Forever Bridal 1

T h e

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

The Perfect Destination Wedding

ENHANCING YOUR DRESS SPRUCE UP THE TUX

sweet BOUQUETS MAKING YOURS UNIQUE

happiness

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( Contents )

32.

24.

WHAT’S THE BEST HAIRSTYLE FOR YOUR FACE SHAPE?

TO HAVE

and TO HOLD Make a beautiful bouquet that stands out as much as you

Curly, straight, or updo– we’ll find the perfect do for you

34.

ALL EYES ON YOU

Eye makeup tricks that are absolutely stunning

36.

HOW SWEET IT IS

Creative and budgetfriendly alternatives to the traditional cake

38.

FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO SAY “I DO”

Write your own wedding vows straight from the heart

40.

MAKING MEMORIES. STEP BY STEP.

Accessories that add unique charm to your dream wedding dress

20.

THE RIGHT WORDS TO ANNOUNCE YOUR SPECIAL DAY

Creative ideas for invitations, saves the dates, and R.S.V.Ps.

12.

ADD THAT SPECIAL TOUCH TO HIS TUX

Add an extra touch of individuality to your tuxedo ensemble

22.

RAISE YOUR GLASSES

Toasting tips for the Best Man and Maids of Honor

14.

WHEREVER YOUR HEART TAKES YOU

Destination wedding locations are as limitless as your imagination

28.

KEEP YOUR HEART AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Show off your unique personality with these creative centerpieces

44.

SIMPLE “THANK YOU” TOUCHES

Leave them feeling special with these party favors

Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

08.

INSPIRATIONS TO ENHANCE YOUR DRESS

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

Choose the perfect song for your first dance as Mr. & Mrs.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

T h e

B r i d e ’ s

R e s o u r c e

Bri Johnson Photography www.brijohnson.com/weddings brijohnsonphotography@yahoo.com Jersey City, NJ 585.739.2668

CREDITS

Lacie Hansen Photography laciehansen.com lhansenphotography@live.com Santa Barbara, CA 805.708.0919

If you would like to be featured in an upcoming issue of FOREVER, The Bride’s Resource, please contact us at forever@foxprintservices.com ©2014 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC. PO Box 6986 Metairie, LA 70009 All rights reserved.

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( Wedding Dress )

Inspirations to Enhance Your Dress

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

NO ONE WILL BE ABLE TO HOLD BACK A SMILE WHEN YOU WALK DOWN THE AISLE. YOU’LL DAZZLE IN YOUR DRESS AND THESE FINISHING TOUCHES WILL ONLY ADD TO THE AMAZEMENT.

( Wedding Dress )

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can complement your wedding dress and give you that extra “sparkle” on your Big Day. Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

SASH OR BELT Whether beaded, floral, rhinestone, or sequins – sashes or belts are great for highlighting the waistline and creating a tapered, defined look. You’ll also find simple looks from vintage or designer styles. There are so many colors and materials to choose from, that no matter what you go with, a sash or belt will only accentuate the dress of your dreams. www.bella-tiara.com GLOVES Your hands are an integral element on your wedding day (think of your fiancé placing the ring on your finger). Dress them up with gloves – fingerless, halffinger, and from wrist to opera length.

You’ll find more than just plain white gloves. Brown, black, red are just a few of the latest trends. Gloves can also be adorned with elegant beads, flowers, pearls, sequins, and crystals. www.greatglovesonline.com JACKET If you thought a jacket is a must-have only for a fall or winter wedding – you’ll be surprised to find out that jackets are used for any season! If you’re tying the knot in the spring or summer, consider

a jacket made of lace or tulle. Some jackets are also small enough to look like shrugs, stoles, or boleros. But the best part of a jacket is that it can bring out a bride’s waist and the gown, as well. www.topwedding.com CLUTCH BAG You’ll want to keep a few things handy; lipstick, your cell phone, or a few tissues.

It’s a huge comfort knowing that these things are close at hand just in case.

Plus, with so many colors, styles, and sizes, it’s a fun addition to your attire – and totally practical! www.chicastic.com JEWELRY The sky’s the limit with jewelry.

Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can complement your wedding dress and give you that extra “sparkle” on your Big Day. Consider your neckline and sleeve patterns with the type of jewelry to wear. Also consider hanging earrings if your dress has a closed neck in front.To play it safe – pearls are also a girl’s best friend. They look classy for a traditional wedding and for a themed wedding, you can choose colored pearls for that beautiful touch. www.helzberg.com

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( Tux )

Add That Special Touch

to HIS TUX

THE GROOM IS TRADITIONALLY THE FIRST PERSON THE GUESTS SEE AT ANY WEDDING. “WOW” THEM WITH YOUR SMOOTH LOOK AND STUNNING INDIVIDUAL STYLE.

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

CUMMERBUND Want to add a splash of color to your tux? Then you can’t go wrong with a cummerbund. They are usually worn with a single breasted tuxedo jacket, matching trousers, and a dress shirt. The most important thing to remember is that your cummerbund should always match your tie! Going traditional? – Then choose a black, gray, or red cummerbund. There’s one out there that could be the wedding colors, which would give you a debonair look!

CUFF LINKS Monogrammed or jeweled cuff links are great accessories that really add

pizazz to the tux. If you’re wearing a white tuxedo shirt, choose dark cuff links to really stand out. Make sure the dress shirt you’re wearing has French cuffs. Maybe you’re looking to add a bit of humor? You can virtually find any kind of cuff link imaginable – from hobbies, sports, and fictional characters. Definitely speak with your fiancé about going for this “personalized” approach!

FORMAL GLOVES The classic look is still in! Consider wool, cashmere, or nylon stretch formal gloves for the ultimate statement.

Although white gloves may be tempting, it’s suggested that gray or black gloves work best for a black tuxedo. Gloves can be worn in any season, but are especially elegant in a fall or winter wedding. www.gloves-online.com THE POCKET SQUARE Add a dash of color by slipping a pocket square into your tuxedo jacket. Be sure the pocket square matches your other wedding accessories, especially the vest or cummerbund and your tie. There are many ways to fold a pocket square —some simple and some more complicated —but how you choose to wear it depends mostly on personal taste. www.theartofmanliness.com TUXEDO VEST If you’ve opted out of the cummerbund, then the tuxedo vest is your next best choice. A tuxedo vest is worn over the formal shirt and under the tuxedo jacket. Piquecollared vests are extremely stylish and very formal. Most pique-collared vests are sold in black or white. For a less formal wedding, you can go for colored or brocade versions. www.dessy.com/men Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

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( Destination Wedding )

Wherever

YOUR HEART Takes You PLANNING THE PERFECT DESTINATION WEDDING • Start with the Web. It’s a goldmine of valuable information! Here you can research legal requirements anywhere in the world, find great deals in travel and hotels, and get great ideas of where to have your destination wedding.

• If you’re feeling overwhelmed about trying to find that perfect spot, contact a local travel agent. They have valuable resources and will find you the best deal. They will make all travel arrangements - but keep in mind you’ll be paying for their service.

• Give your guests plenty of notice.

Bear in mind that they will also need to budget, make arrangements to leave home, factor in time off of work, and obtain passports if needed. Some guests may be able to find last-minute deals on airfare, but suggest they book flights ahead of time to make sure they won’t miss the special day.

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Destination Wedding )

• Many resorts, hotels, and cruise ships offer wedding packages. Wedding packages can cost $2,000 to $4,000 if you are planning a small destination wedding with guests, followed by a reception. Always make sure to ask what is included in the cost of your ceremony. If you want a hassle-free wedding in the midst of a wonderful vacation, go with the wedding package option and leave coordinating to someone else.

• Many people think of destination weddings and automatically think of the Caribbean. The world is all yours - think as big or small as you desire. Disney, Nantucket, and Napa Valley won’t require a passport! You can still enjoy a tropical spot without leaving the country - think Hawaii or Key West. If you are going to Europe, taking a cruise or venturing to Fiji, always make sure to check the passport requirements.

Opposite page: Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

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Many people think of destination weddings and automatically think of the Caribbean. The world is all yours - think as big or small as you desire.

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Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Invitations, RSVPs, etc. )

The Right Way to

Announce - Your Special Day

Y

our wedding invite sand save-the-date sets the tone of your wedding. Let it stand as a mark of personal expression and a loving welcome to your guests. With the digital world spinning faster than we can keep up, there are many unique ways of sending out invites and save-the-dates.

Ann Landers and Dear Abby receive thousands of letters from brides-to-be asking what is proper etiquette for invites and save-the-dates. After all these years, there is still no definitive answer. Each wedding is unique, and so there is no “right” or “wrong’ way to send out your announcements.

Yes, there’s now e-mail, Facebook, and Twitter. But isn’t there something special about receiving an invite in the mail? If you want to do something different than the standard invite, there are several creative choices to look into.

No matter the season or if your wedding is inside or outside, a fan is a unique way to present your wedding day and the welcome that comes with it. Plus, guests will appreciate such a wonderful and functional invite. You can easily go the DIY avenue, or you can have them custom-made. www.citrinedesigns.com Maybe you’re not going with the black tie elegant event. Maybe you know your Big Day is going to be full of surprises - then check out balloon invites. The event details are revealed as soon as your invited guest blows up the balloon. Creative, fun, and definitely a fun surprise!

If you’re going for a more formal wedding, then create the perfect wedding package by sending an invite with a handkerchief or tea towel around the invite. You can use personalized

handkerchiefs or you can find places that provide a discount for purchasing a large quantity. www.giftwagon.com For the Bride and Groom who want to make a classic statement, then vintage movie poster invites are the latest craze.

Just imagine the two of you on an invite mimicking Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman or Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis. Take a sneak peek at www. thenicstudio.com.

Many couples are sending out save-

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

the-dates that are magnetic. Open it.

Read it. Stick it on the fridge. It’s a daily reminder for your guests of your upcoming day. There are other ways to get the word out. You can now get scratch off save-the-dates. Your guest will open it and scratch off to the “where’ or “when” of your wedding. www.swisscottagedesigns.com

you create just for your R.S.V.P’s. It works great because you can copy and paste it and then use your computer to track who is coming and who is unable to attend. This will come in handy when it’s time for you to write thank-you cards, as well. Everything is right on your computer - so there’s no paper hassle.

Here is where the internet comes into play. Many people are now having guests R.S.V.P. to an email address. It can be your personal email or one

No matter how you get the word out – make sure you get all the important information out about two months prior to your Big Day!

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( Toasts ) START STRONG  Giving a toast in front of a crowd may be nerve-racking. Avoid the jitters by practicing your speech ahead of time - and not the day before! Use your smartphone’s recording app to record your toast.

It will give you a good indication of how long your toast is and how fast or slow you are speaking.

Rememberpractice makes perfect!  With all eyes on you, guests may be wondering who you even are and how you know the Bride and Groom. Give a short introduction of who you are. Everyone wants to know who it is that is expressing their friendship and happy wishes to the couple.  You can’t give a toast without a glass in your hand - so make sure to bring a full glass up with you!

Raise

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

Your Glasses THERE ARE 5 “S”s TO REMEMBER WHEN GIVING A MEANINGFUL TOAST. REMEMBER “S” STANDS FOR SUCCESS – WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU’LL HAVE WHEN DELIVERING A MEMORABLE TOAST!

SINCERE AND POSITIVE  Use your natural sense of humor, but stay away from any inside jokes, any “wink wink” stories, and anything that may hurt or offend anyone. Steer clear of any mention of any exes or embarrassing moments of the Bride or Groom.

Remember that the most important people in the couples’ lives are listening!  Share uplifting stories or moments of the Bride and Groom.

You are declaring a collective sentiment to the couple and wishing them well in their marriage.  Refrain from common love quotes or clichéd lines. Really think about why you are happy for the couple.

SPEAK FOR BOTH  You’re toasting the couple - not just one of them, and it’s not the time to talk about yourself. Even if you’re the best man and don’t know the bride that well, speak to and for both of them.  Sharing one or two anecdotes about your friendship with the Bride or Groom is fine, but you don’t need to provide a detailed

AD timeline of your relationship. If the Bride and Groom have asked you to do a toast at one of their most important days of their lives - it’s known that you already have a close relationship with them.

SIMPLE, SHORT, AND SWEET  Keep it simple. Keep it short. Limit your toast to around three minutes. Anything longer and you’ll start to lose the attention and the patience of the audience.  When mentioning any memories or stories - stay focused and to the point.

STAY CLEAR OF THE BAR  You’ve seen the embarrassing moments in movies when a maid of honor or best man has had too much to drink before giving their toast. If watching those moments are embarrassing, then living those moments would be a nightmare for you – and especially the Bride and Groom.  Wait to enjoy the evening. The bar can wait until after you’ve given your sincere toast to two wonderful people.

( Bouquets )

TO HAVE and TO HOLD

Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEDDING BOUQUET MAY FEEL LIKE A DIFFICULT TASK, BUT WITH SOME ASSISTANCE YOU WILL SEE YOUR FLORAL ACCESSORIES FALL PERFECTLY IN TO PLACE.

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Bouquets )

E

very bride is unique. Every wedding is as much of an individual as the bride.Your personality and the inspirations of your wedding day will be seen in every detail of the day.Your bouquet is just as important as your dress. Choosing the right wedding bouquet may feel like a difficult task, but with some assistance you will see your floral accessories fall perfectly in to place.

The design, style and color of your bridal gown are all integral components when choosing floral designs. The color palette of your bridal party, their gowns and styling, enhance the floral theme.The floral designs should act as an accent to the color and style of your bridesmaid’s gowns.

Before starting the process of choosing your wedding flowers you may want to have these decisions in place to allow the floral design process to flow gracefully.

CONSIDER THE SEASON Some flowers may not be available at the time of year that you are getting married. You don’t want to fall in love with one flower and be disappointed that the flower of your dreams cannot be found anywhere in for your March wedding day. Or just as bad, will set you back in budget due to the high cost because they are out of season.

MATCH THE COLOR Color is key. There are so many different shades of white… snow, ivory and cream are just a few. Speak with your florist and see what type of flower they would recommend that works with the exact color of your dress.

Don’t forget about your bridesmaid’s dresses. Most dress stores will have samples or swatches that you can take with you when consulting your florist.

Try to incorporate the exact material when possible. If you are wrapping your bouquet in fabric, ask for any fabric left

over during alterations. You will be sure to have a perfect match!

BEAUTIFUL AND COMFORTABLE Your bouquet is your biggest accessory on your wedding day (after your groom, of course). Your bouquet doesn’t need to just be beautiful; it also has to be comfortable.You will be holding it for most of the day and want it to be with you in many of the photographs that will be taken. Try not to choose anything that is going to be difficult to carry or make you stand awkwardly.

After all the thought you’ve put into your bouquet you may not want to toss it! Preserve it and have the florist make a second bouquet, a smaller version for you to toss.You can keep your bouquet as a beautiful heirloom for years to come!

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

PERSONALIZE IT Ask family members for jewelry, like a brooch your grandmother wore, or earrings that were handed down to your mother. Add a small bow or gems to the bouquet handle. Place a tiny photo of a loved one who is unable to be there on your special day in a small, charm like frame on the handle of your bouquet. Ask your florist for any unique ideas that they have seen other brides do that really made that bouquet unique and special.

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( Centerpieces )

Keep Your Heart at the Center of It All Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

CENTERPIECES ARE A UNIQUE WAY TO ADD CREATIVITY AND YOUR PERSONALITY INTO THE DÉCOR AT YOUR RECEPTION. OF COURSE, THESE AREN’T THE MAIN FOCUS AT YOUR RECEPTION - YOU REMAIN AT THE HEART OF IT ALL!

CHEERS! Wine glasses make simple, yet elegant displays. Gather wine glasses and place them upside down on the table. Place a flameless candle or flowers underneath.

Then place or glue a candle on top. Use pillar or floating candles such as flowers or heart-shaped candles www.orientaltrading.com LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Purchase paper lanterns (www. paperlanternstore.com). Set in the center of the table with a flameless or LED tea light inside the lantern. Place artificial flowers on top of the lanterns. They provide a calming ambiance - and really make the tables glow!

FRESH AND FRUITY Fruit is always in season! Collect large glass vases or large mason jars. Cut

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

fresh fruit like oranges, limes, lemons, or cherries and place in the vase with water. Add fresh flowers on top with colors that complement the fruit (hydrangeas with limes and tulips or roses with lemons). Use twine or burlap to add bows.

MAKE A SPLASH For a beach or summer wedding, fill small jars halfway with sand and then place a flower bud on top of the sand.

Surround the vases with shells and starfish.

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS Use wire photo holder stands (www. aliexpress.com) and insert photos of the Bride and Groom. Use photos of you together at holidays, vacations, or at get-togethers. Also include photos

from when you two were younger.Your baby pics, school memories, or even silly ones. Guests will love looking at the photos – they jog memories and are great conversation starters!

WEDDING WONDERLAND Tree ornaments are not just for the holidays! Use classic or silver ball ornaments and pile them in a silver compote or in jars. Fill in any empty spaces with votives, taper candlesticks, or oversized pinecones. Cranberries and twigs also add a festive touch.

COUNTRY CHIC For a rustic affair, wrap birch bark around a Mason jar and decorate with twine and branches. Place a pillar candle inside, or use fresh Baby’s Breath in lieu of the candle. Either way, this is a beautiful centerpiece inspired by Mother Nature herself.

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( Hairstyles )

What’s the

Best Hairstyle for Your Face Shape?

WE’VE FOUND THE BEST ADVICE FROM PROFESSIONAL STYLISTS FOR THE BRIDE-TO-BE. THE BEST ADVICE OF ALL IS TO WEAR YOUR HAIR FOR YOUR FACE SHAPE. IT’S YOUR DAY - LOOK AND FEEL YOUR ABSOLUTE BEST! ROUND Kate Winslet Drew Barrymore Christina Ricci Fullness is key! To achieve this, choose hairstyles with fullness and height at the crown. Layers are also great to make your face appear slimmer. If you desire curls, then go for wide curls that flow beneath your chin.

SQUARE Demi Moore Sandra Bullock Isabella Rosellini Wispy bangs that will soften your face and boho curls will look great on you! Make sure to off-center parts with height at the crown. Continue with wispy curls around your face, and if going straight, then make sure to add lots of layers.

HEART-SHAPED Michelle Pfeiffer Lucy Lawless Ashley Judd A chin length bobbed hairstyle is perfect for you! Your great cheekbones should be emphasized. But don’t add too much height at the crown or this will take away from those cheekbones. Shaggy layers are also great for your face shape.

Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

LONG Gwyneth Paltorw Kirstie Alley Janet Jackson

OVAL Jennifer Aniston Cameron Diaz Sharon Stone

Wear your hair with fullness and a soft fringe with plenty of layers cut through the length of your hair. Keep your hair above shoulder length. A center or side part will complement your features, as well.

Your hair will look amazing in just about any style, up or down.You will look best when styling your hair off your face.

Slicked-backed looks are also a great option for you!

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Style Tips from the Pros Be sure to schedule your hair appointment at least a month ahead of the wedding.

Do a trial run. Schedule that in advance, as well. Bring your veil, hat, or any other accessory that you will have on your head or in your hair. Have a consolation with the hairdresser to ensure you both are on the same page for the style you want.

Do a trial run with make up on. This will show you exactly how you‘ll look. Makeup changes the way anyone looks, so it’s a good idea to see what your hair will look like with it. Practice makes perfect!

If your wedding pictures are on your wedding day, bring an umbrella or hat cap in case of inclement weather to protect your hair style.

Just remember, you are not completely ready until your hair, makeup, accessories, and dress are together. Keep that in mind, so everything for the special day will come together as planned!

( Makeup )

All Eyes on YOU

YOUR EYES ARE THE WINDOW TO YOUR SOUL. MAKE THEM STAND OUT AND CAPTURE THE ATTENTION THEY DESERVE. Photo by Bri Johnson Photography ©

START WITH THE BASICS Like with anything, you need a good foundation. Apply an eye makeup primer to the entire lid. This will enable the eye shadows and liners to adhere to your lids - giving you a flawless look the entire day and into evening. Airbrushing the base for the eyes is also a great way to acquire a good base.

LUSCIOUS LASHES There’s no doubt there will be tears of joy! Make sure to use mascara that’s waterproof and smudge proof.

The best way to curl your lashes is to gently squeeze the curler instead of clamping down.

Another great thing to consider is using lash extensions. They will allow you to have long, gorgeous lashes without the worry of your mascara running. You can get lash extensions that look completely natural and blend with your real lashes.

LINE TO DEFINE Just like with mascara, you definitely want a waterproof liner. For a natural look, go with a brown liner and for bolder look, a black liner does the trick. Dark purple or navy can be used as an eye liner color if you want to pull out some of those shades from your bouquet or wedding theme. Practice using liner on your upper lash lining and the bottom lash lining to see which looks best for you.

BROW BASICS Nothing frames your face better than your brows! Get the shape that’s right for you by consulting a professional stylist or makeup artist. For most brides, full brows are recommended.

For a full brow look, use something as simple as a powder eyeliner or brown pencil. When using a pencil, always go a shade or two lighter than your own natural eyebrow color.A highlight color in pearl white or cream is perfect for making the brows look more defined and giving your face dimension.

COMPLEMENTARY COLORS Complement your wedding colors with your eyeshadow instead of coordinating them. Your eyes will

stand out better this way because colors won’t be clashing. Consider the color of your dress, bouquet, and overall theme or feel of your wedding

when deciding eyeshadow. A nice, neutral eyeshadow can often look more flattering and add just the right amount of glow to your look.

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography Š

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( Wedding Cakes )

How Sweet It Is THE TRADITIONAL CAKE IS A STAPLE AT MOST WEDDING RECEPTIONS, BUT MORE AND MORE, COUPLES ARE OFFERING DIFFERENT DESSERTS AS A WAY OF GETTING GUESTS OUT OF THEIR SEATS – AND ENJOYING DELICIOUS TREATS!

T

rendy? We think they’re just tasty. Of course we’re talking about cupcakes! Think of them as mini wedding cakes – only fuss-free and easy on the budget.

They are much easier to transport.

Plus, you can have a variety of flavors, with choices for frosting. Decorate with chocolate, frosted flowers, fruit, or have them monogrammed. You can also decorate the papers they are baked in – which opens up a whole new level of creativity. Set out on a table or arrange on a multi-level stand.

Sundae bars are also becoming a favorite! Keep it simple with vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate, or go all out with unique flavors like Tiramisu, Deep Dish Cherry Pie, or Bailey’s Chocolate Chip. But the best part of a sundae bar – all the toppings! Serve everything from candy, fruit, nuts, syrups, and last but not least – whip cream and cherries! The way you present your sundae bar depends on the mood you’re looking to achieve.

Go for simple, a classic twist, or elegant. It all depends on how you decorate the backdrop, containers, labels, and spoons.

There’s nothing as American as pie! So if you’re having an allAmerican wedding or an outdoor country wedding, then pie is the perfect dessert for your guests to enjoy! More and more couples are asking for pie instead of cake. It’s less expensive than a wedding cake.

Plus, it’s a fresh idea, especially when serving pies made with fresh apples or berries. We can just imagine a kitchen full of family and friends baking pies and making sure the dessert at your reception is as good as how grandma always makes them!

So, instead of waiting to be served a piece of cake, guests can indulge their sweet tooth with these delicious alternatives. Plus, it gives you the room for creativity – and gives your guests room for seconds!

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

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( Vows )

Find the Right Words to Say “I Do”

J

IT’S THE POWER OF A PROMISE. SPEAK FROM YOUR HEART.

ust like you’ll work on everything in your new life together, it’s important for you and your partner to work together on your vows.This is the first and official element of your marriage.Together you can decide on what’s important to you and your relationship.

Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography ©

You and your partner might want to answer and discuss some key questions.

What does this marriage mean to you - and to each of you? What are you truly vowing to do and to be in your marriage? You may want to include these sentences into your vows or they might simply help you get started: I love you because….

I will be true to this relationship because….

I will honor you forever because……

For inspiration, you can select a few lines from a book or borrow a romantic verse from a song or poem.Think about how these lines or versus reflect your love and devotion to each other. Some keywords to consider are love, honor, cherish, keep and promise.

To add some humor or more intimate elements to your vows, think about the little things your fiancé does or qualities they have that makes you smile when you think about them.

What funny things do they do that always make you laugh? What silly habits or funny expressions do they have? What defining moment made you think “I want to spend the rest of my life with this person.”

Rekindle memories of the past but also look to your future together.

What emotions do you feel when you think about being together forever.

Do you picture a certain scene (like walking into your new house together or coming home from work every day to say “I missed you today”)?

Write love letters to each other.This gives you the opportunity to share with your fiancé your true feelings and why your love matters. Designate a time to exchange your letters and discuss with each other elements that you think could be incorporated into your vows.

Remember, your vows are a foundation you can rely upon as you grow and change in your new, emerging life. These are more than practiced words, they are an expression of what you hold deep within your heart.

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( 1st Dance )

Making Memories.

Step by Step

YOU’VE SAID “I DO”. NOW IT’S TIME TO BEGIN THE EVENING CELEBRATION

BY WALKING OUT ONTO THE DANCE FLOOR AS HUSBAND AND WIFE. YOUR FIRST SONG TOGETHER WILL FOREVER BE “YOUR” SONG. MAKE IT MEMORABLE.

CLASSIC “We’ve Got Tonight” (Bob Seger) “You are So Beautiful” (Joe Cocker) “At Last” (Etta James) “Unforgettable” (Nat King Cole) “Dream a Little Dream” (Mama & The Papas) “Grow Old With Me” (Mary Chapin Carpenter) “What a Wonderful World”(Louis Armstrong) “Signed, Sealed, and Delivered” (Stevie Wonder) CONTEMPORARY “Time After Time” (Cyndi Lauper) “Everything I Do I Do It For You” (Bryan Adams) “Open Arms” (Journey) “Love of a Lifetime” (Firehouse) “Thank You” (Dido) “A Moment Like This” (Kelly Clarkson) “I’m With You” (Avril Lavigne) COUNTRY “Forever and Ever, Amen” (Randy Travis) “Bless the Broken Road” (Rascall Flatts) “God Gave Me You” (Blake Shelton) “My Best Friend” (Tim McGraw) “She’s Everything” (Brad Paisley) “Lost in This Moment” (Big & Rich) “You’re Still the One” (Shinia Twain)

R&B “I’m Your Angel” (R. Kelly) “No One” (Alicia Keys) “We Found Love” (Rhianna) “All My Life” (K-Ci &JoJo) “Forever” (R. Kelly) “I Do” (Boyz II Men)

ROCK “Today” (Smashing Pumpkins) “Everlong” (Foo Fighters) “I’m Yours” (The Script) “Come to Me” (Goo Goo Dolls) “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” (Aerosmith)

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

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Community

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Photos by Bri Johnson Photography ©

( Gifts & Wedding Favors )

Simple “Thank You” Touches JUST AS MUCH AS YOU CHERISH EACH OTHER, YOUR GUESTS WILL FOREVER CHERISH THESE HANDCRAFTED GIFTS.

RELIVE THE MOMENTS Create a short video that shows the “Behind the Scenes” of your Big Day. Include the dress fitting, engagement photo shoot, and rehearsal dinner. Add a special touch at the end with a “thank you” to your guests. Create a custom cover with guests’ names or include a reception menu on the case or sleeve.

MUSIC & MEMORIES Your guests will reminisce about your special day when they listen to the “soundtrack” of your wedding. Make a CD with songs from the ceremony, reception, and even some “hidden tracks” (songs that are special between you and your fiancé).

Print CD labels and add an extra touch by decorating the sleeve with ribbons, stickers, or a special photo.

LOVE JAR Your guests will have a blast while they test their knowledge about the Bride and Groom! Type facts or trivia questions about the couple. Include questions like “Where did the couple meet?” or “What’s the couple’s favorite restaurant?” Make copies and cut out in thin strips. Fold and place strips in a small Mason jar or small glass jar. Glue a picture of you and your fiancé on the lid and decorate with ribbon.

THE SWEETEST ‘LIL THINGS Who doesn’t love candy? Fill mesh bags or tulle with ring pops, sweethearts, Dove heart-shaped chocolates, Hershey’s kisses, and personalized M&Ms (www.mymms. com). Buy candy after Valentine’s Day for a great deal on candy! Attach a ribbon with a message that says “Thanks for Being so Sweet.”

LET LOVE GROW Use pre-packaged flower seeds or create your own envelopes and place seeds in them. Write on the envelope “Place these seeds and watch them bloom, just like the love of this bride and groom.”

Or create your own poem or saying.

ETERNAL FLAME Buy small glass jars and use Mod Podge to glue your wedding invite to the jar. Cut out a small heart in the invite before gluing.

Place a tea light in the middle. For an extra touch, buy personalized match books that say “A Perfect Match” with your names on them (www.thestationarystudio.com).

Place next to the candle at each guest’s seat.

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