Her Impressions Bridal Edition September 2016

Her

impressions

Local • Vibrant • You!

&

WEDDING VOW DO’S DON’TS Hitting the

RIGHT NOTES for perfect entertainment

?

Should we stay or should we go Is a destination wedding right for you?

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cutting the cake The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely.

Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour.

Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 3

Her Impressions is published three times a year by the Leader-Telegram.

Copyright 2016 Eau Claire Press Company.

All rights reserved.

Next issue: January 2017 See it online @ leadertelegram.com/magazines Cover art from 123rf.com

Editor – Elizabeth Dohms – elizabeth.dohms@ecpc.com Magazine Coordinator – Catie Carlson-Prueher – catie.carlson@ecpc.com – 715-830-5823 Design & Layout – Angela Rediess

4 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

contents I Do: p.8 & Local • Vibrant • You!

Wedding vow

do’s don’ts 10 Dress Silhouettes

p.

?

we stay 14 Should or should we go

p.

20

p.

WEDDING TECH

There’s an app for that

26

p.

Hitting the Right Notes Pick the right entertainment for your big day with a well-researched decision

30 Bridal Fair Vendors

p.

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 5

The perfect dress is on the wish list of many a bride-to-be, but no bridal ensemble is truly complete until the bride chooses her veil.

Veils have been worn by brides for centuries. Veils can be traced back to the Middle East, where they helped protect against the weather while also preserving the bride’s modesty. In Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, veils were used as protection against evil spirits.

According to popular wedding website The Knot.com, until Vatican II, all Catholic women were required to have their heads covered in church, including during their wedding ceremonies. Veils were worn for this purpose, but also symbolized trust in the groom and his love and companionship. Some Christians see the veil as a visual representation of submission to the Church and to God. Many brides think of the veil simply as a beautiful accompaniment to their bridal gown.

Veils come in various lengths and tend to add glamour to any bride’s look.

6 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

lifting

the veil

Blusher:

Fingertip:

Blushers cover the face, though some extend only to mid-cheek.

Extend down 38 to 42 inches, brushing against the fingertips.

Flyaway:

Waltz/Knee:

Flyaways cover just the back of the head. Shorter veils may work better on petite women.

Shoulder:

Shoulder veils are about 20 inches in length and will hit at the shoulders or just below.

Waist:

Waist-length veils cascade down to the middle of the waist.

For a dramatic look, many brides may opt for waltz-length veils, which fall to the back of the knees.

Chapel/Floor: Veils that extend to the floor may be referred to as ‘chapel’ or ‘floorlength’ veils. Such veils cascade slightly behind the bride.

style:

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 7

If you want to extend your personal wedding touch to the ceremony and don’t mind public speaking, writing your own wedding vows can further enrich your day and make it even more memorable.

While sincerity and creativity should be allowed free rein, adhering to a few wedding vow do’s and don’ts can help make your ceremony shine.

&

I Do: do’s

Wedding vow

don’ts

By Eva Apelqvist

8 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

&

Dos

Don’ts

Erika Bahnson and Phillip Amundson of Eau Claire are getting married in front of a judge in Eau Claire on Sept.

24, and have chosen to write their own vows.

Bahnson didn’t feel that any of the writings she had seen fully expressed what the couple wanted to say.

“We wanted it to be unique and personal,” she said. “I feel that’s the whole purpose of the ceremony — expressing why we are getting married and the love we have for each other.”

DO speak from the heart.

According to Sean Carlson — deejay, emcee, wedding planner and officiant, musician and owner of Carlson Entertainment in Eau Claire — it’s easy to get a little lazy.

“Sometimes people get generic. They might say things they’ve seen in a movie,” he said.

To avoid being too generic, Carlson suggests people think about who they are as a couple and what they enjoy doing together.

“Try to bring out the ‘you,’” he said.

“And think about why you truly love

this person more than anything else in the world. Then tell them.”

Rev. Sandra McKinney of the Eau Claire Unity Christ Center also tells couples to get personal.

“I encourage them to think back to when they first met,” she said.

“If they can tell a story about their relationship, it adds so much to the ceremony.”

Similar to McKinney, Bahnson believes humor is important and that it reflects who she and Amundson are as a couple.

“I will try to keep things light and funny,” Bahnson said. “That’s our personality.”

DON’T share your vows with each other before the actual wedding ceremony.

McKinney said football teams often appear in vows. And this is a good thing, she said. It shows something about who this couple is.

DON’T embarrass your partner…

at least not too much.

Carlson said that while bringing up a dirty secret that will anger your partner is a bad idea, a little bit of embarrassment can add to the uniqueness of the ceremony.

McKinney and Carlson both said this helps make the moment more authentic.

“When your partner hears those vows spoken for the first time at the wedding, it creates an incredible moment,” Carlson said.

DO have your vows written down and available during the ceremony.

DO add humor.

Even if you have them memorized, having them written down will make you less nervous.

Not only does it make it fun for people who listen, it can release tension and help couples get over their nervousness of speaking in front of a crowd.

Since the bride doesn’t have a place to keep her notes during the ceremony, McKinney said she brings them up front for the bride, hands her the piece of paper when she needs it Cont. on pg 11

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 9

dress silhouettes distinctly original

Few wardrobe decisions are scrutinized as much as a brideto-be’s choice of wedding gown. Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future bride’s figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides.

Brides often spend months, if not years, shopping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what flatters certain body types. After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married. Here is a look at some of the common types of gown silhouettes and why choosing this shape might be right for you.

Cont. on pg 12

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10 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

TRIANGLE/PEAR INVERTED TRIANGLE

Use the symbols to find out which silhouette is best for your body type RECTANGLE/BANANA

There are challenges, of course, in doing things your own way.

One of them is staying fresh.

Others might give Bahnson ideas for her vows that resonate with her, but she wants to make sure those feelings are told in her own words.

Bahnson is a lawyer and makes arguments verbally on a daily basis.

Even still, she considers herself more of a doer and has an easier time showing her love than actually finding words to express it.

DO end your vows with the traditional exchange of “Do you take this man/woman …”

Cont. from pg 9

and then takes it back when the vows have been delivered.

DON’T make the vows too long.

Carlson encourages couples to keep their vows to under a minute.

“Get to the main point and move on,” he said. “Don’t tell the same story in four different ways.”

DO practice saying your vows out loud to yourself.

Carlson encourages couples to record themselves practicing on video and watch it. An alternative is to use a voice recorder. If you have difficulties critiquing yourself, give the recording to friends and have them give you feedback.

Another challenge is nerves. Bahnson and Amundson will have their vows written down, and they will not share them with each other ahead of the ceremony.

Amundson thinks he’ll get emotional and is nervous about delivering his vows.

That’s a good thing, Bahnson said.

At times during her wedding preparations, Bahnson said she has been overwhelmed by information, books and personal advice. It’s all good to take in ideas, she said, but it can get to be too much.

“In the end,” Bahnson said, “you really have to do what works for you, which is something that goes for the entire wedding.”

DON’T feel bad if writing your own

vows is not your thing.

It certainly doesn’t make you less of a person to use the church vows, Carlson said. If you’re not comfortable writing your own vows, it’s better not to, he said.

There are no exact rules anymore, McKinney said, noting that this type of ending adds a feeling of legitimacy to the ceremony.

Apelqvist is a freelance writer based in Spooner.

For more information:

Find Sean Carlson at carlson-entertainment.com and Rev. Sandra McKinney at unityeauclaire.org

You Dream it...

We Design it...

McKinney always encourages those able to do so to write their own vows, but she recognizes it’s not for everybody.

Fewer than half the people she counsels will actually consider writing and delivering their own vows, she said. If it makes you too nervous, it will add stress to your day.

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 11

dress silhouettes Cont. from pg 10

A-line A forgiving silhouette

for many body types is the A-line gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase “A.” When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic and sensible.

Modified A-line A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.

Trumpet

Women who prefer something more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette.

This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.

Mermaid

A bit more fitted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.

Tea length

Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.

Mini

Skirt falls above the knee Cont. on pg 18

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12 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

Gentlemen getting ready to tie the knot will have to make certain wardrobe choices so they look their best on their big day. Although many grooms-to-be rent tuxedos on their wedding day, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a tuxedo.

Tuxedos are the ultimate formal wear for men. Worn at formal gatherings like proms, weddings and lavish parties, tuxedos have undergone several style changes over the years. Men interested in looking polished will find no option makes that impression more convincingly than the right tuxedo.

Cont. on pg 22

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 13

Her

OUTINGS

Destination weddings proving popular alternative to traditional unions

?

Should we stay or should we go

By Debra Hagen-Foley

14 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

7

out of

10

destination weddings are held in the continental U.S.

Lisa O’Keefe started planning for a traditional wedding.

With a guest list of about 200 people, she toured venues such as churches and dance halls and began preparing a budget before turning her mind towards something simpler.

“I got so overwhelmed with the details and expenses and I thought, “ ‘Who am I doing this for?’ ” said O’Keefe from Eau Claire.

Her desire wasn’t for decorations or fancy champagne glasses or boutonnieres.

“I just want to be married, no fuss,” she said. “So I put down all the wedding planning lists, looked at my fiance and said, ‘How do you feel about Vegas?’ And off we went.”

Cont. on pg 16

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 15

“

Destination weddings can be less stressful with fewer decisions to make in advance,

”

- Heidi DesJarlis

Cont. from pg 15

A popular choice among couples, destination weddings now comprise 25 percent of all weddings, accounting for 350,000 annually, according to grouptravel.org.

Seven out of every 10 destination weddings are held in the continental U.S. – Las Vegas is the most common location boasting more than 100,000 unions each year.

Jamaica leads as the most common location beyond U.S.’s borders for destination weddings, grouptravel.org stated, with other popular locations including Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Ninety percent of couples said weather was critical when deciding on a wedding location, with most opting for sunny skies and tropical temperatures.

Pick a planner You don’t need to find a contact in Las Vegas to begin planning your destination wedding.

Plenty of local agencies can offer assistance selecting a destination or resort, reserving the wedding and booking travel for everyone, including Higgins Travel in Eau Claire.

Heidi DesJarlis, a romance travel specialist for Higgins Travel, has noticed a steady increase since 2010 of people requesting destination wedding packages.

“A lot of of my business is referral-based,” she said.

“Brides who were previously invited to a destination Cont. on pg 19

16 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

planning made easy

sponsored content

HONEYMOON

Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc. Sponsored by Higgins Travel Leaders.

Weddings are one-of-a-kind occasions. Weddings also tend to be stressful, even for the most laid-back people. But a honeymoon gives the couple a chance to enjoy uninterrupted moments together and serves as a way to recuperate from the months and sometimes years of wedding planning.

Honeymoons are a beloved wedding tradition, and some couples even combine their weddings and honeymoons by opting for a destination wedding. Because the honeymoon should be a way to unwind on a dream vacation, booking the honeymoon and setting an itinerary should not add to the pressure of planning, and the following tips should make planning a honeymoon a snap.

Research your destination.

Learn all you can about a destination before booking your honeymoon.

Study the weather for the time of year you will be on your honeymoon, and learn about currency exchange, local rules and regulations and other pertinent factors to determine the best places to visit. You do not want to be met with surprises that might compromise your trip upon arriving to your honeymoon destination.

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Book well in advance.

The sooner you choose your destination, the faster you can begin the process of applying for passports, visas or other necessary documents.

Booking early also guarantees you better seats on the flight and the ability to negotiate pricing.

Give yourself a full day between the wedding and embarking on your trip.

Scenes of couples being whisked away to the airport right after the reception dwindles down are commonplace. But that doesn’t mean you need to leave right after the final dance. Allow some breathing room to pack, deposit wedding gifts, return tuxedoes, and tackle any other post-wedding tasks. Save the romantic “first night” as a couple for the honeymoon and enjoy a well-deserved night’s sleep.

Purchase travel insurance.

One way to alleviate the stress of planning a wedding is to ensure your honeymoon investment is protected in the event of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Travel insurance is a safety net that can come in handy. Speak with a travel agent or insurance agent about how to secure travel insurance for the honeymoon.

Pack light.

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Don’t burden yourself down with a lot of belongings. Chances are you’ll pick up new things and mementos on the trip, and packing light makes traversing airports that much easier.

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 17

dress silhouettes Cont. from pg 12

Ballgown A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses. With a fitted bodice and full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt is typically poofed-up by crinoline and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figures.

Sheath

Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape.

Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option.

Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success.

Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is a good idea to try on a number of different silhouettes to find the one that is most flattering. Bridal salon employees are usually well-versed in matching body type to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting a dress.

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“Destination weddings can be less stressful with fewer decisions to make in advance,” O’Keefe said. “The cost of a seven-day travel package usually costs less than the average traditional wedding. Plus, the wedding itself turns into a weeklong extended party with friends and family.”

Cost will increase with the size of the party, and an average destination wedding costs about $20,000, according to grouptravel.org. That amount ticks up as honeymoon and travel expenses are added.

That can be costly if the couple chooses to pay for the wedding themselves, something grouptravel.org estimates 60 percent of brides and grooms do.

Save money by looking into group discounts at local hotels, which could end up totaling about 25 percent off.

But for O’Keefe, who planned her own wedding, the cost might be worth it.

No family member could attend her wedding on short notice, though they were able to watch the ceremony online.

Still O’Keefe, who is no longer married, said she would want her family present if she is again to get married far from home.

“I’ve gotten more traditional in my old age,” she said.

Hagen-Foley, a Chippewa Falls native, is a freelance writer and the dean of academic excellence and institutional effectiveness at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids.

Outdoor ceremonies have grown in popularity, and there’s no question that Mother Nature can provide the most beautiful backdrop for any event! As a popular lakeside wedding venue in the Eau Claire area, we’ve learned a thing or two about the art of planning an outdoor celebration. Avoid some surprises on your big day and consider these helpful tips to ensure that your ceremony lives up to your expectations:

sponsored content

Her clients echo sentiments expressed by O’Keefe that popularity of this wedding style can be attributed to its simplicity and cost.

6

wedding decided to do the same thing when it was their turn.”

Secrets to Planning Your Outdoor Ceremony

Cont. from pg 16

1 2 3 4 5 6

Power Up. An outdoor ceremony will likely require sound equipment, if you want everyone to hear your beautiful vows. You may have musicians that require power for their keyboard. Maybe a DJ is supplying you with ceremony music.

Whatever the case, be sure there is plenty of power available. Lake Wissota Golf & Events offers plenty of power for outdoor events, with electrical outlets located around the entire exterior of the facility.

Plan For Enough Seating. While this may seem obvious, keep in mind that your outdoor location may not come with seating. This adds extra cost to your already growing budget, so be sure to have a plan to seat your guests. At Lake Wissota Golf & Events, we provide all of our ceremonies with up to 150 seats, with additional seating available at a minimal cost.

Keep All of Your Guests In Mind. That field may be beautiful and that spot on the hill may be the best view you’ve ever seen, but have you taken into account the fact that the terrain may be rocky, uneven, steep, or just plain difficult to maneuver? Be mindful of how accessible your location is. With sidewalk ramps and golf carts, our facility and grounds are easily accessible for anyone requiring assistance.

Don’t Start Off On The Wrong Foot. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many overlook this seemingly small detail – brides and bridal parties particularly. Know the terrain on which you’ll be walking! Heels are not always the best option. Heels sink into soft ground and can send you flying if you’ll be walking on uneven or rocky surfaces. At Lake Wissota Golf, you have the benefit of a lake-side or lush, green backdrop, yet you and your guests are provided with a solid surface to stand and walk on. The perfect option for anything from flip-flops to sky-high heels!

Have A Back-up Plan. This is without a doubt the single most important secret to planning an outdoor event of any kind! Mother Nature doesn’t always like to cooperate, and since you have no control over her behavior, it’s imperative to have a back-up option secured. At Lake Wissota Golf & Events, there’s no need to worry about changes in the weather – our lakeside ceremonies can quickly be moved indoors to ensure that your guests (and you) are warm and dry!

Let Nature Take Its Course. When planning an outdoor

wedding, many brides-to-be fail to recognize that less is always more. Nature is what sets the scene for guests. The decorative details should enhance, rather than detract from this natural scenery. Keep it simple, personalized and classy. From the landscape of our pristine golf course to the surrounding backdrop of the lake, we pride ourselves on the beauty that our setting offers for an outdoor ceremony and wedding photos alike.

More information

For more information about destination weddings, contact Heidi DesJarlis at 715-834-2686 or email heidi@higginstravel.com.

Whether you would like an indoor or an outdoor ceremony, Lake Wissota has a picturesque scene for you and your guests. Anywhere on our beautiful grounds or inside our clubhouse offers an amazing setting for you to recite your vows and have the wedding you always dreamed of. We have a talented catering service and a staff that is well-practiced in putting together stellar weddings and events. We will take care of everything else, so you can enjoy your special day!

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 19

There’s an app for that

By Lauren French

Wedding planners and couples use apps to plan for the big day Just a decade ago, a bride-to-be’s home office might have been the victim of a tornado of frantic plans in the months leading up to the big day.

Harried notes about flower arrangements, color combinations and seating charts, scattered to-do lists and catering menus likely dotted the floor.

And the results of that careful planning would be captured on the ceremonious day by a wedding photographer tasked with documenting it all.

Modern weddings have taken a digital turn, and couples are increasingly looking to mobile apps and websites to help them prepare.

Cont. on pg 23

20 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 21

tuxedo purchasing pointers

Men frequently called upon to attend formal events may find purchasing a tuxedo is a wise investment. There are several advantages to owning a tux rather than renting one time and again.

Owning a tuxedo gives the opportunity to wear a tux that is custom-made and tailored just for you, increasing comfort and making you look better as well. Men who buy their own tuxedos also can choose the style, fabric, color, buttons, accessories, and type of lapels on the jacket. A tuxedo store may have more styles available for sale than for rent. Men worried about purchasing a tuxedo only to see their waistlines increase or decrease should keep in mind that many tuxedo shops offer free tailoring.

When purchasing a tuxedo, men should choose classic styles and colors so they can enjoy the tux for years to come. Opt for a slim-fitting white shirt underneath that won’t billow out when jackets are removed. Men who want to break from tradition can opt for a shirt that is a pale blue or light gray to wear under the jacket. This is still an understated look, but one with a hint of creativity.

TUXEDO HISTORY

Cont. from pg 13

The origins of the modern tuxedo remains a topic for debate, but one of the more widely known tales of the tuxedo’s beginning traces this classic look to a wealthy tobacco magnate of the 19th century.

Pierre Lorillard lived with his family in a residential colony called Tuxedo Park, which was roughly 40 miles northwest of New York City. The Lorillards were popular in social circles, and Pierre helped establish the area as a prime hunting and fishing destination. Lorillard also developed a social organization called the Tuxedo Club, which regularly hosted balls. At the time, men wore dinner jackets with long tails to formal events. However, Lorillard wanted something different and modern, and he commissioned a tailless black jacket to wear to the Tuxedo Club’s Autumn Ball.

Lorillard got cold feet in time for the ball and did not wear the shorter jacket.

However, his son, Griswold, did wear the short jacket and received much praise.

Soon the style was copied and worn in various social circles across the country.

The “tuxedo” was born, and soon became a timeless classic.

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A classic, black bow tie is an ideal match when purchasing a more classic tuxedo. The bow tie is back in a big way, and men who want to spice things up can purchase more traditional neckties for those occasions when they don’t want to wear bow ties.

Tuxedos come with different lapel styles, and it’s important to know the differences. A popular style is the notch lapel, wherein a triangular indentation is cut where the lapel joins the collar. This lapel mimics the shape of a classic suit. A peak lapel is the quintessential classic, featuring a broad, V-shaped lapel that points up and out just below the collar line. A shawl lapel is a smooth, rounded edge lapel. The shawl lapel reached the height of its popularity in the 1950s, but it can still look good today.

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Cont. from pg 20

Mobile apps and social media are constantly evolving — what follows is a sample of what local event planners and couples are using to pull their weddings together.

Popularity of social media Rebecca Staats, director of sales at the Lismore Hotel in downtown Eau Claire, is no stranger to planning large events. Since the new hotel’s opening in May, it has been the venue for six weddings.

Before joining the hotel staff, Staats worked at establishments in the Twin Cities and Chicago, where she coordinated and observed numerous weddings.

“There is always some type of social media aspect, whether it’s Facebook or Instagram,” Staats said of weddings she’s observed. “Brides are really incorporating hashtags so they are able to see content (from their wedding).”

Staats said hashtags are useful ways to see everything in one place. On social media sites, hashtags are words or phrases preceded with a pound sign used to aggregate posts on a certain topic.

Cont. on pg 24

Article provided by Eric’s Diamonds.

The days of walking into a jewelry store and picking out the same ring everyone one else has can now be over. The days of being limited to only the rings that you are being shown by the sales clerk can be over too. Welcome to the wonderful world of CAD design, 3D printing and an endless selection of design options.

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Current advancements in technology have taken over the jewelry design business by storm. Every major designer, and most of the small ones, are using CAD design to give today’s couples a personal, unique design they can truly call their own.

Pair a CAD program with a 3D printer and you now have options. Lots of them. The beauty of being able to see your designs come to life on a computer screen and make changes in real time is magical. After a design is created, the model is made in wax or plastic to allow couples to try on their new design before the cost of creating them in precious metals has been started.

How much it costs to design a ring will vary depending on the complexity of the piece. Most designers will have a design fee usually based on how many hours that will be spent in front of the computer, making the model and casting the model into a precious metal. This cost can go from $200 to $600. From there the actual cost of the precious metal and diamonds or gemstones will be added.

Is it worth the added time and expense to design your own ring? To have a ring that is totally you and not anyone else? Think of it this way. The cost of looking down at your ring for the rest of your life and telling yourself “this is my dream ring” is priceless.

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 23

Cont. from pg 23

Couples can ask their guests to tag all their photos from the wedding with a certain hashtag, so the bride and groom can quickly see photos from their day in one place.

The same social media convenience can be a problem too, Staats said. Every wedding has its own story, she said, and she urges couples to communicate what they want from their guests.

“Some brides maybe don’t want people to share pictures before (the brides’) big reveal with their professional photographer,” Staats said.

“It’s an aspect that’s hard to manage. … Be clear about expectations and try to work with your guests.”

Those who prefer to keep photos from their wedding under lock and key until professional prints are ready — but still want the benefit of seeing guest photos together — have another option. At her own wedding last year, Staats used a free mobile app called WedPics, which allows guests to submit photos via the app instead of on social media.

WedPics functions similarly to a Facebook or Instagram hashtag in that it collects photos from an event under a common key phrase. The bride and groom select their unique phrase and, using email or text, invite reception guests into the app.

From there, guests can submit their photos and only those invited to the app can see the pictures.

The bride and groom need only turn off the “social sharing” setting inside the app to keep participants from sharing the app’s photos to their own social media accounts. Reception guests may still upload photos from their own phone to social media, but the couple may ask them to refrain from doing so.

Along with the Facebook and Instagram hashtag craze, some couples are going so far as to make their own Snapchat filter for guests to use.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on starting your own filter: • Visit snapchat.com and select “geofilters” under the “community” section.

• Select “on-demand” and log in to your Snapchat account.

24 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

• Snapchat’s website will walk you through the rest of the process.

Snapchat, an app that allows users to send photos that only appear for a few seconds to their friends, has the ability to add filters over photos to indicate certain places or events.

Couples interested in creating a geofilter for their special day will have to pay for an ondemand geofilter. Prices will vary depending on filter area size and how long the filter remains usable.

Wedding Planning Social Tables is one piece of software that can help with wedding and event planning, Staats said.

Social Tables provides 3D graphic images of venues for couples planning their wedding from afar, digital seating charts and diagrams.

It is a paid service, but there are free organization tools for couples on a stricter budget, such as the website The Knot, at theknot.com.

Heather Koch of Cadott is using The Knot for most of her planning needs, as well as Facebook groups for all events leading up to the wedding.

Lindsay Pomietlo of Eau Claire points to tools such as zola.com and wedding-spot.com to handle her registry and guest list, respectively. “(The websites) allowed me to stay organized and on track with planning while living my normal lifestyle,” Pomietlo said. “They also helped me define what my theme was and helped me refine my ideas.”

Event planners may look at social media and hashtags as a way to keep organized, but some couples see it as sentimental.

“It’s personal, it has to do with just us as a couple,” Koch said. “ Everyone has their cell phones, so people might catch moments that the photographer might not ... It will just be cool to see the wedding from everyone’s perspective.”

French is a former reporter for the Leader-Telegram.

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 25

Hitting the Right Notes Choice of entertainment can make or break ceremony

By Eva Apelqvist

Getting married means you’ve whittled options for a partner down to one.

Congratulations!

Picking that gem from a sea of plenty prompts a tidal wave of pearly-laced questions.

Will you go for poofy with a long train or a slim-fitting gown in off-white? Traditional black suit or country-style grey, maybe with white loafers? Stacked cake or cupcakes?

Daisies or roses or lilies with baby’s breath?

Who gets to write the soundtrack for your sparkling day?

You can ring the bell with a samba soirée or a half-jump step polkatanz under a rented party tent, but regardless of what you do, give it some thought. It could be the one thing that determines the success of your party and how people will remember it years later.

26 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

“

Planning a wedding is almost like putting together a mini theater production” - Sean Carlson

“The right deejay can make or break a wedding,” said Paul Wilkes, owner of All Occasions DJ Service. “People remember whether they danced or not. I have never heard anybody talk about whether the chicken was cold, but they remember the deejay.”

Indeed, it may be less important what you hire — a deejay or a band, or just somebody to emcee at your party and dinner — than who you hire: somebody who will help make your day spectacular and run smoothly.

Consider a deejay who can offer a full range of services, say Wilkes and Sean Carlson, both Eau Claire-based deejays who oftentimes take on the role of wedding planner when hired for the ceremonies.

deejay picks

“There are a lot of hobby deejays out there,” said Carlson, deejay and owner of Carlson Entertainment. He said being able to emcee the celebration sets a professional deejay apart from someone showing up with an iPod, noting that masters of ceremony can help make your day successful so long as your deejay can shoulder that role.

“Planning a wedding is almost like putting together a mini theater production,” Carlson said. “The bride and

the groom and their parents are all a part of this staged event. What we do is stand behind the scenes and act as directors, making everything flow beautifully.”

Carlson and Wilkes offer full services for couples getting married: ceremony production, dinner music, dance music, uplighting (using lights facing up against the walls to create desired color and ambiance), among other services.

searching for entertainment

Both deejays emphasize that it is important to meet with the deejay you consider hiring to make sure you can work well with him or her.

“The person you hire should be someone that complements your personality — someone you’re comfortable giving a microphone to in front of your family,” Carlson said.

You also want to find out how your deejay or your band performs. While you can’t see a deejay in action — unless you have seen them at another wedding — a good way to judge the fit is to ask them for a video recording.

Another way to check a deejay’s style is by reading reviews online, for example, at weddingwire.com. Even though some reviews can be misleading, they often show trends.

Cont. on pg 29

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 27

Put a comfortable foot forward at your wedding

Some say shoes make the woman, but if they’re uncomfortable, shoes very well may break the woman — especially at a wedding.

From the bride to the guests, choosing the wrong shoes could sideline you from dancing or cause pain through the night. A smarter step is to put just as much thought into the shoes you will wear as you will into other parts of your wardrobe.

Unless you’re wont to go anywhere without high heels, your feet may be unaccustomed to them for long durations of time. At a wedding, where it’s all about mingling and dancing, comfort should be considered just as much as style.

That doesn’t mean you have to forgo an attractive shoe just for something comfortable. It’s possible to have the best of both worlds. Here are some considerations.* Wedge heels: Unlike other types of heels that put the brunt of the pressure on the ball of the foot, wedge heels distribute body weight evenly throughout the foot. Therefore, you might find these are some of the most comfortable types of heels around. Designers make them in all styles, including more formal versions perfect for weddings and other special events.

28 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

ballet pumps:

Ballet pumps, once made famous by style icon Audrey Hepburn, can be worn with skirts or slacks. Their low profile helps keep feet comfortable, and they may come as flats or with a tiny heel. Embellished with bows, flowers or ribbons, these shoes will dress up any outfit.

sandals:

Particularly for warm-weather events, sandals can be quite comfortable and fashionable.

Giving a peek of toe and ankle can be just as sexy as stilettos, without the pain.

flip-flops:

Many brides choose to don flip-flops under their gowns simply because they can be so comfortable. Flip-flops needn’t be the run-of-the-mill rubber kind found in the discount bin. They can be dressed up to match your gown or purchased with gemstones and other decor already attached.

For those who prefer heels for photo ops, consider bringing along a change of shoes just in case foot pain flares up later in the evening.

But whoever they are, deejays have to get those people out on the dance floor. The rest will follow.

Flynn said that as a band, you also are constantly checking the atmosphere of the room; if people don’t seem to be responding to what you play, you change and play something else.

The benefit of a band as opposed to a single deejay, according to Flynn, is the fact that you have a whole group of people up there on the stage, not just one.

Cont. from pg 27

“Any client can go on there and write a review. We have no control,” Carlson said.

Equally important is getting to know a band you’re considering hiring.

Kyle Flynn, singer and guitar player for local band The Mondays, said some clients will watch his band perform three times before booking them for a wedding.

But the band must be flexibile and willing to work with you.

“If they tell you this is what they’re going to do and that’s that, I would probably go find somebody else,” he said.

what about the money?

Yes, there are $400 deejays out there, Wilkes said, and they could be exactly what you’re looking for.

If you’re on a budget, don’t assume that the cheapest deejay will be the best one for you. When you first start planning the music part of your wedding, Wilkes suggests that you put the money question aside and focus on what you really want.

“Forget the price at first. Make sure you find a deejay that matches what you’re looking for,” he said. After that, sit down and figure out how to

make it fit into your budget.

Carlson agreed that people should not shortchange themselves when hiring a deejay or a band. A good deejay is much more than somebody playing music from his spot behind the table, he said.

“People deserve so much more than that,” he said. “They deserve to have their love story shared in the best possible way and have their event be really special. That’s what we try to do.”

training for entertaining Wilkes personally trains the nine deejays at All Occasions DJ Service to listen for the vibe in the room during a party.

“It changes at every wedding,” he said. “You have to be very attentive going into a wedding.”

When there is a lull or people aren’t dancing, the deejay has to quickly figure out why and solve the problem, he said.

Sometimes it’s just because it’s too early. Sometimes people are shy. Then it becomes the deejay’s job to identify target people in the room.

According to Wilkes, those are most often the bride and groom.

That helps bring a certain positive energy, though Flynn noted that same level can be achieved by energetic deejays.

don’t stop the music

People might get the impression that if you hire a deejay, you also get to pick all the music.

Well, maybe not. According to Wilkes, a good deejay might not let you pick all your music. He might understand the party dynamics better than the bride and groom. They know you might have 200 guests there, all with different music tastes. They also know what music is good to dance to and what’s good background noise for when people want to sit and talk.

The Mondays singer Flynn also highlighted the importance of adjusting his band’s music for the crowd. The band makes sure it has music for all ages in its repertoire.

“You need to have something that everybody knows,” he said.

Apelqvist is a freelance writer based in Spooner.

For more information: All Occasions DJ Service: alloccasionsdeejayservice.com Carlson Entertainment: carlson-entertainment.com The Mondays: themondaysband.com

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 29

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Her impressions 37

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CHERRIES:

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7SNACKS

Cherries contain the sleep hormone melatonin, and the AARP notes that recent studies indicated that participants who drank tart cherry juice on a daily basis fell asleep more quickly and slept longer and better than participants who did not.

with these

ALMONDS:

Magnesium is a mineral with muscle-relaxing properties, and almonds contain enough magnesium to help men and women get a better night’s sleep. A small amount of almonds before bed might be enough to make falling and staying asleep easier.

WALNUTS:

Like cherries, walnuts contain melatonin, which can contribute to a longer, more restful night’s sleep. Walnuts also can help regulate stress, which is a leading cause of sleeping difficulty.

BANANAS:

Much like almonds, bananas provide a substantial amount of magnesium. Bananas also contain the amino acid tryptophan, which many people associate with Thanksgiving turkey. While tryptophan might be most often associated with the sleepiness people feel after eating a holiday meal, it also has been linked to better sleep quality, so a banana shortly before bed might be just what you need to fall and stay asleep.

PEANUT BUTTER:

CHEESE & CRACKERS:

One more traditional snack may just help you get a better night’s sleep.

Cheese and crackers contain tryptophan and carbohydrates, which can induce a better night’s sleep and help you fall asleep sooner.

Peanut butter is another snacking item loaded with tryptophan. Spread some peanut butter on a carbohydrate, whether it’s a slice of toast or some crackers, before going to bed, and you may enjoy a better, longer sleep.

HUMMUS:

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4 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

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Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 5

WAYS MEN & WOMEN METABOLIZE FOOD DIFFERENTLY Men and women process food differently. When dieting side by side, men appear to shed pounds easier and more quickly than women do. But is that really the case?

According to Greg Caporaso, assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University and assistant director of the Center for Microbial Genetics and Genomics, diet affects men’s and women’s stomach microbes differently, even when identical foods have been eaten.

In addition, according to the paper ‘Lower sedentary metabolic rate in women compared with men,’ R. Ferraro, S. Lillioja, A. M. Fontvieille, R. Rising, C. Bogardus, and E. Ravussin, affiliated with the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and National Institutes of Health, Phoenix, and published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, on average, women’s total energy expenditure, which is the number of calories burned for metabolic needs, including breathing, blood circulation, digestion and physical activity, is around 5 to 10 percent lower than men’s.

The composition of the female body also differs from the composition of the male body. Men have more muscle mass and less body fat than women, which also can contribute to how easily men may be able to shed weight. Maintaining that muscle mass can push their metabolisms even further.

According to the Poliquin Group, producers of unique weight training fitness programs and supplements, the following factors also come into play.

6 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

• At rest, women burn more glucose (sugars & starches) but less fat than men.

• Men & women burn & store body fat differently.

• Stress can inhibit fat loss in women.

• Diet trends, including fasting & calorie restriction, tend to be more beneficial for men than women.

To overcome these factors, women can work with their doctors, trainers and nutritionists to develop plans that take their unique metabolisms into consideration.

OurOur bodies loose flexibility, balance andand control over time or with lacklack of of bodies loose flexibility, balance control over time or with movement.

JoinJoin thethe Optimum Therapies team forfor a fun, interactive movement.

Optimum Therapies team a fun, interactive demonstration to get youyou moving andand have youyou WEDDING DAY READY! demonstration to get moving have WEDDING DAY READY! Optimum Therapies waswas established in 2001 by by Darrin Schober, PT,PT, MSPT to to Optimum Therapies established in 2001 Darrin Schober, MSPT 11:30 AM address thethe movement needs of the Chippewa Valley.

WeWe areare a direct access address movement needs of the Chippewa Valley. a direct accessNOON provider dedicated to Chi helping people andand employers restore andand improve provider dedicated to helping people employers restore improveManaging Stress Pilates & Tai movement.

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nce and control over time or with lack of erapies team for a fun, interactive and have you WEDDING DAY READY!

hed in 2001 by Darrin Schober, PT, MSPT to he Chippewa Valley. We are a direct access eople and employers restore and improve ut Optimum Therapies, visit our website at Darrin Schober, PT, MSPT

Darrin Schober, PT, MSPT Darrin Schober, PT, MSPT Owner & President President Owner & President Owner & Optimum Therapies, LLCLLC Optimum Therapies, LLC Optimum Therapies,

JulieSchober, Schober, NSCA JulieJulie NSCA Schober, NSCA Certified Personal Trainer CertiÞed Personal Trainer CertiÞed Personal Trainer

Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT

Dr. Alyse Hall

e Schober, NSCA ed Personal Trainer

Kristin Echtemach, PT, MSPT

Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT

Our bodies lose flexibility, balance and control over

Schober, NSCA Julie NSCA Darrin Schober, MSPT Darrin Schober, PT,lack MSPT time orPT, with of movement.Julie Join theSchober, Optimum CertiÞed Personal Trainer CertiÞed Personal Trainer Owner & President Owner & President Therapies team for a fun, interactive demonstration Optimum Therapies, LLC Optimum Therapies, LLC

to get you moving and have you WEDDING DAY READY!

Optimum Therapies was established in 2001 by Darrin Schober, PT, MSPT to address the movement needs of the Chippewa Valley. We are a direct access provider dedicated to helping people and employers restore and improve movement. To learn more about Optimum Therapies, visit our website at www.optimumtherapies.com .

ulie Schober, NSCA tiÞed Personal Trainer

Dr. Alyse’s seminar will help you learn more about issues that create stress in today’s everyday life, understand the physical/bodily reactions that take place when we feel stress. Learn about other stress management techniques to manage stress, such as POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS, ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE, VISUALIZATION and JOURNALING Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT

Undeniably, stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior.

Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can give you a jump on managing them. Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Kristin Echternach, PT, MSPT

Therapies Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 7

Even the most devoted exercise enthusiasts sometimes encounter obstacles that make it hard for them to squeeze in their regular workouts. Weather can affect outdoor exercise enthusiasts, while busy work schedules can make it difficult to get to the gym.

4

When unforeseen consequences compromise your ability to stick to your normal workout routine, working out at home might be your only option. The following are a handful of ways to exercise at home when leaving the house is out of the question.

WAYS TO EXERCISE HOME

@

Hit the stairs.

Many gyms have StairMasterÂŽ products that can be used for high-intensity interval training, calorie-burning workouts and/or improving flexibility. While you might not be able to duplicate the effects of such equipment at home, walking up and down the staircases in your home will help squeeze in some aerobic exercise. If you want to increase the intensity level, fill a backpack with some weights.

Dust off the jump rope.

Jumping rope is an inexpensive, effective way to burn calories and improve muscle tone. When confined to your home, jump rope in the garage or, weather permitting, in the driveway or backyard. Jumping rope is great cardiovascular exercise and can strengthen the upper and lower body. Men and women who have histories of joint paint, including problems with their knees, ankles and/or hips, should consult with their physicians before adding jumping rope to their exercise routines.

Become a squatter.

You can become a squatter without breaking any laws. Unlike squatters who set up residence in a home without the permission of the homeowners, men and women who squat in their own homes are performing exercises that benefit various parts of their bodies.

Squats can be performed with or without weights, and either option can help tone your legs and buttocks, strengthen your core and improve your flexibility. Be sure to use proper form when performing squats. If you have never done squats in the past, first get the form down without using weights, only moving on to squatting with weights after you have mastered the form and if you feel like you want to.

Embrace crunch time.

Crunches are another effective way to exercise at home. Crunches don’t require a lot of space, making them great exercises for apartment dwellers or homeowners whose homes are less than conducive to exercise.

Crunches strengthen the core and can help establish muscle tone. Crunches also burn calories. Be sure to adhere to proper form when performing crunches, as the wrong form can increase your risk of injury.

8 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

The confines of a home may not always be conducive to exercise. But fitness enthusiasts who find themselves unable to get out of the house can still get a workout in.

12:30 PM

1:00 PM

Demonstration

Healthy Lifestyles

Highland Fitness

Maximized Living

Highland Fitness is locally owned and operated right here in the Chippewa Valley. Save time and gas money with our three convenient locations that are close to where you live, work, and play. Our WestRidge and Hallie locations are 24 hours! Convenient, friendly and comfortable... Say “hi� to a better you at Highland Fitness!

Whether you are a fitness novice looking to incorporate healthy habits into your lifestyle or a seasoned health nut looking for a challenge, the Highland Fitness team is committed to helping you attain your personal wellness goals! Our supportive and passionate staff will go above and beyond the call of duty to give our devoted members an OUTSTANDING experience!

Dr. Aaron Arfstrom, D.C.

Real Health How do you determine whether or not you are healthy? Is it based on how many vegetables you eat? Is it based on how you feel? Or is it based on how often you exercise? Find out why none of these are mentioned in the definition of the word health and figure out how to truly transform your health as we discuss the real definition of the word health!

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 9

Health Benefits of

MUSIC

Plato said ‘Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.’

Music often communicates messages that are not easily expressed, which is one reason why it is such an integral part of so many people’s lives.

While many people love music for its entertainment value, there is growing evidence that music can be good for overall health as well. A study from researchers at the Cleveland Clinic focused on the use of music for brain surgery patients who must be awake during their procedures. Researchers found that music enabled the patients to manage anxiety, reduce pain and relax more fully during their procedures.

In a study titled, ‘The effect of music intervention in stress response to cardiac surgery in a randomized clinical trial,’ a team of Swedish researchers measured serum cortisol, heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, arterial oxygen tension, arterial oxygen saturation and subjective pain and anxiety levels for patients who had undergone cardiothoracic surgery. Those who were allowed to listen to music during recuperation and bed rest had lower cortisol levels than those who rested without music.

Many doctors now play music while operating or enable patients to listen to music to calm their nerves during in-office procedures.

According to Caring Voice Coalition, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of patients with chronic illnesses, music has also been shown to enhance memory and stimulate

10 Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions

both sides of the brain, which may help individuals recover from stroke or those suffering from cognitive impairments.

Music also can have a positive impact on mood. Neuroscientists have discovered that listening to music heightens positive emotions through the reward centers of the brain. Music stimulates the production of dopamine, creating positive feelings as a result.

Some researchers think that music may help improve immune response, promoting faster recovery from illness.

Undergraduate students at Wilkes University measured the levels of IgA, an important antibody for the immune system’s first line of defense against disease, from saliva. Levels were measured before and after 30 minutes of exposure to various sounds, including music. Soothing music produced significantly greater increases in IgA than any of the other conditions.

Another way music has been linked to improved health is its ability to make physical activity seem less mundane. Listening to songs can distract one from the task at hand, pushing focus onto the music rather than the hard work being done. When exercising, upbeat music can help a person go a little further as they work to achieve their fitness goals than working out without music.

The benefits of music extend beyond enjoying a favorite song, as music can do much to contribute to one’s overall health.

1:30 PM

Kickboxing‌ Anyone can do it!

9round Kick Boxing

9Round started in January of 2015 and ever since, it has been a fantastic journey. Like many others, figuring out where to start my journey to become the best me I could be was a difficult task. We looked at many different options, but the only thing my mind kept going back to was when I was going to be able to hit a bag again.

I was addicted. Since Zachary Hollenbeck, 9Round Eau Claire January of 2015 I have spent countless hours in the gym perfecting my technique for both myself, and teaching those who want to learn about this fantastic sport. The journey has unlocked many new aspects of life that before I thought unattainable. Since starting with 9Round I have gained the motivation to be a competitor in terrain/obstacle races and going back to school. We see all walks of life come through the door at the club. Seeing people with the intent to guide themselves towards a healthy life is what keeps us going. Here at the club we want to do everything we can to inspire, motivate and help others to well-being.

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We are dedicated to providing compassion, trust, and a life��me of individualized care.

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OTHER LOCATIONS : AMERY, BLACK RIVER FALLS, CUMBERLAND & DURAND 813042 • 9-11-16

Have you ever made goals for yourself, either for the New Year or after another milestone such as a birthday, and seen them fall through? We all have!

Goals, particularly those that affect lifestyle changes, are tough to keep on top of sometimes. Often, the issue is that a goal is too broad, such as a goal to simply lose weight. However, by creating smaller, more manageable goals, you can boost your confidence and your results!

REACH YOUR GOALS

Below are four tips the Eau Claire YMCA recommends to help your goals stick: 1. Start small. Break those big goals into small, achievable objectives. Instead of cutting chocolate out of your diet for good, vow to only have it a few times a week.

When you join the YMCA, you join a community here to help YOU reach your goals!

2. Take it one step at a time. Trying to change too many habits at once can easily lead to frustration. Focus on one small change for a month, and add another change when the new month rolls around.

We feature classes and programs for every level, from Beginner Fitness and group exercise classes to TRX, boot camp, and personal training.

3. Choose a facility that fits your needs. When it comes to adding healthy behaviors, like increasing physical activity, it’s important to find a place that keeps you motivated.

Your facility should not be just a gym, but a community organization that offers more health, more hope and more opportunity.

Give the Y a try today!

Eau Claire YMCA | 700 Graham Avenue, Eau Claire, WI www.eauclaireymca.org | 715.836.8460 814092_9-11-16

4. Talk it out. It’s easier to stick to your goals if you have a partner or friend working toward similar ends. Set specific check-ins to help each other out of slumps and to cheer each other during the high points.

814094 9-11-16

Leader-Telegram Fall 2016 Her impressions 17

Vendor List 9rounds

Kristo Orthodontics

Apex Chiropractic

The Diet Doc

Appel Chiropractic

L’BRI

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Curves / Jenny Craig

Chippewa Valley Vein Clinic

Oakleaf Clinic Eau Claire

Hebert Dental

Women’s & Family Care and OB-GYN Clinic of Eau Claire

Mayo Health System

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