Operation wedding day 2014

OPERATION 2014

destination weddings

operation

marry me military

The MainStay Suites Hotel and the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, both of Jacksonville, North Carolina, proudly offer “Special Rates” for Wedding Groups, Sporting Events, Corporate Lodging and Military Events.

In addition to our two hotels, we offer access to a “Water Front Private Residence” that has breath taking views. This three story venue features six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a loft with wooden spiral staircase, an elevator, beautiful landscaped lawn with an in ground pool, a four foot privacy wall around the property with electronic gates and two boat docks.

Each hotel offers on-site: • • • •

Fitness Center Business Center Full Kitchens in every room Guest Laundry facilities

• Outdoor Grills • Free Wired and Wireless High Speed Internet • Plenty of Well Lit Parking

We ALWAYS honor the Government Per Diem Rate!

2201 North Marine Jacksonville, NC 28546 (910) 219-1238 Rick Young, Area General Manager • Newly opened 2013 • Ranked #2 in Chain • Continental Breakfast • Lobby Lounge with ABC permits • Media Wall (6 50” flat screens) • Events Patio / Fire Pit (up to 300 people) • Free Airport Shuttle (Jacksonville)

1323 Lejeune Blvd Jacksonville, NC 28540 (910) 346-7759 Gail Swan, General Manager • 2014 Choice Hotels Platinum Award Winner • Ranked #1 in Suburban chain for 2013 • Seasonal Outdoor Pool • Oversized Event Gazebo • Board Room / Meeting Room • Pet Friendly • Closest hotel to Camp Johnson

TO RESERVE A BLOCK OF ROOMS FOR YOUR EVENT PLEASE CONTACT US! Cid Yow | Director of Sales | (910) 219-1238 EXT 7003 | (910) 545-2645

content 6 brides who

brunch

17

engaged

8

photo by michele parsley

wedding

popular

general Manager Denise Walker Business Manager Melissa Stone Managing Editor Ena Sellers Graphics Manager Becca Keller Graphic Designer Victoria Butler Featured editors

hairstyles

account executives

redos

14

wedding

bridal

expo

Dennis Fusco

office

1122 Henderson Dr., Jacksonville, N.C. 28540

disclaimer

21

eat cake

Bobby Stone Emily Kelley Courtney Keys Heather Bormann

Distribution Manager

guide

let them

Ashley Torres Desiree Nelson

30

Wedding

The special Operation Wedding Day is published by Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C., a private enterprise not connected with the DoD or the U.S. Marine Corps. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of these products or services by the DoD, the U.S. Marine Corps, or Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. For distribution and advertising inquiries, call 347-9624.

Emergency

Supplies

OPERATION WEDDING DAY | 3

slim & trim 5 tips to shed pounds before the big day

By Desiree Nelson

No woman wants to look anything but spectacular on her wedding day. But, with your mind on centerpieces, registries and cake flavors, it can be easy to let exercise fall to the wayward. Now it’s a week before your wedding and you need to slim up fast.

No worries. We’ve got you covered. Follow these five tips and you’ll be slimmer and trimmer just in time for the big day.

Drink water:

Ditch the diet soda and start sipping on water. Besides being good for you, it helps clear your body of toxins. Sipping it throughout the day can prevent over-eating. Eight, 8-ounce glasses of water is recommended daily. Need some flavor? Try adding sliced lemon or cucumber. In addition to flavor, you’ll get some nutrients.

slim down portions:

Instead of filling your plate to the brim, start with only half. Allow your body 20 minutes before going back for seconds.

Research suggests that 20 minutes is the time it takes your body to register that it’s full. By then you could have already eaten hundreds of unnecessary calories. If you’re still hungry after waiting, go back for more but stick to veggies and avoid high-carb and fatty foods.

fill up on fruits and veggies:

The week before your wedding fill up on veggies. Not only do they have fewer calories, but they’re packed with fiber. Stash a banana or apple in your bag for snacking during the day. Visit an Oriental market,

CoastalPetals.com

often packed with exotic fruits and vegetables to keep things interesting.

cut back on booze:

The average beer has roughly 150 calories, wine has around 180 and a single cocktail has at least 200 calories; keeping in mind you only have one. Save those libations for the big day and drink some water instead.

exercise:

This may seem like an obvious one but with all the chaos of the big day, it can be easy to forget. Try squeezing in at least a 30-minute workout three times a week.

Not only will you be in better shape but you’ll rid yourself of some stress in the process.

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photo by jenne vazquez photography

Brides who Brunch:

Why to host a brunch wedding

By Desiree Nelson

A

s more and more couples go against tradition in favor of personalization and creative expression, brunch weddings are becoming increasingly popular. Usually smaller in size, a brunch wedding can offer a more intimate, affordable and uniquely stylized event, with more options for dates, venues and timeline. Typically held on Saturday or Sunday mornings, they generally wrap up by late afternoon, and according to Rachel Deere, wedding planner and owner of Bridal by the Sea “they’re a nice option for couples who are looking to leave for their honeymoon right away, instead of having to pack and leave early the next day.”

cost cutting

Food and drink is one of the biggest wedding expenses, but breakfast foods are typically cheaper than dinner food, according to Deere. “In general there is less alcohol being served and the guest list tends to be shorter,” said Deere. “Brunch weddings allow for maximization of budget which can be achieved through lighter fare.” In addition, vendors from musicians to restaurants may offer discounted rates if it means they can double up on gigs for the day, typically cutting costs by 20 to 30 percent.

food, food, food

Brunch foods can be absolutely decadent and delicious. Think coffee cake, smoked salmon, waffles or pancake stacks with fresh raspberries; a daytime wedding is the

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Bachelorette Party, Bridal Shower or Ladies Night Out ... come celebrate with us!

No experience needed! perfect option for crafting a menu of favorites. Deere suggests a fully loaded build-your-own espresso bar or specialty coffee station and a variety of drinks or freshly squeezed juices. Couples can opt for a traditional cake, or they can choose dessert bars and buffets, as well as muffins, Danishes and other decadent pastries.

rise and shine

Hosting a morning event means you’ll have great light for your photos all day. You won’t have to rush to get photos at the magic hour before dark. Beautiful daylight, lush gardens, and clear skies can make for phenomenal photographs and a daytime event opens up a number of fantastic photo ops.

photo by side yard studios

Parties are two hours.

Private room available.

Pick what you want to paint.

Professional Artist to provide step-by-step instruction.

Bring your own wine, beer and food.

If you wish to decorate, please arrive a little early.

1006-B Henderson Drive Jacksonville NC 28546 (910) 219-3943 www.WineAndDesignUS.com/Jacksonville

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY |7

Wedding Redo 5 vow renewal questions answered

photo by Michele Parsley Photography

By Desiree Nelson

M

any couples decide to renew their vows, whether to reaffirm their love for one another after many years of marriage, to “formalize” their wedding after an elopement or to have the wedding of their dreams they couldn’t afford when they first tied the know. Whatever the reason for renewing, the details can be a bit confusing. Here are the answers to the most common renewal questions.

who officiates? Since the ceremony isn’t legally binding virtually anyone can renew your vows. Be traditional and ask a clergyman or priest. Or change things up and ask one of your children or perhaps the Maid of Honor or Best Man from your wedding would do the honors. what should you wear? If you’re the bride, you have the option of wearing your original gown. Doesn’t fit? A pretty cocktail dress or formal evening gown is a nice option. However, skip the veil. Go instead for a small headpiece or wear a flower in your hair. Feel free to carry a bouquet or don a corsage.

Should you have a wedding party? The second time around there’s no need for a formal wedding party. Instead have your children, grandchildren or a close friend stand beside you for support or opt out of the tradition all together. should you have a reception? Of course you should have a reception. You can choose to have a formal sit down dinner, intimate dinner party with only your nearest and dearest or even a backyard barbeque. The choice is yours. Have a full sized wedding cake or opt for a desert table instead. Displaying photos of your wedding throughout the venue could be a nice touch or reusing the original playlist could be a throwback to earlier times. During the reception take some time to thank your guests for all they have contributed to your marriage. should you register? The presence of your guests is gift enough so skip the registry. If they insist, suggest they make a donation to an organization you support.

You’ll never forget this day. And you’ll never forget this place.

On this day, you deserve perfection, from an oceanfront venue to meticulously appointed accommodations. Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms makes even the most special events happen effortlessly and is just minutes from the top-ranked city in the world - Charleston, South Carolina. Begin your lives together in a better place. wilddunesweddings.com

Call 888.219.1362 to learn about special military wedding rates.

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

Jacksonville, NC

OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 9

operation marry me military

photo by wendy hilliard

photo by open aperture photography

photo by Dianne Personett Photography

W

ith the bustle of buying a wedding dress, securing a venue and picking out flowers, the cost of a wedding can get expensive.

Operation Marry Me Military provides a chance for military couples to win a free wedding.

The wedding will take place on Veterans Day, one lucky couple will be announced for Brunswick, New Hanover, Craven, Lee, Mecklenburg, Cabarrus and Buncombe counties.

Any military couple who can prove their status as single and active-duty within three months of Nov. 11 can apply for a chance to win the complimentary wedding.

Every story is unique and OMMM wants to hear about how each couple met.

Founder Alecia Davis-Geddings of Oak Island Photography and Weddings began the operation in 2011, where five lucky couples throughout the state were married

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By ashley torres within the first year of the program.

Since beginning the campaign Davis-Geddings has been able to help 18 military couples. Seven counties have donated more than $570,000 in free goods and services. Eventually Davis-Geddings would like to have all 100 counties involved in the operation by 2021.

“Being the daughter of a U.S. Army veteran, I felt compelled to give back,” said Davis-Geddings. “I knew that nothing I could offer would be grand enough or deserving enough for all that our military does for us.”

The goal for the operation is to have the counties provide free lodging, venues, photographers, caterers, flowers and more. This allows the winning couple to relax as they plan their wedding without the financial worry.

“One requirement that I wanted to make was that each county wedding must use all vendors within their own county,” said Davis-Geddings. “Keeping the vendors

within your county is tricky, but it has brought together many competitors and formed bonds within our industry.”

In 2013 Craven County threw a wedding for Thera Card and Sam Thibeault including 16 vendors who donated items for the wedding. Sam is an eight-year veteran of the Marines who was stationed aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. The couple planned their ceremony on the steps of the Tryon Palace and reception at the North Carolina History Center within two months with help from the areas wedding professionals, according to Bob and Amanda Mackowski.

“I know it is only a small part that I am doing, but I hope that I can make a special memory for those deserving much more than a wedding,” said Davis-Geddings.

Eligible couples can receive more information and apply online at www.operationmmm.com.

Craven County November 11, 2013

Sam Thera

Sam and Thera won their wedding completely free through Operation Marry Me Military, a charity that donates weddings to actie duty military couples. They had only two months to plan their Veterans Day wedding and all of the area’s best wedding professionals came together to donate their services. Their wedding was valued at roughly $22,000.

Sam is an eight year veteran of the Marines and he’s stationed at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC. Thera (pronounded “Tara”) works for the city of Jacksonville. They’ve known each other since they went to middle school together in Michigan. Thera moved to North Carolina to take a chance on a relationship with Sam, a chance that clearly paid off.

photos by open aperture photography

Every Fairytale Should Include a Palace Whether you’re looking for an iconic Palace, the modesty of a historic home, scenic gardens, or modern amenities and riverfront views at the North Carolina History Center, Tryon Palace is the premier destination for • Weddings • Receptions • Bridal Portraits

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 11

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Akea’s expertshave havetraveled traveled and extensively Akea’s experts to to and extensively researched Longevity Hot Spots, places around researched Longevity Hot Spots, places around thethe globe where people live long, vibrant lives and globe where people live long, vibrant lives and are are virtually freeofofchronic chronicdisease. disease. ey discovered virtually free ThTh ey discovered their their longevity and overall great health was due to longevity and overall great health was due to much much more than just diet and exercise alone. It’s moreabout than just diet and exercise alone. also about also lifestyle.

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Finding the perfect wedding dress for your body type

Y

By Ashley Torres

our wedding day is the oneday many women feel the most beautiful and the pressure to find that perfect dress it on.

Here are some useful tips to help you find the perfect dress for each body type.

Hourglass

An hourglass figure provides the perfect opportunity for any bride to show off her curves. Stray away from those ruffles and opt for a sleek dress to hug your figure. The dresses that are more likely to show off those gorgeous curves are the sheath, trumpet or mermaid dress by hugging the bride’s upper body flaring out at the bottom

Apple

Those with an apple body figure are widest around the torso.

This gives brides the prospect to bring attention to their necks with sweetheart necklines. The apple shape bride should cinch at the waist and flare out into an A shape at the bottom, go for the empire or A-line silhouette. They provide the chance for apple body type brides to bring attention to their necks and elongate their bodies.

Pear

Hourglass

pear

apple

Rectangle

Brides who are thinner up top and heavier on the bottom can easily balance their look with embellished dresses. Pear shaped brides can wear dresses with flowers or lace to bring more attention up top. Also one shoulder dresses, diagonally draped bodices, strapless or scoop necklines are perfect way to add balance.

Ball gowns and A-line dresses are also good to bring attention away from the hips.

Rectangle

Rectangle body shaped brides who’s shoulders and hips are about the same width, should focus on cinching the waist and widening the shoulders. Fitted corsets, wide necklines and full skirts are sensible choices. Skip the sheaths and go for the strapless or mermaid.

The strapless dress will add attention upwards, and the mermaid will bring more attention to the hem. Also adding a colored sash or beading around the waist will create the perfect illusion. In addition adding layers to a dress give the bride an hourglass figure.

OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 13

HairBest wedding hairstyles for 2014 By desiree nelson

W

hether you’re attending the wedding as an honored guest, bridesmaid or the one saying “I do,” we’ve found the perfect hairstyles to compliment your look. According to Kristen Hodge, hairstylist at TLC Tanning Spa & Bowtique in Jacksonville, N.C., creating a romantic hairstyle is one of the best ways to achieve that special look for the big day.

From wispy and effortless styles to sleek and polished

looks, here are her picks for the best wedding hairstyles of 2014:

Tousled and romantic:

The beauty of flowers, relaxed elegance and vintage, best describes this style. The approach supplements a sweet vintage dress perfectly, according to Hodge. Incorporate loose waves and a floral headpiece to this style.

Tousled and romantic

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ballerina bun: This romantic style creates an elegant, yet

simple look. That simplicity magnifies the beauty of the bride and her gown on the big day, added Hodge. Tease your roots to add volume or incorporate a small hairpiece or flower for the perfect added touch.

adorned and polished: The style itself says what it

ballerina bun

Hair

best represents; an adorned and polished bride. This style looks fabulous with satin or 40’s inspired vintage dresses, said Hodge.

Try this look with a bold lip color and natural eye.

kept down:

Keeping those beautiful locks down creates an elegant look, perfect for the bride who embraces her natural beauty, added Hodge. Try putting it half up or wearing loose curls to add texture to this look.

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Onslow County

Bridal Expo 2014 Skip the stress and ENGAGE with the best! This is your chance to engage with wedding and reception venue sites, DJ’s, jewelers, bakers, caterers, florists and more - easily and at ONE time at ONE venue. The wedding experts at the Engaged Onslow Bridal Expo will help you plan the wedding of your dreams with ease. This is your opportunity to meet the professionals in person and benefit from exclusive discounts and door prizes from this show.

Saturday, March 1 10am-4pm

2pm Groom and Groomsmen Fashion Show hosted by Margolis Men’s Wearhouse Bridesmaids and Mother of the Bride Fashion Show hosted by Classics Bridal and Formal Wear

Saturday, March 1 7pm-9pm

After Party Reception We have an exciting new venue to show you!

85 Shoreline Drive, Jacksonville, NC 28540 We will have Lit Hors d’oeuvres, Drinks and Dancing and some great prizes!

Sunday, March 2 10am-3pm

1pm Bridal Fashion Show hosted by Classics Bridal and Formal Wear Grand Prize Giveaway Thank you to our sponsors: Landmark Military Media, City of Jacksonville, Onslow County Tourism, Crystal Coast Tent & Event Rentals, Viamark Advertising, By His Design, DJ Professionals, Bradley’s Jewelers, Belk, Forget-Me-Not-Florist, Classics Bridal and Formal Wear If you missed out on Engaged Onslow Bridal Expo, don’t worry! Visit our website for a complete vendor list: www.engagedonslow.com

OPERATION WEDDING DAY 17

Onslow County

event planners Charmed

Wedding & Event Planners making moments magical

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Linda Hatcher (910) 526-9446 www.facebook.com/SomethingSpecial-Weddings-Events

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18 OPERATION WEDDING DAY

Bridal Expo 2014

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Onslow County

VENUES

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY 19

HOTELS Jacksonville, NC

Holiday Inn Express: (910) 347-1900 Comfort Suites: (910) 346-8900 Candlewood Suites: (910) 333-0494

jewelry

Onslow County

Bridal Expo 2014

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bakery (910) 346-2347

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photography

Eastern Sky Photography (206) 795-6404 www.EasternSkyPhotography.com

Entertainment O: (252) 222-4884 C: (252) 241-7271 www.djprofessionalsandvideo.com

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weight loss Terri Bock (910) 340-9126 terribock92@yahoo.com terribock.myitworks.com www.bockwellnessgroup.com

let them eat cake 3 ways to have your stand-out cake By desiree nelson

C

ouples are constantly seeking out ways to personalize their big day and the cake is an excellent place to start.

However, often times while embracing creative expression; couples can go a little overboard.

According to Kimberly Arico, cake artist and owner of K and S cakes in Jacksonville, N.C., less is more when it comes to having a stand-out cake. Keep these ideas in mind when designing your dream cake to avoid an over-thetop cake blunder.

Handmade items:

According to Arico, handmade items, such as flowers and figurines, are

an excellent way to add some interest to your cake. You can have flowers made to match your bouquet or figurines made to resemble you and your soon-to-be spouse.

A little bling:

We’re not talking disco ball cake here, but a little bling can go a long way when adding some personality to your cake. According to Arico, you don’t need to add a lot to make your cake stand out, just a little here and there. Try a strand of diamond pearls at the base of each layer or perhaps a sparkly monogram cake topper. Whatever you decide, remember less is more.

Personalize it:

What means the most to you and your spouse? How did you meet? What are some memories you’d like displayed on your cake? According to Arico, your cake should reflect you as a couple. She has made everything from a Vegas themed cake to a zombie cake, to a cake with snowman bride, groom and baby cake topper.

Remember your wedding is ultimately for you and your spouse. If you want an over-the-top cake then go for it. More of an understated couple? That’s fine too. Just be sure that your cake makes you happy and represents you as a couple.

K and S Cakes For your wedding cake needs, consider us for…

Uniqueness:

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Each cake is based on your requirements or leave it up to us for that special day.

We will walk you through the process with expert recommendations to meet your specifications.

Our cakes are made fresh without preservatives.

Imagination: Your cake ideas come to life.

Contact us for an obligation free quote.

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 21

! re e H e d a M s e i r o m e M

Wedding Packages to fit your budget.

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destination wedding P lanning a destination wedding By ashely torres

Destination weddings have become a popular tradition for many couples looking to celebrate their wedding day somewhere exotic and unique.

With beautiful beaches, plantations, estates, gardens and more Cape Fear and the Crystal Coast of North Carolina provide breathtaking views and locations for couples to celebrate their big day.

Consider a wedding planner

Planning a destination wedding can be difficult if you live far from your destination. The best advice for someone planning a destination wedding depending on how much time they have would be to consider a planner. A local wedding planner can do all the things you won’t photo by rachel smith photography be able to. If a bride and groom both

work full time it will be difficult to get all the research done, a planner can help do all the heavy lifting. In addition having a planner can help lead you to the right vendors.

Check out venues

A couple should also take the time to learn about the different venues and vendors. Couples should carve out time to visit numerous locations and venues they are seriously considering and meeting with vendors before making their final decision.

Know the land

Couples should take the time to consider the land and the different climate destinations to avoid any last minute surprises.

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Seasonal Bouquets U

sing seasonal fresh flowers is an economic alternative for brides who want to get the most bang for their buck.

Many couples are not aware that flowers are a seasonal product. When flowers are not in season, cost goes up as growers have to ship them from areas of the world with different growing timelines, some refrigerate bulb plants and grow them in heated greenhouses.

The process is costly and more likely than not the blooms can be of inferior beauty as those grown naturally.

A good idea is to start doing some research and work your color palette options around the season at the time of your wedding.

If you are getting married at a time of year when the flower colors you prefer are more difficult to obtain or you are on a strict budget, a good alternative is to add decorative elements in that color or to use a few of your must have blooms on your bouquet. Also avoid getting married around holidays with high flower demand like Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. Brides can coordinate their flowers by the four different seasons, here are a few tips to get you started:

Winter:

Many brides fear that seasonal flowers in winter include berries with lots of

By ashely torres

green and red, but that’s not always the case.

Brides can use textured silvers and greens like fern shaped dusty millers, amaryllis,’ evergreens and more. In addition, brides can include red or crème colored flowers mixed in.

The recommended flowers that are in season during the winter months are Callas, Gardenias, Lilies, Gerbera Daisies, Orchids, Roses and Tulips. Hydrangeas are also in season however they are more expensive in the winter as they are going out of season.

Spring:

This is the season where flowers are beginning to bloom. You may add a pop of color to your bouquet by including bright purples, yellows and pale green flowers that bring out the spring feel. Popular flowers that bring out color are cherry blossoms, lily of the valleys and hydrangeas.

The recommended flowers that are in season during the spring months are Tulips (best for this season), Callas, Gardenias, Lilacs, Lilies, Roses, Gerbera Daisies and Orchids.

Summer:

Simple and lush make the best bouquets during the summer. Use pale pinks, yellows, corals and crèmes to add to that summer touch, according to Andrea Muller, owner of Petal Pushers, in Emerald Isle, N.C..

Yellow flowers especially make a summer bouquet stand out using sunflowers, zinnias and black eyes susans. Summer brides have a wide range of flowers that grow during the summer giving them the most choices. Lilies and Roses are the best for this season, other recommended flowers that are in season during the summer months are Callas, Gardenias, Hydrangeas, Gerbera Daisies and Orchids.

Lilacs and Tulips are also available during the summer however they might be more expensive as they are going out of season.

Fall:

Bring out the colors of the season with the changing colors of the leaves. Fall bouquets are usually full of rich colors, according to Muller. Represent this foliage through dusty mauves and hints of brown textures using orange, red and pale yellows. Consider wrapping burlap around the bouquet to let the colors stand out. Brides can mix and match Roses, Amaryllis, Calla lilies and more.

The recommended flowers that are in season during the fall months are Callas, Gardenias, Hydrangeas Lilies, Gerbera Daisies, Orchids and Roses.

Tulips are also available during the fall, however they might be more expensive as they are going out of season.

OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 25

Photos by EllenLeRoyPhotography.com

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junk it or trunk it The pros and cons of trashing or preserving your dress By desiree nelson

F

or years, brides have been faithfully taking their wedding dresses to the cleaners for preservation to be placed in pretty boxes with an acetate window. But, with more and more brides bucking tradition, fewer are preserving

Trash it

Trashing the dress can be a fun way to add to wedding memories, according to Mandy Hodge, local photographer. And unlike preserving your gown, you’ll be able to display the photos where they can be appreciated.

Pros:

Cons:

• Your beautiful dress will be • Who doesn’t love a creative photo shoot without the worry gone forever, although immortalized in photos. of getting your gown dirty.

• Wedding dresses don’t come • The photos are unique and cheap. can be put on display, unlike • It’s a cool trend but will you that boxed up dress.

• Many charities are now using feel the same in 20 years? trash the dress to create awareness and raise money for a good cause.

their gowns and opting instead to wear them one more time for a “trash the dress” photo shoot. We’ve scoped out the pros and cons of each option. Now all you have to do is decide, junk it or trunk it?

Preserve it:

According to Lisa Morton, supervisor at Coastal Garment Care in Jacksonville, N.C., preserving your gown is a great option for some and preservation is typically guaranteed for 20 years, depending on the gown and company you choose.

Pros:

• To pass it down to younger generations.

• You can wear it again if you ever renew your vows.

• You will always have a physical memory of your dress instead of just a photo.

Cons:

• Your dress will sit in a box and rarely be seen.

• You may never wear it again and it’s likely your daughter won’t either.

• The cost can range from $150 to $500 and beyond.

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY| 27

registry photo by rachel smith photography

Ideas for an unconventional registry By ashely torres

W

hen most people think of wedding registries they usually picture a couple running around big named stores with a scanner in their hands.

Recently though people have been changing registries and going for a more unique or unconventional route. In an age like today many couples have probably already been living together. They may already have those fancy cook ware items and dishes that are usually found on a wedding registry. Yes it is good to always get new plates, but how many plates can one couple have.

A bride and groom may consider something a little out of the ordinary to ask for from their wedding guests.

Maybe the couple is looking to buy a new house for them to live in together and potentially raise a family. They might ask for money to help put a down payment on their house. Houses can

28| OPERATION WEDDING DAY

be expensive and a new couple might need a financial boost to help scrap up the money for their dream house.

A couple can ask for items from Home Depot or Lowes to help remodel their home if they already have a house. Wedding guests can visit the gift center at homedepot.com or look for a couple registries on lowes.com. They may already found their dream house, but it might need a little work. Decorations from Home Decorations can also add a little more to the home rather than purchasing a silverware set. A bride and groom may ask for a little help in building their home through remodeling or decorations.

The new husband and wife may also be thinking about other people and not themselves. They could already have the home they want to live in and want guests to provide assistance to their favorite charity or their future children.

Charities have become a growing theme

for wedding registries. For some couples the idea of celebrating their marriage and getting the opportunity to help others is the best way to rejoice. Newlyweds may ask their guests to donate money to the couple’s favorite charity instead of receiving cards of money for themselves.

In addition, while they may not ask for money toward their favorite charity a couple could ask to help fund their children’s college. Opening bank accounts for children when they are small helps parents prepare for when their children want to go to college.

Websites like giftofcollege.com and more offer parents this ability to begin saving. A couple may ask their family to help contribute for their children’s future.

Say goodbye to the scanners and big named brand stores and welcome a unique, unconventional idea for a wedding registry.

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wedding emergency kit By ashely torres

P

icture perfect wedding days are what most brides imagine, but the truth is there are bound to be a few hiccups along the way. Stay ahead and be prepared for the unexpected with a wedding day emergency kit.

While both the bride and groom should have an emergency kit let’s not forget guests have emergencies too. Include decorative baskets in restrooms with anything a wedding guest might need.

band aids Batteries bobby pins Deodorant comb dress socks dryer sheets epi pen

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flats contact lens solution 30| OPERATION WEDDING DAY

hair ties

Stain removing pen

wedding emergency kit Jewelry lint roller Hand sanitizer lipstick

paper clips lighter

hair spray

mirror Mouthwash tissue paper Q-Tips mints

Pain medicine

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budget Tips for keeping your wedding budget

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By ashely torres

etween last minute expenses and unforeseen circumstances, it can be difficult to stay on a planned wedding budget.

There are some useful tips to stay on budget and while the idea may seem difficult, it all comes down to early planning.

The first thing a couple should do before any wedding planning is putting all the money for the wedding in a separate account, according to Lisa Colella, owner of Charmed Wedding and Event Planners in Jacksonville. By placing all the money in a separate account it is easier to keep track of the transactions. Couples should consider also using a credit card that has extra perks like mileage and other rewards.

As couples make a list of their planned expenses, is recommended that they budget a bit over the expected cost. If the flowers are going to cost $200 then the couple should consider setting aside $300 in the budget in the event something happens. In the end, if the couple didn’t run in to unexpected expenses they now have extra money for their honeymoon.

Be prepared for any extra charges that may have been overseen.When planning a budget, the bride and groom need to remember the little things that tend to be forgotten. Factor in the tips for the reception, the limo driver and hairstylist, according to Colella. Even those small things like ribbon, decorations, RSVP cards and more, can add up causing couples to go over their budgets.

“One of the biggest reasons why brides go over budget is because they forget to factor in the tips,” said Colella.

Another thing couples should consider are weather related expenses. If the wedding is taking place outdoors a bride and groom need to prepare for the unexpected. Budget in the need for umbrellas or a tent in the event of rain, consider the impending weather.

Through planning and over budgeting a couple can easily stay on budget and they may even walk away with extra money for their honeymoon.

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directory NC Aquarium (252) 247-4003 1 Roosevelt Blvd, Pine Knoll Shores www.ncaquariums.com

locations

Airlie Gardens (910) 798-7700 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington www.airliegardens.org

Ocean Isle Inn (910) 579-0750 www.oceanisleinn.com

Country Club of Crystal Coast (252) 726-1034 152 Oakleaf Dr., Pine Knoll Shores www.crystalcoastcc.com Duplin County Events (910) 275-0009 195 Fairgrounds Dr., Kenansville www.duplinevent.com Duplin County Tourism (910) 296-2181 165 Agriculture Dr., Ste B Kenansville www.uncorkduplin.com Emerald Isle Realty (877) 423-6420 8002-E Emerald Dr., Emerald Isle www.aseasidewedding.com Equine Country (910) 347-4511 1259 McAllister Road, Jacksonville www.equinecountryusa.com Home 2 Suites (910) 355-3500 139 Circuit Lane, Jacksonville Main Stay Suites / Suburban Extended Stay (910) 219-1238 2201 N Marine Blvd (910) 346-7759 1323 Lejeune Blvd

Tryon Palace (252) 639-3518 529 South Front Street, New Bern www.tryonpalace.org Wild Dunes Resort (888) 219-1362 www.wilddunesweddings.com

Catering

American Dream Cakes (910) 346-2347 1121 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville www.americandreamcakes.com K&S Cakes (910) 265-6779 101 Marion Ct, Jacksonville www.kandscakes.com MCCS Catering (910) 451-8224 Bldg 2615, Seth Williams Blvd www.mccslejeune.com/ catering White Oak Bakery (910) 347-2253 75 Balsam Road, Jacksonville www.whiteoakbakery.com

Clothing & Accessories

planners

Corner Jeweler 521 Yopp Rd, Ste #1 (910) 219-9797 233-B Western Blvd, Ste #1 (910) 219-GOLD www.thecornerjeweler.com

Charmed Wedding Events (910) 430-4013 www.charmedwedding andeventplanners.com

Diamond Shoal (252) 726-9582 4737-F Arendell Street, Morehead City www.diamondshoaljewelers.com

Coastal Petals (252) 764-2761 416 Cedar Point Blvd, Cedar Point www.coastalpetals.com

Margolis Mens Store (910) 455-3797 1140 Western Blvd, Jacksonville www.margolismensstore.com Sovella’s (910) 333-8197 415-B Western Blvd, Jacksonville

wellness

Carolina Pines Med Spa (910) 347-5444 825 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville www.cpmedspa.com It Works (910) 340-9126 bockwellnessgroup.com Wild Olive Salon (910) 325-7026 748 W Corbett Ave, Swansboro www.wildolivesalon.com Wilmington Plastic Surgery (800) 646-9308 www.wilmingtonplasticsurgery.com

Florists

music

Loonetoonz DJ (910) 382-5376 119 Lakewood Dr., Jacksonville www.loonetoonz.com

photography

MoJo of Jacksonville (910) 265-2849 www.mojoofjacksonville.com

miscellaneous

H&R Block www.hrblock.com Spirited Art (910) 939-4348 461 Western Blvd, Ste 118 Jacksonville www.myspiritedart.com/ jacksonville Wine & Design (910) 219-3943 1006-B Henderson Dr., Jacksonville www.WineAndDesignUS. com/Jacksonville

photo by rachel smith photography

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