Fall 2014 Bridal Guide

Bridal Guide Fall 2014

kpcnews.com

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Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Here’s to your special day!

Putting together the perfect wedding takes much planning.

That’s why we have created this guide. We want to make sure your special day is wonderful and one that you remember forever!

Our Fall 2014 Bridal Guide will help you make many of the biggest decisions that lie ahead. From taking the stress out of planning to creating the proper toast to the happy couple, the guide offers much valuable information.

We also hope you will enjoy a few special stories about local people and their experiences with getting married.

As you read through these pages, we hope you will find the information helpful as you plan for the big day.

This guide is also available online at kpcnews.com.

Best wishes to all of the happy couples out there in northeast Indiana from all of us at KPC Media Group!

ON THE COVER: The Noble County Courthouse in Albion towers over bride and groom Janessey and Chad Kline. Chad is a Noble County Commissioner and wanted to include the beautiful building in his wedding photos.

Photo by J. Michael Photography

stress

Try not to out over planning your wedding

BY OCTAVIA LEHMAN olehman@kpcmedia.com

AUBURN — You’re engaged. Now what? Plan, plan, plan.

When my fiance, Shawn Yoder, proposed in February, we knew that we didn’t want to wait until 2015 to get married. We both love fall and decided on a date in October.

We had eight months to plan, and time keeps winding down. By the time this article gets to print, we’ll be at two months until the wedding date — and I’ll still be changing my mind on centerpieces!

Trying to be frugal and realistic about planning a wedding, we made a decision to not spend an astronomical amount on the wedding.

According to the Knot.com, the average wedding costs around $25,000.

You don’t need to spend more to have a great celebration. A great party is See STRESS page 4

BK PHOTOGRAPHY.

Octavia Lehman and her fiance Shawn Yoder at her parent’s home in LaGrange. The two will be married in October at their church in Goshen, Believers Fellowship.

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260.336.0038 Visit us online at lakesideoccasions.com 2595 S. 625 W. • Topeka, IN 46571 Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 3

STRESS From page 3

about the people.

Pinterest is a great tool for wedding planning. Yet, you can get into problems with too much comparison.

Do what you want and don’t worry about what other people are doing.

Sometimes in the midst of it all, you can forget why you’re doing what you’re doing. If you worry too much about what other people will think, it can cause stress.

I’m not a professional when it comes to weddings. I don’t have the flair for decorating or designing, but I know that planning a wedding means staying on track, especially for a procrastinator like me. Here are a few things I’ve learned in the last few months:

Wedding tips

• Stay organized: Buy a wedding planner guide or sign up for an online service. There are several iPhone and Android apps that can help you stay on track with booking services.

• Venue: Make a guest list BEFORE

booking a venue. Even if you think you want a smaller wedding, your guest list might be bigger than you realize, especially if you have a large family.

We had our heart set on a certain location and booked it — and then realized that our guest list was greater than what we expected.

• Keep him involved: Engage your fiance in the wedding planning and let him have a say in what you’re doing. It’s a good way to learn how to compromise and work as a team.

If he really wants camoflauge in the wedding and you say it will never happen, let him choose something. I let Shawn pick a wedding color — his favorite color — orange.

• DIY invitations: Invitations can make a statement, but how many people keep the invitations after the wedding? I found a wonderful designer on Esty, an online marketplace, who charged $35 to design my wedding invitations. I then took the design to a local printer and purchased my envelopes online.

• Go with a postcard: Consider using a postcard-sized RSVP. You’ll need one less envelope, and if you are planning on including postage it costs less than a regular stamp. For more savings post-wedding, make a

thank-you postcard with a photo from your wedding day.

• Buffet service: Instead of opting for sit-down meal service, go with the buffet. Guests will still get the same great-tasting food and mingle more with other guests. Fees for service can add up very quickly.

• Less flowers: Baby’s Breath is all the rage, and rightly so — the flowers are beautiful and make a simple statement. A single flower in a small vase or jar can be just as beautiful as a large bouquet, too. Less is more.

• Goodbye, cake: It’s OK to say goodbye to cake. Cake cutting fees can add up. And if you’re crazy like me and don’t like cake, you can serve your favorite sweet treats. If you really want cake, have a small one to keep with tradition, and serve other desserts. Who says you can’t have pie and cupcakes?

Or a frozen yogurt bar? Savor your sweet tooth.

• Programs: Consider making an introductory video that plays before the ceremony. I’ve been to a wedding where the couple introduced themselves and the bridal party. The video was a cute way to introduce guests to people they might not know.

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See STRESS page 5

STRESS From page 4

• Scan Craigslist: You might be able to find bargains on wedding decorations that you can rent, or bargain for a good price.

• Honeymoon: It’s OK to stay stateside for the honeymoon. You won’t have to deal with long flights if the destination is within driving distance. If you’re choosing a destination outside of the United States, you might spend up to two days in airports.

The honeymoon is about enjoying your time together. If you’re having a hard time coming up with travel ideas, or don’t want to deal with planning a trip after planning a wedding, go with a travel agent. Using a travel agent is not as expensive as you might think and they’re professionals — so you can rest and relax on your honeymoon.

• Be Happy With What You Have: Second-guessing decisions?

Don’t. You’ll only cause stress. Once you’ve made a decision, it’s normal to question yourself. You need to realize that there are many options and no option is the best option. You’re getting married, that’s the important part.

STELLHORN PHOTO

Colorful bouquets Flowers provided by Rose’s Bouquets of Fort Wayne matched the colors of the wedding with the bride’s bouquet slightly different from the bridesmaids’.

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Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

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outdoor

Great

flora available for nuptials

BY JENNIFER DECKER jdecker@kpcmedia.com

FRED WOOLEY

A June wedding for one couple, the Smiths, is performed on the Potawatomi Inn’s sun deck at Pokagon State Park. The deck is one of the many outdoor options at Pokagon for weddings.

Page 6

LAKE JAMES — Northeast Indiana offers the perfect option for a wedding venue — the great outdoors.

Different types of ceremonies customized by couples for their nuptials have been held around the area, including Pokagon State Park, Lake James, and not just on the sun deck of the Potawatomi Inn there.

Fred Wooley, Pokagon interpreter, said natural-type weddings have been held over the years incorporating the park’s nature.

“One year ago in mid-May we had one at the playground,” he said. “The dogwoods were in bloom.”

Wooley also said a few weeks ago, a couple said their vows at the Civilian Conservation Corps Shelter.

“Others probably want a shelter and go about it the regular way. The group camp is (available) for a reception,” Wooley said.

Pokagon can make special park accommodations for events. Contact the park office for more details at 833-2012.

Others wishing to get married at Pokagon and follow Wooley’s suggestions are invited to visit camp.in.gov for rental rates and more details.

Another location to celebrate wedding flora is the Gene Stratton Porter State Historic Site, Rome City.

Tiffany Conrad, the site’s assistant manager, said currently, a wedding is scheduled in October. Since the site’s last day for the season is Nov. 1, wedding ceremonies may be held up to that time.

Conrad said the grounds are ideal for photo opportunities.

“Our outdoor weddings are usually in Gene’s gardens and use a 120-foot wisteria arbor,” Conrad said. “There’s all kinds of perennials — blackeyed Susans, lilies that start blooming in May all the way up to September.”

Conrad said a garden wedding there allows for intimacy, but can accommodate up to 100 guests, including the wedding party.

The site offers other options including the dock at Sylvan Lake, a pavilion and a small meeting room upstairs in the main building that has a kitchen and can hold 45 people.

For more details on the Porter site, call 854-3790.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Follow these tips to give a great

wedding toast

BY KASSIE BARROQUILLO kbarroquillo@kpcmedia.com

Wedding toasts come with expectations. The speech giver is expected to be memorable, sentimental, funny and captivate the audience. It sounds pretty impossible.

A speech teacher and current Lakeland School Corp. facilitator, Jason Schackow, helped create a list of “Do’s and Don’t’s” of a good wedding toast.

10. Don’t forget to thank the hosts.

When is the right time to thank the people who are footing the bill? It can be awkward, especially if there has been some kind of financial agreement. It may be easier for the best man or maid of honor to handle these pleasantries. According to Shackow, it can be as simple as “thanks for having us and thanks for putting this on.”

9. Do share an anecdote. Share a story that the audience will understand, but is still personal to the couple. Schackow recommended sharing how you met the couple or recapping some interesting stories. Be careful not to overload the speech with too many inside jokes. They will probably be lost on your audience and you will lose their attention.

8. Don’t forget to lead the toast.

“Remember to lead them in a small toast at the end, but don’t finish your drink because the audience will follow your lead,” Schackow said.

7. Do match the tone of the wedding. If it is a serious wedding, it may be best to go with a more sentimental and heart-warming toast. If it is a more relaxed wedding, you have the freedom to give a more humorous toast. “You don’t want to get there and think you are going to give the funniest speech in the world if it is a serious type of wedding,” Schackow said.

6. Don’t stare at one spot in the room.

Make eye contact with the guests and the couple. Start your speech by introducing yourself and making eye contact with the guests. While you are telling your story, then make eye contact with the couple. As you lead the toast, return eye contact to the guests.

5. Do practice. Write your speech out and read it while you are practicing, so you can hopefully give your speech without reading from a script at the wedding.

Practice in front of a few people. You want to make sure what you find funny makes other people laugh. “Personally, to me, that’s one of the worst things: when you think something is funny and no one laughs,” Schackow said.

4. Don’t drink too much. You will embarrass yourself and the couple. Giving toasts can be nerve-wracking, so practice beforehand to build your confidence.

3. Do keep it short and simple. The toast does not have to be a long-winded explanation of every great time you have had with this couple. Giving a short speech is better than sharing something embarrassing.

2. Don’t insult the bride and groom.

This is THE worst thing you could do as a toaster. Do not embarrass the bride and groom just to tell a story you think is funny. “Don’t take the focus off of the couple,” Shackow said.

1. Do make it sentimental. Be cheesy. It

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is OK. Share how much you care about the couple. There is a reason you were asked to be the maid of honor or the best man — share it!

And one more thing … make sure you remember the names of the bride and groom. Leaving those out or stumbling over their names would be disastrous.

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Private Gardens and Banquet Facility on the Prairie River

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 7

Weddings mean

formal wear like tuxedos

BY DENNIS NARTKER dnartker@kpcmedia.com AMY OBERLIN

Mitch Davis of Mitchell’s Clothing and Tuxedos in downtown Angola shows a couple of tuxedo options, noting that grays have been the most popular lately.

“There’s three shades of gray,” Davis said, adding that a medium gray has been the best seller this year.

Page 8

Tuxedos are sometimes referred to as penguin suits because when the formal black suit with white shirt is worn the wearer looks like a penguin.

Tuxedos are not for penquins. The men’s formal attire is usually worn for weddings, proms and other special occasions.

Tuxedos originated in the U.S. around 1888, and were named after Tuxedo Park, a Hudson Valley place for New York’s social elite at the time.

The formal suit is distinguished primarily by satin or grosgrain facings on the jacket’s lapels and buttons and a similar stripe along the trouser seams.

It’s typically black or midnight blue and commonly worn with a formal shirt, shoes and other accessories.

Tuxedos are expensive and since the formal wear may only be used a few times a year, most men rent rather than purchase.

Mitch Davis, owner of Mitchell’s Men’s Clothing & Tuxedos at 180 Public Square, Angola, has been fitting, renting and selling tuxedos for 22 years, and has been in the clothing business for 30 years. He knows the trends in style, fit and colors.

“Slim fit is in,” he said. “The two-button lapel, and traditional black remains popular.” Gray is also popular with light, medium and dark shades.

For weddings it’s usually the bride who tells the groom what she wants in the way of matching tuxedos, said Davis.

“Usually the guy will come in, say what he needs and that’s it. He’s not here to choose,” Davis says.

See TUXEDO page 9

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

TUXEDO From page 8

One trend he’s noticed lately is matching formal vests and shirts without the jackets, and flat front rather than pleated trousers.

Davis recommends those needing tuxedos for a wedding or prom visit a store to be fitted 10 days to two weeks before the occasion.

“We take the pant and shirt size, and height and weight to determine a jacket if they don’t know their sizes,” he said. Davis can also take the height and weight over the phone that will help him determine sizes of out-of-town wedding party members.

For proms, black is still popular and so is purple. White tuxedos are no longer popular for proms.

Davis’ store has all the accessories that go with formal wear including cumberbuns, cuff links, ties, socks, shoes and tie pins.

Formal wear should be kept in plastic and folded neatly if necessary prior to being worn. It’s not a good idea to wear the tuxedo to a bachelor party, he laughed.

Taylor Rental in Auburn, and Once Upon A Time in downtown Kendallville also rent tuxedos.

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Mitch Davis of Mitchell’s Clothing and Tuxedos in downtown Angola thumbs through a book he uses to help people pick the colors, styles and accessories for a wedding.

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Page 9

music

Variety is key in choosing for your reception

BY SUE CARPENTER scarpenter@kpcmedia.com

Just like Henry Hill advises in “The Music Man,” couples “gotta know the territory” when selecting entertainment for their wedding reception.

Creating a play list for your disc jockey can be daunting, so here are a few tips to break it down.

If your guests are a mix of several generations, family and work colleagues, then variety is key in making your reception a fun experience for all ages.

Couples should know their invited audience — do they enjoy group or line dancing? Perhaps they love a particular artist or classic rock style.

The website About.com suggests invited guests name a song that will be sure to “get them up and dancing” on their reply cards. This tactic ensures the music will appeal to a wide variety of guests.

Grandma and grandpa might be in their 80s and 90s, and are generally among the first to leave, so play favorites from the 1940s and 1950s at the outset of your reception.

Maybe your Aunt Sally has a thing for Wilson Picket’s “Mustang Sally” or Grandpa recalls dancing with his first girlfriend to “Do You Love Me” by the Contours at a sock hop in the ’50s. Be sure these favorites make the play list.

In order have a lively and fun reception, don’t wait for the cake to be served to begin dancing, the website suggests. One tip is that people will be more inclined to dance if others are already on the floor. Tell members of your bridal party it is their duty to dance and to ask others to dance with them, as well. These mismatched couples offer potential for priceless photos.

Lastly, be sure to give your DJ a list of songs you definitely do not want to

hear, a “do not play” list of sorts. Some tunes might bring back bad memories, others might just be songs that are hokey or just plain bad.

Song suggestions for your reception

Many websites offer lists of favorite songs for weddings. More recent songs seem to fall on and off the lists but the classics stay solid across several favorites lists.

Popular fast-dance songs — “Love Shack” by the B52s, “Billy Jean” by Michael Jackson, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, “Twist and Shout” by the Beatles, “Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison; “Something to Talk About”

by Bonnie Raitt, “What I Like About You” by the Romantics, “Shout” by the Isley Brothers and Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville” are among dozens of favorites.

Popular slow-dance songs — “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” by Aerosmith, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, “What a Wonderful World,” by Louis Armstrong, “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers, “At Last” by Etta James, “Imagine” by John Lennon, “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper, “From this Moment” by Shania Twain and “Unforgettable” by Natalie Cole with Nat King Cole.

Songs from the ’40s might include Frank Sinatra crooning “It Had to be You” and “The Way You Look Tonight.”

Some 1950s classics would feature “The Twist” by Chubby Checker, Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode,” Elvis favorites “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Teddy Bear,” and “Louie, Louie” by The Kingsmen.

Baby Boomers will respond to songs made popular by Mitch Ryder, Otis Redding, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles and dozens of Motown groups from the ’60s, among others.

Bands from the ’70s and ’80s include KC & the Sunshine Band, See MUSIC page 11

Page 10

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

STELLHORN PHOTO

Waiting for a cue

STELHORN PHOTO

Flowergirl Annalena Scamihorn, 3, right, of Terre Haute dances to music presented by Kyrous Music during the Kline wedding at Eddie Merlot’s on May 16.

MUSIC

From page 10

Lynyrd Skynard, Madonna, Kool & the Gang and Michael Jackson. The “Grease Megamix” is also a crowd favorite.

Novelty songs are still popular at weddings, including “Macarena,” “Chicken Dance,” “Cha-Cha Slide,” “Cupid Shuffle” and the “Electric Slide.” While some people might be tired of these songs, they are a sure way to get even the most reluctant of dancers on their feet.

The final tip for choosing songs for your reception, and the simplest, is to just have fun. It’s your night — enjoy every minute.

Groomsmen watch the beginning of the televised wedding in the bar area at Eddie Merlot’s as they wait for their cue to enter. Pictured are, in front from left, Shane Kline of St. Joe, groom Chad Kline of Kendallville, and Kevin Baker of Garrett. In back, Keith Lorenz of Avon and Justin Kline of Hamilton.

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Page 11

wedding was reality

Kline

television, really!

STELLHORN PHOTO

A cameraman for Indiana’s News Center directs the bride and groom to stop, so they grab a kiss following the wedding.

BY CHAD KLINE ckline@kpcmedia.com

You have an opportunity to have your wedding fully paid for; all you have to do is give up all control. Would you take the opportunity?

I was engaged on Dec. 24, 2013, to my now-wife Janessey. We immediately began planning our wedding for sometime in the fall of 2014. She wanted to get some more ideas and look for deals, so she planned to attend the Fort Wayne Bridal Spectacular at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. I knew that it would be in my best interest to attend with her.

We visited many booths during our visit to the shows, especially those with cupcakes or candy. She even signed up to win one of three wedding dresses being given away that day. As we started making our way out of the show, we began to walk by the Indiana’s News Center’s booth that was giving away a free wedding. Janessey turned to me and Page 12

asked if we should sign up. Jokingly I thought, “why not? What’s the chance we would actually win anyway?” I thought.

We had to fill out a form asking why we should win a free wedding. It wanted to know how we met, how I proposed and information about us. During the time of filling out the application, I couldn’t help but joke. Keep in mind, I had several cupcakes and may have been on a bit of a sugar high from the candy bar. But, we had fun. After the bridal show, we went on with planning our fall wedding.

On Jan. 21, 2014, Janessey received an email from Indiana’s News Center that we were chosen as one of the three finalist couples in the Let INsight Marry You Contest. We were asked to appear on the show the following Tuesday, Jan. 28, to make our plea to the audience as to why they should vote for and select us to be the winning couple.

See KLINE page 13

STELLHORN PHOTO

Wedding rings rest on the invitation for the wedding of Chad and Janessey Kline.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

J. MICHAEL PHOTOGRAPHY

The entire wedding party poses for a photo in the Jefferson Pointe Mall following the Kline wedding at Eddie Merlot’s in Fort Wayne. Pictured are, from left, Hope Koontz of Cromwell, Joy Hammer of Waterloo,

Juliana Debney, Krista Gaier of Avon, bride Janessey Kline of Kendallville, groom Chad Kline of Kendallville, Keith Lorenz of Avon, Kevin Baker of Garrett, Shane Kline of St. Joe, and Justin Kline of Hamilton.

KLINE From page 12

We were also told that the winning couple will have everything chosen for their wedding by the viewers and will have to follow their guidelines throughout the process. After some soul-searching and some advice from a previous winner, we decided it was an opportunity we just couldn’t pass up.

We would need to change our date, have a limited number at our wedding and even give up choosing exactly what we wanted. But, we knew we would end up with a beautiful wedding and memories to last a lifetime from the process.

The process

STELLHORN PHOTO

Chad and Janessey Kline grab their first selfie as husband and wife before dinner at Eddie Merlot’s in Fort Wayne on May 16.

Following our on-air interview, the voting started for the three couples and would continue for one week. We took to every form of social media that we had to help get the news out for people to vote. It really amazed me the outpouring of support we received. After what seemed like the longest week ever, we received the news that we were the couple chosen.

Very quickly after receiving word we won, we met at the TV station to get all of the details on the entire process.

We were given a long list of vendors that would be supplying the items for our wedding. We received a few extra

wedding gifts for being the winner. We even received two months of a personal trainer to get us fit for our wedding.

The voting began almost immediately.

Each week, the public would have the opportunity to vote on pretty much every aspect of our wedding; from the tuxes, the wedding dress, cake, flower arrangements, to even our honeymoon destination. We were able to choose our favorite three items for many of the options that were voted on. It’s not every day that you get to walk in to a store and pick out

whatever you want for your wedding.

The wedding

All of the items we had hoped for during the voting process we received and it all came together for the big day. On May 16, we were all set to be married on live television at approximately 12:25 p.m. in Eddie Merlot’s at

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

See KLINE page 14 Page 13

STELLHORN PHOTO

STELLHORN PHOTO

Janessey Kline, left, serves her new husband Chad during their meal at Eddie Merlot’s in Fort Wayne.

KLINE From page 13

Jefferson Pointe in Fort Wayne. They not only hosted our wedding, but also our rehearsal dinner the night before.

The flowers were all set up and the TV crew worked diligently to set up for their broadcast.

I chose not to see Janessey at all prior to the wedding and even stayed clear of the wedding dress selection process so I could be surprised. I wanted to experience that joy of seeing my bride for the first time in her dress as she walked down the aisle.

As each bridesmaid passed, I gave

Hamilton Life Center

Flowergirl Annalena Scamihorn, 3, center, of Terre Haute tries to put the flowers back in the basket as the ring-bearer Dayton Kline, 9, of St. Joe attempts to help her down the aisle during the Kline wedding on May 16.

them each a high five to keep the wedding lively. I knew if it got too serious, I might get emotional. I kept telling myself when I saw Janessey for the first time, I was not to cry, as I was on live television. Our officiant, Pastor James Archambeault of the New Life Tabernacle Church in Kendallville, also added humor to our service.

Following the wedding ceremony, they hurried us in to another room for some interviews. After the interviews, we were all done with the television portion of our adventure and could just sit back and enjoy the rest of our afternoon. It was all over before we knew it.

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Page 14

Conclusion

Would I do it again if the same opportunity had presented itself?

Absolutely!

We received a wedding and items that we would have most likely never spent our own money for. We met some amazing people in the process and have a story to tell.

We can’t thank enough all those who voted for us and supported us through this process, many people we have never met or don’t even know. We still to this day have people saying how wonderful it was to be a part of our experience. We are just glad that we could give others the opportunity to plan our wedding and say they had a hand in making our day perfect.

View videos of the entire process, including the wedding, of Chad and Janessey Kline from the Let INsight Marry You contest.

Scan the QR code to watch it on your tablet or smartphone.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

showers

Wedding

continue to break from tradition

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Rain showers on a wedding day may bring good luck, but they are seldom coveted. However, a different type of shower altogether is often highly anticipated and can help couples feel like they’re one in a million.

Wedding showers are gift-giving parties held for couples about to get married. The custom began in the 19th century and continues to the present day, primarily in North America and Australia. Guests traditionally “shower” the bride-to-be with all the necessities (and some fun extras) that she will need after she ties the knot. These gifts will help the soon-to-be-married couple establish a home together.

Bridal showers are steeped in tradition, but today’s bridal showers continue to veer off the beaten path.

Nowadays, bridal showers feature fun and games much like a party having nothing to do with a wedding. TheKnot. com, a website that aims to help couples plan their weddings and all the events leading up to the big day, identifies these key trends in modern bridal showers.

• Couples’ showers: Modern couples who like to be all-inclusive are now planning bridal showers that cater to mixed audiences. Dubbed a “couple shower,” these parties include female and male friends and relatives. Gifts are still the main focus of the event, but they’re varied and include guy-friendly items within the mix of household goods.

• Power showers: Many are familiar with the terms “man cave” and “bromance,” but few may know that there are now wedding showers geared entirely around the groom. Known as “power showers,” these events focus on the groom-to-be, who is showered with a bevy of gadgets and power tools that are certain to stock his future garage.

The parties are decidedly more testosterone-friendly and can include golf outings, poker nights or action movie flicks as possible themes.

• Destination/activity showers:

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Gifts are still important, but new trends in wedding showers have shifted the focus of these events.

Rather than having guests hang around a restaurant watching gift after gift get unwrapped, some bridal parties opt to throw an activity shower. These showers are focused around a particular activity.

For example, ladies may be treated to a day at the spa. Other ideas include horseback riding at a stable or a day at the ballpark. Because hosting an activity shower for dozens of people may get expensive, these types of showers may be reserved for only your closest friends and family members.

• Bride-involved showers: The idea of walking into a room and being surprised by friends and family members is

appealing to some brides-to-be but not everyone. Some brides prefer not to be surprised by a shower and actually would like to have a role in the planning of the party. However, this is delicate ground on which to tread, considering there may be differences over where the party is held and even the overall experience of the party. These type of showers should be discussed before any plans are made, and tasks should be delegated in accordance with those plans.

It is customary for a bridal shower to take place before a wedding. But new trends have emerged that are shaking up the way showers are planned and held.

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Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 15

How to get the METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

best deals

Many engaged couples have grandiose visions of their wedding days. While such visions typically come to fruition, they often do so only after heavy negotiations with the various vendors necessary to turn a dream wedding into a reality.

Negotiating prices with wedding vendors is something brides- and grooms-to-be may not anticipate, but the process of negotiation is paramount for couples who hope to plan their dream weddings without ruining their budgets. Though vendors vary considerably with regard to their willingness to negotiate, the following are a few tips for couples hoping to get the best deals possible on their wedding services. • Prepare, prepare, prepare. Couples who blindly enter negotiations with wedding venues and vendors are far less likely to get a good deal. When working with any wedding vendor, whether it’s a wedding venue representative, a local florist or a deejay, couples should know what the going rate for the vendor’s services are. Couples who find a venue they like should receive quotes from similar venues before negotiating a rate with the venue they most prefer.

Arming oneself with quotes from competitors increases the chances of receiving a more couple-friendly quote from the venue liked best, as that venue won’t want to lose business, especially to one of its chief competitors. In addition to pricing, estimates from other venues can vary based on what they include. Even if a favorite venue does not come down much on its original quote, they may be willing to add extra services, such as an open bar or an extra hour during the reception, free of charge to match a competitor’s offer. But they cannot match such offers if couples don’t first do their homework and solicit estimates from their

competitors. • Avoid making demands. Coming off as too demanding when negotiating prices with wedding vendors may not produce the results couples are hoping for. Much like couples don’t want to receive “take it or leave itâ€? offers, vendors don’t want to be given demands they have to meet in order to book a wedding. The right tone can go a long way with wedding vendors, who are typically more willing to work with couples who treat them nicely than couples who enter the negotiation process full of demands. Vendors often like it when couples know what they want, but couples are not doing themselves any favors when they express those desires as demands. • Don’t be afraid to ask for more.

Making demands and asking for more are not the same thing. When negotiating with wedding vendors, there’s no harm in asking for more. For example, the worst a deejay can do when asked to play an extra hour at no additional charge is deny that request.

Reception venues often have the most wiggle room, so don’t be afraid to ask for free coffee with dessert or valet parking.

Vendors are often open to suggestion and willing to honor requests, but it’s not their responsibility to make such offers. • Make sure all contracts are itemized, and read them thoroughly before signing on the dotted line. The negotiation process is often tedious, and contracts should reflect that. When hiring a wedding vendor, make sure the contract is itemized, spelling out in intimate detail just what was negotiated and how much each item costs. Couples may even notice items in the contract that can be removed, saving them a few dollars as a result. Be especially mindful of extra fees that can add up. For example, some venues try to make up for lower rates couples

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Page 16

on wedding services

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Couples who make the most of the negotiation process with wedding vendors often find it easier to make their dream weddings a reality.

negotiated by tacking on fees for cutting the cake or other minute details. These fees will be in the contract, and it’s up to couples to have them removed before they sign and the contract becomes official. • Remember there are two parties involved in the negotiation process. Vendors are not the only ones who might need to bend a little at the negotiating table. Couples might have to be flexible in order to make their dream weddings a reality. Some vendors charge considerably less during certain times of the year than they do during peak wedding season. If couples are finding it impossible to afford the wedding of their dreams during peak wedding season, they should consider tying the knot during a less popular time of year, when venues and vendors can offer them more competitive rates. Brides- and grooms-to-be cannot expect vendors to bend over backward for couples who aren’t willing to make any concessions themselves, so couples might have to make certain sacrifices at the negotiating table when planning their weddings.

Negotiation plays a significant role in wedding planning. Couples who take the process of negotiation seriously often find the best deals without having to make too many concessions.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ŠKPC Media Group Inc.

Makeup tips METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Few events are more photographed than weddings. Needless to say, wedding participants, from brides and grooms to the couple’s parents, hope to look their best for the celebrations. Women often find that well applied cosmetics can enhance their beauty and help ensure they are picture-perfect.

The key to wedding makeup is finding a balance between application that will come across well in person and will look good in photographs. Professional makeup artists may understand just how heavy a hand to use to apply makeup, but the novice do-it-yourselfer may need some instruction to master wedding day makeup.

Very often the key to wedding makeup is simplicity. Brides want their best features enhanced and have the makeup add to their beauty rather than outshine it. Brides want guests to notice their faces and gowns and not their makeup. Here are some other tips brides can employ in an effort to put their best faces forward.

• Begin preparations a few days prior to the wedding. If you will be enhancing your skin color with a spray-tan, do so at least two days prior to the wedding.

By the third day the color will set and appear more natural. The same idea applies to your brows. Tweezing, waxing and threading can create irritation and redness. Have your brows professionally shaped a few days before the wedding and then do a minor touch-up with your tweezer the night before. This allows your skin to recover and redness to dissipate.

• Start out with well-hydrated and moisturized skin. Apply a few layers of moisturizer, preferably one with an SPF if you will be spending time out in the sun. When the moisturizer is completely absorbed and dry, use a skin-priming product that will help keep your foundation locked into place.

• Match your foundation color to your natural skin color. When these colors don’t match, your face may look like it is a separate shade from your neck and decolletage. If you will be tanning, then find a shade that matches the tanned color. A foundation that has slightly yellow undertones will even out redness on the face and look better in photos.

Apply the foundation thoroughly with a sponge or brush and be sure to blend it

for brides and bridesmaids

well at your neckline. Set the foundation with a matte powder.

• Apply concealer to red spots or undereye circles after the foundation.

Aim for a creamy, emollient concealer for under the eyes. A peach color will contrast with the purple and blue tones of your eyelids. Putting on the concealer after the foundation means you will probably need less and won’t look like you’re caked with product.

• Use an eyebrow pencil or powder to fill in your brows. This is a must for your wedding day and can really help to frame your eyes. Use small, light flicks of the pencil rather than long strokes to make the color blend naturally. Use a brush to blend in further. Always go a shade or two lighter than your natural color.

Finish with a gel that will set the hairs into place.

• Complement your lips and eyes.

Many brides like to play up their eyes on their wedding days. If you are going for a dramatic eye, opt for a more neutral lip, and vice versa. Otherwise, you may look like you’re wearing stage makeup.

Neutral colors look best for weddings and will not appear dated in photos. Stick to subtle browns and taupes for universal flattery on most eye colors. Use a light hand to apply a neutral shade of light shadow all over the lid. Apply a medium brown to the crease of the eye and a darker brown to the very outer corner, and blend thoroughly. A very light shade of shadow can be used directly under the browline and toward the inside of the eye to make eyes appear wide and bright.

Stick with matte shades of eye shadow, with the exception of one pearlescent shade that is lightly dusted right in the center of the lid from the lashline to the crease. This will add just a touch of luster to catch the light and make eyes sparkle.

• Apply liner before mascara, and blend it with a brush. Push the liner into the lashline to make lashes appear thicker. Use mascara to lengthen lashes.

Place a makeup sponge behind your lashes when applying mascara so you don’t risk hitting your lids with the mascara wand. If you will be using false lashes, apply them now. Err on the shorter side for fake lashes, and cut them as needed to fit your eye. Lashes that are too long or full may appear cartoonish and can be uncomfortable to wear. Connect your lashes together with the false ones with another application of

mascara. Waterproof mascara will hold up through tears of joy.

• Be subtle with blush. Use subtle blush in a peach-pink color to achieve that blushing bride appearance. Smile and apply the blush only to the apples of your cheeks.

• Choose a long-lasting lip color that will hold up through kisses and smiles.

Lip stains work very well, as they provide that hint of color but wear well during the day.

Another helpful tip is to perform a practice run prior to the wedding, taking some photographs to see how the makeup looks in pictures. Cameras and flashes can wash out makeup, so sometimes you need to apply just a little bit more than usual for it to show up on film. Also, certain makeup products will reflect light more. Don’t forget to stock up on oil-blotting papers to touch up your face during the day.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

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Page 17

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

There are many factors to consider when planning a destination wedding.

Things to consider when mulling a

destination wedding

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

According to a study from XO Group Inc., creator of wedding websites TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com, 350,000 destination weddings take place annually. Such figures reflect a growing

trend of couples who want to tailor their weddings to their own personalities, even if that means tying the knot in exotic or unusual locales.

But as popular as destination weddings have become, couples who

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have had such weddings can attest that planning a destination wedding is not necessarily easier than planning a more traditional ceremony close to home.

Though destination weddings can make for memorable affairs, there are some factors couples must consider when mulling whether or not to have a destination wedding.

Guest list

The XO Group study found that destination weddings have an average of 86 guests. When sitting down to organize their guest lists, many couples realize they have well over 100 guests on their lists. Such couples may find a destination wedding especially difficult to pull off, as resorts may or may not be able to accommodate such a substantial number of guests. In addition, couples who hope to invite children to their weddings might want to reconsider a destination affair, as those youngsters’ parents will have to foot the bill for additional airfare and accommodations and, depending on when the wedding takes place, pull the kids out of school for an extended period of time. Couples with smaller guest lists might find a destination wedding much more manageable than those whose guest lists crack triple digits.

Another thing to consider is that the larger the guest list, the more likely many of those guests will not be able to afford to attend or get enough time off

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

See DESTINATION page 19

DESTINATION From page 18

from work to make it to a destination wedding. Couples who want to ensure all of their loved ones can be there with them on their big days might be better off avoiding destination weddings.

possibility. Before choosing a locale for a destination wedding, research flights, making sure that affordable flights are available within spitting distance of loved ones’ homes and that they won’t have to suffer through multiple connecting flights when traveling to and from the wedding.

Weather

Accessibility

Accessibility is a common concern for couples considering destination weddings. Destination weddings typically ask guests to travel far to attend the ceremony and reception, but there are ways to make that travel less of an ordeal. When choosing a location for their destination weddings, couples should consider the cost and convenience of travel. Remote islands are not very accessible, and as a result guests will likely have to pay a pretty penny for their flights and lodging. In addition, the more remote a destination wedding locale is, the less convenient getting there figures to be. Nonstop flights likely won’t be a

Weather is another factor couples must consider before choosing to have a destination wedding. The XO Group study found that 30 percent of American couples who have destination weddings choose to tie the knot outside of the continental United States. That’s a distinct disadvantage for couples who likely are not very familiar with weather patterns overseas. Couples who choose outdoor weddings close to home are often familiar enough with local weather patterns to choose a wedding date that likely won’t be interrupted by harsh weather. But choosing an overseas or distant locale erases that comfort level, and couples may find themselves worrying about storms or other inclement

weather conditions as their wedding days draw nearer. Before choosing a locale for their destination weddings, couples should thoroughly research each potential destination’s weather patterns. Brides, grooms and guests alike don’t want to do all of that traveling only to end up indoors because it just so happens to be tropical storm season.

Competition

As destination weddings have grown in popularity, the competition for idyllic locales and top-notch venues has increased. That competition is great for venue owners’ bottom lines, but it might not be so great for couples looking to keep their wedding costs down.

Costs might be considerably less in the off-season, but that’s also when storms and inclement weather tend to take hold, Booking a venue early can help couples mitigate some of the costs of a destination wedding, but the growing popularity of destination weddings might make them out of reach for couples working on tight budgets.

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260-833-2537 Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 19

energized

How to stay throughout your wedding day METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

A couple’s wedding day is the culmination of months and months of planning. For most, it is one of the most memorable, magical days of their lives, filled with fond moments of time spent with close friends and family.

As enjoyable as a wedding can be, most brides and grooms who have already tied the knot can attest that a wedding is a long, often tiring day. It is very easy for energy levels to wane. To ensure you have enough energy to last through to the final good-bye of the evening, follow these suggestions to remain energized.

• Recognize your wedding day is a very long day. It’s possible to rise quite early in the morning to begin prepping with makeup, hair styles, wardrobe and more. If the party is an evening reception, it could last until the wee hours of the morning. You may find yourself up for nearly 24 hours, when the cameras will be flashing and the video rolling throughout.

Naturally, you’ll want to look your best

throughout.

• Get a good night’s sleep the night before. Get to bed early the night before so you will get ample sleep and look rested. It is understandable that nerves and excitement may get the best of you and make it difficult to fall asleep. If you often grow anxious and struggle to fall asleep before big events, talk to your doctor prior to the wedding to ask if you can be prescribed a one-time-only sleeping pill that will ensure you get to sleep promptly. Do not take this medication with alcohol, and be sure to take it only if you can get a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Otherwise you may experience medicine hangover.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast. At breakfast on the morning of your wedding, consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein. The carbs will provide the initial burst of energy you need to get going, and the protein will keep you feeling full. A combination of whole wheat toast, fresh fruit and Greek

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yogurt makes for a filling start to the day.

• Stay hydrated. Although drinking a lot of water can result in more frequent trips to the bathroom — which can be cumbersome for brides wearing their gowns — it is essential to stay hydrated.

Dehydration can result in headaches, weakness and dizziness and may make you feel cranky. Be sure to consume water throughout the day.

• Pack some snacks. The time between breakfast and the cocktail hour of a wedding may be significant. In your wedding “survival” kit, be sure to pack some easy snacks to eat. Trail mix can be nibbled for a boost of energy, and a banana can take the edge off of hunger pangs. Avoid anything messy that can drip onto clothing or get stuck in your teeth. Arrange to have snacks stowed in the limousine or another mode of transportation so that you can refuel on the way to the ceremony or in transit to the reception.

• Don’t overdo it with caffeine. It may be tempting to lean on an energy drink or a super-size cup of coffee to give you the boost you need. But caffeine is only a temporary fix. After the effects of the caffeine wear off, you could find yourself more tired than before and crash at an inopportune time during the day. Instead, a brisk walk outdoors may recharge your batteries. Afterward, time spent on the dance floor enjoying the reception will likely stimulate some adrenaline to keep you going.

• Eat dinner. When family is beckoning and the photographer needs to get yet another pose, it is easy to skip dinner. Be firm with your decision to enjoy your meal. After all, you paid for it and it should not go to waste. Besides, sitting down to dinner enables you to rest and absorb the atmosphere of the wedding.

• Continue to drink plenty of water throughout the night. Alcoholic beverages may be flowing, but too many spirits can compromise your energy levels. Be sure to balance the booze with hydrating fluids, such as water or juice.

Weddings take up the entire day, and it can be easy to succumb to a lack of energy as the day progresses. But by heeding a few tips, it’s possible to remain in top form throughout the entire wedding day.

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

unique cake flavor combinations

Explore

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

A wedding cake is the piece de resistance of the wedding ceremony.

Guests anxiously await the unveiling of the cake near the end of the festivities.

Modern cakes are showpieces grander in scale than in years past. As bakers and confectioners hone their skills with fondant, buttercream and gum paste even further, the results are often impressive, awe-inspiring cake designs.

While the look of a wedding cake is certainly important, cakes should not only look good, but taste good as well.

Vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream frosting was once the gold standard.

But today’s couples are being more adventurous with their wedding cakes and winning rave reviews from guests along the way.

The vast scope of wedding cake flavor choices available to brides and grooms is astonishing. Options may range from the traditional to something adventurous and daring.

Keeping in mind that couples will need to please the masses, finding a compromise between plain vanilla and a mocha-chile-coconut surprise is essential. Otherwise, they risk an unpopular flavor and a lot of wasted, expensive cake.

Some couples shy away from more adventurous cakes because they fear something chocolately or not white in color will not be well suited to a wedding reception. Such couples should keep in mind that any flavor of cake can be hidden beneath layers of pearly white fondant or royal icing.

Therefore, the sky is the limit with regard to flavor combinations.

Those who might want to veer from tradition can consider these clever cake combinations.

• Lemon cake with vanilla buttercream: Lemons are tart, juicy and refreshing, helping to cleanse the palate after a rich meal. Lemon cake, with its summery feel, is tailor-made for summer weddings. The flavor is popular enough to appeal to many, but just a little different to add an unexpected zip of flavor.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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See CAKE page 22 Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Debit Cards

Page 21

CAKE From page 21

STELLHORN PHOTO

A non-traditional cake is what Chad and Janessey Kline had hoped for voters to choose for their wedding.

This cake was by Courtney’s Bakery in Fort Wayne.

• Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache and mocha filling: True chocoholics will be hard-pressed to resist such a decadent flavor profile.

Chocolate can be sweet and satisfying and a welcome change from the vanilla cakes commonly served. For traditionalists, the cake can be covered with a white chocolate ganache. Or couples can ask that the cake be adorned with white sugar roses for an eye-appealing contrast. Chocolate cakes covered with autumn-hued flowers go over well at fall weddings.

• Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting: Red velvet cake was once a regionally specific staple, but now has grown steadily in popularity across the country. Red velvet has quickly become the new classic, as its vibrant red coloring offers a shock of something different, while the flavor is mild for those who are not comfortable taking risks. The richness and creaminess of cream cheese is irresistible.

• White cake with chocolate mousse: Couples who want a bit of chocolate but do not want to be overwhelmed can select a white cake that is filled with light and rich chocolate mousse. It’s the perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate for guests who enjoy both.

• Variety tiers: Those who cannot settle on just one flavor can have different flavors on each tier of their cakes. This gives guests some flavorful variety and enables them to pick their favorite flavor combination.

Brides- and grooms-to-be who have specific flavors in mind can ask their bakers to include two cupcakes with the wedding cake. Then the couple can enjoy their own mini cakes while the rest of the guests enjoy a more classic cake. In addition, an assortment of cupcakes in lieu of one cake can give guests the opportunity to sample several different flavors.

Cakes are a part of many special events, but few cakes are fawned over as much as wedding cakes. Couples can spice things up by choosing a nontraditional flavor combination.

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Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Why you need a wedding planner METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Planning a wedding is often both fun and frustrating. While planning a party for friends and family can be fun, couples can easily be overwhelmed by the nuts and bolts of planning such a significant event.

Interviewing vendors, negotiating prices and arranging for accommodations are just a few of the many tasks couples must complete before they can finally relax and tie the knot. The sheer volume of decisions couples must make when planning a wedding is one reason many men and women seek the services of wedding planners. The following are some additional reasons couples might want to ease their burdens and hire wedding planners as they get ready for their big day. • Planners are familiar with vendors.

Wedding planners work for couples, and while planners often recommend certain vendors, they typically work with whomever the couples ultimately choose. As a result, veteran wedding planners tend to have worked with every florist, caterer, deejay, and venue in their areas. That makes them an invaluable resource to couples who don’t know where to begin as they start planning their weddings. Wedding planners can save couples time by suggesting couples

avoid certain vendors, whether it’s because those vendors have poor service records or they simply don’t fit into a couple’s budget. Wedding planners also can make recommendations based on what couples want. For example, wedding planners may know which deejays are best for more raucous receptions and which ones are best suited for couples who want a more formal affair. • Planners know pricing. Wedding vendors often leave room for negotiation when making proposals to prospective customers. Seasoned wedding planners will know the going rates for various services, helping couples get the best rates possible and doing so with minimal effort. In addition, planners might be able to negotiate directly with vendors they have worked with in the past, removing one of the biggest stressors of planning a wedding, the negotiation process, from the list of responsibilities couples must handle before tying the knot. • Planners remember the small details you’re likely to forget. Many couples who have large weddings are getting married for the first time, and there are bound to be details they overlook along the way.

Seasoned wedding planners are far less

likely to overlook even the tiniest of details, helping couples rest easy knowing that no stone has gone unturned as their big days draw closer and closer. • Planners keep you on course. The longer a couple’s engagement, the easier it becomes to put certain decisions off. But as the wedding day draws nearer, that procrastination often turns into panic, as couples realize their options dwindling and decisions need to be made as soon as possible.

Wedding planners hired shortly after a couple gets engaged will be there to ensure couples stay on track, making decisions as needed and not putting important decisions off until the last minute. • Planners make the wedding day less stressful. Despite all the planning and preparation that goes into their weddings, couples often find their wedding days to be whirlwind days that seem to fly by. Small problems on a couple’s wedding day have a tendency to be magnified, but a seasoned wedding planner can address such issues before the couple is even aware they existed.

This makes the day much more enjoyable for the bride and groom and their investment in a wedding planner that much more worthwhile.

Taylor Rental Party Plus in Auburn, just 15 minutes from Fort Wayne, has been making wedding dreams come true for over 36 years. For experience and style, choose Taylor Rental Party Plus in Auburn for all your custom wedding day planning and essentials. :[ 9K > (\I\YU 05 1\Z[ ^LZ[ VM 0 PU (\I\YU

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^^^ [H`SVYYLU[HS\ZH JVT WHY[`'[H`SVYYLU[HS\ZH JVT Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ŠKPC Media Group Inc.

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BOOK YOUR RECEPTIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS FOR 2015 A unique event center surrounded by a beautiful apple orchard, tranquil countryside and romantic courtyard.

Enough space for 300 of your friends and family.

Sylvan Cellars Nathan & Rachel Schermerhorn

260-760-1421

www.sylvancellars.com 2725 E. Northport Rd., Rome City, IN Page 24

Fall Bridal Guide • August 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.