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PERFECT WEDDING

MANCHESTER NEWSPAPERS' | 2012

Everyday Flowers

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Planning Made EasyCongratulations! You and the person of your dreams are embarking on a new life together, and we couldnt be happier for you. Its time to create a day that you and your loved ones will never forget. And one thats completely stress-free!Sound impossible? Hardly! Just let our 2012 Bridal Planner be your guide. Well guide you through all the moments of the big day, from the fashion frenzy in the morning, all the details of the ceremony, through the drinks and entertainment to keep you and your guests partying into the night. Our experts tips for keeping it stress-free will show you how to make the most of your time, energy and budget, all while keeping your sanity in check. Dive in. Follow our tips. Plan a wedding that your guests wont soon forget. Its never been easier to do.

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In This issue4 6 8 9 12 13 15 16 17 19 20 22 23 24 26 Budget Invites Fitness Fashion&Beauty Venue Flowers Photo&Video Rings Transportation Drinks Music Food Cake Honeymoon Secretstoalongmarriage

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BUDGET

Managing the MoneyA F T E R A C O U P L E of years of keeping the wedding clutch clutched tight, wedding spending actually climbed more than 20 percent in 2010, with the average cost right around $24,000, up from just below $20K the year before, according to The Wedding Report, the Tucson, Ariz.-based wedding market research company. A closer look at the numbers shows its not just frivolous spending, though. For example, grooms increased their spending on suits by nearly half over the previous year but thats a suit theyll own and wear again, not a tux theyll return to the store. Spending on reception dcor took a hit, while spend-

ing on reception food and bar service increased. The key to these examples: Being smart about how you deploy your budget, so you and your guests get the most out of what you spend.

Budget BasicsTo 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

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BUDGETWhen youve 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 weddings needs: Reception 50% Music 10% Flowers 10% Wedding Attire 10% Photo/Video 10% Stationery 5% Miscellaneous 5% guest list was one of the successful cost-cutting tactics employed by brides last year, as the average number of guests fell to 141 in 2010, down from 149 in 2009. With an average guest cost of $194, according to the same survey, thats saving more than $1,500. Of course, youre not going to pinch your way to the wedding of your dreams. The trick is to be judicious with where you do spend. Choose whats important to you and focus there. The rest will balance itself out.

INVITES

Paper ProductsW E L L B E F O R E T H E wedding, your save-the-date and invitation give your guests the first impressions of your big day. Heres how to set the write tone and carry it all the way through to your wedding-day stationery.

Saving Made SimpleOne of the simplest tricks to cut costs, of course, is to cut guests. According to the The Knot.coms 2010 Real Wedding Survey, trimming the

Save-the-DatesContrary to belief, the design

of the save-the-dates does not need to mesh perfectly with invitations to come later, says Candice Dowling Coppola, owner and creative director of Jubilee Events in Cheshire, Conn. Have fun with the save-the-dates, and then really develop the invitation over several months, she says.

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INVITESCoppola suggests couples be sure to use a fun picture of themselves and not be afraid take some risks with them. Since these can be sent out about a year in advance of the wedding, theres room for design change. People shouldnt feel like they're stuck with the same design, she adds.

TIME-SAVING TIPUnfortunately there is no quick and easy way to send out save the dates and invitations, Coppola says. But there are a few things that can be done to make the feat easier.

1. Remember to have your parcel weighed and measured. These pieces tend to run higher than the standard 44-cent stamp, Coppola says. 2. Dont send save-the-dates to everyone if your guest list is not finalized. Cutting the guest list is the easiest way to save money, but once something is sent out to a person that invitation cannot be taken back, says Coppola.

Invites

Invitations typically go out around two months before the wedding. Let your weddings location and theme dictate the design, and carry it through to all your stationery. You want your paper to ultimately be similar from invitation to wedding day, says Coppola. This means have a similar design for

tions go wild, Coppola says.

invites, programs, menus and even table place cards and the postwedding thank-you cards, too. But dont fall into the trap of making it predictable by using the exact same design for everything. Add minor but noticeable changes. Be inspired by the paper of the invitation, she says. Dont be afraid to step outside of the box with your invitations, too. Invitations can burst in color, be three-dimensional, have ribbon or fabric wraps, or even be hand sewn. People can really let their imagina-

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FITNESS

Work Out: Relieve Stress Dont Add to ItA WEDDING-DAY WORKOUT can be the best idea ever. Or the worst. A morning workout in step with your regular exercise routine, such as yoga or a 3-mile run, can give you some normalcy and relieve stress on your wedding day, says Lisbeth Levine, co-author of The Wedding Book: The Big Book for Your Big Day (Workman, 2008). It can both energize and calm you. But if you dont regularly work out and are simply trying to sweat off a few extra calories before the ceremony, nows not the time to start, Levine notes. Exercise during your engagement period is a different story. Its a great time in your life to make some positive changes, says Christi Masi, chief exercise officer for The Healthy Bride, a Seattle-area company specializing in bridal bootcamps and personal training. Theres nothing quite so motivating as a wedding, she says.

Masi advises brides to realistically look rewards and working out with a buddy, at what they hope to lose and the numsuch as one of your bridesmaids, are good ber of weeks before the first dress fitting ways to keep a fitness plan moving. Hav not the wedding date. It takes a lot to ing other people around doing the same lose more than a pound or two a week, thing is extremely motivating, she says. she says. You have to change a lot of For brides in a pinch, Masi recombehaviors to make that mends burning calories quickly by workhappen. ing against Crunched on time? Work in some hidden Significant gravity, such calorie burners throughout the day.Get off change is possias by climbing ble but stairs and hills the train a stop early, take the stairs instead shouldnt or increasing of the elevator, or split up workouts instead of require an the treadmill scheduling a big block of time. Adding small unhealthy situaincline. movements throughout your day makes a diftion, Masi adds. Brides ference, Masi says. Wedding planshould conning is stressful tinue their fitenough exercise should ease stress, ness plan post-honeymoon. Weddings not add to it. change brides from couch potatoes to recreational athletes, Masi says. Focus on Motivation to Get Moving what comes next. Setting attainable milestones with

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TIME-SAVING TIP

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FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y

GlamorousTHE WEDDING DAY is most stressful right at thestart. Theres makeup to apply, hair to get done, and, most importantly, a dress to put on. But its easy to keep the panic to a minimum by following a few guidelines.

How toGeta

Look

Adrienne Pitkin, an Austin, Texas-based makeup artist, encourages her clients to arrive for their make-up appointments well hydrated, with clean skin and a good nights rest. So drink plenty of water in the days before the milestone event. To minimize stress, brides-to-be should complete most beauty rituals prior to the wedding day. That means scheduling facials, manicures, pedicures and eyebrow appointments within a week of the event. For nails, pick a polish that is subtle, like pale pink or beige, so in case you do nick your nails it wont be noticeable. Wash your hair the day prior, suggests Tara Fontana, owner of Fairytale Hair and Makeup in Southern Calif., because dirtier hair holds styles better. Another tool in your beauty arsenal is the wedding emergency kit, which should include the following: a small bottle of hairspray, a lipstick blotting powder to control any shine. Stash the above into your wedding clutch or purse. The wedding morning also is the time to nosh a bit to fuel you up for the big day when nerves may take over and sabotage your appetite. Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 9

FA S H I O N & B E A U T YDress To-DosWhen it comes to looking beyond good and staying calm, cool and collected on your wedding day, two words should sum up your smart and savvy approach to assembling your flawless look: Plan ahead. Most retailers suggest that brides begin their wedding dress shopping nine months before the big day. That may seem a lifetime away, but the extra cushion helps you navigate issues like dealing with ordering from overseas and managing alterations and potential fit issues. Its like ordering furniture, says Michele Martin, owner of M Bride in La Jolla, Calif. Its better to have some time than no time at all. Those extra days can help you fit in dress research, such as scouring the web and bridal magazines, to hone in on the best style for your personality, along with scheduling appointments at bridal boutiques. And, when time is on your side, you can save money by waiting for those coveted sample sales (typically geared to those size 8 and under) both offline and on, which can save more than 50 percent off retail prices, especially at luxury flash-sale sites, such as The Aisle New York.

TIME-SAVING TIPA newer makeup option that brides are embracing isairbrushed makeup, a lightweight approach with coverage that lasts longer and looks natural. Its a spray-on foundation using an airbrush gun that dots the face. Makeup professionals will blend it in for a smooth finish, set it with a dusting of powder, then apply the makeup. It translates beautifully into photography, says Pitkin, who charges an extra fee for the service. For acne-prone skin and clients with rosacea, she highly recommends it, even using it on the dcolletage, back and shoulders, especially for those with tattoos. If theyre wearing a strapless dress, brides usually dont want their tattoos to show, Pitkin says. Brides still want to look traditional on their wedding day.

Adding AccessoriesOnce the all-important dress is found, planning the rest of the wedding may seem easier because the gown can set the tone for everything from flowers to the reception.

Focus on accessories about four to five months before the wedding. Borrowing jewelry from family is one way to save money, check off the impor-

tant something borrowed portion of the wedding and incorporate something meaningful into your special day, says Michelle Hanson, owner

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FA S H I O N & B E A U T Yof Flutter Boutique, a Minneapolis bridal store. If your dress is ornate, stick to simple ornamentation, such as dainty drop earrings or an elegant bracelet. Brides also can save on the expense and rely on themselves and complimentary help from department store professionals. Kate Middleton did her own makeup for her engagement photos, darkly lining her eyes and opting for muted colors for her blush and lipstick. Mineral makeup may be all the rage as consumers seek less chemical-laden eyeshadows, blushes and lipsticks, but most artists prefer to use traditional makeup for the wedding day. It usually has more staying power and photographs better, makeup experts say. Its great for everyday makeup, but it usually has titanium dioxide that acts like a sunscreen which can give a halo effect in pictures, so we tend to stay away from it, says Pitkin.

Book It!Around this time, you can start planning for hair and makeup and book your hair professional. Will you wear an updo? Or cascading curls? And, how will you set it off? With a veil, headband or tiara? Make sure to schedule a trial appointment with a hairdresser, and bring in a picture of your desired look along with your hair accessory. The appointment may cost $100 or so, but its worth the money. Youll have the time and peace of mind to discuss options with your hairdresser. The same goes for a make-up artist if you decide to splurge on help. Set up a time to meet with an expert who can help you perfect your wedding day makeup, advising you on false eye lashes and whether a bronzer or self-tan is a good

idea. The goal, says Fontana, is to fashion a look thats pretty and feminine and that is you. Perhaps youll focus on light and airy shades like peach, or borrow ideas from Chelsea Clintons wedding look, which included gray eye makeup to make her light blue eyes pop.

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VENUE

T H I S I S I T. The place where youll walk down the aisle. This. Is. A. Big. Decision. In the hometown church? A museum? Or maybe at the botanical gardens? So many questions come up when searching for a venue. Whats the best time to start looking for a venue? What features should it have? And lets not forget just how vital is the perfect location to a memorable wedding. When searching, make sure the location and your weddings theme go hand-in-hand. Venues can complement the theme by dcor, by the view, by the cuisine, and service, says Susan Cordogan, founder and owner of Big City Bride, a Chicago wedding planning

The Place to Becompany. Cordogan stresses the venue sets the tone for the entire wedding and reception so make sure they are in unison. It would be odd to have a Marie Antoinette gown in a space with exposed brick, she adds. If youre getting married and having the reception at the same spot, the venue also can help you figure out the specific type of reception. Everything from the design to the dress to the capacity of the space will dictate whether youre having a seated dinner or a cocktail, Cordogan says.

and shortcomings. Some venues come with many of the rental items you need and some you must bring in every last piece, Cordogan says. Its important to understand the venue and all of the costs. Beware that many venues dont allow outside catering, so be sure to ask for specific details on cuisine. Also consider the distance between the wedding and reception. It should be close and think about parking and be close to the hotel that people are using, she suggests. And lets not forget about the rehearsal dinner. The couple needs a Places with Panache venue for that too. Just like the recepA lot of venues offer perks, but there tion location, the rehearsal restaurant may also be some regulations. She says needs to be close in proximity to the its vital to know a venue's strong points wedding venue. You want to make sure that it should accommodate the When looking at venues, find out if its cheaper to have both the wedding and recepparty size and it has the flavor that the bride tion at the same location or different. Depending on the venue, getting the most bang and groom are going for your buck could come from staying at the same location for both events. It can for, she says. The ressave you money because everythings at the same location, but it can also cost money taurant for the rehearsbecause youre adding on an extra hour or two, Cordogan says. Fridays or Sundays are al dinner plays a major great for discounts, says Cordogan says, and usually easier to get and come with disrole in the mood, so counts. Just make sure guests know the date in advance so they can make travel and choose location wisely for a fun, serious, or work arrangements to attend the wedding. fancy feel.

12 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

TIME-SAVING TIP

FLOWERSFLOWERS ARE EVERYWHERE at a wedding lining the aisle, in hands, on lapels. But deciding which colors to mix-and-match and where to place the flowers might not be your area of expertise. However, choosing flowers for your wedding that suit your style and personality doesnt have to be difficult.First StepsThe earlier a bride begins thinking of her wedding flowers, the better the result on the wedding day, says Christina Bilby, owner of the Sweet Pickins floral design studio in Oakhrust, Calif. Those who get what they want plan six months to a year in advance, she says. Find a florist that you can trust and understands your style. Trust is really important, Bilby says, stressing its significance in the rela-

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FLOWERStionship between the florist and the bride. Depend on your florist to be really honest. When you find your ideal florist, Bilby recommends that brides inform them of their needs and desires. But if youre a bride who cant connect with her creative or artistic side, then Bilby recommends you take a look at pictures in magazines or catalogs to get a floral design idea for your wedding. bouquet. The grooms boutonniere should match the brides bouquet. The bridesmaids and groomsmens flowers should complement each other too. Mothers of the bride and groom should carry small bouquets or wear corsages also in step with the colors of the wedding. Whether the wedding is at church or an other venue, Bilby recommends many creative spots for flower placements. At a house of worship, altars, windows and the railing to the track can be decorated with flowers to give the venue an eye-catching look. Flowers can also rest on the ends of aisle chairs. In addition to throwing flower petals down the aisle, flower girls can wear headbands decorated with flowers and silk ribbons. For the reception, florals are used to encircle the wedding cake and star as the table centerpieces. A bride should expect to spend about $1,200 or more on floral arrangement for her wedding. Most of the money is spent on centerpieces, Bilby says. Centerpieces or other arrangements may be included with the wedding package at your venue, so be sure to ask. Brides whore looking for easy-to-use, go-to flowers, Bilby recommends the Cymbidium Orchids, her favorite, and a popular wedding choice. Theyre handy, elegant and beautiful when you mix with roses, Bilby says.

What You NeedChoosing floral designs for your wedding is just like any other wedding choice. Its the same with wedding dresses, Bilby says. Think about your favorite color! How flowers fit in with your weddings color theme is the first step to take when planning your flowers. Bilby advises brides to avoid combining too many colors in their bouquets, centerpieces, corsages or other floral designs. Id try to keep to three colors, not so busy, she says. If the wedding is traditional, family members, close relatives or friends should carry flowers with colors matching the brides

14 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

PHOTO & VIDEOonline? As wedding photographers cost an average of $1,500 and up to $5,000 in large urban markets couples may find that the photographer of their dreams is well outside of the budget. Peruse creative wedding blogs or ask friends for referrals in order to get lasting memories without leaving a lasting mark on your bank account.

VideoVideo also captures the important moments of your wedding, and like photography comes in many shapes and sizes, so the same rules for choosing the right photographer apply to video, from looking at prior work to establishing a good connection. Some videographers take a photojournalistic approach to filming, while other are more hands-on. Some will even interview weddings guests to add a documentary feel to the video. If youre able to tell the audience a story about two people without knowing them, youre on the right track, said Tonje Nordgaard, a videographer with Best Video Production, Culver City, Calif. Videography can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand for high-end artistic videos, like vintagestyle Super 8 films. Ask how much footage the videographer is going to take and if your package includes all the footage or just a highlight video of the day. As for the finished products, ask how many DVDs are included with the package. With high-def cameras and media more mainstream, expect to see some shops offering Blu-ray videos, as well.

Capturing theDaysTHE I DOS. The kiss. The walk down the aisle. Maybe a fun post-ceremony photoshoot before heading onto the reception. These are some of the biggest moments of the biggest day of your life, and you will want to cherish the memories and look back at it one day to show your children. Its important to have a good professional photographer you trust, documenting your day because pictures stay with you forever.

Memoriesremember, you are spending the whole day with this person! A photographer should show you the type of pictures he/she takes so you can get an idea of the style of the wedding photos you could expect. A good photographer also will take the time to sense a couples personality, which will help him get a sense of what kind of pictures a couple is expecting. Look for someone who has shot many weddings and can show you images from many different weddings, not just one or two, said Marc Pagani, principal of Marc Pagani Photography in New Orleans. I sometimes will ask the couple if there are any specific images that they want to see beyond the types of images

PhotoIf youve recently had family or friends get married, start by asking them for referrals when you begin your research. Meeting with potential photographers is very important. Youll want to feel comfortable with them and want your personalities to mesh

that theyve seen in my portfolio, he adds. And if so, and they are images Im comfortable creating, I can oblige. To ensure your photographer has what it takes, dont be afraid to ask detailed questions regarding prior experience. Take a good look at past work. That way, youll have a clear idea of how many photos youll get and how much of your day will be captured. Also, when hiring a photographer through a studio, be sure to ask precisely who will photograph your day. If you have questions about photography in general, ask your photographer to explain some of it to you, such as what format they shoot in and why. Do you get a DVD with all the photo files and the rights to them after the wedding? Will they be available to proof

Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 15

RINGS

AllAbout the

BandMAYBE YOU WERENT involved in picking out your engagement bling (or maybe you were, as 36 percent of brides admitted to in a 2009 survey by TheKnot.com), but when you exchange rings during the ceremony, you and your new husband should both know the wedding rings youve chosen will look fabulous. But with so many options out there, choosing a wedding ring is a like battle of the bands. Spouses should keep a few things in mind so shopping for a wed-

ding ring runs smoothly.

Simple or Extravagent

While men tend to lean towards a simple design, women typically decide to go another route. We care about the visual, and they care about the comfort, says Helena Krodel, director of media and special events at Jewelers of America. Some men today are opting to add diamonds or black diamonds, but they tend to be pretty straightforward, she says.

Women tend to want special details like an eternity band a row of diamonds around the ring or even colored gemstones, Krodel says. If you have colored gemstones in your engagement ring, dont be shy about also employing them in your wedding band.

Platinum and Gold

Platimun tends to be the

metal of choice for womens engagement rings and wedding bands, Krodel says. Its not only a beautiful metal, its also hypoallergenic. For men, the metal of choice is typically gold. But be sure to look for the quality mark and the purity before purchasing a gold ring, she adds. 18 carat gold is what people are opting for most often nowadays, she says.

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T R A N S P O R TAT I O N

Riding inStyleT H E L A S T T H I N G any bride or groom wants is to show up late to the party. Arranging a chauffeur to get you and your closest pals from the ceremony to the reception wont just make your day run a lot smoother it will make it more fun for all. Limousine companies tend to get booked quickly during the summer peak wedding season and late spring prom season. Begin looking for a limo as much as six months before these prime periods. If your wedding takes place in the offseason (fall or winter), look to

book three or four months out.

Size MattersThe biggest factor in limo choice will be the size of the wedding party and any extra people who will be traveling in the limo. A smaller group may get by in, say, a stretched-out Lincoln limousine, while a group of a dozen may need a converted-SUV limo. Really large groups 20-some people could even opt for a party bus limo. With the type of ride that would best accommodate you in mind, compare prices

TIME-SAVING TIPMany limo companies offer a wedding package, which typically includes alcohol, soft drinks, and dcor like a Just Married sign. Investigate the options and rates whats set in stone and whats negotiable. Theyll ensure the wedding party has everything it needs for a fun trip, and you can sit back and enjoy the ride. among like vehicles at different vendors in your area. Dont make your decision on price alone. Like every driver on the road, the company you go with

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T R A N S P O R TAT I O Nshould be licensed and insured (including liability and medical insurance for passengers). Look for companies with a fleet of recent model-year vehicles, and seek references from recent customers. When getting a quote, be sure to get the whole picture. The bulk of companies charge by the hour and probably will have a three- or four-hour minimum for a wedding, depending on the day. Prices can range anywhere from $250 to $500 for a stretch limo up to $1,000 for a converted SUV. Dont forget to ask if the drivers gratuity typically 20 percent is included. Depending on the time of year, it may be possible to negotiate the hourly rate. Make, model and year of the vehicle Date of service Pick-up times and locations All costs involved, including deposit and cancellation policies If you dont have a physical contract, be sure to keep a copy of the itinerary in your e-mail

The Nitty-GrittyBe sure to read the rental contract thoroughly before signing. It should denote:

Jewish wedding traditionsCouples of the Jewish faith often spend their wedding ceremony underneath a "chuppah." This is a canopy or covering made from a cloth or sheet stretched over four poles. The chuppah may be freestanding, or it may be held aloft by members of the wedding party. According to tradition, the chuppah symbolizes the home the couple will build together. Although a chuppah isn't a required component of the ceremony and couples will be recognized as married without it, in more cases than not, a chuppah is an integral part of the ceremony.

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F R O M T H E C O C K TA I L hour to the Champagne toast, drinks are a key element of most modern weddings. Some couples even pop corks and bottle caps for guests pre-ceremony, and most keep the beverages going all night long. If a bountiful bar matters to you, youll want to quiz potential caterers on the type and brands of wine, beer and spirits they feature in their various packages, including whether or not Champagne or sparkling wine is included, says Karen Bussen, a New York-based wedding expert and author of the Simple Stunning Wedding books. You might be able to negotiate for your favorite bourbon or higher-end wine, she says. Or, if they cant get it, they may allow you to bring in your own for little or no additional cost. The price for caterer-provided alcohol varies greatly across the country and different types of venues, but, in general, you can expect to pay $7 to $20 per person for a four-hour full bar. Budget-minded couples may want to consider serving only beer, wine and a signature cocktail rather than the whole kit-and-caboodle, suggests Anja Winikka, senior editor of the TheKnot.com, or they could substitute more-affordable Spanish cava, Italian prosecco or even sparkling cider for Champagne during the toasts. If youre allowed to handle the alcohol on your own (plan for one drink per person per hour of the reception), costs will drop significantly; however, youll likely be charged a corkage fee if you need someone with a liquor license (i.e. your caterer) to serve the drinks, and keep in mind that youll need to pay for glassware, mixers, ice and garnishes.

Drink UpLogistics aside, alcohol is also one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to add character to your event. The recent renaissance of the mixologist a fancy word for a creative, skillful bartender has introduced a slew of interesting cocktails to the market, says Winikka. For example, you might set up a tasting bar of cocktail shooters that showcase unique vodkas with flavors ranging from pomegranate and blood orange, to black truffle and kaffir lime. Or, if you have the kind of crowd where overly sweet cocktails wont cut it, you might offer herbal infusions. A zesty cilantro martini is the perfect match for a Latin-themed menu, says Winikka, while different varieties of mint (spearmint, peppermint, etc.) complement a wider variety of foods. Bussen is a fan of build-your-own beverage bars (think mojitos or spiked coffee drinks) and stations that pair hors doeuvres with small sips, such as sushi and sake, ceviche and pisco sours, and tapas and sangria. Shes even seen creative caterers make super-sophisticated Jell-O shots in chic flavors like margarita and gimlet, or serve adult slushies made with delicious syrups and a splash of vodka or Baileys. Many local wineries are also providing personalized labels for some of their bottles, says Bussen, which means you can serve your own special cuvee on the big day. Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 19

MUSIC The perfect party needs just one thing the perfect music!THE MUSIC AND the DJ you have running the show gets the guests excited and ready to party all night. Couples should make sure to do their due musical diligence before deciding on a DJ. Consider the following: One of the first things to look into when scouting potential DJs is to check how long theyve been in the business. You will want to judge their experience with weddings by asking how long they have been in the industry, and how many weddings they have done, says Mike Dodson of MDM Entertainment in Schaumburg, Ill. If they have not been in the industry long, were they trained to perform at weddings and by whom? Note the following: Does the DJ take the

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MUSICtime to get to know you as a couple? How are requests made to the DJ? Is there an online song-management system or forms to fill out? If the songs you desire are not available, will the DJ obtain them? What grade of speakers/subwoofers they have? Do they have backups? See how their system works. If you like what they have to say you should set up a meeting with a company representative or the actual DJ to find out more information and to get to know them as people. Remember, they wont just be spinning tunes all night, theyll also be the emcee for the evening doing introductions, announcing the toasts and cake cutting and setting the overall pace of the evening. Be sure the pro you pick is handled to lead your evening as a whole, not just the dance.

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FOODTHE WEDDING RECEPT I O N dinner not only

can it help set the mood and serve as a hearty thank you to guests whove gathered to celebrate your union, it furnishes the kindling to keep your festivities going all night long. The centerpiece of your soire, it typically starts off slow after the cocktail hour, and can last an hour or two, itself, depending on the style of service. Speaking of service style, asking which ones (plated dinner, family style, buffet, stations or heavy hors doeuvres) might be the best fit for the style of your fte (formal, casual, big, small, indoors, outside, etc.) is a good way to get started when interviewing potential caterers, says Anne Chertoff, a New York-based wedding expert and author of The Wedding Organizer (russell+hazel, 2008). Youll also want to discuss your personal food preferences and budget, and decide if the caterers strengths reflect your needs, advises Kurt Beadell, creative director and co-owner of Vibrant Table Catering & Events in Portland, Ore. For example, are you looking for a creative personality to help build your vision from the ground up, or do you need a more methodical, organized personality to manage the details youve already got worked out? Scope out candidates by reading your local bridal magazine, scanning online reviews or attending area bridal conventions, and then request a tasting. Its best to start this process early on, says Chertoff, as good caterers will book up fast.

Dinner

Destination:

Plan a fantastic meal that shows guests your style and gives them something to smile aboutAs for the pricing, it can vary drastically depending on where you live, the size of your event and your food selections; however, most couples are looking at $20-$40 per person, excluding beverages. A key component of keeping costs in check is picking the right venue, adds Beadell. If, for instance, your wedding is at a park with no kitchen, your caterers will have to build one, he says. That can limit menu options and will increase the total bill.

Mind the MenuAn experienced caterer will be able to

advise you on how to work with your venue, as well as get creative with a tight budget which means you should also spend some time dreaming up ways to have fun with your food. Recently, Beadell has seen a resurgence of traditional dishes with an elevated twist along the lines of cherries jubilee made with fresh, local Bing cherries, kirsch, roasted pistachios and crme fraiche ice cream, as well as a continuing focus on regional dishes featuring local, organic and artisan ingredients. He also suggests personalizing your menu with dishes that reflect a special family recipe (e.g. serving mini portions of Grandmas famous mac and cheese as appetizers) or incorporating foods that are indicative of your travels together. We had one couple that had traveled through Asia and every course represented one of their destinations, he says. For a fabulous finish, Chertoff recommends offering a dessert buffet with sweet treats like gourmet candies, cookies, pastries or pies. Or you can really make a memorable impression by hiring a dessert cart or truck that specializes in cupcakes, donuts or good old-fashioned ice cream cones and sundaes.

22 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

CAKE

Showstopping SweetHeres how to get a fabulous confection thats as delightful on the eyes as it is the tastebudsWHILE SOME COUPLES

slice into their wedding cake immediately following dinner and serve it as dessert, if your towering tiers are a work of art, you may prefer to leave it on display for a while and savor it following the toasts. Either way, the first step in selecting a pretty and tasty! pastry is finding a baker. To determine which is the best fit for your needs, look closely at examples of their work.

If a bakers website shows a bunch of sloppy cakes, dont expect them to knock it out of the park for the first time at your wedding, says Kevin Kossman, co-owner of Piece of Cake Desserts in Mesa, Ariz. Kara Buntin, owner of Richmond, Va.-based A Cake to Remember, recommends asking if the cakes in their portfolio are ones theyve actually done themselves. A lot of people use photos of cakes that other people

have done, she warns. Found a baker whose work you adore? Cover your bases by making sure he or she is licensed and insured. Then its time to consider cost. In general, you should order a cake that would serve about 80 percent of your guests, advises Buntin, as some folks dont eat cake, and others will leave before its served. Prices

vary from city to city, so shop around to find out whats standard for your area. By way of example, Kossman typically sees the cake running 4-to-8 percent of a couples total budget, around $500, on average. As for finalizing your design, Kossman says todays couples are forgoing recent fads like topsy-turvy styles and bold color-combos like black and pink, in favor of elegant cakes with organic-looking elements like branches, birds and butterflies, and sophisticated hues like dark purple and greens.

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Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 23

HONEYMOON

Time to Get AwayT H E V O W S A R E taken, the rings are on, and the guests are gone. Its time to get packing and go off to your romantic getaway. Its just the two of you in a luxurious suite with breakfast in bed, hot tubs and spa relaxations, candlelight dinners and wallet worries. But if you plan right, your wallet worries might not follow you on your getaway. Newlyweds should begin planning for their honeymoon about nine months before the big day as airfare prices and package options will be available, says Kim Guse, a honeymoon specialist at WeddingAndHoney-

moonExperts.com, an online travel agency. First things first, get your budget set, says Guse. You dont want to start planning on a trip that you might not be bale to afford. There are destinations and options for most budgets, says Guse. We can find many nice options for about $2,000 that include food and beverage, she says. For couples feeling the wedding pinch, or those with enough household items already, Guse recommends a honeymoon registry, where guests can gift excursions, spa treatments,

wine and for the honeymoon. Its great to have guests contribute to their honeymoon and provide lasting memories to the couple, she says. For beautiful but inexpen-

sive destinations, Guse recommends Mexico and Caribbean destinations like Jamaica or Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, which they offer great all-inclusive options.

Couples should aim to travel during shoulder seasons (May to November) for better deals and avoid traveling over or near holidays. And, if possible, go with all-inclusive deals to know the entire amount you'll be spending before you depart.

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Honeymoon? How did we think of that?It has become tradition for married couples to jet off on a postwedding vacation. This honeymoon is a way for the bride and groom to enjoy quiet time together and start off their married life together on an intimate level. Although the word "honeymoon" has happy connotations today, the original meanings of the word may not be so blissful. There are varying accounts of the evolution of the word "honeymoon," but many believe it to be a Norse tradition deriving from the word "hjunottsmanathr." Northern European history describes women being abducted from their families and forced into marriage with a man from a neighboring village. This husband would take his new bride into hiding and stay there for a while until it was certain the bride's family had given up the hunt and retreated. It was also tradition for Scandinavian couples to drink a sweet, honey-infused wine known as mead for a month after getting married. This may be where the "honey," for the sweet drink, and the"moon," for the one-month period of time, originated. Others say "honeymoon" refers to a sarcastic quip that a marriage starts out sweet as honey, but then wanes much as the moon will each cycle.

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Secrets to a long and happy marriageSome might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothed's trip down the aisle. We've seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days. It seems even money can't buy matrimonial happiness. But some couples have been together for 50, 60 years and say they're still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their "I dos." What do they know that others do not? According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr. Phil McGraw, "We all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage, but you've got to be true to your core traits and characteristics, what I call your authentic self." Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the

Couples who have stayed married for decades often put each other first and share a mutual respect. other person wants -- one that really isn't what they're all about. This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husband's nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife. In reality, marriage is more of a partner-

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SECRE TS FOR A LONG MARRIAGEship, and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages. There are many other "secrets" that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula. Whether you're pondering marriage or have already tied the knot, consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul. n There's no such thing as the perfect marriage. Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be, and that image that often goes "poof" once reality sets in. Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time. n Couples should express their frustrations. Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage. Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things. n Divorce should not be seen as a viable option. Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife. Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working. Experts say that there are a few issues, like adultery, abuse and drug/alcohol addiction, that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised. n Make time for romance. It's easily said but not so easily done. Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house, kids, work, etc. Today there seems to be even more distractions, from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office. Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses -- even if that's only 10 minutes of alone time a day. n Put "we" first. Many people operate on a "me" mentality. When you're part of a couple, give more to your spouse than you take. If he or she is doing the same, you're working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves. n Respect each other. Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other. Would use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger? Probably not. Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love. It's easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone. Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage, and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it.

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Keep to a schedule for smooth sailing18 to 12 months before weddingq Announce engagement q Decide budget and choose site of ceremony q Reserve your date at location

One monthq Arrange for final fitting on all gowns q Make appointments for hair, makeup and manicure q Have wedding portrait taken q Confirm arrangements with band or DJ q Confirm arrangements with photographer, videographer q Confirm honeymoon reservations q Final consultation with location q Make rehearsal dinner reservations q Write thank-you notes as gifts are received q Change name on legal documents

12 to six months beforeq Choose attendants q Select music, flowers, photographer and videographer q Order wedding dress, attendants and mothers dresses q Plan new home

Six to four months beforeq Compile guest list q Order invitations, thank you notes and personal stationery q Plan honeymoon trip (dont forget passports if necessary) q Order rings q Select bridal registry

Two weeksq Arrange to move belongings to new home q Arrange seating plan for reception with place cards q Pick up wedding rings q Pick up all gowns q Pick up honeymoon tickets

Five daysq Call your photographer, videographer and band or D.J. q Begin packing for honeymoon q Purchase travelers checks q Final consultation with location to pay balance with certified check, bank check or cash q Bring gowns, placecards and final floor plans to location

Three monthsq Confirm delivery date for wedding dress and bridal party q Purchase gifts for bridal party q Arrange for limousine service q Choose formal wear for men

Two monthsq Address and mail wedding invitations q Arrange to get marriage license q Arrangements for out-of-town guests q Contact local newspaper for wedding announcement28 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

One day beforeq Pick up mens formal wear q Attend rehearsal dinner q Rehearsal q Present gifts to attendants Check your luggage

EstimatEq Wedding invitations, announcements $ $

actual

q q q q

Brides dress, accessories Grooms tuxedo Mothers dress Fathers tuxedo

q q q q q

Reception/caterer Photographer Videographer Reception music Rehearsal dinner

q q q q

Flowers for attendants, ceremony reception , Brides flowers Grooms boutonniere Flowers for mothers

q Gifts for bridesmaids q Gifts for ushers and best man

q Wedding rings q Marriage License q Clergymans fee

q Limousine service

Notes:

Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 29

DinnErwarEChina Pattern: Casual Pattern: Service For:

q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Dinner Plate Salad/Dessert Plate Bread and Butter Plate Accent Plate Teacup & Saucer Coffee Cup & Saucer Demitasse Cup Coffee Mug Soup/Cereal Bowl Rim Soup Bowl Cream-Soup Bowl & Stand Serving Platter Fruit Saucers Salad Bowl Eggcup Buffet Plate Dessert Set Serving Bowl Covered Vegetable Salt & Pepper Set Butter Dish Cream & Sugar Gravy/Sauce Boat Quiche Dish Souffle Dish Candlesticks Salad Bowl Napkin Rings Other:

q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Dinner Fork Salad/Dessert Fork Dinner Knife Soup Spoon Tea/Dessert Spoon Butter Spreader Fish Service Cocktail Fork Steak Knives Cream-Soup Spoon Iced-Beverage Spoon Demitasse Spoon Serving Spoon Pierced Spoon Serving Fork Cold-Meat Fork Tomato/Flat Server Gravy/Sauce Ladle Pie Server Cake Knife Sugar Spoon/Tong Butter/Pastry Knife Lemon Fork Carving Set Salad Servers Pasta Server Silver Chest Other:

q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Beer Mug Pilsner Glass Brandy Snifter Sherry Glass Liqueur Glass Irish-Coffee Glass Wine Cooler Decanter Bar Pitcher Punch Bowl Set Corkscrew/Opener Jigger/Bar Tools Wine Rack Coasters Wine/Spirits Other:

GlasswarEFormal Pattern: Casual Pattern: Quantity:

q q q q q q q q q

Goblet Red-Wine Glass White-Wine Glass All-Purpose Wineglass Champagne Flute Champagne Saucer Iced-Beverage Glass Fruit-juice Glass Other:

EntErtainmEntManufacturer: Pattern:

BarwarE/

HomE EquipmEnt /ElEctronicsq q q q qRadio/Clock Radio Telephone/Answering Machine Exercise/Sporting Equipment Closet/Storage System Iron & Ironing Board

FlatwarESilver Pattern: Stainless Pattern: Quantity:

q q q q

Ice Bucket Cocktail Glass Highball Glass Old-Fashioned Glass

30 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

q q q q q q q q

Vacuum Toolbox Smoke Alarm Security Device Shower Massage Fire Extinguisher Barbecue Other:

accEssoriEsq q q q q q q qVase Lamp Clock Mirror size: Area Rug size: Decorative Art/Object Window Treatment Other:

q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Bread Maker Food Processor Mini-processor Blender Stand Mixer Hand Mixer Slow Cooker Electric Skillet Steamer Wok & Utensils Can Opener Juicer Water Filter Microwave Oven Microwave Cookware Cookware Set Skillet/Frying Pan sizes: Saucepan Sizes: Dutch Oven/Stockpot Roasting Pan Bakeware Set Baking Dish sizes: Mixing Bowls Measuring Set Timer/Thermometer Utensil Set Cookbook Other: Style: Manufacturer: Pattern: Quantity: Bed Size:

q q q q q q

Flat Sheet & Fitted Sheet Pillowcase & Sham Blanket Facecloth Bath Mat/Rug Other:

cutlEryq q q q qCutlery Set Sharpening Tool Knife Block Cutting Board Other:

FurniturEMattress/Box Spring Cedar Chest

luGGaGEManufacturer:

q q q q q q

Tables Chairs & Sofa Book/Storage Shelves Entertainment Center Armoire Other:

q q q

Garment Bag Suitcase Other:

linEnsManufacturer: Pattern: Quantity: Table Size:

KitcHEnwarEq q q q q qToaster/Toaster Oven Coffeemaker Coffee Grinder Teakettle Espresso/Cappuccino Maker Ice Cream Maker

q q q

Formal Cloth & Napkins Casual Cloth & Napkins Place Mats

Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012 31

Your Perfect Wedding Index of AdvertisersCakes/DessertsCake by Alissa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Round House Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Catering/Party PlattersAmerican Legion Post 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278 . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Gourmet Deli & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Joe's Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Kaz Pizza & Deli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Financial services...........................Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Floral ArrangementsEveryday Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . inside front cover Mandy's Spring Florist & Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Skenesborough Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Arrangement Shoppe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Bunker Hill Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Creative Events by Ann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Forum Restaurant, The . . . . . . . . . . . . inside front cover Greenwich Elks Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Holiday Inn, Rutland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Lake George Steamboat Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Marble Mansion Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Mendon Mountain View Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Prospect House Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Rainers Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Riley Rink at Hunter Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Salem Tavern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Skene Manor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Station House B & B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Wheel Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Rentals TentsGreen Mountain Tent Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Gifts/Home Decor/SuppliesAs Time Goes By . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Green's Sugarhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 K & S Ruane Maple Sugar Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Maplewood Ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Pizzazz Pottery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Williams Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Skin & Body CareLinda Roche - Arbonne Consultant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

TanningKokomo's at the Cleaning Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

TransportationAutomobile International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Horse Drawn Carriage Rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Pristine Limo Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Hair SalonWavelenghts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Wedding Attire / AlterationsDanielles Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Fashion Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Ginger Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Jonathan Reid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 McNeil & Reedy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Ruby's Nimble Thimble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

InvitationsQuickPrint of Rutland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

JewelryDockside Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Hannoush Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Timothy Shea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Waldron and Rhodes Inside back cover

Wines/LiquorsBig Foot Wine & Liquor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Kingsbury Wine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Liquor Stop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

MassageGreenwich Therapeutic Massage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Music/EntertainmentHarp & Flute Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Penguin Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Photography/Video At the Woods Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Off The Beaten Path by Maria Celeste . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Reception/Lodging/RestaurantsArlington Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............back cover American Legion Post 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278 . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Bennington Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Bayview Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Our cover photo of Caitlin Rogers and Thomas Piacentini was taken by Salem photographer Corrina Aldrich. The couple were married on September 10, 2011. They had their wedding at the Georgi Museum on the banks of the Batten Kill River in Shushan.

Our Cover

32 Manchester Newspapers Perfect Wedding 2012

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