Exquisite Bride New Jersey Summet 2016

Exquisite Bride The Region’s Preferred Wedding Magazine Serving Ocean and Monmouth Counties, New Jersey

Summer 2016

Budget 101:

Spend Wisely

A Beautiful Backdrop:

Say “I Do” at the Channel Club

The Best Under One Roof:

Untouchable Entertainment

www.exquisitebridenj.net

Exquisite Bride

The Region’s Preferred Wedding Magazine

Welcome to the Summer 2016 issue of Exquisite Bride Magazine. On behalf of the entire EB family we want to say, “Congratulations!” Being in love is an extraordinary feeling, and this is such an exciting time in your life as you plan your wedding and venture into the world of wedded bliss.

New Jersey couples have a unique sense of style. To help nurture that flair, we have produced a stunning magazine that engages with local wedding trends, sophisticated product features, local couples and expert advice. Exquisite Bride is also designed to connect wedding venues, businesses and retailers to the regions’ most discerning couples.

So with that, it is our hope that you enjoy this issue of the magazine. Cheers to the incredible journey that is marriage! May your future together be filled with love and happiness and leave you feeling joyfully fulfilled!

Publishers: Jennifer K. Bergstresser R. Tyler Moorhead Managing Partner: Malissa Walthall Executive Editor: Jennifer K. Bergstresser Art Director: Paula Hannam Advertising Sales: Malissa Walthall Contributing Jennifer Doncsecz Writers: Laurin Fegley Susan Powell Maureen Sangiorgio

Cover & Untouchable Feature Couple Entertainment Photography

For advertising information, to submit a story idea or to request a free copy of the magazine please contact us at: Slappy Media Group - New Jersey Office Phone: 484-597-9243 Email: malissa.exquisitebride@gmail.com Slappy Media Group Corporate Office 36 South 11th Street, Allentown, PA. 18102 Phone: 484-767-5850 or 610-730-4106 Email: jenn.exquisitebride@gmail.com Website: www.exquisitebridenj.net Exquisite Bride Magazine is a division of Slappy Media Group.

Exquisite Bride is a free quarterly publication that is distributed throughout Ocean and Monmouth Counties in New Jersey.

Reproduction in part or whole without the consent of Slappy Media Group is strictly prohibited. Slappy Media Group reserves the right to accept any advertising or editorial and the final decision to accept or deny any information is the right of the Publisher.

All advertising within Exquisite Bride is believed to be accurate and therefore Slappy Media Group assumes no responsibility for damages, errors or omissions in the magazine. All advertisements and their contents are the sole responsibility of the advertisers.

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Table of Contents 6 ~ Feature Couple: Jennifer Kitsch & Luke McCormick

6

8 ~ Venue Spotlight: The Channel Club 12 ~ Vendor Spotlight: Untouchable Entertainment 16 ~ Wedding Day Skin Care Story by: Maureen Sangiorgio

12 18

18 ~ Top it Off: The Veil Story by: Susan Powell 22 ~ Budget 101 Story by: Laurin Fegley 28 ~ Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Hot Spots Story by: Jennifer Doncsecz

Cover Photo: Our cover photo is courtesy of Untouchable Entertainment

and comes from the wedding of our feature couple Jennifer Kitsch & Luke McCormick at the Channel Club in Monmouth Beach, NJ. 4 Exquisite Bride | www.exquisitebridenj.net

Feature Couple Jennifer Kitsch & Luke McCormick

Wedding Date: October 11 2015

Ceremony Location: St. Agnes Church, Atlantic Highlands Reception Location: The Channel Club, Monmouth Beach Gown Purchased at: Oleg Cassini gown from David’s Bridal, Freehold Tuxedos/Suits from: Tuxedo Park, Shrewsbury Engagement Ring from: Neves Jewelers Inc., Shrewsbury Wedding Bands from: Neves Jewelers Inc., Shrewsbury Bridesmaids Attire from: Vera Wang gowns from David’s Bridal Photographer: Untouchable Entertainment DJ/Band: Untouchable Entertainment Transportation: V.E.I. Videographer: Untouchable Entertainment Bakery: Veriella’s Bakery in Carlstadt Invitations: Thinking Paper LLC - Middletown Caterer: The Channel Club

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Hair Stylist: Jan Kwacz, Independent Hairstylist Bride, Mother of the Bride, Matron of Honor, 2 Brides Maids and both flower girls. Silvana Zinna, Independent Hairstylist 4 Brides Maids Makeup Artist: Carly from Make Me Up Eva Florist: Peter James of Couture Events of NJ Travel Agency: The TravelSmiths, Point Pleasant Honeymoon Location: Hawaii - Maui Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria Resort and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

Feature Couple (cont’d.)

How Did You Meet I was having a bad couple of weeks and my sister insisted on taking me out to cheer me up.

We went to the Boathouse in Belmar just to sit and chat, but there were no tables available.

Luke came over introduced himself and offered us his table. We graciously accepted thinking we would have a moment to talk, but he sat down with us and never left. By the end of the night we exchanged numbers and down the line began dating and fell in love. Whenever he tells the story he says that he noticed me as soon as I walked in the door because I was the most beautiful girl there and he was not going to leave without meeting me.

How Did He Propose Every year we buy a new sentimental ornament for our Christmas tree; however, this particular year I was so busy with school and work I did not have the opportunity to look for one with him. On December 19, 2014, I was working from home and he was finishing the last touches on our Christmas tree. As a surprise he told me he found a sentimental ornament and to go look at it on the tree. I was in a rush so I quickly saw the ornament, commented on how beautiful it

was and went to walk away when I noticed he was on one knee. He asked me to go look at the ornament again. I walked back and this time noticed my gorgeous ring attached to it. When I turned around, he proposed. It was such an incredible and perfect moment. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

Advice for Future Brides and Grooms Take a deep breath and enjoy every moment of the planning. Don’t stress on the small stuff, no matter what, the day will be everything you’ve always dreamed of because you are marrying the love of your life! Remember to never go to bed angry, say I love you daily, agree to disagree, always hold hands and love one another unconditionally.

Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 7

Venue Spotlight:

The Channel Club

Editorial and Photos: Courtesy of The Channel Club

Enjoy your once in a lifetime celebration in a one of a kind setting…

Your wedding celebration will be a day you and your guests will remember for many years to come. The Channel Club provides a breathtaking backdrop for this special day and we strive for perfection in every detail. We offer the most sought after elements in a wedding venue: supreme quality and understated elegance, located in an exclusive waterfront setting. Our bi-level facility is nestled within a private marina with panoramic water views from each level.

If you are looking for an onsite wedding ceremony, look no further than our beautiful garden and dock area on the picturesque Shrewsbury River, complete with palm trees during the late Spring to late Fall months and an abundance of seasonal flowers everywhere, throughout the year. If the weather prevents us from celebrating your ceremony outside, we have beautiful indoor accommodations overlooking the water as a backup scenario. We never make a decision to be inside or outside until the day of your wedding to make sure we have the best chance of celebrating where

you desire. Brides have the opportunity of using our bridal suite to get ready and we can also talk about making the facility available to you and/or your bridal party early for preceremony pictures, as well.

If you celebrate your ceremony elsewhere, we begin with your indoor/outdoor cocktail hour in our waterfront Regency Room, with glass atrium leading out to our garden and dock areas, then continue with a gorgeous reception, of up to 250 guests, in our Terrace Room, featuring huge windows on three sides overlooking the water and evening sunsets.

Our Wedding specialists take a personal interest in your wedding, making your celebration the most memorable one possible.

Add to that, our Executive Chef, culinary team, Maître D’ and service staff, stand ready to entice your guests with mouth-watering cuisine and white-glove elegance.

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Venue Spotlight (cont’d)

It has been said that The Channel Club is the best kept secret for weddings on the “Jersey Shore”. We invite you to experience your exclusive reception with us while we focus on creating the perfect day for you and your guests. Memorable wedding pictures become treasured family heirlooms. Couples may stroll along the water’s edge, embrace in our private garden, or pose for unforgettable photographs on our private dock. Lively wedding party photos will be treasured equally with formal

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portraits taken in a variety of settings, both inside and outside, at our beautiful location.

Once you’ve had a chance to get to know the wedding professionals at The Channel Club, you will find that the only thing we overlook is the waterfront.

We look forward to the opportunity to enhance all the aspects of your wedding day with the unparalleled quality and service which has become our trademark at The Channel Club. www.channelclubnj.com

Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 11

Vendor Spotlight: Untouchable Entertainment

When you are planning your “BIG DAY” and it comes to thinking about hiring the photographer and entertainment, you don’t have to look any further!

Meet Untouchable Entertainment. Their philosophy is simple: successful weddings each and every time. “Building relationships with our clients is what Untouchable is all about!

We do not simply sign a contract and not contact you until a week before your event. We act as your wedding coordinator and are here to help you every step of the way,’’ says Owner and Master Bridal Consultant, Jason Greiner.

At Untouchable, not only are you able to select the perfect DJ team that fits your style, you also get to meet with them before your wedding!

When you book with Untouchable, you also receive a personal bridal consultant to help you every step of the way. Greiner says, “We encourage you to come in for creative meetings throughout the planning process to go over all of your ideas! We love being able to help you see your wedding vision more clearly and coming up with new & exciting ways to make your wedding reception stand above the rest!”

SERVICES WE OFFER Photography: We take pride in our photography and pay special attention to your unique style! We provide traditional, contemporary, and candid styles of photography for you to choose from. When

celebrating your special day, our staff of Award Winning Photographers will ensure that each precious moment is captured in stunning quality! Following your Wedding, our staff of professional photographers and photo editors are always available to our clients to discuss album customization, additional edits, custom thank you cards, and more! All images are edited and professionally retouched by our photo graphic artists before we present them to you. Our albums and enlargements are uniquely designed to suit your personal style by our on-site professional staff.

DJ: Our NJ DJ Service Packages for Weddings are completely customizable. We provide a wide selection of music from the 1940’s to today’s hits! Every celebration is fully customized to meet your party needs. All of Untouchable’s DJs and Party Hosts are trained to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism! In addition, Up-lighting, dancing on the Clouds and Winter Wonderland are all options that can be added to any package.

Videography: All too often, we hear from our clients that the day passes by in the blink of an eye. Avoid missing all of the little details of your special day and have your event professionally videotaped!

Untouchable employs award winning cinematographers, post production staff, and editors to ensure the elegance, beauty, and priceless moments of your most special occasions are captured.

Continued on page 14

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Vendor Spotlight (cont’d.)

With the latest technology we are able to accommodate our clients with: blu-ray high definition products, fully authored DVD’s with chapter selection menus, beautiful recaps set to the music of your choice plus so much more!

Photo Booths: Everyone loves our NJ boardwalk style photo booths! We have the perfect package for you! Our Photo Booth Packages feature: Professional on-site booth attendant, Personalized event theme under each photo strip in your Photo Booth, Personalized photo format options including photo strips and 4×6 images, Choice of color or black and white photos, Unlimited high-quality digital prints, Special features included with your Photo Booth: All guests in the booth have the opportunity to make a 30 Second Video that will be put on a DVD later for the hosts.

Imagine the joy of having a DVD from your party with friends and family saying “Congratulations on your wedding! We’re having a great time!” All images that guests take in the Photo Booth are also saved for the Bride & Groom on a custom DVD. We also offer email and Facebook option for Photo Booth pictures right on the spot!

Officiants: Our NJ Wedding Officiants include Catholic Priests, Rabbis and NonDenominational Ministers. All Untouchable Entertainment NJ Wedding Officiants will help customize your ceremony to be beautiful, tasteful, and memorable!

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Your officiant will assist you every step of the way when selecting special readings, vows, and dedications. Your officiant will also guide you in the process of obtaining your marriage license, as well as insuring the proper filing of your license after your wedding. From start to finish, your officiant is a powerful ally in making your special day a success!

Other Services: Untouchable Entertainment also offers TV Packages with Custom Photo Montages, Zap Photography, CO2 Canons, Custom Monograms, Step & Repeats and more!

We pride ourselves on creating completely customized packages that fit every couple’s wishes...and their budget! We have multiple packages you can choose from or you can build a personalized package in our office with your bridal consultant! Every season we offer new bridal show package specials that are an excellent value for your special day in addition to our regular packages. We also offer in-house discounts each month to our couples once you are booked with us if you are interested in adding on elements such as monograms, uplighting, photo montages, and more!

Need help coordinating your wedding the day of? Your bridal consultant is also available to be your day of wedding coordinator to ensure every detail of your day goes flawlessly. Your coordinator will be with you starting in the morning with your bridal prep to ensure you run on-time and all of your vendors are ready to go!

This summer (2016), Untouchable Entertainment is celebrating 22 years in business, and we welcome you to visit us at our brand new wedding center located at 245 Atlantic City Blvd, Beachwood, NJ, or visit us online at www.myuntouchableentertainment.com.

Family Owned & Family Owned & Operated for Over Family Owned & Operated for Over 26 Years!

Operated for Over 26 Years!

26 Years!

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732-441-9400 WWW.VEIPARTYBUS.COM 732-441-9400 WWW.VEIPARTYBUS.COM 732-441-9400 WWW.VEIPARTYBUS.COM Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 15

Wedding Day Skin Care

By Maureen Sangiorgio Worried about how to get your skin in top-notch shape for your wedding day?

Take a deep breath and relax! Follow this step-by-step countdown for glowing wedding skin.

Six Months Prior:

Moisturize from the inside out. Whether your skin is oily or dry, skin craves water, so aim for 8 to 10 glasses a day. Keep a water bottle at work, and one in your car for quick and easy access. Also snack on moisture-rich foods such as watermelon, grapefruit, broccoli, and lettuce.

Nix the java. It’s not only better for your skin, but the last thing you need now is drinking anything that makes you stressed out! It’s easier to gradually cut out caffeinated foods and drinks rather than going cold turkey right before the wedding.

Three Months Prior:

Schedule your first facial. “Three months prior to the wedding the bride should have a consultation with a licensed, reputable skin care professional,” advises Irene Kouflis of European Body Concepts. “The bride should then get a facial once a month until a week before the wedding. The facials should minimize large pores, even out skin tone, and result in glowing skin for all the wedding photos.” Also discuss make up, eye brow shape, excess facial hair, and Brazilian waxing.

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One Week Prior:

Exfoliate. “I recommend a Vichy full-body exfoliation so the skin glows, and to make it come alive when wearing the bridal gown,” says Kouflis. “Exfoliating the skin will also make it more receptive to an all-over-body moisturizer in tint Veil Shimmer so the skin sparkles!”

Apply a self-tanner. Follow these tips from the American Academy of Dermatology: • First, apply an exfoliating product to help remove dead skin cells. Spend a little more time exfoliating where your skin is thickest — elbows, knees and ankles.

• Second, dry your skin so the self-tanner goes on evenly.

• Third, apply the self-tanner in sections (such as the arms, then legs, followed by the torso). Massage the self-tanner into your skin in a circular motion.

• Wash your hands after each section to avoid orange-colored palms.

• Give your skin time to dry. Wait at least 10 minutes before getting dressed. For the next three hours, it is best to wear loose clothing and try to avoid sweating.

The Bridal Veil A Finishing Touch

By Susan Powell, Owner, Bridals by Sandra

To veil or not to veil, that is the question. Today’s Bridal Designers are creating new and exciting looks for their beautiful bridal creations.

For many seasons the trendy bride felt it stylish to omit this important finishing touch.

However, today’s designers are featuring hair ornaments with creative veiling to complete the bridal attire. There is a very special feeling a bride gets when she puts on her veil to begin her walk down the aisle.

The bridal industry has changed greatly throughout the years. The wedding gown companies manufactured both the gown and the matching veil. They were featured together in magazine and all print ads.

Today, companies are more specialized. The veils are more creative and unique. They are produced in a different facility and frequently not coming together for print ads. Although the reasons for wearing a veil differ with religious and cultural beliefs, there is no denying the emotional feeling a girl will have when placing it on her head for the very first time.

In 2015, shoe designers have taken us back to‘70s with the return of the popular platform shoe. Today’s hair ornaments continue with the return of the 70’s trend by showing off the wide, Woodstock inspired headband and floral wreath. They are worn with or without the traditional bridal veil.

Fashion forward veils are trimmed with the same Swarovski crystal trim or detailed lace featured on your wedding gown with many designers also choosing to add the romantic beauty of silk flowers to the veil.

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The Bridal Veil cont’d The stylish Angel Cut or Shaped Veil begins at the shoulders and flows to the fingertips creating a more romantic styling. The Straight Cut Veil is worn behind the shoulders to create a more sophisticated look. Petite brides, as well as the tall model type bride, both enjoy the whimsical beauty of the cathedral length veil that will elongate the bride and show off the beautiful train detailing.

The veil is cut wider to avoid hiding the beauty of your gown. This veil will be bustled into your gown during your fitting so you can appreciate its beauty without removing it at the reception. Be cautious of the classic fingertip length veil as it often cuts off the back of the gown creating an unflattering appearance of a line going across the back of your gown. It may need to be shortened during your gown fitting to avoid this unflattering line. Your Professional Bridal Consultant will assist you with these concerns to insure you the perfect gown photos.

You will be able to wear the special veil only once. Be sure when shopping for your Dream Wedding Gown, you try on a veil at the same time. Don’t forget its importance. Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime moment.

Shapes of Bridal Veils have changed greatly. A long cathedral veil is not cut wider than any 20 Exquisite Bride | www.exquisitebridenj.net

other veil. The long veil should be worn 12” longer than the train of the wedding gown.

It will be wider than the other veils to show off the back of the gown without hiding the gorgeous back detailing of today’s fashions.

A shaped veil starts at the shoulders and will also add height to that petite bride. Beaded trim on the edge of the veil will add a finishing touch to a beaded gown neckline.

Today’s Bride enjoys that feminine flair.

Whether arranging a wedding outdoors, on a beach, in a garden, winery or natural barn setting, the feminine, romantic appearance of that veil in the breeze is the delicate touch today’s bride appreciates.

Budget 101 Spend it Wisely

By Laurin Fegley, Owner Simply Smooth Catering and Event Planning

Since one’s budget plays such a big role in the things that are possible, it should be just about the first item to be addressed shortly after “I will”!

There are many excellent questions that deserve a lot of answers regarding the funding and proper planning of your wedding and your overall wedding day.

Ultimately whatever your choices, they need to fit into your wallet, especially if you plan on making it happen so that you are less stressed and more comfortable in the weeks and months before your wedding.

The website www.costofwedding.com is a very useful resource to see what the average cost of weddings are nationwide. Put in your zip code and see what things cost in the market you are located in.

Selecting quality vendors to provide your services is key to a less stressful planning process. There are books to go with books and guides like the one in the back of this magazine that will all help you in determining what a reasonable budget might be. But before you go to that section here are key things to keep in mind…

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Keep everything together so contracts and details aren’t everywhere…

You probably don’t need a spreadsheet or a degree in mathematics, but just the ability to keep everything together, in one folder, with an accounting of what you’ve spent – and you’ll be golden! The more that can get forgotten or lost, the more costly your wedding will become.

When to book a facility and at what cost…

Before you book a venue get a reasonable estimate on what the “real” costs are of having an event there, not just a rental fee! Does it require tenting, dance floor, ceremony chairs, etc.? That estimate needs to include approved vendors, actual costs or reasonable estimates over the phone and any hidden fees. Don’t hesitate to ask vendors or the venue about these costs!

What About Bar Packages?

Can I provide my own alcohol? If so, who can serve it? Preferred Vendors or the cost of using a vendor who is not preferred?

What is the cost of an extra hour? What time does the party need to end? When does set-up need to occur? These are just a few of the questions that you are going to want to make sure you ask when considering where your reception is going to take place.

If a facility is more than 12-16% of your total budget for the day and does not include catering, this will probably not work out well in the future. With catering and or a bar package you’ll be more in the 60-65% of total budget range. Once booked it’s a little late to find out that it’s not within your budget and you often cannot get your money!

What does having an outdoor reception do to my cost?

“I want to have my wedding in my parents’ yard to save money.” Ah, no.

Outdoor weddings add 35-40% or more to the cost of any party. Those costs are related to tenting, tables, chairs, dance floor and other rentals including nice rest facilities for your guests.

Most of those additional costs are not necessary in a traditional venue where you also have the luxuries of air conditioning, heat, being dry and restrooms. So with all that being said and you have the budget, nothing can be more beautiful than a welldesigned outdoor affair!

Assume nothing in your budget!

Filling in the blanks on a budget page with what you “think” some items should cost may be disastrous! For instance, did you think about the dance floor or lighting to go with the tenting you’ll need for your outdoor event? If you didn’t, that could prove to be a $1,000 mistake. A few phone calls will probably save you much aggravation later!

Vendors can help you make wise choices as to what you will need, how much it costs and remind you of some items like lighting in the tent that you might not have thought about until it’s dark!

In planning, there is nothing wrong with adding in a “slush” fund for add-ons later or slight miscalculations in the initial planning stage. It’s recommended that you leave about 10% in this area just in case something arises that you weren’t expecting!

How do I budget for Catering?

Most people have no problem with the cost of a catering menu, yet rarely do folks realize that the cost of that $35-$50 menu is just the beginning of catering. There are always linens, china, flatware, stemware and more!

Continued on page 24

Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 23

Budget 101 (cont’d.)

Staffing is usually billed on an as-needed basis versus just paying a percentage-based gratuity, there can often be a service charge which covers other related costs, and of course, gratuity. Those things can be nearly twice as costly as the base cost of the food itself. A catering budget may be as high as 60% of your overall budget for your wedding.

Transportation: What does a reasonable limousine cost?

The average cost of a stretch sedan limousine is about $350 - $475 for a 3-4 hour package, which in most cases is ample. Stretch SUV’s will start around $750 - $1,000 and will be higher in price depending on the seating capacity.

Specialty cars can be procured, usually starting somewhere in the area of $1,000 and will usually have mileage limitations as well. Additional hours can be added in advance, but not always the day of as the same car may have a job following yours – confirm this in advance with your coach company.

Photography: Images, glorious images!

There are a wide range of photographers with a wide range of price points.

Photography, like several other areas of wedding planning, is subjective as an art form. You will find photographers from a few hundred dollars to those that cost thousands of dollars and everything in between. On average good quality 24 Exquisite Bride | www.exquisitebridenj.net

photography costs start somewhere around $2,000. Some professionals cost significantly more. We would always suggest meeting with several varied priced photographers to feel the difference for yourself. Be sure to understand what’s included up front as the base cost of the packages all include different perks and conditions such as albums, copyrights and amount of time on site the day of your wedding.

Florists: Stop and Smell the Roses!

As is true in almost every other aspect of planning your wedding, this area varies greatly. An average wedding of 3-4 attendants on each side, with a tasteful bridal bouquet, bridesmaids bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, and church pieces will be starting at $1,000 -$1,200 depending on specifics.

Reception designs may be part rental and part fresh flowers, all fresh flowers, or any combination in between. Centerpieces generally start at about $50 - $60 per table for something fitting at a reception site.

There are always options to cost less, and of course the sky can be the limit!

Entertainment: Let the Music Play…

This is a make it or break it service! No one forgets a DJ who thinks everyone wants to hear him and not the music. Make sure when you are selecting a personality that you select the actual person you will have at your reception. Good DJ’s start at $1,000, with lighting packages and other options available as well.

Some entertainment companies start in price at $2500 and up. Bands usually price from $4000 for some local ones to $8-12000 for a metro band.

Dessert: Sweets, glorious sweets!

A wedding cake is a work of art. Learning the difference between whipped cream,

rolled fondant and butter cream is not a bad experience – because you get to eat cake the whole way through! Be wary of your friend who knows someone who wants to make your cake. Most people don’t have proper refrigeration in their homes to hold a wedding cake at a low enough temperature and delivery is challenging to say the least.

Next to the happy couple, this is the second most photographed item at a wedding – it’s worth paying a professional for that reason alone! A good range for pricing is as follows: Butter cream cakes from $3.50/slice, Whipped cream cakes from $4/slice and Fondant ranges from about $6/slice

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Contact: Jersey Shore Photo Booths 732-674-2481 Email: info@jerseyshorephotobooths.com jerseyshorephotobooths.com *For use within New Jersey Venues Only, Non-transferable, not valid on holidays or holiday weekends, not to be combined with any other offer, not redeemable for cash, new bookings only, and subject to availability. Please mention this offer when booking.*

Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 25

Budget 101 (cont’d.) depending on the difficulty of the pattern, could be more. Fillings can add about another dollar or so to the pricing. Various patterns will add to pricing as well, but there are many beautiful affordable ones that will be options as well!

Invitations: Save the Date...

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Most invitations start at about $2 each on a seal and send to $3-5/set for basic sets. Pockets and other really nice upscale options will range from $7 and up.

When does DIY make sense?

Most couples will find that doing a lot of DIY projects with details that have to wait until the day or two before their wedding day can prove frustrating as there is so much going on those last few days and friends are flying in from out of town, etc. At the end of the day, if you can do some DIY projects and be done a few weeks before your wedding – go for it. If it requires you baking your own cake or making your own centerpieces or something else that has to wait until the last minute, hire a professional – you won’t regret the peace of mind and sleep you’ll get the night before your wedding.

At the end of the day, this sums up to one thing – what is the actual budget you have available to spend and how can you most wisely use those funds to create a wonderful day for you and your guests to remember for years to come. If it’s not affordable then look further, change your concept or ask your vendors for advice. Combined you will probably work with people who have a hundred years or more of experience – don’t hesitate to ask for their expertise!

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Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 27

The Party Before the Party Top 5 Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Destinations Photography by Jennifer Doncsecz, VIP Vacation

Searching for a fun location to celebrate your single years before you wed or are you in charge of your friend’s bachelor/bachelorette party? The mini-vacation parties have become a popular trend and are more than just a night out on the town. Because of the growing interest in unique getaways, the traditional places like Las Vegas and NYC parties have become a thing of the past.

With that being said, if you want to have the getaway to remember, here are my top 5 bachelor/bachelorette party destinations: 2: South Beach, Miami Want to stay in the US but love a gorgeous beach and want some night life too? South Beach Miami is the ideal location for a tropical party spot. With sleek and trendy hotels and an amazing night scene, you can spend your days sitting on the beach and your nights’ club hopping on Collins Avenue.

1: Nashville, Tennessee Even if you are not a fan of country music, this Tennessee city is the perfect location for southern charm, outstanding barbeque and pub crawls. They call this city the “Broadway of the south” because there are shows, live music and night clubs. It’s also fun to put on a cowboy hat and ride a mechanical bull before you go line dancing.

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3: New Orleans, Louisiana The Big Easy has always been known for a crazy party scene during Mardi Gras, but it is also a fabulous place to celebrate your last single days throughout the year. The art and culture scene as well as live Jazz shows and being able to partake in the best Creole and Cajun cuisine make this hot spot unique. For a fun mix, you can explore the Mississippi on a river boat cruise during the day and walk Bourbon street at night.

4: Napa Valley, California Interested in a more reserved destination?

Amazing wine and a stunning backdrop make Napa Valley a popular location for any bachelorette/bachelor party. With numerous wineries and some of the best spa’s in the country, it is easy to stay at a B & B, sample wine, take in a spa treatment and eat at top restaurants! For an added adventure a hot air balloon ride provides stunning views of the vineyards!

5: Puerto Rico Looking for the Caribbean but don’t want the hassle of having to get a passport? Puerto Rico is the ideal Caribbean location because as a US territory it doesn’t require a passport.

With daytime activities like surfing, kayaking, hiking the rain forests and walking the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, those who want more than sun/beach can be as active or adventurous as they wish. In addition, there are plenty of salsa clubs, hip bars and casinos to party the night away in.

Summer 2016 | Exquisite Bride 29

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