Bridal 2017

Bridal Planner THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD | 2017

Select a

Comfortable

Wedding Gown

Stunning Engagement Ring Alternatives

www.times-herald.com/bridal

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2017 BRIDAL PL ANNER

2017

Bridal Planner is an advertising product of

THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD

Content provided by Metro Creative Graphics

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR Colleen D. Mitchell ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Katie Atwood Misha Benson Mandy Inman Jennifer Patterson LAYOUT AND DESIGN BY: Debby Dye, Graphics Manager Sandy Hiser, Graphic Designer Sonya Studt, Graphic Designer

The Newnan Times-Herald, Inc. 16 Jefferson Street, Newnan, GA 30263 P. O. Box 1052, Newnan, GA 30264 (mailing)

770-253-1576

Also online at: www.times-herald.com/bridal

HERE WE GO!

Planning Made E asy

Congratulations! You and the person of your dreams are embarking on a new life together, and we couldn’t be happier for you. It’s time to create a day you and your loved ones will never forget.

Sound impossible? Hardly! Just let us show you how.

Changing attitudes and a changing economy have changed the way couples get married. Today’s couples are being more mindful of their budgets — but they’re not letting that get in the way of throwing an awesome party! Our 2017 Bridal Planner will guide you through all the moments of the big day.

Our experts’ tips will show you how to make the most of your time, energy and budget, while keeping your wedding’s style and fun factor sky high.

Dive in. Follow our tips. Plan a wedding that your guests won’t soon forget.

In this issue 15 Wedding Planner Checklist 16 Travel 18 Engagement Form 19 Wedding Form 20 Dance 20 Photography

4 Venue & Rentals 8 Food & Drinks 10 Fashion & Beauty 12 Cakes 12 Flowers 13 Jewelry 14 Gifts

Index of Advertisers 3 11 5

6 16 7 9 4 9

Amazing Lash An Affair to Remember Coweta County Fairgrounds & Conference Center Coweta Equipment Rental, Inc. GPS Vacations Historic Moreland Mill Kimble's Events by Design Lillian Gardens The Loft at Due South

13 6 5 11 9 10 15 8 14 17

Lyons & Boorne Design Studio The Newnan Centre Newnan-Coweta Historical Society Pontoni Hair Design & Skin Care Popped! Gourmet Popcorn & Fun Treats Rachel's Dance Connection Treasures Old & New Tulla White Cuisine & Catering Typo Market Uniglobe Travel Partners

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2017 BRIDAL PLAN NER

VENUE & RENTALS

Factors to Consider When Hosting an

Outdoor Wed d ing M

any couples tie the knot outdoors, as nature can provide an idyllic backdrop on such a special day. In many ways, planning outdoor weddings is similar to planning weddings that take place with a roof overhead and four walls surrounding couples and their guests. But there are some distinct features of both indoor and outdoor weddings, and couples planning the latter would be wise to consider the following factors before they commit to a location for their ceremony.

Laws Laws dictate what can and cannot be done in open spaces, and couples with outdoor locations in mind should confirm local laws and regulations before they commit to a location for their wedding. Research which permits you might need and if there are any rules or restrictions at each location you are considering.

Discuss these rules with each other to determine if the rules are something both of you can live with.

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Photo by: Timothy Fernandez Photography

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VENUE & RENTALS Location Proximity to your reception venue and the hotel where guests are staying is another factor to consider if you are planning on hosting an outdoor wedding. A remote location might provide stunning views and privacy, but guests might tire if the ceremony location is far from the hotel and/or reception venue.

This should not be too big an issue if the ceremony and reception are held at the same locale, but couples should still look for nearby lodging before booking remote outdoor locations.

Weather Weather is perhaps the biggest factor couples must consider when planning an outdoor wedding. Outdoor weddings are best held during those seasons when the threat of precipitation is insignificant and temperatures are mild, but it’s still necessary to have a backup plan just in case Mother Nature does not want to cooperate. If possible, find an outdoor location that provides access to an indoor ceremony facility in case of inclement weather. If that’s not possible, monitor the forecast as closely as possible and arrange for a tent to be erected should rain start to fall.

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Logistics No matter how beautiful a backdrop may be, photos of an outdoor ceremony can be compromised. Couples, along with their photographers, should visit the site in the weeks before their weddings to determine arrangements for the ceremony that will guarantee photos are not compromised by sunlight or shade.

A run-through at the location with your photographer in tow can help ensure your photos come out perfect. BP

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when yourhosting

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Coweta County offers two facilities to make any special occasion EASY and CONVENIENT.

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ASA M. POWELL, SR. EXPO CENTER 197 Temple Ave., Newnan Patricia Hood 770-252-6429

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2017 BRIDAL PL ANNER

VENUE & RENTALS

Host a Successful Event with the Help of a Catering Hall

S

pecial occasions often call for special venues.

Catering halls are capable of hosting big and small parties, making them worthy of consideration for hosts looking to impress.

While catering halls are most often associated with weddings, such venues can host everything from birthdays to religious rites of passage to anniversary parties and more.

Catering hall staff can guide clients through the booking, preparation and hosting of their events.

The following tips can help anyone develop a good relationship with a caterer en route to hosting a fun and memorable party.

Think about the size of the venue. Catering halls can cater to parties of various sizes.

When choosing a venue for the party, hosts should keep the comfort of their guests in mind.

Guests should be able to move around and not feel as though they are sitting on top of one another at the tables. Halls can be too big as well. Rooms that are too large for the guest list can feel uncomfortable and make guests feel isolated.

Develop a budget. Budget should factor into hosts’ decisions regarding a catering hall. Speak with the catering manager prior to booking and be sure that there is a package that will fit into your budget.

When examining catering packages, hosts can discuss

if certain substitutions or amendments can be made to packages to meet their needs and the needs of their guests.

Consider the location.

Proximity to public transportation, highways and hotels is an important

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consideration. Guests should be able to get to and from the venue with ease.

Explore the amenities.

Amenities, such as outdoor gardens or gazebos for photo opportunities, can add to the experience of throwing a party

at a catering hall.

Don’t forget the food. Be sure to taste-test the menu to determine if the food is up to par. Catering halls can be beautiful, but the food should meet hosts’ expectations as well. BP

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PREMIERE EVENTS VENUE

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VENUE & RENTALS

7

Save

Your Rainy Wedding Day

N

ature can make a couple’s wedding day that much more special.

Beautiful backdrops like lush gardens or rolling country hills lend a lot to a wedding.

But Mother Nature is the inherent risk of hosting an outdoor wedding. Weather is unpredictable, and couples must develop a contingency plan just in case.

Find a place to take photos.

Many couples arrange for outdoor photos whether they’re tying the knot indoors or outdoors. If possible, walk the grounds of your ceremony or reception site with your

photographer in the weeks before the wedding to scout out potential areas to shoot indoors in case the weather is not cooperating. Ask a representative from the venue to recommend potential photo locations around the building.

Consider a tent. Some wedding venues are exclusively outdoors, meaning they don’t have backup options indoors on their premises. If that’s the case, couples can rent tents to serve as their safety nets.

Establish a cutoff time.

Depending on how remote the ceremony location is, couples

Historic

might be able to wait until a few hours before their weddings to decide if they will still tie the knot outdoors. Establish a cutoff time to let guests know if the wedding will be indoors or outdoors. Include such information on your wedding website and/or invitations. Use a social media platform such as Facebook or Twitter to inform guests of your final decision.

Provide umbrellas. Some inclement weather may not be enough to deter couples or guests from braving the great outdoors. Couples getting married may be able to withstand a summer shower,

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but provide guests with umbrellas just to be safe. The umbrellas will make for a nice wedding gift, and hopefully guests won’t even need them.

Insure the wedding. Couples who are hosting destination weddings on tropical isles should look into insuring their weddings. Such islands might be susceptible to harmful storms like hurricanes that can prevent weddings from taking place. Insurance can cover couples for a host of unforeseen circumstances, including weather. BP

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2017 BRIDAL PL ANNER

FOOD & DRINKS

Use Cuisine D

to Create a Wedding to Remember

espite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding, it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun.

Therefore, instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles, or whether the cake should have an extra tier, couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus.

Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy.

Here are some other tips.

• You want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor. If you’re planning on several courses, keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered.

• Classic foods can work well as wedding fare. Roasts, barbecued meats and favorite pasta dishes can make guests feel like they’re dining at someone’s home and not at a wedding.

• Choose items people have heard of.

Just because a dish sounds fancy doesn’t make it taste better. If a guest doesn’t know what he or she is eating, it can be uncomfortable.

• Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding.

Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny, waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation.

• Don’t make vegetarians an afterthought. Too often, vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together.

Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious.

• No idea is silly, and serving any type of food in a hors d’oeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair, whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers.

• Just because it isn’t on the menu doesn’t mean it cannot be prepared. Provided you’re willing to pay a little more, there’s a good chance you can have items that aren’t on the standard catering menu.

• Think outside the box for your cocktail hour “bars.” A bread bar, a dipping station, milk and cookies service, or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations.

By choosing foods your guests will love and rave about, you’re guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding. BP

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2 0 1 7 B R I D A L PL AN N ER

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The Loft at Due South A Special Event Center in Peachtree City, Georgia

THE LOFT at Due South combines the celebrated cuisine of Due South Southern Cuisine with a polished elegance that fuses perfectly for your special event. Our venue supports Rehearsal Dinners, Corporate Events, Wedding Receptions, All Day Meetings, and Family Events. THE LOFT at Due South is comprised of 3 separate rooms, The Main Ballroom, The Augusta Room (a/v equipped), and The Savannah Room (a/v equipped). Two seated balconies offer a very unique perspective on the surrounding area.

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THE LOFT at Due South 678-251-2225 Due South 770-629-5847 302 Clover Reach Peachtree City, Georgia 30269 Email: theloftatduesouth@gmail.com

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Select a

Comfortable

Gown Wedding

M

any brides-to-be visit bridal shops with specific goals in mind regarding the style of their wedding gowns. Some women come equipped with magazine tear-outs or pull up ideas on their mobile phones.

Others may have an entire scrapbook filled with various ideas they’ve been compiling for years.

Much consideration is given to wedding gowns. The cost and silhouette of the dress may garner the bulk of that consideration, but brides might want to spend more time considering comfort.

Depending on the time of day their weddings take place, brides can spend 12 hours or more in their wedding gowns on their wedding day. However, when shopping for their gowns, brides may prioritize beauty over comfort, even though it’s entirely possible to find a gown that’s both stunning and comfortable. When staff and friends or family who have come along to offer advice start to blush over wedding gowns, brides-to-be may feel pressured to downplay any discomfort they feel.

To make sure brides look flawless and elegant but are still comfortable in their wedding gowns, consider the following tips.

Know what to highlight and what to cover up. No two body types are the same, and many women feel certain parts of their bodies are their best assets while they want to downplay others. Try on gowns that play up your best features. If you have shapely legs, consider a dramatic gown with a slit to show them off. Certain

2 0 1 7 B R I D A L P L AN N ER

FASHION & BEAUTY gowns can enhance the decollete or show off an hourglass shape.

Remember, many gowns can be modified so that you feel secure and confident. Sleeves can be added or fabric placed to cover up any perceived flaws. Confidence and pride are important parts of the comfort factor.

Get sized correctly. Bridal gown sizes do not coincide with street sizes. Depending on the manufacturer, brides may have to select gowns that are several sizes larger than they would normally wear. This should not be a cause for alarm. Brides should go by their measurements. Attempting to squeeze into a dress that is too small will only lead to discomfort on the wedding day.

Purchase the right undergarments. Improperly fitting bras, shapewear and other undergarments can lead to discomfort as well. Some seamstresses can sew in supportive cups to remove the need for separate bras. Brides can explore various options to reduce the visibility of certain accoutrements.

Move around in the gown. Brides should not just stand in front of the mirror and smile when trying on gowns. Put them through their paces. Try sitting, bending and even a little dancing. Make sure the dress is comfortable to move around in.

Try different options. The gown brides have in mind may not be the one they ultimately go home with. Explore different styles and materials. Choose cooler, breezier fabrics and lightweight gowns, like crĂŞpe, georgette or organza, for summer weddings.

Heavier fabrics, such as brocade, may be more comfortable in the winter.

Wedding gowns can be both beautiful and comfortable for those who know how to shop. BP

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2017 BRIDAL PLAN NER

CAKES

Cake _cut ting Etiquette and Guidelines

T

he presentation of the wedding cake marks the culmination of the day’s festivities and a final symbol of a happy couple’s new partnership.

Many people eagerly await the cake as much as they may anticipate catching a glimpse of the bride in her beautiful gown.

The cake cutting usually comes near the end of the

wedding reception. Schedule the cutting so that older guests or young children can leave without feeling as if they would be offending anyone. The emcee of the evening typically announces the cake cutting, and the band may play a quirky tune or revisit the wedding song while the first slice is being cut.

A bride should hold the cake

knife with her right hand, while the groom places his right hand over hers before they proceed to slice down together. If the cake has a foam or cardboard support, be careful not to cut through it.

Use a cake server to grab the first piece.

Traditionally the newly betrothed will feed each other a bite of the cake to symbolize their first meal as a couple.

Couples can feed each other a small amount, taking care not to spill any. Many couples no longer embrace the oncepopular tradition of smashing cake in each other’s faces, but whether or not couples follow this tradition is up to them.

Some couples like to serve their parents a piece of cake.

Traditionally the bride should serve the groom’s parents and the groom the bride’s parents.

If there is a groom’s cake, guests may prefer a slice of

both cakes. Guests may also want to take home a slice of the groom’s cake. Make arrangements for proper packaging of the groom’s cake, so guests can take home a slice if they so desire.

The waitstaff typically handles the slicing of the cake.

The uppermost tier is reserved for the couple to save, and the remainder of the cake will be served.

Recognize that not all guests like cake, but it’s better to err on the side of caution and have a cake that will feed all of the guests. You also may want to offer a dessert bar for guests who prefer another type of sweet treat.

The cake-cutting ritual at weddings has withstood the test of time, and many couples still prefer to present the cake with fanfare and excitement.

BP

FLOWERS

T

Flowers in Various Ways

Incorporate

oday, flowers are used to decorate wedding venues, impart sweet fragrances and complement formal attire, but in ancient times they were used differently. Flowers were used to bestow good luck on the couple and keep bad omens away. Brides carried aromatic flowers and spices to keep evil spirits from spoiling the festivities, and some even tucked bulbs of garlic into their bouquets.

Besides warding off spirits or hungry trolls, flowers also served more practical purposes throughout history. During the Middle Ages, people bathed

less frequently than they do today. Bathing might only have occurred twice a year, once during summer and then again at Christmas time. Because many weddings took place in the spring, flowers were used to mask bodily odors. Not only were flowers and herbs carried, but they also would be sewn into clothing.

Modern brides and grooms may no longer see their wedding days as times for opportunistic evil spirits. But that doesn’t mean that couples cannot borrow from ancient traditions and incorporate flowers into their weddings in various ways.

Wreaths and garlands: Ask the florist to weave small flower buds, berries and vines to a headband, wreath or piece of twine so that the bride and groom can wear these flowers in the way they were worn by ancient Greeks and Romans. When coupled with Grecian-styled wedding gowns, brides can look like beautiful goddesses on their wedding days.

these sachets to keep clothings smelling fresh in drawers or as subtle air fresheners.

Fragrant favors: Tuck dried rose petals and other fragrant flowers into sachets that are embroidered with the wedding date and couple’s names. Guests can use

Memorial: Some couples like to honor departed family members.

Floral arrangements with small placards can make for fitting memorials. BP

Edible flowers: Ask the caterer to make meals flower-friendly by including some edible blooms in the salad or as a garnish on meals.

Raining petals: In lieu of bubbles or birdseed, guests can shower the newlyweds with rose petals after the ceremony.

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JEWELRY

Stunning Engagement Ring Alternatives

W

hite diamonds have been the traditional engagement ring stones for decades. While shoppers have experimented with gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals for ring bands, the star of the show has long been that twinkling, pristine diamond.

Even though diamonds may be a “girl’s best friend” they may not fit every woman’s style, particularly the bride who likes to buck tradition and think outside the box. According to Money magazine, the average engagement ring costs more than $5,800.

In addition to being one of the most expensive gemstones, diamonds have become quite commonplace. Some women even eschew diamonds for moral reasons.

Whatever the driving force behind shopping for alternative gems, women who want to set themselves apart from others — and men who want to “wow” their significant others with unique and eye-catching rings — may opt for other dazzling stones.

Moissanite: This crystal naturally occurs in meteorites and is nearly as hard, dense and scuff-resistant as a diamond. Some feel moissanite offers more brilliance and fire than diamonds. Moissanite is a white-colored stone, so it can mimic the look of a diamond. And since it can be made in the laboratory at a fraction of the cost of even lab-made diamonds, it’s a frugal option. A nearly flawless one-carat moissanite gem can cost less than $1,000.

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Lemon quartz: This is the trade name for a lemon-yellow stone that is a variety of color-enhanced transparent quartz. Quartz is turned into this sunny hue through an artificial gamma ray irradiation process.

Like other quartz gemstones, lemon quartz is considered to be very durable and is therefore suitable for all types of jewelry.

Sapphire: Sapphires tend to be blue stones (of varying intensity), but they also come in peach, pink, yellow, green, and white. Sapphire may not sparkle as much as a diamond or even moissanite. However, with the right cut, it can be hard to distinguish any lack of luster.

Sapphires are the third hardest mineral, and at about one-third the price of diamonds, they make an ideal diamond substitute.

Morganite: According to the blog Bridal Musings, morganite is currently one of the most popular choices for engagement rings. Its pretty pink hue is romantic and feminine. It also sits at around the same hardness as sapphires, ensuring the rings will endure.

Vividly cut rubies, emeralds and tanzanite — all gems that are rarer yet less expensive than diamonds — can make beautiful engagement rings. Some couples also may opt for rings without gemstones, such as traditional Claddagh or “true lover’s knot” rings to signify their union. BP

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2017 BRIDAL PLA NNER

Build a Registry to

Relish R

egistries are a wedding tradition, not unlike a couple’s first dance or the best man/maid of honor toast. But as practical as wedding registries are, many couples approach their registries with a degree of hesitation, fearful that they might appear presumptuous or simply uncertain about what to include on their lists. The following tips can help engaged couples build a registry to relish and utilize for years to come.

Establish an online registry. Whereas guests once had to visit a couple’s favorite retailer(s) and ask what remained on their registry, online registries now allow well-meaning family members and friends to peruse potential gifts from the comforts of home and ship gifts directly to the couple. Online registries even indicate which items have already been

GIFTS purchased, saving couples the trouble of returning duplicates while reassuring buyers that their gifts are fulfilling a need or want.

Share your registry information on your wedding website and stationery. Guests need to know where you are registered, so share that information on your wedding website and include it on your save-the-date cards and invitations.

Register with multiple retailers.

By registering with more than one retailer, couples can give their guests more options to choose from. Include brick-and-mortar stores so guests who prefer to shop in-person won’t be forced to buy online.

Don’t be afraid to list expensive items. While few guests will break the bank to buy wedding gifts, that does not mean couples should avoid including expensive items on their registries. Some couples might feel it’s inappropriate, but it can actually prove practical. Many stores offer couples steep discounts on items they listed on their registries that ultimately were not

purchased. If you have your eye on an especially expensive item, include it on your list without worrying about how it may look to your guests, as they will understand when you explain the postwedding discount you’re eligible for.

Don’t limit your registry to expensive items. While it’s perfectly acceptable to include expensive items on your registry, remember that variety is the spice of life when adding items to your registry. Include items at a range of price points for guests working with various budgets. Don’t hesitate to include low-cost items, as some guests may enjoy building a wedding gift basket with various affordable items from your registry.

Remember that no gift is too obscure. Thanks to the Internet, just about any item can now be tracked down by ambitious gift givers.

Encourage donations. If you are truly hesitant to ask for gifts or you’re tying the knot later in life and already have everything you need, encourage guests to donate to a favorite charity in lieu of making a donation. BP

GIFTS

WEDDING PLANNER

✓ CHECKLIST

1690 Hwy 34 E • Newnan

The wedding planner checklist is categorized by a timeline based on the date of your engagement to the day of your wedding. At the top of the checklist will be items that need to be addressed within 9 to 12 months from the time of your engagement. Then, the time frames are as follows: 6 to 9 months before, 4 to 6 months before, 2 to 4 months before, 6 to 8 weeks before, 4 to 6 weeks before, two weeks before, one week before, the day before, and the day of your wedding.

1. Names of the loved ones in your wedding party 2. Announce your engagement 3. Guest list 4. Wedding gown 5. Tuxedos for the groom and wedding party 6. Maid of honor and bridesmaids’ dresses 7. Flower girl(s) and ring bearer 8. Wedding favors 9. Accommodations for out-of-town guests 10. Wedding rings 11. Invitations 12. Photographer and location(s) for wedding photos 13. Wedding cake 14. Flower arrangements, bouquets, centerpieces 15. Music selections for the wedding and reception

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16. Limousine, horse drawn carriage, or the like 17. Decorations (there will be subheadings under this section) 18. Menu for the reception 19. Programs for the wedding ceremony 20. Jewelry for the bride and wedding party 21. Create a bridal registry (for not only the wedding, but

the bridal showers prior to the wedding day)

22. Appointments for hair, makeup and fingernails for wedding party

and mothers of the bride and groom

23. Honeymoon plans Your wedding planner checklist will be much more detailed and include several minute details under each of these headings. However, along with all of the fun items to include on your checklist, there are a few others to remember. Contact The Newnan Times-Herald about printing your engagement and wedding photograph. Submit a change of address card to the post office so your mail will be delivered in a timely manner. If your state requires it, get your blood tests and then secure your marriage license.

A wedding planner checklist will ensure your day goes as planned, so make sure to look at it often and check off the completed tasks as you go. On your wedding day, relax and enjoy the day!

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201 7 BRIDAL PLAN NER

T R AV E L

7 Tips for a Great Hone ymoon

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.

2. Read online reviews. Online reviews can paint an accurate picture of a potential honeymoon destination. Look at vacationer-supplied 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.

3. Plan at least one exciting outing. 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.

4. 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.

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.

1. Start saving early. 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

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS

5. 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.

6. Splurge on something expensive. Whether it’s an ultra-fancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge.

7. Leave your itinerary open. After scores of wedding appointments and watching the clock, it’s nice to fly by the seat of your pants. BP

Voted World’s Best, Sandals thoughtfully includes every conceivable luxury and adventure – sun-kissed beaches, sports from scuba to golf,* gourmet dining, and the Caribbean’s most sumptuous suites, some even with butler service. And it’s all included, at the resorts made for love.

/GPSVACATIONSGA

NANCY WALDEN, ACC, CTA T R AV E L C O N S U LT A N T

770-596-6428

NANCY@GPSVACATIONS.COM *Amenities vary by resort and conditions may apply. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts.

WWW.GPSVACATIONS.COM

T R AV E L

When to Visit These Honeymoon Hotspots

A

honeymoon provides a welcome retreat for couples after months upon months of budgeting, planning and ironing out the details of their weddings. On their honeymoons, couples get the chance to escape the pressures of everyday life and simply enjoy being alone with each other in special locations.

Honeymoon vacations can be expensive, and many couples want to ensure they get the best value for their trips. A honey-

moon that is overshadowed by inclement weather can make this once-in-a-lifetime trip memorable for all the wrong reasons. While not every hiccup can be avoided, couples can plan their honeymoons for those times of year when specific locales experience their best weather.

• Jamaica: Couples tying the knot in the earlier part of the year may want to honeymoon in Jamaica. With average temperatures in the 80s year-round, Jamaica makes for a great honeymoon destination. January through April see less rain than other times of the year, and keep in mind June through the end of December is hurricane season.

• Australia: People opting to get married in the winter in the Northern Hemisphere might want to escape the cooler temperatures and shorter days with a honeymoon south of the equa-

tor. Australia and New Zealand are beautiful spots to visit and enjoy summer when those in the Northern Hemisphere are mired in winter.

• France: Paris and other French cities can be enchanting to visit any time of the year, but locals advise honeymooners visit in September when the climate is quite comfortable and tourism is minimal. Spring is another great time to visit France, especially for those people who want to spend plenty of time outdoors.

• Mexico: Areas of Mexico, such as popular Cancún and Cozumel, tend to stay warm all year long, but they can be particularly hot in the summer.

Spring brides and grooms may want to venture there before the summer season is in full swing.

Couples might want to avoid vacationing in certain areas in March, as students visiting for spring break may compromise

2 0 1 7 B R I D A L PL AN N ER

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the romantic atmosphere honeymooners are hoping for.

• Hawaii: Spring and summer can be ideal times to visit the islands of Hawaii, as the weather can be beautiful and travel tends to be less expensive during these times of year. Rains increase as autumn sets in, and Hawaii often sees the bulk of its vacationers during the winter, meaning higher costs and bigger crowds.

• Italy: April through June and September through October are some of the best times to visit Italy. Be aware that Venice tends to be misty and damp during the late fall and early spring. Italy, especially southern Italy and Sicily, can get quite hot during the peak summer months.

Weather and tourism should be considered as newlyweds choose where to go on their honeymoons. BP

PLAN NOW.

PLAY LATER IN HAWAI’I. UNIGLOBE Travel Partners-Atlanta 770-253-1641 | uniglobemcintosh.com info@uniglobemcintosh.com

Offer subject to change without notice; other restrictions may apply. Restrictions and government regulations apply to destination weddings. ©2015 MLT Vacations, LLC DV20261

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201 7 BRIDAL PLAN NER

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD • 16 JEFFERSON STREET • P. O. BOX 1052 • NEWNAN, GEORGIA 30264 • 770-253-1576 Your engagement announcement will appear in The Newnan Times-Herald as written here. Deadlines for submission are Monday at noon for Sunday’s edition or 3 business days prior to requested publication date. This form must be legibly completed in sentence form. The photograph should be of good quality or high-resolution if submitted electronically. The cost for publishing an engagement announcement is $50 up to 250 words, 20¢ for each additional word over 250, and includes one full color photo.

_____________________________________________________________________ of _______________________________ , Names of persons making announcement

announce the engagement of their daughter, ___________________________________________________________________ Bride’s Name

to ____________________________________________ , son of ___________________________________________________ Parents’ Names

Bridegroom’s Name

of _____________________________________________________ .

City, State

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of ______________________________________________________________________ of _______________________________________________________________ and __________________________________________ of City, State

__________________________________________________________________ .

City, State

Miss __________________________________________ is a graduate of ____________________________________________ Bride’s Last Name

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

List Schools, Honors, Degrees, Place of Employment

The future bridegroom’s grandparents are ____________________________________________________________________ of _________________________________________________________ and _________________________________________ of City, State

_______________________________________________________ .

City, State

Mr.________________________________________________ is a graduate of _______________________________________ Bridegroom’s Last Name

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

List Schools, Honors, Degrees, Place of Employment

The wedding will be an event of ___________________________________________ at _______________________________ .

Date

at the ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Wedding Location

_______________________________________________________ Name of person to contact regarding this information

__________________________________________________ Daytime Phone Number

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature and Address

Send to closeup@newnan.com

2/17

2 0 1 7 B R I D A L PL AN N ER

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD • 16 JEFFERSON STREET • P. O. BOX 1052 • NEWNAN, GEORGIA 30264 • 770-253-1576 Your wedding announcement will appear in The Newnan Times-Herald as written here. Deadlines for submission are Monday at noon for Sunday’s edition or 3 days prior to requested publication date. This form must be legibly completed in sentence form. The photograph should be of good quality or high-resolution if submitted electronically. The cost for publishing a wedding announcement is $75 up to 400 words, 20¢ for each additional word over 400, and includes one full color photo.

_____________________________________________, daughter of ______________________________________________________ , Bride’s Name

Bride’s Parents

of __________________________________________, became the bride of _______________________________________________ , City, State

Groom’s Name

son of ________________________________________________________ of _____________________________________________ .

Groom’s Parents

City, State

on _____/_____/_____ at _________________________________________ with _________________________________ officiating.

Church

Minister

___________________________________ rendered a program of nuptial music and ______________________ lighted the candles.

Vocalist and/or organist

Bridal Party

___________________________ of __________________________ was the bride’s Maid / Matron of Honor. ____________ City, State

Circle One

The other Bride’s Attendants were: ___________________________ of ___________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ____________________________ of __________________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ____________________________ of ________________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ___________________________ of _____________________________ , They wore dresses of _____________________________________________ and carried bouquets of ______________________________ , Color and Fabric

Kind of Flowers

______________________________ of _____________________________ served as Best Man. The other Groom’s Attendants were: ____________________________ of __________________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ____________________________ of __________________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ____________________________ of ________________________________ , _________________________ of _________________________ , ___________________________ of _____________________________ , The bride entered with ___________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Name and Relation to Bride

She chose a ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Dress Description

Her bouquet consisted of _________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Flowers

Following the ceremony, a reception was given by________________________________________________________________________ Name and Relation (ex: Bride’s parents)

at _______________________________________________________________________________________________ .

Following a wedding trip to ___________________________________________________________________________________________, Location

Mr. and Mrs. __________________________________________________ will reside in ___________________________________________ . _______________________________________________________ Name of person to contact regarding this information.

____________________________________________________ Daytime Phone Number

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature and Address

Information on prenuptial parties may be included if desired.

Send to closeup@newnan.com

2/17

19

20

201 7 BRIDAL PLAN NER

DANCE

Make the

First Dance Even More Memorable

D

onna Summer may have sung about making the most of life with her song “Last Dance” in the 1970s, but during a wedding reception most of the focus is on the first dance of the evening when the newlyweds take to the dance floor for the first time after tying the knot. Not only does the first dance give the couple an opportunity to shine on the dance floor, but it also can help set the tone for the reception to follow.

A couple’s first dance is significant.

Traditionally, the first dance was performed to a slow waltz, but now the first dance is not governed by any rules.

Many couples like to push boundaries or get creative with their first dances, and

this can make the wedding even more memorable. In fact, some couples enroll in dance classes or enlist the help of choreographers to ensure an epic opening dance number. Whether a couple wants to perform an intricate tango or simply wants to sway to the music on the first dance, here are some pointers to keep in mind.

Choose a wedding song that has meaning. It may be fun to do a dance routine to DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean,” but remember your first dance song will forever be linked to your life as a couple.

Select a song that has deep meaning to you.

Read over the lyrics to make sure it’s an appropriate wedding song.

Choose an uncomplicated routine. If

PHOTOGRAPHY

Find the Right Wedding Photographer T

he following tips can help guarantee beautiful photos to recall the best moments of the day.

Seek referrals. Referrals can offer insight into a photographer’s personality and his or her abilities to work with the wedding party and guests throughout the day.

Choose a photographer who is confident and firm. A good photographer will be able to direct photo subjects and get everyone to participate and in line.

Prepare a shoot list. Meet with the photographer before the wedding and provide a list of all the shots you absolutely need to get.

Discuss a backup plan.

Mishaps happen, even on

the most carefully planned wedding day. Discuss what the photographer does to safeguard your digital photo files. Are they backed-up to a cloud or a secured offsite server? What happens if he or she is ill on the day of the wedding?

Consider a second shooter.

While one photographer is doing close-up portraits, the other may be capturing candid moments from onlookers from another angle.

Know what each package includes. There should be no surprises when it’s time to pay the balance of the photographer’s fees, so go over each itemized detail to be sure the package in your contract is the one you really want. BP

dancing is not your strong suit, select an easy song that allows you to simply sway back and forth and move around minimally.

Dancing takes practice, but with that practice even the self-professed “worst dancer” can cut an impressive rug.

Work with a professional. If you desire something more intricate for the first dance and you have the budget to pay for some dance lessons, go for it. An instructor can take you through dance basics or help you choreograph a more polished piece.

First dances are memorable moments at wedding receptions. Guests can’t wait to hear the song couples choose, and some couples exceed guests’ expectations with their impressive moves. BP

RACHEL’S DANCE CONNECTION Rachel Ferguson, Director Instructor Beverly Ferguson, Instructor

Let us help you learn a beautiful wedding dance to your special song on this most important day!

Additional Services Offered: • Ballroom Dancing • Line Dancing • Clogging • Belly Dance Exercises • Zumba • Hip-Hop PRIVATE LESSONS AVAILABLE

WWW.DANCER236.WEBS.COM

770-487-8611 • rsfergus1@gmail.com

CONNECTION