Winter Bridal 2020

&

A LOCAL GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR PERFECT DAY

To Have To Hold ideas • photos advice • fashion receptions honeymoons

...and more

A publication of

Rock Valley Publishing Winter

2020

BUDGET WORKSHEET

WHAT WILL YOUR

Total Wedding Budget: $______________

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

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: $_______

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 Show At L a k e l aw n R e s o rt

March 1, 2020 11AM-3PM BRIDAL - WINTER 2020

Over 50 Wedding & EvenT Vendors

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2400 East Geneva Street | Delavan, Wisconsin 262.728.7950 | LakeLawnResort.com Get socia l wi t h us!

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HOW TO PLAN A

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 andHAVE to hold A publication of Rock Valley Publishing LLC

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.

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1102 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 728-3411 FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Call (262) 763-2575 EDITOR: Melanie Bradley CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heidi Schulz PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwelff

Inside

Budget Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Ducky’s Formal Wear. . . . . . . . . . . 4 Chapel in the Pines . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Daytime Wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Baltic Mill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Wedding Packages . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lakefront Wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dry Cleaners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Fabulous Honeymoon. . . . . . . . . 11 Band or DJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Wedding Reception Costs. . . . . 14

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wedding ceremony

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Ducky’s Formal Wear answers FAQs about tuxes for proms, weddings Ducky’s Formal Wear has made the tuxedo rental procedure easy for you by answering some frequently asked questions about wedding and prom clothing. If you still have any questions. please feel to call or visit Ducky’s Formal Wear in Dekalb, Ill. The experienced team at Ducky’s Formal Wear is looking forward to serving you.

If there are three or more people getting fitted, an appointment needs to be made.

We like to have everyone fitted by 1 month before the wedding. Ring bearers or small children, however, can be fitted 2 to 3 weeks before the wedding.

4. What if someone is from out of town?

They can get measured at any tuxedo store near them and mail, fax, phone or email their measurements to us.

5. When should we pay for the tuxes?

There is a $20 down payment for the tuxedos upon fitting or submitting of measurements.

Otherwise, full payment is not required until the date of pickup.

6. What specials do you offer?

Wedding specials may vary.

Please call us for details.

7. Do you carry wedding invitations?

Yes. We carry invitations by Carlson Craft, McPherson’s,

Weddings 1. When should I register for my wedding?

Weddings should be registered at least 3 months prior to the big day.

2. Do I need an appointment?

No. You can come at any time to register your wedding.

3. When should the wedding party get fitted?

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Winter Bridal

Find adorable dresses and suits for the youngest members of your wedding party.

250 E. Lincoln Hwy. DeKalb, IL 60115

FREE* Invitations FREE* Groom’s Tuxedo (with 5 paid rentals)

The area’s only in-stock tuxedo shop!

Proudly serving DeKalb County for 20 years!

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THANK YOU! Your support means the world to us.

Special Occasions | Prom

www.duckysdekalb.com

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To our former and current customers,

Tatex and Birchcraft with over a dozen books to choose from.

8. When are the tuxes ready?

Due back?

Check with your customer service representative to set up the date that best fits for you.

But if you are in doubt, pick up the day before and return the day after.

9. What hidden fees should I look for? We don’t charge any hidden fees!

Reasons Why You Should Choose Us Open 7 days a week Damage waivers available for $10.

Nationwide fittings There’s no sales tax on rentals in Illinois (saves you $10 to $15) Brands we deal with: Michael Kors, Ike Behar, Perry Ellis, and more Member of the International Formalwear Association

Member of Select Independent Formalwear Association $99 bridesmaid dresses through Little Black Dress when you rent tuxes here $50 OFF each member of the party, plus groom rental FREE 50% OFF for fathers of the bride and groom Chosen Retailer of the Year by the International Formalwear Association Ask us about our FREE invitations and our FREE suitto-keep offer for the groom!

Ducky’s Formal Wear is located at 250 E Lincoln Hwy. DeKalb, IL Tel: 815-754-7703 Tel #2: 815-758-3433 duckysdekalb@gmail.com Business Hours Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday Noon to 4 p.m.

Chapel in the Pines offers country chic wedding venue

SUBMITTED PHOTO Winter Bridal

Chapel in the Pines offers a quaint country setting for your wedding day.

arranged construction so that the chapel’s completion would fall in time for their 30th anniversary on April 27.

Practically all by himself in his moments of spare time he built the chapel from the ground up using materials from old churches and other torn down buildings.

Transforming what once existed as the origins of a dairy farm into a new era of wedding bliss.

The first wedding debuted on March 4, 1994, a day after the chapel was completed and since then has hosted over 2,000 ceremonies from all over the world. As Howard puts it, “I may have built it and own it, but it belongs to all the couples who have used it for their nuptials.” No matter their accomplishments, the two insist Chapel in the Pines has always been and will always be about the people.

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In early 1978, Howard & Donna with their two children moved to the property later to be called Chapel in the Pines, in Sycamore, Ill. The property was not a working farm when purchased and needed a lot of work as all of the buildings were 75 years old.

In the past 40 years, they have transformed the property into a fairy tale setting which continues to this day.

While Chapel in the Pines marks the happiest day in the lives of countless couples, For Howard & Donna, it marks their happiest years together. When Howard constructed the chapel in 1994, it was not intended to be a place of matrimony so much as it was a 30th wedding anniversary gift for Donna. Little by little, however, as Howard finished its last minute features, more and more couples showed up at the chapel steps in hopes of exchanging vows.

Although Donna initially dreamt up the idea behind the chapel, it was Howard who

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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.

W

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

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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.

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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.

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BELVIDERE PARK DISTRICT OFFERS

Rustic wedding venue at Baltic Mill The Baltic Mill is rich with history and remains the cornerstone of the Belvidere Park District. Although the Baltic Mill has since been renovated and modernized, it remains beautiful, rustic, and quaintly nestled amongst trees, the river, beautiful greenery, and nature itself.

your tour, and learn more about our venue.

Reserving your date

Reservations are required to hold the Baltic Mill Stage and Seating Area and must be made through the Belvidere Park District with a signed contract and $100 deposit. Full payment is due 90 days prior to your event date. Reservations Owned and operated by the Belvidere will be taken on a first come, first paid Park District, the Baltic Mill event space is basis. Renters are responsible for making perfect for your unique outdoor celebration! arrangements for the event.

The beauty of nature will surround you Alcohol is prohibited unless approved by during the months of May through October, the Executive Director. in a relaxing, natural fashion as the Baltic Mill wedding/event packages symphony of flowers and calming green Package 1: beds provide the perfect backdrop for your $350 + $100 Refundable Deposit outdoor wedding.

Rehearsal (Night Before) – Stage & The tranquil flow of the Mill Race will Seating Area Only (1 Hour) soothe and delight your senses. Have your Ceremony – Stage & Seating Area Only memorable wedding ceremony performed 3-hour Time Block on the Baltic Mill stage. The seating area Package 2: features natural limestone rock for hillside $400 + $100 Refundable Deposit seating.

Rehearsal (Night Before) – Stage & The Baltic Mill itself provides a Seating Area Only (1 Hour) comfortable meeting space or preparation Ceremony – Stage, Seating Area and room for your special day. Complimentary Conference Room parking is available throughout Belvidere 3-hour Time Block Park and on Lincoln Ave for your guests.

Package Add-On’s are available for an additional fee.

Conference Room Rental on Wedding Belvidere Park District will work Day: $25/Hour with you to make your wedding a truly Wedding/Event Reservation Time memorable occasion. We encourage you to Block:1 to 4 p.m. pay us a visit and tour our facility. Please Baltic Mill is located at 920 W. Lincoln contact us at 815-547-5711 to schedule Ave., Belvidere, Ill.

Baltic Mill offers

Plan your event

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Owned and operated by the Belvidere Park District, the Baltic Mill event space is perfect for your unique outdoor celebration

BYRON FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OFFERS Premier Wedding Package - $5,500 Includes: Outdoor ceremony area including the stage, bridge, shelter, and/or other area; outdoor seating for up to 200 guests; two sixfoot altar tables setup with linen tablecloths; two hours of rehearsal time; golf cart to shuttle bride to on-site locations.

Jarrett Prairie Center rental (both levels) from 9 a.m. to Midnight - museum closed to public at 2 p.m.; indoor setup of 10 tables and chairs to seat up to 80 people on main level; indoor setup of 15 tables and chairs to seat up to 120 people on lower level; head table to seat up to 10 people covered and skirted; cake table covered and skirted; guest register table covered and skirted; dance floor setup; access to outdoor deck area with 10 hightop tables covered; linen tablecloths (your choice

of limited colors); changing rooms; portable sound systems with mics on main and lower level; day before setup and rehearsal dinner time - 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; six hours of bartending, two ½ kegs of domestic beer, two bar setups (one on the main floor and the lower level).

Museum Wedding Package - $3,500 Includes: Outdoor ceremony area including the stage, bridge, shelter, and/or other area; outdoor seating for up to 200 guests; two (2) six-foot altar tables setup with linen tablecloths; two (2) hours of rehearsal time; golf cart to shuttle bride to on-site locations; Jarrett Prairie Center Museum rental from 9 a.m. to Midnight - museum closed to public at

2 p.m.; indoor setup of 10 tables and chairs to seat up to 80 people on main level; head table to seat up to 8 people covered and skirted; cake table covered and skirted; guest register table covered and skirted; dance floor setup; access to outdoor deck area with 10 hightop tables covered; linen tablecloths (your choice of limited colors); changing rooms, portable sound system with mics; day before setup and rehearsal dinner time 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; six (6) hours of bartending; one (1) ½ keg of domestic beer.

Blazingstar Wedding Package - $2,000 Includes: Outdoor ceremony area including the stage, bridge, shelter, and/or other area;

See WEDDING PACKAGES, Page 8

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Wedding Packages

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• Wedding packages outdoor seating for up to 150 guests; two (2) six-foot altar tables setup with linen tablecloths, two (2) hours of rehearsal time; golf cart to shuttle bride to onsite locations; Jarrett Prairie Center Lower Level rental from 9 a.m. to Midnight; indoor setup of 15 tables and chairs to seat up to 120 people on lower level; head table to seat up to 8 people covered and skirted; cake table covered and skirted; guest register table covered and skirted; dance floor setup; linen tablecloths (your choice of limited colors); changing rooms; portable sound system with mics; day before setup and rehearsal dinner time 9am-10pm; six (6) hours of bartending; one (1) ½ keg of domestic beer Simple Museum Wedding Package - $1,500 Includes: Jarrett Prairie Center Museum rental from 9am- Midnight museum closed to public at 2pm; setup of 10 tables with chairs to seat up to 80 people on main level; bride and groom table covered and skirted; cake table covered and skirted; guest register table covered and skirted; access to outdoor deck area with 5 hightop tables covered; linen table-cloths (your choice of limited colors); portable

(Continued from page 7)

sound system with microphone Simple Blazingstar Wedding Package - $850 Includes: Jarrett Prairie Center Lower Level rental from 9 a.m. to Midnight; setup of 15 tables with chairs to seat up to 120 people on lower level; bride and groom table covered and skirted; cake table covered and skirted; guest register table covered and skirted; linen tablecloths (your choice of limited colors); portable sound system with microphone.

All wedding packages are for rentals on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and include setup and tear down of 60” round tables white chairs for seating and 6’ rectangular tables for food, head table, and guest register table.

Kitchen facilities are also available which includes a standard size refrigerator with freezer, a stove with oven, a microwave, and sinks.

District staff on duty during event.

Wifi accessibility. With prior approval, photos may be taken indoors and outdoors. Prices subject to change.

Byron Forest Preserve is located at 7993 North River Road, Byron, Ill. For more information call 815-234-8535.

Perfect Place For The Perfect Wedding

Open. Natural. Historic.

The

Book The Baltic Mill

With our beautiful prairie setting, the Wi Byron Forest Preserve is the ideal location Byro for everything from rehearsal dinners to ceremonies to receptions.

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› Great facilities for indoor or outdoor celebrations › Jarrett Prairie Center accommodates 200 guests › All facilities are handicapped accessible › Complete bar service available › Room for DJ or band and dancing; outdoor stage also available › Also perfect for other social and business occasions › Deck that seats up to 150 people

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Byron Forest Preserve District

A special setting for your special day, The Baltic Mill’s unique, natural setting is the ideal choice for an outdoor celebration of your wedding ceremony.

• Offering two cost-effective packages, each includes a three-hour time block for ceremonies, as well as a rehearsal the night before.

• Venue holds 300 guests, all on natural limestone seating.

Call today to schedule a tour of our facility: 815-547-5711 x35 Or visit us at www.belviderepark.org

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

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LAKE LAWN RESORT OFFERS

a lakefront wedding, reception venue Lake Lawn Resort is a perfect destination for Wisconsin weddings. Lake Lawn Resort is just 10 minutes outside of Lake Geneva, and is a popular destination from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, and Rockford. It is southeast Wisconsin’s premier lakefront destination wedding venue!

Enjoy Lake Lawn Resort’s rich history with our modern updates and amenities.

Lake Lawn Resort sits on over two miles of shoreline on Delavan Lake. It’s expansive lakefront features rolling lawns, charming courtyards, and sweeping views of the lake.

Choose from two recentlyrenovated romantic lakefront ceremony sites. Indoors, beamed ceilings, fireplaces, and beautiful views of Delavan Lake are some of the features you will find in our unique Cocktail and Wedding Reception venue spaces.

Our staff is dedicated to sharing your special day and ensuring every detail is taken care of. No request is too small or too large, and with the wide array of amenities offered at Lake Lawn, there is something

for everyone.

From a simple ceremony to a lavish weekend wedding, we can help you experience your once-in-a-lifetime fairy tale. From the moment you begin planning to the moment you leave our historic grounds to start your journey together, our dedicated team of wedding specialists will handle every detail of your special day. We will help you create a warm and inviting setting for your family and friends.

Our many guest room layouts range from our Luxury Lodge Kings and Queens to Lofts and Suites to accommodate any lodging need. Our Lake House provides a fantastic location for the bride and her party to prepare for the wedding day, or for family to gather over the weekend to create lasting memories.

Our Calladora Spa provides massage, facial, makeup, beauty, nail, and hair services, and can accommodate your wedding party and guests. Check with your wedding planner for special arrangements.

In addition, you can take advantage of our Majestic Oaks

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Lake Lawn Resort is just 10 minutes outside of Lake Geneva, and is a popular destination from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, and Rockford.

Golf Course, Miniature-Golf, Boat Tours, Water Sports and Boat Rentals. With rooms and plans to fit all of your

expectations, Lake Lawn Resort will leave your guests with an unforgettable experience that will be remembered fondly for years to come. * Beautiful lakeside venues * Tents and full outdoor amenities for both receptions and ceremonies * 32,000 sq. ft. of indoor reception space that can accommodate up to 400 guests * Venues that complement wedding themes ranging from rustic and whimsical to vintage and classic * Rehearsal dinner * Brunch catering with gift opening options * Award winning chef and catering team who work with each couple to create their own personalized menu * Calladora Spa full service spa provides hair, nail, and makeup services, as well as massage, facial and other skin care. * Bridal showers * Bachelorette parties * Bachelor parties with golf, boating, and fishing outing options * Bridal and honeymoon suites

A1 Dry Cleaners & Laundry A1 Dry Cleaners & Laundry offers professional dry cleaning, laundering, pressing, and alteration services in Rockford, Illinois and the surrounding area.

Locally owned and operated by the Ainsworth family for over 35 years, we consider it our privilege and responsibility to keep your clothing looking its best. We are the area’s foremost cleaner, with the experience and expertise to offer different cleaning methods — not just dry cleaning — to successfully remove spots and stains of varying degrees.

Wedding Gowns & Formal Wear It all starts with a dress! A1 Cleaners pay particular attention to the details, just as they do when they design your beautiful gowns.

Each gown is hand inspected both before and after cleaning, hand finished, and then re-inspected, making sure that all buttons, hems, SUBMITTED PHOTO Winter Bridal embellishments and trims are reinforced and looking their best.

A1 Cleaners can do alterations and preservation of your Whether it’s a night on the town or your big wedding day, A1 Dry weeding gown.

Cleaners & Laundry has got you covered.

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WILL MAKE YOU LOOK GREAT

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MORE COUPLES ARE EMBRACING EDGY, ADVENTUROUS WEDDINGS

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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.

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Tips for a fabulous honeymoon 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.

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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.

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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.

Imagine Your Wedding at White Pines OUTDOOR CEREMONIES IN THE BEAUTIFUL WEDDING CANYON ROMANTIC RECEPTIONS IN A LOG LODGE

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Some Spring & Summer 2020 dates still available

Schedule a Tour 815 946-2400 ext 2104 WhitePinesResort.net

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.

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.

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Band or DJ? How about both?

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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.

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DRY CLEANERS

We can help to preserve your memories You have taken great care every step of the way . . . You spent hours trying to find THE dress. Your groom saw THE dress for the first time when you walked down the aisle . . .

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Now you want to make certain to care for THE dress as a keepsake for years to come.

A1 is the place to care for, clean, and preserve your gown.

Our in-house professionals will care for your dress at our facility here in Rockford.

Your dress will receive the utmost care and attention that it deserves.

Allow us the opportunity to put the ‘final’ touch on your ‘perfect’ day.

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6 Locations

Highcrest Shopping Center 1672 N. Alpine Road Rockford, IL 61107 815-397-4102

East Riverside Center 6322 E. Riverside Blvd.

Loves Park, IL 61111 779-210-3197

1304 Brooke Road Rockford, IL 61109 815-398-9322

340 E. Riverside Blvd.

Loves Park, IL 61111 815-654-0004

845 S. Perryville Rd. Rockford, IL 61108 815-708-7327 Roscoe location is located in the strip mall behind Kelly’s Market Mobil 5211 Elevator Rd. Roscoe, IL 61073 815-623-9400

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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.

Photo shoots provide a chance to get 3. comfortable in front of the camera.

Professional photographs taken before the

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.

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.

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Make healthy habits a part of wedding prep

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.

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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.

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