SVM-MAG_07302015

Published by Sauk Valley Media

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PA I D

Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 P.O. Box 498 Sterling, IL 61081

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

2015-2016

I Do...

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There are many choices to be made when planning your wedding, but there is only

one Timber Creek

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The Perfect Venue For Weddings, Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners, & More

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Timber Creek Features A Rich History, Beautiful Landscapes & Premier Service

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Indoor & Outdoor Event Locations

CALL OUR U EVENT COORDINATORS O D O S FOR OR A PERSONAL RSO A TOUR O OF OUR FACILITY C Y! O R INCLUDE A COMPLIMENTARY FOOD O D TASTING S FOR O TWO PEOPLE O !

ALL TOURS

729 Timber Creek Rd. • Dixon • 815-288-5110

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YOU’RE INVITED ...

To enjoy this issue of Sauk Valley Media’s “I Do.”

ON OUR COVER: Jessica and Storm Pagel of Rockford, taken by Brett Paul Photography. You can visit his website at brettpaulphotography.com.

Publisher: Sam R Fisher Advertising Director: Jennifer Baratta Advertising Sales: Melissa Castillo Jill Reyna

INSIDE Couples are making lofty plans for their wedding: get- You can enjoy a honeymoon close to home, and closting in a barn. ........................................PAGE 6-11 er to nature .........................................PAGE 43-44 Brides are making sure they’re dressed for success With this drone, I thee wed: Business gives couples a when the walk down the aisle ...............PAGE 14-20 bird’s-eye view of their special day ........PAGE 45-46 Wedding cakes are more than just desserts; they’re Groom’s checklist .....................................PAGE 47 part of the decor, too ...........................PAGE 22-26 Travel agents can help send newlyweds on their The bride’s trousseau checklist .................PAGE 48 marry way ............................................PAGE 27-29

Wedding flowers checklist .........................PAGE 49

Something old, something new – and something you, Bride’s attendants checklist ......................PAGE 50 for a personalized wedding ...................PAGE 30-33 Groom’s attendants checklist ....................PAGE 51 These days, grooms are opting to tie the knot in less formal attire .......................................PAGE 34-36 Reception checklist ...................................PAGE 52 A wedding checklist..............................PAGE 37-38

Service providers checklist ........................PAGE 53

Make it a picture-perfect wedding..........PAGE 39-42

Budget checklist .......................................PAGE 54

Editors: Larry Lough Jeff Rogers Rusty Schrader Page Design: Rusty Schrader I Do is a specialty publication of Sauk Valley Media, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081, 815-625-3600.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this guide is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy.

Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services

The Difference Between A Special Occasion And An Unforgettable Occasion.

Oak Lane of Oregon 3261 S S. D Daysville ill Rd Rd. | O Oregon, IL 61061 Just 3 miles South of Oregon Jodi: 815-871-0948

ion inat rm b m A co stic cha ted a of ru phistic ace o s pl and nce, a dding a e eleg your w s will am re whe tion dre e. ru p rece come t

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Lofty plans Horses aren’t the only things getting hitched in a barn; the bride and groom are doing it, too

LONNIE MILLER Special to I Do

If you’re a farm gal or guy at heart, and you’re looking for somewhere to get married that’s more in tune with your rustic roots, there are at least four barn businesses in our area, each offering a different

look and their own amenities, but all offering a rural and romantic venue for your vows.

Oak Lane Oak Lane of Oregon is an 1800s-era dairy barn, located at 3261 Daysville Road in Oregon.

BARNS CONTINUED ON 7

Barnicopia in rural Polo is one of several barns in the area that can be rented for weddings.

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Happily Ever After Member FDIC

Congratulations newlyweds!

We wish you all the best as you begin your new life together. And remember, we’ll be here for you through all the milestones of marriage from your first house to retirement and every step in between.

451 N. Main Ave. Milledgeville, IL Ph: 815-225-7171 www.milledgevillebank.com

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Barns are full-service venues BARNS

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Very rustic in its appearance, the spacious venue offers grounds and a lane nicely appointed with romantic floral arrangements and photo-friendly outdoor decorations, including antiques.

This working farm also offers housing for the bridal couple.

There are dressing rooms, bathrooms, an air-conditioned banquet room and fully stocked bar on the ground level. The upper level can seat up to 300 guests in its reception hall, where there is another bar. The upper level is not air-conditioned or heated and is not handicapped accessible. Restrooms are on the ground level.

The venue provides bartenders, tables and chairs, vintage mismatched dishes and flatware, as well as a list of preferred vendors, such as photographers and caterers.

All food must be prepared in advance and catered in, but there is a caterer’s kitchen on site, where the food can be laid out in preparation for the wedding. No alcohol can be brought onto the premises, but the venue will special order your favorite adult beverages with notice ahead of time. Music may be enjoyed until midnight.

Oak Lane offers different venue packages. All options include cleaning of the reception halls after your event.

Barnicopia Barnicopia is located at 2570 NW Branch Road, north of Polo. It’s easy to find, just 6 miles west of Mount Morris on state Route 64, or 3 miles east of the intersection of state Routes 26 and 64. This barn – newly built and offering modern conveniences – offers space for 350 guests, ample parking and the whole barn is available for events.

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ACE IS THE PLACE for your

Wedding needs

Banquet Tables Round Tables Cocktail Tables Chairs Jump Stations Popcorn Machine Cotton Candy Machine Sno Cone Machine 5’Charcoal Grill

Call today for reservations!

Over 35 Years of Excellent Customer Service!

Celebrate your rustic wedding at Livengood’s Barn! Our caring staff, climate controlled barn and beautiful grounds will make it a night to remember!

Call today to schedule a visit: livengoodsbarn.com | 815-499-5934 21647 Thomson Road, Chadwick Find us on Facebook!

900 N. Galena Ave., Dixon 815-288-RENT www.acehardwaredixon.com Hours: Monday-Friday 7-7, Saturday & Sunday 8-5

The Perfect Wedding Venue!

From start to finish, Rock River will help take the worry out of your big day! Our on-site event coordinator will provide you with helpful and organized assistance in the planning process.

Free incentive couples’ golf passes are available to all weddings held at Rock River!

• Call Rock River For Any Event • Weddings • Business Meetings • Fundraisers •Conferences • Showers & More!

Rock River Weddings Rock River GAP 3901 Dixon Ave. Rock Falls, IL 815-625-2387 www.rrgap.com Rock River GAP weddings provide you with a beautiful setting, impeccable service & fantastic custom menus!

“Everything was so easy - I didn’t feel like just another client. Everyone has really high standards for how things should go and you could tell.”

-Elizabeth Aslan “We were so happy with everything.”

-Carrie Widolff “We were so relaxed knowing all the things that would be done for us that we could enjoy the day.”

-The Andermanns

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Inside or out, barns provide country couples a scenic and memorable location for their wedding

Courtesy of Oak Lane of Oregon

Some barns offer overnight stays BARNS

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Submitted by Jodi Flynn Photography

Marching down the aisle? Nope. How about sauntering down the hayloft instead?

Some couples opt for a more down-home setting for their wedding, like this hayloft at Livengood’s Barn.

Barnicopia boasts a collection of restored antique tractors, cars, farm equipment and other relics related to farm living. There is a chapel, dressing space, modern restrooms and the building is handicapped-accessible.

It is air-conditioned and heated.

All receptions include venue rental for the entire day (unless noted by Barnicopia), and includes a 1-night stay in a whirlpool suite for the bride and groom. The venue price includes tables and chairs for up to 200 guests indoors, and additional seating, or outdoor seating, can be rented. Clients hire their own caterers, D.J.s, and photographers. Clients can bring their own alcohol for guests if they provide proof of insurance, and the venue can provide bartender services by request.

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Photos by Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

ABOVE: K’s Korner offers a big place with some rustic space for couples wanting to rent a barn for their wedding. INSET: The 34-by-100 foot barn at K’s Korner, just outside of Sterling and Rock Falls, offers a unique place for your wedding.

Barns blend the rustic and the contemporary BARNS

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K’s Korners K’s Korners is located just outside Sterling and Rock Falls, at the intersection of U.S. Route 30 and Como Road.

The venue offers a huge former dairy barn built in the 1920s. It is still being renovated on the lower level (the Udder Room), but the upper level provides 3,500 square feet of space for weddings and receptions, with additional space on a new 12-foot-by-18 foot deck.

It is not handicapped accessible yet, but there are plans to make it such.

Restrooms and dressing rooms are on the ground level. The stairway to the loft is outside. The upper level is very rustic, with an arched ceiling that provides a cathedral-like atmosphere. It can provide seating for 300 guests.

Bar service is available or may be brought in to the facility. Clients may hire the photographer, D.J. or caterer of their choice. Clients must provide chair and table rentals, and banquet equipment.

More Info K’s Korners Contact: Marion Younger Address: 13030 Galt Road, Sterling Phone: 815-626-2988 Facebook: Search for “K’s Korners” Barnicopia Contact: Rachael or Lisa Address: 2570 NW BranchRoad, Polo Phone: 815-946-2500

Email: info@barnicopia. com Facebook: Search for “Barnicopia” Livengood’s Barn Contact: Kali Livengood Address: 21647 Thomson Road, Chadwick Phone: 815-499-5934 Email: livengoodseventbarn@gmail.com Website: www.liven-

Livengood’s Livengood’s Barn is a mid-century dairy barn, with a rustic loft inside, and a little more contemporary appearance outside, with newly constructed decks.

This barn sits on 20 rolling, scenic acres with a pond. There are dressing rooms and modern restrooms on both levels.

The building is air-conditioned and heated and can comfortably seat 160 guests. They have 1-day or 5-day rental options. The client provides caterers,

goodsbarn.com Facebook: Search for “Livengood’s Barn” Oak Lane of Oregon Contact: Jodi Horner Address: 3261 Daysville Road, Oregon Phone: 815-871-0948 Email: Oaklane2012@ gmail.com Facebook: Search for “OakLane of Oregon”

linens, dishes, a D.J. and photographer, but the venue offers a list of vendors.

The grounds, complete with pond, are available for a picnic, photos, and gatherings. Alcohol may be provided by the client with proof of insurance, or bar service is available through The Crystal Cork in Dixon.

The building is handicapped-accessible with a chairlift to the loft. There is a lot of space outdoors for tents or other activities.

Selmi’s Weddings and Events has moved to a new location in downtown Rock Falls! The new store front is at 223 1st Avenue. The bridal shop has many things to offer including invitations, fresh and silk flowers, wedding ceremony and reception decorations, wedding accessories, centerpiece rentals, wedding planning and coordination, and much, much more. Katy Selmi-Downs and her staff are very diversified and are able to tend to your every need on your special day. Relax and let the staff at Selmi’s take care of the details.

Katy Selmi-Downs has been doing weddings and events since 2002. She is a member of the Illinois State Florist Association, a Certified Floral Designer {CFD}, Illinois Certified Professional Florist [ICPF], and a member of The American Institute of Floral Design {AIFD}.

Call or text Selmi’s Weddings and Events at 815-622-8040 to set up your appointment today!

Visit the website at www.selmibridal.com email: selmisweddings@outlook.com

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815-622-8040

• Wedding Flowers • Rentals • Wedding Planning • Invitations

www.selmibridal.com selmisweddings@outlook.com

223/225 1st Ave., Rock Falls, IL

Katy Selmi-Downs

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Dress for success Make sure your fairytale wedding has a happy ending; do your homework before heading to the dress shop LONNIE MILLER Special to I Do

Almost every bride dreams for years about that day she’ll walk down the aisle with her soul mate.

She pictures just the way she wants to look, and all the details of her perfect gown.

She’s got plenty of time to think about that dress, which is just what she does. Before even walking through the door of her dress shop, today’s astute brides are doing their homework, searching stores and websites, collecting ideas.

A Storybook Ending Bridal and Prom Shop in DeWitt, Iowa, houses more than 300 distinctive bridal gowns to try on in sizes 6-28W. They travel all over the country to hand pick their styles.

Owner Crystal Gray advises brides and their families on what to expect when shopping for a gown.

Some bridal shops ask brides and their guests to remove their shoes to protect the gowns and keep the interior of the store clean. It’s also customary to ask that no beverages be brought in the store.

“We are the only bridal shop in the area that does not take appointments to view our lines. We work on a first-come, first-served basis only, so you can come in when it is convenient for you. We suggest being here at least 2 hours before closing so you have plenty of time to shop. We do end bridal sessions 15 minutes prior to the store’s closing.

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Petals

to

Parties!

~ Special occasi on dresses large selection of styles/sizes ~ Choose from 2 tuxedo rental co mpanies ~ Fresh and perm anent flowers ~ Event decorat ing/rentals ~ Gifts

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rties.com

info@petals

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toparties.co

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your way ...

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Budget first, shop second DRESSES

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“During January through May, our Saturdays are quite busy,” Gray said.

“Our bridal sessions are typically 1 to 1 ½ hours so that we can accommodate all of our clients. During the week, it is much quieter, so if you like that setting, we would encourage you to come in then. “But whatever day you decide,” Gray said, “your experience will be enjoyable.”

She also advises brides to do some research to decide what details are important to them when picking out a gown, and determine what kind of budget will be required.

“Budgets should be discussed with whoever is paying for the gown before shopping, so that a bride can avoid disappointment over falling in love with a gown that’s way outside the budget.”

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Submitted by Crystal Gray/Storybook Ending

From the elegant to the daring to the classic, A Storybook Ending Bridal and Prom Shop offers a wide range of wedding dresses.

Sheer Elegance in An Historic Setting ...for any occasion...

Wedding Ceremonies ~ Receptions ~ Birthday Parties ~ Meetings Showers ~ Reunions ~ Anniversaries ~ Quinceañeras ~ Business Meetings and Dinners ~ Holiday Parties~ … and much more…

~Seating for 240~ ~Capacity of 280~ ~Use a caterer Or bring your own food~ 100 W 2nd Street, Dixon IL 61021 815-288-0892 posthouseballroom.com posthouseballroom.shutterfly.com Accessories Exchange September 13, 2015, 1 to 3 pm in the Ballroom. Barter, sell, give away event accessories, to others who wish to barter, buy or take your items! Think of your party/bridal decorative items like vases, pew bows, card boxes, candles, votive holders, marbles, water beads, cake toppers, swags. lights, and dresses, shoes, jewelry, etc. Call to reserve a table. Open to the public!

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Know your dress options: New, gently used, or rented DRESSES

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“Go online and make a collection of pictures with styles that interest you,” Gray said. “Brides should also be open to trying on styles other than ‘the one’ on which you’ve had your eye.

Then be willing to try on several styles to decide which one really flatters you.”

The trends this year and for 2016 are dresses with lace. “It never goes out of style,” Gray said, adding that other trends include “deep-scoop open backs and really elegant ball gowns with big, ‘poofy’ skirts.

Necklines are a little more conservative, allowing for more coverage. The designers are using illusion, tulle, and lace appliqué on sleeves and cap sleeves. The Mermaid style with deep-scoop backs is still very popular.

SVM File photos

LEFT: This never-before-worn gown marked at $50 is just one example of the affordable selection of gently used bridal wear at The Dressing Room, in Lou Ray’s (above) Clinton consignment store, Déjà Vu.

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Sparkle for Your Big Day! James O. Hey, D.D.S

Meghan Crisham, D.D.S We provide q quality care for all ages and dental concerns.

Solutions for Every Smile Cosmetic & General Dentistry For The Whole Family

724 North Brinton Avenue Dixon, IL 61021

• Preventive dentistry & cleaning • Whitening, bonding & veneers • Nitrous Oxide Available • Implant Restorations • Emergency care available

815-288-4731

www.ExceptionalDentistry.us

Tim Sivesind - DJ/Owner 495 E.Willow Street, Elburn, IL

630-606-5167 prismlightdjs@gmail.com Visit us at

www.prismlightdjs.com “For our wedding, we had Tim Sivesind from Prism Light DJs handle the music for our reception. I could go on and on and gush about the amazing experience that we had,but I would prefer to list out all the positive things aboutTim and his service excellence.

Here are all the reasons that we made the right decision by having Tim take care of the DJ services for our wedding: •Tim is very friendly, personable, and respectful • He is very experienced (over 15 years) and has done A LOT of weddings • He is very easy to work with and organized, kept everything right on schedule during our reception • He took into account all the music that we like as well as those songs we wanted to avoid (asked for our feedback) • He is easy to make appointments with, and is very reliable and punctual •Tim truly loves working as a DJ,and is not just doing it for the money - he has a passion for music • He offered honest professional opinions while still stressing the importance of is being our wedding day • Tim uses very high quality equipment, and some of the most updated lighting effects out there (incredible!)

• Our guest said they has an awesome time, and Tim threw one heck of a party and really rocked our reception!

• His services are very reasonably priced and we definitely got a lot more than we paid for!

Tim and Prism Light DJs are a “Diamond in the Rough.” Be sure to check him out,because he will do everything to make sure your evening is special and one-of-akin! He takes great pride in exceeding the expectations of his clients, and we has an incredible overall experience with Tim.We are happy to refer him to anyone who needs a professional DJ that offers a personal touch!”

Matthew and Susana Perry ‘The WeddingWireCouple’ Choice AwardsTM recognizes the top 5 percent of local Wedding Professionals from the WeddingWire Network throughout the United States and Canada that demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism.

Let Us Be Your Something Blue...

- Complete backup system - State-of-the-art equipment

- Over 20 years of experience - Stress free planning - Unlimited music library - Free consultation

- No travel fees - Free set up and tear down

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Money saved on dresses can help elsewhere DRESSES

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“Whatever style you choose for your special day, remember to look for gowns that are made with high quality fabric and construction; you will notice the difference,” Gray said.

A bride who’s really budget conscience might consider renting a gown or buying a used gown.

Something Borrowed, Something Blue in Rochelle offers a wide range of gowns, and even offers rentals of dresses and accessories. Rental might be an option for those who have a tight budget.

Another place to look is The Dressing Room at Déjà Vu in Clinton< Iowa . It offers gently-used but perfectly maintained gowns for sale. Prices range from $20 to about $500.

Designer gowns can be priced at the higher end of that spectrum, but the shop’s owner, Lou Ray,

‘‘

Whatever style you choose for your special day, remember to look for gowns that are made with high quality fabric and construction; you will notice the difference.

’’

Crystal Gray, owner of A Storybook Ending Bridal and Prom Shop

will help find just the right gown and coordinating dresses for attendants. The store’s website has pictures of available gowns with sizes and prices listed.

These ideas allow brides to direct their savings from bargain hunting to other expenses, and still have a beautiful gown.

Take advantage of the professionals at the shop of your choice. They can help make your fairytale wedding dreams

Dress Sales/Rentals The Dressing Room at Déjà Vu Address: 101 Fifth Ave., Clinton, Iowa Phone: 563-242-3356 Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday Facebook: “The Dressing Room at Deja Vu” Storybook Ending Address: 704 Sixth Ave., DeWit, Iowa Phone: 563-659-3983 Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Wednesday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday Something Borrowed, Something Blue Address: 1121 N. Seventh, St., Rochelle Phone: 815-543-8105 Email: somethingbsb@ hotmail.com Online: SomethingBSB.

com Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday; Saturday and evenings by appointment.

Marien and Mae Bridal Boutique Address: 749 First St., LaSalle Phone : 815-220-0844 Online: marienmae.com/ I Do Address: 995 Galena Square Drive, Galena Phone: 815-777-2507 Online: idobridalllc.com/ David’s Bridal Address: 5252 Elmore Ave., Davenport, Iowa Phone: 563-344-7902 Online: davidsbridal.com/ Petals to Parties Address: 123 W. First St., Dixon Phone: 815-288-7496 Online: petalstoparties. com

Our beautiful banquet WE INVITE room can comfortably YOU to schedule a accommodate up to 300

tour of The Loft.

guests in an intimate, gracious setting.

13030 Galt Rd. | Sterling, IL | 815-626-2988

Lasting Relationships Church Weddings

Home Weddings d Outdoor or On-Site Wedding Ceremonies

Rev. Scott Porter Senior Pastor Northeast Corner of 6th Ave & Lynn Blvd., Sterling • 815-626-1827 • www.abidingwordchurch.org

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Hearts and flours How sweet – and neat – it is: Wedding cakes are more than just desserts; they’re part of the decor

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN Special to I Do

The wedding cake is as much a decoration as it is a dessert.

Many couples choose cakes that reflect, at least in part, the theme of their big day.

Cakes with burlap ribbon, silk flowers, and driftwood toppers are very popular, just as weddings set out in the country, among the cornstalks, or under old barns are popular, said Aurelio Gallardo, owner of Aurelio’s Bake Shop in Sterling.

“Maybe 80 percent [of the cakes we do] are for those outdoor weddings,” he said.

The remaining 20 percent of the cakes that come out of the shop are the more traditional, tiered cakes with fondant ribbon and gumpaste flowers, he said.

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Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Aurelio Gallardo, owner of Aurelio’s Bake Shop in Sterling, decorates a bridal shower cake.

I Do

STAY& SAY,

‘‘I DO!’’

We will create a rustically elegant wedding experience together, for you and your party.

409 N. State St., Franklin Grove,, IL 61031 | 815.456.7700 | lincolnwayinn.com

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SVM file photos

LEFT: Erica Hartzell, operates a baking business, Treat Me (above), out of the Scottee Shirts storefront, which is owned by her mother, Cindy Hartzell, at 217 Washington St. in downtown Prophetstown. Erica earned a certificate from the French Pastry School of Chicago in 2011, then worked for 3 years at a bakery in Oak Brook before making goodies, including wedding cakes, for people in and around Prophetstown.

Couples seek alternatives to traditional cakes CAKES

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Out-of-the-box cakes – those sculpted and shaped, such as the ones people see on popular television cake-baking shows – are not as common for the main wedding cake; they most often are chosen for a secondary, or groom’s, cake, Gallardo said.

Tractors or farm-implement logos and superhero emblems are popular, he said.

More and more couples are seeking alternatives to the traditional wedding cake, said Erica Hartzell, owner of Treat Me in Prophetstown.

“A lot of people want cupcakes or more simple or smaller wedding cakes, and then cupcakes,” she said.

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Bake Shops Aurelio’s Bake Shop Address: 517 Locust St., Sterling Phone: 815-626-2253 Online: facebook.com/cake71 Cake tastings available by appointment Treat Me Address: 217 Washington St., Prophetstown Phone: 815-716-3818 Online: facebook.com/treatmedesserts Jackie’s Delish Deserts Phone: 815-593-0783 Online: jackiesdelishdesserts@yahoo.com, or search for “Jackie’s Delish Desserts” on Facebook Sweet Dreams Address: 1969B DeKalb Ave., Sycamore Phone: 815-756-8150 Online: sweetdreamdesserts.com/ Sweetheart Bakery Address: 245 Main Ave., Clinton, Iowa

Phone: 563-242-4105 Online: sweetheartbakeryclinton.com/ Midnight Cake Shop Address; 408 S. Madison St., Morrison Phone: 815-590-9572 Email: midnightcakeshop@gmail.com Online: midnightcakeshop.com, or search for “Midnight Cake Shop” on Facebook Folsom’s Bakery Address: 319 First Ave., Rock Falls Phone: 815-622-7870 Online: folsomsbakery.com Wal-Mart Address: 1640 S Galena Ave., Dixon Phone: 815-288-7770 Address: 4115 E. Lincolnway, Sterling Phone: 815-626-7200 Hy-Vee Address: 901 S. Fourth St., Clinton, Iowa Phone: 563-243-6162 Online: hy-vee.com

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The Barn

at Hornbaker Gardens

• 4-Season Building • Seats up to 350 • Covered Patio • Bride’s & Groom’s Rooms • Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Site events@hornbakergardens.com events@hornbakergardens.c

Botanical Gardens Arboretum Garden Center

Princeton, Illinois • 815-659-3282 • www.hornbakergardens.com/thebarn

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Cookies, doughnuts, pies get a wedding invite CAKES

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Other requests have included cookies, doughnuts, and pies, Gallardo added. Some couples assemble a dessert bar and offer a variety of sweet treats, he said.

Couples also can choose flavors that help reflect the theme of their special day.

In the summer, Aurelio’s offers cakes and cupcakes with berries, peaches, and other fresh, seasonal fruit; in the fall, the shop has caramel apple and pumpkin goodies, Gallardo said.

Tres leches cake and dulce de leche filling also are popular selections for local weddings, he added.

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Wedding cakes come in all sorts of shapes and sizes – short and tall, round and square, like this one at Aurelio’s Bake Shop in Sterling.

from the Sauk Valley Area:

C& J

Entertainment José Rodriquez

Photography & DJ Service for all occasions such as weddings, birthday parties, family reunions, etc.

Contact us for the best prices!

815-719-7180

CJEntertainment23@outlook.com

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Sending you on your marry way Love’s journey can begin the day you get married, with a destination wedding LONNIE MILLER Special to I Do

“Each couple I see has their own beautiful story about how they met, what they foresee as their future, what they want for their special day,” said Avril Guinn, a Sterling travel professional.

For a growing number of couples, that story begins with a destination wedding, where the happy couple says their “I do’s” in a setting away from home – usually at least 100 miles away, according to destinationweddingmag.com.

The possibilities for the bride and groom, like their love, are endless. They can get married in a tropical paradise, a place that holds special importance to the couple, or even another continent.

DESTINATIONS CONTINUED ON 28

Avril Guinn, of Destinations Travel Services in Sterling, can assist you with planning your destination wedding.

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

The Dressing Room at Deja Vu

Bridal Gowns

• ••••••••••••••••••••• •

Bridesmaids

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Mother of the Bride • ••••••••••••••••••••• •

Buy Straight off the Rack!!

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•Our Dresses are 1/2 the Price of a Traditional Bridal Salon •Check out our large selection of wedding dresses starting at $99 •Take your new gown home today!

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Destination weddings can be tailored to your budget DESTINATIONS

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Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Travel brochures aren’t just for honeymoons; travel agents are helping couples find the perfect place to get married.

You’re in this together.

Destination weddings are hugely popular. A combination of benefits – including unique and beautiful settings, dedicated family time, and honeymoon amenities – make these weddings a perfect fit for those planning their special day.

According to both Guinn, owner of Destinations Travel Services in Sterling, and Andrea Canas, a longtime Dixon Travel agent who works for Rennert Travel, the most popular destinations include Jamaica, Mexico, Bahamas, Cancun, Hawaii and Saint Lucia.

Canas offers custom packages dependent upon the budget and desires of each couple. The budget required for each wedding varies by destination, resort location, and families’ specific wants and needs. You’re planning not only for the wedding, but for the guests as well.

TRIPS CONTINUED ON 29

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I Do

29

Planning a destination ‘I do’? Consult a professional TRIPS

CONTINUED FROM 28

“Remember, each location offers a wide range of amenities and rates for such,” Canas said. “Do you want the best deal, the best value, or the best time? We can help with that. Some destinations have quality, professional wedding planners that help walk a couple through every detail, and some, well, not quite.”

A couple may choose an agent-assisted, personally planned wedding, or one that’s planned entirely by a professional with the couple’s input. Whatever the destination, there are many considerations – including legalities – that vary by location, making a seasoned travel consultant indispensable. Having the expertise of both the planner and the travel agent who understand the consumer can be beneficial and make the

special day go smoothly.

“They have your back,’ Canas said.

“There are destinations for any type wedding: cruise ships, culturally driven weddings, such as Asian or East Indian, or specific venues that take into consideration religious preferences. If you can dream it, we will try to find it!”

Guinn is enthusiastic about the benefits of destination weddings, too.

“Often, for a traditional wedding, I have brides and grooms trying to juggle all the people who want to help make decisions. It ends up being about what the rest of the families want instead of what the couple want for their wedding.”

She stresses the importance of consulting with an agent who can educate couples about the many affordable options that are available.

“Hotels and resorts have packages and deals all the

In Style

Announce Your Wedding

time. They will also work with a couple to arrange for a live video feed for those who might not be able to attend a destination wedding.”

Guinn offers ideas on how to pay for destination packages.

Her agency has a honeymoon registry where friends and family can contribute. “Couples now often live together before getting married, and they’ve set up housekeeping already. They don’t need another toaster.”

With social media, many couples are opting for electronic invitations, saving the money they would spend on traditional printed invitations, postage and such. That money can be earmarked for the wedding and honeymoon trip. Couples can put a small deposit down when they begin their planning, usually anywhere from 6 to 15 months before the actual date, and then pay over a period of time.

They use windfalls such as

More info

Andrea Canas Phone: 210-524-3337 Email: acanas@rennerttravel.com or ac1surf@ yahoo.com Online: rennerttravel.com/ agent-list.aspx Avril Guinn Phone: 815-625-3500 Online: destinationstravelservices.com Email: triprequests@DestinationTravelServices.com or avril@destinationstravelservices.com cash gifts and tax refunds to apply to the cost of the trip, and friends and family sometimes chip in to pay. They just have to have the trip paid for in 6 weeks before the wedding.

If your destination is “Happily Ever After,” perhaps it’s time to let an experienced professional help plan your destination wedding.

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STERLING – You’ve set the date. You’ve shopped for a wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses. You’ve shopped for tuxes.

What about all the other stuff?

Paper goods – save-the-date cards, invitations, programs – decorations, and favors all set the tone for your special day.

Many couples choose a theme, maybe based on the locale of their ceremony and reception, their shared interests, or maybe even based on their occupations. They

then carry that theme throughout the big day.

Save-the-date cards and invitations give guests an impression of the style of your wedding. Photos, colors, and fonts all help communicate the theme, said Holly Davis, a graphic designer at SBM in Sterling.

“We get a feel for what they want and need, and we go from there,” she said. “With the things we offer, we design almost a logo for them to use on everything. … We start with the save-the-dates and continue that design with the invitations, programs, and other paper goods.”

WEDDING GEAR CONTINUED ON 32

The bridal party and guests can slip into something cozy (above) or slip a can into a koozie (top), thanks to personalized gear that can be wearable, whimsical, or both, such as these products from JJM Printing in Sterling.

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Planning to buy wedding supplies? Plan ahead WEDDING GEAR CONTINUED FROM 30

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Coy Underhile, of Rock Falls, screens designs onto shirts at JJM Printing in Sterling.

SBM offers save-the-date cards, invitations, programs, seating charts, place cards, banners, and even water bottle labels. The “logo” usually features the couple’s names or initials and their wedding date. It can be used on envelopes and labels, stickers, even T-shirts and can coolers.

Couples should send out announcements or save-the-date cards about 6 months ahead and wedding invitations about 8 weeks ahead.

It takes about a week to go back and forth over the design, then just 2 or 3 business days to complete the order, Davis added.

“Nothing we do is standard. Everything is custom,” she said.

Favors also set the tone for your special day and help your guests remember your wedding.

Many couples give favors that coincide with the theme of their special day. And most couples want their favors and other elements of their wedding personalized, said Kayla Fargher, manager of JJM Printing in Sterling.

PERSONALIZED CONTINUED ON 33

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Businesses make weddings more personal PERSONALIZED

In addition to invitations, wedding favors and other merchandise, SBM in Sterling also offers a wide selection of gifts that guests can buy for the happy couple.

CONTINUED FROM 32

“People want things with their names on it, they want things that are unique to their wedding,” she said.

JJM Printing offers T-shirts (for bachelor/bachelorette parties), can coolers, even personalized disposable cameras.

The company also offers personalized glasses and plaques.

“If you can put an imprint on it, we can source it and personalize it for a wedding,” Fargher said.

Tank tops with glitter lettering – “bride” and “bridesmaid” – are very popular for bachelorette parties and the morning of the wedding, she said. Can coolers are perhaps the most popular item for favors, and pint glasses and wine glasses are popular for gifts, she said.

Most orders take about 2 weeks from conception to fulfillment, Fargher added.

“Most people go to Pinterest and show us a picture of what they want,” she said. “We love to work with brides. We can usually get pretty close to what they bring us.”

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Tieing the knot Here’s comes the groom, sporting less formal and more casual wedding attire LONNIE MILLIER Special to I Do

While it’s true that brides have a huge say in what their husbands-to-be will wear for the wedding, grooms are weighing in with their own preferences, and that fashion statement they’re making is “less formal and more casual.”

Seno Formal Wear in Sterling is offering tuxes in new “modern-fit” and a sleeker “sports” style.

Ariela Olalde-Herrera said that wearing the tux sans jacket, with just suspenders, and no vest is a very comfortable but semiformal option.

TUXEDOS CONTINUED ON 36

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Black is still a classic, but grooms get the blues, too TUXEDOS

Tuxedo Rentals

CONTINUED FROM 34

Bow ties and pocket squares can be coordinated to match the choice of colors for the wedding, and can be a way to personalize the tux.

Sauk Valley Cleaners & Tuxedos in Dixon offers selections reflecting the latest style trends. Their vendors update the selection every 2 months. Customers can make an appointment with Tracey Linboom, a specialist there, and she can help select the perfect combination of comfort and style to meet groom’s taste.

With budget concerns, couples are finding that renting just shirts, ties and pants, but no jacket, can save money as well.

This option is especially suitable for outdoor or destination weddings, and less formal weddings.

If formal is what you want, then you still have plenty of choices – it’s not all just a black-tie affair.

According to MyTuxedoCatalog.com, a nationwide tuxedo wholesaler, trends for 2015 include the colorful and the classic.

Brides wear something borrowed and something blue, and tuxedo trends are borrowing from their fashion sense. Blue

Seno Formal Wear-Sterling Address: 4015-A East Lincolnway, Sterling Phone: 815-625-8247 Hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. -7 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.4 p.m.

Sauk Valley Cleaners & Tuxedos Address: 120 W. River St., Dixon Phone: 815-288-1322 Hours: by appointment Flowers Etc. Address: 1103 Palmyra St., Dixon Phone: 815-288-3335 Online: www.eflowersetc.com Petals to Parties Address: 123 W. First St., Dixon Phone: 815-288-7496 Online: petalstoparties.com is big this year, but not the 1970s powder blue that makes fashionistas cringe. Midnight, navy, or slate blues are marching down the aisle in 2015.

Grays remain a popular choice for weddings. It’s a way to pull back just a bit on the formality, but still stay classy.

Cherish Your Memories

If picking the blues and the grays could cause a civil way with your bride-to-be, there’s always the classic: Black. Long the “backbone of the formal wear industry,” black is a timeless option for formal occasions. Though tradition says that black tuxes are suited for evening weddings, the fashion rules are lax, and black tuxes are popular for daytime weddings, too.

One benefit of black: Your wedding pictures won’t look dated.

Color isn’t the only consideration when it comes to picking out a tux. There’s also style. Cutaways are a popular option right now, giving the wedding party a little touch of royal class. There are also different lapel styles – the main ones being notch lapels, peak lapels, and shawl collars. No one lapel type is emerging as the most popular, so personal preference will likely be the deciding factor for grooms.

And don’t forget the bow ties and cummerbunds. They can add a splash of color or a dash of class to your format attire.

Whatever you choose to don for the I do’s, take some time to explore all the options with a local tuxedo shop and check out what’s available and try on the tuxes. The professionals can help grooms decide what will look best and feel most comfortable for the big day.

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Before the big date: A wedding checklist 9 months before

Choose your wedding date. If you plan to be married in a church or temple, clear the date and time with the clergy.

Announce your engagement in local newspapers.

Set your budget. Take time for a heart-to-heart talk with your fiancé about the budget and style of your wedding, reception and wedding-related parties, and who pays for what. Consider hiring a bridal consultant. If your budget won’t allow that, enlist relatives and close friends to help – especially in areas where you feel you need support.

Compose your guest list. Let out-of-town guests know your wedding is in the works so they can make travel plans.

Reserve the reception site.

Choose wedding attendants.

Select your wedding gown, shoes and accessories.

Decide on bridesmaids’ dresses.

Determine the theme or mood you’d like to establish with the food, table settings, flowers and entertainment at your reception.

Interview caterers, musicians,

florists, photographers, videographers and cake makers. Get written estimates of their costs. Keep track of your discussions and their bids in a notebook or with wedding-planning software.

6 months before

Choose your caterer, musicians and florist. Remember to get written contracts.

Book your photographer and videographer.

Select your baker and order the cake.

Decide on your color scheme.

Shop for wedding rings with your fiancé.

Decide on your honeymoon destination. Work with a travel agent to book your travel and accommodations.

Select your wedding invitations.

Don’t forget to purchase personal stationery for your thank-you notes.

4 months before

Register for gifts at one or more bridal-gift registries.

Help both mothers to coordinate and shop for their wedding-day attire.

Select music for the ceremony

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Choose readings for your wedding and write your wedding vows.

Plan a rehearsal dinner for members of your wedding party, your family and out-of-town guests.

Reserve the location.

Arrange hotel accommodations for members of the wedding party who live out of town. Reserve a block of rooms for other out-oftown guests, and let them know the rooms are available. Remember to ask for any group discounts or special packages.

Reserve your wedding-day transportation and any other wedding-day rental needs.

Make appointments for gown fittings.

Check the requirements for a marriage license.

Make sure contracts and arrangements are complete with all of your service providers.

3 months before

Prepare directions, including simply drawn maps, if necessary, to help guide guests to the wedding and reception, and to hotels. For guests who will travel a long distance, consider assembling an infor-

mation package on fun things to do and see in your area.

Begin addressing invitations and announcements. Select a special stamp at the post office. Invitations should go in the mail 6 to 8 weeks before your big day.

Give the caterer or other food suppliers a close idea of the number of guests you expect.

Make sure all reservations are in place for honeymoon travel.

Check with bridesmaids to make sure they have their gowns and are getting them adjusted.

Shop for gifts for your bridesmaids. Offer to help your fiancé select gifts for his attendants.

Select your “going away” outfit and special items for your trousseau.

Make a date with your photographer for formal portraits.

Make an appointment to have your hair done just before your portrait session and again the day or so before your wedding. Consider including your bridesmaids in a “day of beauty” before your wedding, with manicures, hair styling, massages and makeup sessions.

CHECKLIST CONTINUED ON 38

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CONTINUED FROM 37

2 months before

Mail out your wedding invitations and announcements.

Have wedding portraits taken.

Send bridal portrait and wedding announcement to newspapers for publication.

Finalize the music that will be played during the wedding.

Meet with musicians/DJs and go over precisely what you want and when you want it played. Don’t be shy to voice your preferences, down to the volume, favorite songs you’d like to hear, or even songs you don’t want played.

Plan your rehearsal dinner and a brunch or fun activity for out-of-town guests to enjoy on the day following your wedding.

Buy special accessories for your wedding-day attire.

Plan a luncheon for your bridesmaids.

Make appointments for a hairdresser, makeup artist and manicurist.

Finalize honeymoon plans. If

The

you’re traveling overseas, check again that your passports are current and that you have any necessary visas.

Gather necessary birth or baptismal certificates you may need for your wedding license.

1 month before

Get your wedding license.

Have a final fitting of your gown and make sure your attendants have theirs.

Check that your menu selections and service plans are locked in place with the caterer.

Purchase a special book to keep track of wedding gifts as they arrive.

Keep writing those thank-you notes on a daily basis!

If you plan a formal dinner for your reception, it’s time to draw up a seating plan and make up place cards.

Check with your florist to confirm dates and times of flower deliveries.

Review your wedding-day transportation plans and make sure drivers are clear about addresses, times and number of passengers.

Make name or address chang-

Celebration Starts Here

es official on documents, including driver’s license, Social Security forms and financial accounts. Fill out change-of-address forms at the post office.

Meet with your photographer to specify the formal shots of the bridal party, as well as specific, candid shots you want of the reception.

Review the video plans with your videographer.

2 weeks before

Keep writing those thank-you notes for wedding gifts!

Pick up your wedding rings.

Make sure any special engraving appears precisely as you wished.

Start packing for the honeymoon.

1 week

Make final checks with all your vendors: officiant, musicians, florist, photographer, videographer, limousine or other transportation provider, caterers and baker.

Ask a friend or family member to arrange for wedding gifts that may be brought to your reception to be delivered to your home or another safe spot.

Wrap gifts for bridal attendants and have them ready for the

rehearsal dinner.

Purchase travelers’ checks and reconfirm honeymoon travel and hotel plans.

See that checks are written and ready to be handed out to vendors at the agreed-upon time.

Inform your caterer of the final number of guests. Confirm that outof-town guests are set with hotel accommodations, transportation and wedding-day directions.

The day before

Take time to relax and enjoy a massage, manicure and pedicure.

Traditionally, this is the day for your rehearsal ceremony and rehearsal dinner. Have fun!

Turn in early for a good night’s sleep.

Wedding day

Allow plenty of time for dressing, makeup and hair styling.

If you plan on photography before the ceremony, allow ample time so you’re not rushed.

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Make it a picture-perfect wedding Plan ahead and let the photographer focus on the rest LONNIE MILLER Special to I Do

A picture’s worth, well, whatever the wedding photographer charges.

But memories are priceless, so you’ll want to ensure that the mem-

ories you pay for are your favorites.

Wedding days can be fraught with things that can go wrong, fuzzy photos and tired subjects included.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Some planning, along with picking

the right photographer, can help you avoid those wedding bell blues.

Area photographers offer tips to help you have fun and gather sweet memories of your day.

PHOTOS CONTINUED ON 40

Submitted by Suzanne Paul/Just Cause Photography

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It was a sunkissed day in more ways than one for the happy couple in this photo by Jodi Flynn Photography. From the posed to the casual, the moments that wedding photographers capture will give couples smiles that last long after the wedding day.

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The little things can mean a lot in photos PHOTOS

CONTINUED FROM 39

Jodi Flynn, of Jodi Flynn Photography in Chadwick, advises people to “Remember to capture all the little details that went into planning your wedding. Take candid pictures of the rings, the dress, the tuxes, the cake, everything! I like to arrive early in the day, and snap pictures all the way to the dance. Everything was carefully thought out by the couple, and it’s good to actually capture those small details as well as the more formal photos.”

She also advises grabbing some ideas off Pinterest.

Make a board that you can share with your photographer to give him or her an idea of your tastes.

She said that, as a photographer, “One of my very favorite photos is that moment when the couple sees one another just before the wedding. I love to capture that look on their faces as they see their loved one in this life-changing moment. I try to arrange it so everyone else is out of the room except the couple. Not every couple wants the privacy to share that particular moment just between the two of them, but many do.”

Submitted by Jodi Flynn/Jodi Flynn Photography

SNAPSHOTS CONTINUED ON 41

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Gather some ideas before meeting with photographer SNAPSHOTS

CONTINUED FROM 40

Courtesy of Suzanne Paul/Just Cause Photography

Wedding photos are more than just beaming brides and glowing grooms.

Good photographers can capture the color of a wedding by staging photos of bouquets, rings, cake toppers, and other wedding items.

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Jodi takes her two daughters with her to each job, so she has the opportunity to have her team in different areas of the venue. They can capture more details of the day and simultaneous shots by doing so.

Suzanne Paul of Just Cause Photography in Ashton says she’s seeing more couples asking friends to take cellphone pictures and share them. It’s today’s version of disposable cameras. While it may be fun for friends and family, it can also present challenges for photographers. She said that if you’re paying for a photographer, it’s best to allow the photographer unfettered access for the formal shots. By asking cellphone and amateur photographers to hold off, or banning them all together, you’ll make it possible for the professional to get the photos that are important to you.

Gathering ideas for creative shots is another way to make your wedding special. Pinterest is a popular website that allows you to get ideas from all over the world. Be sure to let the photographer know before the wedding what kind of pictures you want. Also, make sure you have the props and the people gathered into one place.

PHOTOGRAPHERS CONTINUED ON 42

42

www.saukvalley.com

Relax, have fun, fill your photos with smiles PHOTOGRAPHERS CONTINUED FROM 41

“Someone’s always wandering off while we’re trying to get pictures,” she said. “Or the flowers are missing, and so on. You’ll save time and frustration by making a list of desired photos and getting props gathered up for them before the big day.”

A timeline for the wedding is a wonderful tool for photographers. In fact, that’s a help to anyone involved in making your day go off without trouble.

For those brides who want to glow on their wedding day – courtesy of a spray tan – Paul said it’s best not to get your spray tan the day before the wedding. Get it a bit earlier, if at all. Photos involve people with all variations of skin tones, and “spray tans can show up really orange” in photos.

Remember to capture heritage and customs in your photos. Every family has its own history and your wedding day is a perfect time to record some of that.

Lastly, try to relax and have fun. Have your support people close and in their assigned roles throughout the day so you don’t have to make last-minute decisions and solve unexpected problems. Your photos will be so much prettier if you can sincerely relax.

That way, when you flip through your wedding album in the months – and years – after the wedding, you’ll know that a picture is worth a thousand smiles.

Photographers Jodi Flynn Photography, Chadwick Phone: 815-266-9955 Email: djeebb@hotmail.com Online: jodiflynnphotography.blogspot.com and on Facebook Just Cause Photography, Ashton Contact: Suzanne Paul Phone: 815-440-7982 Online: justcausephotography.com and on Facebook Onsite Photography Address: 3917 E. Lincolnway, Suite B; P.O. Box 106, Sterling Phone: 815-716-3282 E-mail: ayonk@photosbyonsite.com Online: photosbyonsite.com Timestilling Photography Phone: 815-441-5699 E-mail: timestilling@gmail.com Online www.timestilling.com Brett Paul Photography Address: 1720 Park Ave., Sycamore Phone: 815-762-2390 E-mail: bdpaul1@comcast.net Online: http://brettpaulphotography.com/

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A honeymoon close to home

Newlyweds can book a relaxing stay at bed and breakfast, where nature is your neighbor

BY JERMAINE PIGEE jpigee@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5525 @JPigee84

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com

The Blackhawk Room is one of two that occupy the attic at the Lincolnway Bed and Breakfast in Franklin Grove.

FRANKLIN GROVE – You spent months planning your wedding.

You fussed and fidgeted over the details. You made sure everything was just right. You wowed your guests, entertained your relatives, and danced the night away.

Now comes the well-earned alone time to unwind and finally enjoy each others’ company as husband and wife.

What better way for the bride and

groom to treat themselves than with a little R&R at a B&B, which is just what a Franklin Grove business can offer the newly wedded couple: rest, relaxation, bed, and breakfast.

At 409 N. State St. in Franklin Grove, the Lincoln Way Inn Bed and Breakfast opened in June and offers five locally themed guest rooms, an outdoor hot tub and fireplace, a four-season dining porch, and a library with a computer and printer for guest use. There’s also cable and wireless Internet in each room.

B&B CONTINUED ON 44

BombshellBride Engagements • Weddings Graduating Seniors • Families • Newborns

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•hair • makeup • spray tan •nails • facials • waxing • massage

Polished Hair & Nails Ltd. 315 E. Hitt St | Mt. Morris | (815) 734-6812

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www.saukvalley.com

Couples can find a home-style honeymoon at B&B Lisa Ayres, 47, who co-owns the bed and breakfast with her husband, John, 47, said she wanted to fill a need in the area.

“We are at the doorstep of Franklin Creek State Park and the doorstep of the Nachusa Grasslands,” Ayres said.

“Students, researchers, photographers and artists come out to experience this area, but there is no place to stay. This is filling a need for the community.”

On the historic Lincoln Way in Franklin Grove, the bed and breakfast also offers spa services, a sauna and a workout area, among other amenities.

The locally themed rooms each have a unique design and decor, selected

by Ayres. The Nachusa and Taft rooms feature their own bathrooms with showers.

The Sandburg Suite features a fireplace and a spa bathroom with a clawfoot tub and a shower.

The Blackhawk and Sauk rooms, both on the third floor, each have a

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CONTINUED FROM 43

vanity sink and share a spacious common area with fireplace – and shared bathroom with shower.

Included with the rooms are a variety of amenities such as fresh flowers, organic robes, slippers, linens, and towels.

Each room also features a small refrigerator with beverages, coffee and tea service and toiletries.

Guests who visit the bed and breakfast will receive a home-cooked breakfast, made from locally grown and produced products.

“My husband and I have a small farm 3 miles from here,” Ayres said. “Eggs are from our chickens, and I am a beekeeper. The honey I cook with is from our bees.”

A Monroe, Wisconsin, native, Ayres spent 11 years working for the United Service Organizations as a concierge cost.

“People like bed and breakfast for conversation and home life in a unique environment,” Ayres said.

“Being smaller than a hotel, you can give personal attention, or you can give people their space.”

Christopher Barr Photography 2012 © 2012 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios have been independently owned and operated since 1931.

B&B

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com

Lisa Ayers picked out all furnishings and decorations for the B&B, including this distinctive vanity.

More information

For more information about Lincoln Way Inn Bed and Breakfast, contact Ayers at 708-860-2311 or lisa@lincolnwayinn.com, visit lincolnwayinn.com, or search for Lincoln Way Inn on Facebook.

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With this drone, I thee wed Sterling business can give couples a bird’s-eye view of their special day

BY CHRISTI WARREN cwarren@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5521 @SeaWarren

STERLING – Rings: check. Wedding dress: check. Tuxedo: check.

Drone: check.

Come again? You read right: Drones. They’re starting to show up on wedding checklists, and a Sterling business is getting in on the ground floor of the up-and-coming market.

Shannon native Drew Wilkens, who now lives in Sterling with his wife, started a business, Uneek Perspective, a drone video company.

(In case you’re wondering, it’s Uneek Perspective because someone already snagged the online URL for Unique Perspective).

Already, he’s received requests from Realtors and brides-to-be.

DRONES CONTINUED ON 46

The Elegant g Wayy To Go Deluxe Wedding Units • 800-698-6928 • Visit bigjohnusa.com

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46

www.saukvalley.com

He’ll go above and beyond for weddings DRONES

CONTINUED FROM 45

He made a video of one wedding in St. Louis, and he’s headed back soon to do another one.

His sister-in-law had been hired to photograph the wedding, and then she told the bride and groom about Wilkens’ business.

“She talked to the bride and groom and said, ‘My brother-in-law has a drone business,’ and they were like, ‘Whoa, cool,’” he said. “It was an interesting experience.”

Wilkens said he started flying model airplanes when he was about 10 or 12. Since then, his interest in flight has only grown. The 32-year-old has moved on from model planes to the real deal; he’s a professional pilot, flying for ExpressJet. Now, thanks to approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, he can add drone pilot to his resume, and turn his hobby into a serious enterprise.

This year, he became the 401st applicant to the FAA to be allowed to use his drone for commercial purposes when, on May 19, the government gave him the go-ahead.

He has some restrictions on commercial use of the drone. To name a few: He has to notify authorities before he flies it commercially; he must comply with height (400 feet) and speed (15 mph) limits; and he can’t be within 5 nautical miles of an airport.

He’s supposed to send the agency monthly reports, including flight duration and location data for whenever he uses the drone in a commercial capacity.

“I guess I’m sort of one of [the FAA’s] test subjects,” Wilkens said.

The drone itself, or quadcopter, as they’re supposed to be called, is a white Yuneec Q500 Typhoon that comes equipped with a camera capable of filming 1080p, 60-framesper-second videos. It has a flight time of 25 minutes, and a screen on the

Bird’s-eye view

Need some drone aerial photography? Check out Drew Wilkens’ website at uneekperspective.com, call him at 815-493-5292, or email him at mail@uneekperspective.com. hand-held controller allows the operator to see exactly what the camera sees.

What that camera will see depends on his customers, including newlyweds who want to see their nuptials from on-high.

After all, what couple wouldn’t want to flip through their electronic wedding scrapbook years from now and tell people, “We knew we were right for each other. It was love at first flight.”

Andrew Wilkens, owner of Uneek Perspective, flies his drone. Wilkens is an airline pilot and has been approved by the FAA to fly drones.

Photos by Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

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Groom’s CheCklist

BY ROBERT MORTIZ The Knot

So, you finally got up the nerve to pop the big one.

Now it’s time to start doing some heavy wedding lifting.

Here’s a list of your most essential to-dos.

12 months before

3 months before

Figure out where you’re going to have your ceremony and reception.

The best spots fill up fast, especially for summer and fall, so decide your wedding size and start looking.

Organize your guys. After you ask your best man to do the honors, make up your groomsman list. For crowd control, you’ll want at least one usher per 50 guests.

Get what you want. Crazy as it seems, people start buying you gifts immediately, and registering may be the only way to keep your friends’ and relatives’ questionable tastes in check.

Get ready for the freeloaders. Your out-of-town guests need a place to stay, so unless you’ve got a couple dozen spare bedrooms, decide on a hotel and reserve a block of rooms. Let them know this in your invitations.

By this time, the guest list should be finalized – i.e., it has the bride, groom and parents’ approval. Time to send out the invitations.

Get dressed. So what will it be?

Tails and top hat or traditional Scottish kilt? Decide and buy (or rent), then pick out your groomsmen’s getups.

Give a jeweler your finger to be measured. Let your fiancée do the same, and then order your wedding rings. Decide on inscriptions.

If you’re going to tie the knot, you may have to get your blood tested. It’s the law in some states.

9 months before Meet and greet suitable officiants.

Priest, rabbi, justice of the peace, officially sanctioned Elvis impersonator – the choice is yours.

Book the talent. It’ll probably fall to you to choose the band or disc jockey. Be sure to get references and hear music beforehand – and run it by your bride before you sign on the dotted line.

Start drawing up your guest list.

This is something you’ll probably want to get your parents in on, too.

6 to 8 weeks before

Have a good time, but don’t do something stupid. It’s your bachelor party and last chance to go crazy without the ball and chain legally attached.

1 week before

Get ready to relax. Double-check Get a sparkling smile. Cut down on the honeymoon reservations, start packing your bags, and pick up travelcoffee and try a whitening toothpaste.

Want to really shine? Consider a profes- er’s checks. sional bleaching with a dentist or use an Pay your officiant. Put his or her fee over-the-counter whitening system. in an envelope and give it to your best man for post-vow delivery.

Don’t be cheap. This is one of the most important moments in your life, so You are expected to speak to the put some real thought into the matter crowd at your wedding reception. and then buy your bride a wedding gift. Sound sensitive and intelligent, start 6 months before coming up with that impromptu toast Don’t be cheap, part 2. Search Plan your honeymoon. If you’re to her family now. high and low for the perfect groomsleaving the country, now would be a men gifts. These guys are going to put Rally the troops. Give your groomsgood time to check or find your passout come D-Day to make sure you look men the rehearsal dinner low-down port – or get them if you and your girl your best. Make sure you get them and make sure everybody’s got his don’t have ’em – and see what kind of something decent to show for it. monkey suit pressed and ready. By the shots or visas you might need.

Don’t lose it. Pick up your wedding way, get a haircut already.

Who’s driving? Arrange for transrings and put them in a safe place. portation to the ceremony and recepWhile you’re at it, check the engraving The day before tion. Think limousine or horse and carefully for typos.

Make her cry. Write a sweet little “I buggy. love you” note (or other touching trick) While you’re at it, figure out where 2 weeks before and leave it somewhere she’ll find it you’re going after the reception – airon wedding morning, particularly if you Do something really romantic with port? hotel? – and make plans for won’t be seeing her before the ceregetting there. FYI, tradition dictates that your wife-to-be. But before you do, mony. pick up your marriage license. your best man drives you.

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The Bride’s Trousseau Bridal Gown Store: _________________________________________________________________ Phone/Email:__________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________Consultant: __________________ Gown Description: _________________________________________________ Date Ordered: ___________________Date Promised: __________________ Price: _________________________________________________________ Fitting Appointments: (Bring proper undergarments and shoes to fittings.)

Date/Time: ___________________________________________________ Date/Time: ___________________________________________________ Date/Time: ____________________________________________________ Date/Time: _____________________________________________________

Bridal Accessories Headpiece and Veil – Price: _____________________________________ Bra/Bustier – Price: _____________________________________________ Teddy/Body Stockings – Price: ____________________________________ Stockings/Pantyhose – Price: ___________________________________ Garter – Price: _____________________________________________ Petticoat/Slip – Price: _____________________________________ Shoes – Price: _________________________________________ Jewelry – Price: _____________________________________ Wrap/Cape – Price: ________________________________ Other – Price: __________________________________ Something Old – Price:

_______________________

Something New – Price: ____________________ Something Borrowed – Price: ______________ Something Blue – Price: _________________

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Wedding Blooms Florist __________________________________________________Address: _____________________________________________ Contact Person: _________________________________________Phone/Email: _________________________________________ COLOR

NUMBER NEEDED

UNIT PRICE

TOTAL

Bridal Bouquet

______________

______________

______________

______________

Maid of Honor Bouquet

______________

______________

______________

______________

Bridesmaids’ Bouquets

______________

______________

______________

______________

Flower Girl’s Bouquet

______________

______________

______________

______________

Floral Headpieces

______________

______________

______________

______________

Mothers’/Grandmothers’ Corsages

______________

______________

______________

______________

Hostesses’ Flowers

______________

______________

______________

______________

Groom’s Boutonniere

______________

______________

______________

______________

Fathers’/Grandfathers’ Boutonnière

______________

______________

______________

______________

Groomsmen’s /Ushers’ Boutonnière

______________

______________

______________

______________

Ring Bearer’s Pillow

______________

______________

______________

______________

Altar/Chuppah Flowers

______________

______________

______________

______________

Aisle or Pew Decorations

______________

______________

______________

______________

Reception Room Flowers

______________

______________

______________

______________

Head Table Centerpiece

______________

______________

______________

______________

Guests’ Table Centerpieces

______________

______________

______________

______________

Cake/Buffet Table Decorations

______________

______________

______________

______________

Total

______________

______________

______________

______________

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Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AttendAnts Bridesmaids Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________

Flower girl Name: _______________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________

Gowns Store: ________________________________________________Phone/Email: ___________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________ Consultant: _____________________________________ Gown Description: _____________________________________________ Price: __________________________________________ Date Ordered: _________________________________________________ Date Promised: _________________________________ Fitting Appointments: (Bring proper undergarments and shoes to fittings.)

Date/Time: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Date/Time: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Date/Time: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Accessories ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Shoes:________________________________________________________ Price: __________________________________________ Jewelry: ______________________________________________________ Price: _________________________________________ Undergarments:

______________________________________________ Price: _________________________________________

Handbags: ___________________________________________________ Price: _________________________________________ Wrap: _______________________________________________________ Price: _________________________________________ Other: _______________________________________________________ Price: _________________________________________

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The Groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ATTendAnTs Tuxedos Store: ___________________________________________________ Phone/Email:______________________________________ Consultant: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Description: _______________________________________________________Price ____________________________________ Date Measurements Needed By: _______________Pick-Up Date: ________________ Return Date: _____________________

Groomsmen Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________

Ring Bearer Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________

Ushers Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________

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GettinG A Good Reception Where it’s at Reception site __________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ Price: ________________________________________ Contact person: ___________________________________________ Phone/Email: __________________________________

The caterer Name: __________________________________________________ Phone/Email: __________________________________ Cost _________ Deposit: ______Balance Due: ________________ Per-person rate _______________Flat rate: ________

Reception style: Formal ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Hors d’oeuvres _______________________________________________________________________________________ Buffet _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Cake and Punch ________________________________________________________________________________________ Estimated Number of Guests: _______________

Catering services Numbers of wait-staff __________How long will they serve at the reception? ______________________________________ Services they’ll perform __________________________________________________________________________________ What type of equipment does the caterer supply? ____________________________________________________________ What beverages will be supplied? __________________________________________________________________________ Will table service and linens be provided? ______ Who will provide cleanup? _____________________________________

What’s on the Menu?

Hors d’oeuvres _________________________________________________________________________________________ Soup/Salad ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Main course ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Side dishes _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Breads/rolls ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Beverages _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Extras _________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Service ProviderS Beauty Care Salon: ___________________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Stylist: _________________________________________________________________________Price: ________________________ Appointment Date/Time: _______________________________________________________________________________________

Cake Bakery: _________________________________________________ Phone/Email: ________________________________________ Salesperson: _____________________________________________ Price: ______________________________________________ Appointment Date/Time: _______________________________________________________________________________________

Invitations and Stationery Name of Store: ___________________________________________ Salesperson: ________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________________________Price: ________________________ Quantity Ordered: ___________________________Date Ordered: _______________________Date Promised: ________________ Manufacturer:_____________________________________________ Style Number: _______________________________________

Jeweler Name of Store: ___________________________________________ Salesperson: ________________________________________ Phone/Email: ___________________________________________________________________Price: ________________________

Transportation Company Name: _______________________________________________________________Salesperson: __________________ Phone/Email: ___________________________________________________________________Price: ________________________ Type of Vehicle: ________________________________________________________________Capacity: _____________________ Pickup Date: ___________________________________________________________________Time: _________________________ Length of Rental Time: _________________________________________________________________________________________

Travel Agency Agency Name: ___________________________________________ Salesperson: ________________________________________ Phone/Email: ___________________________________________________________________Price: _________________________ Destination: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Departure Date: __________________________________________ Return Date: ________________________________________ Airline: ___________________________________________________ Flight Number: ______________________________________ Travel Notes: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Videography Studio Name: ____________________________________________ Videographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name ________________________________ Phone/Email: ___________________________________________________________________Price: ________________________

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Balancing The BudgeT Stationery

Announcements Invitations Thank-you cards/notes Stamps Other

Attire

Bridal gown Headpiece and veil Shoes Jewelry, gloves Other accessories Groom’s tux Bridal dresses Trousseau Other

Photography

Engagement Wedding/reception Wedding album Parents’ album Additional prints Videography Other

Gifts

Groom’s gift Bride’s gift Groomsmen gifts Bridesmaids gifts Parents’ gifts (optional) Other

Estimated cost

Actual cost

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

Parties

Engagement party Bridesmaids’ lunch Bachelor party Rehearsal dinner

Ceremony

Church, synagogue Officiant fees Organist, soloist fees Janitorial fees

Flowers

Ceremony arrangements Bride’s bouquet Groom’s boutonnière Wedding party Family Reception flowers Host and hostess Reception arrangements Other Reception Facility rental Catering/food Beverages Table decorations Rentals (tents, chairs) Rentals (tableware, linens) Band, DJ, pianist Coat check, valet Tips and fees Janitorial Guestbook/pen Cake knife Unity candle Monogrammed napkins Mementos for guests Birdseed or confetti Other

Honeymoon

Travel clothes Airfare, tickets Hotel reservations Car rental Meals Souvenirs Other

Estimated cost

Actual cost

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

Estimated cost

Actual cost

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

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Index of Advertisers

Here’s where to find the wedding planning professionals, shops and services needed to plan your wedding day

Accommodations Country Inn & Suites ................................... 35 Days Inn..................... 56 Lincoln Way Inn B&B ................................... 23 White Pines Inn .............................. 4 & 5

Auto Dealer Ken Nelson ................ 36

Beauty Salons & Day Spas Joanne’s Total Image ................................... 34 Polished Hair & Nail Salon.......................... 43

Bridal Gowns The Dressing Room at Deja Vu................. 27

Cakes & Sweets CM Cakes and Flowers ................................... 45

Catering Services Creative Cuisine....... 37

Ceremony Sites Barn On The Hill ........ 39 Byron Forest Preserve ................................... 32 Days Inn..................... 56 Hornbaker Gardens ................................... 25 K’s Korners ................. 20 Livengood’s Barn ....... 7 Oak Lane of Oregon ..................................... 3 Rock River Golf & Pool .............................. 8 & 9 White Pines Inn .............................. 4 & 5

Clergy Pastor Scott Porter ... 21

Clothing & Lingerie Lavender ’n’ Lace ... 35

Cosmetics & Beauty Supplies Merle Norman .......... 44

Cosmetic Surgery Exceptional Dentistry ................................... 18

Dresses Petals to Parties ........ 15

Event Planner Aunt Sue’s Bridal....... 40 Ever After Planning ................................... 42 Selmi’s Weddings & Events .......................... 12 & 13

Financial Institutions First National Bank in Amboy......................... 31 Milledgeville State Bank ..................................... 6 Sterling Federal Bank ................................... 33

Floral Preservation JJ’s Keepsake Gardens ................................... 36

Florists CM Cakes and Flowers ................................... 45 Petals to Parties ........ 15 Selmi’s Weddings & Events ............... 12 & 13

Gifts & Gift Registry Oregon Soap Shoppe ................................... 29 Petals to Parties ........ 15

Home Furnishings Petals two Parties ..... 15

Insurance Agents Country Financial..... 13 Schuneman Insurance ................................... 28

Invitations & Supplies Petals to Parties ........ 15 SBM ............................ 29 Seno Formal Wear ................................... 32

Jewelry Don’s Jewelry ........... 33

Liquor Store Rock Falls Liquor ....... 39

Music C & J Entertainment ................................... 26 Premier Entertainment ................................... 44 Prism Light DJs........... 19

Photographers Brett Paul Photography ............................ 1 & 41 Onsite Photography ................................... 17 Bailey Lynne Photography ............ 43

Reception Sites Cont.

Hornbaker Gardens ................................... 25 K’s Korners ................. 20 Lincoln Way Inn B&B ................................... 23 Livengood’s Barn ....... 7 Mendota Civic Center ................................... 38 Oak Lane of Oregon ..................................... 3 Post House Ballroom 16 Rock River Golf & Pool .............................. 8 & 9 Timbercreek................ 2 White Pines Inn .... 4 & 5

Rentals Ace Hardware............ 7 Big John Portable Toilet Rentals ....................... 45 Petals To Parties........ 15 Ever After Planning ................................... 42 Selmi’s Weddings & Events ............................ 9 & 23

Tanning Mystic Fusion............. 38

Transportation Quad City International Airport ................................... 28

Travel Agent Reception Sites Amboy Community Center ....................... 37 Arnie’s Happy Spot ................................... 35 Barn On The Hill ........ 39 Byron Forest Preserve ................................... 32 Days Inn..................... 56

Rennert Travel........... 41

Tuxedo Rental Petals to Parties ........ 15 Seno Formal Wear.... 32

Weight Loss Curves ....................... 34

i o t n p e c e R o t A emember R

• Elegant ballroom with seating up to 300 • Complimentary room for bride & groom • Complimentary cake cutting service • On-site catering with custom menu options available • Group hotel room packages available for family & friends • FREE banquet room for rehearsal dinner or gift opening brunch

Let our experienced sales staff assist you in planning your big day!

2105 First Avenue, Rock Falls, IL

815.626.5500

www.daysinn.com