Gumbo 2nd Quarter 2021

APRIL - JUNE 2021

Ascension

Everything Good Is In The Gumbo

Catering Creativity Pandemic food trends —Page 6

Something for Everyone Bridal gown trends run the gamut —Page 8

Look Your Best Groom fashion options —Page 18

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

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APRIL - JUNE 2021 • VOL. 13

BUSINESS MANAGER K Stephanie Schexnaydre EDITOR K Scott Anderson GRAPHICS K Liz Arceneaux • Shaun Hebert • Brittney Naquin • Aanifa LeBlanc MULTIMEDIA SALES EXECUTIVES K Martine Duhe INSIDE CLASSIFIED SALES REP K T’Shanda Baldridge Published by GANNETT Ascension Gumbo Magazine

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231 W. Cornerview, Gonzales, LA 70737 K Phone: 225-644-6397 d by:

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©2021 GANNETT Ascension Gumbo Magazine must give permission for any material contained herein to be reproduced in any manner. Any advertisements published in Ascension Gumbo Magazine do not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s services or products. Ascension Gumbo Magazine is published quarterly by GANNETT

K–On the Cover:

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K–Table of Contents: 5—Editor's Note 6—Food and Drink 8—Gown Trends 9—Cover Sponsor 12—Benefits of Small Wedding 16—Planning Choices 17—Family Heirlooms 18—Groom Fashion 20—Minimony 22—Guest List 24—Changing Times 26—Eco-Friendly Wedding APRIL - JUNE 2021

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Home & Remodeling Show with Ralph's Market Food Fest..........................May 22 The Boutique Bridal Show ................................May 30 Le Pavillon at Parc Lafayette, 1913 Kaliste Saloom Road

The Wedding Collective - New Orl4eans ...........June 17 Le Pavgillon Hotel, 833 Poydras St., New Orleans

For more visit visitlasweetspot.com/events

— 4.—

K–From the Editor: SCOTT ANDERSON

Y

our wedding day. It's one of the significant channel markers on life's voyage, like your Sweet 16, graduation day, or your 21st birthday.

This past year, COVID-19 certainly has roiled those waters. Some have had to postpone their big days. Others have had to plot new courses. Many have scaled back on their original plans, changed venues, or even opted for virtual experiences.

And while being forced to adjust a dream is never easy, it's good to keep things in perspective. A wedding is one big day. Marriage is a lifetime.

Take my young friends Sidney and Zac. I've watched Sidney grow up since she was 6 years old. She's practically been an older sister to my son. She definitely is part of my family's adopted Louisiana clan. We have laughed together and cried together. We've enjoyed many a Mother's Day, Father's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas lunch together. Heck, we've even traveled together.

Zac came along in high school. He was a bit of a surprise, at first. We always knew there would be a

Zac. We didn't know his name, or when he'd come along, just that he would be there one day. And then the next day. And the next. One thing I have learned with this bunch: if you can hang around for a holiday and keep coming back for more, you're a keeper.

The first time I recall meeting Zac was, ironically, at Sidney's older brother's wedding. I'd heard rumblings about him before, of course. But in that first meeting, something struck me -- he didn't seem nervous to be there at all. He seemed to feel he belonged.

Through the years, we have connected over meals and conversations about sports and movies. You know, the things that make guys tick. And now I know: he does belong.

I've watched Sidney and Zac grow as individuals and as a couple. When Sidney went to LSU for college, they adapted and adjusted. When COVID came along and disrupted "normal," they adapted again.

Every time they changed course, their rudder -- faith in God and each other -- has never failed. They have matured and tapped into their hopes and dreams -including recently becoming Mr. and Mrs. Clary.

As the Clarys enter this new chapter in their lives, I wish them all the best. And to all of you planning that special day, I wish you all the happiness and joy of your wedding moment and all of the peace and prosperity of a lifetime of marriage.

Scott Anderson is the interim editor for Gumbo magazine.

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

CATERING

Pandemic food trends include individual servings, stylish presentations

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CREATIVITY

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

T

he pandemic shook up your wedding plans, but this milestone event can still be a celebration that wows your guests. Caterers and wedding planners are reimagining the wedding format to make your day even more special.

“The focus right now is on keeping everyone safe. It’s all about finding clever ways to make people feel safe and comfortable and enjoying the moment together,” said caterer and event planner Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs Caterers, with New York offices in Manhattan, Long Island and the Hamptons.

What to ask your caterer Wedding trends are gravitating more toward being socially responsible, with unique hand sanitizer stations and extra safety precautions, and away from doughnut walls and extra large wedding parties.

Be sure to discuss safety measures with your catering company, Correale said.

“Couples should ask how the catering company is managing COVID protocol, what their style of service is and what their team can comfortably and safely execute,” said Camille Ross, wedding planner and owner of Elsie Event Co. based in Austin, Texas. “They should also be asking what sanitizing standards the company is following on a daily basis along with at events.”

Ask about how many events the company has produced under current COVID19 protocols and to walk through what the cocktail hour and reception will look like if moving forward with their team, Ross said.

“The most obvious question should be to ensure that staff will be fully masked at all times, both during prep and on event day,” Ross said.

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Trends Pre-plated servings in miniature are one of the biggest trends happening.

“Even before the pandemic, we have always been firm believers that miniature versions of any item is the best thing ever,” Ross said. “Now, with added safety precautions, we can use this trend as a way to wow guests. From the most gorgeous individual cheese and charcuterie displays to individually boxed mini desserts, we have seen a sea of fabulous ideas.”

Guests are being treated to personal grazing boards as a first course to a seated dinner, which is the safest way to serve guests at this time, Ross said.

“Many clients are enhancing their entrees to include a dual protein option along with offering more elaborate desserts to finish the evening,” she said.

“The late-night snack option also gets a fancy upgrade with snazzy packaging and mini offerings like chips and queso,

“The late-night snack option also gets a fancy upgrade with snazzy packaging and mini offerings like chips and queso, doughnuts, pretzels and mini pizzas.”

doughnuts, pretzels and mini pizzas.”

“Family-style used to be a big deal, but it’s not on trend now,” Correale said.

Economical and efficient, buffet-style service has long been a wedding staple, but it’s been tweaked a bit. In addition to Plexiglas shields, the buffet is fully staffed with servers, Correale said.

Rather than just making the best of it, people are getting creative.

“We recently had a bride eliminate cocktail hour completely and offered her guests plated appetizers instead of the passed version,” Ross said. “The club created beautiful plating and it added a course to the meal, enhancing the experience.”

Another client created a sweet picnic for an intimate event with boxed and branded meals for everyone.

“The catering silver linings have kept the industry creative, in all honesty,” Ross said.

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

Something for everyone Gown trends run the gamut from runway-ready to relaxed

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

B

ridal dress trends for 2021 include show-stopping sparkle, statement sleeves and relaxed styling, no matter whether a wedding is a large affair or a more intimate gathering.

"Brides still want to have their bridal moment," said Heather McReynolds, divisional merchandise manager for bridal, outerwear and flower girl, David's Bridal. "Some brides are definitely reimagining what that looks like if they have transitioned their plans to a minimony/micro wedding, but others are opting to still hold to their original wedding look even if their wedding has become a smaller, more intimate celebration."

Because of the pandemic there's a large focus on more casual, relaxed styling in gowns as well as little white dresses, McReynolds said.

"Accessories have been a big part of the minimony trend, such as personalized jean jackets to announce your new Mrs. status or 'here comes the bride' loungewear," she said. "Personally, this is a trend that I love because it allows brides to have a beautiful wedding look but not overshadow the intimacy of the ceremony and celebration."

Magical details A favorite trend going strong for the past few seasons, gowns that sparkle and shine bring plenty of bling to the party.

"What I love about it is that it really runs the gamut from bold and glamorous high shine, blingy crystals to more subdued tonal beading and sparkle accents," McReynolds said. "One of the newest ways we have incorporated this into our collections is utilizing all-over and patterned glitter tulles and organzas as layering to give beautiful

APRIL - JUNE 2021

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sparkle and dimension to the gowns."

From shimmering bodices to beaded waistlines and other dreamy details, these gowns look great in natural lighting and photograph beautifully.

Weddings represent some muchneeded optimism, and one of McReynolds' favorite trends for celebration is modern fairy tale.

"I think the idea of a bride getting her happily ever after and celebrating her fairy tale ending is still so prevalent, especially in these unpredictable times," she said.

"A romance gives everyone the chance to be true optimists."

With cinched waists and overflowing skirts, frothy princess-style ball gowns bring the romance, but modern brides are also thoughtful about their choices' sustainability.

"As we navigate these very unique and challenging times I think it has reminded us of the things that are most important in life, namely our partners, family and friends," McReynolds said. "Celebrating the love that two people have for one another and starting this new chapter/journey together is even more cherished and precious now. It gives people a reason to come together and celebrate something beautiful and joyous."

Throwback In a nod to '80s fashion, fuller-volume sleeves are seeing a resurgence.

"Think Princess Diana's wedding dress, but with a contemporary expression," McReynolds said. "Voluminous sleeves are the next evolution for brides. It offers fun coverage options, and the best part is most of our puffy sleeves are removable, offering an easy way to change up your bridal look from ceremony to reception."

Inclusivity is also on trend, and David's Bridal collections are available in sizes 0 to 30W with no upcharge for plus sizes, said Callie Canfield, vice president of marketing and communications for David's Bridal.

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PHOTOS COURTESY DAVID’S BRIDAL

APRIL - JUNE 2021

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

BIGSTOCK

Benefits of a

small wedding

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

T

he times may have shrunk the size of your wedding, but an intimate celebration can be more memorable, meaningful and safe.

Compared to a bigger wedding, a smaller one will be less stressful because it reduces the worry about sickness and germs, said Samantha Sands, a bridal consultant at the White Flower Bridal Boutique in San Diego.

“You spend more time with the people that really matter and celebrate with those closest with you and your partner, she said. “Any time there is a smaller wedding, it’s more about you and your partner, rather than dinner, drinks, dancing, the crazy cousin, etc.”

While not all friends and family will make the guest list, you should still send them an invitation but with the date, time and a live-streaming link instead of the location and other inperson wedding details.

“This ensures no one is APRIL - JUNE 2021

left out,” Sands said.

To assure your memories are captured in the highest-quality way, hire a professional videographer, said Clay Vaughan, CEO and founder of Reverent Wedding Films.

“Streaming your wedding isn’t something you expected you would have to do, but for close family members who may be unable to travel, they should be able to experience at least a few

The most user-friendly DIY solution would be the Mevo camera, which can be purchased on Amazon for a few hundred dollars.”

Location options for smaller weddings should begin with outdoor spaces if weather permits, Sands said.

“Nature enhances the beauty of the wedding. However, smaller events can rent out bigger Airbnbs, big backyards, a ranch or even a really nice small “Streaming your wedding isn’t venue space/ressomething you expected you taurant,” she said. would have to do, but for close Nature is the best family members who may be way to decorate if unable to travel, they should be hosting a wedding able to experience at least a few at a home, Sands said. Positioning moments of your day with you.” the bride and groom EMILY DILL under a nice big tree for the cermoments of your day with you,” emony is a perfect touch. said Emily Dill, wedding coordina“Couples can also decorate by tor at Reverent Wedding Films. planting some plants and flowers Vaughan recommends finding a weeks before the wedding around venue that offers access to Wi-Fi. their venue space if the venue per“You can stream over LTE or mits,” she said. “If the wedding is cellular data, but the quality will indoors, you can’t go wrong with be reduced dramatically,” he said. a lot of greenery, candles and a lit “At the very least, it is important to fireplace. Guests can interact with set up a dedicated phone or comeach other with different stations puter with an external webcam that set up, such as a fireplace s’mores could be put on a stand or tripod. station, cornhole, dinner buffet/ — 12.—

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potluck, and a small dance floor in the backyard.”

With fewer guests your budget may stretch farther.

“Splurge on your honeymoon! Plan a smaller honeymoon during COVID-19, then within the next year or two have a second honeymoon where you have the possibility to go out of the country,” Sands said. “You can also splurge on dinner items, a DJ, more alcohol or even save it for a down payment on a house.”

With a small guest count couples can be more creative with food, flowers and other elements. Add a flower wall for photos, hire a food truck or socially distant food stations, offer personalized welcome gifts, and plan other thoughtful details and activities.

Give meaningful favors people can enjoy after the wedding.

“Some recommendations are a small succulent plant that says ‘let love grow,’ a candle or hand sanitizer that says ‘in sickness and in health,’” Sands said.

Most important are the couples’ vows, the bride’s dress and whether guests had a good time.

“Those are the three things that everyone remembers,” she said. “Everything else is important and beautiful, but don’t stress too much about those aspects of the venue and wedding.”

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uncertain times P

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

lanning a wedding requires hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made these choices more challenging.

“Things will one day go back to normal, but for now wedding couples are being creative,” said David Berke, founder of eWed Insurance and previously a managing partner for 20 years at wedding brand Colin Cowie.

Flexibility is key when planning your budget, guest list, location, date and other elements, said Brian Worley, creative director and owner of B. Worley Productions.

“Even without COVID-19, I always tell my clients to just have fun, and this is a time when that is even more important,” he said. “No one knows what should be happening at a wedding other than the couple getting married and a few others, so go with the flow.

If something is late or changes happen last minute, don’t get worked up about it and just enjoy.

“Those couples that put the wedding day on a pedestal often fall from the pedestal because, like most things in life, nothing is ever perfect, but you sure can have fun and let it be as amazing as possible.”

When something changes Wedding insurance provides peace of mind against the cost of cancelling an event due to unforeseeable events like a fire or flood, vendor no-shows, illness or injury.

So if a guest breaks a leg on the dance floor, your gifts are stolen or the floral shop declares bankruptcy, cancellation and liability insurance will provide protection.

“There’s been a huge uptick in people interested in wedding insurance now that we’re living in uncertain times,” Berke said. “Wedding insurance doesn’t cover every scenario, but not having wedding coverage means nothing is covered.”

It’s also a small spend, with microwedding (typically fewer than 50 people) insurance available from eWed for $75.

If something happens and you do need to change a previously announced wedding date, take it in stride.

APRIL - JUNE 2021

RENT MY WEDDING

How to plan a wedding in

“Postponing a wedding is so common and expected these days, I think that emailing the guest list has become a totally acceptable way to let everyone know and keep them up to date,” Worley said. “I don’t think that there is a negative thought that comes with postponing a wedding, and we are now so conditioned to this being the norm it is acceptable.”

Be prepared to negotiate with your vendors if changes need to be made, Berke said. Be proactive. Ask what will happen to your deposit.

“Negotiate what’s fair. It’s not fair for either side to bear 100% of the cost,” he said. “Negotiate before making a deposit. If you do it after, you have no leverage.”

Health and safety Weddings are all about enjoying friends and family, and while social distancing on the dance floor can kill the vibe, people need to stay safe, Berke said.

Consider an outdoor wedding if possible. Encourage guests to abide by social distancing precautions from seating to the celebration, and make them clear. Communicate in advance on invitations and wedding websites and at the event with signage. Let them know if you will be providing masks or if they should bring their own.

Follow local and national guidelines, and check for updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“It would be best to inform your guests ahead of time how you want them spaced — even on the dance floor,” Berke said.

“Once the guests start to drink, eat and dance, the masks do come off and it is very difficult to police the crowd,” Worley said.

Throwing two parties is common, Worley said. If your planning leads you to a “minimony” or a “twoand-a-few” event now, a sequel celebration or a blowout anniversary party could be in your future.

“To me it is a win-win and you still get married now and don’t have to wait, but you also have something to look forward to. It is a glass half full situation,” Worley said.

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Incorporate heirlooms into your big day

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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A

dding a family heirloom into your wedding day signifies an appreciation for the past and hope for the future.

“Incorporating an heirloom piece into a wedding, whether it be with the fashion or the décor, is an act of carrying on or starting a family tradition,” said Maya Holihan, founder and CEO of EWedded, a resale marketplace for the wedding industry. “It’s a recognition of seasoned love and life and bonds it to the start of new love and life.

It represents the preservation and passing on of fond memories, a legacy and perhaps family values.”

Refashioning elements of a relative’s gown or incorporating an heirloom feature into a bride’s gown is trending up, she said.

Use careful thought and

planning when adding an heirloom and try these tips: • Redesign a vintage veil for a more modern look.

• Deconstruct the fabric from an heirloom gown and blend with new fabric to achieve an original look.

• Use fabric from an heirloom gown to make a jacket, bolero or shawl for the bride.

• Sew pieces of family heirloom

gowns to the inside of a new gown. Create a patchwork look in the shape of a heart.

• Sew or pin a special brooch or locket with family photos into the skirt of a gown or inside a groom’s jacket.

• Sew in a family monogram or crest.

• Wear heirloom jewelry.

• Leave the reception in a family member’s vintage car or boat.

• Use heirloom pieces like vintage cameras or picture frames for wedding day décor.

• Exchanging vows on family land is another way to celebrate a family’s journey and roots.

• If making alterations seek out a skilled seamstress. “You will then have an heirloom garment to pass down to a future daughter or another woman in your family,” said the Happily Altered After podcast host and author.

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

PHOTOS COURTESY MEN’S WEARHOUSE

Look your

best

Groom fashion options include classic and comfy styles

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

F

rom classic elegance to modern boldness, grooms are striding down the aisle showing off their style.

Smaller and more intimate gatherings have increased the trend toward informality, but that doesn’t mean the groom can’t look like a true gentleman.

“We will continue to see not only the demand for the classic tuxedo and suit, as well as coatless looks, as grooms lean into casualization and comfort trends,” said Jerry Brandehoff, senior vice president/general merchandise manager for Men’s Wearhouse and Moores Clothing for Men. In addition to a man’s fashion disposition, attire selection is greatly influenced by location.

“For a beach wedding, easier and more casual textiles like linen can adapt to the theme and still look elegant and appropriate,” Brandehoff said. “With the increase of outdoor weddings, a navy blue suit with a crisp, white dress shirt with or without a tie — and possibly a pocket square — is always a timeless look.”

Fit and color Modern men are looking for a classic yet slimmer-fit suit, which exudes confidence with its detailed elements. The coat should sit right on the shoulder; the pant should break right at the top of the shoe.

“The days of wearing tuxes two sizes larger are gone, and we think men are realizing that a tux that fits properly will actually be more flattering than a tux that’s too big,” Brandehoff said.

Men’s Wearhouse’s most popular silhouette is the two-button notch collar, and the modern peak lapel is also trending, Brandehoff said.

“Given social media, men are taking cues constantly, which in turn pushes their knowledge of fashion and personal style forward,” he said.

Color choices and patterns abound, but black or gray will never go out of style, Brandehoff said.

“However, a tuxedo in midnight blue is an ideal APRIL - JUNE 2021

hue, striking the right balance between unique and classic,” he said. “Add a contrasting black satin notch or peak lapel to the jacket, pair it with a crisp formal shirt and black bow tie, and you will have a formal look suitable for even James Bond.”

For summer weddings, consider a white formal jacket, which can be the perfect choice for a memorable event.

“Be sure to ground the look with classic black tuxedo trousers,” Brandehoff said.

For a more adventurous look, printed separates give the option for distinct and elegant patterns such as foulard or modern paisley, Brandehoff said.

Extra touches Accessories can make a suit break out from the norm.

“Although the landscape has become more casual with men pairing traditional silk black ties with their tuxes, or no neckwear at all, we still find that a classic silk black bow tie is the most elegant selection,” Brandehoff said. “Suspenders are adding flair and personality as the coatless look has become more popular.”

Shoe options are continuing to evolve, with patent smoking slippers and lace-ups for a more formal occasion, to wingtips, cap toes and brogues for a casual affair, often now paired with no-show socks, Brandehoff said.

Men’s Wearhouse offers several shopping options including BOPIS (buy online, pick up in store), appointments, contactless measurement, ship-tohome and curbside pickup to make it faster, safer and easier for customers to buy or rent their attire.

“In addition, we know that style and fit are two important factors when selecting a rental tuxedo or suit, so we launched a virtual try-on option earlier this year, giving customers the opportunity to see how they look in the product without leaving home,” Brandehoff said.

The virtual try-on allows customers to upload a photo of themselves to see how the tuxedo or suit will look. Orders can be completed entirely through the website and shipped directly to the customer.

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

What is a

minimony?

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

I

f you’re postponing your big day, a “minimony” might be a positive solution to the upsetting circumstances. Get married now with fewer guests in attendance and celebrate later with a bigger wedding when the time is right to gather safely in larger numbers.

A minimony is just what it sounds like: a small ceremony to make a marriage legal and celebratory, with a larger sequel wedding to follow, said Esther Lee, senior editor at The Knot.

“The frequency of minimonies have certainly increased with the onset of the coronavirus,” she said. “This spring — just as so many couples were grappling with postponements and much uncertainty around their nuptials — The Knot team came together to work through terms that would help our users navigate the act of postponing and planning a wedding during a pandemic. It was during this time the term ‘minimony’ was born, and now it’s become one of the most commonly used event formats of COVID-19.”

APRIL - JUNE 2021

BIGSTOCK

Minimony or microwedding?

“Guest count is the biggest differentiator between a minimony and a microwedding,” Lee said. “Since many couples are moving forward with legalizing their marriage first before an intimate group of loved ones with social distancing protocols and safety measures in mind, even smaller events are seeing nuanced differences. Minimonies are comprised of anywhere between five and 20 loved ones, while microweddings consist of up to 50 guests.”

Smaller doesn’t have to mean less. By their very nature mimonies are more personal and include the same cherished elements of a larger wedding such as flowers, first dance and cake cutting.

“The average spend on a microwedding is about the same as that of a typical wedding. It’s simply the couple’s preference to have less guests and pour greater cost into individual guest experiences,” Lee said.

That could translate to a Michelin starrated chef, personalized poetry per guest — 20.—

or a unique performance, she said.

“A second differentiator between the microwedding and the minimony is the attachment of the eventual sequel wedding, which we’ll be seeing with increased frequency among those couples who’ve opted to legally marry and throw a massive reception later. As it’s industry standard for most vendors to now be using such terminology, we recommend couples also become well acquainted with these various options,” Lee said.

Common factors Whatever type and size wedding is chosen, couples are now opting to include components like live-streaming the ceremony and prepared favors delivered to each guest, especially those who are unable to attend in person, Lee said.

Couples should work together with their vendors to be mindful of social distancing and safety measures and to be considerate of their guests as it relates to COVID-19 safety precautions, she said. More than

“The average spend on a microwedding is about the same as that of a typical wedding.

It’s simply the couple’s preference to have less guests

70% of wedding guests want to know health and safety information before responding with their RSVPs for upcoming weddings, according to The Knot 2020 Wedding Guest Study.

“Factors to influence their decision include information about masked staffers and vendors, the availability of hand sanitizers and socially distanced seating. These are considered the most essential health precautions,” Lee said. “Use your wedding website and communicate frequently.

“Finally, it’s a tough time for many, so show grace, communicate and be solution-oriented.

It’ll make a big difference.”

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and pour greater cost into individual guest experiences.”

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How to trim a

GUEST LIST

virtually. Through live streaming guests may be able to make toasts at the reception or take part in group dances he new reality is that most weddings will be or virtual photo booths with in-person downsized due to social distancing guideguests, said Summer, author of “Poise Over lines. The important thing to remember is Panic: How to Plan a Wedding in a Pandemic.” that it’s not your fault, but you do have to “In the current environment filled with so many figure out how to scale back your guest list. unknowns, we recommend couples have contingency “The event can still be just as enjoyable and fanplans in place and break their guest list into tiers so that if tastic if you need to trim the guest they need to trim their list, they list,” said San Francisco-based are ready to do so,” Joshi said. wedding consultant Ivy Sum“The easiest people to cut mer, founder of Voulez Events. are plus-ones,” Summer “Couples should keep in mind the said. “People will understand reason they are getting married and that you would if you could, the love they share,” said Vishal Joshi, but under these unforeseefounder and CEO of Joy, a wedding able circumstances, you’ll planning and technology company have to limit your list.” based in San Francisco. “With that at Eliminate guests who the forefront their wedding will be one might have been courof the most special days of their lives no tesy invites, Joshi said. matter how many guests are present.”

“When reducing guest count “In the current it is easier to start from the environment filled with ground up, decide who you Decide on a count, then prioritize want to invite and once you so many unknowns, we If a couple only feels comhave reached your capacity, recommend couples fortable inviting 10 or 20 people, stop there,” he said. “This way have contingency plans then immediate family may fill the you aren’t debating each perlist. If the guest list is 50 people, the in place and break their son you are cutting from your couple will need to prioritize relalist, but rather prioritizing the guest list into tiers so tives, close friends and the people people you want to attend.” that if they need to trim most important to them, Joshi said.

“Our advice to couples is this: Think ‘Guests will their list, they are ready of who you absolutely can’t imagine understand’ to do so.” your wedding without,” he Because traditional said. “For most couples, this VISHAL JOSHI wedding etiquette has gone out is their immediate family, the window amid COVID-19, other special family members such as grand grandbe honest with your guests. Don’t worry about hurtparents, and their very closest of friends. ing their feelings if you need to reduce the guest count.

We recommend couples decide the guest “Guests will understand that they are prioritizing safety count they and their families feel com comand will likely even be relieved if they were on the fence fortable with, then go from there.” about attending given health concerns,” Joshi said.

As with all weddings, there may Communicate with guests early and often if wedbe guests who are ding plans are changing, as guests will also have quesunable to attend, tions and will appreciate the updates, he said. but they may –C– be able to participate

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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APRIL - JUNE 2021

Changing I

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

How to transition your bridal look to a new season

times

f you’ve postponed your wedding day, some alterations may be necessary to transition your wedding fashion to a new season.

“For brides who have had to postpone their wedding date but who have already bought their dress, there are many styling ideas for turning a spring or summer gown into a fall- or winterappropriate outfit,” said Genevieve Foddy, owner and designer at Genevieve Rose Atelier, New York City. “With clever styling and a few new accessories, there is no need to purchase a new dress.

“The last couple of seasons we have seen a growing trend in bridal layering and outerwear — capes, capelets, shrugs and stoles — ranging from sheer and embroidered organza styles to more substantial faux fur pieces and even beautiful, light-as-air, cozy mohair knitwear. Adding a layer to an existing dress will instantly give warmth and change the seasonal style of the dress,” Foddy said.

Choosing a classic gown that will look beautiful in one year or 20 makes transitioning to a new season less complicated, said Anna Hess, founder and lead event designer at Anna Hess Events, Delray Beach, Florida.

“A bride’s best bet is to go with a gown that is timeless,” she said.

Summer to winter

PHOTOS COURTESY GENEVIEVE ROSE ATELIER, NEW YORK CITY

Swapping out accessories can easily change the look of a wedding dress purchased for a different season.

“For spring brides transitioning to a cooler-month wedding, add seasonal warmth and texture with accessories

APRIL - JUNE 2021

— 24.—

in wintery fabrics like velvet, faux fur and duchess satin,” Foddy said. “This could be a birdcage veil with a velvet headband, a more substantial felt headpiece or pillbox hat, or a headpiece with a little extra wintery sparkle.”

Substitute bridal sandals for a decadent pair of beaded pumps or even booties to winterize a look.

“I also absolutely love the addition of gloves. Choose a streamlined glove style in organza or point d’esprit,” Foddy said.

Fall to spring Follow the opposite styling trends when converting a winter or fall look to summer or spring by choosing hair accessories and shoes in lighter styles and materials, such as strappy sandals, floral headpieces and simple or no jewelry, Foddy said.

“Very few wedding dresses are truly winter weight, but for those with substantial coverage, a trip to a good seamstress can tell you if sleeves can be removed or replaced in a lighter fabric as well as if a hem can be taken up a couple of inches to create a lighter look,” she said.

“A great seamstress is a must. Ask bridal shops or planners for local expertise,” Hess said. Keep in mind that beading work and other intricate alterations take time.

The overall color scheme can often be easily reinterpreted for a new season using different materials for both linens and florals, Foddy said.

“If your date changes to a fall or winter date, you can consider adding an additional darker color that goes with your established theme,” Hess said. “If your date now falls in the spring or summer, consider adding a lighter and brighter color to the mix.”

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JULY - SEPTEMBER 2020

Ideas for an

eco-friendly wedding Reusable decor was exclusively used for this wedding.

A draped canopy was paired with hanging chandeliers and amber wedding lighting. Most guests didn’t even realize there were no fresh flowers, printed programs or signage.

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

F

or people who love the environment, a typical wedding can seem pretty wasteful. If you do your research, plan ahead and work with eco-friendly vendors, you won’t have to compromise your green ideals to have your dream wedding.

Small changes can make a big impact, and it’s easier and less expensive than people realize, said JoAnn Moore, owner of JoAnn Moore Wedding, Design and Event Planning in Vail, Colorado.

“Going green is really taking a hit due to the current situation, but hopefully after COVID19 it will come back,” said Moore, whose motto is “Reuse, repurpose, recycle.”

There are countless ways to go green. Instead of buying, rent wedding attire from sites like PreOwnedWeddingdDresses.com or Stillwhite.com, wear an heirloom dress or tuxedo, or choose environmentally friendly wedding and engagement rings.

Consider a lab-created diamond or other gemstone that is more ethically sourced, Moore said.

“Rent whatever you can unless you have a purpose for it afterward,” she said.

“Eco-friendly is a trend that’s here to stay,” said Marie Kubin, CEO of Rent My Wedding, a nationwide online wedding rental company. “Rentals have become even more popular in light of the pandemic.”

Some of the top items people rent for weddings to be more eco-friendly include LED wedding lighting, backdrops, chair covers and digital photo booths, Kubin said.

“Couples thinking about hosting a green wedding should start by making a list of every vendor and every service/product needed,” she said. “From there, examine each line item and think about whether it can be done in a more eco-friendly way. For example, if you intended JULY - SEPTEMBER 2020

to have custom printed napkins, consider standard linen napkins instead. When it comes to florals, think about going faux or reusable options such as potted plants that guests can take home after the wedding.”

Wedding invitations are practically a necessity for formal wedings, but choose materials that can be recycled, Moore said. One popular choice is invitations that are embedded with wildflower seeds that guests can plant, she said.

Skip the wedding programs, which usually end up in the trash, and write out the schedule of events on a wooden board or poster.

For flowers opt for a local florist and in-season blooms, and donate the flowers afterward to a senior center or hospital, Moore said.

Be creative. For one wedding, Moore rented two trees to be placed inside the wedding venue “to bring the outside in.” She wrapped the dirt clods in color-coordinated linens, then after the event the trees were returned to the nursery and sold.

Forgo decorations entirely by planning an outdoor wedding, but be sure to have a backup plan in case of weather, Moore said. You’ll cut down on energy use, and natural light is great for pictures.

Google wedding sites in your area and check with local park districts and forest preserves.

Check area licensing and permitting to avoid penalties, Moore said. Any fees can be considered a contribution to conservation, she added.

Donating leftover food is difficult, but consider your options.

“As many venues and vendors are aware of the need for eco-friendly elements to entice potential customers, I typically work with restaurants and wedding reception venues who grow their own food, mulch the scraps to use in their onsite garden, don’t have plastic water bottles on site, have recycling trash cans in their rooms for guests and use other standards that raise the bar as to their awareness and working toward going green,” Moore said.

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