Style update Hued accents chic for this year’s bridal gown 21

Not child’s playKids in the wedding party 9

Tips for best men,

maids of honor

Toast of the town

29

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You and the love of your life have found each other and an exciting time in your life is beginning to unfold, a time when you proclaim your love and devotion for one another in the company of those most important to you.

As editor, I would like to welcome you to Eagle Newspapers’ new and improved Wedding Planner, which will run this month and next year. Throughout my career here at Eagle, I have been responsible for many of our special sections, but none have grabbed my imagination or enthusiasm the way our wedding supplements have. When I was married almost 11 years ago, I had the wedding of my dreams, but it took a lot of behind-the-scenes work and I had to pay attention to an unbelievable amount of little details.

The day of your wedding is one of the most important and special of your life, and the purpose of this guide is to help you prioritize your preparations for the big day. From the minister to the music, the dress to the first dance, there is a lot of ground to cover, and the decisions that need to be made can sometimes be overwhelming.

On page 7 of this booklet is a master checklist to follow when trying to take care of the many details involved in planning a wedding. Pivotal steps will be discussed in more detail on the following pages, and a form to guide you in announcing both your engagement and wedding are on pages 8 and 14 respectively.

Use this guide as a reference to help the planning process go smoothly, but remember to have fun as you are preparing to say “I do.” It’s important to enlist the help of friends and/or family in the process. In fact, having the help of those closest to you can make this exciting time even more special.

Congratulations!Jennifer Wingjwing@eagle

newsonline.com

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

ON ThE cOVER

Leann West poses after marrying Ryan West on Aug. 7, 2010, in Robert Wehle State Park in Henderson, N.Y.

Photo by Caitlyn bom PhotograPhy399-0722 Caitlynbom.Com

3 Star Tailoring .........................................9

All for the Love of Dancing.....................5

Baker Photo .............................................6

Bayshore ................................................22

Behind the Iron Gates ...........................31

Bella Bakery ...........................................10

Brae Loch Inn ........................................16

caitlyn Bom Photography .....................23

cakes and Other Goodies ....................21

cazenovia American Legion ................31

clarion Inn .............................................12

colosso’s ................................................12

cookie connection ............................... 15

Davis Florist ............................................15

Engagement Form ..................................8

Fireside Inn ..............................................5

Gaylord house ......................................12

Gene Gisson Photography ................... 12

hair to Dye For ......................................15

hank Parker Tents ...................................2

holiday Inn ............................................24

Johnson camera ...................................16

LaBella Baskets ......................................16

Looking Glass Boutique ........................18

MidLakes Navigation ............................18

Mohegan Manor ...................................18

Motives / Makeup Artist .......................24

Nobles Flowers ......................................18

Palace Theater .......................................19

Pomodoro, Too......................................19

Ramada Inn ...........................................20

Sarah and Aliona (Music) .....................18

Send Out cards .....................................21

Seneca Goldsmith .................................20

Sheraton University hotel .....................32

Spa on the River ....................................22

St. Agnes Florist .....................................18

Tassones Wine Garden .........................27

Textures hair Salon................................ 12

Thunder Island / The Oasis .................. 15

Timber Banks .........................................24

Travel Leaders / Wilcox Travel .................6

Travel Store .............................................22

Vernon Downs casino and hotel ........ 11

Vitullo’s Tux ............................................21

Water’s Edge ..........................................21

Wedding Form .......................................14

Whirlin’ Disc DJs ....................................27

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1the dateSetting

Now that you’ve made the decision to marry, people

will be asking you when the event will occur. Even if it is in the distant future, it’s a good idea to have a ready answer. Maybe “In 2012” might suit as a proper answer, but if you are planning on marrying less than two years from your engagement, you should probably get the ball rolling with a more specific answer. In order to determine when is best to hold your nuptials, ask yourself the following questions:

1.What season suits my vision for a wedding?2.Do I want an indoor or outdoor ceremony?3.Are any months definitely out?You and your betrothed can then narrow down a

date by discussing what day of the week you want to wed. Availability of the wedding venue, whether a church or other locale, can also be a factor in your decision.

4Pick your partyDeciding who will stand up for you

in your wedding can be stressful in and of itself. Many people may just assume you will want them to be included in your wedding party, but remember, it is your day, and any decisions you make from this point on should be based upon what you and your fiance want. Typically, you will want people who have been there for you in the past, and there is no hard or fast rule about who you can or cannot have in your bridal entourage.

2,3Reserve, reserveKey to planning

your wedding is the venue for both the ceremony and reception. It is SO important to make sure you reserve both sites as early as possible, especially if either location is a popular one that tends to book early. Make sure you have an alternate date in mind in case one or both of these venues are booked and that there may be a deposit required in order to reserve the space. See related story, page 19.

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*Scuba diving included for certified divers. All amenities and activities may vary by resort. Spa services additional. Free for concierge level guests or higher for stays of 6 nights or longer. Administrative and government fees apply for all other categories. Offer is subject to change. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts.

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5with flowersSay it

carnaTionscarnations possess a history that is deeply

filled with meaning, as it serves as one of the oldest cultivated flowers in the world. The ruffled appearance and extended blooming shelf life makes the carnation an attractive selection for wedding flowers. A bouquet of carnations holds the meaning of fascination, distinction, love, and is also associated with purity and luck.

gerbera DaisiesGerbera daisies (pictured above) are one

of the most popular flowers in the world, which portrays innocence, cheerfulness,

and purity. A host of colors are also associated with this type of daisy, including bright pink, white, brilliant yellows, and ruby red.

orcHiDsThe elegance of orchids makes this bloom

a popular choice in wedding flowers as their grace and beauty are often sought-after. The exotic nature of the orchid is also a crowd pleaser, as it portrays the meaning of being

Flowers are a traditional way to set the mood for any wedding. For many, the selection of flowers is decided

based on look and cost. But, besides just looking pretty, flowers have significant meanings. Roses have

many different meanings, depending upon color, but what about other typical bouquet blooms?

As you decide on the selections of flowers that may fit into your wedding theme and décor, why not take the time to learn about the meaning behind them?

See Flowers on page 20

7

w e D D i n g c H e c K l i s TafTer THe engagemenT

___1. Set the date

___2. Reserve church/wedding venue

___3. Book reception location or rental equipment (tents, tables, etc.)

___4. Pick your attendants/ushers/ring bearers/flower girls

aT leasT 9 monTHs prior___5. choose florist

___6. Book band or deejay

___7. Pick photogrpher/video tecnician

___8. Pick wedding day transportation (limo, carriage, etc.)

___9. choose rehearsal dinner location

___10. Book honeymoon and wedding night lodging

___11. Order bridal gown/veil/shoes

___12. Order bridesmaids’ gowns/shoes

___13. Order tuxes

aT leasT 6 monTHs prior___14. Select invitations

___15. Order wedding cake

___16. complete guest list

___17. create a gift registry

aT leasT 2 monTHs prior___18. Select wedding bands

___19. Meet with deejay/band to select music

___20. Purchase gifts for wedding party

___21. Send out invitations

___22. Make appointment at beauty salon

___23. Arrange lodging and transp- 3ortation for out-of-town guests

___24. Send engagement notice to Eagle Newspapers (see page 8)

aT leasT 1 monTH prior___25. Review menu/bar with caterer

___26. Follow-up fittings for bridal gown/bridesmaids gowns

___27. Re-confirm arrangments with:

florist

photographer/video tech

transportation company

wedding cake firm

deejay/band

rehearsal dinner venue

honeymoon reservations

aT leasT Two weeKs prior___28. Get marriage license

___29. confirm final number of guests

___30. Make reception seating chart

___31. Final bridal gown/bridesmaids dress fitting

weeK of weDDing___32. Get manicure/pedicure

___33. Pack for honeymoon/ wedding night

___34. Send wedding notice to Eagle Newspapers (see page 14)

8

e n g a g e m e n T f o r mTo announce your engagement, free of charge, simply email your announcement,

and photo if available, to jwing@eaglenewsonline.com, or complete the form below and mail to: 2501 James Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206.

Please indicate the newspapers in which you would like Eagle Newspapers to print your announcement::

___Baldwinsvillle Messenger ___cazenovia Republican ___Eagle Bulletin

___Eagle Observer ___Skaneateles Press ___Star Review

Bride’s full name and address _________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Bride’s and groom’s parents’ names and address(es) _______________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Bridegroom’s full name and address ____________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Location of wedding ________________________________________________________________

Bride’s education, employment ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Bridegroom’s education, employment __________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Date (or season) of wedding __________________________________________________________

Additional information (optional) _______________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Name and phone number of person submitting form ______________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Email your announcement quickly and easily to jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

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A wedding is a joyous event that couples want to share with as many people as possible. couples commonly ask family and friends to take part in the ceremony as ushers, bridesmaids or readers. Before enlisting the help of a child to fill such roles, couples should carefully consider whether a youngster is capable of participating in the wedding ceremony or if he or she may not be up to the task.

Millions of people tuned into the British Royal wedding in April. Among the participants were six young children. The hon. Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Miss Eliza Lopes, Miss Grace van cutsem, Lady Louise Windsor, Master Tom Pettifer, and Master William Lowther-Pinkerton were bridesmaids and pages in attendance. The children were as young as three years old and as old as 10. Although the Duke and Duchess of cambridge were confident enough in the kids’ maturity to include them, reportedly some measures were taken to keep the tots in line. For instance, Prince henry reportedly delighted little Eliza Lopes with a pink “wiggly worm” so she wouldn’t be frightened by the crowds. Said wiggly worm actually made it into the official group bridal photo, being clutched by Miss Lopes.

couples worrying about all the little details of their own weddings may not want to fret about kiddie meltdowns or the bloopers that can occur when kids act like kids. Each child’s personal maturity level should be considered before enlisting their help. Other strategies:

* Young children serving as flower girls or ring bearers should be able to walk down the aisle without coaxing. If they cannot handle this task, then they should not be asked to take part in the wedding.

* Should children prove competent to walk down the aisle unattended, couples can have them then make their way to the seats next to their parents, rather than awkwardly standing with the rest of the bridal party for the ceremony.

* A minimum age requirement for wedding participants might be a good idea. A child age 5 or up may be able to appreciate the importance of the event.

* consult with the pastor or officiant of the ceremony. The ceremony location may have rules governing children in the

ceremony.*All people who have participated in the ceremony

will be invited to the reception. If couples decide to have a kids-free party, then reconsider children in the ceremony.

* Think about another role for a young child that will not disrupt the proceedings. Perhaps he or she can help hand out birdseed or small bottles of bubbles to use when the couple has finished their vows.

couples who choose to have children participate in the ceremony have to realize that there is the potential for slip-ups. Keeping an open mind and some patience can make for some memorable moments and a little humor as well.

Not child’s playHaving kids in the wedding party requires patience, an open mind

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Three years ago I was married to a wonder-ful man in Jamaica. There were so many special details of that day that I swore I would remember forever. The truth of the matter is with every year I remember less and less of the details. Old age is a real bummer! Every year on our anniversary I force my husband to go through our wedding album, and recall all those funny stories or special moments we shared on our special day.

hiring a good photographer is critical for ensur-ing your pictures are meaningful on your anniversa-ries. A photographers ability to capture good quality images is just one element for having those special images, and the other is all about the Bride and Groom. here are just a few things you can do to ensure your pictures have special meaning for years to come: Tip 1: have engagement pictures taken

Engagement sessions have grown in their popu-larity over the past few years. Some couples use the images to have gorgeous pictures scattered around the ceremony, while others use the images to create custom save the date cards that can truly make your

wedding standout from the rest. A new trend in weddings are coffee table guest books that are filled with pictures of the bride and groom with areas for your guest to leave you their well wishes.

By doing an engagement session beforehand, it also gives you a chance to work with your photogra-pher before your big day. These sessions are more relaxed and they allow the photographer to get to know you better. The more your photographer can become a good friend, the more you will relax around them which always leads to better pictures. Tip 2: Meet Your Groom Before the ceremony

This is a mood point for most couples. Some want to wait till the ceremony to see each other for the first time; while others prefer for a more intimate moment just between the two of them.

As a photographer I certainly honor the wishes of my clients; however I have witnessed some truly ro-mantic moments between a bride and groom when they first catch a glimpse of each other and no one

By Cyndi Farrare, cyndi farRare Images, cyndifarrareimages.com

Meaningful wedding photos:5 things every bride should know

See Photos on page 25

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9rehearsalThe The rehearsal dinner,

which is typically held the night before the wedding, follows a run-through of the ceremony at the church. Traditionally, this is paid for by the groom’s family, so it is a good idea to allow them to be in on the planning. It also makes sense to have the dinner at a venue that is not too far away from

the church, for ease of travel.

Keep in mind your future in-laws’

tastes and budget when planning this event, and you will reap the rewards of getting off on the right foot.

6-8Details, details

s Ta r T o f f o n T H e r i g H T n oT eMusic for the ceremony can include vocals or be purely instrumental;

generally for a church wedding there is a divine meaning behind the music. The Wedding March is, of course, most popular, but feel free to veer a bit from the norm, especially if your ceremony is a bit non-traditional.

The reception is typically a time to let loose and celebrate, with up-tempo crowdpleasers such as “We Are Family” by the Pointer Sisters and “The Electric Slide” by Marcia Griffiths. Make sure to throw in a few, slower songs for the lovebirds out there (and those who can’t keep up with the beat of the fast songs.)

m a K e m e m o r i e s l a s Thaving a good photographer and

videographer allow you to relax and enjoy your day without worrying about it being captured for posterity. Tip: Sometimes one firm can offer both services, saving you money.

s T r e T c H o r s T e e D ?Make sure to book your limo or horse-

drawn carriage for your nuptials as early as possible. Although it may seem like a detail that can be taken care of later, if you want to rent wheels customized to your taste (for instance, a white, as opposed to black, limousine) you might be in a losing battle if you wait too long.

Make sure to have plenty of wine or sparkling grape juice on hand for the numerous toasts that tend to be given during the course of the rehearsal dinner.

q u i c K T i p

wifecouples often focus on

personalizing their weddings while neglecting to make their honeymoon uniquely theirs. Are you a formal sophisticate, a laid-back casual, or a romantic escapist? Travel expert Bob Boles of hotelbook.com says the key to a happy honeymoon, besides the companion choice, is to identify your travel style and match your destination accordingly.

“The Internet has provided us with the most useful travel tool available,” Boles says. “couples are now empowered to do their own

research on destinations, local events, restaurants, and hotels with the click of a button.”

Dedicated to offering couples more alternatives, Boles and his travel team have identified independent and boutique hotels worldwide at www.hotelbook.com for travelers to more easily find the right hotels for their post-nuptial escapes. Drawing from Modern Bride’s

10The honeymoon

See Honeymoon on page 16

14

w e D D i n g f o r mTo announce your wedding, free of charge, simply email your announcement, and

photo if available, to jwing@eaglenewsonline.com, or complete the form below and mail to: 2501 James Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206.

Please indicate the newspapers in which you would like Eagle Newspapers to print your announcement::

___Baldwinsvillle Messenger ___cazenovia Republican ___Eagle Bulletin

___Eagle Observer ___Skaneateles Press ___Star Review

Wedding date _____________________________________________________________________

Bride’s full name and address _________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Bridegroom’s full name and address ____________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Location of wedding ________________________________________________________________

ceremony performed by _____________________________________________________________

Bride given in marriage by____________________________________________________________

Maid (matron) of honor and relation to bride _____________________________________________

Bridesmaids and relation to bride ______________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Flower girl/ring bearer _______________________________________________________________

Best man and relation to groom________________________________________________________

Ushers and relation to groom__________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

honeymoon location________________________________________________________________

Bride’s education, employment________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Bridegroom’s education, employment __________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Additional information_______________________________________________________________

Future residence____________________________________________________________________

Name and phone number of person submitting form ______________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Email your announcement quickly and easily to jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

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list of top honeymoon travel destinations, Boles suggests the following hotels for discriminating couples:

✓ Bermuda's Waterloo house is an elegant five-star destination with 29 luxurious bedrooms, a manor house and surrounding cottages dating back to 1815, amid four acres of terraced gardens by the infamous hamilton harbour.

✓ Miami Beach's hotel Ocean is a luxury boutique with 27 Mediterranean-themed rooms appointed with original decor and fireplaces. The hotel offers VIP access to trendy nightclubs, restaurants, and a private jet for daytrips to a remote island.

✓ Also on Ocean Drive, Miami Beach's The Bentley hotel is a five-star, all-suite hotel with art deco architecture and 53 designer suites. It has an incredible view of the Atlantic from a spacious rooftop sundeck complete with pool and jacuzzi.

✓ Maui's Prince hotel Makena Resort is a five-star hotel secluded on a quarter-mile of crescent-shaped Maluaka Beach, and built around an Asian meditation garden. Rooms open to the garden and the ocean, and guests have access to the Makena North Golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.

✓ On the Big Island of hawaii, the 1800-acre

Mauna Kea Beach hotel, is a five-star destination on Kauna'oa Bay, considered by many to be the island's most beautiful beach. Besides the white sands and shimmering waters, this hotel also offers access to Golf Digest's No. 1-rated golf course in hawaii, the Mauna Kea Golf course.

✓ The caves in Negril, Jamaica, is an all-inclusive property with vibrant roomy cottages built above natural volcanic caves overlooking the ocean. complete with a saltwater pool, sauna, hot tub and Jacuzzi, the hotel's 10 handcrafted cottages are set in a garden on the edge of the sea.

✓ Across the Atlantic in Rome, the Boscolo Exedra hotel is a five-star white marble palazzo from the 19th century overlooking Michelangelo's Basilica Degli Angeli and situated for discovering the city. The hotel features two exclusive restaurants, a wine bar and champagnerie, as well as a rooftop terrace with pool offering a stunning view of the city.

✓ Another option for Italian travelers is the carlton and Grand canal hotel in Venice, where 145 rooms in 18th century Venetian style offer a splendid view of the canal Grande and the hotel's traditional courtyard.

Boles encourages couples to educate themselves before settling on a destination.

H o n e y m o o n from page 13

17

11-13finery

Wedding The gown1. Set your budget,

and stick to it. Prices of wedding gowns can fluctuate wildly, and there are many choices out there, so establishing your price range early will avoid a lot of stress.

2. Decide the basic style, including length of dress, type of fabric(s), neckline, whether you are interested in beading and/or lace embellishments and whether to go strapless in order to narrow the field of dresses further. Keep in mind the theme of the wedding and whether you are interested in the more traditional gown or something out-of-the-ordinary. You also should consider color of fabric, even if you are going with the traditional white. There are many shades of white, from a deep creams to a true, snowy hue.

3. Give yourself time to choose. If you feel rushed, you may pick a dress out of convenience and not because you truly love it.

4. Keep the season in mind. For example, with a winter wedding, perhaps something a bit heavier than a strapless gossamer dress would suit.

5. Make sure to choose a veil that accents the gown without dominating it. Veils come in many lengths, from shoulder, to fingertip to floor-length. Some brides opt instead to place fresh flowers or glittery combs in their hair.

6. Don’t forget the accessories – from shoes to jewelry, you should make sure it all works with the dress you have chosen.

The tux1. You don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb, so go

with the theme and style of the wedding, while adding a bit of personal flair, such as cuff links or studs.

2. Be season-appropriate. If it’s a cold-weather ceremony, go for heavier fabrics. In warmer climes, a lighter-weight fabric that will breath is more appropriate.

3. Get a proper fit. Make sure to order the tux early, leaving plenty of time for a fitting a few weeks before the big day in case alterations are in order.

4. Keep it polished. You’re in a nice tux or wedding suit, so don’t draw attention to your feet by wearing unshined shoes. hint: if the shoes are new, wear them a bit prior to break them in, avoiding painful feet during the big day.

See Finery on page 31

14You’re invited...Once you’ve set the date, you

can start looking at invitations for the event - your local stationary store should have sample books to leaf through or, if you are crafty, hit area craft stores for specialty paper and other details such as ribbon and stamp supplies to make your own invitations.

Although many times you are able to save money by doing them on your own, remember that the added stress and time to make the invitations may not be worth the few dollars saved.

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Engaged couples must make assorted important decisions with regards to their wedding day. For some, the process of planning a wedding can be overwhelming, while others revel in each and every decision.

Among the many decisions couples must make is which venue to use for their reception. The wedding reception venue is where most of the day will be spent, and where the majority of the people will do their mingling. When looking for a wedding venue, there are a number factors to take into consideration.

The AccommodationsThe facility itself should be able to accommodate the

wedding size. Some weddings are grandiose events with large guests lists, while others are more understated and intimate, with only a small number of family and friends in attendance. couples should know which type of wedding they will be having, and should have at least an estimate figure in mind of the number of guests before visiting any facilities. Once that estimate has been made, look for a facility that can comfortably accommodate

See Reception on page 27

Venue veracity What to look for in a reception locale

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special and showcases the bride as a rare and delicate beauty.

irisesThe history of the iris can be traced back

to Greek mythology and although they are often highlighted for their deep blue color, they also provide a wide range of additional shades. The overall meaning behind irises involves wisdom, courage, hope and faith. Different shades of irises have meanings, such as the yellow variety, which stands for passion.

sTargazer liliesWhen choosing Stargazer lilies, you will

highlight a sense of youthfulness and beauty, as these fragrant blooms showcase wealth, prosperity, and purity.

TulipsIt is said that this highly historic flower is one

that allows couples to truly express a “perfect love.” Red tulips signify “true love,” while the purple variety adds a hint of regality. Yellow

tulips are known to express cheerfulness and happiness.

peruvian liliesThe Peruvian lily is known for its flirtatious

appearance and demeanor. This particular bloom can be found in vibrant shades of yellow, pink, and orange. While the main meaning behind the bloom is friendship and devotion, they also highlight playfulness and serve as a popular attention-getter.

sunflowersSunflowers are often known for their

boldness, energy, and bright colors, and are sometimes overlooked as a wedding flower because of its size. While some enjoy the attention-getting quality that this bloom possesses, there is no denying that sunflowers are one of the most “happiest looking” of flowers. The meaning behind this particular bloom includes loyalty and longevity, which makes perfect sense for the exchange of vows.

f l o w e r s from page 6

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Imagine sending out personalized, colorful e-vites inviting guests to a wedding ceremony and reception? Or plugging in an Mp3 player with a pre-set wedding music playlist to get people dancing? how about recording the festivities on handheld video cameras and uploading data instantly to a social networking site? Some or all of these technological conveniences are already growing in popularity, revolutionizing the way couples plan and carry through with wedding plans along the way.

Many couples are choosing to eschew the formalities and traditions associated with weddings for the convenience that many digital or technological advancements can provide. Electronic wedding invitations are just one of the many aspects of the wedding that have

begun to embrace the digital age.There are several advantages

to enlisting the help of technology to execute a wedding. First and foremost is the cost factor. The number of items that couples can do themselves will greatly cut down on the expenses of hiring professional vendors. Budget-conscious couples may seriously want to consider sending e-vites, which can save several hundreds of dollars on printing costs and postage.

Another advantage is that technology might be more environmentally responsible. Eliminating wedding stationery or hiring individuals who have to travel to and from the ceremony and reception, as is the case with a band or photographer, reduces carbon emissions and further energy.

?Hi-tech vows Technology may transform the future of weddings

See Teachnology on page 24

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Technology can also help keep things organized. Instead of keeping receipts and papers inside of a folder, saving items in e-mail and conversing with vendors electronically creates a digital paper trail that can make loose ends a little easier to manage.

Although there are some detractors who frown on employing technology when planning a wedding because of the improper etiquette implications, many modern couples are embracing the convenience and cost savings these technologies provide.

T e c H n o l o g y from page 21

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else is around. During this time I take on more of a documentary style of photography and shoot from a vantage point where the bride and groom forget I’m even there. These can be some of the most romantic images a photographer can get and ones most couples truly cherish.

In addition to creating roman-tic images meeting your groom before the ceremony reduces the amount of time you’ll need for pictures after the ceremony. If your groom is anything like mine was, he may want to go straight to the reception and party with your guests. haven taken many of your pictures before hand, you can have those large group family pictures taken and then head straight into the party. Tip 3: Make a list of people you want a picture with

I have had several friends ea-gerly await the pictures from their special day; only to look through them and then realize they never got a picture with their favorite Aunt. This disappointment can be easily avoided by creating a list of all individu-als you want a picture with.

Be sure to give this list ahead of time to your photographer. I also suggest having one of your bridesmaids on hand to assist the photographer in recognizing the people on the list. This may be obvious to some, but be sure that this bridesmaid knows most of the individuals on the list. It helps to have someone who can easily spot individuals in a crowd. Side note: I also tell my brides to inform their families to stay after the ceremony for pictures, so they know ahead of time not to run off into the reception.

Tip 4: Outdoor weddings create the best lighting for your pictures

Do you want to know the secret for capturing sharp beautiful images? Lighting, lighting, lighting! I love when my brides tell me they are having an

outdoor wedding, because the light for outdoor weddings is just amazing! If you want that warm whimsical look to your pictures, have your wedding about 2 hours before sunset. Early evening weddings cast the warm light that create romantic scenes for amazing pictures.Tip 5: Make it personal

Some of the best wedding pictures are ones that can tell a story of the couple. Are you and your groom a little on the funky side? Take a picture of you in hot pink heels with your groom wearing funky socks. Was your

first date at the movies? Ask your photographer to do a series of pictures with movie popcorn or a clap-perboard. There is a ton of stuff that can be done if you let your imagination go! So think of things that make you unique as a couple and share it with your photographer! The more you can share with your photographer, the more they can think of creative ways to capture images that will be meaningful.

Finally, be sure to do your homework and choose a photographer that meets not just your budget but also your personality and style. Re-member these pictures will spark memories of your special day for many years to come, so be sure you find someone that can capture the day exactly how you would see it. Best of luck!

p H o T o s from page 10

Sometimes the devil is in the details, and the little things can get lost during the planning process. The following is a list of some of the small items that can help make your day complete:

3 Ring pillow/petal basket for the ring bearer or flower girl.

Nothing is cuter than a couple of children making their way down the aisle, and sometimes the added comic relief can be a tension breaker if nerves are getting to the wedding party.

3 Jewelry for the bridesmaids. Getting the wed-ding party matching earrings and/or necklaces can add extra sparkle to their dresses and give them a keepsake to remember the special day.

3 Pew bows and/or flowers for the church. 3 The garter. Many times the garter can also

be the “something blue” for the bride.3 A throw-away bouquet. Many times the

bride’s bouquet is too large or elaborate for the traditional toss, and a “stunt bouquet” is called into play.

3 An envelope box. This is a discreet way to keep all of the gift envelopes in one place.

3 Toasting goblets. Such a simple gift to the couple, they sometimes get lost in the shuffle.

3 Sign-in book. This can be kept as a memento of the day.

Don’t forget details that add a personal touchetc.

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Almost as long as there have been bridal gowns, white or ivory have been the colors of choice for first-time brides. These light hues represent the purity and innocence of the bride. Although a few brides-to-be choose to forego wedding white for something a bit more flashy -- like pink or yellow gowns -- a popular trend today is to wear gowns with accents of black or other deep colors to add dimension to the white canvas.

considering the groom and groomsmen will be dressed in black tuxedos, black accents on a wedding gown have been growing in popularity and add a formal, regal look to a wedding. Darker color embellishments can add drama to a gown. Another advantage is they can call out pattern or adornments not easily seen on a white-on-white gown. Furthermore, deep colors against the white backdrop of the gown show well in photography, particularly the black-and-white journalistic style that is very trendy as well.

Women shopping for bridal gowns who are considering colored accents should be careful that these embellishments are subtle and do not overwhelm the gown -- or the person who will be wearing it! Popular enhancements include appliques on the bodice or the train of the gown. Another idea is to select a white gown and then tie a black bow or sash around the waist or put a lace shrug over bare shoulders. Black-and-white lace gloves are also an option for those who want to add just a little splash of dimension.

The same concept can be applied to any accent color. Burgundy or plum colors also work well to add the contrast of dark against light and aren’t as extreme as black. Some brides can also opt for a paler, more pastel shade to serve as an accompaniment to the white gown. Many times the accent colors chosen are replicated in the hue of the bridesmaids’ gowns, so the entire wedding party looks cohesive.

Because the spectacle will be the beauty of the gown, it’s best to carry a neutral-colored bouquet in a small size. Or, a black-and-white gown can be accented with a small nosegay of red flowers or roses.

Dress trend: COLORColorful accents chic for this year’s bridal gown

consider black stitching in the appliques of a gown for some drama. Many gowns come with colorful accents or they can be added later by a talented seamstress.

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that number of people, and ideally find one that has a done so in the past. couples won’t want a facility where everyone is crammed together, nor will they want one where a relatively small number of guests are in a large ballroom with lots of empty space.

More minor details regarding the facility must also be considered. Ask if the facility is handicapped accessible. If the wedding is in the warmer months, make sure the venue is air conditioned. Since most weddings have a break in between the ceremony and the reception, ask if the facility has a room in which the bride and groom can freshen up before the reception begins.

The Datecouples may choose the date of their wedding

based on the availability of a church they attend or a specific wedding officiant they want to perform their ceremony. Once that date has been chosen, it’s time to look for a reception venue. couples who have a specific venue in mind might want to ask about the venue’s availability before settling on a wedding date. When seeking out a reception venue, ask if the venue has any other events scheduled for that day. Some couples prefer to have the facility all to themselves and their guests.

The LocationThe facility’s location should be a priority. couples

won’t want their guests to have to drive too far from the wedding ceremony to the reception venue or from the reception venue back to the hotel. Since many wedding guests come from out of town, they likely won’t know the area well and could get lost if the facility is too far away from their hotel. Keep things simple by finding a reception venue that’s close to the hotel or hotels where guests will be staying.

The hourscouples who want their receptions to last into the

wee hours should inquire about the facility’s hourly rate. A typical reception lasts five or six hours. If couples want to go beyond that, they might have to pay an hourly rate. Ask if the facility charges an hourly rate or if the venue can simply be rented for as long as the party keeps going.

The PriceMany facilities offer a flat rate to rent the venue.

When discussing the rate, be sure to ask what’s included. Will food, flowers, venue decor, and even staff tips be included in the rental fee? If not, is there room for negotiation? When facilities expand the services they include in their rental fee, that can save couples substantial amounts of money.

r e c e p T i o n from page 19

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15cake Take theChoosing the confection of your dreams

Whether traditional or contemporary, the wedding cake can serve as a stunning centerpiece to any reception.

There are many different designs, types, colors and shapes of wedding cakes to choose from. The best way to choose what you like is to look through books and magazines and then look at pictures of your cake maker’s work. Word of mouth is still the best way to find the best wedding cake supplier and decorator in your area. Ask your friends, relatives and associates for recommendations.

Even with a good word of mouth referral it is not a bad idea to shop around since the wedding cake will be one of the focal points of your wedding reception decor and since the cost can vary greatly from one cake decorator to another.

Although your wedding caterer may want to provide the wedding cake as part of their catering package, you may be able to save a significant amount of money by having the wedding cake provided by someone else who actually specializes in wedding cakes and wedding cake decorating since some (not all) caterers use outside suppliers for wedding cakes anyway and then mark up the price.

here are some factors to consider: cake flavor selection

White cake is the “traditional” selection. however, the current trend is to select the flavor of wedding cake that you like. Anything from chocolate to carrot cake is acceptable. It is not a bad idea to actually taste the cake/frosting combination before ordering a flavored wedding cake though...Size vs. proportion

Since there are a number of options available when it comes to shapes and sizes of wedding cakes, your cake supplier will be able to assist you in determining the required wedding cake sizes depending upon whether you are serving round or sheet cakes.

Frosting There are three

main types of frostings used in wedding cake decorating,

bu t te rc ream, whipped cream and fondant. Buttercream is the most p o p u l a r because it is easy to work with, is very adaptable to a number of applications and it will

hold up well to temperature and humidity variations. Whipped cream frostings require refrigeration and do not hold up well to heat and high humidity. Fondant creates a very smooth and elegant wedding cake covering but it is less sweet and more dense than the other frostings types which have lighter, whipped textures.

Be sure to tell your wedding cake decorator about the temperature and humidity conditions of your wedding reception location, i.e. in a tent with potentially high summer temperatures, so they can determine if a stabilizer will be required to ensure that the frosting will not run.color and decorations

Select colors that will compliment your wedding color theme. Also, keep in mind that due to varying lighting, temperature and humidity conditions the frosting colors may change after on the cake. For example, purple buttercream frosting may turn blue when exposed to a high level of Ultraviolet light like sunlight. Be sure to talk to your wedding cake decorator about the conditions that may affect the frosting.

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Wedding days are typically steeped in tradition. Whether it’s the hours before the wedding or the bride’s attire or the first dance, it seems no aspect of a couple’s big day isn’t accompanied by some ages-old tradition.

One of the more enjoyable wedding day traditions is the toast. Once the reception has begun, the maid of honor and the best man are trusted to toast the new bride and groom. Such toasts are typically heartfelt and humorous, but there are also a few guidelines to follow to ensure the toast is memorable for all the right reasons.

* Stand up! Stand up when delivering a wedding toast. Sitting down won’t command the guests’ attention, and your voice likely won’t carry as well if you’re sitting down.

* Don’t go too long. A good wedding toast shouldn’t stretch beyond five minutes. Long-winded toasts could come off as rambling and incoherent, and the guests will likely tune out if the toast goes longer than five minutes.

* Introduce yourself. Just because you’re a maid of honor or a best man doesn’t mean all of the guests know your relationship with the bride or groom. Make it brief, but provide an explanation of your relationship.

* Keep the toast appropriate. Many adults who have been to a wedding or two in their day have a story about a wedding toast gone awry. While these stories are humorous, no best man or maid of honor wants to have similar stories told about his or her toasts. Make the toast appropriate, keeping in mind there might be some younger guests in attendance. In addition, avoid references to past relationships. Such references are awkward and uncomfortable.

* Don’t make it an “inside” joke. Maids of honor or best men are typically close friends or siblings of the bride and groom. Such a close relationship makes it easy

to tell an inside joke only a few guests will understand. Avoid such inside jokes, as one of the goals of the toast should be to illustrate your love and appreciation of the bride or groom in a way all guests can understand.

* Make it personal. A personal anecdote is a nice touch. Such anecdotes can be about anything, whether it’s the first time you met your friend’s now-spouse or, if you’re not related to the bride or groom, how you met.

* Steer clear of the bar before the toast. Many a well-intentioned wedding toast has gone horribly wrong thanks to alcohol. Maids of honor and best men should abstain from alcohol before their toasts to avoid embarrassing themselves and the bride and groom. If you’re especially nervous, maybe a drink can help calm your nerves. But if you’re going to drink before the toast, be sure to drink only in moderation.

* Practice beforehand. Very few people can survive “winging” a wedding toast. Practice the toast beforehand so you’re comfortable with what you’re going to say before the moment arrives.

* Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Weddings are typically laid back and fun affairs, so don’t stress about giving the perfect toast. If the toast comes off as genuine and stays appropriate, it’s a good toast.

of theToastTownTips for best men and maids

of honor

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Weddings are one of the many milestones in life that are marked with celebrations both religious and festive. Following are some facts and figures related to the sacrament of marriage.

Getting married? You’re one in two millionAccording to the United States census Bureau, more than 2 million couples get married each year in the

United States. The average bride is a shade over 25 years of age, while the average groom is nearly 27.

Wedding reduxIn a nod to the changing nature of society, one-third of those getting married each year have been

married before. That’s especially notable to those who make a living providing wedding services, be it reception halls, videographers, photographers, or others who make their living in the wedding industry. That’s because the average wedding budget is roughly $20,000, meaning weddings, even for brides and grooms who have been down the aisle before, remain a costly expense for the participants and a lucrative venture for those in the industry.

Weddings are big businessIn fact, $72 billion is spent on weddings each year. To put that in

better perspective, consider that only $8 billion per year is spent on honeymoons, meaning brides and grooms are liable to spend nine times more on their wedding than they are on their honeymoon.

Fall is catching onJune and August remain the months of choice for ceremonies,

as more weddings occur in June and August than any other month. however, while July is

the third most popular month to walk down the aisle, September and even October are becoming increasingly popular according to the Association

for Wedding Professionals International.

There are guidelines, if you want themPersonal style and preference aren’t the only things that dictate

certain wedding day decisions. A host of style guidelines exist to help brides and grooms make the right choices on their big day.

For example, when it comes to the tuxedo, a morning ceremony typically calls for a cutaway, or morning coat, with the ushers

in matching strollers. For early afternoon ceremonies, however, it’s typical for men in the wedding party to

wear tuxedos without tails. Grooms who really want to wear tails should only do so for ceremonies that

begin after 4 p.m., as tails are considered too formal for ceremonies beginning earlier in

the day. When wearing tails, a white vest and bow tie, but no cumberbund,

is the traditional style. These are typical rules, but the ultimate

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The bridesmaid’s gown1. Use your theme, colors as a guide. Find a style, fabric

and shade that complements the style of your wedding.2. Make flattering choices. If your bridesmaids have

different body types choose a dress that is flattering to all and keep in mind complexion and hair color when choosing your colors.

3. Take the girls with you when you choose. This way they can try the dresses on and you can decide whether or not they meet your expectations.

4. Shop early, as there should be at least one

additional fitting before the big day. This will eliminate any last-minute panic when a dress doesn’t fit. Also, if you are having shoes dyed to match, you want to leave some leeway in case the color doesn’t come out the way you thought it would.

The usher’s tux1. have the color complement the groom’s tux.

Little details like a different shade of bow tie, cravat or vest can set them apart from your groom.

2. Keep it in style with the bridesmaids’ attire. You don’t want to have the girls in glamorous gowns and the men in less-formal gear or vice versa.

3. Again, shop early.

f i n e r y from page 17

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