Weddings A special supplement to the

Making Dreams Come True Located @ Paul Tree Farms | 12430 State Route 125 | Pleasant Plains, IL 62677 | 217.626.1616

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September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

NO ONE ON THIS PLANET HAS A LOVE STORY LIKE YOURS! Your story is unique, and there is nobody in the world that has the same one. Like fingerprints, every story is different. That’s where I come in, I want to tell your story and create a wedding film that will transport you back to those exact moments of your day, where you can hear your voice, feel the emotion, feel the nerves and anticipation all over again. NOT HAVING A WEDDING VIDEO IS THE #1 REGRET OF COUPLES AFTER THEIR WEDDING DAY IS DONE. Don’t be that couple who says, “I wish we would have”. After struggling through a once in a generation pandemic last year, people are starting to realize that a wedding film can share the events of the day with everyone who was unable to attend the actual event, as well as create a legacy keepsake for them to share with future generations to come.

WEDDING VIDEO HAS BECOME A MUST HAVE ITEM ON COUPLES’ TO-DO LISTS. There is something magical that comes from capturing video and audio together, finding the perfect music that elevates the footage, and then creating an emotional wedding film that tells your story. Every wedding is essentially the same, it’s the STORY that makes each one unique. I want to tell that story, and that’s what sets my films apart. The honor of sharing all the intimate moments of a couples’ wedding day is something I don’t take for granted. These are special times and only your closest friends and family are allowed to witness them. It’s an amazing gift to be allowed to share in those moments as well. The job that I have the privilege to do every weekend is not only about the craft, its about how I treat, respect and serve my clients.

September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

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Photos Submitted by: Steve Weber Films

WHEN A FAMILY MEMBER REACHES OUT TO TELL ME HOW MUCH THE WEDDING FILMS MEANT TO THEM, IT MEANS THE WORLD TO ME. You deserve the absolute best, not just someone who shows up on the big day and presses “record”. I engage with my couples, I talk, laugh, and joke around with everyone and try to make the day as fun and relaxed as possible. I want you to look back after the

day is over and say “hiring Steve Weber Films was the best decision we made”. I want my wedding films to become a tradition for families, a beautiful way to be transported back in time to re-live their wedding day. My ultimate goal is to make a positive impact on the families I meet along the way, and if I can do that, it means more than all the money in the world. It’s humbling to know that the work I do will be

enjoyed for generations to come, long after I’m gone. The wedding films I create will allow families to know their origin story, and that is pretty special. Steve Weber Films is the premiere wedding videographer in the Central Illinois area. Established in 2018, I have had the honor of capturing over 70 weddings and amassing nearly 80,000 views on YouTube, this job is my passion!

You can find out more about who I am and what I do by visiting my website www. steveweberfilms.com. There you can find videos that explain every aspect of how I work, package pricing and podcasts that cover topics that couples want to know. I look forward to working with you to create a wedding film you can be proud of. Contact me today.

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September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

One of the biggest trends in wedding gowns are very long dramatic trains and cathedral veils. Girls In White Satin, located at 300 E. State Street in Jacksonville carries both in a variety of styles and options.

One of the new trends with bridesmaids are spaghetti strap dresses with slits in the skirt as well as jumpsuits. The new fun color everyone is asking for is Saffron (the yellow color) along with spice and cinnamon. All are available at Girls In White Satin Bridal, located at 300 E. State Street in Jacksonville. Pictures Submitted By: Girls In White Satin

September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

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Features to look for in an outdoor wedding venue

Couples will remember their wedding day for the rest of their lives. The day a couple says “I do” is often the culmination of months of planning, and much of those efforts are dedicated to creating a special ceremony that will create cherished memories. The choice of venue is a significant decision, and today’s couples have more options regarding where to tie the knot than ever before. Many couples on the cusp of getting hitched are looking to do so in the great outdoors. Nature took center stage at weddings in 2020, as many couples moved their ceremonies outdoors to adhere to government guidelines issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Couples considering outdoor venues for their weddings can look for certain features that can make the big day as special as it is safe. · Backdrop: An awe-inspiring backdrop, whether it’s the natural beauty of a mountaintop or a beach with the sound of ocean waves crashing into the shoreline, can make for great photos and a ceremony couples and their guests will never forget. · Plan B: Couples may work hard to ensure everything goes off without a hitch, but ultimately the elements are in control during outdoor wedding ceremonies. So couples hoping to host an outdoor ceremony may want to look for sites that have a readily accessible indoor option just in case Mother Nature is not cooperating. Many reception venues are capable of hosting indoor and outdoor ceremonies

as well as dinners, so this might be the best option for couples who want to have outdoor weddings during times of the year when weather is typically inclement or unpredictable, such as winter, early spring or late fall. · Lighting: What’s awe-inspiring in person may be hard to capture on film. Couples may want to bring their wedding photographers along as they search for outdoor ceremony sites. Professional photographers can help couples determine which sites will make for great photos and which ones might make it hard to capture the beauty of the site’s surroundings. · Accessibility: Couples will want to make sure all of their guests can be there to witness the ceremony. Before choosing an outdoor ceremony site, consider those guests who may have mobility issues, such as grandparents. A midday hike up a mountain might be doable for most guests, but it may exclude others from witnessing the ceremony. Try to find an outdoor ceremony site that’s readily accessible to everyone. In addition, keep in mind that the more accessible a site is the easier it is to get away and get indoors if the weather takes a sudden, unexpected turn for the worse. Outdoor weddings are wildly popular. Couples who find outdoor ceremony sites with certain features may rest easier knowing they and their guests are safe and sound no matter what Mother Nature has in store come the big day.

All Wedding Packages Include: Full Service in 2 Adjoining Rooms with Seating of up to 300 People • Full Kitchen • Full Bar • Buffet or Plated Dinner • Cake Cutting • Cheese Display • Candle Centerpieces with Mirrors • Dance Floor Indoor/Outdoor Options Available, Air Conditioning, Linens, Tables & Chairs Included

Weddings, Showers, & Rehearsal Dinners at a Beautiful Golf Course Setting!

100 Country Club Rd., Jacksonville, IL 217-245-2134 www.jacksonvillecc.com

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September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

Paul’s Paradise

A Classy Ballroom in a Country Setting. Pleasant Plains, IL

VIP Lounge with a 3 Person Hair & Makeup Studio

Complimentary Arcade

September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

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Luxury Wedding Transportation Lincoln Navigator L Reserve: For the Bride and Groom our Lincoln Navigator provides the ultimate experience. Arrive at your venue in timeless style. Headed to your honeymoon and want to arrive at the airport worry-free? Let us take you there! Featuring Tinted Windows, Rear Captains Chairs with center console and entertainment controls, WiFi, and a large luggage capacity.

Arrive in Style!

Call us for your Wedding Shuttle and get your Bachelorette or Bachelor Party Transportation

Executive Mercedes Sprinter: Like a private jet on wheels, our Executive Mercedes Sprinters offers luxury at an affordable price. This vehicle is perfect for the wedding party, bachelor/ bachelorette parties, or small group shuttles. Amazing features such as: 13 Black Halo Ultra Soft Touch Leather High Back Top of the Line Captain Chairs. ,Power / USB Charging at Every Row, Signature Maybach Ceiling with Suede Headliner and Trim, Private Passenger Area, Separate Luggage Compartment, Rear-Facing 32” TV with DVD & Streaming (Login with your subscription), WiFi

FREE*!

Mid Size Limo Coach: Luxury Motorcoach : The pinnacle of large group transportation, our modern fleet of motor coaches are perfect for guest shuttles, parties, or trips. Luxury seating, color changing lighting, Power / USB Charging at every seat, onboard lavatory, PA System, Monitors with DVD, & WiFi.

Bringing the luxury and comfort of our full size coaches in a smaller footprint. Leather Interior, color changing lighting, Power / USB Charging at every seat, onboard lavatory, PA System, Monitors with DVD, & Wifi.

*Free offer for up to 4 hours in an Executive Sprinter or SUV, subject to date availability, additional hours at a discounted rate. Must book Full Size or Mid Size coach to be eligible for deal

230 S. Main St. • Moweaqua, IL 62550 Reservations@TimisTours.com | www.TimisTours.com | 1-800-682-8214

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September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

3 Tools For Keeping Wedding Guests Informed

Weddings give couples an opportunity to share the joy of joining their lives together with a

host of friends and family members. Guests liven up the party and help make the celebration that

much more memorable. According to The Knot 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average wedding in the United States hosts 131 people. Data indicates this number has been slowly decreasing over the years, after the average wedding size reached an all-time high of 153 in 2007. No matter how big or how small the guest list, keeping guests informed of what’s happening regarding the upcoming nuptials is a courtesy couples can provide. Couples can explore various avenues for keeping guests informed and ensuring they’ll be able to take part in the festivities. Save-the-date announcements Save-the-date announcements have become an increasingly popular component of wedding planning. Instead of waiting on the wedding invitation, which traditionally arrives one or two months prior to the wedding itself, save-the-date cards provide guests with an advanced advertisement of the celebration to come. According to the photo and invitation specialists at Shutterfly, it’s customary to send save-the-date notes around six months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, which will require extra travel plans, an eight- to 12-month advance can be helpful. Save-the-date cards generally have basic information, including the wedding date and the venue. Many will feature a photo of the couple as well. If you’re planning on sending save-thedate announcements, coordinate with your photographer to have a photo taken exclusively for these cards. Wedding website

Couples are increasingly embracing technology as they plan their weddings. Brides magazine states that, during the typical 15-month engagement period, 48 percent of couples will launch a wedding website. A wedding website is a versatile tool that can help answer questions that guests may have. The website can spell out specifics, including dress code, whether children are invited, the names of wedding party participants, overnight accommodations, transportation providers, and even restaurants near the hotel for a quick bite between ceremony and reception. Wedding websites also can be used as fun ways to keep guests engaged. “Throwback Thursday” photos or funny memories and anecdotes can be included. Video conferencing apps As the world continues to adapt in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, video conferencing applications like Facetime, Zoom and Microsoft Teams enable people involved in the planning process to routinely “gather” and go over details about the wedding, helping to limit in-person meetings as much as possible. These apps also can prove invaluable when conferring with wedding vendors, such as florists or musicians. You also can schedule smaller meetings with specific guests who may be playing key roles in the wedding, such as those giving speeches, doing readings, escorting guests, or serving in other capacities. Certain resources can help couples keep guests informed about what’s to come in regard to their weddings.

September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

Savings Strategies for Weddings 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. According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2019 was $33,900. There are many different costs associated with weddings. Some are predictable, while others are unexpected. 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 vid-

eography 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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September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

UNIQUE DIAMOND SHAPES Shown from left to right: Marquise, Radiant, Pear, and Round with a cushion halo. Each of these shapes are unique with the perfect touch of classic! A fancy center stone shape accompanied by a small pave halo provides a lovely mix of delicate sparkle and stunning style!

OVALS Whether in an engagement ring or a wedding band, oval diamonds are all the rage right now! We can see why too. The oval diamond is a very elongating shape, which can create the illusion of a larger size stone. Ovals also have wonderful brilliance, which gives you the most sparkle. We have many oval rings on our showroom floor; stop in and try one on to see why the oval diamond earned its place on our trend list!

September 2021 | Bridal Magazine

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Questions to Ask Before Booking a Photographer

Various components combine to make weddings beautiful and memorable. Couples rely on photographers to capture the smiles and moments that helped make their events unique and to ensure the big day is remembered for years to come. The trusted wedding resource The Knot notes that an internal study found that, among 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, an average of $2,400 was spent on a wedding photographer to document their big day. Couples who want to find the best photographer for their wedding day can ask several questions before making their final decision. What style do you specialize in? Photographers may be able to shoot various styles of photos, but may specialize in a specific type. For example, some photographers specialize in photojournalism, while others may excel at portraiture. Going with a photographer who has the most expertise shooting the style you prefer will help produce the desired results. Who will be shooting my wedding? Certain photography studios have several photographers working under one roof. Just because you meet with one does not necessarily mean that photographer will be on site, unless it is specified in the contract.

Can we see a full gallery of a recent wedding? According to Brides magazine, unlike an album or a highlight gallery, a full gallery provides a better sense of a photographer’s style and attention to detail. Will photos be color balanced and retouched? Skilled photographers are capable of capturing winning photos. But photos can be enhanced further in the studio with retouching software to bring out specific effects. Some photographers will polish all proofs, while others only will work on the images ultimately ordered. Confirm retouching details before signing the contract. What’s included in the photo packages? A detailed price list helps you compare one photographer to another and decide which elements are covered. Additional prints, having a photographer’s assistant, ordering albums for the parents, or ordering a large framed print can alter costs significantly. Explore all prices to ensure you’re getting the best value. In addition, consider how many hours of event coverage are included in the price.

What is the payment timeline? Photographers may accept deposits for their services but expect a different timeline Have you ever worked at my venue of payment. Some may require payment in full before? before the wedding, while others may offer a Photographers may be familiar with several payment plan that includes a final payment local wedding venues and houses of worship. when picking up proofs or albums. A photographer who has experience working Wedding photography is one of the in the locations where couples will tie the knot essential elements of a wedding and helps tell and subsequently celebrate might produce the story of couples’ special day. Asking key the best results, but lack of experience with questions can help couples find a photograparticular venues need not exclude other pher who will produce the desired results. professionals.

3325 Robbins Rd. Springfield, IL 62704 217-793-3300 g i g a n t i j e w e l r y. c o m

Book now, thank yourself later Come enjoy our new & modern hotel.

Enjoy your wedding at our award winning hotel, our 3 star facility is well equipped to accommodate your wedding in the most hassle-free, efficient way that will leave a lasting impression. Thank you for your consideration! Call or email Tyler at 217-479-3100 or tyler.sleepinnsales@gmail.com & mention this ad to get amazing perks like • Online link for you & your guest’s to book at your convenience. • Complimentary room for the bride and groom the night of wedding with 15 or more paid rooms. • Gift bag deliveries • More!!! We are confident that we can provide a superb and easygoing lodging option for you and your guest’s; give us the details & let us handle the rest while you focus on other aspects of your event. We offer a wide vary of amenities and rooms that are unrivaled, such as: • Outdoor recreational activities in Spring/Summer/Fall • Indoor pool table • On-site adult casino room • Spacious lobby for rendezvous • Heated swimming pool AND • Triple Queen suites • Signature Sleep Inn suites • Back yard picnic area with canopy

• Free wifi • Complimentary breakfast • Signature Sleep Inn tea. • Free parking • Fitness room • More!!

We are located at 2401 Holliday Lane in South Jacksonville, conveniently located off Highway 67 & Old Highway 267. We are excited to host your big event, let us take good care of you and give us a call!

Congratulations!!