Bridal Guide 2019

Bridal guide JA N UA RY 20 19

River Country Event Center

Our venue is the perfect country setting for a peaceful, magical destination wedding or party.

We have a Covered Bridge and a Rustic Reception Hall that seats 250 or more with tent rental. Also a Bridal Building.

Call: 320-212-1500 Ken Johnson 320-979-2705 Kay Johnson 6 4 0 1 1 6 1 S T AV E N E • N E W L O N D O N , M N 5 6 2 7 3

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Erica Dischino / Tribune Florist Dani Fuchs of Wild at Heart arranges flowers into a vase at her shop in New London.

Flowers add to memories PUT THE STAMP ON COUPLE’S SPECIAL DAY

By Shelby Lindrud

I

slindrud@wctrib.com

t is usually the bride and groom who are the center of attention at their wedding. However, a lot of pieces go into making a wedding memorable – including the flowers.

Whether the couple goes classic and traditional or more unique and modern, flowers are a way to put one’s stamp on the celebration.

“Flowers add a personal touch,” said Dani Fuchs, owner of Wild at Heart Floral in New London.

Flowers like roses and lilies still remain some of the most popular floral choices for weddings, but Fuchs said some simpler blooms are getting their moment in the sun.

“Right now a lot of your wildflowers are popular as well,” Fuchs said.

It is all connected to the country chic theme to weddings that has been popular for several years now. Instead of

huge, elaborate centerpieces and bouquets, couples are turning to wildflowers in mason jars and simpler wedding bouquets.

“It is a cost effective way to make a statement,” Fuchs said. “A lot of brides are becoming aware of how much money goes into a wedding.”

According to The Knot, an online wedding resource, in 2017 couples spent approximately $2,379, on average, for flowers and decor for their wedding.

The location of weddings has also changed, which can impact what kind of flowers couples decide to use.

“A lot of people are getting married in barns instead of churches,” Fuchs said.

Another floral trend is using succulents or many different flowers in one piece.

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Erica Dischino / Tribune Blush colors, as well as maroons and wines, are a popular choice for wedding flowers.

Continued from page 3 “Succulents are the biggest thing right now,” Fuchs said.

“Using multiple flowers gives it a lot of texture.”

Choices

If a bride decides she wants to dry her bouquet, the types of flowers are important. Roses and daisies dry very well, while others can fall apart.

“Calla lilies don’t dry easily,” Fuchs said.

Top colors for wedding flowers recently have been blushes and lavenders, while also mixing in dusty greens.

This again matches the country vibe many weddings are trying to achieve recently, Fuchs said.

“They want to do a garden look.”

Some people come prepared with ideas when they meet with Fuchs. She said a lot of floral ideas come from

Pinterest or Google. Last year she had four to five brides come in with the same exact picture.

“None of them turned out the same,” Fuchs said.

For those who need a little bit more help deciding, Fuchs is there to assist.

“Find your most favorite bouquet you could ever want.

Show me your dream wedding and we can go from there,” Fuchs said. “I can get a little feel of what direction they want to go in.”

Plan ahead

Fuchs recommends people order their flowers at least three months in advance, because it can take Fuchs a couple of months to receive the flowers she orders from her suppliers.

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Erica Dischino / Tribune Dani Fuchs of Wild at Heart Floral cuts the stems of the flowers to put into a vase.

“I can get most flowers” year-round, Fuchs said.

Fuchs does warn that real flowers in winter can pose a challenge, especially if pictures are being taken outside.

The flowers in the bouquets will freeze and, when they are brought back inside, as they thaw they will get mushy, Fuchs said. A solution for that is using silk flowers. Fuchs said they can look as beautiful as real flowers and last forever, though they can be more expensive.

The florist

Fuchs has been a florist since 2012; she opened Wild at Heart three years ago. How she got into the flower business is pretty unique. She was watching a movie

called “Love Happens” where the main character was a florist.

“She made it look really fun,” Fuchs said. “Something clicked and that is what I wanted to be.”

Fuchs’ favorite wedding flower project is the bride’s bouquet.

“I like the challenge of making it awesome,” Fuchs said, adding she also enjoys putting together the centerpieces and seeing how everything goes together at the end.

Whatever a couple’s style or budget Fuchs recommends having flowers, even if it is just a few roses in a bouquet.

“They always add to a picture,” Fuchs said.

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Metro Graphics

Taste reigns supreme at weddings featuring creative menus.

T

Unconventional wedding menu ideas

raditionally, one of the more memorable aspects of wedding receptions is the food. Whether it was fun, tasty or something entirely new for guests, food tends to leave a lasting impression.

The experts at Boho Weddings say that, more than ever before, couples are seeking menu ideas that reflect their personalities as a couple as they seek to make a statement

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at their events. Celebrating with delicious, unique foods can make receptions that much more amazing.

Bite-sized bursts

Tapas and a movement toward small bites has started to take hold at wedding receptions. Such a choice allows guests to try many different flavors without filling up too quickly.

Food trucks/carts Outdoor weddings can be enhanced with the addition of trendy food trucks. These restaurants on wheels can inject burgers, sandwiches, international delights, crepes, noodles, and so many more flavors into a wedding.

High-end options Couples may want to give guests a taste of the lavish with olive oil and vinegar tasting stations, whiskey bars, French hors d’oeuvres, Kobe beef sliders, lobster tails, risotto stations, and more.

Childhood favorites When it comes time for dessert, some couples opt to avoid or downplay wedding cakes in favor of something simpler. A cookie-and-milk bar, doughnut holes, soft pretzel stations, pie pops, or dessert shot jars push creativity and sweetness to new levels. Doit-yourself dessert stations, such as s’more-making and ice cream sundae stations, also can be big hits.

Couples are increasingly feeling less beholden to traditional wedding reception menus as they look to infuse their personal tastes into the foods they plan to serve their guests. Many catering managers and chefs welcome the chance to work with couples looking to create unique reception menus.

Did You Know?

A first dance song at the wedding reception often sets the tone for the upcoming festivities and can exemplify just how newlyweds feel about each other.

Couples may agonize over which song to choose, but there are many different resources available that can help couples narrow down their options.

Spotify, the popular streaming music service, has compiled a list of the most popular wedding songs for 2018, based on global respondents. Their top pick was “Perfect,” by Ed Sheeran, a song that many might suspect was composed with wedding dances in mind.

Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” Etta James’ “At Last,” John Legend’s “All of Me,” and Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” filled out the remaining top five spots on Spotify’s list.

Check us out on Facebook.

Stop by and see us at the bridal showcase.

Our goal is to make your reception exceptional!

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From sliders to mini grilled cheese to soup shots to bite-sized pizzas, many of these small bites feature flavors borrowed from familiar comfort foods – just presented on a miniature scale.

Comfort stations and bars Couples who love comfort food can put it on display with a crostini station, a mashed potato bar, a chicken and waffles station, a gourmet popcorn snack station, or a ramen noodle bar.

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Metro Graphics

How couples can benefit from hiring local wedding vendors

L

ocal vendors are often a go-to choice when couples are planning their wedding ceremonies and receptions. As the “shop local” movement grows in popularity, weddings present a prime opportunity to embrace this movement.

Couples may have different ideas regarding where to

Wedding cakes and desserts for weddings of any size and budget

2019

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tie the knot, but local vendors can be hired regardless of geography.

Brides magazine says the biggest factor influencing wedding location is the size of the guest list and the number of people who wouldn’t be able to attend if the wedding was in a particular locale.

We look forward to getting started on your wedding!

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Hometowns might be the traditional choice regarding wedding location, but the XO Group says one in four couples now host destination weddings.

Once couples choose a town or city to host their weddings, they can begin exploring the benefits of working with locally-based vendors.

Familiarity

Savings

Couples who travel for their weddings and employ local vendors will not have to pack as much. Using local vendors eliminates the need to bring along bulky dresses, decorative items, flowers, and much more. Plus, couples needn’t pay to transport and house vendors brought along from back home.

Local vendors will be familiar with the area and possibly even the location where the wedding will be held.

That can help couples avoid having to give directions, discuss venue protocols, and handle other tasks that must be worked out with non-local vendors. For example, local photographers familiar with a particular venue will know all of the best places to get shots, and some vendors may have pre-existing relationships with venue representatives that could ensure wedding day operations go smoothly.

Environment

Proximity

Working with local vendors often translates into getting more personalized service and attention than mass retailers or merchants can provide.

Going local when choosing wedding vendors is an increasingly popular choice among couples about to tie the knot.

Local vendors can meet with brides and grooms more readily throughout the planning process, making things less stressful on the happy couple. This also makes it easier to drop off deposits, attend meetings, make fitting appointments, or attend styling sessions.

Individuals who take great strides to conserve resources by reducing their energy consumption and protecting the environment often find that shopping local is beneficial.

Local vendors are more likely to source their materials from other local businesses, reducing their carbon footprints along the way. For example, local caterers may rely on local farmers for their foods, affording couples the chance to host eco-friendly or even farm-to-table weddings.

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THE BRIDE ’S

Wedding Checklist

The details involved in wedding planning may seem overwhelming at times.

Here is a helpful checklist to keep your planning on track.

6-12 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Select a wedding date & time ☐ Make a preliminary budget ☐ Select bridal attendants ☐ Plan reception ☐ Determine the type of wedding you want ☐ Reserve your ceremony & reception location ☐ Determine who will officiate at the ceremony ☐ Hire a wedding consultant, if you plan to use one ☐ Decide on your color scheme ☐ Determine the size of your guest list ☐ Start compiling names & addresses of guests ☐ Have fiancé select attendants ☐ Check catering facilities, if at a club or hotel ☐ Select a caterer, if one is necessary ☐ Select a professional photographer ☐ Select a reliable, creative florist ☐ Select your dress and headpiece ☐ Announce your engagement in the newspaper 4 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Make final arrangements for ceremony (deposits paid, contracts signed) ☐ Make sure all bridal attire is ordered ☐ Have both mothers coordinate and select their dresses ☐ Register at a bridal registry in the towns of both families ☐ Order invitations and personal stationary ☐ Complete the guest list and compile them in order ☐ Select the men’s wedding attire and reserve the right sizes ☐ Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state ☐ Make appointment for physical exam (if your state requires one) ☐ Shop for wedding rings ☐ Start planning the honeymoon ☐ Decide where you will live after

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the wedding Begin shopping for trousseau

2 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Address invitations and announcements.

They should be mailed four to six weeks before the wedding ☐ Finalize all details with caterer, photographer, florist, reception hall manager, musicians, etc ☐ Order wedding cake, if not supplied by caterer ☐ Finalize ceremony details with officiant ☐ Make rehearsal arrangements ☐ Plan rehearsal dinner ☐ Plan bridesmaid’s luncheon ☐ Make appointment with hair dresser ☐ Arrange accommodations for out-oftown 1 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Have a final fitting for your gown and bridal attendant’s dresses ☐ Have a formal bridal portrait done ☐ Complete all physical or dental appointments ☐ Get blood test and marriage license ☐ Make transportation arrangements for wedding day ☐ Purchase gifts for attendants ☐ Purchase gift for fiancé, if gifts are be exchanged ☐ Have the bridesmaid’s luncheon ☐ Purchase going away outfit ☐ Keep a careful record of all gifts received (write thank-you notes immediately instead of letting them pile up) ☐ Make sure you have all accessories, toasting goblets, ring pillow, garter, candles, etc ☐ Select a responsible person to handle guest book and determine its location 2 WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Attend to business and legal details.

Get necessary forms to change names on Social Security card, driver’s license,

insurance and medical plans, bank accounts; make a will ☐ Prepare wedding announcements to be sent to the newspaper ☐ Reconfirm accommodations for out-of town guests ☐ Arrange to have possessions and gifts moved to your new home. Give a change-of-address card to the post office ☐ Finish addressing announcements to be mailed on the wedding day THE WEEK BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Contact guests who have not responded ☐ Give the final count to the caterer to review details ☐ Go over final details with all professional services you have engaged.

Inform them of any changes ☐ Give photographer the list of pictures you want ☐ Give all musicians the list of music for the ceremony and reception ☐ Plan the seating arrangments ☐ Arrange for someone to assist with last-minute seating errands and help you dress ☐ Practice having your hair done to make sure it comes out properly, and deter mine the time it will take ☐ Practice using your make-up in the same type of lighting you will have on the wedding date ☐ Keep up with writing your thank-you notes ☐ Pack your suitcase for the honeymoon ☐ Make sure you have the wedding rings, and they fit ☐ Make sure all wedding attire is picked up and it fits ☐ Have a rehearsal with all participants, reviewing their duties ☐ Attend a rehearsal dinner party, stay calm and enjoy yourself

THE GROOM’S

Wedding Checklist The bride is not the only one with planning to do!

Here’s what the groom should do before the big day:

6-12 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Discuss with fiancé the date and type of wedding ☐ Start on your guest list ☐ Choose best man and ushers ☐ Start planning and making arrangements for the honeymoon 4 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Shop with fiancé for wedding ring ☐ Complete your guest list, including full

names, addresses and phone numbers ☐ Check requirements for marriage license ☐ Select and order men’s wedding attire

with fiancé ☐ Finalize all honeymoon plans and send in deposits if required 2 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ Meet with officiant to finalize ceremony details ☐ Assist parents with plans for the rehearsal dinner party ☐ Discuss the amount and the financial arrangement for the flowers that are the groom’s responsibility ☐ Arrange accommodations for out-of-town attendants 1 MONTH BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐ See that all attendants have been fitted and wedding attire has been ordered ☐ Purchase gifts for groomsmen and ushers ☐ Purchase wedding gifts for fiancé, if gifts are being exchanged ☐ Pick up wedding rings and make

☐

sure they fit Take care of business and legal affairs (add fiancé’s name to insurance policies and medical plans, make a will, add her name to a joint checking account, or joint charge cards

2 WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐

Together with fiancé, gather necessasry documents and get your marriage license

☐

Arrange wedding day transportation

☐

Reconfirm accommodations for

☐

If moving, give change of address card

out-of-town guests to post office; arrange to have utilities and phone service turned on in new home ☐

Have your hair cut

THE WEEK BEFORE THE WEDDING ☐

Discuss all final details with fiancé, offer to assist if needed

☐

Pick up and try on wedding attire

☐

See the attendants get their wedding attire

☐

If flying, make sure you have plane tickets

☐

See to it that you and your attendants are at the rehearsal and that they know their duties

☐

Go over special seating or pew cards with ushers

☐

Make sure luggage is in the car or the

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hotel where you will stay your first night Attend rehearsal dinner, relax and

enjoy yourself

DON’T FORGET TO: HONOR THE GROOMSMEN Weddings are all about the brides, or so it would seem. While all eyes are on the bride, the groom sometimes goes unnoticed. One person who shouldn’t fail to notice the groomsmen is the groom himself. Groomsmen can and often do have significant responsibilites. A good groom should recognize the efforts of his groomsmen and give gifts as an aknowledegment of their efforts.

FOLLOWING ARE SOME GIFT IDEAS: COMMEMORATE THE RECEPTION Men tend to focus on the celebratory aspects of the day. Grooms can give a personalized gift as a means of commemorating the day.

REMINISCE THE BACHELOR PARTY These days, weekend getaways are a common theme to many bachelor parties.

Consider gifts that evoke memories of that special weekend where you were the guest of honor.

TAKE THE MORE FANCIFUL ROUTE For grooms whose wedding will be an elegant affair, celebrate that elegance by giving each of your groomsmen and engraved pocket watch.

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Ceremony Planner

DATE________________TIME_______________LOCATION______________________________________________________ ADDRESS________________CONTACT_______________PHONE _________________________FEE___________________ REHEARSAL_____________________________________________DATE_______________________TIME_______________ OFFICIANT(S)____________________________________________OFFICIANT(S) PHONE____________________________ # OF ROWS RESERVED_____________________# OF PEOPLE___________________________________________________ PEW 1 ________________ PEW 2 ________________ PEW 3 ________________ PEW _______________________________ CEREMONY MUSIC SELECTIONS: _________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Photography

Videography

PHOTOGRAPHER___________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ EMAIL_____________________________________________ CONTACT_______________PHONE____________________ NUMBER OF HOURS BOOKED________________________ PACKAGE DESCRIPTION_______________PRICE________ NUMBER OF PHOTOS TAKEN_________________________ DATE PREVIEWS WILL BE READY______________________ ADDITIONAL REPRINTS COSTS_______________________

VIDEOGRAPHER___________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ EMAIL_____________________________________________ CONTACT_______________PHONE____________________ NUMBER OF HOURS BOOKED________________________ PACKAGE DESCRIPTION_______________PRICE________ NUMBER OF HOURS TOTAL TAPING___________________ DATE FINISHED TAPE WILL BE READY_________________ COST OF ADDITIONAL COPIES_______________________

Important Contacts

BRIDE ’S AT TIRE BRIDAL SHOP______________________________________ CONSULTANT______________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ ALTERATIONS______________________________________ FITTING DATES_____________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PICK-UP DATE______________________________________

GROOM’S AT TIRE TUXEDO STORE_____________________________________ CONSULTANT______________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PICK-UP DATE______________________________________

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FLOWERS

FLORIST___________________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ CONTACT_________________________________________

STATIONERY PRINTER/STATIONER________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE__________________CONTACT_________________ ORDER DATE___________________DATE READY_________ # CEREMONY GUESTS_____# RECEPTION GUESTS______

CAKE BAKERY___________________________________________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ CONTACT_________________________________________

Reception Planner

DATE________________TIME_______________LOCATION______________________________________________________ ADDRESS_____________________________CONTACT_________________________PHONE _________________________ FEE___________________DEPOSIT_______________________FOOD SERVICE TIME_______________________________ CANCELLATION TERMS___________________________________________________________________________________

DOES FACILIT Y PROVIDE

DINNER/RECEPTION MUSIC

ACCESS FOR DECORATING?__________________________ DANCE FLOOR?____________________________________ SECURITY?________________________________________ ADEQUATE PARKING?_______________________________ SETUP?__________________________CLEANUP?________ SERVERS?______________________HOW MANY?________ BARTENDERS?__________________HOW MANY?________ TABLES & CHAIRS?__________________________________ HANDICAP ACCESS?________________________________ VALET PARKING?___________________________________

GROUP/BAND/DJ___________________________________ CONTACT_________________________________________ PHONE____________________________________________ PLAYING FROM _________________TO_________________ NEED EARLY SET UP TIME?__________________________ COST______________________DEPOSIT________________ BALANCE DUE_____________WHEN___________________

Catering Planner

CATERER_______________________ADDRESS________________________________CONTACT_______________________ PHONE_____________________________________________________SERVICE DATE____________TIME______________ RECEPTION LOCATION____________________________________PRICE__________________________________________ MENU

COST LIQUOR & BEVERAGES SUPPLIER__________________CONTACT_______________ ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE__________________PICK-UP/DELIVER__________ OPEN BAR FROM________________TO_________________ CASH BAR FROM________________TO_________________ CHAMPAGNE FOR TOAST _____WINE(S) FOR DINNER___ OTHER BEVERAGES______________COST______________

PER PERSON________ X NUMBER OF GUESTS__________ = TOTAL___________________________________________

DOES COST COVER

ALL NECESSARY EQUIPMENT?_______________________ CHINA & FLATWARE?_______________________________ ROOM SETUP?_____________________________________ TAXES & GRATUITY?________________________________ CAKE CUTTING?____________________________________

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Expense List WEDDING PARTIES

CEREMONY

ENGAGEMENT PARTY $_________ BRIDESMAID’S LUNCH $_________ REHEARSAL DINNER $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

LOCATION FEE $_________ OFFICIANT FEE $_________ MARRIAGE LICENSE $_________ DECORATIONS $_________ PROGRAM PRINTING $_________ AISLE RUNNER $_________ RINGS $_________ PILLOW $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

TRANSPORTATION LIMOUSINES $_________ TRANSPORT FOR GUESTS $_________ PARKING $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

BRIDE ’S AT TIRE WEDDING DRESS $_________ ALTERATIONS $_________ HEADPIECE & VEIL $_________ SHOES $_________ ACCESSORIES $_________ JEWLERY $_________ DRESSES FOR OTHER PARTIES $_________ UNDERGARMENTS $_________ HAIR STYLING $_________ MANICURE/PEDICURE $_________ COSMETICS $_________ SKINCARE $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

MUSIC CEREMONY MUSICIANS $_________ BAND/DJ $_________ EXTRA MUSICIANS $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

HONEYMOON TRANSPORTATION $_________ ACCOMMODATIONS $_________ FOOD $_________ CLOTHING $_________ ENTERTAINMENT $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

CORRESPONDENCE GROOMS’S AT TIRE TUXEDO $_________ SHOES $_________ CUFF LINKS $_________ HAIR STYLING $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

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STATIONARY $_________ INVITATIONS $_________ ANNOUNCEMENTS $_________ THANK-YOU CARDS $_________ AT-HOME CARDS $_________ STAMPS $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

Expense List FLOWERS CEREMONY ARRANGEMENTS $_________ BRIDE’S BOUQUET $_________ GROOM’S BOUTONNIERE $_________ BRIDESMAID’S BOUQUETS $_________ CORSAGES & BOUTONNIERES $_________ FLOWER GIRL/ RINGBEARER $_________ RECEPTION CENTERPIECES $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

RECEPTION RECEPTION SITE FEE $_________ DECORATIONS $_________ HOR D’ OEUVRES $_________ MAIN MEAL $_________ WEDDING CAKE $_________ OTHER DESSERT $_________ CAKE TOP $_________ CAKE KNIFE $_________ WINE & CHAMPAGNE $_________ OTHER BEVERAGE $_________ TOASTING GLASSES $_________ PLACE CARDS $_________ MONOGRAMMED NAPKINS $_________ RENTAL OF TABLEWARE, TENTS, FURNITURE, ETC $_________ TIPS & FEES TO FOOD SERVERS, DOORMEN, COATCHECK, VALET, ETC $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY ENGAGEMENT PORTRAIT $_________ WEDDING & RECEPTION $_________ WEDDING ALBUM $_________ PARENT’S ALBUMS $_________ EXTRA PRINTS $_________ VIDEOGRAPHY $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

MISCELL ANEOUS WEDDING CONSULTANT $_________ GUEST FAVORS $_________ BIRDSEED/ CONFETTI PACKETS $_________ GUEST BOOK & PEN $_________ MISC. FEES & TIPS $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

GIF TS GIFTS TO EACH OTHER $_________ MATRON (MAID) OF HONOR $_________ BEST MAN $_________ BRIDESMAIDS/ GROOMSMEN $_________ PARENTS $_________ OTHER $_________ TOTAL $_________

TOTAL WEDDING BUDGET ______________________________

NOTES

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Metro Graphics

M

Secrets to at-home weddings

any couples preparing for their trip down the aisle follow the familiar sentiments expressed

by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz.” Such couples feel “there’s no place like home” when hosting a wedding ceremony or reception.

There are many benefits to hosting a wedding at home.

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Homes often hold couples’ most cherished memories, and hosting a backyard celebration or an intimate indoor ceremony at your own home or the abode of a loved one can be a cost-effective way to have a good time.

Here are some tips to help couples navigate hosting an at-home wedding.

Assess the space

The average home is not equipped to handle hundreds of guests, wait staff, caterers and parked cars. Concessions in regard to comfort and safety will have to be made when drawing up the guest list.

The wedding resource The Knot advises the general rule is six- to 10 square-feet of floor space per guest for row seating. You’ll probably need even more space for buffet tables, seating and a dance floor.

You will likely need to temporarily move furniture to comfortably fit everyone indoors – or rent a large enough tent for a backyard wedding.

Hire a cleaning service

It’s important to present a clean, inviting space when hosting a wedding at home. A cleaning service will conduct a thorough cleaning before and after the festivities, freeing up your time for last-minute tasks or to embark on your honeymoon.

Let us help you plan your special day. Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort offers everything you need for the perfect dinner, reception or dance.

From hotel rooms to ballrooms and buffets to platted meals, we have everything you need to make your day extra special including video screens, dance floors, projectors, backdrops, chair covers and the area’s most elegant ballrooms.

Book an officiant early

Confirm with an officiant that they can oversee the wedding proceedings at your home. Many religious officials are not able to perform ceremonies outside of a place of worship.

Learn if it’s legal

Certain municipalities may require permits for parking on street, noise past a certain hour, closing of streets, and much more. Do your research. You may need to coordinate parking at a nearby lot (like a school closed on the weekend) and shuttle people to your home.

Consult with an insurance carrier

Inquire if having such a large party at home is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, particularly if your home is damaged or someone gets injured during the festivities. Supplemental liability insurance or an umbrella policy may offer greater protection. Weddings at home can be a unique opportunity for couples who love the comfort and familiarity of their homes.

McKale’s Catering Weddings · Reunions · Groom’s Dinners · Social Events · On-Site Charcoal Grilling

Call 320-354-2007

Contact Sales Manager, Elaine Balderston today and start planning.

Con Mention promotional code: BRIDE19a and receive a free audio visual package worth up to $500 including rental of a dance floor, projector, screen and LED lighting.

1.866.293.2121 | Granite Falls, MN sales@prairiesedgecasino.com www.prairiesedgecasino.com

Lisa & Phil Quam, Owners 320-354-2007 606 4th Ave. SW-Cnty. Rd. 40W, New London www.mckalescatering.com - 33 Years Experience

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Metro Graphics

Things to consider when choosing a wedding party

M

aking the important decision to get married can fill couples with joy and excitement as they imagine spending the rest of their lives together.

Naturally, brides- and grooms-to-be are anxious to share

the good news with others and include family and friends in the festivities. One way couples exemplify inclusion is by asking their closest acquaintances to be part of their wedding parties.

Ali Hormann Photography

Brand New!

Event Center & GrandStay® Hotel & Suites Ali Hormann Photography

•

Seating for up to 300 guests

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Beautiful views overlooking West Central Minnesota’s premier 27-hole public golf course

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Full on-site catering service

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Wedding packages available

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Discounted bridal suites

Photo credit: Ali Hormann Photography

For more information, contact Amy Johnson, Director of Sales & Marketing 320.347.1500, ext. 503 | sales@littlecrowresort.com | 15980 Hwy 23 NE, Spicer, MN

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Golf Gather Stay

Being asked to serve as a bridesmaid or groomsman is an honor. Some couples may be tempted to ask every friend, sibling or cousin they have to be in their wedding parties, and some do.

In fact, ancient Roman law required 10 witnesses to be part of the wedding ceremony. However, the larger the wedding party, the more people couples have to coordinate and the more personalities they must manage.

While large wedding parties are in style, there isn’t any one-size-fits-all formula to decide which size party is right for a particular situation. Trends vary based on geography and culture. These tips can help couples decide on the size of their wedding parties.

• Match it to scope and style. Wedding planners may use a standard ratio for a proportion of guests to wedding party members. That ratio is one pair of wedding attendants for every 50 guests. This creates a balanced feel where the more people in attendance, the larger the wedding party and vice versa.

• Consider your expenses. Wedding party members may be asked to spend considerable amounts of money to be in the wedding, but the couple will have certain

expenses tied to the wedding party as well. These can include limousines to ferry people between the ceremony and reception, photography costs to arrange and photograph large wedding parties, the cost of boutonnieres and bouquets, attendants’ gifts, as well as extra mouths to feed at the rehearsal dinner. Small wedding parties can be easier on couples’ budgets.

• Know your expectations. Couples should discuss what they expect from their wedding parties. Do couples want their loved ones to be very hands-on or waiting in the wings? For those who want a lot of input from their wedding parties, asking distant friends or family to be included may be impractical.

• Select reliable, easy-going people. Wedding party members should be people couples can rely on, and it only helps if wedding party members are not prone to overreacting. Choose a wedding party that can be trusted and people with whom you get along.

Wedding party sizes are up to the couple, but bigger isn’t always better.

Keep your Wedding Gown Forever Young

Chest is encased in a heavy plastic envelope.

One piece hinged cover Inner cover window

SERVICE

PROTECTS THE LOVELINESS OF YOUR WEDDING GOWN

Protect and preserve the beauty of your wedding gown for all the years to come.

Now, through a modern miracle of cleaning and packaging, you can keep your gown as fresh and beautiful as the day you said “I do.”

Our unique service protects fabrics from light, dust, bacteria, moths and other airborne pollutants that destroy loveliness. Give your wedding gown and other cherished heirlooms a life-giving treat that can last a lifetime…entrust them to us for the ultimate in protective packaging and care.

108 Minnesota Ave. | Willmar, MN | 235-2545

Never shipped out!

Our Keepsake Pak Service is processed right here at Schwegman’s Cleaners in Willmar.

Sturdy double reinforced sides

Transparent window Grown inside visible in blue tissue wrapping

SCIENTIFIC PROTECTION: Is assured with the beautifully constructed and embossed chest shown above. After careful cleansing your gown is folded into layers of protective tissue placed in the chest and sealed with an inner cover containing a transparent plastic window. With outer lid closed, the entire chest is inserted into a plastic envelope and sealed.

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320.634.0307

180 South Lakeshore Drive Glenwood

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OUR

Open 7 days a week See us on Facebook!

You’re invited to start your life together on beautiful Lake Minnewaska!

Elegant ballroom Restaurant • Lounge

Previous guests have said “Scenic setting” “Stylish” “Excellent service” “Fabulous food” WEST CENTRAL TRIBUNE - JANUARY 2019 - 19

SERVICE DIRECTORY ACCESSORIES

BEAUTY

Print Masters 919 1st St S, Willmar, MN 320-235-8055, www.printmastersofwillmar.com

It’s About Hair 17 North Main St., New London, MN 320-354-2373

ALTERATION

Bombshells & Brows Salon & Microblading 1004 1st St S, Willmar, MN 320-403-5009, www.bombshellsandbrows.com

Schwegman’s Cleaners 108 Minnesota Ave SW, Willmar, MN 320-235-2545, www.schwegmanscleaner.com

ATTIRE & ACCESORIES The Special Event Boutique & Bridal Hwy 29 & 30th Ave, Alexandria, MN 320-762-0633, www.specialeventbridal.com

BAKERY New London Bakery 21 Main Street North, New London, MN 320-354-2243 Benson Bakery 1305 Pacific Ave, Benson, MN 320-842-4681, www.bensonbakery.com Cold Spring Bakery 308 Main St., Cold Spring, MN 320-685-8681, www.coldspringbakery.com Cash Wise 1300 5th St SE, Willmar, MN 320-235-2485, www.cashwise.com

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CATERING Heglund Catering 1707 18th St. NE, Willmar, MN 320-235-5822, www.heglundcatering.com McKales Catering 606 4th Ave SW, New London, MN 320-354-2007, www.mckalescatering.com

EXTRAS Laurie’s Design - Kim Brouwer 11801 142nd Street SW, Raymond, MN 320-967-4775, www.lauriesdesign.com Anytime Fitness 1605 1st St S, Willmar, MN 320-441-2300, www.anytimefitness.com/ gyms/31/willmar-mn-56201/ Clean Site LLC, 320-894-7160, www.cleansitellc@gmail.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY FLORAL

TRAVEL

Wild at Heart 61 Main Street South, Ste. 6, New London, MN 320-444-0552, www.wildatheartmn.com

Travel by Tonia 320-979-7383, www.facebook.com/travelbytonia/

Paws Floral 303 Pleasant Ave, Atwater, MN 320-974-8680, www.pawsfloristatwater.com Grace & Thorn Floral 1314 Atlantic Ave, Benson, MN 320-843-3900, www.bensonmnfloral.com

LIQUOR STORE Cash Wise 1300 5th St SE, Willmar, MN 320-235-2485, www.cashwise.com

LODGING Paynesville Inn & Suites 700 Diekman Dr, Paynesville, MN 320-243-4146, www.paynesvilleinn.com

MUSIC Jason Anderson, Priority Sound & Light 507-530-3742, www.prioritysoundandlight.com Music By Meder New London, MN 320-796-5266, find us on Facebook

VENUE The Oaks at Eagle Creek 1000 26th Ave. NE, Willmar, MN 320-235-4448, www.oaksateaglecreek.com Glacial Ridge Winery 15455 Old Mill Rd, Spicer, MN 320-796-9463, www.glacialridgewinery.com Padua Pub 33945 County Rd 18, Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-2683 Lakeside 180 So. Lakeshore Dr, Glenwood, MN 320-760-4987, www.glenwoodlakeside.com Little Crow Golf Resort 15980 Hwy 23 NE, Spicer, MN 320-347-1500, www.LittleCrowResort.com Queen Bee’s Bar and Grill, 121 James St, Paynesville, MN 320-243-3975, www.queenbeesbar.com Willmar American Legion 220 19th Ave. SW, Willmar, MN 320-235-8136

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO

Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center 12718 10th St NE, Spicer, MN 320-354-5894, www.prairiewoodselc.org

Vows on Video 24635 130th St, Herman, MN 320-808-0340, www.vowsonvideo.net

Spicer Legion American Legion 545 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 320-796-5542 Prairie’s Edge Casino 5616 Prairie’s Edge Ln, Granite Falls, MN 320-564-4175, www.prairiesedgecasino.com WEST CENTRAL TRIBUNE - JANUARY 2019 - 21

{ your magical day } WILL BE SHOWCASED BY OUR BEAUTIFUL VENUE

Your fairy tale begins as your guests witness the exchange of vows among the sweeping trees and manicured golf course lawn. Our Chef prepared meals that will delight your taste buds. Then let the dancing begin with full bar service in our updated, stylish banquet room.

The Oaks at Eagle Creek

1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar MN

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catering@theoaksateaglecreek.com

320-235-4448

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Off premise catering and bar services available

If you are looking for clean, sanitary portable restroom facilities in Southwest Minnesota…

LOOK NO FURTHER than CLEAN SITE LLC!

We offer a full line of mobile and portable restrooms from basic one stall units to mobile trailers with multiple facilities.

Whatever your needs are, we have the perfect solution.

Weddings and other Large Events: Choose our multi-stall mobile trailer, available in two sizes.

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Our 22 foot mobile trailer has 4 women’s stalls, porcelain flush toilets, a sink, mirror and lighting. The men’s side has a 3 urinals, 1 stall, a sink, mirror and lights. This unit is perfect for weddings and special occasions. Our 14 foot mobile trailer has 3 women’s stalls, flush toilets, a sink, mirror and outdoor lighting. The men’s side has a urinal, 1 stall, a sink, mirror and outdoor lighting.

HONEYMOON DREAMS COME TRUE

Plan and create your trip of a lifetime with a honeymoon expert. Whether you’re planning a few days or a few weeks, I specialize in stress free honeymoons and destination weddings. I have the expertise and experience to deliver the best value in all the exotic places.

Schedule your personal consultation today!

Travel by Tonia

(320) 979-7383

theridlers@hotmail.com https://www.facebook.com/travelbytonia/

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