NewsTribune_Dream Weddings_013021

Dream Weddings ILLINOIS VALLEY

JANUARY 2021

GETTING MARRIED IN A PANDEMIC YEAR How couples are coping ALSO: 2020 brides offer wedding planning advice A wedding planning checklist The rise of dessert tables at weddings

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Dream Weddings 426 Second Street La Salle, Illinois 61301 (815) 223-3200 (800) 892-6452 www.newstrib.com

OUTDOOR WEDDINGS Check out popular outdoor wedding venues in the Illinois Valley.

Publisher Dan Goetz

A PIECE OF CAKE A dessert bar can help with social distancing at weddings.

Niche Editor Shannon Serpette

PANDEMIC BRIDES Planning a wedding in the middle of a raging pandemic takes the stress to a whole new level.

sserpette@shawmedia.com

PANDEMIC ADVICE Get some words of wisdom from brides who were married in 2020.

jmsmith@shawmedia.com

Advertising Director Jeanette Smith

PUTTING YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD Airbrush makeup is going mainstream for weddings.

Writers Becky Kramer Shannon Serpette Tara Traughber

WEDDING PLANNING CHECKLIST Christie Pasieka of Event Pros Boutique in Peru created a checklist that includes pandemic tips.

Photographers Shannon Serpette Designer Liz Klein

On the cover: Matthew and Erin Tomsha of Oglesby were married on Oct. 24, 2020, at Ironwood on the Vermilion Rural Event Center in LaSalle. They enjoyed the gorgeous photo backgrounds their photographer was able to work with on location.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA MATA PHOTOGRAPHY

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Illinois Valley’s popular outdoor wedding venues Story by Becky Kramer

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ouples getting married in 2021 will likely still have to be mindful of the coronavirus pandemic for months to come. Those who don’t want to wait to say “I do” may decide to opt for an outdoor wedding to protect their health and focus on their guests’ well-being.

Luckily for brides and grooms, the Illinois Valley has many gorgeous and readily available outdoor spaces for weddings and receptions. Each one of the spots on this list offers something unique. Before getting too far in your planning, though, consult the location you’re considering to ensure they are still open for business through all the changing COVID-19 restrictions.

THE BARN AT HORNBAKER GARDENS The Barn is located in the countryside just south of Princeton on the grounds of Hornbaker Gardens. The beautiful nursery provides an outstanding background for an outdoor wedding ceremony, and there are many areas to take additional photographs.

The reception venue, The Barn, is rustic on the outside and elegant on the inside with an outside patio.

“I could list a thousand things I love about Hornbaker’s… the beauty of the property that surrounds me daily for weddings large and small, along with the willingness of our staff to make sure your day is exceptional, gives me all the feels,” Barn manager and event coordinator Lindsay Funderberg said.

THE CIDER MILL AT 100 ACRE ORCHARD The Cider Mill is located west of Princeton off Route 6 on the former 100 Acre Orchard site. The outdoor wedding venue is just steps from the banquet hall down a brick path. The wooded area behind the venue provides a beautiful backdrop for the ceremony and photographs. The banquet facility can accommodate 400 guests in the rustic setting.

Matthew and Erin Tomsha of Oglesby opted to have their wedding at Ironwood on the Vermilion Rural Event Center in LaSalle. The venue resulted in some stunning wedding pictures and the ability to socially distance for their guests’ safety.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/ MELISSA MATA PHOTOGRAPHY

See VENUES, Page 4

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Venues FROM PAGE 3

“Couples have the opportunity to celebrate their wedding and reception at the same venue, making the day more enjoyable for the guests and the couple,” owner Annette Davis said.

HARMON LAKE Harmon Lake is a 13-acre private lake located west of Tiskilwa. This quiet, peaceful area is a prime location for an outside wedding venue. There are a pavilion and bathrooms on-site, plus many different areas to choose from for the ceremony.

“Our venue is private, relaxed, and so beautiful,” owner Nancy Johnston said.

CHAPEL HILL GOLF COURSE AND EVENT CENTER Chapel Hill in Princeton has several different locations available for an outdoor ceremony, including under the three oaks on Fairway 10, on the patio outside of the Wine Cellar, or in the Wedding Chapel that holds 108 guests.

The clubhouse building and wooded area provide an excellent backdrop for an outdoor location.

The stately clubhouse can accommodate more than 300 guests for the reception. Overnight accommodations for up to nine guests are available in the on-site bed and breakfast.

“Our grounds provide countless settings allowing you, your bridal party, and your photographer to capture dozens of breathtaking and beautiful scenes ensuring you special moments that last for eternity,” owner Dave Husemann said.

IRONWOOD ON THE VERMILION WEDDING AND EVENT CENTER Ironwood is north of LaSalle and to the east of the Little Vermillion River. The spacious grounds can be used to hold wedding ceremonies, have unique photo opportunities, play games, or just sit by the wood-burning fire pit located on the raised courtyard adjoining the pavilion.

“The main facility can hold up to 90 guests and is perfect for small weddings, bridal/

baby showers, birthday, anniversary, holiday parties, corporate events,” owner Julie Schmidt said. “The new pavilion seats up to 200 guests.

When inclement weather occurs, we roll down the nine glass doors, and the festivities continue.”

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK Starved Rock State Park, located off I-80 and south of Utica, offers several excellent locations such as The Sunrise Shelter or The Courtyard for an outdoor wedding ceremony surrounded by picturesque views and trees. The Great Hall and Starved Rock Room can seat up to 200 guests for the reception at the same venue.

“We are a destination location, so everything takes place on-site whether it’s a trolley rental, overnight accommodations, dining, or anything else you need,” director of sales Jenny Roulston said.

BRICKS AND STONES AT CAMP ARAMONI Camp Aramoni is a new, luxury campground located on the former site of the Ristocrat Brickyard near Tonica and close to Starved Rock State Park. The historical area, surrounded by 96 acres of forest and wildlife terrain along the Vermilion River, provides a unique outdoor wedding setting.

Camp Aramoni’s event space, Bricks and Stones, was formerly the brickyard’s blacksmith shop during the 1800s and now serves as a venue for wedding receptions, corporate retreats, and other large functions.

“With each tent accommodating two to six for overnight stays and a total occupancy of 56, Camp Aramoni is ideal for private couples’ getaways while expansive enough for full wedding buyouts,” event manager Stephanie Bias said.

“Full buyouts reduce travel times for guests and allows couples to turn their weddings into weekend-long celebrations with the people who mean most to them.”

THE EASTWOOD GOLF CLUB Located on the northeast side of Streator, the Eastwood Golf Club provides an outdoor location to have a wedding ceremony. The golf

course greens and trees provide a backdrop for the ceremony and photos.

The Eastwood Building can seat 200 guests for an inside reception, and the large four-season, octagon tent can seat 475 guests with a dance floor or 500 guests without a dance floor.

MENDOTA CIVIC CENTER The Mendota Civic Center is located on the northside of beautiful Lake Mendota. The venue is accented with trees, a wedding pergola, and a landscaped patio overlooking Lake Mendota. The Grand Ballroom will accommodate up to 400 guests for the reception.

SENICA’S OAK RIDGE GOLF COURSE Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Course is located east of LaSalle. A large outdoor patio just off the banquet hall provides a view of the golf course and is a good location for an outside ceremony.

Outdoor ceremonies can also be held in other grassy locations near one of the lakes or under some of the oak trees. Senica’s Oak Ridge banquet facility can accommodate up to 400 guests.

Grand Bear Resort Located just south of Utica and close to both Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, Grand Bear Resort is another option for an outdoor wedding ceremony. The outdoor pavilion or canyon deck are both romantic choices for the ceremony location.

The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests with a dance floor.

Smaller rooms are available for more intimate receptions.

PITSTICK PAVILION Pitstick Pavilion is located three miles north of Ottawa on Rt. 23 in a park-like setting. The outdoor ceremony can take place on the sandy beach next to the lake or on the wooden patio overlooking the lake. The reception then can take place in one of the three event rooms located on-site.

“We have 15 acres of oak trees that the couple can use for the backdrop of their perfect ceremony,” owner and manager Ed Pitstick said.

“One area has a cement patio

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for the couple to use as well amongst the trees. It’s a great location because we are easy to get to from Ottawa and I-80.”

DEER PARK GOLF CLUB Located north of Oglesby and close to Matthiessen State Park, Deer Park Golf Club has outdoor wedding venue options as well. Hole 11 overlooking the water is a gorgeous place for both the ceremony and reception and taking pictures of the special day. The Deer Park banquet facility can accommodate 120 guests inside, but tent rental is also available for up to 250 guests.

CEDAR CREEK RANCH Located just outside of Cedar Point, Cedar Creek Ranch offers a setting for a rustic outdoor wedding ceremony. It is picturesque with the winding creeks and rolling hills along with the natural beauty of the trees.

The sheltered event area, which has open-air capability, can be used for the ceremony or reception. There are animals available for photographs and even for the ceremony.

“If you want a country-style wedding, we are your place,” owner Paul Williams said.

HEGELER CARUS MANSION Located on the west side of LaSalle near the Little Vermilion River, the Hegeler Carus Mansion grounds provide a lovely location for an outdoor ceremony and reception.

“Visitors today experience the charm of a bygone era and the heritage of a fascinating family whose history is woven in tightly with that of the Illinois Valley and the United States, as well as internationally,” executive director Cindy Waddick said.

“The Mansion was given National Historic Landmark status in 2007. Your wedding will be unique on the grounds of this Victorian Era home.”

Sarah Mann of Ladd, who was married at the mansion in 2020, enjoyed her experience with the mansion’s staff.

“The Hegeler Carus Mansion staff was nothing short of accommodating. They made sure our guests were comfortable, yet safe in their outdoor

circles for seating,” Mann said.

THE OTTAWA BOAT CLUB The Ottawa Boat Club is a historic landmark located in downtown Ottawa near the Illinois and Fox Rivers. The outdoor area provides a scenic backdrop for ceremonies.

The banquet rooms provide a unique and elegant space for all types of events, including weddings, small and large parties, benefits, and more.

available. Want to do your ceremony and include your horses? The horse arena has bleacher seating for your guests.”

THE BUREAU COUNTY METRO CENTER Located on the west side of Princeton, the Bureau County Metro Center is another option for an outdoor ceremony.

The ceremony can take place at the Metro Center lake, in front of the tall nearby trees, or even at one of the parks in Princeton. The reception would then take place at the Metro Center’s Shoemake Event Center with a caterer of your choice.”

“The venue is just steps away from several locations that would be perfect for an outdoor wedding,” Tammy Lange, park district executive director, said.

REDDICK MANSION Reddick Mansion is located in the Washington Square Historic District in downtown Ottawa. The beautiful, ornate mansion is full of history and pre-Civil War architecture.

On the elegant grounds with award-winning gardens is a spacious pergola that can be used for an outdoor wedding ceremony and reception.

The mansion also has several spaces inside available for rent LAKE THUNDERBIRD Lake Thunderbird is a if needed. private community nestled in rural Putnam in Putnam JENNIFER’S GARDEN County. The association alJennifer’s Garden, located lows non-members to rent in Morris, provides an outdoor ceremony amongst flow- their clubhouse for larger events, granting the couple ers and a gazebo. The garden access to the areas that can also provides an excellent backdrop for all your wedding be used for an outdoor ceremony. pictures. Outside ceremonies The outdoor wedding cercan accommodate 240 seated emony can take place on the guests. dam in the pavilion overlook“Jennifer’s Garden outside ing the picturesque lake or ceremonies can hold up to in the pavilion near the club240 seated guests, and the house staff does all your setup house. The backup plan alwith the wedding coordinator lows the couple to get married upstairs in the clubhouse in focusing on you for your specase of inclement weather. cial day,” event coordinator The Lake Thunderbird Deb Howard said.

Clubhouse accommodates BUREAU COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 140 guests comfortably with a dance floor. Guests are The Bureau County Fairallowed to choose their own grounds, located on the west caterer. edge of Princeton, has sev“It is an absolutely beautiful eral areas available to host a and tranquil location for your gorgeous outdoor wedding. ceremony and reception,” asFacilities are available for the reception, too, using a caterer sistant administrator Wendy Flynn said. or your choice.

“The Bureau County BOGGIO’S ORCHARD Fairgrounds is a reasonably Located just west of Granpriced location for a casual ville, Boggio’s Orchard prooutdoor wedding. You can vides another spot for an hold your ceremony under outdoor wedding ceremony. the large shade trees in the center of the grounds,” execu- The couple can get married among the orchard trees and tive secretary/event manager with plenty of space for guests Kathy Bauer said. “There is as well. The on-site tent replenty of room to help your ception can be either informal guests be socially distanced. or formal, depending on your There is plenty of parking, preferences. restrooms, and lots of chairs 5

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A piece of cake

A dessert bar can help with social distancing at weddings

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By Shannon Serpette

Nicole Burke of Sublette was fortunate to get married in June of 2019, before the pandemic disrupted wedding plans across the country.

For dessert options at her wedding, she turned to Christy’s Kitchen in Peru.

Although she opted for a three-tier, traditional wedding cake to serve her approximately 220 guests, she also went with a more recent trend and had a dessert bar set up at her wedding.

“She really let us customize whatever we wanted,” Burke said.

The dessert bar proved to be more popular with guests than the wedding cake station was.

“It was gone within seconds,” Burke said. “The dessert bar definitely went faster.”

It was emptied so quickly there was nothing left for Burke to have by the time she stopped by the dessert bar to snag one of the tasty treats.

The dessert bar was so popular because all of the options it offered, from cupcakes to mousse shots to parfaits.

“There is more of a variety rather than just cake,” Burke said.

The dessert bar was such a big hit that Burke called upon Christy’s Kitchen again recently for a drive-by baby shower for the child she expects in 2021.

Dessert bars continue to gain traction at taking a slice out of the traditional wedding cake’s popularity at receptions. Joyce O’Hare, the owner of Tiers of Joy in LaSalle, said she noticed an increasing number of requests for sweets tables at weddings before the COVID-19 outbreak.

“I think there are a lot of people who don’t care for PHOTO BY SHANNON SERPETTE cakes,” O’Hare said.

Michelle Olson, the owner of Christy’s Kitchen in Peru, said brides are mostly opting for one- or two-tier At the dessert tables she cakes right now because of the smaller weddings they’re having during the COVID-19 pandemic. But, she See CAKE, Page 9 said, many brides are also opting for dessert bars featuring single-serve items and a vast variety of treats.

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Dessert Bar Superstars Want a single-serve solution for your scaled-down wedding instead of a giant wedding cake? Popular dessert table options for weddings include: • Peanut butter bars • Brownies • Lemon bar • Mini cheesecake • Mousse cups • Caramel apple crumb bar • Cake pop • Chocolate covered strawberries • Parfait cups • Mini bars • Mini pies

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Cake

FROM PAGE 7

bakes for, popular items include bite-size bars, mini cupcakes, mini cheesecakes, and mini pies.

With the pandemic, the dessert bar is possibly poised to take an even bigger bite out of the market for big, multi-tier wedding cakes. The lure of individually packaged desserts might appeal to couples who are getting married in the heart of the pandemic.

Part of the reason more people are considering or implementing dessert bars is the size of the weddings that took place in 2020.

As might be expected, this year some weddings have been postponed and big receptions are being canceled in favor of smaller affairs, Michelle Olson, the owner of Christy’s Kitchen in Peru, said.

“Our weddings are down,” Olson said. “A lot of brides

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Many dessert bars include the old standby of cupcakes. Cupcakes can be made in any flavor that wedding cakes can be, and they can be a safer alternative during the pandemic because they eliminate the step of See CAKE, Page 10 someone cutting and serving the cake.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Above and left: Nicole Burke of Sublette, who was married pre-pandemic, went with this trendy dessert bar at her wedding in addition to the three-tier wedding cake she had available for her guests.

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Cake

FROM PAGE 9

are choosing to do things at their house. I feel for the brides.”

Desserts look a bit different for those who are still getting married despite the ongoing pandemic.

“They are still doing their cake,” Olson said, but added they are typically only one or two tiers instead of the gigantic creations wedding guests are used to seeing.

Brides are also opting for single-serve desserts like cupcakes, which make a great canvas for some amazing-looking, ready-to-package treats.

Christy’s Kitchen can do full dessert tables, which they set up at the reception or wedding so the bride doesn’t have to do anything. For

smaller weddings, that can be a great alternative to a huge cake that has to be cut and served by someone. These smaller, single-serve desserts can minimize how much contact another guest has with someone else’s dessert.

Not having someone standing there, cutting the cake as people come to grab a slice can also help keep six feet between guests.

Olson said that every dessert table Christy’s Kitchen constructs is fully customizable.

For those who want a traditional wedding cake at their reception, the most popular flavor in 2020 that Christy’s offers is still white cake with strawberry or raspberry filling. But with hundreds of combinations to choose from, it shouldn’t be difficult for a bride to say “I do” to a cupcake, cake, or dessert flavor they love.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Dessert bars have become super popular at weddings because they give attendees a wide variety of flavors and textures.

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Before You Walk Down the Aisle, Get Your Skin Camera Ready Even now in the time of smaller gatherings, a wedding is a time to look your absolute best. Whether you are the bride, the groom or in the w e d d i n g p a r t y, your appearance is likely of utmost importance. The photographer and videographer will be recording how you look for posterity and all eyes will be on you that day.

When getting ready for a special event, consider adding a consultation at a medical spa to your plans. Medical Spas offer non-surgical cosmetic medical procedures to not only make you appear younger, but also the best version of yourself. We asked Dr. Nicole Norris of Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa in Peru, Illinois to answer some of our questions about how a medical spa can help men and women look amazing for special events.

When do you recommend that patients come in before a special event to devise a plan for their rejuvenation? It really depends on their age, budget, and goals. We prefer to have initial consultations at least six months prior to a special event, such as wedding. With only three months of preparation time, we may be limited in the results we can achieve, but we can still, for example, treat expression lines with Botox, use filler to treat lines and wrinkles, and get the skin glowing with Hydrafacial™. For younger wedding party members who already have good skin, a week’s notice is enough to get them on the schedule for a brightening facial with dermaplaning and maybe even in-office teeth whitening.

What are the most common pre-wedding procedures? For my patients prepping to be camera ready, I recommend Botox prior to special events because it helps reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles when you are smiling and making expressions. At most special events you are socializing and having pictures taken and the area around the eyes is the focus of attention. Botox should be done a minimum of two weeks prior to your special event and will last an average of 3-4 months.

Every patient preparing for a special event at our medical spa, plans a facial with dermaplaning or Hydrafacial™ with dermaplaning within a week before their event. Professional make-up application always looks better after dermaplaning which is an exfoliating procedure that reduces the vellus hair on the face for a short-term.

We also offer non-surgical body contouring treatments, Warmsculpting, and skin tightening treatments that many patients take advantage of when preparing for a big event.

What do you think is the most important thing to focus on in terms of appearance before an event? I believe your skin is the most important aspect of appearance at any age. And I believe it is just as important for the men in the wedding party, to have great skin, as the women. Depending on their skin concerns, we often treat wedding party participants with a series of facials, chemical peels, microneedling, lasers, or Hydrafacials™ prior to their big day to give them the best skin of their life.

Depending on what female bridal party members are wearing to the event, the skin of the face may not be their only concern. Many special events lend themselves to formal dresses that also expose the skin of the decollete’, shoulders, or back. My new favorite procedure to rejuvenate the skin of the face, neck, and decollete’ prior to a special event, is a series of topical Biorevitalizing treatments. This is a fabulous treatment developed in Italy and recently brought to the United States which makes any skin-type tight, plump and radiant.

The treatment has similarities to a chemical peel, but there is no pain, peeling or downtime. These Biorevitalizing skin treatments are ideally done in a series of 3-5 treatments weekly or bi-weekly prior to the event. This is ideal for aging skin or hyperpigmented skin but promotes attractive skin at any age.

What is your favorite event treatment to do before a wedding?

My favorite prewedding treatment is a series of treatments! Getting a great result in my office is a little like going to the gym.

One workout is not going to change much. I love to do a consultation at least four to six months prior to a special event and lay out a plan. We love getting to know wedding party members and hearing about their plans and getting to know their families.

We always have them send us pictures of the final product on the big day which is extremely rewarding!

Call Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa in Peru, IL for your preevent consult with Dr. Norris to start on your path to looking fabulous for your special event. If you come in for your Pre-Event consultation in February 2021, your $99 consultation fee will go towards your pre-event procedure! Call 815-780-8264, follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or message us from NicoleNorrisMD. com to learn more.

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Pandemic brides getting used to dealing with setbacks

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Getting married is never easy, but planning a wedding in the middle of a raging pandemic takes the stress to a whole new level. Brides have gotten used to dealing with emergencies and changing plans in the past year.

Erin (Lopatic) Tomsha of

By Shannon Serpette Oglesby had a last-minute curve ball thrown at her two days before her Oct. 24, 2020, wedding to Matthew Tomsha was scheduled to take place.

“I had received an email from the judge that was supposed to be marrying us,” she said.

In the email, the judge ex-

plained he had been exposed to coronavirus and had to quarantine for everyone’s safety.

“The judge was going for a test but wouldn’t have his results back in time. The judge was trying to find someone to take his place but didn’t have any luck,” Erin said.

Abigail Nieslawski and Cody Behrens of Heyworth had their wedding all planned out when they had to scrap the whole thing.

The couple ended up re-planning their wedding and getting married at Abigail’s grandparents’ farm in rural Hennepin.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/PORTRAITS BY ANTHONY

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Fortunately, the whole crisis was averted, thanks to a stand-in who was going to be at the wedding anyway.

“Luckily, my cousin who was attending the wedding was still ordained and she ended up marrying us. If it wasn’t for her, I don’t know who would have ended up marrying us,” she said.

While Erin had been watching the pandemic closely because of her upcoming nuptials, she hadn’t been as worried about it as some other people had been.

“I was never really scared of having our wedding during COVID until two weeks before when the COVID cases were on the rise again,” she said.

When COVID started ramping up in March, Erin noticed that people were postponing their weddings and wondered whether she should do the same.

“But the more I thought about it, October was seven months away, and we couldn’t predict what COVID would be like at that time,” she said.

“We did make a back-up plan just in case we did have to

postpone our wedding.”

“Our back-up plan was we would still get married on October 24 with just our wedding party and family present,” she said. “Then next year, October 2021, have a reception with all of our guests to celebrate one year of marriage.”

Fortunately, that back-up plan wasn’t necessary. And in some respects, the couple had an easier time planning their wedding simply because it was an outdoor wedding, taking place at the Ironwood on the Vermilion Rural Event Center in LaSalle.

“Our wedding was already being an outdoor wedding, plus our venue was an indoor/ outdoor venue where there was plenty of space to social distance,” she said.

That alleviated some concerns for their guests’ safety and prevented the couple from having to do a last-minute venue change like some couples have had to do. But, even with the outdoor wedding, COVID-19 still weighed heavily on their minds in the days leading up to the ceremony.

They were concerned with

what the area’s COVID activity would be like – they weren’t sure whether it would be on the rise or slowing down.

When the invitations were sent out, COVID activity had been slowing. But even so, an emphasis was placed on being safe and considerate of others.

“I did make sure all guests had brought masks with them to be safe. We made sure masks were worn going through the food line when everyone couldn’t be six feet apart,” Erin said. “Some of the guests wore their masks that entire night, even dancing, and some didn’t. I just left that part up to our guest and what made them feel comfortable.”

COVID played a factor in how many people attended the wedding and how long they stuck around.

“We had about 50 people send their regrets. Some of our guests that RSVPed yes, just attended the ceremony and then ending up leaving afterwards,” she said.

While everything came together in the end, Erin will See PANDEMIC, Page 14

Cody and Abigail Behrens said they couldn’t have pulled off revamping their entire wedding without help from their families.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/PORTRAITS BY ANTHONY

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Evan Taylor and Ellie Boomsma of Cedar Point will be getting married on June 19, 2021, at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton. She said she has truly appreciated how flexible and understanding the wedding companies and vendors have been as she plans her nuptials during this uncertain time.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/TAYLOR ROSS OF GRACEFULLY MADE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Pandemic FROM PAGE 13

always remember the strain of planning a wedding during a pandemic.

“It was a stressful experience for sure, especially when it became the wedding month and cases were on the rise again,” she said.

“We dream about the moment ever since we are little, with planning our dream wedding. It is supposed to be this fun, enjoyable experience, but I never felt like it was a fun, enjoyable experience because COVID was always on the minds of everyone,” Erin said.

Like Erin, Abigail (Nieslawski) Behrens felt overwhelmed while trying to plan her wedding to Cody Behrens with all the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus outbreak. To help get through it, the couple turned to family when all their wedding plans fell through because of the pandemic.

“We had our whole wedding planned all the way to the final finishes,” Abigail, a former Hennepin resident who now lives in Heyworth, said. “We also had just ordered our invitations and were getting so excited to mail them out.”

But when the coronavirus threw a wrench into their plans, the couple revamped everything, coming up with a whole new wedding, thanks to help from their family. Instead of getting married at Henrekin Pines in Deer Grove, the couple said their vows at Abigail’s grandparents’ farm, Passini Farms, in rural Hennepin on Aug. 22, 2020.

“We changed our venue, all our décor, the food, the guest list. Literally, nothing was the same with only a few months to spare and with no idea where COVID was going,” Abigail said. “Our families came together in

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/MELISSA MATA PHOTOGRAPHY

Although it wasn’t easy, Matthew and Erin Tomsha continued to roll with the constant changes while planning a wedding during the pandemic. ways we could have never imagined to still give us the most special day.”

The guest list was whittled down from 250 to 50 people, but the couple hopes to have a reception with their full guest list in August 2021. Even with the smaller guest list, it was challenging to arrange everything and cope with health setbacks that affected the wedding party.

“The day before the wedding, I found out that my maid of honor tested positive

for COVID. I had two bridesmaids with COVID and one from out of state who could not travel,” Abigail said.

Both Cody’s and Abigail’s families helped pitch in to make the day happen.

“Our families came together to cater the food, and my aunt so graciously gifted us our original wedding cake.

My grandma pulled strings to book me with her local hair lady,” Abigail said.

See PANDEMIC, Page 17

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Jordan and Mia (Uranich) Halberg of Oglesby faced many challenges while planning for their wedding on Dec. 5, 2020. Mia said all the help she received from friends and family was the key to a successful wedding.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED/ KENDRA POOLE AT KP PHOTOGRAPHY

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Pandemic FROM PAGE 15

Even with all the familial support, Abigail said all the stress was overwhelming.

“I cried probably every day,” she said. “We had to sacrifice a lot and be okay with the experience we were going to get. It was very difficult for us to cope with.”

Abigail particularly leaned on her mother for support throughout the whole ordeal.

“My mom carried all my emotions, and I’m so grateful for her,” she said.

Evan Taylor and Ellie Boomsma of Cedar Point are currently facing many challenges while trying to plan their wedding scheduled for June 19, 2021, at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton.

“With the shutdown occurring in March, I had to resort to looking up companies

and vendors strictly online.

I wasn’t able to meet with some of them before booking, such as my videographer,” Boomsma said.

“Some companies book up fast in advance, so I knew I had to book as soon as possible, even without knowing what the future would hold,” she said. “I also had to push back my bridal dress appointment four times before I was finally able to try on wedding gowns.”

Boomsma isn’t certain if there will be COVID restrictions in place by the time she walks down the aisle, so she’s created two guest lists – one short and one long. They’ll go with the longer list if able, but want to be prepared in case the crowd size has to be smaller.

Since she still has a few months before the big day, she said things have only been “minimally stressful” so far.

If the pandemic continues to cause couples to change their plans, it may help them

Make your first home together a special one

to seek out some words of wisdom from those who have more life experiences and their best interests at heart.

Mia Uranich and Jordan Halberg of Oglesby faced stress and obstacles as they tried to plan their Dec. 5, 2020, wedding. They got through it by relying on family and trying to take their advice.

“Although it was stressful, without our family and friends, our wedding would not have been able to happen,” Mia said. “The entire planning process, my mother-in-law believed and had faith that we would have a beautiful wedding. She was absolutely right.”

And though the wedding may not have been what Mia had initially thought it would be, she was thrilled with how it turned out.

“It ended up being the perfect day, with such an intimate celebration with our family and friends,” Mia said.

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Advice for pandemic-time brides Get some words of wisdom from brides who were married in 2020

By Shannon Serpette Brides-to-be are typically inundated with advice from women who have been where they are right now. We asked women who were married during the pandemic to offer their hard-earned wisdom to brides who are planning a wedding during this difficult time. We also asked for comments from brides who are currently planning their wedding for 2021.

Here is the advice they offered to other brides planning a pandemic-time wedding.

Sarah Mann of Ladd: Stephanie Reeder of Mendota: “It’s not easy. Keep it simple. Remember the reason for “Try to remain flexible and open to new ideas. Even if getting married. In the end, it’s you and your spouse. every detail doesn’t turn out as you originally planned, Family and friends will always understand. It will be your wedding day will still be beautiful. At the end of memorable, regardless.” the day, you’ll be married to the love of your life, and that’s what matters most.”

Erin Tomsha of Oglesby: “You’re not in this alone. Times can be stressful, but just try and enjoy the moment the best you can. Just keep thinking about the outcome – you marrying the love of your life. LOVE > COVID.”

Mia Halberg of Oglesby: “My only advice is to remember that the wedding is about the marriage. We both knew we wanted to get married and that was our goal throughout the entire process.”

Ellie Boomsma of Cedar Point: “I would say follow your gut. Right now, my fiancé and I both agree that no matter what happens with the pandemic next June, we will still get married. Whether it is 20 people or 200, we are tying the knot. I know of many brides postponing or changing their plans this year and next year. I would do what is best for you and your fiancé.”

Abigail Behrens, formerly of Hennepin, currently residing in Heyworth: “Remember why you are getting married. Your wedding may be different than ‘typical’ weddings, but the most important thing is walking away with the person you love. The chairs, centerpieces, floral, hair, and makeup do not matter. Our small, intimate wedding was so much more than the big day we originally planned. We had so many compliments about our special day, including ‘This is how all weddings should be, your day was beautiful.’ We would not trade our small wedding for the world and are blessed we were given this challenge to experience together.”

Brennan and Stephanie (King) Reeder of Mendota were married Oct. 17, 2020, when the pandemic was spiking in the Illinois Valley.

They had to make numerous adjustments to their plans to be able to continue with their wedding. The couple relied upon a number of beautiful outdoor locations to come up with socially-distanced and gorgeous wedding pictures.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/SHANA RAE MAY PHOTOGRAPHY

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Putting your best face forward Airbrush makeup is going mainstream for weddings

O

By Tara Traughber

Once solely used as a tool of the rich and famous, airbrush makeup is no longer only for the elite. It’s now something that’s widely accessible for all brides and their wedding party. Fans of airbrushing say it can create long-lasting coverage that has a natural and lightweight feel.

Kendra Pagoria, a licensed esthetician and makeup artist living in Spring Valley, is one of the local professionals who offer airbrush makeup services for special occasions. Pagoria graduated from Bradley University with a degree in radio and television broadcasting and pursued a career in Los Angeles for a while.

“I found myself always more interested in the makeup department of the shows I worked on,” she said.

That prompted her to move back to Illinois and return to school. Pagoria now has 11 years of experience, including seven years of working in a medical spa.

The transition to makeup artist took place when, Pagoria said, “I started casually doing wedding makeup and, after about a year, I realized I could really stay busy doing something I loved.”

Those who have never had their makeup airbrushed may be unfamiliar with the difference between this type of application and the more traditional style of putting on cosmetics.

“Airbrush is an ultra-fine concentrated mist that absorbs directly into the skin, so it doesn’t merely sit on top of it, giving it longer durability,” Pagoria said.

The makeup is water-resistant and lasts longer because it contains a silicon base.

That can be a huge plus for brides who are getting married during the sometimes brutal Illinois humidity. It can also help guard against other sources of moisture, such as

SUBMITTED PHOTO/KENDRA PAGORIA

Spring Valley airbrush makeup artist Kendra Pagoria uses herself as a model to show off what airbrushed makeup looks like on the face. the sweating caused by dancing or when the inevitable tears start to flow.

“I have had so many bridal parties send me pictures at 10 to 11 p.m. and they are amazed at how well their makeup still looks after all the sweating and dancing,” Pagoria said.

Another benefit of airbrushed makeup being absorbed into your skin is that the makeup will not transfer.

“So, it will withstand all the hugging you will inevitably be doing on your wedding day,” Pagoria said.

A common concern for those new to this style of makeup is whether it will look orange and have a cakey look.

That concern has no foundation, according to Pagoria, who says airbrush makeup

gives a light and natural-looking coverage.

“Airbrush makeup feels lightweight and clean, yet gives amazing coverage. Airbrush colors are very buildable and forgiving. It is easy to mix colors for the perfect match but rarely do I even have to do that,” she said.

Lauren Uhlenhopp of Ottawa, whose maiden name was Kunkel before her recent wedding, hates cakey makeup looks and was nervous at the prospect of having someone else do her wedding day makeup.

“Kendra did a perfect job.

I didn’t have to worry about my makeup all day. It felt light and natural while providing great coverage,” Uhlenhopp said. “Kendra was really sweet, and I was very happy

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with the results.”

Another misconception Pagoria hears is that airbrush makeup will not work on all skin types. Pagoria said it can work with any type of skin.

She will adjust primers to accommodate the different skin types. The right primer and finishing powder are enough to combat excess oil.

“It glides onto the skin and covers imperfections all while giving you a healthy, beautiful glow. It is always my goal to have a bride still look like herself after I do her makeup, just an enhanced version of herself,” Pagoria said.

Airbrushed makeup doesn’t take long to do, making it a great option for hectic wedding days. Pagoria can finish a full face of makeup and lashes in 30 minutes or less when using the airbrush method.

She said most women prefer to use fake lashes for their wedding day to enhance their eyes.

“They are strikingly beautiful in pictures yet can still appear natural. They can take a beautiful makeup application to the next level. I always recommend the bride wear lashes, even if she has long lashes to begin with. The added thickness to them will still wow the crowd,” Pagoria said. “Fake lashes add that extra bit of glam.”

Pagoria said she loves doing airbrush makeup for weddings.

“It’s a happy and exciting day, and I love being in the atmosphere with all

SUBMITTED PHOTO/LEAH KUHN

Lauren Uhlenhopp of Ottawa and her mom, Beth Kunkel, both had Kendra Pagoria of Spring Valley airbrush their makeup for Lauren’s recent wedding. Kunkel also had Pagoria do lash extensions for the occasion.

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Wedding Planning Checklist Christie Pasieka of Event Pros Boutique in Peru created a checklist that includes pandemic tips Intro by Shannon Serpette Checklist contributed by Christie Pasieka of Event Pros Boutique

B

rides and grooms are always under a lot of stress as they plan their upcoming nuptials and reception. With COVID-19 as a potential unwanted wedding guest, planning is more difficult than ever.

But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done, according to Christie Pasieka from Event Pros Boutique in Peru.

“Planning is a little more challenging right now, but this list will get you started with safe planning practices,” she said.

The key is to nail down what type of wedding you want and decide if it will be feasible with the current pandemic conditions. You might find yourself revising your initial wish list to protect the safety of your guests.

“To keep risks low, consider an open-air ceremony and venue, a private ceremony and a reception at a later time, or an intimate wedding with two to 50 guests,” Pasieka said.

And, of course, put cute reminders out about using hand sanitizers and masks, she said.

INITIAL PLANNING m Decide on a target wedding budget, and who will pay for what. m Decide how many guests you’ll invite. m Check out online venues that offer virtual tours. Make a list of questions, including the available dates, the services included, and the cancellation policies. m Decide upon who will be in your bridal party. m Start a website or private Facebook page to distribute information and updates. m Register for gifts online. m Share your color palettes to the bridal party and start online shopping. m Book appointments for bridal attire shopping. m Research photographers and videographers, a band or DJ for entertainment, and a wedding planner. m Check out Pinterest for wedding ideas and start your own boards.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/MELISSA MATA PHOTOGRAPHY

11 MONTHS FROM THE WEDDING m Book the venue and ceremony locations. m Book the photographers and videographer. m Book the DJ or band. m Have your bridal attire ordered.

photo session. m Research caterers and look for one that offers a carry-out selection. m Design and order your save-thedate cards. m Decide on the ceremony and book your officiant.

10 MONTHS UNTIL THE WEDDING m Schedule your save-the-date

9 MONTHS UNTIL THE WEDDING m Send out the save-the-date cards.

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m Research guest accommodations. m Sort and pack the wedding decor, and plan who will do set-up and take-down.

m Start design of invitations. m Make an appointment with a florist. m Go over the music playlist with the DJ. m Schedule a wedding cake appointment.

3 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING m Purchase gifts for the bridal party. m Do a trial of hair and makeup. m Send invitations. m Finalize the music for the ceremony, reception entrance, and first dance.

8 MONTHS UNTIL THE WEDDING m Book a florist. m Book a cake. m Research hair and makeup. m Plan a few small wedding showers rather than a large one for safety.

Alternatively, you can plan a drive-by wedding shower.

2 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING m Have the final gown fitting. m Order extra masks, hand sanitizer, and signs for both. m Finalize your music list. m Finalize the photos to be taken.

7 MONTHS UNTIL THE WEDDING m Finalize your guest list. m Order wedding rings. m Work on your wedding vows. m Book hair and makeup. m Start honeymoon planning — take advantage of special rates for after COVID-19.

4 TO 6 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING m Purchase all bridal party accessories. m Order the wedding favors.

1 MONTH BEFORE THE WEDDING m Collect gown and bridesmaid dresses. m Confirm guest count and RSVPs, and reach out to guests who haven’t responded yet. m Start a seating chart. m Confirm all vendors and their services.

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m Send your guest count to the venue. m Go over the head count and menu with the caterer. m Have your speeches and vows finalized. m Go over the checklist.

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2 TO 3 DAYS TO THE WEDDING m Collect suits. m Collect all rental items. m Do a final check with vendors. m Pack a wedding day emergency kit.

THE DAY BEFORE THE WEDDING m Sort out payments. m Get a manicure. m Set up your ceremony and venue site. m Go to rehearsal. m Relax!

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