Wedding Belles 2022

CREATIVE IDEAS FOR

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LOCAL WEDDINGS

HOW TO CUT COSTS BUT NOT STYLE

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EDITORIAL DALE EDWARDS, DYLAN PHILLIPS, TERRY HARRIS, ALINA MOODY, DIANA MCFARLAND, PATIENCE ERGISH, LUCI WELDON, DEBRA FERRELL, JAMI SNEAD, A.S. ELLIOTT, ADAM POWELL

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WELCOME LETTER The journey to getting married is filled with important decisions. In addition to the dress, there’s the cake, the venue, the menu, the guest list, flowers, photography, deejay, rings, and honeymoon destination. Saying “I do,” might be the easiest part. It doesn’t have to be so stressful, though. Welcome to Wedding Belles: 2022 edition, presented to you by Womack Publishing Co. In the following pages, you will find a plethora of stories and guides to introduce you to trendy and traditional options, and help navigate you through the process of making choices that best reflect who you are and what your relationship is about.

You’ll be impressed with — and amazed by — what you can find all over Virginia and North Carolina, including an eclectic collection of wedding spaces, custom jewelers, and awe-inspiring cake makers.

Whether your plans are for an intimate gathering, or you’re looking to make it a big-time event, there’s nothing this region can’t provide to meet the needs of your plans for your wedding.

Beautiful

photographs

and

professionally

written stories illustrate the simple, yet elegant southern styles featured in the Wedding Belles magazine. You will also enjoy readers’ thoughts and experiences while taking inspiration from their decisions. Don’t hesitate to use the magazine as a checklist to ensure the most memorable and happy experience leading up to your big day.

Whether the day you walk down the aisle is right around the corner or a little further on the horizon, make Wedding Belles a part of the wedding party, and make the most of the planning process. •

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IN THIS ISSUE

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2022

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WEDDING BELLES

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A Match Made at the Mill Venue beautifully blends industrial and elegance

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Perfection, No Matter How You Slice It Your wedding cake should be an attention-getter

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Planning for a Micro Wedding 10 ways to help you plan your perfect micro wedding

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Saving Your Sanity Advice for keeping your cool while planning your wedding

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Danville Golf Club Venue feature

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2022-2023 Bridal Trends What to expect in bridal fashion this year

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Oakhaven Venue feature

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Throw a Line Over the Top of the House, Pull Together Celebrating 75 years together

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Timeless Traditions Make a wedding day special

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The Barn at Lloyd’s Dairy Venue feature

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Travel & Adventure A couple’s recipe for a happy marriage

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Wedding Party 101 The Silhouette Guide

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5 Ways to Save on Your Wedding Dress Budget-shopping hacks

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Built For Love No matter the trend, the ring is made from the relationship

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Bridal Beauty Countdown Planning for your perfect day

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It Was Supposed To Be an Interview Mark & Mindy’s love story

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Southern Grace Wedding & Events Helping people celebrate life’s most cherished moments

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Wedding Style Explore various wedding trends during planning

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Saving Strategies Avoid a post-wedding financial hangover

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Wedding Planner A couple’s best asset

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On the Cover Tyler and Kasey Shields’ wedding on November 6, 2021 at Danville Golf Club.

Photograph by Jessica Lyons /Lauren Lane Photography.

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Photo Credit | Set in a historic mill building, the Cloth Mill features gorgeous hardwood floors, high ceilings, exposed brick and exposed beams that provide a unique, yet chic look.

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STORY BY DALE EDWARDS

A MATCH MADE AT THE MILL: Venue beautifully blends industrial & elegance Photos courtesy of Danielle Defayette Photography. continued on next page

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On paper, you wouldn’t think it would work, mixing the formality of bridal dresses, tuxedos, floral arrangements, and champagne glasses with the hard surfaces and edges of an industrial mill. But the marriage of the two creates chic urban elegance that is unexpected, stunning, and memorable.

The Cloth Mill in Hillsborough is a shining example of this remarkable partnership. The wedding venue is near the heart of this quiet, quirky historic town in North Carolina. The building features exposed brick, massive windows, original wood beams, and tons of character to make it the perfect place for your wedding or special event.

The Cloth Mill, which is part of the Eno River Mill, is owned and operated by Nicole Clayton, a New York transplant, who moved to North Carolina to start the bartending service, On The Rocks Bartending. Her

fondness for urban and industrial venues — and the lack of such options in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area — led her to exploring the idea of opening her own space. Clayton opened the Cloth Mill in December 2015.

The Eno River Mill first opened in 1897 as a yarn mill and eventually sold cloths through Cone Export Commission Co. In WWII, the mill produced heavier textiles for the army. The cloth mill became part of Cone Mills Inc., in nearby Greensboro in 1952. The mill ended operations and closed in 1984. The Gold family acquired the mill in 1988 and began operating as The Hillsborough Business Center, leasing out the spaces.

Clayton discovered the space through a listing online.

“I checked it out the same day and fell in love, and I was like, ‘Sold,’” Clayton said.

Photo Credit | The Cloth Mill encourages guests to get playful and have fun by providing unexpected treats, like swings.

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The Cloth Mill provides guided planning that removes the pressure and burden from the wedding couple. One ceremony is planned per day, so couples need not feel rushed. The venue features gorgeous natural lighting, warm market lighting, and spacious outdoor areas with plenty of ideal locations for photography. Soft astroturf has been installed to provide a lush, green landscape throughout the year. There’s even a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and a two-person swing, perfect for fun and romantic photos.

“Couples are definitely going big with their guest count, design, and food and beverage,” Clayton said. “2021 was a crazy-busy year and 2022 is going to be the same.

(I’m) Super thankful for getting through the pandemic shut down and still able to provide an awesome space for couples to get married.”

The bridal suite and the groom’s suite have private bathrooms, leather sofas, and TVs to provide a comfortable place to hang out before the big event.

Wedding packages at the Cloth Mill include in-house bar tending services, three custom, portable bars, chairs for 250 guests, tables, in-house draping, access to the courtyard, two dressing suites with private bathrooms, and plenty of free parking.

“We allow our couples to have the wedding that they want to have and not what someone else is telling them to have. We allow them to be creative and let their personalities shine on their big day,” Clayton added.

For more information about the Cloth Mill, go to: www.theclothmill.com. •

Photo Credit | The venue has an outdoor area with artificial grass to ensure the perfect setting no matter the time of the year.

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STORY BY DYLAN PHILLIPS

Perfection, no matter how you slice it Choosing the right cake for your wedding celebration is important. So, it just makes sense to go with a baker who takes a personal approach – and Super Moist Cakes out of Mebane does just that.

Owner and operator Myriam Trujillo started Super Moist Cakes around six years ago, but began baking as a hobby over 30 years ago, when she attended a baking class as a way to kill some time while she was advised to take it easy during the final two months of her first pregnancy.

That hobby blossomed into a love for baking and, then, into Super Moist Cakes. Trujillo runs the business out of her home and primarily bakes wedding cakes, birthday cakes and cupcakes.

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Super Moist Cakes can create wedding cakes ranging from a two-tier cake for 50 guests to a six-tier cake for 200 guests.

Super Moist Cakes’ mission is “to make the wedding cake of your dreams with elegant artistry and highquality ingredients.” Trujillo prides herself on giving couples her utmost attention, only doing one wedding cake each week to ensure every couple, every time gets the best cake she has to offer.

“If I get a weekend that I have a wedding cake to do, then I don’t do any birthday cakes or anything because that’s the time for the bride, and I respect that because it’s very serious to me in my business,” she said.

Photo Credit | Custom wedding cakes created by Myriam Trujillo, who owns Super Moist Cakes in Mebane, N.C.

Usually, couples have an idea of what they want and Trujillo sees it as her job to help them narrow it down to the right cake, offering taste testing up to three flavors on Sundays – normally hosting only one tasting each Sunday, to ensure each couple gets her sole focus.

Trujillo touched on some of the wedding cake trends she’s seeing, as weddings are now taking place more frequently following the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted many couples she’s worked with in the Triangle and Triad areas have recently been going with smaller cakes.

“It’s more going toward the Swan cake, one- or twotier cake and cupcakes… The majority [of requests],

from last year to this point, are for one small six-inch or eight-inch cake for the picture and then cupcakes,” she said.

This trend doesn’t have to do with smaller crowds at weddings, Trujillo believes, because couples are ordering large numbers of cupcakes. She said it seems that folks are going the smaller cake and cupcake route because it is much less hassle. However, Trujillo doesn’t foresee cupcakes completely taking the place of wedding cakes any time soon.

More information on Super Moist Cakes can be found at supermoistcakes.com/wedding-cakes. Trujillo can be reached at supermoistcakes@gmail.com or at (919)-649-3714. •

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STORY BY TERRY HARRIS

Planning for a Micro Wedding Your wedding should be a joyous celebration of the beginning of your personal “Happily ever after.” But if you’re reeling from all the details and expense of preparing for a traditional wedding, a micro wedding might be just the thing for you!

Micro weddings generally include only 25-50 guests, and what they have in common is that they generally are less expensive and can provide a more meaningful and personal experience for you and your guests.

Does this mean abandoning all the elements of a traditional wedding? Absolutely not! It just means giving yourself the freedom to include traditions that have special meaning for you, skip any that do not, and add personal touches that will make your wedding day uniquely yours.

Elizabeth Dunlow of Wedding Planning NC suggests, “To create the vision you want for your fairy tale wedding, start with one inspiration – colors, flowers, food, or any other piece. Then sit down with your husband-to-be and prioritize what really matters to the two of you, because at the end of the day, nothing else matters.”

With that in mind, here are 10 points to help you go all-in on details as you plan your own perfect micro wedding.

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Photo Credit | The pond, the trees, the hand hewn altar, and lovely floral sprays make a perfect setting for Jo Ann Rose and Cliff Forbes’ sunset wedding | Carol Hedspeth/ Conway Photo Shop

Choose a Venue.

A smaller guest list allows you to choose a place especially meaningful to you - the back yard of your childhood home, the restaurant or gallery where you first met, the top of a mountain, or even a waterfall deep in the jungle! Even with a small guest list you can still live-stream the ceremony to bring more friends and family into the day.

Decide who to invite.

Limit your guest list to only those truly close to you. “Thinking long and hard about how close your relationships are will help ensure you are truly comfortable with those you surround yourselves with on your wedding day,” advises Dunlow.

“Consider people who you have had in your house in the last two years, who you share calls and texts with, who check on you. That’s who you invite.”

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Photo Credit | Close family and friends watch as Arlie Harris and Angus Hucknall head from the ceremony to the reception down the “aisle” her Daddy cut through the soybean field for their wedding celebration | Photo by Betty Harris

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Your flowers - simple, classic or avant-garde?

With a micro wedding, anything goes. From simple table bouquets arranged in your grandmother’s antique vase collection to sprays on an altar arch to elaborate clusters suspended from the ceiling, your unique use of flowers need only be limited by your imagination and your budget.

About the cake...

If your dream wedding features an elaborate, tiered cake, you certainly can have a small one. On the other hand, consider substituting other sweets like specialty cupcakes or cookies, a pie station, or a donut wall. You can even choose individually boxed cake slices with a cute bow for guests to pick up as favors when they leave.

Photo Credit | A less formal wedding with only close friends and relatives provides the perfect opportunity to get creative and have some fun with your menu and serving options | Carol Hedspeth/Conway Photo Shop

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Photo Credit | Hand-Lettered signs reflecting your personal style can add a bit of whimsey as they lead your guests to the ceremony or other locations throughout your special day | Carol Hedspeth/Conway Photo Shop

Make the food memorable.

Whether you serve simple refreshments or a seated meal, sharing something to eat and drink with your guests is one tradition you’ll likely want to keep. Think outside the box about what you and your friends would really enjoy, and whether it’s an elaborate seven course meal with expert wine pairings or tacos from a food truck this can be the most fun part of the day.

Include creative seating arrangements and place settings.

Make sure that your plans for a festive atmosphere include ways to make your guests comfortable.

With a smaller guest list, you can use large round tables, long estate tables, or even a U-shaped table set-up for greater ease of conversation among all your guests. Setting the tables with special place settings to match your wedding theme would be a great finishing touch.

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Photo Credit | Something as simple as fern-topped white pedestals underneath a big, old shade tree make this micro Southern summer wedding feel like a tip of the hat to tradition | Carol Hedspeth/ Conway Photo Shop

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Get personal.

Your limited guest list lends itself perfectly to personalized invitations. You might have them handpainted or hire a calligrapher to hand-write them for you. For a truly unique touch you can invest in engraved glass invitations. Other opportunities for your own personal touch include placing handwritten notes for each guest at their seat rather than place cards, providing hand-painted signs highlighting various things at the venue, or surprising your guests with welcome boxes containing items you and your partner love or that will remind them of the locale.

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Hire a Photographer.

No matter how small your wedding, you’ll want to invest in a photographer to document the day.

Your smaller guest list will provide more opportunities to capture the laughter, the tears, and personal moments that you’ll treasure most.”

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Hire a Day-Of Coordinator.

It’s a great idea to hire a wedding planner, even if only for coordinating the flow on the day of the event. They can keep things going smoothly so you and your friends can relax and enjoy the day.

Schedule a Last Dance.

“I always encourage a private last dance,” adds Dunlow. “I have had so many couples tell me that the one thing they remember most about their wedding day is that last chance to connect with each other alone on the dance floor. It’s just a great way to end your fairy tale wedding and begin the rest of your lives together.”

Photo Credit | A simple wreath featuring the traditional “Welcome” pineapple at the entrance to the grounds elegantly set the mood for an intimate wedding at this historic house | Carol Hedspeth/ Conway Photo Shop

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STORY BY ALINA MOODY

SAVING YOUR SANITY ADVICE FOR KEEPING YOUR COOL WHILE PLANNING YOUR WEDDING Wedding planning can often feel like an insurmountable to-do list that keeps piling up with more tasks. However, weddings are a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate the love and unity between two people; so couples shouldn’t be weighed down by undue stress in the months leading up to their nuptials.

Sometimes the simplest changes and a bit of outside help can alleviate the pressure that comes from wedding planning.

1. PRIORITIZE THE ESSENTIALS As aforementioned, wedding planning is made up of countless tasks from inviting guests to booking a caterer to picking out decor. Couples may find themselves fretting over the smallest details in the process.

While it’s fine to want everything perfect for the big day, it is nigh impossible to plan out every single detail without running yourself ragged. That’s why it’s best to prioritize the essentials. Figure out what is most important to create the wedding of your dreams.

If you’re having trouble distinguishing which details are most essential, take a step back for a moment.

Consider, “Will this matter in five years?”

Checking in with yourself in this way regularly will help you to shift your focus onto the bigger picture, rather than dwelling on the less important tasks.

2. ASK FOR HELP Much like child-rearing, it takes a village to prepare for a wedding. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your support system and ask for help. Your loved ones will be more than ready to lend a helping hand.

If you become overwhelmed carrying out tedious tasks like addressing invitations, ask a friend you can

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rely on instead. Delegate smaller tasks to those you can trust to lessen your own workload. However, be careful not to overwhelm your loved ones.

health, as will a much needed spa day.

Going for an afternoon walk while listening to music can grant you some much needed meditative time to mull things over. Alternatively, it could provide you with a moment where you don’t have to worry over your upcoming nuptials.

You may become overwhelmed once friends and family begin offering advice and opinions on your wedding. If this happens, set boundaries with them.

Telling them, “Thank you for the suggestion! I’ll think about it.” can acknowledge their sentiment while also allowing you to get off of the topic.

Most importantly, take the time to plan out a date with your loved one. Wedding planning can sometimes put a strain on the relationship due to the stress. Combat this by organizing a night off where you get out of the house for a few hours and enjoy each others’ company.

3. CREATE A PLAN B Those planning an outdoor wedding during any time of the year MUST have a Plan B, as the weather does not always cooperate.

If you’re booking a venue, make sure and clear your Plan B with the facility manager beforehand. Plan ahead what will need to change, how it will change, and what eachweddingpartymemberwilldotomakethechanges run smoothly.

For those using their own venue or who don’t have an inside alternative, a large wedding tent or awning will be the best option.

Don’t fret too much over the things that are out of your control. The weather won’t ruin your night as long as you don’t let it.

4. PRIORITIZE YOURSELF

5. REMEMBER WHY The most important tip for managing stress and

Planning a wedding is inherently stressful. Planning

cooling down while planning your wedding is to

a wedding when you haven’t been taking care of

remember your why. Don’t forget that this wedding is

yourself first is infinitely more stressful.

a celebration of you and your partner’s love for each

Taking care of yourself can include making sure you

other. You’re getting ready to marry the love of your life!

get adequate sleep, planning a relaxing spa day,

No matter what happens, at the end of the day

taking a walk in the afternoons, setting boundaries

you two will have each other and you will love every

with friends and family, or even planning a date for

minute of your wedding as long as you plan it together.

you and your partner.

Remind yourself that above all else, you two are what’s

Adequate sleep will do wonders for your mental

most important! •

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STORY BY DIANA MCFARLAND

DANVILLE GOLF CLUB Photos courtesy of Danville Golf Club One of the most dramatic moments of a wedding at the Danville Golf Club is when the bride descends the outdoor spiral staircase to meet her soon-to-be husband between the ninth and 18th holes — and in full view of the entire wedding party and guests.

“That really catches the eye ... especially with a father looking up at his daughter at the top of the stairs,” said Danville Golf Clubhouse Manager Andrew Walker.

For couples looking for a richly appointed, traditional venue with a country club atmosphere, the Danville Golf Club provides all that and more.

The Danville Golf Club’s course was designed by the legendary Donald Ross, whose work can be found at hundreds of courses throughout the United States and Canada. Its gently rolling grassy hills are a graceful backdrop for an outdoor wedding with true Southern charm.

Walker provided a tour of the clubhouse, which was built in 1916 and remodeled after a fire in the 1950s. The clubhouse still retains its original ambiance with graceful fittings and furnishings and an outdoor terrace that overlooks the golf course.

The wedding festivities can begin with the rehearsal dinner in the plush upstairs dining room that seat up to 50. There is also a cozy private room for 12, or the bar that can accommodate a standing group of 70. Wedding parties can also rent all three rooms, said Walker.

For the reception, the Danville Golf Club offers its grand ballroom with seating for up to 200 and ample room for dancing and socializing.

The ballroom boasts its own grand entrance, high ceilings, original wood floors, traditional decor, a floor-to-ceiling arched window and a handcrafted moveable bar.

The outside terrace has a private fire pit overlooking the golf course and a bar can be set up there, said Walker.

Before the wedding begins, the bride and her attendants have access to the Club’s spacious dressing rooms with showers, ample restrooms and multiple sinks to make the preparations an enjoyable experience, said Walker.

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Photo Credit | Tyler and Kasey Shields’ wedding on November 6, 2021 | Jessica Lyons/Lauren Lane Photography

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The groom and his party are treated to a richly traditional room full of comfortable leather furniture, a bar, large screen television, a pool table and a steam room.

The groom’s dressing area has been “the cherry on top,” for the guys, said Walker.

Walker said the Club works with the wedding coordinator to make it “hassle free.”

“We want to make sure your experience is superb,” he said.

The Club provides the location, tables and chairs, linens in several colors and glassware.

Food can be selected from the Club’s menu.

Couples are asked to arrange for the cake and to bring their own music set-up, but Bluetooth is available.

“The food has never been better,” said Walker, describing one wedding where live chef stations were set up for guests to have a wide-ranging sampling of tasty shrimp, tenderloin and more.

Walker said the Club hosts about 10 weddings a year and he has personally been involved with about 20 without a complaint.

“I take pride in giving 100%,” said Walker.

And couples no longer need to be a member to book a wedding at the Danville Golf Club.

Walker encourages couples to shop around so they can realize the uniqueness and value of the Danville Golf Club. He also encourages couples and others to consider joining the Club before or after the wedding.

It’s one of the best restaurants in town for a leisurely dining experience, he said.

Walker said that beginning the wedding planning process is as easy as sending an email and he will set up a tour of the facility. To learn more, email Walker at andrewwalker@danvillegolfclub.com or call 434-792-7225. •

Photo Credit | The outdoors grounds at the Danville Golf Club, shown at top and center, provide a natural backdrop for any wedding. Seating can be arranged at the ninth and 18th holes in several ways for an outdoor wedding. The grand ballroom’s windows, pictured at bottom, provide a frame from which to begin decorating for the reception. | Courtesy of Danville Golf Club

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2022-2023

Bridal Trends

© K AV IA R GAU C HE

SUSTAINABILITY Pieces that are versatile enough to be styled differently and transition into the bride’s postwedding style is at the forefront of bridal fashion this year.

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©GALVAN LO NDO N

© CHR ISTOP HER KANE

ALTERNATIVES TO THE CLASSIC GOWN Bridal suits, mini dresses and seperates aren’t going anywhere this year. You will see these styles being worn down the aisle or as a second look

WEDDING BELLES

THE HALTER This classic yet sleek style is sure to be a showstopper.

Great for most body types and is versatile enough to be reimagined with any silhouette.

©REFO RM ATI O N

THE BRIDAL PANT Who says you can’t have comfort and style? A chic option for the fashionforward bride.

Bridal “trends” are ever-changing and unpredictable. This year is about going against the grain and choosing a silhouette that expresses your taste and your style. To help you feel well versed in how to discuss what you like we have put together a list of the top 2022-2023. That way you have the visual and vocabulary for what you are looking for before entering that bridal boutique or online website.

THE BOLD BOW The accessory that will get everyone talking. Think sweet and feminine, bold and beautiful.

COLORFUL HUES Have fun and rock a soft-tone that gives your gown a cool break from tradition.

EXPOSED CORSETS This style is usually paired with sheer tulle, lace or embroidery giving a more regal feel to this sexy style.

THE CUTOUT An easy way to take a traditional gown and make it modern. The perfect style for beach wedding.

© HA L F P ENNY LOND ON

©DANI ELLE FRANKE L

©A ND R EW KWON

©CULT GAI A

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STORY BY PATIENCE ERGISH PHOTOS COURTESY OF KAYLA JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

OAKHAVEN

Not just any average wedding venue Photo Credit | Above, Zachary Bullard with their wedding party at Oakhaven. Opposite page, shown at top, newly married, Sierra and Zachary Bullard are congratulated by the bridal party at Oakhaven.

BELOW, Bride Sierra Todd admires her bouquet at her wedding held at Oakhaven.

Located in the Triad of North Carolina’s piedmont is the wedding venue known as Oakhaven. This sprawling venue has its roots back to the 1930s, and its picturesque scenery is that of an English village. But what is it like to be a bride and have your wedding hosted on this campus? Why do brides flock to this location to be next on our calendar? To share what a bride experiences at Oakhaven we interviewed a fall bride of 2021 and here is her wedding story.

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The story begins with Sierra Todd and Zachary Bullard sharing with us about their wedding at Oakhaven.

We have included some of their romance so you, the reader will fall in love with this couple too.

It was at a Reidsville High football game in November of 2014 that Sierra and Zachary first met.

He played football for the Rockingham County High School and had come over that particular night with friends to watch the Reidsville High School game since

his team did not make the playoffs. Sierra came that night to sit in the bleachers with her girlfriends. Believe it or not, the two groups just happened to be about three feet apart. By the end of the night, Sierra and Zachary were sharing hot chocolate, but Zachary made her pay for her own which altered her first impression and confirmed he lacked debonair ways.

What would we do without social media? That night Zachary was on social media reaching out to Sierra as he was obviously impressed with her. April 2015 is the time that Sierra remembers she and Zachary really started dating. They enjoyed four-wheeling and just about anything that meant they were together. They dated five years before Zachary proposed to Sierra on Dec. 22, 2019. Sierra remembers “he proposed to me in one of the most romantic ways anyone could.

Zachary got together with one of his talented friends and wrote a song about our life together … he had someone sing it and record it. The night he proposed, he told me we were eating at a Mexican restaurant in downtown Greensboro. Once we parked and walk down to where I thought the restaurant was I saw our family members. I figured they were going to eat with us and I thought nothing about it. Zachary grabbed my hand and led me towards a beautiful water fountain with shooting water everywhere. And I then heard the song playing in the background and Zachary gets on one knee ... of course I said yes!”

Soon after they were engaged, they scheduled a tour of Oakhaven.

“We did not visit any other venues because I knew since I was 16-years-old where I wanted to get married when that time came.” Sierra had worked for a catering company called Caterfest while in high school and through college, often coming to Oakhaven working catering jobs during those years. Zachary had also worked alongside Sierra at Caterfest coming to Oakhaven before he went off to state trooper school.

“We had fallen in love with the venue each time we worked a wedding there, and we both knew from day one where we wanted to get married,” said Sierra.

Sierra’s vision was for a rustic fall wedding. Oakhaven fit that vision perfectly and the wedding took place under our signature oak tree whose leaves were at peak with fall color. Because she planned for 22 months, she was even able to take her engagement photos in the fall season that would be the month of her wedding. The photographer captured all

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Photo Credit | Groom Zachary Bullard prepares for his big day at Oakhaven. of Oakhaven’s beautiful scenery and the joy of Sierra’s choice.

During the time Sierra was in dental hygiene school, she continued to cater at Oakhaven for Caterfest.

While she was working, the staff would share with her information on unique set-ups that other brides had used. She seemed appreciative of the staff’s interest in her wedding and she remembers thinking how valuable this was in helping her with the planning process. To really cut down on this stress, Sierra hired Jeanette Wagoner with “The Wedding Day Lady” to help her prepare for her wedding date. Jeanette works independently from Oakhaven, however she only works this venue.

Known to be a hard worker, Jeanette was hired without any hesitation.

One of the other big requirements Sierra and Zachery had during their original tour included a

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venue that both of their families could stay together on site. Oakhaven had that capacity and she booked the manor which sleeps 12 and the log cabin that sleeps six. This stipulation was a strong factor in choosing Oakhaven. Sierra and Zachery said they both wanted a venue that “would fit our families and friends comfortably as they celebrated. We knew that we had loved the venue so much but we also wanted everyone else to love and enjoy it as much as we did. We knew that our families and friends would appreciate the time and effort the venue had put into keeping it as beautiful as it could be.” The couple booked the venue for Friday through Sunday. They had both the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner on site.

Sierra shared what she enjoyed most about staying on site included the ability to just hang out with the bridal party after the rehearsal dinner before splitting to prepare for the next day — the wedding ceremony.

Waking up the next morning at Oakhaven made all feel worry free because everything had been completed the day before.

“Oakhaven made our day everything we wanted it to be. If there was anything that went wrong, I knew nothing about it. The staff and Jeanette both took care of everything for my guests and family members. They were very accommodating with a shuttled golf cart service for my guests that were not able to walk down and back from the ceremony site. I have no regrets or, I wished I would have, with my wedding. Zachary and I both feel like our wedding was better than we could have ever imagined,” Sierra said.

Sierra’s closing remarks to those brides that come after her is, “I would tell a bride how easy and stressfree the whole process was with Oakhaven and tell her how dreamy it made my wedding. Not only is the venue absolutely gorgeous, it is also very romantic and a place to start your forever with your significant other.

We want other couples to be a part of the Oakhaven experience and for it to also share a special place in their hearts.”

It is an honor to know that Oakhaven’s services and spaces made the difference in another couple’s beginning of their new life together. The Oakhaven staff are grateful to Sierra and Zachery for the opportunity to host this most special occassion; their wedding day and sharing their story. •

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THROW A LINE OVER THE TOP OF THE HOUSE, PULL TOGETHER Photo Credit | Addison and Gladys Ward celebrated 75 years of marriage in March with their large, extended family. She is holding a pan that she has cooked her much loved cornbread in for decades — and its not cast iron.

In the 1940s, dating for Addison and Gladys Ward was playing checkers in the living room.

That’s where they “courted,” said the couple, who celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary in March surrounded by their huge extended family in a home with a bird’s eye view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Addison, 95, and Gladys, 94, grew up on neighboring farms near Old Woman’s Creek. Gladys thinks they must have known each other since they were seven or eight.

“I reckon we talked over the fence,” said Gladys.

In addition to courting over checkers, it was especially exciting when Addison was able to drive Gladys around in his daddy’s car. Plus he didn’t drink and worked hard, said Gladys.

“I think he fell in love first,” said Gladys with a twinkle in her eye.

The couple didn’t tell their parents they were going to get married. They went to the preacher’s house in Chatham with Gladys’ brother in tow as a witness.

There wasn’t enough money for a wedding, said Gladys.

They were married on March 1,1947.

Initially, Addison and Gladys lived at his parent’s house, but they were soon able to buy an acre of land and build a two-room house on the Gladys’ father’s farm.

Eventually, the couple purchased a farm on Blue Ridge Road, and moved the two-room house there on a truck, where it remains today.

Addison and Gladys worked hard, with him employed as a weaver and loom fixer at BGF Industries in Altavista and Gladys tending to their five children and the farm. The Wards grew tobacco, corn and wheat and had cattle, pigs and chickens. Gladys kept a huge garden and was known for making biscuits three times a day, with buttermilk churned from their own cows. She also fried chicken and a made a pot of beans at 6 a.m. to keep the farm hands fed.

When Addison got home from the mill, he worked on the farm. The Wards attended Sycamore Baptist Church and then Motley Baptist Church for 30 years, until COVID hit.

To get around, Addison had always been the driver and Gladys, who has never driven, served as the “navigator,” or “back seat driver,” according to her family.

Gladys said her father gave her a key piece of advice on marriage — “throw a line over the top of the house and you all pull together. I reckon that’s what we did.”

Both Addison and Gladys joke about the length of their marriage.

“It’s a long time to put up with one woman,” said Addison.

“Seventy-five years. Can you believe, to one man,” said Gladys.

Reaching a 75th wedding anniversary is rare, with just 6% passing their Golden (50th) wedding anniversary, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Even less make it to their 70th — less than one-tenth of one percent, according to the University of Nebraska-Omaha Center for Public Affairs Research.

Addison believes the secret to a long marriage is to keep busy.

“Work, work, work,” he said.

That and good food fueled the Wards’ marriage and their long life.

“We ate fresh out of the garden,” said Gladys, who is still known to whip up pies and casseroles.

Family members said the couple spent years going to the YMCA every day to walk a few miles and get a Hardee’s biscuit. They ran the 190-acre farm until they were in their late 80s.

In addition to their five children, Kyle, Dean, Susie, Roger and Glenda, Addison and Gladys have 10 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

The second eldest son, Dean, passed away in 2014.

Today Addison and Gladys sit side-by-side in matching wood and wicker rockers in a house full of family photos.

Daughter-in-law Donna Ward said that ever since she’s known them, Addison and Gladys have been side-by-side, touching and holding hands.

Gladys wistfully remembers their courting days, “we just fell in love.” •

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STORY BY LUCI WELDON

TIMELESS TRADITIONS make a wedding day special Today’s couples have many options to choose from as they try to plan the perfect wedding. Most likely, many will incorporate timeless traditions to make their day special.

From the wedding gown to the bouquet toss, these traditions have been passed down over the generations for so long that many couples incorporate them into their weddings and receptions without thinking about their origins.

In many cases, the traditions continue today as they have over the years. Other traditions have taken a modern twist or a new meaning. Here are just a few examples: THE WHITE WEDDING GOWN. As soon as a couple becomes engaged, the first thing on the bride’s mind is probably her dress.

The process may take days, weeks or even months, but a bride will devote whatever amount it takes to find the perfect dress - and it will usually be white.

History indicates that the first white wedding dress was worn in the 1400s, but wearing a white dress did not become popular until the marriage of Queen Victoria of England to Prince Albert in 1840.

Today, the wearing of white symbolizes purity, as it did to Queen Victoria, but she also wanted to wear a dress of all British materials and highlight the lace industry.

She believed that white would be the best

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color to showcase the beautiful lace. A fashion trend soon began that extends to this day.

However, in other cultures, white is considered to be the color of mourning and even bad luck.

Another color, such as red, is the traditional color of the wedding dress. Today, brides and grooms often wear clothing that reflects their heritage, making their wedding day even more special to them.

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE. The thought of

Today’s brides may choose to wear a veil for the religious significance, because of tradition or as the fitting accessory for a beautiful wedding gown.

Because veils are available in a number of different lengths, with or without embellishment, brides are sure to find just the right one for them. Some brides choose not to wear a veil at all. Some may select a special hair ornament or flowers to wear instead, or wear nothing on their hair, letting the joy on their faces be the center of attention.

weddings often brings this verse to mind. An Old English rhyme dating back to the 19th century is credited with starting this tradition. The rhyme also mentions the bride wearing a coin in her shoe, but the idea of walking or dancing with a coin in your shoe may not be what many brides have in mind today.

The references to something old and something new are said to refer to ties to the past and hope for the future, respectively. The something borrowed was usually an item borrowed from a relative or happily married friend to wish good luck. These traditions may be incorporated in many ways, such as a special piece of jewelry, the wedding veil, a delicate handkerchief or many other options that a

THE WEDDING RINGS. The exchanging of rings has become an especially meaningful part of the

bride will cherish on her special day.

wedding ceremony and repeat, “With this ring, I

The

something

blue

has

a

dual

meaning.

thee wed.” Accounts suggest that the tradition of

Traditionally, it is meant to ward off the “evil eye,”

wearing wedding rings began in ancient Egypt. Rings

but also symbolizes love, purity and fidelity. Today’s

of reeds, leather, bone or a similar material were

brides have many options to incorporate blue in

worn on the fourth finger on the left hand because it

their weddings, including the bridal bouquet, jewelry

was believed that a vein ran directly from this finger

and shoes.

to the heart.

THE BRIDAL VEIL. The bridal veil may be just as

The materials used to make wedding rings have

iconic as the white wedding dress, but there is a story

changed much since then, but, in many cultures, the

behind this wedding tradition as well. A number of

wedding ring is still worn on the fourth finger of the

accounts suggest that the tradition began in ancient

left hand, the “ring finger,” for this reason. In other

times in an effort to protect the bride from evil

cultures, the ring is worn on the right hand.

spirits. Other accounts refer to the times of ancient

For many years, only brides wore wedding bands.

marriages, when a groom would not see his bride

That changed around World War II when soldiers

until the day of the ceremony. In that case, a bride

wanted a symbol to remind them of their bride. Men

would wear a veil during the ceremony so that the

began wearing wedding bands as well.

groom would not reject her due to her appearance.

Today, many brides and grooms become emotional

Later, the wedding veil became a symbol of humility

as they place the wedding band on their finger of their

and reverence before God.

life’s partner. The circle symbolizes their eternal union.

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THE FIRST DANCE. The bride and groom’s first dance

of wedding information resources suggests that she

as a married couple has become a meaningful

remember the previous meaning that catching the

tradition as family and friends gather for a reception

bouquet would bring good fortune,

to celebrate the marriage of the special couple.

Historical accounts suggests that the tradition of the may be traced back to the times when formal balls were popular. The guest of honor would lead the first dance opening the ball. The traditional first dance of the bride and groom is considered to be a natural extension of the historical tradition of the first dance at the ball because the bride and groom are the guests of honor at their reception.

Today, couples often select a song that carries a special meaning to them, often a slow song that they find to be romantic. Other couples may choose to choreograph a dance to perform for their guests.

No matter what, the first dance symbolizes the bride and groom’s bond as a couple and forms a lasting memory.

BRIDAL BOUQUET TOSS. The tradition of the bride tossing her bouquet is understood to date back to hundreds of years ago. People in times past believed that it brought good luck to touch the bride on the day of her wedding. However, some people even tried to rip her garments to keep a piece as a memento of good luck. To satisfy the guests and protect herself, the bride would toss her bouquet.

Over the years, the necessity of tossing the bouquet to avoid potential violence was forgotten, but the tradition of the bride tossing her bouquet continued with the meaning that the bride was extending wishes of good fortune to the guest who caught the bouquet. Over the years, the meaning

THE GARTER TOSS. The tradition of the garter toss can also be traced to times hundreds of years ago when wedding guests would try to rip off a piece of the bridal gown to keep for good luck. The bride would toss her garter, much like she would her bouquet, to appease the crowd.

Over the years, the tradition has evolved to

changed once again to mean that the woman

become as much a part of the reception as the

who caught the bouquet would be the next person

bridal bouquet toss. After the bride tosses her

to marry.

bouquet, unmarried men gather with excitement,

Today, the announcement that the bride is about to

or embarrassment. The bride then sits down, and

toss her bouquet is an expected part of the wedding

the groom removes the garter and tosses it to the

reception. The single women in attendance gather

waiting bachelors. The man who catches the garter

with a sense of excitement, or embarrassment,

is said to be destined to marry next. However, just

waiting for the bride to launch her bouquet in the

like catching the bridal bouquet, catching the garter

air. The woman who catches the bouquet may feel

is also said to bring good fortune. Anyone who feels

excited or self-conscious that she is supposed to be

embarrassed that he caught the garter may keep

the next person to be married. However, a number

this in mind.

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THE EXIT. Tossing rice, or something else, has also

else that is much light, such as confetti or rose petals.

become an important part of wedding tradition as

Still other couples forgo the tradition of having

the newlyweds make their grand exit. It is believed

something thrown at them by making a grand exit as

that the ancient Romans began the tradition as

guests hold sparklers or blow bubbles.

a way to express wishes for good fortune and a family for the married couple. As other cultures began to incorporate the tradition in their wedding ceremonies, they adapted what was thrown as the couple to reflect how they would bestow wishes for good fortune. This could mean another type of grain or even bread. In some cultures, shoes were thrown.

These are just a few of the wedding traditions that have evolved over the years, or have stood the test of time without change. Many couples incorporate the traditions of their culture or faith as they plan their special day. Still other couples may want to plan something completely different. No matter

Today, bird seed has replaced rice in many cases.

whether couples plan a more traditional wedding

Some couples may want to avoid the discomfort, or

and reception or develop new traditions of their

the risk of having something stuck in their clothing

own, they should keep in mind what would make

or hair, that comes when bird seed is thrown at you.

their happy on the day that marks the start of their

These brides and grooms may choose something

new life together. •

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WEDDING WEDDING BELLES 2022 BELLES EDITION 2022I

39

THE BARN AT

STORY BY DALE EDWARDS PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BARN AT LLOYD’S DAIRY.

Lloyd’s Dairy At 90-years-old, there’s not much Ben Lloyd hasn’t seen or done in Orange County. And a few years back, he and his family successfully took his 700acre farm from ‘moo’ to ‘I do.’ The nearly 100-yearold former dairy farm is in Efland, N.C., and has lush, green fields that span clear across the horizon, backdropped with mature trees. Add the vivid red barn with the patina’d silos and you have wedding photo opportunities at every turn.

The 20,000-square-foot event space doesn’t ignore its roots. “We keep it country,” Ben Lloyd said. “That’s how it works.”

There are large metal dairy signs from decades ago at Lloyd’s Dairy; metal milk cans used to transport the Lloyds’ milk in the 1930’s; and photographs of the past eras at the farm. Strings of lighting draped from the ceiling, bask guests in a festive, warm glow.

“We were this close to turning this barn into a horse boarding facility,” Ben Lloyd said. “But I asked the N.C. State agritourism experts about barn weddings after my grandson and his wife were married there. It was their idea from the beginning and they and Andy

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worked on cleaning out the barn and turning it into a wedding space for over a year.”

“We can fit hundreds of people in this space,” Craig Lloyd said. “A key element of the space is its versatility and its size -- we’ve had a wedding with over 350 people in here before.”

Andy Lloyd, along with his father Ben, his brother Craig, and sister Cheryl Humphrey – a local interior designer – transformed the space from a commercial dairy barn to a modern event venue. The family has added all of the practical updates that a barn needs to become a venue – there are new bathrooms, commercial fans that circulate a breeze throughout the barn during summer months, and lights that are adjustable by dimmer. They even had the power lines buried underground to further the picturesque appeal.

The former milk parlor, which once housed milk tanks and equipment, was turned into a bridal suite with bathrooms and a dressing area, decked out with mirrors, chandeliers and other remnants and reclaims from its former dairy farm days. The style

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joins rustic touches with the chic. The main room of the barn can operate as a wedding area, or, for clients wanting to have the wedding outdoors, it can host the reception.

The Barn At Lloyd’s Dairy is a family run business, and they’re not new to organizing and running events.

Throughout the year, the farm serves as a backdrop for antique festivals, Halloween attractions, and even a polo match. In the fall, the Tar Heel Balloon Festival will launch hot-air balloons from the rolling fields of the 700-acre farm.

“We’re trying to keep it unique,” said Craig Lloyd, who helps organize and operate events. With the increase in events and its growing popularity as a wedding venue, the crew of the Barn At Lloyd’s Dairy is experienced, and has proven capable of being flexible to just about anything. For instance, during the recent pandemic, the facility had to be certified in COVID-19 protocols, which included collecting information from guests for contact tracing, temperature checks, and adjusting events to allow for social distancing. With many of the events being outdoors, the size of the venue provides visitors with confidence for a safe experience.

The Barn

at LLOYD’S DAIRY

Since they opened the barn for weddings, the family has met couples from all over the area. Their location is close to interstates and highways, less than 30 minutes from Chapel Hill and Durham and under an hour from larger cities.

“People from Greensboro all the way to Raleigh can travel from their homes to our barn in less than an hour,” Ben Lloyd said.

Looking forward, the family doesn’t plan to stop at the renovations they’ve already completed. Ben Lloyd hopes to complete a “barn within a barn” in an uncovered space adjacent to the finished venue, where meeting and events with up to 300 people can take place. This venue will be rain-proof and available for rental like the barn currently up for wedding rentals, and will also have heat and AC. With Humphrey as the design mind and the person in charge of weddings, Andy and Ben Lloyd over the facilities and grounds, and Craig Lloyd responsible for promoting the space, the family has assembled a team that plans to continue growing their presence in the region’s wedding scene.

For more information, go to www.lloydsfarm.com, or call 919-880-5680. •

Creating Unforgettable Memmories WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS

226 North Lloyd’s Dairy Road Efland, NC

919-880-5680

www.lloydsdairy.com

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STORY BY DEBRA FERRELL

Couple’s love of traveling & adventure makes for a happy marriage Sometimes you meet someone and everything seems to fall into place like clockwork, turning into a loving and lasting relationship. John and Sally Wallace of Milton, North Carolina, have one of those relationships and are celebrating 61 years of marriage (not counting the years of dating).

The couple has a comfortable relationship filled with a number of common interests that keep things interesting for them. Their life together has been filled with moving to various areas before finally settling in Milton after Sally inherited her childhood home, the beautiful Thomas House (right across from the Thomas Day House/Union Tavern on Broad Street).

Sally was raised in Milton by her parents, Edmund and Louise Thomas. Her father ran the Thomas General Store

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as his father had before him. “I grew up riding stick horses and climbing trees,” she recalls fondly. Her love of Milton has stayed with her all her life.

John grew up in Oakland, California, before moving to White Plains, New York. In the summer of 1957, he visited his parents who were relocating to the Chicago area. Sally was spending the summer with family in Evanston, Illinois, when she met John.

“His father and my uncle knew each other from Virginia

Tech and introduced us,” Sally explains. “They had some beach tokens for Lake Michigan and suggested we use them.”

The young couple did indeed use the tokens and started dating after finding each other such good company.

They continued to date after getting back to college that fall. Sally would often catch the train from Longwood College to accompany John to one of the many seasonal dances Virginia Tech offered for things such as the Ring Dance (when class rings were presented); spring, winter, and fall formals; and many others. Sometimes John would drive to Longwood for the weekend to see Sally.

“I can remember riding the train carrying those long formal gowns in plastic bags,” she says. “I still have them packed away upstairs!”

John was in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and presented her with a diamond when he got back from training camp in early August of 1960. He joined the Army in the following June.

When asked what she thought when he pulled out a diamond, Sally says, “It was a surprise although we knew we were serious.”

The couple ended up getting married on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 1960 at the Milton United Methodist Church. Their first home was in Roanoke, Virginia, where John worked for Norfolk & Western Railroad. Sally did her student teaching and graduated from college in January 1961.

Their first army assignment was El Paso, Texas, where weekends were filled with adventure as they visited places like the Grand Canyon, Badlands, Petrified Forest,

Mexico, bullfights, and many more outings. “It was so hot there. Every day it looked like it was over 100 degrees, although it was a dry heat,” recalls John.

The next army move was to Ohio where they had Jack, the first of their three children. Bill came next in 1963, the same year John completed his army assignment and they relocated to the Boston area. There, they got a real taste of deep snows and enjoyed seeing the beautiful fall colors in New Hampshire and Vermont.

John remembers they were living near Boston when President John Kennedy was assassinated and everything shut down. “We were stunned,” says Sally.

When the couple was transferred to New Jersey, they enjoyed visiting Manhattan and seeing the many sights of the “Big Apple.” They even visited the World’s Fair two years!

Later, John took a job in Weirton, West Virginia, where

Photo Credit | Shown are photos from the couple’s wedding on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 1960 at the Milton United Methodist Church | Submitted

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Photo Credit | It a joyous occasion filled with family and friends as they celebrated with the traditional parts of a down home wedding | Submitted

they could easily travel over to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for outings. “There were lots of exciting thing to see there,” remembers John.

He says that he was always restless and didn’t like to stay at one job too long in those days. Soon it was off to Waynesboro, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley before moving to Hillsborough, North Carolina, where he spent two years earning his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at University of North Carolina.

During that time Sally was back at teaching to keep the family going while he was a full-time student. “I was right. Earning that degree did open doors for me with an increase in salary,” John explains.

After graduation, the couple took the opportunity to take a 36-day cross-country camping trip that Sally recalls as being some of the most fun of their lives. “We still refer to it as ‘The Great Trip,’” they recall fondly.

When they returned, they moved to Greenville, South Carolina, with their two sons and a new daughter, Elizabeth. They settled there for the next 40 years.

John worked at W.R. Grace for five years in Greenville before getting restless again. He tried something new this time: going into business for himself. “W.R. Grace decided to sell a portion of their company so I bought their warehouse business. It’s been 48 years now for me and I have been much happier being my own boss. I’m in the process of selling the land and building now,” he says.

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John served in the army reserves and is a retired captain. When asked what he likes about Sally, he shares, “I like her spirit of adventure. This is the 15th place I’ve lived and we’ve been to all 50 states. She’s very pleasant to live with and likes to travel like I do. We play bridge, go to movies, watch sports, and play cards and golf as well as tennis and chess.”

Sally says that she really admires John’s integrity. “I must be with someone I respect in order to love them. Every day we talk about the day’s adventures and plan things to do.

We even bet on the brackets of the basketball games. I have fun with John and enjoy his company.”

Moving back to the family home in Milton was quite satisfying even though they had improvements to make with the heating and air systems. “We’ve always improved every home we lived in whether that be adding a sunroom, patio, garage, pergola, extra bedroom or porch,” he adds.

They credit their 61 years of marriage to their faith in God, a loving relationship with each other and with family, and a spirit of commitment and compromise. “We have been blessed with a strong marriage, ten grandchildren, and many wonderful memories,” they say in closing.

Their life together seems to have revolved around many homes in many places. Here at last they rest easy at the Thomas House. •

Photo Credit | John and Sally Wallace were happy to inherit her family home in downtown Milton where they live next door to the general store they operate | Debra Ferrell

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WEDDING PARTY 101 The Silhouette Guide GOWN SILHO UE T T E STY LE S

WHETHER IT’S FINDING YOUR PERFECT DRESS OR COORDINATING YOUR WEDDING PARTY’S LOOK , WE GOT YOU!

EMPIRE-WAIST

TRUMPET GOWN

MERMAID GOWN

A great selection for pear-shaped brides, the empire waist helps hide hips with a skirt that runs from the bustline down.

This style of skirt begins below the hips and is named for its resemblance to the bell of a trumpet. This will suit curvier brides looking for a formfitting dress.

A great silhouette for showing off curves, this style flares out closer to the knee but will fit snugly in the upper area.

A-LINE GOWN

BALL GOWN

SHEATH

This is one of those styles that is flattering for nearly every body style. The gown stays tight to the torso area and extends down in an A-shape.

The ball gown is fitted up top and billows out dramatically in the skirt area. This style especially suits buxom brides as it presents balance.

This silhouette will stay tight to the entire body and would be ideal for smaller weddings with a more casual vibe.

OLD, NEW, BORROWED AND BLUE: A FRE S H TA K E ON T H E LON G -HELD CUSTOM You’ve probably heard the 19th century bridal rhyme: “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” Are you thinking about incorporating the associated traditions into your wedding but want to do so in a modern way? Here are some fresh ideas.

SOMETHING O L D • Create a display of vintage photos of loved ones • Incorporate an heirloom into your hairdo • Create a broach bouquet from vintage broaches and jewelry to carry instead of flowers

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SOMETHING NEW • Find some cheeky lingerie to wear under your dress • If you’re not the type to wear jewelry, have rings tattooed on your fingers • Have a custom perfume blended just for your special day

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SOMETHING BORROWED • Rent a designer gown instead of buying a dress you’ll only wear once • Borrow your parents’ wedding song for your first dance • If a married friend has a similar style to you, ask to borrow her veil

SOMETHING BLUE • Forget a French manicure and paint your nails bold blue • Wrap your bouquet with a blue handkerchief or ribbon • If you’re wearing a ball gown, add a layer of blue tulle

WHERE TO BUY: INDEPENDENTLY-OWNED BRIDAL STORES The place to see and engage with a lot of dresses at any budget range. Typically, these stores have stylists that can help guide you through the decision making process.

BRID E SM AIDS

COUTURE BRIDAL SALONS For a more personalized experience that will allow you to see a highly-specialized collection of high-end designer dresses up close.

DEPARTMENT + CLOTHING STORES National department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdales will all have a nice selection of suits and dresses for sale, and you can definitely find deals at stores like these.

DISCOUNT OUTLETS If you’re really looking to save some money – or perhaps you’re in a bit of a hurry – discount outlets are a great place to find, well, discounts on suits and dresses.

PRE-OWNED + RENTED For many bridal parties, pre-owned dresses are a really great way to wear a high-end dress without breaking the bank. Or, try renting a dress from various online outlets like Rent The Runway.

SWEETHEART NECKLINE The “sweetheart” neckline derives its name from the heart-shaped look of the torso area of the dress and flatters curvier women.

NOTCHED LAPEL This is the most common of lapel styles.

This is a very basic style making it a great option for the groomsmen. It’s approachable, easy to like, but it’s not going to catch anyone’s eye.

PEAKED LAPEL A peaked lapel – also sometimes called a pointed lapel – is often considered the most distinct of lapel styles. This style is sure to stand out and would make the perfect option for the groom.

ONE-SHOULDER NECKLINE This is the most unique of all neckline styles and can make a loud statement. The look is best suited for women with narrow shoulders and thin arms.

FLOWER GIRLS & RING BEARERS When it comes to the cutest, youngest

GROOM & GROOM S MEN

SHAWL LAPEL The shawl lapel is said to have its origins on the Victorian smoking jacket, and is characterized by a continuous curve.

This is a very elegant and smooth look that works well on full tuxedos.

SCOOP NECKLINE A scoop neckline indicates a dress that’s cut down into the chest area. How far it goes is up to you, but this is a dress than can be universally flattering for different body types.

members of the wedding party, it’s still important that the flower girls and ring bearer be coordinated with the overall color scheme and theme of the wedding.

Many opt for the flower girl’s dress having aspects in common with the bride’s gown. For example, if the bridal dress has lace or a full skirt, the flower girl’s dress might include those features. You might also consider having the flower girl’s dress match the bridesmaids’ dresses.

With the ring bearer, keep the same things in mind. A tiny little tux is cute, but should still match what the groom and/or groomsmen are wearing. •

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WAYS TO SAVE ON YOUR WEDDING DRESS STORY BY JAMI SNEAD continued on next page

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The stress of finding the perfect wedding dress is enough, so why add an expensive price tag to an already hectic process? One of the best ways to do that is to search for retailers who are not traditionally known for their wedding gowns.

From searching your favorite department store to choosing a less extravagant dress, you will save significantly with these budgetshopping hacks.

No. 1 Go for the bridesmaid’s dress Instead of choosing a traditional wedding dress, opt for a white or off white bridesmaids dress.

No. 2 Go all in with accessories Statement pieces are a great way to jazz up your low budget wedding dress. A dreamy veil or hair ornament can add just the right amount of glamour to make your dress look expensive.

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No. 3 Look for a sample shop

No. 5 Second Hand Dresses

These stores are typically found in big cities but are a great way to save on a designer dress. These stores carry dresses with minor problems like ripped seams or damaged embellishments from designers such as Vera Wang.

This is a great way to get a designer or style of your choosing at cut rate. Dresses can be found on websites like eBay, Tradesy, or Nearly Newly Wed.

No. 4 Trunk Shows Trunk shows are when representatives from designers come to a boutique to display and sell their collections. Sometimes there is more variety at these types of shows than in the stores.

You can have an amazing experience shopping for your perfect wedding gown without blowing your entire wedding budget. Try these tips and make your dress shopping experience stress-free. •

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STORY & PHOTOS BY DALE EDWARDS

Photo Credit | Goldsmith Karl Linger is the owner of Rings True in Carrboro, N.C.

BUILT FOR LOVE No matter the trend, the ring is made from the relationship

To say the staff at Rings True are in the relationship business is an almost laughable understatement.

Most of the atelier’s customers are in the shop because of a relationship, and they’re entrusting the staff with creating the central symbol for taking their relationship to the next level.

It’s an opportunity cherished by Karl Linger, who owns Carrboro, N.C.,-based Rings True. And one in

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which he and his employees invest themselves.

“When someone comes in, I meet them, I talk with them,” he said. “Often I’ll say, ‘Well what do you do?’

And they’ll say ‘I’m doing this, or I’m doing that,’ and that feeds into our connection while we’re working on their jobs, we know who we’re building for, which is a surprisingly different experience than just making the jewelry for somebody unknown.”

Linger has been running his shop in Carrboro for three years, but he’s been making jewelry for more than four decades, starting as an apprentice for a jewelry maker in New York City. Over the years, he honed his skills, learned new techniques, and moved up to making fine jewelry. But it wasn’t until after he moved to North Carolina and eventually opened his own shop that he was able to interact with the customer for whom he was making jewelry.

“I had never met the people that I built for in all those earlier years. I would make really nice jewelry, but I had no idea who would end up wearing it or who it was being made for,” he said.

Now, Linger and his four employees do their work right in the open where the client can stand at the counter and see almost every step of the process.

And, on many instances, each staff member has a hand in making the engagement or wedding ring a reality.

Those steps usually begin with a consultation, where customers express their expectations and hopes, trying to get to know a sense of the customers’ aesthetics, along with the details of dates and costs.

Sketches will be made for the ring design and, once approved, the process will moved to fabrication.

From there, the ring moves to assembly or the stonesetting step.

“What we’re looking at is to have three complete goldsmith’s in-house,” Linger said. “But we will always collaborate in the process. What we’re doing is using the craftsmen that are the best in that particular aspect of the process and including them in that work.”

The entire building process can run — depending on the complexity of the ring — from three days to two weeks. But Linger advises his customers to provide eight to 10 weeks from the initial conversation to trying on the ring and falling in love with it.

Linger said the amount of work being done at Rings True runs from busy to “crazy busy.” The holidays provide strong sales in other jewelry pieces, like ear rings and bracelets, and then in the spring, bridal season kicks the rush up a few notches for engagement and wedding rings.

As for trends, Linger said the Halo-style engagement ring has dominated the industry for a long time, but

Photo Credit | Examples of the custom-made jewelry from Rings True in Carrboro, N.C.

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Photo Credit | Each Goldsmith at Rings True has a hand in the process of designing, building, and finishing a customer’s ring.

he said he has been seeing several older styles making a comeback.

“Three-stone rings are becoming very strong again.

Historically, they’re a very strong item in the jewelry industry for a long, long time,” he said. “I’ve noticed people are coming back to simple solitaires. Less embellishment with so much micro pave.”

Another trend he is seeing are requests for color with regard to the center stone.

For men’s wedding bands, Linger said for more than a decade he has seen a rise in the popularity of alternative metals, like cobalt, and titanium.

“The guys are always looking for something a little bit different. One of the ways that we’ve addressed that is with texture, and finishes, and surface treatments. To raise some of that is oxidation of metals creating different tones of gold and silver.

Patinas are popular, heavy hammering techniques, and deep engraving has also become popular.

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“The nice thing about the engraving techniques is that we can include motifs and design elements that make it very personal to the customers,” Linger added.

Most of the custom bridal rings made at Rings True start in the $2,500 to $3,000 range, minus stones. From there, Linger said, the sky’s the limit. He added that his store offers a range of options, and sometimes customers are surprised at what they can afford.

The one thing in his store that he cannot put a price on, though, is the moment his customers see and try on the finished ring. “It’s incredible. It’s hard to describe, really, it’s hard to describe. People cry.

We don’t take that lightly. It’s very important to us and we truly love that experience.”

Rings True is at 200 N. Greensboro St., Suite B9 in Carrboro, N.C. 27510. For more information, and to see more of the inventory, go to www.thisringstrue.com. •

BY: JAMI SNEAD

Bridal Beauty Countdown Every bride dreams of the perfect wedding loaded with beautiful photos and memories. It is probably the most heavily photographed day of a bride’s life and there is a lot of preparation that goes in to making sure you look your absolute best. The key to your perfect day is planning your beauty routine several weeks prior to your wedding day.

3-6 MONTHS PREP

2-DAY PREP

• Schedule a facial for every 4-6 weeks until your wedding day.

• Do your seamstress a favor and try not to focus so much on your fitness routine at this point. The constant fluctuation in size will drive you both crazy.

• If your going to go with the spray tan option, two days prior to your wedding would be the ideal time to touch it up. This way you will have time to wash it off a bit before the wedding.

• Schedule your eyelash fill-in and a gentle facial for that perfect glow.

1-3 MONTHS PREP

1-DAY PREP

• Work on those pearly whites. Start using at-home whitening strips or see a professional. (You may want to schedule the professional visit a little closer to your wedding day.)

• Schedule your first eyelash extension session four weeks prior to your wedding day.

• Start experimenting with your makeup, hairstyle, and spray tan. (It is better to do a practice run when trying a spray tan. That way you can determine which is your perfect shade.)

• Wash your hair one-day prior.

Avoid washing your hair the day of your wedding. This will make it easier for your hair stylist to work with on the day of.

• Take the stress away by treating yourself to a gel manicure and pedicure.

1 WEEK PREP

WEDDING DAY

• Tame those wild hairs with an eyebrow and bikini wax.

• If the spray tan option does not work for you, begin applying a self tanner gradually.

• Schedule a hair color touch up.

• Eat a good breakfast. Start your day with some eggs, berries, and an English muffin.

• Take a relaxing bath to calm your nerves.

• Use a light moisturizing facial mask.

Source: www.boltblogs.com, Wedding Beauty Prep

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STORY BY A.S. ELLIOTT

IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE AN INTERVIEW The musical comedy Nunsense was set to open the next night at Lakeland Theatre in Littleton, North Carolina.

As a journalist for a small community newspaper, Mark wanted to write a behind-the-scenes story about the preparation of the show. He sought answers by speaking with the actresses and others involved with the production. Little did Mark know, his work on the story would be a life-changing event.

The plot featured several nuns seeking to raise funds to cover the costs of burying four nuns who died tragically from food poisoning following an unfortunate cooking mishap. Mark talked to the director, the actresses, and the people behind the production scenes. The reporter spoke to a handful of people to gather the information he needed for his story. Mandy was one of the actresses he interviewed.

“How many shows have you been a part of here at Lakeland? How much preparation is involved in getting a production-ready for the stage? Simple questions — nothing out of the ordinary. Yet— there was something magical about Mandy. When he showed up to work the next day, he asked coworkers what they knew of the actress at Lakeland.

It was all excellent.

Mark decided it was time to put Mandy out of his mind. He couldn’t. He was thrilled yet nervous when she agreed to join him on a boat ride. Mandy wasn’t exactly showing nerves of steel either. Yet, the two decided on another date on a Sunday for a service at a small Baptist church. Mandy had grown up as a parishioner at a Methodist church in upstate New York. Unbeknownst to the pastor, or the couple, the combination turned out to be the ice breaker.

Mark and Mandy sat side-by-side as the pastor delivered a fiery sermon. The speech wasn’t receiving the response from the parishioners the pastor expected.

“Show some emotion,” the pastor shouted to those filling the seats of the place of worship. “Ya’ll

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are acting like a bunch of Methodists at a service in New York.”

A grinning Mark whipped a soft touch of his elbow to the arm of Mandy, who was already laughing at the preacher’s friendly outburst. The parishioners perked up as the service turned lively, and the comment broke the ice for the couple on their second date. The couple remained inseparable, and the relationship blossomed.

Mark and Mandy were engaged within six months and stood before a pastor to exchange marriage vows approximately 15 months from when they first met. Seven years have passed since the reporter asked the actress the details of her prep work for the stage production. Little did Mark and Mandy know that stage production would produce a lifechanging event for the happy couple.

It’s hard to believe, yet true. It all started with an interview. •

Photo Credit | Mandy and Mark share a moment on their wedding day | kmg Photography

Photo Credit | Mark and Mandy walk down the aisle after exchanging vows | photo by Teresa Welsh

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Southern Grace Wedding & Events White Plains’ venue helps people celebrate life’s most cherished moments Photos courtesy of Southern Grace Wedding & Events

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On an inconspicuous property down country backroads in White Plains, Virginia, there lies an eight acre property that has a newly constructed barn, a house that is over 90 years old, and a wooden shed. It would be very easy to not even notice the property if you were just passing by. Whether it’s widely known or kept a hidden treasure, some of life’s most cherished events have been celebrated here.

Southern Grace Wedding and Events is owned by Ed and Patty Crowling of Chesapeake, Virginia. The couple have been married for 30 years themselves and decided they wanted to help other people celebrate their special day. It all started when their daughter was married at another property they owned. While it turned out beautifully and the couple received positive feedback about their efforts, they realized it would have been a much more enjoyable occasion with extra amenities like air conditioning, indoor bathrooms, and a place to prepare the food for the ceremony. Their son-in-law was a delivery driver and happened to drive by the property one day. He knew his in-laws were looking for a place closer to home and desired space to build a barn, so he promptly told them about the discovery. The couple came and visited, and realized quite quickly that they found what they had been looking for.

They purchased the property in 2018, and subsequently built a barn. The house has both a bridal suite and grooms suite, along with four bedrooms and bathrooms. There’s a living room, dining room, and a kitchen that is available to use for most of the packages offered. Additionally, those

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in the wedding have a place to stay along with out of town guests. There is also ample space to have someone come do makeup and hair for the wedding. The proximity of the house to the barn is also a highly valued convenience when it comes to decorating and setting up for the ceremony and reception.

The four packages offered are based on 100 people, but the barn can seat 156 people at tables and 186 in aisles for a ceremony. The couple is also more than willing to work with their customers on modifying the packages to meet their needs. As far as the ceremony itself, the couples have the option of getting married inside or outside the barn. While the outside option has been more widely chosen, there have been some who have chosen the indoor option. This option is, of course, greatly appreciated during days of inclimate weather. A fixture in the barn is a wooden cross that stands over 6 feet tall that the Crowling’s son-in-law built by hand. The cross is frequently chosen to be the backdrop during the exchange of vows. There is the choice of round or rectangular tables, with seating on the ground floor, the loft, or by putting extra tents outside.

Four years into it, Ed and Patty have found out that the most popular times are the spring months before the sweltering heat of the summer hits, and the fall around October into November. Though business was slow to start, and hampered by the COVID-19 outbreak, word of their hidden gem of a venue is starting to spread. They have already matched the amount of scheduled events for 2022 that they had in 2021. They have even received requests to take tours for events in 2023.

Space on the property is not just exclusively rented for weddings. The house and barn have been rented for bridal showers, baby showers, and birthday parties. To find out more information on Southern Grace Wedding and Events, you can visit them on Facebook under Southern Grace Wedding and Events. You can also visit their website at www. southerngracevenue.com. Patty Crowling can also be contacted at (757) 434-8869. •

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Photo Credit | Shown at left, Southern Grace presents Mr. & Mrs. Slaughter

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Wedding Style EXPLORE VARIOUS WEDDING TRENDS DURING PLANNING Every wedding is different, even if many share some common components. As couples plan their weddings, learning about some popular wedding styles can help them create a ceremony that suits them.

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CLASSIC WEDDING Classic weddings are the storybook traditional weddings that many people dream about for years. Key elements include a tuxedo for the groom and a white gown for the bride. Formal attire is reserved for the rest of the wedding party. The ceremony is conducted in a place of worship before everyone retires to a fancy catering hall for the reception.

Traditional weddings also may include the time-honored customs like toasts, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and parent-child dances.

BEACH WEDDING Beach weddings often are casual, laid back affairs. Dresses may be less structured and flow with sea breezes, while guys may even don shorts with linen shirts or jackets. Guests can expect the party to be much more free-flowing and the traditions of classic weddings may not be part of the celebration.

BOHEMIAN WEDDING Free-spirited individuals may dive head first into a bohemian style wedding. According to wedding planner David Tutera, a boho wedding is casual and comfortable. It tends to come off chic but appears that way with minimal effort. Decor is typically humble and blends harmoniously with nature. A boho wedding may take place outdoors or in another less traditional venue, such as a farmhouse or botanical garden. Wedding party attire may be mismatched and showcase each person’s individual style.

MODERN WEDDING Brides and grooms who crave contemporary and current trends may prefer a modern wedding. Graphic color schemes, clean lines and minimalistic flowers might be part of a modern wedding. Attire may be angular and edgy, and the venue may run the gamut from sleek museum to a city rooftop.

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DESTINATION WEDDING Couples who love to travel and don’t want to worry about the minutiae of wedding planning may find a destination wedding is a good fit. Destination weddings last more than one day and focus on relaxation, activities and lots of fun. Destination weddings tend to be less formal and less traditional than classic weddings. Due to the remote locations, destination weddings also can be smaller and more intimate, as many invitees may be unable to attend.

Yet those who can attend often get to enjoy tropical islands or mountain retreats.

Wedding styles are as unique as the people getting married. Choosing a theme that has the right feeling can help couples make the most of their special days. •

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Savings strategies for your wedding The question was popped; the engagement ring presented. What’s the next step on the road to the wedding? Saving should definitely be on couples’ minds. A wedding is likely the most costly party couples will ever throw. Investopedia says the vast majority of couples budget too little for their weddings and also end up spending more than they had planned. Various strategies can make it easier to save for a wedding and avoid a post-wedding financial hangover.

GET INFORMED It’s impossible to budget for a wedding and ultimately save without knowledge of what services and items cost in the region where you live. A wedding in New York City will be expensive, while a wedding in Mississippi will cost a lot less, indicates SuperMoney’s guide to wedding costs. Conduct some research and find out what photographers, florists, transportation providers, reception halls, and wedding wardrobe vendors charge for common services. This will paint a vivid picture of what a wedding may cost in your area.

FLESH OUT THE BUDGET Once you have gathered estimates, you can then figure out a financial goal. This also is when you can determine where to rein in spending and where you might want to splurge. If having a video memory of the wedding is not a top priority, you can skip videography services. If you have a special flower that you like, you may want to budget more for that bloom even if it isn’t in season.

SET UP A DEDICATED SAVINGS ACCOUNT One of the easiest ways to save for big-ticket items like a wedding, home purchase or other financial goals is to use an automatic savings account that may be available through your bank or employer.

An automatic savings plan will pull a set amount

from a personal checking account into a savings account through auto-draft. The bride and groom can link individual checking accounts to one savings account to contribute jointly.

AVOID OVERSPENDING An analysis of your spending habits will likely reveal areas where you can scale back so you can devote more funds to wedding savings. Do you need a takeout coffee in the morning or can you brew a pot at home? Might you be able to scale back on streaming services? Do you feel comfortable buying less expensive store brand groceries over name brands? Small cost savings can quickly add up.

ADD UP GIFTS Factor in deduction of expenses that other people will commit to covering for wedding expenses, but only if you have concrete confirmation. A parent may host the rehearsal dinner. One’s relative may offer to pass down an antique wedding gown to wear. But rather than simply removing these gifts from your savings calculations, keep them as a safety net to put toward unforseen expenses.

Saving for a wedding can be challenging. But various strategies can help couples plan their dream weddings without breaking the bank. •

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WHY A WEDDING PLANNER CAN BE A COUPLE’S BEST ASSET The average cost of a wedding today is enough to make a sizable down payment on a home. According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average wedding in the United States cost $33,900 in 2019, though the price tag can vary widely from state to state.

Though love may not cost a thing, weddings certainly do. One of the best ways to maximize wedding budgets and ensure that all that money is well spent is to enlist the services of a wedding planner. Wedding planners wear many hats, which underscores how valuable they can be.

and allocate funds so couples’ biggest priorities get the financial attention they deserve.

PROBLEM SOLVER

3

Wedding planners step in to save the day when hiccups threaten to derail plans. A planner will know what to do should a gown become torn or if a vendor fails to respond to calls on the day of the wedding. Removing some stressors allows couples to relax and more fully immerse themselves in their weddings.

SOUNDING BOARD

1

An experienced wedding planner can help couples keep their worries at bay. Countless decisions must be made when planning a wedding, and some couples may feel as if they need to micromanage their nuptials. A wedding planner can take tasks off of couples’ plates and serve as a sounding board as couples try to make the best decisions.

FINANCIAL GURU

2

A wedding planner may help couples score insider deals and will know when a vendor’s price is on target or inflated. That savvy saves couples money in the long run. Wedding planners also can advise on ways to save money

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IDEA GENERATOR

4

Pulling together ideas from every corner requires a creative eye. Couples can rely on a professional wedding planner to help with brainstorming and putting different elements together. He or she likely has seen a vast array of celebrations and can make suggestions based on what’s worked before.

TIME SAVER

5

Wedding planners already have a bevy of industry contacts and can pull together wedding details in much less turnaround time than couples with no wedding planning experience.

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