Bridal guide 2016

Give Your Wedding a Unique Touch The Perfect Wedding Has to Be Perfectly Planned

The 12 Essentials of a Dream Wedding Wright Expressions

Spring 2016

bride

Table of Contents

Staff

Page 5 Customize Your Ceremony to Give it a Unique Touch

GENERAL MANAGER Hosanna Fletcher

Page 6 Your Wedding Preparation Begins Here

EDITOR Bryan Fazio DESIGN EDITOR & GRAPHICS Carol Massey

Page 8 Wedding Rings are Symbolic Gestures of Commitment

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Cynthia Blackshear-Warren

Page 10 Inspiration Boards Bring Wedding Plans to Life Page 13 Stay on Schedule When Mailing Wedding Invitations Page 14 Four Smart Ways to Invite Your Guests to Table Page 15 Learn the Art of Choosing Flowers Page 16/17 The 12 Essentials of a Dream Wedding

ADVERTISING SALES Annette Benton Susan Grajko

17 Page 24 Wedding Good Luck Charms

Page 25 Creating a Decor That Reflects Who You Are

Page 28 Tame Wedding Day Nerves

Page 30 Mistakes to Avoid; Clever Ideas for an Inexpensive Wedding; The Head Table: Always a Delicate Matter

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Page 18 Grooms: Look Your Wedding Day Best Page 19 Clever Takes on the ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue’ Tradition Page 20 The Flower Girl

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A Publication of The Covington News

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Page 23 Wedding Veils Complete Bridal Look

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1122 Monticello St. - Suite 15 Covington, GA 30014

Page 22 A Bun, a Braid, or Curls?

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LETTER FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

A Toast to a New Beginning The decision to marry is a big decision. It is not just decisions on the dress, the colors, the cake, and the location. It is about mingling two single lives into one. Sometimes it is the culmination of high school sweethearts.

Sometimes it is the blending of two existing families into one. Sometimes it is the result of love at first sight. Sometimes it is a slow build after much time together. Whatever the case, it is the purest definition of opportunity.

Customize Your Ceremony to

Give it a Unique Touch

The ceremony, the bride’s dress, the guests, the rings, the venue, the cake.

They signify special meaning and elicit emotional responses. These are all symbols to help us remember the start of something new – your life together as a married couple.

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We celebrate this special new beginning and toast to you on your special day. May you always remember the excitement of the day, to looking forward to the future because the future is every day after for you to make of it what you will. May you always remember the details that meant so much because life will be full of those little things that mean so much. May you always remember the friends and family that surrounded you, celebrated with you, and lifted you up as you started your new lives together because your new life together will include more than just the two of you.

On behalf of all the people who helped make this book possible, from the businesses who offer their services on your special day, to the contributors who offer their words of wisdom and their version of your vision, to the staff who put it all together, we wish you the best on your special day and each day afterwards.

Hosanna Fletcher, General Manager hfletcher@covnews.com

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teeped in tradition, weddings have featured many of the same components for centuries.

Those about to tie the knot may feel somewhat limited in their ability to shape their weddings into unique celebrations of their relationships and love for one another. Although it may not seem like there are many opportunities to put your own stamp on the wedding, there are plenty of ways to do just that.

When looking to personalize your wedding ceremony, determine if there might be anything blocking you from doing so. For example, if yours will be a religious ceremony, there may be certain rites that need to be followed. Secular ceremonies may offer more opportunities to customize.

• Vows: Vows are one of the easiest ways to put a personal touch on your wedding. You can select the words you want to exchange during the ceremony as well as any readings during the service. Work with your officiant to narrow down particular phrasing or sentiments that fit with your vision of the wedding and relationship.

• Participants: Wedding party members fulfill certain roles during the ceremony, but they are not limited to those tasks alone. Consider asking wedding party members or other friends or family members to take on specialized roles in the wedding. They may be able to do certain readings, escort guests to their seats, light candles, or sing and participate in other ways.

• Musical interludes: Choose music that connects with your personalities as a couple rather than selecting standard songs merely because they are the easier

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Katey Penton Photography

route. Work with the organist or other musicians and request that they perform or play musical pieces that you enjoy.

• Candle lighting: Many couples like to incorporate candle-lighting components to their ceremonies.

Lighting unity candles blends two families together into one in a symbolic way. Other couples choose different traditions, such as mixing two differentcolored sands in a new vessel, to represent the joining of two lives together. You can consider these types of additions for your wedding ceremony or come up with your own unique tradition.

Impart a special touch to a wedding ceremony in any number of ways. Doing so will help set this special day apart in the minds of guests and make it even more memorable to look back on as a couple.

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The perfect wedding has to be perfectly planned

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ou’ve found your Prince Charming; he gave you a ring, and now you’re getting ready for the fairy tale wedding. It might be hard, but now is the time to stop dreaming and start preparing. On average, about one full year is necessary to look at all the details of your dream wedding. There is a lot to think about and, more importantly, a lot of reservations to make!

For example, if you book a wedding venue a few months before your big day, you may end up having to make compromises on such important details as the date or services available. The same thing applies to the caterer. Supplying your guests with good food is paramount at a wedding. The company you were hoping to hire may no longer be available if you only call a few weeks before the event.

Once the venue and caterer have been

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reserved, it’s time to find the right DJ to set the dance floor afire. If you opt for a more classical style of music, such as a string quartet, you should start looking even earlier; they are few and far between.

You also need to book your professional photographer about six months before the wedding. You’ll be glad you bothered, when you’re looking through your wedding album a few years down the road. And if you intend to go abroad for your honeymoon, book your tickets and hotel now. You’ll save precious dollars that can be invested instead in the decoration of your reception hall or in buying favors for your guests.

Where weddings are concerned, the rule is simple: make all your reservations well in advance so you can get the top-quality professionals you want.

It isn’t just a myth — the church and reception hall might need to be reserved a year in advance.

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C

ouples adhere to many traditions on their wedding days, including the exchange of wedding rings. Wedding rings symbolize the union of two people and their pledge to remain faithful to each other.

No one is exactly sure just when the tradition of exchanging wedding rings originated, but some say it can be traced back to ancient Egypt, when the oldest recorded exchange of wedding rings was made. Reeds growing along the Nile were twisted and braided into rings and given during betrothal ceremonies. The round ring symbolized eternity, and the hole within the center meant a gateway to things unknown. Since reeds were not very durable, soon ivory, leather and bone were used to create wedding rings.

As new lands were explored and territories expanded, traditions from one culture were adopted and modified by other cultures. The same is true with wedding rings. According to the Diamond Source, wedding rings were adopted by Romans and incorporated into Western wedding ceremonies. Romans’ rings were highly decorated, and some historians believe wedding rings were given to represent ownership over brides instead of symbolizing love. These rings were made of iron and called “Anulus Pronubus,” or “betrothal ring.”

Rings have been simplified since those days and ultimately made of many materials. Throughout history, wedding rings were worn on various fingers and even both hands, whereas many married people in Western cultures now wear their wedding rings

on the left hand and on the fourth finger. Romans once believed that this finger contained a vein, called the “Vena Amoris,” that ran directly to the heart. Though that is not true, the tradition has prevailed.

Other legends say that, when blessing a Christian marriage, priests would bind the marriage by saying, “In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” simultaneously touching the ring to the recipient’s thumb, index finger and middle finger, before slipping it on the fourth finger while saying, “Amen.”

Another theory on ring placement is that wedding rings are worn on the ring finger because that finger Wright Expressions isn’t used as much as the rest of the hand, ensuring delicate ring materials won’t be damaged.

Ross Simmons Jewelry states that gold is still the most popular metal choice for wedding rings, but couples are opting for some other metals that are more durable. Platinum is popular not only because it is long-wearing, but it also tends to be the most expensive. It’s also a dense metal and can feel heavy in hand. Tungsten carbide is another durable metal that has grown in popularity in recent years. These rings cannot be cut and resoldered, which means it’s important to size the rings correctly the first time. Titanium is both lightweight and durable, and it’s popular because it is hypo-allergenic, making it practical for those with allergies to other metals.

Wedding rings continue to serve as symbols of a couple’s vows and union. Much like the marriage itself, they are designed to last the test of time.

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Magnolia Manor is exclusively a wedding and private events venue. Our primary focus is on you and your special day. Our goal is to create the perfect ambiance for your wedding.

Choosing Magnolia Manor for your wedding gives you the advantage of holding the ceremony and reception at the same venue. Let us help you turn your dream wedding into a reality.

We offer packages to meet your every need including chef catering, floral & media.

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Inspiration Boards

Bring Wedding Plans to Life

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materials. Remember, inspiration may not always come from bridal-related resources. Anything you come across in your daily life — such as windowshopping at a furniture store or passing an art exhibit — may inspire some creativity.

Inspiration boards are used by top design professionals and can be a handy resource for couples planning their weddings.

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aking the wedding of your dreams a reality may require some creativity. It can be challenging to organize all of the creative ideas swimming around in your head, but inspiration boards may be able to help.

Inspiration boards, sometimes referred to as idea boards, are commonly used by interior designers, artists, writers, and even wedding planners. Such boards can serve a great purpose when starting a new project, especially if all of your creative ideas seem to lack cohesion. Sometimes seeing things together, rather than in bits and pieces on their own, can fuel even more creativity.

Inspiration boards can include magazine clippings, photographs, fabric swatches, quotes or literary passages, and color swatches. As the idea board grows, you may find a common denominator among your inspirational elements. This can help determine a theme for your wedding or jump-start other planning.

While poster boards may be more traditional idea boards, creative ideas also can be compiled in binders or scrapbooks, which work especially well at keeping all items organized and concise.

Plus, they’re portable, which means you can take a scrapbook to a meeting with a wedding vendor and show him or her your concepts for the wedding.

Later, when photographers, florists and other vendors have been booked, you can attach receipts or agreements to the inspiration board for future reference. This keeps all of your important wedding information in one place rather than requiring you to search through different folders or files for important documents. In addition, if friends or family members ask for advice on vendors and planning their own weddings in the future, you can readily access your inspiration board.

To start building your own board or book, take clippings of photos or articles that resonate with you. As you visit bridal shops and other stores, take fabric swatches and pictures of particular looks.

Attend bridal shows and take home promotional

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Stay on Schedule When Mailing Wedding Invitations

nvitations are a vital component of wedding planning. In addition to informing guests about the details of the ceremony and reception, wedding invitations convey the tone and style of the day.

While there are no rules governing wedding invitations, there are some ways for couples to ensure they stay on schedule when mailing invitations.

• Order invitations early. Couples can start to consider their invitation options once the wedding date and venue have been chosen. The wedding stationery industry has changed a lot over the years.

Couples can now order invitations from local retailers, use online printers, or design and print their own invitations from home.

Invitations should be worded carefully and proofed several times before printing, so expect the process to take a couple of weeks from start to finish. Plan for this time so you will have the invitations ready for mailing roughly three months before your wedding day.

Always remember to order extra invitations so you have spares in case you make a mistake or make last-minute additions to your guest list.

• Get organized before mailing. Start preparing invitations about a month before you plan to ship them, as this gives you

ample time to write envelopes so you do not have to write them all on the same day.

Keep the guest list handy and double-check the spelling of names and the addresses.

Traditional etiquette suggests addresses should be handwritten, but computerproduced calligraphy on envelopes is now just as acceptable. Avoid printed labels.

Be sure to have the complete invitation weighed at the post office so you will know exactly how much postage is required.

Purchase stamps for both the invitation and

the response cards.

• Coordinate mailing time and RSVP deadlines. Mail invitations roughly eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests time to make room in their schedules and arrange for travel, if necessary.

Set the response date for three weeks before the wedding date so guests will have the time to make a decision and mail back the response. Many caterers require a final head count one week before the wedding, so make sure your RSVP date is at least two weeks before the big day so you can account for late responders.

• Don’t let responses linger. Check off who is coming and who cannot make it as you receive each response. This way you’ll know just how many responses are still outstanding and you can follow up if necessary.

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Four Smart Ways to Invite Your Guests to Table What you give your guests to eat at your wedding reception shouldn’t be decided lightly, especially as the meal generally swallows up a large part of the wedding budget.

Here are a few options.

1. A banquet. This is the classic wedding Wright Expressions dinner format. It’s Banquet, tapas, buffet, or cocktail party: often preceded by which will you choose to satisfy your guests’ appetites? a cocktail reception with appetizers and a cash- or open bar. The meal, which includes several courses, is served to guests at their tables by wait staff. The cost varies according to the number of courses and the choice and variety of dishes on offer.

2. Tapas. It’s possible to replace the traditional three course meal with tapas, or as­sorted samples of different dishes. These can be a meal in themselves when served at the table and in sufficient quantities.

3. A cocktail party. This format involves an informal seating plan that allows guests to circulate and nibble on a variety of finger foods throughout the eve­ning. It’s a great way to encourage mingling among your guests.

4. A buffet. Simple and affordable, a buffet has the advantage of offering a wi­der variety of food. Guests get to serve themselves, according to their specific tastes.

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Discuss the different options with the person responsible for the reception. Whatever format you choose, always provide options for the children and ask guests about allergies, intolerances, and dietary laws. Think about whether you want to offer an open bar or a cash bar, and whether you want to serve a dessert in addition to your wedding cake. These days, other sweet ideas are gaining in popularity at receptions, including cupcakes and all-you-caneat candy bars. Ask your caterer about all the latest trends.

Learn the Art of

F

Choosing Flowers

rom the bridal bouquet to the decorations, flowers are going to be a major feature of your wedding. And not only do they create an atmosphere that is both festive and harmonious, they have to do it without breaking your budget. But don’t worry; it’s possible to achieve that goal with a bit of ingenuity.

Choose your wedding dress first; it will influence the creation of your bouquet. A patterned dress, for instance, will require a fairly discreet bouquet. You should also take into account your figure: if you are petite, you should avoid cascading bouquets, which are more suitable for tall, slender bri­des. And make sure your bouquet isn’t too heavy, as you’ll be carrying it for a long time.

You have a limited budget? Choose native flowers that are in season or exotic flowers that are readily available.

Think foliage; it will add volume to your bouquet and it’s in­expensive. When choosing flowers, you may also want to consider their meanings. For example, you may prefer red roses (love) or white roses (pure love) rather than yellow roses (infidelity) and daffodils (coldness). Choose flowers that don’t wilt quickly, that don’t stain and that don’t have an overpowering scent.

Once you’ve decided on your bouquet, it’s time to consider the boutonnière, bridesmaids’ bouquets and the re­ception hall decorations.

All these elements should take inspiration from your bouquet. You could use one of the flowers from your bouquet for the groom’s boutonnière and similar but smaller bouquets for the bridesmaids and table centerpieces.

Need some inspiration? A professional flo­rist is sure to have lots of great ideas to help you.

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The 12 Essentials of a

Dream Wedding

Wright Expressions

A wedding is the event of a lifetime. This special day has to be perfect, hence the importance of taking care of even the smallest of organizational details. You don’t want to forget anything, whether it’s a reservation, a fitting, or a trial run for your menu and hairstyle. Here’s a checklist of the 12 key elements you’ll need to take care of along the path to your dream wedding.

1. The Ceremony, the Officiant, and the Reception Are you going to have a civil or religious wedding? Have you asked your best friend to unite you in wedlock?

And will the reception be in the country, on a cruise ship, or in a hotel ballroom? Make sure the location you choose can easily accommodate all your guests. You’ll also want to think about signing a marriage contract or prenuptial agreement.

7. Beauty Appointments Hairstyle, manicure, waxing, and makeup: leave nothing to chance if you want to be stunning on your big day. Make your appointments for just the right time; you don’t want your roots to be visible under your veil!

8. The Dress, Suit, and Accessories The outfits of bride, groom, and wedding party should be coordinated.

Will you be a vision in white or will you choose to add a colorful note?

And will the perfect dress feature something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue?

9. Flowers and Decorations Have you chosen a color scheme for your flowers and decorative accessories? What are your favorite flowers? How will the tables be dressed?

2. The Meal and the Wedding Cake There are loads of things to think about when organizing the meal: the format; the menu; a children’s menu; the bar; and the wedding cake. Say, why not set up a candy bar? And don’t forget to ask about your guests’ food allergies.

10. Transportation Will you arrive by boat, car, horse-drawn carriage, or maybe even by parachute?

Whatever your choice, be sure to take your dress and the weather into consideration.

3. The Atmosphere What theme will you choose to set the tone for your wedding: a color, a culture, a historical period? Which DJ will get your guests out on the dance floor? Will you surprise everyone with a unique first dance?

11. Guest Favors A personalized trinket, a gourmet sample, or a home decor object: have you found the perfect wedding favor to thank your guests for joining you?

4. Photographer How will you immortalize your wedding: photos, videos, or both?

Remember to plan for an indoor photo session in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate on your big day. raphy

12. The Honeymoon A truly idyllic honeymoon shouldn’t break your budget. Are you tempted by an exotic island or a vibrant city? Choose the destination and the timing carefully to stay in line with your means.

on Photog

Katey Pent

5. The Invitations Don’t wait until the last minute to send out your invitations if you want all the important people in your life to be with you for this celebration. Remember to indicate the theme and dress code. And do think about including self-addressed stamped envelopes for those essential RSVPs. 6. Wedding Bands Your wedding bands are the symbols of your love; choose them with care. Do you both want gold, silver, or with diamonds? Discreet or extravagant? With or without an engraving?

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Grooms: Look Your Wedding Day Best!

CLEVER TAKES ON THE ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue’ Tradition

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eddings are a chance for couples tying the knot to be the center of attention. All eyes will be glued to the bride and groom on this special day, which makes it even more important for couples to look their collective best.

Brides might garner most of the attention on a couple’s wedding day, but dashing grooms also will get their share of attention. As a result, grooms must be just as diligent as their blushing brides with regard to grooming and appearance on their wedding days. To look picture-perfect, grooms may want to include these grooming tips in their wedding day preparation.

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HAIR Schedule a haircut with a professional stylist roughly a week before the wedding to get your hair shaped and trimmed. Although trendy hairstyles may show off creativity, keep in mind that photos last forever, and it’s often better to stick with a classic cut. A barber or stylist may suggest styles that best suit your face shape and hair texture. Above all, the haircut should be neat. Resist the urge to wash your hair every day before the wedding. Allow some natural oils to build up and make your hair shine in a healthy way.

SHAVING Shaving is another thing grooms must consider. If you have a beard, make sure it is clean, combed and trimmed. Men who shave the day of their weddings may find their skin is sensitive and irritated, which can lead to

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redness. Unless your facial hair grows especially fast, shave the evening before. This is a good time to splurge on a professional shave with a straight razor at a barber shop. A hot shave from a professional will produce a close shave with the least amount of irritation when done correctly.

HANDS Grooms also may want to book a manicure. Keep in mind that salons will do men’s nonpolish manicures and pedicures, and they can be well worth the investment. Photos of entwined hands or close-ups of the ring exchange will have guests zeroing in on your fingers. Have hands look their best with clean, shaped fingernails and trimmed cuticles.

SKIN Get plenty of sleep the night prior to the wedding. Being well rested will help reduce puffy eyes, dark circles and sallow skin. It will also put you in a more positive mood, which can help you enjoy the day even more.

The day of the wedding, shower using water and a mild soap. Avoid any skin irritation by patting your face and body dry, rather than rubbing it with the towel. Moisturize your skin to avoid dry patches. Stores sell many moisturizers geared toward men’s needs, often in unscented or more masculine fragrances.

Reducing shine is key for wedding day photos. Rely on face and hair products that will not add unnecessary sheen to your skin or hair to avoid making you look greasy. Matte hair waxes and sprays will tame tresses.

Also, ask your fiancé to pick you up a package of blotting tissues if you are prone to oily skin. These absorbent, typically rice-paper sheets will remove oil from your face and keep sheen to a minimum.

SMILE Make sure your teeth have been thoroughly brushed and that you have used a minty mouthwash so you’re primed for that first kiss. Many grooms also opt for whitening treatments prior to the wedding so they have a dazzling smile.

On their wedding days, grooms will likely be photographed more than any other time in their lives. That means putting extra effort into personal grooming to look their best.

edding day tokens of good luck come in many forms, but “the something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue (a sixpence in your shoe)” adage remains one of the most popular luck-enhancing wedding traditions. According to the bridal resource The Knot, this tradition stems from an Olde English rhyme.

Something old represents continuity; something new is for optimism for the future; something borrowed stands for borrowed happiness; and something blue is for purity, love and fidelity. The sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity, but this is not a tradition widely celebrated outside of the United Kingdom or British territories.

These traditions can add some creative flair and Blue gloves and garter can fulfill the “something blue” in the popular good-luck wedding tradition. personality to wedding ceremonies. There’s no end to the inventive combinations of items brides can carry to increase their good fortunes. veil she did.

SOMETHING OLD Something old is one of the easier mementos to obtain.

There is a good chance that someone in the family is willing to pass an item down to the bride that she can include in her wedding wardrobe. It also can be something the bride may have in her own memory box.

Beads taken from a grandmother’s dress or a swatch of fabric from a beloved toy doll are creative ideas that can be sewn into inconspicuous places on gowns.

SOMETHING NEW Brides already purchase many new items for their

wedding day looks, so “something new” should not be too hard to find. Couples may want to work together to find something new they can both carry so they have a matching set upon tying the knot. Interlocking charm bracelets or keychains may work. What about the groom carrying a small padlock and the bride the key? Quirky couples can each wear one sock from a pair. Get clever and have fun.

SOMETHING BORROWED Much like something old, something borrowed is yet another way to pay homage to a friend or family member.

It’s also one way to add a sentimental twist to everyday items. Borrow a grandfather’s handkerchief to wrap around the stems of the wedding bouquet. Exchange vows with the original rings used by a distant relative at their own wedding. Flatter a close friend by wearing the same

SOMETHING BLUE There are many ways to incorporate “something blue” into your wedding ceremony. Brides can paint their toenails blue or wear blue shoes under their gowns.

Sew a patch from a pair of denim jeans into the bodice of the dress. Paint the bottom of your shoes bright blue so they stand out when kneeling at the altar.

Blue sapphire or topaz jewelry can add an exotic look to the wedding wardrobe.

With a little ingenuity, brides can easily incorporate “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” into their wedding ceremonies.

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The Flower Girl Whether your wedding is going to take the traditional or modern and minimalist route, you can honor a young friend, sister, niece, or cousin by asking her to be your flower girl. If you’re planning on a big wedding party, with several bridesmaids and groomsmen, a flower girl is a lovely inclusion. If you want to keep the pomp to a minimum, having just one little flower girl to stand with you is a great strategy to avoid disappointing adult women friends!

The flower girl is usually placed at the head of the procession and leads the bride down the aisle towards her future husband. Because all eyes will be riveted on this little person, special thought should be given to her outfit. Flower girl dresses can be found in most department stores and in wedding dress boutiques. A frilly and white little ball gown will make your flower girl feel like a princess for a day — you can bet that she’ll have a hard time waiting for the big day to finally arrive!

The bride can choose her flower girl’s outfit to reflect her own gown to create a stunning effect during the bridal procession. (Photograph by Wright Expressions )

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You might prefer to let your flower girl choose her own outfit or you may want to provide one that is inspired by your own gown. Whatever the style, be sure to choose a bouquet for your flower girl that is a reflection in miniature of the one you will be holding. Another option is to ask her to carry a basket of flower petals, which she will scatter on the floor as she walks down the aisle.

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A Bun, a Braid, or Curls?

A bride’s hairstyle is essential to the look she wishes to create for her wedding day. Choosing among this year’s trends is one way to find the perfect style.

The classic bun is a popular choice, especially because it fits with the retro chic trend. In 2016 we will see lots of elegant buns and twists, just like Audrey Hepburn wore.

Brides with fine hair can opt for a cut and style, with a square cut or a plunging bob. If they want to keep their hair long, extensions are ideal for filling out some volume.

Braids are also making a comeback, but, for a more natural look, they should be soft and loose, with a few locks falling around the face to create a slightly tousled look.

The shape of the face must be taken into consideration before creating a hairstyle with a part. If the bride has a round face, a middle part will not be flattering; inversely, thin, longer faces are particularly suited to a middle part.

Choose an accessory to add a more personal touch to a hairstyle. Tiaras or headbands are lovely; some wrap partially or completely around the head and come decorated with flower and leaf patterns, curves, arabesques, pearls, or Swarovski crystals. Such jewels are as perfect in loose hair as they are with loose braids or buns.

With the help of your hairdresser, you can create the hairstyle you’ve always dreamed of. Be sure to make an appointment well ahead of your wedding day for a consultation about options and styles.

A bun, curls, or a loose braid? Choose a hairstyle that complements your gown and the shape of your face.

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Wedding Veils Complete Bridal Look

he perfect dress is on the wish list of many a bride-to-be, but no bridal ensemble is truly complete until the bride chooses her veil.

Veils have been worn by brides at their weddings for centuries.

Veils can be traced back to the Middle East, where veils helped protect against the weather while also preserving the modesty of the bride. In Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, veils were used as protection against evil spirits.

According to popular wedding website The Knot.com, until Vatican II, all Catholic women were required to have their heads covered in church, including during their wedding ceremonies.

Veils were worn for this purpose, but they also symbolized trust in the groom and his love and companionship. Some Christians also see the veil as a visual representation of submission to the Church and to God. Others think of the veil as another beautiful accompaniment to their bridal gown, without attaching any additional meaning to the veil itself.

Veils come in various lengths and can complement the style of a wedding gown. They also tend to add glamour to brides’ looks.

Here are the types of veils from shortest to longest.

• Blusher: Blushers cover the face, though some extend only to mid-cheek on the bride.

• Flyaway: Flyaways cover just the back of the head. Shorter veils may work better on petite women.

• Shoulder: Shoulder veils are about 20 inches in length and will hit at the bride’s shoulders or just below.

• Waist: Waist-length veils cascade down to the middle of the bride’s waist.

• Fingertip: These veils extend down 38 to 42 inches, brushing against the bride’s fingertips.

• Waltz/Knee: For a dramatic look, many brides may opt for waltz-length veils, which fall to the back of the knees.

• Chapel/Floor: Veils that extend to the floor may be referred to as “chapel” or “floor-length” veils. Such veils cascade slightly behind the bride.

Veils can complete brides’ wedding day looks. Shorter veils may be comfortable to wear throughout the day and evening, but brides may want to consider detachable veils if they are selecting lengthier options.

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Wedding

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Good Luck Charms

ouples’ wedding days are special moments, ones they hope pave the way to a life filled with happiness and good fortune. That’s why the bride and groom surround themselves with close friends and family who want to celebrate and support their new life joined together.

Perhaps due to superstition or tradition, many couples employ some wedding day strategies to increase their good luck. The following are some of the symbols that couples may want to keep an eye out for on the day they walk down the aisle.

• It’s good luck for the bride to see a dove on the way to the wedding because doves symbolize peace and prosperity.

Because doves mate for life, this symbol is doubly beneficial on a couple’s wedding day, as it can be a harbinger of a long, happy marriage and home.

• Some brides believe sugar cubes tucked into their wedding gloves leads to a sweet union.

• Hindu tradition states that rain on a wedding day is good luck. Rain is believed to be a symbol of fortune and abundance, especially after times of drought. What’s more, rain can foretell a strong marriage. That’s because a wet knot is more difficult to untie.

• Ancient Romans were so concerned with ensuring good luck that they actually studied pig entrails to determine the

luckiest time to marry. If they consulted with the English, they might determine that a wedding shouldn’t take place on a Saturday, which is unlucky. English tradition states Wednesday is the best day to get married.

• In Holland, well-wishers would plant pine trees outside of newlyweds’ homes as a symbol of fertility and luck.

• Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the way to their weddings. This is another symbol of good luck.

• Some couples plan to marry during a full moon, because that can symbolize good luck and good fortune.

• On a couple’s wedding day, tears from a bride or a child during the ceremony is considered lucky. English folklore suggests that brides who discover spiders in their gowns are in for some good luck.

• The Chinese believe that lighting fireworks at their wedding ceremonies chases away evil spirits. A red umbrella also might be held over a Chinese bride to keep bad spirits at bay.

• Many grooms do not see their brides in their wedding gowns before their wedding ceremonies, feeling it is bad luck if they do. Many brides also do not wear their complete wedding outfits prior to their big day.

Weddings in the Park

Creating a Decor That Reflects Who You Are The finesse of any wedding reception décor resides in the overall effect, which in turn comes from a great deal of attention to the details. Here are some tips for details that will make your wedding a comfortable and memorable event for your guests.

To add an elegant and majestic look to your reception room, draperies are worth considering. Beautiful, shiny fabrics judiciously arranged can create an atmosphere that is intimate, gracious, and festive. Shades of fuchsia, red, silver, and bronze are particularly fashionable this year and offer a more successful visual effect than white ribbons. Use filtered lighting to create a romantic ambiance that will still allow guests to see each other and what they’re eating.

Tables should be welcoming but not overdone; your guests will spend a lot of time there, trying to talk to guests on the other side of the table. Choose tablecloths and table napkins in a saturated color in order to create a warm atmosphere in the reception hall. Ask your caterers if they have pretty and original dishes, such as square or colored plates. Insist on having the best stemware and cutlery that you can get on your budget.

Think about decorating all the areas where guests will circulate, including the washrooms. Add perfume samples, small bouquets, and even some ribbons. Add decorative items in the hallways as well, hiding door and window frames if they clash with your decor and camouflaging undesirable architectural details such as piping and ventilation ducts.

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Don’t forget to decorate all the areas where the guests will be circulating, including hallways and washrooms.

Burge is a historic site with the traditional charm and romance of its rich past, yet modern in its facilities and services. We invite you to experience our beautiful country setting that offers elegant lawns, gardens, and an organic farm.

Contact us today for additional information on weddings, rehearsal dinners and parties at Burge.

770-787-5152 www.burgeweddings.com Find us on Facebook under Burge Weddings

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770.860.4190

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Did You Know?

The modern bridal shower may trace its origins the 1890s. “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” says the first bridal shower hostess filled a paper parasol with small presents and turned it over the head of the bride-to-be. Soon the concept caught on, and many other women began “showering” future brides in such a manner. Naturally, as presents became larger and heavier, the tradition of literally showering the bride with gifts was modified — but the name has stuck.

Bridal showers are designed to equip couples with many of the necessities to start their new life together. This custom is believed to have evolved from an old dowry system, in which a bride was expected to bring valuables to the marriage. The dowry was originally intended as compensation for the burden of supporting a wife placed on the groom. Some parents of the bride were not rich enough to afford an ample dowry, so friends and family members would offer small gifts to help offset this financial responsibility.

Today, both the bride and groom are equal partners in the marriage, bringing together their collective wealth. However, showers are still held regardless of the financial need of the bride as a way to offer good wishes before she embarks on her new journey.

Historically, June has been the most popular month for getting married. But some numbers now indicate that July and even October have begun to edge out June as the most popular months to tie the knot. The June wedding tradition may be traced back to the ancient Romans.

Romans honored Juno, the goddess of marriage and childbirth, and the month of June was named after her, so it is fitting that weddings take place in her namesake month. As centuries passed, June remained a popular month to get married. June was a prime time for people to come out after a long winter and take communal baths in the fifteenth century. In addition, June weddings meant children conceived after betrothal would be born close to or during the following spring. This helped assure youngsters’ survival during the rough and often lean months of winter. Spring births would not conflict with workers’ demanding schedules during the autumn harvest, either. Even when weddings began shifting from pragmatic business transactions to romantic affairs, June remained popular.

Pets play important roles in their owners’ lives and are increasingly included in more activities, such as vacations, dining out and even weddings. The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters says more couples are customizing their wedding celebrations and bridal parties to include pets. Dogs and cats are turning up in wedding photos as well as trips down the aisle. Some pets even serve as ring bearers. Before giving your pet a job for the wedding, consider his personality and temperament. How does the pet react around crowds? A dog or cat accustomed to a quiet home may behave differently when placed in a room full of excited people. In addition, confirm that pets are allowed inside your ceremony space. Certain venues may not allow animals that are not service dogs. Make sure to inform guests that an animal will be present, so those with allergies can take precautions. If it isn’t practical to have animals in the ceremony, give them a primary spot in wedding or engagement photos.

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TAME Wedding Day Nerves W hen couples tie the knot, many changes are in store, many compromises will be made and many lasting memories will be created. But in the weeks and months before their big days, couples can easily get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, never taking inventory of their feelings until their wedding days have arrived.

Come their wedding days, couples should not be surprised if some nerves set in. A survey from the anxiety self-help resource The Fear Source indicated 71 percent of brides-to-be suffered from some type of nerves during the lead-up to their weddings. Ninety-two percent of brides experienced nerves on the day of the wedding or the evening before, while 66 percent reported that it affected their daily lives prior to their weddings or hampered their performance and enjoyment during the day itself.

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According to Psych Central, a modern online voice for mental health information, emotional support and advocacy, pre-wedding jitters are common and can be the subconscious telling a person that something needs to be remedied. Wedding nerves do not mean a wedding is doomed; it just means certain issues may need to be worked through. The following are some ways to tame wedding day nerves.

• Keep an open dialogue. Speak with your future spouse about the things that may be causing your anxiety.

Maybe you have doubts on financial choices or where you will be living after the wedding. Communicating openly and honestly is one of the foundations of a strong relationship.

• Slow down and breathe. Wedding planning involves making many decisions, and sometimes couples move at breakneck speeds. Make slowing down a priority. Try to enjoy a quiet dinner with just the two of you. When enjoying peaceful moments, take deep breaths, which can be calming and revitalizing.

If need be, consider signing up for a yoga or tai chi class to force you to slow down.

• Address performance anxiety. It’s easy to build up the big day in your mind and hope that everything goes according to plan. But it’s impossible to plan for each and every outcome on your wedding day. Focus on everything that can go right, rather than worrying about what might go wrong. Also, realize that your guests are your friends and family members who will be forgiving of any hiccups along the way. You’re bound to recover gracefully from any mishaps.

• Work on confidence. Wedding fears may stem from inadequate self-confidence. Give yourself a pep talk and surround yourself with positive people. Keep the worry-warts at arms’ length for the time being.

• Recruit more help. Weddings are huge undertakings, so it’s no surprise that couples sometimes feel overwhelmed. Ask reliable relatives or friends to double-check all of the last-minute details. This way you don’t feel it is all on your shoulders.

Wedding days nerves are to be expected and often have little to do with the decision to get married.

Planning such a big event can be nerve-wracking, but there are ways to combat any anxiety that builds up as the big day draws near.

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A perfect setting for a beautiful ceremony...

Mistakes to Avoid

PHOTO: JUPITERIMAGES / THINKSTOCK

There is no doubt about it: organizing a wedding is a big job.

To help make sure your special day goes off without a hitch, be sure to keep in mind these common mistakes and avoid them at all costs.

other person, someone who you can count on to be honest and objective.

MISTAKE 1: NOT HAVING A BUDGET Budget planning is an important part of any wedding. Having a budget means that you decide in advance where all your hardearned money is going. This lets you avoid overspending or spending your mo­ney on the wrong things.

MISTAKE 3: EXTENDING LAST-MINUTE INVITATIONS Draw up your guest list carefully and then stick to it. Don’t add names along the way to please those who want to invite themselves or interfere with your planning. Be prepared to respond gently but firmly to that single friend of yours who told you she’d be coming unaccompa­nied but who now would love to bring her last-minute love interest.

MISTAKE 2: GROUP SHOPPING Shopping for a bridal gown with friends and family members is not necessarily a good idea. The reason is very simple: every­one has their own opinion, even if they don’t openly discuss their tastes and fa­vorite colors. The danger here is in being influenced to choose a gown that somebody else has been dreaming about rather than the one you’ve always wanted. It is preferable to go shopping with just one

MISTAKE 4: SPENDING EXORBITANTLY — OR STINGILY A wedding doesn’t have to be spectacu­lar and grandiose to be memorable. Some expen­ses can be reduced. Put your friends to work on decorating, for example, and spend a bit more on your dream dress. But be careful not to go to extremes; you can be reasonable without being cheap. Your wed­ding is likely going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and too much money-pinching could result in a plain or boring day.

Clever Ideas for an Inexpensive Wedding Are you in search of some ideas for a wedding that won’t leave you and your new spouse in debt for the next ten years? Here are a few tips on how to organize a delightful wedding that will not break your newly joined budgets.

First of all, it’s not necessarily a thrifty move to limit the number of guests you invite. In theory, inviting someone to a wed­ding doesn’t cost you anything; by giving you a gift (usually money), the guest is likely giving you more than the cost of his or her meal.

KATEY PENTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Rather than opting for traditional invitations, you could choose the electronic option. Your photographer or a graphic design ser­vice could put together a pretty digital invitation that would save you mailing costs and delays.

Bear in mind that quality can be cost-effective where guest favors and decorations are con­cerned. If you order some beautiful centerpieces from your favorite florist, they can decorate the reception hall all by themsel­ves, especially if

the room you’ve rented is already attractive. What’s more, your decorative elements or centerpie­ces can also be used as guest favors. If there is only one on each table, you could hold a draw for them, or they could be given away as prizes for entertaining games or­ganized by the master of ceremonies or the DJ. When planning how to integrate alcohol into your re­ception, moderation is the key word. Formulas such as open bars can lead to in­delicate behavior from some of your guests and can be very expensive to boot. In­stead, opt for a cash bar with a complementary glass of cham­pagne for toas­ting or else a li­mited number of free drinks per guest.

Lastly, think about choosing a wedding date just before or just after the high season. Bet­­ween May and September costs in­crease as­tronomically for limousines, ca­terers, re­ception halls, florists, and the list goes on. Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise — a magical wedding is still possible in April or October!

The Community Room…A great place for weddings, receptions and showers.

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The Head Table: Always a Delicate Matter

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at ot­her tables.

There are many ways to organize the seating at the head table, but generally speaking, the groom is seated to the right of the bride. If the bridal party is sea­ ted at the head table with the newly married couple in the centre, then men and wo­men are sea­ted alternately.

If you’re afraid of hur­­ ting the feelings of people who you have not chosen to sit at the head table, you could always ask them to host the ta­ble where they will be seated. In that case, be sure to indicate the na­mes of the table hosts on your seating chart.

If it is proving difficult to find a head table ar­rangement that pleases everyone, you might want to re­ sort to a “sweetheart” table, at which the bride and groom are sea­ted alone. This is an increasingly common so­lution for keeping everyone happy at the wed­ding reception.

pavilion right on the water. It’s the perfect place for receptions & photographs.

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Planning your head table seating arrangements can be tricky, especially when pa­ rents are di­ vorced or remarried. It is im­portant to leave lots of time to plan a solution to this problem and consult the parties in­volved; if done well in advance of the wedding day, chances are that you can ac­commodate everybody’s needs.

Typically, if the parents of the bride or groom are divorced and remarried, they are not seated at the head table with their new spouses. However, if head table space and family relationships allow for it, then toss con­vention to the wind and do what feels right for your fa­­mily. One practical solution is to or­ganize a separate table for step-parents and their families, which could be in close proximity to the head table or an extension of it. Another op­tion is to use a table in the shape of a half circle just for the bride and groom, the maid of ho­nor, and the best man. The partners of the wedding party members sit

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All eyes will be on the head table, so it is important to choose who sits there very carefully.

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