Brides & Weddings January 2017

Move over .com .wed is here!

visit www.get.wed

SPECIAL OFFER: $20 DISCOUNT ON THE PURCHASE OF A 1 YEAR .WED REGISTRATION. USE PROMOCODE LV6VT43SB2 AT WWW.NOMINATE.WED TODAY!

Looking for a dramatic setting for your wedding or reception?

For an event as unique as you are For your personal tour contact Susan Landess, Sales Manager, at 703-993-9344 or slandess@gmu.edu HyltonCenter.org/Rentals Find us on Facebook www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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True Love Stories never have endings...

Our elegant clubhouse and breathtaking views of the Potomac River will leave a memorable impression on all of your guests. Classic elegance, fine service 43800 Olympic Boulevard, Leesburg and exquisite cuisine set us apart. Let 703.779.2022 us effortlessly orchestrate all the details. www.rivercreekclub.com Photography: Djijo Studios; Gown & Veil: Soliloquy Bridal Couture; Hair & Makeup: Enlightened Styles; Jewelry: Hunt Country Jewelers; Flowers: Buttercups Florals; Cake: Cake Panache.

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create your beginnings with us.

Your wedding day should be one of your fondest memories Allow us to make you a guest at your own party. We’ll be there through each step of the planning process, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your special day.

Every detail of your event is completely customized to reflect your individual style and taste.

14675 Piedmont Vista Dr., Haymarket • 703.753.5922 Ext. 225 • www.piedmontclub.com We offer gorgeous ceremonies on our patio adjacent to our ballroom or by beautiful Lake Chantilly. Accommodating up to 225 guests, our flexible setup options with dark wood Chiavari chairs, new cherry wood dance floor, neutral décor and rustic chandeliers will set the tone for your classic country club wedding. And, best of all, we schedule only one wedding a day — allowing all the focus on you!

14901 Braddock Road, Chantilly • 703.631.9560 • www.chantilly-national.com

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e are excited about the new year and the changes that 2017 brings! New things will be happening soon at bridesandweddings.com. You can already read the fresh daily content we provide to help inspire and plan your nuptuals.

Our website, www.bridesandweddings.com, is the go-to resource for Northern Virginia brides and grooms.

There you will find the people and places to Rebecca Barnes make your perfect wedding day. You can use keywords that reflect your wedding vision in our search bar and discover the best in Northern Virginia wedding professionals. Or sign up for our newsletter to receive special offers and calendar of events — from bridal shows to bridal shops. Read our blog, enter contests or follow us on social media for the latest information.

Our wedding guide is packed with helpful tips, stories, timelines and photos to help create the perfect wedding for you. We give you the knowledge you need to make your planning successful, and less stressful, along with showcasing some of the top wedding professionals in Northern Virginia.

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by Rob Jinks Photography 4

But the best part about Brides & Weddings is relationships. We are your friends and neighbors. Large enough to have resources, but small enough to serve you as a friend. My commitment to engaged couples is to make your journey to your wedding day as smooth as possible, by providing ideas, resources and maybe a little bit of inspiration for your celebration.

This is the first day of the rest of your lives. What matters is that you are creating not a day, but a lifetime together.

Thank you for taking the time to be a part of the Brides & Weddings community. Best wishes for a beautiful wedding and a happy marriage.

Rebecca Barnes P u b l i s h e r

of Northern Virginia

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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IN THIS ISSUE 20

THREE ESSENTIAL MONEY TOPICS TO DISCUSS BEFORE MARRIAGE How to have a grown-up conversation about wedding expenses.

AE Landes

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14 QUESTIONS

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HOTELS — YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP

What to ask your caterer.

Flexible space, all-inclusive receptions and your guests under one roof.

DG Photography

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A BAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK Sip and save.

Fleurtations Florals

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TIPS FOR TIPPING

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RECEPTION GUIDE

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WEDDING CAKES WITH STYLE

The who, what, when, where & why of vendor gratuities.

Find the best venue for your event.

Get the one that suits you.

Cakes by Happy Eatery

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WEDDINGS

should be

FUN Awesome, A wesome, A Awesome, wesome,

AWESOME! A WESOME WESOME!

T This his vvenue enue is

T The he sstaff taff is be beyond yo ond

STUNNING! STUNNING! W WONDERFUL! ONDERFUL! UL!

P Phone hone 7703.910.4273 03.910.4273 inf info@harbourviewevents.com o@harbourviewevents.com ffacebook.com/harbourviewevents acebook.com/harbourviewevents w ww.HarbourViewEvents.com www.HarbourViewEvents.com

Come visit the only waterfront waterfront w edding vvenue enue specializin Come wedding specializingg in FUN!

...AND MORE

Cakes by Happy Eatery

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HERE COMES THE BRIDE

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DESIGNER SHOWCASES

Where to find the dress of your dreams.

Beautiful gowns from Maggie Sottero.

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DO OR DIY

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WEDDING FLOWER REALNESS

Do you REALLY want to do that?

From bouquets & boutonnieres to ceremonies & receptions in flowers.

DG Photography

Rob Jinks

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THE WEDDING GALLERY

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PARADISE FOUND

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DIRECTORY OF SERVICES

Take a stroll through these wedding day images.

Some of our favorite exotic places for your honeymoon.

A handy list of wedding pros.

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rebecca Barnes Director of Operations & Photo Editor . . . . . . . Amanda Baity Art Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holli Rathman The Staff Ashleigh Balsamo, Caitlin Stephens, Laura Dickey, Robyn Dickey Brides & Weddings is published twice yearly and distributed free of charge through area jewelers, bridal salons, venues, and bridal shows as well as NoVA Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s bridal registries. Find us online at www.bridesandweddings.com.

For advertising opportunities, call 703.847.7412 ext. 3 or email sales@bridesandweddings.com. www.facebook.com/bridesandweddings Copyright 2017 Brides & Weddings

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Your Guide to an

Exceptional Event

P

utting together a great wedding doesn’t happen by accident. It takes careful planning and the enlistment of talented event professionals. Use the following tips to help plan your perfect day.

Take some time and visualize your event — close your eyes and walk through it in as much detail as you can, from start to finish. This takes a little time, but you’ll find that it enhances creativity and helps you anticipate and avoid problems.

Your site sets the tone for the experience. Make sure your site fits the guest list — don’t try to squeeze too many people into the venue. And don’t pick a huge site that will make a small gathering feel uncomfortable. And remember, you’re not just choosing a site for an event — you’re also choosing a backdrop for your wedding photos.

Be clear about your reception’s purpose: This helps you create the right setting, mood and format. For example, if you want your guests to mix and mingle, don’t choose a sitdown dinner. A buffet or stations create far better movement and interaction.

Define your event’s personality: If your rehearsal dinner is going to be the first time that families meet, your goal is to put everyone at ease. Even the most elegant and expensive party will flop if the food, location or format makes your guests feel uncomfortable.

Include the right people in the planning process: Think about the stakeholders in your event. You don’t need to bring them all together in one room, but enlisting their help in thinking through each phase of the planning assures a smoother and more rewarding event.

Create a master plan: Put everything on paper and in your trusty binder. Writing down each step helps you spot things before they cause a problem. Include week by week and day by day action steps, identifying who’s responsible for what. Include all vendor contact information in this plan.

Work closely with the experts: The more your wedding professionals understand your event, the more value they are to you. Make sure your wedding partners understand your budget. Take a few minutes to talk about what you’ve liked (or haven’t liked) at other weddings. Experts can use this information to make suggestions and create just the right event for you. Look for vendors who can help you handle more than one aspect of your event. A caterer can help you with rental items and decor, and give valuable recommendations for sites, floral designers, bakers and entertainment.

Keep everyone in the loop: Set up a website. This is particularly valuable so out of town guests can see where you have booked a block of guest rooms. Use the website to give a schedule of events, RSVPs, directions to the ceremony and reception sites and other important details.

Be prepared for emergencies: By thinking about them ahead of time, we can keep little crises from becoming disasters. Have a list of taxicab services handy for those who have had too much to drink. A first aid kit is always a good thing to have, and find out if any of your guests know CPR. ♥

By Michael Evans Michael Evans is the owner of Helga’s Caterers in McLean. To schedule a consultation regarding your reception, rehearsal dinner or guest brunch, call 703.556.0780.

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Washington’sBest Kept Wedding Secret...

...but not for long.

From traditional military weddings to contemporary civilian celebrations, Fort Myer Officers’ Club welcomes all. We’ll exceed your expectations with customized all-inclusive reception packages for one-stop shopping, superb cuisine from award-winning Five Star Catering, and a gorgeous Grand Ballroom that seats up to 280 with an extra large dance floor.

★★★★★

Fort MyerOfficers’Club

Featuring Five Star Catering

Meeting your needs … exceeding your expectations.

214 Jackson Avenue, Fort Myer, Virginia 22211

703.524.0200 www.jbmhhmwr.com

delightful

Diamonds R

ings signify so many things: The love of another, the joining of two lives, and most importantly, the start of a family. They may be the only pieces of jewelry you will wear day after day for the rest of your lives. Perhaps these rings may even be passed down through generations.

You need to make sure the rings you choose suit your personal style and are comfortable enough for daily wear. Choose a jeweler you trust -- one who has a large selection and welcomes the chance to special order, custom make and engrave your bands. Start looking for wedding bands six to eight weeks prior to the big day to give time for special orders, sizing and engraving.

In terms of diamond wedding bands, choose a style that goes well with your engagement ring. A wedding band should act as a nice complement to your ring, not overpower it. Ask your jeweler how the rings sit together. Some styles tend to rub together, causing accelerated wear of the prongs and loosen your diamond. Try to keep the diamonds in your wedding band the same general quality as those in your engagement ring. They do not need to be exact, but keeping the same color and clarity is recommended.

For those who think diamond terminology sounds like a foreign language, here’s a quick beginners course on the “4-C’s”.

Carat: The actual weight. Diamonds are weighted in carats and increments of a carat called points. One hundred points are equivalent to one carat: The larger the diamond, the more rare and valuable.

Color: Diamonds range from colorless, the most rare and valuable, through “fancy” colors of yellow, pink, blue, green, purple and others. There may be only a small tinge of body color in the diamond but this may very well affect the quality and price. White diamonds are graded D color and up. All diamonds D-F are considered “colorless”.

Diamonds G-J are considered nearly colorless.

Clarity: The degree to which a diamond is free from inclusions (characteristics showing that the diamond is of natural origin). A flawless diamond is very rare. The physical size, quantity, location, type and color of inclusions within the diamond are what separate each grade. GIA, the Gemology Institute of America (which grades diamonds and determines their clarity), classifies diamonds IF (internally flawless), VVS1 (very, very slightly included 1), VVS2, etc. All diamonds from IF to SI1 are flawless to the naked eye.

Cut: The physical shape of the diamond and how well it is proportioned. A diamond cut too shallow or too deep does not take best advantage of reflecting light back through the top of the stone. A well-proportioned diamond allows the greatest fire and brilliance.

It is important to remember that you do not need a D/IF diamond for it to be beautiful.

Rather, it is important to choose a diamond with the greatest carat, cut, color and clarity that meets your price range. Finding the right combination is the best way to ensure you are choosing the most beautiful diamond for you. ♥ 14

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Photo credit: Jessica Green Photography

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a diamond is

Forever The following merchants are happy to assist you and your fiance in finding the perfect engagement and wedding rings. Please let them know that you found them in Brides & Weddings of Northern Virginia.

Achikian Goldsmiths 140 Church Street NW, Vienna (703) 255-2255 www.achikian.com

Belle View Jewelers Belle View Shopping Center, Alexandria (703) 768-4900 www.belleviewjewelersva.com

Adeler Jewelers 772-E Walker Road, Great Falls (703) 759-4076 www.adelerjewelers.com

Boone & Sons 1320 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean (703) 734-3997 www.booneandsons.com

Ashby Jewelers 9407 Main Street, Manassas (703) 368-4653 www.ashbyjewelers.com

Caulkins Jewelers 36 Catoctin Circle SE #B, Leesburg (703) 777-1108 www.caulkinsjewelers.com

B & C Jewelers Bradlee Shopping Center, Alexandria (703) 379-6010 www.bcjewelers.net

Daniel Roberts Fine Jewelers 10254 Main Street, Fairfax (703) 734-7770 www.danielrobertsfinejewelers.com

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Eternity Jewelers 267 South Van Dorn Street, Alexandria (703) 823-0691

Mervis Diamond Importers 1900 Mervis Way, Tysons Corner (703) 448-9000

Express Jewelers Ballston Common Mall, Arlington (703) 351-7481

1700 K Street NW, Washington DC (202) 293-0600

Exquisite Jewelers 8404-A Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield (703) 912-5739 Five Star Jewelers 5765 Burke Centre Pkwy #S (703) 239-1300 www.fivestarjewelers.net

Salona Jewelers 1333 Chain Bridge Road, McLean (703) 848-2660 www.salonajewelers.com

Hunt Country Jewelers Custom Bridal Jewelry Specialists 105 East Main Street, Purcellville (540) 338-8050 www.huntcountry.com

Solovey Jewelers 1475 Chain Bridge Road, McLean (703) 356-0138 www.solovey.com

The Jewelers Workshop 169-B Broadview Avenue, Warrenton (540) 347-1761 Jewelry by Designs 2932 Prince William Pky., Woodbridge (703) 580-8880 www.jewelrybydesigns.com

May Jewelers 8032 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner (703) 448-0866 www.mayjewelers.com

1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville (301) 231-0030 www.mervisdiamond.com Princess Jewelers 529 Maple Avenue, Vienna (703) 255-5050 www.princessjeweler.com

Hartman Jewelers 36 Main Street, Warrenton (540) 349-4123 www.hartmanjewelers.com

Ketterman’s Jewelers 38-C Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg (703) 777-0033 www.kettermans.com

5480 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase (301) 215-9500

Touch of Gold Fine Jewelry 202-A Washington Street, Occoquan (703) 490-4544 www.touchofgoldva.com Watch & Jewelry Exchange of Tysons 8150 Leesburg Pike, Vienna (703) 893-0566 www.watchandjewelryexchange.com VA Gold Buyers 21580 Atlantic Boulevard, Sterling (703) 444-7804 www.vagoldbuyers.com Waldin Jewelers Dulles Town Center, Sterling (703) 421-0030 www.waldinjewelers.com

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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TYING THE KNOT IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA

The legal age for marriage is 18 years old. Couples under 18 must have parental consent.

Blood tests are not required. There is no waiting period and licenses are valid for 60 days.

Both bride and groom must be present to apply for and sign the marriage license.

Identification (i.e. driver's license or military ID) must include a photo and social security number. Divorce/death information regarding previous marriages must be provided under oath. Cost is $30 (cash), with the exception of Prince William County ($32.50 cash). Call your location for office hours.

ALEXANDRIA CITY Alexandria Circuit Court, Clerk's Office Marriage License Division, 3rd Floor, Rm. 307 520 King Street, Alexandria 703.838.4044

FAUQUIER COUNTY Fauquier County Circuit Court Clerk's Office 40 Culpeper Street, Warrenton 540.347.8610

ARLINGTON COUNTY Arlington County Courthouse 6th Floor, Room 6700 1425 North Courthouse Road, Arlington 703.228.4510

LOUDOUN COUNTY Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk's Office, 3rd Door 18 North King Street, Leesburg 703.777.0270

FAIRFAX COUNTY Clerk of the Circuit Court Public Services Counter, 3rd Floor 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax 703.691.7320

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY Courthouse Station 3rd Floor, Suite 301 9309 Center Street, Manassas 703.792.6019

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estled in picturesque Loudoun County, Virginia, Oatlands Historic House and Gardens boasts more than 200 years of history and 30 years as a wedding venue. The mansion and beautifully terraced landscapes offer the perfect setting for exchanging your vows, enjoying cocktails, and exploring the 4.5 acre formal gardens.

20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln. Leesburg, VA 20175 703. 7 7 7. 3174

For your reception, celebrate under an elegant tent on either on the mansion’s front lawn or paved terrace near the historic greenhouse, or in the 1903 Carriage house. The gardens, grounds, history, and stunning vistas provide a charming and timeless setting for your special day.

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3

essential money topics to Discuss Before Marriage

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hen couples tie the knot, they make a commitment to stand by one another, for richer or poorer.

Despite this earnest vow, money is a common source of marital strife at all economic levels. Money is so central to our daily lives that conflicting financial beliefs and behaviors can spill into all areas of married life.

Communication is key to avoiding surprises, promoting cooperation and creating harmony in your new financial life together. Before reciting your marriage vows, take time to understand the state of your pending economic union. A joint household will fare better when both of you are open and honest about all of your money matters. As you learn more about yourself and one another, you’ll be better able to manage your own expectations and respect the choices of your new spouse.

Here are three money topics that deserve discussion before you walk down the aisle:

1.

What does money mean to you? This is a big, broad question, but it can uncover what’s at the heart of many financial disagreements. Examining closely held beliefs about money is a healthy part of personal development. You can assess your financial values by answering smaller questions like these: Do you equate money with success?

Is your bank account a measure of your mood or self-worth? Do you prefer to spend or save? Is it ever okay to borrow money? What’s your philosophy about giving?

Explore where your thinking differs and try to find common ground. The value you each attach to money will affect how much time you dedicate to earning, how much you set aside for the future and how you approach spending. In a similar way, what you believe about gender roles and responsibilities can influence your financial behavior and what you expect from your partner.

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money topics — c o n t i n u e d Different personal beliefs about money can cause rifts between couples because they are so deeply ingrained and personal. It may help to realize how your earliest experiences shaped your money mindset. For example, if you grew up poor, you may be anxious about even small expenditures. Acknowledging this concern can diminish its power to overtake common sense. Likewise, if you grew up in a wealthy home, you may spend without a care in the world, even when your bank account does not match your lifestyle. Recognizing this trait in yourself might compel you to adopt a more disciplined approach to spending.

Try to be more self-aware of how your attitudes and beliefs affect your actions and remain open to fresh perspectives that foster rewarding financial behaviors.

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What’s your financial history: Income, savings, debt and credit rating? It’s important to know what the other person will bring to the marriage. Both parties should fully disclose any obligations that will affect your household’s credit worthiness or interfere with your financial goals. Even modest debt or a substandard credit rating can affect your ability to purchase a house or obtain a car loan.

The revelation of adverse credit or a ballooning college loan can be a deal breaker for some, but more commonly it provides the opportunity for couples to work together to correct past mistakes and move forward. By rolling up your sleeves and tackling debt together, you can start your married life with a renewed commitment to financial responsibility.

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money topics — c o n t i n u e d 3.

What are your financial hopes and dreams? Entering into a lifelong relationship is exciting, but also a little frightening. Soon you will be accountable not only to yourself, but also to your spouse. Do you both want the same kind of future? Big questions such as whether to have a family, where to live and the type of work you pursue will affect your financial goals. Smaller questions about things such as how much you spend on your hobbies or what kinds of vacations you take can reveal gaps. Again, ongoing conversations about your financial aspirations will go a long way toward helping you achieve your goals.

While it’s important to have small and large goals, it’s equally important to be flexible. Strong relationships endure when people are able to compromise and adapt to changing circumstances.

Remain committed to financial honesty.

Keep the lines of communication open to prevent financial matters from derailing your marriage. Sit down often to review income, savings and spending, and make time to talk about your financial hopes and dreams. Meet with a financial advisor who can help you create a plan for your financial future. Annual or more frequent meetings with your advisor can help you stay on track over the years as your needs and goals evolve. The more collaborative and mindful you can be about your money, the stronger your relationship will be. ♥

By Bennett Whitlock Bennett Whitlock, CRPC ®, is a private wealth advisor and managing director with Whitlock Wealth Management, a franchise of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Learn more at WhitlockWealth.com or call 703-492-7732.

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Arlington at Ballston

"Let us take care of everything...

So you can focus on your family" • • • •

Grand Ballroom for up to 180 guests Inclusive BRIDAL Suite for Wedding Night Customized WEDDING Packages & On-site coordination Complimentary Metro shuttle & Free parking for all

www.hairlington.com I 703-243-9800 4610 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203 www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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14 Questions to Ask Your Caterer

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ood and catering typically comprise one of the largest portions of a wedding budget. Whether it's a local vendor who provides cuisine specific to your wedding theme or a full-service caterer equipped to help make your day seamless, asking the following questions can help to ensure your wedding food and reception will be unforgettable for you and your guests: Do you specialize in a certain type of food or serving style? Whether you’re looking for a certain serving style, or a specific cuisine to coordinate with your wedding theme, it’s important to find out how your caterer typically handles receptions. Ask if menus are set or if there’s the option for customization.

Can you make a family favorite recipe for our reception? Some caterers are willing and able to recreate the dish on a large scale for all of your wedding guests if you provide them with the recipe.

Have you previously worked at our wedding venue? Many venues provide a list of preferred or exclusive caterers while other locations may not have any restrictions. Make sure the caterer has at least done a walk-through at the site to know how the kitchen is set up, where their staging area will be, and how the reception will be laid out. And if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect wedding venue, your caterer may be able to point you in the direction of a location that can accommodate your guest list and wedding theme.

Are you licensed and insured in the state of ___? Some venues require proof of insurance for outside vendors and/or a liquor license if there is going to be a bar. You will want to make note of this early and discuss this requirement with your caterer prior to booking.

Will someone be there to oversee the event? On the day of the wedding it will be important that someone experienced is there to coordinate the event from set up to break down to ensure that everything runs as planned.

Can you break down the anticipated costs of our reception? It is crucial to determine what is included in the cost per person, any staffing and/or set up expenses, and whether or not equipment rentals are included. When discussing rentals, be sure to inquire about color options to customize your event and match your color scheme.

What are your payment policies for deposits, cancellations, overtime, and gratuity? Figuring out the company’s payment methods and policies will help to make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to securing your wedding date, as well as financial expectations.

Do you provide any additional services to help coordinate on the day of the wedding? Catering companies vary greatly in terms of their additional services. Some are associated with restaurants and/or specific cuisines and provide food service only. Others may act as full-service caterers who provide optional services such as event coordination and/or design, as well as assist with finding and booking other vendors, such as florists, DJ’s or bands, photo booths and chocolate fountains.

Can we provide our own alcohol? Is there a corking fee? If your venue and/or caterer allow you to provide your own alcohol, stocking your own bar can be a great cost-saving solution. Just make sure to ask about any fees that may drive up the cost.

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14 questions to askyour caterer— c o n t i n u e d Is the wedding cake included in our package? Some catering companies provide beautiful and delicious wedding cakes that are perfect for couples who appreciate a good “one-stop shop.” Or you may have a specific baker in mind, so be sure to address this early in the planning. If you are providing your own cake, ask about a cake cutting fee, so there are no last minute surprises.

What is the usual ratio of staff to guests? The answer depends on the size of the event, serving style, menu demands, and equipment needs. However, by asking up front you'll have an idea of what to expect and understand how the caterer works to ensure a smooth dining experience for all of your guests.

Is it possible to set up a tasting? Most catering companies provide some sort of tasting experience for their clients either prior to booking or before the event to finalize your menu choices. When arranging your tasting session, inquire how many food options will be available, if there are any associated costs, and how many guests can participate.

When do you need a final head count? This will help you to determine when you need your RSVP’s so you have time to contact any stragglers, and submit your final numbers to the caterer in time for preparation for your event.

What happens to the leftovers? Unfortunately many couples do not get the opportunity to enjoy as much of the delicious food because they’re so busy mingling with their guests.

Having the catering team package any leftovers for you and your new spouse is a great way to make sure you get to have your cake and eat it too!

By Michael Evans Michael Evans is the owner of Helga’s Caterers in McLean. To schedule a consultation, call 703.556.0780.

Fabulous Wedding Celebrations at Affordable Prices Since 1981 Voted one of Washington’s Top 5 Caterers www.helgascatering.com

703.556.0780

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Beautiful barn weddings R

ustic and romantic, barns offer a unique alternative for a wedding reception.

Throughout the western countryside of Northern Virginia, land owners with special zoning can offer their properties for wedding receptions a limited number of times a year.

Wineries that host weddings are borrowing barn architecture for their tasting room designs. Event centers are popping up with the look and feel of barns, coupled with modern amenities. There’s even a country club in Fairfax that boasts a barn exterior with newly remodeled banquet space.

Barns offer a blank décor canvas. You can play up the countryside with hay bales, barrels for cocktail tables and carnival lights. Or take your design in a different direction with the unexpected elegance of fine linens and china, Chiavari chairs and beautiful floral centerpieces.

If you have your heart set on a barn wedding, here are some guidelines to help you choose the right location – for both your style and budget.

More moving parts can mean more $$$. If you are hosting your event on an individual’s property (be they family friend or someone booking a limited number of weddings), the odds are quite good that you will need to truck in EVERYTHING. Think about what that means. There’s the obvious, of course, tables, chairs, possibly ceremony seating. But what about lighting, heating/air conditioning (or fans at the least)? And finally, where are all of your guests going to use the bathroom? Your guests’ comfort should be a high priority if you want a successful event.

Granted, answering these questions doesn’t fall under the fun part of wedding planning. But by considering these basics and your budget, you will go into planning your barn wedding better prepared. Individuals who have experience hosting events on their properties 30

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barn weddings— c o n t i n u e d will be able to provide references for rentals – from the reception basics to HVAC systems and mobile lounges. And if you’re going this route, hiring a seasoned event planner to coordinate all of these parts is a wise investment.

Another area of consideration is guest parking. Event centers and wineries have adjacent parking lots. With an individual property, parking may be in a nearby field. Will you need a valet to park your guests’ cars? Will there be access to either the venue or transportation (think golf cart) for those who cannot make the trek from the field to the barn?

When looking for a caterer for your barn wedding, seek out professionals who have either worked the property or have experience setting up and serving in a similar environment.

Often pop-up kitchens need to be erected the day of the event. Will a generator be required or can the caterer access the electric at the property?

Barn weddings are beautiful in large part because the venue is surrounded by nature.

Individuals who rent their properties for weddings are usually working the land as well.

Please be respectful of the fields and livestock. The farm is not a petting zoo for your young guests. There may be sights, sounds – and smells – that are not part of the typical wedding reception.

If you plan thoroughly, think of the comfort of your guests, and work with knowledgeable professionals, your barn wedding will go off without a hitch – go enjoy that hayride and bonfire with your family and friends!

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Wonderful wedding weekends

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n this modern day of transient lifestyles, wedding guest lists contain relatives and friends traveling from both coasts. To make the most of the time couples can spend with their friends and family members, brides and grooms are planning wedding weekends and hosting multiple events in unique venues.

The wedding weekend consists of numerous parties and activities centering around guests getting to know each other while enabling the bride and groom time to relax and enjoy catching up with friends and family. A wedding weekend agenda typically goes like this:

The Ice Breaker This party is usually held on the Thursday evening prior to the wedding. This dinner has replaced the traditional rehearsal dinner as it is often the first time the bride and groom’s families meet. It’s a good idea to keep this event on the casual and fun side, incorporating themes like a bar-b-que or Hawaiian luau.

Bridal Party Outings These events are designed to allow for some relaxation before the big day, and again, give guests a chance to make new acquaintances and renew old friendships. Outings can include trips to a spa for the feminine side of the bridal party, golfing for the groom and his buddies, and sightseeing tours and excursions to local wineries for wedding guests.

Rehearsal Dinner This event is held the night before the wedding and now includes not only the bridal party but family members and out of town wedding guests. It is not unusual to have a guest list of 50 attendees. More couples are utilizing interesting venues, such as wineries, for these events.

The Wedding & Reception By now your guests have had some time to get to know one another better, so let the good times begin. Relax and enjoy the day, whether it’s an elegant ballroom event, a trip back in time at an historic bed & breakfast, or a casual catered affair in the countryside.

Post Festivity Brunch This is the perfect opportunity for the bride & groom to thank out of town guests, friends and family members, and to open gifts. Put the emphasis on hospitality and relaxation.

The wedding weekend allows you time to relax and enjoy visiting with all of your guests.

Use venues that offer many opportunities for different events for your guests while keeping their traveling time to a minimum. With a wealth of historic sites, B&B’s, wineries, shopping outlets, spas and golf clubs, Northern Virginia is the perfect place to hold your wedding weekend. ♥ 32

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Wedding Season at Briar Patch

Whatever the season, we offer a breathtaking, romantic setting in the heart of Virginia horse & wine country for your wedding weekend.

Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast Inn 703.327.5911 • www.BriarPatchBandB.com 23130 Briar Patch Lane

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M i d d l e b u r g VA 2 0 1 1 7

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Hotels your

one stop wedding resource

A

fter the engagement ring is on your finger, the questions looms, “Where should I have my wedding?”

Although many options are tempting, from historic homes and favorite restaurants to exotic locations like mountain tops, many brides must find a balance between budget, planning time, and out of town guests’ requirements. Hotels offer convenience, value, a wide array of capabilities and experienced staff to make wedding planning and the big day effortless, cost-effective and polished.

Convenience Today’s brides are busy with families, careers, studies, travel, hobbies, and of course a fiancé. Some brides are even planning weddings from another town or state. Many of the wedding guests are traveling from a distance to share in the special day. Some will be drinking during the reception. Hotels offer the ability to hold both the reception and guest rooms in one place so that no one will need to drive afterwards. Most hotels offer a complimentary bridal suite with wedding packages, and many airport hotels allow the couple to leave their car in the parking lot and take the courtesy shuttle to and from the airport for the honeymoon.

Sometimes a bride and groom cannot get a church location for their ceremony.

They may practice different religions and decide that a non-religious ceremony is more appropriate. Hotels offer space for ceremonies and decorations such as lattice panels and archways to personalize the room.

In addition to the ceremony and reception, there are many other events that surround a wedding, including the rehearsal dinner, bridesmaids’ luncheon and departure brunch. Most hotels offer custom menus and even discounted rates for these additional events, and with a variety of function rooms from which to choose, each event can take on a unique atmosphere.

With so much going on, the guests and the bride can find themselves running all over town. Hotels frequently offer a complimentary bridal party hospitality room removed from the cocktail hour to allow the bride, groom and their closest friends and family members a chance to catch their breath in privacy.

Value The cost of a wedding reception can vary widely due to a number of factors: type of reception, number of guests, time of day or year, and menu selected. Hotels offer reception packages that typically include reception room set-up with tables and chairs, a selection of tablecloths and napkins, staging for the head table or a band, a dance floor, cake and gift 34

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FINALLY!

Photo: AE Landes Photography

The perfect marriage of a captivating ballroom and a passionate staff to bring serenity instead of stress to your wedding day!

2500 Neabsco Common Place Woodbridge, VA 22191 703.590.2500 www.woodbridge.hgi.com

Clean lines, modern design and lots of natural light make the Hilton Garden Inn a perfect setting for your ceremony and reception. Our gorgeous ballroom – with floor to ceiling windows – can accommodate up to 180 guests.

Ideal upscale city center location, just off I-95 near Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center and Potomac Mills Mall and only 20 miles from Washington, DC. Customizable packages with all inclusive per person pricing to fit your desires and budget.

Delicious onsite catering, brand new guest accommodations and a complimentary honeymoon suite.

To schedule your tour and consultation, contact our Wedding Specialist at 703.590.2500. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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hotels — c o n t i n u e d tables, and basic centerpieces — all at a per person price. Hotel menu packages come complete with hors d’ oeuvres, two to four courses for plated meals or lavish buffets, hosted bars featuring cocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks, and champagne toast and cake cutting for every guest.

Capabilities As many brides quickly discover, much about the wedding experience has very little to do with the bride and groom themselves. There are friends, families, friends of families and other guests who must be thought of every step of the way. Most families contribute some or all of the funds for the festivities and expect to have some say in everything from the time of year and the guest list to the location and relative distance many of the guests must travel.

Hotels can offer the best of all possible worlds when it comes to satisfying a multitude of requirements. By law, hotels are required to maintain accessibility for guests with all kinds of disabilities. From ramps and elevators leading to their public spaces to Braille signage throughout the building and smoke detectors for the hearing impaired, your guests will be treated with the utmost in discretion and comfort.

Reception catering is another example of how hotels can accommodate a wide variety of needs. Most offer pre-planned children’s meals consisting of a fruit cup, chicken fingers, fries and soft drinks but they can also prepare vegetarian or vegan meals, low cholesterol or sodium entrees and other specific requirements. They can further customize their beverage offerings so that your bar features your favorite drinks, including expanded wine bars, microbrew beers or specialty martinis.

Some hotels will also permit outside caterers to provide the meals for your reception when the menu is something outside of their packages. This includes Kosher or Halal catering, Ethiopian or Korean cuisine or any other requirement you may have. Some will even contract the caterer for you.

Experience The execution of the events on the day of your wedding is not something that should be left in the hands of the inexperienced. Hotels employ and train teams of experienced and professional staff members to cater to your every need.

The Banquet Manager and Captains will ensure that your ballroom is set correctly with gleaming glassware, crisp linens and a uniformed staff to wait on you. From the lighting of the candles to adhering to your carefully planned agenda, the Banquet Department will deliver everything you planned and more.

The Chef and his culinary team prepare delicious meals to tempt your guests.

Guaranteeing that the food is fresh, hot and tasty, they can feed from 50 to 500.

The Catering Director and Managers tie it all together: your initial site visit, menu planning, agenda detailing and table placement diagramming. They will place your favors and place cards and greet your limo. As your liaison to the other hotel departments, they can assist with guest rooms and special dietary requests. They can also recommend florists, bakers, photographers and entertainment.

Most hotel chains maintain brand standards of operation that add yet another level of experience to the team of professionals working with you. From equipment and staffing guidelines to continuous training and operational policies and procedures, hotels offer you their good name and reputation for hospitality. Many also award frequent traveler points for all of your catered functions — a great way to pay for your honeymoon!

From your guests checking in to the shuttle for the airport where you depart on your honeymoon, hotels offer convenience, excellent value, a wide range of capabilities and an experienced team. Hotels are your one stop shop for weddings. ♥ 36

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Looking for an exquisite setting for your wedding day?

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE NEWLY REMODELED, FAIRFAX MARRIOTT AT FAIR OAKS

Our beautiful, light filled, open floor plan, is perfect for a memorable ceremony, or an elegant reception Enjoy inventive catering, personalized menus, and creative presentations, from our Executive Chef Let our certified Wedding Planners coordinate the finest of details, and anticipate your every need

11787 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway Fairfax, VA 22033

703.667.2101 www.fairfaxmarriott.com

ALL YOU WILL NEED TO SAY IS “I DO”.

Gracious guests Y

ou aren't from Northern Virginia but have made it home and are holding your wedding here? The odds are that you will have out of town guests. Thoughtful brides and grooms scout out lodging accommodations and reserve blocks of rooms for family members and friends.

If your reception is at one of the area's hotels, ask about discounted room rates for your guests. This one-stop location is most helpful for guests who are unfamiliar with the area. Ask about a hospitality suite where friends and family can meet. If your guests are arriving by plane, inquire about shuttle service.

If your event is at a banquet facility, historic home or restaurant, ask your catering professional for recommendations of nearby hotels. Find two or three hotels in different price ranges to accommodate the budgets of your guests. Ask the hotel sales manager if room reservation cards are available to send to your guests, giving an 800 number, directions to the hotel and the name the block is reserved under.

If out of town guests do not have access to a car, help arrange transportation to and from the ceremony and reception. Consider hiring shuttle vans or, if budget is a concern, it is perfectly okay to arrange for local family and friends to provide transportation.

To show your appreciation to your out of town guests, prepare welcome baskets for each room. Gourmet foods and a bottle of wine from a local vineyard make a lovely gift basket. Also be sure to include maps and sightseeing brochures that may be of interest to your guests. ♥

Where Wedding Dreams Come True.

Weddings & Events at the Holiday Inn Dulles Whatever the need, we’re committed to providing outstanding value, with the best service in top quality surroundings.

Rehearsal Dinners Ceremonies Receptions Bridal or Day-After Brunch

Bridal Showers Bridal Dressing Room Groom’s Room Wedding Room Blocks

Call 703.480.7454 or visit HIDullesAirport.com 38

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Meal Service…

What’s Your Style?

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eddings come in all different sizes and styles, each uniquely beautiful and representing a happy couple. Based on a couple’s theme and plans for the day, it makes sense then that the style of the reception at a black-tie wedding varies from that of a backyard barbecue. While there are different styles of catering that can be utilized during your reception, keep in mind that only you and your significant other can decide which option – or options – best fit your needs for your overall wedding vision.

Sit-down dinners typically consist of a multi-course meal in which each course is plated and served individually to guests. This elegant option allows your guests to feel pampered and is traditionally used for more formal affairs. This style of service has a greater expense due to the increased staffing requirements needed in order to adequately serve your guests. Formal sit-down dinners can be quite regal, especially when butlered French service is used where each guest is served at the table, offering an extra layer of elegance for your guests.

Family-style dinners are a cozy, intimate way to serve your guests. With platters and bowls placed on each table, your family and friends have the ability to select their portions through self-service. In order to successfully carry out a family-style meal, you must have enough staff to service each table and enough space at the tables to comfortably fit your guests, as well as the food and equipment. This style emanates the casual comfort of family gatherings at home – without all of the work and worry!

Food stations are a fun, interactive alternative to buffets, allowing for increased flexibility and options. Stations provide your guests with opportunity to customize their meals and they promote mingling in a more casual atmosphere. Because items are often made to order, it’s important to have more staff and more time for dinner. Food stations are a great way to provide an additional dimension to your reception.

Buffets are always an excellent option, particularly for couples who want to serve a wide variety of food choices to their guests. They provide greater flexibility, allowing guests to pick the items that most satisfy their palates, as well as controlling how much or little of each item is served. This style tends to be the least expensive and may be a good option for those on a budget. With endless display possibilities, buffets are a great way to provide a dramatic focal point for your reception.

By working with your caterer or food & beverage manager, you’ll find the right style that fits your style! ♥

By Michael Evans Michael Evans is the owner of Helga’s Caterers in McLean and a regular contributor to the Brides & Weddings website blog. To schedule a consultation, call 703.556.0780 and visit www.helgascatering.com. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Wedding traditions & D

customs

o you ever wonder why a particular wedding custom is practiced?

Many couples incorporate customs into their weddings but often do not know the origins of these traditions.

Here are some common, and not so well known, customs and traditions: WEDDING GOWN COLOR The original wedding gown was red. In Chinese culture, red symbolizes luck for the couple. Pakistani brides often wear red on the third day of the wedding celebration, when the marriage rites and ceremony are performed. In Biblical times and during the Middle Ages, blue was a popular color for wedding gowns because it was the traditional color of purity. Today the color is represented in the practice of "something blue" for the bride on her wedding day.

According to history, the first white wedding dress was worn in the late 1400’s by Anne of Brittany for her marriage to Louis XII of France. The traditional Japanese wedding gown is white; in ancient Greece and later during the Victorian era, white was worn to represent purity and innocence.

Trad. & Customs — c o n t i n u e d Today, white and ivory are the most popular colors for wedding gowns, with many brides adding a touch of color to reflect their individuality. The more daring bride will wear whatever color suits her, including black.

WEDDING VEIL Originally, Roman brides wore veils. Traditionally, brides were thought to be particularly vulnerable to evil spirits, and it was believed that veils disguised brides and protected them from evil spirits. In early European times, marriages were arranged and brides were bargained. Once the transaction and ceremony were completed, the marriage was irreversible. Often, the bride’s father would veil her until after the ceremony so that the groom would not see her, just in case he was not pleased with the arrangement.

The veil, which was yellow in ancient Greece and red in ancient Rome, usually shrouded the bride from head to foot, and denoted the subordination of a woman to man -- the thicker the veil, the more traditional the implication of wearing it. The lifting of the veil at the end of the ceremony symbolized male dominance. If the bride took the initiative in lifting it, thereby presenting herself to him, she was showing more independence.

Veils came into vogue in the United States when Nelly Custis wore a veil at her wedding to George Washington's aid, Major Lawrence Lewis. Major Lewis saw his bride standing behind a filmy curtain and commented to her how beautiful she appeared. She then decided to veil herself for their ceremony. (www.ourmarriage.com) BRIDESMAIDS, BEST MAN and GROOMSMEN It was once thought that both the bride and groom were vulnerable to forces of evil; therefore, the best man’s duty was to protect the groom on his way to the church.

Groomsmen and bridesmaids were dressed in attire similar to the bride and groom in order to confuse the evil spirits until after the ceremony took place. Today, the bridesmaids and groomsmen assist the couple during the planning stages and on the wedding day.

Trad. & Customs — c o n t i n u e d WEDDING FLOWERS Traditionally, the bridal bouquet had different flowers, each with special significance (i.e. roses for love, lilies for virtue). In ancient marriages, the brides carried herbs beneath their veils to symbolize fidelity. Greek brides carried ivy as a symbol of never-ending love. Orange blossoms, the world-renowned wedding flower, were chosen by the Spaniards to represent happiness and fulfillment, because the orange tree flowers and bears fruit at the same time.

During earlier times of "primitive marriage," when the fear of demons was common, brides carried stinking garlands of herbs and spices for the purpose of frightening off evil spirits.

The groom’s boutonniere should have a flower that is present in the bride’s bouquet. This stems from the medieval tradition of a knight wearing his lady’s colors to declare his love.

Today, brides chose wedding flowers to suit themes and color schemes.

UNITY CANDLE CEREMONY This modern day custom rose in popularity with the increase of interfaith marriages. It is a symbolic versus a religious custom. The ceremony signifies the joining of two families into one and could have roots in the South African tradition of the bride’s mother carrying a fire from her hearth to the home of the newlyweds, where a new fire would be lit.

Trad. & Customs — c o n t i n u e d The unity candle is actually a set, which consists of one pillar and two taper candles.

The couple’s mothers, grandmothers or children light the tapers during the ceremony. After the exchange of vows and wedding rings, the bride and groom each hold a taper and light the center, or pillar, candle together.

JUMPING THE BROOM This is an African American tradition that began during slavery when couples were not allowed to marry. The couple would hold hands and jump together over a decorated broom. If they could jump and land together, it signified their marriage would last. Today, many African American couples still jump the broom after they are pronounced husband and wife and before the recessional.

DOWRY/HOPECHEST/TROUSSEAU/ BRIDAL SHOWER In the past, the groom would pay a price to the bride’s family. In turn, the bride’s family would provide the couple with a dowry – items needed to establish their new home.

Young ladies would plan for their weddings long before they were of marrying age.

During this time, brides would add items to the dowry. These items were kept in what was called a "hope chest" which was built by the bride’s father. Trousseau is another name for this collection of clothing and household items.

Tradition says the first bridal shower was thrown for a poor Dutch couple because they were denied the dowry due to the groom’s low economical status as a miller (www.ourmarriage.com). Today, the custom is for the bridesmaids to host a shower for the couple. Guests provide gifts needed by the couple or the bride.

RING FINGER/WEDDING RING Egyptians believed the Vein Amoris or "Vein of Love" ran from the heart to the third finger of the left hand. The diamond was a popular gem for the wedding rings of the ancient Greeks because they believed that the stones were teardrops of the Gods and reflected the flames of love. Today, diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands because of their value. Additionally, they are strong gems that endure the stress of everyday living and are said to last forever.

INVITATIONS’ TISSUE What is the purpose of that sheet of tissue paper for each invitation? In earlier days, all written correspondences, including invitations, were hand written with ink. To prevent smearing, a piece of tissue paper was placed over the writing to blot the excess ink prior to mailing. Today, the tissue serves no real purpose. It is merely a formality and is placed over the face of the invitation.

Some traditions and customs fade away with time while others endure. Who knows what trends of today will become the traditions of tomorrow? www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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A Bar

Without Breaking the Bank

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pen bar versus limited bar … price per person versus consumption. Cash bar – no way! Remember, these are your guests, not your buddies out for a night on the town. Bar budgeting is a key part of reception planning and Christopher Williams, Event Manager for The Fish Market, has some great advice.

An open (or full) bar includes wine, beer, and a variety of liquor (both rail and call brands) and is the most expensive to host. When estimating consumption, Chris says, count on two to three drinks per person. Beer is $4-$5 a bottle; wine $5-$6 a glass, and mixed drinks run $5-$6 for rail liquor (such as Aristocrat vodka) to $7 for a call brand, such as Absolute. “Plan on more than less,” advises Chris. “That way there is no sticker shock and if your bar comes in under budget, great.

And your event manager will let you know when you get close to budget so we can slow things down.” And some venues offer, in lieu of consumption pricing, a flat price per guest for bar service.

To help curb bar expenses, consider a limited bar. “Couples are going back to basics,” says Chris, “and offering rum & Coke, vodka tonic, and Jack Daniels & Coke.” A limited bar should include a craft or seasonal beer, along with a domestic or import, white and red wine selections, and signature cocktail. And keep that signature drink simple. “The simpler, the better,” Chris says. “It will please more people and have less ingredients – which cuts down on mixing time.” Count on using one bartender per 20-30 guests to cover the mad rush at cocktail hour.

Another way to cut bar expenses is to offer a full bar during the cocktail hour, then switch to beer and wine during the dinner hour, explains Chris. “It’s a better alternative than shutting down the bar during dinner,” he says. And you don’t need to offer liquor at your rehearsal dinner. “You don’t want to overdo it,” says the event manager.

Chris sees two trends with bar service for today’s couples. “I’m seeing smaller groups for the actual rehearsal dinner and then opening up the room for other guests after dinner for cocktails and trays of light hors d’oeuvres. And for the reception, it’s an open bar for cocktail time, beer and wine for dinner service and going Dutch treat for the after party.”

And don’t forget your guests who enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage.

“Those beverages are usually included in the menu price,” says Chris, “but check to be sure. Offer coffee, tea, soda or lemonade – and maybe a signature drink like a Shirley Temple.”

Eat, drink and be merry!

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Relax...we’ve got this.

From great custom menus to attentive, personalized service, we take the stress out of hosting your rehearsal dinner, intimate wedding reception or “after-party” party for up to 100 guests.

Our internationally famous restaurant offers a spacious private party room overlooking the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

To reserve your special day, contact Christopher Williams, Group Sales Manager, at 703.683.1135.

105 King Street, Old Town Alexandria 22314 I 703.836.5676 www.fishmarketva.com I sales@fishmarketva.com www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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planning for

MotherNature Whether She’s Invited or Not!

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oday's brides and grooms are increasingly interested in outdoor weddings. Being outdoors gives a sense of relaxation, freedom and visual excitement that four walls just can't match. Declaring your vows and saying “I do” with a slight breeze in the air and the sun setting behind the trees is romantic and unforgettable. Having your wedding outdoors does come with some unpredictable elements. But with a little planning and a bit of affability, nothing will stand in the way of experiencing all the best of your special day.

When choosing an outdoor venue, determine if a "Plan B" is needed in the event of uncooperative weather. Additional tenting may be necessary in the occurrence of heavy rain, storms or high winds. Consider the seasonal temperatures to determine if additional heating or cooling may be necessary to keep you and your guests comfortable.

A professional caterer will know how to handle the open air, but put yourself at ease by making sure they are familiar with the site, its specific amenities and how important it is to you that they are prepared for weather-related surprises. And talk to your photographer in advance. Discuss your backup plan and ask for suggestions in the event of poor weather conditions. Photographers often remark at how amazing photographs are in the rain. Clouds seem to filter the sun’s harsh rays and create the perfect lighting.

You’ll also want to consider your clothing — and let’s not forget the shoes. High-heeled shoes aren’t always the best for grassy conditions, so consider going with some trendy flats. Think about the style of your gown and your comfort while mingling with your guests. Choose lightweight, romantic dresses for the bridesmaids with lengths that won’t get caught on outdoor surfaces. In early spring and fall, you may need to add a decorative layer to enjoy the falling temperatures that arrive with the onset of the evening. And don’t forget about the man you love and his groomsmen — a traditional tux may not be the perfect option.

Remember, many types of insects are attracted to flowers, so keep your arrangements simple and elegant. In the same way bees are attracted to flowers, mosquitoes can be attracted to you. To keep them at a distance, use citronella candles and torches. They also love perfumes and colognes, so think about going au natural on the big day.

With a little planning, the unexpected becomes expected! And if Mother Nature does in fact arrive and brings an unruly guest, relax, enjoy and laugh. You have Plan B! Remember that rain on your wedding day does not mean bad luck. It simply means that the atmosphere was sufficiently unstable to support any more rising air and consequently, precipitation happens. Happy Planning! ♥ 48

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Tips for Tipping

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he best tip of all is to simply spread the word about the vendors you love and chose to work with on your wedding day. Discussing their talents and services with others works wonders for their business. Let’s be honest, no one can ever ask for a better tip than a great referral.

Word of mouth reviews, as well as positive reviews on wedding websites, are what couples typically consider before calling a vendor for a meeting. Your review might just get a wedding pro that next contract – a tip that will definitely be worth more in the long run.

After all, who would you trust more than a real couple who just utilized the services of a wonderful wedding professional?

Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation to your vendors, but it’s never obligatory and is always up to the couple. Some vendors do not expect tips, some appreciate them but don’t expect them and certain vendors 100% expect them. So how do you know who to tip and how much is appropriate?

Most vendors do a lot of work behind the scenes, and some after the day itself, to make your wedding go as smoothly as possible. Tipping should be based on the services of a vendor, time and energy spent on and preparing for your big day, and the quality of their work. Here’s a simple rule of thumb: If you just love your vendor, and if (s)he is going above and beyond to make your special day even more fabulous, why not show how much you appreciate the effort?

A recent survey asked both married and unmarried individuals their opinion on what the tip should be for a variety of vendors. Here are the answers given for the average tip, the most popular answer – and true amount that should be given based on industry norms.

Officiant: Average tip: $129; most popular answer - $100. Now, what’s typical? Most clergy in a house of worship will ask for a donation. This is usually $200 to $500 or more, depending on your house of worship. The officiant will expect a tip/donation. If you are getting married in a less traditional setting, the officiant should be tipped $50 to $100.

Wedding Coordinator: Average tip: $117; most popular answer - $100. This is the person you depend on to make it all come together! Tipping your coordinator is not expected, but preferred. A typical gratuity for an event coordinator is 15% of their bill.

Hair and Makeup Artists: Average tip: $48; most popular answer - $50. Your hair and makeup artists expect tips. On average this should be about 20% of their entire bill.

DJ or Band: Average tip: $56; most popular answer - $100. The DJ or band appreciates a tip, but it’s not expected. A little extra for a DJ or band that played one extra song, stuck to your play list, or pronounced your wedding parties names flawlessly deserves a little something extra at the end of the night! This should be 10% of their bill or $50 per musician.

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tips for tipping — continued

Photographer: Average tip: $65; most popular answer - $0. The photographer works not only on your wedding day, but also after. Editing photos takes hours to ensure images turn out beautifully.

While not necessarily expected, it’s always a nice gesture to let your photographer know you value his/her hard work with about $100 - $200.

Catering Manager/Director or Food & Beverage Manager/Director: Average tip: $28; most popular answer - $0. This vendor appreciates tips. The planning time leading up to your big day is usually most spent with this vendor, and he or she is typically forgotten in the tipping process. Industry standard is $100 - $200 for this vendor.

Full Service Catering Company Specializing in International Cuisine IMPECCABLE FOOD

ARTISTRY FLAWLESS SERVICE

571.203.0111 Info@maisonculinaire.com www.maisonculinaire.com

Catering Staff: Average tip: $51; most popular answer - $0. Ask your catering sales manager about tipping the staff.

Some catering services make the service charge the tip and some do not. The service charge is usually not a tip but payment for the staff, including chefs, cooks, and dishwashers, to be at the wedding. Tips for catering staff are expected. Usually the banquet captain is given about $100 to $200 while servers should be given about $25 - $75 each.

Bartender: Average tip: $61; most popular answer - $100. Tipping the bartender is expected. Bartenders should be tipped 10% to 20% based on the alcohol bill. Bartenders are typically bombarded by wedding guests and are thankful for the recognition of their hard work in keeping your guests satisfied and drinks full. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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tips for tipping — c o n t i n u e d Coat and Restroom Attendant: Average tip: $24; most popular answer - $50. The coat and restroom attendants expect tips.

An expected tip is $1 to $2 per guest.

Limo/Transportation Driver: Average tip: $50; most popular answer - $100.

Many hotels provide shuttles to and from venues as a courtesy to your guests. If this is the case, a small tip is a nice offering. If you have rented a limo, bus, or some other transportation, tipping the driver(s) is expected. An adequate tip would be 15% of their bill.

Valet: Average tip: $42; most popular answer - $100. The valet expects tips.

Tipping should be based on a rate of $1 to $2 per car or 15% to 20% of the bill.

Finding parking is especially difficult in cities where it’s limited. Be sure to treat the valet well, as they have expensive equipment to handle in a fast-paced atmosphere.

truly special Make your wedding

in a rustic, yet elegant, country setting.

Florist and Cake Baker: Average tip: $17; most popular answer - $0. Florists and bakers do not expect tips. However, if you made a last-minute order or your vendor brought along some unexpected flowers or cookies for extra decorations or goodies, a small tip is always appreciated. The delivery drivers dropping off these goods do expect a tip - $10 to $20 is adequate.

Dress Shop/Tailor: Average tip: $8; most popular answer - $0. This vendor does not expect a tip.

• • • •

Barn style pavilion for 150 Tented events for up to 300 Full service catering Overnight accommodations

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With so many things to remember on your big day, take the stress out of tipping and plan ahead. Placing gratuities in eliminates envelopes marked unnecessary wedding day worry. Check your contract to see if any gratuities are included before tipping and, most importantly, never hesitate to ask questions. And remember, the ultimate tipping decision is up to you! ♥

Northern

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RENTAL

Checklist Backyard, historic home or hotel … you will probably need some rental items for your ceremony and reception. Use this handy checklist to keep track.

CEREMONY ITEMS ❒ Arch or Chuppa ❒ Kneeling Bench ❒ Candelabras ❒ Aisle Runner ❒ Chairs ❒ Columns RECEPTION ITEMS ❒ Tent ❒ Lighting ❒ Heaters/Air Conditioning ❒ Staging ❒ Dance Floor ❒ Tables (for service and guests) ❒ Chairs ❒ Linens ❒ China ❒ Glassware ❒ Flatware ❒ Serving Pieces ❒ Serving Items ❒ Bar ❒ Champagne/Chocolate Fountain ❒ Popcorn Machine (for younger guests) 54

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E

don’t step on anyone’s toes

xcited about rehearsing that new “First Dance” choreography you learned but have no room to practice? For about $10 per hour you can practice in one of the many professional studios around the area. Here are some tips to help ensure a pleasant environment and allow you to feel comfortable practicing in the studio.

• If space allows, dancers should set up speakers and use mirrors at opposite corners of the studio; once all four corners are full then fill in the middle sections. Rent space during non-peak hours (anytime before 6 p.m.) if you are practicing tap or flamenco, drumming, or other loud percussive dances.

• Use earphones - especially if you need to play music loudly or nonstop and when directly next to ongoing lessons. Be mindful of volume levels and speaker location/angle. Turn your music off when not dancing to minimize the overall noise in the room.

• If you are beside a privacy/noise dampening curtain, assume that your neighbors expect you to use it or else switch places so they can take advantage of this amenity. Check with the office about if/when the curtain can be used. Ask permission before adjusting the teaching environment.

• Due to the close and direct contact nature of the dancing, use sanitizer or wash hands frequently. Don’t leave your belongings around the studio to “save” a space indefinitely. Let your neighbors know when you plan to return.

By using common sense and good etiquette, you'll create a fun practice environment. Remember, successful practice will help you shine in the wedding day spotlight. ♥

By Deborah Joy Block Deborah Joy Block is the owner of The Wedding Dance Specialists. To learn more about wedding dance bootcamps and lesson packages, visit theweddingdancespecialists.com.

T Rose International Bridal Show

For dates & more information, visit

www.TroseBridalShows.com Every Cinderella wants to dance with her Prince Charming …

Let The Wedding Dance Specialists show you how – in just hours!

THE WEDDING DANCE SPECIALISTS C o n v e n i e n t VA & M D l o c a t i o n s

703.626.7016 www.TheWeddingDanceSpecialists.com “Creating memories one step at a time”

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Sep.Ceremony Area: Outside Space: Dance Floor: Changing Room: Caterers Permitted: Guest Rooms:

Menu Price Range: Seating Capacity:

Reception&Rehearsal Guide COUNTRY CLUBS Bull Run Golf Club: Pg. 11 3520 James Madison Highway Haymarket 703.753.7777 www.bullruncc.com

$$$ 350 W/ TP

Y

Y

Y

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Chantilly National GC: Pg. 3 $$$ 160 14901 Braddock Rd., Centreville 703.631.8560 www.chantilly-national.com

Y

Y

Y

N

N

NB

We schedule only one wedding a day, allowing us to focus all of our attention on you!

Heritage Hunt Golf & CC: Pg. 15 $$ 330 Y 6901 Arthur Hills Dr., Gainesville 703.743.2005 www.heritgehuntgolf.com

Y

Y

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NB

Experience traditional hospitality in a classic setting.

Hidden Creek CC: Pg. 25 1711 Clubhouse Road, Reston 703.437.5222 www.hiddencreekcc.com

$$$ 200

Y

Y

Y

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The “hidden jewel� of Reston, surrounded by an oasis of rolling landscapes and golf course views.

Piedmont Club: Pg. 3 14675 Piedmont Vista Drive Haymarket 703.753.5922 ext. 225 www.piedmontclub.com

$$$ 200

Y

Y

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NB

Affordable, elegant receptions. Ask about special savings on select dates.

Regency at Dominion Valley Pg. 21 $$$ 200 Y 15351 Championship Drive Haymarket 571.261.3335 www.eventsatregency.com

Y

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Lushly landscaped outdoor amphitheater for ceremonies.

Newly remodeled ballroom.

River Creek Club: Pg. 2 $$ 300 Y 43800 Olympic Blvd., Leesburg $$ 703.779.2022 www.rivercreekclub.com

Y

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NB

Breathtaking views of the Potomac. Classic elegance, fine service and exquisite cuisine.

Shenandoah Valley GC: Pg. 26 134 Golf Club Circle, Front Royal 540.635.3588 www.shenandoahvalleygolfclub.com

Y

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OS

Picturesque event venue in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Discounts for Friday & Sunday wedding receptions, based upon availability.

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Discover an idyllic Hunt Country getaway, now featuring a newly renovated ballroom for special events and weddings.

Nearby . . . . . . . . NB Yes. . . . . . . . . . . . . Y Ethnic. . . . . . . . . . . E No. . . . . . . . . . . . . N On-Site . . . . . . . . OS Tented Patio . . . . . TP

Sep.Ceremony Area: Outside Space: Dance Floor: Changing Room: Caterers Permitted: Guest Rooms:

Facility

Menu Price Range: Seating Capacity:

Under $50 . . . . . . . $ $101-$125 . . . $$$$ Caterer Required . CR $51-$75 . . . . . . . $$ $126 & up . . . $$$$$ Required List . . . . RL $76-$100 . . . . . $$$ Preferred List . . . . PL Bride’s Choice . . . BC

RESTAURANTS 2941 Restaurant: Pg. 22 2941 Fairview Park Drive Falls Church 703.270.1601 www.2941.com

$$ 200

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Wonderful food from our award-winning chef. Lush landscaping, koi ponds, waterfalls, world-class artwork, and a lakeside view.

Stonewall Golf Club: Pg. 23 15601 Turtle Point Drive Gainesville 703.753.6156 www.stonewallgolfclub.com

$$

150

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N

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Flagstone patio overlooking Lake Manassas, perfect for ceremony or cocktail hour.

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse Pg. Inside back cover 8010 Towers Crescent Drive Tysons Corner 703.639.3080 www.chimasteakhouse.com

$$ 350

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Share a one-of-akind dining experience. Great for rehearsal dinners!

N

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Fun-filled rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions in the heart of Old Town

Fairfax Marriott $$$ 280 Y at Fair Oaks: Pg. 37 11787 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy, Fairfax 703.667.2101 www.fairfaxmarriott.com

N

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OS

Our beautiful Garden Atrium is suitable for a memorable wedding ceremony or an elegant reception. Newly remodeled.

Hilton Garden Inn Woodbridge $$$ 180 Pg. 35 2500 Neabsco Common Place, Woodbridge 703.590.2500 www.woodbridge.hgi.com

N

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OS

Onsite catering, per person, all-inclusive pricing, complimentary honeymoon suite, complimentary use of breakout room for any and all needs.

Holiday Inn Arlington: Pg. 27 4610 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington 703.243.9800 Ext. 7116 www.hiarlington.com

Y

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OS

Delicious catering options sure to delight the palates of you and your guests.

Fish Market: Pg. 45 105 King Street, Alexandria 703.836.5676 www.fishmarketva.com

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HOTELS

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Holiday Inn Washington Dulles: Pg. 37 45425 Holiday Drive, Sterling 703.480.7443 www.hidullesairport.com

$$

150 TO 300

Sep.Ceremony Area: Outside Space: Dance Floor: Changing Room: Caterers Permitted: Guest Rooms:

Menu Price Range: Seating Capacity:

Reception&Rehearsal Guide Y

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Briar Patch Pg. 33 CR 200 Y 23130 Briar Patch Ln. Middleburg 703.327.5911 www.briarpatchbandb.com

Y

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Marriott Ranch: Pg. 52 5305 Marriott Lane, Hume 540.364.2627 www.marriottranch.com

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OS

From beautiful room dĂŠcor, delicious menu options, and even dressing room packages, we have truly thought of it all. Our talented wedding specialists will work with you to plan every detail.

BED & BREAKFAST/INNS Plan a countryside wedding weekend at our historic B&B.

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Seasonal pavilion. Let the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge lend the perfect touch to your special event.

$$ 100 $$$

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170 natural acres. 21 room Inn. Full service Spa w/salt water pool.

One stop - catering; pastry chef; minimal/ no rentals required.

One venue – ceremony, reception, overnight accommodations.

CR 160

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CR 250

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Two beautiful tented spaces; elegant gardens for ceremonies & cocktails; stately mansion and rolling vistas for photo ops.

Waverly Mansion: Back Cover $$$ 150 2300 Waverly Mansion Dr., Marriottsville MD 301.572.7744 www.historicwaverlymansion.com

Y

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Celebrate in beautiful wooded areas and gardens and beneath the gorgeous silk-lined

Poplar Springs Inn & Spa Pg. 19 5025 Casanova Road, Warrenton 540.788.4600 www.poplarspringsinn.com

$$ $$

BC OS

FARM/BARN WEDDINGS Salem Oaks: Pg. 31 2380 Atoka Road, Marshall 540.687.4256 salemoaksfarm.com

This is a working horse farm, with privacy for your wedding.

HISTORIC PROPERTIES. Oatlands Plantations: Pg. 18 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane Leesburg 703.777.3174 www.oatlands.org

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Nearby . . . . . . . . NB Yes. . . . . . . . . . . . . Y Ethnic. . . . . . . . . . . E No. . . . . . . . . . . . . N On-Site . . . . . . . . OS Tented Patio . . . . . TP

Sep.Ceremony Area: Outside Space: Dance Floor: Changing Room: Caterers Permitted: Guest Rooms:

Facility

Menu Price Range: Seating Capacity:

Under $50 . . . . . . . $ $101-$125 . . . $$$$ Caterer Required . CR $51-$75 . . . . . . . $$ $126 & up . . . $$$$$ Required List . . . . RL $76-$100 . . . . . $$$ Preferred List . . . . PL Bride’s Choice . . . BC

Fort Myer Officers’ Club: Pg. 13 $$ 280 Y 214 Jackson Avenue, Arlington $$ 703.524.0200 www.jbmhhmwr.com

N

Y

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NB

Grand ballroom with soaring ceilings and chandeliers. Cuisine by Five Star Catering.

Manassas Park Community Center: Pg. 51 703.335.8872 www.manassasparkcommunity center.com

Y

Y

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N

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NB

Budget friendly wedding packages!

Our beautiful parks andunique building serve as the perfect backdrop to capture your memories.

Hylton Performing Arts Center CR 300 Y Pg. 1 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas 703.993.9344 www.hyltoncenter.org

N

Y

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CR 200

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, ART CENTERS BC NB

Rich colors and interesting architecture throughout the building provides stunning settings for photos.

WATERFRONT WEDDINGS Anchor Inn: Back Cover 7617 Water Oak Point Rd., Pasadena MD 301.572.7744 www.anchorinnmd.com

$$$ 175

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

NB

The perfect intimate Chesapeake Bay wedding venue. Surrounded by water on three sides, the beauty of the bay will set the backdrop.

$$ 300 $$

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

NB

This all-inclusive beautiful Chesapeake Bay waterfront venue is the perfect backdrop.

Enjoy several choices of stunning outdoor ceremony sites with indoor back-up options for weather.

Harbour View: Pg. 9 CR 320 Y 13200 Marina Way, Woodbridge 703.910.4273 www.harbourviewevents.com

Y

Y

Y

PL

NB

Unique events on the river’s edge. Special incentives for select dates.

Y

Y

N

N

NB

Two beautiful ballrooms, award-winning catering and planning. Allinclusive packages w/ up-lighting and elegant waterfront restaurant.

Celebrations at the Bay: Back Cover 2042 Knollview Ave, Pasadena MD 301.572.7744 www.celebrationsatthebay.com

ACROSS THE RIVER (The) Villa: Back Cover $$$ 300 Y 4060 Powder Mill Rd., Beltsville, MD 301.572.7744 www.thevillaweddingvenue.com

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social media

Wediquette S

ocial media is embedded in our day-to-day life; in fact, for most of us, social media facilitates the majority of our daily interactions with others. We use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay in touch, share updates, and celebrate milestones; it’s only natural that social media has found its way into wedding celebrations. That said, before uploading a photo of the happy couple saying “I Do,” it is important to remember your social media wedding etiquette.

HERE COMES THE HASHTAG A particularly social couple may utilize social media to engage and communicate with their guests from the first RSVP to the last thank-you card. While the majority of couples still choose to mail out paper invitations, many opt for electronic RSVP’s: a cheaper, more environmentally -friendly option. It’s also a more efficient option for guests. Wedding websites and blogs are also commonly used to share updates and information about the wedding day, the registry, and anything that wasn’t covered on the invitations.

Social-savvy couples may also request and encourage their guests upload photos taken at their wedding to a photo-sharing site such as WedPics or Wedding Party. Alternatively, a unique hashtag may be provided for guests to categorize photos posted on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Digitally catalogued photos enable the couple to revisit the special (and sometimes hilarious) moments the days after their wedding. Similarly, guests can swap stories and re-hash inside jokes long after the last dance-off.

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social media wediquette — c o n t i n u e d WEDDING COUPLE TIP: If you would like your guests to share photos with an app or website, make sure this information is communicated clearly and in advance either through your wedding website or via signage at the reception. Otherwise, you may end up with several hashtags and countless irretrievable photos. Something as simple as “If you are sharing photos, make sure you use our hashtag: #PWLivingWeddings will let guests know how to upload photos with the group.

GUEST TIP: While it may be tempting to capture every moment through your device, remember to look up and experience the wedding. You wouldn’t want to miss a big moment because you were applying the Valencia filter to your latest photo on Instagram.

After all, it was you and not your social media followers who was invited to share in this special day. Your followers can wait.

PRIVACY, PLEASE While there are many arguments endorsing a web-based wedding infused with social media, it isn’t uncommon for a couple to go one step further and request their guests be present and refrain from using smartphones and other electronic devices. Before you gasp in horror, we could all learn something from the un-plugged wedding.

If a couple has discouraged the use of smartphones, odds are they are more concerned with ensuring guests enjoy the evening than with ensuring guests have updated their social media. Simply put, the emphasis is placed on the guests experiencing the wedding through their eyes, not their phone.

While your wedding day is a special occasion, “checking in,” tweeting, and photo sharing may be daily (if not hourly) routines for many of your guests.

WEDDING COUPLE TIP: If you would prefer photos and details from your wedding not end up on social media sites, politely ask your guests to refrain from doing so. Just like the weddings involving social media, signage can be particularly effective in delivering this message. For example, “We ask that you visit with your friends here today. Do us a favor and please put your phones away.”

GUEST TIP: Pay attention to the wedding correspondence you receive: has the couple specifically requested guests refrain from using their phones during the wedding and/or reception? If so, be respectful: The couple has asked you to share in one of the most important days of their life. Be a guest first, photographer/ blogger/ tweeter second.

When we think of wedding etiquette we may think of toasts, attire, glass clinking, and perhaps even dance moves. Today, we must also think of social media. Photos, videos, tweets, and check-ins are fluid in our society. While we can control what we share about ourselves, we can’t always control what others share about us. When planning your wedding it is important to determine how you feel about social media: what role, if any, will it play? Regardless, we must all be reminded to be social first, media second. ♥

By Amanda Causey Baity Amanda Causey Baity is Brides & Weddings Director of Operations and Photo Editor. A wedding photographer in the metro Atlanta and east Alabama area, she now resides with her family in Manassas, Va. She can be reached at amanda@bridesandweddings.com. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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wedding cakes with

Style

(and don’t forget the groom’s cake!)

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edding cakes are a centerpiece for the reception – they balance a bridal couple’s style, palette, theme, and creativity. And couples are now mixing tradition with contemporary elements to create unique designs. Here are some helpful tips when choosing your wedding cake.

Find your comfort zone: It’s important to be comfortable with your wedding cake vendor, whether it’s a full service bakery or dedicated wedding cake specialist. You should be offered a consultation where you are able to taste various flavor combinations, browse through a portfolio of their work, and begin to create your cake.

Celebrate with style: Gone are the days in which wedding cakes had to be round and covered with a thick white icing with tons of piping. Brides and grooms are now incorporating color, shapes, sugar flowers, height and even cupcakes. Consider having a square cake with each tier slightly off-set and decorate it with very delicate piping to highlight the squares like custom gift boxes. Think about using taller round cakes with vibrant-colored sugar flowers for extra height and attention. Defy gravity with a “topsy turvy” cake that looks ready to topple over. Try adding brushed embroidery to a traditional round cake to awe your guests. Or change things up a little and make each tier a different shape, color or design. Have some fun with cupcakes and create a cupcake tower with a small cake on top for tradition. Create your own statement!

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Receive a COMPLIMENTARY CAKE on your FIRST ANNIVERSARY with each wedding cake order

FINEST INGREDIENTS

BAKED DAILY

NEVER FROZEN

DIABETIC, VEGAN (egg & dairy-free) and NON-GLUTEN options available.

9685 Liberia Avenue #107 • Manassas, Virginia 20110 703.530.8898 • www.CakesByHappyEatery.com Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm; Sunday 10am-5pm www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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wedding cakes with style— c o n t i n u e d Look good and taste good: The wedding cake is usually one of the first items guests see when they enter the reception. They admire it all evening and, finally after much anticipation, get to have a slice. Make those bites memorable — the cake should taste divine! Ask when your cake will be baked to ensure freshness. Use seasonal flavors such as mango with fresh berries (Summer), pumpkin or apple spice (Fall), peppermint or gingerbread (Winter) or carrot or lemon (Spring).

You can even mix up some classics to create your own combination. Try a vanilla sponge cake layered with chocolate ganache and raspberry mousse topped off with vanilla whipped cream, or a devil’s food cake with chocolate buttercream filling and iced with vanilla buttercream. Or surprise your guests with red velvet cake filled with Chantilly cream and fresh strawberries! Different tiers can be different flavors to make for variety.

And for your guests with special dietary needs, there are bakers who can make sugarfree, gluten-free, and even vegan (egg & dairy-free) cakes!

The “icing on the cake”: Fondant is dough-like icing made with sugar, glucose and glycerin. Because of the ingredients, fondant is usually a very sweet icing. It is beautiful for covering cakes because of its ultra smooth and glossy finish. Fondant is also great for designs involving draping, hand painting, brushed embroidery, stenciling or embossing. If you are not using those elements, most skilled cake decorators are able to achieve a smooth, almost fondant-like look using a soft icing such as whipped cream or buttercream.

Images below, Cakes by Happy Eatery

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wedding cakes with style — c o n t i n u e d Groom’s cakes: Most people think of the bleeding armadillo cake from the movie Steel Magnolias when they hear “groom’s cake”. While you may want to tease your new husband, you can also surprise him with a special cake made with just him in mind. If he is a huge football fan, have the baker recreate his favorite team’s helmet. For the avid fisherman, how about creating a bass boat? You can also recreate his night out with the boys with a complete poker table. This cake can be served alongside the wedding cake, or at the more intimate rehearsal dinner.

The final touches: What will you do with the top tier of the cake? Think about using some fresh or sugar flowers to enhance the colors and design of your wedding bouquet.

Monograms are also very popular, as are the traditional bride and groom. And the details don’t stop there. Once the cake is delivered to your reception site, how will it be displayed?

Cover your table with a beautiful linen and complementary overlay. Elevate your cake and place some votive candles around for ambiance. Or how about flooding the table with rose petals? Your wedding cake vendor will help you find the best way to highlight your cake.

Remember to choose a reputable cake professional who you are comfortable with, one who can accommodate your needs and will not be affected by weather, staffing or “Plan B” on your special day. Keep all this in mind as you prepare to EAT (cake), DRINK, and BE MARRIED! ♥

By Emily Wu Emily Wu and her sister Victoria are the owners of Cakes by Happy Eatery, a full service bakery. To see their cake designs and learn more about the bakery, visit www.cakesbyhappyeatery.com.

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5

Mistakes most common

the bride might make

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ere are some simple, yet very important, guidelines to help you keep your sanity while planning your wedding:

1. Trying to do it all by yourself Enlist your fiancé, friends and family in the planning. It will be more fun, less stressful, and can be a great bonding experience. Consider using the services of a professional wedding coordinator to keep everything on track and look out for all of the details on your wedding day.

2. Failure to explore ALL of your options If you buy the first dress you try on, book the first reception site you visit or hire the first photographer you talk to, you will likely second-guess your decision later. The better strategy is to take your time, compare options and shop around. Take advantage of all of the planning resources available to you, including bridal magazines, web sites and bridal shows.

3. Failure to plan for the unexpected Planning an outdoor wedding? What if it rains? Planning a winter wedding? What if it snows? What if a member of your wedding party can't make it? You will eliminate the potential for wedding day stress by having a backup plan in place.

4. Trusting your wedding to non-professionals It's tempting to try to save money by using Uncle Charlie and his camera. After things are over, all you have are the memories ... and the photos and video. Trust the important elements of your wedding to the professionals.

In the wedding industry, there are some businesses that survive because new brides-tobe don't know their reputations. Do your research. Ask your other vendors and newly married friends for referrals. It's a close-knit industry, and soon you will know who is reliable and who is not.

5. Failure to allow time for yourself You will need a lot of energy to make it through your wedding day, so get as much rest as you can in the days prior to the big event. You are much more likely to enjoy your special day if you are not exhausted or stressed out. Treat yourself to a day at the spa, go on a quiet date with your fiancé or simply set aside time for a nap.

By avoiding these mistakes you will enjoy the planning process and your wedding day. ♥

By Marc McIntosh Marc McIntosh is the Producer of Wedding Experience, the area’s largest wedding shows. For a listing of upcoming shows visit www.weddingexperience.com.

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.wed Wedding Websites & Domain Names

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t seems almost second nature to want to create a wedding website. You can share your love story, post your engagement session photos, keep your guests in the loop, and drop not-so-subtle hints about your gift registry. And your website provides a great icebreaker for bridal party members who haven’t met yet.

“How to build a wedding website” nets over 31,000,000 (yes, million!) results on Google. Templates make design easy and hosting is often free. The basics of your wedding website should include: • • • • • • •

An “about” page which is the story of how you met and fell in love (a great place to put your e-session gallery).

A “cast of characters” that includes your bridal party and why they play a role in your wedding.

Details (date, time, location) for all events.

A registry page which you can easily update.

Guest accommodation information with links to hotels.

A way for guests to RSVP electronically for any (or all) events.

A “guest book” so friends and family can send good wishes.

Until recently, a cumbersome domain name was the biggest drawback to a wedding website. But now personalized names are available with the domain name of “.wed”.

Adrienne McAdory, a Washington DC military contractor, secured this top-level domain name through the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers with a lengthy application process and a hefty fee. In 2013 she learned that she had won the rights to .wed and launched her business vision.

“Lots of engaged couples want their own wedding websites, but the addresses they want aren’t available because other couples are already parked on them,” says Adrienne.

Through the .wed domain, a couple can purchase an inexpensive address (like mikeandmary.com) for two years. “Long enough to see them married,” she explains.

Once the two years are up, the URL’s price increases dramatically. The reason, says Adrienne, is to basically price the current couple out, leaving the address open for a new Mike and Mary. It’s fairly simple to “mask” the long URL provided by your wedding website host with your vanity domain name – and it’s a lot easier for your guests to remember.

To check the availability of your personalized domain name, visit www.get.wed. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Timely Planner This handy checklist will keep you on track with your wedding plans.

First Things First (12 months) ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Set a date Choose a ceremony site & officiant Locate a reception site Begin compiling guest list Determine a budget Enlist the services of a wedding consultant

Time to Shop (9 months) ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Shop for bridal attire Select photographer & videographer Determine your honeymoon destination Send "save the date" cards to guests

Into the Swing of Things (6 months) ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Book ceremony music & reception entertainment Choose décor and florals Select invitations Select a baker

Home Stretch (3 months) ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Finalize honeymoon plans Find a rehearsal dinner location Reserve block of rooms for out of town guests Choose wedding day transportation Try some hairstyles and makeup for your big day Arrange for marriage license Buy wedding rings

Final Countdown (1 month) ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Mail invitations Final fittings for attire and consultations with wedding vendors Purchase gifts for groom and attendants Schedule hair & makeup appointments Treat your attendants, Mom and future M-I-L to brunch or host a luncheon

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Late

for an important date!

S

ome couples say they want their wedding to be a fun, free-flowing party – not encumbered by schedules and timelines. Who doesn’t want to enjoy friends and family in a relaxed way? But a timeline is important. It can be loose and relatively uncluttered, but you need some guidelines as to how your day will evolve.

By planning in advance and structuring your timeline per your preferences, you give the professionals guidance, allowing you to enjoy your cherished friends and family. If you don’t know how to order your wedding day, or you really don’t care, defer to your wedding coordinator to help you put together a plan that will work. You can always tweak it together so it feels customized to you, your fiancé and your family’s expectations.

Planning a wedding can feel like stepping into the unknown — exciting and intimidating at the same time. Are you prepared to tackle all the details?

Relax!

Our full service coordination, coupled with expert tips and advice, will make planning your wedding seem like child’s play.

540.842.6040 www.engagementsbyballestracci.com retha.ebb@gmail.com

When in doubt, follow these two rules: 1. Start the ceremony on time. It’s rude to make your guests wait and it’s hard to make up time during the evening. You don’t want to lose time at the end of the night – generally the dancing, celebrating portion of the evening – because you didn’t start on time.

2. Start your meal service on time. If you start late, the quality of your meal will suffer and there is little that a caterer can do. A little preparation goes a long way to enjoying a fun, free-flowing party! ♥

By Johanna Goossens

Let our 5-Star reviews

WORK FOR YOU! We deliver spectacular stress-free events! Call us today!

703.314.2209 dblplatinumevents.com doubleplatinumevents@live.com

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Do’ s &Don’ts for Saying “I Do”

U

se the following Do’s & Don’ts and you’ll have all your fashionable “ducks in a row”:

#1

DO choose accessories that work with your dress style.

Don’t wear an elaborate necklace with a gown that features an already adorned neckline. For a sleeveless dress, try a simple bracelet rather than big bangles. Avoid excessive hand jewelry – keep a clean pallet so your wedding ring will shine.

#2

DON’T over accessorize.

The only distraction from the dress should be your glowing face. All accessories should complement the dress – not compete with it.

#3

DO keep jewelry classic, yet elegant.

Pearls, diamonds, neutral colored metals and stones are always safe choices. You may choose to abandon this rule for themed weddings, or if your dress is non-traditional or avant-garde.

#4

DON’T distract from beautiful hairstyles with too much “stuff”.

Consider jeweled hair pins, a mother-of-pearl comb or a diamond tiara – and just choose one.

#5

DO enhance a backless dress with a Cartier Backdrop Necklace.

Look around to find inexpensive versions and vintage look-alikes.

#6

DON’T forget that good tailoring is critical.

An inexpensive dress can be transformed to an eye-stopping piece of haute couture with the right stitching. A well altered garment should fit the body, without bunching or pinching the skin. Select a tailor with superb credentials – now’s not the time to show off your Home Ec sewing skills. #7

DO enhance your look with a body shaping undergarment.

These garments can bring an instant hour glass shape to the body, straighten posture, and even cause you to instantly appear two sizes smaller.

#8

DO remember good tailoring for the groom.

Jacket sleeves should be long enough to expose a half-inch of the dress shirt. Avoid cuffing formal trousers. A gentleman should stand out on his wedding day – play with colorful ties, bow ties, pocket squares, boutonnieres and cummerbunds. Now’s not the time to wear Chuck Taylors – unless they’re part of the wedding party’s ensemble.

In the end it’s all about you and your individual style. Always trust your inner feelings when choosing dresses, suits, tuxedos and accessories. And remember – have fun and say “I Do!” 70

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Real Brides &Weddings

BEST. DAY. EVER.

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ur first Real Brides & Weddings feature is from Ashley & Billy Maynard. Their event took place at The Osprey’s at Belmont Bay in Woodbridge, Va. This is how Ashley describes how they met along with their wedding day.

“Unfortunately we don’t have a traditional cute story to deliver, but the way we met is very “us”.

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We were both working at the same place, an IT company, and during my first week I noticed Billy sitting by himself, eating his lunch. Smooth as I am (sarcasm), I marched right up, sat next to him, and asked if I could have some of the spaghetti he was eating.

He looked at me, handed over his bowl and fork, and didn’t say one word as I ate some, handed it back, and walked away. I don’t know why, but he asked me out the next day.”

Our engagement was a similar disaster. Billy set up fireworks, a photographer, our friends, and had picked the perfect place. I didn’t realize any of this. Fireworks began going off, and he started to propose. I thought he was joking around, and being awkward as I am, began giggling uncontrollably. He was so flustered at my lack of seriousness that he didn’t go through with the proposal. (Once I realized his intentions for that evening, I felt horrible.)

Later that week, we proposed to each other in the privacy of our home where we were much more comfortable. We voiced every reason why we wanted to spend our lives together, and it was perfect.

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real brides and weddings — c o n t i n u e d

BRIDES & WEDDINGS: What local vendors did you use?

BRIDE: Windows Catering: Cake and food Wisteria Florals: All flowers Brendan Guay: DJ (friend of the family) The Osprey’s: Ceremony & Reception Venue and Bartender Adora: Videographer Melissa Arlena Photography: Photographer BRIDES & WEDDINGS: Three words that describe your wedding.

BRIDE: Best. Day. Ever.

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real brides and weddings — c o n t i n u e d

BRIDES & WEDDINGS: What was your theme? What inspired you to pick that theme?

BRIDE: At the start of wedding planning, we became fixated on simple details, like using lace for example, and ended up with it wrapped around candles, tied up in bows, hanging from chairs, on balloons…etc. We realized that we were making the decorations too “busy” and decided to completely back up and start over. We decided against any type of theme, and instead focused on making the occasion simple and elegant, without going over the top.

BRIDES & WEDDINGS: What were your wedding colors?

BRIDE: Because the wedding was in early September, and still very warm out, we chose a light summery peach as the main color, with accents of rose pink, pale yellow, cream, and gold mixed throughout the ceremony and reception.

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BRIDES & WEDDINGS: Describe the dress you chose and the moment you knew it was the one.

BRIDE: I’m not a fan of shopping of any kind. For me, picking out the dress wasn’t a huge deal. I went to one store, tried on three dresses, and picked one from among those three, which I purchased that day. I know the dress can be a huge headache for many brides, so I decided to keep it simple, make a decision, and move on.

BRIDES & WEDDINGS: Favorite detail from your wedding day?

BRIDE: We both agree that finally getting to slice into that perfect cake was the best part of the day (besides getting married of course). But seriously, it was strawberry cake with citrus cream cheese and fresh strawberry layers, covered in white chocolate buttercream icing.

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BRIDES & WEDDINGS: Describe the first dance.

BRIDE: I believe we both drank 4-5 glasses of champagne before the first dance, because we were both incredibly nervous. My mind was going crazy with images of me tripping on my dress, falling into the cake, etc… However once the song we so carefully picked out started and Billy reached for my hand, everything seemed to fall into place.

We were able to forget everyone around us and every twirl seemed like a triumphant, “We made it”.

BRIDES & WEDDINGS: Any advice for other Brides?

BRIDE: Brides, wedding planning is tough. It’s like you are running a marathon, in a wedding dress, balancing a 3-tier cake, and then someone lights it on fire. Just remember not to get caught up in all the details of the wedding. At the end of the day, it was just another day, and no one cares that the DJ played a terrible song, that the food was a little cold, or that the napkins didn’t quite match the tablecloths. All they will remember is the love that they witnessed between you and your partner, and all that’s really important is what you walk away from that day with.” ♥ If you have a Real Brides & Weddings that you would like to submit for a future publication date please visit www.bridesandweddings.com and search for Real Brides & Weddings.

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labella bridal boutique: A

PremierChoice H

ave you recently gotten engaged and starting to plan the allimportant parts of a dream wedding? We sat down with Ellalyne Brayman of Labella Bridal and she detailed some of the elements that make her bridal shop stand out above the rest. First we discussed the shop’s name, Labella Bridal; Brayman decided on this because Labella means beautiful in Italian. “When I was doing modeling in Italy it was a word I heard all the time and could see how good it would make women feel," she says. "And that is the feeling I am trying to recreate to this day. It's a very humbling experience to work with women, and help them reach a certain level where they can look at themselves and think to themselves 'labella'."

The making of a perfect wedding day....

The love of your life and a gorgeous gown from Labella

• • • • •

New as well as select designer consignment gowns Bridesmaids and Prom dresses Expert, onsite alterations and custom design Beautiful accessories and special occasion dresses Latest styles in formalwear Call today for your consultation 703.494.2929 labellabridalboutique.com Located in Old Town Occoquan 313 Mill Street, Occoquan, VA Tues-Wed: 11-5 Thurs: 11-8 Fri: 11-5 Sat: 10-6 Sun & Mon by appt.

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a premier choice — c o n t i n u e d

Brayman says, “Additionally, we pride ourselves on customer service. As we like to say, we are here to serve, not to sell. Our appointments are a minimum of one hour long and completely one-on-one with the bride. We don't let our appointments stop once she leaves for the day; we like to follow up with her over the following weeks to make sure she is not too overwhelmed.”

Another key component to the success of Labella Bridal is its location. Located in Occoquan, it’s nestled between wine shops, small cafes and the river. The picturesque setting couldn’t be more perfect. A little dress shopping, a little wine tasting and a nice lunch—sounds like a win-win to us. “Occoquan is a wonderful town to be in because it allows us to have formalwear, but not an intimidating storefront," says Brayman about why Occoquan is ideal. "It's right on the water, and is kind of a hidden secret. There's a quaint charm here, and everyone knows each other. There isn't that competition with neighboring businesses that you might feel in city areas; instead we all work together on referring customers to one another.”

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And speaking of storefronts, have you noticed their elegant windowscaping? She explains, “It really is a team effort, especially when we get in new dresses. If there's a holiday or season we want to celebrate, we plan all the windows to match accordingly, and sometimes add in hanging decorations. Sometimes you get so into decorating one window, you forget about the other three and then have to match those as well. It's a lot more work than people might expect."

As if you needed more reasons to visit Labella Bridal, they recently added on an additional bridal room with three more dressing rooms, so now they can carry a wider selection of bridal sizes. “We are also adding new formal dresses and accessories every day. Recently we got in a new line of sweet sixteen and Quinceañera dresses. We'd like to add more, but they sure take up a lot of space. Right now we are focused on spreading the word about our store and helping every customer that walks in that door,” Brayman says with a smile. Labella Bridal is located at 313 Mill Street, Occoquan, VA. ♥

By Lisa Collins-Haynes Lisa Collins-Haynes is a wife, mother and international travel writer. Her life’s tagline is “Living a liberated life of leisure.” She holds a Master of Business Administration degree.

Follow her on Instagram @living_a_ charmed_life. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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HERE COMES THE

Bride Select your wedding fashions from the finest bridal salons in Northern Virginia. Gowns, bridesmaids dresses, formal wear, accessories and shoes — it's all there at your full service independent bridal shop. For a custom designed gown, check out the area's bridal fabric retailers and designers.

And don't forget to shop for your trousseau!

Amy's Bridal Boutique 9411 Battle Street, Manassas (703) 490.2697 www.amysbridalboutique.com

Best Bridals & Tailoring 4300 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly (703) 378-3222 www.bestbridalsva.com

Ann’s Boutique 5709 Burke Center Parkway, Burke (703) 250-3100 www.annsboutique.com

Blush Bridal Boutique 15125 Washington Street, Suite 212 Haymarket (703) 753-8303 www.blushbridalboutique.com

Anna's Bridal Spot 8804 Pear Tree Village Ct, Alexandria (703) 360-4272 www.annasbridalspot.com 84

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Bobbie's Bridal Boutique 11258 James Swart Circle, Fairfax (703) 273-2629 www.bobbiesbridal.com Northern

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Bridals by Natalie 210 North Lee Street, #104, Alexandria (703) 751-8620 www.bynatalie.com

Leesburg Bridal & Tuxedo 705-D East Market St., Leesburg (703) 777-8822 www.leesburg-bridal.com

Ellie's Bridal Boutique 225 North Washington St., Alexandria (703) 683-8697 www.elliesbridal.com

Macy’s Bridal Salon by Demetrios Tysons Galleria Mall, McLean (703) 902-4330 www.demetriosbride.com

Eternity Bridal Boutique 6531-A Little River Turnpike, Alexandria (703) 354-9330 www.eternity-bridal.com

Metropolitan Formalwear Fair Oaks Mall, inside of Sears (202) 390-6633 www.metroformal.com

Global Bridal Gallery 687 South Washington Street, Alexandria (703) 739-2743 www.globalbridalgallery.com

Rosalin’s Bridal Boutique 706 S. Washington Street, Falls Church (703) 532-0288 www.rosalinsbridal.com

Gossypia 325 Cameron Street, Alexandria (703) 836-6969 www.gossypia.com

Soliloquy Bridal Couture 754 Elden Street, Suite 103, Herndon (571) 449-2580 www.soliloquybridal.com

Katherine’s Bridal Boutique 3104 Duke Street, Alexandria (703) 370-8922 www.katherinesbridalboutique.com

Trousseau 306 Maple Avenue West, Vienna (703) 255-3300 www.trousseaultd.com

Labella Bridal & Consignment Boutique 313 Mill Street, Occoquan (703) 494-2929 www.labellabridalboutique.com

White Swan Bridal 425 Maple Avenue West, Vienna (703) 255-9032 www.whiteswanbridal.com

Le Reve Bridal & Tuxedo 213 Loudoun Street SE, Leesburg (703) 777-3757 www.lerevebridal.com

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gowns galore!

O

utside of rings, one of the most iconic symbols of the wedding day is your bridal gown.

From traditional ball gowns to dare to bare fit and flair styles, your dress selection is only limited by your imagination – and your budget. The odds are pretty good that you have never shopped for an article of clothing with so much emotional attachment and at such a price point. Where to begin?

Let’s first dispense with the notion that you can get that $1500 gown from a well-known bridal designer, selling at your local bridal salon, for $200 online. Cyberspace is full of disappointed brides who, thinking they were getting a steal of deal, were just getting ripped off. If the dress even shows up, it is made of poor quality fabric and inferior craftsmanship. The bridal salon industry has been assisting U.S. Customs and other government agencies in shutting down hundreds of these rip-off bridal gown sites.

But they keep popping up, so buyer beware!

Bridal salons have very specific guidelines for pricing dresses.

Gown manufacturers give salons a “floor price” at which they can sell their latest styles. Samples of those styles can be marked down after a certain period of time. Sample sales are a wonderful way to pick up a designer gown at a great price – be sure to check for them on www.bridesandweddings.com.

Unlike purchasing ready-to-wear fashions, shopping for the right gown requires time. If you are not shopping the sample rack or ordering a gown with a quick turnaround time (see the Priority Line by Maggie Sottero featured in this issue), expect to wait about six to eight months for your gown to be delivered.

Manufacturers wait until there are enough gowns in that particular style and size before fulfilling orders, thus the time lag.

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H O W T O S H O P F O R T H AT SPECIAL DRESS Most gowns are produced overseas, so time must be allowed for shipping and clearing customs before delivery to your salon. Then you will have a preliminary fitting, followed by a final fitting before you walk out with your dream dress. The moral of the story: SHOP EARLY! Another difference between bridal and ready to wear is the amount of time you will need to try on and evaluate your options. Do yourself a favor – schedule an appointment with your local bridal salon and receive the undivided attention of your gown consultant. Many salons offer after-hour “VIP appointments” where you can have the salon to yourself.

Whichever appointment route you take, keep your entourage to a minimum. We’ve all seen “Say Yes to the Dress” where the bride has half of her home town with her. As the saying goes, “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” One or two trusted friends or family members are all you need.

It might sound like common sense but please be sure to shower and wear undergarments to your appointment. Salons offer long-line bras for trying on dresses, giving you a better idea of how the dress should fit. Keep makeup to a minimum to help protect gowns. And speaking of protecting the gowns, bridal salons are not a place for children. Unless you are shopping for a flower girl dress, hire a babysitter and enjoy the experience of shopping without distraction.

While shopping, it’s important to keep an open mind on styles and fabrics. You may have your heart set on a particular gown, but how it looks on a model and how it looks on you are two different realities. And just because a dress doesn’t look all that compelling on a hanger, it doesn’t mean that it won’t make you look like a million bucks. Your bridal salon professional knows what styles are most flattering on different body types. Trust your gown consultant – she wants a happy customer.

And that trust runs both ways. Be upfront with your consultant about your dress budget.

There are beautiful dresses at every price point, but there will be differences in fabric and workmanship. Stick to your price range and you won’t fall in love with a dress you can’t afford.

You may find that the size you wear in street clothes is different from your bridal gown.

Don’t freak out if you normally wear a size 10 and your gown is ordered in a 12 (or even a 14). After taking your measurements, your consultant will compare them to the designer’s size chart. Dresses are made to order (remember the manufacturer is waiting for enough of the same style and size), so count on alterations.

Order according to your current measurements – it’s easier to take in a gown than let it out.

This is also a good time to collaborate with your consultant on customization options, such as sleeves, necklines and trains. Once you’ve made your selection, the salon will require a non-refundable deposit and a signed contract as wedding gowns are typically not returnable.

By keeping your expectations (your dream dress) in line with reality (your budget), allowing plenty of time for shopping, and trusting your consultant, shopping for your gown will be one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding planning. Relax and enjoy the experience! ♥ www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Grooms get involved

A

Images Courtesy of Sarno & Sons. Styles available at Amy's Bridal Boutique

s the cost of weddings rise, as well as the age of today’s bride and groom, many couples find themselves sharing the cost of their wedding, with little to no help from their parents. Although there are benefits in being able to make the wedding completely unique, along with showcasing the couple’s styles and personalities, the groom’s financial obligation has opened the door to the vast world of weddings.

The groom now has an opinion on something he has never thought of before, while the bride has been following her favorite wedding blogs for over two years now. In preparing to go on the wedding planning journey together, it is very important the couple finds effective communication tools to make the experience one that brings them closer. And both parties must compromise in order to have key elements that are important to each of them.

A great way to start the process is to sit down with a list of all the vendors that need to be hired and decide on who will be in charge of paying for, booking and communicating with each one. For example, if the groom is really into music, then he should be in charge of hiring the DJ or band; if the bride is an avid photographer, she should choose their wedding photographer. The couple should find their three favorite vendors, and then research the pros and cons of each so they can make the final decision together.

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grooms — c o n t i n u e d Here is a helpful checklist, revised for today’s groom.

TWELVE MONTHS OR LESS ▲ Decide on the division of financial obligations and vendor communication. ▲ Set budget for the entire wedding. ▲ Ask parents or relatives if they plan on contributing and how much. ▲ Prepare a guest list with addresses and titles by asking family and relatives on groom’s side. ▲ Research designated vendors, set up appointments and book. ▲ Choose best man, groomsmen and ushers. ▲ Decide on where you are going for your honeymoon, and get passports if necessary. ▲ Decide on where the rehearsal dinner is going to be held and send deposit. ▲ Select bride's engagement ring.

SIX MONTHS OR LESS ▲ Select the style tuxedo and vest colors for all men in the wedding party and register at a formalwear store. ▲ Confirm reservations for the honeymoon. ▲ Buy wedding rings. ▲ Decide on rehearsal dinner menu and order invitations.

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Let all attendants know the time and location of the rehearsal practice.

Turn in necessary form at work to take time off for the wedding and honeymoon.

ONE MONTH AHEAD ▲ Set up final meetings with designated vendors. ▲ Mail rehearsal dinner invitations. ▲ Purchase gifts for your attendants. ▲ Purchase any items needed for the honeymoon. ▲ Confirm honeymoon details and reservations. ▲ Confirm all attendants ordered tuxes. ▲ Make arrangements for lunch with groomsmen the day of the wedding.

THE WEEK OF THE WEDDING ▲ Confirm all attendants have a timeline. ▲ Confirm all vendors have a timeline. ▲ Get a haircut (early in the week). ▲ Give final guest count to the caterer for the rehearsal dinner. ▲ Pick up the wedding rings from the jeweler or have them cleaned. ▲ Pick up tuxes and have all groomsmen try them on two days before the wedding. ▲ Pack for honeymoon.

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Priority IT’S A

T

oday’s brides are often planning a wedding in less than six months. For those who don’t want to go the sample sale route, but don’t have a lot of time to purchase a gown, designer Maggie Sottero offers a collection of popular styles known as Priority. Depending on the selection, you’ll have your dress in about eight weeks. Some embellishments are not available on Priority gowns, so check www.maggiesottero.com for details and store locations.

LEFT: Bold lace appliqués, accented with sparkling Swarovski crystals, trail the length of this extravagant A-line wedding dress, complete with sweetheart neckline and dramatic illusion lace back.

A: With an eye to timeless romance, this slim A-line design features a delicate, sweetheart neckline and gorgeous beaded lace motifs dancing across tulle.

B: This stunning tulle sheath gown is accented with dainty lace appliqués on the bodice and a delicate Swarovski crystal waist.

C: A dreamy lace and tulle slim line gown with V-neckline and cap-sleeves features a separate slip gown of Vogue Satin to be worn below.

Includes a detachable satin ribbon belt.

D: Beautifully embellished lace adorns this dramatic fit and flare, with a sweetheart neckline and subtle sparkle.

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A dramatic illusion lace back and sleeves adorn this handembellished sheath gown, glimmering with metallic lace appliquĂŠs and embroidered with beading.

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This enthralling silhouette features splendid embellished lace and tulle curving the hips and leading into beautiful fullness throughout the gently gathered A-line skirt.

This style features compelling Alencon Lace adorned with sparkling sequins and beading. The strapless neckline is enhanced with scalloped edging, while a satin ribbon and glistening brooch accent ornaments the waist. www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Exquisite lace and dazzling Swarovski crystals combine to create this strapless fit and flare wedding dress.

A: Delicate corded lace on tulle skims the shoulders and neckline of this lightweight gown while buttons trail a zipper closure accenting an illusion back.

B: Demir Stretch Satin provides sleek luster to this slender silhouette. Ruching envelopes the bodice and asymmetrically plummets below the waist, while the train pours into a gorgeous balloon hem.

C: Understated, yet rich in design, this tulle and Chic Organza fit and flare features a slimming ruched bodice, with a textured swirling rosette skirt.

D: Exquisite bead embroidered lace adorns the bodice in this sheath wedding dress with Swarovski crystal neckline and stunning double keyhole back.

Bridal Attire

Checklist

B

ridal attire is more than just a gown.

This handy checklist, courtesy of Trousseau Ltd., will keep you – and the ladies who play a key role in your wedding day – looking great from head to toe.

Bridal Attendants: ❏ Foundation ❏ Dyeable Shoes and Handbag ❏ Jewelry ❏ Hair Ornaments

Personal Attire: ❏ Tiara, Hairpins, Headband or Comb ❏ Bridal Veil ❏ Bridal Jewelry ❏ Garter ❏ Bridal Foundation Bustiers and Shapewear to Look Your Best! ❏ Hosiery ❏ Shoes ❏ Handbag or Make-up Pouch ❏ Handkershief ❏ Gloves ❏ Wedding Night & Honeymoon Lingerie ❏ Get fitted with Trousseau’s Bra Expert

Mothers of the Bride and Groom: ❏ Foundation ❏ Dyeable Shoes and Handbag ❏ Jewelry and Hair Ornaments

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Stationery: ❏ Save the Date Cards ❏ Wedding Invitations ❏ Thank-you Notes & Personal Stationery Bridal Accessories: ❏ Guestbook and Pen ❏ Ringbearer Pillow ❏ Cake Knife and Toasting Flutes ❏ Lucky Sixpence

Northern

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It’sAll in the Hair L

ooking for something special to top off your wedding day look? Consider these beautiful hair accessories from Leesburg Bridal and Trousseau Ltd of Vienna. Hair: Mary Taylor, Brush Strokes. Makeup: Krystal Treadwell, Brush Strokes. Images: Dawn Garnder, DG Photography.

T

your beauty timeline

o help you plan for hair and makeup, here’s a timeline for looking, booking and getting ready for your big day:

6-12 months: Read reviews of local hair stylists and makeup artists. Be sure to ask your wedding vendors for recommendations — bridal salon staff and your photographer are great resources. Bridal shows are also a good way to find beauty professionals and often provide an opportunity to see their work. Book your hair stylist and makeup artist as soon as possible – especially if you are getting married during a popular month like May or October. Early booking will mean less stress later!

3-6 months: This is the time hair styling and makeup trials. your vision for your hair and with your professionals. Try options and take pictures.

to book Go over makeup all your

If possible, book your appointments on a day when you can try on your gown, so you can see your complete look.

To help things run smoothly the day of your wedding, keep these timeframes in mind: Bride's hair & makeup: Allow 1-1/2 hours for your styling. This gives enough time to get it right and to make any tweaks from the trial run. The bride’s makeup should be applied while her hair is being set or after her hair is finished.

Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Each bridesmaid should allow 35-40 minutes for her hair styling and the same amount of time for her makeup. Hairstyling can range from just a few minutes for a simple primping to an hour or more for an intricate up-do. It is better to overestimate how much time is needed.

This allows for different styling choices and last minute add-ons.

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Rescue to the

N

o matter how organized you are and how much planning you’ve done before the wedding, you should always expect the unexpected. And an emergency kit for your wedding day is the best way to prepare.

If building your own kit, start at least two or three months before the wedding so you can gather the items over time. This allows you to consider the possible needs of your close friends and family. Designate someone to be responsible for the emergency kit, bringing it from location to location and keeping it readily available.

Suggested emergency kit items:

• • • • • • • • • •

Band-Aids Blotting papers Bobby pins Bottle of water Clear nail polish Deodorant Emery board Feminine products Hairspray Hand lotion

• • • • • • • • • •

Hand sanitizer Lipstick or lip gloss Mints Pain reliever Qtips Safety pins Small lint brush Super glue Tissues Tums/Rolaids

• Sewing Kit with scissors • Granola bars or other easy-to-carry snacks • Straws (you don’t want to mess up your lipstick) • Chalk, tied for easy packing, hides scuffs and marks on white leather and fabrics.

You will also want to make a list of items to carry in your purse.

• Cell phone • Mirror • Handkerchief or tissues • Nail file • Lip gloss or lipstick to match makeup • Perfume One of the great advantages to hiring a day-of coordinator is the extensive emergency kit this professional brings to every wedding. Your coordinator will carry glue and staple guns, floral wire, hundreds of safety pins, fasteners, packing tape, lighters, scissors and more – there is nothing the kit can’t handle!

So remember, either put your emergency kit in the hands of a professional or start putting yours together early and you’ll be prepared for anything! ♥ www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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DO or DIY I

n today's economy, it’s often difficult to stay within a predetermined budget for a wedding and reception. As a result, there are more do-it-yourself (DIY) brides. Financial constraints lead many couples to decide to do their own flowers or have friends and family members assist with centerpieces and pew decorations.

While it may seem like a sound idea at the time – and a way to cut costs, it can also introduce more problems than perhaps it is worth. For example, mixing professionally produced fresh bouquets with homemade silk decor often results in mismatched colors and styles. The DIY route may work on occasion, but in hindsight, many couples often wish they could go back and hire a professional. By working with your florist – and having realistic expectations for what you can get for your dollar, you can have truly memorable pieces for any theme, color palette and budget.

By going the DIY route, it's not just the look and feel of arrangements that may suffer.

Most experienced florists have cultivated personal relationships with several flower wholesalers who give them access to volume pricing and an ability to track down hardto-find flowers and supplies. The DIY bride, in most cases, does not have these connections at her disposal and will pay retail prices for a limited selection of flowers. A great deal of time is spent just on researching flowers and how to get them, everything takes much longer than anticipated, and it’s often a lot more expensive than initially thought. Why would you want to put yourself in such a frustrating and stressful situation?

Let the floral professional take care of everything for you. It may cost a little more, but working with a professional provides coordination, heads off a multitude of possible problems and alleviates stress. And many designers do not mind if a bride provides her own containers, ribbon, and decorative items, as it adds a more personal and intimate touch.

If you insist on buying your own flowers and arranging, transporting and setting them up on site, you probably don’t need a floral designer’s services. But remember, the final results will always be caught in pictures. And forever is a long time. Unless you are trained in the art of floral design, or know someone who is, leave it to the professionals. Before you say "I do,” think about what a professional can do for you on your most special of days. After all, it's what we do. ♥

By Hilary Panning Hilary Panning is the owner of Fleurtations and specializes in a personalized approach to floral design. To schedule a consultation, call 703.878.6781 and visit www.fleurtations-floral.com.

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Fleurtations Floral Designs with European Flair Created by Hilary Panning

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Showers

Image by Sarah Lanette Photography

Free Consultation

703.878.6781 www.fleurtations-floral.com

Floral checklist

To keep you on track with your floral needs, here is a brief checklist: ❒ Bride’s Bouquet

❒ Groom’s Boutonniere

❒ Maid/Matron of Honor Bouquet

❒ Best Man’s Boutonniere

❒ Bridesmaids’ Bouquets ❒ Flower Girl’s Bouquet or Basket ❒ Floral Headpieces ❒ Hostesses’ Flowers ❒ Mothers’ & Grandmothers’ Corsages ❒ Fathers’ & Grandfathers’ Boutonnieres

❒ Ushers’ Boutonnieres ❒ Ring Bearer’s Pillow ❒ Ring Bearer’s Boutonniere ❒ Altar or Chuppah Flowers ❒ Aisle or Pew Decorations ❒ Reception Room Flowers ❒ Head Table Centerpiece ❒ Guest Table Centerpieces ❒ Cake/Buffet Table

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Wedding Flower Realness Flowers provide stunning backdrops and props for your wedding photos, capture your sense of style, and bring color and contrast to your day. We thought we’d provide a little “Pinterest in Print” by showing you weddings recently designed by our floral clients – bridal party flowers, centerpieces, ceremony décor and all those little details you love.

Fleurtations Florals

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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MULTI-CULTURAL

Marriages H

ere in ethnically diverse Northern Virginia, multi-cultural marriages embody the best of customs and traditions. Here are just a few: Chinese: The color red is considered a symbol of happiness and luck. It is often used on invitations.

Greek: The bride carries a lump of sugar to ensure a sweet life. Ivy in her bouquet represents endless love.

Hindu: Prior to the wedding day, the bride is tattooed with henna on her hands and feet, known as Mehndi. She wears a red sari embroidered in gold to symbolize abundance and fertility.

Persian: During the ceremony married women place a white satin cloth above the couple’s heads. Two cones of sugar are placed in the cloth and rubbed together to represent snowflakes of sweetness and joy.

Latin American: A cord called “el lazo” is placed around the couple during the ceremony, signifying they are bound for life.

Italian: On her wedding day, the bride does not wear any gold as it is thought to bring bad luck.

Jewish: At the end of the wedding ceremony, the groom breaks a napkinwrapped wine glass under his foot as remembrance of the destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

African American: To pay homage to ancestors from days of slavery, couples “jump the broom” to sweep away the old and embrace the new. ♥ 106 . . . . . . B r i d e s & W e d d i n g s o f N o r t h e r n V i r g i n i a

PHOTOGRAPHY

Checklist ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Bride dressing for ceremony Bride, full-length solo Bride with parents Bride with mother & father separately Bride with grandparents Bride with sisters & brothers Bride with maid of honor Bride with attendants Bride with ring bearer, flower girl Garter being put on Groom, full-length solo Groom with parents Groom with mother & father separately Groom with grandparents Groom with sisters & brothers Groom with best man Groom with groomsmen Groom with bride’s parents being seated for ceremony Bridesmaids walking down the aisle Flower girl, ring bearer walking down the aisle Bride and father approaching altar or canopy Bride’s father giving her hand to groom Exchange of vows

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Ring ceremony Recessional Formal bride & groom together Newlyweds and parents Newlyweds and entire bridal party Close-ups of bride’s & groom’s hands clasped together Receiving line — guests and bridal party Cake table Bride & groom cutting/feeding each other cake Best man toasting newlyweds Newlyweds toasting each other Cake and punch servers Musicians Newlyweds’ first dance Guests dancing Bride tossing bouquet Groom removing garter Guests throwing rice Newlyweds getting into limousine or car Post-reception party Bride’s mother assisting her into going-away outfit Bridegroom alone with new stepchildren

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WEDDING GALLERY

AE Landes Photography

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WEDDING GALLERY

AE Landes Photography

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WEDDING GALLERY

DG Photography

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WEDDING GALLERY

DG Photography

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WEDDING GALLERY

Rob Jinks

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WEDDING GALLERY

Rob Jinks

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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shop smart for your

P

photo booth

hoto booths are a great way to capture pictures of all the guests who came to celebrate your wedding, as well as fill the downtime during the reception. But photo booths are not all the same. If you are thinking of adding a photo booth to your big day, here are some tips to help you choose the right one: GET A VISUAL: Before renting a booth just based on price, make sure to see pictures of the photo booth that will actually be at your event. Photo booth rental companies have different styles of booths in an array of shapes and sizes. Most companies use some sort of box style layout with drapes. Some simply provide a backdrop to stand in front of and have a camera set up on a tripod to snap your pictures, while others provide sophisticated designs with custom backgrounds, live LCD displays, and customizable panels. A visual not only allows you to see if your booth will match the aesthetics of your wedding, but also lets you know if its size is ideal for your event space.

MAKE SURE THE PHOTOS WILL LAST: Equipment is important, especially if you want to blow up the photos taken in the booth (which would require a high megapixel DSLR camera). But other factors contribute to the quality of the prints. Photo booths are designed to take advantage of space limitations, so lighting (both inside the booth as well as the type of flash) and printer’s DPI (dots per inch) are very important.

Ask if the photo booth can provide professional, lab quality photo prints. Some companies use ink jet printers which are prone to fading, smearing and the images do not last. How fast is the printing process? Now, the difference between 10 and 20 seconds might not seem like a big deal, but take this time difference and add it up over the course of a fourhour reception. The speed of the printer allows guests to take more pictures in the booth, determines the length of the line which forms outside the booth and allows more overall photos during the course of your event.

PERSONALIZE YOUR PHOTO BOOTH EXPERIENCE: Many companies advertise that they can provide customized layouts and designs. However, what’s their definition of ‘customized’? Don’t be fooled by companies claiming to customize layouts/logos and then show you simple captions on print. These businesses tend to not have professional grade software and/or lack the expertise of a graphic designer to do a true customization for you. w w w . B r i d e s a n d W e d d i n g s . c o m . . . . . . . . . . . .115

photo booth— c o n t i n u e d Think about the wedding’s color scheme. Can the vendor change the color of customized designs? Can the company change the background color to meet your needs? The background color/material is very important as it will determine the quality of prints by allowing guests to really stand out in pictures. What happens if you would like to decorate the outside of the booth with a poster-size picture or wrap? Consider what the booth is made of – with some materials, like fabric, these customizations are not possible.

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR: Many companies claim they offer photo booth rentals.

However, it is simply an add-on service to their core business and not their specialty. Make sure the company you are dealing with is reputable. Is this a full-time business or just something the company does on the side?

Check what is included in each price quote. Often vendors will try to lure you in with a low startup cost and then charge for extras such as a customized logo, customized design, or live display slide-shows of pictures taken during your event. Do you have to pay for setup/tear down? Are there travel/delivery fees to your event’s location?

Many companies will offer different packages that include different features and functionality. Sometimes they can be confusing to differentiate, so make sure you fully understand what you are getting. Make sure it is an apples-to-apples comparison. Some companies advertise that they will match or beat any competitor’s price. But are they matching the quality, reputation, experience and service of their competitors as well? ♥

By Michael Stump Michael Stump is the Owner of Tip Top Photo Booths, an elite photo booth rental agency.

To see their booths and samples of their work, visit www.tiptopphotobooths.com.

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I

Why a DJ?

n today's world of MP3 players, smart phones, Bluetooth speakers, and streaming services, why hire a DJ? It’s a common question that’s being asked more and more.

Here are a few reasons why a DJ still has an important place at your event: • A DJ will interact with you and your guests and adjust the playlist accordingly to get folks dancing.

• A DJ is the master of ceremonies who makes those important announcements and, along with the event planner and venue staff, keeps the reception moving.

• Choosing a DJ is less expensive than renting a professional PA system.

• DJ’s come with backup equipment – does your rental?

• Professional DJ’s carry liability insurance.

• The equipment is managed by a professional so you don’t have to ask a friend to be a part of your reception by manning the music.

Do your research to get an idea of what a DJ costs and then plan it into your budget.

Meet with potential DJ’s in person. There are different personalities that do not come out over a phone and you want to make sure that you fit together. Have everything in writing and a contract to protect both parties. And be sure to ask your other vendors for recommendations. They see – and hear – a lot of DJ’s. ♥

By Joe Peralis Joe Peralis is the owner of Firedog Entertainment, a full service company offering DJ services, custom lighting and photo booths. To learn more visit www.firedogdjs.com.

DJ & Master of Ceremony Lighting Design Photo Booth Video Montage

Photography by Marirosa

Image: Butterfly Photography

Because YOU’RE that important.

571.248.1126 WWW.FIREDOGDJS.COM

Customized, one-stop entertainment shopping for a memorable event www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Paradise Found R

omance, romance, romance – whether it’s found in an exotic port of call like Costa Rica or Fiji, a history rich experience in Paris or Greece, or our own tropical delight of Hawaii, you’ll find paradise in one of these locales for your honeymoon or destination wedding. Let one of these travel professionals help you plan that trip of a lifetime! Images provided by Power Trips Travel and Divine Destination Weddings & Honeymoons.

in Fiji.

Island Resort e Royal Davui th stop. es or rib do sc ur de ude best e right at yo ar e ur nt ve Romantic solit ad ral cuzzi suites. ling and cultu ng huts and ja ni di e Diving, snorke at iv pr ly resort offers This adults on

n for its ! Santorini is know the Greek Islands e lik ts ce an an ch m en ro os ys Nothing sa d of Mykon itecture. The islan ch ar e iqu un d s. an beauty stal clear water y beaches and cry visitors with sand

333 consists of Idyllic Fiji over a lands spread magnificent is ocean. kilometers of million square stle of bu e hustle and Away from th koriki To s, rt land reso other larger is private eling of a gives the fe ws in a ange your vo retreat. Exch nd chapel. charming isla

m outdoor everyone, fro r fo ng hi et ll a tranquil ides som ll shower. Stro sta Rica prov fa Co er at of w ty ng au xi la a.

The lush be zip line to a re Resort and Sp a tree canopy o from Springs an lc Vo adventure on al en Ar y the view of beach or enjo

Lights – but it as the City of n ow kn is ris Pa as the City of sily be known ea as st ju d ul co Champskiss under the Love. Share a the Eiffel joy a picnic by er by the de-Elysees, en e day with dinn th h is fin d an Tower e. mantic boat rid Seine and a ro

uai, the Lanai and Ka awaii, Maui, H e s, inspiring lik he es ac m island na cluded be Se ul t. tif ea au tr be re ith al W n tropic America’s ow s await you.

50th state is taking sunset th ea br d an ntains volcanic mou

5 reasons to use a

Honeymoon Travel Specialist D

id you know that the services of a professional travel agent come at no cost to you? Why stress over planning the most special trip of your life. Read on and learn from Travel Consultant Sandy Pullen of Divine Destination Weddings & Honeymoons five reasons to use a professional agent: Customized Services: Whether you are looking for breathtaking beaches, amazing mountains or a Greece adventure, travel consultants who specialize in honeymoons and destination weddings understand that each traveler is unique. An agent's first step will be to talk with you and understand your specific travel needs, interests and desires, then translate them into your own personalized travel adventure.

Best Value: A professional travel consultant will use industry relationships to offer you exclusive vacation packages, amenities and travel specials that you won't find anywhere else, as well as help you get the most value for your travel budget.

All in the Details: Travel is no longer simple. There are so many details that go into every trip. Your honeymoon specialist will guide you throughout the entire travel process: provide packing tips and transfer options, advise on the best excursions, tell you how to find that secluded spot at the resort, give restaurant recommendations - and even explain the rules to shuffleboard!

Rest Assured: You are your travel consultant's top priority. If anything should go wrong during your trip, such as a flight being changed, your professional travel agent is there for you!

Seek a Specialist: Many consultants who specialize in destination weddings and honeymoons are also certified specialists for many locations, hotels and resorts. They travel to — and around — popular spots, stay in the rooms, eat the food and meet the staff. Experience, education and continued training allow consultants to use their expertise to make sure your trip turns out above and beyond what you dreamed it would be. ♼ Connect with Divine Destination Weddings & Honeymoons via their website (www.divinedw.com) or call 703.282.8178.

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HONEYMOON

Checklist AI R FAR E

$

G R O U N D T R A N S P O RTAT I O N

$

HOTEL OR LODGE

$

FOOD & BEVERAGE

$

T I P S & G R AT U I T I E S

$

SIGHTSEEING

$

SHOPPING

$

TOTA L

$

TRAVEL AGENCY PHONE D E ST I N AT I O N

AIRLINE FLIGHT NO. DEPARTU R E/AR R IVAL

CRUISE LINE/SHIP CABIN NO. DEPARTU R E/AR R IVAL

Whether it’s celebrating your vows on a private beach, honeymooning in an exotic locale or simply enjoying a romantic escape, we’ll make your journey a flawless experience.

R ESORT/HOTEL PHONE R E S E R VAT I O N S

Pack these essentials: ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Airline tickets Passports/Visas Camera, film Sewing kit Medicines/Prescriptions Extra contact lenses or glasses Credit cards Toiletries Electrical plug adapters Travel iron Clock radio, travel size Travelers checks Hair dryer

Your concierge travel experts

703.282.8178 • divinedw.com dana@divinedw.com www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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Find us on Facebook @ Outside the Window

Hand-painted salvage windows!

Great for wedding decor or a one of a kind gift for that special couple.

holli rathman

301.452.5575 • holli@hollirathman.com

C u s t o m D e s i g n s Av a i l a b l e U p o n R e q u e s t .

Directory BANQUET VENUES

Regency at Dominion Valley

COUNTRY CLUBS

(571) 261-3335 (See pg. 21) www.eventsatregency.com

Bull Run Golf

River Creek

(703) 753-7777 www.golfbullrun.com

(See pg. 11)

(703) 779-2022 www.rivercreekclub.com

(See pg. 2)

Shenandoah Valley Golf Club

Chantilly National

(703) 631-9560 (See pg. 3) www.chantilly-national.com

(540) 635-3588 (See pg. 26) www.shenandoahvalleygolfclub.com Stonewall Golf

Georgetown Traditions, Penderbrook Fairfax

(703) 491-1124 (See pg. 25) www.penderbrookgolf.com

(703) 753-6156 (See pg. 23) www.stonewallgolfclub.com

RESTAURANTS

Heritage Hunt

2941 Restaurant

(703) 743-2005 (See pg. 15) www.heritagehuntgolf.com

(703) 270-1601 (See pg. 22) www.2941.com Brass Cannon (703) 753-6140 (See pg. 23) www.stonewallgolfclub.com

Hidden Creek

(703) 437-5222 www.hiddencreekcc.com

(See pg. 25)

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse

Piedmont Club

(703) 753-5922 ext. 225 www.piedmontclub.com

(See pg. 3)

(703) 639-3080 (See inside back cover) www.chimasteakhouse.com

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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(The) Fish Market

(703) 836-5676 www.fishmarketva.com

(See pg. 45)

HISTORIC PROPERTIES

Malones of Manassas

Oatlands Plantation

(571) 208-1246 (See pg. 52) www.malonesofmanassas.com

(703) 777-3174 www.oatlands.org

HOTELS

Waverly Mansion

Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks

(703) 352-2525 (See pg. 37) www.marriott.com/IADMC Hilton Garden Inn Woodbridge

(703) 590-2800 (See pg. 35) www.woodbridge.hgi.com Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston

(703) 243-9800 www.hiarlington.com

(See pg. 27)

(301) 572-7744 (See Back Cover) www.historicwaverlymansion.com

CLUBS & COMMUNITY CENTERS Fort Myer Officers’ Club

(703) 524-0200 www.jbmhhmwr.com

(See pg. 13)

Manassas Park Community Center

Holiday Inn Washington Dulles

(703) 480-7422 www.hidullesairport.com

(See pg. 18)

(See pg. 42)

UNIQUE PLACES

B&B’S / INNS

Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast

(703) 335-8872 (See pg. 51) manassasparkcommunitycenter.com

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, ART CENTERS

(703) 327-5911 (See pg. 33) www.briarpatchbandb.com

Hylton Performing Arts Center

Marriott Ranch

WATERFRONT

(540) 364-2627 www.marriottranch.com

(See pg. 52)

Poplar Springs Inn & Spa

(540) 227-7028 (See pg. 19) www.poplarspringsinn.com

FARM/BARN WEDDINGS Salem Oaks Farm

(540) 687-4256 (See pg. 31) www.salemoaksfarm.com

(703) 993-9344 (See pg. 1) www.hyltoncenter.org/rentals

Anchor Inn

(301) 572-7744 (See Back Cover) www.anchorinnmd.com Celebrations at the Bay

(301) 572-7744 (See Back Cover) www.celebrationsatthebay.com Harbour View

(703) 910-4273 (See pg. 9) www.harbourviewevents.com

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“ACROSS THE POTOMAC”

CAKES Cakes by Happy Eatery

(The) Villa

(301) 572-7744 (See Back Cover) www.thevillaweddingvenue.com

BRIDAL ATTIRE & ACCESSORIES

(703) 530-8898 (See pg. 63) www.cakesbyhappyeatery.com

CATERING Cakes by Happy Eatery

(703) 530-8898 (See pg. 63) www.cakesbyhappyeatery.com Catering by Uptown

Amy’s Bridal Boutique

(703) 490-2697 (See pg. 71) www.amysbridalboutique.com

(301) 572-7744 (See Back Cover) www.cateringbyuptown.com

Labella Bridal & Ladies Apparel Boutique

Helga’s Caterers

(703) 494-2929 (See pg. 81) www.labellabridalboutique.com Labella Too!

(Alterations & Custom Design) “Sew little time.”

(703) 494-2929 (See pg. 81) www.labellabridalboutique.com Trousseau

(703) 255-3300 www.trousseaultd.com

(See pg. 97)

BRIDAL PARTY OUTINGS

Maison Culinaire

(703) 618-0726 (See pg. 51) www.maisonculinaire.com Marriott Ranch

(540) 364-2627 www.marriottranch.com

(See pg. 52)

CONSULTANTS/ COORDINATORS Amy’s Bridal Boutique

(703) 490-2697 (See pg. 71) www.amysbridalboutique.com Double Platinum Events

Dansk Day Spa

(703) 492-1991 www.danskdayspa.com

(703) 556-0780 (See pg. 29) www.helgascatering.com

(See pg. 100)

(703) 314-2209 (See pg. 69) www.doubleplatinumevents.com Engagements by Ballestracci

BRIDAL SHOWS

(540) 842-6040 (See pg. 69) www.engagementsbyballestracci.com

TRose International Bridal Show

(See pgs. 55) www.trosebridalshows.com

DANCE LESSONS

Washington Wedding Experience

(The) Wedding Dance Specialists

(301) WEDDING (See pgs. 6&7) www.weddingexperience.com

(703) 626-7016 (See pgs. 55) www.theweddingdancespecialists.com

Wedding Salon

DAY SPAS

www.weddingsalon.com

(See pg. 49)

Dansk Day Spa

The A Bridal Show

www.theabridalshow.com (See pg. 53)

(703) 492-1991 www.danskdayspa.com

(See pg. 100)

www.BridesandWeddings.com.

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127

DÉCOR

Marriott Ranch

Outside the Window

(301) 452-5575 (See pg. 124) Facebook: Outside the Window

ENTERTAINMENT Firedog Entertainment

(703) 623-7786 www.firedogdjs.com

(See pg. 117)

FAVORS

(703) 623-7786 www.firedogdjs.com

(See pg. 117)

(703) 623-7786 www.firedogdjs.com

(See pg. 117)

(703) 843-4658 (See pg. 116) www.tiptopphotobooths.com

Fleurtations

(703) 878-6781 (See pg. 103) www.fleurtations-floral.com

GIFTS

PHOTOGRAPHERS AE Landes Photography

(703) 539-2049 (See pg. 107) www.aelandesphotography.com DG Photography

Outside the Window

(301) 452-5575 (See pg. 124) Facebook: Outside the Window

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast

(703) 327-5911 (See pg. 33) www.briarpatchbandb.com Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks

(See pg. 37)

(703) 981-7109 (See pg. 106) www.dawngardner.com Rob Jinks Photography

(703) 401-7695 (See pg. 114) www.robertjinksphotography.com

TRAVEL AGENTS Divine Destination Weddings & Honeymoons

(703) 282-8178 (See pg. 123) www.divinedestinationweddings.com Power Trips

Hilton Garden Inn Woodbridge

(See pg. 35)

Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston

(See pg. 27)

Holiday Inn Washington Dulles

(703) 480-7422 www.hidullesairport.com

Firedog Entertainment

Tip Top Photo Booths

FLORAL DESIGNERS

(703) 243-9800 www.hiarlington.com

LIGHTING & SPECIAL EFFECTS

Firedog Entertainment

(703) 530-8898 (See pg. 63) www.cakesbyhappyeatery.com

(703) 590-2800 www.woodbridge.hgi.com

(See pg. 52)

PHOTO BOOTHS

Cakes by Happy Eatery

(703) 352-2525 www.marriott.com/IADMC

(540) 364-2627 www.marriottranch.com

(See pg. 37)

(703) 754-7509 (See pg. 123) www.powertripstravel.com

WEDDING WEBSITES .WED

Your personalized domain name!

(240) 476-9595 www.get.wed (See Inside Front Cover)

128 . . . . . . B r i d e s & W e d d i n g s o f N o r t h e r n V i r g i n i a