Perfect Wedding 2014

44
MANCHESTER NEWSPAPERS 2014 Perfect Wedding

description

Perfect Wedding 2014

Transcript of Perfect Wedding 2014

MANCHESTER NEWSPAPERS 2014

Perfect Wedding

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 1

(518) 668-5781, 2223 State Rt 9, Lake George, NY • www.lakegeorgeturf.com/weddings

The Holiday Inn was just purely amazing.

Everyone was very friendly and helpful from the front

desk folks to the restaurant staf. We truly had the best

day of our lives. Every person we talked to said the

food was amazing, the staf was friendly and helpful.

Absolutely no complaints.” –April

Plan Your Special Day at Our Beautiful Resort.

Our experienced Bridal Consultants are ready to

help you create the perfect wedding ceremony,

reception, rehearsal dinner and bridal shower

with the beautiful ambiance of Lake George.

2 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

“It is our sincere desire to assist you with our experience, knowledge and expertise.”

~ Natalie Clark

From Rutland area take Rte 4 to Whitehall, NY to NY Route 22 North, Rte 9 North to Port Henry.

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 3

Have Your Event at theHistoric Whitehall Armory!

62 Poultney Street, Whitehall, NY

WhitehallAthleticClub.com

• Events of All Sizes• Various Room Sizes• Extraordinary

Historical Building• Large Bar Room• Working Fireplaces• Excellent Photographic

Backdrops Throughout• Customize Your Menu

and Event Format

Call (518) 499-0134 for [email protected]

Photos courtesy of Carli Donsky Photography

4 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances

Money Management

How to stay energized throughout your wedding day

Why you need a wedding planner

Save-the-date card etiquette

Wedding invitations tip sheet

Things to consider when mulling a destination wedding

Negotiation know-how

Choosing the rightwedding reception favors

Explore unique cakeflavor combinations

Tips for selectingwedding day flowers

6

8

10

11

12

13

14

16

18

20

22

Once a couple has been married,

tradition states that they be cov-

ered with tossed rice upon exit-

ing the ceremony. The idea of throw-

ing rice began during the Middle

Ages, when rice symbolized fertility.

Rice was tossed at the married couple

in the hopes they would have many

children and be blessed with prosperity

as a family. A false rumor spread that

rice was harmful to birds who would eat

the discarded rice and explode, so

many people now use birdseed or rose

petals as alternatives. However, rest

assured that the rice myth has been

debunked by The Cornell Lab of

Ornithology.

Tradition behind tossing rice

PlanningMade Easy

Unforgettable Moments

Careful timing makes weddings go off without a hitch

How to approach musicon your wedding day

Tuxedo purchasing pointers

Tuxedo history

Roles of the best manand maid of honor

Tips when toasting the bride and groom

Makeup tips forbrides and bridesmaids

Unplug and Recharge

Destination Happiness

24

26

28

30

30

31

32

33

34

35

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 5

Creating memories for a lifetime.

Visit our Facebook page Killington Weddings & Conferences

Killington Resort is one of Vermont’s most sought-after destinations specializing in creating beautiful intimate ceremony’s and receptions from 25 to 300 people.

Rehearsal Dinners • Ceremonies • Receptions • Farewell Brunch

Friday Evening Receptions • Saturday Afternoon ReceptionsSunday Brunch Receptions

Peak Ceremonies & WeddingsNew Peak lodge located on top of our mountain open for 2014

weddings. Breathtaking views of 5 states!

For more information contact: [email protected] Call 802-422-6976

The Killington Grand Hotel

6 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Newlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons. One of the more criti-

cal issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going forward.

Combining finances can be a touchy sub-ject for many couples, especially those who had not given much thought to their finances prior to tying the knot. But there are steps couples can take to make the process of merging finances go more smoothly.

• Discuss finances early and often. Allowing finances to be the elephant in the room is a mistake, as couples do not want to begin their lives together treading lightly around an issue as significant as finances. Couples should discuss their expenditures and spending habits as early as possible, as one of the biggest hurdles newly mar-ried couples must clear is coming to grips

with one another’s financial habits. If such habits have already been discussed, then developing a financial plan will be much

easier once that time comes. When dis-cussing finances, define both short-term and long-term goals and how each of you can adjust your spending habits to make those goals come true.

• Pay off any debts. The cost of weddings has skyrocketed over the last several decades, and many newlyweds find them-selves in a considerable amount of debt upon returning from their honeymoons. When merging finances, couples should prioritize paying down such debt, as debt is a significant source of stress for newly-weds and long-married couples alike. Newly married couples with little or no debt should avoid spending above their means in the months after they get married. Such spending is commonplace, as newly mar-ried couples often want to fully furnish their new homes or reward themselves for pull-ing off their weddings. But new debt can be just as stressful on a marriage as debt

Merging finances is an issue many newly married couples face upon returning from their honeymoons.

Tips for newlyweds B u d g e t

WEDDING SERVICES• Brides• Mother of the Bride• Pageants• Plus Sizes• Alterations Available• Bridesmaids• Proms & Formals• Special Occasions• Tuxedo Rental• Accessories

Open 10AM-7PM Monday-Friday10AM-6PM Saturday • 10AM-3PM Sunday

Like us on Facebook

4249 Rt 50Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 7

from the wedding, so avoid this potentially problematic pitfall by paying down existing debts with your newly merged finances.

• Make note of mutual expenses and open a joint account to pay for those expenses. Mutual expenses like mortgage payments, food and utilities should be the responsibility of each partner, and a joint account should be established to handle such expenses. When opening a joint account, discuss how much and how often each part-ner will contribute money. One partner might earn consider-ably more money than another, so work out a reasonable agreement that details how much each partner will contrib-

ute each month, and whether such contributions will be made on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis.

• Make concessions for one another. When merging financ-es, couples often discover that they don’t see eye-to-eye on how each person spends money. Couples who success-fully merge their finances often note the importance of making concessions with regard to their partners’ spending on cer-tain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those hobbies are not putting couples in debt or jeop-ardizing their financial goals, couples can make concessions so their partners continue to be happy and enjoy their favorite activities.

Merging finances is an issue that looms for many newlyweds or couples about to tie the knot. Though it’s not always easy,

merging finances early and dis-cussing goals can ensure new-lyweds get off on the right financial foot.

about to merge financesB u d g e t

8 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Money Management

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

AFTER “BOTTOMING OUT” at around $22,000 a couple

years ago, the average cost of a wedding has settled some-

where between $25,000 and $26,000, according to according to

The Wedding Report, the Tucson, Ariz.-based wedding market

research company.

Yes, that’s a hefty number, but remember that that number is

an average, not a target. More than the number is how couples

are behaving with the. With couples using savings and on-hand

cash — read: not going into debt! —to pay for their weddings,

they’re being more cautious on how they deploy their dollars. In

short, they want ot be sure that they and their guests get the

most out of what they spend.

For example, a groom might decide it’s better to invest a few

hundred dollars in a suit he’ll wear for years rather than spend

$100 to rent a tuxedo he’ll wear for one day. Couples might

decide not to overdo it on reception decorations and instead

invest more in the dinner and drinks

The Basics of the Budget

To establish your magic number, look at your designated sav-

ings, contributions from parents or other relatives, and what of

your regular income you can devote toward the wedding, with-

out sabotaging your day-to-day budget.

When you’ve come up with your number, plug it in a budget

formula to see how much you have to spend in each area of

your wedding. Follow these estimates to get started. Remem-

ber, the figures are just estimates, so adjust as necessary to fit

your wedding’s needs:

• Reception – 50%

• Music – 10%

• Flowers – 10%

• Wedding Attire – 10%

• Photo/Video – 10%

• Stationery – 5%

• Miscellaneous – 5%

B u d g e t

It’s Your Special Day...

CALL US TO ADD FLARE TO YOUR FESTIVITY!

Debbie White & Janine Kubricky7956 State Route 40, Hartford, NY 12838

Phone: 518-632-9900 • Cell: 518-796-4516

Creative Cateringof What’s Cookin’ Restaurant

Make it Especially Delicious with

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 9

10 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

A couple’s wedding day is the culmina-tion of months and months of planning. For most, it is one of the most memo-

rable, magical days of their lives, filled with fond moments of time spent with close friends and family.

As enjoyable as a wedding can be, most brides and grooms who have already tied the knot can attest that a wedding is a long, often tiring day. It is very easy for energy levels to wane. To ensure you have enough energy to last through to the final good-bye of the evening, follow these sug-gestions to remain ener-gized.

• Recognize your wed-ding day is a very long day. It’s possible to rise quite early in the morning to begin prepping with makeup, hair styles, ward-robe and more. If the party is an evening reception, it could last until the wee hours of the night. You may find yourself up for nearly 24 hours, when the camer-as will be flashing and the video rolling throughout. Naturally, you’ll want to look your best throughout.

• Get a good night’s sleep the night before. Get to bed early the night before so you will get ample sleep and look rest-ed. It is understandable that nerves and excitement may get the best of you and make it difficult to fall asleep. If you often grow anxious and struggle to fall asleep before big events, talk to your doctor prior to the wed-ding to ask if you can be prescribed a one-time-only sleeping pill that will ensure you get to sleep promptly. Do not take this medication with alcohol, and be sure to take it only if you can get a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Otherwise you may experience medicine hangover.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast. At breakfast on the morning of your wedding, consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein.

The carbs will provide the initial burst of ener-gy you need to get going, and the protein will keep you feeling full. A combination of whole wheat toast, fresh fruit and Greek yogurt makes for a filling start to the day.

• Stay hydrated. Although drinking a lot of water can result in more frequent trips to the bathroom — which can be cumbersome for brides wearing their gowns — it is essential to stay hydrated. Dehydration can result in head-aches, weakness and dizziness and may make you feel cranky. Be sure to consume water throughout the day.

• Pack some snacks. The time between breakfast and the cocktail hour of a wedding may be significant. In your wedding “survival”

kit, be sure to pack some easy snacks to eat. Trail mix can be nibbled for a boost of energy, and a banana can take the edge off of hun-ger pangs. Avoid anything messy that can drip onto clothing or get stuck in your teeth.

Arrange to have snacks stowed in the limousine or another mode of transpor-tation so that you can refu-el on the way to the cere-mony or in transit to the reception.

• Don’t overdo it with caf-feine. It may be tempting to lean on an energy drink or a super-size cup of cof-fee to give you the boost you need. But caffeine is only a temporary fix. After the effects of the caffeine wear off, you could find yourself more tired than before and crash at an inopportune time during the day. Instead, a brisk walk outdoors may recharge your batteries. Afterward, time spent on the dance floor enjoying the reception will likely stimulate some adrenaline to keep you going.

• Eat dinner. When family is beckoning and the pho-tographer needs to get yet another pose, it is easy to skip dinner. Be firm with your decision to enjoy your meal. After all, you paid for it and it should not go to waste. Besides, sitting down to dinner enables you to rest and absorb the atmosphere of the wed-ding.

• Continue to drink plenty of water throughout the night. Alcoholic beverages may be flowing, but too many spirits can compromise your energy levels. Be sure to balance the booze with hydrating fluids, such as water or juice.

Weddings take up the entire day, and it can be easy to succumb to a lack of energy as the day progresses. But by heeding a few tips, it’s possible to remain in top form throughout the entire wedding.

How to stay energized throughout your wedding day

P L A N N I N g

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 11

Planning a wedding is often both fun and frustrating. While planning a party for friends and family can be

fun, couples can easily be overwhelmed by the nuts and bolts of planning such a sig-nificant event. Interviewing vendors, negoti-ating prices and arranging for accommoda-tions are just a few of the many tasks cou-ples must complete before they can finally relax and tie the knot. The sheer volume of decisions couples must make when plan-ning a wedding is one reason many men and women seek the services of wedding planners. The following are some additional reasons couples might want to ease their burdens and hire wedding planners as they get ready for their big day.

• Planners are familiar with vendors. Wedding planners work for couples, and while planners often recommend certain vendors, they typically work with whomever the couples ultimately choose. As a result, veteran wedding planners tend to have worked with every florist, caterer, deejay, and venue in their areas. That makes them an invaluable resource to couples who don’t know where to begin as they start planning their weddings. Wedding planners can save couples time by suggesting cou-ples avoid certain vendors, whether it’s because those vendors have poor service records or they simply don’t fit into a cou-ple’s budget. Wedding planners also can make recommendations based on what couples want. For example, wedding plan-ners may know which deejays are best for more raucous receptions and which ones are best suited for couples who want a more formal affair.

• Planners know pricing. Wedding ven-dors often leave room for negotiation when making proposals to prospective custom-ers. Seasoned wedding planners will know the going rates for various services, help-ing couples get the best rates possible and doing so with minimal effort. In addition, planners might be able to negotiate directly with vendors they have worked with in the past, removing one of the biggest stressors of planning a wedding, the negotiation pro-cess, from the list of responsibilities cou-ples must handle before tying the knot.

• Planners remember the small details you’re likely to forget. Many couples who have large weddings are getting married for the first time, and there are bound to be details they overlook along the way. Seasoned wedding planners are far less likely to overlook even the tiniest of details, helping couples rest easy knowing that no stone has gone unturned as their big days draw closer and closer.

• Planners keep you on course. The lon-ger a couple’s engagement, the easier it becomes to put certain decisions off. But as the wedding day draws nearer, that pro-crastination often turns into panic, as cou-ples realize their options dwindling and decisions need to be made as soon as possible. Wedding planners hired shortly after a couple gets engaged will be there to ensure couples stay on track, making decisions as needed and not putting important decisions off until the last minute.

• Planners make the wedding day less stressful. Despite all the planning and preparation that goes into their weddings,

couples often find their wedding days to be whirlwind days that seem to fly by. Small problems on a couple’s wedding day have a tendency to be magnified, but a sea-soned wedding planner can address such issues before the couple is even aware they existed. This makes the day much more enjoyable for the bride and groom and their investment in a wedding planner that much more worthwhile.

Why you need a wedding planner

P L A N N I N g

THECLEANING CENTER

51 Main Street, Fair Haven802-265-3603

www.kokomosvt.com“The Ultimate Tanning Experience”

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED!

LOWEST PRICES IN THE AREA!

• Certified Staff

• Air Brush Tanning

• Air Conditioned

• Lotions & Accessories

9am-8pm Daily

• 11 Tanning Beds

• 1 Stand-Up

• Air Brush Tattoos

• Gift Certificates

Join us on Facebook for Extra Values

jonathanreidmenswear.comConvenient hours &. location. No payment necessary until pickup

MEN’S CLOTHING IS OUR BUSINESSWE MAKE RENTING YOUR TUX EASY.

Great low prices & excellent service have made us THE AREA’S LEADER in Tuxedo Rentals

Quality Men’s Clothing Quality Men’s Clothing and Tuxedo Rentalsand Tuxedo Rentals

Aviation Mall, Queensbury, NY, 518-793-5678 or 518-793-9171

Groom’s tuxFREE

Wilton Mall, Saratoga Springs, NY, 518-581-9173 with a party of 5 or more

Father of the Bride OR Ringbearer at HALF PRICE!

12 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Many couples find that tradition reigns supreme when plan-

ning a weddings. Certain tradi-tions, such as fathers walking their daughters down the aisle and grooms sharing a dance with their mothers at the recep-tion, are moments to cherish. Though such traditions have withstood the test of time, cou-ples still have some opportuni-ties to embrace relatively recent traditions.

One such recent tradition is the save-the-date card, a precursor to wedding invitations that sim-ply lets guests know when the wedding is so they can clear

their calendars and be there on a couple’s big day. While save-the-date cards are best kept simple, there are a few rules couples should follow before sending their cards out to loved ones.

• Finalize the guest list before sending save-the-date cards. Couples must finalize their guest lists before sending their save-the-date cards. Doing so avoids the potentially messy situation that would no doubt arise if a person were to receive a save-the-date card but then not make the final guest list. Trimming the guest list often comes down to financ-

es, so couples also want to agree on their budget before sending out their save-the-date cards. Once the guest list has been finalized, couples can send out their save-the-date cards as soon as possible.

• Confirm addresses. Couples should confirm their loved ones’ addresses before mailing any save-the-date cards. This can be easily accomplished by sending mass emails to friends and family members or contact-ing individuals via private mes-sages sent on social media sites. Postage to send save-the-date cards can be costly, especially for couples with large guest lists. Confirming addresses can save couples money on potentially wasted postage should the cards be returned because they were sent to the wrong address. In addition, confirming addresses ensures everyone gets their cards and no one feels left out when relatives receive cards and they don’t because a cou-ple did not have their correct address.

• Keep things appropriate. Save-the-date cards need not

be as formal as wedding invita-tions, but they should still be appropriate. Guests often keep save-the-date cards on their refrigerators, where people of all ages can see the cards. So while cards can be light-heart-ed, they should still be family-friendly. For example, photos of the bride- and groom-to-be decked out in swimsuits should be avoided.

• Don’t overdo it with infor-mation. Save-the-date cards don’t need to include as much information as the more formal invitations, which tend to include information about the ceremony, reception, hotel, directions, and other relevant wedding details. A save-the-date card only needs to include the date of the wedding, includ-ing the month, day and year so guests are not confused if the cards are going out well in advance of the wedding day. Couples can include a link to their wedding Web site on the backs of their save-the-date cards, which makes it easier for guests to learn more details about the wedding without inundating them with informa-tion too early.

Save-the-date card etiquette

I N V I t A t I O N S

Weddings Banquets Meetings

Franklin Conference Center at the Howe Center

802-773-0045We cater from 30 to 275 people with

reasonable prices. We feature a professional chef to cater to specific foods you will want.

• Owner & Executive Chef• Friendly & Professional Service

• Year Round Service• Complete Catering Services & Full Bar

• Small & Large Groupswww.franklin-conferencecenter.com

email: [email protected]

Hours: Wed. - Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-523 Main Street, (County Rt. 23), Hartford, NY

518-632-5166

A GATHERING OF

GIFTS & ACCESSORIES

FOR YOUR COUNTRY HOMEWe have a wonderful selection of curtains and country home accents.

FOLK ART • PRIMITIVES • LAMPS • RUGS • CANDLESJEWELRY • PASHMINA SCARVES & MUCH MORE!

Call 800-354-4232 to advertise in the

Perfect Wedding 2015

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 13

Wedding invitations often provide guests with a first glimpse of a wedding’s style. Invitations also

may serve as the means by which distant friends and relatives find out about a cou-ple’s pending nuptials if a formal announcement was not made.

Amid the flourishes of calligra-phy and impressive paper stock is information that speaks to the importance of the day when two people will be joining their lives together. Guests will learn not only the time and the place of the wedding from the invitation, but also the formali-ty of the event and the scope of the party that will follow.

Couples should keep certain things in mind as they begin to design their wedding invi-tations.

• Have a good idea of your potential guest list. Before shopping for wedding invita-tions, it is key to have a strong idea of just how big the wedding will be and how many guests will be invited. This way you will know how many invitations you will need. Invitations vary in price, so cost may be a consideration if your guest list is extensive.

• Decide on the formality of the wedding. Will you be hosting a black tie affair, or will it be a casual gathering at the shore? Guests infer many things about the wedding from the invitations, which should match the formality of the event in style and the sen-timents expressed. An ornate invitation written with classic wording suggests a more formal affair, while a whimsical invi-tation with less formal wording could indi-cate a more laid-back event.

• Dare to be different by playing with invitation sizes and shapes. Rectangular cards are standard for wedding invitations, but you can explore your creativity by choosing more modern, artsy invitations. Circular invites or scalloped edges can add some whimsy to the wedding mood. Invitations that fold out or are embellished with ribbon or other decorations can be

appealing. Just keep in mind that cards that are not the standard shape and size could be more costly to send. Always have the entire wedding invitation weighed and priced at the post office so you will know what the postage will cost.

• Choose a legible font and text color. Your invitation may look beautiful, but it may prove ineffective if it is difficult to read. Do not risk guests misinterpreting the date or the location because they can-not read the writing on the invitation. Steer clear of pastel or yellow text colors, and remember to have a high contrast between the color of the invitation and the text you are using for easy reading.

• Keep the invitation simple. It may be tempting to load the invitation with lots of information, but all you really need are the key pieces of information, such as the “who,” “what,” “where,” and “when.”

Crowding the card will take away from its aesthetic appeal. Most stationers will sug-gest a separate, smaller insert in the wed-ding invitation for the reception informa-tion and response card. Never put infor-mation such as where you are registered or “no kids allowed.” This is material better

reserved for word of mouth or on a wed-ding Web site.

• Do some math. It is important to know your dates so you can receive the invitations on time, mail them out, and give guests enough time to respond. A good rule of thumb is to mail out the invitations at least two months before the wed-ding. Have an RSVP date of no more than three to four weeks before the wedding, giv-ing ample time to the caterers and accommo-dating anyone who pro-crastinates in sending in a response. You will need the final headcount in order to confirm seating arrangements and plan for centerpieces and favors.

• Handwrite the enve-lopes. Your invitation will look more impressive if you address them by hand, rather than printing them off of a computer. If your handwriting is not very neat, consider hiring a pro-fessional calligrapher to write out your envelopes.

• Make it easy for guests to respond. Be sure to place a stamp on the response card envelope and have that envelope already addressed with your home address so that guests will have no excuses not to mail a response back promptly.

• Always order extra. Mistakes happen, and you may need to send out a few extra invitations that you hadn’t originally count-ed. Always order extra invitations just to be on the safe side. And don’t forget you will probably want to keep one as a keep-sake for yourself.

Wedding invitations tip sheetI N V I t A t I O N S

14 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

According to a study from XO Group Inc., creator of wedding Web sites TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.

com, 350,000 destination weddings take place annually. Such figures reflect a grow-ing trend of couples who want to tailor their weddings to their own personalities, even if that means tying the knot in exotic or unusual locales.

But as popular as destination weddings have become, couples who have had have such weddings can attest that planning a destination wedding is not necessarily eas-ier than planning a more traditional cere-mony close to home. Though destination weddings can make for memorable affairs, there are some factors couples must con-sider when mulling whether or not to have a destination wedding.

Guest list

The XO Group study found that destination weddings have an average of 86 guests. When sitting down to organize their guest lists, many couples realize they have well over 100 guests on their lists. Such cou-ples may find a destination wedding espe-cially difficult to pull off, as resorts may or may not be able to accommodate such a substantial number of guests. In addition, couples who hope to invite children to their

weddings might want to reconsider a desti-nation affair, as those youngsters’ parents will have to foot the bill for additional airfare and accommodations and, depending on when the wedding takes place, pull the kids out of school for an extended period of time. Couples with smaller guests list might find a destination wedding much more manageable than those whose guest lists crack triple digits.

Another thing to consider is that the larger the guest list, the more likely many of those guests will not be able to afford to attend or get enough time off from work to make it to a destination wedding. Couples who want to ensure all of their loved ones can be there with them on their big days might be better off avoiding destination weddings.

Accessibility

Accessibility is a common concern for cou-ples considering destination weddings. Destination weddings typically ask guests to travel far to attend the ceremony and reception, but there are ways to make that travel less of an ordeal. When choosing a location for their destination weddings, couples should consider the cost and con-venience of travel. Remote islands are not very accessible, and as a result guests will

likely have to pay a pretty penny for their flights and lodging. In addition, the more remote a destination wedding locale is, the less convenient getting there figures to be. Nonstop flights likely won’t be a possibility. Before choosing a locale for a destination wedding, research flights, making sure that affordable flights are available within spit-ting distance of loved ones’ homes and that they won’t have to suffer through multi-ple connecting flights when traveling to and from the wedding.

Weather

Weather is another factor couples must consider before choosing to have a desti-nation wedding. The XO Group study found that 30 percent of American couples who have destination weddings choose to tie the knot outside of the continental United States. That’s a distinct disadvantage for couples who likely are not very familiar with weather patterns overseas. Couples who choose outdoor weddings close to home are often familiar enough with local weather patterns to choose a wedding date that likely won’t be interrupted by harsh weather. But choosing an overseas or dis-tant locale erases that comfort level, and couples may find themselves worrying about storms or other inclement weather conditions as their wedding days draw nearer. Before choosing a locale for their destination weddings, couples should thor-oughly research each potential destina-tion’s weather patterns. Brides, grooms and guests alike don’t want to do all of that traveling only to end up indoors because it just so happens to be tropical storm sea-son.

Competition

As destination weddings have grown in popularity, the competition for idyllic locales and top-notch venues has increased. That competition is great for venue owners’ bot-tom lines, but it might not be so great for couples looking to keep their wedding costs down. Costs might be considerably less in the off-season, but that’s also when storms and inclement weather tend to take hold, Booking a venue early can help cou-ples mitigate some of the costs of a desti-nation wedding, but the growing popularity of destination weddings might make them out of reach for couples working on tight budgets.

Things to consider when mulling a destination wedding

V e N u e

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 15

16 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Many engaged couples have grandiose visions of their wed-ding days. While such visions typically come to fruition, they often do so only after heavy negotiations with the

various vendors necessary to turn a dream wedding into a reality.

Negotiating prices with wedding vendors is something brides- and grooms-to-be may not anticipate, but the process of negotiation is paramount for couples who hope to plan their dream weddings without ruining their budgets. Though vendors vary considerably with regard to their willingness to negotiate, the following are a few tips for couples hoping to get the best deals possible on their wed-ding services.

• Prepare, prepare, prepare. Couples who blindly enter negotia-tions with wedding venues and vendors are far less likely to get a good deal. When working with any wedding vendor, whether it’s a wedding venue representative, a local florist or a deejay, couples should know what the going rate for the vendor’s services are. Couples who find a venue they like should receive quotes from similar venues before negotiating a rate with the venue they most prefer. Arming oneself with quotes from competitors increases the chances of receiving a more couple-friendly quote from the venue liked best, as that venue won’t want to lose business, especially to one of its chief competitors. In addition to pricing, estimates from other venues can vary based on what they include. Even if a favorite venue does not come down much on its original quote, they may be willing to add extra services, such as an open bar or an extra hour during the reception, free of charge to match a com-petitor’s offer. But they cannot match such offers if couples don’t first do their homework and solicit estimates from their competi-tors.

• Avoid making demands. Coming off as too demanding when negotiating prices with wedding vendors may not produce the results couples are hoping for. Much like couples don’t want to receive “take it or leave it” offers, vendors don’t want to be given demands they have to meet in order to book a wedding. The right tone can go a long way with wedding vendors, who are typically more willing to work with couples who treat them nicely than cou-ples who enter the negotiation process full of demands. Vendors often like it when couples know what they want, but couples are not doing themselves any favors when they express those desires as demands.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for more. Making demands and asking for more are not the same thing. When negotiating with wedding vendors, there’s no harm in asking for more. For example, the worst a deejay can do when asked to play an extra hour at no additional charge is deny that request. Reception venues often have the most wiggle room, so don’t be afraid to ask for free cof-fee with dessert or valet parking. Vendors are often open to sug-gestion and willing to honor requests, but it’s not their responsibili-ty to make such offers.

Negotiation know-howHow to get the best deals on wedding services

Couples who make the most of the negotiation process with wedding vendors often find it easier to make their dream weddings a reality.

P L A N N I N g

Wedding FlowersNaturally Beautiful!

Free Consultation

www.gardenworksfarm.com1055 Rt. 30 in Salem, NY • 518-854-3250

AT MacCLAN FARMS

199 Main Street, Poultney, VT802-287-4621

[email protected]

Boxed Chocolates70 Jars of Novelty Candy • Cards

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 17

• Make sure all contracts are itemized, and read them thor-oughly before signing on the dotted line. The negotiation pro-cess is often tedious, and contracts should reflect that. When hir-ing a wedding vendor, make sure the contract is itemized, spelling out in intimate detail just what was negotiated and how much each item costs. Couples may even notice items in the contract that can be removed, saving them a few dollars as a result. Be especially mindful of extra fees that can add up. For example, some venues try to make up for lower rates couples negotiated by tacking on fees for cutting the cake or other minute details. These fees will be in the contract, and it’s up to couples to have them removed before they sign and the contract becomes official.

• Remember there are two parties involved in the negotiation process. Vendors are not the only ones who might need to bend a little at the negotiating table. Couples might have to be flexible in order to make their dream weddings a reality. Some vendors charge considerably less during certain times of the year than they do during peak wedding season. If couples are finding it impossi-ble to afford the wedding of their dreams during peak wedding season, they should consider tying the knot during a less popular time of year, when venues and vendors can offer them more com-petitive rates. Brides- and grooms-to-be cannot expect vendors to bend over backward for couples who aren’t willing to make any concessions themselves, so couples might have to make certain sacrifices at the negotiating table when planning their weddings.

Negotiation plays a significant role in wedding planning. Couples who take the process of negotiation seriously often find the best deals without having to make too many concessions.

P L A N N I N g

TuxedoRentals& Sales

For All Occasions with Exceptional

Style and Superior Service

The Largest Selection of Distinctive International Designer Tuxedos and

Suits in Vermont!

81 Merchants Row, Rutland, VT800-540-4889 • 802-773-7760

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 9-5

Build your own tuxedo at www.mcneilandreedy.com

OPENYEAR

‘ROUND!

802-265-9190 • Rt 4A Hydeville Plaza, Hydeville VTLUNCH & DINNER TUESDAY - SATURDAY, 11AM-8PM

Call 800-354-4232 to advertise in the

Perfect Wedding 2015

18 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Planning a perfect wed-ding is no small under-taking. From scheduling

venues and hiring vendors to tasting menus, lots of decisions must be made when planning a wedding. But when the pieces fall into place, the entire day can be magical.

One of the final components of weddings are the favors guests will take home with them as mementos of the festivities. Though favors don’t require immediate attention, that does not mean couples should wait until the last minute to made decisions regarding their wed-

ding favors.

Brides- and grooms-to-be should not underestimate the importance of handing out wedding favors, a tradition with a rich history. A wedding favor is considered a symbol of good will to guests, and there are many different wedding favors on the market. Finding the right one can take a little work. It is usually a good idea to find something that suits the theme of the wedding and is both long-lasting and practical. Try to avoid anything that is too kitschy.

A couple’s budget should be considered when choosing wedding favors. A couple may want to give their guests lavish gifts but should only do so if their budget allows. It may be challenging for couples to find favors that fit the theme of their wedding, as well as their own personalities and budgets. But it can be done. The following are some favor-finding guide-lines.

Be creative

Wedding favors can be just about anything, so there’s no need to stick to Jordan almonds or wine bottle stop-pers. The more creative cou-ples are, the more receptive their guests will likely be. For example, for an autumn-theme wedding, fill mason jars with the ingredients for a spiced cake and give the recipe direc-tions on a tag. For a summer wedding, gift guests with a sun and surf survival bag, full of sunblock, a beach towel and sunglasses.

Complete the theme

Some weddings follow a partic-ular theme from start to finish, and wedding favors should stick with that theme. Couples who will showcase their love of travel on their wedding days may want to give guests keychains or purse holders that feature popular landmarks around the world. Those who are admitted beach bums may want to present a small fish-bowl with sand and a goldfish inside, reminiscent of days at the seashore.

Go traditional

Couples who opt for universally appealing favors can lean toward some popular options, such as silver cake servers, candlestick holders, decorative photo frames, or engraved keepsake boxes. Aim for favors that have utility. Otherwise, favors may end up collecting dust on someone’s shelf.

Food and beverage gifts are

fun

Food favors mean guests can enjoy their gifts and not have to worry about finding space inside their homes to display trinkets. Food favors can be lavishly decorated cookies, fine chocolates, petit fours, small bottles of champagne or cup-cakes decorated like the wed-ding cake.

Favors are often integral to wedding celebrations. Selecting a favor that will be appreciated and fit with the wedding is often a fun and stress-free part of planning a wedding.

Choosing the right wedding reception favors

F O O d & d R I N K S

EAST CREEKCATERING

FULLY EQUIPPED MOBILE KITCHEN

SAMPLE MENUS AVAILABLE AT

www.eastcreekcatering.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL

KATHIE COMSTOCK AT 802.353.0786 OR

[email protected]

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 19

We offer the intimacy and imagination to ensure your special

event is truly memorable. Our sophisticated and quintessential

New England setting is the perfect backdrop for your

gathering. Reserve the entire property, or just enjoy the views

from your private suite or garden cottage.

POND MOUNTAIN INN

celebrate your wedding at the

WELLS, VERMONT

WHERE CITY CHIC MEETS RUSTIC ELEGANCE

1955 SAWMILL HILL ROAD, WELLS, VERMONT 05774 • 802-325-2829 • WWW.PONDMOUNTAININN.COM

20 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

A wedding cake is the pièce de résis-

tance of the wedding ceremony.

Guests anxiously await the unveiling of

the cake near the end of the festivities.

Modern cakes are showpieces grander in

scale than in years past. As bakers and con-

fectioners hone their skills with fondant, but-

tercream and gum paste even further, the

results are often impressive, awe-inspiring

cake designs.

While the look of a wedding cake is certainly

important, cakes should not only look good,

but taste good as well. Vanilla cake with vanil-

la buttercream frosting was once the gold

standard. But today’s couples are being more

adventurous with their wedding cakes and

winning rave reviews from guests along the

way.

The vast scope of wedding cake flavor choic-es available to brides and grooms is astonish-ing. Options may range from the traditional to something adventurous and daring. Keeping in mind that couples will need to please the masses, finding a compromise between plain vanilla and a mocha-chile-coconut surprise is essential. Otherwise, they risk an unpopular flavor and a lot of wasted, expensive cake.

Some couples shy away from more adventur-ous cakes because they fear something chocolately or not white in color will not be well suited to a wedding reception. Such cou-ples should keep in mind that any flavor of cake can be hidden beneath layers of pearly white fondant or royal icing. Therefore, the sky is the limit with regard to flavor combinations.

Those who might want to veer from tradition

Think outside of the cake box when selecting flavors for the centerpiece of the wedding reception.

Explore unique cakeflavor combinations

C A K e

Green Mountain Tent Rental is a family- owned and operated business that specializes in weddings and outdoor events. From the smallest rehearsal dinner to the largest wedding, trust Green Mountain Tent Rentals.SOUTHERN VERMONT’S OUTDOOR EVENT

RENTAL COMPANY.

802-365-7839 OR 800-691-8368Check out our website:

www.greenmtntents.com

Also servicing the New York area.

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 21

can consider these clever cake combinations.

• Lemon cake with vanilla but-tercream: Lemons are tart, juicy and refreshing, helping to cleanse the palate after a rich meal. Lemon cake, with its sum-mery feel, is tailor-made for sum-mer weddings. The flavor is pop-ular enough to appeal to many, but just a little different to add an unexpected zip of flavor.

• Chocolate cake with choco-late gânache and mocha fill-ing: True chocoholics will be hard-pressed to resist such a decadent flavor profile. Chocolate can be sweet and satisfying and a welcome change from the vanilla cakes commonly served. For traditionalists, the cake can be covered with a white choco-late gânache. Or couples can ask that the cake be adorned with white sugar roses for an eye-appealing contrast. Chocolate cakes covered with autumn hued flowers go over well at fall wed-dings.

• Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting: Red velvet cake was once a regionally spe-cific staple, but now has grown steadily in popularity across the country. Red velvet has quickly become the new classic, as its vibrant red coloring offers a shock of something different, while the flavor is mild for those who are not comfortable taking risks. The richness and creami-ness of cream cheese is irresist-ible.

• White cake with chocolate mousse: Couples who want a bit of chocolate but do not want to be overwhelmed can select a white cake that is filled with light and rich chocolate mousse. It’s the perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate for guests who enjoy both.

• Variety tiers: Those who can-not settle on just one flavor can have different flavors on each tier of their cakes. This gives guest some flavorful variety and enables them to pick their favor-

ite flavor combination.

Brides- and grooms-to-be who have specific flavors in mind can ask their bakers to include two cupcakes with the wedding cake. Then the couple can enjoy their own mini cakes while the rest of the guests enjoy a more classic cake. In addition, an assortment of cupcakes in lieu of one cake

can give guests the opportunity to sample several different fla-vors.

Cakes are a part of many special events, but few cakes are fawned over as much as wedding cakes. Couples can spice things up by choosing a nontraditional flavor combination.

C A K e

494 Chestnut Hill Road, Cambridge NY518.677.5552• www.pompanuck.org

The perfect marriagePompanuck Farm a unique and inspiring setting

for your special day

ROUNDHOUSE BAKERY

customized wedding cakes and pastries

22 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

What would a wedding day be with-out flowers? The beauty and the aroma of fresh-cut flowers can

create a welcoming atmosphere and com-plement the beauty and the style of a wed-ding wardrobe. Flowers are often the first things that guests see upon arriving for the ceremony, and they may even be some-thing guests take home at the end of the night. Flowers create an air of romance, and most couples want to make flowers — whether fresh or silk — an integral part of their wedding day.

As with any decision when planning a wed-ding, choosing the right flowers requires some research and a basic knowledge of which flowers will convey the message and the theme of your wedding. The number of colors, textures and combinations that can be created are so numerous that couples may feel the decision on the floral arrange-ments is best left to the florist. But it doesn’t take a lot of expertise to know what you want, and it is important for couples to con-vey their feelings to the florist. Consider these tips when choosing a florist and select-ing flowers.

• Experts advise that a couple start looking for a florist at least six months before the wedding, especially if the wedding will take place during the peak season of May through September. Get recommendations from friends as to which florist they used or find out if your wedding planner or banquet hall manager recom-mends a particular florist. Some catering halls have agreements with florists, and they work together.

• Browse magazines to get ideas of what you like. You also may be able to find a florist through an advertisement or if he or she has been featured in publica-tions. Keep a scrapbook of the colors, types of flowers and arrangements and any other ideas that attract you so you will be able to present this information to the flo-rist.

• Establish your flower budget prior to sitting down with the florist. You should expect to pay at least 8 percent of the total wedding cost on flowers. Get an estimate on the floral arrangement and then tweak your needs according to your budget. Many

florists can modify arrangements and find a middle ground with regard to cost. Selecting flowers that are in-season will result in more affordable rates than if you desire exotic or out-of-season blooms.

• Once you’ve hired the florist, you can come up with a wedding flower work-sheet that establishes all of your needs. The florist may ask for specific information, such as photos of the bride’s gown as well as the colors and styles that the wedding party will be wearing. A good florist knows

that a bouquet should not overpower or detract from the beauty of the bride. The florist may want to mimic textures from the dress, such as beading, with smaller flow-ers or berries within the arrangement. The groom’s boutonniere is traditionally one of the flowers from the bride’s bouquet so that the look is cohesive.

• Ceremony flowers may be traditional, and some houses of worship have strict guidelines as to what can and cannot be used. However, reception flowers can be where you show off your creativity and whimsy. After all, this is a party and it should be fun. You may want to give the florist more freedom of expression with regard to reception centerpieces and flow-ers that adorn other areas of the room.

• Because receptions tend to take place in the evening hours and are often indoor affairs, experts say that added lighting may be needed to put emphasis on the floral centerpieces and help present them in their best light. You may want to think about hiring a lighting design-er to spotlight some areas of the room or at the very least incorporate candlelight into your centerpiece arrangements.

• To give the impression that there are more flowers than there really are, use fragrance and filler as your tools. Fragrant flowers can fill up the room with a

Tips for selecting wedding day flowers

Though many couples still tie the knot

in traditional religious ceremonies

officiated by a minister, priest, rabbi

or other religious leader, more couples are

embracing less traditional ceremonies that

can be officiated by secular officiants.

Humanist weddings, for example, may be

officiated by someone who shares the

same philosophy of life as the bride and/or

groom, and such officials typically have no

religious affiliation. Civil ceremonies are

another type of wedding ceremony for cou-

ples who do not want a traditional religious

wedding. Civil ceremonies are often pre-

sided over by a justice of the peace, politi-

cal official or even a certified notary public.

The rules regarding civil ceremonies vary

from state to state, so couples considering

a civil ceremony should do their homework

before moving forward with any wedding

plans. Couples with different religious

backgrounds who still want a religious cer-

emony may want to consider an interfaith

ceremony that includes traditions from

each faith and may even include religious

leaders from each faith.

Did you know?

F L O W e R S

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 23

welcoming aroma. Look for frangipani, lil-ies, hyacinths, jasmine, and sweet peas for a big impact. Florists know how to stretch arrangements by using greenery and other filler to lend bulk without too much extra cost.

• Experienced florists will know how long it takes certain buds to open and show off their maximum beauty. Therefore, expect a florist to be working on your floral arrangements as much as a

week before the wedding date — pur-chasing containers, cleaning flowers and waiting for certain ones to open fully. Minimize changes close to your wedding date as most things will already be start-ed.

• It is possible to make your own cen-terpieces or bouquets if you so desire. Simplicity will work best for the novice. Think about grouping similar-hued calla lilies together for a bridal bouquet.

Hydrangea and peonies are larger flowers that can easily fill up a vessel on a table as a centerpiece. White flowers will coor-dinate with any color scheme and could be the easiest to mix and match. White blooms include sweet pea, rose, camellia, stephanotis, narcissus, gardenia, orchid, lily of the valley, jasmine, and gypsophila.

Flowers are one component of the wed-ding that will help achieve the magic and beautiful atmosphere couples desire.

12 West Park PlaceFair Haven, VT802-265-4556www.marblemansioninn.com

Close to dining, skiing, major lakes, Castleton State & Green Mountain Colleges, & golf courses

J o_ib—J kpfl k—FkkMarble Mansion Inn

Rates Include:

Bed & BreakfastRooms from $80 to $140 per night

• Beautiful Spacious Rooms• Free Wi-Fi• New Eurotop Beds

• Gourmet Breakfast • 11 Rooms With Private Baths

Ruby’s Nimble Thimble

81 Main Street • Greenwich, NY 12834518.701.5323

www.rubysnimblethimble.com

EXPERT ALTERATIONS FOR THE WHOLE BRIDAL PARTY

Horse Drawn Carriage or Wagon Ride

Call to discuss Dates, Times and Rates518-642-2902

or Cell 802-558-0409348 County Route 12 • Granville, NY

WEDDING TIME EXPERIENCE

Make Your Special Daya Memorable Occasion

with a

Owned and operated by Merrit & Heidi Bruce

Parties Weddings

F L O W e R S

24 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

P H O t O g R A P H Y & V I d e O g R A P H Y

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

According to a recent survey con-ducted by online media companies The Knot and Mashable, 1 in 3 brides update their relationship sta-tus on Facebook within hours of their engagement. And an online spread of engagement photos usually fol-lows.

“I think that people’s style has improved and their expectations have heightened because of Pinter-

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

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

“For us, style means real, authen-tic, genuine moments,” says Kristyn Hogan, a Nashville, Tenn.-based photographer. “The ability to look at a photograph and remember what it felt like to be there, to feel a connec-tion with the moment and the memo-ry, that’s what we always strive for and that’s what our brides come to

us for.”Many of today’s brides are turning

to themes and creative story lines in their engagement and wedding pho-tography to create memorable, standout images.

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

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

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 25

Vernon & Ruth Scribner

55 Beckett RoadWhitehall, NY 12887

518-499-0349

The Sweetest Wedding Ever.Maple SyrupCream Candy

Retail & Wholesale

Scribner Maple

10014 State Route 4, Whitehall, NY

518-499-0033

FLOWERS TO FIT ANY BUDGET & STYLE.

www.SkenesboroughGardens.net

SKENESBOROUGHSKENESBOROUGHGARDENSGARDENS

132 Broadway, Whitehall, NY • 518-499-0603

JOE’S PIZZACATERING

YOUR MENU OR OURS!

BIG FOOT

JOE’S SPARE CHANGE & BOTTLE REDEMPTION

WINE & LIQUOR

HOURS: Thurs 10-4, Fri 11-5, Sat 10-4, Sun 9-3

Favors . . . Candles, Themed Cookie Cutters,

Foil Wrapped Chocolates, Gourmet Candy Bars & Truffles,

Cookie Bouquets, Gift BasketsHome Decor & More!

209 Broadway, Whitehall, NYNext to Lucia’s Restaurant!

KAZ’SPizza& Deli

185 BroadwayWhitehall, NY

518-499-1000

• Wings • Pizza • Salads • Calzones • Breakfast Pizza

& SandwichesAll your favorite cold beverages too!

READY TO GOPIZZA!ALL DAY - EVERY DAY!

84 Broadway, Whitehall, NY 12887518-499-0728

DEBITcarolscollectibles.biz

SHOW YOUR BRIDEZILLA YA LOVE HER!

Wedding Party Gifts, Too!Quality Sterling & Platinum Over Sterling

Rings & Jewelry with Beautiful Gemstones

The Sweetest Wedding Ever.Maple SyrupCream Candy

Retail & Wholesale

Scribner Maple

SKENESBOROUGHSKENESBOROUGHGARDENSGARDENS

JOE’S SPARE CHANGE & BOTTLE REDEMPTION

Favors . . . Candles, Themed Cookie Cutters,

Foil Wrapped Chocolates, Gourmet Candy Bars & Truffles,

Cookie Bouquets, Gift BasketsHome Decor & More!

• Wings • Pizza • Salads • Calzones • Breakfast Pizza

& SandwichesAll your favorite cold beverages too!

READY TO GO

84 Broadway, Whitehall, NY 12887518-499-0728

carolscollectibles.biz

SHOW YOUR BRIDEZILLA YA LOVE HER!

The Sweetest Wedding Ever.Maple SyrupCream Candy

Retail & Wholesale

Scribner Maple

SKENESBOROUGHSKENESBOROUGHGARDENSGARDENS

JOE’S SPARE CHANGE & BOTTLE REDEMPTION

Favors . . . Candles, Themed Cookie Cutters,

Foil Wrapped Chocolates, Gourmet Candy Bars & Truffles,

Cookie Bouquets, Gift BasketsHome Decor & More!

• Wings • Pizza • Salads • Calzones • Breakfast Pizza

& SandwichesAll your favorite cold beverages too!

READY TO GO

84 Broadway, Whitehall, NY 12887518-499-0728

DEBITcarolscollectibles.biz

SHOW YOUR BRIDEZILLA YA LOVE HER!

Wedding Party Gifts, Too!Quality Sterling & Platinum Over Sterling

Rings & Jewelry with Beautiful Gemstones

The Sweetest Wedding Ever.Maple SyrupCream Candy

Retail & Wholesale

Scribner Maple

10014 State Route 4, Whitehall, NY

518-499-0033

FLOWERS TO FIT ANY BUDGET & STYLE.

www.SkenesboroughGardens.net

SKENESBOROUGHSKENESBOROUGHGARDENSGARDENS

JOE’S SPARE CHANGE & BOTTLE REDEMPTION

Favors . . . Candles, Themed Cookie Cutters,

Foil Wrapped Chocolates, Gourmet Candy Bars & Truffles,

Cookie Bouquets, Gift BasketsHome Decor & More!

• Wings • Pizza • Salads • Calzones • Breakfast Pizza

& SandwichesAll your favorite cold beverages too!

READY TO GO

84 Broadway, Whitehall, NY 12887518-499-0728

carolscollectibles.biz

SHOW YOUR BRIDEZILLA YA LOVE HER!

26 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

As any holiday host can attest, timing is crucial to getting a meal out hot and ensuring each course is ready for the table. Timing is equally important when planning a wedding. Various

elements must come together in the right order to create a seamless day for couples and guests alike.

In addition to organizing floral deliveries, ensuring the wedding party arrives on time, and getting hair and makeup done promptly, couples who will be having their ceremony in a different location from the reception will need to spend more time factoring timing into their wedding day equations. Factors like traveling to and from the site, as well as hunger pangs and potential weather-related complications, will need to be considered.

Many couples choose to have their ceremonies and receptions at the same site, a decision that makes scheduling much easier. Once the ceremony is over, guests simply go inside or to another area of the grounds to begin the reception. Some traditionalists, though, pre-fer to have their ceremony in a place of worship and then travel to a separate reception location afterward. Both scenarios are accept-

able, but the latter option requires a little more planning.

Couples will need to know when the church or temple is available for the ceremony and when the reception hall will be open to guests. Some weddings are held after daily masses or other religious cere-monies. An afternoon wedding may end a few hours before the cocktail hour begins at the reception site, leaving guests with time to kill before the reception.

Couples can try to remove as much time between the reception and ceremony as possible by coordinating with their catering managers. If finances allow, couples can request the wedding reception begin early. This way guests can arrive at the cocktail hour and comfortably mingle among themselves. These requests are common, and many catering managers will be happy to meet requests to keep a bride and groom’s business.

Careful timing makes weddingsgo off without a hitch

P L A N N I N g

Conferences and Events | (802) 468-6039

[email protected]

Castleton

LET US PLAN YOUR SPECIAL EVENT!

he Castleton Pavilion is an

open-air wedding venue (or

enclosed during inclement

weather) for couples dreaming

of an outdoor wedding. he

pavilion provides views of the

Green Mountains and can

comfortably accommodate 300

guests and can be expanded

for up to 1000.

MEMORIES FORA LIFETIME

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 27

If this is not possible, couples have a few alternatives. If the recep-tion site is a good distance away, the travel there may take up the idle time. Otherwise, the bride and groom may need to come up with another plan. In some instances, a family member opens his or her home up to some of the guests, who may enjoy light refreshments. It may be possible to use a cafeteria or gathering space at the cere-mony site for a little while as well. If the photographer plans to take outdoor photos between the ceremony and reception, the couple can invite some guests along to witness the shots or be a part of the photo shoot.

Thoughtful couples also can provide other accommodations, such as

letting guests know about local restaurants where they can spend a little time and grab a small bite to eat before the reception begins. Hotels affiliated with the wedding party may be able to host guests during these in-between hours as well. The hotel bar or a conference room might be ideal spots for guests to kill some time.

Couples also can arrange something with the reception hall. While the party room or cocktail area may not be ready until the designat-ed time, the site may have an attached restaurant, salon or gardens, where guests can relax as they wait for the start of the festivities.

Timing all of the elements of a wedding day properly can be chal-lenging. Guests’ comfort and needs should always be a priority.

P L A N N I N g

A beautiful B&B nestled in the woods and meadows of Washington County.Featuring a full country breakfast and gracious hospitality.

412 Bunker Hill RoadSalem, NY 12865

518-854-9339Proprietor: Laura Coldwell

THEBUNKER HILL INN

GIFT CERTIFICATESGIFT CERTIFICATESAVAILABLE!AVAILABLE!

www.bunkerhillinn.com

Schedule your POTTERY BRIDAL FAVOR MAKING

PARTY now!

Get together withfamily and friends tomake unique favors.

Call Caren for party details

802-265-2145647 Rte 4A East, Fair Haven VT

Bridal Registrywww.pizzazzpottery.com

GUEST FAVORS HANDCRAFTED IN VERMONT

Variety of colors & styles available with personalization or come and make your own

Call or visit our studio to register your Pizzazz Pottery gift choices

Talk ToTalk ToUs First!Us First!

Exceptional Value on Hall Rental!With catering available

20 to 200 people

American Legion Post 50PO Box 355, Bomoseen, VT • 802-468-8962

Contact Greg Knapp Sr.

Wedding Receptions • Private Parties • Social EventsRound Tables • Sizable Dance Floor • Outside Pavilion

28 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Music often plays an important role on festive occasions, and wedding days are no exception. The right

music can make a wedding day that much more meaningful, while the wrong music

can make a couple’s big event memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Though music selection might seem like one of the easier decisions couples must make, those about to tie the knot typically must make a host of music-related deci-sions regarding their wedding day, includ-ing whether to choose a live band or a deejay to perform at their wedding recep-tions. While the reception is when music might be most on display, couples plan-ning their weddings must think beyond the reception when setting the musical tones for their weddings.

Ceremony

The ceremony itself often sets the tone for a couple’s wedding day. A beach wedding, for example, often creates a laid back atmosphere, while a ceremony held in a

large church or temple often sets a more formal tone. Music played during the cere-mony also goes a long way toward setting the tone couples hope to establish.

When choosing music for the ceremony, couples should first consider the venue where they are tying the knot. Some, such as houses of worship, may have rules per-taining to what can and cannot be played inside the venue. Classical, hymnal or pro-cessional music often makes the best fit when weddings are taking place in more formal venues. Outdoor weddings tend to give couples more leeway. But in general couples don’t want to choose any music that’s too loud or over-the-top for their cer-emonies.

Keep in mind that while the music played during the ceremony can set the tone for the day, this music can vary significantly from the music played during the recep-tion. A favorite performer may not be appropriate during the ceremony, but that doesn’t mean the couple can’t dance to that artist’s music during the reception.

Live musicians can add a more elegant feel to the ceremony, but such performers also can be costly. Playing prerecorded

How to approach musicon your wedding day

M u S I C

www.colgatepark.com

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 29

Call 800-354-4232 to advertise in the

Perfect Wedding 2015

music may not be as elegant as having a live performer, but it can cost a lot less and still make for an enjoyable day and evening.

Reception

Many couples prefer deejays to live bands for their wedding receptions. Deejays can play favorite songs as couples and their guests know them, while bands can only play their own renditions of those songs.

Another thing to consider when choosing between a deejay or live band for the reception is the venue itself. Some venues are smaller and unable to accommodate a full band, while others may not have ideal acoustics, making it diffi-cult for a live band to sound as good as they might in a more music-friendly environment.

The formality of the event should also come into consid-eration when choosing

between a live band or a dee-jay for the reception. Deejays spinning the latest top 40 hits may stick out like sore thumbs at especially formal weddings, while a classical orchestra like-ly won’t fit into the laid back theme of a beach or destina-tion wedding.

Couples tying the knot out-doors may need to consider equipment when choosing bands or deejays to play their weddings. For example, some venues do not provide equip-ment, such as microphones and speaker systems, to cou-ples for their ceremonies. Renting such equipment can be costly, but couples can often skirt such charges by hir-ing deejays or bands who lend couples their equipment during the ceremony. Deejays or bands who will loan and set up the necessary sound equip-ment for outdoor ceremonies merit extra consideration.

When discussing music to be

played during the reception, couples must consider their own musical tastes as well as those of their guests. A wide range of popular music tends to go best at wedding recep-tions, as guests are more likely to dance to songs they recog-nize. Avoid any music that has the potential to offend guests, opting for lighter, happier tunes instead. Whether hiring a band

or deejay, couples should make a list of no-play songs or artists and make sure that such lists are included in their contracts.

Music plays an important role on couples’ wedding days. Though choosing music for the ceremony and the reception is often fun, couples must take such decisions seriously.

M u S I C

References available.

730 LAKE ROADBENSON, VT

802-537-2755OPEN DAILY

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Invite us to yourwedding and

cater to you.Real casual

comfortable food. Together

create a menu that fits your taste and

your budget.

Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday noon to 4pm April through December

For information, call Skene Manorduring open hours at 518-499-1906

or after hours at 518-499-2053

8 Potters Terrace, Whitehall, NY

Offering free tours of the castle.Visit the gift shop

and tearoom for lunch.

“Castle on the Mountain”

Available for private functions and celebrations.Special events arranged.

Skene Manor

30 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Gentlemen getting ready to tie the knot will have to make certain wardrobe

choices so they look their best on their big days. Although many grooms-to-be rent tuxedos on their wedding days, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a tuxedo.

Tuxedos are the ultimate formal wear for men. Worn at formal gatherings like proms, weddings and lavish parties, tuxedos have undergone several style changes over the years. Men interested in looking polished will find no option makes that impression more convincingly than the right tuxedo.

Men frequently called upon to attend formal events may find purchasing a tuxedo is a wise investment. There are several

advantages to owning a tux rath-er than renting one time and again. Tuxedos typically cost around $1,000, whereas renting tuxedos can be $200 or more each time, making it advanta-geous for men who frequently don tuxedos to purchase their own rather than rent.

Another advantage to owning a tuxedo is the opportunity to wear a tux that is custom-made and tailored just for you. Instead of a rental that will merely be stitched temporarily to fit your measure-ments, a tuxedo you purchase will be tailored specifically to your body, increasing comfort and making you look better as well.

Men who buy their own tuxedos also can choose the style, fabric, color, buttons, accessories, and type of lapels on the jacket. A tux-edo store may have more styles available for sale than for rent. If you desire something that fits your personality and your phy-sique perfectly, buying your own tuxedo may be your best bet.

Men worried about purchasing a tuxedo only to see their waistlines increase or decrease should keep in mind that many tuxedo shops offer free tailoring for as long as you own the tuxedo.

When purchasing a tuxedo, men should choose classic styles and colors so they can enjoy the tux for years to come. Opt for a slim-fitting white shirt underneath that won’t billow out when jackets are removed. Men who want to break

from tradition can opt for a shirt that is a pale blue or light gray to wear under the jacket. This is still an understated look, but one with a hint of creativity.

A classic, black bow tie is an ideal match when purchasing a more classic tuxedo. The bow tie is back in a big way, and men who want to spice things up can purchase more traditional neck-ties for those occasions when they don’t want to wear bow ties.

Tuxedos come with different lapel

styles, and it’s important to know the differences. Today’s most pop-ular style is the notch lapel, wherein a triangular indentation is cut where the lapel joins the col-lar. This lapel mimics the shape of a classic suit. A peak lapel is the quintessential classic, featuring a broad, V-shaped lapel that points up and out just below the collar line. A shawl lapel is a smooth, rounded edge lapel. The shawl lapel reached the height of its popularity in the 1950s, but it can still look good today.

Tuxedo purchasing pointers

The origins of the mod-ern tuxedo remains a topic for debate, but

one of the more widely known tales of the tuxedo’s beginning traces this classic look to a wealthy tobacco magnate of the 19th century. Pierre Lorillard lived with his family in a residential colony called Tuxedo Park, which was roughly 40 miles north-west of New York City. The Lorillards were popular in social circles, and Pierre helped establish the area as a prime hunting and fishing destination. Lorillard also developed a social organi-zation called the Tuxedo

Club, which regularly hosted balls. At the time, men wore dinner jackets with long tails to formal events. However, Lorillard wanted something different and modern, and he commissioned a tailless black jacket to wear to the Tuxedo Club’s Autumn Ball. Lorillard got cold feet in time for the ball and did not wear the shorter jacket. However, his son, Griswold, did wear the short jacket and received much praise. Soon the style was copied and worn in var-ious social circles across the country. The “tuxedo” was born, and soon became a timeless classic.

Tuxedo history

L O O K I N g g O O d

AFFORDABLE HALL RENTAL

200 CAPACITYWeddings • Showers

Family Gatherings • Fundraisers

FULL KITCHEN • BAR • PLENTY OF PARKING

Custom attendants’ gifts.

Planning A Wedding?

PRECIOUSMETAL

DESIGNS

Also Mother’s Day & Graduation gifts available

Handmade Wedding Bands.

Coordinate giftsto wedding colors.

Hours 9AM-5PM Mon-Fri OBA • 518.854.323791 East Broadway, Salem NY 12865

www.timsheajewelry.com

Battery Replacement Available

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 31

Being chosen as a best man or a maid of honor is a significant and meaningful honor. Those roles have

evolved over the years, but these special participants must still perform some of the traditional duties of the past, including serving as the official witnesses to the cer-emony. The following is a rundown of the various duties maids of honor and best men are now expected to handle once they’re chosen for these distinguished hon-ors.

Prior to the wedding

Before the wedding takes place, the maid of honor will closely assist the bride-to-be with many of the important decisions relat-ed to the look and the feel of the wedding. She typically accompanies the bride to dress shops to select gowns for the bride and bridesmaids. Much in the same man-ner, the best man will assist the groom-to-

be with choosing tuxedoes or suits and also with coordinating with the ushers to ensure they know when to go for fittings.

Although the best man will serve as a sounding board for the groom, traditionally the bride and her bridesmaids have taken on the majority of the wedding planning, so the maid of honor can expect to play a larger role than the best man. The maid of honor may be asked to delegate certain assignments, such as helping to find wed-ding vendors or addressing invitations. She may go with the bride for makeup and hair-style trials. Together with the bridesmaids, she will plan a bridal shower party and a bachelorette excursion. She may select a wedding gift for the couple and present it on behalf of all the wedding attendants.

The best man will coordinate the bachelor party and may be asked to assist the groom with selecting a honeymoon site or to come along to book the trip.

Wedding day

On the day of the wedding, the maid of honor and the best man will act as a sup-port system for the bride and groom. The maid of honor will help the bride get dressed and help iron out any mini-emer-gencies that should crop up. The best man will help ensure all of the ushers are dressed and get the groom to the wedding on time.

During the ceremony, the maid of honor will hold the bride’s bouquet while she par-ticipates in the wedding. The best man will keep the rings safe until they are needed. The maid of honor also will help adjust the

bride’s train and veil as she sits and stands during the ceremony. Both will sign the marriage certificate as witnesses.

At the reception, the best man is expected to give a toast and the maid of honor may share some words as well. She also may accompany the bride to the restroom and assist her with managing the gown.

After the wedding

The best man will be in charge of returning the tuxedoes to the rental shop, if neces-sary. He also may drive the newly married couple to the airport so they can depart on their honeymoon.

The maid of honor will assist the bride in changing out of her gown and into her trav-el clothes. Oftentimes the maid of honor takes the gown to the cleaners in the days following the ceremony so the dress can be preserved.

Roles of the best manand maid of honor

B e S t M A N | M A I d O F H O N O R

From this day forward...

It’s your wedding day, and Boneyard Restaurant and BBQ is commited

to your vision. Tailored menus Specialty foods Remarkable level of service Outstanding presentation

Boneyard Restaurant and BBQ | Greenwich, NY | (518) 538-9535 | [email protected]

Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your wedding day needs.

32 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Toasting the bride and groom at a wed-ding reception is a responsibility that typically falls on the shoulders of the

bride’s father as well as the best man and the maid of honor. Though it is an honor to give a wedding toast, it also can be nerve-wracking, as no one wants to give a toast that’s memo-rable for all the wrong reasons.

While the best toasts are often those that veer off the beaten path, coming from the heart rather than from a how-to guide found on the Internet, there is a certain formula men and women can follow to ensure their toasts cover all of the appropriate bases with-out offending the bridal party or fellow guests.

• Acknowledge the guests. Families are more geographically diverse than ever before, so more and more weddings host guests who come from far and wide to celebrate with

happy couples on their wedding days. It’s customary for men and women making wed-ding toasts to acknowledge the guests, thank-ing them for being there. This is often a great way for best men and maids of honor to break the ice and calm their nerves, especial-ly at larger weddings where they may only know a small percentage of the guests. When thanking the guests, be sure to thank the par-ents of the bride and groom as well.

• Explain your relationship to the bride and/or groom. Best men and maids of honor should devote a portion of their toasts to explaining their personal relationships with the bride and/or groom. Introduce yourself and explain how you met the bride or groom. Oftentimes, such stories have a comical twist that can further calm your nerves.

• Aim for a jovial toast. Wedding toasts are

typically given at the wedding reception, when guests and the bridal party are ready to celebrate. Such an atmosphere lends itself to a jovial toast wherein best men and maids of honor focus on happy times with the bride and groom. Tell a funny anecdote that illus-trates the special bond you have with the bride or groom. When choosing a story to tell, remember to keep things appropriate for guests of all ages, including young children.

• Steer clear of alcohol before giving your toast. Many people overindulge in alcohol at wedding receptions, but best men and maids of honor should avoid consuming alcohol until after they have toasted the bride and groom. Horror stories about drunken, inappropriate wedding toasts may seem more like an urban legend than a legitimate possibility, but the tendency for alcohol to lower people’s inhibi-tions makes it dangerous for men and women to consume it before giving their toasts.

• Give your best wishes to the bride and groom before raising your glass. Raising your glass to toast the bride and groom is often the last step before your toasting duties officially end. But before you raise your glass, remember to offer your best wishes to both the bride and groom. Once those sentiments have been expressed, ask the guests to raise their glasses and toast the newlyweds.

Toasting happy couples at their wedding receptions can be stressful for best men and maids of honor who are unaccustomed to speaking in front of large groups of people. But following a certain formula and speaking from the heart will ensure such toasts go off without a hitch.

Tips when toasting the bride and groom

t H e t O A S t

Penguin ProductionsPenguin ProductionsProfessional Friendly DJ’s - John & Cheri

(802) 345-0313 (John)(802) 345-0313 (John)

• Wedding Specialists• FREE Wedding packet• Complete library of music

on MP3• Any Occasion - Karaoke,

lights available• DVDs of your Wedding or

Anniversary photos withmusic and special effects

“Have a really cool time!”

(802) 744-4898 (Cheri)(802) 744-4898 (Cheri)

Weddings and Eventsvermontbandoflove.com

Contact Jay at [email protected] • 802-275-7307

� �

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 33

Few events are more pho-tographed than weddings. Needless to say, wedding

participants, from brides and grooms to the couples’ parents, hope to look their best for the celebrations. Women often find that well applied cosmetics can enhance their beauty and help ensure they are picture-perfect.

The key to wedding makeup is finding a balance between application that will come across well in person and will look good in photographs. Professional makeup art-ists may understand just how heavy a hand to use to apply makeup, but the novice do-it-yourselfer may need some instruc-tion to master wedding day makeup.

Very often the key to wed-ding makeup is simplicity. Brides want their best fea-tures enhanced and have the makeup add to their beauty rather than out-shine it. Brides want guests to notice their faces and gowns and not their makeup. Here are some other tips brides can employ in an effort to put their best faces forward.

• Begin preparations a few days prior to the wedding. If you will be enhancing your skin color with a spray-tan, do so at least two days prior to the wed-ding. By the third day the color will set and appear more natu-ral. The same idea applies to your brows. Tweezing, waxing and threading can create irrita-tion and redness. Have your brows professionally shaped a few days before the wedding and then do a minor touch-up with your tweezer the night before. This allows your skin to recover and redness to dissi-pate.

• Start out with well hydrated and moisturized skin. Apply a

few layers of moisturizer, pref-erably one with an SPF if you will be spending time out in the sun. When the moisturizer is completely absorbed and dry, use a skin priming product that will help keep your foundation locked into place.

• Match your foundation color to your natural skin color. When these colors don’t match, your face may look like it is a separate shade from your neck and decolletage. If you will be tanning, then find a

shade that matches the tanned color. A foundation that has slightly yellow undertones will even out redness on the face and look better in photos. Apply the foundation thoroughly with a sponge or brush and be sure to blend it well at your neckline. Set the foundation with a matte powder.

• Apply concealer to red spots or undereye circles after the foundation. Aim for a creamy, emollient concealer for under the eyes. A peach color that will contrast with the purple and blue tones of your eyelids. Putting on the concealer after the foundation means you will probably need less and won’t look like you’re caked with product.

• Use an eyebrow pencil or powder to fill in your brows.

This is a must for your wedding day and can really help to frame your eyes. Use small, light flicks of the pencil rather than long strokes to make the color blend naturally. Use a brush to blend in further. Always go a shade or two light-er than your natural color. Finish with a gel that will set the hairs into place.

• Complement your lips and eyes. Many brides like to play up their eyes on their wedding days. If you are going for a dra-

matic eye, opt for a more neu-tral lip, and vice versa. Otherwise, you may look like you’re wearing stage makeup. Neutral colors look best for weddings and will not appear dated in photos. Stick to subtle browns and taupes for univer-sal flattery on most eye colors. Use a light hand to apply a neutral shade of light shadow all over the lid. Apply a medium brown to the crease of the eye and a darker brown to the very outer corner, and blend thor-oughly. A very light shade of shadow can be used directly under the browline and toward the inside of the eye to make eyes appear wide and bright. Stick with matte shades of eye shadow, with the exception of one pearlescent shade that is lightly dusted right in the center of the lid from the lashline to

the crease. This will add just a touch of luster to catch the light and make eyes sparkle.

• Apply liner before mascara, and blend it with a brush. Push the liner into the lashline to make lashes appear thicker. Use mascara to lengthen lash-es. Place a makeup sponge behind your lashes when applying mascara so you don’t risk hitting your lids with the mascara wand. If you will be using false lashes, apply them now. Err on the shorter side for

fake lashes, and cut them as needed to fit your eye. Lashes that are too long or full may appear car-toonish and can be uncomfortable to wear. Connect your lashes together with the false ones with another applica-tion of mascara. Waterproof mascara will hold up through tears of joy.

• Be subtle with blush. Use subtle blush in a peach-pink color to achieve that blushing

bride appearance. Smile and apply the blush only to the apples of your cheeks.

• Choose a long-lasting lip color that will hold up through kisses and smiles. Lip stains work very well, as they provide that hint of color but wear well during the day.

Another helpful tip is to perform a practice run prior to the wed-ding, taking some photographs to see how the makeup looks in pictures. Cameras and flash-es can wash out makeup, so sometimes you need to apply just a little bit more than usual for it to show up on film. Also, certain makeup products will reflect light more. Don’t forget to stock up on oil-blotting papers to touch up your face during the day.

Makeup tips forbrides and bridesmaids

M A K e u P

34 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Unplug

& Recharge

Really?

After a year of planning and thou-

sands of dollars spent on the wedding

and now the honeymoon, you’re going to

decompress by … checking in on Face-

book?

According to a joint survey by The

Knot.com and Mashable.com, two-thirds

of brides consider logging onto their

social sites during their honeymoon.

Don’t.

In fact, if you can, curb the urge alto-

gether by uninstalling your Facebook,

Twitter and Pinterest apps from your

phone and tablet before you leave for

your ’moon. You worked hard to get to

this point, so take the time to enjoy the

post-nuptial bliss with your new spouse,

not a screen.

After all, a honeymoon, while always

deserved, does not come cheap! The

average cost of a honeymoon in 2012

was nearly $5,000, according to Brides

magazine’s 2012 American Wedding

Study: Travel Edition, up from just over

$3,500 in 2011. The takeaway? At the

end of the wedding journey, couples are

investing in themselves.

“A honeymoon is something that a

couple can share together and look back

on 20 or 30 years down the road,” Brides

travel editor Jacqueline Gifford says.

“They’re spending money/investing in

creating a memory that will last a life-

time, rather than a material object that

they’ll be over in two years.”

Watch Point Inn & Cottages

Watch Point Road, Shoreham, VermontVRBO.com VT Lake Champlain

Addison#47382 #451397

For Beautiful, Small, Lakeside, IntimateWeddings, Showers and Family Reunions

• Scenic Lake Champlain

• Professional Photographer& Catering On Premises

• Accomodations for Guests

802-353-6188 or 802-897-5122

• Cottage Rentals: The Golden Eagle sleeps 7,The Osprey sleeps up to 9, and The Blue Heron sleeps 6.

• Main House Room Rental

Everything ForThe Newlyweds...

HousewaresSmall Appliances

Clocks • Pots & PansGift Items • Gift Certificates

Main Street, Poultney, VT • www.truevalue.com/williams800-639-3680 OR 802-287-5791

Free Gift Wrapping

H O N e Y M O O N

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 35

A h o n e y m o o n

should be the

trip of a lifetime

for both partners, full of

romance and relaxation

after months of planning

a wedding. But so many

expectations are built into

a honeymoon that it can

become somewhat of a dis-

appointment. Here are

some common honeymoon

pitfalls and misconcep-

tions and how to avoid

them:

1. Be honest with each other. If you go along with

your mate's destination

choice to appease him or

her, it can lead to quarrels

and resentment later on.

Instead, choose a honey-

moon together. If you

want a beach and he wants

museums, pick a location

that offers both.

2. Don't expect non-stop romance. It will take

time to wind down from

all of the wedding excite-

ment, so make fun and

relaxation a priority

instead.

3. Don't exhaust your-

self by doing too much. Hopping across Europe in

a week is recipe for stress.

A better idea is to spend

the first few days relaxing,

then explore the sites and

cities.

4. Don't forget your sense of humor. Honeymoons occur in the

real world where waiters

spill soup and luggage gets

lost. Laugh through the

bumps and bruises and

you will get your marriage

off on the right foot.

5. It's okay to be apart from your partner. Scout

out the local cafes or col-

lect shells along the beach

while your new spouse

naps or sunbathes at the

pool.

6. Bring along some extra funds. Even if you're

going to an all-inclusive

resort, be prepared for on-

site expenses like interna-

tional phone calls, gift

shop items and laundry ser-

vice.

7. Tell hotel staff that you're honeymooners. They may offer cham-

pagne, invite you to a new-

lyweds' cocktail party or

even upgrade you to a

suite.

8. Don't keep just to yourselves. Other honey-

mooners might key you

into hidden treasures, such

as a romantic restaurant or

a secluded cove not men-

tioned in the tourist manu-

al.

9. Remember to take out vacation insurance. It

will protect you if you

must cancel your trip or if

you can't travel due to

weather or illness.

How to keep your honeymoon romantic

Keep these

tips in mind

1. Be honest2. Be realistic3. Relax4. Laugh5. You can be alone6. Splurge a little7. Tell people8. Meet people9. Be cautious

36 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 37

18 to 12 months before wedding

q Announce engagementq Decide budget and choose site of ceremonyq Reserve your date at location

12 to six months before

q 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 before

q Compile guest list

q Order invitations, thank you notes

and

personal stationery

q Plan honeymoon trip (don’t forget

passports if necessary)

q Order rings

q Select bridal registry

Three months

q 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 months

q Address and mail wedding invitations

q Arrange to get marriage license

q Arrangements for out-of-town guests

q Contact local newspaper for wedding

announcement

One month

q Arrange for final fitting on all gownsq Make appointments for hair, makeup and manicureq Have wedding portrait takenq Confirm arrangements with band or DJq Confirm arrangements with photographer, videographerq Confirm honeymoon reservationsq Final consultation with locationq Make rehearsal dinner reservationsq Write thank-you notes as gifts are receivedq Change name on legal documents

Two weeks

q Arrange to move belongings to new homeq Arrange seating plan for reception with place cardsq Pick up wedding ringsq Pick up all gownsq Pick up honeymoon tickets

Five days

q Call your photographer, videographer and band or D.J. q Begin packing for honeymoon q Purchase traveler’s 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

One day before

q Pick up men’s formal wearq Attend rehearsal dinnerq Rehearsal

q Present gifts to attendants

Check your luggage

Keep to a schedule for smooth sailing

38 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

DinnerwareChina Pattern:

Casual Pattern:

Service For:

q Dinner Plate

q Salad/Dessert Plate

q Bread and Butter Plate

q Accent Plate

q Teacup & Saucer

q Coffee Cup & Saucer

q Demitasse Cup

q Coffee Mug

q Soup/Cereal Bowl

q Rim Soup Bowl

q Cream-Soup Bowl & Stand

q Serving Platter

q Fruit Saucers

q Salad Bowl

q Eggcup

q Buffet Plate

q Dessert Set

q Serving Bowl

q Covered Vegetable

q Salt & Pepper Set

q Butter Dish

q Cream & Sugar

q Gravy/Sauce Boat

q Quiche Dish

q Souffle Dish

q Candlesticks

q Salad Bowl

q Napkin Rings

q Other:

FlatwareSilver Pattern:

Stainless Pattern:

Quantity:

q Dinner Fork

q Salad/Dessert Fork

q Dinner Knife

q Soup Spoon

q Tea/Dessert Spoon

q Butter Spreader

q Fish Service

q Cocktail Fork

q Steak Knives

q Cream-Soup Spoon

q Iced-Beverage Spoon

q Demitasse Spoon

q Serving Spoon

q Pierced Spoon

q Serving Fork

q Cold-Meat Fork

q Tomato/Flat Server

q Gravy/Sauce Ladle

q Pie Server

q Cake Knife

q Sugar Spoon/Tong

q Butter/Pastry Knife

q Lemon Fork

q Carving Set

q Salad Servers

q Pasta Server

q Silver Chest

q Other:

Barware/entertainment

Manufacturer:

Pattern:

q Ice Bucket

q Cocktail Glass

q Highball Glass

q Old-Fashioned Glass

q Beer Mug

q Pilsner Glass

q Brandy Snifter

q Sherry Glass

q Liqueur Glass

q Irish-Coffee Glass

q Wine Cooler

q Decanter

q Bar Pitcher

q Punch Bowl Set

q Corkscrew/Opener

q Jigger/Bar Tools

q Wine Rack

q Coasters

q Wine/Spirits

q Other:

GlasswareFormal Pattern:

Casual Pattern:

Quantity:

q Goblet

q Red-Wine Glass

q White-Wine Glass

q All-Purpose Wineglass

q Champagne Flute

q Champagne Saucer

q Iced-Beverage Glass

q Fruit-juice Glass

q Other:

Home equipment /electronics

q Radio/Clock Radio

q Telephone/Answering Machine

q Exercise/Sporting Equipment

q Closet/Storage System

q Iron & Ironing Board

Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014 • 39

estimate$

actual$q Wedding invitations, announcements

q Bride’s dress, accessories

q Groom’s tuxedo

q Mother’s dress

q Father’s tuxedo

q Reception/caterer

q Photographer

q Videographer

q Reception music

q Rehearsal dinner

q Flowers for attendants, ceremony, reception

q Bride’s flowers

q Groom’s boutonniere

q Flowers for mothers

q Gifts for bridesmaids

q Gifts for ushers and best man

q Wedding rings

q Marriage License

q Clergyman’s fee

q Limousine service

Notes:

40 • Manchester Newspapers • Perfect Wedding 2014

Your Perfect Wedding Index of AdvertisersAlterations

Make It Sew ................................................................ 31

Ruby's Nimble Thimble ............................................. 23

Cakes/Desserts

Fancy Pants Cakes ....................................................... 7

Priscilla's Sweet Shoppe ........................................... 16

Round House Bakery ................................................. 21

Catering/Party Platters

American Legion Post 50 .......................................... 27

American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278 ................. 34

Boneyard BBQ ........................................................... 31

Creative Catering ......................................................... 8

East Creek Catering .................................................. 18

Joe's Pizza ................................................................... 25

Kaz's Pizza & Deli ...................................................... 25

Killington Grand Hotel ............................................... 5

Wheel Inn ................................................................... 29

Whitehall Armory ....................................................... 3

Financial Planning

Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union .......................... 26

Floral Arrangements

Everyday Flowers ........................... inside front cover

Gardenworks ............................................................. 16

Mandy's Spring Florist & Nursery .......................... 20

Skenesborough Gardens ........................................... 25

Gifts/Home Decor

As Time Goes By ....................................................... 12

Carol's Collectibles and Antiques ............................ 25

Country Moose ........................................................... 25

Gardenworks .............................................................. 16

Livingston's .................................................................. 9

Pizzazz Pottery ........................................................... 27

Scribner Maple .......................................................... 25

Williams Hardware ................................................... 34

Invitations

QuickPrint of Rutland ................................................ 6

Jewelry

Carol's Collectibles .................................................... 25

Timothy Shea ............................................................. 30

Waldron and Rhodes ................................................... 7

Music/Entertainment

Jay Cook Music .......................................................... 32

Penguin Productions ................................................. 32

Wishes ......................................................................... 36

Photography

At The Woods Studio ................................................. 25

Vermont Memories Photobooth ............................... 36

Reception/Lodging/Restaurants

1768 Hubbell Homestead at Colgate Park ................ 28

American Legion Post 49 Fair Haven ...................... 30

American Legion Post 50 Castleton ......................... 27

American Legion Old Saratoga Post 278 ................. 34

Arlington Inn .............................................. back cover

Big Bob's Food Shack ................................................ 17

Boneyard BBQ ........................................................... 31

Bunker Hill Inn .......................................................... 27

Castleton State College ............................................. 26

Fort William Henry ................................................... 15

Franklin Conference Center .................................... 12

Georgian, The ............................................................ 21

Holiday Inn Resort Lake George, The ....................... 1

Killington Grand Hotel, The....................................... 5

Lake George Steamboat Company ............................. 8

Marble Mansion Inn Bed & Breakfast ..................... 23

National Museum of Dance...................................... 28

Pompanuck Farm ...................................................... 21

Pond Mountain Inn ................................................... 19

Skene Manor .............................................................. 29

Watch Point Inn & Cottages ...................................... 34

What's Cookin' ............................................................. 8

Wheel Inn, The ........................................................... 29

White Rocks Inn B&B ................................................ 29

Whitehall Armory ....................................................... 3

Rentals – Tents

Green Mountain Tent Rentals ................................. 20

Tanning

Kokomo's at the Cleaning Center ............................. 11

Transportation

Merritt & Heidi Bruce Carriage Rides .................... 23

Wing Clydesdales .............................inside back cover

Wedding Attire

Danielle’s Bridal ......................................................... 6

Fashion Corner ........................................................... 2

Jonathan Reid LTD .................................................... 11

Make It Sew ................................................................ 31

McNeil & Reedy ......................................................... 17

Wines/Liquors

Big Foot Wine & Liquor ............................................ 25MANCHESTER NEWSPAPERS 2014

Perfect Wedding

Bridal 2015?Would you like your bridal related

business included in our 2015

coming in January 2015?

If so, give Manchester Newspapers

a call today toll-free at 800-354-4232

for details or to reserve space.

Arrive in Style . . .With your choice of a single Clydesdale or team, depending on conditions, your requirements, etc . . .

We Are:• Prompt, courteous, professional• Committed to making your entrance or departure

a dazzling one• Family owned and operated• Fully insured

Our Horses Are:• Superbly groomed• Well socialized

We will accommodate you . . .We can help with special requests.Decorations can be customized to your desire, as can driver attire.

We invite you to make an appointment to visit!

We provide exceptional service for all occasions . . . proms, birthdays, anniversaries, special events . . .

WE SPECIALIZE IN WEDDINGS!

Wing Clydesdales & Horse Farm, LLC215 Truthville Rd • Granville, NY

[email protected] • www.wingclydesdales.com

lydesdalesWCing