Operation Wedding Day Summer 2013

Summer 2013| Free

Bridesmaids dresses

DIY Decor Proposal ideas

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4 Proposal Ideas 6 Engagement ring alternatives 8 Heaps of headpieces 10 Bridal Bootcamp Tone up for the big day

12 Choosing the location 16 real wedding Ric & Rebecca

18 How to

Ask your bridesmaids

19 Choosing your flowers 20 DIY Invitations 24 Engagement Photo tips 26 real wedding Spencer & TIna

27 Trash the Dress 28 Tempt your taste buds 29 Things every bride wish she knew 30 How to

Cover Tattoos

31 After Marriage

Photographer: Mark Bradley

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1122 Henderson Dr., Jacksonville, N.C. 28540 Publisher James M. Connors Managing Editor Ena Sellers Featured editors Amy Binkley Chantel Green Layout Editor Becca Keller Business Manager Rachel Picard Advertising Designer Hillary Bratton Sales Staff Bobby Stone Emily Kelley Teresa Moore Melissa Stone Shannon Sanchez Distribution Manager Dennis Fusco

disclaimer

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.

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operation wedding day 3

Proposal Ideas

By Amy Binkley | Photo by Ena Sellers

Make your proposal worth remembering

E

very girl dreams of telling a great story of how her husband-to-be popped the big question, but sometimes the nervous guy needs some guidance.

First Lts. Sarah Burns and Andrew Bolla from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune put their heads together to come up with fun, creative, romantic and even silly ways for men to propose to their lovely ladies.

1 2 3

Go to the beach and write your message in the sand. When she’s trying to decipher it get on one knee.

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4 OPERATION WEDDING DAY

Create a scavenger hunt with the last clue setting you up for success.

Take her to the archery range on base.

Have the ring hanging from an arrow on the target and tell her you hit the mark when you found her.

2 4 6

Hike to the top of a mountain and ask when you reach the peak.

4 1 3 5 7 8

Go shoe shopping. Kneel to help her with her footwear, and while you’re bent down, pull out the ring, tell her she’s a perfect fit for you and ask her to be yours.

Spell it out using pepperoni on pizza.

Put the question on the bottom of an ice cream bowl. She’ll already be happy after a sweet treat, and this will put her over the top.

Head to the beach where you’ve used seashells to spell out the question.

Go all out and ask at the Eiffel Tower.

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Put it in a fortune cookie.

Make a cute YouTube video.

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engagement rings

By Chantel Green

N

ot every woman dreams of having a crystal clear, baseball sized diamond weighing down her left ring finger for the rest of her life. It fits the bill for some, but alternatives to diamonds may be just the right choice for another.

The vast options range in size, shape and price, but the deciding factor lies with the woman behind the ring. Whether you’re a future fiancé searching for a unique engagement ring or a lady looking for the perfect ring in your future, the decision depends on a variety of factors, but ultimately becomes easier with knowledge of the viable choices.

If you want an alternative stone as a symbol of love and commitment, a previous connection adds even more meaning.

Perhaps a family heirloom stands as a reminder of a close relative, therefore choosing a stone from that treasure serves as a way to honor their memory.

If no connections to a certain stone exist, then it comes down to the preferences of the ring’s owner. Regardless of taste or sentimental value, becoming famil-

iar with the options helps narrow down choices.

The blue sapphire, made popular by royalty, stands as a classic choice for an engagement ring.

The stone was recently brought back into the limelight when Duchess Kate Middleton accepted Princess Diana’s sapphire ring from Prince Harry, but sapphires have long been found in family heirlooms.

Recently increasing in popularity are rings made of moissanite, a very rare mineral found in a variety of places including meteorites. This ring choice accommodates a smaller budget, while maintaining beauty and sophistication.

Joining moissanite in recent trends, the morganite stone is a peach colored beryl, a group containing more familiar gems such as emeralds and aquamarines.

See Rings on page 29

6 operation wedding day

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OPERATION WEDDING DAY

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By Chantel Green Photo by Kali Lu Photo

T

he runway continuously produces designers crossing the lines of tradition, but today’s bride is seemingly more aware than ever of the runway scene and exclusive trends.

If you aren’t the daughter of an old-fashioned and traditional family, you probably know someone who unwillingly placed a chapel length veil on her head before walking down the aisle to The Wedding March. There is no wrong in tradition and some women wouldn’t have it any other way, but what about the others who are willing to push the limits of the conventional bride?

A new wave of brides recently emerged saying no to veils, and instead opting for a birdcage, pin or nothing at all on their big day. The abundant choices can intimidate even the most nonchalant bride, because the headpiece stands true as a make it or break it accessory. If poorly executed, a seemingly small detail can turn into a wedding nightmare.

Examining popular headpiece choices, the veil represents a tradition dating back to biblical times, symbolizing the unveiling

of a woman to her new husband. Although considered old-fashioned, the veil has changed dramatically throughout history and today can be found in any color, length, style or fabric. The variety of veils brings the headpiece into a more modern-day light, and allows the contemporary bride to please a traditional family without compromising her own style.

The birdcage veil, typically made from netting and tulle, recently made a comeback from past times. This headpiece satisfies some elements symbolized by traditional veils, while allowing the bride to bring a new energy to bridal tradition. Many brides who label themselves as “retro” tend to lean toward birdcage veils, because they represent a compilation of old and new. Just like the traditional veil, a birdcage veil is fit to be tied with nearly every wedding gown.

A newcomer to the bridal headpiece group, the flower pin’s popularity is fairly new to the bridal world. The trend spread like wildfire and many brides continue to don a dainty flower over a veil on their wedding day. Understandably, it seems the outdoor brides took to the trend more than others. Planning an outdoor wedding presents challenges and the weather can never be predicted. A veil could cause several problems during an outdoor wedding including overheating the bride, a guest stepping on a floor-length veil, or the veil falling victim to the natural elements of the

See Headpieces on page 28 8 operation wedding day

Something old, new, borrowed and blue

By Chantel Green

A

particular wedding rhyme undoubtedly enters the minds of countless brides in preparation for their big day, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.”

This simple saying affects even the least superstitious of brides, and many haven’t the slightest idea the meaning behind this Victorian rhyme.

Legend has it if you wear four specific articles on your wedding day, you and your spouse will live happily ever after with success and great fortune following throughout your lives.

The first item the rhyme urges brides wear is something old. The old artifact represents the couples commitment to remaining close with their families. Many believe good fortune will only follow if a bride wears something old from a family member, but contemporary brides often discredit this suggestion.

Following something old, something new must be on the bride as she approaches her soon-to-be husband.

The new article represents the unity of two people as one in marriage and

bestows many blessings on their new lives.

Something borrowed for the bride represents the love of her family members, as they lend her an item of particular importance to them.

Lastly, something blue represents fidelity and loyalty to one another throughout life and into eternity.

Wearing something blue represents the giving of one soul to another in selflessness, and promising to care for them through the worst and best of times.

These four items are essential on any wedding day, no matter the legend behind the rhyme, but it can be challenging to find each item and tie it into your overall look. The hunt for good fortune doesn’t need to intimidate brides and a few simple tricks help lessen the stress.

Although it seems the simplest of the four, finding something old proves challenging for many soonto-be brides. The simplest path to finding something old involves exploring family history in search of a heirloom. A family heirloom is an incredibly sentimental way to honor your family and satisfy the suggestions laid out by the age-old rhyme.

Reaching a decision for the third

item in the old rhyme typically comes with greater ease than the other three, because women often buy an assortment of items for their bridal look.

Perhaps the words which speak directly to the hearts of many brides is the last of the four essentials in the wedding day cliché. When the big day comes, you will float down the aisle while all details fade into abyss, no longer bearing any significance. On the other hand, the something blue from this old tale represents the most important, yet often forgotten element of the day – the commitment of yourself to your soul mate.

All planning, color schemes and cake selections will seem miniscule in comparison to the vows spoken between the two of you. By honoring an old legend and wearing something blue; you reiterate the eternal promise of love and loyalty to the most important person in your life.

In the end, the old tale simply serves as a reminder to what our hearts should feel before stepping into a new life as one in marriage.

The legend may be blind superstition, but its undeniable impact remains after several centuries.

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By Amy Binkley | Photo by Ena Sellers

T

oning up for the big day is near the top of most brides’ to-do lists but getting started can be a challenge. Some effort is better than no effort, and even if a full-body transformation seems too lofty a goal, the little things make a big difference.

There’s a good reason doctors recommend 30 minutes of cardio training three to four times a week. It speeds up your metabolism, burns more calories than strength training, helps you sleep better and can make you feel more alert and energetic. In short, it’s the best way to lose weight in a healthy way.

Start slowly. Set your alarm 30 minutes early, head outside or hop on the treadmill,

and walk, jog or run. Many programs, like Couch to 5K, will guide you through weeks of training to increase your endurance and speed. Get your heart pumping so you can run down the aisle.

Your arms will be on full display during your wedding and captured forever in pictures of the big day. Get some quick definition in your upper body by doing a few strength exercises every day. Pushups, whether on your toes or your knees, are classic moves to tone up your arms.

Try doing one set of 10 push-ups before each meal. Want more of a challenge?

Place your hands in a triangle on the floor and touch your nose to the ground. You’ll feel the burn in your triceps, shoulders and back after only a few.

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Reign in your

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re you excited about registering for gifts but have no idea where to start?

The temptation to add an outrageous number of items to your wedding wish list may have your palms itching, but having some focus for your shopping adventure will help fill your home with items you need, and some you want, for your future.

Plus, your guests want to give you gifts, but not everyone can afford to buy $500 napkin rings. Avoid causing your friends and family to go into sticker shock by including a wide-range of gifts with prices that can meet most budgets.

Hand your hubby-to-be the scanning gun and check off these essential wedding registry items. Remember, these are guidelines and not all-inclusive. And if you feel the need to add in a garlic crusher or glow-in-the-dark stars for your guest room, go ahead and do it just for fun.

10 to 12 formal and/or casual place settings (dinner, salad, dessert plates, bowls, etc.)

1 salad bowl 1 set of salt and pepper shakers 1 butter dish 1 cake stand 2 pitchers 12 5-piece formal and/or casual settings 1 set of serving utensils 1 soup ladel

2 wooden spoons 2 spatulas 1 whisk 1 cast-iron skillet 2 casserole dishes 2 non-stick baking sheets 1 pizza pan 1 rectangular cake pan 2 round cake pans 1 pizza stone 1 set of measuring cups 1 standing mixer

1 hand mixer 1 blender 1 coffee maker 1 crockpot 2 sets of sheets (fitted and flat) 1 winter comforter 1 summer duvet 1 mattress pad 4-6 bath towels, hand towels, washcloths 2 bath mats 1 shower curtain

By Amy Binkley

1 wastebasket 1 hamper 1 iron 1 ironing board 1 vacuum Variety of cleaning supplies 1 toolkit 1 power drill 1 electric screwdriver 1 grill 1 set of grilling tools (tongs, slotted turner, basking brush)

operation wedding day 11

the perfect

Location

T

he importance of the location where you say “I Do” cannot be overlooked. Luckily, coastal North Carolina is overflowing with pictureperfect wedding locations for every style and budget.

Base

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune boasts several ideal locations for your wedding. A sponsor is required for brides and grooms planning to wed on Onslow Beach, but no permit must be obtained. Marston Pavilion and The Officers’ Wives’ Club are open for receptions, but must be reserved by a sponsor. Base venues can and will work with the bridal party to plan catering for the event and will also help cater receptions held elsewhere on base.

Church

For a traditional bride, a church wedding may be the way to go. Whether you are looking for a large church or a small chapel, churches come in all shapes and sizes, and are sure to fit your needs. Many churches have their own rules regarding weddings and receptions.

Regardless of where you choose to get married, your venue and reception area is sure to dazzle guests as they celebrate your special day with you.

Beach

For the beach-loving bride, a wedding by the sea may sound like the perfect way to start a new chapter of life. In Onslow County, a permit is not needed for a beach wedding, but it is a good idea to contact the Parks and Recreation department and make sure there is nothing else happening. It is also important to remember to account for the tide tables when planning your EDDINGS beach wedding. It would be tragic if NGAGEMENTS you arrived and set up chairs or a tent IRTHDAYS for your wedding USINESS ETREATS ceremony, only to return hours later and find they have

Bear Trail Golf Club E

B

W

B

R We will enjoy hosting your perfect day full of magical memories.

444 Harris Creek Rd. Jacksonville, NC (910) 346-8160 www.beartrailgolf.com info.beartrailgolf@gmail.com 12 operation wedding day

Open Aperture Photography

been swept out to sea.

Plantation Plantation weddings are popular during the warm North Carolina springs and summers. Steeped in history, coastal N.C. has various plantation locations to choose from, all of which boast modern necessities to make ensure a positive experience.

Gardens Memorial Gardens of Jacksonville is open for weddings, but must be reserved to ensure availability. Some parks and gardens will require a marriage license, while others do not. Some parks and gardens will require a marriage license, while others do not.

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Roses are ravishing, violets are too, but maybe traditional just isn’t for you

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normous flower bouquets aren’t for everyone on their wedding day and some may not want flowers at all. Thankfully, many designers understand this and options for non-traditional wedding bouquets are easy to find, or can even make one yourself.

For the bride who loves simplicity, a wheat bouquet is a beautiful option. While wheat makes a statement on its own, an increasingly popular trend adds pieces of lavender in the bouquet as well. These bouquets are also budget-friendly, and wheat can be bought in bulk. Wheat bouquets will add a touch of unique simplicity to the look of a nontraditional bride.

Brooch bouquets are perfect for a whimsical bride. If the bride’s grandmother or mother collected brooches, it’s also a great way to honor them. The trend spiked in popularity when country music star, Miranda Lambert

By Chantel Green | Photo by Jerry Yoon Photographers

carried a bouquet of brooches as she walked down the aisle toward Blake Shelton. Not only is this bouquet trend distinctive, but it can also be created on a tight budget. Clicking through thousands of ideas on www.pinterest.com should get the creative wheels turning.

There are abounding options for the rustic bride, but a bouquet of sticks really fits the bill. The rustic bride’s style isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but she finds beauty in the smallest pieces of Mother Nature.

This bouquet idea may be the most budgetfriendly around, as gathering sticks and eloquently piecing them together doesn’t cost a penny. However, the ways to give a bouquet of sticks femininity are limitless.

The simplistic way of incorporating an overlooked piece of nature into a timeless event will wow guests and always be remembered.

No matter which bouquet you choose, the novelty will fade away. The importance is in choosing what style is right for you.

Bridesmaids from page 18 way to show them you care.

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Shower them with jewelry

Send your gal pals a card from a novelty paper goods site and include a piece of jewelry from your favorite designer, making sure that each piece you gift flows well together. Inside the card, ask them to wear the piece of jewelry on your wedding day as they stand by your side. It will be a gift they never forget, and they can cherish for all time.

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Order hangers in which the wire is twisted to say bridesmaid. Send these hangers via snail mail in pretty packaging complete with a card. On the card write, “I’d love it if you’d hang with me on my wedding day.” Your friends will be able to use these hangers for clothes after your wedding, or have them framed for a keepsake.

You know your girlfriends would be at your side no matter how you asked them, but taking the time to be creative shows them just how much they mean to you. You only get to do this once, so make it count!

phy

Skyla Walton Photogra graphy

Brandon Kidd Photo

By Chantel Green

Y

ou don’t want to be the bride adding to a collection of hideous bridesmaid dresses in the back of your best friend’s closet, but how do you choose a timeless look your friends can wear again and again?

Two recent trends have made this decision easier, and matching gowns are a thing of the past.

If you’ve picked out a color scheme for your wedding, you can easily transition that to your bridesmaids’ dresses.

Choosing a different color dress for each of your friends will allow them to remain unique, instead of looking like your minions. It’s always thoughtful if the bride keeps the budget for her maids in mind, so take them to your favorite clothing store and pick

out dresses they can afford and will be able to wear after your wedding.

One of the easiest options for bridesmaid dresses is the color black. The timeless color looks great on everyone and will keep your girlfriends from feeling uncomfortable.

If you just ask your bridesmaids to pick out a black dress, make sure you give them a fabric to stick to. The dresses will flow better together if the fabric is consistent. Your friends will love you for this choice, as they will be allowed to choose a style of dress which suits their body type, instead of wearing a brightly colored dress they would rather burn than wear again.

Bridesmaids’ dresses are an obstacle for every bride and her friends, so by making it easier for the girls you love, you make it easier on yourself. operation wedding day 15

Ric & Rebecca Once upon a time, this couple took to the shores of Eastern North Carolina to pledge their love and devotion in front of friends and family. The sand and the sea made for a picturesque scene. Their coastal-themed wedding and reception kept the groom tied to his Navy roots while the bride walked away with her prince charming under a canapy of sparkles and well wishes.

Wedding Ingredients Venue: The Ocean Club Photography: Open Aperture Photography Flowers: Forget-Me-Not Flowers & Gifts Catering: Carlton’s Wedding Planner: A Seaside Wedding & Events

16 OPERATION WEDDING DAY

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operation wedding day 17

How to ask your

Story by Chantel Green | Photo by Ena Sellers

A

heart of gold, good looks too, I couldn’t ask for a better bridesmaid than you.

You’re on your way to becoming Mrs. McDreamy and you couldn’t tie the knot without your best girls by your side. They are amazing so you need to find an equally amazing way to ask them to stand up at the altar with you on the big day.

Candyland

Sweets are the weakness

of many; use this against your friends! You’ve had a ring presented to you for a very important question, but now it’s time to turn the tables because you have an important question to ask.

Buy a paper box at a craft store and put a candy ring inside. On the box, write that it’s your turn to ask a question. When they open the box, the words written on the inside should read, “Will you be my bridesmaid?” It’s a cute, simple and affordable See Bridesmaids on page 14

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By Amy Binkley | Photo by Ena Sellers

S

ince they were little girls, brides-to-be practiced walking down the aisle toward the man of their dreams clutching invisible bouquets of flowers. Now that they’re all grown up, love has bloomed, and it’s time to make those imaginary petals a reality.

Today’s brides have several choices when it comes to their bouquets.

While bunches like sticks, feathers or fans are popular offbeat alternatives, flowers remain the top choice for ladies’ bridal bundle.

The options of various petals is a daunting task, but once you’ve made your decision on the ingredients, the recipe for your perfect bouquet is easy to follow.

Nosegay

These types of bouquets work with whatever buds you choose

choosing your flowers

from roses to peonies. With the stems exposed and bound together with ribbons or other material, the densely packed flowers create a round shape usually 16 to 18 inches in diameter.

Posy

Similar to the nosegays, posy bouquets also form a round shape but on a smaller scale and with less of the stems showing. The understated beauty of the posy’s compliment’s the bride’s overall look without overpowering her.

They are also popular choices for budget-savvy brides.

Cascading

Also known as shower bouquets, these arrangements make a bold statement as the flowers seem to spill gracefully from the bride’s hands in the shape of a tear drop.

The cascading look works with most flowers and is typically found at very formal, big-scale weddings.

Presentation or sheaf

Beauty queens around the world are familiar with these bouquets

consisting of bundled flowers, typically long-stemmed like roses or lilies, which are carried in the arms instead of in the hands of the bride. While the grouping can be as simple or full as you’d like, the look is very dramatic.

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By Chantel Green | Photo by Kate Elizabeth

F

orget the fancy wedding planning because you know yourself, fiancĂŠ and guests better than anyone. It sounds great, taking complete control by creating a do-ityourself wedding, but in the midst of the moments things may get hectic. Instead of opting for a complete do-ityourself wedding, choose a few details to put your personal touch on.

Get organized, gather ideas and get going.

These important details are often overlooked, and some say it may not be necessary anymore. If you are not budging on tradition, order a printable from a site like www.etsy.com. You will receive a file with the save-the-dates and invitations, and then you can take the file to a local printing shop to have them finished.

Instead of using a calligraphy specialist, practice your own handwriting techniques and address your guests yourself.

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20 OPERATION WEDDING DAY

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By Chantel Green | Photos by Torrie Rose Photography

T

he next easy, DIY project for your guests is wedding favors. If you take a trip to your local craft store, or browse the Internet, you will find small, wooden hearts which you need to buy in surplus. You’ll want to buy about 20 to 50 more than the amount of guests attending. Next, buy magnetic strips to place on the back of each heart. Lastly, decorate the front of the heart to suit the theme of your wedding. You can paint the heart, use wood stain pens, use craftsman pens to write on the hearts or you can even shrink photos of you and your fiancé to place on the hearts. At your wedding, use a box or basket to hold the heart magnets with a sign nearby reading, “From our hearts to yours, thank you for sharing our special day.”

Sure, becoming a DIY bride can take a lot of extra work, but the personal touch creates a wedding than none will be quick to forget. The elements of your wedding will remain in their hearts and minds forever, and you will have saved a hefty penny in the process.

Operation wedding day 21

By Chantel Green

T

Photo by Torrie Rose Photography

Photo by Wednesday Custom Design for Green Wedding Shoes

22 operation wedding day

he decorations in a wedding can often be the most expensive and grueling part of the whole shebang. Why not make your life easier and pockets fuller?

One of the easiest ways to add a touch of class to a wedding is to add picture frames – without any pictures inside. This may sound out of the ordinary, but it can be done beautifully. Buy inexpensive frames of your choice from any craft store of your choice. Take the backs off the frames so you can see through them and bend back the hinges that keep the photos in place. If your wedding is outdoors, use fishing line to hang the assorted picture frames from a tree, at varying lengths. If your wedding is indoors, hang them on an old door or make them look as though they are floating through the room with fishing wire. Use your creativity and you’ll be amazed at what you can come up with.

Beverage stations are a must at weddings, especially those in the summer months. These are easily achievable without spending much money at all.

You can first take a plastic folding table and cover it with a fabric of your choice, burlap is a great option.

Next, purchase the needed number of beverage dispensers.Take into account how many different beverages you’d like to serve and the number of guests attending your wedding. Next, purchase as many mason jars needed for each guest. It may seem as though you’re spending a lot of money if you have a large guest list, but these jars are reusable – you can use them as glasses at your new home. Take a strip of chalkboard tape, put it on the front of every Mason jar and write each guests name in chalk. Use these as place tags according to where they will be sitting for the reception. They will have this glass to use at will, and will be able to visit your beverage station. The final detail is to add pictures of you and your soon-to-be husband to the table, along with any small decorations you may need.

Photos by EllenLeRoyPhotography.com

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operation wedding day 23

Engagement memories

By Amy Binkley | Photos by Ena Sellers

M

arriage isn’t the end of your fairytale, but it is another chapter.

Before you get consumed by all the plans of a wedding, tell your tale as a couple of crazy kids in love through pictures with engagement photos tailored to your personalities.

Gone are the days when fiancées were forced to stand stiffly behind their man with one arm draped over his shoulder.

Today’s couples are enjoying the engaged life, and welcoming everyone to see the makings of their love story.

For the sports fans

Do you and your betrothed like a good

24 Operation wedding Day

competition? Do you cheer for the same team or are you arch enemies of the sports world? Show your support for your teams, and each other, with a fun, action-packed session. Show triumph at the finish line, victory in the end zone or slide into home, and your significant other’s arms, while the camera catches ever candid shot.

For the beach bums

Coastal North Carolina has no shortage of prime locations for couples who fell in love among the waves. Dig your toes in the sand and stroll along your favorite beach at sunset. Steal a kiss under the pier. Make sandcastles. Just be you.

For the classic couple

If you’re the duo who dreams of the

y

Photo by Mark Bradle

romance of the good old days, a vintage photo session may be the perfect way to go. Throw in a few balloons, casual chic ensembles, and a background free from high rises, and you’ll be good to go. Find a park and take your turn on the swing set, or take a walk down one of the many trails aboard Marine Corps

Base Camp Lejeune. Your pictures will ooze with love and passion.

Your engagement photos should be about who you are as a couple so feel free to be as fun, romantic, serious or silly as you want. Whether you like riding your matching motorcycles at high speeds down the highway or enjoy

getting your geek on with superhero antics, show love exists in all sorts of styles.

Most photographers suggest taking engagement pictures no later than 6 months before the big day. The photos can be used for invitations, save-thedate cards and thank you notes.

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Spencer & Tina The Rotary Club of Swansboro served as the backdrop for this beautiful wedding featuring the gallantry of the Marine Corps from the swordsmen in their dress blues to the reception’s color scheme. After pledging to be always faithful, this Marine and his new wife lead their guests in a night of dancing and fun. Their topper made the cake cutting ceremony custom designed for them, displaying their love of motorcycles with a depiction of the couple riding away to their new lives together.

Wedding Ingredients Venue: The Rotary Club of Swansboro Photography: MMD Photography Flowers: Coastal Petals Catering: Special Events Catering Cake: Kim’s Cakes Wedding Planner: Total Package Events Band: Carolina Band

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Story by Chantel Green | Photo by Bryan Anderson

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our wedding gown is more than likely going to hang out in the back of a closet or in a storage attic until the end of time. The pictures will be something you cherish forever.

Spread some sand on your dress and have a blast at the beach. There are endless options at this location, but a favorite of many is the bride and groom lying in the surf in serenity.

An increasingly popular photography trend for this event is underwater shoots. The beauty and mystery of the water adds interest to the pictures and although the wedding dress is wet, it looks beautiful flowing through the water. If your husband is in the military, do not let him wear his uniform to this shoot rather ask him to wear a suit or a casual slacks and button-down shirt.

For the adventurous couple, splashing paint all over a pristine wedding dress would be a day to remember. Forget the cookiecutter Christmas cards, this couple can awe their friends and family with paint splattered everywhere.

Trashing the dress may seem a fad to many traditional brides, but the fun memories are worth ruining a dress you will never wear again.

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.

Call 888.219.1362or tovisit learn about special military wedding rates.

Call 888.219.1362 WildDunesWeddings.com to plan your Charleston wedding.

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By Amy Binkley | Photo by Ena Sellers

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uests look forward to not only seeing your wedding cake but having a slice. It might be pretty, but if it doesn’t taste good no one will remember it.

You’ll be hard pressed to please everyone’s taste buds, but you can shake things up with flavors they’ll enjoy and talk about long after the party is over.

Most bakeries offer different combinations of cake and cupcake flavors, fillings and icings so make your appointment and do some taste testing.

Experts suggest to not have more than two flavors to keep the options limited.

Here are some of the top requested cake flavors bakeries have seen over the past few years. Is yours on there?

1. Chocolate devil’s food cake with vanilla buttercream 2. Chocolate almond cake, chocolate ganache, and mocha buttercream 3. White cake with chocolate buttercream 4. White cake with vanilla buttercream and fruit (strawberries, raspberries, etc.)

5. Red velvet cake with cream cheese icing 6. Yellow cake with chocolate buttercream or ganache 7. Bananan cake with chocolate buttercream 8. Coconut cake with lime buttercream 9. Lemon cake with vanilla buttercream 10. Apple spice cake with caramel buttercream or brown sugar mousse.

Headpieces from page 8 setting. A flower or clip headpiece benefits the bride with an extravagant dress, because it allows for accessorizing without creating a clash in the overall look.

The limitless choices in bridal headpieces can definitely be off-putting, but going into the search with a specific type of adornment in mind can set you off in the right direction. First, consider you and your family’s values and assess how those beliefs affect your boundaries in choosing a headpiece. Next, consider the location of your

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wedding. An outdoor wedding greatly differs from a formal, chapel ceremony.

Wedding headpieces vary from traditional to completely unique options and the designers try to steer brides-to-be in certain directions, depending on the season. However, the most important aspect of this day is you. Regardless of trends or fads, choose what will best work for you. Go into the headpiece search knowing what works with your dress, belief system and personality, and you should have no trouble at all.

Photo by Kali Lu Photo

Things every bride wishes she knew before the wedding

By Amy Binkley

Hindsight is 20/20, and if the brides of the past could talk to the ones of the future, they might pass on a few lessons they learned from their big day.

Remember to eat.

Lots of ladies diet their way to their wedding day, but even more forget to eat before they walk down the aisle. Make sure to snack on something while you’re getting ready. You’ll be going at full speed once the ceremony begins, the reception kicks off and you greet everyone. A treat won’t kill you, but a grumpy attitude due to low blood sugar might turn you into Bridezilla.

Wedding dresses are hot.

Sure, you spent a lot of time choosing the perfect dress and all the accessories to go with,

on and under it. However, the heavy material combined with a constantly moving bride can make for some uncomfortable chaffing and lots of sweat. It’s not the most glamorous thing, but several brides wish they’d known to use baby powder or even chaffing gels on the insides of their legs to keep the pain at bay. Be proactive, and also consider putting a fan under your table at the reception. It can be your little secret.

Don’t slouch.

Americans have a tendency toward bad posture, and it’s never clearer than when you see your wedding pictures. Talk with your photographer beforehand so he or she can point out, in a respectful way, when you’re hunching your shoulders. Not only will you look

more flattering but you’ll strengthen your spine.

Not everything will be perfect… you’ll survive.

While your guests will appreciate your hand painted centerpieces, freshly cut flower bouquet and detailed playlist full of songs cued for every moment of the night, they’ll never notice the imperfections of your day. Don’t sweat the small stuff or lose sleep because something doesn’t go as planned. Twenty years down the road it’ll be something you laugh at.

Being married is better than being engaged.

No matter what little details didn’t come together or who wasn’t able to attend, at the end of the day, you’re married to the person you love. It doesn’t get better than that.

Rings from page 6 The dainty color derives from the presence of either manganese or cesium, and although morganite is a rarity, the cost of engagement rings of these stones remains considerably lower than others due to a lack of standardsized stones available for retail.

Both moissanite and morganite engagement rings stay in the spotlight on websites featuring designers who hand craft their jewelry.

Wrapping up a small amount of alternatives to diamond rings is the green emerald, a less common choice for engagement rings. Though rare to see an emerald on a woman’s ring finger, options for emerald rings are abundant. This ring would be the perfect choice for a woman who always pushes the edge with her style.

If a diamond remains as your stone of choice, there are many

ways to make the ring unique.

Other than your own custom design, vintage rings are a great option and a plethora of companies offer a large selection. Another viable option is a colored diamond rather than clear. The setting, band width and cut can make the ring unique.

Of course any stone can be used as a symbol of marriage, and even the trend of simple bands for women has emerged in

recent years. The ring is simply a representation of what you both know in your hearts to be true, but an alternative engagement ring will leave the right woman overjoyed.

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how to cover

Story by Amy Binkley

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our wedding is all about you so feel free to be who you are.

However, if you choose to keep your ink a little secret, here are some tips on how to hide your body art.

Invest in concealer – three shades to be exact. When choosing your cover-up, get the hue closest to your skin color as well as the two tones lighter than your skin Apply the lightest concealer to your tattoo first, followed by darker shade and finishing with the skin tone.. Blend the three with a concealer brush found at your local drug store. Be careful to keep the concealer only on your tattoo to avoid looking uneven.

If the three-shade paint job seems somewhat tedious, many makeup companies now sell specific tattoo concealers as part of their product lines.

Another item tattooed brides are swearing by are the liquid pantyhose. They typically come in several shades to accommodate for different skin tones, and they don’t smear or wear off easily. Remember to get the matte, not the bronzer, spray.

It’s your decision whether or not to cover up your everlasting ink, but if you choose not to display that butterfly or the Marine Corps logo next to your intricate lace beading, make sure you practice with products before the big day. Peek-a-boo tattoos might be an unwelcome surprise.

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Photo by Open Aperture Photography

now what?

Story by Chantel Green

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ongratulations, you’ve married into the military family. Now you have a to-do list which extends past that of an everyday bride. While changing your social security card, driver’s license, passport, and other legal documents is necessary, this guide will help with how to navigate the military requirements.

First you need to obtain several copies of your official marriage certificate. It is important that the certificate is an official copy, not just a copy they gave you when you went to get your marriage license. Your

husband will need to take one copy with him to register you into Defense Enrollment Eligibility Registration System (DEERS). It is also a good idea to have copies of your birth certificate for good measure.

You will automatically be enrolled into Tricare, but it will be a standard plan so you will be responsible for a co pay. If you want to upgrade to Tricare Prime, you can do that at the administration offices.

Dental insurance is not free, but through MetLife. The administrative offices are available to give you all needed information on this plan, including the cost.

Next, you will want to get your military dependent identification card. It is very simple to do all of this at one time if you have all the proper documents. Make sure you also take your social security card with you to the administrative offices.

Your husband will be eligible for housing allowance or on-base housing immediately after marriage.

The decision is up to the two of you on what will work best for you.

Once you have your military ID card, you are all set as a military dependent! Good luck and have fun navigating the military lifestyle.

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