, a jeweled waistline, and a lace bodice. My finicky sister said “yes” to the bridesmaid’s dress, and the decision was made! Jason knew he wanted a dark gray tuxedo, which is how our colors became plum and gray. He picked his tux and the groomsmen’s patterned vests and elegant plum ties to match the bridesmaids’ dresses. (Jason very much impressed his bride with his tastes in fashion!) TWP: How did you incorporate the tastes and personalities of both the bride and the groom into the wedding? Casey: Jason works a lot, so I jumped down the rabbit hole of Pinterest and put together options for all of the wedding elements and sent Jason streams of texts and emails of ideas for our perfect wedding that reminded me of “us.” On our first date, I introduced Jason to the first bottle of wine he actually liked, so the wine bottle accents came from that idea. Plus, we got to try a ton of different wines in our quest to collect the needed
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bottles and corks that were essential for all of our wine-related wedding projects. Choosing wine by the look of the bottle and the type of cork was quite an experience! TWP: What did you find to be the biggest challenge in planning a wedding? Casey: No matter how prepared we thought we were and how much planning we did, there were just so many last-minute details to be arranged. Thankfully, Jason constantly reminded me that no matter what, come the end of the day, we would be married and
everything would be perfect. He was right! There were some unexpected issues that did occur, but, thankfully, my amazing maids of honor took care of them, and we did not find out until after our wedding day! TWP: What is the most important piece of advice you have for other brides and grooms planning a wedding? Casey and Jason: Make sure you have amazing friends and family to help with all of the tasks to get ready for the wedding! There are so many tasks and preparations that you could have never imagined!
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Claire and Dan Wrightsville, PA
Photos by Lovefusion Photography, lovefusionphoto.com
bride’s hometown: Red Lion, PA groom’s hometown: Fawn Grove, PA current place of residence: York, PA bride’s occupation: swim lesson instructor groom’s occupation: warehouse worker how they met: Dan and Claire met at Calvary Bible Church, the same church they were married in. “Many of our friends from the congregation take credit for introducing us,” Claire notes. the proposal: The couple’s actual engagement took place in the snow on the bank of Lake Williams and was not a surprise at all for Claire. “We had been dating for a while – and had been friends for much longer before that – and we had known almost from the beginning that we were going to get married,” she explains. length of engagement: six months honeymoon destination: Stanardsville, VA
The Wedding wedding date: June 23, 2018 ceremony and reception location: Calvary Bible Church, Wrightsville, PA wedding colors: champagne, burgundy, and sage and forest greens wedding theme: the morning wedding had a very relaxed, picnic sort of feel something that made the ceremony extra special: Dan and Claire’s wedding party included 10 flower girls! Some were children of the couple’s friends, some were Claire’s students from swimming lessons, and one was a girl that Claire nannies. “We wanted our wedding to be very fun, relaxed, and kid-friendly, as we – obviously – love children,” Claire explains. flowers: roses, eucalyptus, and lots of other greenery favorite design element: the flowers the menu: hash browns, sausage, doughnuts, coffee, tea, and other breakfast essentials dessert: Key lime and pumpkin pies favor: picnic blankets something worth splurging on: food
Vendors photography: Kelsey Kinard of Lovefusion Photography, Littlestown, PA bounce house rental: Grand Rental Station, Dallastown, PA bridesmaids’ dresses: Amazon.com groom and groomsmen’s attire: Burlington Coat Factory “The rest of our vendors were all friends and family,” Claire explains. “My mother and some of her close friends made all of the food for us, my bridesmaids and I arranged all of the flowers, and Dan’s father drew a lot of artwork for our more sentimental décor.” The Wedding Planner: What was the first thing you did when you began to plan your wedding? What inspired you to start there? Claire: The first thing we did was pick a date. We had lots of family flying in from out of state and needed to get everyone’s travel in order. TWP: How did you select the bride’s dress, the groom’s attire, and the outfits of the members of the wedding party? Claire: My dress was given to me by a very sweet friend, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. We chose Dan’s suit based on what he would be comfortable in, as we had a pretty active wedding day. We tried to choose pretty affordable options for our groomsmen and bridesmaids so that we wouldn’t have to really put a strain on them. We got our bridesmaids’ dresses on Amazon.com, and all of the groomsmen wore suits from Burlington Coat Factory. TWP: How did you incorporate the tastes and personalities of both the bride and the groom into the wedding? Claire: Our wedding was very relaxed so we didn’t struggle to incorporate things for each of us, and we already have very similar tastes, which made it even simpler. TWP: What did you find to be the biggest challenge in planning a wedding? Claire: The weather. We had planned up until the morning of our wedding to have the ceremony and reception outside, which caused a lot of stress in the weeks before the wedding day and especially on that morning, when we were forced to move everything inside because of rain. TWP: What is the most important piece of advice you have for other brides and grooms planning a wedding? Claire: Make sure you have a foolproof way to remember who was there. Also, relax and enjoy the day.
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Camp Hill Banquet Facility
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John and Ellie York, PA
Photos by Lovefusion Photography, lovefusionphoto.com
bride’s hometown: York, PA groom’s hometown: York, PA current place of residence: York, PA bride’s occupation: registered nurse groom’s occupation: electrical engineer how they met: John and Ellie grew up together in the same church when they were younger. They were later reunited by John’s sister, who is a friend of Ellie’s. the proposal: John proposed one night when he and Ellie were watching TV in the living room of their new house. length of engagement: seven months honeymoon destination: Secrets Papagayo, Costa Rica
The Wedding wedding date: September 2, 2017 ceremony and reception location: Country Club of York, York, PA wedding colors: navy blue, rose gold, white, and leafy green wedding theme: boho something that made the ceremony extra special: Ellie and John wrote their own vows, and a lantern was carried down the aisle by the ring bearer in loving memory of their grandparents who have passed away. flowers: purple, green, and white flowers and plants, including kale, succulents, eucalyptus, peony, and artichoke the menu: hors d’oeuvres of baconwrapped scallops and crab dip toast, with an entrée of chicken amandine with green beans and twice-baked potatoes cake: lemon cake with raspberry filling and Tahitian vanilla butter cream first dance song: “Better Today” by Coffey Anderson favorite décor element: rose gold geometric shapes favor: bear and owl cookies, in honor of both their last names something worth splurging on: the honeymoon
Vendors photography: Lovefusion Photography, Littlestown, PA catering: Country Club of York, York, PA cake: Country Club of York, York, PA flowers: Root to Bloom Florals, York, PA invitations: Anstadt Communications, York, PA bride’s dress: Lilla’s Bridal Boutique, York, PA bridesmaids’ dresses: Lulus groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse, York, PA rings: REEDS Jewelers, York, PA disc jockey: Then We Danced, East Berlin, PA transportation: CBRD, York, PA The Wedding Planner: What was the first thing you did when you began to plan your wedding? What inspired you to start there? Ellie: The first thing we did was pick a venue. I started there so we would be able to know what the date of the wedding would be since it was planned in a short amount of time. TWP: How did you select the attire of the members of the wedding party? Ellie: I always knew what colors I wanted to do for the wedding and the type of dresses I wanted, so I tried to find places that had something similar. TWP: How did you incorporate the tastes and personalities of both the bride and the groom into the wedding? Ellie: John really did not have much to do with the planning of the wedding, because he did not really care about the details, but rather just wanted it to be what I wanted. The car that we drove off in was the only thing that my husband really planned. TWP: What did you find to be the biggest challenge in planning a wedding? Ellie: Staying within budget. You had to learn how to prioritize what is most important to you both to spend money on, since weddings are already expensive to start.
TWP: What is the most important piece of advice you have for other brides and grooms planning a wedding? Ellie: Take a couple minutes for the two of you to be alone on your wedding day. Make sure to take your time to enjoy the day.
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Zach and Kelly Lancaster, PA
Photos by Emily Grace Photography, emilygracephoto.com
bride’s hometown: Baltimore, MD groom’s hometown: Lancaster, PA current place of residence: Bel Air, MD bride’s occupation: quality engineer groom’s occupation: procurement representative how they met: Zach and Kelly met the very first day of freshman orientation at Elizabethtown College. They were assigned to the same peer group and were friends throughout college before starting to date in their senior year. the proposal: The couple was on the way to Lancaster for Zach’s birthday when Zach suggested a surprise stop at Elizabethtown College for lunch. After lunch, Zach said he wanted to take a walk. When they reached the gazebo on campus overlooking the lake, Zach showed Kelly a scrapbook he had made of their entire relationship. The last page said, “Kelly, will you marry me?” After she said yes, they celebrated at a surpise party with their family and friends. length of engagement: a year and a half honeymoon destination: Jamaica Vendors photography: Emily Grace Photography, Elizabethtown, PA disc jockey: Occasions Disc Jockeys, Elizabethtown, PA ceremony musicians: Cherrywood String Ensembles, Lancaster, PA flowers: Petals with Style, Lancaster, PA catering: Thyme & Seasons, Lancaster, PA dresses for the bride and bridesmaids: K&B Bridals, Bel Air, MD shuttle: Shultz Transportation, Willow Street, PA rehearsal dinner: The Greenfield Restaurant, Lancaster, PA
The Wedding
wedding date: May 19, 2018 ceremony and reception location: Riverdale Manor, Lancaster, PA wedding colors: purple, gray, and green wedding theme: natural and romantic readings during the ceremony: an excerpt from “Les Misérables” (bride’s choice) and “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin (groom’s choice) special music: Kelly and Zach each chose the instrumental song that was performed by Cherrywood Ensembles as they walked into the ceremony. Kelly chose “All I Ask of You” from “The Phantom of the Opera,” and Zach chose “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin. something that made the ceremony extra special: The officiant was a longtime family friend. flowers: wildflowers in bright and happy colors the menu: tomato soup shooters with mini grilled cheese, Buffalo chicken wonton cups, smoked salmon bites, a grilled pizza station, a kebab station, a carving station, and a late-night popcorn station cake: carrot cake, plus a dessert bar that included assorted mini bar cookies and whoopie pies, carrot cake, peach pie, and coconut custard tart first dance song: “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons favorite aspects of the day: All of Riverdale Manor! Flowers! And the grilled pizza! favor: succulents The Wedding Planner: What was the first thing you did when you began to plan your wedding? Kelly and Zach: The first thing we did was find our venue and set our wedding date. By picking the wedding venue first, it helped to define the whole feel of the
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The ceremony music selections and readings incorporated each of our personalities and favorite music. The ceremony was designed by both of us and our officiant, a longtime family friend. Additionally, we love food and were really excited for the choices for appetizers, dinner, and desserts (although it is so true that the bride and groom don’t have time to eat!). Riverdale Manor was also a perfect reflection of our personalities. We chose the venue together, and it was love at first sight! TWP: What did you find to be the biggest challenge in planning a wedding?
Kelly and Zach: The biggest challenge was staying organized. There are a lot of details, and it’s a lot to coordinate. But with the support of your partner and other close friends and family, wedding planning can be fun! TWP: What is the most important piece of advice you have for other brides and grooms planning a wedding? Kelly and Zach: Plan ahead and do as much as you possibly can ahead of time. Don’t procrastinate! That way, the final days leading up to the wedding are fun and relaxing, rather than stressful.
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day, which made everything else easier to plan! TWP: How did you select the bride’s dress and the bridesmaids’ dresses? Kelly: We picked purple for the color for the bridal party because we thought it would pop against the landscape. The bridesmaids picked their own styles within that color. I selected my dress by trying multiple styles until finally feeling like a bride! TWP: How did you incorporate the tastes and personalities of both the bride and the groom into the wedding? Kelly and Zach: The ceremony was personalized to be exactly “Zach and Kelly.”
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Brenden and Sarah York and Hallam, PA
Photos by Rebecca Shivers Photography, rebeccashiversphotography.com
bride’s hometown: Hellam, PA groom’s hometown: Bridgewater, CT current place of residence: Hellam, PA bride’s occupation: registered nurse groom’s occupation: tree service worker how they met: In 2010, Sarah was a missionary serving at a clinic in SaintMarc, Haiti, and Brenden was on an aid trip in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, with some military friends. When a cholera outbreak happened in Sarah’s town, Brenden’s group traveled north to offer their skills, and the two began working together. the proposal: Sarah and Brenden took a weekend trip to Rhode Island, along with Sarah’s parents. After taking the ferry to Block Island, they rode bikes around the island, ending up at a lighthouse. Brenden proposed while they stood together overlooking the bluffs. length of engagement: 10 months honeymoon destination: Oahu and Maui, HI Vendors photography: Rebecca Shivers Photography, Denver, PA videography: Invision Video Productions, Leola, PA disc jockey: DJ Mast Productions, Lancaster, PA wedding dress: Blush Bridal, Lancaster, PA attire of groom and groomsmen: Men’s Wearhouse cake: Jennifer Stricker, Akron, PA catering: GingerBabies Catering, York, PA hair and makeup: Salon Nouveau, York, PA
The Wedding
wedding date: April 21, 2018 ceremony location: Stony Brook Mennonite Church, York, PA reception location: Stone Mill Inn, Hallam, PA wedding colors: sage and lilac something that made the ceremony extra special: The bride and groom led worship singing during the wedding ceremony, which also included Communion. unity ceremony included in the ceremony: the lighting of a unity candle flowers: All of the flowers for the day – which included purple lilacs, white roses, succulents, and eucalyptus - as well as the roses, berries, and ivy that filled lanterns that were included in the centerpieces, were arranged by the groom’s mother. the menu: beef tenderloin, chicken bianca, and eggplant lasagna cake: three separate “tiers” of lemon cake with raspberry filling first dance song: “Oh True Love” by The Everly Brothers favorite decoration: The bride’s father made a wooden arch with a chandelier. favor: chocolate something worth splurging on: the videographer The Wedding Planner: What was the first thing you did when you began to plan your wedding? What inspired you to start there? Sarah: We first booked the venue. We started with this because we were really hoping to have our reception at the Stone Mill Inn and were willing to be flexible with the dates available there. We chose our wedding date based on what they had open.
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TWP: How did you select the bride’s dress, the groom’s attire, and the outfits of the members of the wedding party? Sarah: Blush Bridal was recommended by a friend, and while we did search other shops for a wedding dress, I kept thinking about a dress I had tried on there. The bridesmaids’ dresses were ordered from an online site because it seemed the easiest option with a large wedding party. We chose Men’s Wearhouse for the groom’s and groomsmen’s attire. The chain store option was appealing because all the groomsmen were located out of state. We were able to choose pieces in York, and groomsmen were fitted in Connecticut. TWP: How did you incorporate the tastes and personalities of both the bride and the groom into the wedding? Sarah: The groom was very flexible!
The ceremony was performed by my uncle. Together, Brenden and I planned the ceremony, discussing what was important to each of us to include. TWP: What did you find to be the biggest challenge in planning a wedding? Coordinating all the time frames of the day. Most vendors are booked for a certain time frame, and making sure those time frames overlapped and coordinated with other vendor needs was a challenge. Our photographer and videographer were very helpful with this. TWP: What is the most important piece of advice you have for other brides and grooms planning a wedding? Sarah: A piece of advice shared with us from a friend: Remember that ultimately you are planning a marriage.
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Device-Free Wedding Ceremonies Make For Better Photos, Attentive Guests
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are fine for typical family gatherings, but when it comes to your wedding day, you may want to keep these overzealous family documentarians at bay. One increasingly popular way to do this is by having an “unplugged” wedding, in which all or part of a couple’s big day is free of guests’ cameras and electronic devices. Recent newlyweds 36 Meghan and Eugene, who live in Lancaster, Couples can let their guests know about their request decided to have an ceremony for the ceremony to be device-free in a variety of ways, unplugged including displaying a sign like this one at Casey and when they were married Jason’s wedding at Linwood Estate. The officiant can at Friedman Farms in also make an announcement at the beginning of the Dallas, Pa. “Our version ceremony, or a note could be included in the wedding of ‘unplugged’ was just program. Photo by Kimberly Wright Photography, for the ceremony,” they kimberlywrightphotography.com note. “Honestly, we first started thinking about it By Candace Engle for more selfish reasons because we Every family has one – a family didn’t want anyone jumping in the documentarian who is constantly aisle trying to get a photo when we snapping photos of you with your were paying professional photogramouth stuffed with food, with your phers and videographers to be there eyes closed, or in some generally to document everything.” unflattering position (the ubiquitous Central Pennsylvania photograbackside photo, for example). In my pher Melania Timpano echoed that family, that amateur photographer sentiment. “As a photographer, I was always using one of those dis- have had guests stand in the aisles to posable wind-up cameras with an get photos with cameras as the bride obnoxiously loud winding noise and is coming down with her blinding flash. In other families, it father. Unfortunately, my photo of may be an aunt carting around an the groom’s reaction was ruined,” enormous iPad or the dad who insists she explains. “There have also been on bringing his new drone to every instances when someone’s flash went possible event. off, and that ruined the photo by The resulting unscripted, unflatter- sending a bright blue light on my ing family photos provide us all with photo,” Melania adds. “Sometimes some laughs now and then, and they we get lucky and can save an image,
but most times we have to use the next best to deliver to our clients,” says Melania. Besides having unobstructed aisles and professional photos that capture the exact moment when the groom first catches sight of the bride, another benefit of having an unplugged wedding ceremony is a big one – the gift of guests and attendants being truly present to share in this special moment. “I’ll never tell a couple to ban mobile devices when it comes to their entire wedding,” Melania says, “but I do give a friendly nudge when it comes to unplugged ceremonies. The ceremony is the most intimate part of the day. It’s the moment that brides/grooms have been waiting for since they were kids. That’s the part of the day when two people officially become a family. As a guest, why watch that through a screen when it’s live, in front of your face?” Bride Meghan notes, “So many guests made it a point to talk to us about how much they loved the ceremony, and I do wonder if it would have been different if people were able to be on their phones … during that time instead of just relaxing and being in the moment with us.” When it comes to letting guests know their gadgets aren’t welcome during your I do’s, being simple and to-the-point is best. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of images online that come up during a search for unplugged wedding signs. While some rhyme and others illustrate their point with a cartoon instructing guests “not to be that guy,” they all clearly state in some shape or form that guests should tuck away their
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rather than upset your guests completely, find another way to get them involved in the big day! I mean, you have a wedding hashtag for a reason, right? Scavenger hunts during weddings are a thing, and you can make them as fun as you want – (send guests on a photographic mission with) simple tasks like ‘the groom playing with his new ring’ (or) ‘the bride laughing so much it hurts.’” “You know your guests,” she continues. “Give them a job to do, and print your instructions on some card stock. Want even more fun? Make them different for every table! Then, once your day is over, make a Facebook group and start asking for contributors or start a shared album.” When reflecting on the big day once it is over, the couples we spoke to were happy they chose to have an unplugged wedding, and photographers seem to embrace the rising popularity of such events. “I’m definitely glad we did it!” Meghan says. “Our photos and video turned out beautifully, and I really think it added to the ceremony.” As a photographer, Melania notes, “Bottom line, this a decision that a couple has to make, but we are hired
37 A couple can opt for an unplugged ceremony, while encouraging guests to take as many photos as they like during other parts of the big day. Meghan and Eugene posted a sign at the reception of their Friedman Farms wedding to let their guests know that photos and social media posts from the reception were welcome and encouraged. Photo by Emily Grace Photography, emilygracephoto.com
professionals for a reason. Give us the chance to do our jobs as best as possible.” Special Thanks To: Melania Timpano, Melania Marta Photography melaniamphotography.com Melania Marta Photography on Instagram and Facebook
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Encouraging guests to put down their cellphones and cameras will allow them to be fully engaged in the wedding and ensure that no one misses out on special moments, like when the guests at Dani and Taylor’s wedding at Stock’s Manor participated in their ceremony exit. Photo by Melania Marta Photography, melaniamphotography.com
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cameras and phones until a certain point in the festivities. Casey and Jason of Carlisle had hoped not to have “a sea of iPhones in all of [their] professional wedding photos” at their Linwood Estate wedding, so they opted for a sign and had their officiant make an announcement as well. “You can see those sly guests with their phones up in the air in some of the wedding pictures, but I truly believe that it was much better than if we did not have the ‘unplugged’ wedding,” Casey reflects. “As I look back, I guess we could have alleviated some of those phones in the pictures by talking to specific guests before the wedding. I could have guessed those who would have not appreciated the idea of being ‘unplugged,’ but all in all, most of our guests respected the request, and the (professional) pictures turned out great!” Casey adds, “I would definitely recommend the idea of an unplugged ceremony to engaged couples, and I am happy that our photographer (Kimberly Wright) suggested it to us.” For some weddings, devices are welcomed back immediately following the wedding ceremony; for others, couples may ask that cameras are kept away until after the first dance at the reception. Considering that many couples opt to create a wedding hashtag, candid photos of the rest of the day’s events are often warmly encouraged. Meghan and Eugene’s officiant noted in his announcement, “We have professional photographers and filmmakers here today who will be capturing Meghan and Eugene’s ceremony. But the cocktail hour and reception are game on. Instagram and Snapchat away for the rest of the night!” Melania offers some great advice in this arena. “We love seeing photos of ourselves, especially at an important event,” she says. “So,
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Tying the knot can be an expensive endeavor. According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, which surveyed nearly 13,000 brides and grooms in the United States who got married in 2017, the average cost of a wedding was more than $33,000. That figure may surprise some people planning their weddings, many of whom may not be able to afford spending so much on their ceremonies and receptions. Couples may feel pressure to compete with friends and relatives whose weddings they have attended in the past, and that may compel some to stretch their budgets and even go into debt to finance their nuptials. However, there are ways for couples to curtail their wedding spending and impress guests at the same time.
A Few Nips And Tucks To Save Big Bucks
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· Trim the guest list. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that couples spent an average of $268 per guest in 2017. Many couples are recognizing that smaller guest lists are a great way to lower wedding spending, and The Knot study found that the average guest count decreased from 149 in 2009 to 136 in 2017. Trimming the guest list may seem harsh, but couples that work together can likely find between 10 and 15 acquaintances on their initial lists who won’t be offended if they’re not invited. Couples that spend the 2017 average per guest can save nearly $3,000 by removing just 10 people from their guest lists. · Expand your venue horizons. A greater number of couples are looking beyond traditional wedding venues and opting for more unique locales to tie the knot. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that 15 percent of 2017 weddings were held on farms, on ranches, and even in barns, while just 2 percent of weddings were hosted in such venues in 2009. The growing popularity of unique wedding venues may make some locations more expensive than couples anticipate, but a willingness to tie the knot in a unique venue greatly increases couples’ options, improving the chances they will find more affordable venues. · Cut back on guest entertainment. Customizing experiences for guests is a major reason that today’s couples are spending so much more per guest than their predecessors. Spending for customized guest entertainment, which includes elements like photo booths, sparklers, and video booths, tripled between 2009 and 2017. Couples may want to give their guests unique experiences, but they should not stretch their budgets or go into debt to do so. Couples may want to try to narrow down the perks to one or two experiences that are particularly meaningful to them in order to save some money. · Tie the knot in winter. Summer and fall were the most popular wedding seasons in 2017, and that does
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not figure to change anytime soon. Couples can take advantage of those trends by getting married in winter, a slow season for wedding venues and vendors, that might be more flexible with their prices. The most popular months to tie the knot in 2017 were June, September, and October, so couples that don’t want to wed in winter but want to avoid paying top prices should avoid those three months.
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Looking At The Past To Celebrate Your Future...
Honeymoon Inspiration From 2019’s Major Milestones
2019 will certainly be a memorable year for couples planning to tie the knot. But it will also be a memorable year for other reasons, as the anniversaries of many important historic events will be celebrated. Couples can draw inspiration from some of 2019’s milestones when picking a destination for a post-wedding trip.
Alaska and Hawaii
In 2019, Alaska and Hawaii will mark the 60th anniversary of becoming the 49th and 50th states, respectively, in the United States. While the locations, climates, and cultures of Alaska, the nation’s northernmost state, and Hawaii, the westernmost state in the country, are quite different, both states offer plenty of attractions for visiting newlyweds. Alaska boasts some of the country’s most breathtaking national parks, and couples that enjoy camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing will be particularly enchanted with Denali National Park and Preserve (site of the tallest peak in North America), Kenai Fjords National Park (home to wildlife ranging from orca to moose and otters to mountain goats), and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve (the largest national park in the U.S. and the nation’s largest glacial system), to name just a few. Visitors to Alaska in fall, winter, and spring will even have a chance to view the otherworldly phenomenon
of the Northern Lights. Honeymooning in Hawaii is popular for a reason. Hawaii’s pristine beaches, luxurious accommodations, ukulele music, delicious cuisine, and abundant supply of mai tais are a recipe for island relaxation, which is sure to be appreciated by newlyweds after surviving the hustle and bustle 43 of planning a wedding. Adventureloving duos can learn to surf, go on a whale watching boat ride, try snorkeling, and take on some of the island chain’s scenic hikes.
Apollo 11 Historic Sites and Exhibits
2019 marks 50 years since Neil Armstrong’s one small step onto the surface of the moon signified one giant leap for all mankind. While a trip to the moon itself is still a bit out of reach for even the most daring and affluent of couples, there are a number of destinations where Earthbound visitors can recapture the spirit of excitement that gripped the nation during the Apollo 11 space mission. The spacecraft was launched
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As the saying goes, “Paris is always a good idea,” and that sentiment certainly seems true in 2019 when the City of Lights celebrates the 130th anniversary of the completion of construction on the Eiffel Tower, which was originally created for the 1889 World’s Fair. With exciting nightlife offerings, world-class museums, legendary shopping, and delicious French cuisine, Paris provides something for everyone. Making it all the more perfect for honeymooners is the city’s reputation as one of the most romantic places on Earth – think strolling along the Seine, sampling wine and chocolate, dining alfresco in one of the many charming cafes, and visiting the city’s beautiful gardens. The nearby Palace of Versailles is also marking a major milestone in 2019, with the centennial anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which officially ended World War I. In addition to being the site of the signing of the landmark treaty, the palace is the former home of France’s kings from Louis XIV, who established his court and government there in 1682, through Louis XVI, who had to leave the palace in 1789 due to the French Revolution. Now, the 2,300-room palace is open for tours, and in addition to the opulent building itself, visitors can view its extensive collections of art and
historical artifacts. The palace’s gardens include fountains, sculptures, and plenty of scenic spots for newlyweds to take a romantic stroll. Those looking to celebrate yet another anniversary can hop on a passenger train to the United Kingdom, because the Channel Tunnel is marking 25 years since it opened in 1994.
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Paris and Versailles, France
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from Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island in Florida, and the mission was guided from the Mission Control Center at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, and both locations offer tours and exhibits to highlight their important roles in the history of space exploration. (Newlyweds who also have a love of sun and sand will be pleased to note that both locations are also conveniently located near beaches.) In 2019, the Apollo 11 spacecraft’s Command Module Columbia will be continuing on a four-city tour that began in 2017. The Columbia will be on view at the Senator John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh through Feb. 18, 2019, before taking up temporary residence at the Seattle Museum of Flight from April 13 to Sept. 2, 2019. To commemorate the golden anniversary, Neil Armstrong’s historic spacesuit will also be on display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. But if those options just aren’t enough to satisfy a couple’s thirst for
exploration beyond the Earth’s confines, stay tuned: With a number of companies working on pioneering space tourism, a new frontier in honeymoon destinations may be on the horizon in the not-too-distant future!
Berlin, Germany
November 2019 will mark 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the reunified city has plenty to offer visitors. Be sure to visit the Brandenburger Tor, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and the Reichstag, the home of the German Parliament, as both landmarks are symbols of reunified Germany. History buffs will find a host of historical sites and memorials to take in, including Checkpoint Charlie and the Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe (Berlin’s Holocaust Memorial). For an Instagram-worthy history lesson, head to the East Side Gallery – an intact section of the Berlin Wall that is now considered the world’s longest open-air gallery and boasts more than 100 murals. Art and history lovers thirsting for
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even more culture can head to Museum Island, a grouping of five world-class museums. Those looking for some green space should visit the 630-acre Tiergarten, which offers plenty of space for visitors to stretch their legs and also includes the German president’s residence, along with the Berlin Zoo, a number of monuments, and biergartens. Berlin is also music to the ears of honeymooners who love music of any kind, as they can seek out concerts at Berliner Philharmonie Concert Hall and Konzerthaus Berlin or dance the night away in the many clubs and discos in the city. The metropolis is also noted for its shopping and restaurants; don’t forget to try currywurst, a local specialty. Looking for more inspiration? Here are some other historical events marking milestone anniversaries in 2019: • 2019 will mark 150 years since the birth of renowned civil rights activist Mahatma Gandhi, making it an opportune time to explore Gandhi’s homeland of India. • Also marking a milestone birthday in 2019 is England’s Queen Victoria, who was born 200 years ago in Kensington Palace in London. Influences of the beloved queen and her court are still felt today in England and throughout the world. • The Big Apple will mark 80 years since the World’s Fair opened in New York on April 30, 1939. The international event was held in the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, which is now home to sporting facilities, museums, the Queens Zoo, and more. And, couples that cannot limit themselves to just one destination can take a cue from Ferdinand Magellan, as 2019 also marks the 500th anniversary of Magellan setting sail on his historic voyage to circumnavigate the globe in 1519. Additional inspiration for a globetrotting trip can be gleaned from journalist Nellie Bly’s successful 1899 attempt to race around the world in under 80 days, which will mark 120 years in 2019.
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your wedding planning checklist There are so many things to think about when planning a wedding. We have provided this handy checklist so you can stay on top of your to-do list and have your planning go as smoothly as possible. Everyone has a different vision, so this is just a starting point. Amp up or scale back as you see fit!
6-9 Months Before ❍ Purchase a wedding dress. ❍ Shop for and order bridesmaids’ dresses. ❍ Send out save-the-date cards.
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4-5 Months Before ❍ Begin premarital counseling, if you wish. ❍ Choose and purchase wedding invitations. ❍ Book your honeymoon accommodations and buy plane tickets. ❍ Reserve a site for the rehearsal dinner. ❍ Buy wedding shoes and try on veils and other accessories with your gown. ❍ Book a hair and makeup appointment at your salon. ❍ Book limos, carriages, a trolley, town cars, or other modes of transportation for your wedding and reception, if needed. ❍ Meet with bakers, have a cake tasting, and decide on your wedding cake design. ❍ Meet with the officiant and begin discussing ceremony details. ❍ Give your wedding guest list to the host of your bridal shower.
3 Months Before Finalize your menu options. Send out wedding invitations. Choose ceremony music. Finalize flowers. Arrange for rental items for your reception, if necessary. Start looking for wedding favors. Purchase undergarments and other accessories, as well as bridesmaids’ accessories. Purchase wedding rings and send them to be engraved, if you wish. Make an appointment for a dress fitting for alterations.
2 Months Before ❍ Practice walking in your wedding shoes if you purchased high heels. ❍ Finalize ceremony music and readings. ❍ Go for dress fittings. ❍ Enjoy your bridal shower. ❍ Determine a day-of schedule and send it out to your vendors. ❍ Review your reception playlist with your band/disc jockey. ❍ Mail rehearsal dinner invitations. ❍ Finalize honeymoon details/itinerary. ❍ Choose the groom’s and groomsmen’s attire. ❍ Begin a beauty regimen (teeth whitening, pedicures, etc.). 1 Month Before ❍ Get your marriage license. ❍ Purchase gifts for the wedding party and your parents. ❍ Have a trial run with your hairdresser for your hair and makeup. ❍ Send out final payments to vendors. ❍ Call any guests who haven’t RSVP’ed. ❍ Give final counts to caterers/venues. ❍ Determine a seating chart. ❍ Get menu cards/programs printed, if you wish. ❍ Get place cards/escort cards printed. ❍ Look into the business of changing your last name (if you are planning to), as well as some of the other details of your status change.
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9-12 Months Before ❍ Announce your engagement to your family and friends. ❍ Determine the approximate size, style, and formality of your event. ❍ Work out a budget. Decide who is paying for what. ❍ Start the guest list to know an approximate count for booking venues. ❍ Decide on an approximate date for the wedding. ❍ Choose the members of your wedding party. ❍ Hire a wedding planner, if you wish. ❍ Research and visit ceremony and reception venues. Note: If you are hoping to book a popular venue, especially if you are set on a particular 46 date, this step should be completed earlier. ❍ Book your ceremony and reception sites. ❍ Create a wedding website, if you wish. ❍ Begin looking at wedding gowns. ❍ Start thinking about where you would like to take your honeymoon. ❍ Research florists, bands/DJs, and photographers and begin getting quotes. ❍ Research caterers (if separate from the reception venue) and bakeries for your cake.
❍ Book a photographer and/or videographer. Note: If you are getting married during the peak wedding season, you probably want to complete this step sooner, especially if you have a particular photographer in mind. ❍ Get engagement photos taken and submit your announcement to your local newspapers. ❍ Start finalizing the guest list and collecting addresses. ❍ Book a caterer, set up a tasting, and begin choosing your menu. ❍ Choose a honeymoon destination and update your passports if necessary. ❍ Book a wedding officiant. ❍ Choose musicians for your ceremony and book reception entertainment. ❍ Meet with a florist and start choosing flowers. ❍ Create a wedding registry at several different stores/websites. ❍ Block off rooms at a nearby hotel for out-of-town guests.
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Day of the Wedding ❍ Be sure to eat and drink plenty of fluids. ❍ Get your hair and makeup done. ❍ Enjoy your day! After the Wedding ❍ Complete paperwork for changing your last name, changing insurance, etc. ❍ Send out thank-you notes. ❍ Get your wedding dress cleaned and preserved.
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Week of the Wedding Pack for your honeymoon. Enjoy a bachelor/bachelorette party. Pick up your dress. Pick up tuxes/suits. Gather any items that need to be transported to your venues (guestbook, photos, favors, etc.). Have the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Make any additional payments that haven’t been paid. Confirm, confirm, confirm. Prepare envelopes with tips for vendors. Pack your emergency wedding day kit. Try to get some sleep.
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❍ Write vows, if you are going that route. ❍ Have a final dress fitting. ❍ Prepare a shot list for your photographer.
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upcoming bridal shows
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January 4-5, 2019 Timonium Bridal Expo Maryland Fairgrounds 2200 York Road, Timonium, MD marylandwpa.com January 5-6, 2019 Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo Pennsylvania Convention Center – Hall F 1101 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA bridalshowsphilly.com January 6, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Central Hotel Harrisburg 800 E. Park Drive, Harrisburg, PA bestweddingshowcase.com January 6, 2019 Wink 104 Bridal Expo Radisson Hotel Harrisburg 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill, PA wink104.com January 6, 2019 Lehigh Valley’s Winter Bridal Show Ag Hall, Allentown Fairgrounds 302 N. 17th St., Allentown, PA americanbride.com January 13, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Lancaster Marriott & Convention Center 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster, PA bestweddingshowcase.com January 13, 2019 Wedding Wonderland Bridal Showcase Memorial Hall East at the York Fairgrounds 334 Carlisle Ave., York, PA weddingwonderlandpa.com January 16, 2019 An Elegant Bridal Show The Springhaven Golf Club 600 S. Providence Road, Wallingford, PA elegantbridal.com January 20, 2019 Melhorn Manor Wedding Expo Melhorn Manor 977 W. Main St., Mount Joy, PA facebook.com/ MelhornWeddingExpo
January 20, 2019 Wedding In Style PA Wedding Expo Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel 4650 Lindle Road, Harrisburg, PA paweddingexpo.com January 27, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Wyndham Garden York 2000 Loucks Road, York, PA bestweddingshowcase.com January 27, 2019 Philadelphia Winter Bridal Show The Radisson Hotel 2400 Old Lincoln Highway, Trevose, PA phillybridalshow.com February 2, 2019 Lehigh Valley’s Country Club American Bridal Show Green Pond Country Club 3604 Farmersville Road, Bethlehem, PA pabridalshow.com February 10, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Reading Santander Arena 700 Penn St., Reading, PA bestweddingshowcase.com February 10, 2019 Montgomery County Bridal Showcase Talamore Country Club 723 Talamore Drive, Ambler, PA bridalevent.com February 17, 2019 Annual Philly Bridal Showcase The Event Center at Sugarhouse Casino 1001 N. Delaware Ave., Philadelphia, PA bridalevent.com February 17, 2019 An Elegant Bridal Show Warrington Country Club & Banquet Center 1360 Almshouse Road, Warrington, PA elegantbridal.com/ February 24, 2019 Philadelphia’s Largest Winter American Bridal Show Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing 201 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA phillybridalshow.com
February 24, 2019 Big King of Prussia Bridal Showcase Sheraton Valley Forge 480 N. Gulph Road, King of Prussia, PA bridalevent.com March 3, 2019 Today’s Best Delaware Bridal Showcase DuPont Country Club 1001 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE bridalevent.com March 10, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Downtown Hilton Harrisburg 1 N. Second St., Harrisburg, PA bestweddingshowcase.com March 14, 2019 An Elegant Bridal Show The Farmhouse at the People’s Lighthouse 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA elegantbridal.com March 24, 2019 Big Philly Bridal Show & Expo Philadelphia Marriott Downtown 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA bridalevent.com March 31, 2019 Best Bridal and Wedding Showcase La Massaria at Bella Vista 2901 Fagleysville Road, Gilbertsville, PA bridalevent.com March 31, 2019 An Elegant Bridal Show Old York Road Country Club Tennis Avenue, Spring House, PA elegantbridal.com April 7, 2019 Big King of Prussia Bridal Showcase Crowne Plaza Valley Forge 260 Mall Blvd., King of Prussia, PA bridalevent.com April 14, 2019 The “I Do!” Delaware Bridal Showcase The Christiana Hilton 100 Continental Drive, Newark, DE bridalevent.com
April 28, 2019 Bucks County Elegant Wedding and Bridal Showcase Aldie Mansion 85 Old Dublin Pike, Doylestown, PA bridalevent.com April 28, 2019 The Delaware County Bridal Show and Wedding Expo Concordville Inn Route 322 and Route 1, Concordville, PA bridalevent.com July 18, 2019 Lehigh Valley’s Largest Summer American Bridal Show Stabler Arena 124 Goodman Drive, Bethlehem, PA pabridalshow.com July 21, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase York Expo Center 334 Carlisle Ave., York, PA bestweddingshowcase.com August 4, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Lancaster Marriott & Convention Center 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster, PA bestweddingshowcase.com September 15, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Radisson Hotel Harrisburg 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill, PA bestweddingshowcase.com September 29, 2019 Best Wedding Showcase Reading Santander Arena 700 Penn St., Reading, PA bestweddingshowcase.com
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