Issuu

Congratulations, you’re getting married! Each year, millions of couples around the world tie the knot. But before couples walk down the aisle, the proposal to get married must take place. Many couples mutually agree to get engaged, while the experience may be a surprise for others who have thought about it, but may not have been sure when one partner or another would “pop the question.” Upon getting engaged, couples may ponder how long their engagement should last. There is no perfect answer, and engagement length typically depends on personal preference and the needs of the couple. In fact, according to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, the average length of an engagement is 14.5 months. A number of factors affect the length of a couple’s engagement and couples should not feel as if they need to hurry down the aisle. For example, couples who will be financing their own weddings may need a longer engagement than those whose

parents will be chipping in. In such instances, longer engagements give couples more time to save and may help them ensure their weddings are everything they hoped for. Others may prefer a shorter engagement if they are financially stable and prepared to tie the knot. Couples in their late 30s may feel the tug of a biological clock and want to ensure there is ample time to get married and have children. A shorter engagement can facilitate that. Some couples may have little choice in the matter, as the length of their engagements may be dictated by the availability of their favorite venues. Military deployment, work commitments, medical issues, or travel responsibilities also may affect the length of an engagement. Some couples may feel that an especially lengthy engagement diminishes

a CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Inside

Planning tricks and tips. . . . . . . . . . 5 Budget worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Weddings on the pier. . . . . . . . . . . 7 Choosing a wedding party. . . . . . 12 At-home weddings. . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Consider Lake Lawn Resort. . . . . . 15 Dress fitting guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Rehearsal dinner tips. . . . . . . . . . . 21 Seating suggestions. . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Scheduling the big day. . . . . . . . . 23 Visit the bridal shows. . . . . . . . . . . 24 Honeymoon ideas . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 their excitement about getting married. That “new engagement shine” can wear off as family and friends wait months or years for the wedding to take place. Couples generally are advised to stick with what feels right to them regarding the length of their engagements. Whether you’re looking at a storybook wedding complete with formal ball gowns and tuxedos or a simple backyard affair with lemonade served out of canning jars, we can help. Inside this guide you’ll find ways to budget for the big day and ideas for everything from the menu to the honeymoon. Our advertisers are here to help, too. We urge you to take advantage of their services; it will help smooth all the rough edges of the planning and execution of your wedding. The area caterers, bakeries, photographers, dressmakers, vendors and venues are all looking to make your special day the best it can be. The first step in the planning process is to start making contact with them so they can show you what they offer. And don’t forget the rest of the family, when planning. Everyone wants to be involved when a wedding is getting underway. Let them help too. Just like all aspects of the wedding, couples can weigh the opinions of others but follow through with what works best for them. (METRO CREATIVE)

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10 wedding tricks add ease to planning and fun

Use page markers for 7. seating. Use multicolored, self-sticking page markers

Brides and grooms understandably feel a little stress when planning their weddings. Adding to the pressure is the fact that, according to a WeddingWire.com report, the average couple in their 30s spends $32,000 on their wedding. That is a lot of money riding on one day. But planning a wedding can be even more fun than it is stressful, especially for those couples who employ a few tricks of the wedding planning trade.

Fake the cake. Save some money by asking the bakery cake artist to decorate a foam-tiered “mock” cake for pictures and display, and serve guests from an inexpensive sheet cake in the kitchen.

Use labels. Once the guest list is finalized, create a database of guests’ addresses. Print out two sets of labels: One for addressing the invitations

to create easy seating arrangements. Each color can represent a category: His, Hers, Friends, Work.

Make a photo clothesline. 8. A clever and inexpensive idea is to pin photos of the couple to a string, cataloguing how they met and their time together leading up to the wedding.

and the other to address the thank-you cards.

RSVP tricks. Number the back of RSVP cards and correspond the numbers to the guest list.

transport home for guests who want a memento.

Stock up on string lights. 10. Lights can be wrapped around trees outdoors, strung

especially practical, you may consider skipping the favors.

indoors around windows or draped along buffet tables to create a romantic ambiance. (METRO CREATIVE)

WHAT WILL YOUR

Total Wedding Budget: $______________ CEREMONY Location fee $_______ Officiant fee $_______ Marriage license $_______ Rings $_______ Pillow $_______ TOTAL CEREMONY: $_______

TRANSPORTATION

RECEPTION Reception site $_______ Food $_______ Drinks $_______ Rentals $_______ Cake $_______ Favors $_______ TOTAL RECEPTION: $_______

FLOWERS Ceremony $_______

MUSIC Musicians $_______ Band/DJ $_______ Extra musicians $_______ TOTAL MUSIC: $_______

Save money on favors. 6. Unless the favor is something to eat or something

Use loose flower 9. centerpieces. Loose flowers in a vase are easier to sort and

? t s o c g n i d d e w

Embrace inexpensive decor. Dollar stores and craft stores are great places to find inexpensive decorative items.

BUDGET WORKSHEET

Create an email address. To have all of the weddingrelated details in one place, create a separate email address exclusively for wedding correspondence.

Limousines

$_______

Buses/transport for guests

$_______

TOTAL TRANSPORTATION: $_______

Bride’s bouquet

$_______

Bridesmaids’ bouquets $_______ Corsages and boutonnieres $_______ Reception centerpieces $_______ Flower girl basket

$_______

TOTAL FLOWERS: $_______

ATTIRE Gown $_______ Headpiece/veil $_______ Undergarments/ hosiery $______ Shoes $_______ Accessories $_______ Jewelry $_______ Makeup $_______ Hair $_______ Tuxedo $_______ Shoes $_______ Cuff links $_______ Men’s grooming $_______ TOTAL ATTIRE: $_______

PHOTOGRAPHY Photographer’s fee $_______ Videographer’s fee $_______ TOTAL PHOTOGRAPHY: $_______

STATIONERY Invitations $_______ Postage $_______ Thank-you cards $_______ TOTAL STATIONERY: $_______

GIFTS Wedding party $_______ Parents $_______ Other $_______ TOTAL GIFTS: $_______ HONEYMOON Accommodations Food TOTAL HONEYMOON:

$_______ $_______ $_______

Use this convenient list to figure out the costs involved in planning your special day.

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

Know the lingo GET SCHOOLED ON WEDDING TERMINOLOGY

Couples about to embark on their wedding journeys will likely learn a thing or two about party planning once their engagements are over and they are newly married. Wedding planning can seem overwhelming and a tad confusing at times, but a crash course in wedding terminology can help couples make more informed choices along the way. • Civil ceremony – A marriage ceremony conducted by a council official or justice of the peace at a municipal location rather than in a house of worship. • Cocktail hour – Typically an hour-long interlude between the wedding ceremony and the main dinner of the reception. Guests have time to arrive and mingle before being seated. • Deposit – A percentage of the total cost of service given to a vendor to secure a date for their services. • Maid/matron of honor – The title given to the woman who assists the bride and stands closest to her at the altar. “Maids” are those who are unmarried, while “matrons” are women who are. • Processional/Recessional – Musical pieces that mark the entrance and exit from the wedding ceremony. • Receiving line – A line of the key people in the wedding who (METRO CREATIVE) welcome and greet guests.

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This bride takes one final look back before heading to the boat at the end of the pier. Different boats are available to meet the different needs of the wedding party.

From historic vessels to a new reception venue, Gage Marine offers blissful variety

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

he Lake Geneva area has long been a popular place to visit and enjoy the beautiful views and myriad activities. So it is not surprising that when couples start talking about where to hold their wedding, this scenic locale often is No. 1 on their list of spots to explore. The Geneva Lakes area can be an ideal choice to hold that desired destination wedding that’s within a reasonable distance from home. The Lake Geneva Cruise Line has been a tradition on Geneva Lake for more than 100 years and offers a variety of excursions that almost every visitor has enjoyed at some time. Its fleet of eight yachts means there

COURTESY OF KRISTINA LORRAINE PHOTOGRAPHY Bridal Guide

Floats

WHATEVER

YOUR BOAT

is a boat to accommodate any wedding, shower, corporate event or family reunion. The list includes the Polaris, which was built in 1898 for Otto Young, one of the original millionaires to make the lake his summer home, and the restored 1902 steam yacht Louise, not to mention the larger Lady of the Lake and Grand Belle of Geneva.

‘Lake’ weddings

“Most people come to the area for a wedding because of the lake,” said Claire Mulcahy, charter sales manager at the cruise line, “yet they don’t incorporate the lake into their wedding activities.” That idea can mean an immersion that includes having the reception

a CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

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This wedding party celebrates with a champagne toast during a summer wedding reception at Pier 292.

a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 onboard one of the large yachts complete with sit-down or buffet dinners served while cruising the lake. Or it could mean a couple of hours cruising while enjoying champagne and appetizers between the ceremony and reception. The smaller boats, such as the Lorelei, are perfect for an intimate cruise for two if the bride and groom wish to have a few moments alone. Or a place the wedding party can enjoy time together and use the beautiful background in photographs. The boats can be incorporated into any wedding scenario. Whatever lakefront venue is being used for the reception, it can be reached via boat from the Riviera dock. When the wedding party or guests need to return to the hotel or resort, a charter cruise boat can serve as a taxi. Whether one chooses to hold a formal, seated dinner reception, a buffet or a standand-mingle hors d’oeuvres and cocktails event, there is a boat to serve any purpose,

and one to accommodate the wedding, rehearsal dinner or shower.

A new venue

One of the newest wedding venues on Geneva Lake’s shore can be found on the Gage Marine property in Williams Bay. Pier 292 is located on the second floor above the popular Pier 290 restaurant. The room has been completed in a somewhat nautical look, with lightly stained hardwood floors and hardwood ceiling and light-colored, wood paneled walls and possesses a magnificent view of the lake. The glass doors leading to the balcony are floor to ceiling, which open to bring the outside in and make the balcony and room one open space. The large fireplace creates a warm ambience days or evenings. Enjoy the comfortable seating around the fireplace and large television above it. Its antique bar was given to Pier 292

by the Driehaus family and adds a look of elegance to the room. With its ornate medallion centered on the front, which extends into the room slightly, it is a reminder of the early glamour and elegance of Geneva Lake. This room will hold up to 100 guests for a reception of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. If a seated meal or a buffet dinner is preferred, 65 to 70 can be accommodated comfortably.

Room with a view

“The wedding ceremony may be held in the venue,” Mulcahy said. “Standing on the balcony with the lake in the background while the guests are seated inside facing the lake presents a beautiful picture. Often the couple will plan to have a short cruise on the lake with champagne toasts to give the venue time to reset the space from ceremony venue to a beautiful dinner 9

a CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

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This couple, posed on the back of the boat proudly displaying a Just Married Sign, enjoy a private glass of champagne.

a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 and reception area with an area open for dancing.” It is an appropriate site for a smaller wedding. After a recent ceremony in the venue, with 45 guests attending, they went down to the pier for a tour on the lake and enjoyed champagne and wedding cake aboard one of the boats. The space can be arranged in a variety of ways to meet any needs. They often bring in a long table to accommodate corporate meetings. Often these groups head down to the Pier 290 restaurant for lunch or rent one of the canopy spaces for a more private lunch. Weddings also may choose the canopies for a cocktail party before returning upstairs for the reception. These spaces are adjacent to the restaurant and are another option for the wedding experience. They can be opened to bring in the outdoor feel during nice weather, but the clear, heavy draperies allow views of the lake on cold or windy days. Three canopy spaces are available. One usually is used for outdoor seating for the

restaurant and the other two host private parties. Each one accommodates 30 guests for a plated, seated meal or 25 for a buffet dinner and up to 40 for a mingling-style cocktail party. Guests may wander onto the deck to watch activities on the lake or gather around one of the fire pits for a relaxing view. The 26-mile walking path also invites one to take a short stroll. The canopy spaces are semi-private because other groups can use an adjacent space and the outdoor area is open to everyone. Two of the spaces may be rented and opened into one large.

The boat center

For the last several years, barns have been popular venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions. While one is not available on this property, the Wooden Boat Center offers a barnlike experience that may be even better than the actual thing. It is located behind Pier 290. It is an open-air, high-ceiling building that

accommodates large numbers of guests. Up to 225 people can be seated for dinner, and there is plenty of room for dancing. The décor can be as country or as elegant as desired. The wedding can be held in the venue or elsewhere. If the ceremony is at one of the nearby churches, is there any more elegant way to arrive at the reception than to have the bridal party emerge from one of the elegant cruise line boats? “People often feel that the cost of incorporating a boat into their wedding plans is prohibitive, but there are many ways to add the lake and a boat into the wedding plans at a reasonable rate,” Mulcahy said. “They may find that the cost of holding a reception on one of the boats compares favorably with other venues.” So whatever your dream wedding consists of, the cruise line has the perfect offerings for it to come true. To see what wonderful options are available, visit www.cruiselakegeneva.com or call Mulcahy at 262-248-6206. BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

Choosing a wedding party

Things to consider when selecting attendants Making the important decision to get married can fill couples with joy and excitement as they imagine spending the rest of their lives together. Naturally, brides- and grooms-to-be are anxious to share the good news with others and include family and friends in the festivities. One way couples exemplify inclusion is by asking their closest acquaintances to be part of their wedding parties. Being asked to serve as a bridesmaid or groomsman is an honor. Some couples may be tempted to ask every friend, sibling or cousin they have to be in their wedding parties, and some do. In fact, ancient Roman law required 10 witnesses to be part of the wedding ceremony. However, the larger the wedding party, the more people couples have to coordinate and the more personalities they must manage. While large wedding parties are in style, there isn’t any one-size-fits-all formula to decide which size party is right for a 12

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

particular situation. Trends vary based on geography and culture. These tips can help couples decide on the size of their wedding parties. Match it to scope and style Wedding planners may use a standard ratio for a proportion of guests to wedding party members. That ratio is one pair of wedding attendants for every 50 guests. This creates a balanced feel where the more people in attendance, the larger the wedding party and vice versa. Consider your expenses Wedding party members may be asked to spend considerable amounts of money to be in the wedding, but the couple will have certain expenses tied to the wedding party as well. These can include limousines to ferry people between the ceremony and reception, photography costs to arrange and photograph large

wedding parties, the cost of boutonnieres and bouquets, attendants’ gifts, as well as extra mouths to feed at the rehearsal dinner. Small wedding parties can be easier on couples’ budgets. Know your expectations Couples should discuss what they expect from their wedding parties. Do couples want their loved ones to be very hands-on or waiting in the wings? For those who want a lot of input from their wedding parties, asking distant friends or family to be included may be impractical. Select reliable, easygoing people Wedding party members should be people couples can rely on, and it only helps if wedding party members are not prone to overreacting. Choose a wedding party that can be trusted and people with whom you get along. (METRO CREATIVE)

Keeping it simple

SECRETS TO AT-HOME WEDDINGS Many couples preparing for their trip down the aisle follow the familiar sentiments expressed by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz.” Such couples feel “there’s no place like home” when hosting a wedding ceremony or reception. There are many benefits to hosting a wedding at home. Homes often hold couples’ most cherished memories, and hosting a backyard celebration or an intimate indoor ceremony at your own home or the abode of a loved one can be a cost-effective way to have a good time. Here are some tips to help couples navigate hosting an at-home wedding: Assess the space The average home is not equipped to handle hundreds of guests, wait staff, caterers, and parked cars. Concessions in regard to comfort and safety will have to be made when drawing up the guest list. The wedding resource The Knot advises

the general rule is six- to 10 square-feet of floor space per guest for row seating. You’ll probably need even more space for buffet tables, seating and a dance floor. You will likely need to temporarily move furniture to comfortably fit everyone indoors – or rent a large enough tent for a backyard wedding. Hire a cleaning service It’s important to present a clean, inviting space when hosting a wedding at home. A cleaning service will conduct a thorough cleaning before and after the festivities, freeing up your time for last-minute tasks or to embark on your honeymoon. Book an officiant early Confirm with an officiant that they can oversee the wedding proceedings at your home. Many religious officials are not able to perform ceremonies outside of a place of worship.

Learn if it’s legal

Certain municipalities may require permits for parking on street, noise past a certain hour, closing of streets, and much more. Do your research. You may need to coordinate parking at a nearby lot (like a school closed on the weekend) and shuttle people to your home. Consult with an insurance carrier Inquire if having such a large party at home is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, particularly if your home is damaged or someone gets injured during the festivities. Supplemental liability insurance or an umbrella policy may offer greater protection. Weddings at home can be a unique opportunity for couples who love the comfort and familiarity of their homes. 13

(METRO CREATIVE)

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

WHO’S PERFORMING THE CEREMONY? Types of wedding officiants

Many people play a role in a wedding. The bride and groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, ring bearers and flower girls are front and center on the day a couple ties the knot. Another central, and very important, figure on a couple’s wedding day is the officiant. Officiants perform the wedding ceremony and are the first to introduce the newlyweds to their guests as an officially married couple. Various types of officiants can officiate a wedding, and understanding each type can help couples find the right one for them. Religious officiant Couples who want traditional religious ceremonies often choose a religious officiant, such as a parish priest or rabbi, with whom they’re familiar. For example, couples who grew up attending a particular church might choose the priest who’s been preaching to them since they were children, while others might choose the priest at their current place of worship. Religious officiants may be governed by certain rules that restrict them to performing ceremonies in a house of worship, so couples

should inquire about such restrictions as early as possible in the planning process so they aren’t caught off guard. Civil officiant Civil officiants are officers of the court, such as a judge or justice of the peace. Many couples who are planning destination weddings abroad still choose to have a civil officiant perform a wedding ceremony at home. Civil officiants make sure marriages are legal, and they also make great options for couples who just want to get hitched without a grand ceremony. Professional officiant Professional officiants are not affiliated with a particular religious organization. That makes them great choices for couples who aren’t religious as well as those who come from different religious backgrounds and won’t be converting to the same faith. Loved ones Many couples ask a friend or family member to officiate their weddings, which

can add a fun and very personal component to the ceremony. Couples who want to take this route should research local laws to determine the steps loved ones must take to become ordained ministers who will be recognized by the state or country where the ceremony will take place. (METRO CREATIVE)

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The Delavan Lake backdrop provides a picturesque spot for photos, including those of a less-serious variety.

LAKE LAWN HAS THE AMENITIES THAT MAKE A WEDDING SPECIAL

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Looking for a wedding venue that combines a strong sense of history, a beautiful location and modern facilities to turn that special wedding day into a weekend celebration? Lake Lawn Resort may be just the place that meets those special needs. Located on Delavan Lake, Lake Lawn has hosted wedding ceremonies and receptions for several generations, perhaps dating back to when the resort opened in 1883. With two miles of shoreline and large, open lawns, this location could be the perfect place to make your wedding dreams come true. Located just 10 minutes from Lake Geneva on Highway 50, Lake Lawn is a popular location for a destination wedding as visitors from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and Rockford and many towns in between travel to Delavan for such an occasion.

Wedding parties and their guests can enjoy all of Lake Lawn’s amenities while also enjoying the many social activities around the Geneva Lake area.

The right venue

Choosing a venue for the wedding ceremony and reception often is one of the most difficult decisions that couples face. Should they choose a location close to home or a destination wedding? A traditional church ceremony or is a ceremony at the reception location the choice? What type of reception is preferred? Is it a complete sit-down dinner, a buffet or a mix-and-mingle type of affair with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres? Many of these decisions are easier when one finds a great location. Lake Lawn offers a variety of wedding and reception options, and its staff guides couples through those

a CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 choices in trying to make any wedding celebration a memorable and unforgettable experience. “The lakefront easily can be incorporated into wedding festivities,” said Jaci Jasionowski, a catering sales manager at Lake Lawn. “Tent wedding receptions or open lawn receptions are popular summer choices. Lake Lawn has a variety of options to bring the wedding outdoors.” But regardless, the resort’s wedding specialists stand with couples every step of the way. “When you first book your event, that wedding specialist will be the one with you through the entire process,” said Nicole Ross, another catering sales manager. “She will be the one to answer all of your questions and work with you to make your dreams come true.”

Catering Sales Managers Nicole Cross (from left) and Jaci Jesionowski pose with Terri Bain Director of Sales in the lobby of The Lake Lawn Resort. The team helps brides and grooms match their venues and amenities to the couples’ desires and budget. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Bridal Guide

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Take it outside

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Bridal Guide

The fireplace at Lake Lawn Resort helps set a romantic mood.

Elegant table settings with charger plates are but one of the many choices to insure that the wedding has the look the couple envisions.

Ceremonies traditionally were held in the family’s church or at city hall. Today, more couples are opting to hold wedding services at the reception venue, bringing their clergyperson with them. If couples need someone to perform the ceremony, Lake Lawn can provide a non-denominational or universal service from their preferred vendors. “A popular choice for a summer wedding is to hold the ceremony at the lakefront,” said Terri Bain, director of sales at Lake Lawn. The lakefront ceremony sites can be used with the outdoor tent reception or with one of the inside spaces. The lakefront ceremony offers a beautifully impressive backdrop for that most important moment in one’s life. Promise Point is the largest site and recently was upgraded. Walk to the shore along a brickpaved walkway lined with blooming flowers. An elegant trellis is at the lakefront, which may be decorated to suit the style and even incorporate the wedding party’s colors and adds to the ambience. Up to 300 guest chairs will be arranged along the lawn for all to comfortably view the ceremony. Enchanted Shores will accommodate up to 200 chairs. Ceremonies usually are held about 5 or 5:30 p.m. to take advantage of the setting sun’s glow across the water. Ceremony times vary depending on the time of year and the number of outdoor weddings scheduled on any particular day.

Plan B, if needed One concern is the potential for inclement weather. Bain said the

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If an indoor ceremony is preferred, or in the event of inclement weather, the Great Room, with its architectural highlights, makes a beautiful site for the wedding ceremony.

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This beautiful outdoor site located on the shore of Delavan Lake, is a favorite choice for wedding ceremonies during the nice weather.

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COURTESY OF LAKE LAWN RESORT Bridal Guide

Great Room is used as a backup. It features a high, vaulted ceiling and beautiful stone fireplace. It accommodates up to 130 people. Lake Lawn also offers a variety of outdoor reception options. The Lakeview Terrace provides a space for a cocktail reception for up to 225 guests. This cocktail party can be held as part of an indoor reception or as a standalone service. The Courtyard Garden and Pergola, with its custom brick courtyard area and a red ember, burning gas fire pit provides just the right ambience for a cocktail party. This space is located near the Geneva Ballroom and can be combined with that space. It also is the intimate setting for small wedding ceremonies. The lakefront tent site is located near the resort’s main buildings. Tents up to 46 feet by 120 feet with sides to protect against inclement weather are available. The tent wedding will be held even if it is raining. The tents allow for formal seating and space for a dance floor.

Each space can be customized for a formal or whimsical experience to fit into the spirit of the wedding. “Today’s grooms take a more active part in selecting the wedding venues and specialties,” Ross said. “They tend to be very protective of their bride and often take over some of the responsibilities that come with planning a wedding.” The choice is yours, large or small. A specialist will guide couples through sizes and prices so that their wedding will be as personal and beautiful as possible and still remain within their budget. A variety of food and drink packages, from formal dinners to buffets, are available. One advantage of holding a wedding at a resort is that it can be converted from a wedding day into a wedding weekend. The rehearsal dinner can be held in the Delavan Room. Individual choices may be ordered from a limited menu. And, of course, the food will be of the same high quality that is always present at Lake Lawn.

Indoor options

Amenities abound

The indoor ballrooms range from the smaller Geneva Club room, which will accommodate 130 people, to the Geneva Ballroom, which will accommodate up to 350 guests.

The Calladora Spa can provide all of the hair, nails and makeup applications for the bridal party by appointment. Share a morning or afternoon of luxury at the spa with a specially arranged brunch of

mimosas and breakfast sandwiches. At the farthest point on the property sits the Lake House, a complete home available for rental for the weekend. At some weddings, the Lake House becomes the place for the bride and her attendants to stay and prepare for the wedding. Others may rent it to use as a family gathering place. There is a working stove so residents have a choice of cooking themselves or catering in. The bonfire calls people to sit and enjoy the evening while sipping on one’s drink of choice. Daytime activities for guests such as golf, cruises, fishing and water activities can be arranged before and after the wedding day. When the reception ends, head to your on-site guest room; there’s no need to drive to another location. Morning-after brunches and gift opening parties are popular. So, from the moment you begin to work on the details of your wedding with one of the specialists, Lake Lawn will leave no question unanswered. Call Lake Lawn Resort to begin planning that perfect wedding. They are booking for 2019 and beyond. Lake Lawn Resort is located at 2400 E. Geneva St. (Highway 50), in Delavan. Visit www. lakeLawnResort.com or call 262-7287950. BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

Wedding dress fitting guide Tips to pick the perfect gown Because fashion preferences were once ornate and dependent on precise fits, readyto-wear clothing really did not become widely available until the early 20th century. Such attire is now available in just about any retail store. Because ready-to-wear clothing is so readily available, the average person may be unfamiliar with custom-made or tailored items. In fact, a couples’ wedding may be the only instance in their lives when they require the services of a seamstress or tailor. Fittings are a part of wedding planning, and here’s how brides-to-be can navigate the process of finding and being fitted for a dress. Try on sample gowns The first step is to make your rounds to various gown shops and try on the samples they have available. Most sample sizes will not be the size you wear every day, so expect them to be ill-fitting. Do not be discouraged. Once a gown is chosen, the dress shop will take your measurements and order the gown

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according to the manufacturer’s sizing guide. Again, this can be shocking, since the size will likely be larger than what you wear in street clothes. Schedule the first fitting The first fitting should be anywhere from eight to 12 weeks before the wedding date, according to experts at WeddingWire, an online wedding information provider. This is the time it takes to complete most standard alterations. Complex customizations can take even longer. Brides should also budget for alterations, which may or may not be included in the price of the dress. Bring shoes and undergarments Remember to bring along the exact shoes and undergarments you will wear with your gown. A change in shoes or bra/corset can result in the alterations fitting poorly the next time. Bring these items along to all (METRO CREATIVE) subsequent fittings.

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The night before the wedding

TIPS FOR THE REHEARSAL DINNER

by Julie K. Ieronimo CONTRIBUTOR

After the big question has been popped and the answer is “Yes!” months of diligent planning commence. From engagement parties, to showers, to the big day, there are lots of decisions to be made. And often times the lesser talked about, yet equally important, rehearsal dinner has taken a back seat. But in recent years with more destination weddings and grand “wedding weekends” being planned, the rehearsal dinner is now considered an integral part of the festivities. Here are some current trends when it comes to the night before the wedding: Who hosts Traditionally the parents of the groom are in charge. Though today, it isn’t uncommon to see the cost and planning split between both sets of parents, or the bride and groom might take the responsibility of this night on themselves. Who attends The bridal party plus dates/spouses and immediate family should always attend, and it is common to see other close relatives/ friends join in this special night. Tradition suggests it is proper to include out of town guests as well, but if this is a destination wedding and most guests are traveling to attend, you may want to consider a smaller rehearsal dinner and either set up an alternative event for additional guests to attend or provide suggestions for dinner locations after their arrival. Another idea is to make this a very casual event and dub it a “welcome party.” Venues In the past, most rehearsal dinners were smaller affairs and easily held at a relative’s home or in a favorite restaurant. While both are still popular choices, if your guest list exceeds capacity at these locations, check with the local chamber, your wedding planner, or the hotel where you are staying for suggestions. Private rooms, tents, or stand-alone venues which can accommodate 30 or more guests are now widely available. It is wise to reserve well in advance. Food and beverage The wedding menu should guide your selections for the rehearsal dinner. Offering

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bridal Guide

Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn in Fontana is available for rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and other wedding-related events.

something different and a bit more casual is generally preferred – such as a pizza party, themed buffet, or a traditional plated dinner. Offering a full or limited open bar is typical, though cash bars are not uncommon. It is a good idea to discuss all bar options and expectations in detail ahead of time. Decorations A recent trend in decorating has been more is more. Though, you should never outshine the wedding reception, incorporating hints of the bridal colors, pictures from the couple’s courtship, seasonal flowers, or other décor reflecting their interests or honeymoon destination will give the evening a more

personal touch. The extras Show a video chronicling the bride and groom’s lives; have parents and friends give speeches or offer toasts; give attendant’s gifts; and most of all to have fun. At the rehearsal dinner all the planning has been completed and you are now ready to enjoy the company of family and friends as you prepare to enter your new married life. Julie K. Ieronimo is the operation manager at Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn, 352 Lake St., Fontana. For more information, call 262-903-4432 and visit www.chuckslakeshoreinn.com. BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

HOW TO HANDLE SEATING WEDDING GUESTS Receptions may be big or small, lavish or casual. But regardless of their size or style, receptions all share a common element: They will require couples set up seating arrangement for guests. Even though assigned seating isn’t mandatory, selecting seats for a sit-down dinner makes things simpler and reduces confusion. Some reception venues may even require assigned seating so that catering staff can service tables accordingly. Seating guests can be tricky, but employing a few strategies can make the process go quickly and smoothly. Use a seating chart A seating chart, whether it’s venuespecific or one couples make themselves, is essential. If you using a self-made chart, inquire with the venue about the shape of tables, how many guests each table can seat, and the location of tables around the space. Start with the wedding party table Couples can ease themselves into the task of seating by doing the easy tables first. The primary one is the wedding party table. This traditionally can be a dais or a sweetheart

groom also are high priority. Both families can be combined at one table, or they can be separated into two tables. These tables should be the closest to the bride and groom. Consider mobility issues Next seat guests who have specific needs at tables. Elderly guests may want to be away from the band, deejay or speakers. Guests in wheelchairs may need an accessible seat near the exit. table flanked by the wedding party. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, the table should be centrally located and the wedding couple should sit in the middle. A male-female pattern follows on either side of the couple, consisting of the ushers, bridesmaids, best man, and maid of honor. If much of the wedding party is already married, couples may opt to have the wedding party sit with their spouses instead of at the dais. Organize family tables Tables for parents, grandparents and immediate family members of the bride and

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Get some help Enlist the help of parents to seat their friends and extended family members. Parents may know best who gets along and who should be separated. Seat dancers near the dance floor To encourage dancing, place guests who tend to be lively close to the dance floor so others can see them getting up to dance and join in. Couples can use apps, lists or selfmade charts to plot their reception seating arrangements. Create place cards or a central chart so guests can find their seats promptly and easily. (METRO CREATIVE)

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With clockwork precision How to create a wedding day schedule Wedding days can be hectic. In fact, many couples note after tying the knot that their wedding days were so busy that the ceremonies and receptions were over before they knew it. Creating a wedding day schedule can seem like a daunting task. Couples tend to have lots of things to do before saying “I do,” and organizing everything so ceremonies begin on time can seem as puzzling as a brain teaser. But certain scheduling strategies can help couples ensure they look their best and make it to the altar on time. Start with the ceremony Couples can establish a framework for their wedding day schedule by working back from the ceremony. Once the ceremony time is set, couples who plan to take photos before their ceremonies can then work with their photographers to determine how much time they will need for photos and where they want to take the photos. Bridal parties may need transportation to the photo session, so determining when and where to take photos before the ceremony gives couples an idea of when to arrange for pickup. Confirm venue is open Confirm when the wedding venue is open to the wedding party. Before booking hair and makeup appointments, couples should confirm when they will be able to access their wedding venue. Brides may want to get their hair and makeup done at the ceremony sight, but that may only be possible if the venue opens early for the wedding party. If it does not, then brides must account for transportation time to the ceremony sight when making their wedding day schedules. Hair and makeup Determine how much time is needed for hair and makeup. Weddings that feature large bridal parties will require more time for hair and makeup than ceremonies with small bridal parties. Grooms and groomsmen often take care of their own hair, though some grooms might want to schedule hot shaves for themselves and their groomsmen. Grooms should ask groomsmen if they want a hot shave and then work with their barbers to determine how much time it

will take to tend to all participants. Brides with large bridal parties may need to book more than two hair and makeup artists so everyone can get done on time. Wedding hair and makeup sessions can last several hours for large bridal parties, so brides should schedule their sessions early if their parties are big. Make lunch arrangements Some couples choose to tie the knot and host their receptions at the same venue. In such instances, if brides are getting their hair and makeup done at the venue, ask the venue representative if lunch can be provided to the bridal party. Some venues may include small lunch buffets in their reception costs, while others might charge extra. Confirm the availability and costs, and if it’s unavailable or too expensive, then arrange for lunch to be delivered. Either way, couples should not skip lunch, as it may

be their only chance to eat until after the ceremony. Inform everyone Distribute your schedule to one another and the bridal party. Once the wedding day schedule has been devised, couples should share it with each other and their wedding parties. Grooms’ wedding day to-do lists might not be as extensive as brides’, but grooms should still be kept in the loop regarding the schedule so they can help if anyone has questions or if something goes awry. Sharing the schedule with the wedding party decreases the chances of someone being late or missing an appointment. Couples can solve the riddle of scheduling their wedding days by working backwards and asking their vendors to cooperate in laying out the day’s events. 23

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Get the most out of bridal shows and wedding events Recently engaged couples may be excited to get a jump on wedding planning. Bridal shows can be a great way for couples to meet and familiarize themselves with local wedding professionals, all the while introducing themselves to the terminology of wedding planning. Though they’re a great source of information, contacts and samples, bridal shows also can be a bit overwhelming. Learning how to maximize time spent at shows can help couples plan their weddings as efficiently as possible.

• Start small

If the idea of large crowds is unappealing, attend the more intimate, boutique shows that are often held at local reception halls and restaurants instead of the larger installations at convention centers and hotels.

• Scout out vendors

Check the bridal show’s website for lists of exhibitors and see if your desired vendors are on the list. But even if they’re not, keep an open mind and use the show as a chance to compare offerings. If an event map is available, marking off must-visit booths can help save time.

• Pre-register

Pre-registering for bridal events saves time at check-in, and doing so may make you eligible for discounted tickets.

• Come prepared

Chances are each vendor is going to ask couples for information so that they can follow up with a phone call or email with more detailed offerings and estimates. Couples attending the show can expedite the process by coming equipped with labels that feature their names, contact information and wedding date. They can then stick the labels on sign-in sheets or use them like business cards.

• Dress comfortably

Bridal expos involve a lot of walking and roaming around. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Consider a backpack or hands-free bag so you are not weighed down when collecting the swag and other handouts throughout the day.

• Ask questions

When face-to-face with vendors, rely on their expertise but don’t hesitate to ask questions concerning themes, colors, recommendations for honeymoon locations, invitation paper (METRO CREATIVE) suggestions, and much more. BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

Wedding veils complete bridal look The 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; and • 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. 25

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The (private) after party

Tips for choosing a honeymoon destination

Engaged couples spend lots of time and money planning their weddings. The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study found that the average couple who married in 2017 spent more than $33,000 on their weddings. If that figure raises eyebrows, couples may be even more surprised to learn it does not include the cost of a honeymoon. Honeymoons often mark couples’ first trip together after tying the knot. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that the average engagement length in 2017 was 14 months, and many couples are no doubt ready for a getaway after spending more than a year planning their weddings. Whether couples are working with shoestring budgets or have 26

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019

some financial flexibility, it’s wise to consider various factors before choosing a honeymoon destination.

couples substantial amounts of money, which can help those who might have spent more on their weddings than they initially intended.

• Distance

• Recreation

A remote, exotic island might sound like the perfect place for couples to visit on their honeymoons. However, couples who spent more than a year planning their weddings may prefer somewhere less remote than an exotic isle that requires multiple flight transfers and possibly even days of travel to get to. Couples should discuss how much travel they’re willing to endure during their honeymoons, and then find somewhere that both partners are excited about.

• Amenities

Many resorts offer honeymoon packages that include a host of amenities, including all-inclusive food and beverage, spa access, access to water sports, and even airport pickup and dropoff. Such packages can save

Couples also may want to consider the accessibility of local recreational activities before choosing a honeymoon destination. Some couples may just want to spend the duration of their honeymoons unwinding on a beach, while others may want to mix relaxation with exploration.

• Budget

If budgets were stretched for the wedding, couples should not discount the benefits of planning a post-wedding weekend getaway and then saving some money for a more traditional honeymoon down the road. This option still affords couples a chance to spend a few post-wedding days away from home and can help them save for a honeymoon trip (METRO CREATIVE) they will never forget.