Weddings
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Fine Wedding Invitations
By The Numbers
&
87
at . . .
Percentage of brides who wear white
5
2058 Utica Square 747-8780
Average number of bridesmaids
Wedding Registry Available
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Food Choices Almost Limitless Celebrations include food, and weddings are a feast to behold. With bridal luncheons, bridesmaids tea, rehearsal dinners and of course the reception, there are many menus to plan. Typically the bride does most of the planning when it comes to food, but at the rehearsal dinner it’s usually the groom and his family making the decisions. “Brides plan so much,” said Michael Bennett, private dining director for Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse. “The rehearsal dinner is the groom’s chance to give an event with a more masculine feel.” Fleming’s specializes in steaks and prime beef and often is asked to pair it with their signature side dish of potatoes au gratin. “Our atmosphere is simple and elegant — white tablecloths and candle light,” Bennett said. The Spudder also offers a more masculine feel with its oil memorabilia and fine steaks, according to Duane Croxdale, owner. Rehearsal dinner at his establishment can follow a set menu or guests can order from the regular menu. He advises to give guests tickets to use at the bar for the evening. “It helps them limit how much their guests are having, and it helps so they know what to budget for in the planning,” Croxdale said. Both establishments have space on-site for rehearsal dinners, but not for receptions. Food will be taken to a site couples choose. For those looking for something a bit different, consider a favorite ethnic dish. Cesar Castillo, general man-
ager for the Olive Garden at Utica Square, said a great choice of Italian items include lasagna, chicken Parmesan, fettuccine and spaghetti. His facility also has a private room for gatherings, but at this time they do not cater. However, for smaller weddings, he offers the option of picking up the food. “We can have everything ready for them,” he said. “They will just pick it up and go.” Mario Padilla, general manager of Monterrey’s, said fajitas are easy to serve and almost everyone enjoys them. Catering can be set up buffet style or plated. Another great option to feed hungry guests is barbecue, according to Jack Whitehead, general manager of Dickey’s BBQ Pit. Dickey’s offers full-service catering off-site. For about $1 per person extra, staff will be on hand to change out pans, have slicing stations for meats and take care of all cleanup. “We can customize any menu they want,” Whitehead said. “We have 11 different meats that are all available for weddings.” Some of the most popular choices are brisket and turkey. All these experts suggest planning at least six months in advance to make sure rooms are available and that staff will be ready for your event. Although all said they’ve had experience with helping couples at the last minute. “We’ve had people call 10 hours before their wedding,” said Whitehead. “The truth with barbecue is we’re always cooking so we can handle just about anything.”
Percentage of receptions that feature a signature drink
$5,847
Average cost of engagement ring
$28,385
Average budget for wedding ceremony and reception
Source: The Knot
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