Upstate Bride - August 2019

BRIDE AUGUST 2019

Upstate

MAGAZINE

Falling in love with

fall

Food and drink stations on the rise What the smart groom is wearing

& More!

BRIDE Upstate

MAGAZINE

Upstate Bride Magazine The Daily Star, 102 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820 Š 2019 - All rights reserved.

Publisher Fred Scheller

Advertising Director Valerie Secor

Upstate Bride Magazine content is provided in part by Gatehouse Media LLC, and distributed by King Features. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the management of the publication.

Layout Tracy Bender

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Call toll-free, 1-800-721-1000, ext 235

Cover photo: PROSTOOLEH / FREEPIK

Falling in love with fall...................................4

DIY wedding checklist.................................16

Guidelines for choosing your bridal veil..............7

Wedding band or DJ?..................................18

Inspiration from the season.............................6 Nature and naturally beautiful..........................8 The history of the wedding cake.....................10 Food and drink stations on the rise..................11 Lace & grace.............................................12 What’s (NOT) hot......................................15

What to know about ring insurance.................17 Will you get married in a necktie or a bowtie?....20 The right way to wear a boutonniere...............19 Choose the perfect hairdo to match your perfect day........................................22 What the smart groom is wearing...................23

August 2019 2 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

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THE SEASON

Falling in love with

fall

ŠADOBESTOCK.COM

There are many advantages to a fall wedding: the weather is gorgeous and so is fall foliage, it’s a season of celebration, choosing fall can result in off-peak wedding deals and bargains.

D

epending upon what part of the country you live in, an outdoor wedding might hold natural appeal and the season offers a chance to create a more unique experience.

But before you fall for fall, take the expanded view of these considerations in mind from the website Here Comes The Guide.

The Weather Holding your wedding indoors or outdoors in the fall greatly depends on the type of weather your region experiences in the fall months. The west coast might be sunny and temperate.

The southwest and south could still be warm. Northern and midwestern states will, obviously, get cooler sooner. Wherever

4 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

the added value of an extra day off for your guests.

The Colors The fall season offers an opportunity to take advantage of a color palette that separates your wedding from the traditional bright whites and spring and summer shades. But you don’t necessarily have to match those deep reds, oranges or browns. Take in the bigger picture of warm tones or choose a modern palette that might feature golds for a glitzy feel, emerald green or plum for a touch of elegance, or neutral shades such as champagne.

The Fabrics Regardless of where you live, and often because of that fact, autumn opens the door to the chance of chillier weather. For cooler climes, your bridesmaid dresses might demand a heavier fabric or accessories for warmth. Deep jewel tones and longsleeved dresses are a natural for fall weddings. Groomsmen should choose navy or gray suits for a sophisticated fall look, perhaps offset by argyle socks or plaid ties.

The Flowers Again, the season provides you a whole new realm of possibilities when choosing flowers. Some of the site’s suggestions: Dahlias for an enchanting wedding bouquet. Deep burgundy varietals are especially elegant.

Garden roses present the perfect alternative to peonies.

Marigolds come in festive fall colors of gold, orange and red.

For arrangements and table decor, look to autumn foliage, seasonal berries and nuts for a modern yet rustic look. ª

Wedding Cakes Specialty Cakes For Any Occasion

you live, keep an eye on the weather as your wedding date nears and be sure to inform your guests of the type of venue and the appropriate dress. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, make a backup plan in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The Holidays Fall is the gateway to the holiday season, with plenty of reason to add your wedding to the celebration calendar. It probably goes without saying, but you might want to avoid holding your wedding near or on major holidays. Other than that, the season is wide open (except for football fans). If you do choose a weekend wedding, look for such holidays as Veteran’s Day that might offer

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THEMES

©ADOBESTOCK.COM

Inspiration from the Season A

lthough the season suggests being open to the outdoors and the beautiful colors, fall can take on many looks when it comes to wedding themes. From vintage to rustic, retro to regal, here are some ideas for themes drawn from the website Ever After Guide.

Bountiful Harvest The fall harvest suggests a colorful combination of oranges and browns that blend perfectly with the season. Everything about a harvest theme harkens a country-style wedding accented by the such unique elements as mason jars, dry leaves, lanterns and candles. Rustic invitations, an outdoor ceremony and a barn reception all complement the theme. The site also suggests wheat boutonnières for the groom and his party, and crowns of fall-hued colors for the bridesmaids.

6 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

Getting hitched in the fall opens up a whole new vista for wedding themes.

A Woodsy Wedding Fall is the perfect season for a woodsy, fairytale theme that plays off earthy materials and twilight hours, whether indoors or outside. Go rustic with decorative elements that include pine cones, leaves, fall flowers and wood accents. A classic color palette includes greens, browns and white, with bohemian-style dresses and floral accessories. Groomsmen can adopt an 18th century look with suit colors that reflect the season, lapeled vests and earth-tone ties.

Vintage Theme A vintage-inspired theme immediately calls to mind the period of the 1920s through the 1940s. Recreating that era offers up myriad ideas encompassing all the charisma and style of the time period that can influence every element of the wedding. Choose antique-style dresses and decor featuring vases and to Gatsbyesque attire and makeup from the golden age. Perfectly elegant and charming for an indoor or outdoor setting.

Wine Country Wedding Wine is a staple of wedding celebrations, so incorporating a wine country theme into your wedding offers a variety of roman-

tic and decorative options. To up the ante, use grapes in centerpieces, add wine barrels and empty wine bottles to the decor against a palette of plums and reds with yellow, brown, gray or green accents. Select invitations that mimic wine labels — and, of course, set up your own wine bar with your favorites and guest recommendations.

Modern, Romantic, Glamorous Fall beckons the romance and glamor in all of us and provides the perfect setting for a softer and modern theme. Soft pinks and grays are as modern and romantic as they are inspired.

Continue the soft hues for wedding decorations, floral decorations and alter decorations. Add a touch of glamor with metallic silver accents for a distinctive classic-modern look. Colorful macaroons, cupcakes and stylish cakes add to the flair. ª

Guidelines for choosing your bridal veil The traditional bridal veil just might be the most archetypal wedding accessory—which is why picking out this special ornament takes time and thought. Follow these three tips to find the one that will suit you perfectly.

1. Aim for balance If your heart is set on an extravagant dress, opt for a subdued and sophisticated veil that won’t outshine your splendid gown. A model with plain satin edging is a safe bet. If, on the other hand, your dress is on the more classic side, feel free to add a touch of sparkle with some crystals, pearls or other trimmings.

2. Play with length Veils come in a number of lengths, from the coquettish birdcage to the majestic train. Every bride can find a version that will complement her dress flawlessly. Don’t be shy about trying on the various models available in your region’s bridal shops.

3. Stay true to your style Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a thrill-seeking rebel, choose a veil that showcases your unique personality.You can also select oneof-a-kind accessories (flowers, jewelry, nails) to create a look that’s one hundred per cent yours.

If you’re still unsure what veil to choose, swing by your local bridal shop and take advantage of a professional salesperson’s experienced eye. He or she will help you find your dream veil in a jiffy! ª

AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 7

VENUES

©ADOBESTOCK.COM

Nature and naturally

BEAUTIFUL Fall lends itself to a variety of charming wedding venue ideas indoors or outside. Each of these suggested vistas can host the perfect setting from rustic to modern, offering couples and their guests a unique experience.

8 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

A

ccess the great outdoors to take advantage of the fall foliage or invite the colors inside. No matter which location you choose, the season provides a bounty of gorgeous color palettes, decor and attire options.

Outdoors Autumn weddings are idealized as outdoor affairs — and for good reason. The temperate weather, the beautiful colors, the romantic and celebratory atmosphere all conspire to almost demand an outdoor wedding. Here are three classic outdoor options.

Farms and barns: No setting guarantees a rustic vibe more than an atmospheric country farm or barn. The outdoors lets nature take care of itself as a setting, but transforming a barn into a receptionworthy venue takes some diligence.

But the result will be entirely memorable and worth the extra trouble.

Vineyards and wineries: Postcard- and picture-perfect, rustic and elegant, choosing a vineyard venue literally says “celebration.”

Pre-stocked with wine, gorgeous and unique settings indoors or outdoors, it’s no wonder vineyards have become popular wedding destinations. Decide early if you’re thinking of a particular destination.

Gardens and forests: Fall weddings are all about nature, and the outdoorsy and nature-lovers will naturally be drawn to a forest- or garden-themed wedding. The value-added, natureprovided decor makes these venues both beautiful and cost-ef-

fective. But take care to plan for a contingency if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

Indoors Pulling off a fall wedding indoors can also be an inviting choice. The weather is no longer a concern and bringing the fall atmosphere indoors is all about the decor. Fall color palettes and decorative elements can be easily adapted at these indoor settings.

Restored warehouses: A different kind of vintage appeal can be easily achieved by booking a restored warehouse for a wedding venue.

Many downtowns have reinvigorated their appeal with restorations that retain a location’s retro elements, and many offer open-air areas.

Features such as vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and natural light offer a warm canvas that can be made fall-perfect.

Cozy inns or hotels: For a more intimate, charming setting in fall, small historic inns, lodges and hotels offer both the warmth and romance of dark, romantic rooms featuring fireplaces as well as terraces and patios that allow guests to bask in the fall weather and foliage.

Botanical gardens or arboretums: No venue could be more in touch with nature and offer large enough covered spaces for weddings that botanical gardens or arboretums. Large windows provide gorgeous vistas of the fall season in all its glory and both settings easily customized with your choice of flowers and other decorative touches that take an indoor fall wedding to the next level. ª

AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 9

The history of the

TRADITIONS

wedding cake

A symbolic gesture The tradition of the wedding cake being sliced by the bride and groom dates back to the Middle Ages. The gesture symbolized the first action taken by the bride and groom as a legitimate couple. Traditionally, the groom rests his hand on the bride’s as a sign of fertility and protection.

10 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

T

he tall, tiered wedding cake—with or without toppers—is one of the most widespread wedding traditions in the western world.You’ve probably tasted a slice or two over the years, but what do you know about the origins of this sweet nuptial custom?

Historians believe that the concept of wedding cakes can be traced back to ancient Rome. At that time, it was customary to break a wafer or loaf of sweet bread over the bride’s head with the goal of invoking happiness and fertility. In medieval Europe, wedding guests typically stacked small pastries as high as possible, and the bride and groom would kiss over the resulting pile of sweetness. The higher the pastry tower was, the happier the couple would be. Sweet, tall, tiered cakes like those seen today in weddings across North America only became commonplace around the eighteenth century.

Nowadays, bakeries create wedding cakes that are true works of art. Anything goes when it comes to the shape, flavor and color—and toppers are no longer limited to the tiny bride and groom model. ª

Food and drink stations on the rise

FOOD

Stations are in.

There’s likely a vision in your head about wedding food, perhaps positively or negatively influenced by past weddings you may have attended.

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©ADOBESTOCK.COM

aybe it was a buffet or limitedchoice meal delivered by waiters.

But don’t let the past lock you in.

There are lots of new choices to consider this year. Here, we’ve collected a “buffet” of trends happening that will hopefully spark your culinary imagination and kick your own wedding event up a notch.

Drinks Stations are in. Instead of a standard bar or roaming waiters, interaction is the keyword for wedding cocktails this year, claims an expert on the website Delish. Flavored syrups, fruits, edible flowers and herbs can be featured for guests to add to their drinks.

Signature cocktails never go out of style, says another expert — but plastic straws have. The movement to eliminate single-use plastics is also trending at weddings, where you’ll see more paper straws and bamboo stir sticks.

Seating

Dessert

A mix of rectangular market tables and round tables are trending, as are wooden market tables. The juxtaposition creates different textures, shapes, dimensions along with textured linens and velvet, the site reports. An uptick in picnic-style seating should blend well for fall weddings held outdoors or in rustic spaces such as barns or warehouses.

The iconic wedding cake also changes with the seasons. The once-popular “naked” cakes have given way to elegance and sophistication with wedding experts seeing more polished creations. To create a decidedly less traditional and fun feel, alternative cakes made of Belgian waffles or pancakes, cinnamon buns and donut cakes are trending options.

Dinner Wedding planner Kylie Carlson reports that the popularity of intimate weddings is leading to couples — especially foodies — developing tasting menus featuring six or seven small courses. The trend toward the less formal continues with wedding dinners.

Roaming dinners in which guests visit food stations turn the event into an extended cocktail hour. The popularity of healthy, locally sourced ingredients is filling the choices at those food stations.

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Late-Night Snacks If you expect your wedding bash to extend into the wee hours, late-night snacks are an expected (and necessary) final touch to the party. Expect to see the food station and healthy trend extend to these snacks, featuring such items as açaí bowls, vegetarian options and cheese and fruit pairings.

For more substantial fare, food trucks continue to dominate in popularity. Look into reserving one. ª

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AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 11

THE DRESS

Lace &grace On-trend gowns reflect a bride’s personality, from traditional to daring

By Melissa Erickson

rides should embody their personal best on their wedding day, whether that means taking the royal route in a princess-worthy ball gown or wearing a trendy jumpsuit or something with a touch of color.

“Brides are now getting their inspiration from a variety of places, everywhere from celebrity weddings to traditional magazines,” said Cassandra Sethi, New York City personal stylist and founder of Next Level Wardrobe. Pinterest and Instagram are major sources of inspiration, said Sethi, who offers personalized wedding styling services from engagement shoots to the big day and brunch after.

Embellishments and accessories Options abound in gown styles, from conventional to fashion-forward.

“While weddings are an exciting time in one’s life and a major moment, it can be a nod to traditions within their culture and family,” Sethi said. “They may choose to wear traditional outfits from their culture and do traditional religious ceremonies. For those brides that want to be more fashion-forward, I noticed that they usually experiment with incorporating some color and/or choose a design that may not be as traditional, such as cutouts, 3-D applique and super-intricate beadwork.”

Designers are going bold with embellishments, Sethi said.

“The 3-D applique is a detail that will really make your gown stand out. It is also a great way to incorporate additional colors or metallics into your gown,” she said.

12 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

Gold, pink, mauve and lavender may not seem like bridal colors, but maybe that’s why they look so good.

“I advise for brides that want to incorporate color somehow to think about how much they want to do. Some want full-on color and some just want a touch of it. What’s most important is that they feel amazing in whatever they choose,” Sethi said.

Beautiful bows are on trend.

“From small, large, multiple — you name it, it is out there,” Sethi said.

Sequins add sparkle and a fun twist on the traditional white dress.

“My wedding gown was all-white sequin for my outdoor wedding and was the perfect amount of bling for me. I was also (pleasantly) surprised to discover that it was very lightweight to wear so it didn’t feel weighed down as I greeted guests, sat down for dinner or danced the night away,” Sethi said.

Intricate lace and beading can take a gown to the next level.

“Berta Bridal is the top example of a designer that falls within this world. Their gowns are absolutely stunning and for the woman who wants to create an unforgettable look through intricate beading details and interesting lacework,” Sethi said.

Capes are giving wedding gowns a regal vibe, and the longer the better.

“The cape look is more modern and has an edge to it. Capes can also serve as an alternative to a veil and adds dimension to your gown,” Sethi said.

PHOTOS: MASATO ONODA, COURTESY WATTERS BRIDAL

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Gown alternatives Some modern brides are looking for an alternative to tradition when it comes the wedding and their gowns, but Sethi advises first considering the season and context.

“I would highly recommend a jumpsuit or pantsuit when in doubt about what to wear,” she said. These are comfortable and look elegant and sophisticated on many body types, Sethi said. Plus, it’s a great trend if you have multiple wedding events and want to switch up your looks throughout, and better for a destination wedding from a packing perspective, she said.

“At the end of the day, this is your special day along with your partner’s. It is important to feel beautiful, comfortable and authentic in whatever you decide to wear,” Sethi said. “Also, remember that there will most likely be a lot of video and photos taken, so it is worthwhile to make sure every little detail is taken care of, from your clothing, coordination to your partner, hair, makeup and everything in between.” ª

AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 13

What’s (NOT) hot Sometime we focus so much on what’s trendy, we lose sight of trends that have seen better days.

So much of wedding advice is based on predictions based on trends that haven’t even occurred, but the untrendy is easier to target.

Like so many things in our quickly changing times, these “trends to ditch,” as one top bridal site referred to them, are best avoided.

Here’s an incomplete list top wedding planners say has to go.

Which is to say, things will change.

Welcome bags. Guests often leave these well-thought-out gifts behind, claims a top wedding planner. Better to give a nice bottle or wine, a handwritten note or a donation to charity in the names of the guests of honor.

Photo booths: Exchange for video or virtual reality booths.

Wedding favors.

Doughnut walls.

“Naked” wedding cakes and tables.

TRENDS

Showing off. Planners suggest a return to more heartfelt, personal expressions of love and gifts.

After parties.

First looks. Guests are making a return to the excitement.

All-inclusive options. Less cookie-cutter, more a time-saver.

Short engagements. Makes more fall weddings likely.

Ivory/white wedding dresses.

Black and colorful dresses are becoming more popular.

Palm leaves. So 2018.

Pastel and copper. Brighter, richer colors are in for a range of settings and decor.

Traditional transportation.

More fire trucks and Teslas, fewer limos.

Shabby chic. Less of the former, more of the latter.

Buffets. Planners are seeing more stations and pre-set tables.

Bad hashtags. Skip the puns, keep it timeless and classic.

Unclear dress codes. Formal means formal, but otherwise, guests appreciate clarity.

Changing dresses. The time it takes to make multiple changes impacts the bride’s experience.

Monograms. Use them sparingly, if it all.

Fake hedge walls. Plastic hedges? No thanks.

Video mapping. Dramatic on building facades, not so much on cakes.

Too many dinner choices. Slows the flow, adds to the budget.

Bouquet tosses. Your girlfriends are too busy on their smartphones to catch them. ª

PHOTOS ©ADOBESTOCK.COM

AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 15

PLANNING

DIY wedding checklist So you’re engaged! Wonderful! Now comes the planning.

P

lanning a wedding can be a beautiful headache and a second job. Deciding who will decorate, cater, provide the entertainment and photograph the event are all choices that can make or break the perfect wedding day. Here is a helpful checklist designed to ease process.

Decide on Your Style Whether you’ve already spent years planning your eventual wedding or you’re just getting started, compiling all the ideas you’ve culled from bridal magazines and friends’ weddings into a binder will help you narrow your focus, from the venue to the decor, the theme to the all-important dress.

pleased with the end results.

Make a Guest List The size of your wedding party will determine many elements of your wedding. Sitting down as a couple and making the easy and the tough decisions will spare both of you unnecessary disappointment.

Save the Date, Reserve the Venues

Create a Budget

Once you’ve chose a wedding date, now’s the time to choose the venue or venues (if the ceremony and reception are separate venues). If the venues aren’t local, factor in travel and be sure your guests are willing and able to make the special trip with as much advance notice as possible.

Paying for your dream wedding is based on a variety of factors, but most importantly a budget will be determined how much you will rely on parents or your own money. Either way, creating a realistic budget will help you stay focused and

The people you choose to serve and host your wedding will play a huge role in the celebration. Choosing professionals in each category — from the caterer to the florist, the officiant to the band or DJ and

16 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

Booking the Vendors

photographer or videographer — as early as possible and with the proper amount of diligence and investigation will ensure your wedding day goes off as planned without a hitch, so to speak.

In This Order …

Purchase the dress.

Register.

Select and purchase the invitations.

Plan the honeymoon.

Book the rehearsal venue and dinner.

Order the cake.

Purchase the rings.

Send the invitations.

Have a party.

Get your wedding license.

Purchase gifts.

Choose or write your vows.

Stay calm. The Big Day is at hand.

Congratulations — you’re married! ª

What to know about

ring insurance may not be used to wearing a ring. So the chances of it getting lost or damaged during day-to-day activities as seemingly benign as washing your hands, going to the gym or removing gloves in cold weather are quite high.”

By Melissa Erickson

hen you start rocking a ring on your left hand, the first thing you think about probably isn’t insurance, but an engagement ring is one of the most important and valuable items a person owns.

Most often consumers “are truly not informed of the implications of their engagement ring not being properly insured,” said Tyler Krowiorz, brand marketing manager at Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group.

The average value of an engagement ring is $5,700, according to a 2017 The Knot survey.

“It makes sense to do due diligence around insurance options for that new engagement ring before making a decision,” Krowiorz said. “It’s worn every day, everywhere. And the bride-to-be

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Policies vary from carrier to carrier, but an engagement ring is usually covered under a standard homeowners insurance or renters policy.

“However, the limits are what becomes

important here,” Krowiorz said.

The standard limit ranges between $1,500 and $2,500.

“That means if your ring is over that value, and you lose it, you’ll be responsible for the balance out of pocket if you want to replace it,” Krowiorz said.

One option is to add a “floater” or “rider” to your policy that provides additional coverage specific to the ring and its amount, Krowiorz said.

The danger is if you make a claim on a lost, damaged or stolen ring, it could raise your rates, he said.

“An additional option would be insuring your engagement ring with a carrier who specializes in jewelry.

This ensures you’re getting comprehensive coverage specific to your piece that would cover you against loss, theft, damage and mysterious disappearance,” Krowiorz said. ª

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AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 17

MUSIC

SENIVPETRO / FREEPIK

Wedding band or DJ? No reception is complete without music.

The couples’ preferences have to be balanced with entertaining their guests. So, the big decision becomes, hire a band or a DJ? Here’s a list of pros and cons to both and how ensure you get the best entertainment value for your money.

Many couples want to share their union with family and friends.

But they also have to feed and entertain guests after the ceremony.

Budget As you might guess, bands are more expensive than DJs. But live music can create a specific atmosphere that can’t be achieved by a DJ. On the other hand, DJs can tailor music to a wide variety of preferences from the original artists. Check around online to get a feel for what either might cost and weigh your musical desires against your budget. Or split the difference — have a band play at the ceremony and a DJ spin at the reception.

The Vibe The size and type of your wedding event 18 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

will dictate the vibe. If it’s a small, quiet ceremony and brief reception, the romantic feel created by a string quartet might be the perfect background music. If it’s an all-out bash with large numbers of people, a DJ might be the right choice to meet a variety of tastes and requests. But traditional wedding bands are also adept at playing a wide variety of music and can act as a focal point for guests who don’t want to dance, according to the Wedding Wire.

Theme and Venue If your wedding has a theme, you might want to reflect that mood in the music. Make sure the band or DJ can meet your requirements.

Also take into account the venue and any restrictions. A band will need a larger performance space than a DJ, of course, and special power and logistics may be involved (stages, amplifiers and PA systems, lights, etc.).

Music and Reviews Whether you choose a band or a DJ, you’ll have some musical preferences, so ask either to send you a suggested playlist based on these choices and any music that is of particular interest (first dance, ethnic or theme music). Don’t forget to include the ability to handle requests from guests. Professional entertainers will be more than happy to also send you references and links to video of past performances. The bandleader or DJ will also act as an MC for the event, so get a feel for their personality.You might want to take in a live performance to gauge the music and rapport with an audience.

Availability and Costs Because top wedding bands and DJs are in demand, make sure you choose with enough advance notice to ensure availability on you wedding date. Six months in advance is good time to begin the booking process. Cost, of course, is also a factor.You’ll want to decide if they’ll play through the entire event or just the reception. Four hours of music is a good baseline to begin from when negotiating, but ask about overtime if the party goes into overdrive.

The Show Make sure your band or DJ can dress and present their show appropriately. Fog machines and disco balls probably won’t work well with a black-tie event. Express this early on and share any themes or the venue location so the look of the show will match.

Professional DJs and bands will always be prepared to reflect the

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vibe of almost any wedding ceremony or reception.

The Deal After you’ve covered all these bases, it’s time to seal the deal with a contract. Within the contract, the specific terms of the length or the performance and any overtime costs should be covered, as well as break times, deposits and the refund policy should the show fall short of expectations. Also, if the bandleader or DJ you meet becomes ill or unavailable on the date of the event, ask who will replace them and set up a time to meet with them as well. ª

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Will you get married in a necktie or a bowtie?

You popped the question, got a yes, and now you’re planning every detail of your wedding day. Future husband—it’s time to think about what you’ll be wearing when you exchange your vows! The dilemma is quite real: will you choose a necktie or a bowtie to finish off your look? Here are some thoughts to help you make this important decision.

The bowtie: a classic You can’t go wrong with the traditional bowtie. Match it with your tuxedo for a sophisticated look, or dare to be different with a velvet, knit or wooden bowtie that matches your wedding’s color scheme. Show stopping looks guaranteed in any case.

The tie: a more relaxed option Thinking of getting married in a suit and tie? Go for it! The good old necktie has become a popular option for the modern groom. From the distinguished traditional version to more avantgarde options, ties are available in endless patterns, colors and textures.You’re sure to find one that fits your personal style to a t.

Have you decided yet? If you’re still on the fence, ask a stylist or knowledgeable salesperson for advice. ª Tying the knot — Choosing your tie is the easy part; you’ll also need to learn how to knot it to perfection. If you aren’t comfortable with the idea of doing it yourself, ask your best man or your dad. They may have some tips for you—or they’ll simply take care of it for you on the big day.

20 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2019

The right way to wear a boutonniere

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any grooms choose to follow the tradition of wearing a small floral accessory called a boutonniere on their wedding day. If you’re about to put a ring on your sweetheart’s finger, read on to find out how you should wear your boutonniere.

First off, know that this accessory isn’t an essential part of the groom’s traditional attire and that many prefer to opt for the subtler handkerchief. So don’t worry—you’re free to wear whatever you think looks best. If you do choose to say yes to this floral adornment, here’s how to wear it: • Attach it to the lapel of your suit or jacket • Always pin it on your left side, above your heart • Choose a delicate or magnetized fastener to avoid damaging your jacket • Make it match your bride’s bouquet (this is not optional!)

• Match it to your wedding’s color palette ª

Who should wear it?

If the groom decides to wear a boutonniere, all male members of the wedding procession must follow suit. This means that the important men in the groom’s entourage—his father, godfather and groomsmen, for instance— should all sport the boutonniere with pride.

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AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 21

Choose the perfect hairdo to match your perfect day A wedding day that’s also a bad hair day is one of the million preoccupations of most brides-to-be.

Choosing how you’ll wear your hair on the big day is no easy task, either.

Here are some tips for picking the perfect ‘do for saying “I do”.

Make an appointment with your stylist for a hairdressing test (or several) at least a month before the big day.

To prepare for your appointment, browse through magazines or search online for inspiration. Make sure you have a good grasp on your likes and dislikes when it comes to your hair.

Be ready to clearly and accurately express your preferences, expectations, and even your worries to your stylist.

A good stylist will help you find a style that’s suited to your personality and physical features. He or she will consider several factors to create the

most flattering of ‘dos, including: • Your personal style • Your dress • Your face shape • Your hair type • When and where your wedding will take place When the big day finally arrives, remember to bring your dress and your veil with you to your hair appointment so you can get a clear picture of your final look. Bring some friends along, and don’t forget your camera to immortalize the affair! ª To make sure your wedding hairdo is everything you want it be, take your tresses on a test run by planning a practice appointment (or two).

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What the

SMART GROOM is wearing

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

PHOTO COURTESY THE BLACK TUX

W

hile all eyes tend to be on the bride, a groom’s style needs to be on point, too.

“While the bride will be stunning, the groom should feel just as special on his wedding. A welltailored suit or tuxedo will surely turn some heads as well,” said Joseph Abboud, chief creative director at Men’s Wearhouse.

Start by thinking about what the ideal wedding looks like, said Brice Pattison, fashion director at The Black Tux, a suit rental company with store and online options.

“If the vision is formal, wear black tie. If not, wear a suit,” he said. “Once that is determined, then I would suggest considering set and setting — meaning rural versus urban, day versus evening, spring versus autumn — and opting for color, pattern and material that complements.

A simple rule of thumb I use is the more sunlight there is at the event, the lighter the color of suit.”

“While tuxedos and suits are

the most popular attire for a groom, they don’t always have to be black,” Abboud agreed.

“They can be navy, charcoal or light gray and are all equally as elegant, but offer an unexpected twist.”

Non-tux options A suit is a great choice for a wedding.

“Dress it up by adding a vest or take a non-traditionalist approach by pairing it with a fun bow tie, a sweater or a pair of suspenders. This is the perfect choice for those who are looking for a more modern option,” Abboud said. “We are also seeing a lot of mixing and matching with different patterns and texture, with beautiful dinner jackets on the red carpet.”

“If you can’t decide between tux or suit, there’s a third option that’s been gaining popularity in recent years,” said Chris Easter, co-founder of The Man Registry.

“A tuxedo-suit hybrid is perfect for grooms who want a formal look but love the feel of a suit.

This hybrid features aspects from each style, boasting satin on the lapels and cloth buttons down the front of the jacket.”

One big question to be answered is, rent or buy.

“Budget always plays a factor. It will be cheaper to rent, although you may get long-lasting value out of purchasing,” Easter said.

A well-tailored garment is the most important fashion trend, so consider having one custom made if possible, Abboud said.

Personalize it Men shouldn’t be afraid to stand out.

“We have seen more wedding couples opt for bolder outfits for the groom than in past years, such as wearing a rose shawl collar tuxedo,” Pattison said.

“Additionally, more grooms are changing into a new dinner jacket from the wedding ceremo-

ny to the reception, which aligns with many brides changing their dresses for the reception.”

“My favorite way to add a dash of personality to a suit or tux is to accessorize the lapel,” Easter said. “Lapel decor can range from the basic boutonniere to a pin that represents the groom’s personality, interest or family.

Think guitar, airplane, deer antlers, sports team insignias, etc.

This is instant personality that’s subtle enough to not take over the look.”

Just don’t wait until the last minute.

“The groom should complete his suit or tuxedo fitting no later than 60 days prior to the wedding,” Abboud said. ª

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AUGUST 2019 | UPSTATE BRIDE MAGAZINE | 23

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