SVM_Sauk Valley Weddings_012422

eddings W

S AU K VA L L E Y

A

PUBLICATION

2022/23 EDITION

Above this cover: Page 4

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

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Host Toast Celebrate

• Versatile event space for all occasion celebrations • Reasonable rates • Kitchen area, bring your own food or have it catered • Tables and chairs included • Ample parking, easy access for guests

121 E Main Street Morrison, IL 815-768-7996 SM-ST1949089

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CELEBRATIONS | SAUKVALLEY.COM AUG. 3, 2021

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Pick a size (see examples at right) and call, e-mail or stop by our office for pricing ... Sauk Valley Media, 113 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon (9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Friday) 815-632-2566 | celebration@saukvalley.com S a u k

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inside

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don’t worry, be happy There’s a

lot to juggle when planning a wedding, but if you’re worried about dropping the ball, don’t be. Katy Selmi can help. She’s got every bloomin’ thing you’ll need for your wedding, including peace of mind.

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the perfect fit When someone has to get love is in the air Things are looking up all dressed up with somewhere to go, a new clothing shop goes the extra mile to make sure they get there in style.

ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION Sauk Valley Weddings is a publication of Sauk Valley Media 113 S. Peoria Ave. | Dixon, IL 61021 815-284-2222 SALES: Jill Reyna MAGAZINE EDITOR & PAGE DESIGN: Rusty Schrader

“My shooting style produces images that reveal the intimate and authentic expressions of the love and commitment you share. Unguarded. Natural. Emotional.

The cherished images of a lifetime..” — From jonlarsonphotography.com

Articles and advertising are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of Sauk Valley Weddings may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

Ad contents is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. Sauk Valley Media cannot, and will not, be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services advertised in this publication.

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on the cover ...

Bride and groom Kayla and Patrick Shaulis of Oregon are shown in this photo from Jon Larson Photography in Dixon.

PUBLISHER: Jennifer Heintzelman

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for a photographer who’s taking wedding photos to a whole new level — a couple hundred feet off the ground.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Jon Larson Photography, call 815-757-2113 or email: jlphotos837@gmail.com. To see samples of his work, go to jonlarsonphotography.com W e d d i n g s

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banding together If you’re looking for help finding the perfect wedding ring, a Dixon jeweler can help. From the classics to the custom-made, the staff help you find a ring that you’ll fall in love with.

Falls could talk they’d have a lot of stories to tell. Today, the barn’s found new life, but it’s still telling stories — of infinite love.

INVITATIONS SBM.....................................................12

BEAUTY SALONS & DAY SPAS Polished Hair & Nail Salon.............45

PHOTOGRAPHY Onsite Photography........................ 23 Photography by Ashley Nares.......33 You In Photos by Nanc.................... 23

BRIDAL SHOWERS Amboy Community Center..............18 Dixon VFW..........................................13 Livengood’s Barn.............................52 Mahaffey’s On Main Street............... 3 Oak Lane of Oregon.........................30 Parties on Pope...............................46 Shady Oaks.........................................11 The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens.....31 The Loft at K’s Korner......................53 CAKES/SWEETS Baker Street......................................21 Woody’s Popcorn..............................41

do you take this cookie to be your wedded treat? I dough!

If you love cookies, you’ll be in good Company with a Dixon couple who whips up custom sweets that look too good to eat.

WEDDING VENDORS

Businesses that can help make your wedding day a success FLOWERS.........................32 MUSIC.............................. 61 PHOTOGRAPHERS............ 29 RINGS.............................. 40

TRAVEL............................. 41 TUXEDOS..........................22 VENUES......................48-52

CATERING SERVICES Baker Street......................................21 Creative Cuisine...............................18 CEREMONY SITES Barn on the Hill.................................41 Byron Forest Preserve.....................12 Deer Valley Banquets..................... 72 Dixon VFW..........................................13 Livengood’s Barn.............................52 Oak Lane of Oregon.........................30 Parties on Pope...............................46 Pine Creek Escape..............................7 Shady Oaks.........................................11 The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens.....31 The Loft at K’s Korner......................53 DECOR Sawdust ‘n’ Dreamz........................45 FLORISTS Flowers Etc........................................15 Selmi’s Weddings & Events............. 2 The Blue Violet................................. 27

DON’T FORGET ...

60-69

ACCOMMODATIONS Holiday Inn Express........................ 70

BRIDAL FAIR Sauk Valley Bridal Fair....................38

from cows to vows If the walls of barn in Rock

CAKES & SWEETS............ 59 CATERING........................ 65 DRESSES.......................... 15

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Tuxes, dresses, music, photographers, venues and more ... Weddings take a lot of planning, so here are a few lists to help make sure don’t forget anything.

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PORTABLE RESTROOMS Big John..............................................19 REAL ESTATE United Country Sauk Valley Realty.....21 REHEARSAL DINNERS Amboy Community Center..............18 Byron Forest Preserve.....................12 Deer Valley Banquets..................... 72 Dixon VFW..........................................13 Livengood’s Barn.............................52 Oak Lane of Oregon.........................30 Parties on Pope...............................46 The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens.....31 RECEPTION SITES Amboy Community Center..............18 Barn on the Hill.................................41 Byron Forest Preserve.....................12 Deer Valley Banquets..................... 72 Dixon VFW..........................................13 Livengood’s Barn.............................52 Mahaffey’s On Main Street............... 3 Oak Lane of Oregon.........................30 Parties on Pope...............................46 Pine Creek Escape..............................7 Shady Oaks.........................................11 The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens.....31 The Loft at K’s Korner......................53 RENTALS Midwest Tents & Events.................39 Nares Event Co.................................33 Selmi’s Weddings & Events............. 2 The Blue Violet................................. 27

HEALTH & FITNESS 7:24 Fitness on the Rock................... 6

TUXEDO RENTALS Flowers Etc........................................15 Kaleel’s.............................................. 37 Selmi’s Formal Wear......................... 2

INSURANCE AGENTS Country Financial.............................. 2

VIDEOGRAPHY Studio Nine.......................................33

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Reach Your Bridal Body

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Pick a size (see examples at right) and call, e-mail or stop by our office for pricing ... Sauk Valley Media, 113 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon (9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Friday) 815-632-2566 | celebration@saukvalley.com

QUARTER PAGE

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Place an announcement in the Celebrations section, appearing in Tuesday’s Telegraph and Daily Gazette.

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FIT

By Cody Cutter | Sauk Valley Media

STERLING — When Celeste Fernandez finds some free time at work, her thoughts invariably turn to her wedding. There are plans to be made and plenty to do. The guest list, reservations, food, and of course, finding a wedding dress.

It’s a good thing she works at a clothing store, and it’s a good thing she works with Carolitza Mendoza.

Mendoza owns CaroLitza’s, a store at Northland Mall that prides itself on helping customers look their best.

The store is stocked with clothing for practically any occasion, from casual to formal — blouses, skirts, dresses, cowboy hats, shoes, serapes, kids clothing — and if you don’t see what you’re looking for, don’t worry. Mendoza can find it for you. In fact, that’s what she really enjoys: finding that perfect fit for her customers.

CAROLITZA’S cont’d to page 10

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Carolitza’s owner Carolitza Mendoza (left) and designer Celeste Fernandez show off some of the dresses on display at the store.

“We try to get them to see as many dresses as they can, and different styles,” Mendoza said. “We’ll work with them in the fitting room to see what they like, and what colors they like. We try our best to give our input on what we think looks best on you.”

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

CAROLITZA’S cont’d from page 9 The store has stock on hand, but also has access to an endless inventory through the special orders it handles. Homecoming, prom, communions and quinceaneras, baptisms and more, CaroLitza’s can find the fashion you’re looking for.

Have a flower girl who needs fitted? A bevy of bridesmaids who need dresses? Come to CaroLitza’s.

Whether it’s something with glitter and glam, or something regal and refined, Mendoza will find what you’re looking for — and she’ll help lighten the load on your mind, too.

Just ask Fernandez, who’s been busy getting things lined up for her walk down the aisle. Mendoza has been helping her with her dream dresses.

“It’s a lot of stress that I won’t have on my back,” Fernandez said. “I won’t have that. I’m looking for what I want, I have all of the catalogs, I’ll go online, and if I can’t find something, she’ll help me.”

Mendoza sat down one day with Fernandez, who plans to tie to knot in in November, and had her write down ideas of what she and her bridesmaids and family members wanted to look like for the big day.

CAROLITZA’S cont’d to page 12 & 13

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Unforgettable Receptions

Celebrate your love with a spectacular event your guests will be talking about for years to come.

To learn more about our wedding packages, please contact our reception coordinator today.

We look forward to making your wedding day exceptional!

Weddings • Banquets • Rehearsal Dinners Engagement Parties • Showers wers ers er 18 Hole Public Golf Course

Located on Rt. 52 between Amboy & Sublette

815-849-5424 • www.shadyoakscc.com S a u k

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Sequined and sexy, dazzling and dressy, from formal to fun, and all in a rainbow of colors .... CaroLitza’s has a dress for any occasion, and if you don’t see what you’re looking for, don’t worry.

Mendoza can find it for you.

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

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7993 N River Rd, Byron, IL • (815) 234-8535 • www.byronforestpreserve.com

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CAROLITZA’S cont’d from page 10 That one-on-one with clients is something Carolitza likes doing.

It’s a marriage of teamwork and trust: listening to what they want, making suggestions, and then combining their ideas and inspiration with her talents to come up with the perfect dress.

“Since I was little, as far as I can remember, I said the day I get married, I want a long veil,” Fernandez recalled telling Mendoza.

Fernandez is like a lot of customers who walk through CaroLitza’s door. They have a dream dress in mind, but they need help turning that dream into a reality.

“We try to get them to see as many dresses as they can, and different styles,” Mendoza said. “We’ll work with them in the fitting room to see what they like, and what colors they like. We try our best to give our input on what we think looks best on you. In the end, it’s what they choose, but there have been a lot who trust us.”

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

CAROLITZA’S cont’d to page 14

Carolitza’s has a large selection of dresses for homecomings, proms, quinceaneras and other special events. Owner Carolitza Mendoza said she’s also working on expanding the shop’s selection of wedding wear. “We hope to have more in stock. Weddings weren’t in our initial plan, but since it’s come up with some ladies who have come in, we’re working on it.”

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The latest trends can be fun, but they can be fickle too. What’s hot today can leave you cold the next day. Mendoza encourages her customers to take their time and look around the shop — find a dress that speaks to them and makes a fashion statement that says “This is me!”

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

CAROLITZA’S cont’d from page 13 Mendoza opened the store in June, which was a few months later than originally planned, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that extra time allowed her to fine tune things to get the reception she wanted from customers. Even now, the store is a work in progress.

Wedding gowns aren’t part of the inventory yet, but that will change if there’s enough demand — but that doesn’t mean customers can’t get a wedding dress. She and Fernandez are more than happy to help customers special order a gown.

“We hope to expand to have more in stock,” Mendoza said. “Weddings weren’t in our initial plan, but since it’s come up with some ladies who have come in, we’re working on it.”

When the store first opened, Mendoza wasn’t quite sure how much of a demand there would be for wedding attire, but once word got out about her shop, more customers came in looking for help with their big day.

Mendoza tries to bring some big-city glamour to her inventory, while providing the kind of flexibility and personal service a small-town shop can offer.

“They’re not going to want to switch the bottom part or the top part if you don’t like it,” Fernandez said. “You have to get the one they have there, and

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that’s all. It’s more points for us: People can switch if they want to, and if they have something they dream of, and if they can’t find it, we can make it.”

Sometimes, that dream dress for a wedding is right in front of a customers’ eyes, like the one a customer saw in the store window. It wasn’t a wedding gown, but the customer fell in love with it anyway.

“She liked the sparkle and the simplicity,” Mendoza said, “and she could have fun walking around on the Vegas Strip with all of the sparkle.”

CaroLitza’s can also order other wedding items, such as rings and men’s dress shirts (if tuxedos aren’t called for).

In addition, Fernandez also has done artwork with centerpieces and backdrops. And if there’s something else a bride is looking for that the store doesn’t have, such as a seamstress, Mendoza and Fernandez know of several local people who can help.

“I’ll always let them know that if there’s something that’s not in the books, or here, I’ll do some research to try and find [what] they want,” Mendoza said. “I try my best to find you what you’re looking for.”

As for her big day, things are coming together for Fernandez.

“It’s exciting to have everything here,” she said.

“And if I change my mind, let me see the catalog again.”

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More info CaroLitza’s is located in Northland Mall, 2900 E. Lincolnway in Sterling. The store is open from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, or by appointment.

Find it on Facebook, email carolitzas1@gmail. com or call 815441-3185 for more information.

DRESSES Note: Some locations require appointments made online or by phone.

Alexis Kay Bridal Home studio, Cherry Valley 815-762-6558 Email: alexiskaydesigns@gmail.com Online: alexiskaydesigns.com and Facebook Caroline DeVillo Couture 930 W. Main St., St. Charles 773-307-6188 Online: carolinedevillo.com and Facebook

The Crystal Bride 207 W. State St., Geneva 630-397-5040 Online: crystalbride.com/ and Facebook, Instagram Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique 4703 N. University St., Peora 309-693-3830 Online: cloudninepeoria.com and Facebook, Instagram

CaroLitza’s 2900 E. Lincolnway, Suite 20F (Northland Mall), Sterling 815-441-3185 Online: www.carolitzas.com and on Facebook

David’s Bridal 5252 Elmore Ave., Davenport, Iowa 563-344-7902 or 713 S. Perryville Road, Rockford 815-227-5950 Online: davidsbridal.com and Facebook

Castronovo Bridal Shop 722 N. Main St., Rockford 815-962-4731 Email: castronovobridals@gmail.com Online: castronovobridal.com/ and Facebook

Great Hang-Ups Upscale consignment shop 613 S. Rockford Ave., Rockford 815-229-8500 Online: Facebook

Celebrate QC Find new, gently used and sample gowns 3203 Devils Glen Road, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-284-2410 Online: qccelebrate.business.site and Facebook Cheryl-Ann Bridals & Tuxedos 980 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa 563-582-6930 Online: cherylannbridals.net/ and Facebook, Instagram

Hope’s Bridal & Prom 930 E. River Drive, Davenport, Iowa 563-324-5219 Online: hopesbridal.com and Facebook I Do Bridal 995 Galena Square Drive, Galena 815-777-2507 Online: idobridalllc.com and Facebook, Instagram

Marien Mae Bridal Boutique & Events 749 First St., LaSalle 815-220-0844 Email: info@marienmae.com Online: marienmae.com and Facebook, Instagram Sara Grace 5950 E. State St., Rockford 815-398-9896 Online: saragrace.com/ and Facebook, Instagram Savy’s Chic Bridal Boutique 111 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon 815-677-9579 Email: hello@savyschic.com Online: savyschic-bridal-boutique.wedding/ and Facebook, Instagram Storybook Ending Bridal Salon 704 Sixth Ave., DeWitt, Iowa 563-659-3983 Email: storybookbridal@iowatelecom.net Online: shopforbridals.com and Facebook, Instagram Vintage Chic Bridal Boutique 400 Bluff St., Dubuque, Iowa 563-581-9945 Online: vintagechicbridalboutique.com/ and Facebook, Instagram Zazou’s Bridal Boutique 955 Washington St., Dubuque, Iowa 536-213-2049 Online: zazousbridalandtuxedos.com/ and Facebook, Instagram

Saying I Do? • Fresh or Silk flowers to create custom Bouquets, Boutonnieres, & Ceremony/Reception Arrangements • Tuxedos by

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ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

By Cody Cutter | Sauk Valley Media

ROCK FALLS — As wedding plans start to take shape, the checklist starts to grow … and grow … and grow.

What kind of flowers should we get?

What will the groom wear?

How should we decorate the tables?

Where can I get help??

OK, take a deep breath. Pick up the phone and call Katy Selmi. She’ll be happy to help. For her, weddings are a labor of love.

Selmi is the smiling face behind the counter at Selmi’s Florist, Bridal and Special Events in downtown Rock Falls, her one-stop shop for just about anything wedding related, and it’s her job to put a smile on her clients’ face, too — and with nearly 20 years experience and hundreds of special events under her belt, she’s gotten pretty good at it.

From tabletop pieces to tuxedos, place cards to plates, and more, Selmi’s Bridal owner Katy Selmi can help make youre dream wedding come true.

SELMI’S cont’d to page 18

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SELMI’S cont’d from page 17 Whether it’s flowers, mens formal wear, wedding planning, rental accessories, linens, or decor and more, Selmi can help.

“That’s my favorite part of it all, meeting with them, finding out what their dream wedding looks like, and then making it a reality,” Selmi said. “Every weekend we just do that, and to watch them make that dream come true, that’s what I truly love about it: Sending them down the aisle, all of the excitement of the day, and just helping them not be so stressed out about it, too.”

Selmi has been in the business 18 years, starting with flowers and gradually working her way up to almost all the facets of couple’s big day. Recently, she added men’s formal wear to the fold. The need for it, she said, became apparent after the closure of Seno Formal Wear in Sterling. Flowers and formal wear isn’t an uncommon combination for flower vendors in larger markets, Selmi said, so she decided to duplicate the business model here.

SELMI’S cont’d to page 19

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Toto, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore — we’re in Rock Falls, where there’s no place like home for grooms to find shoes that’ll add some sparkle to their outfit, like these sequin-covered Bravo! loafers at Selmi’s. Love has already put a song in your heart, so why not put a spring in your step by finishing off your formalwear with some fancy footwear?

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Julie Scribner Michelle Neubauer

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SELMI’S cont’d from page 18 Since adding menswear last March, she quickly learned the ins and outs of the business. Michael Kors and Allure are among top-line brands she offers, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. Among the current trends: suits in navy, gray, or charcoal.

“I had never needed to get into it because there was already a niche in the community, and it was a whole other avenue to open up,” Selmi said. “It’s different because you’re measuring people and doing things that you have never done before.”

While Selmi’s has become a bigger part of people’s wedding, the seed that started it all — flowers — remain near and dear to her heart, and she knows her stuff. What’s trending right now? Ask Katy. She’ll tell you more neutral colors, such as greens and whites and blush pinks, are popular right now.

“I was just doing flowers at the time, and it just kind of gradually grew as you’re buying more product,” Selmi said. “It gradually became a one-stop shop, so you didn’t have to go somewhere to grab linens and chair covers, and then somewhere for your flowers, and somewhere for backdrops.”

The Selmi name is well known in the

area. The family grows and sells fresh produce from their family farm east of Rock Falls — pumpkins and sweet corn are among customer favorites — and that knowhow of nature helped Katy in the flower business. She earned a degree in greenhouse management from the University of Illinois in 2003 and immediately began a career in floral design, earning many awards and certifications through the years, including the highest certification attainable from the American Institute of Floral Designers.

“There are a lot of letters after my name,” Selmi says, but those letters show just how much dedication and work she’s put into her profession.

The rise of social media has been the biggest change in wedding planning from the time Selmi started in business; many bridesto-be have brought favorite images and visual ideas from websites such as Pinterest and Etsy to help in planning. When you’ve made up your mind, don’t hesitate to get plans coordinated, Selmi said, as 2022 is shaping up to be a year chock full of weddings, after the pandemic put a lot of plans on hold in 2021.

SELMI’S cont’d to page 20

The Elegant Way to Go. 3 Styles of Formal Restroom Units

Since 1975

BIG JOHN 815-946-2813 SM-ST1946632

www.bigjohnusa.com S a u k

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PHOTOS: ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Go ahead: Tie one on for your wedding, and add a little pop to your tux with a selection of neckwear at Selmi’s that come in a variety of patterns and colors. Even with nearly 20 years in the event planning business under her belt, owner Katy Selmi is still picking up new skills. She recently began offering formalwear rentals after a local tuxedo shop closed its doors. “I had never needed to get into it because there was already a niche in the community, and it was a whole other avenue to open up,” she said. “It’s different because you’re measuring people and doing things that you have never done before.”

SELMI’S cont’d from page 19 When clients meet with Selmi to start planning their wedding, she helps them untangle all the myriad matrimonial details and come up with a plan, from the basics to those “things that you don’t think about,” she said. Rehearsal and day-of coordination services are available, and they come with the experience of having to think on her feet as last-minute additions, new ideas — or even the unexpected and unwelcome surprises — are thrown into the mix.

“When you put 200 to 300 people in a room, there’s a lot of detail and a lot of things to work out,” Selmi said. It helps “if they have someone that knows about all of the aspects — what the tables are supposed to look like, who the vendors are, or if there’s an issue with the clothes — we do it all.”

Want to utilize Selmi’s for more than just one aspect of the wedding? Discount bundle packages are available to help keep costs down.

“It’s really good to have an extra hand or two that day, because when you really think about it, throwing a party that big, it’s usually the only time in your life that you’re doing that,” she said.

It’s not just local residents who’ve come to trust Selmi; out-of-towners who’ve had their wedding in the Sauk Valley have turned to Selmi too.

“A lot of girls like to do those things themselves, but they also want a little guidance on what vendors are in town,” Selmi said. “There are a lot of girls that come from the suburbs, or are coming back home to get married — because we have a lot of good banquet facilities in town and it’s less expensive to do it here.”

SELMI’S cont’d to page 21

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More info

Selmi’s Florist, Bridal and Special Events, 223 First Ave. in Rock Falls, is open by appointment.

Find Selmi’s Flower Shop on Facebook, go to selmibridal. com, or call or text 815-622-8040 for more information.

ALEX T. PASCHAL/ APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Selmi’s can help with wedding decor, too. The shop rents items big and small for your special day, like these centerpiece items for guest tables.

SELMI’S cont’d from page 20 Want to see some of the weddings Selmi has had a hand in, maybe pick up a few ideas? Check out her blog at selmibridal. com/what-are-we-doing.

Selmi has seen many changes in weddings and special events through the years, but one

thing hasn’t changed: her passion for helping her customers.

“It keeps my creative mind flowing,” Selmi said. “After 18 years, I still love to do it. There have been a lot of vendors that have come and gone in this industry, and I still find joy in doing it, so I keep doing it.”

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TUXEDOS Bell’s Clothing Store 603 LaSalle St., Ottawa 815-434-4854 Online: ibellsclothing.com

Marien Mae Bridal Boutique & Events 749 First St., LaSalle 815-220-0844 Email: info@marienmae.com Online: marienmae.com and Facebook, Instagram

Boegel’s Mens Wear 412 Second St., Clinton, Iowa 563-242-3045 Online: Facebook Catronovo Bridal Shop 722 N. Main St., Rockford 815-962-4731 Email: castronovobridals@gmail.com Online: castronovobridal.com/ and Facebook Celebrate QC Tux rentals 3203 Devils Glen Road, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-284-2410 Online: qccelebrate.business.site and Facebook Cheryl-Ann Bridals & Tuxedos 980 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa 563-582-6930 Online: cherylannbridals.net/ and Facebook, Instagram

David’s Bridal 5252 Elmore Ave., Davenport, Iowa 563-344-7902 or 713 S. Perryville Road, Rockford 815-227-5950 Online: davidsbridal.com and Facebook Ducky’s Formal Wear 1721 Fifth Ave., Moline 309-797-9889 Email: duckysqc@gmail.com Online: duckysformalwear.com and Facebook Kaleel’s Clothing & Printing 704 N. Galena Ave., Dixon 815-677-9098 Email: kaleel36@comcast.net Online: kaleels.com or Facebook, Instagram

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Milroy’s Formal Wear 2600 Dodge St., Dubuque, Iowa 563-584-2041 Online: milroystuxedos.com and Facebook, Instagram Moments Tux Shop 4332 State St., Bettendorf, Iowa 563-888-1695 Online: momentstuxshop. com and Facebook, Instagram Sara Grace 5950 E. State St., Rockford 815-398-9896 Online: saragrace.com/ and Facebook, Instagram

Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique 4703 N. University St., Peoria 309-693-3830 Online: cloudninepeoria.com and Facebook, Instagram

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Men’s Wearhouse 4770 Elmore Ave., Davenport, Iowa 563-359-4238 or 6250 Mulford Village Drive, Rockford 815-397-7949 Online: menswearhouse.com/ and Facebook, Instagram

Sauk Valley Cleaners 83 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon 815-288-1322 Online: sauk-valley-cleaners-inc.business.site/ Selmi’s Florist, Bridal and Special Events 223 First Ave., Rock Falls 815-622-8040 Online: selmibridal.com or find Selmi’s Flower Shop on Facebook That Guy’s Secret 105 Marquette St., Suite B, LaSalle 815-250-0928 Online: thatguyssecret.com and on Facebok Unique Formal Wear 720 La Salle St., Ottawa 815-324-9406 Email: Uniqueformalwear@gmail.com Online: jimsformalwear.com/stores/il/ottawa/uniqueformal-wear and on Facebook

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Zazou’s Bridal Boutique & Tuxedo 955 Washington St., Dubuque, Iowa 536-213-2049 Online: zazousbridalandtuxedos.com/ and Facebook, Instagram

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DRONES cont’d to page 26

BETTENDORF, Iowa – When it comes to taking wedding photos, Rick Jennisch likes to have an extra set of eyes — and he likes to have them in the sky.

Jennisch is a Quad City-based photographer whose gotten in on the ground level, and beyond, of the increasingly popular trend of drone photography at weddings. He’s been in the photography business for nearly a quarter of a century, and the high-flying technology is the latest addition to his camera bag of tricks that he uses to capture those picture-perfect moments for clients.

“It gives the client a whole new perspective on their venue, and an aerial shot of their ceremony they wouldn’t have had from the ground,” Jennisch said. “There’s so much more you can do with a drone than you can do with a [typical] camera.”

By Cody Cutter | Sauk Valley Media

DRONES cont’d from page 25 He had thought about utilizing drones for a while, but the regulatory hoops he had to jump through initially turned him off. But the more he thought about it, the more he began to see it would be worth the effort.

“The creative outlet gives you so many new compositions and a unique perspective,” Jennisch said. “No one else in the area was doing drone wedding photography, so I thought I wanted to be the first one to do it and offer it.”

He became certified last February, and today he uses his trusty Autell Robotics EVO II drone to give clients a bird’s-eye view of their wedding.

Armed with a compact camera in its belly, the nimble little machines can zip in and out of places that would have been impossible to get to before, giving customers the big picture or zooming in for an up-close shot. The Autell is great for stability and sharpness, Jennisch said.

Drone technology has improved significantly in the past decade — with drones that are smaller and lightweight using cameras that can capture much more detail — and the high-flying hightech tool is only getting better. Drones can capture stunning images that offer a big-picture perspective of the wedding.

Guests can gather on the lawn to spell out a special message. Emotional moments that wouldn’t have been possible to get from the ground can also be captured, like a view of the bride and her father hiding on one side of the house while the groom waits to see her at the altar — all in one shot.

Drone shots provide a contrast between the intimacy of ground-level photos and the epic grandeur of an aerial shot.

While the drone can only go so far, Jennisch has no such limitations. He’ll go anywhere for love. He shoots in and around the Quad Cities, including the Sauk Valley, but also does destination weddings — “anywhere in the U.S. or internationally,” his website says.

ne for Rick Jennisch takes his dro in dio stu his of a buzz in front the es giv “It downtown Bettendorf. e ctiv client a whole new perspe ial shot on their venue, and an aer uldn’t of their ceremony they wo said. he ” , have had from the ground do can “There’s so much more you do with a with a drone than you can [typical] camera.”

CODY CUTTER/ OM CCUTTER@SAUKVALLEY.C

DRONES cont’d to page 27

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DRONES cont’d from page 26 While flying drones can be fun, operating them is not for everyone, and there are limitations to where they can be flown. Jennisch has his Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, which allows him to operate a drone, having studied FAA regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying them.

The test isn’t an easy one, Jennisch said, one that involves not only the physics of flying, but also some meteorology, air cartography, and drone safety.

If a prospective couple is looking for drone wedding phoJennisch said “drone tography, they will want to make wedding photography has sure that the photographer, opened up a lot of new and even their videographer, is wedding photography licensed by the Federal Aviacompositions,” tion Administration, Jennisch like this shot. said, and that the drone also is PHOTO COURTESY insured and FAA-licensed.

HY RICK JENNISH PHOTOGRAP DRONES cont’d to page 28 & 30

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It used to be that unless you had a helicopter handy, you would have been hard pressed to get a shot like the ones pictures here, but drones have changed all that. Now you can get a bird’s-eye view of your entire wedding scene, let you and your partner pose for a shot in someplace special, or you can just lay back and say “cheeese!”.

Jennisch said “it’s been a blast capturing wedding photos from a completely new viewpoint.”

PHOTOS COURTESY RICK JENNISH PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY Avina Photography Lemont 630-863-1006 Online: avinaphotography.com and Facebook, Instagram

Lifeworks Photography Studio 5411 S. Brookstone Drive, Rochelle 815-561-7131 Email: photo@lifeworksimaging.com Online: lifeworksimaging.com and Facebook

Setchell Studio Photography 723 Washington St., Mendota 815-538-4444 Email: justin@setchellstudio.com Online: setchellstudio.com and Facebook

B. Adams Photography Byron 815-601-7659 Online: badamsphotography.com

MDR Photography — Brooke Slusser Davenport, Iowa 815-501-8846 Online: mdrphotography.net Facebook, Instagram

Brett Paul Photography Sycamore 815-762-2390 Email: Brettpaulphotography@outlook.com Online: brettpaulphotography.com and Facebook, Instagram

Mindy Joy Photography Rockford 815-985-4005 Email: mindy@mindyjoyphotography.com Online: mindyjoyphotography.com and Facebook, Instagram

Slater Photography and Videography Davenport, Iowa 815-631-3438 Online: slaterphotographyandvideography.com and Facebook

By Mari Photography Dixon 815-677-2187 Email: contact@bymariphotography.com Online: bymariphotography.com and Facebook, Instagram Cadenza Photos & Imaging Davenport, Iowa 309-236-1259 Online: cadenzaphotos.com and Facebook, Instagram Dan Royer Photography Dixon 815-284-9832 Online: danroyerphoto.com Grot Imaging Studio — Jim Grot 1119 Palmyra St., Dixon 815- 284-3211 Email: jim@grosis.com Online: grotis.com and Facebook Jon Larson Photography 1140 E. Flagg Road, Oregon 815-757-2113 Online: jonlarsonphotography.com/ and Facebook, Instagram Just Cause Photography — Suzanne Paul Ashton 815-440-7982 Email: suzannepual@justcausephotography.com Online: justcausephotography.com and Facebook LAR Photography St. Charles 847-370-3289 Email: larphotography1@gmail.com Online: lar-photography.com

Onsite Photography Rock Falls, 815-716-3282 email: ayonk@photosbyonsite.com Online: photosbyonsite.com and Facebook Pam Cooley Photos Peoria 309-219-3686 Email: pam@pamcooleyphotos.com Online: pamcooleyphotos.com and Facebook, Instagram Photography By Ashley Nares Sterling (815) 535-3214 nareseventco@gmail.com Online: www.nareseventco.com and Facebook

Steveo Studios Rock Falls 815-622-8177 Email: steveostudios@yahoo.com Online: steveostudios.webstarts.com and Facebook Stone + Sparrow Studio Videographer Savanna 563-542-3666 Email: briennaleej@gmail.com Online: Facebook You in Photos by Nanc Inc. 1400 First Ave., Suite C Rock Falls 815-718-5136 Online: youinphotosbynanc.zenfolio.com and Facebook, Instagram

Photos by Tara Marie Sterling 815- 622-8147 Email: tara@ photosbytaramarie.com Online: photosbytaramarie. com and Facebook Photography by Cindy Dixon 815-440-3925 Email: weidmancindy@ yahoo.com Online: photosbycindy. net and Facebook Rick Jennisch Photography 1815 Grant St., Bettendorf, Iowa 563-345-4006 Online: rickjennisch.com and Facebook

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DRONES cont’d from page 29

More info

Find Rick Jennisch Photography via social media on Facebook, Instagram (@rickjennischphoto) and Pinterest (@rickjennisch).

Go to rickjennisch.com, email rick@rickjennisch.com or call 563-345-4006 for arrangements, appointments or for more information.

Visiting the Quad Cities? Stop by Jennisch's photography studio at 1815 Grant St. in Bettendorf, Iowa.

“I’ll tell my clients that there are two things we have to do before we can do drone photography,” Jennisch said. “The weather conditions have to be right … and you have to get FAA approval for where you’re flying.”

“I think most brides and grooms don’t even know that there are rules,” he said. “If you do it commercially, and you’re getting paid, that’s commercial work. The law says that if you’re doing commercial work, you have to have that Part 107.”

“You really have to go down a checklist before you can fly,” Jennisch said, but the rules are there for a reason, Jennisch said: to keep everyone safe.

Jennisch introduced drone photography in his wedding packages last year, and he said he’s been getting a growing number of inquiries about it. With several wedding cancellations in 2020 due to the pandemic, it created a logjam of sorts in the latter half of Jennisch’s 2021 schedule. It was a busy year, but Jennisch said he was pleased with how popular the drone photography turned out to be and how pleased couples were with the results.

“They’ve had fun with it and think the drone is pretty cool,” he said.

As drone photography grows in popularity, Jennisch said he’s enjoying the new creative outlet for his talents, and he’s glad he added the service to his portfolio of products.

Jennisch works with fellow photographer Dee Schroeder, who’s been photographing weddings with him for over 6 years. She also shoots maternity sessions, newborns and babies at the Bettendorf studio and on location. ​“Getting to be part of two of the most important events in people’s lives, weddings and babies, is really a privilege to me!” she says on the studio’s website.

DRONES cont’d to page 31

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DRONES cont’d from page 30 It’s a sentiment echoed by Sure, you could line Jennisch, who loves help’em up for a photo — ing couples tell their story or, you could round as they start a new chapter ’em up and have them in life. He’s shot more than reach for the sky.

800 weddings throughout the PHOTO: RICK JENNISCH region and nation, and has PHOTOGRAPHY even been called to do some international weddings; he has one planned for Cancun this year.

His photography style is akin to photojournalism. His images tend to rely more on dynamic motion as opposed to static, posed shots.

A good wedding photographer, he says, will anticipate the memorable moments during a wedding and capture them as they happen. It’s an approach summed up by one of his favorite quotes, from Alfred Eisenstaedt, a photojournalist best known for taking the iconic picture of a Navy sailor kissing a woman in Times Square during a V-J Day celebration in 1945: “All photographers have to do is find and catch the story-telling moment” — and for Jennisch, going above and beyond is just part of the job of catching those moments and telling stories that are worth a thousand words.

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DEININGER FLORAL SHOP 1 W. Main St., Freeport 815-232-6191 Online: deiningerfloralshop.com and Facebook

BEHRZ BLOOMZ 2503 N. Locust, Sterling 815-625-5116 Online: behrzbloomz.com and Facebook, Instagram BLOOMS ON ELM 14 Elm Place, Princeton 815-915-8537 Online: bloomsonelm.net and Facebook CHERRY BLOSSOM FLORIST 3304 N. Main St., Rockford 815-654-1188 Online: cherryblossomflorist.com and Facebook CLARA JOYCE FLOWERS 13493 E. Blair Hill Road, Stockton Email: clarajoyceflowers@gmail.com Online: clarajoyceflowers.com and Facebook, Instagram CLINTON FLORAL SHOP 1912 Manufacturing Drive, Clinton, Iowa 563-242-2651 Online: clintonfloralshop.com COUNTY MARKET 210 W. Third. St., Sterling Sterling, IL 61081 815-622-0180 or 1380 N Galena Ave., Dixon 815-288-2112 Online: mycountymarket.com and Facebook, Instagram COUNTRY FLORAL 101 N. Division Ave., Polo 815-946-3952 Online: countryfloralpolo.com

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WILLEY FLOWER COMPANY 115 S. Hennepin, Dixon 779-861-4848 Online: willeyflowercompany.com and Facebook, Instagram

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WEEDS FLORALS, DESIGNS & DÉCOR 732 N. Galena Ave., Dixon 815-288-3041 Online: weedsdesignsdixon.com and Facebook

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When Monica Druen needed a helping hand designing her custom wedding ring, she turned to Trein’s Jewelry, where she worked with designer Eric Brantley. One thing that changed during the process was the center stone. Druen had wanted a fire opal, but that might not have held up down the road. Eric suggested an orange sapphire, a harder stone. “She’s going to wear the ring every day, so it’s going to need to be durable,” he said.

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@ SHAWMEDIA.COM

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Need a hand finding the perfect wedding ring? A Dixon jeweler can help. The staff prides itself on working with clients to take something old, something new, or a little bit of both, and creating a one-of-a-kind ring that a couple can fall in love with STORY BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE

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ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Getting a ring on her finger helped Monica Druen get her foot in the door at Trein’s Jewelry when owners Eric and Judy Brantley were looking to hire someone. “I’m really starting to appreciate the whole process, and I really enjoy working with the customers, who are awesome. It’s really exciting for me to learn and have fun,” she said.

onica Druen’s search for a wedding ring has come full circle.

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ia

utter Cody C lley M Va

TREIN’S cont’d to page 37

or y By St

Sauk

A few months ago, she walked into Trein’s Jewelry looking for a symbol of the love and the life she would share with her fiance. Today, she’s back at Trein’s — but this time she’s on the other side of the counter.

Druen is working at the family-owned shop that’s been around for more than 138 years, and now she’s the one who’s helping customers sparkle and shine while learning the trade that have kept owners Eric and Judy Brantley in business for decades. They own the shop with Eric’s mom, Linda, herself a jeweler for nearly 60 years.

“I’ve learned about how there is so much detail in a ring, and what goes into it,” Druen said. “I’m really starting to appreciate the whole process, and I really enjoy working with the customers, who are awesome. It’s really exciting for me to learn and have fun.”

TREIN’S cont’d from page 36 Rings can be bought just as they come, or, like a growing number of orders these days, they can be customized.

That’s where Druen’s journey from customer to customer service began. She wanted something unique, and her fiance, Randy Queckborner, told her Trein’s could make it happen. She stopped by the shop in February, and she hasn’t stopped coming back since.

Her first decision was what stone and color would be front and center on her ring. Orange is Druen’s favorite color, so she initially wanted a fire opal type; however, Eric had her consider the benefits of an orange sapphire, which is a more durable stone.

“He showed me the stone, and I had never heard of it,” Druen said.

“I was still deciding, and he showed me an opal and a padparadscha, rein’s Jewelry owners Judy and I was just amazed with this one. It was amazing, just brilliant!” and Eric Brantley met More conversations and consultations ensued, and after meticumore than just a customer lous planning and precision work, Eric brought Druen’s ideas to life when Monica Druen walked — and one of those ideas had a familiar ring to it. through their doors; they Her stone is at a 28-degree angle set off by an array of small met a future member of their diamonds from her mother’s wedding ring. team. When the time came “We wanted to make the side diamonds, to make it so that it to hire someone at their shop, had a lot of sparkle every direction you look at it,” Eric said.

“Judy and I kept thinking about “We were able to make that curve and slant, and to counter it, and my mind kept going back that we put diamonds in the inside of the curve as well. to Monica,” Eric said. “Both her and There’s a lot of shine no matter how you look at it.” [fiancé] Randy are wonderful people.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

TREIN’S cont’d to page 38

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TREIN’S cont’d from page 37

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

ome men are moving away from the basic band and adding a little flair to their ring finger, incorporating different designs and colors into their ring.

Duren said Eric took the diamonds out of her mom’s ring and came up with “an awesome design. I wanted something that was delicate looking, and he came up with the idea to add the little diamonds along the inside of the ring, which just made it so much more brilliant.”

As far as trends, yellow gold rings are making a comeback after white gold became more dominant in the 1990s. Whites remain popular but more yellows, such as well-accented rose golds, are popping up more, Eric said.

Another growing trend has to do with the settings. Prong-set, where the diamond is secured by prongs, is becoming more popular than channel-set, where the stones are inside a channel in the ring. Stones in a channel setting tend to hold up better, which is good for people who work in a rough setting, while prong-sets have a bit more sparkle to them, owing to the how they’re held in place, allowing the stone to take center stage.

TREIN’S cont’d to page 39

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ruen displays one of her favorite bracelets at the store.

In addition to rings, the shop also sells earrings, necklaces, watches, bracelets, art glass, cuff links, flasks, tie bars and more.

More info

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

TREIN’S cont’d from page 38 “People are liking that it looks like there’s more diamond,” Judy said. “We’re trending more toward the prong setting.”

The Brantleys also repair, engrave and appraise jewelry, and routinely make international trips to find more fine jewelry to bring to the area. The store also carries a wide selection of eastern European art glass, watches, pearls, necklaces, earrings, and stainless steel accessories such as

tie bars and cuff links.

Having a knowledge of current trends is just one way jewelers help customers.

There’s a lot more to learn, and Druen is an eager student. Working with the Brantleys on her own ring gave Druen a better understanding of how the process works, but her personality and approach to the job helped seal the deal when it came time for the Brantleys to hire someone.

Trein’s Jewelry, 201 W. First St. in downtown Dixon, is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday.

Find it on Facebook, go to treinsjewelry. com or call 815-2846626 for more information.

TREIN’S cont’d to page 40

1300 S. 7th St., Dekalb, IL 60115

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The team effort behind making Druen’s ring proved to be a winning combination, and she began working at Trein’s in May. “Judy and I kept thinking about it, and my mind kept going back to Monica,” Eric said. “Both her and Randy are wonderful people. They appreciated the whole process of how we were, and how we got to where we were going. They wanted exactly what we offered, and it showed me that she appreciates what we do.”

“It was an amazing experience, having wound up working here,” Druen said, and the job — like her ring — “was just a really good fit for me.”

Albert’s Jewelers 128 Fifth Ave. S, Clinton, Iowa 563-242-8334 Online: albertsjewelers.net and Facebook Becky Beck’s Jewelry Store 303 E. Hillcrest Drive, DeKalb 815-758-3800 Online: beckybecksjewelrystore.com and Facebook, Instagram Bruce Jewelers 631 S. Main St., Princeton 815-875-2289 Email: brucejewelers@frontier.com Online: brucejewelers.com and Facebook Busch Jewelers 1960 Pawlisch Drive, Rockford 815-332-2222 Online: buschjewelry.com and Facebook Clodius & Co. Jewelers 252 S. Mulford Road, Rockford 815-227-1200 Online: clodiusco.com and Facebook D& D Jewelers 1739 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore 815-895-3377 Online: ddjewelers.com and Facebook Davidson Jewelers 153 Avenue of the Cities, East Moline 309-755-9233 Online: davidsonjewelers.net

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TREIN’S cont’d from page 39

rein’s Jewelry has been in business nearly 140 years, and it’s been in the Brantley family for nearly 60 of those years. During that time, a lot of trends have come and gone — and come again, and the shop has changed with the time, but the one thing that’s remained constant is the family’s commitment to customer service.

JEWELERY Don’s Jewelry 200 Main Ave., Clinton, Iowa 563-242-2663 Email: sheralyn@donsjewelryclinton.com Online: donsjewelryclinton.com and Facebook, Instagram

Frank Jewelers 19 E. Stephenson St., Freeport 815-235-3169 Email: contactus@frankjewelers.com Online: frankjewelers.com and Facebook, Instagram J Kamin Jewelers 250N. Mulford Road, Rockford 815-226-0898 Online: jkaminjewelers.com and Facebook Jewelry By Christopher 6585 Lexus Drive, Rockford 815-227-5500 Online: jewelrybychristopher.com and Facebook Kay Jewelers Sterling Commons, 4204 E. Lincolnway, Suite C, Sterling 815-535-0437 Online: kay.com and Facebook, Instagram Necker’s Jewelers 4007 E. 53rd St., Suite 100, Davenport, Iowa 563-359-3941 Online: neckersjewelers.com and Facebook

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Quinn’s Jewelry Store 426 Lincoln Highway, Rochelle 815-562-2426 Online: jewelconnect.com/8155622426 and Facebook Rogers& Hollands Jewelers Cherry Vale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford 815-332-3400 Online: hrogersandhollands.com/cherryvale-mall and Facebook, Instagram Soto’s Jewelry 3504 E. State St., Rockford 815-962-5515 Online: https://sotosjewelry.com and Facebook, Instagram

Trein’s Jewelry 201 W. First St., Dixon 815-284-6626 Email: judy@treinsjewelry.com or linda@treinsjewelry.com Online: Facebook Venier Jewelers 117 W. First St., Dixon 815-284-3034 Email: anthony_venier@me.com Online: venierjewelers.com and Facebook Zavius Jewelers 2636 McFarland Road, Rockford 815-654-4000 Email: info@zavius.com Online: zavius.com and Facebook

TRAVEL BEACH GAL TRAVEL SERVICES 1510 Prophetstown Road, Suite E, Rock Falls 815-716-8722 Online: beachgaltravels.com and Facebook, Instagram CAMELOT WORLD TRAVEL 3011 N. Perryville Road, Rockford 815-633-2200 Online: camelotworldtravel.com and Facebook DESTINATIONS TRAVEL SERVICES 4015 E. Lincolnway, Suite C, Sterling 815-625-3500 Online: destinationstravelservices.com and Facebook Email: avril@destinationstravelservices.com GATEWAY TRAVEL & CRUISE 343 Fourth Ave., Clinton, Iowa 563-242-1025

Online: gatewaytc.com and Facebook

PICTURE PERFECT

GULLIVER’S TRAVEL Southpark Mall, 4500 16th St., Moline 309-762-8800 or Duck Creek, 874 Middle Road, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-359-6500 Online: gulliverstravel.com and Facebook

1315 30th St., Rock Island

LINDSTROM TRAVEL 5970 Guilford Road, Rockford 815-398-8888 Online: lindstromtravel.com and Facebook KDM TRAVEL AGENCY 3554 Shady Ridge Court, Davenport, Iowa 563-324-3201 Online: kdmtravel.com and Facebook

WE SPECIALIZE IN EXCEPTIONAL WEDDINGS & RECEPTIONS

Email: cruisemaster18@yahoo.com Online: pictureperfecttravelqc.com and Facebook SCUBA ADVENTURES 1104 State St., Bettendorf, Iowa 563-324-8771 Online: scubaadventureqca.com and Facebook TRAVEL CONSULTANTS OF DIXON INC. 735 N. Galena Ave., Suite 120, Dixon 815-284-6681 Online: travelconsultantsofdixon.com and Facebook

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or nearly 90 years, the Allen family farmstead has been a familiar sight to travelers leaving or heading west out of Rock Falls.

It’s easy to see why passersby would think it’s just another farm dotting the rural landscape near Route 30 and Prophetstown Road, and for many years it was — but all it took to change that was one couple to look at it and see something different.

It was nearly 10 years ago and a pair of young lovers from the area were looking for the perfect place to get hitched, and they found it at the Allen family farm.

By Cod y Karen Allen Cutter Rogers was happy Sauk Valley to oblige, and Media that one wedding helped pave the way for many more after Rogers found a new life for her family’s farmstead. A little work here, a little work there, here some work, there some work, and the old Allen farm was transformed into a new special events venue: The Barn at Allen Acres.

About 150 events have taken place on the grounds since 2014, many of them weddings — and what better place for couples to begin a life growing together than a farm?

“I call it the little farm that could,” Rogers said. “It’s amazing when I think of it. Our clients are very happy and gush about how wonderful the property is, how well suited for events it is, and how the property has a calming, peaceful feel to it. It’s a relaxed environment.

But you can also dress it up. It’s versatile.”

BARN cont’d to page 44

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That peaceful, easy feeling was something that was part of Rogers and her sister, Kayla’s, life growing up on the farm some 40 to 50 years ago, she said. They never thought about turning it into a business. They eventually left the farm: Karen worked as a flight attendant for several years and now lives in suburban Crystal Lake with her husband, Chris. The couple comes back to town to help with arrangements for prospective parties and to maintain the place.

“I love that the farm has a purpose and that it brings so much happiness to people,” Rogers said. “I enjoy meeting all the engaged couples and learning the various circumstances, mishaps, coincidences, adventures and friendships and family bonds that brought them together. I enjoy getting to know couples during their planning stage and how unique every couple is.”

The two-story barn has a 26-foot ceiling, exposed beams, original wood siding and original barn doors.

Rentals include the 4-acre grounds, barn, pavilion, gazebo and fire pit area. The barn’s capacity for the upstairs stage is 200 guests, who can make their way up a set of stairs near the barn’s entrance; or there is a newly installed lift in the back of the barn for those who are handicapped. The bridal party has a separate staircase of their own, entering through the back to make their way down the center aisle. The lower level reception area can hold 173 guests, and it includes restrooms and a small bar area.

BARN cont’d to page 45

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

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PHOTO: THEBARNATALLENACRES.COM

BARN cont’d from page 43

“I call it the little farm that could,” said Karen Allen Rogers, who owns The Barn at Allen Acres. Converting the former dairy operation into an events venue, while retaining its original look and feel, wasn’t easy — it took a major rehab — but the results were worth it. Today, that farmstead is a popular spot for weddings and other events. Rustic wedding locales have grown in popularity in recent years, and farms have been a go-to place for couples to walk down the barnwood aisle.

BARN cont’d from page 44 Outside, the string-lit patio behind the barn has a rustic outdoor bar, and the gazebo can also be used as a wedding stage.

An outdoor pavilion, the newest feature on the premises, can seat 220 people with tables and chairs.

Event packages include 14-hour blocks on either Friday, Saturday or Sunday; or there is a 3-day package that includes the use of house for overnight stays. Event insurance is required for all deals.

The furnished house has dressing rooms for the bride, the bridesmaids, the groom and his groomsmen. It has five bedrooms (four upstairs — two with kingsized beds — and a master bedroom on the main level), a living room, kitchen and dining room, all featuring country decor. One of the pictures in the dining room is an aerial view of the homestead from the 1950s.

BARN cont’d to page 46

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

The bathrooms at The Barn at Allen Acres are a marriage of the past and present, with some pieces repurposed from the barn combined with modern fixtures.

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ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

The bride and groom may be a match made in heaven, but that doesn’t mean the seating has to be the same. Guests can take a seat in the variety of different chairs at Allen Acres.

BARN cont’d from page 45 Guests are responsible for their own food, drinks, decorations and entertainment, but Rogers will help find vendors and hotel accommodations for out-of-town guests.

“It’s very fun to see all of their planning come to life on their wedding day,” Rogers said.

The Allens moved to the property around 1934, about 10 years after the farm was built. Growing up in what was then a vast, open area, Karen and her sister enjoyed riding horses, catching fish in the nearby Union Creek, riding on snowmobiles, and, when they weren’t building forts out of hay, climbing into the haymow to try to and touch the large vaulted ceiling.

“It was a great place to grow up,” Rogers said. “We’d be occupied for hours upon hours.”

BARN cont’d to page 47 & 48

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Need a place to stay before the wedding? Looking for a cozy place for your guests? There’s more than just a barn at Allen Acres, there’s charm on the farm, too, in a house that can be rented for the couple or their guests — or both. It features four bedrooms, a living area and a kitchen. It’s a perfect place to get ready for the big day, prep some food or pose for pictures.

PHOTOS: ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM (TOP PHOTO: GOOGLE MAPS)

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BARN cont’d from page 46 When her father, William, died more than a decade ago, Karen didn’t want to see the property leave the family or fall into disrepair. She sought to restore the barn, a task completed a couple of years before the first wedding.

After a cousin told Karen about a young couple wanting to use the barn as a wedding venue, the barn found a purpose again.

“I can’t take credit for the idea of a wedding venue,” Rogers said. “That was a blessing sent from above.”

Converting a former dairy operation into an events venue, while retaining its original look and feel, wasn’t easy. It took a couple of years, and it’s still a work in progress; Rogers is always thinking of things that to add on in the future.

In keeping with the rural decor, the barn is furnished with about 300 mismatched wooden chairs and 35 different barnwood tables. Wedding decor and props on site can be used at no additional cost.

“I try to keep up with barn wedding trends and look for items that are useful or add authenticity to their wedding day,” Rogers said. “A lot of the decor I started with were items that belonged to my grandmother, grandfather and father. My family kept a lot of items from the 1930s through the 1980s so I had a lot of inventory from the start. It’s wonderful that these vintage items have a renewed purpose.”

That eye for detail and decor, along with a whole heap of country charm, has kept customers coming back.

“Some come back on their anniversary for photos or to just remember, others come back when they are pregnant or have a life change,” Rogers said. “I absolutely love that so many people are connected to the farm.”

More info

The Barn at Allen Acres is at 2206 Prophetstown Road, west of Rock Falls, near the intersection with U.S. Route 30.

Online: thebarnatallenacres.com Email: thebarnatallenacres@ gmail.com Phone: 847-687-3348 Social: The Barn at Allen Acres on Facebook, Instagram (@ thebarnatallenacres) and Pinterest (@thebarn2206)

VENUES AMBOY COMMUNITY CENTER 280 W. Wasson Road, Amboy 815-857-2324 Features: Full-service bar, full kitchen, tables and chairs.

Capacity: 250-300 Online: cityofamboy.org and Facebook

and well-tended flower beds make an ideal backdrop for outdoor receptions and photo shoots. The barn’s sliding doors open to let in natural light, and thousands of tiny white lights strung from the beams create a comfortable, yet elegant, setting.

Capacity: Up to 250; patio seating 300 plus Online: thebarnonthehill.net and Facebook

THE BARN AT ALLEN ACRES 2206 Prophet Road, Rock Falls 847-687-3348 Features: Historic, rustic dairy barn and/or countrythemed farmhouse available for rehearsal dinner, the wedding and wedding night, vintage carriage for photos, plenty of acreage for tents, tables, dancing.

Capacity: 150 upstairs in the barn, where the ceremony is held.

Online: thebarnatallenacres.com and Facebook, Instagram

BARNACOPIA 2570 N. West Branch Road, Polo 815-284-8484 Features: The barn has three levels that include antique tractors and cars. Outdoor space includes a beautiful willow tree, patio and much more.

Capacity: Up to 400 Online: barnacopia.com and Facebook, Instagram

THE BARN ON THE HILL 7 E. Route 72, Leaf River 815-703-0628 Email: thebarnonthehillvenue@gmail.com Features: Tall pines, large shade trees, a lush lawn,

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BASIL TREE RISTORANTE 123 E. First St., Dixon 815-288-7555 Features: Enjoy the delicious Basil Tree Catering of Italian traditions and more for your event in its private dining room.

Capacity: 50 Online: basiltree2008.com and Facebook, Instagram

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BRANDYWINE BANQUET AND EVENT CENTER 441 state Route 2, Dixon 815-284-8484 Features: Three banquet areas, customizable menus, three large wooden dance floors, building-wide PA system with wireless microphones, free Wi-Fi, projectors and screens, two full-service bars, plus three on-staff event coordinators, all in a warm, elegant setting.

Capacity: 400 Online: brandywinedixon.com and Facebook THE BRAUER BARN 9151 Edwardsville Road, Winnebago 815-519-2653 Features: A barn built around the 1900’s is the setting for this beautiful event space featuring original hard wood floors and sliding door to access the outdoor space. Space is wheelchair accessible.

Capacity: 299 Email: thebrauerbarn@gmail.com Online: thebrauerbarn.com and Facebook

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VENUES VENUES cont’d from page 48 BYRON FOREST PRESERVE: JARRETT PRARIE CENTER 7993 N. River Road, Byron 815-234-8535 Features: Banquet rooms available with space for indoor or outdoor events and beautiful views.

Online: byronforestpreserve.com CANDLELIGHT INN 2200 First Ave., Rock Falls 815-626-1897 Features: Banquet room can accommodate 100 people or be divided for smaller parties. or CANDLELIGHT INN 511 Riverview Drive, Clinton Iowa 563-243-3200 Features: Banquet room on the first floor veranda of the restaurant with views of the Mississippi River. Room can accommodate 175 people.

Online: candlelightinnrestaurant.com and Facebook, Instagram CHAMPS BANQUET VENUE 9 E. Third St., Sterling 815-626-6003 Features: A rustic, yet modern facility with access to the outside patio, which seats 40. The venue caters food to smaller groups of 20-30 people, but outside food service is available for larger groups. There’s a full-bar service, and people can bring in live entertainment.

Capacity: 150 Email: champs.banquetvenue@yahoo.com Online: Facebook CHAPEL IN THE PINES 15165 Quigley Road, Sycamore 815-895-4797 Features: Ceremony options include the chapel, a gazebo or beautiful gardens on this seven-acre private estate that includes a vintage-inspired reception hall.

Capacity: 150 Email: pinesinfo@gmail.com Online: chapelinthepines.com/ and Facebook THE CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT 29-11 Ironwood Blvd., Lake Carroll 815-493-2810 Features: Full-service restaurant with banquet space for receptions including an outdoor patio.

Online: golakecarroll.com/

THE CRYSTAL CORK WINE SHOPPE 219 W. First St., Dixon 844-843-2675 Features: Rent the wine cellar for private parties.

Includes a private bar and is handicappedaccessible. Crystal Cork also offers a traveling bar.

Capacity: 48 Email: thecrystalcork@gmail.com Online: thecrystalcork.com and Facebook DAYS INN BY WYNDHAM 2105 First Ave., Rock Falls 815-626-5500 Features: Several large banquet rooms that are wheelchair accessible.

Capacity: 350 Online: wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/rock-fallsillinois/days-inn-rock-falls/overview DEER VALLEY BANQUETS 3298 Hoover Road, Deer Grove 815-499-2911 hello@deervalleybanquets.com Features: Where your happily ever after begins ... Our venue features a large, open banquet room with cathedral wood ceiling and a wall of windows overlooking our scenic golf course. Our menus are customized to fit your taste and budget and our full-service staff will take care of all the details so you and your family can enjoy the day.

We have two full-service bars with personalized drink packages to choose from, and our newly renovated bridal suite is the perfect space for your bridal party to get ready and relax before the ceremony begins. Our upper patio and gazebo provide a romantic location to say “I do” with your closest family and friends. Contact us today to schedule your tour!

Capacity: 450 plus.

Online: www.deervalleybanquets.com, one Facebook @DeerValleyBanquets, and Instagram DILLON HOME MUSEUM 1005 E. Third St., Sterling 815-622-6202 Features: Manicured, spacious grounds and fountain are a beautiful setting for museum home, built in 1858, and included in the National Register of Historic Places. Wheelchair accessible.

Online: sterlingparks.org/location/dillon-homemuseum/ and Facebook

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DIXON ELKS LODGE 779 1279 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon 815-288-3557 Features: Full-service food and bar, linens, tables, chairs, dishes, servers. Suitable for casual events, bridal showers and elegant receptions.

Capacity: 425 Online: dixonelkslodge.com and Facebook THE DIXON HISTORIC THEATRE 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon 815-508-6324 Features: Host your special day in this historic theater.

Online: dixontheatre.com/ and Facebook EAGLE POINT LODGE 4101 N. Third St., Clinton, Iowa 563-243-1260 Features: Located in Eagle Point Park the patio can seat 250 and the lodge can seat 299.

Online: cityofclintoniowa.us THE FLIGHT DECK AT THE CHICAGOLAND SKYDIVING CENTER 1207 W. Gurler Road, Rochelle 815-561-3664 Features: An out-of-the-ordinary event space as the skydiving center transforms into a banquet space from November through March.

Online: flightdeckbar.com/ and Facebook, Instagram HAPPILY EVER AFTER WEDDING BARN 1794 S. Klinger Road, Pecatonica 815-494-8850 Features: A rustic barn that is more than 100 years old set in the rolling fields just minutes from Rockford and Freeport. Choose from inside the barn or out in the beautiful grassy fields.

Capacity: 200 Online: happilyeverafterweddingbarn.com and Facebook HENREKIN PINES 28650 Hahnaman Road, Deer Grove 815-499-6169 Features: Remodeled barn and event hall create the perfect setting for a rustic chic event in a tranquil setting. Facilities are ADA accessible and rooms are heat and air conditioned.

Capacity: 240 Online: henrekinpines.com/ and Facebook

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VENUES VENUES cont’d from page 49 HENRY’S DOUBLE K 834 S. Jackson St., Mount Carroll 815-244-0180 Features: The large event room has a private bar and lots of table seating. There’s an area for live entertainment, a dance floor, house catering and service available and large parking area in the back.

For smaller events the dining room can easily seat groups of up to 70 people.

Online: henrysdoublek.com and Facebook HORNBAKER GARDENS, INC. 22937 1140 N Ave. Princeton 815-659-3282 Features: The beautiful botanical gardens and arboretum can serve as the perfect place for exchanging your vows, or host a reception at The Barn, a new climate-controled facility with large windows overlooking the gardens, and a covered patio.

Online: hornbakergardens.com and Facebook KAPP’S BANQUET FACILITY 201 W. First St., Rock Falls 815-625-1963 Features: Indoor banquet hall near the Rock River.

Online: visitrockfalls.com/venues and Facebook KILBUCK CREEK 6752 N. Kilbuck Road, Monroe Center 815-393-3247 Features: Located among the secluded trees, this venue has beautiful space outdoors and indoors for a wedding ceremony and reception. Say your vows in the wedding Pergola as guests sit in the antique pews and enjoy a reception under the crystal chandelier in the gathering hall. Guests can choose to stay in the log cabins.

Capacity: 250 Online: kilbuckcreek.com and Facebook LINCOLN WAY INN 409 N. State St., Franklin Grove 815-456-7700 Features: Scenic countryside serves as a backdrop for events with the option to use the indoor or outdoor venues. Enjoy modern amenities with a rustically elegant feel.

Capacity: 150 Online: lincolnwayinn.com/ and Facebook, Instagram

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LIVENGOOD’S BARN 21647 Thomson Road, Chadwick 815-499-5934 Features: Two barns — the first is a mid-century two-story dairy barn that is handicapped accessible and climate controlled with rustic loft and dressing rooms. The second barn is a newly remodeled, climate controlled building. There are also room for outdoor ceremonies and a scenic pond.

Capacity: 225 Email: livengoodseventbarn@gmail.com Online: livengoodsbarn.com and Facebook, Instagram THE LOFT AT K’S KORNERS 13030 Galt Road, Sterling 815-626-2988 Features: Historic barn renovated for weddings, receptions and special events. There’s a 1920s bar and ornate winding staircase. Handicapped accessible and climate controlled.

Capacity: Up to 300 Online: Facebook LOVELAND COMMUNITY HOUSE & MUSEUM 513 W. Second St., Dixon 815-284-2741 Features: Choose from a single room to the entire building for your wedding and reception. Full kitchen available. Dining hall includes raised stage for a DJ, small band.

Capacity: Dining room seats 200 Online: lovelandcommunityhouse.org and Facebook MAHAFFEY’S ON MAIN 121 E. Main St., Morrison 815-768-7996 Features: Rent event space in historic downtown Morrison.

Online: Facebook MAJESTIC PINES EVENT CENTER 11503 Three Mile Road, Thomson 815-902-6076 Features: Choose from several banquet rooms including a small room with a fireplace that would serve as a beautiful setting for a small wedding ceremony. There is a large outdoor patio outside of a banquet room. Building is wheelchair accessible.

Capacity: 600 Online: Facebook MAMA CIMINO’S 104 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon 815-288-4448 Features: Banquet room, beers, linens, buffet-style

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catering, some gluten-free food.

Capacity: 150 Online: mamaciminosdixon.com and Facebook MAXSON’S RIVERBOAT & RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT 1469 Route 2 North, Oregon 815-732-6761 Features: Have your special day aboard the The Pride of Oregon, an authentic Paddle Wheel Riverboat located on the Rock River. For a land option, the restaurant with its glass-enclosed dining room provides beautiful views of the river and an extensive menu and bar.

Capacity: 149 riverboat; 300 restaurant Online: maxsons.net and Facebook MCCORMICK EVENT CENTER 205 E. Third St., Rock Falls 815-284-8484 Email event@saukvalleyevents.com Features: One of the largest event venues in the Sauk Valley with four large rooms that can be booked individually or together. Largest room holds about 230 people, and when all four are opened up, can accommodate nearly 750 people. The parking lot can hold 120 vehicles, and a garage door allows vehicles and larger equipment to be brought into the facility. The venue boasts a huge dance floor, a building-wide PA system with wireless microphones, free Wi-Fi, screens, two full-service bars, floor-to-ceiling room dividers and dimmable lighting. On-staff event coordinators are also available. Close to hotels.

Capacity: 750 Online: mccormickevents.com and on Facebook MEXICALI ROSE BANQUET HALL 1409 Eighth Ave., Rock Falls 815-590-3110 Features: Beautiful, contemporary banquet space to host events.

Online: mexicalirosebanquethall.com and Facebook, Instagram MILLS & PETRIE MEMORIAL BUILDING 704 N. First St., Ashton 815-973-8397 Features: In addition to housing city offices and the library there are reception spaces available, including a gymnasium and access to a kitchen.

Online: millspetrielibrary.weebly.com/facility.html

VENUES cont’d to page 51

VENUES VENUES cont’d from page 50 NAAMAN DIEHL AUDITORIUM 811 S. Clay St., Mount Carroll 815-244-3001 Features: Spacious room that is handicapped accessible with access to a state-of-the-art kitchen.

Space managed by Carroll County Farm Bureau.

Capacity: 130 Online: carrollcfb.org and Facebook OAK LANE OF OREGON 3261 S. Daysville Road, Oregon 815-871-0948 Features: 1800s-era rustic dairy barn with housing for the bridal couple, dressing rooms, bathrooms, an air-conditioned banquet room, two bars, reception hall, caterer’s kitchen. Bartenders, tables and chairs, vintage mismatched dishes and flatware, provided as well as a list of preferred vendors, such as photographers and caterers. Choose from indoor or outdoor ceremony sites.

Capacity: Up to 180 Email: oaklane2012@gmail.com Online: oaklaneoforegon.com and Facebook OLD FULTON JOURNAL BUILDING 408 10th Ave., Fulton 815-266-7619 Features: Building features various seating arrangements and outdoor space to stage a wedding and reception.

Capacity: 65 Online: visitnorthwestillinois.com/ OUT AT THE FARM 8229 11th St., Davis Junction 779-707-0996 Features: A rustic outdoor venue located in a forest on the Kilbuck Creek with an old barn, silo and stone pump house. Capacity can be increased with an additional tent.

Capacity: 150 Online: outatthefarm.com and Facebook, Instagram PALMYRA PUB 628 Palmyra Road, Dixon 815-288-6300 Features: Private dining room with varied menu from casual to more formal.

Capacity: 50 Online: palmyrapub.com/ and Facebook, Instagram PARTIES ON POPE 207 Pope St., Nelson

815-441-1446 Features: Room rental with tables, chairs and use of kitchen.

Capacity: 250 Online: partiesonpope.com and Facebook THE PAVILION AT EMERALD HILL GOLF COURSE 16802 Prairieville Road, Sterling 815-622-6204 Features: Outdoors, tent overlooks the fourth tee, covered walkway to the clubhouse, portable dance floor and bar.

Capacity: Up to 150 Online: emeraldhillgolf.com and Facebook PINE CREEK ESCAPE 6811 W. Pines Road, Oregon 815-881-1180 Features: Choose your perfect romantic location whether it is a walk down cobblestones a gazebo or say your vows near moss-covered stone staircases.

Staff can accommodate weddings large and small.

Extras include the ability to make an entrance on a horse and carriage or a Rolls Royce Experience.

Online: pinecreekescape.com and Facebook, Instagram THE POLO ROOM BANQUET HALL 712 N. Division Ave., Polo 815-946-2886 Features: Built in the early 1950s, there is plenty of space to celebrate a special occasion with a fullservice restaurant, catering and bar available for use.

Capacity: 225 Online: thepoloroom.com and Facebook POST HOUSE BALLROOM 100 W. Second St., Dixon 815-288-9236 Features: Stately, elegant, historic, turn-of-the-century former post office, constructed of Bedford stone, marble, granite, steel and terrazzo. Full bar available as well as options for a dance floor, tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, arch, PA system, projector screen. Kitchen available. Handicapped accessible.

Capacity: 250 Online: posthouseballroom.net/ and Facebook PRAIRIE VIEW GOLF CLUB 6734 German Church Road, Byron 815-234-4653 Features: Clubhouse available for rentals, with views of the beautiful grounds.

Online: byronforestpreserve.com/facilities/ prairieview-golf-club

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RAILSIDE BAR & GRILL 207 S. Butler St., Nelson 815-251-4633 Features: Warm pine interior, casual and cool. Choose from banquet or table service.

Capacity: 150 Online: Facebook ROCK RIVER CENTER 810 S. 10th St., Oregon 815-732-3252 Features: Round or banquet tables, staff, room set-up and tear-down, linens and china table service, coffee service, beverage dispensers, a grand piano, and a food service tower. The 10th St. Catering in the center has a full service menu and can cater. Menus can be customized to suit tastes and price range. Wooden floors for DJ and dancing.

Capacity: 280 Online: rockrivercenter.org and Facebook ROCK RIVER SUPPER CLUB 3901 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls 815-625-2387 Features: Three rooms, outdoor gazebo, three outdoor sites, full-service wedding and events coordinator on site; wedding packages; club memberships; bar, food, servers.

Capacity: 200 Online: rrgap.com and Facebook SALAMANDRA & THE GATHERING PLACE 105 W. First St., Dixon 815-285-0874 Features: Full-service Mexican restaurant and bar with a banquet room.

Capacity: 100 Online: Facebook SHADY OAKS COUNTRY CLUB 577 US Highway 52, Sublette 815-849-5424 Features: Reception room overlooking beautiful grounds.

Online: shadyoakscc.com/ THE SHORE EVENT CENTRE 4111 N. Riverview Drive, Bellevue, Iowa 563-872-5000 Features: Can accommodate up to 400 guests for indoor or outdoor events overlooking the Mississippi River.

Online: offshoreresort.net/weddings-and-events and Facebook

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VENUES

Online: starlightstheatre.com and Facebook

VENUES cont’d from page 51 SHERIDAN’S WALTON TAP 906 Walton Road, Amboy 815-857-2381 Features: Delicious menu options with helpful staff.

Capacity: 50 Online: Facebook SMOKED ON 3RD BBQ BISTRO & CATERING 14 E. Third St., Sterling 815-632-3773 Features: Restaurant available for private events and receptions.

Email: info@smokedon3rd.com Online: smokedon3rd.com and Facebook STARLIGHT’S THEATER & LOUNGE 341 First Ave., Sterling 815-564-9430 Features: Host your event in a former vaudeville and movie theater that even served as a disco.

Capacity: 300

STORYBOOK GARDENS 13501 E. Bethel Road, Rochelle 815-888-7962 Features: All-inclusive wedding site with three reception locations. Extras include salons for the bridal party to prepare for the big day and beautiful outdoor gardens for amazing wedding day photos.

Capacity: 300 Online: storybookgardens.club and Facebook TYCOGA VINEYARD & WINERY 2585 195th St., DeWitt, Iowa 563-249-2704 Features beautiful landscapes and say your vows under the pergola with the vineyard as a backdrop.

Have an outdoor wedding and indoor reception if you choose.

Email: tycogawinery@gmail.com Capacity: 250 Online: tycoga.com

two gorgeous barns and scenic grounds to celebrate your perfect day.

21647 THOMSON ROAD, CHADWICK IL 61014 FIND US AT LIVENGOODSBARN.COM, FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM FOR PICTURES AND MORE!

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WILLY’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3210 W. Fourth St., Sterling 815-626-0401 Features: Reserve the restaurant for your receptio,n with full-service food and beverages.

Capacity: 70-80 Online: Facebook

WOODCOTE COTTAGE 2114 Lowell Park Road, Dixon 815-284-3306 Features: The stone and timber cottage in historic Lowell Park provides a quiet, private setting for a ceremony and reception. Kitchen access and ADA restrooms.

Capacity: 100 Online: dixonparkdistrict.com/woodcote/ VFW POST #540 1560 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon 815-288-5165 Features: Spacious room provides a great setting for a special day.

Online: vfw540.org

Ideal Venue for Friends & Family Gatherings Historic barn renovated with you in mind.

• Weddings • Birthday Parties

• Receptions • Family Reunions

• Graduations • Holiday Parties

Caterer of your choice or bring your own food.

Handicapped accessible & Climate-controlled

Open 7 Days A Week 6am - 1am

and

13030 Galt Rd. • Sterling,IL 815-626-2988 • kskorners.com S a u k

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Story by Cody Cutter Sauk Valley Media

If you love c ookies, you ’ll be in good C ompan y w ith a Dix on c ouple w ho w hips up cus tom swe e ts tha t look too good to ea t

DIXON – After punching a clock for years, Marty and Tim Boyd have acquired a taste for retirement.

And oh, how sweet it is.

The couple has taken their years in the food service industry and put them to good use in their latest endeavor, as the cookie creators behind The Bake My Day Cookie Company.

The husband-and-wife team have been spending their retirement in the kitchen, designing and baking sweet treats in their home west of Dixon for all occasion, including weddings, bridal showers, bachelorette parties and more.

In the U.S., the idea of having a cookie table at weddings is believed to have originated in the eastern part of the country but these days, its popularity has spread across the nation. According to weddingcookietable.com, the tradition “has strong ethnic and religious ties, linked mainly to European immigrants of Catholic descent — particularly present in industrial areas that housed Italians, Greeks, and other Europeans.” In America, it’s believed that having cookies at weddings become more popular during the Great Depression, as a way to save money by not having to buy a wedding cake. Friends and family could also chip in and help bake cookies.

COOKIES cont’d to page 56

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Marty yd Bo gets a ready batch of cookies home, n to ship at her Dixo sband Tim where she and hu Day Cookie run The Bake My e nverted the spac Company. They co s es cking after busin for storage and pa w quick st shocked at ho took off. “I was ju ty d ... It’s been pret people responde nd yo be grateful much nonstop. I’m belief,” she said.

COOKIES cont’d from page 55 These days, cookie creators like Bake My Day can do the work for you, creating custom cookies for your big day.

The cookies that come out of the Boyds’ oven are a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into edible works of art, which takes a steady hand and precision with pastry bags of frosting.

But don’t let the cookies’ looks fools you: These not-toocrunchy, not-too-soft goodies may look too good to eat, but they’re definitely meant to be munched.

For nearly a year, the Boyds have whipped up between 15 and 20 dozen sugar cookies a week. They’ve kept busy baking for birthday parties, weddings, baby showers and social occasions; and then there are the holidays, which are a gift that keeps on giving them more business.

Customers can order and send in a design through The Bake My Day Cookie Company’s Facebook page. It’s their preferred method, Marty said, since photos and design ideas can be attached and sent that way.

Others just have an idea and let the Boyds do the rest.

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“A lot of people L/APASCHAL@ ALEX T. PASCHA M let me carte blanche SHAWMEDIA.CO a lot,” Marty said. “It’s kind of up to my interpretation, and I think I’ve done well so far.”

One good thing about controlling their business, and doing it during retirement, is the pace: When it gets to be too much, they can simply ease up on taking orders.

“Being a retirement gig, it’s nice for me to have control,” Marty said. “Tim and I have been in the food business long enough to know that a certified kitchen is something that would need to be off-site.”

Marty retired last year after nearly two decades as the food service director for the Oregon School District. It was during a December day when she decided to get creative with her Christmas cookies. When Tim saw the finished product, he knew his wife had something special.

Just one picture on Marty’s Facebook page, and things heated up, especially in the oven.

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COOKIES cont’d to page 57

COOKIES cont’d from page 58

Sugar and spicy ... Bake My Day can spice things up for a bachelorette party with frisky frosted treats like these, with a little “Sex in the City” vibe.

When you say “I do,” Bake My Day says “We can.”

They’ll custom design cookies for the special day, from rustic to romantic themes and more.

Want to invite those special people in your life to be a part of your special day? You could just ask them, or you could invite them with a cookie.

Some happy couples announce their good news with cookies.

“At Christmas time, I was baking some cookies and put them on Facebook to show people what I made,” Marty said. “Somebody said, ‘You should sell those.’ Tim said, ‘Just throw some on there and see what happens.’

“This,” Marty said as she held a tray of fresh cookies, “is what happened.”

With their combination of colors, patterns and pleasing penmanship, Marty’s designs were a hit with friends and family — and the cookies tasted great, too. Before long, the Boyds put together a business, got a cottage license from the county health department, ordered more supplies, and converted a room in their house into a packing area.

“I was surprised,” Marty said. “I was just shocked at how quick people responded. It just took off from there, and it’s been pretty much nonstop. I’m grateful beyond belief.”

Baking has long been a love of Marty’s. Before working for the Oregon schools, she once ran the bakery department at the former M&M grocery store in Mount Morris.

While cookies are still decorated by hand, How sweet it technology has opened will be to share your good news up new possibilities, and made life a little easier for with a cookie, like these bride- food decorators, including Marty, who keeps up with to-be treats. the newest trends.

Marty uses a Pico projector attached to an iPad to project images and text onto the cookies, over which she applies the Before the frosting. She also gets wedding plenty of design ideas — or after — through the internet and there’s nothing puts her own creative spin quite so sweet as on things through the Camera telling your special Lucida app. person, “I love you” with cookies

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When it comes to crafting a cookie’s looks, technology helps, like the Pico projector that Marty uses to project designs onto cookies that she can then trace over with frosting, but it still takes a steady hand and an eye for design to create cookies that are a treat for taste buds and the eyes.

ALEX T. PASCHAL/APASCHAL@SHAWMEDIA.COM

COOKIES cont’d from page 57 “I can get all of the writing the same all of the time,” Marty said. “It’s been really, really nice. A lot of times, with weddings, a lot of people want a certain design or a certain logo, and you can project that down and get it on a cookie to get it exactly how they want it.”

Want a cookie to have a photo or logo on it? The Boyds can make that happen, too.

They have a printer with edible ink and sugar wafer paper that can print photos and other artwork to be placed on cookies.

“I figured, if I was going to do it, I’m going to buy all of the right equipment, and it’s changed immensely since I first did it back in the day,” Marty said. “The art, the availability of things — back when I did it, you could only buy the equipment from restaurant suppliers.”

The Boyds have more than 150 different cookie cutters, from the basic shapes to specialized ones, like a beer can, which came in handy when Marty had a customer who wanted cookies to look like Busch Light beer cans.

Other intricate designs Marty has drawn

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up include a baby with a pacifier, cookies that looked like a lobster and coin boil for a Rock Falls bar that was hosting a lobster and coin boil.

As the cookie orders keep on coming, so too do the compliments.

“I’ve had many people that have been very, very happy, and that makes me happy,” Marty said. “I’m not here to make much money out of it because I try to keep it reasonable for people. People want nice stuff, and fun stuff, and cute stuff that they can use for gifts and special occasions. For me, that’s what it’s about.

“It makes me feel so awesome when I can hand someone a box of cookies and they are just elated. To me, that’s the whole thing. I love to cook for people.”

Now that the cookies are a big hit, Tim, who’s been helping bake and pack the cookies, said he’s going to take a stab at designing some batches.

“We’ll get there and we’ll be able to progress a little further,” Marty said. “We’ll see how many years of retirement I’ll want to take this. We’ve been progressing along, and hopefully we’ll continue in that and see where it goes.”

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More info

To place an order with The Bake My Day Cookie Company ...

Marty and Tim prefer orders/ inquiries be via a message on the The Bake My Day Cookie Company’s Facebook page. They also can be reached at bakemyday@ thebakemydaycookiecompany. com, or call 815-677-1064.

Pickup arrangements will be made when the order is placed

CAKES & SWEETS

AURELIO’S BAKE SHOP 517 Locust St., Sterling 815-626-2253 Email: yeyo971@att.net Online: Facebook BAKER STREET 111 W. First St., Dixon 815-285-2253 Email: bakerstreet111@live.com Online: bakerstreetcafeandcatering.com and Facebook BASSLINE BAKERY 507 N. Hannah Ave. Mount Morris 815-979-8953 Online: bassline-bakery.business.site/ BEZZIE’S BAKERY Home bakery in Freeport, serving northern Illinois Email: bezziesbakery@gmail.com Online: bezziesbakery.com and Facebook BLACKBERRY 21 BAKERY 21 Riverview Park Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-505-5431 Online: Facebook CAKES BY DOLORES 110 W. First St., Mount Morris 815-440-5752 Email: dolores.wolber@yahoo.com Online: Facebook COUNTY MARKET BAKERY • 210 W. Third St., Sterling – 815-622-0180 • 1380 N. Galena Ave., Dixon – 815-288-2112 Online: mycountymarket.com and Facebook EK CAKERY 107 Buchanan St., Belvidere 815-519-7287 Online: ekcakery.com and Facebook FOLSOM’S BAKERY 319 First Ave., Rock Falls 815-622-7870 Online: folsomsbakery.com and Facebook HALO CUPCAKE 7969 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park 815-282-1225 Online: je4u5uttrhalocupcake.com and Facebook, Instagram HOMER’S DELI AND SWEETHEART BAKERY 241 Main Ave., Clinton, Iowa 563-242-4105 Online: sweetheartbakery.com and Facebook HYVEE BAKERY 901S. Fourth St., Clinton, Iowa 563-243-6162 Online: hy-vee.com and Facebook

JACKIE’S DELISH DESSERTS Ashton– 815-593-0783 Email: jackiesdelishdesserts@yahoo.com Online: Facebook KROGER 2301 Locust St., Sterling 815-625-6405 Online: kroger.com KRUMPETS 1016 Fourth St., Fulton 815-208-7143 Online: krumpetsbakery.com and Facebook LAS CANELITAS BAKERY 1523 Broadway, Rockford 815-398-7500 Online: lascanelitasbakery.com and Facebook LE CAKE DESIGN STUDIO Bettendorf, Iowa 563-940-8225 Online: lecakedesignstudio.weebly.com and Facebook, Instagram LITTLE SWEETS CAKE DESIGN 133 First Ave W, Milan 309-230-8832 Online: littlesweetsqc.com and Facebook MATTY B’S BAKEHOUSE In Polo. By appointment only: 815-622-8381 Email: mattybsbakehouse@gmail.com Online: mattybsbakehouse.com MAGNOLIA SWEETS & CO. 113 N. Fourth St., Oregon 815-973-0457 Online: Facebook MISS RUTH’S SWEET TREATS 5911 Louis Ct., Davenport Iowa 563-349-9604 Online: Facebook THE NOBLE CAKERY Oregon 630-484-6969 Online: thenoblecakery.com and Facebook, Instagram O’S BAKERY 302 W. Washington St., Oregon 815-440-9637 Email: Olivia@osbakeryil.com Online: Facebook OH SO SWEET BY TIPHANIE 314 Main St., Davenport, IA 563-345-9866 Online: ohsosweetbytiphanie.com and Facebook, Instagram

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OLDE TOWNE BAKERY 1824 Seventh St., Moline 309-764-8421 Online: otbmoline.com and Facebook, Instagram POLLEN AND PASTRY Serves northern and central Illinois 815-471-9034 Email: letsparty@pollenandpastry.com Online: pollenandpastry.com and Facebook, Instagram ROLLING PIN CONFECTIONS Serves northern and central Illinois 815-590-0692 Email:tahopp@hotmail.com Online: Facebook SARA LYNN’S CAKES 3115 Oxford Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-355-8972 Online: saralynnscakes.com and Facebook SMALL TOWN PASTRY 4572 Wyndham Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 563-232-8060 Online: Facebook SIFTED SUGAR CAKE CO. Davenport, Iowa 309-318-1155 Online: Facebook, Instagram SULLIVAN’S FOODS • 300 N. Madison St., Morrison — 815-772-4696 • 101 E. State Route 64, Mount Morris — 815-734-6868 Online: sullivansfoods.net and Facebook SUGARJONES, INC 6336 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park 815-708-0801 Online: sugarjonesinc.com and Facebook, Instagram SWEET DREAM DESSERTS AND CATERING 1969 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, 815-756-8150 Online: sweetdreamdesserts.com and Facebook VICKI’S BAKED GOODS & MORE 7483 W. Montague Road, German Valley 815-362-3741 Online: Facebook THE VILLAGE BAKERY 101 N. Third St., Oregon 815-732-3830 Online: thevillagebakery.org and Facebook WALMART BAKERY • 1640 S. Galena Ave., Dixon — 815-288-7770 • 4115 E. Lincolnway, Sterling — 815-626-7200 Online: walmart.com

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the tunes

MUSIC _ _ _

_ _ _

_ _ _

_ _ _ _ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

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MUSIC 815 PRODUCTIONS DJ SERVICE Tampico 815-590-8768 Online:815Productions.com and Facebook CLASS ACT DJ SERVICE 815-579-0255 Online: aclassactdjservice.com ANYTIME EVENT SERVICE Clinton, Iowa 563-219-1513 Online: anytimeeventservice.com/ and Facebook BEST OF TIMES DJ COMPANY Rock Island Online: bestoftimesdj.com and Facebook, Instagram BOULDER TERRACE SOUND 815-501-4715 Online: btsound.com and Facebook, Instagram BLUE WATER DJ & KARAOKE 308 Willett Ave., Dixon 815-994-3999 Online: bluewaterdjandkaraoke.com/ and Facebook DJ SHOKER 815-378-7644 Online: djshoker.com and Facebook FLIPSIDE DJ ENTERTAINMENT 3653 Mill Road, Cherry Valley 815-505-7656 Online: flipside-dj.com and Facebook

LASTING IMPRESSIONS MOBILE DJ Sterling 815-564-9019 Online: Facebook LUXE PRODUCTIONS 7300 Edward Drive, Rockford 815-988-5341 Online: luxeproductions.com/ MASSETONE ENTERTAINMENT Quad Cities 563-265-1550 Online: massetone.com and Facebook MASTER ENTERTAINMENT 1727 Second Ave., Rock Island 309-797-2702 Online: masterdjonline.com and Facebook

ROCK VEGAS EVENTS Rockford 815-290-9562 Online: rockvegasevents.com/ and Facebook SAUK VALLEY DJS 18th Ave., Sterling 779-348-4530 Online: Facebook STRANGER THAN PARADISE DJ & KARAOKE — CALVIN JILDERDA 815-291-9891 Online: Facebook SOUND SOLUTION DJ ENTERTAINMENT 1891 E. Water Road, Byron 815-262-5975 Online: soundsolutiondj.com/ TWISTED MIC’S MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT 1518 Fifth Ave., Moline 309-738-4806 Online:twistedmics.com/ and Facebook

MIXX MASTER DJ’S & ENTERTAINMENT Quad Cities 563-570-7881 Online: mixxmaster.com and Facebook, Instagram QUAD CITY DJ COMPANY Moline 309-764-1532 Online: qcdjco.com and Facebook

HITS DJ SERVICE Rockford 815-289-0276 Email: joe@hitsdj.com Online:hitsdj.com/and Facebook IN TUNES MULTI-MEDIA DJ SERVICE LaSalle 815-224-2405 Online: Facebook JETI ENTERTAINMENT WEDDING DJ SERVICE 4249 E. State St., Rockford 815-395-0415 Online:jetientertainment.com/ and Facebook

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CHECKLIST

the groom

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I DO TO-DO’S

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tIPS ... __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

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the party

RECEPTION _

_

_

_

_

_ _ _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _______________________________________________________________________________________________

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CATERING 3-HEADED MONSTER BBQ & CATERING Traveling truck based in Shannon 815-297-BBQ8 (2278) Online: Facebook

EL JACALITO 1225 W. Fourth St., Sterling 815-625-3404 Online: Facebook

ARTHUR’S GARDEN DELI 2312 E. Lincolnway, Sterling 815-625-0011 Online: arthursgardendeli.com and Facebook

PALMYRA PUB 628 Palmyra Road, Dixon 815-288-6300 Online: palmyrapub.com and Facebook, Instagram

HOMER’S DELI AND SWEETHEART BAKERY 241 Main Ave. Clinton, Iowa 563-242-4105 Online: sweetheartbakery.com and Facebook

RALFIE’S BBQ AND CATERING 1490 S. Krishill Road, Chana 815-766-0668 Online: ralfiesbbq.com and Facebook, Instagram

HYVEE 901 S. Fourth St., Clinton, Iowa 563-243-6162 Online: hy-vee.com and Facebook

SALAMANDRA RESTAURANT 105 W. First St., Dixon 815-285-0874 Email: salamandradixon@yahoo.com Online: Facebook

BAKER STREET 111 W. First St., Dixon 815-285-2253 Email: bakerstreet111@live.com Online: bakerstreetcafeandcatering.com and Facebook BASIL TREE RISTORANTE 123 E. First St., Dixon 815-288-7555 Online: basiltree2008.com and Facebook, Instagram CANDLELIGHT INN 2907 N. Locust St., Sterling 815-625-2600 2200 First Ave., Rock Falls 815-626-1897 511 Riverview Drive, Clinton, Iowa 563-243-3200 Online: candlelightinnrestaurant.com and Facebook CELEBRATIONS CATERING 402 E. Mason St., Polo 815-631-1123 Online: celebrationspolo.com and Facebook, Instagram Email: minkenkass@gmail.com

LARGE MARGE BBQ INC. Sterling 815-713-4417 Email: largemargebbq@gmail.com Online: Facebook MAMA CIMINO’S 104 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon 815-288-4448 Online: mamaciminosdixon.com and Facebook Email: mamaciminodixon@gmail.com MANNY’S TOO 305 11th Ave., Fulton 815-589-2520 312 Locust St., Sterling 815-535-0707 Online: mannyspizza.com and Facebook

COTY’S UNIQUE COOKING & CATERING 216 W. First St., Dixon 815-973-5117 Email: cotymcginn@hotmail.com Online: Facebook

SMOKED ON 3RD BBQ BISTRO & CATERING 14 E. Third St., Sterling 815-718-3155 Email: info@smokedon3rd.com Online: smokedon3rd.com and Facebook SOW BELLY’S 92 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon 815-288-1234 Email: ginabattaglia.sowbellys@gmail.com Online: Facebook SULLIVAN’S FOODS 300 N. Madison St., Morrison 815-772-4696 Or. 101 E. state Route 64, Mount Morris 815-734-6868 Online: sullivansfoods.net and Facebook SWEET DREAMS DESSERTS AND CATERING 1969 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore 815-756-8150 Email: sddcatering@yahoo.com Online: sweetdreamdesserts. com/ and Facebook, Instagram

CREATIVE CUISINE 1741 Industrial Drive — Unit 24, Sterling 815-626-7546 Email: 1creativecuisine@comcast.net Online: 1creativecuisine.net and Facebook

TRIPLE P’S BBQ 3312 W. Rock Falls Road, Rock Falls 815-625-7138 or 1600 Miller St., Dixon 815-677-9030 Email: greatfood@triplepbbq.com Online: triplepbbq.com and Facebook

CUSTOM CATERING & BBQ Scott Heeren, BBQ Pitmaster 200 S. School St., Lanark 815-821-4701 Email: customcateringandbbq@ gmail.com Online: customcateringandbbq. com and Facebook

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the cost

BUDGET ESTIMATED COST

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ESTIMATED COST

ACTUAL COST

wedding

CHECKLIST

the bride

DRESS

STORE_____________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________

Website______________________________________________________________

Phone/Email__________________________________________________________

Consultant’s name_____________________________________________________

Gown description/notes________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Date ordered______________________ Date promised______________________

Price________________________________________________________________

FITTING APPOINTMENTS (Don’t forget to bring proper undergarments and shoes) Date/Time____________________________________________________________

Date/Time____________________________________________________________

Date/Time____________________________________________________________

Date/Time____________________________________________________________

Date/Time____________________________________________________________

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the setup

DECOR _ _ _ _

_

_ _ _ _

_

_ _ _ _

_

_ _ _

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CHECKLIST

the blooms

FLOWERS

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YOUR GUESTS’ PERFECT NIGHT AFTER YOUR PERFECT DAY BRIDE & GROOM: MENTION THIS MAGAZINE AD FOR A FREE GIFT WITH YOUR BOOKING!

BOOK YOUR ROOM BLOCK TODAY 1-800-HOLIDAY WWW.HIEXPRESS.COM/ROCKFALLSIL 301 EAST SECOND STREET ROCK FALLS, ILLINOIS 815-622-4000 SM-ST1945287

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Do you have a business that caters to the business of love?

We’re sorry if we missed you, but we’d like to see you in our next issue.

To have your business included in our free listings, e-mail your business name, address, phone number, hours, e-mail, website and whether you have a Facebook page, along with a brief description of the services you offer, to ... jreyna@saukvalley.com.

SAUK VALLEY WEDDINGS IS A PUBLICATION OF SAUK VALLEY MEDIA |

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