Panorama Bride&Groom Magazine Fall/Winter 2016

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features

006 Planning your Big Day 012 Top Ten Wedding Catering Trends

by Christa Vagnozzi, www.TheKnot.com

The Panorama Magazine Wedding Edition

014 Ways to save on your Venue and Menu

by Amy Levin-Epstein, www.TheKnot.com

016 A Toast to the Bride & Groom 018 Unexpected ways to make your Destination Wedding Unforgettable 020 Six Tips for Planning your Wedding Photos like a Pro 022 Wedding Favors & Gifts everyone can feel good about 025 Finding the Perfect Fit 027 Shedding for the Wedding 029 Don’t Forget Mom! by Jolène M. Bouchon, www.brides.com 030 Secrets to Wedding Day Bliss provided by www.BendedKneeWeddings.com

032 What a Bride wants 035 Beat Wedding Planning Pressure 036 Tipping Cheat Sheet 038 DIY Wedding Ideas 040 It’s Time to TalkWills, Finances & Contracts 042 Setting the Tone Information provided by www.marthastewartweddings.com.

044 Top Wedding Cake Tips Provided by www.TheKnot.com

extras

007 Wedding Budget Planner 010 Let the Planning Begin!

A 12 Month Wedding Planning Timeline 026 Wedding Attire 101: The Gown 028 Wedding Attire 101: The Wedding Party 048 Advertisers Index

4 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

CEO/Publisher Larry Collum Advertising Account Executives Beverly Collum, Patty Collum, and Rich Lipinski Graphic Design Department Joan Palmer, Beth Kostanesky Office Manager Sandy Collum Social Media Coordinator Missy Nenstiel Panorama Bride&Groom Magazine 32 East Buttonwood Street Hazleton, PA 18201 Ph. 570-459-1010 • Fax 570-459-6004 www.panoramapa.com facebook.com/PanoramaMagazine

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This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from Panorama PA Inc. All rights in letters sent to Panorama Bride&Groom Magazine will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication in copyright purposes and as such as subject to a right to edit and comment editorially. Panorama Bride&Groom Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but can not be held responsible for consequences arising from errors or omissions. Panorama Bride&Groom Magazine is not responsible for advertising content: Any advertising claims are the sole responsibility of the advertisers. Name and contents. © 2016 Panorama Community Magazine.

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Planning Your Big Day How to stick to your Wedding Budget Why do so many couples go over their wedding budget?

When it comes to weddings, the budget is everything. The budget determines what you can afford to spend on each service or item related to your wedding. It’s about getting the things you want for the price you want to pay. So why do so many couples break the budget while planning their weddings? The answer is a combination of unrealistic expectations and poor planning. This article will tell you why couples break their budget and how you can stick to yours.

Scenario: Jane Sets her Wedding Budget

When Jane and her fiancé began planning their wedding, the budget was one of the first things they established.

After looking at their finances, they decided on a budget of $10,000 because it was an amount they felt comfortable spending. Next Jane decided to go to a bridal show to start pricing out her wedding vendors. She had always dreamed of having her wedding at a swanky reception hall with all of her friends and family. She would wear a designer gown and have a huge bouquet of calla lilies. She hadn’t really thought about how much these things would cost, but she figured that $10,000 would be more than enough. It turned out that the venue she wanted was $4000, her dress would be about $2500, and if she wanted to invite everyone on her guest list, she would end up spending over $6,000 on catering and beverages. She was already well over her proposed budget and still had a long list of services that she needed to book.

Setting a Realistic Budget All of the “little things” that make up a wedding tend to add up very quickly. Often the bride and groom have no idea what each item costs until they begin speaking with wedding vendors. That’s when sticker shock sets in and the couple realizes that they either need to re-consider their budget or re-consider their wedding expectations.

When setting your budget, ask yourself “Where did this number come from?” Did you do any research to see what the average wedding costs in your area? Have you priced out venues, dresses, flowers, catering, etc.? While your budget needs to be an amount that you feel comfortable with, it should also be a reflection of the wedding you want. Don’t try to plan a $25,000 wedding on a $10,000 budget. It just won’t happen.

The best way to plan a wedding budget is to first decide what kind of wedding you want. Small or large, fancy or informal, etc. If you want a large, fancy wedding you’re obviously going to spend more than if you have a small, informal ceremony.

Try to decide what things are most important to you before you start coming up with numbers. Once you know what you want, try to figure out how much it will cost. Ask other brides

6 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

in your area what they paid and call vendors to see how their packages are priced. Consulting with a wedding planner is also a great way to get realistic advice on what you can get for your money. (Note: You don’t have to hire a wedding planner to organize your wedding, but many planners will offer consultation services for a small fee. This can be very beneficial, as you will get a pro’s advice without having to spend big bucks for them to plan your entire wedding.)

Now that you know what you want, and have an idea of what things cost, you can plan your wedding budget. Use a wedding budget planning worksheet to calculate the amount you’ll spend on each service/vendor. This is usually an exercise in compromise. You might not be able to get the fancy reception hall and the designer gown, but you might be able to get one of the two. You’ll need to balance what you want and what you can afford. It’s ok to spend more on the things that are important to you, but then you’ll need to compensate by spending less on other items. Whatever you do, don’t spend more money than you have set aside for each item.

This is a sure way to break your budget.

Don’t Get Caught Up In the Details

Wedding vendors are experts in up-selling. They know you’re excited, and they will tell you about all of the various options they offer. You’ll go in with a price in mind, but when the wedding vendor starts showing you all of the bells and whistles, it is very easy to get wrapped up in the details and lose site of your budget. When the vendor gives you a price, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Tell the vendor what you want to spend and ask them to create a package that fits within that amount. Most vendors who are worth their salt will gladly accommodate your request. If a vendor sticks up his nose and says something along the lines of “I don’t think we can help you” then you need to find a different vendor.

Don’t Get In Over Your Head

Too many couples are deep in debt because of their wedding expenses. They spent more than they could afford, and now instead of enjoying the newlywed experience, they are stressed about the bills they have to pay. Remember that your wedding is one day. It is an important milestone and it’s OK to throw a big celebration, but it shouldn’t leave you in debt up to your eyeballs. Spending a few extra dollars here and there can quickly turn your sensible budget into a monster expense. Create a plan, set your budget, and stick to it.

Don’t Stress

Remember, planning your wedding should be fun. It might be stressful at times, but always keep the big picture in mind.

You’re doing this to celebrate your love for one another. It’s not about the things you can or can’t have. It’s about sharing your special day with the people you love.

TOTAL BUDGET: PLANNING Wedding planner/coordinator

Wedding VENDOR ESTIMATE

BUDGET PLANNER

BUDGETED AMOUNT

AMOUNT SPENT

BRIDAL ATTIRE Wedding dress Wedding dress alterations Veil/headpiece Jewellery and/or accessories Shoes Garter Lingerie and hosiery

Hair styling

Manicure and/or pedicure

Save the date cards

Invitations

STATIONERY

TOTAL

Other

Accessories (watch, cufflinks)

Tie or bowtie

Tuxedo or suit

GROOM'S ATTIRE

TOTAL

Makeup

Reply cards

TOTAL

Bridal binder/planning bible

Thank you cards

FLORAL

Going away outfit/wardrobe change

Postage

Bridal bouquet

Other

Ceremony program

Bridesmaids bouquet

Wedding inspiration magazines

Reception menu cards

Marriage preparation course

Place cards

Groom's boutonniere

Cake table arrangements

Cocktail table arrangements

Reception table arrangements

Pew marker arrangements

Altar arrangements

Ring bearer boutonniere

Flower girl petals/bouquet

Parental boutonnieres/corsages

Groomsmen boutonnieres

Guest book & pen Map & directions Seating plan display Other TOTAL PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO Engagement photography Wedding photography Videography

Photo album(s) for parents

Photo album(s) for bride & groom

Photo prints for thank you card enclosures

TOTAL

Other

Deliver and set-up

Vase rentals

Toss bouquet

Head table arrangements

Other

Photo prints for bride & groom

TOTAL

BUDGETED AMOUNT

VENDOR ESTIMATE

AMOUNT SPENT

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 7

8 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016 Rehearsal dinner Hotel accommodations Other: TOTAL:

Cocktail hour beverages

Other

TOTAL

OTHER:

TOTAL:

Other

Flower girl gifts

Ring bearer gifts

Groomsmen gifts

Bridesmaid gifts

Gifts for out-of-town guests

FAVORS & GIFTS

TOTAL:

Other

Centerpieces

Decorations

Liability insurance

Special occasion permit

Bartender fee

Lighting

Wedding favours/giveaway

Dance floor rental

Dance floor sound system

Reception musician, DJ and/or entertainment

Late night snack/buffet

Cake topper

Cake serving set

Cake cutting fees

Cake

Non-alcoholic beverages

Liquor

Glassware rental

Reception meal and service

Table and chair rentals

Cocktail hour musicians

Cocktail food and service

COCKTAIL HOUR

TOTAL

Other

Taxi services

Fuel

Car cleaning

Car decorations

Drivers' tip

Carriage rental

Valet parking

Transport for out-of-town guests

Limousine or car rental for bridal party

Limousine or car rental for bride & groom

TRANSPORTATION

TOTAL

Other

Sand/unity candle

Ceremony music/musician

Ring pillow

Confetti or other post-ceremony favour

Officient fee/church donation

Church/venue fee

Ceremony rehearsal fee

Marriage license

CEREMONY

TOTAL

Groom's ring

Venue rental

Bride's ring

AMOUNT SPENT RECEPTION

VENDOR ESTIMATE

WEDDING RINGS

BUDGETED AMOUNT

BUDGETED AMOUNT

VENDOR ESTIMATE

AMOUNT SPENT

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Let The Planning Begin!

Here’s what to do, when, on your way to the alter

A 12 Month Wedding Planning Timeline • Plan your honeymoon • Finalize the guest list

• Save the date!

• Announce your engagement and throw a party • Prepare guest list • Create a wedding website • Agree on budget • Book the venue • Start your gift registry • Begin selecting vendors • Select your bridal party • Finalize and secure an officiant • Take engagement photos

• Say “Yes” to the dress! Schedule fittiings for six weeks and one to two weeks before the wedding • Hire and secure all of your vendors • Begin booking accommodations for your guests • Order your cake • Book your photographer, musicians, cake baker and florist.

Choose floral arrangements • Select wedding stationery and invitations • Mail save-thedate cards

• Buy wedding bands • Shop for and order bridesmaids dresses • Mail invitations • Select wedding favors • Reserve any rental equipment like tables, chairs and tent if you are marrying at home or in an unfurnished space • Finalize catering menu • Dress the groomsmen • Confirm all vendors • Plan the ceremony rehearsal and dinner

• Purchase any accessories to go with your dress • Write your vows

• Book and confirm day of transportation • Apply for marriage license • Attend your bridal shower • Schedule all fittings and alteration appointments • Decide on hair and makeup styles

• Finalize floor and seating plans • Get final headcount of all attendees • Meet with DJ or band to discuss song list • Have final dress fitting • Start any self-grooming that needs to be done • Confirm photographer • Confirm and pack for honeymoon • Pick up and organize all wedding-day attire • Attend your bachelor/bachelorette party

• Get pampered • Rehearse ceremony • Give your attendants their gifts • Give gifts to your parents and each other • Have rehearsal dinner • Relax and get a good night’s sleep!

• Eat breakfast (you may forget to eat later) • Get your hair and makeup done • Get dressed • Hand off your wedding rings to the best man. Have him hold the officiant’s fee to deliver after the ceremony • Pop in a breath mint, smile, relax and get ready to say “I do!”

• Freeze the top layer of your wedding cake to save for your one year anniversary • Have your dress and formalwear cleaned and/or preserved and return all rentals • Send your pros thank-you notes and submit online reviews.

• Thank your attendants for standing by you on the day and during the planning • Finish up thank you notes for gifts • File a change of name (if you are planning to do so)

Top 10 Wedding Catering Trends Want your reception to be unforgettable?

Here’s a little secret: It’s all about the food!

With the delicious surge in food-centric media (think: celebrity chefs, the Food Network, foodie Instagram accounts, Pinterest boards and blogs) today’s couples are tapped into the food and beverage industry more than ever. For many, this means the standard chicken or beef just won’t cut it when it comes to planning a wedding menu. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your wedding bill of fare, read on! Here are 10 of the hottest catering trends that’ll wow your crowd and please every palate.

1. Play With Color

Color is a crucial element in the coordination of wedding linens, flowers and bridal party attire. So why not in planning the menu? Many chefs are coming up with unique ways to infuse color into food to match the couple’s signature hues. Don’t worry—we’re not talking about green mashed potatoes. If you’re having a black-and-white wedding, consider serving ice cream sandwiches, Oreos or black-and-white cookies for dessert. Bring this contrasting color scheme full circle with a naked or half-naked cake of rich dark chocolate and velvety white buttercream (feast your eyes on some black-and-white naked cake examples here!). If you love the complementary duo of red and green, ask your caterer if they can whip up shot glasses filled with layers of edamame and lobster trifle, or tuna tartare served in wasabi sesame-seeded wontons for cocktail hour.

2. Break Out the Bubbly

by a chef who can plate your meal and suggest what to pair it with. One popular station is a ceviche bar, which offers a variety of fish in savory cones. If seafood isn’t your first choice, how about a fondue cart? Warm cheddar ale and balsamic gorgonzola pots with charcuterie, pickled veggies, fresh fruit and assorted bread options for dipping is delicious.

4. Trim the Fat

Let your guests play bartender. Ask your caterer to assemble a display at cocktail hour with your drink of choice, the requisite glassware, spirits and any special mix-ins. We can never resist champagne at a wedding, so our favorite go-to is a bubbly bar. Offer champagne, prosecco and sparkling California wine. Also include a variety of liqueurs, such as Chambord, Midori, schnapps and St. Germain, plus freshsqueezed juices like grapefruit, cranberry and orange. Lay out bowls with freshly pureed peaches, white grapes and pears (hello, Bellinis!). Lastly, don’t forget fresh fruit slices, berries and edible blooms to garnish. These personalized satellite bars are the hottest new way to serve unforgettable refreshments.

Gone are the days when hosting a large crowd was synonymous with serving heavy food like rich cream sauces, fatty double pork chops and deep-fried apps. Options for healthy and light, yet flavorful and satisfying, fare are practically endless. For the cocktail hour, think small: antipasto skewers with a grape tomato, ball of mozzarella and olive drizzled with fresh basil oil, or mini lettuce wraps with chicken in a savory Thai peanut sauce. Get that sweet-savory pop with a pecan, raisin and apple crostini speckled with honey and tangy blue cheese. Even though these bites are healthy, you might be surprised to hear they won’t break the bank; you’re actually spending less since you’re incorporating a lot more fresh produce into your menu.

3. Spring Into Action

5. Go Green

Custom cocktail bars aren’t the only way to let guests personalize their reception treats. Caterers are creating “interactive culinary kiosks” for the cocktail hour and reception.

Not only are they fun and oh-so tasty, but these food stations also allow for easy guest interaction and better flow throughout your party. This type of food service is perfect for a cocktail reception where guests eat, mingle, dance or just hang out in a lounge area all night long. Taking the traditional buffet one step further, each station is attended

12 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

As organic and sustainable ingredients become more available, brides and grooms want to have at least one green course on their wedding menus, and caterers are responding. These days, you can serve something as simple as a fresh salad made with organic greens to start, or free-range chicken with organic string beans for your main. And going green doesn’t stop with the food. Many winemakers and spirit producers are venturing into organic beverage options, so you should ask your caterer about adding organic

tequilas and vodkas or even biodynamic wines to your bar menu. This is one eco-friendly trend that’s here to stay.

6. Opt for Family-Style

More couples are requesting that their reception meals be served family style to take the stuffiness out of a sit-down meal. Guests can interact casually as they pass around gorgeous dishes, which means more mingling and a better chance that everyone will have an unforgettable night.

One thing to consider if you’re opting for a family-style meal is to rethink massive centerpieces. You’ll need more room for all of those serving dishes, so let the food and beautiful plates star as your décor. Not convinced? Picture heaping platters of bright-red steamed lobster, flank steak rolled with portobello mushrooms, and Emmentaler cheese nestled in magenta and white Swiss chard, along with a colorful dish of vegetable risotto.

7. Get Global Goods

In food, as in life, it’s all in the details. Those small yet game-changing details tend to be in the ingredients lots of caterers are using to give dishes that extra-special flair.

Black lava sea salt or wasabi salt, Middle Eastern herbs and tahini sauces are being used in dishes to add a zing and richness to the flavor. And although you may not quite be able to put your finger on the specific ingredient, one thing you’ll recognize is how happy your taste buds are— that’s what will get people talking about your wedding.

Even if your guests won’t remember what flowers were in your bouquet, they’ll definitely remember the exceptional food.

8. Try a Taste

Tasting menus are a foodie favorite, and they’ve found their way into weddings too. So what exactly is a tasting menu and how would it work at your wedding? You’ll be served anywhere from five to seven mini courses (and even though they’re “mini,” we promise no one will go hungry). Depending on your budget, you can choose to pair a different wine with each course too. For one menu idea, start with a caramelized onion tart with Roquefort cheese, followed by herb-crusted filet mignon alongside

pork loin with pear chutney. Move on to a shaved summer squash salad, then indulge in a lobster tail before enjoying cake and bite-size sweets. Just a little caveat: Despite how delicious it may be, a tasting menu will be the focal point of your reception, which means most of your time will be spent eating. So, if you’re hoping for a lively and lengthy dance party, then a tasting menu might not be for you. But if you’re self-proclaimed foodies and want a sophisticated, black-tie wedding, we say go for it.

9. Kick Up the Kids’ Menu

As children’s palates are becoming more sophisticated, so are the children’s menus at weddings. Say good-bye to chicken fingers and spaghetti. Kids are having more fun eating sushi—yes, sushi!—like California rolls with soy sauce dips, chicken pot pie or ravioli in a nutty brown butter sauce. For the first course, caterers are also serving bowls of fresh fruit, and to drink, don’t forget the milk. It’s still delicious and approachable, just fresher, healthier and taken up a couple notches. What parents love about this is that they can relax and enjoy themselves at the wedding knowing their kids aren’t loading up on hot dogs and soda.

10. Late-Night Snacks

The food portion of the evening definitely doesn’t have to end once you cut the cake. Around 10 p.m., couples are choosing to serve late-night snacks. You’ve already impressed with the hors d’oeuvres and main course, so this part’s all about satisfying mid-party munchies with your favorite comfort food. If you love the sliders, see if your local burger joint will deliver. Or there’s the foolproof crowd-pleaser: warm chocolate-chip cookies served alongside ice-cold milk shooters. Not sure what to serve? Look to your families’ ethnic backgrounds for inspiration. Your caterer can also help you with this part of the evening by preparing a table of pizzas, popcorn with toppings, dumplings or an espresso bar. Place your late-night snack stand close to the dance floor for easy access: Dance, eat and repeat!

By Christa Vagnozzi, www.TheKnot.com Springroll photo by Still Music: Wedding Photography

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 13

Ways To Save On Your Venue And Menu 10 simple ways to make your reception incredible and your budget managable You don’t have to test your credit limit (and then some) just to have a reception in a beautiful location with delicious food. Here’s how to rent a sensational space and put together the menu of your dreams, whether your budget is little or limitless.

Get married on a Friday or Sunday

Whether you’re married on an off-peak day—aka not Saturday—or a less popular time of year (generally late fall through the winter), you’ll probably score a sweet venue for a steal.

Slash your guest list

This isn’t an easy thing to do — until you see the savings start to accrue exponentially. You’ll seriously save on catering by feeding less people and on your invitations (not to mention postage). And having a smaller space also means less décor and rentals.

Go with a venue that’s ready-to-roll

If you’re a big Father of the Bride fan, you might have your heart set on a wedding at home. Well, George Banks flipped out throughout the film for a reason — a bloated budget. Between rentals on everything from tents to toilets, creating an event where they usually aren’t hosted (whether it’s a home or a bare-bones venue) costs a lot more than a traditional venue.

Exchange vows and celebrate in the same place

If you’re getting hitched in a house of worship, your hands are kind of tied, unless there’s a reception space across the street. But if you can say your “I dos” anywhere, choose a venue that can do double-duty for your ceremony and for your reception. Not only will you save on venue fees, you’ll also cut costs on transportation and possibly flowers.

(For instance, you can have your coordinator transfer your ceremony arrangements to your gift and cake tables while your guests are enjoying the cocktail hour.)

Consider a plated dinner

It seems weird, since a sit-down dinner can seem more formal and expensive, but stations mean people can take as much as they want, so your caterer will need to cook more food just in case Uncle Bob decides to see how many beef

14 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

satay skewers one man can eat (the answer: too many for a tight budget). That said, a buffet will save you on labor costs. Family-style is a third option that’s currently having a major moment. Plus, it cuts down on food waste (since people only take what they want to eat and don’t have the option to eat more than what’s on the communal plate).

Talk to your caterer or venue coordinator about which is the cheapest option for your particular party.

Opt out of the open bar

Offer your guests beer, wine and a fun signature cocktail.

Since your venue or caterer won’t have to uncork tons of different bottles (usually with an “if it’s opened, you bought it” mentality), you’ll save money without having thirsty guests.

Serve comfort foods

Pretty displays (or plates) of mac and cheese and BBQ chicken are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Seriously, ask any potential guest -- whether they’re eight years old or 80 — if they’d prefer crispy fried chicken or a baked breast with a fancy sauce — we think we know the answer. Fun food makes for a fun party — and is totally on trend right now.

Skip the champagne toast

Nothing is sadder to a bride or groom on a budget than seeing a ton of half-finished champagne glasses littering the reception tables after a toast. People can toast with anything they’re drinking. If you want bubbly, go with

champagne’s lower-priced, but still perfectly chic and tasty, cousin — prosecco.

Think seasonally

Strawberries and other fruits and veggies out of season cost more and are not as tasty—a lose-lose situation for your menu and your budget. So if you’re getting married in July, by all means, give strawberry shortcake a place of honor on your dessert table—but if your nuptials are in the fall, serve mini pecan pies as a nod to the season’s biggest holiday.

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Throw a brunch reception

Having a midday brunch reception is not only guaranteed to be a surefire hit with your guests (who doesn’t love breakfast food?), but it’ll also help you make the most of your budget by cutting your alcohol costs way down. Your guests will love upscale versions of brunch favorites, like lobster eggs Benedict, roasted breakfast potatoes sprinkled with truffle salt and a Belgian waffle bar (with seasonal fresh fruit and homemade whipped cream). For your signature cocktails, put a twist on the classics with a garnish-ityourself Bloody Mary bar and different types of mimosas.

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Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 15

A Toast To The Bride & Groom 4 wine buying tips for weddings (BPT) - Traditional wedding rules have fallen by the wayside food trucks are in, having a hashtag is a must, bridesmaids no longer wear the same dress and groomsmen are sometimes in sneakers. Couples are actively seeking ways to differentiate themselves and get creative. All that aside, there is one thing that remains constant - weddings must have wine.

Without wine, there is no glass to raise during the toast to the bride and groom and nothing to drink when the bar closes during dinner. Wine is the first thing guests are offered when they take a seat, and - you know that they say - it’s important to make a good first impression.

Choosing the right varietals for your wedding does not have to be a stressful endeavor. Whether you’re a novice wine drinker or a connoisseur, follow these four tips and you’ll please a crowd without spending a fortune:

Say “cheers!” with a sparkling wine

People love a good toast, and nothing washes down a teary maid of honor speech like a glass of sparkling. Riondo Prosecco is an accessible option that’s ideal to enjoy any day of the year, but perfectly suited for special occasions. You’ll get six pours out of a bottle, so plan accordingly!

Good things come in threes

In addition to a sparkling, you’ll want a red and a white option that are familiar and food-friendly. You can’t go wrong with a Merlot - look for labels from the Napa region. For a white, Terlato Friuli Pinot Grigio is exceptional and ideal for food pairing.

Wine math: What you didn’t learn in school

Running out of wine mid-wedding isn’t an option, so it’s important to do the math. You should anticipate getting about 5 glasses per bottle and assume that each guest will drink one glass per hour. Follow this rule and the wine will flow all night long, keeping you and your guests happy.

Don’t break the bank, but stay away from the cheap stuff Choosing an excellent wine doesn’t mean paying top-dollar, but buying too cheap can mean sacrificing quality. There are countless high-quality, delicious, wines available for $10-$20 per bottle, so leave the cheap stuff on the bottom shelf!

Tips and sips for the perfect bridal celebration (Family Features) Whether it’s an engagement party, bridal shower, the reception or post-wedding brunch, professional event planner Alison Hotchkiss knows a thing or two about creating memorable bridal celebrations. As the founder-owner of Alison Events, and author of “The Destination Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding From Afar (Chronicle Books), and “All the Essentials Wedding Planner”, she’s produced stunning weddings all over the world.

Whether you enlist the help of a planner or do it yourself, Alison’s tips on entertaining will help you make your bridal celebration picture perfect: • Bubbles add a festive, celebratory note to any bridal

16 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

celebration. I love Prosecco sparkling wine from Italy. It’s crisp and refreshing - an affordable alternative to pricey French champagne yet equally delicious.

• Food doesn’t have to be complicated to be remarkable.

To satisfy all guest preferences, I always recommend 3 to 5 appetizers including chicken, beef and fish plus two veggie options (ideally one being vegan or dairy free).

• A signature drink is a fun way to welcome guests and get the party off to a great start. The Prosecco Ginger Cocktail is delicious and memorable. I like to serve it in unconventional glassware and garnish with Persian cucumber “swizzle sticks” for even more impact.

• A popular alternative to the traditional sit down meal at engagement parties or showers: food stations with a range of different foods offered at each. Pair a different wine with each station to create maximum variety and enjoyment as guests taste and mingle.

For more tips from Alison for creating a bridal event to remember, visit www.alisonevents.com.

Catering The Wedding: Get The Basics Answered!

The Big Question was asked. The answer was “yes!” Now you and your fiancé will embark on the big adventure all couples experience before the Big Adventure: Planning your wedding!

After the initial exuberance subsides, a flood of details enter your mind – along with a whole lot of stress. Catering is a big one. So, what do the catering professionals recommend?

Here are a few tips and basic questions to ask your prospective caterer from Gail Kapson, Director of Catering at the Woodlands Inn. 1. The food and drink will consume the biggest chunk of your wedding budget. Often, the catering charges are broken down to “per person.” Remember: This per person charge may not include taxes and the gratuity (sometimes called the “service charge.”) There might also be other per person charges – for set up, drinks, and hors d’oeurves. Bring your calculator when you meet with caterers to add up the final figure!

2. What is your server to guest ratio?

3. What is your cancellation or refund policy?

4. Do you take credit cards for payment?

5. How much of a deposit is needed to hold my date? And when do you require the final payment?

6. Once we book with you, when do we see the contract? If we revise items after the contract, do you send us a revised contract/estimate?

7. Is my date available?

8. How long have you catered weddings? How many wed-

dings do you do each year?

9. Will a banquet manager oversee the meal portion of my event – or an “on-site coordinator” covering the entire event?

10. Can we create a custom menu or do we have to choose from a pre-selected standard menu?

11. What type of décor do you provide for appetizer stations?

Buffet tables?

12. I really want ice sculptures and a chocolate fountain.

Can you accommodate these special requests? Is there an upcharge?

13. Can we do a theme menu, like a luau?

14. Do you do wedding cakes? Is this part of the per person charge, or is it extra?

15. What about my vegan or kosher guests? Can you accommodate these special diets?

16. What do you charge for children’s meals? How about vendor meals?

17. What if I want presentation upgrades, like chair covers? Is there an extra charge?

“Our goal is to make your wedding the one you dreamed of, no matter the budget,” says Kapson from the Woodlands, a favored destination for local and destination weddings for nearly half a century.

To find out more about The Woodlands Inn, phone Gail Kapson, 570-824-9831 ext 333, email Gail: gail.kapson@thewoodlandsresort.com, and visit: www.thewoodlandsresort.com/ celebrations/weddings.

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 17

Trendy Option: A Destination Wedding Unexpected ways to make your destination wedding unforgettable

(BPT) - Wedding planning season is in full swing and trend forecasts show more brides selecting destination weddings than ever before. Not only are destination weddings an affordable alternative to massive traditional weddings of past generations, they also make it easy for couples to create a customizable wedding that perfectly suits their personalities.

intimate spaces that bring guests together in an incredible setting instead. For example, the Bridge at North Beach Plantation in Myrtle Beach is a luxury penthouse suspended within the bridge that connects the two towers at the 4-diamond resort. With seven bedrooms, seven and a half baths, a media room and sweeping views of the ocean, everyone is sure to enjoy their time together to the fullest.

If you think a destination wedding might be right for you, these ideas for creating an incredibly distinctive event are sure to inspire:

Localized gift bags

Unique ceremony locations

A beach is typically the top choice for destination weddings because it gives guests a vacation setting to enjoy before, during and after your big day. Keep in mind, just because you select a beach locale doesn’t mean you must have a seaside ceremony. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a top location for destination weddings, but there are countless gardens, pergolas and fountains couples can choose as the backdrop for their vows.

Standout accommodations

Big weddings are becoming a thing of the past; consider

18 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

Although the ceremony may be intimate, guests will likely be traveling from all over the country. Start the experience right by creating localized gift bags that can be placed in rooms to greet your guests upon their arrival. Instead of typical gift-bag goodies like mints and water, delight guests with locally sourced items like chocolates or lotion from the resident boutique.

Live artists

Want to make your reception one of a kind? Hire a local artist to capture the moment in a memorable keepsake.

For example, some artists specialize in painting live events; you could hire one to capture the magic of the gathering.

Guests will love watching the painting evolve throughout

the night, and you’ll get a special piece of art you can display at home.

Hand-painted cakes

One of the hottest new wedding trends is hand-painted cakes where a master baker uses artistry to create beautiful patterns and floral designs on fondant and other types of frosting. Cake artist Heidi Vukov of Croissants, Myrtle Beach, works closely with brides planning destination weddings to ensure their hand-painted cake is perfect for their big day. It’s a refreshing approach to classic wedding cake styles, and it is sure to impress guests.

Reception surprises

Unexpected surprises tied to the couple’s personality can make a magical day that much more memorable. For example, if you met your beloved at a concert or your spouse has a special love for Adele, Bruce Springsteen or Elvis,

hire a celebrity look-alike from a local theater to make a surprise appearance.

Memorable thank-you gift

Forget the box of candy almonds! Your guests came from across the country, so thank them with a special gift. Look no further than the local culture for inspiration. For example, the Gullah people local to the Myrtle Beach area weave gorgeous sweet grass baskets in traditional designs, a perfect gift for wedding guests. Another fun option would be to gift locally made hammocks, such as those from Pawley’s Island Hammocks.

Remember, it’s your wedding and you should make it your own. A destination event is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your guests for years to come.

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The Wedding Photography 6 tips for planning your wedding photos like a pro (NewsUSA) – With everything that goes into your wedding day, those once-in-a-lifetime moments will go by in a blur, which is why hiring a professional wedding photographer is a must. After all, the last thing you should be worrying about is whether your photographer will be able to capture your big day.

The key? Prepare yourself so that you can accurately evaluate the “right” photographer for you. “The best photographer will take the time to build a rapport with you and use his or her experience and creativity to capture the mood, personality, ambiance and even the geography of your wedding,” says PPA (Professional Photographers of America) photographer Berit Bizjak. “The finest wedding photography is more than a series of still pictures. It’s physical poetry — it tells the story of the day and portrays the essence of both people and place.”

To this end, PPA, the largest international nonprofit association created by professional photographers, has taken the guesswork out of the process by offering six tips to help you plan your wedding photos like a pro: 1. Book far in advance. The best photographers get booked quickly — sometimes as much as a year in advance — so don’t wait until the last minute to book your photographer.

2. Show them the money. Now is not the time to skimp on your photo budget. Call around and get a price range for services, and remember: after the cake is long gone, and the dress is stored away, your wedding photos will be the only things left to share and enjoy for years to come, so don’t cut too many corners on your photography budget — you’ll end up regretting it.

3. Make sure your photographer is a real pro. Only hire someone who has liability insurance, experience taking the style of photos you want, backup equipment and a plan for when things go south. Ideally, he or she is a PPA photographer. PPA photographers do more than just snap pictures.

They have the technical expertise and artistry to make you look your best and bring your vision to life. They also abide by a strict code of ethics that makes a real difference.

20 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

4. Request to see a full gallery of real weddings. Look at full wedding coverage (not just a small selection of each wedding’s best moments) to see a photographer’s true style and get a sense of how he or she might tell your “story.” Do you prefer more artistic or traditional poses?

Would you rather have a photojournalist approach or a mix of all styles?

5.Work with your photographer to create a detailed shot list. PPA wedding photographers can also help you create that shot list, as they know what key moments tell a wedding story and can prepare for those. But talk about your must-haves, and walk through the entire program with your photographer ahead of time. Share your expectations ahead of time to ensure that he or she captures the key shots, while remaining attentive and available to catch the best candid moments.

6. Plan your post-wedding photo strategy ahead of time! Almost as soon as the festivities are over, you’ll be eager to look at the photos so you can relive your big day over and over again. Ask your photographer for teasers or a “sneak peek” and a timeline for when the rest of the pictures will be available. Will they give you an online gallery for family and friends to choose the images they want? Again, knowing these things ahead of time will make things easy on the back end, sparing you any heartache.

The Questions Every Couple Should Ask To Ensure They Hire The Right DJ—Revealed By Adam Skuba in Recent Radio Interview Hazleton, Pennsylvania - Adam Skuba of Skuba Entertainment was recognized as a Remarkable Wedding Entertainment Specialist by Remarkable Radio, a show that “spotlights noteworthy people, places, and things you should know from around the country and in your town.” Skuba was interviewed about his keen ability to turn wedding receptions into unforgettable and fun affairs for his clients.

With over 15 years of experience as a Wedding Entertainment Specialist, Adam is a man of many distinctions, holder of numerous certifications, and has been recognized by his peers. While other DJ Entertainers can play the music, that is only 10%. Skuba’s one-of-a-kind approach to weddings offered listeners a behind-the-scenes viewpoint of what the entertainer is really responsible for and why choosing a specialist is important.

“I’m a big fan of talk radio, and more brides need to hear these tips because the wedding magazines are not talking about this.” said Skuba, “To be able to inform so many brides of how to properly choose the right DJ for them using a powerful media like radio is surreal!”

When asked about how a ‘Wedding Entertainment Specialist’ differed from a ‘Wedding DJ’, Skuba offered this distinction, “Of course music is what we provide as DJ Entertainers, but it’s only one aspect of what we do. A specialist looks at the whole experience and all of the details that go into planning out the entire entertainment program for the wedding reception.”

Skuba went on to explain the vital importance of the wedding reception timeline, and how the entertainer is entirely responsible for the execution. With such a responsibility, you want a specialist who can either collaborate or completely design the timeline for the evening, and this should be the person who will be directing the activities on the microphone – this is your Wedding Entertainment Specialist.

“Even if you use what is called a ‘day-of coordinator’, the flow is being directed by the microphone, so your DJ needs to be knowledgeable in executing timelines smoothly, whether they created them or not.” Skuba continued, “A highly skilled specialist knows how to work with other coordinators and other vendors, including photog-

raphers and caterers so the celebration runs smoothly and every memory is captured.”

Skuba went on to reveal music secrets that ordinary DJs overlook. “Music is a huge part of the entertainment program, but there are numerous moments throughout the evening where we are creating memories” Skuba continued, “Keeping the guests engaged is important because it can be a long day for them. We find opportunities to make the traditions and formalities unique. Then, we use programming skills to create excitement, variety, and a fun ‘unpredictability’ in the music! This is what keeps the dancefloor grooving and your guests wanting more. Done properly, this is how to make your wedding reception unforgettable, unique, and fun!”

Adam Skuba and Skuba Entertainment have been helping brides and other party planners create everlasting memories for over 15 years and area couples are thrilled with the experience.

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Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 21

Gifts & Favors With A Twist Wedding favors and gifts everyone can feel good about (BPT) - You faithfully recycle at home, use a refillable BPAfree water bottle and charge your smartphone with a solar recharger. When it’s time to choose wedding favors for your own nuptials, or a gift for someone else’s wedding, do you find environmental awareness taking a backseat to style? It doesn’t have to.

It’s possible to give wedding favors and gifts that are natural, responsible and useful - items that everyone can feel good about giving and receiving. Kitchen-related products commonly appear on many wedding registry lists, and creative couples often distribute small pieces of kitchen ware as favors to their guests. For gifts that are sustainable, creative and practical, look beyond the pots, pans and dishes to the food itself.

Food-inspired wedding gifts Many newly married couples will be setting up their homes together for the first time. They may already have the basics, but you can help them round out their kitchen with some useful utensils they may not have realized they need.

For example, every cook can benefit from a well-stocked spice rack. Purchase an attractive spice rack and fill it with sustainably sourced, natural spices like those from Frontier Co-op. Choose basic spices like versatile organic basil, cinnamon and garlic, then add in some exotic options such as garam masala (an all-purpose Indian spice), Himalayan pink salt or black sesame seed.

Making pizza at home can be a fun, easy meal for busy newlyweds. Put together a pizza-making kit, complete with a quality pizza cutter, a pizza stone for baking, a wedge of Parmesan, some baking yeast, and pizza seasonings like oregano, basil and garlic powder. Place everything in a basket and complete the gift with a book of pizza recipes.

Gardening is a popular activity, and if your newlywed friends will be trying their hand at it, they may find themselves with lots of leftover produce. Giving canning supplies as a wedding gift can be a great way to encourage their love of growing their own produce, while helping ensure nothing goes to waste. Fill a canning pot with supplies like canning funnels and jars, and canning and pickling spices like bay leaves, peppercorns, celery seed, cumin, dill, mustard and salt, or even a Pickling Spice Blend.

22 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

Wedding favors they’ll savor If you’re planning your own wedding, food favors can excite guests and fulfill your desire to be eco-friendly and creative.

Tea is a soothing and sophisticated beverage that can make a great wedding favor. Simply purchase heart-shaped tea infusers and fill them with a variety of loose teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, Darjeeling, Earl Grey, or black, green or white teas. Accent the favor with a ribbon in your wedding colors.

Pepper is a ubiquitous seasoning in numerous cuisines from around the world. For a useful, welcome wedding favor that will expand guest’s culinary knowledge, why not give different gourmet peppers of the world? Peppercorns come in a variety of shades and heat levels - and even shapes! Present guests with a small peppermill and a selection of gourmet peppercorns.

Grilling is a great American past-time. If your wedding will take place in spring or summer, grilling spices and seasoning blends can be a fun wedding favor that will turn into your guest’s go-to item when they grill. Look for a variety of seasonings that work with steaks, fish, fowl and even vegetables. Choose organic seasonings from purveyors like Frontier Co-Op, which practices sustainable sourcing, so that you know you’re giving guests quality, organic seasonings.

Organic, sustainably sourced food gifts can be creative, fun and useful wedding favors and gifts - and a great way to show Mother Nature some love while you’re celebrating your own love story. To learn more about sustainably sourced spices and seasonings, visit www.frontiercoop.com.

Brides...don’t forget about a gift for the groom (NewsUSA) – The answer is: Yes, it’s expected. But it’s also a chance for all you brides out there to truly show you know that not everything is about you on your wedding day. That there really is another person involved (that would be the groom) who deserves a bit of recognition, too.

We’re talking wedding presents — specifically, yours to your husband-to-be.

Tradition does, indeed, hold that both you and he exchange gifts. And while it’s true that some guys are initially shocked to learn your engagement ring doesn’t also count as a “present,” that’s no excuse for you to waver.

“Giving him something that’s just for him will make him feel really special,” advises BrideBox.com.

Here’s what you need to know now that it’s prime time for weddings: • When to exchange them. Etiquette dictates that the hand-off occurs at one of three times: the night before the wedding, the morning of the ceremony, or right before leaving on your honeymoon. Think it’s bad luck to see the groom before the nuptials? “Many couples choose to courier gifts via bridesmaids or groomsmen just before the ceremony,” says Brides.com.

• There’s a thin line between “romantic” and “mushy.”

Some of you may be tempted to compile a “love notes” journal of every bit of correspondence you’ve ever sent your groom. Even assuming he’s the type who wouldn’t consider that a bit “over the top,” there’s always the chance he might be left wondering, “Okay, where’s my real present?”– especially if his gift to you is a serious piece of jewelry.

• The consensus choice. There’s a reason a watch invariably makes everyone’s short list: It’s the perfect statement of who he is or aspires to be. (It’s also a lot more impressive than a flask, which for some reason also gets a few votes).

• No less a taste arbiter than MarthaStewartWeddings. com favors Baume & Mercier’s Clifton watch line for the way it “easily transitions from big day to every day.”

Like the Swiss watchmaker’s timelessly charming (and affordably luxurious) Classima line, it comes with a choice of straps, dial faces and a variety of what’s known as “small complications” that go way beyong just telling the hour.

You can shop them at the Baume & Mercier e-boutique or by calling 1-800-MERCIER, where free engraving and wrapping are available.

Fun fact: One writer at AskMen.com says he’s “heard of women giving their husbands watches in the ceremony instead of a wedding ring.” If so, the answer is: No, just like your engagement ring, that wouldn’t also qualify as a wedding present.

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Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 23

Trendy wedding registry gift ideas for casual lifestyles

Barware Basics for your wedding registry

(BPT) - While your wedding should be the happiest day of your life, it can also be the happiest day for your kitchen. With a well-planned registry, you’ll be enjoying the fun, creativity and bonding of cooking together at home for years to come.

(Family Features) Building a registry is one of the big items on the wedding checklist and it can often seem like an overwhelming task, given the number of categories to consider.

From bedding and bath to kitchen, furniture and so much more, the perfect wedding registry will include all of the things that you’ll want to have as you start this next chapter as a married couple.

A wedding registry should reflect how you really live. Not everyone focuses their social life on formal dinner parties with the kind of fine china, silverware and crystal found on traditional wedding gift lists. Today’s registries reflect current lifestyles with new twists and trends.

“Wedding registries are trending toward more casual, hip and high-tech kitchenware”, says Peter Giannetti, editor-inchief of HomeWorld Business.

Selecting gifts at a variety of price points is both good etiquette and good strategy. Big-ticket items give guests the opportunity for a grand gesture, and they also make great group gifts. Be sure to include moderately priced items that are appealing and distinctive, so that everyone can feel good about what they give. For many, it is more satisfying to give something that’s special and specific, rather than one small piece for a set.

On-trend wedding registry gift ideas: 1. The growler is becoming a new must-have for those who love locally brewed craft beer, while also wanting to lead eco-friendly lifestyles that avoid the waste of excess disposable packaging. Created for filling with craft beer, the Reduce Vacuum Growler features double wall insulation that protects the beverage for full flavor enjoyment at just the right temperature.

2. Teatime is now cool, according to The Tea Association of the USA. One to consider is an iced tea maker that offers a fully customizable iced tea brewing experience from either loose tea or tea bags. The Capresso Iced Tea Maker lets you adjust to taste from regular to extra strong, and it brews into a beautiful 80-ounce glass pitcher.

3. Pepper and salt mills are focal points on the counter or the table, in addition to being everyday essentials. A unique choice that ties into popular decor trends is the Collection Antique from Peugeot. Designed and produced in France, these are keepsake mills with a lifetime warranty on the mechanisms.

4. The wok has evolved into a versatile everyday pan for quickly prepared meals with delicious, fresh ingredients. You should look for a high quality nonstick wok engineered to professional grade standards. The Kyocera 12.5-inch Nonstick Wok with Lid features an exclusive ceramic nonstick coating and can be used for braising, pan-frying, roasting, searing and stir-frying.

5. Coffee lovers appreciate a true bean-to-cup experience and who wouldn’t want a professional-style coffee bar in their own home? The JURA IMPRESSA C60 produces specialty coffee beverages in a flash. A high-performance conical burr grinder and fine foam technology for feather-like milk foam help make this machine the choice for happy couples who would rather sip their java at home versus the coffee shop.

24 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

One area to focus on is selecting great barware. You may be entertaining friends and family even more as newlyweds, so having the right glassware and tools that fit your entertaining style is important.

To help with the process, Clinton Kelly, “Wedding’s Best Man” for Macy’s, shares his tips for building a well-stocked bar, as well as recipes to impress any guest: • Decide on a Style—Whether it’s frilly and fluted or heavy and masculine, determine a style that best suits your taste.

The traditional route is to get a suite of cut crystal, but these days, casual glassware is just as welcome on the table, as well as mixing different styles.

• Know Thy Beverage—Technically, just about every drink has an optimal glass silhouette. But unless you have unlimited storage space, consider what you like to drink and how you entertain. If your typical Saturday night involves eight-course dinners with wine pairings, register for a glass for each grape.

For everyone else, consider eight to 12 each of the three or four glasses you’re most likely to use, Kelly adds.

• Shape it Up—Most people go for red and white wine glasses, plus champagne flutes or ones for fortified wines.

When it comes to cocktails, start with highball glasses which you can also use for water, and then pick specialty silhouettes based on your favorite beverages: martini glasses, margarita glasses, Irish coffee mugs and more. If you’re a beer drinker, load up on steins or pilsner glasses instead.

• The Right Tool for Every Drink—Fill out your registry with plenty of accessories and tools: corkscrew, decanter, shaker, ice bucket and more. And while you’re at it, why not a bar cart to hold it all?

• It’s 5 O-Clock Somewhere—Master these drink recipe ideas from Kelly and you’ll impress all your friends.

- Martini: Add 2 ounces of gin and a splash of vermouth to a shaker filled with ice. Shake it, then strain into a chilled glass and garnish with two olives or a twist of lemon. Substitute pearl onions to make it a Gibson.

- Margarita: Add one part each tequila, triple sec, lime juice and simple syrup (you can use brown sugar for a caramel flavor) to a shaker filled with ice. Mix and strain into a saltrimmed glass filled with ice. Sub in spicy salt or jalapenoinfused tequila for some kick.

- French 75: Mix an ounce of gin, a little simple syrup and lemon juice in a shaker. Then strain it into a champagne flute and top with champagne.

Visit www.macys.com/weddingswithclintonkelly for more helpful tips, videos and information about Macy’s registry perks and privileges.

Finding The Perfect Fit Wedding bands to fit every personality (NewsUSA) - It’s one of the toughest decisions for any bride and groom -- and, no, we don’t mean where to seat feuding relatives at the wedding reception.

We’re talking wedding bands, symbols of eternal love, and the most important pieces of jewelry a man and woman will ever own.

In the search for the perfect wedding bands, many couples turn to platinum to ensure they are getting the best value for their money. With a bevy of styles and a range of prices -- a platinum band can be purchased starting at $1,000 -- it’s easy to find a ring that best suits the bride’s personality. “No matter what ‘type’ you are,” says style expert Michael O’Connor, “you’re guaranteed of getting the best possible ring for the price because platinum, being naturally white, will not fade or change color, lasting over a lifetime of wear.”

What’s your ring type?

• Down-to-Earth. This no-nonsense bride has been planning her wedding for years -- with the stacks of bridal magazines to prove it -- and knows exactly what she wants.

Ring type: Instead of anything too delicate or dainty, look for a heavier, more solid design. A simple platinum band or one with a bezel set diamond ensures a timeless look.

• Adventurous. She’s a risk-taker who’s feeling so daring about her nuptials that she may even have considered eloping. (Well, at least a destination wedding.) Ring type: A dynamic personality requires a stand-out ring, so go for a platinum band set with colored stones or intricate engraving.

• Social butterfly. This people-pleaser loves to entertain and wants to ensure that her wedding day is special for every single guest. Ring type: A small, discreet gemstone, like a single solitaire, displayed in a flush cut on a platinum band will provide just the right adornment.

• Quirky. This bride is looking for ways to inject her and her partner’s personalities into every aspect of the wedding day, whether through DIY details or a choreographed

first dance.

Ring type: A platinum tension setting with an unconventional gemstone creates a unique look.

Lastly, wedding bands are important symbols of your lifelong commitment, so even if your band styles don’t match, at least look to share the same metal. To learn more, visit www.platinumjewelry.com.

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The Gown

A-LINE GOWN This universally flattering style hugs the torso and has a flared skirt in an A-shape.

MERMAID GOWN This gown is a bit more fitted and flares out at the knee (or lower). It’s a great silhouette for showing off curves.

BALL GOWN The ball gown has a fitted bodice and a dramatic full skirt. Busty brided will love this shape because it creates balanced proportions.

Finding the Right White: SKIN TONE: Dark CHOOSE: Stark white or almost any shade SKIN TONE: Medium with olive tones CHOOSE: Champagne or diamond white SKIN TONE: Medium with yellow tones CHOOSE: Off-white or creamy ivory SKIN TONE: Fair and pink-toned skin CHOOSE: Ivory

26 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

EMPIRE-WAIST GOWN The skirt in this gown style extends from the bustline. It’s a great choice for pear-shaped brides because it disguises the hips.

SHEATH This slim, form-fitting silhouette hugs the body from head-to-toe.

It’s the perfect look for casual, intimate wedding.

Dressing your Body Type: HOURGLASS: Full bust and full hips with waist defenition.

ROUND (Apple shape): Full bust and full hips without waist defenition.

INVERTED TRIANGLE: Broad shoulders and small hips.

RECTANGLE: Straight up and down proportions with very little waist definition.

Triangle (Pear shape): Broader hips than shoulders.

Shedding For The Wedding Your 3-month countdown guide (BPT) - The dress, the tux, the guests, the honeymoon - there are so many details that go into your wedding day. All eyes are on you from the moment you walk down the aisle until the last dance of the night. Understandably so, brides and grooms often feel a lot of pressure to look their best on this important day - there’s nothing like a wedding to motivate you to get serious about your health and fitness goals.

But crash diets or extreme exercise programs are never the answer. “It’s usually best to start thinking about your specific goals at least three months before your wedding day to allow plenty of time to establish your routine and adjust to a healthier lifestyle,” says Steve Bronston, certified personal trainer with Life Time, a healthy way of life company that operates more than 115 health and wellness centers nationwide.

Bronston and Life Time offer a three-month countdown plan to get you ready for the big day: • Weeks 1-4: Focus on changing your unhealthy habits. Nutrition is key when trying to lose weight, decrease body fat and increase your overall health. Work with a professional to lay out a detailed nutrition plan that consists of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats at each meal. Then, begin with a fitness program that incorporates weight training and cardio intervals. Arm exercises like overhead press, tricep push-ups

and bicep curls, and back exercises like rows and rear flys help brides looking to tone up for a strapless or low-back dress.

Bronston suggests starting with two or three days of weight training, two or three days of cardio and one day of Pilates or yoga.

• Weeks 5-8: Now it’s time to switch up your exercise routines. It’s a good idea to work with a personal trainer or join a group fitness class once or twice a week to shake up your routine and stay motivated. Your workouts should include one to two weight training exercises per body part throughout the week. If you can, try to shift the amount of weight you use and number of repetitions you do to help stimulate change within your body. Continue a cardio routine of two to three days per week and add in another day or Pilates or yoga.

• Weeks 9-12: It is important to keep up with your developing healthy habits as the weeks progress, but as your wedding day approaches, you’re sure to feel the stress of planning. “A new focus on rest and relaxation during this time period is key,” Bronston says. “Without sleep, stretching, rest and recovery, your body is at risk of not functioning properly.”

Planning a wedding can be stressful and tiresome, but if you commit to a healthy diet and fitness plan, you’ll walk down the aisle feeling confident and ready for your new life ahead.

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Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 27

The Wedding Party Bridemaids

• For a modern, but still put-together-look, pick the color and fabric but let your bridesmaids choose the neckline and silhouette.

• When shopping, bring one or two bridesmaids. Choose the one who is has the body type or coloring that’s most similar to the rest of the bridal party or the JEWEL STRAPLESS NECKLINE maid who is the most difficult to fit.

• Ask for your maids advice but make the final decision yourself.

You’re the one who knows the ASYMMETRIC SCOOP NECKLINE overall look, formality and NECKLINE people’s budgets best.

• Allow three months delivery and alteration • The bridesmaids should try to time for the dresses.

• Don’t forget the extras! Should the maids all place their dress orders at the same time to ensure that the have the same shoes, jewelry, hairstyles, handbags or wraps? Communicate your desires dresses will be made from the same dye lot. clearly to your maids.

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• Brush up on tuxedo terms and take a peek in your own closet before you begin suit shopping. This will give you an idea of what style you like best—notched or shawl lapel, standard or spread collar.

• The groomsmen should dress around the groom. A consistant look is great, but the groom should sport some detail (a boutanniere, tie or pocket square) that differentiates him from the pack.

• The tuxedo is classic, but consider all your options. Marrying by the beach? Try a more casual jacket and trousers. Having an ultraformal wedding? Pick a cutaway coat, graystriped trousers, gray vest and ascot.

• Should you rent or buy? If you don’t attend many formal events, renting may be the way to go. If you’ll have three or four more good uses for a tux, the suit will pay for itself.

28 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

Flower Girls & Ring Bearers • Flower girls and ring bearers don’t have to match the adults perfectly but they should certainly fit in with the formality of the event. The only exception: Tuxedos aren’t necessary (and may not be available) for tykes under six. Our trick—substitute a black suit and bow tie.

• Be sure to dress your flower girl or ring bearer appropriately for their age.

Don’t Forget Mom! The Ultimate to Mother-of-the-Bride Dress Shopping Once upon a time, mothers of the bride were expected to wear matronly dresses in Easter-egg pastels or washed out shades of beige. Thankfully, that’s in the past. But now that MOBs are free to express their sartorial sensibilities, all of the fashionable choices can be incredibly overwhelming. Talk about spoiled for choice!

Never fear. We asked some bridal pros to give us a few pointers for making the process as seamless as possible. Whether you’re a bride who’s hoping to help your mom find the perfect look or the materfamilias to the lucky lady herself, we’ve got the who, what, when, where and how of mother-of-the-bride dress shopping.

Let the Bride Be Your Guide If you take away only one tip, let it be this one: Follow the bride’s cues about style, color, and degree of formality. She and the groom set the tone for the event, whether that means a casual country wedding complete with cowboy boots or a formal black-tie affair. You’re an important member of the wedding party and you’ll want to look the part. So, ask your daughter for some guidelines and follow suit.

Take Color Cues from the Wedding Party Traditionally, the mother of the bride’s dress should complement the wedding party’s colors (though not necessary match). It’s best to wait until your daughter chooses the bridesmaids’ dresses to begin shopping. See if you can get a swatch of their fabric to take with you — it will be super helpful when searching for a harmonizing hue.

If your daughter foregoes the uniform bridesmaid dresses in favor of individual outfits in a similar shade, stick to one or the other. For instance, if she asks her attendants to wear black cocktail dresses, you might want to choose something in silver or grey. Or if her girls are going in cobalt blue, a navy dress would pair perfectly.

There’s only one color not to wear say the experts: Avoid anything in the same color as the bride’s dress. Though you deserve to look stunning, the bride should stand out as the star of the show.

Borrow from the Venue, Too It used to be that mother-of-the-bride dresses followed a kind of uniform — a cocktail jacket atop an understated sheath.

Today, almost anything goes — so long as it’s appropriate for the event. So, while you probably wouldn’t wear a strapless dress to a church wedding, it might be just the thing for a beach ceremony. However, you can add a lovely wrap or, yes, even a jacket to that same dress and it instantly becomes chapel appropriate.

Make sure you also take the weather and cultural or religious customs into account when finding your outfit. Whatever kind

of wedding it is, you can never go wrong if you these three words come to mind: elegant, understated, and appropriate.

Time It Right and Communicate Your Choice According to our bridal experts, you should start searching for your dress no later than three moths before the wedding to allow time for special orders and alterations. You may choose to look in department or specialty stores for your dress, but don’t pass over traditional bridal salons. Many have options for the mother of the bride, as well!

It is customary for the mother of the bride to buy her dress first and to then share her choice with the mother of the groom.

The mother of the groom might also need special orders and alterations, so be sure to give her ample time to accomplish this before the wedding. The mothers’ dresses don’t have to match (unless that’s what the bride wants), but they should complement each other. Remember, you’ll be taking lots of pictures together and the only person who should stand out is the bride.

Get Pretty Just Prior to the Wedding There aren’t any special rules for mother-of-the-bride hair and makeup. Again, think elegant, understated, and appropriate — and reflective of your style. As with the bridal party, you’ll usually want to get a fresh mani and pedi the day before the wedding and have your hair and makeup done the day of.

Whether you do this with the bridal party is up to your daughter.

If the bride prefers to get glammed up with just her bridesmaids, don’t take it personally. You can invite the mother of the groom or other family members to have a prettying party of your own, or relish the rare moment of quiet and plan to slip off on your own. Just make sure that you do plan to get your hair and makeup done — whether by a professional or trusted friend. Too often, mothers overlook themselves in favor of their children. Remember, it’s your special day, too!

by Jolène M. Bouchon of www.brides.com

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 29

Secrets To Wedding Day Bliss Top 10 wedding mistakes to avoid #10 Don’t Rock the Cash Bar When it comes to alcohol at your reception, what you serve is entirely up to you. Whether you choose to serve a full bar, limited cocktails, Beer and Wine, or no alcohol at all will be based on various factors including budget. The one option that is not recommended is a Cash Bar. Your guests should be gracious enough to accept what is being offered to them. If however a guest feels the need for a drink selection that is not offered, chances are that he or she will be resourceful enough to find it.

Also, request that bartenders not put out tip jars. If you are hosting the bar, tell your catering contact that you are happy to pay gratuity to the bartender(s) but that you do not want your guests to feel obligated to tip.

#9 Go flat!

A huge number of brides give feedback that they wish they had worn flats, having kicked off their heels during the reception. As a bride you can expect to be standing for 8-12 hours on your wedding day. Be sure to break in your shoes well in advance. Even when wearing flats, unexpected blisters can form after a few hours on your feet.

#8 Have a little faith D.J.’s are perhaps the wedding vendor most micromanaged by couples. Too many song requests may actually impede the flow of your party. You hire your D.J. to judge when to play what music. You wouldn’t instruct your Caterer step by step on how to prepare food, or your Photographer on what angles and lenses to use. Limit your D.J. request list to a few favorites and a do-not-play list of only the songs you cannot stand. Do not get carried away and have some trust.

#7 Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize What really matters most to you, the photographer, the music and dancing, the food and wine, the decorations, or being able to accommodate a large guest list? Put your money towards what you care about. You will have regrets if you skimp on what really counts. When you, the Bride and Groom are not footing the bill yourselves however, you may have to forfeit some financial decision-making. If this is the case you will need to compromise on certain priorities or if you really want that pricey photographer offer

30 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

to pay for one yourself.

#6 Bibbity Bobbity Boo Wedding Dress shops are notorious for having your dress shipped in at the last minute. Think about it, if you owned a Wedding Dress Boutique you wouldn’t want every brides dress held at your shop for nine+ months before their weddings. Schedule your first fitting well before your wedding.

Your final dress fitting should be no less than 1 week prior to your wedding so that alterations can still be made.

Tuxedo rentals for all attendants must be tried on, that includes Dad. Whether the Tailor seemed to take precise measurements or not, too many men still show up at weddings with high waters or baggy tuxes.

#5 Don’t hit the road, Jack Your wedding day is one of the biggest, most important days of your life. You will be exhausted and a bit disorderly the following day. Going away is the last thing you will want to worry about. Wait at least a couple of days before venturing on your honeymoon. Your wits will thank you.

#4 Last night of single life DO NOT hold your Bachelor or Bachelorette party the night before your wedding! This may seem like a no-brainer but many brides and grooms still practice the archaic ritual of drinking all night on that fatal evening. It is simply not worth it, as the Bride/Groom and your attendants will no doubt feel tired, look tired, have a hangover, or worse

be sick walking down the aisle. If necessary, request that any out of town attendants arrive a day earlier to help you to prepare and celebrate a different night.

ends, beautify yourself, attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner in many cases, and most importantly get some amount of rest for the day ahead. You are going to need it!

#3 No Guidance

#1 High demands

With no Director there are too many details left to too many people at your ceremony. Having a Wedding Coordinator allows for one person to coordinate your wedding party processional, music, minister, seating guests and to resolve any unexpected last minute complications. A Coordinator will ease the stress level of everyone, including you, tremendously on your wedding day. So if your location does not include a Wedding Day Coordinator who also directs your rehearsal, hire your own. A Wedding Coordinator may be much more affordable than you think.

Try to keep in mind that although your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen may offer you extra help, these friends can become taken advantage of. The only “official obligations” of wedding party members are emotional support, the financial expense of wedding attire and travel, participation in the rehearsal and the obvious role on your wedding day. In the case of the MOH or BM, reception toasts are traditional as well. Other help that these individuals may offer should not be viewed as duties, but rather as acts of kindness including: setting up/tearing down, transporting ceremony goods, throwing a bridal shower or other party, distributing gratuities, and any other help that is offered.

#2 Stretching yourself too thin As the bride you will make everyone around you crazy by waiting until the last minute in planning and finalizing details. If you have a hard time planning and prioritizing on your own then get help. You don’t want to be remembered as “one of those brides” that put everything off and then expected her friends and family to pick up the pieces, do you?

Do not commit yourself to social events the day before your wedding. This day is meant for you to wrap up loose

Remember to be thoughtful towards your attendants.

Bridesmaids may not be comfortable in 4 inch heels, purchasing new jewelry or paying to have their hair or makeup professionally styled. Do not forget to personally thank any bridal party members for taking part in your wedding, as well as family members who gave you assistance. A small thank you gift is always appreciated. provided by www.BendedKneeWeddings.com

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www.smilaxflorals.com Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 31

What A Bride Wants Relaxation and sophistication are favored choices for bachelorette parties (BPT) - As a rite of passage, the bachelorette party has long gotten a bum rap. Stereotypes persist of the bride’s nightbefore-the-wedding gathering as a ladies-only version of the raucous bachelor party. Yet the truth is, a growing number of brides crave a tasteful, relaxing and deeply personal send-off for their single days.

In fact, a relaxing getaway ranked high as an ideal bachelorette party for 59 percent of brides-to-be in the Ultimate Bridesmaids Census. Sixty-seven percent wanted dinner, dancing and time spent with their closest friends, and 23 percent wanted something non-traditional that really reflected their personal interests.

“Bachelorette parties are as unique as the women they celebrate,” says Michael Belot, general manager of Destination Kohler - home to AAA five-diamond and Forbes five-star hotel that hosts scores of brides, bridesmaids and weddings each year. “We’re seeing an emphasis on relaxation for the bride and companionship with her friends in today’s bachelorette parties. Brides want to spend their special night - and often an entire weekend - in a soothing, stress-free atmosphere before the hectic pace of their wedding day.”

So what are the things that brides and bridesmaids tell the Destination Kohler team they must have for their bachelorette soirees? Belot points to five in-demand elements:

Spa time

Whether it’s a group mani-pedi, a yoga class or a lunch of delicious, healthful spa cuisine, bachelorette groups crave spa time. Parties are looking for spas that offer a comprehensive list of salon services, familiar and new massages and body treatments, and easy access to luxury accommodations. For example, at Destination Kohler, bachelorette groups often book rooms in the Carriage House, which is located above the Forbes five-star Kohler Waters Spa. Participants can spend the day in their spa robes if they choose. “Kohler Waters Spa is by far the most popular request and activity among bachelorette parties, and is often the center of the trip,” says Garrett Mersberger, manager of Kohler Waters Spas. Playing to this trend, many resorts have created female-centric spa packages like the Girls Getaway.

Great food

Forget the pigs in a blanket, deviled eggs and other de rigeur finger foods long associated with bridal showers. Modern bachelorette groups are looking for dining options that are luxurious and delicious, or that accommodate lifestyle needs such as gluten-free or low-calorie diets. Spa fare often fits well with this preference. Resorts with multiple dining options afford bachelorette guests the opportunity to dine lightly for

32 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

lunch and then enjoy a more indulgent dinner.

Bonding activities

Hitting the bar and dancing the night away are no longer the only bonding activities for bachelorette groups. From yoga classes and golf outings to wine and chocolate pairings, brides-to-be are looking for more diverse, sophisticated activities they can do with their girlfriends.

A location “away from it all”

Nearly a third of respondents in the Bridesmaid Census said they didn’t want to go crazy for a bachelorette party, they just wanted to enjoy time with their friends. Perhaps it’s because their lives are about to change dramatically. Maybe it’s a need to reaffirm the girlfriend bond that has seen them through life’s ups and downs to reach this happy point in their lives.

Whatever their reasons, a growing number of brides are looking for a bachelorette experience that transports them and their closest friends far away from their daily routines. Some fulfill this wish by choosing a resort location far from home.

Others may choose accommodations that are more intimate.

At Destination Kohler, bachelorette parties can also opt to stay at Sandhill, the resort’s luxury private cabin that sits on 350 natural acres just a 10-minute drive from the resort.

Personalization

Twenty-three percent of surveyed brides said they wanted a bachelorette party that was deeply personal and tailored to their individual tastes and interests. For some, that’s a spa experience. For others, a golf getaway. Even when they’ve booked a bachelorette package, brides and their bridesmaids are looking for ways the resort can customize their experience.

Add-ons are popular, from spa treatments to wine tastings.

Bachelorette party experiences are becoming as individual as the brides they celebrate, Belot notes. “Brides are not cookie cutter, so their bachelorette parties shouldn’t be either.”

How to Deal with His Bachelor Party Don’t worry -- you’re hardly the first bride to feel uncomfortable about the bachelor party. Though out-of-control antics on movies and TV make it look like total debauchery, the real-life version will likely be a bit more mundane. If it’s making you uncomfortable, read on for some honest info and advice.

Let Him Have It

We don’t mean unleash your inner bridezilla. If he wants to have a bachelor party, let him. It’s an important guy ritual to blow off steam prewedding and for him to reassure his pals that he’s still “one of the guys” even though he’s making a commitment to marriage. After all, you’re planning on keeping your circle of friends tight postwedding, so he should have his crew too.

The Unexpected Is a Possibility

Bachelor parties aren’t exactly what they used to be. Rather than the stereotypical evening of strippers and stogies, many men today are opting for other types of parties. Taking a weekend trip with the guys -- think outdoorsy activities like white-water rafting and fly-fishing -- is a popular option. Even those who stay closer to home might go with an unconventional activity that’s fun and out of the ordinary.

Communicate Your Limits

Be open about your feelings. This doesn’t mean nag him endlessly; it means tell him what makes you uncomfortable. Letting him know your threshold for wild-and-craziness is totally

acceptable, and he should appreciate that you were willing to tell him. It can also potentially open up an important dialogue about your relationship: You need to know that you can trust him, and he you.

Remember Your Own

Don’t forget -- you get to do this too. If your bachelorette party is going to be a spa day, that’s one thing, but if you’re hitting the town looking fabulous with your girlfriends, that’s totally another. When you’re talking about the bachelor party, be sure to talk about the bachelorette party as well: It’s only fair that the two of you play by the same rules. Setting a mutual limit also makes the whole process feel less like each partner constraining the other and more about setting boundaries within your relationship.

On the Big Night

Don’t sit at home watching the clock and wondering what he’s doing. Make plans of your own, get out of the house, and go have a good time! Even if you aren’t up for going out to a club, surely you can muster the energy to go to the movies with a friend or two. The scenarios you come up with in your head are most likely a thousand times more lurid than anything that’s actually going on. Remember, there might be a lot of girls out there, but you are the one he wants to marry.

By Kate Wood, www.TheKnot.com

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OPEN: Tues & Wed 5:30pm-10pm • Sat 10am-5pm Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 33

Navigating A Frequently Forgotten Step In Wedding Planning You’ve picked your date, chosen your venue, decided on your photographer and entertainment, but have you figured out your marriage finances?

Weddings are the integral part of nearly every newlyweds’ lives, with each couple trying to create a memorable experience for not only themselves, but their guests. While you are planning your most important event, it is also a good idea to begin discussions on how you and your spouse will handle your finances together. While the extensive planning for a wedding culminates in that one momentous night, planning how you will handle your finances will prepare you for a lifetime of consensus financial decisionmaking.

Every couple must start by simply discussing their financial goals. Some basic, but often overlooked, items to consider include paying for your wedding, purchasing a home, and merging your bank accounts. When paying for your wedding, it is a best practice to have all your expenses come out of one account. This will help to ensure that your various vendors are paid by being able to easily track all the transactions in one place. Purchasing a home is a big step in anyone’s life. For a couple, it is that important step towards committing yourself to a lifelong relationship.

If you already own a home and would like to include your spouse, it’s vital you start that process with your mortgage lender at your financial institution. If you are interested in scouring the housing market for available homes, you should first contact your mortgage lender at your financial institution, so you can start the pre-approval process. This will make your housing search significantly easier by allowing you to search within the price range you are approved.

By merging your bank accounts, you are centralizing your funds, which will make it easier to pay for your combined daily and monthly expenses. This is important because it can help you avoid paying non-sufficient funds fees and returned check fees, or overdraft fees, if your financial institution has that option. To merge your accounts, contact your employer on how to transfer your direct deposit to your new account. Some employers require different documentation to change direct deposit, so be sure to contact

34 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

them first. Then, followup with your financial institution who can easily provide any documentation you may need.

To close your old bank accounts, simply contact your financial institution and let them know you’d like to close your account. They will provide you a check, or you can transfer your funds into your new account via an ACH (automated clearing house transactions) or wire transfer. If you have automatic bill payments coming out of your account, such as utility bills through ACH withdrawals, inform the company that is deducting those funds of your new account information. They will need your checking account number and the financial institution’s routing number. Also, be sure to leave enough money in your old accounts to cover at least two months of bill payments, as some billing companies are slow to update account information. Once your new account starts receiving withdrawals for your bill payments, you can close your old account and withdraw any remaining money.

Visit CACL Federal Credit Union to help you navigate your finances and achieve your financial goals. We are located at 1800 W. Market St. in Pottsville and are experts in helping you when others won’t. We have experienced Mortgage Lenders and specialists who can walk you through the new account process. For more information on all of our products and services, visit us online at www.caclfcu. org, and be sure to like us on Facebook. CACL Federal Credit Union will make this forgotten step easy, so you can focus on your wedding cake flavor and song list.

Beat Wedding Planning Pressure 5 tips for a smaller intimate wedding (BPT) - The terms wedding and money go hand in hand. The average wedding cost is now up to $31,213 according to theknot.com, and that’s not even including the honeymoon.

Because of increasing costs, more and more couples are looking to plan a smaller, more intimate ceremony. While there’s no universal way to define a small wedding, it typically involves a limited gathering of family and close friends.

No matter the size of your guest list, you’re bound to feel the stress of planning as you want your day to be perfect. But opting for a modest-sized wedding opens the door to endless options and possibilities.

Here are some tips for making your small-scale wedding the event of the year: • Whittle down your guest list—If you can keep your guest count low, the cost for just about everything you need for your wedding will significantly decrease. There’s always going to be more guests you could invite, but if you’re making a point to have a small wedding, people will be understanding. Set limits and stick to them.

• Rent what you can—Rental stores offer a wide range of products to fit weddings of any size or theme. A smaller wedding opens up your options when it comes to venue and personalization. You’ll likely need tables and chairs, tents, a dance floor and maybe even china, tableware and linens.

Start by searching on RentalHQ.com to find a store for all your decorating and setup needs.

• Keep the menu simple—One of the biggest costs of a wedding is the food, so try to shy away from extravagant and fancy menu items. All you need are a few key dishes and one or two desserts to keep everyone satisfied. Your guests aren’t coming to ogle over a lavish spread, they simply want to be there to celebrate with the happy couple.

• Stick to your budget—Create a budget using money you already have in the bank. There’s no need to go into debt when planning an intimate wedding. If you have $1,000 to spend, then plan a $1,000 wedding. If you stick to a moderate budget, you’re more likely to keep the planning and actual event in control.

• Think outside the box—A small wedding may require a bit of strategic thinking and DIY projects. For example, you can make your own invitations and party favors to not only save money, but to reflect your unique personality as a couple.

You can also get creative with the venue, like a small bed and breakfast, restaurant or historic home. There’s no need to book an entire banquet hall.

Let these straightforward ideas take some of the stress out of your wedding planning. After all, your wedding day is supposed to be one of the happiest occasions. For more wedding planning tips and helpful options visit rentalhq.com/weddings.

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Tipping Cheat Sheet How much should you tip Wedding Vendors?

When you’ve already paid a lot of money for your wedding services, having to dig deeper in your pocket to come up with a tip could blow your wedding budget. So you might ask, “How Much Should You Tip Wedding Vendors?”

You should always try to include tips for wedding vendors in your wedding budget. Planning out your tips ahead of time will help you avoid unexpected costs and minimize confusion on the wedding day. Put each tip in a marked envelope. Designate someone to give the tips to the wedding vendors, whether it’s the best man, father of the bride, or wedding coordinator.

Here is a cheat sheet with common tip amounts for various wedding services: • Wedding Deliveries (Cake, flowers, rentals, etc)— Tip?: Yes Amount: $5 – $10 per person When: Drop off cash envelopes with wedding planner or venue manager to disperse as deliveries are made.

• Wedding Hair and Makeup— Tip?: Yes Amount: 20% of service price When: At the end of your service • Wedding Reception Staff—Tip?: Yes (usually included in contract price) Amount: 15–20% of the food and drink fee (based on labor, not the cost) When: If it’s included in the contract, the final bill is due before the reception.

Otherwise, have the father of the bride or best man hand the envelope to the maitre d’ at the end of the reception since you will need to know the final tab to calculate the percentage.

• Wedding Ceremony Officiant—Tip?: Yes Amount: Tip $50–$100 or donation to the church/synagogue When: at the rehearsal or before • Wedding Ceremony Musicians—Tip?: Optional Amount: $15–$20 per musician When: At the end of the ceremony.

• Wedding Reception Band or DJ—Tip?: Optional/Expected Amount: $20–$25 per musician; $50 – $150 for DJs When: At the end of the reception • Wedding Transportation—Tip?: Yes (usually included in contract price) Amount: 15–20% of the total cost When: If included, due when contract is signed. Otherwise have someone give the driver an envelope.

• Wedding Photographer/Videographer—Tip?: Optional Amount: $50–$200 per vendor When: At the end of the reception.

• Wedding Reception Attendants (parking, bathroom, coat room, etc)—Tip?: Yes (often included in contract price for the venue Amount: $50-$100 depending on the number of guests When: Have the father of the bride or best man deliver tips at the beginning of the evening

36 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

• Wedding Planner—Tip?: Optional Amount: Up to $500 When: at the end of the reception, or with a thank-you note after the event.

Money-saving moving tips for newlyweds (BPT) - First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes moving into a new house.

The big move often comes after the big day. Whether you’re moving in together for the first time or you’re saying goodbye to your tiny apartment and moving into a starter home, it’s an exciting - and often expensive - time.

Consider these tips to help streamline your move and save you money so you can fully enjoy the honeymoon phase in your new home sweet home: • Purge, sell and save—Did you receive new dishes or cookware as a wedding gift? You can probably ditch your old set. Host a garage sale or sell items you don’t need online to make some cash while reducing goods you have to move.

• Determine what size moving truck you’ll need—A good rule is to plan for 150 cubic feet of space for every fully furnished room. Many young couples moving from a small apartment or condo into a larger first home will find a 12- or 16-foot Penske rental truck adequate. Plan to reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance. Ask about discounts when reserving; Penske Truck Rental offers rental discounts for AAA members.

• Be thoughtful of wedding gifts—Did you receive gift cards for your wedding? Wait until after you move to spend them so you don’t have to haul extras. For the wedding gifts you received, try to keep them in the original boxes for extra protection.

• Start early and pack smart —Get sturdy boxes of various sizes and fill them with similar items. Label each box with the contents and room name. Make sure you have plenty of packing bubbles and towels to wrap breakable items. Finally, tape boxes securely before transport.

• Ask for help —Ask friends to help carry and pack boxes.

A move is a great reason to get the wedding party together one more time. If something is particularly heavy, there’s no shame in enlisting professionals for help to prevent injury.

• Loading the truck—Load large items like beds and couches into the truck first to ensure a safe and secure fit.

Next, load the heaviest boxes on the bottom and then place lighter boxes on top. Need help planning? Penske’s Truck Wizard application makes packing a breeze.

When the big move follows the big day, there’s no need to stress. With a little strategic planning, you’ll save time and money while ensuring all your belongings arrive at your new home safely.

The Lodge At Sharp Mountain The Lodge at Sharp Mountain situated on the picturesque Sharp Mountain in Pottsville Pennsylvania, provides a fresh look back on the exciting times enjoyed at our facility over the last 50 years. The Lodge’s design reminds one of the wonderful experiences of the Sharp Mountain Ski Area, Lodge Bar, and Restaurant that operated from 1965 to 1975, and of the glorious days of the exclusive private member Pottsville Club that operated at our 26th street location from 1975 to 2013.

Today, The Lodge at Sharp Mountain is available to the public for enjoyment as a Restaurant, Bar and Event Venue. Space is available for every occasion: Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions, Anniversaries, Graduation Parties, Birthdays, Holiday Celebrations, Family Reunions, Retirement Parties, Proms, Fundraisers, Political Events, Funeral Dinners, Seminars & Conferences, as well as Meeting Space for your Organization. There are two separate levels to choose from for your events, each level accommodating up to 200-225 guests. The Lower Level Pine Tree Ballroom, offers a fabulous banquet space encased by a magnificent wall of windows showcasing our glorious forestry, along with its own private bar. The Upper Level

Timber Top Ballroom showcases an upscale lodge décor with a peaked cathedral style ceiling, again offering a private bar plus an outdoor deck available to enjoy the picturesque tree lined hillside of Pottsville’s Sharp Mountain.

You’ll find the food choices excellent and beautifully prepared. A perfect fit can be found for every budget by starting with the Ala Carte menu suggestions. Wedding Reception Packages have also been developed which are a great approach to coordinating and creating treasured memories of your special day. For brides looking to host the ceremony and reception in one location, The Lodge offers both an outdoor deck and ballroom dance floors to host wedding ceremonies. Contact the Sales Office at 570-622-0622 to make an appointment to tour the venue, and discuss your visions in detail.

A very active Facebook Page is available, be sure to like “The Lodge At Sharp Mountain”! You can also receive weekly updates regarding The Lodge restaurant’s happy hour and evening food specials by visiting www.LodgeAtSharpMtn.com and signing up for the weekly e-newsletter.

Drink, Dine & Enjoy at The Lodge At Sharp Mountain!

The Lodge at Sharp Mountain, Situated in the Picturesque Mountains of Schuylkill County is the Premiere Venue Location for Your Reception!

Whether a small intimate group gathering or a large affair, our professional staff will cater to you and your guest’s every need.

201 South 26th Street, Pottsville (570) 622-0622 Events@LodgeAtSharpMtn.com www.LodgeAtSharpMtn.com

TWO LARGE EVENT BANQUET ROOMS ACCOMMODATIONS FOR UP TO 225 GUESTS EACH BANQUET ROOM HAS A PRIVATE BAR SETUP AMPLE PARKING OUTDOOR DECK WITH SEATING

OUR WEDDING RECEPTION PACKAGES INCLUDE: •Cocktail & Hors d'oeuvres Hour •Champagne Toast For All Guests •Salad, Entree & Accompaniments •Three Additional Hours Of Bar When Dinner Is Cleared •A Beautifully Decorated Wedding Cake •Four Consecutive Hours Of DJ Music •Fresh Seasonal Flower Centerpieces On All Guests Tables

Our Packages Have Been Described As One-stop Shopping. Leave The Connections And Details To Us!

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 37

DIY Wedding Ideas Food Meets Decor with Hot Wedding Trends (Family Features) When it comes to weddings (or pretty much any party), unique is the new traditional, and no event should be created alike. One of the most buzzedabout trends for the big day is to have fun with food by creating edible displays that are anything but expected.

Guests will fall in love with a deliciously entertaining menu that doubles as memorable wedding decor.

Spanning every course, from appetizers to wedding cake, these arrangements take dishes from dull to distinctive and will keep guests talking about the wedding to remember.

Traditional dairy products - cheese, ice cream, butter and milk - can serve as simple staples to any impressive consumable creation.

The expert party and event styling pros at The TomKat Studio offer the following how-to guide for creating a standout wedding reception and dining experience. These unique ideas all feature dairy foods, with a special focus on another timely wedding trend: the rustic theme.

Replace Traditional Wedding Cake with Tiered Cheese Wheels

Add savory to traditional sweets by layering wheels of various Real California cheeses. Style Tip: Display layered cheese cake with paper flags describing the type of cheese for each layer. Follow these steps to make the cake picture perfect: • Keep textures and colors in mind. Neutral-colored rinds offer a rustic look while waxy exteriors boasting yellow or other hues are best for colorful celebrations.

• Cater to different tastes by choosing an array of cheese profiles. For example, pairing salty manchego, buttery Camembert and nutty Swiss-Italian cheeses offer an interesting contrast of flavors.

• For lower tiers, select a hard or semi-hard cheese for a solid foundation. Soft and semi-soft cheese can be used for upper tiers.

• Stacking the wheels works perfectly. Or add complementary preserve spreads or honey as “icing” to adhere the layers. When using crumbly cheeses, add parchment between layers.

• To add edible and non-edible decorations between tiers, place a shallow bowl between the tiers to prop up wheels. Then, decorations can be placed around bowl, camouflaging this structural element between cake layers.

Edible items can include nuts, chocolate, fresh fruit and produce, while flowers and foliage work best for nonedibles.

38 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

Raise a Toast to Cookies and Milk

“Cheers” takes a unique form when warm chocolate chip cookies are wrapped around cold Real California Milk.

Style Tip: Utilize servers to pass out shots for a toast - a real crowd-pleaser for guests of all ages.

Serve Deconstructed Cheesecake

Switch out the traditional cheesecake. Instead, pair delicate squares of cheese with complementary flavors, such as delicious slices of fruits, veggies, spreads and finely sliced meat cuts. Place each bite-sized morsel on upright forks that are lined up within shallow, wooden boxes that are adorned with labels marking each dessert option. Style Tip: Place a Styrofoam layer in boxes and top with salt to hide the foam and to give a clean, white appearance while anchoring forks within each box.

Create a Cool Ice Cream Destination

Put a creamy twist on the traditional lemonade stand.

Scoop Real California ice cream at a wooden ice cream stand, serving the bride’s and groom’s favorite ice cream flavors and toppings. Style Tip: Create custom signage for the mini structure using the newlywed’s names and drill wood planks to serve as cone holders that are displayed on stand while guests wait for their orders.

Send Guests Off with a Midnight Snack Box

Keep guests talking about the fun, memorable evening with a takeaway box filled with a selection of cheese, chocolate and individual milk bottles or champagne splits for guests to enjoy post-wedding. Style Tip: Place contents in reusable wooden, wire or paper box wrapped in wedding colors and customized with the couple’s names and wedding date.

For more dairy recipes and tips, visit realcaliforniamilk.com.

Add a personal pouch to your special day (Family Features) Pinboards are buzzing with endless inspiration, bringing clever and colorful projects to life. For brides to be, the hottest looks in wedding decor can be yours with just a bit of creativity.

The evolution of touch is underway, with fabrics and embellishments featuring texture and intrigue becoming huge hits this bridal season. Take materials such as burlap, chalkboard finishes, monogram letters and mason jars to the next level by mixing and matching with the season’s colors.

Picture your big day with pretty petals adorned in lace offset by rustic trimmings. This understated yet feminine look can be yours with this trending project from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. Take this idea and gather your girlfriends for a pre-wedding craft session.

You’ll love unleashing your creativity as well as the extra bonding time with the girls, all in preparation for the big event.

For more ways to add trending touches to your wedding, visit www.joann.com.

Burlap & Lace Wrapped Floral Centerpiece Crafting time: 1-2 hours Skill level: Some experience necessary

P I Z Z A & R E S TA U R A N T

Supplies and Tools: • Cutting utensils • Pink roses stem • White Queen Ann Lace stem • White hydrangea bush • Light blue small bush • Pink small bush • eal small bush • Teal tall bush • Cream wisteria garland • Panacea cloth-covered wire • Glue gun & Glue sticks • David Tutera burlap ribbon • Mason jar • David Tutera lace ribbon • Panacea crystal clear resin Directions: Trim stems, removing lower foliage. Form a hand-tied bouquet. Tie off with wire. Dribble glue around wire to secure.

Let dry. Wrap burlap ribbon around Mason jar, overlapping 1 inch. Glue seam. Wrap lace around jar and tie in knot.

Pour resin in jar. Follow package instructions. Insert bouquet. Allow to dry.

Parties up to 50 People Bridal Showers Rehersal Dinners Call Vito Valenti to Discuss Your Menu Options Today!

Cold Creek Plaza, Saint Clair • 570.429.1888 Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm • Fri. & Sat. 11am-11pm (Bar open until midnight) • Sun. 11am-8pm

www.vitoscoalfiredpizza.com

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 39

It’s Time To Talk Wills, Finances & Contracts Legal things to consider when you get married Getting married is supposed to be a wonderful time in a person’s life. I actually got engaged over the summer, so I know about all the stresses of planning for the big day. The last thing most people want to think about are legalities of tying the knot. Marriage however does have legal consequences and brings up considerations for the bride and groom to-be.

When planning a wedding, you will likely be signing many legal documents, such as contracts with your reception hall, your videography or even your DJ. If someone who is providing something for your wedding insist on their being a contract. A contract ensures that there are no misunderstandings between you and the person or company providing you with goods or services.

Although many vendors use standard contracts, you should still review the documents to make sure that your understanding of the agreement is accurately reflected in the contract. Be sure to pay attention to the cost paragraphs and look out for additional fees that you may not have considered. Also, you should carefully read the sections that outline what your vendor will be providing to you.

In addition to the contractual issues of the wedding itself, if you or your spouse have any assets prior to the marriage or children from another relationship, you should consider entering a pre-nuptial agreement. I know this is probably the least romantic thing you ask your fiancé for, but it is honestly in the best interest of both of you. A pre-nuptial agreement can help ensure that in the unfortunate event of a divorce, one person does not “lose everything” (as often portrayed by TV shows or movies).

Also remember that within sixty (60) days of your wedding, you will need to obtain a marriage license from your local Register of Wills office. The fee various by county, but is around $50. It is recommended that you apply a few weeks before the big day even though there is only a three day waiting period before the license can be issued.

When you apply, both of you will need to bring your photo identification and social security cards to the Court. It is recommended that you look online prior to going to Court as some counties require you to fill out the form prior to filing for the license.

After you get married, the legal considerations do not stop. Once married, people often begin to “pool” their finances. This is not always a good idea, particularly if your fiancé has debt before the marriage. Even though you do

40 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

not automatically become responsible for your spouse’s debts, if all your money is “pooled” then it may seem like you are paying for the other person’s debts. Remember, the only way you actually become responsible for your spouse’s debt is if you are joint on that account. I recommend that if you have separate debts, then you should maintain separate accounts for the payment of these individual debts and then set up a joint account where you both contribute an equal (or what you consider fair) amount to pay household bills.

After you get married, you and your spouse should also think about drawing up a Will. A Will can be very important if you have children prior to your marriage. Remember that without a Will, PA law gives all your property to your surviving spouse. A Will allows you to give certain assets to your children instead of your spouse. It also you say who should raise any minor children if both natural parents are deceased and who should be controlling any money or property you leave to your minor child.

There are also insurance relating considerations as well.

Remember, you will need to contact your life insurance and retirement accounts to change your beneficiary to your spouse (if you want them to receive these funds of course).

Newlyweds will also have to consider whether it is more cost effective for one spouse to cover the other under health insurance or should each person keep their separate policy.

I hope that this article has helped some future brides and grooms better understand the legalities of getting married.

To all those recently engaged or recently married, I extend my best wishes for a long and happy life together.

Information provided by Christy M. Demelfi, Esq.

The Wedding Coordinator Contract If you or your groom are considering hiring a wedding planner to help you manage all of the details that go into planning a wedding, it is important to know what services and fees are covered in the wedding coordinator contract. Here is a guide on what should be included in your contract as well as what questions to ask when interviewing prospective wedding planners:

Interviewing a potential Wedding Coordinator

While you want a professional planner who is certified and experienced, it is also essential to find someone you feel comfortable with and trust to honor your needs and wants. Compile a list of certified consultants in your area. Set up a consultation with several of the wedding coordinators to find the one who is best for you. Ask the following questions during your consultation: • How long have you been a wedding planner?

• What kind of training, accreditation, and experience do you have?

• How do you charge for services?

• How many times will you meet with me and is there a time limit to each meeting?

• Can you suggest vendors in the area?

• Will you meet with vendors and negotiate their fees and contracts?

• Do you have experience planning weddings with the same budget as ours?

• Have you planned any weddings at the sites we have chosen?

• Are you flexible, professional, organized, and knowledgeable about weddings and will you listen to my needs and wants?

The Wedding Coordinator Contract

Once you have selected a wedding planner who feels like the best

fit for you and your groom, carefully go over the wedding coordinator contract and make sure everyone is clear about what the planner charges, which services are included, and which services have an extra charge. The wedding coordinator contract should have at least the following information: • The coordinator’s fees and how they are assessed – percentage, flat fee, or hourly • The number of times the coordinator will meet with you and your vendors • A description of the services she will provide – This will depend on what you and your groom need—full planning services, partial planning services, or simply to be on hand on the day of the wedding to coordinate the day’s events?

• Fees she charges for extra services, such as preparing and mailing invitations and coordinating the dress rehearsal • Contact information for you and your groom • Your wedding’s location and date • Your deposit amount, amount due, and due date • Cancellation policy • No show policy for the consultant • A backup plan in case of unforeseen mishaps or disasters that are outside the bride and groom’s control A wedding coordinator contract will help you and your groom establish which details of the wedding planning process you want to coordinate and which details you would like your professional planner to take over. Make sure you are clear about the fees and services provided before signing into a contractual agreement.

Christy M. DeMelfi, Esq. Wills & Trusts Real Estate Contracts Tax & Debt Resolution Estate Administration Serving all of Northeastern Pennsylvania

McAdoo, PA • 570.497.5699 www.demelfilaw.com

Licensed in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut

Personal Attention for Every Client Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 41

Setting The Tone Hiring a Band for Your Wedding Music will be the rhythm of the wedding celebration, so it requires special attention during the planning stage. Certain rules apply to the hunt for the perfect band—no matter what sound you’re looking for.

Finding Musicians Begin your search at least six months before the wedding day by deciding which musical direction best suits the tone and atmosphere of the reception you are planning. If it’s something traditional (such as a contemporary band with a vocalist or two), think of weddings you’ve attended, and contact the musicians who impressed you. Word of mouth is the best endorsement; friends and relatives may have suggestions, and wedding planners, event coordinators, florists, caterers, and photographers can all be terrific and reliable sources.

If you are interested in something more unusual, you’ll need to be more resourceful in your search. Nothing prohibits you from offering the gig to the local band you love, but when hiring bands unaccustomed to playing at weddings, be very clear about the arrangements.

Entertainment Agencies Your search may lead to an entertainment agency that will work with you to define your musical requirements and budget and to find the right musicians. All such agencies should offer the opportunity to “audition” various bands—some with audiotapes, some with videotapes, still others by encouraging the couple to attend a function at which the band is performing. If you hear a band you like, make sure that what you’ve heard is what you’ll get—don’t sign on for “a female singer,” sign on for the specific person whose voice wowed you.

Judging Quality Susan de Bois, of de Bois Productions in Los Angeles, says that to be assured of a tight sound, hire a band that works together regularly. Also, take stock of the venues where the band has performed, as this will reflect its level of professionalism. And of course, ask for references. A satisfied former client is the best referral; if reassurance from past clients isn’t forthcoming, there is probably a reason.

The Contract The magic of the music won’t be ruined by nailing down the business arrangements. The contract you draw up with the musicians should spell out every detail of the terms of their hiring, from the names of each of the principal band members to a specific song list (or at least a musical style). It should cover the logistics of arrival, setup, and departure times; liabilityinsurance coverage; payment schedule; attire; food and drinks for the band; break times; transportation arrangements; and provisions for overtime and other unforeseeable costs.

Band Size In considering the size of the band, both budget and venue will be factors. Even if the budget can accommodate eighteen

42 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

players, the size of the room and its acoustics may dictate a more intimate sound. Access to a piano may be an issue: If a keyboard won’t do, be sure to inquire whether the site includes a piano or can accommodate a rental. The following cost estimates apply to traditional wedding bands; costs may be significantly lower or higher for alternative choices.

As a general guideline, a well-rounded band will consist of six to ten musicians, made up of a rhythm section (piano or keyboard, bass, drums, and guitar), a small horn section comprising saxophone, trumpet, and trombone (one to three horns is average), and a “hands-free” (non-instrument-playing) vocalist. Other members of the band may also be expected to sing, but a dedicated vocalist—or two—is the norm. Estimating $400 per musician for a four-hour reception, the musician fees for a six-to-ten-member group should average between $2,400 and $4,000. A fuller sound (appropriate for big-band or Latin music) will generally involve additional horns (up to fifteen), and fees will begin to approach $10,000. Overtime will generally be prorated in half-hour increments.

Breaks A set number of breaks for the band will need to be specified, typically three or four during the course of a four-hour reception—one twenty-minute meal break and the rest around ten or fifteen minutes. If arrangements have been made for continuous play, the band members will alternate breaks, so there will be seamless music and no need to use recorded music to fill in the gaps. If not, the bandleader will be responsible for playing select recorded music through the breaks. No matter what, the musicians must be fed, although they don’t need to be included in the guest count. Ask the hotel or caterer about vendor meals, which they should offer at a reasonable price.

Music Choices To satisfy a broad age range of guests, most wedding bands will play a wide variety of music, including songs from the 1930s to present-day hits. Professional bands have hundreds of songs in their repertoire. At the first meeting with the bandleader, he or she should have a menu from which you can select both the types of music and the specific songs

you’d like the band to perform (or not perform). Should you want a popular song played that isn’t in the band’s repertoire, the band will likely offer to learn the song (but there may be fees associated).

Many couples prefer to limit their input to tried-and-true categories such as swing, fifties favorites, Motown, or disco. If you want more unusual choices, you can add them to the mix; but keep in mind that guests are more likely to enjoy music they know than music they don’t. A larger wedding may call for a less adventurous song list; tastes will be more diverse, and too many unfamiliar songs may sap the energy in the room.

the entrance of the bride and groom, until their first dance.

The first dance is a pivotal musical moment, with all eyes on the newlyweds and all ears on the band. If the bride and groom have “a song,” now is the time to share it. If not, they may choose a romantic classic or go all out and embrace the drama of the moment—there is no rule saying the first dance can’t be a tango.

Meal Time

Energy comes not just from the songs the band plays but from the pace as well. Music acts as a subliminal “map” during a wedding reception, helping to guide the mood of the celebration.

After the first dance, it’s common for the band to play something upbeat and celebratory—a swing tune, or, at a Jewish wedding, the hora—to invite all the guests onto the dance floor. From here, a balance of light dance tunes and more subtle background music, echoing the pace and service of the dinner, with the lightest accompaniment during the main course, is preferable so guests can relax while they eat and easily engage in conversation.

Cocktail Hour

The Final Stretch

Pacing

A small jazz combo (or one or two members of the band) playing standards is a popular choice for the arrival of the guests and for the cocktail hour, offering a pleasant and slightly sexy contrast to the more formal music played during the ceremony. Alternatively, and if a different kind of elegance is preferred, the string quartet engaged for the ceremony can also be hired to play during the cocktail hour.

First Dance As the cocktail hour winds down, the full band will begin playing and will continue to play while guests are seated through

After the main course is served, it is generally the fatherdaughter dance that reopens the dance floor. The couple should be sure to tell the musicians before the wedding how they’d like the song to be introduced, how long to sustain the solitary father-daughter spotlight before the groom and his mother join in or get up to dance to their own special song, and how verbal, or not, the bandleader should be in coaxing the other guests to the dance floor. This moment will help set the tone for the reception’s final stage—a lasting stretch of festive, energetic music and dancing.

Information provided by www.marthastewartweddings.com.

Phone: (570) 574-0893

Email: jon.hoegg@rcn.com

Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter • 43

Top Wedding Cake Tips Picking the perfect wedding cake Do you know everything there is to know about wedding cakes? The more informed you are, the better the decisions you will make. We’ve got you covered with our top tips.

Taste the Cake

As you start setting up appointments, find out when each baker’s next tasting is scheduled. At tastings, clients are invited into the bakery to sample exemplary cakes, ask questions, and review portfolios. This is an excellent opportunity to meet bakers and fully understand the range of their abilities.

Select a Style

Deal with the cake after all decisions about dress style and reception decor have been made. These elements can serve as a blueprint for the design and structure of your wedding cake.

Choose a cake that’s compatible with the style of the venue, the season, your gown, the flower arrangements, or the menu.

If you want colorful accents (such as sugar flowers or icing ribbons), give your baker fabric swatches. The cake should be part of the wedding, not a glaring sideshow.

Size It Up

Generally, three tiers will serve 50 to 100 guests; you’ll likely need five layers for 200 guests or more. If the reception is in a grand room with high ceilings, consider increasing the cake’s stature with columns between the tiers. (A “stacked” cake is one with its layers stacked directly atop each other, with no separators.)

Consider the Weather

If you’re having an outdoor wedding in a hot climate, stay away from whipped cream, meringue, and buttercream: They melt. Ask your baker about summer icing options; You might want to go for a fondant-covered cake -- it doesn’t even need to be refrigerated.

Mind Your Magazines

Price It Out

Wedding cake often is priced by the slice -- the cost varies, but generally ranges from $1.50 to $15 per slice (though this is a very general and loose estimate). The more complicated the cake (based on intricate decorations or hard-to-find fillings), the higher the price tag. Fondant icing is more expensive than buttercream, and if you want elaborate molded shapes, vibrant colors, or handmade sugar-flower detailing, you’ll pay for the cake designer’s labor.

Keep in mind, magazines (like ours) have food stylists, editors, and assistants working nonstop to keep the cakes looking perfect. These people spend hours fixing the sweating, dripping, leaning, or sagging that can happen to a cake after it’s been sitting for a while. And if what they do doesn’t work, they can fix it with Photoshop. They also have the luxury of creating cakes from stuff that isn’t edible -- most cakes in magazines are iced pieces of Styrofoam, which certainly doesn’t taste very good. So don’t expect your cake designer to be able to replicate exactly what you see in print.

Find Ways to Save

Take Note: It’s All in the Details

Order a small cake that’s decorated to perfection but can only feed a handful plus several sheet cakes of the same flavor to actually feed the guests. Stay away from tiers, handmade sugar flowers, and specially molded shapes. Garnish with seasonal flowers and fruit for an elegant (but less expensive) effect. If you’ll have a dessert table (or another sweet) in addition to the cake, consider a cake sized for half your guests. Servings will be smaller, but the fee will shrink too.

Get the Facts on Frosting

Buttercream or fondant? That’s the main question. Buttercream is often much more delicious. But if you love the smooth, almost surreal-like look of fondant as much as we do, consider frosting the cake in buttercream first and then adding a layer of fondant over the entire confection.

44 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

When it comes to decoration, adornment costs run the gamut.

The most inexpensive option is fresh fruits or flowers that, in some instances, can be applied by your florist for a minimal fee. On the high end are delicate gum paste or sugar paste flowers, which are constructed by hand, one petal at a time.

But here’s the bottom line: All add-ons -- including marzipan fruits, chocolate-molded flowers, and lace points -- will raise the rate. (For the record, we think it’s worth the cost!)

Encourage Cake Collaboration

If you want to garnish your cake with fresh flowers, find out if the cake designer will work with your florist, or if you are responsible for the blooms. If the florist is running the show, will she have time to adorn the cake? Be wary of elaborate floral accents if your reception space decor is labor-intensive.

Get Him Involved!

The popularity of the groom’s cake, traditionally a Southern custom, is on the rise. The bride’s cake -- the one cut by the couple at the reception -- is traditionally eaten as dessert. The groom’s cake is usually darker and richer (often chocolate) and nowadays crafted to show off the groom’s passions and obsessions. Give slices to guests as a take-home memento or cut and serve both for dessert.

Go Mini?

Many bakers agree that the idea of a mini cake (where each guest gets his or her own) is a great idea -- in theory but not always in practice. Not only does each cake require its own decoration (often as intricate, if not more, than one that’s four times its size), each will require its own box. Unfortunately, boxes don’t come in mini-cake sizes. Often the bakery must construct individual boxes in which to transport these cakes.

Multiply by however many guests you’ll be having, and you’ll see what a costly, time-consuming feat this actually is. That said, if you can swing it, they look amazing being passed around by waiters on sleek silver trays (and of course, they taste just as great too).

Get It On Display

Your cake will likely be on display before it’s cut and consumed. Make sure there is a designated cake table that allows the most elegant presentation possible. A round table is perfect for round cakes, but a linear cake design may call for a rectangular table. Figure out your options. Once you have a cake table, have fun dressing it up: Drape it with sumptuous fabrics and decorate it with motifs, colors, and flowers to match

The Panorama Magazine Wedding Edition

the cake (your florist can help).

Top It Off

There are many beautiful and unique ways to top off your cake, so you can avoid plastic figurines (unless you’re going for cool-kitsch). If you have an heirloom piece -- especially a fine porcelain antique -- work with your baker to integrate it into an appropriate design. A pair of sugar or gingerbread cookies can look charming atop a country wedding cake. Finely sculpted maple sugar or marzipan figurines are quaint. Other alternatives: a bouquet of sugar flowers, a cascade of icing ribbons, or even a sugar block carved out to reveal your new monogram.

Lock Down Delivery Details

Cake delivery takes coordination. Complex cakes may not necessarily be delivered in final form. Allow time and space for assembly, if needed. Refrigeration may also be required. For more on last-minute details, review our Points for the Contract .

After the Wedding...

Avoid freezer burn! Even if you take the most painstaking packaging measures, eating the top tier of your cake on your first anniversary sounds far better than it tastes. Think about indulging on your two-week or one-month anniversary, and treat yourself to a fresh cake in the same flavor when you’ve survived the first year. If you must adhere to tradition, wrap the cake in plastic wrap, then bag it in an airtight baggie. Stay away from aluminum foil -- it might not protect against freezer burn as well as plastic wrap because it’s not an airtight material.

Provided by www.TheKnot.com

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CACL Financial

Skuba Entertainment

1180 Centre Turnpike, Orwigsburg 570-366-1071 • www.arkrentals.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 15 289 Airport Road, Suite 109, Hazle Township 570-497-4321 • Find us on Facebook See our ad on page 25 1800 W. Market Street, Pottsville 570-628-2400 • www.caclfcu.org Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 48

2283 W. Market Street, Pottsville 570-622-2144 • Find us on Facebook See our ad on page 33 877 W. Market Street, Orwigsburg 570-366-0622 • www.schuylkillcc.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 2

800-261-1802 • www.skubaentertainment.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 3

Candlewood Suites Hazleton

Smilax Floral Shop and Gifts

Christy M. Demelfi, Esq.

The Jon Hoegg Trio

9 Bowmans Mill Road, Hazleton 570-459-1600 • www.candlewoodsuites.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 5

570-497-5699 or 570-427-8409 www.demelfilaw.com • Find us on Facebook See our ad on page 41

1221 W. 15th Street, Hazleton 570-454-0111 • www.smilaxflorals.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 31

570-574-0893 See our ad on page 43

Di Blasi Styles

The Lodge at Sharp Mountain

Grand Central

The Pines Eatery and Spirits

129 W. Warren Street, Hazleton 570501-2603 • Find us on Facebook See our ad on page 27 2 Convenient Locations: 40 S. Vine Street, Hazleton • 570-454-6661 Inside the Laurel Mall, Hazle Township • 570-497-4161 www.shopgrandcentral.com • See our ad on page 47

Houck Homes, Inc.

Route 61 – 1365 Pottsville Pike, Shoemakersville 610-562-5128 • www.houckhomesinc.com See our ad on page 35

Milcis Events

201 S. 26th Street, Pottsville 570-622-0622 • www.lodgeatsharpmtn.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 37

8 W. Broad Street, Suite 50, Hazleton 570-501-0330 • www.thepineseatery.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 9

Top of the 80s

Route 93 & I-81, West Hazleton 570-454-8795 • www.topofthe80s.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 21

The Woodlands

100 W. Broad Street, Hazleton 570-710-7141 • See our ad on page 23

1073 Airport Road, Suite 7, Wilkes-Barre 800-762-2222 • www.thewoodlandsresort.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 17

Paradise Tanning

Valley Country Club

Remember When Video

Vito’s Coal Fired Pizza & Restaurant

741 Airport Road, Suite 7, Hazle Township 570-579-4499 • www.paradisetanning.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 19 402 Green Street, Brockton 570-668-2444 • www.rememberwhenvideo.net Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 15

46 • Bride & Groom Magazine: Fall/Winter 2016

79 Country Club Lane, Sugarloaf 570-788-1112 • www.thevalleycountryclub.com Find us on Facebook • See our ad on page 2 Cold Creek Plaza, Saint Clair 570-429-1888 • www.vitoscoalfiredpizza.com Find us on Facebook• See our ad on page 39

LIVING ROOM Starting At $1099

Find Everything You Need To Begin Your New Life Together

(Sofa, Loveseat, 3 Pc. Table Set, Set of Lamps)

DINING ROOM $549

(Table, 4 Chairs, and a Bench)

BEDROOM $1299

(5 Piece Set. Black or white. No mattress included)

Visit Our Website And Start Your Bridal Registry Now!

AMANA $699

Washer & Electric Dryer Set

DYSON VACCUM 5 Year Warranty.

We service it here.

$399

Furniture • Mattresses • Appliances • Electronics

570-454-6661 -OR- 570-497-4161 2 LOCATIONS: 40 S. Vine Street, Hazleton • Inside the Laurel Mall, Hazle Twp.

CACL FINANCIAL

CACLFCU.ORG

NEED A LOAN?

GET .25% OFF YOUR NEW LOAN! Must present coupon at the time of loan application.

Limit one coupon per person. Eligible on all auto/vehicle and signature loans. Expires 12/31/16

1800 W Market St. Pottsville, Pa 17901 (570) 628-2400 | CACLFCU.ORG

1800 W Market St. Pottsville, Pa 17901

(570) 628-2400 CACLFCU.org

OPEN A NEW ACCOUNT AND WE’LL DEPOSIT $1O INTO THE ACCOUNT Must present coupon at the time of account opening.

Limit one coupon per person. Expires 12/31/16 1800 W Market St. Pottsville, Pa 17901

(570) 628-2400 CACLFCU.org