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HOW TO PLAN A

wedding ceremony Months of planning is par for the course for couples about to tie the knot. Much of that planning concerns the reception, and rightfully so. Receptions last longer than ceremonies, and couples are often involved in every reception detail, from picking the appetizers to serve during cocktail hour to choosing the final song before everyone calls it a night. But it’s equally important that couples devote considerable attention to their wedding ceremonies. A wedding ceremony might not last long, but it is the most crucial component of a couple’s wedding day and can even set the tone for the rest of the festivities. From choosing readings to honoring loved ones to immersing oneself in his or her faith, these tips can help couples plan their perfect ceremony.

The ceremony is important Give the ceremony equal footing with the reception. Spend time trying to put a personalized spin on the wedding,

TO HAVE and to hold

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whether that entails writing your own vows or choosing moving music that means something to you. When given ample attention, seemingly minor details can make for a special, memorable ceremony.

Consider location

Choose a ceremony location that is close to the reception site. If a ceremony will take place in a house of worship, try to choose a reception venue close to the ceremony site. This keeps guests, some of who may be out-of-towners who have already traveled extensively, from spending too much time on the road during the day of the wedding.

Get to know the officiant

The officiant should be someone with whom you both feel comfortable. This person should know you well enough that he or she can preside over the ceremony and add sentiments that come across as authentic and personalized.

Inside

Budget worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Adventurous weddings. . . . . . . 5 Picking your flowers. . . . . . . . . . 6 Many faces of Bella Vita. . . . . . . 7 Daytime weddings. . . . . . . . . . 11 Wedding cakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Band or a DJ?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Engagement photos. . . . . . . . 15 Healthy habits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Cutting reception costs. . . . . . 16 Honeymoon planning. . . . . . . 17

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BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019/20

BUDGET WORKSHEET

WHAT WILL YOUR

? t s o c g n i d d we

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: $_______

Limousines

$_______

Buses/transport for guests

$_______

TOTAL TRANSPORTATION: $_______

Bride’s bouquet

$_______

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

$_______

TOTAL FLOWERS: $_______

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

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

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

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

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MORE COUPLES ARE EMBRACING EDGY, ADVENTUROUS WEDDINGS Brides and grooms once felt compelled to conform to the trappings of traditional weddings. From uber-romantic vows to pastel colors to the penultimate white, tiered cake, various wedding components were long considered must-haves. But modern couples are increasingly expressing their individuality, and even embracing more edgy and adventurous elements, when planning their weddings. According to The Knot, a leading bridal resource and information site, today’s weddings are not what they were just a few years ago. Bold colors, exotic cakes and nontraditional foliage, are just some of the elements modern couples are embracing to set their weddings apart.

Adventurous locales

Vineyards and catering halls can be great places to tie the knot, but couples who like to push the envelope are looking to more adventurous locales to impart their

unique spin on their weddings. Sharing vows atop a mountain crest at the end of a favorite hiking trail or on a roller coaster at a theme park that harkens back to a first date are some adventurous places to tie the knot.

Outside-the-box menus

Couples may want to break with tradition by offering a wide selection of foods at their receptions. These foods can include items that fit with their specific ethnic cuisines, gourmet comfort foods (think cocktail franks wellington), or foods that fit with their dietary choices, such as organic or vegan options. Work with a caterer to provide a variety of tasty choices.

Bold wardrobe choices

Brides can put new spins on their gowns by adding color and texture. Sequins, bold embroidery, shorter hemlines, and whatever adventurous

fashion style you want to impart can be considered. If white isn’t your thing, that’s okay, too. Yellow and slate gray look great together. Gentlemen can choose to wear a black suit or any combination of color and style they want to make a dramatic impression.

Full of flavor

Cakes don’t have to be white with white buttercream. In fact, couples can make things even more tasty by incorporating favorite flavor combinations into their cakes. For example, a chocolate and caramel filling reminiscent of a candy bar might be something to consider. Modern couples are embracing bold, unique and edgy components when planning their weddings. Putting an individualized spin on the ceremony and reception can make couples even more excited to tie the knot. (METRO CREATIVE)

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019/20

Wedding flowers becoming larger than life Move over bouquets and centerpieces. Flowers are taking over weddings in a big way. While wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place at the wedding table. The blooms brides and grooms choose and how they decide to display them can say much about the couple’s style. Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating elsewhere into their occasions, such as in cakes and clothing. In fact, floral designer Tom Uberuaga says traditional hurricane vase centerpieces are outdated and only focus the eye on the middle of the table. He prefers guests enter the wedding and have their senses stimulated by flowers from all angles. Large flower installations, as well as blooms popping up in unexpected places, are some of the hot trends for couples to keep their eyes on.

Floral chandeliers

There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments. Thanks to hanging flowers and floral chandeliers, flowers are quite literally moving up in the world. Hanging floral pieces can add instant

entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.

Fairy-tale flowers

A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms. Couples who would like a fairytale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception. Martha Stewart Weddings says a cascade of flowers and greens can be romantic and elegant.

Dance floor blooms drama and make a large visual impact. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems or floral swags. Hanging floral chandeliers are dramatic but naturally expensive. Think about a large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.

Welcome wreaths

Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the

Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor, or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet.

Floral necklaces

Brides needn’t carry their bouquets, they can wear ethereal and whimsical floral pieces around their necks or on their waists instead. Couples are urged to speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings. (METRO CREATIVE)

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A venue for all seasons

Bella Vita has multiple halls to fit many needs By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

ella Vita Banquet and Convention Center offers a beautiful and unique venue that strives to create weddings that are fit for dreams. The venue is in New Munster, although the official address is 34816 Geneva Road, Burlington. While Bella Vita has been at this location for many years, Brian and Heather Boeckenstedt purchased the venue in 2015 from Heather’s father when health issues forced him to retire. “Because of his failing health, Heather’s father was no longer able to keep up the building,” Brian said. “So when we took over we began a major renovation.” Since Brian is a carpenter and cabinet builder, he was able to take on the renovation and has updated and added special features to each of the venue’s three halls. Each room was renovated and updated down to the finest detail. As the business continues to progress, updates and additions are still in the works. With Brian’s excellent carpentry skills each additional feature is always completed to perfection. Each of the three ballrooms is named after members of Heather’s family, who were instrumental in starting the family business. The rooms vary in size and décor giving the bride and groom different options for their wedding.

A hall for all needs

Lorenzo Hall, named for Grandpa Lorenzo is the largest at 6,400 square feet. It has many unique features including a barn wood wall complete with barn doors. On the opposite side of the room is a new industrial brick wall giving the bride and groom the choice of which side of the room to place their head table. It is the only one of the halls to have a sit down bar with glassware and a newly added rustic ceremony space just outside the hall. The room will hold up to 250 guests comfortably. It has a separate niche for the band or DJ also clad in barn wood. As the music is amplified through a

state-of-the-art sound system, dancers will head for the dance floor. With many couples choosing a rustic look as their style, this room is perfect for their wedding. A large bridal suite is attached to the Lorenzo room, which allows the bride and her attendants privacy to prepare for the wedding. Decorated in soft neutral shades, it is a relaxing space with a large lighted mirror for makeup application and putting

those finishing touches on their hair. There is space to relax on the inviting leather sofas. The room is available to the bridal party throughout the evening, giving them a chance to get away, catch their breath and touch up hair and makeup. “There are digital combination locks on all the bridal suite doors to assure privacy CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

A member of the bridal party makes sure that the bride’s dress is perfect in the spacious bride’s room prior to the ceremony. CORINNA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY Bridal Guide

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for the bride and her bridesmaids,” Brian said.

More options

Grace Hall named for Heather’s Grandma Grace, has a timeless and elegant feel. This room features a walk-up bar and has an attached private bridal suite similar to the one off Lorenzo Hall. There are private restrooms, a large dance floor and a separate entrance on the south side of the building, near the garden where the marriage ceremonies can be held. Grace Hall, at 5,200 square feet, comfortably seats 220 guests. Philomena Hall, named after Heather’s Great Grandma, is a 5,800 square foot room that can comfortably seat 240 guests. Like Lorenzo Hall, it is accessed from the main entrance. There is a walk-up bar and dance floor that can be enjoyed by guests. This room can be combined with the adjacent Grace Hall, for a very large event. Combining the two rooms allows for 600 guests to be accommodated. When the two rooms are opened up for a large event the two bars work together. Uplighting in various colors can also be arranged in any of the rooms for a warm, romantic effect. Projectors and screens are available in every room to feature a slide show of memories with or without sound. Table underskirt lighting, backdrop lighting and centerpiece rental are all available to customize and enhance your wedding.

Book early

Booking the venue to hold your event is the most important first step. “Many of the venues book up quickly, especially at the popular times,” Brian said. “We only book weddings on Saturday so we are limited. Once the three halls are booked for that specific date, we can’t add another wedding.” Once the venue has been chosen, the bridal couple will begin to work out the details. “Today most of our bridal couples choose to hold the wedding ceremony on site,” Brian said. The garden settings at Bella Vita with a wood pergola to frame the couple, the relaxing sound of the waterfall and the beautiful plantings make for a very picturesque wedding. White ceremony chairs are placed on the stamped concrete patio for guests. The popularity of outdoor wedding ceremonies has led Brian to construct another space for ceremonies on the site. This one is on the north side of the

building, off Lorenzo Hall. It features a rustic wedding arch, installed bench seating, a stamped concrete aisle and freshly planted landscaping. A large field of sunflowers will edge the northern side of the venue. A unique feature to this ceremony setting is the large church steeple, which may be seen in the background. A wagon wheel water feature will be added in early 2020.

A family affair

Bella Vita remains a family business with Brian, his wife Heather and their three teenage children, Bryce, Brandon, and Brielle, all hard at work making sure that everything goes as planned. “Heather is in charge of the menu, food and kitchen,” Brian said. “Everything is made from scratch. Many of the items are made using Heather’s family recipes which have been passed down for generations. “We purchase top quality ingredients and our beef is slow cooked in our ovens,” ha added. “To ensure your food is served hot, we have about 15 holding ovens to keep the food warm until it is served.” “All food served on site is prepared here. With the exception of wedding cakes, all the food and beverages must be purchased through Bella Vita. “All alcohol must be purchased at Bella Vita and served by our licensed bartenders,” Brian said. “We have a liquor license and follow Wisconsin law in not serving underage patrons. Some venues that allow bringing in your own liquor do not have a liquor license and may not comply with state law. Our bartenders will

refuse service to those who have had too much to drink and will arrange a ride home for those who have over indulged.” Liquor packages that are included with the wedding packages include a champagne toast for the bridal table. The Amore Mio Package includes a champagne toast for each guest. A two- or four-hour open bar is included depending on package chosen. The time may be divided into a cocktail hour with the remainder of the time used after dinner. Open tap beer and soda for the entire evening is included in all packages.

Packages to suit

Bella Vita offers three separate levels of wedding packages. All meals are served buffet style with the higher packages offering a carving station option. Choices include homemade Italian specialties, beef or pork entrees and chicken or turkey along with a variety of fish choices. Everything is freshly made for each wedding. The food is not the traditional banquet style but more like the food found at a fine restaurant. With 10 vegetable choices and 15 side dishes to choose from, each dinner becomes unique. A special treat is the 10 p.m. pizza buffet served with all three packages. Whichever hall and wedding package is chosen for the wedding reception of your dreams, it is sure to meet your expectations. Not only CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Wedding ceremonies are held outside in the garden setting under a wooden pergola. White chairs will line the patio for guests to observe the ceremony. The soft sound of the waterfall can be heard in the background. CORINNA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY Bridal Guide

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will you be pleased with the result but your guests will also be pleased. The high quality of the furnishings, delicious food, and the fine service given by the staff will make you pleased that you chose Bella Vita Banquets for your wedding. Bella Vita Banquets offers a shuttle service that will travel within a radius of 15 miles. Bridal parties utilize the shuttle to travel together for photographs. Guests use the shuttle for transportation to and from their hotels. The shuttle service can be contracted by the bride and groom. If you are looking for a venue to hold your wedding, anniversary party or a vow renewal party, it is never too early to contact Bella Vita, view the beautiful halls and amenities, and receive a current list of specialty items and date availabilities. Contact Bella Vita Banquet and Convention Center at 262-537-4066. Or visit at www.bellavitabanquets. com or on Facebook.

Each ballroom has unique features. This room takes advantage of a lighted backdrop, under table lighting and up-lighting to make the head table shine. Guest tables are dressed with ivory tablecloths and burgundy napkins. Simple sunflowers complete the elegant table setting. CORINNA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY Bridal Guide

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A GUIDE TO HOSTING A

Daytime Wedding eddings dot the social calendars of millions of people across the globe. The Association for Wedding Professionals International says every year an average of 2.4 million weddings are performed in the United States and approximately 150,000 per year are performed in Canada. Evenings are the most common time of the day to host a wedding, but that does not mean a daytime wedding cannot be a beautiful event and make for a party to remember. Couples are increasingly customizing their weddings to be a reflection of their personal styles. One of the ways couples are customizing their festivities is by moving the wedding to various hours of the day that meet the couple’s needs. A wedding that takes place in the late morning or afternoon may be the perfect fit for some couples. Here’s how to navigate the specifics of a daytime wedding.

Secure accommodations

An early wedding means guests may have to travel from afar the evening before to be able to attend the festivities. Daytime weddings can be complemented by working with a hotel or bed and breakfast to ensure guests will have a place to stay and get ready to arrive at the early wedding in time.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices

The wedding resource Bridal Guide says that vendors are typically more amenable to price discounts or offering greater value for daytime weddings. That’s because demand for their services is reduced during the day. Similarly, venues may have more availability during the day than at night, and, as a result, they’re more flexible on prices, especially since brunch foods generally cost less than dinner entrees.

Hire the right photographer

Be sure to contract with a photographer who is a pro at handling photos in daylight and natural light. While many photographers are skilled in any light, many are used to shooting in churches and venues with low lighting. Be sure to see picture samples taken during the daytime to gauge a photographer’s daytime experience and skill level.

Employ color to add dimension

During evening weddings, lighting or candles help set the mood. Those same elements will be ineffective in daylight. Choose bright colors for your decor and flowers to brighten up spaces.

Choose alternative entertainment

Chances are guests are not going to feel as comfortable dancing during daylight hours. Consider other entertainment, such as lawn games, karaoke, or a comedian. A

guitarist or pianist may be a nice musical touch.

Plan food accordingly

Just because the wedding is early does not mean the food should be. Guests still will need to eat. If you are only opting for light appetizers and cocktails, be sure to mention this on the invitation so guests can plan ahead and won’t go hungry. Daytime weddings can be successful with a little tweaking of traditional evening wedding planning. (METRO CREATIVE)

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019/20

Make a statement with your wedding cake Brides and grooms may pour over every detail of their weddings, but few components of the festivities may be as fun, especially for foodies, as deciding what the wedding cake will look like. Couples who want to deliver show-stopping visuals often express some measure of their creativity and personalities through statement wedding cakes. Many couples now eschew the classic three-tiered white cake in favor of a dessert that garners instant attention. Whether the cake is brightly colored or handpainted, a towering architectural marvel or shimmering in metallics, couples are opting to make a statement with their confections. Apart from clever cake-toppers, here are ways to stand apart when dessert is served. • According to the Perfect Wedding Guide, a rising trend in cakes is to cover a white or naked cake with translucent glaze tinted in the couple’s wedding colors.

This artistic expression can be especially stunning in boho-chic weddings. • Statement tiers also are popular. The cake may be traditional in nearly every way, but couples then set the cake apart by featuring an elaborate design or a different hue in one tier. • Martha Stewart Weddings advises that more than just color can be used to make a statement. Lifelike sugar flowers can really set cakes apart. Guests may not be sure if they can consume all aspects of some cakes. But delicate sugar flowers taste as good as they look. • Hand-painted tiles on a cake are another way to add panache. A bride and groom may be inspired by a European vacation or the stained-glass effects of religious windows and want to add that feel to the tiers of the cake. Statement cakes can really say something about the couple getting (METRO CREATIVE) married.

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Band or DJ? How about both? Few elements can make or break a couple’s wedding day more than entertainment. While factors like the weather are beyond couples’ control, ensuring guests have an opportunity to dance or sing along to some good music is something couples can emphasize as they plan their weddings. When it comes to music, the two main options for weddings are a live band or a disc jockey. Each has its share of advantages and disadvantages. A live band may be more expensive, but it can get the crowd excited. A good bandleader also acts as a master of ceremonies and can pay attention to the vibe of the room, tailoring a playlist around that overall mood. Plus, bands offer live performances, which adds an extra special element to the occasion that can’t be replicated at home.

A DJ is a popular choice, and today’s DJs are often artists in their own right. They know just how to select and seamlessly mix music to create the mood and really keep the party going. Couples who prefer to hear original versions of particular songs — especially for their first dance song — often prefer DJs. The popular wedding planning resource The Knot also says that it is often no problem for a DJ to find and play a song from an extensive digital library, while bands may not be able to learn and perform a song in time. Couples who can be flexible with their entertainment budgets may be able to enjoy the best of both worlds. There is nothing that says a wedding cannot feature both a live band and a DJ. Such a wedding may just take a little more planning. Consider the scenario of

bringing in a band for the cocktail hour and perhaps an hour or more during the dinner service of the reception when live music can accompany the meal. After that, a DJ can take over and drive the festivities up another notch with a late-night dance party. Some music vendors also do a combination of live and prerecorded music. They may have live singers who accompany recorded tracks, or digital instruments like keyboards and drum pads that can enhance recorded songs. These also are options when selecting wedding music. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to setting the soundtrack for a wedding. A band, DJ or combination thereof can make the occasion even more memorable. (METRO CREATIVE)

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5 great reasons to take engagement photos During their engagements, couples will make many decisions in regard to their weddings. Wedding planning can sometimes seem like a runaway train of appointments, schedules and deadlines. As a result, some couples do not take the time to enjoy being engaged, which is a special and unique time in their lives. Engagement photo shoots can be a unique way for couples to commemorate and enjoy the months preceding their weddings. Engagement photos memorialize the engagement and provide many additional benefits as well.

Engagement photo shoots give 1. couples a chance to connect with their photographers. Booking an engagement

photo shoot provides helpful information to both the couple and the photographer. The photographer gets to see how the couple interacts in front of the lens and can determine any insecurities or strengths and weaknesses couples may have. These lessons can be filed away and help make wedding day photos look better. Similarly, spending time with the photographer gives the couple an opportunity to develop a rapport with their photographer. If couples and their photographer don’t click, scheduling an engagement shoot well in advance of the wedding gives couples a chance to find someone else to take their photos.

to spend an afternoon in a special location focusing on each other without wedding

bride and groom have save-the-date 4. The or social media photos. Engagement

An engagement photo shoot gives 2. couples time to spend together. An engagement photo shoot is an ideal time

planning taking up your time. Photo shoots provide a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. Professional photographs taken before the wedding enables couples to view how they will appear in pictures. Seeing these photos might help couples grow more comfortable in front of the camera. This practice can help couples temper their anxieties prior to the wedding. An engagement shoot also can be a great time for couples to speak with their photographers about angles or styles they prefer or dislike.

photographs can be used for save-the-date cards or social media postings (check with the photographer for licensing agreements). This can be a great way to spread excitement about the upcoming nuptials.

Photo shoots provide a chance to 5. experiment with vivid backdrops. Engagement photography gives couples

plenty of opportunities to experiment with different locales, which may not be possible come the wedding day. Engagement photography can be a worthwhile inclusion in pre-wedding celebrations. (METRO CREATIVE)

Make healthy habits a part of wedding prep After the big question is popped and loving partners decide to spend their lives together as a married couple, a whirlwind of activity will ensue. Although wedding planning is exciting, some couples may feel overwhelmed with all the decisions that need to be made before they can tie the knot. In this state of increased pressure, stress may build and health could falter. According to a Cornell University study, more than 70 percent of brides-to-be have weight loss on the brain, but shedding pounds shouldn’t be the only health factor to consider. Here are some easy ways to stay mentally and physically fit in advance of a happy wedding day.

Get daily exercise

Exercise is important for maintaining a healthy body weight and keeping stress levels in check. Exercise also can boost mood. The Department of Health and

Human Services recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week. Strength training exercises performed at least twice a week complete a well-balanced exercise regimen.

Slow down and relax

Those who go full-throttle with all of their responsibilities – including wedding planning – may burn out. Stress can weaken the immune system and make people vulnerable to illness. Schedule some time for date nights with your fiancé, and don’t overlook the benefits of hanging out with friends and getting away from wedding planning for a bit.

Eat body-boosting foods

The foods we eat can impact everything from energy levels to skin radiance. Foods

like berries, sweet potatoes, broccoli, greens, green tea, and dark chocolate all contain antioxidants that boost the immune system, states The Food Network. Avoid drastic diets that can do more harm than good. Simply cutting 500 calories a day can help the average person lose a pound per week if weight loss is a goal. Simple ways to trim calories are to choose skim milk over whole milk and choose low-calorie snacks.

Cut down on alcohol consumption

Toasting to the future with a glass of wine may become rote in the months leading up to the wedding, but alcohol is a diuretic and a source of liquid calories. By making health a priority, couples can start their new lives together on healthy footing. (METRO CREATIVE)

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019/20

5 ways to cut wedding reception costs Weddings have a tendency to be expensive endeavors. According to The Knot’s 2018 Real Weddings Study, the national average cost of a wedding is $33,931. Nearly half of that ($15,439) is spent on the reception venue alone. As expensive as wedding receptions can be, couples should know that there are many ways to reduce reception costs without sacrificing fun.

Choose foods wisely

Pour over the details of catering costs. The Knot says the average price for catering will be $68 per person. If you opt for an appetizers and cocktails reception, you may be able to shave several dollars off the bill. Look closely at the pricing for buffet versus plated meals. Buffet service often means having a greater quantity of food on hand, which could drive up the cost.

Serve a custom-made cocktail

A themed drink, such as punch or a classic spirit with a reimagined, weddingfriendly name, can be less expensive than offering full open bar service. Some couples also opt to pay for only wine and beer rather than a full open bar that includes liquor and mixed drinks.

Book a weeknight

Weekend weddings are easier on guests’ schedules, but not on couples’ budgets. Couples can save thousands of dollars by hosting weeknight weddings.

Fake the cake

The Knot indicates a wedding cake runs

roughly $530. Consider displaying a mock cake for photos and then serve a sheet cake during dessert hour. Decorating foam tiers to look like an extravagant cake can save a few hundred dollars. Wedding receptions are costly, but there are many ways to save money and still enjoy a memorable evening. (METRO CREATIVE)

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Tips for a fabulous honeymoon A couple’s honeymoon is their first real chance to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. Couples who want to make sure their first getaway as husband and wife goes off without a hitch might want to heed the following advice.

destination. Look at vacationersupplied photographs to see how the accommodations match up to the resort’s own marketing materials. You don’t want too many surprises, such as service fees, dirty rooms or a lack of beach amenities, to ruin your trip.

Start saving early

Plan at least one exciting outing

Honeymoons are expensive, so to afford the vacation of your dreams it’s wise to begin saving for the honeymoon as early as possible. It may be well worth it to compromise and make sacrifices in other areas to ensure you have enough funds for your dream honeymoon getaway. Do not expect cash gifts at your wedding to pay for your trip. If you do, you may be sorely disappointed when the time comes to take off.

Read online reviews

Online reviews can paint an accurate picture of a potential honeymoon

While on your honeymoon, be sure to go on at least one adventure. Try an activity you have never done before, such as snorkeling, traveling a zip line or swimming with stingrays.

Pack early

After a long wedding day and reception spent dancing into the wee hours of the morning, you probably do not want to spend time packing. Pack your suitcases and travel essentials in advance of your wedding day so you have more time to sleep in before you

depart for the airport. Also, remember not to over-pack. You want to have room for the souvenirs you purchase along the way.

Enjoy your surroundings

Put down the smartphone or tablet enough to truly enjoy your surroundings. A honeymoon is an opportunity to relax, and that may not be possible if you’re tied to your devices. Friends at home can wait for your status updates and wedding pictures.

Splurge on something expensive

Whether it’s an ultra-fancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge.

Leave your itinerary open

After scores of wedding appointments and watching the clock, it’s nice to fly by the seat of your pants. (METRO CREATIVE)

BRIDAL GUIDE • WINTER 2019/20

& BANQUET HALL

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Party to Go refrigerated trailers are completely portable. From backyard parties to refrigeration breakdowns, PARTY TO GO refrigerated party trailers is a great way to keep you cool!

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Party trailer rental rates

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electrical:

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Trailers require one 20 amp 120 volt grounded outlet.