Brides and Bouquets

Brides

Bouquets The Best Local Vendors Fun Ideas and Inspiration The Latest Wedding Trends Planning Tips for a Perfect Party

Augusta’s Signature Bridal Event Sunday, February 24, 2013

Front Cover Photo Courtesy of: Andy Donnan Donnan Photo LLC www.donnanphoto.com facebook.com/donnanphoto 678-820-8238 ~ 706-346-8238 Front Cover Gown: The House of the Bride 493 Highland Ave. Augusta GA 30909 706.736.6500 Front Cover Tuxedo: Simons Formal Wear 2701 Washington Road Suite 20 706.738.2432 Featured Couple Mr. and Mrs. Charles Graybill Moye, junior

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life and you want to look your absolute best!”

For photos on the big day, Hogan tells brides to “get ready somewhere awesome.” If brides want to capture the preparation before walking down the aisle, a messy hotel room or bathroom won’t provide the best setting. She also says that the difference between pretty reception photos and breathtaking photos is lighting: candles, chandeliers, dance floor lighting, etc.

The most important element for great photos, however, may be to enjoy the day and let your photographer and others think about the details.

“It doesn’t have to be a stressful time,” Orton says. “You’re married and in love and you can just take pictures about you guys. You don’t need to have all these props. It’s just about you.” © CTW Features

Unforgettable Moments

By Taniesha Robinson CTW Features Today’s brides are pinning, liking, sharing, posting (and still flipping through pages of glossy magazines) while on the hunt for inspiration as they plan for the big day. And not only are they gathering ideas from photos on Pinterest, Facebook and other social media sites, they’re eager to share their own.

According to a recent survey conducted by online media companies The Knot and Mashable, 1 in 3 brides update their relationship status on Facebook within hours of their engagement. And an online spread of engagement photos usually follows.

“I think that people’s style has improved and their expectations have heightened because of Pinterest, blogs

and Facebook,” says Lindsey Orton of the Provo, Utah-based Lindsey Orton Photography. She also says couples may even feel pressure to match or outdo photos their engaged or married friends have published online.

So what does (and doesn’t) make for great engagement and wedding photos brides will want to pin, post, print and share right away?

“For us, style means real, authentic, genuine moments,” says Kristyn Hogan, a Nashville, Tenn.-based photographer.

“The ability to look at a photograph and remember what it felt like to be there, to feel a connection with the moment and the memory, that’s what we always strive for and that’s what our brides come to us for.”

Many of today’s brides are turning to themes and creative story lines in their engagement and wedding photography to create memorable,

standout images.

“I think if it relates to the couple, then it’s a really great thing,” Orton says. “But unless it does, it’s kind of unnecessary. And, in twenty years people would look at it and be like, ‘What’s that?’”

Hogan loves styled shoots but echos Orton’s precaution that the theme should have a purpose and connection to the couple. “If the theme or story connects with the couple and brings out their personalities and unique relationship, I love it!” Hogan says.

Hogan’s tips for the best photos includes hiring a professional makeup artist. “[They] understand the difference between an everyday look and what you’ll want and need on your wedding day from longevity to how it shows in photos,” she writes on her blog. “You’ll have these photos for the rest of your

WHAT MAKES A GREAT VIDEO Gone are the days when brides had to recount every detail of their wedding proposal to friends and family. Now they can just whip out their mobile devices and pull up the video. “Isaac’s Live Lip-Dub Proposal,” a streetmusical marriage proposal with more than 60 participants, has more than 17 million YouTube views.

Not every bride can have such a spectacular, viral hit as a memorable keepsake, but they can incorporate video into the big day for a dazzling effect. Create a short film about the couple’s back story to play on a loop as guests arrive at the ceremony or reception. And don’t forget the videographer to complement wedding-day photography. “It’s great to have both.” Orton says.

“They both capture different

emotions.”

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Coming Up

Glamorous

By Nola Sarkisian-Miller | CTW Features

BHLDN

Long before she says “I do,” a bride has a pretty good idea of her dream dress. Whether she’s just Type A or accesses the wealth of information on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest boards galore, she’s pretty much decided if it’s Vera Wang or Amsale, strapless or oneshoulder.

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But the journey to find what she really wants may be fraught with detours. After all, what she sees on the computer screen — a sinewy number on a 5-foot, 10-inch supermodel — may not go over well on her 5-foot, 4-inch curvy frame. Or, the price of her favorite online gown may not be in the same league as her budget.

“Pinterest and social media are a blessing and a curse for bridal shops,” says Ty McBrayer, owner of Twirl Lexington, a bridal boutique in Lexington, Ky. “What they see may be a $10,000 dress, and they have a $1,000 budget. It sets standards that can’t be met with certain subjects.”

To navigate the road to her special purchase, bridal experts offer ways to keep the dream in check.

Bridal stores know that everything is about research these days when planning a wedding, especially because a typical client is of the social media generation.

(One of the first wedding blogs out there, Style Me Pretty, notes that the median age of its user is 27.) But, at the end of the research day, the ideas are someone else’s and not yours. Do what’s best for you.

Picking the color purple for your wedding because it looks pretty online may not be the best idea if it’s not a color you really like.

“I’ve had brides say that ‘I hope my real wedding is as pretty as my Pinterest wed-

ding,’” says Anne Davis, co-owner of Bliss Bride in Del Mar, Calif. “They may find the ultimate-looking wedding online, but it may not work in reality for them.”

By all means, buy your dress in person.

Feel free to canvass designer websites and social media platforms for dress options and to pester them with questions, including that of the gown’s price. Then, gather your ideas on your Pinterest page and email the link to the local bridal boutique before your appointment, but don’t buy online. If you want to get a head start on fittings, try using an iPhone app like The Knot’s Wedding Dress Look Book, which edits the dressbrowsing process by body type, personality and wedding style.

“We wouldn’t recommend ordering gowns from websites because you’re never sure if the quality of the gown is up to par,” says Lynn Annatone, marketing director for Modern Trousseau, based in Woodbridge, Conn. “You want to touch and feel it. It’s a once in a lifetime purchase so make sure you’re getting what you want. “ One of the biggest benefits of the Internet information overload is that you can save money. Finding out about sample sales used to be more of a hushhush affair. Now, designers and store owners use Facebook and Twitter to alert followers about upcoming events, including trunk shows, which often involve discounts or extra perks.

That’s how a number of brides shop for their gowns at Kleinfeld Bridal in Manhattan, says Jeylan Yolac, social media marketing manager for the store, noting that many of the store’s online followers give feedback on gown collections Kleinfeld posts.

Brides & Bouquets

PicturePerfect

How to turn your beauty inspirations into a showstopping wedding look From InStyle and People to The Knot and Pinterest, there’s no shortage of websites with photos to help you formulate your idea of big-day beautiful.

Austie Eckley, a Portland, Ore.based hair and makeup artist, says many of the brides she works with find inspiration in celebrity images because starlets typically have top stylists creating their picture-perfect looks.

The key thing, however, is to know yourself, says Megan Garmers, founder of MG Hair & Makeup,

which provides services nationwide.

Find examples of your desired look (as well as ones you don’t like), ideally on someone who looks like you.

“We all want to look like Beyoncé,” Garmers says, “but if your skin tone and hair type are more like Nicole Kidman, only a small fortune

and a really good plastic surgeon can help you.” Of course, you also can point out aspects of pictures that appeal to you, such as flawless, glowing skin like Beyoncé’s, Garmers adds. But if you, say, have short and thin hair, understand that a large bun would require extensions.

Print photos or store them on your phone or tablet and bring them to your consult, Eckley says. “Or you can email a ... link to your stylist to help her or him prepare for the trial.”

Garmers also offers an iPhone/ iPad app called iLook Beauty Book, which includes numerous hair and makeup images that you can filter through for specific beauty profiles, such as red lip, up-do, short hair, hair accessories, etc. It also links through to the artist/stylist’s website so that you can ask how they did the look, get product recommendations or inquire if they provide bridal services in your area or know of someone who does.

That said, days or even months of online research and photo accumulation only go so far. “It’s important for brides to come in with an open mind,” Eckley says, “and take advantage of your stylist’s opinion.”

—Anna Sachse © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

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Vintage

Is Trend In

Bridal Jewelry

Did you know?

For decades the month of June held firm as the most popular month for weddings. But statistics now indicate that there may be shifting preferences in the time of the year for marriages. According to The National Center for Health Statistics, July and August are now the most popular months for tying the knot in the United States. September and October have also gained momentum as premier months. Explanations for this shift vary, but it may have something to do with changing weather patterns and warmer weather now arriving later in the season than in the past. Also, getting married later in the year may make it easier for couples to secure their first choice of wedding venues.

(MS) -- “Vintage remains a strong trend in bridal jewelry,” according to Jill Maier, VP of design at CAROLEE. Harking back to the adage that “everything old is new again,” brides are favoring art deco, estate-inspired silhouettes when it comes to jewels. The mix of crystal and pearl is a signature look of CAROLEE. It’s a timeless combination fused into an array of bridal designs: florette bracelets, delicate drop earrings, vintage-inspired necklaces. Here, the bride can rest easy knowing she won’t have to sacrifice for style: the majority of the collection comes in under $100. These pretty pieces are perfect for the blushing bride and their versatility makes them ideal for the bridal party as well.

The desire to look fabulous without spending a fortune has never been quite so high. Many brides are choosing just one or two standout accessories, balancing a modern detail-oriented ceremony and reception with their minimalistic, classic ensemble.

Maier also notes, “The beauty of this jewelry is that it’s distinctive without being overwhelming. It can be worn alone and looks great layered.” Jewelry experts at the CAROLEE counter in major department stores are always a great resource for jewelry bridal tips, or click on “BRIDAL” at http://www. carolee.com for a wealth of ideas for brides and every member of the bridal party.

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Brides & Bouquets

Online and off, here’s how to find your dream location.

The Perfect Place

By Anna Sachse CTW Features Before you make an appointment to check out a potential wedding venue, chances are you’ll do a lot of online reconnaissance: Read every word on their website, click through photos and search for other couple’s reviews of the space. Here’s what you should keep in mind when doing your not-in-person first pass, and the details you can’t know outside of an in-person meeting.

Online Goals A venue’s website or Facebook page often gives a taste of the location’s style and vibe, and it should include a lot of practical information that can help narrow down the search.

“It’s very important for a bride to know exactly what type of atmosphere and environment she wants for her wedding before looking at venues,” says Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, a Dallas-based party and

lifestyle expert and author of “Wedding Inspiration: Ideas & Advice for Your Perfect Wedding” (Gibbs Smith, 2012). “It’s also important to know details like how many guests you’re aiming for, and if you want a venue that allows outside caterers or if you’re happy with one that takes care of every element of the event for you. These factors help a bride know what to watch out for and what to ignore.”

The price and availability also are key elements to search for, as there’s no point in visiting if it’s way over your budget or you aren’t able to adjust your wedding date, says Marsha Heckman, a San Franciscobased wedding planner and floral designer, and author of “A Bride’s Book of Lists: Everything You Need to Plan the Perfect Wedding, Revised and Updated” (Welcome Books, 2013). In addition, Heckman advises seeing what they say about available parking (do you have to pay a valet service?), noise restrictions, cleanup and what, if any, furni-

ture, linens, dishes, etc., are included in the price.

Definitely scan all the photos on the site and feel free to ask the venue for more, Heckman says. It’s extremely helpful to know what an outdoor space looks like in the actual month you plan to get married (flowers, furnishings, exterior lighting), she notes, or if an indoor space will have seasonal decorations that you’ll either love or hate.

Independent review sites (think Yelp or a local bridal publication) also may be helpful, but be sure to read the specifics of any complaints, as they may not apply to you. Even better, ask other wedding vendors for their insight, Whitman says.

“Florists and caterers often know what works and what doesn’t at each spot.”

In-Person Particulars When a venue seems to meet your wish list, make an appointment, Heckman says. It will be obvious right away if it doesn’t look like it

did in pictures, but you also want to make sure it’s clean and well-kept inside and out, that it meets the “sniff” test and that the restrooms are acceptable. And don’t minimize the importance of the venue staff and/or included event coordinator’s personality, Whitman adds. You’ll likely be working with these people quite a bit throughout the planning process and during your wedding, so it’s essential that you’re compatible and that they understand your vision. You also can’t get a true sense of the flow of a space until you visit it in-person, Whitman says. Walk the path that your guests will take so that you know exactly what their experience will be.

At the end of the visit, ask yourself if you can envision the space as the location for your beautiful day, Heckman says, but give yourself at least a day to decide if it is. © CTW Features

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Money Management Planning and paying for a wedding can be daunting, but couples can take control by budgeting smart

BUDGET for your BIG day

PLAN AHEAD

STICK TO YOUR BUDGET

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A F T E R “ B O T T O M I N G O U T ” at

around $22,000 a couple years ago, the average cost of a wedding has settled somewhere between $25,000 and $26,000, according to according to The Wedding Report, the Tucson, Ariz.-based wedding market research company.

Yes, that’s a hefty number, but remember that that number is an average, not a target. More than the number is how couples are behaving with the. With couples using savings and on-hand cash — read: not going into debt! —to pay for their weddings, they’re being more cautious on how they deploy their dollars. In short, they want ot be sure that they and their guests get the most out of what they spend.

For exmaple, a groom might decide it’s a better to invest a few hundred dollars in a suit he’ll wear for years rather than spend $100 to rent a tuxedo he’ll wear for one day.

Couples might decide not to overdo it on reception decorations and

instead invest more in the dinner and drinks

The Basics of the Budget To establish your magic number, look at your designated savings, contributions from parents or other relatives, and what of your regular income you can devote toward the wedding, without sabotaging your day-to-day budget.

When you’ve come up with your number, plug it in a budget formula to see how much you have to spend in each area of your wedding. Follow these estimates to get started.

Remember, the figures are just estimates, so adjust as necessary to fit your wedding’s needs: • Reception – 50% • Music – 10% • Flowers – 10% • Wedding Attire – 10% • Photo/Video – 10% • Stationery – 5% • Miscellaneous – 5% © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

Here’s to you Tips for a great best man toast The best man toast can be one of the most memorable parts of a couple’s wedding. Sometimes a toast is memorable for its humor and heartfelt sense of appreciation for the groom and his bride, while other toasts are more memorable for all the wrong reasons.

One of the reasons best man toasts can be so unpredictable is that giving a best man toast is such a unique experience. It’s something many men never do, while those who do give a best man toast may only do it once in a lifetime. It’s understandable to be nervous when asked to give a best man toast, but there are a few tricks of the trade a best man can employ to calm those nerves and ensure his toast is memorable for all the right reasons.

• Practice makes perfect. Few people are capable of standing in front of a crowd of people and speaking off the cuff. A best man should take this into account and practice his speech before the big day. A spur-of-the-moment speech may provide an adrenaline rush, but such an endeavor may come off as if you didn’t care enough to put the effort into writing a thoughtful toast

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ahead of time. In addition, practicing the toast once it’s been written will make you feel more comfortable and confident in front of the crowd.

If possible, practice in front of a friend or family member so you can solicit feedback. A friend or relative might be able to help you fine-tune the speech, which in turn can calm your nerves once you’re handed the microphone.

Avoid alcohol. Getting liquored up prior to your toast is a recipe for disaster. Though it may seem like a good idea to employ alcohol to calm your nerves and lower your inhibitions, it’s not a good idea. Consuming alcohol before your toast increases the chance that you will end up embarrassing the bride and groom as well as yourself.

Get to the point. Men and women who have attended their fair share of wedding receptions no doubt have sat through a long-winded toast from the best man or maid of honor. Such toasts can bring a festive reception to a grinding halt, and guests will likely tune out before the best man or maid of honor gets to the point. Being

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succinct should be a goal for a best man with regard to his toast. Avoid long-winded walks down Memory Lane in favor of a toast that thoughtfully cuts to the chase and lets everyone get back to celebrating.

Spin a yarn. While it’s important to be brief, don’t be so brief that no one at the reception learns about your relationship to the groom. Share a humorous anecdote from your mutual past to illustrate the type of relationship you and the groom share with one another. This story should have an element of humor but don’t include anything too embarrassing, and all ex-girlfriends should be considered off-limits.

Congratulate the couple. Because nerves play such a significant part in many best man toasts, it can be easy to forget to congratulate both the bride and groom. Don’t just toast the groom at the end of your best man speech; toast his new bride as well.

Brides & Bouquets

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Fresh

Helvetica Dek

Inspiration

Photo: Trevor Daley Photography /Design: Fleurs de France

By Megan Patsavas CTW Features

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The beautiful bouquet of peonies you envisioned carrying down the aisle in all those post-engagement wedding fantasies may not be the most realistic floral option on your inspiration board.

Although that stack of bridal magazines and all those Pinterest boards might be full of flowers from all over the country (the world, even), brides-to-be may need to consider what’s in-season, what’s available in their location and what works with their budget when planning floral arrangements.

“There’s just so many details when it comes to flowers people don’t think about as far as the storage is concerned, and ordering, and how far out you need to order and what kind are available – it’s just such a complex part of the wedding planning process,” says Sarah Chancey, owner of Chancey Charm, a wedding planning and design company based in Atlanta.

Chancey, who used to work in floral design, recommends that brides research which flowers are available in their location at different times of the year and how much they cost.

“You don’t want them to get their heart set on peonies, and they’re

Brides & Bouquets

or scaling back the expectations to meet the dollars,” says Switala, who estimates that 90 percent of the brides she works with bring her ideas they’ve gleaned from Pinterest, magazines or her website.

Sometimes a floral designer has to “get creative” and offer alternatives to fit a bride’s budget or compensate for availability.

“Depending on the flower and the month, there may be alternatives,” Switala says. “For example, peonies are not always available, so the David Austin rose is an alternative. However, they’re not that much less expensive, but it’s that ruffled look.”

“And if it’s a white hydrangea, white hydrangeas generally are less expensive than the colored one, but it depends,” Switala adds. “In the summer, they can be comparable, but some of the deeper colors, which are getting imported, are three times more.”

Fleurs de France

getting married in November and we can’t get them peonies,” Chancey says. “Or, they want these flowers that all cost an arm and a leg and they have a really small budget. They need to be realistic about … availability and price before establishing which flowers they are set on using.”

Jessica Switala, founder of the Sebastopol, Calif.-based Fleurs de France, has been in floral design for around 30 years. Though she agrees seasonality is important, she says it’s not as limiting as it used to be.

“What is local and seasonal really doesn’t have the same parameters as it used to. People don’t plan their weddings that way,” Switala says.

Instead, some brides are heading to websites and gathering inspiration from all over – can you say Pinterest?

– and then bringing their ideas for their wedding to their florist.

“The tricky part is really putting a dollar value on their expectations

With so many factors to consider, when should brides start picking the flowers for their big day?

Rani Hoover, who’s had her own wedding and event planning business for six years, Inspired Weddings & Events in Santa Barbara, Calif., says picking the right flowers depends on the size and scope of the event, and the right time to start planning depends on the bride’s tastes, as well as — you guessed it — the flower’s seasonality and availability.

“If they have exotic tastes, some things that need to be imported, the earlier the better,” Hoover says.

“If they’re more into a fresh, kind of wild flower, local, seasonal-type of arrangements, then certainly that time gets dialed way down, but it really varies according to the bride’s taste.” © CTW Features

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Brides

Bouquets Augusta’s Signature Bridal Event

Sunday, February 24, 2013 1pm to 5pm at the Augusta Convention Center 901 Reynolds St. Augusta, GA 30901 Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 at the Door Purchase tickets online at www.bridesandbouquets.com

iss e m t n’ clusiv o D r ex on ou Fashi w Sho 12

Fashion Show looks by

K_\ ?flj\ f] k_\ 9i`[\ & Simon’s Formal Wear

Brides & Bouquets

The invites, save-the-dates and all the other essential stationery. Here’s how to get your paperwork in order.

The

List! to spend around 5 percent of your budget on your stationery, including postage, but adjust as necessary depending on your guest list and paper preferences.

Save-the-Date

By Timothy R. Schulte CTW Features FACEBOOK ADDED A “Weddings and Celebrations” feature to the little box at the topright corner of the site last year, which put engagement and wedding notifications alongside birthdays and other events. The moment you change your relationship status to engaged, every one of your “friends” know about it (and some will probably send you a congratulatory note just as meaningful as the obligatory Facebook birthday wish).

However, the ability to masscommunicate instantly — with just a few taps of a touch screen, you can broadcast anything to every single person you know — does not mean people should take an e-approach to their wedding invitations. After all, there still is a sense of decorum to be had, even in the digital age.

Getting Started

Still, social networks and electronic communication can be a big help before you get to ink-and-paper

invites.

Your guest list isn’t truly finalized until you have mailing addresses for all the guests to whom you’ll send an invitation. Facebook, email and even text messages are quick and easy ways to track down info from aunts, uncles, cousins and old college friends who’ve job-hopped around the country. Just don’t make your request via a status update; you don’t want to broadcast the message to folks who will not be invited to your soirée.

Google also has a suite of Google Docs-based wedding planning tools designed to help tech-savvy couples stay on top of their “I Do” to-dos, including a collaborative guest list.

Just email the document to your guests, and they can fill in their information. Check out google.com/ weddings for more details.

With these finer points out of the way, it’s time to get into the paper details. Whether you’re getting your stationery professionally designed or going the DIY route, take a trip to a local stationery shop to get your hands on some paper and check out design styles. Typically, expect

As soon as your venue is booked, send all your guests a save-the-date.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a year out from the wedding — the point is, you want your guests to get your wedding on their schedules as soon as possible.

You don’t need to go overboard on details; just your names and the date to keep open. If you have a wedding website already set up with details about the ceremony, reception and accommodations, include the URL. And of course, you can mention that a formal invitation will follow.

Wedding Invitation and Enclosures Etiquette 101: Do not include registry information on the invitation – anywhere! You’re inviting your friends and family to join in your wedding celebration; you’re not inviting them to bring you gifts. (But yes, they do want to give you gifts, so list registry information on your wedding website.)

The actual wedding invitation is where you officially invite your guests. Plan to put these in the mail around two months prior

to your wedding. The RSVP card (self-addressed and stamped) is where guests will accept or decline invitation and, if you’re having a seated dinner, mark their dinner selection. List a date by which you’d appreciate their reply, usually four weeks before the wedding date.

Although all the pertinent details may be on your wedding website, it’s still customary to include a card separate from the invitation that lays out the wheres and whens for the reception venue (if separate) and accommodations.

Day-of Pieces

The invitation might be the main attraction, but there are still some paper pieces you need for the big day: • Programs: If you’re having a ceremony in a house of worship, this will list information on the officiant, readings, the wedding party, etc.

• Table numbers/names • Escort cards and Place cards: Escort cards tell the guest at which table they are seated. Place cards show them in which chair they are sitting.

• Menus: An outline of dinner, set with each place card, is a nice touch.

• Thank-yous: If you want to get a jump on showing your gratitude, it can be worthwhile to invest in stationery that features your newly married name.

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Augusta’s Signature Bridal Event

Mainstage

at the

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901 Reynolds Street Augusta 30901 1pm - 5pm Sunday, February 24th, 2013 Fashion Show 4pm at Mainstage Tickets available online at

bridesandbouquets.com

$10 at advance $15 at the door Brides & Bouquets

Brides & Bouquets Vendors Marriot Augusta at the Convention Center Berry’s Floral & Catering Cake Occasions Evans Fitness Garden City Events Halo Salon and Spa Holiday Inn The House of the Bride Kevin Jiminez Photography Lazer Sound Lucky Printing Northwestern Mutual Oxygen Fitness Studio Partridge Inn Savannah River Plastic Surgery Sho Ane Bridal & Formals Simons Formal Wear Rental & Sales South Carolina Photobooths Southern Siding & Windows Summerville Ace Ultimate Ride & Fitness Vacations to Remember Visions and Vows Winchester Home Builders Woodside Plantation Country Club ....and More Exclusive Fashion Show:

Dresses Provided By House of the Bride Men’s Formal Wear provided by Simons Formal Wear Hair and Makeup provided by Halo Salon and Spa Music Provided by Jeremy Davis & The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra Brides & Bouquets

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PUT A RING ON IT! TODAY, YOUR LOVE STORY LIVES online. Take the engagement, for instance.

Nearly 60 percent of brides-to-be share their “we’re getting married” news by posting a picture of their engagement ring on Facebook (though about one in five of their fiancées think doing so is tacky!), according to a proposal survey from The Knot and Men’s Health magazine.

But on your big day – and every day thereafter – your wedding band will have equal billing alongside your engagement ring, even if it may be less sparkly.

You’ll want to make sure it is cohesive with your engagement ring and, of course, that it fits your style.

Start with the metal. According to a study of wedding jewelry by The Knot, 73 percent of engagement rings are white gold, which also makes up 70 percent

of wedding bands. Whether your ring is white or yellow gold or platinum or something else altogether, you’d be in good company sticking with the same

base metal for your wedding band.

Also keep in mind design elements.

Maybe your engagement ring is a full or partial eternity band, or maybe it

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features pavé diamonds or accent gemstones. You can carry on these elements into your wedding band.

White gold also is popular for the groom, with about one-third of grooms picking a blanco band. However, alternative metals like tungsten and titanium (think golf clubs!) have grown in popularity in recent years, not just because of their unique look, but their lower price point.

Another trend for guys is “man-gagement rings.” According to the Men’s Health/The Knot survey, 17 percent of men said they would (not necessary that they do) wear a ring to let the public know they are “off the market.”

–Timothy R. Schulte © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

2 Steps

quality, price and how easy they were to work with) and email a florist or baker you love to see who tops their catering list.

to a

Step 2: Edit Yourself

Stylish

Meal

By Anna Sachse CTW Features The wedding meal and bar typically are your top wedding expenses, and with never-ending online photos and magazine editorials featuring lavish stations, chic small bites and couture cocktails, it can be easy to get ahead of yourself and your pocketbook. Here, two wedding-planning experts offer tips to balance your dream dinnerand-drinks spread with your budget realities.

Step 1: E-xplore Not sure if you’re feeling macaroni-and-cheese cupcakes and mugs of spiked cider or a raw bar and saketinis? Do a google search for different wedding reception styles and see what pops up.

“Online resources put tons of options at your finger tips,” says Wendi Hroncich, founder of Seattle-based Ethereal Events. “You’re exposed to so much more than just what’s in your area, allowing you to pull ideas from experts around the world!”

Use the images and ideas you find to build a dream menu that you can then share with your caterer and bartenders, Hroncich says. “Pinterest is amazing for helping you clarify your vision.”

Of course, inspiration shots and menu

requests are one thing, but you don’t want to go too far, to the point where you are directing your chef on how to cook.“That’s a no-no!” says Andrea Lewis, founder of Memphis-based Andrea Lewis Events. But most caterers will be open to working with you to create a special dish or two, or design a menu in the style you want that also

plays up their talents.

Need help finding the actual caterer?

A google search or wedding website may offer leads on caterers in your area.

However, the best companies are typically found via referrals from past clients or other wedding vendors, Lewis says.

Put out a request for suggestions on Facebook or Twitter (ask about food

Couples can definitely get carried away trying to do everything they see online, Hroncich says. The result can lack cohesion (sushi and fried chicken and a taco bar and sangria …) and get very expensive.

Rein yourself in by deciding on your priorities. If your goal is a big party, an ample bar will help, Lewis says, but even “ample” doesn’t have to break the bank.

She suggests offering a selection of white and red wines (Riesling to Chardonnay and Zinfandels to Merlots) and both a domestic and import beer. Kick it up a notch by offering regional products, cava or prosecco for your bubbly, and one or two favorite cocktails that you found during your online research.

If you really want it all and don’t mind a little DIY, make sure you pick a venue that doesn’t charge you to bring in your own liquor, Lewis says. “That can save a few thousand dollars on your bar tab.”

Hroncich advises keeping costs down by choosing one or two things you truly fell in love with during your research that also will make a big impact. For example, you could have that gorgeous signature cocktail with a candied-fruit stir-stick and an elegant dessert table, but skip the 20 cute appetizers that caught your eye. Or if you’re truly obsessed with small bites, focus on options that will satisfy guests faster. “Cheese and fruit will not fill people up for the night, but risotto balls and meat skewers will,” Hroncich says. And you can always ask your caterer to suggest unique and memorable dishes that are surprisingly budget-friendly, like gourmet renditions of stews, curries or even a hearty but stunning salad. © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

17

Let’s Dance!

By Timothy R. Schulte CTW Features

with your potential DJ.

You can cram into a too-small limo, stumble through your vows and even enjoy a too-well-done steak – at the end of the day, you’re going to remember the fun you had at your wedding and not a few minor details. But when it comes to the music, you don’t want to make any concessions.

Your DJ will be the arbiter of your party, single-handedly making the decisions that bring out the craziest, funniest and romantic best in you and your guests at your reception.

You want to ensure a night of great music and great memories. So, as with all vendors, ask the right questions and make sure you are a good match before you commit. Here are some things to keep in mind when meeting

When you walk into the office, are you at an office or at someone’s home?

How do you feel? Is the meeting friendly, or transactional? Do they take the time to get to know you and your fiancé as a couple, or just dive into the package options? Do they ask about your music tastes? The difference between feeling like a client and feeling like another customer is important, and it may be indicative of the service you’ll be provided.

The Vibe

The Playlist

The DJ may have all the songs you want to hear in his catalog, but how are you going to convey that to him?

Is there an online song-management system? Forms to fill out? What is the deadline to have your requests submit-

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ted? If desired songs are not available, will the DJ obtain them?

The Equipment

Take a listening test. Ask what grade of speakers and subwoofers they have and if they have backups, if need be.

See how their DJ system works for queuing up songs, fading them in and out and changing the song.

The Packages & Paperwork

Be sure to review all sound package options – including the services, number of hours, prices and payment schedule. When you’ve found the service that meets your needs, like every vendor, be sure to sign the contract and get a copy. All that’s left to do is dance. © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

Safe and Smart ways to slim down

before your wedding Many brides-to-be, and even some grooms-to-be, express concern about their weight in the weeks and months leading up to their wedding. Losing weight is a goal for many engaged couples, but it’s important that couples who want to shed a few extra pounds don’t sacrifice safety for the sake of slimming down.

According to a Cornell University study of 273 women with a wedding day approaching, 70 percent wanted to lose more than 20 pounds before their weddings. However, reality indicates that a weight loss of 5 to 10 pounds is more attainable -- more so if the weight loss regimen is spread out over several weeks. The term “brideorexia” has entered the vernacular, and it is associated with brides who are taking extreme measures to lose weight. Taking laxatives,

engaging in fluid-only diets and even using tobacco or drugs to serve as appetite suppressants are just some of the measures some brides have taken to shed weight before their wedding days.

There is no magic formula to shed pounds, but there are certain ways to jump-start and maintain the process of healthy weight loss so brides can look slimmer and healthy for their big day. * Eat. Although initial calorie curbing can help shed weight, eventually your body may adapt to your new eating habits or go into “survival mode,” which means conserving fat reserves. Researchers at Penn State University found that fasting signals to your body that it is being starved, triggering a lower metabolic rate.

Brides-to-be should never cut out food entirely. Eating anything less than 1,200 calories a day will encourage the body to try to conserve energy by lowering its metabolism.

Severe calorie restriction is not an effective way to lose weight. * Step up your exercise regimen.

Reducing food intake alone will not help you lose weight quickly. The goal is to burn more calories than you consume. Therefore, adding more cardiovascular activity to your routine can help burn calories more efficiently. According to a clinical study from researchers at Italy’s University of Padua published in the 2011 International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, eating a light meal before exercising helps you burn more fat and keeps your body burning fat even 24 hours after the exercise. * Reduce sodium intake. Sodium doesn’t necessarily lead to weight gain, but it can make it appear so.

Sodium contributes to water retention in the body, which may make you appear heavier or bloated. Cut back on foods that are high in sodium, especially as the wedding draws close, to reduce water retention.

* Identify sources of empty calories. Fruit juices, soda and other beverages are often the culprits with regards to unnecessary calorie consumption. Therefore, choose your beverages wisely and limit them to water, teas and unsweetened drinks. If you want to drink fruit juice, consider diluting it. In addition, most alcoholic beverages have 100 calories or more. While it may be tempting to celebrate with wine, champagne and mixed drinks during your engagement period, your waistline may ultimately pay the price for such indulgences. * Hire a good photographer. A camera allegedly adds 10 pounds, a reason many couples panic about their wedding day. A photo is a 2D image of a 3D object. Therefore, the photo reduces depth perception and flattens an image, which may make some items look like they have more bulk. A professional photographer will know how to manipulate lighting and angles of the camera to ensure a more flattering shot. * Eat smaller portions. Oftentimes, its not a matter of what you are eating but how much. Most portion sizes served in restaurants or even at home are double or triple the amount that you should be eating.

When in doubt, cut everything in half. * Fill up on fiber or protein. Instead of resorting to pills to suppress an appetite, simply eat foods that will fill you up naturally. High-fiber foods will bulk up in the stomach and keep you feeling satiated longer. The same can be said for lean proteins, which take longer to digest, thus fending off hunger pangs.

While losing weight for a wedding is many couples’ ultimate goal, the best way to tackle this task is in a healthy, responsible manner.

Brides & Bouquets

19

Taking the Cake How to make the dessert of your dreams a reality

By Megan Patsavas CTW Features Gorgeous-looking wedding cakes are almost ubiquitous — they grace the pages of glossy magazines, are featured in reality shows and are especially present online on wedding blogs and social sites like Pinterest. But scoring that divine, delectable cake for your own wedding might prove a little more difficult.

Sarah Chancey, owner of Chancey Charm, a wedding planning and design company based in Atlanta, suggests that brides-to-be start thinking about their wedding cake as soon as possible.

“I recommend that they start looking into cakes as far out as they can, as far as choosing a baker and reserving a date, because if they want an exceptional baker, they want to make sure that they’re on their books in plenty of time,” she says.

Erica O’Brien of Erica O’Brien Cake Design

in Hamden, Conn., recommends securing your venue first, adding that the bride also needs to know the approximate number of guests, which “will determine the size of the tiers, the number of tiers and the cost of the cake.”

The bride’s inspiration is the next part of the process. O’Brien, who has been a professional in the wedding cake industry for seven years and does about 75 wedding cakes a year, says that it is helpful for brides to have some design ideas of cakes they like as a “jumping-off point.”

She estimates that nearly 85 to 90 percent of the brides she works with have an idea, if not for their cake, at least of a general theme or feel for their wedding.

“When I first started, brides would come in with their folder or portfolio, and they clipped photos from magazines. Now, they’ll more than likely come in with an iPad and just sort of flip through some pictures,” O’Brien says.

The plethora of online inspiration available has “expanded bride’s creativity and expectations,” O’Brien says, and helps “fuel the trends.” For example, O’Brien says that last summer, she had many brides ask for cakes with a chevron pattern on them.

But bringing your baker a photo or two of the cake you love doesn’t necessarily mean she can — or will — copy it for you. “Each artist puts their own touch on it,” O’Brien says, and bakers have different philosophies on whether or not they will replicate each other’s cakes.

It’s also important to remember that photos of cakes you see in magazines or online might not be realistic — for your location or budget.

“A lot of what you see online in photo shoots are often faux cakes, and sometimes those designs are a bit more challenging to execute on a real cake in the middle of July with 95 percent humidity,” O’Brien says.

If you’re concerned about the cost of the cake, consider asking the baker to make a smaller display cake and have a sheet cake in the back

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(that no one sees) to serve to your guests.

“It’s more economical,” O’Brien says, but she cautions brides to make sure the size of the display cake looks proportional to the number of guests.

“Having a smaller cake or doing multiple cakes or pies, more of a dessert bar kind of thing, is also a great option for budget brides,” Chancey says.

Last, but definitely not least important, is the taste and flavor of the cake.

“You want to get a cake people are going to want to eat,” O’Brien says.

If couples are having trouble choosing the flavor of the cake, she suggests going with a more classic choice, such as vanilla, which will appeal to more guests.

With the right planning and the help of a great baker, brides-to-be can have the cake of their dreams. © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

Find a gown they all will love Close friends and family members are an important component of a couple’s wedding day. Individuals who are especially close to the bride and groom are often asked to become members of the wedding party, which means a bride-to-be will be asking one or more women to play an integral role in the celebration. To set these ladies apart from other guests at the wedding, they are often asked to wear coordinating bridesmaid gowns. Selecting a style and color that is fitting to the unique people of the bridal party can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.

As if choosing your maid of honor wasn’t tricky enough, you now must make a host of other decisions as well, all while playing stylist to the wedding party. Fashion sense is as unique as a fingerprint, and it is unlikely the bridesmaids will be able to agree on every aspect of the gowns they will be asked to wear.

However, there are ways to narrow down the choices and be as accommodating as possible to their needs.

Size matters

The body shapes and sizes of the women in your bridal party will be different, and this should be kept in mind when selecting a gown style and cut. There are certain dress shapes that are universally flattering,

such as A-line. Try to avoid gowns that are extremely form-fitting, as only a few of the bridesmaids may be able to pull off this look successfully. The remainder could be left feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable. Plus, form-fitting clothing will be restrictive and can be difficult to move around in -- particularly considering the gown will be worn for an entire day.

Flattering Color

As a bride you may have a colorscape in your mind for the wedding. But what looks good in table linens and flowers is not always the right choice for clothing. Take the skin tones and hair colors of your bridesmaids into consideration before choosing a dress. Green- and yellow-hued dresses may not look nice on women with olive skin tones, while very pale colors may wash out women with fair skin. Those with dark skin may need a brighter-colored dress.

Price Tag

It is an honor to be asked to be part of a bridal party, but that honor can be very expensive. The bridesmaids are expected to pay for their wardrobe, hair styling, and makeup, as well as parties and gifts for the happy couple. As a courtesy to the women who already will be investing a considerable amount to be a part of your wedding, make every effort to select a gown that is affordable. There are plenty of retailers offering stylish options that may not be as expensive as some specialty stores.

Other Tips

Once you’ve decided on the basic elements, consider the following suggestions to find a gown that the bridal party will enjoy. * Take one or two bridesmaids shopping with you. Try to select ones with opposite body types so you can see how the gown looks on a woman who is thin and one who may be more full-figured. * Think about choosing separates. The bridesmaids can mix and match tops and bottoms to find a fit that works. This may enable a woman with a larger bust size to select a top with supportive straps while another bridesmaid can opt for strapless. Many stores have increased their inventory of separates because of their growing popularity. * Choose one color and then let the bridesmaids choose the style they like the best for themselves.

The look will still be cohesive, but it won’t be boring with one type of gown. Also, each bridesmaid will be comfortable with a gown that flatters her shape. * Go with a tea-length gown. These gowns have become quite trendy and are less formal and cumbersome than full-length gowns. Plus, there is a greater likelihood that the gown can be used again at a later date. * Purchase the bridesmaid gowns at the same store where you will be purchasing your wedding gown.

Most shops will offer a courtesy discount if the bridesmaid gowns are purchased at the same store.

Ensuring bridesmaids are happy in their gowns takes a little work but will be well worth the effort.

Brides & Bouquets

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Unplug &Recharge On your Honeymoon Really?

After a year of planning and thousands of dollars spent on the wedding and now the honeymoon, you’re going to decompress by … checking in on Facebook?

According to a joint survey by The Knot.com and Mashable.com, twothirds of brides consider logging onto their social sites during their honeymoon.

Don’t.

In fact, if you can, curb the urge altogether by uninstalling your Facebook,

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Twitter and Pinterest apps from your phone and tablet before you leave for your ’moon. You worked hard to get to this point, so take the time to enjoy the post-nuptial bliss with your new spouse, not a screen.

After all, a honeymoon, while always deserved, does not come cheap! The average cost of a honeymoon in 2012 was nearly $5,000, according to Brides magazine’s 2012 American Wedding Study: Travel Edition, up from just over $3,500 in 2011. The takeaway? At the end of the wedding journey, couples are investing in themselves.

“A honeymoon is something that a couple can share together and look back on 20 or 30 years down the road,” Brides travel editor Jacqueline Gifford says. “They’re spending money/investing in creating a memory that will last a lifetime, rather than a material object that they’ll be over in two years.” © CTW Features

Brides & Bouquets

Determining if a destination wedding is for you When the time comes to walk down the aisle, more and more couples are choosing to make the procession in a far-off land. Destination weddings are on the rise, with researchers at TheKnot.com reporting that roughly one in four couples who tied the knot in 2011 chose to have a destination wedding.

Destination weddings may appear to be an ideal way to tie the knot, but couples should know that planning such a ceremony may be even more difficult than planning a more traditional affair. Couples who choose to have a destination wedding must be ready to put a significant amount of faith in a wedding planner, who is often affiliated with the resort where the couple will be staying. Though the wedding planner may handle many of the details concerning the ceremony and the reception, couples should know that some of that planning will still fall on their shoulders as well. That planning may not be so simple, so before couples spread the word about their island wedding, it’s best to consider a few factors to determine if a destination wedding is truly the best way to go. * Guests: How many guests a couple hopes to invite is a great starting point when determining if a destination wedding is for you. Many couples who choose to have a destination wedding do so because they prefer a more intimate ceremony.

Destination weddings are obviously more expen-

sive for guests than a more traditional ceremony, so many guests won’t be able to afford to attend.

Couples who intend to invite many guests might want to avoid a destination wedding. * Locale: The destination for your destination wedding should be a locale that holds a special place in your heart. A random location that you find on the Internet might work out, but having some prior experience with the destination can help you anticipate minor, yet potentially problematic, issues.

These issues can include the accessibility of the airport, currency exchange rate and the weather.

In addition, you can help guests have a better time on their trips if you have already familiarized yourself with the locale. If you haven’t traveled much as a couple and don’t have a particular place in mind, then you might find a destination wedding is more hassle than it’s worth. * Accessibility: A common problem many couples encounter when planning a destination wedding is the accessibility of their chosen locale. Couples will likely have to visit the destination at least once prior to their wedding, which will eat up some of your wedding budget and your vacation time (which you will need to save for the actual wedding and your honeymoon). If the locale is a remote island that’s not very accessible, that can make these pre-wedding trips pretty stressful.

Accessibility should also be a consideration for

your guests. How far will your guests have to travel? How much money will guests have to spend on airfare and hotel accommodations? The less accessible the locale is, the more you and your guests are going to have to spend.

Accessibility of the airport is another consideration.

Some island locales and resorts are known for their remoteness, which can be a problem for wedding guests. If the resort is a long ride away from the airport, that’s another expense for guests. The resort may provide a shuttle service, but that cost will fall on the couple and the shuttle may not run frequently, which can prove problematic when guests’ arrivals are staggered. * Legality: The law is another thing couples must consider when deciding if a destination wedding is for them. Laws vary depending on the locale, so before you commit to a specific locale, make sure you’re legally allowed to get married there and if there are any hurdles you must clear before you can. Those hurdles might be significant, and couples may find they’re not worth the hassle.

Destination weddings are on the rise, but couples must consider a host of factors to ensure a destination wedding is truly for them.

Brides & Bouquets

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Share Your

Love Story In 2013, love stories live online.

Just think about the moment a couple gets engaged. One in 10 just-engaged women update their relationship status on Facebook within minutes of saying yes; onethird will update their status with in

a few hours; and another quarter will update their status by the next day.

The numbers come from a first-ever SocialWedding Survey put together by The Knot and Mashable.com. The survey also showed that brides are embracing new digital habits — tightly, we might add. Across the board, most brides are keeping up on wedding websites and blogs, becoming a fan of wedding brands and following them on their social networks, and relying on wedding-planning apps to help them architect their special day.

reading this on ink and paper, right?

Keep reading, and we’ll show you how to make the most of the online tools you’re already using to help plan your wedding. Half of brides connect with their vendors on Facebook, and one in five are share their Pinterest boards with their vendors. The key isn’t to try to replicate the most-liked or –pinned trends, though. It’s about taking those inspirations and tweaking them so they’re uniquely your own.

First things first, though, we invite you to share your love story with us in print or online.

Of course, a majority (78 percent) of brides still rely on print magazines for inspiration — you’re

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Brides & Bouquets

additional forms available for download at www.aug

Available online at Augustabrides.com

The Engagement Announcement

The Engagement Announcement Please type or print all information. Spelling and legibility are the responsibility of the person submitting the announcement. Information may be edited due to space constraints. Supply only the information you want published in The Augusta Chronicle. For additional information, please contact the Celebrations Coordinator at 706-828-3844.

The Couple Bride-elect’s full name Groom-elect’s full name

The Engagement Announcement Person(s) announcing engagement of (city, state)

are pleased to announce the engagement of

(circle what applies) their/his/her son/daughter to (groom/bride-to-be) son/daughter of of (city, state)

. The wedding is planned for (day, date, time) (location)

(city, state)

.

The Bride-to-Be Bride-elect’s maternal grandparents City, State Bride-elect’s paternal grandparents City, State Bride-elect’s educational background Bride-elect’s employment information Employed by

Job title

The Groom-to-Be Groom-elect’s maternal grandparents City, State Groom-elect’s paternal grandparents City, State Groom-elect’s educational background Groom-elect’s employment information Employed by

Job title

Brides & Bouquets

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Available online at Augustabrides.com

Celebrations Authorization Form

Information Your Name Street Address

City

State

Daytime/Work Phone

Evening/Home Phone

Zip

Desired publication date (if received by deadline) Signature

s available for download at www.augustabrides.com

26

This form must be completed and signed before your special occasion announcement can be published. The information provided will serve as account information. The publisher reserves the right to revise, edit or reject any and all copy and photographs deemed unsuitable for publication.

Package (select one) Engagement:

A

 A-2

B

C

Wedding:

A

 A-2

B

C

Anniversary:

A

B

C

D

E

F

Payment Method  Cash/Check/Money Order Visa Mastercard American Express Discover Exp. Date PRINT cardholder’s name Cardholder’s signature It is a requirement that your proof your announcement prior to publication. If the announcement is not proofed, we will not be responsible for errors. Please list a fax number or e-mail address below, along with the name of the person who will receive the fax or e-mail.

Attention:

Fax/E-mail:

c/o Celebrations Department 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30903 Telephone: 706-828-3844

Brides & Bouquets

additional forms available for download at www.augu

Available online at Augustabrides.com

Celebration Packages

Price Table* Engagement Announcements Item

Description

Price

Package A Package A-2 Package B Pakcage C

No photo and 5” of copy 1/2 column x 1.5” photo and 5” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 5” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 7” of copy

$35 $65 $95 $130

Package A-2

Package A

Package B

Package C

Wedding Announcements Item

Description

Price

Package A Package A-2 Package B Pakcage C Package D Package E Package F

No photo and 5” of copy 1/2 column x 1.5” photo and 5” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 5” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 7” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 10” of copy 2 column x 4.5” photo and 5” of copy (2 col. x 2.5”) 2 column x 5” photo and 10” of copy (2 col. x 5”)

$35 $65 $95 $130 $150 $175 $210

Package A

Package A-2

Package B

Package C

Package D

Package E

Package F

Anniversary Announcements Item

Description

Price

Package A Package B Pakcage C

No photo and 5” of copy 1 column x 3” photo and 5” of copy (2) 1 column x 3” photos and 5” of copy

$35 $95 $110

Package A

Package B

*Prices include fees for posting announcement on augustabrides.com Brides & Bouquets

Package C

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30 Years of Exceptional Service to our Brides Alyne Amsale Bliss by Monique Lhuillier Christos HOB - Exclusive Design Justin Alexander Lula Kate Marisa Peter Langner We offer Bridal, Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride and Cocktail Wear

In Surrey Center 493 Highland Ave, Augusta, GA 30909

706.736.6500

House of the Bride 1485351