Weddings Essentials - 2013

Bridal Planner

2013

A Publication of Weddings Magazine, Courier Communications

Everything a bride needs to know to plan the most perfect day of her life.

2013

get started 6 7 10 12 13 14

six things to do first your planning calendar basic expense tracker choosing your attendants MOH and bridesmaid duties ceremony music

your look 19 20 23 24 30 32 34 42 Inspired Focus

i do! i do! dress fashion veil styles color palettes tux trends top 10 flowers inspired invitations say cheese

inspired gatherings 46 50 54 56

your wedding your season inspirations plan the party! wedding cake glossary

resources 60 rehearsal hall directory 64 resource directory 66 marriage license locations

Biggs Photography

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 3

CUSTOM DESIGN THAT REFLECTS YOUR

style

Custom invitations Programs Thank you cards

Publisher David A. Braton Advertising Director Tara Seible

Save the date Embroidered gift ideas Napkins & much more!

Project Manager & Advertising Sales Sheila Kerns (319) 291-1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com

Weddings Editor Melody Parker (319) 291-1429 Excellent Friendly, melody.parker@wcfcourier.com

CALL OR STOP IN TODAY 2515 Falls Ave Waterloo, Iowa 319.235.6085

www.karensprintrite.com

Phone: www.ka

Weddings Advertising Sales Carrie Gleason carrie.gleason@wcfcourier.com Graphic Designers Emily Smesrud Amanda Hansen Contributing Writers/Sources Karen Bushanam Tina Hinz Holly Hudson Dawn Sagert The Knot Shutterstock Weddings Essentials is published yearly by Courier Communications and may be contacted at: 100 Fourth St., P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704. Copyright, Weddings, 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.

A publication of The Courier, Waterloo-Cedar Falls. Find CV Weddings Magazine on Facebook and cvweddings on Twitter.

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

Weddings Essentials is a publication of

4 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

get started

6 1

Biggs Photography

3

things to do first

Start your wedding planner.

Purchase a pretty accordion folder and stuff it full of ideas ripped from magazine pages. Include a binder or notebook to keep track of your to-do list and be sure to include the Weddings essential planner as a helpful guide to planning your big day.

2

Pick a date.

Avoid holiday weekends if cost is a factor (prices may be higher) but Sunday weddings often are less expensive. There are major holidays, as well as dates like Labor Day, Mother’s and Father’s Day, religious and cultural holidays, Halloween, Super Bowl Weekend, Final Four/March Madness and other dates to schedule around.

Look for fun dates like 11/12/13 or 3/1/13.

4

Book your reception and ceremony sites.

Make sure your chosen venue isn’t booked for your date (and have a backup plan, just in case).

Announce your engagement.

First, tell your parents, then call, email or Tweet other family members and friends and post it on your Facebook page. Fill out the engagement announcement form and announce it in the Courier’s Celebrations special section. Plan an engagement shower — as simple as a backyard cookout or cocktail party.

• • • •

5

Set your budget.

6

Start shopping for a wedding gown.

Bridal Bouquets Accessories Decorating Service Wedding Rentals

• Tuxedos • Invitations • Wedding Planner • Gift Registry

40% off select wedding accessories 220 E Bremer Ave., Waverly IA, 319 352 0243 Loveandlace.net

6 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

YOUR PLANNING CALENDAR He proposed, and you said “I will!”

Before you say your “I do’s,” there are plenty of wedding plans to make, vendors to interview and details to work out.

9 TO 16 MONTHS BEFORE  Start your wedding folder, if you haven’t already. Tear out pages of ideas and inspirations from Weddings and other magazines for planning your dream day.  Select a date and time for your wedding.  Decide on a style for your wedding. How elaborate or simple? With your fiance, sit down and make a list of your most-desired wedding elements, and rank them in importance. Make sure you both agree on major wedding details.  Determine a realistic budget, and decide who is footing the bill and for what. Be honest about how much you want to spend, and be sure everyone is on the same page.

Discuss the budget with everyone contributing financially and establish priorities.  Line up your list of wedding helpers, including fiance, parents and future in-laws. Find out how much (or little) the groom wants to do, and if you can delegate specifics to him, such as making honeymoon plans or contacting musicians or disc jockeys for the reception.  Interview wedding planners, if you decide to use one. A planner can offer insights and ideas and handle details and logistics with vendors, and make sure your day comes off without a hitch.  Select officiant(s) and visit with him or her to discuss wedding arrangements. If the wedding will take place in a church, some officiants require that couples attend pastoral or premarital counseling.  Choose the ceremony and reception locations. Do you want to have both in the same location or host the reception at another venue? Book them as soon as possible to get the time and date you desire. Use Weddings’ Rehearsal Hall Directory for listings in the Cedar Valley.

If your date and time is taken at your favorite location, have an alternative.  Set up a timeline of when tasks need to be started and

Weddings Essentials 2013

completed.  Register at two or three retailers for wedding gifts.  Put together your wedding party so friends won’t have to wonder about who’s in and who’s not.  Research photography, videography, wedding cake bakers, florists and other vendors. Set up appointments with no more than three in each category to keep the information manageable. Use Weddings’ planning pages to keep track of important details.

9 TO 12 MONTHS BEFORE  Choose and order the wedding rings.  Choose your colors. Your flowers, attire, linens and cake will reflect your choice.  Choose and order wedding gown, bridesmaids’ gowns and accessories.  Visit tuxedo shops and select attire for groom and groomsmen.  Select and book your florist, catering service, photographer/videographer and baker.  Book the entertainment for the reception, as well as arranging for soloists, string quartet, etc., for ceremony.  Book a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Select several hotels with different price points close to the reception site.  Begin compiling guest list. Ask parents to provide their lists of family, friends and others, but be prepared to whittle it down to fit within your budget.

6 TO 7 MONTHS BEFORE  Select and order invitations, thank-you notes and savethe-date cards. Or design them and have them printed.  Send “save-the-date” cards if you plan to do so.  Start planning the honeymoon. Select a travel agent to help make arrangements. Make sure passports are up-todate and schedule doctors’ appointments for any needed shots.  Meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony details and confirm you have all the official marriage documents — or know what is required. Discuss rehearsal details.  Arrange transportation. Book a limo, if desired. You’ll need transportation to the church, from the church to the reception site and hotel or airport after the event.

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 Start a preliminary “day-of ” timeline for an idea of what is supposed to happen when — such as starting the buffet or dinner, toasts, cutting the cake, the first dance, etc.)  Mothers-of-the-bride should begin shopping for their gowns. It is customary for the mother of the groom to wait until the MOB has selected her dress.

4 TO 6 MONTHS BEFORE  Book rehearsal dinner location. Traditionally, it is the groom’s parents who plan and pay for the rehearsal dinner.  Book day-after wedding brunch site, if one is planned.  Check on wedding invitations.  Arrange taste-testing sessions with wedding cake baker and caterer and make final decisions.  Complete the guest list and begin addressing wedding invitations. This can take some time; or hire a calligrapher.  Purchase shoes and undergarments to go with your wedding gown. Remember to bring them to any fittings.  Schedule try-out appointments with your hairdresser to determine a style that best suits your wedding style.

If desired, make an appointment with a makeup artist.

Snap digital photos so you’ll see how you look.  Choose the music. What song will you want for your first dance? Set up rehearsals with a dance instructor if you and your groom plan some special dance moves.

Keep a list of songs that you like — and ones you don’t want to hear at your reception.

2 TO 3 MONTHS BEFORE  Finish addressing invitations.  Finalize menu details with caterer. Make sure wine is ordered, if desired, and dinner service items (plates, glassware, silverware, linens, etc.) are lined up with the reception site or caterer.  Order favors, if desired. You can make your own fun favors or order edible treats, which are always a hit with guests.  Finalize the readings at your ceremony. Determine what you would like recited at your nuptials and who will be doing the honors.  Finalize music with soloists/musicians for ceremony.  Finalize the order of the ceremony and reception.

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 Print programs and menu cards, or consider creating your own on the computer and having copies made at a local print shop.  You should have had at least one fitting for your wedding gown at this point; schedule subsequent fittings.  Make sure groomsmen have been fitted for their tuxedos.  Complete honeymoon plans.  Research requirements for marriage license.  Schedule appointment with photographer for bridal portrait.  Make appointments with hair stylists/makeup consultants for portrait sittings, rehearsal dinner and wedding day.  Select gifts for your wedding attendants.

2 MONTHS BEFORE  Mail invitations. Etiquette requires invitations be mailed six to eight weeks before the wedding, setting the RSVP cutoff three weeks after the postmark.  Meet with photographer to discuss shots and locations.  Sit down with the band or disc jockey to discuss your playlist at the reception. Recognize you won’t be able to dictate every song played at your reception.  Connect with your vendors and make sure everything is on track, including dates, times, location, etc.  Enjoy showers and a bachelorette party. Usually the maid of honor is in charge of the bachelorette party.

1 MONTH BEFORE  Begin cataloguing gifts received. Start writing thankyou notes. Mail no later than one month after your wedding; it’s OK to send thank-yous for shower gifts after the individual showers.  Keep track of RSVPs as they are received. A helper may have to do some calling for guests who have forgotten to RSVP.  Get your marriage license.  Send invitations to the rehearsal dinner.  Have your final dress fitting  Assign seating at tables if the reception is a sit-down dinner. Decide how you want to designate seating.

Many couples come up with inventive ways to label place settings.  Wrap and prepare gifts for attendants to give at the

2013 Weddings Essentials

rehearsal dinner.  Write your vows and visit with your officiant.  Host the bridesmaids’ luncheon.  Purchase your guest book and decide where it will go, either at the wedding or reception.

2 WEEKS BEFORE  Reconfirm times with vendors.  Make arrangements to pick up wedding gown.  Finalize wedding transportation.  Arrange to have names changed on driver’s license, Social Security card, etc., if you are taking his last name.  Send a timeline to wedding attendants, including every member’s contact information and “point” people for vendors to call if there are problems.  Touch base with your photographer/videographer to discuss “special moments” you want photographed, and work on details for location photo shoot, if planned.  Book a spa day and manicure/pedicure for the day before your wedding. Don’t have a facial, though, because you could wake up on your wedding day with a red face or zit!

1 WEEK BEFORE  Finalize the number of guests with the caterer.  Make sure wedding rings are picked up and fitted.  Set aside checks in envelopes to pay vendors and tips to be handed out on the wedding day.  Break in your wedding shoes. Slip them on and dance.  Welcome baskets for hotel rooms of out-of-town guests (city map, snacks, etc.) , and deliver to hotel.  Check your timeline to make sure details such as decorating the venue, delivering favors, etc., are on track.  Pack for your honeymoon.

When quality & price matter.

WEDDING DAY  This is it! Relax and enjoy your very special day.

Catchlight Imaging

Weddings Essentials 2013

Cedar Falls, IA In Front of Kohl’s 319-277-0717 thediamondstore.com www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 9

BASIC EXPENSE TRACKER Lofty wedding plans can lead to big debt.

Figure out how to pay for your wedding before starting to make arrangements. How much money do you want to spend? What’s most important to you for the wedding? Is it the flowers?

The dress? The food at the reception? Budget more of your money to areas of the wedding that mean the most.

A wedding is meant to be a joyous celebration, not a financial burden. Traditionally, the bride’s family paid for most expenses. Times have changed. Expenses may be shared between families, even divvied up based on each family’s guest list, or the couple may pay for the whole enchilada themselves.

Once you’ve decided on how much to spend, keep track of your expenses: ATTIRE Wedding gown/alterations Headpiece & veil Bride’s accessories (jewelry, shoes) Hair & makeup Wedding rings (his & hers) Prewedding pampering Groom’s tux or suit Groom’s accessories

SUBTOTAL

FLOWERS Bridal bouquet Bridesmaids’ bouquets Grooms’ & groomsmen’s boutonnieres Flower girl flowers Additional boutonnieres & mother’s corsages Ceremony floral arrangements Reception arrangements/centerpieces/decorations

SUBTOTAL MISCELLANEOUS Invitations & stationery Photography Videography Additional prints/copies Bridal party gifts Transportation Lodging Honeymoon expenses (airfare/hotel)

SUBTOTAL 10 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

CEREMONY Ceremony location fee Officiant fee/donation Soloists/musicians Candelabra rental Candles Ceremony accessories

SUBTOTAL

RECEPTION Venue rental Caterer/food Beverages Bartender Favors Tableware/linens rental fee Wedding cake Musicians/disc jockey

SUBTOTAL

TOTAL

REMAINING FUNDS IN BUDGET

Black’s Sky Room

Riviera - Roose Community Center

307 Maple Street, Janesville, IA 50647 319-987-3512 or 319-231-7660

www.jvrrcc .com

jvrrcc@gmail.com

BUSINESS MEETINGS | RETREATS | REUNIONS | WEDDINGS

A Beautiful Full Featured event Central

Now taking reservations for weddings and special events!

8th floor of the Historic Black’s Building in Downtown Waterloo 501 Sycamore Street, Waterloo, IA 50703

319-235-1521

Choosing your attendants

B&S Photography

Attendants are your support group, your wedding-day front line.

Parties can range from a single maid or matron of honor and best man to more than a dozen attendants. When you’re drafting your team, consider these tips: 1 More isn’t always merrier. The larger the number, the greater the potential for complications. A general rule of thumb is one groomsman and one bridesmaid for every 50 guests, which means pick a number that fits the size of the wedding.

2 Pick those closest to you.

It might be worth including family to avoid conflict, but nothing is set in stone. You may want your siblings, closest friends, cousins, future sisters- and brothers-in-law.

3 Don’t make assumptions. Ask before your write off a friend because you think she or he can’t pay the freight for attire and the rest. Being an attendant is an honor, but a costly one. Let the person make the final call. Or if you can, offer to help foot the bill or find something else for the person to do (guest book or personal attendant, for example).

4 Opposite gender is OK, too, as “man of honor” and “best girl.”

5 Set expectations from the get-go.

6 No, you don’t have to return the favor. Just because you’ve been in someone else’s bridal party, doesn’t mean they have to be in yours.

7 You can have two maids or matrons of honor, or a maid and a matron, and two best men.

8 You can have an uneven number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

9 If children will be in the party as flower girls or ring bearers, they will need special consideration.

10 Think before you uninvite — and be prepared to deal with hurt feelings and torn relationships.

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2013 Weddings Essentials

Maid/matron of honor responsibilities

Best man responsibilities

 The bride’s assistant before and during the

 Helps groom with pre-wedding duties.  Organizes the bachelor party.  Witness by law.  Acts as chief of staff at the wedding.  Carries bride’s wedding ring until requested by

wedding.  Traditionally hosts the bridal shower and/or bachelorette party.  Witness by law.  Pays for her own attire.  Makes sure bridesmaids are dressed properly with accessories for the wedding.  Precedes the bride and her escort down the aisle.  Arranges the bride’s veil and train and holds the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony.  Passes the groom’s ring when requested by officiant.  Sits next to the groom at the bridal table during the reception.  Alerts the bride of the reception timetable at appropriate times.

officiant.

 Proposes the first toast to the bridal couple.  Reminds the groom of the reception timetable.  Makes sure the couple’s luggage is in the car for

their departure.

 Makes sure all rental items are returned.

Yes, it’s perfectly fine to choose a man to be your attendant, but call him the “man of honor.”

Dan Phillips Photography

Have your celebration at the A beautiful setting for 125 guests or less. Excellent for rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions, showers, anniversaries, special events, and business meetings.

Cedar Falls Woman’s Club Please call for an appointment at 319-266-1431 304 Clay Street, Cedar Falls, IA CFWC@CFU.NET

www.cedarfallswomansclub.org

Jump, Jive&Wail Exciting Dance Instruction

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Weddings Essentials 2013

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CEREMONY MUSIC PIANIST/ORGANIST Phone Fee

PRELUDE

SOLO(S)

SOLOIST(S) 1. Phone Fee 2. Phone Fee

PROCESSIONAL

INSTRUMENTALIST(S) 1. Phone Fee 2. Phone Fee

DURING CEREMONY

READERS Phone Scripture/poetry/literature readings

POSTLUDE

RECESSIONAL

Be Unique Bring in this ad for

20% off

your invitations!

Co�on m�t be presented when order � placed. NO Exceptio�.

Sarah Jo

Matthew Ryan to

Reception to begin at 6:00 p.m.

Veteran’s Memorial Building 205 Cemetery Street • Parkersburg, Iowa

Aplington

Parriott St

Caldwell St Church

57

AmericInn Viking Rd

9th St

Parkersburg

Reception

14/57 Comfort Inn

W Ridgeway Ave

20 Travel on Hwy 20 for 16 miles from Hwy 14 to Hotels

The Response Card The favor of a reply

Name(s)______________ ______________ is requested by July

215 W. Bremer Breme Br emerr eme

14, 2012 _________

____ Accepts with pleasure ____ Declines with regrets ____ Number attending

nda AmaPopp ens & Ryan Oelmann

Invitation Formal to Follow

Cedar

www.printery.net .print .pr intery int ery.ne ery .nett .ne

58

14

20

September 15,

Blank p�er, car�tock and envelopes available.e.

Cedar Falls

Cemetery St Nordic Dr

Invitations Programs Thank Yous

Danny and Kimberly Abbas request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter

son of Roger and Debra Moore on Saturday, the fourth of August two thousand and twelve at half past four in the afternoon First Reformed Church 905 Caldwell Street • Aplington, Iowa Reception and dance to follow

2012

Falls, Iowa

Thhank You (319) (319 (3 19)) 35 19 352-5822 3522-

julie@ jul ie@ pr printery.net print int

Waverly, Waverl Wav erly, erl y, Iowa

CEREMONY SITE LOCATION 1

LOCATION 2

LOCATION 1

LOCATION 2

Address Contact Phone E-mail Web address Denomination Officiant Personal vows OK Seating for guests Available dates & times Cost Earliest arrival time on wedding date Floral arrangements/set-up Things not allowed (rice, decor, etc.)

Rehearsal time Photographer set-up time AVAILABLE AMENITIES Altar Arch Chairs Candelabra Candles Aisle stanchions Kneeling bench Dressing room Organist Soloist Audio/video equipment Coatroom Handicap accessibility Parking

215 Main Street • Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613 Phone: 319-277-5655 www.anelegantaffairbridal.com

Planning

your

Professional Catering Staff • Two Unique Banquet Areas Seating up to 300

Table Centerpieces, Service, and Linens • Online wedding Planner Website Gift Opening and Rehearsal Dinner • Room Set Up and Clean Up Guest Room Accommodations • Complimentary Whirlpool Suite

We’ll do the work . . . while you enjoy

UNIVERSITY PLAZA

5826 University Avenue SW, Cedar Falls, Iowa • 319.277.2230 www.clarionhotel.com/hotel-cedar_falls-iowa-IA188 www.facebook.com/clarioncedarfallsia

your look

Infinite Image Design

Biggs Photography

Catchlight Imaging

Dan Phillips Photography

Inspired Focus

B&S Creative

Dan Phillips Photography

Studio D Photography

Catchlight Imaging

Infinite Image Design

I DO! I DO! A

Shopping for an engagement ring? diamond’s value is dictated by the rarity of four characteristics: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight, also known as the 4 C’s. These four characteristics can alter three factors in a diamond — its beauty, rarity or size.

You should prioritize your diamond search by beauty, rarity and size. This will make your diamond search more simple and fun. Decide upon what’s important and mix and match your 4 C’s to end up with your perfect diamond.

Note: Though a diamond’s value may increase or decrease because of rarity, most rarity factors do not affect beauty as seen by the naked eye.

The rarity factor of Diamond Cut is the most important characteristic influencing the beauty of a diamond. The better the cut, the more rare and beautiful your diamond will be.

The rarity factor of Diamond Color definitely affects price, but does nothing to alter beauty as related to sparkle or brilliance. However, while

searching you may find that certain colors catch your eye more than others.

The rarity factor of Diamond Clarity does not for the most part affect the beauty of the diamond except in the cases where the inclusions are eye visible.

The size of your diamond is characterized by two features. The more obvious of the two is its Carat Weight. This is how much your diamond weighs on a scale. The less obvious feature is the influence that beauty has on the appearance of a diamonds size. The more beautiful a diamond, the larger it will appear.

When selecting a style, consider the bride’s personality and her desires. Shapes are round, princess, emerald, asscher (more square than emeraldshaped), marquise, oval, radiant, pear, heart and cushion.

Source: Diamond Information Center

Fashion trends

SHORT

AMSALE

COLOR

ALFRED ANGELO

PEPLUM

AMSALE

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

TRANSFORMERS

ALFRED ANGELO

PORTRAIT BACK

AMSALE

VERA WANG

REEM ACRA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

LACE

REEM ACRA

20 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

CHRISTOS

BLUSH

2013 Weddings Essentials

traditional BALLGOWN

LAZARO

Fashion TRUMPET

ST. PUCCHI

A-LINE

JENNY PACKHAM

Weddings Essentials 2013

ST. PUCCI

SHEATH

ALFRED ANGELO

MERMAID

REEM ACRA

CHRISTOS

ALRED ANGELO

JENNY PACKHAM

STRAPLESS

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

TROUSSEAU

CAROLINA HERRERA

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 21

Find a dress that flatters your figure HOURGLASS You’re curved in all the right places, show it off!

Flattering: A-line dress with dropped waist; fitand-flair gown such as a mermaid or trumpet style; sweetheart neckline; decorative sash at the waistline; exaggerated dropped waistline below hips Not so much: Ball gown or Empire waist; plunging neckline

TALL AND SLENDER Slim and trim Flattering: Ball gown, sheath; silky fabrics; high necklines like halter, jewel or bateau styles; defined waistline for the illusion of curves; A-line or ball gown with volume.

Not so much: Stay away from portrait, off-theshoulder or halter necklines if your collarbone is bony.

SHORT WAIST There’s a short distance from your ribs to your hips.

Flattering: Princess (fitted bodice and opening to a full skirt), perhaps with portrait or halter neckline; slightly dropped-waist gown.

Not so much: Sheath style

PETITE Small-framed figure Flattering: Sheath, A-Line, trumpet; make sure hemline is not too long or too short; V-neckline; slim styles with sheer lace or tulle overlay; Vshaped bodice embellishments.

Not so much: Most silhouettes will flatter you, but you might be swamped in a big ball gown. Avoid full tiers, too much embellishment or oversized bows and flowers.

THICK WAIST Your waist is undefined — the line from your shoulders to your hips is straight.

Flattering: Empire-waist dress for long, lean look.

Not so much: Princess-line, basque waist FULL FIGURE More voluptuous with full breasts, tummy, round hips and rear.

Flattering: Ball gown or A-line silhouette.

Not so much: Sheath, spaghetti straps PEAR SHAPE Small on top, heavy on the bottom Flattering: Basque waist; strapless ball gown; baby-doll gowns with Empire dress; detailed bodices and neckline to draw eye upward; tiers to hide hips.

Not so much: Sheath, trumpet- or mermaidstyle gown; dropped waist; slinky fabrics.

APPLE Full tummy Flattering: Tight ruching or beading around waist; conservative necklines such as V; wide straps; gathered waistline; above-the-knee hemline for great legs Not so much: Off-the-shoulder necklines; high necklines

WEDDINGS NOTE Don’t be afraid to try on every dress you find appealing. You may find a dress that breaks all the figure rules that looks great on you!

Weddings Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Up to 400 guests www.uni.edu/catering | 319•273•2333 Dawnell Johnson | Angie Sadler University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls 22 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

Veil Styles 1

Cascade: Very full, layered look with several differing lengths of veiling.

2

Ballet-length: End at about ankle length and have been to referred to as waltz veil.

3

Cathedral-length: The longest of veils, generally at least 3 feet in length. Trails behind bride several feet and attaches to headpiece or waist.

4

Fly-away: Several layers of veiling all ending at shoulders.

5

Blusher: Probably one layer of veiling only covering face.

6

Mantilla: Circle of lace or nylon draped loosely over bride’s head like a scarf.

1

2

3

4

5

6

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 23

monaco & dusty blue

Indigo Flask

A personalized leather flask in deep indigo blue. $24.95, theknot.com

Navy-blue

sugar flowers cascaded down the tiers.

Pearl & blue

crystal necklace. Other colors available. theknot.com

True blue

pansies are a sweet boutonniere option.

Flowy and slimming This

V-neckline has a bodice featuring miniature ruching. The whole look is wrapped up by a sleek belt with a dramatic floral accent. Allure, style 1271.

Something blue

peep-toe pumps by Enzo Angiolini sparkle with hundreds of rhinestone accents on luxe suede. $160.

Cameo-themed

cupcakes make a classic statement at the dessert table.

Opaque aqua

pear-shaped, glass jewel earrings have vintage appeal set in patina brass, Beegee Bags, $28.

Jars "Plume" Dinnerware in Ocean Blue.

Shake things up with these love bird salt & pepper shakers.

green

Scrolled piping

in lime green adds a pop of color to an elegant ivory cake.

Classic combos never go out of style Deciding on a wedding color scheme can be both exciting and nervewracking. Should you go with your favorite colors or the latest trend colors?

What will those colors look like on your bridesmaids? Will your photos and videos look dated in five years if you choose that color combo?

Classic colors make timeless palettes. Here are a few for inspiration:

Ummm ... delicious ...

Senorita Margarita shampoo gel and bubble bath from Philosophy.

Mocha Pairings: Blush, sky blue, chartreuse, ivory Tip: Choose long, wooden farm tables to play up the warm browns.

Jungle green

inviations set the theme. theknot.com

Jet black Pairings: Ivory, champagne, pink, charcoal, plum Tip: This color has a romantic elegance that makes it ideal for a black-tie affair. Use lush floral arrangements to keep it from looking stark.

Platinum Pairings: Cream, blush, ice blue, black, fuchsia Tip: Keep this steely color from looking too stark by mixing in romantic, lush flowers like roses and hydrangeas.

Peach Pairings: Tan, cream, seafoam, black, gold, charcoal Tip: To keep the look romantic (not juvenile), don’t douse your details in this shade. Stick to low-key touches (like the cake table linens).

Picture-perfect pump with peeptoe design exudes fashion-forward style, “Avril” from RSVP.

Ice blue Pairings: Charcoal, black, chartreuse, navy, silver, kelly green Tip: You’d be hard-pressed to find a flower in this shade, so instead, use it to accent your floral arrangements (blue jars as vases or a bouquet wrap).

Layered and flattering

for bridesmaids, Alfred Angelo, style 7044.

Green Ikat

dinnerware from C Wonder.

Also comes in Chocolate Brown, Coral, and Navy.

White Pairings: Blush, grassy green, silver, black, brown, gold Tip: You can never have too much white, so go mostly monochromatic and choose just a few smaller details to pull in your accent color.

Source: The Wedding Channel

Weddings Essentials 2013

Courtesy Photos

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 25

yellow Art Deco glass

calla lily wine stopper is attached to a solid chrome metal bottle stopper base, handcrafted, no two exactly alike, weddingfavorsunlimited.com.

Guests will enjoy grazing on

candy favors packaged in chic square boxes with matte finish, theknot.com

At the heart of “Daisy” by Marc

Jacobs is the completely feminine floral fragrance with a vintage edge of violet.

Sparkling and fresh as a daisy.

Guests will be

buzzing about honeyscented beehive candles as faors.

They come with a bronzed bee charm in a box that says “Meant to Be.”

Plant seeds

of love with these daisy seed packets attached to invitations.

Stunningly formal, these

satin peep-toe pumps have seams at the vamp for texture, Bouquets,” $69.

Pink is the perfect

complement to soft yellow on this sweet and charming cake.

The color is daffodil, Personalize

Hershey’s Kisses for a little chocolate indulgence for guests, americanbridal.com.

and the dress is style 7206 from Alfred Angelo.

Beaded details

make the buttery yellow “Emma” earthenware dinnerware from Pottery Barn look like an antique set.

pink This delicate

and fancy teardrop necklace features light rose-colored stones hand set and linked to a 16-inch adjustable rustic silver chain. $38, 1928bridal.com

KitchenAid’s

Artisan series has a 325-watt motor, 5-quart stainless steel bowl and comes in pink, $349, in support of the Cook for the Cure breast cancer program.

Kleinfeld earrings Drop earrings feature cushion-cut pink cubic zirconias and pave border, theknot.com

A cut above

Utterly feminine and pretty, wedding gown cookies are a fun touch at each place setting at your reception.

Poppy Flower from Coach mixes

bright fruits with soft florals. Citrus, lychee and cassis blend with water lily and jasmine petals to create an airy, lighthearted fragrance, $65, coach.com.

Red and pink frosting roses are

layered on this over-the-top tiered beauty.

Each layer has a different flavor, too.

Peekaboo! Ruffled

pleats and a peekaboo toe give ravishing beauty to the Nina Evelixa Pumps, $59.99, from Dillards.

Eden Bridal 2013 Elegant,

short, strapless bridesmaid dress with fabric belt and flower detail.

Courtesy Photos

• Spacious 20,000 Square ft. Room • Accommodates up to 650 people • Portable bar • Raised Portable Stage • Hard Surface Dance Area

Visit us at thecentrehall.com

(319) 352-1386

1211 4th Street SW • Waverly, IA questions@TheCentreHall.com Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 27

chocolate & vanilla

Lisa Hoffman

Beaded braclets have a round charm encasing spherical wood beads that slowly release perfume as they are exposed to air. Each piece of jewelry comes with refills, from LisaHoffmanBeauty.com.

Totable gifts Give your bridesmaids a reversible tote.

Choose brown with turquoise floral print or green with pink floral print, $40 each, theknot. com.

Leaves of love

Garden-themed or outdoor weddings need special favors, like this Tree Branch Place Card Frame favor. Comes with place cards, bulk pricing, theknot.com.

Be a radiant bride.

REN’s Radiance Range can reveal a renewed and glowing complexion, www.renskincare.com

Hearts on a string

Let guests write their messages of love and tie them to branches arranged in a vase.

Angelina Faccenda

bridesmaid dress in silk taffeta by Mori Lee (20202) in warm Truffle.

Take your style to new heights with the Odell Perfect place setting

This elegant Sophie Conran for Portmeirion dinnerware works for everyday and special occasions. In Biscuit, $71 for four-piece setting, Younkers.

Wedding Shoe from Badgley Mischka. Sophisticated. Elegant. It features a matte satin sash finished with a gorgeous crystal ornament.

Courtesy Photos

SIMPLY STUNNING, SIMPLY GRACEFUL,

We Have All Your Wedding Day Needs 3205 Hudson Road | Cedar Falls, IA 50613 | store: [319] 277-1117 32 www.simply-ido.com | simply@simply-ido.com

28 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

white & black black & white Can a wedding cake be sexy? This one is, with fondant, silver dragees, lace pattern on the center layer and jet beads, pendants and bow for decoration.

Travel mugs can make elegant gifts, especially personalized ones in black-and-white damask, each $22.95. theknot.com.

Inspired by Ireland’s Lismore castle, Waterford Lismore crystal candlesticks are a classic with diamond and wedge cuts. Candlesticks are sold in pairs, $199, Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Ebony-flecked gloves bring a graphic element to big-day silhouettes, both classic and unconventional, $40, BHLDN.

For him, black-rimmed and monogrammed cuff links will dress up any shirt. Perfect for groomsmen’s gifts, too.

Black-and-white polka dots add a touch of whimsy.

Something Bleu’s Polka-Dot Mary Janes are handmade in Italy; 3-inch satin-wrapped heel, canvas upper, leather sole, made for BHLDN, $280.

Belted detail Tara Keely Wedding, style 2151. Ivory silk organza A-line bridal gown, lace bodice with spaghetti straps, circular silk organza skirt, chapel train. Black organza and horse hair origami belt.

Anna & Ava finished this bamboo-inspired design with rhinestone stripes. Black enamel, spring-hinge closure; other colors available, $20, Dillards.

A perfect marriage of sophistication and romance, the black heart-shaped window favor boxes can be filled with white Jordan almonds or chocolate monogrammed M&Ms for a sweet favor. Each box, 2 by 2 by 2, $16.95/pack of 25, theknot.com.

Cake pops rock — especially decorated as the bride and groom.

tux trends What to look for :  Tuxedos worn with cravat (long) ties in patterns like paisleys, chevrons and stripes, instead of bow-ties. You can coordinate patterns with bridesmaids’ dresses.

Infinite Image Design

 Three-button jackets for a modern look.  Non-pleated shirts.  Guys in navy blazers and khakis but other clothing tied into the color scheme with pocket squares, tie, socks, etc., for casual weddings.  Family matters, and lots of grooms are involving their grandfathers into the mix by suiting them up in tuxedos. Shirts and ties may be in a slightly different shade than what’s being worn by the bridal party.

Studio D Photography

 Instead of flasks and initialed golf balls, grooms are gifting groomsmen with initialed cuff links.You can find ones that suit your groomsmen’s personalities and hobbies, too, such as a baseball and mitt for a sports fan.  Different boutonnieres for each groomsman, and not just flowers but herbs, leaves, etc. theknot.com TUX NOTE Pick out tuxes at the same time as bridesmaid dresses.

Make sure to order them 4-6 months in advance!

Catchlight Imaging

Preserve

your wedding gown for G E N E R AT I O N S

Keep your gown as fresh and beautiful as the day you said, “I DO.”

Waterloo & Cedar Falls 319.233.3571 / 800.982.1963 www.varsitycleaners.com 30 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

COMPONENTS OF MEN’S FORMAL WEDDINGWEAR Tuxedo (the tux): The most classic tux jacket, styles include single-breasted or double-breasted.

and V-shaped, pointing up and out just below the collar line.

Full dress (tails or tailcoat): This jacket is cropped in front, with two tails in the back and two- to sixbutton front. Usually reserved for formal evening weddings.

Shirt collars: The wing collar is the most formal choice (stand-up collar with downward points).

The Crosswyck style crosses in front and is fastened with a button.The madarin collar stands up and requires no tie. A Spread collar resembles a standard button-front skirt but with a wide division between the points in front.

Mandarin: A jacket with a stand-up collar with no lapel, worn with mandarin-collared shirt. Eliminates the need for a tie.

Cutaway (morning coat): For formal daytime weddings, this jacket is short in the front, long in the back, and tapering from the front waist button to a wide back tail. Cutaway jackets are either black or gray and are worn with matching striped trousers.

Stroller coat: A semi-formal suit jacket cut like a tuxedo. Usually charcoal gray or black and typically worn at weddings that take place before 4 p.m Lapels are peaked, notched or shawl. A notched collar has a triangular indention where the lapel joins the collar.The shawl has a smoothed, rounded lapel with no notch; the peaked label is broad

Sleeve options: Standard dress-shirt cuffs held with cuff links; French cuffs, which are folded over and closed with cuff links; and cuffs that close with a button.

Tie options: Bow ties are classic; a classic silk tie can be dressy enough for a tux. Ascots are wide, formal and usually patterned, folded over and fastened with a tie tack or stickpin (usually ultraformal and worn with cutaway coats and striped gray trousers). The Euro tie is a cross between the ascot and regular necktie.

Accessories include vests (waistcoats), cummerbunds worn around the waist when you’re not wearing a vest; formal shoes and socks.

Milroy’s Tuxedos...

When you Demand – • Today’s Modern Styling • More than 800 Color Choices • Everything on Display to See That’s Milroy’s Tuxedos...

When you want Him to look His best!

4th & Washington, Cedar Falls Crossroads Center, Waterloo Plaza 20 Center, Dubuque

Top 10 Flowers C

hoosing your wedding flowers can be challenging. Let your florist guide you through selections based on what you want, availability and budget.

1

Rose Still the most romantic symbol of love and beauty. It’s available in solids and bi-colors and specialities, and includes hybrid teas and spray roses.

2

Calla lily Elegant and sophisticated, the calla lily has a distinctive trumpet-shaped blossom.

Dark shades of purple are striking, but there are ivory, mauve-pink, yellow and orange.

3

Hydrangeas These flowers from the classic garden shrub can be sweetly oldfashioned or surprisingly contemporary. It holds its own or can fill out bouquets and arrangements.

4

Stephanotis Star-shaped waxy flowers are dainty additions to a bridal bouquet. The Victorians gave the flower a meaning, “marital happiness,” so no wonder it’s a traditional choice.

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5

Gerbera daisy This big, happy flower comes in a rainbow of colors for a cheerful and contemporary look.

6

Peony A bouquet of these flowers can be lush and fragrant. It’s an expensive choice because it doesn’t last long after being cut and is seasonally available, but can be imported out of season.

7

Lily of the Valley Sweetly perfumed, this tiny bell-shaped flower comes in white and is sometimes available in soft pink.

8

Ranunculus An alternative to roses or peonies, ranunculus is mildly scented and frilly.

9

Tulip Available in a white range of styles and colors, it is an elegant flower massed on its own or tucked into a bouquet.

10 Succulents Offbeat and trendy, succulents look fantastic paired with orchids or tucked into bouquets for added interest.

2013 Weddings Essentials

Bouquet styles Beidermeier: A nosegay made up of concentric circles of different flowers for a somewhat striped effect.

Cascade: A waterfall-like “spill” of blooms and greenery that’s anchored in a handheld base.

Classic hand-tied bouquet: A dense bunch of blooms either anchored in a bouquet holder, wired, or hand-tied.

Composite: A handmade creation in which different petals or buds are wired together on a single stem, creating the illusion of one giant flower.

Nosegay: A small, round cluster of flowers, all cut to a uniform length. Usually made with one dominant flower or color, nosegays are wrapped tightly with ribbon or lace for a delicate effect.

Pomander: A bloom-covered ball suspended from a ribbon, perfect for child attendants.

89

$

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Weddings Essentials 2013

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www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 33

T

he timeless tradition of white and ecru wedding invitations is a look that has served brides since Victorian times.

But it doesn’t suit every bride’s taste or satisfy the desire for an attention-getting invitation or an outof-the ordinary personal statement.

What to think about: Color: From the most delicate pastels to jewel tones and bright, bold graphics.

Details: Monogramming, embossing and engraving invitations, accessorizing with add-ons like charms, ribbons, bows, even bits of tulle and lace, and photographs, prose or poetic verses.

Inspired invitations

 Beyond the actual invitation, there are

save-the-date cards, thank-you notes and personal stationery needs, as well.

 One large invitation order will save more money than two smaller ones.

 Handwritten addresses and no email invitations.

What’s out there: Check out stationery stores, card shops and printers for preprinted designs that can be easily adapted. If you’re on a tight budget, create your own invites on your computer and have a print shop make copies.

 Stuff the reply card, reception card, if desired,

Things to remember:

 Bulky envelopes may cost more to mail. When

 When ordering invitations, make sure to order a few extras. You’ll want them as keepsakes in your wedding album. They’re also handy in case you make a mistake in addressing an envelope or overlooked someone on the guest list.

34 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

and possibly a map into the envelope.

Traditional invitations usually include an inner envelope that holds and protects the actual invitation.

you go to the post office to purchase stamps, take a full invitation and have it weighed before affixing postage.

 Include a stamped envelope for the reply card or, if it’s a postcard, make sure it is selfaddressed with postage attached. Even if it’s

2013 Weddings Essentials

just a few cents, it’s tacky to make your guests pay to return the card.

 Including registry information in the invitation is an etiquette faux pas. Use that information on the save-the-date card and at your website.

The final word Piecework — An invitation will include the outer envelope, unsealed inner envelope, the invitation, a reception card if the reception is at a different location than the ceremony, a reply card with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

It’s OK to include maps and accommodations information.

When to order — Six to seven months before the wedding date. Ask if you can receive the outer envelopes sooner so you can begin addressing. If a calligrapher has been hired to address the invitations, it may take an additional two to three weeks.

Proofread — Triple-check the invitation for spelling errors. Make sure the date, time and location are correct.

In the mail — Send out invitations two months

before the date. Send save-the-date cards as soon as possible so guests can arrange their schedules.

RSVP — The reply card asks that guests respond to the invitation. Make sure there is a “return by” card.

Reception cards — If the reception will take place at a different location, include a card that informs guests.

Wedding programs — As much memento as the ceremony’s agenda, the wedding program provides such information as the names of the officiant, bridal party and their relationship to the bride or groom, the soloists or musicians, the order of events, reading and song titles. It is also a chance for the couple to thank people, explain the ceremony, honor deceased loved ones, etc.

Thank-you cards — After the invitation, this is the single most important item in the wedding arsenal. These notecards should contain handwritten messages from the couple, thanking them for attending your wedding and/or for their gifts. Even a postcard with your wedding photo and a handwritten missive acknowledges their presence.

BRIDE’S ATTIRE LOCATIONS TO TRY ON WEDDING GOWNS 1

2

3

Location Phone number Appointment date THE GOWN

Gown style/name/designer Store name Address Website

Cost Deposit Dress Size Color Description

Phone Consultant Refund Policy

Fitting Date Dress pick-up date Veil/headpiece Cost THE ACCCESSORIES

Shoes Size Color Store Purse Jewelry checklist

Engagement ring

Earrings

Necklace

Bracelet

Hair accessories

Style/manufacturer Cost Cost

Catchlight Imaging

36 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

GROOM & GUYS’ ATTIRE GROOM

Store name Address Website

Tux size Color Fitting Date Pick-up date Deposit Balance due

Phone Consultant Vest

1

2

3

4

5

6

Groomsman Phone number Email address Tux Size/Color/Vest Deposit/Balance due

Groomsman Phone number Email address Tux Size/Color/Vest Deposit/Balance due

Dads/Ushers Phone number Email address Tux Size/Color/Vest Deposit/Balance due Infinite Image Design

Weddings Essentials 2013

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ATTENDANTS’ ATTIRE 1

2

3

4

5

6

Attendant’s name Phone number Email address Budget Size/measurements Attendant’s name Phone number Email address Budget Size/measurements PURCHASED GOWNS

Bridal shop Address Phone number Salesperson Designer/style no.

Color Cost per gown Date ordered Deposit First fitting

Amount due Final fitting

HANDMADE GOWN

Fabric shop Seamstress Phone Designer/pattern no.

Color Yardage Material cost First fitting

Hours

Seamstress cost Final fitting

ACCESSORIES

(headpieces, gloves, shoes, jewelry, bouquet)

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2013 Weddings Essentials

HAIRSTYLE CHECKLIST BRIDE’S HAIRSTYLE

Hair salon name Stylist Address Salon phone number Stylist cell phone SERVICES

Hair style Facial First appointment time and date Wedding day appointment time and date Location Cost Comments

ATTENDANT’S HAIRSTYLES

Manicure/pedicure

1

2

3

4

5

6

Attendant’s name Hairstyle Hair jewelry/headpiece Nails Appointment time/date Location Attendant’s name Hairstyle Hair jewelry/headpiece Nails Appointment time/date Location Comments

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 39

FLOWER WORKSHEET BRIDE Bouquet Toss Bouquet

How Many

Description (flower/style)

Location/delivery

BRIDAL PARTY Maid/matron of honor Bridesmaids Flower girl(s) Ring bearer(s) FAMILY Mother of bride Mother of groom Father of bride Father of groom Grandparents OTHERS Guest book/attendant Officiant Soloists Musicians Wedding planner Personal attendant CEREMONY Alter/arch/canopy Candelabrum Pews/aisles Other RECEPTION Bride’s table Table arrangements Cake/cake table Gift table Other TOTAL COSTS Deposit Due date Balance due Due date Who delivers flowers Time & Date Notes 40 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

Phone

2013 Weddings Essentials

INVITATION WORDING Wording the wedding invitation can be a sore subject. It’s OK to bend the rules for wording, but etiquette exists for a reason. Check out these different variations to find out what works best for your situation.

Tradition-bound: Everything is spelled out, including the time. Commas are used sparingly:

__________________ [proper names of those hosting] request the honor of your presence [request line] at the marriage of their _________ [list relationship of the bride to the host] __________________ [bride’s first and middle names] to __________________ [groom’s full name] _________, the __ of ___ _____ [day of the week, day and month of wedding] at ____ o’clock [time of wedding] in the _________ [time of day] ___________________ [name of the location of wedding] _________, ____________ [city and state where wedding will take place] Reception to follow Give Proper Recognition

Any parent or important loved one not mentioned on the invitation (either because they were not officially hosting or there was not enough space to include them) should be recognized elsewhere. If the bride’s parents are hosting, leave off the bride’s last name; if the groom’s parents are involved, use the bride’s last name.

Other standard choices: If one set of parents is hosting your wedding, list their names at the top.

“Mr. and Mrs. ____________ request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter _____ ________________ to _____________________ If both sets of parents are jointly hosting, you should list both on separate lines, with the bride’s parents first.

Mr. and Mrs. ________ & Mr. and Mrs. _________ request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their children _____________ to _____________ at time, date, and place When one couple is hosting, but you’d like to honor nonhosting parents by including them on the invitation, note their relationship to the bride or groom under that person’s name.

Mr. and Mrs. ______________ request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter __________________ to __________________ son of Mr. and Mrs. _______ at time, date, and place If the couple is planning to host the wedding, the invitation begins with the request line.

The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of Miss _____________ daughter of Mr. and Mrs. _____________ and Mr. ______________________________ son of Mr. and Mrs. ________________ at time, date, and place If the couple and both sets of parents are paying, the invitation should begin with the marrying couple’s names (bride’s name always comes first) and follow with “together with their parents” before the request line.

Miss _____________ and Mr. _______________ together with their parents Mr. and Mrs. ___________ and Mr. and Mrs.__________ request the honor of your presence at their marriage at time, date, and place

Weddings Essentials 2013

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Say Cheese!

This will be the most photographed day of your lives. Make sure how you look and feel comes across in your wedding photos.

1

Look at old photos of yourself and what you liked about them — were you happy, casual and focused on something other than the camera?

Try to mimic that look on your wedding day.

2

Focus on each other, not the camera. Let the photographer tell you where to look and how to avoid squinting at the the lens.

3

Book the same photographer who took your engagement photos for a sense of familiarity.

Selecting a photographer 1. First phone call: Get a feel for the photographer’s personality over the phone, check on availability for date and time.

2. Set up interviews with at least two photographers at their studio, where you can look at their portfolio. It’s helpful to bring photos in the style you like. Discuss types of photos and special effects you’d like.

3. Ask about the photographer’s policies, packages and prices. Ask about cancellation policy.

If the photographer has assistants, who will be at your wedding and actually shooting? What will the photographer wear? Will the photographer release the rights to your photos?

4. Discuss the important “don’t-miss-the-moment” shots.

5. Schedule photo sessions for bridal portait and other special photo shoots.

Dan Phillips Photography

2013 Weddings Essentials

PHOTOGRAPHER CHECKLIST Name Address Contact Phone Web address Email address Interview date/time Special effects offered Wedding package Sessions Bride’s album Total number photographs and sizes Parents’ albums Complementary Cost of package Individual portraits Engagement Bridal Extra photo costs Sizes Wallets Proofs Negatives Publication rights Cancellation policy Staff attire

Catchlight Imaging

Infinite Image Design

B&S Creative

Biggs Photography

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Weddings Essentials 2013

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2013 Weddings Essentials

inspired

gatherings

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 45

your wedding

your season Spring

1. Choose a romantic palette of barelythere hues — pink, lavender, robin’s egg blue, green, yellow. Pair with a lbranches, milk glass, copper, wood, birds.

2. Fairy-tale wedding gowns — big, frothy layers of tulle, light draping, details like fabric flowers and vines — are all the rage.

3. Top long tables with pretty fabric runners and vases of spring flowers for a simple and refined look. Add candlelight with votives, candelabras and hurricane or oil lamps.

4. Mix paper and printing techniques on invitations and add a token to drive home your theme — a piece of twine with a sprig of dried lavender for an outdoor wedding, etc.

5. Tasting plates of mini foods instead of typical fare at receptions or showcase a specific ingredient like olive oil or garden herbs.

Summer

1. Choose just one or two sophisticated brights for a unified look. Or use just one dynamic color for your reception — bold tangerine table linens or all-pink centerpieces. Single-color floral arrangements look lush.

2. Get personal. Spent your summers in a cabin in the woods? Go for a mountain theme. Or bring in a theme from your honeymoon destination.

3. Reverse color schemes on invitations — instead of fuschia lettering on cream, try cream print on fuschia paper or add a bright pink reply card with a cream-colored font to go with your cream-colored invite.

4. Think summer music styles — steel drums, acoustic guitarist — for cocktail hour and big band or classic swing or sultry salsa for the reception dance.

5. Wine smoothies are cold, frosty and pack less of an alcoholic punch than margaritas. A wine smoothie consists of a fruity wine blended with ice and fruits of your choice. Garnished with berries or fruit slices.

46 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

Fall

1. Rich browns, golds, purples, orange and typical autumnal colors are always popular. Pair with vibrant jewel tones for fresh, new appeal.

2. Creative backdrops for reciting vows and wowing guests at your reception. They make spectacular settings for wedding photos, too.

3. Add texture to reception tables with burlap or damask brocade, depending on your style. Alternate low, lush floral arrangements with ones accented with tree, bark and berry accents.

4. Serve chocolate wedding cake or pumpkin spice with cream cheese frosting, vanilla bean cake with cinnamon buttercream, caramel cake encrusted with crushed pecans or a mini fruit and nut pies.

5. Start with warm mulled wine and hot apple toddies at cocktail hour.

Follow with a soup course, cheese plates with warm bread and other ideas that play off the season.

Winter

1. Create a winter wedding banner from fabric, lace or burlap and say “Oh Joy,” “Be Married” or “Make it Merry” for vintage charm outside your wedding venue and reception.

2. Tie deep red satin ribbon on pews, chairbacks and wedding favors for a sumptuous look.

3. Give hot cocoa or mulled cider or wine mixes in pretty containers as gifts.

4. Looking for a signature sip? Try microbrews and craft beers with custom wedding day labels.

5. Choose frosty white flowers for bouquets and add sparkle with crystal embellishments.

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 47

48 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

My job is creating

illusion – Connie Cizek

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 49

Text | Melody Parker Photos | Dawn Sagert

C

onnie Cizek’s business is making a bride’s dreams come true.

The bridal designer is owner of Petal Pusher Designs, a Cedar Valley company that takes a bride’s vision for her perfect day and makes it reality.

“My job is creating illusion. Brides are fun, and I enjoy creating a bond with them. They come to me with ideas, and I give them the style and details they want. This is the most important day of their lives, and I love to see brides gasp when they see what we’ve created for them,” Cizek says.

Cizek decided to put her art, floral and design background to work after having designed a wedding for her niece. Her business has grown mostly by word-of-mouth — “friends of friends who’ve seen my work want me to do their weddings, too.”

50 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

Cizek quickly earned a reputation for wellthought-out details and a layered approach to her designs. Assisted by Robbie Fye Leach and a small crew, the decorating phase is executed efficiently and effectively from ceremony location to reception site.

Libbie Bauer and Kevin McCulloch credit Cizek for the creative floral arrangements, lighting motifs and inventive touches that made their July 2011 wedding special, such as large floral balls with crystals that dangled from shepherd’s hooks and lanterns at each pew in the church and frothy garland-and-flower, tulle- and light-draped pillars that surrounded the couple as they recited their vows.

The Petal Pusher Designs portfolio includes other sophisticated, elegant weddings as well as themed weddings ranging from a western motif with cowboys boots as flower vases, a Mickey Mouse wedding, an Irish wedding and one that used feathers as the bride’s bouquet. She’s also done daring floral arrangements, exotic fish in glass cylinders, and has grown succulents —hens and chicks and other sedum varieties — as decor in a wedding.

Cizek’s signature is the handle on her bridal bouquets. Each one is different and distinctive to the bride. “That’s important to me because it sets me apart. I’ve worked with flowers for more than 20 years, and I get to use my artistic background.

I put a lot of heart and soul into how each one looks.”

Her use of unique materials and willingness to take risks are part-and-parcel of her service. Her husband and son fabricate in metal and wood the Weddings Essentials 2013

designs Cizek comes up with for everything from elaborate candelabras to one-of-a-kind laser-cut two- and three-dimensional forms.

“These are set pieces that can be staged to look different at each wedding. A bride will see something I’ve done at another wedding and want that, too, and I ask them, ‘Don’t you want your wedding to be different, to reflect who you are?’ One of my first questions is ‘What do you want, give me the words that describe your perfect wedding.’ “It’s an awesome job — the creativity and challenge is right up my alley.”

Cizek studied at the Chicago Art Institute and later transferred to the University of Northern Iowa where she earned a degree in art. She also worked in interior and floral design, and used art as her creative outlet when she worked with the hearing impaired for nearly 20 years.

“She’s always open to new ideas. A bride will come in with an idea and she builds on it,” says Leach. “A bride doesn’t always know what’s possible, and Connie loves to pull things off that are beautiful and fit the bride’s vision.”

Cizek recently purchased the Riverside Lodge near Waterloo and is renovating it for weddings.

An outdoor altar is planned, and the site should be completed in 2013. She also rents out the arches, pillars, metal trees, candelabra, glass lanterns, shepherd’s hooks and other pieces in her collection.

For more information, contact Petal Pusher Designs at (319) 231-9562 or visit www.ppdesignsbyconnie.com or email connie@ppdesignsbyconnie.com. www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 51

An old chicken feeder held cones of confetti, bird seed and rose petals for guests. The cones were made from copies of pages from an old book and tied with pink ribbons.

Seating arrangements were tacked to an antique door. A simple flower-filled glass vase was fitted with a crocheted sleeve found at a thrift store and fastened with a bow.

Crimped-edge programs, printed front and back, were made into fans by the bride with craft sticks, hot glue and ribbons.

An elegant wedding cake, adorned with sweet pink carnations, was displayed on a bejeweled cake stand that was a gift from the bride’s sister.

rustic

Icy cold Cokes — the “real thing” with pure cane sugar — were passed in antique Coke crates.

Empty beer bottles were washed and labels removed, wrapped in jute and tied to large, heavy branches pounded into the ground and filled with flowers.

Inspirations Sweetly sophisticated with vintage and rustic touches

Mismatched antique dishes and crystal goblets dressed lace linen tablecloths with frayed natural and ivory burlap runners and flowers made of tulle, netting and burlap.

Vintage and new lanterns were given a romantic touch with candles and flowers.

Wrought iron shepherd’s hooks hold candle-filled glass lanterns and colorful flower balls at the end of each church pew.

Floating candles in tall glass cylindrical vases are sophisticated touches at the reception.

Pitchers hold sand poured together in a keepsake frame by the couple during a sand blending ceremony.

The bride wanted her grandmothers’ glittering brooches to adorn her bridal bouquet, and wedding cake, below.

The multi-tiered cake created by Cakes by Isabelle also features a pearl motif as another nod to grandmothers.

Fun hats, fake mustaches, wigs and other disguises were on hand for guests to wear as they stepped into a photo booth at the reception.

Modern Inspirations Layers of details in this wedding are awe-inspiring

The couple’s monogram was used as a decorative element throughout the wedding.

You’ve booked the reception site, now it’s time to

plan the party!

A

wedding cake to cut and champagne or punch for toasting are all that’s really needed for a reception. The rest is, simply, icing on the cake.

Whether it’s a potluck or brunch, cocktails or open bar, buffet or sit-down dinner, the reception should reflect the couple’s style and preferences — and budget. This is one area where it’s very easy to go overboard, particularly on liquor and champagne, and you’ll wind up writing a budget-breaking check.

A catered affair

If more than 50 guests will be attending, it’s better to have the affair catered. The bride and groom don’t need to be overwhelmed with planning and details, and not enjoy their wedding. Some facilities offer catering services for a fee, and other locations allow the couple to use a private caterer.

Ask friends for recommendations. It’s also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau.

Call caterers from your list for availability for your wedding date and time. Then start jotting down specifics on your checklist.

Ask the caterer about sampling and what else they supply — china, silverware, crystal, linens, cake plates, punch fountains, servers. See our planning form for tracking answers to your questions and the caterers contacted.

DIY reception If it’s a small wedding, you can draft family and friends to pitch in and cater your own cake-andchampagne reception, even a simple buffet. The easiest buffet builds on meat platters and specialty items available at supermarkets, delis and restaurants. Decide on your menu, call for price estimates based on the number of guests, and ask if it’s possible to taste-test before making a decision.

If you like what you sample, place your order.

Fill in gaps with your own recipes. Several months before the wedding, prepare and freeze dishes you plan to serve. Thaw and sample. Lasagna is a great dish to freeze and thaw in quantities.

If the thawed dishes taste and look great, include them on your menu. If not, back to the stove.

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2013 Weddings Essentials

Dan Phillips Photography

Other details to consider: Call caterers from your list for availability for your wedding date and time. Then start jotting down specifics on your checklist.

Catchlight Imaging

Check to see if the reception site has food storage facilities, such as refrigerator. You may have to borrow or rent coolers to keep items cold and chafing dishes to keep hot food at the right (safe) temperature.

Ask a family member or friend to pick up and deliver food to the site if the event isn’t catered. Plan on extras — no one wants to run out of food at a buffet.

At a cake-champagne reception, cake servers can keep the line moving and nut and mint cups filled.

Otherwise, consider hiring servers to keep the buffet in order.

Infinite Image Design

Small details matter. Tell servers what to wear and ask them to arrive early to help set up. Make arrangements for clean-up crew. Set up a timetable for when service begins and ends. Have helpers set up tables and prepare food service areas several hours in advance.

Studio D Photography

Weddings Essentials 2013

Decide between no bar, a hosted bar or tray service. Hire a bartender, if necessary, and if there is a bar, make sure it is fully stocked. Don’t forget ice and beverage options for those who don’t imbibe.

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 55

T

Cake Glossary ake the guesswork out of wedding cake decorations by learning a little of the lingo. Then you won’t have to resort to drawing a picture or using phrases like “those little squiggly lines and things” to describe what your dream cake should look like.

Basketweave: A piping technique that features interwoven vertical and horizontal lines (like a wicker basket).

Buttercream: A smooth, creamy icing that stays soft so it’s easy to cut through. It can be colored and/or flavored. Also used to create piping, swags, and other borders, as well as decorative rosettes. It can be used as filling, too. Buttercream is made from butter (as its name implies), so it may melt in extreme heat or humidity.

Dotted swiss: A piping technique that forms tiny dots in random patterns that resemble a fine dotted swiss fabric.

Dragees: Round, edible sugar balls coated with silver or gold and used for decorative purposes.

Fondant: A sweet, elastic icing made of sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin that’s literally rolled out with a rolling pin and draped over a cake. It’s a smooth, firm base for gum paste flowers, decorative details, and architectural designs, and has a porcelain finish. Note: A fondant cake should not be refrigerated.

Ganache: A sweet, rich chocolate, denser than mousse but less dense than fudge, which can be used as icing or filling. Note: Because ganache is made of chocolate and heavy cream, it will soften in very humid weather.

Gum paste: This paste of sugar, cornstarch, and gelatin is used to mold realistic-looking fruits and flowers to garnish a cake. Gum paste decorations are edible and will last for years as keep-

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sakes, but, say some, they don’t taste as yummy as marzipan.

Marzipan: A paste made of ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, used to mold edible flowers or fruit to decorate the cake. Marzipan can also be rolled in sheets, like fondant, and used as icing.

Pillars: Separators used in a tiered cake.They can be made of plastic or wood in several lengths to achieve the desired look.

Piping: Decorative details created using a pastry bag and various metal tips. Piping details include leaves, borders, basket-weave patterns, and flowers.

Pulled sugar: A technique in which boiled sugar is manipulated and pulled to produce flowers and bows.

Royal icing: Made of egg whites and confectionary sugar, this icing starts life as a soft paste piped from a pastry bag to create latticework, beading, bows, and flowers. When dry, its texture is hard and brittle — do not refrigerate.

Torte: A dense cake that does not use leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda.

Whipped cream: Heavy cream beaten to achieve a thick consistency. Whipped cream does not work well as an icing, and must be kept refrigerated — it is unstable and not recommended for outdoor weddings.

2013 Weddings Essentials

Biggs Photogrpahy

Dan Phillips Photography

Studio D Photogrpahy

Studio D Photography

Dan Phillips Photography

Weddings Essentials 2013

Catchlight Imaging

Catchlight Imaging

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 57

CATERING WORKSHEET 1

2

Caterer Address Phone/Contact E-mail & Web address Hours Samples (Yes No) FOOD TYPE SERVICE Appetizers/hors d’oeuvres Buffet Sit-down Menu choices (appetizers/meat/side dishes) QUESTIONS Observe an event by caterer?

Ratio of servers to guests?

Multiple food stations?

Price per person Wedding cake/cutting?

Leftovers / cleanup EQUIPMENT Food display/serving Tables/chairs provided?

Table linens/napkins?

How will servers dress?

BEVERAGES Will caterer serve alcohol?

Choices of beverage Alcohol/non-Alcohol cost Champagne/wine cost OVERALL COST Sales tax included in price?

Gratuities included?

Cancellation policy Overtime charge Total cost Deposit Balance/Due 58 | www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

2013 Weddings Essentials

resources

REHEARSAL HALL DIRECTORY

H

is proposal was music to your ears. Now it’s time to put your florist, cake baker and caterer on speed-dial. When choosing a reception site, check out its size and determine whether it will fit your style of reception and number of guests expected to attend. Find out what services are provided. Will you have to bring your own frills to make it a pretty backdrop for wedding photography?

Think budget and remember to read each contract before signing on the dotted line. Ask about cancellation policies, deposit amounts and when the balance is due.

To assist our readers, here’s a listing of metro area reception halls: American Legion Post 138, 619 Franklin St., Waterloo, 234-8511 Details: Open to public, accommodates 100-150; book early; $250 per floor, $50 deposit; kitchen, bartender costs extra; no on-site catering; tables, chairs included, linens not; decorating one to two hours before; dance floor.

Beaver Hills Country Club, 8230 Beaver Hills Drive, Cedar Falls, 266-1975, www.beaverhills.com Details: Open to public, booking upon availability; accommodates up to 250; $500 for room; set up, clean up included; on-site buffet or sit-down style catering, about $15 per person; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; decorating early depends on availability; dance floor.

Cedar Falls Womans Club, Third and Clay Streets, Cedar Falls, 266-1431 Details: Beautifully restored 1860s home with ballroom, parlor and boardroom. Catering available. Call for booking details and services.

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, 1927 E. Orange Road.

East of Hawkeye Community College. 226-4966 www.cedarvalleyarboretum.org., Details: A variety of garden settings will accommodate 200 guests. $300 for six hour period. $100 non-refundable deposit to reserve date a minimum of 60 days in advance; $200 balance and damage deposit due one week prior which will be refunded in case of rain. On site dressing room; restrooms and limited electrical access to the gardens. Gardens remain open to the public. Smoking and alcohol prohibited. No rice, bird seed, confetti, rose petals or balloons.

Centennial Oaks Golf Club, Eagle Ridge Drive, Waverly, 483-1765, ask for Lisa Details: Accommodates intimate gatherings to large receptions up to 400 guests; on-site catering and bar services; customized menus; chairs, tables, linens provided; outside ceremony site, on-site event coordinator, professional wait staff, dance floor, complimentary set-up and tear-down.

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Center Inn Banquet Facilities, 209 Main St., Readlyn, 279-3839, www.centerinn.com Details: Dining room accommodates up to 75, ballroom accommodates up to 400; banquet room rental Sunday-Thursday, $150, Friday and Saturday, $300; dining room rental Monday-Sunday, $75; basement rental $50; deposit and credit billing $100, required to confirm all bookings, non-refundable; post-event clean up, $100.

The Centre Hall, 1211 4th St., SW, Waverly, 352-1386, www.thecentrehall.com Details: Accommodates up to 600 guest; day prior to event setup $175; day after cleanup $175; event date, 250 chairs & 30 tables $400, each additional 50 chairs and 5 tables $100; kitchen access $40.

Electric Park Ballroom, 310 W. Conger St., Waterloo, 233-3050, www.nationalcattlecongress.com Details: Accommodates 600 banquet style, fire code allows 1,200; book at least six months in advance; $660 for facility, $250 deposit; on-site catering only, buffet and sit-down; $9 cold meat buffet, $13.75 two-meat buffet, $13 to $18 per plate; set up, clean up, two bartenders included; tables, chairs provided, linens rented at $4 each; smoking permitted; decorating day before depends on availability; no decorations from ceiling or light fixtures; wood floor, stage.

Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center, W. Fourth Street and Commercial, Waterloo, 233-7560 Details: Accommodates 100 to 1,100; book up to 18 months in advance; $600 for facility, $600 deposit; full setup, cleanup, bar included; draped, skirted head table on risers with microphone; on-site catering only; dinner or hors d’oeuvres buffet, sit-down dinner, $15.95 to $23.95 per person; can bring wedding cake; round tables, cake table, chairs, white linens provided; dance floor.

Fox Ridge Golf Club, Highway 20, Dike, 989-2213, www.golffoxridge.com Details: Accommodates 320 people; bookings one month in advance; room rental $900 with $250 deposit (nonrefundable/applied toward rental), includes setup, cleanup and bar, dance floor; additional charges for linens and place settings. Catering available on-site, $18.95 per person buffet-style, no room rental fee if club does the catering (linens included); decorating at noon the day before wedding.

Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, University of Northern Iowa campus, Cedar Falls, 273-3660, www.gbpac.com Details: Lobby hall accommodates up to 120 banquet style, 300 standing; book six months to a year in advance; $600, $300 deposit; on-site catering only by UNI catering; tables, chairs, linens provided; balcony, grand central staircase; decorating day before event; dance floor.

Grout Museum District, 503 South St, Waterloo, 234-6357, www.gmdistrict.org Details: Main building accommodates up to 300, $300-$700 for facility, $100 damage deposit. Tables, chairs, linens, set-up and cleanup included. Cash or open bar available. No on-site catering. Kitchen and dance floor available.

Snowden House accommodates up to 150, $50 an hour; $100 damage deposit. Tables, chairs, set-up and cleanup included. No on-site catering. Kitchen available. No dancing at Snowden House.

2013 Weddings Essentials

Hartman Reserve Nature Center, 657 Reserve Drive, Cedar Falls, 277-2187, www.hartmanreserve.org Details: Accommodates up to 100; booking at least six months in advance; weekends $45 per hour, weekdays $40 per hour; $200 deposit, more to bring in alcohol; no on-site catering; kitchen access, tables, chairs included; PA system; non-smoking; decks with scenic overview, bridge, outside amphitheater seats up to 100, fireplace; decorating early requires rental; no dance floor.

Hickory Hills Park, 3338 Hickory Hills Road, La Porte City, 266-6813, www.co.black-hawkia.s/depts/conservation Details: Accommodates 125; book up to two years in advance; pricing varies, two-day wedding packages available; $100 deposit, more if bringing in beer keg; no on-site catering; restrooms, kitchen facilities (pots/pans not provided); tables, chairs for 125 are provided, additional seating allowed; beer, wine coolers allowed; lakefront view; decorating early requires rental; outlets for DJ; cement floor; attached deck, air-conditioning.

Clarion Inn, 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls, 277-2239, ext. 324, www.kinseth.com Details: Enjoy the convenience of your reception and hotel accommodations under one roof; mezzanine and plaza seat up to 350, banquet hall seats up to 300; full service catering, $16.95 to $22.95 per plate; free honeymoon suite with whirlpool for bride and groom; special overnight rates for wedding guests; rehearsal dinner, gift opening, bridal shower available; tables, chairs, linens, skirting, security, bar, bartender provided; some decorations provided, decorating 8 a.m. day of event; dance floor, table for disc jockey.

Janesville Riviera Roose Community Center, 307 Maple St., Janesville (319) 987-3512 or (319) 231-7660.

The center is a modern, fully accessible facility managed by the Janesville Community Center Board of Directors. Its small town location on approximately 10 acres of land near the Cedar River provides an ideal setting for weddings and receptions, as well as reunions, anniversaries, retreats and business meetings. The center features a large hall with banquet seating for 350, a wood dance floor, commercial kitchen, bar and a large outdoor patio. Parking is adjacent to the building. For more details, visit www.jvrrcc.com.

Knights of Columbus, 1955 Locke Ave., Waterloo, 234-6908, ask for Jim Details: Accommodates up to 264 guests; rental fee includes bartender, chairs, tables, paper tablecloths, set up and clean up; food options include buffet dinners, sandwiches and/or appetizers; hall includes dance floor with stage for band or DJ; handicapped accessible; private parking lot; located near Crossroads Shopping Center and numerous hotels.

Pepsi Pavilion, National Cattle Congress grounds, 232-5801, www.nationalcattlecongress.com Details: Accommodates 100-500; $550, $250 deposit; on-site buffetstyle catering only, starts at $11.50 per plate; tables, chairs included; linens rented for $3 each, 50 cents per napkin; full bar; smoking permitted; decorating afternoon before depends on availability; dance floor.

Riverview Conference Center, 439 N. Division St., Cedar Falls, 2680787, www.riverviewconferencecenter.com Details: Accommodates 200; recommended booking six months before; per person fee $1.25 for groups 150 or fewer, $1 for more than 150; $80 minimum, $50 deposit; on-site catering only, $5 to $6 per plate; no alcohol allowed; tables, chairs included, linens not; nonsmoking; decorating day before depends on availability; patio block floor, stage.

Riviera-Roose Community Center, 307 Maple St., Janesville, (319) 987-3512.

Recently remodeled, the community center features a well-lit, wide open space with easy access to an outdoor grassy area.

Rotary Reserve, 5932 N. Union Road, Cedar Falls, 266-6813, www.co.black-hawk.ia.us/depts/conservation Details: Accommodates 300; book up to two years in advance; $650 for all day Saturday; package deals include $800 for both Friday and Saturday night, $925 for all day Friday and Saturday, $650 for Thursday night and all day Friday; weekday times range from $195 to $275, $100 increase on holidays; $200 deposit two weeks prior to event; no on-site catering; kitchen, restrooms; tables, chairs provided for 300 guests; linens, cooking utensils not provided; beer, wine, champagne only; uniformed security officer required if serving alcohol; non-smoking; remote location on banks of Cedar River, deck, gazebo, fireplace, PA system, concrete floor, air-conditioned/heated; changing rooms for both men and women available.

Sunnyside Country Club, 1600 Olympic Drive, Waterloo, 234-1707, www.sunnysidecountryclub.com Details: Members only; ballroom seats 270; booking depends on availability; no rental fee for members; on-site sit-down or buffet-style catering only, average $23 per plate; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; decorating early allowed; dance floor.

The Supervisors’ Club, 3265 Dewitt Road, Waterloo, 233-6069, ask for Donna or Casie Details: Accommodates up to 400 in a non-smoking environment; $900 rental includes bartenders, chairs, tables and cleaning; linens

Oster Regent Theatre, 103 Main St., Cedar Falls, 277-5283, www.cedarnet.org/regent Details: Accommodates 80-100; book early; $175, $50 deposit; no onsite catering; can serve own alcohol but cannot sell to guests; kitchen with serving area, sink, refrigerator, microwave; tables, chairs provided for 100; linens rented for $3 each; room overlooks Cedar River; decorating day before depends on availability; hardwood dance floor.

Park Place Event Centre, 1521 Technology Parkway, Suite B, Cedar Falls, 277-1255, www.barmuda.com/park_place/weddings.php Details: Intimate gatherings to grand receptions accommodating up to 500 people (seated). Services range from customized menus and personalized favors, and event coordinators can coordinate the entire wedding. For customized prices, packages and deposits, call Park Place.

Inspired Focus

Weddings Essentials 2013

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings | 61

extra; full bar and food capabilities; option of appetizers, sandwiches, two-meat buffet or served, sit-down dinner; DJ or band stage and dance floor; handicapped accessible; close parking; located off of Ridgeway Avenue between Waterloo and Cedar Falls.

University of Northern Iowa Slife Ballroom and Georgian Lounge, 1227 W. 27th St., Cedar Falls, 273-2333, www.uni.edu/dor/dining/catering Details: Ballroom seats up to 220; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; $500 for ballroom, $200 for neighboring lounge; half of estimated cost paid in advance, remainder due at event; set up, clean up included; on-site catering only, dinner $15.55 to $22 per person, buffet, sit down or cocktail reception available; will cut and serve cake; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar; non-smoking; no open flames, nails or excessive glitter; can provide centerpieces, bouquets, card basket; patio attached to lounge; sound system in ballroom; portable risers for band, DJ, head table; wood dance floor.

University of Northern Iowa Maucker Union Ballroom, 1227 W. 27th St., Cedar Falls, 273-2256, www.uni.edu/maucker Details: Ballroom features flexible options that can accommodate groups as small as 50 to as large as 480; reservations accepted up to two years in advance; $300-700; deposit half of rental; linens, tables, chairs, risers, microphone, set up, clean up, included; additional A/V equipment available; bar, on-site catering provided by UNI Catering; decorating day before depending on availability; dance floor included.

Inspired Focus

Briggs Photography

Wartburg College, 100 Wartburg Blvd., Waverly, 352-8453, ask for Margaret, www.wartburg.edu/studentcenter/conferences.html Details: Open to public; accommodates up to 400 banquet style; booking depends on availability, usually book during summer or student breaks; mobile partitions divide three rooms, $100 for each room, half of estimated total paid ahead; on-site sit-down or buffet-style catering only

by Wartburg food service, $11 to $18 per person, appetizer reception $1.90 to $3 per person; tables, chairs, linens provided; bar serves wine, beer only; decorating day ahead costs extra; can provide centerpieces; staging for head table provided for extra fee; DVD, Power Point, video, sound equipment; dance floor can be rented.

Waterloo Center for the Arts, 225 Commercial St., Waterloo, 291-4490, www.waterloocenterforthearts.org Details: Accommodates up to 250; book as far in advance as desired; $350 to $485; $200 non-refundable deposit; no on-site catering; kitchen available; set up, clean up included, kitchen clean up not; round or square tables, chairs provided; additional charge for alcohol, beer, wine, champagne can be purchased prior to or with a cash bar; water fountain in front of building for photos; decorating day before costs extra; stage, microphones, sound system available; dance floor.

Waterloo Elks Lodge, 407 E. Park Ave., Waterloo, 234-7568, Randi Leuenhagen randi290@qwestoffice.net Details: Room rental with member sponsor; $600 guest fee; accommodates up to 375; on-site catering only, $15 to $25 per person plus tax and gratuity; tables, chairs included; fee for bartender, linens; decorating day before depends on availability; luxurious atmosphere, stage for bands or DJ, dance floor; plenty of on-site parking.

Waverly Golf and Country Club, 705 Eighth St. SW, Waverly, 352-3855, www.waverlycountryclub.com Details: Open to public for rental; accommodates 3500; book about a year in advance; $600, $100 deposit; on-site sit down or buffet-style catering only; one-meat buffet $12.95, two-meat $14.95, three-meat $16.95 per person, call for sit-down meal prices; can bring in wedding cake; tables, chairs, bartender, waitresses, linens $1 per person; decorating night before depends on availability; dance floor.

Catchlight Imaging

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To list or update your reception site listing for the next issue of Weddings, call 291-1429 or e-mail melody.parker@wcfcourier.com.

2013 Weddings Essentials

™

WAVERLY

HEALTH CENTER

Catering

WHAT YOUR WEDDING IS LOOKING FOR Fresh & Silk Flowers | Wedding Cakes | Full Catering Service Wines & Champagnes | Ice Sculptures

Contact our Catering Specialists: Chef Haley Silhacek

Barb Holven

2834 Ansborough Ave, Waterloo | 233.3266

4000 University Ave, Waterloo | 236.0580

Kim Gardner

Amy Dall

1422 Flammang Dr, Waterloo | 234.7523

6301 University Ave, Cedar Falls | 266.7535

Roxie Wagner-Parecki 2181 Logan Ave, Waterloo | 234.8627

Kim Walton

1311 4th Street SW, Waverly | 352.1365

Mess Hall

NEWLY RENO

VATED!

Lobby

Snowden House

occasion

Your Special Deserves a Special

location!

If you are interested in booking, or would like to schedule an appointment to see our facilities, please contact Rachel Fritts at 319-234-6357, or e-mail rachel.fritts@gmdistrict.org.

W W W .G R O U T M U S E U M D I S T R I C T . O R G

Contact General Manager John Habermann @ 319.483.1765 www.centennialoaks.com

RESOURCE DIRECTORY 2013 A MOMENT IN THYME 14 819 LongView, Cedar Falls, 319-269-6658 BACK IN BLACK MIDTOWN 11 501 Sycamore St., Waterloo 8th Floor of the Historic Black’s Building 319-235-1521 Website?

BARMUDA 55 CORPORATION PARK PLACE 1521 Technology Pkwy Ste B Cedar Falls 319-277-1255, fax 319-268-7298 www.barmuda.com BASKET OF DAISIES 44 208 Main St., Cedar Falls, 319-277-3286

ELEGANT AFFAIR 15 215 Main St., Cedar Falls 319-277-5655 www.elegantaffairbridal.com EVENTS BY JOSIE 9 PO Box 822, Cedar Falls 319-404-1371 www.EventsByJosie.com FACETS BY SUSONG 2 201 E. Tower Park Dr., Waterloo 319-233-5357 www.Facetsbysusong.com Recognized as industry leaders in custom jewelry design.

BLACKHAWK HOTEL 43 115 Main St., Cedar Falls, 319-277-1161 CEDAR FALLS 13 WOMEN’S CLUB 304 Clay St., Cedar Falls 319-266-1431 www.cedarfallswomensclub.com CENTENNIAL OAKS 63 GOLF CLUB 19 Eagle Ridge Dr., Waverly 319-483-1765 www.Centennialoaks.com CLARION INN 16 5826 University Ave., Cedar Falls 319-277-2230 www.clarioncedarfalls.com Located across from College Square Mall and close to the UNI Campus and historic downtown, this full-service hotel with banquet space is great for weddings.

DAN PHILLIPS 44 PHOTOGRAPHY Cedar Falls, IA, 319-230-6893 www.dpphoto.org

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FAYTHE KUBIK 13 319-232-7594 FOX RIDGE GOLF CLUB 66 355 Country Club Ln., Dike 319-989-2213 www.Golffoxridge.com GROUT MUSEUM DISTRICT 63 503 South St., Waterloo, 319-234-6357

KAREN’S PRINT RITE 4 2515 Falls Ave., Waterloo 319-235-6085 LOVE AND LACE 6 220 Bremer Ave., Waverly 319-352-0243 www.Loveandlace.net MILROY’S TUXEDOS 31 2060 Crossroads Blvd., Waterloo Iowa 319-235-1463 4th and Washington, Cedar Falls 319-277-5315 PALACE CLOTHIERS 33 2110 Kimball Ave., Waterloo 319-234-7537 312 Main St., Cedar Falls 319-268-1958 PRECIEUX ART JEWELERS 9 6015 University Ave., Cedar Falls 319-277-0717 PRINTERY 14 215 W. Bremer Ave., Waverly 319-352-5822 www.printerprinting.com RAMADA HOTEL 67 5 Sullivan Brothers Convention Center 4th and Commercial, Waterloo 319-233-7560 www.Ramadawaterloo.com

HILTON GARDEN INN 4 7213 Nordic Dr., Cedar Falls 319-266-6611 Facebook\hgicedarfalls HY-VEE 63 WATERLOO 2834 Ansborough Ave., 319-233-3266 2181 Logan Ave., 319-234-8627 Crossroads Center 1422 Flammang Dr. 319-234-7523 4000 University Ave., 319-236-0580 CEDAR FALLS College Square Mall 6301 University Ave. 319-266-7535 WAVERLY 1311 4th Street SW, 319-352-1365 JANESVILLE COMMUNITY 11 CENTER 307 Maple St., Janesville 319-987-3512 www.jvrcc.com

RANDALLS 33 320 5th St., Hudson 319-988-3377 RIDDLES JEWELRY 19 Crossroads Center 2060 Crossroads Ctr, Ste 244, Waterloo 319-233-7641 College Square Mall 6301 University Ave Cedar Falls 319-277-2250 www.riddlesjewelry.com Prestigious jeweler with 2 locations in the Cedar Valley providing over 50 years of jewelry service. They carry unique bridal

2013 Weddings Essentials

Riddles continued –

sets along with ring for the groom and a wide array of bridal jewelry that will fit the special occasion.

ROTH JEWELERS 35 229 E. 5th St., Waterloo 319-234-6979 www.rothjewelers.com Your experience at Roth Jewelers begins with your engagement ring and continues with every anniversary, birthday and all special occasions.

SHORTS TRAVEL 44 1203 West Ridgeway, Waterloo 319-433-0863 www.shortstravel.com SIMPLY I DO 28 3205 Hudson Rd., Cedar Falls 319-277-1117 www.simply-ido.com

SPECIAL OCCASIONS 68 PARTY & EVENT RENTAL 323 W. 15th St., Waterloo 319-234-3104 www.specialoccasionsrental.com They rent everything imaginable for truly memorable weddings.

UNI CATERING 22 University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls 319-273-2333 www.uni.edu/catering VARISTY CLEANERS 30 216 W 11th St., Waterloo 319.233.3571, fax 319.833.1937 Ridgeway Plaza 2120 Kimball Ave., Waterloo, 319-232-0116 323 Washington St., Cedar Falls 319-266-2882 WAVERLY COUNTRY CLUB 66 705 8th St SW, Waverly 319-352-3855

THE CENTRE 27 1211 4th St. Southwest, Waverly 319-352-1386 THE SPA AT WAVERLY 63 HEALTH CENTER 312 9th St. SW, Waverly 319-483-4894 www.thespaatWHC.org

Style made easy!

Amazing ideas for every wedding detail: > Gorgeous gowns > Beautiful flowers > Great cakes > Reception inspiration & more WATCH FOR THE SPRING ISSUE Coming March 21 Enter monthly drawings for prizes from our area advertisers:

www.wcfcourier.com/weddings

Available for pick-up at Hy-Vee & Fareway stores as well as participating advertiser locations.

MARRIAGE LICENSE LOCATIONS Allamakee County County Recorder 110 Allamakee St. Waukon, IA 52172 (319) 568-2364 Benton County County Clerk 111 E. Fourth St. Vinton, IA 52349 (319) 472-3309 Black Hawk County Recorder’s Office 316 E. Fifth St. Waterloo, IA 50706 (319) 833-3012 Bremer County Recorder’s Office 415 E. Bremer Ave. Waverly, IA 50677 (319) 352-0401

Buchanan County Recorder’s Office 210 Fifth Ave., NE Independence, IA 50644 (319) 334-4259 Butler County Recorder’s Office 428 Sixth St. Allison, IA 50602 (319) 267-2735 Chickasaw County Recorder’s Office 8 E. Prospect St. New Hampton, IA 50659 (641) 394-2336 Clayton County Recorder’s Office 111 High St. Elkader, IA 52043 (319) 245-2710

Delaware County Recorder’s Office 301 E. Main St. Manchester, IA 52057 (319) 927-4665 Fayette County Recorder’s Office 114 N. Vine West Union, IA 52175 (319) 422-3687 Floyd County Recorder’s Office 101 S. Main Courthouse Charles City, IA 50231 (641) 257-6154 Franklin County Recorder’s Office 12 First Ave., NW Hampton, IA 50441 (641) 456-5675

Grundy County Recorder’s Office 706 G Ave. Grundy Center, IA 50638 (319) 824-3234 Hardin County Recorder’s Office 1215 Edgington Ave. Eldora, IA 50627 (641) 939-8178 Tama County Recorder’s Office 100 West High Toledo, IA 52342 (641) 484-3320 Winneshiek County Recorder’s Office 201 W. Main St. Decorah, IA 52101 (319) 382-3486

2 banquet rooms 2 fully stocked bars 1 professional chef 18 hole golf course Visit us at www.waverlycc.com or contact Manager Scott Thorson at (319) 352-3855 or at wcountryclub@gmail.com

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2013 Weddings Essentials

Your dream Your day

OUR EXPERTISE

www.specialoccasionsrental.com 323 West 15th St. Waterloo | 319.234.3104 or 1.800.531.5797 WO-012612014